Berkshire Orthopedics LLC

A Division of Keystone Orthopaedic Specialists, LLC

Contact Us: 610-375-4949

Dr. Soffer

What is Involved in a Surgical Trigger Finger Procedure?

by Leave a Comment

trigger finger procedure

Stenosing tenosynovitis is known as “trigger finger” due to its trademark symptom of the affected finger or thumb being locked in a bent position and then snapping straight with a motion similar to a trigger being pulled and let go. This condition can be very painful and restrictive, prompting many patients to search for an effective treatment. Read on for an overview of possible therapies, including surgical trigger finger procedure options for cases in which symptoms do not resolve with nonsurgical treatment.

What Is Involved in a Surgical Trigger Finger Procedure?

Trigger finger may develop as a result of inflammation in the tendon sheath of a finger or thumb. In the event that first-line treatments (resting the affected digit, taking anti-inflammatory medication, wearing a splint and performing stretching exercises) fail to provide relief, surgery may be the next recommended step in a patient’s treatment plan.

There is one main type of trigger finger release surgery:

  • Open surgery – To perform open surgery for trigger finger, an orthopedic surgeon creates a small incision in the palm, providing access to the affected tendon. The risk of complications is very low with this method, giving it preference in some cases.

The purpose of this procedure is to create more room for movement of the constricted flexor tendon in the affected digit, thus allowing the patient to bend and use the digit freely and without pain. The procedure has a relatively short recovery time (typically between 3-6 months) and has been shown to be safe and effective.

Get World-Class Orthopedic Care Locally in Reading, PA

Wondering if you may be a good candidate for trigger finger release surgery? Dr. Stephen Soffer is here to help you explore your options and find the best treatment to get you back to normal, painless hand and finger movement. 

Along with a list of other achievements and high-level training experiences, Dr. Soffer completed a sports medicine fellowship with renowned sports medicine surgeon Dr. James Andrews. In addition to prestigious, skilled treatment, he prides himself on offering compassionate and individualized care. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Soffer, call our Wyomissing, PA office at 610-375-4949.

Carpal Tunnel and Arthritis: What’s the Difference?

by Leave a Comment

Like carpal tunnel, arthritis can affect both the hands and the wrists. In some cases, arthritis may even contribute to the development of carpal tunnel. Still, the two conditions are distinct – but because their symptoms commonly overlap, patients often wonder how to tell which one they are experiencing. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between carpal tunnel and arthritis.

Carpal Tunnel and Arthritis: What’s the Difference?

Carpal tunnel is a syndrome that originates from repetitive movement or inflammation of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel space, a passageway connecting the hand and wrist. Arthritis, on the other hand, is a condition that develops in one or more joints due to wear and tear, inflammation, repetitive movement and/or joint damage. Depending on the specific type of arthritis an individual has, their symptoms may vary.

To determine whether discomfort in your wrist/hand region is coming from carpal tunnel or arthritis, consider:

  • Where are your symptoms concentrated? Carpal tunnel symptoms are typically most prominent in the thumb, forefinger and middle finger, although they may extend to the entire hand/wrist and up the arm to the shoulder and neck. Arthritis typically affects the finger joints and the base of the thumb. 
  • Do you experience numbness and tingling in your thumb/fingers? This is a textbook sign of carpal tunnel. Wrist arthritis is more commonly associated with tenderness, swelling and stiffness, while both conditions can cause weakness in the affected wrist(s).
  • When is your discomfort the worst? Carpal tunnel symptoms typically worsen with activities like writing or typing, as well as in the morning/at night. Arthritis is marked by joint pain with movement and stiffness upon waking up.

As mentioned above, wrist arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome can have similarities and may even occur simultaneously, so it can be tricky to pinpoint which condition is causing your symptoms. If you are bothered by ongoing discomfort and reduced function in your wrists or other joints, an experienced orthopedic physician can perform an examination to differentiate between carpal tunnel and arthritis, allowing them to recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. 

Visit Dr. Soffer for Cutting-Edge Orthopedic Care in Reading, PA

Whether you are suffering from carpal tunnel, arthritis or another orthopedic condition, you can count on Dr. Stephen Soffer for compassionate and highly skilled care. Having completed high-level training including a sports medicine fellowship with world-famous orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews, Dr. Soffer is equipped to diagnose and treat the full range of orthopedic issues and injuries. 

Specializing in both nonoperative and operative therapies, he individualizes treatment to each particular patient and their unique lifestyle and situation. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Soffer, call our office at 610-375-4949.

Is There a Non Surgical Treatment for Trigger Finger?

by Leave a Comment

non surgical treatment for trigger finger

When an individual’s finger or thumb gets stuck in a bent position – known as trigger finger – this can be very painful and disruptive to their daily activities. The formal name for this condition is stenosing tenosynovitis, but it is nicknamed “trigger finger” because the affected digit may bend/straighten in a snapping motion, calling to mind a trigger being pulled and released. Those experiencing this condition may wish to explore non surgical treatment for trigger finger with an orthopedic expert. 

Is There a Non Surgical Treatment for Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger develops due to inflammation in the affected digit’s tendon sheath, which may lead to some or all of the following symptoms:

  • Restricted movement
  • Digit stiffness/palm tenderness
  • Popping/clicking with attempted movement 
  • A bump at the base of the digit 

The good news is, there are numerous options for non surgical treatment for trigger finger. Conservative strategies that an orthopedic specialist may suggest to help restore normal finger function include:

  • Taking time off from activities that involve grasping/gripping
  • Managing pain and discomfort with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
  • Doing stretching exercises to increase finger flexibility and mobility 
  • Wearing a finger splint to reduce strain on the tendon 

While many patients report a major improvement in their symptoms after trying these first-line treatments, it’s wise to be under the care of a trained orthopedic surgeon in case they fail to provide full relief. In this case, trigger finger release surgery or steroid injections may be the next recommended step in the patient’s treatment plan.

Get Attentive, Individualized Orthopedic Care from Dr. Soffer 

For patients in the Reading, PA area, Dr. Stephen Soffer offers a full range of nonsurgical and surgical treatments to help resolve pain and dysfunction caused by trigger finger. His extensive training included a sports medicine fellowship with world-famous orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews, under whom he learned how to provide advanced orthopedic care. Dr. Soffer is also board certified in orthopedic surgery. 

If you’d like to learn more about him and schedule an appointment, you can reach our office at 610-375-4949.

How to Find the Best Elbow Specialist Near Me

by Leave a Comment

Elbow discomfort is no fun. What’s more, if it’s severe and ongoing, elbow pain can begin to interfere with your daily life, occupation and hobbies. If you’re suffering from an elbow issue that isn’t resolving, it may be time to locate the best elbow specialist near me. In this case, you might wonder how to go about finding a skilled orthopedic expert who truly cares about your recovery and wellbeing. Keep reading to learn what to look for to identify a qualified provider.

How to Find the Best Elbow Specialist Near Me

To receive the very best care for an elbow injury or condition, locate a physician who is:

  • Board certified – This certification verifies that a doctor has passed a specialty-specific exam assessing their clinical knowledge, skills and training. Maintaining board certification from the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery – as Dr. Stephen Soffer does – indicates that the provider is up to date on the latest and most advanced orthopedic treatments.
  • Equipped to provide both nonsurgical & surgical treatments – In some cases, elbow issues can be solved through a strategic combination of conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication and rest. However, patients with certain elbow conditions may require surgery. Thus, it’s wise to visit an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Soffer from the start in case your condition ultimately necessitates surgical intervention.

Along with seeking out these credentials, it’s important to factor in the doctor’s personality and care philosophy in order to find the all-around “best elbow specialist near me.” Take a look at their patient testimonials to make sure they have a reputation for providing the high level of care you deserve.

Depend On Dr. Soffer for State-of-the-Art Elbow Care, In or Near Reading, PA

If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain, stiffness, swelling or dysfunction, trust Dr. Soffer to help you address it with an effective, individualized treatment plan. As one of the nation’s foremost elbow experts, Dr. Soffer completed a sports medicine fellowship and co-authored the first elbow arthroscopy textbook published in the US with Dr. James Andrews. 

Dr. Soffer is recognized for his skill in performing arthroscopic surgery, as well as for offering compassionate treatment to patients of all ages and life roles. To schedule an appointment with him, call our office at 610-375-4949.

Possible Causes of Shoulder Pain and Popping

by Leave a Comment

The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint made up of several interconnected parts. When one or more of the structures becomes inflamed, injured or displaced, it can lead to discomfort and dysfunction. In this article, we’ll outline some possible causes of shoulder pain and popping, which are two commonly reported symptoms associated with shoulder injuries and conditions.

Possible Causes of Shoulder Pain and Popping

Inside the shoulder are ligaments, tendons, cartilage, bone and fluid-filled sacs called synovial bursae, which facilitate normal shoulder function and smooth motion between the other components. The tissues in the shoulder can become irritated for a number of reasons, ranging from overuse to sports injuries to trauma from an accident or fall. 

If you’re experiencing discomfort and/or a popping/cracking sensation in your shoulder, you may be wondering about potential causes of shoulder pain and popping. A few common culprits of these shoulder symptoms include:

For any of these issues, an experienced orthopedic surgeon can pinpoint what is causing your shoulder problem and recommend the right course of treatment. After a shoulder injury, it’s wise to see an orthopedic expert as soon as possible to prevent symptoms from worsening and the problem from becoming more difficult to treat.

Reading, PA Area Patients Depend On Dr. Soffer for Top-Notch Shoulder Care 

Offering all the latest and most advanced operative and nonoperative treatments for orthopedic injuries and conditions, Dr. Stephen Soffer strives to help Reading, PA area patients resolve their symptoms with the least invasive treatment methods possible. His extensive training included a sports medicine fellowship with world-famous orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews, with whom he has co-authored textbook chapters on treatments for knee, shoulder and elbow issues. 

Shoulder pain can seriously disrupt your everyday life, from your job to your favorite pastimes. Fortunately, Dr. Soffer is here to offer you world-class shoulder care to help you get back to normal. Call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule an appointment to obtain an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan.

Can You Still Walk with a Torn Meniscus?

by Leave a Comment

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that may cause pain, swelling and sometimes even a “locking” sensation in the affected knee. Whether a meniscus injury happens due to an isolated incident or degeneration of the knee cartilage over time, it can interfere with a person’s ability to go about their daily life and be active. A common question about this injury is: “Can you still walk with a torn meniscus?” The answer will depend on the severity of the injury and other individual factors, but there is a chance that a meniscus tear may cause pain when walking. In this article, we’ll elaborate on the potential impacts of a torn meniscus and detail possible treatment options. 

Can You Still Walk with a Torn Meniscus?

Meniscus tear symptoms can differ on a case-by-case basis. More minor tears may come with only mild discomfort and swelling, whereas more severe meniscal injuries may compromise a person’s ability to comfortably perform their daily routine, occupation and/or hobbies. Generally, patients report worse pain from squatting or twisting motions, which put pressure on the knee. 

Over time, a meniscus tear may become more severe and cause further damage if left untreated. Further, certain activities may cause symptoms to flare up. Some patients might find it difficult and painful to climb stairs, or even to get out of bed. 

Ultimately, the specific symptoms and the answer to “can you still walk with a torn meniscus?” will depend on the individual patient’s circumstances. This includes:

  • The size & severity (grade) of the tear
  • The nature/pattern of the tear (radial, horizontal, etc.)
  • The location of the tear (medial or lateral)
  • The patient’s age
  • The patient’s activity level
  • The patient’s overall health status 

Along with influencing the extent of the injury’s impacts, this list will also factor in when it comes to determining the most appropriate treatment options. Conservative therapies like rest, medication and avoidance of symptom-triggering activities may be sufficient to allow a smaller, less severe meniscus tear to become asymptomatic. Surgical meniscus repair is more likely to be needed for a larger, higher grade meniscus injury – or if the inner portion of the meniscus, which receives poor blood supply, is involved. 

Younger patients and active individuals generally consider surgical meniscus repair more often than older, less active patients for whom the issue does not significantly affect their quality of life. Surgery can speed the recovery process and maximize the chance of being able to fully resume recreational activities.

Trust Dr. Soffer for State-of-the-Art Knee Care 

If you’re dealing with bothersome knee symptoms, seeing an orthopedic expert promptly is key to ensure you get the professional, individualized treatment needed to resolve the issue. The Reading, PA area’s trusted knee specialist is Dr. Stephen Soffer.

Dr. Soffer has undergone extensive training in orthopedics, including a sports medicine fellowship with leading sports surgeon Dr. James Andrews. Patients of all ages count on him for skillful, compassionate treatment of knee issues, whether or not their condition necessitates surgery. To learn more and arrange an appointment with Dr. Soffer, call our office at 610-375-4949.

Schedule An Appointment With Us ›