Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Euclid - (Page 6)

Pain, pain, Though we may not want to admit it, we’re all getting older. and as we age, the general wear and tear of day-to-day life takes a toll on our bodies, and for some, causes the onset of arthritis. while we often associate arthritis with old age, and indeed the risk of developing arthritis does increase with age, more than half of those with arthritis are younger than 65, and nearly 60 percent are women. go away Looking for solutions to your nagging aches and pains? Find out what worked for Mike Loovis most often felt in the knee or hip joints, symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, redness and warmth. What Treatments Are Available? Treatment for osteoarthritis can be simple, incorporating things like maintaining a balanced diet, losing weight and modifying your activities. over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also help relieve oa symptoms, as can physical therapy. Splints and braces can sometimes support damaged or weakened joints. For mike Loovis, a 60-something lifelong athlete and avid squash player, chronic arthritis pain developed over time. when Loovis was in his mid-50s, James williams, mD, an orthopaedic surgeon with Cleveland Clinic orthopaedics at euclid hospital, performed arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. after surgery, Dr. williams told Loovis that he found some osteoarthritis. after completing rehabilitation, Loovis resumed playing squash. But as time went on, he began to experience significant pain in his left knee, even when just taking the stairs. he discussed his options, including knee replacement surgery, with Dr. williams. But that would mean Loovis could no longer play squash, and he wasn’t ready to accept that. That’s when Dr. williams recommended a type of injection to address the pain. The injections, called viscosupplements, contain a gel-like substance that acts as an artificial joint fluid. The gel contains hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in normal joint fluid and other body tissues. Dr. williams gave Loovis the initial injections, which provide some lubrication and shock absorbency to the joint. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect, provide an analgesic effect for pain relief, and nourish the cartilage. Dr. williams told Loovis it could take eight to 10 weeks to see any result. after 14 weeks, sPRinG 2012 What Causes Arthritis? osteoarthritis (oa) is the most common joint disorder. as the cartilage (the firm rubbery tissue that cushions the bones in your joints) breaks down and wears away, bones rub together. along with aging and general wear, other factors that can increase the incidence of oa include being overweight, experiencing bone fractures or other joint injuries, having a job that requires repetitive movement and participating in sports that involve direct impact on your joints. Where to Find the Top Care in Ohio Cleveland Clinic’s Orthopaedic & Rheumatologic Institute offers expert diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation for adults and children with bone, joint or connective tissue disorders. The institute blends the strengths of Cleveland Clinic’s Orthopaedic Program and Rheumatology Program, both ranked among the top four nationally by U.S.News & World Report (the top rankings in Ohio). For information, go to clevelandclinic.org/ortho. 6 HeAlTH essenTiAls http://www.clevelandclinic.org/ortho

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Euclid

Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Euclid
Exciting news about Health Essentials
11 reasons to start walking now
A grandmother’s strength
This arthritis treatment worked for Mike Loovis

Health Essentials - Spring 2012 - Euclid