Orthopedic surgeons treat more than broken bones. From torn ligaments to worn-out hips, here are the most common conditions surgery can fix — often for good.
When most people hear “orthopedic surgery,” they think of broken bones or sports injuries. But orthopedic surgeons treat a wide range of conditions that affect joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones — from everyday wear and tear to complex injuries.
If pain or mobility issues are limiting your life, surgery might not be the first step, but it could be the one that finally brings relief.
Here are some of the most common conditions that orthopedic surgery can help treat, often with long-term or even permanent results.
🏃 Joint Damage from Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis — often called “wear and tear” arthritis — gradually wears down the cartilage that cushions your joints. When conservative treatments like physical therapy or injections stop working, joint surgery may be the next step.
👀 What to watch for: Ongoing joint pain (especially in the knees, hips, or hands), stiffness, or a grinding feeling when moving.
💡 Pro tip: Joint replacement surgery can dramatically improve mobility and quality of life in severe osteoarthritis cases.
🏥 Torn Ligaments and Tendons
Injuries like ACL tears, rotator cuff injuries, or Achilles tendon ruptures often require surgery to repair torn tissue and restore full function. These injuries are especially common in athletes but can happen to anyone.
💬 Sound familiar? You felt a sudden pop or sharp pain during movement and recovery has been slow or incomplete.
💡 Pro tip: Prompt surgical repair often improves long-term outcomes and reduces reinjury risk.
🦴 Fractures That Don’t Heal Properly
Not all broken bones heal smoothly. Some may need surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone using screws, plates, or rods — especially if the break is complex or involves a joint.
👀 What to watch for: Pain that lingers beyond expected healing time, visible deformity, or difficulty using the affected limb.
💡 Pro tip: Surgery can help prevent long-term disability from improperly healed fractures.
🦶 Bunions, Bone Spurs, and Deformities
Orthopedic surgeons also treat conditions that affect the shape and alignment of bones, especially in the feet, hands, and spine. Left untreated, these issues can become painful and restrict movement.
💬 Sound familiar? You’ve adjusted your footwear or daily routine to manage a visible deformity or chronic pain.
💡 Pro tip: Many of these procedures are outpatient, with quick recovery times and lasting results.
🪑 Chronic Back and Neck Pain
Spinal surgery is sometimes necessary for issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or severe scoliosis, especially when nerve compression causes numbness, weakness, or shooting pain.
👀 What to watch for: Radiating pain, loss of coordination, or tingling in the arms or legs.
💡 Pro tip: Not all back pain needs surgery, but for some patients, it’s the only path to full relief.
Restored Function. Renewed Confidence.
Orthopedic surgery isn’t just about fixing what’s broken, it’s about restoring your ability to move, live, and enjoy life without pain or restriction. Whether you’re dealing with arthritis, an injury, or structural issues, the right surgical care can make all the difference.
We provide support, education, and referrals to experienced orthopedic surgeons so you can make informed decisions and recover with confidence.
📞 Call (242) 702-9310 to explore your surgical options with our Orthopedic & Arthroscopic Surgeon Dr. Sandeep Goud.