Going through orthopedic treatment is seriously no joke. Besides the risks involved, it can be really expensive, sometimes costing up to $150,000, and that’s not even counting the rehab and recovery expenses. Unfortunately, musculoskeletal problems aren’t something you can just ignore—they can be very persistent.
Ignoring treatment often makes these problems worse, potentially leading to disability. So, it’s really important to get treated right away if you have any of the following conditions:
**1. Fractures**
Fractures can happen to anyone at any age, caused by falls, accidents, or underlying medical conditions like osteoporosis. Without insurance, some people try to treat fractures at home. What they might not realize is that this can lead to severe complications, such as hypovolemic and septic shock, which can be fatal. So, it’s crucial to get professional help as soon as possible.
**2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)**
People who use their hands a lot might start feeling numbness in their fingers and pain in their wrists—these are symptoms of CTS. This happens when the median nerve in your wrist gets compressed. In severe cases, it can lead to paralysis. It’s essential to see a doctor right away because losing the function of your hands would significantly affect your daily life.
**3. Rotator Cuff Tear**
Common among athletes, a rotator cuff tear can sometimes be minor, but it can also end a sports career. The rotator cuff helps move your upper arms and shoulders, supported by four tendons. Too much pressure can cause these tendons, often the supraspinatus just below the acromion, to tear, leading to disability until it’s repaired.
**4. Plantar Fasciitis**
Runners often suffer from this, where the arch tendon of the foot gets overused. It usually happens once but can linger if associated with a degenerative disease. The plantar fascia runs from your heel bone to your toes and supports your body’s weight, making it prone to wear and tear.
**5. Back Strains and Pain**
Lifting heavy objects or moving after being inactive for a while can stretch your back muscles, especially in older adults. Conditions like a ruptured disc or spinal stenosis also cause back pain. Diagnostic tests and subsequent treatment are essential if your back pain persists because problems in your back muscles and bones can heavily impact the spinal cord, leading to severe issues.
You’ll find plenty of orthopedic specialists, so accessing their services isn’t an issue. But you should know what type of specialist you need—whether it’s pediatric, sports, reconstructive, etc., to avoid unnecessary consultations. If you’re unsure, ask for recommendations from other doctors or do some research online.