Signs You Must See An Orthopedic Specialist Sooner Than Later
The human body has hundreds of bones that keep it active and moving. If your bones and joints are not healthy enough, you experience pain and discomfort. Failing to get help even puts you at the risk of losing your mobility and quality of life. It is vital to ensure your bones and joints function properly and stay healthy over the years. The aging woes make it even more crucial to go the extra mile with bone wellness. An orthopedic doctor can help you on all fronts. But people tend to overlook common signs of orthopedic issues until the condition aggravates and leads to dire complications. Here are a few signs indicating that you must see an orthopedic specialist sooner than later.
Chronic pain
Any pain lasting longer than twelve weeks is a reason to worry. It can cause discomfort, lead to sleep deprivation, and even affect mobility down the line. The worst part is that you may become dependent on painkillers and experience severe side effects due to prolonged use of medications. Moreover, chronic pain requires expert diagnoses because there could be an underlying medical problem or injury that may require attention and treatment. The sooner you see a specialist, the better, as they will diagnose the issue and start treatment at the earliest.
Difficulty performing daily activities
Healthy bones keep you active and moving even as you grow older. But they deteriorate naturally with aging, and there isn’t much you can do about it. You may experience difficulty performing daily activities such as climbing stairs, lifting things, and walking your dog. The problem may worsen to an extent that even simple tasks like walking, standing, and sitting may become challenging. You should not overlook these warning signs and must-visit an orthopedist right away. They can recommend supplementation and exercises to retain bone density and health despite aging.
A limited range of motion
Another bone health indication you should not overlook is a limited range of motion. According to the orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Warren J. Strudwick, Jr., joint stiffness and tightness require immediate medical attention. As the condition worsens, it leads to a limited range of motion. Besides the discomfort factor, it may indicate a severe joint disease such as arthritis. You must see a specialist to prevent the condition from aggravating beyond resolution.
Numbness or tingling
Numbness or tingling sensations in your thumb, index, or middle finger may be a warning sign of carpal tunnel syndrome. The condition may occur due to a previous wrist fracture or working consistently with tools that vibrate or require repetitive flexing. The pressure on the median nerve running from the forearm to the wrist causes numbness. Not getting treatment can cause weakness and lack of coordination, so you must get help sooner than later.
A soft tissue injury
Besides age-related weakness and underlying disease, injuries can affect your skeletal health. The worst way to deal with injuries is by overlooking them. You may have to opt for emergency orthopedic care in case of a soft tissue injury such as a sprained ankle, busted wrist, or twisted knee. The underlying injury may require medical attention if the pain and swelling do not subside within two days. You may need treatment or even surgery to resolve the problem. Avoid delaying it beyond 48 hours and visit an orthopedic specialist for timely treatment.
An orthopedist can diagnose injuries, diseases, abnormalities, and deficiencies in bones and joints. Visit an expert sooner than later if you experience any of these symptoms. You may also consider preventive and restorative checks and therapies to maintain bone health over the years.
