For patients, going to a doctor with specialized training and experience in different fields of medicine is a benefit to treatment. When a patient has an injury, disease or inherited condition that impacts the musculoskeletal system, an orthopedic doctor can provide the specialized diagnosis and treatment options required.
Typically, most people don’t go to see an orthopedic doctor without a referral from their primary care physician, although there are exceptions. This referral is often made when the injury is more significant than a primary care physician feels comfortable in treating, or if there is a challenge in diagnosing the pain or symptoms.
To help understand why your primary care physician may recommend you see an orthopedic surgeon or doctor, here are several common reasons for a referral.
Sports Injuries
While there are sports injury specialists, reoccurring injuries may be a sign of musculoskeletal issues that are more than just a result of playing sports. Seeing an orthopedic specialist can help diagnose any existing conditions that may be contributing to sports injuries.
Joint Pain
One of the most common reasons to be referred to an orthopedic doctor is because of joint pain. This may be caused by any number of issues from autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis to joint deformities or hyperextension of the joint.
The specialist will be able to accurately determine the cause of the pain and then plan a treatment option that will help to reduce the discomfort while maximizing the range of motion and mobility.
Additionally, if standard treatment options have been exhausted by your primary care physician, the orthopedic specialists will be called on to determine if surgical procedures or other types of treatment options may be beneficial. These experts have the experience and the expertise to determine if the patient is a good candidate for this type of treatment options.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, we have the orthopedic doctor and specialists to address your musculoskeletal health issues. To find out more visit www.suburbanortho.com. You can connect with them on Facebook for latest news and updates!
