What is General Orthopedics?
Our musculoskeletal system is a complex system comprising of bone, cartilage, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and skin. General orthopedics is the field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and a variety of orthopedic conditions. Physicians who work in this field of medicine are referred to as orthopedists or orthopedic doctors. These are medical experts who have undergone extensive training in the field of General Orthopedics and can offer their expertise in the treatment and management of various orthopedic disorders and provide effective orthopedic guidance and education regarding the prevention of orthopedic injuries and diseases.
Role of an Orthopedic Doctor
A general orthopedist’s role is to evaluate, diagnose, treat, and manage individuals who suffer from degenerative orthopedic diseases, skeletal deformities, or various injuries pertaining to the musculoskeletal system. General orthopedists also work with individuals who have fractures or require surgery. Whether the problem is in the hip, knee, spine, or any joint, a general orthopedist can provide orthopedic care that is customized to the anatomy and goals of each patient. The main objective of an orthopedist is to restore mobility, function, and quality of life to every patient.
Scope of General Orthopedics
General orthopedics is a medical specialty with immense potential and is the foundation of all advanced and specialized training in different areas of Orthopedics. General orthopedic doctors can offer care and treat a wide variety of orthopedic diseases and conditions, such as:
- Dislocations and fractures
- Sprains and strains
- Torn ligaments, pulled muscles, and tendon injuries
- Bursitis, arthritis, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and osteoporosis
- Low back pain, sciatica, ruptured discs, and scoliosis
- Hammertoes, bunions, bow legs and knock knees
- Leg length discrepancy and club foot
- Growth abnormalities and abnormalities of the fingers and toes
When Should You Visit a General Orthopedist?
Orthopedic conditions can trigger a variety of symptoms. You should consult your orthopedic doctor if you are experiencing:
- Chronic pain
- Joint instability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Muscle spasms
- Numbness or tingling sensation
- Difficulty walking
- Swelling in the affected joint
- Sharp, stabbing pain
- Inability to bear weight on the affected joint
- Limited range of motion of the hip, knee, ankle, or another joint
- Radiating pain from one section of the body to another
- Worsening pain that does not get better
Summary
General orthopedics is a medical specialty that emphasizes the treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Some of these conditions may be present at birth or may occur as a result of orthopedic trauma or age-related wear and tear. Orthopedists most commonly works and coordinate with a wider orthopedic team that may involve nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical or occupational therapists, and athletic trainers. Collectively, they help diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate individuals with musculoskeletal injuries or conditions to provide comprehensive orthopedic care.