Category: Knee injury

  • Regain mobility and comfort with joint replacement surgery

    Regain mobility and comfort with joint replacement surgery

    Joint pain Arthritis and tendon problems Chronic pain and joint instability can significantly affect your quality of life. Joint replacement surgery may be the answer when physical therapy and non-surgical treatment options fail to provide relief. Bone & Joint Specialists Orthopedic Center, with four convenient locations in Indiana, offers comprehensive joint replacement solutions to help you regain an active, pain-free lifestyle.

    What is joint replacement surgery?

    Joint replacement surgery involves replacing damaged or arthritic joint parts with a biocompatible ceramic, plastic, or metal prosthesis. The purpose of the prosthesis is to imitate the natural motion and movement of the joint. Common joint replacements include knees and hips, but the surgery can also be performed on the elbow, shoulder, wrist and ankle.

    Who is an ideal candidate for joint replacement surgery?

    Joint replacement surgery often becomes necessary when nonsurgical treatments, such as activity changes, medications, and physical therapy, have failed to provide adequate relief and mobility. Your orthopedic specialist will discuss your condition, medical history, and relevant health factors to determine if joint replacement surgery is right for you.

    Risks and benefits of joint replacement surgery

    There are risks associated with joint replacement surgery, such as:

    • Infection
    • Bleed
    • Nerve damage
    • Blood clots

    Although there are risks, the benefits usually far outweigh these risks. Most patients experience significant improvements in comfort and mobility, with the new joint achieving nearly 100 percent of its range of motion.

    The joint replacement surgery procedure explained

    Joint replacement surgeries are usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The surgeon will replace the damaged bone and cartilage with the correct prosthesis. Before surgery, your doctor will provide details about the procedure, including the locations of the incision and the expected duration of the surgery.

    Recovery and aftercare for joint replacement surgeries

    Recovery from joint replacement surgery usually takes four to six weeks. Shortly after the operation you will start walking short distances, initially with a walker or walking stick. You will eventually walk without assistance as you progress through your physical therapy program. Physical therapy begins as early as the day after surgery and should be continued between therapy sessions as your therapist recommends. A follow-up visit with your surgeon will take place six weeks after the procedure.

    Schedule a consultation

    If you are experiencing joint pain and conservative treatments do not provide relief, contact Bone & Joint Specialists Orthopedic Center at 219.795.3360. We proudly serve patients in Highland, Hobart, Merrillville and Valparaiso, IN.

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  • Peptides, bone health and prolonging your health with Nathalie Niddam + BoneCoach™ Osteoporosis and osteopenia – BoneCoach™

    Peptides, bone health and prolonging your health with Nathalie Niddam + BoneCoach™ Osteoporosis and osteopenia – BoneCoach™

    Have you come across the terms ‘peptides‘ And ‘bioregulators‘, but not sure what they mean for your health?

    Are you curious about how these miracles can support you in your… osteoporosis trip?

    What if there was a way? not just to add years to your life, but life to your years?

    Dive into this insightful episode for answers!

    Come with me as I sit down Nathalie Niddam, a podcast host, a lifelong biohacker, a holistic nutritionist, a human resource, and an epigenetic coach. Together we unravel the mysteries of peptides and bioregulators and shed light on them revolutionary potential for improving bone health and redefining what it means to age gracefully. Come with us the science, evidence, and real-world applications that might just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.

    Episode timeline

    0:00 – Episode begins

    1:20 – Introduction of guest Nathalie Niddam

    2:39 – Nathalie’s journey to health, longevity, biohacking and peptides

    7:01 – Understanding what peptides are

    11:27 – Exploring the nature of bioregulators

    16:05 – Beneficial peptides and bioregulators for the 50 to 70+ age group, with an emphasis on osteoporosis and bone health

    20:48 – Pineal and thymus bioregulators: improving quality of life and bone density

    23:02 – Discussion of evidence, human studies and recipe questions

    27:35 – Other important bioregulators to know about

    32:52 – Acquiring and administering peptides in the US and Canada

    40:23 – The role of peptides in bone healing and their relationship to growth hormones

    46:09 – Comparing stem cells and peptides

    48:46 – Key takeaways for the audience

    51:10 – Connecting with Nathalie Niddam

    Sources mentioned

    **Show notes @ https://bonecoach.com/natniddam-peptides-osteoporosis-superhuman-performance

    Below you will find Nathalie Niddam’s sources!

    >> Join her Facebook community – The Optimizing Superhuman Performance Group – HERE

    >> Click here to watch the Biohacking Superhuman Performance Podcast

    >> Connect with Nathalie on her website

    What can you do to support your bone health and this podcast?

    1. Press the “Subscribe” button on your respective podcast player (i.e. Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and TuneIn). Never miss an episode that can help improve your bone health.

    2. Leave a review. The more positive ratings and reviews and the more subscribers we have, the more people can find us and get the answers to the questions they need. Thank you! 🙂

    3. Tell a friend about The Bone Coach Podcast or share via text, email or social. Do you know of a Facebook group where people can benefit from this information? Feel free to hit any of the share buttons below.

    About Nathalie Niddam:

    Nathalie Niddam is a podcast host, Longevity Biohacker, holistic nutritionist, human potential and epigenetic coach, and a self-proclaimed science nerd with a passion for human health.

    A few years ago she came across peptides at a health optimization conference. She was fascinated by the potential these small proteins seemed to offer. This became the catalyst for the launch of her large and growing Facebook community – the Optimizing Superhuman Performance Group – to fuel the growing interest in these incredible connections. A year later, she launched the Biohacking Superhuman Performance Podcast, which is now rated as a top 100 podcast in its category in the US and Canada.

    Nat’s passion is looking at longevity through the lens of everything we can do in every area of ​​our lives to promote vibrant health, boundless energy focused on a healthy mind and body! She works one-on-one with clients, manages two large and growing communities, and regularly speaks at international conferences on the regenerative powers of peptides and peptide bioregulators.

    Medical disclaimer

    The information shared above is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or nutritional therapy advice; it does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition; it should not be used as a substitute or substitute for medical advice from physicians and trained medical professionals. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or are currently taking prescription medications, you should discuss any changes in your diet and lifestyle or possible use of nutritional supplements with your doctor. You should not stop prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.

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  • Turning the Page to Good Bone Health – Bone Talk

    Turning the Page to Good Bone Health – Bone Talk

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    October isn’t just the month of falling leaves and pumpkin-spiced lattes; it’s also National Book Month! Like a well-written novel, our bones have their own story, and it’s up to us to make sure it’s a story of strength and resilience.

    The prologue: family history

    Knowing whether there is a history of osteoporosis or fractures in your family can provide valuable insight your own risk factors. Genetics plays an important role, and a family history of these conditions can increase your susceptibility. By recognizing this family bond, you can take proactive steps to protect your bone health through lifestyle choices, regular checkups and early screenings. This knowledge will allow you to create a healthier story for yourself and potentially break the cycle of bone health problems, ensuring a stronger, more resilient future.

    Chapter 1: Building a solid foundation

    Every great book starts with a strong opening chapter, and your journey to bone health is no different. You need to lay the foundation for strong bones early in life. Childhood is the crucial period for bone building that is the cornerstone for lifelong skeletal health. This phase is crucial because our body builds up bone mass more quickly peak bone mass usually reached in the late teens or early twenties. It’s the time when the choices we make in diet, physical activity and overall lifestyle have a significant impact on our skeletal strength for years to come. Neglecting this critical period can lead to weaker bones, making people more susceptible to fractures and conditions such as osteoporosis as they get older. That’s why focusing on bone health during childhood is a long-term investment in a healthier and more active future.

    Chapter 2: The main characters

    In the literary world, characters drive the plot forward, and in the world of bone health calcium and vitamin D play leading roles. These essential nutrients help your bones stay strong and resilient. Just like finding the perfect cast for a movie adaptation, be sure to include dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods in your diet to get your daily dose of calcium and soak up the sun for vitamin D. Other nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium and magnesium also play an important role.

    Chapter 3: The Plot Twist

    Osteoporosis is a bone-weakening condition that can sneak up on you like an unexpected twist in a mystery novel. The disease causes a gradual weakening of bone density and quality, making them more vulnerable. Over time, this imbalance can lead to porous, brittle bones, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine and wrist. Osteoporosis often progresses without symptoms until a rupture occurs, earning it the nickname “the silent disease.” Talk to your healthcare provider about when to get a bone density test, especially if you’re at risk.

    Chapter 4: Making choices

    In literature, characters often face challenges and have to make life-changing decisions. Likewise, in the quest for good bone health, you have the power to make positive choices. Regular physical activity, including weight-bearing exercises and strength training, can help keep your bones strong and resilient. Also consider your lifestyle choices: avoid excessive caffeine and soft drink consumption, and don’t forget the importance of: good night.

    Chapter 5: Aging gracefully

    As we reach the final chapter of our bone health story, it’s essential to remember that aging is a natural part of life, like the closing words of a beloved book. With proper care and attention, you can age gracefully and maintain good bone health. Please note how menopause and hormonal changes can affect your bone density. Continue to eat well, stay active, and consult your doctor for advice on supplements or medications if necessary.

    Epilogue: The joy of reading

    Just as a well-written book can transport you to different worlds, a healthy body can take you on countless adventures. In the words of Louisa May Alcott, “She loves books too much, and it has changed her brain.” Well, you can never love good bone health more! And if you like books on cassette or podcasts, consider it to coordinate to develop health-related content that you can learn while reading or listening. As we celebrate National Book Month, remember that your bone health story is one you can influence, shape and improve. Let your journey be a page turner full of strength, resilience and a happy ending. After all, the story of your bones is a story worth telling and living to the fullest.

    Recommended reading list

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  • What causes carpal tunnel?  – Bone and joint specialists

    What causes carpal tunnel? – Bone and joint specialists

    Carpal tunnel treatment

    Carpal tunnel, also called carpal tunnel syndrome, is a condition that affects the connective tissue and joints of the wrist. It can cause tingling, numbness, weakness, pain and even swelling. You’ve probably heard of carpal tunnel syndrome and its connection to things like typing or using a computer for too long. However, carpal tunnel syndrome is much more complex than that. Let’s explore the common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome so you understand your carpal tunnel treatment options.

    What causes carpal tunnel?

    To understand why these different things cause carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s best to understand what causes the symptoms to occur. Carpal tunnel occurs when pressure is placed on the median nerve. Pinching or compressing these nerves leads to the symptoms people are familiar with. Irritating or inflaming the surrounding connective tissue causes the tissue to swell. This can compress the median nerve. Basically, the cause of carpal tunnel is anything that irritates the connective tissue surrounding the median nerve. Let’s look at the most common causes of that irritation.

    Sex

    As a woman, you are biologically susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome. This is because the area through which the median nerve passes is much smaller compared to men. This allows irritated tissue to compress the nerve more easily.

    Injury

    Any type of injury, such as a wrist fracture, drastically increases your chance of experiencing carpal tunnel. This is because the connective tissue is probably already inflamed or swollen. You will likely experience carpal tunnel due to a wrist injury, especially if you further irritate the wrist.

    Repetitive wrist movements

    Repetitive wrist movements can place disproportionate pressure and strain on a particular ligament or tendon in your wrist. This leads to irritation for extended periods of time and can compress the median nerve. This is where the stereotype of typing or using a mouse causing carpal tunnel comes from. It is entirely possible to develop carpal tunnel from using a mouse and keyboard for extended periods of time.

    Seek treatment

    Carpal tunnel often goes away on its own over time. However, chronic carpal tunnel may be present if the irritation persists. Fortunately, our staff at the Bone and Joint Specialists can help you with carpal tunnel treatment. Our team of doctors consists of experts in their field who can help you determine the cause of your wrist irritation and treat it at the source. If you are suffering from carpal tunnel, contact Bone and Joint Specialists today at 219-795-3360.

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  • Unlocking the Connection Between Stress and Bone Health: Live Your Life More Powerfully with Dr.  Tricia Pingel + BoneCoach™ – BoneCoach™

    Unlocking the Connection Between Stress and Bone Health: Live Your Life More Powerfully with Dr. Tricia Pingel + BoneCoach™ – BoneCoach™

    Are you one of the 80% of adults suffer from adrenal fatigue?

    Worried about how stress can silently sabotage your bones and contribute to osteoporosis?

    Ready to discover one groundbreaking, cost-free strategy that would revolutionize your bone health?

    Then you shouldn’t miss this episode!

    Come with me as I sit down Dr. Tricia Pingel, a licensed naturopathic doctor known as the Adrenal Whisperer. Delve deep into the mysteries of adrenal gland healthdiscover the surprising ties with stress and osteoporosisand find out how restore your bone strength and revive your vitality.

    Episode timeline

    0:00 – Episode begins

    1:37 – Introduction to Dr. Tricia Pingel

    3:08 – Dr. Pingel’s journey to tackling adrenal fatigue and stress

    5:06 – Identifying adrenal gland problems in men and women aged 50-70+ with osteopenia and osteoporosis

    6:40 – Recommended tests for suspected adrenal gland problems

    8:15 – The link between stress, adrenal glands and bone health

    11:39 – Everyday stressors that affect health

    15:14 – Actionable steps for self-assessment and improvement

    17:54 – The profound impact of intentional breathing on reducing stress, improving bone health and promoting overall well-being

    20:15 – Connection between thyroid and bone health

    24:02 – Dancing for healthier bones and better mental health

    30:05 – Simple ways to return to the present moment

    34:30 – Where to meet Dr. Pingel and how she can help you on your journey to better bone health

    Sources mentioned

    **Show notes @ https://bonecoach.com/drpingel-adrenal-fatigue-bone-health-connection

    Below you will find resources from Dr. Tricia Pingel!

    >> Read more about Dr. here. Tricia on her website!

    >> Connect with Dr. Tricia on Facebook

    >> Follow Dr. Tricia on Instagram

    >> Follow Dr. Tricia on TikTok

    >> Connect with Dr. Tricia on LinkedIn

    What can you do to support your bone health and this podcast?

    1. Press the “Subscribe” button on your respective podcast player (i.e. Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and TuneIn). Never miss an episode that can help improve your bone health.

    2. Leave a review. The more positive ratings and reviews and the more subscribers we have, the more people can find us and get the answers to the questions they need. Thank you! 🙂

    3. Tell a friend about The Bone Coach Podcast or share via text, email or social. Do you know of a Facebook group where people can benefit from this information? Feel free to hit any of the share buttons below.

    About Dr. Tricia Pingel:

    Dr. Pingel, a certified naturopathic doctor, is known as the Adrenal Whisperer. She has dedicated almost 15 years of her career as an adrenal gland and stress expert.

    She helps Rockstar women look and feel great by restoring their adrenal glands without the use of drugs. Her specialty is identifying the cause of health problems and restoring health and youthful energy.

    Since learning that she was one of the 80% of adults suffering from adrenal fatigue, Dr. Pingel passionately taught about the impact that stress has on the adrenal glands. She has helped thousands of people restore their adrenal glands, resulting in the reversal of many other health symptoms, including perimenopause. Her greatest joy is guiding people to return to their happy, vibrant and energetic selves.

    Dr. Pingel has appeared in nearly a dozen television shows, including: The Dr. Ax Show, Ask the Expert with JJ Virgin, Good Morning Arizona, The Arizona Daily Mix with Brad Perry and many others.

    She has contributed to many publications, most notably: Mind Body Green, Prevention Magazine, Yoga Journal, Eat This Not That, MSN.com, Vitamin Shoppe, Health Central, Birdie and Livestrong.

    Dr. Pingel, affectionately known as The Hip Hop Adrenal Doc, can often be found on social media cheering on her two boys at soccer, making healthy vegan recipes in her kitchen, and cuddling her three dogs and cats at home with her husband. Phoenix, Ariz.

    Medical disclaimer

    The information shared above is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or nutritional therapy advice; it does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition; it should not be used as a substitute or substitute for medical advice from physicians and trained medical professionals. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or are currently taking prescription medications, you should discuss any changes in your diet and lifestyle or possible use of nutritional supplements with your doctor. You should not stop prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.



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  • Training your bones – Bone Talk

    Training your bones – Bone Talk

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    Train your bones
    By Rebekah Rotstein, NCPT

    You have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia and told that exercise can help. But what kind of exercise should you do? How do you know you won’t hurt yourself? What if you’ve never exercised before – how do you even get started? Or if you’re already an exercise enthusiast, what else can you do that you may have overlooked before?

    Let’s start by identifying how exercise can benefit your bones. Your bones are living tissue that change thickness, mass and shape with use, just like your muscles. If you wanted to strengthen your muscles, you would use them by pulling objects (like lifting weights) and pushing things (like push-ups). You can strengthen your bones in much the same way.

    Your bones adapt and respond to loads by strengthening and strengthening themselves to be able to bear that same load again in the future. When you resist external forces like gravity or weights, your bones reap the reward. On the other hand, not using your bones results in a weakening of their structure and composition. Ever seen the wrist of someone whose cast has just been removed? The wrist size has generally become smaller compared to the other wrist due to its immobility and lack of use. Similarly, NASA research has shown how the absence of gravity in space, which also limits the ability of muscles to pull on bones, causes reductions in bone mass.

    To know which type of exercise to engage in, you need to understand that bone is built from three sources when it comes to activity:

    1–Weight load

    Every time you stand upright, you are working against gravity and supporting the weight of your body. When you crawl or exercise on the floor and support your body with your hands and wrists, you similarly support your weight through your forearm bones.

    2–Resistance

    Your muscles facilitate movement against additional forces such as weights, bands or pulleys when you exercise. They also contract during daily activities such as carrying objects and moving furniture.

    3–Effect

    Your bones respond to compressive forces and receive further stimuli to become stronger when a greater force is added that increases the gravitational effect. You’re probably familiar with the term “high impact,” which refers to activities like running and jumping that some people find uncomfortable on their joints as they get older. High impact may not be recommended if you have osteoporosis, and especially if you have had a fracture, but it is important for building maximum bone mass in younger individuals. Low impact can be achieved by repeatedly stomping your feet or dropping your heels.

    Knowing which exercises to perform – and even which type of exercise (strength training, Pilates, yoga, HIIT, aerobics, to name a few examples) – depends on your physical capacity, history of physical activity and history of fractures . (If you have had a fracture, you should get permission from your doctor to begin an exercise program.)

    To actually increase bone density through exercise after menopause, you probably need high-intensity exercise (lifting heavy weights with a load of at least 80% of the maximum you can lift in a single repetition, along with a high impact). That assumes you don’t have any comorbidities (other conditions) or safety concerns that could make it contraindicated, and you have access to a gym and a trainer to supervise you.

    You can also aim to maintain the bone density you have, train for strength and power, and absorb impact at lower loads. No matter what, to avoid injuries, maintain good form by mastering basic movements and training for mobility to achieve the necessary range of motion in your joints.

    So when the question arises as to what is the one form of exercise you should be doing for osteoporosis, there is not ONE! The three bone-strengthening elements mentioned above are essential in addition to mobility training, but as the 2014 consensus document ‘Too Fit to Fracture’ pointed out, the best strategy is a multimodal approach that also combines balance and posture training (which we will discuss in this article). a future part of this series.)

    A few important things to keep in mind as you begin your training journey:

    • Be consistent. As with any activity or skill, consistency is key to experiencing results and promoting motivation

    • Keep challenging yourself. Your bones and muscles are both adaptive organs. So to continue to reap the benefits of exercise, you need to continually and gradually make things harder so you don’t plateau.

    • Make it fun. If you find it annoying, you’re more likely to procrastinate and avoid it! The best exercise is the one you are going to do.

    Sometimes getting started is the biggest hurdle you have to overcome. Know that exercise affects more than just your bones and muscles, joints and soft tissues. It is multisystemic and can improve other systems of your body, such as your digestion, your circulation and your cognition. Furthermore, the more physically active you become, the stronger you feel. One of the often overlooked aspects of osteoporosis is the emotional difficulty that patients experience, regardless of whether they have suffered a fracture. Taking charge of your health through exercise can be one of the best actions you can take to transform yourself from a sense of fear and vulnerability to a sense of confidence and capability.

    Stay tuned for the next part of this series demonstrating specific posture training exercises that you can incorporate into your daily life. The smallest change in body position can make a big difference in the experience and effects of your exercise program.

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  • Can a lappiplasty repair my bunion?

    Can a lappiplasty repair my bunion?

    lapiplastyBunions can be a real pain to deal with on your own. The symptoms of a bunion can be very disabling, making it difficult to walk or get from one place to another. The good news is that some treatment options can help you repair your bunion. With the right approach, your bunion problem can be a thing of the past. A lapiplasty is an approach that many people use to treat their bunion problems. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly a lapiplasty is and how it can help you say goodbye to bunion pain.

    Causes of a bunion

    Symptoms of a bunion?

    • Large bump on the outside of the big toe
    • Redness and swelling around the big toe
    • Corns and calluses on the friction site of the big toe and second toe
    • Limited movement of the big toe

    What is a lapiplasty?

    People often have the misconception that bunions can be fixed by just shaving off the bone, thinking it is an overgrowth. In reality, there are deeper issues that are causing the problems you are experiencing. In the past, bunion surgery approached the problem on a two-dimensional plane, while the problem to be addressed was three-dimensional. This is where Lapiplasty comes into play. With LapiplastyⓇ 3D Bunion Correction, instead of doing what traditional bunion surgery does, which is cutting the bone in half and shifting, Lapiplasty rotates the entire spine of the foot to repair the anatomical deformity that causes the bunions to form. By doing this, the chance of your bunions returning is minimal.

    If you suffer from bunions, Bone and Joint Specialists Orthopedic & Spine Center is the right place for you. With 4 locations in Indiana, we offer extensive access to our physicians who can provide you with world-class service. Working with us means you work with the best. Contact us today at 219.795.3360 or visit us online at www.orthopedicdoctors.com to schedule your consultation.

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  • Lemon Garlic Chicken |  GF, DF |  BoneCoach™ Recipes – BoneCoach™

    Lemon Garlic Chicken | GF, DF | BoneCoach™ Recipes – BoneCoach™

    Looking for a weeknight-friendly dinner recipe?

    Try this!

    With just six ingredients, our Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is a one-pot meal that is delicious and easy to prepare.

    Plus, it’s packed with bone-strengthening proteins and essential vitamins and minerals like selenium and phosphorus.

    You’ll find yourself returning to our Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe again and again…

    Try it tonight!

    2B RECIPE Lemon Garlic Chicken 1

    SERVES: 4

    TOTAL TIME: 40 minutes

    Ingredients

    1 whole flat chicken (or 8 chicken thighs with skin and bone)

    2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil

    3 cloves garlic, minced

    2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice

    1/2 teaspoon (2 ml) dried oregano

    1/2 teaspoon (2 ml) sea salt

    Directions

    1) Place the oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano and salt in a large oven dish and mix together. Dip the chicken in the lemon-garlic mixture.

    2) Bake in the oven at 375F for 40 minutes. Let the cooked chicken rest for 10 minutes before enjoying it.

    Recipe created by BoneCoach™ Team Dietitian Amanda Natividad-Li, RD & Chef.

    Medical disclaimer

    The information shared above is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or nutritional therapy advice; it does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition; it should not be used as a substitute or substitute for medical advice from physicians and trained medical professionals. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or are currently taking prescription medications, you should discuss any changes in your diet and lifestyle or possible use of nutritional supplements with your doctor. You should not stop prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.

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  • Clearing up a confusing diagnosis – ACL Strong

    Clearing up a confusing diagnosis – ACL Strong

    Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease in the United States and can cause pain, stiffness, and limitation in daily activities. Unfortunately, many people feel forced to give up their favorite sport or lifestyle as a result of being labeled “osteoarthritis.”

    A diagnosis of ‘osteoarthritis’ can be confusing.

    What does it mean? Does this mean that you cannot cycle, walk, hike or exercise without pain? How should you treat it and what can you do to prevent it from getting worse?

    What is osteoarthritis?

    Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, occurs when the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. The degenerative process, which typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and hands, causes thinning of the cartilage, narrowing of joint spaces and reduced cushioning between the bones. This breakdown process puts more pressure on the sensitive surface of the bones in the joint, causing inflammation, pain, bone spurs and further wear and tear of the joint.

    knee arthrosis

    Being diagnosed with osteoarthritis does NOT mean that you cannot or should not have an active lifestyle. On the contrary, activity can actually improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis and slow or stop its progression. Many people with osteoarthritis lead an active, healthy lifestyle, without restrictions.

    How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

    Osteoarthritis affects more than 32.5 million Americans and is usually diagnosed by physical examination and an X-ray. Based on the X-ray images, doctors will look for a smaller distance between the bones in the joint and for signs of inflammation. They will look at how much cartilage there is in the joint to protect the underlying bone from further wear and tear. They will also look for bone fragments or ‘spurs’ that are sticking into the joint and could cause more pain.

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    X-ray findings should be compared with a physical examination to assess actual loss of range of motion, stiffness, weakness, and activity limitations before determining a treatment plan.

    Did you know that there are people with osteoarthritis who are NOT symptomatic? They have no pain, stiffness, swelling, or disability associated with the condition. In fact, they may not even know they have it!

    Evidence of degenerative joint changes can be seen in young adults to older adults, but the risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age.

    Some of the risk factors that contribute to the development of osteoarthritis include:

    • Age (over 60 years)
    • Genetics
    • Being a woman
    • Being overweight
    • Have a pre-existing knee injury
    • Overuse of the knee or hip joint
    • Muscle weakness around the joint

    Does osteoarthritis always get worse?

    Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that keeps getting worse if nothing is done to reduce pressure and wear on the joint.

    Joint wear and tear that causes inflammation, swelling and stiffness leads to more weakness, further breakdown, more stiffness and more disability. The cycle continues if no change is made to break the cycle.

    Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, it is possible to slow or stop the progression of osteoarthritis through appropriate interventions…and most people don’t realize this!

    Someone with osteoarthritis may experience periods of ‘flare-ups’, where the joint suddenly becomes swollen, stiff and/or painful. There may also be periods when symptoms disappear, range of motion is restored, and the joint feels relatively normal.

    Controlling the “controllable factors” is an important tactic in managing osteoarthritis so that flare-ups don’t become worse than they need to be. Knowing what to do to calm a flare-up is an important step in long-term management and will help you continue doing the activities and sports you love.

    Normal range of motion (ROM) helps spread the forces on the joint; Good STRENGTH helps support the joint; and good MOVEMENT PATTERNS help reduce abnormal forces on the joint. These concepts form the basis of what will SLOW or STOP the worsening of degenerative joint disease.

    Losing weight if you are overweight, strengthening the muscles around the hip and knee, maintaining mobility and flexibility, and controlling inflammation and pain are important strategies to prevent osteoarthritis from worsening.

    Common treatments for osteoarthritis

    Activity

    While it may seem like activity may initially cause more pain and swelling, physical activity has actually been proven to reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with degenerative joint disease. Exercise promotes circulation and can lead to more pain-free days. Of course, you need to make sure you choose the right activity, progress the right way, and listen to your body.

    A great place to start is by improving mobility and flexibility with simple stretching exercises.

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    Heel slides

    Physiotherapy

    Physical therapy has been proven to relieve symptoms, increase activity tolerance and improve the quality of life for people with osteoarthritis using a structured approach to restore range of motion, functional strength and balance.
    If you want to live an active lifestyle, exercise and enjoy the outdoors, ACL STRONG provides an expert training progression to strengthen your legs and core, improve balance and body control, and learn how to benefit your body and lifestyle in the long term. can protect. This is an online program and an excellent option if you want the convenience and freedom of exercising independently at home, while still receiving expert guidance and support.

    Monster Walk zig zag side2
    Skaters 1

    Injectable products

    Your doctor may be willing to try hyaluronic acid which can be injected into the affected arthritic joint. This fluid is similar in makeup to your body’s synovial fluid, which is like oil in your car. An injectable can lubricate affected bone and joint tissue to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis, making you feel more comfortable and delaying the need for surgery.

    Arthroscopy

    Arthroscopic surgery is an option when an orthopedic surgeon is confident that symptoms can be reduced by clearing out the surface tissue in the affected joint. Arthroscopic surgery is performed by placing small incisions in the joint to remove damaged tissue and create a smoother surface. The surgery will facilitate increased blood flow to the joint, which can help ‘restart’ the healing process and reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

    Arthroscopy

    Joint replacement surgery

    In cases where more conservative treatments have failed to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life, joint replacement surgery may become the best option. Replacing the degenerated joint surface with mechanical components can give you the recovery you need to be as active as you want.

    Recovery from joint replacement surgery will involve several months of activity progression and physical therapy. Although the timeline varies for everyone, most patients return to normal activities and exercise, such as walking, biking, golfing, tennis, weight lifting, housework, and yard work. With hard work, dedication and consistency, many can return to their previous sports and activities at a higher level.

    Osteoarthritis should NOT be daunting or intimidating. Receiving a diagnosis of osteoarthritis does not have to be confusing.

    👉 How you deal with your condition is up to you. You CAN lead an active, healthy and sporty lifestyle, with the presence of degenerative joint diseases. Manage it with exercise, nutrition, making good choices and expert support, and you can continue living the lifestyle you choose. 💪

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  • Tips to prevent falls

    Tips to prevent falls

    Follow these steps to help keep falling!

    FPAW2023 SG Doctor TW

    One in four elderly people fall every year, but only half tell their doctor. See how else you can get the most out of your conversations with your doctor. https://bit.ly/FPAW2023-Praat-met-uw-dokter

    FPAW2023 SG Vision TW

    Your vision and hearing play an important role in good balance, which is necessary for daily activities to prevent falls. Discover ways to keep your eyes and ears healthy and prevent falls. https://bit.ly/FPAW2023-Care-for-Your-Vision-Hearing

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    It can feel lonely if you’re afraid of falling, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Start a conversation with your family and friends today about how you can protect yourself. https://bit.ly/FPAW2023-Praat-met-je-familie

    FPAW2023 SG Medication TW

    Using more than one medication increases the chance of side effects, drug interactions, and the risk of falls. Learn ways to make sure your medications don’t increase your risk of falls. https://bit.ly/FPAW2023-Review-Medications-with-Your-Doctor

    FPAW2023 SG Exercise TW

    You may feel unsteady or start to fear falling as you get older. While that may be the case, there are exercise programs that can help improve balance, strength and flexibility. Find out how to stay strong and find an exercise program near you. https://bit.ly/FPAW2023-Find-A-Good-Exercise-Program

    FPAW2023 SG Home TW

    Each year, many older adults fall ill at home due to common household risks. Find out how to keep your home safe. https://bit.ly/FPAW2023-Maak-uw-huis-veilig

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    Do you know your fall risk? Answer 12 simple questions using NCOA’s Falls Free CheckUp to see how you can maintain your independence and stay free. https://bit.ly/Falls-CheckUp

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