If you’re suffering from an injury or health issue that impacts your musculoskeletal system (your bones, muscles, and joints), an Orthopedic doctor is the best person to consult. They can help you manage pain and restore mobility, allowing you to live your best life.
Orthopedic doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of muscle, bone, joint, ligament, and tendon injuries and disorders. Their services include pain management, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and surgery. They can also provide preventative care to reduce your risk of future orthopedic conditions.
Most people will first visit their family doctor for a health problem or injury. GPs are well-trained to handle general medicine, but they can refer you to an Orthopedist for musculoskeletal issues like joint or muscle pain. An Orthopedist will have more expertise when it comes to treating muscle or bone problems, so they’ll take less time than a family doctor to diagnose and treat your problem.
Orthopedists have extensive education and training. They spend four years in medical school, where they gain a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Then, they spend five years in an orthopaedic residency program gaining hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating orthopedic conditions. Many have additional fellowship training, lasting one or more years, to hone their skills in specific sub-specialties of orthopedics.
An Orthopedist has a wide range of treatment options, including steroid injections to alleviate pain and swelling.잠실정형외과 They can perform minimally invasive surgeries using an arthroscope, which is a thin tube with a camera on the end that allows them to view your joint without opening it up. They can also provide physical therapy, including regular sessions and a customized treatment plan that improves strength, flexibility, and mobility.하남정형외과
If you have insurance, your orthopedist will help you maximize your benefits. They will review your health history and recommend treatments that are covered by your plan. Typically, Medicare and most private insurers cover orthopedist services that are considered medically necessary. If you’re on Medicaid, check with your state’s department of health to see which physicians are in network and which ones accept your specific plan.
In addition to being board-certified, your orthopedist should have a valid license to practice in the United States. You can check licensing and credentialing information on your physician’s website or by searching an online database. The AAOS also encourages patients to look for doctors who have completed an accredited fellowship in a relevant sub-specialty. This extra training helps them better understand your condition and recommend effective treatments. Moreover, it will ensure you’re receiving the best possible care for your specific needs. You can find fellowship information on a physician’s website or by asking the office staff.