Article featured on Peak Performance
The suprascapular nerve along the back of the shoulder can get stretched or compressed enough to cause serious damage. This condition is called suprascapular neuropathy. The result can be shoulder pain and loss of function. For athletes who depend on the muscles supplied by that nerve, such a problem can be very disabling. Overhead athletes with traumatic shoulder injuries, especially severe rotator cuff tears seem to be affected most often.
Review of the Condition
In this review article, orthopedic surgeons from Rush University in Chicago report on their experience with this fairly uncommon shoulder problem. First, they review the anatomy of where the nerve is located, the two rotator cuff muscles it supplies motor function to (infraspinatus and supraspinatus), and what happens to cause suprascapular neuropathy.
Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
Diagnosis depends on the patient history, physical exam, and imaging studies. Treatment can be conservative (nonoperative) with change in activity and physical therapy. Or surgery may be needed to remove bone, ligaments, or cysts putting pressure on the nerve. Repair of an insufficient rotator cuff is essential when weakness of this shoulder stabilizer alters shoulder biomechanics.
For example, if the rotator cuff can’t stabilize the shoulder in the socket, then the altered position of the scapula and altered movement patterns of the scapula can pull on the nerve or compress (impinge) it.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
Deciding what type of treatment is best requires an accurate diagnosis of the problem. Chronic pressure, traction, or kinking of the nerve can lead to denervation (destruction) of the nerve — and that means permanent loss of muscle strength and function supplied by the nerve.
In cases like that, surgery is needed to remove whatever is putting pressure on the nerve, a procedure called decompression.
The Spinoglenoid Notch
Sometimes the surgeon must also go in and open up a notch (opening) in the scapula (shoulder blade) where the nerve passes through. This notch or opening is called the spinoglenoid notch. Everyone has one and the natural size, shape, and location in the bone can vary.
If the ligament across the top of this notch is tight and pressing down on the nerve and/or if the notch is too shallow or too small, the surgeon must make corrections in order to take pressure off the nerve.
Nerve Entrapment Causes
The nerve can also get stuck to the bone by fibrous tissue so that it can’t move as the arm is raised. This condition is called nerve entrapment. Other things that can cause suprascapular nerve entrapment include bone fracture, cysts, and enlarged veins.
Cysts form most often when damage to the labrum (rim of fibrous cartilage around the shoulder joint) allows fluid from the joint to escape and pool inside the cyst.
Visuals and Imaging
Drawings of the natural pathway for the nerve through this notch and down the back of the scapula are included in this article. Six different types and shapes of scapular notches are also drawn and depicted for the reader.
Photographs of patients and cadavers help show what this condition looks like inside and out.
Clinical Signs and Symptoms
Besides hearing of a history of overhead work (either as a throwing athlete or as a manual laborer), the examiner will see muscle atrophy (wasting) along the back of the shoulder.
Muscle strength will be weak when the patient tries to move the arm away from the body (a movement called shoulder abduction) or in external rotation. Most of the suprascapular nerve’s function is motor (moving the arm), but it serves a small sensory function (how the skin feels along the outside of the arm).
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Suprascapular neuropathy can be difficult to diagnose. X-rays may be needed to look for fractures, unusual notch formation, and position of the humeral head in the shoulder socket as an indication of the integrity of the rotator cuff muscles.
MRIs show the presence of any masses (tumors, cysts) and condition of the soft tissues (labrum, rotator cuff, muscle atrophy). An MRI can even show the nerve pathway and any areas of restriction. Special tests such as nerve conduction studies, electromyography (electrical study of muscle function), and injection of the notch can help pinpoint the location of nerve entrapment.
Conservative Care Approach
Unless there is imminent danger of permanent nerve damage, a conservative approach to treatment is tried first. Besides taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the patient is referred to a physical therapist for a course of stretching and strengthening exercises to address any rotator cuff problems. Special neural mobilization techniques can also be done to restore full, free mobility of the nerve along its course.
When to Move to Surgery
How long should patients try a nonoperative approach to this problem? Who should go right to surgery and skip the conservative care? The authors suggest (based on studies and their own experience) that patients with suprascapular neuropathy from overuse do best with conservative care while those with structural causes of nerve compression should advance to surgery sooner than later.
The risk of permanent nerve damage is greater when the symptoms have been present a long time (more than six months). Surgery is warranted if the surgeon is trying to prevent further nerve injury. Open and arthroscopic surgical techniques are discussed in detail.
Long-Term Outlook
No matter what kind of treatment is used, with nerve injuries, there is always the risk that full recovery will not occur. Patients may end up with muscle atrophy and weakness that just doesn’t go away even with exercise. Patients often automatically compensate for loss nerve function by using other nearby muscles to achieve motion previously provided by the affected infraspinatus and/or supraspinatus muscle.
These persistent problems are reported in up to half of all cases. Fortunately, most are mild cases with significant pain relief making the surgery worth it.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Bone-Boosting Foods
in Bone HealthArticle featured on NHS
A healthy balanced diet will help you build healthy bones from an early age and maintain them throughout your life.
You need sufficient calcium to keep your bones healthy and vitamin D to help your body absorb calcium.
Poor bone health can cause conditions such as rickets and osteoporosis and increase the risk of breaking a bone from a fall later in life.
You should be able to get all the nutrients you need for healthy bones by eating a balanced diet.
A good diet is only one of the building blocks for healthy bones, which also includes exercise and avoiding certain risk factors for osteoporosis.
Calcium
Adults need 700mg of calcium a day. You should be able to get all the calcium you need by eating a varied and balanced diet.
Good sources of calcium include:
Although spinach contains a lot of calcium, it also contains oxalate, which reduces calcium absorption, and it is therefore not a good source of calcium.
Vitamin D
Adults need 10 micrograms (400 International Units or IU) of vitamin D a day.
It’s difficult to get all the vitamin D we need from our diet and we get most of our vitamin D from the action of the sun on our skin.
From late March or early April to the end of September, you can make vitamin D from sunlight by having short daily periods of sun exposure without sunscreen. However, everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter when we cannot make vitamin D from sunlight.
Good food sources of vitamin D:
At-risk groups
Some groups of the population are at greater risk of not getting enough vitamin D, and the Department of Health and Social Care recommends that these people should take a daily 10 microgram (400IU) vitamin D supplement all year round. These groups are:
Osteoporosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe calcium and vitamin D supplements as well as osteoporosis drug treatments if they have concerns that your calcium intake may be low.
Menopause
Women lose bone more rapidly for a number of years after the menopause when their ovaries almost stop producing oestrogen, which has a protective effect on bones.
There are no specific calcium or vitamin D recommendations for the menopause, however a healthy balanced diet, including calcium, summer sunlight and vitamin D supplements, will help slow down the rate of bone loss.
Vegans
Non-vegans get most of their calcium from dairy foods (milk, cheese and yoghurt), but vegans will need to get it from other foods.
Good sources of calcium for vegans include:
The vegan diet contains little, if any, vitamin D without fortified foods or supplements but, for everyone, sunlight on the skin in spring and summer is the main source of vitamin D. Remember to cover up or protect your skin before it starts to turn red or burn.
Other vegan sources of vitamin D are:
Read more about sources of calcium and vitamin D in the vegan diet.
During pregnancy and when breastfeeding, women who follow a vegan diet need to make sure they get enough vitamins and minerals for their child to develop healthily.
Read about being vegetarian or vegan and pregnant for more information.
If you’re bringing up your baby or child on a vegan diet, you need to ensure they get a wide variety of foods to provide the energy and nutrients they need for growth.
Too much vitamin A
Some research has suggested a link between too much vitamin A and an increased risk of bone fractures. As a precaution, people who regularly eat liver (a rich source of vitamin A) are advised not to eat liver more than once a week, and not to take supplements containing retinol (a form of vitamin A usually found in foods that come from animals).
People at risk of osteoporosis, such as postmenopausal women and older people, are advised to limit their retinol intake to no more than 1.5mg (1,500 micrograms) a day by eating less liver and liver products and avoiding supplements containing retinol (including those containing fish liver oil).
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Life After Hip Replacement: What to Expect
in Hip Conditions, Hip Replacement, Joint ReplacementArticle featured on Orthopaedic Associates
Hip replacement surgery is a cutting-edge procedure that helps individuals regain mobility that has been limited due to chronic hip pain. It includes replacing the damaged portion of the hip joint with a new, working prosthesis.
After a hip replacement is the recovery period. During this time, hip replacement patients should follow their orthopedic surgeon’s instructions and post-operative physical therapy and rehabilitation program.
If you are curious about how long it will take before you can return to your daily activities, keep reading. In this article, we will talk about what to expect after a hip replacement and where you can go in Westlake and Avon, OH for top-notch orthopedic services.
Rehabilitation After a Hip Replacement
After the surgery, it is essential to follow a carefully planned recovery process to ensure a successful outcome. One crucial aspect of this process is gradually returning to daily activities.
It is essential to start slowly and gradually increase your activity level. Your healthcare team, including your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist, will provide specific guidelines based on your individual needs and how quickly you progress through the stages of recovery.
Immediate and Early Rehabilitation Phase
Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will soon begin an outpatient physical therapy program. The early rehabilitation phase usually lasts for the first few weeks after a hip replacement.
Below are some of the things you can expect during this time:
1. Pain Management
Managing post-operative pain through a combination of medication and ice therapy is important after a hip replacement. Pain should be managed for a comfortable recovery.
2. Physical Activity
Being sedentary can result in stiffness and delayed recovery. Sitting down for more than 45 minutes at a time is also discouraged. Patients are advised to get up and keep moving after a hip replacement, which also boosts circulation and healing. At this point, walking can still be aided by assistive devices such as a cane or walker.
However, too much activity can also increase pain and swelling. It’s best to follow the advice of your orthopedic care team.
3. Range of Motion and Strengthening Exercises
Performing gentle exercises improves hip joint mobility and flexibility. Hip replacement patients may start with ankle pumps and other leg exercises, such as calf and toe raises.
Also important are exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles around the hip joint, from the core muscles to the hamstrings. These exercises may include hip abduction and hip adduction exercises and straight leg raises.
4. Walking and Weight-Bearing Activities
Gradually increase weight-bearing activities, starting with assisted walking using crutches or a walker, and progress towards walking independently.
5. Balance and Stability Training
Practicing exercises improves balance and stability to prevent falls and regain confidence in daily activities.
Intermediate Rehabilitation Phase
This stage of recovery brings you closer to making a complete recovery from a hip replacement. Some of the things you can expect are the following:
In the advanced stages of rehabilitation, patients are ready to undergo sports-specific training or training specific to recreational activities until they can gradually return to their specific activity.
When Can I Return to Daily Activities After a Hip Replacement?
The timeline for returning to activities after a hip replacement can vary depending on individual factors, such as the type of job or activity.
Here are some general guidelines:
Driving
Most people can resume driving within four to six weeks after surgery, but it is important to consult with your surgeon before getting behind the wheel. Factors such as pain and strength of the operated leg are considered when determining if it is safe to drive again.
Work
The time frame for returning to work will depend on the nature of your job. If you have a sedentary desk job that does not involve heavy lifting or physical exertion, you may be able to return to work within two to six weeks. However, jobs that are more physically demanding may require a longer recovery period.
Other Activities
Low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling can often be resumed within six to 12 weeks. Higher-impact activities like running or contact sports may need to be postponed for a longer period, typically around three to six months or as advised by your surgeon.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Diagnostic & Treatment of Uncommon Shoulder Nerve Injury
in Shoulder InjuriesArticle featured on Peak Performance
The suprascapular nerve along the back of the shoulder can get stretched or compressed enough to cause serious damage. This condition is called suprascapular neuropathy. The result can be shoulder pain and loss of function. For athletes who depend on the muscles supplied by that nerve, such a problem can be very disabling. Overhead athletes with traumatic shoulder injuries, especially severe rotator cuff tears seem to be affected most often.
Review of the Condition
In this review article, orthopedic surgeons from Rush University in Chicago report on their experience with this fairly uncommon shoulder problem. First, they review the anatomy of where the nerve is located, the two rotator cuff muscles it supplies motor function to (infraspinatus and supraspinatus), and what happens to cause suprascapular neuropathy.
Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
Diagnosis depends on the patient history, physical exam, and imaging studies. Treatment can be conservative (nonoperative) with change in activity and physical therapy. Or surgery may be needed to remove bone, ligaments, or cysts putting pressure on the nerve. Repair of an insufficient rotator cuff is essential when weakness of this shoulder stabilizer alters shoulder biomechanics.
For example, if the rotator cuff can’t stabilize the shoulder in the socket, then the altered position of the scapula and altered movement patterns of the scapula can pull on the nerve or compress (impinge) it.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
Deciding what type of treatment is best requires an accurate diagnosis of the problem. Chronic pressure, traction, or kinking of the nerve can lead to denervation (destruction) of the nerve — and that means permanent loss of muscle strength and function supplied by the nerve.
In cases like that, surgery is needed to remove whatever is putting pressure on the nerve, a procedure called decompression.
The Spinoglenoid Notch
Sometimes the surgeon must also go in and open up a notch (opening) in the scapula (shoulder blade) where the nerve passes through. This notch or opening is called the spinoglenoid notch. Everyone has one and the natural size, shape, and location in the bone can vary.
If the ligament across the top of this notch is tight and pressing down on the nerve and/or if the notch is too shallow or too small, the surgeon must make corrections in order to take pressure off the nerve.
Nerve Entrapment Causes
The nerve can also get stuck to the bone by fibrous tissue so that it can’t move as the arm is raised. This condition is called nerve entrapment. Other things that can cause suprascapular nerve entrapment include bone fracture, cysts, and enlarged veins.
Cysts form most often when damage to the labrum (rim of fibrous cartilage around the shoulder joint) allows fluid from the joint to escape and pool inside the cyst.
Visuals and Imaging
Drawings of the natural pathway for the nerve through this notch and down the back of the scapula are included in this article. Six different types and shapes of scapular notches are also drawn and depicted for the reader.
Photographs of patients and cadavers help show what this condition looks like inside and out.
Clinical Signs and Symptoms
Besides hearing of a history of overhead work (either as a throwing athlete or as a manual laborer), the examiner will see muscle atrophy (wasting) along the back of the shoulder.
Muscle strength will be weak when the patient tries to move the arm away from the body (a movement called shoulder abduction) or in external rotation. Most of the suprascapular nerve’s function is motor (moving the arm), but it serves a small sensory function (how the skin feels along the outside of the arm).
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Suprascapular neuropathy can be difficult to diagnose. X-rays may be needed to look for fractures, unusual notch formation, and position of the humeral head in the shoulder socket as an indication of the integrity of the rotator cuff muscles.
MRIs show the presence of any masses (tumors, cysts) and condition of the soft tissues (labrum, rotator cuff, muscle atrophy). An MRI can even show the nerve pathway and any areas of restriction. Special tests such as nerve conduction studies, electromyography (electrical study of muscle function), and injection of the notch can help pinpoint the location of nerve entrapment.
Conservative Care Approach
Unless there is imminent danger of permanent nerve damage, a conservative approach to treatment is tried first. Besides taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the patient is referred to a physical therapist for a course of stretching and strengthening exercises to address any rotator cuff problems. Special neural mobilization techniques can also be done to restore full, free mobility of the nerve along its course.
When to Move to Surgery
How long should patients try a nonoperative approach to this problem? Who should go right to surgery and skip the conservative care? The authors suggest (based on studies and their own experience) that patients with suprascapular neuropathy from overuse do best with conservative care while those with structural causes of nerve compression should advance to surgery sooner than later.
The risk of permanent nerve damage is greater when the symptoms have been present a long time (more than six months). Surgery is warranted if the surgeon is trying to prevent further nerve injury. Open and arthroscopic surgical techniques are discussed in detail.
Long-Term Outlook
No matter what kind of treatment is used, with nerve injuries, there is always the risk that full recovery will not occur. Patients may end up with muscle atrophy and weakness that just doesn’t go away even with exercise. Patients often automatically compensate for loss nerve function by using other nearby muscles to achieve motion previously provided by the affected infraspinatus and/or supraspinatus muscle.
These persistent problems are reported in up to half of all cases. Fortunately, most are mild cases with significant pain relief making the surgery worth it.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Why Does Your Back Hurt?
in Back PainArticle featured on OPA Ortho
If you’ve ever dealt with nagging pain in your back—whether after lifting something heavy, sitting too long, or working out—you’re not alone. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor, with nearly 65 million Americans reporting a recent episode of back pain, according to Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute.
Back pain often stems from structural issues in the lumbar spine, muscles, or joints, and in some cases, it may involve pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves, which can affect mobility and quality of life.
Understanding what causes back pain, especially from an orthopedic perspective, can help you take the right steps toward relief and long-term spine health.
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain can stem from a variety of issues, but orthopedic causes are among the most common and treatable. These include problems with the bone spurs, muscles, joints, or disks in the spine. Unlike back pain caused by stress, infections, or internal organs, orthopedic conditions are rooted in the structure and movement of your body.
Common Orthopedic Causes of Back Pain
Pain by Location: What It Might Mean
Back Pain Symptoms to Watch For
These symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause, but common signs include:
Understanding your back pain symptoms can help you and your provider pinpoint the root cause and guide effective treatment.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Sometimes, back pain resolves on its own. But if you’re noticing certain warning signs, it’s time to seek expert care:
Orthopedic specialists can diagnose these issues with imaging tools and physical exams, helping tailor a treatment plan to your needs.
Treatment Options for Back Pain
At-Home Relief
Start with the basics: rest, ice or heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These simple steps can reduce inflammation and make daily movement more manageable. Be sure to avoid activities that trigger or worsen your discomfort while you recover.
Physical Therapy
Targeted physical therapy can make a big difference in managing lower back pain. Therapists often guide you through personalized exercises that improve core strength, balance, and flexibility, all of which support your spine.
They may also introduce stretches and posture adjustments to reduce strain and prevent future flare-ups.
Medication and Injections
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants may help ease moderate pain and reduce tension in the surrounding muscles. In more persistent cases, your provider might recommend corticosteroid injections near irritated nerves to relieve inflammation and improve mobility.
Surgical Intervention
If conservative treatments aren’t effective and the acute back pain continues to interfere with your daily life, surgery may be considered. Procedures like discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion can correct structural issues, relieve nerve compression, and restore stability to the spine.
Special Considerations for Women
Hormonal shifts, pregnancy, and changes in posture can all influence lower back pain in females. Conditions like sacroiliac joint dysfunction or osteoporosis are also more common in women and should be evaluated if pain persists.
Preventing Future Back Pain
Staying active is great for your health, but protecting your back while you do it is just as important. A few simple adjustments to your routine and environment can go a long way in preventing pain and injuries down the road.
By making these practices part of your daily routine, you can reduce the risk of back pain and keep your spine healthy for the long haul.
Conclusion
Back pain doesn’t have to be a permanent part of your life. Whether it’s a simple strain or something more complex like spinal stenosis, getting the right diagnosis and treatment can put you on the path to pain relief.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Rain and Joint Pain: How Weather Affects Knees and Shoulders
in Joint Pain, Knee Pain, Shoulder InjuriesArticle featured on Dr. Nataraj
The monsoon season, with its refreshing rains and cooler temperatures, is eagerly awaited by many. However, for people suffering from joint problems, especially in the knees and shoulders, the onset of monsoon often brings increased discomfort, stiffness, and pain. If you’ve noticed your joint aches worsening with the change in weather, you’re not alone. As an experienced orthopedic specialist, I often see a surge in patients reporting seasonal joint pain during this time of the year.
In this detailed blog, I will explain why joint pain worsens during the monsoon, who is most affected, and what steps you can take to manage and prevent worsening symptoms effectively.
Why Does Monsoon Weather Affect Joint Pain?
Several environmental factors during the monsoon season contribute to the exacerbation of joint pain:
Barometric pressure drops just before and during rainy weather. This pressure change can cause tissues around the joints to expand slightly, leading to increased pressure on the nerves in the joint capsules and causing pain or stiffness.
High humidity affects the synovial fluid inside joints, which acts as a lubricant. Changes in its consistency may reduce its cushioning effect, making joint movement more painful, particularly in knees and shoulders.
Cooler temperatures in the monsoon can lead to muscle tightening and reduced blood flow, both of which contribute to joint stiffness and discomfort.
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Monsoon-Related Joint Pain?
Certain groups experience monsoon-triggered joint pain more intensely:
Differences in Weather Effects on Natural vs. Replaced Joints
Patients often wonder if joint replacements are immune to weather-related pain. The answer is not always. While a knee or shoulder replacement eliminates the damaged cartilage and bone, the surrounding soft tissues and nerves still exist and can react to weather changes. However, most patients report significantly less weather-related pain post-surgery compared to their natural joints.
Tips to Manage Joint Pain During the Monsoon Season
If you suffer from monsoon-related joint discomfort, here are some practical tips:
Regular movement improves blood circulation and maintains joint flexibility. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga can help reduce stiffness.
Avoid exposure to cold and damp conditions. Use warm clothing, heating pads, or warm baths to relax muscles and reduce joint pain.
Include anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, ginger, and omega-3-rich fish. Avoid excess salt and processed foods which can worsen swelling.
Professional physiotherapy sessions can strengthen muscles around the joints and improve mobility. Gentle massages help relieve stiffness.
Follow your doctor’s advice regarding pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin.
Drinking sufficient water helps maintain joint lubrication and flush out toxins.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Specialist?
While seasonal joint pain is common, persistent or worsening symptoms require medical evaluation. Consult your orthopedic doctor if you experience:
At Knee and Shoulder Clinic, we offer comprehensive evaluations, including imaging and lab tests, to determine the exact cause of your joint pain and tailor personalized treatment plans.
Advanced Treatments for Chronic Joint Pain
For patients with chronic or severe joint pain aggravated by weather, modern treatment options include:
Early intervention can prevent progression and improve quality of life.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Stretches and Workouts That Are Joint-Friendly
in Joint Pain, Surgery Recovery, Wellness TipsArticle featured on MidAmerica Orthopaedics
Exercise and good nutrition are key elements to keeping your body in a healthy state. But even these two health measures can cause harm if not done properly. For example, did you know that certain stretches and workouts can actually lead to joint damage?
How Do Joint-Friendly Stretches and Workouts Help to Decrease Joint Pain?
If you already suffer from joint pain, you might feel like working out will only increase the problem. This is hardly ever the case, however. Inactivity leads to decreased joint mobility and flexibility, which leads to weak muscles and deformed joints. Exercising regularly helps to reverse this, reducing joint stiffness, building muscle strength, and improving your overall fitness.
The secret is in making sure that the stretches and workout you do are joint-friendly. This exemplifies the importance of doing proper research and obtaining expert medical advice before beginning new habits or health programs.
Joint-Friendly Stretches
Stretching is an excellent, low-impact method of loosening your muscles. According to Harvard Health, stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, which helps us to maintain a range of motion in our joints. It also helps to prevent muscle damage and keep muscles strong enough to support our joints.
Before beginning your stretching, do some light activity for 5-10 minutes or so to warm up your muscles. This can be a simple walk – just something to get blood flowing to your muscles. Otherwise, save your stretching for after your workout when your muscle fibers are more limber.
When stretching, be sure to hold the position for roughly 30 seconds. Do not bounce or move in and out of the stretch. This can actually cause more damage and prevent the stretch from being effective.
Range-of-Motion Stretches
Range-of-motion stretches help to build your joint flexibility to allow them to move through their full range of motion. These stretches should be gentle enough that you can perform them daily. Learn a basic routine that covers your entire body, head to toe, that you can perform every day, especially if you are having joint pain flareups. As your joints get stronger and more flexible, you can evolve these stretches to increase your range of motion.
Joint-Friendly Workouts
As with stretching, your workouts need to begin with some warming up. Never begin a workout on cold muscles, tendons, or joints as this will increase the likelihood of pain and damage. Begin with some light aerobic exercise, dynamic, moving stretches, or performing your workout movements at lower intensities.
Low-Impact Cardio
Cardio or endurance workouts are wonderful for your overall fitness. They improve your cardiovascular health and can help you control your weight while increasing energy levels. But you want to be sure that you are staying within a moderate-intensity level of cardio, so that you aren’t overexerting your joints. Low-impact machines like the elliptical or stair climber are easier on your joints, as are walking and bicycling. Being able to maintain a conversation while exercising is a good indication that you are working within a moderate-intensity level, although your breathing should be increased while doing so.
Isometric Exercises
Isometric exercises are a mild form of strength training to help you build muscle. Stronger muscles protect joints from injuries. During these workouts, the muscles are contracting by tensing and relaxing, but the body doesn’t move. While this is a slow-working exercise, it can be much less strenuous on your joints than traditional strength training.
Swimming and Water Aerobics
Swimming and water aerobics are one of the least stressful workouts for your joints, while still providing the conditioning they need for flexibility. This is due to water’s buoyancy, which is much gentler on the joints than higher-impact workouts. And there are a surprisingly large number of workouts that can be done in water besides just swimming, like bicycling, jumping jacks, and squats to name a few. Consider looking into a local water aerobics class and be sure to let your instructor know about your joint limitations before beginning your routine.
Yoga or Tai Chi
Yoga and tai chi are both forms of body awareness exercises. While some movements or forms can be excessively strenuous, there are many gentle forms of yoga and tai chi that are joint-friendly. Both can help to increase your range of motion, boost flexibility, improve balance, and tone muscles. They are also excellent at promoting relaxation.
Tips to Keep Your Joints Safe
In addition to the above stretches and workouts, keep the following tips in mind when beginning your routine to reduce overuse injuries and further aggravating joints.
Start Slow and Move Gently
Building flexibility and strength is a marathon, not a sprint. If you don’t usually workout, start very slowly – only a few minutes a day and gradually work up to longer workouts. Also, keep your movements easy and gentle. Working out should be somewhat challenging, but not painful. If you feel pain or notice swelling or redness in your joints, stop and talk to your doctor about what is normal and what may be caused by overexertion.
Stick to Low-Impact
Avoid anything that puts stress on your joints, like running, jumping, or lifting heavy weights. If it is a high-impact workout or sport, it will only increase your joint pain or damage.
Use Heat and Ice
Heat and ice treatments can be a great addition to your workout routine. Heat treatments, such as warm towels, rice bags, or heating pads can help to relax your joints and muscles. They should be applied warm – not hot – and used for roughly 20 minutes at a time. Ice can be applied for up to 20 minutes as well to help reduce swelling.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Top 4 Injuries Caused by Trips and Falls
in Prevention, Wellness TipsArticle featured on South Shore Orthopedics
Millions of Americans each year trip and fall, resulting in injuries ranging from mild to very severe. The sudden and unpredictable nature of these accidents puts anyone, regardless of age or overall health, at risk of suffering an injury that requires treatment for proper recovery and if delayed, could lead to serious health complications. For this reason, even if your fall seems mild, it’s always best to consult a physician. Here are five of the most common fall injuries of which you should be aware.
1. Head Injury (concussion or TBI)
While any blunt force to the head could be classified as a medical emergency and should warrant a doctor’s visit just to be safe, there are clear signs of a more severe head injury such as a concussion or a traumatic brain injury. Some of the clearest signs of a serious injury to the head are loss of consciousness, slurred speech, blurry vision, minor memory loss and confusion, and nausea and vomiting after trauma. These symptoms could point towards serious medical issues such as bleeding on the brain and irreversible trauma that can quickly and permanently impair your abilities and quality of life. But, do not count on these symptoms. Some serious head injuries caused by falls show only minor signs at first, such as pain, swelling, and a minor headache. This is why hitting your head is one of the deadliest types of fall injury: because the problem can be much worse than it appears.
2. Broken Bones/Fractures
One of the most common fall injuries is a broken or fractured bone. When ignored these injuries can result in a break healing incorrectly, leading to chronic pain, restricted usage, and other negative complications. Some small fractures can be left to heal on their own, while most breaks will require a cast and/or surgery. One of the most common and debilitating fractures (especially for older people) is the hip fracture. It will often require a hip replacement, extensive hospital and rehabilitation time, and a lot of pain. But all of these problems become a lot more serious and sometimes fatal when not given immediate medical attention. Given the nature of fall injuries, breaks will likely always occur with a serious fall and should be anticipated even in less serious incidents.
3. Soft Tissue Injuries
The soft tissue is often damaged during a fall injury, as the extremities can get twisted, bent, or over-extended beneath the bodies descending weight. Many of these injuries will result only in soreness such as a minor ankle or wrist sprains. But fall injuries can also result in torn ligaments and tendons that often require immediate surgery. These more serious problems can sometimes lead to nerve damage, chronic pain, and even restricted mobility without proper and swift care. And unfortunately, much like the injuries listed previously, soft tissue trauma often presents little to no symptoms immediately following a fall, making it difficult to assess the seriousness of the situation.
4. Shoulder/Rotator Cuff Injury
Oftentimes during a trip and fall injury, the shoulder will receive a lot of impact, as the arm is normally extended in an attempt to regain balance or brace for impact. In this case, the shoulder can be violently twisted or fallen on while the arm is outstretched, resulting in a dislocated shoulder and/or a torn rotatory cuff. The extent of these injuries could require anything from a RICE regiment to surgery to restore mobility into the shoulder/arm area. The symptoms should appear soon following the fall, but an assessment of what treatment would be best is highly recommended. Just like the other types of injuries on this list, there is some recovery time (for a rotary cuff, this may be a few months) necessary for full function again after trauma to the shoulder following a fall.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Kinds of Ankle Sprains and Common Treatments
in Ankle Injuries, Sprained AnkleArticle featured on HSS
A sprained ankle is the most common athletic injury and the number one reason people go to see an orthopedist. There are an estimated 30,000 ankle sprains per day in the United States alone. They are more prevalent in certain sports – such as basketball, where in one study they accounted for 13% of all musculoskeletal injuries. (A high ankle sprain, which affects a different set of ligaments, is less common.) Despite such a high frequency of injury, conventional wisdom has led most physicians to recommend various forms of conservative treatment, with the adage “all these injuries get better.”
More recently, however, studies of these injuries have shown that 10% to 40% of them result in persistent symptoms after the initial injury. These studies show that this can be due to a number of problems, including:
It is not clear how many cases of chronic ankle sprain result from a single, initial ankle sprain. However, many doctors report that damage to the nerve receptors around the ankle and the weakening of the lateral (outside) ankle ligaments are likely to cause additional ankle sprains.
Types of Ankle Sprains
There are two different basic classifications of ankle sprains: Anatomic (the level severity of damage to tissues in the ankle) and functional (the level an injury affects a patient’s ability to walk or put weight on the ankle).
Anatomic Classifications
Functional Classifications
These grading systems can also predict timelines for recovery, which range from 1 to 2 weeks (Grade I) to 6 to 8 weeks (Grade III).
Treatments
It is very important to reduce swelling in the immediate post-injury period. This can be accomplished by a compressive wrap, icing for 20 minutes at least twice a day and wearing a CAM walker boot or ankle brace to provide protected weightbearing. This will expedite healing and protect the ankle while it is still vulnerable. More importantly, reducing the swelling will help the ankle ligaments heal in their natural position. If the ankle remains swollen for longer periods, the ligaments may heal in a stretched-out position, which makes them less functional.
The time-tested gold standard in treatment of ankle sprains is non-operative management, which remains a well-accepted and typically successful treatment choice for most patients. Several prospective studies have compared non-operative and operative treatment for Grade III sprains, and have failed to demonstrate a difference in outcomes.
Early functional rehabilitation, therefore, remains the cornerstone of conservative management. This includes:
The vast majority of patients who undergo conservative, non-operative management will have an uneventful post-injury course and return to sports and/or routine activity within six weeks. Despite these encouraging data, however, 10% to 40% of patients will go on to develop persistent symptoms, including recurrent sprains and pain.
In athletes with a history of prior sprains, bracing or taping the ankle has been shown to decrease the frequency and severity of ankle sprains.
These above non-operative methods should always be considered the first-line treatment in any patient with recurrent ankle sprains. Improved proprioception and muscle strengthening can be very successful in managing these patients, and current data do not support using surgical treatments unless a full course of physical therapy has failed to bring the patient back to full strength and mobility.
Patients with recurrent sprains can benefit significantly from a guided therapy program focusing on strengthening the peroneal muscles (the muscles on the outside of the calf), which can improve dynamic ankle stability. Patients usually reach a maximum benefit at 6 to12 weeks. Any patient who exhibits recurrent sprains, ankle rolling or other ankle instability after that time or has associated injuries such as swelling, locking or catching may be a candidate for surgery. These patients should be evaluated by an orthopedist to discuss optimal management to decrease the risk for future ankle problems such as arthritis.
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Stretching Newly Injured Muscles
in Wellness TipsArticle featured on Children’s Hospital Colorado
Most young athletes know that injuries are possible when they’re active and a training injury or soreness is almost inevitable. So, what can you do to help heal from minor muscle injuries? Stretching, for one. Pretty much everyone can do it, but you have to know how and when it’s appropriate.
Which muscle injuries can you stretch?
The first thing to understand is which muscle injuries are OK for stretching and which aren’t. Two of the most common muscle injuries for young athletes are:
Stretching can help you heal from a muscle strain, as long as it’s not severe. Stretching can also help when healing a new muscle contusion. For example, our athletic trainers often recommend simultaneously icing and stretching quad contusions right after the injury.
What is a muscle strain?
Also known as a pulled or torn muscle, a muscle strain is when the muscle fibers pull apart from each other and are damaged. This can come from putting too much weight on the muscle, overuse or fatigue, an accident or using the muscle incorrectly. The right stretch at the right time is a key component in that treatment plan.
Stretching is not only important to prevent further injury and scar tissue, but also helps a newly injured muscle lengthen to release the body’s natural response to spasm. Young athletes can often pull a muscle by doing exercises incorrectly or during their sports.
The dos of stretching a newly injured muscle
The most important thing to pay attention to is the kind of pain you’re feeling.
“A good indicator when it’s OK to begin gentle stretching is when the pain in the injured area has shifted from sharp or stabbing to more of a soreness or stiffness,” says Coonan. “You shouldn’t start until that happens.”
When stretching a newly injured muscle, it will help if you:
The don’ts of stretching a newly injured muscle
Timing is everything when it comes to what you shouldn’t do when stretching an injured muscle. If your muscle isn’t relaxed, it can affect the muscles around it.
“Stretching before the muscle can relax is setting yourself up for further injury,” says Coonan.
When stretching a newly strained muscle:
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Common Falls Sport Injuries Seen in Student Athletes
in Junior Sports, Sports Related InjuriesArticle featured on Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine
Fall season is in full swing, which means fall sports season is in full swing, too! If you have student athletes in your house, then you should be aware of the following common injuries that tend to occur this time of year.
Common Falls Sport Injuries Seen in Student Athletes
Whether your child plays field hockey, soccer, football, cross-country, or another fall season sport, he or she may be at risk for any of the following conditions:
WHIPLASH
Commonly seen in football and other full contact sports, whiplash is pain, strain, and tissue damage in the neck caused by a sudden and violent forward/backward movement of the head. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, neck and shoulder pain, and neck stiffness.
Concussions and post-concussive syndrome are related issues seen particularly by football players. These are actually mild forms of a brain injury, and can present with some whiplash-like symptoms, like dizziness and headaches, as well as other symptoms including mental fogginess, irritability, and insomnia.
ACL SPRAIN OR TEAR
Consistently reported as one of the most common injuries among fall athletes, an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear or sprain is damage to an important stabilizing ligament within the knee. It often happens due to sudden pivoting, turning, and/or jumping. Symptoms include knee pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, and difficulty walking. A person with an ACL sprain or tear may even hear an audible “pop” in their knee during the acute injury. This can often occur with damage to the meniscus (which serve as supportive discs inside the knee joint).
In addition to ACL tears, ligamentous injuries at the ankle are also frequently reported during the fall season.
SHIN SPLINTS
Cross-country runners are particularly at risk for this type of injury. Shin splints cause pain and tenderness on the front of the lower leg due to micro-damage of the muscles, tendons, and other connective tissues in that area. It’s often caused by overuse, or a sudden increase in physical activity.
How Our Orthopedic and Non-Surgical Pain Team Can Help Treat & Prevent Fall Sports-Related Injuries
In addition to getting quality sleep, recovery, hydration, and nutrition, your child can also minimize his or her risk by seeking preventive care through pre-season sports physicals and skills-specific training.
Sometimes, however, no amount of preparation can prevent an injury. At Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine, we offer some of Northern New Jersey’s leading diagnostic and treatment services for acute orthopedic injuries using non-surgical and highly effective approaches. We’ve helped hundreds of student athletes recover quickly and completely from their injuries so they can get back to their sport at their fullest potential.
Specific techniques we use to help athletes heal include:
The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.
Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.
Phone:
503-224-8399
Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm