Blog Feed: Naples Orthopedic Surgeon

My son was born with diastrophic dysplasia. His 42-year old uncle also has this condition and now has severe arthritis. Will this happen to my son, too? Diastrophic dysplasia is a change in the size and shape of the hip joint. It’s caused by the abnormal development of bone and cartilage. The bone is bent [...]

Is it okay for me to exercise after my knee surgery?

Published on 2012-07-09 05:00:35

I hurt my knee many years ago and it was fixed by surgery. I would like to exercise my knee to keep it from getting hurt again. Is that a good idea and if so, what type of exercises should I be doing? The only person who can tell you if exercising your knee would [...]

Why are hemoglobin levels important after a total hip replacement?

Published on 2012-07-06 05:00:20

I’m writing to you from my husband’s hospital room. He had a total hip replacement two days ago. The nurse says he can go home as soon as the lab values come back with acceptable hemoglobin levels. What does this tell them? Hemoglobin helps transport oxygen into the cells and carbon dioxide out. It is [...]

Why are women less likely than men to get a knee replacement?

Published on 2012-07-05 05:00:20

I saw a report on TV that women are much less likely to get a knee replacement compared with men. Is this because women aren’t offered the option? Or do they just refuse? There is much debate around this question. It is clear that women are more likely to have knee osteoarthritis (OA) compared to [...]

What surgeon is best for a small scar after hip surgery?

Published on 2012-07-04 05:00:36

I want to have the new hip joint surgery with only a small scar. What should I look for in the surgeon for the best results? Total hip replacement (THR) using the minimally invasive (MI) approach is fairly new. It isn’t done by every orthopedic surgeon. The first step is to find out who does [...]

Is there a genetic link between osteoporosis and osteoarthritis?

Published on 2012-07-03 05:00:42

Is there any link between having osteoporosis and knee osteoarthritis? I’ve just been told I have osteoporosis. My mother had knee arthritis pretty bad. I don’t know if she had osteoporosis. I was wondering if there’s some kind of genetic connection. Genetics may very well be a part of developing either osteoporosis (brittle bones) or [...]

After hip replacement, can hip dislocation be prevented?

Published on 2012-07-02 05:00:12

My mother had a total hip replacement nine months ago. The surgeon made a very small opening to do the operation. She started dislocating the new hip two months later. She’s dislocated it six times now. Can anything be done to help her? A second surgery or revision surgery may be needed. X-rays should be [...]

After knee replacement are there alternatives to drugs for pain control?

Published on 2012-06-29 05:00:12

I am very allergic to most of the narcotics used after surgery. But I’m scheduled to have a total knee replacement. How can I manage the pain without using these drugs alone? There are some alternative ways to control pain that don’t involve any medications. Acupuncture, hypnosis, and electrical stimulation are three of the more [...]

Does the new tiny incision hip replacement shorten the hospital stay?

Published on 2012-06-28 05:00:34

I’m going to have a total hip replacement next week. The doctor is using the new tiny incision to do the operation. Will I be able to go home sooner with this type of incision? There’s still quite a bit of debate over the advantages and disadvantages of a shorter incision for total hip replacement [...]

Do knee joint replacements come in sizes?

Published on 2012-06-27 05:00:38

How does it work with knee joint replacements? Is it a one-size-fits-all joint? Do they come in small, medium, and large? I’m a pretty big guy, and I don’t want to get something that won’t hold me up. Implants do come in various sizes as well as different shapes and designs. All three are important [...]

What type of activity can I do after my hip joint replacement?

Published on 2012-06-26 05:00:12

I’m a retired nurse about to have my first hip joint replacement. I’d like to stay active after surgery. What can I do after the operation? Your doctor and physical therapist will guide you in the postoperative rehab. Generally, patients are told to put as much weight on the leg while walking as they can [...]

How can I minimize the risk of knee injury?

Published on 2012-06-25 05:00:44

Knee injuries seem to be quite common. What can an active person do to minimize the risk of hurting a knee? Many knee injuries happen because the person doesn’t do a thorough job of warming up and letting the muscles get ready for action. Stretching should always be done before exercising or playing sports. Strong [...]

Why, after two years, why do I still have pain after my total hip replacement?

Published on 2012-06-22 05:00:23

Two years ago, I had a total hip replacement. Within six months of the surgery, I started having thigh pain on that side. It has never gone away. Can anything be done about this? Thigh pain after a total hip replacement (THR) is not uncommon. In fact, up to 40 percent of patients may complain [...]

How does one hurt their ACL?

Published on 2012-06-21 05:00:42

I hear a lot about athletes tearing their ACL, but my sister did it and she wasn’t playing sports at the time. How does one hurt their ACL? The ACL tear is a common injury and, while it happens most often in sports, it is the result of a sudden stop and twisting motion, or [...]

Does dementia hinder recovery of a hip fracture?

Published on 2012-06-20 05:00:54

My 83-year old mother has been diagnosed with dementia. She has slowly declined in mental and physical abilities. She can no longer walk without a cane (indoors) or walker (outdoors). I’m worried about what will happen if she falls and breaks a hip. Will her dementia keep her from recovering? Dementia is a risk factor [...]

Prior to a knee replacement, how can I relieve the pain from osteoarthritis?

Published on 2012-06-19 05:00:58

I’m working my way through different treatments for knee pain from osteoarthritis. If I can hold off five more years, I’ll be able to get a total knee replacement. So far, I’ve tried anti-inflammatories, exercise, acupuncture, and injections. I really don’t want to take narcotics. Is there anything else I can try? Your orthopedic surgeon [...]

What kind of a scar can I expect from my hip replacement?

Published on 2012-06-18 05:00:50

I had a minimally invasive total hip replacement about a month ago. The doctor showed me photos of what to expect the scar to look like. I was expecting a two to three inch straight scar. Instead mine is curved and about four inches long. Why is my scar different from the photos I saw? [...]

What can I expect after my knee replacement surgery?

Published on 2012-06-15 05:00:13

I am planning to have a knee replacement soon. What can I expect right after the surgery? You should ask your doctor about the post-surgery routine at your hospital. There may be a patient education booklet that outlines what will be happening but there are some general things for which you can prepare. There will [...]

As I don’t have insurance, can I cut costs on my hip replacement?

Published on 2012-06-14 05:00:34

I am going to have a total hip replacement. The problem is that I don’t have any health insurance. In other words, I’m paying for it myself. Are there any good ways to cut the costs without risking other problems? The first thing to do is meet with the hospital or surgical center where you’ll [...]

On what basis do doctors decide to do a knee replacement?

Published on 2012-06-13 05:00:31

My mother has been having a lot of knee pain recently and difficulty walking. Her doctor is trying to convince her to have a knee replacement. On what basis do doctors decide to do a replacement? Total knee replacements are usually done because a patient has severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis of the knee, or [...]

When is it safe to resume sexual relations after a hip replacement?

Published on 2012-06-12 05:00:39

I had a total hip replacement six weeks ago. The doctor warned me about avoiding certain positions to prevent dislocation. My husband is interested in resuming sexual relations, but I’m too worried about the hip coming out of the socket. How long should we wait before it’s safe? Some doctors say you can engage in [...]

Can I get just one side of my knee replaced?

Published on 2012-06-11 05:00:16

I had a traumatic injury to my left knee back when I was in my early 20s. Now in my early 40s, I have very bad arthritis on the inner side of the joint. Can I just have one side of my knee replaced? Or do I have to have the whole thing torn apart? [...]

After his recent broken hip surgery, should my father get a joint replacement?

Published on 2012-06-08 05:00:32

Please help us make a family decision. Our 72-year old father fell six months ago and broke his hip. He had surgery to put a plate and screws in place to hold it together while it healed. The bone hasn’t healed. Should we wait another six weeks while waiting for bone healing, or should we [...]

Does osteoarthritis in one knee mean it’s inevitable for the other knee?

Published on 2012-06-07 05:00:10

My father was just diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his left knee. Our family doctor says it’s likely his other knee will develop symptoms at some point, too. Should we take Dad to see a specialist for this problem? Only a small number of patients with knee OA need to see a specialist. Most often it’s [...]

Will my hip replacement last the rest of my life?

Published on 2012-06-06 05:00:03

Is there any reason why a total hip replacement won’t last me the rest of my life? It depends on several things. Your age, the condition of your bones, and your activity level are all important. The reason you need the hip replacement is also a factor. The older you are, the more likely your [...]

What rehab will I need after having knee surgery?

Published on 2012-06-05 05:00:01

I’m going to have surgery on my knee to implant a piece of cartilage from a donor. What kind of rehab should I expect? Damage to the cartilage of this type is fairly common among young, active athletes. The cartilage doesn’t have much ability to heal on its own so without surgery, pain and joint [...]

What is “bead shedding”?

Published on 2012-06-04 05:00:05

My 82-year old mother had a new hip joint put in two years ago. After months of pain, the doctor says she needs a hip revision. The report says, “bead shedding” is the problem. What is this and how do we make sure she doesn’t get it again? Bead shedding means the implant has come [...]

How long can I expect my ACL surgery to stay healthy?

Published on 2012-06-01 05:00:46

I am a 23-year old semi-professional ballplayer. I recently ruptured my left ACL during a game. The doc says with surgery I can expect to return to sports at my previous level. How long can I expect my knee to hold up to that level of play? Long-term studies of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repairs [...]

How can I tell if my hip pain is bursitis or arthritis?

Published on 2012-05-31 05:00:09

The doctor sent me to a physical therapist for hip bursitis. I’ve had the same pain off and on for five years. After doing a lot of tests, the therapist seemed to think it could be arthritis. My internal rotation and hip flexion are especially limited in motion. How can I find out for sure [...]

Why are the results inconsistent after steroid injections in the knee?

Published on 2012-05-30 05:00:47

I was very disappointed with my latest steroid injection for knee pain. The first one I had worked great. This second one increased my pain at first. After a few days the pain level just went back to what it was before the injection. Why didn’t I get the same pain relief as the first [...]

How is the length of incision decided for the hip replacement?

Published on 2012-05-29 05:00:52

I saw a videotape in my doctor’s office showing two ways to do a total hip replacement. One had a much smaller incision than the other. How do they decide which method to use? The small incision is a fairly new method for hip joint replacement. It’s called a mini-incision. Many studies are being done [...]

Why must I take a blood thinner for my knee replacement?

Published on 2012-05-28 05:00:37

My doctor says I’m at high risk for blood clots so I have to take a blood thinner when I have my total knee replacement. What makes me so risky? How long will I have to take this drug? Blood clots called deep venous thrombosis (DVT) can be a serious complication. It’s important to try [...]

What is an intertrochanteric fracture?

Published on 2012-05-25 05:00:52

My mother has an unstable intertrochanteric fracture. She’s having a special set of pins and a plate put in place to hold it together. The doctor thinks she’s too old and too unstable for a hip replacement. What kind of fracture is this? Unstable means the broken ends of bone could come further apart under [...]

Will losing weight help lessen my knee pain?

Published on 2012-05-24 05:00:44

My doctor tells me that if I lose 50 pounds, my knees won’t hurt so much. I might even be able to avoid or at least delay surgery. Losing weight is very difficult for me. How can I know for sure this will work? Weight loss can be very difficult for some people. But there [...]

I’m 47, why shouldn’t I have a total hip replacement?

Published on 2012-05-23 05:00:39

The doctor says I’m too young (I’m 47) for a total hip replacement even though I have severe arthritis in one hip. What’s the worst that could happen if I went ahead and had it done anyway? Total hip replacement (THR) has always been reserved for older adults with pain and loss of function from [...]

When is it time to have a knee replacement?

Published on 2012-05-22 05:00:30

How do you know when it’s time to have a knee replacement? I don’t really have much pain, but I can’t do much with that knee. The decision to have a joint replacement takes into consideration many factors. First, your age and general health are important. Previous treatment for arthritis is reviewed. There may be [...]

After my hip replacement, why is one leg shorter than the other?

Published on 2012-05-21 05:00:49

Eighteen months ago I had a left total hip replacement. Everything went well but now the left leg is shorter than the right side. Should I have the right leg done now to even them out? That may not be necessary. The first step is to bring this problem to your doctor’s attention. It’s possible [...]

Can I get arthritis pain relief any other way than knee surgery?

Published on 2012-05-18 05:00:28

I have painful knee arthritis but I don’t want surgery for a joint replacement. What else can I do to get pain relief? Patients often want to delay or avoid joint replacement. Many doctors suggest pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs combined with exercise as an early treatment program. Patient education for improving posture and [...]

Is getting a hip replacement a wise choice?

Published on 2012-05-17 05:00:41

It seems like all my friends are getting hip or knee replacements. I’ve been told I need one, but I’m just not ready to jump in. Am I the only one holding out on this? Joint replacement is an accepted treatment for arthritis. It has been shown to be safe and effective for the majority [...]

What can I do to relieve my knee arthritis?

Published on 2012-05-16 05:00:35

I’m 55 years old with a developing case of knee arthritis. I know there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, but what can I do to keep it from getting worse? The main goals of treatment for osteoarthritis (OA) are to reduce joint pain and improve (or at least maintain) function. Function includes your daily activities to [...]

Why is my total hip replacement incision so long?

Published on 2012-05-15 05:00:58

I just had a total hip replacement last month. I was pretty dismayed when I saw how long the incision is–about 12 inches. I thought they could do this operation with a tiny opening now. The standard opening for hip joint replacement is still between five and 10 inches. Not all surgeons use the mini-incision [...]

Must I still exercise after fluid injections for knee arthritis?

Published on 2012-05-14 05:00:29

I’ve been a faithful exerciser to help my knee arthritis for the last five years. Now my pain is starting to get worse so the doctor has advised me to try the knee injections to put fluid in there. If this works will I still need to do the exercises? Joint fluid therapy sometimes referred [...]

After a total hip replacement can I still do Tai Chi?

Published on 2012-05-11 05:00:54

I used to enjoy doing Tai Chi before having a total hip replacement. Now I’m not sure it’s safe to stand on one leg like that. What do you think? You should get clearance from your doctor before taking up Tai Chi again. Weight-bearing and standing balance exercises are usually permitted. You can add these [...]

What is osteolysis?

Published on 2012-05-10 05:00:15

Can you tell me what osteolysis means? My husband’s knee replacement went bad because of this problem. Now he has to have another operation to replace the replacement. Osteolysis is a term used to describe a problem common to artificial joint replacements. It refers to an active process of bone breaking down and dissolving. Particles [...]

What can I expect from my total hip replacement?

Published on 2012-05-09 05:00:17

I had a total hip replacement almost a year ago. My pain is gone but I can’t really do anything more than I did before the operation. Is this normal? Several studies show problems can continue after a total hip replacement (THR). This is true even when pain is reduced or relieved. The reason for [...]

My new knee joint may come loose. What should I do?

Published on 2012-05-08 05:00:17

I just came back from my annual check-up with my orthopedic surgeon with some distressing news. The X-ray showed bone changes around the implant. There’s a risk the new joint can come loose. Should I wait and see what happens or jump right in and have another operation to repair the problem? Your surgeon has [...]

Which surgery is best for a broken hip?

Published on 2012-05-07 05:00:41

My 80-year old mother broke her hip this morning. She’s in the hospital waiting for surgery. When I looked on-line it seems there are two ways to treat this. One is with surgery to pin the fracture. The other is to replace the hip joint. How do we decide which is better? Your mother’s orthopedic [...]

Why does my total knee replacement still hurt?

Published on 2012-05-04 05:00:07

I’m a 46-year old woman with a knee problem. Last year I had a total knee replacement for severe osteoarthritis of my left knee. This year, I have pain and stiffness — a very disappointing result. I thought my younger age would be to my advantage. What went wrong? There are many, many possible reasons [...]

Why is my total hip replacement still painful?

Published on 2012-05-03 05:00:57

After seeing my two sisters get a total hip replacement I decided to take my doctor’s advice and have mine done, too. They both seem to have had such a good result, while I’m still struggling with pain and stiffness. Why the difference? There are many possible reasons for the difference. You didn’t mention how [...]

What is baja of the kneecap?

Published on 2012-05-02 05:00:11

What is baja of the kneecap? My surgeon has identified this as the main reason my total knee replacement is so stiff. Patellar baja refers to the position of the patella or kneecap. In patellar baja, the kneecap rides down low over the femur (thigh bone). This can just be the way you were born. [...]

Where is my ligamentum teres?

Published on 2012-05-01 05:00:52

I was in a car accident and broke my pelvis in two places. After the injury finally healed, I still had deep groin pain and my hip kept giving way. I had MRIs, X-rays, and CT scans done for my pelvis and nothing ever showed up. Finally I had arthroscopic surgery and the doctor found [...]

What causes the stiff feeling associated with arthritis?

Published on 2012-04-30 05:00:30

I’m starting to get stiff knees. The doctor says it’s early arthritis. What causes the actual stiff feeling? Sometimes I don’t have it at all. The exact cause of stiffness remains unknown. In general, joint and muscle stiffness seem to increase as we age. This is true whether or not we have arthritis. There are [...]

After a broken hip, should a patient exercise?

Published on 2012-04-27 05:00:41

My uncle fell and broke his hip last month. He’s been home on his own for a few weeks. We’re concerned about his safety home alone. Shouldn’t he be doing some kind of exercises for his hip or at least to stay active? Exercise is a key ingredient to improving balance, strength, function, and overall [...]

Which type of surgery is best for an ACL tear?

Published on 2012-04-26 05:00:25

I tore my left ACL in a skiing accident three years ago. Last month I injured my ACL on the other side while playing beach volleyball. I had a hamstring graft the first time. Should I have the same surgery this time? Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repairs are still done using either a patellar tendon [...]

Why did my total hip replacement become dislocated?

Published on 2012-04-25 05:00:15

A year ago I had a total hip replacement done. Last week I was out gardening on my hands and knees and it dislocated. I thought I was all healed. What happened? Many factors can play a part in hip dislocation after replacement. For example, which side of your hip is the scar located? Any [...]

How strong is a repaired meniscus?

Published on 2012-04-24 05:00:08

I just had a repair of a torn meniscus in my knee. I’m doing my rehab as prescribed but I’m worried that I might overdo it and pull the stitches out. Just how strong is the repaired meniscus? Studies of meniscal strength can only be done on cadavers (human bodies preserved for study). So there [...]

Is cold therapy used after a hip replacement?

Published on 2012-04-23 05:00:11

When I had my knee replaced the therapists used cold therapy on it everyday. It really seemed to help with the pain and swelling. I just had a hip replacement. The cold treatment was never used on the hip. How come? Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy is thought to help joints that are closer [...]

How much work will I miss having a partial knee replacement?

Published on 2012-04-20 05:00:36

I’m trying to save up enough vacation time to have a knee replacement done. I’m opting for the unicompartmental design to help speed up recovery. How much time should I expect to be out of work for this operation? You didn’t mention your age but since you are still working, we will assume you are [...]

How often do ligament tears occur?

Published on 2012-04-19 05:00:55

My 78-year old father took a misstep off a ladder and hurt his hip. It wasn’t broken or dislocated, but he tore a ligament inside the hip socket. How often does this type of injury occur? More often than we ever thought before! Only a few cases have been reported from time to time over [...]

Should an older adult get a partial or complete knee replacement?

Published on 2012-04-18 05:00:10

Please help me out. We are trying to advise my father about knee replacement surgery. He’s 78-years old and not very active. The doctor has advised just replacing the side of the joint that’s worn out. At his age, wouldn’t it make more sense to replace the whole joint and be done with it? Replacing [...]

Can osteoarthritis affect your balance?

Published on 2012-04-17 05:00:05

I have hip osteoarthritis on the left side. I notice I can stand on that leg and balance much better than I can on the other side without arthritis. Does this make sense? Standing balance depends on a variety of factors. Muscle strength of the hip and leg muscles is important, but so is strength [...]

Which ACL surgical repair is best?

Published on 2012-04-16 05:00:11

I am planning to have a torn ACL repaired surgically in my left knee. The surgeon has given me the option of a patellar-tendon or hamstring-tendon graft. From everything I’ve read, it looks like the hamstring graft is the better choice. Are there any disadvantages to this technique? Many studies have been done to compare [...]

How young is too young for a hip replacement?

Published on 2012-04-13 05:00:39

I’m 40-years old and in need of a hip replacement. My doctors says I must wait until I’m at least 50 because the implants don’t last more than 15 0r 20 years. Is there really that much difference in the results between patients my age and older patients? Only a few studies have been done [...]

Can I avoid surgery if my knee joint is wearing.

Published on 2012-04-12 05:00:09

I have X-rays to show the inner edge of my knee joint is wearing out faster than the outer edge. My doctor tells me they can replace just one side of the knee now. Is there anything else that can be done first that doesn’t involve surgery? Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has become very popular [...]

What is heterotopic ossification?

Published on 2012-04-11 05:00:58

My doctor tells me I have a mild case of heterotopic ossification, but my pain and limited function tell me it’s severe. What’s the difference between mild and severe from the doctor’s point of view? Good question! Sometimes the patient’s symptoms don’t match the underlying pathology. So you can end up with pain, stiffness, loss [...]

When is a total knee replacement patient ready to come home?

Published on 2012-04-10 05:00:56

My mother had a total knee replacement and was transferred from the hospital to a transitional unit. Then she went to a skilled nursing facility. Now she is in an assisted living unit. How can we tell when she is really ready to go home? Of course, she says she’s ready to go now! You [...]

What post hospital plans are needed for an elderly hip replacement patient?

Published on 2012-04-09 05:00:12

Last week, my 83-year-old mother broke her hip. She is still in the hospital, and we are trying to make plans for when she gets out. How can we tell if she should return home or go to a nursing home? There are a few ways to predict how a patient will do after surgery [...]

Would a knee replacement help my tightened muscles?

Published on 2012-04-06 05:00:03

I’m 77-years old and have pretty bad knee arthritis. I can’t straighten my left knee all the way anymore. It means I have to walk with a limp all the time. Would a knee replacement help get my motion back if the loss of motion is caused by muscle tightness? When a surgeon replaces a [...]

A hip replacement patient must “transfer” by himself. What does this mean?

Published on 2012-04-05 05:00:16

My father fell and broke his hip two days ago. The hospital staff says he can go home as soon as he can “transfer” by himself. What does this mean? Basic transfers include moving from a lying down position to sitting up, and from sitting to standing. These movements are necessary for using the toilet. [...]

Would a knee brace help with my arthritis?

Published on 2012-04-04 05:00:56

I’ve gradually started losing knee motion from arthritis. The X-rays show degenerative changes in and around the joint. Would it help to wear some kind of brace or splint at night to hold that knee straight? Loss of knee extension is called a knee flexion contracture. It means your knee is stuck in a position [...]

How can I avoid dislocating my replaced hip?

Published on 2012-04-03 05:00:19

I am having hip replacement surgery. How can I decrease my chances of dislocating my new hip? Be careful about where you have the surgery–and who does it. A recent study looked at the results of 59,000 Medicare patients 90 days after surgery. The number of hip replacements done by hospitals and surgeons made a [...]

How does taping the kneecap relieve pain from PFPS?

Published on 2012-04-02 09:07:29

Our 16-year old daughter has had constant knee pain from a problem called PFPS. She is seeing a physical therapist who wants to try taping the kneecap. How does this help the problem? Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a fairly common condition. Girls are affected more often than boys. With the increased participation in sports, [...]

Does a surgeon’s volume affect quality of work?

Published on 2012-03-30 05:00:27

I am having a hip replacement. My surgeon has good training but said he doesn’t do a lot of these procedures. Should I be worried? Research has shown that patients have better outcomes from hip replacement when their surgeons do many of these procedures per year. This may be especially important in smaller hospitals, where [...]

Can taping knees affect pain in sports activities?

Published on 2012-03-29 05:00:23

I have been working as a parent volunteer for our girls’ softball team. The coach has been doing some taping of the girls’ knees who have pain during squatting. I notice it seems to help some girls right away. Others don’t really seem to benefit. Why is that? Taping has been used by many coaches, [...]

Does a hip replacement affect a pregnancy?

Published on 2012-03-28 05:00:32

I’ve had a hip problem since birth called congenital hip dysplasia. The hip socket was not formed completely, and my hip slips in and out of the joint. This causes a lot of pain and affects my walking. My doctor is advising me to have the hip replaced, but I’m only 26 years old. If [...]

Does knee repair always require rigorous rehab?

Published on 2012-03-27 05:00:08

I’m planning to have an operation called microfracture to repair an old football injury to my right knee. I’ve been told to expect a rigorous rehab program. I’m not much of an exerciser anymore now that I’m not playing ball. Can I get by without this part? Microfracture is a method of treating defects in [...]

What affects the chances of getting hip arthritis?

Published on 2012-03-26 05:00:06

I’ve heard that my chances of getting hip arthritis are less if I live in the South. Is this true? The number of people with arthritis of the hip (called primary osteoarthritis) is not related to latitude or longitude. Ethnic background and genetics (passed down in families) seem to be much stronger factors. Compared to [...]

Can knee replacements set off airport security detectors?

Published on 2012-03-23 05:00:14

I have a brand new knee replacement (this year). When I travel, I notice some airport detectors go off and others don’t. Why is that? Many people have reported differences not only from airport to airport but even from time to time through the same security detector. To solve this puzzle, Dr. Robert F. Ostrum, [...]

Why are people with osteoarthritis encouraged to exercise?

Published on 2012-03-22 05:00:32

Why are people with osteoarthritis of the knee or hip encouraged to exercise? Sometimes people who have knee or hip pain from osteoarthritis are hesitant to do exercise. Along with weakening of the joints and the muscles around these joints, inactivity also leads to poor fitness. Exercise is a way to ease pain and improve [...]

Can knee pain/stiffness due to aging be alleviated?

Published on 2012-03-21 05:00:21

As I get older I notice more and more knee pain and stiffness. What are some simple things I can do to help with this problem? Exercise has really been shown over and over to be most effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis. A walking program is used by many people because it is easy [...]

Is it possible to kneel after a hip replacement?

Published on 2012-03-20 05:00:33

I am going in to have hip replacement surgery. Will I be able to kneel down to work in my garden once my hip heals? What about getting on my hands and knees in the garden? If your doctor does your surgery from the back part of the hip, called a posterior approach, you need [...]

Is there a hereditary link to ACL injuries?

Published on 2012-03-19 05:00:14

Two of our four sons have had to have an ACL repair from injury while playing sports. Their father had both ACLs repaired from different football injuries. Is there a genetic link or is it just the dumb luck of sports injuries? You pose a good question. There may be a hereditary connection but researchers [...]

Is it normal to have slightly different leg lengths?

Published on 2012-03-16 05:00:18

My legs are slightly different lengths. Is this normal? Many people have a slight difference in the length of their legs. Researchers estimate that 40 to 70 percent of the population has one slightly shorter leg. Whether a slight difference in leg length is a problem tends to depend on the individual. For example, in [...]

How common are knee replacements in younger adults?

Published on 2012-03-15 05:00:03

I’ve met more and more younger adults who have a knee replacement. I thought you had to be older before anyone would consider giving you a joint replacement. Is this changing? Improved implant design and survivorship (how long it lasts) have made it possible for younger adults to have a joint replacement. There’s also a [...]

A link between leukemia and hip joint metal implants?

Published on 2012-03-14 05:00:24

Is there any connection between leukemia and metal implants used for joint replacement? I know it sounds like a long shot but my father was just diagnosed with leukemia. His blood work has shown elevated levels of chromium in the past. The doctor always thought this was from his metal hip joint replacement but didn’t [...]

Signs of healing in arthroscopic microfracture treatment.

Published on 2012-03-13 05:00:04

Two months ago I had a microfracture treatment to the knee. The surgery was done arthroscopically. I’m supposed to be very careful to do exactly what the surgeon says to avoid displacing the healing tissue. How will I know when it’s healed enough to be safe? In this procedure tiny holes called are made in [...]

How is a neck fracture treated?

Published on 2012-03-12 05:00:50

What is a femoral neck fracture and how is it treated? We just got word that our elderly father is in the operating room having surgery for this problem. In a recent article, Dr. Robert Probe, an orthopedic surgeon in Texas offered a review of and some insight into surgical treatment of femoral neck fractures. [...]

Is it better to repair or replace in the case of meniscal tear?

Published on 2012-03-09 05:00:39

I’m 55 years old and have the start of a meniscal tear in my left knee. The surgeon is going to do arthroscopic surgery to shave off the torn edge. I thought the new direction with meniscal tears is to repair them, not remove them. You are right but only some patients are candidates for [...]

What is a comminuted acetabular fracture?

Published on 2012-03-08 05:00:48

What is a comminuted acetabular fracture? That’s what my brother just texted me that his wife has. What do they do for that? To help you understand your brother-in-law’s condition, let’s define an acetabular fracture. The acetabulum is the socket side of the hip joint. It is made of cartilage over bone just like every [...]

Can surgery be avoided in case of injured ACL?

Published on 2012-03-07 08:50:45

I’m on a handball league that’s fairly competitive. I recently injured my ACL but don’t want to have surgery if I can avoid it. What’s the best approach? Just rest? Give it time to heal? Or do I need some kind of special exercise program? Many studies have been done trying to answer these questions. [...]

Twin boys have identical mishaped hips, but not identical problems!

Published on 2012-03-06 05:00:31

We have twin boys who are both active in different sports. It turns out that they also both have a slightly misshaped hip. For one boy this has caused all kinds of hip problems, groin pain, and lost playing time on his soccer team. The other boy doesn’t seem affected at all. How come? With [...]

My father’s surgeon is using a device called an LISS to repair his fractured femur. What is it?

Published on 2012-03-05 05:00:49

Our 78-year old father is having surgery right now for a fractured femur. He broke it right above his fairly new knee joint replacement. The surgeon is using a device called a LISS to make the repair. How does this device work exactly? The Less Invasive Stabilization System (LISS) is a fixation device to hold [...]

My 14 year-old daughter has a hip impingement. What is normally done about this?

Published on 2012-03-02 05:00:29

Our 14-year-old daughter has developed an interest (and shown a great aptitude) for horseback riding. But a slight hip problem (called impingement) is limiting the amount of time she can be in the saddle and training. Her doctor has suggested surgery but wow! That seems pretty extreme. What is normally done about this problem? Femoroacetabular [...]

My total knee joint replacement problem is over-stuffing. What is it?

Published on 2012-03-01 05:00:12

For months after my new total knee joint it just seemed like something wasn’t right. I finally got a second (and a third) opinion. Both consulting orthopedic surgeons called my problem “over-stuffing.” What does this mean really? Creating the perfect total knee replacement requires a very delicate balance between bone, implant, muscles, and ligaments. The [...]

My doctor says I have hip bursitis. Is there really such a thing?

Published on 2012-02-29 05:00:32

Is there really such a thing as hip bursitis? My grandma used to complain of that but I thought it was an old lady complaint like lumbago. Now my doctor says this is what I have. So my original question still stands: is there such a thing? Pain along the side of the hip is [...]

My father’s having his knee joint replaced. Should he have the kneecap replaced also?

Published on 2012-02-28 05:00:12

My father is going to have his left knee joint replaced. The kneecap is in pretty good shape, so they are going to leave it alone. Are there any disadvantages of this? Maybe it’s better to replace everything all at one time. There is much debate about this topic. The surgeon has several options available. [...]

Is there any way that I can squeeze a few extra years out of my hip replacement?

Published on 2012-02-27 05:00:11

My orthopedic surgeon says to expect 10 to 15 years out of my new hip replacement. That doesn’t seem like much since I’m only 65 and longevity runs in the family. If my parents are any indication, I could live well into my 90s. Is there any way I can squeeze a few extra years [...]

I have Patello-Femoral Syndrome. Will I ever be able to get just my kneecaps replaced?

Published on 2012-02-24 05:00:49

I have very severe patellofemoral pain syndrome. Would it ever be possible to just have my kneecaps replaced? Patello-Femoral Syndrome (PFS) is a condition that causes pain in and around the kneecap (patella). In the normal, healthy adult, the patella moves smoothly over a groove on the femur (thigh bone). PFS can develop when the [...]

I dislocated my hip and it popped right back in. What should I do?

Published on 2012-02-23 05:00:18

I accidentally dislocated my hip this morning. It popped right back in but I am freaked. This has never happened to me before. Should I use crutches? What should I do? You may be experiencing a condition referred to as hip instability. Hip instability can include subluxation (partial dislocation), complete dislocation, and microinstability. The last [...]

I had a total knee replacement about three months ago. Why don’t I have my full motion back?

Published on 2012-02-22 05:00:35

I had a total knee replacement about three months ago. I never did get my full motion back. The doctor mentioned manipulating the joint and sending me back to PT for an intense rehab program. How soon should I do this? Your surgeon may have a time frame in mind so be sure to ask [...]

I am in rehab after a total hip replacement. What should I use to gauge my progress?

Published on 2012-02-21 05:00:14

I am in rehab for a total hip replacement. I confess I’m a type A person. Even though I try not to compare myself to others, I always end up checking to see how I’m doing based on how others are doing. What should I really be using to gauge my progress? You’ll be relieved [...]

My mother has both dementia and arthritis. Can she handle a knee replacement?

Published on 2012-02-20 05:00:18

My mother is in a nursing home and has early stages of dementia. She also has severe arthritis in her left knee. Some of the staff think if she had a knee replacement she would be more active and this might help with the dementia. Can people with dementia handle surgery and rehab? There are [...]

I’m having my third hip replacement. What’s changed recently?

Published on 2012-02-17 05:00:05

As my father used to say, “Here we go again!” I’m having my third(!) hip replacement. The first two have been great but I’ve worn one of them out. It was put in 20 years ago, so I’m doing a little research to find out what’s changed since that time and what I should look [...]

Do knee replacements require revision surgery often?

Published on 2012-02-16 05:00:54

My father had to have his total knee replacement taken out and replaced a second time. Does this happen very often? The rate of revision surgery for total knee replacements (TKRs) varies from country to country. According to a recent study, England has the lowest revision rate at four percent. New Zealand and Australia have [...]

How rare is it to have rheumatoid arthritis and need a hip replacement?

Published on 2012-02-15 05:00:32

I have rheumatoid arthritis in my hips and will probably have one of them replaced in the spring. I’ve gotten the impression that we are fairly rare and that most patients who need hip replacements have the other kind of arthritis. Just how rare is my situation? Keeping track of number and type of joint [...]

What is an accelerated rehab program for a torn ACL?

Published on 2012-02-14 05:00:00

My son is a good athlete who tore his ACL. The doctor says they will get him back on the field with surgery and an accelerated rehab program. What is an accelerated rehab program? Twenty years ago a ruptured or torn anterior cruciate ligament was stitched back together. This is called a primary repair. The [...]

My mother refuses to have a total hip replacement. What should we say?

Published on 2012-02-13 05:00:51

Mother refuses to consider having a total hip replacement because she has heard so many “bad” things about them. Despite our efforts, she can’t seem to say exactly what those “things” are. What can we say to convince her that hip replacements are safe and reliable? Your mother may have heard some reliable new information [...]

I’m experiencing arthritis in my ACL repair. Is this normal?

Published on 2012-02-10 05:00:13

I had an ACL repair about 10 years ago. I was able to return to competitive sports but now I found out I’m starting to get arthritis in that knee. I guess I thought the knee would be better than ever. Does this happen to everyone? Any major trauma or injury to the joints seems [...]

I have femoroacetabular impingement. If surgery doesn’t work, what next?

Published on 2012-02-09 05:00:14

If surgery doesn’t work for my hip impingement, what next? The exact problem I have is called femoroacetabular impingement. I don’t exactly know what the surgeon will do — that will be decided when they get a good look inside there to see what’s going on. I forgot to ask this question when I was [...]

At 66, should my mother get a rotor rooter or complete knee replacement?

Published on 2012-02-08 05:00:04

My mother is thinking about having an operation to rotor rooter her knee. It seems she may have some torn or loose cartilage causing pain, locking, and difficulty walking. We’re thinking at her age (66 years old), maybe she should just have a knee replacement. What do you suggest? The orthopedic surgeon is really the [...]

Our 16 year old son is getting hip surgery. What complications can we expect?

Published on 2012-02-07 05:00:30

I’ve pretty much decided to agree to surgery for our 16-year-old son who has a hip impingement problem. We are convinced that this will help prevent arthritis later in life. What are the most likely complications from a surgery of this type? FAI occurs in the hip joint. Hip pain, abnormal joint mechanics, and loss [...]

I have a torn meniscus, can they put a new one in?

Published on 2012-02-06 05:00:34

I’m 26-years old and at the peak of my career in athletics. I also have a torn meniscus that can’t be repaired. If I have it removed, can they put a new one in? Artificial cartilage is still in the laboratory and in experimental studies. Some surgeons are using allograft tissue for young patients with [...]

Joint pain vs. postoperative pain – which is worse?

Published on 2011-07-01 05:43:26

My adult children are pushing me to have a hip replacement. I don’t really want to have surgery. I think I can put up with the pain. But the kids are worried that I’m not active enough. Would a new hip really make that much difference? Do

Thigh muscle won’t contract after total knee replacement surgery

Published on 2011-06-30 05:00:44

A month ago, I had a total knee replacement. I’m working very hard with my exercises, but the thigh muscle just doesn’t seem to contract when I try to straighten or lift my leg. Why is this? Scientists refer to this as “inhibition.” T

What’s the difference between shoulder replacement and resurfacing?

Published on 2011-06-29 05:52:47

What’s the difference between shoulder replacement and resurfacing? Shoulder replacement is the removal of the shoulder socket and head of the humerus (upper arm bone). These parts are replaced with an artificial implant. On the shoulder socket

Pros and cons of hip joint resurfacing

Published on 2011-06-28 05:38:53

My father had a hip joint resurfacing surgery. He’s fairly active and thought this would help save the hip in case he needed a hip replacement later. Unfortunately, exactly four months later, his hip broke and he ended up with a total hip anywa

Will surgery fix trick knee?

Published on 2011-06-27 05:55:52

I have a trick knee that goes out on my every now and then. It’s from a torn ACL from an old football injury. If I have it repaired surgically will that stop it from giving way? It should but there are no guarantees. It may depend on the condit

How many patients who have surgery for shoulder dislocation develop arthritis?

Published on 2011-06-24 05:47:39

About five years ago, I dislocated my shoulder repeatedly. Eventually I had surgery to clean out the joint and tighten it up. I’m starting to notice some crackling noise in that joint when I move my arm overhead. Does this mean something has co

Hip joint resurfacing vs. hip joint replacement

Published on 2011-06-23 05:32:42

I thought I was going to be spared having a total hip replacement by going for joint resurfacing. But I ended up with a hip fracture and a second surgery to replace the hip anyway. No one seems to know what caused the problem. What are some possible

Knee creaks after ACL repair. Is this normal?

Published on 2011-06-22 05:50:56

I had an ACL repair done about 18 months ago. The knee works fine but it creaks and cracks a lot when I move it. Is this normal? You may be describing what’s called crepitus. This sound or feeling occurs when the back of the kneecap grates agai

When can patient play tennis again after arthoscopic shoulder surgery?

Published on 2011-06-21 05:42:15

I’m going to have an arthroscopic surgical procedure for a problem with a chronic left shoulder dislocation. I’d like to get back on the tennis court in time for the adult summer league. What kind of rehab program should I expect? Rehab p

90-year old tennis player breaks hip – will he walk unaided?

Published on 2011-06-20 05:28:07

My husband fell playing tennis at age 90 and broke his hip. He was always so proud he could still play. Despite his good mobility before the fracture, they are saying he probably won’t walk alone again. What do they base these absurd prediction

Knee replacement patients do less after surgery?

Published on 2011-06-17 05:46:44

I can’t help but notice my family and friends who’ve had a knee replacement do less and less after their surgery. I thought replacing the joint would free them up to do more. Is this a common pattern? Research data shows patients get reli

Arthroscopic vs. incision approach for golfer’s shoulder, which is better?

Published on 2011-06-16 05:37:00

I’m a semi-pro golfer with a bad shoulder from chronic dislocations. The surgeon has offered to do a stabilization procedure with either an open incision or arthroscopically. Is there much difference between these two operations? Improvements i

Strength training recomended for 81-year old golfer following hip fracture

Published on 2011-06-15 05:03:28

I’m 81-years old and doing pretty good. I did break my hip last winter but I’m back on the golf course now. I do notice that side seems weaker and gets tired faster when walking. What can I do to catch the bad side up to the good side? Un

Why can’t 45-year-old get knee replaced?

Published on 2011-06-14 05:42:03

I’m 45 years old and in need of a knee replacement but I can’t find a surgeon who’ll do it for me. I’ve heard the trend for joint replacement is on the rise. Does this mean more younger people are getting new knees? Or just mo

Frozen shoulder follows rule of threes – do you know them?

Published on 2011-06-13 05:30:19

I somehow managed to get a frozen shoulder. No one seems to know what caused it. My doctor has suggested a wait-and-see approach. She says these things tend to take care of themselves, and that it will probably go away on its own. Isn’t there s

How to improve your balance after hip replacement surgery

Published on 2011-06-10 05:58:56

I fractured my hip two years ago and had to have a hip replacement. I did the whole rehab thing and came out okay. I notice I’m still a little tippy from time to time — I have trouble keeping my balance. Is there anything I can do to impr

I’m having a total knee replacement. Should I have my kneecap replaced too?

Published on 2011-06-09 05:37:36

I’m going to have a total knee replacement in two weeks. The doctor is going to leave the kneecap alone unless I want it replaced, too. Should I have it replaced? Patellar replacement called patellar resurfacing may extend the life of the impla

Ski jump results in torn cartilage plus frozen joint, how is this possible?

Published on 2011-06-08 05:18:26

My 21-year-old son hurt his arm during a ski jump last winter. At first the surgeon thought he had a labral tear. But now his arm is frozen with no movement past 90 degrees. Does this makes sense? How can you have a torn cartilage and a frozen joint?

Are rehab and recovery the same for joint resurfacing as for joint replacement?

Published on 2011-06-07 05:49:14

I’m 59-years old. I’ve had one total hip replacement on the right. Now I’m looking at a joint resurfacing procedure for the left. I understand this new procedure is less invasive. Will the rehab and recovery afterwards be easier, to

Why does taping around the kneecap help reduce patellofemoral pain?

Published on 2011-06-06 05:32:57

Why does taping around the kneecap help reduce patellofemoral pain? I’ve tried everything else and this is the first thing that’s worked. Patellar (kneecap) taping has been used with good results in many patients with patellofemoral pain

Is 83 too old for rotator cuff repair?

Published on 2011-06-03 05:14:42

At age 83, am I too old for a rotator cuff repair? I’m not a senior athlete but I’d sure like to do more with this bum shoulder. An orthopedic surgeon would be the best one to answer your question. Age is an important variable but there a

Reader asks why U.S. lags in joint resurfacing

Published on 2011-06-02 05:49:29

Why is the U.S. so far behind in the treatment of hip arthritis? I’m finding all kinds of doctors in England, Australia, and Europe who do joint resurfacing. It seems to be very limited here in our country. I want this procedure done but I real

Will taking creatine supplements speed recovery after knee surgery?

Published on 2011-06-01 05:26:07

I’ve heard taking creatine supplements can help me get better faster after surgery. I’m going to have a knee replacement later this month. Is it too late to start taking this? Studies have shown that taking creatine supplements can help

College basketball player dislocated shoulder, is surgery necessary?

Published on 2011-05-31 05:08:25

Our college-aged son dislocated his shoulder playing basketball. We are trying to figure out if he needs surgery or not. The staff at the local clinic say he can wear a sling for eight weeks and come out alright in the end. Is this sound advice? Stud

Cancer survivor fears breaking hip

Published on 2011-05-30 05:43:15

I am a 10-year breast cancer survivor. As I get older, I’m aware that my chances of falling and breaking a hip go up every year. Is there any direct link between having cancer and having a hip fracture? There may be a link between cancer and hi

Do more people have cancer than have arthritis?

Published on 2011-05-27 06:00:52

I see the news focused on cancer all the time. None of my friends have cancer but we all have arthritis. Do more people really have cancer than arthritis? You and your friends are in the majority. Osteoarthritis (OA) is two and a half times more comm

Could intraoperative fracture during total shoulder replacement have been prevented?

Published on 2011-05-26 05:00:58

We are really bummed as a family. We all encouraged Mom to have a shoulder replacement and then her upper arm broke during the surgery. Is this a fluke? Could it have been prevented? There are many possible reasons why a bone fracture occurs intraope

Arthritis affecting hip range-of-motion, what can be done?

Published on 2011-05-25 05:38:31

We are really concerned that Dad’s hip range-of-motion is getting worse instead of better. He has fairly severe hip arthritis. Each time a therapist measures him, it seems to slip a few degrees. What can we do to help him at least maintain his

Why didn’t new treatment for torn ACL work?

Published on 2011-05-24 06:00:12

I tried a new treatment for a partially torn ACL in my left knee. The doctor used radiofrequency waves to heat it up and shrink it down. It didn’t work. My joint is still too loose. What went wrong? There are many factors that could cause a fai

Hair stylist concerned about arthroscopic surgery for shoulder

Published on 2011-05-23 05:48:50

I need to have surgery on my shoulder because it clicks and hurts whenever I raise my arms over my head. Since I work as a hair dresser, I use this motion all day long. The surgeon I saw wants to put two puncture holes in my shoulder to repair this p

How to diagnose hip bursitis

Published on 2011-05-20 05:32:43

I have a very tender and painful point along the side of my hip. My doctor thinks I have hip bursitis but nothing showed up on the X-ray or MRI. Is there some other way to figure out what’s going on? Hip bursitis can be difficult to diagnose ac

Will wearing a knee brace prevent an ACL tear?

Published on 2011-05-19 06:09:27

I think I might be prone to knee injuries. Would wearing a knee brace during volleyball practice help prevent an ACL tear? Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are a problem for many athletes in noncontact sports. Volleyball players are at incre

Pitching arm vulnerable to shoulder instability

Published on 2011-05-18 12:38:30

I’ve been to three orthopedic surgeons now about a problem with my pitching arm. It hurts, clicks, and feels like it’s going to pop out of the socket. No one could figure it out. I finally had an arthroscopic exam that showed a posterior

Lateral hip pain can have many causes

Published on 2011-05-17 05:27:39

I’m having some trouble with pain along the outside of my leg up by the hip. It the worst when I lie down on side. My sister is a nurse and says this is common in women my age (63 years old). She has it too and says not to worry about it. IR

If torn ACL is not repaired, will a total knee replacement be required?

Published on 2011-05-16 14:08:07

I’ve been told if I don’t have my torn ACL repaired I could end up with a total knee replacement. Is that true? Well, there’s some truth to your statement but there are many factors in between those two points. First it depends on h

What is the quadrilateral space syndrome (QSS)? My older brother is a javelin thrower in track and field events. Now he can’t compete because of this QSS problem.

Published on 2011-05-13 11:15:52

What is the quadrilateral space syndrome (QSS)? My older brother is a javelin thrower in track and field events. Now he can’t compete because of this QSS problem. Quadrilateral space syndrome is a rare but potentially disabling condition affect

I know I need a hip replacement but I just don’t know if I can face any more pain than I already have. I understand those first few days after the surgery can be brutal. Am I right?

Published on 2011-05-12 11:15:23

I know I need a hip replacement but I just don’t know if I can face any more pain than I already have. I understand those first few days after the surgery can be brutal. Am I right? Patients report a much smoother ride these days following tota

I’m an athlete training for a possible college scholarship and just tore my right knee ACL. If I rehab the knee can I begin training sooner that if I have surgery?

Published on 2011-05-11 11:15:07

I am an athlete in training with hopes for a college scholarship in volleyball and cross country. I just tore the ACL in my right knee. I’ve been advised to have surgery to repair it but it could mean losing my chances to compete in the fall. I

I injured my rotator cuff two years ago. I couldn’t afford to have surgery at that time, but now I can. Did I wait too long?

Published on 2011-05-10 11:15:50

I injured my rotator cuff about two years ago. At that time, I didn’t have insurance to pay for the surgery. Now with a new job, I want to get this taken care of. But I’m wondering if I waited too long. Do the results depend on the timing

I felt like I was having a charley horse in the front of my hip. My therapist gave me some press-up exercises to do and the pain went away. Why?

Published on 2011-05-09 11:15:02

I went to see a physical therapist about my hip pain. It felt like I was having a charley horse in the front of my hip. The therapist did some tests and gave me some press-up exercises for my back. My hip pain went away right away. How can doing back

What is a bone bruise? After a car accident that dislocated my hip, I found out I also had a bone bruise around my knee.

Published on 2011-05-06 11:15:59

What is a bone bruise? After a car accident that dislocated my hip, I found out I also had a bone bruise around my knee. Pain around the knee after traumatic hip dislocation is often caused by a bone bruise. The force of the impact through the knee m

I have a large tear in my rotator cuff. So far I seem to be able to move my shoulder okay. Surgery has been recommended. Do I really need it?

Published on 2011-05-05 11:15:56

I have a large tear in my rotator cuff. So far I seem to be able to move my shoulder okay. Surgery has been recommended. Do I really need it? Some rotator cuff tears can be treated conservatively with rehab. But these are usually not in athletes who

My wife and I both broke our hips. We both had surgery to repair the damage. My wife received a pate and sliding compression screw. My surgeon used a screw through a short nail. What’s the difference and why didn’t they do the surgery in the same

Published on 2011-05-04 11:15:24

My wife and I are snowbirds. We winter in Florida and summer in Idaho. She broke her hip while we were in Idaho. The next year I broke my hip while in Florida. We both had surgery to repair the damage. Her surgeon put in a plate and sliding compressi

What is a “soggy knee”? My doctor gave me this label after a total knee replacement surgery.

Published on 2011-05-03 11:15:32

What is a “soggy knee”? My doctor gave me this label after a total knee replacement surgery. Some patients have increased local bleeding and leg swelling after knee joint replacement. This condition interferes with normal motion and is re

My orthopedic doctor gave me two steroid injections in my shoulder. The next step is to see a physical therapist. What will this do for me?

Published on 2011-05-02 11:15:52

My orthopedic doctor gave me two steroid injections in my shoulder. The next step is to see a physical therapist. What will this do for me? Physical therapy may be helpful when there is a subacromial (SA) bursitis or impingement syndrome. SA bursitis

I’m just starting to research the idea of a metal hip joint resurfacing procedure. What can you tell me about this treatment?

Published on 2011-04-29 11:15:28

I’m just starting to research the idea of a metal hip joint resurfacing procedure. What can you tell me about this treatment? Hip resurfacing arthroplasty is a type of hip replacement that replaces the arthritic surface of the joint but removes

I read that blood clots are very common after knee joint replacements. How often does this happen and what causes it?

Published on 2011-04-28 11:15:01

I read that blood clots are very common after knee joint replacements. How often does this happen and what causes it? Actually, doctors report the chances of a blood clot after a total knee replacement (TKR) are very high. The medical term for this i

I had a steroid injection into my shoulder last week. My pain got much worse. What went wrong?

Published on 2011-04-27 11:15:08

I had a steroid injection into my shoulder last week. My pain got much worse and I broke out in a skin rash. I’m not going to do that again. What went wrong? You may have had what experts refer to as a corticosteroid flare. In a small number of

Does it make a difference in recovery for patients based on the type of hip fracture they have?

Published on 2011-04-26 11:15:40

Does it make a difference in recovery for patients based on the type of hip fracture they have? My aging aunt has what’s called an intertrochanteric hip fracture. I got the impression from the hospital staff that this is the worst kind. Why is

I had an ACL-repair about a month ago. I’m getting my motion back nicely but I still can’t do all the things I expected by now. Is this normal?

Published on 2011-04-25 11:15:47

I had an ACL-repair about a month ago. I’m getting my motion back nicely but I still can’t do all the things I expected by now. Is this normal? Getting knee motion back after surgery is called mechanical recovery. Being able to perform yo

I had my shoulder joint resurfaced and also had a second surgery, but apparently the first implant wasn’t even loose. What could have been causing me pain?

Published on 2011-04-22 11:15:59

I had my shoulder joint resurfaced in an effort to avoid a total shoulder replacement. It didn’t work and I ended up with a second surgery. But it turns out the first implant wasn’t even loose. What could have been causing all my painful

I didn’t fall or hurt myself that I can remember. How can I find out what’s causing my pain?

Published on 2011-04-21 11:15:24

How can I find out what’s causing my hip pain? I don’t notice it so much during the day but at night it aches like a son of a gun. I didn’t fall or hurt myself that I can remember. It just started bothering me all of a sudden. There

My kneecap is causing me pain. If I have a release of fibers alongside the kneecap, will I get lasting results?

Published on 2011-04-20 11:15:05

The kneecap on my left side is rubbing the wrong way causing pain. My pain might get better if I have a release of the fibers alongside the kneecap. Is this a short-term improvement or will I get lasting results? Many studies have been done following

What is the proper treatment for a shoulder blade fracture?

Published on 2011-04-19 11:15:34

What is the proper treatment for a shoulder blade fracture? Making the proper diagnosis is key. They are frequently overlooked. Ninety percent of the time, conservative treatment rather than surgery is adequate. Conservative treatment includes ice in

My husband broke his hip. The surgeon explained that there are two options: repair or replace the hip. Which is best?

Published on 2011-04-18 11:15:24

My husband is quite a bit older than me and needs surgery to repair a displaced, broken hip. The surgeon has explained the two options: repair or hip replacement. It does make sense to try and repair it first. If it doesn’t work, then we can st

What’s the optimal time to keep an ice pack on a painful knee? I’ve heard anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. Does it make any difference?

Published on 2011-04-15 11:15:39

What’s the optimal time to keep an ice pack on a painful knee? I’ve heard anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. Does it make any difference? Studies show that putting ice on the skin over the knee starts to cool the joint in the first five

I broke my arm and tore my rotator cuff. The surgeon says I need a joint replacement. Do I?

Published on 2011-04-14 11:15:50

From a simple fall, I ended up with a broken arm and a torn rotator cuff. The surgeon is talking about me needing a joint replacement. Can’t this just be repaired? Must I really lose a perfectly good joint? I don’t have arthritis or anyth

Dad is in the hospital with a hip fracture. This is a first for our family. What can we do to help him maintain his independent lifestyle once he’s home?

Published on 2011-04-13 11:15:20

Dad is in the hospital with a hip fracture. This is a first for our family. What can we do to help him maintain his independent lifestyle once he’s home? Many older adults who survive a hip fracture are left with problems they didn’t have

After using an ice pack on my knee, the joint feels really frozen. Is there any actual change in the temperature inside the joint? Or is it just the skin that gets cold?

Published on 2011-04-12 11:15:53

After using an ice pack on my knee, the joint feels really frozen. Is there any actual change in the temperature inside the joint? Or is it just the skin that gets cold? Today’s technology has brought us new temperature measuring systems. These

I’ve been told that an open repair of my torn rotator cuff is best, but I would like a smaller incision. Is the open method really so superior?

Published on 2011-04-11 11:15:01

I’ve been told that an open repair of my torn rotator cuff may give the best long-term results. But I like the idea of a smaller incision with the less invasive operations. Is the open method really so superior that I should take the cut? The o

My Aunt Luella is afraid her diabetes and obesity will kill her on the operating table. How can I calm her fears?

Published on 2011-04-08 11:15:18

My Aunt Luella is a very large, but very active woman. She could really use a total hip replacement, but she’s afraid her diabetes and obesity will kill her on the operating table. What can I tell her to calm her fears? It may be best if she ha

I’m 66, in excellent health, and about to have a total knee replacement. Is there any way to predict the results of the surgery?

Published on 2011-04-07 11:05:24

I’m 66 years old and in excellent health but I do have osteoarthritis of my right knee. I’m thinking about having a total knee replacement. I expect I’ll have a good result but I’ve heard of people who end up worse off after s

My rotator cuff repair didn’t hold and I’m not sure if I should have it done again. What do you advise?

Published on 2011-04-06 11:15:30

I’m so frustrated because my rotator cuff repair didn’t hold. I don’t know if I should bother having the surgery done again or not. What do you advise? There are many reasons why rotator cuff repairs fail. Knowing the mode of failur

We think my 87-year old father should get a hip replacement. What do the doctors say?

Published on 2011-04-05 11:15:50

My father is a very active 87-year old man. But his arthritis has really slowed him down in the last two years. We think he should get a hip replacement. It’s possible he could live another 10 years or more. He’s not convinced it’s

My 72-year old mother,who has a history of alcohol abuse, fell and now has knee pain. Will an X-ray show anything if it’s not broken?

Published on 2011-04-04 10:58:25

My 72-year old mother has a long history of alcohol use and now has osteoporosis. She’s been complaining of knee pain for the last two weeks. We think she fell on her knee but she won’t admit it. Would an X-ray show anything if it’s

Have you ever heard of an HAGL tear? What kind of an injury is this?

Published on 2011-04-01 11:05:39

Have you ever heard of an HAGL tear? That’s what my rugby-playing son got at his final championship game. He says it was worth it but he may never play again. What kind of an injury is this? HAGL describes a humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral

I considering have a hip joint resurfacing operation. What kind of problems are likely?

Published on 2011-03-31 11:05:06

I’m thinking about having an operation called hip joint resurfacing. But I’ve heard the metal used can cause problems. What kind of problems are likely? Early attempt to use hip resurfacing were done with titanium alloy, cobalt chrome, al

My mother has knee pain that’s being called an insufficiency fracture. What is it?

Published on 2011-03-30 11:05:31

What is an insufficiency fracture? My mother was told that’s what’s causing her new knee pain. Insufficiency fracture is a small subset of a larger group of fractures called stress fractures. Insufficiency fractures are caused by the effe

I dislocated my right shoulder and require surgery. How long will it take to get my strength back?

Published on 2011-03-29 11:05:07

I am a volleyball player at the collegiate level. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dislocated my right shoulder while playing. Now that we are in the off-season, I’m going to have surgery to repair it. How long will it take to g

I’m having a mini-hip replacement. How much time will it take for rehab, etc.

Published on 2011-03-28 11:05:36

I’m going to have one of those new fangled mini-hip replacements. I’m supposed to be in and out on the same day. What should I figure on for recovery time with rehab and all? An interesting discovery has been made about the post-operative

Having gotten off a bus for 10 years, my mother’s hurt knee was diagnosed as an insufficiency fracture. Why was this time different?

Published on 2011-03-25 11:05:37

My mother was getting off the bus when she had severe, sharp knee pain. The MRI showed a stress fracture. The doctors are calling it an insufficiency fracture. She’s gotten off that bus everyday for the last 10 years. Why was yesterday any diff

I’m told I can have an open or closed Bankart repair for my shoulder. Which one should I choose?

Published on 2011-03-24 11:05:53

Okay so please help me out here. I’ve been told there are two ways to have my dislocating shoulder repaired. The operation is called a Bankart repair. They can do it open or closed. Which is better? How do I know which one to choose? Do I get a

I have heard of range-of-motion exercises, but what are they? Do they make a joint stronger?

Published on 2011-03-23 11:05:45

I have heard of range-of-motion exercises, but what are they? Do they make a joint stronger? Range-of-motion exercises are exercises given to a patient following an injury, surgery, or procedure on a joint that may affect how well the joint can move.

I’ve heard a lot about ACL tears in the knee. Are PCL tears just as bad?

Published on 2011-03-22 11:05:51

I’ve heard a lot about ACL tears in the knee. Are PCL tears just as bad? There are two major ligaments in the knee joint: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). By far, the ACL is injured or damaged more

What causes a frozen shoulder?

Published on 2011-03-21 11:05:01

What causes a frozen shoulder? Frozen shoulder is also known as adhesive capsulitis. It is a loss of shoulder motion due to tight soft tissues around the shoulder. A restricted joint capsule is also part of the problem. Pain and limited motion usuall

Is it possible that a doctor would want to do a partial replacement on one hip and a total replacement on the other?

Published on 2011-03-18 11:05:13

Is it possible that a doctor would want to do a partial replacement on one hip and a total replacement on the other? The type of replacement a doctor chooses to do depends on the damage, the patient’s health and condition, and the state of the

I had knee replacement. After the operation I used pumps to prevent blood clots. Can I avoid these?

Published on 2011-03-17 11:05:16

Six months ago, I had a total knee replacement. After the operation, I used pumps on my legs to prevent blood clots. They were very bulky and uncomfortable. I’m planning to have my other knee joint replaced next month. Is there any way I can sk

What is bursitis? I’ve heard of it and wonder if that’s what’s causing my shoulder pain.

Published on 2011-03-16 11:05:55

What is bursitis? I’ve heard of it and wonder if that’s what’s causing my shoulder pain. Bursitis is an infection, irritation, or inflammation of a bursa. The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac or cushion. There are many bursae throu

My mother was told that she should lie in bed a certain way after her hip replacement. Why is that?

Published on 2011-03-15 11:05:09

My mother was told that she should lie in bed a certain way after her hip replacement. Why is that? After patients have hip surgery, there are some positions that they must avoid for a while and others that are most comfortable and will help the hip

I had knee replacement about four months ago. If I could get past the pain, I believe my strength would return. What’s my next step?

Published on 2011-03-14 11:05:58

I had a total knee replacement about four months ago. If I could just get past the pain, I think I could get back my strength. What’s the next best step for me? Actually, a recent study from the University of Florida showed that knee pain is a

Is there any way to tell if a shoulder injury is minor, or if it may be a rotator cuff tear?

Published on 2011-03-11 00:00:47

Is there any way to tell if you have just hurt your shoulder by pulling it or twisting it, or if it is something more serious like a torn rotator cuff? The only way to be sure that your injury is a rotator cuff injury is to have it diagnosed by your

I am under 55 and my doctor says I should have a partial hip replacement. Can you explain what that is?

Published on 2011-03-10 11:41:02

My hip is going to be replaced but I am under 55. My doctor says that people my age who are active should have something called a partial hip replacement. Can you explain what that is? A total hip replacement, called a total hip arthroplasty (THA) li

I was a marathon runner prior to my knee replacement as a result of arthritis. How long will it take to repair?

Published on 2011-03-09 11:09:38

I was a marathon runner all my life until arthritis laid me up. I’ve had a total knee replacement. I’m working to get back to running. It’s been a year and I still can’t run up and down stairs as part of my training. The docto

I suspect that I may have a torn rotator cuff. What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?

Published on 2011-03-08 00:00:07

I suspect that I may have a torn rotator cuff. I dislocated my shoulder several years ago and I still have pain sometimes, especially if I’m trying to reach up for things. What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear? Pain in your shoulder can

My son, in his earyly 20′s, was diagnosed with osteonecrosis. What is this?

Published on 2011-03-07 11:57:33

My son, who is only in his early 20s, has been diagnosed with something called osteonecrosis of the hip. The doctor told him that part of his bone had died. What does that mean? Osteonecrosis of the hip is a condition where part of the bone does not

My doctor examined my knee and is certain I don’t have a meniscus tear. Should I get an MRI?

Published on 2011-03-04 11:47:28

My doctor examined my right knee for a meniscus tear. She seems certain that’s not the cause of my pain. Should I press for an MRI to be sure? Damage to the meniscus is fairly easy to diagnose based on the patient’s history and a few clin

A 54 year old, fell playing ice hockey and now feels a “squishy” sensation in his shoulder. What should he do?

Published on 2011-03-03 00:00:55

I’m 54-years old and still like to get out on the ice and play broom ball or a little pick up game of ice hockey. Last season, I fell onto my elbow and felt a squishy sensation in my shoulder. Now I can hardly lift my arm up and hold it there w

My mother’s hip problem has been diagnosed as arthrokatadysis. What is it?

Published on 2011-03-02 11:13:48

My mother has been diagnosed with a hip problem called arthrokatadysis. I can’t find anything on this. What is it? Arthrokatadysis means there is a subsidence of the joint. Subsidence is the medical term for sinking-in. Quite literally, the joi

After my son injured his knee in a soccer game, the MRI showed a medial meniscus tear, but an arthroscopic exam revealed no tear. Why?

Published on 2011-03-01 10:57:15

My son injured his knee in a soccer game. The arthroscopic surgery showed there was nothing wrong despite chronic swelling and pain. The MRI showed a tear of the medial meniscus. Why was the arthroscopic exam normal? Arthroscopic examination of the k

My 78-year old aunt dislocated her shoulder. Will putting off surgery make things worse?

Published on 2011-02-28 00:00:02

My 78-year old aunt dislocated her shoulder last week. She’s wearing a sling and wondering how to decide if she should have surgery. How can we know what’s best for her? Is putting surgery off likely to make things worse in the end? The n

The doctor gave my mother a shot into her hip, to find out if it was her hip or back causing her pain. How does that work?

Published on 2011-02-25 00:00:32

My mother had a shot into her hip – the doctor said it was to find out if it was really her hip causing her hip pain or if it was her back. Could you explain how this works? Many people who have hip or groin pain could have arthritis in the hip

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