Nearly one-third of all people in the United States have some type of musculoskeletal disorder – and that number is rising.
Some of the most prevalent orthopedic issues include:
- Back and neck pain
- Bursitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Hip fractures
- Osteoarthritis
- Torn meniscus
However, the good news is that most of these conditions are treatable with either surgical or nonsurgical procedures. In fact, most people will need to see an orthopedic specialist at some point in their lives.
Let’s learn more about orthopedic care and where you can go for outstanding orthopedic care in Watertown, New York.
What It Takes to Be an Orthopedic Specialist
Orthopedic medicine involves treating the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and nerves). However, there is often some confusion over exactly which conditions an orthopedic surgeon treats.
For example, not every type of shoulder indicates a rotator cuff tear, and not every case of back pain is due to a muscle strain. Your orthopedic treatment will vary depending on the type of problem you have. The first step in obtaining effective orthopedic care is to find an orthopedic specialist who can accurately diagnose your specific problem and offer the appropriate course of treatment.
Although some undergo additional medical training to perform specialized procedures, orthopedic surgeons generally spend most of their time treating patients in an outpatient clinic. Others work in emergency rooms, caring for patients in hospital wards, while others still can be found on the sidelines of sporting events.
To become an orthopedic surgeon, one must complete approximately 10 years of schooling and post-college training, and – even then – many surgeons elect to sub-specialize within orthopedics, which requires further training and certification.
The Benefits of Orthopedic Care
Not every patient with an orthopedic condition is seen by an orthopedic specialist. Nevertheless, it is the most common reason people seem medical care. In addition to determining the precise source of chronic or acute joint or muscle pain, an orthopedic doctor offers multiple benefits, such as:
Helping to Reduce or Eliminate your Pain Due to an Orthopedic Condition.
Typical treatments include bracing, corticosteroid and hydrocortisone injections, viscosupplementation, and physical therapy.
Restoring Normal Joint Function and Range of Motion Following an Injury or Due to a Condition Such as Arthritis.
An orthopedic specialist can diagnose your specific issue and recommend therapies that improve your joint functionality.
Improving Your Athletic Performance.
An orthopedic doctor specializing in sports medicine can diagnose and treat injuries for those who are physically active and more susceptible to various types of injuries and conditions requiring quicker recovery. In addition, a sports medicine physician can create a personalized plan to help enhance the performances of professional and amateur athletes to minimize the negative long-term effects of rigorous physical activity.
Providing Surgical Treatment If and When It Is Needed
If conservative treatment measures fail to relieve pain and improve your mobility, an orthopedic surgeon can resort to advanced, minimally invasive techniques to resolve your musculoskeletal issues and restore normal function. Surgical procedures are often performed in an outpatient setting, thus enabling you to recover at home on the same day.
Watertown, NY Orthopedic Group
If you are suffering from any form of musculoskeletal discomfort or limited range of motion, the board-certified orthopedic surgeons at North Country Orthopaedic Group in Watertown, New York, can provide you with a thorough evaluation and an effective custom treatment plan.
Our multi-specialty practice is devoted to your musculoskeletal health, offering the most advanced nonsurgical and surgical services to provide a comprehensive approach to your care.
For more information, contact us today at (315) 782-1650. If you want to arrange a consultation, use our convenient online Request an Appointment form.
We look forward to helping relieve your pain and restore your mobility.
