FAQs

General

Dr. Hofkens sees patients at the Stillwater and Vadnais Heights locations. Click here for directions.

Dr. Hofkens is a non-operative sports medicine specialist that is qualified to see all types of acute injuries from concussions to fractures. He sees patients of all ages.

As a physiatrist, he focuses on your functional abilities and work to create a rehabilitation plan that is tailored to your goals.  He always tries to focus on your long-term health if possible and use a variety of diagnostic and treatment tools to help you achieve these goals.

 

If you are a new patient, please arrive to your appointment early in order to complete the registration process. In addition, please bring the following:

  • Driver’s License or State ID
  • Referral (if required by insurer)
  • Insurance information
  • Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs and CT scans from prior doctor visits
  • List of current medications and any known allergies

It depends, as each patient’s situation is unique. If you have any questions, please contact your doctor’s care team before your appointment, and we will be very happy to address any of your questions.

Yes, absolutely. The more information we have regarding your unique situation and past history, the better equipped we are to provide the highest level of care. Bringing any previous x-rays, scans, and/or documentation (if available) is recommended. If you do not have this information, don’t worry; we will still take great care of you.

Ice should be used during the acute phase (first 24 to 48 hours) following an injury, or whenever there is swelling. Ice decreases blood flow to the area, which in turn decreases

You can use the General Contact Form on the Contact & Locations page of this website to get in touch with Dr. Hofkens regarding second opinions or contact us via phone to set up an appointment or speak with a member of our care team.

You can get cortisone injections every 3 to 4 months as long as they continue to provide symptomatic relief.

Some patients get immediate relief from a cortisone injection. For others, it may take up to 2 weeks for the injection to take effect. However, most people notice relief within 2 to 3 days. The duration of a cortisone injection can vary greatly. Some will last as long as a year, whereas others may last only a few days. It is also important to know that occasionally pain can get worse following a cortisone injection before it gets better. In the meantime, over the counter pain medications and ice are recommended.

Before your Appointment

Yes, of course. Feel free to have family members or friends join you in your consultation. Many patients find it is helpful to have support in the room, even just as an extra set of ears to remember the details of the visit.

After your Appointment

After your appointment, or after surgery, you can expect prompt and accessible follow-up treatment. Care continues long after surgery and we want to be a part of your complete healing process. If you ever have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

If an MRI scan or other diagnostic test was ordered, you will be called with the results once available.

If you have questions after your appointment, please feel free to contact us. You can call our clinic directly, or contact us using the General Contact Form on the Contact & Locations page of this website.