What it is
An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who focuses on the musculoskeletal system. That includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. Despite the title, many orthopedic doctors spend much of their time on non-surgical care and only some patients ever need an operation.
Many orthopedic surgeons focus on a particular area or type of care. Some common areas are sports medicine, hip and knee replacement, fractures and orthopedic trauma, spine, shoulder and elbow, hand, and foot and ankle. Others treat children. A surgeon who is a good fit for one concern may not be the usual choice for another.
Choosing a surgeon is a personal decision. Training, experience with your type of concern, communication style, location and insurance all play a part. No single factor makes one doctor right for everyone, and only a licensed clinician can say what is appropriate for you after an evaluation.
How it’s traditionally been approached
People have traditionally found an orthopedic surgeon through a referral from a primary care doctor, a physical therapist or a friend or family member. Insurance directories and hospital websites are also common starting points. Many people use a mix of these sources.
When comparing surgeons, people often look at whether the doctor is licensed and board certified, whether they completed additional fellowship training in a specific area, and how often they care for concerns like theirs. Some also look at which hospitals or surgery centers the doctor uses and whether those facilities take their insurance.
It is also common to meet with more than one surgeon, especially before a major operation. Many people find a second opinion helpful for understanding their options, including non-surgical ones. A good surgeon generally expects and respects this.
How the right orthopedic doctor may help
The right orthopedic surgeon may help you understand what is going on, what your options are, and what questions are worth asking. A first visit generally includes a conversation about your history and symptoms, a physical exam and sometimes imaging such as X-rays. The doctor may then explain what they found and talk through possible next steps. Nothing about a visit guarantees a particular result.
Questions you may want to ask include: What is your experience with my specific concern? What are all my options, including those that don't involve surgery? What are the risks and benefits of each? What would recovery generally involve, and how much does it vary from person to person? Who will be involved in my care, and what happens if something doesn't go as planned?
It can also help to ask how the office handles questions between visits, what costs and insurance coverage to expect, and whether the doctor would support a second opinion. Writing your questions down and bringing a trusted person to the appointment can make it easier to remember what was said. If a provider recommends a biologic or 'regenerative' injection, ask about its FDA status, since many are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses and insurance often does not cover them.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect one another. Ongoing pain or a sudden injury can bring worry, poor sleep and frustration, and stress can in turn make the body feel more tense. Facing a big decision like surgery can add to that load, so being kind to yourself during the process matters.
Some people find extra support helpful alongside their medical care. Somatic Experiences offers body-based support, and Therapists.plus connects people with talk therapy. These are optional resources that may complement, not replace, the guidance of your orthopedic doctor.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed orthopedic doctor can evaluate you and decide what care is appropriate; this page does not diagnose or recommend any treatment or surgery.
- Consider a second opinion before any major surgery, and take the time you need to feel comfortable with your decision.
- Recovery experiences and timelines are general ranges that vary from person to person, and no outcome is guaranteed.
- For a medical emergency, such as a severe injury or sudden inability to move a limb, call 911; if you are in emotional crisis, call or text 988.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I choose an orthopedic surgeon?
Start by finding surgeons who are licensed, board certified and experienced with your type of concern. Then compare communication style, hospital affiliations, insurance acceptance and location. Meeting with more than one surgeon can help you feel confident in your choice.
How do I find an orthopedic doctor near me?
You can begin with a referral from your primary care doctor or physical therapist, your insurance directory, or a directory such as Best Orthopedic Doctors. Look for a doctor whose focus matches your concern and whose office is convenient for follow-up visits. Confirm insurance acceptance before booking.
What questions should I ask an orthopedic surgeon?
Ask about their experience with your specific concern, all of your options including non-surgical ones, and the risks and benefits of each. Also ask what recovery generally involves and how the office handles questions after a visit. Bringing written questions can help.
Should I get a second opinion before orthopedic surgery?
Yes, a second opinion is encouraged before major surgery. A different surgeon may confirm the first recommendation or explain other options. Most doctors understand and respect a patient's wish to be well informed.
What does board certified mean for an orthopedic surgeon?
Board certification generally means a doctor has completed required training and passed exams in orthopedic surgery. It is one factor people look at, along with additional fellowship training and experience. You can ask the office or check with your state medical board to verify credentials.
Do I need a surgeon who specializes in my specific problem?
Often it helps to see someone who regularly treats your type of concern, such as a sports medicine, hip and knee replacement, or fracture and trauma specialist. Specialization can mean more focused experience, but it's worth asking each doctor about their background. A licensed provider can tell you which type of specialist fits your situation.
Educational resource. Best Orthopedic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent orthopedic doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.