Blog Articles

Start 2025 pain-free with these 5 expert tips to improve joint health, featuring low-impact exercises, anti-inflammatory diets, and professional care options in South Florida.

A misalignment of the second joints of the middle toes and hammertoe can cause pain, stiffness, redness, and swelling. Without treatment, the toes may lose flexibility, making your feet more prone to forming corns and calluses.

Morning neck pain often results from sleep habits that compromise support for the head and neck, leading to pain and stiffness when you wake. This might also be a sign of a degenerative condition like arthritis.

Your first physical therapy session may be hard to anticipate. Fortunately, you can prepare to be ready for a range of treatments while also making things easier for your therapist. Your preparations can make your recovery easier. 

Impingement happens when the tissues of the rotator cuff get pinched between the shoulder blade and humerus, the two shoulder bones that the cuff supports. Pain and restricted mobility are the primary symptoms of the condition.

One of the most common reasons for hand pain stems from compression of the median nerve as it passes through a channel in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is tight for space, making it easy to compress and irritate nerve tissue.

In its broadest terms, regenerative medicine is any intervention or therapy that enhances the body’s ability to heal itself fundamentally rather than treating symptoms with procedures and medications.

Workplace injury laws place responsibilities on workers, employers, and medical practitioners. Designed to help protect and insure workers, these laws require you to report your injuries and file claims in a timely manner.

Ankle sprains are a common orthopedic injury for people of all ages, including children. Recovery from a sprain depends largely on the severity of the original injury, and physical therapy is usually a part of treatment.

A disorder of the tendons in your hand and their ability to move freely, the colorfully named trigger finger may affect any finger or thumb. It can sometimes leave a patient looking like they’re pulling the trigger on an invisible pistol.

Sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, and fast changes of direction raise the risk of damage to a ligament that stretches diagonally across the middle of the knee. Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament can sideline you for months.

Is your neck pain causing your headache? Or is it your headache causing problems in your neck? There’s no easy answer since it could be either of these, or it might also be two separate issues.

The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body and one of the most complex. The bones, muscles, and other support tissues give these joints amazing mobility and strength, though they can often prove difficult to treat when things go wrong.

When you suffer from chronic pain, everything you can do to help ease pain is welcome. This can even extend to the foods you eat. Consider this your Eat This, Not That, Pain Management Edition

Muscle strains range from minor overstretching to partial or full tearing of tissue. Your rehab period depends on the extent of your injury. Here’s what you can expect for the most common strained muscle injuries.

Casts are a necessary treatment device when your child has a broken bone or other condition that requires immobilization of a body part to aid healing. Kids being kids, it’s sometimes a challenge to keep the cast clean.

Chronic pain can be a complex medical issue. Sometimes it stems from degenerative diseases like arthritis while other times it’s a result of malfunctioning nerves. In most cases, stretching and physical activity can help you cope.

Pain often stems from inflammation in the body, so any treatment that effectively reverses swollen tissue can help make life more comfortable. Steroid injections provide pinpoint control over anti-inflammatory activity. Let’s take a closer look.

When you’re seeking to maintain or build muscle mass, your diet plays an important role in the process. Chances are you won’t need to make major changes to the way you eat, but a few menu tweaks can help you achieve your goals.

The easiest pain to deal with is the pain that you avoid. The same is true for your children, but they don’t have the same life experience to sidestep obstacles that you’d recognize. Here are some tips for helping your child avoid falls.

Two pieces of cartilage cushion the bones of your legs where they come together at the knees. Twisting or rotating your knee under a full load of body can tear one of these pads, called a meniscus. In some cases, you’ll require surgery to heal.

Joint pain occurs from both acute injuries and degenerative conditions like arthritis. Though in pain, controlled movement of the joint may be a crucial part of your recovery. Physical therapy offers a range of benefits to relieve your discomfort.

The head forward posture used to view digital screens on computers, tablets, and smartphones creates a literal pain called tech neck. Problems can sneak up on you and without care and attention, tech neck can cause long-term spinal damage.

While joint replacement surgery can be life changing, it’s still a major event that requires careful planning. Timing a hip replacement demands the balance of a range of factors, usually decided in discussions between patient and surgeon.

No one looks forward to being hurt on the job. In Florida, most employers purchase worker’s compensation insurance coverage to protect their employees in the event of an accident. A claim can cover lost wages and medical care.

Sports injuries are common, even among people who don’t play sports. Learn more about sports injuries and how you can spare yourself from long-term pain.

Having a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan isn’t an everyday experience. The machine may seem more movie set than medical equipment, with a soundtrack of loud mechanical noises. It can be a frightening experience for a child.

In the wake of the opioid crisis, patients and doctors alike search for pain management and healing solutions that don’t rely on side effect-laden medications. Platelet-rich plasma therapy is safe and all-natural, providing a popular alternative.

Physical activity is essential to good health at every stage of life. However, the joint pain associated with arthritis may make you avoid movement, although certain types of exercise can help reduce your arthritis symptoms.

When the shoulder deteriorates to the point where pain and movement restrictions interfere with your daily life, you may consider choosing shoulder replacement surgery. Not everyone is a candidate though. Here’s what you need to know.

While pain is a part of life, it usually comes and goes with injury, illness, and healing. Ongoing chronic pain can last for months or even years, destroying the quality of your life. Effective pain management can return the sunshine to your days.

As an athlete, you know that staying in the game means keeping your body healthy and strong. But did you know that involves your bones, too? Here’s why bone health is important, and how you can keep your bones in tip-top shape.

After a serious injury, you should work closely with an orthopedic doctor to carefully plan a return to running. While limiting activity too much can compromise strength, endurance, and flexibility, getting back to your regular regimen too soon can...

Numbness, weakness, and tingling in the hands often signify carpal tunnel syndrome. Explore these symptoms and the importance of seeking prompt care. Carpal tunnel syndrome results in pain, weakness, tingling, and numbness caused by the compression of...

You may be surprised to learn that you will be encouraged to begin moving around very soon after your knee replacement surgery. Whether at our facility or at home, walking and completing knee-strengthening exercises are a critical part of your...

After a hip replacement, you should perform rehabilitation exercises to promote healing and muscle strength. Below is a list of activities that can be beneficial for your recovery after a hip replacement. Quad Sets The quadriceps are muscles that...

It is our goal to keep you informed as to changes and updates regarding the COVID-19 pandemic locally as it affects our business, staff, and patients. 360 Orthopedics is considered a medically essential service and to that end, we continue to serve our...

The Coronavirus is making people understandably anxious and fearful. As an essential medical service, we would like you to know what 360 Orthopedics is doing to keep our staff and patients safe while we treat patients requiring orthopedic treatment...

As we write this, the world is social distancing to avoid COVID 19 and helping to”flatten the curve”. There will be good news on the horizon in the future when we are able to communicate again in person and the news below is of particular interest for...

These are the best of times. These are the worst of times. Now that we have your attention and with apologies to Charles Dickens, that’s how it feels lately. The recent Coronavirus pandemic has brought everyone and everything to a screeching halt,...

360 ORTHOPEDICS is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeffrey A. Silverstein, MD as Chief of Surgery at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota. Dr Silverstein is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee reconstruction.

Did you know dancing is one of the most fun activities you can do that has multiple health benefits? Consider this … dancing: • Strengthens bones and tones muscles • Improves balance, coordination, and agility • Increases memory function...

Sarasota, FL, February 20, 2019 360-ORTHOPEDICS will once again partner with two local non-profit organizations in raising money and awareness for each group. 360 Orthopedic supports several local non-profit organizations throughout the year...

According to a study by the NCBI, 18-26% of adults experience shoulder pain or stiffness. Stretching your shoulders and back can help relieve joint pain. Your shoulders do a lot of work each day, whether you’re lifting, carrying, or pulling items.

Having a back injury can be unpleasant and uncomfortable. Learn ways to help you get dressed more easily so you can put this worry aside as you heal. Dealing with a back injury can be frustrating and inconvenient, and getting dressed is one of the...

We’re talking about the sports obsession of Pickleball. The sport, a combination of ping-pong, badminton, and tennis, has caught on in a big way, particularly in Florida where retirees seek to remain active. Pickleball experienced a surge in popularity...

Technically no, however consider this: Reuters Health compared the “challenges and demands” of a marching band “geek” to those of a football athlete. Typically high school marching bands begin practice in summer prior to the school year and their...

PRP, or Platelet Rich Plasma, is a revolutionary and conservative approach to natural healing. You may have heard about PRP from professional athletes who have used this regenerative therapy to get “back in the game” sooner than with traditional methods.

Did you know dogs are good for your overall health? Petting a dog for 15 minutes can lower your blood pressure and walking a dog is great for your heart and musculoskeletal system, helping to strengthen muscles and bones. In addition, a walk keeps your...

Real Men Wear Pink Two physicians from the rebranded 360 ORTHOPEDICS (formerly Sarasota Orthopedic Associates), have been chosen to participate in the REAL MEN WEAR PINK events to raise awareness and donations for this important cause that runs until...

Baker’s cysts, or more correctly popliteal cysts, are fluid filled structures, located in the back part of the knee. While relatively common and frequently detected on routine knee examination or by feeling a lump behind the knee, they are not...

“Move it or lose it” – “Motion is lotion” – “Keep moving” – “Git up and go” If you’re a patient with us at 360-ORTHOPEDICS, you’ll hear these words of advice to keep your joints and muscles at their peak performance. Why?

360 ORTHOPEDICS – A Reflection of Growth & Integrity Sarasota, FL, July 24, 2019– After 40 years known as Sarasota Orthopedic Associates, the group has rebranded as 360 Orthopedics. The original name dates back 40 years and is a reflection of when the...

If you haven’t heard the news already, Sarasota Orthopedic Associates has undergone a big change … our name. We continue to offer the same up-to-date technology and treatment with the same skilled physicians at the same three locations.

Up to 80% of Americans will experience low back pain at some point in their life. Why is it so common and is there anything that can be done about it? It has to do with the shape of the spine, specifically the part of the spine in the lower back...

Did you know there are 11 types of headaches, each with varying causes and symptoms, and all are painful in fluctuating degrees? Fortunately, most headaches are common and short lived, however one type of headache may prove to be life altering.

Does gender affect orthopedic injuries and conditions? The simple answer is: you bet it does. Consider the differences and where women are at higher risk and experience conditions exclusive or largely related to gender.

360-ORTHOPEDICS is a proud to announce they have received muliple awards from the Heraled Tribune Readers’ Choice poll of 2019. The group took 1st place in Sarasota and Venice for the following categories.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians known as physiatrists (fizz-EYE-ah-trist) are medical doctors who have graduated from medical school and have completed 4 years of residency training. The specialty is a very small one beginning...

Let’s have some fun today and see if you can answer these questions. Answers below…no peeking! Does cracking your knuckles increase your risk of arthritis? Should you put ice or heat on an injury? What’s the #1 condition experienced by seniors?

Our previous blog post talked about foods and drinks to NOT put into your body. Now let’s talk about the 7 foods that are nutritious AND taste good to help preserve your musculoskeletal system. Salmon is often referred to as a “super food”, packing a...

We often talk about how important exercise is to keep your joints lubricated. At Sarasota Orthopedic Associates our favorite mottos are “move it or lose it” and “motion is lotion”. But what about our bones and musculoskeletal system?

Our newest physician, Dr Adam Mandel, is an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon at 360-ORTHOPEDICS. He took some time to sit with us and answer a few questions to get to know him on a more personal level. Take a look at our conversation:...

Sarasota, FL, November 29, 2018 – 360-ORTHOPEDICS is proud to announce their support of two important non-profit organization events to be held in December. They are the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Nursing Scholarship Fund and the Arthritis Foundation.

360-ORTHOPEDICS is excited to announce the addition of Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon, Dr Adam Mandel. Dr Mandel is a Board Certified physician specializing in foot and ankle trauma, arthroscopy, reconstruction, joint replacement, and all other areas...

It can be hard to know whether a child needs orthopedic treatment or is just experiencing growth development. Symptoms can be signs of underlying causes. While many orthopedic problems that arise in childhood are temporary, it can be hard to know when...

Youngsters are particularly prone to sports-related injuries, but there are steps coaches and parents can take to keep young athletes healthy and active. Children love playing sports, whether on organized teams or in neighborhood pickup games.

While an estimated 75% of people will experience some form of back pain at some point in their life, that number is even higher among golfers. Pro golfers and weekend warriors are both subject to the pain. There are ways to avoid back pain, and,...

A powerful, and effective golf swing starts with a stable foundation. From a solid foundation the entire swing can be leveraged and a low handicap status can be achieved. The important but often overlooked foundation, are pain free and well-functioning...

Knee replacements have come a long way over the years, and along with improvements are misconceptions. Modern medicine is now able to reduce your post-surgical “down time” and in many cases, avoid surgery altogether.

Dr Jemaar Graham is a Board Certified Podiatrist and trained to treat all problems related to the foot and ankle with both conservative and traditional modalities. He is a native of Lakeland, FL and joined 360-ORTHOPEDICS in May.

This is a continuing series of interviews we do with our physicians here at SOA. Dr Ashot Kotcharian is a Board Certified/Fellowship Trained Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician with a specialty in Interventional Spine and Sports Medicine.

We sat down with Sarasota Orthopedic Associates physician, Dr Justin Raye to learn what motivated him to pursue the medical profession and how he helps his patients non-surgically. What inspired you to become a physician? I always had an interest for...

Those who experience pervasive, uncomfortable symptoms such as neck and shoulder pain, headaches, and numbness and tingling in the arms and hands might be surprised to learn that smartphone use could be the culprit. “Text neck” is caused by poor posture...

Many people will come to our Sarasota Orthopedic Associates sports clinic with complaints of pain on either side of their elbow which has been present for months and is aggravated by gripping things or shaking hands. While often referred to as Golfer’s...

Until about 75 years ago carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS, was thought to be caused by the compression of structures in the frontal portion of the neck or from a network of nerves from the spinal cord, over the first rib, and into the armpit.

Sarasota Orthopedic Associate’s Occupational Therapy Department continues celebrating National OT Month. To commemorate we are sharing a case study of one of our Occupational Therapy Star graduates. Matthew exemplifies how Occupational Therapy can help...

April is National Occupational Therapy Month … that may not mean much to you now, but very likely it will someday in your future. This year’s theme is living life to its fullest! An Occupational Therapist can help with common upper extremity and...

Magnetic resonance imaging, also known as an MRI scan, uses radio waves and magnets along with a computer to create detailed two-dimensional or three-dimensional images of organs and tissues. Radio signals given off by the body are digitally processed...

PRP, or platelet rich plasma, is not a new technology, but is much talked about currently. Plasma is a component of the blood that assists with clotting to promote growth of new, healthy cells. The theory of PRP is to merge this technology...

Avid runners can experience pain for a number of reasons, from simple trauma (banging the leg against something) to muscle spasms (usually the result of improper stretching). When running and jogging are consistently painful, however, the problem could...

Stretching is an important part of any physical activity for casual fitness fans and seasoned athletes alike. Engaging in proper stretching of the muscles before working out may help decrease the risk of pain from an injury, improve range of motion,...

For many people, the game of golf is a conundrum … a game of frustration and/or one of relaxation. It takes commitment, practice, and patience to make the game enjoyable. Unfortunately, all that practice may lead to stress on parts of the body,...

It’s a festive time of year when we are in a mad rush to decorate our homes and buy those special presents for our loved ones. What about a family member or friend who has to undergo surgery during this time of year?

Frequent rounds of golf can cause a number of painful conditions from chronic overuse of the muscles and tendons. Back pain resulting from improper form is one of the more common complaints in orthopedics.

“Doctor, haven’t you looked at my MRI?” This is a question that frequently comes up while visiting a doctor’s office. Most patients who have experienced an orthopedic issue at one time or another will probably undergo an MRI to better clarify the cause...

Our team of Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates know that when you come in for your therapy it can be a bit unsettling and you may have several questions for us: What are they going to do to me?

October is NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH so what better time to honor our awesome physical therapy staff for their skills and dedication to help our patients get back on their feet, back to work, back in the game, and back to life.

What’s so important about a vestibular disorder and, more important, what the heck is it? First of all, it’s very important and, if you are over 40 years old, you have a 1 in 3 chance of experiencing a balance problem at some point in your lifetime.

Early last week Sarasota Orthopedic Associates teamed up with The Mall at University Town Center and Doctors Hospital of Sarasota to organize a blood drive for the victims of hurricane Harvey. The storm slammed hard into Houston leaving a path of...

Recent studies have found that sugar can be as addictive as cocaine or alcohol according to the US National Institute on Drug Abuse. For some people, eating foods high in sugar may produce chemical changes in the brain’s “reward” center causing...

We are so proud to introduce you to Orthopedic Surgeon, Julie Gladden Barre, MD. Dr. Barre has a specialty in Sports Medicine and treats all ages from high school athletes to couch potatoes to weekend warriors to professional athletes.

At Sarasota Orthopedic Associates, we believe in supporting our community in many ways and we encourage our staff to do so as well. Our spine surgeon, Dr Andrew Moulton, goes a step further and shares his skills globally to help children in developing...

Throughout last year we profiled all our physicians here at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates in a series of interviews. We were pleased to have Steven Page, MD join our SOA group late last year as Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine...

HIGH HEEL HAZARDS We know, we know. We can already hear you saying, “But I love my high heels”. Aesthetically, high heels make the shape of a woman’s leg more appealing yet it seems the prettiest shoes are the most dangerous.

July 4th. This is not simply a day of fireworks, a holiday from work, backyard cookouts, or celebration. It is also one of reflection. What does it mean and how did we get here 241 years later from the most monumental day in our history? In 1776,...

Leonardo da Vinci was quoted as saying “The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art”. He wasn’t kidding around considering a human foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Because the...

If you live in or near Sarasota, you likely know Randall Morgan, MD as a surgeon at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates. Did you know he’s also a very talented musician and leader of his band, “Soul Sensations”? Huffington Post Contributor, Leni Miller...

At Sarasota Orthopedic Associates we are often asked, “My thumb hurts, is this part of aging? Must I live with it or can something be done?” The good news is a resounding YES THERE IS HELP and treatment is typically non-invasive.

How important is it for us to support our local community? At Sarasota Orthopedic Associates we are so much more than physicians and medical support staff. We believe supporting our local community through non-profit organizations is an essential...

Sarasota Orthopedic Associates physicians handle many types of muscle, joint, and spine conditions and injuries. While all of these should be taken seriously, damage to the foot or ankle can result in issues in other parts of the body.

Our hands are an intricate marvel of the human body. With 27 bones in each hand and wrist it’s no surprise so much can go wrong for so many people. We often think of injuries to athletes or common clumsy mishaps when a hand is injured. It’s not just...

If you’ve followed us for the past three months, you already know a few of our enthusiastic staff members took on a challenge to live a better lifestyle and shed some pounds. The team lost a total of 117 pounds to date. Awesome! We wanted to know what...

First of all, what is the difference between an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Image) and an X-ray (electro-magnetic wave of high energy with very short wavelength)? The above image on the left is an MRI of a left knee. The image on the right is an x-ray of...

If you’ve been following along, you know we are nearing the final weeks of our “Biggest Loser Challenge” here at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates. Even though our task is coming to a close, we will continue to commit to our new lifestyle of healthy...

No, Sarasota Orthopedic Associates is not trying to turn you into a Vegetarian or Vegan. We ARE suggesting that cutting back on some of your meat intake could prove beneficial. Dani, in our call center, has some great suggestions here to help you keep...

To the casual observer the sport of golf may seem a relaxing, calm respite from daily routine, however nothing is farther from the truth. Today in the U.S. there are over 25 million golfers and 15-20% of them will experience some form of golf injury.

Can you believe we are on week #5 of the #TeamSOA Biggest Loser Challenge? Mary Mather, CFO at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates and co-captain of our challenge, adopted some great ideas to stay organized on her quest for a healthy lifestyle.

We are four weeks into our Biggest Loser Challenge at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates and our staff has been providing helpful fitness information and diet tips. This week we hear from Andrea Gildar in our awesome Physical Therapy department. If you know...

As part of our 12 week series of the Sarasota Orthopedic Associates Biggest Loser Challenge, some of our staff are sharing their own health tips. As with any new regimen, it’s always best to check with your physician first. This week, Dani Walsh, from...

If you are new to our blog, Sarasota Orthopedic Associates is undertaking a 12 week biggest loser challenge. We’ve asked our staff to share tips and inspiration during this healthy challenge and ask YOU to join us on our journey.

The New Year is here and we are ready to challenge ourselves in beginning a healthy lifestyle. At Sarasota Orthopedic Associates, this week marks the launch of our “Biggest Loser” 12 week staff challenge. We’ve designed a plan of weekly events...

We are often warned about the dangers of driving and walking while texting. A while ago, we blogged about “Candy Crush Thumb”. These common activities have sent far too many people to their physicians and worse, emergency rooms.

Many times we see our glass as half empty rather than half full. At this time of year we are reminded of how blessed we are when we witness others less fortunate. This year, with the help of Circus Arts Conservatory,...

There are 206 bones in the adult body and 27 of them are in the hand and wrist. So it is understandable that most people will suffer a broken bone to the hand or wrist during their lifetime.

At this time we stop and take a breath for that one special day to reflect on what makes us thankful. But what about the rest of the year? Shouldn’t we start every day thankful for at least one something in our lives?

Fresh herbs and spices are great in cooking and add unique flavor profiles to your inspirational dishes. But, did you know grandma may be right about some of her home remedies to ward off ailments?

October is NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH and it’s a time when we honor the special people on our PT team. Where do we begin? First, let’s look at the definition of Physical Therapy: the treatment of disease, injury, or deformity using various methods...

Shoulder injuries are common in golfers. Stresses on the shoulder are different from other sports because each shoulder is in opposition when swinging the club. The forward shoulder stretches across the body with the trailing shoulder raised and rotated.

Do you find yourself talking to your friends about how you used to be a runner? You may have run 5k’s, Half Marathons, and even a full 26.2, but now you haven’t run in years because you know when you do, you are going to experience urinary leakage...

Today our blog features an article from United Healthcare and their publication “This Week’s Healthy Inspiration”. How many of you are traveling frequently? Or have a long commute? Or heading off on a road trip? Don’t let traveling for work or pleasure...

We know, we know. We can already hear you saying, “But I love my high heels”. Aesthetically, high heels make the shape of a woman’s leg more appealing yet it seems the prettiest shoes are the most dangerous. Unfortunately, high heels are the poorest...

It’s a question most orthopedic surgeons get asked on a daily basis: “My joint pops…is that normal?” Like most things in life, if it’s not broke (or hurting), don’t fix it. An acute injury resulting in an audible “pop” is different from a situation...

Golf is a sport appreciated by people of all ages and abilities. Everyone who plays would like to hit the ball farther and more precisely without low back or neck pain which increases the enjoyment of the game and the longevity of their playing career.

Eating small, frequent meals can take the edge off your appetite. But which is better for controlling your waistline – eating three squares a day or grazing?

By now you’ve likely heard of the new craze, Pokémon Go. So what’s all the fuss about and why would you want to participate? We admit at first blush, we had no interest but then we got to thinking this could be a good thing … even a healthy thing if...

A recent study found that increased levels of exercise and physical activity have a direct impact on lowering the risk of 13 cancers. These include esophageal, liver, lung, kidney, gastric, endometrial, leukemia, myeloma, colon, head/neck, rectal...

Leonardo da Vinci was quoted as saying “The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art”. He wasn’t kidding around considering a human foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Nowadays we’re more prone than ever to think about our health and ways to stay fit. With so much information and “mis”-information out there in cyberspace to “digest”, it’s not easy making wise choices”.

Indeed it is. Think about it. We spend much of our day with our heads lowered to read our smartphones. It’s not unusual to see people “text-walking” or worse, driving while texting.

One of the advantages living in Florida is our sunny weather year round so it is not unusual to have daily access to a pool, whether at a private home, community development, or a local Y.

Hip pain is a very common complaint we hear from patients at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates. A decrease in mobility may make your daily activity problematic, depending on the severity. Did you know hip pain stems from many different causes?

Recent studies have found that sugar can be as addictive as cocaine or alcohol according to the US National Institute on Drug Abuse. For some people, eating foods high in sugar may produce chemical changes in the brain’s “reward” center causing...

We’ve heard many times about how important it is to maintain good posture at our workplace desks to protect our neck and spine, however most of us don’t give it a second thought when driving.

The knee is a very complex joint with many components making it vulnerable to a variety of injuries. When damaged, it can seriously impact your quality of life. Knee pain is one of the most common reasons people visit an orthopedic physician.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, 46 million Americans live with arthritis or chronic joint symptoms. Arthritis symptoms limit everyday activities such as dressing, bathing, and cooking for more than 7 million Americans.

Our weekly blogs have given us fascinating insight to the more personal side of our SOA physicians. This week we sat down with Johnny Gibbs, MD, a Fellowship Trained, Board Certified Sports Medicine Physician, and learned a bit more about what makes...

Eric James, MD is a Fellowship Trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates. He specializes in foot and ankle advanced techniques and reconstruction of complex foot deformities.

This interview marks the halfway point in chatting with our physicians at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates. Dr Gregory Farino, a Fellowship Trained and Board Certified orthopedic surgeon, has a specialty in hand and wrist conditions.

The fifth in our series of getting to know our SOA physicians on a personal level features Dr Kim Furman, Fellowship Trained and Board Re-Certified Orthopedic physician.

In our ongoing series of SOA physician interviews, we’re getting an up close and personal look at each of our physicians. This week, we asked Eric James, MD, orthopedic foot & ankle surgeon at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates, to answer some questions and...

Last week we featured Dr Michael Gordon. This week, we asked the same questions of Paul Lento, MD, a triple board certified Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physician here at SOA.

Over the next several weeks we’ll be asking each of our physicians to reveal a more personal side that extends beyond their medical biography. This week, we spoke with Dr Michael Gordon, who is Fellowship Trained and Board Certified in treating hands...

At times, orthopedic terms can sound like a foreign language. We thought it would be fun to compile a list of one orthopedic term for each letter of the alphabet. Take a look and see if you’ve heard of these...

No one can deny technology has made us smarter, more efficient, and even healthier. Medical technology allows for early detection. The internet gives us instant access to news and information. But whatever happened to human contact?

“Dude. Engage!” Distracted driving can cause crashes, injuries, and even death; it’s a prevalent public issue that the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) continues to champion. But what about distracted walking? What are the consequences...

At this time of year we think about the year left behind, reflecting on our accomplishments and wondering about things we wish we had done. Each new year prompts us to set new goals, but what about our “bucket list” … those wishes and dreams we...

Most athletes expect injuries and not an infection to be the thing that would most likely make them miss some time. Viral, fungal, and bacterial infections can not only take a person out of the game...

Tennis is one of the more popular sports on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Year round competition at all levels can unfortunately lead to various “overuse” injuries, and some athletes may even sustain acute traumatic injuries which may force them to miss time.

Ahhh!!! Florida, with its beautiful warm sunny days and virtually endless opportunities for sporting events, is a hotbed for the development of youth sports. Here in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, there are numerous opportunities for the young athlete...

You have probably heard of, or know someone who has had, a knee or shoulder arthroscopy or “scope.” What you may not know is that we can also perform arthroscopy of the ankle. This can be a quite useful procedure for some common ailments of the ankle.

Studies have shown that 40% of us will have a balance issue at some point in our lives. Some of these issues will be the catalyst for us to see our physician. A balance disorder is a condition making one feel unsteady or dizzy. Any number of things may...

The Thanksgiving holiday has come to mean so many things: family, food, football. Most of all it’s a day to reflect on our gratitude for those in our lives who bring us joy and the opportunities we are afforded throughout our lives. “A thankful heart...

Sure, playgrounds are the most obvious place for a childhood injury or fall, but what about other places? Children are creative, curious, and uncoordinated, as well as energetic and a fall can happen in an instant, with or without supervision.

Cervicogenic headaches are characterized as head and neck pain originating from the cervical region, a type of secondary headache. This classification is due to the source of the headache being in the neck. Cervicogenic headaches may be from muscle...

A few months ago, several news outlets reported the case of a 35 year old female whose legs became so swollen and weak making her unable to walk. Upon being taken to the emergency room, her pants had to be removed by cutting and peeling them off due to...

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive office-based diagnostic test that uses non-painful ultrasound waves that creates images of various structures in the body. These images help elucidate the various causes of orthopedic pain such as tendon...

In our senior years, we hope to enjoy retirement while checking the fun items off our bucket list. Those senior years can be fulfilling however, they sometimes bring physical pain. Arthritis is the #1 condition experienced by seniors, affecting more...

Foot and ankle pain affects a large part of the population at any given time and can be quite disabling. Even if your pain doesn’t keep you from work or play, it can significantly affect your quality of life. I frequently have patients that are...

Try our fun orthopedic quiz … What is the meaning of the word orthopedic? How many bones in the adult human body? In what part of the body are most of our bones located? What does PRP stand for, and what is it? Where is the largest bone in the human body?

With today’s modern golf swing, there are numerous muscle groups and joints which need to be on the same page to best provide one with an effective, powerful stroke while minimizing the risk of injury. An often neglected part of the body with regards to...

A few months ago, we announced our official orthopedic partnership with the Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC). You may wonder what orthopedics has to do with a circus. The obvious answer is the circus is comprised of athletic performers and SOA specializes...

What is it and what causes it? Concussion in sports involves a complex process whereby trauma induced to the body or head creates abnormalities in processing of the brain. While most people believe that a concussion requires a direct hit to the head,...

You’ve heard calcium and vitamin D are essential to maintaining strong bones and slowing osteoporosis. Here’s a list of bone-smart foods to include in your diet that will pack a punch in elevating your calcium and vitamin D intake: Hearty greens like...

Do you find yourself limiting your activities due to pain and stiffness in your foot and/or ankle? Arthritis of the foot and ankle is a common problem that can frequently occur as a result of previous injuries or as a degenerative process related to aging.

For years, we’ve been told to eat healthy and exercise daily, but who can resist the sensual temptation of a Godiva Cappuccino truffle, a Ghirardelli Evening Dream Bar, or a classic Lindt treat? Gosh, even a milk chocolate Hershey kiss will do in a...

Arthritis or Osteoarthritis that causes back pain can be a debilitating condition for the people who suffer from it, and a challenging condition for physicians to treat. Arthritis of the back affects the facet joints in the spine and although these...

Did you know that Sarasota Orthopedic Associates provides orthopedic care for children as well as adults? A pediatric orthopedic physician is specially trained in treating children from newborns to teens. Children are not just small adults.

Many people are unaware that there are specialties within physical therapy treatment. One of those specialties is Hand Therapy which requires an extensive amount of additional training and certification examination. A candidate must have a minimum of...

… is hearing recovery success stories from our patients. Whether it’s in person, on Facebook, a patient survey, a phone call or a letter, we never tire of hearing how we were able to help you. We love knowing you are now able to walk without pain,...

An MRI exam (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) can be restricting, loud, and uncomfortable for some people. Others may even experience claustrophobia (fear of closed in spaces). Now say “goodbye” to the traditional MRI when needing a scan of an extremity.

At Sarasota Orthopedic Associates, we see so many patients of all ages with arthritis on a daily basis and unfortunately, it’s a condition most of us will eventually experience. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) published these alarming statistics...

Accidental falls can happen for many reasons. Sometimes they happen because we may be having a clumsy day or simply not paying attention. Falls are the #2 leading cause of accidental deaths in the world.

It’s hard to NOT wear flip flops when you live in a gorgeous, sunny climate like Sarasota, Florida. What you might not know, is that you may end up paying a high price in foot damage from the much-loved tropical footwear.

You may have heard the recent story (click here) about a man who suffered a ruptured thumb tendon from playing the video game Candy Crush for hours at a time. Apparently the thrill of the game masked the pain which eventually resulted in his rupture.

Bionic Hands? – A young Haitian boy born without fingers gets a 3D printed left hand and is now playing catch with his friends. A New Backbone? – Peking physicians print the first 3D vertebra into a bone cancer patient, allowing new bone to grow into...

We are often asked about the significance of the tree in our logo. Truth is, we are paying homage to the medical field of orthopedics. The crooked tree symbol was first used as an illustration by Nicholas Andry in his 1741 published book on orthopedic...

This is one of the most asked questions of our Sarasota Orthopedic physicians. “Should I use heat or ice?”. Here’s the scoop … (click here)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or CTS, is a common condition that affects … (click here for more)

Sadly, 90% of the American population will experience some form of significant back pain at some point in their life. While one can get much advice from the internet, magazines, healthcare providers, and even their Aunt Edna on what is the best remedy,...

What’s Hot … What’s Not? Click link to learn more: Click Here

These healthy habits might be counter-intuitive but they really work. Click here...

When we think of someone needing to see an orthopedic physician, we most often visualize a high school football player, a weekend warrior, or anyone experiencing an injury or trauma. Reality is performance artists, just like athletes, often develop...

Many people will come to the sports clinic with complaints of pain on either side of their elbow which has been present for months and is aggravated by gripping things or shaking hands. While often referred to as Golfer’s or Tennis elbow, this painful...

Turns out, it could be helping clear your surgeon’s mind and focus on the task at hand.