• What are Bunions?

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    X-ray of bunions on big toe, Louisville Orthopedic Specialist for bunions treatment

    Hallux Valgus and Bunions

    Hallux valgus is an orthopedic condition that causes a deformity in the foot as the big toe begins to point toward the second toe. Bunions are a result of the movement, and are characterized by a bony lump that appears on the inside of of the foot at the base of the big toe. Over time, bunions can get bigger and more painful, but taking the proper steps to prevent and manage them when they first appear can put off surgical treatment.

    What Causes Bunions?

    One of the largest factors contributing to the development of bunions is genetics. Approximately 70% of people with with this condition have a family history of the condition, especially amongst adolescents. Otherwise, hallux valgus can develop due to several factors, such as unbalanced force exerted on the joints, tendons, and ligaments of the foot, certain lifestyles, foot trauma, pre-existing conditions, and repetitive micro-trauma. It is important to note that while lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing bunions, not every person at higher risk develops bunions as a result of their activities.

    With these factors in mind, the populations most at risk of developing bunions are:

    • Women, especially pregnant women
    • Athletes, especially ballerinas and dancers
    • People in occupations that involve long periods of standing and/or walking
    • People who wear narrow-toed or high-heeled shoes
    • People with:
      • Low arches, flat feet, or splayfoot
      • Weak connective tissue
      • A short Achilles’ tendon
      • Short calf muscles
      • Arthritis or other joint conditions

    Symptoms of Bunions

    Outside of the visual protrusion, other symptoms of bunions include:

    • Pain and tenderness at the site of the bunion
    • Redness and inflammation of the toes and/or foot
    • Hardened skin on the bottom of the foot
    • Calluses or corns on the bunion
    • Stiffness, arthritis, or restricted motion of the big toe
    • Difficulty or a disruption of normal walking patterns

    Are Bunions Painful?

    How painful a bunion can be is dependent on how big the protrusion is and how deformed the toes are. Small and unbothered, some people might not notice their bunions. However, as time passes and the condition progresses, the bunion(s) may become bigger. This leads to the complications that make them painful.

    One complication with large bunions is the fact that most shoes are not made to accommodate the bony protrusion of a bunion. Tight or ill-fitting shoes might not always cause bunions, but the consistent irritation present when wearing shoes makes the condition painful. Bunion bumps and deformity can also damage the nerves in your big toe and cause numbness or inflammation.

    Bunions can also indirectly cause pain, as well. Because of the unnatural way it shapes the foot and affects walking patterns, people with bunions are more susceptible to osteoarthritis in the big toe joint, knees, and hips later in life. Depending on the size, this condition can also affect balance and the deformity might increase the risk of falls, especially for the elderly.

    How Are Bunions Treated?

    If bunions cause debilitating pain, grow to be disruptive, or threaten future orthopedic health, doctors will recommend bunion surgery to correct the deformity and get rid of the protrusion. However, bunions that are mild or painless can be managed by conservative, non-surgical treatments. Though these treatments will not cure or get rid of bunions, they can greatly slow the progression of them and reduce pain. These non-surgical bunion treatments can include:

    1. Splints or Braces: Toe splints and toe braces can come in different sizes and forms, but the most common are toe-spacers and night splint.
    2. Appropriate Footwear: Many doctors will recommend switching to wide-toed, flat shoes to lessen irritation. Being barefoot as much as possible will also eliminate bunion irritation and pressure.
    3. Shoe Padding or Orthotics: Custom-made or over-the-counter shoe inserts will often be used in conjunction with proper footwear. This ensures that the toes and foot are supported and the pressure put on the muscles, bones, and tendons are correctly balanced.
    4. Physiotherapy: Stretching and exercising foot muscles can strengthen feet and ligaments, which can help slow the condition.
    5. Over-the-Counter Painkillers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can be used manage pain alongside other treatments. However, painkillers should only be used for a short period of time, so be sure to consult your doctor if you experience continuous or extreme pain from bunions.

    If you or someone you love has suffered from bunions in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    Cycling for Knee Health

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Learn from Dr.. Grossfeld about why cycling is such a good exercise for knee health!

    Since our knees are both very important to our everyday lives and very vulnerable to injury, it’s crucial that we keep them in good health. There are several exercises out there that our knees love, but cycling happens to be one of our favorites here at Orthopaedic Specialists, since it’s a fantastic fitness activity that offers a multitude of benefits for knee health.

    Here’s 6 reasons why cycling is an excellent exercise choice!

    1. Low-Impact and Non-Weight Bearing

    Cycling is a low-impact, non-weight bearing exercise, which means it places minimal stress on your knee joints. Unlike running or high-impact activities, cycling allows you to engage in aerobic exercise without subjecting your knees to excessive pounding.

    2. Strengthens Quadriceps and Hamstrings

    Pedaling engages the quadriceps and hamstrings, the muscles that play a vital role in knee stability. As you push and pull on the pedals, these muscles become stronger, helping to support your knee joint and reduce the risk of injuries.

    3. Improves Range of Motion

    Cycling involves a continuous, rhythmic motion that can help improve the range of motion in your knee joints. Regular cycling can aid in reducing stiffness and enhancing joint flexibility.

    4. Weight Management Tool

    Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for knee health. Excess body weight places added stress on the knees, potentially leading to problems like osteoarthritis. Cycling can be an effective way to manage or lose weight while being gentle on your knees.

    5. Customizable Intensity

    Whether you prefer leisurely rides or challenging hill climbs, cycling allows you to tailor the intensity of your workout to your fitness level. This adaptability makes it suitable for individuals with varying degrees of knee sensitivity.

    6. Knee-Friendly Accessories

    Cycling with proper bike setup and accessories, such as a well-fitted saddle and handlebars, ensures a comfortable and ergonomic riding position. This can significantly reduce the risk of developing knee discomfort or pain, and if you already have knee pain, there is additional equipment that can be added to your bike to accommodate it!

    Conclusion

    Incorporating cycling into your fitness routine can be a great way to improve knee health, enhance cardiovascular fitness, and enjoy the great outdoors. Ensure that your bicycle is well-maintained, with properly inflated tires and well-lubricated moving parts, as a well-maintained bike will provide a smoother and more comfortable ride, further reducing the strain on your knees, and cycling can be an exercise you enjoy for years to come!

    If you are beginning to cycle for the first time or again after a period of time off, remember to start at a pace that suits your current fitness level and gradually increase intensity and duration to avoid overexertion. As with any physical activity, listen to your body, and if you experience persistent knee discomfort or pain, give us a call 502-212-BONE (2663).

    If you or someone you love has suffered a knee injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    Patient of the Month: Dennis Attig

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Meet this month’s patient in the spotlight, Dennis Attig!

    Dennis Attig is the December Patient of the Month for Louisville Bones Orthopaedic Specialists in Louisville KY

    Dennis Attig is a patient of ours that leads a rather extraordinary life! At 67 years old, Dennis works as an electrician, as he has his entire professional life. Right now, he has the opportunity to work a part-time role at a well-known airline, which allows him to continue working in his field while he and his family – Dennis is the proud father of 3 children – travel to their international dream destinations.

    However, work is not the only travel that Mr. Attig has embarked on. For the last 20 or so years, Dennis has journeyed to Guatemala on mission and constructions projects. Through these trips, he had the opportunity to grow acquainted with the nation and its people, many who he now regards as family. This year, he had the additional privilege of spending his summer in Guatemala, teaching English at a school for adult missionaries.

    Word of Mouth and Memory – What Led Him to Dr. Grossfeld

    When Dennis began experiencing knee pain, he came to see us here at Dr. Grossfeld. Why? Simple – word of mouth travels far!

    Dennis Attig is the December Patient of the Month for Dr. Stacie Grossfeld's Louisville Bones Orthopaedic Specialists in Louisville KYA job at an airline is one that provides ample opportunity to encounter all sorts of individuals. Mr. Attig happened to assist a passenger with a knee brace and got to talking about the passenger’s injury. It was here that he received a recommendation for an orthopedic surgeon in Louisville by the name of Dr. Stacie Grossfeld. And, as fate would have it, the name would come up again with his family physician, who he saw when his knee pain began affecting his active electrical work and airline responsibilities.

    Once he was recommended to Dr. Grossfeld, he was immediately started on treatments to help him regain his his sense of normality. “Thanks to the ongoing treatment provided by Dr. Stacie,” Dennis says, “I have managed to steer clear of any major surgeries and have successfully regained my daily functional abilities.”

    Without having to take much recovery time as he might have had to with a surgical treatment, Mr. Attig was able to continue his work and do what he loved, which he remains grateful for to this day.

    “I cannot emphasize enough how highly I recommend Dr. Stacie. Despite maintaining a busy practice, she consistently makes the effort to communicate with me both personally and professionally. I have referred several friends with injuries to her, and they also have nothing but the highest praise for her.”

    If you or someone you love has suffered a knee injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    6 Reasons Your Knee Hurts When You Sit Cross-Legged

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Dr. Stacie Grossfeld of Louisville, KY tells 6 reasons that you might have pain when sitting cross-legged.

    It’s no secret that knees are an incredibly vital, yet vulnerable joint in our bodies. From supporting our weight to the ability to walk, having healthy, mobile knees is crucial to activity and our comfort when we move our bodies into different positions on different surfaces. When we were children, perhaps it was easy to get into certain positions that you have difficulties achieving as an adult, a very common position being sitting cross-legged. If this position causes you discomfort or pain, then you might be wondering what could be wrong with your your knee to suddenly have that pain.

    Having knee pain in any position might be alarming, and it’s important to get to the bottom of your knee pain before it worsens. Here’s 6 different reasons that your knee hurts when your sit cross-legged!

    1. A Previous Injury

    It can be frustrating when we get injured, but it can be even more frustrating when we think that our bodies are healed and then start experiencing pain again. The knee is a very vulnerable part of our body, as it is a joint that is under a lot of repetitive pressure during most of our day. In a study from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, experts saw a 3-6x increase in the likelihood of osteoarthritis and earlier onset of symptoms in individuals with a prior knee injury. Young athletes are also more than 5x more likely to experience an ACL tear in either knee when they have already torn their ACL.

    Some of this risk and lingering pain can be offset by preventative measures taken in the recovery period, such as rigorous physical therapy, personal training to strengthen the area, and keeping away from physical activity until the knee injury is completely healed instead of pre-maturely putting the joint back to work that it isn’t ready for.

    2. Weakened Hips or Glutes

    A sedentary lifestyle can lead to the weakening of the gluteal and hip muscles, which means that when weight is loaded onto the legs, those muscles cannot preform optimally and forces other areas of the body to compensate – the knees being one of the first to face the consequences. This weakening can also lessen the body’s ability to absorb shock and move correctly, which leads to awkward movements becoming habit and excess strain wearing down joints.

    3. Arthritis

    Sometimes, knee pain is due to the normal wear-and-tear of our aging bodies. Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are both conditions that affect more than 32 million adults in the US. The symptoms include pain, stiffness, and loss of joint movement. Arthritis causes the cushioning cartilage of the knee joint to wear away until the bones rub together directly; this can affect the outer compartment of the knee (lateral knee pain), the inside compartment (medial knee pain), and underneath the knee cap (patellofemoral knee pain).

    4. Runner’s Knee

    A common cause of knee pain when bent into a certain position is overuse of the muscles and joint. Runner’s knee is the term that describes patellofemoral pain and occurs mostly in runners, hikers, skiers, cyclists, soccer players, weightlifters, and women in general, as their proportions make it easier for the knees to be worked at an unnatural angle. There can be a popping or cracking noise with knee flexion, but can be improved with rest, physical therapy, and knee support.

    5. Tendonitis

    Tendonitis, or the inflammation of tendons, can affect knee pain because the knee is surrounded and supported by a myriad of tendons from the back of the thigh and knee (hamstring tendonitis), the front of the knee (patellar tendonitis), and above the knee (quadriceps tendonitis). Tendonitis pain is triggered by bending and movement of the knee, which is required in order to be able to sit cross-legged.

    6. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

    Outside of the knee pain is often caused by outside of the knee anatomy, and the iliotibial band is a prime suspect as a thick strip of connective tissue from the outer hip to the shin. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is most common in male athletes but can affect anyone of any gender who engage in repetitive motion using the Iliotibial band. This overuse causes the tightening and/or inflammation of the IB, and the irritation can spread to nearby tissue as well, both of which you would feel when sitting cross-legged.

    If you or someone you love has suffered a knee injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    5 Reasons Walking is Good for Knee Joints

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Dr. Stacie Grossfeld of Orthopaedic Specialists in Louisville, KY explains 5 reasons that walking is good for knee joints.For many of us that lead busy lives, there never seems to be much time to commit to the proper amount of exercise recommended, which is 30-60 minutes per day for adults. Between managing a family, having a full-time job, cooking healthy meals, and taking care of our home and other responsibilities, getting a gym membership on top of it all seems like a moot point. But there are plenty of easy exercises to strengthen your joints and muscles that you can get from the comfort of your home, or even during your day by making conscious choices; a popular one? Walking!

    That’s right, something you already do can be a big benefit to your overall physical health, but this exercise is particularly good for those with knee problems. Before we get into those reasons, remember to keep a few things in mind:

    • Listen to your body
    • Get the proper gear
    • Take days to rest and recover

    If you find that walking puts more stress on your hurt knee than it relieves the pain, listen to your body and consult a doctor. There are some gear items that might help, such as shoe inserts or knee braces, but it’s always a good idea to have a medical opinion on unusual joint pain. With that in mind…

    Walking is good for your knees for several reasons:

    1. Low-Impact Exercise:
      1. Walking is a low-impact activity, which means it puts less stress on your knee joints compared to activities like running or jumping. This can help reduce the risk of knee injuries and minimize wear and tear on your joints.
    2. Joint Lubrication:
      1. When you walk, your knee joints are gently moved through their full range of motion. This motion helps distribute synovial fluid, which acts as a natural lubricant for your joints, reducing friction and maintaining joint health.
    3. Strengthening Muscles:
      1. Walking helps strengthen the muscles around your knees, including your quadriceps and hamstrings. Strong muscles provide better support to your knee joint, reducing the risk of instability and injury.
    4. Weight Management:
      1. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for knee health. Walking is an effective way to burn calories and manage your weight, which can help reduce the load on your knees and prevent conditions like osteoarthritis.
    5. Improved Circulation:
      1. Walking promotes better blood circulation, which can aid in the delivery of essential nutrients to your knee joint tissues, supporting their repair and overall health.

    If you or someone you love has suffered a knee injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    Exercises for Knee Health

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Maintaining knee health is essential for a fulfilling and active lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone looking to improve their fitness, understanding the best activities for your knees from an orthopedic perspective is crucial. This article will explore various fitness activities that promote knee health while reducing the risk of injury.

    1. Low-Impact Cardiovascular Exercises

    Low-impact cardiovascular exercises are excellent for knee health. Activities like swimming, stationary cycling, and elliptical training provide an effective cardiovascular workout without placing excessive stress on your knees. Swimming, in particular, is an orthopedic favorite as it offers a full-body workout with minimal joint impact.

    2. Strength Training with Proper Form

    Strength training is essential for overall joint stability, including your knees. When performed with proper form and technique, strength exercises can strengthen the muscles around your knees, reducing the risk of injury. Focus on compound movements like squats, lunges, and leg presses. Always start with lighter weights to avoid overloading your knees and gradually increase as your strength improves.

    3. Yoga and Pilates

    Yoga and Pilates are both fantastic options for enhancing flexibility, balance, and core strength. These low-impact activities can improve knee joint mobility while promoting overall stability. Poses and exercises can be modified to accommodate different fitness levels, making them accessible to almost anyone.

    4. Tai Chi

    Tai Chi is a graceful, low-impact martial art that emphasizes slow, flowing movements and deep breathing. Practicing Tai Chi can enhance balance, coordination, and strength while being gentle on the knees. Its fluid motions can even help reduce knee pain and stiffness in individuals with arthritis.

    How to Prevent Further Injury

    1. Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down

    Regardless of the activity you choose, always incorporate a thorough warm-up and cool-down routine. A proper warm-up increases blood flow to your muscles and prepares your knees for exercise, while a cool-down helps prevent stiffness and promotes recovery. Simple dynamic stretches and mobility exercises can be beneficial.

    2. Mindful Progression

    Orthopedically speaking, gradual progression is key to knee health. Avoid sudden increases in activity intensity or volume, as this can lead to overuse injuries or strains. Whether you’re starting a new fitness regimen or adding intensity to your current routine, take your time to adapt and allow your body, including your knees, to adjust.

    3. Listen to Your Body

    Perhaps the most critical advice from an orthopedic perspective is to listen to your body. Pay attention to any discomfort or pain in your knees during and after exercise. If you experience persistent knee pain or swelling, it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional or orthopedic specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

    Conclusion

    Maintaining healthy knees is vital for an active and fulfilling life. Incorporating low-impact cardiovascular exercises, proper strength training, yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, warm-up and cool-down routines, mindful progression, and attentive listening to your body can help you achieve optimal knee health. Always consult with a healthcare provider or us at Orthopedic Specialists 501-212-BONE (2663) if you have specific concerns about your knee health or experience persistent pain. With the right approach, you can enjoy a lifetime of fitness and mobility while safeguarding your knees!

    If you or someone you love has suffered a knee injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    Foods That Fight Inflammation

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Dr. Stacie Grossfeld answers an FAQ: what foods should you eat to reduce inflammation? Non-inflammatory foods are good for you!

    Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or illness, but chronic inflammation can contribute to various health problems. One way to combat chronic inflammation is by adopting a diet rich in non-inflammatory foods. In this article, we’ll explore a list of non-inflammatory foods that can help promote overall health and well-being.

    1. Fatty Fish

    Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties. These essential fats help reduce inflammation throughout the body and are excellent for heart and brain health.

    2. Leafy Greens

    Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them ideal choices for an anti-inflammatory diet.

    3. Berries

    Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are bursting with antioxidants that combat inflammation. They are also rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.

    4. Turmeric

    Turmeric is a spice known for its potent anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. Adding turmeric to your meals or drinking turmeric tea can help reduce inflammation and may alleviate symptoms in conditions like arthritis.

    5. Ginger

    Ginger is another spice with anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used fresh or in powdered form and is often included in teas, soups, and stir-fries.

    6. Nuts and Seeds

    Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They not only help combat inflammation but also support heart health.

    7. Olive Oil

    Extra virgin olive oil contains monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. Use it as a salad dressing or for light sautéing.

    8. Cruciferous Vegetables

    Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage belong to the cruciferous vegetable family. They are rich in sulfur-containing compounds that support the body’s natural detoxification processes and have anti-inflammatory effects.

    9. Tomatoes

    Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Cooking tomatoes can enhance the absorption of lycopene, so enjoy them in sauces and stews.

    10. Green Tea

    Green tea is packed with polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Sipping on green tea regularly can be a soothing and health-promoting habit.

    11. Whole Grains

    Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats instead of refined grains. Whole grains provide fiber and nutrients that help regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation.

    12. Lean Protein

    Lean sources of protein such as skinless poultry, tofu, and legumes are essential for muscle repair and overall health. They provide protein without the pro-inflammatory saturated fats found in red meat.

    Conclusion

    Incorporating non-inflammatory foods into your diet is a proactive approach to promoting your health and well-being. By choosing foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory compounds, you can help your body combat chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of various health conditions. Remember that a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle are key components of overall wellness, so strive for a well-rounded approach to a healthier you!

    If you or someone you love suffers from an inflammatory condition in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    Whiplash: An Overview

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopedic Specialists in Louisville, Kentucky can treat your whiplash and complications at the highest level of care and expertise.

    If you’ve ever been knocked around in a way that displaces your head and causes it to whip forward and backwards, but then experienced pain in your neck, shoulders, or head, then you may have contracted what is called whiplash.

    Whiplash is a very common injury that results from a rapid and abrupt extension and flexion of the muscles in the neck – like the motion of a whip, hence it’s name. Any event causing this motion can bring about a case of whiplash, such as being in a car that puts on the brakes suddenly without you being able to prepare yourself, being rear-ended, or taking a big fall without properly supporting your neck. Even rollercoasters can give whiplash! The most common causes of whiplash in the US, however, is via a sports injury or a car accident.

    How serious is whiplash? Does it need to be treated medically? Find out more in our overview of whiplash!

    The Mechanics of Whiplash

    Orhtopaedic Specialists is home to Dr. Stacie Grossfeld, double board-certified in Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery and serves the Louisville and surrounding areas. Make an appointment for your whiplash injury today!This type of injury is known by terms other than whiplash, such as neck strain or neck sprain, so it might be called by a different name when it comes to articles on the internet or health providers. It also refers to a broader range of injuries rather than just one, like most other injury-related terms do, because when the neck bounces back and forth, the muscles, ligaments and tendons, and/or joints are manipulated past the point of their normal range of motion.

    Case-by-case, the severity differs and cause for concern will depend on where the damage extends to, which can include:

    • The intervertebral joints
    • The cervical discs (also known as intervertebral discs)
    • Cervical muscles
    • Nerve roots
    • Neck ligaments
    • Tendons in the neck

    Because of this range of potential injuries, symptoms, recovery time, and complications that can potentially develop from a whiplash injury can only be determined by a doctor who can recognize the extent of the whiplash.

    When Should I Become Concerned About My Whiplash?

    Like many sprains or strains, it might take a few days for the body to catch up with the injury and manifest in pain and loss of mobility, so some symptoms could be delayed. Immediate pain, paresthesia (burning or prickling sensation), or excruciating pain in the neck, shoulders, or back is certainly a cause for concern, as there could be damaged nerves, torn tendons, or injured cervical discs (herniated discs, bulging discs, or pinched nerves) which are severe conditions that result from serious cases of whiplash.

    However, whiplash isn’t usually used to describe the more extreme injuries, as they have specified diagnoses and names. In general, the condition is considered a very minor and mild injury with symptoms such as:

    • Neck pain
    • Neck stiffness
    • Injuries to the muscles and ligaments (myofascial injuries)
    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Mild shoulder or back pain

    In cases where the whiplash is sever enough to cause a concussion, some people might also experience memory loss, impaired concentration, nervousness/irritability, sleep disturbances, fatigue, or depression. But, again, when the whiplash is serious enough, the diagnoses is referred to and treated as the specific medical term.

    How Should I Treat My Whiplash?

    All depending on the severity of symptoms, the treatment of whiplash can range from letting mild pain resolve on its own to wearing an immobilizing cervical collar for increased stability of the neck during recovery. Many healthcare providers will prescribe over-the-counter pain medications, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, as well as rest, at-home physical therapy, ice, and heat treatments to combat inflammation and tension.

    For more extreme cases, medical imaging may be done on the neck area, such as an MRI, CT Scan, or X-Ray and muscle relaxants, in-office physical therapy, cervical traction, and cervical collars may be prescribed.

    The recovery time for those who have experienced whiplash is rather short, with symptoms in studied cases averaging a full recovery within 2-3 months of obtaining the whiplash injury; however, residual neck pain and headaches were known to be reported and should be tracked in case of a concussion or extended injury.

     

    If you or someone you love has suffered a whiplash injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    From the Desk of Dr. Grossfeld: Plantar Fasciitis

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Dr. Stacie Grossfeld tells about the symptoms, risk factors, and treatments for plantar fasciitis.

    Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and discomfort in the heel and the bottom of the foot. Its signs and symptoms typically include:

    1. Heel Pain

    The most prominent symptom is pain in the heel, usually felt as a sharp, stabbing pain that’s worse with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

    2. Pain After Rest

    Pain often subsides during activity, but can return after periods of rest or prolonged standing.

    3. Stiffness

    Stiffness and tightness in the bottom of the foot, especially in the morning or after long periods of sitting.

    4. Pain that Radiates

    Pain might radiate along the arch of the foot, and sometimes even into the calf.

    5. Tenderness

    The affected area, particularly the inner part of the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone, can be tender to touch.

    6. Increased Pain with Activity

    Prolonged standing, walking, running, or other weight-bearing activities can exacerbate the pain.

    Risk Factors

    People who are overweight, wear shoes with poor arch support, have high arches or flat feet, or engage in activities that involve repetitive impact on the feet are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis.

    Treatment

    Treatment for plantar fasciitis usually starts with over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, physical therapy, and supplementary medical gear like splints, shoe inserts, walking boots, or crutches. If the pain persists at a high level, surgical recommendations may include injections, shock wave therapy, or surgery, which is the last option after all other treatments fail.

    If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, give our office a call to set up a consultation to diagnosis and treat your plantar fasciitis. We use our feet and legs every day, and they are very important to getting enough exercise to properly prevent plantar fasciitis and other conditions, so it’s better to address the pain early to avoid complications in the future.

    If you or someone you love suffers from plantar fasciitis in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.

    Sprains vs Strains

    Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

    Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists is double board certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. Work with her today to resolve your sprains and strains!

    Not all injuries are complicated, serious, or uncommon, and most of us have likely managed to get a variety of sprains and strains during our daily lives. However, while they might be painful, after a few days of rest and healing, the swelling and pain recedes, and a couple of weeks after that, everything is completely back to normal – not so serious, right?

    Sprains and strains are often obtained from physical activities and sports, but can also originate from overuse, awkward movements or positions, and improper lifting. Make sure you consider the risk factors for certain activities as well, as uneven ground, slippery conditions, failing to warm up and cool down after workouts can heighten your risk.

    Depending on the type and severity of pain that you experience with the injury, it’s important to know which is which and how risky it can be to overuse an injured joint or muscle. Simply put, while they are both acute, soft-tissue injuries, a sprain is an injury to a joint or the connective ligaments and a strain is an injury to muscles or tendons.

    Sprains

    Sprains happen when the joint capsule or surrounding ligaments of a joint are stretched or torn. A joint capsule is a dense, fibrous connective tissue that is attached to the bones in a joint that seals the joint space, and a ligament is a stronger band of connective tissue that connects the end of one bone with another to stabilize and support the body’s joints. All joints are susceptible to sprains, but the most vulnerable are the ankles, knees, thumbs, and wrists.

    The symptoms of sprains will vary with severity, but may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced stability and function. Regarding severity, there are 3 grades of sprains that your injury can fall into:

    • Grade 1 (Mild): There is slight damage to the fibers of the ligament that can cause pain and mild swelling, but mobility and function are mostly unaffected.
    • Grade 2 (Moderate): There is partial tearing of the ligament, which causes abnormal looseness in the joint when it is moved in certain ways and decreases mobility.
    • Grade 3 (Severe): There is a complete tear of the ligament, which causes significant instability and loss of function.

    Strains

    A strain is similar to a sprain, except that with strains, the muscles and tendons are majorly affected rather than ligaments. They are caused by a sudden stretching or tear of your muscles or your tendons, which are heavy bands of fibrous tissue that connect your bones to your muscles and allows movement. This function is what sets them apart from ligaments, which are there only for bone-to-bone connective purposes. The most common muscles affected by strains are the hamstrings, the back, and the gastrocnemius muscle in the calf.

    Symptoms of a strain may include pain, muscle spasms, muscle weakness, swelling, inflammation, and cramping.

    Treating Sprains and Strains

    Usually, sprains and strains will heal by themselves with enough care and time off. Be careful not to overuse an injured joint or muscle, or you risk re-injury or worsening of the injury. Instead, the R.I.C.E. method is recommended: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. If you have a severe grade 3 sprain or strain, then you may be directed towards an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist to assist in the healing process.

    If you or someone you love has suffered a sprain or strain injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.