Common Problems that Require Orthopedic Services

Orthopedic services cover countless physiological, muscular and skeletal ailments. Statistics show that in seven Americans, one has an orthopedic impairment. Additionally, more than 7 million Americans are hospitalized due to orthopedic conditions each year. This goes to show the important role this field plays in medicine.

What is Orthopedics? It's the medical care that is given to the musculoskeletal system. This system comprises of the joints, nerves, bones, tendons, ligaments and muscles - all that enables the body to move. Here are buy a few of the common conditions that may call for a visit to the nearest orthopedic clinic:

1.      Arthritis

This disease is a common condition that leads to swelling, pain and limited movement among the patients. The areas that are affected include the joints and the connective tissues in the body. There are over 100 different arthritic diseases. It is mostly common among women more than men. Seniors also tend to be the most affected. This is because, osteoarthritis, the most common arthritic condition, is prevalent among the elderly.

Causes of arthritis depend on the type of arthritis. One, osteoarthritis is brought about by the wearing and tearing of one’s joints over a period of time or simply because of misuse/overuse. Two, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and lupus are as a result of one’s immune system attacking one’s own tissues. Three, gout is brought about by crystals building up in the joints. Moreover, arthritis can be traced back to genes with some people having a higher risk of contracting arthritis. However, other kinds of arthritis’ sources cannot be traced.

2.       Fractures

Fractures occur when the bone is partially or completely broken. There are two kinds of fractures: open and closed fracture. An open fracture occurs where the broken bone pierces through the skin and is visible or when the bone is exposed by a deep wound through the skin.

A closed fracture occurs where the skin is intact in spite of a broken bone.

3.      Knee problems

The knee is one of the most vulnerable joints as it withstands a lot of stress from daily activities such as kneeling and lifting, and is in constant use. Knee problems are mostly caused by the aging process and the wear and stress that is on the knee joint. Some common keen problems include strained or sprained knee ligaments, arthritis, torn cartilage and tendonitis. 

4.      Low back pain

This pain varies in individuals with some experiencing mild, annoying pain while to others, persistent, disabling pain in their lower back. This pain may cause problems when moving and even limit normal functioning. Some of the common causes of this include injuries, overuse or improper use such as lifting heavy things, infections, strain and sprain, obesity and joint problems.

There are plenty more ailments to cause one to visit an orthopedic clinic. One should seek orthopedic services so as to help resolve such an injury and prevent it from becoming more severe.

Live Life to its Fullest

Dr. Kevin Crawford

4110 22nd Place Lubbock, TX 79410

(806) 792-4329

Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service only, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.