Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Founder & Owner, MAHI Multispeciality Hospitals, Kilpauk, Chennai.
Last medically reviewed: October 2026

Bone, joint and muscle problems can affect people in different ways. A knee condition may make it difficult to climb stairs, a hip problem may change the way someone walks, and a sports injury may limit movement for weeks or longer. The right treatment depends on what is causing the symptoms and how the condition affects daily life.

An orthopaedic surgeon assesses conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Treatment may involve non-surgical care, rehabilitation or an operation when the clinical findings support that approach.

For people searching for an orthopedic surgeon in Tamil Nadu, understanding the type of condition, the doctor’s relevant qualifications and the available treatment options can help make a consultation more productive. No single treatment is appropriate for every patient, and surgery should be considered only after an individual assessment.

Which Conditions are Managed by Orthopaedic Surgeons?

Orthopaedic care covers a range of conditions, from injuries that need short-term support to long-standing joint problems that affect mobility.

Common reasons for an orthopaedic assessment include:

• Knee and hip osteoarthritis.

• Persistent joint pain and stiffness.

• Fractures and other bone injuries.

• Ligament and meniscus injuries.

• Shoulder tendon problems and joint instability.

• Avascular necrosis of the hip.

• Sports-related injuries.

• Certain bone, joint and movement disorders.

• Joint damage that may require replacement or reconstructive surgery.

The symptoms of different conditions can overlap. For example, pain around the hip may come from the hip joint itself or from the lower back. A clinical examination helps determine whether further investigations or specialist treatment are needed.

Understanding the Main Areas of Orthopaedic Care

Orthopaedics includes several areas of practice. A patient’s needs and diagnosis help determine which type of expertise may be relevant.

Joint Replacement and Arthroplasty

Joint replacement may be considered when severe joint damage causes persistent pain and limits everyday activities. Hip and knee replacement are common examples. Revision surgery may be needed in selected cases when an existing implant develops a problem.

The decision depends on the cause and extent of joint damage, previous treatment, overall health and the likely balance of benefits and risks.

Sports Injuries and Arthroscopy

Sports injuries may involve ligaments, cartilage, tendons or other structures. Depending on the injury, treatment may include rehabilitation, activity modification or surgery. Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that uses a camera and specialised instruments to assess or treat certain joint problems.

Not every sports injury requires an operation. Treatment should be based on the injury’s severity, functional limitations and the patient’s activity needs.

Fracture and Trauma Care

Fractures vary in location, severity and complexity. Some can be managed with immobilisation, while others require surgical fixation. The treatment plan depends on factors such as fracture alignment, stability, soft-tissue injury and the patient’s overall condition.

Suspected fractures after significant injury should be assessed promptly.

Other Musculoskeletal Conditions

Orthopaedic practice also includes selected shoulder, elbow, wrist, ankle and foot conditions. Some doctors focus on particular areas, while others manage a broader range of musculoskeletal problems. Patients should check whether the doctor’s training and clinical practice are relevant to their specific diagnosis.

How to Decide Whether You Need an Orthopaedic Assessment

It can be tempting to ignore recurring discomfort or rely on pain relief for an extended period. However, persistent symptoms deserve attention, particularly when they affect normal movement.

Consider seeking medical advice if you experience:

• Pain that continues or repeatedly returns.

• Difficulty walking or bearing weight.

• Swelling, stiffness or reduced movement around a joint.

• Symptoms that interfere with sleep, work or daily activities.

• An injury that is not improving as expected.

• Increasing weakness, instability or changes in the way you walk.

A hot, swollen joint accompanied by fever, a major injury with visible deformity, or sudden inability to bear weight may require urgent assessment. Sudden or progressive weakness or numbness should also be evaluated promptly.

These symptoms do not automatically indicate a need for surgery. They are reasons to establish the cause and discuss appropriate care.

What Happens During an Orthopaedic Consultation?

An assessment generally begins with a discussion of symptoms, medical history and previous treatment. The doctor may ask when the problem started, which activities aggravate it, whether there has been an injury and how the symptoms affect daily life.

A physical examination may assess movement, strength, tenderness, alignment and joint stability. Depending on the findings, the doctor may recommend imaging or other investigations.

Reviewing Reports and Investigations

X-rays can help assess fractures, bone alignment and certain joint changes. MRI or other investigations may be useful when more detailed information is needed. The choice of test depends on the suspected condition and the findings from the consultation.

Discussing the Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

After reviewing the available information, the doctor should explain the likely diagnosis, the purpose of any further tests and the treatment options. Patients should be able to ask questions and understand why a particular approach is being considered.

Treatment Options: From Rehabilitation to Surgery

Treatment is selected according to the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, physical function and overall health. Where appropriate, non-surgical treatment may be considered before an operation.

Medication and Activity Modification

Medication may help manage pain or inflammation in selected conditions. The choice should take account of existing medical problems, other medicines and possible side effects. Activity changes may also help reduce strain on an affected joint while the condition is being treated.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy may help improve movement, strength, balance and everyday function. A rehabilitation programme should be adapted to the patient’s diagnosis and abilities. Exercises that are suitable for one condition may not be appropriate for another.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be discussed when the clinical findings suggest that an operation could offer a meaningful benefit. Depending on the condition, this may involve fracture fixation, arthroscopy, ligament reconstruction, joint replacement or revision surgery.

Before making a decision, patients should understand the reason for surgery, available alternatives, potential complications, expected recovery and follow-up requirements. A second opinion may be useful when a patient remains uncertain about a major or elective procedure.

What to Consider Before Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement is a significant decision. It may help selected patients with advanced joint damage, but it is not suitable for everyone with joint pain.

Before proceeding, discuss the following with the treating doctor:

• Whether the symptoms and investigations support joint replacement.

• Whether suitable non-surgical treatments have been considered.

• The expected benefits and the limitations of surgery.

• Individual risk factors and possible complications.

• The implant and procedure being proposed.

• The rehabilitation plan and expected activity restrictions.

• Follow-up arrangements and the possibility of future implant-related problems.

Potential complications vary by procedure and patient. They may include infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, implant-related problems and further surgery. No surgeon can guarantee a particular result, and recovery differs between individuals.

Understanding the Cost of Orthopaedic Treatment

The cost of orthopaedic treatment in Tamil Nadu depends on the condition and the care required. A consultation or simple fracture treatment differs considerably from a complex reconstruction or revision joint replacement.

Factors that may affect the total cost include:

• The type and complexity of the procedure.

• Investigations and pre-operative assessment.

• Implant selection, when applicable.

• Hospital charges, room category and length of stay.

• Anaesthesia, medicines and other clinical services.

• Physiotherapy and follow-up care.

• Insurance coverage and policy conditions.

Patients should request a clear, itemised estimate from the hospital before planned treatment. Confirm what is included and whether additional charges may apply. Costs should be discussed transparently rather than relying on a general online figure.

About Dr Vijay Kumar Sohanlal

Dr Vijay Kumar Sohanlal is an orthopaedic doctor based in Chennai. The professional information published on his website lists an MBBS from Mysore University and an MS in Orthopaedics from Sri Ramachandra University in Chennai.

The website also describes fellowship training and professional exposure in joint replacement and related surgical techniques in India and overseas, including Germany and Australia. It identifies his work as focusing on hip and knee conditions, joint replacement and selected reconstructive procedures.

The website lists MAHI Multispeciality Hospital in Kilpauk and MGM Healthcare in Aminjikarai, Chennai, in connection with his practice. Patients should confirm current consultation locations and hospital affiliations directly with the relevant institutions.

This information is intended to describe the professional background stated in the available profile. Qualifications, fellowship titles, registration details and current appointments should be verified against official records before publication. Any specialist designation should accurately reflect recognised qualifications and applicable professional requirements.

For patients considering an orthopaedic consultation, the important steps are to discuss the symptoms, review relevant investigations, understand the diagnosis and consider the available treatment options. The appropriate plan depends on individual clinical findings and a discussion between the patient and the treating medical team.

How to Evaluate an Orthopaedic Surgeon

When choosing a doctor, focus on verifiable professional information and the relevance of their experience to the condition being assessed.

Useful points to check include:

• Recognised medical qualifications and current registration.

• Training relevant to the condition or procedure.

• The hospital or clinic where the doctor currently practises.

• A clear explanation of the diagnosis and available treatments.

• An open discussion of risks, limitations and alternatives.

• Rehabilitation arrangements and follow-up care.

• Transparent information about treatment costs.

Patients should feel able to ask questions and seek clarification. For major elective surgery, another medical opinion may help them better understand the diagnosis and treatment choices.

Read More: Orthopedic Surgeon in Kilpauk.