The WMSD Organization has researched many different types of remedies commonly prescribed or advised for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders; everything from gin soaked raisins to copper bracelets (neither have any medical merit and although they might work for some people, there is no scientific evidence to suggest they are safe or effective for people with musculoskeletal disorders).

Many remedies are unproven and unsafe. You should consult with a doctor before trying a specific treatment option as only a doctor can take a complete medical history and advise accordingly. Listed below are some of the more common treatment options that your doctor may prescribe.

We have more information on specific treatments. If you would like to know if a specific treatment has merit among the medical community, call us at 401-762-6116.

Depending on the type of musculoskeletal disorder you have, treatment may include:

• Medication - can be dangerous if not taken under the advice of a doctor (even includes over-the-counter medications).
• Physical or Occupational Therapy (there are many different treatment methods PT's or OT's may use and may vary from patient to patient)
• Acupuncture (a recent study suggested that it may be helpful for people with wmsd's)
• Spinal Manipulation
• Nutritional Supplements (many people with musculoskeletal disorders are deficient in vitamin C, D, E, calcium, beta carotene, and folate)
• Topical Analgesics
• Exercise (low impact, such as swimming or walkingis typically recommended)
• Massage Therapy
• Weight Management (Losing just 10 pounds can reduce the force on joints by 60 pounds.)
• Steroid Injections
• Splinting (Can cause more harm than good if used incorrectly.)
• Surgery
• Patient Education (Research shows that patient education can actually help improve symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders.)
• Stress Management
• Nutrition Management
• Ergonomics, Joint Protection Principles and Body Mechanics Awareness (Research indicates that people with musculoskeletal disorders may benefit from this type of education, since the inflammation associated with musculoskeletal disorders may contribute to other, repetitive motion injuries.)
• Alternative Treatments (there are many supplements, such as glucosamine sulfate, which show promise in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders; while other treatments such as bee stings are more folklore than truth. Although some alternative supplements/treatments may help some people, many of them arre not clinically proven and in some cases may even be harmful or unsafe.)

*Check with your doctor before taking any supplements as they can interfere with over-the-counter and prescription medications. Only a doctor can take a complete medical history to determine what is advisable for you.

Call 401-762-6116 for more information