Osteochondritis Dissecans: Diagnosis & Treatment
While undergoing the physical exam for osteochondritis dissecans, board-certified Dr. Uzma Rehman will check for tenderness or swelling by applying pressure to the affected joint. During this time, the doctor may be able to feel a loose fragment within the joint, and will examine the ligaments and other structures around the joint. The joint’s range of motion will also be tested by the patient moving it in different directions.
Imaging Tests for Osteochondritis Dissecans
Dr. Rehman may order imaging tests when diagnosing osteochondritis dissecans. Through an X-Ray, abnormalities in the joint’s bones may be observed. Similarly, through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), detailed images of not only the bones, but also the cartilage may be observed. In cases when symptoms persist but the x-ray doesn’t show any abnormalities to the bones of the joint, an MRI may be ordered.
Additionally, a Computerized tomography (CT) scan may be used to produce cross-sectional images of the patient’s internal structures. This allows Dr. Rehman to observe the bone with the highest level of detail, which in turn allows for an accurate view of the loose fragments within the joint.
Treating Osteochondritis Dissecans
Through treatment of osteochondritis dissecans, Dr. Rehman’s patients may see their joint restored to normal function, their pain relieved and the risk of osteoarthritis reduced. As every individual’s body is different, different treatment options will work for different people. In cases of children whose bones are still growing, the affected joint will occasionally heal on its own following careful protection and rest.
Osteochondritis Dissecans Therapy
Treatment for osteochondritis dissecans typically begins conservatively, which often starts simply with resting the affected joint, and avoiding unnecessary physical stress or activity. This is occasionally treated by fitting the patient with a cast, splint, or brace. Physical therapy has also been proven to aid in treating osteochondritis dissecans. Range-of-motion and strengthening exercises will help the muscles supporting the injured joint.
Osteochondritis Dissecans Surgery
While conservative measures are often sufficient, some cases of osteochondritis dissecans do require surgery. Surgery may be recommended to patients who did not experience relief after engaging in conservative treatment for four to six months, as well as to patients with a loose fragment in their joint. They type of surgery required will depend on the injury’s size and stage, as well as the maturity of the patient’s bones.
Top Shelby Township Osteochondritis Doctor
If you are suffering from an injury or pain in your fingers, wrist, elbow or arm, contact board certified Shelby Township hand surgeon Doctor Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. As with most medical conditions, early detection, awareness, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like Osteochondritis Dissecans.
Doctor Rehman will assess your individual situation, and prescribe the treatments that are best for your condition.
