The Orthopedic Blog

Best Reviewed Fountain Valley Orthopedic Surgeons

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Orthopedic treatment is a highly specialized medical field. In order to receive the best care, it is important to find a highly qualified expert. Finding the best reviewed Fountain Valley orthopedic surgeons does not have to be a stressful process.

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There are many things you can do to ensure your chosen physician is right for you and your treatment. The guide below can help you through the process of finding the best orthopedic surgeon.

Location

One of the most important aspects of patient satisfaction is the location of their doctor’s medical office. Offices inconvenient to your lifestyle or are difficult to reach can make treatment difficult. Look for a medical office that you can easily get to or that is convenient for your lifestyle. Be sure to consider issues such as traffic and parking availability if those items are important to you.

Accessibility

The best Fountain Valley orthopedic surgeons will have availability that meets your needs. Doctors with extremely limited office hours can be difficult to see which can delay your treatment and prolong your suffering. Look for surgeons who are able to see you within a day or two of the injury. Receiving prompt treatment is one of the best ways to improve your chance for recovery.

Referrals

It can be difficult to assess a doctor’s bedside manner and communication methods during an initial appointment. One way is through former patient referrals. Ask your friends and family about orthopedic surgeons that they’ve dealt with. Be sure to ask questions about the most important issues to you – whether it be communication or the office setting. Online review sites can also provide a wealth of information about a doctor’s interactions with patients.

Education and Experience

Orthopedics is a specialized field, with practitioners becoming more talented and accomplished as their practice progresses. Look for an orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience and education in the field of orthopedics. Selecting a veteran in the field can help to ensure you receive the best care.

Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Fountain Valley

The best reviewed Fountain Valley orthopedic surgeon is Dr. Howard Marans of OCOrthopedic+. The Doctor has practiced as an orthopedic surgeon in the same convenient Fountain Valley location for more than two decades. Dr. Marans takes time to understand each patient’s needs before beginning treatment. His mission is to treat all patients in a professional, timely manner.

Optimal outcomes depend on accurate diagnosis, a complete explanation of treatment options, and a precise execution of the chosen treatment – non-surgical or surgical.

To schedule an appointment with the best reviewed Fountain Valley orthopedic surgeon, click the icon below and enter your information – or – call 714.979.8981

What are the Best Orthopedic Treatment Options for Knee Surgeries?

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Knee pain can be a life altering condition. Simple tasks such as walking, sitting for extended periods of time, or standing continually can cause tremendous knee pain. Knee pain relief is possible with the right diagnosis and treatment. The best orthopedic treatments for knee pain are those distinctly tailored to the exact needs of each patient.knee

A highly qualified orthopedic specialist is able to prescribe the best orthopedic treatment to address each individual patient’s needs. Understanding treatment options can help patients become fully informed about their treatment and outlook.

Best Orthopedic Treatments for Knee Pain

There are a number of orthopedic treatment options to address different concerns. Although knee pain is localized to a specific area, there are a variety of causes which require different treatment options.

Physical Therapy

At times, knee pain is the result of misuse and can be remedied with physical therapy. The goal of physical therapy is to build strength and to increase flexibility. Further, physical therapy may be used to help avoid reinjuring the knee in the future.

Medication

Inflammation is often the cause of knee pain. Addressing the inflammation through the use of medication can help to provide relief. Additionally, pain medication may be used either to address pain, or as a supplement to other therapeutic treatments methods.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacements are generally used for knees with significant damage. During this procedure, the damaged portions of the knee are replaced with man-made parts that perform the same functions. Knee replacements are often used for knees that have been badly damaged by medical issues such as arthritis.

ACL Reconstruction Surgery

The ACL is one of the main ligaments in the knee connecting the tibia to the femur. The ACL can become torn or damaged from a variety of activities. When this happens, it is possible to reconstruct the ACL during surgery. An orthopedic expert will be able to determine if this treatment option is viable given the exact cause of your knee pain.

Knee Surgery Treatment Option

It is difficult to understand which treatment option is best for your needs without a professional opinion. It is important to work with a fully qualified arthroscopic surgeon to know the best treatment options for your specific needs. Be sure to be open with your physician about all of your desires for treatment in order to fully understand your treatment options.

To schedule an appointment for the best orthopedic treatment options for your knee pain, contact the office of Dr. Howard Marans today. Please click below to schedule your consultation – or – call 714.979.8981.

 

Is Arm Fracture Surgery Covered By Insurance?

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Arm fractures occur when one of the three bones in the arm become cracked or broken. Arm fractures can occur due to overuse, injury, or illness. Treatment for an arm fracture is typically covered by medical insurance.arm-pain-ca

Causes of an Arm Fracture

Upper Arm Fractures
The bone located between the shoulder and elbow is known as the humerus.

The humerus is commonly fractured by:

  • Injury such as being in a car accident
  • Muscle contractions impacting the bone
  • Generally seen in sports injuries
  • Illness weakening the bones

Forearm Fractures
The forearm is the section of the arm between the elbow and wrist. There are two bones in this section the radius and the ulna. Arm fractures can occur in either one or both of these bones. Generally, injuries to this area are seen due to falling and attempting to break the fall with the arm. It is commonly seen in children and teenagers in sports such as skating and skateboarding. In older individuals, injuries in the forearm are likely the result of bones that were weakened from illness.
Symptoms of Fractured Arms
Symptoms caused by arm fractures include:

  • Having swelling or tenderness in the area around the fracture
  • Arm pain
  • Having bruising on the arms
  • Difficulty moving the arm or reduced flexibility
  • Having a deformed appearance in the arm
  • Feeling numbness in the arm

Diagnosing Arm Fractures
Diagnosing arm fractures begins with a physical exam by a physician. He or she will ask you questions about what happened to the arm, what kinds of symptoms you’re experiencing and how long you’ve had symptoms. They’ll ask if you’ve had other injuries or problems with the arms prior to the most current incident. In order to understand how the arm looks and feels different than normal, they’ll likely compare the injured arm to your healthy arm. They may check for a pulse to verify circulation or touch the injured area to feel for damage. Then, the doctor will order an x-ray to view the bones of the arm. The x-rays will confirm if there is a fracture as well as the severity of the fracture.
Treatments for Arm Fractures and Arm Fracture Surgery
There are a number of ways to treat a fractured arm. The exact method of treatment largely depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture. Sometimes arm fractures only need to be placed in a split or brace in order to give the body time to heal. In severe cases, surgery may be required to help repair the bone and other tissues that may have been injured due to the fracture. Treatment, including arm fracture surgery, is covered by medical insurance.
Orthopedic Arm Specialist
Receive additional information on arm fracture surgery by speaking with the orthopedic expert, Dr. Howard Marans. Please click below to schedule your consultation – or – call 714.979.8981.

Shoulder Impingement Surgery vs. Physical Therapy

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One of the most common reasons people seek the help of an orthopedic specialist is shoulder pain. The shoulder is one of the most complex parts of the body. It allows for a large range of motion by the arm. Because of the number of muscles, tendons, and bones in the shoulder, it is not uncommon for the shoulder to become injured or damaged.shoulder-surgery-ca
 

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

This is a common condition causing pain to the shoulder. When this condition occurs, there are two primary options for treatment:

  • Shoulder impingement surgery
  • Physical therapy

Understanding shoulder impingement syndrome and these two treatment methods can help you have fully informed conversations with your orthopedic specialist.

Shoulder Impingement Surgery and Physical Therapy

The human shoulder is made up of three bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The clavicle, scapula, and humerus all meet in the shoulder joint. The spaces between these bones are the joints.

Muscles and tendons used for stabilization are found in the shoulder. All of these combine to provide the strength, flexibility, and range of motion humans have with their arms. The tremendous range of motion the shoulder has – along with the frequency of its use – makes the shoulder one of the most commonly injured body parts.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons meeting at the top of the humerus. Together, these muscles and tendons keep the shoulder in place. Because of the amount of stress the rotator cuff can experience due to frequent and repetitive us, this area is particularly susceptible to injury. This is especially true for certain athletes like pitchers and swimmers. Athletes are at increased risk of orthopedic problems due to the nature of their active lifestyle.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when rotator cuff tendons become pinched between the bones in the shoulder. As the pinching continues, the impacted tendons become inflamed and damaged. This results in pain. The pain experienced due to impingement syndrome becomes gradually worse as the condition progresses. The pain will often become worse if the arm is brought above the head. Individuals who throw, swing rackets ,and swim will often find these movements particularly difficult. As the tendons swell, they are further pinched by the bones and other muscles in the shoulder.

Symptoms of impingement syndrome include:orthopedic

  • Pain in the shoulder becomes gradually worse
  • Pain is sharp and sporadic at its onset
  • Pain when making even slight or simple movements
  • Increased pain when making overhead motions
  • Little to no pain when lower, waist level movements are made
  • Pain worsening in the evening or during sleep

One of the trademarks of shoulder impingement syndrome is that there often is no injury directly associated with the condition. More often than not, impingement syndrome is the result of overuse. In other instances, a minor injury failed to heal correctly and resulted in a condition that continued to worsen over time.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose impingement syndrome, the doctor will begin by understanding your medical history and your symptoms. There will be a physical exam where the doctor will check to see if certain areas of your arm and shoulder are tender. The physical exam also allows your doctor to feel the structures of the shoulder in order to identify any issues. Beyond this, the doctor will have you move your shoulder so as to gauge your range of motion and your level of pain as you move the shoulder. The physical exam helps the doctor to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms and to provide a proper diagnosis.

The diagnostic phase of treatment continues with imaging. Imaging such as x-rays , ultrasounds, and MRIs provide a view of the soft tissues and bones of the shoulder. Additionally, images can help the doctor to determine if there is swelling or inflammation in the shoulder. Once the images are received, the doctor can make a fully informed diagnosis and create a treatment plan.

Physical Therapy

sports-medicine-orange-countyThe first line of treatment for shoulder impingement syndrome is generally non-surgical. Although a non-surgical approach can take several weeks to be effective, it can be done at a lower out of pocket cost and a decreased recovery time. Treatment options often include a mixture of rest, medications, and physical therapy.

The goal of physical therapy is to return the shoulder to the level of function existing before the injury. This includes both the strength of the shoulder and the range of motion a person had. One of the most common activities during physical therapy is stretching. Stretching improves the range of motion a person has in their shoulder. Additionally, stretching exercises can help to relieve pain, making it easier to perform everyday tasks and to continue with further therapy. Once the pain is manageable, the physical therapy moves on to building strength in the shoulder.

Doctors will typically only recommend shoulder impingement surgery after physical therapy is not successful.

Shoulder Impingement Surgery

A surgical treatment option can address cases where physical therapy and other less invasive treatments have been unsuccessful. During the surgery, the goal is to increase the amount of space the rotator cuff has in order to stop and prevent impingement. The procedure may include removing parts of the shoulder in order to provide that room.

There are two types of shoulder impingement surgery available:

Arthroscopic Surgery – During arthroscopic surgery, small incisions are made so that doctors can access the area in question. Surgical instruments and a camera are then passed through these small openings. The camera provides video that the doctors use to guide the instruments to the impacted area of the shoulder. Using the instruments, bone and soft tissue can be removed from the shoulder as needed. Additionally, sutures can be placed using the arthroscopic arms. An arthroscopic approach allows doctors to treat the issue without damaging as much of the surrounding tissue. Generally, only a few sutures are needed on each of the small incisions in order to effectively close them.

Open Surgery – In open surgery, a large incision is made so that the doctor can fully access the shoulder. The doctor is then able to surgically address the rotator cuff and the surrounding areas for treatment. Treatment can include surgically removing the impacted tissues and bones in order to fully restore strength and range in motion. Once the procedure is done, the larger incision is closed using sutures. Recovery is necessary both for the shoulder and the surrounding areas that were disturbed by the surgery.

Recovery time can vary between individuals. Generally speaking, arthroscopic surgeries have shorter recovery time than open surgery. Once surgery is complete, patients much proceed to rehab. Rehab allows patients to begin to use their arm again in a controlled manner. It can take between several months to a year for patients to completely be free of the pain associated with impingement syndrome and to regain full use of their arm and shoulder.

Leading Shoulder Impingement Surgery Specialist

For over two decades, Dr. Howard Marans has provided world class orthopedic care for treating shoulder impingement. Please click below and enter your information – or – call 714.979.8981 to schedule your consultation.

Top Treatment Options For a Torn Rotator Cuff

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Every year, more roughly 2 million people in the United States experience an issue with their rotator cuff – the shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of tendons crucial for strength and movement in the shoulder. There are a number of treatment options for healing a torn rotator cuff. The right approach depends on a number of factors unique to each patient’s needs.shoulder-surgery-ca

Torn Rotator Cuff

Some rotator cuff tears do not require surgical treatment. However, continuing to use a shoulder without intervention despite having pain can increase damage. To avoid more damage to the shoulder, it is important to seen by an orthopedic specialist and get treated as soon as possible. The goal of non-surgical treatment is to decrease the amount of pain felt and to restore full function in the shoulder.

Non-surgical treatment options for torn rotator cuff include:

  • Rest – Sometimes all your body needs is time and rest to heal itself. Rest may be prescribed with or without the use of a sling to keep your shoulder still. Additionally, you may be advised to modify your activities to avoid movements causing pain.
  • Medication – Medication can be prescribed in order to reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as reduce pain.
  • Injections – Injections of steroids can help to reduce swelling and inflammation. Injections of pain medication can directly reduce pain in the area.
  • Exercising and Physical Therapy – Therapy and exercise can help to improve strength and to return flexibility to the affected shoulder. Additionally, increasing strength can help to avoid further injuries.

Surgical Treatment Options for Torn Rotator Cuff

Surgery is a common treatment option for a torn rotator cuff. This course of action is typically recommended if less invasive treatment options are unsuccessful.

Other reasons why surgery may be the chosen treatment method include:

  • Having pain or symptoms of a torn rotator cuff or longer than six months
  • Having a large tear unlikely to heal correctly without surgical intervention
  • The loss of function and mobility in the shoulder
  • Recent injury requiring an immediate response

When surgery is used, there are different approaches that may be used in different circumstances.

Open Incision

This treatment option uses the traditional approach to surgery and accesses the injured are via a large incision. This approach may be used in the tear is large or if other surgical interventions are needed for other areas in the shoulder.

Arthroscopic Surgery

Rather than one large incision, through arthroscopic surgery, multiple smaller incisions are made. Through these access points, skilled orthopedic experts are able to insert cameras and robotic surgical tools. The surgeon then moves the robotic tools from outside of the body. This procedure allows for smaller movements to be made and avoids a large incision. Additionally, because less of the body is disturbed, arthroscopic surgical techniques heal faster and result in less pain.

Mini Open Incision

The mini open surgical approach combines an open incision with arthroscopic techniques. This technique may be used in order to address multiple surgical issues while maintaining the accuracy provided with arthroscopic surgery.

Preeminent Torn Rotator Cuff Treatment Provider

To discover which treatment option is the best to alleviate your rotator cuff pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Howard Marans at OCOrthopedic+. The Doctor will craft an individualized treatment plan uniquely tailored to address your needs. Please click the icon below to schedule your consultation at OC Orthopedic+ – or – call 714.979.8981.

The Most Effective Knee Arthritis Treatments

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Arthritis – inflammation of joints – is one of the most common reasons individuals seek the care of a orthopedic doctor. There are a number of conditions causing arthritis in the knee. Non-surgical treatments can directly improve symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life.Orthopedic Knee Surgery

Types of Arthritis

There are a number of different types of arthritis:

  • Osteoarthritis – Caused by the loss of cartilage, osteoarthritis is commonly seen in older individuals.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis – The result of a immune disorder where the body attacks its own joints.
  • Post Traumatic Arthritis – Commonly seen in athletes, post-traumatic arthritis occurs after a severe injury.

Non-Surgical Knee Arthritis Treatments

Ideally, surgery should be the last option. Surgery has risks. There are a number of treatments addressing the symptoms of knee arthritis in a less invasive way, including:

  • Physical Therapy – Physical therapy is a method of restoring movement and strength to the knee. Done under the care a physical therapist, exercises, stretches, and strength building techniques are combined to address the patient’s symptoms. In addition to therapy sessions, individuals undergoing physical therapy should continue exercising at home in order to receive the full benefit of their treatment.
  • Losing Weight – One of the major causes of knee pain is being overweight. That pain can be even greater for individuals with arthritis. Losing weight, even as little as 10 percent of a person’s weight, can substantially reduce knee pain and reduce swelling.
  • Pain Medications – Pain medication, particularly NSAIDs, are generally a good fit for knee arthritis treatments. These medications are available over the counter or by prescription based upon each patient’s needs. While pain medication can decrease the symptoms of knee arthritis, they should not be the only treatment method. Pain medication should be taken as a part of a full treatment plan.
  • Injections – Injections of steroids and pain medication are common ways of addressing knee arthritis. Steroids reduce inflammation in the joints which, in turn, increases mobility and decreases pain. Additionally, pain medication can be injected directly into the knee when other pain management methods are unsuccessful.

Surgical Knee Arthritis Treatments

In instances where a knee has been severely damaged by arthritis, surgery may be the only option. In some instances the damaged cartilage in the knee can be replaced with a prosthetic. Surgery is only recommended when non-surgical knee arthritis treatments are not likely to address the symptoms. Although knee surgery is invasive, it can restore the strength and flexibility patients need in order to improve their quality of life.

Knee Arthritis Treatment Provider

Finding the right treatment for your arthritis depends on the type of arthritis and its severity. OC Orthopedic+ can help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need. For additional information on the treatment of knee arthritis, contact Dr. Howard Marans today. Please click below to schedule your consultation – or – call  714.979.8981.

Who is the Best Sports Medicine Doctor in Huntington Beach, CA?

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Athletes have unique needs when it comes to medical care. This is especially true when dealing with a sports injury. In order to receive the best care, it is important to work with a sports medicine surgeon who understands those unique needs.foot-pain-ca Unfortunately, many athletes assume that is difficult to find a doctor who has the experience and know how to address their unique needs. Knowing what to look for can help you to select the right physician.

Finding the Right Sports Medicine Surgeon

Identifying the medical specialist who is best suited to address your medical needs is key to an athlete’s recovery. There are a number of things to consider when selecting a physician.

Referrals

Referrals are one of the best ways to identify a doctor with a great reputation for addressing sports related injuries. If you’re facing surgery to correct an injury, be sure to ask your teammates, coaches, and others in the sport about their experiences with physicians. Injuries are very common for athletes. Chances are, a number of individuals in your circle have experience with specialists.

Insurance Acceptance

One of the largest selecting a sports medicine surgeon is an individual’s out of pocket costs and insurance acceptance. Medical insurance can substantially decrease how much an individual has to pay out of pocket for treatment. In order to maximize benefits, it is important to select a provider who is in network for your insurance. Speak with the insurance department at potential providers to understand your coverage and your expected out of pocket costs.

Experience

In sports medicine, experience is crucial. Physicians with extensive experience are best suited to fully treat medical issues. These tenured individuals have their experience, education, and daily interactions with athletes at their disposals. Additionally, you should take care to ensure potential physicians specialize in the treatment of athletes.

Best Surgeon in Huntington Beach

The best sports medicine surgeon in Huntington Beach is Dr. Howard Marans.

For more than 20 years, Dr. Marans has provided world class orthopedic care from the same location. His extensive experience with elite athletes uniquely qualifies Dr. Marans to address sports-related issues. He understands the need of athletes to fully recover from their injuries, while being cognizant of the time they need to spend away from their sport. This unique balancing act can only be achieved through experience and dedication. Dr. Marans is able to achieve high levels of success by treating each patient as an individual.

To schedule an appointment with the best sports medicine surgeon in Huntington Beach – Dr. Howard Marans – contact OC Orthopedic+ today. Please click below to schedule your consultation – or – call 714.979.8981.

Are Carpal Tunnel Treatments Expensive?

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Numbness, shooting pain, and tingling in the wrists, hands, and arms are some of the most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The condition is common in wrists and hands, particularly for those individuals who make repetitive movements. There are a number carpal tunnel treatments available based upon a number of factors, including the severity of your condition.

wrist fractureUnderstanding Carpal Tunnel Treatments

Treatment for carpal tunnel is generally covered by medical insurance, making treatment affordable for many individuals. Understanding carpal tunnel syndrome and the condition’s treatment options is necessary to determine who you should select as your medical care provider .

Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the result of pressure on the median nerve. The median nerve travels through the forearm and down into the palm. The nerve is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the thumb and fingers. The nerve travels through a part of the body known as the carpal tunnel. If the area around the nerve becomes inflamed, pressure is placed on the median nerve which results in the symptoms of carpal tunnel.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms of carpal tunnel typically start slowly and then increase over time.

Symptoms include:

  • Numbness, itching, tingling, or other abnormal sensations in the hands or fingers
  • Feeling as though the hands are swollen
  • Symptoms of numbness or loss of sensation in the hands after sleeping
  • Feeling the need to shake out the hands

Treatments for Carpal Tunnel

In order to have the best outcome, it is important that patients suffering from the symptoms of carpal tunnel see a specialist as soon as possible. Treatment options for carpel tunnel vary based upon each patient’s specific need.

  • Medication – To reduce inflammation and eliminate many of the feelings associated with carpal tunnel
  • Exercise – Exercise helps to build strength in the hands and wrists which can reduce symptoms and aid in healing
  • Surgery – Surgery generally becomes a treatment option only after other, less invasive options for treatment have been tried without success
  • Surgery often involves surgically increasing the amount of space in the carpal tunnel which thereby reduces pressure on the nerve
  • Holistic Options – Some patients report finding relief through holistic treatment options including acupuncture and yoga

An individual’s out of pocket cost for carpal tunnel treatment will depend on their exact treatment plan as well as their insurance coverage. Generally, less invasive options such as medication and exercise are more cost effective than surgery.

More Info on Carpal Tunnel Treatment and Costs

To receive additional information on carpal tunnel syndrome treatments, or for personalized information on your out of pocket costs, contact OCOrthopedic+ today. Dr. Howard Marans is the leading provider of orthopedic care in the Orange County area. Please click the icon below to schedule your consultation – or – call 714.979.8981.

The Top Reviewed Sports Medicine Center in Orange County

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Many athletes have experienced moments of aches and pains. When those pains don’t improve on their own through rest and self care, it is important to immediately see a doctor specializing in sports medicine. Selecting the top sports medicine center does not have to be the most trying aspect of coping with an injury. In order to have the best results, it is important to work with a proven expert in the field.

aclTop Sports Medicine Center

The first step in receiving treatment is to know what you’re looking for in a doctor. Finding a sports medicine specialist is key. Athletes require the special care of an expert. Sports medicine doctors have specialized training and experience allowing them to properly diagnose and treat sports injuries. The plan of treatment for an athlete is often very different than that of other patients due to the specific needs of athletes. Rather than simply addressing the symptoms, athletes are looking for the shortest recovery time while receiving treatment allowing them to return to top form. This may mean more aggressive treatment options in order to reap greater rewards. Finding that right sports medicine treatment center can be made easier by obtaining reviews from others with similar experiences.

Sports Medicine Center Reviews

One of the best ways to get a first-hand account about a sports medicine doctor and their center is through reviews. To start, ask family and friends about sports medicine doctors they’ve worked with in the past. Athletes should be sure to ask other athletes in their sport. These individuals are highly likely to have their own experiences with the treatment of sports injuries.

Top Reviewed Sports Medicine Center in Orange County

OCOrthopedic+ is the top sports medicine center. Dr. Howard Marans has served the Orange County area for more than 30 years. The Doctor understands the specific needs of athletes being able to return to their to top performance level.

  • A prompt and accurate diagnosis
  • A comprehensive treatment plan
  • A recurrent injury prevention plan

Discover the Top Sports Medicine Center

Dr. Marans tailors every patient’s physical therapy treatment plan to their individual needs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Howard Marans at OCOrthopedic+, please click the icon below – or – call 714.979.8981.

The Best Available Arthritis Treatments

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Arthritis is joint inflammation. Joint inflammation can vary between mild and severe. Symptoms include stiffness, pain, and limited mobility which generally worsen as an individual ages. There are a number of types of arthritis, each with a different cause and different treatment approach. Understanding the types and arthritis treatment options can help you to have fully informed conversations with your medical team.

Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of the disease. The ailment occurs as a result of wearing of the joints. The wear can be the result of normal activities over the course of a person’s lifespan, or can occur due to an injury. In each of your joint’s cartilage provides a cover for the bone. As this protective coating wears, the bones begin to rub against one another, which causes the symptoms commonly associated with the disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is the result of an autoimmune disorder. The body’s immune system begins to fight itself, specifically attacking the joint capsule. This tough membrane in turn becomes inflamed, and swelling ultimately harms both the cartilage within the joint and the bones.

As a part of the diagnostic process, your doctor will determine the type and cause of your arthritis symptoms. Understanding the nature of your condition is the only way to determine which arthritis treatment is best suited to meet your needs.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The first indication of an issue with arthritis is often pain within the joints. This pain can vary greatly between individuals, based on the type of arthritis. Additionally, there are other symptoms accompanying the pain of arthritis, including:

  • Stiffness or difficulty moving the joints
  • Swelling of the joints
  • Redness around the affected area
  • A decreased range of motion or limited mobility

If untreated, the symptoms of arthritis can continue to worsen. Arthritis can substantially impact a person’s quality of life and make simple tasks difficult. Therefore, it is important to seek arthritis treatment as soon as possible after symptoms arise.

Diagnosing Arthritis

A feeling of pain in the joints is what generally brings individuals with arthritis in to see their doctor. In order to diagnose arthritis, patients are given a physical exam. This exam will look for the external symptoms of arthritis including pain, swelling, and redness. The doctor may ask to see you walk or move as a way to determine your flexibility, mobility, and range of option.

In addition to the physical exam, blood work and imaging is done to confirm an arthritis diagnosis. Ultrasound, MRI, CT, and X-rays are used o take a closer look at the bones and cartilage. Beyond imaging, blood work provides a wealth of information about the disease, including the type of arthritis. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective arthritis treatment.

Arthritis Treatment

The goal of arthritis treatment is to reduce symptoms and improve one’s mobility. Arthritis treatment should be based on the specific medical needs of each individual patient. Often, effective treatment includes multiple options allowing patients to feel pain relief and regain their quality of life.

Arthritis treatment options include the following:

Medication

There are a number of medications available helping to relieve the symptoms of arthritis:

  • Analgesics – These medications are available over the counter – or – per prescription, depending on the patient’s needs. These medications decrease the amount of pain a person experiences. However, analgesics do nothing to address the inflammation within the joints.
  • NSAIDs – Otherwise known as non-steriodal anti-inflammatory drugs, these are also available over the counter or by prescription. NSAIDs serve two purposes. NSAIDs reduce the amount of pain a person feels as well as inflammation.
  • Counterirritants – These medications work by aggravating another area near the joint to disrupt the body’s communication of pain. For example, a counterirritant cream can have a burning sensation. This interferes with the signal of pain from the joint to the brain, reducing the amount of pain that is felt.
  • DMARDs – Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs are specifically used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. DMARDs work by preventing a person’s immune system from attacking the joints.
  • Corticosteriods – Corticosteroids both suppress the immune system and decrease the amount of inflammation in the body. The medications may be taken orally or injected into the inflamed joint to provide targeted relief.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy may be used as an arthritis treatment for a number of causes. The goal of physical therapy is to strengthen the affected area, reduce pain, and return one’s mobility. Special exercises targeting specific joints are used. Additionally, medical devices – such as braces – can be prescribed as a supplement to physical therapy.

Surgery

Surgery is the most invasive type of arthritis treatment. This method is generally used only after all non-invasive arthritis treatment options have failed. Surgical arthritis treatment options include:

  • Repairing the Joint – Some joints may be adjusted surgically in order to address the symptoms of arthritis. Surgical repairs can include placing the joint back in alignment, or resurfacing the joints to address bones that are rubbing against one another.
  • Joint Replacement – When surgical repair is not an option, joint replacement may provide relief. In joint replacement, the injured joint is removed surgically. Then, an artificial replacement joint is surgically implanted in the patient. This procedure is commonly done to address issues in the hips and knees.
  • Joint Fusion – Joint fusion is generally used as an arthritis treatment for small bones such as those in the wrists and fingers. In this procedure, both of the intersecting joints are filed down. Then, the bones are attached. The goal of joint fusion is to fuse the two bones together so that there is no need for a joint.

Holistic Treatment

Arthritis treatment is not limited to Western medicine. Ancient medicine has been used for centuries as a way to help alleviate arthritic pain. Holistic treatment options addressing the symptoms of arthritic pain include:

  • Acupuncture – This ancient Chinese medical practice uses small, thin needles to redirect energy within the targeted pain area and ultimately reduce pain.
  • Glucosamine – Glucosamine is a natural supplement proven to decrease the pain commonly associated as arthritis.
  • Yoga – Yoga is another ancient method of controlling the energy within a person’s body. Additionally, the stretching motions performed during yoga can directly improve one’s flexibility and range of motion.
  • Massage – Massage helps to increase blood flow necessary for inflamed joints to receive the oxygen they need. Individuals who are considering massage as an arthritis treatment should make sure that their masseuse is qualified to provide arthritis treatment.

Best Available Arthritis Treatment Provider

To discover which arthritis treatment is the best to alleviate your joint pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Howard Marans at OCOrthopedic+. The Doctor will craft an individualized treatment plan uniquely tailored to address your arthritic pain needs. Please click the icon below to schedule your consultation at OC Orthopedic+ or call 714.979.8981.

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