Many people associate things like knee surgery and an orthopedic surgeon with sports medicine. Although these kinds of surgeries do often go hand in hand with sports injuries, they aren’t limited to them. There are many ways in which we can injure our feet, legs, and backs — often we do so without even knowing it. If you’re dealing with pain already, it may be too late to avoid orthopedic surgery. But you should still know your options. On the other hand, if you’re physically healthy, you should begin researching how to keep yourself that way! It’s vital to know your body’s limits, even if you aren’t an athlete.
Foot Injuries: More Common Than You’d Think
When you really think about it, our feet endure a great deal of stress simply because they’re our feet. About four to six times your weight is carried upon your ankles when you climb stairs or walk up a deep incline. So it’s no wonder if you find yourself experiencing some foot pain. But then, there’s a difference between achy feet after a long day and actual injuries. It’s expected that 75% of Americans will experience varying degrees of foot problems over the course of their lifetimes. Although the severity of these issues ranges, you can do anything from spraining to breaking your ankle simply by taking a misplaced step. Even the footwear we choose has a major impact on the health of our feet. It’s no wonder than women have four times the amount of foot issues as men — high heels are very likely the culprit. Still, no matter what the sources of your foot problems are, you need to take them very seriously and get them looked at as soon as possible. Many find themselves having knee problems in connection with their foot problems, in part due to a lack of leg support. This could lead to something as serious as knee surgery down the road.
Chronic Pain: A Serious Problem
Did you know that over 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from chronic pain? It’s true. About 52.5 million Americans report being told by their doctor that they have a form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia. All of these conditions can have a serious impact on your quality of life. Although medications are the only answer for easing pain with some of these conditions, others can be aided by things like knee surgery or hip surgery. Surgery, although intimidating at first, sometimes offers permanent solution where other treatments simply ease symptoms. If you’re suffering from chronic pain you may want to ask your doctor about how surgery can help.
When To Consult An Orthopedist
Consulting your orthopedist is the sort of thing you should do if you’re questioning whether or not you should move forward with it. In other words, if you’re questioning whether or not you need to talk to an orthopedist, you absolutely should. Pain that doesn’t stop is a serious issue. Pain that recurs over several occasions is also concerns. Take note of things like back pain or knee pain — things that people often dismiss. Even if you know that your pain is not threatening your health, you don’t have to put up with it. Orthopedists can help with pain management as well.
Taking care of yourself means taking care of all your body. Your joints and bones are a part of that. Don’t take them for granted.
