When searching for a spine surgeon in Orange County, it’s important to consider the surgeon’s education, training, and experience. Reading customer reviews can also help you determine if the spine surgeon would be a good fit for your health needs. Before scheduling a visit with a spine surgeon in Orange County, CA, here are a few things you should know.
What is a Spine Surgeon?
Spine Universe defines orthopedics as “a medical specialty that focuses on the body’s musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves.” Patients experiencing health issues affecting their musculoskeletal system are typically referred to an orthopedic, or spine, surgeon qualified to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions affecting the spine.
An orthopedic spine surgeon provides surgical and non-surgical treatment to patients of all ages, though some can choose to specialize in pediatric orthopedics, while others can specialize in specific spinal problems, such as degenerative disorders, scoliosis, or a certain region of the spine, such as neck/cervical, or lumbar/low back.
Education Requirements for Spine Surgeons
The first step in a spine surgeon’s education journey is to earn a bachelor’s degree in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology or physics. During this time, many aspiring spine surgeons work in a healthcare setting to gain valuable experience that can help them become stronger candidates for medical school.
Once a student has taken the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and been accepted into a four-year program, they will spend the first two years studying in the classroom and laboratory. The final two years will involve clinical rotations in the orthopedic specialty.
After the student has successfully completed medical school, they must pass the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE). They must then complete a five-year orthopedic surgery residency program that focuses on the treatment and diagnosis of all musculoskeletal disorders. Upon completion, spine surgeons have the option to extend their training by taking a spine fellowship program.
How to Choose a Spine Surgeon in Orange County, CA
When searching for a spine surgeon, the first step is to make sure the spine surgeon is board certified. This simply means that the surgeon has completed a fellowship program in orthopedics that included at least one year of training focusing on spine surgery.
It’s also important to choose a spine surgeon who spends at least 50% of his practice treating spinal conditions. This will ensure that they are aware of the latest technologies and techniques available to treat spinal conditions.
Another way to find out if a spine surgeon is a good fit for you is to consider their style of communication by asking yourself the following questions:
- Does the spine surgeon answer all of your questions thoroughly and clearly?
- Does the spine surgeon spend enough time with you?
- Is the spine surgeon open to a second opinion before recommending a treatment plan?
Why Choose Orange County Orthopedic & Pain Center
The spine surgeons at the Orange County Orthopedic & Pain Center specialize in orthopedics and have dedicated their careers to helping patients recover from debilitating spinal conditions. We encourage you to choose the best spine surgeons in Orange County, CA — the team at Orange County Orthopedic & Pain Center.