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Your Continued Care

August 24, 2010

Now that you have consulted with your Physician, your continued care may include any of the following as part of your treatment plan.


DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Diagnostic tests are essential to helping your doctor diagnose and treat your condition or injury. Here you will find information on common diagnostic tests and how to prepare for them. Some common diagnostic tests are:

  • CT Scan – Non-invasive digital processing used to generate a 3-D image of the inside of an object.
  • MRI – Non-invasive medical imaging technique visualizing internal structure and limited function of the body.
  • X-Rays – Identify bone structures and allow detection of pathology of the skeletal system.
  • EMG – Technique for evaluating physiologic properties of muscles.
  • Make an appointment with our office as soon as your diagnostic appointment has been scheduled. This will allow us to follow-up with you on the results without delay. Make sure you bring any films, discs or results for tests previously performed. Note that your Physician will discuss all testing results during your office visit.


    FOLLOW UP
    Your Physician may schedule you for a follow up appointment to track the progress of your injury. 


    NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS

    Physical Therapy
    Physical therapy can be a very successful non-surgical treatment for many conditions. It will often be prescribed by your doctor before and/or after surgery. The goal of physical therapy is to speed your recovery, improve your function and range of motion, and strengthen your muscles. Click here to learn more.

    Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)
    NSAIDS are drugs that relieve pain, fever, and inflammation without using steroids. Steroids can have similar effects, but also more side effects. NSAIDS include over the counter drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen. These drugs are often very effective in reducing pain and swelling caused by inflammation or injury. Ask your doctor before taking NSAIDS if you are concerned about drug interactions, such as with blood thinners like Coumadin.

    Injections Corticosteroid Injections
    Corticosteroid injections are also used to treat pain and swelling caused by inflammation. They are typically injected at the site of inflammation such as a joint, bursa, or tendon. These injections have the potential to significantly reduce pain and even cure some conditions.


    PHYSICIAN REFERRAL
    Your doctor may refer you to another Physician within or outside of our practice in order to ensure that you are receiving the best care for your specific injury/condition.


    SURGERY
    Your physician may advise you that surgery is the best treatment option for you. Click here to learn more.