What to know when choosing an Orthopaedic clinic

Who wants to spend their precious spare time worrying about lingering health issues, such as joint pain or discomfort?  That is why it is essential to find an Orthopaedic clinic that is right for you, which will supply you with the correct care for your situation. This may seem like a daunting task – however, the earlier you visit an orthopaedic clinic, the sooner your treatment can begin and, hopefully, the less severe your long-term symptoms will be.

Where to begin?

Orthopaedic care covers a wide variety of conditions that affect bones and joints, as well as damage to muscles, ligaments and nerves, including;

• Dislocations
• Fractures and sprains
• Sports injuries
• Arthritis
• Cerebral Palsy
• Osteoporosis

These conditions can be treated by an Orthopaedic surgeon. This could involve operations to relieve symptoms and pain, but an Orthopaedic surgeon may also use medications and exercise to treat their patients. Through the course of your care, you will be advised by your surgeon on the right treatments for you.

Researching your care

You may have been referred to an Orthopaedic clinic by your GP – if so, check with them to find out if there are any specific practices or clinics that they recommend. However, it could be beneficial to also research clinics and specialists for yourself. If you have friends or family who have undergone orthopaedic care, ask them for advice – who performed their surgery, how helpful their aftercare was, etc. Visiting multiple clinics will help you gain insight and perspective so that you can make a more informed decision about your own care.

The internet will prove to be a valuable asset in your research. By searching for a specific clinic, or visiting their website directly, you will be able to find a wealth of information, including testimonials from patients, as well as statistics about levels of satisfaction with the treatment given – at Highgate Private Hospital, for example, 99 % of respondents rated their overall quality of care as ‘excellent, very good or good’ .

When researching your treatment, it will be vital to know what your medical insurance will cover – your plan may put some restrictions on which clinic you can choose from. This is also a perfect opportunity to look into physical therapy, which could be beneficial in maintaining your health after your procedure; factoring this into your treatment and budget early will simplify your treatment in the long run. Private clinics can also offer a self-paying system if this is more suitable for your situation. You can discuss this option with clinics as part of your research into which options are right for you.

Preparing for your appointment

Once you’ve found a specialist that’s right for you, you may want to look into the kind of treatment that will be recommended for your symptoms – this will help prepare you for your appointment. The NHS website has an introduction to common orthopaedic surgeries, as well as links to more in-depth information about each procedure.

When at your appointment, your care starts from the moment you enter the clinic. Take note of the service you are given by office staff and nurses, as well as from the surgeon themselves – are they addressing your needs in a helpful and compassionate way? Has the surgery and aftercare been explained to you thoroughly? It’s very important to find a clinic that puts you at ease about your upcoming procedure, as well as being medically compatible.

Your visit will start with a personal interview and a physical evaluation. You may also have blood tests, X-rays and other examinations to determine the best course of action going forward. It’s important to be prepared for your appointment at the orthopaedic clinic; make sure you can describe your pain and symptoms accurately, as well as your medical history. This will help the clinic assess your situation as accurately as possible. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of anything! The surgeon will then discuss possible treatment options with you, to arrange a plan that is best suited for your health and lifestyle.

With this advice, you should be able to find the right Orthopaedic clinic for you, while feeling less stressed and more informed. If you are based in or around London, consider Highgate Private Hospital as your first choice London Orthopaedic Clinic; we provide our patients with exceptional consultant-led care. You can use our Services and Treatments search function on our website to find out more and browse Our Specialists to learn about their areas of expertise and clinic times.