Frequently Asked Questions on Orthopedic Conditions


Orthopedic Conditions

What is the rotator cuff?

The rotator cuff is the name given to the group of muscles and their tendons attached to the shoulder, stabilizing it and allowing it to move.

What are the different types of rotator cuff injuries?

Rotator cuff tendonitis is irritation and swelling of the tendons in the shoulder.

Rotator cuff tear - overusing the shoulder can result in a tendon tear leading to pain, stiffness, and weakness in that area.

What is the treatment for rotator cuff injuries?

Physical therapy is often the first treatment plan; however, surgery may be required for a tear.

How is a sprain different from a strain?

A sprain is a torn or stretched ligament, while a strain occurs when a tendon or muscle fiber is stretched or torn.

How do sprains occur?

Excessive force or a sudden jerk of the joint, like a twist or a turn, can lead to a sprain.

What about strains? How do they occur?

Muscle strains happen if the muscle has been too stretched or forced to contract too strongly. This leads to muscle fiber damage which could either be mild or severe.

How severe can a strain be?

All sprains and strains are classified under three categories depending on the severity – grade I, II, and III. Grade I is a mild sprain or strain which should heal fast. It stretches the ligament or muscle but does not tear it. Grade II would indicate a moderate injury or partial tear of the ligament or muscle. This is accompanied by mild swelling and some loss of strength. A Grade III sprain or strain is a significant muscle or ligament tear and can be quite serious. It causes considerable pain, swelling, and joint instability.

How can I treat a mild ankle sprain?

Mild sprains can often be treated at home by resting the injured joint, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, limiting movement, and applying ice wrapped in a cloth to the injured joint every two or three hours daily. You can relieve pain with an OTC anti-inflammatory. Wrapping the ankle in a compression bandage and keeping it elevated will reduce swelling. This is the PRICE method, which is explained below.

How long does it normally take for sprains to heal?

It will all depend on the severity of the sprain. The healing process usually takes four to six weeks, but if it is a minor sprain, it could take anywhere from five to 14 days as long as you have followed the recommended rest, ice pack, and compression therapy. If the sprain is serious, it could take up to four months to heal. Always talk to your doctor before resuming activities and sports.

What is PRICE?

The PRICE method is a common treatment for a sprain.

  • Protect - Cover or brace the injury
  • Rest - Rest the injured area
  • Ice – Apply an ice pack
  • Compress – Wrap the injury with a compression bandage
  • Elevate – Keep the sprained joint elevated

What is a frozen shoulder?

A frozen shoulder is a condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. The symptoms can worsen and last as long as two years.

What are the symptoms of a frozen shoulder?

It begins with pain in the shoulder, and with time, movement of the shoulder joint becomes limited. Eventually, the range of motion is reduced considerably. With time, the joint starts to improve. The pain is usually worse at night.

How can I get a frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, can develop if you stop using the shoulder after surgery because of pain or a chronic health condition. A frozen shoulder can also occur if you have fractured your arm.

What is a dislocated shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper end of the arm ball joint pops out of the shoulder joint socket. In technical terms, it means the separation of the humerus from the scapula at the glenohumeral joint.

How does a dislocated shoulder occur?

You can dislocate your shoulder either by a direct blow to the shoulder, a sudden throwing motion, or if you have a fall directly impacting an outstretched arm or hand.

Am I at risk of getting a tennis elbow if I play too much tennis?

No, tennis elbow is a term used to refer to a condition caused by overuse of the arm, forearm, or hand muscles, leading to elbow pain. Although it is common among tennis players, it is not restricted to those who play the sport, and anyone can get it. Medically, it is referred to as lateral epicondylitis.

Who is affected by a tennis elbow?

Though this condition is common among tennis players, it can affect anyone who uses repetitive arm, elbow, wrist, and hand movements. It usually hits those between 30 and 50, affecting men more than women.

What is a golfer's elbow? Is it the same as a tennis elbow?

No, a golfer's elbow is an injury of the muscle and tendon area around the inside of the elbow. The damage from a tennis elbow occurs outside the elbow. The medical term for a golfer's elbow is medial epicondylitis.