Dr. Klassen is one of California’s leading orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists. He has dedicated his career to helping patients regain mobility, find long-lasting relief from their injuries, and gain confidence in their bodies. His nearly 30-years of expertise ensures that each patient receives the highest quality of care and the best possible outcome.
Dr. Michael Klassen MD, President of the California Orthopedic Association, has treated a wide range of injuries and describes five of the most common orthopedic injuries.
1. Dislocations
By far one of the most common and most treatable orthopedic injuries is dislocations. When treated early, most dislocations can be reset and healed without any major issues. A dislocation occurs, as the name suggests, when the bone is displaced from its normal joint location. Common dislocations include:
- Shoulder
- Elbow
- Knee
- Anke
Dr. Klassen recommends using conservative treatment methods for dislocations before turning to surgery. Some methods include:
- RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Relocation of bone (manipulation)
While most dislocations won’t lead to longer-term injuries, some damage to the surrounding nerves and tissues might result due to dislocations. It’s best to get the area examined as soon as possible to prevent any further complications.
2. Muscle Sprains and Strains
Another common type of injury is sprains and strains. These injuries usually occur when the body is overused or overstretched. Muscles and ligaments can become strained and/or sprained, leading to inflammation and pain.
It’s important to understand the difference between a muscle strain and a sprain. A strain is an injury to the tissue that connects bone to bone, also known as the ligaments, while a sprain is an injury to the tissue that connects muscle to bone, also known as the tendons.
In either case, treatment includes RICE, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication. Dr. Klassen also recommends wearing a brace or supporting the area during recovery to prevent more severe injuries.
In addition, it’s vital to refrain from any exercise or activity that could aggravate the injury until it is healed. Dr. Klassen emphasizes the importance of stretching and proper warm up before any physical activity to prevent future injuries, as well as completing any rounds of physical therapy and exercise before returning to your regular activity.
3. Fractures
Fractures are also quite common orthopedic injuries, and can occur in any bone in the body. Fractures are especially common in the extremities due to their constant use. Falls, direct blows, and twisting the body in an unnatural position are all common causes of fractures.
Some of the most common types of fractures include:
- Stress fractures: A thin crack in a bone due to repetitive stress
- Compression fractures: Occur when a bone is compressed, usually in the lower spine and other vertebrae
- Osteoporotic fractures: Occur due to weakened bones in older adults, and can happen from something as minor as a fall
Treatment usually involves immobilization of the fracture with a cast or splint, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. In more serious cases, surgery may be necessary.
During surgery, pins, plates, and screws will be used to set the bones back in place. However, it’s important to note that recovery time for fractures can differ greatly depending on the severity of the fracture and type of treatment received.
4. Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, usually caused by overuse or repetitive motion. For instance, baseball players that constantly throw pitches are prone to developing tendonitis in their pitching arm. Other common areas where you might notice tendonitis are:
- Elbow
- Shoulder
- Knee
The treatments for tendonitis include ice, rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy. Surgery may be an option for more severe cases where the tendon must be repaired manually. However, even with treatment, it’s important to remember that it can take weeks and sometimes months before the inflammation decreases and the pain subsides. In addition, tendonitis, unfortunately, can reoccur in people with arthritis. Therefore, it’s vital to follow up with your doctor and physical therapist to avoid future flare-ups.
5. Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears are also incredibly common, affecting between two to four million Americans every year. The rotator cuff is a major part of the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing movement. Unfortunately, tears can occur due to a number of reasons such as direct impact or fall, overuse of the shoulder joint, or age-related wear and tear.
Symptoms include decreased range of motion in the shoulder joint, difficulty lifting objects, arm weakness, and pain when sleeping on the affected side. Treatment for rotator cuff tears can range from immobilization, physical therapy, and medication to surgery in more severe cases. It’s crucial to visit your doctor if you believe your rotator cuff is injured, and to get proper follow-up care.
Find The Help You Need With Dr. Klassen
Dr. Klassen has been a trusted orthopedic care provider in California since 1995, and will help you find the best treatment plan for your orthopedic injury. He provides a comprehensive evaluation, and develops a customized treatment plan tailored to fit your needs, and get you back on the road to mobility.
For more information on Dr. Michael Klassen MD, you can visit his website at https://www.michaelklassenmd.com/
