Two of the most common shoulder conditions, rotator cuff tears and frozen shoulder, often share overlapping symptoms, yet they are very different problems that require different approaches to treatment.

Understanding the difference between a rotator cuff tear and frozen shoulder is an important first step toward relief. While both can limit movement and cause ongoing pain, the source of the problem, how symptoms develop, and how each condition is treated can vary significantly. Let’s take a closer look at each condition and how to tell them apart.

What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, helping to stabilize the arm and allow smooth, controlled movement, especially overhead motions.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons become damaged or torn. Tears can range from partial (where the tendon is frayed or weakened) to full-thickness tears (where the tendon is completely detached from the bone).

Rotator cuff tears are often caused by:

• Acute injuries, such as a fall, lifting something heavy, or a sudden jerking motion
• Repetitive overhead activities, common in certain sports or occupations
• Degenerative wear and tear, which becomes more common with age

Because the rotator cuff is responsible for strength and stability, tears often lead to weakness as well as pain. Some people may notice symptoms suddenly after an injury, while others develop discomfort gradually over time.

What Is Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint. Instead of a torn tendon, the problem involves thickening and tightening of the joint capsule, which leads to stiffness, pain, and a significant reduction in movement.

Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly and progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: Pain gradually increases, and shoulder movement becomes more limited.
2. Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness becomes more severe, making everyday activities difficult.
3. Thawing Stage: Range of motion slowly improves over time.

The exact cause of frozen shoulder isn’t always clear, but it is more common in individuals who:

• Have had prolonged shoulder immobilization after injury or surgery.
• Have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.
• Are between the ages of 40 and 60.

Unlike rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder is primarily a condition of stiffness rather than structural damage to tendons.

How Symptoms Differ Between Rotator Cuff Tears and Frozen Shoulder

Although both conditions cause shoulder pain, the type of pain and how it behaves can offer helpful clues.

With a rotator cuff tear, pain often:

• Worsens with overhead activity or lifting.
• Feels sharper during certain movements.
• Is accompanied by noticeable weakness.
• May make it difficult to raise or lower the arm smoothly.

Many patients with rotator cuff tears also report trouble performing tasks that require strength, such as lifting objects or reaching behind their back.

With frozen shoulder, pain is typically:

• More constant and achy.
• Worse at night or when trying to move the shoulder beyond a limited range.
• Less associated with weakness and more with stiffness.

Patients with frozen shoulder also often describe feeling like their shoulder is “stuck” or locked in place.

Differences in Range of Motion

One of the most important distinctions between a rotator cuff tear and frozen shoulder lies in how range of motion is affected.

In rotator cuff tears, patients may still be able to move their shoulder through a fairly normal range when someone else assists them. However, active movement — using their own muscles — may be painful or weak.

With frozen shoulder, both active and passive range of motion are significantly restricted. Even when a clinician tries to move the shoulder, stiffness limits how far it can go.

Causes and Risk Factors Differ, Too

Rotator cuff tears are more commonly linked to mechanical stress, repetitive motion, or traumatic injury. Athletes, manual laborers, and older adults are at higher risk.

Frozen shoulder, on the other hand, is often associated with systemic conditions or periods of immobility. Sometimes, it develops after a shoulder injury that wasn’t properly rehabilitated, even if the initial injury was relatively minor.

When Shoulder Pain Should Be Evaluated by a Specialist

Not all shoulder pain requires immediate medical care, but certain signs should prompt an evaluation by an orthopedic shoulder specialist. These include:

• Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Significant loss of range of motion
• Weakness that interferes with daily activities
• Pain that disrupts sleep
• Symptoms following a fall or injury

Early evaluation is especially important because delayed treatment can lead to prolonged recovery or worsening symptoms, particularly with frozen shoulder.

How an Accurate Diagnosis Is Made

Diagnosing shoulder conditions begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your orthopedic doctor or sports medicine specialist will assess pain patterns, strength, and range of motion to identify key differences between conditions.

Imaging studies often play an important role as well. X-rays may be used to rule out arthritis or bone issues, while advanced imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, can provide detailed views of soft tissues like tendons and ligaments. These tools allow physicians to confirm whether a rotator cuff tear is present or if stiffness from frozen shoulder is the primary issue.

Accurate diagnosis is essential because treatment strategies differ significantly between these two conditions.

Getting the Right Treatment for Shoulder Pain

If shoulder pain, stiffness, or weakness is affecting your quality of life, the experienced orthopedic physicians at Premier Orthopaedics are here to help. Our team serves patients throughout the Greater Philadelphia area and provides comprehensive care for a wide range of shoulder conditions. Treatment options may include physical therapy, targeted injections, and, when necessary, advanced surgical care to restore function and relieve pain.

Don’t let shoulder discomfort hold you back from the activities you enjoy. Schedule an appointment with Premier Orthopaedics today to receive an accurate diagnosis and start the right treatment plan for lasting relief.

The post Rotator Cuff Tear or Frozen Shoulder? Here’s How to Tell the Difference appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

Compression therapy involves the use of specially designed garments or devices that apply gentle pressure to your legs. This pressure helps promote blood flow from the lower extremities back to the heart. For individuals dealing with poor circulation, compression therapy can be an effective, non-invasive way to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.

If you’ve been dealing with leg pain or have been diagnosed with a vascular condition and are considering your options, our guide can help you understand the different types of compression therapy and the many benefits this treatment can offer.

The Different Types of Compression Therapy

When people hear “compression therapy,” they often picture the beige, clinical-looking stockings their grandparents might have worn. While compression stockings are certainly a major part of this therapy, the field has evolved significantly since then. Today, there are various types and styles of compression garments and devices available. Each is designed to meet different clinical needs and personal preferences, and understanding these options is the first step toward finding the right solution for you.

Compression Stockings and Socks

These medical-grade garments are engineered to provide a specific level of pressure (measured in mmHg). The pressure of the compression sock or stocking is also graduated, meaning it will be tightest at the ankle and gradually decrease up the leg. This design is crucial because it helps push blood upward, against gravity, toward the heart.

Compression socks and stockings are typically categorized in the following ways:

• Mild Compression (8-15 mmHg): Often available over-the-counter, these stockings are great for providing relief from tired, achy legs. They are popular among those who stand or sit for long periods, as well as travelers who want to prevent swelling during long flights.
• Moderate Compression (15-20 mmHg): This is the most frequently recommended level for managing mild to moderate varicose veins, preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during travel, and for use during pregnancy to prevent venous issues.
• Firm Compression (20-30+ mmHg): This level is typically prescribed by a doctor for more significant conditions, such as moderate to severe varicose veins, post-surgical recovery, managing lymphedema, and treating active venous ulcers.

Compression stockings come in various lengths (knee-high, thigh-high, waist-high/pantyhose) and an ever-expanding array of colors and materials, making them more discreet and comfortable than ever before.

Compression Bandages and Wraps

For managing a venous leg ulcer or significant swelling after an injury, a doctor might use compression bandaging. A simple ace bandage may be used to provide firm compression to reduce swelling and improve circulation to the wounded area. Alternatively, a wrap with adjustable Velcro straps may be recommended to adjust the compression level as healing progresses.

Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) Devices

For more severe conditions or for patients who cannot tolerate static compression garments, an IPC device may be recommended. This system consists of inflatable sleeves for the legs that are connected to a pump. The pump cyclically inflates and deflates different chambers within the sleeve, essentially “massaging” the limb. This milking action is highly effective at moving fluid and blood out of the limb, reducing severe edema and preventing blood clots, especially in post-operative or bedridden patients.

The Incredible Benefits of Compression Therapy

The simple act of applying external pressure to the legs initiates a cascade of positive physiological effects that are fundamental to managing and preventing vascular disease. Here’s a closer look at the many benefits of compression therapy:

Enhances Blood Circulation

In chronic venous insufficiency, the valves in your leg veins that help push blood back to the heart become damaged or weakened. Gravity then causes blood to flow backward and pool in the lower legs, a condition known as venous reflux. Compression therapy counteracts this by narrowing the diameter of the veins. This increases the velocity and volume of blood flow, helping to push it back toward the heart and reducing the venous pressure in the legs.

Reduces Swelling (Edema)

The increased pressure in the veins (venous hypertension) can force fluid out of the capillaries and into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling (also known as edema). Compression helps address edema in two ways: it prevents excess fluid from leaking out of the capillaries, and it pushes the existing fluid from the tissue back into the capillaries and lymphatic vessels so it can be carried away. This reduction in swelling is often one of the first and most noticeable benefits of compression therapy.

Alleviates Pain and Discomfort

The symptoms of CVI — aching, throbbing, cramping, heaviness, and fatigue in the legs — are largely due to blood pooling and increased venous pressure. By improving blood flow and reducing swelling, compression therapy directly addresses the root cause of this discomfort. Many patients report a significant improvement in pain management and overall leg comfort with consistent use of compression therapy.

Prevents Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. It’s a risk during long periods of immobility, such as after surgery or during long-haul flights. Thankfully, compression (particularly IPC devices) can make it harder for blood to stagnate and clot, which significantly reduces the risk of DVT.

Aids in Healing and Preventing Venous Ulcers

Venous ulcers are open sores that can develop on the legs, typically around the ankle, as a result of long-term, untreated venous insufficiency. The sustained high pressure in the veins damages the skin from the inside out. Compression therapy, then, can help with ulcer treatment. This is because it reduces the underlying venous hypertension and swelling and creates the necessary environment for the ulcer to heal.

Manages Varicose and Spider Veins

While compression won’t make existing varicose veins disappear, it is highly effective at managing their symptoms and slowing their progression. For example, by supporting the veins and preventing blood from pooling, it can reduce their bulging appearance and alleviate the associated pain and swelling.

Looking for Vascular Health Solutions? Talk to Premier Orthopaedics

If you’re dealing with chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, leg ulcers, or persistent swelling, the team at Premier Orthopaedics can help you find relief. Our state-of-the-art Vein & Vascular Center is designed specifically to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of vascular health conditions, and we can perform a thorough evaluation to understand the root cause of your symptoms.

Based on your diagnosis, we will recommend the most effective treatment plan for you. For many patients, this begins with conservative, non-operative treatment options, such as compression therapy. For those with more advanced symptoms, we offer a range of cutting-edge, minimally invasive CVI treatments. These procedures are performed in our office, require little to no downtime, and provide significant, lasting relief. They include:

• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses gentle radiofrequency energy to heat and close the diseased vein.
• Sclerotherapy: Involves injecting a solution into the vein that causes it to collapse and fade away.
• Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT): Uses laser energy to seal the problematic vein shut.

Take control of your vascular health today by scheduling an appointment with the experts at Premier Orthopaedics. We’ll help you find the right vascular and vein treatment options for healthier legs and a more active, comfortable life.

The post How Compression Therapy Supports Vascular Health appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

Understanding the Importance of Vascular Health

Your vascular system includes arteries, veins, and capillaries which are responsible for carrying, blood throughout your body. Conditions such as high blood pressure, smoking, and not getting enough exercise can harm your vascular health and lead to serious health issues such as deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins. Knowing the signs of these issues can help you get treatment early. Chronic Venous Disease (CVD), for example, can become very painful if not treated. CVD is a medical condition involving blood flow that affects the veins in your lower extremities (legs, feet, etc.) Vascular care clinics can help keep your veins and arteries in good shape.

Identify Key Factors That Affect Vascular Health

Arteries and veins are like highways for blood in your body. How well they work can be affected by your lifestyle and genetics. During a leg arterial and venous check-up, specialists see how well your blood vessels are doing. Finding problems early can help prevent them from getting worse.

Recognize Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

Watching for the signs of vascular disease can be very important. Symptoms like leg pain while walking, numbness in your limbs, wounds that don’t heal, or changes in skin color should be checked by a doctor. There are tests that doctors use that can check your blood flow and pressure. If you have a vascular condition that’s affecting your health, treatments like angioplasty and stenting may help. Angioplasty uses a balloon to open up blocked arteries, and stenting puts a tiny tube in the artery to keep it open. Early treatment can help manage and improve your vascular health.

The Impact of Diet and Exercise on Vascular Disease Prevention

Eating healthy foods and exercising can help prevent vascular disease. The type of foods you eat may affect your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are important for avoiding problems like chronic venous insufficiency (leg veins are not working to get blood back to the heart) and varicose veins (bulging enlarged veins). Regular exercise can help with blood flow, reduce symptoms, and slow down these conditions. By checking your vascular health regularly and making lifestyle changes, you can improve your circulation and protect yourself from vascular diseases.

Outline a Heart-Healthy Diet Plan

Eating heart-healthy foods are important for vein and artery health. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to your diet. These foods support good blood flow and help prevent circulatory problems. Experts often recommend diets low in sodium and saturated fats, but high in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish and flaxseed), which help keep your arteries healthy.

Regular Exercises for Improving Vascular Health

Getting regular exercise can reduce your risk of vascular diseases. Activities like swimming, cycling, and walking improve circulation and help with leg swelling and pain. Regular movement helps you stay aware of your body and can aid in early detection of vein problems.

Ways to Participate in Vascular Disease Awareness Month

September is a great time to help raise awareness about vascular diseases. You can Share educational resources on social media and highlight minimally invasive treatments. Your actions can boost awareness and encourage people to take proactive steps for their vascular health.

Regular Medical Check-Ups Among At-Risk Groups

If you’re at high risk for vascular diseases, regular medical check-ups are important. Certain medical conditions can be managed with treatments if detected early. Also, there are medications available that can help prevent strokes and blood clots. Please consult with your primary care physician for more information on these medications and treatments

The post September is National Vascular Disease Awareness Month appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

1.) Hiking is a phenomenal full-body workout, and a great way to enjoy nature. Since hiking is a weight-bearing exercise, you’re able to build muscle mass, reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, and boost your bone density. However, when embarking on a hiking adventure, it’s important to wear the proper footwear to prevent injuries. “Investing in a sturdy pair of hiking boots will save your feet when trekking through the trails,” says podiatrist Vincent Muscarella, DPM. “Hiking can cause several foot-related problems, such as arch pain, blisters, sprains and fractures. Purchasing proper-fitting hiking boots that are lightweight, durable and waterproof will allow you to walk for miles without discomfort and lessen the chance you’ll slip and get hurt,” explains Dr. Muscarella.

2.) It’s that time of year to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement. Running is a beneficial spring activity for not only your physical health but also your mental well-being. Going for a run regularly can reduce stress, improve heart health and strengthens joints. With that being said, running is commonly known to cause orthopaedic injuries, such as runner’s knee – a common term to describe a condition that causes pain around the kneecap. “Runner’s knee occurs when there is repeated stress on the knee joint,” explains orthopaedic surgeon Dennis McHugh, D.O. “To prevent runner’s knee, you should always stretch, strengthen your muscles, wear proper running sneakers, and gradually increase your training regimen,” states Dr. McHugh.

3.) Shooting hoops and playing a game of pick-up ball is a fun, competitive workout with many health benefits – like improving your endurance, coordination and balance. Nonetheless, all sorts of injuries can occur when at play. “While basketball is an enjoyable, fast-paced sport, players can sustain sprained ankles, broken or jammed fingers, and strained muscles, among other injuries,” states orthopaedic surgeon Timothy Amann, D.O. “Before stepping on the court, you should stretch your muscles, wear the appropriate attire and ensure the environment is safe to prevent injuries,” says Dr. Amann.

4.) With the weather clearing up and roads being ice-free, cycling is another popular spring activity. Biking is a top-notch cardio workout that strengthens your lower extremities. Cyclists typically do not sustain serious injuries, but if they do, it’s commonly hand and wrist fractures. When falling off a bike, the natural reaction is to extend your arms, which can injure your upper extremities. “Landing on an outstretched arm can cause hand and wrist fractures or sprains,” explains John Pasquella, D.O. “While not all falls can be avoided, it’s best to take the right precautions to prevent the possibility. When cycling, be aware of your surroundings, maintain proper posture and wear appropriate gear to prevent skin abrasions (i.e., padded gloves),” states Dr. Pasquella.

Be sure to enjoy the weather and partake in spring activities that get your body moving. If you or someone you know needs orthopaedic care, Premier’s specialists are here to help. To schedule an appointment, please call our East Norriton office at 610-630-4414 or request an appointment online.

The post Spring Exercises: Staying Active and Injury-Free appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

In response, Premier Orthopaedics is now leveraging an investment in technology to offer patients access to our musculoskeletal experts from the comfort of their homes. Patients can schedule a telemedicine appointment to see one of our physicians on a mobile phone, tablet or home computer. This “video visit” service offers a safe, effective, valuable way to maintain care for patients who are immunocompromised or otherwise unable to visit the office. To schedule a telemedicine appointment please fill out an online appointment form or call 1-855-ORTHO24 (1-855-678-4624).

It remains our privilege to be your orthopaedic provider of choice. Should you decide to visit us in person, please know that our offices continue to follow a rigorous infection prevention protocol that includes screening our patients and staff for illness, maintaining social distancing, and aggressively disinfecting our offices and clinics.

Please visit this page for updates and more information on Premier Orthopaedics’ ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic.

From all of us at Premier – Thank you and stay safe!

The post Premier Orthopaedics Now Offering Telemedicine Visits appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

Most joints are repaired between the ages of 50 and 80; the average age of people undergoing hip and knee surgeries is about 66. The technology and design of joint replacements have improved dramatically over the past 10-15 years and continue to improve.

Patients at any age can suffer from debilitating pain resulting from an underlying condition, such as osteoarthritis or a sports or traumatic injury, to name a few. Those who are overweight or obese are more prone to joint pain. When non-invasive options such as medication (acetaminophen, naproxen, etc.) and exercise do not relieve painful symptoms, joint replacement is likely to be the next step. These procedures generally remove the damaged part of the joint and replace (actually resurface) it with an artificial or prosthetic implant made of either metal, ceramic or plastic that emulates the movement of a healthy joint. Dr. Trevlyn adds, “Patients who undergo joint surgery often say they wished they did it years ago. It’s literally a game-changer in terms of enhancing one’s quality of life.”

If you are experiencing pain in any of your joints, speak to your doctor about ways to relieve it. He or she will evaluate your condition and lifestyle, and work with you to determine the best course of action – always exploring non-surgical options first.

To make an appointment with a Premier orthopaedist at Crozer-Keystone, please call 1-855-255-6468.

The post I know hips and knees can be replaced, but what about other joints? appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

ART is a soft tissue technique developed by Michael Leahy, DC. Originally this technique was used in elite athletes who have musculoskeletal injuries, with the goal of returning them to top performance as quickly as possible. It has evolved over time into a series of techniques that can be applied to every area of the body with amazing results.  Using only a few fingers or a single thumb, experienced hands, and an understanding of the complaint, an ART provider can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and get you moving quickly.

At its core, ART is simple; your practitioner will take a detailed history of the complaint, examine all areas at and around the injury site, determine the best location to start treatment, and then treat the affected area. The sensation during treatment can range from a stretch/burning to uncomfortable or painful depending on the type of injury and how long the area has been injured. The most common sensation reported during treatment is a mild to moderate skin-burn, often described as a “good-hurt”.

At this point, you are probably wondering what does ART do? And how does this work? The answers are not so cut-and-dry. The main theory of ART is based in myofascial release and releasing scar tissue, more commonly referred to as “adhesions”.  Adhesions form in the body from an injury that creates a “sticking” point in one or multiple areas where the tissue stops moving normally. This can result in range of motion loss, pain, swelling, weakness, and nerve entrapments (think numbness/tingling). The practitioner, once he or she has located the adhesion, will use their hands to pin the muscle of the affected area and move that muscle opposite to their localized thumb pressure, thus creating a shearing force to “break” the adhesion and free the muscle. Another theory of how ART works is based in deep pressure and altering pain feedback. This theory states that by using deep pressure at an area of injury and moving the body part through a “lost” range of motion, the practitioner can disrupt the pain cycle and break up muscle spasm, thus returning normal movement to the area. After practicing these techniques daily for the past 3 years, I personally lean towards the second theory.

Regardless of the exact mechanism of how ART works, it certainly has results behind it.  ART has been shown to be one of the few hands-on techniques that is minimally painful while resulting in an almost immediate decrease in pain, improved flexibility, increase in strength, and mild-moderate decrease in swelling to an injured area. In the case of nerve entrapments (numbness/tingling), it can even improve sensation. Due to these reasons, ART is applicable to almost all patients, any age, any body type, and almost all injuries. Reasons to not perform ART to a patient would include: skin disorders, bleeding disorders, surgical protocols, mental disability, and general safety concern.  The decision to perform or not perform ART is ultimately up to the provider and the specific patients’ health screen.

Some of the main uses of ART include (but are not limited to) treatment of:

• Cervical Pain
• TMJ (jaw pain/clicking)
• Headaches/ Migraines
• Postural Deficits
• Back pain
• Sports injury (chronic/ repetitive)
• Dental
• Frozen shoulder/ Adhesive Capsulitis
• Joint Pain
• Arthritis
• Tendinopathies (tennis/golfers’ elbow, patellar tendonitis, Achilles tendonitis, etc.)
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Carpal tunnel
• Nerve entrapments
• Radiculopathy
• Pinched nerve
• Edema/swelling/inflammation
• Weakness

ART Providers within Premier Orthopaedics:

Location: Paoli

4 Industrial Boulevard, Suite 150
Paoli, PA, 19301
Phone: 610-640-4133
Timothy Corker, DPT, ART (full body)

Location: West Chester

1161 McDermott Drive
West Chester, PA,19380
Phone: 484-356-9401
Michael Wilson, DPT, OCS, ART (full body)

Location: Ridley

501 West MacDade Boulevard, 2nd Floor
Folsom, PA, 19033
Phone: 610.586.7000
John Connors, PT, MDT, ART (full body)

Location: Brinton Lake

300 Evergreen Drive, Suite 220
Glen Mills, PA, 19342
Phone: 610-579-3650
Lauren Dengler, DPT, ART (full body)

Timothy Corker, DPT, ART
Premier Physical Therapist

The post Exploring New Physical Therapies: Active Release Technique appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

Over 75% of Americans own a mobile device, with 95% of that group being 18-29 year olds, while 53% own some form of tablet. Neck pain from use of a mobile device has been shown to be as high as 60% in certain populations. Ergonomic studies have shown that when the neck is in the neutral or normal upright position, there is about 10 pounds of force on it. When the neck is flexed forward to 45 degrees, as with looking down at a device, the force exerted reaches almost 50 pounds!

Text Neck develops due to the prolonged, repetitive postural changes placing stress on the neck and back. This affects the normal spinal curvatures as well as supporting ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones and joints. Stress on these structures can lead to arthritis, spinal malalignment and degeneration, disc compression and herniation, and ultimately muscle and nerve damage. Pain may be felt in the neck, back, shoulders, upper and lower arms, as well as the wrists. Other symptoms may include headaches and arm numbness or tingling. Although position change can limit stress to a particular area, there continues to be abnormal stresses whether in the standing, upright seated or semi-reclined positions.

Understanding the problem and prevention strategies are the best way to avoid Text Neck Syndrome. Ensure that the reading angle of your device is at eye level; if seated, keep your shoulders back and your head over your shoulders. Use pillows, tables or trays to support your arms and maintain better upright posture. Avoid excessive usage and take frequent breaks. Technology use is unavoidable for some; with this in mind, basic range of motion and stretching exercises should be performed routinely. But not all exercises work for everyone so consulting a physician for further guidance can be beneficial especially if you’ve noted any symptoms starting to occur.

Mark Tantorski, DO Premier Orthopaedics Spine Surgeon.

Learn more about Dr. Tantorski here

The post Neck Pain and Mobile Devices appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

A complete history and physical examination, along with imaging are often necessary to identify the cause of the symptoms. Radiographs, CAT Scan or MRI may be warranted.  In most cases, conservative management can achieve resolution of symptoms.  Education, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and different types of injections are very effective treatment options. In certain cases, surgery can be the most appropriate option to relieve symptoms, preventing permanent disability and allowing for return to an active lifestyle.

Historically, various types of fusion surgery have been used as the standard of care.  These surgeries have proven to be extremely safe and effective. They are still performed today and continue to provide excellent outcomes for patients. One concern with any type of fusion procedure is the limitation of movement in the region. The spine has multiple moving levels that work together to provide the normal movement of the neck and back. Fusion at one level can impact the other levels and, in time potentially lead to problems at the other levels. Over the past several years, Cervical Disc Replacement has become a popular option for treating neck problems.

Extensive testing has shown that, under the right circumstances, Cervical Disc Replacement can be an excellent surgical option. In addition to being a minimally invasive procedure, it allows for preservation of motion, while limiting the risk of other levels wearing out.

Dr. Mark Tantorski is an orthopaedic surgeon in Chester County with subspecialty training in the surgical management of adult spinal disorders. To find out if Cervical Disc Replacement is right for you, and to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Tantorski’s office at 610-692-6280. Dr. Tantorski believes seeing individuals for all their spinal care needs is a partnership. Patients are vital in determining the best options for care with symptom relief and getting back to doing everything they want in life as the main goals.

The post Cervical Disc Replacement May Be a Great Option for You appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

Best ‘Before’ Snacks:

When you’re gearing up for a workout, stick to carbs, carbs, carbs! Carbs provide valuable energy, and by mixing complex carbohydrates with simple ones you can ensure the energy is slow and steady so that you don’t experience an unwanted crash in the middle of your workout.

• Whole wheat and fruit – think banana and peanut butter on whole wheat toast. The whole wheat keeps you going with steady energy, while the banana adds an extra kick and extra flavor. Training for a marathon? Potassium is your best friend, which dramatically drops when you’re sweating. For an added boost, sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor, and for stabilizing blood sugar and getting rid of “brain fog,” providing the focus you need for your newfound workout energy.
• Greek yogurt and trail mix – yogurt is easy on your stomach and provides valuable protein for the workout ahead. Choose a trail mix that is all nuts and dried fruit, without any chocolate or candy. Dried fruit is the right kind of sugar and provides a fast energy boost. Nuts and seeds keep blood sugar where it needs to be so that you can make it all the way through your workout without lagging. Remember seeds and nuts are high in fat, so they take awhile for your body to process. A little bit goes a long way.

Best ‘After’ Snacks:

When you finish a workout, your body begins “recovery” mode, so you need to replace nutrients you have lost. Strive for a nutrient-dense dish – lean proteins and mixed vegetables grilled in olive oil. Stick to fresh and heart-healthy proteins, rich in carbohydrates and energy replenishing after a rigorous workout.

• Chicken and salmon – Pairing chicken or salmon with mixed vegetables or sweet potatoes helps to get your system back to neutral. Chicken provides healthy carbohydrates, replacing energy without making you feel too full. Salmon is ideal for inflammation reduction, regulating blood sugar levels and supporting joint health. Mixed vegetables and sweet potatoes offer valuable nutrients that get depleted after a long workout.
• Chocolate milk – Chocolate milk is the trendiest post-workout snack lately. Athletes have started replacing water and sports drinks. It has everything you need for post-workout – good carbohydrates, protein for muscle recovery, water for hydration, calcium, sodium, and sugar. Every ingredient in this childhood-favorite helps recover fully and quickly.

The post Best Foods To Eat Before and After a Workout appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.