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Recently, Major League Baseball revealed plans to put a ban on home plate collisions. According to the results of recent research, banning these collisions may help protect players from serious injuries, some of which require orthopedic surgery.

About the Study

The study was published by two researchers from Wake Forest University in the International Journal of Sports Medicine. This study compared the number of injuries per play for different types of plays. The researchers discovered that an average of seven injuries occurred for every 1,000 tag outs on home plate. For plays involving throws from the outfield to second or third base, the average number of injuries was only 1.5 per 1,000 plays.
Based on this data, researchers determined that plays at home plate raised the risk of injury by more than four times. In these incidents, injuries were slightly more likely for runners than catchers. In all types of plays, the typical injuries sustained were similar in severity. However, the type of injury sustained differed by location. For outfield throws, the most common injury was a fracture. For double play attempts and plays at home plate, dislocations and sprains were most common.

Dangers of Home Plate Collisions

Home plate collisions are more dangerous than other baseball injuries for several reasons. In most cases, these collisions occur with one highly-motivated individual running at full speed toward home plate. This runner collides with a catcher who is fully outfitted in protective armor. This combination creates the ideal circumstances for injuries to occur.

How the Ban Will Help

The proposed ban would require the catcher to stay out of the baseline and touch the runner only with the ball in his glove. If this ban is enacted, it could help to prevent some injuries during baseball games.

Even with the ban in place, injuries are still likely to occur. If you have suffered an injury while playing baseball, getting the right treatment is essential. Please contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to make an appointment today.

A Study on Banning Home Plate Collisions Suggests Less Othopedic Injury

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Recently, Major League Baseball revealed plans to put a ban on home plate collisions. According to the results of recent research, banning these collisions may help protect players from serious injuries, some of which require orthopedic surgery.

About the Study

The study was published by two researchers from Wake Forest University in the International Journal of Sports Medicine. This study compared the number of injuries per play for different types of plays. The researchers discovered that an average of seven injuries occurred for every 1,000 tag outs on home plate. For plays involving throws from the outfield to second or third base, the average number of injuries was only 1.5 per 1,000 plays.
Based on this data, researchers determined that plays at home plate raised the risk of injury by more than four times. In these incidents, injuries were slightly more likely for runners than catchers. In all types of plays, the typical injuries sustained were similar in severity. However, the type of injury sustained differed by location. For outfield throws, the most common injury was a fracture. For double play attempts and plays at home plate, dislocations and sprains were most common.

Dangers of Home Plate Collisions

Home plate collisions are more dangerous than other baseball injuries for several reasons. In most cases, these collisions occur with one highly-motivated individual running at full speed toward home plate. This runner collides with a catcher who is fully outfitted in protective armor. This combination creates the ideal circumstances for injuries to occur.

How the Ban Will Help

The proposed ban would require the catcher to stay out of the baseline and touch the runner only with the ball in his glove. If this ban is enacted, it could help to prevent some injuries during baseball games.

Even with the ban in place, injuries are still likely to occur. If you have suffered an injury while playing baseball, getting the right treatment is essential. Please contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to make an appointment today.

Is Tennis Elbow An Occupational Risk?

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Recent research shows that certain manual tasks commonly performed on the job may be increasing your risk of tennis elbow, a painful condition that may require surgery. In light of this evidence, it is important for employers and employees to take steps to protect themselves from this condition.

About Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as “lateral epicondylitis,” is a disorder that develops in the elbow and causes joint pain. It occurs when the tendons in your elbow sustain damage, usually from repetitive motions that put stress on these tendons over time.

About the Research

The research study in question focused on five specific studies from the United States and France. Through meta-analysis, researchers concluded that there was a significant, positive association between exposure to repetitive activities involving the elbow and/or wrist and the development of tennis elbow. The more an individual was exposed to this activity, the more likely they were to develop this condition.

What Does It Mean for Workers?

This meta-analysis has important implications for workers and employers alike. People who spend their workdays performing repetitive motions with their wrists and/or elbows should be aware of their risk of developing tennis elbow. In addition, people who have already developed tennis elbow should make an effort to reduce or eliminate repetitive motions that affect this part of their body.

Based on the evidence found in this study, employers who require employees to engage in repetitive motions involving the wrist and elbow should also consider changing their protocols and/or providing supportive services to help prevent the development of tennis elbow among their employees. Furthermore, employers should be prepared to make adjustments and adaptations for workers who are already affected by this condition and need to prevent further damage.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of tennis elbow, you need to seek treatment to prevent the condition from getting worse. Please contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today to make an appointment.

Rise in Knee Osteoarthritis

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According to new research, the incidence of knee osteoarthritis has doubled over the last 50 years. Based on this information, experts have determined that this condition, which often leads to knee replacement, may be more preventable than once thought.

Research

During this study, researchers examined thousands of skeletons from different periods looking for signs of knee osteoarthritis. They found signs of advanced knee osteoarthritis in approximately 6 percent of skeletons from the pre-industrial period and 18 percent of skeletons from the post-industrial period. Regression analysis showed that the increase could not be blamed on obesity or aging.

Prior to the completion of this research, the medical community believed that osteoarthritis in the knee was becoming more common primarily because of increases in obesity rates, as well as the lengthening of the human lifespan. However, this research determined that the increase in the incidence of knee osteoarthritis could not be explained by these two issues alone. It was also believed that osteoarthritis was unavoidable for many patients, but this evidence indicates that patients may be able to reduce their risk of this condition by changing certain lifestyle factors.

What Does It Mean?

Researchers maintain that aging and obesity still play a significant role in the development of knee arthritis. As an individual ages, the knee joint begins to deteriorate. In addition, because the knee is a weight-bearing joint, being overweight or obese puts considerable strain on the knee. However, other factors are clearly contributing to the condition as well. Some possibilities include a lack of physical activity, inflammation and injuries to the knee.

Further research will be required to determine the exact causes of the increase in knee arthritis. However, in order to reduce the chances of developing osteoarthritis of the knee in the meantime, people are encouraged to maintain a healthy weight, be as active as possible and avoid injuring the knee.

If you have already developed knee osteoarthritis or other knee conditions, you may need treatment. Please contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today to learn more.

Smokers Face Higher Risk for Revision after Knee Replacement

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Following a total knee replacement procedure, one of the most significant risks patients face is the need for a revision procedure. Recent studies indicate that one of the most significant risk factors for revision is smoking. For this reason, patients undergoing knee replacement surgery should quit smoking immediately.

About the Study

The study in question covered a total of 436 patients who had undergone total knee replacement surgery. Researchers followed the patients over a period of 13 years and recorded any revisions required in order to identify risk factors. The study determined that, smoking increased the risk of needing a revision by 300 percent.

Among the revisions that did occur, the most common situations leading to a revision were infection, aseptic loosening, stiffness or instability. The study did not investigate the mechanism by which smoking leads to a higher risk of revision. Further research will be necessary to investigate the connection in more depth.

What It Means for Patients

Based on this information, it seems plausible that smoking increases the risk of needing a revision following total knee replacement. For this reason, smokers who know they need a knee replacement should quit smoking as soon as possible. Quitting smoking is also recommended for patients who have already had a knee replacement procedure and hope to limit their chances of eventually needing a revision.

In addition to quitting smoking, there are other steps patients can take to reduce their risk of needing a revision after total knee replacement surgery, such as choosing the right surgeon and following his or her instructions carefully. To learn more about total knee replacement surgery, please contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today.

Study Reveals Risk Factor for Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Researchers at the University of Nebraska have recently uncovered a link between menopause and a larger decline in physical functionality in women who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

What the Study Uncovered Regarding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Menopause

In the study published in Rheumatology, University of Nebraska scientists surveyed 8,189 women who had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis prior to entering menopause. The researchers’ aim was to discover if there is a link between menopause and decline in function in women with rheumatoid arthritis.

After controlling for other variables in the study participants’ health backgrounds that could also contribute to functional decline, the University of Nebraska researchers found that the premenopausal women in the study experienced markedly less decline in physical function as compared to postmenopausal women. Furthermore, the study revealed that women who had used hormone replacement therapy, been pregnant and had longer reproductive lives generally experienced less decline in function.

Other Hormonal Factors Can Influence Functional Decline in Those with Rheumatoid Arthritis

The findings of the University of Nebraska study support past studies that have shown that hormonal and reproductive events can influence functional decline in women with rheumatoid arthritis. For example, past research has revealed that pregnancy reduces the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, but the postpartum period following pregnancy is associated with increased development of the disease and decline in function.

Researchers were careful to note that the exact reasons why menopause leads to greater loss of physical function in women with rheumatoid arthritis were not made clear by their study, and the lead scientist indicated that further research is necessary to understand the best ways to maintain function following menopause for women with rheumatoid arthritis.

If you are experiencing a decline in your physical function and have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, the orthopedic doctors at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists may be able to help. Our regenerative medicine practice includes therapies such as stem cell injections that can help restore function.

The Difference Between Aerobic and Anaerobic Training for Sports

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There are two different types of exercise that people can do, whether most of them realize it or not. The two different types of exercise are aerobic and anaerobic. These two types of exercise serve two different purposes and can help people achieve different goals as well.

What is Aerobic Exercise?

Aerobic exercise is what is commonly referred to as cardio. To break that down further, it is exercise that requires the body to use oxygenated blood to work the lung muscles and other muscles in the body. It is something that stimulated the breathing and heart rate. Some examples of aerobic exercises include running, hiking, dancing, kickboxing, swimming, and even using cardio machines. However, any aerobic activity can turn into an anaerobic activity if it is performed at too high of a level or intensity. Aerobic exercise is something that can improve the physical health of a person as well as emotional health. Additionally, it can help prevent or reduce the chance of getting some cancers, diabetes, and even cardiovascular disease.

What is Anaerobic Exercise?

Anaerobic exercise is characterized by exercising without oxygen. It is a type of exercise that makes a person become quickly out of breath. It is a high intensity type of workout where the result is that the body is needing more oxygen than there is available in the body. One of the major differences between this type of exercise and aerobic exercise is that this one relies on the energy sources that are stored in the muscles of the body instead of on the oxygen in the air. Some examples of this type of exercise include sprinting and even lifting heavy weights. The benefit of this type of exercise is that it can be used to increase the strength of the body.

Contact An Orthopedic Today

If you do get injured, especially with an injury to your joints, muscles, or bones, it is important to get the right help to get you back to your training regimen as soon as possible. Contact us today to make an appointment with our orthopedic.

What’s the Difference Between a Slipped Disc and a Herniated Disc?

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The terms “slipped disc” and “herniated disc” are often used interchangeably. This leaves some patients feeling confused. Understanding these terms and what they mean can help you understand your spine and your spine health. If you’re suffering from either of these conditions, knowing how they can affect your spine health can also help you get the treatment you need to heal.

What are Spinal Discs?

The discs in your spine provide cushion between the vertebrae, helping your spine to maintain flexibility. Each disc is comprised of hard cartilage on the outside and a softer center on the inside.

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc occurs when the outer edges of the disc begin to crack, causing the soft interior to bulge out. This herniation can cause the disc to protrude from the tough casing that surrounds the spine, leading to pain, numbness and tingling.

What does it mean if a spinal disc has slipped?

Technically, spinal discs can’t slip out of place. However, this term can be used to describe a herniated disc, and is sometimes used to describe a bulging disc.

What is a bulging disc?

As people age, spinal discs start to stiffen and bulge from the spinal column. A bulging disc is one that has flattened slightly, so that the edges of the disc protrude farther than it should. A bulging disc can be painful, but is typically not as painful as a herniated disc. Patients suffering from a bulging disc may also have trouble walking, experience a feeling of heaviness in the legs and may feel tingling.

What can you do if you’re suffering from a herniated or bulging disc?

If you’re suffering from either of these conditions, work with a spine specialist to get treatment. At Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, our orthopedic surgeons provide natural treatment to patients suffering from conditions like a slipped disc. To get started, contact your spine specialist today at (904) 634-0640.

Maintaining a Healthy Spine Through Good Foods

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Maintaining a healthy spine can prevent back pain and uncomfortable chronic conditions. One of the ways that you can maintain a healthy spine is by eating the right foods. Knowing which foods to eat can help you keep up a healthy diet.

Eat Foods High in Calcium

Calcium is one of the most well-known minerals to positively affect bone health. Calcium is best obtained through natural sources, like through the foods you eat. Consuming calcium-rich foods can help prevent osteoporosis and can also help strengthen the bones in the back. For older adults, 1,000 mg of calcium is enough to help keep the back healthy. There are many foods that contain calcium, including:

  • Yogurt
  • Milk
  • Cheese
  • Figs
  • Green beans
  • Carrots
  • Broccoli
  • Almonds

Some adults take in calcium through supplements and vitamins, but taking in calcium through food sources is better.

Lose Weight Through Healthy Foods

Excess weight can put a lot of pressure on the vertebrae, which can eventually lead to back pain and disc degeneration. To control weight gain and maintain a healthy BMI, eat a balanced diet of healthy foods, including:

  • Lean meat (6 ounces daily)
  • Fish (every day or every other day)
  • Olive oil (daily)
  • Nuts (daily)
  • Raw or steamed vegetables (daily)

Limit your intake of trans fats, empty calories, candy, cookies and carbohydrates.

Avoid Nightshade Plants

Nightshade plants (tomatoes and eggplant, for example) are known to contribute to inflammation, which can lead to an increase in pain and discomfort. To avoid problems, cut back your consumption of nightshade plants, then watch to see if your pain goes away. If reducing or eliminating nightshade plants from your diet does nothing to help your pain, then nightshades may not be the source of your problem.

Work With Your Orthopedic Specialists

If you’re struggling to maintain spine health and would like to improve your spine strength and flexibility, contact your orthopedic surgeons at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists. We help patients manage their pain and avoid back discomfort. Contact us today at (904) 634-0640.

The Most Popular Treatment Option for Scoliosis

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If you have scoliosis, you’re probably searching for which treatment option is right for you. Should you opt for surgery? Or perhaps there’s an alternative to surgery you should consider?

What Are the Treatment Options for Scoliosis?

The treatment options available for your scoliosis will depend on the severity of the curve in your spine, as well as your age, health and physical condition. However, if your spine is skeletally mature and the curve is more than 45 degrees, generally, surgery is your only option.

Spinal fusion is the most commonly recommended type of surgery for severe scoliosis. With this surgery, it’s possible you could be back to enjoying all your normal daily activities after a few short months. Your orthopedic surgeon will be able to give you more specific details based on your particular situation.

Who Should I Contact If I Need a Spine Specialist?

If you have or suspect you have, scoliosis and would like more information about your options, please Contact Us today. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists has 14 board-certified orthopedic physicians on staff and we offer cutting-edge care in all six of our state-of-the-art Jacksonville, Florida locations.

The Pros and Cons of Scoliosis Surgery

When you have severe scoliosis, and your orthopedic surgeon has scheduled surgery, you might be wondering what the pros and cons of such a surgery might be.

Pros of Scoliosis Surgery:

  • It will stop your spinal curve from getting worse.
  • It will reduce your rib’s prominence and reduce any spinal deformities that are present.

Cons of Scoliosis Surgery:

  • Complications, as with any surgery, could occur. Such issues could include infection, damage to the nerves, loss of blood and/or bowel and bladder problems.
  • You could also experience loss of spinal balance and there’s a possibility that your bones won’t heal or fuse properly.

Any Non-Operative Options for Treating Scoliosis?

There is only one non-operative option for treating scoliosis and that is bracing. If your spine has a curve of 25 to 40 degrees, and your body is still growing, the spine specialist will probably recommend you wear a brace to see if that will keep your scoliosis from getting worse while your body continues to grow.

Does Calcium Intake Help Bone Health?

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You have probably heard more than once in your life that digesting calcium is good for bone health. Making sure that you have calcium in your diet is essential to keeping your bones strong and healthy. Even though you have heard it for most or all of your life, it is still true.

So What is Calcium?

Calcium is a mineral and it is the most important mineral when it comes to your bone health. In the body, it is found mostly in bones and in teeth. In fact, it is the most abundant mineral that is found in the body. It is recommended that adults consume three servings every day of calcium-rich foods. 

How Does Calcium Help Our Bones?

If calcium is already in our body, why do we need to continue to consume it? Essentially, it is what keeps our bones strong and the calcium that is currently in your body will not stay there forever. In fact, our bodies are always removing small amounts of calcium from our bones in the body. If we do not continue to consume calcium-rich foods, then that calcium cannot be replaced as part of the bone remodeling process. Your bones will become weaker and will be more prone to breaking if the calcium that is removed is not replaced.

What Are Some Calcium-Rich Foods?

If you are looking to add some calcium into your diet, you need to know what to eat. Milk is the most popular form of calcium but it is not the only food that you can consume in order to add it to your diet. Other options include kale, yogurt, broccoli, sardines, cheese, bok choy, watercress and more.

Contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists

You should try out a few different things to find the right addition to your diet. If you need some help finding the right foods or would like to have your bones checked out, be sure to contact us today.

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