Whether you’re an athlete with a knee injury, an older adult experiencing hip pain or an infant with clubfoot, your musculoskeletal health matters. These conditions and their accompanying pain can keep you from doing the things you love — and can even be life-threatening if left untreated. From diagnosing your condition to preparing you for surgery, an orthopedist’s expertise helps you get back on track in the least amount of time possible.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons defines orthopedics as “the branch of medicine devoted to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases and injuries of the bones, joints and ligaments.” Whether you’re seeing an orthopedist for a broken bone, tendonitis or something else entirely, they’ll work with you to understand your symptoms and help you find the best path forward.잠실정형외과
Your first step will always be to consult your primary care physician (PCP), as they’ll be able to give you a clear diagnosis and direct you to the right care for your specific needs. If they determine you’re a good candidate for surgery, an orthopaedic surgeon will then handle your care from start to finish. They’ll take a thorough medical history and perform a physical examination before making any diagnoses or recommending any tests.
Most orthopedists will try nonsurgical treatments to treat your injury or condition before suggesting surgery. These therapies can include a combination of devices that hold bones or joints in place like braces, splints and casts; medications to reduce inflammation, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or steroids; and physiotherapy techniques to improve your strength and range of motion.하남정형외과
Some orthopedists specialize in pediatric patients, and can treat skeletal problems that arise during childhood — like scoliosis — as well as developmental issues, such as clubfoot and hip dysplasia. Other doctors focus on the upper extremities, including arms and hands; these specialists can help you manage chronic pain in the elbow, wrist, hand or finger. Still, others will treat your feet and ankles, and can help with conditions like trigger finger or carpal tunnel syndrome.
While it’s important to note that both the terms orthopaedic and orthopedics are valid for this branch of medicine, most organizations and practices will choose one spelling over another. When choosing an orthopedist, look for board-certified credentials and degrees, as well as any accreditations related to your particular condition or suspected condition. This information should be readily available on the physician’s official online profile if they have an official website. If not, ask them to provide this information during your consultation. This ensures that they have completed the appropriate education and training to treat your condition safely and effectively.