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Back pain doesn’t necessarily require medical attention in all cases. Mild pain that doesn’t overly impair your movement or daily activities often goes away on its own. A bit of soreness should be relatively easy to treat with over-the-counter remedies. However, there are many instances when it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor.

Longevity or Consistency

Most lower back pain will subside in time, but that’s not always the case. If you’ve been treating your back pain for a week or more and it still isn’t going away, you should consult a doctor. Is your back pain consistently associated with certain movements or positions? Is it mostly when you lie down or sit in a certain way? There are a number of issues that can cause those symptoms and some are quite serious. Avoid straining yourself and be sure to see you doctor as soon as possible.

Spreading

Pain that spreads is never a good sign. Sore muscles or mild bruising are typically localized. The pain doesn’t usually drift from your back to your legs or arms. If you’re experiencing pain that spreads from one location to another, you need to be examined by a doctor. This could be indicative of nerve damage or other serious conditions. Spreading pain is commonly known as referred pain, and it may be a sign of ovarian cysts, gallstones, shingles, or a number of other medical issues.

Weakness, Numbness, or Tingling

Sudden, unexplained weakness in your limbs, back, or other areas should always be examined thoroughly. Tingling or numbness that’s unexpected or severe needs to be brought to the attention of your doctor. Numbness and tingling are frequently symptoms of nerve damage, but there are many reasons that they could occur. Your doctor needs to be consulted.

Weight Loss

Weight loss that occurs without warning or explanation should always be discussed with your doctor. That includes when weight loss is experienced alongside lower back pain. Schedule an appointment to speak with your doctor, and be sure to share any other symptoms or changes that you’ve noticed. The more information that your doctor has, the better.

Redness or Swelling

You’re probably familiar with redness or swelling being associated with bug bites, but that’s definitely not the only possible cause. Swelling or redness on your back needs to be monitored and reported. Let your doctor know if it spreads to other areas, and tell your doctor if there’s any associated soreness along with the back pain. You should also report any other symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.

Emergencies

It should go without saying that you need to speak with medical professionals whenever there’s an emergency. While 911 can respond quickly, it’s also a good idea to follow up with your physician. If you lower back pain occurs with fever, after an accident, or arises along with bladder control or bowel issues, you need to inform your doctor. Chiropractic spine care in Jacksonville, FL, can make a massive difference in your treatment and your quality of life.

Know When to Seek Medical Care for Lower Back Pain

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Back pain doesn’t necessarily require medical attention in all cases. Mild pain that doesn’t overly impair your movement or daily activities often goes away on its own. A bit of soreness should be relatively easy to treat with over-the-counter remedies. However, there are many instances when it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor.

Longevity or Consistency

Most lower back pain will subside in time, but that’s not always the case. If you’ve been treating your back pain for a week or more and it still isn’t going away, you should consult a doctor. Is your back pain consistently associated with certain movements or positions? Is it mostly when you lie down or sit in a certain way? There are a number of issues that can cause those symptoms and some are quite serious. Avoid straining yourself and be sure to see you doctor as soon as possible.

Spreading

Pain that spreads is never a good sign. Sore muscles or mild bruising are typically localized. The pain doesn’t usually drift from your back to your legs or arms. If you’re experiencing pain that spreads from one location to another, you need to be examined by a doctor. This could be indicative of nerve damage or other serious conditions. Spreading pain is commonly known as referred pain, and it may be a sign of ovarian cysts, gallstones, shingles, or a number of other medical issues.

Weakness, Numbness, or Tingling

Sudden, unexplained weakness in your limbs, back, or other areas should always be examined thoroughly. Tingling or numbness that’s unexpected or severe needs to be brought to the attention of your doctor. Numbness and tingling are frequently symptoms of nerve damage, but there are many reasons that they could occur. Your doctor needs to be consulted.

Weight Loss

Weight loss that occurs without warning or explanation should always be discussed with your doctor. That includes when weight loss is experienced alongside lower back pain. Schedule an appointment to speak with your doctor, and be sure to share any other symptoms or changes that you’ve noticed. The more information that your doctor has, the better.

Redness or Swelling

You’re probably familiar with redness or swelling being associated with bug bites, but that’s definitely not the only possible cause. Swelling or redness on your back needs to be monitored and reported. Let your doctor know if it spreads to other areas, and tell your doctor if there’s any associated soreness along with the back pain. You should also report any other symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.

Emergencies

It should go without saying that you need to speak with medical professionals whenever there’s an emergency. While 911 can respond quickly, it’s also a good idea to follow up with your physician. If you lower back pain occurs with fever, after an accident, or arises along with bladder control or bowel issues, you need to inform your doctor. Chiropractic spine care in Jacksonville, FL, can make a massive difference in your treatment and your quality of life.

Anterior vs Posterior Hip Replacement Surgeries: Know the Difference

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If you need hip joint replacement surgery in Jacksonville, FL, chances are you are debating whether to have an anterior or posterior procedure done. What you choose should be in consult with your doctor and you should consider what they recommend. Here, though, are the key differences.

Posterior Surgery

This is done by making an incision through the back of the hip while the patient lies on their side. Posterior hip joint replacement in Jacksonville, FL, is considered to be the “traditional” approach to hip surgery. If you have had a relative who got a hip replacement several years ago, chances are it was a posterior surgery. That should give you an idea of the recovery time involved.

Anterior Surgery

In an anterior procedure, the incision is made in the front and the patient lies on their back. It is a relatively new approach but is quickly becoming preferred by surgeons and replacement specialists and because of the reduced impact on the patient, primarily during recovery. Your hip joint replacement center in Jacksonville, FL can give you an idea of what its surgeons and specialists generally recommend.

The Differences

An anterior surgery involves an internervous/intermuscular plane, which means the surgeon can get to the hip between the muscles without having to detach or cut them. That means less trauma on the area under surgery and generally a quicker recovery period. Less of the patient is cut or even moved around, so there is less to heal. Additionally, an anterior approach can be more accurate as new technology in x-ray guidance can be utilized during the surgery.

With a posterior surgery, several muscles must be cut or separated to get access to the joint. This obviously will increase the healing time. The benefit of a posterior procedure, however, is that it has been done many more times than an anterior approach, so most surgeons have seen the possible complications.

Pros and Cons

The most attractive selling point of the anterior approach is the reduced healing time. Healing is not only faster, it is less painful, which also promotes quicker healing processes. Additionally, there are fewer post operation restrictions put on an anterior procedure. Recovering patients can bend and stoop, reach their feet, cross their legs and sleep in any position they want to sleep. This also helps in recovery because it means less stress for the patient, both physically and mentally.

The cons to anterior hip joint replacement in Jacksonville are that because it is relatively new, surgeons are still learning the unique aspects of the surgery. Additionally, there are some increased risks during surgery, primarily related to blood loss and some patients experience post-operative numbness.

The pro to a posterior approach is the known factor of the surgery. It is almost considered a routine surgery because it has been the preferred approach for so long. There are, however, many restrictions put on the patient post-surgery and the healing process is generally slower because there is more cut muscle to heal.

Those are the key differences. You should listen to your doctor regarding what type of hip replacement surgery you need and factor in joint replacement surgery cost in Jacksonville, FL, before making any decisions. Do not be afraid to recommend your preference, however, based on this information.

Debunking the Myths about Joint Replacement Surgery

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Are you thinking about undergoing joint replacement surgery? Read this article to separate fact from fiction before opting for surgery, and consult with your spine care doctor in Jacksonville, FL, if you have any questions.

You Shouldn’t Visit the Dentist before Joint Replacement Surgery

True. Dental work, including routine cleanings, can increase the risk of infection. Having dental work done can increase the number of bacteria in your bloodstream and could possibly cause complications or delay healing for your newly replaced joint. The best thing to do is avoid dental work for three weeks before your surgery and three weeks after your surgery.

Don’t Put off Having Joint Replacement Surgery

It depends. Some studies suggest that getting your painful joints replaced sooner will protect your bones and cartilage from further damage and deformities down the road. But it all depends on the needs of the individual. Sometimes less invasive procedures will be better for the patient. It is always a good idea to seek another opinion from a different doctor before deciding on surgery.

You Should Be over 60 Years Old for a Knee or Hip Replacement

False. There is no age requirement to have knee or hip replacement. Modern technology has given us replacement joints that will last for a lifetime. If your quality of life is suffering due to hip or knee pain, don’t let age be a determining factor. Talk to the doctors at the spine care center in Jacksonville, FL to weigh your options.

Hip and Knee Replacements Only Last 10 Years

False. In the past, artificial joints only lasted for about 10 years. Now, with technological improvements, artificial hips and joints can last 15 to 20 years or more! You can help make your replacement joint last longer by doing rehab exercises following surgery, avoiding high impact activities, and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Joint Replacement Surgery Can Cause Hair Loss

True. Surgery of any kind puts stress on the body, and any kind of surgery or operation can lead to hair loss or shedding. Some patients report extra hair loss following joint replacement surgery. This hair loss is only temporary and will grow back.

You Can’t Have Sex after Joint Replacement Surgery

False. It is best to wait for 2 to 3 weeks following surgery before having sex. But, after you have healed, you can have sex again. Listen to your body and try a different position if you feel discomfort or pain.

Not Everyone Needs to Do Prehab Exercises before Surgery

False. Everyone can benefit from doing prehab exercises before they have joint replacement surgery. The stronger and fitter you are before surgery, the more quickly and easily you will recover after surgery.

You Can’t Wear High Heels after Joint Replacement Surgery

False. Immediately following joint replacement surgery, you can’t wear high heels. You don’t want to risk falling and injuring your newly replaced joint. But, after 2 to 3 months of recovery, you can gradually start wearing high heels again.

5 Common Causes of Hand Pain

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We use our hands so much every day, and when they are in pain, our life is put on hold. From typing to brushing our teeth, to driving, eating, and using our cell phones, our hands are a very important part of our life.

Don’t let hand pain keep you from the activities you enjoy. If you are experiencing hand pain that is preventing you from enjoying your day-to-day activities, make an appointment to visit our orthopedic specialists in Jacksonville, FL.

Keep reading to learn about the 5 most common causes of hand pain.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you feel numbness or tingling in your thumb, index, middle fingers, or wrist that comes and goes, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a small tube in the wrist that protects the median nerve, one of the main nerves in the hand. This median nerve provides feeling in the thumb, middle, index, and ring fingers, and controls the thumb muscles.

When the carpal tunnel becomes too narrow, pressure is put on the median nerve, which causes pain, numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand.

Carpal tunnel can be hereditary or caused by repeated hand movements, extreme hand and wrist positions, pregnancy, or other health conditions. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome will become worse and can cause permanent damage.

Arthritis of the Hand

The hand is composed of many small bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons, making it prone to arthritis. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints that causes pain and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, commonly affects the hands and causes painful swelling that erodes bones and joints over time. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage protecting the bones wears away causing bones to grind against each other.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is the inflammation of the protective sheaths covering the tendons of the thumb running down to the wrist. Repetitive hand and wrist motions may trigger this condition, as well as lifting a child repeatedly using your thumbs as leverage. This condition causes pain and swelling near the base of your thumb, and makes it difficult to pinch or grasp without pain.

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is when one of your fingers gets stuck in a bent position and releases with a painful “snap” similar to the release of a trigger. Trigger finger can also present itself as finger stiffness, a popping or clicking sound as you move your fingers, pain at the base of the affected finger, or a finger that is locked in a bent position.

Trigger finger occurs when the protective sheath surrounding the finger tendons becomes irritated or inflamed. Trigger finger is more common in women than in men and can be the result of repetitive gripping motions.

Fractures of the Hand, Fingers, and Wrist

Falling and using your hands to catch yourself is one of the most common ways to fracture the bones in your hands, fingers, and wrists. Car accidents, work-related accidents, and sports injuries are also common ways to injure hand bones. Osteoporosis causes weak bones and increases the risk of hand fractures.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of hand pain, don’t delay! Call an orthopedic specialist in Jacksonville, FL, right away to diagnose, treat and prevent future damage to your hands so you can get back to living your life pain-free.

Important Stretches to Avoid Sports Injuries

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How you treat your body every day affects your long-term health. Eating right and exercising can prolong your lifespan and prevent health complications in the future. Nearly everyone knows this to be true. But did you know that making a habit of certain healthy behaviors can prevent injuries today? Orthopedic surgeons, the experts in caring for muscles, bones, and connective tissue that you use to put your body into motion, recommend that you stretch after engaging in any active sports.

So, what do you like to play? Are you an avid amateur player of team sports like basketball or touch football? Are you a fan of outdoor sports, like mountain biking and hiking? What about extreme sports like surfing or skateboarding? Whatever your preferred sport may be, stretching keeps you healthy and prevents injuries.

Here are the top stretches that every orthopedic doctor in Jacksonville, FL, would recommend. These stretches may prevent cramps, torn muscles, and other sports-related injuries.

Standing Forward Fold

A basic stretch for your lower back and hamstrings, which can be overworked during athletic play, start this stretch by standing up straight with your feet together. Bend at the hips and try to touch your calves, ankles, or toes. As with any stretch, don’t force yourself to go past where you feel comfortable. You can actually injure yourself. Hold this stretch for up to a minute.

Runner’s Lunge

Orthopedic surgeons frequently treat knee injuries that could have been prevented with regular leg stretches. Start in a plank or push-up position. Bend one knee and bring your leg forward, placing your foot outside the hand. Straighten your arms and look forward. You should feel the extended leg stretch. Hold for a minute, then switch legs.

Hurdler’s Stretch

A great hip and leg stretch, this is a classic move that many people are taught as children. Sit on the ground with your legs in a “V” position. Bring the foot of one leg in toward your groin, or place the foot flush against the inner the of the other leg. Reach out your hands and bend at the hips toward the extended foot. If you can’t touch your toes, rest on your shin or ankle. Hold this position for a minute, making sure to take deep breaths, then switch legs and stretch the other side.

Child’s Pose

This resting position offers a gentle full-body stretch, while also calming your muscles. It’s the perfect stretch for finishing your exercise. Kneel on the floor and put your toes together so your legs make an open “V” shape. Open your knees wide enough for your torso to fit between them. Lower your torso forward to the ground, then walk your fingers straight out in front of you as far as you can. Drop your head to the floor if possible. You should feel a light stretch in your thighs, back, and shoulders.

You can prevent the need for orthopedic therapy or an orthopedic surgeon’s treatment if you perform these stretches regularly. While stretching releases lactic acid and calms the muscles, it cannot prevent all injuries. However, you should still make stretching after sports a regular practice. For more advice or to discuss any soreness or injury you may have, visit an orthopedic doctor in Jacksonville, FL. 

Learn What Causes Stress Fractures

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Ouch! Lately, after finishing weeknight practices with your summer soccer league, your left shin feels very sore. You’ve tried resting it, icing it, and taking anti-inflammatories, but nothing seems to help, and it seems to be getting worse. You decide it is time to see your doctor. After a trip to the orthopedic center in Jacksonville, FL, you’ve been diagnosed with a stress fracture! Does this mean you have a broken bone? Is your summer ruined?? Don’t panic. Keep reading to find out more.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone.

What Causes a Stress Fracture?

Stress fractures, simply put, are caused by overuse. A continuous, repetitive motion such as running long distances or jumping up and down without proper rest can cause tiny cracks to form in your bones. Starting a new exercise and doing too much too soon is a recipe for a stress fracture. When bones are overworked and don’t have sufficient time to recovery, a fracture can form. A stress fracture can also be caused by everyday activities in the bones of people who have osteoporosis.

Where Do Stress Fractures Most Commonly Occur?

Stress fractures most commonly occur in the bones of the legs and feet. These bones bear most of the weight of the body and are more susceptible to stress fractures.

Who Is at Risk for a Stress Fracture?

Athletes who run long distances are particularly at risk, including soccer players, long-distance runners, basketball players, and track and field athletes. This is due to the repeated pounding running has on leg bones and muscles. Military personnel who carry heavy packs over long distances are also susceptible, along with backpackers and hunters hiking with heavy packs. But, anyone can develop a stress fracture, especially if you start a new exercise program and try to do too much too quickly.

What Are the Symptoms of a Stress Fracture?

Pain is the first clue you might have a stress fracture. Usually mild at first, stress fractures become increasingly more painful as they progress and are left untreated. The affected bone feels tender to the touch, but the pain eases after a period of rest. Swelling can also occur around the affected area.

How Are Stress Fractures Diagnosed?

Your orthopedic in Jacksonville, FL, will first try to use an X-ray to diagnose your stress fracture. Stress fractures often don’t show up in X-rays during the first few weeks of the injury, and your doctor may require a bone scan or MRI to see the fracture.

How Long Does It Take to Heal from a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture usually requires 6 to 8 weeks to heal. This means you need to limit your activities and let the injured bone heal. Try not to put any weight on your injury while it is healing. You can use a walking boot or crutches to speed up the healing process.

How Can I Prevent Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures can be prevented by wearing the proper footwear for your activity or sport. When starting a new exercise program, start off slowly and never do too much too soon. Let your body rest adequately after exercise, and never push through any pain. Keep your bones strong and make sure your diet includes calcium and vitamin D.

Poor Posture with Sitting: Negative Effects and Ways to Improve

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Are you experiencing neck or back pain from a long day of sitting? Poor posture can have harmful effects on patient health. Understand more about the impact of poor posture when sitting and what to do about it today.

The Problem with Poor Posture from Sitting

It may not be obvious to patients that poor posture can have a negative impact on the body. Poor seated posture is a common issue among Americans. The head and shoulders slump, depressing the chest and reducing room in important internal cavities. Poor seated posture can result in:

  • Back pain;
  • Interference with digestion and constipation;
  • Heartburn;
  • Decrease in lung capacity;
  • Migraine headaches and dental issues; and
  • Changes in testosterone and cortisol hormone levels.

Over time, it can be harder to correct poor posture and patients may experience a loss of mobility when using certain joints.

Ways to Address Poor Posture

Patients may want to look into ways to prevent and correct poor posture when seated. Those that sit often may want to improve their ergonomics when sitting at a desk or table. This may help to keep the spine is proper alignment. Taking a break to walk or stretch every half hour may help reduce the pressure on the body and help patients return to a better seated posture. Ergonomic props, such as lumbar back supports, and the correct positioning of computer screens may help lessen the tendency toward poor seated posture.

Importance of Spine Care and Good Posture

Patients rely upon the spine for many important functions, making spine care and proper posture important for optimal health. Patients can learn more about proper posture, how to improve their spinal health and rehabilitate from spinal injuries from the 13 orthopedic specialists at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists in Northeast Florida.

Pain Management for Orthopedic Patients: What You Need to Know

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One of the most important things to understand about the pain you may be experiencing after orthopedic surgery is that this doesn’t necessarily mean there is anything wrong. In truth, postoperative pain is a normal part of the body’s own healing process – but at the same time, this doesn’t mean that you will be forced to grin and bear it.

In fact, there are a wide range of pain management options available to orthopedic patients that are certainly worth exploring with your primary care specialist.

The Advantages of Regional Anesthesia

One of the most common pain management options for orthopedic patients involves the careful use of regional anesthesia. This typically involves a conduction block at the site of your surgery, or anywhere along the path between the surgical site and your spinal cord. There are a number of recent examples in particular that suggest the injection of anesthetic into joint spaces can dramatically reduce the amount of postoperative pain that a patient may be feeling. This is an option that is definitely worth discussing with your orthopedic surgeon before your procedure.

Get Your Expectations in Order

Additionally, it is critical that you understand as much about the pain management process as possible in order to adequately set your expectations for the road ahead. By far, the first few days after your surgery are going to be the worst – but take comfort in knowing that the pain will improve on a daily basis. Your body needs time to heal and you need to do whatever you can to support that. This is why the experts at The Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons agree that oftentimes the best pain reliever you have access to is peace of mind.

If you’d like to find out more information about the various treatment options available to Jacksonville orthopedic patients with acute pain, or if you’d just like to get answers to any other important questions you may have, please don’t delay – contact the Board Certified physicians at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today.

Yoga and Mindfulness Coupled with Orthopedics for Pain

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Working with the breath and meditation may be useful for a variety of patient experiencing chronic pain and more. Yoga and mindfulness are now seen as useful therapies that may enhance physical therapy sessions. Understand more about how yoga and mindfulness may be incorporated into a treatment program.

Learn More About Yoga and Mindfulness

Mindfulness strategies are become more prevalent and incorporated into physical therapy sessions. Yoga and mindfulness can serve to complement more traditional exercises and may offer positive results for patients. People experiencing chronic pain can use yoga and meditation in order to work with mental and emotional components to pain as they work with musculoskeletal imbalances. Yoga and mindfulness interventions have been used with patient populations including neurology, orthopedics, pediatrics, traumatic brain injury, acute care and chronic pain. Patients generally experience a parasympathetic relaxation response with such practices and therapists can then work on neuromuscular re-education once the body and mind are in a calm and relaxed state. In some cases, patients may use yoga and meditation to manage various aspects of their condition, in addition to lifestyle and dietary changes.

Gentle Treatment Options for Chronic Pain

Personal preferences vary. However, many patients appreciate the use of alternative forms of therapy. Yoga and mindfulness can serve to improve the quality of life for many patients experiencing chronic pain or requiring acute care. These forms of therapy are safe for adults and children and are some of the non-invasive therapies that may be suggested for pain management and rehabilitation.

Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, with 13 board certified Jacksonville orthopedic physicians, offers a range of treatment options to patients at their six locations. Contact an associate at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to learn more about gentle and effective therapies to assist those requiring orthopedic care today.

Tips on Building Good Bones

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Bone health is important for your body’s structural integrity, as well as a variety of internal functions. When you think of having good bones, you may immediately think of your legs and arms. While it’s very important to keep these strong, there are other bones that are equally vital for strength and vitality, including your backbone, clavicle, phalanx (the bones that make up the fingers and toes), and even your jawbones. When you have a qualified orthopedic specialist to help improve bones that need rehabilitation, that’s a boost. But in the meantime, there are many things you can do to ensure that you are building good bones.

 

Opt for Impact Exercise

Bone health can also be improved through impact activities, like jogging, riding bikes, trampoline work and jumping rope. Before embarking on an impact exercise routine, consult with your orthopedic specialist to find out your existing bone health status.

Get Plenty of Vitamin D

Vitamin D improves the body’s ability to make calcium, a building block for good bones. Unfortunately, many people don’t get adequate supplies of Vitamin D. In climates with less sun, this is an especially common phenomenon. However, even people who live in sunny climates like Florida and Georgia may not get enough Vitamin D from the sun. They may spend most of their time indoors in air conditioning to escape hot temperatures.

Have your Vitamin D levels checked by your orthopedic specialist. If necessary, you can get extra Vitamin D from supplements, which may vastly improve your overall bone health.

Eat Plenty of Foods With Calcium

The other big part of the equation for optimal bone health is calcium. Adults over 50 years of age require at least 1,000 mg. of calcium daily. If you don’t feel you are getting enough calcium, your orthopedic specialist can check your levels. Calcium supplements are available in stores, but the best source for calcium comes from natural foods like eggs, cheese and milk.

The great news is that bone health can be improved with Vitamin D, calcium and proper exercise. To receive a personalized treatment plan, contact the experts at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today.

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