Fall 2024 – Orthopedics & Sports Medicine News

Welcome to the Fall 2024 inaugural edition of our newsletter!

We are thrilled to introduce our new monthly newsletter for Physical Therapy, Sports Medicine, and Orthopedics at Tahoe Forest Hospital. Each edition will spotlight a dedicated provider from our exceptional team, highlight a specialized service we offer, and provide practical tips on injury prevention to keep you healthy and active.

In this first issue, you’ll meet Dr. Jeffrey Dodd, our featured orthopedic specialist, learn about our comprehensive bicycle retrofitting service, and discover essential biking safety tips to enhance your riding experience. We hope you find our newsletter informative and engaging and look forward to being a valuable resource in your journey to optimal health and wellness.

Stay tuned each month for more insights and updates from our team!

Dr. Jeffrey Dodd is a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine at Tahoe Forest Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. With a robust medical background from the University of Cincinnati, where he completed both his medical education and residency at the University of Cincinnati Hospital, Dr. Dodd brings extensive experience and expertise to his patients.

Board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Dodd is dedicated to helping patients recover from injuries and return to their active lifestyles. His commitment to patient care and passion for sports medicine make him a trusted provider in the Tahoe community.

Contact Info

Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
10051 Lake Avenue, Ste. 3, Truckee, CA 96161

(530) 587-7461 | tfhd.com/orthopedics

Proper bicycle fitting ensures comfort, efficiency, and injury prevention

1.5 hour appointment
*Ask your provider about using your insurance plan for payment*

Our specialized bicycle retrofitting service is designed to help you achieve an optimal riding position tailored to your unique needs.

This service is offered at each of our 3 therapy clinics; Truckee, Tahoe City, and Incline Village.

Each bike retrofit session is based on the individual rider’s needs. We will consider pre-existing orthopedic conditions and ride style when performing a fit. The goal is to achieve an efficient pedaling position in order to reduce stress on joints; therefore, reducing or eliminating existing pain and preventing future overuse injuries. This is an excellent service for those experiencing pain at the knee, neck, hands, back, saddle and more!

The therapist will observe you pedaling your bike on a trainer in the clinic. They will take note of contact points and angles. The therapist will make adjustments as able in order to improve body positioning. Adjustments can include moving the seat height, saddle fore and aft, cleat position etc. They may also make recommendations for alternative parts to purchase at a local bike shop in order to improve positioning beyond the constraints of your bike if necessary.

For more info or to sign up, call (530) 587-1062.

Whether you’re hitting the pavement on your road bike or tackling rugged trails on your mountain bike, safety should always be your top priority. Biking is an excellent way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors, but it can also pose risks if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Here are some essential tips to keep you injury-free while enjoying your ride:

1. Wear the Right Gear
   Always wear a helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards. For mountain biking, consider additional protective gear like knee pads, elbow pads, and gloves to protect against falls. High-visibility clothing and lights are crucial for road bikers, especially in low-light conditions.
2. Maintain Your Bike
   Regularly check your bike’s condition. Ensure that brakes, tires, and gears are in good working order. A well-maintained bike reduces the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures.
3. Master Your Technique
   Proper biking technique is key to avoiding injuries. For road biking, maintain a relaxed but firm grip on the handlebars and keep your eyes on the road. For mountain biking, practice navigating different terrains, and learn how to distribute your weight to maintain balance on uneven trails. For a personalized assessment and to ensure your bike is perfectly fitted to your body, consider utilizing our bike retrofitting services.
4. Stay Alert and Aware
   On the road, always be aware of traffic, obey all traffic laws, and use hand signals to communicate with drivers. For mountain bikers, stay aware of your surroundings, watch for obstacles like rocks and tree roots, and know your limits when tackling difficult trails.
5. Build Strength and Flexibility
   Strengthen your core, legs, and upper body to improve your biking performance and reduce the risk of injury. Incorporating stretching into your routine will also enhance your flexibility and help prevent muscle strains. Scan the QR code below for some helpful exercises designed to reduce the risk of injury.
6. Hydrate and Fuel Properly
   Staying hydrated and fueling your body with the right nutrients is crucial for maintaining energy and preventing fatigue, which can lead to accidents and injuries.
7.  Know When to Stop
   Listen to your body. If you feel fatigued, dizzy, or in pain, it’s time to take a break or call it a day. Pushing through pain can lead to serious injuries.
   By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and exhilarating biking experience, whether you’re on the road or exploring mountain trails. Happy riding!