Everyone’s lifestyles changed when the pandemic hit – even the way in which we visited our doctors changed, as in-person visits morphed to virtual visits to keep everyone safe from the coronavirus.
Regardless of circumstances, though, medical technology keeps moving forward at breakneck speed. Let’s talk about some of the amazing trends in orthopedics that are steadily gaining traction, and where you can go in Central Maryland for outstanding orthopedic care.
Digital Tools
An increasing number of software-based tools are being used in orthopedics for diagnosis, surgery, and even clinical analysis. For instance, while film X-rays used to require extensive chemical processing and production, digital X-rays now produce results within minutes.
As technology advances, healthcare becomes more convenient, efficient, accurate, and cost-effective.
Virtual Orthopedic Visits and Physical Therapy
More and more medical providers are now offering online-based visits to ensure their patients get the care they need while still maintaining safety and comfort levels for everyone involved. A telehealth navigation platform can help a healthcare provider to remotely conduct telehealth medical visits and physical therapy sessions.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation used to require patients and therapists to meet face-to-face. However, patients can now receive physical therapy virtually via their phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.
Advanced Imaging Technology
AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality) are technologies that will surely help in performing more efficient and precise surgeries. Through the use of this technology, medical students will be able to gain firsthand experience without having to enter a live operating room.
Orthopedic Monitoring Devices
Wearables like smart bands have been gaining much attention lately in the medical industry. They can be of particular help in sports medicine as they can monitor heart rates, check burned calories, and record steps.
The advanced smart wearables even feature stress tracking and performance examination. All of the data from these wearables can help orthopedic doctors determine diagnoses or perform assessments.
3D Printing Technologies
As the demand for orthopedic services increases, demand for orthopedic equipment and prosthetics also rises. However, manufacturing and importing have been running into roadblocks, and one answer to this problem is 3D printing of orthopedic devices. Instead of importing devices from abroad, healthcare companies can make custom devices locally.
Enhanced Nonsurgical Orthopedic Treatment Methods
Regenerative treatments have been a hot topic in virtually every field of medicine in recent decades. PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections and stem cell therapy are popular regenerative options in orthopedics. For example, PRP has been shown to be particularly effective in tamping down knee pain.
Orthopedic Physicians in Jessup, Maryland
The medical team at the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland always keeps up with the latest and best orthopedic treatments. We will work with you to determine the best and most effective nonsurgical or surgical treatment in your case.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call our friendly staff today by calling us at (410) 644-1880 or (855) 4MD-BONE (463-2663). You can also fill out our online form now. We look forward to helping you find your orthopedic solution!
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