Orthopedics Frequently Asked Questions

NGPG does not require a provider referral for an appointment, however, some insurance carriers require patients have a referral prior to being seen by a specialist in order for that visit to be covered. It would be in your best interest to contact your insurance using the customer service number listed on your insurance card, to determine if your insurance plan requires a referral or preauthorization from your listed primary care provider.

An appointment with an orthopedic specialist is the first step in developing the most appropriate treatment plan for your medical condition. Your provider will likely order a diagnostic test including an x-ray or MRI to determine if surgery is necessary or if another method of care such as medication and/or physical therapy can improve your condition.

Orthopedic surgery can help relieve pain, improve functionality, and correct damage from overuse or a variety of medical conditions. There are different types of Orthopedic procedures recommended for different injuries. If surgery promises the best outcome for your condition, you’ll be in the care of a team of highly trained and experienced professionals who utilize the latest technology and surgical techniques.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, connect with the team at NGPG Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine as surgery may be the recommended treatment.

• pain, stiffness, or discomfort making it difficult to perform daily activities
• chronic joint pain (pain that has lasted longer than 12 weeks)
• reduced or limited range of motion
• instability while walking or standing
• tingling, weakness or numbness in the hands, arms or legs
• swelling from an injury that hasn’t improved after a few days

If you’ve experienced an injury or suffer from chronic or acute joint pain, a visit with an orthopedic specialist is recommended. Orthopedists specialize in treating conditions of the musculoskeletal system including muscles, nerves, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other connective tissue. There are musculoskeletal injuries and conditions that can cause pain or discomfort from overuse and the orthopedic specialists at NGPG can help reduce or eliminate your pain and improve range of motion.

As part of the Northeast Georgia Health System, NGPG orthopedic surgeons perform procedures in state-of-the-art surgical settings with access to leading technologies to improve outcomes and reduce discomfort. Surgical procedures are performed at NGHS Braselton, NGHS Gainesville, and the Gainesville Surgery Center.

Same-day surgeries are performed for traumatic injuries that require immediate attention. Some Orthopedic procedures are outpatient, however more complex surgeries may require an overnight stay. Whether you receive outpatient surgery, or your procedure requires a hospital stay, your surgical team will help you prepare for what to expect from pre-op through post-op recovery. It is important to follow the instructions provided to best prepare for surgery and to ensure a safe and healthy recovery.

Minimally invasive surgery may be the recommended treatment for some musculoskeletal injuries. Orthopedic procedures are performed at Northeast Georgia Medical Center where our expert surgical team is equipped with the most advanced technology, treatments and surgical techniques. Our team works with each patient to develop a treatment plan to maximize surgical outcomes based on their unique condition. Minimally invasive surgery is recommended if it is determined to provide the best results as it causes significantly less stress to the body and patients often experience reduced pain, smaller incisions, and shorter recovery time.

If you’ve experienced an exercise or sports-related injury or persistent pain that is affecting your performance, we recommend you schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Sports medicine focuses on treating both athletes and active individuals through their recovery of an overuse injury and prevent future injuries from occurring. Sports Medicine doctors can effectively diagnose and treat these types of injuries through the use of alternative methods, potentially avoiding the need for surgery.