ORTHO IN THE TIME OF CORONA:
ORTHO IN THE TIME OF CORONA:
Today, we are all experiencing a unique and stressful time that many could never have anticipated.
Social distancing has put our daily lives and livelihoods on hold. While it is unclear how long this
pandemic will last, or what long term impact(s) it will have on our society, I think everyone will agree it is a matter of WHEN we will return to “normal” days rather than IF. Even though there are many things we have no control over during these times, it is important to remember that there are still things within our control and we should try to focus on them.
Rotator Cuff Strengthening Exercises
Oftentimes, my patients have complained that they were unable to complete their therapies or
exercises because they did not have enough time for it. I have also treated many athletes with year-
round commitments who have had no offseason to rest and recover from overuse injuries. Many
patients have looked for that quick fix, like the pit stop at a NASCAR race that needed to get right back
to the fray. However, many have underestimated “time” as a healer, because they believed that there
was never enough of it to spare. Today, time has been thrust upon us unexpectedly because most
things like school, work, social gatherings, events, and athletics have all been put on hold.
“Time” is not necessarily passively waiting for things to heal. “Time” includes the daily 20 to 25 minutes
one can use to treat their low back pain by working on their core strengthening exercises that were
learned from their therapist or on the internet. “Time” includes the capsular stretching and rotator cuff
strengthening exercises that the baseball pitcher or tennis player can do every day while their season is
on hold. Overuse conditions from the office, factory, or sports, we previously never gave a chance to
recover, may finally have time to heal from this unplanned rest. For those whose surgery has been put
on hold due to COVID-19, they have “time” to maintain or even improve their range of motion and
strength before their ACL surgery, Shoulder replacement, or joint replacement.
This pandemic has caused anxiety, stress, and unfortunately, tragedy for some. On the other hand, it is
heartwarming to see many of us working and sacrificing together to care for each other during these
uncertain times. Life will become busy again. In the meantime, we all need to stay healthy until we
return to normalcy. The physicians at Orthopaedic Associates are privileged to have the opportunity to
serve our community. We are honored and blessed that our dedicated staff has continued to serve
our patients even during this unpredictable time. Stay safe and we look forward to seeing everyone
again.
David L. Lin, MD, FAAOS
Orthopaedic Surgery/Sports Medicine
