Radiant Blog

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Is Shoulder Replacement Surgery Worth It?

Shoulder replacement has become one of the fastest growing joint replacement surgeries in the U.S. Like its more well-known counterparts (knee and hip replacement), it’s proven to be a safe and effective surgery for treating pain and deterioration caused by age-related wear and tear, different forms of arthritis and shoulder fractures. Shoulder replacement surgery... ...Continue →

Thursday, March 10, 2022

5 Things to Know Before Undergoing Knee Replacement

Deciding to undergo a total knee replacement (also known as knee arthroplasty) is a big decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’ve been suffering from knee pain, the thought of a brand-new joint may be appealing, but before considering a knee replacement, there are some things you need to know... ...Continue →

Thursday, May 20, 2021

5 signs you should see a spine specialist for your back pain

Most everyone has suffered from some form of back pain at least once in their life. Whether you tweaked your back helping a friend move a couch or suffered a debilitating illness or injury, back pain is a leading cause of disability and one that most people try to grin and bear. Popping ibuprofen may be a short-term solution to masking your pain, but it won’t fix the problem. ...Continue →

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Everything You Need to Know about Hip Replacement

As the largest joint in your body, your hips bear the brunt of your body weight. They support your ability to walk and move. When they hurt, it can negatively affect your quality of life. Once the hip joint becomes worn down, eventually you are in pain even when resting. ...Continue →

Monday, May 17, 2021

Shoes can cause back and joint pain

The shoes you wear dramatically affect the impact your knees and hips take with every step. Shoes with proper support help keep knees in alignment; arch support helps prevent feet from rotating inward; and cushioning reduces the impact from the body’s weight with each step. All of this helps to reduce pressure on our joints and back. ...Continue →

Monday, May 17, 2021

Back and Neck Pain Don’t Have to Keep You Out of the Garden

Not adhering to proper mechanics when gardening can leave you in pain, unable to finish the job. St. Vincent Charity spine surgeon Robert McLain, M.D. encourages gardeners to use four simple steps to prevent back and neck pain. ...Continue →

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Surgical team uses skill, prayer and encouragement to help patient get back on his feet

Michael Hirschberger was terrified. Alone at the hospital due to COVID-19 restrictions, he was panicked at the thought of going to a rehab facility after back surgery and being away from his support network. His life experiences made him anxious about being at a facility alone. While he was able to take pain medications after his previous surgeries and successfully stop when appropriate, he feared he might fall back into his addiction without the support of his loved ones. Seeing his panic, Dr. Anderson made a deal with him. If, after two days at the hospital, Michael was able to walk the length of the hallway, then he would discharge him home. ...Continue →

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Spine Surgeon Builds International Following

Dr. Deborah Blades travels to Barbados frequently to visit her extended family; however, over the years, her visits have consistently included consulting with patients seeking help for their spinal conditions. She has earned a reputation for not only her knowledge and expertise but the time she takes listening to her patients and then working in partnership to develop an effective treatment plan. Patients regularly make the nearly 10-hour plane trip to Cleveland for surgery under her expert hand ...Continue →

Tuesday, April 06, 2021

Successful Back Surgery Brings Former Masters Champ Out of Retirement and Back to Augusta National

Legendary PGA golfer, Ian Woosnam, retired twice - once in 2016 and then again, in 2019. The chronic back pain he suffered throughout his career had progressed to the point he could no longer swing the club in the manner that carried him to 52 tournament victories worldwide. However, a recommendation from a friend led him to Deborah Blades, M.D., at St. Vincent Charity Medical Center. Now, Woosnam finds himself pain free and ready to return in April to golf’s biggest stage in August, Georgia. ...Continue →

Thursday, January 07, 2021

Resolve to lose weight to reduce arthritis pain

Maintaining a healthy body weight is important for overall health. Most Americans know it’s importance in reducing risks of heart disease, diabetes and cancer. However, many may be surprised to learn excess weight not only exacerbates pain from arthritis, but significantly increases the risk of a patient developing arthritis in the first place. ...Continue →