What is the Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint, stabilizing it and enabling a wide range of arm movements. These muscles—supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis—form a “cuff” around the head of the upper arm bone (humerus), keeping it securely in the shallow socket of the shoulder blade. This structure helps you lift and rotate your arm for daily activities like reaching overhead or throwing a ball.

What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons in this group are damaged, either partially or completely. Tears can result from an acute injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm, or from degeneration due to repetitive overhead motions or aging. The supraspinatus tendon is most commonly affected. Symptoms include pain in the front or side of the shoulder that may radiate down the arm, especially during overhead activities like lifting or reaching. You may also experience pain at night, weakness, difficulty with tasks like combing your hair, and sometimes a popping sensation during movement. If the tear occurs suddenly, you may feel immediate pain and arm weakness.

Types of Tears

• Partial Tear: The tendon is damaged but not fully detached from the bone, making it thinner than normal.
• Full-Thickness Tear: Part or all of the tendon is completely detached from the humerus, creating a hole in the tendon. This can range from a small, incomplete tear to a complete tear where the tendon is fully separated.

Tears can worsen over time due to repetitive use or re-injury, leading to increased pain and weakness. If you suspect a tear, consult an orthopedic surgeon who may use imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis can prevent further loss of strength or motion.

Treatment Options for a Rotator Cuff Tear

Treatment depends on the tear’s severity, your age, activity level, and overall health. The goals are to relieve pain and restore shoulder function. Many tears, especially partial ones, can be managed without surgery, but active individuals or those with persistent symptoms may require surgical intervention.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical options are often effective for partial tears or less severe symptoms:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate the shoulder, such as overhead motions, helps reduce strain and promote healing.
• Physical Therapy: A structured exercise program can strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles, improve flexibility, and restore motion. A physical therapist will guide you through targeted exercises.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, stronger medications may be prescribed.
• Cortisone Injections: These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication into the shoulder to relieve pain and swelling, often providing temporary relief.

Non-surgical treatments can restore good function in many cases, as other shoulder muscles can compensate, even though most tears do not heal on their own.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery is often recommended for full-thickness tears, persistent pain, or weakness that doesn’t improve with non-surgical methods, especially for active individuals or those who use their arms for overhead work or sports (e.g., tennis players, painters). Options include:

• Arthroscopic Repair: A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions, a camera (arthroscope), and specialized instruments to reattach the tendon to the bone. This method minimizes damage to surrounding tissues and is typically done outpatient.
• Open Repair: For larger or complex tears, a larger incision is made to access and repair the tendon, often involving removal of bone spurs (acromioplasty).
• Mini-Open Repair: A hybrid approach combining arthroscopic and open techniques for certain tears.
• Tendon Transfer: If the tendon is too damaged to repair, a nearby tendon may be used as a substitute.
• Shoulder Replacement: In rare cases with severe damage or arthritis, part or all of the shoulder joint may be replaced.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is critical for both non-surgical and surgical treatments to restore strength and motion. Physical therapy begins soon after treatment to address muscle atrophy and stiffness. For non-surgical cases, recovery may take weeks to months. After surgery, you may wear a sling for 4–6 weeks, with physical therapy continuing for 3–6 months or longer. Full recovery from surgery, especially for large tears, can take 6–12 months, with the rotator cuff continuing to heal for up to a year. Avoiding activities that stress the repair is essential to prevent re-injury.

Conclusion

A rotator cuff tear can be a challenging condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, most patients can achieve significant relief and return to their normal activities. Whether through non-surgical methods like physical therapy or advanced surgical techniques, our orthopedic team is dedicated to helping you recover. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or difficulty with movement, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our specialists. Together, we can develop a personalized plan to address your needs and restore your shoulder’s strength and function.

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Here are some answers to common questions about the procedure.

When do you potentially need a shoulder replacement?

• When your shoulder consistently gives you pain
• When movement has become too restrictive
• When it no longer responds to such treatments as physical therapy and medications, including pain-relieving injections

What are the causes of these shoulder conditions?

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Posttraumatic Arthritis
• Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy
• Avascular Necrosis
• Severe Injury

Who is a likely candidate for the surgery?

• General good health
• Appropriate weight (BMI <40)
• Non-smoker
• Arthritis that has failed to respond to conservative treatment

How common is shoulder surgery?

Shoulder joint replacement has become increasingly common, and is now as effective as knee and hip replacement surgery to help patients get back to their normal activities without pain. According to the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 175,000 to 350,000 procedures per year may be performed by 2025. Orthopedic Performance Institute surgeons, Dr. Matthew Dwyer and Dr. Christopher Phelps, routinely perform shoulder replacement surgery.

How is it done?

Total shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, involves removing the damaged portions of the shoulder joint and replacing them with artificial components, collectively referred to as a prosthesis.

The surgeon begins by making an incision over the shoulder to access the joint. The damaged or arthritic cartilage and bone from the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) and sometimes the socket of the scapula (the glenoid) are carefully removed. These surfaces are then reshaped to fit the prosthetic components.

The artificial joint is made from metal and plastic materials designed to mimic the natural anatomy and function of the shoulder. Cement or a press-fit technique may be used to secure the prosthesis, depending on bone quality and the specific implant design.

Replacement Options

There are different types of shoulder replacement procedures, depending on the extent of joint damage and the patient’s needs:

• Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty)
  In this procedure, only the head of the humerus (the “ball” of the joint) is replaced with a metal implant. The socket (glenoid) is left intact. This option is often chosen when the glenoid is healthy or when the damage is primarily limited to the humeral head, such as in some fractures.
• Total Shoulder Replacement (Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty)
  Both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid) are replaced. The humeral component is typically metal, while the glenoid component is made of medical-grade plastic (polyethylene). This is the most common type of shoulder replacement and is generally recommended for patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe joint damage.
• Reverse Shoulder Replacement (Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty)
  In cases where the rotator cuff is severely damaged or nonfunctional, a reverse shoulder replacement may be used. This procedure reverses the normal ball-and-socket configuration: a metal ball is attached to the scapula, and a plastic socket is placed on the top of the humerus. This design relies on the deltoid muscle rather than the rotator cuff to lift the arm, making it ideal for patients with rotator cuff arthropathy.

Your orthopedic surgeon will determine which course of action to take.

What evaluation processes are involved?

The Orthopedic Performance Institute’s Dr. Matthew Dwyer and Dr. Christopher Phelps will evaluate you in four key areas.

1. Medical history. You’ll be asked about your overall health, pain and ability to perform everyday activities.
2. Physical examination. This will assess your shoulder motion ad strength.
3. X-rays. These will allow the doctors to evaluate the damage and what needs to be replaced.
4. CT scans and MRIs. These procedures may be warranted to allow a closer examination of the bone and soft tissue.

How long is the surgery?

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may take about 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity. Afterwards, you will either be released home or be admitted to the hospital for further observation.

What is the recovery timetable?

Recovery from shoulder surgery is a gradual process that typically spans about a year. In the first 1–2 weeks, patients begin gentle home physical therapy focused on passive range of motion, while keeping the shoulder dry until the surgical dressing is removed during the two-week follow-up. Sling immobilization is crucial during the first six weeks. From weeks 2–6, outpatient physical therapy continues to focus on passive motion, still with sling use. Between weeks 6–10, patients can discontinue the sling and begin active range of motion exercises, avoiding any lifting. From weeks 10–14, therapy progresses to include strengthening exercises. By 3–6 months, most patients follow a home regimen to further improve motion and build strength. Full recovery is typically achieved around one year post-surgery.

Contact Us Today

Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from the activities you love. Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio at (210) 545-7171 for a complete evaluation with Dr. Christopher Phelps or Dr. Matthew Dwyer.

The post Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

Corticosteroid Injections

This treatment reduces inflammation caused by joint pain, sports injuries, tendinitis, bursitis and spinal stenosis.

Corticosteroid injections suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in the affected area. They provide temporary relief by blocking the release of inflammatory chemicals, reducing pain signals and improving range of motion. Their effects can last for weeks or even months.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance in the joints that acts as a lubricant. For people with osteoarthritis, the amount of HA in the joints decreases, leading to pain and stiffness. These injections replenish the HA, particularly the knee, providing greater movement and reducing inflammation.

HA injections are used to treat patients who have already been treated with pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen) and other treatments that did not work sufficiently.

Intra-articular Hip Injections

This procedure involves injecting medication directly into the hip joint to reduce pain and inflammation. It’s often used for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or labral tears.

An intra-articular hip injection is a procedure where a needle is used to deliver medication, typically a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic, directly into the hip joint space.

In addition to pain relief, it can aid in diagnosis of the source of the pain. It may also help to delay or possibly avoid the need for hip replacement surgery.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections

A PRP injection is a treatment option that uses a patient’s own blood to promote healing and reduce pain. The process involves drawing blood, separating out the platelets and plasma, and then injecting the concentrated PRP into the affected area.

PRP injections are used to treat a variety of conditions, including sports injuries, tendon and ligament damage and osteoarthritis. Benefits include accelerated healing, reduced pain and improved function.

iovera Nerve Block Injections

iovera is a treatment that uses extreme cold to temporarily block sensory nerves from sending pain signals, providing relief for up to 90 days. It’s a non-surgical, drug-free option for managing pain caused by knee osteoarthritis.

iovera can also be used prior to your surgery to help relieve pain and make recovery easier. Patients who received iovera° as part of their recovery plan reported greater range of motion and less difficulty straightening and bending the knee.

Contact Us Today

Don’t let pain prevent you from living your best life. Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio at (210) 545-7171 to discuss treatments that may be right for you.

The post Therapeutic Injection Treatments appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

• Hip or groin pain that limits your daily activities
• Hip pain that makes it hard to get in and out of chairs
• Hip pain that keeps you awake at night
• Hip pain that doesn’t improve with other treatments, like injections, braces, or exercises

Any of these conditions may call for surgery, and the Orthopedic Performance Institute practices two techniques:

Posterior Hip Replacement

With this technique, the surgeon makes incisions in the back of the hip. Muscles and ligaments are separated to gain access to the hip bone. Dating back to the 1950s and even before, it is the traditional and most common method for hip replacement.

It may be the only option for these patients:

• Patients who are obese
• Patients who have certain medical conditions such as severe arthritis
• Patients who have had previous hip surgeries

Anterior Hip Replacement

The Orthopedic Performance Institute offers the anterior technique that can offer benefits not available with traditional hip replacement surgery. Since this surgery is more technically demanding, OPI is one of the area’s leading practitioners of the technique.

With anterior surgery, the surgeon approaches the hip bone from the front. It is known as “muscle-sparing” surgery because it does not require cutting of muscles. Because there is less muscle trauma, patients experience less postoperative pain and a faster recover time.

To qualify for the anterior hip replacement surgery, candidates must:

• Be in generally good health
• Maintain an average weight with less muscle mass and fat in the thigh area
• Be mobile, active and independent before surgery
• Have a good support system at home

The anterior hip replacement technique has fewer restrictions on mobility and activities than traditional hip surgery. Patients can immediately use their hip, allowing it to bear their total weight (as long as it’s not uncomfortable) and are allowed to bend it freely. This results in a faster resumption of their normal daily activities.

Recent advancements in surgical technique, instrumentation and patient selection have made anterior hip replacement a preferred option for qualifying patients who require total hip replacement. If performed by an experienced surgeon on the properly selected patient, an anterior hip replacement can result in a rapid recovery during the weeks after surgery.

Dr. Christopher Phelps

“I like to perform the anterior technique on hip replacement patients when possible because the patient experience is dramatically better. They recover quicker and have less pain,” says orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Christopher Phelps.

Don’t let hip pain take you away from your active lifestyle. Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio to consult with the experts!

The post Anterior and Posterior Hip Replacements: A Comparison appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

Orthopedic surgery can be applied in situations where non-surgical treatments have failed to provide relief from pain or address the underlying condition.

While every patient’s situation is unique, there are some common reasons that orthopedic surgery may be called for:

Severe Trauma or Injury

In cases of severe trauma or injury to the musculoskeletal system, orthopedic surgery may be necessary. These conditions include:

• Fractures that cannot be effectively treated with casting or immobilization alone
• Dislocations
• Severe ligament or tendon tears
• Complex joint injurie

Surgery is performed to realign bones, repair damaged tissues and restore stability and function.

Chronic Pain and Degenerative Conditions

Chronic pain that is caused by degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or spinal disc herniation may require orthopedic surgery after the gauntlet of non-surgical options have been exhausted.

Joint replacement surgeries such as hip or knee replacements can provide significant pain relief and improve mobility for individuals with severe joint damage.

Sports Injuries

Athletes who sustain sports injuries such as torn ligaments (ACL, MCL), meniscus tears or cartilage damage can benefit from orthopedic surgery. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, arthroscopic procedures or reconstructive surgeries may be utilized.

These surgeries intend to restore function, stability and range of motion, allowing athletes to get back in the game.

Congenital or Developmental Abnormalities

Orthopedic surgery may be in order for individuals who suffer from congenital or developmental abnormalities of the musculoskeletal system. These conditions can include scoliosis, hip dysplasia, or limb length discrepancies. Orthopedic surgery can:

• Correct deformities
• Improve function
• Prevent long-term complications

Such surgeries are typically performed on children or adolescents to optimize healthy growth and development.

Infection or Tumor

Orthopedic surgery may be necessary to treat infections or tumors that affect the musculoskeletal system.

Surgeries such as debridement (removal of infected tissues), bone grafting or tumor excision are ways to eliminate infections or remove cancerous or benign tumors. These procedures are essential for:

• Preventing the continuing spread of infection
• Preserving limb function
• Avoiding further potential malignancies

Considerations for Undergoing Surgery

The decision to undergo orthopedic surgery is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration such factors such as the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and goals.

Orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Matthew Dwyer and Dr. Christopher Phelps, at the Orthopedic Performance Institute will work closely with you to assess your condition, explore more conservative treatment options, and determine whether surgery is the most appropriate course of action.

Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio or Boerne at (210) 545-7171 for more information or to schedule an examination.

The post When do you need orthopedic surgery? appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

The CDC recently posted an article about how to be healthy, and we at Orthopedic Performance Institute decided to pull out the important info, with a focus on your bones and joints!

Here’s how you can enjoy the holidays while prioritizing your health in simple, fun ways.

Why Staying Active is Essential for Bone and Joint Health

Movement is medicine, especially for your bones and joints. Staying active during the holidays helps improve circulation, maintain muscle strength, and keep your joints mobile. The good news? You don’t need a grueling exercise regimen to reap the benefits.

• Holiday Shopping Steps: Turn your shopping trips into a workout. Walk a few laps around the mall before hitting the stores.
• Take the Stairs: Opt for stairs whenever possible—even going partway up before switching to the elevator can make a difference.
• Group Walks: Gather your friends and family for a walk after a holiday meal. Make it entertaining by turning it into a scavenger hunt.

Simple actions like these can keep your joints healthy and reduce stiffness, especially during the colder months when inactivity can creep in.

Fun, Active Holiday Traditions

Holidays are the perfect time to mix festivities with fitness. Seasonal activities bring a joyful twist to staying active:

• Explore Holiday Lights on Foot: Bundle up and walk through neighborhoods decorated with festive lights. It’s more immersive than driving and great for your step count.
• Ice Skating or Hiking: Outdoor winter activities like skating or hiking combine holiday spirit with a healthy dose of cardio.
• Yard Games or Park Activities: Set up an active group game like tag football or Frisbee during family gatherings.

These activities not only boost your physical health but also create lasting memories with loved ones.

Nutrition That Supports Your Orthopedic Health

What you eat plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and flexible joints. The holidays might tempt you with calorie-rich, sugar-laden treats, but balance is key.

• Portion Control: Indulge in festive treats in moderation, but start meals with fruits and vegetables to fill your plate with nutrients.
• Healthy Swaps: Modify traditional recipes with low-fat dairy, reduced sodium, or added spices for flavor without extra calories.
• Lean Proteins and Veggies: Opt for dishes featuring baked fish, chicken, or legumes alongside a variety of vegetables to promote bone strength.

A little creativity in the kitchen can turn holiday favorites into healthier options that everyone can enjoy.

Creative Ways to Keep the Focus Off Food

Holidays don’t have to revolve around food. Consider shifting your gatherings toward activities that engage the mind and body:

• Volunteer Together: Helping at a community center or food bank can bring meaning to the season while keeping you active.
• Explore Museums: Discover local exhibits with family or friends for a low-impact activity.
• Try Seasonal Crafts: Engaging in creative projects is a great way to connect while keeping your hands and mind busy.

By diversifying the focus of holiday gatherings, you can foster healthier traditions for years to come.

Building Long-Term Healthy Habits

Small changes made during the holidays can set the foundation for a healthier new year. Activities like regular walks, mindful eating, and enjoying nutritious meals can easily transition into year-round habits. The key is consistency and finding joy in your efforts.

For those with orthopedic conditions, these strategies aren’t just helpful during the holidays—they’re essential for maintaining mobility and reducing discomfort throughout the year. Let the season of giving inspire you to give yourself the gift of health.

Enjoy Your Healthy Holiday!

With these tips, you can fully embrace the holiday spirit while supporting your orthopedic health. So lace up those walking shoes, grab a handful of holiday veggies, and enjoy every step, laugh, and bite of the season—guilt-free!

The post Healthy Holidays: Tips for Movement and Nutrition appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

This article explores what minimally invasive hip replacement involves, who it’s for, the benefits and risks, and what patients can expect during recovery.

What is Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement?

Minimally invasive hip replacement is a type of hip surgery designed to replace a damaged or diseased hip joint using smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissues than traditional hip replacement methods. It aims to reduce pain, recovery time, and scarring while maintaining the procedure’s effectiveness. During this surgery, the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant, just as in traditional hip replacement, but with minimized tissue and muscle disruption.

There are two primary approaches for minimally invasive hip replacement:

1. Mini-posterior approach – Incision made at the back of the hip.
2. Direct anterior approach – Incision made at the front of the hip, typically resulting in less muscle disruption.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

Minimally invasive hip replacement offers several advantages over traditional methods:

• Reduced Pain and Trauma: Smaller incisions mean less damage to surrounding muscles and tissues, which can lead to reduced postoperative pain.
• Shorter Hospital Stays: Patients undergoing minimally invasive hip replacement typically experience shorter hospital stays, sometimes as brief as one day, depending on individual cases.
• Faster Recovery Time: Patients can generally return to their daily routines more quickly. The recovery process is generally smoother due to less tissue damage.
• Reduced Scarring: Smaller incisions result in less noticeable scarring, which is often important for patients concerned about cosmetic outcomes.
• Decreased Risk of Certain Complications: Since the surgery is less invasive, it often results in a lower risk of infection and blood loss.

Who is a Candidate for Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement?

Minimally invasive hip replacement is ideal for many, but it isn’t suitable for everyone. Candidates for this procedure usually meet the following criteria:

1. Active Lifestyle: Patients who are active and have strong muscles around the hip area may be better candidates for minimally invasive techniques.
2. No Severe Deformities: If the hip has significant deformity or complex anatomy, traditional hip replacement may be more effective.
3. Healthy Weight and BMI: Lower body mass index (BMI) often improves outcomes, as obesity can increase stress on the hip and raise complication risks.
4. Motivation for Rehabilitation: A strong commitment to the recovery process, including physical therapy, is essential.

It’s important for potential patients to consult their orthopedic surgeon to determine whether minimally invasive hip replacement is the right option based on their unique condition and lifestyle.

The Procedure: How Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement Works

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Before surgery, your doctor will review your medical history and assess your fitness for anesthesia and surgery. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs are used to evaluate the joint’s condition. Patients are often advised to make lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking or adjusting medications, to reduce risks.

During Surgery

The minimally invasive hip replacement surgery typically takes about 1-2 hours. After administering anesthesia, the surgeon makes a smaller incision than in traditional hip replacement surgery—usually around 3-6 inches. Using specialized tools, the surgeon replaces the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant. The type of prosthetic implant and the materials used are selected based on the patient’s age, activity level, and specific hip condition.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation

After the surgery, patients are closely monitored in the recovery room, where vital signs are observed, and pain management begins. Most patients can stand and walk with assistance on the day of the surgery or the day after. Physical therapy often starts within 24 hours to promote mobility and strengthen the hip.

Patients are typically discharged within one to two days. Recovery at home includes following a tailored physical therapy regimen, avoiding certain movements, and gradually increasing activity. Patients may be able to resume normal daily activities within four to six weeks, though full recovery can take up to three months, depending on individual factors.

Risks and Potential Complications

While minimally invasive hip replacement generally has a lower risk of complications than traditional methods, all surgeries carry some degree of risk. Common risks include:

• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries the risk of infection, although minimally invasive surgery typically lowers this risk.
• Blood Clots: Reduced mobility following surgery can increase the risk of blood clots in the legs, but preventive measures are often taken.
• Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: In rare cases, nerves or blood vessels may be injured during the procedure.
• Hip Dislocation: There’s a slight risk of the hip dislocating if the prosthetic joint doesn’t integrate well or if patients do not follow movement restrictions.

To minimize risks, surgeons use advanced imaging and planning tools to optimize each patient’s outcomes.

Recovery Tips for Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

Proper post-surgical care can expedite recovery. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Follow the Rehabilitation Program: Adhering to physical therapy exercises can significantly improve strength, mobility, and healing.
2. Stay Active, But Avoid Overexertion: Gentle movements are encouraged, but activities that place strain on the hip should be avoided.
3. Use Walking Aids: Canes, crutches, or walkers can provide necessary support as your hip gains strength.
4. Prioritize a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet supports healing, and adequate hydration is essential for overall health.
5. Manage Pain Wisely: Medications may be prescribed, but some patients also benefit from heat or ice packs.

By following these guidelines, patients can often enjoy a smoother recovery experience.

Long-Term Outlook for Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

Minimally invasive hip replacements are designed to improve quality of life and allow individuals to return to regular activities. The artificial joints used in hip replacements typically last 15-20 years, and many patients enjoy decades of improved mobility and reduced pain.

However, patients should continue to follow-up with their surgeon regularly to monitor the hip joint and detect any potential issues early. While most implants are durable, lifestyle adjustments such as avoiding high-impact activities can help prolong their lifespan.

Final Thoughts

Minimally invasive hip replacement represents a major advancement in orthopedic surgery, offering a safe and effective option for those struggling with chronic hip pain and mobility issues. If you’re considering hip replacement, consult with the team at Orthopedic Performance Institute about whether minimally invasive surgery could be right for you. We can be reached today, through our website, or by calling 210-545-7171.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to recover from a minimally invasive hip replacement?

Recovery time varies but typically spans 4-6 weeks for most daily activities, while full recovery may take up to three months.

2. Is minimally invasive hip replacement more painful than traditional surgery?

No, it is often less painful due to the reduced muscle and tissue disruption, which contributes to a quicker recovery and lower pain levels.

3. Are there age restrictions for minimally invasive hip replacement?

Age isn’t a strict factor; rather, a patient’s overall health, hip condition, and activity level determine suitability for the procedure.

4. Will I need physical therapy after a minimally invasive hip replacement?

Yes, physical therapy is essential to restore strength, mobility, and joint function and to support an optimal recovery.

5. What’s the difference between a traditional and minimally invasive hip replacement?

The primary difference is the incision size and muscle/tissue disruption. Minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions, reducing recovery time.

6. Can I drive after minimally invasive hip replacement surgery?

Most patients can drive within 2-4 weeks, but this varies depending on individual recovery rates and doctor approval.

The post What is a Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement? A Comprehensive Guide for Patients appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

• quadriceps-sparing knee replacement
• subvastus knee replacement
• muscle-sparing knee replacement

are designed to do just that. These techniques reduce muscle damage and shorten recovery time, giving you the chance to get back to your everyday activities with less pain and discomfort. Though some surgeons may have their own unique names for these methods, they all focus on a similar goal: getting you moving again faster and with less pain.

Understanding Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement

A minimally invasive knee replacement is a surgical procedure designed to replace a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant, while minimizing the impact on surrounding muscles and soft tissues. Traditional knee replacements typically involve cutting through significant muscle groups and large incisions. Minimally invasive techniques, however, use smaller incisions and work around, rather than through, major muscles.

The goal is the same: to relieve pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis or injury. However, with minimally invasive methods, patients often experience shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and reduced postoperative pain, making it an attractive option for both surgeons and patients.

The Techniques: Breaking Down the Types

1. Quadriceps-Sparing Knee Replacement

The quadriceps is one of the largest muscle groups in the body, and traditional knee replacements often require cutting through it to access the knee joint. In a quadriceps-sparing knee replacement, the surgeon avoids cutting the quadriceps tendon, which significantly reduces postoperative pain and recovery time. Instead, the surgeon works around the muscle, using a much smaller incision to access the knee joint. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who want to return to daily activities as soon as possible.

2. Subvastus Knee Replacement

The subvastus knee replacement is another minimally invasive approach, focusing on preserving the vastus medialis obliquus (VMO), a part of the quadriceps muscle. In this technique, the surgeon enters from below the vastus muscle, preserving its structure and function. By avoiding cutting into this muscle, patients can often regain full muscle strength faster, leading to a quicker recovery. This method also helps reduce blood loss during surgery, minimizing the overall trauma to the leg.

3. Muscle-Sparing Knee Replacement

Often synonymous with the other two techniques, muscle-sparing knee replacement refers broadly to any approach that minimizes muscle damage during knee replacement surgery. The goal of this technique is to preserve as much of the patient’s natural muscle structure as possible, reducing recovery time and enhancing the post-surgical experience. Whether surgeons use quadriceps-sparing or subvastus techniques, the focus is on minimizing muscle injury, which is critical for faster rehabilitation.

Why Consider a Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement?

Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery offers several key advantages over traditional methods, particularly for active individuals or those who wish to minimize their recovery time. Some of the benefits include:

• Faster Recovery: With less muscle damage and smaller incisions, patients can often return to their daily activities more quickly. Some may even resume walking without assistance in as little as 2-4 weeks, compared to 6-12 weeks with traditional surgery.
• Less Pain: By avoiding major muscle groups, minimally invasive surgery can significantly reduce the amount of postoperative pain. This often leads to less reliance on pain medications, lowering the risk of complications such as addiction or side effects.
• Reduced Scarring: The smaller incision not only heals faster but also leaves a less noticeable scar. This can be an important consideration for patients concerned about the cosmetic effects of surgery.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Many patients undergoing minimally invasive knee replacement can leave the hospital within a day or two, compared to a longer stay required for traditional surgery. In some cases, it may even be possible to have the procedure done on an outpatient basis.
• Lower Risk of Complications: Because the procedure is less invasive, there is often a reduced risk of complications such as infections or blood clots. Additionally, the preservation of muscle tissue can lead to a more stable and functional knee joint post-surgery.

Who is a Candidate for Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement?

While minimally invasive knee replacement offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for every patient. Ideal candidates generally include:

• Younger patients: Those who are younger and more active may benefit from the quicker recovery time.
• Healthier individuals: Patients with a healthy body weight and no significant comorbidities (such as heart disease or uncontrolled diabetes) tend to recover faster and have fewer complications with this type of surgery.
• Moderate arthritis: If the knee damage is not too advanced, minimally invasive techniques can be more effective. Severe deformities or very advanced arthritis might still require a traditional knee replacement approach.
• Motivated patients: Since rehabilitation after minimally invasive surgery can be more intense in the early stages, it is essential that patients are committed to the physical therapy and recovery process.

Patients who are obese, have had previous knee surgeries, or have very severe arthritis may not be the best candidates for a minimally invasive approach. In these cases, traditional knee replacement may still offer the best outcomes.

The Recovery Process: What to Expect

Recovery from minimally invasive knee replacements typically follows a faster timeline than traditional surgery. Here’s a general outline of what patients can expect:

• Day of Surgery: Most patients can start walking with assistance within hours after surgery. Pain management is often handled with oral medications rather than strong narcotics.
• 1-2 Days Post-Surgery: Patients are encouraged to start physical therapy as soon as possible. This helps to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve range of motion. Many patients are discharged from the hospital within 24-48 hours.
• 1-2 Weeks: By this time, most patients are walking with minimal assistance and can often return to light activities. Physical therapy continues to improve strength and mobility.
• 4-6 Weeks: Many patients can return to normal daily activities, including driving and walking without assistance. Physical therapy may still be ongoing to ensure full recovery.
• 3-6 Months: Full recovery, including return to sports or more strenuous activities, can take up to six months. However, most patients report significant improvements in pain and function long before this time.

Final Thoughts – A New Era in Knee Replacement Surgery

As surgical techniques advance, minimally invasive knee replacements have emerged as a powerful option for patients seeking quicker recovery, less pain, and a better overall experience. By preserving muscle tissue and using smaller incisions, surgeons can provide the same benefits of traditional knee replacements while minimizing the impact on the patient’s body.

If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, we implore you to reach out to the team at Orthopedic Performance Institute to learn whether a minimally invasive approach is right for you. With the potential for faster recovery and improved quality of life, this innovative surgery offers a promising future for many patients. Call us today at 210-545-7171 to schedule a consultation today!

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Who gets plantar fasciitis?

For obvious reasons, runners and athletes are subject to the condition, but people who are carrying too much weight can also suffer. It also afflicts older adults. And if you have a job that keeps you on your feet all day, plantar fasciitis can occur. Anything that puts too much continuous pressure on the ligament can cause it.

How can you prevent a flare-up?

Mix up your routine. If your exercise routine involves lots of running and jumping, try adding some low-impact exercises to give your plantar fascia a break.

Give it a rest. If you’re starting to feel that old familiar heel pain, don’t try to push through the pain. Your feet will thank you.

Give it a stretch. That tendon get can too tight, so you need to limber it up. You’ve seen runners do this before a big race. First, sit down with your legs extended straight out in front of you. Grab your toes and pull them toward you to give the tendon a stretch, but not too hard. Next, stand facing a wall and position your foot flat on the ground behind you. Hold for about 30 seconds per foot.

Wear the correct shoes. Don’t wear shoes that are too tight — or too loose. The shoes that fit right will support your heel and prevent flare-ups. We can also recommend some inserts to provide additional support.

Try over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. It will reduce swelling and the accompanying pain.

In summary…

The best way to treat plantar fasciitis is to not get it at all. If you’re still feeling those symptoms after trying these treatments, don’t wait. Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio to have your condition examined by an expert!

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What does calcium do for our bones?

Our bodies are comprised of many different minerals, such as iron and magnesium, but the most abundant mineral in the body is calcium.

Our bones are partly made of calcium salts (mixtures of calcium with other minerals), especially calcium phosphate. Calcium phosphate hardens and strengthens bone.

Since our bodies cannot make calcium, we need to get it from foods and drinks to build strong bones and teeth and to keep them healthy. Healthy bones are less likely to break if we have a traumatic injury.

What happens to our bones without enough calcium?

Calcium does more than build strong bone. It also helps our muscles, heart, and nerves work properly.

If we do not get enough calcium in our diets, our bodies take the calcium we need from our bones. Over time, this process makes bones weaker and raises the risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that renders our bones weak and brittle, and people with osteoporosis have a higher risk of fractures.

How much calcium do we need?

The amount of calcium each person needs depends on their age and sex. Here’s how much calcium people need every day to keep their bones strong and healthy.

Source: National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements

Which foods have calcium?

The best food sources of calcium are milk and other dairy products, like cheese and yogurt. Other food sources of calcium include:

• Fish (such as salmon and tuna)
• Leafy green vegetables (such as kale and turnip greens)
• Tofu (set with calcium)
• Small fish with bones (including sardines and canned salmon)

Some foods and drinks are fortified with calcium. A food is fortified when the manufacturer adds vitamins or minerals that the food does not naturally have. Examples of foods fortified with calcium are certain brands of juice, soymilk, oatmeal and breakfast cereal.

Some supplements contain calcium. Talk to your health care provider, such as the professionals at the Orthopedic Performance Institute, if you are considering whether or not to take a calcium supplement.

What does vitamin D do for our bones?

Vitamin D promotes bone health in these ways:

• Helps absorb the calcium we get from food.
• Along with calcium, helps protects older adults from osteoporosis.
• Promotes healthy functioning of our muscles and immune system. We need strong muscles to maintain our balance and reduce the risk of falling and breaking bones.

What happens to our bones without enough vitamin D?

When children do not get enough vitamin D, they can develop rickets. With this condition, the bones become soft, weak, deformed and painful.

In adults, too little vitamin D over time can cause:

• Osteomalacia, a painful condition that makes bones and muscles weak and more likely to bend and break.
• Osteoporosis.

How much vitamin D do we need?

Source: National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements

In the United States, most people do not consume enough vitamin D to meet recommended intakes. Some vitamin D can be made in the body with sun exposure but many people have low vitamin D status.

Which foods have vitamin D?

Not many foods have vitamin D. Some kinds of fish can provide some of the vitamin D we need each day. Examples are:

• Trout
• Salmon
• Tuna
• Mackerel

Most of the vitamin D that Americans get from food comes from fortified foods. Most milk and some yogurts in the United States are fortified with vitamin D, but most other dairy products do not have added vitamin D.

Other foods that may be fortified (check the label to be sure) include:

• Ready-to-eat breakfast cereals
• Orange juice

Some supplements contain vitamin D. Again, consult your health care provider if you are considering taking a vitamin D supplement.

If you’re concerned about your bone strength, a bone density test can help alleviate your worries. Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio at (210) 545-7171 for more information.

Medical information provided by the National Institutes of Health.

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