When Should You Consult a Doctor for Orthopedic Pain?

As you become older, aches and pains may become more common, but that doesn’t always mean they’re normal. Athletes may sometimes ignore injuries that they ascribe to common training aches and pains when they require medical treatment. The fact is that it might be tough to discern if you’re fine or whether you need to see a doctor. Athletes and people who suffer from chronic injuries may be more experienced with determining if an injury requires a consultation with an orthopedic doctor or if your family doctor would suffice. An orthopedic specialist specializes in the health of your bones and joints, and your regular doctor may not be as equipped to diagnose your problem. There are various signs that indicate you should see an orthopedic doctor.

Persistent Soft Tissue Damage

Soft tissue injuries, such as a sprained ankle, twisted knee, or a painful wrist, must be treated as soon as possible with the RICE approach – rest, ice, compression, and elevation. If the pain and swelling persist following 48 hours, schedule a consultation with an orthopedic specialist.

Persistent Joint Pain

Persistent joint or bone pain, particularly in the neck, back, elbows, or knees, might indicate a major orthopedic condition. You might have osteoarthritis or an inflammatory condition. An orthopedic specialist will be able to comprehend your symptoms and deliver an appropriate diagnosis, setting you on the road to recovery.

Reduced Joint Mobility

Because your joints enable you to move your limbs freely and easily, it’s an indication that something is wrong when these motions become challenging. A reduction in range of motion can indicate arthritis, another joint illness, or joint damage. If it persists, it is probable that it will not go away by itself that you will need to contact a doctor. If left untreated, this sort of injury could worsen or develop additional complications.

Everyday Activities Are Affected

Common, everyday joint discomfort is normal but not so usual that it interferes with your regular activities. Walking short distances, taking the stairs, moving in and out of bed, brushing your teeth, and other daily tasks should be pain-free. The same lingering pain that persists when performing a certain action may indicate a more serious condition than you previously imagined.

Tingling Sensations in the Hands or Fingers

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause numbness in your hands, thumb, pointer, or middle fingers, as well as a tingling feeling. Dropping objects often might also be a warning indicator. Carpal tunnel syndrome damages the nerve that passes through your wrist to your forearm and enables your four fingers to sense, with the exception of your pinky. This condition can be caused by a variety of reasons, the most common of which is frequently flexing the wrist over extended periods of time.

Your Orthopedic Specialist Visit

Your orthopedic specialist will listen to your concerns before examining whatever is wrong with you. They will examine your range of motion, strength, and whether or not everything is operating properly. If further information is required, the doctor may request other tests, such as an x-ray or an MRI, to better identify your condition or damage.

Your specialist will collaborate with you to decide the right plan of action for a treatment plan after learning further about your injury or condition and evaluating the results of any diagnostics. Nonsurgical techniques such as rest, medication, injections, physical therapy, and rehabilitation programs can often be used to treat your injury. Your doctor will work with you to improve your strength and flexibility and will devise a plan that may include a combination of therapy options to get you back to normal.