Orthopedist: what they treat and when to see one
An orthopedist (orthopedic surgeon) specializes in the musculoskeletal system: bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Despite the word surgeon, most orthopedic visits end in physical therapy, injections, or bracing rather than an operation.
What a orthopedist treats
- Joint pain, stiffness, and arthritis
- Back pain and neck pain
- Knee, shoulder, hip, and ankle problems
- Sports injuries, sprains, and muscle tears
- Fractures and post-injury recovery
- Limited range of motion
- Carpal tunnel and repetitive strain injuries
When to see a orthopedist
- Joint pain has lasted more than a few weeks
- You cannot fully move a joint or bear weight on it
- Pain followed a specific injury and is not improving
- A joint is visibly swollen, unstable, or locking
- Pain wakes you at night or limits your work
When to seek urgent or emergency care instead
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following. Do not wait for an appointment.
- An obviously deformed limb after injury
- Inability to bear any weight after a fall
- A joint that is hot, red, and swollen with fever
- Numbness, tingling, or loss of bladder control with back pain
Do you need a referral?
Many insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician before they will cover a specialist visit. Our referral checker shows how each plan type usually works. If you are unsure, start with your primary care physician. They can evaluate the problem, treat it directly if appropriate, and refer you if not.
Related symptom guides
Related specialties
Prepare for your appointment
Appointments are short. Our appointment prep sheet builder puts your symptoms and the right questions on one printable page you can take with you.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (medlineplus.gov)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov)
- Relevant national medical specialty association guidance
This is not medical advice. This guide explains what a specialty treats so you can pick the right type of doctor. It does not diagnose conditions. In an emergency, call 911. Read our full medical disclaimer.