Cycling Vs. Walking: Which is the Better Workout for You?

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Article featured on Healthline

Aerobic exercise is an important way to maintain your health and vitality. If you’re new to exercising or have an injury or health condition that’s forcing you to change your exercise routine, you may wonder what type of aerobic exercise to choose.

Cycling and walking are two of the most popular types of aerobic activity. Both can be adapted for beginners or people with injuries or other health conditions.

They both provide a lower impact activity than other aerobic activities, such as running or jumping rope. Also, you can do them both outdoors or indoors, making them accessible no matter what the weather is like.

However, they tend to differ in terms of cost. Cycling obviously requires a bike, while all you need to start walking is a pair of shoes (or not) and the will to move.

Still, you may wonder which is the better workout and which is better for your health.

Which burns more calories?

How many calories you burn with cycling and walking depends on your workout intensity. The following table shows approximately how many calories a 150-pound (68-kg) person would burn in a 30-minute session.

IntensityBiking (calories and speed)Walking (calories and speed)
Light240 calories — 10–11.9 miles per hour (16–19.15 km/hr)154 calories — 3.5 miles per hour (5.6 km/hr)
Moderate285 calories — 12–13.9 miles per hour (19.3–22.4 km/hr)179 calories — 4.0 miles per hour (6.4 km/hr)
High357 calories — 14–15.9 miles per hour (22.5–25.6 km/hr)250 calories — 4.5 miles per hour (7.2 km/hr)

Thus, cycling tends to burn more calories for the same category of intensity during the same time period. You can think of the intensity as the rate of perceived exertion.

If you want to burn calories and you’re short on time, cycling may be the better option.

Which works muscles better?

Cycling and walking involve using many of the same muscles to produce force to move. The gluteal muscles of the hip and hamstrings are involved in power production in both walking and cycling.

These muscles increase their activation when you increase your speed during cycling, especially when you stand up to pedal. In addition, gluteal activation increases when you walk uphill or up stairs.

The quadriceps (knee extensors) are involved to a larger extent in cycling compared with walking. They are larger producers of force during the power or push-down phase of cycling when you’re sitting down.

Finally, the calf muscles (soleus and gastrocnemius) play an important role in both cycling and walking. They are the muscles that propel you in the push phase of cycling and the push-off phase of walking (mid-stance to pre-swing phases).

Thus, both activities work the same muscles, but cycling tends to require the muscles to exert more force.

Cycling and walking use many of the same muscles to produce force and movement. However, cycling tends to work your muscles harder.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Most Common Spring Injuries

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Article featured on CareNow Urgent Care

As the weather warms up and the flowers begin to bloom, many people are eager to spend more time outdoors and engage in activities that they may have put on hold during the winter months.

While spring is a time to enjoy the outdoors and soak up some vitamin D, it also comes with its fair share of risks, including the potential for injuries. From gardening mishaps to sports-related accidents, there are a variety of injuries that tend to be more common during the spring season.

We’re exploring some of the most common spring injuries, along with tips for prevention and treatment. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the spring weather, it’s important to be aware of these common injuries so that you can take steps to stay safe and healthy.

What are the most common spring injuries?

There are certain injuries that typically occur more this time of year than any other season. Educating yourself on these injuries is the first step in learning how to prevent them. Here’s a look at the injuries most common during springtime:

Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains are common injuries that affect the soft tissues in the body, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. A sprain occurs when a ligament, the tissue that connects bone to bone, is stretched or torn.

This can happen due to a sudden twist or turn of the joint, resulting in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area.

On the other hand, a strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is inflamed, usually as a result of overuse or repetitive motion. Symptoms of a strain include pain, swelling, muscle spasm, and weakness.

Both sprains and strains can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, along with physical therapy and pain management techniques. However, severe cases may require surgery to repair the damaged tissue.

Fractures

Fractures, or broken bones, can happen any time of year, but they are particularly common during the spring season. With the arrival of warmer weather, many people become more active, and this can increase the risk of falls, collisions, and other accidents that can result in fractures.

Common spring activities such as biking, skateboarding, and playing sports can also increase the risk of fractures. It’s important to take steps to prevent fractures, such as wearing proper protective gear and taking precautions to avoid falls.

Sunburn and heat-related illness

With warmer temperatures and longer days, many people spend more time outdoors during the spring season. However, spending too much time in the sun can increase the risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses.

Sunburn can be painful and uncomfortable, and it also increases the risk of skin cancer. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be serious and even life-threatening.

It’s important to take steps to protect yourself from the sun and heat, such as wearing protective clothing, sunscreen, staying hydrated, and taking breaks in the shade or indoors. By being proactive, you can enjoy the outdoors safely during the spring season.

Bites and stings

Bites and stings from insects can be a common occurrence during the spring season, especially as people spend more time outdoors. While many insect bites and stings are harmless and cause only mild irritation, others can be more serious and lead to an allergic reaction or infection.

When possible, take steps to avoid insect bites and stings, such as wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent. If a bite or sting does occur, it’s important to monitor the area for signs of infection or allergic reaction and seek medical attention if necessary.

Overuse injuries

Spring is a popular time for people to ramp up their exercise routines after a long winter, but overdoing it can lead to overuse injuries like tendonitis, shin splints, and stress fractures. It’s important to gradually increase your activity level and listen to your body to avoid these types of injuries.

How to prevent common spring injuries

Preventing injuries is always better than treating them after the fact. When it comes to spring injuries, there are several things you can do to reduce the risk of getting hurt.

First, it’s important to stay active throughout the year, rather than suddenly jumping into strenuous activities once the weather warms up. This helps your body adjust to the increased activity level and reduces the risk of injury. Warming up before physical activity, wearing protective gear, and staying hydrated can all help prevent injuries.

Another way to prevent spring injuries is to be aware of potential hazards and take steps to avoid them. For example, wearing the right footwear and being aware when you walk on uneven surfaces can help prevent ankle sprains and other foot injuries.

Taking precautions to avoid insect bites, such as using bug spray and wearing long sleeves and pants in wooded areas, can also help reduce the risk of allergic reactions and other insect-related injuries.

Finally, you should always seek medical attention if you experience an injury rather than trying to tough it out or self-diagnose it. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications and a longer recovery time. By taking these preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of injury and enjoy the gorgeous spring weather.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

How to Train for a Marathon

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Article featured on Summit Ortho

It’s one of those big, audacious goals that people sometimes dream of achieving: running a marathon. It’s easy to envision crossing the finish line and raising your arms in victory, having accomplished something that few people dare to try. But how do you learn how to train for a marathon?

“Training for a marathon requires consistency, dedication, and patience. You want to find ways to consistently train, which means planning your runs ahead of time and making sure you prioritize them in your daily schedule. It helps to find other runners who are training for a similar race, so you have people to keep you accountable and help you stay motivated,” Dr. Voight said. “Most importantly, you want to be patient with your training, so you don’t increase too quickly and end up with an injury.”

How long does it take to train for a marathon?

A marathon is a long race — 26.2 miles, to be exact. How do you get started, and how long does it take? How do you know how long to train for a marathon? The general answer is that it takes about 16 to 20 weeks to train for a marathon. This is true whether you’re new to running or are a regular runner already.

Your training plan should include three to five running sessions a week, with low-impact exercise, strength training, and rest on the other days. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust your training schedule if you get sick, have scheduling conflicts, or are battling an injury, so it’s good for your schedule to be flexible.

It’s important to keep your expectations realistic as you train. If you are new to running altogether, your goal should be to complete the race, not to finish in a certain time. You may not be able to run for the whole 26.2 miles, and that’s okay.

Marathon training tips

  1. Consult your doctor — Before embarking on marathon training, check with your doctor to make sure you’re managing any chronic conditions you have (diabetes or asthma, for example) while you’re training.
  2. Find a marathon training plan — There are lots of great options online, for everyone from couch potatoes to seasoned runners with a couple of half-marathons under their belts. Search “marathon training plan” to find a good starting point, and then customize it as needed for your life.
  3. Start slowly — The number-one mistake prospective marathon runners make is to go too fast and too far, too soon. That’s a recipe for injuries, which could derail your training overall. Although starting is exciting, it’s important to remember the old adage: slow and steady wins the race.
  4. Add strength — We think about marathon running as an endurance sport, which it certainly is. But don’t overlook the importance of strength training in helping you prevent injury and build muscle.
  5. Listen to your body — The most important marathon training tip isn’t really about running. It’s to listen to your body. If you’re feeling fatigued, take a day off. If something isn’t right, pay attention to your instincts and give your body what it needs.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Top 10 Winter Injuries

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

What Are the Benefits of Walking?

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Common Overuse Injuries in Fall Sports

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Article featured on TheCenter

Fall sports are here and with that comes overuse injuries and burnout especially in adolescent athletes. An overuse injury develops slowly over time due to repetitive stress on tendons, muscles, bones, or joints. It is important to be aware and pay attention to any minor aches and pains to prevent a more serious injury down the road. Here are a few of the most common overuse injuries during the fall season.

SHIN SPLINTS

Shin splints are an inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your shinbone (tibia). Typically, this develops when the muscle and bone tissue become overworked by repetitive or sudden change in activity, such as increasing the intensity or amount that you exercise. Runners are at the highest risk for developing shin splints.

It might be time to take a break and rest if you start to experience these symptoms:

  • Sharp, dull, or throbbing pain
  • Pain during and after exercise
  • Sore to touch and mild swelling

Sometimes, other problems exist that can have an impact on healing. If the pain persists, contact one of our orthopedic surgeons for an examination.

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of foot pain, radiating from the bottom of the heel throughout the foot. The plantar fascia is the strong band of tissue in the arch of your foot that runs from your heel to toe, and absorbs strains and stress placed on the foot each time it is in use. Plantar fasciitis occurs when that supporting tissue becomes irritated and inflamed.

Common causes and risk factors include:

Tight calf muscles
Repetitive activity (sports/running)
New or increased activity
Obesity
Diagnosis and treatment are important with this painful condition and healing can begin quickly once diagnosed. Your doctor will most likely recommend rest and possibly frequent icing on the area. Anti-inflammatories may also help symptoms subside combined with light stretching of your feet and calves. If pain continues to linger, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend a partial release procedure.

ACHILLES TENDINITIS

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Although it can withstand a lot of stress, it is also prone to tendinitis, which is when the tendon becomes inflamed causing swelling, pain, or irritation. This condition is caused by repetitive stress to the tendon, such as pushing our bodies too far or too soon from walking, running, jumping, etc.

Common symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis include:

  • Pain on the back of the heel that worsens with activity
  • Pain or stiffness along the tendon in the morning
  • Pain the day after exercising
  • Swelling

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

3 Common Golf Injuries: How to Avoid the “Rough”

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Article from Brigham Health Hub, written by Elizabeth G. Matzkin, MD

Golf is a lifetime sport – people of all ages and activity levels can participate. It is a great way to get outside and stay active, especially if you choose to walk the course. On average, a golfer playing 18 holes on foot will walk anywhere from three to six miles. Injuries are common at all levels of play, from first-time golfers to professionals. Before you take your first swing of the season, be sure to check out the tips below on signs, symptoms, and prevention of common golf injuries.

1. Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

What is it?

The rotator cuff is a group of important muscles and tendons in your shoulder. Rotator cuff tendinitis is caused by inflammation of these tendons, leading to pain and decreased function. Rotator cuff tendinitis is commonly associated with overuse. Signs and symptoms include pain with overhead movements or repetitive motions of the shoulder.

How can I prevent this?

Rotator cuff tendinitis can be caused by overuse or improper technique during your swing, putting too much stress on the shoulder. Consult a golf instructor for suggestions on improving swing technique. You should always stretch out your shoulders and warm up with a few exercises before you start swinging for the day.

How is it treated?

If your doctor suspects you have rotator cuff tendinitis, they may prescribe rest, ice, and an anti-inflammatory medication. Your doctor also may recommend physical therapy to help maximize shoulder strength and function. If you have a flare-up of significant pain that limits motion, sometimes your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to decrease acute inflammation.

2. Golfer’s Elbow

What is it?

Medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s elbow, is caused by inflammation of the tendons and muscles on the inside of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow is a common overuse injury, caused by repetitive motions. Signs and symptoms of golfer’s elbow include persistent pain on the inside of the elbow and pain during movements of the wrist, such as turning a doorknob or shaking hands.

How can I prevent this?

Golfer’s elbow can be caused by improper swing technique that puts additional stress on the tendons of the inside of the elbow. Ask a golf instructor to recommend techniques that minimize stress on the elbow during a swing. In addition, make sure you are using golf clubs that are the right fit for your size and strength.

How is it treated?

If your doctor suspects you have golfer’s elbow, they will likely prescribe rest, ice, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to strengthen your elbow muscles and tendons. Your doctor also may prescribe a wrist brace or forearm band to help reduce pain with movements of the wrist.

3. Knee Pain

What is it?

A golf swing requires rotation of the knee as you turn your hips and shoulders to follow through. This movement can cause or aggravate a torn meniscus, a cartilage structure in the knee that helps absorb the impact of walking and rotation during a swing. For older golfers, this movement also can exacerbate pre-existing arthritis.

How do I prevent it?

Weakness in the thigh muscles, like the hip flexors, quadriceps, and hamstrings, puts additional pressure on the knee joint when walking and especially during a golf swing. Specific exercises that target these muscle groups will maximize your strength and help to take pressure off of the knee joint, decreasing pain during golf or other daily activities. Proper swing technique is also important to minimize the rotational forces on the knee.

How is it treated?

If your doctor suspects you have arthritis or a tear in the meniscus, they may recommend ice, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to increase the strength of your thigh muscles. By maximizing strength and decreasing swelling, you can get back to a pain-free golf swing. However, if you have persistent pain and severe limitations in your activities, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection or further intervention.

Golf is a great way to exercise and stay active for many people. Unfortunately, injuries can occur at any age or level of play. Be on the lookout for these common injuries and be sure to stretch and warm up your arm and leg muscles before you hit the course. If you have persistent pain from golfing, be sure to consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.
Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.
If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Cycling During COVID-19: How To Ride Safely

Cycling During COVID-19: How To Ride Safely

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From Aventon

While the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread across the world, it has also caused the cycling world to make changes to their daily lives. Not only has the pandemic led to canceled bike races across the country, but it has also led many riders to ask what cycling during coronavirus looks like.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the basics about COVID-19 to give you a better understanding of the virus so that you can take the necessary safety measures to cycleduring this time safely.

THE BASICS

Let’s start off by talking about the basics of the coronavirus.

COVID-19 is a new strain of the coronavirus for which there is no known treatment or vaccine at the moment. While it’s very likely that some of us may have experienced some kind of coronavirus at some point in our lives, recent public health studies suggest that this strain is more contagious than previous ones.

Like most viruses, COVID is spread through droplet transmission and generally presents itself as the common cold with minor respiratory ailments. However, complications may arise in varying severity; in some cases, even leading to death.

You can also contract the virus by touching an object or surface that where droplets from a cough or sneeze has landed. Once the droplets have contaminated your hands, you may inadvertently touch your nose or mouth, introducing the virus into your respiratory system.

Recent studies suggest that the virus itself may be able to survive for as long as three days on plastic, metal, or glass surfaces.

 

PRECAUTIONARY SAFETY MEASURES TO TAKE DURING THE PANDEMIC

There are a few simple steps that everyone can take to make sure they will not get the virus, or spread it. While this list is not complete with everything to help fight back against the spread of the coronavirus, it is a valuable starting point.

SOCIAL DISTANCING

As many of you have heard,social distancing is a great way to prevent further transmission of the coronavirus. This means not gathering in large groups, and always observing a distance of six feet between you and the person next to you.

Additionally, as a rule of thumb, unless you know where your companions have been and who they have been in contact over with the past 14 days, it is in the interest of your health to not risk visiting with other people at the moment. Even one gathering can mean the difference between breaking the chain of transmission.

WEAR A MASK

Droplet transmission means that an infected person can expel the virus through coughing, sneezing, or talking. If you happen to be in close proximity to them (that is, within approximately six feet), there is a chance you might inhale the virus and introduce it into your own body.

If you have to be around others in public for any reason, best practice suggests wearing a mask to protect yourself and others. Face coverings of any kind can reduce droplet transmission when we talk, cough, or sneeze.

WASH YOUR HANDS THOROUGHLY

Washing your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water after touching frequently-used items is another excellent way to prevent transmission. Time your hand washing routine so you spend at least 20 seconds covering the entire surface area of your hands with soap before rinsing.

Rubbing with hand sanitizer also works, but does not eliminate the virus as efficiently as washing with soap and water.

ADDITIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES

    • Do not touch your face.
    • Practice good hand hygiene at all times.
    • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, your shoulder, or elbow.
    • If possible, work from home to prevent unnecessary interaction with other people.
    • Keep away from being around many people as much as possible.
    • Stay home if you feel you are sick or beginning to feel sick.
    • Avoid unnecessary travel.
    • Get at least 8 to 9 hours of sleep.
    • Take your vitamins.
    • Protect your immune system.
    • Exercise and eat healthy.

HOW TO SAFELY RIDE YOUR BIKE DURING THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK

So, what does all of the above have to do with riding a bike?

 

Cycling is a great way to remain healthy, both physically and emotionally, while also living in a socially-distanced environment. But how can you ensure your safety, as well as the safety of others while you are cycing?

 

Well, the good news is that cycling not only carries minimal risk of transmission of COVID-19, it’s also extremely unlikely to contract COVID-19 while cycling, especially while riding on your own. However, just to be safe, let’s take a look at a few recommendations for the next time you feel like going for a ride.

 

First and foremost, if you think you have been exposed, self-quarantine. As unfortunate as this will sound, this is of utmost importance.

 

Unless you get tested, you cannot be certain that you are not carrying the virus, even if you are not exhibiting symptoms. Stay home to avoid the risk of infecting others. Restrictions include not riding outdoors until you have been self-quarantined for at least 14 days.

 

If you plan on cycling with a group of others, keep a minimum of six feet of space when riding with the group. Furthermore, it’s recommended not to ride with people who reside outside of your household or if you have not discussed how each one of you has been quarantining.

 

Additionally, when you find yourself need to pass someone on the road or on the bike lanes, try to give as wide a berth as possible to make sure both parties are adhering to social distancing best practices.

SHOULD YOU WEAR A MASK WHEN RIDING?

CDC guidelines have recently been updated to urge people to wear fabric face coverings in any public setting where social distancing measures cannot strictly be ensured (i.e., grocery stores, bike shops). So, what does this mean for athletes and people who exercise outdoors?

 

Read more: eBike Laws and How They Impact Riders

 

Well, it is not a situation to take lightly. While you may not need to wear a mask while you are cycling by yourself, you should bring one along in the event of an emergency or if you need to stop at a store to grab a drink. Face coverings do two great things:

  1. They prevent spread from the ill and protect against inhalation in healthy individuals.
  2. They are highly effective when used correctly.

 

The objective of the mask is not only to protect yourself from the virus, but also to protect others from it, as well. The asymptomatic spread of the virus remains a critical concern, which means someone might have the ability to spread the virus to other people without knowing they even contracted it.

You can never be sure if the person next to you is infected, or if you yourself are. Wearing a mask by default could greatly help in decreasing the transmission of this highly contagious virus.

 

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Recreational areas reopen in Albuquerque

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Recreational areas reopen in Albuquerque

From Visit Albuquerque 

As outdoor lands and some recreational areas reopen in Albuquerque and New Mexico, state officials are reminding residents and visitors to be respectful of these places and continue to take precautions to stop the spread of COVID-19.

OUTDOOR GUIDELINES & RESTRICTIONS

The city of Albuquerque sits a mile above sea level (5,000-6,000-foot elevation) and has a high-desert climate, which means around 310 sunny days and cool, crisp evenings. Albuquerque’s climate and landscape are perfect for outdoor adventure vacations. We have four seasons, so plan for potential snow in the winter and sunny days in the 90s during the summer.

Albuquerque and the surrounding mountainous terrain are a paradise for hikers and bikers. Varying levels of trails crisscross the Sandia and Manzano Mountains adjacent to Albuquerque, for some of the best hiking and mountain biking in New Mexico. Runners—including several Olympic distance runners—often take advantage of the benefits of altitude training in Albuquerque.

Not into heights? Venture out on the interconnected trail system throughout the city. The Paseo del Bosque Trail is an easily accessible 16-mile multi-use route enjoyed by walkers, runners, cyclists, inline skaters and even horseback riders. Start planning your fitness vacation today.

HIKING OPTIONS – FROM A CASUAL STROLL TO CLIMBING MOUNTAINS

The Sandia (“watermelon” in Spanish) Mountains, the eastern landmark of the city, beckon outdoor enthusiasts. In the evening, the mountains turn a pinkish hue as the sun sets, creating a spectacular backdrop for the city. There’s a reason the International Science Times named Albuquerque one of the “Top 10 Skinny Cities” in America. The high-desert landscape offers an array of hiking options, with challenging trails to the top of Sandia Peak, rolling paths through the foothills and even historical trails at Petroglyph National Monument The high-desert landscape offers an array of hiking options, with challenging trails to the top of Sandia Peak, rolling paths through the foothills and even historical trails at . Those options are right in the city, but many more routes will take you away from the city for a day trip in any direction.

More about hiking »

BIKING AT A MILE HIGH

Whether you bring your bike with you or rent one in town, there is an array of options for cycling in and around Albuquerque. The Sandias are perfect for beginner to advanced mountain biking. Road cyclists head out from the city in every direction—for flat training rides or challenging mountain inclines. If you are a leisurely biker, check out the local rental companies that offer guided tours of areas like Old Town and the Paseo del Bosque Trail, which was named one of the 20 best bike paths in the West by Sunset Magazine.

More about biking »

SANDIA PEAK AERIAL TRAMWAY

The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway’s 2.7-mile ascent to the 10,378-foot peak of the Sandia Mountains is a thrilling way to see Albuquerque and the surrounding landscape. From the top, take in a panorama of more than 11,000 square miles. The tram offers excellent access to a variety of hikes and wildlife experiences, and the peak is the perfect location to catch a gorgeous New Mexico sunset. Intrepid hikers may be interested in the La Luz Trail, which takes you to the highest point of Sandia Peak. To save some time (and energy), you can catch the tram for a ride down with a one-way ticket.

More about the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway »

LET SOMEONE ELSE LEAD THE WAY

If you’re looking for a local to help you experience the magnificent landscapes around Albuquerque, you have a variety of options. From cultural jeep tours to canoe/kayak floats down the Rio Grande, and from themed bike outings to scenic photography expeditions, local companies have got you covered.

Find tour options »

EVER SEEN A SUPER VOLCANO?

For an interesting day trip, head northwest to the Valles Caldera National Preserve in the Jemez Mountains, about 1.5 hours from Albuquerque. The 89,000-acre property is situated inside a collapsed crater that offers tremendous outdoor activities. During the winter, enjoy sleigh rides, cross-country skiing and snowshoe hikes. Summertime visitors hike through the backcountry and mountain bike. Artists of all kinds seek the beauty of the preserve to feed their creativity. Guided tours are available year-round.

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HOT AIR BALLOONING CAPITAL

Clear blue skies, calm winds and mild temperatures are the norm in Albuquerque, encouraging year-round hot air ballooning. You don’t have to be as adventurous as you might think to take a flight. Local hot air balloon companies provide rides for visitors on a daily basis (weather permitting).

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GOLF AT HIGH ALTITUDE

If you haven’t played golf in the Albuquerque area, you’re missing out on one of the sport’s best-kept secrets. The area’s unique scenery combines with affordability to provide an unbeatable cost-to-quality value. Golf Digest and Golf Magazine have ranked several of Albuquerque’s public courses among the best in the country.

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.