As men get older, they may lose bone density that can make them more susceptible to injury. Because of their differences in structural anatomies, men can face challenges in their orthopaedic health differently than females. Recognizing these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis in order to receive better care. Here are the top five orthopaedic injuries for men and how they can be treated.
Men may face more hand and wrist orthopedic injuries than women because of certain activities in which they are most likely to participate. According to the Orthopedic Clinic Association and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, finger fractures are 58% more common in males than females. Men who need surgery for fragility fractures are more likely to suffer another fracture injury within three years.
Contact sports like football is one of the main causes of hand and wrist fractures from grappling and tackling opponents. Working with tools around the home can also cause more injury to the hands and wrists of men more than women. Hand and wrist fractures can be treated without the need for surgery using casts or splints as supportive aids, depending on the severity of the orthopaedic injuries.
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the ankle bone. Its primary purpose is to make flexing your feet possible so you can walk. According to some orthopaedic specialists, men may be three times more likely than women to experience an Achilles tendon tear. Basketball, track and football can put men at high risk for orthopaedic injuries with their Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon tears may be able to heal on their own with assistive support devices or may corrected with surgery.
Soft tissue orthopaedic injuries can be caused by sports injuries and aging. Jobs men frequently engage in that require heavy lifting can break down soft tissues faster, especially in the upper chest area and arms. These highly demanding physical jobs can also put men at greater risk for slips and falls. These soft tissue injuries can often be treated with physical therapy, compression and rest. Soft tissue orthopaedic injuries involving tears may require surgery.
Scheuermann’s Kyphosis is a health condition that causes irregular growth and wedging of the vertebrae in the spine. It forms a rounding in the back that is commonly referred to as a hump. A spinal brace and physical therapy can be beneficial for treating orthopaedic injuries like this in men. Severe curvatures that cause muscle weakness or immobility may require surgery.
Approximately two million men are affected by osteoporosis. While women may be more likely to develop osteoporosis, men have a greater risk of mortality from the disease according to research from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This health condition causes bone thinning and increases the risk for fractures and other orthopaedic injuries. The loss of bone mass in men can be caused by certain lifestyle behaviors and medications. Depending on the cause, there can be a wide variety of treatment options available to treat male osteoporosis.
Orthopaedic injuries are common as men get older and can lead to limited mobility and function. Ignoring an injury can lead to further problems and hasten the need for surgery. At Silicon Valley Orthopaedics, we understand the debilitating impact that orthopaedic injuries can have on men’s health. Our dedicated orthopaedic surgeons can help you achieve improved mobility and optimal joint health with specialized treatment customized for your unique needs. Prevent and repair male orthopaedic injuries by requesting a consultation today to discover the best treatment options for you.
