If you’ve ever had an injury that involved a bone or muscle, you’ve likely had to visit orthopedic doctors. These specialists handle a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and offer many different types of treatment depending on the type of injury. It's good to know you're not alone! According to the Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, there has been a 131% increase in treatment costs for musculoskeletal disorders since 1998. Each patient, however, needs care and treatment specific to their needs. Keep reading to learn a few of the most common types of treatment.

Medication

Orthopedic doctors can prescribe prescription medication for some injuries. Good doctors often start with a very conservative treatment option when it comes to pain management. The first line of defense is often to use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and to recommend over-the-counter medications. If or when pain persists, doctors may resort to prescribing stronger medications or a different type of treatment.

Fracture Care

Another common type of treatment you may receive from an orthopedic doctor is fracture care. Bone fractures can range from a less serious problem like a hairline crack to more severe complications such as a compound fracture of a major bone. Severe fractures often require surgery. During an orthopedic surgery, a doctor sets the broken bones and removes or realigns bone fragments.

Arthritis Care

Arthritis is a painful inflammatory condition that can cause degradation of the joints. There are different types of arthritis and treatment will be based on the severity and type of the specific condition. Care can include a combination of physical therapy and medication.

Joint Fusion

For bone or joint disorders that do not respond to traditional treatments, bone fusions can be an option. This is only used in severe instances and is considered a very invasive type of treatment. During a bone or joint fusion, bones are united together to relieve the pain of movement. This type of treatment can be performed on the spine, ankles, wrists, fingers, thumbs, and feet.

Rotator Cuff Treatment

If you are feeling constant pain in your shoulder, it could be due to rotator cuff issues. Injuries to your rotator cuff don’t often get better on their own and require intervention and treatment. This can be done through medications, corticosteroid injections, and surgery. 

If you're in need of care for a broken bone or a joint problem, our orthopedic doctors are ready to help. Our team has more than 40 years of experience using state-of-the-art equipment and proven practices. Call West Philadelphia Orthopedics & Therapy today to schedule a same-day appointment!