Your primary doctor can help treat a great number of health problems and conditions, but they always turn to a specialist when expert care is required. For example, when dealing with a slight sprain your doctor can likely treat it in the office, or even you may be able to apply first aid that can result in a healed joint. But if a sprain hasn't healed in the allotted time, or has worsened, then you will likely benefit from the services of an orthopedic doctor. It isn't just a sprain that your local Saint Thomas, VI, orthopedic doctor can treat, their specialty revolves around the treatment of injuries or conditions that affect bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. A few examples of when to see an orthopedic doctor will be covered below, but to learn much more about the practice you can contact Dr. Jeffrey Chase of Paragon Surgical Center.
If You’ve Suffered a Soft Tissue Injury
A sprain was used as an example above but also strains and twists are all soft tissue injuries. These can be treated right at home or with the help of your primary care doctor, but if there is no improvement after 2 days or if it's getting worse then the injury could include damage to ligaments, tendons, or bone, which your orthopedic doctor can treat.
If You Are Suffering From Chronic Pain
The definition of chronic pain is pain that potentially lasts longer than a year. If it's a limb or joint and you've experienced recurring pain for longer than a few days then don't wait a whole year before seeking treatment, the earlier these types of problems are treated often the less invasive the treatment.
If You Are Having Difficulty With Everyday Tasks
Whether it's from pain or you are noticing a decreased range of motion in your joints, if any of it is affecting your ability to perform basic daily tasks like getting dressed or walking up and down stairs, or even just standing up, then it's time to see a specialist.
Orthopedic Doctor in Saint Thomas, VI
There are many reasons to see an orthopedic doctor, so if you suspect that you do you can schedule a consultation in Saint Thomas, VI, with Dr. Chase of Paragon Surgical Center by dialing (217) 592-2863.