How a Fractured Bone Heals
Broken bones or fractures are a common phenomenon. Research shows every one will experience two broken bones on average in their lifetime. In the United States, for instance, there are approximately two million fractures annually, including fractures in patients afflicted by osteoporosis. Most of these patients heal naturally. Some fractures, however, are associated with a high risk of non-union, delayed union, and other problems caused by risk factors including diabetes,...
Achilles Tendonitis Hinders Athletic Activity
Achilles tendonitis is common among athletes. It also occurs in "weekend warriors" who engage in infrequent but intense bursts of physical activity. This painful condition may curtail your activities for several weeks. Achilles Tendonitis Symptoms The main symptom of Achilles tendonitis is a burning or throbbing pain in the back of your leg, from your heel up through your calf. You might notice stiffness early in the morning. The pain often gets...
Treating a Torn Tendon
The tendons connect bones and muscles together. During times of intense physical activity or movement such as running or walking, tendons can experience intense forces. Some tendons are more prone to tears than others. The four most common types of tendon tears include the quadriceps, rotator cuff, Achilles tendon, and biceps. Symptoms of a Torn Tendon In many cases, you may feel a sharp popping sound when the tendon tears. This...
Pinpointing Herniated Discs
A common source of lower back and neck pain, herniated discs can cause very little discomfort or trigger debilitating pain. One of the spongy discs cushioning the spine may become "herniated" when inner disc material (the center nucleus) pushes through the harder outer portion of the disc. It becomes a source of pain when nearby nerve roots are compressed. For many patients, the pain either goes away completely with non-surgical...
Diagnosing and Treating Scoliosis
Often appearing during childhood, scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it's a condition that affects about 2-3 percent of the population in the United States. Most cases of scoliosis are mild and will require little or no treatment. It's only when the abnormal development of the spine presses on nearby nerve roots or contributes...
Managing & Preventing Runner’s Knee
Runner's knee, which is also called patellofemoral pain syndrome, is a type of pain that develops around the front of your kneecap. The pain often begins after an intense period of physical activity. As you continue playing and living an active lifestyle, you may find that the pain persists during light activity such as walking. Over time, the condition can worsen to the point that your knee always hurts. Who Gets...
Causes of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a chronic loss of bone mass. It becomes more common with age, affecting up to 30 percent of post-menopausal women. Men can also develop osteoporosis as they age. This condition can become serious, but you may not know that you have it until you fall and fracture a bone. Our doctors offer orthopedic care for injuries that result from osteoporosis. Symptoms of Osteoporosis In the early stages of osteoporosis, there...