An orthopedic surgeon treats any kind of musculoskeletal issue, such as a broken bone, sprain or strain, or arthritis. This type of doctor often has an area of expertise – some may specialize in spine care, some treat the arms and shoulders, while others may focus on hip and knee replacement surgery.
Every orthopedic physician has had many years of specialized training, including medical school, residency, and usually also a fellowship. Whereas general surgeons handle all types of surgery as necessary, an orthopedist works on the musculoskeletal system and is deeply familiar with the intricacies of the bones and muscles.
The field of orthopedics is growing rapidly, and these surgeons know the latest techniques and technologies for treating these injuries. Some of the biggest reasons why you would want to see an orthopedic surgeon include sports injuries, overuse injuries, joint pain, and arthritis.
When to See an Orthopedist
If you are having difficulty using a part of your body due to pain or stiffness, or if you have suffered any type of soft-tissue injury (muscle, tendon, or ligament) that is not improving, an orthopedist can help you heal. This is the type of doctor who will have you feeling better and moving more efficiently as quickly as possible, without unnecessary tests or extra wait time.
Orthopedic treatment may be as simple as physical therapy or as complex as a full hip or knee replacement. Many orthopedists work in a group practice and therefore have multiple orthopedic surgeons who specialize in treating certain areas of the body.
A benefit of an orthopedic group practice is that it may also have physical therapists and nurses. The orthopedic surgeon will work as a team with the physical therapists and other providers in order to get the patient back to feeling more pain-free and mobile again.
Conditions Orthopedists Treat
Orthopedic surgeons treat all sorts of musculoskeletal issues, including:
- Backache
- Work injury
- Sports injury
- Pinched nerve
- Arthritis
- Strain (tendon or muscle injury)
- Sprain (ligament injury)
- Osteoporosis
- Joint injury
- Bone trauma and broken bones
- Sciatica pain
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Loss of strength
Orthopedic surgeons can perform total joint replacement, such as new hips, knees, and shoulders. Following some type of trauma, it is best to see an orthopedist rather quickly, before the body has a chance to create potentially debilitating scar tissue inside the injury.
Treatments Orthopedic Surgeons Use
In addition to performing surgery, orthopedists also use a variety of other methods – and they always try the least-invasive technique possible. Orthopedic physicians can provide shots to help relieve aching joints and nerve ablation for pain.
They also may recommend physical therapy as a precursor to surgery, or for rehabilitation after it. A group orthopedic practice can also offer nurse practitioners and physician assistants who can help with prescriptions and can answer your questions.
Orthopedic Surgeons in North Dakota
If you have an orthopedic injury and cannot “walk it off,” see a skilled orthopedist for a thorough evaluation and prompt treatment. Our team at The Bone & Joint Center Orthopaedic Center of Excellence includes orthopedic surgeons, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physical therapists who work together to provide a comprehensive approach that works best for you.
If you are in Bismarck or anywhere in the North Dakota area and have a bone, joint, or muscle problem, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call us at (800) 424-2663 or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you get back to your normal life again.
