How Retraining Your Brain Could Help With Lower Back Pain

Article featured on WebMD

Are you among the hundreds of millions of people worldwide with low back pain? If so, you may be familiar with standard treatments like surgery, shots, medications, and spinal manipulations. But new research suggests the solution for the world’s leading cause of disability may lie in fixing how the brain and the body communicate.

Setting out to challenge traditional treatments for chronic back pain, scientists across Australia, Europe, and the U.S. came together to test the effectiveness of altering how neural networks recognize pain for new research.

The randomized clinical trial recruited two groups of 138 participants with chronic low back pain, testing one group with a novel method called graded sensorimotor retraining intervention (RESOLVE) and the other with things like mock laser therapy and noninvasive brain stimulation.

The researchers found the RESOLVE 12-week training course resulted in a statistically significant improvement in pain intensity at 18 weeks.

“What we observed in our trial was a clinically meaningful effect on pain intensity and a clinically meaningful effect on disability. People were happier, they reported their backs felt better, and their quality of life was better,” the study’s lead author, James McAuley, PhD, said in a statement. “This is the first new treatment of its kind for back pain.”

Brainy Talk

Communication between your brain and back changes over time when you have chronic lower back pain, leading the brain to interpret signals from the back differently and change how you move. It is thought that these neural changes make recovery from pain slower and more complicated , according to the Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), a nonprofit research institute in Sydney, Australia.

“Over time, the back becomes less fit, and the way the back and brain communicate is disrupted in ways that seem to reinforce the notion that the back is vulnerable and needs protecting,” said McAuley, a professor at the University of New South Wales and a NeuRA senior research scientist. “The treatment we devised aims to break this self-sustaining cycle.”

RESOLVE treatment focuses on improving this transformed brain-back communication by slowly retraining the body and the brain without the use of opioids or surgery. People in the study have reported improved quality of life 1 year later, according to McAuley.The researchers said the pain improvement was “modest,” and the method will need to be tested on other patients and conditions. They hope to introduce this new treatment to doctors and physiotherapists within the next 6 to 9 months and have already enlisted partner organizations to start this process, according to NeuRA.

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, 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 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

Possible Ways to Fall Into Back Pain

Article featured on Atlanta Spine Institute

A chill in the air, sweaters, football, pumpkin spice, and colorful leaves are all signs that fall is here. Cold weather is coming, which means this is your last chance before winter to get those outdoor maintenance tasks done that you’ve been avoiding in the summer heat. Injuries from cleaning are more common than you’d think, and millions of people visit the ER every year for anything from improper lifting to lawnmower accidents. We all want to get our outdoor chores done, but it’s best to avoid them making us sore! Back injuries, muscle strains, injuries from repetitive motion, accidents, and tendonitis all top the list for common fall cleaning injuries. Never underestimate the falls, slips, and trips that can happen in the blink of an eye!

Stay ahead of these injuries with the tips below to help prevent fall injuries happening to you!

Rake Smart

If you’ve ever raked a yard, you know it’s no joke. It can be a full-blown exercise routine, depending on the yard. Take these tips into consideration before you get started this fall!

  1. Warm Up: You don’t exercise without stretching first, so don’t rake either. Stretch for at least ten minutes first.
  2. Size Matters: Make sure you buy a rake that is comfortable for your strength and height. Some rakes come with padded handles to prevent blisters. If they don’t, get some gloves to protect your hands.
  3. See Clear: We know it’s chilly, but keep hats and scarves out of your line of vision. It’s easier to avoid tripping if you can see what’s in front of you on the ground!
  4. Alternate: If you hold the rake the same way the whole time, it will cause strain and soreness in certain muscles. Switch hand and foot position to avoid overusing the same muscles.
  5. Bend Your Knees: When picking up leaves or branches, make sure to bend at your knees. This will help prevent injuring your back.
  6. Resist the Slip: With fall comes rain, which can make for slippery leaves. Wear footwear that is slip-resistant to avoid slipping on wet leaves or grass.
  7. Keep It Light: Too many leaves can be too heavy, especially if they’re wet. Pack your bags light to avoid carrying too much weight to help prevent back strain.

Mow Safe

Maybe you mow the lawn regularly, or maybe it’s your first time. Either way, there are certain precautions anyone should take while operating a lawnmower.

  1. Turn It Off: Of course you need power to mow the lawn, but you need gas to get the power! Before you refuel your mower or perform any maintenance, make sure the engine is off and cool.
  2. Keep Your Extremities Away: Never clear debris from under the mower with your hands or feet; instead, use a broom or sturdy stick. Just keep your hands and feet away from the blades at all times. Even if the engine is off, don’t risk it.
  3. Keep Your Guard Up: Some lawnmowers come with guards, shields, and/or safety devices. Do not remove these! They are there for your protection.
  4. Turn It Off: Oh, was this already mentioned? Never leave your lawn mower unattended while running. Just don’t.
  5. Wear Shoes. Good Shoes.: Don’t mow the lawn barefoot, or in sandals. Tennis shoes are made for physical activity and you could be on your feet for a couple of hours with a push mower. Even on a riding mower, wear tennis shoes. They help protect your feet from debris.
  6. No Drinking: Well, you should drink water, but no alcoholic beverages. It seems like common sense to not be inebriated while operating a machine, but it needs to be said.
  7. Release: Buy a mower that has safety features like handle release. This stops the mower from moving forward if you let go of the handle.
  8. No Children: A young person should be at least 12 years old with supervision and training to operate a lawnmower. They should be 16 to operate a push mower.

Climb Carefully

When falling leaves clog up the gutters, it’s time to bring out the ladder. It’s very easy to get hurt using ladders, so take these tips into consideration the next time you climb one.

  1. Inspect: Any time you use a ladder, make sure you inspect it first. Check for loose screws and hinges, and clean off anything on the ladder like mud or liquids to avoid slipping.
  2. Level: Use a level and firm surface on which to place the ladder. Make sure all four legs are stationed evenly. Soft ground will cause it to move or tilt.
  3. Engage: Before you climb, make sure safety braces and hinges are engaged.
  4. Avoid the Top: Do not stand or sit on the pail shelf of a ladder (it’s the very top). This is not meant to support the weight of a person.
  5. Choose Wisely: If you don’t have the right ladder for the job, don’t do the job until you do. Use a step or utility ladder for low or medium heights and for high heights use an extension ladder.
  6. Get Off: If you get uncomfortable and need to stretch while you’re on a ladder, get off. It’s better to take the extra ten seconds to climb down and reposition. Tilting the ladder even a bit because you are stretching could cause it to tip over.

Remember

Not every tip can be categorized. Here you will find some other tips to remember this fall while working hard.

  1. Stretch Again: It’s best to stretch before any physical activity, but most people don’t remember to stretch again when they’re done. Just a quick ten minutes when you’re done will do your body wonders, and it’s a nice, relaxing cool-down.
  2. Water. Water. Water.: Remember to stay hydrated. Make sure you take breaks for water. If it’s hard for you to remember to take a break, then set an alarm on your phone.
  3. Dress Appropriately: When working outdoors in the fall, it’s good to dress in long sleeves and pants. The thicker the material the better, but it needs to be weather-appropriate also. Sleeves and jeans help protect your skin from bug bites, scratches, and sunburn.
  4. Goggles: If you’re using motorized equipment, remember to wear safety goggles. This protects your eyes from debris and dirt.
  5. Earmuffs: Same as with goggles, especially if the equipment is loud. Protect your hearing.
  6. Mask and Gloves: Chemicals are contained in things like fertilizer and insect poison. Gloves and a mask will help prevent inhalation of toxic chemicals. Also, keep anything with toxic chemicals away from pets and children.

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, 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 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

Best Exercises for Lower Back Pain Flare-Ups

Article featured on ProTailored

Why Do I Have Low Back Pain?

Low back pain is pain that occurs below the ribs, in the lumbar region of the spine. There are many causes of low back pain. Muscle tightness, injury to the ligaments or discs in the back, or problems with the bones and joints may lead to low back pain. Common causes include improper lifting, poor posture, lack of regular exercise, fracture, ruptured disk, or arthritis. Almost everyone will experience some level of low back pain at some point. Most of the time, your back will start to feel better on its own. However, sometimes the pain will not go away on its own and will require some form of intervention. Physical therapy is a great option to help with low back pain. Our physical therapists can do a full evaluation to determine what may be causing the irritation/inflammation/pain. The treatments will be focused on addressing the cause of the inflammation and helping to decrease pain levels.

Risk Factors for Low Back Pain

Some risk factors of developing low back pain include repetitive movements such as lifting, pulling, or anything that twists the spine. However, sitting at a desk all day can also be hard on your back, especially if your low back is not well supported, or you sit with poor posture.

Prevention of Low Back Pain

Prevention of the low back includes maintaining proper posture while sitting, but also while lifting or pulling. You want to make sure that you bend at the knees and lift with the legs rather than with your back. Exercise and having strong abdominal and back muscles can also help in the prevention of low back pain. If you are prone to low back pain, you may also want to try sleeping on a firm surface, sitting in supportive chairs (that are the correct height), and avoiding high-heeled shoes.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Our physical therapists will do a thorough examination to help determine the source of your pain. They will then work towards decreasing the source of the irritation with the use of manual techniques, cupping, scraping, dry needling, and therapeutic exercises. They will also help you determine things to do at home to help you manage and decrease your pain, and work towards preventing future pain.

What Should I Do During Flare-Ups or When I Have a Lot of Pain in the Low Back?

One of the best things that you can do when you have a flare-up or high levels of pain in the low back is to keep the back moving. Your pain levels may be so high that all you want to do is find a comfortable position and not move for a while. However, motion is key in helping alleviate low back pain. But there is a balance here, as you do not want to overdo it and create more pain. Therefore, the best thing to do is work in PAIN-FREE RANGES OF MOTION. That means movements that you can tolerate and that do not increase your pain.

Best Exercises for Flare-Ups of Low Back Pain

Lower Trunk Rotations

  • Start by lying on your back with both knees bent
  • Slowly rock your knees together to one side; hold for a second or two and then rock to the other side
  • If you have sharp pain with this motion, do not go as far!
  • This should feel like a stretch and should not be a sharp pain!
  • Complete slow rotations back and forth 20x

Single Knee to Chest

  • Start by lying on your back with both knees bent
  • Bring one knee up to your chest and hold for 5-10 seconds
  • Repeat on the other side
  • Do this exercise 10x on each side
  • If you have sharp pain with this motion, do not go as far!
  • This should feel like a stretch and should not be a sharp pain!

Pelvic Tilts

  • Start by lying on your back with both knees bent
  • Slowly flatten your back into the table
  • Then slowly rock your pelvis forward so that only your low back lifts off the table
  • Do this exercise back and forth slowly 20x
  • If you have sharp pain with this motion, do not go as far!
  • This should feel like a stretch and should not be a sharp pain!

Piriformis stretch

  • Start by lying on your back with both knees bent
  • Bring one leg up and place your ankle on your opposite knee
  • Use your hand to put pressure on your knee until you feel a stretch
  • Hold this position for 30 seconds and repeat 3x on each side
  • If you have sharp pain with this motion, do not go as far!
  • This should feel like a stretch and should not be a sharp pain!

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, 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 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 Walk Towards Healthier Knees

Article featured on ScienceDaily

A new study published today in Arthritis & Rheumatology led by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine reveals that walking for exercise can reduce new frequent knee pain among people age 50 and older diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. Additionally, findings from the study indicate that walking for exercise may be an effective treatment to slow the damage that occurs within the joint.

“Until this finding, there has been a lack of credible treatments that provide benefit for both limiting damage and pain in osteoarthritis,” said Dr. Grace Hsiao-Wei Lo, assistant professor of immunology, allergy and rheumatology at Baylor, chief of rheumatology at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and first author of the paper.

The researchers examined the results of the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a multiyear observational study where participants self-reported the amount of time and frequency they walked for exercise. Participants who reported 10 or more instances of exercise from the age of 50 years or later were classified as “walkers” and those who reported less were classified as “non-walkers.”

Those who reported walking for exercise had 40% decreased odds of new frequent knee pain compared to non-walkers.

“These findings are particularly useful for people who have radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis but don’t have pain every day in their knees,” said Lo, who also is an investigator at the Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety at Baylor and the VA. “This study supports the possibility that walking for exercise can help to prevent the onset of daily knee pain. It might also slow down the worsening of damage inside the joint from osteoarthritis.”

Lo said that walking for exercise has added health benefits such as improved cardiovascular health and decreased risk of obesity, diabetes and some cancers, the driving reasons for the Center for Disease Control recommendations on physical activity, first published in 2008 and updated in 2018. Walking for exercise is a free activity with minimal side effects, unlike medications, which often come with a substantial price tag and possibility of side effects.

“People diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis should walk for exercise, particularly if they do not have daily knee pain,” advises Lo. “If you already have daily knee pain, there still might be a benefit, especially if you have the kind of arthritis where your knees are bow-legged.”


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, 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 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 to Do When You Overdo It

Article featured on Summit Ortho

Summer is a glorious season when we can enjoy getting out into our state’s natural beauty after a cold winter. In the summer months, people flock outside to the garden and do yard work; play sports like golf, tennis, or tennis; do spring cleaning; or go hiking, cycling, or swimming. With all of these options at our fingertips, it’s easy to overdo it.

Getting active is good, but if you overdo it, you might find yourself having aches and pains in joints and tendons or even numbness or tingling of fingers.

What to do if you overdo it

  1. Ice is best in the first few hours or days after an overuse injury — 20 minutes two to four times a day is good.
  2. Gentle massage and stretching is also helpful. Ice can make the area feel stiff, so ease into massage and stretching after ice.
  3. If the pain persists, heat might be more helpful in the days to follow. “Heat can be especially helpful if you suspect any arthritis pain could be contributing to your situation,” Evenson said.

How to avoid overdoing it next time

Evenson is a big proponent of prevention. “A few simple steps can prevent overuse injuries from happening in the first place,” she said.

Here are some quick prevention tips:

  • Don’t skimp on the warmup — five to 10 minutes of dynamic warmups, that is, gently going through the motions you’ll be using during the activity itself, will help warm up the muscles and lubricate the joints, getting them ready for the full activity.
  • Take breaks periodically — doing a half hour each day is better than doing four hours in one day.
  • Use good ergonomic tools and good body mechanics during the activity.
  • Start slowly — tennis may be your new favorite sport, but you’ll want to cut your play sessions short at first to avoid injuries.
  • Stretch after the activity — static stretching for up to 30 seconds can help with flexibility.
  • Know — and heed! — your limits.
  • Stay hydrated — good hydration will help prevent injury.

If your discomfort and irritation have lingered for more than a week after overdoing it, even with at-home treatment, it’s time to make an appointment with your primary care provider or orthopedic specialist. “People say all the time, ‘I wish I hadn’t waited so long to come in.’ If you haven’t seen improvement after a week, it’s a good idea to get it checked out,” Evenson said.


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, 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 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

Therapeutic Massage for Pain Relief

Article featured on Brigham Health Hub

A therapeutic massage involves the application of the hands or elbows with the intention of solving a physical problem, such as back pain. Alternatively, non-therapeutic or relaxation massage is more passive and is typically used to promote comfort.

“Therapeutic massage can be used to treat a range of conditions, the most common of which is low back pain, followed by neck and shoulder pain. I also use therapeutic massage to treat headaches, jaw pain and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ),” says Arthur Madore, LMT, a licensed massage therapist at the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

What are the benefits of therapeutic massage?

Most massage techniques are designed to promote pain relief, stress reduction, and improved movement in daily living.

Therapeutic massage has been shown to improve joint flexibility, relieve lower-back pain, and stimulate the release of endorphins. It can also be used to treat and prevent the following conditions:

  • Arthritis
  • Sports injuries, work-related injuries, and repetitive strain injuries (carpal tunnel, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, bursitis)
  • Anxiety, depression, tension, and stress
  • Walking or running-related pain
  • Poor posture and suboptimal use of the body in movement

“Therapeutic massage manipulates the body’s soft tissue, so it also stimulates the flow of fluid in the lymphatic system, which can improve natural immunity. In addition, when received soon after surgery, therapeutic massage can help reduce post-surgery swelling or adhesions,” says Madore.

What are the various massage techniques?

The first massage technique that most therapists learn is Swedish massage which involves the application of oil and is used to promote relaxation.

Other massage styles and techniques include:

  • Reiki: Involves light touch, and is designed to work with the body’s energy.
  • Craniosacral therapy: Involves only five grams of pressure, and influences the central nervous system.
  • Deep tissue massage: Uses intense pressure and targets the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons and fascia.
  • Rolfing and myofascial release: Involves more aggressive techniques that aim to manipulate the soft tissues.

Madore specializes in Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT), a technique that releases trigger points within tight muscles. NMT is used to create balance among muscle groups to correct postural strain patterns.

“The treatment is based on pain patterns, but also on an assessment of how a patient’s muscle tension is producing twists or other alignment problems,” says Madore.

How often should you visit a massage therapist?

For individuals without a particular problem, visiting a licensed massage therapist once a month is appropriate. For those with a condition such as back pain, it may be appropriate to work with a massage therapist three-to-six times within a short period of time.


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, 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 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

Symptoms & Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Article featured on MedlinePlus

What is a rotator cuff?

Your rotator cuff is part of your shoulder joint. It’s a group of muscles and tendons that holds the top part of your upper arm bone firmly in your shoulder socket. The rotator cuff keeps your shoulder stable when you move your arm in any direction.

What are rotator cuff injuries?

Rotator cuff injuries are common. Most of them are wear-and-tear injuries from doing the same arm movements over and over – especially reaching over your head. With time, the tissues in the rotator cuff break down, leading to these injuries:

  • Tendinitis. The tendons in the rotator cuff connect your muscles to your shoulder bones. In tendinitis, the tendons become irritated and swollen from being pinched during shoulder movements.
  • Bursitis. The bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that pads the space between the rotator cuff and the bones of your shoulder. Bursitis happens when the muscle and bone rub the bursa too much. It swells with extra fluid, which causes pain
  • Rotator cuff tears. Tears in a rotator cuff tendon can happen over time or suddenly from an injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm or lifting something heavy. A tear may go part way through a tendon (partial tear) or all the way through (full tear).

Who is more likely to develop a rotator cuff injury?

Anyone can develop a rotator cuff injury. But certain people are more likely to have one:

  • People over age 40. Most rotator cuff injuries are from the wear and tear of aging. By age 80, most adults have tears.
  • Athletes. Playing sports with repeated shoulder movements increases the risk of a rotator cuff injury, for example, tennis, swimming, and baseball – especially pitching.
  • People in jobs that require a lot of reaching overhead or heavy lifting. Carpenters, construction workers, and painters are examples of workers who may be more likely to have rotator cuff problems.

What are the symptoms of rotator cuff injuries?

Rotator cuff injuries don’t always cause pain. But when they do, the pain is often in the top part of your arm or shoulder. You may feel more pain when you:

  • Lie down, especially on the injured shoulder
  • Lift your arm or lower it to the front or side
  • Reach behind your back

Other symptoms from a torn rotator cuff may include:

  • Loss of strength in the arm
  • Clicking or popping sounds when you move your arm

How are rotator cuff injuries diagnosed?

To find out if you have a rotator cuff injury, your health care provider:

  • Will examine your shoulder. This includes checking the range of motion and where the pain is.
  • Will test your arm and shoulder strength.
  • May order imaging tests, such as x-rays, an ultrasound, or an MRI scan.

What are the treatments for rotator cuff injuries?

The best treatment for you depends on your age, how much your injury bothers you, and whether your injury was sudden or happened from wear and tear.

Treatments for rotator cuff injuries often include:

  • Rest
  • Putting ice or a cold pack on the sore area
  • Pain relievers to lessen pain and swelling, such as ibuprofen or aspirin
  • Physical therapy exercises to strengthen your shoulder and improve movement
  • A corticosteroid shot into your shoulder joint if other treatments don’t help with the pain

Treatments for rotator cuff tendinitis and bursitis may also include ultrasound therapy. Surgery may be an option if your shoulder doesn’t feel better in 6 to 12 months.

Treatments for a torn rotator cuff may also include heat to the sore area or electrical stimulation of the nerves and muscles (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, TENS).

You provider may suggest surgery if your tear is large or is from a recent injury, or symptoms last for 6 to 12 months.

When should I see a health care provider for shoulder pain?

If certain activities bother your shoulder, it’s best to stop doing them and check with your provider. That’s because early treatment can prevent mild rotator cuff injuries from becoming more serious later on. If you your arm feels weak right after a sudden injury to your shoulder, see your provider as soon as possible.


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, 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 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 Often to Work Out for Strength, Weight Loss, and Health

Article featured on MedicalNewsToday

How often a person needs to work out to see results will depend on their fitness goals. Losing weight, building muscle, and increasing endurance and stamina each require a different approach to training.

Exercise has a range of important benefits. It enhances overall health, helps a person maintain moderate weight, relieves stress, and can promote restful sleep.

Due to this, what people wish to achieve through exercise differs among individuals. Some people may use exercise as a weight loss technique, whereas others may want to build their strength.

This article addresses how often a person should work out based on their particular goals.

It is advisable to consult a doctor before starting any workout or strength training program, as they can offer advice on how to work out safely and minimize the risk of injury.

How often to work out for weight loss

At its most basic level, weight loss is about solving a math problem.

A person must burn off more calories than they take in on a daily basis. Some of the ways a person can accomplish this include:

  • eating fewer calories each day than they burn off
  • increasing their physical activity to burn off more calories
  • increasing their muscle mass so that they burn more calories at rest

There is controversy surrounding whether exercise alone is enough to achieve weight loss.

For example, some research suggests that exercise can cause the body to start to compensate by adjusting metabolism as a means to hold on to body fat.

Exercise still has a role to play in weight loss, but for maximum benefits, a person should combine it with a healthful calorie-controlled diet that reduces their calorie intake.

Researchers also note that continuing to exercise after weight loss can help stop people from regaining the weight.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommend a combination of cardiovascular training and strength training to boost health and burn calories.

Cardiovascular training

The AHA recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity throughout the week.

A person can also engage in a mix of moderate intensity and vigorous activities should they prefer.

Example of moderate intensity activities include:

  • brisk walking at a speed of at least 2.5 miles per hour (mph)
  • dancing
  • gardening
  • riding a bicycle slower than 10 mph
  • tennis
  • water aerobics

Examples of vigorous activities include:

  • hiking, particularly uphill or while wearing a heavy pack
  • jumping rope
  • running
  • swimming
  • taking an aerobics class
  • vigorous yard work, such as digging

Ultimately, a person can gain the greatest health benefits by engaging in at least 5 hours of physical activity a week.

Strength training

Strength training involves using resistance to build muscle.

Muscle can help make the body more metabolically active, increasing the rate at which it burns calories.

The AHA recommend engaging in moderate-to-high intensity resistance training on at least 2 days of the week. Examples of approaches to resistance training include:

  • Lifting weights: This could involve using weight machines or free weights to perform exercises such as biceps curls, bench presses, and leg presses.
  • Using body weight for resistance: Exercise examples include lunges, squats, and tricep dips. A person does not require any equipment to do these.
  • Using resistance bands: Resistance bands are stretchy elastic bands that help increase the amount that a person’s muscles must work. Resistance bands vary in tightness, with tighter ones increasing the exercise intensity. A person can perform exercises such as squats, lunges, biceps curls, and triceps extensions using resistance bands.

Anyone who is new to exercise and unsure where to begin may wish to consult a certified personal trainer. A trainer can advise the individual on what exercises are suitable for their level of health and fitness, as well as how to perform them correctly and safely.

Summary

Exercise programs for enhancing aerobic capacity and building muscle strength can vary.

Often, the “best” exercise program is the one that a person is willing and able to perform on a routine basis.

With regular efforts and increasing intensity, a person should see their desired results over time.


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, 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 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

7 Most Common Accidents and Injuries During Back to School

Article featured on HealthPartners

Whether your kiddo is a little daredevil or just a bit klutzy, accidents happen.

The good news is that most mishaps result in minor injuries that can be treated with a dab of antibacterial ointment, a little rest, and lots of hugs and kisses. But the reality is that every tumble has the potential to be “the big one” – an injury that has you speeding toward the nearest hospital.

But it’s a fine line. What kinds of child injuries really raise the boo-boo bar? When is a trip to urgent care enough? And when might you need to seek highly-specialized emergency care at a pediatric trauma center?

1. Falls: The most common cause of injury for kids of all ages

Falls are the leading cause of injury among children. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that roughly 8,000 children are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fall-related injuries every day.

When and where are falls most likely to happen?

Playgrounds, especially slides and monkey bars, are some of the most common causes of injury. Other common fall hazards include:

  • Stairs
  • Beds without railings
  • Windows
  • Elevated landings
  • Baby walkers
  • Slippery bathtubs
  • Cluttered pathways

Also, while falls are the most common injury for kids of all ages, babies and toddlers are especially fall-prone. Little humans simply don’t have the same movement control and balance that older kids and adults do. Of course, there are numerous child fall prevention best practices that can help reduce the chances of a serious injury. But falls can still happen in a flash.

What types of fall injuries may need specialized trauma care?

Head, neck, back or spine injuries, and broken bones top the list. More specifically, these injuries can often need the highest level of trauma care – or what’s often called Level 1 trauma care. Why? These kinds of injuries can be more complex, which may require expert care from a range of specialists.

In addition, we suggest that you bring your child to a trauma center right away if they’re experiencing any of the following symptoms after a fall:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Possible broken bones – especially if the potential fracture is located in areas like the head, face, neck, back or pelvis, or if a bone has pierced through the skin – ligament tears or a spinal cord injury
  • New or worsening bleeding or swelling, headache, nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness or memory loss surrounding the accident

Learn more about what to do if your child falls and hurts themselves.

2. Being struck by or against an object: Accidental impacts

Most kids get bumped into on a regular basis – especially if they play sports (or have older siblings). Usually these run-ins are minor accidents caused by playing a little too hard or getting distracted.

But according to CDC and NEISS All Injury Program data from 2000-2018, the frequency of emergency department visits after being struck by or against an object is second only to falls, especially for kids aged 0-14.

When and where are kids most likely to get struck by or against an object?

These types of childhood injuries can happen anytime and anywhere. Here’s just a sampling of some of the accidents that fall into this category:

  • Walking into a wall, door or piece of furniture
  • Being hit by an object such as a baseball or a falling storage box
  • Getting hit and hurt by another player during a football, soccer, lacrosse, softball, baseball or other sports game
  • Being pinned under a piece of furniture or an appliance that tipped over

What types of “struck by or against” injuries may need trauma care?

Head, neck, back or spine injuries, and broken bones are often top trauma priorities for these types of accidents, too. Also, if your child is injured after being pinned under or against something, internal injuries can be a concern.

We suggest heading to a pediatric trauma center if your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Possible broken bones – especially if the potential fracture is located in areas like the head, face, neck, back or pelvis, or if a bone has pierced through the skin – ligament tears or a spinal cord injury
  • New or worsening bleeding or swelling, headache, nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness or memory loss surrounding the accident

3. Motor vehicle accidents: The most common injury for teen drivers and riders

There are millions of motor vehicle accidents every year. Next to falls, these accidents are the most common causes of nonfatal injuries among teenagers.

When and where are motor vehicle accidents most likely to happen?

Whether your child is cruising in your family car or riding an ATV at the cabin up north, motor vehicle accidents can happen anytime. And teens between 16 and 19 are at a higher motor vehicle crash risk than any other age group, according to the CDC.

Why? One reason is because teens are less experienced drivers or they’re riding with less experienced drivers.

The CDC says that the crash risk for teen drivers is especially high during their first few months of licensure. In addition, the presence of other teen passengers increases crash risks.

When may trauma care be needed after a motor vehicle accident?

Motor vehicle accidents can cause a range of injuries – some obvious and some subtle. And even low-speed accidents can leave kids with an injury.

After any motor vehicle accident, we suggest getting your child checked out. Some injuries may or may not present themselves right away. Urgent care can be a good choice for minor bumps, scrapes or bruises.

If an ambulance arrives and paramedics say a trip to the ER is recommended, we suggest you follow their advice and ask to be taken to the nearest pediatric trauma center.

In addition, we recommend seeking pediatric emergency care if your child has any of the following injuries or symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Visible or possible head, neck or back injuries
  • Possible broken bones – especially if the potential fracture is located in areas like the head, face, neck, back or pelvis, or if a bone has pierced through the skin – ligament tears or a spinal cord injury
  • New or worsening bleeding or swelling, headache, nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness or has memory loss surrounding the accident

4. Cuts and puncture wounds: Injuries that are more than a little scratch

Whether they’re playing with friends or helping you in the yard, a lot of kids accidentally cut or poke themselves with something sharp. Most wounds will sting and throb, but once they’re cleaned and patched up they typically heal pretty quickly.

But more serious lacerations or piercings are relatively common, especially for kids between 5 and 14 years old.

When are cuts and piercings most likely to happen?

Usually, most deep cuts or piercings occur after another common kid injury occurs – namely a bad fall or being hit by something. But other household accidents involving machinery like yard tools, kitchen appliances or cutlery can be the culprits, too.

When may trauma care be needed for cuts and piercings?

If your child has any lacerations or puncture wounds that occurred after a fall, being hit by an object, or may involve a broken bone, head to the nearest trauma center. Multiple injuries will likely require care from multiple specialists.

If a cut or puncture is the primary injury, get emergency pediatric trauma care if your child’s injury is:

  • Bleeding heavily or the bleeding hasn’t decreased after five to 10 minutes of direct pressure
  • Causing numbness or inability to move fingers, toes, arms, legs, joints or other parts of their body
  • Deeper or longer than ½ inch
  • Located on your child’s head or face, or close to an eye
  • Caused by a dirty or rusty object
  • Embedded with dirt, gravel or other debris
  • Has ragged or separated edges
  • Caused by an animal or human bite
  • Extremely painful
  • Showing signs of infection (e.g. increased warmth, redness, swelling or drainage, or foul odor)

5. Bites and stings: Wounds caused by animals, insects and humans

The vast majority of bites and stings are minor – requiring little to no medical treatment. But according to the previously mentioned CDC and NEISS All Injury Program data, bites and stings are the third most common reason for ER visits for kids aged 0-9.

When and where are bites and stings most likely to happen?

Like any injury, bites and stings can happen anytime, anywhere. Among children, dog bites are some of the most common injuries we see.

When may trauma care be needed after a bite or sting?

After any bite or sting, seek emergency pediatric trauma care if:

  • The wound (or wounds) is bleeding heavily or the bleeding hasn’t decreased after five to 10 minutes of direct pressure
  • The wound (or wounds) is showing signs of infection (e.g. increased warmth, redness, swelling or drainage, or foul odor)
  • Your child is having difficulty breathing or showing other signs of an allergic reaction such as swell hives, wheezing or trouble swallowing, rapid pulse or dizziness

Specifically for animal bites, seek emergency care if:

  • The animal that bit your child is wild
  • The bite or bites are deeper or longer than ½ inch – especially if they’re located on your child’s face and/or near an eye
  • The bite is from a venomous snake or spider
    • Venomous snake and spider bites are rare in the Midwest, and Minnesota and Wisconsin have just two species of poisonous snakes
  • The bite is from a bat (which is uncommon in Minnesota and beyond, but requires fast care)

6. Foreign bodies: When something is where it shouldn’t be

It’s safe to say that every kid experiences a “foreign body” at some point during their childhood. Whether it be a splinter in their finger or a sweet pea in their nose, curious kiddos get things stuck.

But more serious cases happen. In fact, it’s the fourth most common reason for an ER trip for kids between 1 and 4 years old.

When and where are foreign body injuries most likely to happen?

Most of the time, the child will inhale or ingest something on their own. This can happen during a mealtime or during playtime, when there are a lot of choking hazards around.

When may trauma care be needed for removing a foreign body?

Most foreign bodies can pass through their gastrointestinal track without issue, but sometimes they become lodged in the throat, stomach or soft tissues. Choking and bowel obstructions are the biggest concerns, and require emergency medical care.

If your child appears to be choking, take action by using choking first aid techniques like back blows or the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the object. If you don’t know how or your efforts aren’t working, call 911.

If your child has swallowed something and you’re unsure if it can be passed naturally, call your doctor. Go to a pediatric trauma center if you notice any of the following symptoms of a possible bowel obstruction:

  • Severe abdominal pain, cramping or swelling
  • Vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Loud bowel sounds
  • Inability to pass gas
  • Constipation

7. Burns: Injuries that aren’t only caused by fire

Whether a curious hand grabs for a hot pan or repeated sunscreen applications didn’t get the job done, mild burns are pretty common for kids.

But only a little amount of time – sometimes just seconds – is needed for burn injuries to worsen.

When and where are burns most likely to happen?

Thermal burns – burns caused by coming into contact with flames, or hot metals, liquids or steam – are the most common among children. But other types of burns include:

  • Chemical burns caused by acids or solvent cleaners (e.g. bleach, ammonia, paint thinner)
  • Electrical burns after coming into contact with an electrical current
  • Radiation burns (aka sunburn)
  • Friction burns such as road rash or carpet burn
  • Cold burns such as frostbite

When may trauma care be needed for burn injuries?

If a burn has caused any damage below the epidermis – the outer layer of the skin – some degree of specialty care may be needed. Blisters signal a second-degree burn that’s gone deeper, and any charring or whitish marks are a sign of the most severe third- or fourth-degree burns.

The more severe or widespread the burn, the higher degree of specialty care that is needed and suggest that kids get specialized burn care if:

  • Burns are located on the face, ears, hands, feet or genital area where permanent damage is a risk if not treated properly
  • Burns appear deeper than first-degree and/or cover a large area of the body (e.g. larger than the size of your palm)
  • There are signs of infection (e.g. increased warmth, redness, swelling or drainage, or foul odor)
  • Pain, irritation or discoloration worsens

For the worst kid injuries, get the best possible trauma care

Accidents happen. And the worst ones can result in injuries that need highly-specialized care from pediatric trauma experts.


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, 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 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 Does RA Often Occur in the Joints of the Hands?

Article featured on MedicalNewsToday

In people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the immune system attacks healthy tissues in the lining of the joints. It often affects the hands, wrists, and feet. Over time, these joints can become stiff and deformed. Here’s why RA often affects these areas, along with treatments that may help prevent and treat pain.

Why does RA affect the hand joints?

RA tends to affect many joints at once. Often, symptoms first appear in the small joints of the middle fingers and in the bases of the hands and toes. It usually occurs in the same joints on both sides of the body.

RA may affect small joints in the hands first because there are many more joints in the hands than in other parts of the body.

The hands have 29 joints each. These joints are supported by a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and tendons that has evolved to perform complex tasks.

In people with RA, the immune system attacks and causes inflammation in the joint lining, or synovium. The synovium produces a fluid that lubricates the cartilage covering the ends of bones, allowing the bones to glide smoothly against each other when a person bends the joint.

A person with RA may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Over time, chronic inflammation in the joints may cause the cartilage to gradually wear away.

The condition may also progress to larger joints, such as the knees, ankles, or elbows.

In addition to affecting the joints, RA can cause inflammation that can also impact a person’s:

  • heart
  • lungs
  • eye
  • kidneys
  • skin

Common symptoms

Some research suggests that RA has a slow onset in more than 50% of cases.

Around 25% of people have abrupt RA onset. Experts believe that it is linked to gum inflammation from bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis. People will not experience gum inflammation or gingivitis (gum disease) from this infection unless they smoke.

RA is progressive, which means that the symptoms get worse over time. Treatments such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help slow the progression of RA but cannot cure the condition.

Early signs and symptoms of RA include tenderness, pain, swelling, or stiffness in joints that:

  • affect more than one joint
  • usually start in small joints, such as the hands, wrists, or feet
  • affect the same places on both sides of the body
  • last for at least 6 weeks
  • may be accompanied by stiffness in the morning for 30 minutes or longer

The fingers may appear swollen, like sausages. Inflammation can eventually cause irregularities in the joints and an inability to properly bend or straighten these joints.

Some other common symptoms of RA include:

  • weight loss
  • fever
  • weakness
  • fatigue

Over time, inflammation can affect other parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as:

  • dryness, pain, and inflammation in the eyes
  • sensitivity to light
  • small bumps in the skin over bones called rheumatoid nodules
  • shortness of breath
  • a dry mouth
  • gum inflammation or infection
  • a low red blood cell count

Home remedies

Home remedies do not replace medical treatments such as DMARDs, which can help slow the progression of RA. A person should never stop or change their prescribed treatment plan before speaking with a doctor.

Several home remedies may help alleviate pain, swelling, or stiffness in the joints due to RA. These remedies include:

  • heating pads or warm baths, to loosen up stiff joints
  • ice packs, to relieve joint pain and swelling
  • meditation and deep breathing techniques, to help a person relax and take their mind off the pain
  • acupuncture
  • massage
  • splints for the fingers or wrists
  • assistive devices, such as ergonomic keyboards or jar openers
  • lotions with capsaicin, to help relieve localized pain

The following supplements have limited scientific evidence proving their benefits but are worth bringing up with a doctor:

  • cannabidiol (CBD) products
  • fish oil
  • turmeric
  • glucosamine
  • probiotics

Making certain dietary changes can also reduce inflammation throughout the body and help a person lose weight. This may help relieve RA symptoms. Having an anti-inflammatory diet includes eating:

  • less sugar
  • fewer processed foods
  • less red meat
  • less full fat dairy
  • more fresh fruits
  • more vegetables
  • whole grains
  • lean meat
  • fish
  • legumes
  • nuts
  • seeds

Some people with RA may find that avoiding gluten or eating more fermented foods, such as yogurt and sauerkraut, helps with symptoms.

A person should always talk with a doctor before trying any new supplements or making any major dietary changes.

Exercises

For people with RA hand pain, exercise may improve the symptoms and maintain joint mobility and function.

Some research suggests that performing therapist-recommended hand exercises may improve grip and hand function while also relieving RA symptoms.

A 2018 study in 841 people with RA suggests that hand exercises may improve mobility and function. The study also concludes that performing a hand exercise routine likely does not relieve pain or improve a person’s grip and strength in the short or long term.

  • Here are three simple hand exercises that a person can try:
  • Gently squeeze a small, squishy ball or a stress ball.
  • Place the hand out flat with the palm up. Bend each finger, one by one, into the palm. Hold, release, and repeat.
  • Place the hand flat on a table. Lift one finger off of the surface and release it back down. Repeat with each finger, one by one.
  • Getting regular, gentle, full body exercise helps increase strength and range of motion in the joints, which can improve daily functioning. It also helps a person maintain a moderate weight, which can improve RA symptoms.

A person should aim to incorporate the following into their routine:

  • cardiovascular exercises, such as walking or swimming
  • full body strengthening exercises
  • light stretching

Some exercise is always better than none. Although feeling some discomfort is OK, a person should stop exercising if they feel significant pain.

When to talk with a doctor

A person should talk with a doctor if they experience any early symptoms of RA, including:

  • persistent pain or stiffness in the joints
  • joints that are warm to the touch
  • difficulty moving or engaging in daily activities

For people who already have a diagnosis of and treatment plan for RA, a doctor visit is warranted if they:

  • experience any new symptoms
  • feel that their treatments are no longer managing their symptoms
  • develop any side effects from their medications

A person should also talk with a doctor before starting new supplements or a new diet. Also, they should always talk with a doctor before changing or discontinuing their medications.

  • A person should ask questions of their care team as needed. The team will often consist of the following healthcare professionals:
  • a primary care physician
  • a rheumatologist, who will specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions such as RA
  • a rheumatology nurse, who can help educate the person about RA
  • a physical therapist, to help with mobility issues and teach hand exercises
  • an occupational therapist, to share devices and techniques that help a person live with their symptoms and go about their daily tasks
  • a mental health professional, to help with stress and anxiety, which are more common in people with RA
  • an orthopedic surgeon, to correct joint damage with surgery as necessary

The takeaway

RA is an autoimmune condition that affects many joints in the body. The condition causes the immune system to attack the lining in the joints, causing pain and swelling. Because there are many joints in the hands, people usually experience the first symptoms of RA in their hands.

Medications such as DMARDs help slow the progression of the condition. Several home remedies can also help manage the symptoms. Hand exercises may improve hand mobility, while full body exercise may relieve the symptoms and improve overall well-being.

A person’s healthcare team can help determine the best treatment plan to manage pain and improve functioning.


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, 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 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