Article by:
Amelia Grant
Your musculoskeletal system is made up of muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and bones. These bodily components are so crucial to daily activity that it is typical to have pain in them.
The medical specialty that focuses on addressing these conditions is orthopedics. Professionals who specialize in this area are known as orthopedists, orthopedic surgeons, or orthopedic physicians. They are qualified to detect and treat problems utilizing different methods in addition to performing surgery.
Because there are many different types of orthopedics, most orthopedic specialists have a specific area of expertise. For instance, hand, foot, and sports injuries are some of the most popular specialties within orthopedics.
Specialists and orthopedists are. Usually, your primary care physician refers you to an orthopedist. Your primary care physician can advise you on the kind of orthopedist you should see for your condition.
What Does an Orthopedic Surgeon Do?
A trained spine surgeon can identify orthopedic issues, provide or recommend treatments, and help with rehabilitation. They can also assist you in creating long-term plans for treating conditions affecting your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
This kind of specialist is capable of a wide range of operations, such as ankle, knee, hip, spinal, hand, and neck surgeries. The majority of the time, they'll try to solve the problem in the least invasive and comprehensive manner feasible, which might not include surgery.
Education and Training
A person must complete at least 13 years of schooling to become an orthopedic surgeon, which includes a bachelor's degree, medical school, a 5-year orthopedic surgery residency at a prestigious medical center, and one year of training in an orthopedic subspecialty (optional).
An aspiring orthopedic surgeon must practice for two years after completing their five-year residency before passing a final exam to earn official certification from the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.
Reasons to See an Orthopedic Surgeon
People typically visit an orthopedic doctor if they are experiencing pain in a joint, muscle, or bone, or any discomfort that affects their ability to move. You might want to consult an orthopedic surgeon if your body hurts, is stiff, is frequently swollen, or if you have an injury to one of your joints, bones, muscles, or ligaments.
If your range of motion is restricted, this is another indication that you need to visit an orthopedic specialist. Orthopedic doctors can assist you in regaining certain movement abilities.
Orthopedic doctors can aid in your recovery and assist you in avoiding additional injuries if you have suffered a significant injury. This is why orthopedic surgeons frequently collaborate with athletes.
An orthopedic surgeon can be seen without an injury. Many patients see them due to persistent pain, lack of mobility, or aches and pains.
These issues could be brought on by a past injury. They might change over time. If you experience pain, it's crucial to inform your doctor and talk to them about it.
For the treatment of issues with your bones and soft tissues (ligaments and tendons) brought on by a longer-term sickness, you might visit an orthopedic surgeon. Physical therapy, medication, or surgery may all be part of your treatment approach.
What to Expect at the Orthopedic Surgeon
An orthopedic surgeon will inquire about your medical history and current problems when you initially visit them. Bring any previous test results or medical records you may have with you.
Your doctor might perform a test on you or a battery of tests to determine your condition. These examinations may use X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging, depending on your symptoms (MRIs). Physical tests may also be a part of them.
You might also receive a diagnosis from your orthopedic surgeon devoid of any testing. In this situation, they might just merely question you to ascertain the root of your issues.
Following a diagnosis, you and your doctor will go over your treatment options and choose the one that is best for you. This can involve surgery, a cast or taping system, or even physical activity.