Article featured on MedicineNet
Patients who’ve had surgery should ease back into movement and exercise.
These efforts may be small, but they’re better than nothing, according to one surgeon who emphasized the importance of listening to your body.
“The most important thing is patient comfort. After surgery, there is often this apprehension of, ‘If I move or do something, I will hurt or damage the area where I had surgery,’” said Dr. Adil Ahmed, an assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. “We must counsel patients pre-op and post-op, telling them what is safe to do in terms of physical activity because they should be mobile.”
Start by doing small tasks after surgery. For shoulder replacement patients in a sling and with limited mobility for four weeks, move your fingers, open and close your hands, squeeze a stress ball and flex and extend the wrist and elbow, Ahmed suggested. This can keep the joints from getting stiff and prevent swelling.
“In those first four weeks, you’re doing very gentle, rotational motions because you want everything to heal, and then you progress in therapy and remove those restrictions,” he said in a Baylor news release. “Once your motion begins to improve, you begin strengthening.”
If your arm is in a sling, just focus on getting out of bed on your own, going to the bathroom alone or putting on and taking off clothes and shoes.
After that, you can slowly start going back into physical activity, such as walking with gentle motion.
Modify your exercise routine during recovery by focusing on the areas that you can move instead of being sedentary, Ahmed advised.
After a shoulder replacement, use your free arm to hold a broomstick and move it around. Progressively start using heavier sticks to strengthen the other arm.
If it’s your wrist or elbow that’s healing, focus on working your legs and core. You can gradually start incorporating your arm workout into your routine as well, Ahmed said.
Basic workouts using resistance bands can be a good idea.
“If you can get to the gym and do something, even if it isn’t your normal routine, that’s great. Something is always better than nothing,” Ahmed said.
Controlled movements are best to minimize pain. Riding a stationary bike, for example, elevates the heart rate with low impact. This is an easy workout even if your arm is restricted in a sling. Walking is encouraged after surgery.
Start light when you do return to the gym, Ahmed recommended.
“It’s always a progression, and you never want to hit the weights right away. You should start with light bodyweight exercises, much less than you were doing before surgery, because it’s not about getting strong right away. You must do everything within the same motion parameters because the natural body response is to power through pain, which is how you injure yourself,” he said.
Use pain as your guide when beginning physical activity after surgery, Ahmed suggested.
If something hurts, that should be the upper threshold limit to you.
Avoid suffering through the pain. Gaining motion is more important during the recovery period than strengthening.
Patients often fall into two groups: overcautious, which can cause stiffness and a longer recovery, and aggressive, pushing too far too fast.
Patients with fractures that involve a joint need to use more care because the joint can shift, which may cause the patient to develop arthritis for life.
Patients should ask their surgeons a number of questions, Ahmed said. They should ask about range of motion including, “Is it safe to move or not? Are there any restrictions on movement?” They should ask about weight bearing: “Can I weight bear or not? Can I push, pull or lift items?”
They should also ask if they need to be in the sling constantly or can take it off for a certain amount of time. Also ask about therapy, including when to start and whether you should do basic home exercises.
“I try to make a point to tell patients this information, but it’s important with any type of surgery — not just the extremities — to ask these questions,” Ahmed 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, 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 Causes Neck Pain in Seniors?
in Health & Wellness, Neck Injuries, Neck PainArticle featured on MedicineNet
Understanding the anatomy of the neck
Most people will have neck pain at some point. Injuries and certain illnesses can cause neck pain, but the most common cause is holding your neck in the same position for a long time. More serious symptoms can come from changes in the upper spine that come with aging. These changes often cause neck pain in seniors.
The neck contains seven bones called vertebrae that enclose the spinal cord. Other nerves branch out from the spinal cord. Disks between the bones act as shock absorbers. They have a tough outer coating and a jellylike interior. Muscles and ligaments bind the vertebrae together, providing both flexibility and support. Injury to any of these parts can cause neck pain.
Pressure on the spinal cord in the neck can be serious because most of the nerves that serve the body pass through the neck. Problems in the neck can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms, chest, abdomen, or legs. Many organs rely on the nerves that pass through the neck for proper function.
What are the effects of neck pain?
Neck pain can affect your employment, social life, and personal relationships. When neck pain causes you to avoid certain activities, both your physical and mental health can suffer. Sometimes, it may seem that doctors and family members don’t believe that you are having real neck pain as you age. You may become angry, anxious, or depressed.
Neck pain can get worse through the pain cycle:
How is neck pain diagnosed?
A muscle spasm or sprain can cause neck pain. Doctors can often diagnose this type of neck pain with a physical examination. Doctors use X-rays to diagnose neck pain caused by arthritis. If your symptoms suggest nerve problems, doctors will often use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) to diagnose it.
What causes muscle pain in the neck?
Poor posture that results in muscle strain is a common cause of neck pain. You can prevent this type of neck pain by taking these steps:
You can treat muscular pain in the neck with over-the-counter pain relievers and with heat and cold. You may have to modify your activities for a while, but you should try to stay active.
What are the other causes of neck pain?
Many older people have osteoarthritis, which can cause neck pain. The joints of the neck are subject to wear and tear just like other joints in the body. In conjunction with this, aging can cause these three conditions:
Cervical spondylosis. This term covers the changes that occur in the neck with aging. Cartilage may wear away. Disks can become thin and dry so they don’t cushion the bones. Your body may try to compensate by growing extra bone in the form of bone spurs. These changes in the neck may cause pain from pinched nerves.
Cervical spinal stenosis. Changes in the neck cause the spinal canal to narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and other nerves. Besides neck pain, people with spinal stenosis often have symptoms in their extremities. They may have numbness, weakness, or poor coordination in the arms, legs, feet, and hands.
Disk problems. Changes in the disks between the vertebrae can cause neck pain. Disks that are squeezed between two of the bones in the neck can rupture. The disk may bulge out through the tear, a condition called herniated disk. Damaged disks can press on the nerves and even compress the spinal cord.
How is neck pain treated?
Treatments for neck pain can be nonsurgical or surgical.
Nonsurgical treatments include:
Doctors may suggest surgery, though, if more conservative treatments don’t help or if symptoms get worse. To be a candidate for surgery, you must be in good health.
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
Top 5 Most Common Causes of Summertime Injuries
in Prevention, Sports Related InjuriesArticle featured on Complete Care
Summer is a time for sunshine, stress relief…and sometimes, summertime injuries. Although most people spend their summers slowing down, spending more time with loved ones, and enjoying leisurely days by the pool, it’s also the time of year when injuries are the most common. The best way to enjoy your summertime outdoor activities is to try your best to prevent injuries from happening and seek medical attention right away when necessary.
We want to do whatever we can to ensure that you and your family are safe all summer long. If tragedy does strike, we are here to take complete care of you. Here are the top 5 most common causes of summertime injuries.
1. Sports injuries
What is the most common summertime injury? Most summertime injuries occur while playing sports. While sports are a great way for the kids to exercise and spent more time outdoors, this does make them more susceptible to injuries such as:
Common sports injuries are usually caused by inadequate stretching or warmups before an activity, not wearing the proper protective gear, improper training, or overtraining.
2. Heat-related illness
There’s nothing quite like basking in the warmth of the summer sun. Unfortunately, your fun in the sun can be cut short if you come down with a heat-related illness. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to a vast number of heat-related illnesses including sunburn, sun sickness, heat stroke, and dehydration that can result in severe symptoms such as:
If you or a loved one begin to show these symptoms, move inside to an air-conditioned room. If that’s not available, move to a shaded area and drink water. Failing to do so could lead to a heat stroke, which could be life-threatening. If you’re experiencing any heat-related illnesses, head to your nearest emergency room where you receive quality heat exhaustion and sunburn treatment.
If you’re planning a day of outdoor activities, be sure to wear sunscreen and protective clothing, drink plenty of water, and limit your time in direct sunlight.
3. Bicycle injuries
Biking is an incredibly popular outdoor activity during the summertime. Not only is biking an effective form of exercise, but it is also a great way to bond with friends and family. However, accidents do happen and bicycle injuries are very common for both adults and children. Bicycle injuries are usually caused by:
If you’re unsure what to do after a bike fall, it’s important to assess your or your child’s current condition and locate any injuries. If you have a concussion, stay put and call someone for help. Once you have done proper first-aid, seek medical attention for the injuries.
4. Playground injuries
Although the playground is a fun place for children to play, playground injuries are all too common. Minor bumps and scrapes can turn into broken bones or sprains. Playground injuries can be caused by:
As a parent, it’s important to remember that playtime can be unpredictable at times. As long as you have eyes on your child at all times, you can potentially prevent an injury from happening or catch it right as it happens.
5. Swimming pool injuries
The swimming pool can be your child’s favorite place to be during the summertime —which can be very worrisome for parents. Not only is there a high risk for injury, there is also a high risk of drowning. Swimming pool injuries like slips and falls and drownings can be caused by a few factors:
The pool is meant to be a fun and safe place for children and adults to relax, have fun, and cool off from the summer heat. The best way to avoid swimming pool injuries or drownings is to learn CPR, provide your children with arm floats or other flotation devices, and never leave them unattended.
Take complete care of your summertime injuries
Outdoor activities, although fun, require caution to prevent summertime injuries from occurring. Whether you get a grill burn at a 4th of July barbecue or are experiencing smoke inhalation symptoms from a summer bonfire, knowing where to get quality care can make all of the difference.
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
Benefits of Seeing an Orthopedic Doctor
in General Orthopedics, Health & Wellness, Musculoskeletal, Wellness TipsArticle featured on Movement Orthopedics
Orthopedic doctors are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Often, people seek a doctor when the pain becomes unbearable. This is not a good idea, because getting a diagnosis and treatment early on can often save you from a lot of suffering and make your recovery period shorter.
Here are a few benefits of seeing an orthopedic doctor.
Reduce or Eliminate Pain
By far, the most common reason why people seek orthopedic care is to reduce or eliminate pain. Whether the pain is caused by an injury or condition, an orthopedic doctor can diagnose you and recommend an effective treatment plan. One of the most common reasons for chronic pain is osteoarthritis. An orthopedic doctor can provide options for pain management that focus on bringing down inflammation, which is detrimental to your joint health. Pain management therapies include bracing, injection therapy, viscosupplementation, and physical therapy.
Restore Normal Joint Function
Following an injury or due to a condition like arthritis, you may experience stiffness and limited range of motion when you try to move an affected joint. Being unable to use your body to the full extent possible can significantly affect your daily life. As such, orthopedic doctors diagnose such issues and recommend treatments to improve functionality.
Enhance Your Exercise and Sports Performance
Many orthopedic doctors are also trained in sports medicine, which means they have the unique training and skills required to not just diagnose and treat injuries for the average person, but also for physically active individuals. What makes these individuals so different? Physically active individuals and athletes are susceptible to different types of injuries and conditions, and their recovery often needs to be completed sooner and well enough to not affect their athletic performance.
Sports medicine specialists can help professional athletes, amateur athletes, and weekend warriors perform at the best level possible. If you want excellent results that enhance your athletic performance, seeing an orthopedic doctor specializing in sports medicine is the best way to go. They can create a personalized plan that boosts your performance while minimizing negative long-term effects of rigorous physical activity on the body.
Receive Surgical Treatment If And When Necessary
Orthopedic doctors trained in surgery provide comprehensive services, including surgery. This means, while every attempt will be made to treat you through conservative treatments first, if you don’t achieve the results you want, surgery options will be explored. Orthopedic surgeons are experts in fixing musculoskeletal issues through surgery, so you can rest assured you will recover and return to normal function as soon as possible. Orthopedic surgeons often perform a lot of advanced surgeries in an outpatient setting, allowing you to recover at home on the same day as the procedure.
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
Benefits of Stretching Before & After Your Workout
in Health & Wellness, Wellness TipsArticle featured on ProTailored Physical Therapy
Regular exercise is an excellent way to improve and maintain good health. However, if you don’t stretch before and after your workout, you’re not getting the most out of your workout routine.
Stretching exercises are an important part of physical therapy for a variety of reasons.
In fact, stretching before and after a workout has several distinct advantages.
Stretching and better health
Stretching has numerous advantages for helping your body stay healthy. One of the most important is stress reduction.
Everyday life presents numerous challenges, and the resulting stress can be stored in your muscles. Tightness, spasms, and chronic discomforts such as headaches and neck pain result. Stress also causes your body to release “fight or flight” hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
These imbalances can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to viruses and other diseases. Another dangerous side effect of chronic stress is hypertension.
Stretching on a regular basis allows your body to release pent-up stress. By relaxing and loosening your muscles, you can keep your blood pressure under control, avoid chronic muscle pain, and keep your immune system prepared for anything.
Stretching and PT
It’s critical that you stretch properly before and after your workout.
A physical therapist can design an exercise program tailored to your specific needs. Physical therapy can help you make the most of your activities, whether you’re playing tennis, training for a mini-marathon, or simply walking around the neighborhood.
A physical therapist can advise you on which stretches are best for your current physical condition and the activities you’re involved in.
It’s also critical to ensure that you’re doing the right exercises in the right order. You should consult with a physical therapist to determine which stretches are best for you.
Physical therapy can assist you in getting the most out of your workouts and improving your overall health.
What are the various types of stretches?
There are several types of stretches that can be done before and after a workout.
It’s critical to understand which types are best for you and when to use them in a workout.
How will stretching after my workout help me?
After a workout, you may be tempted to immediately relax.
However, even a few minutes of stretching post exercise is essential. There are several specific advantages to stretching after your workout. These include:
How will stretching before my workout help me?
Always begin your workout with a series of stretching exercises.
Stretching for 5 to 10 minutes should suffice for most activities. It is, however, critical to stretch all of the muscles you will be using.
When you stretch properly before your workout, you will gain several specific benefits, including:
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 Prevent Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy
in Back Pain, SpineArticle featured on Atlanta Spine Institute
How to Prevent Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an exciting time. However, it also comes with a great deal of uncomfortable physical changes including lower back pain. Believe it or not, approximately 80% of women experience back pain at some point during their pregnancies. Weight gain paired with changes in hormones and posture can all lead to lower back pain.
Lower back pain can take a serious toll on a woman’s day-to-day life and cause challenges during delivery. If you’re pregnant or plan to be in the near future, here are some tips to help prevent lower back pain during pregnancy.
Engage in Light Exercises
While you should avoid high-intensity workouts, it’s a good idea to participate in light exercise routines such as yoga, pilates, swimming, and stationary biking. Not only can they strengthen your back, they can also improve your flexibility. The stronger and more flexible you are, the more likely you are to maintain good posture and prevent lower back pain.
Be Careful While Lifting
Ideally, you’d never have to lift anything throughout your entire pregnancy. Since this may not be possible, practice caution any time you lift. Rather than bending forward from your waist, move as close as you can to the object and bend your knees. This way you can keep your back straight and avoid strain.
Take Control of Your Stress
Pregnancy can be stressful, especially if you’re juggling work, childcare, and other responsibilities. Stress can raise muscle tension in the back and lead to back pain so it’s important to keep it to a minimum. If you’re feeling stressed, go for a walk with a friend, meditate, or soak in a lukewarm bath.
Wear Proper Footwear
High heels during pregnancy can exacerbate lower back pain. So swap stilettos for comfortable shoes with good arch support. You may even want to wear compression stockings to keep blood from accumulating in your legs.
Sleep on Your Side
Sleeping on your stomach and pregnancy don’t mesh well. To keep your back pain in check, sleep on your side instead of your back. If you’re unable to get comfortable, try a body pillow to support your growing tummy.
Try Hot and Cold Therapy
Take an ice pack or hot towel and place it on your back to find relief from pain. If you do so, keep the heat or ice away from the abdomen.
If your back pain becomes unmanageable during any part of your pregnancy, visit a doctor 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, 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 Ease Back Into Exercise After Surgery
in Health & WellnessArticle featured on MedicineNet
Patients who’ve had surgery should ease back into movement and exercise.
These efforts may be small, but they’re better than nothing, according to one surgeon who emphasized the importance of listening to your body.
“The most important thing is patient comfort. After surgery, there is often this apprehension of, ‘If I move or do something, I will hurt or damage the area where I had surgery,’” said Dr. Adil Ahmed, an assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. “We must counsel patients pre-op and post-op, telling them what is safe to do in terms of physical activity because they should be mobile.”
Start by doing small tasks after surgery. For shoulder replacement patients in a sling and with limited mobility for four weeks, move your fingers, open and close your hands, squeeze a stress ball and flex and extend the wrist and elbow, Ahmed suggested. This can keep the joints from getting stiff and prevent swelling.
“In those first four weeks, you’re doing very gentle, rotational motions because you want everything to heal, and then you progress in therapy and remove those restrictions,” he said in a Baylor news release. “Once your motion begins to improve, you begin strengthening.”
If your arm is in a sling, just focus on getting out of bed on your own, going to the bathroom alone or putting on and taking off clothes and shoes.
After that, you can slowly start going back into physical activity, such as walking with gentle motion.
Modify your exercise routine during recovery by focusing on the areas that you can move instead of being sedentary, Ahmed advised.
After a shoulder replacement, use your free arm to hold a broomstick and move it around. Progressively start using heavier sticks to strengthen the other arm.
If it’s your wrist or elbow that’s healing, focus on working your legs and core. You can gradually start incorporating your arm workout into your routine as well, Ahmed said.
Basic workouts using resistance bands can be a good idea.
“If you can get to the gym and do something, even if it isn’t your normal routine, that’s great. Something is always better than nothing,” Ahmed said.
Controlled movements are best to minimize pain. Riding a stationary bike, for example, elevates the heart rate with low impact. This is an easy workout even if your arm is restricted in a sling. Walking is encouraged after surgery.
Start light when you do return to the gym, Ahmed recommended.
“It’s always a progression, and you never want to hit the weights right away. You should start with light bodyweight exercises, much less than you were doing before surgery, because it’s not about getting strong right away. You must do everything within the same motion parameters because the natural body response is to power through pain, which is how you injure yourself,” he said.
Use pain as your guide when beginning physical activity after surgery, Ahmed suggested.
If something hurts, that should be the upper threshold limit to you.
Avoid suffering through the pain. Gaining motion is more important during the recovery period than strengthening.
Patients often fall into two groups: overcautious, which can cause stiffness and a longer recovery, and aggressive, pushing too far too fast.
Patients with fractures that involve a joint need to use more care because the joint can shift, which may cause the patient to develop arthritis for life.
Patients should ask their surgeons a number of questions, Ahmed said. They should ask about range of motion including, “Is it safe to move or not? Are there any restrictions on movement?” They should ask about weight bearing: “Can I weight bear or not? Can I push, pull or lift items?”
They should also ask if they need to be in the sling constantly or can take it off for a certain amount of time. Also ask about therapy, including when to start and whether you should do basic home exercises.
“I try to make a point to tell patients this information, but it’s important with any type of surgery — not just the extremities — to ask these questions,” Ahmed 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, 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 is a Torn MCL Recovery Time?
in Knee InjuriesArticle featured on Summit Orthopedics
What is an MCL tear?
Although an MCL tear can happen to anyone, athletes are most at risk. It can happen when an athlete suddenly twists or changes direction. It can also happen when something hits the athlete’s knee. Sports like football, basketball, rugby, volleyball, and skiing can result in MCL tears. MCL tears are the most common knee ligament injury.
MCL tears are classified as “partial” or “complete.” In a partial MCL tear, the ligament has torn partway, but some of the ligament’s fibers remain attached. In a complete tear, the ligament has snapped, fully separating into two pieces.
What are the symptoms of an MCL tear?
Symptoms of an MCL tear include:
What is a torn MCL treatment and recovery time?
If you suspect you’ve torn or damaged your MCL, the first thing to do is to get it evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. Your provider will conduct a physical exam and may order imaging tests, like an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis.
Surgery is not always required, and in fact, many people recover from a torn MCL with conservative measures. Treatment options for a torn MCL include:
MCL tear recovery time varies depending on how severe the tear is and whether or not you had surgery to repair the tear:
Your specific recovery time will depend on your unique injury.
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
Simple Ankle Fractures Explained
in Ankle Injuries, FracturesWhat Is an Ankle Fracture?
A fracture is a partial or complete break in a bone. Fractures in the ankle can range from the less serious avulsion injuries (small pieces of bone that have been pulled off) to severe shattering-type breaks of the tibia, fibula or both.
Ankle fractures are common injuries most often caused by the ankle rolling inward or outward. Many people mistake an ankle fracture for an ankle sprain, but they are quite different and therefore require an accurate and early diagnosis. They sometimes occur simultaneously.
Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture
An ankle fracture is accompanied by one or all of these symptoms:
Diagnosis of an Ankle Fracture
Following an ankle injury, it is important to have the ankle evaluated by a foot and ankle surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you are unable to do so right away, go to the emergency room and then follow up with a foot and ankle surgeon as soon as possible for a more thorough assessment.
The affected limb will be examined by the foot and ankle surgeon who will touch specific areas to evaluate the injury. In addition, the surgeon may order x-rays and other imaging studies, as necessary.
Nonsurgical Treatment of an Ankle Fracture
Treatment of ankle fractures depends on the type and severity of the injury. At first, the foot and ankle surgeon will want you to follow the RICE protocol:
Additional treatment options include:
When Is Surgery Needed?
For some ankle fractures, surgery is needed to repair the fracture and other soft tissue-related injuries, if present. The foot and ankle surgeon will select the procedure that is appropriate for your injury.
Follow-Up Care
It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions after treatment. Failure to do so can lead to infection, deformity, arthritis and chronic 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, 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 to Know About a Quadriceps Tendon Tear
in Tendon InjuriesArticle featured on WebMD
Quadriceps Tendon Anatomy
The quadriceps are a large muscle group located in the top front part of your leg. They help you run, jump, stand up, and keep your balance. There are four muscles in the quadriceps group, and they’re all joined together at the bottom by the quadriceps tendon.
This tendon also links the quadriceps to your bones. It’s located just above your kneecap (patella). The quadriceps tendon helps you straighten your leg.
How a Quadriceps Tendon Tear Can Impact Your Health
You might experience a partial tearing of your tendon or a complete tear. Either way, a torn quadriceps tendon is a painful, limiting injury.
The severity of the injury will determine your treatment plan and recovery time. Even a partial tear will limit your movement significantly, and you’ll typically have to immobilize your leg until it heals. This can take up to six weeks. During this time, you might struggle with regular movements like walking and changing positions (including standing up).
Complete tears are more serious. They almost always require surgery and a longer recovery time.
Causes of Quadriceps Tendon Tears
Quadriceps tendon tears usually affect physically active middle-aged people, often as the result of a sudden impact like jumping and landing on the leg wrong or changing direction too quickly when running. A fall can also result in tendon damage.
Other people may be prone to tendon tears because of certain medical conditions. For instance, people who suffer from inflammation in the tendons (tendinitis) are at risk for tendon rupture in severe cases.
Some antibiotics, as well as steroid use, have also been linked to quadriceps tendon tears.
Quadriceps Tendon Tear Symptoms
Tearing your quadriceps tendon is a painful experience. You might first hear a popping sound and experience a surge of pain. A sensation of ripping or tearing is also common. This is followed by:
Diagnosing a Quadriceps Tendon Tear
A quadriceps tendon tear is easily diagnosable. A doctor will ask you about your medical history and what you were doing at the time of the injury. You may be asked to extend your leg from a bent position or try to move it around.
These will help the doctor to determine the type of injury and may indicate possible complications. It will also show if the tendon tear is partial or complete.
Quadriceps Tendon Tear Treatment
You can use the R.I.C.E. method for immediate management of the injury. This involves:
After you see the doctor, they will decide your treatment plan based on the degree of the tear.
Recovery and Outlook
The most important factor in determining your quadriceps tear recovery time and healing is how quickly you receive treatment. Long-term issues are often associated with delayed treatment. Additionally, physical therapy is an important part of making a full recovery.
Total rehabilitation can take up to six months, depending on the injury. It’s important to patiently wait before resuming certain activities. Otherwise, quadriceps tendon issues can reoccur.
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
Downside of Dog Walking: Fractures and Head Injuries
in Health & Wellness, Sports Related InjuriesArticle featured on MedicineNet
Walking your dog gets you moving and out in the fresh air, but head injuries and fractures are very real possibilities, especially for older dog owners, researchers say.
The most common injury from walking a leashed dog that sends folks to the ER is fractured fingers, a new study from Johns Hopkins University found.
But traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are the second-most common injury adults suffer while walking a leashed dog. The third most common injury is shoulder sprain or strain.
“According to a 2021-2022 national pet ownership survey, nearly 53% of U.S. households own at least one dog,” said study co-author Ridge Maxson, a third-year medical student.
“Dog ownership also increased significantly in recent years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although dog walking is a common daily activity for many adults, few studies have characterized its injury burden. We saw a need for more comprehensive information about these kinds of incidents,” Maxson said in a university news release.
Women and all adults age 65 and older are more likely than others to sustain serious injuries, the research team found.
Researchers hope doctors will discuss these potential threats with their dog-loving patients.
“Clinicians should be aware of these risks and convey them to patients, especially women and older adults,” said co-author Dr. Edward McFarland, director of the division of shoulder and elbow surgery at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
“We encourage clinicians to screen for pet ownership, assess fracture and fall risk and discuss safe dog walking practices at regular health maintenance visits for these vulnerable groups,” McFarland said in the release. “Despite our findings, we also strongly encourage people to leash their dogs wherever it is legally required.”
For the study, researchers used data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database, operated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Here are some of the findings:
The brain injuries included concussions and non-concussive internal head injuries, which can include a bruise of the brain tissue, bleeding above the brain’s outer membrane and bleeding beneath the brain’s outer membrane.
Annual incidence of injuries due to leashed dog walking more than quadrupled over the 20 years, the study found. Reasons may include increased dog ownership rates and how dog walking is promoted for improving fitness.
This doesn’t mean stop walking your dog, just use precautions and proper footwear and leashes to be careful while you’re out with your dog!
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