When a bone, joint, tendon, or ligament is injured, you’re often referred to an orthopedic specialist (or orthopedist). The medical field of Orthopedics specializes in conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. Your primary care doctor or the staff at an urgent care center can refer you to an orthopedic surgeon.
You may also be able to find one on your own without a referral. It’s best to ask your primary care doctor for a recommendation or search online databases such as the one offered by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. You can also check with your health insurance company. Depending on your specific plan, original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (Part C) may cover these services.
Generally, an orthopedist will try nonsurgical treatments before considering surgery. This can include pain medications, splints and braces, physical therapy, acupuncture, or other noninvasive methods.
If these don’t relieve your symptoms, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery. During surgery, your doctor may use techniques such as joint replacement, arthrodesis, or osteotomy. Joint replacement is an operation that involves removing damaged tissue and replacing it with artificial parts like metal rods, screws, or plates. Arthrodesis is an alternative to joint replacement that uses similar techniques to join bone fragments together in order to promote healing.잠실정형외과
An orthopedic surgeon can also reposition torn or overstretched tendons and ligaments. This is commonly done for athletes with sports injuries such as torn hamstrings or dislocated kneecaps.
In addition to repositioning soft tissue, some orthopedic surgeons specialize in particular areas of the body, such as the ankles and feet. They can treat complaints of the ankles and feet, such as trigger foot or plantar fasciitis, as well as knee pain, such as arthritis of the knee.
Other orthopedic specialists focus on a particular area of the spine, notably treating conditions such as slipped vertebral discs and scoliosis with a variety of therapies and surgeries. 하남정형외과 Spine specialists often collaborate with rheumatologists, physicians who treat other joints and muscles.
If you’re in pain, it’s important to see an orthopedist as soon as possible. This will allow you to get the help and treatment you need before your injury gets worse. Be sure to bring any X-rays or MRIs that you have from other health care providers to your appointment. This can help your orthopedist determine the cause of your pain and make an accurate diagnosis.