Archive for orthopedics
Another level of gratitude: Spina bifida care for Liam
Most parents first walk through the doors of Boston Children’s Hospital seeking answers about their child’s health. But until recently, when Mary Holleran arrived at the hospital, she was simply beginning another day at work. A nurse practitioner, she’s been on staff at Boston Children’s for more than a decade, much of it spent caring ... Read More about Another level of gratitude: Spina bifida care for Liam
Leg lengthening and hip surgeries inspire a career
Lauren Schoeller was in eighth grade when she decided to become an orthopedic surgeon. She had by then had multiple surgeries, many of them scheduled around spring softball season. Now 20 and studying premed at the University of New Hampshire, Lauren has had a total of 18 operations on her leg, hips, foot, and spine. ... Read More about Leg lengthening and hip surgeries inspire a career
Concussions: Prevention and recovery for athletes
Team sports such as soccer, lacrosse, football, and field hockey bring together all the benefits of rigorous exercise and fun with friends. However, participation also comes with the risk of injury. Concussions, a type of traumatic brain injury, are all too common among young athletes. Helmets and mouth guards reduce players’ risk of other injuries, ... Read More about Concussions: Prevention and recovery for athletes
Knowledge is empowerment: The 2019 Female Athlete Conference
School was out for the summer at Babson College, but on June 4, Sorenson Auditorium was filled with over 400 people as Dr. Kathryn Ackerman kicked off the fourth biennial Female Athlete Conference. The one-of-a-kind conference, hosted by the Female Athlete Program at Boston Children’s Hospital, drew attendees from as close as Boston and as ... Read More about Knowledge is empowerment: The 2019 Female Athlete Conference
Vegan diets for adolescent athletes: A sports dietitian’s perspective
Vegan diets are a hit on social media, but is a 100 percent plant-based diet a good idea for athletes? A sports nutritionist looks at the pros and cons.
Ryker’s comeback from osteochondritis dissecans
When Ryker Casey takes the field, everything comes down to the strength of his legs and precision of his kick. As a football kicker, he sends the ball deep into the opponent’s end zone at kickoff and earns extra points for his team by sending the ball through the field goal, sometimes from 50 yards ... Read More about Ryker’s comeback from osteochondritis dissecans
Scoliosis bracing: How to support your child
Bracing is a family affair. Every member of the family should be on the same page with regards to the number of hours the brace needs to be worn and how brace wear fits into the child’s schedule.
Limb-salvage surgery is best option for Andrew
It was quite a spring for Andrew Hedberg. The rising high school sophomore made the varsity golf team and was elected class president for the upcoming school year. Most importantly, the bone cancer that once threatened his left leg and his life remained in remission. All of this validated the decision that Andrew’s family made seven years ... Read More about Limb-salvage surgery is best option for Andrew
How to have surgery and help others at the same time
Ryan Zanchi and his parents didn’t hesitate when invited to participate in research about spinal surgery. Ryan was diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis at the age of 13 and had surgery two years later. Now his spine is straighter, and his contributions to science will help other patients for years to come. “Ryan’s surgery went so ... Read More about How to have surgery and help others at the same time
Matt and Brendan: Post-op pals, for life
Eighteen-year-old Matt Freitas and 16-year-old Brendan Cogavin met as roommates at Boston Children’s Hospital, but that’s just a small part of why they’ve stayed in touch for the six years since. “Their relationship goes beyond knowing each other at their worst,” says Melissa, Matt’s mom. “Brendan is cool, smart, and tries hard at everything he ... Read More about Matt and Brendan: Post-op pals, for life