Relief in Days, Not Weeks: A Carpal Tunnel Health Event with Dr. H. Matthew Quitkin

Are you struggling with the discomfort and inconvenience of carpal tunnel syndrome? If so, you’re not alone. Join us for an engaging and educational event designed to provide you with insights, solutions, and hope for lasting relief—in just days, not weeks!

Event Highlights:

1. Educational Presentation

Dr. H. Matthew Quitkin will guide you through the essential facts about carpal tunnel syndrome. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and how it can affect your daily life. Understanding your condition is the first step toward recovery.

2. Free Ultrasound Screening

Worried about your wrist health? Take advantage of a complimentary ultrasound screening during the event. This quick and painless evaluation will help identify any potential issues in your wrist.

3. Explore Cutting-Edge Treatment Options

Gone are the days of prolonged recovery. Discover the latest minimally invasive techniques for carpal tunnel release, which allow you to heal in days rather than weeks or months. Dr. Quitkin will discuss these innovative approaches and help you determine which treatment is best for you.

4. Candidate Assessment

Find out if you qualify for advanced Carpal Tunnel Release with UltraGuideCTR™. This state-of-the-art procedure minimizes downtime, so you can get back to what you love sooner.

Why Attend?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly impact your quality of life, making even simple tasks feel impossible. This event is your chance to take control of your health with expert guidance and innovative solutions.

With Dr. Quitkin’s expertise and the use of minimally invasive techniques, recovery is measured in days—not weeks. Don’t let wrist pain hold you back any longer.

Event Details:

When: Wednesday, January 22nd 2025 5:15-7:00pm
Where: 1900 Lafayette Road, Portsmouth NH – Atlantic Orthopaedics Portsmouth NH Location
Cost: FREE

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Seats are limited, so don’t wait! Reserve your spot today and start your journey toward a 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.

Will Injections Help or Do I Need Surgery? The Straight Facts About Cortisone Shots

Cortisone is a potent anti-inflammatory medication that can be used to treat a wide range of orthopedic conditions, but Cortisone shots are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For some patients, injections can be highly effective, but in other cases it may be time to consider surgery.

According to orthopedic surgeon Dr. Noerdlinger, there are three common misconceptions people have about cortisone shots:

1. Cortisone is Just Temporary

Although the effects can be temporary, there are cases where Cortisone can offer long lasting pain relief for years.

2. Cortisone Only Masks the Pain

Novocain, such as lidocaine, will mask pain, but Cortisone decreases the inflammation which is causing the pain. The analogy is taking a steroid to decrease the inflammation from a sore throat. The steroid effect of the Cortisone decreases the inflammation and allows the joint to move more freely, enabling the patient to rehabilitate the joint more effectively.

3. Cortisone Damages Tissue

Used judiciously, cortisone will not damage tissue. Just like taking a bottle of Tylenol will destroy the liver, large amounts of cortisone–in a short time period, in the same body part–can weaken the collagen fibers. But, like Tylenol, where it is ok to finish off the bottle over the course of a year, intermittent Cortisone injections are permissible.

While Cortisone shots can be incredibly beneficial for some, there are situations where surgical intervention may be necessary:

1. Loss of Function

If your orthopedic condition has progressed to the point where it severely limits your ability to participate in daily activities and compromises your quality of life, it may be time to consider surgery.

2. Structural Damage

In patients with significant structural damage to a joint, such as advanced osteoarthritis with bone-on-bone contact, joint replacement surgery may be the best solution to restore function and relieve pain.

3. Repeated Injections are Ineffective

If you find yourself needing frequent Cortisone injections for the same issue, it indicates that the underlying problem can’t be managed with injections alone. If Cortisone offers only temporary relief, it might be time to have a discussion with your orthopedic specialist about surgical options.

Cortisone is a valuable tool in orthopedic care, providing pain relief and delaying the need for surgery in some patients. But it’s important to recognize the limitations of injections and to know when it’s time to consider the next step–surgical intervention like joint replacement. One scenario in which cortisone injections are not recommended is in the setting of fixable rotator cuff tears in patients considering surgery. Studies show that re-rupture rates and infection rates are higher in patients undergoing rotator cuff repairs who receive cortisone injections before surgery.

Your orthopedic specialist is your best resource in determining the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition, symptoms, and goals. Whether it’s cortisone injections or joint replacement surgery, the ultimate aim is to help you regain function, eliminate pain, and enjoy a high quality of life.

Is Pain in Your Thumb Holding You Back?

CMC Arthroplasty As A Solution For Thumb Pain

If you’re experiencing pain and stiffness at the base of your thumb, you might be dealing with CMC (carpometacarpal) arthritis. But don’t worry – you’re not alone. There are effective treatment options available for this common thumb condition that can provide much-needed pain relief and restore motion.

What are the symptoms of CMC arthritis?

Common symptoms include pain at the base of the thumb, especially during pinch and grip activities. The joint also may become swollen and tender to the touch. Typically, CMC arthritis decreases mobility in the thumb, and weakness may develop that makes it difficult to grasp objects.

What causes CMC arthritis?

CMC arthritis is a degenerative condition, often attributed to the aging process. Other contributing factors can include:

Repetitive use: activities that require repetitive thumb movements can accelerate joint wear and tear.
Trauma: a previous thumb injury can increase the risk of developing CMC arthritis.
Genetics: genetic history may predispose some people to joint degeneration.
Inflammatory conditions: certain immune or inflammatory conditions can contribute to CMC arthritis.

Atlantic Orthopaedics’ hand surgeon Dr. Meyer answers some common questions about CMC Arthroplasty, a life-changing procedure for patients suffering from advanced thumb arthritis.

In your own words, how does this procedure benefit your patients?
Arthritis at the base of the thumb (CMC arthritis) is a common source of pain and disability for adults, affecting one in three women and one in eight men over the course of their lifetime. A variety of treatment options exist, starting with conservative management (bracing, therapy, anti-inflammatories, corticosteroid injections) and progressing to surgery. For advanced thumb CMC arthritis that does not respond to the above treatments, CMC arthroplasty can provide lasting pain relief and improvement in thumb strength and motion.

There are a variety of surgical techniques for CMC arthroplasty. Most involve the removal of the painful, arthritic bone at the base of the thumb (trapezium) and use of a nearby tendon to stabilize the thumb in its native position. Recent innovations in the field of hand surgery have allowed for the use of a non-absorbable suture instead of a patient’s own tendon to maintain the thumb’s resting position. This procedure, termed a suture-button suspensionplasty, avoids complications from harvesting nearby tendons and allows for accelerated rehabilitation and recovery after surgery. While most other techniques require between four to six weeks of immobilization in a cast, I allow my patients to start gentle motion after their first post-operative visit (approximately 10 days after surgery) when using this technique.

Who is a good candidate for this procedure?
Thumb CMC arthritis can affect anyone, but it becomes more prevalent with older age. This procedure is typically indicated for middle-age and elderly adults who have painful arthritis at the base of their thumb that limits their daily activities.

Where do you perform this procedure ?
I perform thumb CMC arthroplasty procedures at NECOS, Portsmouth Regional Hospital, and York Hospital.

Do you have a recent patient success story you can share?
A 65-year-old retired professional pianist presented to the office with painful thumb CMC arthritis that failed to improve with bracing and steroid injections. Alleviating pain and preserving thumb motion were her biggest priorities. Due to her activity level, we elected to perform a CMC arthroplasty using the suture-button suspensionplasty technique.

Her surgery and post-operative course both progressed very smoothly. She was seen at her first post-operative visit and transitioned to a removable brace that allowed for gentle motion. At six weeks, she began gentle strengthening under the guidance of our occupational therapy team. At three months, she was cleared to return to full activity. She is back to playing piano and feels that her motion is even better than before surgery because she is no longer limited by pain. We were thrilled to help her get back to one of her favorite activities and to enable her to keep teaching other aspiring pianists. Anything else you’d like current or future patients to know about this procedure and how it would benefit them?
Thumb CMC arthroplasty yields excellent results, but it is not the only treatment recommendation for patients with thumb CMC arthritis. There are a variety of non-surgical and surgical treatments that can help with pain at the base of the thumb prior to considering a CMC arthroplasty. Every patient evaluation begins with a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and radiographs (x-rays) of the hand. From there, I work with each patient to understand their goals before we collectively decide on an appropriate treatment plan moving forward.

CMC arthritis can be a debilitating condition, but there is help available. For many patients, CMC Arthroplasty has proven to be an effective way to alleviate pain and restore quality of life. If you’re suffering from pain and limited function in your thumb, schedule a consultation with Dr. Meyer to discuss whether CMC Arthroplasty may be right for you.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Help the Body Heal Itself

What Are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections?

PRP injections are a treatment that separates the platelets in a patient’s own blood and uses them to promote healing. A small sample of blood is collected and placed in a centrifuge, a machine that spins at high speeds to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the other components, like red and white blood cells. Guided by ultrasound imaging to ensure accuracy and precision, the concentrated PRP is then injected directed into the affected area. The entire procedure takes about an hour.

Post-injection care may mean avoiding certain movements or activities for a period of time to optimize the healing process and minimize potential side effects. It’s normal for the injection site to become inflamed and may be quite painful for one to three days following treatment. The swelling and soreness are part of the healing process, and patients should avoid taking anti-inflammatory medication like Aspirin or ibuprofen, which can make the injection less effective.

What conditions do PRP injections treat?

PRP injections are frequently used to treat musculoskeletal injuries and orthopedic conditions like tendonitis, ligament sprains, bursitis, and partial rotator cuff tears, and tennis elbow. The injections can also be used to reduce joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation caused by arthritis.

How long will it take for me to see improvement?

Because the bioactive substances in the platelet-rich plasma need time to stimulate tissue repair and cellular regeneration, it can take a few weeks to start noticing the effects of PRP injections. Patients with musculoskeletal injuries like tendonitis or ligament sprains may experience improved functionality and pain relief quicker than patients with more severe or chronic conditions. Factors like age, overall health, and adherence to post-injection instructions all influence the speed of the healing process. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations to maximize treatment benefits.

We recently sat down for a Q&A with our Sports Medicine provider and PRP expert, Dr. Andrew McMahon.

Q: In your own words, how does this procedure benefit your patients?
A: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses injections of a concentration of a patient’s own platelets to accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints. In this way, PRP injections use each individual patient’s own healing system to improve musculoskeletal problems.

Q: Who is a good candidate for a PRP Injection?
A:

Patients with overall good health
Patients with mild to moderate arthritis, partial tears, or chronic wear and tear injuries
Patients with decreased function due to pain, stiffness, or lack of mobility
Failure with more conservative treatment methods

It’s important to note that while PRP injections are generally considered safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. The treatment can’t be used if the tendon is torn completely and though PRP injections can address symptoms of arthritis, they can’t reverse pre-existing damage. The treatment’s efficacy and appropriateness depend on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors. It’s important to consult with a specialist to evaluate whether PRP injections are appropriate for your specific needs.

Q: Where do you perform this procedure?
In our Portsmouth, NH office only, some of the surgeons use it intraoperatively.

Q: Do you have a recent patient success story you can share?
A: Recently, I have had a lot of success with PRP treating knee arthritis. Peter S. is a 68-year old gentleman who is very active in tennis/pickleball and is an avid skier. His moderate arthritis has given him a lot of stiffness and some pain which resulted in him cutting back on these activities at times, affecting his happiness and mental health. He had a consult for treatment options and we ultimately opted to inject PRP into both knees. Within 4 weeks, he had regained a significant amount of his function and he was able to play more tennis, and he successfully took a week long ski trip to Colorado.

Q: Anything else you’d like current or future patients to know about this procedure and how it would benefit them?
A: In the appropriate patient, PRP can offer a nice treatment option for patients with musculoskeletal problems who have failed conservative treatment options like PT, bracing, and cortisone injections. PRP can help heal soft tissue injuries (a torn tendon, for example), potentially avoiding surgical repair. PRP also provides patients with arthritis a treatment option that decreases pain and increases mobility and function. It typically lasts 2-3 times longer than cortisone injections and does not contribute to deterioration of the joint like a cortisone injection can.

Think PRP Injections may be right for you? Schedule a consultation with our specialist Dr. McMahon to learn more.

Carpal Tunnel Release with Ultrasound Guidance –Rapid Relief With Minimal Recovery Time

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The median nerve runs through the arm and forearm into the hand and controls feeling in the thumb and index, middle, and ring fingers. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when this nerve gets compressed as it passes through the wrist, leading to symptoms that include weakness, numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and first three fingers. The often debilitating condition is the most common workplace injury, affecting an estimated 13 million Americans.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?

Patients with mild CTS symptoms may experience some relief by wearing a wrist splint, getting steroid injections, and avoiding activities that exacerbate the condition, but many cases will require surgical intervention to relieve the pressure on the median nerve. Traditionally, patients had two options: open, or mini-open, carpal tunnel release surgery, and endoscopic surgery. Open surgery, while effective, is an invasive procedure that can leave painful scars and require long recovery times. Endoscopic procedures are less invasive, but can be complicated by limited visualization.

What can I expect if I have Ultrasound Guided Carpal Tunnel Release?

Many patients delay carpal tunnel surgery because of concerns about having an invasive surgery and worry about the recovery time and being able to get back to work. Ultrasound Guided Carpal Tunnel Release is a minimally invasive procedure performed using local anesthesia and requiring a very small incision typically closed with just a bandage. The ultrasound guidance gives the surgeon a clear view of the carpal tunnel, allowing for greater precision and minimizing the risk of complications. Most patients don’t need post-operative physical therapy and return to normal activities within 3-6 days. Our hand and wrist specialist Dr. Quitkin is the 4th surgeon in New Hampshire, and the only one in the Portsmouth region, to offer Carpal Tunnel Release with Real-time Ultrasound Guidance.

We sat down for a Q&A with Atlantic Orthopaedics’ Hand & Wrist specialist Dr. Quitkin to learn more about this procedure.

Q: How does this procedure benefit your patients?

A: Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common peripheral nerve compression syndrome. It affects millions of people, with hundreds of thousands of new cases developing annually. In some cases, symptoms can be managed conservatively with splinting and activity modification. For patients whose symptoms cannot be adequately controlled with non-surgical treatment, carpal tunnel release offers lasting relief of symptoms. The standard mini-open carpal tunnel release, which I have done for more than 20 years, is an excellent operation that solves the problem of carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s only drawback is the palmar incision through which the procedure is performed. This incision leaves a scar in the palm that is initially firm and tender. While the scar eventually softens and the discomfort associated with it recedes, the scar symptoms may take weeks to as long as months to completely resolve. Carpal tunnel release with ultrasound guidance allows us to move the incision from the palm, where the tissue is thick and prone to developing stiff, tender scars, to the distal forearm, where the tissue is much thinner and more pliable. Scars in this area tend to heal very quickly and are minimally symptomatic. This effectively solves the only problem with the mini-open carpal tunnel release. The improvement in the carpal tunnel symptoms is the same, and the recovery is faster and less painful.

Q: Who is a good candidate for the procedure?

A: Most people are good candidates for the procedure. Prior to surgery, patients are evaluated with an ultrasound examination in the office to be certain they are good candidates for the procedure. The only contraindications are significant anatomic variations within the carpal canal or inability to adequately visualize the carpal tunnel under ultrasound.

Q: Where can a patient have this procedure performed?

A: Currently, carpal tunnel release with ultrasound guidance is being performed at NECOS. And, we are awaiting approval to begin doing cases at York Hospital as well.

Q: Tell us about a success story!

A: For most of my career, I have declined to do bilateral carpal tunnel releases on the same day, because the timing of palmar scar healing was sufficiently unpredictable that tying up both hands simultaneously could put patients in a very difficult position. With the ultrasound-guided technique, the recovery is sufficiently predictable and sufficiently quick that releasing both carpal tunnels on the same day is now feasible. Recently, a woman in her forties was having disruptive carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in both hands. She has a seasonal job, and was very concerned about missing time during her busy season. With the ultrasound-guided technique, we were able to treat both hands on the same day and have her symptom-free for the start of her season a couple of weeks later!

Q: Is there anything else you’d like patients to know?

A: The use of ultrasound-guidance solves the only problem with an otherwise great procedure. This is a big step forward in hand surgery.

Carpal tunnel release with ultrasound guidance is a safe, effective, minimally invasive alternative to traditional CTR surgery. Its advantages include real-time visualization during the procedure, lower risk of complications, and shorter recovery time. If you’re experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel, schedule an appointment to find out if carpal tunnel release with ultrasound guidance is right for you, so you can get back to doing what you love.

NH Magazine Announces 2023 Top Docs

Each year, over 3,000 licensed New Hampshire physicians nominate their peers for the opportunity to receive the honor of ‘Top Doctor.’ Those named Top Doctors received the greatest number of recommendations within 55+ specialties, and the results are in! We think all of our docs are top, but this year, eight of our physicians were voted ‘Top Doctor,’ including:

Glen Crawford, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
Robert Eberhart, MD* – Top Doctor for Hand Surgery
Andrew McMahon, DO – Top Doctor for Sports Medicine
Mayo Noerdlinger, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
H. Matthew Quitkin, MD – Top Doctor for Hand Surgery
Akhilesh Sastry, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
William Sutherland, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
Tyler Welch, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery

Congratulations to all the 2023 Top Doctors!

Learn more about our providers in Portsmouth, NH and York, ME HERE. Or click HERE to make an appointment with our orthopaedic and sports medicine team.

*As of January 1, 2023 Dr. Robert Eberhart officially retired.

2022 Top Docs

Each year, over 3,000 licensed New Hampshire physicians nominate their peers for the opportunity to receive the honor of ‘Top Doctor.’ Those named Top Doctors received the greatest number of recommendations within 55+ specialties, and the results are in! We think all of our docs are top, but this year, seven of our physicians were voted ‘Top Doctor,’ including:
(Pictured below from left to right)

Glen Crawford, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
Robert Eberhart, MD – Top Doctor for Hand Surgery
Andy McMahon, DO – Top Doctor for Sports Medicine
Mayo Noerdlinger, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
H. Matthew Quitkin, MD – Top Doctor for Hand Surgery
Akhilesh Sastry, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery
William Sutherland, MD – Top Doctor for Orthopaedic Surgery

Congratulations to all the 2022 Top Doctors!

Learn more about our providers in Portsmouth, NH and York, ME HERE. Or click HERE to make an appointment with our orthopaedic and sports medicine team.

What IS Pain Management?

Pain management providers see patients who are experiencing pain in the lower back, knee, head, hip, or neck, and who could be suffering from common conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraines, sciatica, and much more. But what exactly is “pain management”?

We sat down with our board-certified interventional pain management provider, Dr. Andrew Lehn to ask him a few questions about his specialty: pain management.

Q. What is the most common reason patients come to see you?

A. I treat pain from head to toe but low back pain is the most common complaint. It is estimated that up to 80% of people will have significant low back pain at some point in their lives!

Q. What is pain management, in your professional opinion?

A. Pain management is restoration. Pain means something is not functioning correctly. My goal is to try and figure out the source of pain and direct treatment to that location. Some conditions require surgery to correct but many things can improve by decreasing inflammation and facilitating healing. My goal is to restore someone back to how they felt before the pain started.

Q. What advice would you give a friend or a loved one if they are experiencing back or joint pain?

A. Exercise! Most painful conditions will improve with time. The goal is to strengthen the muscles and joints around a painful area so hopefully the pain does not increase. I tell people to think about joint pain like you would think about your heart. Imagine what your cardiologist would tell you: exercise, lose weight, eat healthy, decrease stress, prioritize good sleep. All these things will help your pain as well.

Q. Can you share a patient success story?

A. Recently, I had an elderly patient who was experiencing significant low back and buttock pain. She was frustrated because she was having difficulty doing her exercises and could not participate in physical therapy. Her Lumbar MRI had some degenerative issues and spinal narrowing but nothing too specific for the pain she was experiencing. She had pain around her Sacroiliac joint and her pain worsened with manipulation of the joint. I decided to inject her SI joint and she came back with significant relief. While her pain was not entirely gone, she felt that she could now do her exercises and return to physical therapy. Ultimately, that is the goal! I work alongside my patients to help get them going again and then they are better able to rehabilitate their injury and get back to functioning again.

Pain management works best when the patient and doctor work together for the best solutions.

If you’re experiencing pain of any kind, talk to Dr. Lehn today to see how he can help you overcome your pain issues and get back to living a fuller, pain-free life.

Schedule a consultation HERE or give us a call, 603-431-1121.