Orthopedics involves the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and some doctors treat the whole musculoskeletal system, while others focus on one body region. Since each region has its own structure, these specialists study its injuries and conditions in detail. Here are four major areas of orthopedic care and the conditions within each:
Foot and Ankle
The foot and ankle contain many bones and joints, and they support your full body weight. When pain affects walking or standing, a foot and ankle specialist examines the bones, tendons, and ligaments. These doctors treat both sudden injuries and long-term conditions. Here are some conditions that these specialists in orthopedics treat:
- Ankle sprains and fractures from falls or twists
- Plantar fasciitis, which causes heel pain
- Achilles tendon tears and tendinitis
- Bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities
- Arthritis in the foot or ankle joints
Shoulders, Arms, and Hands
Since the shoulder moves in many directions, it has a higher risk of dislocation than other joints. Some patients need surgery, but many start with physical therapy or injections. Imaging tests such as MRI help the doctor see soft tissue damage.
The elbow and forearm form a separate area of focus. Tennis elbow develops when repeated gripping strains the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow affects the inner side, and other conditions involve nerve pressure. If you notice numbness in your ring and little fingers, a nerve may be involved.
Hand surgeons work on small, detailed structures, so many complete extra fellowship training. They treat carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and wrist fractures. Since the hand contains many nerves and tendons, even a minor cut may need a specialist’s review. Treatment options may include splints, injections, hand therapy, and surgery.
Neck and Back
Spine specialists treat conditions that affect the neck, upper back, and lower back, including the discs and nerves. Some are orthopedic surgeons, and others focus on nonsurgical care such as medication and therapy. Your symptoms and test results guide the choice between these options. Patients should visit a spine specialist when they have one of these problems:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal
- Sciatica-related pain that travels down the leg
- Congenital scoliosis and other curves of the spine
Hips, Legs, and Knees
The hip and knee are two of the largest joints in the body. As cartilage wears down over time, osteoarthritis may cause stiffness and pain in these joints. Specialists suggest weight management, physical therapy, and exercise first, or they recommend joint replacement.
The knee also absorbs force during running and jumping, so athletes may injure its ligaments. A sports medicine specialist evaluates injuries that involve the ACL, meniscus, or kneecap. Shin splints and stress fractures in the lower leg fall under this specialty too. Treatment varies by injury, and recovery timelines differ from person to person.
Visit an Orthopedics Clinic Today
If you have ongoing pain, swelling, or limited movement, an orthopedic evaluation may help identify the cause. To do this, a specialist reviews your medical history, examines the area, and may order X-rays or an MRI. Some clinics offer online booking, so you can make an appointment there. Contact an orthopedics clinic near you to schedule a consultation and discuss your symptoms.
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