Some pain is normal after long hours of training or working. However, chronic pain that doesn’t subside should be evaluated and treated by an orthopedic doctor, as this type of physician specializes in treating joint pain and muscle pain.
Orthopedic doctors know how to assess and treat your injury or pain efficiently, without wasting your time. These are the physicians who can easily move into the role of a sports doctor for an athletic team, and so they are thoroughly versed in all things involving the musculoskeletal system – the muscles, bones, and all ancillary structures. Plus, they can also address sports injuries such as concussions.
Let’s talk about some of the main things that orthopedic doctors can diagnose and treat, and where you can go here in Raleigh for world-class orthopedic care.
What Do Orthopedic Surgeons Do?
Orthopedic surgeons are experts in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, from joint pain to sports injuries. They provide both surgical and non-surgical treatment options to help patients regain function, mobility, and quality of life.
Diagnosing Musculoskeletal Conditions
Orthopedic surgeons evaluate patients’ medical history, physical condition, and symptoms to accurately diagnose various musculoskeletal issues. These conditions may include arthritis, fractures, and soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and ligament tears. They use their extensive medical education and specialized fellowship training to pinpoint the source of a patient’s pain or discomfort accurately.
Performing Surgeries to Address Orthopedic Injuries
As skilled surgeons, orthopedic specialists perform a wide range of surgical procedures to address musculoskeletal problems. These surgeries may include joint replacement, arthroscopy, and spinal fusion. Through these procedures, orthopedic surgeons help patients regain function and alleviate pain, improving their overall quality of life.
Providing Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Orthopedic surgeons also provide non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions. They may prescribe medications, recommend physical therapy, administer injections, or suggest bracing to manage pain and improve mobility. By offering a variety of treatment options, orthopedic surgeons can tailor their approach to each patient’s unique condition and needs.
Guiding Rehabilitation and Recovery Post-Surgery
After surgery or injury, orthopedic surgeons often guide patients through rehabilitation programs to ensure a safe and effective recovery. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and primary care providers, to create personalized rehabilitation plans. Additionally, orthopedic surgeons may advise on injury prevention strategies to minimize the risk of future complications, helping patients maintain their mobility and overall well-being.
Common Conditions Diagnosed and Treated by Orthopedic Surgeons
Orthopedic surgeons, also known as orthopedists, diagnose and treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. Their goal is to treat issues affecting the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
Arthritis – A Prevalent Musculoskeletal Condition
Arthritis is a condition that causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. There are several types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis is the most common. Often referred to simply as “arthritis,” osteoarthritis can affect individuals of all ages, from young athletes to older adults. This condition develops due to wear and tear on the protective cartilage within a joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is another form of arthritis that can spread to other areas of the body, such as the eyes, skin, and heart. As an autoimmune condition, RA often first appears in the joints.
Repetitive Strain Injuries – The Result of Overuse
Orthopedic surgeons frequently diagnose repetitive strain injuries in workers or athletes who overuse specific body parts. To prevent these injuries, it is essential to take breaks and allow your muscles and joints to rest.
Common repetitive strain injuries diagnosed by orthopedic specialists include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (wrist and hand injury)
- Jumper’s knee
- Rotator cuff tears (shoulder injury)
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Sever’s disease (heel pain in young athletes)
- Shin splints (lower-leg injury)
These conditions occur due to excessive or repetitive physical pressure on the tendons, muscles, bones, and nerves. An orthopedic surgeon will provide expert advice on how to promote healing as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Spine Conditions – Causes of Neck and Back Pain
Neck and back pain may indicate underlying spine conditions, such as a pinched nerve or a ruptured or slipped disc. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat these conditions before the pain worsens. Treatment options may include physician-administered pain-relief injections into the spine, offering immediate and long-lasting relief.
Orthopedic Doctors for Joint Pain Treatment in Raleigh, North Carolina
An orthopedic physician specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating issues involving the musculoskeletal system – which comprises the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other adjacent supportive structures. Our own Dr. Brett Gilbert is one of the most highly skilled and experienced orthopedic doctors in Raleigh who you can rely on for a proper diagnosis and treatment that works for you.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gilbert, contact our caring staff today by calling us at (919) 788-8797 or by filling out our easy-to-use online request form now. We look forward to serving you!
