When you find out you need an orthopedic specialist, you may begin by searching for an “orthopedic surgeon near me.” That’s an excellent place to start–but once you locate a few, how do you know which is the right one for you? Choosing an orthopedic spine surgeon is a serious decision, and there’s more to consider than just proximity. Here are some things to look for and five good reasons to choose an orthopedic surgeon.
An Orthopedic Specialist Who Considers Conservative Treatment First
The right surgeon will not jump to the conclusion that you need surgery. It’s possible that more conservative measures might be more effective. In many cases, a treatment such as activity modification or physical therapy may be all you need. Be wary of surgeons who push surgery right away instead of exploring the possibility that there may be other solutions. That said, do keep in mind that some conditions will respond only to surgery.
A Surgeon with the Right Experience
When it comes to orthopedic and sports medicine, it’s important to find a surgeon who has performed enough surgeries to be comfortable and competent. In addition, they should be experienced in the same type of surgery you need. Surgeons tend to do many different types of surgeries–for example, your surgeon might perform ankle surgery, a knee replacement, an ACL surgery, and a rotator cuff procedure all in the same day. That’s all standard. But, do make sure the surgeon you choose has plenty of experience with the type of surgery you’ll be having.
A Surgeon with a Communication Style that Suits You
In elite sports medicine, many different surgeons are talented and experienced–but they won’t all be a good fit for you. That’s partly because these doctors have vastly different communication styles. When choosing an orthopedic specialist, look for one who takes plenty of time to answer your questions, explains things so that you understand them, and doesn’t make you feel rushed or unimportant.
A Surgeon with a Background in Sports Medicine
Your best bet is a surgeon who has done a fellowship in sports medicine, especially with an emphasis on the procedure you need. Many surgeons specialize in a particular area and spend time learning from other surgeons who have extensive expertise in that area. For example, your surgeon might specialize in knees, shoulders, or hips.
A Surgeon Your Insurance Will Cover
It would be nice if you could choose your orthopedic specialist based on qualifications and experience alone, but insurance is a practical matter you must consider. You can save yourself some time and inconvenience by doing your homework ahead of time. Find out who you can see for the most insurance benefits and smallest out-of-pocket expenses. Though insurance should always be a consideration, to receive the best care possible, you should choose the best sports medicine physician you can find to invest in your health and wellbeing.
While the above considerations are important, there’s one more thing to keep in mind–your gut instinct. If you feel comfortable with a surgeon and they help you feel calmer about your procedure and confident in their abilities, they are likely to be the right choice for you.