Orthopedics is the branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Orthopedic Care in Northern NJ

Your musculoskeletal system is the foundation of your mobility and daily function. Whether it’s a sports injury, joint pain, or a chronic orthopedic condition, expert care can help restore your movement and quality of life. At Bergen Medical Associates in northern New Jersey, our orthopedic specialist, Paul Kovatis, MD, brings decades of experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.

What Is Orthopedics?

Orthopedics is the field of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of injuries and diseases affecting the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. It addresses everything from acute trauma and fractures to chronic issues like arthritis and tendonitis.

Orthopedic conditions can affect patients of all ages and are commonly caused by overuse, sports injuries, accidents, or age-related degeneration. Common areas of orthopedic care include:

  • Knee, hip, and shoulder pain
  • Neck injuries
  • Bone fractures
  • Arthritis and joint degeneration
  • Tendon and ligament injuries
  • Sports and repetitive motion injuries

Dr. Paul Kovatis specializes in evidence-based, patient-centered orthopedic care, offering both non-surgical treatments and surgical interventions when needed. His goal is to help each patient regain strength, mobility, and independence.

What Can Orthopedic Surgeons Treat?

An orthopedic surgeon treats a wide array of musculoskeletal conditions, from injury to chronic joint disease. Some of the most common orthopedic concerns include:

Arthritis – Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that can worsen with age. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which often affect the knees, hips, and hands.

Fractures – Broken bones are often the result of trauma or falls. Treatment depends on the location and severity and may involve splints, casting, or surgery.

Rotator Cuff Tears – Common in athletes and older adults, rotator cuff tears can cause pain and limited shoulder motion. Treatment can range from physical therapy to surgical repair.

Meniscus Tears – A tear in the knee’s cartilage can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint. These injuries are common among athletes and active individuals.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – This condition causes pain, numbness, or tingling in the hand due to pressure on the median nerve. It’s often caused by repetitive hand use and may require splinting or surgery.

When Should You See an Orthopedic Specialist?

If you experience persistent joint or muscle pain, reduced range of motion, or symptoms following an injury, it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist. Other signs include:

  • Difficulty walking or standing
  • Joint stiffness, swelling, or warmth
  • Chronic neck pain
  • Clicking or grinding sensations in a joint
  • Numbness or weakness in limbs
  • Trouble performing daily activities due to joint pain

Trust the Comprehensive Care From Bergen Medical Associates

Our orthopedic surgeon, Paul Kovatis, MD, is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care in coordination with our multidisciplinary team. Whether you need conservative management or surgical treatment, Dr. Kovatis and the team at Bergen Medical Associates are here to support your recovery and long-term health.

To schedule a consultation or learn more about orthopedic services, contact Bergen Medical Associates today.