TSAOG Blog Collection

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as rooster comb injections, may help relieve knee arthritis pain and improve joint mobility. Learn how these injections work, who may benefit, what to expect during treatment, and how long relief may last.

Patellar instability occurs when the kneecap shifts or dislocates from its normal position, causing pain, swelling, and knee instability. Learn about common causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options to help restore knee stability and function.

Dupuytren’s contracture can cause thickening in the palm and gradually pull fingers into a bent position. Learn about the early signs, how the condition progresses, and the treatment options available to help improve hand mobility and function.

ACL reconstruction surgery can restore knee stability after a significant tear, but the right treatment depends on the injury, activity level, and long-term goals. Learn about graft options, ACL reconstruction vs. repair, when surgery may be recommended, and when non-surgical treatment could be appropriate.

ACL tears often happen during sudden cutting, landing, or stopping movements, but targeted training may help reduce the risk. Learn how strength, balance, neuromuscular control, and proper movement mechanics can support ACL injury prevention.

Staying active can help seniors maintain strength, balance, independence, and overall quality of life. Explore orthopedic tips for protecting mobility, plus senior-friendly activities and local resources in downtown San Antonio that support healthy aging.

Pre-med jobs can provide valuable healthcare experience while helping students build skills for medical school and future careers. Explore six jobs for pre-med students, including medical assistant, research assistant, physical therapy aide, and other roles that offer clinical and administrative experience.

The direct anterior approach to hip replacement is a muscle-sparing technique that may support faster early recovery for some patients. Learn how it compares with the posterior approach, who may be a candidate, its potential benefits, and what to expect during recovery.

Partial and total knee replacements can both relieve pain and restore function, but they differ in how much of the joint is replaced, who qualifies, and what recovery looks like. Learn the key differences and how orthopedic specialists determine which option may be appropriate.

Rotator cuff injuries can often be treated without surgery using rest, physical therapy, activity modification, medications, or injections. Learn how these treatment options work, when surgery may be considered, and how TSAOG specialists approach shoulder pain and recovery.

Shoulder arthritis can cause persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, and limited range of motion. Learn about nonsurgical treatment options, when shoulder replacement may be considered, and the differences between anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Spinal stenosis occurs when narrowing within the spine places pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking. Learn what causes spinal stenosis, how it is diagnosed, and which nonsurgical and surgical treatment options may help relieve symptoms.

Proper diabetic foot care can help prevent complications caused by neuropathy, poor circulation, wounds, and infections. Learn practical tips for inspecting, cleaning, protecting, and caring for your feet, plus when to see a podiatrist for additional support.

A rotator cuff tear can cause persistent shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion, making everyday activities difficult. Learn the common causes and warning signs, treatment options for partial and full-thickness tears, and steps that may help protect your shoulder from further injury.

Ankle replacement surgery may help reduce pain and restore mobility for people with severe ankle arthritis who no longer find relief from conservative treatments. Learn who may be a candidate, how to prepare, what happens during surgery, and what to expect throughout recovery.

Recovery from a meniscus tear can vary depending on the type of injury and whether surgery is needed. Learn what to expect during non-surgical and post-surgical recovery, including typical healing timelines, physical therapy milestones, and tips for returning to normal activities safely.

Knee pain can develop suddenly after an injury or gradually from conditions like arthritis and tendinitis. Learn common causes of knee pain, when to see a doctor, and whether a sports medicine or joint replacement specialist may be the right fit for your symptoms.

Sports injuries can affect athletes of all levels, from overuse conditions like runner’s knee and tennis elbow to more serious injuries such as ACL and rotator cuff tears. Learn the symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies for 10 of the most common sports injuries.

Podiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and ankle problems, from heel pain and bunions to sports injuries, diabetic wounds, and chronic conditions. Learn what a podiatrist does, which conditions they treat, and when it may be time to schedule an appointment.

Preparing for knee replacement surgery can make recovery smoother and help reduce uncertainty about what comes next. Learn how to prepare your home, build a support system, plan for physical therapy, and follow key recovery steps before and after surgery.

ACL injuries can cause pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty returning to sports or everyday activities. Learn the different types of ACL injuries, common causes and symptoms, treatment options, recovery expectations, and steps that may help reduce your risk of injury.

A herniated disc can cause back or neck pain along with numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain that travels into the arms or legs. Learn what causes a herniated disc, how symptoms can vary, and what treatment options may help manage the condition.

Rotator cuff injuries can range from mild inflammation and strains to more serious tears that may require surgery. Learn when conservative treatments such as rest and physical therapy may be enough, when surgery could be considered, and when persistent shoulder pain should be evaluated by a medical provider.

Back pain after pregnancy is common as the body recovers from delivery and adjusts to lifting, carrying, feeding, and caring for a growing baby. Learn how stretching, strengthening, proper lifting techniques, posture, and gradual recovery can help relieve postpartum back pain—and when symptoms warrant medical attention.

Finding the right shoes can support proper alignment, reduce foot pain, and help prevent common injuries. Learn what to look for in supportive footwear, from proper fit and cushioning to activity-specific features and guidance for common foot conditions.

Lower back pain can come from irritated nerves, spinal joints, discs, or surrounding muscles, which is why treatment should target the specific source of pain. Learn how minimally invasive options such as injections, nerve ablation, and neuromodulation may help relieve pain and reduce the need for surgery.

Osteoporosis treatment can include medications, exercise, dietary changes, and fall-prevention strategies to help protect bone strength and reduce fracture risk. Learn about the main treatment options, when to seek a bone health evaluation, and how specialists can help create a personalized care plan.

Shoulder replacement and rotator cuff surgery treat different causes of shoulder pain and loss of function. Learn how these procedures differ, what factors guide the decision between repair and replacement, and what to expect during recovery.

Rotator cuff surgery may be recommended when shoulder pain and weakness persist despite rest, physical therapy, and other conservative treatments. Learn how to prepare for surgery, what to expect afterward, and how rehabilitation can help restore shoulder strength and range of motion.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions such as rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, impingement, and shoulder instability. Learn how the procedure works, its potential benefits, who may be a candidate, and what recovery typically involves.

Shoulder instability can cause repeated dislocations, a feeling of looseness, weakness, and difficulty using the arm normally. Learn about the common types and causes of shoulder instability, available treatment options, and when to see an orthopedic specialist.

Entry-level healthcare jobs can provide a practical path into the medical field without requiring years of specialized education. Learn about roles such as medical receptionist, physical therapy technician, medical assistant, clinical coordinator, and surgical technician, plus how each can support long-term career growth.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that often feels worst with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Learn about common symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and when persistent heel pain may require evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist.

Total ankle replacement may help relieve chronic ankle pain and improve mobility when conservative treatments no longer work. Learn who may be a good candidate, which health and lifestyle factors can affect eligibility, and when another treatment such as ankle fusion may be considered.

Medical assisting can offer a fast path into healthcare, and Texas does not require state certification to begin working in the field. Learn what medical assistants do, the different ways to start your career, and how on-the-job training can provide hands-on experience in orthopedic care.

Osteoporosis can weaken bones over time and increase the risk of fractures, often without obvious early symptoms. Learn about common risk factors, the stages of osteoporosis, how it is diagnosed, and treatment options that can help protect bone health and reduce fracture risk.

Ankle fusion and ankle replacement both treat severe ankle arthritis, but they differ in how they affect joint motion, recovery, activity, and long-term options. Learn how each procedure works, the key differences between them, and which factors specialists consider when recommending treatment.

Pain management specialists treat both acute and chronic pain using options such as medications, physical therapy, injections, and other interventional treatments. Learn what pain management doctors do, the conditions they commonly treat, and how they can help improve mobility and quality of life.

Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses smaller incisions and specialized techniques to correct bunion deformities while reducing tissue disruption. Learn how the procedure works, its potential benefits, what recovery may look like, and when surgery may be considered.

Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement uses CT-based planning and surgeon-controlled robotic technology to help improve precision during surgery. Learn how the procedure works, who may be a candidate, its potential benefits, and what recovery can look like after surgery.

Cold weather can make joint pain and stiffness feel worse, especially for people with arthritis. Learn why temperature and barometric pressure changes may affect your joints, simple ways to stay comfortable, and when to see an orthopedic specialist.

Nerve pain and muscle pain can feel very different, even when they occur in the same area. Learn how to recognize common signs of nerve irritation, how they differ from muscle tension, and when persistent symptoms may require a spine or pain management evaluation.

Shoulder popping and snapping are often harmless, but pain, weakness, instability, or limited motion can signal an underlying problem. Learn common causes of shoulder clicking, when it may be normal, treatment options, and when to see an orthopedic specialist.

Knee dislocations are serious injuries that can damage multiple ligaments and sometimes affect nearby nerves or blood vessels. Learn what causes knee dislocations, how they are diagnosed and treated, ways to reduce your risk, and why prompt orthopedic evaluation is so important.

Recovery after orthopedic surgery depends on more than the procedure itself. Learn 10 practical tips for managing pain, reducing swelling, staying active safely, supporting healing with nutrition and hydration, and working closely with your healthcare team throughout recovery.

Orthopedic doctors diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons using both non-surgical and surgical approaches. Learn what orthopedic doctors and surgeons do, how their roles differ, and when it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist.

Physician-owned physical therapy clinics can offer therapists closer collaboration with orthopedic specialists, more integrated patient care, and opportunities to build specialized expertise. Learn how POPTS differ from independent clinics and the potential career benefits of working in a physician-owned setting.

Virtual orthopedic consultations can provide quick guidance for non-emergency injuries without a trip to the ER. Learn how the HURT! app connects patients with orthopedic specialists 24/7, what types of injuries are appropriate for virtual care, and the benefits of getting timely advice from home.

A SLAP tear can cause shoulder pain, clicking, weakness, and difficulty with overhead movement. Learn what causes SLAP tears, common symptoms, treatment options, recovery expectations, and when to see an orthopedic specialist.

ACL surgery recovery takes time, and following the right rehabilitation plan is essential for protecting the knee and rebuilding strength. Learn what to do before and after ACL surgery, which activities to avoid, and how physical therapy, icing, elevation, and nutrition can support recovery.

Meniscus injuries can cause knee pain, swelling, stiffness, and instability, especially after twisting or pivoting movements. Learn about common causes, treatment options, recovery timelines, and ways to help prevent future meniscus injuries.

One year after total knee replacement, many patients experience significant pain relief, improved strength, better mobility, and a return to everyday activities. Learn what recovery typically looks like at the one-year mark, including range of motion, swelling, activity levels, and long-term limitations.

Hip replacement surgery is often completed in under two hours, with many patients able to return home the same day. Learn what to expect before, during, and after surgery, including recovery timelines, physical therapy, and steps that can help support a smoother recovery.

Choosing where to go for an orthopedic injury depends on the severity of your symptoms and how quickly you need care. Learn when to visit the emergency room, orthopedic urgent care, or an orthopedic specialist, plus what to expect from each option.

Clavicle fracture treatment depends on the severity and alignment of the break, but many collarbone fractures heal well with proper care and rehabilitation. Learn about common causes, treatment options, recovery timelines, and how physical therapy can help restore shoulder strength and mobility.

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that commonly develop near joints or tendons in the wrist, hand, ankle, or foot. Learn what causes ganglion cysts, common symptoms, treatment options, and when it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist.

Visco gel injections may help relieve knee pain and improve joint function for people with osteoarthritis. Learn how knee gel injections work, their potential benefits, what to expect after treatment, and when to see an orthopedic specialist.

Ankle replacement recovery happens in stages, from initial pain management and non-weight-bearing to physical therapy, walking, and returning to everyday activities. Learn what to expect during each phase of recovery and how to support long-term mobility after surgery.

Hand exercises after surgery can help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion as you recover. Learn common post-surgical exercises for the fingers, hands, wrists, and forearms, along with tips for managing swelling and supporting a safe recovery.

ACL tear recovery can vary depending on the severity of the injury and whether surgery is needed. Learn typical recovery timelines, what to expect during rehabilitation, and tips for safely rebuilding knee strength, stability, and mobility.

Driving after rotator cuff surgery depends on your pain level, mobility, medications, and overall recovery progress. Learn what factors to consider before getting back behind the wheel, which activities to avoid, and how to support a safe recovery.

Knee taping can help provide support, improve stability, and relieve discomfort during activity or recovery. Learn common knee-taping techniques, how to apply and remove tape safely, and when to see an orthopedic specialist for persistent knee pain or instability.

Swelling is common after foot or ankle surgery, but proper recovery strategies can help manage it. Learn how rest, elevation, ice, compression, medications, and other post-surgical care steps may help reduce swelling and support recovery.

A rotator cuff tear doesn’t always require surgery. Learn about nonsurgical treatment options, recovery timelines, and when rotator cuff surgery may be recommended.

A bicep tear can cause sudden pain, weakness, bruising, and changes in the shape of the upper arm. Learn the common symptoms, types of biceps tendon tears, treatment options, recovery timelines, and when to see an orthopedic specialist.