Elbow surgery to reconstruct a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a common procedure performed on athletes who engage in overhead throwing activities, such as baseball, tennis and volleyball, and gymnastics. In these activities, the UCL can be stretched, torn or otherwise damaged from the constant stress of overhead motion. To mend a torn UCL, aContinue Reading »
A recent statement from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) addresses antiobiotic usage prophylaxis for patients with joint replacements. This article recommends specific antibiotics based upon the type of surgery, ranging from dental to vascular. Since not all physicians are aware of these guidelines, educating your physician regarding the most effective antibiotic for your particular surgeryContinue Reading »
You may hear the term “fatty infiltration” for the first time when you see a physician about a rotator cuff injury. After you tear the tendon in your shoulder, a large gap remains between the tendon and the bones, keeping the shoulder muscle from performing its usual actions of shortening and lengthening. The body attemptsContinue Reading »
Many patients believe that a physical therapy regimen follows joint replacement surgery, but exercise before surgery can reap many benefits afterward. Think about it: The pain in your knee has probably rendered you less active. Less activity causes the muscles—in this case, those in the thighs and hips that directly and indirectly support your badContinue Reading »
If you are undergoing aBirmingham Hip resurfacing procedure, you probably have questions about rehabilitation and physical therapy. The Birmingham Hip procedure involves placing a new metal surface on your hipbone to slide against a metal socket surface. This procedure is longer lasting, ideal for active patients, less invasive and preserves more bone than traditional hipContinue Reading »
An article came out this past December on the British Medical Journal website. It talked about blood clots following surgery. Contrary to common accepted practices by physicians they are seeing “blood clots” or “DVTs” occurring much longer after surgery than originally thought. After many orthopedic surgeries patients are taking medications to reduce the chance of bloodContinue Reading »