For many patients, orthopedic care is essential for getting rid of chronic pain and improving one's quality of life. However, some patients make inaccurate assumptions about orthopedic care that cause them to overlook the treatment that they need.  

The following are six things that you shouldn't assume when it comes to orthopedic care. 

Only athletes require orthopedic care.

Orthopedic care is often associated with athletes. Athletes often end up with injuries requiring orthopedic care because athletic activity can strain their muscles and bones. However, orthopedic care isn't only for athletes. You could benefit from orthopedic care for a muscle strain or fractured bone even if you are not an athlete.

Only elderly individuals require orthopedic care.

Orthopedic care is also often associated with the elderly since older patients may have weaker bones and muscles that are more susceptible to injury. Patients of all ages can find themselves in need of orthopedic care. In fact, even children can need orthopedic care if they suffer from conditions like flat feet or developmental hip dysplasia. 

Orthopedic care always involves surgery.

Orthopedic care is also associated with surgery in particular. Orthopedic surgery is commonly used to treat conditions like ACL tears and rotator cuff injuries. Yet there are many orthopedic care treatment methods available in addition to surgery. Orthopedic conditions can also be treated with medication, physical therapy, and more. 

Orthopedic care is painful.

Physical therapy is a common type of orthopedic treatment. Some patients think that going through physical therapy will be painful or uncomfortable if they're already suffering from pain because of their condition. Fortunately, physical therapy should never be painful. If you experience any pain during physical therapy, you should let your physical therapist know right away. 

Orthopedic care won't make a big difference for those suffering from chronic pain.

Patients who have been suffering from chronic pain for a while sometimes feel pessimistic about their treatment prospects. This causes them to doubt the potential success of orthopedic care. Patients should know that orthopedic care can and does make a big difference for patients living with chronic pain. That's why it's so important for patients to be proactive by pursuing treatment. 

Patients simply have to live with chronic pain as they get older.

Getting older shouldn't be painful. Older patients should never forego orthopedic care under the assumption that dealing with pain is a normal part of life for someone their age. Orthopedic care can help stop pain caused by muscle and bone conditions for patients of all ages. 

Contact a local orthopedic service, such as South Shore Health, to learn more.