Orthopedics is the medical subspecialty that focuses on the diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, the interconnected and multifaceted structure comprised of the bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves, joints, and tendons. The name is rooted in Greek terminology – coming from “ortho” or straight, and “paes” or child; however, today the medical field features doctors
Read MoreOrthopedic Surgeon
Reasons your child should see an orthopedic surgeon
Children are active. They love to run, jump, climb, and play. Being active and sometimes taking risks can lead to accidents and injuries. Most of the time, soap and water, a bandage and a kiss are exactly what your child needs to feel better. When there is more than just a bruise or a scratch,
Read MoreQuestions to Ask Your Orthopedic Surgeon
If a visit to an orthopedic surgeon is in your future, be sure to arm yourself with several important questions to ask during the appointment. You may be visiting an orthopedic specialist for a wide range of reasons, including these common scenarios: · Joint pain due to arthritis · Your child fell at the playground
Read MorePreventing Hand Dislocations
Your hands and arms have many delicate bones that can easily become dislocated or even broken. A dislocation, by definition, is the separation of two bones in the joints, disrupting the ligaments that attach and keep everything together. The type and severity of dislocations vary. A dislocation can be closed (meaning it hasn’t broken through
Read MoreHow Preventing a Hip Fracture Can Save Your Life
If you’re over the age of 65 or know someone who is, you’ve probably heard about osteoporosis and hip fractures. When someone is diagnosed with osteoporosis, it simply means that due to low bone density, their bones continue to be fragile and weak, making them more susceptible to injuries like very dangerous hip fractures. That’s
Read MoreOrthopedic Surgeon Spotlight: Marc A. Aiken, MD
A native of Starkville, Mississippi, Dr. Mark A. Aiken earned his undergraduate degree at Mississippi State University, and then went on to complete his medical degree at the University of Mississippi, followed by a five-year orthopedic surgical residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Aiken went on to complete an AO/ASIF Fellowship in
Read MoreWhy Your Child Needs the Best Pediatric Orthopedic Care
Throughout our lives, we have heard that staying active and healthy during childhood is very important, as it can set the foundation for how our bodies grow and develop as we age throughout life. Our anatomy provides form, stability, movement, support, and binds our organs and connective tissues together. It is true that children have
Read MoreHip Fractures Not Uncommon, Can Cause Death if Left Untreated
Hip fractures tend to be more common as we get older. Research by doctors concluded that the lifetime risk of a hip fracture in a woman is 17.5 percent; for men, it’s six percent. Women have greater rates of osteoporosis than men, and thus the greater risk of fractures. Osteoporosis is a degenerative condition where
Read MoreUnderlying Conditions that May Cause Hip Fracture
A hip fracture is the complete or partial breakage of the upper thighbone, known as the proximal femur. The femur’s rounded end (known as its head) sits tightly but freely in the pelvis socket. The correct functioning of this “ball-and-socket” joint is essential for human locomotion. Hip fractures can cause loss of the ability to
Read MoreCan a Hip Fracture Heal on its Own
The human hip is a ball and socket joint. It is the most flexible and free-moving joint in the body, allowing us to preform and participate in activities in our everyday lives. It can move backwards and forwards, to the side, and can perform twisting motions. Full function of the hip is dependent on the
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