Comprehensive Orthopedic and Spine Care in West Palm Beach

The Institute for Advanced Orthopedics at St. Mary's Medical Center provides complete orthopedic care to patients who require more specialized care. Our center features experienced orthopedic physicians and a multidisciplinary team that includes dedicated nurses, rehabilitation therapists, discharge planners and pain management professionals.

What Is Orthopedics?

Orthopedics, also known as orthopedic surgery, is a branch of medicine that focuses on treating and managing injuries and diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. This complex system allows us to move and do physical activities.

What Is an Orthopedic Specialist?

An orthopedic specialist or an orthopedic surgeon (also called an orthopedist) treats various musculoskeletal conditions, such as sports injuries, joint pain and back problems, using nonsurgical and surgical approaches. Some orthopedists are familiar with all aspects of the musculoskeletal system, while others specialize in certain areas, such as:

• Foot and ankle
• Hand and wrist
• Hip replacement and reconstruction
• Knee replacement and reconstruction
• Orthopedic oncology (bone tumors)
• Orthopedic trauma
• Pediatric orthopedic surgery
• Shoulder and elbow
• Spine
• Sports medicine

Orthopedic specialists work with an orthopedic treatment team, which may include:

• Neurologists
• Pain specialists
• Primary care doctors
• Physiatrist
• Sports medicine specialists

Several medical conditions can affect the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Some of the conditions that orthopedists treat are as follows:

• Fractures
• Nonunions
• Malunions
• Osteoporosis
• Congenital bone diseases
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Bursitis 
• Chondromalacia patellae
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteomyelitis
• Septic arthritis
• Tendinitis
• Strains or sprains

What to Expect During an Appointment With an Orthopedic Doctor?

During your first appointment, your orthopedic doctor may start with a physical examination and order any or a combination of the following imaging tests to help diagnose your condition:

• X-rays
• Bone scans
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Arthrogram (joint X-ray)
• Discogram

For acute injuries, such as fractures and dislocations, your orthopedic doctor may have to manipulate or reset your affected joint and immobilize it using a splint, cast or brace.

Your orthopedic doctor may also discuss various treatment options if you have chronic musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain or arthritis and may recommend one or more of the following treatments or procedures:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Home exercise programs
• Injections
• Acupuncture
• Mobility aids
• Surgery, as a last resort

When Should I See an Orthopedic Specialist?

It can be a good first step to see a primary care doctor if you have yet to find out the cause of your musculoskeletal symptoms. It is advisable to see an orthopedic specialist for the following symptoms and conditions:

• Constant or occasional pain for more than three months
• Limited range of motion
• Symptoms that affect daily mobility
• Difficulty standing or moving around
• An acute injury that does not respond to first aid treatments, such as ice or over-the-counter medications

If you need a second opinion about either a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation, you can also consult with an orthopedic surgeon.

Go to the nearest emergency room if your injury requires immediate medical attention, such as:

• Fracture or broken bone
• Intense pain
• Inability to bear weight or move
• Severe bleeding
• Loss of consciousness

Why Choose St. Mary's Medical Center for Orthopedic Care?

The experienced orthopedic doctors in West Palm Beach, Florida, at our Spine & Orthopedic Center can provide care in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of bone, muscle, tendon and joint disorders for every family member. Our individualized program uses advanced technology and treatment options combined with compassionate care.

Before admission, patients will attend a one-on-one pre-operative appointment to help prepare for their visit. We offer discharge education to explain the necessary steps for at-home healing.

While visiting St. Mary's, our dedicated patient navigator will help ensure a pleasant hospital stay for patients and visitors. Additionally, we provide a comfortable setting in a private room with specially prepared meals and internet access. Upon request, accommodations are available for support throughout the patient's admission.

The Institute for Advanced Orthopedics at St. Mary’s Medical Center offers a full spectrum of orthopedic care, which includes:

• Experienced orthopedic doctors and allied medical staff
• Three-dimensional full-body imaging
• Inpatient and outpatient surgery
• Scoliosis treatments
• Sports medicine
• Limb lengthening
• Knee/hip/shoulder replacement
• Additional orthopedic corrections

For adult patients requiring a hospital stay after surgery, the Surgical Special Care Unit at St. Mary’s Medical Center can help make your recovery more comfortable with its exceptional nursing care and homely atmosphere. To help provide a resort-like environment, patients have access to flat-screen TVs, contemporary furnishings, wireless internet access, personal safes and refrigerators, handicap-accessible showers and more.

Additionally, our orthopedic concierge works with patients and healthcare providers to coordinate hospital care. If necessary, we can also obtain special equipment and schedule physical and occupational therapy to help support your healing process.

Orthopedic Patient Navigator

At the Joint Replacement Center at St. Mary's Medical Center, we want to help make your surgery experience as comfortable as possible. Our dedicated adult orthopedic patient navigator will be by your side every step of the way to:

• Personalize the registration process
• Educate you and your family on what to expect before, during and after surgery
• Provide a tour of the Surgical Special Care Unit
• Perform routine follow-ups throughout your hospital stay and after discharge

Insurance and Payment Plan Options

Do you have an upcoming procedure or surgery you've been putting off? Don't delay care. St. Mary's Medical Center accepts various insurance plans and offers flexible payment plans to get the high-quality care you need while helping you and your family with costs. We offer payment plans for most treatments and procedures, including but not limited to knee, hip and back procedures. 

We have a dedicated staff to answer your questions about your insurance coverage and financial arrangements. Please call us at 866-904-6871 or visit our patient financial resources page for your billing and insurance questions. If you have specific questions about your coverage, please contact your insurance provider directly. 

Find Orthopedic Doctors in West Palm Beach

If you're experiencing pain or discomfort from an undiagnosed musculoskeletal condition or injury, St. Mary's Medical Center is your destination for bone, joint and muscle care in West Palm Beach. Speak with one of our experienced orthopedic doctors for proper diagnosis and advice on the best orthopedic options for your aching bones, joints and muscles. Please call 561-844-6300 or go to this page to find an orthopedic doctor near your location. If it's an emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.