Orthopedics Defined:
In a nutshell, the study and research of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, nerves, etc.) is known as orthopedics. Orthopedics was first developed to treat children who had crippling or debilitating diseases.
In fact the word “orthopedic” is derived from the Greek words “ortho,” meaning straight, and “pais,” meaning children or pediatric. Modern orthopedic physicians treat everyone, no matter their age. In general chronic pain, rheumatic diseases, musculoskeletal injuries and arthritis all are part of the large umbrella orthopedics.
While there are many general orthopedists, quite a few physicians specialize in specific parts of the anatomy or certain diseases. Inside the big umbrella of orthopedics there are a number of specialties including:
- Arthritis and osteoarthritis
- Injury care including fractures
- Joint replacement surgery
- Rheumatology
- Pain management
- Sports medicine
- Back & Spine Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Hip Injuries& Replacement
- Shoulder Injuries& Replacement
- Foot & Ankle Surgery
- Physical and Occupational Therapy
When To See An Orthopedic Physician
Many people wonder if they should visit an orthopedic specialist or go to their primary care doctor. There are some specific times that it may speed recovery time to visit the orthopedist directly. Anytime that that there is a suspected traumatic or repetitive motion injury to a bone, joint, tendon or nerve an orthopedic doctor is your best choice for treatment. If the patient is experiencing chronic joint or bone pain, diagnosed with a rheumatic disease, or have arthritis an orthopedic specialist is an important part of treatment.
Some Diseases and Conditions Treated By Orthopedists
There are many diseases, conditions, and injuries treated by orthopedic specialists. A few of these diseases include:
- Diabetic Foot
- Heel Pain
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Tendon Dysfunction
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Bunions
- Claw Toe
- Hammer Toe
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hip Bursitis
- Snapping Hip
- Osteoporosis of the Hip
- Sciatica
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Arthritis
- Bowed Legs
- Bursitis
- Joint Pain
- Osgood-Schlatter Disease
- Runner’s Knee
- Osteoporosis
- Spinal Fractures
- Erb’s PalsyTendonitis
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Frozen Shoulder
- Shoulder Impingement
- Tennis Elbow
- Spine and Neck
- Spinal Stenosis
- Scoliosis
- Cauda Equina Syndrome
- Compartment Syndrome
- Dupuytren’s Contracture
- Kienböck’s Disease
- Boutonnière Deformity
- De Quervain’s Tendinitis
- Bone, Joint, and Muscle Infections in Children
- Cerebral Palsy
- Juvenile Arthritis
- Limb Length Discrepancy
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Neurofibromatosis
- Rickets
- Infections after FractureLyme Disease
- Muscle Cramp
Finding an Orthopedic Physician
When looking to get orthopedic care it is important to take into consideration the condition that needs treatment. Finding a specialist in the specific issue can speed along the healing process greatly. The Illinois Bone and Joint Institute has specialist in almost every area of orthopedic care. To find a physician to treat a certain disease, condition, or injury search our database of physicians to find one that has the ability to provide expert specialized care. Once a physician is found, it is easy to make an appointment by calling the phone number on the doctor’s biography page or requesting an appointment through our contact form.
*This content is for information only and is not intended to replace the diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice from your treating healthcare professionals. The content does not provide medical advice, does not constitute the practice of medicine or other healthcare professional services, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. You should not rely on this information as a substitute, nor does it replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns or questions, seek the advice of your healthcare professionals. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Do not rely on electronic communications or communicate through this website for immediate, urgent medical needs. This website is not designed to facilitate medical emergencies. The use of the information is at the reader’s own risk. The links are provided for information and convenience only. We cannot accept responsibility for the sites linked or the information found here. A link does not imply an endorsement of a site.
