You might need to visit an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore if you experience persistent joint or muscle pain, difficulty moving a joint, or swelling that doesn’t improve. Sports injuries like ligament tears or sprains may also prompt your GP to refer you to an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore.
Similarly, chronic conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and lower back pain may also warrant a visit to an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore. But, what questions do they ask? And why do they ask those questions? Stay on this page to find out!
What Is the Common Investigation in Orthopaedics?
Orthopaedic doctors use a variety of diagnostic tests to evaluate musculoskeletal conditions. These tests help identify the cause of pain or dysfunction to allow for precise treatment.
One of the most common tests you can expect when visiting an orthopaedic doctor in Singapore is the bone densitometry, or DEXA scan. This test measures bone density and is commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk.
The other very common test is the skeletal scintigraphy, or bone scan. This specialized test can detect abnormalities in bone metabolism.
It helps identify stress fractures, infections, or cancer that has spread to the bones. Depending on the reason for your appointment or the symptoms you’re showing, your orthopaedic doctor may also recommend a test known as discography.
This test evaluates the health of intervertebral discs in the spine and is used to diagnose conditions like degenerative disc disease or herniated discs. If you’re showing symptoms that may suggest spinal cord issues, you may be recommended myelography.
This test involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal to evaluate spinal cord or nerve root issues. It’s often used alongside CT scans for detailed imaging. There is also electromyography which measures electrical activity in muscles.
It helps diagnose nerve disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or radiculopathy. It is also worth mentioning that most orthopaedic tests rely on advanced imaging techniques like X-rays, MRI, ultrasound, and CT scans.
X-rays are excellent for detecting fractures and joint abnormalities. MRI and ultrasound provide detailed images of soft tissues like muscles and ligaments, while CT scans offer cross-sectional views of bones and joints. Thanks to these diagnostic tools, orthopaedic doctors can identify problems accurately and recommend effective treatments.
What Questions Do Orthopaedic Doctors Ask?
When you visit an orthopaedic doctor, they will ask detailed questions to understand your condition better. These questions help them pinpoint the problem and develop a tailored treatment plan.
That means that to be able to make the most out of the appointment, you will want to know how to best answer the questions by your orthopaedic doctor in Singapore. Real quick, here’s a summary of the most common topics orthopaedic doctors ask about;
- Pain Location: The first question an orthopaedic doctor may ask is, “Where exactly does it hurt?” Identifying the pain’s location helps the doctor focus on the affected area. For example, pain in the knee could indicate arthritis, while shoulder pain might suggest a rotator cuff injury.
- Pain Onset: “When did the pain first begin?” is another crucial question. Having a clear understanding of the timeline of your pain can provide clues about its cause. Acute pain may result from an injury, while chronic pain could indicate a long-term condition like arthritis or tendonitis.
- Pain Triggers: Doctors will ask, “What activities make the pain worse?” Identifying triggers helps determine the underlying issue. For instance, pain that worsens with walking might suggest a hip or knee problem, while pain during overhead movements could point to a shoulder issue.
- Pain Severity: Orthopaedic doctors often ask, “On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your pain?” This helps them assess the severity of your condition. Mild pain may require conservative treatment, while severe pain might need more aggressive intervention.
- Previous Injuries: “Have you had any previous injuries to this area?” A knowledgeable orthopaedic doctor in Singapore will also want to know about your injury history. This is essential because a prior injury could weaken the affected area and make it more susceptible to further damage.
- Family History: The doctor may inquire, “Does anyone in your family have joint problems?” Certain conditions, like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can run in families. A family history of joint issues increases your risk and a good orthopaedic doctor in Singapore will want to know about this before recommending any treatment or therapy.
- Medication Use: “Are you currently taking any medications for pain relief?” is another common question. This helps the doctor understand how you’ve been managing your pain. It also helps them tell for sure whether the current treatment is effective.
- Range of Motion: For this topic the doctor may ask; “do you have any limitations in moving the affected joint?” Restricted movement can indicate structural issues or inflammation. For example, difficulty bending the knee might suggest ligament damage or arthritis.
- Impact on Daily Life: “How does the pain affect your daily activities?” Understanding the impact of your condition on everyday life helps the doctor gauge its severity. For instance, difficulty climbing stairs or carrying objects can indicate significant joint or muscle problems.
Orthopaedic doctors often tailor their questions to the specific joint or area of concern. For example:
- Knee Pain: “Do you experience pain while climbing stairs or squatting?”
- Shoulder Pain: “Does the pain worsen when lifting objects or reaching overhead?”
- Hip Pain: “Do you feel pain when walking or getting out of a chair?”
- Hand or Wrist Pain: “Do you have trouble gripping objects or typing?”
These targeted questions help narrow down potential diagnoses and guide treatment decisions.
The Bottom Line
It doesn’t matter whether it’s joint pain, a sports injury, or a chronic condition. The expertise of a knowledgeable orthopaedic doctor in Singapore can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
That said, if you’re experiencing pain or mobility issues, don’t hesitate to consult an orthopaedic doctor for professional care. If you’re in Singapore and looking to meet an experienced orthopaedic doctor who will pay attention to your concerns for the best outcomes, call or visit us at;
Cove Orthopaedic Clinic @ Mount Elizabeth Orchard – Orthopaedic Surgeon Singapore
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-13 Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
https://www.coveorthopaedics.com.sg/
+65 9631 7637