How do I know if I need to see an Orthopaedic Surgeon?
The most common signs or symptoms that you should look out for include:
Chronic pain – if the pain is affecting your everyday life and is becoming too much for you. You aren’t sleeping and often simple tasks become harder such as walking.
Trouble performing your daily activities – such as difficulty climbing stairs, getting on or off the toilet, or hanging out washing due to pain or stiffness.
Increasing stiffness or red, swollen joints – can indicate a joint condition such as arthritis and is manageable with a proper treatment plan.
You visit your GP or allied health professional and they suggest it – they will know when it’s time to look deeper into a musculoskeletal condition and often know your body and have a relationship with you, where their professional opinion can help to diagnose any problems and put your mind at ease.
You have an injury that doesn’t seem to be getting better – there may be more happening than meets the eye, which an orthopaedic specialist will know how to diagnose and treat. You don’t have to accept any pain as simply ageing.
You want to know your treatment options – Dr. Khoury can discuss what’s available in terms of surgical and non-surgical management options - often seeing patients multiple times over several years while treating a condition conservatively until surgery may be required.
Your loved ones want you to – they have your best interests at heart and may see changes you haven’t noticed or have learnt to put up with. Ultimately, it is always your decision as a patient, however, often having an initial consultation will answer your questions and provide a pathway for you that you’re in control of and work with Dr. Khoury to manage.
If you are currently in pain and have been for some time, it might be the right time to speak with your GP and seek a referral to see a specialist to discuss your health further. Living in pain isn’t necessary and there are options available to assist you now and into the future.