An orthopedic physician specializes in injuries and diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system and is specially trained to diagnose, treat and facilitate rehabilitation from an infection, sports injury, bone fracture, arthritis or other degenerative condition. An orthopedist can address anything ranging from a sprained ankle to complex surgical procedures such as a total hip or shoulder replacement.

At Novant Health, our areas of orthopedic specialization include:

• Elbow
• Foot and ankle
• Hand and wrist
• Head injuries and concussions
• Hip conditions
• Knee conditions
• Shoulder
• Spine (neck and back)
• Bone health
• Joint replacement
• Sports medicine

A typical orthopedic appointment starts with discussing your medical history and past treatments. Your orthopedist will conduct physical tests to determine your range of motion, swelling, reflexes and skin condition. They may also run diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs) and lab tests (blood or urine) to better understand your issue. Your physician may also explain your treatment options and any associated benefits or risks.

To find and book an appointment with a Novant Health orthopedist near you, use our Physician Finder.

You may first see your PCP in the event you are experiencing pain. Depending on the severity of your issue, we recommend immediately going to urgent care or an emergency room. If you have any of the following symptoms, however, we suggest directly going to an orthopedic specialist:

• Chronic pain that has lasted for more than 12 weeks
• A decreased range of motion or joint mobility
• Trouble performing daily activities such as walking upstairs
• Feeling a numbness or tingling sensation in your arms or legs
• Recently suffered a sports-related injury

To find and book an appointment with a Novant Health orthopedist near you, use our Physician Finder.

Our orthopedic physicians at Novant Health perform various procedures depending on your needs. Typically, they will opt for minimally invasive procedures before recommending surgery.

Common non-surgical procedures include:

• Recommending specific exercises and stretches
• Immobilization techniques (braces, splints, casts)
• Prescribing medication
• Providing lifestyle change recommendations
• Pain management, such as steroid injections

Common surgical procedures include:

• ACL repair
• Joint replacement (like knees or hips)
• Internal fixation
• Fusion
• Osteometry
• Soft tissue repair
• Release surgery

For a more comprehensive list of services provided, please contact your orthopedist.

Our orthopedists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including, but not limited to:

• Tennis elbow
• Osteoarthritis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Fractures
• Osteoporosis
• Neck and spine pain and injury
• Joint pain
• Concussions

For a more comprehensive list of conditions treated, please contact your orthopedist.

To get the most out of your appointment, here are some questions that can help your orthopedist understand the best course of action to take:

• What’s causing my pain?
• What does the pain I’m experiencing mean?
• How can I prevent future orthopedic issues?
• Are there any foods, drinks or activities I should avoid during my treatment?
• Are there any risks to this treatment plan?
• What are the benefits of this treatment plan?
• What experience do you have in treating my specific condition?

You can use these questions as a starting point, but we encourage you to add any that relate to the reason for your visit or that will help you manage your condition.