Orthopaedic surgeons are medical experts who specialize in treating bones, joints, and muscles. These professionals are adept at both surgical and non-surgical methods to address various injuries, diseases, and conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Their goal is not only to alleviate pain but also to improve how well your body functions and enhance your overall quality of life.
Let’s break down some of the most frequent issues orthopaedic surgeons deal with, showcasing their important role in maintaining and restoring health.
Arthritis
Arthritis involves swelling in the joints that leads to discomfort and makes it hard to move. The two main types are:
- Osteoarthritis, which happens due to the wearing down of joint cartilage over time
- Rheumatoid arthritis, which is an immune system disorder that targets the lining of the joints
Depending on how severe the condition is, treatments can range from medication and physical therapy to joint replacement surgery.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures. Often, people do not know they have it until they fracture a bone.
Orthopaedic specialists help manage osteoporosis through medicines, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery to fix fractures or strengthen bones.
Fractures and Dislocations
Handling broken bones (fractures) and bones that have moved out of place (dislocations) is a fundamental part of what orthopaedic surgeons do.
These conditions need quick and accurate treatment to put the bones back in place, which might involve:
- Setting the bone without surgery
- Using casts
- Performing surgery to ensure the bones heal correctly
Sports Injuries
Injuries from sports activities are common issues orthopaedic surgeons treat. Some examples include:
- Tears in the knee’s ACL ligament
- Tears in the knee’s meniscus
- Damage to the shoulder’s rotator cuff
They utilize state-of-the-art treatments, including arthroscopic surgery—a technique involving small incisions and specialized tools—to effectively fix these injuries with less recovery time.
Spinal Disorders
Spine problems can range from herniated discs and narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) to curvature of the spine (scoliosis) and the wearing down of discs (degenerative disc disease).
Due to the spine’s complexity, treating these issues might require a mix of physical therapy, injections, or more advanced surgeries to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Tendonitis and Bursitis
Tendonitis (inflammation of a tendon) and bursitis (inflammation of a bursa) often occur from repetitive movements or stress on joints.
Treatment mainly aims to reduce swelling and pain, which might include:
- Taking a break from certain activities
- Engaging in physical therapy
- Getting corticosteroid injections
- Undergoing surgery in severe cases.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Orthopaedic surgeons also treat carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition in which pressure on a nerve in the wrist causes hand and arm pain, numbness, or tingling.
They might recommend non-surgical options or surgery to take pressure off the nerve and help relieve symptoms.
When to Visit an Orthopaedic Surgeon
Deciding when to see an orthopaedic surgeon can sometimes be confusing. You might wonder if your injury or pain is serious enough or if it could heal on its own.
Here is a simple guide to help you understand when it is a good idea to seek their expert advice:
1. Persistent Pain
If you have pain in your bones, joints, or muscles that does not go away after a few days of rest and home treatment, it is time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon.
2. Injury Impacting Daily Activities
You should see a specialist if an injury or pain is making daily tasks difficult, like:
- Walking
- Climbing stairs
- Carrying groceries
- Getting dressed
3. Limited Range of Motion
Finding it hard to move a part of your body as you normally would, like not being able to turn your head fully or bend your knee, might mean there is an underlying issue that needs attention.
4. Instability While Walking or Standing
Feeling shaky or uncertain on your feet, or if your knees give way while walking or standing, could indicate a problem with your joints that an orthopaedic surgeon needs to examine.
5. Soft Tissue Injury Not Improving
If you have had a sprain, strain, or another soft tissue injury that does not seem to get better with home care, an orthopaedic surgeon can offer treatments to help heal and prevent further injury.
6. Joint Deformity
Sudden changes in your joint’s appearance, like swelling or an unusual angle, especially after an injury, are cause for concern. Similarly, gradual changes in your joint’s shape that worry you warrant an orthopaedic doctor’s evaluation.
7. Signs of Infection
If you notice swelling, redness, warmth, or fever around a joint or injured area, these could be signs of an infection that needs immediate medical attention.
Remember, early intervention by an orthopaedic surgeon can often prevent a small problem from becoming a bigger, more complex issue.
They are not just surgeons; they also offer a wide range of non-surgical treatments to help you get back to feeling your best. If you are unsure whether your specific condition warrants a visit, it is always better to err on the side of caution and visit an orthopaedic specialist.
The Best Orthopaedic Surgeon Near Me in Pembroke Pines & Lauderdale Lakes, FL
Orthopaedic surgeons have the expertise and the tools to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions. Our extensive training and knowledge allow us to provide personalized care plans aimed at reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing life quality. You can trust our ability to offer sophisticated and impactful care for a broad range of orthopaedic issues.
If you are in search of a trusted orthopaedic surgeon near you, visit us here at Total Orthopaedic Care in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes. We provide comprehensive orthopaedic services for seniors, from treating and managing orthopaedic conditions to improving musculoskeletal health.
We also offer same-day appointments for acute and new injuries.
For more information or to schedule your consultation, call us today at (954) 735-3535 or use our online appointment request form.
