Guide To Bone & Orthopaedic Health In Singapore

Bone and orthopaedic health is essential for maintaining mobility and overall well-being. In Singapore, the demand for orthopaedic care is on the rise, with an ageing population and an increase in sports-related injuries. Whether you are experiencing chronic joint pain or recovering from a fracture, seeking professional care from an orthopaedic specialist can significantly improve your quality of life.

Learn more: Bone & Orthopaedic Health >>

What Is Orthopaedics?

Orthopaedics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Orthopaedic specialists are trained to address a wide range of issues, from fractures and sprains to degenerative diseases such as arthritis.

Symptoms Of Orthopaedic Conditions

Common symptoms that may indicate an orthopaedic issue include:

• Persistent joint or bone pain.
• Swelling or inflammation around joints.
• Limited range of motion.
• Difficulty walking or standing.
• Weakness in limbs.
• Visible deformities in bones or joints.

What Causes Orthopaedic Conditions?

Orthopaedic conditions can result from various factors, including:

• Age-related wear and tear.
• Traumatic injuries such as fractures or dislocations.
• Repetitive stress from sports or occupational activities.
• Genetic predisposition to conditions like osteoporosis.
• Poor posture or ergonomics.

Orthopaedic Conditions Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing orthopaedic conditions, including:

• Advancing age.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Previous injuries.
• Family history of musculoskeletal disorders.

Several medical conditions can exacerbate the risk of orthopaedic issues, such as:

• Osteoporosis.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Diabetes.
• Vitamin D deficiency.
• Gout.

Common Orthopaedic Disorders

Orthopaedic conditions can affect various parts of the body. Some of the most common disorders include:

• Back And Spine – The spine is crucial for providing structural support and enabling movement. Conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis can result from injuries, ageing, or poor posture. Left untreated, these issues may lead to chronic pain and mobility problems.
• Foot And Ankle – Injuries to the foot and ankle are often caused by high-impact sports, accidental falls, or degenerative changes due to ageing. Common conditions include Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and ankle sprains. In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore functionality and prevent complications.
• Hand And Wrist – The hands are particularly susceptible to injuries from sports, repetitive use, or accidents. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and fractures can impair hand strength and dexterity if not addressed promptly.
• Knee – Knee problems frequently arise from activities that involve running, jumping, or sudden directional changes. Common issues include ligament injuries (e.g., ACL tears), meniscus tears, and osteoarthritis. Delayed treatment can lead to chronic instability or joint degeneration.
• Shoulder – Shoulder injuries are often linked to repetitive overhead motions in sports like swimming, tennis, or weightlifting. Conditions such as rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, and dislocations are prevalent and may significantly impact mobility and strength if untreated.

Common Sports Injuries

Sports injuries are a frequent reason for orthopaedic consultations. Common injuries include:

• Sprains And Strains – Damage to ligaments or muscles due to overstretching or overuse.
• Fractures – Breaks in bones caused by high-impact activities.
• Dislocations – Joints forced out of their normal positions, commonly affecting shoulders and knees.
• Tendonitis – Inflammation of tendons, often occurring in the elbow (tennis elbow) or Achilles tendon.
• Shin Splints – Pain along the shin bone due to overuse or improper footwear.
• Stress Fractures – Small cracks in bones, typically affecting the feet and legs.

Diagnosis and Tests

Learn more: Medical Imaging >>

Diagnosing orthopaedic conditions typically involves a comprehensive approach:

1. Medical History – A detailed discussion about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous injuries or conditions.
2. Physical Examination – The specialist will assess your range of motion, strength, and any visible abnormalities in the affected area.
3. Imaging Tests – These may include:

• X-rays: To detect fractures, joint misalignments, or bone deformities.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): To provide detailed images of soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scans: For a more detailed view of complex fractures or bone structures.
• Ultrasound: Useful for evaluating soft tissue injuries and fluid accumulation.

• Laboratory Tests – Blood tests may be conducted to identify inflammatory markers or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
• Bone Density Tests – These are essential for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.

Treatments 

Orthopaedic treatments are tailored to the severity and nature of the condition and can be broadly categorised as follows:

Non-surgical Treatments

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or disease-modifying agents for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Physiotherapy: Aimed at strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and restoring range of motion.
• Orthopaedic Devices: Braces, splints, or orthotics to support healing and reduce strain on affected areas.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, ergonomic adjustments, and tailored exercise routines to prevent further complications.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Arthroscopy: A keyhole surgical technique used for diagnosing and treating joint problems, such as repairing cartilage or removing loose fragments.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation or hyaluronic acid injections for joint lubrication.

Surgical Treatments

• Joint Replacement Surgery: Replacing damaged joints with prosthetic implants, commonly performed for hips and knees.
• Fracture Repair: Using plates, screws, or rods to stabilise broken bones.
• Spinal Surgery: To address conditions such as herniated discs, scoliosis, or spinal stenosis.
• Corrective Surgery: To fix deformities or misalignments in bones and joints.

Rehabilitation

• Post-surgical physiotherapy is essential for regaining strength, mobility, and independence.
• Pain management strategies and regular follow-ups to monitor recovery progress.

Costs

Learn more: Understanding Orthopaedic Costs In Singapore >>

Contact Us For Appointment

If you are experiencing symptoms of an orthopaedic condition or require professional advice, contact us to schedule an appointment with a qualified orthopaedic specialist in Singapore. 

Learn more: Guide On Finding The Best Orthopaedic Doctor In Singapore 

FAQs

When should I see an orthopaedic specialist? 

You should consider consulting an orthopaedic specialist if you experience persistent pain, limited mobility, or injuries that do not heal with rest and basic care.

What can I expect during an orthopaedic consultation? 

During your consultation, the specialist will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and may recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRI scans.

Are orthopaedic treatments covered by insurance in Singapore? 

Most orthopaedic treatments, including surgeries and rehabilitation, are covered under private health insurance or Medisave. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.

Related Articles On Health365

• Bone & Orthopaedic Health – Do Not Let Mobility Issues Hold You Back
• Health365 Guide On Finding The Best Orthopaedic Doctor In Singapore
• 7 Signs You Need To See An Orthopaedic Doctor In Singapore
• Orthopaedic Diagnosis And Assessment In Singapore
• Orthopaedic Treatments And Surgeries In Singapore
• Understanding Orthopaedic Costs In Singapore