General Orthopedics

There are many forms of arthritis that cause the telltale symptoms of inflammation and stiffening of the joints.

Osteoarthritis is the most common, occurring when the cushioning cartilage where bones meet wears away over time, causing bones to rub together and leading to pain, swelling, and immobility. Bone spurs can develop, exacerbating the condition. Most people over the age of 60 have osteoarthritis to some extent.

There are nonsurgical and surgical options for arthritic joints, depending on the location and intensity of a patient’s symptoms.

The shoulders, elbows, and hips are the most common parts of the body affected by bursitis.

The condition occurs when the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that protect joints throughout the body become inflamed. Bursitis symptoms mimic those of arthritis – pain, swelling, and stiffness – making diagnosis difficult. Bursitis can occur as the result of repetitive motion, trauma, or even rheumatoid arthritis. Surgery is rarely required in most cases.

Any type of bone break is called a fracture. Next to joint pain, fractures are one of the most common reasons a person may initially seek care from an orthopedic specialist.

Sometimes, a patient may come to us seeking help for joint pain only to discover the cause is actually a bone fracture or bone dislocation.

Fractures may require surgery or bracing (such as casts or splints), or sometimes both. Some type of physical therapy is often recommended to ensure proper movement and functioning after the bones heal.

A common soft-tissue injury, strains occur when muscles or tendons are stretched or torn. Sprains occur when the ligaments connecting bones are stretched or torn.

The ankles are most often subject to sprains, while the lower back and hamstring are the most common type of strains. In both cases, patients are often unable to move the affected area without pain.

Not only can the care providers at The Bone & Joint Center treat your particular sprain or strain but they can also help you prevent future injury to the area.

The inflammation of tendonitis can occur in any tendon in the body, although it tends to occur most often around the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, or heel.

The most common types of tendonitis include tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, swimmer’s shoulder, patellar tendonitis, and Achilles tendonitis.

While trauma can cause tendonitis, most instances are caused by repetitive use. And because tendons connect muscle to bone, inflammation can cause pain with movement and/or a reduced range of motion.

In many cases, rest along with pain relief and physical therapy can resolve a patient’s symptoms. However, without appropriate care, a tendon may rupture and require surgery.