Injury prevention, recovery tips, and orthopedic insights — stay informed with OrthoConnecticut’s blog.
Sneezing can be a surprising trigger for back pain, leaving many wondering why a simple reflex can cause such discomfort. Discover effective strategies to protect your back, learn about common causes, and find out when to seek medical care.
Pain, stress, and setbacks can weigh heavily on your mindset, but staying positive and supported can make all the difference. By managing pain, reducing stress, and nurturing emotional wellness, patients recover faster, stay motivated in rehab, and feel more in control of their healing journey.
This article is for active adults, athletes, or anyone recovering from an ankle injury who’s wondering why their sprain still hurts weeks later.
Being a weekend warrior is fun, energizing, and empowering. Here are 7 key injury prevention tips to help you stay active — and stay safe.
Find relief from frozen shoulder and hip pain during menopause. Learn about causes, treatments, and lifestyle tips to move comfortably again.
Every day, people visit orthopedic surgeons complaining of hip pain but often, what they’re feeling isn’t coming from the hip joint at all. Surprised? It’s because what many people refer to as their “hip” is actually a different part of the body.
Learn about AC joint injuries & separated shoulders, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options, from mild sprains to severe separations.
Nursemaid’s elbow is a common injury in young children, causing arm discomfort. OrthoConnecticut offers expert, quick treatment to restore movement.
Learn how carrying extra weight impacts your bones, joints, and mobility. Discover expert tips and treatments from OrthoConnecticut for better joint health!
Recovering from orthopedic surgery requires more than rest and physical therapy; it calls for proper nutrition to aid in healing, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s rebuilding process. Here’s a guide on what to eat before and after surgery, including post-surgery meal ideas, foods to avoid, and tips for overcoming appetite loss. What To Eat Before Your Surgery Leading up to surgery, your body requires a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet to strengthen your immune system, support tissue repair, and prepare for the physical stress of the procedure. A focus on these key food groups will optimize your body’s ability to recover quickly and effectively: Lean Proteins: Include chicken, fish, turkey, eggs, tofu, and legumes to support muscle repair and maintain overall strength. Protein is essential for tissue growth and recovery, setting a strong foundation for post-surgery healing. Whole Grains: Foods like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole-grain bread provide sustained energy throughout the day. They help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide fiber, which aids digestion—an important factor leading up to surgery. Fruits and Vegetables: Incorporate a rainbow of fresh produce like oranges, berries, spinach, kale, and bell peppers. These are packed with vitamins (like vitamin C), minerals (like potassium), and antioxidants that enhance immune function and combat oxidative stress. Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon are rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. These help reduce inflammation and support cellular health, preparing your body for recovery. Hydration: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Proper hydration is essential for cellular function, nutrient transport, and flushing toxins from your system. Iron-Rich Foods: Boost iron intake with foods like spinach, red meat, beans, and fortified cereals to support blood production and oxygen transport—key factors in recovery and overall energy levels. Probiotic-Rich Foods: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods
Getting an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time. At OrthoConnecticut, we understand that the unknown can be intimidating, so we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your MRI. With the correct information, you’ll feel calm, confident, and ready to go! What is an MRI? An MRI is a noninvasive imaging technique that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of your body’s internal structures. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRIs don’t use radiation, making them a safe and effective way to examine bones, joints, muscles, and other soft tissues. How to Prepare for Your MRI What to Expect During Your MRI When you arrive for your MRI at your preferred imaging center, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff, who will walk you through the process. After changing into a gown, you’ll lie down on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine. The machine makes loud thumping and humming noises, so you’ll be given earplugs or headphones to help block out the sound. The MRI scan typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being examined. It’s important to stay still during the scan to get clear images, but don’t worry—if you need a break, you can communicate with the technician at any time. Remember, if you move during an MRI, it may result in unclear images, requiring a repeat scan. After Your MRI Once the scan is complete, you’re free to go about your day! There’s no downtime or recovery needed. Your doctor will review the images and discuss the results with you at a follow-up appointment. Final Tips At OrthoConnecticut, we’re committed to providing you with the best care possible. Preparing for an MRI
Medically reviewed by Brooke Sands, PA-C When you need orthopedic care, an expert team of professionals works together to support your treatment and recovery. This integrated team typically includes your orthopedic surgeon, a skilled Physician Assistant (PA), and a physical therapist to guide you through rehabilitation. PAs play a crucial role in the orthopedic process. They work closely with surgeons in both the office and operating room, helping to manage your care from diagnosis through recovery. Their involvement often means more personalized attention and quicker access to treatment, ensuring that you receive high-quality care every step of the way. What is a Physician Assistant? A Physician Assistant (PA) is a licensed medical professional who works alongside a physician. PAs are trained to diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and even assist in surgeries. They work in various medical fields, including orthopedics, and provide comprehensive care to patients. Physician Assistant vs Nurse Practitioner: What’s the Difference? Physician Assistants (PAs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are both highly trained healthcare professionals, but their roles differ in education and scope of practice. PAs typically follow a medical model, similar to doctors, and are trained to diagnose and treat medical conditions under the supervision of a physician. NPs, on the other hand, follow a nursing model and may have more autonomy in certain states, especially in primary care settings. In orthopedics, PAs are integral to patient care, often assisting with surgeries and managing complex cases alongside the orthopedic surgeon. What Does a PA Do in Orthopedics? An orthopedic PA specializes in conditions related to bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They are highly trained to manage many aspects of patient care independently. Physician Assistant responsibilities include: Why Are PAs So Important to the Healthcare System? Physician Assistants (PAs) are vital to the healthcare system
Medically reviewed by Teddy S. Wolfson, M.D. As women age, maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and overall vitality becomes increasingly important. Strength training, often overlooked in favor of cardiovascular exercise, is a powerful tool that can significantly impact health and longevity, especially for women over 50. As orthopedic specialists who focus on the musculoskeletal system and its care, we encourage everyone to consider strength training as part of their overall fitness routine. This blog explores why incorporating strength training into your lifestyle is essential and how it can transform your body and how it ages. Why Strength Training Matters for Women Over 50 1. Preserving Muscle Mass As we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass—a process known as sarcopenia. This decline can begin as early as our 30s, accelerating after 50. Strength training is the most effective way to combat sarcopenia. By regularly challenging your muscles with resistance exercises, you can slow down or even reverse muscle loss, helping to maintain strength, balance, and mobility. 2. Enhancing Bone Density Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, is a significant concern for aging women. The risk of fractures increases with age, particularly after menopause, when the decline in estrogen levels accelerates bone loss. Strength training places stress on the bones, stimulating the production of new bone tissue. This process can help maintain or improve bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. 3. Boosting Metabolism Muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning it burns more calories at rest compared to fat tissue. As you build muscle through strength training, your resting metabolic rate increases, making it easier to manage your weight. This is particularly important for women over 50, who often experience a natural slowdown in metabolism due to hormonal changes. 4. Improving Joint Health and Reducing Pain There’s a common misconception
Medically reviewed by Jessica Morton, M.D. Joint replacement surgery is often performed to relieve chronic pain and improve mobility in individuals suffering from severe joint damage due to arthritis, injury, or other degenerative conditions. When conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes fail to provide adequate relief, joint replacement can restore function and quality of life. By replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one, patients can regain the ability to perform everyday activities with less pain and greater ease. At OrthoConnecticut, we are committed to ensuring our patients are well-prepared for this significant step in their health journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your joint replacement surgery, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Pre-Surgery Checklist: 1. Consultation, Preoperative Assessment, and Medication Review 2. Physical Preparation 3. Home Preparation 4. Plan Your Recovery 5. Day of Surgery Post-Surgery Care 1. Hospital Stay 2. Pain Management 3. Physical Therapy 4. Follow-Up Appointments 5. Technology as an Organizing Tool 6. Emotional Support and Well-Being Tips for a Successful Recovery Preparing for joint replacement surgery involves careful planning and a proactive approach to ensure the best possible outcome. The goals are to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. At OrthoConnecticut, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to contact our team. For more information and resources, visit our website or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons today.
Are you grappling with the discomfort and inconvenience of bunions? If so, you’re not alone. Bunions, those bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, can cause pain and difficulty with everyday activities. Fortunately, surgical options are available to correct them if non-surgical options have not relieved the pain and discomfort. But with many procedures to choose from, how do you decide which one is best for you? The Many Approaches to Bunion Correction There are numerous approaches to bunion surgery, each with its own benefits and considerations. Traditional techniques such as Bunionectomy, Osteotomy, Lapidus, Arthrodesis, and the newer Lapiplasty procedures are staples in treating bunions, offering effective solutions for many patients. However, in recent years, a minimally invasive option has been gaining popularity—Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) for Bunion Correction. The Advantages of Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery MIS Bunion Surgery offers several advantages over traditional methods. With smaller incisions and specialized instruments, this approach minimizes tissue damage, reduces postoperative pain, and accelerates recovery times. Patients often experience less scarring and a quicker return to normal activities, making it an appealing choice for busy and active people. Lapiplasty as an Alternative Procedure In recent years, the heavily marketed Lapiplasty procedure has been gaining attention. Lapiplasty may be recommended for patients with more severe deformities as it addresses the three-dimensional deformity of bunions by realigning the metatarsal bone at the base of the big toe. It is a more invasive technique and typically requires a longer recovery period than minimally invasive surgery and greater scarring at the location of the incision. Dr. Sealey Performs the Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgical Technique OrthoConnecticut Foot and Ankle specialist Dr. Randolph Sealey, renowned for his expertise in lower extremity surgery, strongly prefers the MIS approach when treating bunions. With years of experience and a
Arthritis and osteoarthritis are often used interchangeably but are distinct conditions with different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding the nuances of each helps you better manage your joint health.Arthritis, a comprehensive term, encompasses a spectrum of conditions characterized by inflammation of the joints. There are over 100 types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, among others. The common denominator among these inflammatory conditions is joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion.Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis and typically develops with age or as a result of joint injury or obesity. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to bone-on-bone contact, inflammation, and pain. Osteoarthritis commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.Distinguishing between arthritis and osteoarthritis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. While arthritis encompasses a broad spectrum of joint disorders, osteoarthritis specifically refers to the degenerative wear-and-tear of cartilage.Treatment approaches for arthritis and osteoarthritis vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Non-surgical interventions such as lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medications, and injections may provide relief for mild to moderate cases. However, in severe or advanced osteoarthritis cases where conservative measures fail to alleviate symptoms, surgical options like joint replacement surgery may be considered to restore mobility and quality of life.At OrthoConnecticut, our team of orthopedic specialists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating arthritis and osteoarthritis with personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you’re experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, we’re here to help you find relief and regain function.If you’re struggling with joint pain or suspect you may have arthritis or osteoarthritis, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic providers to explore your treatment options and take
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 Dr. Michael Brand The rapid rise of pickleball, a fast-paced and exhilarating sport, has been remarkable. With its blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball offers a unique avenue for recreation, athletics, and competition. However, like any physical activity, it comes with its share of risks, especially concerning bone, joint, and musculoskeletal injuries. Our orthopedic professionals recommend proper injury prevention techniques and treatment to avoid injury and maintain optimal health. The Most Common Pickleball Injuries Despite its relatively low-impact nature compared to other sports, pickleball can still lead to injuries, particularly in the joints and muscles. Common pickleball injuries include: Orthopedic Treatment for Pickleball Injuries Prompt evaluation and treatment are crucial for addressing pickleball-related injuries effectively. Orthopedic specialists play a pivotal role in diagnosing and managing these conditions. Here’s what patients can expect during their orthopedic care: Returning to Pickleball Safely: While the desire to return to the court may be strong, it’s essential to prioritize a gradual and controlled comeback. Light drills and gradually increasing intensity can help assess readiness and prevent re-injury. Communicating with your orthopedic physician or physical therapist allows for ongoing progress monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans as needed. Injury Prevention: What Doctors Wish People Knew About Preventing Pickleball Injuries Orthopedic doctors play a crucial role in treating pickleball injuries, and they often have valuable insights into preventing these injuries from occurring in the first place. Here are some key points that doctors wish people knew about preventing pickleball injuries: 1. Warm-Up Properly Doctors emphasize the significance of warming up before engaging in pickleball or any physical activity. A proper warm-up routine helps increase blood flow to the muscles, improve flexibility, and prepare the body for gameplay demands. Dynamic stretching, light cardio exercises, and joint mobilization techniques are essential to a good
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for individuals with disabilities:
We are committed to ensuring that our website and mobile applications are accessible to individuals with disabilities. Please use the blue icon in the lower right corner to access many helpful tools. If you need assistance using our website, or assistance with a document on the website, we can help you. Please contact us by email at info@myorthoct.com or by telephone at 1.833.ORTHOCT (1.833.678.4628).
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