Treatment and injury prevention
Whether you sustain an injury during your routine activities, exercising, or playing sports, an ARC Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine physician or advanced practice clinician (APC) can diagnose and develop a treatment plan for your recovery. Your visit may include x-rays or a referral for advanced imaging (MRI, CT, etc.), depending on the severity of the injury.
Sports and musculoskeletal medicine physicians and APCs are highly trained in the non-operative treatment of musculoskeletal conditions—impairments in the muscles, bones, joints, and adjacent connective tissues. Most musculoskeletal injuries don’t require surgery, but if a surgery evaluation is needed, your doctor or APC will coordinate your care with an orthopedic surgeon.
Non-surgical treatment for injuries
In most cases, injuries do not require surgery and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, ice to reduce swelling, and a cast or sling to immobilize the joint. Most patients will see a sports and musculoskeletal medicine doctor or APC for acute and overuse injuries or injection therapies. Common issues include knee, shoulder, leg, or hip injuries, pulled or sprained muscles, joint pain, fractures, or pain from osteoarthritis. If additional care is needed, you will be referred to physical and occupational therapies, or an orthopedic surgeon if surgery is a better treatment option.