Orthopaedic surgeon

An orthopaedic surgeon is a doctor who specializes in treating problems affecting the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes bones, muscles, tendons and joints. Treatment may be surgical or nonsurgical.

People who see an orthopaedic surgeon often have pain and/or limitations in physical functioning. For example, they may have knee problems due to osteoarthritis or scoliosis that causes back pain.

The orthopaedic surgeon first asks about the symptoms and how they developed. This is followed by a physical examination. Additional testing may be performed to examine the situation more closely, such as an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI scan. An arthroscopy is also an option.

Based on this, the orthopaedic surgeon proposes treatment. When surgery is not needed, good education or medication may help, for example. Orthopaedic surgeons also often refer patients to a physiotherapist for further treatment.

Sometimes surgery is the only solution, for example when a joint needs to be replaced or a broken bone must be repaired with plates and screws. The orthopaedic surgeon performs this operation. Physiotherapy often follows surgery to support a full recovery.