Primary Orthopedic Care

Primary Orthopedic Care 2nd Edition offers the most practical approach to common orthopaedic disorders in the primary care setting. The table of contents is organized from upper to lower extremities and coverage begins with symptoms, not a diagnosis. Ten chapters cover nine major orthopaedic areas and injections for musculoskeletal disorders. Presentation and history are the most crucial diagnostic tools, and the text appropriately devotes a section to them in each orthopaedic area. In addition, anatomy and physiology, examination, diagnosis (including imaging modalities) and treatment are consistently covered in each region. An emphasis on differential diagnosis, with clear cautions when referral is warranted (Red Flags), make this a clear guide for nurse practitioners practicing in primary care.

The advanced practice provider needs specific skills in order to bill intra-articular corticosteroid injections, (previously in the domain of a primary care physician), and the book includes this important information. The advanced practice provider also treats recreational and sports injuries, and these injuries are addressed within each orthopaedic area.

A unique appendix entitled Keys to Common Diagnoses offers a quick signs & symptoms reference guide with corresponding text pages for further explanation. This information allows the practitioner to look up diagnoses when signs and symptoms are known instead of having to know the diagnosis before being able to locate the appropriate section.