Through the JOI Foundation, employees of JOI have a very active role in our communities. Therefore, the JOI community news section of the website features events and activities that we are involved with.
We are proud of the work that our foundation supports in our community. JOI employees volunteer countless hours to support these charities and many others. If you are interested in donating financially to the JOI Foundation or volunteering your time, please let us know by the contact us page. We certainly want to make a positive influence in the North Florida Area.
Finally, to learn more about the JOI Foundation, go to: JOI Foundation
New Patient Appointment Line: 904-564-2000, Fax: 904-996-9412 or schedule online.
To schedule follow-up appointments or cancel and reschedule appointments, please go to the Patient Portal.
Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute (JOI) wants to alert our patients about an online bill payment website called DOXO.com. While this site may appear to be affiliated with JOI, it is NOT. DOXO.com is a third-party website that allows users to pay bills online—but it is not authorized by or connected to Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute in any way.
Using DOXO.com may result in:
Delayed payments: Payments made through this third-party service are not received by JOI immediately, which can lead to processing delays and potential account issues.
Additional fees: DOXO.com may charge extra service fees that are not associated with JOI’s billing process.
Billing confusion: Because JOI has no control over this platform, we cannot verify payments or assist with issues that arise from using DOXO.com.
To ensure your payment is processed safely and directly through JOI, please use our official, secure payment portal or call our billing department at 904-858-6422.
Ankle injuries are extremely common and affect people of all ages and sizes. Whether you have a sprain, fracture, or old injury, learning how to manage an ankle injury is important for a successful recovery. When ankle injuries are left untreated, they can lead to long-term complications and reduce your mobility.
Understanding Ankle Injuries
“Ankle Injuries” is a very vague saying. The ankle can experience mild to severe sprains, fractures, strains, and tendon injuries. Each injury has its own set of symptoms, causes, and treatments. Understanding the differences between ankle injuries is the first step in finding treatments for effective management.
1. Ankle Injuries:
Sprains: One of the most common ankle injuries is a sprain. Sprains usually happen when the ligaments connecting the bones in the ankle are stretched or torn. Twisting or rolling your ankle can cause an ankle sprain, which can cause pain, swelling, and bruising.
Fracture: An ankle fracture, or break, can happen to one or more ankle joint bones. This injury usually occurs from high-impact activities like a sports accident, a car crash, or a fall.
Strains: An ankle strain is where the muscles or tendons around the ankle are overworked or misused. Strains affect the soft tissue, not the ligaments.
Tendon Injuries: Achilles tendinitis and tears are the most common tendon injuries of the ankle. These injuries develop over time due to improper foot and ankle use and movements.
Ankle Instability When experiencing repeated sprains or injuries, instability of the ankle can occur. This creates chronic pain that results in difficulty walking and frequent ankle rolling.
2. Common Causes of Ankle Injuries:
Sports and Exercise: Ankle injuries in sports and exercises, especially those that involve running, are widespread. One misstep can lead to a sprain, strain, or fracture.
Falls: Tripping or falling while walking on an uneven surface can lead to injury. These incidents can result in rolling or twisting the foot, causing an injury like a sprain, strain, or fracture.
Footwear: Your shoes can play a big role in causing injury. Wearing shoes without proper support will increase the risk of injury, especially in high-impact activities.
Overuse: Overusing the ankle without rest or a proper warm-up increases the risk of ankle injuries.
Understanding Ankle Anatomy
The ankle’s anatomy is complex. It consists of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work together to provide stability and mobility when standing, walking, or running. Understanding the anatomy will help clarify the different ankle injuries and how they affect the joint space.
Bones: The shin (tibia), fibula, and talus form the ankle joint. The heel (calcaneus) is another important bone that plays a major role in weight bearing.
Ligaments: Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bones. The main ligaments of the ankle are the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL).
Tendons: Tendons are what connect the muscles to the bones. The Achilles tendon plays a major role in walking, running, and standing, and is also prone to injury or overuse.
Muscles: Several muscles provide support and help movement, including the tibialis anterior and peroneal muscles.
Ankle Injuries: Recognizing Symptoms
After learning about the different ankle injuries and the anatomy involved, you need to understand the symptoms to best identify the injury you may have experienced. While some ankle injuries share the same symptoms, there are common signs to look out for.
Pain: Pain usually occurs first and tends to be the most obvious symptom. Depending on the injury and severity, it can range from a dull ache to a sharp or stabbing sensation.
Swelling: Swelling typically happens due to inflammation and can range from mild to severe.
Bruising: Bruising is a common indicator of a sprain, strain, or fracture. Bruising can develop over time or happen immediately after injury.
Instability and Limited Range of Motion: Ankle injuries, especially those that cause ligament damage, can make the ankle feel unstable or weak. This can reduce your range of motion and lead to pain when moving the ankle or walking.
After evaluating your symptoms, it is important to be able to differentiate between mild and severe injury.
Severe Injuries: Grade three sprains or strains, fractures, and ligament tears are all categorized as severe injuries. These ankle injuries involve complete tears of ligaments or tendons and breaks of the bones in the ankle. The pain, swelling, and bruising will be more severe and will majorly impact your mobility. Surgery may be needed. Immediately find medical attention to ensure full recovery.
Mild Injuries: Grade one sprains or strains are categorized as mild and often lead to mild pain, swelling, and tenderness. Typically, mobility has no major impact, and the ankle can be healed from resting and icing.
Moderate Injuries: Grade two sprains or strains are typically caused by partial tearing of the ligaments or tendons. This can lead to more significant pain, swelling, and bruising. With proper treatment, walking will become easier and the pain more bearable.
Surgery for Ankle Injuries
While most mild and moderate ankle injuries can be managed at home with rest, some severe cases may need surgery to ensure a full and successful recovery. Here are some common ankle surgeries:
Ankle Arthroscopy: This is a minimally invasive surgery that involves repairing or cleaning damaged tissue, like cartilage or inflamed areas. This is used to treat minor fractures, ligaments, and joint arthritis.
Ligament Repair: In severe cases of ligament tears, surgery may be needed to stitch the ligaments back together.
Fracture Fixation with Plates and Screws: Surgery may be needed to realign the bones after a fracture occurs. Metal plates, screws, and pins may be used to secure the fractured site.
Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis): If severe joint damage has occurred, an ankle fusion may be needed. This will fuse the bones of the ankle joint to reduce pain and provide stability.
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
Our goal at JOI is to provide high-quality care to our patients. Our team of expert physicians understands the pain ankle injuries cause and strives to help your recovery process. Book an appointment today to start your recovery process!
Shoulder pain can be debilitating and affect your everyday life, even with small tasks like reaching for a shelf. Whether the injury is a rotator cuff tear, arthritis, or sports-related, your daily life can be severely impacted. There are several options for shoulder pain relief, like pain management or surgery. A less invasive option that has recently become popular is shoulder arthroscopy.
What is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows proper diagnosis and treatment of shoulder pain. The physician makes a small incision and uses an arthroscope to view the shoulder joint. The arthroscope is a thin tube with a camera that provides images of the joint space and surrounding anatomy, like the bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. This allows a detailed view of the shoulder to be seen to help create a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Shoulder arthroscopy uses tiny incisions, about half an inch big, making it a minimally invasive procedure compared to surgery and allowing for a less painful and shorter recovery time.
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
Patients prefer shoulder arthroscopy compared to other procedures because of the benefits it entails. Here are some key advantages to this procedure:
Minimally Invasive: The biggest advantage of shoulder arthroscopy is the minimally invasive approach. Instead of large incisions that can lead to further complications, smaller ones are made. This alone reduces the trauma to the shoulder, recovery times, and risks involved.
Recovery: Because of the less invasive approach, the recovery time is significantly shorter than traditional surgery. Most patients are able to go home the same day as the procedure and return to normal activities within a few weeks.
Less Risks: The risks involved with shoulder arthroscopy are minimal. There is a reduced likelihood of infection, less bleeding, and smaller scars.
Improved Pain Management: Most patients experience less post-operative pain after the procedure. This leads to a more comfortable recovery time and a reduction in chronic pain.
Common Conditions Treated with Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is used to treat a wide range of shoulder conditions like rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement syndrome, and more.
Rotator Cuff Tears:The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that work to stabilize the shoulder. Rotator cuff tears are extremely common and lead to shoulder pain and reduced mobility. Shoulder arthroscopy can be used to repair tendons and remove damaged tissue to restore the shoulder’s function and alleviate pain.
Labral Tears: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket and provides stability to the joint. Labral tears can lead to pain and instability. Shoulder arthroscopy is used for labral tears like SLAP lesions (superior labrum anterior-posterior) and Bankart lesions, which are common in athletes.
Impingement Syndrome: Impingement happens when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed or irritated when they pass through the acromion (shoulder bone). This leads to pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to remove damaged tissue or shave down the bone to help alleviate the pressure and pain associated with impingement syndrome.
Shoulder Instability: Shoulder instability occurs when the ball of the shoulder joint slips in and out of the socket. This can lead to pain and frequent “popping” of the shoulder. Shoulder arthroscopy is used to repair or tighten the ligaments to stabilize the shoulder joint and restore function.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint diseases cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the shoulder. Shoulder arthroscopy can not cure arthritis, but it can remove damaged cartilage, clean out the joint, and smooth rough surfaces to reduce pain and improve the function of the joint.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Frozen shoulder is a condition that leads to stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Shoulder arthroscopy is used as the next step after trying conservative treatments. The arthroscopy procedure allows the removal of scar tissue and the release of tight capsules around the shoulder joint, improving movement and discomfort.
The Process of Shoulder Arthroscopy
Prep and Anesthesia: Before your surgery can start, your surgeon will discuss anesthesia options and the preparation needed. In most cases, arthroscopy is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure. Regional anesthesia is also used to numb the shoulder area.
Incisions and Insertion: After anesthesia is given, the surgeon will make small incisions that allow the arthroscope to access the shoulder joint. The surgeon will then insert the arthroscope, which will provide high-quality images to help visualize the inside of the shoulder joint.
Diagnosing Stage: Once the arthroscope is inserted, the surgeon can examine the shoulder joint for signs of damage, such as tears, inflammation, or instability. This will lead to the surgeon’s creation of a diagnosis.
Treatment Stage: Once the problem is identified, the surgeon performs treatment through the other small incisions. Specialized instruments will be used depending on the condition:
Rotator Cuff Tear: Reattaching the tendons to the bones will be done using sutures or anchors.
Labral Tears: Repaired by stitching torn tissue or attaching it to the bone.
Bone Spurs/Impingement: The bone will be shaved down to relieve pressure on the tendons.
Typically speaking, shoulder arthroscopy is performed as an outpatient procedure lasting between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the treated condition. Once the procedure is completed, you will be in the postoperative care stage:
Postoperative Care: After the procedure, you will move to a recovery room for the anesthesia to wear off. Many patients experience mild discomfort or soreness that can be managed with pain medications if needed. Since arthroscopy is done in an outpatient setting, you will be able to go home the day of the procedure.
Book an Appointment at Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute!
JOI physicians continue to offer new patient appointments online for an easier and more convenient option. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your shoulder pain and treatment options available to you!
When needing knee replacement surgery, there are a few options to look into. There are total and partial, as well as robotic knee replacement surgery. Depending on your condition, needs, and medical advice, robotic knee replacement surgery may be the option for you. When diving into research on any surgery, it is crucial to understand the pros and cons and understand your condition to select the perfect fit. In recent years, there has been a rise in robotic knee replacement surgeries, but before learning about why, it is important to understand what robotic knee surgery is.
What is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?
A robotic knee replacement surgery is very similar to the traditional knee replacement, except it is performed with assistance from a robotic arm that allows an increase in precision and accuracy. The surgeon removes the damaged tissue in your knee and replaces it with an artificial joint with assistance from the robotic arm. The surgery is not performed solely by a robot and is used more as a tool by the performing surgeon. This advancement in technology allows greater accuracy and better balance in the soft tissues around your knee, especially if you are a more complex case.
The surgeon starts the surgery by making small incisions around the knee and inserts a camera into the knee joint, allowing the robotic arm to remove damaged bone and cartilage. A virtual model created from CT scans is another component used in the surgery to improve the level of accuracy.
There are three types of robotic systems used in robotic knee replacement surgery:
Computerized Tomography (CT) scan for mapping removal and implant placement.
Pros of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Increased Percision and Accuracy: Traditional methods, compared to the robotic surgery, offer a lower rate of accuracy when it comes to aligning the knee implant. The robot’s main part of the surgery is to assist the surgeon when aligning the implant to fit the patient. The increased accuracy this surgery provides will improve the overall function of the knee and create fewer problems down the road.
Personalization: By using imaging modalities like CT, the surgeon can create a personalized plan tailored to your specific anatomy. These scans will create a 3D model of the knee joint that is then used throughout the entire surgery by the robotic arm to promote accuracy.
Minimally Invasive: This surgery uses smaller incisions compared to the traditional route. This means the surgery, overall, is minimally invasive and will allow patients to experience less pain and fewer complications and lower the risk of infection. You will also experience a shorter stay at the hospital as well as less recovery time.
Long-Term Results: The precision associated with robotic knee replacement surgery leads to longer-lasting outcomes compared to other methods. The patient will experience improved mobility, reduced pain, and a better quality of life for a longer amount of time.
Human Error: The technological advancement creates a lower risk of human error in knee replacement surgeries. The robotic technology allows great accuracy along with the 3D scans that help map out your anatomy.
Cons of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Cost: The technology used in robotic knee surgery increases the overall cost of the procedure. While some insurance plans cover this type of surgery, it is not guaranteed and may need to be paid out of pocket.
Surgeons: Whenever there is any advancement in technology, people have to learn and work towards educating themselves on the new equipment. Surgeons also have to do this. With robotic knee replacement surgery, surgeons need to have specialized training to learn how to operate and use the robotic technology for successful results. Depending on the area, you may be limited to doctors who have not yet learned this type of technology.
Technical Malfunction: Like anything electronic, the robotic system can experience malfunctions. These incidents are rare but can happen. Surgeons are trained to adapt in case this happens during a surgery.
Availability: The equipment needed for robotic knee replacement surgery is not going to be found at every hospital; you may have to look outside of your area for a facility that carries the proper equipment. This is still a relatively new technology, so hospitals in more rural areas have less likelihood of obtaining the equipment.
Patients: Individuals with other medical conditions or abnormal anatomy may not be eligible for this surgery. Certain bone defects or obesity in patients make them not ideal for this procedure, and they may need to take the traditional route. It is always important to talk to your doctor to figure out the best option for you that will provide a successful outcome.
Ideal Candidates for Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
As mentioned before, this knee replacement surgery is not suitable for everyone. Here are some ideal situations for candidates wanting robotic knee replacement surgery:
Health: While this is a minimally invasive procedure, it is still seen as major and not taken lightly. If you are in generally good health and have no medical condition like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity, you have a higher chance of receiving the surgery. Individuals with health conditions have a higher risk of complications during surgery.
Complex Knee Conditions: With the 3D aspect of the robotic knee replacement surgery, individuals who have complex injuries or issues will have a higher chance of having a successful surgery. The 3D aspect allows the surgeon to see the patient’s knee joint and surrounding areas before surgery and will give a better idea of what to expect.
It is important to speak to your doctor about any underlying medical issues you may have to ensure you have a safe and successful surgery.
Book an Appointment Today with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
JOI physicians continue to offer new patient appointments online as convenient options for patients. To set up your appointment today for knee replacement surgery, schedule an appointment with one of our JOI physicians.
Adhesive capsulitis, more commonly known as a frozen shoulder, is a debilitating condition that occurs when the tissue in the shoulder joint thickens and tightens up, causing extreme pain and discomfort. In most cases, individuals do not know they have this condition until their range of motion is significantly limited and they experience pain. This condition has three individual stages. Several factors come into play when developing a frozen shoulder, like age, gender, activity, and underlying conditions. Understanding what adhesive capsulitis is and its main causes is essential while looking for prevention and treatment.
What is Adhesive Capsulitis?
Frozen Shoulder is a condition where the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder (the glenohumeral joint) stiffens due to the connective tissue thickening and tightening around the area. Normally, this condition develops over time, starting with mild pain and progressing to extreme pain and a significant loss of mobility in the shoulder, almost making it immobile. There are three phases: the freezing phase, the frozen phase, and the thawing phase. Knowing what phase you are at with a frozen shoulder can help you find the best treatment.
Freezing Phase: In this stage, you will notice a reduction in shoulder range of motion and gradual aching of the shoulder.
Frozen Phase: During the second stage, inflammation declines and is replaced by stiffness as the scar tissues form around the shoulder joint.
Thawing Phase: In the third and final stage, inflammation continues to decrease, and the scar tissues are slowly resolving, resulting in gradual improvements in the range of motion in the shoulder.
Detecting adhesive capsulitis and intervening is crucial when experiencing this condition. The symptoms of a frozen shoulder can worsen over time, especially if left untreated. Seek professional help as soon as you become aware of the symptoms, such as shoulder pain, reduced range of motion, and stiffness. By seeking professional help early on, you may have a better outcome and faster recovery than those who wait.
Main Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Gender and Age: Adhesive capsulitis is more prominent in people over 40 years of age, more specifically in women. Menopause hormonal changes and imbalances are linked to the cause of a frozen shoulder. This is because, during menopause, women experience a decrease in muscle tone due to falling estrogen levels. To create a balance, it is important to focus on muscle toning by incorporating daily exercises.
Diabetes: One of the biggest risk factors associated with a frozen shoulder is diabetes. People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder for a few reasons. Elevated blood glucose levels can lead to an accumulation of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) in the shoulder joint tissues, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and weakness. Another reason diabetics are predisposed to frozen shoulder is because glucose molecules attach to the lining of the shoulder, causing stiffness and pain in the area.
Shoulder Trauma and Surgeries: After an injury occurs, you may find yourself using your shoulder less. This can be problematic since a frozen shoulder often happens when the shoulder is not being used regularly. Like with injuries, after surgery, you may want to withhold from using your shoulder, which is why doctors are known to advocate for shoulder movement after surgery. Without keeping your shoulder mobile, you are creating a higher risk of developing a frozen shoulder.
Inactivity: When the shoulder is not being moved regularly, the connective tissues surrounding the joint become thicker, leading to the discomfort and pain associated with adhesive capsulitis. Long periods of inactivity, especially after surgery, may cause an increase in inflammation and tightness.
Prevention and Treatments For Adhesive Capsulitis
Preventative Tips
Exercising:Regular exercise is one of the main ways to prevent a frozen shoulder and promote shoulder health. Engaging in specific exercises that target the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles will promote flexibility and strengthen the muscles. Stretching exercises can help improve the range of motion of the shoulder joint, whereas exercises can help build up strength in the shoulder muscles.
Taking Breaks: While one of the main ways of preventing a frozen shoulder is by regularly engaging the shoulder muscles, overuse can cause injury. Be sure to take regular breaks when doing exercises or stretches to prevent injury and overuse.
Proper Posture: Practicing proper posture and good ergonomics is essential for shoulder health and preventing adhesive capsulitis. Poor posture often leads to muscle imbalances and puts extra strain on the shoulder joint. To maintain good posture, be sure to sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed, avoid slouching, keep your head aligned with your spine, and use ergonomic chairs and desks, especially if you have an office job.
Treatments:
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is a less invasive option that can significantly help reduce the pain and limited range of motion when treating a frozen shoulder. A physical therapist will create a personalized stretch and exercise routine while guiding and working with you when treating a frozen shoulder.
Corticosteroid Injections: A corticosteroid injection is a minimally invasive and quick procedure. While the injection provides temporary relief, it can improve shoulder mobility over time if followed through.
Joint Distension: Joint distension is when fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to help stretch the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint. This improves comfort and range of motion in patients.
Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): A MUA is a surgical procedure where the surgeon manipulates the shoulder joint to break up adhesions while the patient is under anesthesia. This is typically followed by physical therapy.
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
Are you experiencing extreme shoulder pain and discomfort, along with a decreased range of motion? You may be in the first stage of adhesive capsulitis. Seek professional help for the prevention and treatment of a frozen shoulder to improve your quality of life.
JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is a convenient option for new patients looking for high-quality care. Contact JOI today to start your online new patient appointment.
Experiencing hip pain can be a debilitating feeling. Your hips bear most of your weight when walking or running, and when you experience discomfort in them, it can impact your daily activities and lifestyle. There are several different reasons why you may be experiencing hip pain or discomfort, like having a degenerative disease, a past injury, or an off-balance stride. While there are several different treatments available for hip pain, some often overlook how you can adjust the way you walk. Adjusting your stride can be the first step in alleviating hip pain or discomfort. While it may not be a cure, it can improve comfort and promote mobility.
How Hip Pain is Connected to Your Stride?
Your stride, or the way you walk, can cause chronic hip pain if done incorrectly. Stride includes several different factors of walking and running, like the length of your steps, your body’s posture, and the force you allow when taking steps. Having an unbalanced stride can lead to extreme discomfort or pain. Making simple adjustments can help with hip pain relief.
Your hips tend to bear most of the body’s weight when walking or running. If your stride is uneven, off-balanced, too long, or too short, it can place an unnecessary amount of stress on the joints and muscles of the hip. Adjusting your foot alignment, stride length, and posture are a few ways you can improve your stride in promoting hip pain relief.
Stride Adjustments: Providing Hip Pain Relief
Knowing the adjustments you can make to your stride will improve your hip health and overall mobility. A well-balanced stride and gait will allow the distribution of force and stress evenly across the joints and muscles. When your stride becomes altered due to an injury, disease, or discomfort, you will be more prone to experiencing chronic hip pain or worsening the condition you may already have. Most people tend to put more weight on the hip that is not hurting in hopes of reducing their pain. This can actually cause more discomfort. Here are a few adjustments you can make when fixing your stride and gait to improve mobility and comfort.
1. Foot Alignment
Having correct foot alignment while you walk is one of the first steps in improving your stride. Make sure your feet land in a neutral position while your toes are pointing forward. Consider purchasing insoles for your shoes if you notice discomfort when adjusting your foot alignment. Having a wider stance when walking can also improve your stride and reduce hip pain and discomfort. This will engage different muscle groups and reduce pressure on your hips.
2. Shortening Your Stride
Focus on taking shorter, more controlled steps rather than longer steps and having an overstride. Shorter steps will allow your foot to land closer to your body, reducing the impact of weight on your hips, and minimizing joint pain.
3. Pelvic Tilt and Hip Rotation
Most people walk with a pelvic tilt, creating an imbalance leading to strain on the hip muscles and ligaments. Along with pelvic tilt, many individuals have some hip rotation. Excessive or inadequate hip rotation can place strain on the muscles and joints. A lack of rotation can lead to stiffness, while over-rotation can cause instability and pain. Adjusting your pelvic tilt and your hip rotation to be neutral rather than forward or backward will allow a form of hip pain relief.
4. Engaging Your Core and Glutes
Engaging your core and glutes while walking will help stabilize the hips. A strong core helps support your pelvis, reducing the strain on your hip joints. To engage your core, focus on maintaining slight tension in your abdominal muscles as you walk, and engage your glutes to continue reducing the stress on your hips and promoting proper hip function.
5. Maintaining an Upright Posture
Good posture is essential when adjusting your stride. Keeping your head up, shoulders back, and spine straight while you walk or run will help take off any unnecessary pressure on your hips and lower back. A strong, upright posture will allow for more efficient movement and alleviate discomfort.
6. Taking Breaks
When walking for extended periods of time, you should allow yourself time to rest and take a break to prevent fatigue and overuse. Long periods of repetitive movements can make hip pain worse, so try giving yourself time to rest and recover.
Understanding Hip Pain and Its Causes
The joint of the hip is called a ball-and-socket joint. This joint supports the body’s weight while allowing a wide range of motion. The hip joint is considered to be the largest and most important joint in the body, allowing for movements like walking or running. Although it may be one of the most important joints, the hip joint is vulnerable to conditions that can lead to discomfort. Here are some common causes of hip pain:
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes cartilage in the hip joint to wear down. This can not only result in pain and discomfort but also in stiffness and reduced mobility.
Bursitis: When the bursa, a fluid-filled sac cushioning the hip joint, is inflamed, pain and discomfort in the side of the hip are commonly experienced.
Tendinitis: When the tendon is strained or overused, you may experience tendinitis, which leads to severe discomfort or pain.
Injuries: Injuries to the hip can also cause chronic hip pain.
While many of these conditions require medical treatment or physical therapy, adjusting your stride can significantly reduce strain on your hip joint and help you find hip pain relief. Before looking into physical therapy, medical treatments, or surgery, try adjusting your stride first so you can alleviate discomfort quickly.
Book an Appointment With Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
At JOI, you can easily schedule a new patient appointment through our website. Connect with a physician who specializes in hip pain relief to help address your discomfort and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to book a consultation and discover the range of services we offer to alleviate hip pain.
Shoulder pain can be an extremely debilitating condition, particularly because the shoulder plays a crucial role in everyday activities for almost all individuals. Activities like throwing a ball, working out, and lifting a child all require movement from the shoulder. The shoulder is essential even for small day-to-day tasks like reaching on a shelf. While the shoulder is essential for daily activities, shoulder injuries are extremely common, like strains, sprains, and torn tendons and ligaments. In most cases, less invasive treatments like physical therapy, medications, rest, and injections provide the necessary relief. But there are times when shoulder surgery may be the only viable option.
Understanding Shoulder Anatomy
Shoulder anatomy is composed of several different things, like joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. The shoulder joint is called a ball-and-socket joint, meaning the upper arm fits into a socket in the shoulder blade. This joint is a mobile joint that allows for a wide range of motion, making it possible to throw, lift, and rotate our shoulders. The rotator cuff plays a crucial role in stabilizing the shoulder. It consists of a group of four muscles and their connecting tendons.
The shoulder and rotator cuff are especially vulnerable to injury and wear and tear that can lead to a significant amount of pain and reduced range of motion. When injured or torn, you may start looking for treatment options or even surgery.
When to Consider Shoulder Surgery?
Most shoulder injuries can be treated with noninvasive procedures or methods like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and injections. While this is true, there are several reasons why shoulder surgery may be needed. Depending on the pain level, the reduction in mobility, and stability, you may need to think about shoulder surgery. Here are a few examples of when shoulder surgery may be necessary:
1. Chronic Pain
When experiencing chronic shoulder pain, it is important you try noninvasive procedures or methods first, like physical therapy, injections, or medications. After a while, if the pain persists or grows, you may need to look into the surgical route. Sometimes the underlying cause of the pain needs to be treated with surgery rather than a conservative treatment.
An example of this would be a rotator cuff tear. Sometimes people may experience a tear that won’t heal on its own with physical therapy or medication. If you have tried these treatments and there are no signs of improvement, it may be time to consider shoulder surgery.
2. Severe Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff plays a huge role in the mobility of our shoulders and consists of muscles and tendons that help stabilize the joint. A rotator cuff tear can occur from an injury or even develop over time from repetitive motions. In severe cases, the tendon is completely torn, causing an extreme reduction in mobility. If a rotator cuff tear is large or the tendon has retracted and cannot be repaired, shoulder surgery may be necessary.
3. Loss of Mobility and Range of Motion
If you experience a sudden loss of your range of motion, this could be an indication that surgery is needed. Being unable to lift your arm, reach overhead, or perform everyday activities due to shoulder stiffness or weakness may signal an underlying issue.
Some conditions like adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and reduced range of motion. Some severe cases may require surgery to restore mobility and function if conservative treatments don’t alleviate the pain.
4. Shoulder Instability or Dislocations
Shoulder dislocations occur when the ball of the upper arm is pulled out of the socket and mainly occur from trauma or sports-related injury. Frequent shoulder dislocations can lead to shoulder instability and may indicate the need for surgery. After being dislocated several times, the ligaments and tendons of the shoulder may need to be repaired to restore the joint.
5. Fractures
Shoulder fractures are common, particularly in older adults and athletes. Fractures of the humerus, scapula, or clavicle can cause significant pain, swelling, and bruising, and in severe cases, the bone fragments may need to be realigned and secured.
Shoulder fractures are often common in elders or athletes and can cause a significant amount of pain, especially if the humerus, scapula, or clavicle is damaged. These fractures can cause swelling and bruising, and in severe cases, bone fragments may need to be realigned through surgery.
6. Arthritis and Degenerative Conditions
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of function. In advanced cases of shoulder arthritis, non-surgical treatments may offer temporary relief. When the arthritis becomes severe and the joint is no longer able to function properly, surgery may need to be considered.
Types of Shoulder Surgeries
Depending on the condition or injury, there are several shoulder surgeries you may need to consider; here are a few:
Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive surgery that involves small incisions and the use of a camera (arthroscope) to guide the surgeon in repairing or removing damaged tissue. It is commonly used for rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and shoulder impingement.
Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty): In cases of advanced arthritis or joint degeneration, shoulder replacement surgery may be necessary.
Labral Repair or Reconstruction: This surgery is used to treat tears in the labrum, which is the cartilage that helps stabilize the shoulder joint. It may be necessary for individuals with shoulder instability or dislocations.
Fracture Repair: For displaced fractures, surgery may involve the use of plates, screws, or rods to align and stabilize the bones during the healing process.
Rotator Cuff Repair: This surgery is performed to repair tears in the rotator cuff tendons. It may involve stitching the tendon back together or reattaching it to the bone.
Book an Appointment with Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
Are you dealing with shoulder pain or discomfort? At JOI, our specialized shoulder physicians are dedicated to helping you regain mobility and get back to your daily activities. Book a new patient appointment today through our website!
Shoulder pain can be a major hindrance in everyday life, affecting your ability to perform routine tasks like reaching for something on a shelf, lifting objects, or even getting a good night’s sleep. Whether it’s from poor posture, overuse, or an underlying condition, shoulder pain can be a persistent issue that limits your mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, there are simple, effective habits you can adopt to help with shoulder pain relief and improve your overall shoulder health.
By incorporating these four easy-to-follow habits in your everyday life, you can experience shoulder pain relief and prevent future discomfort.
1. Practice Proper Posture Throughout the Day
One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is poor posture. Slouching, rounded shoulders, or improper alignment while sitting or standing can put unnecessary strain on the shoulder joints, muscles, and ligaments. Over time, this leads to muscle imbalances and increases the risk of injury.
To improve your posture and experience shoulder pain relief, focus on these tips:
Sit With a Straight Back: When sitting at a desk or in a chair, make sure your spine is aligned, and your shoulders are pulled back. Avoid hunching forward or slumping, as this can exacerbate tension in the shoulders.
Adjust your Workstation: Your desk, chair, and computer monitor should be at eye level. If your monitor is too low or high, you may strain your shoulders while looking up or down for extended periods. By making sure your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when typing, you will have an easier time experiencing shoulder pain relief.
Stand Tall: When standing, keep your weight evenly distributed across both feet and avoid shifting your weight to one side.
Regular Breaks: If you’re sitting for long periods, make it a habit to stand up, stretch, and walk around for a few minutes every hour. This helps reduce muscle stiffness and tension in the shoulder area.
By being mindful of your posture and making simple adjustments, you can reduce the strain on your shoulders and aid your journey to finding shoulder pain relief.
2. Incorporate Regular Stretching and Mobility Exercises
Keeping your shoulder muscles flexible and mobile is essential for reducing shoulder pain and improving your range of motion. Regular stretching and mobility exercises can help alleviate tension, reduce stiffness, and increase blood flow to the area, which speeds up recovery.
Here are a few effective stretch exercises for your shoulders:
Doorway Stretch: This is a great stretch to open up the chest and relieve tension in the front of the shoulder. Stand in a doorway with your forearms resting against the door frame. Step forward with one foot, gently stretching your chest and shoulders. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
Shoulder Rolls: Shoulder rolls help improve shoulder mobility and release built-up tension, aiding in reducing shoulder pain. Sit or stand with a tall posture, then slowly roll your shoulders forward in a circular motion for 10-15 repetitions. Afterward, reverse the direction and roll them backward for another 10-15 repetitions.
Pendulum Swings: This is a gentle movement that can help reduce stiffness in the shoulder joint. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, then lean forward slightly allowing your arm to hang down. Gently swing your arm in small circles gradually increasing the size of the circle. Perform this for 30 seconds to a minute on each arm.
Cross-body Stretch: This stretch targets the back of the shoulder and upper back. Extend one arm straight in front of you, then bring it across your chest, using your opposite hand to gently pull your arm closer to your body. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides.
Incorporating these stretches into your daily routine can help alleviate shoulder pain, keep your shoulders flexible, and reduce tension.
3. Strengthen the Muscles Around the Shoulder Joint
While stretching helps improve flexibility, strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint is just as important when finding shoulder pain relief. Weak muscles around the shoulder can lead to poor stability, increasing the risk of injury and pain. Strengthening exercises help to provide better support for the joint, reducing strain, and improving overall function.
External Rotations with Resistance Band: This exercise targets the rotator cuff muscles, which are crucial for shoulder stability. Attach a resistance band to a stable object at shoulder height. Stand with your side to the band, holding the band in the hand closest to it. Keep your elbow bent at 90 degrees and close to your body. Slowly rotate your forearm outward, away from your body, and then return to the starting position. Perform 10-15 repetitions on each arm.
Overhead Press: The overhead press is a classic exercise that targets the deltoid muscles and helps improve shoulder strength. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height, then press it overhead until your arms are fully extended. Lower the dumbbells back down to shoulder height and repeat.
4. Apply Heat or Cold Therapy for Pain Relief
For shoulder pain, heat and cold therapy can provide immediate relief and help manage inflammation. Both therapies are effective, depending on the type of pain you’re experiencing.
Cold Therapy: Cold therapy is typically used to reduce inflammation and numb the area after an injury. Apply an ice pack or cold compress to the area for 15-20 minutes. This will help reduce swelling and provide shoulder pain relief.
Heat Therapy: Heat therapy is great for relaxing tense muscles and improving blood flow. Apply a warm compress to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes. Heat helps soothe stiff muscles, improve flexibility, and promote healing.
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
If you’re struggling with shoulder pain and seeking relief, our expert orthopaedic shoulder specialists at JOI are here to help! Take the first step towards a pain-free life by booking an appointment today. Let us guide you on the path to recovery and better mobility.
Shoulder pain is a common complaint, affecting individuals of all ages and lifestyles. The shoulder is a complex joint with a wide range of motion, making it susceptible to injury. Two of the most common causes of shoulder pain are tendinitis and bursitis. While these conditions may share similar symptoms and both involve inflammation, they are distinct issues with different causes, treatments, and recovery timelines. Understanding the differences between tendinitis and bursitis is key to proper diagnosis and treatment, allowing for a more effective path to recovery.
What is Tendinitis?
Tendinitis is an inflammation of a tendon, the thick fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone. Tendinitis in the shoulder most commonly affects the tendons of the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. These tendons are essential for overhead movements, such as lifting, reaching, or throwing.
When a tendon becomes overused, injured, or subjected to repetitive motion, it can become inflamed, leading to tendinitis. Tendinitis can also occur due to age-related wear and tear as tendons lose flexibility and elasticity over time. This condition is often the result of repetitive motions, poor posture, or improper techniques during physical activities, especially sports or jobs that require heavy lifting.
Common causes of shoulder tendinitis include:
Repetitive overhead movements or activities (e.g., throwing, lifting, swimming)
Poor posture that puts strain on the shoulder
Direct trauma or injury to the shoulder
Aging, which causes wear and tear on tendons
What is Bursitis?
Bursitis refers to the inflammation of a bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac that provides cushioning and reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles around a joint. In the shoulder, the bursa that is most commonly affected is the subacromial bursa, which lies between the rotator cuff tendons and the acromion (a part of the scapula). The subacromial bursa helps the tendons glide smoothly as the shoulder moves.
Bursitis is also often caused by overuse, repetitive motion, or trauma. However, it can also be triggered by infection, gout, or certain systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. When the bursa becomes inflamed, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the shoulder.
Common causes of shoulder bursitis include:
Repetitive overhead movements or activities: (e.g., throwing, lifting, swimming)
Direct injury to the shoulder area
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can affect bursa sacs
Prolonged pressure on the shoulder, such as resting on the elbow for extended periods
How Do Tendinitis and Bursitis Affect the Shoulder?
Both tendinitis and bursitis can lead to significant shoulder pain, but they affect the shoulder in different ways.
Tendinitis: This condition primarily affects the tendons of the rotator cuff, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm. The pain is often worse with overhead motions or when reaching behind the back. In some cases, the pain may also worsen at night, especially if the shoulder is placed in a position that puts pressure on the affected tendon. Over time, tendinitis can lead to tendon degeneration and tears if not treated properly.
Bursitis: This condition affects the bursa, causing pain and swelling in the area around the shoulder joint. This pain is often sharp and can radiate along the upper arm. Bursitis may cause discomfort even with minimal movement, and you may experience pain when lying on the affected side. Unlike tendinitis, bursitis is more likely to cause pain with direct pressure on the shoulder, such as when resting on the elbow or sleeping on that side.
Prevention techniques for these conditions are very similar. Make sure you practice proper posture, warm up before workouts/activities, avoid repetitive movement, and practice shoulder strengthening exercises.
Key Differences Between Tendinitis and Bursitis
While these conditions share some similarities in their symptoms, there are distinct differences between the two. Here are the key ways in which tendinitis and bursitis differ:
Location of Pain:
Tendinitis: The pain is often localized to the tendon itself, typically around the shoulder joint, and can radiate down the arm. It tends to get worse with specific movements, such as lifting the arm overhead.
Bursitis: The pain is often located around the outer shoulder, especially near the point of the shoulder, and can radiate along the upper arm. It may worsen with pressure or when the shoulder is at rest.
Cause of Inflammation
Tendinitis: Inflammation occurs within the tendon, which can become irritated due to repetitive motion, overuse, or injury. Tendinitis may also result from aging or biomechanical issues that strain the tendons.
Bursitis: Inflammation affects the bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac that cushions the tendons and bones in the shoulder. Bursitis is often caused by overuse, injury, or systemic conditions like arthritis.
Range of Motion
Tendinitis: This condition can lead to a limited range of motion, particularly with movements involving lifting or reaching overhead. The pain may restrict arm movements due to the tenderness of the inflamed tendon.
Bursitis: This condition can also lead to a decreased range of motion, especially with arm movement or when pressure is applied to the shoulder. The pain may be more constant, even with minor movements.
Treatment
Tendinitis: Treatment typically involves rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and improve flexibility. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.
Bursitis: This condition is often treated with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy can also be helpful in addressing any underlying muscle imbalances. If bursitis is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be required. In some cases, fluid may be aspirated from the bursa to relieve pressure and reduce inflammation.
Diagnosing These Conditions: Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute
Both conditions are diagnosed based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. During the physical exam, the doctor will assess the range of motion and test for tenderness or swelling around the shoulder. JOI has several physicians who specialize in shoulder injuries and conditions. Contact JOI today to set up an appointment with a shoulder specialist.
Did you know? JOI may be the official medical provider for the Jags, but sometimes we have the opportunity to extend our care and services to visiting teams as well! At last night’s Gator Bowl, Dr. Smith and Dr. Von Thron were on the sidelines with MA Macy and ATCs Amber and Ben providing on the field care to both Duke and Ole Miss! We are so proud of our team and honored to have been a part of the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl 2025!
JOI is “Where the Pros Go” … even if the pros are just passing through!
