Category: Newsletter

MRI, X-Ray, CT: What’s the Difference?

If your doctor has ever recommended an imaging test, you may have found yourself wondering: What exactly is the difference between an MRI, an X-ray, and a CT scan? These medical terms often sound interchangeable, but each test is designed to do something unique. At The Orthopaedic Center (TOC), we want our patients to feel informed and confident about their care. Here’s a simple explanation of how these imaging tools compare and why your doctor might suggest one over the others.

 

X-Ray

X-rays are often the first step when looking into orthopedic problems. They are quick, easy, and very effective at showing bones. Using a very small amount of radiation, X-rays create images that can reveal fractures, dislocations, arthritis, and other changes in bone structure. You can think of an X-ray like a snapshot. It captures the big picture of what is happening with your bones, but it does not show the finer details of soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, or tendons.

 

MRI

When more detail is needed, an MRI is usually the best choice. Unlike X-rays, MRIs do not use radiation. Instead, they use powerful magnets and radio waves to produce very detailed images. This makes MRIs especially helpful for looking at soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and nerves. If you are dealing with a sports injury, a possible torn ACL, or a herniated disc, an MRI can help your doctor see exactly what is going on. If an X-ray is like a snapshot, an MRI is more like a blueprint that shows depth and detail.

 

CT

A CT scan, which stands for computed tomography, provides yet another layer of information. CT scans use multiple X-rays and advanced computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. This produces a three-dimensional view that is particularly useful for complex bone fractures, spine conditions, or surgical planning. Imagine a CT scan as flipping through the pages of a book, each page showing a new slice of what is happening inside the body. This makes it easier for doctors to understand injuries that involve both bones and soft tissues.
So how do you know which test is right for you? That depends on your situation. Your physician at TOC will recommend the option that provides the clearest answers for your specific condition. They will consider the part of the body that needs to be examined, whether the focus should be on bones or soft tissues, and how much detail is needed for diagnosis and treatment. Each imaging tool has its own strengths, and your doctor’s goal is always to choose the one that will help guide the best care plan for you.

At The Orthopaedic Center, we pair advanced imaging technology with the expertise of our board-certified physicians. That means you are not just getting the right test but also the right interpretation of the results. Our goal is to provide clarity so you can move forward with confidence and get back to doing what you love

 

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How to Prevent Common Sports Injuries in Kids & Teens 

Sports are a fantastic way for kids and teens to stay active, build teamwork skills, and develop lifelong healthy habits. However, with physical activity comes the risk of injury. Whether your child is a budding athlete or simply enjoys playing recreational sports, understanding how to prevent common injuries can keep them safe and performing at their best.

Most Common Sports Injuries in Kids & Teens

Some of the most frequent sports-related injuries among young athletes include:

  • Sprains & Strains: Overstretching or tearing of ligaments, muscles, and tendons often occur due to sudden movements or inadequate warm-ups.
  • Fractures: Broken bones from falls, collisions, or impact during contact sports.
  • ACL Tears & Knee Injuries: Common in sports that involve jumping, pivoting, or sudden direction changes (e.g., basketball, soccer, and football).
  • Concussions: Head injuries that occur in contact sports such as football, soccer, and cheerleading.
  • Overuse Injuries: Repetitive motion injuries, such as stress fractures and tendinitis, often develop when young athletes don’t allow enough time for recovery.

Top Injury Prevention Tips

The good news is that many of these injuries can be prevented with the proper precautions. Here are key strategies to help keep athletes safe:

  1. Warm Up & Cool Down Properly 
    A proper warm-up prepares the body for activity, reducing the risk of strains and muscle injuries. Encourage your child to start with dynamic stretching and light aerobic exercises before practice or a game. Cooling down with static stretches afterward helps prevent stiffness and aids in recovery.
  2.  Strength & Conditioning Matters 
    Building strong muscles and improving flexibility can reduce the risk of injuries. Strength training (using body weight or resistance bands) and balance exercises can enhance stability and minimize falls. Exercises that focus on core and leg strength are especially beneficial in preventing knee and ankle injuries.
  3. Use Proper Gear & Equipment 
    Wearing sport-specific protective gear, such as helmets, shin guards, mouthguards, and supportive footwear, can significantly reduce injury risks. Ensure that all equipment is the right size and in good condition.
  4. Teach & Practice Proper Technique 
    Coaches, trainers, and teachers should emphasize correct form and technique in every physical activity. Whether it’s tackling in football, landing from a jump in gymnastics, swinging a bat in baseball, or lifting weights in gym class, using proper technique can prevent unnecessary strain and impact injuries.
  5. Avoid Overuse Injuries by Allowing Rest 
    Playing the same sport year-round can lead to overuse injuries. Encourage cross-training with different activities to work various muscle groups and allow for adequate rest. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends taking at least one to two days off per week from intense physical activity.
  6. Stay Hydrated & Eat a Balanced Diet 
    Dehydration and poor nutrition can increase the risk of cramps, fatigue, and poor performance, all of which may lead to injuries. Young athletes should drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes before, during, and after exercise, especially in extreme temperatures. A diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates helps fuel their bodies and supports muscle recovery. Additionally, supplementing with vitamin D3 can help promote strong bones and overall bone health.
  7. Listen to Your Body & Don’t Play Through Pain 
    If a young athlete experiences persistent pain, swelling, or discomfort, they should not just brush it off. They should take a break, rest for at least a week, rather than just a few days, and seek medical attention if the symptoms don’t improve. When returning to a sport or activity, a gradual increase in workload is crucial, especially after a break. Jumping back in too quickly can overload growing joints and muscles. Easing back in can help prevent long-term damage and keep athletes healthy for the season ahead.

What to Do If an Injury Happens

Even with the best precautions, injuries can still occur. When they do, follow these steps:

  • Rest: Avoid using the injured area to prevent further damage.
  • Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain (20 minutes at a time).
  • Compression: Use a wrap or brace to provide support.
  • Elevation: Keep the injured limb elevated to minimize swelling.
  • Seek Professional Care: If the injury is severe or persistent, consult an orthopedic specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

TOC: Your Trusted Partner

At The Orthopaedic Center (TOC), our team of Pediatric and Sports Medicine specialists are dedicated to helping young athletes stay healthy and perform at their best. Whether it’s injury prevention, treatment, or rehabilitation, we’re here to provide expert care.

If your child has experienced a sports injury or needs a consultation, contact TOC today to schedule an appointment. Let’s keep our kids strong, safe, and ready to play!

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If you found this guide helpful, share it with other parents, coaches, and young athletes to promote safety in youth sports!

Meet the Newest Physicians at TOC

Meet the Newest Physicians at TOC: Leaders in Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

At The Orthopaedic Center (TOC), we are proud to welcome three exceptional new physicians to our team, each bringing advanced expertise, compassionate care, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. From complex trauma and joint reconstruction to non-surgical sports medicine, these specialists are here to help you move better and live stronger.

 

Wesley Honeycutt, MD

Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery

Born and raised in Huntsville, Dr. Wesley Honeycutt returns home with world-class training and a mission to serve. A fellowship-trained orthopaedic trauma surgeon, Dr. Honeycutt specializes in complex fracture care, pelvis and acetabular reconstruction, and nonunion fracture revision. After earning his medical degree and completing residency at the University of South Alabama, he trained at Emory University’s Grady Memorial Hospital, one of the nation’s busiest Level I trauma centers.

Dr. Honeycutt also brings invaluable experience from his service in the U.S. Air Force, where he treated high-acuity trauma at Brooke Army Medical Center and trained military medical personnel. With numerous academic presentations, published research, and a heart for community service, Dr. Honeycutt is dedicated to restoring mobility and hope for patients across North Alabama.

 

 

Cody Russell, MD

Sports Medicine

Dr. Cody Russell joins TOC with a passion for keeping athletes and active individuals at their best. A former collegiate decathlete, Dr. Russell brings personal insight and professional excellence to his work in non-surgical sports medicine. After completing medical school at East Tennessee State University and residency in Emergency Medicine, he pursued fellowship training in Primary Care Sports Medicine at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

Dr. Russell has cared for athletes at every level, from the Cleveland Browns and Ironman Florida and will be with high school teams right here in Huntsville. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, he focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal injuries without surgery, helping patients of all ages return to the activities they love with confidence and care.

 

John David Murphy, DO, MBA

General Orthopaedics 

Dr. John David Murphy brings high-level expertise in joint replacement and limb preservation to TOC and Huntsville Hospital. A North Alabama native, Dr. Murphy earned his medical degree from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine and holds an MBA from Troy University. He completed his orthopaedic residency in Tampa Bay, followed by an advanced fellowship in Adult Limb Reconstruction at UAB.

With special interests in robotic-assisted surgery, primary and revision total joint arthroplasty, and innovative surgical technologies, Dr. Murphy is committed to delivering personalized, evidence-based care to patients with joint degeneration or complex orthopaedic needs. His return to the region reflects his dedication to serving his community with skill, heart, and a deep respect for every patient’s journey toward healing.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic joint pain, or seeking non-surgical treatment, our newest physicians bring unmatched training and a shared commitment to improving lives through expert orthopaedic care.

 

 

 

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