Orthopedic vs. Pain Management Doctor: Who Should I See?

When you are dealing with ongoing pain or an injury, choosing the right medical specialist can feel overwhelming. Many people wonder whether they need an orthopedic doctor or a pain management doctor for their specific condition. Understanding the differences between these two specialties will help you make the best choice for your health needs.

In this article, we will explore the differences between an orthopedic doctor and a pain management specialist, so you can make an informed decision.

What Does an Orthopedic Doctor Do?

Orthopedic doctors specialize in treating problems with your musculoskeletal system. This includes your bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These doctors can perform both surgical and non-surgical treatments.

Orthopedic doctors treat many conditions, including broken bones, arthritis, and sports injuries. They also handle problems with your spine, shoulders, knees, and hips. If you need surgery to fix a bone or joint problem, an orthopedic doctor will perform the procedure.

Many orthopedic doctors focus on specific body parts. For example, some specialize in knee surgery while others focus on spine problems. This specialization helps them become experts in treating specific conditions.

Common Conditions Treated by Orthopedic Doctors

Orthopedic specialists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, such as:

• Fractures and broken bones
• Arthritis and joint pain
• Sports injuries like torn ligaments
• Back and neck problems
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Hip and knee replacements

Orthopedists use X-rays, MRI scans, and physical exams to determine what is causing your problem.

What Does a Pain Management Doctor Do?

Pain management doctors are specialists who focus specifically on treating chronic pain. They understand how pain affects your entire body and daily life. These doctors use many different approaches to help reduce your pain.

Pain management doctors often work with teams of other healthcare providers. This might include physical therapists, orthopedists, psychologists, and nurse practitioners. This team approach helps address all aspects of chronic pain.

Treatments Offered by Pain Management Doctors

Pain management specialists use various treatment methods, such as:

• Oral and topical medications
• Injections like epidural steroid injections
• Nerve blocks to stop pain signals
• Physical therapy referrals
• Spinal disc decompression procedures
• Spinal cord stimulators
• Counseling to help cope with chronic pain
• Alternative treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic care

These doctors also help patients reduce their dependence on opioid pain medications. They work to find safer, long-term solutions for managing chronic pain conditions.

When to See an Orthopedic Doctor

You should consider seeing an orthopedic doctor when you have specific injuries or conditions affecting your bones and joints. If you recently injured yourself playing sports, an orthopedic doctor can help determine if you need surgery.

Orthopedic doctors are also the right choice when you have conditions that might need surgical treatment. For example, if you have severe arthritis in your knee, an orthopedic surgeon can discuss joint replacement options.

You might also need an orthopedic doctor if you have ongoing problems with specific body parts. Chronic shoulder pain, recurring back problems, or hip issues often require orthopedic evaluation.

When to See a Pain Management Doctor

Consider seeing a pain management doctor when you have been dealing with pain for more than three months. Chronic pain that interferes with your daily activities requires specialized treatment approaches.

A pain management doctor in Wooster, OH, can help if your pain has not improved with standard treatments. They offer advanced options that your primary care doctor might not provide.

You should also consider pain management if you are taking multiple pain medications. These specialists can help optimize your medication regimen and explore alternatives to reduce side effects.

Several symptoms indicate you might benefit from seeing a pain management specialist, such as:

• Pain lasting longer than three months
• Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
• Depression or anxiety related to chronic pain
• Multiple failed treatments for your pain condition
• Side effects from current pain medications
• Need for opioid pain medications (like oxycodone or morphine)

Can You See Both Types of Doctors?

Many patients benefit from seeing both an orthopedic doctor and a pain management doctor. These specialists often work together to provide comprehensive care for complex conditions.

For example, if you have arthritis, an orthopedic doctor might monitor the joint damage while a pain management doctor helps control your daily pain. This team approach often provides the best results.

Your doctors will communicate with each other about your treatment plan. This coordination helps ensure you receive the most effective care for your specific situation.

Pain Management Doctor in Wooster, OH

At Wooster Community Hospital, we understand that managing pain and orthopedic conditions requires specialized expertise and compassionate care. Our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons and pain management specialists works together to provide comprehensive treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Whether you are dealing with a recent injury, chronic pain, or complex musculoskeletal condition, our specialists are here to help. We offer state-of-the-art diagnostic services, advanced treatment options, and personalized care plans to get you back to the activities you love.

Contact Wooster Community Hospital today to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists. Call us at (330) 263-8100 or fill out our appointment request form to learn more about our orthopedic and pain management services. Your path to better health and improved quality of life starts with the right medical team by your side.