When we think of gout, we might think of Renaissance-era royalty and indulgent feasts. But gout is still very much with us in the 21st Century. Gout is actually a type of arthritis that can affect any joint in the body. But it often strikes first in the form of sudden pain in your big toe. Here’s a look at what causes gout, how to treat and prevent it, and why our big toe is so susceptible. What … [Read more...]

As we age, bone and joint health take on more importance. Maybe we’ve had an injury and are looking to support healing. Perhaps we’re concerned about osteoporosis or arthritis and seeking ways to stay healthy. Vitamins, minerals, and other supplements can play a role in keeping bones and joints healthy. But make sure they’re part of a big-picture plan that includes diet, exercise, and support from … [Read more...]

Many of us associate broken bones with a traditional plaster cast--the kind our friends would sign in grade school. But casts--and other treatments for arm and leg injuries-- have changed over the years. For many fractures, casts still play a crucial role in the healing process. But for other injuries, orthopaedists are now opting for removable modern splints and boots that offer greater comfort … [Read more...]

There are so many reasons to stay active at every age. We want to look good and feel good. Physical activity gets your blood flowing, keeps bones and muscles strong and joints flexible. Experts have discovered some eye-opening information about what happens if we stop moving. When we stop exercising, we see an increased risk for heart disease and other illnesses, damage to our joints, and adverse … [Read more...]

Maybe it dawns on us when opening a jar becomes a challenge. Or when holding that tennis racquet doesn’t feel like it used to. When stiff, swollen fingers make daily tasks difficult, arthritis may be the cause. The small joints of the fingers are the most arthritis-prone spot on your body. And while arthritis isn’t the only cause of stiff fingers, it’s one of the big ones, especially in older … [Read more...]

For many of us, exercise is the secret to staying sane in the most challenging times. Like diet and nutrition, staying active is a crucial tool in fighting our nation’s obesity epidemic. But the benefits go far beyond weight loss. Physical activity makes us healthier and happier. It helps us keep a positive outlook and make social connections. And it helps seniors live longer and maintain a higher … [Read more...]

Chronic pain is an American epidemic. According to a 2018 CDC report, chronic pain impacts 50 million people in the U.S.-- more than 20 percent of adults. Over the last two decades, opioids became standard, and prescriptions skyrocketed. But as the medical community and the public have become aware of the negative consequences of long-term use of opioids, including addiction and overdose, it’s … [Read more...]