Category Archives: General Ortho

General Ortho

3 Ways To Make Your WFH Space Orthopedic Health Approved

Many of us find ourselves with the opportunity to be in our WFH space more than ever before. Since the presence of the pandemic, companies have given people the freedom to choose or not decide to reopen their offices. This is considered a great change for many in the workforce and can contribute to better orthopedic health if handled correctly. 

Making A WFH Space Orthopedic Health Approved 

At Paris Orthopedics, we have seen how the common workplace can contribute to back pain, neck pain, and posture problems; you name it. However, when you are working from home, you have the freedom to choose your workstation. Use these steps to create a WFH space that your orthopedic doctor would approve of!  

Focus On The Desk

The desk is one of the most useful parts of constructing a WFH space that keeps your body stable. Sometimes people working from home are not using a standard “desk” as their space. Whether you are working at your kitchen table, on the couch, or even in your bed, there are ways to work towards finding a fit that also keeps your spine in a good position. 

While deciding the best option, consider the idea that your feet, thighs, and knees should fit comfortably under the workspace. For your upper half, the height of your workspace should leave your computer at elbow height. You may be in a position where the desk you are working at is adjustable to meet these needs; however, if it is not, you can use different methods around the home to make it the correct height for your body. 

Consider The Ideal Computer Setup

Once you have decided on the correct desk, you can figure out the best computer setup. Most people these days are operating off of a laptop, with mobile taking the lead at 55% of the market while desktop devices take up 42% as of January 2022. However, a laptop computer is not the best choice for orthopedic health. 

Ideally, the monitor itself should be located slightly below your eye level, but your neck should not bend to see the middle of the screen. It should be arm’s length away from you, letting you see the entire screen at once instead of looking from side to side. From there, it also depends on the number of monitors you use. If you have multiple monitors, the placement depends on whether they are being used equally or if one is more necessary than the other. Even if you are using a laptop computer, the same steps should be taken to have the correct distance and height compared to yourself. 

Always Support Your Spine

Your WFH space chair is one of the leading influencers of your spine’s natural curve. Most people believe that the support of a spine means straight; however, the natural structure of the spine is actually more of an “s” shape. To meet this, you should keep your feet on the floor. Once you have established that, your bottom should be even, not tilted in either direction. Moving up, the knees should be in line with your hips. If you sit in a chair with a straight back, you can roll something up or use a pillow to place it between your back and the chair to get the “S” shape. 

 

While staying in the comfort of your home for the workday, make it a great space for your health. These simple changes can impact your overall quality of life. Are you looking for methods that apply to your specific case? Contact our team today to discuss which changes align with the orthopedic issues you are facing. Check out our website or give us a call for more information. 

General Ortho

5 New Years’ Resolutions For Your Orthopedic Health

The end of the year is always the time to decide how you will spend the new one. This year, we advise that a few of your resolutions center on orthopedic health. Whether you have struggled with your orthopedic health or simply want to avoid issues, these tips can help you move forward productively. By creating these plans now, you will be well on your way to a healthy 2023 before it even arrives. 

At Paris Orthopedics, we are here for you during your health journey. Our goal is to give you the information and resources to give you the best year for your orthopedic health. While incorporating these ideas, consider planning an appointment to see one of our doctors in the new year. 

New Years’ Resolutions For Orthopedic Health

Bring More Vitamin D Into Your Diet 

Vitamin D can play an influential role in your orthopedic health. You can start anticipating results by making the new year a time for more of it. Vitamin D helps the body absorb and retain calcium and phosphorus. Both are critical components of building bones, one of the most critical aspects of your orthopedic health. 

The best sources of Vitamin D are 

  • Cod liver oil 
  • Salmon 
  • Swordfish
  • Tuna fish
  • Sardines
  • Beef liver
  • Egg yolk
  • Orange juice fortified with Vitamin D

Pay Attention To New Aches and Pains

While we hope the new year is mostly full of strength and growth. You may notice aches and pains that had not been there before. The beginning of the year is a great time to get an appointment on the books with your orthopedic doctor. There is no reason to continue feeling the pain if you can confront the problem at the start. 

Try Out New Exercise Methods

Everyone tries to bring in new physical activity at the start of the year, but make it one that you want to stick around! You may have a routine that you already enjoy. That is a fine reason to stick with what works. However, it is the perfect time to try something new if you have been struggling to enjoy your workout. You can discuss what new methods are the best fit for your current orthopedic issues. 

Drink More Water

The whole year is an opportunity to drink more water, but this is a great idea to get started in the new year. This could mean finding a water bottle that makes you want to drink more water or even making it a challenge for yourself. Drinking more water benefits more than just your orthopedic health; however, it does play a very important role. Water helps to keep your joints hydrated. When your body faces dehydration, it pulls water from the cartilage, causing problems for your joints overall. 

Get More Sleep

We could all benefit from more sleep in our lives. Many orthopedic adjustments can help your body feel better as you sleep. Sometimes, how you sleep causes orthopedic pain heightened at night due to the body’s positioning. On top of changing your sleeping position, changes such as staying off of technology devices and creating a comfortable sleep environment can all contribute to a night of better sleep.  

These New Year’s resolutions are great because they are obtainable! Your orthopedic health is here for the taking, and it does not have to mean crazy changes to your routine. We are here to help you along the way. Are you interested in bringing these resolutions into your life? Our Paris Orthopedics team can formulate goals centered around your health journey. Check out our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000 for more information.

General Ortho

The Basics of Hip Flexor Strains/Tears

Have you been feeling a pain in your hip that just simply will not go away? When the hip flexor is strained, that means these muscles are either stretched or torn (strains/tears). The result is a pain in many activities throughout the day, making it almost impossible to live comfortably. You may not even realize this is what you are suffering from before it is to the point of being unbearable. 

Once you start to think you may have a hip flexor strain, it is time to take a trip to the orthopedic doctor. At Paris Orthopedics, we have encountered many patients with issues presenting in the hip flexor. With this being the case, we know the basics that can help others find a solution to the problem in their own life.  

Learning More About Hip Flexor Strains/Tears 

Types Of Hip Flexor Strains/Tears 

There are three common types of hip flexor tears to consider. They are often considered different grades. By understanding each of these, you can start considering what may be happening in your situation. 

Grade 1: There are minor tears that cause only a few damaged muscle fibers 

Grade 2: Moderate amount of damaged muscle fibers that can cause a loss of function

Grade 3: Muscle fibers tear entirely and may result in the inability to walk without a limp

Once it is determined by your doctor that there is a muscle tear, they can make the call on the grade. The grade of the tear can help to determine your treatment plan. 

What Causes These Strains/Tears? 

Many activities and movements can result in a hip flexor strain. This is often dependent on the lifestyle choices an individual is participating in throughout the day. Commonly, this stems from overuse of the muscle in an activity that the person is often doing. While there are many activities that can cause it, people who participate in sports such as dancing, cycling, soccer, and running.  

What Are The Signs and Symptoms? 

You may think of the apparent signs and symptoms of hip flexor strains/tears, but there are many others to consider. The most common symptom associated with this is sudden hip pain. This can start by ranging from mild to intense feelings in the hip. 

From here, you may also begin to experience pain when lifting the leg to the chest or trying to stretch the hip muscles. There may also be bruising, swelling, and tenderness. When you start to feel these symptoms for more than 10 days, that is the time to start talking to your doctor about the possibility of a hip flexor muscle strain/tear. 

How Can This Be Treated? 

Your orthopedic doctor can help you decide the best treatment plan for your hip flexor strains/tears. Often, the tears can be treated with home remedies. These may include the following: 

  • Compression Wraps
  • Rest 
  • Ice Pack
  • Heat Pack 
  • Pain Medication 

However, some cases are not resolved by these methods and may require physical therapy. That would include the intention of strengthening the hip flexor muscles over time. In severe cases, your orthopedic doctor may determine that surgery is necessary. 

Don’t live your life in a world of pain with a hip flexor strain. Once you start to notice these signs and symptoms in your life, take the time to find the solution that fits your lifestyle. Sometimes your body needs some rest to get back to 100%. At Paris Orthopedics, we are here to help you find ways to alleviate pain without letting the condition take over your life. Are you interested in coming in for a consultation about hip flexor strains/tears. Find out more on our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000 for more information. 

General Ortho

3 Of The Most Common Orthopedic Conditions In Women

Are you constantly feeling aches and pains in your body, even when the activity is not considered strenuous? Most people face orthopedic issues during their life. However, there are common orthopedic conditions in women that seem to occur more often than in men. By identifying and understanding these conditions, you can aim to prevent them in your own life or treat them if you think they are something you are suffering from. 

At Paris Orthopedics, we have encountered problems in various people and have gotten to further understand where patterns exist. One of those being the common orthopedic conditions in women. Today, we give you the insight to take more control of your orthopedic journey. Any questions you may have along the way can be answered by our talented team. 

Learning About The Most Common Orthopedic Conditions In Women 

Osteoporosis and Injuries To The Bone

Women often face problems concerning bone and bone density. As these problems progress, they can cause further issues for a woman overall. Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle. This happens when the creation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of old bone. This is most common in women who have experienced menopause. 

Once this condition progresses, there is concern about breaking or fracturing bones easier than ever before. An orthopedic doctor can help you find ways to increase bone density through lifestyle changes in terms of diet and exercise. 

ACL Tears In The Knee and Ankle

An ACL tear occurs when the anterior cruciate ligament, located in the knee and connecting to the top of the lower leg bone to the bottom of the thighbone, tears. This commonly happens during sports that involve cutting or pivoting, such as football, soccer, or basketball. Overall, female athletes are more likely to experience ACL tears than their male counterparts. 

While one cause has not been identified, it is often associated with differences in bone anatomy, differences in pelvic and lower leg alignment, and even muscle strength. Women also tend to have wider hips than men and narrower space in the knee for the ACL to move. As these things cannot be controlled, it is more important to recognize them and act accordingly rather than as if a tear would not happen. 

Sprained Ankles 

Women are almost twice as likely to experience a sprained ankle as men. This is often thought to be associated with the stabilizing strategies that a woman uses versus a man. There are many reasons why this is seen, sometimes even equated to the amount women wear high heels compared to men. There is often less muscle mass to protect these areas of tendons and ligaments. 

Sprained ankles can vary in intensity, but it is often something that can be treated easily by an orthopedic doctor. It may mean varying your activities or being more careful during the activity that seems to cause these problems. There are many ways a doctor may choose to treat it, and it comes down to understanding your specific case. 


Women must note orthopedic conditions to see which body parts they can strengthen to avoid the problems. If there are certain areas in which you have already felt weakness that is also associated with the problems stated above, it may be time to find some long-term solutions. Are you a woman looking to know more about your orthopedic health? Our team at Paris Orthopedics is here to help you find those answers. Check out our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000 for more information.

General Ortho

6 Best Everyday Practices For Orthopedic Health

Wellness is something that should be a part of anyone’s everyday life. Oftentimes, people do not consider their orthopedic health in this category. However, simple everyday practices can elevate your orthopedic health while contributing positively to other areas of the body. You can see real results in how your body feels with just a few switches. 

Everyday Practices For Orthopedic Health

At Paris Orthopedics, we want to contribute to your success throughout your life, not only when you face an orthopedic issue. With these practices, you can prevent injury and feel more able to do the activities and exercise you want. 

Implement A Healthy Diet 

Diet can impact your health in so many ways. By eating foods that are good for your bones, muscles, and joints, you can alter the way your body feels while also strengthening your orthopedic areas as well. Everyone’s ideal diet may not be the same. That is why it is also important to find out what works best for you. Leafy greens, Omega-3, dairy, fruits, and nuts are just a few examples of great products to incorporate into your diet. 

Maintain A Healthy Weight 

Your weight can play a large role in the changes that your body experiences. At a healthy weight for your body, it is distributed in an effective way that can get you moving without putting too much pressure on your joints and in turn, weakening your muscles as well. This is something to talk to your doctor about to see what the ideal place for you to be is. 

Bring Movement Into Your Day

Get up and get moving! Adding any movement to your day can improve your orthopedic health. Something as simple as a daily walk or getting moving during a work day can help. Your body does not do well under a low movement life. It needs a change to utilize the various muscles and energy to keep performing to the best of your ability. 

Consider Low Impact Exercises 

If you have been struggling to find exercise routines that don’t hurt your body, it may be time to try low-impact options. You may think that low-impact exercises are not as effective for the fitness results you want, but this is not the case. They are softer on joints while also providing great workouts. One of the most popular options is swimming. However, walks, rowing, biking, and skating are all great options that won’t put wear and tear on your body. 

Focus On Your Core Strength

Your core strength is so important to the rest of your body’s health. The strength of your core can contribute to better balance and support a healthy spine. When your posture and balance are doing well, you can feel the results throughout the way you move. 

There are so many types of exercise to strengthen your core. The Mayo Clinic provides an entire list so that you can find the ones that appeal best to your lifestyle. Often, they are easy options to incorporate into your current work.

Talk To An Orthopedic Doctor 

Sometimes, something you haven’t considered a big issue may be one. Don’t sacrifice your health further by not taking the time to talk to someone about your concerns. 

It is never too late to bring new everyday practices into your life to enhance orthopedic health. While some of these may not be for you, even just a few adjustments can make a big change. Are you looking for even more ideas to bring into your lifestyle? Paris Orthopedics is here to help. Check out our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000 for more information. 

General Ortho

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Vs. Arthritis: What Is The Difference?

Many orthopedic conditions commonly get mixed up. When you have pain in your hands, the prospect could be confused by carpal tunnel syndrome vs. arthritis. The two conditions can cause pain but also have many different characteristics. The differences are what can help you diagnose your condition. If you are having trouble making the connection, it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs. Arthritis

At Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, we have encountered many conditions that require a proper diagnosis to treat. Carpal tunnel syndrome vs. arthritis is a fine distinction to make. This can allow you to distinguish the pain before entering the doctor’s office. 

What is carpal tunnel syndrome? 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a result of pressure on the median nerve. According to the Mayo Clinic, the carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments on the side of the hand that contains the palm. The compression of the median nerve in this passageway causes numbness and weakness in the arm. Often, carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by health problems or even a motion that repeatedly uses that part of the hand. A doctor often only confronts this when the pain reaches a point that messes with normal activities and possibly even sleeping. 

What is arthritis? 

Arthritis is when the joints in the body are swollen or tender. This is considered one of the most common orthopedic issues that patients can face in their lifetime. Many types of arthritis affect different areas of the body. While the most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, many people also suffer from the other options. The symptoms of arthritis present themselves as pain, decreased range of motion, redness, stiffness, and instances of swelling. Arthritis faces causes such as overuse of the joint, family history, injuries, and even as a product of aging. 

How are the two similar? 

Carpal tunnel syndrome vs. arthritis does come with a few similarities. Both can cause weakness and swelling in the hand if that is the area the condition is affecting. When arthritis is in someone’s hand, just as carpal tunnel syndrome is, this is when the two are most likely confused. They are both causing pain to an area, making it difficult to determine causality. Both may require anti-inflammatory medication to begin treatment. Eventually, patients with these conditions may also need rehabilitation to get the hand back to full motion. 

 

How are the two different? 

On the other hand, the differences between the two are the location in the body of the diagnosis can be made. The first significant difference is that arthritis presents itself in far more areas than just the hand. However, carpal tunnel syndrome only occurs in the carpal tunnel. 

 

Apart from the areas in which the conditions can affect, carpal tunnel syndrome results from nerve issues, while arthritis problems stem from inflammation of joints. With these differences, carpal tunnel syndrome vs. arthritis treatment is also very different. Both can benefit from anti-inflammatory medication, but surgery often relieves carpal tunnel syndrome. However, except for a joint replacement, arthritis is not typically treated with surgery.    


Carpal tunnel syndrome vs. arthritis is an interesting relationship to analyze. Some similarities are worth noting, but the differences help orthopedic surgeons determine a patient’s problem. Do you think you are suffering from one of these two conditions? It may be time to schedule a consultation with one of the orthopedic surgeons here at Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Check out our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000 for more information.

General Ortho

Golfer’s Elbow: What Is It And How Do I Treat It?

Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a form of tendonitis. Its name stems from the fact that the condition is commonly associated with the movement included in swinging a golf club. However, it is not only a condition that affects golfers.  

Understanding Golfer’s Elbow

There is no reason to live with constant pain in any area of the body. At Paris Orthopedics, we can ensure that you receive a treatment plan that works to relieve the discomfort. First, we want to ensure you know what the condition golfer’s elbow is by answering some of the most commonly asked questions. 

What causes golfer’s elbow?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, golfer’s elbow is commonly caused by repeatedly using your wrist and arm to bend, grasp or twist things. This continuous action over time causes the tendons in the arm and elbow to have mini tears that lead to pain in the area.  

Who usually suffers from golfer’s elbow? 

As seen in the cause, those who usually suffer from golfer’s elbow are those who partake in activities that require those types of movements. While this can be people who frequently play golf, that is not the only demographic that is affected. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, people that participate in racket sports, throwing sports, weight training, and repetitive occupational movements are also often affected by this condition. 

What are the symptoms? 

The symptoms of golfer’s elbow are most frequently pain in the area between the wrist and elbow. This can lead to further pain in other areas of the body as the strain continues. You may also begin to notice weakness, pain, tingling, and stiffness in the tendons as well.  

How is it diagnosed?

Golfer’s elbow is diagnosed through the initial pain in a certain area of the arm. From here, the doctor is able to determine if this is golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis. Once the doctor has determined this, they can create a course of treatment that can bring down your pain and discomfort. It is important to maintain these suggestions as it will only create large change if you stay consistent. 

If your elbow beings to look deformed, can’t bend, or is hot and inflamed, this means that it is time to see a doctor soon. It could get worse and bring more pain if you do not seek out medical attention.  

How is it treated?

The treatment of golfer’s elbow can present itself in a few different ways. The first step is to give your arm a break. You may think this means a short amount of time, but doctors commonly advise six weeks off before resuming the normal activities or sports. 

Can I prevent it beforehand?

There are preventative measures for golfer’s elbow. Ensuring that this muscle is properly warmed up is the first step to preventative measures. This can give the muscle a chance to act and strengthen rather than overworking it with repetitive movements. Along with that, you can, if possible, decrease the amount of that movement that is occurring. 

Is there anything else I need to know?

With this information, you can continue to participate in your activities in a way that keeps them from causing more harm. 


Make the pain of golfer’s elbow a thing of the past by understanding it. There are so many ways to find treatment and prevention to ensure you can go about your favorite activities without pain. Are you struggling with discomfort in your arm, specifically your elbow? It could be time to make an appointment at Paris Orthopedics to find the correct treatment plan for you. Check out our website or give us a call at (903)  737-0000 for more information.

General Ortho

8 Types Of Arthritis And What Differentiates Them

Arthritis is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in patients. However, what most people do not realize is how many different types of arthritis there are. To diagnose and treat your arthritis, it is important to understand the various types and be able to distinguish between them. This can make it easier to find a solution. 

Different Types Of Arthritis 

Once you are able to identify the different types of arthritis, you will be able to find the correct treatment. Then, this is a useful distinction to be able to discuss with the orthopedic doctor treating your condition. At Paris Orthopedics, we are dedicated to helping relieve your pain and discomfort by identifying the true cause with accuracy. 

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. The Mayo Clinic details this condition as when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. It often affects the joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Moreover, the symptoms of this particular type can be managed, but the joint damage cannot be repaired. These symptoms are pain, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, grating sensation, bone spurs, and swelling. 

Gout

Gout is a more complex form of arthritis. This is detailed as sudden attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or multiple joints, often found in the big toe. For example, the feeling is often found as a sense that one’s big toe is on fire. Here, the symptoms are intense joint pain, lingering discomfort, inflammation and redness, and limited range of motion. 

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

As is sensed in the title, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the type often found in children under the age of 16. This is detailed as persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The symptoms are known to last for months or even years. Here, the symptoms are pain, swelling, stiffness, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rash. This type of arthritis can present itself in many different joints and is determined by identifying the symptoms that the child is exhibiting. Often, forms of this arthritis are seen in girls. 

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis commonly found in those who are also diagnosed with psoriasis. The National Psoriasis Foundation defines psoriasis as an immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the body. Here, the main symptoms one may encounter are joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. This must also be paired with the condition of psoriasis to diagnose this type of arthritis. There is no cure for this particular type of arthritis. 

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis is another type of arthritis to consider. This is caused by an infection in another part of the body. It is often in the intestines, genitals, or urinary tract. This is not a common type of arthritis. After the infection, this arthritis presents itself 1 to 4 weeks later. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease. It does not always just impact your joints. It can spread to other body systems from the skin to even the blood vessels. Your immune system is mistakenly attacking itself. Here, the symptoms are tender warm, swollen joints, joint stiffness, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. 

Septic Arthritis

Septic arthritis is another type that is less common but important to understand. For example, this is a painful infection in a joint caused by germs traveling through the bloodstream in another section of the body. Symptoms of this particular type are extreme discomfort and difficulty using the affected joint.


Finally, once one is able to identify the different types of arthritis, it is easier to diagnose the condition. While an orthopedic doctor would be able to identify it as well, it can make the process easier if the patient has some idea of it before even making an appointment. Are you suffering from one of the types of arthritis? Paris Orthopedics is here to provide diagnosis and treatment for your condition. Check out our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000.

General Ortho

Your Guide to Crutches and Canes

Crutches and canes are a normal part of the orthopedic recovery process. No matter if you’ve recently been injured or have undergone surgery, crutches and canes can help expedite the healing process and keep you safe. Adjusting to a walking aid can be challenging at first, but by understanding the proper form and taking steps to prepare yourself, you can learn to get around with ease. To help keep you safe and comfortable during your recovery, we’ve created a guide to using crutches and canes:

Get Prepared

If you have a surgery or operation schedule, use the days leading up to your procedure to prepare your home and surroundings. Declutter and remove anything that might obstruct your path when moving about your home. This may even include moving around furniture to give yourself wider pathways. Remove any cords, area rugs, or mats that could cause you to lose your balance. You may also want to take some time to purchase items that make moving around your home safer and more accessible. Extra lighting, non-slip bathmats, and a shower chair can all come in handy during your recovery. Taking steps to prepare yourself for getting around using crutches or canes can save you a lot of time and frustration and ultimately keep you safe.

Crutches

Crutches are used to help you move around without putting weight on your foot or leg. They are most commonly used following surgery or after an injury. To properly move around on crutches, it’s essential to make sure your crutches are adjusted to fit your body. When standing upright, the top of the crutches should only be one or two inches below your armpit, and the handgrips should be in line with the top of your hip. 

When walking with crutches, first put the crutches about a foot in front of you, then shift your weight in the crutches to bring your body forward, landing on your healthy foot and leg. It’s important to put your weight into your hands on the handgrips rather than putting all of your weight into your armpits, as this can cause discomfort and potential nerve damage. Always look ahead of you, not down at your feet, as you move around. 

Sitting, standing, and climbing stairs can be challenging at first, so we recommend you have someone there to assist you in the beginning. Take your time and move slowly to avoid a fall or further damage to your injured foot or leg.

Canes

Canes are used when people are undergoing minor problems with balance and stability. Canes can also be helpful for those in physical therapy, who are injured, or for those experiencing physical pain. Canes can allow you to walk more comfortably and safely and promote more independent living for older adults. To use a cane, first make sure that the cane is the right size for you. A properly sized cane should reach your wrist when you’re standing straight up. Avoid locking up your arm by keeping your elbow slightly bent when you press down on your cane. Hold your cane in the opposite hand of the leg that needs support. For example, if you have weakness or instability in your left leg, hold your cane in your right hand.

Move the cane forward about a stride in front of you as your compromised leg moves with it, then use the cane to stabilize as you finish your stride with your healthy leg. When climbing stairs, lead with your good leg, and always make sure to use a handrail if it’s available. 

Consult an Orthopedic Specialist

The team at Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is dedicated to helping our patients recover from a wide range of orthopedic conditions. Our services include general orthopedic medicine, joint replacement, sports injury treatment, and osteoporosis treatments at our bone health clinic. If you have any questions about the recovery process or need guidance on the use of crutches and canes following a procedure, please reach out to us. If you are experiencing chronic pain of any kind, call (903) 737-0000 to make an appointment.

General Ortho

What is Causing Your Lower Back Pain?

Lower back pain is one of the most commonly complained-about ailments, with around four out of every five reporting this pain at some point in their lives. The lower back, also known as the lumbar spine, is a structure of interconnecting bones, joints, nerves, ligaments, and muscles that all work together. The lower back provides support, strength, and flexibility and ultimately helps keep us upright. Still, due to the complex nature of our lumbar spine, it can be susceptible to injury and pain. In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at potential causes of your lower back pain and sharing viable solutions.

Muscle and Ligament Strains

Lower back pain is often a result of muscle or ligament strain or sprains that can occur suddenly or develop slowly over time. A muscle strain happens when the muscle is stretched too far, which causes a tear. A muscle sprain occurs when over-stretching and tearing cause damage to the ligaments, which help connect the bones. Some of the most common causes of lower back sprains and strains include:

  • Lifting a heavy object or lifting with improper form, like twisting the spine while lifting
  • Sudden movements that put too much pressure on the lower back, such as an accident, or a fall
  • Repeating a specific movement over a prolonged period of time
  • Poor posture
  • Sports injuries, especially high-impact sports like football or sports that require twisting

Chronic Back Pain Conditions

The body’s natural healing process for lower back injuries can take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks. When pain in the lower back persists for longer than three months, the pain can be classified as chronic and may involve more issues than just a sprain or a strain. Causes of chronic back pain may include:

  • Problems with discs: Lumbar degenerative disc disease and lumbar herniated disc are two different conditions that may lead to herniation or inflammation
  • Problems with joints: Facet joint dysfunction, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and osteoarthritis all target the joints, leading to lower back pain
  • Fractures: Trauma may cause acute fractures or dislocations that lead to pain, and osteoporosis may even lead to a compression fracture over time

Lower Back Pain Treatment Options

Early treatment options for back pain align with early treatment recommendations for other sports injuries. The first course of action typically calls for rest, ice and heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Cold packs and pain relievers both work to reduce inflammation, while hot water bottles and heating pads improve blood flow. Depending on the cause of your lower back pain, light stretching can also be therapeutic, but it’s important to consult a doctor to determine the root cause of the issue first.

If back pain does not improve over time, then you may require additional treatments. At Paris Orthopedic Specialists, we believe in exhausting all non-surgical treatments whenever possible, so if you are experiencing lower back pain, physical therapy, back braces, and steroid injections may be able to help. While injections and prescription-strength pain relievers may temporarily reduce pain, physical therapy can help identify and treat the underlying cause of the pain. If you have been experiencing chronic back pain, contact a provider at Paris Orthopedics to learn more about suitable treatment options.  

Consult an Orthopedic Specialist

The team at Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is dedicated to helping our patients recover from a wide range of orthopedic conditions. Our services include general orthopedic medicine, joint replacement, sports injury treatment, and osteoporosis treatments at our bone health clinic. If you are experiencing chronic pain of any kind, call (903) 737-0000 to make an appointment.