What does an orthopedic spine surgeon do? You should know this if you are going to get a professional spine treatment. After all, this knowledge will help you know and assess what to expect during the treatment. If you are dealing with a spinal issue, you should see a doctor immediately. We are talking about your spine here; the backbone of your body. Therefore, ignoring the issue is the most foolish thing you can do. Here, in this blog, I’m going to discuss comprehensively what does an orthopedic spine surgeon do?

What Does an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Do? A Comprehensive Guide

Here is your comprehensive on all you need to know about an orthopedic spine surgeon. From his qualifications to specializations to what he does, we have you covered for everything.

1. Who is an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon?

Orthopedic spine surgeons are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating spinal problems. Moreover, they help patients with faster healing and pain-free function throughout their treatment. The following are some of the disorders orthopedic spine surgeons specialize in treating:

• Scoliosis
• Degenerative disc disorder
• Sciatica
• Whiplash
• Traumatic injuries

If you are going through any of these issues or other than these, don’t delay; see a specialist ASAP! Besides, you should know that professional orthopedic spine specialists are certified by the board to handle spinal issues. Therefore, before knowing what does a spinal surgeon do, you should know whether or not they are certified.

“Orthopedic surgeons should have at least 14 years of formal education. Also, surgeons who are board-certified must maintain their certifications by keeping their education up to date and additional training.” – American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons

2. What Does an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Do? What to Expect

Knowing what does an orthopedic surgeon do is important. After all, it will give you an idea about what to expect from your treatment. In general, an orthopedic surgeon is a doctor who specializes in treating spine-related problems. However, there is more to it. You should also know what they actually do: the treatment process. So, here is a step-by-step guide on what is the treatment process of orthopedic surgeons.

3. Initial Diagnosis

Every Ortho Spine Surgery Lafayette begins with an accurate diagnosis of the root cause. It is because knowing the cause is important to eliminate the issue once and for all.  Besides, the diagnosis has to be accurate. After all, inaccuracy can lead to an ineffective treatment. And who wants that? No one, right? Moreover, the spinal diagnosis includes various steps. And all of them are equally important. Furthermore, the diagnosis procedure usually begins with your doctor asking some general questions about the pain. Apart from this, it includes the following:

1. Evaluation of Medical History
2. Physical Examination of the Area
3. Diagnostics tests like X-rays, MRIs, etc.
4. Personalized Treatment

After analyzing patient’s diagnostics report, the surgeon begins with treatment. It is the most crucial step of the whole process. Moreover, professionals know that every case is different and should be dealt with differently. Besides, they never rely on one-size-fits-all treatments. Because they know, this approach not efficient at all. Instead, they go for personalized treatments. Also, these treatments target the root cause and focus on eliminating them. Furthermore, a spine specialist with suggest either a non-invasive treatment or an invasive treatment – or maybe a combination of both.

5. Suggestions for Effective Medication

Apart from surgical and non-surgical methods, specialists suggest medication too. Moreover, these medications help manage the symptoms, including pain and inflammation. You can rely on your doctor to recommend you take painkillers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Moreover, your doctor may also suggest you muscle relaxants or medicines for nerve-related pain. Besides, muscle relaxants can be helpful in reducing spasms and discomfort. Remember, never take medicine by yourself; always rely on prescriptions. After all, only they can prescribe you the right dose of medications. 

6. After-Treatment Care & Support

The answer to – what does an orthopedic spine surgeon do? – can’t end with treatment or medication. It’s more than that. After all, patients need doctor’s support from complete recovery. Professionals completely understand this. Therefore, they are always ready to provide patients with proactive post-treatment support. Besides, regular checkups, they help clients with adopting a healthy lifestyle with well-balanced physical activities. Besides, they focus on making sure that the issue has gone away forever and will not be coming back. For this, they continuously monitor your recovery progress. 

When to See an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon?

Above are some diseases mentioned that make you see an orthopedic spine surgeon. Moreover, you should also know that the need to see a specialist mostly arises in case of spinal issues. Besides, if you experience the following general symptoms, it is time to see a doctor:

• Pain persists for more than 12 weeks
• Pain and numbness going down to legs
• Bowel or bladder problems
• Inflammation or redness on your back
• Pain is accompanied by fever

Final Thoughts!

Spinal issues are not something you can or should ignore.  After all, its your spine and a lot of your bodily functions depend on them. Some people think that they can get rid of the spinal issue with some self-care. Well, this can be helpful but temporarily. You have to see a doctor – an orthopedic spine surgeon – to get rid of the pain. After all, they are certified to help you. By thoroughly diagnosing your symptoms, they will devise the right treatment plan for you. Besides, your treatment plan may be a combination of different methods based on your medical condition. So, don’t delay; see a specialist when you need.