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cure back pain

Orthopedist

An orthopedist is a medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in the musculoskeletal system. This system includes the bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons that give the body its structure and mobility. Orthopedic doctors are often surgeons, but their patients rely on them for much more than just surgical procedures.


Orthopedist

Orthopedist Training

Orthopedic practitioners receive a comprehensive education and training before practicing medicine. The entire process from college through residency averages 11 years, but can be extended to 14 or more for doctors granted sub-specialty fellowships. Many orthopedic doctors specialize in a particular type of tissue repair or area of the body. The most common areas of specialization are the hand, foot, knee, hip and spine.

Spinal Orthopedist

Orthopedic surgeons who specialize in conditions of the back are most known for their surgical procedures. Surgical correction of spinal conditions has become a diverse and profitable industry. Surgery should always be a last resort when it comes to back pain. A good doctor will always inform the patient of this fact and only recommend surgery under the following criteria:

* Conservative treatment options have been exhausted.

* Patient has an accurate and confirmed diagnosis.

* Patient understands the risks of surgery.

* Doctor is convinced that the surgery will improve the quality of the patient’s life.

Recommendation on an Orthopedist

I have consulted with several orthopedic doctors during my treatment for back pain. My primary doctor was an orthopedic surgeon with a good heart and a better brain. He never pushed me for surgery and was the only doctor to tell me the truth about the potentially mediocre or even damaging surgical results. Most of the others recommended surgery and one really pushed for it.

Do not get pressured or frightened into surgery. Orthopedic surgeons operate…that’s what they do! Do not be surprised if your orthopedic doctor recommends surgery. Be a knowledgeable patient. Ask questions. If the answers do not make 100% sense to you, FIND A NEW DOCTOR!

The overwhelming majority of orthopedic practitioners are excellent doctors with vast training in their chosen fields. They can be an incredible source of knowledge about the spine and tissues of the back. Just remember that they are also in the BUSINESS of medicine. There is always an economic component to all health care. Make sure that your back does not receive a nocebo effect just so that some doctor can get you into surgery. Learn. Question. Decide. This is the only way to make an informed decision when it comes to orthopedic surgery.
Orthopedist to Back Pain Home page 2/13/07 Revised 6/10/08


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