4 minute read
Medical Services
It may develop gradually as stiffness or discomfort in a joint, or a shakiness when performing basic functions such as walking or standing up.
Or it may happen quickly, as a twist or sprain that does not improve after a couple of days. Any of these conditions could be signs it is time to seek care from an orthopedic specialist.
in treating the entire musculoskeletal system. This includes all 300 bones and joints, but also comprises tendons, muscles, nerves, ligaments, and cartilage. Orthopedic specialists carry a deeper knowledge than a primary care physician of conditions related to these systems, and are able to guide a patient on both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
So when will a patient know it’s time to go directly to an orthopedic specialist? Here are some common signs:
ties, such as climbing stairs, walking, or even getting up from a chair. 2. Joint or muscle pain that per 3. Limited range of motion. Increasing tightness in joints may indicate an underlying process, such as arthritis. Early treatment can keep it from getting worse. A feeling of shakiness while standing, walking, or sitting down is one sure sign there is something awry with joints. compression, and elevation. While none of these circumstances in itself might feel alarming, they could be signs of underlying conditions that an orthopedic doctor is trained to diagnose and treat. Some of the more familiar issues include:
Arthritis, including Osteoarthri Bursitis Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) (Golfer’s or Baseball Elbow) Fibromyalgia Fracture Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Kyphosis Osteoporosis Scoliosis When choosing an orthopedic team, it award-winning, rated highly by patients and peers, and with resources to deliver a range of treatments, including:
In An Emergency
Types of health care options
When it comes to your health, it’s best to know your options in terms of quality care providers and treatment facilities. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of either in our area. From general practitioners and primary care physicians to specialists in a particular area of medicine, one doesn’t have to travel far to receive the best care. Likewise, we’re also fortunate to have state-of-the art healthcare facilities in the area.
There are many options available when you need treatment for an illness or injury, including your physician, an urgent care center or the hospital emergency room. Health insurer Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) offers advice to help you decide which option is best according to the nature of your ailment.
option when your condition is not an emer history and medications you may be using.
PEDIATRICS
430 W. Bandera Rd., Suite 9 • Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-1717 CommuniCareSA.org
far less than visiting an emergency room. URGENT CARE your doctor isn’t available. The physicians, physician’s assistants and nurse practitioners on staff can provide care for a great range of conditions, including performing x-rays. According to the Cleveland Clinic, an urgent care center is designed to handle conditions that are not life-threatening, but should be treated and strains, sinus infections, ear infections, allergies, especially those that get worse during certain seasons, minor cuts and a good idea to check to make sure the urgent care center you select is covered by your health insurance plan, advises BCBS.
EMERGENCY ROOMS Emergency rooms treat acute and life threatening conditions. If you feel you are dealing with a health emergency, right away. “Hospital emergency rooms treat all emergency situations, but are especially prepared to treat the most serious injuries and medical situations,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.
sudden paralysis, loss of consciousness, bleeding that can’t be stopped, broken bones, head injuries, severe burns, poisoning, accidents including falls, car crashes or caused by violence, emotional or mental health emergency.”
Emergency room visits often require a than a visit to your physician or an urgent care center. Wait times can be long as
For emergencies, dial 911
ambulances are based in Boerne, Comfort and Bergheim, supported by care for those in remote locations Acadian Ambulance Services crews are dispatched along with Leon Springs
We are so pleased to introduce Rayna Smith, PA-C, sionate care at Main Street Urgent Care
