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 osteomyelitis:

1. Could I have, or am I at risk of developing, osteomyelitis?
   
   
2. What tests for osteomyelitis might I need to undergo, and what do they involve?
   
   
3. What caused my osteomyelitis?
   
   
4. Is my osteomyelitis acute or chronic?
   
   
5. What are my treatment options, and which do you recommend?
   
   
6. What is the expected course of my condition?
   
   
7. Could my osteomyelitis require surgery or amputation? Is there anything I can do to prevent the need for this?
   
   
8. How can I reduce my risk of developing or redeveloping osteomyelitis?
   
   
9. Do I need to improve my diet and exercise habits? Do I need to improve control of my glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol or anything else?
   
   
10. Should I have periodic foot exams from a doctor? What kind of skin care and foot care should I perform at home?