Frequently Asked Questions

An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions of the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. They provide both surgical and non-surgical treatments for injuries, deformities, and degenerative conditions to help patients restore mobility and relieve pain.

Orthopaedic surgeons commonly treat:

• Arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
• Fractures and dislocations
• Sports injuries (e.g., ACL tears, meniscus injuries)
• Spine conditions (e.g., herniated discs, scoliosis, spinal stenosis)
• Joint pain (hip, knee, shoulder)
• Tendon and ligament injuries (e.g., rotator cuff tears, carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Osteoporosis and bone deformities

You should consult an orthopaedic surgeon if you experience:

• Persistent joint, back, or bone pain.
• Difficulty performing daily activities (e.g., walking, bending).
• Limited range of motion in joints.
• Swelling, stiffness, or deformity in joints or bones.
• Injuries like fractures, ligament tears, or dislocations.
• Symptoms of arthritis, osteoporosis, or sports-related injuries.

No, orthopaedic surgeons do not always recommend surgery. They first explore non-surgical treatments like:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
• Medications for pain and inflammation management.
• Corticosteroid injections to relieve joint pain.
• Lifestyle modifications like weight loss, exercise, and ergonomic changes.
• Surgery is considered only when conservative treatments fail or the condition is severe.

Some of the most common orthopaedic procedures include:

• Joint replacement surgeries (e.g., total hip, knee, and shoulder replacement).
• Arthroscopic surgery (minimally invasive surgery for joint injuries).
• Spine surgeries (e.g., laminectomy, spinal fusion).
• Fracture repair (using plates, rods, or screws).
• Ligament reconstruction (e.g., ACL repair).
• Carpal tunnel release and other nerve decompression surgeries.

An orthopaedist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, typically with non-surgical methods like therapy, injections, or medications. An orthopaedic surgeon can perform surgeries in addition to non-surgical treatments, making them qualified to handle more complex conditions requiring surgical intervention.

During your first visit, the orthopaedic surgeon will:

• Take a detailed medical history and ask about your symptoms.
• Perform a physical examination to assess mobility, strength, and pain points.
• Order imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) if necessary.
• Discuss treatment options, including lifestyle changes, therapy, medications, or surgery, depending on your diagnosis.

Recovery times vary depending on the procedure and patient health:

• Minimally invasive surgeries: Recovery typically takes 4-6 weeks.
• Joint replacement surgeries: Full recovery can take 3-6 months.
• Spinal surgeries or complex procedures: Recovery may take up to a year.
• Rehabilitation with physical therapy is often crucial for optimizing recovery.

Orthopaedic surgeons use a stepwise approach to treat arthritis, including:

• Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss, exercise, and joint-friendly activities.
• Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to reduce inflammation.
• Physical therapy: To improve joint flexibility and strength.
• Surgical options: Joint replacement surgery for severe cases.

To choose the right orthopaedic surgeon, consider:

• Board certification and specialized training in orthopaedics.
• Experience with the condition or procedure you need.
• Positive patient reviews and success rates.
• Hospital affiliations and access to advanced facilities.
• Their approach to treatment (conservative vs. surgical) and communication style.