The human body is comprised of many intricate moving parts to keep you healthy and working. When one thing goes wrong and untreated, pain can get worse and affect other parts of your body. Everyday life brings common muscular and skeletal injuries and issues, leading to pain that can pile on. You don't deserve to live in discomfort. Orthopedic services are available to aid in recovery and health so that you can get back to focusing on living your life. 

Basics of Orthopedic Services 

Experts in human physiology study more specific aspects of your body's functions. There are various orthopedic doctors because of the complexity. Orthopedic specialists can study aspects of the body from the entire musculoskeletal system. This includes muscles, bones, tendons, joints, and ligaments. 

Treatment can vary with surgical and non-surgical options. If you are unsure if orthopedic care is right for you, ask your primary care doctor for their opinion and if they can recommend a specialist.

Types of Orthopedic Specialists

Orthopedic Surgeon: 

These doctors study the workings and connections of the musculoskeletal system, making them specialists in surgery. They can work on your body with surgery, help with rehabilitation, and give expertise concerning future treatment and risk of injury.

Orthopedic surgeons can study to practice generally or in more specialized areas of the body. For example, a doctor can choose to focus on any single area or any variety of the following: Feet, knees, hips, spine, hands, and shoulders.

Rheumatologist: 

Rheumatologists focus on the treatment of diseases and pain that can compromise the musculoskeletal system. They specialize in autoimmune diseases, arthritis, and other system disorders, like tendonitis, fibromyalgia, and carpal tunnel. 

These doctors work best at healing in the earlier stages of pain and illness, but they can still aid in the treatment of more chronic cases. 

Physical Therapist:

Physical therapists (PT) focus on rehabilitation aimed at improving motion and functionality. They provide assistance in recovering from injury or disease. For example, if you had a sprained ankle, a PT could provide exercises and stretches to help you regain movement and flexibility. 

A PT specializes in pain relief and pain management. Some services they offer include pre- and post-surgical treatment, balance retraining, or hot and cold therapy. 

Everyone deserves to live with less pain. No matter your pain level, there is a doctor out there to help you. Make an appointment at an orthopedic care clinic to learn more.