General Principles of Initial Care
Orthopedic injuries are common presentations to the emergency department. Most injuries are traumatic in nature, resulting in pain and deformity. Emergency medicine physicians need to be able to recognize the…
Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)
Abstract Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is a common orthopaedic disorder characterized by shoulder pain followed by progressive loss of both active and passive range of motion (ROM) of the…
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Abstract Shoulder impingement is a common source of gradual-onset shoulder pain, accounting for 44-65% of shoulder pain cases. It is mainly caused by repetitive overhead activities, osteophyte formation, or weakness…
Biceps Tendon Injury
Abstract Proximal bicep tendon injuries are seen in active individuals, especially overhead athletes. Injuries to the proximal long head biceps tendon range from overuse (tendinitis) to complete rupture. Physical exam…
The Overhead-Throwing Athlete
Abstract There are many sports that involve overhead throwing, such as baseball, softball, cricket, football, soccer, water polo, javelin throw, as well as many others. Throwing is a complex motion…
Imaging of the Musculoskeletal System
Abstract Diagnostic imaging plays a central role in the evaluation of most types of orthopaedic conditions. Radiography has been a mainstay in orthopaedics since its inception, and advanced imaging modalities…
Multidirectional Shoulder Instability
Abstract Multidirectional shoulder instability is defined as symptomatic instability of the glenohumeral joint, usually associated with joint capsule laxity. Repetitive microtrauma or congenital hyperlaxity can contribute to the development of…
Trauma: Principles of Fracture Management
Abstract The identification and proper management of fracture is a critical component of musculoskeletal care. This chapter provides an overview on fracture management, summarizing the basic principles of physical exam,…
Pain Management: Chronic Pain
Abstract Chronic pain is defined as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience arising from actual or potential damage to tissue, lasting longer than 3 months. An increasingly common clinical diagnosis,…
