
Neck and back pain are closely interconnected due to the continuous structure of the spine and the shared nervous system. The spine extends from the base of the skull (forming the neck or the cervical spine) down to the lower back (the lumbar spine). Both regions share common functions and mechanisms, such as support, movement, and spinal cord protection.

Neck and Back Pain are often related in the following ways:
Referred pain (read more), or referring pain, is a scenario where discomfort is felt away from its actual source due to the interconnectedness of nerve pathways. A problem in the neck may cause pain in the back and vice versa.
A poor posture for a long time can cause muscle strain in your neck and back. Bad posture can lead to ongoing discomfort in those areas.
Conditions such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease can affect multiple spine sections, leading to neck and back pain.
A traumatic event or injury can simultaneously impact multiple spinal regions, leading to neck and back pain.
Compression or irritation of nerves in one part of the spine can cause pain or symptoms in another part. For example, a herniated disc in the neck might result in pain radiating down to the back.
Furthermore, pain signals from the neck or back can be transmitted through the same nerve pathways, often leading to 'referred pain,' where discomfort is felt in a different area from its source. Thus, a problem in the neck can cause symptoms in the back and vice versa. For instance, poor posture can strain muscles in both regions over time, leading to chronic pain. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.



Living with relentless neck or shoulder pain can drastically disrupt your everyday life. Understanding the source of your pain can often be a challenge, given the intricate connection between the neck and shoulder via shared nerve pathways. This relationship can result in 'referred pain,' a scenario where the discomfort is felt away from its actual source.
Common causes of neck pain can be:
Deciphering the Causes of Shoulder Pain Quite often, shoulder pain is a result of an injury to the rotator cuff, a unit of muscles and tendons that stabilizes the shoulder joint. Damage to this area compels other muscles to compensate, which may strain them and result in pain spreading from the shoulder to the neck.
Key symptoms of a rotator cuff tear encompass:
Other causes of shoulder pain can include:

The first step in addressing neck or shoulder pain involves obtaining an accurate diagnosis from a specialist. If not treated properly, Ignoring early-stage symptoms can exacerbate pain or permanent nerve damage.
We understand how chronic neck and back pain can significantly disrupt your daily activities, making life challenging. Our team of skilled Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Specialists are here to support you, providing expert care in a compassionate, professional, and understanding environment. We pride ourselves on providing expert medical care in a professional, understanding, and empathetic environment, with numerous locations throughout New Jersey.

Please contact us! We'd love to help.
If you have neck or back pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
You're not alone in this journey - if you're experiencing any discomfort in your neck or back, we invite you to contact us today. We're committed to helping you regain the quality of life you deserve.

Shoulder discomfort is a prevalent issue, especially as we age or engage in activities that strain our joints. Among the potential culprits is the rotator cuff—a group of muscles and tendons crucial for shoulder mobility and stability. Let's explore what the rotator cuff is, its location, functions, and, most importantly, the symptoms of a torn rotator cuff.






A rotator cuff isn't a fancy gym gadget but a group of four muscles and tendons forming a crucial "cuff" around the shoulder joint. These muscles—the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis—facilitate arm movements, allowing us to reach overhead, rotate our arms, and perform everyday tasks.
Imagine the shoulder as a ball-and-socket joint where the upper arm bone's head fits into a shallow socket in the shoulder blade. The rotator cuff envelops this joint, ensuring stability and smooth movement.
This dynamic team player stabilizes the shoulder joint, assists in arm movement, and maintains joint integrity. Essentially, it's the unsung hero behind activities like throwing a ball, swinging a racket, or lifting groceries.



To recognize if your rotator cuff is signaling distress, watch out for these symptoms:
Ignoring these symptoms may lead to more significant problems. If you're experiencing persistent shoulder pain or noticing any of the symptoms mentioned, consider visiting an orthopedic specialist. Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve your chances of a full recovery.

Please contact us! We'd love to help.
If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
Your shoulders deserve attention. Understanding the symptoms of a torn rotator cuff empowers you to take charge of your shoulder health. Listen to your body, don't ignore those aches, and consult a medical professional for guidance. Our dedicated specialists are here to help; your shoulders will thank you!
Elbow bursitis is a condition that can cause discomfort and limited mobility in the elbow joint. Below is a guide to help you understand this condition, its symptoms, when to seek help from an orthopaedic specialist, potential causes, and available treatment options.



Elbow bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small sac filled with fluid that cushions the bones, tendons, and muscles near the joint. In the case of the elbow, the bursa is located at the tip.


It's advisable to consult with an orthopaedic specialist if:

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If you think you may have elbow bursitis, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
Elbow bursitis is a manageable condition, and seeking timely medical advice can significantly impact the recovery process. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps toward a full recovery and minimize the risk of recurrence. If you experience persistent elbow pain or swelling, consulting with an orthopaedic specialist is crucial for personalized and effective care.
We've all been there - you're trying to stay fit, but sometimes your body protests with aches, sprains, and soreness. While these are common, there's a more serious issue to watch out for muscle tears, also known as strains. Tears and strains can happen to anyone, not just elite athletes or exercise enthusiasts. Whether you're overexerting yourself during workouts, not warming up properly, or simply having an accident, muscle tears are a possibility for all of us. In this article, we'll break down what you need to know about muscle tears and, most importantly, how to treat them if they happen to you.

A torn muscle can occur when your muscle is stretched or strained beyond its limits. This can result from:
While any muscle can be affected, muscle tears are most common in the neck, shoulder, lower back, and hamstring.
These tears come in different levels of severity: mild, which affects about 5% of the muscle's fibers; moderate, with up to 25%-30% damage, often accompanied by pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion; and severe, which is an actual tear in the muscle, causing extensive swelling.
When you tear a muscle, you'll know it right away. Expect pain, soreness, spasms, and swelling in the affected area. Depending on the severity, you may have difficulty moving the affected area, or it may even become immobile. You might also notice swelling, bruising, discoloration, and a "knotted up" feeling or stiffness. In cases of overuse, symptoms might take a while to become noticeable. However, if the strain or tear is acute and severe, like from an accident, seek immediate medical attention. Your orthopedist might order an MRI or X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Muscle Tear Symptom Summary:
Muscle tears range from minor to severe. We always recommend seeking an evaluation so you can set off down the best route of recovery.
For minor strains or tears, the R.I.C.E. method can be your best friend.

Your orthopedist may also suggest NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to reduce swelling. Moderate muscle strains or tears can follow a similar treatment plan, but it may take longer. In some cases, physical therapy might be necessary.
Severe tears that require surgery can take months or even longer to heal. In these situations, a nifty rule is: Do no H.A.R.M. - this means avoid:
These activities can exacerbate bleeding and swelling in the muscle tear.
The good news is that, in most cases, you can prevent muscle tears. Proper warm-up techniques, using the correct form during exercise, and respecting your body's limits are crucial. There's no need to push your body to extremes; pain is not a sign of progress but rather a warning that injury is looming. Listen to your body and understand its signals. This is the best way to avoid injury and ensure long-term peak performance.

Tips for preventing muscle strains and muscle tears:

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If you are suffering from muscle pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
When you're on the road to recovery from a muscle injury, the right treatment plan is crucial. If You're Dealing with a torn muscle or bad strain, don't wait! Princeton Orthopaedic Associates' experienced orthopedic doctors can help you with muscle tears and all types of orthopedic injuries. Don't take unnecessary risks that could prolong your recovery; you can benefit from our doctors' decades of combined experience to receive personalized care and get back on your feet. Don't let an injury like a muscle tear hold you back.
In the world of sports medicine, Princeton Orthopaedic Associates, with its team of sports medicine specialists, is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the best care possible to stay at the top of your game. With eight conveniently located facilities, our orthopaedic practice is your go-to destination for comprehensive sports medicine solutions.
Sports medicine is a multifaceted field focused on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and conditions associated with physical activity. Whether you're an elite athlete or a weekend enthusiast, sports medicine specialists play a crucial role in keeping you in prime condition. At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates, we take pride in our expert team who excel in delivering specialized care for a wide range of sports-related issues.
It's common for athletes to experience sprains (ligament injuries) and strains (muscle injuries). Our sports medicine specialists are skilled in diagnosing the severity of these injuries and providing appropriate treatment, which may include rest, physical therapy, or even surgical intervention.
Broken bones and joint dislocations can sideline even the most dedicated athletes. Our team of sports medicine doctors can expertly assess these injuries, providing surgical intervention when necessary and guiding the recovery process.

Athletes often face overuse injuries, such as stress fractures or tendonitis. These conditions require a delicate balance of rest, physical therapy, and ergonomic adjustments. Our specialists develop personalized treatment plans to promote a full recovery.
One of the most prevalent and disruptive injuries in sports is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. This injury often requires immediate attention and specialized treatment. Our sports medicine specialists are well-versed in the diagnosis and management of ACL tears, offering both surgical and non-surgical options to restore stability and agility.
Hamstring injuries can be debilitating for athletes. These issues can range from minor strains to more severe tears. Our team of sports medicine doctors at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates is skilled in assessing the extent of hamstring injuries and formulating customized treatment plans, which may include physical therapy, rest, or, in certain cases, surgical intervention.
Meniscus tears are a common injury among athletes, affecting the cartilage in the knee joint. Our sports medicine specialists are adept at diagnosing and treating meniscus tears, utilizing both arthroscopic procedures and non-surgical interventions to restore knee health.
With our eight convenient locations, POA offers you easy access to leading sports medicine specialists in New Jersey. We understand the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to sports medicine, which is why our team collaborates with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
What sets us apart is our commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements. Our sports medicine specialists are trained in the latest surgical techniques and non-invasive treatments, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care. Our sports medicine doctors work with individuals to maximize function and minimize disability and time away from sports, work, or school. That means our patients can get back to doing what they love to do — faster.

We are delighted to introduce the newest addition to our esteemed medical team, Dr. Sedhom, a dedicated expert in Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Interventional Pain Management. Dr. Sedhom's impressive background and commitment to patient well-being make her a valuable asset to our practice. If you're seeking compassionate care and effective pain management solutions, Dr. Sedhom is here to help.
Dr. Sedhom's journey to becoming a leading specialist began with her academic prowess. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New York University, a testament to her dedication to understanding the complexities of patient care on both physical and psychological levels.
She continued her educational journey at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she earned her DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree. Her commitment to advancing her medical knowledge led her to a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency at the renowned Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. During her time at Mount Sinai, Dr. Sedhom served as the Chief Resident for the Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performances, showcasing her leadership and dedication to her field.





To further refine her skills and expertise, Dr. Sedhom completed an Interventional Pain Management Fellowship at Northwell/Hofstra School of Medicine. This specialized training equips her with advanced techniques and strategies for effectively managing and alleviating pain, ensuring that her patients receive the best possible care.

Dr. Sedhom's commitment to excellence extends to her contributions to the medical field. She has multiple peer-reviewed publications and presentations, reflecting her dedication to advancing the knowledge and practice of Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Pain Management.
Dr. Sedhom is affiliated with prestigious medical organizations, including the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The New York Society of Interventional Pain Physicians, and the North American Neuromodulation Society.

If you're seeking compassionate care and effective pain management solutions, Dr. Sedhom is here to provide you with exceptional treatment. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, rehabilitation needs, or a desire for enhanced physical well-being, Dr. Sedhom's expertise can help you on your path to relief and recovery.
You can learn more about Dr. Sedhom here. Don't hesitate to contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Sedhom. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being.

A huge welcome to another exciting addition to our team, Dr. Haskel, a highly specialized expert in sports medicine and orthopaedics. Dr. Haskel's impressive background and dedication to patient care make him an invaluable asset to our practice. Whether you're an athlete or someone dealing with joint injuries, fractures, sprains, or strains, Dr. Haskel is here to provide you with exceptional care.
Born and raised in Morristown, NJ, Dr. Haskel has deep roots in our community. His specialization in sports medicine equips him with the knowledge and skills to address a wide range of injuries, particularly those involving the shoulder, elbow, and knee joints. His expertise extends to fractures, sprains, strains, and more, ensuring comprehensive care for all patients.





Dr. Haskel's journey to becoming a renowned orthopaedic surgeon began with his undergraduate education at Duke University, where he was a dedicated member of the Duke Men’s Crew Team. He then pursued his medical degree at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, solidifying his passion for healthcare.
His commitment to excellence led him to complete his orthopaedic surgery residency at the prestigious NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital in New York City. Notably, he was elected by his peers and faculty to serve as an Executive Chief Resident in his final year of training.

Following his residency, Dr. Haskel sought further refinement of his skills through additional training at the renowned Steadman Clinic and Steadman-Philippon Research Institute in Vail, CO. His dedication to advancing orthopaedic knowledge is underscored by his authorship of over 30 peer-reviewed research papers and book chapters. His research contributions have been presented at national and international meetings, reflecting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of orthopaedic care.
Dr. Haskel's expertise extends beyond the clinic. He has proudly served as a physician for Team USA and the US Ski and Snowboard Teams, offering medical coverage for events ranging from Colorado to Switzerland. Today, he continues to actively support the US Olympic Ski and Snowboard teams.

Dr. Haskel is here to provide you with exceptional care, whether you're a professional athlete or an individual seeking top-tier orthopaedic treatment. If you're looking for specialized care, innovative solutions, and a compassionate approach to your orthopaedic needs, Dr. Haskel is your partner in recovery.
You can learn more about Dr. Haskel here. Don't hesitate to contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Haskel. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal health and recovery.
We are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our team of podiatrists, Dr. Levi, a highly skilled specialist in foot and ankle care. Dr. Levi brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a strong commitment to patient well-being, making her an invaluable asset to our practice. Whether you're experiencing foot and ankle issues or seeking expert guidance, Dr. Levi is here to provide you with exceptional care.

Dr. Levi's journey to becoming a renowned podiatric physician began with her undergraduate education at Rutgers University. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to healthcare led her to Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, where she earned her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree in 2019.
To further hone her skills and expertise, Dr. Levi completed an intensive four-year surgical residency program in foot and ankle surgery at Temple University Hospital, a level-1 trauma center known for its commitment to excellence. Her dedication and exceptional performance during her residency were recognized as she was voted chief resident by her peers.
During her residency training, Dr. Levi had the privilege of serving as part of Temple's Limb Salvage team, where she played a vital role in preserving patients' limbs and improving their quality of life. She also had the honor of rotating through the prestigious Rubin Institute of Advanced Orthopedics in Baltimore, MD, gaining exposure to a wide variety of rare foot and ankle pathologies.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Levi obtained an associate professorship at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. This role allowed her to give back to student and resident education, reflecting her belief that community engagement and education are at the core of being a physician.

Dr. Levi is dedicated to providing compassionate care and innovative solutions to address your foot and ankle concerns. Whether you're dealing with common podiatric issues, complex pathologies, or simply seeking guidance on maintaining optimal foot and ankle health, Dr. Levi's expertise is at your service.
You can learn more about Dr. Levi here. Don't hesitate to contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Levi. We look forward to helping you achieve better foot and ankle health.

We are thrilled to introduce the newest addition to our POA team, Dr. Saleh, a distinguished specialist in the field of spine surgery. Dr. Saleh's impressive educational background, unwavering dedication to patient care, and extensive experience make him an invaluable asset to our practice.
Dr. Saleh's journey to becoming a spine surgeon began with his academic prowess. He obtained his Medical Degree from the prestigious New York University Grossman School of Medicine. Complementing this achievement, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Education from City College of New York's Sophie Davis School. This solid educational foundation has propelled him to the forefront of the medical field.





Following his education, Dr. Saleh completed an Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at NYU Langone Health, where he honed his surgical skills and medical knowledge. His commitment to excellence led him to a Spine Surgery Fellowship at the renowned Rothman Orthopaedic Institute/Thomas Jefferson University. With this intensive training, he has become a recognized authority in spine surgery, providing patients with exceptional care and outcomes.

Dr. Saleh's dedication to staying at the cutting edge of his field is evident in his membership in esteemed medical organizations, including the National Association of Spine Surgeons and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These affiliations reflect his commitment to ongoing education and the implementation of the latest advancements in spine surgery techniques.
Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Dr. Saleh has received several prestigious awards throughout his career. These include the Executive Chief Resident title during his NYU Langone Orthopaedic Surgery Residency, the Nate Bondi Memorial Award, and the Award for Outstanding Research in Orthopaedic Surgery from New York University Grossman School of Medicine. His dedication to research and innovation is further underscored by his extensive list of peer-reviewed publications.

We are excited to have Dr. Saleh as part of our team, and we invite you to schedule a consultation with him to discuss your spine health. Whether you're seeking treatment for a spinal condition, exploring surgical options, or simply looking for guidance on maintaining a healthy spine, Dr. Saleh's expertise and compassionate care will ensure you receive the highest quality treatment.
You can learn more about Dr. Saleh here. Don't hesitate to contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Saleh. We look forward to helping you on your journey to a healthier, pain-free spine.

We are delighted to introduce Dr. Horling, a highly skilled specialist in podiatric medicine. Dr. Horling joined our team earlier this year. Her impressive background and two decades of experience make her an invaluable asset to our practice. Whether you need foot care, treatment for sports injuries, or wound care, Dr. Horling is here to provide you with exceptional care.
Dr. Horling's journey to becoming a renowned podiatric physician began with her undergraduate education at Ursinus College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. Her passion for healthcare and dedication to improving patients' lives led her to the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, where she obtained her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Degree in 2000.





To further enhance her skills and expertise, Dr. Horling completed a rigorous three-year residency program at Frankford Hospital (now Jefferson Health) in Philadelphia, PA. This comprehensive program focused on medicine for the first year and then two years of intensive foot and ankle surgery training. Her dedication and commitment to excellence set her on a path to becoming double board certified.

Dr. Horling's commitment to the highest standards of care is demonstrated through her double board certifications. She is certified in Foot Surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and in Podiatric Primary Care by the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry. These certifications reflect her dedication to providing comprehensive podiatric services.
Dr. Horling is an active member of the American Podiatric Medical Society and the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Society. She currently serves on the Board of the NJPMS as the secretary for the Capital Division, further highlighting her commitment to advancing the field of podiatry.
With over 20 years of practice, Dr. Horling has a wealth of experience treating patients with various conditions, including podiatric medicine, sports injuries, and wound care. Her expertise was further showcased during her tenure as a panelist at the RWJ Wound Care Center in Hamilton for an impressive ten years.

If you're seeking compassionate care and advanced solutions for your foot and ankle needs, Dr. Horling is here to provide you with exceptional treatment. Don't hesitate to contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Horling. You can see Dr. Horling's bio here. We look forward to helping you achieve better foot health and overall well-being.
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