When Should Patients Consider Orthopedic Surgery?

Many people experience pain or limited movement due to musculoskeletal issues, but they may not be sure if orthopedic surgery is the best solution. At USMD Hospital at Arlington, our team is committed to helping patients all across North Texas get the best possible care for their needs.

Degenerative diseases and trauma-related conditions can impact your health and quality of life. The surgeons who operate at our Arlington, TX hospital are proud to have helped countless men and women find long-term relief through state-of-the-art procedures. View our physician directory to connect with a local orthopedic surgeon.

What causes problems with the musculoskeletal system?

Orthopedics is a branch of medicine associated with the musculoskeletal system, including the bones, joints, spine, ligaments, and muscles. Even minor issues with these components can cause pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and other serious symptoms that may prevent you from functioning normally in your day-to-day life.

Common causes of these problems include:

• Degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis and arthritis
• Trauma-related injuries like those sustained in a car accident or sports-related activity
• Birth defects and congenital conditions
• Excess strain on the body caused by repetitive motions

Can you manage these issues without surgery?

In many cases, at-home treatments are enough to alleviate minor pain and discomfort. A medical professional may recommend a combination of physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes like weight loss, exercise, and improved posture to help protect your musculoskeletal system. Unfortunately, these measures are considered temporary and may only do so much to address the underlying issues.

Orthopedic surgery may be recommended when conservative efforts fail to produce lasting results. Patients throughout the DFW (Dallas/Fort Worth) metroplex can turn to USMD Hospital at Arlington for advanced surgical solutions. A wide range of orthopedic procedures is performed at our hospital, including total knee and hip replacements, shoulder arthroscopy, and more. Here are some benefits of working with our team:

• Cutting-edge techniques and technology
• Careful preoperative planning and postoperative support
• Advanced facilities for a safe surgical experience
• Compassionate communication, education, and care

What happens during an orthopedic appointment?

An appointment with an orthopedic surgeon can determine whether surgical treatment is ideal for your situation. During this visit, your orthopedic specialist can review your medical history and ask about your symptoms. The extent of your injury or condition, your age and lifestyle, and other factors that may influence your care will also be taken into account.

If surgery is recommended, our hospital provides advanced treatments designed to reduce pain and improve function. We strive to deliver compassionate, individualized care every step of the way.

When is surgery the best solution?

Some people are unsure if orthopedic surgery is the right choice for them. The surgeons who operate at USMD Hospital at Arlington strive to emphasize patient education and help ensure you understand all options before making a decision. Here are some common signs it may be time to consider orthopedic surgery:

• Recurring pain or discomfort
• Loss of mobility
• Persistent swelling in the affected area
• Difficulty with everyday activities
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness
• No improvement after several months of nonsurgical treatments

Protect your musculoskeletal system

We understand that making the decision to undergo surgery is not an easy one. If you are considering orthopedic care in the DFW area, USMD Hospital at Arlington may be able to help. Our team can perform long-lasting solutions when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide relief from musculoskeletal problems. Visit our physician directory to find an orthopedic surgeon near you.