What are the treatment approaches of orthopedic doctors?

Orthopedic doctors specialize in treating injuries and disorders related to the bones, muscles, and joints. Whether dealing with fractures, arthritis, or chronic back pain, their goal is to restore movement and relieve discomfort. These doctors use a range of treatments depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the problem.

Physical Therapy

One of the first treatments orthopedic doctors often recommend is physical therapy. It helps patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility after an injury or surgery. Physical therapists create custom exercises that target specific areas of the body, allowing patients to gradually recover. This method is particularly useful for those with chronic pain or sports-related injuries, as it encourages long-term healing without surgery.

 

Medications for Pain Relief

Orthopedic doctors frequently prescribe medications to help manage pain and inflammation. These can range from over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, to stronger prescription medications for more severe cases. Anti-inflammatory drugs are especially important for conditions like arthritis, where reducing inflammation can help improve joint movement. Medications are often combined with other treatments to enhance recovery.

 

Injections

For some patients, injections may be a preferred treatment approach. A shoulder pain Doctor Brooklyn Staten Island uses injections to target pain and inflammation directly. Corticosteroid injections, for example, help reduce swelling in joints affected by arthritis or injuries. In some cases, hyaluronic acid injections are used to lubricate joints, making movement easier for people with osteoarthritis. Injections are often recommended when pain persists despite other treatments.

 

Surgery as a Last Resort

When other treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may become necessary. Orthopedic doctors perform various types of surgeries, depending on the condition. Common procedures include joint replacements, like hip or knee replacements, and surgeries to repair torn ligaments or fractured bones. While surgery can be invasive, modern techniques have made it less risky, and recovery times are shorter. Surgery is typically seen as a last resort, especially for severe injuries or degenerative diseases like advanced arthritis.

 

A knee pain doctor Brooklyn Staten Island may also recommend assistive devices to aid in recovery. These include braces, splints, and canes that help support injured areas and improve mobility. By using these devices, patients can protect healing bones or joints while reducing the strain on their muscles. Braces are often part of a larger treatment plan that includes therapy and medication, making them an important tool in the healing process.