5 ways an orthopedic doctor near you can help relieve your pain

If you’re experiencing persistent stiffness, pain or swelling in your joints, you may find it difficult to do your daily activities. Fortunately, an orthopedic doctor may be able to help. Also known as an orthopedist, this type of doctor specializes in the musculoskeletal system. They can diagnose and help treat many conditions, including fractures, sports injuries, arthritis and joint pain. Over 120 million people in the United States experience a disabling musculoskeletal condition. 

Even if surgery seems like the only solution, an orthopedic doctor may recommend trying nonsurgical options first. Treatments like physical therapy may help ease chronic pain. PT can also improve range of motion and reduce stiffness. When you schedule a consultation, your doctor can assess your joint pain and discuss treatment options with you.

Let’s explore five ways an orthopedic doctor can help relieve pain, so you can see if this option is right for you.

5 ways orthopedic doctors can help relieve pain

An orthopedic doctor can help you consider treatment options that may ease your pain. The severity of your condition, your lifestyle and your goals can affect which treatment would be most suitable for you.

Here are five ways an orthopedist may help relieve your pain:

1. Over-the-counter or prescription medication

An orthopedic doctor can prescribe medication to alleviate your chronic pain safely. Your orthopedist may recommend a pain-relieving medicine or topical cream, depending on your condition. NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling. While acetaminophen (Tylenol) does not decrease inflammation, it can block pain signals from the brain, providing relief. 

Your doctor may prescribe a topical cream if your pain is contained to a small area. This option can also be helpful if your stomach is sensitive to oral medications. If you think you need medication for your pain relief, it’s important to see a specialist to ensure that your treatment is safe and effective. 

2. Immobilization

Limiting movement can decrease the risk of further damage to the site of your pain, which can help provide relief. Depending on your condition, your orthopedist may recommend partial or complete immobilization. Common treatment methods include casts, braces, slings and splints. As these devices limit mobility, they can provide stability. Over time, this treatment may reduce inflammation. These devices are commonly used to support and protect fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, and tendon or ligament tears. If surgery is needed, immobilization can provide proper alignment as you recover.

3. Activity modification

Adjusting your daily routine can help reduce stress on your affected joints, preventing your pain from becoming worse. For instance, if you have chronic hip pain, your doctor may suggest avoiding activities that can trigger this pain, like jumping or squatting. An orthopedist may also recommend using cushions when you sit to reduce strain on your hips. Activity modification isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. When your doctor evaluates your condition, they can personalize these modifications to help decrease your pain. 

4. Injections

Depending on your musculoskeletal condition, your orthopedist may recommend giving you a corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injection. Corticosteroid injections go straight into the affected joint or tendon, and they can reduce swelling and pain quickly. Many doctors recommend these injections to help ease pain from arthritis. Your doctor may find hyaluronic acid injections to be a suitable treatment. These injections can help lubricate the joints, enhancing mobility and reducing strain. Your doctor may suggest this option if your cartilage has worn down over time.

5. Physical therapy

An orthopedic doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. Under the guidance of a physical therapist, you can perform exercises and stretches designed to help relieve your chronic pain and improve your range of motion in the affected area. Depending on the cause and severity of your joint pain, your physical therapist may also perform hands-on physical therapy techniques. For example, during joint mobilization, your physical therapist may apply gentle, massage-like movements to your joint. This technique may help reduce inflammation and pain, which can make it easier to move. No matter what your condition is, a physical therapist can tailor your treatment plan to your needs.

Find expert support for orthopedic pain relief at Performance Rehab

Whether the cause of your joint pain is from an injury, arthritis or another musculoskeletal condition, physical therapy may be able to help. The good news is that you don’t need a referral from a doctor to explore this option. 

At Performance Rehab, our team can work with you to determine the cause of your orthopedic pain and tailor a treatment plan to help you find relief. We can support you on your journey to feeling better, improving your range of motion and enhancing your quality of life.

Don’t let pain or injury slow you down any longer. Discover how our personalized performance rehab plans can help you get back to doing what you love — stronger and more confident than ever. Contact us to learn more or request an appointment today.