Orthopedic doctors treat musculoskeletal injuries. This means setting broken bones, treating arthritis, and helping patients manage the symptoms of degenerative bone and joint diseases like carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoporosis. If you’re suffering from any of these conditions, your primary care physician will likely refer you to an Orthopedic Doctor in Birmingham, AL.
Broken bones are typically quite easy to diagnose, but the type of treatment required will depend on the patient and the type of injury incurred. An orthopedic surgeon can not only reset bones, but also rebuild muscular tissue and repair joint damage when needed. Some orthopedic doctors specialize in pediatric or elderly care, and others focus on parts of the body. If you’re suffering from a spinal injury, for example, you require treatment from an orthopedic specialist trained specifically in treating damage to the spine.
Arthritis, and particularly osteoarthritis, is typically an age-related disease. It is degenerative in nature, causing inflammation around aging joints and pain that can often be quite severe. Although it is most frequently seen in older patients, arthritis can be caused by infection, trauma, or even changes in metabolism at a younger age. Although there is no cure for the various forms of arthritis, an orthopedic doctor can diagnose the underlying cause and suggest rehabilitation and medications to strengthen effected joints and relieve the symptoms.
Carpel tunnel syndrome is a condition affecting the connective tissue in the wrist. It is often caused by repetitive motion. Symptoms include numbness, burning, and in some cases decreased the range of motion in the affected area. If left untreated, it can cause muscle deterioration and decreased sensation in the hand, thumb, and fingers. The treatment for carpal tunnel depends on the severity of the case. If it’s caught in the beginning stage of the condition, often all that’s required is a few weeks of rest to reduce swelling. In more serious cases, medications and surgical options are available.
Osteoporosis is an underlying cause of many broken bones and general loss of mobility. It occurs as bones age and is typically the result of calcium deficiency. It can often be treated through dietary change alone, but there are medications to treat serious cases.
If you have been suffering from symptoms of any of these diseases, talk to your primary care physician.
