If a visit to an orthopedic surgeon is in your future, be sure to arm yourself with several important questions to ask during the appointment.
You may be visiting an orthopedic specialist for a wide range of reasons, including these common scenarios:
· Joint pain due to arthritis
· Your child fell at the playground and broke a bone
· Hip or knee injuries due to sports or wear and tear
No matter what brings you to the office – make sure you get the answers you need.
Orthopedic surgeons specialize in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system, which is made up of joints, muscles, bones, nerves, ligaments, nerves, tendons, and connective tissues. Orthopedists are also experts in how the body moves, a science called kinesiology. Orthopedic physicians can help injured people regain their strength, range of motion, functionality, and improve their overall health and quality of life.
You’ll want to be sure you ask some basic questions when you meet with an orthopedic surgeon for the first time. Here are a few questions you may want to consider:
1. What are your qualifications?
Seeing a board-certified orthopedic surgeon is of upmost importance. Ask the physician about his or her qualifications and whether he or she is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). To save some time, you may want to do a little online research before your appointment. Picking the right orthopedic doctor is imperative for a successful outcome, especially where surgery is concerned.
2. What are the nonsurgical or minimally invasive alternatives?
Depending on the issue that brought you to the orthopedic physician, there may be nonsurgical or minimally invasive options available. These may include injections, medications, physical therapy, and diet or lifestyle modifications. These types of alternatives have the added benefit of a quicker recovery for you, as well as avoiding the risks inherent with any surgery. Make sure you discuss in depth all options available to you for your particular injury or condition. If surgery is the best option, you will want to discuss which surgical procedure is the right one for you.
3. When can I return to my normal activities?
This is one of the most common questions asked of an orthopedic surgeon. Orthopedic injuries are often painful and debilitating. Many people want to know exactly when they can return to their daily lives and active lifestyles. It often depends on the person, their condition, issue, and the treatment involved – which is exactly what you and your surgeon should discuss.
While the body has an amazing ability to heal and repair itself, orthopedic injuries and conditions sometimes require some extra tender, loving care – and the attention of a skilled orthopedic surgeon. Don’t be shy about reaching out.
Have questions for an orthopedic surgeon? Call Watauga Orthopaedics today at (423) 282-9011 to request an appointment, or schedule an appointment online.
