Mark Vitale, MD

Joint Arthritis at the 6th Annual ONSF Medical Education Conference on Saturday, November 8th. Orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, radiologists, sports medicine specialists, physiatrists and physical therapists will present topics related to treatment of musculoskeletal issues unique to females. 

Dr. Vitale will discuss hand and wrist problem unique to the female patient. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which increased pressure around one of the nerves in the wrist (the median nerve) causes numbness in the fingers and sometimes weakness of the thumb muscles. Fluid retention during pregnancy can cause swelling in the tunnel and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in women, which often goes away after delivery.  De Quervain’s tendinitis is a different problem caused by irritation or inflammation of the wrist tendons at the base of the thumb. The inflammation causes the compartment (sheath) around the tendon to swell and enlarge, making thumb and wrist movement painful. This condition has also been called “new mother’s tendinitis” because picking up an infant often creates swelling and inflammation of these tendons. Basal joint arthritis of the thumb is a type of arthritis in which the cartilage surfaces between the base of the thumb and the wrist wears out and causes pain and stiffness. It is common in women over the age of 40, and it is 7 times more common in women than men, which is believed to be due to increased ligament laxity and hormonal differences in women. Dr. Vitale will discuss further the reasons why women are prone to these problems and treatment options.

The 6^th Annual ONSF Medical Education Conference will focus on treatment of musculoskeletal issues unique to females. Keynote speaker Joan Lunden, renowned author, journalist and TV host, will share her perspectives on women’s health.