Orthopedic trauma: office management of major joint injury

Orthopedic injuries are common reasons for visits to primary care physicians. Careful history and physical examination with intelligent use of imaging technology will arrive at the correct diagnosis in most patients. Many conditions may be definitively managed by the office internist. Others maybe initially stabilized and referred to orthopedic surgeons for definitive care. Nondisplaced fractures, tendon injuries, sprains, and overuse syndromes are entities within the purview of the primary care physician. Familiarity and confidence with diagnosis and management of these conditions in the office is optimal for the care of the adult patient.