Coronavirus put life on hold for millions of people around the world.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/06/2020 -- COVID-19 did not stop the need for essential medical services, though, as thousands of people still need surgery and other medical care. Spine & Orthopedic Specialist continues to remain open, and is taking extra safety precautions to keep all of our patients safe and healthy. We are here to guide you through the journey to your pain-free life, even in these challenging and unusual times.

Spine & Orthopedic Specialist adheres to guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for outpatient and ambulatory care settings.

These guidelines aim to minimize the risk of coronavirus infection in patients and healthcare professionals, identify patients who may have COVID-19, help reduce some of the burden COVID-19 has on hospital workers, and maximize the use of facemasks and other personal protective equipment (PPE).

According to the CDC guidelines, Spine & Orthopedic Specialist is taking every precaution necessary for our patients.

We are open and providing treatment for those patients who need orthopedic care. The healthcare professionals at Spine & Orthopedic Specialist have remained in contact with our patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Surgical procedures have not halted, and we continue booking appointments daily.

We take extra steps to screen our patients for signs of infection, such as asking about their recent health history, noting possible exposure to anyone with COVID-19. Spine & Orthopedic Specialist has rearranged its waiting room to help patients maintain social distancing, placed hand sanitizer in readily-accessible areas.

Spine & Orthopedic Specialist encourages its staff to monitor themselves for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 before reporting for work each day.

We also require our staff to stay home if they are sick, as the health and wellness of our community – and every patient we see – is of utmost importance.

Spine & Orthopedic Specialist is here to guide you through the journey to your pain-free life, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact us today.

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A MARCH 23, 2020 OKLAHOMA NEWS 9 REPORT DETAILED ADDITIONAL CLOSURES OF BUSINESSES THROUGHOUT THE TULSA AREA AS A RESULT OF COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS).

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/25/2020 -- Office workers and school students throughout the area are adjusting to working online. Unfortunately, at home work spaces can create challenges. Employers and school administrators make a concerted effort to provide desks, chairs, and other types of furnishings that are ergonomically correct. This helps to reduce the risk of orthopedic injuries. Those new to working at home will need to make some adjustments to prevent painful and potentially serious conditions.

WORK AT HOME INJURIES

Rather than spending eight hours a day in an office or classroom, the coronavirus may have you setting up shop in your home. For some, at home offices and desks can provide some semblance of normalcy in conducting online activities. Others may be working on couches, recliners, or even in bed. "People are now conducting their daily business while sitting in spots usually reserved for leisure activities. This increases the risk of injuries," says Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa. "Looking at computer screens from certain angles and sitting without proper support can do damage to muscles, tendons, discs, and vertebrae in the back and neck."

HOME OFFICE ERGONOMICS

People who worked from home prior to the pandemic know the importance of good ergonomics. While sudden closures may not have allowed you the time to set up a home office properly, there are still steps you can take to protect yourself. Working From Home Insider recommends the following:

Make sure your workspace has proper lighting;
Choose a seat that provides good support and allows you to keep both feet flat on the ground.

If you have a desk, make sure is the proper height to avoid having to bend over the keyboard;

Keep your computer screen at least 20 inches away and use pillows, books, or other items to prop it up;
Take regular breaks to ensure proper circulation.

"TAKING THE TIME NOW TO ADDRESS HOME WORKPLACE ISSUES CAN HELP TO PREVENT INJURIES AND REDUCE THE RISK THAT CHRONIC CONDITIONS WILL DEVELOP," SAYS DR. SPARKS.

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Tulsa students are urged to use caution over spring break. Car accidents, swimming pool accidents, falls, and overuse can all result in serious orthopedic injuries. If injuries do occur, seek treatment immediately. Not doing so could result in chronic pain and potentially permanent disabilities.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/24/2020 -- On March 10, 2020, the University of Tulsa announced that in light of the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19), it would begin holding classes online. Colleges throughout the state and across the country are doing the same to protect students and faculty. The decision does not impact spring break at UT, which is scheduled for March 15 through 19. It is also not likely to change the plans many students have in place for traveling over the holiday.

Spring break trips are a rite of passage for college students, allowing them to blow off steam before the final rush of the semester. Unfortunately, the types of activities they often engage in during this time puts them at an increased risk for accidental injuries.

Spring Break Risks
Handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and taking other steps to avoid exposure to the coronavirus is at the top of the list for spring breakers in 2020. However, getting sick is not the only risk they face. Accidental injuries are a major concern. "Car accidents, swimming pool accidents, falls, and overuse injuries are common hazards for spring breakers," says Dr. Kris Parchuri of Spine and Orthopedic Specialists In Tulsa . "These can result in broken bones, muscle or tendon sprains, and other types of orthopedic injuries."

Spring breakers need to use extra caution both when traveling and engaging in various activities at their destination. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), factors that make spring break accidents more likely include:

- Alcohol use: There is a strong tendency for young people to overindulge in drinking during spring break trips.

- Excessive fatigue: Traveling and non-stop partying once they reach their destination can result in excessive fatigue, making accidents more likely to happen.

- Increased activity: Sudden increases in activity makes spring breakers more vulnerable to injuries.

- Lack of precaution: Spring breakers tend to throw caution to the wind, behaving recklessly and disregarding potential dangers.

Dr. Parchuri urges Tulsa spring breakers to be cautious in choosing activities and to seek treatment immediately if accidental injuries do occur. "Delaying treatment for orthopedic injuries can cause your condition to worsen," he warns. "It also increases the risks of chronic pain and potential permanent disabilities."

The office of Dr. Parchuri and his team bring you a committed and dedicated Tulsa doctor who specializes in Orthopedic spine surgery and pain management.

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The booming tech industry in Tulsa means greater opportunities for residents but puts workers at risk. Sitting at a desk and looking at computer screens all day puts pressure on the back and neck.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/26/2020 -- Tulsa was recently named as one of the best cities for small businesses. According to a February 23, 2020 Fox 23 News report, a program drawing remote workers to the area is partly responsible. While tech jobs mean a brighter financial outlook for residents, they also the risk of back and neck pain.

Tech Workers at Increased Risk For Back and Neck Pain

Tulsa has transformed into a hub for IT businesses over the last decade and a new program is drawing even more companies and residents to the area. Tulsa Remote offers workers a $10,000 grant and other benefits for relocating here. The same day the city was named one of the best for small businesses, Tulsa World reported that Flipcause, a major software developer based in California, will be using our area as a hub. It will rely on Tulsa Remote to meet staffing needs.

While this is good news for the tech community, underlying issues on the job threaten the health of workers. "Poor desk posture and the impact of looking at a computer screen all day have put tech workers at risk for orthopedic issues," says Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa . "Chronic back and neck pain is an increasingly common problem."

Back and Neck Issues Among IT Workers

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns sitting and staring at a computer screen for long hours puts tech workers at higher risk for neck and shoulder issues. These can have major impacts on other areas of the spine. Among the most common problems include:

Posterior cervical dorsal syndrome, or 'computer back', which causes curving of the spine;

Cervical kyphosis, or 'tech neck', which causes the neck to be abnormally straight, losing its natural curve;

Lumbar strains and sprains, impacting muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments;
Pressure on the vertebrae, resulting in bulging or herniated discs.

"For tech workers, workplace ergonomics play a major role in preventing back and neck pain," says Dr. Sparks. "If you are currently suffering pain or discomfort, seek medical care immediately. Delaying treatment could result in permanent disabilities."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

A recent meeting held by the Tulsa Urban and Economic Development Committee addressed issues pertaining to electric scooter injuries.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/11/2020 -- The motorized vehicles are popular here and in cities across the country. However, there are increasing concerns about safety risks and injuries associated with e-scooter accidents. According to an October 28, 2019 report by Tulsa's News On 6, the council approved new rules setting limits on their use with the goal of protecting riders and other road users. 

Concerns About E-Scooter Safety
A consumer bulletin sent by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready on October 18, 2019 warned about the serious injury risks posed by electric scooters, which are available for rent in Tulsa and other cities throughout the state. Now that cooler fall temperatures have arrived, the bulletin advises that more people are likely to take advantage of local e-scooter rentals. However, they warn riders to be aware of the safety risks. 

The bulletin cites studies claiming nearly ten people have been killed in e-scooter accidents across the country while thousands more users suffer serious and potentially debilitating injuries. Unfortunately, it is not only riders who face these risks. "E-scooter accidents can result in broken bones, dislocated joints, and damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments," warns Dr. Kris Parchuri of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa. "These injuries can end up causing ongoing health issues if not treated properly and can impact riders as well as pedestrians and other motorists involved in e-scooter accidents." 

New Ordinances and Insurance Concerns Add to Scooter Controversy
To reduce the risk of e-scooter accidents and injuries, Tulsa council members recently approved two new ordinances. The first limits areas where e-scooters may be used. The motorized vehicles are now prohibited from being driven on sidewalks or on certain busy streets. The second prohibits more than one user from being on an e-scooter at any given time. "These ordinances seem designed to both reduce the likelihood of e-scooter accidents and the severity of injuries in the event one does occur, " says Dr. Parchuri. 

Unfortunately, a third ordinance limiting the use of e-scooters to people over 16 was defeated due to the impacts it would have likely had on young bicyclists.

Parents will need to be particularly cautious in allowing young people to ride e-scooters. The Oklahoma Department of Insurance warns that it is also important to be aware that insurance may not cover the medical expenses or other costs involved when these types of accidents or injuries happen. Regardless of medical coverage, Dr. Parchuri warns accident victims to seek treatment immediately for e-scooter injuries. "Not getting prompt medical care, even if your injuries appear minor, could  cause complications and may endanger your overall health."

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Over the Labor Day holiday and throughout the month of September, public safety officials are urging motorists to be aware of the dangers of drunk driving and other reckless behaviors. Follow traffic rules and regulations can help to protect you, your passengers, and others on the road. When crashes do occur, serious back and neck injuries can result. Without proper treatment, these can cause chronic pain and lingering disabilities.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/09/2019 -- A public safety campaign by the Tulsa Police Department is focused on preventing car accidents and the potentially serious injuries that can result. Among the most common types of injuries suffered in a crash are those impacting the back and neck. Taking some simple precautions can help minimize the risks.

Keeping Tulsa Roads Safe

According to the Tulsa Department of Health, the end of summer weekend is one of the busiest times for drunk driving-related crashes. Driving under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substance is one of the leading causes of car accidents in our area and throughout the state. When crashes do occur, they often leave victims suffering whiplash and other potentially debilitating back and spine injuries.

Every year during the weeks before and after the Labor Day holiday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) partners with local and state law enforcement officials in keeping drunk drivers off the roads. The holiday traditionally has one of the highest rates for crashes and collisions. In nearly half of these cases, alcohol is a contributing factor. In addition to targeting drivers suspected of DUI, Tulsa law enforcement officers will also be on the alert for people engaged in speeding, running red lights, distracted driving, and other potentially dangerous behaviors.

Back and Neck Injuries Caused by Car Accidents

Officials urge all drivers to follow traffic rules and regulations while using defensive driving skills behind the wheel. When car accidents do occur, victims should make a point of getting immediate medical care. Even relatively minor car accidents can leave victims suffering serious back and neck injuries.

"Any type of sudden jolt or blow, such as often occurs in a car crash, can cause serious damage to the bones, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues that make up the spine," says Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa. "Even when the victim experiences no immediate symptoms, back and neck injuries may exist and become more painful over time."

To prevent impacts that could affect your health and financial security for years to come, seek help from an experienced medical provider and adhere to their instructions regarding diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow up care. Not doing so could cause potentially serious complications. "Without proper medical treatment, whiplash, pulled muscles, herniated discs, and other types of back injuries can easily end up resulting in chronic pain and long term disabilities," says Dr. Sparks.

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Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/13/2019 -- Staying active is a proven way to protect your health. Regular exercise and hobbies such as walking or bicycling increase flexibility and keep muscles strong. An April 10, 2019 report by Science Daily indicates regular activity can also protect you if spinal injuries occur. According to a team of researchers, routine exercise can help to 'prime' nerve cells. This makes it easier for the damaged nerves to regenerate themselves.

HEALING AFTER SPINE INJURIES
The spinal cord is comprised of a collection of nerves, which run from the brain throughout the length of your back. These nerves carry signals to and from the brain to your arms, legs, and other body parts. They also control body functions, such as breathing and respiration. "There are 31 different pairs of nerves running through the spinal cord," states Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa. "Damage to any of these nerves can have a profound effect on patients."

SPINAL CORD NERVES CAN GET DAMAGED DUE TO ACCIDENTAL INJURIES, OVERUSE, AND CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS.

This impacts mobility and causes pain throughout the body. The quicker the nerves can regenerate, the sooner the patient recovers. Researchers claim that stimulating this regeneration is one of the biggest challenges in treatment. Physical therapy has long played a key role in the recovery process. However, this new evidence indicates that the person's activity level prior to the injury is an important factor as well. The more the spinal nerves stimulation through exercise and other daily activities, the quicker the nerves recover when an injury happens. "When combined with other non-invasive treatments, physical therapy helps patients regain strength and flexibility," says Dr. Sparks. "It makes sense that being active prior to an injury would give you an advantage."

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A major pharmaceutical company recently announced plans to launch an addiction treatment center in Tulsa as part of an agreement with the state to help those suffering from opioid pain medication dependency.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/08/2019 -- Purdue Pharma L.P. will establish the National Center for Addiction Studies and Treatment at Oklahoma State University (OSU). Funding will be provided by the pharmaceutical giant as part of a settlement for the role it played in contributing to the opioid crisis. The company's agreement with Oklahoma also includes payment of $12.5 million to be divided between individual cities and counties to address issues related to opioid use within the local community while another $60 million will be provided to the state as reimbursement for legal costs and fees.

Finding Alternatives to Opioid Use for Chronic Pain Sufferers

Purdue Pharma has taken heat by the medical community and by government officials over the role it played in contributing to the existing opioid crisis. The Sackler family, which for two generations has owned and operated the company, is accused of recklessly pushing the highly addictive opioid medication OxyContin. As a result, the company and individual family members have found themselves at the center of numerous lawsuits by people suffering from addiction and the loved ones of those who overdosed.

"People are often prescribed OxyContin and other types of powerful pain medications as a way of dealing with injuries, illnesses, and chronic health conditions," says Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine and Orthopedic Specialists in Tulsa. "Unfortunately, these medications are highly addictive and once a patient starts using them, they may find themselves unable to stop." Sparks says that while funding addiction treatment is important, a better and more permanent solution is addressing the causes of pain. "Dealing with underlying health issues through advanced orthopedic care, making healthy lifestyle changes, and seeking alternative techniques for dealing with discomfort can all help to reduce the risk of dependence on dangerous opioids."

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A New Report Cites Better Diagnostic Testing Procedures and The Ongoing Health Care Needs of an Aging Population as Fueling the Demand for Spinal Fusion Surgery Throughout the United States.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/27/2019 -- In Oklahoma nearly 20 percent of the population is over the age of 60 and roughly 40 percent of these suffer from chronic pain and limited mobility issues.

ADDRESSING BACK AND NECK PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH AGING

The spine contains numerous bones and soft tissues. All of which can begin to deteriorate as you age. According to Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa, "Normal wear and tear combined with accidental injuries and chronic health conditions often leave patients over the age of 60 suffering with limited mobility and chronic pain."

FORTUNATELY, ADVANCES IN DIAGNOSTIC TESTING ARE BETTER ABLE TO PINPOINT THE UNDERLYING CAUSES OF PAIN AND DISCOMFORT.

This includes the lumbar and cervical regions so that they can be effectively treated by health care professionals. Once conditions commonly suffered by older adults, such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis, are identified through x-rays, computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); spinal fusion surgery can then repair the damage.

"As a minimally invasive procedure, spinal fusion surgery often allows patients to return home the same day. Equally important, they can also resume normal activities in as little as a week," says Dr. Sparks. This is good news for people in Tulsa and throughout Oklahoma. According to statistics from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS); roughly 20 percent of the states nearly four million residents are over the age of 60. Of these, almost 40 percent report experiencing physical disabilities that limit their mobility. More effective diagnosis of these conditions, which often involve the back and neck region; will fuel the demand for spinal fusion surgery in the years to come.

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A New Study Reports That Walking a Dog Provides Numerous Health Benefits for Older Adults.

Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/27/2019 -- The number of bone breaks associated with the activity has more than doubled over the past ten years. According to a report published in the Journal of American Medicine (JAMA) on March 6, 2019; researchers sought to uncover some of the most common reasons for an increase of bone breaks and other orthopedic injuries among older adults. These types of injuries are often listed as one of the leading causes of emergency room visits among adults aged 65 and over.

In surveying records from hospital emergency rooms throughout the United States; researchers were surprised to find that dog walking was one of the activities that was most often to blame. Among the most serious injuries sustained by the pulling and unexpected twists or turns. The falls that can occur while walking a leashed dog include foot, hip, ankle, and upper arm fractures. Along with pulled or torn muscles and ligaments.

Orthopedic Injuries Problematic Among Older Adults

Orthopedic injuries require immediate medical attention at any age. However, they can be particularly problematic among older adults. Senior authors of the study made a statement during their interview on March 12, 2019 by Public Radio Tulsa. They stated that broken bones in general take longer to heal when they happen to people who are 65 and older. When the injury impacts the feet or hips; it can contribute to long-term disabilities and an overall decline in health.
 
According to Dr. Kris Parchuri of Spine & Orthopedic Specialists Tulsa; "Not getting proper medical care and refusing to use a cane or a walker to aid in mobility in the aftermath of these injuries increases the risks of doing permanent damage." He claims that it is important to be aware that even if you are dealing with a pulled muscle and not an actual break; the affected area is likely to still be vulnerable for months after.

This is not to say that older adults should give up dog walking or abandon other types of physical activity.

"The benefits of remaining active as you age far outweigh the risks," says Dr. Parchuri. "However, it is important for older patients to take some precautions." He recommends wearing the proper shoes. Along with walking on only cleared trails and sidewalks. As well as investing in dog obedience courses to eliminate unwanted behaviors; such as pulling. He also adds that patients of all ages should be sure to clear it with their doctor first before resuming any activities in the aftermath of an orthopedic injury. 

Contact Tulsa Orthopedic Specialist today to discuss your case.

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