50 Races in 50 States

Posted May 15, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

It’s a Half Marathon, not a Sprint: 50 Races in 50 States

Don and Peggy Hoben have taken on the phenomenal task of completing a half marathon in all 50 states. Their journey began in 1999 and they are finishing their last race in Hawaii later this year. This ambitious project started after Don’s company offered employees the opportunity to receive free personal training at a local fitness studio (The Training Studio in Louisville, KY).
At the time, Don was 50-years-old and looking to lose weight. This opportunity to get in better shape and to lose weight was just what he needed and he signed on.

In 2000, Don and Peggy both began getting involved in the local racing scene in Louisville. They enjoyed competing in the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon, the Marine Corps marathon, and several others. After spending many hours training for these races, Don started to get tired focusing on the same old goals. While sitting inside the Ken Combs Running store on Shelbyville Rd. one day, Don and Peggy came up with a unique idea. They made the decision together to take their training to a whole new level by completing a half marathon in every single state.

At the time, a fellow employee at Don’s company had inspired them on this journey after she had completed seven half marathons on every continent. In the beginning, Don and Peggy’s strategy was more spontaneous and oftentimes races took place just two or three weeks apart. Since 2007, they have altered their strategy and have planned for many new adventures.

Not surprisingly, during some of these races, the weather has not been ideal. When asked about his favorite race, Don replies first with the races that were the most challenging and unforgettable. For example, Don and Peggy competed in the Chicago half marathon, or what they like to call, “The Hurricane.” They spent the entire 13.1 miles running in nonstop rain. The race in Utah left Don and Peggy wishing for warmer clothing, while the hills in the San Francisco half marathon proved to be an unforgettable challenge.

Despite encountering some rough conditions, they have also experienced many new adventures and sights while traveling to races across the country. When possible, along with the races, they enjoy spending time searching out Presidential graves and libraries, National Parks and capitals in the states that they visit. Most recently they completed a race in Maine and are now looking forward USA Map to their last two – one in Vermont and the grand finale in Hawaii.

Because Peggy walks these races, while Don executes a combination of running and walking, the two have different training schedules. Their paces leave them separated for most of the race. Don used to go back and finish the race with Peggy, but now he patiently waits at the finish line for her return.

This 50 half marathon goal has not left Don and Peggy without injury. The two have both faced meniscus tears, and minor knee injuries. Don shares his injury prevention plans which involve taking it easy, despite completing four to six half marathons a year. He explains, “It’s more about finishing the race, rather than trying to get a new PR every time.” However, the 65-year-old hopes to break his goal of two hours for one of his final races. (more…)

10 Benefits of Cycling for Exercise

Posted May 13, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

With May being National Bike Month and increasing warmer weather, it couldn’t be a better time to pull that old bike out of the garage and take it for a spin! Cycling is a great exercise if you are looking to tone your muscles and give your joints a break. This type of exercise is perfect if you are new to outdoor exercise, or for anyone who wants to switch up their cardio routine!

Cycling for Exercise – 10 Reasons to Ride Your Bike!

Enjoy the Weather: Cycling is a perfect excuse to enjoy a beautiful spring day. While stationary cycling can be just as strenuous, biking along a nice path is even better!
Easy on the Joints: This type of exercise is low-impact and leaves your knees, ankles and hips free from pain. Biking allows 70 percent of your body weight to be supported by the handles and saddle, making this a great way to cross-train for impact exercises like running.
Burns Calories: Going on a nice bike ride can help you burn up to 300 calories an hour. Depending on your pace and terrain, a bike ride can really help shed some calories and keep you fit!
Prevents Heart Disease: Cycling is an ideal exercise for those looking to lower their “fitness age.” A study by the British Medical Association concluded that cycling 20 miles a week can cut your risk of developing coronary heart disease by 50 percent.
Promotes Balance and Coordination: Maneuvering and steering a bicycle can help increase coordination and balance for those changing gears, using a turning signal, and rounding corners. All of these actions require control and symmetry to remain upright.
Great Method of Transportation: Riding a bicycle instead of the car can be a healthy, eco-friendly way to get around. On nice days, why not opt for a gentle bike ride to get your blood pumping and run errands around town.
Fights Colds: The immune system thrives off of moderate levels of activity, just like cycling! Riding a bike helps fend off nagging colds, coughs, and runny noses. Choosing to cycle rather than taking public transportation also helps you avoid exposure to germs.
Reduces Stress: Cycling is a great way to reduce stress and stay calm. Most bike riders report having lower levels of stress than those driving in cars.
Boosts Mood: Taking time to complete a physical activity can greatly affect ones mood. Releasing those endorphins through a low-impact exercise like cycling will improve your day!
Easy: While some days the weather may not be ideal, taking a bike ride around the neighborhood is something most people find enjoyable. It only requires two pieces of equipment (helmet and bike) and a little bit of training. Most families can join in on the fun and go for an adventure together. No matter what age, shape, or size, most people have the luxury of enjoying this exercise!

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Lose Weight Now with Orthopaedic Specialists

Posted May 8, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

Orthopaedic Specialists is introducing new programs to help you lose weight and get healthier. Learn more about our weight loss program by attending a helpful information session hosted by Dr. Stacie Grossfeld. (You will also enjoy free samples, recipes, grocery shopping lists, and more!)

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Talented Runner Marissa Lowe Makes Amazing Comeback After Injury

Posted May 5, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

Marissa Lowe Competes in Triple Crown Races

Marissa running in the 2015 Papa John’s 10 miler. She finished 2nd in her age division with a time of 1:19.

Marissa Lowe is a talented young woman with an inspiring passion for running. And it all could have come to halting stop during her junior year in high school. While running in her second cross country meet of the season, Marissa suddenly felt a stabbing pain in the top front of her left thigh. After she crossed the finish line, she tried to downplay the injury, but her mother Betsy suspected something more was wrong.

When the pain did not go away after a few days, Betsy made an appointment with Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists. After examining Marissa, Dr. Grossfeld had her in for an MRI at 7:30 a.m. the next morning.

Within two hours, Dr. Grossfeld called to explain that Marissa needed to be on crutches immediately. She had a stress reaction in her femur that could turn into a very serious stress fracture if she was not careful. While some people would have immediately stopped physical activity altogether, as a very competitive high school athlete, Marissa was hopeful that she could maintain some level of fitness.

Marissa Lowe, North Oldham Senior, runs Anthem 5K race.

Marissa and her family before the 2015 Anthem 5K – the first leg in the Triple Crown Races.

Dr. Grossfeld understood Marissa’s passion for her sport, and she worked closely with Marissa to provide her with clear instructions about the types of physical activities she could and could not do. Over the course of six weeks, Marissa gradually engaged in different types of activities including swimming and the elliptical machine, to maintain as much of her fitness as possible.

Two weekends before the state cross-country championships, Marissa was able to return to the sport she loves to compete in a cross country meet. She surprised everyone when she ran the same time as her first race of the year, before she was even injured! Though she lost six weeks of training, she did not lose any time. And this is due in large measure to her incredible dedication and determination, and to the fact that Dr. Grossfeld was willing to work with her to help her stay active while successfully healing her injured leg.

One of Marissa’s long time goals was to compete in and finish the Louisville Triple Crown running races, and the Kentucky Derby Mini Marathon before she graduates from high school and goes off to college. As a senior at North Oldham High School this year, her parents finally agreed. (more…)

5 Common Running Injuries

Posted April 28, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

Spring is in full swing. And if you’re a runner, this means that outdoor racing season is in full swing too! This time of the year is very exciting for runners looking to accomplish new goals, or for those joining the running scene after winter hibernation.

Whether you’re a beginner, or an advanced runner, injuries are bound to happen. Running may put a significant strain on your muscles, leading to a long list of common injuries. Sometimes these injuries are the result of an acute injury caused by a fall or twist. Othertimes running injuries happen overtime from overuse, inadequate footwear, or from certain physical maladies.

It’s important for all runners to understand some of the most common running injuries. This will not only help you to prevent injuries from happening, but it can also put you on the road to recovery if you do find yourself injured. Here is an overview of 5 common running injuries that many runners experience:

Runner’s Knee: This injury is typically associated with overuse, while it is known for several causes. Runner’s knee happens when your kneecap moves out of alignment. This is more likely when the cartilage in this area becomes worn down. Pain is often felt around the kneecap when you are going up or down stairs, squatting, or sitting with your knees bent. Anti-inflammatory drugs, stretching, and icing the area may effectively treat runner’s knee.
Stress Fracture: A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that is associated with pain and discomfort. For runner’s, this is often located in the shin or feet. Sometimes starting a new physical activity can cause a stress fracture. Overuse can also trigger this common sports injury. Pain from a stress fracture oftentimes improves with rest.
Shin Splints: This pain is located in the front or inside of the lower leg, known as the tibia. Shin splints are often caused when you change your workout or increase a workout too quickly. The best way to treat shin splints is to rest, stretch, and ice the affected area. Compression socks can also be useful.
Muscle Pulls: This becomes an issue after overstretching a muscle like your hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and groin. Sometimes this injury results in a small tear or it can escalate into a muscle tear which feels like a popping sound. Initial treatment for a muscle pull follows the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
Blisters: Although blisters don’t appear to be a big concern, left untreated these can really hamper your workout. Blisters are fluid filled sacs on the surface of the skin, caused by friction. To lower your risk for developing blisters begin by using new shoes gradually. Try to wear good socks with a double layer and apply petroleum jelly to areas prone to blisters.

All of these common running injuries tend to remain less serious, unless left untreated. To prevent these common injuries from happening, always listen to your body. It’s advisable to warm-up and (more…)

What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

Posted April 10, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a term that describes pain experienced in the front of the knee known as the patella or kneecap, and in the femur (thigh bone). This aching pain can develop into a sharp stabbing or a burning sensation with increased activity. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is particularly common among athletes, teenagers and people doing physical labor.

Most of the time, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome originates from the softening of cartilage in the knee caused by overuse, injury, excess weight and the improper alignment of the kneecap. This syndrome may also be referred to as retropatellar pain, anterior knee pain, and chondromalacia patellae.

Most patients describe their pain with activities that involve the bending of the knee. Sudden stabbing pain comes with stair climbing and activities where squatting or kneeling is present. The burning sensation frequently follows prolonged sitting that is accompanied with office work or riding for an extended period on an airplane. A pseudo effect of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is felt when patients feel like their knee is going to give out. This is most likely to happen when moving down stairs. Oftentimes, these symptoms are associated with the start of a new activity or increasing the intensity level of recurring activities.

Is it Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is generally diagnosed with a physical exam. This typically includes a patient history to determine the cause of this pain. In some cases, x-rays or MRI imaging tests may be used to view the tissues inside the knee. These tests will help rule out structural damage with the connected tissues inside the knee.

The treatment for this syndrome is very direct and typically takes two approaches. First, avoiding the activities that are aggravating the symptoms associated with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is generally recommended. This includes changing physical activities to prevent sitting, squatting, or kneeling for a prolonged period of time. Sometimes non-prescription anti-inflammatory drugs may be helpful. These help decrease stiffness, swelling, and pain. Secondly, using ice and resting the affected area are frequently advisable.

Oftentimes, physical therapy exercises can help alleviate symptoms from Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome as well. These exercises focus on stretching and increasing flexibility in the knee. (more…)

What is A Stress Fracture?

Posted March 29, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

$learn more about what is a stress fracture$ A stress fracture has become one of the most common injuries in sports. The popularity of this injury tends to stem from the overuse and stress an athlete puts on his or her lower limbs. More than 50 percent of all stress fractures occur in the lower leg, either in the tibia (shin bone) or in the foot.

A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone, often caused by increasing the amount or the intensity of an activity too quickly. Some stress fractures may happen when you compete on different types of surfaces or you do not wear the right type of footwear for your activity.

Athletes and women tend to be the groups more susceptible to developing stress fractures. The repetitive movements associated with tennis, track and field, gymnastics, and basketball tend to leave athletes feeling muscle fatigue which can lead to stress fractures. Runners are especially susceptible to stress fractures because of the constant pounding on hard pavement, or the transitioning between several surfaces during one workout. Oftentimes when athletes push themselves too hard, too quickly, their bodies need more time to rest. Getting back out on the court or field too early could potentially result in a stress fracture.

Female athletes tend to have a higher rate of developing stress fractures than male athletes. Medical studies have proven that female athletes are more likely to experience more stress fractures than male athletes when competing in activities like running. As a woman’s bone density decreases, her chances of developing a stress fracture increases.

Diagnosing A Stress Fracture

Oftentimes, stress fractures are diagnosed based on symptoms. Pain is mostly dull around the site of the fracture and usually worsens with exercising, walking, or standing. Sometimes swelling is common around the site. If you suspect a stress fracture, it is important to seek a doctor’s attention immediately. Continuing to run on the affected leg or foot will only worsen the cracked bone and make the recovery process longer.

Most stress fractures are determined with a simple X-Ray, or in some cases, an MRI. Stress fractures are treated best with periods of rest. Staying off of the affected area for six weeks is generally protocol, however depending on the severity, more time may be added. In addition to resting, bracing or shoe inserts may be necessary to treat the affected area.

After getting adequate rest, it is important to return back to one’s sport slowly and cautiously. Getting back to the field or court should be a gentle process in order to keep that area healed and prevent reoccurring fractures.

Stress fractures can be quite debilitating for athletes, so it is extremely important to practice prevention activities like: Cross-training, setting realistic goals, and maintaining a healthy diet. Using proper (more…)

Why Do My Knees Make Clicking Sounds?

Posted March 24, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

During specific bending movements such as squats or kneeling, your knees may make an audible sound of a crack or click. Typically this isn’t something to be too concerned about, as there are several reasons why our joints tend to make these sounds. Popping and cracking start to become a normal noise after years of physical activity and even normal aging. The time to grow concerned is if the popping or cracking noises result in a swollen knee or painful area to touch or move.

According to Dr. David McAllister, Director of the UCLA Sports Medicine Program, “A lot of joints crack and the knees are a really common joint to crack. Most people have knees that crack when they squat down or go through the full arc of motion. We generally don’t worry about cracking or popping when it isn’t associated with pain or swelling.”

So, just out of curiosity, what does that sound mean? Well throughout your life, tissues that cover the bones, otherwise known as cartilage, becomes uneven in certain areas. Standing up after squatting sometimes produces a noise made from the rougher surfaces of cartilage rubbing together. There is also another reason for that sound, and it comes from the ligaments which connect bone to bone in the body. During movement, these ligaments tighten, causing the joint lining to move over bones and create popping sounds. It’s all related to the way our inside structures work together with external body parts.

If the knee clicking starts to become painful and frequent, you should seek the help of a qualified physician. This condition might be associated with several knee ailments including: Runner’s Knee, arthritis, damage to the meniscus, and in severe cases — an ACL or MCL tear. In these cases, there are certain symptoms to look out for including: stiffness, bruising, inflammation, and chronic pain.

Knee clicking without pain is very common in adults and children. Many times this noise comes from the sound of excess air escaping the joint. It’s similar to the sound and feeling felt after cracking knuckles. Although this sound may be irritating, there is no real cause for concern. There are several home remedies that can help prevent this problem.

If there is a certain activity that is known to make this audible noise in your knee, you may consider modifying or avoiding this activity. If the activity is not easy to avoid, wearing a band around your knee may prevent this clicking noise as well. Performing strengthening exercises for your knees and hamstrings can help provide more support to this area and may be helpful as well. (more…)

University of Louisville’s Teena Murray Makes A Huge Difference For Student Athletes

Posted March 13, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

Raised in a small town of about 1,600 people in the Canadian province of Quebec, Teena Murray is making a big influence on student athletes at the University of Louisville (U of L). As the Director of Sports Performance, Teena is in charge of the athletic performance for students involved in 21 sports programs at U of L. This includes working as the head performance specialist for the women’s basketball and softball programs.

Describing her childhood days, Teena explains that she grew up playing hockey with the boys, since there weren’t a lot of organized sports for girls at that time. During high school and college she enjoyed playing competitive basketball and she was also a high level softball pitcher. After completing undergraduate degrees in Kinesiology and Education, her keen interest in human athletic performance, nutrition, and exercise physiology, led her to Greensboro, North Carolina, where she earned a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from UNC, Greensboro.

Teena has now spent more than two decades in the sports performance industry. She is a Master Coach with the Collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coaches’ Association, and is also certified by numerous organizations including the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Functional Movement Systems, United States Weightlifting and Precision Nutrition.

Prior to joining U of L in 2004, she gained valuable experience working at Cornell University and the University of Connecticut. With normal work days spanning before the crack of dawn to long after dusk, Teena describes the commitment and passion she has for her job working with college student athletes. “I’ve had a taste of working with Olympic level athletes and athletes in pro sports, but one of the things I love about working in college athletics is the opportunity I have to watch the athletes grow and develop over a four year period. It’s just amazing to see the evolution of their bodies, minds, and personalities, how they mature, and then to feel like over the course of working together, we’ve really prepared them for life after sports. We have the opportunity to make a major impact, and I love that.”

As an adjunct faculty member in University of Louisville’s Exercise Science program, Teena has focused her research and writing on performance profiling with elite athletes. The field of sports performance is continually evolving and advancing. In order to optimize athletic performance, Teena and her team use different kinds of technologies to monitor and assess the physical stress on each athlete. Teena explains: “I like working with each individual athlete, I love the variety…Our goal is to make sure that each athlete is as fresh as possible on game day so they can perform at their highest level.”

Not only does this involve a carefully planned and rigorous training schedule, but nutrition is also a big focus. Teena and her team have an influence on the meals and snacks the athletes eat, both in terms of timing and nutritional content. The athletes take all of this very seriously, too, as Teena explains that it is not uncommon for her to receive text messages from players with pictures of their meals — “Is this OK to eat?” they might ask her.

Though Teena’s position at the University of Louisville is extremely exciting and rewarding, she has had some other pretty incredible experiences in her career. Teena worked as the strength and conditioning coach for the U.S. Women’s National and Olympic ice hockey teams between 2006 and 2010. During this period, which Teena describes as “an opportunity of a lifetime,” the teams won two World Championships and a silver medal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Given this, and all that she does, it is not surprising that Teena was awarded the 2012 Guiding Woman in Sport Award by the National Association of Girls and Women in Sport (NAGWS).

While Teena explains that her days participating as a competitive athlete have passed, she still makes time to work out almost every single day. She enjoys a wide variety of activities, including trail running, hiking, mountain biking, weight-lifting and yoga. She also has a lot of fun keeping up with her two young children, ages 3 1/2 and 8.

When asked about her personal role models, Teena is quick to refer to the important influence of her family. Her uncle Bryan Murray has had an incredible career in the National Hockey League. He currently serves as the General Manager of the Ottawa Senators, having previously worked as the head coach for numerous NHL teams including the Florida Panthers and the Detroit Red Wings. Teena also mentions her parents who, she explains, taught her the meaning of hard work as self-employed business owners back in her home town. (more…)

Achilles Injury and Genetics

Posted March 8, 2015 by Orthopaedic Specialists

If you’ve ever had an Achilles injury, you know how painful these can be. Oftentimes Achilles injuries are accompanied by extreme pain shooting through the back of the foot and heel, tenderness and swelling. Stiffness, loss of mobility and sometimes popping noises are also typical if you’ve torn or ruptured your Achilles tendon.

This springy tissue located at the back of your ankle, connecting to the muscle in the calf, is responsible for varied movements and flexibility in your foot and ankle. Achilles injuries are extremely painful and have been known to leave athletes and even amateurs on the side lines for many months.

There are certain degrees of tendon injuries one can sustain. In some cases, the tendon might not completely tear or rupture, leaving the tendon partially torn. For those types of injuries, it is suggested to treat with anti-inflammatory medication, ice and lots of rest. When the tendon is completely ruptured, a person might face surgery or casting options to encourage a fast and efficient recovery.

Achilles injuries are most often caused by overuse, miscalculated movements or wearing improper footwear. However, there are several studies being released that acknowledge a connection between genetics and Achilles tendon injuries. The collagen proteins giving the tendons and ligaments their structure and support are produced by various genes. Researchers have found that the some genes may leave individuals with weakened structures that may be unable to repair themselves after injury.

Physicians from the University of Cape Town, located in South Africa, have studied Achilles tendon injuries and the internal predispositions linked to this type of injury. At the Research Unit for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Dr. Mokone and his colleagues have discovered that the tenascin- C gene is associated with these types of injuries. This gene is mapped with chromosome 9q32-q34, which provides the encoding that it is responsible for the structural components of tendons.

The study conducted at the University of Cape Town demonstrated that subjects possessing 12 and 14 guanine-thymine repeats have a significantly higher result of Achilles injuries than subjects containing 13 and 17 repeats. Because it’s hard to associate a specific injury with a certain variant found in gene, (more…)