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What to Expect From an Orthopedist

If you are facing medical complications from an on the job injury, you may be referred to an orthopedist specialist for diagnosis and treatment. To prepare for your initial visit, it is important to understand what an orthopedist does and how they can help you deal with your injury.

The medical specialty of orthopedics deals with the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which is made up of the bones, muscles, tendons, nerves, and ligaments. Orthopedists can diagnose and treat injuries pertaining to these components of the body and they also have the skills necessary to perform related surgeries to repair injury damage.

For work-related injury cases that involve the hip, knee, back and other associated parts of the body, a referral from a regular physician to an orthopedist is not uncommon especially if surgery is predicted. There are multiple branches of an orthopedic practice and a referral to a specific type of orthopedist including orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists or rheumatologists may be necessary for diagnosis and treatment.

Injuries sustained on the job may require an orthopedist's intervention if there is a broken bone, injuries to the joints and even for chronic issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome related to one's work environment. There are many in-office treatments outside of surgery that can be used to repair damage and injuries. For the more serious diagnosis, surgery will often be required.

The orthopedist will conduct an overall medical question and answer period with you to discuss your concerns and injuries during the first visit. A thorough physical exam will be conducted as well. Testing will be done based on your injury and once a diagnosis is reached, an ongoing treatment plan will be established. If surgery is necessary, a plan for recovery and continued physical therapy treatment may be handled by a orthopedist or referred to another qualified professional for longer-term treatment.

If you have suffered an injury on the job and have been referred to an orthopedist, it is important to ensure you have your medical costs covered and your rights protected under a workers compensation claim. Please contact our office to schedule a free consultation to make sure you know your rights regarding your injuries. You can call us toll free at (866) 205-2415 or use our online contact form.