Tag:

Injury

Bodyinjury

The Most Common Causes of Shoulder Pain and Shoulder Problems

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

The shoulder is made up of several joints combined with the muscles and tendons. They help the shoulder perform a vast range of motions in the arm—from throwing the perfect pitch to scratching the back. However, mobility has a price. In some cases, it can lead to instability issues and impingement of the bony structures or soft tissue in the shoulder.

Anatomy of the Shoulder

The shoulder is composed of 3 bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). The upper bone’s head fits into the shoulder blade’s rounded socket. The socket is known as the glenoid.

A combination of tendons and muscles keeps the arm bone centered in the shoulder socket. The tissues are known as rotator cuff. The rotator cuff covers the head of the upper arm bone and attaches it to the shoulder blade.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain treatment that will be recommended by the doctor will depend on the cause of the condition. That means frozen shoulder treatment recommended will be different from recommended treatment options for shoulder issues caused by arthritis or fracture.

Most problems with the shoulder are classified into 4 categories:

  • Tendon inflammation or tendon tear (tendinitis or bursitis)

  • Arthritis

  • Instability

  • Broken bone (fracture)

Tendinitis

The cord that connects the muscle to the bone is called the tendon. Tendinitis is often the result of tendon inflammation. There are two types of tendinitis:

  • Acute – Excessive ball throwing as well as other overhead activities can lead to acute tendinitis.

  • Chronic – Degenerative diseases like repetitive wear and tear as well as arthritis can lead to chronic tendinitis.

Bursitis

The small fluid-filled sacs that are found in the joints throughout the body (including the shoulder) is called bursae. They also function as cushions between the overlying soft tissues and the bones. They also work by ensuring there is minimal friction between the bone and the gliding muscles.

In some instances, excessive shoulder use can result in swelling and inflammation of the bursa situated between the acromion and the rotator cuff. This condition is referred to as subacromial bursitis.

Impingement

When the acromion puts pressure on the underlying soft tissues, a shoulder impingement can occur. As the arm is lifted, the acromion can impinge on the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. This scenario can result in tendinitis and bursitis which causes pain as well as limited movement.

Arthritis

Shoulder pain can also be attributed to arthritis. While there are many different types of arthritis, the most common type that develops in the shoulder is osteoarthritis. This condition is also commonly referred to as wear and tear arthritis.

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include stiffness, swelling, and pain. This condition often affects middle-aged individuals. While osteoarthritis can develop gradually, the pain it causes can worsen with time.

Osteoarthritis can be caused by work or sports injuries as well as chronic wear and tear. Other types of osteoarthritis are linked to infection, rotator cuff tears, and joint lining inflammation.

Tendon Tears

The tearing and splitting of tendons can be the result of degenerative changes or acute injury. The tears can be partial or at times, severe enough to completely separate the tendon from the bone. Biceps tendon injuries as well as rotator cuff injuries are considered among the most common.

Instability

Shoulder instability happens when the upper arm bone’s head is forced out of the shoulder socket. This can occur as a result of overuse or sudden injury. Shoulder dislocations can be partial. This condition is called subluxation.

Once the tendons, muscles, or ligaments around the shoulder have become torn or loose, dislocations can happen repeatedly. Recurring dislocations will not only cause pain, it can also result in unsteadiness when the arm is raised or moved away from the body.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Body

What Are Common Causes of Neck Pain?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

The neck is made up of vertebrae that extends from the skull down to the upper torso. It also has cervical discs that are designed to absorb the shock between the bones. The ligaments, muscles, and bones found in the neck support the head and allow it to move. Any injury, inflammation, or abnormalities may result in neck stiffness or pain.

Many people experience occasional neck pain or stiffness. In most cases, it can be attributed to overuse or poor posture. Other times, neck pain can also be caused by whiplash, contact sports, or injury from a fall.

Oftentimes, neck pain is not serious and won’t warrant neck pain treatment. However, if neck pain is severe, lingers for more than a week, and is accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical attention right away is recommended.

There are different options to treat neck pain. However, the cause needs to be determined first before the best treatment can be provided. Fortunately, mild cases of neck pain will respond well to conservative treatments like exercise, pain medications, and massage. Many people who visit their chiropractors also report relief from neck pain.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

Neck stiffness or pain can be attributed to a lot of causes. Some of the most prevalent causes of neck pain include:

Muscle strain and tension

Muscle strain and tension can be due to the following behaviours and activities:

  • Working in the same position for too long

  • Sleeping with the neck in a bad position

  • Poor posture

  • Jerking the neck during exercise

Heart attack

Neck pain can also be one of the symptoms of a heart attack. However, oftentimes, it manifests together with other symptoms such as:

  • Vomiting

  • Nausea

  • Jaw or arm pain

  • Sweating

  • Shortness of breath

  • Injury

The neck can be very vulnerable to injury especially when playing sports, or during falls, and car accidents. In the aforementioned scenarios, the neck’s ligaments and muscles are forced to move outside of its normal range. If the cervical vertebrae (neck bones) are fractured, the spinal cord can also get damaged. Neck injury that occurs due to sudden jerking of the head is called whiplash.

Other causes

Other likely causes of neck pain include:

Osteoporosis. In people with the condition, the bone can weaken and can result in small fractures. While this condition often manifests in the knees and hands, it can also occur in the neck.

Spinal stenosis. This condition develops when the spinal column narrows down and causes pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord as it exits the vertebrae. This condition can also develop due to long-term inflammation caused by arthritis and other conditions.

Rheumatoid arthritis. This condition causes joint swelling, pain, and bone spurs. When this develops in the neck area, neck pain can occur.

Fibromyalgia. This condition causes muscle pain throughout the body especially in the shoulder and neck region.

Spondylosis. When the cervical discs degenerate, spondylosis can occur. This condition is also known as osteoarthritis of the neck. When spondylosis is present, the space between the vertebrae can narrow down. The condition can also add stress to the joints.

Herniated cervical disk. Also known as slipped or ruptured disk, this condition occurs when a disk protrudes due to injury or trauma and puts pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord.

In very rare instances, neck pain and stiffness can be secondary to:

  • Infections

  • Tumors

  • Abscesses

  • Congenital abnormalities

  • Spine cancer

When to See Your Doctor

If the neck stiffness or pain lasts for more than a week, a visit to the doctor is recommended. You should also check with your doctor right away if the neck pain is accompanied by:

  • Fever

  • Headache

  • Nausea

  • Swollen glands

  • Vomiting

  • Tingling

  • Numbness

  • Weakness

  • Lumps in the neck

  • Pain that travels down the legs or arms

  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodyhealth

What is Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) Therapy Used For?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Those who are suffering from chronic back pain and other related symptoms can attest how disruptive and debilitating the condition can be. Many of those who have back pain report they can think of little else except for finding relief for the pain.

Fortunately, nowadays, you can always rely on your chiropractor to provide effective and lasting relief for back pain. One of the primary treatment options chiropractors use to treat back pain is nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy.

Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression Therapy

The spinal column has 23 vertebral disks. These jelly-like cushions are situated between the bones in the spine. During nonsurgical decompression therapy, the spine is gently stretched. The vertebral disks are also pulled apart.

Nonsurgical spinal decompression is a type of motorised traction that can help relieve back pain. It works by gently stretching the spine. The gentle stretching can change the position and force of the spine.

The change will create negative pressure in the spinal disks and take the pressure off of it. As a result, herniated or bulging disks may retract and take pressure off the nerves and other structures in the spine. This also helps promote the movement of oxygen, water, and nutrient-rich fluids into the disks to help them heal.

Nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy is used to treat the following:

  • Neck pain

  • Back pain

  • Sciatica (tingling, pain, and weakness that extends down the leg)

  • Herniated or bulging disks

  • Degenerative disk disease

  • Posterior facet syndrome (worn spinal joints)

  • Diseased or injured spinal nerve roots

  • Pinched or compressed nerves

How Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression is Done

The doctor will fit the patient with a harness around the pelvis and another one on the trunk. Patient will lie face up or face down on a computer-controlled table. The doctor will operate the computer and tailor the treatment to the specific needs of the patient.

Nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy can last from 30 to 45 minutes. Typically, 20 to 28 treatments spread over 5 to 7 weeks is needed. However, your doctor will determine the duration of the treatment depending on the severity of the injury.

Many patients who have tried the procedure reported it was a very relaxing experience.  Some patients even report falling asleep during the procedure.

Depending on the extent of the injury, other treatment alternatives may be recommended to complement the treatment and facilitate the healing process. For instance:

  • Ultrasound (using sound waves to generate heat and promote healing)

  • Electrical stimulation

  • Cold or heat therapy

  • Exercises (may also be recommended to help increase mobility and flexibility and strengthen injured areas)

While considered very effective, nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy is not considered the ideal treatment option for everyone. Check with your doctor if you are a good candidate for the treatment.

For starters, nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy is not ideal for pregnant women. People with the following conditions are also not advised to have nonsurgical decompression therapy:

  • Tumor

  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm

  • Fracture

  • Advanced osteoporosis

  • Metal implants in the spine

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodyhealth

What is Spinal Stenosis and Who are At Risk?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Spinal stenosis occurs when the small spinal canal containing the spinal cord and the nerve roots becomes compressed. The compression can cause “pinching” of the nerve roots and the spinal cord and can result in cramping, weakness, numbness, and pain. Depending on the location of the narrowing, symptoms can be felt in the legs, lower back, shoulders, arms, or neck.

Typically, the narrowing can be attributed to “wear and tear” arthritis or osteoarthritis. Other likely reasons include bulging of the discs that separate the vertebrae and thickening of the ligaments found in the back. Symptoms of the condition often starts gradually but typically worsens overtime.

Who are at risk?

Spinal stenosis can affect both genders and is observed to be common among those aged between 50 and 70. However, the condition can also occur in young people who have experienced spine injury or who are born with a narrow spinal canal.

For people born with a small spinal canal, the condition is called “congenital stenosis.” For spinal narrowing secondary to age-related changes, the condition is called “acquired spinal stenosis.”

Spinal stenosis can also be attributed to certain medical conditions such as bony spurs, osteoarthritis, spinal tumours, ankylosing spondylitis, and Paget’s disease.

What are some of the common symptoms?

Some of the common symptoms of spinal stenosis include:

  • Weakness, numbness, cramping, and pain in the feet, thighs, or legs

  • Abnormal bladder or bowel function

  • Pain that travels down the leg

  • Loss of sexual function

  • Partial or complete leg paralysis (severe cases)

How is the condition diagnosed?

To diagnose and determine the seriousness of the condition, certain test might be recommended, including:

  • X-ray of the spine – done to check for bone spurs, osteoarthritis, or narrowing of the spinal canal.

  • Computed tomography (CT) scan – can take detailed images of the back as well as the spinal canal.

  • Electromyogram (EMG) – done to check the condition of the nerves going to the legs.

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan – can take pictures of the nerves as well as the spinal cord.

  • Blood tests, X-rays of the knees and hips, as well as circulation in the legs to rule out other possible conditions with similar symptoms.

What are some of the treatment options available?

In most cases, conservative treatment is the first option considered. However, in cases where the pain is disabling and severe, surgery might be recommended.

Nonsurgical treatment options

  • Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy – NSSD is considered one of the most effective treatment options for people with spinal stenosis. Computerised and modern machines can help target the areas of the spine and can decompress them to relieve any pressure on the nerves. This treatment option is also considered more potent when combined with other conservative treatment approaches.

  • Chiropractic – specific spinal manipulation where manual or instrument-assisted techniques are used work by helping the joints return to their normal motion range. Good motion has also been known to help reduce pain, minimise muscle spasms and tightness, and improve one’s overall health. Motion can also help the formation of scar tissue that leads to stiffness is minimised.

Surgical treatment options

Surgery for spinal stenosis may involve removing bony overgrowths so pressure and pinching of the spinal nerves is relieved.

  • Spinal fusion – for those with spinal instability or slippage, two or more vertebrae may be fused together permanently using screws to give the spine more stability.

  • Surgical spinal decompression (laminectomy) – in laminectomy, the lamina or the back portion of the vertebra is removed so the nerves and the spinal cord are exposed. Thickened ligaments and bone spurs are also removed.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodysurgery

Chiropractic Treatment: Relieving Knee Pain Without Surgery

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

For those who are experiencing knee pain, even the most basic of activities like climbing the stairs, walking to and from the car, picking up the grocery bags, or even getting out of bed can become painful and challenging. Undeniably, knee pain can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function optimally.

Knee pain can affect people of all ages. It can be the result of an injury (i.e. torn cartilage or a ruptured ligament) or a medical condition such as gout, arthritis, or infection. Minor types of knee pain will often respond well to self-care measures. Other cases however may require chiropractic care and rehabilitation therapy.  Severe cases may require surgical repair.

Symptoms of Knee Pain

The location as well as severity of knee pain can vary from one patient to another, depending on the cause of the problem. Some of the most common signs and symptoms that accompany knee pain include:

  • Instability or weakness

  • Crunching or popping noises

  • Stiffness and swelling

  • Redness and warmth to the touch

  • Inability to straighten the knee fully

Possible Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can be the result of mechanical problems, injuries, certain types of arthritis, foot and ankle issues, and even nerve or muscle irritation from posture or movement abnormalities.

Injuries

A knee injury can affect any of the bursae, tendons, ligaments, and muscles that surround the knee joint. Some of the most prevalent knee injuries include:

  • Muscle imbalances

  • ACL injury

  • Fractures

  • Knee bursitis

  • Patellar tendinitis

  • Torn meniscus

Mechanical Problems

A few examples of mechanical problems that can result to knee pain include:

  • Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome

  • Loose body

  • Hip or foot dysfunction

  • Dislocated or misaligned kneecap

Different Types of Arthritis

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. Some of the varieties that can affect the knee and cause knee pain include:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Pseudogout

  • Gout

  • Septic arthritis

Chiropractic Care and Knee Pain

Nowadays, a growing number of people have undergone knee replacement injury. While the surgical technique has helped many people, it is still considered a costly and invasive procedure. Fortunately, there is a treatment option that can relieve knee pain without surgery for many patients before they reach the point of needing surgery—chiropractic care and rehabilitation.

Recent studies have shown chiropractic adjustments have been beneficial for patients with knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. In another study, patients who have had chiropractic knee adjustments reported substantial drops in pain intensity. Fewer clicking and grinding sensations in the knee were also noticed.

In addition, patients were also able to experience increased mobility and were able to get back to doing daily activities after chiropractic treatment. Not only that, patients who received chiropractic care also reported no adverse effects associated with the treatment.

Licensed chiropractors address underlying issues that are causing knee pain and use a combination of techniques to effectively alleviate pain. Chiropractors have also helped patients with knee pain by improving gait, reducing inflammation, and restoring normal alignment and motion of the joints.

Chiropractors often may use mobilisation techniques and chiropractic manipulation in the areas of restricted movement. In addition, modern technologies like radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) and/or cold laser therapy may be used to address damaged tissues and speed up the healing process.

The combination of chiropractic and rehabilitative methods used have not only been proven effective in reducing knee pain, but by increasing motion and restoring the proper mechanics of the joints and surrounding tissues, can decrease the chances of future wear and tear!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodyhealth

What is Spinal Stenosis and What are the Treatment Options Available?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Anatomy of the Spine

The spine is made of 24 movable bones known as vertebrae. The vertebrae are separated by discs, which act as shock absorbers and prevent the vertebrae from rubbing together.

In the middle of each vertebra is a hollow space known as the spinal canal. The spinal canal contains the spinal cord and nerves, ligaments, and blood vessels. The spinal nerve root canals are surrounded by ligaments and bones.

Spinal Stenosis in a Nutshell

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition characterised by the narrowing of the bony canals where the nerves and the spinal cord pass. The condition can develop gradually over time and can also refer to:

  • Narrowing of the spinal and nerve root canals

  • Stiffening and thickening of the ligaments

  • Overgrowth of the bone and bone spurs

  • Enlargement of the facet joints

While common in the lumbar area, stenosis can also develop along any areas of the spine (lumbar, thoracic, and cervical). Typically, every spinal canal narrows down to some degree with age. However, most people don’t experience any symptoms from a small amount of narrowing.

Common Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms of the condition typically develop over time. However, it can also occur as a sudden onset of pain. Patients may feel a sharp and severe pain or dull ache in different areas, depending on which part of the spinal card has narrowed. The pain can come and go or can occur when performing certain activities such as walking.

Possible Causes of Spinal Stenosis

As one gets older, the bones will undergo degenerative changes that are considered part of the ageing process. Such osteoarthritis is considered one of the common causes of spinal stenosis. However, the rate at which these degenerative changes takes place will vary among different people.

Also, as one ages, the cushioning disc between the vertebrae can start to dry out and shrink. There is also a tendency to lose bone mass. At the same time, bone spurs can also develop. With age and due to stress and strain, the facet joints can also get enlarged. The larger the facet joint becomes, the less space there will be available for the spinal nerve. All of these above issues can collectively contribute to onset of spinal stenosis symptoms.

Stenosis may also be the result of other degenerative conditions like spondylosis or spondylolisthesis, dislocation, traumatic injury, and vertebral fracture. The condition can also occur due to systemic conditions affecting the spine like ankylosing spondylitis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

No medications or treatments can totally cure spinal stenosis. However, non-surgical conservative treatment is the first step to controlling symptoms of the condition for most people. However, in some cases when there is severe and disabling pain or difficulty walking, surgery may be recommended.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options

Some of the best conservative treatment options for spinal stenosis include:

Spinal decompression therapy

Non-surgical spinal decompression (NSSD), or spinal decompression therapy, is a very effective treatment option for patients with spinal stenosis. Modern, computerised machines may help to target areas of the spine which are being compressed by slipped discs and other swollen tissues and slowly decompress them to relieve pressure on nearby nerves. This treatment is especially effective when combined with other conservative treatment approaches.

Chiropractic

Specific spinal manipulation is a treatment option where manual or instrument-assisted techniques are applied to the spine in order to return the joints to their normal range of motion. Good motion can help remove muscle tightness or spasms, reduce pain, improve the function of the nervous system as well as overall health. Motion also minimises the formation of scar tissue which leads to stiffness.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists can recommend proper lifting, walking, and posture techniques. They’ll also encourage patients to stretch and increase the flexibility of the spine and legs.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery for spinal stenosis can involve removal of the bony overgrowth to relieve pressure as well as the pinching of the spinal nerves.

Surgical spinal decompression (Laminectomy)

In a laminectomy, the back portion of the vertebra (lamina) is removed to expose the nerves and spinal cord. Bone spurs and thickened ligaments are also removed. Overgrown facet joints situated directly over the nerve roots may be trimmed to provide more room for the spinal nerves.

Spinal Fusion

For patients with slippage or spinal instability, two or more vertebrae may be joined permanently together with screws to give the spine more stability. This procedure may often done at the same time as a laminectomy. This may protect the segment which has been damaged; however, may contribute to increased stiffness and affect other segments later on.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodysurgery

Possible Complications of Hand Surgery

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Akin to other surgical procedures, hand surgeries also have its share of failures, success, and complications.

That being said, it is imperative for likely candidates for orthopaedic hand surgery to be in the know as to the possible risks and complications involved with the procedure.

Patients who have undergone orthopaedic hand surgery often complain about one issue, presumably one of the most common complications of the surgery—hand stiffness.

Stiffness of the hand encapsulates pretty much all the effects of post-surgery.

In majority of the cases, hand stiffness can be attributed to swelling and immobilization secondary to the injury and the procedure itself.

Fortunately, there are post-surgery guidelines that are priority based in place to help ensure the risk of complications becomes minimal.

Pre-Surgery Priorities

Prior to the surgery, one of the primary priorities is determining the extent of the injury.

Once the severity of the injury has been established, the next management priority would be to fix the damage, reconstruct the affected areas, and preserve as much of the good tissues as possible.

Oftentimes, the patient is let in on the discussion to help ensure the procedure is tailored to their unique and specific needs.

Likely Surgery Complications

Just like other surgeries, certain complications can arise from diverse hand surgeries.

With that in mind, the importance for pre-surgery guidelines to be strictly adhered to cannot be overstated.

Understandably, to significantly minimize the risk of any complications, surgeries are to some extent tailor made for the patient, with all key factors considered, including possible underlying diseases.

Surgery complications are actually more common than people think.

Some of the likely complications that can arise from hand surgery includes:

  • Needle stick injuries
  • Toxic shock syndrome
  • Prior axillary lymphadenectomy
  • Tourniquet palsy
  • Anesthesia complications

Post-Surgery Priorities

After the procedure, the common priority is to ensure there is adequate blood supply so the healing process can take place.

Fortunately, there is revascularization, aggressive debridement, and other techniques to help ensure adequate blood supply is facilitated.

Yet another concern after surgery is the prevention of edema.

However, this aspect can be remedied through elevation of the affected area and proper mobility.

Pain Management

While there is a certain level of discomfort that can be expected after surgery, it is reassuring to know that pain control advancements have made management of pain relatively easier.

Nowadays, there are already many types of medications that can help effectively control post-operative pain.

Some of these medications include opioids, anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, and local anesthetics.

Aside from helping reduce and ease the pain, pain medications can also help ensure patients feel more comfortable as soon as possible.

When there is comfort and pain is minimal, the patient will not only be able to move around sooner but will also regain strength faster.

Below are some of the pain medications used to control pain after hand surgery:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are prescribed to ease mild to moderate pain.

NSAIDs are also often used with opioids to help manage post-surgery pain that is moderate to severe.

Common examples NSAIDs include ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen.

Opioid analgesics

When treating moderate to severe pain, opioids are considered ideal.

It is also used when managing short-term post-surgery pain.

Opioids work by attaching themselves to opioid receptors found in the body and blocking pain transmissions to the brain.

Opioids are also given through different means—by mouth, under the tongue, through the skin or directly into the bloodstream.

Opioids have also been known to work rapidly and will allow patients to be more active during the day and get sufficient rest at night.

If you are a candidate for orthopaedic hand surgery, visit www.bjios.sg right now for expert help.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodysurgery

What Can You Expect Before and After a Minimally Invasive Surgery?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Otherwise known as laparoscopic surgery, minimally invasive surgery or MIS is a surgical procedure that makes use of microscopes and tiny fiber-optic flashlights.

The instruments used in the procedure are inserted in small incisions or ports in the body.

This advanced surgical procedure is preferred by many as it minimizes blood loss and less scarring is involved.

What are other incomparable benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

Reduced scarring – in most cases, closing minimally invasive surgery incisions will only require a stitch or two.

Shorter recovery period – conventional surgeries will usually require six to eight weeks of recovery time. When it comes to minimally invasive procedures however, recovery period can be as short as two weeks.

Enhanced safety – minimally invasive surgeries are deemed safer compared to open surgery as there is less blood loss and trauma.

Shorter hospital stay – majority of the patients are allowed to go home a few hours after the surgery. Conventional surgeries will often involve staying in the hospital for a day or more.

Lower risk for infection – with minimally invasive surgery, risk for infection is significantly minimized as it is less invasive.

Preparing for MIS

Although considered less invasive, preparation is still necessary to ensure the procedure is successful.

Get your preparation on the right track by asking your surgeon the following key questions:

What happens during a minimally invasive surgery?

Know the specifics.

Ask for basics like how long the procedure will likely take, the instruments that will be used (and how many), the number of incisions needed, etc.

List down the things you would want to know about so you will have a much better idea of what you are getting yourself into.

Are there any possible side effects?

While pain is expected after surgery, it might turn out to be somewhere you least expected.

If you are not much of a fun of surprises, it would be best to check with your surgeon as to where you will most likely feel pain and discomfort.

It would also be a good idea to ask as to how long the pain and discomfort will likely last and how it severe it can possibly be.

How long is the likely recovery period?

While most minimally invasive procedures are done on an outpatient basis, some are not.

Ensure you have a clear idea of the needed time for recovery so you can set the right expectations and make preparations in advance.

Check also if you will be needing physical therapy.

Pre-Surgery Preparations

The night prior to the procedure, it would be ideal to take a shower and wash and clean the surgical site.

Alcohol intake is not allowed the day before the surgery.

When necessary, your surgeon will give you specific directions on bowel preparation.

Using creams, moisturizers, lotions, and makeup is also not allowed on the day of the surgery.

There is also a high probability you will be asked to abstain from eating and drinking after midnight prior to your surgery schedule.

Post-Surgery Expectations

Before and After a Minimally Invasive Surgery

After the surgery, you will most likely spend two or three hours in the recovery room.

You will be given antibiotics and pain medications.

Once you are able to move and urinate comfortably, the urinary catheter will already be removed.

As mentioned earlier, most minimally invasive procedures will not require a hospital stay but some may entail that you stay hospitalized for a few days.

Once the dressing incisions have been removed, you will be allowed to take a shower.

Pain medications and other prescriptions will also be given upon discharge. It will also be the ideal time to check with your doctor as to when you can continue with your usual routine without any restrictions.

For more information about minimally invasive surgery and what it can do for you, visit www.bjios.sg now.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodyinjury

Joint Pain: What are Some of the Pain Relief Options?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Discomfort, inflammation, and pain from any joint part (tendons, bone, cartilage, and muscles) is generally referred to as joint pain.

In most cases however, joint pain refers to arthritis or arthralgia—a condition characterized by inflammation or pain within the joint itself.

Joint pain can also be attributed to other underlying medical conditions like osteoarthritis, gout, bursitis, sprains, strains, and other injuries.

While it has been known to affect any part of the body, the knee is considered the most common area affected, followed by the shoulder and the hips.

In most cases, joint pain becomes more prevalent as one ages.

Joint pain can range from irritating to debilitating.

It can also disappear in a few weeks (acute) or it can last for several weeks to several months (chronic).

However, it is unfortunate to note that even short-term pain and swelling can already significantly affect the patient’s quality of life.

Treatment Options

Fortunately, patients who are suffering from joint pain have plenty of treatment options that can ease joint inflammation and pain available at their disposal.

Some of these options are:

Topical agents

A substance called capsaicin (can also be found in chili peppers) have been known to effectively relieve joint pains.

The substance works by blocking substance P (transmits pain signals). It also triggers endorphin release, a chemical that helps block pain).

Topical creams with methyl salicylate (Ben Gay) can also provide relief for pain in the joint.

Medications

When joint pain is moderate to severe, prescription or OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen sodium (Aleve), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) are often prescribed.

For mild pain sans swelling, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often recommended.

For those suffering from severe joint pain, a strong opioid medication might be given.

Other medications know to alleviate joint pain include:

Antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs – works by interfering with pain signals.

Muscle relaxants – works by combating muscle spasms and often used with NSAIDs to provide maximum pain relief.

Injections

If the joint pain does not respond to topical or oral remedies, steroid medications will be recommended.

Every 3 to 4 months, the steroid medication will be injected directly into the joint to provide much needed relief.

This treatment alternative is often considered ideal for those who are suffering from joint diseases, arthritis, and tendinitis.

Alternative treatments

Certain studies indicate that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements will not only help alleviate joint pain but will also significantly improve function.

These supplements can come in the form of a capsule, liquid, powder, or tablet.

While not all who suffer from joint pain find relief from this alternative form of treatment, many are willing to give it a try as it has no known side effects.

Physical therapy

Physical therapists help patients suffering from joint pain by strengthening the muscles, enhancing the motion range, and stabilizing the joint.

Techniques used often include ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, and electrical nerve stimulation, among others.

Patients who are overweight will also be advised to lose the extra pounds as it can help take strain and stress off the joint.

While exercise would be an effective way to get rid of the excess weight, sticking to low-impact exercises is considered ideal. This is necessary so irritating the joint further is avoided.

Home remedies

Short-term joint pain will often respond to the following home care remedies:

  • Protecting the affected joint using a brace or a wrap.
  • Resting the joint and not doing activities that might trigger or cause pain.
  • Icing the affected area for at least 15 minutes, several times each day.
  • Compressing the joint using an elastic wrap.

While some cases of joint pain are harmless, others can be the result of some underlying condition. To play safe, visit www.bjios.sg right away.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodyhealthhygiene

Effective Ways to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Ingrown toenails or onychrocryptosis is the condition where the nails (usually that of the big toe) digs and grows deep into the edges of the nails instead of outside.

Ingrown toenails can be very painful and are often characterized by swelling, redness, and inflammation.

The condition can also be attributed to numerous causes. To know some of the most common causes of ingrown toenail, click here.

When infected, it can be uncomfortable and can make moving around highly uncomfortable.

While seemingly harmless, ingrown toenails should not be taken lightly or left unattended.

Treatment course for the condition will often depend on the severity.

For instance, in mild cases, conventional treatment may suffice.

For severe cases (especially if infection is already involved), and ingrown toenail surgery might be more apt.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can keep ingrown toenails from occurring, some of which are mentioned below:

Be extra careful when trimming your toenails. The same caution should also be exercised even if you are having other people trim your nails for you at the salon. Don’t trim your nails so close to the nail bed as this might result to a wound that will eventually lead to infection. Ideally, do trim your nail right across. Also, ensure you do not cut too low.

Always wear comfortable footwear. At all times, ensure you wear shoes that fit properly and have enough room for your toes to breathe. Footwear that put too much pressure on your toes may cause your nails to grow into the tissue instead of outwards. This can make a world of difference especially if you already have foot problems to begin with.

Keep toenails at reasonable length. Keeping your toenails at good length is not only hygienic but it can also minimize pressure on the toes. It can also help ensure the nails do not dig in the surrounding tissues. Also, if your job puts your feet at risk for damage or injuries, make sure you wear appropriate shoes that help guarantee they are protected at all times.

Make it a habit to check your feet. Checking your feet on a consistent basis is especially vital if you have other medical conditions (i.e. diabetes) that can prevent faster healing. In line with this, make it a habit to regularly check for any signs of ingrown toenails and other foot issues.

While ingrown toenail surgery is oftentimes not the first option, it is often the recommended resort when the risk of complications becomes high.

When visiting your podiatrist or doctor, ensure you come prepared and you have all the bases covered.

Get your preparation off to a superb start by asking your doctor or surgeon the following questions:

  • What are other likely treatment options?
  • What are the pros and cons of each option?
  • It is okay to wait if the condition goes away sans treatment?
  • Is ingrown toenail surgery necessary?
  • Is the condition temporary or long-term?
  • What nail care routines are recommended while healing?

Ingrown toenails are often not a cause of worry as long as attended to right away. Sans proper treatment however, it can go differently. To keep any discomfort and complications at bay, make sure the condition is given proper attention and treated accordingly and ensure you get treatment from the specialists at www.bjios.sg.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts