Your First Consultation - What to Expect

Hello - I'm Kumar Kunasingam. If you are coming to see me about a foot or ankle problem, you may be wondering what to expect. This video explains what happens during your first consultation and how to prepare. Before your first appointment - my team will generally try to reach out to you to get some background information, and potentially arrange imaging that might be helpful for the consultation. For straightforward presentations, such as bunions, we will endeavour to organise plain weight-bearing X-rays, so these can be reviewed with you just before you see me in clinic. If you have previous imaging that you think is relevant, please contact my team as early as possible. Unfortunately, bringing imaging on a CD often does not work as these cannot easily be loaded onto hospital systems. My team can arrange for your images to be linked to the relevant hospital's system, though this can take time, so please do this as soon as you book your appointment. It helps to wear or bring shorts or loose trousers, as I will need to examine your foot; ankle; and lower leg. Comfortable, slip-on footwear also makes this process easier for you. Your consultation begins with a detailed conversation about your symptoms. I will ask when your problem started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily life. I will then perform a thorough physical examination, assessing your range of movement, stability, and areas of tenderness. More detailed imaging may be arranged once I have assessed you, as the exact scans needed often depend on my clinical findings. If additional imaging such as an MRI is required, this will be arranged separately and reviewed at a follow-up consultation. Once I have all the necessary information - I will explain your diagnosis clearly and discuss the available treatment options. I believe strongly in shared decision-making, so you will have the opportunity to ask questions and express your preferences. There is also no pressure to make immediate decisions about treatment. If we agree that surgery is appropriate, I will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. My team will then guide you through the next steps. A great deal of coordination goes on behind the scenes, including liaising with pre-assessment teams; anaesthetic teams; theatre teams; and if applicable, your insurer. Communication is central to my practice. I take time to ensure you understand your condition and the reasoning behind my recommendations. If anything is unclear, please ask. Your questions are always welcome and important. Thank you for watching. If you would like to arrange an appointment to discuss your foot or ankle problem - please contact my team. I look forward to meeting you and helping you move forward with confidence.