An orthopedic surgery is any operation performed on the musculoskeletal system. 

This system is comprised of your bones, muscles, ligaments, joints and tendons. There are three different types of orthopedic surgery. 

Traditional procedures are now competing with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries that tout less pain and quicker recovery times.

Let’s take a look at the most commonly performed orthopedic procedures.

• Joint Replacement Procedures. These procedures replace an injured joint with a prosthetic and are among the most common orthopedic operations. Common joint replacement surgeries include hip and knee replacement surgeries. It is important that patients are monitored for signs of complications after these procedures because the procedures carry a considerable amount of risk. Among these risks are the chances that the implant will fail or that the materials making up the implant will make their way into the blood, causing a toxic condition known as metalosis.
• Revision Joint Surgery. If an existing implant has failed, it may be necessary to remove it and implant a new one. Revision surgeries are often required when the patient received a defective implant or an older implant has failed.
• Debridement. Whenever tissue death has occurred and the affected tissue needs to be removed before healing can occur, a debridement procedure is how doctors will remove it. There are some cases where bone is also removed when necessary.
• Spinal Fusion. Spinal fusions join the vertebrae together to provide more stability to the spine or to repair damage to the spine. For more information on spinal surgery, look here.
• Bone Fusion. Like spinal fusions, bone fusions use grafting to fuse fractured bones together so that they can heal.
• Soft tissue repair. These procedures focus on torn ligaments or tendons.
• Internal Fixation of Bones. This type of surgery places fragments of bones together and keeps them in place using pins, screws or plates so that they can heal. In some cases, the devices will remain inside of the body.
• Osteotomy. If a child has bone deformities, he or she will need this type of operation to help correct the deformity so that the bone grows properly.

Common Areas of the Body Requiring Orthopedic Surgery

Here are the most common body areas where orthopedic surgery may be performed.

• Wrists. The most common wrist surgeries are for the release of carpal tunnel or the fracture of the distal radius.
• Ankles. Fractures of the ankle are common sports injuries. They are also common workplace injuries on sites where workers can fall from considerable heights or are exposed to trip hazards.
• Hips. The most common hip procedures are the repair of the femoral neck, a trochanteric fracture or the replacement of the hip joint with a prosthetic.
• Spine. The most common spinal operations are laminectomies, spinal fusions and intervertebral disc operations.
• Shoulders. Arthroscopic surgery can be effective to repair the rotator cuff, decompress the shoulder or excise the distal clavicle. For more information on shoulder injuries, look here.
• Knees. Procedures to repair the MCL and ACL are among the most common knee procedures. Also common is the total replacement of the knee.

Traditional vs. Arthroscopic Procedures

Most orthopedic surgeries are either performed traditionally or through the use of an arthroscope. 

There are some occasions where open surgery is needed, but the majority fall into these two categories. 

Traditional surgery is more invasive and often comes with considerably longer recovery times compared to arthroscopic procedures as incisions are made to parts of the body involved.

While arthroscopic procedures are marketed as less invasive, you need to understand that they are not without risk. It is still possible to experience complications, including infection of the surgical site and surgical errors.

we have listed some simple orthopedic care tips:

• 1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or underweight can worsen orthopedic conditions. If you have an eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia or if you follow a very low-calorie or restrictive diet, you may face difficulty in physical movement.

Unhealthy body weight affects the musculoskeletal system. It severely affects muscles, bones, nerves, joints, ligaments, tendons and other connective tissues. Hence, ensure you maintain a healthy weight, especially if you are suffering from other physical disorders as well.

• 2. Keep Moving

Stay active and keep moving your body. Get up, take a walk and get some fresh air. You can also stretch your hands, wrist, shoulders and legs every now and then. It will not only increase the blood circulation in your body, but will also prevent cramps, swellings and bodyaches. Moreover, it will lift your mood and make you feel more energetic and lively.

• 3. Do Your Exercise

Ensure you do 30 minutes of exercise daily. According to health experts, activities like running, brisk walking, cycling and swimming, etc, improve the musculoskeletal system. It helps you balance your body weight and prevents muscle and joint injuries.

You can also practice yoga daily. Yoga soothes the nervous system, strengthens the ligaments and tendons, gives strength to the joints, and helps the spine and legs remain firm.

• 4. Take Your Vitamins

Follow a healthy diet plan, so that you get all the nutrients and vitamins required. Start your day with a nutritious breakfast to provide the body with the energy it needs to function throughout the day.

Spend enough time in the sun daily. A small amount of sunlight during the day can help you

increase vitamin D levels naturally. Vitamin D is good for orthopedic conditions. It not only absorbs calcium, but also plays a vital role in the functioning of the immune system.

You can also take various vitamin supplements to balance the vitamin level in your blood. You will find a great selection of vitamin supplements at the local store as well as online. However, ensure you use it as per your doctor’s or dietician’s advice.

• 5. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Invest in comfy shoes that fit you well – because comfort is much more important now than looking stylish. Opt for footwear that are light and breathable and make your movement as natural as possible. Shoes that support your weight and structure will help you maintain alignment. Ageing women, similarly, should start avoiding the use of high heels on a regular basis, as it increases the risk of developing chronic back and knee pains.

• 6. Avoid Alcohol & Junk Food

The consumption of alcohol tends to deteriorate orthopedic health. Fast food items like burgers, pizza, french fries, samosa, etc, should be avoided, as they contain fats that can stimulate inflammation. Likewise, it is a good idea to stay away from salty foods. Too much salt can cause joint swelling, which is again bad for orthopedic patients.

• 7. Get Regular Check-ups

Get your health checkups done regularly. It will make you aware of your overall medical condition. Moreover, early diagnosis will pave the way for better and effective treatment, with less chances of chronic pain and need for medication.

In winter, blood circulation is not adequate as compared to other climates. So, bone and joint pains become more common, as the mercury dips. However, one should also remember that orthopedic problems don’t just appear suddenly. Instead, they slowly develop over time as you age. The secret to living a healthy life isn’t some miraculous activity or treatment. It’s all about taking those small preventive measures and altering your lifestyle as per the changing needs and conditions of your body.