5 Signs You Need to See an Orthopedic Doctor

An orthopedic doctor, or simply, an orthopedist, is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. 
Orthopedic doctors use a range of techniques to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, from arthritis and tendonitis to fractures and sprains. But how do you know if you should see an orthopedic doctor? Here are some signs to watch out for.
1) Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a form of pain that continues for a long period of time. It may be constant or intermittent, and can interfere with one’s ability to complete everyday tasks. Common causes of chronic pain include conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, sciatica, and nerve damage. If the pain is severe and does not respond to home treatments, it is important to see an orthopedic doctor. 
An orthopedic doctor can diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the pain, as well as prescribe medications and therapies to help manage the pain. Other signs that one should seek medical attention include persistent pain, swelling, and changes in range of motion.
2) Difficulty Performing Everyday Tasks
Difficulty performing everyday tasks can be due to an injury, arthritis, or another medical condition that affects your mobility. 
If you are having trouble with basic tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, or lifting objects, then it is a good idea to seek medical attention from an orthopedic specialist. They will be able to assess your condition and provide treatment if necessary.
3) Limited Range of Motion
This is when you are unable to move your joints, muscles, and tendons with full range of motion. 
This can be caused by a variety of injuries or conditions and can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility. If you are experiencing limited range of motion, it is important to see an orthopedic doctor to better understand the underlying cause and how to best treat it.
4) Fracture
A fracture occurs when a bone or other hard tissue inside the body is broken. You can have fractures in any part of the body and can range from minor cracks in the bone to severe shattering. 
The most common signs of a fracture include pain, swelling, and bruising. In some cases, the broken bone may even be visible through the skin. It is important to seek medical attention for a fracture, as failure to do so can lead to more serious complications.
5) Experiencing Orthopedic Trauma
Experiencing orthopedic trauma can be a very traumatic experience. It can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving the affected area. It can also lead to long-term complications such as arthritis and chronic pain. If you have experienced a traumatic event that has caused you pain, swelling, and difficulty moving, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. 
An orthopedic doctor can help diagnose the injury and develop a treatment plan to help you recover. They can also provide advice on how to prevent re-injury and protect yourself from further damage.
Conclusion
It is important to note that prevention and treatment are the best approaches to ensure healthy bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Therefore, it is advisable to speak to your primary doctor to determine whether you should see an orthopedic doctor.
Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists can help you take care of your ailments in no time. We are arthritis and total joint specialists with expertise in treating medical conditions such as this. Get in touch with us today to learn how.