Best Orthopedic Doctors
Understand your bones, joints and spine — and find the right orthopedic doctor
Plain-English education across every orthopedic specialty — knees, hips, shoulders, spine, hands, feet and sports injuries — and a simple way to connect with orthopedic doctors near you. Educational only — not medical advice.
About Best Orthopedic Doctors
Plain-English education across every orthopedic specialty — knees, hips, shoulders, spine, hands, feet and sports injuries — and a simple way to connect with orthopedic doctors near you. Educational only — not medical advice.
Part of Jeff Cline's R0cketShip proprietary network. Visit bestorthopedicdoctors.com to learn more or connect with orthopedic doctors.
Best Orthopedic Doctors — frequently asked questions
Is Best Orthopedic Doctors a medical practice?+
No. Best Orthopedic Doctors is an educational website and directory. We explain orthopedic conditions and specialties in plain English and help you connect with independent orthopedic providers. Only a clinician who has examined you can diagnose you or recommend treatment.
Do I need a referral to see an orthopedic doctor?+
It depends on your insurance. Many PPO plans let you book an orthopedic visit directly, while many HMO plans require a referral from your primary care doctor. Check with your insurer before you book.
What's the difference between an orthopedic surgeon and a sports medicine doctor?+
Orthopedic surgeons are trained to operate on bones, joints and soft tissue, though most of their care is non-surgical. Sports medicine physicians focus on non-surgical care of injuries and refer to a surgeon when an operation may be needed.
How do I choose the right orthopedic doctor?+
Look for a provider who focuses on your body area, ask how often they treat your condition, what non-surgical options exist, and what recovery looks like. A second opinion is reasonable before any major surgery.
When should I see an orthopedic doctor urgently?+
Seek care quickly for a suspected broken bone, a joint that looks deformed, sudden inability to bear weight, or numbness after an injury. For an emergency, call 911.
How do orthopedic providers join?+
Providers can create a free listing, or upgrade to appear across more specialty and topic pages and receive referral requests from patients nearby.
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