When it comes to persistent back pain caused by conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or herniated discs, spine fusion is a surgical option that can provide much-needed relief. This procedure involves the fusion of two or more vertebrae in the spine, stabilizing the affected area and reducing pain.
Conditions treated with spine fusion:
Over time, our bodies can undergo changes due to various factors. One common phenomenon is the development of sciatica, a condition resulting from injury or pressure on the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the hips and down each leg.
Common symptoms associated with sciatica include:
While acute injuries like wrist fractures, ankle sprains, shoulder dislocations, and hamstring strains typically result from a single traumatic event, overuse injuries develop gradually and are more subtle. They occur due to repetitive microtrauma to the tendons, bones, and joints. Common examples include tennis elbow, swimmer's shoulder, runner's knee, jumper's knee, Achilles tendinitis, and shin splints.
In most sports and activities, overuse injuries are both prevalent and challenging to diagnose and treat.
As the body's largest tendon, the Achilles tendon plays a crucial role in walking, running, and jumping. However, when the tendon stretches beyond its limit, it can rupture, resulting in a partial or complete tear. This typically occurs due to a sudden and forceful movement, such as jumping, pivoting, or quick changes in direction. It can also happen during trips or falls.
A troubling trend is emerging on playing fields and basketball courts—young girls leaping or changing direction, only to crumble in agonizing pain. Nationwide, girls experience serious knee injuries, such as ACL tears, at much higher rates than boys participating in the same sports.
Carrell Clinic, with locations in Dallas and Frisco, has welcomed two new advanced experts to its team. Shoulder and elbow surgeon Holt S. Cutler, M.D., and hip and knee replacement surgeon Tyler R.
Dr. Holt Cutler is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in the comprehensive management of shoulder and elbow disorders and injuries at Carrell Clinic. He was born and raised in Dallas and is a graduate of St. Mark’s School of Texas.
Dr. Tyler Youngman is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic hip and knee surgeon at Carrell Clinic. He specializes in primary, complex, and revision hip and knee replacement, hip preservation, including periacetabular osteotomy, and treatment of fractures, dislocations, and infections around the knee and hip. He has a particular interest in anterior hip replacement, robotic-assisted or computer-navigated surgeries, and hip preservation.
Sherman Jovahn Long is a native of Arlington, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in cellular biology from Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, where he also played collegiate basketball. Jovahn received his Master of Science degree in physician assistant studies from Harding University in Arkansas.
Jennifer is a native of Trabuco, California. She received her bachelor’s degree in physiological science from the University of California, Los Angeles, and received her master’s degree in physician assistant studies at Mercer University in Atlanta, Georgia. She has previously served as a sports medicine physician assistant in the San Diego area before moving to Dallas.