The center of medicine that specifically deals with conditions that impact the musculoskeletal system is known as Orthopedics. The field of Orthopedics takes care of the below areas:
- Musculo skeletal structures
- Ligaments
- Tendons
- Bone articulations
Orthopedic often known as orthopedic physicians, are medical professionals who specialize in treating injuries and conditions related to the musculoskeletal system.
This article will provide an in-depth exploration of the responsibilities and specialties of orthopedic doctors, be it surgical or non surgical orthopedic treatment, the medical conditions they address, and the methods for selecting an appropriate orthopedic specialist.
What is Orthopaedics?
Orthopedics originated as a medical specialty focused on the treatment of children suffering from severe and incapacitating illnesses. Hence, it is logical that the term “orthopedic” originates from the Greek words “ortho,” which signifies straight, and “pais,” which denotes children or pediatric. Orthopedic physicians currently provide medical care to individuals across all age groups.
In many ways, individuals encounter joint discomfort at some stage in their existence, and a significant number of individuals sustain musculoskeletal injuries that necessitate medical intervention. If your injury necessitates expert diagnosis and treatment, it is probable that you will be referred to an orthopedic physician.
What Do Orthopedists Do?
An orthopedic doctor, sometimes known as orthopedic surgeons, specialize in addressing musculoskeletal conditions. Their responsibilities encompass:
- Assessing and managing disorders that impact your musculoskeletal system
- Providing rehabilitation assistance to aid in the recovery of movement, strength, range of motion, and flexibility after an injury or surgical procedure.
- Developing tactics to mitigate the risk of harm or to manage chronic ailments, such as arthritis, and avoid their deterioration.
- Although orthopedic specialists possess knowledge of all components of the musculoskeletal system, certain individuals opt to pursue greater specialization. Subspecialties within the field of orthopedics encompass:
- Vertebral column
- Hip and knee
- Manus
- Shoulder and elbow
- Lower extremity comprising the foot and the ankle.
- Orthopedic medicine
- Surgical treatment of injuries or wounds caused by severe physical or psychological trauma.
- Enhance flexibility
The presence of pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints might lead to a reduction in your ability to move them. When this happens, it might be challenging to carry out everyday activities, such as taking a shower, tidying up, bending down, and so on. Orthopedic physicians facilitate the restoration of normal range of motion through physical therapy or alternative therapeutic interventions. Occasionally, surgical intervention becomes necessary.
Areas Looked After By Orthopaedic Surgeons
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Manage and Avoid Injuries
Orthopedic specialists frequently address a range of disorders including broken bones, compression fractures, stress fractures, dislocations, muscle strains, and tendon rips or ruptures. Orthopedic physicians are capable of devising a comprehensive treatment and preventative strategy to mitigate the risk of future injuries.
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Orthopedists can facilitate the execution of daily activities
Numerous individuals are willing to endure and tolerate discomfort, restricted range of motion, stiffness, and other bothersome symptoms that do not necessarily hinder their daily activities. However, when one encounters challenges in carrying out routine activities such as reaching for an item to place it in a cabinet, bending down to retrieve something from the floor, or just getting out of bed or going for a stroll, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
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Orthopedic physicians determine if surgical intervention is necessary
Certain individuals may avoid undergoing surgical orthopedics treatment, with the assumption that medical intervention will not be beneficial, and that they should instead manage the discomfort and impairment independently. Some individuals perceive their discomfort as a typical consequence of becoming older that they should merely acknowledge, and they hold the belief that surgery should be limited to evident injuries. There is a prevalent notion that surgeons would invariably advocate for surgery, even in cases when it is not essential.
Surgery is indicated solely when conservative therapy methods have proven ineffective or when conservative alternatives are unlikely to yield positive outcomes. Individualized care is tailored to the unique needs of each patient, with the ultimate objective of enhancing their overall quality of life.
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Orthopedic doctors are able to offer the expert opinion of a specialist
Another motive for individuals seeking orthopedic care is to obtain the expert assessment, or a secondary assessment, from a specialist. Seeking advice from professionals who encounter ailments or injuries similar to yours on a daily basis is always a wise decision.
Difference Between A Rheumatologist & Orthopedist
Many treatments differ between rheumatologists and orthopedists.
Rheumatologists diagnose and treat joint, muscle, and connective tissue illnesses like arthritis. In contrast, an orthopedist diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal diseases, such as bone, muscle, ligament, tendon, and joint injuries.
Orthopedic surgeons perform surgery, not rheumatologists.
Orthopedics treats trauma, congenital anomalies, and tissue degradation. Rheumatologists treat systemic diseases such lupus, vasculitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and unusual inherited ailments.
Rheumatologists and orthopedic doctors often work together to treat rheumatoid arthritis, giving a holistic approach.
At Thambay University Hospital, the best orthopedic hospital in UAE, our utmost commitment is to ensure that each patient receives the appropriate treatment at the optimal moment across all our locations, including Ajman, Dubai, and Sharjah.