Who is an Orthopedic Doctor? - What do They do

Orthopaedics is a field of medicine that deals with the care of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system mainly consists of bones, muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons.
A person who is specialised in orthopaedics is known as an orthopedist. They use surgical and non-surgical techniques to treat musculoskeletal-related conditions, which include sports injury, joint pain, and back pain.

To become an orthopaedic doctor, a person must:

1. Complete higher secondary schooling in science, with biology as the main subject.
2. Graduate from an accredited medical school (recognised by the Medical Council of India) with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. MBBS is for 5.5 years which comprises 4.5 years of academic studies and a one-year internship.
3. Graduate with an MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery) or a DNB (Diplomate of National Board) in orthopaedics.
4. After completing this postgraduate degree, one can practice as an orthopaedic surgeon.

The job of an orthopaedic doctor, often referred to as an orthopaedic surgeon focuses on musculoskeletal issues. They are responsible for the following:
Initially evaluating the situation and diagnosing the musculoskeletal problem affecting the patient.

1. Providing the best treatment options. The orthopaedic doctor may not recommend a surgical option unless mandatory due to the increased risks and associated costs.
2. Helps in rehabilitation that helps the patient regain flexibility, strength, and range of motion after an accident or surgery. 
3. Strategies to prevent the worsening of chronic conditions such as arthritis. 

All orthopaedic doctors have great knowledge about all the musculoskeletal parts. However, some of them choose to specialize further. These specialists include:

1. Spine
2. Hip and knee
3. Hand
4. Shoulder and elbow
5. Foot and ankle
6. Sports medicine
7. Trauma surgery

Orthopaedic doctors/surgeons help manage a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, such as:

1. Fractures or broken bones (such as a broken wrist or fractured ankle).
2. Muscle strains
3. Multiple types of chronic joint and back pain
4. Orthopaedic conditions such as osteoporosis, bursitis, and arthritis.
5. Injuries to tendons or ligaments, such as sprains, tendonitis, and ACL tears
6. Limb abnormalities, such as clubfoot and bowlegs
7. Issues like carpal tunnel syndrome 
8. Serious issues like bone cancer

Orthopaedic doctors are trained specialists in providing the best treatment for the musculoskeletal problem diagnosed. The type of treatment includes non-surgical and surgical treatments. 

Non-Surgical Treatment Methods

Some of the non-surgical alternatives recommended by orthopaedic doctors are

1. Exercises: Specific exercises and stretches recommended by the orthopaedic doctor help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, thus reducing pain.
2. Immobilization: Orthopaedic doctors, in some cases, use immobilization techniques such as braces, splints, and casts to prevent additional stress in the injured area and also for fast recovery.
3. Medications: Moderate swelling and pain can be managed with the help of over-the-counter medicines such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids.
4. Lifestyle Changes: The orthopaedic doctor may also help the patient make modifications in his/her lifestyle to prevent the worsening of the injury. These lifestyle changes include physical activities and dietary habits.

Surgical Treatment Methods

In case the condition is not healing by medications and exercise, the orthopaedic doctors may then suggest surgery to the patient. Some common surgical operations done by an orthopaedic doctor are as follows:

1. Arthroscopic surgery: In this surgery, an arthroscope (instrument with a camera) is used to visualise the inside of the joint. They're commonly performed for the treatment of meniscus tears, Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears, and rotator cuff tears.
2. Replacement of joint: Total joint replacement, also known as arthroplasty, refers to replacing the worn-out cartilage and bone tissues with a prosthesis. Hip and knee replacement surgeries fall under this category. These surgeries have a very high success rate, and the patient may resume his/her daily activities within a few days.
3. Osteotomy: It refers to the cutting off of a bone followed by its repositioning. For example, the osteotomy is a possible treatment option for patients with early osteoarthritis. In such patients, only one side of the knee joint is affected. 
4. Fracture repair surgery: This is one of the most common surgeries orthopaedic surgeons perform. In fracture repair surgeries, the surgeon approximates the bones and uses nails and plates to hold them in one place.
5. Repair soft tissues: These surgeries treat damaged ligaments, tendons, and muscles. One popular example is the tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament in footballers. 
6. Repair disc prolapses: Disc prolapse is a common problem many people in India face. The disc is the strong connective tissue between the vertebrae (bones forming the spine). Due to unexpected, heavy pressure on the spine, the discs can get prolapsed, resulting in back pain or neck pain, depending upon the location. 

It is essential to keep a few points in mind while looking for an orthopaedic doctor. These include:

1. Try to get referrals from your friends, family or co-workers. This will give you a headstart for starting your research on orthopaedic doctors. 
2. Once you get the names, look out for their previous work experience and credentials. If the doctor has already treated conditions similar to yours, he can treat you too. 
3. Search for reviews given by previous patients, as it can be a reliable way to know about the doctor. 
4. Researching the doctor extensively is necessary for one’s safety. This will ensure that the treatment goes on properly and gives a positive outcome.

The following symptoms are frequently encountered and indicate seeking help from an orthopaedic doctor:

1. Pain in one or more joints that persists for more than 3 to 5 days
2. Swelling that persists for more than 3 to 5 days
3. Decrease in mobility and problems in continuing day-to-day work
4. Tingling or numbing sensation, which is often caused by nerve damage
5. Fractures due to road traffic accidents or sports

Now that you’re well informed about what orthopaedic is and who are orthopaedic doctors/surgeons, you can make an informed decision according to your health condition are experiencing. You can ask your primary healthcare provider to refer you to an orthopaedic doctor. 

You can also contact our team to know more about what an orthopaedic doctor does. HexaHealth ensures every patient gets the deserved medical help. We have a network of qualified orthopaedic doctors and medical experts to help you during difficult times. Contact us and book an appointment TODAY!