Through Altru’s Level II Trauma Center, our fellowship-trained providers and orthopedic surgeons care for patients with emergency treatment needs for joint, limb and other skeletal injuries, including sports injuries. They are available 24/7 for emergency provider consult or direct care.
For injuries that are less severe, our team is often available for same-day appointments at Altru Orthopedics & Sports Medicine’ clinic. They work collaboratively with the orthopedic and sports medicine team to ensure all patient needs are met with expert care.
In addition to care in the clinic, emergency room and hospital, Altru’s trauma team can also provide follow-up care for those in more rural areas via telemedicine in certain situations.
Conditions Altru Treats
Specialists with Altru Orthopedics & Sports Medicine have a wealth of experience managing the complete spectrum of conditions affecting orthopedic health, including:
Sprains
A sprain occurs when a ligament, or tissue connecting a bone to a joint, is stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are among the most common types of sprains. Symptoms include bruising, compromised range of motion, pain and swelling. Treatment may include rest, compression, light exercise and physical therapy.
Strains
A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon—the tissue connecting muscle to bone—stretches or tears. Trauma from pulling or twisting quickly or over a sustained period of time can result in a strain.
Symptoms include decreased range of motion, muscle spasms, pain and swelling. Like a sprain, treatment may involve rest, ice, compression, gentle exercise or physical therapy.
Tears
A torn muscle, tendon or ligament, such as a torn rotator cuff or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), can cause symptoms including pain, swelling and weakness.
To diagnose a tear, your doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as MRI, ultrasound or X-rays. Treatment options include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, steroid injections or surgery to repair the tear.
Joint Dislocations
A joint dislocation occurs when two bones separate where they meet at a joint. Symptoms of a dislocation include bruising and swelling, numbness and tingling at the joint, pain, limited range of motion, and visual deformity. Dislocation should be treated by a medical professional.
Broken Bones
A broken bone occurs when too much pressure is put on a bone. Broken bones may occur as a result of trauma endured during situations, such as a car accident or direct blow associated with sports injury trauma.
A type of broken bone known as a stress fracture may occur as a result of repetitive activities, such as running, which can cause a stress fracture in areas of the body such as the ankle or foot.
Symptoms of a broken bone include acute pain, bruising, deformity, limited range of motion and numbness. Like a dislocated joint, a broken bone is a medical emergency that should be treated by an orthopedic professional.
If you have experienced an injury that is severe, call 911 or visit Altru’s Emergency Room. If your pain is tolerable, call 701.732.7700 or use MyChart to schedule an appointment.
