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FAQ [ Frequently Asked Questions]
Can x-rays be done in your practice?
There is an X-ray department in the hospital : X rays, CT, Ultrasound & MRI. For X rays a booking is not usually required, whilst for other procedures, appointments can be booked at the time of your consultation.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is caused by cartilage damage. Cartilage is the tough elastic material that covers and protects the ends of bones. Over time the cartilage may wear away entirely, and the bones will rub together. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint but usually affects hips, knees, hands and spine.
Will physiotherapy be required after surgery?
A full range of motion, strength and flexibility after surgery takes months. Physiotherapy maximises your recovery after surgery. Physio is the most important determinants in the success of surgery.
What should I bring with me when I come for an appointment?
Have your insurance information. Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs, CT scans . If you have seen a physiotherapist, please bring a progress letter If you have had surgery elsewhere, please bring a copy of operation report
When is a hip replacement necessary?
A hip replacement is necessary to prevent pain and increase mobility. The most common cause of hip replacements is osteoarthritis Other indications are: rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, bone tumours or a fracture of the joint.
What happens if my replace joint gets infected?
If a knee is infected the patient is first given antibiotics. If the infection does not clear up, the implant will have to be taken out and the patient is scheduled for revision surgery. The original components are removed and a block of polyethylene cement treated with antibiotics is inserted into the knee joint for 6 weeks. During this time the patient is also treated with intravenous (I.V.) antibiotics After a minimum of six weeks, new knee components are implanted.
At the airport does it activate metal detectors?
Your knee may activate metal detectors in airports and some buildings. Tell the security agent about your knee replacement if the alarm is activated.
What are common causes for back pain?
Back pain afflicts 80% of the population at some point in their lives. Back pain is not always the result of an accident or injury It may be due to long-term repetitive faulty habits such as poor posture, improper body mechanics and decline in physical fitness. Other common causes include degeneration of the discs, as well as disc herniation or other causes of pinched nerves, such as spinal stenosis.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition caused by the sciatic nerves in the body becoming inflamed. The sciatic nerves begin from your lower spine and continue down the buttock, back of the leg, and into the foot. Symptoms can range from a light tingling feeling, burning sensation to a full blown shooting pain radiating from your lower back, buttock area or leg. Sciatica usually affects only one side..
How do disc injuries cause back pain?
Injury to the disc can cause pain in three different ways. First, the injured disc can itself be painful. Second, the injured disc may be weakened to the point that it is dysfunctional. Normally, the discs acts as "shock absorbers" Thirdly the disc material may press on the nerves
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the space available for the nerves becomes small and the nerves become pinched and inflamed which leads to significant nerve pain. The typical cause of the narrowing of the spinal canal is arthritis of the spine, which gradually narrows the space for the nerves. This condition typically takes years to develop, although it can become debilitating.
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