Oh! My Aching Knees: Dr. Hritz Discusses Treatment Options

Noted area orthopedist Michael Hritz, MD, presented a Lunch & Learn program, “Conservative and Surgical Options for Knee Arthritis” at O’Neill Healthcare Bay Village Tuesday, May 22.

“Hips and knees are a big part of what we do because they are weight bearing joints,” said Dr. Hritz of Orthopedic Associates of Westlake and Avon. “A knee is like a hinge on a rotation. If it is rusty, it isn’t moving too well.”

Arthritis, said Dr. Hritz, is a serious health condition, not an inconvenience, that affects one in three Americans and is the leading cause of disability in America.

It is important to learn about your arthritis and treatment options early. A treatment plan can control disease progression.

Osteoarthritis is most common and is caused by cartilage breakdown or loss of synovial fluid that protects joint cushioning and lubrication.

A simple x-ray can help you learn where you arthritis falls on a scale of moderate to severe.  Knees, hips, elbows, feet, hands, shoulders and spine all can be affected by arthritis. Knee symptoms include pain, loss of motion, stiffness, swelling and ‘catching’ while in motion. Increasing age, overweight, overuse, injury and family history all are risk factors.

Non-surgical treatments are tried before surgery is considered. Lifestyle changes, weight loss, exercise, physical therapy and supplements all might help.

Medications include acetaminophen, anti-inflammatories and topical creams. Corticosteriods and gel shots are also used. Viscosupplementation is the injection of cushioning gel into the joint. Synvisc is a brand name gel that is successful for many patients.

Surgery is appropriate for patients who may need a simple arthroscopic clean up all the way up to a partial or total knee replacement. Surgery is an option when previous approaches are not acceptable.

“Exercise is important,” said Dr. Hritz in recommending low impact activities like walking, cycling and swimming exercises. “Don’t just sit there. You just get stiffer and stiffer.”

A resource like O’Neill Healthcare, said Dr. Hritz, is an ideal choice for someone recovering from a surgical knee procedure. It offers all the needed therapy services and presents a seamless transition from the hospital for both doctor and patient in all areas of electronic access to patient records, rehab plans and care.