Orthopaedics
Orthopaedics is a surgical specialty that focuses on diagnosing
and treating a range of problems involving the musculoskeletal
system. The musculoskeletal system includes your bones,
joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.
Orthopaedics cares for people of all ages, from new-borns with
congenital conditions to older people with arthritis.
Orthopaedics also covers trauma for example, a motor vehicle
accident, a fall, or a tackle during a rugby game; these can all
result in an injury, or a fracture (broken bone).
The most common orthopaedic conditions treated by orthopaedic
surgeons are:
- Severe osteoarthritis - joint replacement, where an arthritic
or damaged joint is replaced with an artificial joint called a
prosthesis.
- Fractures - broken bones.
- Torn or inflamed muscles, tendons and cartilage.
- Disorders of the spine.
- Trapped nerves.
Congenital and childhood bone disorders.
The treatment of orthopaedic problems may involve either surgery
or non-surgical treatment. The orthopaedic surgeon will
discuss your diagnosis and treatment plan with you. A
rehabilitation plan may be recommended, including exercises or
physical therapy to restore movement, strength and function.
Information regarding the waiting times for our Orthopaedic
service can be obtained by selecting this link Waiting Times.
