Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the advantage of visiting a total care orthopaedic facility?
Visiting a total care orthopaedic facility provides you with an unparalleled continuum of care from diagnostic testing and treatment to physical therapy and rehabilitation. We also offer you the expertise of a group of talented specialized orthopaedic surgeons and a variety of on-site services that most orthopaedic practices cannot provide. Southern Bone & Joint Specialists provides a multitude of specialized services including individual rehabilitation programs, back school instruction, continuing education classes on shoulder and spinal mobilization, hand and aquatic therapy, and custom splinting and bracing. Physical therapy is sometimes used as a treatment in and of itself. It also plays a vital role post-surgery, to ensure that each patient gains maximum flexibility and strength.
Q: Why do I need to visit a multispecialized team of surgeons when all I need is the expertise of one?
No injury or disorder exists in isolation. Your bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and nerves, for example, all work together to allow you to walk, sit, bend down to pick up an object off the floor and so on. Because of the complex nature of many diseases or injuries, more than one specialist is often required to correctly diagnose and treat a condition as effectively as possible.
Q: Do all the patients at Southern Bone & Joint Specialists require surgery?
No. Most patients can be effectively treated with physical therapy and other nonoperative modalities; other patients may require surgery. At Southern Bone & Joint Specialists, we evaluate each patient individually and recommend the course of action that would most quickly and effectively allow you to enjoy immediate and long-term pain-free activity.
Q: I’ve heard that arthroscopy is used for shoulder injuries. Does this include rotator cuff tears?
Yes. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used for, among other things, repairing rotator cuff injuries. The procedure, which is typically performed at the Southern Bone & Joint Outpatient Surgery Center, is done under local anesthesia, takes an hour or less, and you’ll return home the same day.
Q: I’m considering joint replacement, but I’m concerned about how much pain the surgery itself will cause. Is it worth it?
Deciding whether joint surgery is “worth it” is a decision only you can make, based on the pros and cons presented by your orthopaedic surgeon. Be assured, at Southern Bone & Joint Specialists we will make every effort to prevent and relieve pain during and after surgery, and throughout your rehabilitation, using drug and non-drug alternatives. Post-op pain – unlike the severe joint pain you experienced before surgery – is temporary. Within 3 to 6 months post-surgery, you will be enjoying your favorite activities once again.