Article featured on HealthPartners
As we get older, just about every part of our body will experience natural changes. And for many adults, neck and back problems are some of the not-so-fun parts of the aging process.
Spondylosis (or degenerative disc disease) is one of the most common spinal conditions adults experience. In fact, it’s estimated that around 85% of adults over the age of 60 have some degree of spondylosis.
But what is spondylosis exactly? What are the signs and symptoms of spondylosis? Is it treatable? And when should you see a doctor for any neck and back pain you might be experiencing? We answer all these questions and more.
What you should know about spondylosis
Spondylosis, or degenerative disc disease, is a form of arthritis that’s sometimes called spinal osteoarthritis. Spondylosis affects the discs in your spine, which can sometimes lead to neck pain, back pain or loss of normal spinal function.
Aging is the main cause of spondylosis
As you get older every part of your body changes, including vertebra (spinal bones) and spinal discs.
Spinal discs act as cushions between each of your neck and back’s vertebra – these discs are often described as rubbery or jelly-like. But as we age, these discs begin to dry out and thin. And that thinning places stress on every muscle, joint and ligament that holds your spine in place, which can lead to pain and decreased range of motion.
Over time, these spondylotic changes can sometimes lead to compression on one or more of the spinal nerve roots, bone spur growth or herniated discs, which may cause other symptoms.
Risk factors for spondylosis
Spondylosis is very common as you age, and you may not be able to avoid getting it. There are certain risk factors that can speed up the aging process or make you more likely to get spondylosis, including:
- Being overweight – Extra weight can put added pressure on the structures of your spine, causing them to break down faster.
- Genetic factors – People in certain families are more likely to experience spondylotic changes.
- Smoking – People who smoke are more likely to get spondylosis – and when they do, their symptoms get worse more quickly.
- A sedentary lifestyle – Sedentary behaviors are shown to increase the risk of lower back pain from spondylosis and other causes.
- Repetitive stress – Having a job that requires repetitive movement that puts stress on your spine increases your chances of developing spondylosis.
- Spinal injuries – If you’ve injured your spine in a car accident or a fall, you may be more likely to develop spondylosis.
The three types of spondylosis: Symptoms and locations
There are three different types of spondylosis. Each type is related to a specific area of your spine where the changes have occurred. These include the cervical (C), thoracic (T) and lumbar (L) regions.
Your spinal column is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae that, in part, consist of seven cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (mid back), and five lumbar (lower back) vertebrae. Between each vertebra is a disc.
The spinal column also has joints called facet joints. Their job is to connect the vertebrae and give them the flexibility to move against each other.
Spondylosis symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may not even notice any neck or back pain or problems. While spondylosis can affect the joints anywhere along the spine, it occurs more commonly in the neck and low back.
What is cervical spondylosis?
Cervical spondylosis affects your neck, which is also called the cervical spine and represents vertebrae C1 to C7. These vertebrae connect your skull to your body and are responsible for motions like turning your head left and right, or nodding your head up and down.
Cervical spondylosis symptoms
Your neck has a big job to do. It supports the weight of your head and a wide range of movements. While many people don’t experience any symptoms of cervical spondylosis, those that do may feel:
- Neck pain, which can feel like a constant ache, get worse when you move or both (pain may also spread to your arms or shoulders)
- Neck stiffness that can get worse over time
- Muscle pain or spasms
- Headaches, especially in the back of your head
- A grinding, clicking or popping feeling when you move your neck
Is cervical spondylosis serious?
Most of the time, cervical spondylosis isn’t serious. But in some cases, cervical spondylosis can lead to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which is where the spinal cord and nerves pass through.
If the cord or nerves become compressed (or pinched), you may experience the following symptoms and should see a doctor as soon as possible:
- Numbness, tingling or shooting pain in your shoulders, arms or hands, or what can feel like an electrical sensation when you flex your neck forward
- Difficulty walking or lack of coordination
- Loss of bladder and bowel control (rare)
What is thoracic spondylosis?
Your thoracic spine, T1 through T12, picks up where your cervical spine leaves off. It continues to protect your spinal cord, and also connects to and supports your rib cage.
As the “trunk” or middle part of your back, these 12 vertebrae are stable and sturdy. As a result, thoracic spondylosis is the least common type of degenerative disc disease.
Thoracic spondylosis symptoms
Most people do not experience any symptoms. But if symptoms are present, they may include:
- Stiffness or soreness in the middle-back
- Pain in the chest and upper abdomen
- Pain radiating down the back or legs
- Weakness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Increased pain with activity
Is thoracic spondylosis serious?
Thoracic spondylosis is not usually serious, but it can worsen over time without treatment. Sometimes more serious symptoms can develop. If you experience sudden loss of motor control or walking becomes difficult, get medical care immediately.
What is lumbar spondylosis?
Lumbar spondylosis impacts your lower spine, L1 through L5. More specifically, the lumbar region is the section of the vertebrae between the thoracic spine and the sacrum. It’s the part of the spinal column that supports and distributes most of your body’s weight, making lumbar spondylosis perhaps the most common spinal osteoarthritis condition. In fact, more than 80% of those in the U.S. over the age of 40 may have lumbar spondylosis.
Lumbar spondylosis symptoms
Many people with lumbar spondylosis, don’t have any symptoms or feel pain. But some people experience symptoms such as:
- Low back pain, which can feel like constant soreness, flare up when you move, or both (back pain may also be worse in the morning and get better throughout the day)
- Back stiffness
- Weakness in the legs or feet
- Muscle pain or spasms
- Grinding, clicking or popping sensation when you sit, stand or move in a certain way
- Bladder retention (inability to urinate)
Like with cervical spondylosis, changes in spinal discs in the lumbar region can lead to nerve or cord compression. Disc herniation, which is when a disc slips or bulges through a weakened part of the spine, is also a possibility. Herniated discs are most common in the lower back and are also more common as we get older.
Is lumbar spondylosis serious?
While lumbar spondylosis usually isn’t serious, you should see a doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Numbness, tingling or pain that radiates from your back to your buttocks, legs, feet or toes (sciatica)
- Changes in how you walk (gait) or difficulty walking
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (rare)
Spondylosis vs. spondylolysis: What’s the difference?
These two terms may look and sound almost identical, but there are key features that make the conditions different. While they can both cause back pain, spondylosis refers to the normal changes that can occur as we age. Spondylolysis is actually a stress fracture that occurs in a portion of the spine called the “pars,” and commonly caused by overuse.
How spondylosis is diagnosed
If you’re experiencing any spondylosis symptoms, you may be able to skip a trip to your primary care doctor and go straight to making an appointment with a physical therapist. Physical therapy is usually covered, but it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
During your first visit, your physical therapist will likely start with a physical exam that may include:
- Asking you questions about the location and severity of any pain, stiffness or other symptoms you’re experiencing
- Evaluating your range of motion by having you move, bend or twist in different ways
- Testing for muscle weakness in your arms and legs
- Feeling along your spine to help detect any tenderness, or possible muscle spasms, bumps or areas of inflammation
In some cases, your therapist may recommend tests like X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that allow them to take a closer look at your spine.
Treatments for spondylosis
For most people, spondylosis symptoms can be managed with at-home treatments such as over-the-counter pain relievers, hot and cold therapy, and some lifestyle modifications.
Depending on your condition, a spine specialist may also recommend pain psychology, acupuncture or injections for longer-term, yet still temporary, pain relief. And if spondylosis has led to nerve or spinal cord compression, surgery may be helpful to relieve the pressure.
But stretching and activity may be the most important step for managing pain or other spondylosis symptoms. That’s because movement is important for keeping all of your body’s muscles, ligaments and joints in working order. And working with a spine physical therapist can help.
Spine physical therapists can teach you targeted stretches and exercises to strengthen your neck and back to reduce spondylosis-related pain and stiffness. A spine strengthening program is specifically designed for people with chronic back pain.
Take the first step toward neck and back pain relief
While you can’t stop your body from aging, there are steps you can take to manage the neck and back pain that can come with it.
If you’ve recently started noticing regular neck or back pain and stiffness, and it doesn’t seem to be subsiding, a great first step can be making an appointment with a spine physical therapist.
What is Spondylosis?
in Spinal Stenosis, SpineArticle featured on HealthPartners
As we get older, just about every part of our body will experience natural changes. And for many adults, neck and back problems are some of the not-so-fun parts of the aging process.
Spondylosis (or degenerative disc disease) is one of the most common spinal conditions adults experience. In fact, it’s estimated that around 85% of adults over the age of 60 have some degree of spondylosis.
But what is spondylosis exactly? What are the signs and symptoms of spondylosis? Is it treatable? And when should you see a doctor for any neck and back pain you might be experiencing? We answer all these questions and more.
What you should know about spondylosis
Spondylosis, or degenerative disc disease, is a form of arthritis that’s sometimes called spinal osteoarthritis. Spondylosis affects the discs in your spine, which can sometimes lead to neck pain, back pain or loss of normal spinal function.
Aging is the main cause of spondylosis
As you get older every part of your body changes, including vertebra (spinal bones) and spinal discs.
Spinal discs act as cushions between each of your neck and back’s vertebra – these discs are often described as rubbery or jelly-like. But as we age, these discs begin to dry out and thin. And that thinning places stress on every muscle, joint and ligament that holds your spine in place, which can lead to pain and decreased range of motion.
Over time, these spondylotic changes can sometimes lead to compression on one or more of the spinal nerve roots, bone spur growth or herniated discs, which may cause other symptoms.
Risk factors for spondylosis
Spondylosis is very common as you age, and you may not be able to avoid getting it. There are certain risk factors that can speed up the aging process or make you more likely to get spondylosis, including:
The three types of spondylosis: Symptoms and locations
There are three different types of spondylosis. Each type is related to a specific area of your spine where the changes have occurred. These include the cervical (C), thoracic (T) and lumbar (L) regions.
Your spinal column is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae that, in part, consist of seven cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (mid back), and five lumbar (lower back) vertebrae. Between each vertebra is a disc.
The spinal column also has joints called facet joints. Their job is to connect the vertebrae and give them the flexibility to move against each other.
Spondylosis symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may not even notice any neck or back pain or problems. While spondylosis can affect the joints anywhere along the spine, it occurs more commonly in the neck and low back.
What is cervical spondylosis?
Cervical spondylosis affects your neck, which is also called the cervical spine and represents vertebrae C1 to C7. These vertebrae connect your skull to your body and are responsible for motions like turning your head left and right, or nodding your head up and down.
Cervical spondylosis symptoms
Your neck has a big job to do. It supports the weight of your head and a wide range of movements. While many people don’t experience any symptoms of cervical spondylosis, those that do may feel:
Is cervical spondylosis serious?
Most of the time, cervical spondylosis isn’t serious. But in some cases, cervical spondylosis can lead to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which is where the spinal cord and nerves pass through.
If the cord or nerves become compressed (or pinched), you may experience the following symptoms and should see a doctor as soon as possible:
What is thoracic spondylosis?
Your thoracic spine, T1 through T12, picks up where your cervical spine leaves off. It continues to protect your spinal cord, and also connects to and supports your rib cage.
As the “trunk” or middle part of your back, these 12 vertebrae are stable and sturdy. As a result, thoracic spondylosis is the least common type of degenerative disc disease.
Thoracic spondylosis symptoms
Most people do not experience any symptoms. But if symptoms are present, they may include:
Is thoracic spondylosis serious?
Thoracic spondylosis is not usually serious, but it can worsen over time without treatment. Sometimes more serious symptoms can develop. If you experience sudden loss of motor control or walking becomes difficult, get medical care immediately.
What is lumbar spondylosis?
Lumbar spondylosis impacts your lower spine, L1 through L5. More specifically, the lumbar region is the section of the vertebrae between the thoracic spine and the sacrum. It’s the part of the spinal column that supports and distributes most of your body’s weight, making lumbar spondylosis perhaps the most common spinal osteoarthritis condition. In fact, more than 80% of those in the U.S. over the age of 40 may have lumbar spondylosis.
Lumbar spondylosis symptoms
Many people with lumbar spondylosis, don’t have any symptoms or feel pain. But some people experience symptoms such as:
Like with cervical spondylosis, changes in spinal discs in the lumbar region can lead to nerve or cord compression. Disc herniation, which is when a disc slips or bulges through a weakened part of the spine, is also a possibility. Herniated discs are most common in the lower back and are also more common as we get older.
Is lumbar spondylosis serious?
While lumbar spondylosis usually isn’t serious, you should see a doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Spondylosis vs. spondylolysis: What’s the difference?
These two terms may look and sound almost identical, but there are key features that make the conditions different. While they can both cause back pain, spondylosis refers to the normal changes that can occur as we age. Spondylolysis is actually a stress fracture that occurs in a portion of the spine called the “pars,” and commonly caused by overuse.
How spondylosis is diagnosed
If you’re experiencing any spondylosis symptoms, you may be able to skip a trip to your primary care doctor and go straight to making an appointment with a physical therapist. Physical therapy is usually covered, but it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
During your first visit, your physical therapist will likely start with a physical exam that may include:
In some cases, your therapist may recommend tests like X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that allow them to take a closer look at your spine.
Treatments for spondylosis
For most people, spondylosis symptoms can be managed with at-home treatments such as over-the-counter pain relievers, hot and cold therapy, and some lifestyle modifications.
Depending on your condition, a spine specialist may also recommend pain psychology, acupuncture or injections for longer-term, yet still temporary, pain relief. And if spondylosis has led to nerve or spinal cord compression, surgery may be helpful to relieve the pressure.
But stretching and activity may be the most important step for managing pain or other spondylosis symptoms. That’s because movement is important for keeping all of your body’s muscles, ligaments and joints in working order. And working with a spine physical therapist can help.
Spine physical therapists can teach you targeted stretches and exercises to strengthen your neck and back to reduce spondylosis-related pain and stiffness. A spine strengthening program is specifically designed for people with chronic back pain.
Take the first step toward neck and back pain relief
While you can’t stop your body from aging, there are steps you can take to manage the neck and back pain that can come with it.
If you’ve recently started noticing regular neck or back pain and stiffness, and it doesn’t seem to be subsiding, a great first step can be making an appointment with a spine physical therapist.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
How Exercising Safely Contributes to Orthopedic Health and Injury Prevention
in General Orthopedics, Health & WellnessArticle featured on Movement Orthopedics
Engaging in regular physical activity is essential for building strong bones, muscles, and joints, contributing to overall orthopedic health. However, adopting unsafe exercise practices or neglecting proper technique can have adverse effects on your musculoskeletal system, potentially leading to injuries and hindering your orthopedic progress.
Understanding the importance of exercising safely and integrating injury prevention strategies into your workout routine can minimize the risk of setbacks and maximize your orthopedic health benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the impact of exercise on orthopedic health, offer valuable tips and insights on exercising safely, and discuss various injury prevention strategies that can bolster your overall orthopedic wellness.
Whether you are an avid athlete or embarking on your fitness journey, understanding the connection between safe exercise practices and orthopedic health can serve as a foundation for injury prevention and support your long-term well-being.
The Impact of Exercise on Orthopedic Health
Regular exercise and physical activity have numerous benefits for orthopedic health, positively affecting various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, such as:
Safe Exercise: Tips and Strategies
Implementing safe exercise practices and techniques can greatly reduce the risk of injuries and enhance orthopedic health. Consider the following tips and strategies when engaging in physical activity:
Injury Prevention Strategies
Adopt the following injury prevention strategies during your workouts to promote orthopedic health and safe exercise:
The Role of Physical Therapy in Exercise Safety
Physical therapists are experts in movement science and can play a critical role in ensuring exercise safety and injury prevention. They can assess your functional abilities, identify potential risk factors, and provide personalized exercise recommendations and guidance on proper form, technique, and progression. Partnering with a physical therapist can be an invaluable resource for individuals looking to enhance their orthopedic well-being and engage in safe, effective exercise practices.
Conclusion
Engaging in regular exercise is essential for maintaining your orthopedic health, yet it’s crucial to ensure your workouts are conducted safely and effectively. By understanding the impact of exercise on orthopedic health, implementing safe exercise strategies, and incorporating injury prevention techniques, you can enhance your musculoskeletal system’s well-being and reduce the risk of setbacks during your fitness journey. Don’t let pain or injury hold you back from your fitness goals.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Is It Carpal Tunnel or Is It Arthritis?
in Arthritis, Carpal TunnelArticle featured on Orthoaedic Associates
If you are having pain in one or both hands, you may be wondering if carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis are causing you pain. While both conditions can cause pain, there are several key differences between the two. Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause weakness, tingling, or numbness in the hand. Arthritis can also cause pain and make it difficult to grasp things, but for completely different reasons. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by nerve compression and arthritis is caused by inflammation and damage to the joint.
Carpal Tunnel Versus Arthritis
If you have ever had a hand or leg “go to sleep” because of pressure that temporarily cuts off the blood supply, you can get an idea of what carpal tunnel can feel like. The prickling, burning sensation can be similar to the numbness caused by compressing the median nerve, which runs in a narrow tunnel like structure formed by the bones and connective tissues from the elbow to the hand. The tendons and median nerve allow the fingers of your hand to flex and extend.
The median nerve carries impulses to and from the palm side of your hand to the index, middle, and ring fingers, as well as your thumb. If the tissues of the tunnel are irritated (often by stress caused by repetitive movements such as typing), they can swell and place pressure on the nerve.
Arthritis of the hand, however, is caused by a different mechanism, often showing up with a specific pattern in the way it attacks the joints. In the case of arthritis, the lining (synovium) of the joint itself becomes inflamed. This can occur because of osteoarthritis (also called wear and tear arthritis), or other inflammatory processes caused by a defect in the immune response, in which the body attacks otherwise healthy tissue. The symptoms of arthritis include stiffness and soreness of the joint, and frequently starts with the smaller joints of the hands.
Treatments for carpal tunnel and arthritis are also very different. Anti-inflammatory medications can help both. Rest and bracing can also help carpal tunnel, but it is not usually effective with arthritis. Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be relieved by surgery. Except for partial and joint replacement, surgery is not usually considered as a standard treatment for arthritis. Treatment for arthritis usually includes medications, exercise, and rehabilitation. Carpal tunnel may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, surgery, exercise, and rehabilitation.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
How to Train for a Marathon
in Prevention, Wellness TipsArticle featured on Summit Ortho
It’s one of those big, audacious goals that people sometimes dream of achieving: running a marathon. It’s easy to envision crossing the finish line and raising your arms in victory, having accomplished something that few people dare to try. But how do you learn how to train for a marathon?
“Training for a marathon requires consistency, dedication, and patience. You want to find ways to consistently train, which means planning your runs ahead of time and making sure you prioritize them in your daily schedule. It helps to find other runners who are training for a similar race, so you have people to keep you accountable and help you stay motivated,” Dr. Voight said. “Most importantly, you want to be patient with your training, so you don’t increase too quickly and end up with an injury.”
How long does it take to train for a marathon?
A marathon is a long race — 26.2 miles, to be exact. How do you get started, and how long does it take? How do you know how long to train for a marathon? The general answer is that it takes about 16 to 20 weeks to train for a marathon. This is true whether you’re new to running or are a regular runner already.
Your training plan should include three to five running sessions a week, with low-impact exercise, strength training, and rest on the other days. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust your training schedule if you get sick, have scheduling conflicts, or are battling an injury, so it’s good for your schedule to be flexible.
It’s important to keep your expectations realistic as you train. If you are new to running altogether, your goal should be to complete the race, not to finish in a certain time. You may not be able to run for the whole 26.2 miles, and that’s okay.
Marathon training tips
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Back Pain After Pregnancy
in Back Pain, Surgery RecoveryArticle featured on Spine-Health
Persistent or newly developed pain in the lower back after pregnancy, also known as postpartum back pain, usually lasts for 6 months but may continue up to a decade. Postpartum back pain mostly occurs while performing activities that involve body movements, such as walking, lifting, bending, and/or carrying the new baby, and may be relieved with rest, exercise, and home treatments. The type and severity of pain depend on the underlying cause.
Causes of Postpartum Back Pain
The vast majority of women who experience postpartum back pain develop the symptoms due to pregnancy-related changes in the musculoskeletal system that persist after delivery. In some cases, women may undergo bodily trauma during childbirth that directly involves the lower back and pelvic bones, joints, and/or soft tissues, causing additional pain and discomfort. The type of delivery—vaginal, instrumental, or cesarean section (C-section) may also have a role to play in postpartum back pain.
Loss of muscle tone and joint instability
The effects of pregnancy on the muscles and joints in the lower body vary. A surge in the levels of relaxin, estrogen, and progesterone hormones causes considerable joint relaxation during pregnancy. After delivery, the levels of these hormones decline significantly, causing the joints to return to the pre-pregnant state. It takes an average of 6 to 8 weeks for the joints and surrounding tissues to stabilize and bear weight effectively.
The sudden decrease in hormone levels may cause localized and/or overall effects, such as:
If unsupported posture and body mechanics are used at this time, the risk of further trauma to the lower back and hip are higher.
Diastasis recti
The uterus enlarges during pregnancy to accommodate the growing fetus. This change causes the muscles of the abdominal wall to stretch substantially. The stretching results in loss of muscle tone in the abdominal region with the possible separation of certain muscles, such as the rectus abdominis. Women who have poor abdominal muscle tone prior to pregnancy are at a higher risk of separation of the rectus abdominis muscle. This condition is called diastasis recti and causes the muscles to become loose and have poor tone after delivery.
Diastasis recti may compromise postural stability and contribute to lower back and pelvic pain. If the pelvic floor muscles are also weak, urinary incontinence and dysfunction of the pelvic muscles may also occur.
Posterior pelvic pain (pelvic girdle pain)
Pelvic changes begin during pregnancy and while these changes resolve uneventfully in some women, others develop chronicity due to persistent symptoms, which may last for several months to years.
New mothers with posterior pelvic pain experience a continuous, dull pain in the lower back. Some women have more intense symptoms, such as sharp and stabbing pain.
Bruising, fracture, or dislocation of the coccyx
Coccydynia, the medical term for tailbone pain, is a condition that may affect women who have a difficult vaginal delivery due to a large newborn, excessive weight gained during pregnancy, or an instrumental delivery.
The coccygeal segment forms the bottommost part of the spine, and this segment may be forced backward beyond its normal range of motion during childbirth. While this condition is self-limiting and resolves itself in a few weeks or months, the symptoms can be debilitating.
Coccydynia causes severe pain at the very bottom of the spine and makes activities such as getting up from a chair or bed painful.
Sacral stress fracture
Similar to tailbone trauma, the fused vertebrae of the sacral spine in the pelvic region may undergo stress fracture during childbirth. In addition to the risk factors for coccydynia mentioned above, a sacral stress fracture may also occur due to increased curvature in the lower back, the use of blood-thinning agents, such as heparin, or osteoporosis of pregnancy. 8
Sacral stress fractures cause severe pain in the rear pelvic region and make weight-bearing in this region painful. 8 For example, sitting may be notably uncomfortable.
When to See a Doctor
Back pain that does not subside with rest or home treatments, such as a massage, heat therapy, or gentle stretching and exercise, and/or pain that progresses over time may require medical attention. As a general rule, troubling symptoms, such as newly occurring numbness or weakness in the leg(s) or worsening of previous leg pain and numbness symptoms, must be reported to a doctor.
A doctor can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of the pain and formulate a treatment plan. For breastfeeding mothers, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any pain-relieving medication. The type and dosage of pain-relieving medications vary, and not all over-the-counter medications are safe while breastfeeding.
Postpartum back pain may be a continuing symptom of pregnancy or develop as a new symptom after labor and delivery. Failure to adequately treat the symptoms may lead to chronic pain, affect daily functioning, and reduce the overall quality of life. Women are encouraged to seek medical attention to relieve the symptoms and address the underlying problem. Having a pain-free back after labor and delivery will help new mothers care for their newborn more effectively and enjoy the early phases of motherhood.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Understanding Your Pain
in pain reliefArticle featured on WebMD
What’s the Underlying Source of Your Pain?
Does your doctor look perplexed when you explain your symptoms? You’re in distress. but they can’t see why? Do you get the feeling they don’t believe you or they think you’re exaggerating?
In medical school, I was taught about two types of pain. But, a group of people I saw during this time had chronic pain that didn’t fit into either type.
Were these patients imagining their symptoms? Or did the medical profession not understand the complexity of pain? Spoiler: It’s the latter.
Pain Types
Injury.
The first pain type is called nociceptive pain, which is caused by inflammation and tissue damage. This is the type of pain you feel when you experience an injury, like spraining your ankle or breaking a bone. Nociceptive pain feels sharp, aching, or throbbing. Nociceptive pain sends the message that you’re hurt.
Nerve damage.
The second type of pain is called neuropathic pain and is more complicated than the pain from an injury. Neuropathic pain arises from damage to your nerves, which produces sensations of numbness, tingling, or burning. For example, numb fingers from carpal tunnel, or pins and needles from a pinched nerve in your back.
The tricky thing about nerve pain is that your symptoms may persist after your nerve damage has resolved. While an injury to your bones or muscles may heal, once your sensory nerves are injured, they may continue to emit abnormal sensations.
Confused nerves.
The third pain type is perplexing because it doesn’t appear on conventional tests, like X-rays and MRIs. Central sensitization pain or nociplastic pain stems from confused nerves that incorrectly process pain signals.
You feel intense pain, but there’s nothing in your medical tests to provide a clue, which leads to either incorrect treatment or none at all.
What are the signs of central sensitization pain?
The people I saw during my medical training who didn’t fit into the two main pain types, nociceptive or neuropathic, are now understood to have the third type called nociplastic pain. This pain is the result of abnormal processing of pain signals in your brain.
Understanding the type of pain – what’s causing your suffering – is critical to receiving the correct treatment.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
The Importance of Stretching
in Nutrition & General Health, Wellness TipsIt’s not enough to build muscle and achieve aerobic fitness. You need to think about flexibility, too. Stretching can help.
You may think of stretching as something performed only by runners or gymnasts. But we all need to stretch in order to protect our mobility and independence. “A lot of people don’t understand that stretching has to happen on a regular basis.
Why stretching is important
Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints. Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.
For example, sitting in a chair all day results in tight hamstrings in the back of the thigh. That can make it harder to extend your leg or straighten your knee all the way, which inhibits walking. Likewise, when tight muscles are suddenly called on for a strenuous activity that stretches them, such as playing tennis, they may become damaged from suddenly being stretched. Injured muscles may not be strong enough to support the joints, which can lead to joint injury.
Regular stretching keeps muscles long, lean, and flexible, and this means that exertion “won’t put too much force on the muscle itself,” says Nolan. Healthy muscles also help a person with balance problems to avoid falls.
Where to start
With a body full of muscles, the idea of daily stretching may seem overwhelming. But Nolan says you don’t have to stretch every muscle you have. “The areas critical for mobility are in your lower extremities: your calves, your hamstrings, your hip flexors in the pelvis and quadriceps in the front of the thigh.” Stretching your shoulders, neck, and lower back is also beneficial. Aim for a program of daily stretches or at least three or four times per week.
Find a physical therapist (your local Y is a good place to start) who can assess your muscle strength and tailor a stretching program to fit your needs. If you have chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or arthritis, you’ll want to clear a new stretching regimen with your doctor before you start.
The cumulative effect of stretching
Stretching once today won’t magically give you perfect flexibility. You’ll need to do it over time and remain committed to the process. “It may have taken you many months to get tight muscles, so you’re not going to be perfectly flexible after one or two sessions,” says physical therapist David Nolan of Massachusetts General Hospital. “It takes weeks to months to get flexible, and you’ll have to continue working on it to maintain it.”
A hamstring stretch will keep the muscles in the back of your thigh flexible. Sit on the floor with your legs in front of you. Slide your hands down your legs until you feel a burning sensation. Hold for 30 seconds, then slowly return to a sitting position.
Proper execution
We used to believe that stretching was necessary to warm up the muscles and prepare them for activity. However, mounting research has shown that stretching the muscles before they’re warmed up can actually hurt them. “When everything is cold, the fibers aren’t prepared and may be damaged. If you exercise first, you’ll get blood flow to the area, and that makes the tissue more pliable and amenable to change,” says Nolan. All it takes to warm up the muscles before stretching is five to 10 minutes of light activity, such as a quick walk. You can also stretch after an aerobic or weight-training workout.
Hold a stretch for 30 seconds. Don’t bounce, which can cause injury. You’ll feel tension during a stretch, but you should not feel pain. If you do, there may be an injury or damage in the tissue. Stop stretching that muscle and talk to your doctor.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Aches & Pains From Training or Do You Have a Running Injury?
in Health & WellnessWONDERING WHY YOU HAVE PAIN WHEN YOU RUN?
Running can be one of the most effective ways to directly benefit from exercise. Along with the potential to burn calories and lose weight, running can also benefit the body by improving cardiovascular and cognitive health. Many studies show consistent running can help an individual live a longer life. With a list of positive health benefits, it’s no wonder why running is a popular exercise that is part of a variety of training programs for a wide range of sports.
Those who integrate running into their daily or weekly exercise regimens may expose themselves to negative health impacts. Like all other forms of exercise, running can irritate or harm the body. Intense running, prolonged running or even improper running can cause the muscles and joints mild to severe damage. If you are feeling aches and pains throughout your body after training, and wondering, “Why do you have pain when you run?” it’s essential to determine the cause of the discomfort. Though some symptoms are common, others can be the result of a running injury.
Are Body Aches and Pains From Training Normal?
Although exercising does provide the body with many health benefits, part of this process does involve some pain or discomfort. Muscle soreness can be a positive sign that your muscles are beginning to grow and develop. However, soreness can also be a sign that your muscles or joints are negatively receiving stress that could lead to aches, pains and potentially even an injury. There are a variety of causes of running injuries:
How Common Are Running Injuries?
Slight aches and pains are typical for those who integrate running into their training programs. Many of these symptoms are signs the body is improving in a healthy way. Unfortunately, even mild aches and pains could be symptoms of a much more serious health issue. Muscle and joint injuries are quite common among runners, and these ailments can range from temporary discomfort that requires rest to chronic pain that requires medical intervention.
Broadly, there are four separate categories of runners, based on the prevalence of their exercise. Marathon runners are the most intense of the group, and more than half these individuals suffer an injury each year. Only 32 percent of long-distance runners face running injuries annually, while 27 percent of novice runners incur injuries. However, novice runners are twice as likely to sustain an injury than those who run recreationally.
Regardless of whether an individual is focused on running or uses this exercise as part of their training regimen, all athletes can sustain an injury from running. Those who are beginning to run or are increasing their speed or distance may overextend themselves and cause physical pain. Even experienced runners and longtime athletes can suffer an injury due to overrunning.
Signs You’re Overrunning
Although exercise is healthy, too much exercise can be damaging to the body. Overtraining by overrunning could lead to minor aches and pains or major injuries to your muscles and joints. However, there are also other ways your body may alert you that your exercise routine is harmful. Signs that you may be overrunning include:
Common Aches and Pains From Running
There are many areas of the body where you may feel mild or moderate discomfort while running. Many of these symptoms will present themselves below the waist as pain in your legs, feet, thighs, shins, knees or ankles after running. Aches and pains may be apparent before, during or after exercise. Some discomfort may immediately dissipate when activity ceases, while other irritations may linger for days or weeks.
RUNNER’S KNEE
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, more commonly called runner’s knee, is a common condition among those who engage in high amounts of cardio activity. Over-exercising or abnormal tracking of the kneecap could cause symptoms which include dull pains at the front of the knee and popping or cracking sounds when the knee is in motion. These symptoms can be apparent during exercise or regular daily activity.
SHIN SPLINTS
There is a close association between running and this common exercise problem, and runners especially are at a higher risk of feeling this discomfort. Shin splints can develop when novice runners overextend themselves as they begin exercising, or when consistent runners change the intensity or duration of their workouts. When the muscles, tendons and bone tissue around the tibia bone become stressed from overwork, they cause the runner to feel pain around the area where the muscles connect to the shin bone.
Sudden changes in the intensity of duration of physical activity can cause shin splints. Individuals who are naturally flat-footed or who are using inadequate footwear may develop this discomfort. Symptoms include sharp or dull throbbing during or after exercise and when touching the area. Shin splint symptoms may also be signs of chronic exertional compartment syndrome, which occurs when the pressure in the shin muscles builds.
PLANTAR FASCIITIS
As the most common cause of pain on the bottom of the heel, plantar fasciitis results from the tissues on the arch of the foot becoming irritated and inflamed from damage or tearing. Though this can occur in any individual, certain risk factors like high-impact or increased activity can increase the likelihood of symptoms. Pain or discomfort usually occurs after exercise or after long periods of inactivity.
MUSCLE STRAIN
A muscle strain, or a pulled muscle, is a familiar muscular condition athletes and nonathletes can face. A strain occurs when muscles or tendons get stretched or torn. Most mild strains may include symptoms like pain, muscle spasms, swelling around the area or the inability to move the affected muscle. Muscle strains can occur in all parts of the body.
Though the issues above are common training injuries and causes of pain when running, their symptoms may also be signs of a more serious underlying problem. If you experience pain or discomfort in your lower extremities before, during or after your run, we suggest you consult a physician.
Types of Running Injuries and Their Symptoms
Runners can alleviate many of their aches and pains with minimal resources, and they heal in a relatively brief time. Some of these conditions won’t require the individual to alter their exercise routine heavily. However, larger issues like injuries may need more detailed treatment plans that could include surgical procedures.
ILIOTIBIAL BAND SYNDROME
IT band syndrome is a common cause of knee pain in those who exercise, and can be challenging to treat. Pain results when friction causes the band to become inflamed and begin to rub against the bone. Discomfort is typically between the hip and the top of the knee. However, because the pain can be challenging to pinpoint, a medical professional may mistakenly diagnose IT band syndrome as another injury like a lateral meniscal tear or stress fracture.
ACHILLES TENDONITIS
Achilles tendonitis is a common condition in which the Achilles tendon becomes irritated and inflamed from repeated stress. Depending on which part of the tendon it affects, this condition could manifest in one of two ways. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis causes the middle portion of the tendon to tear, swell and thicken. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower part of the tendon and may cause bone spurs. Both forms of Achilles tendonitis may also cause the tendon fibers to calcify.
STRESS FRACTURES
Stress fractures are some of the most common injuries athletes face due to overuse. Increased frequency or intensity while running or doing other forms of cardio can cause these fractures, as can other stressors like hard surfaces, improper equipment and added stress on the bones. More than half of stress fractures occur in the bones of the lower leg, placing runners at an increased risk. Pain is present during activity and recedes with rest. Untreated stress fractures could become breaks if runners place more stress on the area.
How to Tell the Difference Between a Running Injury and Normal Discomfort From Running and Rigorous Training
It can be difficult to determine whether the discomfort you’re feeling during or after your workout is a typical case of muscle soreness, or if you’ve sustained an injury. Though each case is unique, some features can help you begin to distinguish injury pain from soreness and discomfort.
Features of Aches and Discomfort
Features of Pain
Each person has a different tolerance for pain, and because many of these injuries could be masking themselves as mild soreness, it’s crucial to assess your symptoms before exercising again. If you believe your aches could potentially be a running injury, ask yourself the following questions:
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
Why Back Pain is Difficult to Treat
in Back PainSame Pain, Different Problems
Herniated disk. Helen had a herniated disk. The disk caused inflammation and nerve irritation, which resulted in fiery pain down her leg. Standard treatments for a herniated disk include physical therapy, medications, steroid injections, and time for healing.
Nerve sensitization. Nancy’s pain stemmed from nerve sensitization or nociplastic pain. Nociplastic pain arises from abnormal pain processing in the brain and nerves. Nerves become more sensitive and reactive to stimuli, exaggerating pain signals to the brain.
Nancy’s back and leg pain had slowly worsened over the past year. She developed pain hypersensitivity where simple, everyday movements—like getting up from the couch and walking to the kitchen—had become increasingly uncomfortable. Her symptoms also spread. Instead of pain in a small area of her back, she felt it across her back, down her thighs, and enveloping her leg.
You Can Have Both Sources of Pain at the Same Time
A mixed pain state is when you have injury pain and sensitization pain simultaneously. For example, you have back pain arising from a herniated disk and sensitization. Sensitization amplifies the pain signal that is already present. The two pain sources overlap into one set of symptoms, making it difficult to discern where the discomfort arises from.
For back pain, three different pain scenarios are possible:
For example, Helen, with a herniated disc, responded well to treatment with physical therapy and a steroid injection. On the other hand, Nancy did not respond to those interventions. The correct target for her treatment is the nervous system. You don’t put a cast on a paralyzed arm from a stroke because the cause of the injury isn’t in the arm; it’s in the brain. The problem is deeper in the nervous system. The same is true when treating sensitization.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm
What Should I Do When My Foot or Ankle Pain Won’t Go Away?
in Feet, Foot Pain, Legs & FeetArticle featured on PennMedicine
Foot and ankle pain is a common source of frustration because it often involves small bones, ligaments, and/or tendons, all of which can heal at somewhat unpredictable rates. A little patience is in order. But what can you do when your patience starts to wear thin because your pain doesn’t feel like it’s gotten any better over time? This article will offer some guidance.
Managing Foot or Ankle Pain Caused by an Injury
Foot or ankle pain caused by an injury occurs suddenly and includes conditions such as sprains and fractures.
What should I do after a foot or ankle injury?
If your foot or ankle pain is the result of an injury, in the moments immediately following, treating it with the tried-and-true acronym RICE, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Try to spend as little time on your feet over the next few days as work and life will allow.
Light compression and keeping your injured foot or ankle elevated above the level of your heart will help minimize swelling. She says a heating pad can make the injury feel better initially, but because it opens blood vessels in the injured area, it can ultimately make the inflammation worse. Ice, on the other hand, will constrict the blood vessels, reducing inflammation.
When should I see a doctor for my foot or ankle injury?
Many foot and ankle injuries may be treated at home, but there are some symptoms that require immediate medical attention. They include:
Otherwise, if the pain hasn’t lessened after about three to five days of treating your injury at home, it is best to see your primary care physician. They may order x-rays and, depending on what they show, refer you to a specialist.
Managing Foot or Ankle Pain Caused by Overuse
Foot and ankle pain can also occur slowly over time as a result of overuse and include conditions such as Achilles tendinitis and stress fractures.
The hallmark of an overuse foot or ankle injury is an aching pain that comes on gradually. You may start to notice discomfort in the area of the injury during certain activities. Eventually, it will become more persistent. Achilles tendonitis, for example, may be agitated only during runs or long walks initially. Left unchecked, running will become impossible, and simple everyday activities, like making dinner, will feel like they’re straining the tendon.
What should I do at the first sign of foot or ankle pain caused by overuse?
Similar to the advice above for an injury, treat the initial pain with RICE and acetaminophen or ibuprofen. In some cases, overuse injuries will heal on their own with at-home treatment and time off from activities that put stress on the injured area.
Exactly how much time off will depend on the type and severity of the injury. In general, you can return to light activity that involves the injured area if you haven’t experienced pain there, without the use of ibuprofen or acetaminophen, for a week. If, after another week, you’re still pain-free, you can gradually ramp up your intensity. But be honest with your self-assessments. If you feel any discomfort, limit your activity and continue resting.
When should I see a doctor for my foot or ankle pain caused by overuse?
The vast majority of overuse foot or ankle injuries do not require immediate medical attention. The exception is those that escalate to the point of causing any of the symptoms listed above for an injury that would prompt urgent treatment.
Aside from these instances, the guidance is similar to that of a foot or ankle injury: If the pain hasn’t diminished or resolved after about three to five days of treating it at home, see your primary care physician. They will help address your concerns by performing a thorough examination, obtaining x-rays, and initiating a consultation/referral to an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist.
Why should I consult an orthopaedic surgeon for my foot or ankle pain?
As mentioned earlier, feet and ankles can be finicky. For that very reason, consulting an orthopaedic surgeon should be your next step if your primary care physician refers you to a specialist. Orthopaedic surgeons undergo rigorous training.
While waiting for the x-rays, the Dr will ask about the patient’s medical conditions, past injuries, general lifestyle, and what sorts of physical activity they engage in on a regular basis. The responses, along with the x-rays and observations during a physical exam, will help develop a more complete understanding of the injury and inform treatment strategy.
Often, patients will want to know if they did anything that made their foot or ankle more susceptible to injury so that they won’t unknowingly cause another injury. They sometimes also ask if this is something that could get better on its own.
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
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm