Orthopedic Surgeon Questions and Answers

Orthopedic surgeons are specialists in treating issues affecting the musculoskeletal system, which comprises the bones and soft tissues, including tendons, ligaments, muscles and cartilage. They are experienced in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect these tissues, and can help patients recover from musculoskeletal injuries quicker and more effectively. While they often use non-invasive treatments first, in some cases surgery is required, and they can perform a wide number of different surgical procedures to restore form and function to different areas throughout the body.

When visiting an orthopedic surgeon, it is important to ask the right questions. This allows patients to better understand their condition and what is being done to ameliorate their injury. Questions need to pertain to the specific surgical procedures that have been recommended, including which joints are involved, the recovery time, how long it takes to perform the procedure, and any aftercare instructions. In addition, it is essential to ask about ways to prevent injuries in the future, as well as how to avoid re-injuring the specific area that was just operated on. Specific questions that are important to ask an orthopedic surgeon include:

-Will my joints move naturally after surgery?
-Is my joint unstable?
-How long will I be hospitalized?
-How long is the recovery period?
-When can I return to my normal day-to-day activities?
-When can I return to exercising?

When looking for an orthopedic surgeon, it is imperative to find one who has experience in treating your specific condition and performing the procedures required in your situation. It is also important that they are board-certified, as this indicates their level of expertise in performing orthopedic surgeries. Board-certified orthopedic surgeons are the most trusted individuals to perform surgical procedures on the musculoskeletal system, including the knees and shoulders. If the injury is incurred through playing sports, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports injuries is also considered a major asset, as these typically require a unique approach and knowledge set for a proper recovery.

Yes, orthopedic surgeons can specialize in treating sports injuries, like the board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Southern Sports Medicine Institute, Dr. Thomas Gautsch. Dr. Gautsch routinely cares for athletes of all levels, professional, collegiate, and high school, and specializes in unique approaches that require shorter recovery times than traditional methods. To learn more about Dr. Gautsch and his specialties, call our office today. Our kind and compassionate professionals are experienced in treating musculoskeletal injuries and can help you make a full and expeditious recovery, so you can live a good quality of life. Call us today to book an appointment to meet with our orthopedic surgeon, or visit one of our two locations: we have one clinic in Gallatin, TN, and one in Nashville, TN. We look forward to serving you! We serve patients from Gallatin TN, Nashville TN, LaGuardoTN, Cottontown TN, Castalian Springs TN, and Graball TN.