These are some of the most common questions we get –
maybe you’re wondering about some of them too.
If you do not find your question on the list please feel free to call us at 973-579-7443.

What is orthopaedics?
Orthopaedics is the study and treatment of the musculoskeletal system of the human body. That includes joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and even nerves. And an orthopaedic doctor has specialized training to best treat those parts of the body.

Why do you spell it that funny way?
Well you can actually spell it two ways – “orthopedic” or “orthopaedic.” The latter is the way the ancient Greeks would have spelled it, so that’s what we decided to go with.

What makes sports medicine different than
other kinds of medicine?
Doctors with training in sports medicine are specifically able to treat someone who suffers a sports or exercise-related injury, and this training makes them better able to diagnose and treat these kinds of injuries.

How long will it take to rehabilitate my injury?
We wish we could answer this question so easily, but like each person is different, so is each injury. After a consultation and diagnosis, we will be able to give you a general range for how long it will take for you to return to full activity, but part of that rests in your hands and in your diligence in following your rehabilitation regimen.

Will I still be able to do the things I want
to do after joint replacement?
In most cases, replacing a damaged joint with an artificial one leads to easier movement and reduced pain. That means that most of the time you not only can return to the activities you had prior to surgery, but you can often resume activities you gave up previously due to pain or discomfort.

What exactly is arthroscopic surgery?
Instead of the open surgery of the old days, where a joint had to be cut open for treatment or internal examination, today we can make two small incisions for the arthroscope, which allows us to see what is happening on a screen, and the surgical instrument, if we need to make any repairs to the joint. Since we’re making a much smaller incision and we’re not opening up the entire joint, swelling and scarring is significantly reduced. This means a much faster and fuller recovery for you.

Should I take a calcium supplement?
Research has shown that most people don’t get enough calcium in their diets. That’s not just the elderly. That includes everyone – even teens. You can get most of the calcium you need in your diet…as long as you eat enough dairy products and/or green, leafy vegetables. But most people aren’t able to do that either because of dietary restrictions, lifestyle, or simply taste. That means most people should take a calcium supplement to avoid any problems with your bones down the road.

How do I know if I’ve found the right orthopaedic surgeon?
Although you should always make sure your doctor is certified, and all of us at Andover Orthopaedics is certified by the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, that’s often not enough. Certification may examine a doctor’s experience and technical expertise, but your doctor should also answer all of your questions, ask questions you didn’t think of, and consider all of your fears and concerns…before, during, and after treatment. And you get all of that at Andover Orthopaedics.