There are nearly 40 million people in the United States affected by some form of arthritis.
Which means one very likely thing—odds are, you know someone with arthritis. You might even have it yourself. The unfortunate fact of the matter is, though, that a majority of Americans are ignorant to the true details of the disease until after they’re diagnosed. And this keeps them from taking the appropriate steps within their power to avoid the onset.
Read on to learn a bit more about the disease itself, in what forms it comes and what you can do to prevent it.
What are the symptoms?
Arthritis can be misdiagnosed and mistaken for other common aches and pains. While a majority of people will experience pain and stiffness regularly as they age, it’s when hands and knees become increasingly swollen and immobile when you should be concerned about arthritis.
How is it caused?
When inflammation develops in the tissue that lines your joints, these areas can become painful and stiff. Essentially, think of any place where two bones meet, like your elbows and knees – these are common areas to encounter arthritic symptoms.
What are the types of arthritis?
While there is a vast variety of types of arthritis – some even estimate it’s in the hundreds – most cases fall into three common types.
Osteoarthritis
More often than not, a person who contracts the disease will be suffering from this type of arthritis. It’s caused by general wear and tear that may include overuse of your joints or simply getting older. It can be injury-based (making it especially common in athletic or active people) or weight-based.
Where you see it: Most commonly found in weight-bearing joints, such as knees, hips and feet
How to detect it: This type of arthritis is accompanied by deep pain; difficulty with simply, everyday activities like getting dressed and crouching; and regular stiffness during the morning hours
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Not all forms of arthritis are caused by usage over time and aging. This type, in fact, is a disease related to your immune system in which, many believe, the body is attacked systematically and particularly in the joints. Some researchers have attributed this to the body merely confusing elements of its own systems for virus or disease and attacking itself.
Where you see it: Can be found in any joints throughout the body – it varies greatly from person to person
How to detect it: This type of arthritis is accompanied by symptoms similar to the ones found in osteoarthritis – just more intense, and, for joints that come in pairs, you’ll likely experience these symptoms in both (i.e., knees, elbows, etc.)
Psoriatic Arthritis
Sometimes inflammation of the skin and joints can cause arthritic conditions – and it’s the third-most-common form of the disease. Though borne out of psoriasis, only about 10-30 percent of people with psoriasis end up with related arthritis. Also, unlike the above types, it might just affect one or two joints, rather than most or all.
Where you see it: Most commonly found through swelling of the fingers and toes
How to detect it: This type of arthritis is accompanied by symptoms such as discoloration of the fingernails and patchy, red skin
What can I do?
Despite the fact that there is no surefire way to keep from getting arthritis, there are things under your control that can help keep your joints healthy and mobile. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can stave off osteoarthritis, which is most often caused by obesity when found in young people. By avoiding injury, you can prevent chronic conditions – be careful during athletic activities and get properly trained. Finally, quitting smoking actually has a great effect on contraction of rheumatoid arthritis – keeping off cigarettes keeps your immune system strong.
While there’s no one way to prevent or diagnose arthritis, there are things in your power to affect change—take care of yourself and make smart decisions, and it’ll pay off in your older years.
4 Alternative Treatments Our Doctors Love
/in Physical Therapy /by Christopher HolmanMonitoring and managing your orthopedic health can sometimes make you feel helpless. After all, once you leave the doctor’s office, what can you do for yourself?
As it turns out, there are a variety of alternative treatments you can try out at home (or right here in our offices on your next visit) that may give you a more natural boost to your overall – and orthopedic – health.
Acupuncture
One such alternative treatment the doctors at Orthopedic Institute are big-time believers in is acupuncture. We’re so on board with it as a pain-management therapy that our very own Dr. Chang specializes in and administers it at our clinic. The benefits of acupuncture are plentiful, as it stimulates “meridians,” a.k.a. energy pathways, that modulate your neurology. It’s proven effective for treatment of illnesses such as restless leg syndrome, nausea and chronic pain or headaches.
Turmeric
Originating as a root vegetable, turmeric can be used in a nutritional sense in foods, mostly as seasoning in powdered or ground form. But it turns out it has a great deal of beneficial properties for your overall health, as well. Because of its natural oils, it has a positive effect in fighting inflammation at the joints and can ease the pain surrounding cramping, aches and pains. As far as natural anti-inflammatories go, it’s a top-notch option for those seeking alternative treatments.
Manuka Honey
Sourced from the nectar of plants found most commonly in the Southern Hemisphere, Manuka honey is sometimes used in foods but, like turmeric, can have highly positive effects on your wellbeing. Because of higher levels of enzymes than traditional honey, Manuka has a pain-relief factor when it comes to burns, wounds and ulcers, as well as the ability to assist in rebuilding cells and tissue following an infection.
Yoga
This is probably one that’s familiar to you already, but yoga continues to be one of the best, easiest ways to ease joint pain and build overall wellness. The practice has been known to limber your body to stave off injury and improve your musculature and balance. And this goes without saying, but it improves your flexibility, something that can make joint pain in your knees, shoulders and the like subside considerably over time. (And best of all, there are ample opportunities to join a local class or learn yoga from a friend or family member.)
Try it out
If you have questions, talk to one of our doctors next time you stop in—we’d be happy to walk you through your options when it comes to natural, alternative options for easing chronic pain, soreness and injury.
Understanding Arthritis (And What Your Options Are)
/in Hand and Wrist, Pain Management /by Christopher HolmanThere are nearly 40 million people in the United States affected by some form of arthritis.
Which means one very likely thing—odds are, you know someone with arthritis. You might even have it yourself. The unfortunate fact of the matter is, though, that a majority of Americans are ignorant to the true details of the disease until after they’re diagnosed. And this keeps them from taking the appropriate steps within their power to avoid the onset.
Read on to learn a bit more about the disease itself, in what forms it comes and what you can do to prevent it.
What are the symptoms?
Arthritis can be misdiagnosed and mistaken for other common aches and pains. While a majority of people will experience pain and stiffness regularly as they age, it’s when hands and knees become increasingly swollen and immobile when you should be concerned about arthritis.
How is it caused?
When inflammation develops in the tissue that lines your joints, these areas can become painful and stiff. Essentially, think of any place where two bones meet, like your elbows and knees – these are common areas to encounter arthritic symptoms.
What are the types of arthritis?
While there is a vast variety of types of arthritis – some even estimate it’s in the hundreds – most cases fall into three common types.
Osteoarthritis
More often than not, a person who contracts the disease will be suffering from this type of arthritis. It’s caused by general wear and tear that may include overuse of your joints or simply getting older. It can be injury-based (making it especially common in athletic or active people) or weight-based.
Where you see it: Most commonly found in weight-bearing joints, such as knees, hips and feet
How to detect it: This type of arthritis is accompanied by deep pain; difficulty with simply, everyday activities like getting dressed and crouching; and regular stiffness during the morning hours
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Not all forms of arthritis are caused by usage over time and aging. This type, in fact, is a disease related to your immune system in which, many believe, the body is attacked systematically and particularly in the joints. Some researchers have attributed this to the body merely confusing elements of its own systems for virus or disease and attacking itself.
Where you see it: Can be found in any joints throughout the body – it varies greatly from person to person
How to detect it: This type of arthritis is accompanied by symptoms similar to the ones found in osteoarthritis – just more intense, and, for joints that come in pairs, you’ll likely experience these symptoms in both (i.e., knees, elbows, etc.)
Psoriatic Arthritis
Sometimes inflammation of the skin and joints can cause arthritic conditions – and it’s the third-most-common form of the disease. Though borne out of psoriasis, only about 10-30 percent of people with psoriasis end up with related arthritis. Also, unlike the above types, it might just affect one or two joints, rather than most or all.
Where you see it: Most commonly found through swelling of the fingers and toes
How to detect it: This type of arthritis is accompanied by symptoms such as discoloration of the fingernails and patchy, red skin
What can I do?
Despite the fact that there is no surefire way to keep from getting arthritis, there are things under your control that can help keep your joints healthy and mobile. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can stave off osteoarthritis, which is most often caused by obesity when found in young people. By avoiding injury, you can prevent chronic conditions – be careful during athletic activities and get properly trained. Finally, quitting smoking actually has a great effect on contraction of rheumatoid arthritis – keeping off cigarettes keeps your immune system strong.
While there’s no one way to prevent or diagnose arthritis, there are things in your power to affect change—take care of yourself and make smart decisions, and it’ll pay off in your older years.
The Right Fit: Choosing the Perfect Running Shoes
/in Foot and Ankle, News /by Christopher HolmanWith the warm weather coming soon, the sidewalks and pathways will be packed with runners. But before you head to your next run, it’s important to make sure you have the right shoes.
Check out our tips on how to choose the right shoes to support your feet while running.
What’s the difference?
Sure, picking out your everyday shoes might be more about the look than the function. And depending on how much you value comfort, that might outrank style for you. But when it comes to running shoes, there’s a big difference. Most importantly, pick shoes that offer enough space to accommodate the width of your foot. Think about how your mom tested your shoes out when you were school shopping – account for one thumb-width between the end of the longest toe and the end of the shoe. (And women should consider squared or rounded toes, rather than pointed ones.)
What arch is best?
First, you must determine what type of foot, or more specifically what type of arch you have: low, medium, or high. You should always measure your arch height when you’re standing to avoid an inaccurate measurement. Arch height will determine the shape of the shoe needed, also known as the “last”. The last of the shoe is the amount of curve on the bottom of the shoe. Shoes are built on a straight, semi-curved, or curved last. Identifying your foot type can also help you figure out how much cushioning or support you will need.
Don’t skimp on analyzing the arch of your foot when it comes to picking out running shoes. Even the way you run has an affect on which type of shoe to select. Inspect the shoe you’ve been running in for the following:
If all else fails and your wear pattern isn’t speaking to you, another way to tell is by having a running analysis done by a trained professional. (And the pros at Orthopedic Institute can certainly help you identify your desirable arch as well.)
What about the price?
That price tag can be a little scary – but the saying is true: “You get what you pay for.” Buying the cheapest running shoes you can find will likely mean you’ll need to replace them sooner or you’ll suffer the consequences from the poor support. Investing a little more traditionally ensures you’re getting the best quality materials and construction. Don’t worry – you won’t have to drop $200 on a pair of shoes. Good athletic trainers (running shoes) run anywhere from $80-150.
Get to Know Brad Pfeifle
/in Orthopedic Institute, Sports Medicine /by Christopher HolmanIt may sound like an exaggeration, but it’s about as close to fact as you can get – everyone at Orthopedic Institute loves Brad.
Ask almost any athlete in the region, and if they have had an injury, they have probably been to Brad Pfeifle at OI. Brad is a true ambassador of OI, serving as the Vice President of Sports Medicine and Rehab Services and leading more than 30 people in his departments.
So what makes this true OI staple special? Let’s dive in, shall we…
What’s makes Brad great?
Our very own orthopedic surgeon Peter Looby perhaps says it best:
“Brad is the best athletic trainer I’ve known in 40 years of being treated by and working closely with trainers, from high school to the NFL. No one individual is responsible for more internal referrals to OI than Brad. Sometimes I think he literally knows everyone in the state. If you walk through a crowd at a sporting event with Brad, it’s likely to take 40 minutes to travel 100 feet, because everyone stops to talk to him.”
What makes Brad a great trainer?
So Brad clearly makes a lasting impression – but how? Well, whether you are a weekend warrior, a high school athlete or someone who earns a living playing a sport, Brad will work you to your own 100 percent effort. And he’ll offer great advice along the way and have you feeling and performing like you never have before. (And the fact that he’s professional and personable certainly doesn’t hurt!)
One of Brad’s own trainees Mark Ovenden knows all this first-hand. He was playing racquetball on a Sunday with a good friend who happened to blow out his Achilles. He called Brad on a Sunday and, even though he had never met Mark’s friend, got him in a boot that night and in surgery Monday morning.
That’s what Brad does – he strives to make sure everyone else is in good shape.
But what about Brad outside of work?
Since it’s June and we recently celebrated Father’s Day, it’s only fitting we hit the job that Brad is most proud of – raising two daughters, Sophie and Olivia. Brad says it is hard to talk about his girls without tearing up – take it directly from him:
“Raising my girls has many similarities to working with athletes. Some days they need a kick in the pants, and some days they need a hug. They put up with me being gone a lot with my work and never complain about it. My wife and I cherish all of the great memories they have given us and look forward to all of the new adventures. I am so proud of my girls because they have become such loving, caring and passionate young women.”
When you ask the Pfeifle girls about their dad, they just light up with enthusiasm and love for him:
“He is one of the most influential people in our lives. He works so hard, and when he comes home he always has time for us. People ask us all of the time if he is the same at home as he is at work, and we tell them he is the same genuine, fun-loving guy! We love his motto that we’re sure his patients hear all of the time, and that is, ‘When in doubt, knees out.’ But the saying we love hearing from him every day is, ‘I love you.’”
Brad is just one of the many great, highly qualified trainers we have on-hand at Orthopedic Institute – get to know what our team has to offer.
5 Ways to Combat Shoulder Pain
/in Pain Management, Shoulder and Elbow /by Christopher HolmanShoulder pain can really do a number on your day. Especially when it’s most days.
When it comes to intermittent shoulder pain, it can sometimes be aggravating enough to impede you from doing everyday tasks you enjoy or even need to do to accomplish tasks at work or home. It can keep you from engaging in enjoyable physical activities, such as swimming or water sports, in conversation or even in sleep.
There are a lot of causes of shoulder pain—and if you’re ready to see a doctor, stop by our walk-in clinic or schedule an appointment. But between now and then, try out these tips to lessen the pain.
1. Warm Up
If you’re exercising regularly, it’ll solve a whole lot of problems with your physical state. But if you’re not exercising properly, it can really do a number on your shoulders. Make sure that before you jump to the bench press you take time to stretch and warm up – it’s key to your exercise regimen.
2. Emphasize Posture
What you were taught in grade school still stands. Sitting up in your chair really does matter. Especially if you work an office, be aware of how you’re sitting at your desk. Plant your feet flat on the floor, support your elbows, sit up and don’t slouch and – potentially most importantly – take a breather every 30 minutes or so by rolling your shoulders and stepping away from the screen.
3. Don’t Slack Off
One of the first instincts we have when we’re sore is to take a load off. But try to resist that urge – plopping down on the couch for an extended period of time when you’re experiencing shoulder pain will likely slow down your recovery (unless recommended by a doctor). Let pain be your guide. If it increases your pain, don’t do it. Healing takes regular blood flow and movement – don’t forget to roll your shoulders and stretch an arm across your body at least hourly.
4. Get a Massage
Now for the fun one – it actually pays to get a massage. Treat yourself a bit and set up an appointment. Massage therapy can do a lot to treat mild and moderate muscle strains – it reduces spasms and inflammation. Let your masseuse know where your experiencing pain and avoid intense rubdowns that intensify your pain.
5. See a Doctor
If the pain is lingering and nothing seems to be nipping it in the bud, it might be time for a doctor to intervene. They can let you know if you should be concerned about a more serious condition, like a fracture or arthritis. It’s the easiest way to regain your regular mobility and eradicate or reduce the pain.
If your shoulder pain is getting out of hand, try out these tips – then call Orthopedic Institute at 605.331.5890. Shoulder pain (and many other types of joint pain) is something we’re well-versed in treating.
Insider Tips: Exercising Like a Physical Therapist
/in Orthopedic Institute, Physical Therapy /by Christopher HolmanWhen you exercise like the pros do, you save yourself a lot of aches and pains down the road. That’s why taking the advice of a physical therapist on your workout regimen is a smart road to take for keeping your body high-functioning and healthy.
Try out the below tips next time you head to the gym.
Stretch for Cardio
We all know that stretching before exercise is advised, but it’s particularly important before doing cardio. Why? Well, these types of exercises put your body through a lot, so it’s all the more important to prep beforehand to avoid tightness, soreness or even injury.
When you work out rigorously, the muscles you’re working will experience lactic acid buildup that will tighten them up. Your body creates this lactic acid to route oxygen to your body to fuel your physical activity. This tightness increases the probability you’ll tear something. That’s why stretching before cardio is a good idea – it helps release potential tightness both before and after your workouts.
Work Your Muscles
Beyond stretching, when it comes to safely working your muscles, remember that choosing the right weight or level of resistance is key to keeping from being injured. A good rule of thumb is to select a level that challenges you – even making the last few reps a little difficult or tiring – without choosing a level that totally obliterates you. If the reps feel too easy or too hard, add or remove weights in small increments, like two or three pounds at a time, until you hit your sweet spot.
Keep this regimen going on a regular schedule so your body gets used to your workout routine. And don’t neglect one part of the body in favor of another – combine upper- and lower-body workouts. Keep this up for the long term, and your body will build to more resistance and more weight at a healthy pace.
Detecting an Injury
In the midst of a workout, it can sometimes be difficult to tell when a pain is an injury or just soreness. That’s why it’s important to know the things to check to give yourself a mini-assessment. Start by checking if you felt anything pop or break – injuries are almost always caused by a specific event. Next, check to see if there are any signs of injury, like tenderness or bulging.
Beyond that, it’s all about time and intensity. Has this pain been sustained for a long period of time, and is it moderate, severe or unbearable? These are things you can ask yourself to determine if a visit to your physical therapist is in the cards or if you can prescribe yourself some over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or heating or icing your pain away.
Keep these tips in mind during your next workout to make sure you’re exercising safely, healthfully and smartly – your physical therapist wants to see you in top form, so make good decisions!
6 Things Your Orthopedic Doctor Wants You to Know
/in Orthopedic Institute, Pain Management, Physical Therapy /by Christopher HolmanAt Orthopedic Institute, we have seen firsthand that the choices you make in your youth can affect the way your body ages. Our doctors have seen that many of our patients who age most gracefully have adopted common habits that help them maintain their physical, mental, and emotional health.
Check out these 6 tips that your doctor would likely want you to know about how best to approach your orthopedic care.
Take care of yourself
This one goes without saying, but your physician wants you to take the proper precautions with your day-to-day decisions to ensure your overall health stays in top form. Don’t smoke, cut back on unhealthy foods and get moving – cutting out bad habits and getting proper nutrition and exercise will have positive effects on your joint health.
Maintain a healthy weight
Orthopedic surgeons have seen firsthand what being overweight can do to your joints and bones. Most notably, it can lead to osteoarthritis, or “wear-and-tear arthritis”. Staying at a healthy weight will also decrease your chances of breast cancer and diabetes during your later years. Lastly, it can increase your energy, enhance your mood, and help your body fight off illness. For more information on a weight loss plan our physicians recommend click here.
Build an active social life
Spend time with people you enjoy and who make you feel upbeat. Many of our happiest elderly patients are those who interact or converse with another person at least once every day. Find the strength to be the person who initiates outings such as lunch, days at the park and shopping. Volunteering is a great way to meet people with similar interests while giving back to the community.
Get a good night’s sleep
As adults, it is easy to place sleep at the bottom of the priority list. But this is a huge mistake. Your body needs sleep in order to heal from daily activities. If you’re not sleeping, this is not happening. If you have trouble falling asleep, increase your daytime activity. Develop bedtime rituals such as soaking in a bath, or listening to music to help you relax. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark and cool. Of course, we now know that lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, increase obesity, and put us at risk of developing diabetes and heart disease, so sleep does matter.
Exercise and stay active
As has been mentioned numerous times above, exercise is one of the most important ways to stay healthy. Exercise can have a profound effect on the brain by helping to prevent memory loss, cognitive decline and dementia. It can often improve your overall mood, as well as help lessen the effects of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Now that you’re in the know, put these tips into action. However, if you have ongoing joint pain, it’s time to contact Orthopedic Institute and get the appointment ball rolling.
What Is Causing My Shoulder Pain?
/in Pain Management, Physical Therapy, Shoulder and Elbow /by Christopher HolmanIt happens to the best of us. We wake up, get out of bend and wince – “What is that pain in my [insert body part here]?”
When it comes to shoulder pain, there are a variety of causes, depending on your level of physical activity, age and even career.
Rotator cuff injury
You rely on your rotator cuff muscles to keep your shoulders in position and allow you maximum mobility in your upper body. So when the rotator cuff experiences a tear or strain, it can cause a lot of shoulder pain that might manifest itself most often when you’re lifting your arm up or pull on an object. If you’ve experienced a tear in your rotator cuff, surgery might be the answer to repair it, depending on the severity.
Bursitis
Joints as a general rule are prone to bursitis, and shoulders are no different. Bursitis refers to fluid accumulation in the form of sacs in or near your joints. Bursitis may be common, but it isn’t pleasant – it can cause pain, redness and inflammation. These issues typically occur as the result of some sort of bodily injury, so protect your joints when performing physical activity. Bursitis is typically treatable through a course of anti-inflammatories, but surgery and physical therapy may be necessary for long-term afflictions.
Tendinitis
If your job or your favorite after-work activities involve a lot of shoulder movement that repeats itself on a frequent basis, your tendons might be reacting to an irritation. Think of a baseball pitcher or tennis player who repeatedly moves his or her shoulder in the same way over and over. Your doctor or physical therapist will likely prescribe an over-the-counter medication, joint rest and hot or cold compresses to treat your tendinitis.
‘Frozen shoulder’
Just like any other join in your body, the shoulder can be prone to inflammation and swelling. In some cases, you may notice you’ve lost much of the mobility in your shoulder, causing “frozen shoulder.” This can be the result of inflammation or other sorts of chemical imbalances. The right course of physical therapy and meds often clears up frozen shoulder. But surgery can sometimes be necessary in severe cases. After a shoulder surgery, including total replacement, frozen shoulder should not occur if you are attending regular physical therapy and performing recommended exercises and treatments at home.
Whatever your symptoms, Orthopedic Institute can help – set up an appointment with our team today to get to the bottom of your ongoing shoulder pain.
10 Ways to Be a Great Sports Parent
/in Sports Medicine /by Christopher HolmanYou’re your own child’s biggest cheering section – there’s no doubt about that. But when it comes to being a great sports-parent, it’s more than wearing their number, painting your face and shouting some “rah-rahs.”
Keep these tips in mind when encouraging the student athletes in your home to be safe, happy and successful.
Stretching
There’s virtually no better way to avoid injury as a student athlete, or anyone for that matter, than by stretching before exercising. Going hard at a workout is many student athletes’ tendency, but don’t let them get away with skipping this key pre-exercise step or they may risk injury or strain.
Goals
Communication is key. Talk to your student athletes about his or her goals – strength, calorie-burning, game performance, workout routines – and share in helping to meet them. If you know your child’s athletic goals, your encouragement will be much more meaningful and their commitment will flourish.
Hydration
When you work hard, you need fuel to keep your body going. And the most important fuel your student athlete needs is water. Lots of it. If he or she is in the midst of a hardcore training program, skip juices and sodas and maximize water intake.
Walking
It’s always a good idea to mix in moderate physical activity with strenuous activities like competitions and intense workouts. Advise your student athlete to walk or bike places throughout the day, as opposed to hopping in a car for short trips. It’ll keep them loose and stretch out their legs before heading back to the gym the next day.
Square meals
Food is hugely important in keeping your student athlete going through practices, workouts and competitions. Make sure he or she is eating small, protein- and “good carb”-rich meals frequently throughout the day. (And don’t forget to fuel after a strenuous event, too – don’t wait much longer than an hour to replenish proteins!) If you’re looking for a delicious post-workout snack, many scientists suggest chocolate milk.
Multi-sport play
It’s easy to think that playing one sport will build talent and focus. However, research shows that it actually increases the likelihood that your child will experience an injury. Encourage your child to work different muscle groups, as well as learn different skills, by participating in more than one sport throughout the year.
Safety
Your kids can get gung-ho about a sport they really love, so much so that they might consider themselves “tough enough” to skip precaution all together. But athletic prowess is never an excuse to skip out on safety equipment – from helmets, to padding to proper footwear, make sure your student athlete is protecting him or herself.
Breaks
Even though it might be easy to let your world totally revolve around athletics when you’re a sports-parent, don’t forget to encourage your student athlete to take breaks to enjoy other hobbies and interests. Burnout can have a negative effect on performance, both physically and mentally, so stress the importance of sport breaks.
Immunizations
Depending on the time of year, flu season might coincide with your student athlete’s seasonal sport of choice. Catching the flu can knock them down for the count for as long as weeks, so keep your child up to date on his or her immunizations, including the flu shot, to help them stay healthy all season long.
Rest
At the end of the day, a student athlete’s body needs rest after rigorous physical activity. Whether it’s some relaxation during daytime off-hours or a proper amount of sleep overnight, rest allows their bodies to repair and replenish themselves for the next day. (That means avoiding caffeine, electronic screens, eating immediately before bedtime.)
Knowing the right suggestions and decisions to make for your athletic child isn’t always easy – Orthopedic Institute can help you take great care of the student athletes in your life.
Good Advice from the Lion Hunter’s Wife
/in Knee /by Christopher HolmanThat’s what a lot of guys say when they walk into Orthopedic Institute’s walk-in clinic, OI NOW. So says Ryan Slaba who runs the clinic. Women just seem to know what’s best for their husbands, children and themselves says Slaba, a physician’s assistant, who has been running orthopedic walk-in clinics for 6 years.
“A lot of people are very active and don’t have time to schedule an appointment,” says Slaba. “They want to get things taken care of right away.”
That’s where OI NOW shines. Men and women on the go need things taken care of now, says Slaba, without an appointment. Sprains. Strains. Fractures. Work-related injuries, low back pain, overuse injuries, sports related injuries—anything orthopedic. When it comes to non-emergency orthopedic care, OI NOW can do it all—take an X-Ray, MRI or a CT scan, give an injection, wrap an ankle, set a bone and get people on their way. And, if necessary, OI NOW will make referrals to the broad spectrum of experienced surgeons on the OI staff.
Most of all, OI NOW patients get personalized care. “We listen,” says Slaba. “We problem solve. And we do the right thing for the patient.”
OI NOW sees just about everything and everyone, from school aged kids, to stay-at-home moms, to lion hunters—as evidenced by the ironic case of Troy Swift, electrical contractor, athlete and lion hunter. The hunt took place in New Mexico. It was a dangerous, grueling 60-hour man and dog chase and Swift bagged a large male mountain lion without a scratch. But, next day, while playing basketball, Swift went up for a dunk and on the way down twisted his knee. “Everyone on the court heard it go “POP!’” said Swift.
Diagnosis: a torn meniscus.
Slaba referred Swift to a surgeon. Michael Adler, MD, the surgeon on call for Orthopedic Institute, performed the surgical repair, and today Swift feels good, has his stability back, and is working and taking care of livestock.
Swift says he got great care from everyone. But what he liked most was “how fast they got me in.” Swift injured himself between Christmas and New Years in New Mexico and drove home. “I went into OI NOW on a Monday and had surgery on Friday of that same week,” said Swift. “They expedited me through the process.”