Frequently Asked Questions

Orthopaedics is the medical specialty focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. Orthopaedic specialists help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and maintain mobility and overall physical function.

Common orthopaedic injuries include fractures, sprains, strains, tendonitis, bursitis, dislocations, and joint injuries. These injuries can occur due to trauma, overuse, or age-related wear and tear. Early evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist is key to effective treatment and long-term recovery.

You should see an orthopaedic doctor if you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, loss of motion, or a recent injury that limits activity. Warning signs include sudden severe pain, deformity, inability to bear weight, or chronic pain that interferes with daily life.

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Types include osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear), rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune), and psoriatic arthritis. Treatments vary by type and severity and may include medications, physical therapy, injections, lifestyle changes, or surgery. To learn more, visit our page all about arthritis.

Articular cartilage is flexible connective tissue at the ends of bones that cushions joints and allows smooth movement. Damage to this cartilage can lead to pain, swelling, and conditions like osteoarthritis.

Chronic joint pain often stems from conditions like arthritis, cartilage damage, overuse injuries, ligament tears, or inflammation. Scheduling an orthopedic evaluation can help pinpoint the cause and guide you toward a tailored treatment plan.

Tendons and ligaments serve different purposes in your body. Tendons connect muscles to bones, enabling movement, while ligaments connect bones to other bones, ensuring joint stability.

Physical therapy restores strength, flexibility, and proper movement patterns, which reduces pain, prevents re-injury, and accelerates recovery for sprains, strains, and tendon injuries.

A sprain is a ligament injury (stretch or tear), while a strain is a muscle or tendon injury. Mild injuries may heal with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), while severe cases may require immobilization or surgery.

There is no difference - “fracture” is the medical term for a broken bone. Treatment may involve casting, bracing, or surgery depending on severity.

Fractures are typically treated with immobilization, such as casts or splints, to allow the bone to heal. In some cases, surgery involving plates, screws, or rods may be necessary. Recovery time varies depending on the location and severity of the fracture, as well as your overall health.

You can prevent musculoskeletal injuries by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with regular exercise, and using proper body mechanics. Always warm up before physical activities and wear supportive footwear. Strengthening your muscles and improving flexibility can also reduce strain on your joints and tendons.

Regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy, can help repair damaged tissues, reduce pain, and improve function for joints, tendons, and ligaments. To learn more about regenerative techniques, visit our page!

Recovery times vary based on the type and severity of the injury, as well as your overall health and treatment plan. Minor sprains might heal in a few weeks, while more severe injuries like fractures or surgeries could take several months. Following your treatment plan and attending therapy sessions can significantly speed up your recovery.