Orthopedics

Orthopedic

Orthopedics is the medical field dealing with the musculoskeletal system. Your musculoskeletal system consists of muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and joints. Pain or injury to any of these body parts can be treated by surgical and non-surgical methods.

If you experience any issues in your musculoskeletal system, it is best to consult an orthopedic specialist near you.

Who is an orthopedic surgeon?

An orthopedic surgeon or an orthopedist is a doctor who specializes in this branch of medicine. He/she is qualified to diagnose and provide the best treatment for your joint issues. Musculoskeletal problems may be present from birth, age-related or because of an injury (accidents, fractures, sports injury, etc.). An orthopedist’s team consists of athletic trainers, physical therapists, nurse practitioners, and surgeons. Some doctors and surgeons specialize in a specific branch of orthopedics (subspecialties) such as:

• Musculoskeletal oncology (tumor or cancer)
• Sports medicine and injury
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Joint replacement surgery
• Spine and back surgery
• Trauma surgery
• Foot and ankle
• Hand and upper extremity

When should you consult an orthopedist?

Constant discomfort and pain in your bones and muscles can affect your body movements and daily activities. If you encounter any of the following signs, do consult an orthopedist in Bangalore:

• Weak, stiff, and bruised muscles
• Swelling in the joints
• Fractures and joint dislocation
• Twisted ankles
• Sports injury - sprain, ligament, and muscle tears
• Repetitive pain and discomfort from body movements
• Tingling or numb limbs
• Shoulder, knee, and neck pain while moving
• Spinal injury and disc dislocation

If you observe any of the above signs and symptoms with swelling and fever,

request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Koramangala, Bangalore.

You can call 1860-5002-244 to book your appointment.

What are the basic diagnostic tests for orthopedic issues?

Based on your condition and symptoms, an orthopedist will try to figure out the root cause of your issue by conducting a physical examination and an X-ray. Minor fractures, sprain, muscle, or ligament tears are treated with oral medicines and injections. In some cases, additional diagnostic tests may be required, such as:

• MRI scan
• CT scan
• Ultrasound
• Nerve conduction studies
• Bone scan
• Blood tests

If you have a fracture or joint dislocation, an orthopedist treats you with local or general anesthesia. The doctor resets your bone injury by using a cast or a brace to prevent bone movement until it heals. Though "surgery" sounds serious, you can trust your orthopedic team to guide you on the best treatment plans and care, whenever necessary.

How are orthopedic issues treated?

The treatment plan for you depends on the severity of your problem, diagnosed by the doctor. The doctor can prescribe medicines, recommend surgery or physiotherapy near you.
Non-surgical treatment includes:

• anti-inflammatory drugs
• painkillers and ointments
• injections
• home exercises

If you are suffering from arthritis or chronic pain, the doctor may suggest visiting the best rehabilitation center near you. Surgery is mostly the last option recommended by an orthopedist when non-surgical methods do not work. Bone and joint repair, bone replacement, and spinal injuries mostly require surgeries.

For more queries related to surgery, please consult an orthopedic surgeon near you.

Conclusion

Orthopedists are musculoskeletal specialists and doctors who treat problems related to bones, muscles, tendons, and joints. Suitable treatment is possible with timely diagnosis of the issue and self-care. Orthopedists undergo their training and practice rigorously before performing any diagnosis and surgeries.