Andre Johnson, wide receiver for the Houston Texans injured his ankle again during the game against the Dallas Cowboys. According to coach Kubiak, the injury is minor and he should be fine for next week. But it was obvious after the injury today, that he was not the same player that started the game.
Ankle sprains, even the minor ones, will slow you down and need immediate attention to prevent long term instability. If you were watching the game today, you noticed he missed a few plays to allow "some" rest and the ankle was taped to reduce motion. These are 2 key components to rehabing ankle sprains.
The majority of us are not professional athletes that must play on for the game. So follow the RICE principle...Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. In other words, stop playing and let the ankle rest for a couple of days. Apply ice as soon as possible and elevate your foot off the floor. An Ace bandage is a great way to start reducing your swelling.
If you notice immediate swelling, bruising and severe pain, seek immediate medical attention to ensure that you did not break your ankle. We will always xray your ankle after any injury to make sure there are no fractures, including looking for possible cartilage injuries which are quite common with ankle sprains.
If your ankle pain is not better after 3 weeks, then you need to come see us. You may have much more going on than you think. Better to know how to make it better, than have an unstable ankle that keeps you out of the game.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
The Journey to a Texas Ironman
Hi Everyone,
This week was a rest week after the hills of Branson 70.3. The post race aches were minimal and the knee appears to be on it’s way to healing. Things are looking up and that makes me a happy girl.
After recovery swims and bike, the weekend topped off with Sherpa duty. This weekend it was Dr. Crane’s turn to knock out a 70.3 at the RedMan half iron distance in Oklahoma City. It was quite fun to help package up, drive, carry stuff, calm nerves and watch her give the ole 70.3 course a whirl. We also had a special guest this trip. Caitlin, Dr. Crane’s daughter also tagged along and was our official “Sherpette” in training.
As we rolled into Oklahoma, the sky changed from cloudy and rain to clear and sunny. This was a grand improvement in comparison to last year’s downpour at RedMan causing a race delay and parts of the bike course were underwater. That was my first 70.3 and definetly one I will soon not forget.
Race morning, water temp was 74 degrees and wetsuits were in demand for the swim. RedMan is a great race for first timers to experienced triathletes. The beginning length of the swim is pretty shallow allowing athletes to stand and take a break. The slight breeze and clouds kept things comfortable for those watching the athletes one by one swim the swim then head to transition.
This year, the bike course was altered a tad and apparently had a few more rolling hills. All in all, as the athletes crossed the line to head into transition 2, most looked happy and relatively fresh even though the temperature was rising and the clouds pretty much cleared from the sky. We caught Dr. Crane rolling into transition and she was ready for that run!
During the majority of the run portion, Mother Nature was being a bit painful to those trying to get their 13.1 miles completed. There were a lot of folks suddenly not looking so fresh as they did after the swim and bike portions of the race. For the family and friends watching their athletes, many sought out shady areas or brought there own means of shade ranging from umbrellas to canopy tents. It proves to be a long day for the spectators but every minute they are there means so much to the athletes.
As Caitlen our Sherpette followed me throughout the day tracking her Mom through each discipline, it was heart warming to watch this little girl look up to her Mom and see the pride she has for her each time we found her on the course. I see a strong triathlete in the future if Caitlen chooses this route. She is definitely a Dr. Crane mini me. ;)
By the end of the race, I think Caitlin and I were just as exhausted as the athletes. Is being a Sherpa worth it? You bet it is. Dr. Crane is in one piece which was my goal for the weekend and our Sherpette is ready for her first triathlon next month. I guess the apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Talk to you next week,
Janet
This week was a rest week after the hills of Branson 70.3. The post race aches were minimal and the knee appears to be on it’s way to healing. Things are looking up and that makes me a happy girl.
After recovery swims and bike, the weekend topped off with Sherpa duty. This weekend it was Dr. Crane’s turn to knock out a 70.3 at the RedMan half iron distance in Oklahoma City. It was quite fun to help package up, drive, carry stuff, calm nerves and watch her give the ole 70.3 course a whirl. We also had a special guest this trip. Caitlin, Dr. Crane’s daughter also tagged along and was our official “Sherpette” in training.
As we rolled into Oklahoma, the sky changed from cloudy and rain to clear and sunny. This was a grand improvement in comparison to last year’s downpour at RedMan causing a race delay and parts of the bike course were underwater. That was my first 70.3 and definetly one I will soon not forget.
Race morning, water temp was 74 degrees and wetsuits were in demand for the swim. RedMan is a great race for first timers to experienced triathletes. The beginning length of the swim is pretty shallow allowing athletes to stand and take a break. The slight breeze and clouds kept things comfortable for those watching the athletes one by one swim the swim then head to transition.
This year, the bike course was altered a tad and apparently had a few more rolling hills. All in all, as the athletes crossed the line to head into transition 2, most looked happy and relatively fresh even though the temperature was rising and the clouds pretty much cleared from the sky. We caught Dr. Crane rolling into transition and she was ready for that run!
During the majority of the run portion, Mother Nature was being a bit painful to those trying to get their 13.1 miles completed. There were a lot of folks suddenly not looking so fresh as they did after the swim and bike portions of the race. For the family and friends watching their athletes, many sought out shady areas or brought there own means of shade ranging from umbrellas to canopy tents. It proves to be a long day for the spectators but every minute they are there means so much to the athletes.
As Caitlen our Sherpette followed me throughout the day tracking her Mom through each discipline, it was heart warming to watch this little girl look up to her Mom and see the pride she has for her each time we found her on the course. I see a strong triathlete in the future if Caitlen chooses this route. She is definitely a Dr. Crane mini me. ;)
By the end of the race, I think Caitlin and I were just as exhausted as the athletes. Is being a Sherpa worth it? You bet it is. Dr. Crane is in one piece which was my goal for the weekend and our Sherpette is ready for her first triathlon next month. I guess the apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Talk to you next week,
Janet
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Journey to a Texas Ironman
Well folks, Branson 70.3 inaugural half IronMan was a success. No doubt about it, when officials say the bike route is challenging, they were telling the truth and then some!
We drove from Texas and as we arrived to Branson, the hills continued to multiply. I knew from the get go, this was going to be quite a different race. On race day, the weather was warmer than expected for the time of year. How lucky for me to leave heat to now race in heat. ;)
Race day swim was beautiful. While many participants wore wetsuits, I elected to not wear the wetsuit. I was very pleased with the confidence, sighting in the water and consistent strokes. I took the swim as the easiest part of the day. As the younger athletes entered the water after my wave, in no time at all they were right along side of me and sometimes swimming right over me. There were a lot of swimmers not sighting and swimming every direction but straight. I kept cool and just followed my routine. Leaving the water, I threw my husband my goggles and cap and with a smile ran to transition.
Transition one(T1) was uphill and more spread out than other races however it was uneventful and within minutes, I was on Celeste and off we went on an adventure. Fog was present in the beginning of the race and going downhill at a high rate of speed in this condition was a new challenge for me. The fog however would soon be missed as it was literally one uphill climb after another. The cool part on the bike course was the loop. As you were fighting up a hill, the opposite side of you the athletes were flying down the hill which included the pros. They were amazing as every move was controlled and fast.
During the ride, the heat kicked in with all sun and no clouds, I felt like SpongeBob squarepants trying to survive on dry land. As fast as I took in hydration, it was sweat right out of my pores. This is one race where nutrition was key. Many athletes of all levels were being pulled off the course with heat related issues.
Transition two (T2) was a snap, my bike position was close to the exit so no problem there. I had a chance to catch up with other riders next to me and all were relieved the bike course was over however the heat, humidity and direct sun were to be dealt with on the run.
Going into this race, I planned on walking most of the run. A nagging knee injury resulted in having my knee drained the same week of the race with a strong suggestion from the Doctor to go easy. So I behaved, somewhat, by taking it slow on the run. It turned out to be a LONG, HOT 13.1 miles. The heat finally got to me when I thought I was done then realized I took a wrong turn. I found a race official and with a smile he put me right back on course and I completed the 70.3 miles well before the cutoff.
On the drive home I was thinking that every athlete reflects the day after a race and think of what if scenarios such as “if only my knee did not hurt”, “if only I could have had a faster transition time”, “if only the sun went away”, and so on and so on. This is when your Sherpa, the one who keeps your head on straight and keeps you focused, reminds you that you did it and you finished it and how many people would never even dream of trying this distance. That was my husband, the master Sherpa or better known as my IronMate. Once again he took me from planning the trip to packing up everything to head home. Thank you Dennis, you will never know just how much what you do at each race means to me.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Connor Barwin of the Houston Texans Is Out For The Season
Connor Barwin of the Houston Texans suffered a season ending ankle injury last weekend during their season opener against the Colts. During the first half of the game after what appeared to be an average play, the Texans defensive lineman dislocated his ankle. He was scheduled to undergo surgery to repair the ankle early in the week.
So what does this mean for the NFL player? Very rarely does an ankle dislocation occur as an isolated event, usually there are fractures of the ankle that occur that need to be repaired to stabilize and relocate the ankle to its proper alignment.
The ankle joint is comprised of the fibula, the tibia and the talus. There are multiple crucial ligaments that kees these bones attached to each other and prevent the ankle from dislocating. If any of these bones are broken or the ligaments or torn and enough force is applied the joint can then dislocate. This injury must be surgically repaired for successful long term outcomes.
To fix the injury, the broken bones and ligaments must be repaired. This usually means a couple of plates with screws. When the ligament between the tibia and fibula is torn, I prefer to use a tightrope to pull these back together and allow the patient to return to exercise activity much faster.
So what can Connor expect from his ankle in the future. With proper realignment and physical therapy, he'll be back to tackling opponents next season. But his ankle will never be perfect. And arthritis will occur, no matter how good the repair is. But proper shoe gear and orthotics will reduce his arthritis significantly.
Have ankle pain? Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas can help.
So what does this mean for the NFL player? Very rarely does an ankle dislocation occur as an isolated event, usually there are fractures of the ankle that occur that need to be repaired to stabilize and relocate the ankle to its proper alignment.
The ankle joint is comprised of the fibula, the tibia and the talus. There are multiple crucial ligaments that kees these bones attached to each other and prevent the ankle from dislocating. If any of these bones are broken or the ligaments or torn and enough force is applied the joint can then dislocate. This injury must be surgically repaired for successful long term outcomes.
To fix the injury, the broken bones and ligaments must be repaired. This usually means a couple of plates with screws. When the ligament between the tibia and fibula is torn, I prefer to use a tightrope to pull these back together and allow the patient to return to exercise activity much faster.
So what can Connor expect from his ankle in the future. With proper realignment and physical therapy, he'll be back to tackling opponents next season. But his ankle will never be perfect. And arthritis will occur, no matter how good the repair is. But proper shoe gear and orthotics will reduce his arthritis significantly.
Have ankle pain? Foot and Ankle Associates of North Texas can help.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
The Journey to a Texas Ironman
Hi Everyone,
Trusting you had a great week and if not, may next week be the best for you!
So a big box appeared on my doorstep on Wednesday. My first ever set of racing wheels arrived. Judging by the look on my face as I gazed upon them for the very the first time, one would have thought I won the lottery or just received a huge diamond or something of that nature. Nope, that’s not me. The two wheels glimmered of carbon and once the tubes and tires were added then mounted on Celeste, a ray of light shined down from the sky and angelic voices began to sing….ok, I’ll stop now.
So it’s one week until Branson 70.3 and I have new race wheels and one sore knee. This morning’s run came to a dead stop followed by a long grueling walk then out of the blue a slow jog. Naturally, you would think I would stop but I thought to walk it off and see what happens. As of this afternoon which included yard work and fall planting, so far so good. Maybe it was just one of those kinks those of us 40 and over are faced with when training – or maybe it’s the anti-inflammatory meds kicking in along with my one beverage for the evening. ;)
Anyways, I have decided next weekend's race is going to focus on the swim and bike then ease it through the run just in case ole kneecaps start yapping. After the race, I am going to take a break. There, I said it…..a break. How long you ask? Well, let’s just see how long it takes until I start whining to my coach that I need more workouts. I give it a week tops.
Talk to ya next week post Branson 70.3!
Janet
Trusting you had a great week and if not, may next week be the best for you!
So a big box appeared on my doorstep on Wednesday. My first ever set of racing wheels arrived. Judging by the look on my face as I gazed upon them for the very the first time, one would have thought I won the lottery or just received a huge diamond or something of that nature. Nope, that’s not me. The two wheels glimmered of carbon and once the tubes and tires were added then mounted on Celeste, a ray of light shined down from the sky and angelic voices began to sing….ok, I’ll stop now.
So it’s one week until Branson 70.3 and I have new race wheels and one sore knee. This morning’s run came to a dead stop followed by a long grueling walk then out of the blue a slow jog. Naturally, you would think I would stop but I thought to walk it off and see what happens. As of this afternoon which included yard work and fall planting, so far so good. Maybe it was just one of those kinks those of us 40 and over are faced with when training – or maybe it’s the anti-inflammatory meds kicking in along with my one beverage for the evening. ;)
Anyways, I have decided next weekend's race is going to focus on the swim and bike then ease it through the run just in case ole kneecaps start yapping. After the race, I am going to take a break. There, I said it…..a break. How long you ask? Well, let’s just see how long it takes until I start whining to my coach that I need more workouts. I give it a week tops.
Talk to ya next week post Branson 70.3!
Janet
Saturday, September 4, 2010
The Journey to a Texas Ironman
I was just thinking early yesterday that it has been a quiet week of work and workouts with not much to report. Funny how things can change in an instant.
Cycling on a warm sunny day with a bit of wind, a friend of mine and I roll along catching up on life and riding. As we entered into a neighboring suburb, we arrived to a stop sign. Both of us stopped and a car pulled up next to us. The woman driver rolled down the passenger window and started yelling at my friend and I stating she is looking for a woman in her 60’s on a bike who spit on her a month ago in another suburb while she was driving her car and if we know who she is and so on and so on. As she drove away, she yelled out to us stating the woman of spit set cyclists back 20 years.
So we turn on our route and try to comprehend what just went down and what on earth would have caused a cyclist to spit at a driver. Of course I could not help but wonder after the random conversation of the driver who really started the altercation. ;)
This incident brings up a very valid point in regards to cyclists on Texas roads. There is currently one town in Texas that has banned cyclists and another now trying to pass a similar ban. I could not think of a more wasteful use of city hall time by enacting such a ban. Luckily, there is a coalition for Texas cyclists to educate and hopefully rid such ridiculous acts. Instead of banning, why not use this opportunity to educate the driver, cyclist and the community as a whole?
We have to come to a solution for all parties. Unfortunately, for Texas cyclists a law requiring motorists to allow for three feet of space between the vehicle and cyclist was vetoed. The coalition is not giving up and hopefully Texas government will come to come to their senses and enact a law to protect both cyclists and motorists.
Personnally, I think the issue is the uneducated drivers and cyclists. Both vehicles and cyclists can share the road. I see many times the arrogance of drivers swerving toward cyclists, the arrogance of cyclists riding 3 to 4 across the road preventing drivers from safely passing, and even the shared non friendly sign language used to communicate between motorists and cyclists. The bad behavior list goes on and on for both parties. Unfortunately, there have been terrible outcomes with the worst being death.
If you or someone you care about is a cyclist, take some time and read up on cycling safety then talk to your cyclists about what they can do to be safer on the road. If you are a driver and I bet you know other drivers, remind yourself and others to give the cyclists at least three feet of space and to drive with caution. If all parties would enact patience and be aware, we can share the road y’all!
Talk to ya next week,
Janet
Cycling on a warm sunny day with a bit of wind, a friend of mine and I roll along catching up on life and riding. As we entered into a neighboring suburb, we arrived to a stop sign. Both of us stopped and a car pulled up next to us. The woman driver rolled down the passenger window and started yelling at my friend and I stating she is looking for a woman in her 60’s on a bike who spit on her a month ago in another suburb while she was driving her car and if we know who she is and so on and so on. As she drove away, she yelled out to us stating the woman of spit set cyclists back 20 years.
So we turn on our route and try to comprehend what just went down and what on earth would have caused a cyclist to spit at a driver. Of course I could not help but wonder after the random conversation of the driver who really started the altercation. ;)
This incident brings up a very valid point in regards to cyclists on Texas roads. There is currently one town in Texas that has banned cyclists and another now trying to pass a similar ban. I could not think of a more wasteful use of city hall time by enacting such a ban. Luckily, there is a coalition for Texas cyclists to educate and hopefully rid such ridiculous acts. Instead of banning, why not use this opportunity to educate the driver, cyclist and the community as a whole?
We have to come to a solution for all parties. Unfortunately, for Texas cyclists a law requiring motorists to allow for three feet of space between the vehicle and cyclist was vetoed. The coalition is not giving up and hopefully Texas government will come to come to their senses and enact a law to protect both cyclists and motorists.
Personnally, I think the issue is the uneducated drivers and cyclists. Both vehicles and cyclists can share the road. I see many times the arrogance of drivers swerving toward cyclists, the arrogance of cyclists riding 3 to 4 across the road preventing drivers from safely passing, and even the shared non friendly sign language used to communicate between motorists and cyclists. The bad behavior list goes on and on for both parties. Unfortunately, there have been terrible outcomes with the worst being death.
If you or someone you care about is a cyclist, take some time and read up on cycling safety then talk to your cyclists about what they can do to be safer on the road. If you are a driver and I bet you know other drivers, remind yourself and others to give the cyclists at least three feet of space and to drive with caution. If all parties would enact patience and be aware, we can share the road y’all!
Talk to ya next week,
Janet
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