How to Choose the Best Orthopaedic Surgeon

February 19, 2025

Selecting the right orthopaedic surgeon is essential for successful treatment and recovery. This article will offer tips and information to help you select the best orthopaedic surgeon for your injury or disorder. Before diving into how to choose the best doctor, let’s first go over what an orthopaedic surgeon is and the services they can offer.

What is an orthopaedic surgeon?

An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and surgical correction of injuries or disorders in the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.

What services can an orthopaedic surgeon offer?

Consultation and Diagnosis – This can include an evaluation, diagnostic tests, and a treatment plan.
Non-surgical Treatments – This can include medication, injections, bracing or splinting, and physical therapy.

Surgical Treatments – This can include a variety of surgical options. For specialized treatment for the shoulder and elbow, examples include partial distal bicep tendon tear repair, rotator cuff surgery, nerve damage repair, total elbow replacement, and much more.
Rehabilitation and Follow-Up – If you require treatment or surgery, your comprehensive plan will include rehabilitation and follow-up care.

How do I know who the best doctor is for me?

You’re ready to take the next step and meet with an orthopaedic doctor but you’re unsure how to choose the best one. Follow these four tips and guidelines to help you determine your best fit.

Check the doctor’s credentials and experience – What do plumbers, tutors, dentists, doctors, and electricians all have in common? They specialize in their field, each with specific credentials and experience. Most people research individuals or companies before deciding on their provider, plan, or service. So, do your homework and look into the orthopedic surgeon’s background before scheduling a visit. If you like what you see, then plan to proceed with an initial consultation.
Ask for referrals and recommendations – Ask your primary care doctor, family, or friend for orthopaedic surgeon recommendations. Check online for reviews from other patients. Researching reviews and recommendations is a great way to start the exploration phase.

Consider the doctor’s communication style – For some people this may not be an important goal but for many of us, the communication style of a doctor can make the difference to who is ultimately chosen. Select a doctor who is patient with your questions, listens to your concerns, and explains your treatment plan clearly and thoroughly.
Review the surgeon’s success rates and outcomes – It’s perfectly normal to ask the doctor for their track records with procedures like yours. Ask about complication rates and patient outcomes. This information can help determine who the best orthopaedic surgeon is for you.

What are my next steps?

The tips and guidelines we shared above are great to include in your doctor-seeking process. In addition to those recommendations, don’t forget to ensure that the doctor takes your insurance and verify their hospital affiliation. The biggest thing to remember is to do your research to find your best fit.

Orthopaedic surgeons specialize in sports medicine, pediatric orthopaedics, trauma care, and elbow and shoulder surgery. If you are looking for an elbow or shoulder orthopaedic surgeon, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Christopher Schmidt. Renowned for his exceptional expertise and patient-focused approach, Dr. Schmidt is recognized as one of the U.S.’s top elbow and shoulder surgeons.