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Gardening is a joyful hobby that keeps us active and connected to nature. However, spending hours tending to plants can take a toll on our bodies if we don’t take care of them properly. To help avid gardeners stay healthy and pain-free, we’ve put together some simple stretches to incorporate into your gardening routine. 1. Overhead Side Reach Stretch: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and reach your arms overhead. Hold one wrist with the opposite hand and gently lean to the side. Feel the stretch along the side of your body. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then switch sides. 2. Touch Your Toes Stretch: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms relaxed at your sides. Slowly bend at the waist and reach forward, aiming to touch your toes or reach as far as you comfortably can. Let your arms hang loosely. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, then slowly return to standing. 3. Alternating Forward and Backward Shoulder Circles Durability Exercise: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms relaxed at your sides. Slowly roll your shoulders forward in a circular motion, then switch to rolling them backward. Focus on loosening up any tension in your shoulders and upper back. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 repetitions in each direction. 4. Cat and Cow Stretch: Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists aligned under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Inhale as you arch your back, lifting your chest and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow Pose). Exhale as you round your back, tucking your chin to your chest and drawing your belly button towards your spine (Cat Pose). Continue to flow between Cat and Cow poses for 5-10 repetitions, moving with your breath. Incorporating these stretches into your gardening routine can help improve flexibility,

Medically reviewed by Randolph J. Sealey, M.D.Bunions can be a real pain – both literally and figuratively. If you’ve been grappling with the discomfort of a bunion, you’re not alone. Many individuals find themselves longing for relief and a return to pain-free steps. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology offer a ray of hope, particularly in the realm of “MIS” – minimally invasive surgery for bunions. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how the Arthrex system, a favorite of OrthoConnecticut Foot & Ankle specialist, Dr. Randolph Sealey, is revolutionizing bunion surgery, making the journey to comfortable and pain-free feet more accessible than ever.

Medically reviewed by Justin C. Paul, M.D., Ph.D. Kyphoplasty is a revolutionary procedure for treating spinal fractures, providing both rapid relief and efficient recovery. At OrthoConnecticut, our skilled orthopedic specialists have extensive experience in performing kyphoplasty with a dedicated focus on precision and patient well-being. Prioritizing patient comfort and convenience, we offer kyphoplasty as an in-office procedure, ensuring a stress-free environment and recovery at home, which facilitates a positive experience throughout the entire process.

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and is often accompanied by the skin condition psoriasis. Doctors help patients identify the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Early diagnosis and management are key and there are many treatment options to alleviate discomfort and slow disease progression.

Medically reviewed by Abiola Atanda, M.D. Have you ever experienced a shooting pain, tingling, or weakness in your neck, shoulder, or arm? If so, you might be suffering from cervical radiculopathy or more commonly the term: “Pinched Nerve”, a condition that can be both uncomfortable and disruptive to your daily life. Fortunately, there are solutions available to help you regain your quality of life, and the Spine Center at OrthoConnecticut is here to provide comprehensive care, including surgical and non-surgical options.

Quadriceps tendon repair is typically needed for individuals who have sustained an injury or tear in the quadriceps tendon. Read on to learn more about general post op protocols, what the best sleeping options are post op, when one can expect to walk and exercise post op, as well as tips on speeding up recovery.

Cracking or popping your neck occasionally is generally considered harmless for most people. It is commonly associated with the release of gas bubbles within the joints, specifically the facet joints in the neck. This release of gas can create a cracking sound. However, cracking your neck excessively or forcefully may have potential risks and should be avoided. What are some of the reasons people crack their neck? People may crack their neck for various reasons, including: What are the benefits of neck cracking? Can Cracking Your Neck Be Bad? How Can OrthoConnecticut Relieve Neck Pain? It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and what may be harmless for one person could cause issues for another. If you experience chronic neck discomfort or feel the need to crack your neck frequently for relief, it is recommended to seek professional help. OrthoConnecticut’s orthopedic specialists and chiropractors can assess your condition, provide appropriate treatment, and guide you on safe and effective ways to manage neck-related concerns. Related Resources:

World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day is an observance held on October 19th each year. The day aims to raise awareness about pediatric musculoskeletal conditions, promote early detection and treatment, and emphasize the importance of bone and joint health in children. World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day focuses on various conditions affecting the bones and joints in children, such as fractures, growth plate injuries, scoliosis, developmental dysplasia of the hip, and other musculoskeletal disorders. The goal is to educate the public, healthcare professionals and policymakers about these conditions and their impact on children’s overall health and quality of life.

Medically reviewed by Paulina Piekarska, D.P.M. A.A.C.F.A.S. Recovering from bunionectomy surgery requires time and proper care to ensure optimal healing. Here are some top tips to help you during your recovery: 1. Follow post-operative instructions: Strictly adhere to the instructions provided to you by your surgeon or healthcare provider. This includes guidelines on wound care, dressing changes, weight-bearing restrictions, and medication usage.

Juvenile arthritis (JA) refers to a group of chronic inflammatory diseases that affect children and teenagers. An autoimmune condition, the exact cause of juvenile arthritis is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is important to work with a doctor to help guide you and your child through JA. The discussion of medication, pain management, physical activity, emotional support, and diet is critical to the overall well being of your child. It can seem overwhelming, but one of the easiest changes to make in the life of a child with JA is through food.

Medically Reviewed by Jessica Morton, M.D. Recognizing the early signs of hip problems is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment. The hip joint plays a vital role in mobility and bears a significant amount of weight, making it susceptible to various conditions. By understanding the initial signs, you can take proactive steps to address hip issues before they worsen. In this article, we will explore the common early signs of hip problems and the importance of seeking medical attention for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The First Signs of Hip Problems Recognizing the early signs of hip problems is crucial for early intervention and appropriate treatment. The hip joint is essential for mobility and bears a significant amount of weight, making it susceptible to various conditions. By understanding the initial signs, you can take proactive steps to address hip issues before they worsen. Common early signs of hip problems that you should be aware of are: If you notice any of these early signs of hip problems, it is important to consult a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist, for a comprehensive evaluation. They can perform a physical examination, order diagnostic tests if necessary, and provide an accurate diagnosis. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can help manage hip problems effectively, alleviate pain, and improve your quality of life. Where Do You Feel Pain if Your Hip is Bad? If you’re experiencing hip problems, you may feel pain in different areas associated with the hip joint. The location of the pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. One common area is the groin, where you may feel deep pain that radiates down the thigh or buttock. Additionally, pain can be felt on the outer side of the hip, known as the lateral hip, or in the buttocks. Some