Understanding and Managing Musculoskeletal Injury

Written By Brieanna Seefeldt

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Frequently asked questions

When should I try conservative treatment before considering other options?

Most musculoskeletal injuries improve with conservative treatment over 4–12 weeks, depending on the severity and type of injury. Conservative management often includes:

  • Physical therapy

  • Rest and activity modification

  • Ice/heat

  • RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

  • Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)

  • Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)

  • Acupuncture/dry needling

Many mild sprains, strains, tendonitis injuries, and overuse conditions improve during this timeframe. However, recovery varies based on age, injury severity, activity level, and overall health.

When should imaging be considered?

Imaging may be recommended when:

  • Symptoms persist despite conservative treatment

  • A fracture or major structural injury is suspected

  • There is significant weakness or instability

  • Surgical planning may be needed

Common imaging studies include:

  • X-rays → best for bones, arthritis, fractures

  • Ultrasound → best for tendons, muscles, dynamic injuries

  • MRI → best for spine, joints, ligaments, cartilage, tendons and disc/nerve evaluation

Does every musculoskeletal injury require surgery?

No. Most musculoskeletal injuries improve without surgery. Orthopedic surgery is generally reserved for:

  • Significant structural injuries

  • Failed conservative treatment

  • Persistent pain or instability

  • Fractures or tendon/ligament tears requiring repair

The goal is usually to start with the least invasive treatment appropriate for the injury. Even a “bad disc”, arthritis or severe pain can heal in time!

Who performs minimally invasive or regenerative treatments?

Minimally invasive and regenerative musculoskeletal treatments are commonly performed by:

  • Sports medicine physicians

  • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians

  • Orthopedic Surgeons

  • Pain management specialists

These providers may use image guidance, such as ultrasound, to improve precision and safety during injections or procedures.

What are warning signs that I should seek medical attention sooner?

You should contact a healthcare provider promptly if you experience:

  • Severe swelling or deformity

  • Inability to bear weight or use the limb

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Weakness or loss of function

  • Persistent pain that does not improve

  • Locking or instability of a joint

  • Fever, redness, or warmth around a joint

  • Sudden “pop” followed by weakness or bruising

  • Night pain or unexplained worsening symptoms

These symptoms may indicate fractures, tendon ruptures, nerve involvement, infections, or significant ligament injuries.

How do I know when I need surgery or need to see and Orthopedic specialist?

Many patients progress through these stages of care before surgery is considered (or covered by insurance):

  1. Conservative Management

    • Rest, bracing, physical therapy, OMT, medications, activity modification

  2. Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments

    • Cortisone injections

    • PRP injections

    • Shockwave therapy

    • Guided rehabilitation programs

  3. Imaging & Specialist Evaluation

    • X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI

    • Evaluation of persistent symptoms or structural injury

  4. Orthopedic Surgery Consultation

    • Considered when symptoms persist, function declines, or significant structural damage is identified on imaging

Can I continue exercising during recovery?

In many cases, yes, but activity often needs to be modified. Low-impact movement and guided rehabilitation can help maintain strength and mobility while reducing stress on the injured area. Your healthcare provider or physical therapist can help determine safe activity levels. Never Skip Rest!

Who should I see first?

The most efficient care starts with a good medical evaluation and referral to conservative treatment:

  • Primary care or sports medicine physicians

  • Osteopathic physicians (D.O.s) performing hands on treatments called OMT or OMM

  • Physical therapists

  • Chiropractors

  • Acupuncturists

  • Pain management specialists

Treatment is individualized based on symptoms, goals, activity level, and injury severity.

Have questions? Need help?

We are here to guide you through this. Reach out today!

Brieanna Seefeldt
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