Orthopaedic Conditions – Early Detection, Prevention, & Treatments

Orthopaedic issues can significantly impact one’s quality of life, making timely and accurate diagnosis crucial for effective treatment. In Singapore, a range of non-surgical and orthopaedic surgery treatments are also available to address various orthopaedic issues. In this article, we explore these treatment options, helping you understand the comprehensive care provided by orthopaedic specialists.

Learn more: Bone & Orthopaedic Health >>

Understanding Orthopaedic Diagnosis And Assessment

Orthopaedic diagnosis and assessment involve a series of steps to accurately identify and evaluate conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. This process is essential for developing an appropriate treatment plan to address issues such as joint pain, fractures, and sports injuries.

Key Steps In Orthopaedic Screening And Diagnosis

1. Initial Consultation

The first step in the orthopaedic diagnosis process is an initial consultation with an orthopaedic specialist. During this consultation:

• Medical History – The doctor will take a detailed medical history, including information about symptoms, previous injuries, medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors.
• Symptom Assessment – The doctor will ask specific questions about the nature, onset, duration, and intensity of your symptoms.

2. Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination helps the orthopaedic doctor assess the affected area and identify any visible signs of injury or abnormality. The examination may include:

• Inspection – Observing the affected area for swelling, bruising, deformities, or asymmetry.
• Palpation – Feeling the area to detect tenderness, warmth, or abnormalities.
• Range Of Motion Tests – Evaluating the movement of joints to identify limitations or pain.
• Strength Tests – Assessing the strength of muscles around the affected area.
• Neurological Tests – Checking for nerve function, reflexes, and sensation.

3. Imaging Studies

Imaging studies are crucial for visualising internal structures and providing detailed information about the condition. Common imaging techniques used in orthopaedic screening in Singapore include:

X-rays

• Purpose – Visualise bones and detect fractures, dislocations, and degenerative changes like osteoarthritis.
• Process – A small amount of radiation passes through the body to create images of bones.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Purpose – Provide detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and nerves.
• Process – Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce high-resolution images.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

• Purpose – Offer detailed cross-sectional images of bones and soft tissues.
• Process – Combines multiple X-ray images taken from different angles.

Ultrasound

• Purpose – valuate soft tissues, tendons, and ligaments, especially in real-time during movement.
• Process – Uses high-frequency sound waves to create images.

4. Laboratory Tests

Laboratory tests can help identify underlying conditions or systemic issues contributing to orthopaedic problems. Common tests include:

Blood Tests

• Purpose – Detects markers of inflammation, infection, or autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Examples – Complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and rheumatoid factor (RF).

Joint Aspiration (Arthrocentesis)

• Purpose – Analyse the fluid from a swollen joint to diagnose infections, gout, or other joint disorders.
• Process – A needle is used to withdraw fluid from the joint for laboratory analysis.

5. Functional And Diagnostic Tests

These tests assess the function and biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system:

Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

• Purpose – Evaluate nerve and muscle function to diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or nerve injuries.
• Process – Measures electrical activity in muscles and the speed of nerve signals.

Gait Analysis

• Purpose – Assess the way a person walks to identify abnormalities or biomechanical issues.
• Process – Observes walking patterns, often using motion capture technology.

Arthroscopy

• Purpose – Provide a direct look inside a joint to diagnose and sometimes treat issues.
• Process – A small camera is inserted into the joint through a tiny incision.

Orthopaedic Treatments

Non-Surgical

Non-surgical methods are often the first line of treatment for many orthopaedic conditions. These treatments aim to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life without the need for surgery.

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy involves exercises and manual techniques designed to improve mobility, strength, and flexibility. A physical therapist will create a customised program tailored to your specific condition. Common techniques include:

• Strengthening Exercises – Build muscle strength around affected joints.
• Stretching Exercises – Improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
• Manual Therapy – Hands-on techniques to mobilise joints and soft tissues.
• Pain Relief Modalities – Use of heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation.

2. Medications

Medications can help manage pain and inflammation associated with orthopaedic conditions. Commonly used medications include:

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – Reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Pain Relievers – Acetaminophen or opioids for severe pain.
• Corticosteroids – Oral or injectable steroids to reduce inflammation.

3. Orthotic Devices

Orthotic devices support and stabilise affected areas to reduce pain and improve function. These devices include:

• Braces – Provide support for knees, ankles, wrists, and other joints.
• Splints – Immobilize and protect injured areas during healing.
• Orthotic Insoles – Custom-made shoe inserts to correct foot alignment and relieve pressure.

4. Injections

Injections can provide targeted pain relief and reduce inflammation in specific areas. Common types include:

• Corticosteroid Injections – Reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Lubricate joints, particularly useful for osteoarthritis.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections – Use the patient’s own blood components to promote healing of injured tendons, ligaments, and joints.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

Making changes to your lifestyle can help manage orthopaedic conditions and prevent further complications. Recommendations may include:

• Weight Management – Reducing weight to decrease stress on joints.
• Exercise Routine – Engaging in low-impact activities like swimming or cycling.
• Ergonomic Adjustments – Modifying workstations to prevent repetitive strain injuries.

Orthopaedic Surgery In Singapore

When non-surgical methods are not sufficient, orthopaedic surgery in Singapore may be necessary to address severe injuries or chronic conditions.

1. Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery in Singapore used to diagnose and treat joint problems. A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint through a tiny incision, allowing the surgeon to view and repair the joint.

• Common Uses – Treating torn ligaments, meniscus tears, and cartilage damage.

2. Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial implant. This procedure is commonly performed on hips, knees, and shoulders.

• Hip Replacement – Replaces the hip joint with a prosthetic implant.
• Knee Replacement – Involves replacing the knee joint with a prosthetic joint.
• Shoulder Replacement – Replaces the damaged shoulder joint with an artificial implant.

3. Spinal Surgery

Spinal surgery addresses issues related to the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis.

• Discectomy – Removal of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve.
• Laminectomy – Removal of part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
• Spinal Fusion – Joining two or more vertebrae to eliminate motion and provide stability.

4. Fracture Repair

Fracture repair surgery involves realigning and stabilising broken bones using various techniques.

• Internal Fixation – Use of metal plates, screws, or rods to hold bones in place.
• External Fixation – Use of an external frame to stabilise bones during healing.

5. Tendon And Ligament Repair

Surgical repair of torn tendons and ligaments is essential for restoring function and stability.

• ACL Reconstruction – Rebuilding the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee.
• Rotator Cuff Repair – Fixing a torn rotator cuff in the shoulder.

6. Corrective Surgery

Corrective surgery addresses deformities or abnormalities in the musculoskeletal system.

• Osteotomy – Cutting and repositioning bones to correct alignment.
• Limb Lengthening – Gradually lengthening bones to correct discrepancies.

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 >>

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