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Kyphosis: Understanding the “Hunchback” Posture, Its Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Kyphosis is a word many people hear only when they or someone around them develops a visible hump or rounded upper back. In simple terms, it refers to an excessive forward curve of the upper spine , especially in the chest area (thoracic region). A small curve is normal, but when it becomes too sharp, it changes posture, causes discomfort, and sometimes affects daily life. Although kyphosis can appear at any age, it’s especially common in teenagers —mostly due to poor posture—and older adults because of bone weakness. What Exactly Is Kyphosis? If you look at someone from the side, you’ll notice a natural curve in their upper back. But in kyphosis, this curve becomes too large, giving a rounded or hunched look. Some people don’t feel pain at all, while others experience stiffness, discomfort, or fatigue after sitting or standing for long periods. Kyphosis isn’t always dangerous, but ignoring it c...

Fractures of the Hip: Types, Causes, Clinical Features, Diagnosis & Management Introduction Hip fractures are serious injuries that commonly occur in the elderly but can affect all age groups. They involve a break in the proximal femur and often lead to significant morbidity, disability, and increased mortality if not treated promptly. Early diagnosis and timely management are crucial for restoring mobility, reducing complications, and improving functional outcomes. Types of Hip Fractures Hip fractures are broadly classified into intracapsular and extracapsular fractures. 1. Intracapsular Fractures These occur within the capsule of the hip joint. a. Subcapital Fracture Just below the femoral head. High risk of avascular necrosis (AVN). b. Transcervical Fracture Through the neck of the femur. c. Basicervical Fracture At the base of the femoral neck. Complications: High chances of disrupted blood supply → AVN & non-union. 2. Extracapsular Fracture...

Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Physiotherapy Management Neck pain (cervical pain) is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting millions of people worldwide. Sedentary lifestyle, long screen time, poor posture, and muscle strain are among the leading contributors. Neck pain may be mild and temporary — or severe enough to affect daily activities, sleep, and work productivity. What Is Neck Pain? Neck pain refers to discomfort, stiffness, or soreness in the cervical region — from the base of the skull to the upper shoulders. It may be: Mechanical (muscle or joint-related) Neuropathic (nerve-related) Referred pain from shoulder, upper back, or jaw Neck pain is also called cervicalgia . Common Causes of Neck Pain Neck pain develops from many conditions. The most frequent include: 1. Muscle Strain Overuse Long sitting Poor posture (“text neck”) Sudden jerky movements 2. Poor Ergonomics Laptop use Mobile phone use ...

Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS): Principles, Steps, and Clinical Importance Introduction Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) is a standardized, evidence-based trauma management system developed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). It provides a systematic and prioritized approach for the assessment and management of trauma patients during the first hour of care , also known as the golden hour . The core purpose of ATLS is simple: identify and treat life-threatening conditions first , restore physiological stability, and ensure safe transfer to advanced care when required. Trauma remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In such cases, a structured protocol like ATLS improves clinical decision-making, decreases treatment delays, and ensures better outcomes. Objectives of ATLS ATLS training aims to help healthcare providers: Rapidly identify life-threatening injuries Manage airway obstruction, shock, severe bleeding, and thoracic inju...

Monteggia Fracture: Definition, Types, Causes, Diagnosis & Management Introduction A Monteggia fracture is a severe and complex forearm injury characterized by a fracture of the proximal ulna along with dislocation of the radial head at the elbow. It was first described by Giovanni Battista Monteggia in 1814 and remains one of the most challenging injuries to diagnose and treat because the fracture and joint dislocation must be addressed together. Monteggia fracture-dislocations are particularly common in children but also occur in adults, typically due to high-energy trauma. What is a Monteggia fracture? A Monteggia fracture has two major components: 1. Fracture of the Proximal Ulna Usually in the upper one-third or middle one-third of the ulna Often angulated or displaced 2. Dislocation of the Radial Head Radial head is displaced from its normal articulation with the capitellum Can be anterior, posterior, or lateral depending on injury mechanism This ...

Galeazzi Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Physiotherapy Management Introduction A Galeazzi fracture is a unique and unstable forearm injury that involves a fracture of the distal third of the radius along with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) . Known as the “fracture of necessity,” this injury almost always requires surgical management in adults. This fracture was first described by the Italian surgeon Riccardo Galeazzi , and it remains an important orthopedic emergency due to the complexity of bone and ligament damage involved. What is a Galeazzi Fracture? A typical Galeazzi fracture involves: 1. Distal Radius Fracture Usually at the junction of the middle and distal third of the radius 2. DRUJ Dislocation The ulnar head becomes displaced DRUJ stability is disrupted This combination makes the injury highly unstable. Mechanism of Injury Galeazzi fractures occur due to: Fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH) with forc...

Volkmann’s Ischemic Contracture (VIC): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Management Volkmann’s Ischemic Contracture (VIC) is a severe and disabling complication resulting from untreated or prolonged compartment syndrome of the forearm. It leads to irreversible muscle and nerve damage , resulting in fixed flexion deformity of the wrist and fingers , weakness, loss of sensation, and impaired upper limb function. The condition was first described by Richard von Volkmann in 1881, highlighting the relationship between ischemia and contractures. Early recognition of compartment syndrome is essential because Volkmann Contracture is preventable if treated in time. What is Volkmann’s Ischemic Contracture? (Definition) Volkmann’s Ischemic Contracture is a permanent shortening (contracture) of forearm muscles caused by ischemia due to increased compartment pressure . It leads to: Flexion deformity of the wrist Flexion contracture of fingers Loss of hand grip Sensory defici...