Recurrent kneecap dislocations, also known as patellar instability (PI), occur when the kneecap repeatedly slides out of the groove in the front of the knee. This condition is a common and disabling knee condition that more frequently affects adolescents. — Learn more about patellar instability (PI) here — Research studies have shown that recovery from…
The knee’s stability relies on crucial connections between bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and fascia. Each structure is essential because, collectively, they enable us to move and carry out daily activities. One important part of the knee is the postero-lateral corner (PLC). The PLC refers to a complex of structures on the back and outer side…
The Basics of Revision ACL Reconstruction Each year, the orthopaedic surgeons at Banff Sport Medicine carry out approximately 600 Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstructions due to torn ACLs. The ACL is the main stabilizing ligament in the knee and it’s also the most commonly injured, especially in patients that participate in pivoting and cutting sports…
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in North America. Its ease of access, low impact, and highly social atmosphere, make it an appealing sport and activity for players of all ages. Unfortunately, as participation continues to increase, so too do the number of injuries. According to one study, the annual incidence of pickleball…
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, or NSAIDs, are medications that are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. You are likely familiar with common NSAIDs like Advil, Aspirin and Naproxen, and have used them when fighting an illness or recovering from an injury. NSAIDs work by blocking inflammation in the body to help you recover, feel better,…
Concussions are common, especially in athletes. According to a recent Statistics Canada Health Report, approximately “1.6% of Canadians aged 12 years or older reported sustaining one or more concussions in 2019“. The word concussion is derived from the Latin word ‘concutere’ which translates to “shake violently” in English. This is what happens to your head…
Nutrition is a critical part of health and development, but it’s often overlooked amidst the flurry of preparations when having surgery. Considering your nutritional requirements before and after surgery, however, is an important part of optimizing your outcomes and recovery. Nutrition plays a vital role in supporting the body’s ability to withstand the stress of…
The kneecap (patella) normally moves up and down in a groove at the front of the knee joint, known as the trochlear groove. Several tendons and ligaments hold and support the kneecap in place. When the patella dislocates, it pops or slides out of this groove, usually to the outside of the knee (laterally). A…
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body. While the shoulder’s remarkable flexibility allows for a wide range of motion, excessive movement can also lead to pain and instability. The shoulder is a shallow ball-and-socket joint. It is comprised of the humeral head, a ball-like structure at the top of the upper…
Injuries are, unfortunately, all too common and an unavoidable fact of participating in sport and everyday life. Less commonly understood, is the importance of good nutrition in the healing process. Most are aware of the importance of sport medicine and physiotherapy for recovery, but nutrition is another important pillar. Energy A common mistake is thinking…
The SHYFT Research Study: SHould You transFer the Tubercle? Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is a successful operation used to stabilize the kneecap in patients with patellar instability. MPFL reconstruction uses one of your tendons to reconstruct the injured ligament that attaches to your kneecap. Traditional treatment of patellar instability has often included moving the…
The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is a ligament that connects the inner edge of the kneecap (patella) to the thigh bone (femur). Its main function is to stabilize the kneecap and prevent it from dislocating to the outside of your knee. How can injuries to the MPFL occur? Injury to the MPFL can occur if the…
