Common orthopedic injuries generally are categorized as the following, sprain/strain, fracture, osteochondral injury, tendonitis, compressive injury, or degenerative joint disease.
Many people experience at least one musculoskeletal injury during their lifetime. These injuries can come from accidents, sports, or simply from the everyday tasks we do. Some types of orthopedic injuries are more common than others.
People often report to orthopedic doctors 10 specific injuries. These include things like ankle sprains, knee injuries, and broken bones.
Anterior Cruciate Tears – The meniscus is a small piece of cartilage that helps the knee move freely. If there is damage to this part of the knee, physical therapy and rest are usually the first treatment, but if there is more serious damage, surgery might be needed to fix it.
People who type, sew, or have repetitive movements of their hands and arms may develop carpal tunnel syndrome. This is a condition in which the median nerve becomes pinched and compressed – creating weakness and numbness in the hand. Treatment may include braces, therapy, and medication.
The shoulder has a wide range of motion and can stretch to allow full movement. Sometimes the rotator cuff can be stretched too far – which can lead to its tearing. Depending on the severity of the tear, it may require surgery and/or physical therapy for proper healing.
The plantar fascia is a ligament along the bottom of the foot that attaches the toes to the heel. When this ligament is stretched too far or injured, it can cause severe pain and swelling – especially in the heel. Plantar fasciitis requires rest and a decrease in activity to relieve symptoms. Surgery may be required to correct the injury if symptoms don’t subside
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can be torn from a quick change in direction in the leg, such as a turn or twist. Treatment usually includes rest and physical therapy, with reparative surgery only if necessary.
The tennis elbow is an overuse injury in the tendons of the elbow. It can happen to painters, plumbers, carpenters, and hairdressers. Rest is typically the best method in treating this injury.
A sprain is a ligament injury that results from the tearing of one or more of the tendon fibers connecting two adjacent bones. The RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) is helpful in healing this type of injury; however, sprains that are severe can require additional medical treatment.
A stress fracture is a crack in a bone that occurs as the result of too much stress, wear, or tear. If you have significant pain associated with the fracture, see a doctor for an evaluation to determine if anything can be done to speed up the healing process.
Contact injuries in sports, such as shoulder dislocation, are typically more severe than car accidents. They also require professional help to fix the shoulder, which increases the chance of it happening again.
The wrist contains many small bones that can easily break from impact. A cast and immobilization will fix the issue; surgery may be required in severe cases.
Are you suffering from an orthopedic injury? This is usually when an injury to your bones which makes you immobilized, prevent regular movements for which you might be unable to work to earn an income. If you suffer from such pain and discomfort or mainly unable to move about, consider contacting Americana Injury Clinic.
(713) 480-6254