the orthopedic & spine institute - stamford health

StamfordHospital.org

S P R I N G 2014

Spine Care that Centers on the PatientMotion Analysis...Movement in Sports, in the Arts and in LifeOptimizing Performance for Athletes and Artists of All AgesYou Are What You Eat: Sports Nutrition Concussion Center Addresses Needs of Area Athletes and TeamsSports Medicine Program Just for Women

The Orthopedic & Spine InstituteProviding Expert Orthopedic Care Across the Continuum from Surgery to Recovery to Wellness

2 StamfordHospital.org

A Message from Our President and CEO

Dear Friend,

Stamford Hospital is an advanced and comprehensive center

of care for patients with injuries and conditions affecting their

bones, joints and muscles. Clinicians at our Orthopedic & Spine

Institute have trained at some of the top institutions in the

country, and achieve outstanding outcomes on a regular basis.

Most importantly, their combined expertise offers care across the

continuum, from injury prevention and wellness to treatment,

surgery and recovery. All of this is with the goal to help patients

maintain their activity and optimize performance whenever and

wherever possible.

I am pleased to share with you this issue of Healthline that

underscores our excellence in musculoskeletal care. Specifically,

on the pages that follow, you will learn more about:

• The expertise of our team in providing comprehensive spine

care and total joint replacement

• Some of our newest programs, which focus on analyzing

movement, developing strategies for proper nutrition,

optimizing performance and providing education, diagnostics

and treatment for concussions

• Our quality outcomes, as highlighted by some very special

patient success stories

• The latest developments regarding construction of the new

Stamford Hospital

As you will see reflected in these stories, our Orthopedic & Spine

Institute has earned a reputation for its clinical expertise, ongoing

program development and high level of patient-centered care.

I am exceedingly proud to be part of an institution that provides

such a superb level of quality care to our community.

Brian G. Grissler

President and CEO

Contents

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13

Optimizing Performance for Athletes and Artists of All Ages

Treating Conditions of the Hand, Wrist and Elbow“Better than Ever” After ACL Surgery

Health, Wellness & Sports Expo at Chelsea Piers CTUpdate on the New Stamford Hospital

Spine Care That Centers on the Patient

Specializing in Total Joint Replacement

You Are What You Eat: Sports Nutrition

Excellence in Musculoskeletal Care

Motion Analysis...Movement in Sports, in the Arts and in Life

A Snapshot of Two Young Artists (and Athletes)

Concussion Center Addresses Needs of Area Athletes and Teams

Spine Surgery: One Young Patient’s Story

Sports Medicine Program Just for Women

1healthline

From the Director of the Orthopedic & Spine Institute This latest issue of Healthline highlights the many ways that Stamford Hospital’s Orthopedic & Spine Institute benefits our community. As the director of this service line, I am proud of our quality and achievements, as well as the extraordinary work of our physicians and staff in delivering patient-centered care and strong outcomes.

On the pages that follow, you will learn more about some key features of our program:

• The ongoing ability to maintain such high standards of excellence has resulted in the three-time recertification of our total joint replacement and spine programs by the Joint Commission, most recently this past year

• Chelsea Piers Connecticut (CPCT) has become a hub for the Orthopedic & Spine Institute, where many of our physicians see patients in consultation

• Our developing relationship with CPCT has given us the opportunity to further expand our specialty in sports medicine, not just as it relates to surgery, but in providing a comprehensive menu of sports wellness services

Our mission also includes community outreach at various events throughout the year. We maintain a robust Speakers Bureau, which features our physicians and provides educational events for the lay and professional healthcare community in conjunction with CPCT. An example of this is our upcoming sports symposium for athletic trainers and physical therapists in May. The event will feature some of our physicians, along with a keynote address to highlight the emergent treatment of athletes.

We cordially invite you to learn more about our sports wellness and orthopedic services. Please come and visit us at CPCT or at the Stamford Hospital Fairfield County Women’s Expo this April.

Excellence in Musculoskeletal Care Stamford Hospital offers comprehensive orthopedic and spine surgery services that prevent and treat injuries and conditions affecting bones, joints and muscles. As a Center of Excellence, the Hospital:

• Provides the highest level of clinical care

• Provides the patient’s entire continuum of care, including assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention

• Promotes the health and well-being of our patients, using the latest technology

• Provides academic excellence through an affiliation with the New York Medical College Orthopedic Surgery Residency program

The Hospital’s orthopedic surgeons have received fellowship training from some of the finest institutions in the country and as such can treat a wide range of conditions from the most common to the most complex. The goal of the Orthopedic & Spine Institute is to partner with patients to maintain and enhance their level of activity through wellness services, with the ultimate goal to prevent injury. In the event of injury, we are committed to helping them return to their maximum performance as quickly and safely as possible.

With a strong commitment to the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries, the Hospital provides a dedicated inpatient orthopedic unit, which also includes a gym for convenient access to physical and occupational therapy. The nursing staff on this unit has attained specialized orthopedic training to address the unique needs of our patients.

Vicki L. Hoffman Director, Orthopedic & Spine Institute


Spine Care That Centers on the PatientStamford Hospital’s Spine Center embodies experts in total spine care, with a dedicated team of orthopedic spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, radiologists, anesthesiologists, nurses, physical therapists, pain management specialists and physiatrists, who are experienced in treating the most challenging spinal conditions.

“We perform more highly specialized pediatric and adult spine surgery than any other hospital in the region, including complex scoliosis corrections in patients of all ages,” said Rudolph Taddonio, MD, Director of Orthopedic Surgery. “People come to us from across the tri-state region and beyond, because they know we specialize in very complex scoliosis surgery and offer a level of patient-centered care second to none.”

The most common conditions seen by our spine surgeons include lower back or neck pain. The majority of these can be treated with physical therapy and/or pain management. In some cases, the pain radiates to the patient’s arm or leg, caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis (with inflammation and/or compression of the nerves), and the patient may ultimately require surgery, particularly if the condition is life-altering or symptoms are worsening.

“We devote focused time and attention with surgical patients, explaining our coordinated approach to pre-operative management, the surgical procedure and the peri-operative care plan,” Dr. Taddonio added. “We perform all the necessary pre-op testing, and encourage patients to attend a spine class offered at the Tully Health Center, led by our dedicated Clinical Care Coordinator, who prepares them for their hospitalization

and eventual discharge to home. Many patients who have been treated by other providers and experienced a rushed, impersonal consultation, are impressed with our compassionate service commitment to spend as much time with them as necessary.”

For some procedures that require a minimally invasive approach, patients can be released the same day. For more complex conditions, such as scoliosis, in addition to routine preoperative testing and preparation, a CAT scan is performed and the images downloaded to an operating room computer for precise and safe image-guided navigation of spinal implant insertion (screws and rods). Our team makes pain management a priority and, in collaboration with occupational and physical therapy, early mobilization results in a short hospital stay. These combined rehabilitative services enhance and speed recovery to an optimal level of function.

Given that 50% to 60% of his practice is pediatric surgery, Dr. Taddonio and his partner, Krishn Sharma, MD, take a very personalized patient and family-centered approach. For non-surgical patients with scoliosis, a brace fitter joins the team in the office and sees patients at the same time as their visit with the doctor, ensuring maximum convenience and coordinated care for parents and their children.

With over 40 years of combined experience,

our spinal team at the Orthopedic &

Spine Institute are truly experts in the field.

Members of the Orthopedic & Spine Institute physician team, lead by Rudolph Taddonio, MD, Director of Orthopedic Surgery. Back row: H. Kavookjian, MD, T. Blaine, MD, J. Dowdle, MD, C. VanBeek, MD, A. Weiner, MD, P. Hughes, MD; Front row: E. Feliciano, MD, D. Zelazny, MD, R. Taddonio, MD, C. Tifford, MD, K. Sharma, MD; Not pictured: A. Brodsky, MD, J. Brooks, MD, R. Cavallo, MD, J. D’Amico, MD, F. Difazio, MD, A. Gitelman, MD, A. Haas, MD, G. McGinniss, MD, K. Plancher, MD, W. Schmidt, MD, M. Silver, MD, A. Troy, MD. 3healthline

Brigette Suerig was in the fifth grade, just about to turn 10, when she was diagnosed with scoliosis during a routine physical. A specialist in New Jersey, where she and her family reside, found a “c” curve of 12 degrees and recommended that she wear a brace for 20 hours a day.

To get a second opinion, her father, Chris, consulted his father, a 35-year ER physician at Greenwich Hospital, who recommended that they come to Stamford for a consultation. “We took her to a local back doctor, who did not practice pediatrics. He in turn referred us to Dr. Rudolph Taddonio (Stamford Hospital’s Director of Orthopedic Surgery),” Chris said.

While Dr. Taddonio had similar findings, instead of bracing, since the curve was small, he recommended that she follow up every four months – a process the Suerigs followed for three years. During this time, Brigette actively played competitive sports, including softball and field hockey. Then, in the summer before ninth grade, in the span of four months the curve jumped from 20 degrees to 34 degrees. It was at that point that Dr. Taddonio recommended bracing for 16 hours a day. According to Chris, the brace was made out of plastic and shaped like a corset but extended up to her neck on the back.

“I didn’t have to wear the brace to school, thank goodness, but it felt weird going over to other kids’ houses, and it was pretty uncomfortable, especially for the first few months,” Brigette said.

When her curve progressed further to 43 degrees, Dr. Taddonio recommended surgery, where he and Dr. Krishn Sharma would place two rods and 20 screws in her back. “I kind of figured I’d eventually need surgery,” she said. “I was really only nervous the

Spine Surgery: One Young Patient’s Story night before and then the next day as I was leaving my parents and going into the OR. But everyone just kept reassuring me that everything was going to be fine, and I chose to believe that it would.”

Dr. Taddonio recalls how impressed he was by Brigette’s attitude. “After our consultation about the surgery, she was very accepting of it, as was her family. She also had great family support, which I have found is especially important when young people have spine surgery.”

“Brigette’s recovery took six months. The first month she missed school and was uncomfortable, but we got her moving a bit more each day and she made ongoing progress,” her father said. “She handled the entire process with great grace and dignity. I was extremely proud of her.”

Today, a year after her surgery, Brigette is doing very well. Her mobility is a bit limited, but she enjoys being active and keeps herself in good physical condition.

“It was definitely a difficult experience, but I stayed positive and motivated, and that made it easier to get through. I’d say the same thing to anyone else facing scoliosis surgery – stay positive and determined, and you’ll be in recovery before you know it!”


Post-opBrigette Suerig is happy to be back at bat!


Pre-op

Rudolph Taddonio, MD Director, Orthopedic Surgery

Stamford Hospital’s Total Joint Replacement program provides a full range of coordinated, multidisciplinary orthopedic care. The Hospital has many orthopedic surgeons on staff who specialize in joint replacement procedures.

According to Orthopedic Surgeon Peter Hughes, MD, the most common hip and knee conditions he sees are caused by arthritis. The joint replacement surgeons also perform joint replacement surgery for congenital deformities or other complex revision surgery.

“While patients have traditionally been older, now that this type of surgery has more longevity, we are seeing even younger patients,” Dr. Hughes said. “Joint replacement is recognized as one of the most successful orthopedic surgeries performed each year, and the replacements typically last for 20 years or more for 80% of recipients.”

At an initial visit, Dr. Hughes examines the patient, and takes a complete history and an X-ray of the joint in question. “Usually an X-ray is all we need to tell us how bad the condition is and what we need to do to fix it.”

Determining the best course of treatment depends on two factors – the general medical health of the patient and how active the patient wants to be in the future. Ultimately, about 80% of the patients he sees qualify for surgery, and the Hospital’s program is designed to support patients in every way with the help of a dedicated Clinical Nurse Coordinator. Her role is to educate patients about what to expect, beginning with a comprehensive pre-operative consultation that outlines what will happen before, during and after surgery.

In addition to fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and skilled nurses, the surgical team includes operating room staff who are dedicated to orthopedic surgery and top-notch anesthesiologists who utilize regional blocks to help mitigate the side effects of traditional anesthesia and minimize pain medication required post-surgery.

Specializing in Total Joint Replacement

“Joint replacement is recognized as one of

the most successful orthopedic surgeries performed each year,

and the replacements typically last for 20 years or more

for 80% of recipients.”

Recovery takes place in the Hospital’s dedicated orthopedic surgery unit, where specialty nurses are trained to focus on specific parameters important for joint replacement patients, including post-operative pain management and rehabilitation. Occupational and physical therapy are also provided on-site to mobilize the patient as soon as possible following surgery. Once the patient is discharged from the Hospital, post-operative therapy can be performed at the Tully Health Center. When patients are ready to resume their regular fitness routines, the medically supervised staff at the Health & Fitness Institute is also available to provide support and expert advice following joint replacement.

“Everyone knows someone who has had a joint replaced, and most have had a good experience with it,” added Dr. Hughes. “Nonetheless, patients are most concerned about whether they will be able to get up and walk around as everyone else has said they will following surgery. In the end, if they have one complaint, it’s that they should have done it sooner!”

5healthline 5healthline

Motion Analysis...Movement in Sports, in the Arts and in Life One of the newest and most innovative programs offered by the Orthopedic & Spine Institute, Motion Analysis provides patients with motion and biomechanical analysis for specific movement. The dual assessment utilizes multiple cameras and leading-edge optical technologies, as well as a powerful software tool to analyze any type of movement with a dynamic, three-dimensional avatar that can be viewed at any angle and at any speed. The reports generated

can be used by a practitioner, coach or athletic trainer, who can recommend programs that may prevent injury, enhance movement and/or improve sports performance. Clients can be self-referred or referred by a physician.

“Our 3-D Motion Analysis Lab has the capability to provide precise data regarding the movements performed by the client,” said Motion Analysis Coordinator Rebecca Petersen, MS, ATC. “After capturing the client’s motion, the data is analyzed onsite,

Rebecca Petersen, a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC®) for over 15 years, received a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science from Old Dominion University and a Master of Science degree in athletic training and sports sciences from Long Island University (LIU). Prior to joining the Orthopedic & Spine Institute, she spent 11 years as Assistant Professor, Clinical Coordinator for Athletic Training Education Program at LIU. She has also worked as an Assistant Athletic Trainer for the New York Liberty and Vassar College.

and I can provide recommendations to prevent injury, improve performance, assist with rehabilitation and so forth.”

As described below, the program utilizes the word PERFORM to represent some of the possible captures that can be recorded and analyzed.

• Injury Prevention, such as landing mechanics and lifting techniques

• Performance Enhancement for athletes and performing artists• Range of Motion at any joint• Functional Screenings including squats, lunges and shoulder

mobility• Occupational Health Screenings for various employment settings• Research to be conducted with on-site physicians, off-site

researchers, etc.• Motion Analysis...Movement in Sports, in the Arts and in LifeAccording to Petersen, this type of biomechanics technology has primarily existed in an academic setting. “It is unique to have this technology available as part of a hospital program. This is a valuable resource that combines our sports medicine and orthopedic expertise to directly benefit the patients we serve,” she said.

We offer advanced orthopedic care at Chelsea Piers CT, staffed by a multidisciplinary team of fellowship-trained physicians, and other allied health professionals. Services include:

• Orthopedic & Joint Care

• Motion Analysis

• Pain Management

• Radiology

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDIC CARE AT CHELSEA PIERS CT

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 203.276.4123

• Integrative Medicine

• Sports Nutrition

• Concussion Services

• Athletes & the Arts program


Optimizing Performance for Athletes and Artists of All Ages Stamford Hospital’s Orthopedic & Spine Institute and Center for Integrative Medicine & Wellness have joined their expertise to offer a new program designed to optimize performance in competitive sports and the performing arts. Athletes and the Arts is a national program developed by the American College of Sports Medicine that creates opportunities for both athletes and performing artists to benefit from established research, training and education.

The program is led by Marc Brodsky, MD, Medical Director of the Center for Integrative Medicine & Wellness, who has had an ongoing interest in studying the performance-related conditions of athletes and performing artists. His background includes research on Blues musicians in Chicago and Kabuki actors in Japan, as well as collaboration with MusiCares of the Recording Academy, The Actors Fund and Venice Family Clinic to form a free clinic for underinsured professional entertainers.

“Integrative medicine centers on pain relief, nutrition science and mind-body stress reduction. So we have oriented this model to treat and prevent muscle problems, make nutrition recommendations and use the power of suggestion to help people overcome anxieties that may hinder performance during high-

pressure sports or arts performance situations,” said Dr. Brodsky. “The goal of the program is to prevent injuries and optimize performance and a sense of wellness in school-aged and adult athletes and performing artists.”

Since the program started in April 2013, it has generated nearly 200 patient visits, with about 80% athletes and 20% artists. Approximately 90% of patients report a pain issue, most commonly headache, and neck and upper back, upper extremity, lower back and knee pain.

A physical exam and thorough medical history are part of the

initial patient evaluation. According to Dr. Brodsky, a hands-on assessment can

help to identify muscle knots, and often these pressure points are

under-recognized contributors to pain and stress-related symptoms.

Treatment can include lifestyle coaching with tips for proper diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, anger management and acupressure lessons. Ergonomics and technique might also be addressed with recommendations for non-narcotic medication and therapeutic procedures such as trigger point injections and acupuncture, if necessary.

“Patients are generally seen once a week for four weeks,” added Dr. Brodsky. “Then the goal is to spread out the appointments as they improve and incorporate self-care lifestyle behaviors to release muscle tension and mind-body stress reduction techniques.”

Athletes and the Arts is offered at the Orthopedic & Spine Institute at Chelsea Piers Connecticut. The program draws on resources throughout Stamford Hospital, as well as an extensive network of community practitioners, both conventional and complementary.

7healthlineMarc Brodsky, MD, Medical Director,

Center for Integrative Medicine & Wellness

A Snapshot of Two Young Artists (and Athletes)

IL AN

Michael Franceski in the Stamford Young Artists Philharmonic.

MICHAEL

Michael is a 12-year-old violist and golfer who suffered from right-sided shoulder pain and left-sided neck pain. As part of his history and physical exam, the violist demonstrated how one of his teachers had recently instructed him to change his technique in order to improve his playing. With acupressure instruction, the violist had immediate relief of his neck pain and restored range of motion. A prescribed stretching routine, along with recommendations to take more frequent breaks during practice, helped to reduce his right shoulder overuse symptoms. Michael continues to thrive and was selected to the Youth Orchestra of the Stamford Symphony.

Ilan Mahmoudov back on the ice.

Ilan is a 10-year-old hockey player and French horn player who incurred a concussion and was initially evaluated by a pediatric neurologist. He had not been to school in a month when his mother took him to the Center for Integrative Medicine & Wellness. At the initial visit, he was wearing sound-proof headphones because of his sensitivity to sound, and the physical exam demonstrated profound trigger points, especially in his neck and shoulder area. Within one week of learning acupressure, self-massage and a progressive muscle relaxation stress reduction technique at the Center, Ilan gradually returned to school and extra-curricular activities.


You Are What You Eat: Sports Nutrition

Gavin Pritchard earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and completed studies in nutrition at New York University and a year-long internship at Yale-New Haven Hospital. He has advanced training in health supportive cooking from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. A Certified Diabetes Educator, Pritchard has advanced certification as a health and fitness instructor from the American College of Sports Medicine.

Nutrition is a vital component of good health and wellness for everyone. However, physically active individuals and athletes can have increased nutritional needs due to the greater physical demand they place on their bodies. Whether personal goals involve optimizing sports enjoyment and performance, or simply establishing healthy eating patterns to enhance lifelong health and fitness, active individuals of all ages can benefit from focused nutrition guidance.

The Sports Nutrition program at the Orthopedic & Spine Institute at Chelsea Piers Connecticut is designed to support the nutritional needs of each active individual by providing safe, effective and personalized nutrition strategies. Gavin Pritchard, RD, CDE, CD-N, is the primary registered dietitian providing these custom-tailored sports nutrition services. Pritchard, a seasoned nutritionist and chef, effectively guides individuals toward their goals with personalized approaches to nutrition planning, menu creation and shopping, and improving health-supportive cooking skills.

“If you’re active, you’re an athlete,” said Pritchard. “Our goal is to provide the highest quality of sports nutrition services to everyone who seeks them – elite athletes, college athletes, high school athletes, weekend warriors and active people of all ages and abilities.”

“I love this job because food is a way to connect with people. In getting to know them, I try to capture their personal flavor preferences and challenges, and then my hope is to get them engaged in the process to make cooking more manageable and successful for them.”

Well athletes might seek Sports Nutrition services to maximize their sports performance. They may come with questions about developing a personal hydration plan; establishing plans for pre-season, in-season and post-season nutrition; eating on the road; eating before, during and after exercise; and/or planning, shopping and cooking for the athlete. According to Pritchard, some athletes who have a pre-existing medical condition may require more advanced nutrition guidance. Either way, even paying small attention to nutrition details can have a big impact on sports enjoyment and performance.

“This is not a one size fits all service,” added Pritchard. “Listening to and understanding an individual’s concerns, questions and goals help us develop a personalized plan with evidence-based recommendations to provide that person with the best possible support.”

9healthline

Corinne VanBeek, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon

Katherine Takayasu, MD Center for Integrative Medicine & Wellness

Sports Medicine Program Just for Women As part of its effort to provide patient-centered care, Stamford Hospital is launching a Women’s Sports Medicine program designed to address the needs of women of all age groups and any activity level. The program brings together the Hospital’s expertise in orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, integrative techniques, motion analysis, nutrition and physical therapy.

“Women can be evaluated for an injury or may come in looking for ways to keep their bodies in tune to prevent injury,” said Corinne VanBeek, MD, orthopedic surgeon. “The program is designed to be all-encompassing, tapping into the expertise of a multidisciplinary team to maximize wellness. All of the sub-specialists are located under one roof (at Chelsea Piers Connecticut) for patient convenience.”

Katherine Takayasu, MD, specializes in integrative techniques and brings a more holistic approach to women’s wellness. “I help patients work on finding space in their lives to reduce stress and focus on being present. I have found that taking a holistic approach is especially helpful for higher-performing athletes and artists who strive to be their best.”

Patients can come in for any reason at any point – be it to evaluate an orthopedic injury, have a consultation with a nutritionist or have a stress-reduction training session. The network is set up to make the referral process from one to the other as easy as possible for patients.

“We are excited to offer a program that particularly

addresses women,” added Dr. VanBeek.

“And all of us are here in the true sports sense –

to coach and guide them through injury prevention

and treatment, from start to finish.”


“Since my surgery I’ve lost 35 pounds

and am more active than ever.

I also have a better sense of balance

and love to walk up and down the stairs

– no matter how many times I have

to do it.”

When a person experiences pain in his or her hand, wrist or elbow, everyday tasks like opening a jar, typing at a desk or combing one’s hair can be very difficult. Stamford Hospital’s Orthopedic & Spine Institute includes physicians who specialize in conditions of these areas, which are often impacted by overuse injuries. In fact, the most common types of hand injuries include carpal tunnel, trigger fingers, arthritis and fractures.

According to Orthopedic Surgeon Jack Dowdle, MD, his patients have included babies with congenital hand deformities, teens with fractures, adults with carpal tunnel and older adults with arthritis.

After taking the patient’s history, conducting a thorough exam and doing any initial diagnostic testing, physicians can make a recommendation for treatment. In the vast majority of common cases, a non-surgical approach is tried first, and can incorporate anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and/or cortisone injections to see if the patient’s condition improves.

Treating Conditions of the Hand, Wrist and Elbow

It has been a year since Barbara Simkins had anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery. The 62-year-old co-owner of the green ROCKS inn in Ridgefield was playing Frisbee on the front lawn with her dog, Maxi, when Maxi tackled her from behind and she heard a “pop” in her knee. “I never felt such pain in all my life,” she said. “And there I was, just lying there as guests were coming up to the door to check in – it was embarrassing as well.”

After a consult with Stamford Hospital Orthopedic Surgeon Edward Feliciano, MD, she decided to have surgery in order to maintain her very active lifestyle. In addition to running the inn with her partner and playing with her dog, Barbara also enjoys race walking and swimming on a regular basis.

“My biggest concerns were would I ever fully heal and how difficult would the post-op recovery be,” she said. While she fell in September 2012, she waited until the holidays were over to have her surgery. In the meantime, she went to physical therapy to maintain a good level of monitored activity leading up to the surgery, which helped tremendously in her recovery.

According to Barbara, months of post-operative physical therapy not only helped her recover but also prompted her to join a gym and increase her level of activity. “Since my surgery I’ve lost 35 pounds and am more active than ever. I also have a better sense of balance and love to walk up and down the stairs – no matter how many times I have to do it.

“I feel like I have less fear of falling, though I’m definitely more careful now when I’m playing with Maxi!”

“Better Than Ever” After ACL Surgery

“Patients often hesitate to come for an evaluation because they think they will automatically need surgery,” said Dr. Dowdle. “Though we are surgeons by profession, we like to try a non-operative approach first as a general rule unless the condition dictates otherwise. If those treatment options don’t work, then we proceed to surgery.”

Surgery alone isn’t a cure. Patients require months of rehabilitation afterwards in order to achieve optimal recovery. The goal is always to help patients return to their regular activity or sport and achieve their goals as best as possible.

11healthline

Jack Dowdle, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

11healthline

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year, U.S. emergency departments treat an estimated 173,285 sports- and recreation-related traumatic brain injuries (TBI), including concussions, among children and adolescents. The majority of concussions (80%-90%) recover within approximately 10 days; however, it can take longer for young people, and the potential for serious injury is always present.

A concussion is a type of TBI caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the body or head that causes the brain to make impact with the skull. A person does not need to be knocked unconscious to have a concussion, and sometimes symptoms don’t show up until days after the original trauma. These symptoms can include: balance problems, amnesia, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, headache, light sensitivity, blurred vision, slurred speech and dizziness.

Part of the Orthopedic & Spine Institute’s Sports Medicine program, the new Concussion Center is designed to provide community education, baseline testing, diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for this widespread condition. The program draws on the Hospital’s expertise in orthopedics, sports medicine, integrative medicine and neuroscience to address the needs of both adult and pediatric patients.

“Our partnership with Chelsea Piers Connecticut provides a unique environment that has really allowed the Orthopedic & Spine Institute to enhance its Sports Medicine programs,” said Vicki Hoffman, Service Line Director for Orthopedic & Spine Institute. “With the growing media attention about the impact of concussions, we saw the opportunity to develop a Concussion Center that will address the needs of our athletes and sports teams across Fairfield County.”

Concussion Center Addresses Needs of Area Athletes and Teams

estimated sports- and recreation-related traumatic

brain injuries treated by U.S. emergency

departments each year.

12 StamfordHospital.org12 StamfordHospital.org

Health, Wellness & Sports Expo at Chelsea Piers CTThe Stamford Hospital Health, Wellness & Sports Expo 2014 will return to Chelsea Piers Connecticut, One Blachley Road in Stamford, on Saturday, September 20, and Sunday, September 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Now in its third year, the Expo is educational, interactive and entertaining for attendees of all ages. It features free health screenings and information, along with a wide variety of exhibitors, fitness demonstrations and more. This year’s event even includes a new Run Walk for Health and Hunger on Saturday morning.

“Visitors can take advantage

of important screenings

and gain valuable information,”

said Vicki Hoffman,

Stamford Hospital’s Orthopedic &

Spine Institute Service Line Director.

“We hope to empower families

with a new sense of commitment

to healthy living.”

Update on the New Stamford Hospital In January, Stamford Hospital completed full transfer of all utilities to its new Central Utility Plant, which is now providing power, steam and chilled and hot water to the entire facility.

This represents a major milestone in the development of the new Stamford Hospital, with the Facilities Management staff now operating the new fully automated and highly energy-efficient 33,500 BGSF (building gross square foot) plant. It also includes a number of built-in redundancies, as well as significant back-up generation power.

Shortly after opening the new plant, the steel structure of the new Hospital began to appear on the Stamford skyline.

Plans are also underway for a “Topping Off” ceremony to occur in May. This will allow administration, staff, physicians, donors, area dignitaries and community partners to sign one of the final pieces of steel for the new structure.

13healthline

30 Shelburne Road | P.O. Box 9317 | Stamford, CT 06904-9317203.276.1000StamfordHospital.org

If you no longer wish to receive promotional materials from Stamford Hospital, please visit StamfordHospital.org/unsubscribe

S TA M FO R D PL A Z A H OT E L 2701 SU M M E R S T R E E T, S TA M FO R D

A PR I L 26 -27, 2014

Join us for an event that features more than 200 exhibitors along with:

• Health Screenings

• Beauty Makeovers

• Prize Giveaways

• Live Demonstrations

• Celebrity Appearances and Much More!

Admission is $10 per person; kids 12 and under are free.

To learn more and to receive a $5 coupon, visit

StamfordHospital.org/expo.

the orthopedic & spine institute - stamford health

Documents