As the year winds down, December is the perfect time to check in on your orthopedic health. Whether you’ve been dealing with ongoing joint pain, a nagging injury, or you simply want to move into the new year feeling better, a little planning now can make a big difference later.
If you are looking to book your end of year orthopedic appointment, this guide is for you. Here’s your simple End-of-Year Orthopedic Checklist to help you finish the year strong and step into a new one with confidence.
1. Schedule Your End of Year Orthopedic Appointment If You’ve Been Putting Off Pain
If you’ve been managing hip, knee, shoulder, back, foot, or hand pain on your own, December is a smart time to get evaluated. Early care can prevent bigger issues, and many patients feel better heading into the new year with a clear plan for treatment or rehab.
2. Review Your Year of Movement
Think back on the past 12 months:
- Did certain activities become harder?
- Are you avoiding exercise or sports because of pain?
- Did you experience new injuries?
These patterns can help our fellowship-trained physicians identify what’s going on and how to help you move comfortably again.
3. Check Your Benefits: FSA/HSA Funds & Met Deductibles
December is consistently one of the busiest months for orthopedic care for a very good reason: financial strategy. Many patients rush to schedule appointments to ensure they use their remaining FSA/HSA funds before they expire at the end of the year.
Additionally, if you have already hit your insurance threshold, you can take advantage of met deductibles. This means your end of year orthopedic appointment, and any subsequent treatments, could be covered at a much higher rate (or fully covered) compared to waiting until January when deductibles reset. If either of these scenarios apply to you, now is the time to schedule!
4. Don’t Ignore Holiday-Related Injuries
The holiday season brings more:
- Falls while decorating
- Lifting-related back pain
- Slips on wet or icy surfaces
- Hand and wrist overuse from baking, wrapping, and shopping
Our orthopedic urgent care clinics are open extended hours to treat injuries fast, so you don’t have to wait in a crowded ER.
5. Set Yourself Up for a Pain-Free New Year
December appointments allow you to:
- Start physical therapy before resolutions kick in
- Plan for elective procedures
- Get personalized guidance for joint health going into 2026
Catching early warning signs like swelling, clicking, limited motion, or stiffness can prevent bigger injuries in the new year. It’s the best way to hit January feeling ready, not restricted.
6. Make a Plan with a Specialist You Trust
Whether you need imaging, an evaluation, a follow-up, or a second opinion, our providers are here to guide you. We offer complete orthopedic care, all in one place, at OrthoArkansas.
You deserve to feel like yourself again. OrthoArkansas is here to help you get back to the best version of you, without pain holding you back.
