The Foundry Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Blog

Given some unfortunate circumstances and misinformation that occurred recently, I have decided to write this week’s blog on the Independent Medical Evaluation (IME).  This is something that many physicians perform.  It occurred to me that most patients may not know and understand what exactly this means.

As an amateur rock climber I’d like to share my experience and a few things I learned to avoid and practice while taking up the sport of rock climbing. My first rock climbing session was indoors.  I hired an instructor to show me the basics on how to grip; pull myself up and how to push off with my legs to get to my next rock.  I started with easier climbs where the rocks are closer together and I eventually ventured out to a couple more challenging routes, which the rocks are wider. I underestimated the amount of strategy, focus and strength in doing a leisurely afternoon climb.  At the end of my session my forearms were burning, obviously my grip strength needed work.  Later I learned I could have used my legs more and a good warm up.

More and more athletic women and girls are injuring their knees, often seriously. Why?  One reason is that more females are participating in more serious sports than ever before.  Basketball, soccer and volleyball (as well as other sports) are great examples.  As overall sports participation among males remains level, more females of all ages are playing and competing in sports.

Splinting is a common form of treatment for many upper limb conditions, particularly in the acute phase after injury or surgery. Splints may be prefabricated or custom made. Prefabricated splints are generally metal or plastic and attach with velcro straps. They are quick and easy to use, and relatively inexpensive and inexact. Custom made splints provide an individualized splint with an exact fit. Custom made splints (orthotics) are fabricated by Occupational Therapists or Certified Hand Therapists.

As preseason football is not too far away, I though it would be good to look at some of the more common injuries we see during the football season.