5 Signs You Should See An Orthopedic Doctor

Painful joints, bones, and muscles can really put a damper on things. When your daily activities have been affected or your pain is starting to affect your comfort level more than you’d like, talk to an expert about they can help alleviate your symptoms. In the case of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, an orthopedic doctor can usually set you straight.

There are many situations where an orthopedic surgeon is the specialist to turn to. For example, if you’re a regular runner, and your knee pain is starting to affect your morning running routine. Or perhaps you’re a baseball player whose shoulder is in significant pain when you pitch. Even if you are a senior citizen that is finding it difficult to go up stairs with your hip pain. If you haven’t yet pursued medical attention for your orthopedic issues, here are five common signs that it might be time to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist.

 

After a trauma or injury

 

It may have been a car accident or a significant fall, but a trauma that has caused pain or injury to your joints needs medical treatment. Weak joints or bones that have been affected could have long-term effects on your body, and eventually your quality of life.

 

Your range of motion is affected

 

If you are sleeping differently, walking differently, or changing the way you have to sit down, that means your range of motion is being affected. Though not significant, if it is not treated quickly, it could leave lasting effects that will make life more difficult later on.

 

You are in significant pain

 

There is no way around this. If you are experiencing major pain, that is a sign that something is very wrong. It could be a fracture or there could be a tear in your ligament, or something far more serious. Seek medical treatment if your pain is affecting your daily life.

 

Your quality of life is affected

 

Being able to be self-sufficient means being able to perform your daily tasks on your own. This includes getting out of bed with minimal assistance, putting on your clothes, bending over to tie your shoes, prepare food for yourself, etc. If you are not able to handle these tasks by yourself without significant pain or are changing the way you have to do them, seek treatment.

 

A checkup

 

Whether you have had orthopedic issues in the past, it has been a few years post-op, or you just want to check in on some pain that may have arisen, check in with your orthopedic doctor. It’s better to be safe and overly cautious than to be sorry.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or see these signs, consult an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. William F Hefley. While Dr. Hefley is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, there are often many less invasive, non-surgical options available for your condition or injury. With offices in Little Rock and North Little Rock, and onsite MRI and physical therapy as well, we are here to make the process as easy as possible. To schedule an appointment, call (800) 336-2412.