Orthopedics in Hungary

Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that deals with the conditions involving the musculoskeletal system, including the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. A doctor who specializes in orthopedics is called an orthopedist. The musculoskeletal conditions that orthopedists can treat may be present from birth or occur as a result of injury or age-related wear and tear. Some of the most common conditions that an orthopedist can treat are as follows:

• Bone fractures
• Joint pain from arthritis
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Soft tissue, including muscles, ligament, and tendon, injuries
• Shoulder pain and problems, such as bursitis
• Worn out and sports injuries, such as meniscus tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, and tendinitis
• Congenital conditions, such as scoliosis and clubfoot.

Orthopedists can conduct diagnostic tests, including physical examinations and X-rays. They use both surgical and nonsurgical approaches to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues. The procedures performed by orthopedists include, but are not limited to:

• Total joint replacement
• Knee ligament surgery, including knee arthroscopy
• Shoulder arthroscopy
• Carpal tunnel release
• Fracture repair surgery
• Spinal fusion
• Hip replacement
• LaminectomyFracture repair surgery, including repair of the ankle, the femoral neck, and trochanteric fracture
• Bone grafting surgery
• Osteotomy
• Herniated disk surgery
• Debridement of muscle, bone, or fracture.

How Long Should I Stay in Hungary?

Depending on the condition for which you were treated and the type of treatment you underwent, you may be able to leave the hospital the same day or the day after surgery. In general, you should wait at least 4 to 7 days before you travel home for most surgeries. This is because surgery can affect your ability to tolerate turbulence. After total hip replacement, it is recommended that you take it very easy for around 3 months to minimize the risk of hip dislocation. During your stay in Hungary you will need to attend several follow-up checkups where your orthopedist will monitor your healing and remove any stitches (if necessary). 

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Several factors determine your recovery period, including your overall health, the reason you needed an orthopedic treatment, and the type of treatment you had. Your orthopedist will give you a detailed post-operative plan, including when you can go back to your normal routine and work. The recovery period takes approximately 2 weeks to 3 months.

What Aftercare is Required?

Make sure to follow your orthopedist direction after treatment. In most cases, you will need to attend rehabilitation, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy, which you can do at a facility in your home country or have home visits from a physical therapist. The goal of physical therapy is to increase your range of motion, improve function, and to regain your strength and ability. 

What's the Success Rate?

The advancement of orthopedics and a deeper understanding of the musculoskeletal system have made orthopedic treatments safer and highly successful. For example, over 95% of patients who had total hip replacement experience relief from hip pain. However, while orthopedics surgery generally does not cause major risks, you still need to be aware that complications can occur, such as infections, blood clots, blood vessel damage, bone fracture, and joint stiffness. 

Are there Alternatives?

There is typically no other alternatives than seeing an orthopedist if you experience any problems in your bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons. However, depending on your condition, you may be able to undergo acupuncture, home exercise programs, and other alternative treatments.

Orthopedics in and around Hungary

About Hungary

Positioned in the core of Central Europe and completely surrounded by land, this historically enriched nation is among the world's top 15 tourist favorites. It's a hotspot teeming with UNESCO World Heritage sites, a testament to its rich past.

The country boasts eye-catching architectural marvels and relaxing thermal baths and spas, the most talked-about amongst these being the Szechenyi baths nestled in the nation's capital, Budapest. This combination of cultural heritage and relaxation opportunities lends the country a unique charm that continually lures in visitors from around the globe.

While Hungary possesses only one facility accredited by the Joint Commission International, it leans on the trusted expertise of its local accreditation board. This board, licensed by pillars of authority such as the Hungarian Ministry of Health and the State National Health Commission and Medical Service, ensures the maintenance of high healthcare standards.

Each year sees a burgeoning number of medical tourists making the journey to Hungary. Many among them travel specifically for Orthopedics procedures. Dental and cosmetic treatments, in particular, draw significant attention due to Hungary’s competitive pricing, often regarded as the most economical across Europe.

Popular Parts of Hungary

With less than 10 million inhabitants sprinkled across an approximate area of 93,030 square kilometers, Hungary may appear relatively modest in size. However, within its boundaries, it hosts an impressive number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alongside these acclaimed landmarks, it also boasts a multitude of exquisite attractions, making it a country that belies its physical size with its magnificently rich offerings.

• Budapest is the capital of Hungary. From beautiful boulevards, extraordinary architectures, an abundance of hot springs, to sophisticated food and an electric nightlife. Budapest has everything to satisfy everyone. Castle Hill is one of the most visited places in Budapest with beautiful buildings dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
• Eger is known for its castle, historic buildings, and thermal baths and also for its red wine. There are many festivals and celebrations centered around wine and remember to enjoy the wine-tasting when visiting Eger.
• Debrecen is an important city in Hungarian Protestantism. The city has many religious sites and museums. Tourists should visit the Great Church, St. Anne Cathedral, and the Deri Museum. Debrecen also has a lot of bars and nightclubs.
• Siofok is located at the southern coast of Lake Balaton. The small town also has beautiful beaches, making it one of the most popular summer holiday destinations. The town has many entertainment options, tourists can spend a lovely day on the beach next to Lake Balaton or enjoy the food in beachside bars and restaurants.
• Szeged is known as ‘The City of Sunshine’ because it has wonderful weather. The city offers beautiful parks, cultural scenes, and amazing street side cafes. Szeged has a youthful vibe as it is a university town. In the summer, there are many festivals such as the Open Air Theater festival.

Weather and Climate in Hungary

Hungary is characterized by the presence of four clearly demarcated seasons.

• Hungarian summers, spanning from June to August, are typically warm and agreeable, with average temperatures oscillating between 23 to 28°C (73 – 82°F). However, mercury levels can sometimes soar as high as 35°C (95°F). Tourists are advised to opt for lightweight clothing during this period. This season generally sees a tourism surge in Hungary.
• Both spring and autumn showcase milder, comfortable temperatures. Spring, in particular, is a splendid time to visit Hungary as the country's parks and fields burst into vibrant, full bloom.
• Winter presents a stark contrast with severely cold conditions. Average temperatures fall within -3 to -7°C (27 to 19°F), and can plummet to lows of -10°C (14°F). While rural areas may not be very visitor-friendly during this time, the more prominent cities continue to offer an enjoyable experience despite the cold.

Getting Around in Hungary

Hungary has five large airports, but international flights usually land at Ferenc Liszt International Airport. The airport is still commonly called “Ferihegy.” It offers international connections mainly to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and North America. Several budget airlines such as Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Ryanair operate many flights from this airport. Flights to/from Schengen countries use Terminal 2A (also known as the Schengen terminal), while flights from non-Schengen countries use Terminal 2B. Another year-round international airport is Debrecen International Airport. The airport serves Wizz Air and Lufthansa along with several seasonal airlines. There aren’t many domestic flights in Hungary because traveling to one city to another usually only takes three hours by train or bus.

Visitors can get into the city from the airports by bus or taxi. If you wish to travel by taxi, make sure to use regulated taxis such as Főtaxi, the company has trained and experienced drivers to ensure passengers’ safety. The fare is 300 HUF/Km (1.03 USD). A ride to Budapest from Ferenc Liszt International Airport should cost around 7200 HUF (24.8 USD).

Buses are another easy option to get to the city center. Bus tickets are relatively cheap, single tickets are 350 HUF (1.30 USD) and can be purchased at the airport post office, BKK customer points in arrivals halls, the newsagents, and from the ticket machine at the bus stops. Drivers also sell tickets for 450 HUF (1.60 USD). It is recommended to buy daily or multi-day travel-cards and passes which are valid for an unlimited number of trips within their validity periods. The multi-day pass costs 1650 HUF (6.15 USD)

Hungary has a highly developed transport system. To travel to another city, tourists can use Intercity (IC), the fastest trains that link major cities with Budapest. Buses are a more economical way to travel inter-city. Buses are efficient. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver. Taxis are good, but make sure to always inspect the change that taxi drivers give you. Drivers commonly give tourists outdated Romanian currency that looks similar to Hungarian currency but has no value. Hiring a car is another good option if you want to travel to many destinations, most roads are two lanes and the main roads are in good shape.

Tourist Visas in Hungary

European Union, American, and Canadian passport holders can stay in Hungary without a visa for up to 90 days, as long as the passport is valid for at least three months. Citizens of EU/EEA member and 33 countries are granted visa-free entry for a maximum period of 90 days.

Hungary is also a part of the Schengen Agreement. The Schengen Visa allows the holder to travel to any member countries using one single visa. The Schengen Visa is only issued to citizens of countries who are required to obtain a visa before entering Europe. For more information:

• Visitors to Hungary must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
• It is recommended to have travel insurance, as it is not required by law but can be very helpful in case of an emergency.
• Visitors to Hungary should be aware of the country's currency, the Hungarian forint (HUF). The exchange rate for the Hungarian forint fluctuates daily, but it is currently trading at around 350 HUF to the US dollar.
• Most businesses and establishments in Hungary accept credit cards and debit cards. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases and for tipping.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Although the Hungarian government wants to use the Euro as Hungary’s currency, the official currency is still Hungarian Forint (HUF). 1 USD is equivalent to 362.80 HUF.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are easily available within the country. Hotels, shops, and restaurants accept credit cards, especially, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. Several taxis in Budapest also accept credit cards. Many hotels and guesthouses that give their rates in euros will accept payment with euros or forint. Tipping is not mandatory but will be appreciated.
3. Local Language: The official language is Hungarian. English is widely taught in schools and universities, so many young people can speak very good English. German is almost as widely spoken as English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: More than half of the population follows Christianity as it is a historically Christian country. Jewish, Buddhist, and Muslim are freely practiced and are in the minority.
5. Public Holidays: Hungary celebrates Christian holy days. The country hosts many annual festivals such as Hollókő Easter Festival, Busójárás, and Balaton Festival. Note that on national and public holidays, most businesses including shops and restaurants are closed. Public transportations also run less frequently.

With its stunning landscapes, laden with history and soaked in culture, Hungary truly is a gem to behold. Brimming with a myriad of delights to cater to diverse preferences, it offers everything from captivating landscapes and historical marvels to lively metropolises teeming with life, and a wealth of culinary delights. Indeed, Hungary ensures every visitor takes away an indelible wealth of wonderful memories.