Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Osgood-Schlatter Disease is characterized by inflammation of the tibial tuberosity which is the area just below the knee, where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone (tibia).  The condition is characterized by a painful lump just below the kneecap. It is generally seen in young adolescents aged 9 to 16 years.

 

Causes

 

Osgood-Schlatter Disease is mainly caused as a result of overuse injuries during sports activities such as running, jumping, volleyball etc. It exerts additional stress over the quadriceps muscles which cause pain, irritation and swelling. The condition occurs during growth spurts of adolescence due to changes in the structure of bone, muscles, tendons etc. Boys are at a higher risk of developing Osgood-Schlatter Disease because they are more involved in sports activities as compared to girls.

 

Symptoms

• Pain in the front and lower part of the knee
• Tight muscles in front or back of the thigh
• Swelling
• Pain increases while running or climbing stairs
• Tenderness

Diagnosis

The orthopedic doctor may thoroughly examine the knee and apply pressure to the tibial tubercle to assess pain and swelling. He may also ask the patient to kneel, walk or jump to check for symptoms. Certain imaging tests such as an X-ray may also be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.

 

Treatment

 

Non-surgical treatment:

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medicines may be recommended by the doctor to provide relief from pain and inflammation.
• Rest: The orthopedic doctor may suggest the patient to take proper rest. Vigorous activities such as running, jumping should also be halted to avoid straining the joint.
• Ice: Applying ice packs at frequent intervals can be beneficial to ease pain and compress swelling.
• Physical therapy: Performing certain exercises, as suggested by the physical therapist, can help to speed up recovery.
• Brace: Wearing a cast or brace can help to provide support to the affected knee.

In severe cases, when non-surgical treatment does not provide relief, surgery may be required to remove the small part of the bone that gets separated.

 

Prevention

• Children should wear kneepads while playing sports in order to prevent themselves from getting injured.
• Avoiding strenuous activities such as running, jumping , soccer, rugby etc. can also prevent the onset of the condition.

It is advisable to consult an orthopedic doctor for proper treatment.

Tips For Preventing Back Pain In Elderly

The back is a complex structure and a small amount of stress or pressure can cause discomfort and back pain. It can be characterized by stiffness, acute pain in the vertebral column, limited range of motion, low flexibility and inability to stand straight. Back pain is a common problem, which is prone to elder people due to normal wear and tear of the back muscles. It can be caused due to ruptured disc, skeletal irregularities or an injury to the muscles in the back.  

Here are a few tips to prevent back pain in the elderly:

• Exercise: It is suggested to do certain low intensity stretching exercises regularly, in order to support the muscles in the lower back. It can help make the muscles immune to minor injuries by building strength.

• Weight Management: The amount of body weight can put a great impact on the vertebrae and spinal discs with aging. For elderly people, it is suggested to maintain the ideal weight in order to reduce additional pressure from the spine and the back muscles.

• Diet Modification: Consuming a healthy diet with lean proteins, leafy vegetables, whole grains, and high fiber can help in maintaining the proper body weight and also keep the body healthy.

• Posture: It is suggested to concentrate on the posture of the back to prevent back pain. Standing straight, supporting the back while sitting and sleeping on the back or on the side can help in the proper positioning of the back, reducing stress and preventing back pain.

• Proper Lifting: With increasing age the body’s ability to bear sudden jerks decreases. Elderly people are suggested to pay attention while lifting heavy objects. Bending the knees instead of the back can be helpful in lifting objects without stressing the back.

• Stress Reduction: Stress can create tension in the back muscles leading to back pain. Doing activities such as yoga, meditation, exercises etc. can help in reducing stress and preventing back pain in elderly people.

• Avoid Falls: Preventing falls and slips is essential in avoiding back pain. The elderly should walk slowly, use handrails when available and wear comfortable supportive shoes.

These were some tips, which can help in preventing back pain in elderly people. However, if suffering from back pain one must visit an orthopedic doctor for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Orthopedic Treatment For Knee Fracture

Knee is a complex and largest joint of the human body. It joins the thigh with the leg and plays an important part in movement of the body. A knee fracture is caused when any of the bones in the joint crack or break due to the application of severe force or an injury. Fractures in the knee are common among children and people who regularly take part in sports activities or have low bone strength.

Causes

• Intense injuries
• Accident
• Repetitive activities
• Arthritis
• Dislocation
• Severe fall

Symptoms

• Severe pain
• Swelling around the joint
• Cracking or popping sound
• Deformity
• Inability to move the joint
• Pale and cold foot
• Numbness around the foot and the joint
• Inability to put weight on the joint

Diagnosis

The orthopedic doctor may diagnose a knee fracture with the help of physical examination. He may ask the patient to move the leg in a particular manner and examine the extent of swelling as well as deformity. The orthopedic surgeon may ask questions about the medical history and the nature of injury that lead to the fracture. He may prescribe certain imaging tests like X-ray, CT- scans, MRI etc. to closely view the damage caused to the bone. The orthopedic doctor devises a treatment plan after determining the extent of the condition.

Treatment

• Immobilization: The orthopedic doctor may suggest limiting the movement of the affected joint. This will assist in healing and prevent the joint from bearing any weight.

• Brace: He may ask the patient to wear braces or a cast in order to hold the broken bone in place and allow it to heal.

• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed to reduce the swelling in the affected area. They can help in minimizing pain and numbness caused due to the injury.

• R.I.C.E.: The patient may be asked to follow the R.I.C.E. treatment procedure i.e. rest, ice, compression and elevation to minimize pain and swelling.

• Physical Therapy: Certain strengthening and stretching exercises can help to restore movement in the affected knee.

• Surgery: In severe cases, when non-surgical methods do not offer relief, the doctor may suggest a surgical procedure in order to join the bone. Surgery is followed by post-surgical care and rehabilitation during which the doctor’s instructions must be followed.

A knee fracture may take 6 to 8 weeks to heal and regain complete mobility of the joint. In case of a knee fracture you must consult an orthopedic surgeon for immediate and proper medical attention.

Orthopedic Treatment For Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder, also called Adhesive Capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness, pain and restriction in movement of the shoulder. The connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the shoulder capsule, becomes stiff and inflamed causing discomfort and pain. The condition most commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is seen more in women.

Causes

• Limited movement after a surgery or fracture
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism
• Parkinson's disease
• Cardiac disease
• Diabetes

Symptoms

The symptoms of Frozen Shoulder can be divided in three progressive phases:

• Freezing Phase: This phase begins with stiffness of the shoulder, which is marked by intermittent pain in the shoulder region. It may last for about three to eight months with mild stiffness.

• Frozen Phase: This is also known as ‘adhesive phase’ and lasts about four to twelve months. It is characterized by increased stiffness, pain in muscles and lack of arm movement.

• Thawing Phase: The thawing or ‘recovery phase’ of Frozen Shoulder lasts for about twelve to 42 months. There is stiffness and pain in the shoulder, which is less severe and improves with time.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose the condition, the orthopedic doctor may perform a physical test to check the range of motion of the patient’s arm. The doctor can ask details about the patient’s medical history and look for inflammation or bruising around the shoulder area. The doctor may also recommend certain imaging tests like X-ray and MRI to determine the extent and cause of the condition.

Treatment

Depending upon the severity of the condition, the orthopedic surgeon may suggest the following treatment options:

• Medication: The orthopedic doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint.

• Physical Therapy: The patient may be recommended to visit a physical therapist to improve flexibility and movement of the shoulder. 

• Surgery: In case non-surgical treatment doesn’t offer the desired results the orthopedic surgeon can recommend surgery. During the procedure the scarred tissue is surgically removed to provide full range of motion to the shoulder joint. The doctor can prescribe physical therapy after the surgery for proper rehabilitation.

If left untreated, Frozen Shoulder can worsen with time and cause severe pain. Thus, as soon as the symptoms appear it is advised that one must consult an orthopedic doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The focus of the treatment is to restore motion and offer relief from pain.

Orthopedic Treatment For Anterior Compartment Syndrome

Anterior Compartment Syndrome occurs as a result of increased pressure in a closed anatomical space in the body. It can affect your forearm, hand, hips, leg, foot, abdomen or the upper arm; however, it usually is known to occur in parts below the knee. There are mainly two types of Anterior Compartment Syndrome namely Acute Anterior Compartment Syndrome, which occurs as a result of leg injury and Chronic Exertional Anterior Compartment Syndrome, which is caused due to excess exercise.

Causes

• Injury in the leg, particularly crash injuries
• Injury that breaks a bone in your leg
• Increased pressure on legs
• Over exercise or excess walking/running
• Trauma
• Burns
• Infection
• Limb compression
• Fracture in the lower leg
• Blood clot in the leg
• Tight bandaging

Symptoms

• Difficulty while running and exercising.
• The pain disappears when you are taking rest and reappears when you resume exercising or running.
• Pain in your leg that worsens with time.
• Severe pain and inability in moving your leg and toes
• Swelling and redness on the affected leg
• Pale leg skin
• Numbness
• Tightness and bruising on the affected part of your leg

Treatment

In the event where you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is advised that you immediately see the orthopedic doctor. Anterior Compartment Syndrome demands prompt diagnosis so that treatment can be started immediately. 

Non-Surgical methods:

• Applying ice on the affected area may help to reduce pain, swelling, bruise and numbness in the leg. This will allow you to move your leg and toes a little easier than before.
• If you are suffering from acute Anterior Compartment Syndrome, then your orthopedic doctor may remove any splint or cast that may be confining your leg.
• Exercises can be prescribed by your physical therapist such as gently stretching your leg or altering your footwear in order to accommodate your feet easily inside it.
• Physical therapy is quite effective as it not only alleviates pain but it also helps in a speedy recovery.
• You must take proper rest and avoid excessive running and walking.

Surgical methods:
It is normally treated using non-surgical methods; however, in some cases the orthopedic surgeon may instruct you to undergo surgery. In order to relieve pressure and tension in your leg, your orthopedic doctor may perform surgery on the affected area in the leg that will allow the muscles of the part to swell.

Achilles Tendon Disorders

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body which stretches from the calf muscles to the bones of the heel. It can be easily felt at the back of ankle and above the heel. Besides being the largest tendon, it is prone to injuries which may occur in many forms including inflammation of the tendons and partial or complete rupture, or tear of the tendons. 

The most common disorders related to Achilles Tendons are: 

• Achilles Tendonitis: It is the inflammation of the tendon which usually occurs due to overexertion or overuse of the tendons such as during running, playing, dancing etc. The inflammation is short lived but can progress into deterioration of the tendons if proper treatment is not given on time. 
• Achilles Tendonosis:  It is the degeneration of the tendon and occurs if Achilles tendonitis is not treated properly. In this condition the tendon loses its structure and develops tiny tears which may also lead to rupture of the tendon, in severe cases.

Causes:

Achilles Tendon disorders, also known as “overuse” disorders, are generally caused by a sudden increase of a repetitive activity which puts pressure on the Achilles Tendons. Other causes may include:

• Increase in level of physical activity too quickly 
• Lack of proper stretching before exercise
• Wearing high- heels
• Feet conditions like flat feet
• Improper techniques used for exercise
• Tight muscles or tendons
• Bone Spur

Symptoms:

• Pain near the back of the feet, which is generally severe during morning or after rest
• Pain worsens with activity
• Stiffness and tenderness
• Disorganized tendons
• Tendon thickens

In case of severe pain and inflammation, the patient should seek immediate orthopedic care as the condition may deteriorate and lead to ruptured (torn) tendons.

Treatment: 

The treatment for Achilles Tendon depends upon the severity of the condition which is checked by the orthopedic doctor by performing X-Rays and MRI’s etc. The condition can be treated by both surgical and non-surgical treatments.

Non-surgical treatments:

• Immobilization: This is the first step towards reducing the pain. An orthopedic doctor may suggest the patient to take complete rest and avoid motion as physical activities may worsen the pain.
• Ice Packs: Ice is used to reduce the inflammation over the tendons. Ice compression can be helpful for the patient suffering from acute pain and inflammation. The ice should not be applied directly rather a towel should be used for applying ice to the infected area.
• Anti-Inflammatory medications:  An orthopedic surgeon may also suggest anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the pain and the swelling.
• Exercise: There are certain exercises which help in reducing the stress on the Achilles Tendon.

Surgical Treatment: 

The surgical treatment for the disorder may be considered only if the patient does not show any signs of improvement after the non-surgical treatment. The surgery depends on the amount of damage to the tendons and the location of the tendinitis.

Orthopedic Treatment For Diabetic Foot

Diabetic Foot is the condition where higher levels of glucose or blood sugar damage the nerves and blood vessels of the body. This leads to a decrease in the immunity of the body to fight infection in case of any injury. Most of the effects of diabetes are felt and seen on the foot which can quickly turn into serious illness. In most cases any minor foot injury turns into ulcers and infections, and may even lead to amputation of the feet. Therefore, one should be aware of the causes and symptoms of the condition in order to avoid any serious damage.

Causes

The condition usually develops in a person suffering from Diabetes. The risk factors which increase the chances of developing Diabetic Foot are:

• Poorly Fit Footwear: The most common cause is poorly fit shoes. They can cause red spots, blisters, corns, and calluses in the feet which can turn septic in people suffering from diabetes.
• Nerve Damage: Diabetes patients who have to be on foot for longer period and have poorly controlled diabetes are at a risk of having damage in the nerves. Such nerve damages can reduce the sensation in the feet due to which a person with diabetes may not be able to sense the minor injuries which can turn into infections.
• Other Infections: Infections like Athlete’s foot, Ingrown toenail may also lead to diabetic foot.
• Smoking:  Smoking can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the feet and legs. The damage can hamper the process of healing and can cause major infections. 

Symptoms

• Persistent pain at the site of injury
• Punctures
• Redness around the wound signifies infection
• Inflammation of the feet or legs
• Ulcers and blisters
• A sensation of warmth around the injured area
• Hard and shiny skin on the legs
• Interrupted growth of hairs
• Calluses and corns
• Seepage of pus from the bruise
• Fever
• Spreading of redness from the wound signifies worsened condition

Treatment
In case a diabetic patient suffers from an injury or wound, he must immediately seek the advice of an orthopedic doctor. If the above mentioned symptoms persist, there is an increased risk of the infection of the wound. Treatment for Diabetic Foot may include:

• Antibiotics: An orthopedic physician may prescribe an antibiotic depending on the severity of the condition. He may analyze the blood sugar levels before providing any medication. The patient should make sure to take the prescribed dosage of antibiotics to treat the condition completely.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery might be needed to heal the wound. The procedure may involve combination of treatments to give relief from the pain.

Intense care should be provided to people suffering from Diabetic Foot in order to save them from the extremity of the condition. The condition should not be ignored and the patient must immediately refer to an orthopedic physician in case of an injury.