Bone Doctor - Joint Pain MD

Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: Whether you're an athlete or weekend warrior, understanding #AchillesTendon injury treatment options is crucial for optimal recovery. Research continues to challenge traditional beliefs about treatment approaches. While surgical repair has been considered the gold standard, some studies show that non-surgical treatment can be equally effective for many patients when combined with proper rehabilitation: - Surgical treatment shows slightly lower re-rupture rates (3.5% vs 6.2%) - Non-surgical treatment avoids wound complications and infection risks - Both approaches show similar functional outcomes at 1 yr - Early rehabilitation is crucial regardless of treatment choice . Achilles Injury Treatment Factors: - Activity level/athletic demands - Age and overall health - Occupation requirements - Personal preference - Compliance with rehabilitation . Modern rehabilitation protocols include early controlled motion and progressive loading have revolutionized outcomes for both surgical and non-surgical approaches. Studies show that aggressive, early rehabilitation can lead to excellent results regardless of treatment choice.💡 Did you know? The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in your body, but also the most commonly ruptured! Annual incidence is increasing, especially in active adults between 30-50 yrs old. Treatment success depends more on dedicated rehabilitation than the initial treatment choice. Whether you choose surgery or conservative management, commitment to proper rehab is your path to recovery! Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment approach for your specific situation. #achilles @Arthrex #achillesruptured . 👇 SHARE your #TendonInjury experience & insights

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: "Funny Bone" That's No Laughing Matter . Ever hit your "funny bone" and felt that tingling sensation shoot through your arm? That's actually your #ulnarnerve and when it becomes compressed or irritated at the elbow, it can lead to a condition called cubital tunnel syndrome. This common nerve compression disorder affects the ulnar nerve as it passes through a tunnel of tissue behind your elbow's medial epicondyle. When the nerve gets squeezed, it can't properly transmit signals to your hand and fingers. . Key #CubitalTunnel Syndrome Symptoms: - Numbness/tingling in ring + little fingers - Grip strength weakness #NerveCompression - Hand clumsiness - Pain on inside of elbow - Symptoms often worsen when bending your elbow ⚠️ Common Causes: - Prolonged elbow bending (phone use, sleep position) - Leaning on elbows frequently - Prior elbow injuries - Arthritis/inflammation . Treatment typically starts conservatively with Activity modification, Night splinting, Ergonomic adjustments, Anti-inflammatory medications and Nerve gliding exercises. Don't ignore persistent symptoms - early intervention is key! If conservative treatments don't provide relief, surgical options are available to decompress the nerve. Severe cubital syndrome can require surgical intervention - more info on those procedures up soon. #PhysicalTherapy #tinglingfingers #numbnessinhands . 👇 Dealing with finger tingling and numbness? What has made the biggest difference?

Arthroscopic Meniscus Surgery: Precision Through Tiny Windows - Arthroscopic #meniscusrepair surgery is a minimally invasive technique vs. more traditional open knee surgery that can require a 3-4 inch incision. #Arthroscopic meniscus surgery typically involves just 2-3 small incisions (or "portals") around the knee, each measuring only about ¼ to ½ inch in length. Each precisely placed portals serve specific purposes: 𝗔𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗹: Located on the outer side of the knee joint, next to the patellar tendon. This is where the arthroscope—a pencil-thin camera with fiber-optic lighting—enters, giving the surgeon a magnified, high-definition view of the internal structures on a video monitor. #kneesurgery - 𝗔𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗹: On the inner side of the knee, this incision allows the surgeon to insert specialized instruments needed to repair or trim the torn meniscus. These instruments are remarkably precise, allowing for suturing, shaving, or removal of damaged tissue. - 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗹: For complex tears or better surgical access, a third portal may be created. This provides optimal angles for working on difficult-to-reach areas of the meniscus. . During arthroscopic #kneesurgery the joint is filled with sterile saline solution, creating space for the surgeon to work and improving visibility. The entire procedure typically lasts 30-60 minutes, with most patients going home the same day. With advances in surgical technique and instruments, through these tiny portals, surgeons can perform complex repairs that would have previously required major surgery. Recovery is generally faster, with less pain and reduced risk of infection compared to open surgery. #kneescope #arthroscopy . 👇 SHARE your knee scope experience? Did you end-up with 2 or 3 surgical scars?

Critique the Surgical Gown SPIN Technique: Critical Role of Sterile Gowning - Proper sterile gowning technique is one of the most crucial steps in preventing surgical infections. Every year, millions of surgical procedures are performed worldwide, and each one requires meticulous attention to sterile technique. The #surgicalgown isn't just a uniform – it's your patient's first line of defense against surgical site infections. When properly donned, it creates an essential microbial barrier between the surgical team and the sterile field. Key points every healthcare professional should know: - Front of the gown (from chest to sterile field level) is considered sterile - Sleeves are sterile from 2 inches above elbow to the cuff - Remember: "If you can't see it, it's not sterile" (back of gown) #SurgicalSafety - Always maintain sterility during the critical "turning" procedure #surgicalgown . 🎯 Pro Tips: - Keep hands at shoulder level during gowning - Never touch the outside of the gown with bare hands - Wait for complete drying after scrubbing - Double-gloving significantly reduces perforation risks . 👇 SHARE your #steriletechnique experience and tips from the #operatingroom #surgerygownspin

Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement for #HipPainRelief . Direct #AnteriorApproach is a muscle-sparing way to perform #hipreplacement surgery. Unlike traditional hip surgery that cuts through major muscles, DAA reaches the hip joint from the front, working between muscle groups rather than cutting through them, like finding a natural pathway between muscles instead of creating a new one. Advantages can include: - Smaller incision - Faster recovery time - Less post-operative pain - Earlier mobility - More precise implant positioning - No post-surgery hip precautions . During surgery, specialized instruments and imaging or computer-guided technology help surgeons navigate between muscles to remove damaged bone and cartilage. The artificial hip components are then precisely positioned through this muscle-sparing corridor. Not everyone is a candidate for this approach. Factors like BMI, anatomy, and previous hip surgeries play a role in determining eligibility. For most patients, Direct Anterior #HipArthroplasty can mean walking independently earlier and home the same day. #totalhipreplacement #hiparthroplasty . 👇 SHARE you hip replacement journey & experience

Meniscus Transplant: Complex Knee Pain Solution - Meniscal transplant surgery is an innovative procedure that replaces your damaged #meniscus with donor tissue, helping restore normal knee function and potentially delay arthritis development. Typically, the best candidates for #MeniscusTransplant include: - Adults <50 with previous meniscectomy - Persistent knee pain affecting daily activities - Minimal joint arthritis - Normal knee alignment - Stable knee ligaments . Meniscal Replacement involves arthroscopic surgery where a size-matched donor meniscus is carefully positioned and secured in your knee. Recovery typically includes: - Initial 6 wks of limited weight-bearing - Structured physical therapy program - Gradual return to activities over 6-12 mos - Full sports return possible at 9-12 mos This surgery requires careful patient selection and commitment to rehabilitation. While not a permanent solution, it can provide significant relief for the right candidates. Key Benefits include Pain relief, Improved knee function, Potential delay of arthritis and Long-term joint preservation. Success rates show 85-90% patient satisfaction at 5 yrs, though results vary based on individual factors. Early intervention typically yields better outcomes. Complications are rare but may include: - Graft failure (10-15%) - Infection (<1%) - Limited motion or Continued pain #meniscussurgery #meniscustransplant . 👇 SHARE your Meniscus Injury story & experience #OrthopedicSurgery

Suturing Broken Bones: Traditional Cerclage to Advanced FiberTape Technology . Cerclage repair has been a cornerstone technique in #orthopedicsurgery for decades, and innovations continue to advance fracture fixation. Traditional cerclage involves wrapping metal wire or cable around #brokenbones to provide compression + stability, like a high-tech zip tie that holds bone fragments together while healing occurs. This technique is particularly valuable for spiral and oblique fractures where traditional screws might not be ideal. FiberTape technology offers an all-suture alternative to metal wires offers several goals: - No sharp edges or risk of wire breakage #FractureRepair - Completely radiolucent for better fracture visualization - Superior mechanical strength (4300+ N load) - Reduced tissue irritation - Lower profile for easier plate coverage . FiberTape uses ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene combined with polyester to create a strong yet flexible fixation option. Clinical studies show promising results, especially when combined with modern locking plates. Research continues to show that cerclage techniques, when properly applied, do not negatively compromise bone blood supply and minimally-invasive approaches are making these procedures safer and more effective. Whether using traditional cables or modern FiberTape, cerclage remains an essential, time-tested techinque in orthopedic trauma surgery. #brokenbone . 👇 Would you trust a suture to hold your fracture together? . . 🎥 Arthrex FiberTape® Cerclage System @Arthrex

Partial Hip Replacement - Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty: Replacing Half Your Hip? . Primarily used to treat displaced femoral neck fractures, bipolar #hemiarthroplasty is a surgical option that balances recovery time with functional outcomes. Unlike total #hipreplacement (THR), bipolar hemiarthroplasty replaces only the femoral head component of the hip joint, preserving the natural acetabulum (hipsocket). Bipolar implants are designed w/ a dual-bearing system: inner bearing between the prosthetic head and polyethylene liner, and an outer bearing between the metal shell and acetabulum which helps distribute motion between both bearings, potentially reducing acetabular wear + extending implant longevity. Advantages can include: - Shorter surgical duration - Reduced blood loss #HipFracture - Lower technical complexity - Decreased dislocation risk vs THR - Earlier weight-bearing and mobility . Recent studies show that during normal walking, the bipolar prosthesis functions as originally intended, with movement occurring primarily at the inner bearing. While #TotalHipReplacement may offer slightly better long-term functional scores on the Harris Hip Scale, hemiarthroplasty remains an excellent choice for some patients w/ limited mobility demands and shorter life expectancy. #JointReplacement #brokenhip . SHARE your hip replacement experience & success

🪛 Headless Bone Screws: Hardware Engineering a Better #FractureFix . Unlike traditional screws with prominent heads that can irritate surrounding tissue, headless screws completely disappear into the bone, leaving a smooth surface. The pioneer in this technology was the Herbert screw, invented by Timothy Herbert and introduced in 1978. The genius is in the design: these biocompatible titanium #bonescrews feature differential thread pitches at each end. The wider thread pitch at the tip penetrates bone faster than the finer trailing threads, creating powerful compression forces exactly where needed – like a mechanical zip tie pulling bone fragments together. . Headless screws are ideal for fractures in areas with minimal soft tissue coverage or near joint surfaces. They're commonly used for scaphoid fractures (a small wrist bone), capitellum injuries, radial head repairs, and osteochondral fractures. Most modern headless screws are cannulated (hollow-cored), allowing surgeons to place guide wires first, ensuring perfect positioning. This precision placement is critical in complex hand and foot surgeries where millimeters matter. After reducing the fracture, the surgeon carefully selects screw length and thread design. When inserted, the leading threads cross the fracture plane and grip only the far fragment. As the trailing threads engage the near fragment, compression occurs automatically since the screw advances at different rates in each fragment. For patients the goal of headless compression screws is less pain, faster recovery, and better joint function vs. traditional fixation methods and the tech continues evolve with newer designs offering even greater compression + stability. . Carrying around any screws in your bones? #OrthopedicInnovation #MedicalEngineering #bonescrew

What is High Ankle Sprain? Syndesmosis Injury - Diagnosis to Recovery . A high #anklesprain (syndesmosis injury) isn't your typical ankle twist - it's a complex injury affecting the strong ligaments that connect your tibia and fibula above your ankle. While traditional ankle sprains heal relatively quickly, these injuries can require special attention + often longer recovery times. Conservative Treatment Includes: - Initial RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) - Protected weight-bearing w/ appropriate bracing/support - Progressive rehabilitation focusing on: Controlled ankle mobility, Strength training, Balance/proprioception exercises, Sport-specific training . Surgical Intervention is sometimes needed (w/ progressive pain or instability). Modern, minimally-invasive repair technique benefits include: - Earlier weight-bearing - More natural joint motion - Reduced need for hardware removal - Faster return to sports 📊 Research shows that proper #anklerehab after either conservative or surgical treatment is crucial for optimal outcomes. Modern repair techniques can cut recovery time nearly in half vs more traditional screw fixation. Whether treated surgically or non-surgically, patience and proper progression through rehabilitation phases are essential. Working with experienced healthcare providers who understand these complex injuries can make all the difference in your recovery journey! #syndesmosisinjury #anklesurgery . 👇 SHARE your #AnkleInjury experience and tips . . . 🎥 doctorrandall - ankle instability, Arthrex Syndesmosis TightRope XP Implant System

ACL Graft Tensioning: Secret to Perfect #aclreconstruction . Like a guitar string that needs perfect tuning, ACL graft tension has to be just right for optimal surgical outcomes. Too loose? Your knee remains unstable, defeating the purpose of surgery. Too tight? You might face limited range of motion and excess pressure on your joint surfaces. This delicate balance is crucial yet rarely discussed outside surgical circles. Did you know different graft types require different tensioning techniques? Hamstring grafts can lose up to 50% of their initial tension within 15 minutes of placement, while patellar tendon grafts typically lose only 30%. Precise #kneejoint tensioning measurements in Newtons help determine your success and must be customized to your specific case, graft choice, and fixation method. . 👇 SHARE your #ACLinjury journey & tips #ACLReconstruction #SportsMedicine #KneeSurgery #SurgicalTechnique

Is It Cheating To Drill Bones With Precision? Precision With Orthopedic Drill Guides - Pinpoint accuracy when placing screws in bone is vital. The answer often lies in advanced orthopedic drill guides—specialized medical tools that are transforming surgical precision and patient outcomes. Previously, surgeons have relied on freehand techniques for placing screws/implants, requiring exceptional skill + carrying inherent risks. Even the most experienced hands faced challenges navigating complex anatomical structures near critical nerves and blood vessels. Patient-specific drill guide templates—custom-designed make the difference. These #bonedrill guides fit perfectly on the patient's unique bone structure like a puzzle piece, providing surgeons with predetermined, optimal trajectories for implant placement. #bonedrill #orthopedicsurgery . Drill guide technology can reduce deviation between planned and actual screw placement vs. conventional methods and benefits include: - Reduced surgical time/anesthesia exposure - Decreased radiation exposure (fewer intraop X-rays needed) - Minimized risk of iatrogenic injury to surrounding structures - Enhanced fixation stability leading to better healing - Faster patient recovery and reduced complication rates The next frontier? Integration with navigation systems and robotics to create comprehensive surgical planning platforms that further enhance precision and expand possibilities for minimally invasive approaches. . Is it cheating? SHARE your bone hardware experience & insights #SurgicalPrecision #surgicalinstruments

Top 3 Reasons Your Surgeon Writes on Your Body Before Your Procedure #surgicalmarkers Those purple marks aren't just random doodles – they're crucial safety measures that help ensure successful surgeries. Surgical markers are sterile, single use and an often an important part of planning your successful procedure - precision and prevention. These surgical "roadmaps" serve multiple critical purposes: 1️⃣ Site Verification: Think of it as triple-checking your GPS before a crucial journey. These marks help verify the exact location for surgery, preventing wrong-site procedures. #SurgeryPrep 2️⃣ Surgical Planning: More planning goes into surgery than the actual procedure. Preop landmark sketching helps surgeons map out precise incision locations and sizes, ensuring optimal access while minimizing tissue damage. #orthopedics 3️⃣ Team Communication: The marks create a visual language that all operating room staff can understand, enhancing coordination + reducing errors. #SurgicalSafety . The purple ink used is specially formulated to be antibacterial and anti-fungal, making it safe even if it contacts the incision. Some surgeons even use Sharpies wrapped in sterile pouches because their ink has proven antimicrobial properties. #preop #preparingforsurgery #kneesurgery . ⬇️ Notice any "Surgeon Artwork" on your skin after surgery? SHARE your experience & insights

🥕 Less Invasive Ankle Fracture Treatment: Fibular Nail Fixation . Traditional plate-and-screw fixation has long been the go-to treatment, but intramedullary nail fixation has emerged as an excellent #AnkleFracture repair option for some patients. Advantages can include: - smaller incisions vs traditional plating #AnkleSurgery - lower infection rates - Reduced postoperative pain - Faster return to weight-bearing - Fewer hardware removal surgeries . Biomechanical studies demonstrate that #fibularnails provide comparable or better stability compared to traditional plating. The nail's unique design allows for both proximal and distal fixation, ensuring optimal rotational control and fracture alignment. The minimally invasive technique preserves blood supply and soft tissue, which can lead to better healing. Recent studies show union rates approaching 100% with minimal complications. For elderly patients or those with compromised skin conditions, this could mean the difference between successful healing and potential complications. . 👇 SHARE your #AnkleInjury experience and tips #OrthopedicSurgery #brokenankle . . Carrot - Fibula demo FibuLock® Nail With the TightRope® Fixation System

🦿Hip Replacement: How much bone is actually removed? . During a total #hipreplacement surgeons perform precise bone cuts to remove damaged parts and create space for new artificial components. The main bone cuts happen in two key areas: 1️⃣ The femoral head (the "ball" of your hip joint) is carefully removed from the top of your thighbone. Your #orthopedicsurgeon makes a precise cut across the femoral neck, taking away the worn-out ball portion while preserving as much healthy bone as possible. #BoneCuts 2️⃣ The acetabulum (hip socket) gets special attention too. Your surgeon removes damaged cartilage and a thin layer of bone from the socket, creating a clean, smooth surface. Using specialized tools (reamer), they shape the socket into a perfect hemisphere – typically removing just 1-2 millimeters of bone to prepare it for the new artificial cup. Despite these significant modifications, surgeons remove only what's necessary – usually less than 1% of your total bone mass. The cuts are strategically planned using advanced imaging and surgical guides to ensure perfect positioning of your new joint. Modern #JointReplacement techniques prioritize bone preservation, crucial for the implant's long-term success. . 👇 SHARE your #TotalHipReplacement experience & journey