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About Orthopedic Specialists

Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle provides new and advanced procedures including endoscopic carpel tunnel release surgery for carpal tunnel syrome, complex joint restoration procedures, anterior approach hip replacement surgery, and more.

Tennis Elbow – Should I See a Doctor?

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is a painful condition where the outer part of the elbow becomes sore and tender due to repetitive motions that put a strain on the elbow. Tennis elbow is one of the most common repetitive stress injuries.

Common Causes of Tennis Elbow

While commonly referred to as tennis elbow, only 5% of the people afflicted with this injury are actually tennis players. In fact, the majority of people who suffer from tennis elbow are not athletes. … read more

Meniscus Tear: Signs, Symptoms, and Signals

The word ëmeniscusí means crescent shaped structure and owes its origin to Greek. The C-shaped meniscus made of tough cartilage is wedged between the cartilage surfaces covering the three bones that form our knee joint. Meniscus aids the function of the joint by distributing weight and improving its stability. The function of meniscus is of grave importance for the general health of the knee. Meniscus tear or torn cartilage can severely impair the mobility of the knee joint.

Meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries that results in severe pain in the joint. It is especially common among athletes and sportsmen who play contact sports such as football, boxing, and hockey. There are two chief causes for meniscus tear ñ It can be due to traumatic injury, primarily seen in athletes or due to degenerative processes that are seen in older patients who have more brittle cartilages. Sudden twisting and turning or bending the knee joint is sometimes responsible for torn meniscus. Rotating the knee while slightly bent can cause meniscus tear. … read more

Arthroscopic Approach to Hip Surgery

In late January, hip arthroscopy, a procedure that Dr. Phil Downer of Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle performs, was featured in a King 5 article.

What is hip arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a common treatment for hip impingement and labral tears (often the result of impingement conditions).

In hip arthroscopy, the surgeon uses small instruments and a small incision to perform various interventions, which might include removing pieces of scar tissue, repairing cartilage or removing bone. Recovery can vary, but typically if bone work is performed, the recovery is 2-3 months. One should remain active during this time, mainly taking part in low impact activities such as swimming and biking.

We see a lot of patients at Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle with hip impingement and labral tears who benefit from arthroscopy.

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Open MRI available at Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle

Many of us tense up just thinking about getting an MRI. The traditional enclosed tunnel or tube-like MRI units cause anxiety and claustrophobia. But did you know that Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle offers open MRI?

Open-Air MRI

Our open-air MRI is completely open on all four sides so patients don’t feel confined. Open MRI is a great option for those with claustrophobia or fear of small spaces, or for large patients.

Our MRI contains a padded bed on which you will lie during the exam. An MRI technologist will be in continual voice and visual contact with you. Exams normally last 45 to 60 minutes.

OSS’ advanced system has a powerful magnet, so the pictures of the inner body are clear, have great detail and allow our physicians to diagnose orthopedic issues and medical conditions early and accurately.

In addition to the comfort and precision, our open MRI lets patients relax without loud noises, common with many other units. We’re pleased to be able to provide a convenient and comfortable option for our patients who require MRIs.

Our MRIs are read by Seattle Radiologists, one of the leading radiology groups in the Seattle area.

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