Howard: Relieving Osteoarthritis Pain

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RELIEVING OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN WITH KNEE BRACES

Does your knee feel stiff or tight? Does it ache as you get moving in the morning, becoming less painful as the day goes on? Do common tasks such as walking, driving, or bending seem more difficult than they used to be? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of early- onset arthritis in your knee. Arthritis can hinder many qualities of life - from work, to hobbies, to overall mobility. Fortunately, Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics can help relieve some of your arthritic symptoms and help you find relief. For more information on how our services may benefit you, contact our office today. What is osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is themost commonly experienced formof arthritis that develops from a “wear and

tear” of cartilage in the affected joint. Osteoarthritis typically occurs naturally over time as one ages; however, it can also develop from a sudden injury to the joint or even from a previous injury that healed. For example, let’s say you were a football player in college who experienced a harsh blow to the knee. You seek treatment, recover, and return to the game. Although the injury healed in its entirety, it is still possible for you to develop osteoarthritis from it later in life. The same is true for labor-intensive careers. If you are constantly bending down to pick up and lift heavy boxes, that can take a toll on your knees as the years go on. If you are overweight, you may also be at a higher risk for developing osteoarthritis, as additional strain is being put on your knee joints.

HOW CAN KNEE BRACES HELP?

How can knee braces help? Knee braces can help lessen some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis by relieving pain and making it easier for you to move around. They work by shifting your weight off of the affected joint and allowing you to walk and move your knee comfortably. There are several designs that knee braces can come in, but most are comprised of the same materials: plastic, metal, or another composite material is used for basic structure and support, while synthetic rubber or moldable foam is used for padding and positioning. Many people with osteoarthritis of the knee report feeling as if their knee may buckle underneath them, or that the stiffness hinders them from moving in ways necessary to maneuver through everyday life. Knee braces take pressure off the joint and help patients stand with confidence. What should I do now? If you are suffering from osteoarthritis of the

knee, or you think you might be, contact Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics today to schedule a consultation. You will meet with one of our licensed CPOs to discuss your interest in a knee brace and determine if it will benefit you. During your knee brace evaluation and fitting, your CPO will examine your knee, take measurements, and ask you about your medical history and the physical activities you would like to increase with the help of your knee brace. You will likely be able to try on different styles of knee braces to determine which one feels best, and you will be asked to walk a few paces to see how your knee functions in them. Don’t suffer from arthritic knee pain any longer – take a stand and contact Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics today. We’ll help you enhance your knee’s function and get you moving again in no time!

www.howardrehabcenter.com

Patient Success Story It is nice to have two legs to stand “Results. Although I realize that they are not final, they are most encouraging to date. I find my greatest satisfaction is being able to walk side-by-side with my grandchildren. It is nice to have two legs to stand on once again. Thank you all at Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics.” on once again! Success Story - James C.

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FREE 15 Minute Check-Up • Consult with our experts • Review your problem • Receive recommendations on relieving your pain and improving motion

Roger Howard, CPO, Director

CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973

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Asparagus Risotto

INGREDIENTS • 4 cups (1-inch) slices asparagus • 3 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth • 1 1/2 cups water • 1 tbsp butter • 2 cups chopped onion (about 1 large) • 2 cups uncooked Arborio rice • 1/2 cup dry white wine • 1 cup (4 ounces) grated fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

5 DIRECTIONS Place 1 cup asparagus and 1 cup broth in a blender; puree until smooth. Combine puree, remaining 2 cups broth, and 1 1/2 cups water in a medium saucepan; bring to a simmer (do not boil). Keep warm over low heat. Melt butter in a large heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add onion to pan; cook 8 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in rice; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in wine; cook 2 minutes or until liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Add 1/2 cup broth mixture; cook 2 minutes or until the liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Add remaining puree mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until each portion of broth is absorbed before adding the next (about 30 minutes total). Stir in remaining 3 cups asparagus; cook 2 minutes. Stir in 3/4 cup cheese, cream, salt, and pepper. Transfer risotto to a bowl. Serve with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. 4 5 2 7 2 3 8 6 4 2 1 7 9 5 7 3 2 1 4 5 8 2 9 4 7 8 9 8 6 5

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Exercise Essentials

Try this simple exercise to help you feel better... Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

KNEE EXTENSION STRETCH While sitting, tighten your top thigh muscle to press the back of your knee downward towards the ground.

Exercises copyright of

www.simpleset.net

S H A R E P l ease sha r e t hese exercises with friends and family members to help them stay healthy and free from pain. S A V E Save these in a place where you can easily use them as needed. Watch for more exercises in our next issue.

We Listen, We Care, We Get Results CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973