expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Mark Andrew Dodson, MD

Orthopedist

Dr. Mark Dodson is an orthopaedic surgeon practicing in Alexandria, LA. Dr. Dodson specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries, diseases and disorders of the bodys musculoskeletal system. As an orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Dodson tends to bones, ligaments, muscles, joints, nerves and tendons. Orthopaedic surgeons can specialize in certain areas like the hand, spine, hip, foot and ankle, shoulder and elbow or the knee.
34 years Experience
Dr. Mark Andrew Dodson, MD
  • Alexandria, LA
  • Univ of Tn, Memphis, Coll of Med, Memphis Tn
  • Accepting new patients

Is a partially torn UCL of thumb serious?

As long as the joint is stable, it is not serious. If the joint is unstable, it needs surgical correction.

Why does a broken hand need surgery?

It all depends on the bone you broke and the degree of displacement. It is very common to perform surgery on fractures in the hand.

What home remedies can help with scoliosis?

None.
Scoliosis is a genetic problem.

Should my child's knee be examined?

Yes, he will likely need an examination and x-rays

Right shoulder pain at night--what's causing it?

Not likely. You may have impingement or rotator cuff tendonitis

Should I wear an ankle brace?

Braces are really more treatment than they are effective in preventing injuries. If you have a normal ankle a brace will likely not give you much benefit. If you play sports you’re READ MORE
Braces are really more treatment than they are effective in preventing injuries. If you have a normal ankle a brace will likely not give you much benefit. If you play sports you’re taking a risk of injury no matter what you do.

How long does an arm fracture take to heal?

The fracture will heal in 4-6 weeks and he should be back to normal in 3 months.

Are "growing pains" really a thing for kids?

Yes, it is related to their growth plates.

Why do I have fluid accumulation around my knees?

It is likely due to osteoarthritis of your knees.

Can surgery help in treating rheumatoid arthritis?

Yes, but it depends on the body part that is involved.

What would cause middle of the night severe knee pain?

Osteoarthritis of the joint is one possibility

I have severe back pain at the bottom of my spine. Do you think a surgery might be required?

You will need an X-ray and maybe an MRI to answer that question.

My father had knee surgery. When can he start walking?

I will assume he had a knee replacement. He can walk as soon as he feels he is able.

My son dislocated his shoulder. Is anesthesia needed for the repair?

A very light anesthesia. A fracture is also a possibility and needs to be evaluated.

My mother has tremendous back pain when she lies down. Is surgery a solution to her problem?

I would try other options first, but she an accurate diagnosis as to the cause of the pain. Physical therapy, brace wear, and injections are options if she doesn’t have a fracture READ MORE
I would try other options first, but she an accurate diagnosis as to the cause of the pain. Physical therapy, brace wear, and injections are options if she doesn’t have a fracture or tumor.

How long will my back take to recover after surgery?

There are a lot of variables. One is are you having a fusion? 6-12 months.

How can I correct the hunch in my back?

Not likely. You probably have Scheuermann’s Kyphosis. It is a fixed spinal problem. You need to see a doctor who specializes in spine and have an X-ray.

How long does a knee fracture take to heal in kids?

2-6 weeks. Kids heal much faster than adults.