So many things can go wrong with the musculoskeletal system of the human body. An orthopedic surgeon in Provo, Utah is a specialist who completed a residency in orthopedic services. After completing a concentrated study in a fellowship program, a doctor has the capacity to diagnose and treat problems in the musculoskeletal system.
Whom can you go to for help?
Given more time to study, a doctor who wants to specialize further can engage in continuing education for shoulder and elbow surgery, hand surgery, hip surgery, foot, and ankle surgery, sports medicine, pediatrics, trauma, and spinal surgery. If you need a specialist, you can consult the list of doctors affiliated with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.
Fractures
One of the most commonly treated conditions by orthopedic surgeons is fractures of the bone. When force is applied from a certain direction and with more intensity than the bone can take, it can break or fracture. Aside from direct trauma, a twisting force and a fall from a height are the most common causes of fractures. Sometimes, muscle pull can lead to fractures. A stress fracture occurs when it puts huge amounts of pressure on the bone. Weakened bones from the disease are more prone to stress fractures.
Severe fractures manifest with severe pain and obvious deformity. Swelling is present, and there is a limitation of movement. It may be difficult to move nearby joints due to pain. Other signs of a fracture are bruising redness, and warmth of the affected body part. An orthopedic specialist might recommend a cast or splint to immobilize the injured part. If needed, traction may be required to realign the bone. Surgery is critical if the bone is broken into a number of parts, and fixation devices may be required to facilitate healing. Pain control is possible with medication.
An innovative field
Of all the branches of medicine, orthopedics is possibly one of the most innovative, and it enjoys the benefits of technological advances. The field has quickly expanded with developments in material science with new surgical tools and less invasive procedures that produce better results. For example, furtherance in arthroscopy now allows surgeons to visualize internal structures of human joints without opening them. Moreover, total joint replacement surgery now allows joints damaged by degenerative changes to be surgically substituted. Research continues to progress. In the future, it may be possible to regrow cartilage inside human joints.
Holistic management
When you become an orthopedic patient, you will be treated holistically by a specialist who has specialized skills in treating problems of the musculoskeletal system. You can expect other members of the team to help with medical counseling and rehabilitation to assist you in returning to your daily routine as soon as possible. Expect your doctor to explain options carefully so that you can make informed decisions and take an active role in recovery.
If you have been injured and now suffer from a fracture, or experience difficulties due to a disease of the musculoskeletal system, you can count on a skillful and experienced orthopedic specialist to assist you all the way to full recovery.
