Written by Isabela Gee
What is Orthopedic?
The study of Orthopedics is primarily focused upon the understanding of the musculoskeletal system. This complicated system in our bodies consists of several components, including the bones of our skeletal system, certain tissues and ligaments, and our muscles, all of which contribute towards regulating and maintaining proper movement throughout the body. Orthopedic surgeons dedicate their lives towards acquiring the necessary expertise to treat their patients so that they may move their bodies to the best of their abilities!
What does an Orthopedic Surgeon do?
An Orthopedic surgeon is responsible for handling all issues that may arise with one’s musculoskeletal system. This often entails in diagnosing a patient’s musculoskeletal pain or disorder as well as determining proper treatment for a reported issue. While Orthopedic surgeons are most definitely qualified to perform surgery, patients usually seek out non-surgical options first, such as pain medication or rehabilitation. As a side note, rehabilitation can sometimes be referred to as physical therapy (exercises) that aids in restoring regular movement to the body.
While this stands true, some situations may yield better results from surgery, therefore it is the physician’s responsibility to make this judgement. Additionally, orthopedic surgeons provide preventative care to their patients in order to stop a disorder from spreading, returning, or worsening.
What kinds of patients do they treat? What sorts of issues do they typically treat?
Orthopedic surgeons treat patients of all ages! You may recognize them for treating broken bones or tending to sports related sprains and strains; however, there are several other things that they treat! This includes back related issues such as general pain or diseases like osteoporosis, arthritis, bone tumors, and even the lengthening of limbs!
Can Orthopedic surgeons specialize in a specific area of the body?
Of course! Some choose to be general surgeons while others may specialize in the foot/ankle, hip/knee, hand, shoulder/elbow, or even the spine.
What education is required to become an orthopedic surgeon?
An aspiring orthopedic surgeon must complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in either medicine or biology. After this, another four years of medical school along with a 4-5 year orthopedic surgery residency is necessary. Not to mention, those who wish to enter into certain subspecialties of orthopedics must complete a 1-2 year fellowship. After taking the necessary certifying and qualifying examinations and establishing a practice, an orthopedic surgeon must continue to maintain proof of their certification through self-assessment and additional courses throughout their career.
What sets this branch of medicine apart from all the other ones?
While other branches of surgical medicine may delve into very grave and serious life and death situations, orthopedic surgeons do not encounter these issues. They are primarily focused on ensuring that their patients can achieve optimum comfort and mobility in their bodies.
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