For the professional

Use this sheet during follow-up consultations and discussions about recovery after an injury.

Begin by asking what has changed since the previous appointment, what the patient is finding difficult and which activities they would like to resume.

Discuss the current recovery plan, relevant movement or activity restrictions, rehabilitation needs and the timing of further review.

Ensure that any rehabilitation advice and return-to-activity instructions are individualized to the injury, treatment and patient’s condition.

Before the patient leaves, agree on the next steps and confirm that they understand when to seek advice if their condition changes.

BOSADPatient communication tool

Recovery and follow-up question sheet

Understanding your recovery and planning what comes next

Recovery after an injury can take time. Your pain, movement and ability to perform everyday activities may change as you heal.

Use these questions during a follow-up appointment to discuss your progress and understand your next steps.

1. Reviewing my progress

  • How is my injury healing?
  • Is my recovery progressing as expected?
  • What has improved since my last appointment?
  • Are my current symptoms expected?
  • Do I need another examination or imaging test?
  • Are any changes to my care plan needed?
Changes I have noticed:
My main concerns:

2. Pain, movement and rehabilitation

  • What level of discomfort or stiffness might I expect?
  • How should my pain be managed?
  • Which movements or activities are safe now?
  • Are there activities I should continue to avoid?
  • Do I need physiotherapy or another form of rehabilitation?
  • When and how should I increase my activity?

Recovery instructions depend on the injury and the treatment received. Follow the individualized activity, exercise and weight-bearing instructions provided by your treating team.

My current recovery plan:

3. Returning to everyday life

  • When can I return to school or work?
  • Can I walk, carry objects or use the injured limb normally?
  • Are there temporary restrictions on physical work or sports?
  • Do I need adjustments at home, school or work?
  • When might it be safe to resume driving, if applicable?
  • What support is available if my injury affects my daily responsibilities?
Activities I want to return to:
Support or adjustments I may need:

4. Recognizing concerns

  • Which symptoms should improve as I recover?
  • Which changes should I report before my next appointment?
  • What should I do if my pain or swelling becomes worse?
  • What should I do if I develop new weakness or numbness?
  • Whom should I contact if I cannot follow the recovery plan?
My warning signs and contact instructions:

5. Planning my next review

  • Do I need another follow-up appointment?
  • Will any test results need to be reviewed?
  • Do I need a referral to another professional or service?
  • What should I aim to achieve before my next appointment?
  • What should I do if I cannot attend the scheduled review?
My next appointment

Date:

Facility or location:

My next recovery goal:
My healthcare contact

Name or facility:

Telephone:

Before you leave

Make sure you understand:

  • How your recovery is progressing.
  • Which activities are currently permitted.
  • Whether you need rehabilitation or further treatment.
  • Which symptoms require medical attention.
  • What you need to do before the next appointment.

My questions and notes