Not All Pain Requires a Specialist
Most musculoskeletal pain resolves on its own or with basic treatment. However, certain signs indicate you should see an orthopaedic surgeon.
Red Flags: See a Doctor Immediately
Emergency Symptoms
- Severe trauma — Falls, accidents, sports injuries with obvious deformity
- Inability to bear weight — Can't stand or walk on the affected limb
- Numbness or tingling — Especially if spreading or worsening
- Loss of function — Can't move a joint or limb normally
Signs of Infection
- Fever with joint pain
- Red, hot, swollen joint
- Recent surgery or injection with increasing pain
When to Schedule an Appointment
Persistent Pain
Consider seeing an orthopaedic surgeon if:
- Pain persists more than 2 weeks despite rest and over-the-counter treatment
- Pain is getting worse rather than better
- Pain interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Pain limits your mobility or range of motion
Chronic Conditions
- Arthritis symptoms — Joint stiffness, swelling, grinding sensation
- Recurring injuries — Same area keeps getting injured
- Progressive weakness — Muscle strength declining over time
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Before Your Appointment
Prepare the following information:
- When the pain started
- What makes it better or worse
- Previous treatments tried
- Relevant medical history
- List of current medications
During the Consultation
- History taking — Doctor asks detailed questions
- Physical examination — Testing range of motion, strength, stability
- Imaging — X-rays, MRI, or CT scan may be ordered
- Diagnosis — Explanation of your condition
- Treatment plan — Options from conservative to surgical
Conservative vs Surgical Treatment
Most Conditions Start with Conservative Treatment
- Physiotherapy
- Medications
- Injections (steroid, hyaluronic acid)
- Activity modification
- Bracing or supports
Surgery May Be Recommended If
- Conservative treatment fails after 3-6 months
- Structural damage requires repair
- Quality of life is significantly impacted
- Condition is progressive and will worsen without intervention
Choosing the Right Specialist
Types of Orthopaedic Subspecialties
| Subspecialty | Focuses On |
|---|---|
| Sports Medicine | Athletic injuries, ligaments |
| Joint Replacement | Hip and knee arthroplasty |
| Spine Surgery | Back and neck conditions |
| Hand Surgery | Wrist, hand, finger problems |
| Foot & Ankle | Lower extremity issues |
| Trauma | Fractures, acute injuries |
Questions to Ask
- How many of these procedures have you performed?
- What are the risks and benefits?
- What is the expected recovery time?
- Are there non-surgical alternatives?
Conclusion
Don't ignore persistent pain or mobility issues. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. When in doubt, a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist can provide clarity and peace of mind.