We humans put our bodies through a lot, so most of us suffer some sort of musculoskeletal injury at some point in our lives. Between accidents and sports to simply working, there are plenty of ways in which a person can get hurt.
Some types of orthopedic injuries are much more common than others. Let’s talk about the 10 most common specific injuries people report to orthopedic doctors:
Torn Meniscus
The meniscus is a small section of protective cartilage in the knee that allows the knee to move freely. Physical therapy and rest, including a stabilizing brace, is usually the first treatment; however, more serious tears could require surgical intervention to repair the injury.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
People who frequently type, sew, or do repetitive movements with their hands and arms may eventually develop carpal tunnel syndrome. This happens when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist to the hand, becomes pinched and compressed – creating weakness and numbness in the hand. Treatment may include braces, therapy, and medication.
Torn Rotator Cuff
The shoulder has the widest range of motion of any joint in the human body. The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles in and around the shoulder, and it can stretch a bit to allow full motion.
But sometimes the rotator cuff can be stretched too far – which causes it to snap or tear. Depending on the severity of the tear, it can require surgery and/or physical therapy for proper healing.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is the ligament along the bottom of the foot that attaches the toes to the heel. When this ligament is stretched too far or injured, it can cause severe pain and swelling – especially in the heel.
Plantar fasciitis requires rest and a decrease in activity to relieve the pain. Surgery may be required to correct the injury if the pain doesn’t subside.
Torn ACL
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee can be torn from a quick change in direction in the leg, such as a twist or turn. Treatment of a torn ACL usually includes rest and physical therapy, and reparative surgery only if necessary.
Tennis Elbow
Not just experienced by tennis players, tennis elbow is an overuse type of injury in the elbow’s tendons. It can happen to painters, plumbers, carpenters, and hairdressers. Rest is typically the best method in treating this injury.
Ankle and Foot Sprains
A sprain is when the ligament connecting two adjacent bones is torn partially or fully. The RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) is the best way to help heal this type of injury; however, severe sprains can require additional medical treatment.
Stress Fractures
Thin and tiny cracks in a bone are called stress fractures. They most frequently appear in the foot and lower leg bones, and they result from too much stress, wear, and tear.
Most stress fractures heal by themselves, because the pain keeps people from putting further pressure on the affected area. However, even if you think you know that your pain is caused by a stress fracture, see a doctor for a full evaluation in case something can be done for faster healing.
Dislocated Shoulder
Car accidents, contact injuries, and sports typically cause a shoulder dislocation, which is when the upper part of the arm bone is dislocated from the shoulder socket. It is extremely painful, and it will necessitate someone to put the shoulder back into the socket – preferably a medical professional.
Once a shoulder has been dislocated, it is more prone to recur.
Wrist Fracture
The wrist contains many small bones, and they can break easily from impact. Usually, a cast and immobilization will fix the issue; surgery may be required in severe cases. A broken wrist can easily occur when a person reaches down to break a fall.
Orthopedic Surgeons in San Antonio
Our medical team at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine can handle any kind of musculoskeletal injury or condition you are experiencing. From Olympic hopefuls to weekend warriors, our doctors can help you get back into action.
We are conveniently located in San Antonio, and our doctors have experience in all matters of surgery and rehabilitation. Call us today at (210) 692-7400, or click here to request an appointment online. We look forward to seeing you.
