Spine
Q1. Why do I often get back pain?
Back pain can result from poor posture, weak muscles, or disc problems. If it lasts beyond a week or radiates to your legs, seek medical help.
Q2. What is a slipped disc?
It occurs when the soft disc between the vertebrae bulges or ruptures, pressing on nerves and causing pain or numbness.
Q3. When should I worry about neck pain?
If neck pain spreads to your arms or is linked with tingling, weakness, or balance issues, it needs medical attention.
Q4. Can lifestyle changes help prevent spine problems?
Yes. Regular exercise, proper posture, and avoiding long sitting hours help protect the spine.
Q5. What is sciatica?
Sciatica is nerve pain running from the lower back to the leg, usually due to disc herniation or nerve compression.
Q6. Does every back problem need surgery?
No. Most cases improve with rest, exercises, and medications. Surgery is needed only in severe or persistent cases.
Q7. Are spinal problems age-related only?
No. While common in older adults, young people can also develop disc and posture-related spine issues.
Joint Replacement
Q1. When is knee replacement needed?
When arthritis makes daily activities like walking or climbing stairs very painful and medicines stop helping.
Q2. Is joint replacement a permanent cure?
Modern implants last 15–20 years or more, but they may eventually need revision.
Q3. What activities are possible after joint replacement?
Walking, climbing stairs, and light sports are usually possible. High-impact activities are not advised.
Q4. Is hip replacement safe for elderly patients?
Yes, with proper evaluation, it restores mobility and improves quality of life even in elderly patients.
Q5. How long does it take to recover after knee replacement?
Most people walk within days and improve steadily over 6–12 weeks with physiotherapy.
Q6. Will I be pain-free after joint replacement?
Yes, in most cases patients experience dramatic relief from pain and regain independence.
Q7. Are there alternatives to joint replacement?
Yes. Medicines, injections, braces, and physiotherapy help in early stages, but surgery is often the best option in advanced cases.
Fractures
Q1. How do I know if a fracture needs surgery?
If the bone is displaced, involves a joint, or cannot heal properly in a plaster, surgery may be required.
Q2. Can a fracture heal without plaster or surgery?
Some stable fractures heal naturally with rest and support, but evaluation is necessary.
Q3. Do fractures heal faster in children?
Yes, children’s bones heal quicker, but alignment is crucial to avoid long-term issues.
Q4. What is the risk of ignoring a small fracture?
It can heal wrongly, cause deformity, arthritis, or long-term pain.
Q5. How long does it take for a fracture to heal?
Generally 6–12 weeks, but depends on age, bone, and health condition.
Q6. Why are hip fractures serious in elderly?
They reduce mobility and can affect overall health if not treated promptly.
Q7. What is a stress fracture?
It’s a small crack in the bone due to overuse, common in athletes.
Hand & Foot
Q1. Why does my wrist hurt after long typing hours?
It may be carpal tunnel syndrome or tendon strain. Persistent pain needs medical review.
Q2. What causes heel pain in the morning?
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause. If pain continues, other causes like stress fracture should be ruled out.
Q3. Why do my fingers sometimes lock suddenly?
This is “trigger finger,” caused by tendon irritation. It often requires treatment.
Q4. Can bunions be treated without surgery?
In early stages, footwear changes and splints may help. Advanced cases often need surgery.
Q5. Why do my ankles swell often?
Swelling may be due to injury, arthritis, or circulation problems. Persistent swelling needs a check-up.
Q6. Is flat foot a problem?
Many people live normally with flat feet, but if it causes pain or difficulty in walking, treatment may be required.
Q7. Why do I feel numbness in my toes?
This may be due to nerve compression, diabetes, or circulation issues. Needs medical evaluation.
Pediatric Orthopaedics
Q1. My child’s leg looks bowed. Is it normal?
Mild bowing is normal till age 2–3. Worsening deformity or limping needs medical advice.
Q2. What are growing pains?
They are harmless leg pains in children, usually at night, but persistent pain should be checked.
Q3. Can children get arthritis?
Yes, juvenile arthritis can affect children, causing swelling and stiffness.
Q4. How do I know if my child’s fracture will heal straight?
Children’s bones remodel well, but growth plate injuries need careful management.
Q5. Should I worry if my child walks late?
A small delay is often normal, but consistent delay may suggest underlying issues.
Q6. What should I do if my child refuses to bear weight after a fall?
Get an X-ray done, even if swelling looks minor, as fractures in children can be subtle.
Q7. Why does my child limp without pain?
It may be due to hip problems like “slipped epiphysis” or developmental conditions. Needs urgent evaluation.
👉 Tip for readers: These FAQs are for quick reference only. If your pain persists, worsens, or affects daily activity, consult an orthopaedic specialist immediately.