Spine surgery encompasses a range of procedures performed on the spine to address various conditions. These interventions can be recommended for issues resulting from injury, degenerative diseases, or structural abnormalities. Spinal surgery is used to relieve pain, improve stability, and restore function when non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief. Managing conditions that cause chronic pain, particularly those related to the musculoskeletal system, often involves specialized medical care. Here’s information on orthopedic surgeon specialists and how they treat musculoskeletal health conditions:
What Is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This complex system includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. These surgeons use surgical and non-surgical methods to treat a wide array of musculoskeletal issues, from fractures and sprains to chronic conditions like arthritis.
What Conditions Can They Treat?
Orthopedic surgeons manage a broad spectrum of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. A significant portion of their practice involves non-operative care, including medication, physical therapy, and other rehabilitative strategies. They treat acute problems like broken bones and torn ligaments, as well as long-term, chronic conditions that can cause persistent pain and limit mobility.
Some common conditions treated by orthopedic surgeons include:
- Arthritis
- Bone Fractures
- Sprains and Strains
- Tendon and Ligament Injuries
- Spinal Deformities
- Herniated Discs
- Joint Pain
What Are Some Orthopedic Treatments?
In the context of surgery, orthopedic surgeons increasingly use minimally invasive techniques. These approaches involve smaller incisions, which can lead to reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. When non-surgical treatments are not effective, an orthopedic doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to address the underlying cause of chronic pain or dysfunction. The type of surgery depends on the specific condition, its severity, and the patient’s overall health.
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure designed to permanently connect two or more vertebrae in the spine, eliminating motion between them. By fusing the bones, surgeons can provide stability and reduce pain caused by the movement of the affected vertebrae. This technique is often used to treat conditions like:
- Spinal Instability
- Spinal Stenosis
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Scoliosis
- Spondylolisthesis
Spinal Reconstruction
Spinal reconstruction refers to a more complex set of procedures aimed at correcting significant spinal deformities or addressing damage from trauma or tumors. This can involve the use of implants, like rods, screws, and cages, to realign and stabilize the spine. The goal of spinal reconstruction is to restore the spine’s structural integrity, improve alignment, and alleviate pressure on nerves.
MLS Laser
Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a non-invasive treatment option used to manage pain, inflammation, and edema. While not a surgical procedure, it is a tool that may be used as part of a broader treatment plan. The MLS Laser uses specific wavelengths of light to target damaged tissues and promote healing at the cellular level.
This therapy can be used for a variety of conditions, including acute injuries, chronic pain, and post-surgical rehabilitation. One of the benefits of MLS Laser Therapy is its ability to provide pain relief without the use of medications or surgery. This makes it an attractive option for those who are seeking alternative methods for managing their pain.
Contact an Orthopedic Surgeon
An orthopedic consultation allows you to discuss your symptoms and explore the possible causes with an expert. Surgeons provide guidance on available treatments, customizing them to your needs. If you are dealing with chronic pain or a musculoskeletal condition, reach out to an orthopedic surgeon today.
