Orthopaedic Services Pinehurst, NC

The Importance of RICE for an Injury

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Immediately after any type of accident or sports-related injury, there is one thing— other than scheduling an appointment with Dr. John Moore— that we encourage all of our patients to do: RICE. And although you may like to eat rice with your Chinese food, this is a different type of rice that we are talking about.

Rest

If you are particularly active, this may be the hardest thing for you to do but it’s also one of the most important. The more rest you give your injury, the faster it is going to heal and the less likely you are to injure it further.

Ice

Icing your injury is one of the fastest ways to get rid of inflammation. When icing your injury, try to use a soft gel ice pack that molds around your bones and joints— that way your entire injury is being iced. Try to ice on for about 15-20 minutes at a time and then allow your skin to breathe for about the same amount of time. Repeat throughout the day as necessary.

Compress

If you got an elbow, wrist, ankle, or knee injury, one of the best things you can do is to wear a tight compress until you come into see, Dr. John Moore. When choosing a compress, make sure that it fits around your injury snuggly but not so tight that it cuts off any sort of circulation.

Elevate

While you’re resting during the day and while you’re sleeping at night, make sure that you elevate your injury above the heart. The elevation will help reduce the inflammation by allowing fluid to drain from that area.

RICE is one of the best things you can do for any injury. If you were recently injured, schedule your appointment at our Pinehurst office today: 910-295-0224.

Orthopaedic Services Pinehurst, NC

How to Prepare for Orthopaedic Surgery

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Now that the holidays are behind us, you likely have more time in your schedule to finally schedule that orthopedic surgery from Dr. John Moore. Just like with any surgery, Dr. John Moore along with our staff encourage all of our patients to make a conscious effort to take part in the preparatory steps of the orthopedic surgical process— this will not only help the surgery go smoother, but it will also help with your recovery as well.

Register for HealthLoop

If you haven’t already, we encourage our patients to participate in our Healthloop electronic service that allows our staff to stay connected with you by using either your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Healthloop allows us to provide daily tasks, reminders, and guidance to help you and your family members stay on track as you prepare for surgery. Additionally, it also helps you communicate with Dr. John Moore and staff if you have any medical questions or concerns— day or night.

Get Your Walker and Bedside Commode

Don’t wait until the last minute to make sure that your walker and bedside commode is scheduled to be delivered by the time you come home from the hospital. By having these items in place for when you get home, you can ensure that you have a safe, speedy, and hopefully faster recovery. If you need help ordering these items, contact Michelle, and she can help you.

Schedule Your Mandatory Pre-Operative Appointment

As the name suggests, this appointment is mandatory for all patients to attend. During this two-hour long appointment with Michelle Moore, we will perform x-rays, an EKG, labs, and a preoperative evaluation. Additionally, make sure that you bring all of your current medications with you so that we can make sure that they won’t cause any complications during or after surgery.

Getting ready for your orthopedic surgery is one of the most important steps in the process. If you would like to learn more about your pre-operative requirements, contact Dr. John Moore today to schedule a consultation.

Osteoarthritis Pinehurst, NC

3 Myths About Osteoarthritis

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Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is caused when the joint cartilage breaks down— leaving patients in pain and discomfort. Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that nearly 50% of adults are estimated to get osteoarthritis at one point or another in their lifetime, there are a few things that you can do to prevent it altogether. To help you feel more informed about this condition, let’s take a closer look at some myths.

It’s Caused By Cracking Your Knuckles

If you are a frequent knuckle cracker, you may experience some sore, tender joints sometimes. However, unlike common myth, knuckle cracking does not cause arthritis. Even though knuckle cracking isn’t a cause for arthritis, however, it’s still not good for your joints.

Exercise Makes It Worse

Exercise is good for your heart, lungs, and yes, you guessed it, even your joints. Even though you aren’t going to want to become a marathon runner if you have osteoarthritis, you should still be getting regular exercise. Specifically, low impact exercise can help ease your arthritis pain.

It Will Go Away On Its Own

Your acne may ease up on its own and that cold will more than likely go away without you ever having to visit your physician, but one thing is for certain: if you have osteoarthritis, you should seek the help of a professional like Dr. John Moore. With the proper diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment, Dr. John Moore can help you alleviate your osteoarthritis symptoms and get back on the road toward a more comfortable life.

Sore and aching joints are just two of the symptoms of osteoarthritis. If you think you may have this condition or if you want to learn more about treatment options, contact our Pinehurst office today!

Knee and Hip Replacement Surgery Pinehurst NC

FAQ’s About Knee and Hip Replacement Surgery

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Going into a knee or hip replacement surgery can make patients feel like they’re walking into a spook alley— completely unaware and unsure of what to expect behind every corner. However, Dr. John Moore wants all of his patients to feel confident and informed before they go into surgery which is why we have created this brief list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Will I go Home After Surgery?

90% of Dr. John Moore’s patients are sent home rather than to a rehab facility after surgery. If you are in a nursing facility before surgery, however, you will be sent back to the same place.

Is Physical Therapy Required After Surgery?

Yes. Our staff will arrange for a physical therapist to come to your home to help you with some strengthening and other exercises. After a few sessions, you should be able to practice these exercises on your own without the assistance of a PT.

How Long Will I Be At the Hospital For?

Because knee and hip replacement surgeries are inpatient surgeries, they will require you to spend an average of two nights in the hospital. Some patients will need an additional night stay depending on a few factors.

Will I Need Special Equipment While In Recovery?

Dr. John Moore and his staff will arrange for the delivery and setup of special equipment required for recovery. For instance, patients will need a walker and an elevated toilet seat with handles. Additional equipment may be necessary depending on the type of surgery you had.

If at any time during or before your surgery you have questions or concerns, our staff is here to answer your questions.

Schedule your surgical consultation at our Pinehurst office today!

Hip Replacement Surgery Pinehurst, NC

Pedal to the Metal: 3 Reasons to Avoid Driving After Hip Replacement Surgery

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Hip Replacement SurgeryUndergoing any surgery, especially hip replacement surgery, is physically and emotionally taxing on any individual. As one of the most important aspects of this type of surgery, however, it’s important that you avoid doing certain things like driving while in recovery. Although it may be hard to rely on others for rides to and from work, home, or the grocery store, abstaining from driving is important for several reasons.

You May Be On Narcotics

One of the biggest considerations to make before getting behind the wheel while you’re in recovery is narcotic use. Although narcotics can be safe to use for a brief amount of time to ease your pain and discomfort, they will impair your judgment and make you a liability while on the road.

You May Not Have Strength

Physical therapy is the best way to gain your strength back after having a hip replacement, but it takes some time to get results. Right after surgery and for the first several weeks afterward, you may not have the strength needed to do things like push on the brake and gas pedals— which makes it impossible to drive. After a combination of physical therapy and at-home exercises, you should start to gain back your strength and hopefully be able to drive before you know it.

You May Not Have Your Reflexes Back

One of the best things they teach when you’re 16 and in Driver’s Ed. is defensive driving, aka acting on your reflexes. However, after you have hip replacement surgery, your reflexes won’t be quite as reactive as they once were which makes you a danger on the road. During physical therapy, you will work on strengthening your new hip joint so that your reflexes are razor sharp again. As soon as you get your reflexes back, you may get the approval to start driving again.

Before you get back behind the wheel, it’s important that you are off narcotics, and that you have your strength and reflexes back.

Schedule your appointment with Dr. John Moore today to learn more about hip replacement surgery.

knee replacement surgery Pinehurst NC

Nurture Your Knees: 2 Culprits of Knee Replacement Surgery

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knee replacement surgery Pinehurst NC Replacing your windshield wipers and replacing your knees are two very common, but very different things. As the most common joint replacement surgery, knee replacement involves replacing your knee joints with artificial ones. Most commonly caused by arthritis or other joint problems, a knee replacement surgery can help restore your range of motion and ability move around once again. This article will discuss common causes of knee replacement surgeries. Read on to learn more.

Arthritis

There are three types of arthritis that can result in you having to get knee replacement surgery: post-traumatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Depending on how severe your arthritis is and how your overall health is, will help Dr. John Moore decide if a knee replacement surgery is a feasible option for you.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

  • This type of arthritis is typically caused by injury that occurred earlier in life. If left untreated, these injuries can cause inflammation and irritation of the ligaments which can later turn into post-traumatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

  • This form of arthritis is caused by a loss of cartilage around the bones which causes the joints to rub together and wear down.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • This form of arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the membrane that lines the knee joint and breaks it down.

Knee Deformities

Knee deformities that require a knee replacement are a bit rarer. However, they are still possible. For instance, individuals who have bow legs or knocked knees may need a knee replacement later in life if too much pressure is placed on their knee joints. Traditionally, we like our patients with knee deformities to try physical therapy first and then we can move onto surgery if we decide it is still needed.

Although knee replacements are a common surgery, they are not for everyone. If you would like to learn more about knee replacement surgery or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. John Moore’s office today!

hip replacement surgery Pinehurst NC

3 Myths About Hip Replacement Surgery Debunked

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hip replacement surgery Pinehurst, NCYou may know how to throw a little hip into it on the dance floor, and you may even consider yourself to be “hip” characteristically, but having a bad hip, is a whole other deal. If you have a broken hip, a hip with bad ligaments, or one that simply needs to be repaired, then Dr. John Moore may recommend that you get hip replacement surgery. To help you better understand this surgery, we have created a brief article debunking three common myths. Read on to learn more.

Myth #1: They’re Only For Old People

Wearing dentures, using a cane, and having hip replacement surgery may be common characteristics that accompany old age, but that doesn’t mean they only inflict the old. In fact, patients of all ages can have to get a hip surgery done to deal due to things like arthritis or a sports related injury.

Myth #2: It Won’t Feel Natural

Having anything foreign in your body may sound a bit frightening, but it doesn’t have to be that way. One myth about hip replacements is that they won’t feel natural. However, with the advancements of technology and with plenty of healing time, your hip replacement should feel just as natural as your regular hip— but without the discomfort.

Myth #3: You Won’t Be Able to Walk for Weeks After Surgery

Recovery from any surgery— including hip replacement surgery— can be tough and aggressive. However, if you have fallen for the myth that you won’t be able to walk for weeks after surgery, that is so false. In fact, we encourage our patients to get up and walk around just a few hours after surgery— this will help your hip heal properly and will prevent things like scar tissue from building up.

Having hip replacement surgery can seem like a bigger deal than it is. With the right care from Dr. John Moore, you should be able to enjoy your new hip in just a matter of weeks. To learn more about hip replacement surgery or schedule an appointment, contact Dr. John Moore’s office today!

Joint Replacement

Looking for a Joint Supplement? A Few Things to Know

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Joint ReplacementThere are many things that you can do for your joint health— especially as you age or put more strain on your body. Whether you have started to realize that your joints are stiffer than they used to be or if you just want to take preventative measures in ensuring that you don’t get arthritis further on down the line, adding a nutritional supplement to your diet can do wonders. But before you start taking a supplement, it’s important to know a few things about it. From dietary supplements to knowing what to put in your body, this article will help you shop for the right supplement for you and your lifestyle. Read on to learn more.

Understanding Dietary Supplements

When you go down the vitamin and supplement aisle at your local grocery store, you may be overwhelmed by the different options you have. One of the most popular things that patients like to consume on a daily basis is a dietary supplement. Containing vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and botanicals, dietary supplements are designed to be taken in addition to your regular food and not in place of it.

  • S-adenosylmethionine

As a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory supplement, s-adenosylmethionine can help treat osteoarthritis and even fibromyalgia. By stimulating cartilage growth and serotonin levels, s-adenosylmethionine can make your joints feel better and give you that relief your body has been craving.

  • Curcumin (Curcuma longa)

Curcumin is the same ingredient that is found in turmeric and is popular amongst arthritis patients for its ability to give patients long-term pain relief and improvement with arthritis pain. Plus, if you’re not a big fan of consuming turmeric on a daily basis, then finding a supplement with curcumin in it should do the trick.

Shopping for a joint supplement can be beyond overwhelming. However, by understanding what a dietary supplement is and a few ingredients to look for to promote joint health, you should be able to narrow down your options. To learn more about joint supplements or your joint health in general, contact Dr. John Moore’s office today!

Joint Replacement Pinehurst NC

Ice Bath Vs. Ice Pack: How to Get Icy Cold Joint Relief

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Joint Replacement Pinehurst NCWhen you have sore joints or muscles, there are a few things that you can do to get rid of inflammation and ease the pain including taking an over the counter medication like ibuprofen, resting, and icing. As an all-natural way to combat pain and inflammation, however, icing is one of the best things that Dr. John Moore encourages all of his patients to do after working out, having surgery, and getting injured. When it comes to icing, you have two options: having an ice bath or using an ice pack. So, what is the best option and which one will give you the fastest joint relief? Read on to learn more.

Ice Bath

If you have a knee injury, shin splints, or even an ankle injury, we encourage our patients to sit in an ice bath. By encompassing your legs, knees, and ankles, an ice bath is a fast way to combat inflammation and pain. To take an ice bath, fill your bathtub with about four inches of really cold water and then add about a bucket full of ice. Then, slowly submerge either the lower part of your body or just your ankles. Try to sit in there for as long as you can stand it— hopefully more than one second. Repeat about two to three times.

Ice Pack

If you just have a small injury or joint issues around an area of your body like your wrist, then you can just use a small ice pack. When using an ice pack, try to use a gel one so that it can conform to your injury. The more the ice pack covers, the better it will be at getting rid of the inflammation on your joints.

Icing your joints and muscles is one of the best things you can do for your body. Whether you choose to take an ice bath or use an ice pack, you will notice a significant decrease in pain and inflammation. To learn more about what you can do for your joint and muscle health, contact Dr. John Moore today and schedule an appointment.

hip surgery | Pinehurst |

37 Years of Dedication

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Dr Moore’s nurse Debbie is retiring after 37 years of dedication to Pinehurst Surgical Clinic.  Debbie has given so much to Dr Moore’s clinic, she has been team mom and always has great adventure stories.  We are so happy to have been apart of her journey and wish her much happiness as she spends time with her husband, children, and grandchildren in her retirement.