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4 Misconceptions About Plantar Fasciitis Debunked

Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent lower limb condition that can send discomfort straight to the bottom of your heel. This is caused by an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a connective tissue band between your heel bone and toes. Join us as we unravel four common misconceptions about plantar fasciitis, shedding light on the realities of this condition. Misconception 1: Plantar Fasciitis Only Affects Older People One of the more common myths surrounding plantar fasciitis is that it is a condition reserved for the elderly. In reality, age is just one factor, and this condition can affect individuals across different age groups. Orthopaedic doctors have seen athletes, professionals, and anyone who spends extended periods on their feet grappling with the discomfort of plantar fasciitis. This misconception often stems from the wear and tear that occurs naturally with age, but it is crucial to recognise that overuse or strain on the feet can also trigger plantar fasciitis at any age. Seeking prompt medical attention and understanding preventive measures can be beneficial for anyone. Misconception 2: Plantar Fasciitis Is Permanent While it can be a persistent issue for some, many individuals experience significant relief with the right treatment at an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore and lifestyle adjustments. Learn more: When Do I Need To Visit An Orthopaedic Clinic In Singapore? Orthopaedic doctors offer tailored solutions for managing and alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms. From customised orthotics to physical therapy, there are effective interventions that can make a significant difference. Misconception 3: Plantar Fasciitis Will Recover on Its Own Some believe that time alone can heal plantar fasciitis. It is true that having sufficient rest is undoubtedly important, relying solely on the passage of time may not bring complete relief. Ignoring the symptoms and assuming they will vanish on their own can lead to prolonged discomfort and potential complications. As such, timely intervention and targeted treatments are pivotal for a speedier recovery. From gentle stretching exercises to specific footwear recommendations, an orthopaedic doctor can guide you through a comprehensive recovery plan. Misconception 4: Plantar Fasciitis is Always Accompanied by Swelling Unlike some medical conditions where swelling is a hallmark symptom, plantar fasciitis does not universally manifest in noticeable foot swelling. A primary and more consistent indicator of the condition is pain. Individuals with plantar fasciitis often experience sharp or stabbing pain, particularly during the first steps taken in the morning or after extended periods of inactivity. It is essential to consult with an orthopaedic doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies to lessen the impact of the pain on daily activities. Happy Feet, Healthy Steps With the right approach, plantar fasciitis does not have to be a lifelong companion. Seek professional guidance, debunk the myths, and take proactive steps towards a pain-free journey on your feet. At Specialist Orthopaedic Clinic, our commitment extends to empowering you with accurate information. Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal, our resident orthopaedic doctor, will also work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan which may include targeted exercises, customised orthotics, and lifestyle adjustments. Get in touch to find out more.

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A Guide To Chronic Achilles Tendon Problems

The Achilles tendon is a crucial player in our daily movement but often bears the brunt of our activities, causing it to become susceptible to chronic issues. If you find yourself grappling with persistent Achilles tendon problems, you are not alone. Keep reading to explore chronic Achilles tendon conditions you should be aware of and how an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore can help. Learn more: Achilles Tendon Injuries: Risk Factors & Treatments Understanding the Achilles Tendon Composed of fibrous tissue, it connects important muscles in the calf to the heel bone, allowing for the transmission of force and enabling the foot to push off the ground during activities like walking or running. The elastic properties of the Achilles tendon store and release energy, enhancing the efficiency of these movements. Beyond propulsion, it also plays a vital role in maintaining balance and stability, especially during weight-bearing activities. However, the repetitive stress of certain activities can lead to a range of problems, making it more difficult to complete everyday activities. Chronic Achilles Tendon Problems 1. Paratenonitis Paratenonitis refers to the inflammation of the paratenon, a thin sheath of tissue enveloping the Achilles tendon. Some contributing factors to the condition include repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon from running and jumping, ill-fitting or inappropriate footwear that increases friction and irritation around the tendon, and anatomical factors such as flat feet or high arches. Recognising the symptoms of paratenonitis is important for early intervention. Some clear indications are inflammation, tenderness and localised pain around the Achilles tendon, especially during movement. 2. Insertional Tendonitis Insertional tendonitis occurs at the insertion point of the Achilles tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone. Engaging in activities that place excessive stress on the Achilles tendon, such as running or activities involving frequent jumping, can contribute to the condition. Furthermore, anatomical factors like flat feet or high arches can alter the biomechanics of the foot, potentially leading to increased stress on the Achilles insertion point. Look out for heel pain during physical activities, discomfort and stiffness in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and swelling. It is advisable to visit an orthopaedic doctor for treatment early should you notice these symptoms. 3. Non-Insertional Tendonitis Non-insertional tendonitis affects the middle portion of the Achilles tendon, away from its attachment to the heel bone. This condition often arises from overuse, repetitive stress, or age-related degeneration, making it a prevalent concern for individuals engaged in regular physical activities. Learn more: 5 Useful Tips To Avoid Orthopaedic Injuries As We Age Take note of discomfort in the middle of the Achilles tendon that is often exacerbated by movement, inflammation, and reduced flexibility. Consulting with an orthopaedic doctor is crucial for a thorough assessment and a tailored treatment plan. 4. Achilles Tendon Rupture The Achilles tendon is renowned for its strength but under certain circumstances, it can succumb to the forces it endures, resulting in a rupture. This injury often manifests as a sudden and sharp pain, sometimes mistaken for severe tendonitis. Athletes participating in sports that involve explosive movements are particularly susceptible, while natural wear and tear as an individual ages can increase the risk as well. It is important to identify the signs of a rupture as it is essential for swift medical attention. A sharp pain often described as a "pop" or "snap" at the back of the ankle, immediate swelling and bruising, and difficulty walking or standing on toes are common signs. Nurturing Achilles Health Maintaining a healthy Achilles tendon can help to reduce the risk of problems mentioned above and it involves a combination of mindful practices: 1. Proper Warm-up and Stretching Adequate warm-up and stretching before physical activities can prevent tendon injuries. 2. Strengthening Exercises Targeted exercises to strengthen the calf muscles can provide added support to the Achilles tendon. 3. Choosing Proper Footwear Choosing appropriate footwear reduces friction and irritation, contributing to overall Achilles health. Safeguard Your Steps and Cherish Your Stride By incorporating preventive measures and seeking timely intervention when needed, we can ensure that our Achilles tendons continue to support us through life's activities. Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal at the Specialist Orthopaedic Centre provides a range of services including Achilles tendonitis treatment in Singapore. Get in touch with us to find out more.

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What You Need To Know About Geriatric Fractures

In this article, we will delve into what you need to know about geriatric fractures, including risk factors, types of trauma, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about geriatric fractures, consulting an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore is a prudent step toward proactive care and prevention.

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How You Can Start Preventive Measures Against Osteoporosis

As the years go by, our bones become fragile and susceptible to osteoporosis, a condition that affects millions worldwide. Osteoporosis poses a serious threat, leading to debilitating fractures and a diminished quality of life. But contrary to popular belief, this bone-weakening condition is not exclusively confined to the elderly and can strike at any age. Thus, prevention is key. Keep reading for preventative measures recommended by orthopaedic doctors. 1. Have a balanced diet A well-balanced and nutrient-rich eating plan plays a vital role in fortifying our bones and reducing the risk of fractures. These are the key nutrients to load up on: Calcium An adequate intake of calcium throughout life helps to build strong bones and maintain bone density. Dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium. However, if you are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options, plant-based milk, tofu, and almonds can also provide significant amounts of calcium. Vitamin D Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and utilisation. Although our bodies can naturally produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, it can also be obtained from dietary sources. Fatty fish and egg yolks are good sources of vitamin D. If necessary, vitamin D supplements may be recommended by an orthopaedic doctor, especially if you get limited sun exposure or have specific medical conditions. Protein Protein is not only vital for muscle growth and repair, but also for maintaining bone health. Our bones require a steady supply of protein to support the continuous process of bone remodelling. Good sources of lean protein include poultry, fish, lean meats, and beans. 2. Exercise regularly Regular physical activity enhances overall health but also plays a crucial role in building and maintaining strong bones. These are the recommended exercises: Weight-bearing exercises Walking, running and jumping rope are some weight-bearing exercises that require your body to work against gravity, stimulating bone cells to build new bone tissue and improve bone density. Resistance training Resistance training involves using external resistance such as free weights, resistance bands, or weight machines to challenge and strengthen muscles. Engaging in resistance training exercises not only improves muscle strength and tone, but also places stress on the bones to enhance overall bone health. Balance and stability exercises Incorporating balance and stability exercises into your routine is crucial for preventing falls and fractures. Exercises such as yoga and pilates focus on improving balance, coordination, and core strength. These activities help to enhance muscle control and stability, reducing the likelihood of falls and injuries like an ankle fracture. Learn more: 6 Common Types of Ankle Surgery an Orthopaedic Doctor Performs 3. Make lifestyle changes Making conscious decisions to modify certain habits creates an environment that fosters bone health and reduces the risk of fractures. These are some lifestyle changes to make: Quit smoking Smoking interferes with the body's ability to absorb calcium, reduces estrogen levels (which are vital for bone health), and inhibits bone-forming cells, leading to decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures. Quitting smoking is important, as it allows your bones to thrive without the damaging effects of tobacco. Limit alcohol consumption Alcohol interferes with the body's ability to absorb calcium and vitamin D, disrupts hormone production, and impairs the function of bone-building cells. These factors collectively contribute to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures. It is recommended to limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels, which means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. Go for regular checkups Regular checkups with an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore are invaluable in the prevention and management of osteoporosis. They can assess your risk factors, provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, and recommend appropriate interventions if necessary. 4. Take medications Medications play a pivotal role in preventing osteoporosis, offering specific interventions to enhance bone health. These are the pharmacological options delivered in the forms of oral medications or injectables that are available: Bone-forming drugs Bone-forming drugs work by stimulating the activity of bone-forming cells called osteoblasts. They promote bone formation and increase bone density, and are typically recommended by orthopaedic doctors for individuals with severe osteoporosis or those at high risk of fractures. Antiresorptive drugs These medications work by slowing down or inhibiting the activity of cells that break down bone, helping to preserve bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. Orthopaedic doctors typically prescribe them to postmenopausal women and individuals at risk of osteoporotic fractures. Fight Osteoporosis With Knowledge and Action Specialist Orthopaedic Centre offers comprehensive care and advanced treatments that address the underlying causes of osteoporosis while prioritising patient well-being. Our resident doctor, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal, is dedicated to helping patients seek relief from osteoporosis so they can go back to living their lives to the fullest. Learn more: 5 Tips for Choosing the Right Orthopaedic Surgeon Do not let osteoporosis hold you back — visit an orthopaedic doctor near you today. Contact us to find out more!

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How Bunions Can Affect Your Overall Health & Quality Of Life

Bunions are deformities that form at the base of your big toe. They present as hard bony bumps that slowly develop and grow larger over time. The causes of bunions are still not fully understood although it is speculated that genetic heritability, improper footwear, or congenital defects could be contributing factors. If left untreated, bunions can lead to painful symptoms, affect your mobility, and force you to make unwanted lifestyle choices. Learn More: What is a Bunion? Impaired Foot Function Bunions are created when the joint at the base of your big toe gets misaligned. This causes the bony bump that is the hallmark of all bunions. At smaller sizes, you might be able to ignore the protrusion. However as they grow larger, they can begin causing problems with your other toes. This can lead to frequent occurrences of corns, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and calluses. The pain from a bunion might also alter the way you walk. You might unconsciously shift weight away from your big toe joint which can lead to added strain on the balls of your feet, a condition known as metatarsalgia. If your bunions have progressed to this stage, you may want to consider visiting an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore to explore treatment options. Bunions May Discourage Active Lifestyles Many people already lead sedentary lives which lowers their physical health and increases the risk of chronic diseases. The pain and discomfort from a bunion in your foot can exacerbate these unhealthy habits and lead to an avoidance of activities involving walking or running. Severe bunions can even impose restrictions on simple everyday tasks like walking to a nearby supermarket. Foot Arthritis People with bunions are more likely to develop foot arthritis as their big toe joint is out of alignment and more stress is placed on their cartilage. Over time, wear and tear causes cartilage to thin. Without cartilage, bones end up rubbing together, causing stiffness and inflammation. Affects Your Movement Larger more severe bunions are not only more painful, they can affect your gait and balance. The bend from bunion formation makes your big toe bend inwards towards your other toes. This altered posture impacts the way your foot hits the ground and can make you more prone to tripping and falling. For people with other mobility problems, minimally invasive bunion surgery might be a good way to reduce their future risk of injury. More Prone To Feet Infections Corns and calluses are a side effect of developing bunions. Although they are mostly harmless, on occasion they can get infected and might end up requiring medical or even surgical intervention. Since bunions lead to an increasing frequency of corn and callus formation, individuals with severe bunion issues might find that they are more susceptible to such foot infections. Unable To Wear Certain Footwear Bunions can also make it harder for your feet to slide into certain types of footwear, especially those that are tight or form-fitting. It can be difficult to find shoes that don't aggravate the condition, while also being comfortable for walking. One solution lies in specially designed orthotics which are commonly used as a method of dealing with bunions. On the surface, bunions might seem like minor inconveniences. But as time goes on, they can develop very real problems that affect your quality of life significantly. If you have a bunion, it is advisable to visit a specialist to discuss options like footwear modifications or bunion surgery in Singapore. With advances in technology,minimally invasive bunion surgeries can even be conducted as a day surgery to minimise pain and trauma. As a foot and ankle specialist in Singapore, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal has experience and training in helping patients with bunions. To learn more about treatment options and the services we provide, reach out to us via our contact us page today.

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6 Common Types Of Ankle Surgery An Orthopaedic Doctor Performs

Whenever we walk, run, or jump, our feet and especially our ankles bear the brunt of the stress. Over time, this strain on our ankles can eventually lead to severe injuries which may not respond to non-surgical interventions like rest, custom orthotics, braces, or physical therapy. Learn More: What Treatments Do Ankle Specialists Offer Their Patients? The way to move forward in such cases might be to opt for ankle surgery to repair fractures, ligament tears, and joint or tendon problems. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of the common types of ankle surgeries performed by orthopaedic doctors in Singapore.

1) Arthroscopy An Arthroscopy, also referred to as a “keyhole surgery” is a procedure where a camera is inserted into your ankle to diagnose problems with joint and ligaments. During an Arthroscopy, small cuts are made at the bottom of your feet and the camera is inserted through these incisions. Arthroscopy is an effective, minimally-invasive surgery that can both diagnose and treat ankle instability, ankle impingement, bone spurs, torn ligaments, or scar tissue. Arthroscopy is usually performed as an outpatient surgery and you should be able to go home on the same day with recovery time usually spanning a few weeks. 2) Ankle Fracture Fixation An ankle fracture in Singapore is a break to one of the three bones that make up the ankle joint. Non-severe fractures, known as nondisplaced fractures, where the bones have not moved out of place can be treated via leg casts and special boots. However, displaced fractures, where the bone fragments are separated, might require surgery. Especially if the ankle joint has been dislocated as well. Depending on the extent of the fracture, screws and plates might be inserted during the surgery to keep the joint bones in place during recovery. 3) Ankle Replacement If you have a severe case of osteoarthritis, and your ankle cartilage has broken down completely, ankle replacement surgery might be recommended by your orthopaedic doctor to remove the damaged cartilage and replace it with artificial parts. These artificial joints help the ankle with more natural movement patterns to reduce risk of arthritis happening in nearby joints. The entire surgical procedure for a complete ankle replacement might take several hours and you might need to be on crutches for a few weeks. 4) Ankle Tendon Repair Tendons are banded tissues that connect muscle to bone. They work together to ensure full functionality and stability of the ankle joint. Injuries to ankle tendons include acute tears, tendonitis, tendinopathy, and tendinosis. While non-surgical treatment methods are preferred, in cases where they are ineffective, surgical ankle tendon repair becomes a necessity. During an ankle tendon repair, an incision is made and damaged tissues are removed. Torn ends of tendons may also be sewn together. Recovery might take several months with physical therapy playing an important role. 5) Lateral ankle ligament reconstruction A lateral ankle ligament reconstruction is a surgery that is used to tighten and strengthen ankle ligaments. It is generally recommended by foot and ankle specialists for patients who have loose or overstretched ankle ligaments leading to chronic ankle instability. It is usually performed as an outpatient surgery and there are several different techniques that can be called upon for the procedure, depending on the type of injury sustained. Most commonly, the patient’s ligament can be repaired with stitches. An alternative option is to use a grafted tendon to repair the ligament. 6) Achilles Tendon Treatment The achilles tendon connects the muscles in your calf to your heel bone. If you have completely ruptured your achilles tendon, surgery might be the preferred way to move forward to reduce chances of re-rupture. Surgery for achilles tendon involves making an incision at the back of your ankle and stitching the torn tendon back together. Recovery timeline for achilles tendon surgery is around 4-6 months depending on injury severity. As with all types of surgery, there’s always an element of risk involved. In many cases, the benefits to the patient are weighed against the potential complications before any decision is made about treatment protocol. Other factors like the quality of life for the patient and how it may affect their occupation or lifestyle are also considered. As a foot and ankle specialist in Singapore, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal is an orthopaedic surgeon with years of experience in lower limb disorders and surgical treatment. At his clinic, the Specialist Orthopaedic Centre, the aim is to provide quality medical treatment that is customised to fit a patient’s needs and means. Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide and make an appointment with our team.

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What You Need To Know About Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

A bunion is a painful bony bump that projects out from the inside of the foot at the big toe joint. Bunions usually develop slowly and cause more pain over time as they increase in size. They are formed when a misalignment of the bones in your feet causes your big toe joint to grow in size and protrude out. The bunion sticking out from your forefoot can cause pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness. The exact causes of bunions are unknown but studies have shown a genetic inheritability of the condition and certain foot types seem more prone to getting bunions. Treatment Options Bunions don’t go away on their own and most treatment options focus on relieving the symptoms. These include bunion pads to cushion the area, changes in footwear to take the pressure off your feet, or orthotic devices to manage alignment issues. None of these options are curative and are intended to alleviate pain and discomfort. If your bunions have progressed to a stage where walking becomes difficult, then the recommended course of action may be to undergo bunion surgery in Singapore. Bunion Surgery Traditional open bunion surgeries are invasive and involve removing the enlarged bone forming the bunion, before realigning the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the joint. It is usually painful and recovery can take several weeks. Patients will also have to be reliant on continuous support from dressings and braces for proper healing. Physical therapy might also be required to rebuild strength in the operated joints. However, new minimally invasive surgery techniques have been developed with the goal being to correct bunion issues with as little direct intervention as possible. They provide myriad benefits over open bunion surgery, and are fast being touted as a preferred option for many patients by orthopaedic doctors in Singapore. Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery Minimally invasive bunion surgery is performed using multiple small incisions as opposed to the one long cut that is required for open bunion surgeries. The smaller incisions are guided by X-ray imaging and serve to allow a surgical burr to make fine cuts. Excess bones are removed through the small incisions which only need a few stitches to close up. Small corrections to the bones can also be made through the incisions to reposition the bones. These realignments are held in place with strong implants which allow immediate weight bearing by the patient. Learn More: 4 Types Of Surgeries That Orthopaedic Surgeons Offer Benefits of Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery In comparison to open bunion surgery in Singapore where a surgical saw is used to cut through bone, minimally invasive bunion surgery looks to reduce pain and decrease recovery time. Pain after minimally invasive surgery is limited to a few days. In fact minimally invasive surgery can even be performed as a day surgery with painkillers only required for 3-5 days due to the far less traumatic nature of the surgery. Recovery timelines range from a few weeks for resumption of normal activities, to a few months to return to full impact sports. An additional benefit of minimally invasive bunion surgery over open surgery is the lack of scarring. Open surgery usually leaves a long scar down your toe joint while minimally invasive surgery only has a few incisions which are less noticeable as they heal. Developing bunions in your feet is a common issue that many people around the world face as they age. In many cases they can be managed with lifestyle changes, specially designed orthotics, or pain medication. If you have a more severe case that requires surgery, then new techniques that limit the amount of trauma and intervention involved can help speed up recovery and minimise any long term aftereffects. Have a question about bunions for a foot and ankle specialist in Singapore? Reach out to us via our contact us page with your queries and our support team will get back to you with answers or set up an appointment for a consultation.

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Ankle Pain: Tips From A Foot & Ankle Specialist

Your ankles are complex structures of tendons, muscles, and soft tissues that not only support the weight of your body, but also allow your feet to flex, move from side to side, and rotate. This complexity and range of motion is what causes ankle injuries to happen fairly frequently. Ankle pain can happen for a number of reasons ranging from inflammation from overuse, simple sprains to ankle fractures, which is the most severe form of injury which may require surgery. Ankle pain is a common symptom and risk factors include sports injuries or trauma. Read on to learn more about the different causes of ankle pain and tips to prevent injuries, reduce discomfort and the various treatment options. Bursitis Ankle bursitis is the inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs in your ankle called bursae. The bursa in your ankle help cushion the ankle joint and provide lubrication to make movement easier. When inflamed, there is usually pain and swelling in the ankle. Other symptoms include limping to avoid putting weight on your ankle, redness, and fever or chills in the rare case of infection. Ankle bursitis has overlapping symptoms with other conditions such as gout and hence it’s important to visit an ankle specialist in Singapore for an accurate diagnosis. Tendonitis Ankle tendons are bands of fibrous tissue that connect foot and ankle muscles to bones. They work together to support movement, balance, and stability while walking or running. Ankle tendonitis is a condition where these tendons become inflamed due to overuse, injury, or disease. Due to the high daily usage of our ankle tendons, they are some of the most common places to develop tendonitis. Presentation can be with swelling and limited range of motion of the ankle joint. A simple & effective solution for tendonitis due to overuse is to rest and ice the ankle joint. This should allow the inflamed tendon to heal. Ankle Sprains & Ligament Tears Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments, which connect bones to each other, overstretch or tear when forced into unnatural positions. The severity of ankle sprains can range from mild to severe. In most cases, a mild strain occurs when an ankle ligament gets overstretched and becomes tender, swollen. This can happen with a low velocity trauma like missing a step or a high velocity injury during a football game. However, signs that the ankle injury may be more than just a simple ankle sprain are: excessive pain, bruising and persistent swelling that does not settle within 3-5 days. In such a scenario, it is safer to consult a medical practitioner and perform further investigations like an X-ray, or a scan to exclude a bone injury, cartilage injury, ligament or tendon injuries of the ankle. In the more severe case of an ankle ligament tear, initial conservative treatment like ultrasound therapy, tendon strengthening and bracing can be tried. The usual time frame to heal a torn ligament is about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the ligament tear. Non-healing ligament tears and patients who persist to have a loose ankle may require surgical treatment. Fractures Ankle fractures in Singapore commonly happen when the ankle sustains a twisting trauma during intense sports, running on uneven surfaces, or falling from a height. If a fracture is suspected, an X-ray or CT scan can help determine the severity of the injury. Immediate and severe pain is the first symptom of ankle fractures, along with swelling, bruising, and tenderness. There can also be numbness and deformity in some cases. Tips For Treating And Preventing Ankle Injuries Using The RICE Method RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. It is a simple method of care for minor injuries that can reduce swelling, pain and speed up healing. RICE works best for mild pain or swelling in your ankle. It is best to ensure that there are no structural injuries to the ankle through some simple investigations with a specialist if the RICE method does not reduce the swelling. Maintain A Healthy Weight Increased weight puts more strain on all the different parts of the ankle and maintaining a healthy weight is ideal to prevent future injury. Strengthen Supporting Muscles There are simple exercises that can be practised at home to help strengthen your ankles and increase your range of motion. Doing so reduces the risk of ankle ligament tears as stronger, more flexible ankles are more resistant to getting hurt through normal usage. Pay attention to specific conditioning exercises that focus on ankle strengthening. Wear Supportive Footwear Certain kinds of supportive footwear have been found not only reduce the incidence of ankle injuries occurring, but can also help in the mechanics of the activities themselves. They help cushion the impact of running or walking and lower the likelihood of missteps twisting your ankle. Warming Up Properly conducted warm-up stretches that work and rotate the ankles prior to exercise may contribute to an overall lower risk of injuries occurring. The benefits of warming up include increasing blood flow to the feet and increasing flexibility and mobility in your joints. Visit An Orthopaedic Doctor If you have a mild ankle sprain then it’s perfectly fine to stay at home and rest by following the RICE methodology. Importantly, you should avoid putting too much weight on your feet until you have healed completely. However if your symptoms don’t show any improvements or if your foot is unable to bear any weight at all, then it’s best to visit an ankle specialist as soon as possible. Delaying the visit might aggravate the injury leading to more serious complications. If you lead an active lifestyle or play intense sports, then you’re likely to have experienced a minor ankle injury at some point. It’s important to keep in mind that without the right precautions, more serious injuries can occur which can severely impact your mobility and hinder your quality of life. At Specialist Orthopaedic Centre in Singapore, we offer a multitude of treatments and services for patients. Our tailored and personalised approach is aimed at increasing collaboration between doctor and patient and optimising recuperation. Get in touch with us via our Contact Us page to make an appointment or send us any queries you might have.

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Lower Limb Trauma: Common Causes & Treatment Methods

Orthopaedic trauma refers to an injury to the skeletal or muscular system involving the bones, joints or soft tissue, and is usually caused by an external force. If the external force is significant, it can lead to broken bones or torn ligaments. These are traumatic conditions that warrant further investigations and sometimes even surgical fixation or repair to regain full function again. Of the entire body, the upper and lower limbs are most susceptible to orthopaedic trauma due to their wide range of motion and the sheer frequency one uses them to complete daily tasks or participate in sports. In this article, we will be focusing on lower limb trauma, including the common causes and treatment methods to help you gain a deeper understanding. Read on to find out more. Common lower limb trauma 1.Ankle fracture An ankle fracture can occur in any of the three bones – the tibia, fibula and talus. It can also be categorised as non-displaced or displaced; the former refers to bones that are broken but still in the right position or alignment while the latter refers to portions of the bone that are separated or misaligned. In more severe cases, the ankle might appear deformed or bone might protrude out of the skin. 2.Kneecap fracture A kneecap fracture, also known as a patellar fracture, impacts the small bone that sits at the front of your knee. Since its main function is to act as a shield for your knee joint, suffering trauma to the area can make it hard to bend or straighten your knee, and even walk. There are also different types of kneecap fractures – a stable fracture refers to non-displaced bones, a displaced fracture refers to bones that do not line up correctly, and a comminuted fracture refers to bone that shatters into three or more pieces. One of the earliest signs of a kneecap fracture is the loss of extension or function of the knee. 3.Hip fracture Although hip fracture rates for men and women in Singapore are on the decline, it does not mean that you are no longer at risk. It is still a fairly common orthopaedic trauma condition and can be very painful. A hip fracture can cause injury to the femoral neck, intertrochanteric area, subtrochanteric area and femoral head. You will not be able to stand, bear weight or move the upper part of your leg or knee when a hip fracture occurs. The elderly with osteoporotic bone are more prone to hip fractures from low-energy trauma like simple falls, whereas younger patients who sustain a hip fracture tend to sustain high-energy trauma from a motor vehicle accident. 4.Tibia shaft fracture The tibia, more commonly known as the shinbone, is one of the most commonly fractured bones in the body. It occurs below the knee and above the ankle, and can fall under a few types of fractures – transverse fracture refers to a break in a straight horizontal line while an oblique/spiral fracture refers to an angulated fracture. Tibia shaft fractures are potentially unstable and these are usually treated surgically. Causes of lower limb trauma One of the most common causes of lower limb trauma is sports injury as a result of a collision with other players on the field and applying more force than the body can take. For instance, sports like football that require quick foot movements may make you more prone to suffering from an ankle fracture. However, something as simple as a fall or a bad ankle sprain can also result in lower limb trauma. People who have overused their joints may result in stress fractures appearing while older patients with osteoporosis may suffer a fracture from the weakening of their bones. Treatment methods for lower limb trauma You will be glad to know that not all fractures require surgical intervention – non-invasive treatments can sometimes be effective too. The treatment option depends on the nature and pattern of the fracture. Non-displaced fractures and paediatric fractures are generally treated non-surgically. For example, wearing a splint or cast helps to promote healing by keeping the injured part immobilised. Non-surgical treatments like this may require a period of immobilisation followed by serial x-rays to monitor fracture healing and eventually followed by rehabilitation. But for more serious cases such as displaced or comminuted fractures, surgery may be necessary. Your orthopaedic specialist may recommend surgical fixation of the fracture using titanium screws and plates. Surgical fixation restores the anatomy of the bone and alignment, keeping your ankle stable. Each type of orthopaedic trauma requires different treatment methods and they are dependent on your specific condition as well. Recovering from lower limb trauma Most lower limb fractures take six weeks to heal and you may still need further physical therapy to help you regain strength and full mobility. It is recommended to go for regular X-ray follow-ups, especially if your fracture is taking longer than usual to heal. Speak to an orthopaedic doctor today Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal is an experienced doctor in Singapore who subspecialises in foot and ankle surgery. He offers both non-invasive treatments as well as orthopaedic surgery options for patients of all ages and concerns. Get in touch with us to find out more!

Tag: Orthopaedic doctor Singapore