A spine surgeon at Northern Arizona Orthopaedics (NAO) is now offering a groundbreaking procedure that could revolutionize the way spinal stenosis surgeries are performed. Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Dr. Fady Hijji recently completed his third dual portal endoscopic spine surgery, a revolutionary procedure that targets and decompresses the nerves in the spinal canal through two microscopic incisions. This new and innovative surgery is only offered by a handful of specialized medical centers … [Read more...] about Flagstaff Surgeon Completes Groundbreaking Surgery for Compressed Spines
Northern Arizona Orthopaedics
Northern Arizona Orthopaedics Donates to Flagstaff High School’s Athletic Department
As a proud supporter of local student sports, Northern Arizona Orthopaedics donated $1,500 to the Flagstaff High School Athletic Department. Each year, Northern Arizona Orthopaedics matches the fees collected during an annual sports physical event hosted for local high school student athletes. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event was canceled. Although 2020 would have marked the 8th consecutive year Northern Arizona Orthopaedics held an annual sports clinic with a matched … [Read more...] about Northern Arizona Orthopaedics Donates to Flagstaff High School’s Athletic Department
Northern Arizona Orthopaedics Reopens Clinic and Continues to Offer Telehealth
Northern Arizona Orthopaedics has re-opened their clinics after determining the safest and most practical means. This includes an evaluation process for each patient during the scheduling process that will determine if they are they are at low risk during an in-office visit. However, if patients fall into the “at risk” category, they will have the option of receive diagnosis and treatment options via Northern Arizona Orthopaedics telehealth program. “At risk” patients will include: … [Read more...] about Northern Arizona Orthopaedics Reopens Clinic and Continues to Offer Telehealth
Is Frozen Shoulder in the Winter Forecast?
A frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, may be a cause of your shoulder pain. It usually occurs slowly over time, and it can limit the functional use of your arm. Contrary to its name (and fortunately for Flagstaffians), snow and ice have nothing to do with a frozen shoulder. When you have a frozen shoulder, shoulder pain and tightness make it difficult to reach overhead to perform simple activities like putting away dishes or combing your hair. Men might have a hard time reaching … [Read more...] about Is Frozen Shoulder in the Winter Forecast?
Getting Your Body in Shape for Winter Sports
With Snowbowl now in full swing, skiing and snowboarding are on the minds of many of us in Northern Arizona. If you are in this category, you know how you feel at the end of the season – your musculoskeletal health is in excellent shape. However, that usually isn’t the case at the very start of a ski season. It’s always best to dedicate some time to ensuring your muscles, joints, ligaments and cardiovascular system are prepared for an injury-free season ahead. Skiing and snowboarding demand … [Read more...] about Getting Your Body in Shape for Winter Sports
Knowing Which to Visit: ER, Urgent Care or Orthopaedic Walk-in
Injuries and illnesses occur when you least expect them. Nearby urgent care clinics can give people the medical care they need, usually at a fraction of the cost or time of an emergency room (ER). They provide care for a wide variety of sicknesses, diseases and other conditions. There are also specialty walk-in clinics that treat musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures, sprains and strains from falls and impact accidents. These are orthopaedic walk-in care clinics. Q: What are the … [Read more...] about Knowing Which to Visit: ER, Urgent Care or Orthopaedic Walk-in
Wondering About a Hip Replacement?
The ability to walk in a balanced, fluid motion is something that many of us take for granted. The hip joint is an essential part in creating this function. When pain and stiffness alter this ability and non-operative measures fail, I begin the discussion with my patients about total hip replacements. This surgery involves replacing the damaged hip with a properly functioning prosthetic joint, restoring the patient’s range of motion and relieving their pain. Hip Anatomy and Background The hip … [Read more...] about Wondering About a Hip Replacement?
Surgical Advancements Help Improve Trigger Finger Treatment Experience
Every day, there are new advancements in medicine and surgical procedures. New technology and specially trained surgeons mean a greater number of minimally invasive surgical procedures are being performed in hospitals or clinics on an outpatient (no overnight hospital stay) basis, allowing the patient to go home within hours after surgery. Recently, a breakthrough in these minimally invasive procedures is beginning to take shape. These surgeries can now take place in adapted procedure … [Read more...] about Surgical Advancements Help Improve Trigger Finger Treatment Experience
What do Skiing, Kids and ACLs Have in Common?
Some had dreams of a snow-blanketed mountain by Dec. 1, but it’s only a matter of time. Soon, folks from all walks of life will begin cruising down snow-covered slopes in our local mountain regions. Skiing offers recreation, leisure, exercise, connection and, for the more serious youth, competition. As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, a parent of young competitive skiers and a former ski racing competitor myself, I personally have seen both joy and pain on and off the … [Read more...] about What do Skiing, Kids and ACLs Have in Common?
Treating an Ankle Sprain
For many in Flagstaff active in various types of sports and recreation, an ankle sprain is an unfortunate and uncomfortable set back. Recently, a good friend of mine sustained her first ankle sprain and we had a long discussion regarding various aspects of this injury. This is the gist of our conversation and the answers to many Frequently Asked Questions about ankle sprains. Research tells us that ankle sprains are the most common reason for Emergency Department visits in the … [Read more...] about Treating an Ankle Sprain