When to see a doctor
When to see an orthopaedist?
Knee, shoulder or back pain, a sports injury? Find out when to book an orthopaedist and when to go to the emergency department.
In brief
See an orthopaedist when joint or back pain lasts more than 2–3 weeks, limits movement, the joint is swollen, “clicks” or locks, or after a sports injury that doesn't need urgent help.
When to come in
- knee, hip or shoulder pain lasting more than 2–3 weeks
- joint swelling, a feeling of instability, locking
- back pain radiating to the leg or arm
- sports injuries: sprains, strains
- heel or foot pain, bunions
- numb hands (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome)
- follow-up after a fracture or surgery
Don't wait for a visit if…
- visible deformity of a limb, suspected fracture
- severe pain after a fall from height or an accident
- back pain with urinary incontinence or numbness in the groin
- hot, red, very painful joint with a fever
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Tests the doctor may order
- Joint ultrasoundglossary
- X-rayglossary
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)glossary
What to bring to your visit
- discs and reports from X-ray, ultrasound, MRI
- discharge summaries after procedures
- comfortable clothing (joint examination)
Questions and answers
Orthopaedist or physiotherapist?
When a diagnosis is needed (injury, swelling, pain of unknown origin) – start with an orthopaedist. With a known problem, e.g. overuse pain, a physiotherapist will lead the therapy.
The information is general and does not replace medical advice.
When to see a doctor
See also
When to see an internist?
When to see a cardiologist?
When to see a dermatologist?
When to take a child to a paediatrician?
When to see an ENT specialist?
When to see a physiotherapist?
When to see a psychologist?
When to see a urologist?
When to see an endocrinologist?
When to see a rheumatologist?
When to see a dietitian?
When to see a dentist?
