What it is
An orthopedic surgeon is a physician trained in conditions of the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments and tendons. Despite the name, many orthopedic surgeons spend a lot of their time on non-surgical care, and many focus on one area, such as the hip, knee, shoulder, spine or hand.
A sports medicine doctor focuses on injuries and conditions related to physical activity. Some are orthopedic surgeons who completed extra sports training. Others come from primary care, emergency medicine, physical medicine or other backgrounds and do not perform surgery. 'Sports medicine' is not only for athletes. It can apply to anyone who is active.
So the two categories overlap rather than compete. One person may be both an orthopedic surgeon and a sports medicine specialist. Another may be a non-surgical sports medicine physician who works closely with surgeons when needed. Checking each doctor's training and focus is the clearest way to tell them apart.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, people with joint or bone problems have often started with a primary care doctor or a non-surgical sports medicine physician, especially for sprains, overuse problems and aches that come with activity. These visits often center on talking through what's happening and what has been tried.
Orthopedic surgeons have traditionally been involved when a problem is more complex, such as fractures and orthopedic trauma, advanced joint wear that may lead to hip or knee replacement, or injuries that may need a surgical opinion. Even then, surgeons commonly discuss non-surgical options as part of the conversation.
Care is often a team effort. Physical therapists, athletic trainers, imaging specialists and primary care doctors may all take part. Which path is used, and in what order, varies by person and is decided by a licensed clinician after an evaluation.
How the right orthopedic doctor may help
The right orthopedic doctor may help you sort out what is going on, explain your options in plain language, and tell you when a different specialist might fit better. A visit generally includes questions about your history and daily life, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging. What happens next depends on your situation.
Helpful questions include: What is your training and main focus? How often do you see people with my kind of problem? Which non-surgical and surgical options exist, and what are the tradeoffs of each? What might recovery look like in general terms, knowing it varies from person to person?
If surgery is ever suggested, a second opinion is a reasonable and common step before a major procedure. If anyone offers biologic or 'regenerative' injections such as PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical or exosome products, ask about their FDA status. Many are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses, and insurance often does not cover them.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Pain and injury can bring worry, poor sleep or frustration, and stress can make the body feel tenser and more sensitive. Taking a whole-person view doesn't mean the pain isn't real. It means that caring for your overall well-being may be part of the picture.
Some people find body-based support helpful, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences. Others value talking with a licensed counselor through Therapists.plus, especially during a long recovery or a setback. These can sit alongside your orthopedic care, and your doctor can help you decide what fits.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice. Only a licensed clinician can evaluate you and decide what is appropriate.
- Recovery times and results are general ranges that vary from person to person, and nothing here is a promise or guarantee.
- Consider a second opinion before any major surgery, and ask your insurer what is and isn't covered.
- For emergencies such as severe injury, a visibly deformed limb or heavy bleeding, call 911. If you are in emotional crisis, call or text 988.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an orthopedic surgeon vs sports medicine doctor?
An orthopedic surgeon is a physician trained in the musculoskeletal system who can perform surgery. A sports medicine doctor focuses on activity-related injuries and may or may not be a surgeon. The two roles overlap, and some doctors are both.
Should I see an orthopedic surgeon or a sports medicine doctor first?
There is no single right answer, and it depends on your situation. Many people start with a primary care or sports medicine doctor for activity-related problems, while others go to an orthopedic doctor directly. A licensed clinician can help you decide after an evaluation.
Is a sports medicine doctor a surgeon?
Not necessarily. Some sports medicine doctors are orthopedic surgeons with extra training, and others are non-surgical physicians. You can ask any doctor about their training and whether they perform surgery.
Do I need to be an athlete to see a sports medicine doctor?
No. Sports medicine care can apply to anyone who is active, from weekend walkers to gardeners to competitive athletes. It is about movement and activity, not skill level.
How do I find an orthopedic doctor near me?
You can start with a directory, your insurance network or a referral from your primary care doctor. Look at each doctor's training, area of focus and the conditions they see most often. Best Orthopedic Doctors can point you to educational resources and independent providers.
Will an orthopedic doctor automatically recommend surgery?
No. Many orthopedic doctors discuss non-surgical options first, and surgery is only one possibility among several. If surgery is suggested, it is reasonable to ask questions and get a second opinion.
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.