Booking a private consultation about a spinal problem can feel like a step into the unknown, particularly if you have not seen a specialist before. Knowing what to expect can make the whole process feel far less daunting. In this article I will walk you through what actually happens at a spinal consultation, from the moment you arrive to the plan you leave with.
You do not need a referral to arrange a private consultation, although if you are using private medical insurance, your insurer may ask for a referral letter from your GP, so it is worth checking what they require. It is helpful to bring any previous scans or reports you have, a list of the medications you take, and a short note of when your symptoms began and what makes them better or worse.
The heart of the appointment is a conversation and an examination. I will ask you about your symptoms – where the pain or other sensations are felt, when they started, how they have changed, and how they affect your daily life. This history is genuinely one of the most valuable tools in working out what is going on, so it is worth taking your time over it.
I will then carry out a physical examination, which may involve checking your movement, reflexes, sensation and strength. This helps to identify which structures or nerves are involved and often points clearly to the likely cause.
Not necessarily. An MRI scan is a valuable tool, but it is most useful when the history and examination suggest a specific cause that may need treatment, or where symptoms have not settled as expected. Wear and tear changes are extremely common on scans and do not always explain a person’s symptoms, so I recommend imaging on an individual basis rather than as a matter of routine. If you do need a scan, I will explain why.
Once we have a clear picture, I will explain what is causing your symptoms in plain terms, and we will talk through the options together. For most spinal conditions, the recommendation will be conservative treatment – physiotherapy, pain management, and time. Where surgery is worth considering, I will explain honestly what it would involve, what it can and cannot achieve, and what happens if you choose to wait.
My aim is for you to leave with a clear understanding of your problem and a plan you feel comfortable with, rather than feeling rushed towards any particular course of action.
I offer private spinal consultations in Cambridge at the Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital and Nuffield Health Cambridge, as well as at Harley Street in London. If you would like to arrange an appointment, my private secretary can help with the practical arrangements and answer any questions about what to expect. You can read more about my spinal surgery in Cambridge.
