Monitor bone and joint pain even if surgery is postponed
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of our daily lives, including delaying surgeries and other treatments for our Ortho Illinois patients with bone and joint injuries, conditions, and pain.
We are grateful for your patience during this unprecedented time. Our team has worked diligently to reach out to patients to postpone and reschedule procedures and answer questions to keep you safe and well until shelter in place restrictions are lifted.
Our telehealth service is a great way for current patients to virtually connect from home with their Ortho Illinois surgeon. For new patients, these virtual visits can provide answers about new injuries or recurring pain (such as back and neck pain or muscular pain) affecting your ability to sleep, function and quality of life.
Delaying a surgery or treatment can feel frustrating and overwhelming, especially when in pain. Here are a few things to keep in mind while you are home to help manage your condition and get you through the coming days and weeks.
Talk to your doctor.
Our Ortho Illinois staff has reached out to many patients informing them of the Governor’s recommendation for delaying non-emergency surgeries and treatments. If you still have questions, call us anytime at 915-398-9491, or schedule a virtual visit through our website or the patient portal.
It’s important to inform your medical team if you have any new symptoms or changes in your health.
Listen to your body.
In some cases, pain for conditions (arthritis, neck and back issues) can be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. Resting and elevating injured parts of the body (such as feet, knees and arms/elbows) can relieve pressure and pain, as can alternating ice and heat (whichever makes you feel the most comfortable).
Restrict activities that contribute to your joint pain (such as climbing stairs or heavy lifting). This is a good time to ask for help from family, friends or neighbors for help with errands such as grocery shopping during shelter in place.
Some conditions such as sports injuries can benefit from continued exercises and physical therapy to strengthen the body and maintain range of motion. Braces and splints for knee and hand injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome will also provide some pain relief.
Always consult with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about managing pain and symptoms. We’ll do our best to maintain your quality of life until your surgery can be rescheduled or the next steps in your treatment plan can happen.
Our offices are open.
As an essential business, our Rockford, Algonquin, and Elgin offices remain open. Injury Express clinics in Rockford and Algonquin are also still offering convenient urgent care for all orthopedic conditions and injuries including joint pain, back pain, sprains, strains, fractures, cuts and scrapes, work and sports injuries.
