Orthopedics: When to Consult an Orthopedic Surgeon?

What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor specializing in orthopedics and traumatology, the branch of medicine that studies musculoskeletal system dysfunctions. This system comprises bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Orthopedic surgeons handle the diagnosis and treatment, both surgical and non-surgical, of the musculoskeletal system.

What is Orthopedics?

Orthopedics is the discipline dealing with all pathologies related to the musculoskeletal system. Traumatology is considered one of its sub-branches, focusing on traumatic lesions—unexpected and violent events causing tissue damage.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon Treat?

An orthopedic surgeon can treat numerous musculoskeletal system anomalies, including:

• Joint impairments: arthritis, dislocations from poorly healed fractures, ligament ruptures, pain, and inflammation in these areas;
• Foot and ankle defects: bunions (common in women due to V-shaped shoes), plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tendon connecting toes and the plantar arch), sprains, heel pain, flat feet or high arches, hammertoe, and tarsal tunnel syndrome (affecting the ankle nerve);
• Hands and wrists: common injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome (limiting hand movement and closure due to median nerve damage), tendinitis (from repetitive movements), cysts, and tears;
• Shoulders: dislocation from trauma or impact is the primary cause of damage. However, rotator cuff tendinitis and bursitis (inflammation of the shoulder joint's bursae) can also occur;
• Knees: patellar dislocation, meniscus tears, tendon and cartilage damage, and sprains;
• Spine: herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, bone infections, tumors, and arthritis. Scoliosis (a pronounced curvature of the spine) is also treated;

Generally, you should consult an orthopedist for bone deformities, infections, or after fractures or sprains to assess proper bone healing. Tumors are another area this specialist addresses, deciding on limb amputation and performing surgeries.

If you experience pain or reduced movement in any of these areas, consulting an orthopedist is advisable.

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When to Consult an Orthopedic Surgeon?

There's no specific age for checkups, except for children (recommended at birth, 3 months, 2 years, 5 years, and during school age).

Specialized orthopedic examinations are recommended for persistent or painful issues in any body part, as pain is the primary symptom of musculoskeletal disorders.

Back pain, for instance, is a common ailment. Bone pain is deep, sharp or dull, usually resulting from trauma like a fracture.

Other indicators of musculoskeletal problems include mobility difficulties, swelling or bruising lasting over a few days, and sudden infections. The musculoskeletal system's vastness and interconnected pathologies make it hard to determine if discomfort is temporary or something more serious. When in doubt, consult your general practitioner first for appropriate treatment.

What Happens During a Consultation?

The doctor begins with a history taking, asking about symptoms and potential events causing trauma or musculoskeletal problems. A physical exam follows, inspecting affected areas, palpating for abnormalities (deformities, temperature changes, blood pressure alterations, swelling, injuries, or other deformities). For clarity, they compare the affected structure with a healthy one. They then investigate the pain's origin and spread and detect any sounds from bone movement.

After the exam, the specialist has a clear understanding of the issue and prescribes treatment. Diagnostic tests are usually necessary only in specific cases.

Preparing for Your Visit to the Orthopedic Surgeon

To be well-prepared for your appointment:

• Identify your pains: Prioritize them as the doctor will address the most critical issue first;
• Describe your pain: If referred, get a report from your doctor. If self-referred, note when the discomfort began;
• Learn basic medical terms: A cramp differs from a tingling sensation or pain. Precise descriptions are vital. Researching relevant terminology improves communication;
• Wear comfortable clothing and minimal accessories: Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, discography, MRI, etc.) might be needed. Be prepared for quick and convenient procedures. A physical exam may also be performed;

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