MK Orthopaedics

Learn How MK Orthopaedics Can Help You With Pain!

If you’ve experienced a painful muscle strain or sprain, you know how this injury can compromise your way of life. In order for you to effectively heal, you need to identify the source of your pain and learn about the treatment options available. You can begin your research by taking a look at these articles and scheduling an appointment with an experienced orthopaedic doctor.

• Discover the benefits of Kinesio tape by taking a look at this guide on HowStuffWorks.com.
• Find out why Olympic athlete Kerri Walsh chose to wear Kinesio tape in the 2008 Olympic games by reading this New York Times article.
• The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons provides some important information about tennis elbow.
• Learn how to recognize the symptoms of tennis elbow with help from this U.S. National Library of Medicine guide.
• WebMD explains some of the treatment options available for tennis elbow in this article.

The orthopaedic doctors at MK Orthopaedics can help you find the most appropriate treatment option for your sports injury. Call (815) 741-6900 to schedule an appointment.

How to Return to Sports After Knee Replacement Surgery

If you are experiencing sharp, painful sensations in your knee, your orthopaedic surgeon may recommend knee replacement surgery. During this procedure, the damaged portion of the knee joint is removed and then replaced with an artificial joint material. Even though knee replacement surgery can dramatically improve the function of your knee, it will be some time before you can return to physically demanding activities such as sports.

In this video, you will learn about two important exercises you can use to strengthen the muscles around your knee. With only a resistance band and an exercise ball, you will be able to perform these exercises in your home. As you strengthen the muscles in your shins and quads, you can help your body prepare to return to sports.

MK Orthopaedics is a full-service rehabilitation center in Joliet, IL. Contact us at (815) 741-6900 to learn about your treatment options for knee problems and sports injuries.

A Basic Look at Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is the non-medical term used to refer to sharp pain in the elbow which develops due to overuse. This painful condition is called tennis elbow because it is a common ailment among tennis players. However, participation in other repetitive motion activities, including painting, auto mechanics, and plumbing, can also lead to the development of tennis elbow. Continue reading to learn more about tennis elbow and how an orthopaedic surgeon can provide relief.

Causes of tennis elbow

In individuals who have tennis elbow, the muscles and tendons in their forearms that connect to the elbow have become inflamed. This soft tissue can slowly become damaged from activities that require the same repetitive motion. The main muscle that becomes damaged is the forearm muscle called the extensor carpi radialis brevis, a muscle that stabilizes the wrist every time the elbow is held straight. Even though anyone could potentially develop tennis elbow, this condition is more common among athletes and individuals between the ages of 30 and 50.

Symptoms of tennis elbow

The symptoms of tennis elbow typically develop gradually over time and become more severe as the individual continues to use the damaged muscle. Some of the most common signs of tennis elbow include pain or a burning sensation in the outer region of the elbow and weakened grip strength when holding objects. These symptoms can be especially apparent when an individual with tennis elbow begins to pick up and swing a racket.

Treatment of tennis elbow

Depending on the severity of an individual’s tennis elbow, an orthopaedic doctor may recommend a range of treatment options. Most cases can be treated with non-surgical options such as physical therapy, braces, and anti-inflammatory medication.

If you think that you have developed tennis elbow, schedule an appointment with MK Orthopaedics by calling (815) 741-6900. Our experienced orthopaedic staff is dedicated to helping patients find the correct treatment they need to return to the activities they love. You can visit our website to find out more about our services and treatment options.

What Is Kinesio Tape?

The physical demands required of both professional and recreational athletes often lead to sports injuries, including strains of the muscles or tendons. While strains have long been treated with a range of medicines, therapies, and creams, scientific advances have resulted in the development of more effective non-invasive treatment options. Kinesio tape is one example of a modern treatment available for individuals who have suffered painful muscle strains.

Purpose of Kinesio Tape

Unlike traditional athletic taping that restricts muscle movement and function, Kinesio tape actually opens up the injured muscle area in order to allow a full range of muscle movement. Because the tape allows the skin and connective tissue in the damaged muscle to move, it creates space for lymphatic fluid to circulate around the damaged area. This lymphatic fluid plays a key role in cleansing the damaged tissue and promoting the body’s natural healing process. It can also help reduce inflammation in the area.

Application of Kinesio Tape

In order for Kinesio tape to facilitate a full range of muscle motion, it is made of a porous cotton material. The adhesive glue of the tape is water-resistant, which means that it can typically remain secured in place for three to four days, even when exposed to sweat and water. Because improper application of the tape can cause additional harm to the damaged muscles, it’s important for patients to have an orthopaedic doctor properly secure the tape around the damaged muscle.

Benefits of Kinesio Tape

The main benefit of Kinesio tape is that it doesn’t restrain the injured muscles, but rather improves fluid circulation within the body. By encouraging fluid movement, Kinesio tape helps the muscles heal and can help individuals avoid further injury. Since Kinesio tape is sweat- and water-resistant, it is an ideal choice for athletes who regularly participate in intense workouts.

Find out more about the Kinesio tape treatment option by scheduling an appointment with MK Orthopaedics. Our experienced orthopaedic surgeons provide rehabilitative treatment in a compassionate environment. You can reach our office in Joliet by calling (815) 741-6900.

A Look at Common Sports-Related Joint Injuries [INFOGRAPHIC]

Did you know that there were 2,560,000 basketball-related injuries in 2011? Basketball and other popular sports may be fun activities that can help you stay fit, but they can also lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common sports injuries are those that involve joints, such as the ankles, knees, and shoulders. Joint injuries often occur when there is damage to a ligament. Sometimes, the ligament has a tear. If you suffer from a sports injury, your Joliet orthopaedic surgeon can help bring you back to good health. To learn more about common sports-related joint injuries, check out this infographic, and feel free to pass this along to your teammates and active friends!