Patient Resources

What to Expect at Your First Visit

We want your first visit to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here's what you should know:

Preparing for Your Appointment

Follow these tips to help you get the most out of your visit:

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the affected area
• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse
• Note any previous treatments or therapies you've tried for this condition
• Bring a family member or friend if you'd like support or help remembering information
• Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time

Insurance Information

We accept most major insurance plans and are committed to making orthopedic care accessible. Please bring your insurance card to every visit so we can verify your coverage and benefits.

After Your Visit

Your care doesn't end when you leave our office. Here's what to expect after your appointment:

• Follow all instructions provided by your doctor, including activity restrictions and medication guidance
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments before leaving the office
• If prescribed physical therapy, begin as soon as directed for the best outcomes
• Contact our office if you experience increased pain, swelling, or any concerning symptoms
• Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed
• Access your visit notes, imaging results, and care instructions through our patient portal

New Patient Forms

To streamline your first visit, we encourage new patients to complete intake forms before arriving. Downloadable forms will be available here soon. In the meantime, please arrive 15 minutes early to complete paperwork in our office.

Pre-Operative Instructions

If you are scheduled for surgery, your surgical team will provide you with procedure-specific preparation guides. General pre-operative guidelines include:

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery (unless otherwise instructed)
• Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after the procedure
• Review your current medications with your surgeon — some may need to be stopped before surgery
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of surgery
• Leave jewelry and valuables at home
• Contact our office if you develop any illness (cold, fever, infection) before your scheduled surgery date

Post-Operative Care & Rehabilitation

Recovery is a critical part of your treatment, and we are with you every step of the way. After surgery, your care team will provide detailed recovery instructions specific to your procedure. General post-operative guidance includes:

• Follow all weight-bearing and activity restrictions as directed by your surgeon
• Take prescribed medications as instructed for pain management
• Keep surgical sites clean and dry; follow wound care instructions carefully
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
• Begin physical therapy as soon as your surgeon recommends — early rehabilitation leads to better outcomes

We work closely with trusted physical therapy partners throughout the San Diego area and will coordinate referrals to ensure a smooth transition from surgical care to rehabilitation.

Patient Education Library

We believe informed patients achieve better outcomes. Our education library will feature illustrated articles, anatomy diagrams, and condition-specific resources reviewed by our surgeons to help you understand your injury, your treatment options, and what to expect during recovery.