Below are some typical bone related injuries which we see in clinic. Bone related injuries can be characterised by a dull or sharp pain and can be caused by a variety of conditions. Some common causes of bone pain include:

Fractures

A broken bone can cause severe pain and swelling. If you think you may have a fracture the best first port of call is A&E, however if you are not sure then we commonly assess patients who have a fractured bone and are used to making onward referrals where appropriate.

Stress Fracture

A small crack or breakdown in a bone that occurs as a result of overuse or repetitive motions. Stress fractures are most common in the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot, such as the tibia, fibula, and metatarsals, but can also occur in the upper body, such as the spine, ribs, and arm. Stress fractures are common in athletes, especially runners, and people who engage in high-impact sports, but also occur in military recruits, dancers, gymnasts and other people who engage in repetitive motions.

Symptoms of a stress fracture include pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness. The pain may be described as a dull ache, and it may become more severe as the activity continues.

The treatment for stress fractures typically includes rest, ice, and physiotherapy. Surgery is considered a last resort. The goal of treatment is to allow the bone to heal properly and to prevent further injury. Physical therapy can include exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as modalities like ultrasound, laser, or shockwave therapy. The patient will be also advised to wear a brace or a boot to immobilise the affected area to aid the healing process.

Osteoarthritis

A degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage and bones in a joint. It is the most common form of arthritis and typically affects older adults, but it can also develop in younger people as a result of an injury or other underlying condition.

OA occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in a joint wears down over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement in the affected joint.

Symptoms of OA include:

• Pain: Pain is usually felt in the affected joint, especially with movement or weight-bearing activities.
• Stiffness: Joints affected by OA may feel stiff, especially in the morning or after sitting for a period of time.
• Swelling: Swelling and tenderness may be present in the affected joint
• Limited range of motion: As the disease progresses, the range of motion in the affected joint may become limited.

OA treatment can include a combination of physiotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Physiotherapy can include exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pain relievers, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and avoiding high-impact activities, can also help to reduce stress on the affected joint and slow the progression of the disease.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended if the OA causes significant pain and disability, and there are different types of surgery that can be done to help alleviate the symptoms, such as joint replacement and arthroscopy.

Overall, early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.