The Mako Robotic Arm System being used in an operating room.

Understanding the Mako Robotic Arm System: How It Works and What Procedures It Is Used For

The Mako Robotic Arm System being used in an operating room.

Joint replacement surgery has come a long way. What was once a major undertaking involving large incisions and lengthy recovery times is now becoming increasingly precise and minimally invasive, thanks to innovative technologies like the Mako Robotic Arm System. This cutting-edge technology is transforming the way surgeons perform hip and knee replacements, offering patients the potential for less pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes.

Mako Robotic Arm: A New Era of Precision in Joint Replacement

The Mako Robotic Arm System is a robotic-assisted surgical platform that allows surgeons to plan and perform joint replacement procedures with greater accuracy and control than ever before. It combines three key elements to achieve its remarkable precision:

  1. 3D Modeling:Before surgery, a CT scan of your joint is used to create a 3D model of your anatomy. This personalized model allows the surgeon to plan the ideal implant size, position, and alignment for your specific needs.
  2. Robotic Guidance:During surgery, the surgeon guides the robotic arm, which acts as a steady and precise hand. The robotic arm provides real-time feedback and adjustments.
  3. Minimally Invasive Approach:The Mako System allows for smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissues. This means less pain, faster recovery, and a reduced risk of complications.

Benefits of Mako Robotic Arm-Assisted Surgery

  1. Increased Accuracy:The Mako System helps surgeons achieve more accurate implant placement and alignment, which can improve joint stability, function, and longevity. It’s like building a house with a laser level, ensuring every brick is perfectly in place.
  2. Personalized Planning:The 3D modeling allows for a customized surgical plan tailored to your unique anatomy. It’s like getting a bespoke suit, ensuring a perfect fit for your body.
  3. Minimally Invasive:Smaller incisions and less tissue disruption lead to less pain, faster recovery, and reduced risk of complications. It’s like taking a scenic route instead of a bumpy road, making your recovery journey smoother and more comfortable.
  4. Improved Outcomes:Studies have shown that Mako-assisted surgery can result in better patient outcomes, including improved range of motion, reduced pain, and greater satisfaction. It’s like upgrading to a luxury car, enjoying a smoother and more enjoyable ride.

Which Procedures Can Be Performed with the Mako System?

The Mako Robotic Arm System.
The Mako Robotic Arm System allows for customized surgical planning and minimally invasive procedures, leading to faster recovery and improved patient outcomes.
The Mako Robotic Arm System.
The Mako Robotic Arm System allows for customized surgical planning and minimally invasive procedures, leading to faster recovery and improved patient outcomes.

The Mako Robotic Arm System is currently used for the following procedures:

  1. Total Hip Replacement:Replacing a damaged or arthritic hip joint with an artificial implant
  2. Partial Knee Replacement:Replacing only the damaged portion of the knee joint, preserving healthy bone and tissue
  3. Total Knee Replacement:Replacing the entire knee joint with an artificial implant

Experience the Mako Difference at Houston Physicians’ Hospital

If you’re considering hip or knee replacement surgery, the physicians at Houston Physicians Hospital are proud to offer Mako Robotic Arm-assisted surgery.

Learn more about robot-assisted surgery here at our hospital, and then you can scroll down and find an orthopedic surgeon in Webster, TX who works with robotics who’s right for you.

An elderly woman and a man smiling while looking out the window.

5 Mistakes to Avoid After Hip Replacement Surgery

An elderly woman and a man smiling while looking out the window.

Hip replacement surgery can be a life-changing procedure, offering relief from pain and restoring mobility. However, the journey to recovery requires careful attention and adherence to postoperative guidelines. Making certain mistakes after hip replacement surgery can hinder healing, increase the risk of complications, and delay your return to normal activities.

Here are five common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overdoing It Too Soon

While it’s important to stay active after hip replacement surgery, it’s equally important to avoid overexertion. Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding activity restrictions and gradually increase your activity level as you heal. Pushing yourself too hard too soon can strain the new hip joint and delay recovery.

2. Neglecting Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a vital component of hip replacement recovery. It helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip, improve range of motion, and restore mobility. Skipping physical therapy sessions or not following your therapist’s recommendations can hinder your progress and prolong recovery.

3. Ignoring Pain Signals

Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. While some discomfort is expected after surgery, don’t ignore persistent or worsening pain. Report any concerns to your surgeon promptly. Ignoring pain signals could mask a potential complication and delay appropriate treatment.

4. Disregarding Hip Precautions

A man using a walker while waiting at a bus stop.
Using support when walking helps prevent strain on the hip joint and ensures proper healing during recovery from hip replacement surgery.

After hip replacement surgery, your surgeon will likely advise you to follow certain hip precautions to protect the new joint. These precautions may include avoiding certain movements or positions that could put excessive stress on the hip. Disregarding these precautions can increase the risk of dislocation or other complications.

Recommended: Joint Camp

5. Delaying Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential for monitoring your progress and addressing any concerns. These appointments allow your surgeon to assess your healing, adjust your treatment plan if needed, and ensure you’re on track for a successful recovery. Delaying or skipping follow-up appointments can hinder your recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Your Path to a Smooth Recovery

Hip replacement surgery offers a new lease on life for many people with hip pain and mobility limitations. By avoiding these common mistakes and following your surgeon’s recommendations, you can optimize your recovery, minimize the risk of complications, and get back to enjoying an active and fulfilling life.

Your Recovery Is Our Priority

The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital are committed to providing exceptional care for patients undergoing hip replacement surgery in Webster.

On the Advanced Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence page, you can scroll down and find an orthopedic surgeon who’s right for you. Then click the link to visit their website and make an appointment.

Houston Physicians Hospital is also home to a dedicated team of physical therapists.

A young man holds his head in pain.

Concussion in Young Athletes: A Guide for Parents and Coaches

A young man holds his head in pain.

Youth sports are a fantastic way for kids to learn teamwork, build confidence, and stay active. But with the thrill of the game comes the risk of injury, and one of the most concerning injuries in young athletes is a concussion.

Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries that can have a significant impact on a child’s physical and cognitive health. Recognizing the signs of a concussion, seeking prompt medical attention, and ensuring a safe return to play are vital for protecting young athletes.

Understanding Concussions: The Invisible Injury

Concussions often go unnoticed because they don’t always involve a loss of consciousness. A concussion can occur from a direct blow to the head, face, or neck, or from a whiplash-type injury that causes the brain to shake inside the skull. This shaking can disrupt normal brain function, leading to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.

Recognizing the Signs

Concussion symptoms can vary from child to child, and some symptoms may not appear immediately.

It’s important for parents, coaches, and athletes to be aware of the potential signs of a concussion, which may include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Memory problems
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Changes in mood or behavior
  • Sleep disturbances

When to Seek Medical Attention

Never ignore a concussion. If you suspect a young athlete has a concussion, seek medical attention immediately, even if the symptoms seem mild.

A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the concussion and provide guidance on proper management and recovery.

The Road to Recovery

Rest is the cornerstone of concussion recovery. The brain needs time to heal after a concussion, and physical and mental rest are essential for recovery. Once symptoms have resolved, a gradual return-to-play protocol can be implemented under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This protocol involves a step-by-step increase in activity levels, with close monitoring for any recurrence of symptoms.

Prevention Is Key

A young football player runs on a football field.
Proper equipment, like well-fitting helmets, plays a vital role in reducing the risk of concussion during youth sports activities.

Preventing concussions is a top priority in youth sports.

Strategies for reducing concussion risk include:

  • Proper Equipment:Ensure athletes are using appropriate protective gear, such as helmets and mouthguards, that fit correctly and are in good condition.
  • Rules Enforcement:Enforce rules that promote safe play and discourage dangerous behavior that could lead to head injuries.
  • Education:Educate athletes, parents, and coaches about concussions, including how to recognize symptoms and the importance of reporting any suspected head injuries.
  • Strength and Conditioning:Strengthening neck muscles can help reduce the risk of a concussion.

Protecting young athletes from concussions is a shared responsibility among parents, coaches, healthcare providers, and the athletes themselves. By working together, we can create a safer environment for youth sports and ensure that young athletes can enjoy the benefits of sports without compromising their health and well-being.

Protecting Young Minds and Bodies

The physicians at Webster Surgical Hospital are committed to the health and well-being of young athletes. They provide comprehensive care for concussions in young athletes, including diagnosis, treatment, and guidance on safe return-to-play protocols.

On the Concussion Program page, you can scroll down and find an orthopedic sports physician who’s right for you. Then click the link to visit their website and make an appointment.

The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital also treat neck pain, shoulder pain, and hip joint pain, Back Surgery in Webster, TX

A woman stretching on a park bench promoting spine health and flexibility.

Resolutions for a Healthy Back: Tips for Maintaining Spine Health in 2025

A woman stretching on a park bench promoting spine health and flexibility.

Your spine is the backbone of your body, literally and figuratively. It provides support, structure, and flexibility, allowing you to move, bend, and twist.

But all too often, we take our spine health for granted until pain or injury strikes.

As we embark on the new year, let’s make a resolution to prioritize our spine health and take proactive steps to prevent back pain and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

Why Spine Health Matters

A healthy spine is essential for overall well-being. Your spine supports your posture, protects your spinal cord and nerves, and allows for a wide range of movement. When your spine is healthy, you can perform routine activities from playing sports to simply bending down to tie your shoes, without pain or limitations.

Resolutions for a Healthy Back

Here are some resolutions to consider for maintaining spine health in the new year:

1. Move with Purpose

Regular exercise is essential for a healthy back. Aim for a combination of strengthening exercises, flexibility exercises, and aerobic activity.

Strengthening exercises, like planks and back extensions, help build the muscles that support your spine. Flexibility exercises, like yoga, improve range of motion and reduce stiffness. Aerobic activities, like walking, swimming, and cycling, promote cardiovascular health and overall fitness.

2. Practice Proper Posture

Maintaining good posture throughout the day can significantly reduce strain on your spine. Whether you’re sitting, standing, or lifting objects, be mindful of your posture and avoid slouching or hunching over.

3. Ergonomics in Action

If you spend long hours sitting at a desk, make sure your workstation is ergonomically designed to support your spine. Use a chair with good lumbar support, adjust your monitor to eye level, and take frequent breaks to stretch and move around.

4. Nourish Your Spine

A caregiver assisting an elderly man with taking supplements to support bone and spine health.

A healthy diet provides the building blocks for strong bones and muscles, which are essential for supporting your spine. Ensure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D, either through your diet or by taking supplements.

Calcium-rich foods include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods. Vitamin D is produced by the body through sun exposure and can also be obtained through eating fatty fish, eggs, and fortified foods.

5. Stop Smoking

Smoking is detrimental to your health in numerous ways, and your spine is no exception. Smoking reduces blood flow to the spine, which can impair the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the discs and vertebrae. This can lead to accelerated degeneration of the spine and increase the risk of back pain and injuries.

If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your spine health.

Your Path to a Healthy Spine

A healthy spine is the foundation for an active and fulfilling life. By making these resolutions and taking proactive steps to maintain your spine health, you may reduce your risk of back pain, improve your mobility, and enjoy what life has to offer.

If you’re seeking to improve your spine health or find relief from back pain, the physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital offer comprehensive spine care.

On the Spine Solutions Center page, you can scroll down to find a Spine Specialist in Webster TX who’s right for you. Then click the link to their website to make an appointment.

A man doing a punching exercise in his living room, focusing on mobility and joint health.

Joint Pain Resolutions: Start the Year with Less Pain and More Mobility

A man doing a punching exercise in his living room, focusing on mobility and joint health.

As the new year begins, many of us are setting resolutions for self-improvement, and what better goal to strive for than a life with less pain and more mobility?

If you’re one of the millions of people living with joint pain, this year can be the year you take control of your discomfort and reclaim your active lifestyle.

Joint pain can stem from various causes, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, injuries, and overuse. It can affect people of all ages, limiting their ability to participate in activities they enjoy and impacting their overall quality of life.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right strategies and support, you can manage your joint pain and achieve your resolution for a more comfortable and active year.

Resolutions for Joint Health

Here are some resolutions to consider for improving your joint health in the new year:

1. Stay Active

While it may seem counterintuitive, staying active is vital for managing joint pain. Regular exercise helps strengthen the muscles that support your joints, improves flexibility, and reduces stiffness.

Aim for low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga, which are gentle on the joints.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight puts extra stress on your joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce joint pain and improve mobility.

3. Optimize Your Diet

Certain foods can contribute to inflammation, which can worsen joint pain. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.

Recommended Read: The Ultimate Arthritis Diet

4. Protect Your Joints

Be mindful of your posture and body mechanics during daily activities. Use proper lifting techniques, avoid repetitive motions that can strain your joints, and use assistive devices if needed.

5. Manage Stress

Stress can exacerbate joint pain. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

6. Seek Professional Guidance

If your joint pain is persistent or severe, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A healthcare professional can assess your condition, diagnose the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

7. Explore Treatment Options

Various treatment options are available for Joint Pain treatments near NASA TX, ranging from lifestyle modifications and physical therapy to medications and surgery. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment based on your individual needs.

8. Stay Informed

Stay informed about the latest research and advancements in joint pain management. Attend workshops, read articles, and talk to your doctor about new treatment options that may be available.

9. Set Realistic Goals

A man writing in a notebook, setting goals for managing joint pain and improving mobility.

Don’t expect overnight miracles. Set realistic goals for managing your joint pain and gradually increase your activity levels as your pain improves.

10. Don’t Give Up

Managing joint pain is an ongoing process. There may be setbacks along the way, but don’t give up on your resolutions for a healthier, more active year.

Your Journey to Joint Health Starts Now

Joint pain can be a challenging condition, but it doesn’t have to control your life. By making joint health a priority in the new year, you can take significant steps toward reducing pain, improving mobility, and living a more fulfilling life.

If you’re seeking relief from joint pain and want to improve your mobility, the physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital offer comprehensive care with a focus on personalized treatment plans.

On the Advanced Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence page, you can scroll down to find an orthopedic Specialist in Webster TX who’s right for you. Then click the link to their website to make an appointment.