Orthopedics Specialist

What is orthopedics?

Orthopedics care includes the evaluation, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries or diseases involving your muscles, bones, joints, tendons, or ligaments — the musculoskeletal system. 

Doctors United orthopedics providers can diagnose an injury or disease and treat it to enhance healing and reduce discomfort. The practice offers virtual telehealth orthopedics services for added convenience.

Why would I choose orthopedics care?

You may need orthopedics care if you struggle with one of the following conditions:

• Fractures
• Muscle, ligament, or tendon damage
• Tendinitis
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Neck, back, or spine pain
• Whiplash injuries
• Bursitis
• Arthritis joint damage
• Sprains and strains
• Shoulder or elbow pain
• Hand and wrist pain
• Foot and ankle pain
• Hip and knee pain
• Other musculoskeletal injuries

Some of these problems heal on their own without medical intervention, but other times treatment with an orthopedic specialist is the best way to make a full recovery.

Doctors United providers are highly trained in identifying and treating sports injuries and work-related injuries and work with workers’ compensation patients. 

What are the symptoms of musculoskeletal problems?

Signs and symptoms of a musculoskeletal problem include:

• Severe or ongoing pain
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Visible tissue deformities
• Decreased range of motion 
• Reduced mobility

When in doubt about whether an injury or disease needs treatment, contact the Doctors United office and speak with a friendly staff member.

How does my doctor diagnose orthopedic problems?

To find out if you have a muscle, bone, or joint problem that needs treatment, your Doctors United specialist checks your vital signs and reviews your medical history. They complete a physical exam, paying close attention to painful or injured areas of your body. 

Your doctor may suggest you complete blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or other imaging procedures to diagnose your condition and personalize a treatment plan.

What are the common orthopedics treatments?

Depending on the type and severity of the condition you have, experts at Doctors United may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Home remedies

Things you can do at home to reduce musculoskeletal pain or speed up healing include using ice or heat packs, taking over-the-counter medications, resting affected muscles or joints, and wearing a brace while an injury heals.

Medications

Taking medications can reduce inflammation and pain associated with an injury. Medicines can help prevent arthritis or other autoimmune diseases from worsening.

Injections

Injections reduce pain and inflammation or better lubricate swollen, painful joints.

Bracing and casting

If you have a fracture, your doctor could place a brace, sling, or cast on the injured area to restrict its movement and maximize healing.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy stretches and exercises help stimulate healing, strengthen affected tissues, and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Surgery

If you have a severe injury or joint deterioration, your Doctors United orthopedics specialist may suggest you undergo orthopedic surgery to remove, repair, reconstruct, or replace tissues and fully restore their structure and function.

To learn more about orthopedics care at Doctors United and find out if it’s right for you, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.