What is orthopaedics?
Orthopaedics is the part of the medical field that diagnoses, treats, and manages the full spectrum of diseases, conditions, and injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system. Your musculoskeletal system includes all your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, so it’s the source of many problems within the body.
With a background in orthopedics, North Star Clinic offers primary care and more specialized care for a wide variety of musculoskeletal issues, all in the same office.
What are some common orthopedic problems?
Orthopedic problems can affect virtually any part of your body, but some of the most common areas for pain and function issues are the hips, knees, shoulders, and ankles. The main types of orthopedic problems include:
Chronic disease
Chronic diseases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause considerable pain, stiffness, swelling, and range-of-motion difficulties in your joints, so they’re one of the most common reasons to seek orthopedic care.
Injury
Sports injuries, slip-and-fall accidents, and auto injuries are some of the main sources of musculoskeletal pain and function problems, including fractures, sprains, and strains. In addition, some orthopedic injuries develop over a long period of time, for example, tendonitis or shin splints.
Orthopedics also encompasses the care of spinal deformities, such as scoliosis.
When should I seek orthopedic care?
If you experience any type of injury, it’s wise to seek orthopedic care right away. While you might not think you have a serious injury, certain problems like ligament and muscle damage in the neck (whiplash) may not cause symptoms until days or even weeks later. Starting treatment early is the best way to minimize damage and avoid serious pain with all injuries.
If you have nagging pain, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving normally, you could have a chronic condition like arthritis. Prompt care is critical if pain disrupts your regular activities or if it’s worsening. With the right approach, you can prevent the condition from worsening while relieving the pain.
What does orthopedics care entail?
At North Star Clinic, orthopedic care starts with a proper diagnosis. This includes a complete physical exam, and in most cases, you’ll need diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or advanced imaging.
The clinic also provides complete orthopedic treatment for injuries and chronic conditions. Your treatment may include lifestyle changes, splinting, bracing, crutches, medication, joint injections, or other advanced care.
For compassionate orthopedic care in a welcoming setting, call North Star Clinic or request an appointment through the online scheduling feature now.
