Rathna Nuti MD

Let’s talk about this creative way to move your body…

INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE has incredible benefits for physical fitness AND mental well-being. However, it's important to be aware of potential injuries that can arise from this beautiful art form. Common issues include ankle sprains, knee pain, and muscle strains.

But these concerns shouldn’t shy you away from dancing! Just a friendly reminder to warm up beforehand to keep your body strong and flexible.

Here are three exercises I recommend to help keep you safe:

Ankle Circles: Stand on one leg and rotate the other ankle in circles, both clockwise and counterclockwise to improve mobility.

Dynamic Lunges: Step forward into a lunge, alternating legs to warm up the hips, quads, and hamstrings.

Shoulder Rolls: Roll your shoulders forward and backward for about 10 repetitions to loosen the upper body.

As always, listening to your body and allowing for adequate rest is crucial. Embrace the joy of dance while keeping your body safe and healthy!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Had an amazing time with my niece and nephews cheering on our favorite cricket team! Nothing beats family time filled with laughter, snacks, and unforgettable moments.

Can’t wait for the next game!

As the new school year begins, young athletes must prioritize their health by completing their sports physicals before the season starts. These exams are crucial for ensuring your children are fit to participate in sports, helping to identify any potential health issues that could impact their performance or safety on the field.

Scheduling a sports physical provides peace of mind for parents and allows coaches to ensure that all athletes are in optimal condition to compete. It’s a great opportunity to discuss training, nutrition, or injury prevention concerns with a healthcare professional.

Don’t wait until the last minute—make an appointment today to keep your athlete safe and ready for a successful season ahead!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Sharing pictures from when we threw a big party to celebrate my mom's 70TH BIRTHDAY!

It was a wonderful gathering with family and friends, filled with laughter, great food, and lots of love. Seeing everyone come together to honor her was truly special.

Happy 70th birthday, Mom! You mean the world to us, and we’re so grateful for you! Here’s to many more happy years ahead! 🥳❤️

I was recently featured in an article all about how to stay safe in this Texas heat. Let me tell you: it’s not always easy!!

In this piece, I state the most important factors for staying cool and safe from heat illness are ACCLIMATION, HYDRATION, AND SUN PROTECTION.

Slowly build up your tolerance for intense heat, drink plenty of water and electrolytes, and wear SPF and sun-protective clothing. Doing these things will reduce your risk of experiencing the negative effects of the heat and allow you to enjoy summer to the fullest!

Want to hear more of my tips and insights on staying safe in the heat? Read the article here: https://www.texasmonthly.com/style/how-to-dress-for-extreme-heat/

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Watching the 2024 Olympics, I'm reminded of my time on the training grounds in Colorado last year. The energy, determination, and passion of these elite athletes is truly awe-inspiring.

As a sports medicine physician, I had the privilege of supporting many of these competitors. I witnessed their unwavering commitment, grueling workouts, and relentless drive to reach the pinnacle of their sport.

Now, seeing these games unfold, I feel a deep sense of pride and excitement. These moments make all the hard work worthwhile – the chance to see human potential realized on the world's biggest stage. It's a humbling experience to be a part of this journey!!

The 2024 Olympics may be global, but for me, it will always be a deeply personal and inspiring experience.

Ever heard of a type of spinal injury called a compression fracture?

These painful breaks in the vertebrae can happen due to trauma, such as a fall, or due to conditions like osteoporosis that weaken the bones.

You may be wondering why I choose to talk about obscure injuries like these, and it’s because I want to spread awareness! Catching things like compression fractures early can set you up for better spine health as you age.

My preferred treatment for compression fractures is a minimally invasive procedure called kyphoplasty.

During this procedure, a small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated to restore the bone's normal height. Then a special cement is injected to stabilize the fracture and provide pain relief.

Kyphoplasty is an outpatient procedure that typically takes less than an hour, and most patients experience significant improvement in their back pain within 24-48 hours.

If you or a loved one is dealing with a compression fracture, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to discuss your treatment options and help you get back to feeling your best!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Let’s talk about why you NEED healthy vitamin D levels…

I can't stress enough how crucial vitamin D is for your overall health and performance. This "sunshine vitamin" plays a vital role in so many of your body's essential functions.

Vitamin D is necessary for:
🔷Strong, healthy bones
🔷Healthy immune function
🔷Reducing inflammation
🔷Reducing risk of infections
🔷Boosting muscle strength and athletic endurance

Despite its importance, vitamin D deficiency is incredibly common! That's why I recommend getting your levels checked regularly and supplementing if needed.

Aim for 15-30 minutes of direct sunlight a few times a week, and make sure your diet includes vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Are you practicing good sun safety? Keep reading to find out:

The general recommendation is to limit your continuous sun exposure to no more than 15-20 minutes at a time. After that, it's crucial to find some shade to allow your body to cool down and prevent overexposure. Factors like your skin tone, the UV index, and the intensity of the sun can impact how quickly you'll start to feel the effects of too much time in the rays.

Pay close attention to how your body is feeling. If you start to experience any signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating, get out of the sun immediately. It's better to err on the side of caution and take frequent breaks rather than pushing yourself too hard.

Remember, the key is moderation. You want to enjoy the summer sun, not suffer its consequences. So set a timer, find some shade when needed, and always keep that sunscreen handy!!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

These Texas temps are UNREAL! Who else is feeling the heat?

With summer in full swing, it's crucial to take the right precautions when exercising or spending time outdoors. Here are 3 simple tips to help you beat the heat:

☀️Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity. Avoid sugary, caffeinated beverages which can actually contribute to dehydration.

☀️Wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable. And don't forget a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes.

☀️Take breaks in the shade. If you start to feel overheated, find a shady spot to rest and cool down. Listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard in extreme heat.

Following these guidelines will help ensure you can enjoy all your favorite summer activities safely. As always, I'm here to help you stay healthy and active all season long.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Spending more time in the sun this summer? I want to make sure you're protecting your skin with the right sunscreen. There's a lot of confusion out there about the differences between CHEMICAL and MINERAL sunscreens – let me break it down for you.

☀️Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat that's released from the skin. They tend to be lightweight and easier to apply, but some people can experience irritation or allergic reactions.

☀️Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block and reflect UV rays. They're generally less irritating, making them a great choice for sensitive skin.

So which one should you use? If you have sensitive skin, rosacea, or conditions like eczema, I recommend sticking with a mineral sunscreen.

For most other people, either type can work well as long as you apply liberally and reapply often. The most important thing is making sun protection a daily habit to keep your skin healthy.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

It was an honor to be a covering team physician for the WNBA Dallas Wings and to witness Wednesday’s historic night in women’s sports! In the Wings’ matchup against Indiana Fever, rookie sensation Caitlin Clark broke a WNBA record: 19 assists within a SINGLE game.

At just 22 years old, Clark is already making her mark in the league in a very big way. As the first overall pick in this year's draft, she's been lighting it up all season long for the Fevers. Her performance last night was truly next-level.

It’s clear to me that Caitlin Clark is the future of the WNBA. Huge congratulations to her on making history and to the Dallas Wings on their win! What a game!

As we gear up to celebrate Independence Day, I want to share some important safety tips to keep in mind. Over the years, I've seen the injuries that can happen when proper precautions aren't taken during holiday festivities, and I don’t want them getting in the way of your fun!

Fireworks are a beloved summertime tradition, but they can be extremely dangerous, especially for children. My advice? Leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy public displays from a safe distance. The risk of burns, eye injuries, and even amputations simply isn't worth it.

If you do plan to light sparklers or other small fireworks, make sure to supervise kids closely and keep a bucket of water nearby. And never, ever try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks – that's a recipe for disaster.

Beyond fireworks, be mindful of other holiday hazards like swimming pools, grills, and even something as simple as dehydration in the summer heat. Stay hydrated, slather on the sunscreen, and know your limits when it comes to physical activity.

Have a happy and healthy Independence Day!!

Let’s talk about va**ng…

What many see as a "safer" alternative to ci******es is in fact just as harmful, if not more so, to your long-term health.

The chemicals and additives in va**ng products can cause serious lung damage, cardiovascular problems, and ni****ne addiction. And the myth that va**ng is harmless couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, studies show va**ng can lead to the same devastating health consequences as regular cigarette smoking.

I urge all parents to have open and honest conversations with your kids about the dangers of va**ng. Don't let them fall victim to the deceptive marketing tactics of the va**ng industry. Educate them on the real risks, and encourage them to make healthy choices that won't jeopardize their future.

Your health is too precious to compromise. Together, we can fight this epidemic and ensure a brighter, healthier future for our youth.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

As a sports medicine specialist, I often see patients who are confused about the difference between physical therapy and general exercise. Many think that their regular workouts are enough for rehabilitation, but the truth is, there's a CRUCIAL distinction.

Physical therapy is specifically tailored to your unique injury or condition and is designed to help you regain strength, mobility, and function in a safe, structured way. The exercises prescribed by your PT take into account your specific needs and limitations with the goal of facilitating your optimal recovery.

On the other hand, your typical gym routine, while beneficial for overall fitness, may not address the root causes or compilations that arise from an injury. That's where physical therapy shines: it's a specialized, hands-on approach that can't be replicated by general exercise alone.

So if you're dealing with an injury or chronic condition, don't hesitate to work closely with a physical therapist. Their expertise can make all the difference in getting you back to your best self.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

I’ll be honest…I'm deeply concerned about the growing trend of kids and teens consuming energy drinks.

These beverages are packed with high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants that can have serious consequences for young, developing bodies and minds.

The truth is that children have absolutely no need for the artificial "energy boost" that energy drinks provide. Their bodies and brains are designed to get the fuel they need from a balanced, nutritious diet. Consuming energy drinks can disrupt healthy sleep patterns, cause jitteriness, and even lead to long-term health issues down the line.

Instead of reaching for an energy drink, I encourage young patients and their families to focus on nourishing their bodies with wholesome, whole foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbs will give kids the sustainable energy they need to thrive. Their growing brains and bodies will thank you.

Remember, when it comes to your child's health, there's no substitute for real food. Steer clear of energy drinks and stick to time-tested, natural sources of fuel. Your kids' well-being is too important to compromise!!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

As a physician, I'm always striving to provide comprehensive, compassionate care for my patients. Recently, I was counseling a patient about his spinal cord stimulation procedure, and he brought up an important question…

"What do I do about s*x after the surgery?"

I know these types of intimate discussions can feel awkward, but the truth is, they're absolutely crucial for a full recovery, both physically and mentally. Intimacy is a natural part of the human experience, and it's my job as a physician to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my patients to address these concerns.

Whether you're recovering from an injury, or surgery, or managing a chronic condition, don't be afraid to have open conversations with your doctor. These frank discussions can actually empower you to make the best choices for your health and well-being. Your personal life is an important part of the healing process, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Just had the best day out with my girlfriends!! We decided to do a flying dress photoshoot, and it was a blast! 💃 I always encourage my patients to prioritize self-care and social connections, and I totally recommend trying a fun photoshoot!

Recent research shows that women who regularly make time for "girl dates" tend to live longer and have a lower risk of heart disease. Spending quality time with your besties can significantly reduce stress levels and boost overall well-being. So before you feel like spending time with women you care about is “selfish,” remember that it’s more than just fun – it actually benefits your health in the long term!

If you're feeling burnt out, make a plan to do something fun with your favorite ladies. Your heart will thank you.

MUA & Hair: Beauty by Twee
Photography: Flying Dress Photo

Want to up your game this summer?? Drink more water! Hear me out…

As the temps rise, it's prime time to get out and enjoy all your favorite summer sports and activities. Don't let DEHYDRATION put a damper on your outdoor fun!

Proper hydration is crucial for athletic performance and injury prevention, especially when sweating in the heat. When you're dehydrated, your body doesn't function at its best: you may experience fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, and more. This puts you at higher risk for things like heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and even musculoskeletal injuries.

On the flip side, staying well hydrated can enhance your endurance, improve your muscle function, and help regulate your body temperature. You'll be able to push harder and go longer without hitting the wall.

So before you hit the trails, courts, or water this summer, prioritize hydration!! Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. And don't forget electrolyte-rich options like sports drinks to replace what you're sweating out.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

How often do you think about your bones??

Bone health is often overlooked, but it's crucial for overall well-being – especially as we age. Weak, brittle bones can lead to painful fractures and limit your mobility. But the good news is, there are steps you can take to keep them strong and healthy.

The key is getting enough essential nutrients for bone development and maintenance. Calcium and vitamin D are the superstars, but magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin K also play important roles.

You can find these bone-boosting nutrients in a variety of foods such as dairy, leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, and beans. Aim to incorporate them into your diet regularly.

Strength training is another vital component of bone health. Weight-bearing exercises stimulate the cells that build bone, helping to maintain density and strength. Even simple bodyweight moves can make a big difference!!

Don't wait until it's too late to prioritize your bones. Make bone health a focus now through a nutrient-rich diet and an active lifestyle. Your future self will thank you for it!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

Vitamin D is often called the "sunshine vitamin" because our bodies produce it when our skin is exposed to sunlight. Many people don't get enough vitamin D, however, especially during the winter months or if they spend a lot of time indoors.

Low vitamin D levels can leave you feeling fatigued, moody, and generally unwell. In fact, studies show vitamin D deficiency is linked to a host of health issues, from weakened immunity to increased risk of chronic diseases.

The good news is vitamin D is easy to supplement. You can get it through certain foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products. But if your levels are low, your doctor may recommend a daily vitamin D supplement to get you back on track.

Don't let a vitamin D deficiency drag you down. Make sure you're getting enough of this crucial nutrient, whether through safe sun exposure, a vitamin D-rich diet, or a supplement if needed. Your mind and body will thank you!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

I'm so honored to have been featured in the latest issue of ! As the founder of DFW Sports Medicine, it's been a privilege to share my story of starting my own practice and leading with purpose.

This magazine highlights incredible female founders and leaders, and I'm humbled to be included among them. The feature covers my journey of building DFW Sports Medicine from the ground up, the challenges I faced, and how I strive to make a difference in my community through sports medicine.

If you haven't checked out the latest issue of ELLA Inspires, I highly recommend it! There are so many inspiring stories that are sure to motivate you. You can find the digital version online at https://issuu.com/ellainspires/docs/issue_32_8.5x11

Have you heard about the recent cyberattack on healthcare tech company Change Healthcare??

This breach has resulted in major disruptions for healthcare workers, leaving many doctors and medical practices struggling to keep their doors open. As a physician, I’m deeply concerned about the fallout.

Doctors have seen their cash flow plummet by over 80% for weeks, forcing them to stop taking their OWN salaries just to make payroll. Others had no choice but to rack up millions in unpaid chemotherapy bills, fearing their cancer patients would be left without critical treatment.

Many providers have had to dip into their personal savings, take out loans, or even beg patients for advances just to stay afloat.

This crisis exposes major vulnerabilities in our healthcare system. Doctors should be focused on caring for patients, NOT worrying about making payroll or going bankrupt due to no fault of their own. The fallout could last for months, leaving many small and rural practices on the brink.

We need to demand accountability and real solutions to protect providers and ensure patients can access the care they need.

Healthcare workers have sacrificed so much – they deserve better support during emergencies like this. Let’s do better!!

Find the article here: https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2024/04/30/change-healthcare-cyberattack-doctors-tap-personal-savings-for-costs.html

Considering surgery for SI joint pain?? You may be able to avoid it. Here’s how:

SI JOINT FUSION

Unlike the traditional surgical approach, this minimally invasive procedure offers a quicker recovery time and less postoperative discomfort. Using advanced imaging guidance, I'm able to fuse the SI joint precisely, providing long-lasting stability and pain relief.

Many of my active patients have found new freedom of movement and a return to the activities they love after undergoing this procedure.

The traditional surgery for SI joint issues can be quite invasive, with a lengthy recovery period that keeps patients sidelined for weeks or even months. I find that my patients are often hesitant to undergo major surgery, especially when there are less invasive options available.

If you or someone you know is struggling with persistent SI joint issues, I encourage you to explore this innovative treatment option. Minimally invasive SI joint fusion could be the solution you've been searching for, without the drawbacks of traditional surgery.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro athletes. (469) 430-9380

I’m feeling particularly grateful this Mother’s Day. Here’s why:

Last year, my mother was hospitalized with pneumonia that developed into complications, including atrial fibrillation. The care she received while at Baylor Scott & White - Murphy was nothing short of a nightmare.

The ward was staffed only with mid-level providers, and the physician managing her care was doing so via telemedicine, not in person. This physician failed to recognize that my mother's hemoglobin levels were dropping dangerously low. When the hospital ran out of blood, I pleaded for them to provide fresh plasma to stabilize her, but my request was denied due to "protocol."

Those four agonizing hours, not knowing whether my mother would survive, were the most terrifying of my life, and only God was my strength at that time to keep my mother safe. I'm eternally grateful that she pulled through, but the experience left an indelible mark on me.

Today, I am overjoyed to celebrate another year with my mother by my side. She is our family's rock; looking back, we wouldn’t have survived without her. Her strength, resilience, and guidance continue to inspire me and my daughter every single day.

To all the mothers out there, you are the true heroes. We owe you more than we could ever repay!!

Happy Mothers Day!

Being this sweet girl's mom is my proudest accomplishment!

I have to admit that before becoming a mom, I wasn't sure how I would be able to balance having a kid and managing my career. The thought of it all was honestly quite daunting.

But since welcoming my little girl into the world, I feel like I've tapped into a whole new side of myself with capabilities I never realized I had. The juggling act isn't easy, but the love and joy she brings make it all worth it.

You'll never feel 100% "ready" to have kids – there's always going to be uncertainty. But I'm so grateful for this blessing. Seeing the world through my daughter's eyes has given me a renewed sense of purpose, both as a physician and as a parent.

To all the other moms out there, you are superheroes. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. And to those considering parenthood, just know that you have more strength and resilience than you know. The journey may not be easy, but it is so incredibly rewarding.

Is discomfort in your lower back, legs, or buttocks keeping you from living an active and pain-free life? It could be due to a condition known as lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

LSS typically occurs due to the narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back region. This narrowing can be caused by a variety of factors, including the thickening of ligaments, the formation of bone spurs, or the bulging or herniation of spinal discs, all of which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

A common condition typically found in those over age 50, LSS contributes to pain and mobility issues and may impact the ability to perform simple tasks. When standing or walking, people with LSS experience pain, numbness, heaviness, and tingling in the lower back, legs, or buttocks.

Sometimes we don’t want to push ourselves to the limit – we just want to go about our daily routines uninhibited by pain. Can you relate? If so, know that you are NOT alone and there are dedicated physicians out there who want to make you BETTER!

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I am happy to share that I now offer the mild® Procedure at my clinic, which addresses a major root cause of stenosis by restoring space in the spinal canal to help improve back and leg pain. Best part is that this is minimally invasive!

Get in touch with my office to see if you may be a candidate for the mild® Procedure by visiting dfwsportsmed.com

Exciting announcement below!!

Going into 2024, I knew there were big things in store for DFW Sports Medicine. Now it’s time to let you in on the excitement!

I am pleased to announce that we now offer a minimally invasive option to address lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) for patients called the mild® Procedure.

This short, outpatient procedure eliminates a major root cause of lumbar spinal stenosis through an incision smaller than the size of a baby aspirin, and it has been shown to significantly improve LSS pain and mobility.

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Get in touch with my office to see if you may be a candidate for the mild® Procedure by visiting dfwsportsmed.com

As a physician who advocates for patient-centered care, I'm deeply frustrated by the way insurance companies are dictating where I can perform procedures for my patients.

Recently, I had to start shifting all my tenotomy cases to an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) solely because the insurance company denied the office as an approved place of service.

This is completely unacceptable. We should be making treatment decisions based on what's best for the patient, not what's most convenient or profitable for the insurance providers. When did they become the ones in charge of determining the appropriate setting for a medical procedure?

The reality is, these insurance mandates often lead to increased costs, longer wait times, and unnecessary inconvenience for patients. And let's not forget about the toll it takes on us, the healthcare providers, as we're forced to navigate this complex and ever-changing landscape.

Enough is enough. It's time we stand up and challenge these absurd restrictions. My patients deserve better, and I owe it to them to fight for their right to receive care in the most appropriate setting, as determined by their medical team.

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro-athletes. dfwsportsmed.com

🚨Insurance companies should not compromise when it comes to patient safety and treatment decisions. 🚨

I recently faced a situation where my patient’s insurance denied a necessary SI fusion procedure because I refused to use a titanium implant, which involves a much more serious operation and poses higher risk to the patient.

Physicians should have the autonomy to prioritize patient well-being over insurance preferences. The current system allows insurance to dictate how we perform a procedure, but the liability and risk are still in the physicians' hands!

To move forward with the procedure I knew was best for my patient, my only option was to appeal to the insurance company and make a case for why I don’t use titanium implants, which meant MORE delays before I could perform the procedure and deliver the pain relief my patient NEEDED.

Let's advocate for patient-centered care and challenge insurance restrictions that hinder optimal treatment outcomes!

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Ready to take your game to the next level? Schedule an appointment with a Sports Medicine Physician who is trusted by Olympians and pro-athletes. (469) 430-9380