Orthopedics

Physiatry

Many patients find relief from pain through physical medical rehabilitation performed by a physiatrist – a doctor skilled in the diagnosis of pain and the treatment of spinal and musculoskeletal disorders without surgery or pain medications. At Hunterdon Medical Center we offer several treatment options while also seeking to solve the underlying sources of pain.

Center for Pain Management

Patients are referred to the pain center by their primary care physician, neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon after other treatment modalities have been tried. Physical therapy is recommended prior to being considered for injections. Most pain conditions are best managed when combined with physical therapy or an exercise plan.

Available treatment options:

• Injections
• Epidural
• SI joint
• Intercostal
• Hip
• Trigger point
• Facet joint injections
• Sympathetic blocks
• Ilioinguinal blocks
• Spinal stimulators for radiating pain
• Peripheral stimulators for non-radiating back pain
• Intrathecal pumps
• Rhizotomy
• Reiki is now being offered in conjunction with an office visit or treatment.

Our Wellness Approach

Joint replacement surgery may be necessary after non-surgical options have been exhausted for chronic conditions of the bones and joints. Our team of physicians, dietitians, nurses, and physical and occupational  therapists are dedicated to all aspects of your care before, during, and after surgery. 

At the Center for Bone and Joint Health, we offer a unique wellness approach. Our focus is on getting you back to a normal quality of life weeks sooner than with traditional approaches.

Our surgeons use advanced minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. For you that means – smaller incisions, less cutting of muscles and tendons, less post-operative pain, faster recovery, and improved strength.

After all non-surgical options have been exhausted for chronic conditions of the bones and joints, it may be necessary to proceed with surgery. Our specialists are board-certified and fellowship-trained across all musculoskeletal disciplines. They have the technology and resources needed to examine, diagnose, and treat all bone and joint problems. Each specialist is committed to building a relationship with you and offering an individualized treatment plan.

Depending on the procedure, our surgeons have the flexibility to schedule your surgery at either Hunterdon Medical Center or Hunterdon Center for Surgery.

Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

If you and your doctor determine that it is time for joint replacement, our wellness approach gets you back to a normal quality of life weeks sooner than with traditional approaches. Our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. For you, that means smaller incisions, less cutting of muscles and tendons, less post-operative pain, faster recovery, and improved strength.

Typically joint replacement surgery is a one or two night stay in the hospital, but if the surgeon feels it is appropriate, a same day total joint replacement surgery may be an option. Upon discharge from the hospital, we offer outpatient physical therapy at several locations for your convenience.  If in home physical therapy is necessary we offer services through Hunterdon Home Health.  If you live a long distance from Hunterdon County we will assist you in finding accommodations close to home. In some cases, a short stay in a local in-patient rehabilitation facility is necessary. We will make sure your discharge needs are met and our staff will make all arrangements.

Will Joint Replacement be Painful?

Throughout the entire joint replacement process, you are a partner with the medical staff in managing pain to expedite rehabilitation. With the use of effective pain management, physical therapy will begin as early as the day of surgery. Most joint replacement patients develop personal goals prior to surgery and are encouraged to return to normal activity as quickly as possible.

The Joint Replacement Care Unit at Hunterdon Medical Center are private rooms with a dedicated team of professionals who help prepare patients for and recovering from joint replacement surgery. During your stay, you will have the option to participate in various holistic therapies. These services are offered to relieve anxiety, assist with pain control, and support healing.

Prior to surgery, the Center for Bone and Joint Health offers a patient education class to all joint replacement patients and the people who will support them after surgery. In the class you will learn about the surgical process and what you should expect before, during your hospital stay, after surgery, and when you return home. You will receive a Patient Guidebook from your surgeon's office and learn tips on preparing your home and exercises that you should perform prior to surgery to improve your rehabilitation. Throughout the process, you will have an active role in managing your pain and recovery and minimizing side effects.  Sarah Brenly the Orthopedic Nurse Navigator will be available as your resource to assist you along every step of the process before, during your hospital stay, and after you are discharged home.

Joint Replacement Education Videos