General orthopaedics

Orthopaedics is a medical speciality focused on diagnosing and treating conditions, disorders, and injuries of the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons.

The field of orthopaedics is extensive, so most surgeons specialise in a particular area. These speciality areas include but are not limited to the following:

• Foot and ankle surgery
• Hip and knee replacement
• Shoulder and elbow surgery
• Spine surgery
• Hand surgery

Typically, you would see an orthopaedic surgeon after your primary care doctor has referred you to them. The type of orthopaedic surgeon you will see is dependent on the type of medical condition you have.

What are the most common reasons to see an orthopaedic surgeon?

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your joints, muscles or bones, especially when you move, you may need to see an orthopaedic surgeon. Additionally, any serious injury that diminishes your range of motion might require the attention of an orthopaedic surgeon, especially if you are an athlete.

Some typical injuries that may require treatment include:

• Torn or ruptured ligaments
• Torn or broken tendons
• Broken bones that won't heal with just a cast
• Spine or hip fractures

There are long-term illnesses that may require the help of an orthopaedic surgeon too. They include:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Chronic muscle and joint pain
• Benign tumours
• Cancerous tumours originating in the bone
• Cancerous tumours that have spread to the bone

What can I expect when visiting an orthopaedic surgeon?

At your first visit, your orthopaedic surgeon will go through your medical history and discuss the symptoms you are experiencing. Then, they may run a series of tests to diagnose your condition, including physical tests, X-rays or MRIs.

Once you have received a diagnosis, your doctor will discuss your treatment plan, including surgery, medication, or physical therapy.