When it comes to bone, joint or muscle issues, consulting an orthopaedic surgeon can be a game-changer. Orthopaedic surgeons are medical professionals who specialise in diagnosing, treating and managing conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles.
In Singapore, where healthcare standards are high, orthopaedic surgeons play an essential role in restoring mobility and quality of life for individuals facing musculoskeletal problems. Learn about the role of an orthopaedic surgeon and the common conditions they treat in this article.
An orthopaedic surgeon is a doctor who has undergone extensive training to specialise in musculoskeletal health. Typically, they have completed years of medical school, followed by a residency in orthopaedic surgery and pursue further fellowship training in specific areas.
In addition to their expertise in surgical techniques, orthopaedic surgeons are skilled in non-surgical treatments like medication, physical therapy and lifestyle changes to manage musculoskeletal conditions. They work closely with other healthcare professionals such as physiotherapists, radiologists and pain management specialists to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
An orthopaedic surgeon can treat a wide variety of conditions that affect the bones, joints and soft tissues.
1. Joint Disorders: Whether it is arthritis, inflammation or degeneration, an orthopaedic surgeon can offer treatments ranging from medication to joint replacements for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
2. Sports Injuries: If you’re an athlete or active individual, injuries such as fractures, sprains and ligament tears (e.g., ACL tears) are common. An orthopaedic knee specialist can treat knee injuries, while an orthopaedic shoulder specialist is well-equipped to manage shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears and dislocations.
3. Fractures: Broken bones require immediate attention to ensure proper healing. An orthopaedic surgeon will align bones and may perform surgery if necessary, particularly for complex fractures.
4. Spinal Disorders: Conditions such as herniated discs, scoliosis and spinal stenosis can cause severe pain and mobility issues. These conditions are often treated by an orthopaedic surgeon through physical therapy or surgery depending on severity.
5. Deformities and Congenital Conditions: Conditions like clubfoot or congenital hip dislocation, which are present at birth, may require surgical intervention and ongoing care by specialists in orthopaedic surgery.
6. Tendon and Ligament Injuries: Injuries to tendons and ligaments, such as tendonitis, tears or sprains, are frequently treated by orthopaedic surgeons through a combination of rest, therapy and surgery if needed.
An orthopaedic surgeon’s approach to treating musculoskeletal conditions is methodical, starting with the least invasive options and progressing to more complex treatments if necessary.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how an orthopaedic surgeon helps individuals with musculoskeletal conditions:
1. Initial Consultation and Assessment: The process begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms and physical condition.
2. Non-Surgical Treatments: For many musculoskeletal conditions, conservative, non-surgical treatments are the first line of action. The orthopaedic surgeon may recommend physical therapy, medications to manage pain and inflammation and lifestyle changes to improve mobility and prevent further damage. Rest and activity modification may also be suggested to reduce strain on the affected areas.
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures: If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, an orthopaedic surgeon may opt for minimally invasive procedures. These procedures are commonly used for conditions such as ligament repairs or joint-related issues, offering faster recovery and less pain.
4. Surgical Interventions: When conservative measures and minimally invasive treatments are not enough to resolve the problem, surgery may be necessary. The orthopaedic surgeon performs more complex operations such as joint replacements (e.g., hip or knee), fracture fixation or tendon repairs. These procedures are aimed at addressing significant damage, restoring function and improving quality of life.
5. Rehabilitation and Recovery Support: Following surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon plays a key role in the rehabilitation process. This involves developing a tailored recovery plan that may include physical therapy, guidance on movement restrictions and regular follow-ups to monitor progress.
6. Personalised Care and Ongoing Monitoring: An orthopaedic surgeon tailors treatments to meet the specific needs of each patient. This ensures that the care plan addresses the individual’s unique condition and goals. Regular follow-up appointments allow the surgeon to monitor recovery, make adjustments to the treatment plan and ensure long-term success.
Navigating the healthcare system to find the right orthopaedic surgeon for your needs can often be overwhelming. Whether you are dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries or a complex musculoskeletal condition, having a trusted guide to help you make informed decisions is invaluable.
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