Precision in Motion: Exploring the World of Orthopedic Surgery in Singapore Orthopedic doctors are the specialists that stand at the for...
Precision in Motion: Exploring the World of Orthopedic Surgery in Singapore
Orthopedic
doctors are the specialists that stand at the forefront of musculoskeletal
care, meticulously sculpting solutions for bone, joint, and muscle ailments.
Like craftsmen of the human frame, they use advanced techniques – from
intricate joint replacements to delicate spine surgeries – to restore function
and alleviate pain. Given the crucial role of the musculoskeletal system in
overall health and mobility, seeing an orthopaedic
doctor in Orchard is vital for managing various conditions and
injuries. This article explores the responsibilities of an orthopaedic surgeon,
the branches of orthopaedics, types of orthopaedic procedures, and when to see
an orthopaedic surgeon.
Orthopaedic
doctors possess specialized knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat a wide
range of musculoskeletal conditions. These include fractures, joint disorders,
sports injuries, congenital deformities, and degenerative diseases like
arthritis. Their expertise ensures that patients receive accurate diagnoses and
effective treatments tailored to their specific needs.
The primary aim
of an orthopaedic doctor is to restore and improve mobility and function,
allowing patients to lead active and healthy lives. Whether through surgical
interventions, physical therapy, or other treatments, orthopaedists work to
alleviate pain, correct deformities, and enhance overall musculoskeletal
health.
On another note,
early intervention by an orthopaedic doctor can prevent the progression of
musculoskeletal conditions and reduce the risk of long-term complications. For
example, timely treatment of a joint injury can prevent chronic pain and
arthritis. They also develop personalized treatment plans based on each
patient's condition, lifestyle, and goals. These plans may include a
combination of medical treatments, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications,
and surgical interventions, ensuring comprehensive care and optimal outcomes.
Orthopaedic
doctors often collaborate with other healthcare providers, including primary
care physicians, rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management
specialists, to provide comprehensive care. This multidisciplinary approach
ensures that patients receive the best possible treatment for their specific
needs.
Branches of orthopedics
Orthopedics is
a diverse field with several subspecialties, each focusing on specific areas of
musculoskeletal health. Some of the main branches of orthopaedics include:
● Sports medicine: Sports medicine specialists focus on diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries and conditions. They work with athletes of all levels to manage injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, and ligament tears. Sports medicine doctors also provide guidance on injury prevention, performance enhancement, and rehabilitation.
● Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Orthopedic
surgeons specializing in joint replacement perform procedures to replace
damaged joints with artificial implants. This is commonly done for knees, hips,
and shoulders affected by arthritis, trauma, or degenerative conditions. Joint
replacement aims to relieve pain and restore function.
● Spine surgery: Spine surgeons diagnose and treat
conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis,
scoliosis, and degenerative disc disease. They perform procedures ranging from
minimally invasive surgeries to complex spinal reconstructions to alleviate
pain and improve spinal stability.
● Pediatric orthopaedics: Pediatric orthopaedists
specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions in children
and adolescents. These conditions may include congenital deformities,
growth-related issues, and pediatric fractures.
● Hand and upper extremity surgery: Hand and upper
extremity surgeons focus on conditions affecting the hands, wrists, elbows, and
shoulders. They treat issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon injuries, fractures, and
arthritis.
●
Trauma and
fracture care: Trauma surgeons specialize in the treatment of acute
musculoskeletal injuries resulting from accidents, falls, and other traumatic
events. They manage fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries,
providing both surgical and non-surgical care to promote healing and prevent
complications.
Types of orthopedic procedures
Orthopedic
doctors perform a variety of procedures to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal
conditions. These procedures range from non-invasive treatments to complex
surgeries.
Non-invasive
procedures
Physical therapy
involves exercises and techniques designed to improve strength, flexibility,
and range of motion. Orthopaedic doctors may refer patients to physical
therapists who provide personalized rehabilitation programs to address specific
conditions such as joint pain, muscle weakness, and post-surgical recovery.
Orthopaedic
doctors may also prescribe medications to manage pain, inflammation, and other
symptoms associated with musculoskeletal conditions. Common medications include
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and pain
relievers.
Minimally
invasive procedures
Arthroscopy is a
minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves inserting a small camera
(arthroscope) into a joint to visualize and treat conditions such as torn
ligaments, cartilage damage, and joint inflammation. This is commonly performed
on the knee, shoulder, and hip joints.
Orthopaedic
doctors may administer injections to alleviate pain and inflammation in joints
and soft tissues. Common injections include corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid,
and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). These injections are used to treat conditions
such as arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis.
Surgical
procedures
Joint
replacement surgery involves removing damaged joint surfaces and replacing them
with artificial implants, with the aim to relieve pain and restore function.
This procedure is commonly performed on the knees, hips, and shoulders to treat
severe arthritis and joint degeneration.
Fracture repair
surgery involves realigning and stabilizing broken bones using metal plates,
screws, rods, or pins. The goal of the procedure is to ensure proper healing
and restore the bone's strength and function. Fracture repair is commonly
performed for complex or displaced fractures.
Spinal fusion
surgery involves joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and
alleviate pain caused by conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal
stenosis, and scoliosis. The procedure uses bone grafts or implants to promote
fusion and provide long-term stability.
Tendon and
ligament repair surgery involves reconstructing or repairing damaged tendons
and ligaments to restore stability and function. Common procedures include
rotator cuff repair, ACL reconstruction, and Achilles tendon repair.
When is the best time to see an orthopedic surgeon?
You should see
an orthopedic surgeon if you experience one or more symptoms below:
●
Persistent
pain and discomfort
If there is
persistent pain and discomfort in your joints, muscles, or bones that does not
improve with rest and conservative treatments, it may be time to see an
orthopaedic surgeon.
●
Limited
mobility and function
If you have
difficulty performing daily activities due to limited mobility and function, an
orthopaedic surgeon can help identify the underlying cause and develop a
treatment plan to restore your mobility and quality of life.
●
Acute
injuries
Acute injuries,
such as fractures, dislocations, ligament tears, and tendon injuries, require
prompt evaluation and treatment by an orthopaedic surgeon.
●
Chronic
conditions
Chronic
conditions, such as arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and osteoporosis, may
require ongoing management by an orthopaedic surgeon. Regular check-ups and
treatments can help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall
musculoskeletal health.
●
Failed
conservative treatments
If conservative
treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and injections, have not
provided relief, it may be time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon. Surgical
intervention may be necessary to address the underlying issue and achieve
lasting relief.
Artisan Sports & Orthopedic Clinic
290 Orchard Road
Paragon Medical Centre #07-12
Singapore 238859
Phone (65) 8909 8877
