Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about arthritis:

1. What type of arthritis do I have or am I suspected of having?
   
   
2. What tests might I need to undergo, and what do they involve?
   
   
3. What do my test results indicate?
   
   
4. What is the expected course of my condition? Is it likely to worsen over time? Will it involve alternating periods of flare-up and remission?
   
   
5. What over-the-counter medications should I use? Are there any I should avoid?
   
   
6. What prescription medications will help my arthritis pain? Do they have side effects or risks?
   
   
7. What kind of exercise do you recommend for me? Are there any exercises I should avoid?
   
   
8. How can I tell when I should be active and when I need to rest?
   
   
9. When can heat therapy or cold therapy help me, and are there times I need to avoid them?
   
   
10. Do you recommend physical therapy, occupational therapy, acupuncture, stress management or other therapies for me?
    
    
11. Might I need surgery for my arthritis? If so, what are my options, and what do they involve?
    
    
12. Does having arthritis put me at risk for other conditions?
    
    
13. Is there anything I can do to prevent arthritis or its complications?