Orthopedic Care for Work-Related Injuries: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If you need a caring orthopedic doctor after suffering a work-related injury, call (718) 874-1204 to schedule an appointment with Metro Healthcare Partners.
Do you need an orthopedic doctor for workers’ comp? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers from the private industry reported 2.3 million injury cases in 2022 — a 4.5% increase from the previous year.
Whether you’re hoisting heavy boxes, navigating a bustling kitchen, or spending long hours at a computer desk, workplace injuries can sneak up on you like a thief in the night. It’s not just about the immediate pain or discomfort; it’s the nagging worries of long-term damage that put a downer on your day-to-day life.
Fortunately, you can find a reliable orthopedic doctor in Brooklyn, NY, at Metro Healthcare Partners. Our team covers various ailments, from carpal tunnel syndrome to severe back injuries. Keep reading as we break down the nitty-gritty details and help you make an informed decision about your health.
What Is a Workers’ Comp Orthopedic Doctor?
An orthopedic doctor is a medical specialist who tackles cases related to your bones and muscles. These professionals diagnose and treat:
- Inflammatory conditions
- Tendonitis and tendon tears
- Ligament tears or sprains
- Cartilage tears
- Bone fractures
- Joint instability
- Joint impingement
- Bursitis
- Joint dislocations
- Rotator cuff tears
- Frozen shoulder
- Meniscus tears
- Labral tears
- Hamstring Injuries
- Joint conditions that require joint replacements
- Osteonecrosis
Beyond medical expertise, having someone help you navigate your workers’ compensation insurance claims can also take a hefty load off your shoulders.
When To Seek a Diagnosis
The first step is to recognize your unique work conditions. Each job comes with its own set of potential hazards. With this in mind, you should remain vigilant about any changes in your physical condition, such as:
- Persistent discomfort: Do you feel relentless pain or numbness? Don’t let it become your new normal.
- Restricted mobility: If you find yourself struggling to lift, bend, reach, or even sit comfortably, seek help.
- Inflammation: Visible warning signs like swelling or redness can stem from an underlying injury. These symptoms often show up with a sensation of heat and tenderness in the affected area.
- Persistent symptoms: When your issue persists even after a long rest, it’s crucial to consult a professional.
Some injuries are obvious, like lacerations or broken bones. However, many manifest in more subtle ways, so it always helps to stay tuned in to your body’s signals. Err on the side of caution when you notice something abnormal and contact an orthopedic doctor for workers’ compensation.
Treating Your Work-Related Injury or Illness
Orthopedic injuries come in all shapes and sizes, as do their solutions. According to the National Safety Council, overexertion, slips, and trips and falls account for 75% of all nonfatal work-related injuries in the U.S.
Prescriptions
The right medicines can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, or address specific conditions. From nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to corticosteroids, these medicines alleviate discomfort from overexertion, fractures, or chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. Muscle relaxants help tame muscle spasms, while biologics target underlying issues in autoimmune disorders.
Discectomy
In a discectomy, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of a disc in your spine to relieve pressure on nearby nerves. Following surgery, you’ll undergo rehabilitation to regain strength and flexibility.
This procedure is a game-changer for those suffering from herniated discs, a prevalent condition in employees who do a lot of heavy lifting or sit at a desk for extended periods.
Joint Fusion
Severe work-related orthopedic injuries that don’t respond to other conservative interventions may require joint fusion or arthrodesis. This surgical procedure joins the bones of the affected joint permanently to reduce pain and improve stability.
Doctors typically perform it on the following body parts:
- Ankles
- Spine
- Wrists
- Fingers
- Feet
Joint fusion comes at the cost of flexibility. That’s why you must consult a specialist and weigh the pros and cons based on your lifestyle.
Fracture Care
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 74,610 occupational fractures in 2020 alone. From hairline cracks to broken bones, they entail a two-pronged approach: immobilization and rehabilitation.
Immobilization uses casts, splints, or sometimes surgery to stabilize the damage and promote healing. Once the bone mends, physical therapy helps restore strength and mobility, getting you back on your feet and ready to resume normal activities, one step at a time.
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis Treatment
Do you feel a nagging pain in your shoulder whenever you reach for something or even when you’re just resting? You might be dealing with rotator cuff tendinitis, a common affliction for workers who spend a lot of time doing overhead activities.
Medical care typically involves:
- Physical therapy: Your doctor will recommend specific exercises to gradually restore your shoulder’s flexibility and strength. These regimens can significantly improve your range of motion over time.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, prescription pain relievers, or steroid injections may help ease discomfort.
- Surgery: Some cases require procedures to remove loose fragments from around the shoulder or make more room for the tendons.
Your Recovery Starts Now
Your workers’ compensation case can feel like a maze of medical language and legal jargon. That’s where Metro Healthcare Partners steps in.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection).
Call us at (718) 874-1204 and partner with an orthopedic doctor for workers’ comp. Same-day appointments may be available.
Reap the benefits of workers’ comp physical therapy today.
FAQs
What Should You Do When You Sustain a Workplace Injury?
If you become injured or ill at work, ask your employer for first aid when appropriate and seek medical treatment if required. Your employer must also provide you with their insurer’s details.
What Is the First Aid for Orthopedic Injuries?
First aid for orthopedic injuries typically involves the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. The immediate goal is to minimize swelling and alleviate pain.
How Do You Treat Workplace Orthopedic Injuries?
Conservative treatments for orthopedic injuries include rest, medication, and physical therapy. Certain situations may call for surgical intervention, so it’s crucial to consult an orthopedic doctor for workers comp as soon as possible.