OrthoEducation

Ouch on the Inside: Understanding MCL Sprains of the Knee breaks down one of the most common knee injuries seen in sports and everyday activity. In this episode, we explain what the medial collateral ligament (MCL) does, how it helps stabilize the inner side of the knee, and why it is often injured when the knee is hit from the outside or twisted awkwardly. We walk through common symptoms such as pain and swelling along the inside of the knee, how doctors diagnose MCL injuries using physical exam and imaging, and why X-rays and MRI may be helpful in...

Back Under Pressure: Osteoporosis and Compression Fractures explores one of the most common—and often misunderstood—spine injuries affecting older adults. In this episode, we break down what spinal compression fractures are, how osteoporosis weakens bone and allows vertebrae to collapse under everyday pressure, and why many people may have fractures without even knowing it. We discuss common symptoms like sudden back pain, height loss, and a hunched posture, how these fractures are diagnosed with imaging, and what treatment options may help—from pain control and physical therapy to bracing and, in select cases, minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty. We als...

In this episode, we take a clear, practical look at Dupuytren’s contracture—a common hand condition that can cause fingers to gradually bend toward the palm and make everyday tasks more difficult. We break down what Dupuytren’s contracture is, who is most likely to develop it, and how it typically progresses over time. You’ll learn how doctors diagnose the condition, including simple exam findings like the tabletop test, and why many people notice firm cords or nodules in the palm long before finger motion becomes limited.

We also explore treatment options, from careful observation and spli...

Breaking the Shin: Understanding Tibial Shaft Fractures explores one of the most common serious injuries to the lower leg—the fracture of the tibial shaft, or shinbone. In this episode, we explain how these fractures happen, from high-energy injuries like car crashes and sports trauma to lower-energy falls, especially in older adults. We walk through how tibial shaft fractures are diagnosed, the different types of breaks, and why some fractures can be treated with casting while others require surgery, such as intramedullary nailing.

The episode also covers what recovery really looks like, including healing timelines, rehabilitation, and po...

Out of Joint: A Deep Dive into Shoulder Instability breaks down why the shoulder can feel loose, slip, or even pop out of place—and what can be done about it. Because the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, it is also one of the easiest to injure, especially after a dislocation, repetitive overhead activity, or in people with naturally flexible joints.

In this episode, we explain what shoulder (glenohumeral) instability is, how it develops, and the common symptoms people experience, such as pain, weakness, and a feeling that the shoulder may “give out.” We als...

Why Your Heel Hurts: A Deep Dive into Plantar Fasciitis explores the most common cause of heel pain—and why those first steps in the morning can be so painful. In this episode, we break down what plantar fasciitis is, where the pain comes from, and why everyday activities like standing, walking, or running can keep symptoms coming back.

Using information from the Foot Education section of the free, peer-reviewed, non-profit website OrthoEducation (available at OrthoEducation.com), we explain how micro-tearing of the plantar fascia leads to inflammation and heel pain, who is most at risk, and ho...

Grip, Pinch, Pain: A Deep Dive into Thumb Arthritis takes listeners inside one of the most common—and often misunderstood—causes of hand pain: thumb arthritis, also known as CMC arthritis or basal joint arthritis. In this episode, we break down what happens when the cartilage at the base of the thumb wears away, why this joint is so essential for gripping and pinching, and why arthritis in this area is especially common in women over 40.

Drawing from expert-reviewed information on the free, peer-reviewed website of the non-profit OrthoEducation (available at OrthoEducation.com), we explore how thumb arth...

Are you an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just trying to understand that sudden, sharp pain in the back of your thigh? Then join us for Pulled Hamstrings: The Back of the Leg Breakdown, the podcast that takes the mystery out of one of the most common sports injuries.We dive deep into the anatomy of the hamstring muscles, explaining exactly how a pulled hamstring happens—from mild Grade 1 strains to severe Grade 3 tears and the serious avulsion injury. Learn about the key signs and symptoms, how doctors diagnose the injury, and the crucial stages of rehabilitation. We break do...

Ever taken a hard hit to the leg that left you limping, bruised, and wondering what exactly just happened? In this episode, Battered but Not Broken: Understanding Thigh Contusions, we dive into the science and recovery behind one of the most common sports injuries — the thigh contusion, or “charley horse.” You’ll learn what actually happens when muscle tissue gets crushed against bone, why bruising changes color over time, and how athletes can safely recover without long-term complications.

We’ll also explore how doctors diagnose the severity of these deep muscle bruises, when rest and rehabilitation are enough, an...

Why do so many pitchers face the dreaded “Thrower’s Elbow”? In this episode, The Thrower’s Curse: Inside Tommy John Surgery, we take a deep dive into one of the most well-known injuries in sports — the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear — and the groundbreaking surgery that changed the game. You’ll learn how this crucial ligament in the elbow is injured, how doctors diagnose and treat it, and why Tommy John surgery has given countless athletes a second chance at success.

From overuse on the mound to cutting-edge surgical reconstruction and year-long rehabilitation, this episode unpacks the science, t...

Do your legs ache or feel numb when you stand or walk, but get better when you sit or lean forward? You might be experiencing lumbar spinal stenosis — a condition where the lower spinal canal narrows and puts pressure on the nerves. In this episode, we break down what lumbar spinal stenosis is, why it happens, and who’s most likely to develop it. You’ll learn how doctors diagnose it, the difference between conservative and surgical treatments, and why simple movements like bending forward can bring relief.

Join us as we explore the causes, symptoms, and treatm...

Why does your shoulder suddenly feel stiff and painful, like it’s stuck in place? In this episode, Frozen Shoulder Explained: Breaking Free from Shoulder Stiffness, we uncover what really happens when the shoulder “freezes.” Learn how adhesive capsulitis develops, why it can take months to recover, and what treatments truly help. We’ll explain the three stages of frozen shoulder—freezing, frozen, and thawing—and how physical therapy, stretching, and patience can gradually restore motion. You’ll also hear how doctors diagnose the condition, when injections or surgery might be used, and what most people can expect for long-term reco...

Why does the front of your knee ache when you run, climb stairs, or sit too long? In this episode of Inside the Kneecap: Unpacking Anterior Knee Pain, we break down what’s really going on when the front of your knee starts to hurt. From patellofemoral pain syndrome—often called “runner’s knee”—to chondromalacia and other causes of anterior knee pain, we explore how these conditions develop, how they differ, and what you can do to find relief. Learn how doctors diagnose the problem, why physical therapy is often the key to recovery, and when surgery might actually be...

Ever felt your finger “lock” when you try to straighten it — almost like it’s stuck on a trigger? In this episode, we explore Trigger Finger, a common hand condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a clicking or snapping sensation when bending or straightening a finger. You’ll learn why this happens, who’s most at risk (hint: it’s more common in people who use their hands repetitively or have conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis), and how doctors diagnose and treat it.

From simple solutions like rest, splints, and anti-inflammatory medication to quick, effective surgical options — we’l...

Ever wonder why your ankle feels stiff, sore, or painful with every step? In this episode of The Ankle Arthritis Deep Dive: What Patients Need to Know, we explore one of the most underappreciated causes of chronic ankle pain—ankle arthritis.

Join us as we unpack what happens when the smooth cartilage of the ankle wears away, why past injuries can set the stage for arthritis, and how issues like misalignment, rheumatoid arthritis, or even gout can add to the problem. We’ll discuss what ankle arthritis looks like on X-rays, what symptoms to watch for, and—most i...

Shoulder pain can be confusing, and the rotator cuff is often at the center of it. In this episode, we break down the full spectrum of rotator cuff problems—from early irritation and inflammation, to tendonitis, acute tears, chronic degenerative damage, and finally, shoulder arthritis caused by longstanding tears. You’ll learn how these problems develop, the symptoms they cause, and how doctors approach treatment at each stage—whether that’s rest, physical therapy, injections, surgical repair, or even shoulder replacement in severe cases.

Our goal is to make sense of this complex topic in a way that’s c...

Wrist fractures—also called distal radius fractures—are among the most common broken bones, often happening when someone falls on an outstretched hand. But not all wrist fractures are the same. In this episode, we break down the different types, including Colles, Smith, Barton, and intra-articular fractures, and explain how doctors diagnose them, from the first exam to X-rays and sometimes CT scans. We’ll walk through treatment options, from simple casting and closed reduction to surgery with plates, screws, or pins when the break is more complex. Finally, we’ll explore what recovery looks like, why physical therapy matters...

Osteoporosis is often called the “silent bone thief” because it can weaken bones without obvious symptoms—until a fracture occurs. In this episode, we break down what osteoporosis is, why it develops, and who is most at risk. You’ll learn how bone density changes with age, how factors like menopause, family history, smoking, and vitamin D deficiency play a role, and why fractures of the wrist, hip, shoulder, and spine are the most common red flags.

We’ll also explain how doctors diagnose osteoporosis with bone density scans, the lifestyle changes that can help protect your bones, and...

Why does the strongest tendon in your body sometimes become your biggest weakness? In this episode, we dive into Achilles tendonitis, a painful condition that causes swelling and stiffness in the tendon at the back of your ankle. You’ll learn why it often strikes active people in their 30s and 40s, what puts you at risk, and how to spot the difference between classic (non-insertional) and insertional tendonitis. We’ll break down how doctors make the diagnosis, the role of tight calf muscles and activity changes, and—most importantly—what you can do to heal. From simple shoe modifica...

When the Collarbone Cracks dives into one of the most common broken bones: the clavicle, or collarbone. Whether from a hard fall, a sports collision, or an accident, this injury can leave patients with pain, swelling, and difficulty moving their arm. In this episode, we explore what a clavicle fracture is, why it happens, how doctors diagnose it, and the different treatment options—from simple slings and physical therapy to surgery with plates and screws. We’ll also discuss the recovery process, possible complications, and what most patients can expect long term.

All of the information in this...

Why is there a squishy bump on your wrist—and should you be worried? In this episode we uncover the mystery behind ganglion cysts of the wrist—those jelly-like lumps that seem to show up out of nowhere. Whether you're a gymnast, an office warrior, or just curious about that strange bump, this episode is for you.

We’ll break down what ganglion cysts are, why they form, how they’re diagnosed, and what to do if they’re painful or getting in the way. From simple observation to aspiration and surgery, we’ll cover the full spectrum of...

Why does a healthy spine start to curve during the teenage years—and what can be done about it?

In this episode, we break down Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis —a common condition where the spine curves sideways for reasons that aren’t fully understood. You’ll learn how scoliosis is diagnosed, the different types of spinal curves, and how doctors decide whether to monitor, brace, or operate. We’ll also explain why this condition often shows up during growth spurts and why girls are more commonly affected.

From Cobb angles to curve types, braces to back surgery—we...

Why does the outside of your hip ache when you lie on your side or go for a run? In this OrthoEducation podcast The Hip’s Outside Edge: The Trochanteric Bursitis Breakdown, we dive into the causes, symptoms, and treatments of trochanteric bursitis—a common source of outer hip pain, especially in women and older adults. Whether it's from repetitive motion, a tight IT band, or a direct hit to the hip, this condition can seriously cramp your stride. We’ll cover how it’s diagnosed, why surgery is rarely needed, and the best ways to calm that cranky bursa wi...

Ever twisted your knee and felt a sharp pain or a sudden "pop"? You might be dealing with a meniscal tear, one of the most common knee injuries. In this episode, we explore what happens when the knee’s shock absorbers—the menisci—get torn. We break down the different types of meniscal tears, how they’re diagnosed, and what treatment options are available, from rest and rehab to arthroscopic surgery.

Whether the tear is acute from a sudden sports injury or degenerative from years of wear and tear, we’ll guide you through how doctors assess the damage...

What really happens when your shoulder “pops out”? In this episode, we explore the world of acute shoulder dislocations—a painful but common injury, especially among athletes and active individuals. From how it happens (think: hard falls or awkward tackles) to how it’s diagnosed, treated, and rehabbed, we break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand and practical for patients, students, and curious minds alike.

You’ll learn what it means to suffer a traumatic shoulder dislocation, how doctors get it back in place (safely), when surgery is needed, and why younger people are m...

Why do your fingers tingle or go numb after typing or holding tools? In this episode, we take a deep dive into carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. You’ll learn how it develops, how it’s diagnosed, and the range of treatments—from wrist splints and activity changes to carpal tunnel release surgery.

This episode is based on trusted, peer-reviewed information from OrthoEducation.com—a free educational resource created by the non-profit OrthoEducation to help people better understand orthopedic conditions. Whether you're experiencing symptoms or just curious...

Whiplash—it’s more than just a dramatic movie title. In this episode of OrthoEducation, we break down the real story behind one of the most common (and commonly misunderstood) neck injuries: whiplash, also known as acute cervical strain. Whether you’ve been in a fender bender or just want to understand that sudden post-injury neck pain, this episode walks you through what actually happens in a whiplash injury, what symptoms to look out for, how it’s diagnosed, and—most importantly—how to treat it.

We’ll cover what tests are (and aren’t) needed, why rest is good but...

Is that bump on your big toe just a cosmetic issue—or something more? In this episode of FootEducation, we dive into the world of bunions—a common but often misunderstood foot condition. You’ll learn what bunions really are (hint: it’s more than just a bump), why they develop (no, it’s not just your shoes), and what treatment options actually work. From family history and bone alignment to bunion pads, shoe tips, and surgery do’s and don’ts—we cover it all in simple, clear language.

Whether you’re dealing with a painful bunion, wondering...

Foot pain slowing you down? In this episode of OrthoEducation, we’re diving into a tiny bone that can cause some big problems—your navicular. While not too common navicular stress fractures typically occur in runners, jumpers, and active folks. It is a sneaky injury that often starts with subtle pain and worsens if ignored. We’ll break down what the navicular bone is, why stress fractures happen, how to know if you have one, and what treatments—from rest to surgery—can get you back on your feet. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just someone curi...

OrthoEducation, a nonprofit dedicated to making orthopedic education clear and accessible – is your go-to guide for understanding hip fractures, one of the most serious and common injuries in older adults. Whether you or a loved one has experienced a fall, or you're just curious about what really happens when a hip breaks, this podcast will walk you through the essentials.

From types of hip fractures like femoral neck and intertrochanteric, to the warning signs, treatment options, and what to expect during recovery, we break down the complex world of hip injuries into everyday language. Learn who’s at r...

Have you noticed a strange bump on the back of your elbow? Don’t panic—it might just be olecranon bursitis! In this short, 8-minute episode from OrthoEducation, we break down everything you need to know about this common (but often misunderstood) elbow condition. Whether you bumped your elbow, leaned on it too long, or just woke up with some mystery swelling, we’ll help you understand what’s going on under the skin.

Learn what causes that telltale lump, how doctors diagnose it, and the simple treatments that usually get you back to normal—no surgery required i...

Got knee pain that flares up when you jump, run, or even just go down the stairs? You might be dealing with patellar tendonitis—aka “jumper’s knee.” In this episode of OrthoEducation, we break down this common overuse injury in a way that’s easy to understand and actually helpful. Learn what causes patellar tendonitis, how to recognize the signs, and what treatment options—from rest and rehab to advanced therapies—can get you back on your feet. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a high school athlete, or just curious about that nagging ache in your knee, this episode delive...

You’ve probably twisted an ankle—or know someone who has. But how serious is an ankle sprain, really? In this episode of OrthoEducation, we take a deep (and surprisingly fun) dive into one of the most common orthopedic injuries out there. Learn what actually happens when you sprain your ankle, the difference between mild and severe sprains, when to seek medical help, and how to recover properly to avoid long-term issues. Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or just accident-prone, this episode gives you the facts without the fluff. Our goal at OrthoEducation, a non-profit organization, is to deli...

Elbow pain that just won’t quit—even if you’ve never picked up a tennis racket? You might be dealing with tennis elbow, a common and frustrating condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles. In this episode of OrthoEducation, we serve up everything you need to know: what tennis elbow is, what causes it, who’s most at risk, and the wide range of treatment options available—from rest and physical therapy to advanced interventions. Whether you're an athlete, a DIY enthusiast, or someone who works at a desk all day, this episode breaks down the science and soluti...

Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just curious about one of the most common sports injuries, this episode of OrthoEducation breaks down everything you need to know about ACL tears. Join our expert as we explore how these injuries happen, the signs to watch for, and what treatment and recovery really look like—without the medical jargon. From diagnosis to surgery, and from rehab to return to play, we cover the full journey in a way that's easy to understand and surprisingly interesting. You'll hear insights that can help you make informed decisions or simply satisfy your cu...

Got an achy back that just won’t quit? You’re not alone—low back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor. In this episode of OrthoEducation, we break down the basics of low back pain in a way that’s easy to understand and surprisingly helpful. Learn about common causes, when to worry, what treatments actually work, and what you can do to find relief. Whether your pain came on suddenly or has been bothering you for years, we’ve got you covered with expert-backed insights and practical advice. No complex jargon, just real infor...

Is hip pain slowing you down? You’re not alone—and it might be more than just aging. In this episode of OrthoEducation, we take a friendly, informative look at hip arthritis: what it is, why it happens, and what you can do about it. From early warning signs to treatment options like physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and even surgery, we walk you through everything patients need to know in plain, easy-to-understand language. Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or just trying to stay informed, this episode offers expert-backed guidance to help you take control of your join...

Stiff, aching knees slowing you down? You’re not alone—knee arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, especially as we age. In this episode of OrthoEducation, we break down what knee arthritis really is, what causes it, and how to recognize the early warning signs. You’ll also learn about the full range of treatment options—from simple lifestyle changes to injections and surgery—so you can feel empowered and informed. Whether you’re dealing with new symptoms, managing chronic pain, or helping a loved one navigate treatment, this episode offers practical advice in plain langua...

Tearing your Achilles tendon is one of the most dreaded injuries—sudden, painful, and often completely unexpected. In this episode from OrthoEducation, we break down everything you need to know about Achilles tendon ruptures in a way that’s easy to understand. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a concerned patient, or just curious about how this injury happens (and why it’s so frustrating), we’ve got you covered. Learn how and why the Achilles tendon tears, how it's diagnosed, what treatment options are available, and what to expect during recovery.

Brought to you by OrthoEducation, a nonprofi...