Being an athlete or someone who loves staying active feels great, right? But what happens when an injury strikes? Whether you are dealing with a sprained ankle from a pickup game or a more serious issue like a torn ligament, recovery can be a daunting process. This is where an orthopedic doctor comes into play to help you heal and get back on your feet.
In this blog, we will explore the role of orthopedic doctors and how they can assist in your recovery. From understanding what these specialists do to knowing when to see one, as well as what to expect during your visits, we will cover it all.
What is an Orthopedic Doctor?
Orthopedic doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating problems related to bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and other connective tissues. They play a crucial role in helping people recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.
These doctors are trained to address a wide range of issues. From sports injuries to arthritis, and even congenital conditions, orthopedic doctors have the expertise to provide comprehensive care. They utilize various treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and surgery, to ensure their patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Common Conditions Treated by Orthopedic Doctors
Orthopedic doctors help fix many problems, especially for people who play sports or are very active. Here are some common issues they treat:
Sports Injuries
Sports injuries occur a lot in athletes and active people. Whether it is a torn ACL, a dislocated shoulder, or a sprain, orthopedic doctors can help with it all. They use many different treatments to help you heal quickly, so you can get back to playing your sport.
Arthritis
Arthritis can cause a lot of pain and make your joints stiff. Orthopedic doctors treat arthritis with medicine, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. They aim to reduce your pain and help your joints move better, making daily activities easier.
Fractures
Broken bones are another common problem that orthopedic doctors treat often. They use casts, splints, and sometimes surgery to make sure the bones heal properly. They also check on your progress intermittently to ensure you’re healing well.
When to Consult an Orthopedic Doctor
Knowing when to see an orthopedic doctor can help you recover faster. Here are some signs you should see an orthopedic specialist:
Persistent Pain
If you have pain that does not go away after a few days of rest and over-the-counter pain medicine, it is time to see an orthopedic doctor for comprehensive orthopedic care. Persistent pain could mean a more serious problem that needs an orthopedic doctor’s help.
Limited Mobility
If you have trouble moving a joint or limb, it might be an orthopedic problem. If everyday activities are difficult to do because you cannot move well, an orthopedic specialist can find out what’s wrong and suggest treatment.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation are common signs of orthopedic injuries and conditions. If you notice swelling that does not go away, especially after an injury, see an orthopedic doctor to prevent further problems.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
Your first visit to an orthopedic doctor might feel a bit scary, but understanding what will happen can help you feel better. Here is a simple guide:
Medical History and Physical Examination
The orthopedic doctor will ask about your past injuries and any health problems you’ve had. Then, they will check the part of your body that hurts to see what is wrong.
Diagnostic Tests
If needed, the orthopedic doctor might order some tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. These tests help them get a clear picture of your bones and joints to find out what’s causing the problem.
Treatment Plan
Once the doctor knows what is wrong, they will talk to you about the best ways to treat it. This could be taking medicine, doing physical therapy exercises, other treatments, or surgery.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a big part of getting better after a condition develops or after an injury or surgery. Orthopedic doctors work with physical therapists to make exercise plans that help patients get stronger and move better.
Physical therapy can help reduce pain, make you more flexible, and keep you from getting hurt again. It is especially good for athletes and active people who need to get back to their best.
Surgery
Sometimes, orthopedic doctors need to do surgery to fix problems with bones or joints. Some common surgeries are joint replacement (putting in new joint components), arthroscopy (looking inside your joint with a camera to diagnose and fix certain issues), and fracture repair (fixing severely broken bones).
Nowadays, many surgeries use special minimally invasive techniques that need smaller cuts. This means less tissue trauma, less pain, and faster healing, so patients can get back to their normal activities more quickly.
Follow-up Care
Follow-up care is very important for getting better after an orthopedic injury. Regular check-ups with an orthopedic doctor help make sure you heal properly.
Orthopedic doctors check your progress, change your treatment if needed, solve any problems, and help set long-term goals to keep you focused and motivated.
Orthopedic Doctor Near Me in San Antonio, TX
Are you ready to reclaim your active lifestyle and overcome musculoskeletal challenges? The Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine is here to help.
Our team of experienced and board-certified orthopedic doctors specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, ensuring tailored care for every patient. We offer a full spectrum of services, including physical therapy, advanced surgical interventions, and preventive care.
To request a consultation with our orthopedic doctor, call us today at (210) 692-7400 or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
