Category: Blog

Dr. Manu Mengi | Best Orthopedic Doctor in Chandigarh

Embark On a Pain-Free Journey with the Best Doctor for Back Pain in Chandigarh

Back pain, one of the most widespread medical conditions, can keep you from living a normal life. It can start with a dull ache and then switch to a sharp pain that shoots down the leg. Sometimes, it can come on suddenly such as from an accident or lifting something heavy or it can develop gradually due to age-related changes in your spine. Additionally, the inflammatory arthritis disorders can also trigger the back pain.

Types and Symptoms of Back Pain

Back pain can be described based on its location. It can be upper, middle, or lower back pain that occurs on the left, centre, or right side. It can also be described by how long it lasts. Figure out if your pain is mild, moderate, or severe.

Acute Pain – If the pain is acute, it is sudden and is often related to injury.

Chronic Pain – If the pain is chronic, it means that it has lasted more than six months.

Local Back Pain – The reasons for local back pain can be arthritis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, spinal disk degeneration, and spinal stenosis.

Radiating Back Pain – If your back pain is radiating, the various causes include infections, gallbladder inflammation, kidney infections and stones, liver problems, urinary tract infections, and much more.

In women, the reasons vary from endometriosis to uterine fibroids and pregnancy.

Causes

The weight of your upper body solely relies on your lumbar spine which is in the lower back. It is responsible for daily movements such as bending and helping the coordination of your muscles in the pelvis, hips, legs, and feet. Due to overuse, the bones, nerves, and disks found in your lumbar spine are more prone to injury and wear and tear, triggering pain in your lower back pain. Sometimes, straining a muscle or spraining a ligament can also cause lower back pain. However, the back pain due to sprain or strain is not long-lasting, taking anywhere from a few days to a few months. If you are feeling moderate to severe pain that does not go away with rest or medication, choose the Best Back Pain Specialist in Chandigarh. He will provide you with an appropriate treatment to relieve or alleviate your pain.

Other Causes of Lower Back Pain

Spinal Stenosis: – This condition occurs due to the narrowing of the spinal canal in your lower back which leads to pressure on the nearby nerve roots. It happens due to the formation of bone spurs or degeneration of a joint or lumbar disk. It can also trigger sciatica.

Spinal compression fracture: – It generally occurs due to osteoporosis in which a vertebra in your lumbar spine collapses. It further causes severe pain and limited spinal movement.

Herniated disk: – This condition occurs when the inner gel of one of the disks of your lumbar spine slips. It further allows the inner gel to put pressure on the surrounding nerves, leading to pain.

Symptoms include:

  • Significantly worse pain in the morning.
  • Sharp pain that starts from your lower back and shoots down your leg.
  • Pain that worsens when you sit and recovers while walking.

Who is at higher risk for back pain?

  • Those who do not exercise.
  • Have an underlying medical condition such as cancer or arthritis.
  • Prone to anxiety or depression.
  • Lifting things using your back instead of your legs.
  • Smoking as it can lead to herniated disks.

Prevention

  • Working on your physical condition can help you prevent back pain
  • Exercise regularly to increase the strength and endurance of your back. You can choose among low-impact aerobic exercises, walking, cycling, and swimming.
  • Make lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy weight as being overweight can strain the back muscles.
  • Quit smoking to reduce the chances of back pain

When to See an Orthopaedist

If your chronic back pain lasts for more than 12 weeks or if you are feeling difficulty in performing your daily tasks, call an orthopaedist right away. If you are in Chandigarh (Tricity), look no further than Dr. Manu Mengi. With an impressive medical background and years of practice in the field, he is the Best Doctor for Back Pain in Chandigarh. He makes his best effort to identify the source of back pain by performing physical examinations and diagnostic imaging such as MRI and X-ray to help his patients get rid of the pain.

Are you looking for a qualified and experienced orthopaedist for your Back Pain in Chandigarh? Make an appointment with Dr. Manu Mengi today. Bid goodbye to pain and welcome a brighter future under his expert care.

December 15, 2023 / by Manu

Shoulder Pain: Exploring Causes and Treatment

Your shoulder is prone to pain and issues

Your shoulder is made of several joints combined with muscles and tendons to facilitate movement in different ways. However, this mobility comes at a cost. You may face growing problems with the instability of soft tissues in your shoulder as you age. Consequently, it will cause pain.

Types of shoulder pain and when to see a doctor

Apart from aging, there can be some common causes such as arthritis and muscle imbalance that can lead to shoulder pain. When brushing your hair or getting something overhead becomes a chore, it’s high time to figure out the cause. The pain can range from mild to severe and start over time or unexpectedly.

If you feel excruciating pain in your shoulder or if the pain is due to an injury, it is advisable to see a doctor right away. If you feel mild pain in your shoulder, it can be cured by taking over-the-counter NSAIDs or making some lifestyle changes. Sometimes, mild stretching exercises can also help reduce pain. However, if your pain does not go away on its own, consult your doctor.

A sneak peek into other signs that make it crucial to see a specialist right away

  • Not able to move your shoulder
  • Feeling numbness or weakness in your arm
  • Swelling in your shoulder

Overlooking these warning signs can lead to more serious shoulder issues.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

It is imperative to figure out the cause to get an effective treatment.Have an insight into the prevalent causes of shoulder pain:

 Fracture

Shoulder pain can be the result of fracture, which is often caused by motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries in younger patients or falls from great heights in older ones. Shoulder fractures involve collar bone, upper arm bone, and shoulder blade, and can cause swelling and bruising. A broken collarbone results in sagging of your shoulder and makes it impossible to lift.  

Arthritis

Shoulder pain can be caused by osteoarthritis that develops gradually. It causes pain that gets worse over time. Osteoarthritis can be the result of injuries or wear and tear. Common symptoms include stiffness, pain, and swelling. Your shoulder movement may also get restricted painfully due to the tightening of the soft tissues of the joint.

Dislocation

If you pull your shoulder too hard, there is a possibility that the top of your arm may come out of its socket. The signs of shoulder dislocation include pain, weakness, swelling, and numbness. If you feel a bump on your shoulder top, your collarbone has dislocated. 

Tendon tear

Ageing, overuse or wear and tear can lead to the tearing of tendons. Sometimes, the tearing is severe enough to pull the tendon away from its attachment to the bone.

Cartilage Tear

If you feel pain in your shoulder while grabbing something overhead, there is a possibility of injury to the cartilage that surrounds the rim of your shoulder joint. 

Frozen Shoulder

This condition restricts the movement of your joint. If you are not using your shoulder enough due to pain or surgery, there are chances of building up adhesions in the joint. This will result in shoulder freezing.

Bursitis

Overusing your shoulder might lead to inflammation of the bursa between the rotator cuff and part of your shoulder blade. This condition is called bursitis which can cause difficulty in performing even the simple chores such as combing your hair. Rotator cuff tearing
 Rotator cuff tearing is more likely to occur because of an injury. If you feel sudden pain from an injury, consult a doctor as you might need surgery to fix the issue. However, if there is no severe pain, anti-inflammatory medications and rest can work for you. 

Treatment for shoulder pain

Lifestyle changes and medications

It involves rest and physical therapy to improve flexibility. You should avoid overusing your shoulder to prevent pain. Your doctor might prescribe some medications to reduce swelling and pain. They might also recommend injections or steroids to relieve pain.

Surgery

Shoulder problems such as dislocation or tears might need surgery.Surgery is recommended to remove or repair the torn tissues. If you have had shoulder surgery, you should follow post-care instructions carefully.

Do you need to see a doctor?

If you feel intense pain in your shoulder due to an injury, seek medical care immediately. If you are looking for Shoulder Pain Treatment in Chandigarh, schedule an appointment with Dr Manu Mengi.

Book an appointment with Dr Manu Mengi

Dr. Manu Mengi follows a comprehensive approach to address the issue which includes thoroughly evaluating the medical history, conducting a complete examination, and running specific tests to determine the cause. Being the Best Orthopaedist in Chandigarh, Dr. Manu Mengi works diligently to provide his patients with a customized treatment plan. Don’t let shoulder pain prevent you from living your life. Visit Dr. Manu Mengi today. 

November 16, 2023 / by Manu

Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Neck pain is a common ailment that can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It can be a debilitating condition that interferes with daily life, causing discomfort and reducing quality of life. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and various treatment options for neck pain to provide a better understanding of this prevalent issue.

Causes of Neck Pain

Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from muscle strain to more serious underlying conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

  1. Muscle Strain: One of the leading causes of neck pain is muscle strain. Poor posture, overexertion, or awkward sleeping positions can lead to muscle tension in the neck, resulting in pain and discomfort.
  2. Poor Ergonomics: Prolonged periods of sitting or working at a computer with improper ergonomics can strain the neck muscles, leading to pain and stiffness.
  3. Trauma and Injury: Neck pain can also result from accidents, such as car crashes or falls, where the neck is subjected to sudden and forceful movements.
  4. Degenerative Conditions: Conditions like osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease can cause gradual wear and tear of the cervical spine, leading to chronic neck pain.
  5. Herniated Discs: A herniated or bulging disc in the cervical spine can press on nerves, causing radiating neck pain and discomfort.
  6. Pinched Nerves: Nerves in the neck can become pinched or compressed, causing shooting pain, tingling, and numbness in the neck and upper extremities.

Common Symptoms of Neck Pain

The symptoms of neck pain can vary in intensity and duration, depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:

  1. Stiffness: Individuals with neck pain often experience stiffness in the neck, making it difficult to turn or move their head.
  2. Pain: Neck pain can range from a dull, aching discomfort to sharp, shooting pains, depending on the severity and cause of the pain.
  3. Headaches: Neck pain is frequently associated with tension headaches, which can radiate from the neck to the base of the skull and forehead.
  4. Numbness and Tingling: Pinched nerves or herniated discs may cause numbness or tingling sensations in the neck and down the arms.
  5. Limited Range of Motion: Neck pain can restrict the ability to turn or tilt the head, impacting daily activities.

Treatment Options for Neck Pain

The appropriate treatment for neck pain depends on the underlying cause, severity, and the patient’s individual needs. Here are some common treatment options:

  1. Rest and Lifestyle Modifications: In cases of mild neck pain, resting the neck and making lifestyle modifications, such as improving ergonomics and maintaining good posture, may be sufficient.
  2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy involves exercises and techniques to strengthen neck muscles and improve flexibility. It can be highly effective in treating neck pain, especially when related to muscle strain.
  3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can provide temporary relief from neck pain. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications or muscle relaxants.
  4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the neck can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Cold packs are generally recommended for acute pain, while heat therapy is better for chronic pain.
  5. Neck Braces or Collars: In certain situations, a neck brace or collar may be prescribed to provide support and limit neck movement during the healing process.
  6. Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be recommended for individuals with severe neck pain or nerve compression. These injections can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
  7. Surgery: Surgery is typically considered a last resort for neck pain and is only recommended in cases of severe herniated discs, spinal instability, or other structural issues.

Prevention and Maintenance

Preventing neck pain is often more manageable than treating it. Some preventive measures include:

  1. Maintaining Good Posture: Be mindful of your posture while sitting, standing, and using electronic devices. Avoid craning your neck forward or slouching.
  2. Ergonomic Workstation: Set up an ergonomic workstation with an adjustable chair, monitor, and keyboard to reduce strain during work or study.
  3. Regular Exercise: Strengthening the neck and upper back muscles through regular exercise can help prevent neck pain.
  4. Stretching: Incorporate neck and shoulder stretches into your daily routine to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.

Conclusion

Neck pain is a widespread condition with various causes and symptoms. Understanding the potential causes and available treatment options is essential for managing and alleviating neck pain. If you are experiencing persistent or severe neck pain, it is advisable to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Adopting preventive measures and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing neck pain and enjoy a pain-free life.

October 21, 2023 / by Manu

Golfer’s Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Introduction

Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition can afflict not only golfers but anyone who repeatedly performs gripping or wrist-flexing motions. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for golfer’s elbow.

Causes of Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow typically develops due to repetitive stress on the forearm muscles and tendons. The primary causes include:

  1. Repetitive Motion: Activities that involve repetitive wrist flexion and gripping, such as golf swings, tennis strokes, weightlifting, and even activities like typing or using a computer mouse, can lead to golfer’s elbow over time.
  2. Overuse: Engaging in these activities excessively or without proper technique can strain the tendons, leading to microtears and inflammation at the medial epicondyle (the bony bump on the inner side of the elbow).
  3. Age: As individuals age, their tendons become less flexible and more susceptible to injury, making older adults more prone to golfer’s elbow.

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

The most common symptoms of golfer’s elbow include:

  1. Pain: Persistent pain on the inner side of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm.
  2. Weakness: Weakness in the affected arm, particularly when gripping or lifting objects.
  3. Stiffness: Stiffness and limited range of motion in the elbow joint.
  4. Tenderness: Tenderness or swelling at the site of the injury, often exacerbated by pressing on the inner elbow.

Treatment Options

  1. Rest and Activity Modification: The first step in treating golfer’s elbow is to rest the affected arm and avoid activities that worsen the pain. This may involve modifying or temporarily discontinuing sports or repetitive tasks.
  2. Ice and Compression: Applying ice and using compression can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Use a cold pack for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
  3. Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation when used under a doctor’s guidance.
  4. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. They may also employ techniques such as ultrasound or massage to promote healing.
  5. Bracing: Wearing a brace or splint can provide support and limit stress on the injured tendons, aiding in the healing process.
  6. Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain.
  7. Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area.
  8. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of a patient’s own platelets into the injured area to promote tissue repair.

Preventive Measures

Preventing golfer’s elbow primarily involves taking steps to reduce the risk of overuse and strain:

  1. Proper Technique: Whether it’s a sport or a work-related task, ensure you use proper form and technique to avoid placing excessive stress on the elbow.
  2. Warm-Up: Always warm up before engaging in activities that involve repetitive arm movements.
  3. Strength and Flexibility Exercises: Incorporate exercises that target forearm strength and flexibility into your fitness routine.
  4. Ergonomics: If your job involves repetitive tasks, consider ergonomic adjustments to reduce strain, such as using an ergonomic keyboard and chair.
  5. Rest and Recovery: Allow your body sufficient time to recover between strenuous activities.

Conclusion

Golfer’s elbow is a common condition that can cause discomfort and limit your ability to perform daily tasks and recreational activities. By understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing golfer’s elbow. If you do experience symptoms, seeking prompt treatment and following a rehabilitation plan can help you recover and regain full functionality in your elbow. Always consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.

October 7, 2023 / by Manu

Understanding Low Back Pain: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Low back pain is a common ailment that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It can range from a dull, nagging discomfort to severe, debilitating pain, greatly impacting one’s quality of life. In this article, we will delve into the causes, prevention strategies, and treatment options for low back pain.

Causes of Low Back Pain

  1. Muscle Strain: One of the leading causes of low back pain is muscle strain. This can result from improper lifting, sudden movements, or poor posture over an extended period. Weak back and abdominal muscles can exacerbate this issue.
  2. Herniated Discs: Discs in the spine act as cushions between the vertebrae. When a disc herniates or ruptures, it can press on nearby nerves, causing intense pain.
  3. Spinal Stenosis: This condition narrows the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It commonly occurs as a result of ageing.
  4. Osteoarthritis: The breakdown of cartilage in the spine can lead to osteoarthritis, causing pain and stiffness in the lower back.
  5. Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine, known as scoliosis, can result in back pain, especially in severe cases.
  6. Injuries: Traumatic injuries such as falls, car accidents, or sports-related incidents can cause low back pain, sometimes leading to chronic conditions.

Prevention Strategies

  1. Maintain Proper Posture: Good posture is crucial in preventing low back pain. Practice sitting and standing with your spine in a neutral position, and use ergonomic furniture if necessary.
  2. Exercise Regularly: Engaging in a balanced exercise routine that includes strengthening the core and back muscles can provide essential support for the spine.
  3. Lift Safely: When lifting heavy objects, use your legs and not your back to avoid straining the muscles. Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting while lifting.
  4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can strain the lower back. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help maintain an appropriate weight.
  5. Quit Smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow to the spine, impairing its ability to heal and repair itself. Quitting smoking can benefit overall spinal health.
  6. Stretch and Warm-Up: Before engaging in physical activities or exercises, it’s essential to warm up and stretch to prevent muscle strain.

Treatment Options

  1. Rest: In many cases, low back pain can be alleviated by giving the affected muscles and tissues time to heal. Short-term rest is often recommended, followed by gradual reengagement in physical activities.
  2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapists can design exercises and stretches to strengthen the back and improve flexibility. They can also provide techniques for better posture.
  3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or prescription medications can help manage pain and inflammation associated with low back pain.
  4. Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
  5. Surgery: Surgical intervention is considered only when conservative treatments fail or when there is a structural issue like a herniated disc that requires correction.
  6. Alternative Therapies: Options such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy may offer relief for some individuals.

Low back pain is a widespread condition that can affect anyone, but understanding its causes, preventive measures, and treatment options can help manage and reduce its impact on your life. Remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, good posture, and a balanced diet, is key to preventing low back pain. If you do experience persistent or severe pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs

September 25, 2023 / by Manu