Have you ever experienced a bone or joint issue that affected your daily life? Many people face such challenges. Thankfully, orthopedists are here to help. These doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating problems related to bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. With their expertise, they can help individuals regain mobility and improve their quality of life. In this article, we will explore some common conditions treated by an orthopedist.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common issue that doctors who fix bones and joints deal with.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the smooth covering on the ends of bones wears out. Eventually, the bones begin to grind against each other. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. It often affects areas like the knees, hips, hands, and back.
Many people experience this condition as they age. However, it can also result from joint injuries or repetitive stress.
Orthopedists use various approaches to manage osteoarthritis. These include:
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- Surgery (in some cases)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is another problem that bone and joint doctors often see. Unlike osteoarthritis, this is an autoimmune issue, meaning the body attacks its own tissues by mistake.
It causes pain and stiffness in the joints and can harm bones and ligaments over time. It is important to catch rheumatoid arthritis and start treatment early. Doctors work with patients to make treatment plans that might include medicine, changes in lifestyle, and exercise.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis makes bones weak, making them likely to break. It is common in older adults, especially women, and you might not notice it until a bone breaks.
Doctors can use special tests to find out if someone has osteoporosis.
Once it is diagnosed, doctors can create a plan to strengthen the bones and prevent breaks. This plan may include diet changes, medications and exercise.
Sports Injuries
Doctors who specialize in bones and joints often treat sports injuries, from twists and sprains to broken bones. These injuries can happen to athletes at any level.
The aim is to help patients safely return to their activities through rest, exercise, and sometimes surgery.
Doctors also teach athletes how to avoid injuries in the future.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is when a tendon, which connects muscle to bone, gets inflamed or irritated. This causes pain and soreness near a joint.
Tendonitis can happen in any tendon, but it is most common in shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.
Doctors often suggest rest, ice therapy, and exercise to treat it. In some cases, they might use injections or surgery.
Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition often treated by doctors who focus on bones and joints. It occurs when the small sacs filled with fluid that cushion joints become inflamed.
Bursitis often affects the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. Repeating the same movements or putting pressure on these sacs can cause bursitis.
Doctors usually recommend rest, ice therapy, and medicine to reduce swelling and pain. Sometimes, exercises or injections are better options.
Fractures
Fractures, or broken bones, are common issues treated by doctors who specialize in bones. They can happen because of falls, accidents, or direct impacts to the body.
Fractures can be minor cracks or complete breaks, which doctors can see using X-rays.
Treatment often involves using a cast or splint to keep the bone still. Some fractures will need surgery to ensure proper healing and recovery.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when there is pressure on a nerve in the wrist. This pressure leads to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. It can be caused by repeated hand movements, wrist shape, or certain health issues.
Doctors diagnose it with physical checks and nerve tests. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or wrist braces. Carpal tunnel release is also a surgical option.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is when the spine curves in an unusual way, and it may start during a growth spurt before puberty. While it can be mild, serious cases can affect breathing and cause ongoing pain.
Doctors diagnose scoliosis through exams and imaging tests. Treatment will involve monitoring and likely a brace. Surgery is also an option, depending on your needs and desires.
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs happen when a disc in the spine breaks or slips and presses on nearby nerves. This condition may lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs.
It often happens due to aging, heavy lifting, or sudden strain. Doctors diagnose it with imaging tests and physical exams. Treatment can include exercises, medicine, and sometimes surgery.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries involve damage to the muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder joint stable. These injuries can happen suddenly or when doing overhead tasks repeatedly. Symptoms are shoulder pain, weakness, and limited movement.
Doctors diagnose these injuries using physical exams and imaging. Treatment for a rotator cuff injury varies. Minor injuries might only need rest and physical therapy. Some cases might require surgery.
The Best Orthopedist in San Antonio, TX
Orthopedists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. From osteoarthritis to rotator cuff injuries, they help patients regain mobility. If you are experiencing any of these conditions, consider reaching out to the best orthopedist near you.
The Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine is here to support you on your path to recovery. Our expert providers have extensive experience treating common orthopedic conditions. Our state-of-the-art facilities and patient-centered approach mean that you receive the best care possible. Call (210) 692-7400 to arrange a consultation with a leading orthopedic doctor near you.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5599-osteoarthritis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4924-rheumatoid-arthritis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4443-osteoporosis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22093-sports-injuries
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/tendonitis
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/bursitis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15241-bone-fractures
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/carpal-tunnel-syndrome
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15837-scoliosis
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/lumbar-disc-disease-herniated-disc
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/rotator-cuff-injury
