How to Fill out an Arthritis Screening Questionnaire

The process of diagnosing arthritis involves a series of screening modalities. You can expect to fill out a lengthy medical history questionnaire for your initial visit. Your doctor may order tests such as X-rays or ultrasound imaging to determine the existence or extent of joint involvement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Rheumatologist
• Diary

Include All Information

1. Give a detailed explanation of the pain. It is important to clearly define the location, duration and intensity of the pain. Make note if the pain worsens with movement or activity.
2. Make a complete listing of all medications you currently take. This includes over-the-counter medicines, along with herbal supplements, vitamins and minerals.
3. Explain on the arthritis screening questionnaire any previous injuries you have had in the affected location of the pain. Arthritis is sometimes a result of an old injury, so go back as far as you can remember.
4. Identify any joints that are swollen or red in conjunction with being painful. Joint involvement may also include a feeling of warmth on the affected tissue.
5. Record any change in your range of motion. If you experience a decrease in the ability to reach without pain, or to stand from a sitting position without pain, this information should be stated when you fill out an arthritis screening questionnaire.
6. Identify any joints in your hands or feet with an obvious deformity. As the joints deteriorate from the affects of the arthritis, you may notice a joint turning or becoming enlarged.
7. Take any previous X-rays or diagnostic studies with you when you visit a rheumatologist. The rheumatologist will want to evaluate the test results in relation to his physical observations during your examination.
8. Be prepared to undergo a variety of laboratory and diagnostic studies, especially if you do not have recent results to share with your doctor.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a diary for several days or weeks prior to your visit to a rheumatologist to have accurate information when you fill out a screening questionnaire for arthritis.
• Answer the medical questionnaire completely and as accurately as possible. You will be asked to describe your symptoms or the reason for your visit.
• Dress comfortably for your doctor visit. You will be asked to do a variety of movements so the doctor can determine your comfortable range of motion.
• Check with your insurance provider about the requirement for a referral from your primary care doctor before you schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist. Some carriers will not pay for specialty services if you fail to get the proper referral letter.