Non-surgical treatments
Many orthopaedic conditions have non-surgical treatment options. And to the patient’s benefit, rehabilitation times with these conservative methods are typically shorter and carry less risk than undergoing a surgical procedure.
Dr Bhimani will explore all the possible options to avoid surgery, but sometimes it becomes the only option for effectively treating and managing pain. Dr Bhimani will also consider if avoiding surgery could result in long-term impairment, pain or dysfunction.
Non-pharmacological Treatments
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Through a range of motion exercises, strengthening techniques and patient education, physical and occupational therapy can help patients with orthopaedic injuries, diseases or changes in physical conditions.
Weight reduction and physical exercise
The lifestyle changes resulting in weight loss in obese individuals and doing appropriate physical exercises plays an important role in prevention and management of knee and hip conditions.
Pharmacological Treatments
Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP)
This procedure uses the patient’s own blood chemistry to heal tendon and ligament injuries, as well as osteoarthritis.
Steroid injections
These injections of steroids are given directly into the affected joint for severe pain when use of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs does not bring much relief. Steroids are very strong anti-inflammatory drugs and if used orally cause various side effects on other body systems. Local analgesics that prevent the sensation of pain are sometimes given along with steroids in the same shot to bring relief quickly.
Medications
To manage pain throughout recovery, we often prescribe patients with anti-inflammatories, acetaminophen, muscle relaxants, topical medications and other types pain relievers. Prescription of medication is most often used in combination with other non-surgical orthopaedic treatments.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation . Caution must be taken while using NSAIDs for overdosing as they are known to cause hepatotoxicity. Patients with liver diseases must take extreme care while using them. They can cause a range of side effects, chances of which increase with the concomitant use of diuretics, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, anticoagulants or oral corticosteroids.