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Achilles Tendon Injury
An Achilles tendon injury is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the thick band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It's one of the most commonly injured tendons in the body and can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to more severe injuries like tears or ruptures. Here's some information about Achilles tendon injuries.
Some of the causes of achilles tendon injury include:
Overuse or repetitive strain: Engaging in activities that involve jumping, running, or sudden acceleration and deceleration can lead to overuse injuries.
Tight calf muscles: Inadequate stretching can strain the Achilles tendon.
Sudden increase in activity level: Rapidly increasing the intensity or duration of exercise can stress the tendon.
Poor footwear: Wearing shoes without proper support or that don't fit well can contribute to injuries.
Aging: As people age, the Achilles tendon can become weaker and more prone to injury.
Achilles Tendon Injury
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Pain and tenderness in the back of the ankle, especially during physical activity.
Swelling around the Achilles tendon.
Stiffness and limited range of motion in the ankle.
A popping or snapping sensation during the injury.
In severe cases, difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe.
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Clinical assessment will include taking a detailed history and a thorough examination of your shoulder.
Further imaging tests like X-rays, MRI and CT scans may occasionally be required.
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If you have any of the symptoms above, it is advisable to see an orthopaedic specialist for further assessment.
The appropriate treatment is decided after assessment and a collaborative discussion based on your needs.
They can be broadly divided into conservative (non-surgical) and surgical options.
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Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain.
Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Compression: Using compression wraps or bands can aid in reducing swelling.
Elevation: Elevating the foot above heart level can help minimize swelling.
Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can promote healing.
Orthotics or proper footwear: Supportive footwear and inserts can alleviate strain.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used for pain relief and to reduce inflammation.
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Surgical treatment for an Achilles tendon injury is considered when the injury is severe, such as a complete tear or rupture, or if nonsurgical treatments have not provided sufficient improvement. Surgical intervention aims to reattach the torn or ruptured tendon ends, allowing for proper healing and restoration of function.
There are different surgical techniques for repairing the Achilles tendon, and the choice depends on factors like the location and severity of the injury, as well as the surgeon's expertise.
Common surgical approaches include open surgery and minimally invasive procedures.
Ankle Sprains
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An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect the bones of the ankle joint are stretched or torn due to a sudden twisting or rolling motion. Ligaments are strong, elastic bands that provide stability to the joint. Ankle sprains are categorised by their severity, ranging from mild to severe.
Ankle sprains can result from various factors, including:
Awkwardly planting the foot during sports or physical activities.
Stepping on uneven surfaces or objects.
Rolling or twisting the ankle during walking or running.
High-impact forces or trauma.
Ankle Sprains
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Common symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
Pain, especially when bearing weight or moving the ankle.
Swelling and tenderness around the ankle.
Bruising or discoloration of the skin.
Limited range of motion and stiffness.
Instability or feeling that the ankle is "giving way."
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Clinical assessment will include taking a detailed history and a thorough examination of your shoulder.
Further imaging tests like X-rays, MRI and CT scans may occasionally be required.
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Treatment for an ankle sprain depends on the severity of the injury.
If you have any of the symptoms above, it is advisable to see an orthopaedic specialist for further assessment.
The appropriate treatment is decided after assessment and a collaborative discussion based on your needs.
They can be broadly divided into conservative (non-surgical) and surgical options.
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R.I.C.E. Method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation are the initial steps to reduce pain and swelling.
Immobilisation: Mild to moderate sprains may require a brace or splint for support.
Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises help improve ankle strength, stability, and range of motion.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage discomfort.
Severe Sprains: In some cases, severe sprains may require immobilisation with a cast or walking boot.
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Surgical treatment for foot and ankle sprains is typically considered when the injury is severe and non-surgical methods have not provided adequate relief or stability.
Surgical Treatment Options:
Reconstruction of Torn Ligaments: In cases where ligaments are severely torn or detached, a surgical procedure may involve reattaching the ligaments to their anatomical positions using sutures, anchors, or other fixation devices.
Ligament Repair: Repairing a torn ligament involves suturing the ligament back together. This approach is often used for certain ligament injuries that have clean tears and are suitable for direct repair.
Ligament Reconstruction: If the ligament is extensively damaged, a reconstruction may involve using grafts (tissue from another part of the body or a donor) to replace the torn ligament. This is common in cases of chronic instability or multiple ligament injuries.
Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery involves making small incisions and using a tiny camera (arthroscope) to visualize and repair the damaged ligaments and other structures.
Ankle Stabilisation: Some surgical techniques involve stabilising the ankle joint by using screws, plates, or other hardware to reinforce the injured area and promote proper healing.
Tendon Repair or Transfer: In cases of severe ankle instability, a tendon transfer may be performed to provide additional stability to the ankle joint.
Cartilage Injury
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Cartilage plays a crucial role in providing cushioning and support to the joints of the foot and ankle. Injuries to this cartilage can occur due to trauma, overuse, or degenerative changes over time. These injuries can affect joint function and lead to discomfort.
Cartilage injuries at the foot and ankle can result from various factors, including:
Traumatic injuries, such as falls or accidents affecting the foot or ankle.
Repetitive impact or stress on the foot and ankle joints due to activities like running or jumping.
Underlying conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis that can contribute to cartilage deterioration.
Cartilage Injury
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Common symptoms of cartilage injuries at the foot and ankle include:
Pain, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities.
Swelling and tenderness around the affected area.
Decreased range of motion and joint stiffness.
A sensation of clicking, locking, or catching within the joint.
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Clinical assessment will include taking a detailed history and a thorough examination of your elbow.
Further imaging tests like X-rays, MRI scans and ultrasound scans may occasionally be required.
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Treatment for cartilage injuries at the foot and ankle depends on various factors, including the location and severity of the injury.
If you have any of the symptoms above, it is advisable to see an orthopaedic specialist for further assessment.
The appropriate treatment is decided after assessment and a collaborative discussion based on your needs.
They can be broadly divided into conservative (non-surgical) and surgical options.
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Conservative Treatment: Rest, immobilization, and physical therapy to improve joint stability and reduce pain.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Some injuries can be addressed with arthroscopic techniques, such as debridement or microfracture.
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For more severe injuries, surgical interventions like cartilage repair or transplantation may be considered.
Foot & Ankle Fractures
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Foot and ankle fractures encompass a range of injuries involving the bones of the foot and ankle joints. These fractures can result from various causes, including falls, accidents, sports-related impacts, or high-energy trauma. Understanding the type and severity of the fracture is essential for effective treatment and recovery.
Common types of foot and ankle fractures include:
Ankle Fractures: These involve breaks in the bones of the ankle joint, often due to twisting, falls, or direct impact.
Metatarsal Fractures: Fractures of the long bones in the foot, often caused by trauma or repetitive stress.
Phalanx Fractures: Fractures of the smaller bones in the toes, typically due to direct impact or crushing injuries.
Foot and ankle fractures can result from various factors, including:
Falls onto a foot or ankle.
Sports-related injuries or accidents.
Twisting motions during physical activities.
High-impact forces or trauma.
Foot & Ankle Fractures
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Common symptoms of a foot or ankle fracture include:
Pain at the site of the fracture, often worsened by movement.
Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the affected area.
Inability to bear weight on the affected foot or ankle.
Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the foot or ankle.
Limited range of motion and stiffness.
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A physical examination and order of X-rays will be necessary to confirm the diagnosis, assess the type of fracture, and determine if there are any associated injuries.
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Treatment for a foot or ankle fracture depends on factors such as the type of fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health.
If you have any of the symptoms above, it is advisable to see an orthopaedic specialist for further assessment.
The appropriate treatment is decided after assessment and a collaborative discussion based on your needs.
They can be broadly divided into conservative (non-surgical) and surgical options.
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Immobilisation: Mild to moderate fractures may require casting, splinting, or a walking boot for support.
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Some fractures, especially those with significant displacement, may require surgical intervention to realign the bones and stabilise them with hardware.