Orthopaedics

Department of Orthopaedics

What is Orthopaedics?

Orthopaedics is the medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This complex system includes the body's bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. An orthopaedic surgeon is a physician trained to manage a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, from simple fractures and sports injuries to chronic conditions like arthritis. The goal of orthopaedics is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve mobility, allowing patients to return to an active and fulfilling life. The specialty includes both surgical and non-surgical treatments.

Common Conditions Managed

Orthopaedic specialists treat a vast array of conditions affecting people of all ages:

• ✓Fractures and Dislocations: Broken bones and joints that have been displaced from their normal position.
• ✓Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints, with osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) being the most common cause for joint replacement.
• ✓Sports Injuries: Conditions such as ligament tears (e.g., ACL tears in the knee), meniscal tears, and tendonitis.
• ✓Spine Disorders: Including slipped discs, scoliosis, and spinal stenosis.
• ✓Hand and Wrist Problems: Such as carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.
• ✓Foot and Ankle Conditions: Including bunions, plantar fasciitis, and ankle sprains.
• ✓Paediatric Conditions: Such as clubfoot and scoliosis in children.

Diagnostic and Treatment Approaches

Diagnosis in orthopaedics begins with a physical examination to assess movement and strength, followed by imaging studies. X-rays are fundamental for diagnosing fractures, while MRI scans are excellent for visualizing soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. Treatment follows a stepwise approach. Non-surgical options are often tried first, including physiotherapy, medications, and injections. When surgery is required, modern orthopaedics offers many advanced procedures. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive 'keyhole' surgery used to diagnose and treat joint problems. For severe arthritis, joint replacement surgery, such as a total knee replacement or total hip replacement, can provide excellent pain relief and restore function.