What you can do

• Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, be sure to ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet or wear loosefitting clothes in the event that you have an imaging exam.
• Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins or supplements that you're taking.
• Take a family member or friend along, if possible. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember all of the information provided to you during an appointment. Someone who accompanies you may remember something that you missed or forgot.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time with your doctor. For a suspected pinched nerve, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or long lasting?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
• I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together?
• Are there any activity restrictions that I need to follow?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.