Most are already familiar with what an orthopedic surgeon does — fix aches, pains and injuries! — but do you know about the work entailed to become board-certified in orthopedic surgery?
You can take a quick glance at the bios of Texas Orthopedics’ surgeons to get a sense of the extensive training required. From graduate education to medical school to board-certification and fellowship training. It’s extensive — over many years — and we only select the best.
Texas Orthopedics’ Dr. Barbara Bergin shed some light on the topic in a special article in US News & World Report . (What Orthopedic Surgeons Do and How to Become One)
Before jumping into the training itself, it’s important to first understand…
What Does an Orthopedic Surgeon Do?
As explained by US News, orthopedic surgeons are physicians who specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions. This means bones, joints, tendons, muscles and ligaments of the body. It can include a wide range of issues from congenital (issues you’re born with such as scoliosis), traumatic injuries (a broken hip), sports injuries or ongoing issues such as arthritis and osteoporosis. There is a lot to know which is good reason why orthopedic training is long and strenuous.
What Training Is Necessary to Become an Orthopedic Surgeon?
Four years of medical school, plus a minimum of five years of residency, is mandatory for anyone who hopes to become an orthopedic surgeon, and it’s typical to also do a fellowship focused on a specific type of orthopedic surgery, such as foot and ankle surgery, described the US News article.
Dr. Barbara Bergin described, “After four grueling years of medical school, you will have five more grueling years of residency. … Most residents now do one or two extra years of fellowship in order to specialize or just get more training. Orthopedic residencies are rigorous, to say the least. It’s a moderately physically demanding specialty, but more importantly, it is psychologically demanding. The musculoskeletal system is complicated and vast. There is a lot to learn, and competency in it takes time.”
Why Training Should Matter to Patients?
Orthopedic medicine is ever evolving. Our doctors’ education never ends. They continue to pursue continuing education to stay up to date in the field and learn about advancements in their specialty.
We also find that physicians who excelled in their training are more likely passionate about the field of medicine. That type of passion translates into great patient care. We know it’s true because we see it in the way Texas Orthopedics’ doctors approach patient care — they love how orthopedic medicine has the ability to improve patients’ lives.
If you would like to make an appointment with any of our board-certified orthopedic specialists, contact us online.
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