The human musculoskeletal system is an intricate network of muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues responsible for our mobility. When any component of this system is compromised due to a degenerative disease, injury, or other medical condition, it can significantly impact our overall well-being and quality of life.
Orthopedic surgery offers hope for individuals facing any musculoskeletal condition or injury. However, like any surgical procedure, the decision to undergo orthopedic surgery requires careful consideration and wisdom.
Let’stalk about some steps that can help you determine if orthopedic surgery is the appropriate choice for you and where you can go for outstanding orthopedic surgery in San Antonio, TX.
#1 Understand Your Orthopedic Condition
This is the very first step in determining your need for orthopedic surgery. To understand your orthopedic condition better, see an experienced orthopedic surgeon.
Your orthopedic surgeon will assess your symptoms, conduct a physical exam, order diagnostic tests, and provide you with an accurate diagnosis of your problem. Then, they will educate you about your condition and possible treatment options, including surgery.
Some orthopedic conditions that warrant surgery are as follows:
- Fractures
- Osteoarthritis
- Rotator cuff tears
- Nerve damage
#2 Explore Conservative Treatments
Orthopedic surgery is not the only option for treating musculoskeletal system conditions. So, first, try nonsurgical approaches, such as medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modification, bracing, cortisone injections, etc., to treat your orthopedic condition. These nonsurgical approaches can provide relief and improve your condition.
Once you have exhausted all these treatments with no relief, surgery may be the right treatment.
#3 Weigh the Risks and Benefits of Orthopedic Surgery
Like any surgery, orthopedic surgery also comes with inherent risks. So, before considering surgery, it’s important to understand the risks of the surgery thoroughly. Additionally, consider the benefits of orthopedic surgery, such as pain relief and improved functionality, mobility, and range of motion. Evaluate and balance the potential risks against the anticipated benefits.
Your orthopedic surgeon is your best resource who can provide insight into the success rate, recovery process, and potential surgery outcomes for your unique orthopedic condition.
For the most suitable treatment, your orthopedic surgeon may also consider your personal factors, such as age, activity level, overall health, lifestyle, and medical conditions.
Ortho Doctor in San Antonio, TX
Determining whether orthopedic surgery is the right choice for you is a collaborative decision between you and your orthopedic surgeon. This collaboration will ensure that all the important factors have been considered before making the decision.
At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, we have a team of board-certified and highly experienced orthopedic surgeons who work with you to determine your need for orthopedic surgery. Our orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine doctors first utilize conservative treatments before recommending surgery.
If you would like to set up a consultation with one of our orthopedic surgeons, call us today at (210) 662-7400 or fill out our online appointment request form.
