Orthopedic Doctors
Orthopedic surgeons are doctors specializing in the musculoskeletal system, such as the joints, bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles that are essential for movement and daily life. Trained orthopedic surgeons can treat, diagnose, and prevent problems with advanced precision.
Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Orthopedic Doctor Types
Orthopedic specialists and orthopedic surgeons are not the same. Orthopedic surgeon is often used by default when referring to orthopedic doctors. This is quite common because orthopedic surgeries are a common medical procedure in this field.
Many people have had some kind of encounter with an orthopedic surgeon. However, you should understand that all orthopedic surgeons are specialists, while all orthopedic specialists are not surgeons.
Orthopedic specialists, surgical or another, are qualified for assessing, diagnosing, and treating orthopedic ailments using noninvasive treatments. But, all orthopedic surgeons don’t operate just because they are qualified to do so.
Skilled orthopedic specialists with a robust healthcare system will be more interested in using advanced noninvasive technique for restoring lives. They will use computer assisted treatments and minimally invasive procedures for harvesting and growing cells for cartilage repair.
Orthopedic specialists are vital to a patient’s orthopedic care plan, whether they are operative or not. They evaluate a patient’s unique condition to provide treatment options. They also help them determine a preferable course of action. This may or may not include surgery, even if the physician is an orthopedic surgeon.
Specialist or Surgeon
Non-surgical orthopedists are a great starting point for patients that haven’t received a clear diagnosis. Most orthopedic conditions can be treated effectively without surgery. This includes the majority of sports medicine injuries as well. Patients are directed to orthopedic surgeons if surgery does become necessary.
Conversely, it is wise to speak with an orthopedic surgeon if your diagnosis includes surgery. Patients should speak with their primary care physician to determine if they require surgery. The physician would even research their condition after making a diagnosis.
Role of Primary Care Physicians
You would need to see an orthopedic specialist whenever an injury is caused by repetitive motion or is traumatic in nature. Orthopedic specialist is required even when an injury is exacerbated by repeated motion. Primary care providers, on the other hand, are the first point when a patient experiences a mix of orthopedic symptoms (joint or bone pain) and non-orthopedic symptoms.
These are a few telltale indicators that you should visit a PCP or an orthopedic specialist:
- Chronic pain
- Limited range of motions
- Inability to perform everyday functions
- Trouble standing
- Trouble walking
- Sprain
- Soft tissue injury
Importance of Sub-Specialists
Orthopedic specialists sub-specializing in treating specific body areas or particular conditions are a judicious option for patients. Sub-specialists come with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the area of their expertise. This can help patients with chronic or complex conditions.
Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for safe and proven orthopedic surgery procedures.
Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada