Imagine waking up with a sharp pain in your neck. You try to turn your head, and a jolt of pain shoots down your spine. What’s going on? You type cervical spine washington into your search engine and two potential specialists pop up: an Orthopedic Surgeon and a Rheumatologist. But who should you call? What’s the difference between the two? Let’s dive in and unravel this medical mystery.
Orthopedic Surgeon: The Bone Expert
An Orthopedic Surgeon is like a mechanic for your body. They’re the people you call when there’s a problem with your bones or joints. Think broken limbs, slipped discs, or arthritis. They can perform surgery, reset broken bones, and generally get your body back in working order. They’re the warriors of the bone world.
Rheumatologist: The Inflammation Specialist
On the other side of the coin, we have Rheumatologists. These doctors specialize in diseases that cause inflammation in your body. They deal with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and gout. If it’s a disease that causes swelling or pain in your joints, they’re your go-to expert.
Which One Should You Call?
So, who should you call if you wake up with a sore neck? That depends on a few factors. If you’ve had an accident or injury, an Orthopedic Surgeon is likely your best bet. They can assess whether you’ve damaged your bones or joints.
But if you haven’t had an accident, and your neck pain is accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue or a fever, you might want to call a Rheumatologist. They can evaluate whether your pain is due to an inflammatory disease.
Don’t Wait – Get Help Now
Regardless of who you call, the important thing is that you don’t delay. Neck pain can be a sign of something serious. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Reach out to a professional. Let them help you get back to living your life pain-free.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Orthopedics and rheumatology, are two different specialties, each with their own unique focus. When you’re dealing with something as crucial as your health, it’s essential to know who to call. Now, the next time you type cervical spine into your search engine, you’ll know exactly who you need.