Running Tips: Preventing Injuries and Getting Race Ready

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Article featured on Emory Healthcare

Runners experience all sorts of health benefits, such as better heart health, stronger bones, building muscle and maintaining a healthy weight. But just like in any sport or activity, runners risk getting injured.

Running Tips for Beginners

Never run before? No problem. “Start slow and be patient with your progress,” advises Dr. Mason. “Before starting, talk to your primary care provider to make sure you’re ready to do vigorous exercise like running.”

  • Start with a walk-to-run program: Dr. Mason recommends a program that slowly shifts intervals of walking to running. You can do this by breaking your time into five-minute intervals (for example., a 20-minute workout would have four intervals of five minutes). For the first two weeks, walk for five minutes (a 5:0 walk-run ratio). After that, walk for four minutes and speed walk/jog for one (a 4:1 walk-run ratio). Two weeks later, walk for three minutes and run for two (a 3:2 walk-run ratio). Keep increasing every two weeks until you are running the entire time.
  • Take rest days: Beginning runners can expect soreness as they start their new exercise routine. Start by running every other day or three to four days a week. That way, your body has time to recover between runs.
  • Get good shoes: A specialty running store can analyze your stride (gait) and footfall and help you pick a shoe that’s right for you. Everyone runs in their own unique way, and the shoes your friend wears to run might not be good for you. Finding the right shoes can help prevent injury.
  • Where to run: While running on pavement can be hard on your knees, runners can get injured on any surface. Hard surfaces, like sidewalks, transfer more force to your knees. But softer surfaces, like trails, are less stable and have a higher risk of ankle injury. Dr. Mason suggests mixing up your running surface and routes to strengthen your legs and keep you balanced.
  • Increasing speed and distance: It’s safer to increase how fast or far you run gradually. First, increase your distance, then improve your speed. Start by increasing your distance by a half mile a week. Once you reach five miles a week, you can focus on picking up your pace. You can also add short sprints into the middle of your workout to increase your overall speed.
  • Prevent side stitches: Stay hydrated, avoid large meals a couple of hours before running, avoid sugary training snacks and focus on your breathing. Match your breathing rhythm to your running stride and take periodic deep breaths to keep oxygen flowing and avoid side aches.
  • Eat enough: Make sure you are eating enough and getting all of the macronutrients: protein, fat and carbohydrates. Sometimes the amount of nutrition we need to run can surprise us! Dr. Raiser believes that all runners can benefit from meeting with a sports dietician to help optimize your nutrition. But keep in mind that you should spread your food intake out to 5 to 6 meals throughout the day to optimize the absorption of important nutrients and keep your energy balanced throughout the day. If you regularly eat too little, you may have insufficient nutritional intake, which can lead to low energy availability—and can show up as fatigue, recurrent injuries (especially bone stress injuries), poor performance, and many other medical issues.

Running Advice When Training for a Race

Have your sights set on a race? Setting a goal like this can help structure your training as you work toward race day.

  • Training in the heat: Both doctors emphasize hydration before, during and after you train. When it’s hot outside, water alone may not be enough. Drink electrolytes to replenish what you lose when you sweat. Wicking or dry-fit clothing helps move heat away from your body.
  • Speed work: More experienced runners can use interval training to improve their pace. Add some high-intensity bursts in the middle of your runs.
  • Cross-training and prehab: When training for a race, you may think you should focus all your energy on running. But cross-training can actually help improve your running performance and help prevent injuries. Dr. Raiser emphasizes that “Runners need to train to run; this involves more than just running. This means that strength and agility training, general aerobic training, and mobility work are important for making you a better runner and avoiding injury.” Activities like swimming, cycling, rowing and weightlifting can help you increase your endurance and strength. “Prehab” exercises can help runners strengthen and stabilize their muscles and joints to prevent common running injuries.
  • The day before the race: Wondering if you should train the day before a race? “That depends on the level of runner you are,” says Dr. Mason. “If you’re a beginner, I recommend taking a rest day before a race. If you’re an experienced runner, take the day off or go for a short, easy jog to loosen your muscles and relieve nervousness.”
  • Warm up before a race: To stretch or not to stretch? Some people believe that extensive stretching can impact your performance. And overstretching cold muscles can lead to injury. The doctors suggest runners start with five to 10 minutes of light aerobic activity to warm up the muscles and joints. Then do light stretching, like a simple calf, hamstring or quad stretch.

Prevent and Treat Common Running Injuries

Some soreness and mild discomfort are normal when you start a running routine. But any pain should resolve in a few days or weeks. If pain lingers or gets worse, you might be injured.

Achilles tendonitis

Your Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles (in your lower leg) to your heel bone. Runners can experience tendonitis in their Achilles if they increase distance or speed too quickly or if they have abnormal running mechanics. Tight calf muscles or excessive pronation (foot rolling inward) can also cause tendonitis.

To prevent Achilles tendonitis, increase your distance and speed gradually. Stretch and strengthen your calves after each run. And select the right running shoes for your gait. A specialist running shoe store can analyze your stride, determine if you pronate, and suggest a shoe that will help.

If the pain and tightness in your Achilles tendon persists, Dr. Mason recommends seeing a sports medicine physician. Achilles injuries generally heal when the runner takes time off from running and does specific stretches and strengthening exercises. Runners may be able to cross-train with swimming, rowing or cycling while they wait for their Achilles to heal as long as those activities are pain-free.

Runner’s knee

Runner’s knee refers to many different knee issues, including patellofemoral syndrome and patellar tendonitis. If you’re having knee pain, the first step is to diagnose the specific cause so you can treat it. Both physicians recommend scheduling an appointment with a sports medicine physician.

Plantar fasciitis

If you have pain in the bottom of your heel when standing or walking, it could be plantar fasciitis. This condition happens when the thick band of tissue across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed and painful. Wearing the wrong type of shoe or worn-out shoes, excessive running volume or increasing your distance too quickly can all cause plantar fasciitis.

Wearing good shoes with arch support when you’re running and in your daily life can help. Focus on stretching exercises for your calf and the bottom of your foot and strengthening the small muscles of your foot with “toe yoga” exercises. If the pain persists, you may need to decrease your running and be aware that stress fractures in the heel may sometimes mimic plantar fasciitis. If you start feeling pain in your heel, Drs. Mason and Raiser suggest you see a physician to discuss the appropriate treatment plan.

Shin splint

If you increase your running volume too quickly, you may experience painful shin splints. They should go away with rest, and you may want to decrease your running distance before you slowly work back up again. Shin splints usually aren’t serious. But if you don’t rest so they can heal, they could turn into a stress fracture.

Stress fracture

Runners can get stress fractures — tiny, hairline cracks in a bone — from the repetitive impact of their sport. They may notice pain in the shin, foot or heel that gets worse over time. The only way to know if you have a stress fracture is to get an X-ray, so talk to your doctor if you think you may have one. Runners usually need to rest for six to eight weeks as the stress fracture heals. Some stress fractures can require surgery if they worsen, so don’t ignore the symptoms!

Sprained ankle

Ligaments support your ankle and keep it in the right position. But when those ligaments stretch too far, usually from rolling an ankle, it can cause an ankle sprain. A sprained ankle can swell, bruise and be painful. It gets better with rest, ice, elevation and the help of physical therapy, though it can take weeks to months to heal.

No Pain, All Gain

While you may have heard of the adage “no pain, no gain” in sport, both physicians share the advice that “Running shouldn’t hurt!” So if you have pain that sticks around or gets worse, don’t push through it or write it off as normal.

Tips for Osteoporosis and Exercise

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Article featured on OrthoCarolina

You’ve been given the diagnosis of Osteoporosis and your doctor wants you to do weight bearing activities to improve your bone health.

But what does that mean exactly? How much and how often should you do these activities? Do you need special equipment or can you safely do them in the comfort of your own home?

Weight-bearing exercises and activities are those that make you move against gravity while staying upright. Research shows that high impact dynamic loading such as jumping, jogging/running, jumping rope or hiking (activities where the feet leave the ground) gives the best results in building bone. Depending on your fitness level and overall health including joint health, you may need to stick to low impact exercises such as cycling, elliptical machine or slow paced walking.

Muscle strengthening exercises include activities that you do to move your body against resistance. One can choose from free weight, resistance bands, weight machines or even using the resistance of your own body. A well balanced program will include exercises for all body parts. Be sure to include specific exercises to strengthen the spine and promote good posture. See examples below:

 

Bird Dog

Bird Dog

Back ups

Back Ups

Sit to Stand

Sit to Stand

 

**Great care should be taken to avoid curl-ups and spine twisting motions when you have active osteoporosis as these motions can cause a spinal fracture. **

Balance Exercises are essential in the prevention of falls and therefore the prevention of injuries/fractures incurred. We can improve our balance even as we age by combining strengthening of the lower extremities with balancing exercises. Balance on one leg beginning with the eyes open and progressing to eyes closed either on level surface or foam pad.

Single leg balance (Image Above)

Now that you have an idea of what to do, how often should you do it?

For weight bearing and balance activities, research indicates participating in these activities 5-7 days a week.

For strengthening exercises, the research indicates 3 days a week to improve bone health.

Once cleared by your physician of any active fractures, your physical therapist can assist you with developing a program that is safe and effective for you depending on your current fitness level and general health.

Essential Tips for Staying Active & Preventing Orthopedic Injuries

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Article featured on Arthritis & Sports

Orthopedic injuries affect people of all ages and activity levels. They can range from minor sprains to serious conditions that impact bones and joints. Fortunately, many of these injuries are preventable. Proper education and proactive strategies play a vital role in prevention. This article outlines effective methods to help everyone stay active and healthy.

Understanding Orthopedic Injuries

Orthopedic injuries can arise from physical activities and sports, but they can also occur during everyday movements. Often, these injuries result from inadequate training, poor techniques, or insufficient warm-ups. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, approximately 3.5 million children under 14 receive medical treatment for sports injuries annually. By understanding how our bodies work and recognizing the risks associated with various activities, individuals can take steps to protect themselves.

Common orthopedic injuries include tennis elbow (affecting around 1-3% of the general population), Achilles tendonitis (particularly prevalent among runners), and knee ligament injuries (which account for about 55% of knee injuries among athletes). Learning more about these conditions helps individuals make informed choices about exercise and rehabilitation.

Importance of Injury Prevention Education

Education on injury prevention is key to reducing orthopedic injuries. When individuals understand human anatomy and biomechanics, they are less likely to experience injuries. Studies show that educational programs can reduce sports injuries by up to 30%. Workshops or consultations with trained professionals provide valuable insights into best practices for safety and health.

Building a Safety Culture

Focusing on injury prevention fosters a mindset that values long-term health over short-term performance boosts. This shift encourages athletes and active individuals to prioritize self-care and make safer choices during their activities.

Develop Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down Routines

Warm-Up Techniques

A well-structured warm-up is essential for preparing the body for physical activity. Warm-ups increase blood flow to the muscles, enhance flexibility, and improve joint mobility. Dynamic stretches, such as leg swings, arm circles, and high knees, are excellent for preparing the body for intense workouts.

Taking just 10-15 minutes for an effective warm-up can significantly reduce injury risks and improve performance.

Cool-Down Importance

Cool-down routines are equally important after physical activity. Engaging in static stretching helps restore muscle length and flexibility and promotes recovery. Activities like light walking or cycling for 5-10 minutes help the heart rate return to normal. This gradual transition is crucial for reducing muscle soreness and future injuries.

Strength Training and Conditioning

Integrating strength training into a fitness routine can drastically enhance muscle support around joints. Focusing on key muscle groups that stabilize joints—such as the core, hips, and shoulders—can reduce the risk of common orthopedic injuries.
Benefits of Multi-Joint Exercises
Multijoint exercises, like squats and lunges, are particularly beneficial. They promote coordination and balance, both essential for preventing injuries. Research shows that athletes who engage in strength training experience 40% fewer injuries than those who do not. Essentially, strength training builds a solid foundation of strength, endurance, and proprioception.

Ensure Proper Technique in Sports and Activities

Using the right techniques during physical activities minimizes injury risk. Whether engaging in sports, weightlifting, or everyday movements, understanding correct form is vital for safe practices. Coaches and trainers play a crucial role by providing guidance on executing movements correctly. Regular feedback helps to correct improper techniques that may lead to strain or injury.

The Role of Coaching

Research by the National Academy of Sports Medicine indicates that athletes receiving proper coaching on technique are 20-25% less likely to sustain injuries. Emphasizing technical training can profoundly impact athlete safety and performance.

Listen to Your Body

Listening to your body can be transformative when it comes to preventing injuries. Ignoring pain or discomfort often leads to more severe issues. It’s essential to pay attention to these signals and allow time for rest and recovery.

The Importance of Rest Days

Overtraining increases the likelihood of injuries, making it vital to include rest days in any training schedule. Including 1-2 rest days each week can significantly lower injury risk and enhance overall performance.

Promote Rehabilitation and Recovery Techniques
For those recovering from injuries, understanding rehabilitation techniques is crucial. A structured recovery plan, including physical therapy or tailored exercises, speeds up recovery and ensures proper healing. Knowing how and why certain exercises are performed can positively impact recovery outcomes, helping individuals regain strength and confidence while reducing the risk of re-injury.

Ensure Safe Return-to-Sports Program

For those undergoing lengthy recovery after surgery, physical therapy is essential but not the final step. A well-structured return-to-sports program ensures the athlete is safe to resume activities at the same level they were at before the injury (if not even better).

Outreach and Community Programs

Community programs focused on injury prevention education benefit diverse groups, including youth athletes and older adults. These initiatives may include workshops, training sessions, and informational resources. By offering such programs, communities facilitate a better understanding of injury prevention.

Such initiatives create supportive environments where individuals can learn and apply effective strategies relevant to their physical activities, promoting healthier lifestyles. 

Moving Forward with Awareness

Preventing common orthopedic injuries involves education, practical strategies, and a commitment to self-care. By understanding body mechanics and implementing effective measures such as proper warm-ups and cool-downs, individuals can significantly lower their risk of injury.

Moreover, emphasizing injury prevention education promotes personal health and fosters a culture of safety within communities. By prioritizing these strategies, individuals of all ages and activity levels can confidently pursue their passions, leading to healthier and happier futures.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

7 Stretches to Counteract Sitting All Day

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Article featured on Optimal Sports Physical Therapy

Simple stretching exercises to do while sitting at your desk

Pause for a moment and notice how you are sitting. Yes, you! Humor us for a moment. How are you sitting right now? Have you slid way down in your chair? Or, have you slumped forward toward your computer screen? What about your feet? Do you have one foot tucked under you or your legs crossed?

If you said yes to any of these positions, you aren’t alone! Poor posture after sitting at your desk for even a short time is common for many people.

With a growing rate of sedentary jobs, many Americans are finding themselves spending eight or more hours without regular physical activity. Long periods of time without regular activity can be very hard on the body. Research is indicating that those who sit for long stretches have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and shortened life expectancies.

Breaking up your sedentary periods can help to lower your cardiovascular risk and improve your life expectancy. Incorporating simple stretching exercises at your desk can help to get your blood pumping and improve your posture.

Don’t worry, we aren’t suggesting you roll out your yoga mat in your cubicle. You can do these seven, easy to do, stretches while sitting in your chair. Learn more about other helpful ways to get and stay active during your workday.

Stretching Exercises While Sitting at your Desk

If you’re like most people who sit for long periods of time, your posture has likely slid off course. Don’t worry! Before you begin any stretches take a few moments to adjust your posture. Begin by following these easy tips:

  • Slide all the way back in your seat. Your lower back should be supported by the chair’s backrest.
  • Rest both feet flat on the floor with your knees directly above your ankles.
  • Raise your chair so that your hips are slightly higher than your knees.
  • Elbows should be resting comfortably on the chair’s armrest at 90 degrees.
  • Computer screen should be at eye height (neither looking down nor up).

Comfortable? Sitting this way may feel strange at first. With a little practice, you’ll find that sitting this way begins to feel more normal.

Now that you have adjusted your posture, you’re ready to try these seven easy stretching activities while sitting at your desk.

Chest and Shoulder Stretch

Stretching out the chest and shoulders may be one of the best stretches if you find yourself slumping forward while you work. This stretch targets the pectoral muscles and helps to open the chest.

How to: Take the arms behind you and interlace the fingers together. Begin to lift the arms up until you feel a stretch across your chest. Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds and release.

Neck Stretch

Many people lean their head forward toward their computers when working at a desk. This puts extra tension on the neck. If you experience frequent headaches or upper back tension, stretching your neck can help.

How to: Reach your right arm down and grip the side of your chair. Tilt your head to the left feeling a gentle stretch down the side of your neck. Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds and then repeat on the other side.

Spinal Twist

Sliding your hips forward in your chair or sitting in a slumped position can put a lot of strain on your back. A spinal twist can help to relieve tension across the entire back and reset your posture.

How to: With your feet flat on the floor, contract your abs and begin to rotate your upper body toward the right. Place your left hand on the outside of your right knee. Place the right hand on either the armrest or seatback to help deepen the stretch. Only twist as far as you feel comfortable. Even a small rotation can make a big difference. Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds and then repeat on the other side.

Back Extension

Your back can take a beating when sitting slumped forward or when reclining backward. A seated back extension can help to ease tension while opening your chest and shoulders.

How to: Scoot back in your chair with your back resting comfortably against the backrest. Place the palms of your hands at the back of your neck. Lean back over your backrest keeping your elbows wide until you feel a gentle stretch across the back and chest. Hold this stretch for 10 to 15 seconds.

Hip Stretch

The lower body can get very tight after sitting for long periods. The hip flexors shorten and tighten and the glutes stretch while sitting. This easy to do stretch targets all areas of the hips and glutes in one stretch.

How to: While seated, cross your right ankle over your left knee. Sitting tall, begin to fold forward at the hips until you feel a stretch across your right glute. You can press down on your right knee to help deepen the stretch. Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds and then repeat on the other side.

Hamstring Stretch

Without regular activity, your hamstrings can tighten quickly. This simple stretch helps to relieve leg discomfort and keep your hamstrings loose.

How to: Extend your right leg forward keeping your left foot flat on the floor. Sitting tall with your head in line with your spine, begin to fold forward reaching for your right toes. If your chair rolls, lock the wheels to avoid rolling backward. Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds and then repeat on the other side.

Wrist Stretch

Resting your wrists flat on your keyboard or typing for long periods of time can cause tightness in your wrists. These two simple wrist stretches will target both the wrist flexor and wis extensor.

How to: Extend your right arm straight out in front of you with your palm up. Flex your wrist pointing your finger tips toward the floor. Using your left hand, pull back on your fingers to deepen the stretch until you feel a stretch up your arm. Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds then repeat on the other side. Repeat this stretch with your palm facing down and flexing the fingers upward.

Tips for staying active while working from home

With the coffee pot only steps from your seat, you may find that you move less when working from home. Incorporating the seven easy seated stretches once an hour is a great start. But, consider some of our other favorite tips to get active and stay active during your day.

Get Moving

Getting moving may look different for everyone. This may mean doing your workout mid-day instead of in the morning. Or try blocking your calendar for a short walk around your house or outside every couple of hours. 15 minutes of light exercise can make a big difference in heart health, posture, fatigue, mood, and brain function.

Change Your View

Having something else to look at while you work can make a world of difference. Try working at your table for an hour instead of your desk. Or, pause and check out what the weather is like on the way to refill your water bottle.

Try a Virtual Walking Club

Do you struggle with accountability? Try setting up a virtual walking club with your teammates. Help hold each other accountable for taking short walking breaks. Set up a weekly competition or accountability partners. Whatever you do, make it fun and motivating.

Stand, Strengthen, Balance

On calls all day? Use that time to get moving. Standing can help to relieve tension from your back and get your blood pumping. Keep a set of weights or bands close to your desk and get in a few bicep curls or squats. Work on balance challenges like tree pose or wall sits to help improve posture and stability. No matter what you choose, we recommend you turn off your video for these activities.

No matter how you move your body during the day, the key is to do something regularly. Incorporating these sevensix simple stretches while seated at your desk can go a long way in reducing the effects of sitting on the body.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Exercises That Are the Best for Osteoarthritis

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Article featured on MedicalNewsToday

Although scientists have shown that exercise can alleviate the pain of osteoarthritis, previous studies investigating which type of exercise is most beneficial have been inconclusive.

A new systematic review and network meta-analysis compiles data from multiple studies to find a clearer answer.

Published in the BMJ, the authors conclude that aerobic activities may be best for reducing pain. They also appeared better for overall function, gait performance (or the effectiveness of a person’s walking pattern), and, importantly, quality of life.

Why is osteoarthritis becoming more prevalent?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which is driven by an autoimmune reaction, osteoarthritis is caused by “wear and tear.”

Specifically, cartilage, which prevents bones from rubbing together at joints, is slowly degraded, causing pain and a loss of function. Most commonly, osteoarthritis affects the knee joint.

Osteoarthritis is becoming more prevalent. This increase is likely for a number of reasons, but two are particularly important. Firstly, it is increasing in line with the rise in obesity, which puts additional stress on joints. Secondly, because osteoarthritis is primarily associated with advanced age, the rising average age of the population also plays a part.

According to the authors of the new analysis, approximately 1 in 3 people over the age of 45 already have signs of osteoarthritis. More worryingly, half of these individuals already have severe knee symptoms.

Although there is a range of treatments, including medications, exercise should form an important part of the treatment plan. However, which exercise modality is best is still an open question.

The authors of the new paper write, “Many earlier studies failed to capture the full range of exercise types, leading to incomplete comparisons and reduced generalisability.”

Also, because osteoarthritis is a long term, progressive condition, they believe that not enough research has assessed the “short, medium, and long-term outcomes.”

Their new analysis helps bring some clarity to this important question.

Finding exercises that reduce pain, improve function

As with any difficult-to-answer question, analyzing large amounts of good-quality data is a good way to develop a clearer picture.

In this case, the scientists combined data from 217 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including a total of 15,684 participants.

All of the included studies focused on knee osteoarthritis only. Additionally, they all compared some form of exercise to either a control condition or another form of exercise. Studies also had to take into account at least one of these outcomes:

  • function
  • pain
  • quality of life
  • how well they could walk
  • adverse events

Importantly, the authors also assessed each trial for its quality, including the risk of bias. Using this and other information, the researchers were able to evaluate the certainty of the evidence.

Which exercise is best for osteoarthritis?

Once they had crunched many, many numbers, they concluded that, compared with control participants, aerobic exercises improved:

  • Pain: Short-term and mid-term follow-up.
  • Function: Short-term, mid-term, and long-term follow-up.
  • Gait performance (Walking ability:) Short-term and mid-term follow-up.
  • Quality of life: Short-term and mid-term follow-up.

However, other types of exercise also had benefits. Mind-body exercise, which combines cognitive focus and breathing exercises with physical activity, seemed to increase function.

Also, neuromotor exercises, which focus on aspects such as balance, coordination, walking, and agility, were particularly beneficial for walking ability in the short term.

Strength training and mixed exercise seemed to produce large increases in function at mid-term follow-up, and flexibility exercises resulted in significant pain reduction in the long term.

Importantly, none of the exercise types caused any more adverse events than was experienced by those in the control groups.

Inevitable limitations of the study

This study has limitations. Notably, it only applies to people with knee osteoarthritis — studies on people with knee and hip osteoarthritis, for instance, were removed from the analysis.

They also explain that many of the studies on this topic are not of high quality, and call for larger and higher-quality studies. Importantly, only 5.5% of the studies looked at longer-term outcomes, which is an important omission when attempting to understand a lifelong condition like osteoarthritis.

When we asked about limitations, he said, “This was a well-designed and thoughtfully executed study. The researchers did an excellent job pulling together a massive amount of data and organizing it in a way that gives us a clearer picture than we’ve had before.”

“That said, no study is perfect,” he continued. “One of the biggest challenges here is that it groups very different activities into broad categories. Walking, cycling, and swimming are all considered ‘aerobic,’ but anyone with knee arthritis knows these don’t feel remotely the same.”

Will this change clinical advice for osteoarthritis?

Although aerobic activity is already recommended, it is given a similar weight to other modalities.

“What surprised me most,” she continued, “was how much of a difference these activities made across so many people and types of exercise programs.”

In line with their findings, the authors recommend “aerobic exercise as a first-line intervention for knee osteoarthritis management, particularly when the aim is to improve functional capacity and reduce pain. While other exercises may offer complementary benefits to patients, they should not replace aerobic exercise as the primary strategy.”

Taken together, Caravelli told MNT that the study “suggests that regular movement is one of the most powerful tools we have.”

The authors of the new study recommend regular indulgence in aerobic activities, like cycling, walking, and swimming. However, they also explain that it is important to speak with your doctor before adopting new exercise routines.

“We often assume that if we have arthritis, our best days are behind us, or that we’re on a fixed path toward joint replacement. But that’s not always true,” concludes Bennett.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Prehabilitation: What is it and How Can it Help?

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Article featured on Orthopedic Specialty Institute

Orthopedic surgeries, such as joint replacements, ligament repairs, and spinal procedures, are often necessary to alleviate pain and improve quality of life. While the focus typically lies on post-operative rehabilitation, a growing trend in the medical field is emphasizing the importance of “prehabilitation” or “prehab”– a proactive approach to preparing patients for surgery. Prehabilitation includes targeted exercises, lifestyle adjustments, and psychological support aimed at improving a patient’s physical and mental condition before they have surgery.

Let’s explore what prehab is and how it can significantly impact the outcome of orthopedic surgeries.

Understanding Prehabilitation (aka Prehab)

Prehabilitation, often referred to as “prehab,” is a series of recommendations designed to improve a patient’s physical fitness and overall health prior to a surgical procedure. It recognizes that a patient’s baseline health can influence their ability to tolerate surgery and recover successfully. By improving a patient’s physical condition, prehabilitation aims to minimize complications, expedite recovery, and enhance the overall surgical experience.

Common Benefits of Prehabilitation

Better Surgical Outcome

Engaging in prehabilitation exercises can improve muscle strength, joint mobility, and cardiovascular fitness. These factors contribute to better surgical outcomes, shorter hospital stays, and reduced risk of post-operative complications.

Faster Recovery

Prehabilitation primes the body for the stress of surgery, making the recovery process smoother and faster. Stronger muscles and improved cardiovascular fitness can aid in early mobility and reduced reliance on pain medication.

Reduced Complications

Patients who undergo prehabilitation are better equipped to handle the physiological stress of surgery. This can lead to a decreased risk of infections, blood clots, and other complications.

Psychological Well-being

Prehabilitation can also help address the mental aspect of surgery. It helps patients feel more in control and confident about their upcoming procedure, reducing anxiety and improving overall mental health.

What Prehab Can Often Include

Exercise

Prehabilitation involves tailored exercise routines that target the muscles around the surgical area. Strengthening these muscles can enhance joint stability and support post-surgery rehabilitation. It’s not too intensive; after all, you’re about to go into surgery and don’t want to risk additional injury.

Nutritional Guidance

Proper nutrition is crucial for tissue healing and immune system support. Prehabilitation may include dietary recommendations to optimize nutrient intake.

Lifestyle Modifications

Stopping smoking, drinkng alcohol in moderation, and weight management are often addressed during prehabilitation. These changes promote better healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Pain Management Education

Patients are educated about post-operative pain management techniques, setting realistic expectations for pain and discomfort.

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Breathing techniques might seem superfluous, but breathing can be one of the best ways to help calm yourself down post-surgery. Learning deep breathing and relaxation techniques can alleviate anxiety and help patients manage pain post-surgery.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Exercising and Bone Health

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Article featured on OrthoInfo

Most people are familiar with many of the benefits of exercise, such as improving muscle strength and endurance, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and preventing obesity. Perhaps not as well understood is the importance of regular physical activity in building and maintaining healthy bones. Inactivity causes loss of bone!

Aging, along with certain diseases and medications, can cause bones to become very weak and fragile over time — a condition called osteoporosis. It often occurs in women after menopause, and in men in older age. This bone-thinning disease puts people at greater risk for broken bones, which can seriously limit mobility and independence.

We also tend to lose muscle as we age — a condition called sarcopenia. People who develop osteoporosis or sarcopenia are considered frail: more likely to fall and more likely to break a bone.

Exercise works on bones much like it works on muscles — it makes them stronger. Exercise is important for building strong bones when we are younger, and it is essential for maintaining bone strength when we are older. Because bone is living tissue, it changes over time in response to the forces placed upon it. When you exercise regularly, your bone adapts by building more bone and becoming denser. This improvement in bone requires good nutrition, including adequate calcium and Vitamin D.

Another benefit of exercise is that it improves balance and coordination. This becomes especially important as we get older because it helps to prevent falls and the broken bones that may result.

Exercises for Strong Bones

There are many different types of exercise and they all offer health benefits. The two types that are most effective for building strong bones are weight-bearing exercise and strength-training exercise. Exercises to improve bone strength are site-specific. For example, walking can improve bone strength in the legs and spine but not in the wrist.

Postural stretching and strengthening can help prevent or decrease the amount of upper spine slumping seen in many older people. Leaning over to tie your shoes or sweeping and mopping can lead to spine fractures in people at high risk of spine fracture. Try to maintain good spine posture with all your activities.

Weightbearing Exercise

Weightbearing describes any activity you do on your feet that works your bones and muscles against gravity. When your feet and legs carry your body weight, more stress is placed on your bones, making your bones work harder. Weightbearing exercise after young adulthood can help prevent further bone loss and strengthen bone.

Examples of weightbearing exercise include:

  • Brisk walking and hiking
  • Jogging/running
  • Dancing
  • Jumping rope
  • Hopscotch
  • Tennis, badminton, ping pong, and pickleball
  • Team sports, such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball
  • Stair climbing

Higher impact activities, such as jogging and jumping rope, increase the weight on bones and provide more bone-strengthening benefits. However, people who are frail or who have already been diagnosed with thinning bone should talk to their doctors about the types of physical activity that would be best for them.

Strength-Training Exercise

During strength-training activities, resistance is added to movement in order to make muscles work harder and, over time, become stronger. Although resistance exercises focus on increasing muscle mass, they also put stress on bones and have bone-building capacity.Common types of strength training include weight machines, free weights, and exercises (such as push-ups) that use your own body weight. Elastic bands can also be used to add resistance to exercises.A general guideline for strength training is to exercise each major muscle group at least twice a week. Be sure to rest for a full day between strength sessions.

Other Forms of Exercise

Non-impact exercises, such as yoga and tai chi, are not as effective at strengthening bone, but provide significant flexibility and balance training benefits.

Non-weightbearing exercises, such as swimming, cycling, and chair exercises, do not increase bone density but are excellent choices to strengthen muscles as well as the heart and lungs. If you have a musculoskeletal health condition, such as arthritis, that prevents you from doing weightbearing activities, these are good alternatives.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

How Your Lifestyle is Affecting Your Back Pain

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Article featured on 360 Orthopedics

Back pain is consistently high as a reason for emergency care, lost time at work, and disability. Most cases stem from mechanical causes, and sometimes lifestyle habits can contribute to back conditions and injuries.

Back pain is consistently high as a reason for emergency care, lost time at work, and disability. Most cases stem from mechanical causes, such as injuries to the musculoskeletal system, which create back pain symptoms. However, some avoidable conditions may be fueling your back pain. Lifestyle habits have a way of creeping in and adding to the burden borne by your spine and its support tissues. When back pain becomes more than an occasional problem, visit us at 360 Orthopedics in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch, Florida, for diagnosis and treatment. We’re neck and spine specialists, ready to help you with chronic or lingering back pain. Let’s examine ways your lifestyle may be contributing to your back pain. Making changes today may prevent bigger problems in the future.

Reasons Behind Back Pain

Your spine is the primary support column for your upper body, as well as the protective structure surrounding your spinal cord, which is the primary information conduit of your central nervous system. The bones of the spine provide a wide range of motion, combined with support from surrounding muscles, as well as tremendous strength.

There’s a lot that can go wrong with such a complex structure. The aspects of your lifestyle that contribute to back pain are often factors that increase your back’s susceptibility to injury. Let’s take a closer look.

Extra Weight

Because the spine is located at the back of your body, it supports your body with a cantilevered design, including the shallow S-shape that your spine normally forms. As you stand, walk, lift, twist, and move through your normal day, your center of gravity constantly shifts, and your spine compensates.

When you are even a few pounds over your optimal weight, the potential force of those pounds gets magnified by leverage, adding disproportionally to the load your spine bears. The good news is that losing just a few pounds also relieves these larger forces.

Sedentary Habits

Your body is made to move, yet life seems to conspire to hold you in one place. Long hours spent sitting, such as at a desk job, can take a toll on your back, since muscles and other soft tissues aren’t getting the motion they need to stay healthy.

Make the change by taking breaks from fixed postures and adding activity like walking and biking to keep your body moving.

Posture Challenges

The pervasive nature of digital screens in everyday life has introduced a new challenge to neck and back pain by demanding a head-forward posture that virtually invites pain. Similar effects arise whenever your posture moves out of balance.

Your body can handle moderate amounts of postural imbalance, but reading a book or watching a movie in an unbalanced position can leave you trapped and stiff.

Back pain consequences arise from other lifestyle choices like smoking, unchecked stress, and poor form when lifting heavy loads can all contribute to back pain that may or may not have a specific incident or 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
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Effects of Nutrition on Orthopedic Health

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Article featured on Midwest Orthopedic

Nutrition does more than just provide fuel for your body. Nutrition also plays a vital role in maintaining your overall health and well-being. When it comes to orthopedic health – the health of our bones, joints, and muscles – what we eat can significantly impact our mobility, strength, and how we feel as we live our lives. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between nutrition and orthopedic health, and how you can support strong bones and flexible joints through your dietary intake.

Fundamentals of Orthopedic Health

Our skeletal system serves as the framework that supports our body’s structure and facilitates movement. That’s an important job. So, it’s essential to provide the skeletal system with the nutrients needed to stay strong and healthy. Calcium and vitamin D are two key nutrients that are crucial for bone health. Calcium is the building block of bones, while vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, ensuring that calcium is utilized properly by the body. Incorporating dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods into your diet can help meet your calcium needs, while sunlight exposure is an excellent natural source of vitamin D.

Maintaining a healthy weight is also crucial for orthopedic well-being. Excess body weight puts added strain on the joints, particularly those in the knees, hips, and spine, increasing the risk of conditions like osteoarthritis and back pain. By following a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity, you can achieve and maintain a healthy weight, reducing the burden on your musculoskeletal system.

The arrival of Spring, with longer days and rising temperatures, can be beneficial to orthopedic health. Increased time outside provides opportunities for physical activity, as we come out of our Winter cocoons and walk the neighborhood, do Spring yardwork, and get back to warm weather activities. It also provides us with additional sun exposure, helping us get that essential vitamin D.

Foods for Orthopedic Health

In addition to calcium and vitamin D, several other nutrients play essential roles in supporting orthopedic health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Magnesium, found in nuts, seeds, and whole grains, contributes to bone density and muscle function, while vitamin K, abundant in leafy greens, aids in bone metabolism.

The Connection Between Diet and Inflammation

Inflammation is a key contributor to many orthopedic conditions, including arthritis and tendonitis. Certain foods can either increase or reduce inflammation in the body. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help combat inflammation, reducing aches and pains. On the other hand, processed foods, sugary snacks, trans fats and many more make the list of foods to avoid because they have been shown to increase inflammation. By focusing on a diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods, you can help reduce inflammation and support orthopedic health.

Orthopedic Conditions and Dietary Considerations

For individuals with osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones, it’s essential to focus on calcium-rich foods and weight-bearing exercises to maintain bone density and prevent fractures. Individuals living with or managing arthritis may benefit from trying an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. Additionally, proper nutrition after orthopedic surgery or injury plays a role in supporting the body’s healing process and optimizing recovery. Whatever orthopedic condition you might be living with, nutrition can be your ally.

Lifestyle Factors for Orthopedic Well-being

Hydration is another important aspect of orthopedic health. Water helps lubricate the joints, cushion the spine, and support overall mobility. A healthy adult should aim to drink about 100 ounces of water per day, taking in adequate amounts throughout the day, especially before and after physical activity. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of nutrients and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can further promote orthopedic well-being.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

How Yoga Helps Maintain Healthy Bones

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Article featured on UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Bone loss is serious business. Both men and women reach maximum bone mass around the age of 30 — and after that, it’s a matter of maintaining what you’ve got.

The National Institutes of Health estimate that 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and another 34 million suffer from its precursor, osteopenia. While it’s almost impossible to reverse these conditions, it’s possible to slow their effects — and yoga may be one of your strongest allies. Best of all, yoga can be done by anyone regardless of age or mobility level.

Yoga is a Weight-Bearing Exercise

Yoga is a weight-bearing exercise, which is one of the best ways to enhance bone health. Weight-bearing exercises work by holding your body’s weight against gravity, putting a mild stress on your bones and forcing them to lay down new growth. In this way, yoga isn’t much different from other weight-bearing exercises, like walking or running.

Yoga differs in one big way from these “impact” exercises — it won’t damage cartilage or stress your joints. Instead, it helps lengthen the body’s muscles and holds them in place, using that tension to stress the bone and promote growth.

Yoga Promotes a Plant-Based Diet

Earlier this month, we talked about how fruits and vegetables promote bone health. There’s a strong correlation between a plant-based diet and bone density. Many Americans eat more protein than they need. But because protein makes the body create acid, eating too much can increase the amount of acid in your bloodstream. To neutralize it and rebalance your blood’s pH levels, your body pulls calcium from your bones. Eating a plant-based diet can avoid this imbalance — because fruits and vegetables naturally neutralize the acid caused by eating protein, your body won’t need to pull calcium from your bones.

Practice Safely

While yoga can be beneficial for bone health, it can also be detrimental if it’s not practiced correctly. For example, in someone suffering from osteoporosis, a forward bend can increase the likelihood of a spinal fracture by excessively stressing the front of your vertebrae. As with any exercise regimen, talk to your doctor before you begin.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
503-224-8399

Address
17355 Lower Boones Ferry Rd Suite 100A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm