Advertise on podcast: OrthoInfo

In this episode of the OrthoInfo podcast, hand and wrist surgeons Erica Taylor, MD, MBA, FAAOS, and Rashard Dacus, MD, FAAOS, walk through five common hand and wrist symptoms that patients should never ignore. They explain what each symptom might mean, how it is typically evaluated, and when it calls for prompt medical attention rather than a wait-and-see approach. Dr. Dacus draws on his extensive experience treating both athletes and everyday patients to explain how pain, nerve issues, tendon problems, and joint dysfunction can all show up in ways that look similar but require very different treatment. Along the way, the two discuss when symptoms can be managed at home, when they call for an office visit, and when they signal a true emergency. They also spend time talking about prevention, offering practical advice for keeping hands and wrists healthy over the long term. Key topics covered in this episode: Numbness and tingling that keeps returning, including the difference between local causes like carpal tunnel and systemic or neck-related causes How the location of numbness, whether in one finger or the whole hand, can help narrow down the underlying cause Swelling or pain after an injury that doesn't improve, including how to use RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) at home Warning signs that mean a patient should skip home treatment and seek urgent or emergency care Weakness, loss of grip, or dropping objects, and how pain, nerve issues, or tendon problems can each play a role A finger that gets stuck, droops, or doesn't move normally, including trigger finger, mallet finger, and tendon injuries How often these hand and wrist conditions can be treated without surgery Red flag symptoms such as deformity, color change, severe pain, and signs of infection that require immediate attention Everyday prevention strategies, including awareness of overuse, protective equipment, and honest self-assessment of injuries When to see a hand and wrist specialist versus another type of provider As Dr. Taylor and Dr. Dacus both note, many hand and wrist issues can be managed effectively, but only if patients pay attention to persistent or worsening symptoms and seek care early rather than waiting for things to resolve on their own. Host: Erica Taylor, MD, MBA, FAAOS, orthopaedic hand surgeon, Duke Health; Vice President of Health Equity, Duke Orthopaedics; Vice Chair of Culture, Engagement, and Impact, Duke University School of Medicine; Duke Fuqua School of Business Executive Faculty Guest: Rashard Dacus, MD, FAAOS, the Charles J. Frankel Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division Head of the Orthopaedic Hand and Upper Extremity Service, University of Virginia; Vice Chair of Community and Wellness, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia; team physician for James Madison University Athletics

In this episode of the OrthoInfo podcast, sports medicine surgeons Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS, and Nick Colyvas, MD, FAAOS, explain the most important things patients should and shouldn’t do after suffering a sports-related injury. The conversation covers a lot of ground. Dr. Colyvas explains why rest and ice are important “do”s and alcohol is a big “don’t” in the immediate aftermath of an injury. He and Dr. Mulcahey also break down the difference between anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers and how both can provide pain relief – just in different ways. The discussion then turns to warning signs patients should never ignore. Pain with weightbearing and significant swelling both come up as red flags, especially when they point toward something like an ACL tear. A key takeaway is that it’s always a bad idea to play through pain, especially when there are visible signs that something is wrong. Concussions are a key focus of the episode. Dr. Colyvas walks through the symptoms of a concussion, the dangers of returning to play too soon, and why even a small chance of a head injury means an athlete should be pulled from the game. Drs. Mulcahey and Colyvas also discuss the value of physical therapy in recovery, common mistakes patients make with braces and crutches, and why rushing back into a sport before both the injury and muscle strength have recovered can lead to new, sometimes worse, injuries. Key topics covered in this episode: What to avoid in the first few days after an injury, including alcohol Why you shouldn’t try to play through an injury The difference between anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers Red flag symptoms that mean a patient should seek medical attention, including pain with weightbearing and, especially, swelling Signs that a knee injury could be an ACL tear Concussion symptoms, why every head injury must be taken seriously and evaluated, what to avoid during concussion recovery, and the dangers of returning to play too soon after a concussion Why it’s important to fully recovery before returning to play after any injury, even seemingly minor ones The role of physical therapy in recovery, with or without surgery Common challenges patients face with braces and crutches, and how to address them Listeners walk away with a clear takeaway: Healing takes patience, and rushing back into activity – whether after a concussion or musculoskeletal injury – can set recovery back further and possibly lead to additional injuries. Host: Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS, Professor and Chief of Sports Medicine Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center Guest: Nick Colyvas, MD, FAAOS, Professor of Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco

In this episode of the OrthoInfo Podcast, host Julie E. Adams, MD, FAAOS, welcomes Lisa Cannada, MD, FAAOS, to unpack a diagnosis many patients find frightening: the fragility fracture. Dr. Cannada explains what sets these low-energy breaks apart from other types of fractures, where in the body they most often occur, and what they reveal about a patient's underlying bone health. Listeners will learn how fragility fractures are treated, including the many factors that go into the decision about whether or not to perform surgery. But the conversation goes beyond treatment of the fracture itself, exploring how orthopaedic surgeons work as part of a larger care team to identify the root causes of fragility fractures and reduce the risk of a second one. Dr. Cannada also shares practical advice about building healthier bones at every age, from childhood habits to post-menopausal care, and offers a hopeful message: With the right education and follow-up, patients can protect their independence and stay active for years to come. Key Topics Covered in this Episode: What defines a fragility fracture and how it differs from high-energy fractures Common fracture sites in the geriatric population, including the wrist, proximal humerus, hip, and spine Risk factors such as medications, smoking, alcohol use, poor diet, and home environment hazards Why one fragility fracture doubles the risk of a second and the broader consequences of repeat fractures on independence and longevity Shared decision-making in determining whether surgery is appropriate, including how bone and skin quality affect surgical planning and fixation choices Post-fracture workup to determine underlying bone health, including DEXA scans, lab testing, and nutritional assessment The team approach to care, involving primary care, endocrinology, and OB/GYN for osteoporosis treatment and risk factor reduction Prevention strategies across the lifespan, including weightbearing exercise and nutrition Host: Julie E. Adams, MD, FAAOS, orthopaedic trauma and hand surgeon, Deputy Editor of OrthoInfo Guest: Lisa Cannada, MD, FAAOS, orthopaedic trauma surgeon, Novant Health, Charlotte, NC; and Director of Faculty Integration, Medical Student Clerkship Director, and Professor, UNC School of Medicine (Charlotte Campus) For more information about fragility fractures and answers to your orthopedic questions visit www.orthoinfo.org.

En este episodio del OrthoInfo Podcast, el anfitrión Dr. Rafael Buerba, MD, MHS, FAAOS, da la bienvenida al Dr. Victor H. Hernandez, MD, MS, para responder una de las preguntas más frecuentes que los cirujanos ortopédicos escuchan de sus pacientes: ¿qué puedo esperar si me voy a someter a una cirugía de reemplazo de cadera? La conversación recorre el camino completo del paciente, desde reconocer cuándo el reemplazo de cadera es la opción correcta, hasta elegir al cirujano adecuado, hasta cómo es la vida después de la recuperación. El Dr. Hernandez explica por qué el reemplazo de cadera se considera un último recurso después de agotar los tratamientos conservadores, y describe la variedad de opciones no quirúrgicas que los pacientes deben intentar primero, entre ellas bajar de peso, terapia física, inyecciones de esteroides, ácido hialurónico, plasma rico en plaquetas y bloqueos nerviosos. El Dr. Hernandez guía a los oyentes a través de la experiencia quirúrgica moderna, incluyendo el uso creciente del abordaje anterior, el alta el mismo día de la cirugía y el manejo del dolor multimodal que reduce la dependencia de narcóticos. Aborda los temores más comunes de los pacientes en torno a la anestesia, las alergias a los metales y las restricciones postoperatorias, y comparte datos alentadores sobre la longevidad de los implantes, con los componentes de cerámica y plástico actuales con una vida esperada de 25 a 30 años. El episodio concluye con el Dr. Hernandez hablando sobre sus intereses de investigación actuales en tecnología de recuperación wearable, prevención de infecciones y educación de cirujanos, y ofreciendo orientación práctica sobre lo que los pacientes deben buscar al seleccionar un cirujano de alto volumen en reemplazo articular. Temas Clave Cubiertos en este Episodio Quién es un buen candidato para el reemplazo de cadera: Pacientes que han agotado las opciones conservadoras y cuyo dolor afecta sus actividades diarias y calidad de vida Tratamientos no quirúrgicos que intentar primero: Bajar de peso, terapia física, inyecciones de esteroides y ácido hialurónico, plasma rico en plaquetas y bloqueos nerviosos Abordajes quirúrgicos modernos: Los abordajes anterior, lateral y posterior, con las ventajas del abordaje anterior en recuperación temprana y preservación muscular Anestesia y manejo del dolor: Por qué se utiliza anestesia espinal en aproximadamente el 90 por ciento de los casos y cómo el manejo multimodal minimiza náuseas y el uso de narcóticos Alta el mismo día y recuperación: Cómo los pacientes caminan pocas horas después de la cirugía y regresan al trabajo en dos a cuatro semanas Materiales e implantes de larga duración: El abandono de los componentes metal con metal a favor de cerámica y plástico especializado, con una vida esperada del implante de 25 a 30 años Riesgos postoperatorios y señales de alerta: Infección, coágulos y caídas como los tres riesgos principales, y cuándo contactar al médico después de la cirugía Actividad después de la recuperación: Por qué la mayoría de los pacientes, incluidos los atletas, no enfrentan restricciones de actividad a largo plazo Cómo elegir un cirujano: Preguntas que los pacientes deben hacer, incluyendo volumen quirúrgico, experiencia del equipo y certificación del centro Acerca de Nuestros Invitados Anfitrión: Dr. Rafael Buerba, MD, MHS, FAAOS, Profesor Asistente de Ortopedia en la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de Arizona; Miembro del Consejo Editorial de OrthoInfo. Invitado: Dr. Victor H. Hernandez, MD, MS, Profesor del Departamento de Ortopedia en la Facultad de Medicina Miller de la Universidad de Miami; Jefe de la División de Artroplastia y Reconstrucción de Adultos del Sistema de Salud de la Universidad de Miami. Este episodio del OrthoInfo Podcast es presentado por The Bone Beat, producido por MK Quinn Media en colaboración con la American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Para más recursos sobre salud ortopédica, visita aaos.org/thebonebeat.

In this episode of the OrthoInfo podcast, adult reconstruction surgeons Matthew Deren, MD, FAAOS, and Nicholas Scarcella, MD, FAAOS, help patients understand what to expect if you have knee replacement surgery — from what makes someone a good candidate for the procedure to surgical preparation to what happens when an implant fails. Drs. Deren and Scarcella offer an honest look at the recovery process, setting realistic expectations about the challenges of the first two months, the role of physical therapy, how the new knee may feel and function, and the long road back to the activities patients love. They also discuss robotic-assisted knee replacement, which has been gaining popularity in recent years but may not be right for every patient. And they emphasize the importance of trying to manage arthritis symptoms without surgery as long as the knee isn’t causing too many problems. As Dr. Deren put it: “If people can have a lot of knee arthritis and be functioning very well, I tell them, ‘keep your own parts as long as you can.’” Key Topics Covered in this Episode What a knee replacement is — A breakdown of the implant components and how the procedure is different from what many patients imagine Who is a good candidate — The medical, physical, and lifestyle factors that determine surgical readiness Conservative treatment first — Why injections, anti-inflammatories, injections, and physical therapy can often delay or even eliminate the need for surgery The role of robotic surgery — How robotic technology improves precision and reproducibility in the OR What to expect during recovery — A week-by-week look at assistive devices, home PT, outpatient PT, and range-of-motion milestones Inpatient vs. outpatient surgery — The benefits going home the same day as the procedure, and why you might have to stay in the hospital Post-surgery pain management — The role of opioids after knee replacement, and why it’s important to stay ahead of pain once you go home Red flags to watch for — Signs of infection, blood clots, and stiffness that require immediate attention Activity and lifestyle after surgery — What patients can realistically return to, and which adjustments they may need to make, including whether it’s safe to kneel on the operated knee Knee replacement longevity — How implant technology has evolved and why protecting your replacement matters Revision surgery — Why knee replacement revision is not as simple as the original procedure, and why it’s nothing like hip replacement

Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints — and as anyone who’s ever experienced it knows, it can have a profound effect on your daily life. In this episode of the OrthoInfo podcast, spine surgeons Catherine Olinger, MD, MS, FAAOS, and Melissa Erickson, MD, MBA, FAAOS, help listeners understand what causes back pain and how you can get relief (hint: often, without surgery).  Drs. Olinger and Erickson discuss when back pain warrants a trip to the doctor and which symptoms are true red flags requiring emergency care, as well as the important distinction between acute and chronic pain. They explain the "ladder of invasiveness" approach to treatment, why they typically recommend conservative treatments like physical therapy and injections before surgery is ever considered, and how to set realistic expectations if surgery does become necessary. They also emphasize that it’s essential to tailor surgical treatment to each patient’s unique needs: Not every procedure is right for every patient, and taking the wrong approach can do more harm than good.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone who is experiencing back pain and wondering whether they should try managing it at home or see a doctor. Oh — and if you should see a doctor, should it be an orthopaedic spine surgeon or a neurosurgeon? What’s the difference? Listen to find out. Host: Catherine R. Olinger, MD, MS, FAAOS, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; OrthoInfo Spine Section Editor Guest: Melissa M. Erickson, MD, MBA, FAAOS, Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine; Medical Director, Duke University Hospital Perioperative Services; Co-Director, Combined Complex Spine Fellowship

This episode of the OrthoInfo podcast is brought to you by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES). In the episode, host Shariff K. Bishai, DO, FAAOS, sits down with shoulder and elbow surgeon Daniel Acevedo, MD, FAAOS, to help listeners understand when a torn rotator cuff might – and might not – need surgery. From understanding the difference between partial- and full-thickness rotator cuff tears to navigating the full spectrum of nonsurgical treatments, including physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and biologic implants, Drs. Bishai and Acevedo break down how surgeons evaluate each patient's unique situation and why shared decision-making is at the heart of choosing the right path forward when you have a rotator cuff injury. Key Topics Covered in this Episode: Types of Rotator Cuff Tears: The differences between degenerative, overuse, and traumatic tears, as well as partial-thickness vs. full-thickness tears — and why understanding which type a patient has matters for treatment planning. Symptomatic vs. Asymptomatic Tears: Why some patients can live with a rotator cuff tear without knowing it, and what changes when a tear becomes painful. The Natural History of Untreated Tears: Why roughly 50% of full-thickness tears increase in size over two to five years — and what that means for long-term outcomes. When To See a Doctor for Shoulder Pain: Which symptoms are concerning, why it’s a good idea to initially try home remedies like rest and ice to see if the pain goes away, and at what point you should be evaluated by a doctor. Conservative Treatment First: The role of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and the "one-and-done" approach to corticosteroid injections in managing rotator cuff symptoms. Biologic Therapies and PRP: How platelet-rich plasma and collagen implants are changing the way partial thickness tears are managed — and why Dr. Bishai has a collagen implant in his own shoulder. When It's Time for Surgery: The clinical indicators — including persistent pain, failed conservative management, and tear progression — that signal it's time to have the surgical conversation. Using Ultrasound in the Clinic: How in-office ultrasound can provide quick, valuable information without immediately ordering an MRI. Pain Patterns That Point to Diagnosis: Why shoulder pain that stays above the elbow points to the rotator cuff, and what it means when symptoms travel further down the arm, plus how to know if the symptoms are due to a shoulder or neck issue. About Our Guest: Daniel Acevedo, MD, FAAOS, is a shoulder and elbow surgeon with Los Angeles Orthopaedic Surgery Specialists in Tarzana, Calif. He is a member of the American Shoulder & Elbow Surgeons (ASES) who has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and surgical training videos focused on shoulder and elbow surgery. His special interests include biologic augmentation for rotator cuff repair and treating both competitive and recreational athletes. The OrthoInfo podcast is part of the BoneBeat Orthopaedic podcast channel, with production and editing provided by MK Quinn Media. For more conversations on orthopaedic health and patient care, please visit aaos.org/thebonebeat. Host: Shariff K. Bishai, DO, FAAOS, Shoulder & Sports Medicine Surgeon, Detroit Orthopaedic Institute; member, American Shoulder & Elbow Surgeons (ASES); member, OrthoInfo Editorial Board

This episode, hosted by sports medicine surgeon and OrthoInfo Editor-in-Chief Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS, helps listeners understand how menopause impacts women’s bone and joint health. It teaches listeners about the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause, a term used to describe common bone and joint issues — including frozen shoulder, loss of muscle mass and bone density, and early-onset osteoarthritis — related specifically to the sharp drop in estrogen during menopause.  Jocelyn Ross Wittstein, MD, FAAOS, a nationally recognized expert and sports medicine surgeon at Duke University Medical Center, provides her clinical insights and key research findings. The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration between orthopedic surgeons and women’s health professionals; proactive strategies for osteoporosis prevention (yes, you can prevent it!), including specific dietary changes and exercises; and how women can self-advocate to ensure that their symptoms are treated holistically rather than being written off as normal aging or treated as isolated structural issues.  Host: Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS,  Guest: Jocelyn Ross Wittstein, MD, FAAOS,

This episode of the OrthoInfo Podcast takes a deep dive into the complexities of foot and ankle pain, covering everything from plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis, to fractures, to congenital and degenerative conditions. Arianna Gianakos, DO, and Kamran Hamid, MD, MPH, FAAOS, both board-certified orthopedic surgeons, discuss the factors that contribute to foot pain and dysfunction — including improper footwear, overuse, and sports participation — and offer advice to help avoid serious foot problems. Drs. Gianakos and Hamid also explain when to seek professional help for foot issues, including red-flag symptoms that require urgent care, and the difference between foot and ankle surgeons and podiatrists. They offer advice about how to navigate health information on the Internet and why it’s important for patients to do their research rather than relying solely on AI summaries for answers. And they highlight some of the exciting advances in foot and ankle surgery that are helping more patients get back on their feet. Host: Arianna Gianakos, DO Guest: Kamran Hamid, MD, MPH, FAAOS

This episode explores the essentials of hip replacement surgery, providing patients with a clear understanding of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS, Editor-in-Chief of OrthoInfo, is joined by Neil Sheth, MD, FAAOS, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at Pennsylvania Hospital. Together, they answer frequently asked questions about hip replacement: who is an appropriate candidate, how technology and materials have advanced, presurgical preparation, what the surgery entails, how long it takes, and what patients can expect in terms of recovery, rehabilitation and return to activity. The discussion touches on important considerations such as post-surgery pain management (including opioids), potential complications, metal allergies, and implant failure. Dr. Sheth also talks about when to see a doctor for hip pain and where to start, given that there are different types of doctors who treat hip pain and patients may not know who to see initially. He explains what an Adult Reconstruction surgeon is and clarifies which symptoms and conditions he and his colleagues do and do not address. Host: Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOSGuest: Neil Sheth, MD, FAAOS

This episode dives deep into the evolving field of orthobiologics, a hot topic in today’s orthopedic medicine landscape. Shariff K. Bishai, DO, FAAOS, hosts a comprehensive discussion with biologics experts Scott Sigman, MD, FAAOS, and Don Buford, MD, FAAOS, exploring how biologics such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), bone marrow concentrate, and bioinductive implants are reshaping patient care for bone and joint conditions. The trio covers what biologics truly are, dispelling misconceptions about “stem cells” and highlighting the importance of evidence-based approaches over marketing hype. They walk through the latest science behind various biologic treatments, discuss the regulatory landscape, offer practical guidance for patients navigating treatment options, and share insights into the future of regenerative medicine in orthopedics. Host: Shariff K. Bishai, DO, FAAOSGuests: Don Buford, MD, FAAOS, and Scott A. Sigman, MD, FAAOS

This episode serves as an introduction to the new OrthoInfo podcast series, dedicated to answering questions about bone and joint health. Hosts Shariff K. Bishai, DO, FAAOS, a sports and shoulder surgeon in Detroit, and Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS, sports surgeon and Editor-in-Chief of OrthoInfo, delve into what an orthopaedic surgeon does and when patients should see an orthopaedic surgeon for musculoskeletal issues. The discussion delves into what it means to be an orthopedic surgeon — including the significance of board certification, fellowship training, and being a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Drs. Bishai and Mulcahey help listeners understand the difference between orthopaedic surgeons and other specialists who treat the same conditions, such as podiatrists, plastic surgeons, and neurologists. And they explain the difference between general orthopaedic surgeons and subspecialists. The conversation emphasizes the importance of seeking care from properly trained specialists. It encourages patients to be self-advocates, to ask questions or even seek second opinions if they don’t feel comfortable with both their care plan and their doctor. Drs. Bishai and Mulcahey also reflect on the value of the physician–patient relationship, underscoring the collaborative and ongoing nature of orthopedic care, including the critical role of physical therapy. They talk about what being an orthopaedic surgeon means and why caring for patients is a 24/7 job for them. Co-hosts: Shariff K. Bishai, DO, FAAOS, and Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS