What to Expect at Your Clinical Orthopaedic Consultation

Visiting an orthopaedic specialist can feel unfamiliar, especially if you are experiencing pain or reduced mobility. Our aim is to make your consultation clear, thorough and reassuring. This guide explains what happens before, during and after your appointment at our private clinic.

Before your appointment

To help us make the most of your consultation, we recommend that you:

  • Bring any referral letters, if applicable
  • Bring copies of previous X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans or reports
  • Prepare a list of your current medications
  • Note your symptoms, including:
    • When they started
    • What makes them better or worse
    • How they affect your daily activities
  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy examination of the affected area

If you have completed a pre-appointment questionnaire, please bring it with you or submit it online in advance.

During your consultation

1. Medical history discussion

Your consultation will begin with a detailed conversation about:

  • Your current symptoms
  • Past injuries or surgeries
  • Medical conditions
  • Medications and allergies
  • Lifestyle factors such as work, sport and activity levels
  • Your expectations and what you wish to achieve

This discussion helps Mr Pavlou understand the full picture, not just the painful area.

2. Physical examination

A focused physical examination will follow. Depending on your symptoms, this may include:

  • Assessing movement and range of motion
  • Checking strength and stability
  • Evaluating joints, muscles and ligaments
  • Observing posture or walking pattern

You will always be informed about what is being examined and why.

3. Review of imaging

If you have had imaging studies such as X-ray, MRI, CT or ultrasound, your specialist will:

  • Review the images with you
  • Explain the findings in clear, understandable terms
  • Discuss how these findings relate to your symptoms

If imaging is required and has not yet been performed, we will arrange this promptly. Mr Pavlou is mindful about organising special scans as they do cost people money, especially if patients are self-funding. He will only organise these tests if they are entirely necessary and add to your clinical management irrespective of your funding status.

4. Diagnosis and treatment plan

At the end of your consultation, your specialist will:

  • Explain your diagnosis
  • Discuss all appropriate treatment options
  • Answer your questions
  • Outline next steps

Treatment options may include:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Medication
  • Injections
  • Lifestyle modification
  • Further investigations
  • Surgical options, if appropriate

In a private clinic setting, you will have the time to fully explore your options and make informed decisions at your own pace.

After your appointment

You may receive:

  • A written summary of your consultation
  • Prescriptions, if needed
  • Referrals for imaging or physiotherapy
  • A surgical information pack, if surgery is recommended

Follow-up appointments can be scheduled as required to monitor your progress.

Frequently asked questions

Will I need surgery?

Most orthopaedic conditions can be treated without surgery. If surgery is recommended, it will only be after careful discussion of benefits, risks and alternatives.

How long will the appointment last?

Initial consultations typically last 20 to 40 minutes, depending on complexity.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes. You are welcome to bring a family member or friend for support.

Our commitment to you

We are committed to:

  • Clear communication
  • Evidence-based care
  • Respect for your concerns
  • Shared decision-making
  • Prompt access to investigations and treatment

If you have any questions before your appointment, please contact our team, we are here to help.