The Ohio orthopaedic surgeons at OAZ can offer help for elderly patients suffering from knee arthritis and impaired balance.

A study presented at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons shows total knee replacement can successfully relieve pain and improve function in patients with advanced knee arthritis.

The study measured accurately static and dynamic balance with a new computerized system called the Balance Master. The study found:

• Significant improvement in dynamic balance one year after surgery
• Significant progress in balance-determined motor tests
• Strong statistical correlation between the balance and the Oxford Knee Score functional questionnaire and the quality of life questionnaire SF-36

One year after surgery, the correlation between patients’ improved balance and their ability to walk and perform daily activities was stronger than the correlation between their reduced pain and their ability to walk and do daily activities.

Elderly individuals considering knee replacement should talk to their Ohio orthopaedic surgeons at OAZ about the rehabilitation process and ways to improve balance following surgery.

The cutting-edge technology used by the orthopaedic surgeons at Ohio’s OAZ was featured by the Zanesville Times-Recorder in January!

Be sure to check out Dr. Karl Saunders and his staff discuss the modern diagnostic equipment including digital X-ray.

Becky Tilton, registered radiologic technologist at Orthopaedic Associates is quoted: “We are very fortunate that we have this updated technology. Patients feel that it is a faster procedure and doesn’t take as long. I love it because you can see much more on the digital radiology versus film.”

The team of orthopaedic surgeons at Ohio’s OAZ office agree this technology improves the patient experience.

Dr. Karl Saunders will be speaking at Ohio University in Zanesville, Ohio on Friday evening, October 23 for the Genesis Spirit of Women “Girls Night Out.”   He will be speaking about successful life strategies dealing with bone and joint health for women.

Dr. Karl Saunders presented at Genesis HealthCare System’s Spirit of Women event on July 23, 2009. The program, titled “Life’s Not a Spectator Sport,” focused on maintaining active lifestyles. The event welcomed more than 100 guests.

Dr. Saunders spoke about women’s health as it relates to bones, exercise, proper nutrition, calcium, proper diet and weight control. He also gave tips for appropriate footwear.

For more information on Genesis HealthCare System and Spirit of Women, visit Genesishcs.org.