Orthopedic doctors have a significant impact on patient care, particularly in the realm of musculoskeletal health, which is the health of the bones, joints, and soft tissues that support movement. They have the highest level of expertise when it comes to the treatment of injuries and degenerative conditions like arthritis.
Since movement is essential to life, orthopedic doctors provide a very important service. Let’s explore the impact of orthopedic doctors on the quality of patient care.
Diagnostic Experts
Orthopedic doctors are highly trained medical professionals with extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. Combined with years of training and experience, plus a thorough process of evaluation, they have highly tuned diagnostic skills that minimize the risk of errors and positively impact the success of treatment. They may use tests and medical imaging to visualize the injury or identify the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms.
Custom Treatments
Orthopedic doctors understand that each patient is unique, with specific needs and unique circumstances. They develop personalized treatment plans that consider factors such as the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and preferences. Depending on the patient and their condition, treatment may include medication, injection therapy, physical therapy, casting/bracing/splinting, or surgical procedures such as fracture repair, arthroscopic repair, and joint replacement.
Excellence in Surgery
After completing their medical education, orthopedic surgeons undergo a specialized residency training program focused on orthopedic surgery. This residency typically lasts for five years and includes comprehensive training in surgical techniques and procedures specific to the musculoskeletal system.
During their residency, orthopedic surgeons gain hands-on experience and develop proficiency in a wide range of surgical interventions, including joint replacements, fracture repairs, ligament reconstructions, arthroscopic procedures, and trauma surgery, among others.
Injury Prevention
Orthopedic doctors play a vital role in educating patients about injury prevention strategies to preserve the health of the tissue. By guiding proper body mechanics, form, and techniques during exercise, sports, and work, they help patients minimize the risk of injury. This focus on injury prevention promotes long-term musculoskeletal health, so the individual can remain active and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
Rehabilitation Support
Orthopedic doctors are actively involved in the patient’s rehabilitation and recovery process. They collaborate with rehabilitation specialists, such as physical therapists, to design comprehensive rehabilitation programs tailored to help the patient return to their pre-injury or preoperative level of function in terms of strength, mobility, and range of motion.
Advancements in Research and Technology
Orthopedic doctors contribute to advancements in their field through research, clinical studies, and innovations. Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons often actively participate in research activities within their respective subspecialties, whether it’s sports medicine, hand surgery, or joint replacement. Research is an essential component of advancing medical knowledge, improving treatment outcomes, enhancing patient care, and shaping the future of the specialty.
Top Orthopedic Doctors in San Antonio, TX
The orthopedic surgeons at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine specialize in arthritis treatment, joint replacement, hand surgery, and trauma and fracture care. We maintain a very high level of excellence in patient care and provide a supportive environment for our patients to heal and recover. Our doctors are active members of the community and engage in continuing research in their specialty.
We are committed to making a difference in your life. To schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedists, call our office today at (210) 692-7400 or use our convenient online form. We look forward to serving you.
