Orthopedic Clinics in Turkey

What is Orthopedics?

Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that specializes in treating issues related to the musculoskeletal system which consists of bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Orthopedist is a doctor who specializes in orthopedics.

Orthopedists are divided into two groups: Surgical and nonsurgical. The first ones are called orthopedic surgeons, whereas nonsurgical orthopedists include physiatrists and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists.

Orthopedic Clinic’s Services

The common services offered in an orthopedic clinic can help in diagnosing and treating many orthopedic conditions such as:

• X-rays
• Bone scans
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Arthrogram (joint x-ray)
• Discography
• Amputation
• Arthroscopic surgeries
• Bunionectomy and hammer toe repair
• Cartilage repair or resurfacing procedures
• Cartilage surgery to the knee
• Fracture care
• Joint fusion
• Arthroplasty or joint replacements
• Ligament reconstructions
• Repair of torn ligaments and tendons
• Spine surgery
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Advanced external fixation.

What to Expect During a Visit?

A person’s first visit to the orthopedic clinic primarily involves the diagnostic assessment of their current condition. This process typically includes a comprehensive physical examination and the acquisition of X-ray imaging.

In some cases, the orthopedist may conduct in-office tests or request supplementary diagnostic procedures such as an MRI scan, a CT scan, a bone scan, an ultrasound, and blood tests to validate the diagnosis. Throughout the diagnostic evaluation, the orthopedist performs the following procedures:

• Ask about the individual’s symptoms.
• Scrutinizes the person’s medical record to obtain additional insights into their medical history and overall health.
• Performs a thorough physical examination.
• Reviews any X-rays conducted prior to the appointment.

Common Treatments Offered at Orthopedic Clinic

Orthopedists specialize in addressing a diverse range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. These conditions include:

• Joint pain stemming from arthritis
• Treatment of bone fractures
• Soft tissue injuries affecting muscles, tendons, and ligaments
• Management of back pain and neck pain
• Addressing shoulder pain and related issues such as bursitis
• Treatment of conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome
• Managing overuse and sports injuries like meniscus tears, sprains, tendinitis, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
• Treating congenital conditions such as clubfoot and scoliosis
• Management of bone cancer

Orthopedists are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage these various conditions, employing a combination of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative approaches to optimize patients’ musculoskeletal health and function.

Types of Procedures

Orthopedic doctors provide a wide range of treatments and procedures for the conditions related to the musculoskeletal system.

Nonsurgical Treatments

These treatment modalities, often referred to as conservative treatments, represent the initial focus of orthopedic doctors, who prioritize non-surgical interventions before considering surgical options.

Various non-surgical treatments may be recommended, including:

• Exercises: Orthopedic doctors may prescribe specific exercises or stretches to enhance strength, flexibility, and range of motion in targeted areas.
• Immobilization: To facilitate healing, preventing additional strain may be crucial. Techniques such as braces, splints, and casts can be employed for immobilization.
• Medications: Orthopedic doctors may suggest medications to alleviate symptoms such as pain and swelling. This can encompass over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and aspirin, as well as prescription drugs like corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory medicine.
• Lifestyle Changes: Orthopedic doctors may guide patients in making lifestyle modifications, including adjustments to physical activity, diet, and exercise routines, to mitigate the risk of injury or exacerbation of existing conditions.

Surgical Treatments

In instances where conservative measures prove ineffective in addressing a condition or injury, surgical intervention may be recommended by your physician. Various surgical procedures performed by orthopedic surgeons include:

• Joint Replacement: This surgery entails replacing damaged or diseased parts of a joint, typically due to arthritis. The most common joint replacement procedures include knee replacement and hip replacement surgery.
• Internal Fixation: Involving the use of hardware like pins, screws, plates, and rods, internal fixation aids in stabilizing broken bones during the healing process.
• Fusion: This procedure involves utilizing bone graft material and internal fixation to connect two bones. As the bone tissue heals, it consolidates into a single bone. Fusion is commonly employed in neck and spine surgery.
• Osteotomy: Osteotomy is a surgical approach involving the cutting and repositioning of a bone, occasionally utilized in the treatment of arthritis.
• Soft Tissue Repair: This type of surgery addresses the extensive repair of muscles, ligaments, or tendons that have sustained significant damage.
• Release Surgery: Specifically performed for carpal tunnel syndrome, release surgery alleviates symptoms by reducing pressure on the median nerve.

When to Visit an Orthopedic Clinic?

You might consider seeking care at an orthopedic clinic if you experience:
Persistent or recurrent pain or swelling in a bone, joint, or muscle that remains unresponsive to home remedies.

• Significant reduction in joint mobility or range of motion, particularly impacting major joints like the knee, elbow, or shoulder.
• Difficulty in performing daily activities or challenges with routine tasks due to musculoskeletal issues.
• Nerve-related symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or sensations of pins and needles in the arms or legs.
• Injuries to bones or joints that require specialized attention from an orthopedic specialist.

Orthopedic clinics are equipped to address these concerns, offering comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and specialized care to alleviate symptoms and improve overall musculoskeletal health.