Hunjan Hospital Ludhiana
Orthopaedic Consultation
What an orthopaedic doctor does, when to see one, what happens at a consultation and how to prepare for your appointment.
What an orthopaedic doctor does
Orthopaedic surgeons are doctors who diagnose and treat problems of the musculoskeletal system: the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. Their work covers diagnosis; treatment with medicines, injections, casts, braces or surgery; rehabilitation; and advice to prevent further problems.[1]
Seeing an orthopaedic surgeon does not necessarily mean you will need an operation.[1] Many conditions are treated with medicines, injections, exercise and physiotherapy, and surgery may be recommended if these do not help.[2]
- Joint pain or stiffness in the knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, ankle or foot
- Broken bones and follow-up after a fracture
- Sprains and ligament or tendon injuries from sport, work or daily activities
- Back or neck pain
- Bone and joint problems in children
- Problems after previous orthopaedic surgery
The orthopaedic clinicians at Hunjan Hospital, with their qualifications, are listed in the doctor directory.
When to see an orthopaedic doctor
An orthopaedic assessment may help if you have:
- Joint pain that affects your daily activities or sleep, or is getting worse or keeps coming back[3]
- Joint pain that has not improved after 2 weeks of treatment at home[3]
- Joint stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes after you wake up[3]
- Back pain that has not improved after a few weeks of treatment at home, is worse at night or comes with unexplained weight loss[4]
- A sprain or strain that is getting worse or not improving after treating it yourself[6]
- A previous fracture or orthopaedic operation that is still causing problems
When to seek emergency care
Some symptoms need emergency care rather than an outpatient appointment. Call an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department if:
- You have very bad pain after a fall or injury, cannot walk or put weight on a joint, or a joint has moved out of place[3]
- A limb looks bent or out of shape, is numb or tingling, or a bone is showing through the skin[5]
- You have back pain with loss of feeling around the genitals or bottom, new difficulty passing urine or controlling your bladder or bowels, or pain, weakness or numbness in both legs[4]
Do not drive yourself; ask someone to take you or call an ambulance.[5] A swollen joint with hot skin, or joint pain with a high temperature, needs an urgent medical assessment.[3]
What happens at a consultation
A first orthopaedic appointment usually follows these steps. Not every step is needed for every problem.
- Step 1
Your history
The doctor asks about your symptoms, how they started, what makes them better or worse, which treatments you have already tried and how well they worked, and your general health.[2]
- Step 2
Examination
The doctor examines the affected area, for example checking movement, strength and tenderness.[2]
- Step 3
Tests, if needed
Blood tests, X-rays or scans may be suggested. If you have had recent tests elsewhere, bring them, as they may not need to be repeated.[2] Tests are not always necessary; osteoarthritis, for example, is usually diagnosed without them.[9]
- Step 4
Diagnosis and options
The doctor explains the likely diagnosis and the treatment options, including their benefits, risks and alternatives, and what may happen if you choose to wait. You can ask questions and take time to decide.
- Step 5
Plan and follow-up
You agree a plan together. This may include physiotherapy, a review appointment or referral to another specialist when needed.[2]
How to prepare for your appointment
Bringing the right information helps the doctor understand your problem.
- Previous X-ray, CT or MRI images and reports, and letters or discharge summaries from other doctors[2]
- A list of all your medicines, including over-the-counter, herbal and vitamin products[2]
- A note of treatments you have tried, when you had them and how long any relief lasted[2]
- A written list of the questions you want to ask[2]
- Your health insurance details, if you plan to use insurance
You are welcome to bring a family member or friend with you.
Things to know about tests and treatment
Tests and treatments have limitations and risks as well as benefits. Your doctor will explain these before you decide.
- X-rays use radiation. Having lots of X-rays carries a very small risk, so your doctor assesses the risks before offering one. Tell staff if you are, or might be, pregnant.[7]
- Before an MRI scan, tell staff about any metal in your body, such as surgical clips or a pacemaker, and if you are afraid of small spaces.[8]
- Every treatment, including surgery, can have complications. Ask your surgeon which complications are most common after the operation you are considering and what recovery will involve.[2]
- A diagnosis is not always possible at the first visit; further tests or a review appointment may be needed.
Questions about orthopaedic consultations
Patient pathway
Orthopaedic Consultation treatment journey in Ludhiana
Patients receive a step-by-step clinical assessment focused on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment choices, recovery expectations, and follow-up care.
Consultation
The doctor reviews symptoms, history, current medicines, and previous reports.
Diagnosis
Imaging, lab tests, or specialist assessments may be advised when required.
Treatment plan
Options may include medication, therapy, minimally invasive care, surgery, or rehabilitation.
Recovery support
The team explains risks, recovery timelines, warning signs, and follow-up steps.
References
Sources are provided for general information; a qualified clinician can advise on your situation.
This page was prepared with AI assistance and is awaiting review by a hospital clinician.
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