Workplace injuries are more common than many realise, and they frequently extend beyond surface scrapes or minor strains.
Musculoskeletal disorders are a prominent source of medical absence and decreased productivity, particularly in Singapore, where desk-bound jobs, construction activities, logistics, and healthcare roles are prevalent. While some minor injuries may heal with rest or rehabilitation, others necessitate more professional care. Consulting an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore is essential for timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and prevention of long-term complications.
1. Repetitive Strain Injuries from Desk Jobs
Office environments may appear low-risk, but long hours of sitting, poor posture, and constant typing can lead to chronic issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, neck stiffness, and lower back pain. These repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) develop gradually and often go untreated until they affect daily function. An ortho may conduct imaging scans and physical assessments to confirm the diagnosis. Treatments may involve splinting, ergonomic corrections, or, in severe cases, surgical decompression of nerves or tendons. RSIs can become debilitating and limit career mobility without early intervention.
2. Acute Trauma from Falls and Accidents
Slips, trips, and falls are frequent in industries like construction, manufacturing, and transport. These accidents can lead to fractures, dislocations, and ligament tears, which often require surgical attention. An orthopaedic surgeon would assess whether conservative management is possible or if the injury necessitates procedures such as internal fixation or arthroscopic repair. Immediate consultation ensures the injury heals correctly and reduces the risk of complications like post-traumatic arthritis or misaligned healing.
3. Lower Limb Overuse in Manual Labour
Workers in logistics, healthcare, and food service are constantly on their feet, often carrying heavy loads or navigating tight spaces. Overuse injuries such as knee meniscus tears, ankle instability, and plantar fasciitis are common among this group. These injuries are often underestimated until pain becomes chronic or mobility is impaired. An ortho in Singapore can evaluate joint function and stability and recommend targeted therapies, injections, or surgical corrections depending on the severity of wear and tear.
4. Shoulder Injuries in Physically Demanding Roles
Repetitive overhead lifting or extended reach tasks, especially in maintenance, delivery services, and healthcare, place workers at risk of rotator cuff injuries or shoulder impingement syndromes. These injuries can severely restrict upper limb function, especially when left untreated. Orthopaedic surgeons use diagnostic tools like MRI and ultrasound to confirm tendon damage or inflammation. Management ranges from corticosteroid injections to minimally invasive arthroscopic repair, especially in tears or impingements unresponsive to physiotherapy.
ALSO READ: Guide to Understanding and Managing Shoulder Injuries
5. Chronic Back Problems from Poor Lifting Techniques
Poor manual handling, especially in jobs involving frequent lifting or bending, can cause or exacerbate spinal issues. Herniated discs, lumbar strain, and spondylosis are not uncommon among warehouse, cleaning, and transport staff. A referral to an orthopaedic surgeon becomes necessary when conservative therapy fails to alleviate symptoms such as radiating leg pain or numbness. Surgeons can advise on interventional treatments like nerve blocks or spinal surgery in cases of nerve compression or degenerative disc disease.
6. Post-Injury Complications and Delayed Recovery
Delayed healing, persistent swelling, or reduced range of motion following an initial workplace injury are red flags. These signs often indicate incomplete recovery or underlying complications such as ligament instability, joint degeneration, or unhealed fractures. An experienced ortho provides a more advanced layer of care, often working in tandem with physiotherapists or occupational health specialists. Timely referrals reduce downtime and help avoid long-term disability.
Conclusion
Workplace injuries are not always dramatic, but the long-term effects on function and employability can be severe. Whether it is a repetitive strain from office work or a traumatic fracture from a construction site, early intervention is key. Consulting an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore enables proper diagnosis and treatment, resulting in healing and a sustainable return to work.
Don’t let injury sideline your future. Contact Dr Bryan Tan today.