Blog Archive
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. The problem is inflammation in and around the tendons...
Sports and activities that involve sudden stops, jumps, and fast changes of direction raise the risk of damage to a particular ligament that stretches diagonally across the middle of the knee. Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can sideline you for months. Every ACL injury has its own recovery...
Headaches and neck pain often seem to chase each other. Your neck hurts, and you have a headache. Are these related? 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...
As shoulder pain specialists, the team at 360 Orthopedics is always on the lookout for innovative ways to help treat our patients. 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...
Chronic pain is often difficult to manage, particularly when you have a degenerative condition like arthritis. Pain medications are best suited for short-term use. With chronic pain, your body adapts to analgesic drugs, requiring stronger formulas or larger doses. There’s sometimes a risk of drug dependency and addiction. Yet, non-pharmaceutical...
It might be a single event or an injury from repeated use. Either way, muscle strains, mild or severe, are common and virtually everyone suffers occasionally. When you’re affected, you want to get past the pain and back to 100% capacity as fast as you can, so we’ve created this...
In today’s world, traditional plaster casts are a disappearing entity. While there are still injuries that lend themselves to plaster casts, fiberglass is the current standard of care, being durable and strong while also much lighter than plaster. Kids being kids, it’s sometimes a challenge to keep the cast clean. The traditional...
Pain is a natural part of life, a biological warning system to alert you of illness and injury. Just as other body systems become dysfunctional, so can your pain response. Nerves can also work just fine while reporting on the effects of long-term degenerative conditions. In both cases, you may...
Steroid injections, also known as cortisone shots or corticosteroid injections, allows your doctor to treat tissue inflammation and pain near the source, without the uncertainties of an oral medication. It’s a common treatment used for arthritic conditions, as well as other inflammatory conditions that affect joint support tissue like tendons...
At 360 Orthopedics, much of our practice focuses on injury recovery and orthopedic pain management. Physical therapy is a frequent treatment modality, designed to develop muscle mass as a way to support ailing joints. Healthy muscles take some of the load that will otherwise fall entirely on your joints. This added support helps...
According to Stanford Medicine Children’s Health, falls are the most common cause of emergency room visits for young children. From the moment your children become mobile, it’s time to help them avoid the challenges surrounding them in their new world. Falls can lead to orthopedic injuries like bruises, sprains, fractures, and more, so...
As knee pain specialists, we see plenty of meniscus tears at 360 Orthopedics. These cartilage cushions in the knees are one of the most common places for a knee injury to occur. Depending on the severity of your injury, some rest and conservative care may be all you need to...
The joints of your body provide the ability to move in a variety of ways with coordination and strength. When you’re suffering from joint pain, it can reduce your mobility and interrupt the performance of daily tasks. A frequently recommended treatment is physical therapy. It may seem counterintuitive to use a...
Studies show a connection between smartphone viewing and neck pain in general, as well as increased pain with increased use. It’s not just smartphones creating the problem though. Tablets, laptops, and desktop computers can all contribute to the issue dubbed tech neck. Viewing any of these devices encourages an instinctive forward tilt...
The major joints of the lower body, including the hips, support your full weight as you move. When pain starts in any joint, daily tasks become difficult, if not impossible. Hip pain often develops slowly over time. You’ve likely already tried conservative therapies to gain relief. It’s common for hip...
Workplace injuries are a fact of life, no matter how well developed the safety protocols at your job. Accidents happen, and often at the most inconvenient times. In Florida, you usually don’t need to worry about lost wages or medical bills because most employers must, by law, carry worker’s compensation insurance...
Strains, sprains, and joint injuries dominate the field when it comes to sports injuries, and numerous hospitals across the US have specialized units to deal with injuries like these. While some sports injuries can be easily and quickly treated, others can be complicated. The talented professionals at 360 Orthopedics regularly...
One of the big advantages of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner is that it’s radiation-free. It’s safe for patients of any age. Even pregnant mothers can have MRI scans without worry about their fetus. However, the MRI scanner and the room it’s in can create an intimidating environment the first time...
As the median age of the American population rises, so do chronic pain conditions. Wear-and-tear diseases like osteoarthritis add painful biomechanical breakdowns in active and healthy people who maintain good health into later years. Managing these conditions is often difficult, particularly when there’s a high reliance on pain relief medications. Platelet-rich plasma...
There are over 100 types of arthritis, diseases that affect the joints of your body. Almost 25% of American adults have some form of arthritis, with the most common being osteoarthritis. As the country’s population gets older, it’s a healthcare problem that’s becoming more prevalent. Though arthritis is often degenerative and without...
Shoulder replacement surgery is the fastest growing joint replacement procedure today, with over 70,000 surgeries taking place each year. While every case has its own unique challenges, the overall procedure has a high success rate, relieving pain and restoring mobility for many patients. There are a few conditions and restrictions that can...
Stub your toe and pain lasts a few minutes, or perhaps days for a particularly hard hit. Soon, though, you’ll forget about the incident. That’s acute pain, a short-duration experience that passes quickly. You may not even need an over-the-counter pain pill to cope. One out of every five American...
When you’re involved in competitive sports, your overall health is critical to your success — and that includes your bones. Between grueling practices and the intensity of your games, your body uses and loses vital nutrients, which can ultimately take a toll on your bone health. However, taking the time...
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 result in reinjury. These tips can help you facilitate a safe...
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 the median nerve, which runs down the arm, through the wrist, and into...
An ACL tear is a common sports injury that affects the anterior cruciate ligament, which is one of the knee’s main support structures. Damage to the ACL typically results from impact that occurs when you suddenly stop or change direction while playing football, soccer, basketball, or another high-impact sport. Explore...
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 post-surgery recovery. Here’s a look at what you can expect...
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 control and support the hip joints. To exercise this muscle after a...
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 patients in need. The safety protocols we currently have in...
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 that cannot be delayed. Current protocols we have in place: Patients...
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 seniors: “We don’t stop playing...
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, making it difficult to know fact from fiction....
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. He is Managing Partner and President of 360 Orthopedics with three locations in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch,...
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• Is a good cardio workout, building endurance• Relieves stress• Helps with weight management•...
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 in their commitment of giving back to the community. This will be the third year in a row that 360-ORTHOPEDICS will...
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. So it’s not surprising that this part of your...
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 obstacles you’ll be facing in...
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 over the past ten years in our area. Today over 2.5...
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 drills can be 8 hours of physical activity for days on end....
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. While still experimental, PRP is a safe procedure and has been...
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 joints moving … “motion is...
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 the end of October. Dr Paul Lento and Dr Justin Raye, along...
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 associated with being a baker! In fact, most of the general...
“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? Problems arise when you stop moving. We spend about a third...
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 physicians treated patients in one location. Over 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. And yes, we continue to offer same day/next day appointments. Only our...
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...
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. Migraine headaches typically occur on one side and may...
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. More important, let’s look at how women can prevent risk. Feet and Ankles With 26 bones and 33...
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. Best Orthopedists Best Physical Therapy Best Pain Management Best Foot & Ankle Care Additionally, the group was a...
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 with WWII when many military personnel returned home with various disabilities from the war. Over...
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? How many years of education does it take to...
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 punch of protein, minerals, and...
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? What we feed our bodies affects our overall health including our bones. Let’s take...
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: What inspired you to become a physician?...
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. On Saturday, December 15, the 360-ORTHOPEDICS team “Achy Breaky Bones” will sponsor the “Jingle Bell Run”...
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 of foot and ankle treatment options. He is skilled in addressing complex deformity as...
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 your child may need additional care. Parents who...
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. In fact, more than 46 million children participate in sports each year, with most reaping the...
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, non-invasive treatments if it does happen...
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 feet and ankles. While there is a lot of discussion about...
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. Let’s take a look at some of those myths. Myth: You have to have knee surgery....
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. We’re pleased to welcome him to our family and asked him to give us...
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. Dr Kotcharian has a strong background in interventional therapies for spine disease, complex...
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 human physiology as well as health/fitness, which led me...
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 while using handheld devices. The average head weighs about 10 pounds,...
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 or Tennis elbow, this painful tendon condition usually...
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. Today we recognize this condition...
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 patients get “back on your feet, back to work, back in the game, and back to life”, the SOA...
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 hand conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or repetitive strain which could limit...
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 to produce images based on both the body’s anatomy and its...
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 with the body’s natural ability to heal...
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 be runner’s knee. Exercise enthusiasts should always pay attention to pain and...
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, and even improve performance. Here are four expert techniques...
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, particularly the shoulder. Even professionals may experience...
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? It’s hard to celebrate when you’re in...
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. First and foremost, having a golf pro will help avoid injuries as well as improve your...
“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 of the problem. However, diagnostic studies such...
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? Can they really help me? Do they understand...
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. Physical Therapy is often times misconstrued as a...
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. A balance disorder can be a...
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 devastation. Blood banks in Houston were unable to provide donation supplies for their hospitals...
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 addictive cravings. Sugar is sugar … don’t be fooled...
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. You may find her professional bio on our website, however, we wanted to...
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 countries. Our local newspaper recently interviewed him to learn more...
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 Physician. This week, we posed those same questions to him so you...
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 shoe choice for your health, propelling...
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, the 13 colonies...
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 foot is so intricate, there are so...
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 caught up with him to talk about the importance of loving...
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. Thumb pain is common among females over the age of 50. It can occur...
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 component of what we represent. Our professional mission is to get our patients back to...
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. Common Foot and Ankle Injuries There are many bones in the foot...
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 athletes...
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 inspired the...
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 a left knee....
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 eating and staying fit. Many people have the...
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 Meatless Monday interesting and yummy: Think about it …...
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. Of those, 80% will be...
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. She believes a bit of planning and a Sunday afternoon are keys to...
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 Andrea, you’ll agree she is full of energy and very fit!...
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 our Call Center tells us how apple cider...
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. Feel free to share your comments and tell us what inspires you...
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 to motivate #TeamSOA in a quest to lose pounds...
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. What’s next? The newest ailments are plentiful: Selfie Hand, Text Claw, Selfie...
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, we took on a rather large project for the...
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. These injuries can be debilitating since they can inhibit normal functions of the...
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? Our days are so hectic balancing work and family and we...
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? Check out some of these well-known herbs and spices and their healing components: BASIL – Sure...
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 of massage, manipulation, temperature, and/or exercise. Ok, well...
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. This leads to different complications in each shoulder. In addition, the rotator cuff...
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 somewhere along...
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 put you on a crash course with an...
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 shoe choice for your health, propelling...
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 such as a hip “popping” for...
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. The key to unlocking the...
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? Do you find yourself in the employee break room every day at 4 pm because the pretzels, chips and candy bars are calling...
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 done...
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, bladder, and breast cancers. The findings indicated three factors that contribute to lowering cancer...
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 foot is so intricate, there are so...
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”. It’s difficult to separate myth from fact. Take our quick quiz and see how much you...
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. With all the advantages of having a world of information at our fingertips, there is also an associated...
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. Even if you’re in a climate with cold winter temperatures, there are gyms offering...
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? We typically think of a broken hip as a condition suffered by...
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 addictive cravings. Sugar is sugar … don’t be fooled...
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. Unlike sitting in a chair, the spine experiences variations of force when in a car....
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. Difficulty standing and walking can greatly diminish your...
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. Half of those Americans with arthritis aren’t aware of options now available to help alleviate their symptoms. The...
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 him tick. What inspired you to become a physician?...
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. Dr James shares with us the importance of not neglecting our feet … they need a workout as much as the rest...
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. Take a look at what inspires Dr Farino and what he does in an occasional spare moment: What...
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. Dr Furman specializes in hip and knee joint replacements, and there’s an inspirational side of him you may not know. Read about it here:...
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 share his thoughts with us. What inspired you to become a...
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. What inspired you to become a physician? Not so much “what” but “who”. My father had a pretty strong influence on...
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, wrists, shoulders, and elbows and sees adults and children...
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: Arthroscopy – a minimally invasive surgical procedure on a joint...
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? We have become so wrapped up in the convenience of technology, we’ve lost the pleasure of...
“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 of pedestrians talking on the phone, texting, listening to music, or engaging...
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 wouldn’t normally be able to do,...
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, but can be serious enough to require hospitalization. Recent outbreaks of Staph infections at schools and...
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. An overview of common injuries as well...
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 to participate in sports year round. Too often, however, young athletes are playing...
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. This is frequently...
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 cause...
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 is not only the greatest...
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. Falling and injuries are a natural occurrence of childhood resulting in cuts,...
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 pain and spasms of the neck muscles, cervical facet joints, or the occipital...
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 excessive...
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 tears, muscle contusions, and even early stress fractures of bone. Unlike x-rays, which use...
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 than 50% of adults over 65 years of age. It can...
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 surprised when I give them...
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...
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 many players’ swings is the...
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 in Sports Medicine, so it’s a PERFECT match. MOST...
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, many athletes can develop a concussion even from...
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 kale and spinach have an added plus of...
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. It is also seen as...
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 pinch when getting a yen for...
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 joints can be injected, studies have shown that this...
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 times, they are unable to communicate their discomfort or comply during an exam....
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 five years as an Occupational or Physical Therapist and accumulate at least 4,000...
… 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, or lift your...
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. SOA is pleased to announce our newest technology, the digital O-Scan...
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: 1 in 2 people will have osteo-arthritis by the time they...
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. Falling is not limited to the aging process; toddlers learning to walk and even young...
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. Wearing flip flops on a regular basis can lead...
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. For others, there have even...
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 the replaced portion of his...
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 medicine. Since that time, it...
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, it is often unclear whether continuing an exercise program...
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 conditions in need of orthopedic care. Consider the cellist who...
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 tendon condition usually occurs not from...
Turns out, it could be helping clear your surgeon’s mind and focus on the task at hand. Click here to read more