
Howard Marans MD: 7 Tips to Prepare for Your Appointment
Dr. Howard Marans specializes in sports medicine, orthopedic surgery in Fountain Valley, California.
Prepare for Your Appointment
That anxious moment in the exam room as you wait for the doctor to arrive is not the moment to begin preparing for your appointment. You have just 15 to 30 minutes with that doctor. To make the most of your time together—and to ensure you get the care you need—take a few minutes now to learn what you can do to prepare for your next appointment. Here are six tips to get you started.
1. Gather the Right Information
Our mission is not only to guide you to the right doctor, but to help you get the most out of your doctor visits. The key to a successful appointment is communication. You need to communicate your needs, understand your diagnosis, and discuss your treatment options. Before you go, prepare ahead of time with Health grades Health Coaches, At Your Appointment Guides, and in-depth healthcare information.
2. Identify Your Symptoms
The more accurately and completely you can describe your symptoms, the more likely it is that your doctor can identify your health problem and prescribe an effective course of treatment. Before the appointment, write down all your symptoms. Describe your symptoms in plain language, noting when they started and whether they get worse at certain times of day or in certain situations. Also write a brief outline of your medical history, and be sure to list all the medications you’re currently taking.
3. Research Your Symptoms
Once you’ve identified your symptoms, research them. The more you can learn about the possible causes of your symptoms—and what your treatment options may be—the better equipped you’ll be to discuss your care with your doctor and understand his or her instructions. You can find the resources you need to research your health problems—or to learn how to stay healthy—in our Right Care Centers.
4. Take a Health Assessment
Our Health Coaches ask you a series of questions about a particular condition or disease. We offer Health Coaches for the most common conditions and diseases including childhood ADHD, depression, diabetes, knee pain, and multiple sclerosis. Each is a self-guided health interview that helps you find out if you might suffer from the condition, evaluate your treatment if you’ve already been diagnosed, and get a personalized action plan, including coping tips.
5. Lead the Conversation with Your Doctor
Sometimes it’s difficult to “find your voice” at the doctor’s office. Our At Your Appointment Guides provide you with a series of talking points and questions to ask. We have guides for common conditions like back pain; rare conditions like psoriasis; and situations that require a doctor’s care like birth control. At Your Appointment Guides contain general visit questions as well as specific questions about your symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and medications. You can even print them out!
6. Understand Your Procedure
If you’re likely to need a medical procedure—whether surgery or a diagnostic test, such as a colonoscopy or mammogram—learn all you can about the procedure before your visit so you’ll understand your options and be able to discuss them intelligently. Health grades offers comprehensive articles, slideshows and videos for many common procedures that explain the purpose of the procedure, how it’s performed, the risks involved and what you’ll need to do to prepare for it.
7. Make the Most of Your Next Appointment
Your relationship with your doctor is a partnership. The better able you are to communicate your needs and understand your options, the more productive your appointment will be and the more likely you are to get the treatment you need. The time you have with your doctor is all too brief. A little preparation will help you make the most of your next appointment.

Who is the Best Doctor For Carpal Tunnel in Orange County? - Dr Howard Marans, MD
Carpal tunnel affects thousands of people each year. Repetitive hand motion is the leading cause for carpal tunnel syndrome. Sufferers will experience pain, weakness, and numbness in the hands and wrists. The symptoms can greatly limit movement creating a negative impact on daily activities. As the symptoms progress, searching for the best doctor for carpal tunnel should be a priority.
Symptoms
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome vary with each individual. If at any point the symptoms include loss of feeling in the arm, medical attention should be sought immediately. Various other symptoms are an indicator that it’s time to find a doctor for carpal tunnel.
- A slow progression of loss of feeling in hands or fingers
- The inability to pinch the thumb and index finger together
- A limited range of motion in the thumb, including the lack of strength
- Pain in the hands and wrists which can lead to limitation in daily work and normal activities
- The patient will accidentally start dropping objects due to lack of feeling in the hand and wrist
Best Doctor for Carpal Tunnel
Only a specialized health care professional can diagnose a person with carpal tunnel. Finding the best doctor for carpal tunnel syndrome may require research.
- Ask for referrals from family members and friends. Carpal tunnel is a common ailment. While gathering names, one well-qualified doctor will be mentioned frequently.
- Look for a doctor who has experience in treating carpal tunnel syndrome. An experienced doctor will have a well-established, consistent practice.
- Search for reviews. Highly qualified doctors will have positive online reviews.
Diagnosis
After confirming an appointment, the next step will be the diagnosis of the condition. The doctor should begin with a complete medical history and a discussion of symptoms. If the doctor believes carpal tunnel is the most likely condition, tests will begin.
- X-rays and MRI’s can be administered to determine if the symptoms are arthritic related.
- The Tinel’s test can be performed. The Tinel’s test is formed by gently tapping the median nerve in the wrist area. The tap should produce a tingling awareness in the finger regions.
- A compression test can be used. The test involves bending the wrist in a downward movement. A tingling feeling may result after holding the thumb near the forearm.
Depending on the severity of the case, other tests can be ordered. A proper diagnosis is essential for treatment options.
Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatments
If the symptoms are not severe, surgery may be avoided or temporarily delayed. The non-surgical options are usually part of the treatment program.
- Over the counter and prescribed medications may be administered.
- A wrist splint may be prescribed to wear at night. The splint will help in keeping the wrist straight.
- Cortisone or other steroid injections may be administered to reduce the inflamed area.
- Physical therapy exercises may be used to improve movement.
When non-surgical options cannot help, surgery will be the next step in the treatment process. Carpal tunnel surgery involves elevating pressure on the nerves by increasing the size of the tunnel, enabling the tendons to work properly.
Only a complete, accurate diagnosis can produce an optimal outcome for carpal tunnel syndrome. Dr. Howard Marans is the best doctor for carpal tunnel in Orange County. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Dr Howard Marans: Huntington Beach, CA – Top Reviewed Orthopedic Surgeons
The best orthopedic surgeons of Huntington Beach can provide outstanding treatment for any musculoskeletal system disease or injury. The specialized orthopedic surgeon can provide guidance from the initial consultation to the extensive surgery options. The decision to go see an orthopedic surgeon can help in the relief of pain in the knees, ankles, hips, shoulders, hands, or wrists.
Best Reviewed Orthopedic Surgeons in Huntingtonsports-medicine-ca Beach
The way to find the best orthopedic surgeons of Huntington Beach is through referrals, reviews, and through your own experience during a consultation.
Start by asking around. Talk to several people who may have had similar conditions. In most cases, family, friends, or neighbors have gone to the same surgeon with outstanding results. Each person may have specific reasons for liking a particular surgeon.
The Internet can be a great resource for individuals looking for information on doctors and surgeons in a particular field. Numerous online databases have reviews about doctors in every area of care. Take the time to read online reviews about orthopedic surgeons of the Huntington Beach area. The reviews can aid in making a final decision.
Experience
An experienced orthopedic surgeon will have been providing consistent care in one location for a number of years. If the surgeon has been in the area for a long period of time, the practice will reflect the care and treatment of patients. A thriving practice is an indication of a well-reviewed surgeon.
Office Consultation
The first initial contact with the orthopedic surgeon can determine if the doctor is the right choice. New patients want to feel comfortable while visiting the doctor’s office.
- A courteous and welcoming support staff can help a patient feel more relaxed while addressing health care concerns.
- The doctor can see the patient in a timely manner, especially if a recent injury has caused the need for an orthopedic surgeon. No one wants to be in pain for an extended period of time.
- Complete medical history should be recorded. A comprehensive history can aid in providing the best treatment possible.
- Various treatment options should be discussed based on medical history. The options should address both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
- Tests should be administered to determine the right course of individualized treatment.
- Treatment programs should begin immediately to minimize pain of the inflicted area.
- The surgeon should be willing to address all concerns and answer questions from the first consultation through the entire treatment process. Patients want to be reassured the choice they’ve made is best for their health.
Make sure your surgeon can pass these simple tests. Dr. Howard Marans will work with a new patient to minimize pain and maximize treatment options. His main concern is getting a patient back to a normal active lifestyle to promote daily living as quickly ans safely as possible. Dr. Marans has been successfully treating patients with a variety of different conditions for decades, and would be happy to meet with you about what treatment would be best for you. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Howard Marans MD: Huntington Beach Orthopedic Sports Medicine
Dr. Howard Marans Being at their top physical performance, athletes are a special group of individuals. After an injury, seeking out the best sports medicine doctor in Huntington Beach is a critical step in the healing process.
Sports Medicine in Huntington Beach
A sports medicine doctor concentrates on the needs of both the professional and amateur athlete. Every sports participant understands minor aches and pains are just part of the fitness training game. When pain does not subside, ignoring the issue will create further irreversible damage to the body.
Why Visit a Sports Medicine Doctor?
Receiving specialized training, a sports medicine doctor will be able to focus on an athlete’s musculoskeletal issues relating physical fitness. The sports medicine specialist receives training beyond primary care physician qualifications. The extra education provides the patient with the best possible care relating to the human body’s movement, physical activity, and injury prevention.
With specialized training, a sports medicine doctor will be able to prescribe a precise treatment program for injury recovery. Treatment approaches range from: Physical Therapy to Arthoscopic Surgery. The treatment program depends on individualized diagnosis and medical needs.
How to Find a Sports Medicine Specialist?
One of the best ways to be directed to an orthopedic specialists or sports medicine doctor is by a referral from a primary care physician. The referral from a primary care physician is indicative the doctor will understand the athlete’s needs for specialized care involving the musculoskeletal injury beyond basic treatment. Other ways to finding orthopedic specialists for sports injuries include:
- Contact health insurance representative for referrals within the care network.
- If an athlete picks a doctor out of the network, higher out of pocket costs may be added to the final medical expense.
- Ask for a referral from the team’s coach, teammates, athletic trainer or others who participate in similar sports activities.
- Ask friends, family members or others in the peer network.
- Utilize the Internet to research Huntington Beach area sports medicine specialists.
- Various medical review sites are available with patient entries on the doctors who provide the best care for athletes.
- Contact the American Medical Association or other professional organizations for a referrals and reviews.
Each step in finding the right sports medicine doctor will result in a variety of names. In most cases, one orthopedic specialist with a longstanding, consistent practice will stand out above the rest. In order to receive more information about the top choice, be prepared to ask questions during the first consultation.
Questions to Ask
The best sports medicine orthopedic doctor will take the time to answer each question with a detailed explanation.
- What credentials and experience does the doctor have involving the care of athletes?
- Does the specialist focus on non-surgical approaches as part of the treatment program?
- How many similar procedures are performed within a week or month?
- How long will the recovery process take?
Huntington Beach Sports Medicine Doctor
In the Huntington Beach area, Dr. Howard Marans will take the time to address all sports medicine questions. Experienced working with athletes at all levels, Dr. Howard Marans strives to get every patient back into their sport in a timely manner. For your sports injury rehabilitation, please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Howard Marans MD: Are All Knee Surgeries Covered By Insurance?
In some cases, the best way to treat a knee injury is with surgery. Many patients are anxious about surgery, not least because of the potential cost. Fortunately, it is possible to get knee surgeries covered by insurance in most cases, which helps keep patients’ costs down; in addition, getting necessary treatment now can go a long way towards minimizing future medical bills. Below, we will explore some basics about knee surgery in general and knee surgeries covered by insurance in particular.
When Knee Surgery is Necessary
In the majority of knee problems, knee surgery is not necessary. Physical therapy, medication, and other non-invasive methods can often resolve knee injuries without the need for invasive procedures. If non-surgical methods are ineffective or if the damage to the knee is extensive, then surgery may be necessary.
How Knee Surgery Works
Most knee surgeries can now be performed using arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive surgery in which only small incisions are made, and cameras are used to view the inside of the joint. Arthroscopic surgery is associated with shorter recovery times, a lower risk of side effects, and lower costs. In some cases, such as knee replacement surgery, it is still necessary to perform traditional open joint surgery.
Knee Surgeries Covered by Insurance
Regardless of the nature of the knee surgery, it should be possible to get knee surgeries covered by insurance. Your doctor will only recommend knee surgery if it is medically necessary, and health insurance covers medically necessary procedures. Thanks to the changes brought by the Affordable Care Act, even knee problems that existed before you were insured should be covered.
This means that the biggest factor that influences how much you pay out of pocket is your insurance policy. If you have a high deductible and copay, you may pay a large portion of the cost of surgery out of pocket, while patients with lower deductibles but higher premiums may pay very little. If you are not sure about how your insurance covers the procedure you need, you should contact your insurance provider for more information.
Financing Options
In cases where the patient’s out of pocket costs are still relatively high after insurance is applied, financing options are available to help spread the cost of treatment over a longer period of time. Your financing options include patient financing companies, health care or traditional credit cards, and loans or lines of credit. Your own preferences and your financial situation will determine which type of financing is right for you.
Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Howard Marans MD: ACL Surgery Recovery Timeline and Expectations
Repairing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) may only require a short time in the hospital or health care facility. In fact, most ACL surgery patients return home the same day of the procedure.
The ACL recovery timeline is a longer process. Listening to the doctor’s after-care procedures and expectations is vital for an optimal outcome. Depending on medical history, each person may have a different ACL recovery timeline.
During the first two weeks of the ACL recovery timeline, rest is the main priority to help in the healing process.
- Use crutches to help keep the pressure and full weight off from the newly repaired area.
- Keep leg elevated with the use of a pillow.
- Follow the doctor’s recommendations for exercises to help reduce the chances of blood clots or other negative issues.
- Use either over the counter or prescribed medication to help reduce pain and swelling.
The first two weeks are critical to the healing process. Keeping the entire incision area clean and dry will aid in fighting off infections or other serious health issues. Knowing when to call a health care professional after surgery is a must.
- Bleeding from the incisions will not cease and the bandages cannot contain the flow.
- A red streak or line appears around the incision
- The incision area is producing a discharge.
- The inflammation and swelling proceed down the leg into the calf area.
- The patient has a high fever.
- The pain does not subside with the prescribed medication.
If anything looks out of the ordinary, asking a health care professional will give a patient peace of mind and prevent any harmful consequences. Do not be afraid to ask questions concerning aftercare procedures for ACL reconstruction surgery.
Two to Six Weeks
After the initial resting period in the ACL recovery timeline, the next step is to slowly begin strengthening the area to restore full range of movement.
- Crutches should be no longer in use unless directed by the health care professional.
- Beginning to put full weight on the knee
- Slowly working toward full extension of the knee
- A knee brace may be prescribed to help restrict movement
- If comfortable, driving may be allowed.
- Physical therapy begins
Six Weeks to Six Months
After six weeks in the ACL recovery timeline, the patient will move toward returning to normal activities at a slow progression. By continuing to exercise and develop strength in the knee area, a full range of movement may be achieved.
- The area should be pain-free prior to returning to sports or an exercise routine.
- The orthopedic surgery will need to clear the patient prior to engaging in strenuous activities. Beginning too soon will damage the repair area.
- A brace may be suggested to help keep the knee safe.
ACL Surgery Recovery Timeline and Expectations
For premium results during the ACL surgery recovery timeline, listening to a top rated orthopedic specialist is critical. From the initial consultation through the entire recovery process, Dr. Howard Marans will guide each patient through the steps of the ACL recovery timeline to achieve each level of expectations in the healing process. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Dr Howard Marans: Are Sports Medicine Specialists Covered By Insurance?
Millions of people use a form health insurance to cover necessary medical expenses for both preventative and unexpected care. Each health insurance policy is different with various factors to consider when seeking treatment. As a participant in sports, the need for quality medical care from orthopedic sports specialists may be needed to return to the game or activity with the shortest amount of recovery time.
Health insurance coverage for a sports medicine specialist may require following specific guidelines as outlined in the policy. Speaking with the insurance representative or courteous medical staff will help determine what steps are necessary for successful coverage.
Referrals
Under some insurance policy guidelines, a referral from the primary care physician is required prior to visiting a sports medicine specialist. The referral is to verify the need for a specialist is a medical necessity. Under most circumstances, the primary care physician is the one who suggests a specialist is needed for optimal care. The primary care physician may arrange the appointment as the next step in the treatment process. Without verification, medical insurance may not pick up the costs of the initial doctor’s consultation.
Authorization
After the initial consultation is approved, further authorization may still be required for treatment. Most sports medicine specialist will have highly trained support staff to work with authorization requirements from insurance companies. Acquiring authorization will allow an athlete or sports participant to concentrate on the treatment program, including:
•Physical or occupational therapy to help restore strength back to an injured area
•Medical equipment, bracing, and other support aids to use during the healing process
•Diagnostic tests to achieve an accurate diagnosis to outline a treatment program approach
•Surgical procedures, joint replacement, open surgery or arthroscopy
The type of medical authorization needed for treatment will be different for each person. After a precise diagnosis, the treatment process may involve a combination of medical approaches to ensure the highest level of care.
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Deductibles and Co-Pays
Along with the referral and authorization process, an insurance policy may require a patient to cover deductibles and co-pays. Calling the insurance provider’s customer service
representative will provide an understanding of the amount of out of pocket expenses to expect when visiting a sports medicine specialist.
•The deductible is a percentage amount of the medical expenses a patient is required to pay until a specific deductible is met
•When a patient reaches the deductible, the medical insurance will pay the remaining amount
•Co-pays are a flat rate to be paid by the patient for medical procedures, prescription, appointments, and other relatable expenses
•Co-pays to a sports medicine specialist are usually low when other insurance guidelines are followed
Leading Sports Medicine Specialists
With a longstanding consistent practice, Dr. Howard Marans and his friendly staff understand all the various aspects relating to health insurance coverage. Dr. Howard Marans regularly works with numerous medical insurance carriers – including PPOs. The Doctor provides every patient with the highest level of treatment and care for a sports related injury without creating a burdening medical expense. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Howard Marans MD: 4 Questions to Ask When Choosing Between Knee Specialists
Dr. Howard Marans MD - Each year, millions of people of all ages seek medical treatment for common knee problems. The knee joint provides a wide range of motion which leaves the area vulnerable to a variety of injuries. Common knee injuries range from simple sprains to complex tears in the ligaments.
Knee Specialist
In most situations, the knee injury may be corrected with simple non-surgical treatments, including rest, pain medications, and therapeutic procedures such as physical therapy. Other complex injuries require the medical attention and expertise of knee specialists. When choosing between knee specialists, consider these four questions.
1. What are best reviews and recommendations among the knee specialists?
Seeking out treatment for a knee injury may seem like an overwhelming task. Start by getting recommendations and referrals from a variety of sources.
- Ask the primary care physician for a recommendation based on current medical needs.
- Ask family members and friends who have visited an orthopedic specialist.
- Consult the health care provider representative. If the knee specialists are not in the medical care network, the out of pocket costs may be higher.
- Use the Internet as a resource tool by checking online reviews and customers satisfaction rankings.
- Consult the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
2. What are their educational and certified credentials?
Do not be afraid to ask questions concerning their professional career. In most cases, the information is located on their office website or the hospital where the knee specialists are affiliated.
- Where did they go to school?
- What specialized training did they receive?
- Are they board certified?
- Have they received further training, discovering new techniques?
Most reputable knee specialists undergo extensive training in order to pass board certification for orthopedics. As a potential patient, finding out the type of training and schooling of the orthopedic doctors will add in narrowing down the search.
3. How long has the knee specialist been in practice?
An orthopedic knee specialist with consistent practice shows stability in the chosen medical field. When an orthopedic surgeon performs similar surgery on a consistent basis, there are fewer chances for errors and complications.
- How long has the doctor been at the same location?
- How many similar procedures are performed?
- What is the doctor’s hospital afflation?
- What is the success rate for the procedure?
4. Does the doctor give individualized attention?
When visiting a new doctor, anxieties and nervousness are two common reactions. Orthopedic knee specialists who make each patient feel at ease and comfortable is a vital component for quality care.
- Does the doctor listen carefully while explaining the medical condition?
- Does the doctor answer all questions and concerns?
- Does the doctor explain all the different options for receiving medical treatment?
- Does the doctor give a full explanation of the desired outcome for the procedure?
Feeling comfortable with treatment and the orthopedic knee expert is a must for an optimal outcome. When a person does not feel the doctor leaves up to the desired expectations, getting a second opinion is the next crucial step.
Choosing Between Knee Specialists
Common knee pain may be more than a simple sprain or ache from athletic training. Consulting knee specialists are the best way to return to an active, healthy lifestyle. Dr. Howard Marans will work with each patient to achieve this goal. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Howard Marans MD: Orange County’s Best Reviewed Sports Medicine Surgeon
Dr Howard Marans – Participating in sports can be done at the professional, collegiate, and recreational levels. Being part of a team is a rewarding experience both physically and emotionally. Working out with the team is a vital part of keeping yourself healthy and active. You strive for excellence at every step of the way. Being unable to participate in the sport you love due to an injury can leave you feeling frustrated. An Orange County sports medicine specialist can provide medical expertise and an innovative treatment program for a wide range of sports injuries.
Common Sports
When you are injured, you want an Orange County sports medicine specialists who can help you focus on healing. The goal is to get you back into peak athletic condition. From the professional athlete to the weekend player, the specialist will help you recover while showing you how to prevent further injuries.
Elbow Injuries
An elbow injury is consistent with those athletes who enjoy tennis and baseball. One of the most common forms of injuries is tennis elbow. The injury can be caused by improper technique or equipment. The repetitive motion of the arm while participating in golf, tennis, or pitching a baseball can contribute to different forms of elbow injuries, keeping you away from the sport you love.
Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries affect every day activities. Your feet bear all the weight of your body; any injury creates problems for your entire body. For example, if you tear or rupture your Achilles tendon while playing sports, the pain can be overwhelming. Other forms of injuries include shin splints, sprained or fractured ankle, peroneal tendon injury or arthritis.
Knee Injuries
If you twist your knee while playing your favorite sport, you can cause a joint to shift. The injury can result in an ACL injury, patella dislocation, meniscal tear, or other form of cartilage damage. The pain and swelling of the knee will interrupt your daily routine. Orange County sports medicine specialists can work with you to make a full recovery.
Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries can happen while participating in almost any of your favorite sports activities, including football, soccer, tennis, swimming, and baseball. While other injuries to the shoulder can happen from years of everyday motion. Injuries to the shoulder can disrupt your daily activities. A painful rotator cuff tear, tendinitis, or arthritic shoulder can create an unbearable amount of pain. Working with an Orange County sports medicine specialist can help you through your shoulder injury to get you back in the game or return to normal daily activities.
Top Orange County Sports Medicine Doctor
An Orange County sports medicine surgeon, Dr. Howard Marans is well known in Huntington Beach and the surrounding area. With 20 years consistent practice, Howard Marans MD can explain both the non-surgical and surgical treatments available for each new client. Dr. Marans’ primary goal is to get you back to the sport you love to play. If needed, he will go over the various surgical options for the patient’s particular condition to provide an optimal outcome. Dr. Marans welcomes PPO and will work with other insurance companies to give the best treatment available. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.

Howard Marans MD: Where to Go for Sports Medicine Help in Orange County
Orange County Sports Medicine
Every day, thousands of people participate in sports related activities on various levels. From amateur leagues to paid professionals, sports provide individuals with numerous health benefits, including physical activity, self-worth and a defense against diseases. Along with the health benefits, one of the main negative attributes is a higher risk of injury or other orthopedic related issues. Dr. Howard Marans is a leading Orange County sports medicine doctor who works in a timely manner to return an athlete back to the chosen, active lifestyle.
Understanding Athletes Needs
A person who engages in an active lifestyle by engaging in sports has different medical needs. Dr. Howard Marans understands and practices the concept that all athletes need to be treated on an individual basis. Individualized treatment helps to achieve an optimal outcome for current health issues and concerns.
- Athletes want to return to their chosen sports with the shortest amount of recovery time
- Athletes may experience injuries during extensive training routines
- Athletes desire to remain in top physical form even when injured
- Restoring range of movement back to the injured area is critical to sports participation
Non-Invasive Treatment Options
Dr. Marans begins each treatment program by determining an accurate diagnosis based on medical history, physical examination, and various testing methods. The Orange County sports medicine expert may begin a treatment program with non-invasive methods. In numerous cases, rest and education about how the body reacts to specific activities will reduce or eliminate the symptoms. Other non-invasive treatment methods may include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs may be over the counter or prescribed to help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.
- The use of a brace, sling, or other support aid to keep the injured area immobilized.
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises to help the injured area slowly go back to a normal state. The exercises will improve strength and flexibility while promoting the overall healing process.
- Cold and heat packs may be used separately or by altering between the two. In general, the packs are placed on the injured area for 20 minutes every two to three hours or as directed by the health care professional.
Surgery
When all other options have been exhausted or the damage is too severe, surgery may be needed to restore function. Under most circumstances, surgery may fall into one of two categories.
- Arthroscopy is performed by making small incisions around the injured area to repair damage with the use of small surgical instruments. Arthroscopy is less invasive with a shorter amount of recovery time.
- Open surgery requires the Orange County sports medicine expert to make a larger incision. Open surgery allows the orthopedic surgeon to gain direct access of the injury. The process may be more extensive requiring a hospital stay and a longer require time.
Sports Medicine Orange County
Each individual will have different concerns and questions involving all the different type of treatment options available. Dr. Howard Marans, an Orange County sports medicine expert understands the anxieties involving a sports injury and the desire to return to an active lifestyle in the shortest amount of recovery time. To have all questions and concerns addressed, please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.
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