Get Moving! Orthopedic Insights
Cervical Radiculopathy or “Pinched Nerve”: Finding Relief at the Spine Center at OrthoConnecticut
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 Post Op Protocol
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.
Is Cracking Your Neck Bad For You?
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 is Pediatric Bone & Joint Day?
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.
Top Tips for Recovering from Bunionectomy Surgery
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 Diet Tips for Managing Pain
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.
Shin Splints in Kids: A Guide to Treatment
Medically reviewed by Angelo Ciminiello, M.D.
Yes, children can get shin splints. Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, can occur in children who engage in activities that involve repetitive impact on the legs, such as running, jumping, or playing sports like soccer or basketball. Shin splints can be a common source of discomfort and pain for young athletes, but with proper knowledge and proactive measures, they can be effectively managed. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for shin splints in kids. By understanding these key aspects, parents, coaches, and young athletes themselves can work together to ensure a safe and healthy sporting experience. So, let's dive into the world of shin splints and discover how to keep young feet moving with confidence and comfort.
What are the First Signs of Hip Problems?
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.
How to Know If You Pulled Your Hamstring
A hamstring strain, also known as a pulled hamstring, is a common injury that occurs when the muscles at the back of the thigh are stretched or torn. It typically happens during activities that involve sudden movements, excessive stretching, or forceful contractions of the hamstring muscles. The severity of a hamstring strain can range from mild to severe, affecting mobility and causing pain.
What are the Four Stages of Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis(OA) is a degenerative joint disease that results from the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage, which cushions the ends of bones and allows them to move smoothly against each other. As the cartilage wears down, bones may rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and other symptoms.
Compression Socks After Surgery: What You Need to Know
Compression socks after surgery play an important role in aiding the recovery process for patients. Not only do they improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots, but they can also help alleviate swelling and discomfort. In this article, we'll explore exactly what compression socks are, and some of the most common questions we get relating to wearing them after surgery. Let's dive in!
Why Does My Elbow Hurt When I Bend It?
Elbow pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that affects people of all ages and activity levels. It can make even simple tasks like getting dressed or lifting objects difficult, and can severely impact a person's quality of life. There are many different causes of elbow pain, ranging from overuse injuries to fractures and dislocations. In this article, we will explore some of the most common causes of elbow pain and their associated symptoms, as well as discuss some of the most effective treatments for alleviating elbow pain and restoring function to the joint. Whether you are an athlete dealing with a sports-related injury or simply someone experiencing chronic elbow pain, this article will provide you with the information you need to understand your condition and find relief.
Toe Pain Causes: 6 Most Common Reasons Your Toe Hurts
Medically reviewed by Dr. Randolph Sealey
The toes contain 14 bones, as well as joints, muscles, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels, all of which can be injured, compressed or infected. The truth is, there are a multitude of reasons why your toes may be hurting, from minor injuries to serious medical conditions. In this article, we will explore the 6 most common causes of toe pain, including arthritis, hammer toe, and neuroma, and discuss their symptoms and treatment options. We'll also provide tips for relieving toe pain at home, as well as guidance on when to see a doctor. So, if you're looking to learn more about the possible causes of your toe pain, read on to discover what you need to know.
What to expect after ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Post-operative recovery following ACL reconstruction typically involves a rehabilitation program that includes a customized combination of physical therapy, exercises, and rest. The goal of rehabilitation is to regain range of motion, strength, and stability in the knee. This process can take several months and may include the use of crutches, bracing, and other assistive devices. Physical therapy is generally started within the first week or two after surgery and may continue for several months. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions and adhere to the rehabilitation plan to ensure the best possible outcome.
Exercising in Cold Weather: Here's How You Can Take Advantage of the Benefits While Staying Safe!
Now that temperatures are getting cooler, many of our patients halt their outdoor workout routines (running, walking, outdoor sports) to avoid the chilly temperatures. While it’s tempting to take the cold weather months off and simply curl up by the fireplace with a good book or binge a series, the truth is there are many benefits to working out in colder temperatures.
Bone Marrow and its Healing Properties: Understanding BMAC Treatment (Bone Marrow Aspirate Cell Concentrate Treatment)
Let’s say you tore a ligament skiing or have just undergone a procedure to repair torn cartilage, you might have a touch of arthritis in your shoulder that is bothering you. Your doctor may recommend a procedure called BMAC or Bone Marrow Aspirate Stem Cell Concentrate treatment to help the healing process along. It sounds a little wordy, but it just might be the last piece of the puzzle in overcoming an injury.
High Arches, aka Cavus Foot: What You Need to Know
What is Cavus Foot?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Randolph Sealey
Our bodies come in all shapes and sizes. Even our feet vary extensively from one person to another. While babies’ feet, as cute as they are, often look quite similar to other babies’ feet, by the time we are full grown, foot structure varies enormously. While some people have very flat feet with low arches, others may have high arches, where the foot often looks as if it is pointing at all times.
Stressed Knees: Inside MPFL Reconstruction
Did you know? The knee is one of the body’s most intricate joints. As the largest and most complex joint in the body, it joins together the thigh bone, shin bone, fibula (on the outer side of the shin), and kneecap. As it is essential for movement, the knee is also one of the most stressed joints in the body and is quite vulnerable to injury.
Understanding Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine. When looking at the spine directly from the back, it should appear as a straight line. With scoliosis, the spine appears to curve to one side, or both. The curving can involve twisting of the vertebrae which may be less perceptible to a nurse or a physician during a medical exam.
OrthoConnecticut Helps Build Awareness of Juvenile Arthritis
July is Juvenile Arthritis (JA) awareness month and OrthoConnecticut is helping to raise awareness. Things to do – learn about JA, wear a blue ribbon, cook an anti-inflammatory recipe, make a donation, help raise awareness by telling your story, and host or attend a community event.
