ORTHOPEDIC

Osteoarthritis: Signs and Symptoms

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that can affect your hip, knee, and hand joints. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that serves as a cushion for your joints can get damaged either due to aging or other causes. When the cartilage is worn, the bones might rub together when you walk, move, or engage the affected joint. You can visit an orthopedic hospital in Navi Mumbai to discuss the best treatment for osteoarthritis.

The condition can affect your mobility severely, as you won’t be able to use your joints as freely as before. Although many home remedies and medications can help manage your pain and discomfort, they can’t reverse the joint damage. For that, you may need knee replacement surgery (depending on how severely it has affected you).

Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

The most common cause of osteoarthritis is aging. As you age, your cartilage wears down, limiting your motion. However, any fall, a direct hit on your joint, an accident or anything that damages your joint can lead to cartilage damage and hence osteoarthritis. Anyone can develop osteoarthritis, but some people are at increased risk. Examples include older people, diabetic patients, and those with autoimmune diseases.

People with osteoarthritis might develop symptoms that tend to worsen gradually. Here are the common signs of the condition.

• Stiff Joints: You might feel stiff joints as soon as you wake up or stay inactive for some time.
• Pain and Tenderness: You will feel pain when walking, moving, or performing any strenuous physical activity. Likewise, putting any pressure near or on the affected joint might hurt.
• Inflexible Joints: Osteoarthritis can result in the loss of mobility eventually. The condition keeps worsening over time until you will lose your full range of motion.
• Popping Sound: You might hear a popping sound when using the affected joint.
• Inflammation: The worn joint can get inflamed and cause swelling.

Also Read: Is Walking Good For Torn Ligaments?

Diagnosis and Treatment

An orthopedic doctor in Navi Mumbai will conduct a physical exam and order a few screening tests, including a CT scan and MRI, to identify the level of damage to your cartilage. They will ask questions like, how long you have been experiencing the symptoms. They might also order blood tests to rule out the possibility of any other issues.

Here are a few treatment options that can make the condition manageable.

• Medication: Over-the-counter painkillers can relieve pain in the joints. It can be taken orally or in the tropical form, through ointment.
• Exercise and Therapies: Mild exercises like swimming and aerobics can help strengthen the muscles around the affected area and reduce joint tenderness and stiffness. Hot and cold therapies can also relieve the pain and discomfort greatly.
• Using Mobility Devices: You’ll be advised to use a cane and other walking aids to take the pressure off your joint and move without pain.

Surgery is usually not required unless the condition has worsened to a point where you can’t move your joint at all. In that case, you need a complete joint replacement surgery.

Which Method Of Hip Replacement Is The Best?

Introduction

Hip replacement surgery is a common orthopedic procedure to relieve pain and improve mobility in individuals with hip joint issues. However, with various methods available, patients often wonder which is the best approach for their specific condition. Here, you can explore different types of hip replacement procedures and their advantages and disadvantages. It will help you understand which hip replacement method is most suitable for you.

Different Types of Hip Replacement Procedures

Hip replacement surgery offers several approaches tailored to the patient’s condition and requirements. The three primary methods are:

1. Total Hip Replacements

Total hip replacements involve replacing the hip joint’s ball and socket with prosthetic components. This procedure is suitable for patients with severe arthritis, joint degeneration, or significant damage to the hip joint.

2. Partial Hip Replacements

Partial hip replacements, also known as hip hemiarthroplasty, involve replacing only the damaged or diseased portion of the hip joint, typically the ball component. This method is often chosen for specific hip fractures or conditions that affect only one part of the hip joint.

3. Revision Hip Replacements

Revision hip replacements are performed when a previous hip replacement has failed or needs to be replaced due to various reasons, such as wear and tear of the prosthetic components or infection.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Method

Each method of hip replacement has its unique advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of Total Hip Replacements

• Effective for severe hip joint damage.
• Provides long-term relief from pain and improved joint function.
• Suitable for various hip conditions, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Also Read: Lifetime Precautions After A Hip Replacement

Disadvantages of Total Hip Replacements

• More extensive surgery with longer recovery time.
• Greater risk of dislocation.

Advantages of Partial Hip Replacements

• Smaller incisions and less bone removal lead to quicker recovery.
• Reduced risk of dislocation.
• Suitable for specific hip fractures or localized joint damage.

Disadvantages of Partial Hip Replacements

• Limited applicability to certain conditions.
• It may require a second surgery if the entire joint deteriorates over time.

Advantages of Revision Hip Replacements

• Corrects issues with previous hip replacements.
• Replaces worn or damaged prosthetic components.
• Restores joint function.

Disadvantages  of Revision Hip Replacements

• It is more complex than primary hip replacements.
• Longer recovery and rehabilitation.

Which Method of Hip Replacement is the Best?

The choice of the best method of hip replacement depends on individual factors, such as the patient’s age, the severity of the hip condition, and the surgeon’s assessment. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as what works for one patient may not be suitable for another. The decision should be made in consultation with an experienced hip replacement surgeon, such as a Hip Replacement Surgeon in Navi Mumbai at Mangal Prabhu Hospital. A skilled surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation, consider the patient’s needs, and recommend the most appropriate treatment method.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no definitive answer to which hip replacement method is the best, as it varies from patient to patient. The choice depends on individual circumstances and the expertise of the surgeon. What is essential is that patients seek expert care from facilities like Mangal Prabhu Hospital, which specializes in Hip Replacement Surgery in Navi Mumbai. With the guidance of experienced professionals, patients can receive the most suitable hip replacement procedure to improve their overall quality of life.

Is Walking Good For Torn Ligaments?

Torn ligaments can be a painful and debilitating injury, often raising questions about appropriate activities during the healing process. This article will explore the nature of torn ligaments, their symptoms, diagnosis, and whether walking is a suitable exercise during recovery. Here, you can also learn about the Mangal Prabhu Hospital. It is a trusted healthcare facility with an experienced Knee Replacement Surgeon in Navi Mumbai.

What are Torn Ligaments?

Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands of tissue that connect bones. They also provide stability to joints. When subjected to excessive force or trauma, these ligaments can tear. Hence, it results in a condition known as a torn ligament. This injury most commonly occurs in joints like the knees and ankles.

What are the Symptoms of Torn Ligaments?

Torn ligaments typically present with a set of distinct symptoms, including:

• Pain and Tenderness
• Swelling and Bruising
• Limited Range of Motion
• Joint Instability
• Popping or Snapping Sensation

How to Diagnose Torn Ligaments?

Accurate diagnosis of torn ligaments is crucial for determining the appropriate course of treatment. A healthcare professional will typically use a combination of methods, including:

i) Physical Examination:

The healthcare provider will examine the injured area, looking for signs of swelling, tenderness, and joint stability.

ii) Imaging Tests:

X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to assess the extent of the ligament injury and rule out any accompanying bone damage.

iii) Medical History:

A detailed discussion of the injury, including how it occurred and the progression of symptoms, is essential for diagnosis.

Also Read: Is Orthopedic Surgery Worth It?

Is Walking Good For Torn Ligaments?

Walking can be a beneficial activity during the recovery from torn ligaments. But you should approach it with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In many cases, initial treatment may involve rest and immobilization. However, controlled and gentle walking exercises may be introduced as part of a rehabilitation program as healing progresses.

Walking can help maintain joint mobility, prevent muscle atrophy, and improve blood circulation, all supporting healing. Following a structured rehabilitation program prescribed by a medical professional is crucial. Attempting to resume normal walking too soon or overexerting oneself can delay healing or lead to further injury.

Other Exercises That Can Help Reduce Pain and Heal Torn Ligaments

In addition to walking, various exercises can aid in reducing pain and promoting the healing of torn ligaments. These exercises may include:

• Range of Motion Exercises.
• Strengthening Exercises.
• Balance and Stability Exercises.
• Low-impact activities such as swimming or stationary cycling can improve cardiovascular fitness without placing excessive stress on the injured ligament.

Conclusion

Walking can be beneficial during the recovery from torn ligaments, provided it is done cautiously and under professional guidance. Initial treatment often involves rest, but a structured rehabilitation program may incorporate walking and other exercises as healing progresses.

If you have suffered a ligament injury or require expert guidance on your recovery, consult knee replacement surgeons at Mangal Prabhu Hospital, a leading Knee Replacement Hospital in Navi Mumbai. Remember that patience, adherence to the prescribed treatment plan, and avoiding activities that could hinder healing are key to a successful recovery.

Lifetime Precautions After a Hip Replacement

Generally, seniors undergo hip replacement surgery to improve mobility and reduce pain. If you know someone undergoing this surgery, you must ensure they know the lifetime precautions. The Hip Replacement Surgeon in Navi Mumbai educates its patient about lifetime precautions after their procedure. Individuals can ensure a successful and long-lasting outcome by following these precautions and taking care of the new joint. In this blog, you can explore the essential lifetime precautions after a hip replacement.

Understanding the Lifetime of a Hip Implant

Before learning about the lifetime precaution, let’s learn about the lifetime of the hip implant. These implants can vary in material and design. The lifespan of hip implants depends on multiple factors, such as their type and the individual’s lifestyle. On average, most hip replacements continue to function well even after ten years, and many can last a lifetime. You must consult with the surgeon from Orthopedic Hospital in Navi Mumbai about the specific characteristics of the implant and its expected longevity to ensure appropriate care.

Precautions to follow after Hip Replacement Surgery

People with hip replacement surgery should follow these precautions from Mangal Prabhu Hospital, including:

1. Crossing Legs and Twisting Movements

Avoid crossing legs and twisting movements, including pivoting on one leg and walking pigeon-toed, should be avoided to minimize the risk of dislocation. Side sleepers may find sleeping with a pillow between their legs beneficial to maintain proper alignment. It’s important to be mindful of these movements and make conscious efforts to protect the hip joint.

2. Bending Too Far

Excessive hip flexion can lead to dislocation, so seniors should avoid bending the hip joint beyond 90 degrees. Activities like putting on socks or shoes should be done with caution. Choosing appropriate seating, like chairs with the thighs parallel to the floor, helps maintain the correct angle. Tall individuals may need elevated cushions for chairs or toilet seats to prevent over-bending.

Also Read: How To Sleep After ACL Surgery?

3. Repetitive, High-Impact Activities

While exercise is essential for maintaining muscle tone and balance, certain activities can strain the hip implant excessively. Repetitive motions and high-impact exercises like running and jumping should be avoided. Instead, low-impact exercises such as swimming, yoga, and stationary biking are recommended to restore range of motion without risking damage to the implant.

4. Air Travel Considerations

If the hip implant contains metal, it may set off metal detectors at airport security checkpoints. Informing the TSA agent about the presence of a metal hip implant is advisable. Full-body scanners are usually more effective at detecting internal metal. Still, even if the alarm sounds, it’s typically resolved with a physical pat-down or electromagnetic wand screening to ensure safety.

Conclusion

By following the lifetime precautions after a hip replacement, individuals can maintain the integrity of their new joint and enjoy a fulfilling life. Seniors should prioritize low-impact exercises and be aware of air travel considerations. Elderly people also avoid excessive bending and twisting. It will contribute to the long-term success of hip replacement surgery. Consult healthcare professionals at Mangal Prabhu Hospital for personalized advice throughout the journey. They will help you manage your pain and prevent complications.

How to Sleep After ACL Surgery?

Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL surgery removes the torn ligament from your knee and replaces it with an artificial one to restore your knee function. The ligament could be either removed fully or preserved, depending on the severity of the injury. Your orthopedic surgeon in Navi Mumbai will brief you on the postoperative recovery.

Although the surgery doesn’t usually take more than 2 hours, patients might experience discomfort for a few days following the operation. The biggest question is how do you sleep during the recovery phase? Which posture is the best? Let’s find out.

Use Compression Stockings to Prevent Blood Clots

You need to wear compression stockings for 2-3 weeks post your ACL reconstruction surgery in Navi Mumbai. It helps prevent blood clot formation on the treated site and reduces pain and inflammation. It also helps you sleep comfortably.

You may have to continue the use of compression stockings at least until the sutures have not been removed and healed. Keep your affected area covered in this wrap every day and for 24 hours. You can remove it when taking a shower or changing the wrap.

Use Ice to Reduce Swelling

Post-surgical pain is common. While the doctor might give you over-the-counter medication to relieve the pain, you can try some home remedies too. Ice massage, for example, is a highly effective method to reduce swelling. Massage the injured site with ice packs twice a day—in the morning and before going to bed. This will reduce the pain, helping you fall asleep faster.

Also Read: Is Orthopedic Surgery Worth It?

Choose the Right Sleeping Position

After the surgery, you should sleep on your back with your treated leg raised slightly upward above your heart. Remember, finding the right sleeping position after ACL surgery is extremely important. A position that applies too much pressure on your affected leg will not only cause discomfort but can slow your healing.

Patients healing from ACL surgery should sleep in a supine position, i.e. on their back instead of the stomach or side. Put a soft pillow beneath your leg to elevate it comfortably. This will alleviate pain, improve blood circulation, and reduce muscle tension.

Clean Your Bandage Regularly

Infection after the operation can be avoided by cleaning your bandage frequently and keeping it dry at all times. Note that wet stockings will serve as the breeding ground for germs, leading to infection on the wounded site. Besides that, it creates moisture on the leg, which can slow down your healing. A good hygienic practice for patients undergoing ACL surgery would be to remove the bandage before going to sleep, apply ointment, and wrap a new bandage.

Take OTC for Pain Management

Pain makes it difficult to fall and stay asleep after the ACL surgery. You can take over-the-counter medication to reduce pain and swelling. The anti-inflammatory medication will relieve the pain and help you have a good night’s sleep.

However, prescription medication can have side effects and might lead to addiction if taken in inappropriate dosage. It’s advisable to discuss your condition and sleep issues with the doctor to find the best solutions.

Is Orthopedic Surgery Worth it?

What Is Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedic is the area of medicine that focuses on the evaluation, treatment, and preventive measures of issues and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that provide support, stability, and movement to the body. Orthopedic conditions can vary from minor injuries, such as sprains and strains, to more severe conditions, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and degenerative disc disease.

Types of Orthopedic Treatment:

Orthopedic experts, commonly known as orthopedic surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions. They are trained to administer a variety of techniques to treat orthopedic conditions, including non-surgical and surgical approaches. Non-surgical treatments include physical therapy, medications, and orthotic tools, such as braces or casts, that help support and immobilize affected areas in the body. The surgical treatments include procedures such as joint replacement, spinal fusion, and arthroscopic surgery.

According to an Orthopedic Hospital in Navi Mumbai, these procedures are typically used for more severe conditions that do not respond effectively to non-surgical methods. Let us understand if this type of surgery is necessary and if it is worth it.

The decision of whether or not orthopedic surgery is worth it depends on various factors such as the specific condition that is being treated, the severity level of the condition, the patient’s overall health condition and lifestyle, and the potential risks and benefits of the surgery.

Advantages of Orthopedic Surgery:

In many cases, an orthopedic surgery can be highly effective in relieving pain, improving mobility, and restoring function to the affected area. As per an example given by one of the best Orthopedic Surgeon in Navi Mumbai, joint replacement surgery, such as a knee or hip replacement, can be life-changing for people with serious arthritis or joint damage, allowing them to regain mobility and live a higher quality of life.

Risks & Benefits of Orthopedic Surgery:

However, like any surgery, there are risk factors associated with orthopedic surgery, including infection, bleeding, and anesthesia complications. In addition, recovery from orthopedic surgery can be a lengthy process and can require a significant commitment to physical therapy and rehabilitation.

It’s important for patients to weigh the potential risks and benefits of orthopedic surgery and to have realistic expectations about the result of the surgery. People should first gain full understanding and knowledge from their orthopedic surgeon about the procedure, potential risks, and the recovery process.

Conclusion:

In many cases, non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle alterations can be impactful in managing orthopedic conditions and improving symptoms and surgery may not be required. But, the decision of whether or not orthopedic surgery is worth it is highly dependable on the individual’s condition and such a decision should be made in consultation with a qualified orthopedic surgeon.

Common Joints & Muscle Injuries

Your joints, muscles, and bones regulate your movements. When they are stretched beyond their capacity, they might get inflamed and injured, making normal movements painful. Any kind of injury to your musculoskeletal system can affect your range of motion and cause extreme discomfort when left unaddressed. 

In addition to sports injuries and road accidents, your muscles and joints can get inflamed for several reasons. It can be due to aging, arthritis, or obesity, which puts excess pressure on your joints. Whatever the cause is, you should see an orthopedic doctor in Navi Mumbai immediately to get your issue diagnosed and treated. In the meantime, let’s take a look at some common types of musculoskeletal injuries.

Joint and Muscle Injuries

Joint injuries can occur in your knees, elbows, ankles, and shoulders. Depending on the severity of the injury, the condition might limit your movements or make you completely immobile. Anything from falling down the stairs to car accidents can lead to joint injuries. The symptoms include redness, swelling, inflammation, weakness, limited range of motion, pain, and stiffness. 

Your muscles weaken as you age. They might also lose strength because of a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, or obesity. Muscle injuries occur when you overstretch or overuse the muscles for a prolonged period. Examples include indulging in tennis, golf, and other exercises that put excess pressure on your tendons and muscles.

• Knee Injury: Your knee takes excess load when you participate in sports or any strenuous physical exercises. Your cartilage can get torn easily, or there can be a fracture from falling or hitting a hard object. Knee injury is painful and might require surgery in some cases.
• Fractures: Fractures can occur on any joint, leading to several weeks of immobilization. Usually, they heal with an over-the-counter prescription, but some fractures might require surgery.
• Muscle Strain: Muscle strain occurs when you have overstretched or overused a muscle. It’s the small, invisible tear in your muscle fibers that may cause excruciating pain. This usually occurs on the shoulders, lower back, and neck. Sometimes, a serious injury to the muscles might tear the blood vessels supplying oxygen and blood to the specific muscles. This requires urgent medical care.
• Dislocated Joints: People participating in certain sports might experience joint dislocation, a medical condition in which the joints move out of their sockets. It’s important to visit an orthopedic hospital in Navi Mumbai immediately to re-align your joints.
• Back Injuries: Poor posture, strenuous physical exercises, or certain sports can hurt your back. The disc injury can be severe and might require several weeks of rest and physical therapy. Surgery is required, depending on the severity of the issue.

These were some common muscle and joint injuries that can develop either immediately from a sudden fall or gradually from muscle overuse. You must consult an orthopedic doctor before trying new exercises or putting any form of strain on your muscles. Gyming, cycling, running, and other physical activities should be performed only after you get approval from a doctor.

How an Orthopedic Specialist Treats Knee Pain?

The knee is made up of the tibia, patella, and femur, and has a supporting system of soft tissues such as cartilage, ligament, and muscle. When the knee joint gets damaged, it can impact function significantly. Without functional knees, you can’t stand, walk, or run.
Throughout your life, you may experience knee pain due to injuries or in your more advanced years, due to a degenerative disease called osteoarthritis. Knee pain can have many causes and a proper diagnosis is a critical step before receiving treatment. Acute knee pain can be addressed with rest and painkillers. Chronic knee pain has to be addressed with other treatments.

While an orthopedic doctor in Navi Mumbai can examine your knee and prescribe medication to ease pain, an orthopedic doctor is a specialist on the musculoskeletal system and can provide options for treating knee pain more effectively.

Treatment: Treatments will vary, depending upon what exactly is causing your knee pain.

Medications: Your orthopedic doctor in Juinagar, Navi Mumbai may prescribe medications to help relieve pain and to treat the conditions causing your knee pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around your knee will make it more stable. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy or different types of strengthening exercises based on the specific condition that is causing your pain.

Injections:
In some cases, your doctor may suggest injecting medications or other substances directly into your joint. Examples include:

• Corticosteroids. Injections of a corticosteroid drug into your knee joint may help reduce the symptoms of an arthritis flare and provide pain relief that may last a few months. These injections aren’t effective in all cases.

Surgery:

If you have an injury that may require surgery, it’s usually not necessary to have the operation immediately. Before making a decision, consider the pros and cons of both nonsurgical rehabilitation and surgical reconstruction in relation to what’s most important to you. If you choose to have surgery, your options may include:

• Arthroscopic surgery : Depending on your injury, your doctor may be able to examine and repair your joint damage using a fiber-optic camera and long, narrow tools inserted through just a few small incisions around your knee. Arthroscopy may be used to remove loose bodies from your knee joint, remove or repair damaged cartilage (especially if it is causing your knee to lock), and reconstruct torn ligaments.
• Total knee replacement: In this procedure, your surgeon cuts away damaged bone and cartilage from your thighbone, shinbone and kneecap, and replaces it with an artificial joint made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics and polymers.

If you are having symptoms in your knee, we encourage you to contact our office to make an appointment at our orthopaedic hospital in Navi Mumbai i.e. Mangal Prabhu Hospital, Navi Mumbai.

IS WEIGHT BEARING EXERCISES GOOD FOR YOUR AGING BONES?

Weight-bearing describes any activity you do on your feet that works your bones and muscles against gravity. When your feet and legs carry your body weight, more stress is placed on your bones, making your bones work harder. Weight-bearing exercise after young adulthood can help prevent further bone loss and strengthen bone. As you age the muscular and nervous system change and reduce the ability of your body to activate your muscles. But with the help of some physical activity and exercise this process an be slowed down considerably with orthopedic doctor in Navi Mumbai tips and suggested exercise.

These exercises include:

• Brisk walking
• Hiking
• Jogging
• Dancing
• Tennis
• Badminton
• Hopscotch
• Stair climbing

Higher impact activities such as jogging and jumping rope, provide more bone strengthening benefits. But with aging we lose the energy and strength to do such exercises as there are many changes that take place in our body like once we reach the age of 35, we start losing half a pound of muscle and gaining one ad a half pounds of fat each year. At 40-50, the bone mineral density declines. And as we age towards 70 our strength reduces by 20 to 40 percent. With age the musculoskeletal system (system that includes your bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and connective tissues) also changes. There is a decline in muscle fiber numbers and size and loss of efficiency of the cardiovascular system over time. This is a natural/biological process and we can not stop it from happening. And as we age our daily activities also decrease leading in decline of flexibility and strength. But if we keep ourselves active this process can be slowed down.

Exercises that can be done if you have following medical conditions:

• Osteoarthritis: If you have Osteoarthritis, you can involve yourself in walking, biking, swimming and some stretching exercises.
• Lower Back pain: Walking, biking, swimming and strength training.
• Osteoporosis: Walking, biking, swimming, hiking, dancing, treadmill, and racquet sports such as tennis and badminton.
• Total Joint Replacement: Walking, biking, swimming, and play tennis or golf.

Conclusion:

Weight bearing exercise to improve strength are good for people of all age. It can be hard for seniors to build up their muscle mass, but resistance training will help them do this. And if we keep ourselves active, we can prevent ourselves from many diseases and it gives us more energy and greater self-confidence, enabling us to embrace our later years with gusto and take consultation with orthopedic hospital in Navi Mumbai.