Common Bone And Joint Conditions

Our body has more than 200 joints to connect as many as 200 bones that we have. However, we rarely contemplate as to how this mechanism works. There are some conditions that risk the proper working of this natural network of bones and joints. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.   

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common joint disorders that occurs when your cartilage between two joints begins to wear down. As a result of this, your bones will come in contact thereby rubbing each other. This results in swelling and stiffness. Generally, almost everyone shows some symptoms by the age of 70.  

Symptoms of osteoarthritis  

• Excessive swelling and joint pain 

• Stiff joints  

Causes of osteoarthritis  

• Osteoarthritis is hereditary. If anyone in your family has it, chances are that you might have it as well.  

• Obesity or overweight  

• Fractures and joint injuries  

• Physical activities that involve a direct impact on the joints  

Prevention of osteoarthritis  

• Refrain from using your painful joints frequently  

• Be healthy and keep your body fit  

• Enhance your muscles around weight-bearing joints  

Gout 

Gout typically affects your joint in the foot or ankle. This is a painful condition observed by men during their middle-age and women during their old age.  

Symptoms of gout 

• Severe swelling and painful joint 

• Typically observed during the night  

Causes of gout 

• Abnormal blood levels of uric acid 

• Alcohol, meat, or seafood can start an attack. In addition to that, organ meats such as liver are also found to cause gout.  

• Gout is also associated with the consumption of diuretics or “water pills”  

Prevention of gout  

• Monitoring your diet and avoiding foods that worsen gout 

• Seeking medical attention and taking prescribed medications  

Rheumatoid arthritis 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints and the neighboring tissues. Most commonly observed during the middle age, there is not a specific age group that observes the disease the most.  

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis  

• Morning stiffness lasts more than an hour  

• Pain and swelling of limb-joints  

Cause of rheumatoid arthritis  

Even though the exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis is unknown, the disease is associated with infection, genes, and hormone changes.  

Prevention of rheumatoid arthritis  

There’s no specific treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.  

• Refrain from tobacco products, as they are known to worsen the condition.  

• Seek medical attention as early treatment can prevent the joint from getting damaged.  

Bursitis  

Bursitis is a medical condition that is observed as a result of swelling or irritation of a fluid-filled sac called a bursa. Bursa acts as a cushion between tendons, joints, and muscles. 

Symptoms of bursitis  

• Pain and tenderness while pressing the joints  

• Stiffness while moving the affected joint  

• Redness, warmth, and swelling over the joint  

Cause of bursitis  

• A sudden change in activity level  

• Bursitis is also associated with trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout  

• In some cases, the exact cause cannot be found  

Prevention of bursitis  

Avoid repetitive physical activities that cause discomfort in your joints. Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.    

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Hip Replacement Surgery 

Hip replacement is a major orthopedic surgery procedure, which will involve a significant recovery process. Depending on your extent of surgery and your general health condition, you may be able to return home the same day after your surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the estimated recovery with you during your initial consultation.  

Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV. 

Recovery Process 

Most patients may be ready to walk with the assistance of walker or another support device within 24 hours after their hip replacement procedure. You may require guidance from a physical therapist who will teach you how to move safely while taking care of your new hip as it heals. The precise recovery process and guidelines will vary from one patient to another, but in general you should follow these suggestions:  

• Seek approval from your surgeon before you return to work or resume your daily routine. 
• Activities such as driving should be resumed depending on your hip function and the type of pain medications you are taking.  

• If you have a sedentary job, you may be able to go back to work in about one month after your hip replacement.  
• If your nature of work involves standing for long hours, lifting heavy objects, or bending, you may have to wait for about two months before you resume work.  
• Heavy manual labor should anyway be avoided after hip replacement.  
• Your full recovery may take anywhere from three to 12 months.  

Resumption of physical activities such as yoga, golf, hiking, or other sports should be done only after consulting with your surgeon.  

Taking Care of Your New Hip 

Your new hip will last long or permanently, provided you take proper care. The care instructions may vary depending on your specific condition, but in general you should:  

• Avoid twisting your hip 
• Avoid bending your hip excessively during any activity  
• Do not swivel on the ball of your foot  
• Take small steps when you turn around  

• During the early healing stage, avoid lying on your side to minimize pressure on the hip  
• Avoid crossing your legs over each other  
• Avoid low toilet seats or low chairs  
• Do not forcibly perform any activity that makes your hip feel uncomfortable  

Steps to Improve Your Recovery  

Once your surgeon allows you to resume exercises, get into a regular, healthy exercise routine. Movement is a vital part of a healthy recovery after hip replacement. Pay attention to your body weight and follow a balanced diet along with an active lifestyle. If you are overweight, it can put strain on your new hip and increase its wear or risk of complications. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for hip replacement surgery. 

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Orthopedic surgeon hip replacement questions

Your choice of an orthopedic surgeon for your hip replacement surgery is a decision that you will probably live with for the rest of your life. The single most important factor that will influence the final outcome of your hip replacement surgery is the skill and experience of the operating surgeon.  

A highly qualified and trained orthopedic surgeon with thorough knowledge of the hip procedures will be able to successfully eliminate your hip joint problems and pain, while restoring your function and personal confidence for years to come.  

On the other hand, if you work with a less trained or less experienced orthopedic surgeon for an advanced procedure such as hip replacement, your risk of not achieving the most satisfactory outcomes could increase. Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide reliable and proven orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.  

Clarify Your Doubts during the Consultation 

The initial consultation with an orthopedic surgeon will give you an opportunity to clear all your doubts and concerns. A dedicated surgeon will encourage you to ask questions and provide you thorough and accurate answers. Once you have clarity about the surgeon’s skills and capabilities as well as about the hip replacement surgery, you can make a more confident and informed decision.  

Patients who understand exactly what the hip replacement surgery will entail, have trust in their surgeon’s abilities, and keep realistic expectations are likely to achieve most satisfying results from their procedure. Therefore, make the most of your pre-operative consultation with the surgeon.  

It is best to prepare a list of your questions in advance and carry the list with you to the surgeon’s office. This will ensure that none of your pertinent questions gets missed out.  

Questions to Ask 

• Are you board certified in orthopedic surgery? 
• How many years of training and experience do you have in orthopedic procedures? 
• Have you performed hip surgeries in the past, and what is your success rate in this procedure? 
• Will you recommend general anesthesia or IV sedation with local anesthesia for my surgery? 
• How long with the procedure take inside the operating room? 

• Will you perform the hip replacement surgery at a hospital or an accredited surgery center?  
• What type of surgical technique will be involved in my hip replacement, and is it possible to make the procedure less invasive? 
• How long will it take to recover completely after hip replacement? 
• Will I require rehab and physical therapy after the surgery? 
• Are there any potential risks involved in the procedure which I should know about?  

• How much will my hip replacement surgery cost, and will your office guide or support me with the insurance requirements?  
• Do you have a policy for revision surgeries if any problem occurs with my hip replacement surgery?

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for the latest procedures in orthopedic surgery. 

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

MCL Injury

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is situated on the inner aspect, or part, of the knee, but outside the joint itself. Ligaments connect bones as well as offer stability and strength to a joint.

The MCL attaches the top of the tibia (shinbone) to the bottom of the femur (thighbone). An injury to the MCL is commonly referred to as an MCL sprain. Ligament injuries may either stretch the ligament or tear it. 

MCL injury of the knee typically occurs due to a direct blow to the knee. This type of injury occurs commonly in contact sports. It is typically the result of a blow or hit to the outer aspect of the knee, which causes the MCL to stretch or tear.

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide procedures for the knee and shoulder to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as Greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, Mesquite, NV, and surrounding communities. 

 

Types of MCL Injuries

MCL injuries can be categorized as grades 1, 2, or 3:

• Grade 1: A grade 1 MCL injury is the least severe, and it signifies that the ligament has been stretched but not torn.
• Grade 2: A grade 2 MCL injury implies that the ligament has been partially torn, which typically leads to some instability in the knee joint.
• Grade 3: A grade 3 MCL injury refers to the severe type of ligament injury, and it means that the ligament is completely torn. A grade 3 MCL sprain commonly causes joint instability.

 

How’s an MCL Injury Treated?

Treatment options differ depending on the severity of the MCL injury. A majority of MCL injuries will heal by themselves following a few weeks of rest. 

 

Immediate Treatment

Immediate treatment is required to ease pain and help stabilize the knee. The treatment options include the following:

• Applying ice to reduce inflammation
• Raising the knee above the heart to help with inflammation
• Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to ease pain and inflammation
• Compressing the knee using a brace or an elastic bandage
• Resting
• Using crutches to keep weight off the injured knee

 

Rehab

When recovering from the injury, the goal is to regain strength in the knee and prevent further injury. The treatment options may include:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and enhance the range of motion of the knee
• Wearing a protective knee brace during physical activity
• Restricting activities that can lead to further injury, such as contact sports

 

Surgery

In rare circumstances, an MCL injury will necessitate surgery. A patient will need surgery when the ligament is damaged in such a manner that it cannot repair itself. It is also undertaken when the MCL injury occurs along with other ligament injuries.

Prior to the surgery, the surgeon may use arthroscopy to properly examine the extent of the injury and to look for associated injuries inside the knee. In arthroscopy, a small and narrow camera is inserted through a small incision, or cut.

Following the arthroscopic exam, the surgeon will make a tiny incision along the inner aspect of the knee. In case the ligament is torn where it connects either to the shinbone or the thighbone, the surgeon can use one of the following to reattach it:

• Large stitches
• Bone staples
• A metal screw
• A device known as a suture anchor

The surgeon will stitch the ligament together if the tear is in the middle of the ligament. Board certified orthopedic surgeons at the Thomas and Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as Greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, Mesquite, NV, and nearby areas for knee and shoulder procedures.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.