Ryan P. Cole, MD

Schedule Online Call for Appointment
952-808-3000

FAQs

General

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If you’re a new patient, please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment in order to complete the registration process. In addition, 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 medical medications and any known allergies

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 don’t have this information, don’t worry; we will still take great care of you.

Ice should be used during the acute phase (first 24-48 hours) following an injury, or whenever there is swelling.  Ice decreases blood flow to the area, which in turn decreases swelling and inflammation. Heat does the opposite. It increases blood flow to the area and can provide pain relief once the swelling and inflammation has subsided. Heat is good to use prior to doing any exercise or physical therapy as it warms up your muscles.

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

You can get cortisone injections every 3-4 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 only last a few days. It is also important to know that occasionally pain can worse following a cortisone injection before it gets better. In the meantime, over the counter pain medications and ice are recommended.

Before your Appointment

If you have your records from another physician, provider or hospital you may bring them with you to your appointment. If you do not have a copy, please contact the physician, provider or hospital to your TCO appointment to let them know we will be requesting them.

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

Yes, please contact centralized scheduling for an appointment at 952-808-3000 or reach out to Dr. Cole’s care coordinator at 952-808-3061 to get scheduled.

Yes, treatment of sports-related concussions and head injuries can be seen and treated by Dr. Cole.

After your Appointment

If an MRI scan or other diagnostic test was ordered, you will need to schedule a follow-up appointment to review the scan.

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.