Tag:

Injury

bunion is the term given to the bony bump that develops at the big toe’s base
Bodysurgery

Bunion Surgery: What are the Benefits

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

In essence, bunion is the term given to the bony bump that develops at the big toe’s base.

Wearing of footwear that is too small or narrow is considered one of the most common culprits of the painful condition.

There are more cases of bunions in women than in men.

When the condition does not respond to noninvasive treatments, surgery might be recommended to correct the deformity.

Removal of the bunions is sometimes referred to as bunionectomy, hallux valgus (Latin term for “foot deformity”) removal, or bunions surgery.

Bunion Surgery

To help alleviate the pain brought about by bunion, some wear shoes that are larger than their feet size.

Others find comfort when wearing protected pads.

Unfortunately, there will be instances when even making significant lifestyle adjustments won’t be able to improve the condition.

In similar scenarios, bunions surgery might become the best treatment option.

Some cases that might require bunion surgery can include the following:

  • Patient experiences severe pain. The pain and discomfort can make the performance of daily routine and activities extra challenging.
  • Patient can no longer walk without experiencing pain.
  • The big toe is still swollen and painful even after proper rest and medication.
  • Straightening or bending the toe is no longer possible.

For patients who are possible candidates for bunion surgery, discussing the condition as well as the procedure with the doctor is highly recommended.

A discussion with the doctor is important so both parties can decide on the kind of surgery to be performed to correct the condition.

To accurately diagnose the condition, an X-ray of the affected foot might be recommended.

While unknown to many, there are more than 100 different types of bunion removal procedures that can remove the bunion and realign the big toe.

However, oftentimes, the kind of bunion removal surgery will depend on the progression as well as the size of the bunion.

Preparation

Before the surgery, it will be likely that patients will be asked to undergo a few tests to assess their overall health status.

A cardiogram (to check heart function), X-ray of the lungs, blood and urine tests might also be suggested to check for other possible underlying conditions.

Patients taking blood thinning and other medications will most likely be asked to refrain from doing so at least a few days before the scheduled surgery.

After the surgery, patients are often already allowed to go home once the anesthesia has worn off.

Fasting might also be recommended but it will be determined based on the starting time of the scheduled procedure so it would be best to check with your doctor on this.

As a general rule of thumb, it would be best to ask for a list of dos and don’ts and make sure you strictly adhere to them so likely complications that will arise can be avoided.

Procedure

In most cases, general anesthesia will not be required during bunion removal surgery

In most cases, general anesthesia will not be required during bunion removal surgery.

Oftentimes however, a local anesthetic known as ankle block will be given.

It works by numbing the area situated below the knee.

The surgeon will proceed with the bunion removal and other necessary repairs once the knee is numb.

While there are several types of bunion removal surgeries, the following are three of the most common:

Osteotomy

The joint of the big toe is cut and realigned.

Exostectomy

No alignment is done but removal of the bunion is performed.

Arthrodesis

Metal plates or screws are used to replace the damaged joint and to correct the deformity.

Patient will be taken to the recovery room right after the surgery.

The blood pressure and heart rate will also be monitored while waiting for the anesthesia to wear off.

Fortunately, in most cases, patients can already go home after a couple of hours or so.

Recovery

Recovery from the surgery will usually take 6 to 8 weeks.

However, it will take at least 4 to 6 months for full recovery to take place.

Patients will have to wear a surgical boot or a cast for at least 2 weeks after the procedure.

For more information about bunion and the procedure appropriate for your case, visit www.bjios.sg now.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
When the cells in the body divide abnormally and uncontrollably, they can turn into a mass or lump
Bodybone

Bone Tumors: What are the Different Types?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

When the cells in the body divide abnormally and uncontrollably, they can turn into a mass or lump.

This mass or lump is called a tumor.

Tumors that form in the bones are called bone tumors.

Tumors that are not cancerous are called benign.

However, even if a benign bone tumor is often considered harmless and is not likely to spread to other parts of the body, it may still need to be treated.

While harmless, there is a tendency for benign bone tumors to grow.

The growth may result to compression of healthy bone tissues.

However, it is unfortunate to note that not all bone tumors are benign.

Some are classified as cancerous or malignant.

Left untreated, the cancer can end up spreading to other parts of the body.

Causes

While no direct causes of bone tumors have been identified, some of the likely culprits of the condition include radiation treatments, genetics, and bone injuries.

Symptoms

Some of the telltale indicators that signal the presence of bone tumors include but are not limited to the following:

  • Dull ache felt in the bone affected
  • Swelling at the tumor site
  • Fevers
  • Night sweats
  • Occasional pain that will eventually become severe and constant

Benign bone tumors

When the cells in the body divide abnormally and uncontrollably, they can turn into a mass or lump

Some of the most common benign tumors include:

Giant cell tumors

The kind of tumor often affects adults and can grow aggressively.

Giant cell tumors also often affect the bone’s rounded end.

This type of bone tumor is considered rare.

Osteochondromas

As far as benign bone tumor goes, this type is considered one of the most common.

In fact, this kind accounts for at least 40 percent of benign bone tumors.

The condition is also common among adolescents and teenagers.

This type of benign bone tumor also often manifests in the upper end of the upper bone (humerus), the lower leg’s upper end (tibia), and the thigh bone’s lower end (femur).

Echondroma

This condition occurs when a cartilage cyst grows in the bone marrow.

Echondroma often affects the long bones of the arm and the thigh as well as the hands and the feet.

Aneurysmal bone cyst

Aneurysmal bone cysts are characterized by blood vessel abnormality.

However, this condition often begins in the bone marrow and the cyst can grow rapidly.

Aneurysmal bone cysts can also be destructive as it can affect the growth plates.

Fibrous dysplasia

This condition is attributed to a gene mutation that will make the bones fibrous, making them more prone to fracture as a result.

Nanossifying fibroma unicameral

Considered as the only true cyst of the bone, this condition often occurs in the leg.

It’s also very common among adolescents and children.

Malignant bone tumors

Some of the most common types of malignant bone tumors include:

Chondrosarcoma

This condition is common among older and middle-aged adults.

This type of bone cancer also often occurs in the shoulders, hips, and the pelvis.

Osteosarcoma

Common among adolescents and children, osteosarcomas often manifest around the hips, shoulder, and the knee.

The condition is otherwise known as osteogenic sarcoma.

Secondary bone cancer

Essentially, this means the cancer started somewhere in the body but eventually spread to the bone.

This condition is common among older adults.

Cancers that originate in the prostate, lung, kidney, breast, and the thyroid gland often spreads to the bones.

Ewing sarcoma family of tumors (ESFTs)

This condition is common among adolescents.

However, in some cases, the tumor affects children as young as 5 years old.

ESFTs often develop in the skull, ribs, backbone, upper arms, and pelvis.

Apart from the bones, ESFTs can also manifest in soft tissues like the muscles, fat, and the blood vessels.

This condition has been observed to spread rapidly and are more common in females.

For more information and expert help on the care and management of bone tumors, head to www.bjios.sg now.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
an ACL injury occurs when the anterior cruciate ligament or the ACL (one of the major ligaments in the knee) is torn
Bodyinjury

ACL Injury: Is Surgery Necessary?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

In essence, an ACL injury occurs when the anterior cruciate ligament or the ACL (one of the major ligaments in the knee) is torn.

ACL injuries often result from sports that involve drastic directions and sudden stops like football, basketball, downhill skiing, volleyball, soccer, and gymnastics.

Treatment options can range from rehabilitation and rest to surgery, depending on the severity of the ACL injury.

The following are some of the primary goals of ACL surgery:

  • Keep function loss to a minimum
  • Restoring normal (or at the very least close to normal) knee stability
  • Prevent injury and degeneration of other structures of the knee

Although surgery will not be necessary for all ACL tears, the patient and doctor will decide if rehabilitation and surgery will be best or rehabilitation alone would suffice.

Surgery is often the recommended option in the following scenarios:

  • The ACL has been completely or partially torn, making the knee unstable.
  • The patient wants to again participate in sports that will require knee strength and stability.
  • The patient would be willing to commit to a long and rigorous rehab program.
  • The patient has already gone through a rehabilitation program yet the knee is still unstable.
  • The patient has a chronic ACL deficiency and the condition already affects the patient’s quality of life.
  • Other knee parts (i.e. cartilage, tendons, meniscus) has also been injured.

Oftentimes, surgery is not required in the following cases:

  • The tear is minor and responds well to rest and rehab.
  • The patient is not involved in any job or sports that will require a knee that is stable.
  • The patient can commit to a complete rehabilitation program that can help stabilize the knee and strengthen the leg muscles.
  • The patient is suffering from other conditions that will make the ACL surgery risky.

While ACL surgeries are generally safe, there are still certain complications that can result from surgery and rehab

While ACL surgeries are generally safe, there are still certain complications that can result from surgery and rehab such as:

  • Damage to the nerves, structures, and blood vessels in and around the knee
  • Blood clots in the legs
  • Infection in the incisions
  • Kneecap grating
  • Stretching, loosening, and re-injury of the scar tissue
  • Pain

ACL surgery can mean reconstructing or repairing the ACL.

  • ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the ligament using a graft.

Autograft is the most common.

In essence, it means making use of the patient’s own body parts like the patellar tendon or the hamstring.

  • Aliograft is another option, with the tissue taken from a deceased donor.

ACL repair surgery is performed when an avulsion fracture occurs.

This kind of fracture happens when a piece of the ligament and bone has been separated from the rest of the bone.

The procedure involves reattaching the bone fragment to the bone.

ACL injuries are performed by orthopedic surgeons.

In most cases, it is done by inserting surgical instruments through small incisions in the knee.

The method is called arthroscopic surgery.

In other instances, the procedure is carried out through large knee incisions.

The procedure is known as open surgery.

Many orthopedic surgeons prefer arthroscopic surgery over open surgery due to the following reasons:

  • It has lesser risks
  • Working and seeing the knee structures is a way easier
  • The incisions are smaller
  • It can be performed at the same time as a diagnostic arthroscopy

Arthroscopic surgery is performed under regional or general anesthesia.

It is also an outpatient procedure so patient will not be required to spend time in the hospital.

While swelling and numbness of the affected area will likely manifest after the surgery, it will eventually disappear after a few days.

If you are a candidate for ACL surgery, please visit www.bjios.sg for expert help.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
The calf muscles are attached to the calcaneus or the heel bone by the Achilles tendon
Bodyinjury

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

The calf muscles are attached to the calcaneus or the heel bone by the Achilles tendon.

The Achilles tendon is also used when walking, jumping, running, and standing on the balls of one’s feet.

In some cases, continuous and intense physical activities (i.e. running, jumping, etc.) can result to an inflamed Achilles tendon.

This painful inflammation is known commonly as Achilles tendinitis.

What are some of the causes of Achilles tendinitis?

In most cases, excessive exercise and walking are considered the likely culprits.

That being said, it does not come as a surprise that the condition is very common among athletes.

However, in some instances, factors that are not associated to exercise have also been known to contribute to the risk.

For example, rheumatoid arthritis and infection have been believed to be correlated to the condition.

Basically, repeated activities that put strain and stress to the Achilles tendon can cause the condition to manifest.

Other likely causes of Achilles tendinitis can include the following:

  • Exercising without proper warm-up.
  • Engaging in sports that entail hasty stops and direction changes like football, tennis, basketball, etc.
  • Doing repeated exercises and other physical activities that put a strain on the calf muscles.
  • Wearing ill-fitting footwear.
  • Wearing high heels for really long periods.

What are the risk factors for Achilles tendinitis?

Certain factors have been known to increase one’s risk of Achilles tendinitis

Certain factors have been known to increase one’s risk of Achilles tendinitis including:

  • Age – Achilles tendinitis is more likely to happen more often as one ages
  • Sex – the condition is more common among men than in women
  • Physical problems – more stress and strain is placed on the Achilles tendon when one has a flat arch. Tight calf muscles and obesity can also put unwanted strain to the tendon.
  • Training choices – running on hilly terrains and wearing worn out footwear has also been known to increase the possibility of Achilles tendinitis.
  • Medical conditions – people with high blood pressure and psoriasis are more predisposed to the condition compared to their healthier counterparts.

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis?

Primary symptoms of the condition include pain in the posterior part of the heel and swelling.

The pain becomes especially evident when running or walking.

Other likely symptoms include stiffness and tenderness of the affected area, limited motion range, and tightened calf muscles.

When the skin on the heel becomes overly warm, it can also be a telltale indicator of the condition.

How is Achilles tendinitis diagnosed?

For the condition to be diagnosed accurately, the doctor would ask a few questions regarding the pain and the swelling.

The doctor will also likely ask the patient to stand on the balls of the feet.

This is performed so the doctor can assess the range of motion and flexibility.

To gauge where the pain and swelling is most intense, the doctor will have to palpate the area directly.

When necessary imaging tests may be ordered but most of the time, they are considered unnecessary.

What are the treatment options for Achilles tendinitis?

There are plenty of treatment options available for patients suffering from Achilles tendinitis.

Treatment approach can range from medications (ibuprofen), steroid injections, and surgery.

The following might also be recommended:

  • Lessening physical activities
  • Stretching and strengthening the calf muscles
  • Physical therapy
  • Icing the affected area after exercise and when in pain
  • Wearing of a brace or compressive elastic bandage to keep heel movement to a minimum
  • Elevating the area affected to reduce swelling
  • Taking anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin
  • Getting steroid injections
  • Engaging in sports that is not strenuous

If the condition will not respond to treatment options that are not invasive, surgery might be recommended.

Oftentimes, surgery will be performed to repair the tendon.

When left untreated, the condition can complicate and may result to an Achilles rupture.

For proper management of Achilles tendinitis, visit www.bjios.sg right away!

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodybonehealthinjury

Common Pediatric Orthopaedic Conditions

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Pediatric orthopaedics is the specialty that treats acquired or genetic-related bone defects and diseases that develop during gestation.

Children who are born with congenital bone diseases can use the help of a pediatric specialist.

Musculoskeletal and developmental disorders can also benefit from the expertise of pediatric orthopaedics specialist.

While some conditions correct themselves without treatment, other cases can become severe when not given the proper medical attention.

Enumerated below are some of the most common pediatric orthopaedic disorders:

Legs

Internal femoral torsion

This condition is considered one of the most common cause of in-toeing in children that are aged 2 years old and above.

Fortunately, the condition can be treated by correcting an abnormal sitting position.

Genu valgum (knock-kneed)

This condition is usually benign and will often correct itself when the child turns 8 years of age.

However, if the condition will still persist until the child turns 10, surgery might be required.

Genu varum (bow-legged)

This condition is often the result of a posterior hip capsule that is tightened.

When it does not get resolved when the child turns 2, osteotomy might be necessary.

Internal tibial torsion

This condition is considered the most common cause of in-toeing in children 2 years old and below.

Fortunately, once the child starts walking, the condition will resolve itself.

Toes

Hammer toe

Typically, this condition affects the second toe.

When it becomes painful, surgery might be recommended.

Ingrowing toenail

This condition occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the soft tissue surrounding it.

Depending on the severity, the condition can be managed through noninvasive treatments (warm soaks and antibiotics) to surgery.

Polydactyly

This condition is considered very common.

Severity can range from minor soft tissue duplication to severe skeletal abnormalities.

In most cases, the likely treatment recourse for polydactyly is surgical removal.

Curly toes

This condition often affects the fourth and the fifth toes.

Inherited in most cases, this condition does not often manifest any symptoms.

Fortunately, as much as 25 to 50 percent of curly toe cases get resolved by the time the child turns 3 or 4 years of age.

Otherwise, surgery will be necessary.

Hip

Developmental dysplasia

This spectrum of disorders often affects the acetabulum, proximal femur, and the hips.

Early treatment and detection helps prevent long-term morbidity.

Septic arthritis

This condition is often the result of Staphylococcus aureus.

Treatment alternatives can include drainage, emergency aspiration, arthroscopy, and debridement (with antibiotic cover).

Transient monoarticular synovitis

This condition is considered one of the most common causes of limping.

It also often develops right after a respiratory infection.

Treatment alternatives can include rest, physiotherapy, and NSAIDs.

Perthes’ disease

This condition is often characterized by the femoral head’s idiopathic avascular necrosis.

Treatment interventions will usually include analgesia, bed rest, and bracing.

Surgery to redirect the head of the femoral ball (femoral varus osteotomy) will be required in some cases.

Foot

Planovalgus deformity

This condition is usually associated with cerebral palsy.

In ambulatory children with mild to moderate deformities, calcaneal lengthening is often the treatment recourse.

In non-ambulatory children with deformity that is severe, surgery might not be of any help and relapse rate is high.

Pes cavus

This condition is associated with a high arc that does not flatten even with weight-bearing.

Treatment alternatives can include physical therapy, surgery, and orthotics.

The treatment option chosen will depend on the severity of the condition.

Talipes equinovarus

Different abnormalities of the tibia, fibula and the bones located in the foot form a composite disorder called club foot.

Treatment option can include manipulation, splinting, casting, and surgery.

Is your child suffering from pediatric orthopaedic conditions? Please visit www.bjios.sg for proper management and help.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodybonehealthinjury

Limb Salvage Surgery: What Are the Surgical Techniques Used?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

In essence, limb salvage surgery is the kind of procedure done to remove bone and soft-tissue cancers in the limbs.

The procedure is carried out so amputation is avoided.

Goals

Aside from avoiding amputation and removing the cancer, limb salvage surgery is also carried out in order to retain the greatest degree of function available and maintain the patient’s appearance.

While the surgery is often done for bone tumors and bone sarcomas, it is also performed on individuals with soft tissue sarcomas.

Many years ago, the standard care for those patients with cancer in the limbs would often involve amputation of the extremity affected.

Fortunately, thanks to dramatic improvements in imaging methods and surgical techniques, patients no longer have to lose a limb in order to treat the cancer.

Over the years, limb salvage surgery has become the treatment option for patients with chronic degenerative bone and joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, those patients who are candidates for diabetic limb amputation, and those with acute and chronic limb wounds.

Procedure

Also referred to as limb-sparing surgery, limb salvage surgery involves removing the cancer and an inch of the healthy tissue surrounding it.

If the bone has also been removed, it will have to be replaced.

The replacement can come from a donor body (cadaver) or from the body of the patient (autologous transplant).

Eventually, the transplanted bone will grow into the remaining bone.

Chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of both will be used to shrink the tumor before the procedure is carried out.

The operation is done in three stages.

Surgeons will remove the cancer first as well as a margin of the surrounding tissue, a prosthesis or a bone graft is implanted when necessary, and the wound is closed by transferring soft tissue and muscles from other parts of the patient’s body.

Surgical Techniques

Soft tissue sarcomas

Limb salvage surgery is carried out on at least 80 percent of soft tissue sarcomas affecting the extremities.

The surgery will involve removing the tumor, lymph nodes, and the tissues where the cancer has spread.

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

If the soft tissue sarcoma has spread to the lungs, the doctor will remove the original tumor, administer radiation or chemotherapy treatments, and then surgically remove the tumor.

Bone tumors

The malignant lesion and a cuff of normal tissue is removed in the treatment of low-grade tumors alongside any of its components.

In the case of high-grade tumors, bone, muscles, and tissues that are affected will also be removed.

Radiation and chemotherapy may be administered prior or after the surgery.

Radiation may also be administered during the procedure itself.

A special applicator will be placed against the surface where the tumor has been removed.

A tube with radioactive pellets will be exerted at the site of the tumor.

The tubes will have to be removed after several days.

Aftercare

After the surgery, blood flow and sensation in the affected extremity will be closely monitored.

Nurses will also need to watch out for possible signs of complications like pneumonia, deep-vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.

Patients will also be given broad-spectrum antibiotics during the first 48 hours after the surgery.

Antiembolism stockings and prophylactic anticoagulants may also be recommended to ensure no blood clots are formed.

During the first 24 to 48 hours, a drainage tube will be placed in the wound to ensure blood and fluid do not accumulate.

The moment the postoperative pain is less severe, mild narcotics and anti-inflammatory medications will be given.

Is limb salvage surgery the appropriate treatment intervention for you? Visit www.bjios.sg to get trusted guidance from competent professionals.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodybonehealthinjury

Joint Pain Relief Options

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Joint pain can be discomfort, pain, and inflammation from any part of the joint like the tendons, muscles, bone, ligaments, and the cartilage.

In majority of the cases, joint pain is also the term given to arthralgia or arthritis.

Arthritis is characterized by inflammation or pain within the joint itself.

However, joint pain can also be attributed to several other conditions like gout, bursitis, osteoarthritis, sprains, strains, rheumatoid arthritis, and other injuries.

While it affects any part of the body, pain in the knee is the most common, followed by shoulder and hip pain.

As a person gets older, joint pain has the tendency to occur more often.

Joint pain can range from irritating to debilitating.

Acute cases will disappear after a few weeks while chronic cases can persist for several weeks or even months.

Unfortunately, however the short term the pain and swelling can be, it can still affect the patient’s life quality.

For those who are suffering from pain in the joint, some of the common treatment options can include:

Medications

For moderate to severe joint pain, prescription or OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen sodium (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are often recommended for pain relief.

Patients who experience only mild pain san swelling, acetaminophen (Tylenol) will be prescribed.

For joint pains that are severe, a strong opioid medication may be prescribed by the doctor.

Other medication that might be given to help ease the pain can include:

  • Muscle Relaxants – given to combat muscle spasms. Muscle relaxants are often used with NSAIDs for more potent results.
  • Antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs – both interfere with pain signals.

Topical Agents

A substance found in chili peppers known as capsaicin has been known effective in relieving joint pains.

It works by blocking substance P, the substance known to help transmit pain signals.

It also triggers the release of body chemicals that help block the pain.

These chemicals are known as endorphins.

Ben Gay and other topical creams that contain methyl salicylate are also known to provide relief for joint pains.

Injections

When topical and oral medications won’t work, steroid medications might be the next treatment option recommended.

A steroid medication is injected into the joint every 3 to 4 months to help ease the pain.

This treatment route is often recommended for patients with joint disease, tendinitis, and arthritis.

Physical therapy

Physical therapists help patients with joint pain by strengthening the muscles around it, improving the motion range of the patient, and stabilizing the joint.

Techniques like ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, and electrical nerve stimulation may also be used.

For overweight patients, getting rid of the extra pounds might be recommended in order to take pressure off the painful joint.

While exercise is a good and effective way of losing the extra weight, not all exercises will do.

As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended that you stick to low-impact exercises like swimming and bicycling.

Doing low impact exercises is recommended so joint irritation is avoided.

Home Remedies

To relieve short term pain at home, the following are recommended:

  • Protecting the joint with the use of a brace or wrap
  • Resting the joint and avoiding activities that might cause pain
  • Putting ice on the painful joint for at least 15 minutes, several times daily
  • Compressing the joint using an elastic wrap

Applying ice to the joints that are painful have also been proven to relieve both the inflammation and the pain.

Using a heating pad or a wrap several time a day is also considered an effective way to combat muscle spasms around the painful joint.

If joint pain is keeping you from doing your day-to-day activities, please visit www.bjios.sg for help.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodybonehealthinjury

Hip and Knee Replacement: When is It Needed?

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Even if once considered a “high-tech” procedure, joint replacement is now deemed very common.

Statistics indicate that at least more than a million hips and knees are replaced annually.

And that statistic is in the United States alone.

While the figures are no doubt staggering, it is not exactly surprising.

For the right candidates, hip and knee replacement can be a life-altering procedure.

When is the procedure necessary?

While often considered the last resort, hip and knee replacement is deemed the best alternative when the following factors are present:

  • When there is pain and stiffness – it might be time for a new joint when the patient experiences difficulty walking, getting up from a chair, climbing the stairs, and doing routine activities. Also, if pain has persisted for more than 6 months already, a joint replacement surgery might be the best alternative.
  • When it affects the patient’s quality of life – apart from the pain, another key element that needs to be factored in is if the condition already has a significant impact on the patient’s daily routine. Is it limiting what the patient can do? Does it affect the patient’s mood? Does it impact how they go about their day-to-day routine?
  • When there is damage to the bone – X-rays alongside other imaging tests can be used to check if osteoarthritis or any other medical condition has taken a toll on the patient’s joints.
  • When there is obvious deformity – when the patient’s leg has become bowed or the knees have become severely swollen, joint replacement surgery will be the likely treatment option.
  • When other treatment alternatives have become futile – when all the other non-invasive treatment options (injections, medications, devices) have been exhausted, surgery becomes the likely option.

What key elements should be considered?

Even for those who are perfect candidates for hip or joint replacement surgery, it is still necessary that the following key questions are addressed:

Has the possible impact of the procedure already been considered?

The likely effects of surgery on the patient’s life and job should be taken into account.

When necessary, talking to family members and friends will be encouraged so assistance is available while patient is recovering.

Have other perspectives been taken into account?

Just like any surgeries that are major, getting a second opinion would be recommended.

This is especially true for those patients who have any doubts if the procedure is the best recourse possible.

Has the procedure been discussed with the surgeon?

For likely candidates, it is important that the specifics about the procedure will be discussed thoroughly.

If patient has any doubts and queries, they should not think twice about discussing it with their surgeon.

Asking for enlightenment regarding the procedure and what the recovery would be like is also advisable.

Has proper research been carried out?

There are different kinds of joint replacement procedures so doing research and reading up on the matter is recommended.

There are a lot of reliable websites that can provide essential information on the matter so candidates for surgery will have a clear idea of what they will be getting themselves into.

Is there assistance available while recovering?

Recovering from joint surgery when living alone can be very challenging.

For the first few weeks after the procedure, help will be necessary when preparing food, getting dressed, changing the bandage, and moving around.

If no family members or friends will be around to provide assistance, finding a facility where they can rehabilitate would be ideal.

What necessary changes do candidates for surgery need to do?

In order to ensure the best results are achieved, candidates should be willing to commit and work hard prior and post-surgery.

Patients need to also be aware that significant lifestyle need to be made like losing weight, exercising more, quitting smoking, and eating healthier, among other things.

If you think you are a candidate for joint replacement surgery, please visit www.bjios.sg.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodybonehealthinjury

Bone Fractures: Treatment Options

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

 

The medical term given to a broken bone is fracture.

Fractures are very common.

Statistics show that an average person will have at least two fractures in their lifetime.

When the physical force exerted is way stronger than the bone, a fracture will most likely occur.

Types

While there are different kinds of fractures, the main categories are closed, open, non-displaced, and displaced.

Displaced fracture occurs when the bone is snapped into two (or more parts).

However, when there is a crack but the alignment of the bone is still present, it is called a displaced fracture.

When the bone breaks through the skin, it is classified as an open fracture. However, if there is no puncture or wound, it is aptly called a closed fracture.

Other fracture types include:

Greenstick fracture

This type is very common among children. This is also considered an incomplete fracture characterized by a bent bone.

Transverse fracture

This type occurs when the broken piece of the bone is found at a right angle to the bone’s axis.

Buckled fracture

This is also commonly known as impacted fracture. This occurs when the bone ends are driven into each other.

Comminuted fracture

This type occurs when the bone has been broken into several pieces.

Symptoms

Common fracture symptoms can include but are not limited to the following:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Pain (especially when moved or when pressure is applied)
  • Deformity
  • Loss of function

Causes

Fractures often develop as a result of falls, blows, and other traumatic events.

Fractures that are caused by other illnesses like cancer are called pathologic fractures.

The condition weakens the bones and fractures of this kind will manifest without any trauma.

At least 1.5 million of fractures that occur annually is often attributed to osteoporosis.

Diagnosis

In order to accurately diagnose bone fractures, doctors will require X-rays and will have to physically examine the area.

In some cases, however, X-rays will not suffice when checking for fractures.

For instance, in order to diagnose stress, hip, and wrist fractures accurately, a bone, MRI, or CT scan might be recommended.

In other instances, special tests like X-ray of the blood vessels, angiogram, etc. will be necessary to ensure there are no damage on the surrounding tissues.

Treatment

In majority of the cases, immediate medical attention will be required for fractures.

Immobilization of fractures are carried out using a cast or a splint.

In certain cases, traction is used to minimize pain and promote healing.

In cases of open fractures, antibiotics are prescribed to keep infection at bay.

Rehabilitation will also be recommended the soonest possible time even if the cast is still in place.

This is to help ensure stiffness is prevented, muscle tone is maintained, and blood flow is promoted.

Once the cast or splint has been removed, swelling and stiffness can still be experienced in the area surrounding the fracture.

However, in most cases, it will disappear after a few weeks.

It will often take 4 to 6 weeks before strength is regained in the bone.

To play safe, it is advisable to ask the doctor regarding safe activities you can already do.

In most cases, key elements like the type of fracture and the patient’s overall health will be taken into consideration.

Prevention

To ensure bone fractures are prevented, the following measures should be kept in mind:

  • Ensure the stairs are free from objects that can actually cause one to trip.
  • When doing recreational activities, proper safety equipment like helmets, safety pads, etc. should be worn.
  • For patients that are diagnosed with osteoporosis, talk to doctors about calcium supplements and other possible remedies and ask for exercises that can help enhance both strength and balance.

If you suspect you have fracture or a broken bone, visit www.bjios.sg for proper and competent help and guidance.

 

 

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Bodyhealthinjury

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery: The Essentials

by allurewellness
written by allurewellness

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve situated in the wrist.

The condition is characterized by weakness, numbness, and tingling in the hand.

The median nerve together with several other tendons runs from the forearm to the hand and it passes through the carpal tunnel.

The median nerve works by controlling the feeling and movement in the thumb as well as the three fingers except the little finger.

Treatment options will be based on the severity of the condition.

Treatment alternatives can range from non-invasive remedies to carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.

Causes

The primary cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is pressure on the median nerve.

The pressure can be the result of swelling or anything that makes the carpal tunnel smaller.

The swelling can be the result of many causes including:

  • Hand movements that are repeated especially when the wrist is bent
  • Other medical conditions like hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes
  • Pregnancy

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling, numbness, and pain in the fingers or hands.

Some people may also experience pain in the arm, between the hand, and the elbow.

Other symptoms will also manifest in the index, middle, ring finger, and the thumb.

Oftentimes, people experience the symptoms at night.

Shaking the hand has been known to offer relief, albeit just temporary.

Diagnosis

To diagnose the condition, the doctor would most likely ask if you have other health issues like arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.

Patients will also likely be asked about their daily routine or recent activities.

The doctor will also check the feeling, strength, and appearance of the arms, shoulders, hands, neck, and wrists.

When needed, nerve and blood tests may be required.

Treatment

Mild cases of the condition will often respond well to home care treatments.

Home remedies can include:

  • Icing the wrist every 1 to 2 hours (10 to 15 minutes each time).
  • Regularly resting the wrist in between activities.
  • Refraining from doing activities that can cause numbness and pain.
  • Wearing a night splint to take the pressure off the median nerve.
  • Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to minimize the pain and reduce the swelling.

Surgery

While carpal tunnel syndrome surgery is an option, it is only often considered when the symptoms have become so severe that it already affects the quality of life of the patient.

It is also the treatment option considered when the condition does not respond to noninvasive treatment alternatives.

Surgery is also considered when there is obvious loss of feeling or coordination in the hand or fingers, when sleep becomes erratic because of the pain, and when there is reduced strength in the thumb.

However, when nerve damage is seen in the nerve test result, surgery will become the most likely treatment option.

In order to relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, the transverse carpal ligament is cut. This is done in order to relieve pressure exerted on the median nerve.

Two surgery approaches are often used:

Open carpal tunnel release surgery

This kind of surgery will require a longer recovery period and will leave a bigger scar compared to endoscopic surgery.

Endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery

This type of procedure has a quicker recovery period compared to open surgery. And since the incisions are smaller, it will likely heal faster.

Typically, the recovery period will only take 3 months.

While many factors need to be taken into account before endoscopic surgery is resorted to, it is recommended that the surgeon’s experience with the procedure is also considered.

Endoscopic surgery uses very technical equipment so picking a surgeon that has done the procedure numerous times is considered ideal.

If you notice classic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, please visit www.bjios.sg for proper help and guidance.

 

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts