Majority of the orthopedic symptoms are subtle and will become intense as time goes. It can be very tricky to relate these small symptoms to an underlying severe orthopedic issue. An orthopedic doctor is someone who specializes in such issues and plays a critical role in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention and rehabilitation of such musculoskeletal disorders. They deal with every issue. Be it a minor sprain in the ankle or a severe and complicated hip replacement surgery.

Following are some of the symptoms one needs to keep an eye on:

• Stress or pain felt in certain parts of the body while moving resulting from joints, muscles, ligaments, bones, nerves, tendons.
• Swelling around the joints which causes severe pain
• Medication, rest, physical therapy, icing or any non-surgical treatment did not provide any relief to the present condition.
• X-Rays, MRI scans show a shift in joints, fractured bones and tear in ligaments or tendons are some of the severe symptoms.

Who should undergo an orthopedic surgery?

• A person with very good health and has a decent immunity system can easily undergo an orthopedic surgery. Undergoing an anesthesia without much fuss and healing rate are very important post the surgery.
• A person who doesn’t smoke or drink excessively should be an ideal candidate for orthopedic surgery as drinking and smoking can drastically increase the risk for complications. A patient can stop drinking and smoking for a period of time where he undergoes an orthopedic surgery.
• Orthopedic surgeries are complicated and provide excellent results for a majority of the patients. However, a patient has to keep realistic expectations as not all experience a complete resolution of the issue.

Proper healing is a very important factor when it comes to an orthopedic surgery. It may take several weeks for some orthopedic surgeries to heal. It’s best to get adequate rest for days or even weeks after an orthopedic surgery. Following the post operation, directions prove vital for effective healing. Medicines have to be taken routinely to help the body deal with the surgery. Ice can be used to deal with inflammation. Any complications post the surgery it is always best to straightaway consult the surgeon.