Your musculoskeletal system supports you and helps you execute any number of complex movements. However, your joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons can break down over time, or you may sustain an injury which impacts your ability to move and be independent. In this blog, we will discuss a few common orthopedic conditions and when you should see an orthopedic specialist for evaluation.
What Are Some Common Orthopedic Conditions?
Common orthopedic conditions can impact people of all ages and walks of life. Some of the most common include:
Arthritis
This degenerative condition leads to inflammation and pain in joints, such as the hip and knee.
Tendonitis
An injury or repetitive movement can cause painful inflammation of the tendons in the wrist, elbow, and other areas. Tendonitis often leads to limited movement and flexibility.
Sprains And Strains
These common injuries may be due to sudden movements or overexertion. Muscles, ligaments, or tendons stretch or tear, causing pain, swelling and problems with normal movement.
Fractures
Broken bones are a common orthopedic condition, especially among active individuals who engage in sports or physical activities. Fractures can range from minor hairline cracks to more severe breaks which require surgery.
Osteoporosis
This degenerative condition causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
A compression of the median nerve in the wrist, CTS causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. Orthopedic specialists often see this condition in people who use keyboards every day or who perform other repetitive motions.
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of the connective tissue along the arch of the foot results in heel pain and difficulty walking.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Damage or tearing of the muscles and tendons which lift the shoulder compromise the rotator cuff. Stabilization with a sling or even surgery may be needed to heal this important structure.
ACL Tears
One of the most common knee injuries among athletes, an ACL tear affects the anterior cruciate ligament. This ACL connects the thigh and shin bones. Sudden stops or changes in direction can damage the ACL.
Tennis Elbow
Also known as lateral epicondylitis, this condition comes from overuse of the muscles in the forearm. Sufferers report pain and tenderness on the outer aspect of the elbow.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) which cushion and lubricate joints can cause pain and swelling in affected areas. A common site for bursitis is the knee.
Trigger Finger
This condition causes one or more fingers to get stuck in a bent position. Pain often accompanies trigger finger.
When Should I See an Orthopedic Specialist?
For some people, symptoms of many of these musculoskeletal conditions remain mild and respond well to at-home treatments. Others, however, do require evaluation and treatment by an orthopedic surgeon, a highly trained healthcare provider who has expertise and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of bone and joint issues.
You should visit an orthopedic specialist if:
You Need the Right Diagnosis
Do your symptoms puzzle both you and your primary care physician? Are you unsure of their cause or how serious your condition may be?
In this case, see your orthopedic surgeon in Austin, TX, for a complete examination, imaging, and evaluation of your symptoms. After a thorough evaluation and diagnosis, your orthopedic doctor can outline treatment options to address your musculoskeletal symptoms. Plus, you will have peace of mind when you know exactly what is happening and what you can do to feel and function better.
You Have a Chronic Musculoskeletal Condition
Osteoarthritis, and its associated pain, stiffness, and joint degeneration, is one of the most impactful musculoskeletal conditions. Consulting with a trained orthopedic surgeon can provide you treatment options to help you move more comfortably and safely, manage pain and stiffness, and maintain your independence.
Plus, your orthopedic specialist has many innovative treatments at their disposal to find the one that is right for you. These may include joint replacement surgery, viscosupplementation, medications, and much more.
You Want Education on How to Stay Injury-Free
Perhaps you are a senior who is a fall risk, or you may be an avid athlete who wants to stay active for years to come. Your orthopedic doctor can show you ways to use proper body mechanics for your daily activities or explain techniques to modify your workouts to prevent overuse injuries.
Additionally, your orthopedic specialist can provide you with information about nutrition and supplements which promote joint health and prevent conditions, such as osteoporosis.
You Have an Acute Musculoskeletal Injury
Maybe you were in a car accident and have fractured your foot, sprained your ankle running, or tore the rotator cuff in your shoulder during a ballgame. Whatever the circumstance, acute orthopedic injuries cannot be ignored.
While at-home first aid and treatment at a hospital ER are valuable, they may not be enough to treat your injury properly. Your orthopedic specialist offers a wide array of diagnostic and treatment options, including:
- Immobilization with casting or bracing
- Cold and heat application
- Referral to physical therapy
- Arthroscopic and joint replacement surgeries
- Viscosupplementation, PRP, stem cell and cortisone injections
- Orthotics
Your orthopedic surgeon will speak with you to understand your symptoms and your therapeutic goals. Together, you will arrive at a treatment plan which helps you manage pain, maintain strength, flexibility, and movement, and prevent additional joint damage.
The Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Austin, TX
Do not let your musculoskeletal condition hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Discover the benefits of All-Star Orthopedics and the dedicated care provided by Dr. Carolyn Hyde. Catering to people of all ages, occupations, and athletic capabilities, she offers an engaging approach and versatile skill set to help treat your condition and provide you with the education you need.
Call us today at (512) 346-4933 to schedule a personalized consultation, or you can easily request a visit online. Take a step towards a healthier, stronger you and get the treatment you need to be at your very best.
