An orthopedist (or orthopedic surgeon) is a physician who specializes in caring for the musculoskeletal system, which includes the muscles, bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments. Orthopedic treatment centers on surgical and nonsurgical techniques for medical disorders caused by injury, congenital conditions, or degeneration with age (for example, arthritis). This distinguishes it from rheumatological medicine, which deals with systemic diseases which also affect the musculoskeletal system (for example, lupus). Orthopedic surgeons are extensively educated, completing four years of medical school, a five- to seven-year residency, and additional years of training in various specialties. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by a professional governing body.

What Does an Orthopedist Do?

Orthopedists diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal symptoms and conditions, including arthritis, bursitis, congenital disorders, certain cancers, back and neck pain, sprains, tendinitis, scoliosis, and athletic injuries. They accomplish this through doctor-patient interaction, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, prescribing medications, and arranging for surgical procedures and other specialized medical care. Orthopedic surgery includes procedures for the hands, feet, ankles, hips and spine, as well as joint replacements, trauma care, and sport injury operations. Nonsurgical procedures include joint injections, medical devices such as splints, slings, braces, and casts, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

What Types of Orthopedists Are There?

Orthopedists generally specialize by medical condition or procedure. Included among the specialties are:

• Upper-extremity surgery (arms and hands)
• Lower-extremity surgery (ankles and feet)
• Back and spinal surgery
• Joint reconstructions and replacements
• Trauma procedures
• Orthopedic oncology (bone cancers)
• Sports medicine
• Pediatric surgery

When Should You See an Orthopedist?

You should see an orthopedist whenever you experience symptoms commonly associated with a musculoskeletal condition:

• Joint pain
• Grinding or popping noises in the joints
• Discoloration that is warm to the touch
• Numbness
• Inflammation and stiffness
• Movement restriction

Traumatic injury involving bones and muscles typically requires treatment by an orthopedic specialist.

What Can I Expect at My Visit to the Orthopedist?

If you undergo a traumatic injury, your first contact with an orthopedist could come through a visit to an emergency room or urgent care center. If you are suffering from a chronic condition, your first visit might be arranged by your primary care physician. The orthopedist will conduct a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and record your family history. He or she will also order any necessary tests, including imaging scans of the bones or joints in question.

On confirming a diagnosis, your orthopedist can prescribe medications that are appropriate for your condition and arrange for any additional specialist care. This may include surgical or nonsurgical remedies (or both), depending on circumstances.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health orthopedics team can help you stand strong.