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Body

Effective Ways to Care of a Foot and Ankle Injury

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

To think only those individuals who engage in intense sports are susceptible to foot and ankle injury is a gross misconception.

If truth be told, most people have (and will most likely) experience foot and ankle injury at one point in their lives or another.

While most movements will not result to injuries, some symptoms can be attributed to everyday wear and tear as well as overuse.

In majority of the cases, injuries of the foot and ankle often occur during:

Sports or recreational activities
Chores or projects done at home
Chores that are work-related

Soccer and basketball players, gymnasts, and dancers are highly susceptible to foot and ankle injuries as opposed to those who are not engaged in the fields as physically challenging and competitive.

For older adults, osteopenia (loss of bone strength) and muscle mass will often predispose them to injuries and fractures. Vision and balance problems will also significantly increase their injury risk.

Foot and ankle injuries in children can often be attributed to falls, sports, and play. Those that sustain bone injuries near the joint will have to be assessed accordingly as the physis (grown plate) might be compromised.

Fortunately, minor cases of foot and ankle injuries will often respond well to home treatments.

However, acute injuries that resulted from jamming, bending, fall, twisting, direct blows, etc. will require immediate medical attention.

This is especially true when bruising and swelling will manifest.

Other conditions that will need instant medical attention include:

Sprains

Sprains that are persistent are sometimes attributed to a condition known as osteochondritis dissecans

Sprains that are persistent are sometimes attributed to a condition known as osteochondritis dissecans. To play safe, it would be best to check with a doctor right away so the condition is resolved before it complicates.

Puncture wounds

Sharp objects like needles, nails, tacks, and knives often cause puncture wounds. Sans treatment and medical attention, puncture wounds can result to infections.

Strains

Pulled muscles in the ankle or foot can be subjected to strains. In worse case scenarios, it can lead to ruptures.

Contusions

In some instances, contusions or bruising can occur during foot and ankle injuries. To ensure your safety and to ease any pain you might experience, consider seeing the doctor a must.

Thankfully, there is no shortage of treatment options available for foot and ankle injuries—physical therapy, first aid measures (brace, splint, and cast), special shoes (with orthotic devices), medications, etc.

The treatment option administered will depend on certain key factors including the following:

The severity, location, and type of the injury
When the injury occurred
The patient’s overall condition
The patient’s activities (sports, hobbies, work, etc.)
The patient’s age

For cases of minor foot and ankle injuries, the following treatment tips can help effectively reduce stiffness and swelling and ease pain:

To reduce swelling, it is advisable that patients should avoid activities that can cause more swelling—alcoholic beverages, hot packs, hot tubs, and hot showers—at least for the first 48 hours after the injury,
Massage or gently rub the injured area to reduce pain and encourage blood flow. However, it is not advisable to massage the injured area when the patient feels pain.
Once the swelling is reduced or disappears, patients are encouraged to perform gentle exercises to help restore flexibility. Alternating between heat and cold treatments is also often recommended.
Gentle movement, strength, and alternate (MSA) exercises are also recommended to help hasten the healing process.

Movement

After the injury, regaining full motion range is always a top priority. After the injured area has been rested for 24 to 48 hours, moving it gradually is encouraged, stopping only when pain is experienced. To ensure formation of scar tissue is prevented, gentle exercises are also prescribed.

Strength

When there’s no more swelling and the movement range has been restored, the next immediate goal would be to strengthen the area injured.

Alternate activities

While healing, it is advised that certain activities and exercises are incorporated in the daily routine. This is especially advisable a few days after the injury occurred. However, it is advisable that the activities integrated will not put strain on the area injured.

While not all foot and ankle injuries are a cause for worry, it is still recommended to get help from competent experts from www.bjios.sg to ensure the condition will not complicate or worsen.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Ways to Effectively Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

The hand and arm condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and other symptoms is known as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Several factors are believed to contribute to the development of the condition—patterns of hand use, wrist anatomy, and underlying factors, to name a few.

Depending on the condition’s severity, treatment options can range from splints, medications, and carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.

Symptoms

Tingling or numbness

Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome often experience tingling and numbness in the fingers and hands.

In most cases, the tingling and numbness affects the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

There are also instances when the tingling sensation are felt in the wrist and the arm.

Weakness

People with carpal tunnel syndrome are also likely to experience hand weakness.

As a result, they tend to drop objects they are holding every now and then.

However, the tendency to drop objects can also be the result of the thumb’s pinching muscles or the hand’s numbness.

Causes

In majority of the cases, no single cause for carpal tunnel syndrome can be identified

In majority of the cases, no single cause for carpal tunnel syndrome can be identified.

It is highly likely however that the development of the condition can be attributed to a combination of many risk factors.

Essentially, carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve is compressed.

The median nerve provides both nerve signals and sensation.

When irritated or compressed, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs.

For instance, a fracture in the wrist can likely irritate the nerve and may result to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Swelling and inflammation due to rheumatoid arthritis may also lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Prevention

Although there are no proven strategies that can hinder the onset of the condition, several ways can be employed to ensure wrist and hand stress are minimized.

Grip

Manual tasks that will require the use of force can significantly increase an individual’s risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Case in point—if one’s work involves long periods of writing, it would be wise to opt for a pen that has a soft grip adapter.

Getting a pen with a soft grip adapter can help ensure gripping the pen tightly will not be required as the person goes about the task.

Form

As much as possible, bending the wrist all the way up or down should be avoided.

A relaxed position is considered ideal.

When using the keyboard, it is recommended that the elbow is kept at elbow length or lower.

Breaks

At all times, make it a point to give your hands and wrists frequent breaks.

Gentle stretches and periodical bending are highly recommended.

Also, when performing activities that will require exerting a tremendous amount of force, taking regular breaks is even more vital.

Posture

Posture that is incorrect can compress the nerves found in the neck.

When compressed, it can affect the fingers, hands, and wrists.

Treatment

Individuals who only experience mild symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can easily and effectively minimize the discomfort and pain by applying cold packs to minimize the swelling.

Taking routine and frequent breaks and not doing activities that will worsen the condition is also beneficial.

Other likely treatment options include splinting, medications, and carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.

Noninvasive options

Nonsurgical methods are often the chosen treatment route when the condition has been detected early.

Nonsurgical methods can include:

Wrist splinting

A splint can be the ideal recourse when looking to ease tingling and numbness at night.

Nocturnal splinting is also recommended for those who are pregnant but are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and others) have been known to alleviate pain brought about by the condition.

However, no evidence yet as to its capability to improve the condition.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids function by decreasing inflammation and swelling.

However, corticosteroid injections have been proven more effective compared to the oral ones.

Surgery

If the condition does not respond to noninvasive treatment alternatives, surgery will be the recommended choice.

Head to www.bjios.sg to know how to spot telltale indicators of the condition and how to manage the condition accordingly.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body injury surgery

Bunion Surgery: Ways to Effectively Lower Your Risk

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

Bunion or Hallux valgus is a condition characterized by a body deformity of the joint situated at the big toe’s base.

Depending on the condition’s severity, treatment alternatives can range from taking painkiller medications to having bunions surgery.

Symptoms

Telltale symptoms of bunions include:

Pain and inflammation of the joint of the big toe
A swollen bump situated on the outside edge of the foot
Callused and red skin on the affected toe
Sore skin on the top of the area affected
Noticeable changes in the foot’s shape

Sans proper attention and treatment, the condition can worsen and may even require bunions surgery.

Causes

While no exact causes for bunions are known, there are probable causes that have been identified.

Some of the likely causes include:

Arthritis

Bunions has been associated with the following types of arthritis:

Psoriatic arthritis – associated with psoriasis, a known skin condition

Gout – this type typically affects the big toe

Rheumatoid arthritis – swelling and pain of the join can be attributed to the joint lining being attacked by the body’s own immune system

Genetics

If you have family members that have bunions, you have a relatively higher risk of also developing the condition.

However, it will not always follow that if someone in the family has it, everyone in the family will also have it.

Other possible causes

Poor fitting shoes

Wearing of footwear that is too tight has been known to contribute to the development of the condition.

For those who already have the condition, poor choice of footwear can no doubt make the condition even worse.

Treatment Options

Noninvasive treatment options are almost always the first resort when treating the condition

Non-surgical treatment alternatives

Noninvasive treatment options are almost always the first resort when treating the condition.

However, while non-surgical treatment alternatives can do much when it comes to alleviating both the discomfort and the pain, it won’t do much when it comes to preventing the condition from escalating over time.

Non-surgical treatment options include:

Painkillers

When the bunion is painful, over-the-counter painkillers are prescribed.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are classic examples of OTC painkillers.

To play safe, make sure to always read the accompanying information leaflet and follow the dosage recommended.

Bunion pads

Bunion pads are also known to effectively ease pain brought about by the condition.

Reusable bunion pads made of gel or fleece can be easily purchased from pharmacies nowadays.

Bunion pads offer comfort by helping ensure your foot does not rub against your shoe.

Minimizing rubbing can help significantly reduce both pain and pressure.

Orthotics

Orthotics are typically placed inside the shoes and will work by helping realign the foot’s bones.

Orthotics has also been known effective in reducing the pain since it helps minimize pressure on the feet.

However, no evidence has been available yet when it comes to the effectiveness of orthotics even when used for long periods.

Surgery

If the bunion is very painful and already affects the patient’s quality of life, bunion surgery would be the recommended (and ideal) treatment recourse.

The surgery will be carried out in order to ease the pain and correct the alignment.

Nowadays, bunion surgeries are done as an outpatient procedure.

A general or local anesthetic will be used but the patient will not be required to stay in the hospital.

Different types of bunion surgeries

There are numerous surgical procedures for the treatment of bunions.

The procedure chosen will depend on the severity of the condition.

Some of the most common surgical procedures include:

Arthrodesis

This procedure is often considered ideal for those with advanced joint degeneration and severe deformities.

The procedure will entail fusing together the two bones in the big toe joint.

Post-surgery, patients would no longer be able to wear high heels as it would limit the movement of the big toe.

Osteotomy

This type of surgery for the bunion is deemed one of the most common.

The procedure involves cutting and removing a portion of the affected toe’s bone.

After the bony lump is removed, the bones will be realigned.

Bunions can worsen over time without proper management. Steer clear of the discomfort and pain bunions can bring by getting in touch with the experts at www.bjios.sg.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Body health

Back Pain: When is it Bad?

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

Back pain is very common that it affects most people at one point in their lives or another.

Common back pain triggers include bad posture, incorrect lifting, and awkward bending, among others.

Other likely causes include sports injuries, accidents, and muscle strains.

Treatment options for back pain are diverse.

However, before proper treatment can be decided on, a visit to a back pain specialist should be considered a must.

Causes

Whiplash

Neck injury that results from sudden impact

Sciatica

Irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve that results to tingling, pain, and numbness that may even travel down one leg

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Condition that can cause pain and stiffness

Slipped Disc

Occurs when one of the discs found in the spine gets damaged and presses on the nerves

Symptoms

It is ideal that an appointment with the doctor or back pain specialist is scheduled immediately

Sharp and localized pain in the neck and the lower and upper back. The pain often occurs after lifting heavy objects or doing strenuous activities. In some cases, however, upper back pain can also be a telltale sign of a heart attack or other life-threatening conditions.
Chronic pain felt in the middle or lower back after sitting or standing for long periods.
Persistent aches or stiffness felt anywhere along the spine.
Inability to stand up straight and not experience pain in the lower back or muscle spasms.

It is ideal that an appointment with the doctor or back pain specialist is scheduled immediately if the following alarming symptoms will manifest:

When pain from the back travels to the back of the leg, it can be an indicator of a medical condition known as sciatica.
Numbness, tingling, and weakness felt in the groins, arms, and legs. Aforementioned symptoms may be attributed to spinal cord damage.
If patient has problems controlling their bowel and bladder movement, seeking medical attention should be considered a must.
When pain in the back intensifies when coughing or bending forward, it can be due to a herniated disc.
When the back pain is accompanied by frequent fever or urination, it is highly likely that patient has an infection.

Other “red flags” to watch out for that can indicate more serious back issues include:

Night pains
Trauma history
Severe and consistent pain lasting for months
Drastic weight loss

Prevention

Exercise

Exercises such as walking and swimming are deemed ideal choices when tackling back pain.

Other recommended disciplines like Pilates and yoga can also significantly strengthen the muscles of the back and enhance flexibility.

Pressure

In order to keep the back strong and supple, putting strain, pressure, and stress on it should be avoided.

It is also important to keep in mind that the way one stands, lifts, and sits can have an impact on one’s overall health.

Treatment

Given that no other serious underlying condition is involved, back pains often eventually go away on its own.

However, for those who would like to alleviate the pain and hasten healing, the following tips will be helpful:

Stay active

As much as possible, it would be ideal to stay as active as you can and carry on with your day-to-day routine.

Take over-the-counter medications

Painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol are proven effective when it comes to alleviating back pain.

Try hot or cold compression packs

You can easily find and buy one from your local pharmacy.

If back pain persists for weeks, visiting a back pain specialist should be a priority.

Apart from giving the patient an accurate diagnosis, a medical professional can also recommend other treatment options like:

Exercise classes – a class that teaches exercises that can strengthen the muscles and improve posture might be prescribed.
Manual therapy – this can include physiotherapy and osteopathy.
Acupuncture
Strong painkillers

Back pain can be attributed to numerous causes. To check if your back pain is something to worry about, visit www.bjios.sg to find out.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

In essence, repetitive and intense strain on the Achilles tendon is primarily the cause of Achilles tendinitis

Body injury

Achilles Tendinitis: What are the Likely Causes?

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

In essence, repetitive and intense strain on the Achilles tendon is primarily the cause of Achilles tendinitis.

Putting it another way, the condition is the injury of the Achilles tendon brought about by overuse.

The Achilles tendon is the tissue band that links the calf muscles (situated at the back of the lower leg) to the heel bone.

As one ages, the tendon structure weakens, making it more susceptible to injuries.

Likely Causes

Achilles tendinitis is prevalent among middle-aged individuals who engage in sports (i.e. tennis and basketball) only on the weekends and among runners who drastically increase the intensity and duration of their runs.

It is reassuring to note however that majority of Achilles tendinitis cases will respond to at-home remedies supervised by a medical professional.

However, serious cases should be given proper attention and treatment or it can result to tendon tears (ruptures) that might need surgical repair.

Common Symptoms

Telltale indicators of Achilles tendinitis include tenderness, stiffness, and mild ache in the back of the leg situated above the heel.

The symptoms will often manifest after runs and other intense activities.

Risk Factors

There are Some factors that can help increase one's risk of Achilles tendinitis

Some of the factors that can help increase one’s risk of Achilles tendinitis include:

Training choices – running on hilly terrains can significantly increase one’s likelihood of developing Achilles injuries. Wearing shoes that are worn-out can also increase the risk of developing the condition.

Age – the condition can occur more often as one ages

Sex – Achilles tendinitis is more common in men than in women

Medical conditions – patients with psoriasis and high blood pressure are more predisposed to Achilles tendinitis compared to their healthier counterparts

Physical problems – people with a flat arch in the foot are also more likely to develop the condition compared to others. Obesity and tight calf muscles are also factors that have been known to add to the tendon’s strain

Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose if the patient has Achilles tendinitis, the doctor will need to assess the range of motion, reflexes, flexibility, and alignment of both the ankle and the foot.

In some instances, the doctor will have to require other tests to evaluate the condition further.

Some of the likely tests include:

X-rays – while X-rays won’t be able to visualize the soft tissues, it is used to help rule out other conditions that might manifest the same symptoms.

Ultrasound – this device produces real-time images of the tendon in action using sound waves to visualize the soft tissues. If the blood flow around the tendon needs to be checked, a color-Doppler ultrasound will be required.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – with the use of radio waves and a strong magnet, MRI machines can produce highly detailed images.

Preventive Measures

While there is no sure way to prevent the condition from occurring, it is reassuring to know there are measures one can adapt to significantly reduce the risk of Achilles tendinitis from happening.

For starters, the following can help ensure Achilles tendinitis is kept at bay:

Cross-training – to ensure your Achilles tendon is safe from injury, it would be best to take it easy on the high-impact activities.

For instance, while it is perfectly okay to engage in running or jumping, consider it ideal to throw in some low-impact activities such as cycling and swimming.

Incorporating low-impact activities can help ensure your tendons are not strained.

Overexertion – as a general rule of thumb, refrain from engaging in activities that will put excessive strain on your Achilles tendons.

If you are going to do a strenuous activity, make sure to do your warm-ups first.

Also, when doing exercise routines, be sure to start slow and increase the duration and intensity as you go along.

Stretching – to enhance flexibility, stretch your calf muscles and Achilles tendon in the morning before and after doing your exercise routine.

To know about Achilles tendinitis and its proper management, visit www.bjios.sg right away.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Ingrown toenails occur when the corner or the side of the toenail grows into the soft flesh

Body health hygiene

Effective Way to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

A common condition that often affects the big toe is called ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails occur when the corner or the side of the toenail grows into the soft flesh.

Although seemingly harmless, sans treatment, ingrown toenails can sometimes result to infection.

In worse case scenarios, it might even require ingrown toenail surgery.

To keep ingrown toenail (and its complications) at bay, keep in mind the following helpful tips:

Make sure your footwear fits properly.

Nails that grow into the surrounding tissue can be the result of too much pressure placed on the toes. In most instances, the pressure can be attributed to wearing footwear that do not fit properly.

At all times, it is recommended that you only wear and purchase properly fitted shoes.

This is especially helpful if you also have other foot problems to take care of.

When possible, buy shoes from stores that specialize in fitting footwear for those individuals with foot issues.

Trim your nails straight across.

Ideally, when trimming your toenails, make it a point not to curve it to match your front toe’s shape.

If you will have your toenails trimmed at the salon, make it a point to instruct the pedicurist to trim your nails right across.

If you are suffering from a condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet, it would be ideal to have a podiatrist do your trimming on your behalf.

Ensure you do not trim your nails too short.

Apart from ensuring you trim the nails right across, it is also advisable that nails are not trimmed too short

Apart from ensuring you trim the nails right across, it is also advisable that nails are not trimmed too short.

As with everything else, moderation is always the key.

In other words, moderate length should be the goal—not too long and not too short.

While trimming the nails too short might seem like the ideal option at first glance, nothing can be farther from the truth.

In fact, it might even prove counterproductive.

When the toenails are trimmed too short, pressure from the shoes might cause the toenail to grow into the surrounding tissue.

Wear/use protective footwear when needed.

If you are susceptible to foot injuries while at work or at play, be sure to wear proper footwear.

For instance, if there is a high possibility of foot injuries while at work, wearing steel-toed footwear is ideal.

However, if you already have an ingrown toenail, seeking medical attention is required especially if the following symptoms will manifest:

Severe discomfort
Pus or redness in the affected area
If you have diabetes, infection, foot sore, or other conditions that will cause poor blood flow to the feet

Sans proper attention and treatment, ingrown toenails can cause infection and can affect the underlying bone. In other cases, it can even lead to serious bone infection.

Complications from ingrown toenails can be especially severe for people with diabetes. The condition can make any foot injury (even the minor ones) from healing properly.

Although ingrown toenail surgery is always not the first option recommended by doctors, it can become the primary option when the risk of complications is high.

When visiting your doctor or podiatrist, it is crucial that you come prepared so you will have all the bases covered.

When possible, prepare a list of questions you will ask so you will know all the essentials.

The following questions should make it to your list:

Is the condition going away on its own a possibility?
What treatment options are available?
What are the pros and cons of each treatment alternative?
Would ingrown toenail surgery be required?
Is the condition temporary or long-term?
What are the recommended nail care routines while healing?

Ingrown toenails are mostly harmless, given they are attended to right away.

Sans treatment however, it can be a different story.

The good news is discomfort and complications brought about by ingrown toenails are avoidable if attention and treatment are given right away before it escalates.

To ensure your ingrown toenail is managed properly, head to www.bjios.sg now.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

ACL injury is the medical term used to refer to the tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament of the ACL

Body injury

What are the Likely Treatment Options for ACL Injuries?

by allurewellness February 1, 2017

written by allurewellness

ACL injury is the medical term used to refer to the tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament of the ACL.

Typical ACL injuries typically occur in sports that involve drastic stops, sudden jumps, and changes in direction—tennis, gymnastics, downhill skiing, basketball, and soccer to name a few.

In most cases, affected individuals can feel and hear a “pop” during an ACL injury.

Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment options can range from rehabilitation, rest, or surgery.

Typical symptoms of ACL injuries include but are not limited to the following:

Inability to continue with any activity
Extreme pain
Loss of range of motion
Instability
Swelling

To accurately diagnose an ACL injury, physical examination and checking for swelling and tenderness will be done. The knee’s overall function will also be assessed.

While making a diagnosis can be done based merely on the physical examination, some tests will be required to rule out other possible causes and gauge the severity of the ACL injury.

Below are some of the possible tests that will be required:

X-rays – X-rays are often requested when your attending doctor would like to check for possible bone fractures.
Ultrasound – in order to check for any tendon, muscle, or ligament injuries, an ultrasound will be required. An ultrasound will employ sound waves to visualize the internal structures of the knee.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – MRIs make use of radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create images of the body’s soft and hard tissues. It is deemed an effective tool if the doctor would like to gauge the full extent of an ACL injury and check for other signs of possible damage.

Although prompt and proper first aid care can significantly reduce the swelling and pain caused by an ACL injury, other treatment alternatives might be required, depending on the severity.

Other treatment options include:

Rehabilitation

ACL injury treatment will often entail weeks of rehabilitative therapy

ACL injury treatment will often entail weeks of rehabilitative therapy.

Physical therapists will teach patients recommended exercises that can be performed at home or under their continued supervision.

In some instances, crutches are recommended so less stress and strain are placed on the knees. A brace might also be recommended to help stabilize the affected knee.

The primary goals of rehabilitation include muscle strengthening, reduction of swelling and pain, and restoration of full motion range.

Physical therapy can be very effective in treating an ACL injury if the patient is relatively inactive, does not engage in sports that put stress on the knees, and is only engaged in moderate exercises and recreational activities.

Surgery

Surgery is a likely treatment alternative given the following circumstances:

More than one ligament or cartilage is injured
The patient is young and active
The patient is an athlete engaged in sports that entails jumping, pivoting, and cutting
The injury makes the knees buckle even when performing daily activities

During an ACL reconstruction, ligaments that are damaged are removed. The damaged ligaments are replaced by a segment of tendon. The procedure is commonly known as grafting.

The surgeon will use the tendon taken from another part of the knee or it will be taken from a deceased donor. The graft will function as a scaffolding, where the new ligament tissues will grow.

Rehabilitative surgery will often start after surgery. Successful reconstruction of the ACL is often followed by rigorous rehabilitation.

This is done to ensure the knee’s function and stability are restored.

Oftentimes, athletes with ACL injuries can already engage in their sports after eight to twelve months.

ACL injuries should not be taken for granted. If you suspect an ACL injury, get expert help from the specialists at www.bjios.sg right away.

February 1, 2017 0 comments

Trigger finger is an excruciating condition that causes the finger or the thumb to catch or lock up when bent

Body injury surgery

Trigger Finger Surgery: Why is it Necessary?

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

Trigger finger is an excruciating condition that causes the finger or the thumb to catch or lock up when bent.

Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger occurs when the tendons in the finger or thumb becomes inflamed.

The tough tissue bands that connect the muscles and the bones are called tendons.

Together, the tendons and the muscles in the hands and arms bend and straighten the fingers and the thumbs.

Typically, the tendon will just easily glide through the tissue covering or the sheath because of the synovium.

It is the lubricating membrane surrounding the joint.

However, there will be instances when the tendon becomes inflamed and swollen.

When this happens, bending the finger or the thumb will pull the inflamed tendon through a tendon sheath that is already narrowed.

This would result to a snap or pop.

Depending on the severity, the treatment option can range from noninvasive options to trigger finger surgery.

Causes

Repeated movements and forceful use of the finger or thumb is often the culprit for trigger finger

Repeated movements and forceful use of the finger or thumb is often the culprit for trigger finger.

Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and gout have also been associated with trigger finger.

There are several factors that increase one’s risk of developing the condition.

Some of the factors include the following:

Repeated gripping – occupations and hobbies that entail repetitive hand use and prolonged gripping.
Health problems – people with diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are more at risk of developing trigger finger.
Sex – trigger finger is more common in women than in men.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of trigger finger include the following:

A bump or a nodule
Tenderness
Finger catching or locking
Difficulty or inability to straighten the affected finger
Finger is locked in bent position
Stiffness of the affected finger especially in the mornings
Popping and clicking sensation when the affected finger is moved

Diagnosis

When diagnosing trigger finger, no elaborate testing is required.

Checking the medical history and a physical examination would often suffice.

During the examination, the patient will be asked to close and open the hand.

This is done so the doctor can easily check for signs of locking.

The physical examination will also allow the doctor to check for lumps, areas of pain, and smoothness of motion.

Lumps associated with trigger finger will move together with the finger since it is attached to the tendon.

Treatment

Medications

NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen and naproxen) are often recommended to provide relief from pain.

However, NSAIDs won’t be able to relieve the inflammation and the swelling.

Therapy

Noninvasive treatment approaches for trigger finger include the following:

Rest – patients whose hobbies or work entail prolonged grasping and repetitive gripping, resting for at least 3 to 4 weeks will be recommended.
Ice or heat – some individuals notice an improvement when icing the palm several times a day. Others on the other hand, observe an improvement when warm-water soaks are done first thing each morning.
Splint – splinting the affected finger for at least 6 weeks might be recommended to help ensure it stays in an extended condition.
Stretching exercises – in order to maintain mobility of the affected finger, doctors will most likely recommend gentle exercises.

Surgery and Other Procedures

For conditions that are severe and does not respond to conventional treatments, the following treatment routes might be suggested:

Percutaneous Release – after numbing the palm, the doctor will then insert a needle into the tissue in order to help break the constriction. This procedure is done under ultrasound so damage to the tendon and other nerves will be avoided.

Trigger Finger Surgery – the procedure is done by cutting open the constricted tendon sheath section through a small incision made in the base of the finger affected. This procedure is often carried out in the operating room.

Don’t put up with the pain and discomfort trigger finger brings. Visit www.bjios.sg to know how to effectively manage the condition and treat it for good.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

Body health

Physiotherapy: What are the Benefits?

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

In essence, physiotherapy is carried out with the purpose of restoring both movement and function for individuals affected by injury, illness, and disability.

It is also done in order to help ensure any risk of future illnesses and injuries are avoided.

Who needs it?

Physiotherapy is beneficial for people suffering from conditions that affect the:

Joints, soft tissues, bones – sports injuries and neck, back, and shoulder pain.
Brain and nervous system – movement problems due to stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Circulation and heart – rehabilitation after a heart attack.
Lungs and breathing – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic

What are the main approaches?

Physiotherapists make use of different treatment and preventative approaches depending on the condition being treated.

Three key approaches are often used in physiotherapy—movement and exercise, manual therapy, and education and advice.

In other instances, however, other techniques (i.e. acupuncture and ultrasound treatment) are used.

Manual Therapy

The technique where physiotherapists utilize their hands to mobilize, massage, and manipulate body tissues is called manual therapy

The technique where physiotherapists utilize their hands to mobilize, massage, and manipulate body tissues is called manual therapy.

This technique can help:

Provide pain relief and minimize stiffness
Improve blood circulation
Significantly improve movement
Promote relaxation

Movement and Exercise

To help improve both the patient’s mobility and function, movement and exercise are recommended.

The following are often included in this approach:

Activities that involve moving the entire body (i.e. walking and swimming). This is considered helpful for patients recovering from operations or injuries that affect mobility.
Exercises that are designed to help enhance movement and strength of specific parts of the body.
Therapies (hydrotherapy or aquatic) that promote relaxation and support to the muscles and the joints. Hydrotherapy also effectively provides resistance so patients can regain strength gradually.

Education and Advice

When necessary, physiotherapists will provide insights and pointers that can help improve the well-being of the patient.

Advice is also given to help ease pain and help ensure the risk of future injuries are minimized.

For example, patients suffering from back pain will likely be given advice on proper lifting and carrying techniques as well as good posture.

What are the key benefits of physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is used to address orthopedic conditions in adults, infants, children, and the geriatric population.

Some of the most common orthopedic disorders treated using physiotherapy include amputation, arthritis, sports injuries, fractures, post-operative conditions, and neck and back pain.

Treatment course will often involve therapeutic exercises that will help enhance motion range, strength, joint mobilization, and endurance.

In majority of the cases, patients are also provided training in the use of ambulation devices to help restore and enhance movement.

Individuals afflicted with neurological disorders (i.e. spinal cord injury, strokes, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, etc.) often takes up a big percentage of a typical physiotherapist’s workload.

Case in point: a stroke patient experiencing hemiparesis (weakness on one side of the body) or hemiplegia (paralysis on one side of the body) can surely benefit from physiotherapy.

Oftentimes, interventions for abovementioned scenarios will focus on reeducation, muscle transfer, training in the use of mobility aids, and enhancement and restoration of gait, among other things.

Patients suffering from cardiopulmonary conditions can also take advantage of physiotherapy interventions.

For instance, patients who experience shortness of breath, decreased endurance, and those who are having difficulty doing their daily routines are provided help through guided exercises and resistance training.

Also, physiotherapy intervention will most likely include behavior modifications and educating the patient so recurrence of the condition in the future can be effectively avoided.

Children with cerebral palsy can also greatly benefit from physiotherapy.

For starters, physiotherapy can help keep spasticity and deformity to a minimum and enhance postural control.

It also helps improve functional dependence by helping them become proficient in the use of assistive devices.

If you can benefit from the expertise of a competent physiotherapist, visit www.bjios.sg now and tell them how they can help.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

pediatric orthopaedics is the specialty that treats bone defects that are acquired, genetic-related, and those that occur during gestation

Body health

Problems Commonly Seen by Pediatric Orthopaedics

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

Simply put, pediatric orthopaedics is the specialty that treats bone defects that are acquired, genetic-related, and those that occur during gestation.

Orthopaedic conditions are prevalent among children.

Those children with congenital bone diseases and those who are suffering from musculoskeletal or developmental conditions can also benefit from the expertise of a pediatric orthopaedics specialist.

Some of the most common pediatric orthopaedic conditions among children are the following:

Foot

Hypermobile pes planus

While this condition often gets resolved when the child turns 6 years old, flexible feet is very common among children.

When symptoms of the condition will manifest, ankle stretch exercises and foot orthoses are often recommended.

Pes cavus

Pes cavus is a condition characterized by a high arch and will not respond to weight bearing.

Treatment approach can include physical therapy, orthotics, and in some cases, surgery.

In most cases however, the treatment approach used will depend on the condition’s severity.

Planovalgus deformity

While quite common, this condition is associated with cerebral palsy.

In ambulatory children, calcaneal lengthening will most likely be recommended to help correct deformities that are considered mild to moderate.

In non-ambulatory children suffering from a severe case of the condition, a high relapse rate is observed and surgery will often not help much.

Tarsal coalition

Common symptoms of this condition include a painful flat foot and calf muscle spasm.

Fortunately, tarsal coalition can be treated using noninvasive alternatives like casts and shoe inserts.

Severe cases of the condition however will often require surgery.

Toes

This condition will often affect the fourth and the fifth toes

Curly toes

This condition will often affect the fourth and the fifth toes.

The condition is also considered hereditary.

In most cases, no symptoms will manifest for curly toes.

Thankfully, as much as 50 percent of cases are resolved as soon as the child turns 3 or 4 years old.

Otherwise, surgery will be recommended.

Hammer toe

This condition will often affect the second toe.

When the condition becomes painful, surgery might be the likely option.

Ingrowing toenail

A condition known as paronychia develops when the edge of the nail grows into its surrounding soft tissue.

Treatment can range from noninvasive alternatives like warm soaks and antibiotics to diverse surgical procedures.

Polydactyly

This condition is considered one of the most common among the many foot deformities.

Severity of the condition can range from soft tissue duplication to major skeletal abnormalities.

In severe cases, surgical intervention might be the recommended treatment route.

Knee

Patellar subluxation and dislocation

The typical treatment for this congenital disorder is immobilization.

However, surgery might be recommended in chronic cases.

Popliteal cyst or Baker’s cyst

Treatment option for the condition is often noninvasive.

In cases however where there is an underlying knee derangement, arthroscopy will most likely be required.

Tibial apophysitis

This condition will often respond very well to conservative treatment alternatives like bracing, activity modification, and orthotics.

Discoid lateral meniscus

The malformation of the lateral meniscus is considered congenital.

If the condition becomes too bothersome, surgery will be recommended.

Hip

Developmental dysplasia

This condition is a spectrum of disorders that affect the acetabulum, proximal femur, and the hips.

Long-term morbidity can be avoided given that the condition will be detected early.

Transient monoarticular synovitis

Known as the common cause of limping, this condition also often develops after a respiratory infection.

Treatment options for the condition can often include physiotherapy, rest, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.

Perthes’ disease

This condition is considered an idiopathic avascular necrosis affecting the femoral head.

Typical treatment intervention for the condition will often include analgesia, bed rest, and bracing.

In some cases however, a procedure redirecting the femoral head’s ball known as femoral varus osteotomy will be required to correct the condition.

If your child has an orthopaedic condition that needs expert attention, head to www.bjios.sg now.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

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