Female Basketball Players Are At Higher Risk For Knee Injuries...
The knee is one of the most commonly injured joints while playing basketball. There is a higher proportion of females than male basketball players who sustain ACL injuries. This is typically a non-contact injury. Females are at higher risk due to different landing mechanics. Video analysis shows females often land with the knee in a more knock kneed position, which places the ACL at risk for rupture. Fortunately, there are many preventative programs that have been developed to improve landing mechanics and reduce potential ACL injuries...
Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Injury Prevention
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Meniscal Regeneration Moving Forward...
Researchers have developed a method to regenerate meniscus using a personalized 3D printed implant. The implant is infused with human growth factors that prompt the body to regenerate the lining on its own. The therapy has currently been successfully tested in sheep and could provide the first effective repair of damaged menisci.
Researchers have developed a method to regenerate meniscus using a personalized 3D printed implant. The implant is infused with human growth factors that prompt the body to regenerate the lining on its own. The therapy has currently been successfully tested in sheep and could provide the first effective repair of damaged menisci.
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Glucosamine and Chondroitin? Consider Saving Your Money...
A recent study showed this commonly advertised supplement offers no improvement for patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Data published online in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology suggest that glucosamine and chondroitin offer little efficacy in relieving symptoms and slowing disease progression among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The research team drew data on 1,625 patients participating in the Osteoarthritis Initiative study and who were not using either supplement at baseline. At 4-year follow-up, they found that 18 percent of participants had initiated treatment with glucosamine or chondroitin. After adjustment, the research team found no clinically significant differences between users at all assessments and never-users of glucosamine or chondroitin in WOMAC pain, stiffness, or function scales, or joint space width. These findings support the recommendations in the AAOS clinical practice guideline (CPG) on the Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee.
A recent study showed this commonly advertised supplement offers no improvement for patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Data published online in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology suggest that glucosamine and chondroitin offer little efficacy in relieving symptoms and slowing disease progression among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The research team drew data on 1,625 patients participating in the Osteoarthritis Initiative study and who were not using either supplement at baseline. At 4-year follow-up, they found that 18 percent of participants had initiated treatment with glucosamine or chondroitin. After adjustment, the research team found no clinically significant differences between users at all assessments and never-users of glucosamine or chondroitin in WOMAC pain, stiffness, or function scales, or joint space width. These findings support the recommendations in the AAOS clinical practice guideline (CPG) on the Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Noncontact ACL Injuries
In the US, there are between 100,000 to 250,000 ACL ruptures per year. Sports participation results in 70% of ACL tears. The majority of these injuries are in 15 to 45 year olds. About 70% of ACL injuries are noncontact injuries that occur during change of direction or stopping rapidly...
In the US, there are between 100,000 to 250,000 ACL ruptures per year. Sports participation results in 70% of ACL tears. The majority of these injuries are in 15 to 45 year olds. About 70% of ACL injuries are noncontact injuries that occur during change of direction or stopping rapidly...
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Returning to Play Following ACL Surgery...
A recent study reviewed 69 scientific papers examining the results of ACL reconstruction. The study found this...
81% of people returned to any sport
65% of people returned to their preinjury level of sport
55% of people returned to competitive level sport after surgery
A recent study reviewed 69 scientific papers examining the results of ACL reconstruction. The study found this...
81% of people returned to any sport
65% of people returned to their preinjury level of sport
55% of people returned to competitive level sport after surgery
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Get Out The Running Shoes...
A recent study suggests that non-elite running may not be associated with increased risk of osteoarthritis. The study involved 2,439 participants. They found that running at any time in life was actually associated with a reduced risk of symptomatic osteoarthritis. The authors speculated that not only was running not detrimental, it may be protective of symptomatic osteoarthritis.
A recent study suggests that non-elite running may not be associated with increased risk of osteoarthritis. The study involved 2,439 participants. They found that running at any time in life was actually associated with a reduced risk of symptomatic osteoarthritis. The authors speculated that not only was running not detrimental, it may be protective of symptomatic osteoarthritis.
Friday, October 17, 2014
Tennis Players and Tennis Elbow...
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common conditions seen in a sports medicine outpatient setting. We now know this condition is a chronic and degenerative condition of the extensor tendons over the outside aspect of the elbow. While not limited to only tennis players, this condition can be debilitating and a challenge to manage. Consider following these basic modifications if tennis elbow is affecting your tennis game...
-cut playing tennis down to less than two times per week
-consider changing the size of the racquet grip
-consider a more flexible racquet frame
-consider switching to a softer type of string material
-string tension should be under 56psi
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Vitamin D and Knee Arthritis...
The vital role of vitamin D in musculoskeletal health remains a hot topic. Many people in the Midwest are at risk for vitamin D deficiency. A recent study looked at the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and knee arthritis progression. The study concluded patients with a low vitamin D level had a two fold elevated risk of knee arthritis progression...
The vital role of vitamin D in musculoskeletal health remains a hot topic. Many people in the Midwest are at risk for vitamin D deficiency. A recent study looked at the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and knee arthritis progression. The study concluded patients with a low vitamin D level had a two fold elevated risk of knee arthritis progression...
Friday, October 10, 2014
Contact Athletes and Super Bugs...
A recent study found contact sport athletes more likely to be colonized with MRSA.
Findings presented at the annual meeting of the Infectious Diseases Society of America suggest that college athletes who play contact sports may be more likely than the general population to be colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylocuccus aureus (MRSA). The research team conducted a 2-year study of 377 male and female Vanderbilt University varsity athletes playing 14 different sports, 224 who played contact sports such as football, soccer, basketball, and lacrosse, and 153 who played noncontact sports such as baseball, cross country, and golf. They found that contact-sport athletes were more than twice as likely as noncontact athletes to be colonized with MRSA. Over the course of the study, MRSA colonization ranged from 8 percent to 31 percent among contact sports athletes, and 0 percent to 23 percent among noncontact athletes. About 5 percent to 10 percent of the general population is estimated to be colonized with MRSA.
A recent study found contact sport athletes more likely to be colonized with MRSA.
Findings presented at the annual meeting of the Infectious Diseases Society of America suggest that college athletes who play contact sports may be more likely than the general population to be colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylocuccus aureus (MRSA). The research team conducted a 2-year study of 377 male and female Vanderbilt University varsity athletes playing 14 different sports, 224 who played contact sports such as football, soccer, basketball, and lacrosse, and 153 who played noncontact sports such as baseball, cross country, and golf. They found that contact-sport athletes were more than twice as likely as noncontact athletes to be colonized with MRSA. Over the course of the study, MRSA colonization ranged from 8 percent to 31 percent among contact sports athletes, and 0 percent to 23 percent among noncontact athletes. About 5 percent to 10 percent of the general population is estimated to be colonized with MRSA.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Hamstring Injuries and Return to Athletics...
Hamstring injuries are no joke. When an athlete sustains a hamstring injury, the common question immediately following the injury involves when can the athlete return to athletic participation. A recent study showed a fairly broad range of return to sport. The study's average time to return to play was 44 +/- 18 days with a range of 8 and 80 days. In addition to hamstring injuries leading to a large amount of time away from athletics, re-injury rates are very high...
Hamstring injuries are no joke. When an athlete sustains a hamstring injury, the common question immediately following the injury involves when can the athlete return to athletic participation. A recent study showed a fairly broad range of return to sport. The study's average time to return to play was 44 +/- 18 days with a range of 8 and 80 days. In addition to hamstring injuries leading to a large amount of time away from athletics, re-injury rates are very high...
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Contemplating ACL Reconstruction?
Have you torn your ACL? Are you considering surgical reconstruction? According to new recommendations, do not wait too long if you intent on being very active. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) recently released a new evidence-based practice guideline for treating ACL tears. For patients who are candidates for surgery, the new guideline contains a recommendation to perform reconstructive knee surgery within 5 months of an ACL injury to protect the knee joint. Waiting too long can result in additional injury to the knee, such as meniscal tears and/or cartilage injury...
Have you torn your ACL? Are you considering surgical reconstruction? According to new recommendations, do not wait too long if you intent on being very active. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) recently released a new evidence-based practice guideline for treating ACL tears. For patients who are candidates for surgery, the new guideline contains a recommendation to perform reconstructive knee surgery within 5 months of an ACL injury to protect the knee joint. Waiting too long can result in additional injury to the knee, such as meniscal tears and/or cartilage injury...
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Total Joint Replacement Warranty?
A recent article in Modern Healthcare states one medical center may begin a program providing a warranty to privately insured patients regarding avoidable complications stemming from routine total joint arthroplasties (TJAs). The institution plans to cover the costs of avoidable, surgery-related complications if a patient undergoes all care—including diagnosis, surgery and rehabilitation—at the hospital, and is covered by a bundled-service contract with a private insurer or employer...
A recent article in Modern Healthcare states one medical center may begin a program providing a warranty to privately insured patients regarding avoidable complications stemming from routine total joint arthroplasties (TJAs). The institution plans to cover the costs of avoidable, surgery-related complications if a patient undergoes all care—including diagnosis, surgery and rehabilitation—at the hospital, and is covered by a bundled-service contract with a private insurer or employer...
Thursday, September 4, 2014
A Surgical Team of 130...
Recent research by the Cleveland Clinic showed that their average surgical patient encountered an average of 130 hospital employees from time of arrival until returning home. This staggering fact demonstrates how the delivery of surgical care is complex and truly a team effort. All members of this team, from the surgeon to the food services personnel, play a critical role in a surgical patient's recovery...
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
The Benefit of Hand Washing Programs...
A recent article showed hand washing programs used by hospitals have helped to lower infections. The increased effort by providers to wash their hands resulted in decreased surgical site infections, catheter associated bloodstream infections, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. One hospital saw a drop in hospital acquired infections by 38%...
A recent article showed hand washing programs used by hospitals have helped to lower infections. The increased effort by providers to wash their hands resulted in decreased surgical site infections, catheter associated bloodstream infections, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. One hospital saw a drop in hospital acquired infections by 38%...
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
The Large Impact of a Silence Bone Disease...
Osteoporosis, which can affect both men and women, results in about 1.5 million fractures each year in the United States. The majority of fractures occur in the spine, with about 700,000 per year. Other common areas fractured include the distal forearm/wrist ( about 250,000 per year) and hip fractures (about 250,000 per year). Through a multi-disciplinary treatment plan, patients can often improve their bone mineral density utilizing treatments such as: physical activity, medications, and dietary/vitamin supplementation.
Osteoporosis, which can affect both men and women, results in about 1.5 million fractures each year in the United States. The majority of fractures occur in the spine, with about 700,000 per year. Other common areas fractured include the distal forearm/wrist ( about 250,000 per year) and hip fractures (about 250,000 per year). Through a multi-disciplinary treatment plan, patients can often improve their bone mineral density utilizing treatments such as: physical activity, medications, and dietary/vitamin supplementation.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Higher ACL Reconstruction Failure Rate Found With Allograft In Young Athletes...
A recent study presented at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine found that young athletes with ACL surgery using cadaver grafts had a failure rate three times higher compared with athletes undergoing reconstruction with their own hamstring graft. The average age of the patients in they study was 29 years. Failure rate for cadaver grafts was 26.5%, while 8.5% for autografts...
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Are You At Risk For Knee Replacement?
A recent study found that a high body mass index (BMI) and intensive physical activity at work both contribute to the risk of having a knee replacement. The two risk factors appear to act independently. However, people with strenuous physical work and with a high body mass index are particularly at high risk for the development of degenerative joint disease of the knee.
A recent study found that a high body mass index (BMI) and intensive physical activity at work both contribute to the risk of having a knee replacement. The two risk factors appear to act independently. However, people with strenuous physical work and with a high body mass index are particularly at high risk for the development of degenerative joint disease of the knee.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Shoulder Pain? Get Your Rotator Cuff Checked...
Rotator cuff disease ranks among one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders. Rotator cuff disease, which can cause pain, increases with age. About 25% of the adults will experience a rotator cuff tear at some point in their lives. By the age of 60, 25% of people have a rotator cuff tear on MRI, but only 5-40% are symptomatic. By the age of 80, 50% of people have a rotator cuff tear on MRI. Luckily, there are many treatment options available for rotator cuff disease, ranging from physical therapy to surgery...
Rotator cuff disease ranks among one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders. Rotator cuff disease, which can cause pain, increases with age. About 25% of the adults will experience a rotator cuff tear at some point in their lives. By the age of 60, 25% of people have a rotator cuff tear on MRI, but only 5-40% are symptomatic. By the age of 80, 50% of people have a rotator cuff tear on MRI. Luckily, there are many treatment options available for rotator cuff disease, ranging from physical therapy to surgery...
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
As Football Season Approaches, Remember the Importance of Mouthguards...
A properly fitted mouthguard can prevent significant injuries to the teeth, lips, gums, and jaws. Non-mouthguard users are 1.6 to 1.9 times more likely to experience a dental injury compared to mouthguard users. The role mouthguards in preventing concussions is still debatable and under active research.
Here are some tips for a properly fitted mouthguard. It should:
-adequately cover and protect the teeth and surrounding tissues
-stay in position during impact
-be at least 3mm thick in all areas
-not interfere with breathing
A properly fitted mouthguard can prevent significant injuries to the teeth, lips, gums, and jaws. Non-mouthguard users are 1.6 to 1.9 times more likely to experience a dental injury compared to mouthguard users. The role mouthguards in preventing concussions is still debatable and under active research.
Here are some tips for a properly fitted mouthguard. It should:
-adequately cover and protect the teeth and surrounding tissues
-stay in position during impact
-be at least 3mm thick in all areas
-not interfere with breathing
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Avoid Little League Shoulder This Fall...
Little league shoulder (LLS), or proximal humeral epiphysiolysis, is being diagnosed more often by orthopaedic surgeons. LLS is an overuse injury to the growth area of the shoulder joint. New research shows LLS occurs in patients ranging from 8-17 years old and occurs 97% of the time in males. Baseball pitchers and tennis players are at most risk. Treatment of LLS continues to focus on rest and physical therapy, but symptoms can recur. Continuing to participate in pain can result in growth arrest of the growth plate or fracture. Ways to avoid LLS include proper throwing mechanics, proper rest, and the identification and treatment of range of motion asymmetries between shoulders. Table 1 below, courtesy of Little League Baseball, provides recommended pitch counts and rest periods.
Little league shoulder (LLS), or proximal humeral epiphysiolysis, is being diagnosed more often by orthopaedic surgeons. LLS is an overuse injury to the growth area of the shoulder joint. New research shows LLS occurs in patients ranging from 8-17 years old and occurs 97% of the time in males. Baseball pitchers and tennis players are at most risk. Treatment of LLS continues to focus on rest and physical therapy, but symptoms can recur. Continuing to participate in pain can result in growth arrest of the growth plate or fracture. Ways to avoid LLS include proper throwing mechanics, proper rest, and the identification and treatment of range of motion asymmetries between shoulders. Table 1 below, courtesy of Little League Baseball, provides recommended pitch counts and rest periods.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
PRP May Not Provide Any Magic For Rotator Cuff Repair...
A recent study performed in Brazil suggested that the addition of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to an arthroscopically repaired rotator cuff tendon did not promote better clinical results at 2 year follow-up. While PRP continues to remain a hot topic in orthopaedics, this further demonstrates that continued study and research is warranted...
A recent study performed in Brazil suggested that the addition of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to an arthroscopically repaired rotator cuff tendon did not promote better clinical results at 2 year follow-up. While PRP continues to remain a hot topic in orthopaedics, this further demonstrates that continued study and research is warranted...
Friday, August 1, 2014
New Promise For Hamstring Injury...
A small published study in The American Journal of Sports Medicine suggested that an injection of platelet rich plasma (PRP) combined with physical therapy may offer quicker return to sports compared to physical therapy alone. Patients receiving the injection and physical therapy returned to sports after 26.7 days, while patients receiving therapy only returned after 42.5 days...
A small published study in The American Journal of Sports Medicine suggested that an injection of platelet rich plasma (PRP) combined with physical therapy may offer quicker return to sports compared to physical therapy alone. Patients receiving the injection and physical therapy returned to sports after 26.7 days, while patients receiving therapy only returned after 42.5 days...
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Football Helmet Brand and Concussions...
A recent study suggests that helmet brand may not affect the incidence of concussion among high school football players. The study involved 2,081 players grades 9 to 12. They found that 206 players (9 percent) sustained a total of 211 concussions. There was no significant difference in concussion incidence among players wearing any one of three brands of helmet, nor was helmet age and recondition status linked to increased incidence of concussion. However, players were more likely to sustain a concussion if they wore a custom mouth guard or had a sports-related concussion in the previous 12 months.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
The Weekend Warrior and Physical Changes...
The aging weekend warrior often continues to have a competitive spirit. Further, physical expectations can remain high despite a decrease in training and level of physical fitness. The weekend warrior must remember that as the body ages, some well established physical changes take place. Generally, a marked decline in athletic performance begins around age 35. For example with age, there is a decline in function of the pulmonary/lung and nervous systems. The weekend warrior must accept that these changes can result in decreased reaction time, deterioration of balance, and loss of muscle mass. While these facts are difficult to accept, acknowledgement will allow the weekend warrior to adapt expectations and hopefully create a training regime focusing on both performance and injury prevention...
The aging weekend warrior often continues to have a competitive spirit. Further, physical expectations can remain high despite a decrease in training and level of physical fitness. The weekend warrior must remember that as the body ages, some well established physical changes take place. Generally, a marked decline in athletic performance begins around age 35. For example with age, there is a decline in function of the pulmonary/lung and nervous systems. The weekend warrior must accept that these changes can result in decreased reaction time, deterioration of balance, and loss of muscle mass. While these facts are difficult to accept, acknowledgement will allow the weekend warrior to adapt expectations and hopefully create a training regime focusing on both performance and injury prevention...
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
The Weekend Warrior...
Around many fitness and orthopaedic circles, the term "weekend warrior" is often used. Do you ever wonder if that term applies to you? Well, the classic "weekend warrior" is a person who compresses weekly, moderate-to-vigorous activity into long durations (150 minutes or more) on only 1 to 2 days a week. The warrior is aged 45-64 years. The term is often used among orthopaedic surgeons because "weekend warriors" are at risk for various musculoskeletal injuries, such as Achilles tendon ruptures...
Around many fitness and orthopaedic circles, the term "weekend warrior" is often used. Do you ever wonder if that term applies to you? Well, the classic "weekend warrior" is a person who compresses weekly, moderate-to-vigorous activity into long durations (150 minutes or more) on only 1 to 2 days a week. The warrior is aged 45-64 years. The term is often used among orthopaedic surgeons because "weekend warriors" are at risk for various musculoskeletal injuries, such as Achilles tendon ruptures...
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Being Overweight is Linked to Increased Risk of Total Knee Replacement...
The number of total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries more than tripled between 1993 and 2009, while the number of total hip replacements (THR) doubled during the same time period. A recent study found that an increase in the prevalence of being overweight and obese in the US accounted for 95% of the higher demand for knee replacements, with younger patients affected to a greater degree...
The number of total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries more than tripled between 1993 and 2009, while the number of total hip replacements (THR) doubled during the same time period. A recent study found that an increase in the prevalence of being overweight and obese in the US accounted for 95% of the higher demand for knee replacements, with younger patients affected to a greater degree...
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
The ACL Injury Epidemic...
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a ligament located in the central aspect of the knee. The ACL is a critical stabilizer to the knee, allowing cutting, pivoting, and change of direction. There are over 300,000 ACL injuries per year in the US. These injuries can be devastating, as some studies have should only 44% of athletes are able to return to competition after ACL surgery. While men still sustain the majority of ACL injuries, the number of injuries in women continue to climb at an alarming rate. Fortunately through years of research, the orthopaedic community has developed various injury prevention programs that have been proven to decrease the rates of ACL injury.
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a ligament located in the central aspect of the knee. The ACL is a critical stabilizer to the knee, allowing cutting, pivoting, and change of direction. There are over 300,000 ACL injuries per year in the US. These injuries can be devastating, as some studies have should only 44% of athletes are able to return to competition after ACL surgery. While men still sustain the majority of ACL injuries, the number of injuries in women continue to climb at an alarming rate. Fortunately through years of research, the orthopaedic community has developed various injury prevention programs that have been proven to decrease the rates of ACL injury.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Golfing This Summer?
Golf can be a source of moderate exercise, as walking a typical 18-hole course can involve walking 4 miles. However, golf can be associated with some common injuries. Overall, golf is considered a low risk sport. Yet some common injuries can include: low back pain, elbow injuries, wrist injuries, and shoulder injuries. Minimize your chance of injury by following these simple tips: properly warm up before a round of golf, utilize proper and efficient swing mechanics, and follow a regular exercise program all year.
Golf can be a source of moderate exercise, as walking a typical 18-hole course can involve walking 4 miles. However, golf can be associated with some common injuries. Overall, golf is considered a low risk sport. Yet some common injuries can include: low back pain, elbow injuries, wrist injuries, and shoulder injuries. Minimize your chance of injury by following these simple tips: properly warm up before a round of golf, utilize proper and efficient swing mechanics, and follow a regular exercise program all year.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Tennis Elbow Flare Up?
In the past, there has been some discussion regarding the possibility of increasing the racket's grip size to decrease tennis elbow symptoms. Investigators at the University of Southern California measured how a players' muscles contracted during a backhand swing using three different grip sizes. There was no difference in the muscle action for three different tested grip sizes. Therefore, focus more on poor swing mechanics, which is a bigger risk factor for tennis elbow...
In the past, there has been some discussion regarding the possibility of increasing the racket's grip size to decrease tennis elbow symptoms. Investigators at the University of Southern California measured how a players' muscles contracted during a backhand swing using three different grip sizes. There was no difference in the muscle action for three different tested grip sizes. Therefore, focus more on poor swing mechanics, which is a bigger risk factor for tennis elbow...
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Not "Just" An Ankle Sprain...
Ankle sprains are common and the majority are simple. An ankle sprain should never be regarded as a minor injury, as lack of orthopaedic treatment or inappropriate treatment can lead to chronic problems with recurring pain, swelling, repeat injuries, and even the development of arthritis. A thorough orthopaedic evaluation is the ideal way to develop a sound diagnosis and treatment plan. Seeking treatment often facilitates recovery and can often times prevent reinjury.
Ankle sprains are common and the majority are simple. An ankle sprain should never be regarded as a minor injury, as lack of orthopaedic treatment or inappropriate treatment can lead to chronic problems with recurring pain, swelling, repeat injuries, and even the development of arthritis. A thorough orthopaedic evaluation is the ideal way to develop a sound diagnosis and treatment plan. Seeking treatment often facilitates recovery and can often times prevent reinjury.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Hamstring Injury...
Introduction
Hamstring injuries are common injuries in football, baseball, running sports, rugby, and soccer. In fact, an acute hamstring strain is believed to be the most common injury in adult male soccer players. Acute hamstring strains usually require a 2- to 6-week absence from sports, and they have a high recurrence rate.
Prevention
Identifying athletes with hamstring strength imbalances and correcting them and having athletes perform agility and trunk stabilization programs may be beneficial. Given the amount of hamstring strains occurring in preseason, athletes athletes should enhance their sport-specific conditioning prior to the early training sessions.
Introduction
Hamstring injuries are common injuries in football, baseball, running sports, rugby, and soccer. In fact, an acute hamstring strain is believed to be the most common injury in adult male soccer players. Acute hamstring strains usually require a 2- to 6-week absence from sports, and they have a high recurrence rate.
How does a hamstring injury happen?
Acute hamstring strains are often noncontact injuries. Sprinting is a common activity leading to injury.
Acute hamstring strains are often noncontact injuries. Sprinting is a common activity leading to injury.
What are the risk factors?
The risk for acute hamstring strain increases with age and levels of competition. Other risk factors include imbalances in hamstring strength, decreased flexibility of the hip flexors, and higher body weight.
The risk for acute hamstring strain increases with age and levels of competition. Other risk factors include imbalances in hamstring strength, decreased flexibility of the hip flexors, and higher body weight.
Identifying athletes with hamstring strength imbalances and correcting them and having athletes perform agility and trunk stabilization programs may be beneficial. Given the amount of hamstring strains occurring in preseason, athletes athletes should enhance their sport-specific conditioning prior to the early training sessions.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Common Pediatric Sports and Recreational Injuries...
Every year, more than 38 million children and adolescents participate in organized sports in the United States, with even more involved in informal recreational activities. More than 2.6 million of these children aged 19 years and younger are treated in emergency departments annually for injuries related to sports and recreation. The most common of these are sprains and strains, bone and growth plate injuries, repetitive motion injuries, heat-related illness, and concussions. Other conditions of concern include cardiopulmonary conditions, infections, and exposure to certain insect species.
Every year, more than 38 million children and adolescents participate in organized sports in the United States, with even more involved in informal recreational activities. More than 2.6 million of these children aged 19 years and younger are treated in emergency departments annually for injuries related to sports and recreation. The most common of these are sprains and strains, bone and growth plate injuries, repetitive motion injuries, heat-related illness, and concussions. Other conditions of concern include cardiopulmonary conditions, infections, and exposure to certain insect species.
Knee Arthritis? Walk It Off...
A recent study suggested that increased walking may be linked with reduced risk of functional limitation for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The research team evaluated the association of steps/day at baseline with the development of functional limitation 2 years later among 1,788 participants with a mean age of 67 years. They found that each additional 1,000 steps/day was associated with a 16 percent reduction in incident functional limitation by performance-based measures and an 18 percent reduction by self-reported measures. The research team noted that walking at least 6,000 steps/day was the best threshold to distinguish incident functional limitation by performance-based measures.
A recent study suggested that increased walking may be linked with reduced risk of functional limitation for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The research team evaluated the association of steps/day at baseline with the development of functional limitation 2 years later among 1,788 participants with a mean age of 67 years. They found that each additional 1,000 steps/day was associated with a 16 percent reduction in incident functional limitation by performance-based measures and an 18 percent reduction by self-reported measures. The research team noted that walking at least 6,000 steps/day was the best threshold to distinguish incident functional limitation by performance-based measures.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Monday, June 9, 2014
Common Youth Hockey Injuries...
According to findings published online in the journal Pediatrics, fractures and concussions are the most frequent injuries seen among youth ice hockey players. The research team reviewed records on 168 injuries to 155 children aged 18 years or younger with ice hockey-related injuries who were seen at a single, level 1 pediatric trauma center in Minnesota. Overall, extremity injuries were the most common, followed by traumatic brain injury (TBI), with injuries to the spine, face, and trunk being less common.
According to findings published online in the journal Pediatrics, fractures and concussions are the most frequent injuries seen among youth ice hockey players. The research team reviewed records on 168 injuries to 155 children aged 18 years or younger with ice hockey-related injuries who were seen at a single, level 1 pediatric trauma center in Minnesota. Overall, extremity injuries were the most common, followed by traumatic brain injury (TBI), with injuries to the spine, face, and trunk being less common.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
What is a Baker's Cyst of the Knee?
A Baker's cyst (aka popliteal cyst) is a fluid filled herniation of the capsule surrounding the knee joint. These cysts are found in the back of the knee and vary in size. They can fluctuate in size and can be associated with injuries inside the knee, such as a meniscal tear. The treatment can range from simple clinical observation to arthroscopic procedures to address the pathology within the knee...
A Baker's cyst (aka popliteal cyst) is a fluid filled herniation of the capsule surrounding the knee joint. These cysts are found in the back of the knee and vary in size. They can fluctuate in size and can be associated with injuries inside the knee, such as a meniscal tear. The treatment can range from simple clinical observation to arthroscopic procedures to address the pathology within the knee...
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Patellofemoral Pain... A Common Source of Knee Pain...
Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is commonly seen in physically active individuals and may account for 25–40% of all knee problems seen in a sports injury clinic. Patellofemoral-related problems occur more frequently in women than in men. PFP is characterised by diffuse pain over the anterior aspect of the knee and is aggravated by activities that increase patellofemoral joint (PFJ) compressive forces, such as squatting, ascending and descending stairs and prolonged sitting, as well as repetitive activities such as running. One easy way to help relieve PFP pain is to stretch the hamstring muscles...
Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is commonly seen in physically active individuals and may account for 25–40% of all knee problems seen in a sports injury clinic. Patellofemoral-related problems occur more frequently in women than in men. PFP is characterised by diffuse pain over the anterior aspect of the knee and is aggravated by activities that increase patellofemoral joint (PFJ) compressive forces, such as squatting, ascending and descending stairs and prolonged sitting, as well as repetitive activities such as running. One easy way to help relieve PFP pain is to stretch the hamstring muscles...
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Subacromial Impingement...A Common Cause of Shoulder Pain...
Some have estimated that 1 in 3 adults will deal with shoulder pain at some point...
Subacromail impingement syndrome (SIS) is the most frequent cause of shoulder pain in adults. SIS often manifests as pain during forward elevation of the arm, which often results in the soft tissue of the shoulder getting pinched in between surrounding bony structures. SIS is typically treated initially with physical therapy and sometimes injection therapy.
Some have estimated that 1 in 3 adults will deal with shoulder pain at some point...
Subacromail impingement syndrome (SIS) is the most frequent cause of shoulder pain in adults. SIS often manifests as pain during forward elevation of the arm, which often results in the soft tissue of the shoulder getting pinched in between surrounding bony structures. SIS is typically treated initially with physical therapy and sometimes injection therapy.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Overuse Injuries and Burnout in Youth Sports...
Youth sport participation offers many benefits including the development of self-esteem, peer socialization and general fitness. However, an emphasis on competitive success, often driven by goals of elite-level travel team selection, collegiate scholarships, Olympic and National team membership and even professional contracts, has seemingly become widespread. This has resulted in an increased pressure to begin high-intensity training at young ages. Such an excessive focus on early intensive training and competition at young ages rather than skill development can lead to overuse injury and burnout.
Prevention of Overuse...
Limiting weekly and yearly participation time, limits on sport-specific repetitive movements (eg, pitching limits) and scheduled rest periods are recommended (B). Such modifications need to be individualized based on the sport and the athlete's age, growth rate, readiness and injury history (C). Careful monitoring of training workload during the adolescent growth spurt is recommended, as injury risk seems to be greater during this phase (B). This apparent increased risk may be related to a number of factors including diminished size-adjusted bone mineral density, asynchronous growth patterns, relative weakness of growth cartilage and physeal vascular susceptibility. Preseason conditioning programs can reduce injury rates in young athletes (B). Prepractice neuromuscular training can reduce lower extremity injuries (B). Given the altered biomechanics that may occur with ill-fitting equipment, proper sizing and resizing of equipment is recommended, although date are lacking that demonstrate a link to injury (C). To reduce the likelihood of burnout, an emphasis should be placed on skill development more than competition and winning (C).
Br J Sports Med 2014;48:287-288 doi:10.1136/bjsports-2013-093299
Youth sport participation offers many benefits including the development of self-esteem, peer socialization and general fitness. However, an emphasis on competitive success, often driven by goals of elite-level travel team selection, collegiate scholarships, Olympic and National team membership and even professional contracts, has seemingly become widespread. This has resulted in an increased pressure to begin high-intensity training at young ages. Such an excessive focus on early intensive training and competition at young ages rather than skill development can lead to overuse injury and burnout.
Prevention of Overuse...
Limiting weekly and yearly participation time, limits on sport-specific repetitive movements (eg, pitching limits) and scheduled rest periods are recommended (B). Such modifications need to be individualized based on the sport and the athlete's age, growth rate, readiness and injury history (C). Careful monitoring of training workload during the adolescent growth spurt is recommended, as injury risk seems to be greater during this phase (B). This apparent increased risk may be related to a number of factors including diminished size-adjusted bone mineral density, asynchronous growth patterns, relative weakness of growth cartilage and physeal vascular susceptibility. Preseason conditioning programs can reduce injury rates in young athletes (B). Prepractice neuromuscular training can reduce lower extremity injuries (B). Given the altered biomechanics that may occur with ill-fitting equipment, proper sizing and resizing of equipment is recommended, although date are lacking that demonstrate a link to injury (C). To reduce the likelihood of burnout, an emphasis should be placed on skill development more than competition and winning (C).
Thursday, March 27, 2014
One More Reason Why Vitamin D Is Important...
Vitamin D is important for bone, cartilage, and muscle function. A recent study demonstrated that Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the worsening of knee and hip pain. The study concluded that perhaps correcting Vitamin D deficiency in the elderly may improve knee and hip pain.
Vitamin D is important for bone, cartilage, and muscle function. A recent study demonstrated that Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the worsening of knee and hip pain. The study concluded that perhaps correcting Vitamin D deficiency in the elderly may improve knee and hip pain.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Barefoot Running...
Experts have proposed that running barefoot can lead to improved strength and proprioception. A recent study examined the changes seen after an 8 week training program involving barefoot running. The study did not show statistically significant changes in strength and proprioception after 8 weeks of barefoot training. However, the authors argued it may take months or years to observe these changes.
Tip: Remember barefoot running can be a valuable training tool, however when utilized improperly, it can lead to an increase in injury, such as stress fractures.
Experts have proposed that running barefoot can lead to improved strength and proprioception. A recent study examined the changes seen after an 8 week training program involving barefoot running. The study did not show statistically significant changes in strength and proprioception after 8 weeks of barefoot training. However, the authors argued it may take months or years to observe these changes.
Tip: Remember barefoot running can be a valuable training tool, however when utilized improperly, it can lead to an increase in injury, such as stress fractures.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Runners Beware...
Achilles tendon insertional tendinopathy is a common condition in runners and sports needing short bursts or push-off. The average age of presentation is 44 years of age. This is a degenerative condition of the Achilles tendon insertion on the heel bone. The posterior heel pain is often worse after activity, but can become constant. Initial treatment often includes: activity modification, anti-inflammatories, shoe modifications, a heel lift, or a brief period of immobilization. 85-90% of patients improve with conservative care. For severe and chronic cases, surgical debridement may be considered.
NJF
Achilles tendon insertional tendinopathy is a common condition in runners and sports needing short bursts or push-off. The average age of presentation is 44 years of age. This is a degenerative condition of the Achilles tendon insertion on the heel bone. The posterior heel pain is often worse after activity, but can become constant. Initial treatment often includes: activity modification, anti-inflammatories, shoe modifications, a heel lift, or a brief period of immobilization. 85-90% of patients improve with conservative care. For severe and chronic cases, surgical debridement may be considered.
NJF
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Pediatric Sports Injuries...
A Comparison of Males Versus Females...
A recent study compared the amount of pediatric sports injuries in males versus females. The findings were interesting...
-female athletes had a higher percentage of overuse injuries (62.5%) compared with traumatic injuries (37.5%); the opposite was seen in male athletes (41.9% vs 58.2%, respectively; P < .001)
-female athletes sustained more injuries to the lower extremity (65.8%) and spine (11.3%) as compared with male athletes (53.7% and 8.2%, respectively)
-the percentage of females with patellofemoral knee pain was approximately 3 times greater than that of males (14.3% vs 4.0%, respectively;P < .001)
-the percentage of males and females who sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury was almost equal (10.0% and 8.9%, respectively; P= .369)
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Little
League Overuse Throwing Injuries
As youth participation in baseball
continues to remain popular, the occurrence of upper extremity overuse injuries
continues to increase. Further, there is
an increasing trend for youngsters to specialize in and train year round for a
single sport at an early age. Such a
high level of intensity and demand for advanced athletic skills throughout the
years of skeletal growth have raised concerns about risk and severity of injury
in young athletes.
Young athletes are risk for unique
types of overuse injuries due to the presence of multiple growth plates
throughout the entire skeleton. These
growth plates are composed of cartilage, which is softer and more vulnerable to
injury than more mature bones. In the
upper extremity, both the upper arm bone called the humerus and the bones of
the forearm called the radius and ulna have multiple growth plates close to the
shoulder and elbow joints that are prone to overuse injuries in overhead
athletes, such as baseball players. Repetitive activities, such as throwing
baseballs, can overload the susceptible growth plates of the immature upper
extremity and result in growth plate irritation, inflammation, and pain. If improperly treated, growth plate disturbance
as a result of overuse injury may lead to irreversible alterations in normal
bone growth patterns, which can lead to altered joint mechanics. This can ultimately lead to significant
long-term pain and disability.
Young baseball players participating
in repetitive overhead throwing, such as pitchers, are at risk for growth plate
injuries around the shoulder and elbow.
The overuse condition called “Little League Shoulder”, also know as
proximal humeral epiphysitis, results in pain in the upper arm or
shoulder. While the overuse condition
call “Little League Elbow” results in pain in the elbow. Children with these injuries will have
shoulder or elbow pain when throwing.
These athletes may also be sore for a few days after participation and
may notice loss of throwing velocity or control. Further, swelling and tenderness around the
shoulder or elbow may be present. Such
injuries may be a source of discomfort and time lost from training or
competition.
Severe pain around a joint may be a
symptom of growth plate injury, which may require prompt evaluation and
treatment by a physician. Orthopedic
physicians diagnose these injuries by listening to the history and performing a
physical examination. Further, x-rays
may be helpful to demonstrate widening or a break in the growth plate. The most effective treatment for “Little
League Shoulder” and “Little League Elbow” is rest from throwing so the growth
plate can heal. The addition of physical
therapy may also help improve the strength of the shoulder and elbow and
prevent re-injury. A young athlete should never be expected to or allowed to
“throw through the pain,” as such mistreatment may lead to a limited throwing
career and chronic pain as an adult. An
athlete typically can return throwing again once they have full strength and
full range of motion of the shoulder or elbow.
Often times, many coaches of youth
sports are enthusiastic and well meaning volunteers, yet they are also
typically uninformed about the growth and development of children and
appropriate injury preventative strategies.
Therefore, it is critical for the caregivers of youth participating in
athletics to educate themselves and the athlete about potential growth plate
injury and precautionary tactics.
Ultimately, the best way to prevent “Little League Shoulder” and “Little
League Elbow” is to follow recommended guidelines for appropriate pitch count
limits and proper rest between pitching appearances. Please refer below for further preventative
tips and pitch count recommendations.
Tips for Parents:
-emphasize the
benefits of year-round physical fitness, while also emphasizing the importance
of appropriate rest and training variety
-allow your child
to pitch in only one league in a single season and play baseball only two seasons
of the year
-do not allow your
child to play through pain
-consult an
orthopedic physician if your child’s throwing injuries are not relieved by four
days of rest and ice
Tips for Pitchers:
-appropriately
warm up before all athletic participation and throwing
-remain physically
fit all year and incorporate a supervised resistance training program that
focuses on total body fitness, including leg and core strengthening
-do not practice
pitching after the game
-rest your arm for
at least 24 hours after pitching
Pitch Count Recommendations:
9- to 10-Year Old
Pitcher:
50 pitches a game
75 pitches a week
1,000 pitches a
season
2,000 pitches a
year
11- to 12-Year Old
Pitcher:
75 pitches a game
100 pitches a week
1,000 pitches a season
3,000 pitches a year
13- to 15-Year Old
Pitcher:
75 pitches a game
125 pitches a week
1,000 pitches a season
3,000 pitches a year
16-Year Old or
Older Pitcher:
Needs an
individualized program based on skill level and input from trainers, coaches,
and an orthopaedic physician
Monday, March 3, 2014
Early Spring Fitness Tips...
As spring nears, you might be tempted to get outside and train as soon as the weather improves. You may also be tempted to exercise at the same level you did at the end of the last season. However, such enthusiasm can lead to preventable injuries. Here are some tips for avoiding sports injuries as you increase your activity this spring.
-increase training session duration and frequency slowly
-do not exercise in pain
-vary your mode of exercise through cross training
Good Luck...
Dr. Fanter
As spring nears, you might be tempted to get outside and train as soon as the weather improves. You may also be tempted to exercise at the same level you did at the end of the last season. However, such enthusiasm can lead to preventable injuries. Here are some tips for avoiding sports injuries as you increase your activity this spring.
-increase training session duration and frequency slowly
-do not exercise in pain
-vary your mode of exercise through cross training
Good Luck...
Dr. Fanter
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