What an orthopedic doctor treats
An orthopedic surgeon (orthopaedician) is a doctor who treats problems of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. After MBBS, orthopaedic training is an MS or DNB in Orthopaedics, and many pursue fellowships in areas such as joint replacement, spine, sports medicine, trauma or paediatric orthopaedics. Despite the word "surgeon", most patients are first treated without an operation, using medicines, physiotherapy, injections and lifestyle changes.
Common conditions include fractures, knee and hip osteoarthritis, back and neck pain, slipped disc, sciatica, shoulder pain and frozen shoulder, ligament injuries (such as ACL tears), tennis elbow, heel pain, osteoporosis and bone infections, as well as bone problems in children, such as clubfoot and bowed legs.
When to see an orthopedic specialist
- Injury with severe pain, swelling, deformity or inability to bear weight — possible fracture.
- Knee, hip or back pain lasting more than two to three weeks or limiting daily activity.
- Pain that travels down the leg with numbness or weakness — possible nerve compression.
- Joint swelling, stiffness or locking, or a joint that gives way.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control with back pain, or sudden leg weakness — an emergency.
- Repeated fractures from minor falls, which may indicate osteoporosis.
Investigations
An examination is followed, where needed, by an X-ray, MRI or CT, ultrasound and sometimes a bone density (DEXA) scan. Blood tests such as vitamin D, calcium, uric acid, ESR, CRP and rheumatoid factor help separate arthritis, gout and deficiency-related pain. Many people with vague bone pain in India turn out to have low vitamin D, so this is commonly checked.
Treatment options
Initial treatment often includes rest, ice or heat, pain relief, physiotherapy, weight reduction and supportive braces. Injections (for example steroids or hyaluronic acid) may help some joints, while surgery such as arthroscopy, fracture fixation, spine surgery or joint replacement is advised when conservative care fails or an injury needs repair. Recovery depends on rehabilitation, so follow the exercise plan carefully.
What does it cost?
Orthopedic consultation fees commonly range from about ₹500 to ₹1,500 and may vary. Surgical costs, especially for knee or hip replacement, vary widely by hospital, implant and city; ask for an itemised estimate, check insurance and Ayushman Bharat eligibility, and consider a second opinion before major surgery.
How to choose
- Check MS/DNB Orthopaedics qualification and relevant sub-specialty experience.
- Ask about non-surgical options and the doctor's approach to rehabilitation.
- For surgery, ask about the number of similar operations performed and hospital infection-control standards.
Keeping bones and joints healthy
Maintain a healthy weight, stay active with low-impact exercise and strength training, get enough calcium and vitamin D, avoid smoking and use safe lifting posture. Online consultation helps with follow-up and report review, while injuries need in-person assessment. Compare orthopedic doctors and book in-clinic or online on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.