Columbia Pediatric Orthopedics

12/18/2025

From the OR to the rink, Dr. Charles Popkin [TAG] is making a real impact on young athletes. 🏒

As a pediatric and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Popkin treats complex knee injuries and advocates for safer sports culture, especially in ice hockey, where he’s pushing for change around fighting at the youth and amateur levels.

He serves as team physician for USA Hockey [TAG] and multiple local colleges, writes a monthly Ask Dr. Hockey column, and conducts ongoing research on injury prevention and overuse injuries in young athletes.

His mission is to help athletes thrive safely and confidently on and off the ice.

11/28/2025

Today is Osteonecrosis Awareness Day.

Osteonecrosis (also known as avascular necrosis) occurs when reduced blood flow to a bone causes tissue to weaken and break down, most often in the hip, knee, or shoulder.

Early diagnosis is essential. When caught early, treatment can protect the joint and prevent long-term damage.

If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain or stiffness, make an appointment with one of our specialists at columbiaortho.org or call 305-212-4565.

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from Columbia Orthopedics! 💙

We’re especially grateful for our patients, residents, faculty, and staff.

Your trust inspires us every day to keep advancing orthopedic care through compassion, education, and innovation.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and joyful Thanksgiving.

Our offices will be closed Thursday, November 27, and Friday, November 28, and will reopen on Monday, December 1.

11/26/2025

This Thanksgiving, we honor the power of gratitude through the story of Edyth Wagner-Roop.

Nearly 100 years after receiving compassionate care at New York Orthopaedics Hospital (now Columbia Orthopedics), her generous gift ensures future patients benefit from the same kindness and innovation. Her legacy reminds us that giving thanks can inspire lasting impact, healing, and hope for generations to come. As we celebrate this season of gratitude, join us in continuing her commitment to compassionate care and research.

Read more about Edyth's story on our website:
https://www.columbiaortho.org/news/debt-gratitude-paid-forward

11/20/2025

While rule changes and technique improvements have decreased concussion incidence, it still remains prevalent throughout sports and the general population. Staying aware of the signs and recovery steps is still essential, especially during fall sports season. 🏈

Common football injuries today include ACL and meniscus tears, shoulder injuries, and ankle sprains.

Dr. Goldwaser’s advice:

• For young athletes: “Learn proper form and tackling techniques early. Playing smart helps prevent injuries long-term.”

• For adults: “Stay flexible! Regular stretching or yoga can help prevent common strains and sprains.”

Safe habits, smart recovery, and consistent flexibility training go a long way toward keeping athletes of all ages in the game.

11/14/2025

Diabetes doesn’t just affect blood sugar; it can also impact your bones, joints, and recovery after injury. 🦴

Over time, high blood sugar can weaken bones and reduce circulation, increasing the risk of fractures, stiffness, and slow-healing wounds.

With the right care and prevention, you can protect your mobility and stay active!

If you’re managing diabetes and notice pain, swelling, or slow-healing injuries, make an appointment with one of our foot and ankle specialists at columbiaortho.org or call 305-212-4565.

11/12/2025

Meet Dr. Kyle Obana 👋

For Dr. Obana, choosing Columbia Orthopedics was all about the people. He describes the program as a place where mentorship, support, and camaraderie create a true family, one deeply committed to each resident’s growth and success.

As an undergraduate, he spent his summers interning in the department, developing lasting mentorships with faculty who believed in him early on.

Now, as a resident, Dr. Obana is proud to train under world-class leaders in the field at an institution where orthopedic surgery was pioneered and to be part of a community that continues to shape the future of orthopedic medicine.

📚 Medical School: University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine
🎓 Undergraduate: Amherst College
🦴 Favorite bone: Humerus
🍴 Favorite night float snack: Protein bars or energy drinks

11/12/2025

Research means new ways of fighting ALS. The discovery that rejuvenated neurons in animals can guard against ALS is opening doors to new treatment approaches. Columbia researchers are now working to translate the finding into an effective therapy for patients.

Research Means .

Learn more: https://columbiamed.link/4mlCRpP

11/12/2025

11/05/2025

Did you know that half of all women over 50 (and 1 in 5 men) will develop osteoporosis? Many don’t realize they’re at risk until after a fracture.

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that causes bones to become fragile and more likely to break. It’s often called the silent disease because most people don’t know they have it until they suffer a fracture.

500 million people are affected by worldwide. Regular check-ups, early diagnosis, and preventative care are key to maintaining strong bones as we age. 🦴

If you have questions about your bone health, visit columbiaortho.org or call 305-212-4565 to make an appointment with one of our specialists.

11/03/2025

Sleep is one of the most underrated parts of concussion recovery. 🧠

Your brain works hard, even at rest, and quality sleep gives it the time it needs to repair and reset.

Here are a few habits Dr. Bottiglieri shares with athletes recovering from concussion:
• Power down screens at least an hour before bed
• Avoid large meals right before sleep
• Get sunlight and light movement early in the day to regulate your rhythm

Healing your brain starts with giving it the rest it deserves.