Fixing Bones and Improving Lives: The Role of the Orthopedic Surgeon

D. Hodari Brooks, MD

As a board certified orthopedic surgeon practicing in the greater metropolitan Atlanta area, I, along with my fellow partners of Pinnacle Orthopedics, treat literally thousands of patients on an annual basis. One of the reasons that many of us chose a career in orthopedic surgery is that this particular area of medicine allows us to have a positive and relatively quick impact on our patient's lives. Although we cannot fix every injury, the majority of treatment options available usually allow us to reduce our patient's pain and improve their function, even when a definitive cure is not possible.

Unfortunately, as many of my readers are aware, the experience of sustaining an orthopedic injury, such as breaking a bone, is not a pleasant one. However, the majority of these injuries can be effectively treated; usually healing within 6-8 weeks. Some broken bones do require surgery but the majority can often be treated effectively with casts, braces, and/or activity modification. The biggest mistake that I see patients with injuries make is that they do not see an orthopedist when they first suspect a serious injury. If you or a loved one sustains a significant injury that does not start to improve within 48-72 hours, then you should start to be concerned that it may be serious. What you may not realize is that broken bones, for example, will usually heal with or without appropriate treatment. The problem, however, is that when they are left to heal on their own, they can heal in improper positions which leads to lifelong problems. Thus, the need for appropriate treatment is critical.

In addition to fixing broken bones, orthopedic surgeons treat a variety of injuries affecting the other important parts of the musculoskeletal system, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Just like broken bones, these injuries can be very painful, and if not properly treated, can result in a significant decrease in one's quality of life. Fortunately for our patients, just like broken bones, the overwhelming majority of these injuries can be effectively treated in a relatively timely manner. Again, the key is not to delay seeking appropriate treatment.

So although a visit to your orthopedist may be a trip you prefer to put off, you should remember that we can often have you back on your feet and participating in all of your favorite activities sooner than you think. So don't be afraid to take the road less traveled - seeking timely and appropriate treatment of your injury will help you get back to enjoying this journey called life.