House Call: Marshall Baca, MD
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Orthopedic Medicine
From high-school sports and running clubs to golfing with friends and playing with grandchildren — taking part in activities brings great joy to our lives, but it can also come with injuries and setbacks. And for those in physically demanding jobs, the day-to-day grind can wear on muscles, bones and joints, and lead to acute and long-term disorders.
As an orthopedic surgeon with a specialty in sports medicine, I’ve seen countless people over the years who have to put their hobbies, interests and jobs on hold to recover from an injury. I know this can be challenging and disruptive but the sooner you address the root cause, the sooner you’ll be back to your daily routine.
Some of the most common sports injuries we see at Artesia General Hospital are wrist and ankle fractures, sprains and strains. Sprains and fractures can feel similar but often warrant different treatments. A high-degree sprain is a more serious ligament disruption that may require surgery. Similarly, ACL, MCL and shoulder injuries, like a labrum tear, could also require surgery.
We also frequently care for orthopedic injuries that transpire from overuse. Have you ever had tennis elbow? Then you know what I’m talking about. These microtraumas usually require physical or occupational therapy with modalities ranging from electrical simulation and ultrasound to traditional strength training and flexibility exercises. If you have persistent pain that fails to improve, it’s important to undergo evaluation and begin a treatment plan that’s right for you.
As you look for a provider that can help you recover from an orthopedic injury, ask questions that help you understand your radiology, therapy and surgical options — for example, do they provide minimally invasive and arthroscopic techniques? One size doesn’t fit all and it’s important that you feel educated about your treatment options and advocate for yourself.
It’s Never Too Early (or Too Late) to Prevent Sports Injuries
With a fellowship in pediatric orthopedics, I’m passionate about treating patients of all ages and educating families on how their children can avoid sports injuries.
Did you know experts recommend that children participate in more than one sport to allow a transfer of skills that may improve speed, strength and flexibility, thus reducing the risk of a sports injury? Often times, children will “stick to one sport.” While it’s wonderful that they’ve identified an activity they enjoy and excel at, incorporating cross-training can have a significant impact on their physical well-being and decrease their risk of injury. However, balance and moderation are key and should remain a priority. For budding athletes and active kids, intense levels of activity and rapid increases in activity can lead to overuse injuries and emotional stress.
Stretching is also crucial to increasing mobility and preventing injuries. For active people of all ages, developing a daily stretching routine can help protect joints, increase stabilization and improve range of motion.
Get Back to Doing the Things You Love
Our Artesia General Hospital orthopedic team takes a multidisciplinary approach to your care. In addition to sports injuries, we treat a wide range of conditions including degenerative arthritis, stroke contractures and musculoskeletal trauma.
Movement and good health are some of life’s most precious gifts and we believe that everyone deserves to live the life they love.