Watauga Orthopaedics recognizes that there are specific health conditions that require an emergency room visit. In those cases, we advise our patients to dial 911 immediately. However, when the issue is nonlife-threatening, it is a good idea to visit an orthopedic urgent care facility, rather than the local hospital emergency room. Here are five good
Read MoreDifferent Types of Orthopedic Immobilization Techniques
Immobilization is necessary for an orthopedic injury to heal properly. Injured bones, ligaments, tendons, and more will incur further damage if the affected areas aren’t immobilized. Keeping the area from moving also helps reduce pain. Immobilization is accomplished through different procedures that your doctor will determine, depending on the location and severity of the traumatized
Read MoreIs Physical Therapy Necessary After an Injury?
Any reputable doctor will look for conservative rehabilitation methods as the first approach to treating an injury when possible. One of the most commonly prescribed rehabilitation techniques is physical therapy (PT) – touted by physicians for its myriad benefits. Millions of patients are referred to physical therapists every year, but the patients oftentimes don’t follow
Read MoreWhat are the Different Types of Orthopedic Doctors?
Orthopedics is the medical subspecialty that focuses on the diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, the interconnected and multifaceted structure comprised of the bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves, joints, and tendons. The name is rooted in Greek terminology – coming from “ortho” or straight, and “paes” or child; however, today the medical field features doctors
Read MorePediatric Orthopedist vs. Adult Orthopedist
For the most part, the diseases that affect the musculoskeletal structure of the human body are pretty similar whether the patient is adult or a child from neonate (newborn) to adolescent. The skeletal system is anatomically the same and suffers the same kinds of ills. Orthopedic physicians and surgeons treat conditions of the arms, shoulders,
Read MoreTreating Tendonitis
Tendonitis, tendinitis, or “overuse tendinopathy,” is a medical diagnosis that describes inflamed, irritated or torn tendons. These are the hundreds of thick, rope-like ends of muscles connected to bone. Tendons are constantly in use as they move with muscles and bones during activity, and as such can more easily become irritated or injured. Tendonitis is
Read MoreWhat to expect after minimally invasive spinal surgery
Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Is Bringing Backs into the Future The traditional “open” spinal surgeries of yesteryear came with a laundry list of pitfalls – from long incisions to extensive and painful recoveries. Luckily, the advent of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) has introduced new possibilities for patients who haven’t responded to more conservative methods,
Read More5 Major Causes of Tendonitis
All work and no play is a schedule that most wouldn’t want to subscribe to; after all, a healthy work-life balance can be beneficial. However, sometimes our lifestyle choices (our occupation or favorite pastime), can be the cause of injuries that keep us out of commission. According to a 2014 report by the U.S. Bureau
Read MoreHow Proper Hydration Affects Bone Health
Everybody needs water to live. Water is among the first and most important things your body needs to function. There is simply no system, organ, or body part that does not need to be hydrated in order to function. This means that your bones need adequate hydration to stay healthy, too. It might come a
Read MoreReasons your child should see an orthopedic surgeon
Children are active. They love to run, jump, climb, and play. Being active and sometimes taking risks can lead to accidents and injuries. Most of the time, soap and water, a bandage and a kiss are exactly what your child needs to feel better. When there is more than just a bruise or a scratch,
Read More
