What to do when orthopedic or muscular skeletal pain strikes

At times it might be difficult to determine where to go when orthopedic or muscular skeletal pain strikes. Should you go to the emergency room, Tahoe Fracture Quick Care or schedule an appointment with your doctor? Tahoe Fracture and Orthopedic Medical Clinic knows that it is important to have a solid plan in place before you are in pain. The doctors at Tahoe Fracture have compiled some practical tips to guide you in the right direction.

It is best to visit Tahoe Fracture Quick Care when your condition is urgent. For example, if you are experiencing severe or sudden pain related to a recent or ongoing injury. Tahoe Fracture Quick Care is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“Tahoe Fracture Quick Care offers top-notch care delivered immediately to our patients experiencing orthopedic pain,” said Dr. Jeffrey Cummings. “If you are suffering from urgent or sudden pain, you’re encouraged to walk in to get the medical attention you deserve.”

A trip to the emergency room is mandatory if you see an arm or leg bent in the wrong direction or if your bone is protruding. If you are unable to walk or move, it is best to call for help immediately and get to the emergency room as soon as possible. Regardless of the severity of your condition, the emergency room is the only option when you are in pain after Tahoe Fracture Quick Care hours.

“Once you’ve arrived at the emergency room, you can request to see one Tahoe Fracture’s orthopedic specialists to ensure you receive consistent and ongoing care from our office,” Cummings said.

At times it might be best to schedule a regular appointment with your orthopedic physician. See your doctor for chronic muscular skeletal conditions and long-developing conditions like arthritis. Regular check-ups with your doctor will help you to maintain optimum health.

For more information on Tahoe Fracture and Orthopedic Medical Clinic, visitwww.tahoefracture.com or call 775-392-3675.

Preventative tips

Winter safety tips for seniors to avoid slipping on the ice:

Make sure to wear sturdy winter boots or shoes with good traction on them

Invest in a pair of non-skid sole shoes or winter walking ice traction grips that can be attached to your shoes

If possible, avoid leaving home when roads and sidewalks are extremely icy o Use a cane or other stabilizing device for assistance

Remove wet shoes as soon as you enter your home to avoid creating slippery conditions inside

Seasonal – people who may be out and about in the cold weather

Create a plan in advance for how to safely attend work, appointments, delayed school starts, etc., during snowy days, i.e. will your car be safe to drive? Do you need to give yourself extra time?

Avoid walking on slick streets or sidewalks

If possible, make sure to clear your driveway/walk ways of snow and de-ice them to prevent slipping

Dress for colder weather; wear layered outfits

Wear a waterproof coat or jacket if you know it will be snowing or raining outside and the proper head cover and gloves

Check the weather forecast daily to ensure your and others safety

Preventative Safety Tips for Skiers/Snowboarders/Sledders: o Use good quality protective equipment at all times

Helmets, goggles, and even wrist guards when necessary o Make sure that skis and snowboards are adjusted and fit properly o Stay in control of your environment

Make sure you’ve received formal training if you’re a new skier or snowboarder. If you’re a veteran skier or snowboarder, it never hurts to take a refresher course.

Give people in front of you the right-of-way

Avoid wearing headphones so you can hear what is going on around you

Look uphill first before merging

Engage in year-round weight training and resistance exercises to build strength that will help you to maintain proper form on the hill

Preventative Safety Tips for Indoor Athletes (basketball, volleyball, etc.)

Warm up and stretch for the proper amount of time before playing to ensure that your body is ready

Take time to cool down after playing

Wear the correct gear and shoes (make sure they fit)

Remove any hazards like wet spots or rocks, from the ground

Wear a mouth guard

Practice the proper techniques for playing, jumping, landing, passing, etc.