Extreme joint or muscle pain can debilitate your quality of life. It can stem from an underlying health condition or an unexpected injury. Sometimes, surgery is the only path you can take to recover fully.
It’s essential to take time and research orthopedic surgery but thinking about it doesn’t have to be stressful. The more you know about it, the more you can prepare yourself for the path ahead. Let’s learn more about orthopedic surgery and where you can go for outstanding orthopedic care in Baltimore, MD.
1. It Focuses on the Musculoskeletal System
The human body has over 200 bones and 600 muscles. Each of them helps support your body’s weight and movement.
The branch of orthopedics specializes in the injuries and conditions of the joints, ligaments, bones, muscles, and nerves.
Have you had an injury or condition related to your neck, shoulder, elbow, knee, or foot? Your physician most likely recommended you see an orthopedic surgeon. They can perform treatments to alleviate pain and increase your quality of life.
2. It Treats Different Types of Injuries and Conditions
Since orthopedics focuses on the musculoskeletal system, its surgical arm aims to treat and alleviate pain from different body parts. Pain from a chronic illness or traumatic injury can benefit from orthopedic surgery.
However, this treatment remains reserved for severe cases where non-surgical procedures are not enough to target the damage.
Some of the injuries and conditions orthopedic surgery can target are:
- Arthritis – there is swelling and tenderness present in the joints
- Sciatica – pain traveling through the sciatic nerve, from the lower back to each leg
- Hip fracture – the bone experiences a sudden impact, causing it to break
3. There Are Different Kinds of Orthopedic Surgeons
Choosing your orthopedic surgeon is a significant step when considering surgery. The team involved in your operation affects its results and your recovery.
While all orthopedic doctors understand the musculoskeletal system, some choose to subspecialize. It is best to pick someone focusing on treating your injury or condition.
After your diagnosis with a general practitioner, they will often relay referrals for you to consider. You can verify your surgeon’s board certification through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
You should also check their credentials and experience through a consultation. Additionally, look for feedback from other patients and always get a second opinion.
4. Proper Diagnosis Is Essential
Orthopedic surgeons diagnose patients through physical examination and imaging tests. They will also rely on what you provide them, such as your medical history and lifestyle choices.
Once they have diagnosed your condition, they can recommend several treatment options.
Non-surgical treatments, such as pain medication and physical therapy, can help alleviate symptoms. Surgery can benefit you when non-surgical options no longer relieve or improve your condition.
5. It Can Be Outpatient
Outpatient surgery is when the patient does not need to stay overnight at the hospital. There are many benefits to it.
It is convenient for your recovery and generally has lower costs due to the lack of confinement. Scheduling is also predictable because the treatment is less complex. Another benefit of outpatient surgery is that it is less stressful for patients.
Some orthopedic surgeries that your doctor can perform on an outpatient basis are:
- Shoulder replacement – your surgeon removes damaged areas of the shoulder and replaces them with metal implants
- Arthroscopy – your provider creates tiny incisions to view and repair joint damage
- Kyphoplasty – your surgeon inserts special cement in the vertebrae to restore the spine’s natural shape
6. It Is the First Step in Long-Term Recovery
Healing after orthopedic surgery is individualized. A full recovery could take weeks to months, depending on your procedure.
Post-operative care starts by taking some time off to let your body heal. Your surgeon will give you general instructions and symptoms you need to spot while recuperating at home. Contact your physician if you experience pain, as it could be a sign of infection.
You can also call them if you have any questions about your medication.
Additionally, you can prepare for your post-surgery recovery by moving the furniture in your home and taking your medicine on time. Then, your doctor can recommend physical therapy to help strengthen your muscles and speed up recovery.
You may benefit from having a support system as you heal so you can focus on getting better.
Top Orthopedist Near You in Baltimore, MD
Are you looking for the top orthopedist near you in Baltimore? The Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland have your back regarding quality surgery. As the top orthopedics in Baltimore, our expert providers are trained and can determine the best treatment for you. For over 50 years, we have brought affordable, quality care through innovative technology and passionate service to all our patients.
Make an office appointment today at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics (odoro.com) or, you can call us at (410) 644-1880 or toll-free at (855) 4MD-BONE. If you are looking for physical therapy in Baltimore, you can contact (443) 478-4449.
We look forward to getting you back on your feet!
