Orthopedic Care for Women

Orthopedic Care For Women

Muscle, bone, and joint injuries can occur in both females and males. However, we know that certain conditions are more prevalent in women than men. Women are greatly different when it comes to their anatomy, the tissue that supports their bones, and the variations in hormones. These unique considerations make female structures much different than their male counterparts.

Bone health, in general, is critical for females of all ages, from young teens who may experience sport-related injuries, to elderly women who require treatment for osteoarthritis. We strive to deliver exceptional care to all women who require treatment, as well as help identify preventative methods to help avoid future injuries. Our extensively trained orthopedic surgeons and medical care teams offer the latest advancements in sports medicine, joint replacement, and other orthopedic treatments including those that are more common among women. As you have come to expect excellence from all of us at every department of BayCare, we provide the highest standards of safety and patient-centered care in all areas of orthopedic care.

Frozen Shoulder

If the tissues in the shoulder joint become thick, stiff, or inflamed, frozen shoulder may appear. The cause of this condition is still unknown although most patients who suffer from this condition undergo surgery or have their shoulder immobilized as treatment. Most women who experience frozen shoulder are between the ages of 40 to 60, although it can occur in younger women, too.

ACL Injury

For female athletes who participate in fast-paced sports like soccer or basketball, they are at a higher risk for an ACL tear since their body constantly pivots from one side to the other.  The ACL of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament is located in the knee and connects the top of the lower leg bone to the bottom of the thigh bone. Females are more prone to ACL tears than men because of their bone structure, as well as their pelvic and lower leg alignment.

Ankle Injuries

Women are more prone to injuring their ankle than men due to differences in stabilizing strategies. The most commonly seen injuries to the ankle are sprains and tendinitis. Many ankle injuries in women have also been linked to wearing high heels in recent years.

Neuroma

Since women’s feet tend to be more narrow than that of males, excessive irritation and pressure can occur, which can cause a neuroma. A neuroma is a benign tumor of the nerve. The nerve tissue thickens and it passes under the ligament connecting the toe bones, which causes the neuroma. When shoes do not fit properly, this type of pressure and irritation can occur causing the neuroma to develop further.

Trigger Finger

When the flexor tendon in the finger becomes irritated it can be difficult to bend or straighten. Nodules will develop in the tendon, causing it to become stuck as it tries to extend. And, as a result, your finger will pop out into extension.

Ganglion Cysts

Females who develop arthritis are at higher risk for experiencing ganglion cysts. Ganglion cysts are a fluid-filled lump that forms in the hand, most commonly found on the back of the wrist or at the base of the finger.

Osteoporosis

Bone density loss, as well as a heightened risk of fractures, are common with this progressive condition. The most common areas for fractures are in the hip, spine, arm, and leg – often appearing after a slip and fall accident. This condition is more common in women than it is men and affects nearly 30 percent of all women in the United States.

Joint and Back Pain for Women

Many women report some form of back or joint pain, which can be dull, sharp, radiating, shooting, or burning. Some pain may be mild and can be managed at home, however pain levels can become more severe if left untreated. Back pain in women can be caused for many reasons, including:

• Bulging discs
• Bone density loss
• Pregnancy
• Sports injuries
• Spinal deterioration
• Poor posture

Non-Surgical Treatments

Aside from surgery, the orthopedic experts at BayCare provide education on exercise and nutrition, provide access to an experienced physical therapy team, and connect you to a variety of imaging that can support a faster recovery.