Bones play an essential role in our bodies. Besides providing the much-needed support, bones help in forming and maintaining body shape. Others, such as the skull and ribs, protect vital organs. More significantly, they help in the mobility and performance of everyday activities. If you have a disorder of the joints, ligaments, bones, muscles, or tendons, you should see an orthopedic surgeon or orthopedic physician.

What Is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

These surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system. While some orthopedists are generalists, others specialize in specific areas, such as the spine, hips, knees, hands, feet, ankles, shoulders, or elbows.

They treat patients of all ages, from the elderly to newborns. They are highly trained to treat a wide variety of conditions, including fractures, sports injuries, joint replacement, and spinal deformity.

Do You Need to See an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Sometimes, we live with joint, tendon, and muscle pain, hoping that the condition will improve with time. However, some of these aches are signs that you need an urgent orthopedic checkup.

Here are the four main indicators of a musculoskeletal condition that requires urgent orthopedic care:

Shoulder Pain

Mild shoulder pain could be caused by repetitive use of the arm. Such aching usually disappears when you take a rest. However, if the pain worsens at night or when working, it could be a sign of tendonitis. The tendons could be inflamed by an injury or repetitive motion.

Painful Joints

Normally, joints don't ache, and if they do, something is wrong. If pain lasts for three to six months, it could signal inflammation of the joints. It could also be possible that the bones are rubbing together.

Swollen Joints

Sometimes, joints don't ache, but they swell. The swelling is mainly characterized by tenderness or stiffness, mainly on the shoulders, hips, elbows, and feet. In most cases, a swollen joint is a sign of bursitis.

Worsening Injury

If you are involved in an accident, you might have a fracture, mainly on the arms, legs, spine, and hips. Sometimes, fractures heal with time, even without surgery. However, if they take a long time to heal, you need to see an orthopedic surgeon for a detailed evaluation.

Conclusion

If you have a condition that affects your musculoskeletal system, your primary care provider's help is limited. They can only provide emergency first-aid care and then refer you to a bone specialist. So, it's advisable to seek specialized care from an orthopedic surgeon or orthopedic physician.