When we hear of orthopedics, what we immediately imagine is crushed bones. While orthopedics indeed deals with bones and the various injuries that may affect the bones, it isn抰 only about these. As a...

When we hear of orthopedics, what we immediately imagine is crushed bones. While orthopedics indeed deals with bones and the various injuries that may affect the bones, it isn抰 only about these. As a matter of fact, an orthopedic doctor can deal with all kinds of injuries and illnesses that may affect the entire musculoskeletal system which includes all the bones and muscles in the body.

You may perhaps think that illnesses or injuries related to the bones are very common and may be experienced by anyone anytime, but does it mean we should consult an orthopedic surgeon in these cases? Well, orthopedic surgeons are specialists, which means that you will just be referred to this kind of doctor if your condition requires specialist attention. But then again, it is also wrong to think that you need to have a life-threatening illness or injury for you to need the help of an orthopedic surgeon.

- Arthritis, for one, is an illness that commonly requires the attention of a specialist in orthopedics. This condition leads to stiffness, inflammation and severe pain to the joints. In many cases, those who are suffering from arthritis are found to be having damages to their joint cartilage as well. In its worst condition, arthritis can hamper a person抯 ability to move properly and perform simple and basic daily activities. At first, the patient may be advised to try some non-surgical methods, such as lifestyle change. But for more severe conditions, surgery may be necessary, such as hip replacement.

- If you are an athlete, there is also a chance that you will need the help of an orthopedic specialist. This is particularly true when you get injured doing sports or highly physical activities. Some of the most common injuries that may affect those who are engaged in sports are knee injuries, cuff injuries, and strained or pulled muscles. These injuries could be mild or could also be career-ending injuries. By visiting an orthopedic surgeon right away, certain treatments could be done to prevent further damage to the affected areas.

- Another condition that typically requires the expertise of an orthopedic doctor is tumors. Specifically, these doctors can deal with those tumors growing on or within the bones. The common treatment for this is surgical removal. Orthopedic surgeons are specially trained to get rid of the tumor while at the same time trying to preserve the patient抯 mobility.

- Orthopedic surgeons are also the ones who can provide the necessary treatment or surgery for dislocated, crushed or broken bones. It is important to note, however, that not all patients with broken bones are referred to these surgeons. There are some minor injuries that can actually be treated or dealt with by a general physician. If it is a child who has the bone injury, no matter how slight it may be, it is recommended to seek a pediatric orthopedic doctor. The reason for this is that children抯 bones are yet to fully develop. And so, only an orthopedic specialist can ensure that a certain injury will not have a permanent effect on the child抯 bones.