New research confirms what some studies have suggested—that steroid injections timed within a month of rotator cuff surgery could increase risk of infection for patients. The shoulder joint offers a greater range of flexibility than any other joint in the body.  From injury, overuse, or age, shoulder pain is a frequent symptom for many people.  … Continued

Responding to safety concerns, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently banned manufacturers from selling surgical mesh used to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Approximately 50 percent of women over age 50 experience symptoms of pelvic organic prolapse.  Age, menopause, and childbearing contribute to a weakening of pelvic muscles that hold the bladder, uterus, … Continued

If your child, family member, or partner suffers a blow to the head but they have no concussion symptoms—did they get off lucky?  A study from Boston University (BU) supports a developing discussion about pathology caused by brain trauma—not by concussions. For professional athletes, risk of neurological impairment at early, mid, or late life is … Continued

A recent study found that even inactive ingredients in prescription or over-the-counter medications may have unpleasant or serious side effects. Published in Science Translational Medicine, a joint research effort from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Brigham and Women’s Hospital determined that virtually all pills and capsules contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic … Continued

Though not common, pregnancy can put some women at greater risk of severe or fatal stroke. Stroke occurs when blood vessels are blocked or broken.  An ischemic stroke occurs when fatty plaque or a clot blocks a blood vessel.  The blockage deprives brain tissue of oxygen-rich blood.  Without oxygen, brain cells quickly die, sometimes causing … Continued

Tourniquets used in everyday medical care may contribute to cross-contamination between patients. While the idea of a tourniquet to most people brings to mind a serious, traumatic wound, tourniquets are frequently used throughout healthcare settings.  Reusable tourniquets are used to locate a vein for a blood draw or IV.  If you have had a blood … Continued

The US Food and Drug Association (FDA) is alerting the healthcare industry about the danger of surgical staplers used for internal operative procedures. What Makes a Medical Stapler? Most people are familiar with office staplers.  A depressed lever inserts a staple that holds paper together.  Construction staplers do a similar job on other industrial materials.  … Continued

Since a government mandate required American healthcare providers to transition to electronic medical records, paper medical charts are rapidly becoming extinct.  Has the move to digital health data fulfilled its promise or introduced a new host of potentially deadly problems? Technological Advancements a Constant in Medical Industry New technology and the medical industry go hand-in-hand. … Continued

The danger of brain injury from sports has become household news. In response, the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab recently released youth helmet ratings for the first time. In the last decade, professional sports leagues have come under fire after findings repeatedly showed the danger of hits to the head in adult sports including football, hockey, … Continued