Nerve damage in the hand can be painful and troubling. Nerve damage varies widely in its nature, but it is possible to improve nerve damage in the hand to some extent in the majority of cases. Below, we will take a look at the basics of nerve damage in the hand.

Causes of Nerve Damage in the Hand

Nerve damage in the hand can be caused by a variety of conditions, most commonly traumatic injuries to the wrist, hand, or finger. Some possible causes of nerve damage include:

• Cuts – Cuts may occur as kitchen injuries, yard work injuries, or as a result of falls or accidents.
• Crush injuries – If the hand is crushed in a motor vehicle accident or fall, nerve damage can occur.
• Burns – Burns can cause nerve damage. The severity of the damage will depend on how much of the hand was affected by the burn and how deep into the tissue the burn extended.
• Overstretching – An injury that causes the hand to be overstretched can damage nerves.

Symptoms of Nerve Damage

The nerves in the hand and wrist are responsible for moving the hand and for transmitting sensation in the hand to the brain. Damage to the nerves can result in trouble with any of these functions. If the motor nerves are damaged, you may experience weakness in the hand, or issues such as twitching or paralysis. If sensory nerves are damaged, you may experience pain, burning, numbness, or tingling. If both types of nerves are damaged, you may experience a combination of both types of symptoms.

Treatment to Improve Nerve Damage in the Hand

Most of the time, it is not possible to completely resolve the nerve damage. However, certain treatments can improve the symptoms associated with the nerve damage, and some degree of nerve regeneration may occur over time. Common treatments include:

• Rest – Resting the hand prevents further irritation and inflammation, which can contribute to the symptoms experienced with nerve damage.
• Immobilization – Immobilizing the hand with a brace or cast can allow the underlying injury that caused the nerve damage to heal. It also enhances hand rest.
• Physical therapy – Physical therapy can help restore flexibility and function to an injured hand, and may also relieve inflammation. The degree to which function can be restored depends on the individual injury. Even when it is not possible to restore complete function, occupational therapy can help you adapt to the changes in your hand.
• Surgery – In some cases, surgery is used. Surgery is normally used to treat the underlying injury. If nerves are being pinched, surgery can relieve pressure on the nerves.

If you would like to improve nerve damage in your hand, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to hear from you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or all OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

In some cases, the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is only slightly torn, so that it stretches but is still able to provide support to the knee. A slight ACL tear still requires treatment, although treatment may be less intensive than for a severe ACL tear. Below, we will take a look at the most common slight ACL tear symptoms, as well as how this type of knee injury is usually treated.

Types of ACL Tears

ACL tears are classified as Grade I, Grade II, or Grade III. Grade I tears are slight, and constitute a stretching of the ligament, which is still able to provide support and structure to the knee. In Grade II tears, the ligament is actually torn, but is not completely severed. In a Grade III tear, the ligament is torn all the way through, so that it is in two pieces. The symptoms of a severe ACL tear can be dramatic, and the patient may be completely unable to use the knee.

Slight ACL Tear Symptoms

In contrast, slight ACL tear symptoms tend to be much less severe. Patients tend to experience symptoms like:

• Swelling in the knee
• Discomfort while walking
• Tenderness on the knee

Treatment for Slight ACL Tears

It is often effective to treat the symptoms of slight ACL tears in a non-invasive manner, especially if the patient is older or more sedentary. In contrast, more severe ACL tears almost always require surgical intervention. The following treatments can help reduce inflammation and restore functionality to the knee:

• Rest – Resting the knee for a few days can give an opportunity for inflammation to go down, easing the symptoms associated with the tear.
• Ice – Applying ice for 20-30 minutes at a time several times a day can reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Compression – Wearing a compression bandage can help support the knee, allowing it to heal.
• Elevation – If you have a lot of swelling, elevating the knee above the level of the heart, while ensuring that the knee and leg are fully supported, can help swelling go down.
• Physical therapy – Your doctor may recommend certain exercises, or refer you to a physical therapist. The exercises you learn will strengthen the muscles that support the knee, relieving symptoms. You should continue to practice these exercises even after formal physical therapy ends.
• Medication – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Aleve and Motrin can help bring down inflammation. Always follow the instructions on the label, and avoid taking any over-the-counter medication on a long-term basis unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your ACL tear. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have an orthopedic problem, it is important to visit a skilled orthopedist for diagnosis and treatment. Many patients worry that getting treatment will be too expensive, but insurance and financing options make treatment affordable for most patients. In addition, the cost of not getting treatment is typically higher than the cost of visiting Tustin, CA orthopedic surgeons.

Importance of Visiting and Orthopedist 

If you have symptoms of an orthopedic problem, it is important to visit Tustin, CA orthopedic surgeons about your condition. Feeling pain or reduced mobility is not a normal part of aging or a normal part of being an athlete, and it is important not to dismiss symptoms that could be significant. You should visit a doctor if you have pain or other symptoms that last for longer than a week, symptoms that get progressively worse, or symptoms which are severe. If you have an emergency such as a suspected broken bone, you should go to the emergency room first.

Factors Influencing Cost for Tustin CA Orthopedic Surgeons

Many factors influence the cost of getting treatment from Tustin, CA orthopedic surgeons. Some of the most influential factors include:

• The physician – Some doctors are dedicated to keeping treatment costs low for patients by minimizing their overhead costs and passing on those savings. However, it is only possible to reduce to cost of treatment to a certain level.
• Local cost of living – In areas where the cost of living is higher, it is more expensive for doctors to provide treatment, resulting in higher costs for patients.
• Market fluctuations – The cost of medications and materials can rise and fall due to unpredictable market forces.
• Whether surgery is used – Surgery is almost always more expensive to perform than non-surgical treatment, but it is necessary in some cases.
• Type of surgery used – Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery is much more affordable than conventional open surgery, because it is faster to perform and in most cases no hospital stay is required.

Managing the Cost of Treatment

Your insurance will cover the cost of visiting Tustin, CA orthopedic surgeons, so the cost of treatment will vary based on your insurance coverage. If you have a high deductible and copay and need surgery, you may face high out-of-pocket costs; other patients may pay little-to-nothing out-of-pocket.

For those patients who do face high out-of-pocket costs, financing options are available. Financing options include patient financing companies and health care credit cards, as well as more general sources of credit such as loans and traditional credit cards.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Orthopedists are responsible for treating conditions affecting the joints, bones, and muscles. Many people, especially athletes and people who are middle aged or older, develop orthopedic conditions at some point. Below, we will take a look at how and where you can find the best reviewed orthopedic doctor near Fountain Valley, CA.

Key Features of the Best Orthopedic Doctors

Choosing a doctor is a complex decision that requires you to take a variety of factors into account. Some of the most important things to consider as you read reviews and research doctors include:

• Areas of expertise – Look for a doctor who is familiar treating patients like you. If you are an athlete, your doctor should be an expert in sports medicine. If you have a rare condition, it is especially important to find a doctor who has the expertise to treat you.
• Communication skills – The quality of communication between a doctor and patient has an enormous impact on how the treatment process will proceed. You should find that your doctor treats you as an individual and takes the time to answer your questions and address your concerns.
• Experience – Even “novice” physicians have extensive education and training. However, doctors who have more experience in the field have had more opportunities to hone their judgment and refine their skills. In most cases, a doctor with more experience is able to provide better care.
• Affordability – Your treatment should be as affordable as possible. Check that the doctor takes your insurance before making an appointment, and find out whether or not he is dedicated to keeping costs to a minimum.
• Patient reviews – Do previous patients generally have positive or negative things to say about the doctor? Reviews from past patients can give you an idea of what you can expect with the doctor, but ultimately you are the only one who can decide whether or not a physician is a good fit for your needs.

Top Orthopedic Doctor Near Fountain Valley, CA

Dr. Howard Marans is the best reviewed orthopedic doctor near Fountain Valley, CA. Throughout more than twenty years in the orthopedic field, Dr. Marans has continued to refine his skills and adopt the newest, most minimally invasive procedures, all with the goal of improving patient care and outcomes. Dr. Marans is a sports medicine expert who has treated Olympians and other elite athletes, alongside the general population. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his clear communication and kind bedside manner, as well as his clinical judgment and technical skill.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have a problem affecting your joints or bones, it is important to visit an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Below, we will take a look at how and where you can find the best reviewed orthopedic surgeon in Huntington Beach.

When to Visit an Orthopedist

Sometimes, people put off seeing an orthopedist because they dismiss their symptoms as normal. This is especially common when the injury develops slowly over time, as can occur with repetitive stress injuries and degenerative injuries. It is important to realize that it is not normal to experience pain on a regular basis, and that treatment is available.

You should see a doctor if you have pain that lasts for longer than a week. You should also visit a doctor sooner if you have symptoms such as severe pain, pain that gets progressively worse, numbness or tingling in an extremity, muscle weakness, or signs of a broken bone. Early treatment is associated with faster, more complete recovery; in addition, getting treatment for orthopedic problem helps you get relief from your pain and other symptoms.

Choosing an Orthopedic Surgeon

Not all orthopedic surgeons are created equal, so it is best to do some research before choosing an orthopedic surgeon in Huntington Beach. You may ask friends and family who have had orthopedic problems to recommend a doctor they had a good experience with. Your primary care doctor can also be a good source of recommendations. In addition, many people do the bulk of their research on the Internet, where it is easy to compare different doctors and to read reviews from past patients.

As you research physicians in your area, be sure to consider the following questions:

• How much experience does the doctor have?
• Is the doctor dedicated to using minimally invasive procedures whenever possible?
• What is the doctor’s area of expertise? For example, if you are an athlete, does the doctor specialize in sports medicine?
• Are you satisfied with the quality of communication you get from the doctor and his staff?
• Is the physician a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in good standing?
• Do previous patients have positive things to say about their experiences?

Top Orthopedic Surgeon in Huntington Beach

Dr. Howard Marans is the top orthopedic surgeon in Huntington Beach. Dr. Marans has treated orthopedic problems for more than two decades, and he has continued to adopt the newest, most minimally invasive procedures throughout that time. Dr. Marans works to incorporate clinical judgment, technical skill, and good communication to ensure that each patient receives treatment that is both effective and personalized to their particular situation.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have runners knee, getting treatment can relieve your symptoms and allow you to return to your normal activity level. Treatment options for runners knee vary considerably depending on the nature and severity of the problem. Below, we will take a look at some of the most common treatment options.

About Runners Knee

Runners knee is common among runners, as well as with other activities involving repetitive knee motions, such as jumping, walking, or biking. Runners knee is not a single condition, but rather a term referring to a number of overuse injuries that cause pain in the front of the knee. The pain can range from mild to severe.

Certain risk factors increase a person’s chance of developing runner’s knee, including:

• Not stretching enough
• Misalignment of the kneecap
• Flat feet
• Improper form when running
• Training that causes the thigh muscles to develop in an imbalanced manner

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Runners Knee

Most of the time, non-surgical treatment options are effective at relieving inflammation and allowing the knee to heal. Some of the most common medications include:

• Rest – Avoiding putting weight on your knee can help ease symptoms and relieve inflammation, but in the long run beginning to use the knee again will be essential for your recovery.
• Ice – Icing the knee can bring down pain and swelling. Icing should be performed for 20-30 minute periods every 3-4 hours for up to 3 days.
• Elevation – When you are sitting or lying down, elevate your knee on a pillow, preferably high enough so that your knee is higher than the level of your heart. Be sure to use pillows to fully support your knee and ankle when it is elevated.
• Compression – Compress the knee with a sleeve, elastic bandage, or patellar straps to provide extra support.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Drugs like Aleve and Advil can relieve pain and inflammation. Do not take NSAIDs or any other medication on a long-term basis without talking to your doctor first; unless otherwise instructed, NSAIDs should be used only occasionally.
• Shoe orthotics – If you have flat feet or tend to use improper running form, orthotic inserts for your shoes can support your feet and improve your overall alignment.
• Physical therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore function to the knee. You should start out by seeing a physical therapist in most cases, but you should continue to perform the exercises you learn every day in the long run.

Surgical Treatment Options

In severe cases, cartilage damage or problems with the position of the kneecap may not respond to non-surgical treatments. In such cases, surgical treatment options for runners knee should be considered. Damaged cartilage can usually be addressed through minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, but kneecap misalignment may require open knee surgery.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have a problem affecting your joints or bones, an orthopedic doctor can diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Below, we will take a look at where you can find the best orthopedic doctor in Tustin.

When to See an Orthopedist

It can be hard to know when to visit a doctor about your orthopedic health. Athletes sometimes dismiss pain and other symptoms as a normal part of training, while older people may believe that pain is an inevitable side effect of aging. It is important to realize that it is never normal to experience pain on a regular basis.

You should visit an orthopedist if:

• You have had pain for longer than a few days
• You have pain that is getting progressively worse
• You have severe pain
• You are unable to use a joint or limb
• You have muscle weakness
• You are experiencing numbness or tingling in one of your extremities
• You believe that you have broken a bone

Choosing an Orthopedic Doctor

The quality of your orthopedic doctor can make a big difference in how you experience your treatment, so it is important to carefully research doctors in your area to find a physician who is a good fit. Some of the most important things to consider when choosing an orthopedist include:

• Bedside manner – You should feel comfortable talking to the doctor, and find that he takes the time to address your questions and concerns.
• Years of experience – A more experienced doctor is most likely to have the right skills and experience to provide excellent treatment.
• Approach to treatment – Is the doctor dedicated to using minimally invasive treatments whenever possible? Minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopic surgery are associated with lower costs, less downtime, and lower risks.
• Insurance affiliations – Your insurance will only pay for your appointment and treatment if your doctor accepts your insurance policy, so be sure to look at the doctor’s insurance affiliations before making an appointment.
• What other patients say – Reading reviews and talking to friends and family members can give you some insight into what other patients have experienced with a particular physician. You should look for a doctor who has overwhelmingly positive feedback from past patients.

Top Tustin Orthopedist

Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic, is the top orthopedist in Tustin, CA. Dr. Marans has treated thousands of patients throughout his two decades in the field. Throughout that time, he has continued to adopt the newest, most minimally invasive treatments. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his good communication skills and personalized approach to treatment.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Orthopedic problems are among the most common health issues in the United States. If you have joint pain or other signs of an orthopedic problem, it may be time to visit an orthopedic specialist. Below, we will take a look at what you should consider when choosing an orthopedic specialist, as well as what you can expect at your consultation.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

At your consultation, your doctor will begin by asking you about your medical history and your current symptoms. You will also answer questions about your lifestyle, your family medical history, and other issues. All of this information will help your doctor provide appropriate treatment.

Then, the doctor will perform a physical examination. The examination will focus on the affected part of the body. Physical examination is sometimes enough to diagnose an orthopedic condition, but other times it is necessary to use diagnostic imaging tests like CT scanning or x-rays to identify the exact cause of the problem. Your doctor may also order a blood test in some cases.

Once the doctor has made a diagnosis, he or she will work with you to develop an initial course of treatment that is likely to be effective. The course of treatment will vary depending on the nature of your injury, your age, and your activity level, as well as the presence of any other health problems.

Choosing an Orthopedic Specialist

The quality of your orthopedic specialist will have a big impact on how successful the treatment is, so it is important to do your research before scheduling a consultation. Some of the most important things to consider include:

• Board certification – The doctor should be a board-certified orthopedist. In addition, make sure that the doctor is in good standing with the state board.
• Areas of expertise – Some patients have special needs that require additional expertise. For example, if you are an athlete, look for a doctor who specializes in sports medicine. If you have an unusual or serious condition, look for a doctor who is familiar with patients like you.
• Bedside manner – Communication is a cornerstone of an effective relationship with your doctor, so look for a physician with great bedside manner.
• Experience – A more experienced physician is more likely to have the skills and judgment to provide excellent care.
• Approach to treatment – Minimally invasive methods should be used whenever possible, because they are associated with a lower risk of side effects and a shorter downtime. However, more invasive procedures are sometimes necessary even if the doctor is dedicated to using minimally invasive procedures when possible.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Knee fractures and knee ligament tears can both affect athletes and other individuals. In many cases, these types of knee injuries require surgery. Below, we will take a look at the basics about knee fractures and ligament tears, as well as how each condition can be treated.

About Knee Fractures

Three bones meet at the knee: the patella (kneebone), femur (thighbone), and tibia (shinbone). If the knee is subjected to trauma in a fall or car accident, or if repetitive stress occurs (rare), it is possible for one or more of these bones to break. The severity of breaks varies significantly, from hairline fractures to breaks in which a bone is shattered into many pieces or in which part of a bone sticks through the skin or muscle.

Knee fractures are a serious condition. If not treated promptly, serious complications may occur. In addition, not getting prompt treatment can make it more difficult for the knee to heal properly.

Knee Fracture Surgery

If the knee fracture is simple and the bone is still in place, the doctor may treat it by immobilizing the knee through casting or other methods. If the knee fracture is complex or the bone is out of its normal position, the doctor will need to perform open reduction and internal fixation. During knee fracture surgery, the doctor opens up the knee, returns the bone to its normal position, and uses screws or rods to hold the bone in place. Then, casting can occur. The hardware may be left in permanently, or may be removed later on.

About Torn Ligaments

The knee contains four ligaments which contribute to its stability and flexibility. These ligaments may tear after sudden twists to the knee, or after trauma. Torn ligaments vary in severity from mild to severe. Mild tears may cause only mild symptoms which resolve on their own within a few weeks. If a ligament is torn in two, the person may be totally unable to move the knee.

Torn Ligament Surgery

Surgery is often used to treat ligament tears, especially if the patient is younger or more physically active. Torn ligament surgery can be performed arthroscopically, which means that the doctor makes only small incisions, and inserts a camera and tools through the incisions. In most cases, torn ligament surgery is an outpatient procedure, and there is no need for general anesthesia.

If you are suffering from knee pain or other symptoms of knee problems, you should visit a doctor about your symptoms. Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee injury. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you know that you may need orthopedic surgery, cost is often a concern even when you know how important treatment is for your health. Fortunately, the cost of being treated by an orthopedic surgeon in Huntington Beach should be covered by your insurance, which means that treatment is affordable for the majority of patients.

Types of Orthopedic Surgery

One of the biggest factors that contributes to the cost of surgery is what type of surgery is used. Less invasive surgery takes less time and fewer resources to perform, and may not require a hospital stay. However, more invasive surgery is sometimes necessary. The most common types of orthopedic surgery are:

• Arthroscopic surgery – During this procedure, the doctor makes tiny incisions near the joint. A camera is inserted through one incision, while small tools are inserted through the other incisions. This allows the doctor to operate on the joint without actually opening it up.
• Open joint surgery – If the injury is complex or a lot of reconstruction is required, then the doctor may need to access a diseased or injured joint via open joint surgery. During this procedure, the doctor makes a large incision to directly access the joint.
• Open reduction and internal fixation – Most broken bones can be treated by casting. However, if a bone is broken into many pieces or part of the bone is out of its normal place, then the doctor may need to operate. During open reduction and internal fixation, a large incision is made. The doctor first returns the bone to its normal position, then holds it in that position by securing it with screws, rods, or pins.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

The cost of most surgery in America tends to be significant regardless of what type of surgery is performed. However, the cost of being treated by an orthopedic surgeon in Huntington Beach should be covered by your insurance, since it is a medical procedure. This means that your out-of-pocket costs will depend primarily on the nature of your insurance coverage. Some patients have very high deductibles, while others face out-of-pocket costs which are more manageable.

Financing Options 

Many patients are able to handle the cost of treatment using just their insurance coverage and their existing financial resources. However, for some patients it may be necessary to spread the cost of treatment over several payments. These patients can consider financing options such as health care credit cards and patient financing companies.

Top Orthopedic Surgeon in Huntington Beach

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.