Top 5 Most Common Orthopedic Procedures

With so many active people in the US, not to mention high school, college, and pro athletes, it's no surprise that many of us end up needing some form of Orthopedic care at times.  From a simple sprained ankle to ACL surgery, orthopedic injuries can vary greatly.  Probably the biggest reason for this is that Orthopedics deal with conditions that involve the skeletons and muscles of the human body - a pretty comprehensive field of medicine.

Even though many sports injuries may require surgery, an experienced orthopedic surgeon has a number of non-invasive techniques with which to help treat the patient. Even actual surgeries are getting so proficient these days that recovery times are decreasing - with the right rehab and after care.

Although there are countless orthopedic ailments, there are a few procedures that tend to be the most common.  

Here are the top 5 most common orthopedic surgeries:

1. KNEE:  ACL, Chondroplasty, or Meniscectomy. To examine the severity of the injury and potentially treat it, the orthopedic surgeon may elect for arthroscopy surgery.  This is a minimally invasive technique that uses an arthroscope through a small incision in the knee.  At times, the injury is so severe that the patient may need to undergo a more invasive surgical procedure for proper treatment.

2. SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY: With the same arthroscopy option for the knee, surgeons also use it for various shoulder injuries. This minimally-invasive procedure can examine and potentially treat many shoulder injuries, such compression, rotator cuff, tendonitis, and severe sprains. 

3.  CARPAL TUNNEL: This medical condition is caused by the compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist at the carpal tunnel. If you've ever experienced sharp pain, tingling, or numbness in your wrist, you may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). There can be many causes for CTS, including improper computer keyboard use or even gamers who spend hours at a time playing their favorite video game.

4. REMOVAL OF SUPPORT IMPLANT: There are many surgical procedures that require support implants to assist in the stabilization of the injured area.  At times, and for various health reasons, an orthopedic surgeon may suggest the removal of a given support implant.

5. KNEE REPLACEMENT:  This surgical procedure is to replace the weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint to relieve disability and paint.  Knee deterioration is mostly due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and  soriatic arthritis.  The good news is that knee replacement surgery has come a very long way in recent years, offering patients a new "leg up" after a successful procedure.


So, whether you are an avid sport athlete or occasional golfer, have peace of mind that you've never lived at a better time to receive expert orthopedic care.

Dr. Kevin Crawford

4110 22nd Place Lubbock, TX 79410

(806) 792-4329

Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.

5 Best Energy Drinks

Here's a list of the top rated 5 Best Energy Drinks

Looking for an extra Boost to get over the mid-day hump, or help energy levels before a workout?  Here's a list of top energy drinks that may revitalize your afternoons, and put an extra step in your walk.  Of course, nothing is more energy-creating than a good night's sleep and daily exercise.  Nonetheless, here are some viable options to help you motor through your day.

A main concern of many folks is "how much caffeine is there in those energy drinks?".  The news may be better than many people think. While certain brands or sub-brands have huge amounts of caffeine, many others have less than the 320 mg of caffeine of the 14 oz. Dunkin' Donuts regular brewed coffee (http://www.caffeineinformer.com/the-caffeine-database).  

So, whether needing a boost for the gym or for an important business meeting, the right energy drink may make a big difference. Plus, several are fortified with nutrients and natural supplements like ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and guarana. And, the powerful taste of many can wake you up by themselves!  Here we go...

1. RED BULL - The King of energy drinks has been outpacing its competitors for years.  However, a few are nipping at its heals. A big hit with the college crowd, Red Bull has found a niche as a popular go-to mixed drink ingredient. It comes in a slender 8-ounce container, and includes ingredients, such as taurine (an essential amino acid) and glucuronolactone (a carbohydrate).  Red Bull also comes with a nominal dose of 80 mg of caffeine.  But, if you want to "grow wings", and "improve your concentration and alertness", Red Bull might be your drink - even with it's indescribable, funky sweet / sour taste.

2. MONSTER - With its huge introduction in 2002, Monster Energy as a nice-tasting citrus, sweet & sour flavor.  The drink has built up more than 20 varieties, and has conquered a major market share. It's "energy blend" includes ginseng, guarana, taurine, and vitamin B. Monster's original flavor includes 160 mg of caffeine, while Monster Hitman Sniper offers a whopping 240 mg of caffein. 

3. ROCKSTAR - Reining big from Las Vegas, Rockstar's marketing strategy of fast cars and sex appeal, along with its partnership with Playboy, is paying off big time. "Party like a Rock Star".  Yes, the power of marketing. Highlighted ingredients include ginkgo biloba, taurine, ginseng, thistle, sugar and caffeine. Having a long list of drink options, Rockstar purports to reduce hangovers. So, what's not to like? Well, maybe the 280 calories or the not-so-minor 160 mg of caffeine. 

4. AMP - Distributed by Pepsi, Amp Energy Drink is not the most recognized name brand.  However, it is catching on - probably due to using real orange juice and sporting a pleasing and natural sweet citrus taste (hard to find in many other brands). With a number of healthy ingredients in its line of drinks, such as B-vitamins, electrolytes, and I-theanine, Amp offers a great combination of competitive pricing and good taste, with only 142 mg of caffeine. 

5. 5-HOUR ENERGY - We've all seen this one at most convenience stores and gas stations across the land for years.  It's two-once size fits nicely on most store counter tops, and also offers a shot of energy without needing to drink a 16-once alternative. 5-Hour started in 2004, and has boosted profits ever since. Containing Vitamin B and taurine, with a power shot of 200 mg of caffeine, 5-Hour has made its mark in the energy drink arena with over $1 billion in retail sales.

Although energy drinks may have their place and time, moderation is always the key with anything.  If you find yourself not being able to get through the day without a few shots of liquid energy, you may wish to visit your medical professional and review your sleeping, exercise, or eating habits.

Remember to live life to its Fullest

Dr. Kevin Crawford

4110 22nd Place Lubbock, TX 79410

(806) 792-4329

Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.