If you have problems that affect your musculoskeletal system, you need to see a professional who specializes in orthopedics, i.e., an orthopedic doctor or surgeon. From diagnosis to prognosis, this is their specialty.
Education and Training
An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor. They have undergone extensive training and education in the proper diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. In order to obtain this professional position, the following education is necessary:
- College or University: four years
- Medical School: four years
- Orthopedic Residency: five years at a major medical center
- Specialized Education: depending on whether they are planning to specialize within the field, an optional year is taken in such things as pediatric orthopedics, knees orthopedics, spinal orthopedics and sports medicine.
Overall, someone entering the field of orthopedics would spend a total of 14 years in school and as a resident before working in or establishing a practice. In addition to this, the state requires a license, and the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery demands the taking and passing of both an oral and written examination.
However, the education process does not cease after graduation and practicing. Every year, the surgeon continues to study the latest material on the subject. They will also attend conferences in this field and take medical courses on an ongoing basis.
What an Orthopaedic Surgeon Does
The work of an orthopaedic surgeon falls into the following categories:
- Diagnosis
- Treatment – including preoperative, operative, and postoperative
- Prognosis
- Rehabilitation
- Prevention
Orthopedic surgeons do not perform this task alone; they work together with other medical care providers. This includes medical doctors, surgeons, nurses and physical therapists. At times, they only act as consultants. It depends upon the situation and the specific orthopedic problem affecting the life of the patient.
Where to Find an Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedic surgeons work in various environments. They are located in:
- Medical schools as educators
- Hospitals
- Specialized practices
- Multi-services clinics
Here they handle everything from minor sprains to hip replacements. Their services are not only restricted to children, they take care of anybody who suffers from a disorder affecting the musculoskeletal system. With the latest in medical and technological advances, an orthopedic surgeon diagnoses and treats a variety of problems in their specialized field–resorting to surgery only when necessary.
If you are looking for a trained, skilled and Board-Certified orthopedic surgeon, you need to talk to the professional and compassionate staff at Suburban Orthopaedics. With more than 25 years of dedicated and caring service to our clients, we are proud of who we are and the assistance we provide. To discover more about us, visit www.suburbanortho.com. You can also follow them on Twitter for more updates!
