Orthopedics deals with the musculoskeletal system and includes a wide range of treatments, from physical therapy to surgery. This system consists of your bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other parts of your body that help keep you mobile. At an orthopedic clinic, many treatments are available to help those suffering from pain or injury in the musculoskeletal system.
Here are the non-invasive treatments available at an orthopedic clinic:
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is one of the most common treatments for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
It involves physical exercises, massages, or stretches to help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility and range of motion, and reduce pain.
Physical therapists are trained and licensed to create customized treatment plans for each patient’s individual needs. They may also use the following modalities:
Heat & Cold Therapy
Heat and cold therapy can be used to reduce pain, muscle spasms, and inflammation. Heat stimulates blood flow, while cold helps decrease swelling and inflammation.
Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation is another modality that helps reduce pain and increase muscle strength. It works by sending electrical signals to the affected area, prompting the muscles to contract.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy has a range of therapeutic benefits, including:
- Improving circulation
- Increasing joint mobility
- Decreasing inflammation
Your orthopedic doctor and physical therapist will work together to develop a customized treatment plan for you.
2. Bracing & Splinting
Braces and splints are used to support weakened muscles or joints following surgery or injury. They can also help improve the alignment of the body’s posture.
The most common types of braces and splints used in orthopedics are:
Neck Brace
A neck brace helps stabilize and reduce pain in the neck. It is typically worn after a neck injury or surgery.
Knee Brace
A knee brace provides support and stability for weakened knees, such as after a knee injury or surgery.
Ankle Brace
An ankle brace is used to support the ankle and reduce pain. It can be worn to help speed up recovery from an ankle injury or surgery.
Shoulder Brace
The shoulder brace is used to provide support for weakened shoulders.
3. Orthotics
Orthotics are devices that help improve the alignment, balance, and function of the body. They can be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as:
- Flat feet – where the foot arch is lower than normal
- Hip joint pain – caused by misalignment of the hip
- High arches – where the foot arch is higher than normal
- Knee pain – caused by misalignment of the knee joint
- Bunions – a bony growth beneath the big toe
- Shin splints – a condition where the shin bone is inflamed
- Achilles tendonitis – inflammation of the Achilles tendon
- Plantar fasciitis – inflammation of the connective tissue in the foot
Orthotics come in many different shapes and sizes, as well as a variety of materials. Your orthopedic doctor will help you choose the best option for your needs.
4. Injections
Injections are another form of non-invasive treatment used in orthopedics. They can be used to reduce inflammation in a joint or muscle, or relieve pain.
The most common form of injection is cortisone injections. They contain a steroid-like substance that helps reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area. They are typically injected directly into the site of injury or inflammation.
The procedure occurs in the office under sterile conditions. Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may recommend repeating the injections every few weeks or months.
5. Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy is a non-invasive treatment used to reduce pain and inflammation. It works by sending sound waves into the affected area, which helps stimulate blood flow and healing.
Depending on your condition’s severity, your doctor may recommend ultrasound therapy sessions every few weeks or months.
6. Medications
Orthopedic medications are used to reduce pain and inflammation and increase mobility. The most common types of medication used in orthopedics include:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These are typically taken orally for the treatment of pain, swelling, and inflammation. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, and naproxen (Aleve).
Steroids
Steroid medications are used to reduce inflammation and swelling. Examples of steroids include prednisone and corticosteroid injections.
Muscle Relaxants
These are medications used to help relax tight or spastic muscles. Common muscle relaxants include baclofen and diazepam.
Orthopedic Clinic Near You In Johnson City, Kingsport, & Bristol, TN
Non-invasive treatments are often the first choice for orthopedic care. From braces and splints to medications and ultrasound therapy, there are a variety of options available, depending on your needs. Talk to your doctor about which one might be right for you. With proper care and treatment, you can get back to leading an active, healthy life.
Are you looking for a trusted orthopedic clinic near you in Tennessee? You can rely on Watauga Orthopaedics. Our trusted orthopedic doctors and healthcare providers are always excited to care for patients like you. To learn about our services, call us at (423) 282-9011. You can also use our secure online form to request a visit.
We look forward to serving you!
