Orthopedic surgeons treat conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, joints, and soft tissues. Joint replacement is one subspecialty within this field, and it focuses on restoring damaged joints. Some surgeons complete extra training in this area, while others treat a wider range of conditions, so patients may see providers with different areas of specialization. Their work also includes nonsurgical and surgical care.
Treating Musculoskeletal Conditions
Orthopedic surgeons diagnose and treat a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions. They manage arthritis, sports injuries, bone fractures, and back pain, and they also address congenital defects such as clubfoot and hip dysplasia. Osteoarthritis also falls within their scope. Because the condition affects joint cartilage, orthopedic surgeons use different treatment approaches based on the diagnosis, and some patients eventually discuss joint replacement.
Orthopedic surgeons complete up to 14 years of medical training. This path includes 4 years of undergraduate study and 4 years of medical school, and it continues with an orthopedic residency that typically lasts 5 years. Surgeons who wish to subspecialize in areas such as joint replacement complete a 1- or 2-year fellowship, and those who become board certified must pass an exam and continue their education. Training continues throughout a surgeon’s career.
Providing Nonsurgical Care
Surgery is not always the first step. Orthopedic surgeons provide nonsurgical and surgical techniques, and they try nonsurgical therapies first for most conditions. A personalized care plan may combine several treatments, and although some conditions require more than one therapy, surgeons tailor recommendations to the diagnosis. Nonsurgical treatments include:
- Braces, slings, casts, or splints
- Cortisone or other joint injections
- Non-opioid medications
- Physical therapy or occupational therapy
- Orthotics that support proper foot positioning
These treatments address different needs. Physical therapy can improve muscle strength or loosen stiff muscles, while occupational therapy helps people perform everyday tasks. Although nonsurgical care does not resolve every condition, surgeons may use several approaches before recommending an operation. Treatment plans depend on the diagnosis.
Orthopedic surgeons perform a broad range of procedures. The appropriate procedure depends on the diagnosis, and joint replacement and reconstruction include several operations. Total hip replacement, total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and total shoulder replacement fall within this category. Less common procedures include elbow and wrist replacement. Joint replacement is one orthopedic subspecialty. Some surgeons focus on joint replacement, while others practice across several areas of orthopedic care. When a condition requires surgery, the surgeon selects a procedure based on the affected joint and diagnosis. The treatment approach varies between patients.
Addressing Related Conditions
Orthopedic surgeons also treat conditions beyond joint replacement. Some practices provide care for fractures, tendon and nerve injuries, and ongoing wrist, hand, and shoulder pain. Arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and rotator cuff injuries are also treated, and although conservative treatments may address some problems, surgery may be recommended when they do not relieve the underlying condition. Some surgeons also specialize in minimally invasive procedures.
Care plans can include exercises, preventive guidance, and injections. Teams may begin with the most appropriate nonsurgical therapies, and they develop personalized plans based on the condition being treated. When conservative treatment does not resolve the problem, surgical care may become part of the plan. Orthopedic care covers a broad range of needs.
Find Orthopedic Surgeons in Your Area
A visit with an orthopedic surgeon does not always lead to surgery. These specialists use nonsurgical therapies for many musculoskeletal problems, and they perform surgery when the diagnosis and treatment plan call for it. An appointment may include a discussion of symptoms and medical history, and although additional testing may be needed, the orthopedic surgeon can explain the diagnosis and available treatment options. Joint replacement is one part of this broader field. Find a specialist in your area to make an appointment.
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