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osteoarthritis or OA develops when the natural cushioning situated between the joints (cartilage) wears away

Knee Osteoarthritis: What are the Stages?

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

Otherwise referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis, osteoarthritis or OA develops when the natural cushioning situated between the joints (cartilage) wears away.

The condition can cause the joints to rub more closely.

The rubbing can result to stiffness, pain, swelling, reduced movement ability, and in some cases, formation of bone spurs.

Osteoarthritis is considered one of the most common types of arthritis.

While OA can develop in young people, the likelihood of developing the condition is higher for those past the age of 45.

Compared to men, women are also more prone to osteoarthritis.

Risk Factors and Causes

Many cases of knee OA are attributed to age.

However, while it is possible that many individuals will experience some degree of osteoarthritis, several factors are believed to significantly increase the risk of the condition developing at an early age.

Some of the most common risk factors for OA include:

Weight

Excess weight can put unnecessary stress and strain on the knees.

Every extra pound can put as much as 3 to 4 pounds of weight on the knees.

Repetitive stress injuries

Individuals whose work entail repetitive activities (kneeling, lifting weights, squatting, etc.) that can cause stress to the joint are more prone to developing OA.

Heredity

Some individuals become more prone to knee osteoarthritis compared to others because of certain genetic mutations.

The condition can also be secondary to inherited abnormalities that affect the bones that surround the knee joint.

Different Stages of Knee Osteoarthritis

OA has 5 stages

OA has 5 stages.

Stage 4 is assigned for severe cases while stage 0 is for healthy and normal knees.

Stage 0

In stage 0, there are no signs or indications of osteoarthritis evident in the knee joint.

The knee joint also functions without any impairment or pain.

Stage 1

Patients afflicted with stage 1 osteoarthritis are most likely to already have bone spur growths albeit very minor.

In essence, bone spurs are the boney growths that occur where the bones meet.

Fortunately, it is very unlikely for individuals with stage 1 osteoarthritis to experience any discomfort or pain as wear on the joint components is often very minimal.

Stage 2

Individuals with a “mild” degree of osteoarthritis are considered to have stage 2 OA.

X-ray results of patients with stage 2 OA may indicate greater bone spur growth but the cartilage size is most likely still considered healthy.

In stage 2 OA, no bone scraping or rubbing is likely to take place as the space between the bones is still considered normal.

There are also no noticeable changes in the joint motion as the level of synovial fluid present is still sufficient.

Stage 3

Those classified with “moderate” OA belong to stage 3.

In stage 3, a notable narrowing of space between the bones is also present.

The cartilage will also likely to already show some damage.

Those with stage 3 osteoarthritis will often experience pain when bending, running, walking, or kneeling.

Joint stiffness may also occur early in the mornings or when sitting for long periods.

Joint swelling might also occur after extended movement.

Stage 4

Patients with “severe” cases of knee OA are classified under stage 4.

Individuals with stage 4 knee osteoarthritis often experience discomfort and pain when walking or moving the joint.

This is also the stage where joint space is significant and the cartilage is almost gone completely.

Patients with stage 4 OA will often experience difficulty moving and severe joint stiffness.

In this stage, the synovial fluid has also been decreased significantly so it can no longer reduce the friction between the moving parts of the joint.

Suffering from knee osteoarthritis?

Ensure the condition is properly managed by heading to www.bjios.sg now.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

Effective Ways to Manage Lower Back Pain

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

Lower back pain is considered by many to be one of those universal human experiences.

In other words, everyone has experienced it at one point in their lives or another.

Lower pain is considered very common in adults between 30 and 50 years old.

Its severity can range from acute to chronic.

Back pain can be attributed to a lot of causes.

However, some of the most common causes include spinal abnormalities (i.e. slipped disk or spinal stenosis), muscle pulls and spasms, and nerve irritation.

Symptoms

Back pain symptoms that will manifest will often depend on the severity of the condition.

In most cases however, it can range from dull ache to stabbing or shooting sensation.

In other cases, those with the condition will notice pain when standing or moving up.

Most cases of acute lower back pain are attributed to injuries from sports or from lifting heavy objects.

If pain in the back persists past the 72-hour mark, seeing an orthopaedic specialist would be considered ideal.

Pain that persists for more than 3 months is already classified as chronic.

Individuals who experience back pain that is severe after a fall or injury should consider seeking immediate medical attention a necessity.

Other alarming symptoms that will require immediate medical attention include:

Fever
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Pain when coughing or urinating
Weakness in the leg

Risk Factors

Many people often experience lower back pain in their 30s

Many people often experience lower back pain in their 30s.

Occurrence of the condition has been noticed to increase as an individual ages.

Apart from age, there are other factors that have been known to increase a person’s risk for lower back pain.

Some of the factors are:

Sedentary lifestyle
Obesity
Jobs that entail lifting of heavy objects

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of the back pain accurately, orthopaedic specialists would most likely ask patients the following questions:

What is the pain like?
When did you first notice it?
What are the symptoms you have noticed?
Do you have a history of chronic back pain?

Treatment

In most cases, recommended treatment option for back pain will depend on the cause of the condition and its severity.

Below are some of the most effective ways used to manage back pain:

Rest

In mild cases, reducing the level of activity at least for a couple of days or more would often do wonders.

Also, putting in the back in a neutral position by putting a pillow under the knees while lying on the back has also been known to help.

Heat or ice

Evidence indicates that using heat packs and ice can significantly increase mobility and alleviate pain.

Placing a bag of ice wrapped in a towel on the painful area is often recommended to help minimize the inflammation.

The procedure should be repeated numerous times each day, at least 20 minutes for each repetition.

For those who prefer heat treatment, taking a warm bath or using a heating pad would be good ideas.

The warmth can help loose the tight muscles that might be one of the causes of the pain.

Surgery

Surgery to resolve severe back pain is very rare.

However, it can become the likely option when all other treatment options that have been exhausted has proved futile.

Surgery can also be the best option in some cases.

For instance, when small disk fragments have disintegrated, they need to be removed surgically to remove pressure on the nerve paths.

In the case of an injured or abnormal vertebrae, fusing it together might be required so the patient can regain mobility.

Generally, surgery of the back is often considered the last resort.

It can only become the ideal treatment option when there is loss of bowel or bladder control, when there is neurological loss, and when all other noninvasive alternatives have proved futile.

Manage low back pain effectively with the help of the specialists at www.bjios.sg.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

Unfortunately, trauma, injuries, and even overuse can result to hand problems

Body surgery

Hand Surgery Recovery: What to Expect

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

While unfortunate to note, there’s no denying the importance of the human hands is often overlooked.

However, the significance of the human hands cannot be overstated.

Routine day-to-day activities like eating, working, dressing, writing, creating art, etc. can become very challenging if not impossible sans functioning hands.

Unfortunately, trauma, injuries, and even overuse can result to hand problems.

Treatment options for hand injuries can range from conventional alternatives to orthopaedic hand surgery.

In most cases, the chosen treatment option will depend on the condition’s severity.

However, while not all hand conditions will require orthopaedic hand surgery, in some instances, it is considered the best option available.

Enumerated below are some of the most common hand conditions that will respond to surgery and what patients can expect during recovery:

Carpal tunnel release

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure is placed on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist.

Pain and numbness are considered two of the most common symptoms of the condition.

To minimize nerve pressure, surgery might be recommended.

Recovery

After the surgery, patient will have to wear a bandage on both the hand and the wrist. This can last for at least a week.

Ten to fourteen days after, stitches will be removed.

By that time, patients are most likely already able to use the fingers and the thumb.

However, doing heavy tasks using the affected hand will still be prohibited.

In majority of the cases, moving the fingers will be required to help ensure the nerve and the tendons do not get caught up in any scar tissue.

While recovery can often occur in less than a month, getting feelings back in the hands will often take much longer.

In some cases, the scar can become painful and sensitive for a few months.

Fortunately, the sensitivity and the ache will eventually go away on its own without any treatment interventions.

Dupytren’s contracture fasciectomy

This condition is characterized by a tissue that forms in the fingers and the palm of the hands

This condition is characterized by a tissue that forms in the fingers and the palm of the hands.

While often not painful, this condition might cause bands to form resulting in curled fingers.

To remove the tissue and release the fingers, surgery is often recommended.

Fortunately, the condition will not require hospitalization so the patient is free to go home at least a few hours after the surgery.

Recovery

While healing of the skin will only take 2 to 3 weeks, it will often take 12 weeks before patient can have full use of the hands.

The hand’s movement and function will be monitored and patients will be taught hand exercises.

While not required in most cases, night splints might be recommended in some cases.

Knuckle replacement (MCP joint)

Metacarpophalangeal (MCP joints) or otherwise known as rheumatoid arthritis of the knuckles may sometimes result to damage and deformity.

Apart from being severely painful, the condition can also reduce hand function significantly.

When using the hand becomes challenging already, surgery to replace the knuckles with artificial joints might be required.

The procedure will help minimize the pain and improve finger positioning.

Recovery

Before rehabilitation can start, resting the hand for a few days after the surgery will be recommended.

Exercises to help move the fingers will also be taught to patients.

Wearing a splint during the day will also be recommended when not exercising.

In some cases, wearing nightly splints (at least for a few months) will be prescribed.

Advice on ways to properly look after the new artificial joints will also be taught to patients.

Tendon repair

Tendon ruptures in the wrist or hand are considered rare.

Most cases are often attributed to rheumatoid arthritis or other kinds of inflammatory arthritis.

Recovery

Patients will need to wait for at least six weeks for the tendons to fully heal before they can use their hands again.

To help protect the tendons while healing, splinting will be recommended.
Know more about hand surgery and what to expect after the procedure at www.bjios.sg.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

The ACL or the anterior cruciate ligament are the tough tissue bands that connect the thigh bone to the shin bone

Body injury surgery

ACL Injuries: Minimally Invasive Surgery

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

The ACL or the anterior cruciate ligament are the tough tissue bands that connect the thigh bone to the shin bone.

The anterior cruciate ligament runs through the knee diagonally and works by giving the joint in the knee the much needed stability.

It also helps control the back-and-forth movement of the lower leg.

Oftentimes, knee injuries occur when playing physically demanding sports like skiing, squash, football, and tennis.

Up to 40 percent of known sports injuries can be traced to ACL injuries.

In cases where damage is extensive, minimally invasive surgery might be recommended.

Tears in the ACL often happen when the lower leg and the knee are twisted or when the lower leg is extended too much.

Other likely causes of ACL injuries include:

Incorrect landings (from jumps)
Collisions (from football tackles)
Drastic stops
Sudden changes in direction

When the ACL is torn, there is a tendency for the knee to become highly unstable.

Losing its full motion range is also possible.

When is surgery needed?

For ACL tears that are minor, conservative and noninvasive treatment options will most often suffice

For ACL tears that are minor, conservative and noninvasive treatment options will most often suffice.

However, if there are multiple tears, immediate surgical intervention is the most likely option to help ensure the knee is stabilized.

Surgery is also often carried out before too much inflammation can occur and cause permanent damage to the joint.

Stitching alone will not be enough to repair ACL tears.

Tissue graft (from the patient or a cadaver) will be required to provide support and facilitate ligament growth.

Fortunately, it is a lot easier for orthopedic surgeons nowadays to gauge the severity of the injury.

When immediate repairs are deemed necessary, a minimally invasive surgery called arthroscopy is performed.

The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia.

The surgeon will also need to make several tiny incisions in the knee.

In order to clean the joint, fluid will be injected.

A fiber optic camera will then be inserted so it can provide detailed images on the television monitor.

The detailed images will help the orthopedic surgeon clearly see the joint parts and determine the steps necessary for the repair.

Years prior, surgeries of the knee are often classified as open surgery and will often entail at least a week-long stay in the hospital.

Several months will also be required for full recovery to take place.

Fortunately, patients can perform day-to-day routines more quickly with procedures that are minimally invasive.

Knee arthroscopy is also carried out to:

Trim the pieces of the broken cartilage
Remove or repair the cartilage that works as cushion in the meniscus (the space situated between the knee bones)
Repair the bone fractures found in the knee
Repair the lining of the knee or the synovium
Remove the fluid-filled sac that can manifest in the back of the knee (Baker’s cyst)

Preparations

Before the surgery, the following will most likely be suggested:

Discussing bleeding disorders or other medical conditions with the surgeon.
Taking a blood sample just in case a transfusion of blood will be necessary.
Letting the doctor know if you have colds, fever, herpes breakout, flu or other conditions that might cause rescheduling of the surgery.
Taking ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Iopidogrel (Plavix), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), and other blood thinners should be stopped.

On the day of the procedure, the following will most likely be recommended:

Eating and drinking after midnight should be avoided especially if general anesthesia will be administered.
Should be in the hospital on the time scheduled.
Taking medications provided with only a small water sip.

After the surgery, patients can expect the following:

They will be asked to go home after only a few hours.
They will have to use crutches when necessary.
Since the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery will be faster. However, in some instances, the complexity of the repair and the severity of the condition may affect the length of the recovery.

If you are a candidate for minimally invasive surgery for an ACL injury, get expert help from the able specialists at www.bjios.sg now.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

In essence, microsurgery is surgery performed on very small structures

Body surgery

Microsurgery: Basic Principles

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

In essence, microsurgery is surgery performed on very small structures (i.e. nerves and the blood vessels).

Specialized instruments under a microscope are also used for the procedure.

Microsurgery makes use of techniques like blood vessel repair and organ transplantation.

The aforementioned techniques have been used since the twentieth century’s early part.

Microsurgery techniques have also been utilized by several surgical specialties.

For instance:

Ophthalmologists (eye doctors)

Performs microsurgery to remove cataracts, carry out corneal transplants, and treat glaucoma and other eye conditions.

Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors)

Uses microsurgeries when working on the small and delicate structures of the inner ear or when carrying out work on the vocal chords.

Gynecologists and urologists

Reverses tubal ligations and vasectomies using microsurgery principles.

Plastic surgeons

Reconstructs damaged or disfigured skin, tissues, and muscles using microsurgical techniques.

Other specialties

Performs microsurgery to replant or reattach amputated body parts to replace a new one (for instance, a lost or damaged thumb is replaced with a great toe).

Equipment Used in Microsurgery

The key functions of microsurgical equipment include magnifying the operating field and providing instrumentation

The key functions of microsurgical equipment include magnifying the operating field and providing instrumentation.

The equipment used are designed to make precise maneuvering feasible and to make operating on barely visible structures possible.

Essential instruments used in microsurgery include microsurgical instruments, micro suture materials, and the microscope.

Microscope

Microscope that is used in microsurgery is either mounted on the ceiling or on the floor.

It also comes designed with a moveable arm so manipulating its position becomes relatively easier.

A set of lenses and a high-intensity light source are used to view the surgical site.

A video camera is used so other members of the surgical team can view the surgical site on a display screen.

Ideally, a five to forty times (5–40x) magnification is used in microsurgical procedures.

Instruments

Compared to traditional surgical instruments, those used in microsurgery have distinct differences.

Aside from its capability to delicately manipulate barely visible structures, microsurgical instruments also come with handles that are large enough so handling them comfortably and securely is possible.

Instruments often utilized in microsurgery include:

Needle holders (for suturing)
Forceps
Vessel dilators
Standard surgical tools
Scissors
Irrigators

Suture Materials

In microsurgery, suturing or stitching is carried out utilizing needles and threads that are specialized.

The diameter or gauge of the threads can vary in size.

When choosing the apt thread to be used, the procedure that will be performed as well as the tissue that needs to be sutured will be taken into account.

In most cases, threads with 9–0 to 12–0 gauges are used in microsurgery.

Suture threads can also be non-absorbable or absorbable.

They can also be made from natural materials or synthetic ones.

The type used will depend on the procedure as well as the tissue that needs suturing.

Suture needles come in diverse sizes and shapes.

They also have different point types.

Generally, however, the needles often used are less than 0.15 mm in diameter.

Training

Surgeons will have to undergo extensive training and practice before they perform microsurgery.

Know-how on basic anatomy and surgical techniques will also be required.

Surgeons will also be taught how to hold the instruments properly, how to lessen hand tremors, ways to maintain proper posture when performing microsurgical procedures and maintaining visual contact when using the microscope, among other things.

A set of essential techniques have to be mastered by the surgeon as they are often utilized in microsurgery.

These basic techniques include nerve grafting and repair, vessel repair, and vein grafting.

When already very proficient in the basic skills needed for microsurgery, more advanced techniques will be taught, including treating specific conditions.

For more information about microsurgery and if it is the right option for you, check www.bjios.sg right now.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

The procedure performed to remove bone cancers and soft tissue in the limbs is called limb salvage surgery

Body surgery

Limb Salvage Surgery: Who Needs It?

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

The procedure performed to remove bone cancers and soft tissue in the limbs is called limb salvage surgery.

The procedure is also otherwise known as limb-sparing surgery.

Limb salvage surgery is done in order to avoid amputation.

Goals

Some of the primary goals of limb salvage surgery include:

Avoiding amputation
Removal of cancer
Preservation of appearance
Maintaining the greatest possible degree of function

While often carried out in tumors and bone sarcomas, limb salvage surgery is also an option in soft tissue sarcomas affecting the extremities.

Nowadays, the procedure has become the ideal alternative to amputation.

It has also become the recommended treatment option for cancers that spread slowly (from the limb to other body parts), or those cancers that have not spread to the soft tissues yet.

Years prior, the usual treatment route of those patients with cancer in the limbs is amputation of the extremity affected.

Fortunately, nowadays, patients no longer have to lose their limbs in order to treat the cancer.

This development can be credited to numerous factors—survival rate of patients treated using chemotherapy, advanced imaging methods (CT scans and MR), and remarkable improvements in surgical techniques both resection and reconstruction, to name a few.

In recent years, limb salvage surgery has also become one of the recommended option for patients with chronic bone and degenerative conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Likewise, it has also become one of the treatment options for those patients that are considered candidates for diabetic limb amputation and those with chronic and acute limb wounds.

Diagnosis

Before your doctor will decide if limb salvage surgery is apt, the following key factors are taken into consideration:

Type of cancer
Its size
Its location
The cancer’s progression
Age of the patient
Overall health of the patient

When recommended, doctors will make sure the patient understands the likely outcome of the surgery.

While proven effective, there is still that possibility that the implant will fail and additional surgery might be required.

In some cases, amputation might become an option.

Physical and occupation therapists can also help patients who are candidates for limb salvage surgery.

Preparation for the surgery may include introduction of exercises that can help strengthen the muscles and ambulation (walking).

ROM or range of motion exercises patients would need to do after the operation will also be taught.

Procedure

Limb-sparing surgery involves not just removing the cancer but also at least an inch of the healthy tissue surrounding it.

Chemotherapy, radiation, or in some cases, a combination of both might be recommended to shrink the tumor before the procedure is performed.

Limb salvage surgery has 3 stages:

The cancer as well as a margin of healthy tissue is removed.
Bone graft is performed or prosthesis is implanted when necessary.
Wound is closed by transferring soft tissue or muscle from other parts of the body.

Surgical Techniques

Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Nowadays, a staggering 80 percent of cases of soft tissue sarcomas affecting the extremities are treated through limb salvage surgery.

The procedure entails removing the limb nodes, tumor, and the tissues where the cancer has spread.

An inch of the healthy tissue surrounding the tumor will also be removed.

For cases of soft tissue sarcomas that has spread to the lungs, the procedure will involve removing the original tumor, shrinking the lung tumor through chemotherapy or radiation, and surgically removing the lung tumor.

Bone Tumors

Treating low grade bone tumor and its components, doctors will remove the malignant lesion alongside a cuff of the healthy tissue.

Aftercare

Generally, patients will have to remain in the hospital for 5 to 10 days after the procedure.

Sensation and blood flow of the extremity affected will be monitored.

The hospital stay is also required to help ensure the patient does not develop any life-threatening complications like pneumonia, deep-vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.

Know more about limb salvage surgery and what it can do for you by visiting www.bjios.sg.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

Pain, inflammation, and discomfort on any joint part (tendons, bone, muscles, and ligaments) is typically referred to as joint pain

Body injury

Joint Pain: What are the Common Symptoms?

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

Pain, inflammation, and discomfort on any joint part (tendons, bone, muscles, and ligaments) is typically referred to as joint pain.

In most cases however, joint pain is also the term given to arthritis or arthralgia—a condition associated with inflammation or pain from within the joint itself.

Pain brought about by the condition can be mild (where soreness manifesting only after an activity) or it can be severe.

In severe cases, even limited movement can cause excruciating pain.

Causes

Some of the most likely causes of pain in the joint include but are not limited to the following:

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Complex regional pain syndrome
Septic arthritis
Polymyalgia rheumatic
Tendinitis
Reactive arthritis
Sarcoidosis
Rickets
Sprains
Strains
Osteoarthritis
Leukemia
Paget’s disease of the bone
Lupus
Leukemia
Bursitis
Avascular necrosis
Meralgia paresthetica
Bone cancer
Gout
Hyperthyroidism
Dislocation
Adult Still’s disease
Broken bone
Ankylosing spondylitis

In majority of the cases, joint pain is relatively harmless and will respond to home-care remedies.

However, a doctor’s visit would be needed if the following symptoms will occur:

Swelling
Redness
Tenderness

Visiting the doctor is also required if the joint pain is the result of an injury and the following symptoms manifest:

Severe pain
Sudden swelling
Joint deformity
Inability to use the joint

Treatment

Before the right treatment approach for the condition is identified, doctors would first need to accurately diagnose the cause of the condition

Before the right treatment approach for the condition is identified, doctors would first need to accurately diagnose the cause of the condition.

Regardless of the chosen treatment option, the primary goals remain the same—alleviating the pain, minimizing the inflammation, and preserving the joint’s function.

Some of the treatment options for joint pain include the following:

Medications

Joint pains that are classified as moderate to severe (with swelling), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (i.e. aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen) and over-the-counter painkillers might be recommended.

However, taking OTC medications should be done with caution especially if patient is an avid drinker as it might result to liver damage.

If pain that manifests is severe and won’t respond at all to NSAIDs, a strong opioid medication might be given.

Since opioid drugs can result to drowsiness, it is recommended that they are used only upon the doctor’s recommendation.

Yet another possible side effect of opioid medication is constipation.

Fortunately, it can easily be remedied through the use of laxatives.

Other medications that are known to help alleviate joint pain include:

Muscle relaxants made to combat muscle spasms. These muscle relaxants are sometimes taken with NSAIDs in order to maximize pain relief.
Some antidepressant and antiepileptic drugs. These medications do their job by interfering with the pain signals.

Physical Therapy

Working with a physical therapist is also an option for those who have joint pain.

The therapist will be using different techniques—manipulation, ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, and electrical nerve stimulation—in order to strengthen the muscles, improve the patient’s range of motion, and to stabilize the joint.

For those patients that are obese and suffering from joint pain, losing weight will be recommended to help ensure pressure and strain on the joints will be minimized.

However, it is recommended that they stick to exercises that are low-impact like swimming and bicycling in order to avoid irritating the joint even further.

Injections

For joint pain that does not respond to oral or topical mediations, a steroid medication might be prescribed.

Together with a local anesthetic, steroid medication will be directly injected into the joint.

The procedure is done every 3 to 4 months.

Steroid injections are often the recommended treatment options for those who are suffering from tendinitis, joint disease, and arthritis, among others.

For joint pain that is persistent, get expert help from the specialists at www.bjios.sg right away.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail grows into the skin as opposed to over it

Body hygiene

Ingrown Toenails: Common Symptoms

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail grows into the skin as opposed to over it.

While the condition often only affects the big toe, there are times when it can also develop in the other toes.

While ingrown toenails can affect just about anyone, the condition is more common among adults than in children.

Ingrown toenails are also especially common among older adults.

People with curved or thick nails are also more susceptible to ingrown toenails.

When infected, the affected toenail can become swollen and red and may drain pus.

It can also become extremely painful and uncomfortable.

Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment approach can range from home care remedies to ingrown toenail surgery.

Causes

Some of the most common causes of ingrown toenail include:

Toenails that are unusually curved
Toenails that are cut too short
Wearing of shoes that crowds the toenail
Toenails that are not cut straight across
Toenail injuries

Symptoms

Common signs that indicate ingrown toenail include but are not limited to the following:

Swelling
Tissue infection
Redness around the toenail that is affected
Pain and tenderness on the sides of the nail

Alarming symptoms that will require a visit to the doctor include:

Severe discomfort and pain
Redness that appears to be spreading
Pus in the area affected
If patient has diabetes or other medical conditions that can result to poor blood flow to the feet

Complications

Left untreated or undetected, ingrown toenails can lead to a serious bone infection that might affect the underlying bone

Left untreated or undetected, ingrown toenails can lead to a serious bone infection that might affect the underlying bone.

The condition can also result to severe complications for those who have diabetes.

In some cases, it can even lead to nerve damage.

For patients with diabetes, even a foot injury that is minor in nature—cut, corn, callus, scrape, and an ingrown toenail—may become infected and can lead to other complications.

Appointment

Diabetic patients or those with alarming symptoms and are suffering from ingrown toenails should consider visiting the doctor a must.

Since doctor visits can sometimes be brief, it is recommended that patients come prepared so they can make the most out of the visit.

As a general rule of thumb, preparing a list of questions would be ideal.

Some of the key questions you can ask should include the following:

What are the pros and cons of each treatment option?
What are the possible treatment alternatives?
Is the condition temporary or chronic?
Will the condition heal on its own sans medical intervention?
What results can patients expect after the treatment?
What nail routine should be observed while the toe is healing?

Likewise, the session would be more beneficial if patients come prepared for likely questions the doctor will ask like:

When did the symptoms manifest?
What at home remedies have been tried?
Do you have diabetes or other medical conditions that causes poor blood flow to the legs and feet?

Treatment

Mild cases of the condition will often respond to home remedies.

However, for severe cases, ingrown toenail surgery will most likely be the recommended option.

Nail and tissue removal. If the condition has affected the same toe more than once, the doctor will most likely recommend removing a portion of the nail as well as the nail bed. The procedure can help ensure the affected nail does not grow back.
Partial nail removal. Cases that manifest alarming symptoms like redness, pain, swelling, and pus, the doctor will likely recommend removing or at least trimming a portion of the nail. Before the procedure, an anesthetic will be administered in order to numb the toe that will be operated on.

While ingrown toenails may seem harmless, they can get bothersome and uncomfortable without proper attention and treatment. Avoid ingrown toenail discomfort and pain by checking with www.bjios.sg today.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

While now a common procedure, years ago, joint replacement was once considered high-tech

Body injury surgery

Hip and Knee Replacement: When is it Necessary?

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

While now a common procedure, years ago, joint replacement was once considered high-tech.

In the United States alone, surgeons perform the procedure more than a million times each year.

The staggering figure can be attributed to the enhanced mobility and pain relief only hip and knee replacement surgeries can offer.

Undoubtedly, for the right candidates, hip and knee replacement can be a life altering procedure.

However, surgery is not always the treatment option for those who are suffering from hip or knee pain.

Knee Replacement

Oftentimes, the most likely candidates for knee replacement surgery are those patients who are suffering from osteoarthritis

Oftentimes, the most likely candidates for knee replacement surgery are those patients who are suffering from osteoarthritis.

Understandably, the condition is common in the knees as it bears the weight of the body.

The procedure will be the treatment option resorted to only after all other conventional alternatives have been exhausted.

Just like many major surgical procedures, knee replacement also has certain risks.

Some of the risks include but are not limited to the following:

Heart attacks
Stroke
Infection
Nerve damage
Blood clots (in the lungs or leg veins)

The surgery will be performed by an orthopedic surgeon.

Prior to the surgery, physical examination will be performed to assess the stability, strength, and the range of motion of the knee.

Hip Replacement

In essence, hip replacement is the surgical procedure carried out to remove the hip joint’s damaged parts.

If all other conventional treatment alternatives have proved futile, hip replacement surgery becomes the likely option.

Patients with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis are often likely candidates for the procedure.

Extent of the hip replacement however will be based on the severity of the joint damage.

For those individuals with hip fractures due to osteoporosis, hip replacement is also the likely treatment option.

Oftentimes, the most common reason for the procedure can be attributed to damage brought about by arthritis.

Also known as total hip arthroplasty, hip replacement surgery is often considered the best treatment approach when pain has become so severe and it already interferes with the patient’s day-to-day routine.

Preparation

For individuals who are candidates for hip or knee replacement, asking the right questions is deemed an integral part of the preparation.

If you are a candidate for joint replacement, the following questions should make it to your list:

Is surgery the best treatment alternative available for my case?

Do I have other treatment choices?
After the surgery, how far can I walk without experiencing any pain?
Is surgery the best option for someone my age?
Can I still participate in any sports (i.e. golf, tennis, swimming, etc.) that I enjoy?

What can I do to help ensure the procedure is a resounding success?

Will I be taught muscle strengthening exercises?
Is it recommended that I lose weight before the procedure?
Will it be necessary to learn how to utilize crutches/walker before the surgery?

What home preparations do I need to do?

Do I have to do any rearranging?
What are some of the effective ways I can ensure safety at home?
How much is the extent of help I will be needing?

What are the potential risks and complications of the procedure?

Will blood transfusion be necessary before or after?
What can I do to help minimize the risks?
Which medical conditions (i.e. heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.) have to be monitored?

What is the procedure like?

How long will the surgery last?
How soon after the procedure can I commence with my routine activities?
How long will the hospital stay be?

What preparations am I expected to do the night before the procedure?

When do I stop eating or drinking?
What are the essentials I need to bring?
Are there medications I am supposed to take prior to the procedure?

Joint replacement is not the ideal treatment option for everyone. To know if it is appropriate for your case, visit www.bjios.sg right away.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

$A broken bone or a fracture occurs when the force exerted that is exerted on the bone is more than it can bear$

Body bone

Different Way in Managing Different Fractures

by allurewellness January 31, 2017

written by allurewellness

A broken bone or a fracture occurs when the force exerted that is exerted on the bone is more than it can bear.

Some of the common symptoms of the condition include severe pain and loss of function.

In some cases, bleeding around the site that is injured will also manifest.

There are different types of bone fractures.

Oftentimes, the severity of the condition will depend on several factors such as age, strength and direction of the force, the individual’s overall health, and the specific bone involved.

Some of the most common bone fractures occur in the ankle, wrist, and hip.

Older people however are more prone to hip fractures.

Causes

Some of the most common causes of bone fractures include:

Some cancers (can cause the bones to easily break)
Falls
Vehicle accidents
Sporting injuries
Certain bone conditions like osteoporosis

Symptoms

$While bone fractures are not the same as dislocations, in some cases, it can be difficult to tell one from the other$

While bone fractures are not the same as dislocations, in some cases, it can be difficult to tell one from the other.

Oftentimes, bone fracture symptoms will depend on the bone affected as well as the severity of the injury.

However, the following are some of the common manifestations of bone fracture:

Deformity
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Inability to use the limb affected

Types

There are different types of bone fractures.

The following are some of the most common:

Open or compound fracture – this type occurs when a wound that leads to the fractured site is present. It can also occur when the bone that is fractured juts out. Infection and external bleeding are likely complications that can result from this type of fracture.
Closed or simple fracture – this kind occurs when the bone that is broken does not pierce the skin.
Comminuted fracture – this type will take a long time to heal. The long healing period necessary can be attributed to the fractured bone shattering into small pieces.
Greenstick fracture – this type is often characterized by a slender and small crack. This kind of fracture is also very common among children.
Compression fracture – this fracture type occurs when two bones are forced against each other. The bones of the spine (vertebrae) are more prone to this type of injury. Old people with osteoporosis are also likely candidates.
Hairline fracture – this kind occurs in the foot and the lower leg. Hairline fractures often result from repeated stress and strain from activities like running or jogging.
Complicated fracture – When the injury also affects the surrounding structures of the bone, the condition is called complicated fracture. In most cases, there might be likely damage to the arteries, veins, or the nerves. Injury to the bone’s lining (periosteum) may also occur.
Avulsion fracture – this type often occurs in the knee and the shoulder joints. Avulsion fractures occur when pieces of the bone get pulled out and the muscle contractions wrench the tendon.

However, not all fractures occur only in the legs, arms, wrist, or hips.

Pelvis, chest, head, and spine traumas can also result to fractures in the skull and ribs.

Since these types of injuries are considered life-threatening, first aid treatments alone will not be enough.

Seeking immediate medical attention will be recommended.

Treatment

Diagnosing bone fractures are done using X-rays.

In other cases, computer tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be recommended.

While broken bones will often heal on their own, medical treatment is sometimes necessary to help ensure all the pieces are properly lined up.

In cases that are complicated, surgery, surgical traction, or both might be necessary.

It is also vital that the bone recovers full sensitivity, strength, and movement.

Treatment options for fractures will often depend on severity.

Some of the likely options include:

Splints
Braces
Traction
Plaster casts
Pain relief
Surgically inserted metal rods or plates

Without proper medical attention and management, fractures can worsen. Prevent that from happening by visiting www.bjios.sg right away.

January 31, 2017 0 comments

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