When should you see an orthopedic specialist?
- For any musculoskeletal complaints with limited movement, joint fluid accumulation and/or persistent pain, it is advisable to consult a specialist. Most common: cases of acute and chronic spinal pain
- In cases of acute and chronic joint pain, limited movement
- When joint instabilities and sports injuries are detected
- For deformities due to rheumatic diseases
- Due to pain caused by static or postural disorders
- For walking difficulties
- For muscle aches, tendonitis and other soft tissue complaints
What happens during an orthopedic examination?
During the examination, the specialist first thoroughly interviews the patient about his or her congenital or inherited diseases, contingent surgeries and diseases that have occurred in the family. He then asks about current complaints: the severity, frequency, exact location, duration of pain, and whether it can be linked to any activity or period. This is followed by a physical examination of the affected body part. The specialist first examines with the naked eye to see if any abnormalities are visible, and then checks the function, stability and load-bearing conditions of the affected limb. To make an accurate diagnosis, where necessary the specialist may specify additional examinations: MRI or CT scans, x-rays, ultrasound, lab tests.
How should I arrive for the examination?
To perform the physical part of the orthopedic examination, the complainant's affected body part must be exposed, so it is advisable to arrive in clothing that can be easily removed and donned. For the first consultation the patient should bring all their previous medical records, especially the results of orthopedic examinations. In the case of previous scans and x-rays, please bring both the result and the image.
