If you have struggled with joint pain or an injury to the musculoskeletal system, it may be time to turn to the services of an orthopedic surgeon. Here are some of the conditions treated by these specialists.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a term used for diseases of the joints that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation, often leading to joint cartilage damage. This can make living daily life difficult, impacting a patient抯 ability to take care of his or her self. Patients with severe arthritis may not be able to walk comfortably, open jars or cans on their own, or even brush their teeth without pain. An orthopedic surgeon treats arthritis with medications, joint replacement surgery, and lifestyle changes.

Injuries

Injuries to the musculosckeletal system also send many patients to this type of specialist. Often these injuries are due to impact from high risk activities and sports. Ligament tears, for instance, often require the touch of an orthopedic surgeon to fully heal. Tendonitis, rotator cuff injuries, and other pulled or strained muscles also fall into the treatment range of these doctors.

Tumors

When tumors grow in or on the bones, it is usually an orthopedic surgeon who performs the surgery to remove them. The training these doctors have gives them the ability to treat this type of condition while preserving mobility as much as possible.

Joint Replacement

Joint replacement surgery is almost always performed by one of these specialists. While most joints can be replaced, the hip, elbow, and knee are some of the most common joints people have surgically replaced. If you have pain in one of these areas that has become so strong that you cannot function anymore, you may benefit from joint replacement surgery. Because the replacement joints do not last forever, doctors usually wait to perform this surgery until it is the only remaining viable option to relieve a patient抯 pain.

Broken Bones

The most common treatment performed by these doctors is the treatment of a broken bone. However, minor breaks do not necessarily require the help of a specialist. If you have a break that requires pins or surgery, or if a young child has broken a bone that is still growing, an orthopedic surgeon is the best option.

Before scheduling a consultation with any specialist, ask your insurance provider what you need to do. Sometimes you will need a referral from your primary care physician. If your injury is outside of his or her treatment expertise, getting a referral should not be difficult, and then you will have insurance coverage for any treatment from the specialist.