Orthopedic Injuries Specialist

What are common orthopedic injuries?

Orthopedic injuries affect your musculoskeletal system, including your bones, muscles, and connective tissue. Some of the most common orthopedic injuries include:

• Bone fractures
• Ligament sprains
• Tendon tears
• Muscle strains
• Dislocations 

Orthopedic injuries are often sports-related, but you don’t have to be an athlete to hurt yourself. You can sprain an ankle while walking on uneven ground or hurt your back in several ways by lifting a heavy object with incorrect form. You can also get an orthopedic injury by falling or during an automobile collision. 

What are orthopedic injury symptoms?

In many cases, orthopedic injuries are acute, and you know when it happens. You might hear a popping or cracking sound, and your injured body part swells, bruises, and becomes stiff. You might develop instability in a joint and have pain that limits your mobility. 

When should I talk to a doctor about an orthopedic injury?

Some minor injuries heal on their own with at-home care, including rest, ice, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relievers. You should make an appointment at Select Family Practice if your pain doesn’t start to go away within a few days or if your symptoms become more intense. 

Additionally, if you have a severe, acute injury, don’t delay treatment. Call the office to schedule a same-day appointment for assessment and treatment. 

The team provides thorough physical exams and may recommend X-rays or other imaging services to confirm your diagnosis or evaluate its severity. Your provider doesn’t order unnecessary tests if your condition is evident from a physical exam. 

How are orthopedic injuries treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of your orthopedic injury. For example, your provider might recommend rest and at-home care. However, in more severe case, they might provide:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Immobilization with a brace, boot, or cast
• Physical therapy 
• Manipulating dislocated joints into place

Your provider might recommend other lifestyle adjustments to help you recover and reduce your risk of future injuries. For example, losing weight and adding moderate exercise to your daily routine keep your body strong, flexible, and resilient to injury. 

You should also make sure to wear correctly fitting shoes. If you participate in sports, wear the appropriate protective gear and warm up and cool down. 

If you’ve injured yourself, call Select Family Practice, or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment.