If you have certain health conditions, an orthopedic physician or surgeon may be able to help. Doctors who work in orthopedics perform a variety of very specialized services for certain issues. Continue reading to learn more about what conditions an orthopedic physician or surgeon treats and some signs you might need to visit one.
Conditions Orthopedic Physicians Treat
Orthopedic physicians specialize in treating the joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. Examples of conditions they treat are included in the list below. This is not an exhaustive list, only a few examples.
Sports-Related Injuries
Many orthopedic physicians specialize in sports-related injuries. You don't have to be an athlete to have this type of injury. You can get sports-related injuries during your workout or casual weekend sports.
Work-Related Injuries
Some orthopedic physicians handle worker's compensation cases like routine work injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Back Problems
An orthopedic physician can help you with your back problems, including pinched nerves and sciatica.
Osteoporosis
An orthopedic physician can help you manage and retain your bone density and address issues related to bone loss.
Limb Lengthening
If you have significant differences in leg length, an orthopedic physician can evaluate your condition. He or she could possibly do limb lengthening on the shorter leg.
Differences Between Orthopedic Physicians and Surgeons
In addition to the orthopedic physician, you may have also heard the term orthopedic surgeons. Both orthopedic physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues. However, a surgeon can perform additional procedures. For example, they can use surgery to treat slipped discs, replace joints, and repair tendons.
Signs You May Need an Orthopedic Physician or Surgeon
Even if you don't think you have orthopedic issues, consider visiting an orthopedic physician or surgeon if you have some of these issues.
Mobility Issues
If you can no longer perform your normal tasks because your joints or bones hurt, an orthopedic physician can help.
Pain and Swelling in the Joints
Joint pain and swelling could be a sign of arthritis or an injury. An orthopedic physician can diagnose and treat the issue. You could also be referred to a rheumatologist if that is the problem.
Joint Pain That Doesn't Go Away
Temporary joint pain, especially after a high activity level, is not unusual. However, consider seeing an orthopedic physician if the pain is frequent and prolonged.
Orthopedic physicians and surgeons can help if you suffer from certain musculoskeletal conditions. They will work with your primary care doctor to help you get pain relief and increase mobility. If you feel an orthopedic physician can help, contact one as soon as possible or ask your primary care physician for a referral.
Share15 July 2021
As we age, our bones become more brittle and susceptible to breaking. Even the slightest fall can cause a hip to break and leave us paralyzed with pain. After a hip replacement, there are exercises that you should do. If you have recently had a hip replaced or know someone who has, this blog will help you find exercises and stretches that will help the hip to heal properly and quicker than it would if you did nothing more than the minimum. Hopefully, what I have learned will help you heal quickly and begin living your life as you did prior to the surgery.
