Pain that starts in the lower back and radiates down the back of the leg is what is commonly referred to as sciatica. The pain follows the path of the sciatic nerve down the leg which means that typically, only one side of the body is affected. The sensation that those with sciatica experience varies from one person to the …
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for a Herniated Disc
The spine consists of 26 bones called vertebrae and between them are cushion-like pads called “intervertebral discs”. The discs serve as shock absorbers for the vertebrae and help provide stability to the spine. When one of these intervertebral discs loses its normal shape or consistency and begins to bulge into the spinal canal, it is referred to as a bulging …
What’s Causing the Pain in My Knee?
Knee pain shows no preference in a person’s age or who it affects. People of all age ranges can experience mild to severe discomfort in their knees and it is the most common orthopedic complaint that patients bring to their doctors. The real question is, why is this pain happening? Discomfort in the knees can come from a variety of …
Everything You Need to Know About Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common diagnosis for those experiencing heel pain, with almost 2 million people seeking treatment for this condition each year according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs through the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. A stabbing pain …
Signs & Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
3 million Americans are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome each year making it a very common medical condition. It all begins with the notorious tingling sensation in the hand. Therefore, seeking medical advice from an orthopedic specialist sooner rather than later is crucial. Carpal Tunnel Basics. The carpal tunnel is located on the palm side of the hand and provides …
What is a Torn Rotator Cuff Injury?
To understand what a rotator cuff injury is, you must first understand the rotator cuff itself. The rotator cuff comprises four muscles and tendons that help stabilize the shoulder while also helping to move the arm. It is a crucial component in being able to lift your arm and reach upward. The rotator cuff is a commonly injured area, with …
Three Common Reasons for Knee Pain and How to Fix Them
Knee pain is something that affects around one in four Americans. Whether you have experienced an acute injury or find yourself with chronic pain, your quality of life can be seriously altered. The knee is a complicated joint with several muscles and ligaments throughout it, and therefore it can be hard to pinpoint the reason behind your pain. We have …
Dr. Timothy Bonatus of Northern Arizona Orthopaedics Retires After 29 Years
Flagstaff, AZ (December 20, 2021) – After 33 years as a physician, 29 serving the Flagstaff community and 25 years as President of Northern Arizona Orthopaedics, Dr. Timothy Bonatus has announced he will retire at the end of 2021. Dr. Bonatus came to Flagstaff in 1993, having served in the first Gulf War and completing a fellowship in Orthopaedic Trauma …
Is Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery right for me?
By Cody Martin, MD I’ve heard about robotic joint replacement surgery – what is it? Robotic joint replacement surgery uses a state-of-the-art machine (a robot) to assist the surgeon in precise planning of surgery and specifically, guiding delicate bone cuts and placement of implants. There are different types of robots; some devices resemble an arm or have a handpiece; others …
Lumbar Decompression
“Is Lumbar Decompression Surgery right for me?” The consideration for lumbar decompression surgery first begins with “why” it should be considered in the first place. One reason is that it is absolutely necessary, or things will get worse if the procedure is not performed. This would be for conditions such as infections in the spine, blood clots on the …