Often people think of broken bones and casts when talking about orthopaedics. But orthopaedic specialists do more than set broken bones. Through EMMC's Orthopaedic Clinic, outpatients may have follow up visits to check on the healing of a broken bone, have casts changed, or perhaps have a more complex procedure related to a bone or joint concern. Patients are also seen in the orthopaedic clinic for pre-operative teaching before having a total joint replacement (TJR).
The ability to replace the human hip and knee, known in the medical community as total joint replacement, was first brought to the United States in the late 1960's. Safely replacing the worn out human hip or knee has revolutionized the field of orthopaedic surgery. Both total hip and total knee replacements are done regularly at Eastern Maine Medical Center.
Not all hip and knee conditions require replacement as the initial treatment. Arthroscopy may help to repair existing damage. And your doctor may suggest several alternative treatments to put off the decision for replacing the hip or knee as long as possible. Using a cane may help alleviate some pain and allow individuals to walk more comfortably. Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce the inflammation from the arthritis and reduce the pain.
Treatment for bone and muscle aliments may involve medical counseling, casts, splints, and therapies such as exercise, or surgery. For most orthopaedic diseases and injuries there is more than one form of treatment. Your orthopaedic specialist will discuss the treatment options with you and your primary care physician and help you select the best treatment plan to enable you to live an active and functional life.