November 03, 2025

Orthopedic issues may occur in both children and adults. Timely care can be a big difference, whether it is joint pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving. The positive thing is that a majority of orthopedic disorders can be treated through the use of simple interventions, physiotherapy, medication, or lifestyle modifications. This guide outlines nine common orthopedic problems and their recommended treatments.

1. Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is a prevalent age-related bone joint disorder in which the cartilage that surrounds the bones gradually degenerates. It usually concerns the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

What Causes It?

Osteoarthritis may occur because of aging, past injury, being overweight or genetic factors, or recurrent strain on joints. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) published the results of the study, stating that almost 22-39 percent of Indian adults have osteoarthritis symptoms.

Best Treatments

·       Strength and flexibility physiotherapy.

·       Weight reduction to decrease joint load.

·       Pain-relief drugs (doctor-prescribed)

·       In moderate cases, joint injections are used.

·       In severe cases, joint replacement is performed.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system in the body attacks the joints.

Common Symptoms

·       Morning stiffness

·       Warm, tender, and swollen joints.

·       Sleepiness and lack of movement.

Treatment Options

·       Disease-modifying medication (DMARDs)

·       Physiotherapy to improve mobility.

·       Frequent check-ups to avoid joint destruction.

3. Lower Back Pain

One of the most common orthopedic issues in India is lower back pain. It can be caused by muscle tension, poor posture, a disc problem, or long sitting.

Where It Comes From

The factors can include lifestyle habits, weak core muscles, heavy lifting, and stress. According to AIIMS Delhi, more than 60 percent of the urban Indian adult population reports lower back pain at least once a year.

Treatments

·       Stretching and core-strengthening exercises.

·       Hot and cold therapy

·       Posture correction

·       Physiotherapy sessions

·       Minimally invasive procedures are rare in cases.

4. Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a condition that makes the shoulder joint stiff and limited in movement, with pain dragging you back. You may need assistance from the top orthopedic hospital in Chennai to put you in a better place to recover more easily.

Symptoms

·       Pain during movement

·       Difficulty raising the arm

·       Gradual loss of flexibility

Treatments

·       Physiotherapy and stretching.

·       Heat therapy

·       Anti-inflammatory medicines

·       Persistent stiffness, steroid injections.

5. Ligament Injuries (ACL, MCL, Ankle Sprains)

Ligaments connect the joints, and in the bustling routine of our daily life, whether it is our daily exercise program or a sudden twist at the house, injuries may creep up without any notice. Should you ever happen to be sidelined by some joint pain or a tear to the ligament, you may want to consider the professional services of a reputable joint pain specialist in Chennai, such as Dr. Kunal Patel, who is reputed to be among the best ortho doctors in Chennai.

Why They Happen

The sudden twists, falls, high-impact sports, or incorrect landing can cause tears in the ligament, and when the pain in your knee keeps you out of the game, the best orthopedic doctor in Chennai can provide the care you need to heal.

Treatments

·       RICE technique: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.

·       Knee or ankle braces

·       Strengthening physiotherapy

·       Surgery (severe tear only)

6. Tendonitis

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon as a result of overuse or injury. It usually attacks the shoulder, elbow, knee, and heel.

Symptoms

·       Sharp pain during movement

·       Swelling around the tendon

·       Reduced mobility

Treatments

·       Rest and ice packs

·       Flexibility and strength physiotherapy.

·       Anti-inflammatory medication

·       Supportive braces

7. Slip Disc (Herniated Disc)

A slipped disc happens when a spinal disc protrudes and compresses the surrounding nerves.

Common Causes

Lifting heavy, sitting poorly, aging, or abrupt movements.

Symptoms

·       Back or neck pain

·       Numbness in arms or legs

·       Tingling or weakness

Treatment Options

·       Physiotherapy

·       Pain-relief medication

·       Spinal injections

·       Only in case of severe nerve compression.

8. Plantar Fasciitis

It is a condition that occurs in the thick tissue at the bottom of the foot and results in heel pain.

What Causes It?

Excessive use, prolonged standing, inappropriate footwear, and high-impact activities.

Symptoms

·       Pain at the heel (particularly in the morning)

·       Discomfort with long walks.

Treatments

·       Stretching exercises

·       Foot cushions or orthotics.

·       Ice therapy

·       Physiotherapy

9. Shoulder Impingement

This happens when the tendons in the shoulder are pinched when the arms are in motion.

Why It Happens

Poor posture, weak shoulder muscles, or repetitive strain.

Symptoms

·       Pain when lifting the arm

·       Problems with getting behind the back.

·       Reduced shoulder strength

Treatments

·       Posture correction

·       Strengthening physiotherapy

·       Anti-inflammatory medication

·       Heat or ice therapy

Conclusion

Orthopedic issues are typical, and they can be treated successfully with proper instructions. Early treatment and physiotherapy may be used, but more commonly, simple changes in lifestyle result in the recovery of many people with no long-term complications. In case of persistent pain or in case of a loved one, it is possible to prevent further pain and assist in achieving better mobility by referring to an orthopedic specialist as soon as possible. Contact us to start your treatment procedure right away.

FAQs

1. What are the most common orthopedic problems in India?

Osteoarthritis, back pain, ligament injuries, frozen shoulder, and tendonitis are among the most common orthopedic conditions.

2. Can orthopedic conditions improve without surgery?

Yes. Many problems improve with physiotherapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and non-invasive treatments.

3. When should I consult a doctor?

If pain continues for more than two weeks or affects your daily activities, it is best to seek medical advice.

4. Are orthopedic treatments safe?

Most orthopedic treatments are safe when guided by a qualified specialist. They may include exercises, medicines, injections, or minimally invasive options.

5. Can joint pain treatment prevent arthritis from worsening?

Timely joint pain treatment, physiotherapy, and weight management can slow down progression and improve mobility.