Have you been dealing with pain for days, weeks, or even months? If so, an orthopedic doctor might be exactly who you need to help address the problem. Orthopedic doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating issues involving your joints, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves—areas of your body that endure a lot of wear and tear every day. To prevent these problems from getting worse, it’s important to seek medical attention when needed. Below are six common signs that indicate it’s time to see an orthopedic specialist.
1. Chronic Back Pain
If you’ve been experiencing back pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks, it’s considered chronic pain. While occasional discomfort might not be alarming, pain that persists despite medication or treatment definitely calls for professional help. With so many of us spending hours on devices, back pain—ranging from lower to upper back trouble—is becoming increasingly common. In fact, millions of Americans deal with this issue regularly. Don’t ignore it; consulting an orthopedic doctor can help prevent long-term back problems.
2. Numbness or Tingling
Feeling numbness or tingling in any part of your body might signal an underlying problem. For instance, if you frequently drop objects or feel tingling in your thumb, you could be dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition is often caused by wrist injuries or repetitive wrist movements. An orthopedic doctor can provide treatment to relieve symptoms, offer long-term care, or even perform surgery if necessary.
3. Trouble with Everyday Activities
Joint and bone pain can occasionally happen, especially as we get older. However, when pain makes basic tasks—like standing, walking, or climbing stairs—difficult, it’s time to seek medical attention. Left untreated, these kinds of problems could lead to chronic pain, permanent joint damage, or even the need for joint replacement surgery.
4. Weak or Bruised Muscles
If you’ve had an injury that left you with swelling, pain, and bruising, you might be dealing with a muscle contusion. This happens when your muscles are pressed or hit by a blunt object, causing the muscle fibers to crush without breaking the skin. In some cases, blood might collect under the skin, forming a lump around the injured area. If you notice these symptoms, getting immediate treatment from an orthopedic doctor is crucial. Depending on the severity of the injury, you might require physical therapy or other rehabilitation.
5. Swelling
Swelling is often a sign that something is wrong, especially if it’s caused by a broken bone, bursitis, or a sprain. To determine what’s going on and ensure you receive the right treatment—whether it’s a cast, rehabilitation, or surgery—it’s best to consult with an orthopedic specialist as soon as possible.
6. Repetitive Strain Injuries
If your job or daily activities involve repetitive movements, you might develop strain injuries in your muscles, tendons, or nerves. These types of injuries can lead to ongoing discomfort and pain that worsens over time. An orthopedic doctor can help by improving your range of motion and offering non-surgical treatments, physical therapy, or personalized advice to manage and reduce strain on your body.
Take Action Before Pain Gets Worse
Orthopedic doctors are trained to treat a variety of issues, from lingering pain and swelling to injuries and tingling sensations. Don’t wait for these problems to escalate. Reach out to an orthopedic specialist to get the care you need and prevent further complications.
