Bone and joint diseases affect millions of people around the world. Injuries through trauma and conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis can result in debilitating pain and physical disability, and have a significant effect on an individual’s quality of life.
At Southern Maryland Hospital Center, we provide state-of-the art care from board-certified orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists. We also have a comprehensive team of physical and occupational therapists, orthopedic nursing staff and case management nurses. Every SMHC professional on staff keeps one focus in mind – your recovery and quality of life.
The spine is a complex structure. With flexible joints formed by 24 interlocking bones (vertebrae) separated by shock-absorbing discs, all surrounding the spinal cord, much can go wrong from injury, age or disease. Common disorders of the spine are low back pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, sciatica, spondylosis (arthritis) and spondylolisthesis (shifting of the vertebrae).
Depending on severity, chronic nature and symptoms, therapeutic procedures at SMHC can vary from exercise to ultrasound to electrical-stimulation treatments. We offer patients pain management, fit them with adaptive equipment and retrain them in the performance of daily activities.
Total Joint Replacements
Total joint replacements – most commonly hips, knees and shoulders – are performed when all other treatment options have failed.
Rehabilitation therapy is usually initiated immediately following surgery. Therapists recommend exercises, machines and medications to help maintain circulation, strengthen muscles and increase range of motion.
After progress is made, continued therapy can be received through home health services, at a subacute care center or skilled nursing facility, in an acute rehabilitation facility, or as an outpatient.
Trauma-Related Injuries/Disorders
Trauma from motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, repetitive movement injuries, slips, falls and strains often cause musculoskeletal injuries. Depending on the location and severity of the injury or disorder, healing must take place prior to rehabilitation.
When cleared by an orthopedist, patients with lower extremity fractures may be referred for rehabilitation before the cast or brace is removed. The orthopedic rehab center teaches safe methods for walking and participating in daily activities while therapy improves strength and mobility.
In the case of broken bones, after a cast or brace has been removed, muscles around injured sites are usually weakened and stiff from disuse. At that point, rehabilitation helps to strengthen weakened muscles and to give patients increased independence.
