Why am I being referred to an orthopedic surgeon?
You’ll be referred to an orthopedic surgeon if you’re dealing with a condition that affects your musculoskeletal system. This includes your bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Your doctor may refer you if you’ve suffered a dislocated joint, sustained a broken bone, have arthritis, or are dealing with chronic hip or back pain. Orthopedic surgeons diagnose and treat any acute, chronic, or degenerative condition affecting your musculoskeletal system.
What does an orthopedic surgeon examine?
An orthopedic surgeon examines your body for injuries or pain caused by certain health conditions. Depending on your injury or condition, they may examine your bones, joints, muscles, tendons, or ligaments for inflammation and other signs of damage.
They won’t examine your entire body, just the area where the problem occurs. A patient with chronic hip pain will have the joint and its surrounding connective tissues examined, while a patient with a broken arm will have only their arm examined.
When should I see an orthopedic surgeon?
You should see an orthopedic surgeon if you’re experiencing musculoskeletal pain. This can develop from a number of scenarios, including:
- Sports injuries
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis, tendonitis, or bursitis
- Back pain, spinal stenosis, or disc problems
- Broken bones or orthopedic traumas
- Ligament or tendon injuries in your ankle, knee, or other joints
- Carpal tunnel and hand injuries
- Hip dysplasia or bowed legs
What happens at an orthopedic surgeon appointment?
At your orthopedic surgeon appointment, the doctor performs a physical exam and asks you questions about your condition. Your orthopedic surgeon needs to know where the pain is located, the intensity of the pain, and how long you’ve been experiencing the problem.
They check for swelling, your range of motion, and your strength. The doctor needs to know your full medical history, especially if you’ve suffered from previous musculoskeletal injuries. They may use imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to help diagnose your health problem.
What questions should I ask my orthopedic surgeon?
You should ask your orthopedic surgeon questions that address your concerns. This may include asking about treatment options, what to expect from joint replacement, or how long you’ll be in the hospital if you need to have surgery. If you plan on surgery, you may also want to ask your doctor how long a full recovery takes and if you’ll need outpatient care or rehabilitation after your procedure.
Can I go straight to an orthopedic surgeon?
Some patients can benefit by going directly to an orthopedic surgeon. You’ll save time by scheduling an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon directly rather than getting a referral to one after seeing your primary care doctor. Your primary care doctor cannot treat moderate to severe orthopedic injuries.
Before deciding to go straight to an orthopedic surgeon, check with your insurance policy. Some require patients to get referrals from their primary care doctor to be eligible for coverage for orthopedic care.
How do I find a good orthopedic surgeon?
You can find a good orthopedic surgeon by asking for referrals. Your primary care doctor should provide a list of candidates for you to research and choose from.
Close friends and family members that have undergone orthopedic surgeries may also have good recommendations for you. You can also search hospitals and directories in your area to find orthopedic surgeons. Find reviews and study their credentials to help you choose.
