UCSF Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Sara Edwards Shares Expertise at Shoulder 360 Conference
Dr. Sara Edwards, a leading orthopedic surgeon in San Francisco, specializing in women’s sports medicine at UCSF, recently served as a course faculty member at the prestigious Shoulder 360 conference. This renowned event brings together top shoulder surgeons from around the country to advance the education and innovation of shoulder care.
Held annually, Shoulder 360 is dedicated to redefining surgical education through an immersive, hands-on format that blends expert lectures with practical, case-based learning. The conference is uniquely designed for shoulder surgeons seeking to deepen their skills in both routine and complex procedures.
As part of the course faculty, Dr. Edwards contributed her specialized knowledge in shoulder preservation and reconstruction. Her participation reflects her commitment to advancing surgical education and mentoring the next generation of orthopedic surgeons. At UCSF, Dr. Edwards is known not only for her technical expertise, but also for her patient-centered approach to treating shoulder injuries in athletes and active women.
Her involvement in Shoulder 360 underscores UCSF’s leadership in orthopedic innovation and Dr. Edwards’ ongoing dedication to excellence in shoulder surgery.
Dr. Carlin Senter and Lindsay Orbeta Join Panel at The StrongHer Collective Event
The StrongHer Collective is a San Francisco–based women’s wellness community founded by nurse practitioner Joy Sheppard. It is dedicated to empowering midlife women through education, connection, and evidence-based health resources. The Collective offers curated events featuring medical professionals, wellness experts, and thought leaders who provide insights on topics such as hormonal health, aging, and mental well-being. By fostering a supportive network, the StrongHer Collective aims to help women navigate life’s transitions with confidence and vitality.
Sports Dietitian Lindsay Orbeta Supports Runners at UCSF Booth During 2024 San Francisco Marathon
In July 2024, sports dietitian Lindsay Orbeta, MS, RD, represented UCSF Health at the San Francisco Marathon, providing race-day nutrition guidance to participants. Stationed at the UCSF booth, Orbeta engaged with hundreds of runners, addressing inquiries on optimal fueling strategies, hydration techniques, and recovery nutrition. Attendees also received complimentary items such as protein bars, Osmo electrolytes, and pre-run breakfast suggestions, enhancing their race-day experience.
The San Francisco Marathon, inaugurated on July 10, 1977, by the Pamakid Runners Club, has evolved into a prominent event in the running community. The inaugural race attracted fewer than 900 participants, with Athol Barton securing the men’s title in 2:24:59 and Tena Harms winning the women’s division in 3:09:08. Over the years, the marathon has expanded to include various race options, such as a full marathon, two half marathons, a 10K, a 5K, and an ultramarathon. The course offers runners scenic views of San Francisco’s landmarks, including the Embarcadero, Golden Gate Bridge, and Golden Gate Park.
UCSF Health’s participation in the marathon underscores its commitment to community engagement and the promotion of health and wellness. Through the expertise of professionals like Lindsay Orbeta, UCSF continues to support athletes by providing evidence-based nutritional guidance, contributing to the overall success and well-being of marathon participants.
UCSF hosts The Perry Initiative Medical Student Outreach Program
UCSF Hosts The Perry Initiative Medical Student Outreach Program to Empower Future Female Orthopaedic Surgeons
On December 3, 2024, UCSF Pride Hall welcomed 20 female medical students for The Perry Initiative Medical Student Outreach Program, a transformative event aimed at addressing the gender gap in orthopaedic surgery. Organized by Dr. Stephanie Wong, the program offered mentorship, hands-on skills training, and inspiring lectures led by female orthopaedic surgeons and residents.
Orthopaedic surgery remains one of the most underrepresented specialties for women. Despite women comprising nearly 50% of medical school graduates, only about 6% of practicing orthopaedic surgeons are female. The Perry Initiative, a national nonprofit dedicated to fostering interest in orthopaedics among women, seeks to change this narrative by providing early exposure and support.
Participants at UCSF engaged in hands-on sessions using saw bones to practice essential surgical techniques, including external fixation and intramedullary nailing of the femur. This immersive experience not only built technical skills but also provided valuable insight into the challenges and rewards of the specialty.
The event underscored the importance of mentorship, as female leaders in the field shared their journeys and offered guidance to the next generation. Programs like this play a crucial role in encouraging more women to pursue careers in orthopaedic surgery, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive future for the profession.
For more information about The Perry Initiative and their efforts, visit The Perry Initiative.
Dr. Sara Edwards Elevates ASES with Inclusive Initiatives
Dr. Sara Edwards, a renowned orthopedic surgeon at UCSF Women’s Sports Medicine Center in San Francisco, recently made significant strides at the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) annual meeting. As the chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at ASES, Dr. Edwards continues to champion a more inclusive and equitable future for the orthopedic community.
Mentoring the Next Generation
At this year’s ASES meeting, Dr. Edwards shared her expertise by delivering a mentorship talk as part of the ‘young scholars’ program. This initiative, designed to support underrepresented minorities (URMs) from local medical schools, provides invaluable guidance and inspiration to aspiring orthopedic surgeons. By sharing her personal experiences and insights, Dr. Edwards empowers the next generation of medical professionals.
Driving Innovation in Orthopedic Education
In addition to her mentorship role, Dr. Edwards hosted an Nth Dimensions bioskills lab. Nth Dimensions is a national organization that develops pipeline programs providing scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on experience to underrepresented groups pursuing careers in medicine. This innovative lab offered hands-on training and education to attendees, providing them with valuable practical skills. By organizing this lab, Dr. Edwards further solidifies her commitment to advancing orthopedic surgery and promoting excellence in patient care.
Pioneering a New Era of Inclusivity
One of the most significant highlights of the ASES meeting was the inaugural ‘women’s breakfast,’ organized by Dr. Edwards. This groundbreaking event brought together women orthopedic surgeons from around the world to network, share experiences, and inspire one another. The overwhelming positive response to the breakfast demonstrates the growing need for such initiatives and highlights the importance of fostering a supportive community for women in the field.
Dr. Edwards’ dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, coupled with her passion for mentorship and innovation, has made her a leader in the orthopedic community. Her contributions to the ASES annual meeting have left a lasting impact and set a new standard for future events.
Empowering Young Athletes: Injury Prevention and Nutrition Clinic for Seals Girls’ Soccer by Physical Therapist Erin Finestone and Sports Dietician Lindsay Orbeta
Physical Therapist Erin Finestone and Sports Dietitian Lindsay Orbeta recently teamed up to lead an injury prevention and nutrition clinic for the Seals Youth Girls’ Competitive Soccer Team (ages 12–14). The event took place during the team’s evening practice at City College of San Francisco and was timed perfectly as the players prepare for an exciting series of international matches in Amsterdam this July.
During the clinic, Erin conducted individual assessments using the FIFA 11+ program, a scientifically validated warm-up routine designed to reduce soccer-related injuries. She also evaluated muscle imbalances and offered personalized corrective exercises to help improve movement patterns and reduce injury risk.
Meanwhile, Lindsay provided practical nutrition guidance tailored for young athletes. Her talk focused on pre-soccer snacks that support energy and performance, as well as recovery dinner ideas to refuel and repair after training or games.
This collaborative clinic offered players valuable tools to stay healthy, strong, and well-fueled—especially as they gear up for international competition. The event also reflects a growing emphasis on whole-athlete care, blending physical therapy and sports nutrition to support long-term development and performance.
Sports Dietitian Lindsay Orbeta Presents at Origins Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Lunch and Learn
Sports Dietitian Lindsay Orbeta recently joined Origins Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in San Francisco for an on-site Lunch and Learn session. During the event, Lindsay presented on postnatal nutrition, sharing practical guidance and evidence-based strategies with the clinic’s team of physical therapists. The presentation marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership, enhancing coordinated care for shared patients. Many of these individuals also receive support from affiliated orthopedic surgeons and primary care providers, creating a collaborative and comprehensive approach to postpartum recovery and overall wellness.
Dr. Sara Edwards and Lindsay Orbeta, MS, RD present at two statewide Grand Rounds events for physicians at One Medical and Private Medical
Lindsay Orbeta, MS, RD, a women’s sports dietitian, recently presented at two statewide Grand Rounds events for physicians at One Medical and Private Medical. She was joined by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Sara Edwards. Together, they delivered expert-led sessions on “Biohacks for Lifelong Health” and “Nutrition and Movement for Menopause and Beyond,” offering evidence-based insights to support women’s health across the lifespan.
Sports Dietitian Lindsay Orbeta joined Agile Physical Therapy’s Injury Prevention Event
Sports dietitian Lindsay Orbeta, MS, RD, from UCSF Women’s Sports Medicine, recently participated in Agile Physical Therapy’s Injury Prevention Event, where she provided evidence-based nutrition strategies to support injury rehabilitation and recovery. The event aimed to integrate nutritional guidance with individualized physical therapy assessments to enhance athletes’ recovery processes and facilitate their return to sport.
During the event, Orbeta emphasized the critical role of nutrition in tissue repair and inflammation management. She discussed how adequate protein intake supports muscle regeneration, while nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Her insights underscored the importance of personalized nutrition plans tailored to each athlete’s specific needs and recovery goals.
Following the nutrition session, physical therapists at Agile conducted one-on-one assessments with athletes to evaluate their injuries and develop customized rehabilitation plans. These plans incorporated the nutritional strategies discussed, ensuring a comprehensive approach to recovery that addresses both physical therapy and dietary considerations.
This collaborative event highlighted the synergy between nutrition and physical therapy in injury prevention and recovery. By combining expert dietary advice with individualized rehabilitation programs, athletes are better equipped to recover effectively and return to their sports with reduced risk of re-injury.
Viking Soccer
St. Mary’s College Women’s Volleyball
San Francisco City College Tennis
Renew PT
Escape from Alcatraz Triathalon San Francisco
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