Orthopedics

Orthopaedics is a branch of medical science that deals with the diseases and injury of the musculoskeletal system of the body. The musculoskeletal system is a complex system present in the body that includes bones, ligaments, joints, muscles, tendons and nerves, and allows the various kinds of movements done by the body. There was a time when Orthopaedists were solely devoted to providing care to children suffering from limb and spine deformities, but now they cater to the needs of everyone.

Now, there are specialised orthopaedists that provide special care to athletes and sportspersons.

Diagnosis

The first thing that an orthopaedic surgeon will do before performing a physical examination is to ask about the history of illness or injury. They will then move forward to diagnostic studies, such as x-rays and blood tests. After the diagnosis and informing the patient about the problem, they will come up with a treatment plan to help them live an active and functional life. The treatment can either be nonsurgical or surgical.

Surgical treatment:

There are several types of surgeries that an orthopaedic surgeon can perform. Some of the common procedures include:

• Arthroscopy: This procedure uses special cameras and equipment to visualise, detect and treat conditions inside a joint.
• Joint replacement: Joint replacement can be a partial, total or revision surgical treatment. In this surgery, an arthritic or damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint called a prosthesis.
• Osteotomy: Cutting and repositioning the bone to correct bone deformity
• Fracture Treatment: This method involves using metal plates, pins or screws to hold the broken pieces of bone in a proper position. Surgical and Ninsurgical Treatment (with plaster cast) both.
• Spine Surgeries