If you are experiencing pain in your bones, joints or muscles, you may need to see an orthopedic surgeon for an evaluation. The surgeon will ask about your symptoms and medical history during your appointment. They will also perform a physical examination. It may involve testing your range of motion and feeling for any tenderness or deformity. The medical professional may also recommend orthopedic surgery Clifton, NJ, in cases where the problem cannot be corrected with nonsurgical treatments.
An orthopedic surgeon is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. This includes the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves.
The surgeon may suggest imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, to help diagnose your condition. The surgeon may also recommend blood tests or a biopsy. Once the cause of your pain is determined, the orthopedic surgeon will develop a treatment plan. It may include medications, physical therapy, or, in some cases, surgery.
Apart from the stated examinations and tests, any patient must know the common conditions that an orthopedic surgeon can handle. Some of the severe and mild conditions include:
Back and neck pain
If you are experiencing pain in your back or neck, an orthopedic surgeon can help determine the cause and develop a treatment plan. The common causes of back and neck pain include herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis. A treatment plan to expect may include physical therapy, epidural injections, and, in some cases, surgery.
Shoulder pain
Shoulder pain can be caused by various conditions, including rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and frozen shoulder. An orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests to diagnose your condition. Some treatment options may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections; surgery may be necessary in some cases.
Elbow pain
Elbow pain is often caused by overuse injuries, such as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow. It can also be caused by arthritis or a fracture. An orthopedic surgeon will diagnose your condition based on your symptoms and medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as x-rays or MRIs. Some of the treatment solutions include rest, ice, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery is rarely necessary.
Hand and wrist pain
Hand and wrist pain can be caused by various conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and tendonitis. With this type of condition, an orthopedic surgeon will most likely order imaging tests and may also recommend a nerve conduction study. Treatment options may include splinting, corticosteroid injections, and surgery.
Hip pain
Hip pain can be caused by osteoarthritis, bursitis, and hip fractures. An orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination and order x-rays or other imaging tests to diagnose your condition. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications, and, in some cases, surgery.
Knee pain
Knee pain is often caused by injuries, such as ACL tears or meniscus tears. It can also be caused by osteoarthritis, gout, or bursitis. An orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests to diagnose your condition. Treatment options may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery may be necessary in some cases.
If you’re experiencing pain, contact your orthopedic surgeon at Garden State Pain & Orthopedics to schedule an appointment.
