Orthopaedic Associates of Reading, Ltd.

08/08/2025

08/04/2025

Thank you for your kind words Kathy!

07/30/2025

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen Shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and progresses through three stages:

Freezing Stage: Pain gradually increases, and shoulder movement becomes limited
Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but the shoulder becomes stiffer, making movement more difficult.
Thawing stage: Range of motion slowly improves.
This condition is caused by inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule, which restricts movement. It’s common in people aged 40-60 and in those with conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or after prolonged shoulder immobilization (i.e., after surgery or injury).

Treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on reducing pain and restoring movement, and it usually included the following options:

Physical Therapy
Involves stretching and range-of-motion exercises to gradually improve flexibility and function – This may take several months for full recovery.
Medications
NSAIDs to help reduce pain and inflammation
Corticosteroid Injections
Injected directly into the shoulder joint.
Help reduce inflammation and pain, especially in the freezing stage.
Heat and Ice Therapy
Applying heat before exercises can loosen the joint
Ice packs may help reduce pain and swelling afterwards
Shoulder Manipulation or Distention
Under anesthesia, the doctor may gently move the shoulder to loosen tight tissue.
Alternatively, injecting sterile fluid into the joint capsule (distention) can stretch the tissue and improve movement.
Surgery
In resistant cases, arthroscopic surgery may be performed to remove adhesions and scar tissue.

Most people recover fully in a few months, though it can take up to 1 year depending on the severity and treatment adherence.

07/22/2025

Handling Hand Conditions With Compassion & Expertise

Our team of dedicated hand surgery specialists handles every type of hand condition, including carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger fingers, tendonitis, tennis elbow, arthritic conditions, and much more. If surgical intervention is needed, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive procedures that use endoscopic techniques to restore full, pain-free function to your hand quickly and effectively.

07/14/2025

Sports injuries are common, ranging from sprains and strains to more severe fractures and tears. While some injuries may seem minor, even small issues can lead to long-term complications if not addressed properly. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovery, as it helps restore mobility, strength, and flexibility while reducing pain. It is important not to rush through rehab to ensure that muscles, ligaments, and joints heal properly, which helps prevent re-injury in the future. Effective rehabilitation also includes strengthening exercises, stretching, and conditioning to improve overall athletic performance and prevent future injuries. In addition to rehabilitation, treatment options include bracing and injections including cortisone, viscosupplementation, and platelet rich plasma (PRP).

Injury prevention is just as important as recovery. Incorporating proper warm-up routines, stretching, and strength training into an athletes regular regimen can help reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, wearing appropriate braces and using proper techniques during physical activities are key factors in safeguarding against strains and tears. If an injury does occur, it is important to see an orthopedist for a professional evaluation. An orthopedist can assess the severity of the injury, recommend an effective treatment plan, and monitor recovery to ensure the best possible outcome. Early intervention by a specialist can make a significant difference in preventing further damage and returning to the sport safely. Give our office a call to set up an appointment!

06/30/2025

Meniscus Tear

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury involving the cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci – medial (inner) and lateral (outer). Tears can result from trauma (often athletes) or degeneration (due to aging).

Types of Tears:

Radial - Most common, often in younger people
Horizontal - split the meniscus parallel to the tibia
Flap - Irregular, displaced pieces of cartilage
Complex - Combination of tear patterns
Bucket-handle - Large displaced flap that can lock the knee
Symptoms

Popping sound during injury
Pain and swelling
Stiffness or inability to fully straighten the knee
Locking or catching sensation
Diagnosis

Physical exam (McMurray test)
MRI – Gold standard for imaging meniscus tears
Arthroscopy – May be used diagnostically and therapeutically
Treatment

Depends on tear type, size, and location

Conservative: RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), NSAIDs, physical therapy
Surgical:
Meniscectomy: removal of torn part (faster recovery but more risk of arthritis)
Meniscus repair: Stitching the tear (longer recovery time but preserves function)

06/20/2025

To prevent injuries from occurring to your shoulder, ensure that you are doing the proper strength training for them. Whenever you plan on using your shoulders, make sure to warm up, keep them flexible, and use each evenly.

06/19/2025

Did you know that OAR has extended Physical Therapy hours? Call our office today to make an appointment! 610-376-8671

06/12/2025

Thank you Paul!

06/05/2025

Wishing Dr. O'Neill a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!