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Orthopedic doctor visit
orthopedist · orthopedic doctor · bone doctor · trauma and orthopedics
A doctor who treats injuries and conditions of the bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments.
For injuries, fractures, dislocations, joint or back pain, flat feet, and after bone surgery.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 40 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Scans. Bring X-rays, MRI or CT scans on a disc, and their reports.
- Clothes. Wear something that makes it easy to uncover the sore joint.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Scans on a disc and their reports
- A brace or insoles, if you wear them
- Past test results, discharge papers, and reports
- A list of your medicines, or the packs themselves
How it goes
- The doctor asks about your symptoms
- The sore area is examined and felt
- Joint movement is checked
- Your scans are reviewed, or you are sent for an X-ray
- Treatment is prescribed: rest, a brace or cast, exercises, medicines, or surgery
What you'll feel
- Checking movement in a sore joint may be unpleasant
- Tell the doctor where it hurts. They will be more careful
Afterwards
- Follow the advice on activity and support
- Ask when to come back for a check
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe pain after an injury, bone showing, a twisted leg, or you cannot move it: call emergency services
- Numbness, or blue or cold fingers or toes under a cast: see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Should I get an X-ray first?
If you have recent images, bring them. The doctor will decide if a new one is needed.
Are a trauma doctor and an orthopedist different?
Usually it is one specialty: an orthopedic doctor treats both injuries and joint conditions.