Approach to the orthopaedic patient

Approaching orthopaedic patients represents a common challenge for first opinion practitioners. Knowledge and understanding of the correct steps necessary to narrow down the list of differential diagnoses, and selection of appropriate diagnostic modalities, is crucial to success. The approach to orthopaedic patients should comprise obtaining a history, observing the standing patient, gait analysis, orthopaedic examination and a brief neurological examination. Orthopaedic examination can be separated into palpation and manipulation. This methodical approach allows the clinician to avoid the common mistakes of delayed diagnosis and subsequent owner dissatisfaction. This article will focus on a methodical approach to orthopaedic patients, with particular attention on the common challenges encountered by first opinion practitioners.