Medically reviewed by Dr. L. Bharath , Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Bharath Orthopaedics
Bone, joint and muscle problems can affect people at different stages of life. Knee pain while walking, back discomfort after sitting, shoulder stiffness, ankle injuries and difficulty moving a joint are some of the concerns that may require an orthopaedic assessment. These symptoms can develop gradually due to age-related changes or occur suddenly following an injury or accident.
If you are looking for an orthopedics doctor in Purasaiwakkam, it is important to understand the cause of your symptoms before deciding on treatment. An orthopaedic doctor evaluates conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and the spine. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve medication, physiotherapy, activity modification, rehabilitation or surgery.
Dr. Bharath Loganathan is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Chennai. His clinical practice includes the assessment and management of knee and hip conditions, joint replacement procedures, fractures, sports-related injuries and other musculoskeletal problems. Patients can consult at the listed Purasaiwakkam locations to discuss their symptoms and available treatment options.
About Dr. Bharath Loganathan – Orthopaedic Surgeon in Chennai
Dr. Bharath Loganathan, also known as Dr. L. Bharath, is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Chennai with over 20 years of clinical experience. His clinical practice includes the evaluation and management of knee and hip conditions, joint replacement procedures, revision joint replacement and other orthopaedic problems.
His academic qualifications include:
- MBBS from Stanley Medical College, Chennai.
- MS in Orthopaedic Surgery from Grant Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai.
- MRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
His additional training includes the Ranawat Adult Joint Reconstruction Fellowship and the Rothman Ranawat Travel Fellowship. He has also undertaken further training in hip and knee joint replacement surgery.
His professional experience includes work at Shalby Hospitals in Ahmedabad and clinical practice in Chennai.
His areas of clinical practice include:
- Total and partial knee replacement.
- Total hip replacement.
- Revision knee and hip replacement.
- Arthroscopy procedures.
- Assessment of sports-related injuries.
- Orthopaedic trauma management.
- Spine-related conditions and injuries.
- Deformity correction.
Treatment recommendations are based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, clinical examination and relevant investigation findings.
What Does an Orthopaedic Doctor Treat?
An orthopaedic doctor evaluates problems affecting the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and related structures. These conditions may cause pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness or difficulty with movement.
Common conditions assessed by an orthopaedic doctor include:
1. Knee Pain and Joint Problems
Knee pain may develop due to osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, meniscus damage, inflammation or other conditions. Patients may experience discomfort while walking, climbing stairs, bending the knee or standing for long periods.
2. Hip Pain
Hip discomfort can be associated with arthritis, joint damage, injuries or conditions affecting nearby muscles and tendons. Pain may occur around the groin, outer hip or upper thigh and can interfere with walking and daily activities.
3. Back and Neck Pain
Back and neck discomfort may arise from muscle strain, disc-related conditions, age-related spinal changes or other causes. Persistent symptoms, restricted movement or pain accompanied by weakness or numbness may require medical evaluation.
4. Shoulder and Elbow Problems
Shoulder stiffness, tendon injuries, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and other conditions can affect arm movement. Patients may notice difficulty lifting objects, reaching overhead or carrying out routine tasks.
5. Foot and Ankle Conditions
Ankle sprains, heel pain, tendon problems and certain foot deformities can affect walking and balance. Treatment depends on the affected structures and the severity of the condition.
6. Fractures and Orthopaedic Injuries
Falls, road accidents and sports injuries can cause fractures or damage to ligaments and other tissues. The required treatment depends on the type of injury, its location and the stability of the affected area.
When Should You Consult an Orthopaedic Doctor?
Not every episode of body or joint pain requires specialist treatment. However, persistent symptoms, repeated injuries or difficulty performing everyday activities should not be ignored.
Consider arranging an orthopaedic assessment if you experience:
- Joint pain that continues or repeatedly returns.
- Swelling around the knee, ankle, shoulder or another joint.
- Stiffness that restricts normal movement.
- Difficulty walking, standing or climbing stairs.
- Back or neck pain that affects daily activities.
- Repeated joint injuries or a feeling of instability.
- Pain that does not improve with the treatment already recommended.
Seek prompt medical attention after a serious injury, suspected fracture, sudden inability to bear weight or a joint that becomes hot and swollen with fever. New or worsening limb weakness, numbness or loss of bladder or bowel control with back pain also requires urgent assessment.
What Causes Bone, Joint and Muscle Problems?
Musculoskeletal symptoms can develop for several reasons. Identifying the underlying cause is important because different conditions may require different treatment approaches.
Some common causes include:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition involving changes to the cartilage and other joint structures. It commonly affects the knees, hips and hands and may cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement.
Sports and Physical Injuries
Sudden twisting movements, falls, direct impact or repetitive physical activity can injure ligaments, tendons, muscles and bones. The extent of injury determines the treatment required.
Age-Related Changes
Changes in bone strength, cartilage, muscles and spinal structures can occur with ageing. These changes may contribute to reduced flexibility, stiffness and discomfort.
Inflammatory Joint Conditions
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation, pain and swelling in the joints. Early diagnosis and appropriate medical management are important.
Postural and Repetitive Strain
Prolonged sitting, repeated movements and certain work-related activities may contribute to muscle or joint discomfort. The cause should be assessed rather than assuming that posture is the only reason for pain.
Accidents and Fractures
Trauma from road accidents, falls or other incidents can cause fractures and soft-tissue injuries. Some injuries require immediate treatment, while others may need further assessment and rehabilitation.
How Does an Orthopaedic Doctor Diagnose a Condition?
The first step is to understand the patient’s symptoms and examine the affected area. The doctor may recommend investigations when additional information is needed to confirm a diagnosis or plan treatment.
Medical History
The doctor asks about when the symptoms began, the location of pain, previous injuries, existing medical conditions and treatments already tried.
Physical Examination
The affected area may be examined for tenderness, swelling, movement, strength, stability and alignment. The doctor may also assess walking pattern and other functional movements.
Imaging Tests
X-rays are commonly used to examine bones, fractures, joint spaces and alignment. MRI, CT scans or ultrasound may be recommended when more detailed information about bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons or other structures is needed.
Other Investigations
Blood tests or additional investigations may be suggested when the symptoms indicate an inflammatory condition, infection or another medical concern.
Not every patient needs every investigation. The choice depends on the symptoms and findings during the consultation.
What Treatment Options are Available for Orthopaedic Problems?
Treatment depends on the condition, its severity, the patient’s general health and the effect of symptoms on daily activities. Surgery is not necessary for every orthopaedic problem.
Medication
Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe medicines to manage pain, inflammation or other symptoms. Patients should follow the prescribed dosage and discuss possible side effects.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy may help improve movement, muscle strength, flexibility and functional ability. The exercises are selected according to the condition and the patient’s physical capacity.
Activity Modification
Temporary changes to certain activities may help reduce strain on an affected joint or muscle. The doctor or physiotherapist can explain which movements should be limited and when normal activities can be resumed.
Supportive Devices
Some patients may benefit from braces, walking aids or other supportive devices. Their use depends on the affected area and the purpose of support.
Injection-Based Treatments
In selected cases, injections may be discussed as part of symptom management. Their suitability depends on the diagnosis, expected benefits and potential risks.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be considered when there is significant structural damage, an injury requiring operative management or a condition that has not responded adequately to suitable non-surgical treatment. The procedure depends on the individual diagnosis.
When May Orthopaedic Surgery Be Required?
The need for surgery is determined after reviewing the patient’s symptoms, examination findings, investigations and response to other treatments.
Depending on the condition, surgical procedures may include:
- Knee replacement for selected cases of advanced knee joint damage.
- Hip replacement for certain conditions causing significant hip joint damage.
- Arthroscopy for selected joint and soft-tissue problems.
- Fracture fixation when a broken bone requires surgical stabilisation.
- Ligament reconstruction for certain significant ligament injuries.
- Spine procedures for selected spinal conditions.
The doctor should explain why a procedure is being considered, what alternatives are available, the potential risks and what recovery may involve.
What Should You Bring to Your First Orthopaedic Consultation?
Preparing for a consultation can help the doctor understand your condition and previous treatment.
If available, bring:
- Previous X-rays, MRI scans or CT reports.
- Medical records related to the current problem.
- Details of medicines you are taking.
- Reports of previous surgeries or injuries.
- Information about treatments
Orthopaedic Consultation Locations in Purasaiwakkam
Bharath Orthopaedics lists the following consultation locations in Purasaiwakkam, Chennai:
Sri Singhvi Health Centre
TVH Lumbini Square, No. 127, Bricklin Road, Purasaiwakkam, Chennai – 600007.
Amrit Medical Centre
No. 73/28, Dr. Alagappa Road, Purasaiwakkam, Chennai – 600084.
For consultation availability and appointment details, patients can contact the listed clinic number:
044 4799 2728
Please confirm the doctor’s availability and consultation location before visiting.