If you are experiencing any type of pain or discomfort in your joints, muscles, or other tissues, it may be time to see an orthopedic doctor. Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal system disorders, injuries, and conditions, which can affect every area of the body, including the neck, back, shoulder, hand, wrist, elbow, hip, knee, foot and ankle. These problems are very common, especially with the demands we place on our bodies daily. It is always best to leave it to the experts to take care of your musculoskeletal health, guide you on the right treatments, and restore you to normal function.
Not sure whether it’s time to see an orthopedic doctor yet? Here are 7 signs that you need to make an appointment with one:
Sign #1 You Have Persistent Joint Pain
If you have been feeling pain anywhere in your body, including the hands, wrists, hips, or knees, for more than two weeks without relief, it’s time to make an appointment with an orthopedist. They can help diagnose the cause behind the pain – you could have a tendon or ligament injury or osteoarthritis – and get you on a treatment plan.
Sign #2 You Have Chronic Neck or Back Pain
Orthopedists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions such as muscle strains, trigger points, arthritis, and disc herniations, which are common causes of neck and back pain. Neck and back pain often doesn’t resolve on its own. Due to its location being so close to the spinal cord and its ability to impact various other parts of the body, treating back and neck pain is really important. Some orthopedists are experts in spine care, which qualifies them to diagnose and treat one of the most complex and delicate areas of the body.
Sign #3 It Is Harder To Do Things
If you notice that normal, daily tasks and movements are becoming more difficult, such as grabbing things, typing, or buttoning up your shirt or jeans, you could have a problem with your hands. These symptoms are consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis. Orthopedists are highly trained in the treatment of patients with hand and wrist problems.
Sign #4 Loss Of Mobility
Do you have difficulty walking normally? Is it a pain to get up or lower yourself to sit down? Did you notice a change in your gait? It could be a problem with your feet and ankles, hips, or knees. Load-bearing joints are prone to developing degenerative conditions such as arthritis, which can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. Losing your mobility is serious and could signify more serious issues that an orthopedic doctor should check out sooner rather than later.
Sign #5 Unexplained Swelling
If you are experiencing any swelling around your joints, it could be due to gout or osteoarthritis. Fractures can also cause swelling. Orthopedists evaluate swelling by reviewing your medical history and ordering tests such as an ultrasound or an X-ray. The doctor may even aspirate or collect fluid from the swelling to find out the cause.
Sign #6 Visible Deformities
Joint deformity is a common symptom of advanced arthritis. Severe arthritis means the joint has deteriorated and become significantly damageddue to the bones rubbing against each other. The cartilage may have all but completely worn away. At this point, the pain will likely be severe, and joint replacement maybe considered.
Sign #7 Difficulty Bearing Weight
The inability to bear weight on your foot or knee suggests instability, which could be caused by a muscle injury, an ankle sprain, or a broken bone. The problem needs to be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon, so they can apply proper treatment to prevent a worsening of the damage to the inner structures.
Experienced Orthopedic Doctor in Hartford and Tolland Counties, CT & Springfield, MA
Contact the board-certified orthopedic doctors at Advanced Orthopedics New England if you have any of the 7 signs mentioned above. Our doctors are some of the best in the field of orthopedics and maintain an excellent reputation in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Our team is committed to your recovery. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (860) 728-6740.
