OrthoEducation
OrthoEducation is a nonprofit podcast channel dedicated to helping patients understand orthopedic conditions in a clear, accurate, and unbiased way. Produced with expert input and AI assistance, episodes cover topics such as knee pain and tennis elbow in an accessible, engaging format. Each episode is based on peer-reviewed research and aims to empower listeners to become informed participants in their own healthcare. The show is designed for people who are newly diagnosed or simply curious about musculoskeletal health, with a focus on educational, non-boring content.
Episodes
Spinal Cord Injuries: What Everyone Should Know
The spinal cord is the body's main communication pathway, carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When this vital connection is injured, the effects can be life-changing. In this episode, we explain what a spinal cord injury is, how it occurs, and why the location and severity of the injury determine how much movement, sensation, and body function may be affected. You'll also
Breaking the Shoulder: Understanding Proximal Humerus Fractures
A broken shoulder can happen in an instant—but recovery takes time, patience, and the right treatment. In this episode, we explore proximal humerus fractures, one of the most common shoulder fractures, especially in older adults after a fall. We explain what part of the shoulder is injured, why these fractures occur, and why some can heal with a simple sling while others require surgery.Using clea
Hip Pinch: Understanding Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
Why does your hip hurt when you sit for long periods, get out of a car, squat, or play sports? In this episode, we explore femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), a common cause of hip and groin pain that occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit together as smoothly as they should. Over time, this abnormal contact can damage important structures in the hip, including the labrum and
When Bone Loses Blood: Understanding Avascular Necrosis
What happens when a bone loses its blood supply? In this episode, we explore avascular necrosis (AVN)—also called osteonecrosis—a condition where part of a bone begins to die because it no longer receives enough blood flow. Although AVN is uncommon, it can lead to severe pain, joint damage, and even collapse of the affected bone if left untreated. Using clear and easy-to-understand explanations, w
Flatfoot Breakdown: Why Walking Starts to Hurt
Flatfeet are common—but when the arch of the foot begins to collapse and pain develops, everyday activities like walking, standing, or exercising can become difficult. In this episode, we explore acquired adult flatfoot deformity, also known as progressive collapsing foot deformity, a condition caused by stretching and dysfunction of the important posterior tibial tendon on the inside of the ankle
The Body’s Wiring: Understanding Nerve Injuries
Nerves are the body’s communication system—carrying signals that allow you to move, feel, and react. But what happens when that system is disrupted? In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of nerve injuries, breaking down how and why they occur, and what it means when those vital signals are slowed, damaged, or completely lost.Using clear, real-life examples, we walk through the three ma
Why Bones Break Slowly: The Story of Stress Fractures
What happens when your bones are pushed just a little too far, day after day? In this episode, we break down the fascinating story behind stress fractures—tiny cracks in bone that develop over time from repeated pressure rather than a single injury. Using simple, real-world examples, we explain how activities like running, jumping, or sudden increases in training can overload the body’s natural ab
When the Shoulder Slips: Labral Tears Explained
In this episode, we take a closer look at glenoid labral tears, a common but often misunderstood cause of shoulder pain and instability. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps keep the shoulder joint stable, and when it tears, patients may experience pain, clicking, weakness, or a feeling that the shoulder is “slipping” or unstable. We explore how these injuries occur—whether from a sudden t
Back Pain That Travels: The Truth About Sciatica
In this episode, we explore sciatica, a common condition that causes pain to travel from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in the body—becomes irritated or compressed, most often due to problems in the lower spine such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or age-related changes in the spine. We explain why sciatic nerve p
Running into Trouble: The Truth about Shin Splints
In this episode, we take a closer look at shin splints, one of the most common causes of lower leg pain in runners, walkers, and athletes. Shin splints—also known as medial tibial stress syndrome or tibial periostitis—cause aching pain along the front or inner part of the shin bone (tibia). The condition often develops after a sudden increase in activity, such as starting a new running program, tr
Ouch on the Inside: Understanding MCL Sprains of the Knee
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
Back Under Pressure: Osteoporosis and Compression Fractures
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 sympt
Bent Fingers, Straight Talk: Dupuytren’s Contracture Explained
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
Breaking the Shin: Understanding Tibial Shaft Fractures
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 d
Out of Joint: A Deep Dive into Shoulder Instability
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 sh
Why Your Heel Hurts: A Deep Dive into Plantar Fasciitis
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,
Grip, Pinch, Pain: A Deep Dive into Thumb Arthritis
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 ar
Pulled Hamstrings: The Back of the Leg Breakdown
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 t
Battered but Not Broken: Understanding Thigh Contusions
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 bruisin
The Thrower’s Curse: Inside Tommy John Surgery
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 wh
Tight Spaces: Understanding Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
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 differenc
Frozen Shoulder Explained: Breaking Free from Shoulder Stiffness
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,
Inside the Kneecap: Unpacking Anterior Knee Pain
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 th
Fixing Trigger Finger: From Jammed to Joyful
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 con
The Ankle Arthritis Deep Dive: What Patients Need to Know
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 mis
The Rotator Cuff Spectrum: From Inflammation to Arthritis
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 ap
Breaking Down Broken Wrists
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 scan
The Silent Bone Thief: Osteoporosis Explained
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
Achilles Tendonitis Explained: Causes, Care & Comeback
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 insertio
When the Collarbone Cracks
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 sli
The Wrist Bump Mystery: Cracking the Ganglion Cyst Code
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 wha
Straight Talk on a Curved Spine: Understanding Idiopathic Scoliosis
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 a
The Hip’s Outside Edge: The Trochanteric Bursitis Breakdown
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 hi
Torn but Not Broken: Navigating Meniscal Tears
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 surger
Shoulder Dislocations 101: From Injury to Recovery
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, an
A Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Deep Dive: From Numb to Nerve-wracking
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-rev
A Pain in the Neck: The Truth About Whiplash
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 whi
Understanding Bunions: Causes, Myths & Fixes
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
Navicular Stress Fractures: A Small Bone, A Big Problem
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,
Hip Fractures Explained
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 fractur
That Lump on Your Elbow: Let’s Talk Olecranon Bursitis
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
Patellar Tendonitis -Jumper's Knee Explained
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 a
Ankle Sprains -What to know about a very common injury
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
Tennis Elbow -What causes it, and How is it Treated
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 physi
ACL Tears -Signs, Surgery, and Recovery
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 r
Low Back Pain -The Basics
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
Hip Arthritis -What Patients Need to Know
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
Knee Arthritis -Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
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
Achilles Rupture -A Frustrating Injury Explained
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 g
The Painful Stiff Big Toe: Understanding Hallux Rigidus
A stiff, painful big toe may not seem like a serious problem—until every step becomes uncomfortable. In this episode, we explore hallux rigidus, also known as big toe arthritis, a progressive condition that causes pain, stiffness, and loss of motion in the joint at the base of the big toe. We explain why this arthritis develops, how it gradually changes the way you walk, and why activities such as
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