Treatment Plans

After a comprehensive evaluation of the disorder, the orthopedist will make recommendations for a treatment plan, based on some of the following criteria:

• your age, overall health, and medical history

  
  

• extent of the disease, injury, or condition

  
  

• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

  
  

• expectations for the course of the disease, injury, or condition

  
  

• your opinion or preference

  
  

For most orthopedic disorders and injuries, there is more than one form of treatment that may be appropriate. Thus, many treatment plans involve a combination or progression of some of the following:

• rest

  
  

• medical counseling

  
  

• medication

  
  

• immobilization

  
  

• physical therapy

  
  

• occupational therapy

  
  

• rehabilitative therapy

  
  

• exercise

  
  

• activity modifications

  
  

• casts and splints

  
  

• crutches, canes and walkers

  
  

• braces and orthotics

  
  

• procedures, such as arthroscopy

  
  

• surgery, such as joint replacement and transplants

  
  

Listed in the directory below you will find additional information regarding treatment plans for many orthopedic conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview.

Arthroscopy

Joint Replacement

Artificial Hip Replacement

Artificial Knee Replacement

Ice Packs vs. Warm Compresses For Pain

Exercise: The Right Program and the Right Preparation

Exercise and the Aging Person