Whether you’ve been referred by your primary care provider or you yourself have scheduled an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to receive his/her expertise, you want to know more about them before visiting their clinic.
An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing a full range of disorders, injuries, and conditions affecting your bones, muscles, joints, nerves, ligaments, and tendons. An orthopedic surgeon has the right combination of essential attributes, i.e., clinical acumen and skills crucial for successful treatment of your musculoskeletal system disorders.
Let’s talk about three interesting facts you want to know about orthopedic surgeons and where you can find the best orthopedic surgeon.
Orthopedic Surgeons Can Do Much More Than Just an Orthopedic Surgery
It’s no denying that orthopedic surgeons are primarily recognized for their surgical expertise in performing simple to complex orthopedic procedures, such as joint replacements, ACL surgery, and rotator cuff repair among others. However, since not all injuries or orthopedic disorders require surgery, an orthopedic surgeon first explores the nonsurgical treatment options for anyone suffering from musculoskeletal disorders. The nonsurgical treatment choices may include rest, medications, cortisone shots, and physical therapy.
They also help patients by regularly collaborating with other health care providers, such as physiatrists, physical therapists, and primary care providers. They may also make referrals to these providers to hasten the recuperation process.
Orthopedic Surgeons Can Treat Wide Range of Orthopedic Conditions
An orthopedic surgeon can treat all sorts of musculoskeletal conditions in people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. They are highly skilled at treating many types of conditions including:
- Foot and ankle problems (Achilles tendon rupture, plantar fasciitis, bunions)
- Shoulder pain and injuries (rotator cuff repair, shoulder dislocation, bursitis, tendonitis, and impingement syndrome)
- Neck pain and problem (cervical disc degeneration, whiplash, and spinal stenosis)
- Hand and wrist problems (carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger)
- Knee pain and injuries (ACL tear, meniscus tear)
- Spine problems (scoliosis, kyphosis, spondylosis, spinal degeneration, etc.)
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis of large joints)
- Fractures (open, closed, and stress fracture)
- Sports or traumatic injuries, such as strains and sprains
Some Orthopedic Surgeons Are Specialized in Specific Parts of the Body
Some orthopedic surgeons practice general surgery, while others specialize in specific body parts even though there is no requirement for them to specialize in treating one part of the body. An orthopedic surgeon may specialize in treating body parts including:
- Hand or upper extremities
- Spine
- Foot and ankle
- Joints replacement
They may also choose subspecialties like reconstructive surgery, pediatrics, oncology, and sports medicine.
To schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic surgeons, call us today at (423) 282-9011 or fill in our secure online appointment request form You can also visit our offices in Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol.
