Depending on the severity and type of the personal injuries sustained the referral might be to an orthopedic physician, neurologist or neurosurgeon. On minor injuries such as a strain, the primary care physician might refer you directly to a physical therapist for treatment or medical advice. Whatever the process, taking an active role a healthy recovery means willing to express your concerns and speak frankly with your doctor. These highly trained physicians diagnose, treat,give medical advice and perform surgery on people with bone and joint disorders including nerve impingement conditions of the spine and hip injuries. Not only do they have a wide expertise in treating back and neck personal injuries, they are often called upon to perform spinal surgeries such as the removal of a disk.
Orthopedic surgeons have one of the longest training periods.
Typically, the orthopedic physician will attend four years of medical school then another four to six years of residency training. Following residency, the surgeon will seek to be board certified in their specialty. Board certification demonstrates the highest level of training possible in the field. These doctors are skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of disease of the nervous system including the brain. These doctors do not perform surgery.