Expert Upper Extremity CareDiagnosing and treating upper extremity injuries and conditions requires highly specialized training and skills. After all, your hands alone are made up of roughly one-quarter of all the bones in your body. We have specialists, surgeons and therapists with the expertise you need.You can trust you're in good hands because we are the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder specialists. We have one of the busiest upper extremity programs in the state. We help many with chronic hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder problems manage their pain and function better.
Condition
Conditions/Services/Treatments Page
Hand, Wrist, Elbow and Shoulder Pain
We treat a wide range of hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder problems. We also work hand-in-hand with you to manage your pain and improve function.Hand, Wrist, Shoulder and Elbow Conditions and InjuriesFrom typing and painting to peeling potatoes and driving in a screw, you use your hands for nearly everything. Plus, they're capable of both strong and delicate movements — grabbing a chin-up bar while hefting your full body weight, and threading a needle, for instance.Many of these same tasks also rely on your wrists, elbows and shoulders. So do daily activities such as getting dressed and carrying bags of groceries. All that movement leads to many different types of problems.Luminis Health Orthopedics treats all kinds of hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder injuries and conditions, including:Arthritis.Dupuytren's disease.DeQuervian's tendonitis.Fractures and dislocations.Frozen shoulder.Ganglion cysts.Nerve decompressions such as carpal tunnel release.Rotator cuff tear.Shoulder instability.Sprains.Tendonitis.Tendon repair.Tennis elbow.Trigger finger.
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Men's Health, Physical Therapy, Senior Care, Women's Health, Wellness
General Page Tier 3
How to Garden with Hand Arthritis
Blog
If you love to garden, you’re not alone. Almost 75 percent of all U.S. households work on their lawn and garden, according to a 2016 National Gardening Survey.
While it may seem like a chore to some, working in your garden can actually be good for both your mind and body. Benefits include exposure to Vitamin D and stress relief, to name just a few.
But what if you’re one of the 50 million Americans who have arthritis? According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions that cause joint pain. Two of the most common are degenerative and inflammatory arthritis.
Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) involves degeneration of joint cartilage, causing joint pain, stiffness and loss of mobility in hands and wrists. Inflammatory arthritis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when uncontrolled inflammation leads to joint erosion.
The type of arthritis you have determines how you manage it. But arthritis doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying a day in your garden. Getting your hands dirty without extra pain can be as simple as working smarter, not harder.
Here are some tips for a more enjoyable gardening season:
Listen to your doctor or therapist’s advice to manage pain.
Make your garden easier to access. For example, raise your garden beds so they’re easier to reach. Choose low-maintenance plants, such as perennials instead of annuals.
Choose tools and equipment that encourage good body mechanics and minimize strain. Examples include lightweight tools, tools with ergonomic handles and gloves to protect and cushion joints.
Modify your activity in the garden as necessary. Switch tasks every half hour, take breaks and ask for help if you need it.
When possible, use larger, stronger joints and muscles. For instance, use your forearms and shoulders to carry objects instead of your fingers or hands.
Listen to your body, and stop if you feel pain. Minimize repetitive pinching and gripping, as well as sustained gripping.
Weed when the soil is moist.
If you have arthritis that is causing wrist or hand pain, talk to a medical professional. A doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist can give you a personalized treatment and pain management plan.
Having arthritis doesn’t mean you have to give up growing flowers, fruits and vegetables. Protect your joints, and avoid overuse and fatigue to help keep you in the gardening game.
Originally published Sept. 17, 2017. Last updated March 9, 2020.
Author
Raina Lyght, MPT, is a physical and certified hand therapist with AAMG Physical Therapy. To contact her office, call 443-481-1140.
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Men's Health, Women's Health, Pediatrics, Uncategorized, Patient Stories
General Page Tier 3
Caring Hands for the Littlest Patients
Blog
Pasadena residents Cristina and Matt knew they were in good hands, but they’ve seen more of the inside of a hospital than any new parent should. When their eleven week old son, Beckett, was diagnosed with a lung infection caused by RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), the Pediatric Department became their second home for seven days.
When Beckett got RSV, he was extremely ill with a high fever, coughing and sneezing. When we realized he was going to be there for a little bit longer than we thought, Nurse Tim attached a little sound machine to the crib in the room. He also gave us a fleece blanket to make Beckett’s stay a little more comfortable. One of the lead nurses, Melanie, also provided a bouncy seat, Beckett’s favorite, as well as some toys and a rocking chair for us to help comfort him.
They are absolutely amazing people with huge hearts. You can tell they all love their jobs and are passionate about children.
In addition to Beckett being sick, his father and I were too. The incredible part is that the kind nurses supported us too. We traded shifts with him so we could get rest to be healthy for him. My husband would come at dinner to trade and the nurses would keep an eye on Beckett so Matt and I could grab a bite to eat in the cafeteria together.
They have a room called the “nourishment center.” It’s a way for parents to get things like juices, yogurts, bagels, and crackers to avoid having to travel to the cafeteria multiple times—a way to feel a sense of home.
Having Beckett so incredibly ill was the scariest thing we’ve gone through, especially being first time parents, but having the doctors and nurses in a pediatric setting was a true blessing. We couldn’t have survived the week without their support. We trusted our newborn was in wonderful caring hands.
I also have to say that Pediatrics Department is probably the most adorable place on the face of the earth. It has a whole nautical sailor theme. It’s so cute. If I were a kid it definitely wouldn’t be as scary going there.
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Location
233471
tel:(410) 544-4263
127 Lubrano Dr, Ste 202, Annapolis, MD 21401
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Orthopedics, Wellness
General Page Tier 3
Joint Pain and Problems: Is It Time for a Joint Replacement?
Blog
We all notice sore and stiff joints occasionally, like a sore hip after skiing or stiff shoulders after heavy lifting. Often, these issues go away on their own. But if you find sore and stiff joints are taking a toll on your daily life, it could be time to consider surgery. Our experts weigh in on when you should opt for surgery, and what to expect during recovery.
Is there a best time for surgery?
There’s no perfect time of year for joint replacement surgery. The best time, really, is when it’s most convenient for you.
Some people may reach a point where the pain becomes unbearable, and mobility issues disrupt their daily life. In that case, they may opt for surgery right away. Others are able to plan ahead and schedule surgery at a time that fits their work or family commitments. If you have the flexibility to plan, there are a few factors worth considering.
For example, if you usually have a busy holiday season in late winter, you may want to schedule surgery in the early fall. This timing allows for recovery before large family gatherings and activities.
On the other hand, if you participate in spring or summer sports, it could be best to schedule surgery in winter. That way, you’ll be healed and ready to make the most of the warmer months.
5 signs it’s time for a joint replacement
You may be tempted to put surgery off until your pain is unbearable. In some cases, delaying could lead to more joint damage and a longer recovery. Instead, consider discussing joint replacement with your provider if you have these problems:
You need help with daily tasks like walking up and down stairs, getting dressed or standing up.
Joint pain keeps you awake at night even after you’ve taken pain-relieving medication.
Other treatment options like anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections and physical therapy have failed.
You make decisions about activities based on how far you must walk or if you must use stairs.
You have advanced joint damage or osteoarthritis.
Recovery is part of the process
Surgical advancements have transformed joint replacement procedures. Operations take less time, incisions are smaller, pain is reduced and recovery is faster. Most of the time hip and knee replacement surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis. Still, it’s important to remember that healing takes time. Your body needs time to adjust, strengthen, and help you return safely to your usual routine.
Here’s what to expect during recovery and how to set yourself up for a smooth return to the activities you love.
Pain management begins immediately.Even with a minimally invasive procedure, you’re going to feel some pain. Your provider may suggest medications for pain, inflammation, or nerve pain.
You’ll be up and moving within hours.Most patients start walking with a walker shortly after surgery, then transition to a cane as they gain strength.
Physical therapy is essential.Rehabilitation starts as soon as you can get out of bed to improve motion and rebuild strength.
You’ll return to a fully active life.Typically, patients are back to their usual routines within two to three months, although a full recovery can take up to a year. Be patient with yourself as you regain strength and mobility.
If you have questions about joint replacement surgery or want to schedule a procedure, make an appointment with Luminis Health Orthopedics at Luminis.Health/JointPain. Our experienced and caring team is ready to support your recovery every step of the way.
Authors
Dr. Andrey Zuskov is a hip and knee replacement surgeon at Luminis Health.
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