Citizens Memorial Hospital | Vitality | Fall 2020

problems,” says Dr. Morrison. “If we confirm that surgery is necessary, we’ll do an arthroscopic procedure and repair the damage through several small incisions in the knee. Through exercises and physical therapy, patients usually recover in four to six weeks.” My aching back Middle-aged adults can also experience lower back pain, such as lumbar facet joint sprain. “Weight gain, aging, back injuries and weight-bearing jobs are all risk factors for facet joint damage,” says Dr. Morrison. “Facet joints are small, cartilage-lined points of contact where each individual vertebra meets the one above and below it. When the cartilage wears thin, pain can occur.” Lumbar facet joint sprain symptoms include pain and difficulty bending and turning, tender and sore lower back muscles, stiffness, and trouble standing up straight. “Once we confirm a facet joint syndrome diagnosis, our orthopedic specialists will develop a treatment plan that uses a combination of nonsurgical treatments,” Dr. Morrison says. “Treatment may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and core strengthening exercises. Our goal is to help the patient manage their pain and restore a healthy range of motion.” If conservative treatments aren’t enough to manage the joint pain, the physician may move on to minimally invasive nonsurgical therapies such as medical branch blocks; injections; radiofrequency ablation (RFA); and, in rare cases, spine surgery. Dr. Morrison says that the best way to protect your knees and back is to keep moving; maintain a healthy weight; and avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as unsupportive shoes, heavy lifting and repetitive motion. Put your health first “At 40, it’s a good time to evaluate your well-being and stop putting your health aside,” he suggests. “When we hit middle age, we lose 1% of muscle mass per year. Incorporate weight-bearing exercise, along with cardiovascular exercise, into your activity plans. Improve flexibility, balance and range of motion through yoga and Pilates. And remember to eat foods that will keep your joints healthy and help you maintain a healthy weight.” Other orthopedic specialists at CMH Orthopedic & Spine Center include board certified surgeons Jonathan Gray, D.O.; David Rogers, M.D.; and Ron Smith, M.D., as well as physician assistants Stephanie Aug, PA-C; Retha Dawes, PA-C; and Jake Condren, PA-C. ORTHOPEDIC CARE From diagnostic testing and evaluation to surgery and rehabilitation, CMH Orthopedic & Spine Center offers personalized assessments, treatment plans and complete orthopedic care that includes minimally invasive spine surgery, hip and knee replacement, carpal tunnel and rotator cuff repair. Orthopedic care is also available in Appleton City, El Dorado Springs and Osceola. To schedule an appointment call CMH Orthopedic & Spine Center at 417-777-2663 . I r ia tic t ti l i t r r r ilit i , rt i i f r r li , tr t t l l rt ic r t t i l inim ly i i i , ip r l t, l t l r t t r f i . rt ic r i l il l i let it , l r i Buffalo. le int t, call rt ic in t r t - - . citizensmemorial.com 13