Many different conditions and injuries can affect the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissues of the body. Orthopedics is the medical field that diagnoses and treats these problems. If you are experiencing debilitating pain or stiffness in any of these areas, an orthopedic doctor can help you return to a normal level of functioning.

Often, the first step in seeing an orthopedic specialist is getting a referral from your primary care physician. In some cases, a patient may visit an emergency room or urgent care clinic with an injury that warrants a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. Regardless of where you get your referral, it’s important to choose an orthopedic specialist who has received the proper medical education and training. Their certification should be readily available on their online profile or on the website of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Persistent Pain and Stiffness

Some of the most common reasons people see an orthopedic doctor are for back pain or knee pain that won’t go away. Whether due to an injury or a chronic health condition, this persistent pain and stiffness can severely limit a person’s mobility and quality of life. Orthopedic doctors are trained to treat these issues and offer a variety of treatment options, from medication and physical therapy to surgery and joint replacement.

Sports Medicine

Orthopedic doctors who specialize in sports medicine can help professional and amateur athletes alike achieve peak performance without putting themselves at risk for serious injuries. These physicians create and implement plans designed to prevent injuries while boosting endurance and strength. They are also well versed in the treatment of sports-related conditions such as shoulder dislocations, wrist sprains, and tendonitis.

For patients suffering from these and other conditions, an orthopedic specialist can offer non-surgical treatment to reduce pain and improve range of motion in affected joints. These treatments include painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and cortisone injections. Cortisone is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps control inflammation and can provide longer-lasting relief to those with chronic musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis.송파정형외과

Other orthopedic treatments include braces, splints, and physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles in the affected area. They can also help with sprains and strains,강동역정형외과 such as the strained wrist known as carpal tunnel syndrome, which is typically treated at home with ice packs, over-the-counter medications, and stretching, but in severe cases, an orthopedist may recommend surgery to cut a ligament in the wrist.

Those with Medicare or Medicaid should be aware that insurance policies can vary, and some orthopedic specialists do not accept these insurances. Those who require care through these programs are encouraged to contact their insurance providers or use the Physician Compare tool on the Medicare website to find doctors who do. In addition, those who are unable to afford private healthcare should seek out nonprofit organizations that can help cover the cost of their care. In some cases, these organizations can even cover pre-existing conditions.