Ask Your Doctor...

Q: I’m tired of hurting, but I really don’t want to take time out for surgery. Is there any way to avoid it?

A: Getting you back to a fully functioning, pain-free life is OrthoOklahoma’s top priority. Your team will fully explore your specific condition then discuss all of the treatment options with you. OrthoOklahoma offers many non-surgical treatments options that are quite effective. Although surgery is always a last resort, today’s advancements make many surgeries outpatient with recovery time minimal.

Q: I play a sport and need to return as soon as possible. How quickly can I resume activity?

A: Many on your OrthoOklahoma team are former athletes themselves. Your physicians understand your desire to get back to your beloved sport. While everyone’s goal is to get you back to normal activities quickly, you will only be your best when your body is fully healed and healthy. That day varies from patient to patient and depends on your body’s response to treatment.

In some cases, you will want to take advantage of OrthoOklahoma’s onsite physical therapy to expedite strengthening and healing. Trust one team to treat your condition – from injury onset to full recovery.

Q: How will I know what to do after surgery?

A: Heading home after surgery can be scary for you, as a patient, and for your loved ones who will be caring for you.  Breathe a sigh of relief knowing that your OrthoOklahoma physician will discuss post-surgery care with you prior to surgery, after surgery and send you home with a list of instructions. If you have any questions along the way, always feel free to call.

Q: What will my rehabilitation process be like?

A: Your condition or injury is unique to your body, so your rehabilitation will also be unique to you. Your bone and joint team will discuss the best treatment for you.  That may include medication, rest, exercise or physical therapy.  In the event that physical therapy is needed, benefit from OrthoOklahoma’s onsite, state-of-the-art physical therapy. Utilizing the most advanced rehabilitation equipment, highly trained physical therapists and aquatic therapy, you’ll enjoy faster healing and better results.

Q: I’ve been told that I will benefit from aquatic therapy. What if I can’t swim?

A: No problem! You won't need to be able to swim. The pool is shallow and you'll be able to touch a foot to the floor and/or an arm to the side any time you feel the need. You'll also have close supervision of physical therapy team members. Aquatic therapy sessions are one-on-one with your therapist.

Q: Is there a way to do aquatic therapy and avoid others seeing me in a swimsuit?

A: Relax a bit knowing your OrthoOklahoma rehab is designed with your comfort in mind. You can select attire that's right for your particular therapy and you will have privacy as well. The aquatic therapy pool is in its own private room with a door used only for people working with you on your rehabilitation. The water temperature is kept at a comfortable, heated level during your entire therapy session.

Q: Do I need a referral from a general practitioner?

A: No, you do not need a referral. If you are using insurance, most providers do not require a referral prior to seeing a bone and joint specialist. If you are unsure whether your insurance requires a referral, you may want to contact your provider or feel free to call us with questions or to make an appointment at 405.707.0900.