Orthopedic injuries are injuries of muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissues that are caused by an accident or sudden trauma that the body has been subjected to during sports or other physical activities.
Not all orthopedic injuries happen due to sudden trauma or accident; some occur due to overuse or general wear and tear. Orthopedic injuries that lead to pain, loss of mobility, and loss of functionality warrant immediate orthopedic attention.
Let’s talk about 5 common orthopedic injuries, how they are treated, and where you can go for outstanding orthopedic treatment in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Fractures
A fracture or break in the bone is a common orthopedic injury that happens when there is too much stress on your bone. Fractures occur when you carry something heavy, fall suddenly, or work out without knowing your limits. Certain conditions, such as osteoporosis, can also make your bone vulnerable to fractures.
Your orthopedist will thoroughly evaluate your fracture and suggest treatment according to your unique needs.
A minor break in bone can heal on its own with a cast or immobilization, but for a severe fracture, fracture repair surgery might be needed.
Meniscal Tear
Meniscal tear is when a fibrocartilage that acts as a shock absorber between your tibia and femur breaks due to a sudden blow to the knee or degenerative changes that happen over time.
Rest, immobilization, cortisone and platelet-rich plasma injections, and physical therapy are the first treatments for meniscal tears;however, a more serious tear may require surgical repair of a torn meniscus.
Joint Dislocation
In joint dislocation, the bones of joints are partially or completely knocked out of their place, causing pain, temporary deformity, and joint immobilization. Fingers, shoulders, knees, elbows, and hips are common sites of joint dislocation.
The method of treatment of joint dislocation depends on joint location. Initial treatment for joint dislocation includes RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) therapy, medications, physical therapy, repositioning of the joint, and immobilization.
However, surgery is considered more appropriate for joint dislocation where there is damage to nearby blood vessels, nerves, and ligaments.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This orthopedic injury occurs more frequently in people with repetitive movements intheir hands and arms. Carpal tunnel syndrome is when a nerve of the wrist (median nerve) is compressed or squeezed as it travels through the carpal tunnel. Pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist are common symptoms of this syndrome.
To treat carpal tunnel syndrome, your orthopedic doctor may advise wearing a wrist splint, taking medication for pain relief, cutting down on things that can worsen the syndrome, and doing exercises.
Surgery to release the nerve (also known as carpal tunnel release) is recommended only when initial treatments fail to provide relief.
Plantar Fasciitis
This ligament inflammation runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Overuse or overstretching of the ligament (plantar fascia) can lead to plantar fasciitis.
Rest, icing, bracing, medications, physical therapy, and steroidal or PRP shots are often the first approaches to treating damaged ligaments. Surgery such as plantar fascia release is recommended in some cases of chronic pain and nerve damage.
Orthopedic Doctor in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Orthopedic injuries can come unannounced and can wreak havoc in your life. So, if you’ve incurred an orthopedic injury, consult Dr. Paul Meli today!
Dr. Meli is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who will thoroughly assess your condition and develop a tailor-made plan to treat your injuries and help you recover faster. Dr. Meli is specialized in shoulder and knee repair and sports medicine.
If you would like to make an appointment with us, contact our staff today at (954) 324-7711 or use our online appointment request form.
