An adult human has 206 bones in their body. These bones enable you to stand, run, and move as you go about your daily life. But what happens when something goes wrong with one of your bones? That’s when you need to see an orthopedic surgeon.
Let’s talk about the importance of consulting an orthopedic surgeon and where you can find the best one in North Carolina.
Why Should You Consult an Orthopedic Surgeon?
When dealing with the musculoskeletal system, orthopedic surgeons are the expert. Their specialized knowledge can help accurately diagnose and provide personalized care and treatment that suits your needs and goals.
An Orthopedic Surgeon’s Expertise
Orthopedic surgeons are highly trained medical professionals with specialized knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. They undergo extensive training and education to become qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Their study never stops as surgeons continuously learn and stay up to date with the latest medical knowledge and surgical techniques.
Many orthopedic surgeons may choose to specialize in a particular area of orthopedic surgery, such as sports medicine, spine surgery, or hip and knee replacement specialist. This specialization allows them to focus on a specific area of the musculoskeletal system. They become skilled in performing complex surgical procedures with minimal risk of complications.
Personalized Care and Treatment
Orthopedic surgeons take the time to listen to their patients and understand their individual needs. They will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and goals.
Your surgeon will not work alone. Orthopedic surgeons often work closely with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to help patients recover from surgery or injury. This ensures that patients receive the comprehensive care they need to return to their normal activities as quickly as possible.
You’ll Get Better
There are many different musculoskeletal injuries and conditions that can cause pain or limit your daily life. Orthopedic surgeons can provide a variety of pain relief options, including surgery, physical therapy, injections, and pain medication. They will work with you to find the best pain relief option for your individual needs.
Beyond that, orthopedic surgeons can help you improve your quality of life by relieving pain, restoring function, and preventing further injury. They can also help you return to your favorite activities and hobbies.
When Should You Consult an Orthopedic Surgeon
It may be time to consult an orthopedic surgeon if you notice something might be wrong with your bones, joints, and muscles. Here are some signs and symptoms you should look out for:
- Pain in your bones, joints, or muscles
- Swelling or redness, especially around a joint
- Decreased range of motion in a joint
- Persistent limp
- Difficulty moving your arm or leg
- Pain that is worse at night or when you rest
- Fever
- Weight loss without trying
Additionally, certain people may find it beneficial to visit an orthopedic surgeon. These people include:
- If you have a history of musculoskeletal injuries or conditions.
- If you are an athlete and are experiencing pain or discomfort related to your sport.
- If you are pregnant and are experiencing pain or discomfort in your bones, joints, or muscles.
- If you are elderly and are experiencing pain or discomfort in your bones, joints, or muscles.
These symptoms can indicate a serious injury or musculoskeletal condition, such as fractures, sprains, arthritis, and osteoporosis. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms listed above, seeing an orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible is important. They can diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the best treatment option for you.
How Your Consultation Can Go
An orthopedic surgeon can help diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Your consultation can look like this:
Diagnosis
Your orthopedic surgeon will first ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will then perform a physical exam, which may include examining your bones, joints, and muscles. The orthopedic surgeon may also order X-rays, MRIs, or other imaging tests to get a better look at your condition.
Recommending Treatment Options
Once your orthopedic surgeon has diagnosed your condition, they will discuss treatment options with you. The treatment options will depend on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. They can include physical therapy, medication, and surgery.
Performing Surgery, If Necessary
If surgery is necessary, your orthopedic surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with you. They will also explain the type of surgery that will be performed and what to expect during and after surgery.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
After surgery, you may need physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain your range of motion, strength, and function. Your orthopedic surgeon will work with a physical therapist to create a personalized rehabilitation plan for you.
Pain Management
Lastly, your orthopedic surgeon will also help develop a pain management plan that is right for you. They may prescribe medication, recommend physical therapy, or suggest other pain management techniques.
Orthopedic Surgeons in North Carolina
If you think you might need to consult an orthopedic surgeon, look no further than Dr. Brett Gilbert, at EmergeOrtho. He is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and will make sure you get the orthopedic care you deserve.
If you would like to make a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Gilbert, contact us today at (919) 788-8797, fill out our online appointment request form, or you can self-schedule your appointment here.