If you have ongoing joint pain, back or neck problems, or a recent injury, you have probably been told to “see an orthopedic surgeon.” Many patients are not sure what that really means. Are orthopedic surgeons only for major surgery? Do they treat everyday conditions like arthritis and tendonitis, or only fractures and joint replacements?
This guide explains what an orthopedic surgeon does, which conditions they treat, when to see one, and how they help you avoid unnecessary surgery whenever possible.
What Is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and spine. They complete:
Four years of medical school
A five year orthopedic surgery residency
Often one or more additional years of fellowship training in a subspecialty such as spine surgery, sports medicine, or joint replacement
Many orthopedic surgeons are board certified, which means they have met strict standards in training, knowledge, and ongoing education.
Orthopedic surgeons at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics treat a wide range of problems, including:
Spine conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and degenerative disc disease
Joint and tendon problems such as rotator cuff tears, ACL injuries, and torn meniscus
Arthritis and chronic joint pain, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Foot and ankle issues like plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, and Achilles tendonitis
Nerve problems including carpal tunnel syndrome and pinched nerves
Conditions Orthopedic Surgeons Commonly Treat
Orthopedic surgeons care for the entire musculoskeletal system, from the neck down to the feet. Some of the most common categories include:
Spine and Back Pain
Many patients first meet an orthopedic surgeon because of chronic back or neck pain. Causes include:
Learn more about back and neck pain causes here:
Joint, Sports, and Soft Tissue Injuries
Orthopedic surgeons are also joint and sports injury experts. They treat:
Labral tears in the hip or shoulder
ACL injuries, torn meniscus, and other knee conditions
Trochanteric bursitis and bursitis in other joints
Overuse conditions like tennis elbow
Foot and Ankle Problems
Orthopedic foot and ankle specialists treat:
Complex problems such as diabetic foot ulcers
Types of Surgery Orthopedic Surgeons Perform
While orthopedic surgeons always consider non surgical care first, they are trained to perform a wide range of procedures when surgery is the best option.
Spine Surgery
Spine surgeons focus on relieving nerve compression, stabilizing the spine, and reducing pain. Common procedures include:
Decompression surgeries
Fusion surgeries
Motion preservation surgeries
You can explore a full list of spine procedures here:
Spine and Back Treatments
Joint Replacement and Reconstruction
Orthopedic surgeons also perform joint replacements and reconstructive surgeries, such as:
These surgeries relieve pain and restore movement when cartilage is severely damaged.
Arthroscopic and Soft Tissue Procedures
Many surgeries are performed using arthroscopy, where the surgeon works through small incisions with a camera and instruments. Examples include:
Foot and Ankle Surgery
For complex foot and ankle problems, orthopedic surgeons may perform:
Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons also treat the hands and upper extremities, including:
A broader overview of surgical options is available here:
Surgical Treatments
Do Orthopedic Surgeons Only Do Surgery?
A common misconception is that orthopedic surgeons only operate. In reality, they spend much of their time preventing surgery and helping patients improve with non surgical care.
Non surgical treatments offered at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics include:
Physical therapy and targeted exercise programs
Medications and anti inflammatory treatments
Injection therapies such as
Regenerative medicine such as stem cell treatment
Comprehensive non surgical pain management
Orthopedic surgeons create a stepwise plan that often begins with these conservative treatments. Surgery is recommended only when necessary.
What Happens at an Orthopedic Appointment?
If you have never seen an orthopedic surgeon before, you might be unsure what to expect. A typical visit includes:
1. Detailed History and Symptom Review
The surgeon asks about:
Where your pain is located
How long it has been present
What makes symptoms better or worse
Any injuries, falls, or accidents
Work activities, sports, and daily movements
You can read more here:
How Long Does an Orthopedic Appointment Take
2. Physical Examination
Your orthopedic surgeon evaluates:
Range of motion and flexibility
Strength in different muscle groups
Sensation, reflexes, and nerve function
Gait and balance
Posture and alignment
3. Imaging and Diagnostic Tests
Depending on your condition, the surgeon may order:
X rays
MRI or CT scans
Nerve studies for certain problems
These studies help reveal disc herniations, arthritis, deformities, fractures, and more.
4. Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your goals and findings, you receive a plan that may include:
Home exercise or physical therapy
Medications or injections
Bracing or activity modifications
Minimally invasive surgery when needed
If you are unsure about a recommended surgery, you can always request a second opinion:
Second Opinion From an Orthopedic Doctor
or schedule a dedicated visit here:
Second Opinion Program
When Should You See an Orthopedic Surgeon?
You should consider seeing an orthopedic surgeon if you have:
Pain that lasts more than six to twelve weeks
Pain that interferes with work, sleep, or daily activities
Radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
Joint stiffness or swelling that does not improve
Difficulty walking, standing, or using the hands
A recent car accident or slip and fall injury
If you are specifically worried about your spine, this guide can help:
10 Signs You Need a Spine Surgeon
Types of Orthopedic Specialists
Many orthopedic surgeons focus on specific areas to provide highly specialized care:
Spine surgeons who focus on back, neck, and nerve conditions
Sports medicine and arthroscopy specialists for athletic injuries
Joint replacement surgeons for hips, knees, and shoulders
Foot and ankle surgeons for complex lower extremity problems
Hand and upper extremity surgeons for hand, wrist, and elbow issues
You can explore expert profiles here:
Meet Our Doctors
How to Choose the Right Orthopedic Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon can have a major impact on your outcome. Look for:
Board certification in orthopedic surgery
Fellowship training in the area you need, such as spine or sports medicine
High volume experience with your specific procedure
A focus on minimally invasive techniques and motion preservation when appropriate
Clear communication and willingness to answer questions
Access to advanced imaging, navigation, and rehabilitation resources
You can start your search here:
Find a Doctor
If you are unsure whether you qualify for a specific treatment, you can use:
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If ongoing pain or limited movement is affecting your quality of life, an orthopedic surgeon can help you find out what is really going on and build a plan for lasting relief.
Ready to get started?
Find an orthopedic specialist:
https://mountainspineorthopedics.com/find-care/find-a-doctorBook an appointment online:
https://mountainspineorthopedics.com/find-care/book-an-appointmentRequest a free MRI review:
https://mountainspineorthopedics.com/find-care/free-mri-reviewLearn more about your condition:
https://mountainspineorthopedics.com/area-of-specialty
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common patient questions about this topic.
What is orthopedic treatment?
Orthopedic treatment includes any therapy that targets the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or spine. This can range from physical therapy and bracing to injections or surgery. You can explore specific options here:
Orthopedic Treatments
What parts of the body do orthopedic surgeons treat?
Orthopedic surgeons treat the entire musculoskeletal system, including the spine, neck, back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, ankles, and feet.
Do orthopedic surgeons always recommend surgery?
No. Most patients begin with non surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, bracing, or injections. Surgery is considered when conservative care has not worked or when there is serious nerve or joint damage.
When should I get a second opinion from an orthopedic surgeon?
You should consider a second opinion if you are unsure about a recommended surgery, feel rushed, or want to know if minimally invasive options are available. Learn more here:
Getting a Second Opinion From an Orthopedic Doctor
