How Do You Know if Orthopedic Surgery Is for You?

ByAli Haider

Dec 21, 2023

How Do You Know if Orthopedic Surgery Is for You

Aches and pains in your bones and joints can be common as you age or if you lead an active lifestyle. Consider orthopedic surgery when these pains become persistent and start negatively affecting your daily life.

An orthopedic knee surgeon can offer a valuable solution if you are looking to increase your mobility and alleviate discomfort. Here are some of the signs that may indicate that orthopaedic surgery in Singapore is the right choice for you

Tingling or Numbness

If you experience tingling or numbness in your bones and joints, it can be a symptom of nerve compression or damage. This could be due to various reasons, such as injury, arthritis, or spinal problems.

If this sensation persists after trying non-surgical treatment options, orthopedic surgery may help to alleviate the pressure on the nerves. An orthopedic knee surgeon can diagnose the underlying cause of your tingling or numbness and recommend the appropriate surgical procedure.

Swelling

Swelling can result from various factors such as an injury, infection, or chronic health conditions. It occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the body’s tissues and causes them to swell.

Puffiness or enlargement in a specific body area, such as the hands, feet, or face, may indicate swelling. Localized swelling is confined to a particular body area and is often caused by injury or infection.

Generalized swelling that affects a larger area or multiple areas of the body may require medical attention. It could be a sign of an underlying health condition such as kidney disease, heart failure, or liver problems.

Swelling can also occur due to lifestyle factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, or excessive salt intake. An orthopedic surgeon may be consulted if the swelling is related to an injury or problem with the musculoskeletal system.

Severe Pain

Severe pain is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors. It can range from sharp and sudden to dull and persistent, affecting any body part.

While mild pain is a normal sensation, severe or chronic pain should not be ignored as it may indicate an underlying health issue. Surgery may help determine the cause of the severe pain and provide appropriate treatment.

Sharp right pain may be a sign of a broken bone, while dull pain can be a symptom of arthritis or inflammation. Severe pain may also occur due to nerve damage or injury to soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Torn Ankle Ligaments

Torn ankle ligaments occur when the ligaments in the ankle joint stretch or tear beyond their normal range of motion. This can result from sudden movements, such as stepping off a curb awkwardly or landing on the foot wrong while playing sports. Torn ligaments may also occur gradually over time due to repetitive stress or improper footwear.

Symptoms of a torn ligament include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. In severe cases, the ankle may appear deformed or unstable. Ignoring a torn ankle ligament can lead to chronic pain and instability in the affected joint. Seek professional help from an orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Audible Cracking

Occasional joint pops or cracks might be normal and harmless. Persistent and audible cracking in the joints could indicate an underlying issue.

This can occur for various reasons, such as age, joint injuries, or genetic factors. When joints pop or crack, it is caused by tiny bubbles of gas popping inside the joint. If you experience constant cracking in your joints without any pain or swelling could be a sign of hypermobility syndrome.

Cavitation involves gas bubbles forming in a joint and then collapsing, which results in a popping or cracking sound.

It can also occur when you stretch or move a joint and can also be caused by degenerative changes in the cartilage, resulting in rough surfaces that cause increased friction. A surgeon can offer professional help if the problem persists.

Consult an Expert Orthopedic Knee Surgeon

Orthopedic surgery can help with joint issues such as hypermobility syndrome or osteoarthritis. Some symptoms to look out for include swelling, pain, and numbness in your knees.

If you experience these symptoms, consult an orthopedic knee surgeon for professional help and treatment options. Take the first step towards better joint health by seeking advice from an orthopedic specialist.