Orthopaedics is the branch of medicine that involves diagnosis, management and treatment of bone and joint problems or ailments. The branch engages in the study of a whole host of diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical orthopaedic services to treat problems in children and adults like for their bone, joint or connective tissues. An orthopaedic surgeon is a physician who conducts surgery, casting and bracing to treat problems of the bones and joints apart from treating injuries to bones and joints.
When to see an orthopaedic doctor?
Some signs or symptoms are such that you should not ignore and see an orthopaedic doctor immediately. They include:
- Pain in muscles, joints, or tendons that stays longer than a few days
- Swelling or bruising around the joint
- Injury to the joint
- Joint pain that grows more intense at night or after the rest
- Any joint or limb deformity
- Difficulty in standing or walking
- Restricted motion of the back or stiffness
- Problems in performing daily functions due to bone or joint issues