Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization. Without enough vitamin D, bones become soft, weak, and more prone to fracture. Adults generally need 600 to 2,000 IU daily, and many people in Southern California are deficient despite living in a sunny climate.
Trigger finger is a condition where inflammation narrows the tendon sheath in a finger, causing it to catch or lock when bent. Treatment ranges from rest and splinting to corticosteroid injections or minor surgery, depending on severity and how long symptoms have been present.
Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure that removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replaces them with metal and plastic implants. Most patients return to walking within days and resume normal activities within three to six months.
You may be a candidate for knee replacement if you have severe knee arthritis with persistent pain, stiffness, and functional limitation that has not improved with medications, injections, or physical therapy over several months. A formal evaluation including X-rays is required to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether you are ready for surgery.
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury affecting the rubbery cartilage discs that cushion the joint. Treatment depends on the size, location, and pattern of the tear, along with the patient's age and activity level.
