Join us in extending a Happy Physician Assistant Week to all of our PAs!

At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates (POA), our physician assistants (PAs) are integral members of our healthcare team, dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and quality of patient care. Collaborating closely with our physicians, our PAs conduct thorough patient assessments, perform diagnostic tests and develop personalized treatment plans. Their expertise in taking medical histories and conducting physical examinations helps ensure that all patients receive comprehensive and attentive care.

Our PAs are vital communicators, providing education, addressing patient concerns, and facilitating continuity of care. This collaborative approach not only improves patient outcomes but also streamlines workflows within our practice, ultimately benefiting both our healthcare team and the patients we serve!

The national drug epidemic remains a serious threat to public health and safety, with devastating consequences for families and communities across the United States. At POA, we are committed to doing our part to promote the well-being of our patients and the larger community. That’s why we are proud to support the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a vital initiative aimed at reducing the misuse of prescription medications and preventing addiction before it starts.

Proper disposal of unused or expired medications prevents accidental misuse and protects our environment by keeping harmful substances out of water systems and local ecosystems. By participating in Drug Take Back Day, you contribute to the fight against drug addiction and help to make our communities safer and healthier places to live.

If you have unused, unneeded medication at home, we urge you to take action today—find a designated Drug Take Back Day location and safely dispose of any medications you no longer need. Together, we can reduce the risks of overdose, prevent drug-related violence, and build a brighter future.

Visit the Take Back Day Website to find a site near you. Every small step makes a big difference!

The following Take Back Day locations are in the closest proximity to our offices:

• Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 640 S Broad St, Trenton, NJ 08611
• Plainsboro Township Police Department 641 Plainsboro Rd, Plainsboro Township, NJ 08536
• Hillsborough Township Police Department 379 S Branch Rd, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
• Robbinsville Township Police Department 1117 US-130, Robbinsville Twp, NJ 08691
• Ewing Township Police Department 2 Jake Garzio Dr, Ewing Township, NJ 08628
• Jamesburg Police Department 225 Gatzmer Ave, Jamesburg, NJ 08831

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the muscles in your calf to your heel bone. It is the largest tendon in your body and is important for activities like walking, running, and jumping because it helps your foot push off the ground. The Achilles tendon is made up of two main muscle groups: the gastrocnemius and the soleus. These muscles work together to help you move and keep your ankle stable. Since the Achilles tendon is used a lot during physical activities, it can get injured or develop problems, such as Achilles tendonitis or ruptures. That’s why it’s important to take care of it and keep it flexible.

Living with Achilles Tendon Pain

Imagine waking up in the morning, swinging your feet out of bed, and feeling a sharp, persistent pain at the back of your ankle. You stand up, but each step feels like a battle, with every move reminding you that something isn’t quite right. Whether you’re an athlete or simply someone going about your regular daily activities, dealing with Achilles tendon pain can severely impact your life. Whether it's climbing stairs to walking short distances, every motion becomes a conscious, painful effort. Over time, the discomfort can worsen, which makes it difficult for you to carry out even the simplest tasks, like getting out of bed or standing for extended periods.

Although achilles tendon injuries range in severity, they are all disruptive. Understanding the causes of issues, symptoms, and treatment options can help you prevent long-term damage and help you manage the pain effectively.

What Are Achilles Tendon Injuries?

The Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body, connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It transmits the force generated by your muscles to your foot and plays an essential role in walking, running, and jumping. You can imagine that the importance of this tendon also makes it vulnerable to a range of injuries due to overuse, improper footwear, and sudden stress.

The most common Achilles tendon injuries include:

• Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon, often caused by repetitive strain or overuse. It is common among runners, athletes, and those who engage in high-impact activities without proper warm-up or technique.
• Achilles Tendon Rupture: A rupture is a partial or complete tear of the tendon, often caused by sudden, forceful movements, such as jumping or pivoting quickly. Ruptures are more severe and typically require medical intervention.
• Achilles Tendonosis: Degeneration of the tendon tissue due to chronic overuse or untreated tendonitis. This condition leads to stiffness and reduced mobility and increases the risk of rupture.

Symptoms: How to Identify Achilles Tendon Issues

Common symptoms include:

Why Does Achilles Tendon Pain Occur?

Achilles tendon pain occurs primarily due to inflammation, degeneration, or tearing of the tendon fibers. These injuries tend to form because of repetitive stress, improper biomechanics, or sudden high-impact movements.

Some causes of Achilles tendon pain:

Preventing Achilles Tendon Injuries

Preventing Achilles tendon injuries requires a combination of good habits and awareness of your body’s limits.

Here are some effective prevention strategies:

• Stretch Regularly: By regularly stretching your calf muscles and Achilles tendon you will help to maintain flexibility. Focus on slow, controlled stretches, especially before and after exercise.
• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthen your calf muscles with exercises such as heel raises and resistance band workouts. Stronger muscles will help support the tendon and reduce the risk of injury.
• Gradual Progression: Gradually increase your workout or training levels to allow your body to adapt. Suddenly increasing the intensity or duration of your physical activities can cause issues, so make sure to avoid those.
• Wear Supportive Footwear: Invest in shoes that provide proper support and cushioning for your feet. This is especially important for athletes and those who spend long periods on their feet.

How to Care for Achilles Tendon Injuries

If you’ve injured your Achilles tendon, it’s crucial to address it immediately to prevent further damage. Here are key steps for caring for Achilles tendon issues:

At-Home Treatments

1. Rest: Limit activities that put a strain on the Achilles tendon. Avoid running, jumping, or engaging in high-impact sports until the pain subsides.
2. Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, multiple times daily, to reduce inflammation and swelling.
3. Compression: Use a compression bandage. This helps to support the tendon and minimize your swelling.
4. Elevation: Elevate your foot whenever possible to reduce swelling.
5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.

What to Avoid

• Sudden Movements: Avoid sudden, jerky movements that can strain the tendon further.
• Prolonged Immobility: While rest is important, prolonged immobility can lead to stiffness. Engage in gentle range-of-motion exercises to keep the tendon flexible.

Exercises for Recovery and Prevention

Incorporating specific exercises can aid in recovery and prevent future injuries:

When to Seek Help from a POA Orthopaedic Surgeon

While at-home care can often alleviate mild Achilles tendon pain, certain symptoms indicate the need for professional intervention:

• Persistent Pain: If the pain doesn’t improve with rest and at-home treatment, it’s time to see an orthopaedic specialist.
• Sudden Injury: If you experience a sudden, sharp pain or hear a popping sound, seek urgent care immediately, as these are signs of an Achilles tendon rupture.
• Inability to Walk: If you’re unable to walk without significant pain or weakness, it’s critical to see a specialist.

What Type of Orthopaedic Surgeon Should You See?

For Achilles tendon issues, you will want to consult with a sports medicine specialist or a foot and ankle specialist. These surgeons have specific expertise in treating tendon injuries and can offer tailored treatment plans based on your condition.

Medical Treatment from an Orthopaedic Surgeon

When you visit a POA orthopaedic surgeon, the treatment plan may include:

• Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises assigned to you to improve flexibility, strength, and mobility.
• Immobilization: Preventing movement by using a cast, brace, or walking boot allows the tendon to heal.
• Surgery: In severe cases of Achilles tendon rupture, surgery may be necessary to repair the torn tendon. The surgeon will reattach the tendon and prescribe a rehabilitation plan for recovery.

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you suspect a rupture or experience intense, sudden pain, don’t wait—seek urgent medical attention. Ruptured tendons require immediate intervention to avoid long-term disability.

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Let POA Help You Out of Pain

Achilles tendon injuries can be debilitating, but with proper care and timely treatment, they are manageable. If you’re dealing with persistent Achilles tendon pain or suspect a rupture, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with one of POA’s highly trained orthopaedic surgeons. Whether you need physical therapy, non-invasive treatments, or surgical intervention, our specialists are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let Achilles tendon pain keep you from living your life—contact POA today to schedule your consultation.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

If you feel a tight, achy feeling behind your knee, it might be a Baker's cyst.

Daily life with a Baker's cyst often feels like an uninvited house guest, quietly making its presence known with discomfort or swelling behind your knee. However, understanding Baker's cyst symptoms and causes can bring you a sense of empowerment and control, time to kick that house guest out. If you have a Baker's cyst, you may notice the area feeling tight or achy, particularly after standing or walking long. Simple activities like climbing stairs, kneeling, or even fully extending your leg might become challenging. As an orthopaedic surgeon at the forefront of musculoskeletal care, I've seen how disruptive Baker's cysts can be to daily life. It's not just the physical discomfort—there's also the lingering uncertainty about what this swelling means and how to manage it.

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What is a Baker's Cyst?

A Baker's cyst (known as a popliteal cyst) is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind your knee. It develops when excess joint fluid—known as synovial fluid—accumulates in the popliteal bursa; this small sac serves to help cushion the knee joint. This accumulation causes swelling and, in some cases, discomfort.

The Baker's cyst is usually a symptom of an underlying issue, such as arthritis or a meniscus tear. While the cyst can vary in size, it can become large enough to restrict knee movement and cause significant pain.

What are Baker's Cyst Symptoms?

Bakers cyst symptoms can vary from person to person. Many individuals experience no symptoms at all, while others may notice:

In rare cases, the cyst can rupture, causing a sharp pain with swelling in your lower leg that mimics the symptoms of a blood clot; this can be a medical emergency and should be addressed immediately. Additional symptoms of a ruptured Baker's cyst may include severe pain, sudden swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

Where Do Bakers Cysts Form, and Why?

Baker's cysts form in the popliteal space at the back of the knee joint. This space contains the popliteal bursa, which is prone to filling with excess synovial fluid under certain conditions. When the knee experiences inflammation due to arthritis, injury, or other joint issues, the body naturally produces more fluid to cushion the joint. However, when there is too much fluid, it can leak into the bursa and form a cyst.

The location behind the knee makes this area particularly vulnerable to fluid buildup because of its anatomy and function in movement, especially when the knee joint is stressed or overused.

What Causes a Baker's Cyst?

Several underlying conditions can lead to the formation of a Baker's cyst:

Is There a Way to Prevent a Baker's Cyst?

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent a Baker's cyst, addressing the underlying causes can reduce the risk of development.

• Proper management of arthritis
• Regular low-impact exercises
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the stress imposed on your knees
• Protecting your knees from injury with proper gear and technique during physical activities can also help minimize the chances of developing a cyst.

How to Care for a Baker's Cyst Once You Have One

Once you've been diagnosed with a Baker's cyst, there are several steps you can take to manage the condition and reduce discomfort:

What Not to Do When You Have a Baker's Cyst

What not to do when you have a Baker's cyst is just as important as understanding what you should do.

When to Seek Help from POA's Orthopaedic Surgeons

If your Baker's cyst persists despite home treatment, causes significant discomfort, or interferes with your daily activities, it's time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon. Seeking professional care can provide reassurance and confidence in your decision-making. At POA, our team of expert orthopaedic surgeons specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like Baker's cysts and any potential underlying causes like arthritis or meniscus tears.

What Type of Orthopaedic Specialist Should You See?

If you are looking for a doctor to help with a Baker's cyst, you'll want to see an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee conditions. At POA, our knee specialists are highly experienced in managing the symptoms and root causes of Baker's cysts, ensuring you receive personalized, comprehensive care.

What Does Treatment Look Like from a Medical Standpoint?

Treatment for a Baker's cyst often begins conservatively. In many cases, if the underlying condition causing the cyst is treated, the cyst itself will improve. Here's what medical treatment might involve:

1. Aspiration: For aspiration of the cyst, your orthopaedic surgeon uses a needle to drain the excess fluid from the cyst, which can provide temporary relief from swelling and discomfort.
2. Corticosteroid Injections: These anti-inflammatory injections can help reduce swelling and manage pain associated with the cyst.
3. Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can help improve joint function, reduce fluid buildup, and manage pain.
4. Surgery: In cases where the cyst is large, recurrent, or caused by an underlying structural issue, surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst or repair the damaged joint tissue.

Whether you need imaging, joint aspiration, or surgical intervention, our surgeons have the expertise to guide you through the best treatment options.

When to Seek Urgent Care

While Baker's cysts are rarely life-threatening, there are certain instances where we recommend seeking urgent care. If your cyst ruptures, you may experience severe pain, swelling, and bruising in your lower leg; this can be mistaken for a blood clot. If you experience this, immediately seeking medical attention is crucial to rule out the possibility of a more serious condition such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

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If You're Living With a Baker's Cyst

Living with a Baker's cyst can be frustrating, but with the proper care and treatment, it can be entirely manageable. Understanding the condition, starting to address the root causes, and seeking the expertise of an orthopaedic surgeon can make a world of difference.

If you're experiencing Baker's cyst symptoms, don't let the pain or swelling limit your daily life. The knee specialists at POA are here to provide comprehensive, personalized care and guide you through every step of your treatment plan.

Schedule an appointment today with one of POA's expert orthopaedic surgeons and take the first step toward relief!

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Does a Baker's Cyst Have Anything to do With Being a Baker?

A Baker’s cyst is not named after bakers or anything related to baking! Instead, it’s named after the British surgeon William Morrant Baker, who first described the condition in the late 1800s. The cyst itself is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind the knee, often due to issues like arthritis or a meniscus tear. While it might sound like something that might happen to a baker, the name is purely a nod to the doctor’s contributions to understanding this knee issue. So, if you ever hear someone mention a Baker’s cyst, remember it's all about medical history and not about pastry!

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This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

What is Bursitis, and what does it feel like?

Bursitis can feel like a sharp, aching pain in your joints, making even simple movements tough. If you're dealing with swelling, stiffness, and discomfort, it could be Bursitis. Bursitis is a condition you can develop where the small, fluid-filled sacs known as bursae become inflamed. Bursae are located throughout your body, acting as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles near the joints. Their main role is to reduce friction during movement, ensuring smooth and painless motion. When these sacs become irritated and inflamed, it leads to Bursitis, a painful condition that can significantly interfere with daily activities.

Bursitis can affect many joints, especially those that perform repetitive movements. While Bursitis is often associated with older adults, it can occur at any age, especially in individuals who engage in repetitive tasks or high-impact activities.

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Where Does Bursitis Occur?

Bursitis can develop in several areas of the body. The joints most commonly affected include:

Symptoms of Bursitis

The symptoms of Bursitis can vary based on its location, but the most common signs include:

What Causes Bursitis?

Several factors can lead to Bursitis, with the primary causes including:

When to See a Doctor for Bursitis

While many cases of Bursitis can be managed at home, it's important to consult a doctor if:

• The pain is severe and doesn't improve with home treatments.
• There is excessive swelling or redness in the joint.
• You have a fever or other signs of infection, such as warmth or pus near the bursa.
• You experience a significant reduction in joint mobility.

Treatments for Bursitis

Bursitis can typically be managed with non-invasive treatments. Here's a breakdown of the most common methods:

Rest: Resting the affected area is essential to allow the inflammation to subside. Avoid the activities that triggered the condition, especially repetitive movements.

Ice: Applying ice packs to the area in 15-20 minute intervals multiple times a day can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate your pain, especially in the early days of the condition.

Over-the-Counter Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help control pain and reduce swelling.

Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs. This typically includes exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint which helps to improve flexibility and prevent future occurrences.

Steroid Injections: In cases of severe or persistent pain, a corticosteroid injection directly into the bursa can provide quick relief. These injections reduce inflammation and may alleviate symptoms for several months.

Aspiration: In cases of severe swelling, fluid may be drained from the bursa through a procedure called aspiration. This can reduce pressure and provide relief from pain.

Surgery: In rare cases, when conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to remove the inflamed bursa. Surgical removal of the bursa typically resolves the issue and is followed by physical therapy to restore full function to the joint.

Home Care for Bursitis: How to Heal Hip Bursitis and Other Forms at Home

Many cases of Bursitis, particularly mild ones, can be treated effectively at home. Here's how to manage it:

Rest the Affected Joint: Stop any activity that may have caused the condition. Rest allows the inflammation to calm down and prevents further damage.

Ice the Area: Apply ice to the affected joint for 15-20 minutes every few hours during the first 48 hours. Ice helps reduce swelling and numbs the pain.

Use Compression and Elevation: Wrapping the joint with an elastic bandage can help control swelling. Elevating the joint can promote blood flow and reduce swelling, especially in the knees and ankles.

Perform Gentle Stretches: Once the pain has subsided, gentle stretching can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Be cautious and avoid overextending the joint.

Preventing Bursitis

Preventing Bursitis involves taking steps to reduce stress on the joints and prevent inflammation. Some helpful strategies include:

Is it Bursitis or Arthritis?

To distinguish between bursitis and arthritis, it's important to look at the specific symptoms and areas affected:

In short, bursitis tends to be acute, focused on a specific joint with movement-triggered pain, while arthritis is typically chronic, affecting joint function and movement over time. If in doubt, an orthopedic specialist can help provide a diagnosis through physical exams and imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.

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This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

Our Ewing location has moved to Exit 72 and is located at 200 Charles Ewing Blvd, suite #170. You can find hte new address here (Click Here) Our first day serving the new Ewing orthopaedic office will be on Sept 16th, 2024!

Princeton Orthopaedic Associates Ewing office is located at:

      Princeton Orthopaedic Associates
      Orthopedics and Physical Therapy
      200 Charles Ewing Blvd, Suite #170
      Ewing Township, New Jersey 08628

Serving communities like Ewing Township with extraordinary orthopaedic care is one of our core values.  We live in the community, so serving our community is part of our DNA. Princeton Orthopaedic Associates is committed to providing excellence to every patient we see. We do this with extraordinary talent, tools, and techniques. Our patients deserve the very best, and we constantly strive to exceed expectations and give excellent outcomes.

If you're experiencing pain in the front of your lower leg, especially after running or engaging in high-impact activities, you could be dealing with shin splints. Shin splints affect many athletes, hikers, and fitness enthusiasts, causing discomfort and sometimes even limiting physical activity. If you're struggling with shin pain, you're not alone. But what are shin splints? Let's take a look at shin splints, what causes them, and how to recognize the symptoms and prevent them in the future.

What Are Shin Splints?

Shin splints, formally known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), refer to the pain felt along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia). This condition happens when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the tibia become overworked due to repetitive stress. Usually, shin splints occur in runners, but anyone participating in physical activities like hiking, basketball, or dance can develop this type of leg pain.

Shin Splints Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of shin splints is key to getting the right treatment.

The most common symptoms include:

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to take steps to reduce the pain and prevent further damage.

What Causes Shin Splints?

The primary cause of shin splints is repetitive stress to the lower leg. This stress can lead to inflammation of the muscles and tendons surrounding the shinbone, causing pain.

Some of the most common causes of shin splints include:

Understanding the causes of your shin splints is important to help you prevent future occurrences.

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Shin Splints Treatment

How to Care for Shin Splints at Home

If you're wondering how to get rid of shin splints, the good news is that in most cases they can be treated at home with simple home remedies and changes to your workout routine.

Here are ways to care for shin splints at home:

How to Prevent Shin Splints

Preventing shin splints is crucial to avoiding recurrent pain.

Here are some strategies to keep your shin splints at bay:

Dealing with Shin Splints: When to See a Specialist

If your shin splints aren't improving with rest and home treatment, or if the pain becomes severe, it may be time to see a sports medicine specialist. A sports med doctor can help determine if your shin splints are caused by an underlying issue like a stress fracture, or they may suggest more advanced treatment options.

Here are signs you should see a sports medicine doctor:

• Pain persists despite rest and home care.
• You experience severe pain even when not exercising.
• Swelling in the shin area is increasing.
• There's concern about a potential stress fracture.

Sports medicine specialists can perform imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to rule out more serious injuries. They may also recommend other treatments such as physical therapy to help you strengthen the muscles around your shins, custom orthotics to correct any biomechanical issues, or even gait analysis to improve your running form.

Advanced Treatment Options for Shin Splints

If basic treatments aren't effective, your specialist may suggest advanced interventions. These may include:

• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting your shins and improve your flexibility.
• Custom orthotics: If flat feet or high arches are contributing to your shin splints, custom shoe inserts can provide the support you need.

Long-Term Treatment and Prevention

Once you've recovered from shin splints, it's important to make long-term adjustments to avoid future injuries. Follow these tips:

• Stick to a well-rounded workout routine: To help give our legs a break from high-impact activities you can ncorporate low-impact exercises like cycling or swimming into your routine.
• Continue strengthening and stretching: Regularly strengthening the muscles in your legs and stretching your calves and Achilles tendons can reduce stress on your shins.
• Cross-train: Mix up your workouts with different types of exercise to avoid overloading your shins with repetitive impact.

Shin Splints Don't Have to Hold You Back

Shin splints can definitely be painful and frustrating especially if you're in the middle of training, but with the right treatment and preventative strategies, you can recover and get back to your favorite activities. Remember, rest is key to healing, and making gradual changes, instead of sudden, to your workout routine can help you avoid shin splints in the future. If your symptoms persist, don't hesitate to seek help from a sports medicine specialist, who can provide a tailored treatment plan to get you back on track.

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This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

Understanding Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty: What You Need to Know

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a hip fracture or are considering treatment options, it’s important to understand the various surgical procedures available. One such option is bipolar hemiarthroplasty, a specialized type of hip surgery designed to address specific issues with the hip joint.

Hip Fractures

What is a Hip Fracture?

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What Is Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty?

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat hip fractures, particularly when the head of the femur is damaged. The term "hemiarthroplasty" refers to replacing half of the hip joint with a prosthetic. In the case of bipolar hemiarthroplasty, the procedure involves replacing the damaged femoral head with a prosthetic component with a two-part design: an inner head and an outer cup. This design allows the head to swivel within the outer cup, which helps reduce wear and tear on the new joint.

This type of surgery benefits patients with arthritis in the remaining hip joint or who may have had previous fractures. The bipolar design provides greater stability and lowers the risk of complications, such as the prosthetic protruding into the acetabulum (the socket part of the hip joint).

What to Expect During Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty

During bipolar hemiarthroplasty, the damaged femoral head and neck are removed. A prosthetic ball is then implanted in its place, secured with either cement or acrylic bone cement. The goal of the surgery is to restore hip function and reduce pain. After the procedure, physical therapy is crucial to help you regain movement and strength in the joint.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

How long does it take to recover from a Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty?

Recovering from hip replacement surgery can be a long and challenging process, and there's no easy way through it. After any major surgery, the idea for most patients is complete relaxation and ongoing therapy until they are completely healed.

For added comfort, keep a pillow between your knees any time you are lying down. If you are lying on your back, the pillow should rest under the affected leg and on top of the other leg. This will help you turn onto your side without twisting at the hips.

Recovery from bipolar hemiarthroplasty involves several stages:

Immediate Post-Surgery

You will start physical therapy as soon as you are able, often the day after surgery. This therapy focuses on helping you move without dislocating your new hip joint and includes exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip.

Precautions

To avoid complications and ensure proper healing, you will need to follow these guidelines:

• Avoid twisting movements at the hips.
• Keep your shoulders, hips, knees, and feet aligned and facing forward.
• Do not cross your affected leg over the midline of your body.
• Use a pillow between your knees while lying down to prevent crossing your legs.
• After a bipolar hemiarthroplasty, you will want to be very careful as you get in or out of bed or a car. Imagine a line that goes down the middle of your body, and make sure your leg does not cross it until you are fully healed.

Ongoing Care

You will want to make sure you continue with physical therapy and adhere to any additional precautions advised by your surgeon. Recovery can be gradual, but many patients achieve effective and lasting results from this surgery.

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty can be an effective solution for managing severe hip fractures, offering pain relief and improved joint function. If you’re considering this procedure or need more information, reach out to schedule with one of our specialists to discuss whether it’s the right option for your situation. Proper education about the surgery and recovery process can help you prepare for a smoother transition back to your daily activities.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

After a long day of typing away at your desk, you finally sit down to relax. As you unwind, you start noticing a twitching in your thumb that you can't control. The tiny, repetitive jerks are persistent and a bit unsettling, making you wonder if something from your busy day is catching up with you and causing this issue.

What Is Thumb Twitching?

Thumb twitching, also known as thumb fasciculation, is an involuntary movement of the thumb that can be subtle or pronounced. This twitching is usually harmless but can be bothersome and cause concern. The thumb may twitch or jerk sporadically, often without any accompanying pain or discomfort.

Symptoms Associated with Thumb Twitching

The primary symptom of thumb twitching is the involuntary movement of the thumb. Other associated symptoms might include:

Why is My Thumb Twitching?

Your thumb twitching can arise from multiple factors, at various times, and under different conditions.

Here's when you might experience thumb twitching:

Recognizing when and under what conditions thumb twitching occurs can help identify potential triggers and contribute to effective management and treatment strategies.

How to Treat Thumb Twitching

In many cases, thumb twitching resolves on its own without the need for medical intervention. However, there are several strategies to alleviate and manage the condition:

Meet our Hand & Wrist Experts

Learn more about our hand and wrist experts on our Hand and Wrist Speciality Page or watch the videos below!

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If thumb twitching is persistent, worsening, or associated with other symptoms like pain, weakness, or difficulty moving the thumb, it's advisable to seek medical attention. An orthopedic specialist at POA can help diagnose underlying conditions that may be contributing to the twitching and provide appropriate treatment.

When to Seek Immediate Help

• Severe Symptoms: If you experience severe pain, loss of function, or other neurological symptoms (like significant weakness, numbness, or changes in sensation), seek immediate medical attention. Severe symptoms like this could indicate a more serious underlying condition.

• Progressive Changes: If the twitching worsens or you notice other concerning symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional promptly.

Related Hand and Finger Issues

Thumb twitching can sometimes be related to other hand or finger issues, including:

Other Helpful Tips for Your Thumb Twitching

Monitoring and Documentation

Keep a Journal

Documenting when the twitching occurs, its duration and any associated activities or triggers can help identify patterns and potential causes. Sharing this information at an appointment with an orthopaedic hand specialist can be helpful in diagnosing and treating the condition.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Alternative Therapies

POA's Hand Specialists are Here for You

Thumb twitching is usually benign and temporary. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and triggers can help you effectively manage and alleviate the problem. If you have concerns or the twitching is persistent, seeking advice from an orthopedic specialist at POA can provide clarity and ensure appropriate care. Remember, caring for your hands and fingers is essential for overall well-being and quality of life.

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

A bone lesion is a growth anomaly in bone tissue that replaces healthy bone with abnormal tissue. These anomalies can range from benign (non-cancerous) to malignant (cancerous) and may vary significantly in how they affect the body. Read more to help you understand bone lesions, their different types, symptoms, and treatment options.

What is a Bone Lesion?

A bone lesion is any condition that causes abnormal growth in bone tissue, replacing healthy bone. These growths can be benign, meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body, or malignant, meaning they can spread and cause further health issues.

Symptoms of a Bone Lesion

Types of Bone Lesions

Where Does a Bone Lesion Develop?

Bone lesions can develop in various parts of the body. Here's a more detailed look at some common locations and the potential underlying causes:

Bone lesions can vary in their nature and severity, ranging from benign (non-cancerous) conditions that may not require treatment to malignant (cancerous) lesions that need aggressive intervention. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI, along with biopsy, are essential tools for determining the nature of a bone lesion and guiding appropriate treatment.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent bone pain, noticeable swelling, or fractures without significant trauma, it's essential to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for benign and malignant bone lesions to prevent further complications.

Diagnosing a Bone Lesion

Bone Lesion Treatment

A Benign Bone Lesion

Most benign bone lesions do not require treatment and are monitored for changes over time. However, if a benign lesion becomes locally aggressive, surgical removal may be necessary to prevent further damage.

A Malignant Bone Lesion

Malignant bone lesions always require treatment. Treatment options include:

• Surgery: Removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue.
• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Use of high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.

Understanding bone lesions is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Whether benign or malignant, a bone lesion can significantly impact your health and quality of life. If you suspect you have a bone lesion, seek medical advice promptly for diagnosis and appropriate management.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, please contact us today. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for all your orthopedic needs.