What Is Trauma?
Trauma refers to bodily injury or damage caused by an external force or event. It can result from various incidents, including accidents, falls, collisions, or intentional acts of violence. Trauma can affect bones, tissues, organs, and other body structures, leading to a range of injuries from mild to severe.
Trauma Treated at Summit Orthopaedics
At Summit Orthopaedics, we treat several kinds of trauma, such as:
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Ligament, tendon, and muscle injuries
- Sports-related injuries
- Hand and wrist injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Ankle injuries such as ankle arthritis
- Shoulder, hip, and knee replacement
Treatment Options
The treatment of bone trauma depends on the nature and severity of the injury. Here are some general approaches to treating bone trauma:
- In cases of fractures or dislocations, a technique called closed reduction might be used. This involves manipulating the bones back into their normal position without surgery.
- After reducing the bone, the affected area is often immobilized using casts, splints, or braces. Immobilization helps in proper healing by preventing movement and providing support.
- Severe fractures or fractures that can't be treated with closed reduction may require surgical intervention. Surgery may involve the use of screws, plates, rods, or other fixation devices to stabilize the bones.
- In cases of large bone defects or non-healing fractures, bone grafts can be used. This involves taking bone from another part of the body or using synthetic materials to stimulate bone healing.
- In certain complex cases, an external fixator may be applied. This device is attached to the bones externally and helps stabilize them during the healing process.
- After the initial healing phase, physical therapy is often prescribed to restore mobility, strength, and function. Therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation help prevent stiffness and improve the range of function.
Myths and Misconceptions Regarding Trauma
There are many myths about bone trauma. If you seek more information, don't hesitate to reach out to Summit Orthopaedics to help you. Here are some common myths:
Myth: Only broken bones qualify as bone trauma. Bone trauma includes a range of injuries, such as ligament sprains, fractures, muscle strains, and joint injuries.
Myth: All fractures require surgery. Many fractures can be treated with non-surgical methods such as casting, splinting, or bracing.
Myth: Only athletes get stress fractures. Athletes are prone to stress fractures, but anyone can experience a bone fracture.
When to Go to An Orthopaedic Center
It's advisable to seek an orthopaedic surgeon if you experience a sudden or severe injury, persistent pain or discomfort in bones or joints, a decrease in your range of motion, any sports-related injuries, chronic neck or back pain, persistent joint pain, or if you have been diagnosed with a chronic orthopaedic condition.
Why Go to Summit Orthopaedics?
Summit Orthopaedics proudly serves Portland, Lake Oswego, and the nearby Oregon areas. We have six board-certified orthopaedic surgeons who specialize in foot, ankle, hand, wrist, elbow, and replacements of the hip, knee, and shoulder. We also help in recovery after a worker's compensation claim.
We pride ourselves on using innovative and breakthrough techniques. Be sure to contact us if you're in need of orthopaedic help and live in or near Portland or Lake Oswego.
If you have a concern or need a second opinion, be sure to reach out to your local Portland and Lake Oswego orthopaedic center, Summit Orthopaedics. We'd be happy to get you on the road to recovery. Call 503-850-9940 today!
