When it comes to injuries that affect the bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments, orthopedic surgeons are the specialists to see. Orthopedic surgery is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Dr. J. Michael Bennett is one of the leading orthopedic surgeons, and his website Dr. J. Michael Bennett provides valuable information about orthopedic injuries and treatments. Here are some of the most common injuries treated by orthopedic surgeons.
Fractures
A fracture is a break in the bone that can be caused by trauma, such as a fall or a car accident, or by overuse, such as in the case of stress fractures. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat fractures, from non-displaced fractures that require immobilization to complex fractures that require surgery to repair. Orthopedic surgeons may also work with physical therapists to help patients regain function and mobility after a fracture.
Torn Ligaments
A ligament is a tough, fibrous band of tissue that connects bone to bone and stabilizes joints. Ligaments can be torn or damaged due to trauma or overuse, and the most common sites for ligament injuries are the knee and ankle. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat torn ligaments using a variety of techniques, including rest, physical therapy, and surgery. For example, ACL tears in the knee often require surgical reconstruction to restore stability to the joint.
Torn Tendons
Tendons are tough, fibrous bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. Tendons can be torn or damaged due to trauma or overuse, and the most common sites for tendon injuries are the shoulder, elbow, and ankle. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat torn tendons using a variety of techniques, including rest, physical therapy, and surgery. For example, rotator cuff tears in the shoulder often require surgical repair to restore function to the joint.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the joints. There are many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis (wear and tear on the joints), rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder), and gout (a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints). Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat arthritis using a variety of techniques, including medication, physical therapy, and surgery. For example, joint replacement surgery may be recommended for advanced cases of osteoarthritis.
Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the small sacs of fluid (bursae) that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near the joints become inflamed. Bursitis can be caused by overuse, trauma, or infection. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat bursitis using a variety of techniques, including rest, ice, medication, and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the inflamed bursa.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, is compressed as it passes through the wrist. This can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat carpal tunnel syndrome using a variety of techniques, including bracing, medication, physical therapy, and surgery. Carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended for severe cases.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is a condition that occurs when the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow) become inflamed due to overuse or trauma. This can cause pain and weakness in the forearm and hand. Orthopedic surgeons can diagnose and treat tennis elbow using a variety of techniques, including rest, ice, medication, physical therapy, and surgery. For severe cases of tennis elbow, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and relieve pressure on the tendons.
Orthopedic surgeons are skilled specialists who can diagnose and treat a wide range of injuries and conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. If you are experiencing pain, weakness, or limited mobility due to an injury or condition, make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to explore your treatment options.
