“Concerned about the annual physical exam?”
I am 20 years old and I have been having back pain for 2 months now. I was injured 2 months ago during my gym class which also led to a headache and I also take concerta 36 MG 1 pill every morning. So for the annual physical exam do I take off my pants and underwear or do I take off all of my clothes? And will the doctor also examine my genitalia and do a digital rectal exam. and how do I take care of my back pain, do I get an x-ray or ice pack or pain medication?
Male | 20 years old
Complaint duration: 2 years
Medications: Concerta 36 MG
Conditions: back pain
2 Answers
Only down to underwear with gown and gentle exam for hernia detection. No need for a rectal exam at 20 years old.
Every doctor is different with their annual exams - I have men get down to their underwear or, if wearing shorts, shorts and underwear while I talk and do most of my exam - I do exam genitalia but no rectal. For your back pain, that probably should be a separate appointment and the work-up for that can be extensive and take too much time to do along with the yearly annual exam.
