What Are Injuries?
The human body is built for movement, but bones, joints, and soft tissues can be damaged by sudden force or repeated stress. At Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute, Dr. Patrick Brooks treats orthopedic injuries affecting the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and other tissues involved in movement. Some injuries happen suddenly during a fall, accident, workout, or sport. Others develop from repeated stress or overuse. Common bone and joint problems include fractures, strains, joint injuries, hip injuries, knee injuries, sprains, and ligament tears. Sports injuries may include ACL injury and other damage caused by quick turns, awkward landings, or direct impact. Dr. Brooks frequently treats fractures. A fracture occurs when a bone cracks or breaks. In fact, the terms fracture and broken bones describe the same type of injury. Fractures can range from small cracks to severe breaks that move the bone out of its normal position. Pain does not always reveal the full extent of an injury. An orthopedic evaluation can identify damaged structures and determine what may be needed for proper healing. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Brooks at our Jacksonville Beach, FL practice for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
How Are Orthopedic Injuries Treated?
Effective injury treatment starts with finding the source and extent of the damage. Dr. Brooks may examine the injured area, check movement and stability, and review how the injury occurred. Imaging and x-rays may provide a closer look at bones, joints, and surrounding tissues. Mild strains and some other soft-tissue injuries may improve with activity changes, medication, bracing, and physical therapy. Many fractures need to be held in the correct position while new bone forms. A cast, splint, or brace can limit unwanted movement during healing. Some breaks may need the bone to be repositioned. More complex fractures can require surgery with plates, screws, rods, or other devices to stabilize the bone. Treatment for joint injuries, including certain hip injuries and knee injuries, may also involve rehabilitation, injections, or surgery, based on the diagnosis. An ACL injury, for example, can affect knee stability and may require rehabilitation or surgical reconstruction, depending on the person's activity level and degree of damage.
What Are the Signs of a Serious Orthopedic Injury?
Prompt evaluation can be especially important for suspected broken bones, major sports injuries, and injuries that affect normal movement. Early diagnosis gives Dr. Brooks and his medical team at Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute more information to determine the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatment. Signs that may point to a more serious injury include:
- Severe or increasing pain
- Significant swelling or bruising
- An inability to put weight on an injured leg
- Difficulty moving a joint or limb
- A joint that feels unstable or gives way
- A bone or joint that looks out of position
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- A popping sound or sensation at the time of injury
- Pain that does not improve with rest
- An open wound near a suspected fracture
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This was the first time any doctor has done such a thorough exam and clearly explained to me the options. The atmosphere was professional and compassionate. Everyone I encountered was friendly and knowledgeable. I am so grateful that JOI and Dr. Brooks are caring for my injuries and I fully trust the treatment plan.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Injuries
What is the difference between a fracture and a broken bone?
A fracture and a broken bone mean the same thing. These terms describe a crack or break in the bone, from a small hairline crack to a complete break. The severity, location, and position of the bone help determine how the injury should be managed.
What is the difference between a sprain, strain, and fracture?
A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which connects one bone to another. A strain affects a muscle or tendon, while a fracture involves the bone. These injuries can cause similar symptoms, so an exam and imaging may be needed to identify the damaged structure.
What injuries can cause joint pain and swelling?
Joint pain and swelling can develop after ligament tears, cartilage damage, dislocations, fractures, and other injuries near a joint. Knee injuries such as an ACL tear or meniscus injury are common examples. Dr. Brooks can evaluate the affected joint to identify the source of the symptoms and recommend treatment based on the diagnosis.
Can a sports injury get worse without treatment?
Some mild sports injuries improve with rest and activity changes, but others can become more troublesome without proper treatment. Continuing to play with an unstable joint, damaged ligament, or other significant injury can place added stress on the area. An evaluation can help athletes learn which activities are safe while the injury heals.
Can I exercise while recovering from an injury?
The answer depends on the type and severity of the injury. Some patients can continue low-impact exercise or train areas of the body that are not injured, while others need greater activity restrictions. Dr. Brooks can provide guidance on appropriate activity and may recommend physical therapy as recovery progresses.
Get Back to Activities that Matter
Bone, muscle, and joint injuries are among the many reasons people seek orthopedic treatment. While some injuries heal with simple measures and time, others need medical treatment to restore alignment, stability, or function. A proper diagnosis can distinguish a minor injury from a fracture, ligament tear, or other condition that requires more involved treatment. Dr. Patrick Brooks evaluates and treats a range of musculoskeletal injuries at Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute. Each treatment plan is based on the injury, its severity, and the patient's needs. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brooks in Jacksonville Beach, FL to find out what is causing your symptoms and what can help you return to the activities you enjoy.