Author: Aptiva Health Editorial Team

What is orthopedics? Orthopedics (say “or-tho-PEE-dics”) is the branch of medicine that cares for your musculoskeletal system — the bones, joints, ligaments (bands that connect bone to bone), tendons (bands that connect muscle to bone), and muscles that let you move. An orthopedic provider can be a surgeon, but most orthopedic care does not involve…

What is spine care? Spine care focuses on the column of bones (vertebrae), discs (the cushions between them), nerves, and muscles that run from your neck to your lower back. Aptiva’s Spine Department brings together spine surgeons, pain specialists, and rehabilitation providers who emphasize conservative treatment first. Common conditions Herniated disc — when a spinal…

What is sports medicine? Sports medicine focuses on injuries related to movement and exercise, and on helping you return to activity safely. You do not have to be a competitive athlete — this care is for anyone who is active, including “weekend warriors.” Common conditions Sprains (stretched or torn ligaments) and strains (stretched or torn…

What is physical therapy? Physical therapy is treatment that helps your body move and function better. A licensed physical therapist (PT) designs a plan of exercises and hands-on care for your specific problem. PT is often one of the first steps in treating pain and injuries because it can help you avoid more invasive care.…

What is interventional pain management? “Interventional” means using procedures rather than medication alone. This specialty uses minimally invasive, image-guided techniques to locate and treat the source of pain — not just mask it. The goal is to lower pain enough to move, work, and take part in physical therapy. Common conditions Long-lasting neck and back…

What is a concussion? A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by the brain moving inside the skull. It changes the way the brain works for a time, but usually does not show up on standard scans. You do not have to be hit on the head or lose consciousness to have…

What is mental wellness care? Mental wellness care includes talk therapy (psychotherapy), psychiatric care (which can include medication), and psychological and neuropsychological assessments. Aptiva’s approach is whole-person, considering medical, psychological, and environmental factors — including how a physical injury can affect mood, and how mental health can affect recovery. What it can help with Anxiety…

What is medical imaging? Medical imaging uses different technologies to create pictures of the inside of your body. These pictures help a provider confirm a diagnosis and plan treatment. Common types include: X-ray — a quick test that shows bones well; good for spotting fractures MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) — uses a strong magnet and…

What is immediate injury care? Immediate injury care provides walk-in evaluation and treatment for non-emergency injuries — the kinds of sprains, strains, and minor breaks that need prompt attention but are not life-threatening. It can be faster and more affordable than an emergency room for the right problems, and it connects you to specialists if…