When an injury or chronic pain has been interfering with your lifestyle, it’s time to see a doctor and have it checked out. The body is not supposed to hurt, and pain is a sign that there is something wrong.
You could go see your primary care physician (PCP) about the issue, but if it’s a musculoskeletal pain – such as in a joint or muscle – it’s best to see an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in treating your type of health condition. Let’s talk about some of the best ways in which you can find an excellent orthopedist.
Ask Friends for Recommendations
If you are affiliated with a church or social organization, it’s likely you know someone who works in the health field – whether it be a nurse, doctor, or therapist. Ask them for their recommendation for a good orthopedic surgeon who can evaluate and treat your musculoskeletal issue.
Likewise, if you have friends or family who live in your area, ask them if they know of any reputable orthopedists you could see. If someone you know has seen an orthopedist, ask them about how their treatment was, how the doctor treated them, and whether the physician was good at listening to their concerns. For example, did the doctor attempt conservative measures before suggesting surgery?
Once you have one or two names of quality orthopedic surgeons, go online and check their credentials. Check their degrees, education, and training.
Verify the Doctors Take Your Insurance
Check your list of orthopedists who are under your insurance plan to make sure that the physician you’re considering does accept your insurance. If not, call that physician’s office and ask about what they charge for out-of-pocket checkups.
You should at least be able to get a definite price for self-pay for a regular initial checkup. If the practice will not give you a cost for that, look for another orthopedic surgeon.
Check for Their Specialization
Many orthopedic surgeons specialize in one area of the body or a specific type of injury or surgery. One of the advantages of going to see an orthopedist at a large group practice is that there will be an orthopedist in the same practice who specializes in the other musculoskeletal issues you may currently have or may have in the future.
Staying within the same practice makes it easy for specialized orthopedic surgeons to share your medical records with each other. That way, you do not have to start all over again at another medical facility.
Comprehensive Orthopedic Medical Center
Once you see an orthopedic surgeon, discuss any health issues you have, and ask any questions you have about treating your injury or pain. An experienced orthopedic physician will try to alleviate your pain or treat your condition with the most minimally invasive methods first if possible. Surgery will be recommended only if that is the best way to treat your chronic pain.
If you are in or around North Dakota, contact our friendly team at The Bone & Joint Center at one of our many locations across the state. Call us today at (800) 424-2663 or request an appointment online, and let us evaluate your condition and discuss the way for you to enjoy a more pain-free lifestyle once again.
