Health Library

Common Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopaedic conditions affect the musculoskeletal system and may vary from short-term injuries to long-standing health issues that need ongoing medical attention.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing discomfort and limiting normal movement over time.

Symptoms

• Persistent joint discomfort
• Tightness or difficulty moving the joint
• Noticeable swelling around the joint area
• Warmth or color changes near affected joints
• Gradual loss of flexibility and motion

Solutions

• Medications aimed at reducing inflammation and pain
• Targeted physiotherapy to improve strength and joint function
• Lifestyle and weight control strategies to reduce joint stress
• Surgical solutions such as knee or hip joint replacement when conservative treatment is no longer effective

Fractures

A fracture refers to a loss of bone continuity caused by impact, excessive pressure, or reduced bone strength over time.

Symptoms

• Sudden or increasing pain in the injured area
• Swelling accompanied by skin discoloration
• Unusual shape or alignment of the affected limb
• Limited or absent movement due to discomfort

These injuries often result from falls, road accidents, physical activities, or conditions that weaken bones, such as osteoporosis.

Solutions

• Securing the injured bone with supportive devices to allow proper healing
• Corrective surgical procedures for severe or unstable bone damage
• Guided recovery programs focused on restoring movement, strength, and stability

Tendonitis

Inflammation of joints leading to pain and stiffness.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness around a joint, especially during movement
• Mild stiffness
• SwellingCommon in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees.

Solutions

• Rest
• Ice therapy
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroid injections
• Targeted physical therapy to prevent recurrence

Scoliosis

Abnormal curvature of the spine

Symptoms

• Uneven shoulders or hips
• Noticeable curve in the spine
• Back pain
• Difficulty breathing in severe cases

Solutions

• Observation for mild cases
• Bracing for moderate curvature during growth, or surgical correction (spinal fusion) for severe cases

Sports Injuries

Sprains, strains, and ligament tears often experienced by athletes

Symptoms

• Sharp pain
• Inability to bear weight
• Restricted movement in joints or musclesCommon injuries include ACL tears, sprained ankles, and rotator cuff injuries.

Solutions

• Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
• Physical therapy to restore function
• Surgery for ligament or cartilage repair in severe cases

Treatment Options

Treatment in orthopedics focuses on restoring function, alleviating pain, and preventing further damage

Non-Surgical Treatments

 Medications

• Pain relievers
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Supplements for bone health (e.g., calcium and vitamin D)

Physical Therapy

• Strengthens muscles
• Improves mobility
• Prevents recurrence

Braces or Orthotics

• Support for injured or weakened joints to promote healing

Injections

• Corticosteroids for inflammation or hyaluronic acid for joint lubrication

Surgical Treatments

 Arthroscopy

• Minimally invasive surgery for diagnosing and repairing joint issues

Joint Replacement

• Replacement of damaged joints (hip, knee, shoulder) with prosthetics

Fracture Fixation

• Using rods, plates, or screws to stabilize broken bones

Spinal Surgery

• For severe conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis

Preventive Care and Wellness

Preventing orthopedic conditions involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being proactive about bone and joint health

Symptoms

• Recurring pain
• Stiffness, or swelling in joints
• Reduced range of motion, or difficulty performing daily tasks

Preventive Solutions

 Healthy Diet

• Include calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals to strengthen bones
• Vitamin D from sunlight or supplements aids calcium absorption

Regular Exercise

• Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming to maintain bone density and joint flexibility

Proper Posture

• Avoid prolonged sitting or slouching, especially during work or screen time

Injury Prevention

• Use protective gear during sports and maintain proper technique in physical activities

Routine Check-Ups

• Early diagnosis through regular health check-ups can prevent minor issues from becoming chronic

Exercises and Rehabilitation

Recovery from orthopedic conditions often requires structured rehabilitation and exercises tailored to individual needs

Symptoms

• Weakness
• Stiffness,
• Swelling
• Limited range of motion tasks

Solutions

 Strengthening Exercises

• Focus on rebuilding muscle strength around the affected area, such as leg presses for knee injuries or resistance training for shoulder issues

Flexibility and Stretching

• Improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. Exercises like hamstring stretches or yoga are effective

Balance Training

• Helps prevent falls, especially in older adults or those recovering from lower-limb injuries

Pain Management

• Techniques like heat or cold therapy, therapeutic massage, and electrical stimulation for chronic pain relief

Tailored Rehabilitation Plans

• Supervised by physiotherapists, these plans are adjusted based on recovery progress, ensuring a safe and steady return to normal activities