The musculoskeletal system, which comprises bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves, enables movement and facilitates daily activities. When an injury or condition affects this system, it can cause pain and limit mobility. An orthopedic surgeon is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats these issues. Here is more information on orthopedic surgeons, including the services they offer and the conditions they manage:
What Is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
An orthopedic surgeon is a physician dedicated to the care of the musculoskeletal system. Their training prepares them to manage a wide range of conditions, from simple fractures to complex joint replacements. These surgeons work with patients of various ages, from children with congenital disorders to older adults with arthritis. Their goal is to restore function and alleviate pain related to musculoskeletal conditions.
These specialists use both surgical and nonsurgical methods to treat musculoskeletal problems. While their title includes “surgeon,” they often recommend non-invasive treatments first, such as medication, physical therapy, or injections. Surgery is typically evaluated when conservative approaches do not provide sufficient relief.
What Services Do They Offer?
Orthopedic surgeons provide a spectrum of services to address musculoskeletal health. These services begin with diagnosis, which involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. Accurate diagnosis is the foundation for creating an effective treatment plan.
Treatment services are broad and tailored to the individual patient. Nonsurgical options include prescribing medications to reduce pain and inflammation, recommending physical therapy to improve strength and mobility, and administering injections, such as corticosteroids, directly into the affected joint. These methods are often the first line of defense.
When surgical intervention is necessary, these surgeons perform a variety of procedures. These can range from minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to repair joint damage to total joint replacement for severely degenerated joints. They also perform fracture repair and soft tissue repair.
What Conditions Do They Treat?
Orthopedic surgeons manage a diverse array of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. These conditions can result from acute injuries, degenerative diseases, congenital disorders, or overuse. Proper treatment can improve a patient’s quality of life.
Common conditions treated include:
- Fractures and dislocations: Broken bones and joints that have moved out of their normal position.
- Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, and inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis.
- Soft tissue injuries: Damage to ligaments, tendons, and muscles, including sprains, strains, and tears.
- Back and neck pain: Conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica.
By addressing these problems, these surgeons help restore function and reduce discomfort.
How Is Orthopedic Care Beneficial?
Seeking orthopedic care offers several benefits for individuals with musculoskeletal issues. The primary benefit is pain reduction or elimination. By treating the underlying cause of the pain, orthopedic specialists can provide long-term relief and improve comfort during daily activities.
Another benefit is improved function and mobility. Conditions that limit movement can make simple tasks difficult. Orthopedic treatments, including physical therapy and surgery, aim to restore range of motion, strength, and overall function, allowing patients to return to their work, hobbies, and activities. This type of care can also prevent further injury or disease progression.
Find the Right Surgeon Today
Orthopedic surgeons are specialists who diagnose and treat conditions of the musculoskeletal system. They offer a range of nonsurgical and surgical treatments to manage issues from fractures to arthritis. Their care can lead to reduced pain, restored mobility, and an improved quality of life. If you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain or a loss of function, consult an orthopedic surgeon.
