When you're experiencing pain and must see a physician, you are typically asked a number questions. Where do you hurt? When did the pain start? What does the pain of doctor examines you and may also run a num feel like-is it sharp or dull? The ber of tests. The doctor is diagnosing the problem by examination and observation. After making a diagnosis, the physician will prescribe medicine or a course of ac tion. In most cases the patient will implement the prescription, and the doctor will evaluate how the prescription is working.