How long have you been toughing it out? Unlike emergency or persistent organ-related health concerns, addressing problems with your joints, bones, or muscles can often get put on the back burner. But many issues related to the musculoskeletal system can actually be aggravated by delaying treatment, so it’s important to see an orthopedic surgeon when specific signs and symptoms start to show themselves.
Some musculoskeletal problems resolve on their own. Home care, like ice, heat, stretches, and other methods, can sometimes do wonders for a sore muscle or a stiff joint. But there are many other cases where home remedies simply won’t do enough to address the problem, and it’s crucial to get professional help. How do you know when it’s time to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon?
These common warning signs should not be ignored.
Whether it’s due to a memorable injury or simple wear and tear on your body that finally passed a threshold, lengthy bouts with pain could be a sign that something serious is going on. Joint pain or pain in a single or group of muscles that lasts for weeks should be addressed with a professional to solve the problem and restore a better quality of life.
This is another red-flag symptom. An area that is swollen or inflamed, with or without pain, may be a sign that an underlying issue needs to be addressed. Some swelling after minor injuries or even standard activity is quite common, but can usually be treated very effectively at home with ice and over-the-counter meds and perhaps some time off the court or away from the gym. But inflammation or swelling that doesn’t go away with home care is cause for concern.
This is one that may especially get that appointment pushed down the to-do list. Sometimes we don’t feel as flexible as we used to, and that’s normal. But ongoing limited motion, even without other concerns like pain or swelling, may mean there is a bigger problem than just the need for more regular stretching.
Even as we age or if we’ve put on a few pounds, our joints should still be able to smoothly bear weight. Particularly if you are an active person, a feeling of instability in the knees, shoulders, or hips shouldn’t be overlooked. That sensation of “giving out” could mean anything from arthritis to a meniscus tear to a dislocation and might need urgent treatment before it gets worse.
A numb or tingling sensation in the hands, feet, arms, or legs could be a sign of more than just an orthopedic issue, so it’s important to speak to your doctor if you’re having this type of symptom. Once systemic issues are ruled out, an orthopedic surgeon could address causes like nerve injuries or carpal tunnel and work to restore normal sensation and functioning.
Ultimately, if a problem with your body that involves a joint, muscles, bone, or other part of the musculoskeletal system, such as a tendon or ligament, is disrupting your everyday life, it’s likely time to contact an orthopedic surgeon. Work tasks, home responsibilities, or athletic activity that might have become problematic can be smooth sailing again with the right treatment.
With modern surgical options as well as many non-surgical choices for treatment, there is a range of possibilities available to help reduce pain and restore your quality of life. A qualified and experienced orthopedic surgeon can offer solutions that may include:
One of the key strategies for achieving optimal results with orthopedic treatment is early diagnosis. This can make all the difference when it comes to using the most minimally invasive treatments and finding relief. Treating joints, muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons is often a delicate and complex process, so sooner is better when it comes to tackling problems.
With the specialized care provided by a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, patients are able to get back to moving and back to life. Book your consultation today with premier Torrance orthopedic surgeon Dr. Chris Mellano.
Dr. Mellano’s mission is to give his patients the freedom to keep doing the activities they love. If you are struggling with joint pain, arthritis, lack of mobility, or joint inflammation, contact Dr. Mellano for a consultation so he can help you get moving again.
