What Are the Causes of Patellofemoral Arthritis?

Patellofemoral arthritis is an inflammatory condition that impacts the joint where the kneecap (patella) meets the thighbone (femur). You may experience regional pain, stiffness, and trouble walking. For some, these symptoms are so severe that they impact the ability to stay mobile and, therefore, quality of life. Unfortunately, there are several causes of patellofemoral arthritis.

Common Causes of Patellofemoral Arthritis

1. Overuse

Overuse injuries occur when you damage tissues again and again in a short time without allowing them to heal correctly.

You may be unaware of the damage because it is so minor. Each time we damage tissues, the body starts the repair process. This is interrupted and restarted repeatedly, which can lead to incomplete or inadequate healing along with inflammation.

2. Injury

You may have experienced a more significant knee injury during sports, a car accident, or other events. The knee may have not healed completely or fully, leading to patellofemoral arthritis.

3. Dysplasia

Dysplasia happens when the kneecap does not fit quite right. This leads to stress on the knee cartilage and extra wear and tear from everyday activities.

Other Risk Factors Amplify Causes of Patellofemoral Arthritis

There are certain risk factors that can increase the chance that one of the above occurs. These include but are not limited to:

  • Being over 40, although much younger people can have this too
  • Being overweight
  • History of other joint arthritis
  • Having an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis

There is no cure for patellofemoral arthritis. However, lifestyle adaptations, precautions, and treatment can address many of the risk factors and causes of patellofemoral arthritis, reducing its impact on your life. These could include:

  • Respecting recovery days after a hard workout/game
  • Weight loss
  • Exercise
  • Physical therapy
  • Taking NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
  • Cortisone injections

In some cases, surgeries may be required when more conservative treatments do not provide the desired level of relief. It is best to contact our doctor to discuss your treatment options to determine what can be done to help you.

Reclaim Your Active Lifestyle From Patellofemoral Arthritis

If symptoms of this condition impact your ability to function and enjoy daily life in Sanford or Pinehurst, NC, call to schedule an appointment with board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. John R. Moore, IV, at 910-295-0224. Dr. Moore has more than two decades of experience helping individuals with their orthopedic needs. You can trust that he will do everything possible to ensure you achieve the best possible results.

Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery

Top Benefits of Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery

Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery

Having to undergo a joint replacement surgery does not have to cause a major disruption in your life. Thanks to the benefits of outpatient joint replacement surgery, patients now have the freedom and flexibility to recover from their surgery comfortably at home. If you are in need of joint replacement surgery, consider the benefits of utilizing an outpatient facility.

What Is Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery?

Technological advancements have made the total replacement of some joints, such as the knee or hip, a minimally invasive procedure. Outpatient joint replacement surgery uses state-of-the-art equipment and an outpatient surgical center to complete the procedure.

What Is an Outpatient Surgical Center?

An outpatient surgical center is similar to a hospital setting but more comfortable. Our outpatient facility provides a concierge experience with two qualified, dedicated nurses for each patient. After surgery, you spend just one night at the center. You are then discharged, and therapists will go directly to your home for sessions.

What Are the Benefits of Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery?

Eliminating the need for extended hospital stays means lower medical costs. Other unique benefits include:

  • Lower risk of surgical complications such as post-operative infection
  • Faster recovery times
  • Less stress
  • A more relaxed recovery

Few people feel comfortable lying in a hospital bed. Recovering at home allows you to relax as your body heals.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery?

Our doctor will evaluate your overall health and joint condition to determine if outpatient surgery is the right option for you. A candidate for it would typically be:

  • Healthy – Certain preexisting conditions might mean you need more medical monitoring than you can get in an outpatient surgical center. For example, someone with kidney disease might not be a practical candidate.
  • Motivated – Recovering at home takes willpower, so you must be motivated to do the exercises and follow the discharge orders.

Set up a Consultation With Dr. John R. Moore, IV

Find out your options for joint replacement surgery by making an appointment with board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. John R. Moore, IV, in Pinehurst, NC. Call 910-295-0224 to schedule an appointment.

soft tissue in the shoulder

What Is Soft Tissue in the Shoulder?

soft tissue in the shoulderWhile orthopaedic surgeons often help patients heal from bone injuries, they also make a wide range of soft tissue repairs. In the shoulder, there is a wide range of soft tissue that helps provide this vital joint with flexibility and a full range of motion.

The soft tissue of the shoulder consists of muscles, such as the deltoid and rotator cuff, and the ligaments and tendons that connect them to bones. When a person sustains a shoulder injury, we often focus on soft tissue repair that can restore function and mobility.

The Muscles of the Shoulder

The shoulder has eight muscles to provide movement, flexibility, stability, and structure to the joint. From lifting grocery bags to throwing a ball, your shoulder muscles are key players when it comes to performing everyday tasks.

As skeletal muscles, the shoulder muscles are attached to the bone with tendons, fibrous connective tissue. They’re also voluntary muscles, which means you have full control over how and when they move.

The key shoulder muscles are:

  • The deltoid
  • Rotator cuff muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis)
  • Trapezius
  • Rhomboid major and minor muscles
  • Levator scapulae
  • Pectoralis major
  • Latissimus dorsi
  • Serratus anterior

These muscles play a key role in supporting the ball-and-socket joint that connects the upper arm bone (humerus) to the shoulder blade.

Shoulder Tendons and Ligaments

Tendons and ligaments both play an important role in shoulder function, but tendons connect muscles to bones and ligaments connect bone to bone. Tendons help stabilize the rotator cuff muscles and facilitate movement while the ligaments provide structural support.

Both are equally important, but they can be affected differently depending on the type of shoulder injury a person has. Treatment options can range from rest and anti-inflammatory medications to physical therapy and surgical repair.

Treat Shoulder Pain With the Help of Dr. John R. Moore, IV

Dr. Moore is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon who proudly operates out of Pinehurst, NC. His passion for patient care provides unwavering support and personalized treatment.

He proudly runs Pinehurst Surgical Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Center with his wife, Michelle, who tends to her patients as a physician assistant with over 20 years of experience.

To book an appointment, visit our contact page or call us at

Outpatient Joint replacement surgery

Maximize the Benefits of Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery

Outpatient Joint replacement surgery
Joint pain can significantly affect your quality of life, making even simple daily tasks a challenge. If you’ve been living with chronic joint pain, you may have considered joint replacement surgery as a solution. In recent years, outpatient joint replacement surgery has gained popularity as a less invasive and more convenient option for patients.

Reduced Stay

One of the most significant advantages of outpatient joint replacement surgery is the shortened hospital stay. Unlike traditional inpatient procedures that require several days of hospitalization, outpatient surgery allows patients to return home on the same day. This means you can recover in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by familiar surroundings and loved ones.

Lower Risk of Infection

Staying in a hospital for an extended period increases the risk of hospital-acquired infections. Outpatient surgery reduces this risk since you spend less time in the hospital environment. This can lead to a faster and smoother recovery process, with fewer complications along the way.

Faster Recovery

Outpatient joint replacement surgery often involves minimally invasive techniques and advanced technologies, resulting in less trauma to the surrounding tissues. As a result, patients typically experience less pain and inflammation after the surgery, allowing for a quicker recovery. Many patients can resume light activities and return to work sooner than with traditional surgery.

Cost-Effective

Choosing outpatient joint replacement surgery can also be cost-effective. Shorter hospital stays mean reduced medical bills and lower overall healthcare costs. Additionally, you might avoid some of the expenses associated with extended hospital stays, such as parking, meals, and additional services.

Improved Patient Satisfaction

Patients who undergo outpatient joint replacement surgery often report higher levels of satisfaction with the entire experience. The convenience of same-day surgery, reduced hospitalization, and faster recovery can contribute to an overall positive perception of the procedure.

Book an Appointment

Outpatient joint replacement surgery offers numerous benefits that can significantly improve the experience and outcomes for those suffering from chronic joint pain. If you or a loved one is considering joint replacement surgery, discuss the possibility of outpatient surgery with Pinehurst Surgical. Dr. John Moore and his team proudly serve Pinehurst, NC, and surrounding areas. Call 910-295-0224 to schedule an appointment.

Hip replacement

The Pros and Cons of Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement
Millions of Americans have had their lives drastically changed by hip replacement surgery. It entails removing diseased or harmed hip joint components and implanting replacements in their place. While this surgery can significantly reduce pain and increase mobility, it’s important to thoroughly consider the benefits and drawbacks before deciding whether to get it.

The Pros

Pain Relief

One of the most significant benefits of hip replacement surgery is the relief it offers from chronic hip pain. Whether caused by arthritis, injury, or other conditions, a successful hip replacement can substantially reduce or even eliminate pain, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Improved Mobility

A successful hip replacement can help you regain lost mobility and the pain-free ability to carry out daily tasks. This will increase thanks to your increased mobility, which will also enable you to live an active lifestyle.

Durability

Modern hip implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting. This means if the surgery is successful and well-maintained, you can expect your new hip joint to provide reliable function for many years.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Patients frequently report a significant increase in their general quality of life when their pain is reduced, and their mobility is regained. Many people are able to resume interests they loved before they developed hip problems, such as hiking, gardening, or even just pain-free walking.

The Cons

Recovery Time

Recovering from hip replacement surgery can be a lengthy process. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential, and it may take several weeks or even months to fully regain strength and mobility.

Lifestyle Adjustments

After hip replacement surgery, you may need to make some lifestyle adjustments. High-impact activities like running or jumping may no longer be recommended, and certain movements may need to be modified.

Prosthesis Wear

While modern hip implants are durable, they are not immune to wear and tear. Over time, the artificial joint may wear down, potentially requiring revision surgery.

Schedule an Appointment

For those with hip pain and limited mobility, hip replacement surgery has the potential to completely transform their lives. The choice to have this surgery should be taken after carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages. Consult with Pinehurst Surgical located in Pinehurst and Sanford, NC. Call 910-295-0224 to book an appointment.

knee replacement surgery

5 Signs It May Be Time for Knee Replacement Surgery

knee replacement surgeryIn most cases, the choice to have knee replacement surgery is not made on a whim. Usually, a gradual worsening of knee pain and stiffness has already occurred over the course of several months or even years. If your knee discomfort has become intolerable, here are five signs that it may be time to consider knee surgery.

5 Reasons to Consider a Knee Replacement

You Have Severe Arthritis

If your knee joint is deteriorating from severe arthritis, you might want to consider knee replacement surgery. There are several types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, traumatic arthritis (injury-related), and avascular necrosis, which happens when the knee does not get an adequate supply of blood.

Your Knees Are Constantly in Pain

Debilitating knee pain may indicate that the strain on the knee joint is becoming worse. Avoid ignoring knee discomfort that worsens over time or occurs often, particularly if it lasts more than a few weeks, prevents you from sleeping, or does not react to prescription medications.

You Are Struggling to Keep Up With Daily Activities

You should consider seeking long-term knee treatment or surgery if your pain is enough to keep you from completing regular tasks or taking care of yourself. Pay particular attention whenever you’re sitting, standing, or climbing stairs—medical intervention may be necessary if you are unable to complete these activities without discomfort, stiffness, or needing assistance.

Your Knees Are Keeping You From Doing the Things You Love

Your knees should not be so bad that they keep you from spending time with the people you care about or enjoying simple hobbies, such as taking walks in nature. Whatever your interests or passions may be, whether it’s cooking or hiking, knee discomfort should not be a reason for you to give up a life worth living.

Nonsurgical Treatments No Longer Work

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intra-articular steroid injections, and viscosupplementation are all examples of conservative treatments that may alleviate pain and restore function in the early stages of knee disease.

However, if the arthritic process worsens over time, patients will have worsening pain and diminished function that cannot be treated with conservative methods alone. A complete knee replacement should be carefully considered at this stage.

Schedule a Consultation for Knee Replacement Surgery in Pinehurst, NC

For more information about knee replacement surgery in Pinehurst, NC, or to see if you’re a good candidate for this procedure, schedule an appointment with Dr. Moore at the Pinehurst Surgical Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Center today by calling (910) 295-0224.

hip bursitis

Do You Have Hip Bursitis?

hip bursitisHip bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the sacs found near the hip joint. These sacs, known as bursae, are fluid-filled and function to help cushion the joint and surrounding muscle, ligament, and other tissues.

Many diseases and injuries can present the same pain and symptoms of hip bursitis, so working with a specialist is the best way to ensure you’re diagnosed and treated properly. Understanding the symptoms of hip bursitis and working with an orthopaedic surgeon can help alleviate pain and bring relief.

How Do You Know If You Have Hip Bursitis? 

Hip bursitis can have symptoms that are non-specific to hip bursitis alone; however, here are the most common hip bursitis symptoms.

  • Joint pain that is severe enough to not allow walking
  • Inability to move the joint
  • Swelling and inflammation of the hip
  • Bruising in the hip area
  • Sharp, piercing pain that happens during exertion
  • A fever

Hip bursitis presents very similarly to other conditions, such as arthritis, tendonitis, undefined damage to the hip area, and even a hip fracture.. Working with an experienced and knowledgeable orthopaedic surgeon is the best way to receive a proper diagnosis.

How Is Hip Bursitis Treated? 

With proper diagnosis, treatment is possible. There are plenty of non-surgical treatments that your doctor may utilize. These can range from lifestyle changes to injections.

Your doctor may prescribe alterations to your daily lifestyle. For example, if you’re a runner, either taking a break for a while until symptoms alleviate or examining your running gait can lead to improvements in your hip bursitis.

Your doctor may also utilize non-steroidal anti-inflammatories that can help decrease inflammation. Coupled with examining the root cause of your hip bursitis, this may give you the opportunity to fully heal.

Your orthopaedic surgeon will be able to offer a variety of treatments that are tailored to you and your hip bursitis. In the event that a non-surgical intervention does not work, you may need surgery to remove the bursa. Under the hands of a good orthopaedic surgeon, your hip function and health won’t be affected.

Dr. John Moore Can Help Bring You Hip Pain Relief 

From diagnosis to treatment, hip bursitis is a condition that requires experience and knowledge. At Dr. John Moore’s offices located in North Carolina, you can expect experienced, professional care supplemented by decades of knowledge gained through practice and education. Board-certified Dr. Moore is certain to be able to bring pain relief to you. If you’ve been suffering from hip pain, make sure to call 910-295-0224 or schedule an appointment today.

Athroscopy

What Conditions Can an Arthroscopy Help Diagnose?

AthroscopyTaking care of your joints is an essential part of your health. Your joints are one of many types of connective tissue that enable your body to move and function properly. However, many conditions, injuries, and diseases can inhibit proper joint function. Because joints are inside the body, it can be difficult to properly diagnose these conditions. Thankfully, an arthroscopy can get an internal view of your joints and help catch issues early. Let’s take a look at what an arthroscopy is and what conditions it can help diagnose.

What Is an Arthroscopy?

An arthroscopy is a surgical procedure where an arthroscope is used to view the joints. The procedure is minimally invasive and uses a pencil-sized tube with a camera on the end so your doctor can see inside the body. This flexible tube’s camera is connected to a nearby monitor where your doctor can view your joint in real-time. This lets your doctor check for injuries, damage, or abnormalities. This is how your doctor can diagnose hidden issues without the need to open the body with surgical instruments.

Diagnosable Conditions

An arthroscopy is not a corrective or rehabilitative treatment. Instead, it is used to diagnose and help a doctor get a better idea of what’s happening in your joints. Let’s go over some common conditions where this is useful.

Bone Spurs

Bone spurs are small boney projections that often form where bones meet each other at the joint. Bone spurs are most commonly found in the hip, knee, and spine. Most bone spurs are asymptomatic and cause no pain. However, they can sometimes cause pain and swelling and limit the range of motion.

Cartilage Tears

Tears in the cartilage can happen from an injury or medical condition. This can cause pain, catching, limited range of motion, and stiffness. This can An arthroscopy can commonly help diagnose a tear in the hip joint cartilage.

Ligament Tears

Ligaments are essential connective tissue that can become torn from strenuous activities or injuries. This is common in the knee with ACL or MCL tears. An arthroscopy is often used to properly determine the severity of the tear.

Seeking Treatment

An arthroscopy is an essential part of the diagnostic process for major joint issues. That’s why Dr. John Moore includes arthroscopies as part of his diagnostic toolkit. Dr. Moore is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who brings decades of experience to every procedure. If you’re in need of orthopaedic assistance or require an arthroscopy, contact Dr. Moore’s office at 910-295-0224 today.

woman putting hand on neck- Osteoarthritis treatment

Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis, What’s the Difference?

woman putting hand on neck- Osteoarthritis treatmentIt’s commonly known that arthritis is the inflammation and pain of the joints. However, different types of arthritis, like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, are often confused. These types of arthritis are completely different, and it’s important to know the difference in your joint health. Let’s take a look at osteoarthritis versus rheumatoid arthritis so you can better understand your joint health.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is actually an autoimmune disease that causes a unique form of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused when your body’s immune system targets and attacks your own tissue and connective joints. This leads to the degeneration of tissue, and the lack of tissue leads to irritation of the joint. Joints affected with rheumatoid arthritis can become swollen and deformed over time.

Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, like the skin, lungs, eyes, blood vessels, and even the heart. Modern advancements have greatly increased the ways we can treat rheumatoid arthritis. However, the condition is chronic and severe cases can be debilitating.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is what most people think of when arthritis comes to mind. It is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions of people every year. Osteoarthritis occurs as the joint naturally wears and tears over time. There is protective cartilage that acts as a cushion between most joints.

Over time that protective cartilage can wear down and become thin. This leads to your bones moving and grinding in unintentional ways and leading to inflammation. Osteoarthritis is chronic, but things like losing weight, staying active, and certain procedures can make slow the condition and make life easier.

Seeking Treatment For Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. That’s why Dr. John Moore IV, with the Pinehurst Surgical Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Center, provides treatment options for osteoarthritis. Dr. Moore has been providing his community with orthopaedic care for over 15 years and wants to offer his experience and expertise to your joint health. No one’s joint situation is the same, and Dr. Moore will evaluate each patient and provide treatment that caters to their needs and joint health goals. Trust results and personalized care and contact Dr. Moore’s office at 910-295-0224 today.

asian woman suffering from hip joint pain

Understanding Hip Bursitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Hip bursitis is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the hip area in many people. Understanding hip bursitis can help you make informed health decisions and seek appropriate care if you have symptoms. Our blog post discusses the two major types of hip bursitis and their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

What is Hip Bursitis?

Hip bursitis occurs when one of the two major bursae in the hip becomes inflamed. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues. They help reduce friction and allow for smooth movement. The greater trochanteric bursa covers the hip’s bony point, and this bursa’s inflammation is called trochanteric bursitis. It is the more common form of hip bursitis. The iliopsoas bursa is located on the inside of the hip toward the groin. It is far less commonly affected, but inflammation in this bursa is known as iliopsoas bursitis.

Causes of Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis can result from a variety of factors, including:

  • Repetitive stress or overuse: Activities that involve repetitive hip movements like running, cycling, or climbing stairs can cause irritation and inflammation in the bursae.
  • Trauma or injury: A direct blow to the hip or a fall can lead to bursitis.
  • Hip bone spurs or calcium deposits: These can irritate the bursa and cause inflammation.
  • Poor posture or muscle imbalances: Misalignment of the hips and pelvis can place stress on the bursae.
  • Underlying medical conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and lupus are some of the conditions that can cause hip bursitis.

Symptoms of Hip Bursitis

The primary symptom of hip bursitis is a pain in the affected hip. In the case of trochanteric bursitis, pain is typically felt on the outer side of the hip and may radiate down the thigh. Iliopsoas bursitis often causes pain in the groin area. Other symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, stiffness in the hip joint, and difficulty sleeping on the affected side.

Treatment Options for Hip Bursitis

Treatment for hip bursitis typically begins with conservative measures, such as:

  • Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities aggravating the condition can help reduce inflammation.
  • Ice and anti-inflammatory medications: These can help reduce pain and swelling.
  • Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and posture.
  • Corticosteroid injections: These may be recommended for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.

Hip bursitis may require surgery to address the underlying cause or to remove an inflamed bursa in rare cases.

Contact us today for more information about Hip Bursitis treatments at 910-295-0224. We serve Pinehurst and surrounding areas.