Knee Pain, Shoulder Strain? What Your Body Might Be Telling You
- Mar 2
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
An interview with: Dr Kevin Yik | MBBS (Singapore) | MRCS (Glasgow) | Mmed (Ortho Surg) | FRCS Orthopaedic Surgery (Edinburgh)
Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore practising at Elite Orthopaedics, with a clinical focus on sports injuries, and joint conditions.
Introduction
Joint pain, sports injuries, and musculoskeletal issues are common across all age groups in Singapore, from students with sprains to office workers with knee aches and older adults managing arthritis. These conditions can quietly affect mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life if left unaddressed.
We spoke with Dr Kevin Yik, an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore practising at Elite Orthopaedics, about what patients should know when it comes to managing shoulder, knee, and joint-related concerns. The conversation explores when to seek orthopaedic care, the difference between surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and what patients can expect during their first visit to an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore.
What You Will Learn in This Interview
Watch the Interview
Audio version coming soon on PodBean
You can also read the full transcript here
From Sports Injuries to Daily Strains: What Orthopaedics Really Covers
Orthopaedic surgeons treat conditions affecting your bones, joints, muscles, and tendons. That includes sports injuries, overuse problems, arthritis, and even fractures.
"In orthopaedics in particular, these problems tend to be mechanical in the sense that it can be stuff like a torn ligament, a torn tendon, a fracture. And our job is to try and solve these mechanical problems.” says Dr Yik.
So When Should You See a Specialist?
Dr Yik’s advice is simple:
"If [you] have a new pain that is persistent and not improving despite resting for five to seven days then it would be reasonable to seek professional opinion..."
That persistent ache could be your body’s way of flagging an injury that needs attention.
Common issues he treats include:
Knee pain from meniscus or ligament injuries
Shoulder problems like rotator cuff tears or instability
Tendon conditions (e.g. tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
Ankle or wrist sprains
Degenerative issues such as arthritis or osteoporosis-related fractures in older adults
At Elite Orthopaedics, physiotherapy is often the first step. Dr Yik works with a trusted network of physiotherapists across Singapore, and he takes time to match each patient with someone suited to their needs, whether that’s based on where they live, or the type of sport or activity they do, like CrossFit or powerlifting.
In some cases, injections may also be part of the treatment plan. These include:
Steroid injections
commonly used for joint conditions like frozen shoulder
Supplement injections
often used to help with knee pain
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
a newer option for tendon problems such as tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or Achilles issues
These options are always discussed individually with each patient, depending on their condition and goals. And if non-surgical methods don’t provide enough relief, minimally invasive procedures may be the next step.
Services at Elite Orthopaedics
People visit an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore for a wide range of concerns. Some come in after a sports injury that hasn’t improved, while others are managing joint pain that makes everyday tasks difficult. Whether it’s a recent strain or a chronic condition, these issues can affect comfort, movement, and quality of life.
At Elite Orthopaedics, care covers both non-surgical treatments and surgical procedures, with a focus on personalised, evidence-based management.
Treatments and procedures available include:
Clinical assessment and diagnostic imaging (e.g. X-rays, MRI review)
Physiotherapy referral and rehabilitation planning
Joint injections (steroids, supplements, PRP)
Arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery for knees and shoulders
Joint preservation and reconstructive procedures
By offering both conservative care and advanced surgical options, Elite Orthopaedics supports patients through every stage of recovery, whether the goal is to return to sport, reduce pain, or simply move better day to day.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
Many patients decide to see an orthopaedic surgeon after struggling with joint pain that isn’t getting better, or following an injury that still affects their movement or daily activities.
Before the Appointment
If you’ve had recent imaging (like X-rays or MRI scans) or seen another doctor for the same issue, bringing those reports along can be helpful—but it’s not required. Dr Yik shares, “I don’t expect patients to prepare anything special.”
During the Consultation
Expect a detailed discussion about your symptoms, followed by a physical examination. If needed, scans such as X-rays or MRIs may be arranged to confirm the diagnosis.
From there, Dr Yik explains the findings in simple, clear terms and outlines treatment options that suit your condition and lifestyle.
This approach ensures that each patient walks away with a better understanding of what’s going on, and a plan tailored to their needs.
Meet Dr Kevin Yik
Dr Kevin Yik is an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore practising at Elite Orthopaedics, with clinic locations at Gleneagles Medical Centre and Farrer Park Hospital. His clinical practice focuses on conditions such as sports injuries, and joint-related pain.
He also manages degenerative conditions like arthritis and tendon issues affecting the elbow and ankle.
Dr Yik’s approach is guided by a commitment to professional, ethical, and evidence-based care. Whether it’s matching a patient with the right physiotherapist, discussing non-surgical options, or planning a procedure, his focus remains on offering treatment that fits each individual’s needs.
As he explains, it’s about treating patients the way he would want to be treated himself, which means be more clearly, respectfully, and with their long-term recovery in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.Do I need a referral to see Dr Kevin Yik?
No referral is required. You can book an appointment directly through the clinic’s website, by phone, or via email.
2. Does seeing an orthopaedic surgeon mean I’ll need surgery?
Not necessarily. Many conditions can be treated without surgery. Dr Yik often starts with non-surgical options like physiotherapy, medication, or joint injections.
3. What should I bring to my first appointment?
If you have past medical reports, X-rays, or MRI scans, it’s helpful to bring them along. If not, that’s completely fine. Dr Yik will guide you through any necessary investigations.
4. Can the clinic help with physiotherapy referrals?
Yes. Dr Yik works with physiotherapists across Singapore and often matches patients based on their sport, lifestyle, or preferred location to support more personalised recovery.
5. What kinds of conditions does Dr Yik treat?
He sees patients for knee and shoulder injuries, tendon problems like tennis elbow, arthritis, and general joint or musculoskeletal issues across all age groups.
Clinic Overview
Elite Orthopaedics
Gleneagles Medical Centre6 Napier Road, #08-03 Singapore 258499
Farrer Park Medical Centre1 Farrer Park Station Road, #14-18Singapore 217562
Phone: +65 6321 4110
Website: https://eliteorthopaedics.com.sg
Operating Hours
Mon to Fri 9:00 am - 5:30pm
Sat 9:00 am - 5:30pm
Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays
Disclaimer
This interview is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Patients should consult a qualified specialist in Singapore for personalised care.
