Foot and ankle specialist Singapore - Specialist Orthopaedic Centre

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Essential Nutrition for Bone and Muscle Health

Keeping our bones and muscles strong is essential for good health and mobility, particularly as we age or stay active. Recognising the important link between nutrition for bone health and leg strength can help us make better dietary choices that promote overall well-being. In this article, we'll explore the essential nutrients that significantly impact bone density and muscle function, highlighting how proper nutrition can enhance your leg health and support your body's needs. Calcium and Vitamin D Calcium and vitamin D are vital for promoting bone health. Calcium is a key mineral that strengthens bones, while vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium effectively. Without enough of these nutrients, bones can weaken, leading to issues like osteoporosis. To boost your calcium intake, include dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods in your diet. For vitamin D, aim for sun exposure and enjoy fatty fish or fortified cereals. Prioritising these nutrients can help support bone density and keep your legs strong. Protein for Muscle Maintenance Protein is vital for maintaining muscle mass, which is essential for strength and mobility. As we age, our bodies require adequate protein to prevent muscle loss, a condition known as sarcopenia. Incorporating high-quality protein sources like lean meats, eggs, dairy, legumes, and nuts into your meals can help keep your muscles functioning well and aid recovery after physical activities. This is especially important for those who are active or in rehabilitation. A balanced intake of protein can greatly enhance strength and support everyday movement. Micronutrients and Bone Density Micronutrients, like magnesium and vitamin K, are vital for bone density and leg health. Magnesium helps convert vitamin D into its active form, which is necessary for calcium absorption. To boost your nutrition for bone health, include magnesium-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and leafy greens in your diet. Meanwhile, vitamin K, found in green leafy vegetables and fermented foods, supports bone mineralisation and strength. Consulting with a foot and ankle specialist can provide additional insights into how these nutrients contribute to your overall health and mobility. Hydration and Joint Function Hydration is often overlooked but is essential for optimal joint function. Proper hydration helps lubricate your joints, reducing friction during movement and supporting overall leg function. When you’re dehydrated, you might experience joint stiffness and discomfort, which can make physical activity more challenging. It's important to drink enough water throughout the day, especially if you’re exercising intensely or living in a hot climate. Alongside balanced nutrition for bones and muscle, a well-hydrated body not only promotes joint health but also boosts your overall performance and mobility. Incorporating essential nutrients into your diet can have a significant impact on your bones and muscles. By prioritising calcium, vitamin D, protein, and micronutrients and staying well-hydrated, you can optimise your leg strength and overall mobility. Understanding the role of nutrition in bone and muscle health is crucial for everyone. If you’re looking for more guidance on maintaining a healthy system, visiting an orthopaedic clinic can provide valuable insights and support. Are you ready to take control of your well-being? At the Specialist Orthopaedic Centre, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal strength and mobility through personalised care and guidance. Whether you want to enhance your nutrition, manage existing conditions, or simply learn more about improving your overall well-being, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how our comprehensive range of services can help you live a healthier, more active life.

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When You Should Schedule A Visit To An Orthopaedic Doctor For Lower Limb Injuries

Whether you are an avid athlete or simply going about your daily routine, lower limb injuries can happen to anyone. From muscle sprains to ankle twists, these issues are not uncommon, especially among those engaged in high-impact activities or the elderly. While many minor injuries can heal with rest, there are instances when seeking professional help from an orthopaedic doctor becomes crucial. In this blog, we will explore the warning signs indicating that it is time to schedule a visit to a foot and ankle specialist in Singapore. 1. Severe Pain Or Popping Noises One of the clear indicators that your lower limb injury may be more serious than a minor sprain is experiencing severe pain or hearing popping noises at the time of the injury. These symptoms suggest potential ankle ligament tears, tendon ruptures, or fractures, which require evaluation by an orthopaedic doctor. Understanding the nature of the pain, its location, and any accompanying symptoms can aid in determining the extent of the injury and the appropriate treatment. Learn more: The Role Of An Orthopaedic Surgeon In Sports Injuries 2. Limited Range of Motion Limited range of motion in the context of lower limb injuries can manifest as difficulty bending or straightening the knee, ankle, or other joints. It is a key indicator that the injury may be more than a minor sprain – swelling, muscle tightness, ligament damage, or joint inflammation are common culprits. If you are experiencing limited range of motion after a lower limb injury, seek timely medical attention. A foot and ankle specialist can conduct a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to pinpoint the cause and recommend appropriate interventions. 3. Persistent Pain Unlike the typical discomfort associated with minor injuries, persistent pain lingers long after the initial incident, presenting a dull ache, sharp stabbing sensations, or throbbing pain. It can result from a range of factors, including underlying inflammation, nerve damage, or unresolved issues like an ankle ligament tear or fractures. Ignoring persistent pain can have significant consequences, potentially leading to prolonged discomfort, reduced mobility, and complications that may impact your overall well-being. Thus, timely intervention is key to addressing the root cause and preventing the escalation of the issue. 4. Chronic Joint Pain Chronic joint pain is characterised by long-lasting discomfort that extends well beyond the expected recovery period. It may stem from various causes, including persistent inflammation, untreated injuries, or conditions such as osteoarthritis and bunions. It is recommended to schedule a consultation with an orthopaedic doctor to explore specialised solutions and regain control over your comfort and mobility. Learn more: How Bunions Can Affect Your Overall Health & Quality Of Life Orthopaedic Solutions for a Pain-Free Tomorrow Do not let lower limb injuries compromise your daily activities or long-term well-being. Recognising the signs that warrant a visit to a foot and ankle specialist is the first step towards a swift recovery. Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal at the Specialist Orthopaedic Centre is committed to helping patients restore functionality and alleviate pain through a range of lower limb injury treatments, including bunion surgery. Get in touch with us to find out more.

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What You Need To Know About Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Surgery

When chronic joint instability due to an ankle ligament tear starts to hinder your daily life, ankle ligament reconstruction surgery could be the solution you are seeking. In this blog, we will delve into the key aspects of ankle ligament reconstruction, including who needs it, how it works, and what you can expect during the recovery process. Keep reading to find out more. Who Needs Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Surgery? The surgery is tailored for individuals who have experienced chronic ankle instability and pain due to torn or stretched ligaments. The following groups typically benefit from this procedure: Athletes and Sports Enthusiasts Ankle ligament reconstruction surgery can treat an ankle ligament tear sustained during sports, helping athletes and enthusiasts regain the stability they need to continue pursuing their passion while reducing the risk of future injuries. Patients Who Suffer from Frequent Ankle Sprains and Persistent Instability If you find yourself constantly spraining your ankle, leading to ongoing instability and discomfort, this procedure may offer the relief you are looking for. Ankle ligament reconstruction can address these issues when more conservative treatments have proven ineffective. Patients With Foot Deformities Foot deformities can contribute to unstable ankles, but individuals with the condition can still benefit from this surgery. In some cases, additional corrective procedures may be recommended by an ankle specialist to address underlying deformities and achieve long-term stability. How Does the Procedure Work? Before undergoing ankle ligament reconstruction, a thorough assessment is crucial. This involves physical examinations and imaging tests like MRI to determine the extent of ligament damage. If severe damage is detected, an ankle specialist will usually recommend arthroscopic keyhole surgery. Surgical Process Arthroscopy involves the use of a small, specialised camera which will be inserted through tiny incisions near the ankle joint. This allows the surgeon to have a clear view of the inside of the joint without the need for large incisions. Learn more: Benefits Of Ankle Arthroscopy Subsequently, a combination of arthroscopic and keyhole surgical techniques is employed to repair the damaged ligaments. During the procedure, scar tissue is carefully removed, and the torn ligaments are isolated. Using suture anchors, the torn ligaments are anatomically reattached, restoring stability to the ankle. After the ankle ligament tear is reconstructed, the tiny incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips. These small incisions result in minimal scarring and reduce the risk of infection. Recovery Time The duration of the procedure typically spans around one hour and is carried out under either general anaesthesia or regional block. Here is a breakdown of the recovery timeline which may differ from individual to individual, according to the severity of your ankle ligament tear: – 1st week: You may start trying to bear weight on the affected leg. – 2nd week: Crutches may still be necessary and partial weight-bearing can be initiated under the guidance of a physiotherapist. Physical therapy can commence, aiding in the restoration of your ankle’s strength and mobility. – 3rd month: High-impact activities should be approached cautiously and gradual reintegration is recommended to prevent re-injury. The overall recovery period varies depending on the extent of the surgery but typically ranges from 2 to 3 months. – 6th month: Return to competitive sports and pivot-intensive activities like squash, basketball, and football usually occur around the 6-month mark. Step into a Pain-Free Future At Specialist Orthopaedic Centre, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal, a foot and ankle specialist in Singapore, is committed to helping you regain stability and get back to the activities you love. If you are considering undergoing ankle ligament reconstruction surgery, consult our team to find out more.

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Understanding Bone Spurs And How To Treat Them

As you go about your daily life, bone spurs sometimes form, occurring near your joints in response to injury or persistent joint and ligament stress. These growths can gradually worsen, causing discomfort and restricting your mobility. Keep reading to find out what bone spurs are, their symptoms, locations, diagnosis, and treatment options to a clearer idea before seeing an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore.

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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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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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5 Tips For Choosing The Right Orthopaedic Surgeon

Proper orthopaedic treatments can empower life-changing improvements to pain and injuries, helping you to get back on your feet and regain your quality of life. However, making the decision to see an orthopaedic surgeon can be both a blessing and a cause of anxiety at the same time due to the myriad of clinics and treatment options available. If you are looking for an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore to explore the possibility of undergoing surgery or simply to seek an accurate diagnosis and conservative treatments, knowing how to pick the right doctor from the list is crucial. Here are some tips that will help you to make an informed decision – read on to find out more. 1. Ask for referrals Asking your friends, family, primary care doctor or healthcare professionals for referrals is one of the easiest ways to start your search for a dependable orthopaedic surgeon. Word-of-mouth recommendations by people you can trust are undoubtedly more reliable than a list of doctors you have found online, for instance. These people will be able to share more about their experience at the clinic, how the consultation went, and the treatment process with you to help you narrow down your choices. Even the simple feedback on clinic waiting time, front desk staff , appointment booking and post-surgical follow up care will shape your experience. 2. Research the surgeon’s credentials Just like how you would scour the internet to find as much information as possible before making a big purchase, the same should be done when it concerns your health. Hence, always research the orthopaedic surgeon’s credentials before making a decision. You want to be sure that the surgeon has the appropriate certifications and has no history of malpractice. The Singapore Medical Council website is a good platform to start with to ensure the surgeon you are considering is a registered specialist doctor, while the clinic’s website will offer valuable information about the surgeon’s credentials. Some specialists may claim to have had post basic training and it is important to research on these to ensure that the specialist has had the relevant hands-on sub-speciality fellowship training and not just an observership. 3. Consider the surgeon’s experience An orthopaedic surgeon who has been in practice for longer will be able to provide better advice and may even achieve more successful post-surgery results thanks to their years of experience. They will also be well respected by their peers with an extensive network of ancillary service providers like physiotherapists and insurance industry partners – which may make your patient journey smooth and pleasant. Certain surgeons also specialise in different areas of the musculoskeletal system – for example, if you require bunion surgery, visiting a foot and ankle specialist may be more beneficial for you. It is always advisable to choose a surgeon based on your current needs to receive optimal care and fulfil your desired outcome. 4. Read reviews While word-of-mouth recommendations are oftentimes more trustworthy than online reviews, the latter is still able to provide some insight into what you can expect from the clinic and orthopaedic surgeon. Take a look at reviews left on the clinic’s social media platforms and Google to have a clearer idea of what the overall experience is in terms of the doctors bedside manners, professionalism, surgical outcomes. It is important to note that these reviews are unsolicited and a clinic or its specialist may get both a good or a bad review – both of which are equally important in choosing a specialist. These factors play a part in shaping your treatment experience and should not be overlooked. 5. Check for insurance coverage Lastly, remember to check if the orthopaedic surgeon you have chosen is on the list of panel doctors your insurance covers. Different insurance providers have varying lists of panel doctors, so it is essential to ensure you are covered by the insurance before making an appointment. Most clinics can help to check on your coverage if you provide your insurance details over the phone or email. If that particular provider clinic is on an extensive panel of corporate and personal insurance panels, it means that the clinic is a trusted partner of the insurers with an excellent track record with the payers. The insurances generally have a strict criteria for empanelling doctors which includes parameters like charges, surgical outcomes and patient feedback. When in doubt, simply make a call to the clinic and the staff should be able to advise you. Make an appointment with Specialist Orthopaedic Centre today If you are looking for an experienced and trusted orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore, consider making an appointment with Specialist Orthopaedic Centre. Our resident doctor, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal, is a recognised surgeon in multiple insurance panels with a 5-star Google rating. Let him help you to relieve pain and get back to enjoying what you love today! Contact us to find out more!

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Tips For Preventing & Treating Orthopaedic Injuries In Sports

Acute orthopaedic injuries sustained while playing sports are very common. Although some are unavoidable as they can happen as a result of sudden accidents, there are still some things you can do to minimise such occurrences. In this article, we will be sharing more about the tips for preventing and treating orthopaedic injuries in sports. Read on to find out more. Preventing orthopaedic injuries in sports Always warm up and stretch Warming up and completing simple stretches before you exercise or participate in sports can help to prevent an orthopaedic injury. This indispensable step prepares your body for more strenuous activity by increasing your flexibility, promoting blood and oxygen circulation, reducing muscle tension, and giving you a wider range of motion. Wear the right gear It is important to wear the right gear before participating in any kind of sports, especially in contact sports like basketball and football where the chances of colliding with another player and sustaining an injury are higher. For instance, ankle guards or braces are some examples of gear recommended by foot and ankle specialists to reduce the blow in the event of an accident. Take breaks when needed It is advisable to take breaks whenever it is needed to prevent pushing your body past its limits which will only do more harm than good. Having adequate rest in between exercises or games will allow your muscles time to regain strength and your body to recover from fatigue. Performing activities and sports when your body feels ready may be helpful in avoiding orthopaedic injuries. Do not play through the pain Never ignore dull aches and continue playing sports through the pain just because they do not seem like a big deal. In fact, you would most probably have sustained a minor injury which can exacerbate if you continue straining it. It is recommended that you utilise the RICE method – Rest the injured limb, Ice the affected area, Compress with an elastic wrap or bandage, and Elevate the injured limb to prevent swelling. Remember to seek treatment at an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore early to prevent your condition from worsening. Treating orthopaedic injuries in sports Know the common orthopaedic injuries in sports Understanding the common orthopaedic injuries that can occur while playing sports will be useful in helping you to ascertain the next steps to take. Some common acute orthopaedic injuries include a sprained ankle, ACL tear, rotator cuff tear, meniscus tear, tennis elbow and stress fracture. The non-surgical and surgical treatment methods for these injuries differ, hence, it is always recommended to seek professional medical advice by visiting an orthopaedic clinic. Non-surgical treatments range from physiotherapy to injections while surgical treatments can involve keyhole procedures. Look out for signs and symptoms One of the tell-tale signs that you have sustained an orthopaedic injury is feeling pain in the affected area. Other symptoms include swelling, tenderness, bruising, numbness, bone deformity and a limited range of motion. In more severe cases, patients may not be able to bear weight on the affected limb too, especially if a dislocation or fracture has occurred. Seek prompt treatment Instead of heading to the ER and waiting hours before someone attends to you, consider visiting a specialist orthopaedic clinic instead. Same-day appointments are usually permitted for urgent cases so that patients do not have to wait longer than needed to seek treatment. This also means getting an accurate diagnosis for your condition and receiving prompt treatment, regardless of whether it is non-surgical or surgical. Simple investigations that the orthopaedic specialist will perform include x-rays or an MRI scan which can be arranged on the same day. Keep in mind that early treatment goes a long way in helping you to regain your quality of life. Understand the treatments available Some non-surgical treatment methods may help to relieve symptoms if your injury is mild. They include taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and doing physical therapy exercises to strengthen your muscles and help you regain a full range of motion. Alternatively, an easy way to relieve symptoms in the comfort of your own home is the RICE method – rest, ice, compress and elevate. If your symptoms do not improve, it is recommended to seek treatment at an orthopaedic clinic. The orthopaedic surgeon may suggest surgery if conservative treatments prove to be ineffective. The type of surgery depends on the injury sustained and the severity of your condition too. It is advisable to seek prompt medical attention the moment you suspect you are suffering from an orthopaedic injury. This is crucial in helping to relieve symptoms and for you to bounce back to form, especially if you are an athlete, as soon as possible. Get in touch with us today!

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