Bone Tissue Engineering

Image Credits: Semantic Scholar 

Your health is your wealth. The beauty of living in an age of rapid innovation is the fact that there are possibilities that exist that will facilitate your healing. A principle of life is that if you seek, you will find. Be proactive and see what is possible in your healing. In some instances, traditional therapies don’t provide relief, but in other instances there are moments where new innovations are actually the therapies that you are looking for. 

Statistically, there is a worldwide expansion of bone disorders. In 2020 alone, there will be a possibility of a doubling of the number of persons on the globe with a bone disorder. The primary root cause of this, is influenced by the fact that the population is aging. With the advent of new technologies however, it is possible that these increasing cases of bone conditions can be handled when they arise. Essentially, from the orthopaedic realm, the aim is to ensure that human longevity and mobility can be facilitated. With advances in healing therapies that are being developed now, it will be possible for full recovery if the emergence of a bone condition were to emerge. 

ENGINEERED BONE TISSUE

Engineered bone tissue is currently under review as a potential therapy that will enable healing of bone conditions. Within the body, there are some parts of the body that take a long time to heal. Bones are one such area. If there’s a bone condition, or even a situation such as a fracture, it will take months or even years for the bone to heal, once an appropriate scaffold or a cast is applied to the area. 

With age, the growth factors and other healing elements in the body actually diminish. Stem cell therapy currently places us in a situation where we can facilitate further healing. Aside from that, it is now becoming possible to engineer bone tissue that will facilitate restoration of bones. For healing therapies such as bone grafts, engineered bone tissue is ideal. This is because the engineered bone will be readily available, but based on the source, there will be limited odds of the body rejecting or reacting to the graft. 

Bone tissue engineering, is still in the development phases of implementation in the medical realm. The limiting factor to clinical practice and administration is the standardization of the process utilized to manufacture the engineered bone tissue. Achieving this objective in the development of functional bone regeneration will be the integration of biomaterials, cells and growth factors in the development process.

Bone Grafts 

Bone grafts facilitate the bone repair and regeneration process. Utilizing bone grafts to the healing process is scientifically found to be a better approach to the repair process than the utilization of the patient's own tissue. This discovery has generated a higher degree of implementation of bone grafts. With the increases in bone conditions escalating, the ability to be able to treat these conditions as they arise is the ideal path forward. Additionally, with the ability to heal and repair bone, bone grafts have the benefits of: 

*high osteoinductive and angiogenic potentials

* biological safety

*low patient morbidity

* no size restrictions

* ready access to surgeons

 *long shelf life and reasonable cost.

Utilizing the current advances developed by teams of scientists, engineers and surgeons, there are great strides being taken in the development of bone grafts that are optimizing bone repair and regeneration. Utilizing an understanding of bone structure, bone mechanics and tissue formation, the team of researchers is identifying how the bone grafts are adapting to the internal environment in the body. 

Bone, as a material is a quite versatile. The internal functions of our bones are more than just the ability of the bone to keep the body upright. The bones: 

1. Facilitate your body’s motion 

2. Bear the body’s load 

3. Protection of internal organs 

4. Trapping of dangerous materials such as lead

5. Facilitating homeostasis in the body, by ensuring that key electrolytes are able to transition from the bone into the blood stream and vice versa. 

Bones are constantly changing via a process of resorption and renewal, and they do this in the chemical environment that surrounds them in our bodies. The intention of bone tissue engineering will ensure that these critical functions are maintained. Understanding the mechanisms that facilitate bone development via mechanisms that are akin to the natural methods of intramembraneous and endochrondal mechanisms will take the field forward. 

There is lots of room for improvement in the orthopaedic field. These advances are ones to look forward to. Talk to your orthopaedic specialist today, if you feel like such a technology can benefit your own condition. 

Reference Article: 

Bone Tissue Engineering: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3766369/

Osteoarthritis

Image Credits: healthline.com

“Keeping your body healthy is an expression of gratitude to the whole cosmos – the trees, the clouds, everything.”-Thich Nhat Hanh

Statistically, osteoarthritis is the most prevalent joint condition. Induced by a multitude of root causes, it is ultimately one of those conditions that has a wealth of treatments ranging from the utilization of wholistic healing methods such as joint healing oils, or the administration of surgery to facilitate the healing or replacement of the joint. 

Joints are the union of two or more bones. As a mechanical unit, the free flow of the joint is facilitated by the natural lubricating agents known as cartilage. Cartilage is soft protective tissue that lines the exterior of the bone. Under the condition of osteoarthritis, the cartilage degenerates and exposes the bones to each other. The painful condition results in limited mobility of the patients. While the majority of osteoarthritis cases take place in older patients, who have reduced healing capabilities, athletes and active individuals who place stress on their joints, can also develop arthritis. If left untreated, arthritis can induce disability. 

Causes of Osteoarthritis

It was highlighted in the previous introduction that cartilage degeneration is what ultimately leads to the joint damage associated with osteoarthritis. Joint damage as a whole has several root causes. If you had an injury for instance that resulted in the dislocation of a joint, there can also be resultant joint damage that can also inflict symptoms of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis does have genetic links, so ensure that your family medical history is assessed, and you’ll be able to identify with your doctor’s help, if you or your family members are at risk of the condition.

The Science of Cartilage 

As a tough, flexible coating to the bone, when cartilage degenerates, the friction between the joint’s bones can cause the exposed surfaces to become jagged. Cartilage, with time and age, is not a naturally self healing mechanism, because there is limited blood supply to the area. Biologics however, is beginning to enable the facilitation of healing by introducing the appropriate growth factors that will enable the cartilage to rebuild. The symptoms that patients experience include: pain as an initial indicator of a joint issue. With inflammation, the joint will swell and tenderness be experienced. As the joints lose their flexibility, there will be stiffness experienced, often in the morning upon rising. Your orthopaedic surgeon will assess your condition and determine the best way for you to approach your treatment. With all health conditions, with time, you can actually initiate healing via the facilitation of the right internal chemistry. A good and proper diet, can reduce the internal inflammation that you experience. 

THE STAGES OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis has the following five classifications:

Stage 0 - Normal 

Stage 1 - Minor 

Stage 2 - Mild 

Stage 3 - Moderate 

Stage 4- Severe

Consult with your orthopaedic surgeon to identify what stage of the progression you are on, if you are diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Cartilage loss is most prevalent in the higher tiers of the osteoarthritis scale. You are also at risk of increases in swelling and inflammation, and joint instability. 

ORTHOPAEDIC CONSULTATION

There are some conditions that take a long time to actually develop and diagnose. Osteoarthritis is one of those conditions. It is often during the periods of intense pain that one would be led to an orthopaedic specialist for the root cause of this discomfort. During your consultation, your orthopaedic surgeon will usually utilize a diagnostic tool such as an X-ray or an MRI image, in order to see the internal functions of the joint. For further details of your internal chemistry, blood tests, joint fluid tests and other tests can be conducted in order to eliminate additional root causes. From the surface, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis do have almost identical symptoms. The critical tests will provide your orthopaedic specialist with the decision making tools that will enable your condition to be diagnosed. 

OSTEOARTHRITIS SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT 

Once you are diagnosed, the next phase of your health management is to ensure that the symptoms are kept at bay. If you’re at Stage 0 for instance, you will start your preventative treatments that will ensure that you don’t degenerate to Stage 1 etc. Initially, your orthopaedic surgeon will prescribe treatments such as over the counter medication, in order to start the pain management process, and to counter the joint discomfort. With the appropriate lifestyle changes, you can live a normal life. Coupled with gentle exercises such as walking and swimming, you can keep your joints mobile and functioning as close to their peak as possible. If you are overweight, via diet change or an exercise regime, you will benefit from losing weight. Excess weight on joints that are not at their peak, will only increase the joint pain. Where possible, utilize heat to warm the area, and facilitate blood flow to the aching joint. Natural remedies such as fish oil, glucosamine chondroitin and ginger have been found to improve the body’s healing capability. 

With a little due diligence, you will take the time to learn about your body and how it functions. Instead of worrying, you can control your health and allow your body to heal via the various available treatments. Everything in life, is a choice that you make in order to have the maximum longevity possible.

Reference Article: 

Osteoarthritis: https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis#oa-outlook

Foot And Ankle Surgery - Post Operative Care

Image: University of Utah School Of Medicine 

With time, your orthopaedic condition may require more than a surface fix. With certain orthopaedic conditions, you will be required to actually have a surgical procedure done in order to ensure that the appropriate healing mechanisms are facilitated. During the current pandemic, with non-critical health conditions being diverted to places such as online apps, there will be facilitation of more urgent health care via mechanisms such as surgeries. Your surgery may be slightly delayed due to the current pandemic, but eventually you will be attended to. Once the procedure is completed, the surgery aftercare will still have to be facilitated. This article provides a few highlights of what your post operative care can be anticipated to be. Always consult with your orthopaedic surgeon to understand what to expect for your surgical process.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE 

Depending on your foot and ankle condition, your orthopaedic surgeon may prescribe you a surgical treatment. The treatment process involves a series of action steps that you and your doctor will undergo, in order to ensure that your healing is at its optimum. 

Ideally, you’ll undergo an examination that will identify your condition. Depending on the severity of the condition, you’ll be prescribed a surgery. After surgery, there is a healing period. Depending on your procedure, healing time may range from a few weeks, to a few months of extensive treatment. 

This article will focus on the healing process for a Total Ankle Replacement. This procedure is one of the more extensive services that your orthopaedic surgeon may perform. Once a surgery is performed, the treatment process is actually taken in stages. 

Stage 1: Limited mobility for the first two weeks after surgery to facilitate wound healing after incision. For six weeks a surgical boot or splint will be worn by the patient to assist with mobility. 

Stage 2: This stage of the journey involves restoration of mobility. Towards the latter period of the healing process, physical therapy sessions will be incorporated into the treatment to facilitate full healing and mobility. Overall healing will vary according to age and health, and the factors and time frames will be discussed with your orthopaedic surgeon.

AT HOME POST SURGICAL CARE

Once the surgery is completed, the next phases of the process involve at home care. Before the surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon will let you know what items you’ll need to have on hand to ensure that you have the optimum care at home. Limit your driving during the healing process, and arrange for someone to drive you to any critical activities such as for doctor visits and physical therapy. Ideally, you will have purchased these items before you actually have the surgery performed. This will save you from having to gather items post the surgery. Life is easier when you are prepared. 

The surgical procedure requires you to ensure that the following are in place, in order to simulate the hospital environment. With limited mobility, it will be key to ensure that as a patient, there is ready access to amenities such as: 

1. Kitchen: Since mobility will be limited, it will be ideal for you to be in a bedroom near to your kitchen. If your home is split level, if your meals can be brought to you by your spouse or children, that can also help to keep the feet still so that you can heal. 

2. Restroom: If you have an ensuite, this is ideal since the bathroom will be a few steps away from your bed. 

ITEMS YOU’LL NEED FOR POST SURGICAL CARE

1. Anti-inflammatory Treatments: The healing process takes time, and there are a few things that you can do to facilitate the healing of your ankle. Post surgery, there may be some minor swelling, which you can treat at home with some prescribed treatments or anti-inflammatories such as Tylenol or Advil. 

2. A Foot rest or Pillows to elevate the feet above the heart while you are resting. 

3. Crutches, Boots  or Splints for Mobility: These are critical for weight management after surgery. 

As with all healing processes, the healing times will vary, but your doctor will ensure that you have the appropriate healing plan. Your health is your wealth. If the post operative care is as outlined, you’ll be well on your way to a full life after completion. To your health! 

Reference: 

1. Rothman Orthopaedic Institute: https://rothmanortho.com/stories/news-and-blog/how-to-prepare-for-recovery-time-for-total-ankle-replacement

Sports Medicine And You

Image Credit: Giulio Braga Physiotherapist

“Keep your vitality. A life without health is like a river without water.” - Maxime Lagacé

The majority of injuries occur during moments of physical activity. You may be out on a jog and meet some unstable terrain that can induce injury. You may be participating in a sport and twist an ankle during a maneuver. If such an occurrence happens to you, you may be referred to a sports medicine specialist. Your orthopaedic specialist may also have a sports medicine certification. With various persons available to heal your injuries, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to be up and running should you incur a sprain or a more serious injury. 

Healthcare professionals who specialize in sports medicine, have undergone specialized training that will facilitate the restoration of your health. While the body has a natural healing mechanism, with the help of your sports medicine specialist, you will be poised to recover and be moving again as soon as possible. As experts in preventing illness and injury in active people, they are your first line of defence in keeping your body in its peak physical shape if you are an athlete. 

Who can visit a Sports Medicine specialist? 

Sports medicine specialists work with professional athletes to ensure that their bodies are in the peak physical shape. They can work with athletes to advise them how to manage their body during sporting activity, and also how to recover quickly if they are injured during a game. You may have noticed on occasion, that if your favorite athlete gets injured during a game, they may often play for a while before they actually leave the court or field. Because athletes have learned how to manage their bodies, they have successfully learned how far to push themselves in order to achieve the desired objectives before they rest. 

Young children and teens who are sports oriented, and heavily involved in sports can also seek the counsel of a sports medicine specialist. Taking the time to ensure that the body is at peak, will be one of the best investments that an athlete can make. 

In reality, there are several jobs that do have a physical toll on the body. Industrial jobs that involve building and construction are also going to place the worker in a position where they are prone to physical injury. Where heavy objects such as blocks or scaffolds are constantly being lifted, the employee may be prone to back pain. While on the job training does identify injury points during a job, the employee can seek the counsel of a sports medicine healthcare specialist if they do worry about keeping their backs and their legs in peak operating condition. 

How are Sports Medicine Specialists trained? 

In the medical realm, sports medicine is an additional specialization that is built on a base of a medical education framework. Sports medicine specialists identify their focus areas so that they can decide to optimize health from the paediatric perspective or from the adult treatment perspective. Your orthopaedic specialist may be certified in sports medicine. If you’re an athlete, identify if they can help you with your health in this regard. Other experts who are not healthcare providers may work with a sports medicine healthcare provider to provide care [1]:

• Physical therapists. They help people rehabilitate and recover from injuries.

• Certified athletic trainers. These trainers provide rehab exercise routines to help patients regain strength. They also develop conditioning programs to prevent future injury.

• Nutritionists. They may help with needed weight loss or weight gain. They can provide dietary advice to help people improve their physical functioning. 

If you have the following injuries or more, you are the prime candidate for a sports medicine consultation: 

• Ankle sprain

• Fracture

• Knee and shoulder injury

• Tendonitis

• Exercise-induced asthma

• Heat illness

• Concussion

• Eating disorder

• Cartilage injury

Your health is your wealth! If you’re an athlete, or a parent of an athlete, ensure that you align yourself with a list of the critical specialists that can assist you in the instance of an injury. While a minimal statistical occurrence, when a major injury occurs, you’ll at least be prepared! 

References: 

1. What is Sports Medicine: https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=what-is-sports-medicine-160-19

2. What Does a Sports Medicine Doctor Do?: https://study.com/articles/What_Does_a_Sports_Medicine_Doctor_Do.html

Cartilage Regeneration

Image Credit: Arthritis National Research 

The beauty about science is that it is always evolving and always changing. We are currently in an era of self healing, where the natural forces within the body are currently being utilized in order to heal the body. Within the human body, there are various elements such as the cartilage in our joints that can actually repair itself. There are known species in the animal kingdom that have been known to repair themselves if they lose a limb. Understanding these healing processes, led us to study our own healing mechanisms and allows us to identify new frontiers for the treatment of osteoarthritis. 

What is Morphangiogenesis?

The science of angiogenesis, is the process of creating new blood vessels from pre-existing units. The vessels are formed during the process of vasculogenesis, and the angiogenesis process facilitates the growth of the vessels via a series of biological mechanisms. As with all scientific processes, there is always an evolution of the angiogenesis process. 

Developed by the American orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Allan Dunn a new method of inducing angiogenesis was developed in the past decade. The process is known as morphoangiogenesis (M-A). The technology is based on the utilization of stem cells, with the process facilitating two streams of stem cells. When a site is injected with IAGH,  a growth hormone, two structures are developed. One resembles cartilage canals, the other is similar to renal glomeruli. The growth rates of these structures vary, but they produce units with capillaries that can develop into articular cartilage. 

What are the applications of Morphoangiogenesis? 

There are some parts of the body that take a long time to restore if they are damaged. These include the cartilage in the various joints in the body, particularly in the knees, ankles and elbows. During therapy of these areas, medical innovation has facilitated the utilization of growth hormones such as IAGH to help restore joints. From the above discussion, it was identified that IAGH facilitates rejuvenation because it helps to regrow the cartilage. 

With medical procedures in place that typically will remove existing cartilage, and allow the growth of a scar tissue called Fibrocartilage, IAGH facilitates the regeneration of the originally tissue. Fibrocartilage is weaker than its original cartilage, so it is in the best interest of both the physician and the patient to restore the healthier tissue. For persons with arthritis, cartilage regeneration is an option that your orthopaedic surgeon will consider during your arthritis treatment. 

From the website of Dr Dunn, the following are some frequently asked questions that patients may have about cartilage regeneration via IAGH induced Morphoangiogenesis: 

1. What is the success rate of IAGH treatment? Based on significant measurable increase in motion, decrease of pain, and increase of joint space, the following percentages give some idea of the success rate:

   • Ankles 95%

   • Knees 86%

   • Hips 50%

   • Elbows 95%

   • Shoulders 75%

   • Thumbs 75%

2. What are the beneficial effects of IAGH treatment? Decrease or complete abatement of pain, swelling, heat and stiffness in the treated joint. Measurable increase in the space between the bone surfaces. The bone on bone condition often improves and space re-appears - up to a 4 millimeters between the bones. Several patients have been followed over five (5) years, and their symptoms have not recurred. In several cases of osteoarthritis of the knee, the bow-legged deformity was reversed and the alignment of their knees WAS restored to normal.
   

3. Do you need to continue receiving IAGH injections? Some patients require booster injections of IAGH ONCE A YEAR OR ONCE EVERY 2 YEARS.
   

4. What are the side effects of the IAGH treatment? There were a few side effects and they were mild and reversible. There has RARELY been pain or swelling at the injection site. TOTAL JOINT SURGERY CAN HAVE SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS SUCH AS INFECTIONS, DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS, PULMONARY EMBOLISM, and DEATHS.
   

DISTRACTION ARTHROPLASTY AS AN ALTERNATE ARTHRITIS TREATMENT 

Ankle arthritis is a condition that is prevalent in young, active individuals predominantly. Via excessive usage of the joint, wear and tear can be induced, causing the joint to weaken. Because the healing ability of the body is slower than that of many animals, intervention has to be induced in order to facilitate the appropriate conditions that will enable change. The procedure that enables the ankle joints to heal in a natural fashion over a period of months is known as distraction arthroplasty. 

As a procedure that requires surgical intervention, ask your foot and ankle surgeon about this procedure if you feel that it will be appropriate for your condition. Your consultation will involve a series of tests, inclusive of X-rays, to identify the state of degradation of the ankle joint. If you suffer from mild arthritis, distraction arthroplasty may not be ideal for you, but more advanced cases are ideal candidates for the procedure. Via a series of mechanical braces, the stresses experienced by the ankle joint are alleviated, and the cells in the region are given a chance to regenerate themselves and restore the joint to its former capabilities. 

Mechanism of Action 

The mechanism of action of distraction arthroplasty, is to unload the ankle. The ankle as a hinge joint, is an amazing biological engineering marvel. As a weight-bearing joint, the ankle is designed to withstand up to 5.5 times the body weight of an individual. Along with the stout ligaments, the steady control of the region is maintained. With time and activity, slight changes in alignment of the ankle (talus displacement) can generate up to a 42% decrease in available joint contact area. With such changes, the cartilage that is exposed will experience higher compressive forces at pressures that it was not originally designed for, and it will ultimately degenerate. The distraction arthroplasty treatment is a series of mechanical braces that aims to restore the original alignment of the bones in the ankle, and facilitate a restoration of the cartilage. 

Unloading the ankle, relieves it of the external pressures and allows natural healing. With reduced pressure and more blood circulation to the area, healing will be facilitated. Alternate therapies for arthritis include fusions and complete ankle replacements. Consultations with your orthopaedic surgeon will determine the path that is best for you. With the external fixator adjoined to the bones via series of pins and hinges, the ankle is allowed the following in a combination with adjunct surgeries: 

*Stability

*Range of Motion - patients will be mobile during their treatment and can bear their full weight

*Cartilage Repair 

*Exercise of the area will be permitted in order to facilitate motion, and joint repair. 

In order to facilitate the attachment of the fixator, your orthopaedic surgeon will perform two procedures. The first is a surgery, that facilitates the installation of the frame to the tibia (leg bone) and finally to the foot. You can envision the frame as an external scaffold around the critical areas that need healing. Via a series of fused wires and pins, the frame is built. With an attached hinge, the required motion is facilitated. If necessary, your orthopaedic surgeon will conduct further ankle joint modifications that will facilitate healing. If ligaments need to be loosened, this procedure will also be facilitated. 

How long is the Distraction Arthroplasty Treatment?  

The distraction arthroplasty treatment lasts for ten to twelve weeks, or approximately three months. Via a second procedure, your orthopaedic surgeon will remove the external fixator, and apply a cast to hold the foot in place.  

Reference Articles for Distraction Arthroplasty: 

1. http://legacy.aofas.org/footcaremd/treatments/Pages/Distraction-Arthroplasty.aspx

2. https://www.hss.edu/files/Ankle-Distraction-Arthroplasty-Indications-Techniques-Outcomes.pdf

Reference Articles for Morphoangiogenesis: 

1. Morphoangiogenesis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/11969306/

2. IAGH Mechanism: http://www.iagh.com/

3. Angiogenesis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angiogenesis

Joint Replacement And Reconstruction

Image Credits: coleofduty.com

“Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship.”- Buddha

There are various factors that can lead to the development of joint pain. With time, our joints can develop stresses and strains that lead to the wearing away of the critical elements such as the cartilage, that keep the joint operating smoothly. Natural conditions such as aging, or even activities such as sports can trigger joint pain and ultimately a wearing away of the joint elements. 

With joint pain, patients often experience difficulty in the execution of critical tasks such as walking, climbing stairs or inclines, or even motion after sitting for a long period of time. With the advancement of orthopaedic technologies, patients do not have to worry about joint pain for an extended period of time. There are various procedures that can be utilized by your doctor in order to treat your existing condition. You do not have to live with a painful condition. There is always something that you can do to change it. 

In the orthopaedic realm, the two surgical options that exist to alleviate joint pain are joint reconstruction and joint replacement surgery. There is an age old debate about which one is better for the patient. Fortunately, we do have criteria that will enable us to identify a decision point that will determine which of the processes will work best for us. Some of the critical parameters that are involved in the determination of the appropriate procedure include: 

1. Age - depending on your age one procedure will be more feasible than the other.

2. Weight - depending on your weight and the extent of damage to the joint, it may be lucrative for one procedure over the next. 

3. Muscle Strength - this will impact joint integrity

A decision matrix outlined by your orthopaedic surgeon will determine which of the methods will work best for you. Let us now delve into the two methodologies and identify which one could work best for your joint pain. 

Joint Reconstruction

As the name suggests, the joint reconstruction process involves the rebuilding of the joint. New surgical procedures are being developed over time that will optimize this procedure and make it a prime contender to joint reconstruction. Where possible, skilled surgeons do make an effort to salvage a limb or a joint, instead of having to replace the part. This process could take place either in wholes, or in parts of the joint cavity. Orthopaedic surgeons will often determine their plan of action. Joint reconstruction has the advantages of: 

1. Temporary Relief - in terms of the procedure, joint reconstruction can provide relief. The robustness of the procedure compared to joint replacement is to a lesser extent. 

2. Recovery times however, are usually shorter and easier. There will also be an associated cost to the procedure which will vary in comparison to the joint replacement. 

The parts of the body that are often treated via reconstructive surgery are places like the ankle, elbow, shoulder, knee and the hip. 

Joint Replacement Surgery

Depending on the severity of the joint pain experienced, the severity of the paint and the extent of joint degradation may result in the orthopaedic surgeon suggesting a total joint replacement. A joint replacement can keep a patient pain free for up to ten years. This could be the best way to get rid of the pain for good. The ideal candidates for joint replacement surgery typically are those persons who are in the later stages of osteoarthritis. The surgical process is often identified as a last resort. The knees are key target areas for joint replacement surgery. 

During this process, the replacement parts for the joints are built from prosthetic biomaterials. Much like orthopaedic scaffolds, the parts will be a fusion of metal and plastic components. 

Once the surgeon has completed the joint replacement surgery, patients usually see results after the appropriate post operative care and healing procedures. 

If you are a candidate that experiences pain due to osteoarthritis, inflammatory conditions such as gout, or even trauma either of these methods will work well for you. An orthopaedic consult will usually determine the path of best healing. 

Reference Articles: 

1. Joint Reconstruction and Replacement: https://www.orthomedctr.com/joint-reconstruction-and-replacement.php

2. Joint Reconstruction Versus Replacement: https://www.movementortho.com/2017/03/31/joint-reconstruction-versus-replacement/

3. Joint Reconstruction Vs Replacement: https://www.advancedboneandjoint.com/joint-reconstruction-vs-joint-replacement/

Re-Socialization: How Will The Lockdown Be Phased Out?

Image Credit: Royal Present Embroidery

The good news is that the quarantine won’t last forever! With that said, there are a few things that we can all expect as a globe as life returns to normalcy. As restrictions ease across the globe and borders open once more there are few things that you can anticipate in the process of re-socializing after a few months of a partial lockdown. Depending on your location in the world, the standards are actually different, but the restoration initiatives are congruent in all jurisdictions. 

As a start, if you are in the process of researching the standards of your region, you can check your regional news sources. For a global perspective, the WHO is ideal for an overview. As a global phenomenon the coronavirus impact has actually started to subside. The health and government authorities are actually in the process of identifying how best to restore services and business practices on a global scale. 

The restoration process is designed to actually ensure that full restoration, with little or no episodes of relapse are possible. With the curve flattening, it is time to anticipate change. What can we expect? The change will be gradual, but definite. According to a plan outlined by John Hopkins University medical experts. 

Phase One: Flatten the Curve

From a global perspective, the current phase of the Coronavirus is what the globe is experiencing. Social distancing is the order of the current day. The exceptions to the rule were trips for essentials. Within your own neighborhoods, you are free to take walks. Essential services included: 

“Businesses that provide essential health and safety services have stayed open, including grocery and hardware stores, pharmacies, hospitals, medical centers, banks and gas stations.”

Phase Two: Lockdown begins to lift

The future anticipated condition. Once the relevant authorities have given the go-ahead, the baseline conditions that will allow the change will be:

• The number of daily cases steadily drops for at least two weeks.

• Hospitals and medical centers can operate outside of crisis mode to care for all COVID-19 patients.

• Coronavirus testing becomes widely available for at-risk healthcare workers.

Phase 3: Open more businesses and activities

Once the cases are significantly reduced as mandated in the section above, the next initiatives will be to re-open the businesses that were classified as non-essential in the eyes of the medical and government. Any locations where individuals congregate for extended periods of time such as salons, parks gyms, churches and movie theatres and nail parlours will be allowed to re-open. 

Phase 4: Herd immunity or a vaccine will help restore normalcy

The aim of the quarantine is to ensure that the curve of the coronavirus expansion is flattened. With the re-socialization exercises the intention is to ensure that once the society is allowed to return to their locations, that there will be no relapse. Vaccines of various forms are currently in the process of being approved by health authorities such as the FDA. 

There will be initiatives that will ensure that individuals have access to vaccinations that will allow them to boost their ability to be immune to this current strain of the Coronavirus. 

Change will come. Just stay safe and stay hopeful!! 

Reference Article 

Coronavirus Lockdown Is Starting To End: https://www.cnet.com/health/coronavirus-lockdown-is-starting-to-end-heres-how-lifting-quarantine-will-work/

Smart Implants and BioMaterials

Image Credits: OrthoStreams 

“Health is of paramount importance, but many people do not make eating well and exercising a priority until their health deteriorates. You must live in a balanced state so that you can be at your optimal level in all aspects of your life. Below is a list of motivating health quotes to help you live a healthy balanced life.”-Anonymous

The orthopaedic world is changing with every passing, month, year and decade. Over the past few months, we’ve actually taken the time to highlight a few innovations that are shaping the way your orthopaedic surgeon will provide you with the appropriate health treatment for your condition. The internet of things, an evolution of the globe's smart interconnected devices, has highlighted that we are in a position where our implants are also now smart. At this point, in time, we can take the time to imagine how this will be of benefit either to ourselves, or even to people that we love. 

Smart implants are implantable devices that are designed to be integrated into an implant. Under the right conditions they remain dormant, gather data and monitor patient health. If anything changes within the patient, they will then detect the change and alert the relevant officials of what will be needed in order for the appropriate treatments to be facilitated. These changes can help improve the implant design in the future and also help with the post operative care. Health officials do anticipate that these systems will enable more longevity of the implant, and facilitate a health care system that will save money for the patients. 

While applications of the smart implants have found their way to areas such as the knee, for knee arthroplasty the possibilities still remain endless. The parameters that these devices will measure include: pressure, force, strain, displacement, proximity and temperature. With time, it is anticipated that the smart implant will become part of daily clinical practice. 

APPLICATIONS OF SMART IMPLANTS

As with all technologies, there is always an introductory curve. The industry anticipates that this wave will take place in major waves. 

These four waves are [2]:

Wave #1 – Smart Tools in the OR: feedback or data given to surgeon real-time.

Wave #2 – Smart Diagnostics on Demand: accessed by Doctor or nurse at follow-up visits.

Wave #3 – Smart Diagnostics by Exception: sent by the implant to Doctor or nurse when an alert is triggered.

Wave #4 – Treatment by Exception: drug delivered by implant when an alert is triggered.

As of the time of writing, we are currently in phase one of this transition phase.

With all technologies, orthopaedic implant development does take a considerable amount of research and development, just to ensure that the implants are serving their purpose and also are very robust in the human biological system. Knowing what is happening inside the body is always important for health monitoring. 

Technological advancement in sensor development 

When it comes to sensor development smart implants are actually designed to detect: 

*poor bone ingrowth

* infection

* subsidence or dislocation once an implant is in place.

Nanotechnology is facilitating these functions, as well as working towards incorporating new functionalities that the current sensors can’t yet address. These additional features include detection of the vibration of the prosthetics environment. Joints are mechanical structures, and it is always a good idea to ensure that they are as robust as possible. This parameter will give the surgeon an insight into the joint, so that they can know if any adjustments to the internal tension are to be made. Research is also being done to develop biomaterials that are resistant to infection. 

Current research has indicated that the devices themselves have smart interactive elements that recognize malignant organisms in close proximity to the implant. These elements will then release an antibiotic to the area and facilitate the healing process. With a system that is very pH aware, the mechanism is able to adapt to the changes and keep the implant and its surroundings very healthy. 

Developments are currently ongoing, and there is much to look forward to. With cost being the current deterrent, with time, once these hurdles are overcome, access to the smart devices will be readily available to everyone. The health care system also has to adapt to developing the ideal compensation plan for the procedure once it is installed in the patient. 

With time, we will expand on these smart implants. These are the future that we are looking for in orthopaedics. With access to data, information can be generated, and with the information better health decisions can be made. 

References: 

1. Smart Implants: https://www.healio.com/orthopedics/business-of-orthopedics/news/print/orthopedics-today/%7B27cc9f09-766a-4e1b-bb00-9277dd8edf5d%7D/smart-implants-to-provide-biofeedback-measure-joint-loads-detect-infection

2. Dovepress: https://www.dovepress.com/smart-implants-in-orthopedic-surgery-improving-patient-outcomes-a-revi-peer-reviewed-article-IEH

3. OrthoStreams: https://orthostreams.com/disruptive-trend-in-orthopedics-the-smart-implant-revolution/

Getting Crafty During the Quarantine - Tap Into Your Right Brain

“Imagination is the preview of life’s coming attractions”- Albert Einstein

According to the Sarah Model of Change, there’s a point during every transition that acceptance is reached. We have been in quarantine for a while, and it’s amazing the things that people can learn to do while they’re keeping busy. With your ability to work from home, you actually have a few extra hours in the day that you can utilize to tap into your creative side.

The mind is a very amazing thing. The world instills in you a program that is very logic driven. Many of the things that you do at work require the utilization of your left brain or the logic center of your being. Creativity actually gets stifled if you’re in a position where all you are doing is attending meetings, and making decisions all day.

What the quarantine has done for us, is allow us to slow down, and in the process as you release that ability to overly think, there’s a point at which your creative side will actually start to evolve once again. With the quarantine period in swing, one good idea is to actually get around to doing all those projects that you wanted to do, and thought you never had the time to do. There’s a law of compensation in the Universe and as long as you’re aware of this…in those interims that you have a break to do things, create your world and create beautiful things.

With many stores closed in the interim, utilize mediums like Amazon to order yourself some craft supplies. If you have children, more often than not, you will have items that you purchased for them that you can take the time to actually utilize in this current interim. If that doesn’t work…start the process of recycling so that you can turn your trash to treasure, and keep yourself busy.

GLASS BOTTLE RECYCLING

Image Credit: ForeverLuxury.net

One thing that many persons are doing a lot of during this quarantine is drinking wine and taking the time to actually enjoy their alcohol. Stress does accumulate during a pandemic, and at the end of the day its always nice to be able to sit back with a glass of wine, and just enjoy a cocktail or even just a red wine. Since the majority of us are home more, the occasions to drink wine do accumulate, and with time you find yourself with a few empty bottles on your hands. What can you do with these bottles in the interim? You can actually recycle them.

In the image above, a really nice soap dispenser was created via the utilization of an empty rum bottle. The beauty about rum bottles is that they are really well designed. The shape alone, is one that is antique in nature, and instead of throwing away the bottles once you’ve finished drinking them, you can utilize them in spaces like your kitchen, in order to spruice up the space. For this DIY project you will simply need to:

a) Soak your empty wine or rum bottle. The clear ones are nice, but if you want to you can use a bottle that matches your decor. Green or brown bottles also work nicely. Once the bottle is soaked for about an hour, you should be able to actually remove the label, create your own label, or simply leave it as is.

b) Utilize a spout. Many bottles in your home will come with a dispenser so you can always take one from the original container, and then fit it with your bottle.

c) Fill with a liquid of your choice. This can include shampoo, dishwashing liquid, conditioner.

Once you’re finished, you can then place the bottle at a space that will be elevated by your spruiced up bottle. Your kitchen counter will love you for not placing on it a plastic bottle of dishwashing liquid and you’ll feel more inspired as you’re washing your dishes or washing your hair.

This is just one idea that you can utilize in order to keep your mind occupied. What the brain will want during this time is some way to keep itself in a progressive state, even if you’re confined to the household. You can take a break during your lunchtime and do something like this.

Our aim with these quarantine blog articles is to keep a calm mind during the interim. Stay engaged, stay creative and you’ll surprise yourself re what you can create.

For more craft projects, feel free to check the references below:

Rum Bottle DIY: https://www.foreverluxury.net/post/another-quarantine-production-the-bottle-collection

Upcycling Glass: https://www.foreverluxury.net/post/upcycling-to-add-pizzazz-to-your-home-space

Orthopaedics and 3D/4D Bioprinting

Image Credit: Hospimedica.com

In the Orthopaedic realm, there are various advances that are taking place to ensure that your recovery and health are kept at its optimum peak. In the past decade, one emerging trend that is being captured under the umbrella of Industry 4.0 is the advent of 3D printing and 4D printing. The two technologies are different, and this blog article will delve into the details of how they will benefit you in your health journey, should you ever require orthopaedic care involving joint replacement. 

3-D Printing

3-D printing utilizes a sophisticated computer-aided design (CAD) digital model of an object to create its physical equivalent. An object is printed layer by layer until the object itself is formed. Described as an additive process, the 3-D printing process applies layering technologies in order to create the final shape. Operating much like an inkjet printer, targeted layers made of the desired material are generated. 

3-D Printing in Orthopaedics

Within the orthopaedic realm, there are several items that are manufactured by 3-D printing technology. These can include joint implants, and even the surgical instruments that are utilized during procedures. 

Some surgeons utilize the 3-D printing technologies prior to the surgical process, in order to visualize the procedure before they actually perform on the patients. If some fractures or deformities are difficult to process prior to the actual surgery, a model of the internal state of the sites will be helpful to the medical team. The models will act as great guides in the operating room. 

Implants

The process of manufacturing implants has to undergo some regulatory hurdles, but in the process of the evolution of the field, surgical instruments are well on their way to be rapidly and readily available. 

4-D Printing

3-D printing as a technology is currently evolving. Models manufactured by this technology are currently rigid, with limited possibilities of changing the shape and size of the object once it's been manufactured. Since living beings are growing and evolving, during the manufacturing process, there is also the desire for parts to be developed which can grow and change shape with time. 4-D technology has the means to facilitate this desire. 

Smart materials are currently developed that have the property to be flexible and to change shape and size with time. Since orthopaedic technologies will require parts such as artificial bones that can adapt and grow in individuals such as children. 4-D technology facilitates this requirement. The parts of the smart material have the ability to self-assemble and change shape with time. Influenced by parameters such as temperature/humidity/pressure the form will adapt to the internal environment of the patient. 

In summary, since 3-D printing generates static output, 4-D technology is an upgrade that will be able to adapt to their environment. Doctors can now take advantage of the material properties of the smart material, in order to treat any ailments. During the development process, a model is created that changes shape and properties with temperature. Once printed, the object will then be able to adjust itself with time. The printing of Orthopaedic parts is now optimized, and more suited to the genetic match of the individual. 

As technology advances, accurate replicas of patient parts that adapt to the body will be more and more possible. With advanced technologies, you can look forward to endless possibilities in terms of your health care. 

References: 

4D printing and its applications in Orthopaedics: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6128312/

How 3-D printing could fundamentally change orthopedics:

https://www.healio.com/orthopedics/business-of-orthopedics/news/print/orthopedics-today/%7B2adc3321-13dc-4890-9ac1-b85bf8e3b55e%7D/how-3-d-printing-could-fundamentally-change-orthopedics

Telehealth and Virtual Reality in 2020

Image Credit: PatientPop

The internet is one of the pivotal tools that has impacted our modern lives. As a tool that enables people, services and products to be interconnected, it is one of the most life changing things that has changed our standard of living. Many of the things that we spent hours doing, are now accomplished at the click of a button. Just to name a few examples: 

1. Banking transactions: Standing in line at the bank is something that most persons are not thrilled about having to do. With the advent of technologies like telebanking you can now do things like pay bills and order items online from retailers, all from the comfort of your sofa. 

2. Virtual conferences: With COVID-19 in full effect now, many persons are practicing social distancing. While the physical presence of your friends and family may be missed, with the push of a button you can still see them. 

These are just two examples. With the advent of the COVID-19 virus, there are various enterprises that are practicing social distancing and encouraging tele-facilities of critical services. Telehealth is one of those spheres that is now gaining traction. 

Initially, within the healthcare industry online telehealth access involved websites such as WebMD, that acted like online medical references. Many individuals, predominantly millennials, took to these sites as their sources of information. A website is not a very interactive medium, and as such in the realm of telehealth, a means for communication with real personnel was actually developed. 

With the current healthcare system overwhelmed by an influx of COVID-19 patients, the ideal for the rest of the population involves utilizing more passive mediums for dealing with their medical needs. Telehealth will be the way to have your general primary care needs addressed. While we all practice the art and science of staying at home, it will be in our best interest to take advantage of technology. 

What is telehealth?

Telehealth facilitates the utilization of online communication technologies to facilitate the remote management of your healthcare. The format can vary from online conference calls to the utilization of a mobile app to communicate with your medical team or even to schedule your appointments or medicine intake. 

If you have a medical condition, telehealth can facilitate: 

1. A health log that notes your critical parameters. You can do things like calculate your calorific intake, heart beat and even your blood pressure. With a connected system, your medical system will be able to track your performance and even inform you if there’s an issue. 

2. Ordering of your medicines online once they’ve been prescribed. 

3. Get reminders of when you’ll need certain critical appointments for preventative care. 

Telehealth services ensure that [1]: 

• Health care is accessible to people who live in rural or isolated communities.

• Services more readily available or convenient for people with limited mobility, time or transportation options.

• You have access to medical specialists.

• You have improved communication and coordination of care among members of a health care team and a patient.

• Adequate support for self-management of health care.

While the differing services that each telehealth medium provides is different, the intentions to provide you with high quality service are the primary intention. With a little due diligence, you’ll be able to find within your local area, the critical services that will be available to you remotely. Additionally, your health care provider may in some instances be able to provide you with telehealth services,so that you don’t have to go in house. 

Be mindful during this time. It is very important for you to ensure that you are providing the healthcare sector with at least stress as possible. As the curve flattens, we can do our part to facilitate this shift. As a gentle reminder, you can handle the minor health care matters at home for the interim.

Reference Articles: 

Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/telehealth/art-20044878

Wellness Tips For Working From Home During COVID-19

Image Credit: EveryDayHealth.com 

“Be careful what you set your heart upon - for it will surely be yours.” - James A. Baldwin

With the majority of us working from home these COVID days, we all received something that we subsconsciously thought about when we were getting up, driving the half an hour to forty minutes to work, somewhat dreading that morning meeting, and then chugging through once 8 am arrived. That desire to “Work From Home”. Reality six months ago did not permit us to do this, so we did what we had to put food on the table and prepare for our retirements. Fast forward to 2020, and VPN is your new best friend. The majority of the world doesn't know what it really means to work from home. The concept is very new. With time however, we’ve all learned to adjust and are now pretty much in a state where we’re figuring out how best to balance work and life. 

This article is designed to be a survival guide to help you through this period of “rest”. Now that you are in a flexible work schedule, you can actually make the interim an enjoyable one. Your home...is now your haven, your office, and your entertainment center fused into one. The key to a successful quarantine is time management. Knowing how best to demark your 24 hours will ensure that you fulfill all the critical essentials, and still manage to get some much needed work done. Let’s delve into a few things that you can do to ensure that your time at home is not only restful, but highly productive. 

1. Keep a consistent sleep schedule: The brain is primed for progress. If you’re working from home, that means that you’re doing the majority of what you did in your office in a virtual space. With your commute eliminated, that means that your start time should be the same as it was when you were working. Maintain the same schedule that you kept when you were in the office. If you start at 8 am...make sure that you are up at the normal time, that you’re showered and dressed. While you may not be required to wear formal wear in your home space, dress business casual. If your body is aware that you’re primed to work, and are dressed in attire that is not indicative of a relaxed environment, you feel as if you’re at work, and start getting things done. 

2. Create a designated work space: If you have a home office, then work from that space. Identify a way that you can create the formality of the work environment in your home. If you don’t have a home office, you can create one. Utilize a spare table that you have in your home, and simply ensure that you have it primed with accessories like books, your computer, some stationery and work essentials, as well as a comfortable chair. If you want to add a pop of color, add a faux plant. Cacti are particularly good for the desk.

3. Make some time for self-care. The reason that we have been stressing self care so much over the past few weeks is because being confined can be a stressful event. As people we are used to our freedom, and the temporary removal of certain liberties can play its toll on your mind. To keep yourself in a good frame of mind, you can take the time to actually do things like have a more leisurely cup of coffee, tea or snacks across the days. Stay hydrated, and keep a bottle of water by your desk. It’ll help you greatly as you motivate yourself to get things done. 

4. Set a work schedule, and stick to it. When the work day ends, take the time to do things like go for a walk in your neighborhood, attend your local park (more allowable in suburbs) and take the time to actually defragment. When you’re away from the home, but still close by, it will allow you to give your mind the illusion of a change of scenery. With the evening commute eliminated, you can now use this time to actually do things like exercise. Work out by walking, or if you have an at home gym...you won’t have to be fighting the traffic in order to attend your workout. 

Now that you’re your own CEO to some extent, take the time to actually revel in this freedom. Instead of feeling limited and restricted, embrace your freedom and just enjoy your journey. During your lunch hour you can do things like water your plants, take in the fresh air and just revel in the fact that you have a little more time to yourself for the next few months. Many people actually look at this opportunity to make a career change if they’re not happy with the job they have. 

For those of you with children, the responsibility of home schooling may partially be upon you. While places like universities are simply utilizing distance education and utilizing mediums like alternate ways to test their students instead of having them come in-house for examinations, many parents with toddlers are now left to take care of their own children’s education for an interim. Take the time to: 

1. Create a curriculum for your children. Many parents who homeschool actually take the time to actually download the curriculum for their children and prepare lessons for their children to utilize. The children will then have a program to work with, and you as a parent won’t have to be wondering if they’re falling behind on their education because you will be able to control what they are learning. 

2. Schedule some play time activities for your children: What seems to be trending now for children is allowing them to colour on anything from your glass windows to placing their colouring papers on the wall, taping up the papers, and simply allowing them to colour while standing up. 

2020 is the year of ownership. Take this time to actually create a year that you’ll appreciate. Once normalcy resumes, you’ll be wondering where this time went. Many people actually work from home, and have happily and confidently done this for years. In your memoirs, you can write about what you did during this time. 

Orthobiologics

Image Credits: Medscape

With advancements in medicine comes the responsibility to conduct clinical trials to better understand how these therapies might help and in what conditions.”- Dr Steven Sampson

Orthobiologics is an evolving theme that will be relevant in 2020 and beyond. Science is evolving to accept self healing, or the facilitation of healing via the body’s own natural mechanisms. Orthobiologics utilizes natural healing elements to facilitate or enhance the restoration of wounds, torn or injured muscles, ligaments and bones. With faster healing times, individuals are able to return to normalcy faster. Scientific advances in the development of biomaterials, have helped to improve the products that are available on the local market. As science develops, the ability to develop products that have an improvement in biocompatibility with the desired recipients, is leading to an increased demand in these products.

The healing arts are evolving from a symptom based treatment, to an internal root cause treatment. The transition is warranted because many of the current therapies in medicine often have adverse effects, that are avoidable via natural methods. All fields are evolving, and as medicine advances, so too does the final healing result. When it comes to the human bone structures, healing is a process that is still being studied, and often takes a long time to facilitate if there is a serious injury or fracture to a bone in particular.

In the current health regime, with a renewed understanding of the healing mechanisms of the body, there are natural and artificial substances which orthopaedic surgeons are using to accelerate the rate of healing. These substances, are known as Orthobiologics. With their abilities to heal bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments, orthobiologics is the path forward to a life of accelerated healing. Consult with your orthopaedic surgeon, to identify if you’ll be a suitable candidate for this cutting edge medical innovation. 

How do our bodies heal? 

Designed to self heal, our body’s healing mechanisms are facilitated by healing agents that attend to an injury site. Blood is the agent that facilitates the healing process. Additionally, there are three orthobiologic substances which research has identified is key to aid the healing process. 

These three agents are: 

1. the cell matrix which helps to heal bone gaps

2. proteins for regulation of the healing process

3. and stem cells for regeneration of the relevant cells that will heal the injury

While all three elements are critical, stem cells are the very versatile agents that are finding their relevance in global healing of the body. They have the ability to generate a multitude of cells, and facilitate healing. The integration of all these elements will ensure that injuries are able to restore to normalcy. 

Types of Orthobiologic Materials: 

As orthobiologics evolves, there are various natural and synthetically derived materials that are used in the orthobiologic process. When there is an injury, often the site must be protected by a special scaffolding that provides support and mobility. Injected into the scaffolding site will be the relevant healing agent such as stem cells. Materials such as Bone Grafts (autograft/allograft), involve the use of bone fragments to support the injured bones. Bone fragment sources vary, and in some instances are harvested from cadavers, or even 3D printed. Alternatively, with the advent of materials science, there are compounds such as calcium phosphate which can be used to fill gaps in bone fragments.  

How do the growth elements help to heal? 

As medicine advances via fields such as genetic engineering, the body’s healing processes can be accelerated with increased knowledge. On its own, the body takes a very long time to heal structures such as bones. This is often why healing fractures requires minimal mobility via casting and arthroplasty. Via science and technology, mechanisms of healing are now much more easily understood, and the levers that facilitate healing are now being manipulated. While not one hundred percent effective, research has shown favorable adaptation of the body to the injection of healing agents such as stem cells and growth factor proteins. With good blood circulation in the area, the two agents work in tandem with each other to repair the injured site. Via innate intelligence, the cells will regenerate the relevant cells needed to heal bones, muscles and ligaments. 

The future of orthobiologics is still unfolding, and from the current vantage point, the possibilities look endless. Consult with your orthopaedic surgeon to identify if you are a suitable candidate for this new wave of medical treatment. Your health is your wealth, if there are new and better methods, take advantage of them. 

Things To Do During The Quarantine

Image Credits: Activekids.com

At this point in 2020, we as a global collective, are responsible for our own lives. With limited access to group activities, access to places like theme parks, hotels, concerts and even schools, it can become difficult to stay in an energetic and happy state. 

As we all practice social distancing to some extent (most persons actually do still work and still shop in physical stores) there are plenty of things that those of us who either work from home, or are homeschooling their children can now do. 

You are responsible for your days, and while it's easy to fall into the trap of over relaxing, you can put your body and mind in a low energy frame of mind. Your mind is the most important part of your body. Keep it engaged on a daily basis. Here is a list of things that you can do to keep yourself and your family entertained in the quarantine period. Quarantine won’t last forever, but while you’re in transition, you might as well enjoy the time! 

1. Build a Robot: The world is changing towards automation. If you have young children, you can keep them entertained by engaging them in activities such as building a robot. Lego systems has a program called Mindstorms that teaches children how to build robots. There are plenty of kits available for both adults and children. 

2. Start a journal or blog. This can be about anything that interests you. With the advent of the internet, now’s a good time to either document your experiences of any critical skill or artform you may have. You can actually start to write your memoirs at this time. With an extra two hours per day, you can actually write a book in two months.  

3. Learn a new skill: Computers are tools that many people underutilize. Dust off your keyboard, and google how to type, how to project manage, or any critical skill that will be applicable to your job when you’re back in full time work. 

4. Host a virtual happy hour. Many things that you did with your co-workers you can actually do via platforms such as zoom. Organize a group chat, have every one pour their wine, and just catch up. 

5. Read a book. Leaders are readers. With the work and family week full, you can actually take the time to catch up on some reading. Since you don’t have to commute to work for a while, you can actually read in the time that you’d be travelling. 

6. Watch movies that you haven’t gotten a chance to. With streaming services like Netflix, you are in a good position to catch up on series. 

7. Download Duolingo, or a similar app, and teach yourself a foreign language.

8. Plan The Future. The beauty about downtime is that you’ll be in a position to actually create a future that you love. If you weren’t happy in your current job, now’s the time to send off all those job applications. 

9. Craft. If you haven’t had a chance to finish your tree house, your green house, your knitting, or any additional things that are necessary to the household, now’s a good time to do it. 

10. Go on a virtual tour. There are lots of places like concert halls, theme parks and museums that will allow you to go on a virtual tour of their properties. 

11. Work out at home or in your neighborhood if you live in a suburb. Try out at-home aerobics or yoga videos. Consider downloading a fitness app with curated workout playlists.

12. Take a bubble bath (bonus: Add a glass of wine). Self care is the key to a successful and peaceful mental state. 

13. Take time to reflect: What have you accomplished in the last year? What goals are you setting for yourself in the next year?

14.  Declutter your living spaces. While you wait, now’s a good time to tackle all the things that have been accumulating in your basement. Clear out the family room and camp indoors with all blankets, popcorn and scary movies.

15. Catch up on home maintenance activities. Start gardening.  Finally get around to fixing that broken door knob and loose tiles or cleaning scuffed up walls. Draw inspiration from people like Martha Stewart. 

16. Unless you’re planning to order delivery on food, now’s a good time to actually cook. Learn new recipes that you never thought of previously, or have loved forever and just didn’t know how to cook. Go on a health kick and learn how to cook new recipes with ingredients you may not be using already, from miso to tahini.

17. Make a list of things for which you are grateful. An attitude of gratitude for the things that you are grateful for such as a home, a garden, your family will make you more appreciative of the little things. 

18. Have your own wine tasting of whatever bottles you have at home. Create a wine and cheese platter, learn about the origins of the wine and allow yourself to become a sommelier. 

19.  Now’s a good time to look at your budget. With the money that you have saved from being in quarantine, what can you invest in? 

20. Plan your future vacations. With a year “off” 2021 will definitely be a year that will facilitate more mobility once we all heal. Plan where you want to go...and create your visionboard to go with this desire. 

This list is by no means exhaustive, but it’s one good way that you can allow yourself to enjoy your life. Life has a way of restoring itself. 

Custom Made Orthotics - Are They Right For You?

“True silence is the rest of the mind, and is to the spirit what sleep is to the body, nourishment and refreshment.” William Penn

The feet are a very strong, yet delicate mechanism when any area is compromised. People tend to neglect their feet during those instances when all is well, but when problems arise they are the part of the body that you’ll be paying the most attention to. Foot care then, in a preventative format will be critical.

When it comes to your foot care, it is always a good idea to consult with your orthopaedic surgeon. When it comes to foot and ankle biomechanics, the complex nature of your mechanical design is such that where necessary, it will be necessary to get the professional assistance in order to correct any underlying issues. For instance, one of the aspects of your assessment that your specialist will check for will be your gait. There are various factors that can cause your weight distribution and mobility to shift. 

While it might be tempting to self diagnose yourself whenever you have a foot condition, if they do persist, you may consider the possibility of allowing yourself to receive a custom made orthotic. 

When you walk into places like pharmacies, you may find inserts that can alleviate your foot conditions. These are generic, and in some instances may help your feet, but not to their full potential. Depending on your condition, custom made insoles will be critical to your recovery. 

As you traverse local malls, it is often common for you to find sales men in shopping malls that are able to scan your feet using lasers. You can even order moulds online that allow you to create impressions of your feet, and provide you with seeming solutions to your ailing feet. While tempting, it is always best to seek the assistance of a specialist. 

How do I know if I need Orthotics? 

After a series of consultations with your orthopaedic surgeon, you will be thoroughly examined and prescribed orthotics as part of your treatment regimen. In acute situations your orthotics may be prescribed as your primary treatment, but where necessary they will be incorporated into a treatment plan to assist you with overall recovery. 

What exactly do Orthotics treat? 

Orthotics are recommended for conditions where feet aren’t ideally aligned. Individuals with flat feet for instance, are prescribed with orthotics to ensure that their feet alignment and arch development is enhanced. With the additional support added to the feet, the weight distribution of an individual is sustained via the critical cushioning that is provided to the feet. Where possible, orthotics are effective as preventative measures against eventual surgery. Early detection will be critical to facilitate this however, so take the time to ensure that you’re getting your regular check ups.

What type of orthotics can I expect on the market? 

There are different types of orthotics that your orthopaedic surgeon can prescribe for your condition. With a wide variety of materials available for your treatment, your orthotic will be custom made depending on your diagnosis.These treatments include: 

1. Arch Supports

2. Insoles 

3. Heel liners 

4. Foot cushions 

Medical innovation is an activity that is constantly being optimized. At the time of writing of this article, carbon fiber, plastic and even silicone and cloth bases are utilized as materials for the orthotic. The aim is to ensure that the insole is flexible and cushioning. The design of your orthotic will be such that it may be either a full or partial insert.

What can I expect from my custom made orthotics? 

As a general disclaimer, not all treatments are 100% effective but they do assist in improving the quality of life of the individual who they are prescribed to. There is no universal orthotic that will heal all foot conditions, nor will there be a guarantee that you’ll be immune to downstream surgery. The development of your foot condition is dependent on the root cause of your condition. When it comes to your treatment, a multi fold consideration will have to be factored in. These focus areas will include: 

• the training and experience of the person making the orthotic

• the doctor’s prescription

• the shoe in which a person wears them

• how often a person wears them

The key to success will be dependent on your situation. Stay positive however, and you’ll be able to identify the orthotic that is well fitted to your feet. With correct insertion, you’ll be able to alleviate your condition. 

Summary

As a part of a comprehensive treatment, custom made orthotics can help your feet to heal from a variety of foot and ankle concerns. Consult with your doctor if you feel like custom made orthotics will alleviate your current condition. Your health is your wealth!!

Article Reference: 

1. Orthotics: https://www.healthline.com/health/bone-health/orthotics

2. Are Orthotics Worth It?: https://www.painscience.com/articles/orthotics.php

Protecting Your Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Image Credit: Money And Abundance 

The COVID-19 outbreak is a pandemic that is having effects much greater than just an economic impact. Human beings by nature, are social. Scientific studies have shown that babies, when born, require human touch to maintain their sanity. The same is true for adults. We operate best in clusters and in support groups, and prolonged periods without social interaction is having greater effects on people’s psyches than is currently being noted. 

As a people, we can feel each other’s emotions. If you spend enough time on social media for instance, you’ll be able to sense that although people have a general sense of calm about being home and in social isolation, there is an underlying tension that individuals have been somewhat expressing, even if its in a one to a few seconds clip on a medium like an Instastory. There are some people in the world, who actually are experiencing anxiety, stress and sadness. 

While some losses are temporary, such as in the case of contracts that have paused or been delayed for a few months, there are some individuals who are dealing with losses of not only their loved ones, but their means of employment. This communal grief is something that we all have to be weary of. Watch your mindset every day. 

According to a medical professional, the losses experiences are due to the fact that we feel that we have lost control of our ability to protect the susceptible from this epidemic. Home, a place that once was just a resting place and nest for nurturing our families, is now becoming the haven for everything that is our life experience.

While this level of communal grief is to be anticipated, take the time to ensure that you are taking action to sustain a healthy mental state. Live your life in gratitude, and allow yourself to bless your life and your families lives. You can do this, just stay calm, focused and healthy. 

Below is a mandate from the World Health Organization

Mental health and psychosocial considerations during the COVID-19 outbreak

18 March 2020

In January 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of a new coronavirus disease, COVID-19, to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. WHO stated that there is a high risk of COVID-19 spreading to other countries around the world. In March 2020, WHO made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic.

WHO and public health authorities around the world are acting to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. However, this time of crisis is generating stress throughout the population. The considerations presented in this document have been developed by the WHO Department of Mental Health and Substance Use as a series of messages that can be used in communications to support mental and psychosocial well-being in different target groups during the outbreak.

Messages for the general population

1. COVID-19 has and is likely to affect people from many countries, in many geographical locations. When referring to people with COVID-19, do not attach the disease to any particular ethnicity or nationality. Be empathetic to all those who are affected, in and from any country. People who are affected by COVID-19 have not done anything wrong, and they deserve our support, compassion and kindness.

2. Do not refer to people with the disease as “COVID-19 cases”, “victims” “COVID-19 families” or “the diseased”. They are “people who have COVID-19”, “people who are being treated for COVID-19”, or “people who are recovering from COVID-19”, and after recovering from COVID-19 their life will go on with their jobs, families and loved ones. It is important to separate a person from having an identity defined by COVID-19, in order to reduce stigma.

3. Minimize watching, reading or listening to news about COVID-19 that causes you to feel anxious or distressed; seek information only from trusted sources and mainly so that you can take practical steps to prepare your plans and protect yourself and loved ones. Seek information updates at specific times during the day, once or twice. The sudden and near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel worried. Get the facts; not rumours and misinformation. Gather information at regular intervals from the WHO website and local health authority platforms in order to help you distinguish facts from rumours. Facts can help to minimize fears.

4. Protect yourself and be supportive to others. Assisting others in their time of need can benefit both the person receiving support and the helper. For example, check by telephone on neighbours or people in your community who may need some extra assistance. Working together as one community can help to create solidarity in addressing COVID-19 together.

5. Find opportunities to amplify positive and hopeful stories and positive images of local people who have experienced COVID-19. For example, stories of people who have recovered or who have supported a loved one and are willing to share their experience.

6. Honour carers and healthcare workers supporting people affected with COVID-19 in your community. Acknowledge the role they play in saving lives and keeping your loved ones safe.

Reference Article: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/mental-health-considerations.pdf

Self-Care During The COVID-19 Season

Image Credits: SkinForBeauty.com

Take good care of your body...it is the only one you have to live in. One of the most assuring things about the COVID-19 pandemic is the fact that you are not alone. While the majority of the workforce gets to work from home, for the most part, with the curfews in place, we are restricted with the activities that we can do once we’re outside the worksphere. Today...if you’re one of the lucky ones who gets to work from home...it’s always a good idea to get dressed...to go nowhere. 

Let’s do a head to toe outline of the fun and fabulous things that you can do to keep your self feeling pretty good during the few weeks that we have left in the hotel of our homes. For a few weeks...you can just pretend you’re your own boss. 

Hair: When was the last time you took some time for some hair care? When was the last time that you cut your hair or even coloured it. Now’s a good time to try that new style you’ve been wanting to try out. You have the time now to actually do things like take the time to curl your hair and even colour it. There are so many  hair items on the market. Innovative companies such as GHD, are creating innovations that will make drying, curling and styling your hair more innovative. Now’s the time to make yourself a good list and organize your hair treatments. A few essentials to include in your list include: hair spray, bobby pins, curlers, hair serums and mousse. Since we are self-isolating, we highly recommend that you purchase critical non-essential items online. The links in this article were placed for your convenience. Click on them...create your shopping basket and get started on your hair care. 

Next, is a little facial care. With many salons currently not taking clients, there are various items that you can utilize in your treatment regime that can give you that spa treatment from the comfort of your home. When was the last time you gave yourself a facemask? Facemasks have the ability to treat various imperfections on the skin. If you want a little skin tightening, or if you want to treat some acne flare ups, these are ideal. If you usually visit your aesthetician for a facial, for the next few weeks, you can invest in a good facial brush such as the Clarisonic. When it comes to your daily facial routine...are you cleansing, toning and moisturizing. With routines such as taking your children to school involved, you may miss these activities. Now you have no excuses. You can take your time to pamper yourself with systems such as these. 

What about your body? When was the last time you and your partner gave each other a massage. Now’s the time to do these things. In the evenings, after your dinner, and you’re settling down to rest for the evening you can take the time to pamper yourselves. If you have an at home sauna...you can take the time to spend a few minutes in the sauna before you retire for the day. Sweating out the toxins is one way to keep your body at peak. Take a time to make a body kit for yourself and your significant other. Treat this time like an extended vacation. 

This wouldn’t be an orthopaedic blog without a little foot care. The only time most of us remember that our feet exist is at the point where arthritis starts to set in, or the point at which we sprain the ankle and need to keep it wrapped so it can heal. While the world isn’t expecting you to be high maintenance, it is helpful to pay at least ten minutes to half an hour of attention to your feet before any serious complications develop. 

With our daily lives, physical activity such as walking or running can place a toll on our feet. Depending on the impact, it is often important for one to revamp the feet once a workout or daily activity has concluded. With the summer/winter, how does one actually manage to take care of the feet? 

As a start, you can consult with your orthopaedic surgeon to identify what items will be beneficial to your at home pamper kit. This is a great option, if you’re diabetic, and need to attend to your feet regularly. Instead of self-care feeling like a chore, it will feel like a luxury and you’ll want to do it. If you can, indulge in the following: 

1. A Foot Spa: With a wide range of options from the super affordable to the super luxe, it is possible to purchase for yourself an at home foot massager. With this massager, you can facilitate the massaging of your feet, and improve the circulation through your entire feet and ankles. The soothing warm water will relax both your feet and your mind. Interestingly, if you really want to go low budget, you can add some dish washing liquid to your water. The agent is antimicrobial and moisturizing. Additionally, you can purchase foot soaks from your local pharmacy or beauty supply store. Jazz up the experience with a little lavender soak, and you’ll be healing and relaxing at the same time. 

2. Epsom Salts: The versatility of Epsom Salts cannot be stated enough. From an internal perspective, it is the perfect body detox for your liver. If you ever feel your energy levels on a low, it may be that your body is toxic. Toxicity is induced by the ingestion of preservatives with time. You can either detox via internal ingestion of the salts, or you can detox via the osmosis process. In your foot spa, or a basin, you can create a salt solution. Fill the bath just about half way, and add half a cup of Epsom salts. If you have any blisters, they will heal with time. Additionally, via osmosis, with a concentrated salt solution, you can detox as the salts in the water, will pull toxins from your body through the pores in the soles of your feet. The soles of your feet are actually very sensitive and porus.  

3. Foot Scrub: After you have soaked your feet, you can facilitate exfoliation by using a foot scrub to massage the feet. You can create your own scrub via a mixture of coffee (after you’ve percolated it and have the ground coffee left over), coconut oil and brown sugar. Apply gently, and let the scrub nourish your feet. 

4. Foot Cream: With aromatherapy becoming more mainstream, you can actually determine what scents to apply to your feet in order to give yourself a boost. If you’re heading to sleep you can apply a lavender lotion. These are very inexpensive and you can find them in your local pharmacy, near to lotions and candles. If you want to energize your body, you can actually apply an invigorating scent like a mint or citrus scent that will energize the senses once they are stimulated.

Once you are finished, you can simply go through the process of either placing your feet into socks, or if you’re heading out for the day into your favorite comfortable sandals. Pamper yourself today. 

Reference Article: 

1. Post WorkOut Foot Pampering: https://www.verywellfit.com/best-ways-to-pamper-your-feet-3435790

Optimizing Your Shopping Habits During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Image Credit: The Sway 

“Our greatest happiness does not depend on the condition of life in which chance has placed us, but is always the result of a good conscience, good health, occupation, and freedom in all just pursuits.” - Thomas Jefferson

With the new normal upon us, there are a few critical activities that still have to get done. On a fortnightly or weekly basis, depending on your family’s size, you may have to run a few errands, including purchasing your groceries. Shopping patterns have changed, but people still have to shop, people still have to buy food. While retail chains are making an effort to adjust to the new changes, there are a few things that have made the shopping experience much easier in the current COVID-19 era. 

As a start, since the majority of countries in the world are under a quarantine, the opening times of stores is actually changing. In some regions, stores that once were open for 24 hours are now open for about one third of the time. There are some regions that are optimizing their shopping activities to facilitate more online grocery ordering and the facilitation of either grocery pick up by the customers, or they are simply allowing their service to deliver to the customer. 

The impact of the COVID-19 outbreak is increasing, and retailers have now challenged themselves more than ever to ensure that their customers are able to access essential goods, and to facilitate overall health and well-being of the entire communities that surround their operations. Life must go on...and essentially with a little care, it is possible to do what is necessary to keep your life on track. 

What patients need to understand is that when it comes to their local retailers, they may have to understand that overall global supply chains have been impacted by the epidemic. Since we all are one...there are individuals who work in retailers wholesale facilities that also have been affected by the impact of the epidemic. 

As a result, retailers have had to make extraordinary measures to ensure that goods are on the shelves. As a start, in some regions, once patients are entering the stores, there is the effort by the organization to sanitize the hands of their customers. What this will do is ensure that clean hands are touching the surfaces of food items and also the rest of the  packaged goods on the shelves. 

How can you as a consumer protect yourself while you shop? 

One of the best things that you can do as a consumer, is identify your current shopping needs. Where possible, study your family operations. At best, you’ll have a fair idea of your shopping frequency. In order to minimize your exposure...take the time to identify items that you can: 

1. Purchase online and have delivered. You’ll already know what items you will need for your home, and items such as cleaning materials, shampoos, and items that are non-perishable are items that you can order online via systems such as Amazon.com. Here is a sample of non-perishable items that you can purchase from this site. Since sanitizing your home is a priority, here are a few cleaning essentials. 

Cleaning supplies

1. Disinfectants

2. Disinfecting Wipes 

3. Scrubbing Sponges 

4. Laundry Detergent 

5. Yellow dusters/microfibre cloths

6. Glass Cleaner 

7. Cleaning brushes

8. A mop and bucket.

9. A dustpan and brush

10. Protective Gloves 

11. A plastic caddy to carry the essentials

Go ahead and make your list, and utilize the links above to organize your shopping cart. Once you place your order, you’ll be able to have the items delivered to you within a few days if you’ve ordered the regular service, or with next day delivery via Prime. You’ll feel more accomplished as a shopper for your household, and also be in a position where you won’t have to be exposing yourself un-necessarily for a few critical essentials. Let Amazon work for you! Recline in your backyard!! 

The trip for your perishables will be shorter and more efficient. For this option, you can then go ahead and order online at your favorite store, and then pick up from their delivery point. 

Life is good and all is well, with the advent of technology! Take advantage of online systems for your current shopping needs, and save yourself some time, and allow yourself to enjoy your quarantine time. What you can do in this instance is pamper yourself! More on that on the next blog article!! 

Your health is your wealth!! 

A View of Orthopaedic Surgery

Orthopedic surgery is a medical specialty that performs the treatment of the musculo-skeletal system. This includes the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves of your body. Orthopedic surgeons perform a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatments to address the problems of the musculoskeletal system.

Sub-specialties of Orthopedic Surgery

The field of orthopedics has grown to comprise many sub-categories and the treatment of a vast array of musculoskeletal disorders in patients.

Some of the common sub-specialties that orthopedists handle include:

• Foot and ankle surgery

• Hand surgery

• Hip and knee reconstruction.

• Pediatric orthopedics

• Spinal disorders

• Sports medicine

• Trauma surgery

There are other conditions and sub-specialties also treated by orthopedists. These surgeons often have to work closely with other doctors to handle complex problems.

Orthopedic surgeons operate directly with primary care doctors, pediatricians, anesthesiologists, and emergency doctors. In addition, orthopedists often work with other non-medical doctors, including medical assistants, athletic trainers, orthopedic technologists, nurse practitioners, and others.

In Australia, an orthopedic surgeon by the likes of Gordon Slater has earned massive popularity due to his expertise. He specializes in ankle surgery, foot surgery, arthroscopy, and sports-related injuries. Dr. Slater is also an expert at minimally invasive foot surgery.

Orthopedic Surgical Specialties

Common types of Surgery:

Most orthopedic surgical procedures involve bones or joints. Some surgeries can be performed arthroscopically (looking inside a joint with a camera), others through minimal incisions, and others have larger and more invasive incisions.

Some of the orthopedic surgical procedures that are performed most frequently include ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, and knee replacement.

It is important to reinforce the fact that the vast majority of people treated by an orthopedic surgeon never need to go to an operating room to receive treatment. While many have the perception that for the treatment to be successful, the problem needs surgical repair that is not always the case.

Most orthopedic problems can be treated non-surgically. However, there are some situations in which the best option may be a surgical procedure.

Three things you should know before having surgery

What to expect: Make sure you know what your procedure entails and that you are prepared for it by asking your doctor good questions. Making sure you have the equipment, medications, and any other things you need after surgery in advance will help you greatly. Write any other questions you have for your doctor and take this list to your appointment. When your doctor gives you the answers, be sure to write the answer, so you don't forget.

Types of anesthesia: There are several anesthesia options for most surgical procedures. Not all options are equally effective for each surgical procedure, and some options may be safer for particular patients. Discuss what may be best for your individual surgical procedure with your doctor and anesthesiologist.

Strains and Sprains - What You Need To Know

Image Credits: Quick and Dirty Tips

From time to time, you will suffer from a sprain or a sprain, most often the “soft tissues” (tendons, muscles, and ligaments) of the wrist, ankle, or knee. Difficult manual work and contact sports pose some risks in this regard.

Since both types of injuries have similar causes, symptoms, and treatments, they are often mixed up and mistakenly believed to be the same, and only the severity of the injury changes. In fact, the distinction is based on the type of soft tissue that has been damaged.

Often, being able to establish if it is a sprain or a fracture makes it possible to avoid a visit to the doctor. It is, therefore, useful to be able to distinguish them. If you feel a serious sprain or injury, it is incredibly important that you go to a doctor right away. Gordon Slater is a leading orthopedic surgeon who specializes in treating sports injuries and offers minimally invasive foot surgery as well. He has acquired his MBBS from NSW in 1987 and has been practicing then avidly. Here are some tips from him to help you determine the difference between a strain and a sprain.

Sprain

A strain is an injury to a muscle (the tissues that provide the power to move a joint) or a tendon (the resilient and elastic tissues that connect the muscle to the bone). The injury itself can range from excessive stretching of a muscle or tendon to partial or complete tearing of its fibers.

Acute sprains are commonplace in contact sports; they are usually the result of forces exerted on a particular part of the body, for example, excessive pressure on the hamstrings, behind the thigh. The back muscles are also susceptible to sprains, including twisting when lifting heavy objects, a most common injury during moving.

Other common injuries include those suffered by racquet sports players, who sometimes sprain the hand, wrist, forearm, or elbow (a sprain known as “tennis elbow”). Or “tennis elbow”), because they firmly squeeze the handle of their racket while repeatedly striking a steering wheel or a ball. When an injury of this kind is not well treated, it often becomes chronic.

Strain

A strain is the stretching or tearing of a ligament (the strong, flexible strips of connective tissue that connect at least two bones inside a joint).

Strains can occur in the upper and lower limbs. Frequent wrist strains include those suffered by people trying to stop a fall and all the weight on their hands while their wrists are bent. But, most often, it is the ankle that is the victim of strains; it is even the most common injury on the continent. More than 1 million ankle injuries occur each year in North America, and about 85% of these are strains. A sprained ankle usually occurs when it is the side of the foot that touches the ground when you walk down a sidewalk or a walk, or worse, after a jump when playing soccer or basketball.