Tag Archives: injury prevention

Injury Prevention

Finding the Perfect Fit: Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Footwear for Different Sports

When it comes to sports and physical activity, having the right footwear is crucial for both performance and injury prevention. Ill-fitting or inappropriate shoes can lead to a range of problems, from blisters and foot pain to more severe injuries such as ankle sprains, shin splints, and even stress fractures. In this blog post, we’ll provide expert advice on how to choose the right footwear for various sports, ensuring you have the best possible support and comfort during your activities.

 

The Importance of Proper Footwear

Before we dive into sport-specific recommendations, it’s essential to understand why proper footwear is so important. Your feet are the foundation of your body, and they bear the brunt of the impact during any physical activity. Wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate cushioning, support, and stability can lead to excessive stress on your feet, ankles, knees, and even your hips and lower back.

 

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting footwear for sports, there are several key factors to keep in mind:

 

Sport-Specific Design:

Different sports place unique demands on your feet and require specialized features in your shoes. For example, running shoes prioritize cushioning and shock absorption, while court shoes for sports like tennis or basketball emphasize lateral support and traction.

 

Foot Type and Gait: 

Your individual foot type (e.g., flat feet, high arches) and gait pattern (how your foot strikes the ground) can influence the type of shoe that works best for you. Consulting with a podiatrist or getting a professional gait analysis can help you find the perfect fit.

 

Fit and Comfort: 

Shoes should feel comfortable right out of the box, with enough room for your toes to wiggle and no areas of excessive tightness or rubbing. The heel should fit snugly without slipping, and the midfoot should provide ample support.

 

Terrain and Playing Surface:

Consider the surface you’ll be playing on, whether it’s a hardwood court, grass field, or trail. Different surfaces require different levels of traction, cushioning, and support.

 

Sport-Specific Recommendations

Now, let’s dive into some specific recommendations for various sports:

 

Running/Jogging:

Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the midsole and heel to absorb impact. Consider your foot type and gait pattern when selecting the level of stability and motion control you need.

 

Tennis/Basketball: 

Court shoes should provide excellent lateral support and traction to accommodate the quick stops, starts, and side-to-side movements these sports demand. Look for shoes with reinforced toe boxes and durable outsoles.

 

Soccer/Football: 

Cleats or turf shoes with studs or nubs on the outsole are essential for maintaining traction on grass or artificial turf fields. Look for shoes with ample ankle support and cushioning to prevent injuries during high-impact plays.

 

Hiking/Trail Running: 

Trail shoes should have aggressive tread patterns for grip on uneven terrain, as well as ample toe protection and water resistance. Look for shoes with rock plates or reinforced midsoles to protect your feet from sharp objects on the trail.

 

Cross-Training/Gym: 

For versatile activities like cross-training or gym workouts, look for shoes with a balance of cushioning, support, and flexibility. Consider shoes with a slightly wider toe box to accommodate lateral movements.

 

Remember, it’s always a good idea to try on shoes and walk or jog around the store to ensure a proper fit. Don’t hesitate to consult with a professional or seek advice from experienced athletes or coaches in your sport.

 

Investing in the right footwear for your chosen sport can make a significant difference in your performance, comfort, and injury prevention. By considering the specific demands of your activity, your individual foot type and gait pattern, and the terrain or playing surface, you can find the perfect shoes to support your athletic endeavors. Don’t compromise on footwear – your feet will thank you for it!

General Ortho

Occupational Therapy Versus Physical Therapy: What’s The Difference?

 

Two professions often mentioned in the same breath are occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT). While both fields aim to improve individuals’ quality of life and functional ability, they do so through different lenses and approaches. 

Occupational Therapy Versus Physical Therapy

Understanding the nuances between occupational therapy and physical therapy can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and clarify misconceptions. Here at Paris Orthopedics, we’re here to help you learn the differences between these two disciplines.

Occupational Therapy: Enabling Meaningful Engagement

Occupational therapy revolves around helping individuals of all ages participate in meaningful activities or occupations. These occupations encompass various aspects of daily life, including self-care, productivity, and leisure. The primary goal of occupational therapists is to enhance individuals’ ability to perform these activities independently or with minimal assistance. A minimum of a master’s degree (e.g., Master of Occupational Therapy or Doctor of Occupational Therapy program) and state licensure is required to become an OT.

One distinguishing aspect of occupational therapy is its holistic approach. Therapists evaluate not only physical abilities but also cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors that influence a person’s engagement in activities. For example, an occupational therapist might work with a stroke survivor to regain motor skills necessary for dressing themselves while also addressing cognitive deficits affecting their ability to plan and sequence tasks.

Furthermore, occupational therapy often involves adapting environments or recommending assistive devices to facilitate participation in daily activities. This could range from installing grab bars in a bathroom to suggesting modifications in a workplace to prevent injuries or discomfort.

Physical Therapy: Restoring Movement & Function

Physical therapy, on the other hand, focuses primarily on restoring movement and function in individuals with physical impairments or disabilities. Physical therapists address issues related to mobility, strength, balance, and pain management. Their interventions aim to improve range of motion, build muscle strength, and enhance overall physical function. To be eligible to sit for the national exam, you need to graduate from an accredited higher educational institution with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. 

Physical therapy is commonly associated with rehabilitation following injuries, surgeries, or illnesses. Whether it’s helping someone recover from a sports injury, managing chronic pain, or assisting with mobility challenges due to conditions like arthritis or Parkinson’s disease, physical therapists employ various techniques to promote healing and restore function.

While occupational therapy may encompass physical rehabilitation as part of its interventions, physical therapists specialize in addressing the physical aspects of movement and function. Their focus is primarily on the body’s biomechanics and musculoskeletal system, working to optimize physical performance and prevent further injury.

Key Differences And Overlaps

While OT and PT have distinct focuses and approaches, there are areas where their roles intersect. Both professions collaborate closely in healthcare settings to provide comprehensive care to individuals with diverse needs. For instance, a patient recovering from a traumatic brain injury might receive physical therapy to improve balance and mobility while also working with an occupational therapist to regain the cognitive skills necessary for returning to work or managing daily tasks. 

Both occupational therapy and physical therapy aim to increase patient independence through motor skills, hand-eye coordination, motor planning, coordination, and balance. 

 

In essence, while occupational therapy emphasizes meaningful engagement in activities and addresses a broad spectrum of factors influencing function, physical therapy zeroes in on restoring physical movement and function through targeted interventions. At Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, no injury is too large or too small. We treat everything from sprains to joint replacements. Don’t suffer any longer, we are here to help. Check out our website or contact us at (903) 737-0000.

General Ortho

15 Tips To Prepare For An Orthopedic Surgery

Preparing for orthopedic surgery can be a significant event in your life, and it’s essential to approach it with careful planning and diligence. Whether you’re undergoing a joint replacement, spinal surgery, or any other orthopedic procedure, proper preparation can enhance your overall experience and contribute to a successful outcome. 

At Paris Orthopedics, we ensure you have a comfortable experience, even with surgery. Here are some valuable tips to help you prepare for orthopedic surgery. 

Choose the Right Surgeon

Research and select an experienced orthopedic surgeon specializing in the specific procedure you need. Look for a hospital with a good reputation for orthopedic care and a track record of successful surgeries. This can give you peace of mind going into the surgery, knowing you are working with a surgeon you can trust. 

Understand the Procedure

Take the time to understand the surgery you’ll be undergoing thoroughly. Ask your surgeon about the procedure, potential risks, expected outcomes, and the recovery process. Having a clear understanding will alleviate anxiety and help you make informed decisions.

Maintain Open Communication

Keep an open line of communication with your surgeon and healthcare team. Inform them about any medical conditions, allergies, medications, or supplements you are taking. Honest communication is vital to ensure your safety during surgery.

Pre-operative Testing 

Your surgeon may order specific pre-operative tests to assess your overall health and identify any potential risks. These tests may include blood work, X-rays, and an electrocardiogram (ECG). Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding these tests.

Get in Good Physical Shape

Before surgery, improve your physical fitness to the best of your ability. Engage in exercises your surgeon approves of, focusing on strengthening the muscles around the surgical site. This can aid in your post-operative recovery.

Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol 

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake at least several weeks before the surgery. There are many resources for you to learn more about the effects of smoking and alcohol on the body, especially during recovery. 

Adjust Medications

Some medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before surgery. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines regarding medication management.

Arrange Support 

Plan for support during your recovery period. Arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you on the day of surgery and help you during the initial post-operative period.

Prepare Your Home 

Make your home post-surgery friendly. Create a comfortable recovery space with easy access to essential items. Consider installing grab bars, removing trip hazards, and ensuring everything is within reach.

Follow Pre-Operative Fasting Instructions

Your surgeon will likely provide fasting instructions before surgery. Follow these guidelines carefully to avoid complications during the procedure.

Prepare for Post-Operative Care 

Discuss the post-operative care plan with your surgeon. Understand what to expect during the recovery period and how long it will take to resume daily activities.

Plan Transportation

Arrange for transportation to and from the hospital on the day of surgery. You won’t be able to drive immediately after the procedure.

Practice Relaxation Techniques 

Reducing anxiety before surgery can be beneficial. Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to help manage stress.

Follow Pre-Operative Hygiene 

Shower with an antibacterial soap the night before and the morning of the surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Your doctor will provide plenty of information regarding post-operative care, including how to stay clean and keep the surgical area clean. 

Pack Thoughtfully

If you need to stay overnight in the hospital, pack essential items like comfortable clothing, toiletries, and any personal items to help you feel more at ease. This can be helpful to do days prior to the surgery to ensure you do not forget anything.  

Work With Paris Orthopedics 

Following these tips can prepare you physically and mentally for your orthopedic surgery. Remember to maintain a positive outlook and trust your medical team’s expertise, contributing to a smoother recovery process. Your active participation in the preparation process will empower you to take charge of your health and enhance your overall surgical experience. Do you have questions about orthopedic surgery? Our team can help! Contact Paris Orthopedics for more information

Injury Prevention

5 Basics of ACL Health and Injury

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the knee joint. It is crucial in providing stability and preventing excessive forward movement of the tibia (shinbone) relative to the femur (thighbone). ACL health and injuries are common, especially in sports involving sudden stops, direction changes, or jumping. 

Understanding the basics of ACL health and injury can help individuals recognize the importance of prevention and seek appropriate treatment. At Paris Orthopedics, we aim to give you the information you need to stay healthy and avoid injury. 

Basics of ACL Health and Injury

What Is The ACL?

The ACL is a strong band of connective tissue deep within the knee joint. It connects the femur to the tibia and works with other ligaments, muscles, and tendons to maintain stability during various movements. The ligament consists of two bundles that work together to control the rotational and forward movement of the knee.

How Do ACL Injuries Occur?

ACL injuries typically occur due to sudden, forceful movements or impacts that place excessive stress on the ligament. Common mechanisms of injury include sudden stops or pivots, abrupt changes in direction, landing awkwardly from a jump, or direct blows to the knee. Female athletes, especially those participating in sports like soccer, basketball, and gymnastics, have a higher risk of ACL injury than males.

When an ACL injury occurs, individuals may experience a popping sound or sensation in the knee, followed by immediate pain, swelling, and instability. The knee may feel weak and give way during movement, making it difficult to bear weight or participate in physical activities. In some cases, associated injuries, such as damage to the meniscus or other ligaments, may also occur.

What Does Treatment Look Like?

Diagnosing an ACL injury involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. The healthcare provider will assess the knee joint’s range of motion, stability, and overall function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be recommended to evaluate the extent of the injury and rule out other knee conditions.

Treatment options for ACL injuries depend on various factors, including the severity of the injury, the individual’s activity level, and the presence of associated injuries. Non-surgical treatment may suit individuals with partial tears or those without high-demand activities. It typically involves physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, bracing to provide stability, and activity modification.

Surgical intervention may be recommended for individuals with complete tears or those wanting to return to high-demand sports or activities. ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, typically harvested from the individual’s hamstring or patellar tendon, or using donor tissue. The surgery aims to restore knee stability and allow individuals to return to their pre-injury level of activity with proper rehabilitation.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Recovery from an ACL injury requires a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Physical therapy is vital in restoring strength, range of motion, and stability to the knee joint. The rehabilitation process typically includes exercises to improve flexibility, balance, proprioception, and gradual return to sports-specific activities.

How Can You Prevent These Injuries?

Preventing ACL injuries is crucial, particularly for individuals engaged in high-risk sports. Strategies for prevention include regular conditioning and strengthening exercises to improve lower limb strength and control, proper technique training for jumping and landing, and wearing appropriate protective gear. Additionally, maintaining good overall physical fitness, warming up adequately before activities, and avoiding overuse and fatigue can help reduce the risk of ACL injuries.

Learn More With Paris Orthopedics 

The ACL is a critical ligament in the knee joint, providing stability and preventing excessive forward movement. ACL injuries are common, particularly in sports involving sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping. Understanding the basics of ACL health and injury empowers individuals to recognize the signs, seek appropriate treatment, and take preventive measures.

Are you interested in learning more about ACL health? Our team at Paris Orthopedics has an array of resources and information for you to use. Find out more by visiting our website or giving us a call at (903) 737-0000. 

Sports Medicine

5 Non-Surgical Treatment Methods For Sports Medicine

In the world of sports, injuries are inevitable. While some instances are bad enough to require surgery, this is not always true. Even as orthopedic surgeons, we always consider non-surgical treatment methods before moving toward an invasive procedure. 

Sometimes, people are only aware of surgical treatment methods and do not know as much about these other ways. However, today our Paris Orthopedics team is sharing the many ways you can treat sports injuries without going under the knife. 

Non-Surgical Treatment Methods 

Bracing

Bracing is the first non-surgical treatment method we will discuss today. The brace acts as a way to take the weight off of an injured area by restricting movement and relieving pressure. This promotes healing over time. This is commonly seen in injuries that affect the spine, knee, ankle, and elbow. 

Braces are often seen in sports as a treatment method while also acting as a way to injure oneself further. It is essential to listen to your orthopedic doctor’s recommendations on using the brace and follow the guidelines appropriately. 

Short-Term Medications

Sometimes, short-term medications can give you the pain relief necessary to treat your condition. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are useful. These provide relaxation for a patient by reducing inflammation, pain, and even fevers. However, they do not cure the condition that is bringing on the pain. They do provide relief while you are trying to figure out what else to do for the condition. 

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections are used to relieve pain and inflammation in the injured area of your body. This is most commonly seen in joints like the ankle, elbow, hip, knee, shoulder, spine, or wrist. While it can sometimes take a week to feel the relief of the cortisone shot, the effects can last months after the procedure takes place. 

These corticosteroids mimic the hormone cortisol your adrenal glands produce naturally. While these are sometimes shortened to be referred to as steroids, they do not have the same negative connotation that other types of steroids do for impacting an athlete’s performance at their sport.   

Physical Therapy

We are also huge fans of physical therapy as a non-surgical treatment method for athletes. Physical therapy can help the patient regain mobility and recover faster through movement. Oftentimes, your orthopedic doctor can refer you to a physical therapist they work with to find the ideal option for your scenario. 

Depending on the initial problem, the length of services and exercises one must do will vary. For example, someone with a leg injury will not do the same process as those with an injury in their arms. 

Viscosupplementation Injections 

These injections are typically seen as a treatment method for knee arthritis. However, this is often the last option after your doctor has tried other non-surgical methods. Hyaluronic acid is injected into the knee joint. This is a naturally occurring substance found in the liquid surrounding the joints.

People with arthritis in their knees tend to have less hyaluronic acid in their bodies already. Hence, the injections add to the present amount to facilitate more effortless movement for the joint. The amount of shots necessary depends on the person and situation. It requires avoiding strenuous activities 24 to 48 hours after the injection. 


Your sports’ related injury may not require surgery! By learning about other non-surgical methods of treatment, you can go into your appointment feeling confident. Finally, are you interested in seeking out one of these options for your injury? Schedule an appointment with our team today. Find out more through our website or by giving us a call at (903) 737-0000.

General Ortho

5 Of The Most Common Orthopedic Surgeries

Did you experience a slip or fall that has left you with a painful injury? Unintentional injuries account for 24.2 million emergency department visits each year. These include injuries ranging from strains, sprains, and dislocations to concussions and fractures, most of which affect the musculoskeletal system creating the most common orthopedic surgeries.

The musculoskeletal system includes the bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, joints, and bursae–the lubricated cushions between a bone and the surrounding soft tissue. 

When possible, non-surgical treatment methods are always preferred. However, in many cases, surgery is necessary to correct these orthopedic injuries. If you encounter an orthopedic injury that requires surgery, work with a team you can trust. Paris Orthopedics is here to help by starting with sharing the most common orthopedic surgeries with you. 

Partial Shoulder Replacement 

Shoulder replacement surgeries are significantly less common than knee or hip replacements. While they may be performed to treat an injury such as a severely torn rotator cuff, shoulder replacement surgeries are often used to relieve painful conditions such as osteoarthritis. A partial shoulder replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, is a procedure during which the head of the humerus bone (long bone in the upper arm) is replaced with a prosthetic ball, but the natural socket is left intact.

Total Shoulder Replacement 

In cases where the shoulder socket is affected, a total shoulder replacement is necessary. There are two different methods–traditional arthroplasty and reverse arthroplasty. In a traditional shoulder replacement surgery, the original ball-and-socket surfaces of the shoulder are replaced with similarly shaped prosthetics. During a reverse, the positions of the shoulder joint’s ball and socket are switched–the ball at the top of the upper arm bone (humerus) is replaced with a socket-shaped prosthetic, and the socket is replaced with a prosthetic ball.

Partial Hip Replacement 

Partial hip replacement surgery is often performed to repair certain hip fractures. Like the shoulder, the hip comprises a ball and socket joint. With a partial replacement, the femoral head (or ball) is removed and replaced with either a ceramic or metal ball attached to a metal stem. The stem called a hip implant, is set into the femur. The socket is left intact.

Total Hip Replacement 

The hip is one of the body’s largest joints, and hip replacement surgery is considered one of the most successful surgical procedures in all medicine. A total hip replacement includes replacing the femoral head (ball) and neck and removing any damaged cartilage in the pelvis. Three bearing surfaces are available for total hip replacements: a metal ball on the plastic liner, ceramic on ceramic, and metal on metal. Metal on highly cross-linked polyethylene (plastic) is the most recommended for durability. Around 98% of this type of replacement last around 20 years in young, active patients.

Total Knee Replacement 

Knee pain is among the most common causes of chronic pain in the United States. Joint replacement surgery is often recommended for those unable to perform everyday tasks, such as sleeping, without difficulty and pain. It may also be used to correct a knee deformity.

The procedure name, total knee replacement, can be misleading. Many people may not realize that the bones themselves are not actually replaced but instead their surfaces in these surgeries. The bones (tibia and femur) are prepared by removing damaged cartilage from their surfaces and a small amount of underlying bone. Metal implants are then used to recreate the surface. The patella (kneecap) is also resurfaced before a medical-grade spacer is inserted between the metal components. This space creates a smooth gliding surface to restore joint function.

Contact Paris Orthopedics

Have you experienced an injury that can’t be healed without surgery? It may be time to find an orthopedic surgeon you can trust. Paris Orthopedic and Sports Medicine’s board-certified physicians offer patients comprehensive orthopedic and musculoskeletal services. Our services include surgical and non-surgical treatments for sports injuries and a broad range of bone, muscle, and joint problems. For more information, visit our website to schedule an appointment or give us a call at (903) 737-0000.

General Ortho

Comparing Aerobic And Anaerobic Exercise

What is your favorite way to move your body? Maybe you love going on a run or spending the evening in a hot yoga studio. One of the best parts about exercise is how much variety there is. With this many options, there can be a lot of information to understand about each. One factor is to know whether the movement is aerobic or anaerobic exercise. This can help you complete and recover from the movement successfully. 

At Paris Orthopedics, we are accustomed to seeing how mistakes with movement can lead to injury. By taking the time to learn more about exercise, you can avoid being the newest patient to come in with an injury. Knowing the details of aerobic and anaerobic exercises can make your workout plan even more substantial. We would love to give you further information and resources! 

Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise 

What Is Aerobic Exercise?  

Aerobic exercise is characterized by your muscles moving in a rhythmic and coordinated manner that produces an endurance-type movement. The name comes from the fact that oxygen is required to generate energy. There is an increase in a person’s heart rate and breathing that leads to more oxygen being brought to the muscles. The duration of these exercises tends to be longer. 

Examples of this type of exercise include running, biking, spinning, and even swimming. As you can see, there is a similarity in how these exercises can quickly pick up your heart rate and even leave you out of breath. 

What Is Anaerobic Exercise?  

Anaerobic exercises are more focused on short, intense bursts of physical movement. These movements are different from aerobic exercises as they do not require the same significant presence of oxygen. This is when there is a breakdown of glucose stores and a build-up of lactic acid in the muscles. These are shorter bursts of energy that occur more quickly. This is for people trying to build muscle mass and strength over time. 

Examples of this type of exercise are sprints, HIIT workouts, and weightlifting. These are done in smaller increments, but they build up that lactic acid in a way that still gives your body a very effective workout. A critical aspect of these types of workouts is ensuring you are doing them in the correct form. If you do these exercises with incorrect form, it may lead to an injury. 

How Are The Two Similar?

There are many differences between these two, but there are also similarities to consider. Both of these are beneficial for your cardiovascular system. They can each increase your metabolism and strengthen the heart muscle while also contributing to weight management. While helping with heart health, they can also contribute to preventing other conditions, such as diabetes and even certain types of cancer. 

The two of these are also great contributors to your mental health. When you are able to get your body moving, it can be stress relief while also giving your brain a break from the normal actions of the day. It is a great way to cope with stress from your day. 

Aerobic and anaerobic exercises can both play a significant role in your health and fitness. They are beneficial in their own unique ways. By understanding the two together and separately, you can create a plan that meets all of your goals. Do you have questions about either of these categories of exercise? Contact our team at Paris Orthopedics to find out more information and get started today. You can give us a call at (903) 737-0000 or check out our website for more information. 

Injury Prevention

8 Ways To Prevent Running Injuries

Looking for new ways to get outside this year? Running can feel hard on the body, but for many, the physical and mental health benefits far outweigh the potential risks. From shin splints and stress fractures to hamstring issues and Achilles tendonitis, there are numerous ways to encounter a problem, either during or after your run. However, our Paris Orthopedics team has devised a list of eight ways to prevent running injuries, keeping you active and exploring. 

Invest In The Right Shoes

Don’t let sticker shock deter you from investing in proper footwear. It’s best to visit a specialty running store to help you achieve the best fit for your body and needs. You should have a little wiggle room around the toes while your foot fits snugly in the heel. It’s also equally important to maintain your running shoes. Avid runners should replace their shoes every six months or every 400-600 miles.

Find The Right Path

High-quality, properly fitting running shoes will only get you so far. If possible, avoid running on concrete. Instead, opt for surfaces that absorb the shock rather than passing it along to your legs. Even asphalt is a better alternative if you can’t find grass, dirt trails, or a rubberized running track. But remember that a sudden change in the running surface can also cause injury, so transition over time versus all at once.

Spend Time Stretching

This may be obvious, but hands down, one of the best ways to prevent any bodily injury is to keep it loose and limber. The more flexible you are, the better your range of motion and the less likely you are to get injured. Stretch both before and after your run. You may also consider taking up yoga on days you don’t run to improve your flexibility and balance further.

Consider Strength Training 

Maybe you’re a runner because you don’t like traditional gym workouts, but the more powerful your muscles are, the better they can support your joints. Added benefits of strength training include improved muscle tone, endurance, and bone density. If the gym isn’t your thing, you can lift weights at home or use everyday household objects to help you build muscle.

Be Patient

If your goal is to run a 10K, but the furthest you’ve run is around the block, don’t expect to run six miles out of the gate. There’s no harm in taking it slow, especially when you’re starting. Starting with shorter runs and gradually increasing your distance over several weeks is the best way to prevent running injuries.

Check Your Posture

When you’re running, it’s easy to think about your legs and feet. But it’s also essential to pay close attention to your upper body. Get in the habit of checking your posture daily throughout your run. Are you staying upright with your shoulders back and relaxed? If not, raise your shoulders to your ears, then drop them down to a relaxed position. This can help you avoid lower back, neck, and shoulder pain and improve your breathing.

Keep Your Head Up

Maintaining your form is critical to preventing running injuries, including head positioning. Too far forward and you’ll experience neck and back pain; too far back and you may strain your neck muscles. Keep your head in line with your shoulders and hips. This is one of those running injuries that people tend to forget about in the process. 

Take Time To Rest

If you aren’t feeling 100%, consider skipping your run. Sure there are some days when you’ll have to talk yourself into getting out of bed for your morning run when the temperatures cool down, or maybe you stayed out too late the night before. But we’re talking about listening to your body when telling you it needs a break. Taking time off each week can help you avoid the most common running injuries and prevent fatigue when you push your body too hard or too fast.

 

Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential, but with it also comes the risk of suffering from a condition resulting from injury, disease, or the normal process of aging, disuse, or overuse.

Despite all of your best efforts to avoid them, the bottom line is that injuries can still happen–especially with the overuse and repetitive motion that occurs with frequent running. 

Schedule an appointment with Paris Orthopedics today if you are experiencing chronic pain or have injured yourself while running. Our team of experts specializes in diagnosing and treating running injuries and conditions, including knee ligament and tendon tears, ACL injuries, tendonitis, meniscus injuries, and more.

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

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.