Orthopaedist
The word orthopaedic, sometimes spelled orthopedic, comes from two Greek words:
- ortho meaning straight
- paedia meaning children
Once devoted to the care of children with spine and limb deformities, orthopaedics now cares for patients of all ages.
An orthopaedist is a physician who has specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention of injuries and diseases of your body's musculoskeletal system. This complex system includes your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves and allows you to move, work and be active.
Orthopaedic patients have benefitted from technological advances such as joint replacement and the arthroscope that allows the orthopaedist to look inside a joint. But your visit will start with a personal interview and physical examination. This may be followed by diagnostic tests such as blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, EMG’s and MRI’s.
Your treatment may involve medical counseling, medications, casts, splints, and therapies such as exercise, or surgery. Your orthopaedist will discuss the treatment options with you and help you select the best treatment plan to enable you to live an active and functional life.
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