What’s the Difference? Are They Treated Differently? You twisted your ankle playing basketball or tennis, and now it hurts every time you put pressure on it. Is it a strain or a sprain? What’s the difference? Should they be treated differently? Strains vs. Sprains—the Medical Difference There’s a common misperception that strains and sprains are simply different degrees of the same type of injury. That’s not true. … [Read more...]
Taking Enough Time to Recover from a Concussion
The Dangers of Resuming Normal Activity Too Soon It’s well-known that the sooner you seek treatment for a concussion or other head injury, the more options you typically have and the better results you can generally expect. But just as important is the amount of time you take to recover. There are both physical and emotional benefits to ensuring that you take enough time to fully heal. There are also significant … [Read more...]
Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year
Back Surgery
Knowing When You Need It | The Different Types of Back Surgery Back pain is one of the most common medical complaints in America, experienced by about half of all Americans. In many instances, the pain is short term and can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, rest, or a graduated program of exercise. In certain situations, though, surgery is the best option. How to Know If You Need Back Surgery? A number … [Read more...]
Happy Thanksgiving
Arthroscopic Treatment of Shoulder Pain
How It Works and When It's a Viable Treatment Option Your shoulder is one of the most-used and complex joints in your body. When you suffered a shoulder injury, or have shoulder pain that doesn't respond to medication or physical therapy, you may need to consider surgical options. If possible, have the procedure done arthroscopically, as that process is minimally invasive, with a significantly shorter recovery … [Read more...]
Should Joint Replacement—A Proven Approach to Reduce Shoulder Pain
When Are You a Candidate for a Shoulder Replacement? What Is the Procedure? Though total knee and hip replacements are becoming more and more common, not many people know that you also can undergo a total shoulder-joint replacement. In fact, shoulder replacement surgery has been performed in the United states for nearly 75 years, with more than 50,000 Americans undergoing the procedure annually. Shoulder-replacement … [Read more...]
Spinal Compression Fractures
Causes | Diagnosis | Treatment with Vertebroplasty The bones and muscles in your back are an essential component of stability, mobility, and movement. The spine, composed of your vertebrae, provides a sheath of protection for your spinal cord, which houses the nerve endings that control mobility and movement. When you suffer compression fractures in any of your vertebrae, you can experience significant pain, as … [Read more...]
Surgical Treatment Options for a Broken Clavicle
When Is Surgery Necessary? | What Are Your Options? One of the more common injuries, particularly among people who participate in contact sports, is a broken clavicle, commonly referred to as a broken collarbone. The clavicle runs horizontally between your shoulder blade and the top of your sternum (breastbone). A fracture in your collarbone can cause swelling or bruising that makes it difficult or impossible to … [Read more...]
Neck Pain—Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Dealing with Neck Pain What Can Cause It? How Do You Diagnose and Treat It? When you have pain or discomfort in your neck, it can be difficult to find relief. Your neck carries a heavy load—your head can account for nearly 10% of your total body weight. In addition, your neck is more exposed than your spine, making it more susceptible to injury. Simply sleeping in an awkward position can cause significant pain, but … [Read more...]
