There is an old saying, “with age comes the wisdom”, and they are partially right. Why partially? This is because getting older also comes with a slew of health issues, such as problems related to bones, joints, and muscles.
Aging is a part of life, but you can decrease your vulnerability to orthopedic injuries and problems by seeking orthopedic care.
Let’s explore what common orthopedic problems you can come across as you grow older and how an orthopedic doctor In San Antonio, TX can care for them.
Common Orthopedic Problems in Seniors
Here are some common orthopedic problems that you might face when getting older.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the hundred types of arthritis that occurs as the cartilage that cushion the end of your bones deteriorates with time. Any joint can be prone to osteoarthritis but the hip, knee, and shoulder joints are more frequently plagued by it. Albeit irreversible, osteoarthritis can be managed by right orthopedic care.
Fractures
With age, the bone becomes brittle and easy to fracture as the bone mineral density as well as the ability of bones to rebuild themselves decreases. Osteoporosis, a condition when bone mass loss faster than bone mass creation, is a condition that commonly results in a fracture in the elderly.
Dislocation
Dislocation is an orthopedic problem in which two bones connected by joints move out of the place. The shoulder, elbow, knee, hip, and finger joint are most commonly prone to dislocation.
Comprehensive Orthopedic Care for Senior
At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, orthopedics can help by offering:
(1) preventive care that lessens the effect of aging on the musculoskeletal system
(2) orthopedic treatment for injuries and issues, and
(3) rehabilitation.
Preventive Care
To minimize or prevent the degradation of bone, muscle, and joints as you get older, an orthopedic doctor put forward the modalities that strengthen the musculoskeletal system and decrease vulnerability to injuries and conditions. Your orthopedic doctor urges you to perform certain targeted exercises and consume supplements and prescription medications that are imperative to maintain a healthy musculoskeletal system.
Occupational therapists will assist you on how to prevent injuries by making necessary modifications in your home, such as altering the location of furniture and walking in only a well-lit area.
Orthopedic Treatments for Seniors
It is almost impossible to avoid orthopedic injuries and conditions altogether. Some injuries respond to nonsurgical treatments, including medications and physical therapy, while others don’t and demand surgical solutions. Following are the most common orthopedic surgeries performed on seniors.
Replacement Surgeries
Replacement surgeries can restore mobility and quality of life in people suffering from a degenerative disease such as osteoarthritis, where the cartilage between the bones has worn out and result in pain and limited mobility. Orthopedic surgeons remove the old worn-out joint and replace it with an artificial one, thus, saving you from long-term pain and disability. Common replacement surgeries performed on elderly patients are:
- Hip replacement surgery
- Knee (either partial or total) replacement surgery
- Shoulder joint (total) replacement surgery
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation following orthopedic surgery, is an important aspect of comprehensive orthopedic care.
Following surgery, the occupational therapists focus on helping you perform daily activities and guide you on how to use assistive devices if there are any.
Similarly, physical therapists employ various treatments, including therapeutic exercises and manual therapies, such as joint mobilization and massage, among others.
Comprehensive Orthopedic Care for Seniors In San Antonio, TX
Whether you are entering into golden years and want to safeguard your musculoskeletal system health or are suffering from any orthopedic injury, seek a lasting solution by pay us a visit at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. Here, our board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors will provide you the care you might need to keep your musculoskeletal system sturdy and fit.
If you have any questions about our orthopedic services for seniors or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our exceptional orthopedic doctors, contact us today at (210) 692-7400 or fill out our appointment request form online.
We look forward to serving you!
