Dr. Washif Rashid
MBBS, MS(Orthopaedics)

Common Orthopaedic Problems in Siliguri and Their Treatments

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)

πŸ‘‰ 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

πŸ”— 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

πŸ”— 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

πŸ”— 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.

πŸ“ž Need expert orthopaedic consultation? Book an appointment with Dr. Washif Rashid.