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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

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

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

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

Body injury

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

Body health injury

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

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