General Orthopaedics
Orthopaedics is a medical specialty that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. In other words, our orthopaedic surgeons are here to help you with most disorders of the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and skin.
Even though “surgeon” is part of their name that doesn’t mean our orthopedist will want to schedule a surgery with you when you come in for a visit. Orthopaedic surgeons help with everything from diagnosis, correction, prevention, and treatment.
Non-Operative Alternatives
Before surgery is suggested your doctor will first suggest other non-operative treatments to help you with your condition, such as:
- Medication
- Exercise
- Rehabilitation
- Alternative therapies
Common Surgeries
If your body is not, or has not been, responding to non-surgical routes for recovery, then your doctor may recommend surgery. There are many different types of surgery that your orthopaedic surgeon is practiced in. Some of the most common types are:
- Arthroscopy - A minimally invasive surgery on a joint where examination and sometimes treatment are performed.
- Fusion - Bones are fused together using bone grafts and metal rods to help your bones heal into one single bone.
- Internal Fixation - Metal plates, pins, and screws are used to help hold together pieces of broken bone while they heal.
- Joint Replacement - If you have a joint that is worn out then your doctor may suggest a partial or total replacement with an artificial or prosthetic joint.
- Osteotomy - Correcting a bone deformity by cutting and repositioning the bone.
- Soft Tissue Repair - This repair is for fixing torn or damaged tendons and ligaments.
Our doctors at Summit Orthopaedics are well equipped to help you with managing and relieving your pain. They all have over 14 years of formal education and each specializes in various parts of the musculoskeletal system. They take the time to stay up to date and informed with any changes in their field, so please don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you may have.