Knee Pain Treatment

What're the benefits of a partial knee replacement? There are various research studies available that support what sort of contemporary partial knee replacement performs beautifully for a vast majority of individuals. There are various advantages to having a partial alternative versus a complete replacement of the knee. Included in these are a faster recovery time, less loss of blood throughout the procedure, and less pain after operation. Many report a partial knee replacement feels more Natural when compared to a total replacement as well as the movement range is often described as Better. The orthopedic specialist might advocate this procedure if you've severe arthritis of the knee and have attempted and failed with nonsurgical treatment measures.

A partial knee replacement is only considered in the event the knee troubles affect your standard of living and interfere with your daily routine. Your arthritis must be restricted to a compartment of the knee, not the whole knee as seen with inflammatory arthritis. Those individuals with substantial knee stiffness or ligament injury are not perfect candidates. Your orthopedic specialist, working carefully with your nearest and dearest doctor, will determine which kind of procedure you need. He might test your motion range, the ligament quality, and evaluate your activity status. Patients who've pain located completely on either the inside part or outside part of the knee are good applicants for a partial knee replacement.

Those that have pain during the whole knee or right in front aspect are generally better qualified for a complete knee replacement. You can also have additional imaging tests on your knee to determine which operation suits you best. The choice depends on your surgeon's preference along with your health needs. A partial knee replacement usually lasts one or two hours. The orthopedic surgeon makes an incision at the front of your knee so as to explore the 3 compartments of the joint space. He runs on the special saw to remove the damaged cartilage along with knee elements along with caps the ends of the femur along with tibia with metal coverings.

These metal pieces are connected to the bone with a special kind of cement. To create a smooth gliding surface, the physician places a plastic insert between both of these metal components. You'll be taken to a healing room and carefully monitored. Expect to also have an IV for around twenty four hours to receive medications for pain control and antibiotics. Once you're awake, you'll notice a bandage on your knee along with a little drainage that collects fluid from the joint space.

Treatment For Asthma

Numerous reasons that are not completely comprehended, the prevalence of the is on the rise globally. At the UK alone there are over 3 million sufferers. Typically, asthma is a situation where it becomes hard to breathe, with the severity which range from a slightly annoying trouble in catching one breath to a significant life threatening inability to respire at all. These episodes of difficulty breathing may be alleviated with drugs, but exercise and diet are believed to be crucial tools in asthma treatment helping to control the consistency and intensity of asthma episodes.

Just what exactly happens during an asthma attack? Generally an asthma attack involves 3 major physiological changes. One can be bronchospasms, where irritants have caused contraction of the lung muscles, thus narrowing the airways. The interior of the lungs may become inflamed and puffy you might say that further reduces air flow. This might result in the secretion of mucous which serves to only worsen the state. When all 3 of those factors are in play, a complete blown asthma attack is underway. The target afterward for an asthma sufferer is to reduce the probability of an asthma attack happening, which may be done with the help of asthma treatment medication, diet and exercise.

What causes asthma are believed to be both external and internal. The external causes may be common allergens like pollen or dust, although emotional factors like excessive stress can occasionally come into play. Internal asthma, which is usually more serious, often develops later in life and doesn't respond well to asthma treatment. It's not caused by external allergens, but instead may be due to exercise, infections, stress and substances within the environment. Consequently it's essential for asthmatics to be tested for what they might be allergic to also to avoid getting into contact with these materials just as much as possible. Among the best ways to handle pressure is thru exercising, but a lot of asthmatics incorrectly believe that exercise will increase the chance of an asthma attack. That's perhaps understandable, since we usually associate difficulty breathing with physical exercise.

Physical Health Checkup

Like many individuals, you may schedule an annual checkup or Yearly physical with your doctor. It typically includes a health history, physical examination and tests. It's significant to have a regular physician who helps ensure you receive the healthcare that's best for the personal needs. Healthy people frequently do not need annual physicals, plus they can even do more bad than good. Annual physicals usually do not make you healthier. To your physical, your doctor might order tests, like blood and urine tests, or an electrocardiogram. These tests are ordered for healthful individuals who've no risk factors. There have been numerous studies of the effects of those annual checkups.

Typically, they likely is not going to help you stay well and live more. Usually they do not help you to avoid hospital stays or maintain you from dying of cancer or heart issues. A lot of people should only possess a test or screening if they've symptoms or risks factors. These false alarms may cause nervousness, and pointless follow-up tests and treatments. A false positive blood examination may result in a biopsy. An EKG that's not interpreted correctly might lead to another test that is exposed to radiation. Or you may get a procedure with a risk of myocardial infarction or death in two individuals for every 100 who get the evaluation.

The U.S. Healthcare system spends $300 million per year on scoreless tests which are ordered in annual physicals. Billions more are spent on follow-up tests and treatments. Will advise you when to get follow-up and preventative care. Usually your doctor provides several types of care in one visit. You may get an influenza shot when the physician sees you to check how your new blood pressure level medication is working. In case your physician wants to schedule a yearly physical, you may ask when it is vital. Or ask when you can wait until you've a problem or are due to get an evaluation.

For lifestyle problems like family planning, STD prevention and healthful eating, particularly if you're a young adult. For a number of reasons which are based on your individual needs. It's also important to see a physician if you have not had healthcare in a very long time. It's best to have a reliable physician you see regularly. Having a regular physician helps you get preventative care. Everybody should get the recommended vaccinations and screening tests, like those listed in the box at right.

Back Pain Treatments

Piriformis pain is just the pain due to Piriformis Syndrome that is evident in around 10 to 15% of hip as well as low back pain patients. Unlike nerve impingement problems like sciatica, stenosed spinal foramen and channel, and spinal problems such as scoliosis, lordosis, as well as kyphosis, Piriformis Syndrome is a neuromuscular illness. Generally, the sciatic nerve must pass beneath the piriformis muscle though for many low back pain sufferers, it goes directly throughout the muscle that brings about pain when the muscle agreements and suffocates the nerve. The problem might be further irritated when sitting for prolonged time periods since the gluteal muscles stay inactive.

Flexion of the hips leads to hyperactivity in the psoas major, iliacus as well as rectus femoris muscles in the cost of the gluteals, such as the gluteus minimus as well as the obturator internus. As perhaps a result of this, the hamstrings, adductor magnus, as well as the piriformis, that are the synergist muscles of the gluteals, may have to execute a lot harder that they should not. This disease mechanism causes the piriformis to hypertrophy leading to pain. Known by severe pain in the gluteal, piriformis pain might expand down to the leg. Specific exercises like running, walking, cycling, and rowing might lead to pain.

If pain is reduced by walking with the base of the afflicted side directed out as well as if pain is experienced when sitting within an awkward positioning, Piriformis Syndrome should be assumed. Piriformis pain is recognized clinically by lengthening the irritated piriformis muscle as well as causing sciatic nerve pressure through physical examination procedures such as the Race and Freiberg maneuvers. Imaging procedures are only used to exclude other disorders, like herniated disks, spinal stenosis, facet arthropathy, as well as lumbar muscle strain. The MRN or the Magnetic Resonance Neurography is just the only imaging technique that may discover Piriformis Syndrome.

The clear presence of the inflammed sciatic nerve where it passes throughout the muscle might be visualized. There are clearly, numerous conventional treatments which are shown helpful in relieving piriformis pain. NSAIDs and\/or muscle relaxants Stretches and other gentle workout routines Therapeutic massage Cold compresses at the onset of pain followed afterwards by hot compresses Osteopathic and chiropractic manipulation. Shots of anti inflammatory drugs and\/or steroids, local anesthetics, botulinum toxin, or a combination of the three can be provided if conventional treatments are unsuccessful. Even though surgery is rarely suggested, the most recent procedures of minimally invasive surgery have now been proven effective in freeing the entrapped sciatic nerve from the piriformis muscle. Every one of those procedures assists in relieving piriformis pain. Among hip and low back pain sufferers, around 10 to 15% experience performs pain.

Visiting A Gynecologist

If you have never been to the gynecologist physician before, thinking about your first appointment might make you nervous. She or he'll be looking after your most private healthcare needs, and you'll probably have to discuss personal issues at your appointments. In order to select the best supplier for the female health care needs, you will find several crucial concerns that you must ask at your first visit. By learning the responses to these questions, you may chart the path of your future health care and open the lines of communication.

Should I Be Tested for STDs? Most doctors wish that girls were more open about it problem. Some illnesses may lay dormant for many years, then appear and cause major health problems. Be sure to ask your physician about taking these tests at the first appointment. If you're experiencing irregular periods, it might be normal; however it may also be the indication of the significant health problem. A gynecologist doctor can assess you, perform an examination, and allow you to know of any underlying health issues that might be contributing to your irregular cycles. In case your current way of birth control is uncomfortable, uncomfortable, or unwieldy, it is likely that you will not use it the means that you should.

For constant birth control, consult your gynecologist doctor about a birth control technique that suits your current lifestyle. Regardless if you select a barrier method, a hormonal method, and implant, or an IUD, you'll want your physicians input. She or he may advise you as to the best possible contraceptive way of your individual condition. Whenever you visit this kind of doctor, it is extremely essential that you've the self-confidence to speak up and ask any questions that you've. By taking a serious interest in your reproductive health, you could work with your care provider to select the choices that work best for you, regardless of the stage of living you are currently in. Your gynecologist physician cannot help you with health problems, fertility, or other female problems unless you are open about them.

Causes & Treatments of Sore Throats

During Fall in San Antonio, we may not see a significant change in the weather but that doesn’t stop us from having a reason to visit an urgent care. Sore throats are common no matter where you live. Although they are not a serious risk to your overall health, you should not ignore them. Sore throats are often a symptom of another larger issue.

COLDS

The common cold often begins with a sore throat. Other symptoms include runny nose, congestion, and cough. The cold lasts a few days. If it persists for over a week, there may be a bacterial infection. You will need to visit an urgent care to get antibiotics.

FLU

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. It happens most often in the winter and early spring. The flu and colds do share some common symptoms. However, flu symptoms also include high fever, body aches, fatigue, and weakness. Flus can also become life threatening if they develop conditions like pneumonia. If you have early symptoms of the flu or suspect you may have the flu, it’s important to get to an urgent care immediately. Antiviral medications are available but you need to take them soon after becoming sick to see an affect.

ALLERGIES

Allergies impact everyone slightly differently. Sore throats are not uncommon. Normally, the glands in your nose and throat produce mucus to keep your upper respiratory tract moist. This mucus protects you from infection. When everything is functioning normally, you swallow this fluid without a thought. However, when your body encounters an allergen, it produces far too much mucus. These excessive excretions can cause a runny nose. However, in other cases, the extra mucus will drain down the throat. This is called postnasal drip. Tickling, coughing and soreness are all symptoms of postnasal drips.

MONONUCLEOSIS

Mononucleosis, also known as mono, is a usually minor illness caused by a virus. The incubation period is four to six weeks. Symptoms include:

·         Fatigue

·         Sore throat that does not respond to antibiotics

·         Fever

·         Swollen lymph nodes

·         Swollen tonsils

·         Headache

·         Skin rash

·         Swollen spleen

Fever and sore throat tend to improve after a couple weeks. However, other symptoms, like fatigue and enlarged lymph nodes, may take longer.

SMOKING

Smoking tobacco causes a long list of problems over time. Some of the symptoms can include:

·         Shortness of breath

·         Chest pain

·         Difficulty swallowing

·         Persistent hoarseness

·         Bloody urination

·         Persistent cough

·         Coughing up blood

·         Difficulty speaking

·         Sudden weakness in one side of the body or face

·         Persistent abdominal pain

·         Unexplained weight loss

·         Frequent colds

·         Frequent upper respiratory infections

STREP THROAT

Strep is short for streptococcus. It is a bacterium that comes in two types: A and B. Group A causes sore throats, scarlet fever, impetigo, toxic shock syndrome, cellulitis and necrotizing fasciitis. Group B causes blood infections, pneumonia, and meningitis in newborn children. Adults, especially the elderly, can also get Group B infections. Strep B causes urinary tract infections, blood infections, skin infections, and pneumonia.

TONSILLITIS

Tonsillitis is an infection in the tonsils. It can be caused by a virus or a bacterial infection. Symptoms include:

·         Sore throat

·         Difficulty swallowing

·         Bad breath

·         Earaches

·         Stomachache

·         Stiff neck

·         Jaw and neck tenderness

·         Swollen tonsils

·         White or yellow spots on the tonsils

If you have a fever over 103F or a sore throat that doesn’t go away after two days, then you need to go to an urgent care for help. Depending on how serious your conditions is, you may need antibiotics or surgery. Removing the tonsils is called a tonsillectomy.

Breast enlargement through the years

1.       In 2010, one and a half million women had undergone breast enlargement procedure, making it the most sought after cosmetic procedure. This procedure has been popular as it is a fix to make breasts bigger in size, to enhance the tautness and feel of the breasts and enhance the shape of the breasts.

2.       The earliest breast enhancement was performed in 1895 by Vincenz Czerny, a German surgeon specialising in oncological and gynaecological surgery. Instead of implants he used autologous adipose tissue also, called fat tissue to replace the patient's lipoma or a benign tumour in one of the breasts. Essentially, this breast procedure was not for enlargement purposes at all but to redeem the size of the breasts after a damaging surgery

3.       Robert Gersuny, an Austrian surgeon, and obstetrician, experimented to enhance the size of breasts with the help of paraffin injections that lead to a disastrous result. Paraffin is primarily made up of petroleum jelly and was discovered to be useful in the enlargement of body parts by Robert Gersuny. He had firstly used paraffin on soldiers’ testicles in order to increase the size and succeeded. He, later, went on to use it in the form of injections to increase the size breasts. His formula consisted of one part Vaseline and three parts olive oil and could go on hassle- free for several years but, then it would most definitely lead to a lot of health problems. The paraffin could form impenetrable lumps or huge ulcers and they could also cause blindness. Complete breast amputation could only save their lives.

4.       From the advent of the twentieth century, especially between the periods of the first and the Second World War, doctors and surgeons had begun exploring many different kinds of options to enhance breasts. Some of these fillers are- ivory, soybean, glass balls, lanolin, peanut oil, polyethylene chips, mineral oil, ground rubber, beeswax, ox cartilage, goat's milk, Terylene wool, Dicora, teflon, gutta-percha, Ivalon (polymer sponge made up of polyvinyl alcohol and formaldehyde) and polyester Silastic rubber (foam sponge). This was the time when the most innovation happened but none of these options for breast enlargement caught on later on as they had some serious infection risks.

5.       It has been evidently known that Japanese prostitutes after the Second World War in the 1940s injected themselves with various substances to cater better to the likes of American soldiers. These substances include liquid silicone, cobra venom, and olive oil, the results of which were expectedly so, very bad in the coming years.

6.       Later on, a flap-based breast augmentation was performed by Morton I. Berson (1945), and Jacques Maliniac (1950), which involved the rotation of the chest wall tissue inside the breast that would increase the size of the breasts.

7.       The pointed breast aesthetic of the 50s gained a lot of popularity and lead to a demand for breast enhancement. The discoveries made during the Second World War could now be used by the civilians. These materials included Ivalon sponge which was made up of polyvinyl and another one was polyethylene tape which was wound into a ball and then, encased in more polyethylene.

8.       Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, surgeons continued using synthetic materials for filling breasts such as silicone injections from which the silicone granulomas and breast hardening with the help of mastectomy were developed at a later stage.

9.       In the year, 1961, Thomas Cronin and Frank Gerow two American plastic surgeons with the help of the Dow Corning Corporation had developed the first silicone breast implants. The first breast augmentation mammoplasty was performed using these silicone- filled implants in 1962 on Texan Timmie Jean Lindsey, who is 83 now.

10.   Following these developments, in the year 1964, the first saline breast implant was invented and manufactured by the French company Laboratories Arion. They were at a boom in the 90s after the FDA produced a statement notifying the public of all the possible risks of silicone implants.

11.   In 2012 the FDA approved silicone gel-filled implants. They were filled with silicone gel that felt a lot like real human flesh and was approved by the FDA after years of experimentation and research. The gel is thick and almost semi- solid and was followed by better coatings and shapes to give the natural look to the enhanced breasts.

Causes and symptoms of gynecomastia or male breasts

Gynecomastia is a condition that occurs in men, through which they develop enlargement in their breast tissues. This can affect one of the breasts or both of the breasts and is caused due to ann unbalance in the hormones of the person, oestrogen, and testosterone. This can develop in newborns or boys going through puberty and also in adult males as a result of hormonal imbalance.

This problem sometimes goes away with time but in case it persists, medication can be given or Gynecomastia Surgery can be performed. If left untreated, this condition may cause pain and sometimes in more serious cases may cause nipple discharge.

Causes of Gynecomastia or Male Breasts

Every individual, male or female has both male and female hormones. It is triggered by an imbalance in the level of these hormones. When, the level of oestrogen which is a female hormone increases in relation to the male hormone, androgens or testosterones. Several factors can contribute to this hormonal imbalance. It can be due to the development of certain conditions that reduce the effect of or decrease the secretion of the male hormones or on the other hand, the increased effect or production of female hormones.

Some of the causes are given below.

1.    HORMONES- Both the hormones, testosterone and oestrogen control the sexual characteristics in both males and females. It is believed that oestrogen is a female hormone and is secreted only in women. However, it is also found in males, although in lower quantities.

o   Gynecomastia in infants- Because of the presence of their mother's oestrogen, a large number of male infants have enlarged breasts when they are born. Within two to three weeks after their birth, the swollen breast tissue becomes normal as the female hormones go away.

o   Gynecomastia during puberty- During puberty gynecomastia is caused by hormone changes and this is very commonly occurring gynecomastia. In most boys going through puberty, without treatment, the swollen breast tissue goes away within six months up to two years.

o   Gynecomastia in men- For men between the ages of 50 and 80, gynecomastia becomes prevalent again. One in four men in this age group is definitely affected by this condition.

2.    MEDICATIONS- Anti-androgens, that are used for treating prostate cancer and prostate enlargement. Gynecomastia can easily develop in HIV postive male because the medications can cause the disorder. Other medications that can cause gynecomastia include antibiotics, anti-anxiety medications, anti-depressents, ulcer medications, heart medications and cancer treatments.

3.    DRUGS AND ALCOHOL- Some drugs such as amphetamines, meth, marijuana, heroin and methadone can cause gynecomastia. Also, alcohol is believed to be trigger.

4.    HEALTH CODITIONS- Some health conditions can cause hormonal imbalances in men and hence, lead them to develop gynecomastia. These health condititons include hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, liver failure, malnutrition or starvation, hypogondanism, tumours and also, due to aging.

Symptoms

These symptoms may develop in one or both of the breasts.

1.    When a man develops gynecomastia they can identify it as a rubbery mass sitting firmly underneath the nipple area. It may or may not be tender and is usually, an inch and half across the nipple.

2.    Sometimes, this is the only symptom by which gynecomastia can be identified, but in more severe cases, there may be some fluid discharge from the nipple.

3.    In some cases, it can also be painful.

What goes into Mommy Makeover

While having children is one of the ultimate gifts, the physical changes it brings to the body sometimes can’t be reversed no matter the amount of diets or exercise you put your body through. Women’s bodies undergo a big amount of changes as a result of a pregnancy and it can be hard to get the pre-baby body back. In addition to pregnancy causing extra deposits of fat in the abdominal area, it also stretches the skin and the underlying stomach muscles, leaving the area with stretch marks and loose, overhanging skin. After pregnancy, the breasts can also be affected due to breastfeeding and hormonal changes, the result leads to breast sagging.  This surgical procedure is a combination of cosmetic surgical operations that is specially designed for mothers who wish to restore and improve their bodies after the physical changes a pregnancy often brings.

With a Mommy Makeover, all of these problems can be addressed at once by tightening the abdominal muscles and eliminating the excess fat as well as lifting the breasts to achieve their pre-pregnancy position. A typical Mommy Makeover includes breast augmentation, a tummy tuck and sometimes a liposuction.

The first part of a Mommy Makeover is a tummy tuck. It is the most ideal procedure for woman whose stomach muscles and skin have been stretched by pregnancy on the midsection of the body. After one or more pregnancies, these effects can be significant and troubling for any mom. The solution for many moms in San Antonio is a tummy tuck.

During pregnancy when the fetus grows inside the uterus, it ultimately presses on the abdominal muscle wall, pulling apart the "six-pack" muscles and often causing permanent separation. When this happens, only surgery can bring these muscles back together and restore the abdomen. During the tummy tuck procedure, the muscles that have been stretched will be reconnected and tighten. Excess fat will also be removed and stretched skin cut away. A tummy tuck can also remove the stretch marks below the belly button.

The second part will involve breast augmentation surgery and/or a breast lift. A number of breast enhancement procedures can be combined to address breast droop after pregnancy. The goal is to restore fullness to your breasts and to raise and reshape.

A traditional breast lift can be performed to eliminate excess skin and tighten the breast area, creating a firmer bust line. Excess skin will be trimmed and supporting tissue will be tightened to help you achieve an uplifted, youthful breast contour. After surgery, your breasts will be higher on the chest and firmer to the touch. During the procedure, the nipple and areola can be repositioned or resized to further enhance the appearance of your breast.

 Breast enlargement with implants can add volume and new contour to the breasts. Breast enlargement not only revitalizes your bust after the effects of pregnancy, but it can also take your makeover one step further by creating a whole new body image. Breast augmentation typically requires two small incisions. The incisions can be around the nipple, near the underarm or beneath the breast to allow insertion of the implant. The implants can be placed above or below the chest muscles.

During a pregnancy when your body weight is constantly changing, stubborn fat deposits can appear on different parts of the body. The location varies from woman to woman. Some are bothered by fat in the thighs, while others tend to accumulate fat in the arms or anywhere in the upper body. Some women may choose to go through a liposuction to finish up their Mommy Makeover. Liposuction is one of the cosmetic enhancement procedures that is most commonly performed all over the world. It is used to remove excess fat deposits from any area of the body. Combined with other procedures, it can be an essential component in your journey to achieve total body rejuvenation after pregnancy.

A mommy makeover may be completed in a single day or it can be done in a series performed weeks or months apart.  A combined procedure of breast and body contouring can involve more downtime than just a single procedure. Some help at home will be needed for about one week after surgery, while complete recovery requires several weeks. As any other cosmetic procedures, it may take about six months to a year to appreciate the final results of your mommy makeover.

The cost of a Mommy Makeover can range depending upon your special requests and factors as geographic location and individual physician practices. Since every surgery is personalized, the best way to get the most accurate price is to speak with a plastic surgeon. If you are in the San Antonio, Texas area, consider visiting Dr. Suresh Koneru, a board-certified plastic surgeon at Advanced Concepts in Plastic Surgery.

Stem Cell Therapy For Knee Pain

What are the most common causes of knee pain?

Knee pain is not at all uncommon. Many of us experience it for many different reasons. Injury, for instance, can cause knee pain.

• ·         ACL injury

o   The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) connects your shinbone to your thighbone. If you are an athlete, you are familiar with ACL injuries. It happens frequently to basketball and soccer players. When the ACL is torn in your knee, it can be severe. It may require surgery to recover your knee pain.

• ·         Fracture

o   The femur (thigh bone), patella (kneecap), tibia (shine bone), and fibula come together to form your knee. Each of these has the potential to be broken. Falls and motor vehicle collisions are common ways for knee fractures to occur. However, if you have osteoarthritis, even a simple fall could cause a fracture. Depending on the severity of the fracture, you will require different treatments.

• ·         Torn meniscus

o   The cartilage of the meniscus acts as a shock absorber for the knee. This prevents your femur and tibia from rubbing together. Trauma to the meniscus can cause a tear or, as you age, you may lose your natural cartilage. Without this protection, natural movement will become painful.

• ·         Patellar tendinitis

o   Tendinitis is caused by inflammation and irritation of the tendons. This happens to athletes who do a lot of jumping.

While injuries can take an otherwise healthy knee and cause it to experience pain, sometimes there are mechanical issues causing knee pain.

• ·         Hip or foot pain

o   When your hip or foot is injured, your way of walking can be thrown off. This change in your natural gait may result in you developing knee pain.

• ·         Dislocated kneecap

o   The patella (kneecap) can slip out of place. This, of course, results in knee pain.

• ·         Loose body

o   Degradation of bone or cartilage can result in pieces breaking off. These free floating pieces can hinder knee joint movement and result in pain.

There are hundreds of different types of arthritis. They can absolutely result in knee pain.

• ·         Osteoarthritis

o   This type of arthritis is also known as degenerative arthritis. The wear-and-tear on your knee causes the cartilage to degrade. Without cartilage to cushion the joint, your knee will experience significant pain.

• ·         Rheumatoid arthritis

o   This kind of arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can impact any joint in the body, including the knees.

• ·         Gout

o   When uric acid crystals build up in a joint, it is called gout. It most commonly occurs in the big toe but it can happen in the knee.

• ·         Septic arthritis

o   An infection within the knee joint. That causes swelling, pain and redness.

When do you need to see a doctor about knee pain?

While knee pain is not uncommon, it’s also not something that you simply need to bear. We all experience minor aches and pains depending on our activity. However, when your day-to-day life is disrupted due to knee pain, then you need to seek help. More specifically, contact a doctor if you:

• ·         Feel unstable like your knee is going to “give out”
• ·         Notice an obvious deformity in your leg or knee
• ·         Cannot fully extend your knee
• ·         Have noteworthy knee swelling
• ·         Cannot bear weight on your knee
• ·         Develop a fever

All of these symptoms are serious and should not be ignored. Knee pain may not be unusual but it can become incredibly serious if not treated properly.

What are some common treatments for knee pain?

If you pain is minor, then you can treat your knees yourself. Rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE) are useful tools for self-care. Additionally, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.) can help relieve knee pain.

Will my insurance cover stem cell therapy?

Unfortunately, most stem cell treatments are not covered by health insurance. While you can check into your own personal plan, more often than not, you will have to pay for stem cell treatments yourself.

Severe cases of knee pain may require surgery. Knee replacements are not uncommon. However, as regenerative medicine evolves, there are more and more options for minimally invasive options. Stem cell injections can be used to repair and regenerate lost tissue in your knees. This can help with your knee pain by correcting the root cause.

How do I decided where to get stem cell therapy for my knee pain?

When selecting a medical team to provide you stem cell treatments, it is incredibly important to do your homework. All across the globe, there are “clinics” that claim to have medical treatments for numerous ailments, including knee pain. Stem cell therapy has great potential and there are FDA approved treatments available commercially. However, many of the stories in the news refer to theoretical applications or treatments that are still in clinical trials. These predatory clinics capitalize on the media’s love for “miracle” regenerative medicine stories to prey on desperate patients out of their money. Sadly, while going through the motions of treating the patients they are swindling, these clinics can often cause more harm than good.

This is your health! Don’t entrust it to anyone who doesn’t have the technical skills and experience to properly care for you.

If you are considering stem cell therapy for your knee pain, make sure to investigate the clinic, medical group, or doctor that you are considering using. Any legitimate organization, like the Stem Cell Institute of Texas, will be glad to explain the FDA guidelines and their personal background to you. Asking questions is your right as a patient!

Top Diseases that peak during fall – winter

As summer is ending and the leaves start to change color, and cold weather starts to set across the country, certain illnesses rise to their peak and spread throughout your workplace and schools.

Due to this changes from hot to chillier weather and your kids going back to school, a gigantic number of germs spark the start of a new season of diseases that sweep the country. When the weather starts to turn into icy temperatures, colder air and darker skies, the threat of catching certain diseases is greater. The cold weather suppresses your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. The chilly days of autumn are responsible for colds, flues and allergies.

 Fall's kickoff sparks the start of flu season beginning in the autumn months and continues all the way to January and February during the brunt of winter. The flu, a respiratory illness, typically spreads from person to person mostly through coughs, sneezes and even talking. It is possible to contract the flu just by touching a surface that is already infected with the flu virus and then transmitting it to your mouth, eyes or nose. Each year up to 20 percent of the population is impacted by the flu.

Common colds can affect anyone at any time of the year, but peak cold hits during the colder and rainy months. There are over 1 billion colds reported in the United States throughout each year. An upper respiratory infection, colds are spread similarly to the flu. Colds ordinarily bring nasal congestion, scratchy throats and sneezing along with other symptoms depending on the strain.

Norovirus, is one of the most common stomach inflammation illness in the U.S and it is commonly referred to as the stomach flu. It reaches its highest strength during the fall and winter months. The stomach flu is extremely contagious and can be spread easily from person to person.

Ear infections, especially in younger kids, are more likely to occur in fall and winter rather than any other season. Changes in climate, especially as colder air starts to hit, will most likely enhance the threat of an ear infection. Symptoms of general ear pain and even nausea can be the most common symptoms.

Allergies can happen at any time of the year. Fall allergy triggers are different but they can cause just as many symptoms as in the spring and summer. Ragweed is the biggest allergy trigger in the fall. Though it usually starts to release pollen during the cool nights and warm days in August, it can last into September and October.  Even if it doesn't grow where you live, ragweed pollen can travel for hundreds of miles on the wind.

Mold is another fall trigger. You may think of mold growing in your basement or bathroom -- damp areas in the house -- but mold spores also love wet spots outside. Piles of damp leaves are ideal breeding grounds for mold. Also, don’t forget dust mites. While they’re common during the humid summer months, they can get stirred into the air the first time you turn on your heat in the fall. They can trigger sneezes, wheezes, and runny noses.

Asthma is one of the most severe diseases there is of the respiratory system. Asthmatics must avoid the dust, mold and the small and humid spaces because they can provoke a severe asthma attack. Due to the cold weather, people with asthma must avoid getting a cold, flu or bronchitis. They should spend as much as possible less time outdoors during fall to avoid asthma attacks caused by weather.

Arthritis is a form of joint disorder that involves inflammation in one or more joints of your body. Many people that suffer from arthritis swear by the pain in their joints as a predictor that rainy or cold weather is coming. If it’s cold outside, keep aching hands warm with gloves and try adding extra layers over your knees and legs to prevent the colder air from causing pain. While it's understandable to want to avoid the winter weather, people with joint pain should always stay active. The less sedentary you are, the better your physical function is going to be. Try to exercise inside and keep your body active to avoid the symptoms of arthritis. Finally, always stay safe particularly when the weather turns icy. It is important that people with arthritis protect their joints from further damage. If you’re going outside, pick solid, supportive shoes and try to walk on a surface that doesn’t look slippery or fragile.

Dehydration is not only a summer thing. People don't realize that it's just as easy to become dehydrated in the winter. Because few people recognize the signs of dehydration in the winter, it can be even more dangerous. Water is vital to both organ function and digestion any time of the year! Do not forget to keep yourself hydrated even in the chilly days of Autumn. 

Everything You Need To Know About Hip Replacement Surgery

The hip joint is the body’s largest ball-and-socket joint. It is designed to withstand repeated motion and fits together carefully to allow movement in our body. You may not think about it but our hips deal with serious stress on a daily basis. Even simply walking or running puts a lot of force on our hips. In a healthy situation, a cushion of cartilage prevents friction as the bone moves in the socket. Thankfully, our bones and cartilage are both very durable. However, the hip joint is not indestructible and can wear down or become damaged with age. If you are especially active, the muscles and the tendons in the hip can also get overused. In older individuals who develop osteoarthritis, the hip bone itself can easily be fractured during a fall. Quality of life can significantly decrease after a hip fracture. Big or small, hip pain can impact all aspects of your daily life.

Depending on what is causing your hip pain, you might start to feel discomfort in your lower body: your thigh, inside the hip joint, your groin, outside the hip joint and your buttocks. Sometimes pain from your back or groin can also be related to the hip. If you start to notice that your pain gets worse with activity, it might be caused by arthritis. Along with the pain, you could have a reduced range of motion. Sometimes, people develop a limp because of the persistent hip pain.

If you have persistent pain that is impacting your ability to live your life normally, it might be time for you to get a hip replacement. During this operation, the surgeon removes the damaged sections of your hip joint and replaces them with parts usually constructed of metal and hard plastic. This artificial joint, a prosthesis, helps you reduce your pain and improve function. Hip replacement surgery can be performed traditionally or by using a minimally-invasive technique. The main difference between the two procedures is the size of the incision.

Hip replacement surgery has been performed for over a hundred years. As well as any other surgical techniques, techniques are being improved all the time. Similarly, as any other surgery, there can be risks. Since you will not be able to move around a lot after the surgery, blood clots can be a concern. To prevent this, your doctor will give you blood thinners to help prevent blood clots from occurring.

During the standard hip replacement surgery, the patient is given general anesthesia to relax the muscles and to get the patient to a temporary deep sleep. The anesthesia will prevent the patient from feeling any pain or discomfort during the surgery, as well as preventing any awareness of the procedure. A spinal anesthetic can also be given as an alternative to help prevent pain.

After that, the doctor will make a cut along the side of the hip and move the muscles connected to the top of the thighbone to help expose the hip joint. Next, the ball portion of the joint is removed by cutting the thighbone with a saw. Then an artificial joint is attached to the thighbone using a special material that allows the remaining bone to attach to the new joint. The doctor then prepares the surface of the hip bone to attach the replacement socket part to the hip bone. The new ball part of the thighbone is inserted into the socket part of the hip. The doctor then reattaches the muscles and closes the incision.

After the surgery, you will likely have to stay in the hospital for a couple of days with a pillow between your legs to keep the new hip joint stay in place. A drainage tube will be placed in your bladder to help you go to the bathroom. Physical therapy will begin the day after the surgery and within days you can start to walk with crutches or a cane. The physical therapy will continue for weeks to months following the surgery.

For six to twelve months after hip replacement surgery, twisting the leg involved should be avoided. Also, the leg involved should not cross the midline of your body or turn it inward.  This also includes bending forward at the waist as well as squatting. Your physical therapist will provide you with different techniques and equipment needed to help you follow the guidelines and have precautions while performing your daily activities. 

Coming back home might be hard after hip replacement surgery, but there are a couple things you can do to make life much easier.  For example, you can keep stair climbing to a minimum. Before coming back home, make the necessary arrangements so you will only have to go up or down the stairs once a day. Another thing you can do is sit firm in a straight-back chair. To avoid falls, try and remove all rugs from the floor to keep it clutter free. For daily necessities like going to the bathroom, use an elevated toilet seat. With this, you will prevent bending too far at the hips.

As surgical techniques keep evolving, we now know that about 85% of the hip joint implants will last 20 years. Getting a skilled surgeon can make all the difference. The South Texas Spinal Clinic is an excellent option for anyone in San Antonio, Texas.