An introduction to Orthopaedic Medicine...

Orthopaedic medicine is the examination, diagnosis and non surgical treatment of conditions of the muscles, bones and joints. In the United Kingdom the father of orthopaedic medicine was a Dr James Cyriax, a consultant physician at St Thomas’ hospital in London.

The crucial factor is in the accuracy of the diagnosis and a thorough medical history and examination.

The basic Cyriax theory is that ;

• All pain has a source
• All treatment must reach the source
• All treatment must benefit the lesion

There are many muscle and joint conditions that do not require surgery. There are also many muscular and joint conditions that do not have a pathological process that can be found under the microscope. However the pain and dysfunction is real.

What can Orthopaedic Medicine treat?

It can treat all conditions of the muscles and joints. From osteoarthritis to back pain to joint disorders.

What will happen at my appointment?

Your first appointments can last for up to an hour. You are welcome to bring a relative or friend with you if you wish. Follow up appointments last up to half an hour.

Initially I will ask you lots of questions about your problem e.g. how long its been there, what makes it worse, and how it interferes with your life. I will also ask some general questions about your health. Then I will carry out a thorough examination. This will include assessment of posture and full examination of joints and muscles. In order to obtain an accurate diagnosis you will be asked to undress to your underwear but gowns are always available. From there we can begin to work out an individual treatment programme for you. This will vary according to your particular problem and will involve some of the following techniques :

How many sessions will it take?

This is very dependant on the problem but if all is required is a joint injection, then one or two appointments will be sufficient. More complex problems are likely to take longer.

My Philosophy

I will seek to incorporate my knowledge and experience of acupuncture, osteopathy and traditional medicine to create a unique treatment programme for each individual. This means often using a combination of these disciplines to offer a comprehensive musculoskeletal service.