Orthopedics is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. This system includes your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. When you experience an injury or a chronic condition affecting these parts of your body, an orthopedic specialist provides care. Here is more information about subspecialties in orthopedics:
Arthroscopy Treatment
Arthroscopy is a procedure orthopedic surgeons use to look inside a joint. By making a small incision and inserting a tiny camera called an arthroscope, a surgeon is able to view the joint’s interior on a monitor. This technique allows for a detailed examination of the joint without the need for a large opening.
During an arthroscopic examination, the surgeon typically identifies the nature of the problem. If treatment is needed, special surgical instruments can be inserted through other small incisions. This approach is used for joints like the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, hip, and wrist.
Arthroscopy offers a way to diagnose and treat a variety of joint issues. Patients who undergo arthroscopy may experience less pain and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to reduce the risk of complications and allows individuals to return to their daily activities more quickly.
Sports Medicine
Sports medicine is a branch of orthopedics dedicated to physical fitness and the treatment of injuries related to sports and exercise. Specialists in this area help athletes and active individuals manage their health. A sports medicine specialist treats a range of conditions. These might include:
- Acute injuries like sprains, strains, and fractures.
- Overuse injuries such as tendonitis and stress fractures.
The goal is to help you recover from your injury and return to your activities safely. These doctors also provide guidance on injury prevention, nutrition, and exercise to support your overall physical well-being. Their work involves helping you stay active and perform at your best.
Shoulder Surgery
The shoulder is a complex joint in the body, and it is also prone to injury. Shoulder surgery is a subspecialty focused on addressing problems affecting this joint. Surgeons in this field have advanced training in treating a wide array of shoulder conditions.
Some issues that may lead to shoulder surgery include rotator cuff tears, instability or dislocation, and arthritis. The type of surgery performed depends on the specific diagnosis. For some, a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure may be enough. For others with more extensive damage, a more traditional open surgery or a joint replacement could be the recommended path.
Knee Surgery
Your knees are weight-bearing joints that endure a great deal of stress daily, and they may be susceptible to both injury and arthritis. Knee surgery is a specialized area of orthopedics that deals with diagnosing and treating conditions of the knee. Specialists perform several types of knee surgeries. Arthroscopic procedures are used for reconstructing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). For individuals with severe arthritis that causes pain and limits mobility, a total knee replacement may be an option.
Visit a Specialist in Orthopedics
The various disciplines within orthopedics provide focused care for nearly every part of the musculoskeletal system. Seeking help from a specialist is a positive step toward understanding your condition and exploring your treatment options. If you are experiencing pain or have an injury, schedule an appointment to speak with an orthopedic specialist today.
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