Your bones bear the brunt of your body’s weight and dailymotions, from walking to running.Your bones need to be healthy and strong enough to bear the weight, stress, and strain you put them through. When it comes to bone health, orthopedic surgeons can help diagnose, treat, and prevent problems.
So, how do you choose the right orthopedic doctor for your needs? Here’s what you can do:
1. Research the Doctor’s Credentials
Make sure your doctor is board-certified and has the proper licensure. This means they are qualified to deliver accurate diagnoses and treatment options. Also, check their experience in the field of orthopedics. The more experienced the doctor is, the better off you’ll be.
2. Consider Their Area of Expertise
Orthopedic surgeons can specialize in different areas. You should find out if a doctor specializes in a certain area by calling their office, checking their website, or asking them during a visit.
Specializations may include the following:
- Joint replacement surgery – this involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial one
- Sports medicine – this focuses on the prevention and treatment of injuries related to sports activities and athletics
- Pediatric orthopedics – this focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal problems in children
Take your needs into consideration when choosing the right orthopedic doctor.For example, say you have joint damage from severe osteoarthritis. A doctor specializing in joint replacement surgery might be the best choice.
3. Know What Services They Offer
Before selecting an orthopedic surgeon, look into the services they offer. Many orthopedic surgeons provide both surgical and non-surgical options for treating bone conditions, which is great.
Some non-surgical treatments include:
- Bracing and splinting – involves the use of braces and splints to support damaged joints
- Medications – help relieve pain and manage inflammation
- Injections – direct injection of medications to help treat joint pain and inflammation
Meanwhile, some surgical treatments may include:
- Arthroscopy – a minimally invasive procedure using a camera to diagnose and treat joint problems
- Joint replacement – the replacement of a damaged joint with an artificial one
- Fusions – using screws and plates to fuse bones together
4. Ask for Recommendations
Ask your friends and family for recommendations. They may know an orthopedic physician personally who they can recommend. A lot more people need orthopedic care than you think. You likely have people in your social circle or even family who have seen orthopedic doctors in the past for bone or other musculoskeletal issues.
You can also go to your primary care physician for a referral.
5. Check Online Reviews
The internet is an invaluable resource when it comes to researching doctors. You should check out online reviews on various search engines, as well as doctor rating websites. These reviews can provide insight into the doctor’s bedside manner, skills, service quality, and area of expertise.
6. Make an Appointment
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential bone doctors, it’s time to make an appointment and meet with them. During the appointment, make sure you:
- Feel comfortable with the doctor
- Discuss your condition and needs in detail
- Assess the cleanliness of the office or clinic
- Observe the friendliness and professionalism of the supporting staff
7. Make a List of Questions
When going in fora consultation with a prospective orthopedic doctor, have a list of questions handy that you can ask the doctor.
Some questions to ask include:
- How long have you been practicing?
- How do you typically treat my condition?
- Are there any risks or side effects associated with the treatments you most often recommend?
- What complications do you most often encounter?
- How easy is to make appointments with you? What about when an urgent need comes up, such as severe back pain or a traumatic accident?
These questions can help you get a better idea of the doctor’s approach to your condition and if it is the right fit for you.
8. Take Your Personal Needs into Account
Each patient has unique needs and preferences. Make sure the orthopedic doctor understands and respects them. Are you looking for a minimally invasive procedure? Does the doctor offer treatments tailored to your specific condition and preferences?
Also, it’s important to consider how you’ll be communicating with the doctor. Do you prefer phone or email communication? Will your questions be answered quickly and adequately through virtual means, or do you need to come in every time you want to speak with the doctor?
9. Consider Your Insurance Coverage
Before deciding on a bone doctor, make sure they are covered by your insurance provider. Some orthopedic doctors may not be in-network or accept certain insurances. So, check to make sure that your insurance provider covers the cost of the doctor’s services.
The Best Bone Doctor Near You in Springfield, MA & Hartford and Tolland Counties, CT
Choosing the right bone doctor for your needs is an important decision. Be sure to do your research, ask for recommendations, and take personal preferences into account. Also, consider your insurance coverage when deciding. Make sure your chosen bone doctor specializes in treatment of your specific condition and can provide personalized care.
Looking for the best bone doctor near you in Massachusetts or Connecticut? The board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Advanced Orthopedics New England are here for you. Our bone doctors have extensive experience caring for all types of injuries and conditions. Call our helpful staff today at (860) 728-6740 so we can assist you in scheduling your appointment.
