Bringing Multispecialty Expertise to Dover, NH

When it comes to orthopedic care, residents of Dover and the surrounding areas have plenty of options to choose from. But if you’re looking for a practice that delivers a unique combination of multispecialty expertise, compassion and patient-focused care, Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine stands out. With a team of surgeons and specialists who treat the full range of orthopedic issues, including fractures and trauma, arthritis, pain management, and arthroscopic and joint replacement surgeries, AOSM offers an unmatched level of comprehensive care.

Unlike other practices that may focus on one or two areas like knees and hips, our highly skilled team brings a diverse range of specialties that cover the entire musculoskeletal system–from the neck and spine to shoulders, elbows and wrists, to knees, hips, feet and ankles. Our orthopedic surgeons bring a wealth of knowledge gleaned from top universities, world class residencies, and prestigious fellowships. Knee and hip specialist Dr. Akhilesh Sastry is recognized as the first surgeon to perform a robotic-assisted total knee replacement in New Hampshire and was among the first 15 surgeons to perform the operation worldwide. The newest addition to our team, Dr. Abigail Boduch, completed her Orthopedic Surgery Residency and Orthopedic Trauma Fellowship at Brown University, a Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh, then served as assistant team physician to the Pittsburgh Steelers before returning to her home state of NH to join our practice. This breadth of experience means that patients receive complete, cohesive care in one place, ensuring that treatment is coordinated between providers and handled by someone who truly understands their unique condition and goals.

Another benefit that sets Atlantic Orthopaedics apart is the level of care and compassion our team offers. As the largest physician-owned orthopedic practice in New Hampshire, we are uniquely equipped to prioritize patient experience. When physicians, rather than executives, determine how a practice is run, it fundamentally changes the approach to care, allowing for a more personal touch. Our doctors themselves shape the way care is delivered and have put systems and processes in place that put patients first. From consultation to treatment to recovery, our team is dedicated to providing the best possible patient experience, while maintaining the highest standards of medical care.

Choosing Atlantic Orthopaedics means choosing a practice that’s genuinely invested in the well-being of every patient. It means being treated by the best doctors around, whose comprehensive expertise and commitment to compassionate care truly sets them apart. We believe in taking the time to really listen to our patients, to understand their unique needs, so we create a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. Whether you’re an athlete dealing with a sports injury or someone managing chronic joint pain, Atlantic Orthopaedics is here to provide the care and support you need to feel your best. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you get back to doing what you love, pain-free.

Read what our patients have to say:

“Recently had my 2nd hip replacement procedure by Dr. Sastry and Dr. Cusson. These guys do a great job! Was again impressed by their expertise. Also, all staff associates at their surgical center were terrific. Like my 1st operation, I’m hoping to be back on the tennis court within 10 weeks. Thank you Atlantic!” – Steven G.

“You will not find a doctor better than Dr. Lehn. Always makes you feel comfortable about the procedure you are having and always takes the time to answer your questions. So grateful to have his expertise in treating my back issues.” – Joanne P.

“Doctor McMahon is great. He spent time explaining the procedure, listened and answered all my questions. It was an excellent experience.” – Ed P.

Get to Know Dr. Abigail Boduch

We’re excited to welcome the newest member of our team, Dr. Abigail Boduch. An orthopedic surgeon who specializes in Sports Medicine and Trauma, Dr. Boduch has experience treating athletes at all levels, from professional to high school, and looks forward to being part of our local sports community. An alumna of Winnacunnet High School and UNH, Dr. Boduch recently returned “home” to the Seacoast to join us at Atlantic Orthopaedics.

To help our patients get to know her better, we recently asked Dr. Boduch some questions about her roots on the Seacoast, her favorite part of her job, and how she likes to spend her free time.

How do you feel about moving back to the NH Seacoast?
I loved growing up here. The beauty of the Seacoast, as well as the access to the ocean and mountains, has never been lost on me. It is a wonderful place to live. The community has always meant so much to me and I am grateful to be back. I feel very fortunate to be able to provide care for the people in what I have always considered “my community”.

What made you want to join the practice at Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine?
It really stood out to me how much everyone was invested and interested in each other’s lives at work and outside of work. I was also impressed by the level of care provided for the patients. Everyone I interacted with exemplified the team mentality I love about orthopedics. The partners talked about doing hard cases together and collaborating on patients to provide the best care possible.

What made you pursue orthopedic surgery over other specialties?
I liked most specialties I rotated through during medical school and think I would’ve been happy in a lot of areas of medicine. I enjoy talking to patients and getting to know their stories, which is a large part of most medical fields. Orthopedics stood out to me because it is very tangible. Patients tell you what the problem is and, based on anatomy knowledge, you have a diagnosis and usually can work to find a solution that improves the symptoms. It is all about getting people back to what they love to do. Keeping mobility has such a direct impact on everyone’s day to day life that it is very rewarding to be able to help patients maintain that for as long as possible.

I also love how in orthopedics I am part of a team again. I played sports in high school and college and liked the team dynamics. Surgical fields in general have a team mentality, as it takes a lot of people working together to operate, but I think orthopedics stood out as the most team oriented. In the office we rely on physical therapists to guide our patients through post op rehabilitation or work closely with the therapists for non-operative treatments.

What is your specialty?
My specialty is Sports Medicine/Trauma. Sports injuries of the shoulder, elbow, and knee. Injuries to tendons, ligaments, cartilage and other soft tissues. Treatments with arthroscopic and open approaches for the shoulder and knee. Trauma, focusing on fractures of the extremities.

Sports Medicine specifically adds the aspect of team coverage. During my fellowship, I was fortunate to cover the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins, which was a great experience. But I like the idea of sports team coverage more on the community level. Getting to be the team doctor for a high school gets you into the community and I like feeling like I am part of the sports community again.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The relationships I have with patients are the most rewarding. Gaining the trust of a patient to care for them is a privilege. This relationship includes listening to their symptoms, being able to validate them by explaining what I think is the cause and lastly deciding how to move forward together. On the surface this is getting people back into their activities, whether it is a sporting activity or getting back to daily activities in less pain. But for me it is the relationship and trust that is required to do that which is the most rewarding.

What are your favorite things to do when you’re not working?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and our family. We like to take advantage of everything NH has to offer. We enjoy camping, hiking and paddleboarding. We also love to ski and are looking forward to being close to the NH mountains again.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Boduch to Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Her background, knowledge, and experience are a perfect complement to our team. If you’re suffering from an injury like a ligament or muscle tear, or experiencing persistent signs of tendonitis, cartilage deterioration to the shoulder, elbow or knee, schedule a consultation with Dr. Boduch. Our specialists will work with you every step of the way to diagnose and treat your condition so you can get back to doing what you love.

What You Should Know About Your Bones and Joints

From October 12 – 20, 2024, Bone and Joint Health National Awareness Week shines a spotlight on the importance of maintaining healthy bones and joints. The week serves as a reminder about how essential it is to prioritize musculoskeletal health, given the widespread impact of bone and joint disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide.

From osteoporosis to arthritis, bone fractures to tendonitis, bone and joint issues affect well-being, mobility, independence, and can significantly reduce overall quality of life. The team at Atlantic Orthopaedics is here to help individuals suffering from these conditions with comprehensive care, advanced treatments, and patient education focused on prevention.

Why Bone and Joint Health Matters

It goes without saying that bones and joints play a fundamental role in daily life, supporting your body, protecting vital organs, and allowing you to move freely. But over time the wear and tear on joints or weakening of bones can lead to serious conditions that make even simple activities like walking, bending, and lifting painful and difficult.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bone and Joint Pain?

Arthritis: a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion.

There are many types of arthritis, and the condition can affect the hands and wrists, knees, hips, feet and ankles, shoulders, or spine. Depending on the type of arthritis, causes can range from normal wear and tear due to aging (osteoarthritis), immune system disorder (rheumatoid arthritis), or too much uric acid in the blood (gout), among others. Risk factors for developing arthritis also vary, and may include smoking, family history, lack of exercise, obesity, and autoimmune disease.

Osteoporosis: a condition that causes the bones to become brittle and fragile, due to loss of tissue, increasing the risk of fractures and broken bones. Osteoporosis occurs when the body doesn’t create enough new bone to keep up with bone loss.

In addition to bones that easily fracture, signs of osteoporosis can include back pain, reduced height, and stooped or hunched posture. Risk factors are varied, and include both lifestyle choices–alcohol consumption, smoking, and sitting for long periods of time–and factors over which you have no control–age, race, gender, family history, and body frame. The likelihood of developing osteoporosis increases with age, and the condition is more common in women, people of Caucasian or Asian descent, and individuals with small body frames (less bone mass). Osteoporosis is more likely to develop in people who are underweight, have decreased sex hormones, don’t get enough calcium, or have medical issues like overactive thyroid, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel syndrome, or celiac disease.

Tendonitis and Bursitis: Inflammation of the tendons or bursae are conditions that lead to the breakdown of the soft tissue that connects bones to muscles. Tendons are bands of tissue, and bursae are sacs of fluid that cushion the joints.

Tendonitis and bursitis are most often the result of repetitive motion or overuse. Tennis elbow and swimmer’s shoulder are types of tendonitis, and people who work in professions that involve repeated motions, like house painting and carpentry, are also susceptible to the condition. Tendonitis and bursitis can also be caused by injury, and may affect the shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, ankle, or elbow.

Injuries: Traumatic injuries, like those caused by sports or accidents, can damage bones and joints, requiring immediate and ongoing care.

Atlantic Orthopaedics understands the profound impact that bone and joint issues can have on your life. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons and medical professionals are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you manage pain, restore function, and get back to doing the activities you love. We offer a range of services, from preventative care to advanced surgical techniques to address the unique needs of each patient.

What Is Involved in Treating Bone and Joint Issues?

Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis: We begin by conducting a thorough evaluation of your condition, using advanced diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of your bone or joint issues. Then we work with you to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle and goals.

Non-Surgical Treatments: For many patients, non-surgical options are the first line of defense for bone and joint problems. These treatments may include physical therapy, medication management, and injections, with a focus on relieving pain, improving mobility, and preventing further damage.

Surgical Solutions: When surgery is necessary, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons use cutting-edge technology and techniques, like robotic-assisted joint replacement, to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our team of specialists have expertise performing a range of advanced surgical procedures, from minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to total joint replacement.

Bone and Joint Health Awareness Week is a perfect time to take proactive steps toward improving your long-term bone and joint health. Whether you’re dealing with arthritis, osteoporosis, or recovering from a sports injury, don’t let pain hold you back. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you live an active, pain-free life.

Understanding Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is extremely common. In fact, over five hundred million people worldwide show symptoms associated with the condition. But not all arthritis is the same. The two most prevalent types are Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA), and understanding the distinctions between the two can help patients manage their symptoms more effectively and seek the appropriate treatment.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, specifically the synovium–the lining of the membranes that surround the joints and help it move smoothly. This causes inflammation that can lead to joint damage and deformities over time. Patients might also experience systemic symptoms like fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. Onset can occur at any age, but RA is most commonly diagnosed in adults between age 30-60. 1.5 million people in the U.S. have RA, and women are three times more likely than men to develop the condition. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors play a significant role.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis may include physical therapy and low impact exercise to improve mobility, anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain, steroids, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics to slow the progression, and joint replacement surgery. There is no cure for RA, but the goal of treatment is to limit joint damage and put the disease into remission.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage–the tissue that covers the ends of the bones in a joint. Over time, the cartilage breaks down, causing bones to rub against each other. This leads to pain, swelling, and decreased mobility. Unlike RA, OA is generally associated with wear and tear of the joints. Symptoms, including pain, tenderness, stiffness, and loss of flexibility, are typically localized to the affected joints. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include age, joint injuries, repetitive stress on the joint, and obesity.

Atlantic Orthopaedics’ Dr. Akhil Sastry is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee joint replacement. He is a pioneer of robotic-assisted total knee replacement and has performed the surgery over 1,000 times. A recent patient had this to say about his experience with Dr. Sastry:

“I had an excellent experience and result with Dr. Sastry. He worked with me prior to surgery to ensure I could continue the activities important to me despite having osteoarthritis in the knee. After a year and a half, we agreed that I needed surgery and Dr. Sastry gave me a partial knee replacement. The pre op communication and approach were not only effective but used the latest practices to minimize pain and recover quickly. The entire surgical team helped make the surgery itself a success. But the proof is in the result, after 8 weeks of physical therapy, I am back doing the sports I love like tennis and bike riding. I am very grateful to Dr. Sastry and his team.”

Below, Dr. Sastry answers a frequently asked question about osteoarthritis.

What are the best ways to handle osteoarthritis in my knee and what are the options for treatment for a very active senior who wants to stay active?*

Treatment options range from weight loss, low impact exercises (biking, elliptical, swimming), over the counter anti-inflammatory medications, injections, and joint replacement surgeries. Depending on the severity of disease and the limitations that are inflicted, an orthopedic surgeon can implement a treatment program that would be the most suitable for your needs.

Managing Osteoarthritis in the Knee: Treatment Options for Active Seniors

Physical activity: Staying active is one of the most effective ways to manage knee osteoarthritis. Gentle exercise like walking or swimming can help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the knee, providing better support and joint stability.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on your knees. Even a small amount of weight loss can significantly decrease the load on your knee joints, alleviating pain and slowing the progression of OA. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can also help improve symptoms.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise program to improve your knee’s strength and flexibility. They can also teach you techniques to modify your movements to reduce pain and prevent further damage.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation in the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid injections, which mimic the natural fluid in your knee, can also help lubricate the joint.
Surgical options: If conservative treatments aren’t providing sufficient relief and your mobility is impaired, surgery may be advised. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, can be used to remove damaged cartilage or bone fragments. In more severe cases, partial or total knee replacement surgery might be necessary. These procedures can significantly reduce pain and improve function, allowing you to remain active.

If you are suffering from joint pain due to arthritis, don’t delay getting treatment. There are many options, both non-surgical and surgical, that can improve your quality of life and get you back to doing the activities you love. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sastry to discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

*Medical Disclosure: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we do not dispense medical advice or treatments to individuals who have not been seen by a healthcare professional.

It’s crucial to understand that every individual’s medical situation is unique, and what may work for one person may not necessarily work for another. Additionally, individuals may have underlying health conditions, allergies, or other factors that require personalized attention and consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.

Therefore, we strongly advise individuals to consult with a licensed healthcare professional before initiating any new treatments, making changes to their current treatment regimen, or addressing any medical concerns. This includes seeking professional guidance for managing allergies, assessing potential medication interactions, and ensuring overall safety and efficacy of any suggested treatments.

We are not liable for any actions taken based on the information provided on this blog. The responsibility for healthcare decisions lies solely with the individual and their healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly.