Category Archives: News and Press

Microdiscectomy: Relief for Herniated Discs

Do you or someone you know have a herniated or bulging disc? A minimally invasive procedure called Microdiscectomy could provide relief for pain caused by a lumbar herniated disc.

Herniated discs occur when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through the tougher exterior casing. The herniated disc can press on the nerves near the spinal disc, resulting in pain. Herniated discs can affect any part of the spine, but are most frequently associated with the lower part (lumbar) of the spine.

Symptoms of herniated discs in the lower back are:
• Pain that radiates to the legs and feet – called Sciatica
• Tingling or numbness in the feet
• Muscle weakness

Herniated discs are one of the most common causes of back, neck, or leg pain (Sciatica). There are a variety of treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical. However, when non-surgical treatment no longer offers the desired results, Microdiscectomy could be an option.

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used by AOC’s Spine Team. The procedure removes the herniated or protruding portion of the disc, often using an operating microscope. Microdiscectomy spine surgery can relieve neural impingement by creating more room for the nerves to heal. This minimally invasive approach, with small incision site, offers the benefit of pain relief and faster recovery time.

Our skilled specialists understand lower back pain can limit mobility and the ability to perform life’s simplest activities. AOC has helped hundreds of patients find relief from back pain. Make an appointment today to consult with our fellowship, board certified AOC Spine Team of Dr. Donahoe and Dr. Revels for non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Call the Spine Line at 251-410-3604 or visit alortho.com to schedule your appointment.

Spinal Stenosis

Our spine is made up of 33 bones. These bones and the discs between them are the passage for the spinal cord and nerves. The spinal cord connects the nerves of the body to the brain. But when the passageway starts to narrow, a condition called Spinal Stenosis can occur.

Stenosis can affect any part of the spine, thus narrowed area in the bones of the neck is called cervical stenosis and in the lower back is called lumbar stenosis.

When there is pressure on nerves inside the narrowed spinal canal, pain in the legs and low back can occur especially when walking. Pain may improve when leaning forward and bent at the waist like leaning over a shopping cart or a cane.

Due to the fact that stenosis may pinch the nerves that control muscle power and sensation in the legs, symptoms need to be observed as:
– Frequent falling, clumsiness
– Pain and difficulty when walking
– Numbness, tingling, hot or cold feelings in the legs

When non-surgical treatment is no longer an option, the fellowship trained, board-certified AOC Spine Team of Dr. Donahoe and Dr. Revels are skilled specialists who understand the dynamics of the spine and the importance of giving their patients an excellent quality of life.

Laminectomy, one procedure that is used by the Spine Team, actually creates space by removing the back part of the vertebra that covers your spinal canal. Also known to some as decompression surgery, laminectomy enlarges your spinal canal to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Practicing good spinal and joint health is key to reducing back problems. However, due to genetics, poor posture, degenerative disc disease, age and diseases like arthritis, sometimes problems just can’t be avoided.

The Spine Team at AOC is here for your questions and health care needs. Just call 251-410-3600 or visit our website at www.alortho.com

Texting: A Real Pain in the Neck

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re hunched over your mobile phone or tablet. Did you know, bending your neck forward to look down at a mobile device can apply up to 60 lbs of pressure on your cervical spine?

A recent study suggested tilting the neck down, at varying degrees, to use a mobile device, can cause unnecessary strain on the cervical spine. To put this in perspective, take into account the average human head weighs about 10 to 12 pounds. If an individual tilts their head down to a 15-degree angle, the weight of the head increases to about 27 pounds.

Many Americans spend two to four hours per day looking down at a mobile device. Over time, the posture of bending the neck forward can cause a syndrome called “text neck.” Text neck syndrome is a group of symptoms developed specifically from the way people hold a mobile device. Text neck can also lead to early wear and tear or degenerative musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis.

Signs you might be experiencing text neck:
– Neck pain
– Shoulder pain
– Headaches
– Tension
– Difficulty moving the neck

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, AOC’s team of fellowship trained, board-certified, spine specialists, Dr. Kevin Donahoe, and Dr. Tim Revels are dedicated to alleviating pain and providing an improved range of motion for each patient. For more information, call – 251-410-3600 or visit our website – alortho.com

http://www.buzzfeed.com/brandensueper/how-texting-affects-your-posture#.xkJrJaXVA8

Cervical Spine: Get to know your neck

Do you know where your cervical spine is? If you guessed your neck, you were correct. The cervical spine plays an instrumental role in the spinal column’s flexibility and range of motion. Your neck consists of seven bones (C1-C7), which are separated by intervertebral discs. These intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers during daily activity and allow the neck to move freely.

Our necks have a hefty job to perform: the cervical spine supports the weight of the head (the average human head weighs between 10-12 lbs). Supporting the weight of the head can leave the neck vulnerable to injuries and conditions that cause pain and restrict motion. For example, sometimes a disc can become diseased or the space between the vertebrae can narrow, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. This creates pain, numbness or weakness. When these symptoms do not respond to nonsurgical types of treatment, then cervical disc surgery may be recommended.

Surgery for cervical disc disease is called discectomy. This surgical procedure involves removing a disc that is pinching a nerve or pressing on the spinal cord. Once the diseased disc is removed, spine specialists such as AOC’s fellowship trained, Dr. Kevin Donahoe and Dr. Tim Revels, will either use cervical fusion or replace the disc with an artificial implant.

Signs it might be time to see a spine specialist:
– Neck pain or stiffness
– Recurring headaches
– Pain that travels down into the shoulder or arms
– Weakness in shoulders, arms, hands, or legs
– Numbness in your arms – feeling of pins and needles

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, know that AOC’s team of fellowship trained spine specialists, Dr. Kevin Donahoe, and Dr. Tim Revels, are dedicated to alleviating pain and providing an improved range of motion for each patient. For more information, call the Spine Line at AOC – 251-410-3600 or visit our website – alortho.com

Hip Replacement Surgery: What You Should Know

For many people who are affected by persistent hip pain or limited mobility, hip replacement surgery can
be a life-changing experience.

Hip replacement, also called total hip arthroplasty, is a common surgical procedure to replace a damaged, or worn out hip joint with a prosthetic implant. Not all patients will require a total replacement, others may only need a hemi or half replacement.

Of course, there are various reasons why someone would consult a joint specialist about hip replacement surgery. Typically, surgery may be an option after a hip injury (fracture/break) or severe pain due to arthritis.

Signs it may be time to consult a joint specialist:
– Hip pain while walking, sitting or using stairs
– Hip pain that keeps you awake at night
– Swelling or stiffness in the hip joint

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A Giant Step Forward in Knee Replacement Surgery

It’s an unfortunate fact that up to 20% of patients who undergo traditional knee replacement are unhappy with their results due to persistent pain in the joint—even after surgery. This chronic pain typically comes from a variety of sources, including instability, stiffness, or improper fit and sizing of the implants. AOC has the only local surgeon, Dr. Matt Barber, who provides a solution to some of these potential problems with the ConforMIS iTotal Knee Replacement.

Dr. Barber knew there had to be a way to achieve a higher success rate for total knee replacement. He found that ConforMIS uses 3D printing technology to fabricate patient-specific implants designed to perfectly match an individual’s anatomy and replicate the form and function of his or her original knee. By using a CT scan of the knee, ConforMIS’ computer software can calculate the shape and position of the implant that works best and restores the proper alignment of the leg.

While there are other technologies available (such as robotic assistance), they still use the conventional off-the-shelf knee implants, thus still having the potential for anatomic mismatches. ConforMIS’s total knee and partial knee replacements, on the other hand, are patient specific, producing a comfortable fit and allowing more natural movement with a quicker recovery time. In addition, the femoral component of this implant is thinner than those involved in a traditional total knee replacement, preserving more of the patient’s bone, which can be beneficial if other treatments are ever needed.

ConforMIS iTotal Knee Replacement is the first FDA-approved custom total knee replacement system for people who have osteoarthritis of the knee and is the only system of its kind designed for each individual patient’s needs.

For more information on this breakthrough technology, contact Dr. Matt Barber’s office at Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic at 251.410.3600 and learn how to increase your quality of life.

Holiday Survival Guide

It’s the most wonderful time of year, but sometimes all the holiday cheer can take a toll on your health. Follow these five tips to avoid a case of the humbugs this holiday season.

1. Keep off the Santa belly

With time constraints during the holidays, it’s easy to break away from your normal exercise routine. However, maintaining a regular exercise routine is the best way to keep your body healthy after eating all the delicious holiday treats. If spare time is slim, try one of these 10-minute at home workouts.

2. Water, not eggnog

It’s hard to say no to eggnog, but drinking plenty of water helps keep your joints flexible and pain-free. Also keep in mind drinking alcoholic beverages will dehydrate you, try to keep water close by at your holiday parties. *Remember: you should drink at least 6-8 glasses of water per day, so bring water with you wherever you go.

3. Sleep in peace

Between shopping for the perfect gift, baking sweet treats and attending holiday parties, you’re going to run yourself ragged. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Sleep will reduce the stress on your bones.

4. Decorate with caution

Each year, approximately 6,000 people will visit the emergency room due to a decorating-related fall. If you’re still adding the finishing touches to your holiday decorations, remember to use safety first.

5. Stock up the freezer

The holiday season is a busy time of year for everyone, which leaves little time to cook a healthy meal. Avoid the drive-thru with these healthy meals you can prepare ahead of time and enjoy later.

Amidst the excitement and the activity of the holiday season, don’t forget to take care of yourself. If you experience any pain, contact AOC. Call 251-410-3600 for more information or visit us at www.alortho.com and make an appointment.

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4 Ways to Avoid Holiday Back Pain

The holidays are here, and for many of us that means traveling to see friends and family. Whether you’re flying, driving or catching a train, you are going to be sitting for a prolonged period of time. Keep your travels comfortable and you back pain-free with these four tips:

Pack it light

Over-packing is easy to do, but it comes with a price – strain on muscles and joints. Avoid unnecessary pain during your travels by planning out what to pack and using luggage equipped with wheels. Depending on your trip, smaller bags may be a better option.

Lumbar support

Seats in planes, cars and trains don’t provide ample support for the lower back or neck. Make your seat more comfortable by using a lumbar support pillow. If you don’t have one, you can roll up a blanket, sweater or jacket.

Get your blood flowing

Light movement and stretching are the best ways to avoid spine stiffness. If you can, get up and move around every 30, or so minutes. Stretching and moving is also beneficial to circulation as blood brings important nutrients and oxygen to the structures of the back.

Check your posture

This can not be said enough, sit up straight! Slouching, slumping and hunching can all place unnecessary stress on your spine. Proper sitting posture: align your back with your seat, rest your head on the headrest and place your feet flat on the floor.

If traveling does a number on your back, make an appointment to visit one of AOC’s spine specialists.

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How to Choose the Right Orthopedic Surgeon

Choosing the right orthopedic surgeon is the first step toward a successful surgery and a fast recovery. You may be wondering, but how do I know which surgeon is right for me? Here are a few tips and questions to keep in mind through your decision process:

Ask around

Just as you consult your friends, family or neighbors about products and services, so should you about doctor recommendations. AOC’s Dr. Barber says that asking around is the safest bet. He added, “There are a lot of people in the community that have these surgeries. So if you know 10 people that have had a great result from one surgeon that’s usually a pretty good endorsement.”

Don’t just take your friends and family’s word for it, also seek professional recommendations from your doctor or healthcare provider. Asking around can help you find a starting point in your search for an orthopedic surgeon.

Quick search

Go to your search engine of choice and type in your potential surgeon’s name. Review what others have said and any other available information. Remember: not everything on the Internet is concrete – some reviews can be exaggerated. Take the information and use it with discretion.

Research further

Narrow down your search by looking at your potential surgeon’s credentials. Visit their practices website, and learn more about their work experience and area of specialty. If you want more information about a particular surgeon, a great source is the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Before you make your final decision, consider these questions:

Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation

1. Why do I need this operation?
2. How will the operation be performed?
3. Are there other treatment options, and is this operation the best option for me?
4. What are the risks, benefits, and possible complications for this operation?
5. How will I be monitored during the operation?
6. What can I expect before the operation?
Will I need any special preparation – tests, blood donation, blood thinners and change in my routine medications?
Will I need any special diet?
When do I have to stop eating and drinking?
Should I take my home medication on the day of my operation?
7. What can I expect for my recovery in terms of treatment, medication, diet, and home care?
What type of care will I have to provide for myself at home?
When will I be able to return to my regular activities (work, lifting, driving, and exercise)?
Will I need any medication—antibiotics, pain medication?
What can I do to help with my recovery?
8. Could you tell me about your experience with this operation?
Do you perform this operation regularly?
What is your success rate, and how often do your patients experience any problems?
Are you board certified?
Are you a member of the American College of Surgeons?
How can I contact you if I have more questions?
9. Is the surgical facility accredited and properly staffed?
10. How much will the operation cost me, and what type of insurance do you take?

What to Consider when Looking at Online Doctor Websites:

1. The Data
Where did they get the data?
How accurate is the data?
Is the data immune from bias?
Does the data consider practice specializations or areas of focus?
2. Healthcare Expertise
Other Resources for Joint Replacement Surgeon Data American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons

AOC understands selecting the right orthopedic surgeon can be overwhelming. Please visit our website, www.alortho.com, to learn more about our team of doctors and the services they provide. To schedule an appointment or consultation, please call: 251.410.3600

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Playing Injured: Not a Tough Call

Did you know that many NFL players risk their health by playing through injuries? Tough or not, their desire to stay on the field is so strong that it can sometimes overshadow their pain. The nature of this sport fosters high pain tolerance and quick recovery, but athletes shouldn’t always “suck it up,” as it increases their chances of re-injury or re-aggravation.

With playoffs approaching, it is important to look out for these four common football-related injuries and encourage players to seek proper treatment:

ACL/MCL/PCL/LCL tears – anterior cruciate, medial collateral, posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments are all located in the knee. Each serves a different purpose to the function of the knee. Depending on the area of impact, front, rear or side, these ligaments can be damaged or torn. These tears are dangerous because of their high pain level and long-term healing time. Tears can also affect a player’s long-term ability to play.

Concussions – Even though players wear helmets, concussions can still occur. Concussions are the result of a traumatic hit to the head and can have serious effects on the player. When in doubt, players should take the bench and seek medical attention.

Shoulder injuries – While shoulder pads are designed to absorb the shock of tackles, injury can still occur. Common shoulder injuries are: shoulder separation/ dislocation and shoulder tendonitis. If a player takes a direct blow below the shoulder, it can cause separation of the acromioclavicular joint. A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus detaches from the scapula. Shoulder tendonitis occurs due to overuse from throwing.

Ankle/Foot injuries – The most common sports injury is a sprained ankle. Ankle sprains and strains are caused by soft tissue damage from pivoting, changing direction or applying pressure to the joint.

Reality check: the longer an injury is played on, the longer it takes to retrain the muscle. If you’re injured while playing a sport, please make an appointment with one of our sports medicine orthopedics – Call: 251-410-3600

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Our Physicians

Stephen C. Ashe, DO

Matthew D. Barber, MD

Jeffrey D. Boatright, MD, MS

Jared L. Burkett, MD

Wayne P. Cockrell, Jr., MD

William A. Crotwell, III, MD

D. Kevin Donahoe, MD

Russell A Hudgens, MD

W. Christopher Patton, MD

Tim S. Revels, MD

César M. Roca, Jr., MD

Ramon F. Rodriguez, MD

Price O. Sessums, MD

Suanne White-Spunner, MD

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