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Summer 2006 Back or Joint Pain? We Can Help.Can exercise help back pain? When is the right time to consider hip or knee surgery? What are the symptoms of a spinal fracture? How can you tell that arthritis is progressing? Area residents interested in these and many other questions related to back pain and joint pain recently came to AAMC for the answers. The AAMC Center for Spine Surgery and the AAMC Center for Joint Replacement each hosted events where specialized physicians addressed the newest treatments and technologies. At the Spine event, leading orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons focused on topics ranging from pain management to the latest minimally invasive procedures. Physicians at the Joint event offered those suffering from knee and hip pain information about non-operative therapies as well as the most effective and innovative hip and knee replacements. The hundreds of community members who attended also learned more about AAMC’s comprehensive programs for Spine and Joint. If you missed these recent events and are interested in attending in the future, or you would like more information on AAMC physicians and specialized centers, contact askAAMC, our 24-hour community telehealth line, at 443-481-4000 or 1-800-MD NURSE. Following are brief answers to the above questions. Consult your physician or health professional to learn more. Can exercise help back pain?Many people—up to 80 percent according to some statistics—will experience back pain at some time in their lives. A combination of stretching, strengthening the core muscles in the stomach and back, and aerobic exercise can be extremely helpful to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrences. Ask your doctor about an exercise program that is appropriate for you. When is the right time to consider hip or knee surgery?According to Marshall Steele, M.D., medical director for AAMC’s Joint Replacement Center, the time is different for everyone. People need to consider their level of pain and quality of life. Some studies indicate that having surgery sooner, before deformities and stiffness occurs, can result in better outcomes. What are the symptoms of a spinal fracture?Symptoms vary because fractures can come on gradually, especially in those who have bone degeneration from osteoporosis. Sudden, severe or worsening pain, loss of height, and spinal deformity or curve may indicate some sort of fracture. Stephen Faust, M.D., medical director of the AAMC Spine Center, says deformities may contribute to arthritis and nerve compression, so people should be evaluated to determine what kind of correction, surgical or otherwise, is indicated. How can you tell that arthritis is progressing?Increasing frequency and severity of pain, more severe and persistent swelling in a joint, increasing deformity or other angulation, and greater limitation of movement are all signs of progression of arthritis. Another sign is the loss of effectiveness of a medication which previously gave relief of symptoms. For a list of AAMC specialists or to be notified of upcoming seminars, call askAAMC at 443-481-4000. |
