Orthopedic conditions affect millions of people worldwide, impacting their mobility, comfort, and quality of life. These conditions involve the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons. At MD West One in Omaha, NE, Dr. Michael A. Del Core and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthopedic issues, ensuring that patients can regain function and live active, pain-free lives.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common orthopedic conditions, their causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common orthopedic conditions, especially among older adults. It is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones can rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion.
- Causes: Aging, joint injury, repetitive stress on a joint, and genetics can all contribute to osteoarthritis.
- Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, and the feeling of bone grating on bone during joint movement.
- Treatment: Treatments range from conservative methods like physical therapy, medications, and corticosteroid injections to more invasive options like joint replacement surgery. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can also help manage symptoms.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and, over time, joint deformity. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.
- Causes: While the exact cause is unknown, genetics, environmental factors, and hormonal changes may contribute to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, stiffness (particularly in the morning), and fatigue are common symptoms. As the disease progresses, joint deformities may develop.
- Treatment: Rheumatoid arthritis treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic therapies that target the immune system. Physical therapy and regular monitoring are also crucial for managing this condition.
3. Tendonitis
Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick cord that attaches muscles to bones. It commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels, often causing significant discomfort and limiting mobility.
- Causes: Tendonitis is usually caused by repetitive motion or overuse, making it common in athletes or people with physically demanding jobs. Age-related changes in tendons can also contribute.
- Symptoms: Pain at the site of the tendon and surrounding area, tenderness, and limited range of motion are common indicators.
- Treatment: Rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications are typically prescribed. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. Strengthening exercises and proper ergonomics can prevent future episodes.
4. Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints become inflamed. This condition is most commonly seen in the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.
- Causes: Bursitis is often caused by repetitive motion or sustained pressure on a joint, such as kneeling for extended periods or lifting overhead. It can also develop as a result of injury or infection.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and stiffness are typical, especially during movement or when pressure is applied to the affected area.
- Treatment: The primary treatment for bursitis includes rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. In persistent cases, draining the bursa or surgery may be required.
5. Fractures
Fractures, or broken bones, are among the most common orthopedic injuries. They can result from trauma, accidents, or overuse and can affect any bone in the body. Some fractures are minor and can heal with minimal intervention, while others are more severe and may require surgery to realign the bones.
- Causes: Falls, car accidents, sports injuries, and conditions like osteoporosis, which weakens bones, are common causes of fractures.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to move the affected limb or bear weight on it are typical symptoms of a fracture.
- Treatment: Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Minor fractures may only require a cast or splint, while more complicated cases may need surgical intervention to insert metal rods, plates, or screws to stabilize the bone.
6. Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling a wide range of motion. Rotator cuff injuries are common, particularly in athletes who frequently use their shoulders, such as baseball players or swimmers, as well as in older adults due to age-related wear and tear.
- Causes: Overuse, repetitive movements, or direct trauma can cause tears or inflammation in the rotator cuff tendons.
- Symptoms: Shoulder pain, weakness, and difficulty performing activities that require lifting or rotating the arm are common symptoms.
- Treatment: Conservative treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest are often effective. However, in severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair torn tendons.
7. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This condition is common in individuals who perform repetitive wrist motions, such as typing or assembly line work.
- Causes: Repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, and conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the hand and wrist are common symptoms, particularly during activities that involve gripping or flexing the wrist.
- Treatment: Splinting, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications are often recommended for mild cases. Severe cases may require surgery to release the pressure on the median nerve.
Preventing Orthopedic Injuries and Conditions
Prevention plays a key role in maintaining musculoskeletal health and avoiding many common orthopedic conditions. Taking proactive steps can reduce the risk of injury and promote long-term wellness.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and supports joint health. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking are excellent for overall fitness.
- Practice Proper Ergonomics: Whether at work or during exercise, using proper posture and techniques can reduce strain on muscles and joints, preventing overuse injuries like tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Carrying excess weight puts additional pressure on joints, especially in the knees and hips, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis and other joint conditions.
- Listen to Your Body: If you experience pain or discomfort during an activity, it’s important to rest and allow your body to recover. Pushing through pain can lead to more serious injuries.
Looking Forward: Managing Orthopedic Conditions for a Healthier Future
Living with an orthopedic condition doesn’t have to mean a diminished quality of life. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies, most people can manage or even recover from orthopedic issues, regaining their mobility and comfort. At MD West One in Omaha, NE, Dr. Michael A. Del Core and his team offer expert care for a wide range of orthopedic conditions, from arthritis to complex fractures. Whether through conservative treatments or surgical interventions, the goal is always to help patients return to their daily lives with minimal pain and maximum function.
Sources:
- Smith, T. R., & Brown, L. F. (2018). Managing Osteoarthritis: Current Approaches. Journal of Orthopedic Medicine.
- Davis, A. C. (2020). Tendonitis and Its Impact on Mobility. American Journal of Sports Therapy.
- Clark, E. P. (2019). The Role of Physical Therapy in Orthopedic Rehabilitation. Orthopedic Health Review.
