During your initial consultation, your symptoms and a physical examination will be used to determine your diagnosis. Depending on the findings, further tests may be necessary to confirm your diagnosis. Your GP may have already requested these tests. If this is the case, your diagnosis will be made during the initial consultation and treatment may be offered to you there and then.
If non-surgical treatment is possible (medication, insoles, podiatry appointments, etc.), this will be prescribed at the same time.
If surgery is proposed, the instructions and postoperative care will be explained to you in detail. The consultation is also used to explain the benefits and risks of the procedure, that is, the results you can reasonably expect from the operation as well as any possible complications. Ways to prevent complications and how to treat them should they occur will also be explained to you. Finally, the average amount of time you will spend in hospital and will need off work will be discussed and a quote will be provided.
You will then have the option of either going away and considering whether you would like to go ahead with the proposed treatment or booking a date for the procedure there and then. If applicable, prescriptions for your postoperative care will be given to you and an appointment with the anaesthetist will be made for a date a few days or weeks before the procedure.