Most injuries and conditions treated by an orthopedist can be treated successfully without the need for surgery such as activity modification, physical therapy, and medications. However, surgery is an option for other orthopedic problems that cannot be alleviated through conservative measures. Typically, orthopedic surgery can take anywhere from thirty to ninety minutes. This is followed by recovery under observation before the patient is discharged by the surgeon with specific post-operative directives for better recovery.
Some of the most common orthopedic surgeries practiced are:
Arthroscopic surgery is a procedure using a high definition, fiber optic camera to perform minimally invasive surgery through small incisions. It is used in the treatment of most joint problems including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. Arthroscopy is also helpful in the initial diagnosis of joint problems because of the visualization that arthroscopy allows. This also makes it possible for your surgeon to treat many joint conditions in the least invasive manner possible. Performing the surgery through small incisions will avoid injury to the soft tissue which results in quicker and less painful recovery times. Most patients go home the same day they have surgery.
It is highly recommended that physical therapy becomes an essential part of your recovery. The benefits of physical therapy will help you to regain strength and mobility in your joints which can become weaker and stiff after orthopedic surgery. You may meet with a physical therapist ahead of the scheduled surgery to set up specific details on the recovery period, and the procedures involved to help you get back on your feet.
Feel free to email us regarding any scheduling or general questions!