Joint pain can significantly affect one’s quality of life. Although both are joint specialists, rheumatologists deal more with joint disorders which can be medically treated with the use of non-surgical procedures while orthopedics deal more with surgical treatments of joint-related diseases. if you have hip related problems, you do not have to worry because there are surgeries that can rectify that.

If you have been experiencing persistent joint pain accompanied by redness, swelling, warmth, or tenderness around the joints, then you need to see a joint specialist. Before booking that appointment, here are the qualities of a good joint specialist you need to keep in mind.

1. Empathy

Visiting healthcare clinics is not something most people look forward to, especially when they are in pain. Your visit can be made bearable by choosing a joint specialist who is empathic towards you or your loved ones. Empathy means that the specialist understands your situation and they can imagine what you are undergoing. It is the most effective way for someone to acknowledge your situation and give you the necessary emotional support you need as you seek medical treatment. Empathy also helps you have a sense of emotional support which makes the treatment an easier journey.

2. Bedside Manner

This refers to the manner in which the joint specialist communicates and interacts with their patients. As a patient, you are bound to share personal information with the joint specialist and thus, you need a professional who makes you feel comfortable enough. This makes the assessment, diagnosis and the entire treatment easier. Irrespective of how knowledgeable and experienced they may be you should not visit a joint specialist who is not accommodative.

3. Board Certification

For one to become and remain certified by the board, they need to meet set industry standards beyond the licensing requirements. To remain certified, they are also required to keep up with training on advancements in the field. Thus, a certified joint specialist is a doctor who makes the provision of quality healthcare as their priority.

4. Communication Skills

Medical jargon and terms can be complex and confusing to many who are not experts in the medical industry. A good joint specialist should be in a position to explain to you the underlying problem or procedures using layman terms.
A good joint specialist should also keenly listen to your questions and give you satisfactory answers.
Good communication skills ensure that you understand the treatment options and have a clear picture of the treatment and recovery journey.

5. Flexible

Medical emergencies are bound to occur from time to time. A good joint specialist should be flexible enough to work late into the night and extra hours should it be necessary. You will have peace of mind knowing that you have chosen a joint specialist who is a phone call away and available whenever you need them.

By paying attention to these qualities of a good joint specialist, you are guaranteed to be in safe hands. Take your time and research, you will definitely find the right one for you.