An orthopedic doctor in Thousand Oaks treats all types of injuries and damage to the musculoskeletal system. This consists of your bones, muscles, joints, cartilage and tendons. The system is among the most important in the body and is responsible for all of your movements. Of all the injuries that may be treated by an orthopedic doctor in Thousand Oaks, sports injuries are among the most common.

Sports Injuries

Sports injuries can occur in almost any part of the body. Injuries can be caused by repetition and by an immediate impact or twist and turn that harms the joints or muscles. Sports injuries can happen to anyone of any age. Most people associate sports injuries with professional athletes. You don’t have to be a professional athlete to suffer an injury while participating in a sporting activity.

Sports injuries to the knees and shoulders are quite common. Knee injuries can be particularly debilitating. Injuries are common to the meniscus, the cartilage discs that hold the knee in place between the upper and lower leg. When this is damaged or torn the orthopedic doctor in Thousand Oaks may want to perform arthroscopic surgery.

Arthroscopic surgery uses a small incision to insert the instrument. The doctor uses the arthroscope to view the inside of the area and to repair the meniscus or to remove part or all of it. Arthroscopic surgery is very safe and there are few potential risks. After surgery you will need to keep the knee stable, which may be done using a cast or brace. Once healing is advanced you can participate in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Your Visit to an Orthopedic Doctor in Thousand Oaks

You may wonder what to expect when you visit the orthopedic doctor in Thousand Oaks. The doctor will evaluate your medical history and will perform an examination. You will need to have some tests done that will help the doctor diagnose and treat your condition. We have state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment here including digital x-rays and ultrasound imaging.

These are easy, painless and non-invasive diagnostic tests and the doctor will receive digital images on his iPad. The doctor will then be able to give you an updated evaluation in the exam room. Once the doctor makes a diagnosis he will provide you information about the treatment plan that is best suited to your injury.

Not every injury requires surgical treatment. The first course of treatment is generally rest and stabilization along with the application of cold treatments to reduce swelling and medication to eliminate pain. Surgery may be indicated in cases where this treatment doesn’t help.

If you have already been to a doctor for your injury it is best to bring along the information and documentation from that physician. You will also want to provide the doctor with details of your injury including when and how it occurred, if you know, and the symptoms that you have been having since then. To get started with treatment, contact our office to schedule an appointment.