Signs You Need to Visit an Orthopedist

You might be hoping that your aches and pains will go away on their own, or think that you can just tough it out. However, an orthopedic doctor can help you find a treatment that offers lasting relief while also stifling the pain in its tracks. An orthopedist is a physician who specializes in musculoskeletal health, which involves the muscles, bones, and all of the tissues that support them.

Why Would I Need to See an Orthopedist?

It is in your best interest to see an orthopedist if you are experiencing one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

Decreased Mobility

As we get older, decreased mobility caused by stiffness or weakness usually occurs in the mornings or after prolonged periods of sitting or lying down. However, do not ignore these signs as an inevitable part of aging – your orthopedic doctor can help to alleviate these symptoms so you can keep moving and enjoy an active lifestyle, which is healthy for your whole body.

Persistent Pain

Pain that does not improve or is getting worse is probably one of the most compelling reasons to see an orthopedist for an evaluation and treatment. Pain is a signal that something is wrong and warrants medical attention; in a musculoskeletal context, chronic pain usually means that something is torn, broken, or pulled. Persistent pains may be a symptom of arthritis, a strain (injured muscle or tendon), a sprain (injured ligament), or torn cartilage (such as a torn meniscus in the knee).

Joint Swelling

Another sign that warrants an orthopedic evaluation is swelling, especially when it is accompanied by pain. Swelling happens when tissues become inflamed.

Inflammation can occur when there is an infection, fluid buildup in a joint, or injury. Swelling is also a common symptom of arthritis, in which case the precise type of arthritis should be diagnosed in order to obtain treatment that works.

Potential Fracture

A fracture can happen when a bone breaks or cracks after being placed under too much pressure. Fractures can occur due to blunt-force trauma, repetitive-motion injury (in which a bone is constantly or repetitively placed under stress), or degenerative bone diseases such as osteoporosis. Symptoms of a fracture may include the following:

  • Intense and sharp pain
  • Swelling
  • Bleeding
  • Bruising
  • Numbness

Orthopedic Care in Columbia, Maryland

If you experience any injury or symptoms in your muscles, bones, or joints, you should see an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Treatment can help you to prevent further progression or even heal the issue completely. You don’t have to endure your pain any longer, and the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland is here to help you find the answers.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our highly experienced orthopedists, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (410) 644-1880 or (855) 4MD-BONE (463-2663), or by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to serving you!