Orthopedic Surgeon: What They Do, When You Need One, and What to Expect

When your knee gives out, your back won’t stop hurting, or a fracture won’t heal right, you’re often sent to a orthopedic surgeon, a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and operating on the musculoskeletal system. Also known as a bone and joint specialist, they handle everything from broken bones to worn-out hips. These aren’t just surgeons—they’re problem solvers who decide whether you need physical therapy, a brace, or a full joint replacement.

They work closely with joint replacement, a surgical procedure to remove damaged joint surfaces and replace them with artificial parts, especially for knees and hips. If you’ve heard someone say they got a new knee at 70, that’s likely an orthopedic surgeon’s work. They also treat spine surgery, procedures to fix herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or curvature issues like scoliosis. These aren’t quick fixes—they’re major interventions that require months of recovery, and the surgeon helps guide you through every step.

Not every pain needs surgery. A good orthopedic surgeon will first try non-invasive options: rest, physical therapy, injections, or braces. They know when to hold off and when to act. If you’ve been told you have arthritis, a torn ligament, or a degenerative disc, they’re the ones who’ll tell you if it’s time for a procedure—or if you can still manage it without cutting into your body.

Recovery times vary wildly. A simple arthroscopy might let you walk again in weeks. A spinal fusion? That can take over a year. That’s why knowing what kind of surgery you’re facing matters. The posts below break down real timelines for common procedures—from knee replacements to shoulder repairs—and what actually affects how fast you heal. You’ll also find what makes someone a bad candidate for surgery, what to avoid after an operation, and why some people bounce back faster than others.

Whether you’re considering surgery, recovering from one, or just trying to understand why your doctor recommended a specialist, this collection gives you the straight facts—not hype, not marketing, just what happens in the clinic, the OR, and the rehab room.