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Former pro sports doctor joins Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to treat residents in Northeast Florida

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Dr. David Doward to help deliver spine and sports medicine care

JACKSONVILLE, June 9, 2025 – Southeast Orthopedic Specialists (SOS) is excited to welcome Dr. David Doward to its expanding team of musculoskeletal (MSK) experts. Dr. David Doward is a board-certified physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and fellowship trained in Interventional Spine and Sports Medicine. Dr. Doward specializes in comprehensive pain management treatments and is recognized for his patient-centered, non-surgical approach to musculoskeletal (MSK) care, helping individuals regain mobility and get back to activities they love.

Dr. Doward earned his medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College following undergraduate and premedical studies at Lafayette College and Columbia University. He completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Stanford University Hospitals & Clinics and pursued advanced fellowship training in Interventional Spine and Sports Medicine at the prestigious Hospital for Special Surgery.

Throughout his career, Dr. Doward has authored nine peer-reviewed publications, contributed to six research studies, and served as a team physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Jacksonville Sharks. He has also provided medical coverage for elite international tennis events, including the Davis Cup and Fed Cup.

Known for his thoughtful clinical insight, hands-on care, and collaborative treatment planning, Dr. Doward partners closely with patients and referring providers to craft individualized care plans that align with each patient’s goals and lifestyle.

“We are so excited to have Dr. Doward on our team and look forward to the positive impact his care and expertise will bring to our patients and the Northeast Florida community,” said Donnie Romine, CEO of Southeast Orthopedic Specialists. “His impressive academic background, experience treating elite athletes, and dedication to delivering personalized, high-quality care makes him an exceptional addition to the SOS family as we continue to expand access to exceptional orthopedic and spine care in the region.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Doward enjoys traveling, playing tennis, and spending quality time with his family.

With the addition of Dr. Doward, Southeast Orthopedic Specialists continues to strengthen its mission of delivering comprehensive, patient-centered musculoskeletal care to communities across Northeast Florida. At SOS, patients can count on a seamless experience — from initial evaluation and non-surgical treatment to surgery and recovery — all managed by a trusted team under one roof.

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About Southeast Orthopedic Specialists 

Established in 2001, Southeast Orthopedic Specialists has grown into the regional leader in musculoskeletal care. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists was founded on the principle of providing high-quality, comprehensive care in the Northeast Florida region. The entire spectrum of musculoskeletal healthcare services is provided to patients including orthopedic surgery, spine care, physical medicine and rehabilitation, pain management, chiropractic and podiatry. Services including physical therapy, regenerative medicine, advanced imaging, durable medical equipment and musculoskeletal urgent care are offered in multiple locations throughout the region. Physicians at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists are leading experts in their field with decades of experience, including the completion of multiple fellowships and groundbreaking research. Visit www.se-ortho.com to learn more.

 

About Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)  

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) is the national leader of integrated musculoskeletal value-based health outcomes management, practice management and health system service line management. This includes comprehensive expertise across all MSK specialties, including orthopedics, spine, neurosurgery, hand, pain management, rehabilitation and neurology. HOPCo’s integrated care, analytics and facilities development and management platforms have proven to increase the quality of patient care while reliably reducing the total cost of care across the care continuum for practices, health systems and payors alike. HOPCo’s affiliated payors, practices and health systems successfully participate in highly efficient value-based contracting (bundled payments, chronic episodes of care initiatives, population health programs and other advanced risk-based arrangements) utilizing HOPCo’s proprietary platforms, IT solutions, integrated analytics and evidence-based comprehensive care pathways. Visit https://hopco.com to learn more.

 

Media Contact:

Annebeth Ahrenholz

Communications Specialist

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)

Annebeth.Ahrenholz@hopco.com

Southeast Orthopedic Specialists welcomes two renowned surgeons to its team

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Dr. Jennifer Madden and Dr. Richard Lance Snyder join Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to enhance hand, upper extremity and sports medicine care  

JACKSONVILLE  (April 2, 2025) – Two orthopedic surgeons from Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute, Dr. Jennifer Madden and Dr. Richard Lance Snyder, have recently joined Southeast Orthopedic Specialists (SOS). With their combined expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery, as well as sports medicine, they bring a wealth of experience to the SOS team. 

Dr. Madden headshot

Dr. Madden is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in Hand & Microvascular Surgery and Upper Extremity Reconstruction. Dr. Madden earned her medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine, where she received several prestigious honors, including the Haffenreffer House Staff Recognition Award, the AMWA Outstanding Women in Medicine Award and the Diane Radkowski Award. She completed fellowships at the Mayo Clinic and Brown University, specializing in trauma and hand surgery.  

Dr. Madden’s work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and presented at prestigious conferences, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Passionate about advancing orthopedic care, she is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of surgeons. Her commitment to education and innovation has established her as a key figure in the field, where she continues to make a significant impact on patient outcomes. 

Dr. Snyder HeadshotDr. Snyder is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine with over 25 years of experience. He earned his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma and completed residency at the University of Kansas. Dr. Snyder further advanced his expertise through a shoulder and sports medicine fellowship at the University of Colorado and a spine surgery fellowship at the University of Southern California. 

Recognized as the 2022 Northeast Florida Sports Physician of the Year, Dr. Snyder has a long history of serving as the team doctor for several professional sports teams, including the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, University of Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas City Explorers and Kansas City Royals. He has also worked with a variety of MLB teams and players, earning him a well-deserved reputation in sports medicine. 

Dr. Snyder is a former high school and college All-American athlete and played football at the University of Kansas. His personal experience as an athlete has deepened his passion for treating shoulder and elbow injuries.  

“We are thrilled to welcome both Dr. Madden and Dr. Snyder to our practice,” said Donnie Romine, CEO of Southeast Orthopedic Specialists. “Their extensive backgrounds, dedication to patient care and passion for advancing orthopedic medicine make them invaluable additions to our team. We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our patients’ outcomes.” 

With the addition of Dr. Madden and Dr. Snyder, Southeast Orthopedic Specialists continues its commitment to providing exceptional orthopedic care to patients, combining cutting-edge treatment with compassionate service. 

About Southeast Orthopedic Specialists  
Established in 2001, Southeast Orthopedic Specialists has grown into the regional leader in musculoskeletal care. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists was founded on the principle of providing high-quality, comprehensive care in the Northeast Florida region. The entire spectrum of musculoskeletal healthcare services is provided to patients including orthopedic surgery, spine care, physical medicine and rehabilitation, pain management, chiropractic and podiatry. Services including physical therapy, regenerative medicine, advanced imaging, durable medical equipment and musculoskeletal urgent care are offered in multiple locations throughout the region. Physicians at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists are leading experts in their field with decades of experience, including the completion of multiple fellowships and groundbreaking research. Visit www.se-ortho.com to learn more.  

About Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)   
Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) is the national leader of integrated musculoskeletal value-based health outcomes management, practice management and health system service line management. This includes comprehensive expertise across all MSK specialties, including orthopedics, spine, neurosurgery, hand, pain management, rehabilitation and neurology. HOPCo’s integrated care, analytics and facilities development and management platforms have proven to increase the quality of patient care while reliably reducing the total cost of care across the care continuum for practices, health systems and payors alike. HOPCo’s affiliated payors, practices and health systems successfully participate in highly efficient value-based contracting (bundled payments, chronic episodes of care initiatives, population health programs and other advanced risk-based arrangements) utilizing HOPCo’s proprietary platforms, IT solutions, integrated analytics and evidence-based comprehensive care pathways. Visit https://hopco.com to learn more.   

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Media Contact: 
Annebeth Ahrenholz 
Communications Specialist 
Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) 
623.241.8779 
Annebeth.Ahrenholz@hopco.com 

Southeast Orthopedic Specialists Direct clinic welcomes new physician assistant to enhance patient care

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Nina Bracy Headshot

Jacksonville, FL – March 17, 2025 – Southeast Orthopedic Specialists (SOS) is pleased to announce the addition of Juanita (Nina) Bracy, PA-C, to its North St. Johns Direct clinic located at 3055 County Road 210 West. With a diverse background in family and sports medicine, Bracy specializes in orthopedic treatment for patients with acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. 

Nina Bracy Headshot

A dedicated and compassionate healthcare professional, Bracy brings over 20 years of experience to her role. She holds a master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA and a Master of Education in Kinesiology from the University of Virginia. Early in her career, she worked as an athletic trainer at Stanford University, followed by a position as a rehabilitation aide at the University of California San Francisco Physical Therapy. 

Most recently, Bracy served as a family medicine physician assistant at Metroplex Medical Center in Texas and as a compensation and pension examiner at Clay Consulting in Florida, where she worked closely with U.S. military veterans. 

“I’m excited to join the Southeast Orthopedic Specialists team and to serve the St. Johns community,” said Bracy. “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about helping others—whether treating chronic conditions, supporting athletes or working with veterans. Every patient is unique, and I strive to provide compassionate, individualized care that empowers them to live healthier, more active lives. It’s truly an honor to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who trust us with their care.” 

“We are committed to providing the highest level of care to those we serve,” said Donnie Romine, CEO of Southeast Orthopedic Specialists. “Nina’s dedication to patient care, combined with her extensive training in both sports medicine and orthopedics make her an invaluable asset as we continue to provide exceptional service at our walk-in clinics.” 

About Southeast Orthopedic Specialists Direct Clinics 

Southeast Orthopedic Specialists Direct clinics are walk-in medical centers where patients can be seen for pain or injuries with no appointment necessary. Direct clinics are staffed by orthopedic physicians and Advanced Practice Providers who specialize in providing comprehensive orthopedic services, including diagnosis, treatment, imaging, bracing and casting. In addition, the clinics offer physical/occupational therapy. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists Direct clinics are conveniently located in Jacksonville – Mandarin, North St. Johns and St. Augustine. For more information or to find a location near you, visit https://se-ortho.com/direct/. 

About Southeast Orthopedic Specialists 

Established in 2001, Southeast Orthopedic Specialists has grown into the regional leader in musculoskeletal care. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists was founded on the principle of providing high-quality, comprehensive care in the Northeast Florida region. The entire spectrum of musculoskeletal healthcare services is provided to patients including orthopedic surgery, spine care, physical medicine and rehabilitation, pain management, chiropractic and podiatry. Services including physical therapy, regenerative medicine, advanced imaging, durable medical equipment and musculoskeletal urgent care are offered in multiple locations throughout the region. Physicians at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists are leading experts in their field with decades of experience, including the completion of multiple fellowships and groundbreaking research. Visit www.se-ortho.com to learn more. 

About Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) 

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) is the national leader of integrated musculoskeletal value-based health outcomes management, practice management and health system service line management. This includes comprehensive expertise across all MSK specialties, including orthopedics, spine, neurosurgery, hand, pain management, rehabilitation and neurology. HOPCo’s integrated care, analytics and facilities development and management platforms have proven to increase the quality of patient care while reliably reducing the total cost of care across the care continuum for practices, health systems and payors alike. HOPCo’s affiliated payors, practices and health systems successfully participate in highly efficient value-based contracting (bundled payments, chronic episodes of care initiatives, population health programs and other advanced risk-based arrangements) utilizing HOPCo’s proprietary platforms, IT solutions, integrated analytics and evidence-based comprehensive care pathways. Visit https://hopco.com to learn more. 

Understanding Dead Arm Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

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Sports, tennis and arm pain on court after training, game or match outdoors. Healthcare, tennis player and injured black man or athlete with muscle pain or inflammation after exercise or workout

Dead Arm Syndrome is a perplexing condition that affects individuals engaged in repetitive shoulder movements causing sudden, acute pain that temporarily weakens or impairs the arm.

It often creeps up on athletes, especially baseball pitchers, who demand the utmost from their shoulders, only to find themselves grappling with sharp discomfort and a concerning loss of function.

In order to use your arm with minimal to no pain, it involves identifying the causes and symptoms, and seeking interventions that can alleviate discomfort and restore function.

A crucial step in this journey is having an informed conversation with a doctor or specialist with expertise in sports injuries.

Sports, tennis and arm pain on court after training, game or match outdoors. Healthcare, tennis player and injured black man or athlete with muscle pain or inflammation after exercise or workout

Introduction to Dead Arm Syndrome

Dead arm syndrome is a condition that can cause sudden, sharp arm pain. Athletes – such as football players or baseball players – may notice it because they can no longer throw.

An effective approach to treating dead arm syndrome not only relieves the immediate discomfort but also paves the way for ongoing health and optimal athletic performance.

Definition and Overview

Imagine if you were once able to use your throwing arm without pain and suddenly you can’t throw because your limb feels like it’s not your own. This confusing sensation is often experienced by those with dead arm syndrome, where the arm’s function is impaired without apparent reason, leading to discomfort and a hindered ability to perform certain physical activities.

Consulting with a physician upon noticing these symptoms is crucial, as dead arm syndrome may stem from a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from nerve compression, tissue inflammation or injury. Accurate diagnosis is essential, and a specialist’s expertise can pinpoint the root cause and provide an effective treatment plan.

Importance in Orthopedics

Within orthopedics, dead arm syndrome garners significant attention due to its potential to sideline athletes. It’s important to identify the issues so that individuals can reengage with their sports swiftly and, most importantly, safely.

A good understanding of dead arm syndrome allows doctors to deliver care that extends beyond managing symptoms. Treatments may include preventative strategies, an understanding of sports biomechanics, and tailored treatments, all working collaboratively to rehabilitate and fortify the arm against future injury.

Symptoms of Dead Arm Syndrome

Recognizing the symptoms of dead arm syndrome is key in tackling the condition head-on.

  • Pain and weakness:
    • Significant discomfort or pain in the shoulder, especially when throwing, accompanied by noticeable weakness in the upper arm.
  • Numbness and tingling:
    • A sensation of pins and needles or numbness radiating from the shoulder down the arm.
  • Reduced throwing ability:
    • Difficulty throwing with the same force and control as before, often experiencing a significant drop in throwing speed.
  • Shoulder instability:
    • Clicking or popping sounds in the shoulder joint, sometimes accompanied by a feeling of the shoulder partially dislocating.
  • Fatigue in the arm:
    • Feeling of tiredness and exhaustion in the affected arm, especially during repetitive movements.

As you better understand the signs and symptoms of dead arm syndrome, keep in mind that the characteristics of your discomfort and functional impairment offer critical clues in formulating an effective treatment plan.

Conclusion and Takeaways

Arm health and function depend on the timely recognition of symptoms, an accurate diagnosis, and a well-defined treatment plan. Noticing the signs and symptoms early, will help prevent prolonged discomfort and performance setbacks

It’s important you talk with your doctor to understand the underlying causes of your symptoms so that you can get treatment as soon as possible. Staying informed and supported through recovery is going to help with peak arm function and overall musculoskeletal health.

The physicians and specialists at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists are experts in all aspects of orthopedic and spine care. No matter the type of treatment you require, the team at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists is ready to serve you at one of their six locations across Duval, St. Johns and Clay counties. If you find yourself experiencing any type of pain related to an orthopedic or spine condition, call Southeast Orthopedic Specialists at 904.634.0640 or schedule an appointment online

(Photo Credit – Adobe)

 

What is a Torn Rotator Cuff Injury?

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To understand what a rotator cuff injury is, you must first understand the rotator cuff itself. The rotator cuff comprises four muscles and tendons that help stabilize the shoulder while also helping to move the arm. It is a crucial component in being able to lift your arm and reach upward. The rotator cuff is a commonly injured area, with most of the injuries being related to strains, tears or tendinitis.

What causes an injury to the rotator cuff?

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body and is susceptible to everyday wear and tear. A rotator cuff tear is a common injury within the shoulder. The two main causes of a rotator cuff tear are injury and degeneration. Injuries that seem as harmless as falling on an outstretched hand can cause enough damage to tear the tendon. Degenerative tears are the result of the tendon being worn down over time.

What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff injury?

Tears from an injury usually result in immense sudden pain while those that are degenerative recognize a slower onset of pain. We have gathered some of the most common symptoms of an injury to the rotator cuff. It is important to be mindful that a rotator cuff injury can resemble other injuries so a physician can provide you with the most accurate diagnosis.

  • Recurring pain, especially with certain activities or movements
  • Pain while at rest and at night
  • Limited mobility of the arm
  • Weakness when lifting or rotating your arm

Who is at risk for rotator cuff injuries?

Given that rotator cuff injuries are commonly caused by degenerative reasons, they are seen frequently in people over 40 years old. Those who do repetitive lifting or overhead activities are also at risk of injuring their rotator cuff. Athletes, such as tennis players and baseball pitchers, are prime examples given the repetitive movements they perform.

How is a rotator cuff injury diagnosed?

A rotator cuff can be partially or fully torn which can be determined more accurately through an MRI. Ultimately, your physician will determine the best treatment for your specific rotator cuff injury.

How is a rotator cuff injury treated?

Depending on the severity of your injury, it can be treated conservatively with:

  • Limiting overhead activities and allowing your body to rest is the first step in allowing your rotator cuff the chance to heal.
  • Anti-inflammatories – such as ibuprofen or aspirin can be taken to reduce your pain and swelling.
  • Physical Therapy – A Physical Therapist will explore exercises that restore movement and strengthen the shoulder. Improving your flexibility and range of motion are of utmost importance when working with a torn rotator cuff. As the muscles supporting the shoulder are strengthened, your discomfort will subside.
  • Corticosteroid Injections – If your daily activities or sleep are difficult, a steroid injection into the shoulder joint can be beneficial. Cortisone is a very effective anti-inflammatory but is a temporary solution to reducing your shoulder pain. Typically, other methods of pain relief are tried prior to a steroid injection.
  • Rotator Cuff Repair – If non-surgical methods are not effective, your physician might recommend a surgical procedure to repair the torn rotator cuff. During the procedure, the tendon that has been torn is re-attached to the head of the humerus. There are a few options when it comes to repairing rotator cuff injuries and your physician will discuss with you which is best for you.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your shoulder, Dr. Aaron Bates at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists is dedicated to finding the right solution for you.  Schedule your appointment online today!

What Is an Orthopedic Specialist and How Can They Help You?

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If you’re experiencing any kind of joint or back pain, you might be wondering who to turn to. An orthopedic specialist is a medical doctor who focuses on the health of your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. From nagging back pain to a sudden sports injury on the sunny coast of Florida, these specialists can diagnose the root cause of your pain and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to your life. Your path to recovery could involve physical therapy, advanced non-surgical treatments, or surgery.

Physiotherapy patients receive expert care by our specialists at Southeast Orthopedics Specialists.
A Patient at the physiotherapy doing physical exercises with his therapist

For residents of Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and across Northeast Florida, understanding what to expect from an orthopedic visit can be the first step toward relief.

What Does an Orthopedic Specialist Do?

An orthopedic specialist, or orthopedist, is an expert in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal issues. This includes everything from chronic conditions like arthritis to acute injuries such as fractures or ligament tears.

Your first visit will typically involve a thorough evaluation. The specialist will ask detailed questions about your pain, your medical history, and your lifestyle. They may also perform a physical exam and order imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI to get a clear picture of what’s happening inside your body. Common issues treated by orthopedic specialists include:

In a region like Northeast Florida, where an active lifestyle is common, from golfing in Ponte Vedra to surfing in St. Augustine, sports injuries are a frequent reason to see an orthopedic specialist.

A Modern Approach to Orthopedic Treatment

The field of orthopedics has advanced significantly since 2017. While surgery is sometimes necessary, orthopedic specialists will often start with non-surgical treatments to help you heal. Seeing an orthopedist doesn’t automatically mean you’ll need an operation.

Your personalized treatment plan will be based on your specific injury, your health, and your goals. Some of the innovative and effective treatment options available today include:

  • Physical Therapy and Exercise: A cornerstone of recovery, physical therapy involves targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore movement. Many orthopedic practices in the Jacksonville area offer on-site physical therapy for a seamless recovery experience.

  • Advanced Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain. Another option is viscosupplementation, where hyaluronic acid is injected into a joint like the knee to improve lubrication and cushioning.

  • Regenerative Medicine: This cutting-edge field uses your body’s own healing abilities. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell therapy are regenerative treatments that can help repair damaged tissues and may be an alternative to surgery for some conditions.

  • Bracing and Orthotics: Custom devices like braces or shoe inserts can provide support, protect injured areas, and improve alignment to relieve pain.

  • Medication: Your specialist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxers to manage pain and aid in your recovery.

  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: If surgery is the best option, orthopedic surgeons now use advanced, minimally invasive techniques. Procedures like arthroscopy use small incisions and a camera to diagnose and treat joint problems, often leading to faster recovery times.

  • Robotic-Assisted Surgery: For procedures like joint replacements, surgeons may use robotic technology to enhance precision and accuracy, leading to better outcomes for patients.

  • 3D Printing: This technology allows for the creation of custom implants and surgical guides tailored to a patient’s unique anatomy.

Finding Orthopedic Care in Jacksonville and St. Augustine

If you’re looking for expert orthopedic care in Northeast Florida, Southeast Orthopedic Specialists can work with you to find the best course of treatment for your individual needs. With multiple locations, including in Jacksonville and a growing presence in St. Augustine, they offer a comprehensive range of services from diagnostics to rehabilitation. Their team of board-certified physicians covers every orthopedic and spine specialty, utilizing the latest technologies to provide top-quality care.

Do Compression Socks and Sleeves Give You an Advantage in Running?

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When you watch a major race such as the Boston Marathon, you may notice that the gear the elite runners wear differs from the shorts and tank top you throw on for a casual run. In particular, compression socks and calf sleeves have become a popular part of the elite runner look. Adopting these compression garments could give you an advantage in your running training.

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Orthotics: Helpful or Useless?

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Orthotic inserts represented a $400 million industry in the United States in 2014. Some athletes purchase specialized orthotics for specific sports activities while other people wear orthotics in their shoes on a daily basis. The purpose of orthotics is to correct your bone and joint alignment, preventing injury. However, recent research has led to controversy about whether orthotics actually work. (more…)

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