What Patients Should Know About Joint Injuries and Treatment
In a recent interview with the American Medical Association (AMA), Mark T. Barron, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, shared information about joint injuries and treatment in the AMA’s “What Doctors Wish Patients Knew™” series. Dr. Barron discussed the most common causes of joint injuries, how they are diagnosed and what patients can do to aid recovery and prevent further problems.
Joint injuries, he explained, can result from sports, falls, overuse or everyday activities such as yard work or lifting heavy objects. While some aches may heal with rest and ice, others may signal something more serious, such as a fracture, dislocation or underlying condition. Barron shared that falls, especially when trying to catch yourself, are a leading cause of injury.
Barron walked through the diagnostic process, which can include a physical exam, X-rays, advanced imaging like an MRI and nerve conduction tests to pinpoint the cause of pain. He stressed the value of early evaluation, noting that untreated injuries can cause a cascade of issues in other parts of the body.
Treatment often begins with the RICE method: rest, ice, compression and elevation. Physical therapy is another key step, but it requires patient commitment to see results. Preventive measures such as stretching, strengthening the core, maintaining a healthy weight and practicing safe lifting techniques can reduce risk.
“As we age, sometimes you have to pay attention to things more and not ignore them because if you ignore them, it could lead to a bigger problem,” Dr. Barron said. “Getting checked out with your primary care or sports medicine doctor could save you from long-term issues or problems.”
From diagnosis to prevention, Dr. Barron’s insights highlight the importance of listening to your body, acting early and following through with treatment to keep your joints healthy and strong.
You can read the full AMA feature here: https://www.ama-assn.org/public-health/prevention-wellness/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-joint-injuries-and
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About Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine:
Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics treats a spectrum of orthopaedic conditions and diseases including musculoskeletal injuries, fractures and complex total joint reconstructions. In addition, the clinic also provides surgical treatments for arthritis including joint replacement, surgery for traumatic injuries and general sports medicine.
Arthroscopic techniques are routinely utilized in the management of orthopaedic problems and close coordination with Hattiesburg Clinic Physical Therapy departments enhance outpatient treatment and early rehabilitation. We offer comprehensive services, including primary care, sports medicine, orthopaedic surgery and physical therapy. Additionally, our facility includes a connected 14,310-square-foot indoor sports performance center and a variety of training systems.
About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.
