Who is a Bone & Joint Surgeon?
A Bone & Joint Surgeon is a doctor who specialises in treating problems with your bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments — the parts of your body that help you move. They can treat injuries like broken bones and torn ligaments, as well as long-term conditions like arthritis and spine problems. If you have pain, swelling, or difficulty moving any part of your body, a Bone & Joint Surgeon is the right specialist to see.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Bone & Joint Surgeon
When to See a Bone & Joint Surgeon
You should consider booking an consultation if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or conditions:
- A broken or fractured bone after an injury or accident
- Severe joint pain in the knee, hip, or shoulder that does not improve with rest
- Swelling, stiffness, or difficulty moving a joint
- A joint that feels unstable, locks up, or gives way
- Persistent back or neck pain, especially with numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
- A bone deformity or limb that looks bent or out of shape
- A child with a limp, uneven legs, or a foot that turns inward
- Pain or swelling in a bone that is getting worse without a clear cause
- A sports injury that has not healed after a few weeks of rest
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs due to joint pain
Conditions & Visit Reasons
Select a specific condition to learn more or search for specialists offering directed therapy plans:
Types of Bone & Joint Surgeon Specialists
Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty)
Focuses on replacing damaged hip, knee, or shoulder joints with artificial implants to relieve pain and restore movement.
Spine Surgery
Treats conditions of the back and neck, including slipped discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis.
Sports Medicine & Trauma
Specialises in injuries from sports or accidents, such as torn ligaments, dislocations, and fractures.
Paediatric Orthopaedics
Cares for bone and joint problems in babies, children, and teenagers, including club foot and growth-related deformities.
Hand & Upper Limb Surgery
Treats conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder, including carpal tunnel syndrome and tendon injuries.
Foot & Ankle Surgery
Manages problems of the foot and ankle such as bunions, flat feet, and Achilles tendon injuries.
Orthopaedic Oncology
Diagnoses and treats bone and soft-tissue tumours, both cancerous and non-cancerous.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
At your first visit, the Bone & Joint Surgeon will ask you about your pain — when it started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily life. They will gently examine the affected area, checking your movement, strength, and any swelling or tenderness. They may request an X-ray or scan to get a clear picture of your bones and joints before recommending the best treatment for you.
Training & Education Credentials
A Bone & Joint Surgeon completes a medical degree followed by a specialist residency in orthopaedic surgery, which typically takes five to six additional years of training. In Ghana and West Africa, they are certified by the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) or the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, and many pursue further fellowship training in a subspecialty area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to see a Bone & Joint Surgeon in Ghana?
The cost of a consultation with a Bone & Joint Surgeon in Ghana varies depending on whether you visit a public hospital, a private clinic, or a specialist centre. At public hospitals, fees are generally lower and may be covered partly by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). It is a good idea to call ahead and ask about consultation fees and whether your NHIS card is accepted.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring any previous X-rays, scans, or medical reports related to your bone or joint problem. Also bring a list of any medicines you are currently taking, your NHIS card if you have one, and a trusted family member or friend who can help you remember what the doctor says. Wear comfortable, loose clothing so the doctor can easily examine the affected area.
Do I always need surgery if I see a Bone & Joint Surgeon?
No — many patients who see a Bone & Joint Surgeon do not need an operation. The surgeon will first try non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, pain medicines, bracing, or injections. Surgery is only recommended when these options have not worked or when the condition is serious enough to require it.
When should I go to the emergency room instead of booking an appointment?
Go to the emergency room immediately if you have a bone that looks broken or out of place after an accident, if you cannot move or bear weight on a limb, if there is an open wound near a bone, or if you have sudden severe back pain with loss of bladder or bowel control. These are urgent situations that need immediate care.
How long will recovery take after bone or joint surgery?
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery and your overall health. Minor procedures may allow you to return to normal activities within a few weeks, while major operations like hip or knee replacement can take three to six months of rehabilitation. Your surgeon will give you a clear recovery plan and refer you to a physiotherapist to help you regain strength and movement.
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