Arthritis evaluation

During your appointment, a MinuteClinic provider will ask about your medical history and conduct a physical exam. They may also order laboratory or imaging tests as needed and offer treatment recommendations. They may also refer you to a specialist if needed for additional testing and treatment.

1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

A variety of factors can cause arthritis symptoms. These include:

• Injury: Injuries to joints are common causes of arthritis, especially when they lead to damage to the joint's cartilage or lining.
• Lifestyle: Certain activities, such as sports that place a lot of stress on the joints, can contribute to arthritis over time.
• Age: Osteoarthritis is most common in people over age 45. Rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age.
• Obesity: Being overweight puts more stress on the joints, which can lead to arthritis over time.

Since there is no cure for arthritis, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving your ability to move and stay active. Arthritis is typically treated in any combination of the following ways:

• Weight loss
• Icing and elevating joints
• Physical therapy
• Exercise
• Medication

A health care provider will do a physical exam and ask about your medical history. They can also refer you to a specialist for one or more of the following tests if needed:

• X-ray
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computerized tomography (CT scan)
• Ultrasound
• Blood tests

Arthritis can be uncomfortable, but you don’t have to live in constant pain. If you’re experiencing symptoms of arthritis, schedule a MinuteClinic visit for an arthritis evaluation.