When you have a problem with any of your bones, joints, or muscles, you see an orthopaedist. Orthopaedists are physicians who diagnose and treat these problems. Here are five things an orthopaedist can do for you.
X-Rays and Other Imaging Studies
Orthopaedists use imaging studies to look at your bones and joints in order to diagnose what is wrong and figure out the best way to fix it. X-rays are the most common type of imaging study used, but orthopaedists may also use MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computerized tomography) scans in some cases.
Imaging studies help orthopaedists get a clear picture of what is going on inside your body so that they can provide you with the most effective treatment possible. If you have any pain or other orthopaedic symptoms, be sure to ask your orthopaedist about getting an imaging study done.
Bracing
If you have a problem with alignment (how your bones line up), the orthopaedist may prescribe a brace. The brace helps keep your bones in the correct position while they heal. It also helps prevent your condition from getting worse. Orthopaedic bracing is a treatment option for alignment problems.
Orthopaedic braces are prescription devices that help keep bones in the correct position while they heal. They also help prevent your condition from getting worse. Orthopedics braces come in different sizes, shapes, and materials. The type of brace you need depends on your condition and how severe it is. They can be made from metal, plastic, or other materials and you may need to wear them for a few weeks or months. In some cases, you may need to wear it for life.
Casting
For some broken bones, the orthopaedist may put on a cast. The cast protects the bone as it heals by immobilizing the bone so that it heals in the correct position. The process of casting begins with taking an impression, or mould, of the limb. This is most commonly done with plaster, but fibreglass or other materials may also be used.
Once the mould hardens, it is cut away from the limb and used to create a negative mould. The negative mould is then filled with plaster or other casting material, and allowed to harden. Finally, the cast is trimmed and finished to provide a comfortable fit. With proper care, most casts can be worn for several weeks, until the bone has healed sufficiently.
Surgery
When non-surgical treatments are ineffective or the problem is severe, surgery may be recommended. Surgery can be done to repair a broken bone, replace a joint, or stop damage from occurring to joints or other structures in the body. The type of surgery will be based on the specific problem that needs to be addressed.
Before surgery, your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of the procedure and answer any questions you may have. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions before and after surgery to ensure a successful outcome.
Physical Therapy
After surgery or any other kind of treatment, physical therapy may be needed to help you regain strength and function in your bones, joints, or muscles. The therapist will design specific exercises for you to do to help achieve these goals. Physical therapy may be done in an outpatient setting or in a hospital, depending on your needs.
The orthopaedic physician, or orthopaedist, is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats problems with bones, joints, and muscles. orthopaedists use both surgical and nonsurgical methods to treat their patients. Some common conditions that orthopaedists treat are fractures, sprains and strains, back pain, arthritis, ACL tears, and tennis elbow.
If you have any problems with your bones, joints, or muscles, make an appointment to see an orthopaedist today. They are highly trained physicians who can help you get back to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
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Author: Kara Masterson
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
