Question 1

Do I need to be referred to see Dr Foster and Dr Wessels?

Accepted Answer

It is advisable that patients see a general practitioner for an initial assessment prior to seeing Dr Foster and Dr Wessels. Some medical aids request that a patient must be referred to Dr Foster and Dr Wessels from a general practitioner. However, If a patient suspects the issue is orthopaedic in nature, they are most welcome to make a direct appointment.

Question 2

What is Agile Ortho's billing policy?

Accepted Answer

Dr Foster and Dr Wessels have payment arrangements with many medical aids. This allows affordable health care to our patients. For the medical aids in which Dr Foster and Dr Wessels don't have a payment arrangement, Dr Foster and Dr Wessels charge out of medical aid rates, which we call private rates. Dr Foster and Dr Wessels are always willing to accommodate patients based on their personal circumstances and offers reductions or discounts if required.

Question 3

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Patients can make an appointment by simply calling our practice on our landline or mobile phone, whereby our friendly practice manager will make an appointment. Patients can also email us or simply click the consultation tab on our website and we will call back to facilitate an appointment at a suitable date or time.

Question 4

What is revision surgery?

Accepted Answer

If patients have had joint replacement surgery for arthritis, the prosthetic devices used has a lifespan. Modern joint replacement prosthesis usually last about fifteen to twenty years, on average. If the prosthesis has worn out, patients may require a revision surgery to replace the worn-out prosthesis with a brand new one. Revision surgery is not exclusive to joint replacement surgery. Revision surgery may be required in certain scenarios where a ligament reconstruction was performed and has re-torn, or a previous cartilage occurred and may need to fixed again.

Question 5

What are the advantages of arthroscopic knee surgery?

Accepted Answer

Arthroscopy of the knee uses small incisions around the knee to gain access to the knee. This allows any pathology inside the knee to be diagnosed, visualised and fixed at the time of surgery. By using arthroscopic knee instruments, this prevents having to do a large skin incision over the knee. This results in decreased blood loss, less pain, less infection and a shorter hospital stay.

Question 6

Can I see Dr Foster and Dr Wessels for a second opinion?

Accepted Answer

All patients should be well informed of their diagnosis and treatment plan. If patients have seen other doctors and are uncertain of their condition and would like a second opinion, Dr Foster and Dr Wessels are more than happy to provide further information on the condition and the treatment plan. Dr Foster and Dr Wessels prioritises patient education so that the patient can make an informed decision regarding their treatment plan, therefore, if there is any uncertainty, Dr Foster and Dr Wessels always advises a second opinion.

Question 7

Which hospitals do Dr Foster and Dr Wessels work at?

Accepted Answer

Dr Foster and Dr Wessels works primarily from Netcare St Augustine’s Hospital and Ribumed day facility. If certain medical aids are not covered by this hospital, Dr Foster and Dr Wessels can make arrangements to do the procedure at a different facility.

Question 8

How to Choose the Right Orthopaedic Surgeon Near Me

Accepted Answer

When looking for the right orthopaedic specialist, consider:

● Experience and areas of specialisation
● Treatment philosophy (conservative vs surgical approach)
● Hospital affiliations in Durban
● Patient reviews and outcomes
● Clear communication and personalised care

Choosing the right specialist plays a crucial role in recovery and long-term mobility.

Question 9

Orthopaedic Surgeon in Durban: When to See a Specialist and How to Choose the Right One

Accepted Answer

If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, sports injuries, back problems, or mobility issues,
consulting an orthopaedic surgeon in Durban can help diagnose and treat the condition before it
worsens. Orthopaedic specialists focus on the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints,
ligaments, tendons, and muscles, helping patients restore movement and reduce pain.
Whether you’re searching for an orthopaedic specialist near me or an orthopaedic doctor in
Durban, understanding when to seek care and what to expect can make the process easier and
more effective.

Question 10

What Does an Orthopaedic Surgeon Do?

Accepted Answer

An orthopaedic surgeon specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect
the musculoskeletal system. Treatment plans may include non-surgical care such as
physiotherapy and medication, or surgical intervention where necessary.

Common conditions treated by an orthopaedic surgeon include:

● Sports injuries (ACL tears, rotator cuff injuries)
● Knee, hip, and shoulder pain
● Back and neck pain
● Fractures and trauma injuries
● Arthritis and joint degeneration
● Tendon and ligament injuries

If pain is impacting your daily life, mobility, or performance, it may be time to consult an
orthopaedic specialist.

Question 11

When Should You See an Orthopaedic Specialist Near Me?

Accepted Answer

You should consider seeing an orthopaedic specialist near you if you experience:

● Ongoing joint or muscle pain lasting more than a few weeks
● Limited movement or stiffness
● Pain after a sports or work-related injury
● Swelling, weakness, or instability in a joint
● Pain that does not improve with rest or medication

Early assessment by an orthopaedic doctor in Durban can prevent minor issues from
developing into long-term conditions.

Question 12

Why Choose an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Durban?

Accepted Answer

Durban is home to experienced orthopaedic specialists who treat a wide range of conditions
using modern diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatment approaches. Choosing a local
orthopaedic surgeon in Durban means:

● Easier access to consultations and follow-ups
● Faster diagnosis and treatment
● Local hospital and rehabilitation partnerships
● Care tailored to your lifestyle, sport, or occupation

Searching for an “orthopaedic doctor Durban” ensures you find a specialist familiar with the
needs of patients in the region.

Question 13

Orthopaedic Doctor Durban vs General Practitioner: What’s the Difference?

Accepted Answer

While a general practitioner can assess pain and injuries, an orthopaedic doctor has specialised
training in musculoskeletal conditions. Orthopaedic specialists offer:

● Advanced imaging interpretation (X-rays, MRI, CT scans)
● Specialist treatment plans
● Surgical expertise when required
● Long-term injury management and recovery support

For complex or ongoing issues, seeing an orthopaedic surgeon near you is often the most
effective option.

Question 14

Book a Consultation with an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Durban

Accepted Answer

If you’re searching for a trusted orthopaedic surgeon in Durban, early diagnosis and expert care
can make a significant difference to your recovery. Whether you’re dealing with pain, injury, or
reduced mobility, consulting an experienced orthopaedic specialist near you ensures you
receive the right treatment at the right time.

Book a consultation today and take the first step towards improved movement, reduced pain,
and better quality of life.

Question 15

Knee, Shoulder & Sports Injury Specialist in Durban: Expert Orthopaedic Care for Active Lifestyles

Accepted Answer

Joint pain and sports-related injuries can significantly impact your daily life, mobility, and
performance. Whether you’re dealing with chronic knee pain, persistent shoulder discomfort, or
an acute sports injury, consulting a specialist in Durban ensures accurate diagnosis and
effective treatment.

If you’re searching for a knee specialist in Durban, a shoulder pain specialist Durban, or a sports
injury specialist Durban, understanding your options can help you return to movement safely
and confidently.

Question 16

Knee Specialist Durban: When Knee Pain Needs Expert Care

Accepted Answer

Knee pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek orthopaedic treatment. A knee
specialist in Durban focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the knee joint, using
both non-surgical and surgical approaches where necessary.

Common knee conditions treated include:

● ACL and meniscus injuries
● Cartilage damage
● Knee arthritis
● Patellar (kneecap) instability
● Sports-related knee injuries

If knee pain limits walking, running, or exercise, or persists despite rest, consulting a knee
specialist early can prevent long-term joint damage.

Question 17

Shoulder Pain Specialist Durban: Identifying the Root Cause

Accepted Answer

Shoulder pain can stem from injury, overuse, or degenerative conditions. A shoulder pain
specialist in Durban is trained to identify the underlying cause and tailor treatment accordingly.

Shoulder conditions commonly treated include:

● Rotator cuff tears
● Shoulder impingement
● Frozen shoulder
● Tendonitis and bursitis
● Dislocations and instability

If you experience pain when lifting your arm, weakness, stiffness, or night pain, a specialist
assessment is recommended to restore strength and mobility.

Question 18

Sports Injury Specialist Durban: Treatment for Active Individuals

Accepted Answer

Sports injuries require a specialist approach that focuses on both recovery and safe return to
activity. A sports injury specialist in Durban treats injuries sustained during training, competition,
or recreational activity, with an emphasis on performance and injury prevention.

Sports injuries commonly treated include:

● Ligament and tendon injuries
● Muscle tears
● Overuse injuries
● Joint instability
● Running and impact-related injuries

This specialist approach aligns well with active individuals and athletes who need treatment
plans designed around movement, rehabilitation, and long-term joint health.

Question 19

Why See a Specialist Rather Than Delay Treatment?

Accepted Answer

Delaying treatment for knee, shoulder, or sports injuries can lead to:

● Worsening pain and reduced mobility
● Long-term joint degeneration
● Increased risk of surgery
● Prolonged recovery times

Early diagnosis by a knee, shoulder, or sports injury specialist in Durban allows for conservative
treatment options and faster recovery where possible.

Question 20

Choosing the Right Orthopaedic Specialist in Durban

Accepted Answer

When choosing a specialist, look for:

● Experience in treating sports and joint-related injuries
● A conservative-first treatment approach
● Clear rehabilitation and recovery planning
● Access to modern diagnostic tools
● Strong patient outcomes

Finding the right specialist near you plays a key role in achieving long-term pain relief and
restored function.

Question 21

Book a Consultation with a Durban Orthopaedic Specialist

Accepted Answer

If you’re searching for a trusted knee specialist Durban, shoulder pain specialist Durban, or
sports injury specialist Durban, expert orthopaedic care can help you move with confidence
again.

Book a consultation today to receive a personalised treatment plan focused on recovery,
performance, and long-term joint health.

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