3 Types of Orthopedic Specialists

Orthopedic doctors treat diseases, conditions, and injuries that affect the human skeletal structure, as well as any of the supporting muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Generally, these doctors are separated into surgical and non-surgical orthopedists, which depend on whether or not they perform surgical procedures. Additionally, many orthopedists will specialize in a certain aspect of orthopedics, becoming an expert on that particular part of the body. Here are three types of orthopedic specialists in Suffolk County, NY that you may consult due to an injury or disease.

Medical Orthopedists

Medical orthopedists are doctors that use non-surgical methods to heal certain conditions. Many of these conditions are sports-related injuries, such as strains, sprains, and fractures that don’t require surgical repair. They can also include certain stress to the joints, such as bursitis and tendonitis. Elderly people suffering from arthritis or osteoporosis could lose bone density which could lead to the fracturing of bones in the future, requiring a visit to this specialist. The typical non-surgical treatments used by medical orthopedists include physical therapy, medications, and modifications to a patient’s diet or lifestyle.

Orthopedic Surgeons

In certain situations, surgical procedures will be necessary to heal the problem at hand. Oftentimes, a patient will visit a medical orthopedist first and be recommended to an orthopedic surgeon after non-surgical treatments fail to solve the problem. An orthopedic surgeon will be able to utilize a variety of procedures the correct conditions that negatively affect bones, joints, or the connective tissue. These surgeons can typically perform a traditional open surgery or the less-invasive arthroscopic surgery. Those needing orthopedic surgery can be assured that the surgeon has been well-trained as they are usually required to go through arduous training, which includes a five-year residency following medical school. They will perform their initial procedures under the supervision of an experienced surgeon and many will complete fellowships in a specialty.

Surgical Sub-Specialties

Many orthopedic doctors will decide to specialize in a specific part of the body, making them experts. This is important when dealing with an injury or condition involving the hand, wrist, feet, or ankle as these have a very delicate and complex structure. Seeing a specialist will ensure that they are experts when it comes to these parts of the body. Additional specialties include sports surgery, trauma surgery, and surgery of the spine.

When suffering from an orthopedic injury or condition, you may first visit a medical orthopedist and then an orthopedic surgeon. The difference is whether or not they perform therapies or surgical procedures. Orthopedic specialists in Suffolk County, NY may further specialize in certain parts of the body.