The human adult body consists of more than 200 bones which are connected to muscles and connective tissues at the joints. This musculoskeletal system serves as the central structure and internal framework of the body.
Orthopedics is the branch of medicine that deals with treating injuries and conditions of the body’s musculoskeletal system, including the bones, muscles, and joints. It also functions as the specialty that handles sports medicine, including preventive medicine.
Physicians Who Specialize in Bone Issues
The following are the various types of doctors who treat bone conditions:
Orthopedic Physicians
Orthopedists specialize in treating injuries, diseases, and conditions that are related to the bones and supporting systems of muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other ancillary structures. These doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, from strains and sprains to bursitis and tendonitis, and diseases like arthritis and osteoporosis.
Hand and Foot Doctors
The hand, wrist, foot, and ankle all have delicate and complicated structures. These body parts consist of tiny muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Because we use our hands and feet practically all day every day, they are vulnerable to injuries.
Hand and foot doctors are responsible for diagnosing and treating injuries specific to their area of expertise. Hand surgeons treat deformities and vascular conditions of the hand and wrist, including carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injury. Foot surgeons focus on foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
Sports Medicine Doctors
Every athlete knows that they are particularly prone to injuries. The risks of broken bones and joint injuries are common when performing intensive physical activities, and sports medicine doctors specialize in treating athletes and helping them avoid injury.
These specialists often extend the careers of athletes by many years thanks to their quick action during sporting events and competitions as well as their advice and guidance in injury prevention. Moreover, they handle amateur, school-age, collegiate, and professional athletes as well as active retirees who play everything from golf to tennis.
Spinal Surgeons
The spinal column is the center of the body’s skeletal system. The vertebrae also serve to protect the spinal cord, which pairs with the brain to form the central nervous system – controlling all of our movements and physical feelings.
Spine surgeons treat spinal injuries and deformities that may lead to chronic pain and impaired mobility, including vertebral fractures and herniated discs. They are also responsible for treating degenerative disorders affecting the back, such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.
Bone Doctors in San Antonio
If you’re experiencing problems in your bones, muscles, or joints, seek medical care from an orthopedic specialist. Our team of orthopedic doctors and surgeons here at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine can diagnose and treat your musculoskeletal issue so you can get back to enjoying your active lifestyle.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our staff today by calling us at (210) 692-7400. You can also request an appointment now by filling out our easy-to-use online form. Let us help you get back into motion!
