Orthopaedic specialists are highly trained to manage complex issues that go beyond the scope of general practitioners (GPs). See more: https://www.coveorthopaedics.com.sg/conditions-we-treat/foot-ankle/.
While your GP can address common conditions, they may refer you to an orthopaedic specialist when your symptoms persist or become more severe. Specialized care is often preferred as it can prevent long-term complications and encourage faster recovery.
This is especially true for conditions that require surgery or advanced therapies. The expertise of an orthopaedic in Singapore can be invaluable in restoring your mobility and improving your quality of life.
Table of Contents
What Is Considered an Orthopaedic Condition?
Orthopaedic conditions refer to a wide range of disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system. These issues may result from injuries, wear and tear, or degenerative diseases.
In many cases, orthopaedic issues develop gradually over time. However, they can also develop as a result of acute injuries.
If left untreated, many of these conditions may worsen, and cause chronic pain or disability. Common orthopaedic conditions include:
- Fractures and Dislocations
Fractures occur when a bone breaks, while dislocations happen when a joint is forced out of its normal position. These injuries are typically caused by trauma from accidents, falls, or sports-related incidents.
Prompt treatment is critical to ensure proper bone alignment and healing, which may include casting, surgery, or physical therapy. Without timely treatment, fractures may fail to heal correctly.
This means that you may then be left struggling with long-term pain and deformities. Also, dislocations, if untreated, can damage surrounding tissues and increase the risk of chronic instability or arthritis in the affected joint.
- Arthritis
Arthritis is a degenerative condition that leads to inflammation of the joints. Often, it results in pain, swelling, and stiffness.
It is especially common in older adults, although it can affect people of all ages. Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form and involves wear-and-tear damage to cartilage.
And, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the joints. Your orthopaedic in Singapore can help you manage arthritis through medication, physical therapy, or procedures like joint replacement, to restore function and reduce pain.
- Tendonitis and Bursitis
These conditions involve inflammation of tendons and bursae, respectively. Tendonitis is often caused by repetitive motion, such as typing or sports activities.
And, bursitis is linked to overuse or direct trauma. Both conditions can cause significant pain and swelling.
Depending on their impact on you, they can limit movement in the affected area. Treatment typically includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. If left untreated, chronic inflammation may lead to tendon rupture or permanent joint damage.
- Torn Ligaments or Muscles
Ligament and muscle tears are common sports injuries. Often, they involve sudden twisting or overextension.
A torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) in the knee or a rotator cuff tear in the shoulder are prime examples. These injuries cannot only severely limit mobility.
They often require immediate orthopaedic care. Treatments may range from physical therapy to reconstructive surgery, depending on the severity of the tear.
- Spinal Disorders
Spinal conditions, like scoliosis (a curvature of the spine), herniated discs, or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), can cause chronic back pain. They’re also known to cause nerve compression, and reduced mobility.
Left untreated, these conditions can worsen and in the end cause nerve damage or even disability in extreme cases.
If you’re referred to an orthopaedic in Singapore for spinal disorders, you can count on a knowledgeable provider for a tailored treatment plan. Just so you know, treatments can range from physical therapy and medication to surgical procedures like spinal fusion or disc replacement to relieve pain and restore function.
When Should I Seek an Orthopaedic Specialist?
There are several clear signs that indicate you need specialized orthopaedic care. Here are the key instances when you should consider seeing an orthopaedic in Singapore:
- Chronic or Severe Pain
Orthopaedic specialists are often consulted when pain becomes unbearable or persistent. Chronic musculoskeletal pain, especially in the bones, joints, or muscles, that lasts for more than a few weeks is a red flag.
If the pain limits your ability to perform daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or lifting objects, it’s time to see an orthopaedic specialist. You do not want to ignore the pain as it could lead to worsening conditions or irreversible damage.
- Injuries from Trauma
Acute trauma, like fractures, dislocations, or severe sprains, requires immediate attention from an orthopaedic specialist. These injuries often result from falls, accidents, or sports activities.
They must be treated promptly to avoid complications like improper bone healing. A trained orthopaedic in Singapore can assess your injury and provide treatments like casting, surgery, or physical therapy to ensure a full recovery.
- Limited Mobility
Difficulty moving or stiffness in your joints, back, or limbs can be a sign of an underlying orthopaedic issue. If you’re having trouble performing simple movements like bending, stretching, or walking without pain or discomfort, it’s best to see a specialist.
Limited mobility could result from joint damage, muscle strain, or degenerative diseases. All of these situations may need targeted treatment to restore flexibility and function.
- Non-Healing Soft Tissue
Injuries, like tendonitis or sprains, typically heal with rest and basic care. However, if these injuries do not improve after a few weeks, or if they continue to cause discomfort during everyday activities, you may benefit from a consultation with an orthopaedic in Singapore.
Tailored treatment is key because untreated soft tissue injuries can develop into chronic conditions that are difficult to manage. Depending on severity, they may require advanced treatments like injections or even surgery for you to heal properly.
- Joint Instability
This condition often presents as a sensation of your joint “giving way.” The joint may also just start feeling loose. This issue is common in the knees, ankles, or shoulders and can be caused by ligament tears or cartilage damage.
Orthopaedic care is vital in these cases to prevent further damage and ensure the joint stabilizes. Surgery or bracing may be recommended to strengthen the affected joint.
- Post-Surgical Care or Complications
While very effective and helpful, orthopaedic surgeries like joint replacements or fracture repairs, require careful follow-up care to ensure proper healing. If you’ve had surgery and experienced complications like swelling, infection, or stiffness, please revisit your orthopaedic specialist.
Depending on the surgery you had, you may need urgent specialized care to prevent further complications and improve recovery outcomes. Also, any visible deformities in the alignment of your bones or joints—whether from surgery, birth defects, injury, or conditions like scoliosis—should be evaluated.
In Closing
Orthopaedic conditions can range from mild discomfort to severe injuries. Knowing when to seek specialized care is crucial for maintaining your long-term health. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned on this page, don’t hesitate to consult an orthopaedic expert for evaluation and treatment.
Consult our orthopaedic specialists in Singapore today to regain your mobility and improve your quality of life. Details below;
Cove Orthopaedic Clinic – Mount Elizabeth Orchard: Orthopaedic Surgeon
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-13 Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
+65 9631 7637
