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Providers
Mark Grossnickle, MD
Brett Hunter, MD
Joshua Snyder, MD
Michelle Simonsson, PA
Location
Greeley Medical Clinic, PC
1900 16th Street
Greeley, CO 80631
To Make an Appointment
(970) 350-2427
Fax: (970) 350-2421
Location
Medical Clinic at Centerra, PC
2500 Rocky Mountain Avenue
North Medical Office Building
Loveland, CO 80538
To Make an Appointment
(970) 203-7100
Fax: (970) 203-7105
Billing Questions
(970) 353-1551
Main Number
(970) 353-1551 |
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Mark Grossnickle, MD; Brett Hunter, MD; and Joshua Snyder, MD.
| What is Orthopedics?
Orthopedics is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention of injuries and diseases of your body`s musculoskeletal system. This system includes your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.
What kind of knowledge and training does an orthopedist have?
Your orthopedist is a medical doctor with extensive training in the proper diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. He/she has completed up to 14 years of education. This includes four years in a college or university, four years of study in medical school, five years in a residency program and one optional year of specialized education. In addition, all orthopedic surgeons participate in continuing medical education and ongoing training in new and up-to-date treatments every year.
Orthopedic Statistics (according to the AAOS Department of Research and Scientific Affairs):
- Injuries to the musculoskeletal system or conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis rank number one in visits to physicians` offices.
- One in seven Americans has a musculoskeletal impairment.
- Back or spine injuries are the most prevalent musculoskeletal impairments.
- More than 15.3 million visits were made to physicians` offices due to back problems in 1999.
- Musculoskeletal disorders cost the US $254 billion every year.
- Sprains or dislocations and fractures account for almost one-half of all musculoskeletal injuries.
What is involved in an orthopedic examination?
The orthopedist reviews the patient`s health history, completes a personal interview and physical examination. Diagnostic tests such as blood tests and x-rays may be ordered. Further testing, such as computerized x-rays or MRI scans, may also be necessary.
What kind of treatment does an orthopedist prescribe?
The treatment is individually recommended based on the orthopedic examination and test results. The treatment may be as simple as advice on activities or may involve prescribing medication and possibly physical therapy. Other conditions are best treated with casts and splints. Surgical intervention may also be recommended. The surgery may be an out-patient arthroscopic procedure, a minimally invasive spinal procedure, or a more major reconstructive operation. All treatment options should be discussed with patients during their office visits.
Click here to learn about Minimally Invasive Surgery and how it might benefit you.
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