Category: Pain

bone specialist
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in orthopaedic, Pain

How a Bone Specialist Can Help You

There are many ways that a bone specialist can help you achieve the best orthopedic solution. Let’s take a look at the different types of problems that they deal with and how they can help you.

Orthopedic Surgeon

An orthopedic surgeon deals with the branch of medicine that corrects deformities. An orthopaedic surgeon is an expert who focuses on the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgery is in-demand within the medical profession.

Hand

Do you need hand treatment or surgery? Western Orthopedics is a clinic in Sydney that specialises in orthopedic surgery. 

Ganglion

A ganglion is a sac-like swelling or cyst. It is formed from the tissue that lines a joint or tendon. The tissue is called synovium. It functions to produce lubricating fluid for these areas. A ganglion is a cyst formed by the synovium that contains a thick jelly-like fluid. 

A ganglion can follow local trauma to the tendon or joint. They usually form for unknown reasons that cannot be pinpointed. The only truth is that they can be early signs of arthritis. If you suffer from a ganglion wrist, there are many orthopedic surgeons available to help with treatment. 

Wrist Pain

Wrist pain is any discomfort that is found within the wrist. It can often be caused by:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Wrist injury
  • Arthritis
  • Gout

Contracture

A contracture can develop in different parts of your body, such as muscle and skin and joints. The main symptom of contracture deformity is the inability to move certain areas within your body. You might also have pain. This depends on the location and cause of the contracture.

Muscle

A muscle contracture involves the shortening and tightening of the muscles. A bone specialist can help you to resolve muscle contracture problems.

Skin

A skin contracture may develop through scarring from an injury, burn, or past surgery. This will limit your ability to move that part of your body. A bone specialist can help you to resolve skin contracture problems.

Joint

A joint contracture can happen where two or more bones connect. You tend to experience a limited range of motion in that area of your body.  A bone specialist can help you to resolve joint contracture problems.

Cubital Tunnel

Cubital tunnel happens when the ulnar nerve is stretched or compressed. This happens in the area where it crosses the elbow. Symptoms of cubital tunnel include:

  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers
  • Pain and soreness across the forearm
  • Weakness or soreness in the hand area

Arthrodesis

Arthrodesis is also referred to as joint fusion. It is a method of surgical joint ossification used to fuse the bones in a joint. This happens when other treatments do not provide the desired results.

Wrist Joint

Do you suffer from wrist joint problems? Doctor Sunner is an orthopedic Surgeon who specialises in orthopedics. He completed his training in Australia and Canada and opened his first clinic in Penrith in 2020.

His services are available from a range of locations in Sydney. Dr Sunner values times with his patients. He ensures that they are comfortable and well informed so that they can achieve the best results.

Need A Bone Specialist?

Western orthopedics offers the best orthopedic treatment and surgery in Sydney. Surgical procedures include:

  • Total Hip Replacement
  • Hip Resurfacing
  • Total Knee Replacement
  • Partial Knee Replacement
  • Total shoulder Replacement
  • Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

Western Orthopedics Quizzes

Take one of the following quizzes designed by Western Orthopedics. This will help you to understand your orthopedic problem and find the best solutions.

The Hip Quiz

Many conditions can cause or contribute to chronic hip pain, and many treatments exist. Each person’s experience with chronic hip pain will be different. Take the hip quiz.

The Knee Quiz

The cause of your knee pain can determine the symptoms you experience. Chronic knee pain is long-term pain, swelling, or sensitivity in one or both knees. Take the knee quiz.

The Shoulder Quiz

Many conditions can cause or contribute to chronic shoulder pain. The good news is that many treatments exist. Each person’s experience with chronic shoulder pain will be different. Take the shoulder quiz.

orthopedic
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in orthopaedic, Pain

Overcoming Common Orthopedic Problems

There are many treatments and solutions for orthopedic problems. Let’s take a look at common issues and how they are treated with orthopedic surgery.

Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention or correction of injuries. It also deals with disorders of the skeletal system. This is correlated with muscles, joints, and ligaments. The musculoskeletal system offers support, stability and form, giving your body the ability to move. Most musculoskeletal injuries can be ascribed to strenuous, sports-related activities.

Western Orthopedics 

In 1989, Dr Sunner completed his Medical Degree at the University of Sydney. Since then, he has achieved extra training and a fellowship in Winnipeg, Canada.

Dr Sunner returned to Penrith in 2002 to begin his private practice, Western Orthopaedics. He continues to research new procedures and improve his orthopedic methods. This is to ensure that you walk away from any orthopedic surgery completely healed and satisfied.

Western Orthopedics Services

As an ever-evolving practice, our Western Orthopaedics team has incorporated computer navigation into knee replacement surgery. We specialise in shoulder stabilisations, hip arthroscopy, arthroscopic knee reconstructions and rotator cuff repairs of the shoulder.

We also offer arthroplasty (joint restoration) procedures and may use a prosthesis to restore the integrity and function of a particular joint.

Calcified Tendonitis

Calcific tendonitis is a condition triggered by calcium deposits. This is the building up in a person’s muscles or tendons. If calcium builds up in an area, a person may feel pain and discomfort with a limited range of movement.

This condition can arise in other parts of the body too. The most common area for calcific tendonitis to develop is within the rotator cuff. This is the group of muscles and tendons that provide strength and stability. They provide strength and stability to the upper arm and shoulder. Orthopedic surgery may be necessary to treat calcified tendonitis.

Arthroscope

Arthroscopy is the examination of the inside of a joint. It is performed using a special illuminating instrument. This is inserted through creating a small incision. The incisions are usually less than one centimetre in size.

The arthroscope is slender and less than five millimetres in diameter. It has a fibre-optic light source and a magnifying lens attached to it. Tiny instruments are capable of cutting or shaving material from within the joint. They are inserted through other small incisions, if necessary.

Trapeziectomy

A trapeziectomy involves removing the trapezium. This is a small bone that is located in your wrist. Your arm is numbed using a regional anaesthetic or a general anaesthetic. Your orthopedic surgeon will make a small cut on the back of your hand at the base of your thumb. Then they will remove your trapezium. Your orthopedic surgeon will close your skin with a small number of stitches. A trapeziectomy usually takes 60-90 minutes to complete.

Laceration

A laceration is a deep cut or tear that happens on your skin. Accidents with knives, tools, and machinery are frequent causes of lacerations. In the case of a deep laceration, bleeding can be rapid and extensive. This requires emergency orthopedic surgery to help fix the laceration.

Epicondylitis

Epicondylitis can occur suddenly or develop slowly over time. It all depends on what causes the development of epicondylitis. Symptoms can range from mild to severe pain and may require orthopedic treatment. If you have a painful elbow problem, you may experience any of the following:

  • Pain on the inside of your elbow
  • Elbow soreness and stiffness
  • Hand, wrist and arm weakness
  • Tingling sensation or numbness in the fingers
  • Difficulty with movement

It is very common for elbow pain to move downwards from the arm to the wrist. This makes it difficult to complete everyday activities and can be very frustrating. Activities such as picking up items, opening a door, or giving a handshake become difficult.

Orthopedic Quiz

Do you suffer from an orthopedic problem? Western Orthopedics can help you to understand the problem and find a solution. Take one of our quizzes today.

orthopedic surgeon
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in Information, orthopaedic, Pain, Surgery

Seeking The Right Orthopedic Surgeon

Seeking the right orthopedic surgeon can be a worrying process. This is certainly true if you are already suffering from orthopedic problems. It also applies to those who have other musculoskeletal ailments. But the truth is that there is no need to add to the stress that you are already feeling. There is always a solution when it comes to finding the right orthopedic surgeon.

There are many factors to consider when it comes to deciding on your advanced orthopedic surgery. You need to make sure you are provided with the best care. It is also important to ensure that you will recover well. Orthopedic surgery is supposed to set you up for a healthier and happier future that is pain-free.

At Western Orthopedics, we care about helping you to find an orthopedic surgeon that is right for you. We have come up with a guide to follow so that your orthopedic journey is as successful as possible. Follow these steps for making the best choices. This will guide you to find the best specialist who will perform your orthopedic surgery.

orthopedic surgeon

A Guide to Finding the Right Orthopedic Surgeon

Step 1 – Communication

When beginning your search, try not to focus too much on ‘the best’. Many surgeons who do an incredible job, will not need to emphasise that they are ‘the best’. The truth is that there are many surgeons out there who have done a lot of training. They do not need to state that they are ‘the best’.  

Focus your energy on finding a surgeon who has a lot of experience in orthopedics. Focus on finding an orthopedic doctor who is happy to listen to your problem and find you a solution.

To begin your search for the right orthopedic surgeon, focus on the following tasks:

  • Discuss your concerns with your primary doctor. This will start the process. They will be able to refer you to local orthopedic specialists in the area.
  • Speak to people that you know who have already had orthopedic surgery. They may be able to recommend a clinic near you.
  • Do your research. There is no harm in looking on the internet to find some reviews and read other people’s experiences. It could guide you in the most helpful direction.

Step 2 – Preparation

Sometimes doctors have very long waiting lists. It could take some time to book an appointment. When you speak with your doctor, they will be able to determine how urgent your case is. It is especially important for you to communicate your levels of pain. Nobody should have to continue suffering and living with pain. Especially when there are orthopedic solutions available. 

Be sure to reach out to your insurance company to prepare for everything that is ahead. It can be an expensive journey with orthopedics, but it sure is worth it. If you have health insurance, reach out and see what is covered for you.

Step 3 – Document Your Pain Levels

Orthopedic surgery is a long journey but it is for the better. After you have received your orthopedic surgery, you will be able to go on with life pain-free. It is important to document your levels before you meet with your orthopedic surgeon. You will be asked many questions and thus need to be prepared to answer them. The more your orthopedic surgeon knows about your problem, the more they will be able to help. This is a solution for long-term longevity.

Step 4 – Maintain Good Health

It is not always the orthopedic surgeon who changes everything. You can have a huge positive impact on your own orthopedic journey too. Start living a more healthy lifestyle each day because this will prepare you for surgery. The following solutions will help you to achieve the best possible recovery post-surgery.

  • Eat more fruit, vegetables and protein
  • Start taking supplements to boost your immunity
  • Drink more water
  • Ensure you have routine
  • Quality sleep
  • Maintain a positive mental attitude

Orthopedic Surgeon Near Me

Need an orthopedic surgeon to help you find an orthopedic solution? Dr Pavitar Sunner has the tools and training to treat any hip, knee or shoulder injury.

You can take the hip, knee or shoulder quiz today to discover how Western Orthopedics can help you. We are a dedicated team of specialists who are passionate about helping people to live pain-free.

orthopedic pain management
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in orthopaedic, Pain

Orthopedic Pain Management

What is orthopedic pain management?

Orthopedic pain management is an important part of any joint replacement surgery process. After surgery, your orthopedic surgeon works with you to create a care plan to help manage your pain. Your orthopedic pain management plan includes any of the following:

  • Rest
  • Massage
  • Ice/heat therapy
  • Over-the-counter pain medication
  • Prescription pain medication
  • Other complementary therapies
  • Physical therapy
  • Other movement therapies

How long does pain last after orthopedic surgery?

After surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will assess your pain. Your orthopedic pain management will depend on your condition. This comes down to whether you are able to go home or have to stay a night in the hospital. You will receive any of the following orthopedic pain management medications:

It’s important that you take your pain medication prescribed by your orthopedic surgeon. You should request orthopedic pain medication when the pain first begins. This will help to keep it under control.

What is the best orthopedic pain management medication?

Here are some types of orthopedic pain management medication that you may use. This includes before, during or after orthopedic surgery.

  • Over-the-counter pain medications
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Epidural and/or steroid injections
  • Skeletal muscle relaxers
  • Local anaesthetics

In some cases, opioids may be prescribed for orthopedic pain management. But, it is best to try avoiding opioids after surgery. This is because these medications are narcotics and can trigger addictions. If you need to use them, be sure to reduce the intake as your pain begins to lessen.

What are some orthopedic pain management techniques?

When you follow your care plan, your orthopedic pain will gradually begin to reduce. It’s important to follow the instructions from your orthopedic specialist. Here are some factors that play a vital role in your recovery.

Perform Gentle Exercise

Everybody needs exercise to stay fit and healthy. It’s important to ensure that you have a gentle exercise plan in place following surgery. Do not force yourself to take part in challenging training programs. Gentle walks are the best way to deal with orthopedic pain management.

Healthy, Balanced Diet

A healthy, balanced diet is one of the most significant factors for your recovery. The healthier your diet, the quicker your body can use the nutrients to recover from surgery. Avoid consuming too much sugar and ensure that you increase the following:

  • Vegetable
  • Fruit
  • Fibre
  • Protein

Increase Water Intake

Your body needs a significant water intake post surgery. Keeping yourself hydrated is another technique to deal with orthopedic pain management.

Use Supplements

Reader’s Digest states that there are 6 best supplements to take after surgery. This includes:

  • Vitamin K
  • Grape seed extract
  • Coenzyme Q10
  • Arnica
  • Fish oils
  • Iron

Take Extra Rest

Taking naps during the day and getting quality sleep at night is extra important for you. After surgery, your body requires time to heal itself. Having extra rest will ensure that you are giving your body a chance to recover.

Seek Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy restores, maintains, and makes the most of a patient’s mobility. This can be a great technique for orthopedic pain management. Physiotherapy helps through physical rehabilitation, injury prevention, and health and fitness. Your physiotherapist will help you on your journey to recovery.

Need An Orthopedic Specialist?

Need an orthopedic specialist to find you a pain-free solution? Dr Pavitar Sunner can help you with non-surgical options and orthopedic surgery. Western Orthopedics strike back with advanced medical technology. They are specialists in the treatment of bones and joints such as:

  • Knee
  • Hip
  • Back
  • Neck
  • Spine
  • Foot
  • Ankle
  • Elbow
  • Shoulder
  • Hand
  • Wrist

Dr Pavitar Sunner

orthopedic pain management Dr Pavitar Sunner completed his Medical Degree at the University of Sydney in 1989.

He has also completed orthopedic training in the North Side Sydney Training program. Dr Sunner is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in Australia. He is an expert in:

  • Orthopedic surgery
  • Minimally invasive surgery
  • Arthroscopic surgery
  • Sports medicine
hip replacement
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in Information, orthopaedic, Pain, Surgery

The 4 Most Common Hip Replacement Questions Answered

What is a Hip Replacement?

A hip replacement involves replacing a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant. Adults of any age can opt for a hip replacement if they are living with pain. The most common age range is between 60 and 80 years old. A hip replacement lasts for around 15 years.

The benefits of having a hip replacement, when healed after surgery include:

  •         Reduced pain
  •         Improved range of movement

What Are the Signs of Needing a Hip Replacement? 

You should seek hip-replacement surgery if you are having problems such as osteoarthritis. This chronic condition involves a deterioration of cartilage.

Rheumatoid arthritis is another condition. This is where there is inflammation of a joint lining and the lining becomes inflamed. Due to swelling that may occur, it can destroy the surrounding bone and cartilage.

Finally, if you are suffering from osteonecrosis then this is a sign that you may need to seek treatment. Osteonecrosis is a disease that causes a decrease in blood supply to an area of bone. Loss of blood can cause the bone to break down and collapse.

hip replacement
hip replacement

How Painful is a Hip Replacement?

It is important to recognise your journey to take note of the gradual reduction of pain. After all, it is more painful to continue without a hip replacement than having one. Speak to your hip specialist to discuss the journey and take note of pain on the following dates:

  •         Before you have your surgery
  •         Your time during hospital
  •         The first two weeks after surgery
  •         3 months after surgery

A hip replacement is quite painful after surgery but not as painful as a knee replacement. Pain, swelling, and bruising are part of the natural recovery process. That is why medication is the best way to manage pain. Gentle activity and a healthy diet also contribute to a more successful recovery.

Medication

There are different types of medication prescribed for short-term pain relief after surgery.

Pain management medication includes:

  •         Opioids
  •         Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  •         Acetaminophen
  •         Local anaesthetics

It is best to try avoiding opioids after surgery. This is because these medications are narcotics and can cause addictions. If you need to use them, be sure to reduce the intake as your pain begins to reduce.

Gentle Activity

Exercise is an essential part of the healing process during the first few weeks. It can be beneficial to have a physical therapist help you at home or in a therapy centre. This is only for the first few weeks after surgery. 3 to 6 weeks following surgery is when you will be able to return to normal life.

Gentle activities include:

  •         Walking programs
  •         Specific gentle exercises several times a day. to restore movement and strengthen your hip.

Healthy Diet

Some people may lose their appetite for serval weeks after surgery. This is common, but, if you feel like you have lost your appetite then be sure to drink plenty of water. It is important to have a balanced diet and try nourishing your body in the best possible way.

Some people use an iron supplement as this is important to promote proper tissue healing. Iron also helps to restore muscle strength.

How Long Does Hip Replacement Recovery Take?

Rothman state that there are 5 tips for successful total hip replacement recovery. This includes:

  •         Having an exercise plan in place
  •         Maintaining a healthy diet and body weight
  •         Taking steps to prevent blood clots
  •         Preparing your household for reduced mobility

Western Orthopedics 

When you need a qualified and caring practitioner in Sydney, Western Orthopedics have a solution for you. Their principal orthopedic surgeon — Dr Pavitar Sunner — has the tools and training to treat any hip injury with careful attention and expertise. Complete this quick and easy hip quiz today to see how Dr Sunner can help you.

 

pain
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in Pain, Surgery

Managing Pain After Surgery

Whilst it’s completely normal that you will experience some pain after your surgery, Dr Sunner and his staff work on making sure you receive the proper care for your recovery.

Post-surgery, Dr Sunner and the Western Orthopedics team will discuss the type of discomfort that you will experience, and approximately how long this discomfort is expected to last for.

Before Surgery

Before surgery please inform Dr Sunner:

• Where you feel pain and how much you have
• What makes it better or worse
• What methods you are using to control it
• If you take medicines to manage your pain on a regular basis
• If you have any allergies or have had reactions to medicine
• If you are currently taking any natural products
• If you smoke
• If you drink more than two alcoholic drinks per day
• If you take illegal drugs

Medication

It is also important to learn about possible side effects of your medication, and what you can do to minimise them.

One of the problems with opioids, a commonly used class of post-surgery pain medications, is that they can have some overwhelming side effects. It should be your job to monitor if any occur side effects occur, as you know your body better than anyone.

You may also want to discuss with Dr Sunner and your GP about any regular medication you are taking pre-surgery, and how this might change after your procedure.

The range of medicine you need to manage your post-surgery pain may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioid analgesics or local anaesthetics. You also need to be aware that if you have undergone a joint replacement you are at greater risk for developing a blood clot in a deep vein.

It is your responsibility as a patient to inform your GP about your post-surgery pain to ensure that your doctor can prescribe the right treatment for you and to avoid side effects.

painPain Management

Non-medical treatments also work in treating pain in the short run. These include after surgery treatment, such as:

• Hypnosis
• Acupuncture/ Massage
• Walking
• Rest & Relaxation
• Cold therapy
• Change in climate

Dr Pavitar Sunner

Dr Sunner will discuss your post-operation rehabilitation with you. You also may want to visit your physiotherapist a couple of times a week and repeat your physio exercises in your own time.

If you have questions, concerns, or side effects from the medicine, consult the doctor who prescribed the medicine, or call your primary care provider.

Dr Sunner can be contacted on (02) 4731 8466

orthepedic
Posted on / by western orthopaedics / in Information, Pain

Is It A Sprain Or A Strain?

As we go about our busy days an occasional strain or sprain isn’t uncommon. It is however common to confuse our symptoms of a pulled muscle or a tight pain, between a sprain or a strain. To treat the ailment correctly, it’s firstly important to identify your injury.

Here’s how to spot the difference:

Sprains

Strains
Bruising Muscle spasm
Pain around the affected joint Pain around the affected joint
Swelling Swelling
Limited flexibility Limited flexibility
Difficulty using the joint’s full range of motion Difficulty using the joint’s full range of motion

The main difference between the two is that with a sprain you may have bruising around the affected joint, whereas with a strain, you may feel like you are having muscle cramps.

You may not be aware that sprains are actually classified by grades:

  • Grade 1: Slight stretching and some damage to the fibres (fibrils) of the ligament.
  • Grade 2: Small tearing of the ligament. There is abnormal looseness (laxity) in the joint when it is moved in certain ways.
  • Grade 3: A tear of the ligament. This causes significant instability and makes the joint nonfunctional.

Similar to sprains, strains are also categorised according to the severity:

  • 1st Degree (mild) – Very few fibres are torn
  • 2nd Degree (moderate) – A large number of fibres are torn
  • 3rd Degree (severe) – A complete rupture of the muscle or tendon

sprain

Treatment

Mild strains and mild sprains are treated similarly. All can be treated without surgery.

  • Do not apply pressure to the area. Rest and give it time to heal.
  • Apply ice to reduce swelling and inflammation to the area.

Never apply ice directly to your skin. Instead, wrap a thin towel or piece of clothing around a bag of ice. Leave it on the affected area for 20 minutes, then remove the ice for 20 minutes. Repeat as much as you can for the first 24 to 48 hours.

  • Bandage the injury. This will help reduce swelling around the joint.
  • Try to elevate the affected joint area to reduce swelling. If you can’t keep your ligaments as high as your heart, parallel to the ground is also OK.

If you think your strain or sprain may be something more serious please call your local GP or healthcare professional. If you’d like more information on our orthopedic services, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr Sunner.

If you have any further questions about the information in this article, please ask your GP. If you are experiencing excruciating pain, please call 000.

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