Orthopaedic & Trauma

A person who specializes in orthopedics is known as an orthopedist. Orthopedists use surgical and nonsurgical approaches to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as sports injuries, joint pain, and back problems.

This article provides an overview of orthopedics. It outlines the different conditions that orthopedists treat and explains what a person can expect during an orthopedic appointment

There are generally two types of orthopedists: surgical and nonsurgical. The former are called orthopedic surgeons, while nonsurgical orthopedists include physiatrists and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists

Orthopedists treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions may be present from birth, or they may result from an injury or age-related wear and tear.

A vital decision that a person has to make before an orthopedic surgery is choosing a licensed and accredited surgeon from a competent professional association.

An orthopedist will often perform X-rays in-office, allowing them to diagnose certain conditions during a person’s appointment. They may also deliver injections, such as corticosteroid injections to relieve inflammation, and perform ultrasound scans.

Some acute injuries, such as fractures and dislocations, require the orthopedist to manipulate the bone or joint and immobilize it using a splint, cast, or brace.