Frequently Asked Questions

What is an orthopedic physician?

An orthopedic physician is a medical doctor who specializes in the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system comprises the bones, joints, and muscles of the body. Many orthopedic physicians specialize in treating specific areas of body, which can include the spine (neck & back), shoulder and elbow, hand and wrist, hip, knee, and foot and ankle. Most orthopedic physicians are trained in surgery, while some are trained in providing nonsurgical treatment methods.

What is a fellowship?

A fellowship is an additional year of training in a specific area of orthopedics (e.g. sports medicine, joint replacement). After receiving their medical degrees and completing a 5-year orthopedic residency, orthopedic physicians either begin practicing medicine or pursue a fellowship for an additional year of advanced and specialized training before practicing. 

What is physiatry?

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) or physiatry is a branch of medicine that aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments disabilities. Blair Orthopedics' physiatrist, Dr. David J. Bozak, specializes in restoring optimal function to people with injuries to the muscles, bones, tissues, and nervous system.

What is an EMG?

A Physiatrist my perform electrodiagnostics which are used to provide nervous system functional information for diagnosis for various nervous system disorders.The common electrodiagnostic  tests performed are nerve conduction studies (NCS) and needle electromyographies (EMG). The nerve conduction study involves electrical stimulation to nerves, and the nerves' responses are measured. Needle electromyography requires needle electrode insertion into the muscle to detect the electrical potential generated from muscle fibers. Abnormal electrical potentials detect by EMG needles indicate the presence of muscle fibers that have abnormal nerve supplies.

What is a primary care sports medicine physician?

A physician with specialized training who promotes lifelong fitness and wellness, and encourages prevention of illness and injury. Our Primary Care Sports Medicine physicians, Dr. Eric Kephart & Dr. Shawn Saylor, helps patients maximize function and minimize disability and time away from sports, work, or school.

Most primary care sports medicine physicians have a primary specialty in Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, most of whom obtain 1-2 years of additional training in sports medicine through accredited fellowship (subspecialty) programs in Sports Medicine. During their fellowship training, Sports Medicine Physicians received additional training in the non-musculoskeletal aspects of sports medicine. Common examples of these are: mild brain injury and other head injuries, athletes with chronic or acute illness, and injury prevention.

Do Sports Medicine Physicians only treat competitive athletes? No, Sports Medicine Physicians are ideal physicians for the non-athlete as well, and are excellent resources for the individual who wishes to become active or begin an exercise program.

What is osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a disease affecting a person’s joints. Cartilage that provides cushion within the joint wears away, causing bone-on-bone pain. Contributing factors to osteoarthritis are a highly active lifestyle and genetics. This disease often results in a need for joint replacement surgery, most commonly of the hip and knee. 

What is joint replacement surgery? 

Joint replacement surgery entails replacing a diseased joint with an artificial implant. Technological advancements in joint replacement surgery over the past two decades have resulted in better outcomes for patients. Today, physicians perform less invasive procedures and use more durable and better-functioning implant material.

How long does it take to recover from joint replacement surgery? 

Joint replacement surgery is inpatient surgery. Most patients can be up and walking within a day or two of surgery and can walk unaided within a month. The length of recovery will vary from individual to individual based on the doctor’s and physical therapist’s advice, as well as the patient’s desire. After a full recovery, most patients can return safely to their favorite activities. 

Is surgery the only option for joint conditions?

No. Orthopedic surgeons will only recommend surgery when other less invasive treatment methods, such as physical therapy, injections, bracing, and medications, are explored. 

When osteoarthritis is detected early, nonsurgical treatment can be effective in reducing pain associated with the disease. However, for advanced osteoarthritis cases, surgery is often the best option for successful treatment. 

How do I know when it’s time to see a doctor about an injury?

If pain in your joints or muscles is recurring and is affecting your lifestyle, this is usually the best indicator that you may need professional medical care to treat your problem. The R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) method can be used at home to help relieve pain and swelling of injuries. But when this is unsuccessful, a specialist in orthopedics can help.