Page not found - Towson Orthopaedic Associates

Knee arthritis can cause significant pain and disability which negatively impacts a person’s quality of life. If non-surgical treatment does not alleviate these symptoms, a knee replacement may be indicated.

Knee replacement can be a life-changing operation that relieves pain and improves function. Recently, technological advancements with robotic surgery have been developed to improve the accuracy and outcomes of knee replacement.

Dr. Jack Steele, Orthopaedic Surgeon and Adult Reconstruction specialist at Towson Orthopaedic Associates, is one of several surgeons at Towson Orthopaedic Associates who are specially trained on this new technology and performs a large number of robotic-assisted total knee replacements. He explains how it works below.

What is robotic-assisted knee replacement?

Robotic-assisted surgical technology allows surgeons to provide you with a personalized surgical plan that is tailored to your individual anatomy. During your knee replacement surgery, your knee is mapped and registered with a robot to determine your knee’s individual anatomy and alignment. Surgeons then use the robotic system to develop a surgical plan individualized for you based on this information. Then, a robotic arm is used to make very accurate bone cuts that allow surgeons to enact that surgical plan and implant the knee components in the correct position for your knee.

The goal of any knee replacement is to result in a stable knee with good range of motion. Robotic technology allows surgeons to achieve these outcomes more accurately and less invasively. This can lead to a faster recovery and more consistent outcomes.

Am I a candidate for robotic knee surgery?

Most patients who are indicated for a knee replacement are candidates for robotic-assisted knee replacement. If you are interested in this technology, please contact Towson Orthopaedic Associates to schedule an appointment to see if the robotic assisted knee replacement is the right option for you.

Latest Healthgrades Rating Follows Hospital’s Rankings as #1 in Maryland for Orthopedic Surgery and Spine Surgery and Top 5 in the State for Cardiology and Critical Care

TOWSON, Md. (February 13, 2024) – University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center (UM SJMC), a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), announced today that it has been recognized as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Outpatient Joint Replacement by Healthgrades. This achievement, along with numerous other accolades from Healthgrades, including the #1 rating in Maryland in Orthopedic Surgery and Spine Surgery, reflects the organization’s dedication to clinical excellence and distinguishes UM SJMC as one of the nation’s leading hospitals for outpatient joint replacement.

“University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center is proud to be recognized for our excellence in outpatient joint replacement,” said Thomas B. Smyth, MD, UM SJMC’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “In collaboration with our physician partners at Towson Orthopaedic Associates (TOA), our concerted focus on clinical quality and patient experience, along with our sustained investments in advanced medical technologies and in our orthopedic care team, help ensure that we remain Maryland’s most trusted resources for successful joint replacement and an improved quality of life.”

“Our surgeons are honored to provide our patients with exemplary care that leads to optimal outcomes in joint replacement surgery,” said Scott J. Tarantino, MD, TOA President. “Our evolving and strengthening partnership with UM St. Joseph continues to bring innovation and high-quality orthopedic services to our community.”

To identify the top-performing hospitals for outpatient joint replacement, Healthgrades analyzed patient outcomes at short-term acute care facilities nationwide that offer knee and hip replacement in an outpatient environment.

Healthgrades’ analysis found that patients treated at hospitals that have been recognized for excellence in outpatient joint replacement have a demonstrably better chance at a smooth recovery.*

“University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center exemplifies what it means to be a leader in outpatient orthopedics by delivering consistently superior outcomes across key outpatient procedures,” said Brad Bowman, MD, Chief

Medical Officer and head of Data Science at Healthgrades. “Patients undergoing outpatient joint replacement at UM SJMC should feel confident in their decision to seek care from a facility with top marks in their procedure.”

Consumers can visit Healthgrades.com to learn more about how Healthgrades measures outcomes-based outpatient ratings.

*Statistics are based on Healthgrades analysis of SAF data for years 2020 through 2022 and represent three-year estimates for Medicare patients only. For more information on how Healthgrades identifies the nation’s top hospitals for outpatient joint replacement, see the 2024 Outpatient Specialty Excellence Awards and Ratings Methodology.

A Message from Dr. Smyth: America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Outpatient Joint Replacement by Healthgrades (PDF) >>

# # #

About University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center

Founded in 1864 by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, UM St. Joseph Medical Center is a 221-bed Catholic, not-for-profit regional medical center in Towson, Maryland, that offers a wide range of superb clinical programs and centers of excellence, including the Cancer, Heart and Orthopedic Institutes, Women and Children’s services and Emergency Medicine. The medical center’s committed focus on zero patient harm, clinical excellence and perfect patient experiences spurred the creation of the hospital’s unique approach to care, The UM St. Joseph Value Delivery System, and has consistently earned UM St. Joseph regional and national recognition for patient care and safety, including its ranking as the #1 community hospital in Maryland by U.S. News & World Report. UM St. Joseph is a proud member of the 11-hospital University of Maryland Medical System, dedicated to providing loving service and compassionate, leading-edge care to all.

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

About Healthgrades

Healthgrades is dedicated to empowering stronger and more meaningful connections between patients and their healthcare providers. As the #1 platform for finding a doctor and a leader in healthcare transparency, we help millions of consumers each month find and schedule appointments with their healthcare professional of choice and prepare for their appointments with best-in-class, treatment-focused content. Our health system, large group practice, and life sciences marketing solutions have been helping our partners reach and engage consumers who are on their way to the doctor for over 20 years. Healthgrades is part of RVO Health, a partnership between Red Ventures and Optum, part of UnitedHealth Group. RVO Health has the largest consumer health and wellness audience online across its brand portfolio, including Healthgrades, Healthline, Medical News Today, Greatist, Psych Central, Bezzy, and Platejoy, which touch every part of the health and wellness journey. Each month, RVO Health helps more than 100 million unique visitors live their strongest and healthiest lives.

Reviewed by Alvin J. Detterline, M.D. – Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Specialist

Understanding Winter’s Influence on Pain and Injury

Winter sports enthusiasts often face a unique set of challenges when it comes to injuries. Not only do they have to contend with the usual risks associated with physical activity, but they also have to navigate the additional hazards posed by cold weather. It is not uncommon for athletes to experience increased pain and discomfort in the winter months, and understanding why this happens is crucial for injury prevention and management.

Winter sports injuries encompass a wide range of conditions, including sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations. The cold weather itself does not directly cause these injuries, but it can exacerbate the symptoms and make the pain more intense.

In this article, we will explore the effects of cold weather on sports injuries and shed light on why injuries may hurt worse during the winter.

Why Do Sports Injuries Hurt More in the Winter?

Reduced blood flow: Cold weather causes our blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the injured area. This decreased circulation can slow down the healing process and prolong the recovery time. Additionally, the lack of ideal blood flow can result in more prolonged inflammation and swelling, which can further contribute to the pain experienced during winter injuries.
Stiffened muscles and joints: Cold temperatures can cause our muscles, tendons, and ligaments to become stiffer and less flexible. This reduced flexibility can make movements more challenging and put additional strain on injured areas. As a result, the pain experienced from an injury can be heightened during the winter months.
Increased sensitivity to pain: One of the main reasons injuries hurt worse in the winter is the effect of cold temperatures on our nerves. When the temperature drops, our nerve endings become more sensitive, making us more susceptible to pain. This increased sensitivity can amplify the pain signals sent to our brain, making injuries feel more intense than they would in warmer weather.
Delayed healing: Cold weather can slow down the healing process. The body’s natural healing mechanisms may be compromised due to reduced blood flow and decreased metabolic activity, leading to longer recovery times and prolonged pain.

Winter Sports Injury Prevention and Management

To mitigate the effects of cold weather on sports injuries, athletes should take certain precautions:

Warm-up thoroughly: Prior to engaging in any winter sports activity, it is crucial to warm up adequately. This helps increase blood flow, loosen muscles, and improve joint flexibility, reducing the risk of injury and minimizing pain.
Dress appropriately: Wearing proper clothing and protective gear is essential for preventing injuries and minimizing the impact of cold weather. Layering up, wearing moisture-wicking fabrics, and using appropriate footwear can help maintain body temperature and reduce the risk of injury.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can occur even in cold weather, which can negatively impact muscle function and increase the risk of injury. It is important to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after physical activity to stay properly hydrated.
Seek medical attention: If an injury occurs during winter sports, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatment, and offer guidance on managing pain and promoting healing.

In conclusion, cold weather can have a significant impact on sports injuries, making pain worse and prolonging recovery times. Understanding the effects of cold weather on the body and taking necessary precautions can help athletes prevent injuries and manage pain effectively. By staying warm, properly preparing the body, and seeking medical attention when needed, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy their activities while minimizing the risks associated with cold weather.

Towson Orthopaedic Associates has once again demonstrated a notable presence in Baltimore Magazine’s annual “Top Docs” feature, with 13 esteemed physicians recognized for their expertise in a variety of orthopedic specialties throughout the region.

The dedication and hard work of these individuals can be seen not only in their accomplishments, but also in the expressions of gratitude displayed by patients in the Baltimore area and beyond!

Click the images below to learn more about these exceptional specialists!

Orthopedic Surgery - Foot & Ankle

Orthopedic Surgery - Hand

Orthopedic Surgery - Joint

Orthopedic Surgery - Sports Medicine

TOA will be frequently posting a new feature called TOA Tips. This series of articles will answer commonly asked questions by our patients in the office.

Today, we answer your questions regarding hip cortisone injections. Please contact your medical provider if you have further questions.

What to expect from a cortisone injection in the hip

Hip injections are an option for treatment of hip pain, especially for patients who are not ready to consider surgery, but are looking for relief. Here are a few tips when considering a hip injection:

What hip problems can be treated with cortisone injections?

Hip labral tear pain
Hip arthritis
Bursitis
Joint irritation from trauma

Hip injections can also be beneficial from a diagnostic perspective. For example, in patients with both hip and lumbar spine arthritis, they can help differentiate how much of a patient’s symptoms are coming from their hip versus their back.

Where are hip injections performed?

A hip cortisone injection can be done in the office.

The hip is a deep joint, so cortisone injections require the use of an ultrasound to ensure that the injection is going into the joint.

How long does relief from a hip injection last?

It varies from person to person. You may experience relief for a few weeks or for several months.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects of cortisone injections may include:

Short-term increase in blood sugar
Short-term facial flushing
Short-term flare of pain and irritation in the joint
Cartilage damage, tendon weakening, and infection

Are there any precautions?

Steroids can have negative effects on cartilage and tissue over time. Therefore, your provider may limit the total number of steroid injections you get and spread them out to no more than 3-4 times per year.

Celebrate National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week With Us!

This week we honor the many contributions of Advanced Practice Providers at Towson Orthopaedic Associates, who are:

These certified health care professionals are vital to Towson Orthopaedic Associates, and:

Assess, Diagnose, Treat, and Manage Illnesses and Orthopaedic issues
Prescribe medications
Perform clinical procedures
Conduct clinical research in management of the whole individual

This important group elevates the fields of medicine and nursing, to ensure our patients and communities receive safe, high-quality evidence-based care.

Here at Towson Orthopaedic Associates (TOA), we want to recognize the hard work and dedication of the Physician Assistants (PA) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) providers as they care for you, our patients, every day.

Pickleball’s popularity had taken off since the pandemic with many participants surprised to learn the sport has been around for nearly 60 years. What is also surprising is the number of people getting hurt while playing.

The appeal of the sport is that it is low impact and easy to learn so it is attractive to the 55 and older population. However, because it requires quick movement and agility as well as balance and strength, injuries have been occurring within this population at a rapid rate.

Towson Orthopaedic Associates has asked some of our specialists to outline the types of injuries they are seeing and tips for injury prevention. We’ve broken down the tips by parts of the body most impacted by injury.

Knee Injuries

What types of knee injuries are you seeing?

Knee sprains, muscle strains – including quadriceps and hamstrings – and meniscal injuries are all common injuries in pickleball.

Players may also suffer flare-ups of their underlying arthritis.

How are these injuries best treated?

Knee sprains and muscle strains are typically treated RICE – rest, ice, compression and elevation. Anti-inflammatories (such as Advil, Ibuprofen, Aleve) can also be taken to help alleviate the pain.

Meniscal injuries are often treated similarly, but may also need an injection. Occasionally with persistently painful meniscal tears, minimally invasive (arthroscopic) surgery could be required.

Exacerbations of arthritis can also be treated with injections. When the arthritis has become severe and pain is not managed with the above strategies, a knee replacement may be recommended.

What can I do to avoid a knee injury?

Warming up and stretching is very important. Strengthening thigh muscles – including quadriceps, hamstrings – in addition to our hip musculature, can also help in protection of the joint.

When returning from an injury, occasionally a brace may be recommended to give the knee additional support and compression to avoid reinjury.

Featured Specialist

Hand, Wrist, Elbow, & Shoulder Injuries

What types of injuries are you seeing?

Upper extremity injuries related to pickleball are evaluated in our practice here at Towson Orthopedic Associates weekly. Weiss, et. al,2021, published an article tracking non-fatal pickleball and tennis injuries in the US between 2010-2019 and found through a survey of injuries evaluated at U.S. Emergency departments, a 21.5% increase in ER visits for pickleball related injuries. Most injuries fall into the category of “Slip/Trip/Fall/Dive” according to the authors.

Just as we have seen a rise in “texting thumb” over the years, there is now a condition referred to as “pickleball elbow” (Journal of Epidemiology, 2021). “Pickleball elbow”, otherwise known as “tennis elbow” or lateral epicondylitis can be treated, and may resolve through stretching, protecting the tendon/elbow, and returning to play when symptoms abate.

Acute wrist injuries are the most common complaints. They occur while tripping and reaching with an outstretched hand to break a fall. The wrist injuries that are sustained range from a sprain to a fracture. Colles fracture of the wrist is the most common injury that may sometimes require surgical correction in a pickleball injury.

Other areas of the upper extremity that can be injured by way of a fall include the elbow and shoulder including fracture or tendon tears.

A pickleball player can also sustain injury to fingers and hand including sprains, strains and fractures.

What can I do to avoid these injuries?

The importance of preparation, including balance and stamina, may decrease the risk of injuries while enjoying a day on the courts.

The ability to be balanced and steady while playing can benefit from engaging in Tai Chi, biking, elliptical, walking and swimming to create a strong core and increase stamina needed to play this ever-popular game.

Featured Specialist

Ankle Injuries

What types of injuries are you seeing?

The most common pickle ball injury I see is Achilles tendon tears or ruptures.

The typical patient is playing for the first time, although experienced players have also sustained these injuries. The player will take a quick step on the court and feel pain in the back of their ankle and often hear a pop and have difficulty walking.

It is important to get seen by someone experienced in the treatment of these injuries as quickly as possible, hopefully within a couple of days of the injury.

How are these injuries treated?

If seen by an Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle specialist, we can quickly place the patient into an appropriate splint or boot and place them on crutches.

Further treatment is determined by the patient’s overall medical conditions, and desired activity level going forward.

– If a continued high level of activity is desirable then surgical repair is usually recommended.

– If lower levels of activity are planned and avoiding sprinting, cutting and jumping sports, then we can consider non-operative treatment.

With either treatment, patients can expect the overall recovery to last up to 9-12 months.

What can I do to avoid an ankle injury?

The best way to avoid getting injured is to do lots of stretching of the calf muscles and hamstrings prior to playing pickle ball and begin warming up slowly on the court.

Featured Specialist

Hip Injuries

What are some of the typical hip injuries?

The most common hip injuries from pickleball are muscle strains of the gluteal, hip flexor or hamstring muscles. Labral tears and exacerbation of underlying hip arthritis can also occur.

How they are treated?

Muscle strains are treated with rest, anti-inflammatories and physical therapy to work on stretching and strengthening.

Labral tears are often treated non-operatively with anti-inflammatories, physical therapy and sometimes injections.

Hip arthritis is treated non-operatively if mild to moderate, but if it is severe and recalcitrant to non-operative management a hip replacement can be performed. Most patients are able to get back to playing pickleball after a hip replacement!

What can people do to avoid a hip injury?

People can help prevent hip injuries by stretching prior to playing and working on core, hip and lower extremity strengthening.

Featured Specialist

Additional Resources

Pickleball is for everyone, but watch the injuries – Catholic Review

References

Pickleball annual growth report. USA Pickleball. (2023, March 10).

Weiss, H., Dougherty, J., & DiMaggio, C. (2021, May 3). Non-fatal senior pickleball and tennis-related injuries treated in United States emergency departments, 2010–2019 – Injury Epidemiology. BioMed Central.

Conti, K. (2022, November 16). Why pickleball players are getting paddled with injuries. NBC New York.

Greiner, N. (2019). Pickleball: Injury considerations in an increasingly popular sport. Missouri medicine.

On behalf of our entire family here at Towson Orthopaedic Associates, we’d like to extend a very special congratulations to Mary Jo Holloran, DNP, ONP-C for her recognition in Baltimore Magazine’s ninth annual Excellence in Nursing Awards.

Local residents were asked to nominate R.N.s and L.P.N.s in all areas of treatment who go above and beyond the call of duty. Following review by a panel of nurse advisors retained by Baltimore magazine, Mary Jo was named among the region’s top nurses for her excellence in orthopedic nursing.

Click here to learn more >>

Our sincerest congratulations go out to our physicians who have been named among the Top Doctors of 2022 by Baltimore Magazine. Their dedication and hard work are reflected not only in their accomplishments, but also in the smiles of their many grateful patients throughout the Baltimore area and beyond!

Click the images below to learn more about these exceptional specialists!

Although sports injuries are often preventable, they are a common occurrence in every sport.

Many sports injuries are minor and cause only temporary discomfort and lost practice time, but injuries that occur when the body is under high levels of stress (such as falls and collisions) can be serious and have long-lasting effects.

Athletes who return to the field too soon run the risk of causing additional damage to their joints, which could lengthen recovery time and potentially lead to further injuries and difficulty with returning within a timely manner.

How do you know if your injury requires medical attention? Continue reading to find out.

What’s the Difference Between a Sprain and a Strain?

Sprains and strains are common sports injuries involving the soft tissue surrounding the joints. These injuries have very similar causes and symptoms, so it can be difficult to tell them apart.

A sprain occurs when a ligament connecting two bones together is overstretched or slightly torn. Knee, wrist, and ankle sprains are some of the most common injuries seen in athletes.

A strain, sometimes called a “pulled muscle”, occurs in the same way as a sprain but affects the muscle or the tendon that attaches the muscle to the bone. Sports-related muscle strains are most common in the thigh and groin.

Both injuries cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility. The key difference is that bruising is a sign of a sprain, while muscle spasms may indicate a strain.

A mild sprain or strain can typically be treated at home using the PRICE method (protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation). However, if you hear a “pop” or if pain persists, you may have torn a ligament or ruptured a tendon. Medical attention is recommended to determine the extent of the injury.

Can a Torn Tendon/Ligament Heal on Its Own?

With proper care and plenty of rest, a mild ligament or tendon injury will often heal on its own. However, when a tendon or ligament is torn or ruptured, symptoms will likely persist and the injury may worsen with continued use.

Non-surgical treatment methods, such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications, can help to improve function and relieve pain. However, immobilization with a brace or cast, surgery, or physical therapy may be required to restore full strength.

How Do I Know if My Injury Is Serious?

Many sports injuries have similar symptoms and can be very difficult to self-diagnose. Although minor injuries can often heal on their own over time, more serious injuries will require treatment.

The following symptoms may indicate a more serious injury:

A popping or snapping sound or feeling
Intense or ongoing pain or weakness
Immobility or inability to bear weight on the affected area
Immediate swelling or bruising
Visible deformity
Numbness or tenderness

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your physician will be able to assess the severity of your injury, obtain X-rays if needed, and recommend the most effective course of treatment.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Sports Injury?

Early intervention is key when dealing with an athletic injury. Without proper treatment, injuries can worsen leading to the need for more invasive treatments, longer recovery periods, and (potentially) long-term damage.

The time it takes to recover from a sports injury is different for each person and depends on the type and severity of the injury. On average, minor injuries can typically heal in 6 to 12 weeks, while more serious injuries can take up to 12 months to fully recover. Your orthopedic specialist will be able to help guide you through the process and maximize recovery.

How Can I Speed Up Recovery?

Recovering from a sports injury takes time, but your commitment to your recovery can play a major role in your body’s healing process.

An appropriate conditioning program can help you accelerate your recovery and reduce the chance of re-injury. However, certain activities should be avoided as they can cause further damage. *Be sure to talk to your physician about what is best for you and your body.

When you sustain any type of injury, it is essential to pay attention to your body and give it the time it needs to recover. Don’t forget to get some rest, and always make sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations since their goal is the get you back in action as soon and as safely as possible.

What is robotic-assisted knee replacement?

Am I a candidate for robotic knee surgery?

Understanding Winter’s Influence on Pain and Injury

Why Do Sports Injuries Hurt More in the Winter?

Winter Sports Injury Prevention and Management

Orthopedic Surgery - Foot & Ankle

Orthopedic Surgery - Hand

Orthopedic Surgery - Joint

Orthopedic Surgery - Sports Medicine

What to expect from a cortisone injection in the hip

What hip problems can be treated with cortisone injections?

Where are hip injections performed?

How long does relief from a hip injection last?

Are there any side effects?

Are there any precautions?

Knee Injuries

What types of knee injuries are you seeing?

How are these injuries best treated?

What can I do to avoid a knee injury?

Featured Specialist

Hand, Wrist, Elbow, & Shoulder Injuries

What types of injuries are you seeing?

What can I do to avoid these injuries?

Featured Specialist

Ankle Injuries

What types of injuries are you seeing?

How are these injuries treated?

What can I do to avoid an ankle injury?

Featured Specialist

Hip Injuries

What are some of the typical hip injuries?

How they are treated?

What can people do to avoid a hip injury?

Featured Specialist

Additional Resources

References

What’s the Difference Between a Sprain and a Strain?

Can a Torn Tendon/Ligament Heal on Its Own?

How Do I Know if My Injury Is Serious?

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Sports Injury?

How Can I Speed Up Recovery?

Leave a Review