Siliguri, a bustling city in North Bengal, has seen a rise in orthopaedic issues due to lifestyle changes, increasing road accidents, and aging populations. People of all ages are experiencing joint pain, back pain, fractures, and other musculoskeletal problems. In this article, we will discuss common orthopaedic problems in Siliguri and their available treatments.
1. Osteoarthritis
Causes:
- Aging
- Obesity
- Previous joint injuries
- Genetic factors
Symptoms:
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling and tenderness in joints
- Pain that worsens with activity
Treatment:
- Non-surgical: Medications, physiotherapy, weight management
- Surgical: Joint replacement surgery (knee or hip replacement)
👉 Learn more about joint replacement surgery
2. Lower Back Pain
Causes:
- Poor posture
- Prolonged sitting
- Herniated discs
- Spinal injuries
Symptoms:
- Dull or sharp pain in the lower back
- Pain radiating to the legs
- Difficulty standing or bending
Treatment:
- Conservative treatments: Pain relievers, lifestyle modifications, and posture correction
- Advanced treatments: Physiotherapy, spinal injections, or surgery in severe cases
🔗 Read: Tips for Managing Lower Back Pain
3. Frozen Shoulder
Causes:
- Diabetes
- Prolonged immobility
- Rotator cuff injuries
Symptoms:
- Limited shoulder movement
- Pain while lifting the arm
- Stiffness that worsens over time
Treatment:
- Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Surgery: Arthroscopic release in severe cases
4. Fractures and Bone Injuries
Causes:
- Road accidents
- Falls
- Sports injuries
Symptoms:
- Intense pain
- Swelling and bruising
- Deformity of the injured area
Treatment:
- Casting and splinting: For minor fractures
- Surgery: Plates, screws, or rods for complex fractures
- Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy to restore function
🔗 Read: Fracture Management by Dr. Washif Rashid
5. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Causes:
- Repetitive hand movements (typing, knitting, etc.)
- Wrist injuries
- Diabetes and hypothyroidism
Symptoms:
- Tingling and numbness in fingers
- Weak grip strength
- Wrist pain, especially at night
Treatment:
- Non-surgical: Wrist splints, physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory medications
- Surgical: Carpal tunnel release surgery in severe cases
6. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Causes:
- Overuse of forearm muscles
- Repetitive wrist and arm motions
Symptoms:
- Pain around the outer elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Discomfort while lifting objects
Treatment:
- Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises
- Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Injection therapy: Steroid or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections
7. Sciatica
Causes:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Piriformis syndrome
Symptoms:
- Sharp pain radiating from the lower back to the legs
- Numbness and tingling
- Weakness in the leg muscles
Treatment:
- Non-surgical: Pain medications, physiotherapy, and stretching exercises
- Surgical: Microdiscectomy or laminectomy for severe cases
🔗 Read: Sciatica Pain Relief Methods
How to Prevent Orthopaedic Issues?
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- Exercise regularly to keep bones and muscles strong
- Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing
- Use ergonomic furniture to support your back and wrists
- Wear proper footwear to prevent foot and knee problems
Conclusion
Orthopaedic problems are becoming increasingly common in Siliguri due to sedentary lifestyles, poor posture, and rising accident rates. However, with timely diagnosis and proper treatment, these conditions can be effectively managed. If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, back pain, or any musculoskeletal issues, consult an orthopaedic specialist for the best treatment options.
📞 Need expert orthopaedic consultation? Book an appointment with Dr. Washif Rashid.