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An orthopedist is a physician with specialized training in diagnosing and treating a full range of musculoskeletal issues, from stiff knees to swollen wrists. "The most common issues we see are arthritis, tendonitis in the wrist or hand, bursitis, and ligament injuries such as meniscus and rotator cuff tears," says Brian N. Kanz, M.D., an orthopedist at CHRISTUS Westover Hills Orthopaedics. "While orthopedists are known for their surgical skills, patients shouldn't necessarily wait to see us until they need surgery." Dr. Kanz encourages people to visit an orthopedist for any musculoskeletal discomfort that continues to hinder their enjoyment of daily life. The most common symptoms that drive patients to visit Dr. Kanz include: + crepitation (popping, clicking, buckling or grinding in the joint) + pain, especially at night + swelling After diagnosing the problem, an orthopedist will develop a treatment plan using conservative methods first. This might include anti-inflammatory medications, topical pain creams, injections, ice and heat therapy, rest, bracing, and physical therapy. "If these measures fail to reduce the pain, we can begin discussing surgery," Dr. Kanz says. "We will try all the appropriate treatment options to get patients back on their feet." CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System offers advanced orthopedic services in San Antonio and New Braunfels to keep you moving. To learn more, visit christussantarosa.org/orthopedics. Think Before You Sweat Are you guilty of any of these sports- or workout-related gaŠes? Not all aches and pains require specialty care — but for those that do, an orthopedist can help before the need forƒsurgery. A First Step to End Joint Pain I WANT TO START EXERCISING, AND THAT UP-TEMPO CARDIO WORKOUT CL ASS AT THE GYM LOOKS FUN. I THINK I'LL TRY IT. Before diving into a high-intensity activity, you're better off easing your way into exercise. Instead, start with a month or two of low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming or cycling, with the addition of progressive resistance training. "I have treated many patients who tried workouts such as Zumba ® after years of not exercising who ended up with meniscal [cartilage] tears in the knees," says Jeffrey Dean, M.D., orthopedic sports medicine physician at CHRISTUS Westover Hills Orthopaedics. "Easing into exercise can help individuals avoid potentially painful injuries that limit function." MY WARM-UP BEFORE RUNNING IS FIVE MINUTES OF INTENSIVE STRETCHING. Stretching is important, but do it after you get the blood flowing to your muscles. "Stretching cold doesn't facilitate full range of motion," Dr. Dean says. "Spend 10 minutes on a stationary bike or take a brisk walk before stretching. Follow those steps in reverse to cool down after exercise." MY SHOULDER REALLY HURTS WHEN I SWING THE TENNIS RACKET, BUT IT'S PROBABLY BECAUSE I HAVEN'T PLAYED IN A MONTH. I'LL PUSH THROUGH IT. A little pain after a lengthy layoff is normal, but significant pain is a red flag — and continuing to play could cause or exacerbate a soft-tissue injury. Call 1 (877) 250-DOCS or visit findachristusdoc.org to schedule an appointment with a board- certified orthopedic specialist if you experience a sports injury. 9 LiveWell | Spring 2015