If you are scheduled to have orthopaedic surgery, call your doctor’s office to determine whether your surgery should be rescheduled. Our surgery centers are open to provide essential care to our patients so talk to your doctor to help you decide if it’s best to proceed or postpone your surgery.
If you need to (or choose to) change the date of your surgery, we are currently rescheduling patients for the week of May 4th. Please call your surgeon’s office to reschedule. Click here for your Spectrum provider’s contact information.
In the meantime, below are some potentially helpful recommendations for common orthopaedic issues. (Before beginning any new regimen, consult your surgeon to be sure that they are recommended for your situation.)
Joint Problems:
- Change your activity so that you’re avoiding movements that cause pain. For example, if you’re knee, hip or ankle hurts, try to avoid too much walking or stairs. If it’s your shoulder that hurts, don’t lift heavy objects.
- Apply ice or heat to the joint, whichever brings you most comfort.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may reduce swelling and pain.
- Don’t avoid exercise. Movement can help preserve range of motion, but don’t perform activities that cause severe pain.
Spine Problems
- Rest and avoid movements that make your pain worse.
- Avoid bending, lifting, or twisting.
- NSAIDS may reduce swelling and pain.
- You can continue provider-approved exercise regimens. If you have any neurological changes in your arms and legs, like weakness or numbness, call your doctor.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- The best relief you will get is most likely from a wearing a wrist splint at night and taking an anti-inflammatory medication.
Source: Stuart J. Fischer, MD, FAAOS; OrthoInfo: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
