Musculoskeletal injuries and conditions account for more than 14% of annual health care spending in the United States. With more than 130 million ambulance trips and upwards of $245 billion dollars in medical costs incurred on an annual basis nationwide, today’s orthopedic surgeon is quite busy to say in the least. This brief article will dive into the field of orthopedics in an effort to showcase how important these medical professionals are in this day and age.
Required Education
In order to become an orthopedic surgeon in Crestview, FL, or anywhere else in the country for that matter, a budding medical professional must go through an arduous process to obtain the necessary accreditations. His or her career path mandates the following:
- Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree and four to five years of residency in a hospital facility.
- U.S. Medical Licensing Examination.
- American Board of Orthopedic Surgery Examination.
- Recertification every seven to ten years.
Due to the fact that these medical professionals are the champions of musculoskeletal health, it’s important for our regulating agencies to ensure that American orthopedic specialists are truly the best of the best.
Most Common Orthopedic Conditions
Today’s orthopedic surgeon specializes in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating a host of sports-based injuries, which reinforces a comprehensive approach to muscular, joint, and cartilage care. The most prevalent musculoskeletal diagnoses are shown below:
- Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- Fractures, dislocations, and bone abnormalities.
- Torn ligaments, tendon injuries, and general sprains and strains.
- Muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, sciatica, and scoliosis.
Modern Treatment Options
It’s important to note that orthopedic specialists try to avoid invasive surgeries at all costs. This is because the root of the issue usually stems from a deformity, misalignment, posture, or general instability. Often, you’ll see that physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and muscular manipulation can assuage many of the most common conditions. However, if surgery is required, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more qualified individual to perform the procedure than 2-time AAOS board certified surgeon Dr. Michael Gilmore – founder of Panhandle Orthopaedics. Below you’ll find the most common surgical procedures in this field:
- Arthroscopy: The surgeon uses special cameras and equipment to assess and treat issues within a joint.
- Fusion: The surgeon performs a “welding” process in which bone grafts and metal rods are used to fuse a single bone together following a fracture.
- Osteotomy: By cutting, filing, and repositioning a bone, the surgeon will be able to treat skeletal conditions and injuries.
Regardless of whether you’re struggling with any of these conditions or simply wish to learn more about musculoskeletal health, scheduling an appointment at your local orthopedic center is a wise decision.
