Orthopedic specialists in Los Angeles are qualified to treat many different conditions that affect the bones, joints, and muscles. They can also repair injuries to ligaments and tendons.
Orthopedic services may include exercise therapy, in-office procedures, medication, and lifestyle changes. They can help you return to your normal life activities as soon as possible.
Orthopedic surgeons are skilled at treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions, including broken bones and injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. They can also help patients manage pain and return to the activities they love.
An orthopedic specialist may use conservative or surgical methods to treat a condition. Nonsurgical therapies might include splints, braces, steroid injections, and physical therapy. They might also recommend acetaminophen or other non-opioid medications to ease discomfort.
When it comes to surgery, an orthopedic specialist will try to fix the problem using minimally invasive techniques. These procedures can save patients time and money compared to traditional open surgeries. They also reduce complications and improve outcomes for patients. They will work with therapists and pain management specialists to provide the best care possible.
Whether you’re groaning when you reach overhead or you find it harder to bend over, it’s important that you keep your range of motion up as you get older. If you notice that your joints aren’t moving as smoothly as they used to, an orthopedist can help you fix the problem with physical therapy and other treatments.
In addition to helping you increase your mobility, orthopedists treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal injuries and illnesses. They can make sure your broken bones heal properly, and they can even help you avoid future problems by teaching you how to move correctly.
When it comes to repairing your knees, hips, shoulders and elbows, an orthopedic surgeon will likely use a minimally-invasive surgical procedure like arthroscopic surgery to minimize pain, scarring and recovery time. They may also perform larger-scale surgeries like joint replacements with high-quality hardware from Stryker(r). If you’re experiencing pain or stiffness in your joints, contact an orthopedist to learn about your options.
When you have an injury, it’s important to seek medical attention from an orthopedic professional. He or she can help you make the distinction between soreness after a workout and serious pain that needs treatment.
An orthopedist will ask you about your medical history and listen to how your body feels. Then, they may take X-rays or order blood tests. The test results help the doctor hone in on the cause of your injury.
The physician will then create a plan for treatment. This might include medications, physical therapy or surgery. Most orthopedists prefer to use minimally invasive treatments first. If these aren’t effective, they may suggest more invasive techniques.
Talk to your friends and family about their experiences with an orthopedic specialist. Their recommendations can help you find a doctor who’s a good fit for your needs. You can also use online reviews and neighborhood apps to learn about doctors in your area. If you have insurance, check with your provider to determine what types of treatment are covered under your plan.
A second opinion can help you feel confident that you have the right diagnosis and treatment plan. It’s also helpful to learn about your options, especially when it comes to surgery.
A primary care physician can refer you to an orthopedic specialist or you can look for one yourself. Ask friends and family for recommendations, or search for physicians with an online reputation, such as those listed by Healthgrades or on a hospital or practice website. Look for physicians who have completed an accredited fellowship in a sub-specialty related to your condition or injury.
If you have Medicare or Medicaid, contact your health insurance company to find out which physicians are in your network. Also, check with a physician before scheduling an appointment to ensure that your care will be covered. For instance, some doctors may not accept patients with original Medicare, but they might be willing to treat you if you have an Advantage or other private health insurance plan.