Sooner or later, practically everyone experiences a painful musculoskeletal issue or injury that involves the back, hip, shoulder, knee, or another joint. When conservative treatments – such as rest, icing, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and cortisone injections – fail to provide relief, it may be time to consult an orthopedic surgeon.
Fortunately, advances in technology and the availability of highly trained specialists, have made it possible for more people suffering from painful musculoskeletal issues to have access to quality orthopedic surgery that results in better outcomes, fewer complications, and much shorter recovery times.
Tips for Finding an Orthopedic Surgeon
However, with so many specialists to choose from, finding one who can best address your specific orthopedic issue may take some time and effort. Here are several suggestions to make your search for the right orthopedic surgeon much easier:
1. Ask for Referrals.
Start your search by consulting with those in the know and whom you can trust, such as your primary care physician or general practitioner, your physical therapist (if you have one), or your family and friends who have had experience undergoing orthopedic surgery. Once you have a list of referrals, call your insurance company to check if they cover those physicians. Remove any physicians from your list who are not covered by your insurance, as you will have to pay out-of-pocket, which can get extremely expensive with surgery.
2. Check Out the Surgeon’s Credentials.
Once you have a short list of orthopedic surgeons, you can simply browse online databases or reputable medical associations to review their backgrounds. Focus on surgeons who are board-certified and/or fellowship trained in a specialty related to your specific condition. Take note of their educational background and degrees. The more extensive their training, the more you will feel confident in their ability to address your orthopedic issue.
3. Take Note of the Surgeon’s Level of Experience.
Find out how long each doctor has been practicing in their specialties. For example, a specialist in general orthopedics, sports medicine, regenerative medicine, work-related injuries, and joint replacement surgery is not only highly qualified but likely utilizes the most up-to-date and advanced technologies and surgical approaches to provide the highest quality of care. The ideal orthopedic surgeon is one with an extensive history of successful surgical outcomes.
4. Pay a Visit to the Clinic Where the Surgeon Practices.
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential candidates, arrange an appointment with each surgeon to discuss your situation. During your visit, find out if the surgeon has the latest medical equipment and ask whether your surgery – if necessary – will be performed in-house or at a hospital.
5. Choose a Specialist Who Makes you Feel the Most Comfortable.
The right doctor will take the time to assess your medical history and needs, answer all your questions, and tell you everything you need to know about your nonsurgical and surgical options. This will enable you to feel more confident about making an informed decision about your health.
Orthopedic Surgeon Near You in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Paul Meli is a distinguished surgeon in the South Florida medical community. Dr. Meli treats a wide variety of general orthopedic conditions, as well as sports and work-related injuries, using the latest and most advanced surgical and nonsurgical techniques.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Meli, call Paul Meli Orthopedic Surgery today at (954) 324-7711 or use our online form. We look forward to meeting with you to assess your condition and offer the highest quality, personalized orthopedic care available.
