Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics follows an outcome-based approach to join replacement. Our physicians follow each patient’s results and study the data to identify ways to keep improving our already high success and outcomes. Planning for your recovery from an orthopedic surgical procedure, such as joint replacement, will provide a smoother experience and improved outcome. From advanced planning for medications and medical equipment to caregivers and meals, follow these easy and practical tips before surgery to be even better set up for postoperative success.
Your choice to reach joint replacement has likely come after experiencing long-term joint pain. After seeking a consultation from a joint specialist, you recognize the benefits of joint replacement to improve your quality of life. Take time to understand the surgical procedure, anesthesia and post-op care, as well as physical therapy and recovery expectations
Your physician has provided you a list of durable medical equipment and cryotherapy items that you will need to assist in your recovery. Forté offers many of these items in our DME store or items can be found online, at a local pharmacy or medical home supply store. Purchasing these items before your surgery will allow you to be fully prepared upon returning home from your procedure.
To provide a safe recovery at home, take preventative measures such as removing throw rugs which could slip and cause a fall risk, installing grab bars in your shower/tub to assist in bathing needs and keeping pathways clear of items and pets. Have items you use daily in easy to reach areas and have an easy-to-access area devoted to your medical equipment.
Plan for a driver to transport you to and from the hospital the day of surgery as well your outpatient physical therapy and doctor’s appointments for the first three to four weeks post-op. You might also arrange for a person/caregiver to stay two to five nights after surgery. It is a good idea to schedule assistance with meals, laundry, house, pet and yard care assistance for a few weeks. Having help planned for these tasks will allow you to better focus on your recovery and healing.
A few hours after surgery, an inpatient physical therapist will come to your room to teach you gentle exercises. For example, with a knee replacement, these exercises will promote leg circulation to reduce blood clot risk and reduce postoperative swelling and pain. This would include walking with a walker and learning how to safely walk up and down a short set of stairs.
Once home, a home health physical therapist will visit you two to three times a week for up to two weeks, depending on your surgeon’s recommendation. The physical therapy exercises during these visits will work with you to regain motion and stability of the affected joint. Mobility will be addressed with specific range of motions exercises. For example, with a hip or knee replacement, the therapist will teach you normal walking patterns and how to safely ambulate steps.
When the at-home therapy is completed, you will move to outpatient physical therapy. The length of this therapy will be dependent upon your ability to successfully restore functional joint motion as well as increased strength and balance to safely return to daily living and activities. Your surgeon or therapist will guide you on returning to low to high impact exercise, swimming or aquatic exercise.
Schedule a Consultation at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics Today
If you are experiencing chronic joint pain or are preparing for a joint replacement, Forté offers some of the area’s most experienced joint replacement surgeons who perform hundreds of joint replacements each year, in-office physical therapy as well as interventional pain management. We have convenient locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Mooresville, Noblesville and Tipton. Don’t let joint pain keep you from your daily activities. Contact us today to get started to get you back to your forté.
Inflammation causes dozens of health problems ranging from frustrating, but not fatal, things such as acne to serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Inflammation is the body’s healing response, but when it becomes prolonged or unresolved, it can trigger chronic pain by irritating nerves and altering pain pathways, leading to heightened sensitivity and pain from non-painful stimuli. Over time, the brain may continue to interpret signals as pain, even if there’s no ongoing tissue damage.
The Causes of Joint Pain
Joint pain often develops due to arthritis or after an injury to a joint such as a fracture, sprain (ligament) or strain (muscle or tendon). Long-term inflammation in the joints can cause constant pain and tenderness. Such joint pain could stem from inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
“Food has everything to do with how we feel and our diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis,” said Dr. John Hur, Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in joint replacement in the knee and hip. “The right foods can have an anti-inflammatory effect and make us healthy and feel better overall. The wrong foods, such as sugar, can cause disease and make our bodies hurt more.”
Foods to Help Reduce Inflammation and Provide Joint Support
The good news is that some inflammation can be avoided simply by changing your diet to include anti-inflammatory foods—and there are many from which to choose.
To help prevent inflammation, increase the intake of:
Also, by eating your last meal two hours before bedtime, you can reduce inflammation. Supplements such as turmeric / curcumin, fish oil, ginger and garlic can also provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Foods to Avoid in an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
To achieve the best results, minimize or eliminate the consumption of foods that fuel inflammation. The most common culprits to avoid include:
Special Considerations to Note for Those with Pre-Existing Conditions
As with any healthy diet, people with diabetes, high blood pressure or those who take blood thinners have special considerations and should consult their physician with any questions and/or before making significant changes.
Stay Fit and Active to Maintain Overall Joint Health
For those with arthritis, low-impact activity, in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory diet, is encouraged. By combining these, better weight and joint range of motion is maintained, and strength is built to help the way the body functions.
Examples of low-impact exercises include biking, swimming, water aerobics, walking on the treadmill or elliptical, rowing and yoga. Most studies suggest that running does not appear to accelerate the progress of osteoarthritis, so long as you allow adequate rest between runs.
Schedule a Consultation at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics Today
If you are experiencing joint pain that is interfering with your ability to perform your daily activities, look to our team of orthopedic and interventional pain medicine physicians for assistance. We have convenient locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Mooresville, Noblesville and Tipton to serve you. Following a consultation, we will create a treatment plan to address your pain and provide the best possible outcome. Contact us today to get started.
Sources and Anti-Inflammatory Tips: Arthritis Foundation, Mindbodygreen and Heathline.
We invite you to join Dr. Tyler McCarroll, Hip and Knee Surgeon for a free breakfast and a discussion on knee injuries and ACL tears. Dr. McCarroll will discuss how to prevent knee injuries, what happens during an ACL tear and new treatment options.
We invite you to join Dr. Michael Del Busto, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician for a free breakfast and a discussion on chronic pain and how it can occur in anyone at any age. Dr. Del Busto will discuss the areas of chronic pain such as neck, back and knees, and how Peripheral Nerve Stimulation can offer relief.
Achilles tendon ruptures seem to be the most common injury along with ACL tears for professional athletes these days. The Achilles tendon goes down the back of your leg to your heel. It is formed by three separate muscles from your calf that come together and attach to the heel bone. When you jump, climb or even push off for your next run, you’re activating your Achilles. We discussed how to treat and prevent Achilles tendon injuries with Dr. Andrew Wohler, foot and ankle surgeon in Carmel and Greenwood.
What is an Achilles rupture?
How does an Achilles rupture happen?
What are the signs and symptoms of an Achilles injury?
How are Achilles tendon ruptures treated?
What is the process with surgery?
Are there any risk factors with surgery?
How long is the recovery period?
Are men more likely to tear their Achilles versus women?
Do you see more Achilles injuries in basketball vs football?
How can you prevent an Achilles injury?
If you’re struggling with calf or Achilles pain, our Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics foot and ankle team in Carmel, Greenwood or Noblesville are here to help. Contact us today! Our experts will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs so you can get back on your feet pain-free!
* PARS Achilles Midsubstance SpeedBridge™ Implant System with Arthrex
Chronic back pain not only effects everyday activities such as walking, bending over and even getting dressed, but it also limits mobility and disrupts overall physical function in daily life. Degenerative disc disease could be the root of the pain. Up to 40% or more adults over the age of 40 have at least one degenerated disc. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, our specialists work with patients dealing with back pain. If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, you may be a candidate for the VIA Disc NP procedure.
What is a VIA Disc NP Procedure?
VIA Disc NP is a minimally invasive, non-surgical outpatient procedure most used for patients with chronic back pain who have failed conservative care. It treats degenerative disc disease by replacing lost tissue. Patients who have this procedure experience reduced pain and increased spinal function.
Similar to other pain management procedures, the consideration process to receive this procedure includes an initial office consultation where Dr. Michael Del Busto provides a physical exam, review of advanced images and discusses treatment options.
VIA Disc NP provides a restorative solution to pain and function, whereas many other treatments may simply mask pain. We are addressing the problem at its root cause.
Who Can Benefit from VIA Disc NP?
This procedure is for patients who have experienced tissue loss within the lumbar intervertebral discs. These patients have chronic low back pain that is typically worse with prolonged sitting and bending forward who have failed conservative care. This is not for patients with referred pain in the legs with numbness, burning or weakness.
How Does The Procedure Work?
A VIA Disc NP is an allograft of lumbar disc that is able to be fluoroscopically placed in the spine without surgery through a needle similar to an injection. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete in an outpatient setting.
What Is the Expected Recovery Timeframe?
The recovery from this procedure is a few days The patient will be at home recovering after the procedure. Heavy lifting will be limited for one week after the procedure and then progress back to activities thereafter.
The procedure is minimally invasive and only a needle is needed to place the implant. This allows for a faster recovery within a matter a few days.
Is Rehabilitation Required after the Procedure?
No. Patients do not need any rehabilitation after VIA Disc NP.
How Long Do Results Last?
Clinical studies have shown that 70% of patients experience approximately 50 to 70% pain reduction with sustained pain relief for up to 12 months. Ongoing studies are being done to provide longer-term outcome data. Individual results may vary.
Does Insurance Cover VIA Disc NP?
Medicare, VA, some federal plans and worker’s compensation insurance cover the procedure. Most commercial payers do not cover the procedure currently.
Meet With a Specialist Today
At Forté Sports Medicine & Orthopedics, our specialists offer expert treatment options to restore the function of your spine and relieve chronic pain. If you’re ready to discover options for your back pain to find relief, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation today, to get started on your path to recovery.
*The VIA Disc NP procedure will take place at the Franciscan Orthopedic Hospital at the Carmel Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics location.
Experiencing chronic low back pain disrupts daily activities and mobility. Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics specialists work with patients dealing with back pain to return them to pain-free living. If you’re experiencing chronic low back pain, you may be a candidate for the Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure.
What is a Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Procedure?
This is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure with fluoroscopy to ablate (burn) the basivertebral nerve in the lumbar spine. The basivertebral nerve is the pain-generating nerve in the spine. The goal of the procedure is to destroy this nerve. Dr. Michael Del Busto works with patients who have not responded to conservative treatments to provide pain relief.
“We now have an exciting new treatment for chronic low back pain, and the relief is permanent,” said Dr. Michael Del Busto. “The basivertebral nerve ablation is a game changer for my patients and eliminates chronic low back pain without surgery.”
Who Can Benefit from Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
This procedure is intended for patients with chronic low back pain who have failed conservative care. These patients also have specific findings called, Modic changes, on their MRI. Modic changes are detectable degenerative alterations in spinal vertebral endplates. These changes cause chronic low back pain, stiffness, increased pain during activity or after a night’s rest. This procedure is not for patients with referred pain in the legs with numbness, burning or weakness.
What is the Process of the Procedure?
The procedure burns and destroys the nerve. Basivertebral nerve ablation takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete in an outpatient surgery center. This procedure is permanent.
What is the Efficacy of Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
In 70% to 75% of patients, this procedure reduces pain by 50% to 100%.
What Is the Expected Recovery Timeframe?
The patient will go home the same day after the procedure. Most patients return to light activity within 24 to 48 hours. Full recovery typically occurs within one to two weeks.
How Long Do Results Last?
Based on the latest clinical data, this procedure offers sustained relief for at least five years. Ongoing studies are being done to provide longer-term outcome data. Individual results may vary.
“Patients can experience pain relief as quickly as a few weeks with maximum pain relief at 3 months,” said Dr. Michael Del Busto. “Many patients are excited to tell me they simply forgot that they have back pain.”
Does Insurance Cover Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Medicare and most commercial insurances cover this procedure.
Meet With a Specialist Today
If you’re ready to put an end to your low back pain, we are here to help. Restore the function of your spine and relieve chronic pain by experiencing the difference the Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure can make. Call 317.817.1200 to schedule a consultation with Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics today in Carmel, Indiana* or schedule a consultation today to get back to your forté.
*The Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure will take place in the Franciscan Orthopedic Surgery Center at the Carmel Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics location.
Knee replacement surgery has come a long way in recent years. If chronic knee pain is putting a damper on your lifestyle, a minimally invasive option like the subvastus approach might be the solution you’re looking for. This technique offers a less disruptive path to regaining mobility and reducing pain.
If you’re considering subvastus knee replacement, it helps to understand what’s happening in your knee. This joint connects your thigh bone (femur) to your shin bone (tibia), with your kneecap (patella) protecting the front. The ends of these bones are covered in cartilage, which helps them glide smoothly. Ligaments hold the bones together, and muscles around the knee—especially the quadriceps—allow you to move it.
In a healthy knee, everything works together in harmony. But when arthritis, injury, or wear and tear break down the cartilage or damage the joint, pain and stiffness may take over. That’s where knee replacement surgery comes in.
In a traditional knee replacement, surgeons cut through part of the quadriceps tendon to access the joint. As a major player in leg movement, cutting this tendon results in a longer, more painful recovery.
The subvastus approach works differently. Instead of cutting through the tendon, the surgeon goes underneath the vastus medialis muscle to reach the knee joint. This preserves the quadriceps mechanism, resulting in a muscle-sparing technique that’s less traumatic for your leg.
This minimally invasive knee surgery offers several advantages over the traditional method:
Proper preparation sets the tone for your entire recovery. Your surgeon will walk you through every step, which may include the following:
On surgery day, you’ll be taken to the operating room and given anesthesia. Depending on your comfort level, overall health, and the anticipated duration of the procedure, you may receive general anesthesia (making you completely unconscious) or spinal anesthesia (numbing you from the waist down).
The whole procedure typically takes one to two hours. Here’s how it unfolds:
The first thing most patients ask is, “How long does it take to recover from knee replacement?” The subvastus approach speeds things up, but everyone’s recovery is a little different. Your surgeon will tailor your recovery plan to your health and goals, answering any questions or concerns that come up along the way.
The first few days of knee replacement recovery involve walking gently to prevent stiffness, promote circulation, and build strength. You will start home physical therapy the next day with an at home physical therapist and continue with a rehabilitation program for a few months.
Within four to six weeks, you can return to basic activities like walking, driving (once cleared), and climbing stairs. Expect to continue outpatient physical therapy based on your surgeons preferemce.
After three to six months, you’ll notice significant strength and stamina returning to your knee. By now, you can resume most low-impact exercises and hobbies. Some patients feel nearly back to normal, while others need a little more time.
Even with minimally invasive techniques, no knee replacement surgery is risk-free. Your surgeon may review the following risks with you:
Fortunately, these complications are rare, especially when surgery is performed by experienced fellowship trained surgeons. Pursue follow-up care and adhere to your rehab plan to minimize long-term problems.
Working with the right care team makes all the difference in your outcome. Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics has spent over 40 years helping people move better, feel better and live better. Our patients undergo joint replacement surgery with a clear treatment and recovery plan in mind, giving them complete confidence in our evidence-based practices. If you’re in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, Mooresville or Tipton, IN, our team is ready to help you achieve a healthier, pain-free life. Request an appointment today at the location that works best for you.
Do you feel pain and stiffness in your shoulder when attempting to retrieve something from a high shelf or reaching across your body to fasten a seatbelt? You might be dealing with frozen shoulder. This condition tends to creep up slowly, making everyday tasks more difficult as your shoulder joint tightens.
Frozen shoulder is common, especially in people over 40, and it doesn’t always have an obvious cause. But once symptoms begin, they tend to stick around. Recognizing frozen shoulder symptoms early and starting the right treatment plan is the best way to speed up your recovery.
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that limits movement in your shoulder joint. The capsule of connective tissue that surrounds the joint becomes inflamed and stiff. Over time, this tightens up the joint and severely restricts motion.
Frozen shoulder typically affects one shoulder at a time, although in some unlucky cases, both may be affected at once. Fortunately, this condition is treatable and often preventable.
Here are the factors that increase the risk of frozen shoulder:
Frozen shoulder develops in four distinct stages, each with unique symptoms. Knowing which stage you’re in guides your treatment plan and helps you set reasonable expectations.
In this phase, your shoulder feels off, but you’re not sure what’s wrong yet. You might assume you slept in a weird position or overdid it at the gym. But when the discomfort lingers for weeks, it becomes clear that it’s not just a passing soreness.
Symptoms of a pre-freezing shoulder:
By now, you’re in active freezing mode. The pain increases, and your range of motion plummets. Tasks like brushing your hair or reaching behind you to grab a seatbelt may make you grit your teeth. The discomfort may last six weeks to nine months.
Symptoms of a freezing shoulder:
You can expect a slight reprieve from the pain during this stage, but your movement becomes highly restricted. Your shoulder may remain uncooperative for four to six months.
Symptoms of a frozen shoulder:
Finally, you start to see improvement as your mobility gradually returns. A frozen shoulder may take six months to two years to fully thaw, but you can speed things up with help from physical therapy or medical intervention.
Symptoms of a thawing shoulder:
No one wants to live with a shoulder that refuses to move for months on end. Fortunately, there are many ways to ease the pain and relieve stiffness. Some of the most common frozen shoulder treatment methods include:
It’s important to match the treatment with the stage of your condition. In most cases, conservative options work best if started early.
Gentle movement is one of the best ways to ease stiffness and gradually restore shoulder mobility. Try these exercises at home with permission from your doctor or physical therapist:
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics has been helping patients reduce shoulder pain and regain mobility since 1983. Our approach puts you first—you’ll leave your initial appointment with a clear, personalized action plan in mind so you know exactly what comes next. Our specialists work together to help you meet your treatment goals, whether that’s returning to your sport or just getting through the day without pain. When you’re ready to restore motion in your shoulder, please book an appointment in Carmel, Greenwood, Mooresville, Noblesville, or Tipton, IN.
Our Mooresville location will close at noon on Friday, May 15th.
Travel routes to our Carmel Forté office have been impacted by road closures for the Level Up 31 project. Please add extra travel time for your appointment. Visit http://levelup31.com/ for more details.