The joints within the body are susceptible to injuries that can decrease mobility and cause severe pain. Whether a patient has experienced an injury or has aging issues in the elbows, knees, or hips, if the condition hasn't healed after several months, it may be time to consult an orthopedic doctor in Raleigh. One of the main fears for those experiencing pain is whether a consultation with an orthopedic doctor will end in surgery.
When to Consult an Orthopedic Doctor?
If a person has experienced a sudden injury that has caused damage to a bone, muscle, or joint, it may need immediate surgery. Other times, the patient may not be able to get to the hospital immediately and not realize that their injury is serious. A consultation with the orthopedic doctor will allow the damage to be examined, diagnosed using various tools, and medication and physiotherapy recommended.
What Types of Diagnostic Tools Are Used?
The orthopedic doctor will physically examine the injured or painful site. This thorough exam may involve questions about medical history, prior injuries, potential causes, and how long the condition has existed. In addition, other diagnostic tests may be done, including X-rays, CT scans (computerized tomography), and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
Will Surgery Always Be Scheduled?
No, an orthopedic doctor will first try to place the patient on a treatment plan to allow an injury or fracture to heal first. Surgery will be the next option if the injury or degenerative aging condition is not improving. There have been many advancements in orthopedic surgery so that it is minimally invasive, requiring only minor incisions to access the joints. Most patients can return home on the day of surgery and resume light activities in a few days.
Is Orthopedic Surgery a Quick Cure?
No, whether the orthopedic doctor recommends a treatment plan or surgery, it will take time for a joint injury or condition to heal. While full mobility in most cases will eventually occur, the patient may need time to rest and recover. As a result, athletes may be unable to return to the game for several weeks. However, orthopedic surgery done by a trusted orthopedic doctor will be worth the wait. Soon, the patient can resume their normal daily activities.
Orthopedic Surgeon
Are you experiencing chronic pain in a joint or recently suffered a joint injury? Dr. Dan Albright, an orthopedic doctor in Raleigh, can help. After a thorough examination, a treatment plan will be developed to have you back in the game soon. Contact our office at 919-863-6808 and schedule an appointment as quickly as possible.
