Orthopedic care involves diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. From non-surgical treatments to complex surgical interventions, there are many types of orthopedic care.

Conservative and Non-Surgical Treatments

Orthopedic care often begins with conservative, non-surgical treatments aimed at managing pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing. These treatments can be effective for many patients and may prevent the need for more invasive procedures.

Examples of conservative treatments are physical therapy, which is a customized program designed to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area; medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or muscle relaxants to manage symptoms and promote healing; and injections like corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the affected joint or soft tissue. 

Additionally, assistive devices like braces, splints, or orthotics can be used to support and protect the injured area during the healing process, while activity modification involves adjustments to daily activities or exercise routines to avoid exacerbating the condition or injury.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

When conservative treatments are insufficient or inappropriate for the patient's condition, minimally invasive procedures may be considered. These techniques involve smaller incisions, less disruption to surrounding tissues, and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery. 

One minimally invasive orthopedic procedure is arthroscopy, which is a diagnostic and treatment technique that utilizes a small camera to visualize, diagnose, and treat joint conditions. Another is endoscopic carpal tunnel release, a minimally invasive procedure to treat carpal tunnel syndrome by releasing pressure on the median nerve.

Traditional Orthopedic Surgery

In certain cases, traditional orthopedic surgery is the most suitable treatment option. These surgeries tend to be more invasive and often necessitate a longer recovery period. 

Joint replacement is one such surgery, in which a damaged joint, commonly the hip or knee, is replaced with an artificial implant. Another is spinal fusion, a procedure that joins two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain. 

Fracture repair involves realigning and stabilizing broken bones with plates, screws, or rods through surgical intervention.

Rehabilitation and Post-Operative Care

After undergoing surgery or other orthopedic treatments, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is crucial for ensuring optimal recovery and a return to normal function.

Post-operative physical therapy is a tailored program designed to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and function in the affected area. Pain management strategies, such as medications and alternative therapies, are employed to control post-operative pain.

Also, lifestyle modification recommendations focus on activity modification, weight management, and injury prevention to promote long-term musculoskeletal health.