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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

When my mother underwent chemotherapy, we spent a lot of time visiting the phlebotomy lab for blood testing. I was always impressed by how easily the phlebotomist was able to find and puncture a vein to draw blood on the first try. I knew there had to be a method to it, and was astounded by how effortless and painless they made the process. It led me to research a lot about blood tests, from drawing to the actual screening. I've created this site to share what I've learned in the hopes of teaching others. The more you understand, the more control you can have over your own health care.

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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

3 Questions To Ask When Consulting With An Orthopedic Surgeon For Help With A Sports Injury

by Francisco Arnold

Now that you've decided to have surgery to help repair your sports injury, it's a good idea to schedule an initial consultation with your chosen orthopedic surgeon so you can learn a little about how they'll help you recover from your injury and go on to lead a healthy and happy life. Here are a few important questions that you should ask your orthopedic surgeon when you meet with them for the first time:

Is Playing Sports in the Future a Possibility?

One important question to ask your orthopedic surgeon during your initial consultation is whether they think you'll be able to continue playing sports at the same level as you did before your injury after you are healed. Just because you have been told that you can resume playing sports again after you are treated for your injury doesn't mean that you'll be able to keep playing at the same caliber that you and your coach are used to.

Knowing exactly what to expect before your treatments even start or your surgery is ever scheduled will help you and your coach properly prepare for your comeback after you're cleared to start playing sports again. You'll have time to determine whether you should start training for a new position or if you'll need special training to help you get back into the shape you were in before you were injured.

How Long Will the Recovery Process Take?

Once your orthopedic surgeon has determined what kind of surgery you will need to repair the sports injury you've developed, it is a good idea to find out how long the recovery process should take. Ask your doctor to walk you through the recovery process and explain what you can do to speed the process up if possible.

Find out if anything will inhibit the recovery process so you can effectively avoid those things whenever necessary. For instance, if walking will slow the recovery process down, make plans to have your food delivered to you and hire someone to help you out around the house so you can spend your time in bed or on the couch resting up and recovering.

Should Other Treatments Be Considered?

While surgery may be the best treatment option for your injury, your orthopedic surgeon may be able to recommend additional types of treatment that will help you better recover from the injury and help ensure that you don't end up getting hurt again in the future.

Your surgeon might suggest physical therapy, deep massage therapy, or even acupuncture to complement the surgical treatments that they'll be providing you with. They can even help you get help for depression and other mental problems you might experience while recovering from your sports injury.

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