Dealing with painful bones or joints can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to interfere with your life. And it doesn’t have to mean surgery.
At the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM), we offer a full range of non-invasive options that can help effectively manage or even cure your pain. These treatments are usually quick, easy, virtually painless and involve little to no downtime.
One of our board-certified orthopedic specialists will work with you to find the best treatment for your specific condition. If needed, we also perform a full range of orthopedic procedures, including our joint replacement, using the most minimally invasive techniques available for less pain and faster recovery.
Therapy Services
At OICM, one of our licensed physical therapists can design a regimen that reduces your pain while also strengthening the key muscles that affect your joint. Your therapist can work with you short or long-term to make sure you’re doing specific exercises that increase your mobility and decrease your pain. Common therapy methods include bodyweight and aquatic exercises.
Your physical therapist may also apply ice and heat to your painful areas. Or, they make work alongside your treatment team to suggest ultrasound therapy or other procedures that can increase blood flow to the skin, helping to reduce pain.
Injections
Injections of substances like may be used to lubricate the joint, which reduces pain and improves mobility. These injections are administered in-office, making it one of the quickest and most convenient options.
Medication
Medication, including oral pain relievers and topical creams with the numbing agent lidocaine or bupivacaine, may help control your joint pain. Your provider will work with you to ensure you find the right prescriptions for your individual case to limit side effects and avoid drug interactions if you are taking other medications.
Cortisone Shots
Your provider might also recommend a steroid injection to reduce the inflammation (or swelling) of your joint.
The steroids are injected at the site of inflammation, and usually work to relieve pain within a few days and last several weeks.
Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home
Best of all, it’s all offered at locations near where you live and work – so you never have to travel far to find the world-class care you need:
- Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
- Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
- Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine