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A fracture is a mini-break or hairline crack in your bone, and even though it doesn’t result in a true break or splinter, it can still cause pain and disruption of motor function and normal activity in the affected area. Stress fractures usually result in pain or tenderness around the affected area.

What Causes a Stress Fracture?

As the name suggests, a stress fracture results from stress on the body. Usually this means a repeated motion or strain that puts force on a certain area and eventually results in the crack.

Because the bones of the lower leg and the foot bear the most weight in the body, stress fractures are most common in that area. Stress fractures are also most common in athletes or exercise enthusiasts who regularly put a large amount of repetitive strain on their bodies. Still, they can happen to anyone.

How Do You Treat a Stress Fracture?

Many different treatment options exist for a stress fracture, the first being to rest the area. Icing the area will help to bring swelling down. When you do resume activity, do so slowly and carefully.

If that doesn’t help, you may need a walking boot or other supportive device that will aid in healing. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, but that is fairly uncommon. Most stress fractures can heal with rest.

Can You Prevent Stress Fractures?

It is definitely possible to minimize the chances of getting a stress fracture in the first place. Stress fractures commonly occur when people launch new exercise routines without proper buildup, you should avoid doing too much too soon. Ease into a new exercise routine and build up your strength and ability slowly.

Wear supportive shoes, especially if you have high arches or flat feet, when working out. You should also cross-train to strengthen the muscles surrounding the bone and eat right to be sure you receive the proper nutrition your body needs. Avoid high heels whenever possible.

Wondering if you might be suffering from a stress fracture? If your problem is in the foot or lower legs, as is quite common with this issue, talk to a qualified orthopedic specialist at Southeast Orthopedics Specialistsabout your options. If the fracture is in another area of your body, see your doctor or another qualified physician, so you can get the problem resolved as soon as possible.

Best Exercises During Pregnancy

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Whether you are expecting a single baby or multiple, pregnancy puts your body to the test with an incredible number of changes. Most notably, a constantly growing belly and frequent hormone fluctuations put an immense amount of strain on your bones, joints, muscles and ligaments. You can keep your body in great shape by continuing to perform gentle exercise routines as long as they are permitted by your doctor. Here are five exercises that doctors often regard as safe throughout pregnancy. (more…)

New Approaches to Measuring Bone Loss and Bone Strength

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Bone density is the mineral matter per square centimeter of bones within the human body. This has traditionally been cited as a major indicator of bone strength. On the other hand, bones that are less dense are lacking mineral components which makes them more porous and susceptible to breaking. Density measurements are advised for those at risk of developing osteoporosis but this assessment alone may not prove sufficient. Dense bones can still be weak, however, new bone assessment techniques are being explored in hopes of providing a more well-rounded picture of overall bone health. (more…)

Best Cardio Workouts for Knee Pain Sufferers

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Many people suffering from knee pain may not be exercising properly. There is an assumption that a low-impact session that will go easy on the knees won’t give a high-intensity cardio workout with discourages people from working out. This, however, is likely to cause further injury.

In fact, there are a number of ways to get a good cardio workout without causing additional pain or damage to your knees. Of course, you should always consult with your orthopedic surgeon or Florida physical therapist regarding any exercises you do after a knee injury or surgery.

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Tips to Caring for a Sore Body After an Intense Workout

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You tried a new machine at the gym, you finally had a chance to go for a run or you spent your Saturday playing a game of softball. You felt great when it was over. Then you gradually began to feel some soreness. The next morning or even two days later, you could barely get out of bed. There’s a name for that. It’s delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).

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Simple Changes that Could Prevent Common Running Injuries

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Anyone who runs regularly has likely experienced an injury of some degree. Experts vary in their opinions on the common causes of running injuries. Some blame runners’ form while others accuse the surfaces on which they run or their bodies. Others look to running shoes as the culprit. In fact, running injuries can be a combination of the wrong shoes, training errors and anatomical issues.

In recent years, sports medicine physicians have changed their focus from treating running injuries to working to prevent them. Florida residents who are serious runners and want to avoid injuries would do well to work with an orthopedic specialist and perhaps a physical therapist who specialize in running to help ensure that their bodies, their form and their shoes are all working together to minimize the risk of injury and maximize the productivity of their runs.

Everyone is unique so it’s best to work with experts who can determine what is best for you. However, in general, there are steps that runners can take to improve their form and their strength. Further, everyone needs to find the right shoe for their needs.

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Tips to Preparing for Joint Replacement Surgery

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At Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, we know the thought of having joint replacement surgery can be stressful. One source of concern for many of our patients is the anticipation of pain and inactivity they will endure while they heal and recover from the surgery.

Our Jacksonville orthopedic surgeons and the rest of our team work closely with our patients both before and after surgery to help their recovery go as smoothly as possible. We have a team of experienced Florida physical therapists who provide physical rehabilitation services to our surgical patients and get them back to an active, pain-free life as soon as possible.

Patients can play an important role in how well and quickly they recover by taking some important steps before the surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss important preparatory steps that you should take before your surgery based on your health and your living situation. However, there are some things that most everyone should do.

Prepare Your Body

  • Eat a healthy diet and lose any excess weight. Being overweight or obese puts more stress on your joints.
  • If you smoke, stop. Smoking can slow down the healing process.
  • Generally it’s helpful to build your upper body strength. This will help you get around on crutches or other mobility devices you will need immediately after the surgery. However, ask your doctor and physical therapist to recommend exercises to do prior to surgery. You don’t want to exacerbate your current joint condition.
  • Practice with the mobility devices you will be using immediately after the surgery to help you get used to them.
  • Tell your orthopedic surgeon about any and all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) you are taking.

Make Appropriate Work Arrangements

  • Be sure to schedule enough time away from work and any restricted work activity after surgery. You don’t want to try to go back before you’re ready. Discuss the timeline with your orthopedic surgeon for when you can expect to be able to go back to the office or at least work from home. Remember that the length of recovery cannot be predicted with certainty. It’s better to arrange for more time off than you need rather than less.
  • If your job involves physical activity, your doctor may need to provide authorization to your employer to restrict that activity during your recovery.

Prepare Your Home and Support System

  • You should get your home ready for your recovery period before the surgery. Set up an area on the first floor where you’ll have everything you need within easy reach. Remove any tripping hazards like rugs. You’ll probably want to sleep on the first floor for a period of time.
  • Have a reliable support system in place. You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery, to and from your post-op and physical therapy appointments as well as to help with errands. You’ll also need help with daily tasks and taking care of any children, animals or anyone else who relies on you. If you live alone, see if a family member or friend can move in with you for awhile. If that’s not possible, a home healthcare provider or rehabilitation facility may be the best choice.

The team at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists has a great deal of experience helping patients prepare for their orthopedic surgery and their recovery period.  If you have any questions about preparing for joint replacement surgery or what to expect afterwards, call or contact us online.

Image Courtesy of: Southeast Orthopedic Specialist

How Protecting Your Back and Pelvis During Pregnancy Can Reduce Pain

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Many women experience discomfort in their back and/or pelvis during pregnancy. The muscles in the back, pelvic floor and stomach support the back and pelvis joints. However, as the uterus grows with the baby, it’s harder for these muscles to do their job. This can result in stiffness and pain.

In addition, the pelvis is impacted by pregnancy hormones like estrogen and relaxin. These hormones make the tissues that connect the ligaments around the pelvis stretch more. This can result in pelvic pain, which is actually more common in pregnant women than lower back pain.

So how can you help protect these areas while you’re pregnant, reduce pain and make movement easier? Experienced Florida physical therapists like those at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists’ three Jacksonville therapy centers will tell you that changing the way you move and position yourself can make a difference. Maintaining proper posture can be more difficult than ever when you’re carrying a growing person inside of you, but it’s extremely important to your physical well-being.

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