Common orthopedic problems are more prevalent than we think. From simple sprains to severe joint problems, these conditions affect all age groups and lifestyles. At whatever stage of life you are in, whether you are an athlete, a working professional, or a senior citizen, orthopaedic problems and orthopaedic health play a critical role in your healthcare.
In this post, we will look at 7 of the most common orthopaedic problems and what effective treatments are available, which will also include information on the experts in Ahmedabad. If you are in search of a reliable orthopaedic doctor in Ahmedabad or a sports injury specialist in your area, this guide is to help you make informed decisions.
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
What it is:
A chronic joint disease that causes cartilage between bones to wear out over time. It also affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Common symptoms:
- Pain during or after movement
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Reduced range of motion
- Swelling around the joint
Treatment options:
- Weight management and physical therapy
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Injections (corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid)
In late-stage cases of joint disease that require surgery.
Note: Patients who present with knee pain tend to confuse what they have as OA with general fatigue. It is of great importance to get an early diagnosis at your local Knee pain hospital near you to prevent long-term damage.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
What it is:
An autoimmune disease that sees the immune system attack healthy joint tissue. Unlike OA, RA affects many joints at the same time and is more inflammatory.
Common symptoms:
- Warm, swollen joints
- Fatigue
- Joint tightness that lasts over 30 minutes.
- Symmetrical symptoms (in the same joints on both sides).
Treatment options:
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
- Biologic medications
- Physical therapy
Why act fast:
RA is very progressive. In Ahmedabad, consulting a specialist orthopaedic at the early stage can slow joint damage.
3. Sports Related Injuries (ACL, Meniscus Tears, Rotator Cuff Injuries).
What they are:
These types of injuries happen during play sports and sudden physical movement. Also, see in young people and athletes.
Typical cases:
- ACL tears in football/cricket players
- Meniscus injuries in runners
- Rotator cuff injuries in swimmers and weightlifters.
Treatment options:
- REST, ICE, Compression, Elevation.
- Physical rehabilitation
- Arthroscopic surgery (minimally invasive)
- Specialised sports injury recovery programs
Important tip:
If you are an athlete or at the health and fitness peak, see a sports specialist surgeon in Ahmedabad who will put you in the best of care for the right treatment that doesn’t impair your performance.
4. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
What it is:
A condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder, which over months sees the range of motion diminish.
Symptoms to look for:
- Gradual increase in shoulder stiffness
- Pain that worsens at night
- Difficulty in performing daily tasks, which include reaching or lifting.
Treatment options:
- Physical therapy and stretching
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Steroid injections
- In rare cases, surgical intervention
Who it affects:
In people aged 40 to 60, which is when it’s best to see it, also in those with diabetes or who have had recent surgery or injury.
5. Tendonitis Tendinitis.
What it is:
Tendon inflammation is a result of repetitive movements or overuse.
Frequent locations:
- Shoulder
- Elbow (tennis elbow)
- Wrist
- Achilles tendon
Symptoms of:
- Dull ache during movement
- Swelling and tenderness
- Joint stiffness in the morning
Treatment options:
- Rest and ice application
- Bracing or support devices
- Targeted physiotherapy
- Surgery if the tendon is ruptured
Recovery insight:
With initial care, most tendonitis cases resolve without surgery. Also, see a certified orthopaedic professional for a rehab plan.
6. Lower back problems (Degenerative Disc Disease, Sciatica).
What it is:
Back pain is a result of worn-out discs, pinched nerves, or muscular imbalance. Also, it may cause limited mobility and interference in your daily life.
Common signs:
- Pain radiating to the legs (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling
- Chronic lower back pain.
Treatment options:
- Physiotherapy with core strengthening
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Spinal injections
- Surgery for severe disc degeneration or a pinched nerve.
Take note:
Consult an orthopaedic doctor near you early to prevent symptoms from getting worse.
7. Fractures (Stress, Traumatic, or Pathological)
What they are:
Broken bones from trauma, repeated stress, or certain medical conditions like osteoporosis.
Types of fractures:
- Simple or closed fracture
- Compound or open fracture
- Hairline (stress) fracture
- Pathological fracture
Treatment options:
- Immobilisation (casts, splints)
- Surgical repositioning (use of rods or plates).
- Physical therapy post-healing
Pro tip:
Not all fractures present with sharp pain. If you think you have a fracture, go to the nearest emergency room or trusted orthopaedist for X-rays.
When to see an orthopaedic doctor.
Don’t put off until the pain is beyond what you can bear. See a specialist if you notice:
- Persistent pain that lasts over a few days.
- Swelling or inflammation around joints
- Limited range of motion
- Unsteady while walking or climbing stairs.
- Recurrent problems with injuries in sports and workouts.
Why does Dr. Samip Sheth stand out?
Dr. Samip Sheth is a trusted name in the field of orthopaedics in Ahmedabad. He treats a wide range of joint problems, sports injuries, and complex surgical cases with personal attention and modern methods.
Why patients prefer Dr. Samip Sheth:
- Advanced skill set in knee, shoulder, and sports injuries.
- Minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques
- Patient-centred care is very transparent and supportive through the recovery process.
- Proven history of success with young athletes and senior citizens.
If you have had ongoing orthopaedic problems or are in the process of recovery from an injury, do not ignore what you are feeling. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key in preventing chronic pain and will get you back to your normal routine faster.
Take the First Step Towards Recovery
Book a time with Dr. Samip Sheth who is a top orthopaedic doctor in Ahmedabad and sports specialist surgeon for the best care of your condition.
Recover your mobility. Back into health. Live pain-free.