• Who Is Most Likely To Experience Knee Osteoarthritis?

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    Osteoarthritis has become the most common form of arthritis in the United States. It is especially prevalent in countries where people tend to live longer, and to also be more overweight.

    This degenerative joint condition is sometimes called “wear and tear disease” and it stems from several sources, causing inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joints. It is a disease of the joints that typically has the greatest impact on the cartilage. Cartilage is the flexible tissue located in the joint area along the ends of bones.

    Cartilage has an important role, serving as a shock absorber. For people suffering from osteoarthritis, the cartilage has worn away causing bone on bone friction which can be extremely painful. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it can dramatically impact a person’s range of motion.

    9 Factors That Impact Your Chances of Knee Osteoarthritis

    While people of all backgrounds and ages may experience knee osteoarthritis, there are risk factors that increase a person’s likelihood. Here are some of the most common factors that influence

    1. Biology: While both men and women may suffer from osteoarthritis, this painful condition is more likely to strike women. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), out of the 27 million Americans affected by osteoarthritis, sixty percent are women. There are numerous reasons for this gender disparity including biological differences in the pliability of joints, and anatomical differences in the alignment of hips and knees.
    2. Genetics: Osteoarthritis tends to run in families. There is a good chance if your mother or father had osteoarthritis during his or her lifetime, you could develop this disease as well.Knee Osteoarthritis
    3. Hormones: Researchers have found that hormones tend to affect the cartilage located in between large joints. A study found that women on hormone-replacement therapy even after menopause lose the protection against developing osteoarthritis. Dr. Alexander Shikhman has explained that researchers have also located a risk of osteoarthritis with pregnancy. This research found the likelihood of needing a knee replacement rose 8 percent with every case of childbirth.
    4. Excess Weight: Putting more weight and pressure on your joints tends to wear the cartilage down much faster. The Arthritis Foundation reports that with every extra pound you gain, you add three pounds of pressure to your knees and six pounds to your hips.
    5. Age: Osteoarthritis is known to become increasingly prevalent with age, leveling off around age 75.
    6. Previous Injury: Because this issue worsens overtime, sports-related knee trauma or previous injuries begin to weaken your knee cartilage. Research from the Current Opinion in Rheumatology found that 41 to 51 percent of previous knee injury cases showed signs of osteoarthritis in later years. (more…)

    What is Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis?

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis or PVNS is a condition that causes the synovium to thicken and overgrown. This thin layer of tissue is located internally between the joints and tendons. Inside a healthy, unaffected joint, the synovium is responsible for excreting a minimal amount of fluid to lubricate the cartilage. This improves movement and rotation for the joint. When the synovium produces larger quantities of fluid, it tends to make the joint swell and decrease movement.

    Luckily, the benign mass or tumor associated with PVNS does not spread to other areas of the body. Besides pain and restricted movement, this joint condition is a progressive disorder that may lead to bone damage or arthritis.

    Eighty percent of all PVNS patients have this disorder in their knees. The other percentage tends to affect young adults in their 30s and 40s inside the hip, ankle, shoulder or elbow joints. Many cases of PVNS are unknown, but genetic changes have been hypothesized. Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis

    There are two types of PVNS: Localized and diffused. When one area of the joint or tendon is affected by the tumor, this is identified as localized PVNS. A diffused case involves the entire joint. Unfortunately, a case of diffused PVNS is more difficult to treat because it involves the entire area.

    This condition causes exaggerated amounts of swelling in the affected joint, as well as stiffness and pain. While a physician should conduct a physical exam, other diagnostic tests including xrays, MRIs, joint aspirations and biopsies are great ways to identify PVNS. Joint aspirations that reveal bloody joint fluid are a good indicator for PVNS.

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    Weight Loss Program with Orthopaedic Specialists

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    Orthopaedic Specialists is offering a wonderful new program to help you lose weight, increase your energy, and get healthier. To learn more about our new weight loss program and ask questions, please consider attending an information session hosted by Dr. Stacie Grossfeld. (You’ll also be treated to free samples, healthy and delicious recipes, convenient grocery shopping lists, and more!)

    Weight loss Program August 2015

     

    Fighting the Aging Process

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    The Effects of Fitness on the Aging Process

    As we age, are there patterns of physical decline? Can those be slowed down or reversed with change in lifestyle? An excellent article was published in the September 2014 volume of the Journal of American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Dr. Bryan Vopat discussed the common physical changes that occur with aging and how to slow down this decline with physical training. A summary of the article is below.

    The major changes that occur in the musculoskeletal system with aging are: bone density loss (osteoporosis), the strength and flexibility of muscles decrease (sarcopenia), ligaments and tendons become stiffer and articular cartilage that covers the ends of bones breaks down (osteoarthritis).

    Aging Athletes Competing Longer and Performing Better

    Evidence over recent years has documented that older athletes are competing longer, and better then they have in the past. They are competing with younger athletes and breaking records within their age groups. These trends are changing the way we think about the older athlete and physical aging.

    Older athletes are role models for the concept that age-related decline is not inevitable and that physical activity can counteract the decline in muscle loss, bone loss, and reduced flexibility. More and more athletes are competing in marathon and ironman triathlete events.  At the Ironman Triathlon, the number of athletes older than 40-years-old has increased from 25 percent to 50 perAging Athletescent over the last 25 years! While the number of marathon runners over age 40 has increased over the last 20-30 years, making 50 percent of all marathons older than 40-years-old.

    Eight masters (older than age 40) Ironman Triathlon records were set in 2010 with three of the records set in the age group of  65 years and up. For the past 25 years at ironman events, the average performance has improved by 7.5 percent for all age groups older than 45-years-old.

    A study that looked at 900,000 marathon runners found that 25 percent are in their mid to late 60s and outperformed half of the runners age 20-54. One of the most interesting findings from the article is the results from the New York City Marathons from 1989 to 2009. This research found that the running times for men older than 64 and women older than 44 years have not yet plateaued. They are constantly improving with the athletes getting faster. This indicates that they have not likely reached their performance limits.

    Aging and Bone Loss

    Typically women start losing bone mass at age 30 and can lose up to 1 percent per year. After menopause, that percentage rises to 3 percent per year. Men, on the other hand, begin losing bone mass much later. Starting at age 40, men lose bone mass at a slow rate of  0.5 percent per year and that does not accelerate until they reach their 70s and 80s.

    Research has shown that exercise can prevent bone loss in the older athlete. A study examining master sprinters, ages ranging from 40-85 years old, maintained tibial bone strength and  bone density. Senior Olympic runners over age 65 had significantly greater overall bone mineral density numbers compared to controls. They also found that when comparing the senior Olympic runners to senior Olympic swimmers, the runners had better bone mineral density indicating that weight bearing exercise is critical.

    In the seniors who participated in tai chi for 6 months had increased scores (6-9 %) on their bone density DEXA scans, compared to inactive women in their age group. This indicates that some exercise is better than none and that exercise doesn’t have to be performed at a competitive level.

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    Does Weight Loss Reduce Joint Stress?

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    Reduce Joint Stress

    According to the latest medical research, you can reduce joint stress on your body by living a healthy lifestyle along with appropriate weight loss.

    Reduce Joint Stress By Shedding Pounds

    “A new study shows that for each pound of body weight loss, there is a 4 pound reduction in joint stress among overweight and obese people with osteoarthritis of the knee. The accumulative reduction in the load for 1 pound loss of weight would be more that 4,800 pounds per mile walked. For people losing 10 pounds, each knee would be subjected to 40,000 pounds less in compressive load per mile walked.”

    – Dr. Stephen Messier, The Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatism, July 2005

    What is Gluten? An Overview

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    what is gluten and gluten-freeToday, the term “gluten-free” gets passed around casually in conversation or while walking through the grocery store, but what does this actually mean? What is gluten? Gluten is the name for the proteins found in wheat, rye, barley and triticale. This protein helps foods maintain their shape, while acting as a glue.

    Some people have an allergy to gluten. People with a sensitivity or allergy to gluten are advised to avoid foods that contain this protein. The big three gluten contributors are wheat, barley and rye. Many common foods contain these three ingredients including: breads, baked goods, pasta, cereals, sauces, salad dressings, beer and many more. Gluten may also be found in certain products including lipstick and lip glass, nutritional supplements, vitamins, medications, and things like play-dough.

    People with a gluten allergy are commonly diagnosed with Celiac’s disease. This is an autoimmune disorder affecting people who are genetically predisposed to a gluten allergy. For those with this disease, ingesting gluten often leads to small intestine damage and other distinct symptoms. This disorder is extremely common and it is estimated that 1 out of 100 people are affected by Celiac’s disease worldwide.

    For those affected by Celiac’s disease, the general treatment includes a strong, lifelong adherence to gluten-free foods. Consuming foods rich in gluten can potentially damage the small intestine and cause a variety of other health problems those with a gluten allergy. While it may seem like a huge section of food options are removed from a person’s diet when a gluten allergy is present, there are an increasing number of gluten-free options available. (more…)

    Protein Bar Recipes

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    While protein shakes combined with a diet of fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, lean meats, fish and nuts, is recommended, sometimes you need a healthy and quick option that also tastes great. Protein bars can be a great option, especially when they are loaded with healthy ingredients.

    Here are some protein bar recipes to try that will leave you full and satisfied. These protein bars are an excellent source of energy and nutrients for a busy day ahead! These protein bars can be made ahead of time and packed away for on-the-go eating. You can even freeze them and use on an as-needed basis.Protein Bar

    Chocolate Orange Protein Bars:

    • 6 Scoops Arbonne Chocolate Protein Powder
    • 1 Cup (ground) Flax Seed
    • ¼ Cup Almond Milk
    • ¼ Cup Orange Juice
    • 3 TBSP Nut Butter
    • 1 TSP Salt
    • Zest of 1 Orange to Taste

    Place ingredients into food processor. Put into Pyrex dish and press down with plastic wrap. Place in freezer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Take out of freezer and cut into designated servings.

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    Treating Chronic Knee Pain – 7 Things You Can Do

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    How to treat chronic knee painChronic knee pain can be debilitating and extremely frustrating, especially when it comes to physical activity. Knee pain is the result of one or many different causes. Age, injury, arthritis and excess weight can damage the cartilage inside the knee joint.

    Cartilage works like a cushion for your knee and over time it gets broken down. With added body weight, injuries or arthritis, your aging knee may become increasingly vulnerable to constant force.

    Treating Chronic Knee Pain

    Prolonged knee pain can be a long, painful injury, but there are things you can do to get some relief.

    1. Rest: This seems like the easiest alternative, however, staying off of your feet can be a hard task for those always on the go. By allowing your body to get some rest, your knee can take a break from constantly bearing weight. This time off allows your cartilage to strengthen and rebuild.
    2. Anti-Inflammatory Medication: While taking medicine for knee pain may not seem ideal, this can be an important way to help reduce inflammation and provide some pain relief. This treatment is the fairly conservative and its main goal is to help you get back on your feet.
    3. Ice: Icing the affected knee(s) can provide instant pain relief and also helps reduce inflammation. Icing is key for those who endure physical activity with chronic knee pain. You should apply ice to your knee at least two to three times a day for best results.
    4. Lose Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can definitely help alleviate some knee pain. For those carrying extra pounds, losing weight can seem like an insurmountable challenge. Weight loss is something a lot of people struggle with and put off. In order for your knee to feel its best, a healthy weight loss program might be your best solution.
    5. Change Exercise: Runners and other athletes that engage in high impact sports tend to put a lot of strain and pressure on their knees. Fortunately there are several alternative exercises that will still help you maintain a high level of fitness. Try switching up your routine with non-weight bearing activities like swimming or biking.
    6. Physical Therapy: If your knee pain has become so severe that you need more than just rest or icing, physical therapy may be a viable option. Here, specialists can direct you with strengthening exercises and pain relieving stretches for your knee.
    7. Knee Surgery: This is the most serious treatment option. Any type of surgery comes with risks, so this decision should not be made lightly. After other options have been explored, surgery may be the appropriate treatment.

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    Dr. Grossfeld Appointed to Louisville YMCA Board of Directors

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    Louisville Orthopedic Joins Board of Directors for YMCALouisville orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld MD has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the YMCA at Norton Commons’ in Louisville, Kentucky. While serving on the board, Dr. Grossfeld is excited to support the YMCA’s mission of building healthy and strong children, families and communities.

    Dr. Grossfeld, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician in private practice at Orthopaedic Specialists in Louisville, Kentucky, also serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Louisville (U of L).

    In addition to her recent appointment on the YMCA Board of Directors, Dr. Grossfeld also serves as a board member of the Louisville Sports Commission (LSC), where she has played an instrumental role in developing the Health and Wellness Committee.

    Dr. Grossfeld’s commitment to health and wellness is evident in all aspects of her life. Most recently she launched a weight loss program for her patients as a way to reduce pain and improve health.  As part of this effort, Dr. Grossfeld’s patients are eligible to receive a free 2-week YMCA membership which includes one free hour of coaching session to get started. (more…)

    50 Races in 50 States

    Posted by Stacie Grossfeld

    It’s a Half Marathon, not a Sprint: 50 Races in 50 States

    Pre RaceDon and Peggy Hoben have taken on the phenomenal task of completing a half marathon in all 50 states. Their journey began in 1999 and they are finishing their last race in Hawaii later this year. This ambitious project started after Don’s company offered employees the opportunity to receive free personal training at a local fitness studio (The Training Studio in Louisville, KY).
    At the time, Don was 50-years-old and looking to lose weight. This opportunity to get in better shape and to lose weight was just what he needed and he signed on.

    In 2000, Don and Peggy both began getting involved in the local racing scene in Louisville. They enjoyed competing in the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon, the Marine Corps marathon, and several others. After spending many hours training for these races, Don started to get tired focusing on the same old goals. While sitting inside the Ken Combs Running store on Shelbyville Rd. one day, Don and Peggy came up with a unique idea. They made the decision together to take their training to a whole new level by completing a half marathon in every single state.

    At the time, a fellow employee at Don’s company had inspired them on this journey after she had completed seven half marathons on every continent. In the beginning, Don and Peggy’s strategy was more spontaneous and oftentimes races took place just two or three weeks apart. Since 2007, they have altered their strategy and have planned for many new adventures.

    Not surprisingly, during some of these races, the weather has not been ideal. When asked about his favorite race, Don replies first with the races that were the most challenging and unforgettable. For example, Don and Peggy competed in the Chicago half marathon, or what they like to call, “The Hurricane.” They spent the entire 13.1 miles running in nonstop rain. The race in Utah left Don and Peggy wishing for warmer clothing, while the hills in the San Francisco half marathon proved to be an unforgettable challenge.

    Despite encountering some rough conditions, they have also experienced many new adventures and sights while traveling to races across the country. When possible, along with the races, they enjoy spending time searching out Presidential graves and libraries, National Parks and capitals in the states that they visit. Most recently they completed a race in Maine and are now looking forward USA Mapto their last two – one in Vermont and the grand finale in Hawaii.

    Because Peggy walks these races, while Don executes a combination of running and walking, the two have different training schedules. Their paces leave them separated for most of the race. Don used to go back and finish the race with Peggy, but now he patiently waits at the finish line for her return.

    This 50 half marathon goal has not left Don and Peggy without injury. The two have both faced meniscus tears, and minor knee injuries. Don shares his injury prevention plans which involve taking it easy, despite completing four to six half marathons a year. He explains, “It’s more about finishing the race, rather than trying to get a new PR every time.”  However, the 65-year-old hopes to break his goal of two hours for one of his final races.  (more…)