Due to the growing increase in diseases of the bones, ligaments, tendons, joints and muscles, the orthopedist is the point of contact for patients of all ages. The diseases may be genetic, due to other pathological impairments, accidents or a progressive aging process and lead the affected to the orthopedist of their confidence.
What is an orthopedist?
Orthopedics is a medical specialty that deals with the movement, structure and function of the musculoskeletal system, as well as the limitations caused by disease. Orthopedics is a medical specialty that deals with the movement, structure and function of the musculoskeletal system, as well as disease-related limitations. In addition to diagnostics, the fields of activity of orthopedists are based equally on prevention and in-depth, targeted treatment in practices or the clinics. The basis for the training as an orthopedist is first of all a study at a medical school, within which different training contents are taught. In addition, the prospective orthopedists deal with accident surgery measures and procedures of physiotherapy, orthopedic pain medicine, the possible surgical as well as alternative medical treatment methods. Orthopedic surgeons also cannot work successfully without general and specialized knowledge of anatomy and physiology, as well as pharmacology, hygiene, and local anesthesia for pain. In addition, an orthopedic surgeon operates proven diagnostic equipment and is adept at interpreting radiographic findings.
Treatments
An orthopedic surgeon is able to treat various general and specific diseases of the musculoskeletal, musculoskeletal, and bony systems based on an in-depth knowledge and specialized skills. The focus is on diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis, inflammation of the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments, hip dysplasia and herniated discs. In addition, the orthopedist’s activities focus on the so-called impingement syndrome, bone fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoporosis, and tears of muscles and ligaments. Impairments such as clubfoot, deformities of the bones, tumors of the bones and twisting of the shoulders are also typical clinical pictures that an orthopedist can treat. So-called ischialgia, the predominantly acute lumbago, gonarthrosis and hallux valgus also fall within the orthopedist’s area of expertise. In addition, the orthopedist maintains interdisciplinary contact with other orthopedic disciplines and can refer patients depending on their condition. For all conditions, the orthopedist is diagnostic and can also provide some prophylaxis as well as consultation and aftercare following surgical procedures.
Diagnostic and examination methods
In order to perform a clear diagnostic survey, the orthopedist relies not only on a trained eye, the patient’s information, and his or her keen sense of touch. The orthopedist also uses highly complicated technical devices, which likewise enable a differential diagnostic examination. In addition to the conventional X-ray method for the detection of bone fractures, computer tomography also plays an important role. Ultrasound, nuclear magnetic resonance and spinal measurement techniques are also indispensable diagnostic tools of the orthopedist. Bone density measurement is suitable for the early detection of osteoporosis. Equally important are skeletal age determination and measurement of joint space width. Digital X-rays as a modern procedure and measurement of the footprint are also indispensable for an orthopedist. In therapy, the orthopedist uses technical applications based on the effects of light rays, heat, cold and electric current. In addition, some devices work specifically with water, electromagnetic or laser radiation and ultrasonic waves.
What should the patient pay attention to?
In order to find an orthopedist corresponding to the individual ideas, it is not always decisive only how full the waiting rooms are. In particular, such criteria as an orthopedist’s service program in relation to conventional medical and possibly alternative treatment procedures are important. Some orthopedists are very versatile and can offer a whole range of therapeutic measures.Orthopedists are also trained as specialists in accident medicine and are therefore the best people to contact when it comes to orthopedically relevant conditions caused by an accident. In order to find a follow-up orthopedist after a surgical procedure, it is helpful to ask for appropriate specialists already at the hospital. These orthopedists are the best partners when it comes to receiving optimal outpatient care after cruciate ligament surgery or the insertion of an artificial hip joint. This also applies to patients who have been fitted with orthoses or endoprostheses.
