Can You Delay Treatment for Your Orthopaedic Condition?
Orthopaedic conditions that require immediate attention
If you sustain any of the following orthopaedic injuries, visit your nearest Urgent Care Centre (UCC) immediately.
Distal radius fracture (wrist fracture)
The distal radius is the most commonly fractured bone in the wrist and this fracture typically occurs following a fall with an outstretched arm. You will experience pain and swelling of the wrist. Mild fractures may be treated with a splint and a follow-up appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon. However, more severe deformities and open fractures will require surgical repair.
Shoulder dislocation
This happens when the shoulder pops out of its socket, and usually occurs with sports injuries or accidents. If you suspect that you have a shoulder dislocation, do not delay treatment and make a visit to the UCC immediately. The doctor will evaluate your injury and pop the joint back in place.
If, upon examination, the doctor suspects a fracture of the bone as well, additional imaging will be ordered. Surgery may be required in cases where there are associated fractures or when there have been recurrent dislocations.
Hip fracture
Hip fractures are common among females 65 years and over and are usually caused by a fall. Delayed treatment can lead to aggravation of the injury and further complications, so it is important to consult a doctor as soon as you can.
You will be given medication to control เล่นเกมคาสิโน UFABET ทันสมัย ฝากถอนง่าย the pain, which you may feel in your hip, leg or groin. Imaging will be ordered so that your doctor can see the extent of the fracture to advise on the surgical treatment options.
Kneecap (patella) dislocation
These injuries tend to occur when doing sudden twists or turns. The knee cap pops out of its usual location in the front of the knee to the side of the knee. The symptoms include pain, swelling and deformity of the joint.
The knee cap often returns to its normal position on its own, but sometimes it may need to be carefully pushed back by the doctor at the emergency department. Seeking immediate care can help to reduce the likelihood of further joint damage, chronic pain, and recurrence of the dislocation.
Further MRI imaging may also be needed to assess the extent of the damage to the bone and cartilage. In first-time dislocations, your knee will be supported for 4 – 6 weeks with a knee brace or immobiliser.
Orthopaedic conditions that may benefit from early medical attention
These orthopaedic conditions may not require immediate medical attention, but in some cases may benefit from seeking early treatment. Dr Lingaraj Krishna discusses when early treatment is recommended, and how to manage your condition.
Osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis)
Painful joints caused by osteoarthritis can usually be treated with painkillers, exercises and physiotherapy. However, in some cases, the symptoms can be debilitating. If you have significant difficulty walking, standing or climbing stairs, it will be beneficial to seek early orthopaedic care.
In such cases, you may benefit from an injection of corticosteroid into your joint, and in more severe cases, surgery may be required.
Managing your condition
- Avoid doing things that intensify the pain, such as walking and climbing stairs, or lifting items above your head if you have shoulder pain
- Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control pain and swelling
- Apply ice or heat to the affected joint to reduce swelling and relieve pain
- Exercise regularly to preserve range of motion in the affected joint