10 Tips for Finding an Orthopedic Surgeon
Updated December 2024
Imagine enjoying the afternoon on one of Myrtle Beach’s acclaimed golf courses. You pull back for a swing and then—something doesn’t feel right. Or picture yourself jumping for that game-winning basket…only to fall awkwardly on your knee.
You don’t have to be an athlete to have an orthopedic injury. These problems can affect anyone, whether they’re typing on a computer or walking down a flight of stairs.
Regardless of the cause, the right orthopedic surgeon is vital to help you get back to your regular activities, but how do you find one? What should you consider before scheduling an appointment?
We’ve compiled 10 tips for finding an orthopedic surgeon, including things to consider, questions to ask, and some background on the varied roles of these specialists.
At Conway Medical Center, we’ve dedicated ourselves to creating a comprehensive orthopedic program. Through CMC Orthopaedics, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons have successfully performed hundreds of knee and hip replacements, as well as spine, hand, foot and ankle surgeries. With comprehensive care encompassing every aspect of orthopedics, we invite you to see why we’ve received awards for medical excellence.
Top 10 Tips for Finding an Orthopedic Surgeon in Myrtle Beach
1. Look for an Orthopedic Surgeon With Solid Credentials
What do we mean by that?
We mean it’s not enough for your prospective orthopedic surgeon to have medical training. It’s vital for them to take that knowledge to the next level, demonstrating an extensive expertise that only comes from decades of experience.
At CMC Orthopedics, our doctors are board-certified. This means that they have undergone a rigorous educational and testing process beyond typical medical education to earn this honorable designation. In addition, our orthopedic surgeons are also fellowship-trained.
2. Evaluate the Doctor’s Level of Experience
Orthopedic problems can be complex, involving several aspects of bone and muscle. You want to ensure that your orthopedic doctor has the experience to solve the underlying issue instead of merely treating symptoms.
If you need a specific procedure, you should ask how many surgeries of that type the surgeon has performed.
At CMC Orthopedics, you’ll find board-certified orthopedic surgeons with extensive experience in:
- Joint replacement
- Sports injuries
- Pain management
- Osteoporosis treatment
They also focus their expertise on injuries or illnesses affecting the following:
This experience allows our surgeons to treat a wide array of issues, from carpal tunnel syndrome to spinal stenosis.
3. Gauge How Well The Doctor Listens To You
There’s actually a term for this. It’s called “medical gaslighting,” and it occurs when your doctor doesn’t listen to you, or worse, dismisses your cares and concerns. Remember that your orthopedic surgeon should always take time to answer your questions and take your situation seriously.
We recognize the importance of listening. We understand that while we have state-of-the-art technology and advanced medical care, it only accounts for part of the equation. You are at the center of our care and compassion. We want to assure you that at CMC Orthopaedics, we’ll always take your concerns seriously and take time to address any issues that are on your mind.
4. Examine the Quality of the Hospital
The healthcare facility carries a huge impact on your physician and the quality of care that you’ll receive.
While technically this has more to do with the facility than your doctor, it is still an important aspect of your care because your orthopedic doctor has privileges at the hospital where you will be receiving treatment. Therefore, it’s important that your doctor practices at a quality hospital to complement the orthopedic services you’ll be receiving from them.
We’re pleased to note that CMC Orthopaedics has received extensive accolades for the quality of care we provide, and we’ve been ranked among the top facilities in the state and in our area.
We also have an award-winning spine center, which consolidates our extensive variety of spinal services. We know that back pain keeps so many of our patients from enjoying the activities they used to—and often it makes daily chores challenging or impossible.
Through our effective treatments, we’ve seen a dramatic transformation in the quality of our patients’ lives. We even offer free informational seminars on issues that affect the spine.
5. Evaluate Insurance Coverage
You don’t want a surprise when it comes to your health care, and it’s important to be clear on whether or not your Myrtle Beach doctor is in network.
At Conway Medical Center, we work with all the major insurance carriers, but we encourage you to contact your insurance representative to be sure you understand what is covered.
6. Check Recommendations
Did your primary care doctor refer you to a specific orthopedic surgeon? Did your friend have a similar procedure performed by a physician they liked? Testimonials from satisfied patients can carry great influence.
The physicians at CMC Orthopaedics have been praised not only for their knowledge but for also taking time to listen to patients and treating them as individuals. Reviewers have also stated that the staff was polite and friendly.
7. Ask About the Orthopedic Doctor’s Specialty
Orthopedics covers a wide range of injuries and illnesses that affect the entire body. Some surgeons concentrate on joint replacement while others may specialize in spinal surgery. It’s important to know if your surgeon has a concentration in the specialty you need.
Fortunately, at CMC Orthopaedics, we have surgeons with experience in multiple orthopedic specialties. So whether you’re facing the strain of carpal tunnel syndrome or the pain of a herniated disc, we are here for you.
8. Ask About Postoperative Care
Orthopedic care is about much more than surgery. To have a successful recovery, a good orthopedic doctor will work closely with you throughout the entire process, providing pain management and helping ensure no complications arise.
At CMC Orthopaedics, our surgeons are with you through the entire continuum of care. From your first appointment through postsurgical recovery, we will continually work closely together to help ensure your best outlook for success.
9. See If They Are Members of Medical Associations
Why is this important?
It demonstrates the orthopedic doctor’s dedication to the specialty, indicating that they devote time outside their practice to be involved with organizations that will keep them abreast of the latest developments in orthopedic surgery.
10. Ask If Your Surgeon Considers Alternatives to Surgery
There are many cases where surgery is warranted, however, you want an orthopedic doctor who takes a conservative approach to medicine. This means that surgical intervention will occur only when nonsurgical methods of treatment have failed.
At CMC Orthopaedics, we implement a variety of nonsurgical techniques specifically tailored to give our patients relief. Depending upon your individual situation and diagnosis, these may include corticosteroid injections or physical therapy.
You are at the heart of our care. We are committed to treating each patient as an individual, making you an essential part of our healthcare team as we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
How to Get Started With CMC Orthopaedics
We’ve made it simple to get started. All you need to do is speak to your primary care provider for a referral, or contact us today at 843-347-7111.
In addition, you can also request an appointment online.
Need Tips for Finding an Orthopedic Surgeon? Look No Further Than Conway Medical Center
Orthopedic pain affects every aspect of your life. It keeps you off the golf course and makes it difficult to do even the simplest activities—including playing with your kids.
That’s why we offer the complete scope of orthopedic services, including our award-winning joint replacement center and orthopedic surgery. If you look closely, you’ll find we check all the boxes in the top 10 list above.
We have physicians who have extensive experience in sports medicine, comprehensive pain management and foot and ankle surgery.
Don’t let chronic pain from orthopedic problems keep you from enjoying life. Request an appointment today.
The content within this article and others on this website is only for educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. For any questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider.
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American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “Our Knowledge of Orthopedics. Your Best Health,” https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis” https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/lumbar-spinal-stenosis/
