ACMC | Pulse | Winter 2013-2014 - page 4

Cleveland Clinic
orthopaedic
surgeon Mark
Verdun, DO, PhD
Call today
Mark Verdun, DO, PhD, is
accepting new patients.
To schedule an
appointment, call
440-997-6910
.
To view his profile and
see a complete list of
services he offers, please visit
.
IS YOUR HIP JUST NOT HOPPING LIKE IT USED TO?
Is your knee now needing a
lot of attention? Or is your shoulder shouldering more than its fair share of pain?
If so, then it may be time to think about replacing that joint—especially if
you’ve tried other things, like taking medications and exercising, and you still
hurt. Here’s what you need to know about this potentially life-changing surgery.
Out with the old
Like many things, joints can eventually wear out. Age, injury and diseases
such as arthritis may take a toll. Your favorite activities—even everyday
life—can become difficult and uncomfortable.
Joint replacement involves surgically removing a damaged joint and
inserting one made of plastic, metal or both in its place. In some cases,
surgeons cement the pieces of the new joint into existing bone. Over time,
bone grows around the artificial joint, holding it in place. The replaced joint
will function just like a healthy joint.
Hips and knees are the most commonly replaced joints. But ankles,
fingers, elbows and shoulders can also be replaced.
The road to recovery
Typically, you spend at least a few days in the hospital following joint
replacement surgery.
You’ll begin using your new joint right away. Physical therapy will help
you strengthen your muscles and improve your range of motion. Once you’re
home, it will be important to exercise with your doctor’s guidance. Eating well
and taking medications as directed are also key to recovery.
Sometimes there are restrictions on what you can do with your new
joint. Running and singles tennis may be discouraged if you’ve had hip or
knee replacement, for example. But most people return to active lifestyles.
Depending on the type of surgery you have, full recovery may take several
weeks to six months.
To learn if joint replacement surgery is right for you, speak with your doctor.
Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; National Institutes of Health
Cleveland Clinic
orthopaedic surgeon
Mark Verdun, DO, PhD,
sees patients full time
at The Ashtabula Clinic.
Call
440-997-6910
.
Get back in the game
with joint replacement
ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON
Mark Verdun, DO, PhD, is now a member
of Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. He will
continue to see patients at Ashtabula County Medical Center.
Now he brings the resources of Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
right to you. He performs both surgical and nonsurgical treatments of musculoskeletal
disorders, including arthroscopy, joint replacement and fracture care. Dr. Verdun also
specializes in getting you back in the game when you have a sports-related injury.
ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY
Cleveland Clinic
resources right here
in Ashtabula County
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