Medscape Orthopaedics Headlines

Chronic Pain Linked to Risk for Falls in Older Adults

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST

A study shows that chronic pain in 1 or more locations that is severe or that interferes with daily activities is associated with a greater risk for falls in older adults.

New Algorithm Predicts Osteoporotic Fractures

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:01:42 EST

A new risk prediction algorithm for hip and other fractures from osteoporosis is relatively easy to use and can help primary care clinicians identify patients at high risk.

Evaluating Foot Pain in Elderly Patients

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:37:23 EST

Can you diagnose causes of foot pain? The next review in this important series on geriatric assessment.

Restoration of Strength Despite Low Stress and Abnormal Imaging Result after Achilles Injury

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST

Investigators sought to determine the usefulness of clinical imaging in predicting the mechanical properties of rabbit Achilles tendons after acute injury.

Pain Often First Sign of Knee Osteoarthritis

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:33:42 EST

A 12-year study in middle-aged adults suggests that knee pain is frequently the first sign of knee osteoarthritis.

Sen Grassley Questions Top Medical Schools About Ghostwriting

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:48:39 EST

As part of his mission to see more financial transparency in medicine, Sen Grassley has asked eight top US medical schools about their policies on ghostwriting.

Low Back Pain: Evaluating Presenting Symptoms in Elderly Patients

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:08:27 EST

This review launches a new series on the evaluation of presenting symptoms in geriatric patients.

Unique Malpractice Risks of Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:06:52 EST

More physicians are setting up ambulatory surgery centers, but there are many malpractice risks that come with having a center. Here is what to watch out for.

House Passes Medicare SGR Fix

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:11:22 EST

The House passed a bill that would rewrite the controversial sustainable growth rate formula and eliminate a 21.2% Medicare pay cut for physicians scheduled for 2010.

First Orthopaedic Surgeon in Space to Use His Medical Skills on Mission

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:10:31 EST

Five million miles from home, Dr. Robert Satcher completed his first space walk and "tweets" while in orbit.

Assessment of the Neck and Lymph Nodes in the Elderly Patient

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:52:22 EST

Next in this important series on geriatric assessment: examining the neck and lymph nodes.

New Senate Healthcare Reform Bill Features Public Option With Opt-Out

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:03:45 EST

The Senate bill would cost $849 billion through 2019, but it would ultimately shave $127 billion off the federal deficit while reducing the number of uninsured by 31 million people.

The Legal Pitfalls in Prescribing Opioids

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:01:22 EST

Should you worry when prescribing opioids that the drugs might end up on the street? How can you protect yourself? Review the legal nuts and bolts of opioid prescribing.

Part 2: The Case of the Emergency Room Physician Who Burned Out: Diagnosing and Treating His Substance Abuse

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:17:28 EST

In part 2 of the new series on the Impaired Physician, substance abuse develops in Dr. X. Is it now time to turn him in?

What Should Patients Do With Unused Narcotics?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:07:43 EST

Clinicians often tell patients to save their remaining narcotics for "next time." According to guidelines, this may not be the best advice.

Geriatric Physical Diagnosis: The Upper Extremities

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:22:30 EST

An essential guide for assessing the chest and arms when performing a physical examination in the elderly patient.

Surgical Masks vs N95 Respirators: Research and Practice

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:36:50 EST

A well-designed study examines the efficacy of surgical masks in protecting healthcare workers against influenza. William R. Jarvis, MD, comments in this video blog.