This form of arthritis is commonly cause by an auto-immune disorder, meaning your body reacts to itself, opposed to osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear-and-tear. It occurs when the immune system attacks the cells and tissues.

“Juvenile idiopathic arthritis typically affects the knee, causing persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Symptoms are more prevalent in the morning,” says James Guille, M.D., pediatric orthopaedic surgeon and President of the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society.

If the child is experiencing symptoms with no pre-existing history of injury, they should seek medical attention. Diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis can be difficult since joint pain and swelling are caused by many other diseases and conditions.

“The condition is diagnosed through a process of exclusions, after examining an unremarkable health history and normal x-rays. Additionally, laboratory studies can aid in confirming the diagnosis,” states Dr. Guille.

“Treatment includes guided exercises provided by a physical therapist and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications,” explains Dr. Guille. “It’s important that the child upholds an active lifestyle and takes the medications to decrease pain and minimize potential joint damage.”

If left undiagnosed, juvenile idiopathic arthritis can cause other complications, like interfering with the child’s growth and bone development. Please seek medical attention if the child is suffering from joint pain, swelling, and/or stiffness.

Dr. Guille sees patients in our Pottstown and Exton offices. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, please call 610-792-9292.

The post What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

If this sounds like you (or one of the 15 million other Americans struggling with achy, painful joints), your next question is likely going to be: “When should I see a doctor?”

This Joint is Jumpin’

“Active lifestyles in sports and athletic activities can put stress on our joints,” says Jeffrey Vakil, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon with Premier Orthopaedics in Chestnut Hill. Typically, high-impact activities like running and football, or repetitive jumping sports such as basketball, can cause knee and hip joints to wear out as we age.

“Having your hip or knee pain evaluated by a qualified specialist may be in your best interest,” Dr. Vakil says.

Fear not, though. If your running or football glory days are behind you, there are lower-impact options to stay fit and active. Walking, light aerobics, swimming, biking, hiking, treadmill and the elliptical are great alternatives to high-impact activities.

Chronic Pain Warriors

The great Jack Benny once said, “I don’t deserve this award, but I have arthritis and I don’t deserve that either.”

Arthritis, or the wearing out of the protective surface called cartilage, is a chronic degenerative condition commonly found in the hips and knees. As we age, most cases of hip and knee pain are the direct result of osteoarthritis, which is one of the leading causes of disability in our country.

“People as young as in their forties can develop arthritis,” Dr. Vakil says, “but it’s typically seen in people 50 and above.” He explains that hip arthritis can feel like a “groin pull” with groin achiness and/or thigh discomfort typically ending at the knee. You may also experience achiness/pain in your buttock. Arthritis of the knee is typically localized to the area surrounding the knee itself, however, it can radiate up and down the leg. “Pain that is caused by arthritis of the hip or knee is often described as chronic, and dull like a toothache – but can also be sharp, stabbing or shooting,” Dr. Vakil says. “These symptoms typically get worse with walking, climbing stairs, standing, and donning shoes or socks. Sometimes, it can even adversely affect sleep.”

If your hip or knee pain is constant or slowly progressing, seek out the opinion of a healthcare professional. Your primary care provider is a great place to start. He or she may refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon, a specialist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.

Surgery is rarely a first-line treatment. There are many conservative options available that can be considered before recommending any invasive procedure.

Above all, remember this: When in doubt, check it out!

Jeffrey Vakil, M.D. is an orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in hips and knees. He is currently accepting new patients in his office located at 8815 Germantown Pike, Suite 14, in Philadelphia. Please call 484-768-9101 for an appointment or fill out a secure online appointment form.

The post When Should Hip and Knee Pain be Evaluated? appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

On the Road to Recovery

Anne Colton, M.D., a board-certified orthopaedist with Premier Orthopaedics at Crozer Health, says that “although advancements in technology, such as minimally invasive techniques, have helped shorten recovery times and enabled patients to resume driving sooner, there are a number of factors related to the individual, the procedure, and the joint itself that determine one’s particular course.” Below are examples of the factors that will influence when you can expect to drive again:

1. Physical condition and health before surgery
2. Participation in rehabilitation or exercise program before surgery
3. Automatic or standard transmission
4. Replacement of right or left-side joint, or both
5. of procedure (hip, knee, full, partial, etc.)
6. Minimally invasive or open procedure
7. Medications prescribed
8. Insurance company (Some require your doctor to provide written documentation with their approval

How Quickly Can You Expect to Drive?

For those who have had hip surgery, some may drive as soon as two weeks after the procedure. Others may need longer; up to one or possibly two months. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe for you to drive. For those who have had right leg knee surgery and feel comfortable, it commonly takes about four weeks before you can get behind the wheel. Patients who have had surgery on their left knee may be able to drive sooner, again if comfortable. Dr. Colton notes, “The issue is the ability to use the brake, as reaction times for those who have had right hip or knee surgery may be slower than usual after their procedure. Of course, any delayed response in braking could be dangerous in an emergency or situation that requires quick action.”

Keeping Your Mind and Body Sharp

As expected, in order to resume driving, patients must no longer be taking pain medications. They can make you lethargic and affect your ability to function and react. Driving requires your reflexes and muscle strength to be restored. With physical rehabilitation, your flexibility and strength should improve significantly. Meeting both of these requirements will help ensure your safety, and that of others.

Getting Back in the Driver’s Seat

Whether driving or riding as a passenger, getting in and out of a car can present a few challenges, especially if your car is compact or a sports car. These models entail sitting low to the ground, which may make it difficult for you to get in and out of.

Following surgery, a nurse or physical therapist will teach you how to get in and out of the car. It is recommended that seats be adjusted to provide maximum legroom, and if the seat is too low, to add a pillow or folded blanket to elevate your position a few inches. Taking such actions will be more comfortable for you and help you avoid dislocation or falling.

Request for a Handicap Parking Placard

With driving usually comes parking. If you had not requested a handicap parking placard prior to your surgery, you should do so following your procedure, as it will ease your access to stores, libraries, the supermarket, etc. Simply request approval from your doctor, keeping in mind that specific regulations and required documentation vary from state to state.

If you are thinking about or scheduled for joint replacement and wondering about your ability to drive, be sure to talk to your surgeon regarding your concerns.

For more information about Premier Orthopaedics at Crozer Health, and/or a physician referral, fill out our appointment form or call 855-255-6468.

The post When Can I Drive After Orthopaedic Surgery? appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

If your knee is due for a replacement, it is important to understand what will happen. Of course, you should speak with your doctor about the procedure and the specific techniques he or she plans to use, but below is a general overview of what you can expect before and during surgery.

Before surgery you will be prepared or “prepped.” First, an IV line will be inserted through a vein in either your arm or hand, allowing intravenous liquids and medications to flow directly into your bloodstream. In addition, the skin around the incision area will be shaved. According to James Costanzo, M.D., a board-certified orthopaedist with Premier Orthopaedics at Crozer-Keystone Health System, “We want to avoid any situation which may invite bacteria to enter the surgical area. Shaving helps keep the area clean, which helps avoid complications in the future.” In most cases, spinal anesthesia is used.  This is the best form of anesthesia because it completely numbs you from the waist down and is very low risk. In some patients, general anesthesia, in which you are completely asleep, may be necessary.

So how long does a typical knee replacement surgery take? According to Dr. Costanzo, “Assuming the patient is healthy and there are no complications, knee replacement surgery shouldn’t take more than two hours.”

What happens during knee replacement surgery?

Once you are prepped, your surgeon will perform the surgery by first removing the damaged part of the joint, along with the surfaces of the thigh bone and adjacent shin. They are then replaced with an artificial implant or device that mimics the knee’s function and mobility.

Patients who’ve undergone knee replacement typically report significantly better flexibility than they had before surgery, with their pain dramatically reduced or eliminated.

For more information about Premier Orthopaedics at Crozer-Keystone, and/or a physician referral, fill out our appointment form or call 855-255-6468.

The post What to Expect When Having Knee Replacement Surgery appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

Before joint replacement surgery, doctors may recommend:

Weight loss through diet and exercise

To relieve pain, doctors often encourage patients to lose weight, as every extra 10 pounds is like having another 30+ pounds of pressure on your knees.

Medications

Although the controversy surrounding opioids has impacted the prescription and use of pain medications such as oxycontin and percocet, over-the-counter medications, such as NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), are proven to help relieve inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling caused by osteoarthritis and other conditions. Glucosamine sulfate is also effective in reducing pain and other symptoms. Most patients can tolerate this and NSAIDs with minimal, if any, side effects.

Rehabilitation

Doctors may also recommend physical therapy to reduce joint pain and stiffness. Dr. Giammattei says, “Our specially trained physical therapists work closely with patients, customizing an exercise plan that helps strengthen the muscles supporting the joint.” In addition to physical therapy, they may also apply the right mix of heat and ice, or incorporate other methods such as electronic nerve stimulation to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the joint. Many patients enjoy working with a therapist, as they are with them every step of the way, providing motivation, guidance and support.

Injections

Another option available to patients is cortisone or hyaluronic acid shots, used to relieve pain and lubricate the muscles supporting the joint, respectively. If they work, these shots can reduce pain in the short term and last for months.

Minimally invasive surgery

If none of the above treatments are effective, doctors may try minimally invasive or arthroscopic surgery. Through small incisions, doctors insert a scope with a camera at the end of it. The camera produces images that allow surgeons to not only assess any damage of cartilage, bone, etc., but also to repair it using tiny instruments. Strong candidates for this procedure often experience sharp pain or feel that their joints lock or catch. Many who undergo arthroscopic surgery are able to avoid replacement surgery completely, or at least delay it.

Additional options

There are several other procedures available in the doctors’ arsenal, such as the osteotomy. During this procedure, which is usually recommended for younger patients, the surgeon cuts into or shortens a bone to relieve pressure from an arthritic area.

Some patients also choose to incorporate alternative medicines and therapies, such as acupuncture.

If you are experiencing joint pain, be sure to speak with your doctor about your options.

For more information about Premier Orthopaedics at Crozer-Keystone and/or to make an appointment, fill out our appointment form or call 855-255-6468.

The post Are there alternatives to joint replacement surgery? appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

There are some causes of arthritis that you can’t change such as aging, family history, and gender (arthritis is most common in women). There are over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions, and changing certain behaviors and circumstances can help prevent various types of arthritis.

Continue reading to learn more about what you can do now to reduce your risk of developing arthritis later.

1.Exercise

Daily exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight, which is an important way you can reduce your risk of arthritis. Because your knees support your body weight, being obese can be very damaging to those joints. Being ten pounds overweight increases the force on your knees by 30 to 60 pounds with each step you take.

Perform low-impact aerobic exercises, like walking and swimming, to improve your overall health and reduce pressure on your joints. To maximize the benefits of exercise, add simple weight training and stretching to your program to strengthen muscles and maintain your flexibility and range of motion.

Diet and exercise can help you maintain a weight that’s not taxing on your joints.

2.Diet

Incorporate fish into your diet that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which is a healthy polyunsaturated fat. Omega-3 fatty acids have many health benefits and can reduce inflammation in the body. Studies also show that women who eat fish regularly may be at a lower risk for rheumatoid arthritis.

Try adding fish such as salmon, trout, mackerel, and sardines to your meals twice a week.

3.Avoid Injury

Putting a lot of stress on your joints can cause serious wear and tear that can eventually result in osteoarthritis. Playing sports and sustaining an injury can severely damage the cartilage in your joints. These injured joints are more likely to develop arthritis even though symptoms most likely won’t show up until many years after an injury was sustained. About fifteen percent of people diagnosed with osteoarthritis might have developed the disease as the result of an injury.

4.Improve Posture

Correct posture takes the pressure off of stressed joints and can help prevent arthritis in the spine, hips, and knees. Studies have also shown that standing up straight can boost mood and battle depression. Perfecting your posture can have a positive impact on your overall wellbeing and reduce your risk for developing arthritis. Improve your posture by performing exercises that strengthen your core muscles and keep your back straight.

While you may not be able to completely prevent arthritis from occurring in your joints, making these few changes will certainly help lower your risk factors for developing the disease.

For information about how rehabilitation and non-operative methods can help relieve your pain, click here to download our eBook, The Patient’s Guide to Non-Operative Care and Rehabilitation.

The post Four Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Arthritis appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints which causes inflammation and the thickening of synovium, or the fluid that lubricates the joints. This results in a lot of swelling and pain in and around the joints. If rheumatoid arthritis isn’t treated, it can continue to progress and damage the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones.

Common Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis typically begins in the smaller joints like the joints in your fingers and feet. Some of the most common symptoms you’ll experience include the following:

• Tender, warm, or swollen joints
• Joint stiffness in the morning that sometimes lasts for hours
• Rheumatoid nodules, or firm bumps of tissue under the skin on your arms
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite or weight loss

As the arthritis progresses, these symptoms often spread to your wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders. The joint effect is symmetrical, so you’ll usually notice that these symptoms occur in the same joints on both sides of the body. If one wrist or ankle is affected, usually the other one is too.

Signs and symptoms will likely vary in severity and typically come and go. A period where you experience a lot of inflammation and pain is called a flare and can last for days or months.

Additional Symptoms

Rheumatoid doesn’t only affect the joints in the body, it also affects body systems such as the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It can damage the tissue surrounding the joints, as well as the eyes, heart, and lungs.

It can also cause the following:

• Dry, red eyes, sensitivity to light, and impaired vision
• Dry mouth, gum irritation, or infection
• Inflammation of blood vessels
• Anemia (low number of red blood cells)

In women, rheumatoid arthritis commonly begins between the ages of 30 and 60, while in men it generally occurs later in life. Having a family member with rheumatoid arthritis increases your odds of developing the disease, however, the majority of people who have rheumatoid arthritis don’t have a family history.

It’s important that you’re aware of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, so that you can contact a doctor as soon as possible if you ever start to experience them.

To learn about how rehabilitation and non-operative methods can help relieve arthritis pain, click here to download our eBook, The Patient’s Guide to Non-Operative Care and Rehabilitation.

The post A Guide to Recognizing the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis appeared first on Premier Orthopaedics.