Orthopedic conditions affect bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These issues may arise from injury, wear and tear, or underlying health problems. While some conditions develop gradually, others occur suddenly and may require immediate attention. Addressing orthopedics effectively involves a combination of proper diagnosis and either conservative or surgical interventions. Here are some typical orthopedic conditions and their treatment approaches:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a typical joint disorder, especially among older adults. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. This condition can affect weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, but it can also impact smaller joints like those in the hands.
Treatment depends on the severity of the osteoarthritis. Physical therapy can also help by strengthening the muscles around the affected joints, which improves stability and movement. When symptoms become severe and interfere with daily activities, surgical options like joint replacement may be necessary.
Fractures
Fractures happen when a bone breaks due to trauma, such as falling or a direct hit, or because the bone is weak from conditions like osteoporosis. The severity of fractures can range from tiny cracks to complete breaks. Different types of fractures need specific treatments in orthopedics.
Treatment may include immobilizing the bone and realigning it. For complex fractures, surgery might be necessary. This can involve fixation with screws, rods, wires, plates, or nails to ensure proper healing. Recovery usually involves rehabilitation with exercises to restore strength and movement. Throughout recovery, regular check-ups help monitor progress and catch any complications early.
Tendon Tears
Tendon tears are injuries that can happen due to overuse, sudden trauma, or natural aging. These injuries can range from partial tears, where the tendon is only partly torn, to full-thickness tears, where the tendon is completely severed. For severe or full-thickness tears, surgery might be necessary to restore movement and function. Arthroscopic surgery is used because it is minimally invasive and allows for precise repair of the damaged tendon.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome results from compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist’s carpal tunnel, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand or fingers. It may develop from repetitive hand movements or prolonged wrist positioning, contributing to irritation and swelling.
When symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention, such as carpal tunnel release, is performed to reduce nerve pressure. Other surgeries may include open reduction and internal fixation, tendon and nerve repair, or drainage and debridement. Post-surgery rehabilitation supports recovery and restores hand function.
Find Services in Orthopedics
Orthopedic conditions can affect your mobility and overall quality of life. Personalized treatment options can help improve your outcomes. If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, recovering from a fracture, or noticing symptoms like tingling or swelling, it’s wise to seek professional advice. If orthopedic issues are disrupting your daily routine, schedule an appointment with a specialist to determine the ideal course of action. Taking prompt steps can help reduce discomfort and promote long-term wellness.
