An orthopedic consultant is a doctor who specializes in treating patients who have issues with their muscles, bones, joints, and other body structures. He is a seasoned physician and surgeon who is regarded as an expert in the field of orthopedics. Orthopedics is a medical specialty that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Arthritis, osteoporosis, bone tumors, and broken bones or fractures are all common conditions treated by an orthopedic specialist. He is frequently asked to confirm a diagnosis, offer expert advice, and provide second opinions on musculoskeletal disorders as a specialist.
He usually diagnoses and treats patients with bone and muscle diseases, such as infections and degenerative diseases, as an orthopedic consultant. In addition, he frequently performs surgeries to preserve and restore the form and function of the hands, legs, spine, and other structures that have been damaged by injury. In most cases, an orthopedic consultant performs surgery on patients who have suffered musculoskeletal injuries as a result of sports, vehicle accidents, or falls. Congenital defects are frequently repaired by an orthopedic specialist who specializes in musculoskeletal problems in children.
The orthopedic specialist will usually conduct a thorough physical examination. A patient’s posture and gait are carefully observed while standing and walking, as abnormalities in posture and gait can often point to a diagnosis. When a neuromuscular disturbance is suspected, a neurologic examination is sometimes performed as well. To clarify or confirm the diagnosis, a series of X-rays of the bones and joints is frequently required. An orthopedic consultant’s scope of practice also includes the application of an arm cast or a leg cast.
A consultant in orthopedics may also choose to pursue additional subspecialty training. Pediatric orthopedics, which focuses on the management and care of children with musculoskeletal disorders; surgical sports medicine, which focuses on sports-related trauma, particularly in athletes; and musculoskeletal oncology, which focuses on the management and care of patients with cancers of the muscles and bones. Other subspecialties, such as hand surgery, shoulder and elbow surgery, and spine surgery, are all related to a specific part of the body.
The orthopedic consultant usually informs the patient about the nature of the illness or injury, the treatment options, and what the patient can expect during the course of treatment. He may also refer the patient for rehabilitation and counseling to other medical departments. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to keep track of the patient’s progress during his or her recovery.