Community Outreach Archives - Orthopaedic & Neurosurgery Specialists

ONS is Proud Sponsor of KIC-IT Triathlon

Posted on May 25, 2016

ONS IS PROUD TO SPONSOR THE KIDS IN CRISIS KIC-IT TRIATHLON SPORTING EVENT FOR THE THIRD YEAR.

KIC-IT is a vital fundraiser for Kids in Crisis, Connecticut’s only free, round-the-clock crisis counseling center and temporary emergency shelter for children of all ages and families dealing with abuse, neglect, homelessness, mental health issues or extreme family conflict. More than 800 athletes from throughout the Tri-state area are expected to participate in this popular two-day event. ONS is proud to support our community’s children in need and the important work of Kids in Crisis.

The Kids Triathlon takes place on Saturday, June 11 at Cove Beach in Stamford. Adults will compete on Sunday, June 12, in a variety of contests including the ninth annual Navigators Stamford KIC IT Olympic Triathlon, third annual Navigators Stamford KIC IT Sprint Triathlon and second annual Navigators Stamford KIC IT 5k and 10k races. These USAT-sanctioned races lead athletes over courses along the Long Island Sound and throughout the city of Stamford.

Visit our booth during the Family Festival on Sunday from 9 am – 12 noon, where you can Spin to Win and test your knowledge of the body’s musculoskeletal system, injuries and treatments!

High Spirits at BCA 5K

Posted on May 3, 2016

TEAM ONS’ SPIRITS WERE HIGH AT THE BCA 5K.

Despite the rainy weather and cool temperatures, ONS orthopedic surgeons Marc S. Kowalsky, MD and Katherine B. Vadasdi, MD along with members of the ONS physical therapy department were in good form for the first annual Breast Cancer Awareness 5K run/1 mile walk. Team ONS ran, walked, (some did both) and manned the ONS sponsor’s table to greet fellow BCA supporters and educate them about the comprehensive orthopedic and neurosurgery services that are provided by the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at ONS.

ONS Physical Therapy Manager, Alicia Hirscht, DPT, SCS, CSCS, led a pre-run warm up routine before the runners took to the wet but beautiful course which started on Mason Street. wound its way down Steamboat Road and through Bruce Park before returning to Richards 3.1 miles later. Many thanks to Dr. Kowalsky, Dr. Vadasdi, Alicia, Chalon Lefevbre, PT, LMT, Betsy Kreuter, PT, CLT, Tanya Kalyuzhny, DPT, MDT, Caitlin Yauch, PT, PT technicians Carolina Castillo and Kristin Sury, and PT front desk rep Rachel Olsen, for their enthusiastic support.

ONS to Sponsor BCA 5-K Run/Walk for Hope

Posted on April 26, 2016

THE WOMEN’S SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER AT ONS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE RUN/WALK FOR HOPE 5K.

It’s not too late to register and join Dr. Katie B. Vadasdi, sports medicine specialist and director of the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at ON S, ON S Stamford Physicial Therapy Manager, Alicia Hirscht, DPT, SCS, CSCS, and others from Team ONS for a pre-run warm up and stretch before we hit the road!

WHEN: Sunday, May 1, 2016

WHAT: Breast Cancer Alliance Run/Walk for Hope 5K

WHERE: Beginning and ending at Richards, 359 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich

9:10 ONS Warm up

9:30 5K begins

10:45 One-mile kick off

The Women’s Sports Medicine Center at ONS is proud to support the Breast Cancer Alliance in its efforts to help eradicate breast cancer. Most of us know someone, or know of someone who has been faced with this disease. Last year, an estimated 1,700,00 American women were diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 600,000 American women died from it.

An Added Level of Safety to Young Athletes

Posted on April 19, 2016

THE ORTHO ACCESS PROGRAM AT ONS OFFERS AN ADDED LEVEL OF SAFETY TO YOUNG ATHLETES WHO ARE INJURED ON THE FIELD.

If you missed yesterday’s Well column in The New York Times, it focused on the lack of national safety standards to protect student athletes from crippling or fatal injuries. Individual states and the schools within them, for the most part, haven’t yet adopted injury prevention and treatment policies or procedures for children who play organized or league sports either. The responsibility is all too often left to coaches and parents to assess what measures to take when a young athlete is injured and when they can return to play. 500 student athletes died last year due to poor decisions made immediately following injury, according to the article. The ORTHO ACCESS program at ONS is designed to add an extra layer of medical support and injury prevention education for coaches, athletes, and parents. During the first critical moments after a player is hurt, ONS ORTHO ACCESS sports medicine physicians helps to determine the best immediate course of action to take. Read more.

ONS is Proud to Support Seniors in Our Community

Posted on January 21, 2016

ONS is proud to support older residents in our community by sponsoring the 8^th Annual Waveny LifeCare Network Mixed Paddle tournament, which raises much needed funds for their senior programs and housing services. Saturday, February 27 from 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm. The event is open to all paddle tennis enthusiasts: Pro, A and B. Flights. The event will take place at four paddle court sites in New Canaan and is followed by refreshments and prizes. More information and to register.

2015 ONS Scholarship Award

Posted on July 23, 2015

Newcropped — In June, Dr. Delos, MD, presented the ONS Scholarship to graduating student athlete Matheus Chaves.

THE 2015 ONS SCHOLARSHIP WAS AWARDED TO GREENWICH HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR, MATHEUS CHAVES.

As a way of giving back to the community, ONS awards a yearly scholarship to a graduating high school student that has exceled in both academics and athletics. This June, Dr. Demetris Delos presented Matheus Chaves with the ONS scholarship. Matheus is set to begin courses at Florida Atlantic University this fall where he plans to study Exercise Science. He hopes to become an athletic trainer. After completion of his bachelor’s degree, Matheus plans to return to the Fairfield County area to continue his education and become a physical therapist.

For the past three years, Matheus has worked with local youth at the Greenwich Boys and Girls Club as a camp counselor where he was awarded the Boy’s and Girl’s Club, Youth of the Year Award. We congratulate Matheus for his contribution to the community and his high school academic and sports career that involved soccer, track and field and wrestling.

When we asked Matheus what advice he would like to offer upconing high school seniors he said, “while going through the college selection process everything works out for a reason. Don’t worry if you don’t get in to the one you thought was your top pick, all things work out.”

From all of us at ONS, we wish Matheus well!

“Maximizing Your Child’s Athletic Potential” Success

Posted on January 30, 2015

Delos_Houston_ — Dr. Delos with Allan Houston

Last Thursday’s talk on “Maximizing Your Child’s Athletic Potential” was a success. A big thank you goes out to the Junior League of Greenwich for making it possible with their focus on improving the community and empowering others to further health and education! Ultimately they brought together the perfect combination of experts to inform the public about the youth and the sports they love.

Dr. Delos, of ONS and Greenwich Hospital, was a panel speaker at this event. He specializes in sports medicine and arthroscopic treatment of knee and shoulder disorders. Before ONS, Dr. Delos was the Assistant NFL Team Physician for the New York Giants and was team physician for a number of local high school and college athletes.

Other panel members consisted of Andy Barr, Director of Performance and Rehab for the New York Knicks, Mubarak “Bar” Malik, Head of Strength and Conditioning for the New York Knicks, and Allan Houston, one of NBA’s all-time greatest long range shooters and Olympic gold medalist, as the moderator. Each participant reinforced the importance of parents taking interest in the development of their young athlete and properly guiding them to the path of success. Parents attending this event were very attentive, and came prepared with questions.

Conversations covered the fundamental topics, like proper sleep habits and nutrition. For example, a young athlete’s nutrition should increase in relation to the amount of activity they experience daily. This may be common knowledge to an adult but for an adolescent, proper amounts of sleep and good nutrition that balances the amount of activity should be added to their routine.

Aside from the basic topics of discussion, there was a myth to be busted as well; to find out the details of the myth and for more information about the questions that were asked at the event, please read the article written by the Greenwich Freepress.

Delos_Group_2 — Photography credit goes to the Delos family, thank you!

Ready for Spring Sports?

Posted on January 15, 2015

Foot and ankle, hand and wrist injury prevention tips by orthopedics specialists

When: February 25, 2015 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Noble Auditorium, Greenwich Hospital
Speakers: Mark Yakavonis, MD, MMS, Mark Vitale, MD, and Paddle and Tennis Professional Patrick Hirscht

If golf or racket sports are in your plans for the spring you will want to hear tips from fellowship trained orthopedic foot and ankle specialist Mark Yakavonis, MD, MMS and fellowship trained hand/wrist/elbow specialist Mark Vitale, MD, MPH who will discuss common injuries seen in golf and racket sports. Special guest and local tennis pro Patrick Hirscht will also speak. Learn about common injuries, and how to choose footwear, braces and exercises to prevent injury and play your best; whether it’s the foot, hand, wrist or elbow, they’re all at risk for injury when you’re active. Dr. Yakavonis and Dr. Vitale will discuss nonsurgical and surgical treatments, along with ailments particular to racket sports. You will have the opportunity to ask questions at the conclusion of the talk. The program is free and open to the public. Registration Requested. Call (203) 863-4277 or register online at www.greenhosp.org.

07/10/2019

ONS SPONSORS: Waveny LifeCare Network Mixed Paddle Tournament

Posted on December 29, 2014

Waveny LifeCare Network Mixed Paddle Tournament

When: February 28, 2015 from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Where: Four Paddle Courts – Country Club of New Canaan, Field Club of new Canaan, Waveny Paddle Courts and The Lake Club

Sign-up to play: Call Joanne Boyer at 203.594.5416 or email jboyer@waveny.org

ONS sponsors Waveny LifeCare Network, a not-for-profit comprehensive continuum of care that has served the needs of New Canaan and the greater community since 1975. Waveny LifeCare Network offers a progression of therapeutic programs, services and living options to enhance the quality of life of those they serve.

What do you do when you are diagnosed with an old (chronic) Achilles tendon rupture?

Posted on November 13, 2014

Mark Yakavonis, MD, MMS, is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle surgery. Dr. Yakavonis has expertise in treating a variety of foot pain and deformity related conditions including Achilles tendonitis, ankle instability, cartilage injuries, bunions and hammer toes. His practice will also focus on youth athlete sports injuries and the types of injuries seen in field athletes, gymnasts and ballet dancers.

Achilles tendon ruptures will often not be discovered for months after the injury. In the months between injury and showing up at the doctor’s office, the torn tendon develops scar tissue which decreased the quality and elasticity of the tissue. Because of this, directly repairing the torn tendon, as is done in an acute injury, becomes is less than ideal. In this situation, we will supplement the tendon repair with a tendon transfer. Essentially, we borrow a tendon that bends the big toe (there is another tendon that compensates when it is borrowed), reroute it, and reattach it to the heel bone. This does two very important things:

1. It supplements the strength of the torn Achilles, allowing a quicker and better recovery.

2. It provides improved blood supply to the Achilles repair, providing healing factors to the area of diseased tendon.

In summary, ruptures of the Achilles tendon are increasingly common in our aging yet increasingly active population. In cases where an Achilles rupture is missed or the rupture cannot be repaired directly under normal tension, adding the flexor hallicus longus tendon transfer allows for significantly improved results with a shorter recovery.

If you suffer from foot and ankle pain and would like to attend a free seminar, Dr. Yakavonis of ONS is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle surgery, and Greenwich Hospital will present Solutions for Foot & Ankle Pain: Beyond Foot Massage . He will present treatments and surgical techniques for bunions and other foot deformities. Learn more and register online here.

07/10/2019

ONS Physiatrist, Christopher Sahler, MD presents “Exercise as Treatment for Chronic Pain”

Posted on November 6, 2014

Christopher Sahler, MD of ONS and Greenwich Hospital, is an interventional physiatrist specializing in sports medicine. His focus is non-operative treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, restoring proper function, reducing pain and promoting active lifestyles.

If you are suffering from chronic pain, you are not alone. It is estimated that 100 million Americans are currently living with chronic pain. The pain may make it difficult just to get out of bed or do household chores, let alone be active and exercise. Studies have shown this inactivity can actually cause you to experience a worsened level of pain and for a longer period of time. Exercise actually improves your pain threshold. Even simple exercises such as walking can provide some benefit.

Join Dr. Sahler as he presents his first health Seminar “Exercise as Treatment for Chronic Pain” at Greenwich Hospital. Come learn how staying active and performing exercise may help treat an array of chronic pain conditions.

When: December 2nd, 2014
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Noble Auditorium at Greenwich Hospital

The program is free and open to the public. Registration Requested.
Call (203) 863-4277 or register online at www.greenhosp.org.

ONS Physiatrist, Christopher Sahler, MD on post New York City Marathon Tips for Runners

Posted on November 3, 2014

Christopher S. Sahler, MD of ONS is an interventional physiatrists specializing in sports medicine. His focus is non-operative treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, restoring proper function, reducing pain and promoting active lifestyles.

“Each year 50,000 people participate in the NYC marathon. If you are in that group and completed the race this past weekend, congratulations! It is an exciting accomplishment that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Now that the race is over, there are a few key points to remember that will help to maximize your recovery and minimize pain. Many athletes experience worsening soreness over the following days after the race. This is known as delayed onset muscle soreness and typically is most painful 48-72 hours later. After the race, your body is in a depleted state so it is important to take in plenty of water and healthy food. A combination of complex carbohydrates and protein help the muscles to repair themselves and re-build their energy stores. It is also recommended that you perform light, short duration activities such as walking, gentle jogging, biking, swimming etc. This helps to increase blood flow to the muscles and tissues that need the nutrients the most and helps to wash away the built up metabolic byproducts such as lactic acid. Gentle stretching and soaking in a warm bath may also help loosen up the muscles. Depending on your previous activity level, it is important to give your body time off before re-starting any intense exercise routines. Most runners should take at least one month off.

Congratulations again on the race!”

Dr. Sahler will present “Exercise as Treatment for Chronic Pain.” Learn how exercise can be used as a safe and effective treatment for chronic pain conditions. This free health seminar will be in the Noble Conference room at Greenwich Hospital Tuesday, December 2 at 6:00 p.m. To register call 203-863-4277 or register online at https://www.greenhosp.org/CREG/ClassDetails.aspx?sid=1&ClassID=5348

Do You Experience Foot or Ankle Pain?

Posted on October 30, 2014

Mark, Yakavonis, MD, MMS, will be speaking at the Noble in Greenwich Hospital December 9th at

6:30pm to address Solutions for Foot & Ankle Pain: Beyond Foot Massage. Here is a summary of what he will present:

A painful foot or ankle condition can limit a patient’s function and quality of life with every step. Conditions from the toes to the Achilles tendon will be discussed with emphasis on surgical and nonsurgical options, including old standards and the most cutting edge new technologies. Topics covered will include foot and toe deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, and high arches, with special attention to when and how these conditions should be treated or when they should be left alone. Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis will be discussed in detail with emphasis on the natural progression of the disease, what we know works and what is experimental. Arthritic conditions of the foot, ranging from the big toe to the ankle will be included.

A team approach is an important aspect of foot and ankle care. ONS physical therapist Alicia Hirscht, DPT, SCS, CSCS will discuss and answer questions about the role of physical therapy to improve foot and ankle pain and dysfunction.

ONS Senior Clinical Specialist Alicia Hirsch, DPT, SCS, CSCS

Dr. Yakavonis will introduce an orthotic maker he typically works with and will discuss when and how orthotics are used, from inexpensive over-the-counter inserts to custom molded prostheses. Other options to be discussed will include stem cell technology and image-guided injections.

Dr. Yakavonis will open up a question and answer session following the seminar. This event is free registration requested, call (203) 863-4277 or (888) 305-9253, or register online at: https://www.greenhosp.org/CREG/ClassDetails.aspx?sid=1&ClassID=7253

Foot Ankle Pain Brochure

07/10/2019

ONS Orthopedic Surgeon Seth Miller, MD, Elected to Join Elite Medical Society

Posted on October 28, 2014

At the October Closed Meeting of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), held in Pinehurst, NC, ONS (Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery Specialists) orthopedic surgeon Dr. Seth Miller was elected to join the ASES organization. “Membership in ASES is a privilege and an honor” said Dr. Jim Cunningham, ONS Vice President. Membership in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons is by invitation only. Only experienced orthopedic surgeons who have completed a fellowship in shoulder surgery, elbow surgery, and/or sports medicine are considered for membership.

Dr. Miller, in his 25^th year in practice at ONS in Greenwich, has ascended quickly in his career being recognized with such a national honor. Candidates must meet strict academic and clinical requirements to become members of ASES.

“ASES is a remarkable collection of like-minded surgeons, and researchers who, through their collaboration and the sharing of techniques and outcomes, work together to solve the most complicated and pressing shoulder and elbow disorders. Founded on the premise that by such sharing of ideas we can determine the most efficient, cost effective, high quality shoulder and elbow care” said Dr. Robert Bell, ASES President.

The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons was created to enhance the study of shoulder and elbow surgery and to foster advances in the field, serving as an educational body responsible for scientific programs and advances. The Mission of the ASES is to support the ethical practice of evidence-based, high quality, cost-effective, shoulder and elbow care.

The society global impact on quality shoulder and elbow care is achieved through leadership, medical education, scientific research, and patient advocacy. Congratulations to Dr. Miller on becoming an Associate Member of the society.

ONS is an advanced multi-specialty orthopedic and neurosurgery practice serving patients throughout Fairfield and Westchester Counties and the New York Metropolitan area. ONS physicians provide expertise in the full spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, sports medicine, minimally invasive orthopedic, spine and brain surgery, joint replacement and trauma. For more information, visit www.onsmd.com, or call (203) 869-1145.

ONS Physical Therapist, Betsy Kreuter on How Even Men Can Be Diagnosed with Osteoporosis!

Posted on October 10, 2014

ONS Physical Therapist Betsy Kreuter, PT, CLT

According to The National Osteoporosis Foundation, as our population ages, even more men will be diagnosed with osteoporosis. As many as one in four men over the age of fifty are more likely to break a bone due to osteoporosis than they are to get prostate cancer. Approximately 2 million American men already have osteoporosis. About 12 million more are at risk. Many of the risk factors that put women at risk apply to men as well. For example family history, smoking, drinking too much alcohol, not exercising, taking steroid medicines, and having low testosterone levels are all risk factors for men. Visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation to learn more about men and osteoporosis.

There are things you can do to minimize your risk factors for osteoporosis. Speak to your physical therapist for recommendations on exercises and instructions in proper posture and body mechanics.

To learn more about osteoporosis, bone anatomy, fracture prevention exercises to promote bone health, updates on treatments, measures to promote strong bones and personal risk factors, attend a free health seminar on October 14, 2014 at Greenwich Hospital in the Noble Conference Room. Orthopedic surgeon Steven Hindman, MD, endocrinologist Renee Ileva, MD and physical therapist Betsy Kreuter, PT, CLT will present a free health seminar and answer questions. For more information and to register visit https://www.greenhosp.org/CREG/ClassDetails.aspx?sid=1&ClassID=6881

ONS Physical Therapist Betsy Kreuter’s P is for Posture When Sitting or During Chores!

Posted on October 3, 2014

Most Americans spend too much time sitting and should take advantage of these tips to help keep good posture.

First, when sitting in a chair make sure your buttocks is all the way to the back of the chair. Using a lumbar roll in the small of your back will help to keep optimal alignment.

Second, if you sit at a computer, your monitor should be at eye level, feet firmly on floor, hands and wrists in a straight line, shoulders back and elbows at 90 degrees. A break from sitting every 30 minutes will relieve your back of stresses placed on it while sitting. For a more detailed guide to improve seated posture, download Work Station Ergonomics as a reference.

Posture is equally important when doing chores. While working, make sure your lower back is in a neutral position to avoid a forward curve in your spine. Watching your posture over the years will help avoid vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis, or thinning bones, can result in painful fractures. Risk factors for osteoporosis include aging, being female, low body weight, low sex hormones or menopause, smoking, and some medications.

To learn more about osteoporosis, bone anatomy, fracture prevention exercises to promote bone health, updates on treatments, measures to promote strong bones and personal risk factors, register to attend a free health seminar on October 14, 2014 at Greenwich Hospital in the Noble Conference Room. The panel of speaker include ONS Orthopedic Surgeon Steven Hindman, MD, Greenwich Hospital Endocrinologist Renee Ileva, MD and ONS Physical Therapist Betsy Kreuter, PT, CLT . After the seminar you will be able to ask the doctors and therapist questions.