Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Omer Sheriff, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Fellowship in Joint Replacement
Years of Experience: 24+ Years
Last Reviewed: October 2026
Musculoskeletal problems can affect how a person walks, works, exercises and carries out everyday activities. Persistent joint pain, fractures, sports injuries and age-related changes in the bones and joints may require assessment by an orthopaedic surgeon. Understanding the available treatment options can help patients make informed decisions about their care.
When looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Tamil Nadu, patients may want to understand the doctor’s qualifications, experience, area of practice, available treatment options and the hospital facilities required for their condition. The appropriate choice depends on the medical problem, the complexity of treatment and the patient’s individual needs.
Dr. Omer Sheriff is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Chennai whose professional qualifications and areas of practice include orthopaedics, trauma care and joint replacement. This article explains common orthopaedic conditions, the assessment process and the treatment options patients may discuss with an orthopaedic specialist.
What Does an Orthopedic Surgeon Treat?
Orthopaedic surgery is a medical specialty concerned with conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and related structures. Treatment may involve medication, activity modification, physiotherapy, supportive devices or surgery, depending on the diagnosis.
An orthopaedic surgeon may assess and manage conditions such as:
- Knee and hip osteoarthritis
- Joint pain, stiffness and restricted movement
- Fractures and other traumatic injuries
- Ligament and cartilage injuries
- Sports-related musculoskeletal problems
- Certain spinal and limb conditions
- Selected paediatric orthopaedic conditions
- Conditions requiring joint replacement or fracture fixation
Not every orthopaedic condition requires surgery. The treatment plan depends on the examination findings, the severity of the condition, the patient’s general health and the expected benefits and risks of available options.
When Should You Consult an Orthopedic Surgeon?
Joint or bone pain that persists, returns frequently or interferes with everyday activities may require medical evaluation. Early assessment can help identify the underlying problem and determine whether conservative treatment or a surgical opinion is appropriate.
Consider consulting an orthopaedic doctor if you experience:
- Persistent knee, hip or other joint pain
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or bearing weight
- Recurrent joint swelling or stiffness
- Pain following a sports injury or accident
- Restricted movement that affects daily activities
- Suspected fractures or deformities
- Ongoing symptoms despite initial treatment
Sudden severe pain, an obvious deformity, an open fracture or an inability to bear weight after an injury requires urgent medical attention. A hot, swollen joint accompanied by fever also needs prompt assessment.
Common Orthopaedic Conditions and Their Treatment Options
1. Knee Pain and Osteoarthritis
Knee pain can develop because of osteoarthritis, injuries, inflammation or problems involving the surrounding soft tissues. Symptoms may include pain while walking, stiffness after rest, swelling and difficulty bending the knee.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Options may include appropriate exercise, physiotherapy, weight management where indicated, medication and activity modification. If symptoms remain substantial despite suitable non-surgical treatment, an orthopaedic surgeon may discuss whether a procedure is appropriate.
2. Hip Pain and Hip Joint Conditions
Hip pain may arise from osteoarthritis, fractures, inflammation or other conditions affecting the joint and surrounding tissues. Symptoms can include groin pain, stiffness, reduced walking ability and difficulty performing routine movements.
The initial assessment may include a review of symptoms, physical examination and imaging when indicated. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve rehabilitation, medication or surgery.
Hip replacement may be considered for selected patients with advanced joint damage and persistent symptoms that significantly affect daily activities despite appropriate non-surgical management.
3. Fractures and Trauma
Fractures may occur following road accidents, falls, sports injuries or relatively minor trauma in people with weakened bones. Treatment depends on the location and pattern of the fracture, displacement, damage to surrounding tissues and the patient’s overall health.
Some fractures can be managed with immobilisation and follow-up. Others may require surgical fixation using appropriate implants or other techniques.
After a fracture, follow-up appointments help assess healing and determine when movement, weight-bearing and rehabilitation can progress safely.
4. Sports Injuries and Ligament Problems
Sports injuries may involve ligaments, tendons, cartilage or bones. Symptoms can include swelling, pain, instability and difficulty returning to normal activity.
Assessment may involve a physical examination and imaging when necessary. Depending on the injury, treatment may include rest from aggravating activities, rehabilitation, supportive devices or surgery.
The decision to operate depends on the injury, joint stability, functional requirements and response to non-surgical treatment. Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery.
5. Bone Health and Osteoporosis-Related Fractures
Osteoporosis reduces bone strength and increases the risk of fractures. It may remain unnoticed until a fracture occurs, particularly in older adults.
People with risk factors for osteoporosis should discuss appropriate evaluation with a healthcare professional. Management may include fall prevention, suitable physical activity, adequate nutrition and prescribed medication when indicated.
Fractures associated with osteoporosis require treatment based on the affected bone, the type of injury and the patient’s medical condition.
What Orthopaedic Treatments May Be Available?
The appropriate treatment depends on the diagnosis and the expected benefits and risks for the individual patient.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment may be suitable for many musculoskeletal conditions. It can include:
- Medicines prescribed according to the diagnosis and medical history
- Physiotherapy and condition-specific exercises
- Temporary activity modification
- Braces, splints or other supportive devices when appropriate
- Weight management and measures to support bone health
- Regular review to assess progress
Patients should not start or change medication without appropriate medical advice, particularly when they have other medical conditions or take multiple medicines.
Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. Knee and hip replacement may be considered when joint disease causes substantial pain and functional limitation and non-surgical options no longer provide adequate relief.
Before recommending surgery, the surgeon considers the patient’s symptoms, examination findings, imaging, general health, treatment history and expectations.
Patients should discuss the proposed procedure, possible complications, implant considerations, rehabilitation requirements and expected limitations during recovery.
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Robotic-assisted systems may help surgeons plan and perform selected knee replacement procedures using information obtained during preoperative assessment and, depending on the system, during surgery.
The technology used varies by hospital and procedure. Robotic assistance does not eliminate surgical risks or guarantee a particular outcome. Suitability depends on the patient’s condition, the surgeon’s assessment and the available facilities.
Arthroscopy and Other Surgical Procedures
Arthroscopy uses a small camera and specialised instruments to examine or treat selected problems inside a joint. It may be considered for certain conditions, including specific ligament or cartilage injuries.
It is not necessary or beneficial for every person with joint pain or osteoarthritis. The decision depends on the underlying problem and the available evidence for the proposed procedure.
Fracture fixation and other reconstructive procedures may also be required for selected injuries or structural abnormalities.
How to Choose an Orthopedic Surgeon in Tamil Nadu
Choosing an orthopaedic surgeon involves understanding whether the doctor’s training and practice are appropriate for the condition being treated. Patients can consider the following points when arranging a consultation.
Check Medical Qualifications
Review the doctor’s medical qualifications, specialist training and registration details. These help establish the doctor’s professional background and eligibility to practise.
Understand the Doctor’s Area of Practice
Orthopaedics includes several areas, such as joint replacement, trauma care, sports injuries and spinal conditions. Ask whether the doctor regularly evaluates and treats the particular condition for which you need care.
Discuss Treatment Alternatives
A consultation should provide an opportunity to understand the diagnosis, the available treatment options and why a particular approach is being considered. Surgery should be recommended based on clinical indications rather than as a routine response to every musculoskeletal problem.
Ask About Risks and Recovery
Before a procedure, discuss potential complications, anaesthesia, rehabilitation, expected restrictions and follow-up requirements. Recovery varies according to the procedure, the patient’s health and the nature of the condition.
Consider Hospital and Rehabilitation Arrangements
Depending on the treatment required, patients may need imaging, emergency support, inpatient care, physiotherapy or postoperative monitoring. Ask which facilities are available and how follow-up care will be arranged.
Understand the Practical Arrangements
Location, appointment availability, accessibility and the ability to attend follow-up visits may also influence treatment planning, especially for patients travelling from other districts in Tamil Nadu.
Meet Dr. Omer Sheriff
Dr. Omer Sheriff is an orthopaedic surgeon practising in Chennai. His website lists the following professional qualifications and areas of practice:
- Medical qualifications: MBBS, D.Ortho, MS Orthopaedics and Fellowship in Joint Replacement, as listed on his professional website.
- Experience: More than 24 years, as stated on his website.
- Areas of practice: Orthopaedics, trauma care, knee and hip conditions, and joint replacement surgery.
- Clinical focus: Assessment of musculoskeletal conditions and discussion of suitable non-surgical or surgical treatment options.
Patients seeking an orthopaedic consultation can discuss their symptoms, previous treatment, medical history and functional limitations with the doctor. The assessment helps determine whether further investigations, conservative treatment or a surgical opinion may be appropriate.
What to Expect During an Orthopaedic Consultation
An orthopaedic consultation usually begins with a discussion of the patient’s symptoms, when they started, what makes them worse and how they affect daily activities. The doctor may ask about previous injuries, operations, medicines and other medical conditions.
A physical examination helps assess movement, tenderness, swelling, joint stability and other relevant findings. X-rays or additional investigations may be recommended when clinically indicated.
After evaluating the available information, the doctor discusses the likely diagnosis and treatment options. These may include monitoring, rehabilitation, medication or surgery, depending on the condition.
Patients should feel able to ask questions and understand the expected benefits, risks and limitations of the recommended treatment before making a decision.
Conclusion
Orthopaedic conditions can affect mobility, independence and everyday activities, but the appropriate management varies from person to person. A clinical assessment helps identify the cause of symptoms and determine whether medication, physiotherapy, monitoring or surgery is indicated.
When considering an orthopedic surgeon in Tamil Nadu, patients should review relevant qualifications, understand the doctor’s area of practice and discuss the available treatment options, risks and follow-up requirements. Dr. Omer Sheriff’s professional website provides information about his qualifications and orthopaedic practice in Chennai.
