Healthy + Active | Arthritis

Arthritis Edition

HEALTHY + ACTIVE summit orthopedics

arthritis-friendly recipes

a restoration journey must-have playlists for your workout

wearable technology better rest means

HEALTHIER JOINTS

EXPLORE the world in GOOD HEALTH

I am

STRONG

and active after my knee injury.

My team physicians: Summit Orthopedics

One divot in the road was all it took to turn my world upside down. Fortunately, my team physicians at Summit Orthopedics include highly trained specialists for every joint in the body. They are always available when injury or pain gets in the way of my team—my husband, two young kids, and I. This time around, I was able to walk into Summit’s OrthoQUICK clinic at 7 p.m. on a Saturday night. Forty-five minutes later, I had a diagnosis, treatment plan, and the expert guidance I needed to recover quickly. I am stronger now than ever before, thanks to my coordinated team of experts—physicians, physical therapists, and more at Summit Orthopedics.

Whatever active means to you and your family, we’re here to support it.

Visit summitortho.com to find your team of experts.

Walk-in care available daily at our OrthoQUICKTM clinics —Woodbury, Vadnais Heights, and Eagan—to diagnose and treat bone, joint, and muscle injuries.

CONTENTS

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14 PANTRY

JOINT FITNESS

HOT VERSUS COLD

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10

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HEALTHY WEIGHT

RIGHT WALKING SHOE

BETTER REST

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12

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ARTHRITIS TREATMENT

WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY

A RESTORATION JOURNEY

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NUTRITION + RECIPES

TRAVEL

WORKOUT PLAYLISTS

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48 ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS

60+ THERAPISTS

700+ EMPLOYEES

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LOCATIONS

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EALTHY + ACTIVE is designed and written by the team of specialists at Summit Orthopedics to provide everyday tips, tools, and expert advice to help you in your journey to live a healthier, more active lifestyle. Each edition has a different focus such as spine, sports medicine, or in this case arthritis. We hope you enjoy reading!

ABOUT SUMMIT ORTHOPEDICS

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ummit Orthopedics delivers comprehensive bone, joint, and muscle care to the greater Twin Cities metro area. Our specialists have the highest levels of sub-specialized training in their fields.

Summit’s award-winning facility in Vadnais Heights is home to subspecialty clinics, including our walkin OrthoQUICK clinic, imaging, therapy, surgery, recovery Care Suites, and bracing and orthotics.

It is just one of our 18 metro locations dedicated to helping patients live a healthy and active lifestyle.

MORE ONLINE FEATURES

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se Summit Orthopedics’ website as your trusted resource for current information about health, wellness, and arthritis treatments. Every week, we offer tips to support your healthy and active lifestyle. The QUICKGuides feature provides activity-specific information from Summit’s experts to help prevent injury and keep you and your family healthy. You’ll find informative hip and knee assessments at our website to help you evaluate your joint health and discover specific risk factors you may have. Our assessment is completely free, and takes you through a series of questions, based on internationally accepted research, to evaluate your joints.

Watch videos of our experts answering common arthritis questions at:

http://www.summitortho.com/topic/arthritis/ Visit us at summitortho.com and follow us on Facebook.

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PANTRY: STOCKED TO REDUCE JOINT INFLAMMATION

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HEALTHY WEIGHT AND JOINT HEALTH GO HAND IN HAND

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aintaining a healthy weight is one of the most valuable steps you can take to protect healthy joints, reduce stress on arthritic joints, and relieve the pain related to arthritis. Carrying extra weight strains almost every organ in the body, so it’s no surprise that it takes a toll on arthritic joints, too.

Osteoarthritis is a progressive “wear and tear” joint disease.

Because each pound of body weight puts an additional four pounds of pressure on knees, excess weight increases the risk of damaging wear and tear on the joint. Certain activities increase that pressure even more. Walking, using the stairs, and getting in and out of a chair can put as much as five times our body weight on our joints. Data show that obese women have nearly four times the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis as women who maintain a healthy weight.

best self

Weight is also linked to pain for patients with osteoarthritis. Overweight patients report more musculoskeletal and chronic regional pain than their normal-weight peers. For the elderly, obesity nearly doubles the risk of chronic pain in soft tissues and joints. Extra pounds put an additional burden directly on your hip, knee, and ankle joints, increasing joint wear and tear, exacerbating pain, and making it tougher to find the motivation to remain active.

“Weight loss and exercise are powerful tools to manage the progression of osteoarthritis.”

—Daniel Hoeffel, M.D.

Taking off weight can’t repair joint damage that has already been done, but it can reduce pain and slow the progression of arthritis. Admittedly, losing weight is easier said than done, but for people with osteoarthritis, dropping even a few pounds can pay huge benefits. Losing just 10 pounds can significantly reduce joint pain, decrease risk of developing arthritis in joints that are not already affected, and may postpone or prevent joint replacement surgery. Even in cases where surgery can’t be avoided, maintaining a healthy weight is important to avoid the increased surgical risks that come with excess weight.

Extra weight doesn’t merely increase joint wear and tear—it also increases your risk of injury and possible subsequent acceleration of arthritis symptoms.

People who are overweight are 15 percent more likely to sustain musculoskeletal injury. For people who are obese, the risk of injury rises to 48 percent.

Currently, we have medications to treat the pain associated with arthritis, but there are no medications that can slow this disease’s progression. Weight loss and exercise are the most powerful tools you have to manage the progression of osteoarthritis.

Achieving a healthy weight means eating less and moving more. With a little help from resources like wearable fitness devices, low-impact exercise, and a nutritious diet, you’ll be on your way maintaining a healthy weight that protects your joints and optimizes your quality of life.

CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS Nonsurgical management can provide symptom relief and even modify the course of arthritis. » Physical therapy A physical therapist is your expert partner to get your body ready for activity—they help correct weaknesses and imbalances, and create a custom plan to help you accomplish your goals to be more active. » Activity modification The goal here is not to be less active, but equally active in different ways. Focus on muscle strength, flexibility, and joint mobility. » Medications A variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications can help osteoarthritis. › › › ›

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) treats arthritis pain.

NSAIDs (ibuprofen) treat swelling and pain.

Topical pain relievers help with mild pain.

Corticosteroids help swelling.

» Injections › Corticosteroid: Helps with osteoarthritis flareups, and treats swelling and fluid buildup. › Platelet-rich plasma: Can improve pain and function and is thought to delay the progression of arthritis. › Viscosupplementation: Lubricates joint with a gel-like substance to allow for smoother motion. » Bracing A brace maintains correct alignment and is a treatment option to reduce pain and allow for enhanced activity. It also has been shown to help slow the deterioration of the joint. » Weight management Highlighted in the article to the left.

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“Although nutrition can’t reverse the progression of arthritis, and is not a cureall for painful symptoms, a diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods and avoids foods linked to inflammation can be used with medical treatment to help manage inflammation and reduce swelling.” —Kristoffer Breien, M.D.

USING NUTRITION TO HELP MANAGE OSTEOARTHRITIS

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elicious foods are one of life’s pleasures, and so is the active lifestyle that comes with flexible, healthy joints. We sometimes don’t appreciate the easy pleasures of opening a jar or enjoying an evening walk until osteoarthritis makes it painful for us to engage in these once-simple activities.

Nutrition can’t reverse the progression of arthritis, and is not a cure-all for painful symptoms. A diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods and avoids foods linked to inflammation can be used along with medical treatment to help manage inflammation and reduce swelling. A healthful diet is also instrumental in maintaining a healthy weight—and weight is one of the most important aspects of managing, and sometimes preventing, the wear and tear that leads to osteoarthritis.

A balanced diet has two components: portion size

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and the right balance of plants, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products. The Food and Drug Administration recommends that two-thirds of our diet include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, rounded out by low-fat dairy products and lean proteins. Although this is a good rule of thumb, we know that while dairy is nutritious, it contains a protein that may irritate the tissues around the joints. Noninflammatory substitutes like nut butter, tofu, beans, lentils, and quinoa may be better choices.

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f you have arthritis, you may also want to stock your pantry with foods that have anti-inflammatory properties.

» Fruits like apples, blueberries, cherries, pineapple, raspberries, or strawberries provide fiber and nutrients. They are great to have on hand, especially if you crave a sweeter choice at snack time.

» Olive oil is rich in oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid that helps to control inflammation. Use extra-virgin olive oil instead of vegetable oil when you cook, and toss a little into your salads to benefit your joints.

» Garlic is a staple that can help relieve swollen joints while it is flavoring your dishes.

» Fish is high in the omega-3 fatty acid known to help control inflammation. It gives us the protein we need, and unlike red meat, it won’t trigger inflammation. Good choices include salmon, snapper, tuna, cod, halibut, and bass. » Crunchy nuts are satisfying and an excellent source of healthful fats. Keep walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts on hand, and reach for them when you feel hungry between meals.

» Herbs offer antioxidants that are most beneficial when you use them while they are fresh. Gardeners might consider planting an herb garden featuring mint, basil, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. » Chocolate may be one of the most indulgent desserts ever, and it is also good for your joints. Check the percentage of cacao on the label or wrapper, and choose options that are at least 70 percent cacao.

Remember, foods that reduce joint pain affect each person differently. Pay attention to your own body’s response to foods, and adjust your diet accordingly. While you are sampling joint-friendly foods, consider avoiding foods known to cause inflammation. These include saturated and trans fats, dairy products, salt, and sugar. Keep alcohol consumption moderate: two drinks per day for men, and one drink per day for women. Smart diet choices can help you manage arthritis and deliver healthful nutrition.

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ARTHRITIS-FRIENDLY RECIPES

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mart eating does not have to mean sacrificing flavorful dishes with vibrant visual appeal. Summit asked Cooks of Crocus Hill’s Chef Jeremy Reinicke to create two entrees packed with fresh, nutritious ingredients and irresistible flavor profiles. Taking the time to prepare these delicious recipes will make healthful eating feel like an indulgent pleasure, and will serve up beneficial nutrients tailored to the needs of people with arthritis.

QUINOA AND KALE STEW WITH CANNELLINI BEANS

Serves 8–10 | Total time: 1 hour

Preheat a medium Dutch oven or large pan. » 1 TBSP. EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE OIL » 2 CUPS LEEKS, TRIMMED & THINLY SLICED » 1 tsp. SALT, KOSHER

Add Extra-virgin olive oil, Leeks, and Salt to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes or until Leeks are beginning to become tender.

» 4 CLOVES GARLIC, THINLY SLICED » 1 tsp. FENNEL, FRESH » 1 tsp. MARJORAM, DRY » 1 tsp. THYME, DRY » 1/2 tsp. ROSEMARY » 1 CARROT, PEELED, QUARTERED, & THINLY SLICED » 2 PARSNIPS, PEELED, QUARTERED, & THINLY SLICED

Add Garlic, Herbs, Carrot, and Parsnip and sauté for another 5 minutes.

» » » » »

2 LIMES, ZESTED & JUICED 8 CUPS VEGETABLE STOCK 1.5 LBS. YUKON GOLD POTATOES, SMALL DICE 1 CUP DRY QUINOA 1 BUNCH KALE, STEMS REMOVED & CUT INTO BITE-SIZE PIECES

» 15 OZ. CANNELLINI BEANS, CANNED & DRAINED » SALT (KOSHER) TO TASTE

Add Lime Juice and Zest, Stock, Potatoes, Quinoa, and Kale. Cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until Potatoes and Quinoa are tender.

Add Beans and stir to incorporate.

Hint: Serve with Lime Wedge garnish and/or a dash of your favorite Hot Sauce to spice it up!

Get step-by-step instructions from Chef Jeremy at:

summitortho.com/recipes

savor CORIANDER-CRUSTED HALIBUT WITH SWEET CORN, AVOCADO, AND BABY ARUGULA

Serves 5–6 | Total time: 1 hour

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. » » » »

2 LBS. HALIBUT (OR OTHER WHITE FISH) 2 TBSP. EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE OIL 1 TBSP. CORIANDER, GROUND SALT TO TASTE

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1 LIME, ZESTED ½ LIME, JUICED 1 CLOVE GARLIC, MINCED 1 SHALLOT, MINCED 1 SERRANO CHILE, SEEDS REMOVED, MINCED 2 EARS SWEET CORN, POACHED IN SALTED WATER FOR 3 MINUTES, THEN SHUCKED OFF THE COBB 2 TOMATOES, DICED 2 AVOCADOS, DICED ¼ CUP CILANTRO, CHOPPED 1 tsp. CUMIN, GROUND SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE

» » » » » »

5 OZ. BABY ARUGULA EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE OIL TO TASTE WINE VINEGAR TO TASTE HONEY TO TASTE SALT TO TASTE 4 TBSP. PINE NUTS, RAW OR TOASTED

Dust halibut with Coriander and Salt. Set aside in refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes.

In a nonreactive bowl (stainless steel, glass, or enamel will work) toss Lime Juice and Zest with Garlic, Shallot, and Serrano. Set aside for 15 minutes. Gently fold in the Sweet Corn, Tomato, Avocado, Cilantro, and Cumin. Season to taste with Salt and Pepper.

Heat the Extra-virgin olive oil in a nonstick sauté pan over a medium heat source until the oil shimmers.

Gently place Halibut in the pan and cook until a crust has formed (5 minutes). Flip the fish and place the pan in the oven until fish is done. An internal temperature of 145 degrees should be reached. The flesh will be white and flaky.

In another nonreactive bowl, lightly sprinkle the Baby Arugula with Extra-virgin olive oil, Wine Vinegar, and Honey. Sprinkle lightly with Salt and gently toss to coat all of the Arugula. Plate and sprinkle with Pine Nuts.

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APPROACHES TO JOINT FITNESS

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ver time, osteoarthritis can limit mobility and affect the quality of day-to-day life.

Walking is an effective way to mitigate the effects of arthritis. New research tells us exactly how many daily steps you need to take to reduce your risks.

A recent study evaluated the walking habits of almost 1,800 people with knee osteoarthritis, but who had yet to experience any functional limitation. After two years, researchers found that the more people walked, the less likely they were to lose joint mobility.

The “magic number” of daily steps required

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for functionality was 6,000. People who took more steps experienced even greater benefits.

If you want to walk to healthier knees, increase your number of daily steps slowly to avoid injury. At first, try 3,000 steps per day. Gradually work up to 6,000 steps. You can add even more steps if it’s comfortable.

feel good “Counting steps helps you stick to your goal over time, and protects the lifestyle you love. All you have to do is walk.”

— DAREN WICKUM, M.D.

Swimming is a low-impact exercise and an effective way to condition your joints. Even people with painful arthritic joints can take up swimming. Your relative weightlessness in water helps speed joint healing by reducing pressure on swollen joints.

When you are immersed waist-deep in water, you remove approximately 50 percent of the weight

borne by lower joints. Submerge to your shoulders, and your joints bear only 25 percent of their usual stress—this is why water exercise can restore joints to optimal function faster and with less pain.

Aquatic therapy encourages constant movement, with short breaks as needed. Buoyancy enables you to do more exercise in the water than you can on land. Swimming builds strength, keeps heart rate up, and promotes joint function.

If you like the idea of swimming, talk with your doctor about developing an exercise program that’s right for you. You may find yourself enjoying the pool— and healthier joints—as part of your active lifestyle.

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KEEP MOVING WITH THE RIGHT WALKING SHOE

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walking routine is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle with arthritis.

We want you to look great out on your walking route, but when it comes to selecting your shoes, fit is far more important than fashion.

Today’s athletic shoes are designed for specific sports; a walking shoe has features that are different from those you’ll find in a running or cross-training shoe. When you choose shoes with the right features and fit, you reduce the chance of blisters, calluses, and other injuries that could derail your walking program. Several features characterize a good walking shoe. An ankle collar with an Achilles notch above the heel cushions your ankle and reduces stress on your Achilles tendon as you walk. A roomy, round toe box prevents blisters and calluses.

Look for grooves and treads on the sole of ANKLE COLLAR the shoe that will provide good traction. If you want extra cushion, choose a shoe with gel pads to reduce the impact when your foot lands. Some people have feet that tend to roll inward as they walk; a walking shoe with a roll bar will help stabilize your foot.

Shop for walking shoes after you’ve been on your feet for a while, and try them on with the socks you plan to wear for the best fit.

“The

right walking shoe will feel comfortable as soon as you slip into it, conforming to your foot shape and supporting your arch.”

— PETER DALY, M.D.

If you want professional assistance, take your old walking shoes with you to an athletic store; fitters can use the wear patterns to understand the shape of your foot and where you need support.

Just remember, individual comfort is the best indicator that you’ve found walking shoes that will safely support your journey to continued good health.

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ROUND TOE BOX

GROOVES + TREADS

“Researchers found that when people with knee osteoarthritis walked regularly, they were less likely to lose joint functionality.”

—James Gannon, M.D.

WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY CAN ENCOURAGE HEALTHY HABITS

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taying on top of exercise goals can be a challenge, but today, fashion and technology have joined forces to offer exciting new tools to support the exercise goals that help us maintain joint health.

You can find an array of sleek fashionable fitness devices to count your steps—and your calories, monitor your heart rate, tell you how many flights of stairs you’ve climbed, and compete with your friends to improve your activity level. Some will even give you a tingly buzz when you take your 10,000th step of the day. If you are intrigued about the idea of wearing a virtual fitness coach on your wrist to report your progress, a wearable device might be your secret weapon for a healthier lifestyle.

Walking is a very effective way to mitigate the functional loss associated with arthritic joints. Daily walking improves blood flow in the joint, helps to bring nutrients to joint cartilage, reduces pain, increases joint flexibility, and strengthens the muscles around the joint for better support. Psychologically, walking regularly helps to build confidence that we can attain our exercise goals.

Researchers found that when people with knee osteoarthritis walked regularly, they were less likely to lose joint functionality. The “magic number” of daily steps required to protect joint function is lower than you might expect: just 6,000 steps protects joints. When you take more steps, you get more joint benefits.

If you are inspired to protect your joints, using a pedometer or activity monitor can be a wonderful motivator. You don’t have to push yourself to walk 6,000 steps on the first day you wear your device.

Start with a more modest goal, and gradually work up to 6,000 steps, and more if it feels comfortable.

Wearable devices can make it easier to stick to an exercise routine over time, and will protect the lifestyle you love. All you have to do is walk.

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adventure EXPLORE THE WORLD IN GOOD HEALTH

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hether you are feeling wanderlust or have a dream destination in mind, it is exciting to make travel plans. Arthritis shouldn’t keep you from taking the trip of your dreams. The effects of arthritis vary from person to person, but generally include pain and movement restrictions. With some advance planning, there’s no reason why you can’t be comfortable at your destination.

» Review your medication schedule before you leave.

» Review your insurance.

Plan to get any injections you need at home before or after your trip. Take copies of your prescriptions with you in case medications are lost or misplaced. If it is physically difficult for you to remove your shoes during security screening, ask for a doctor’ts note that you can share with security checkpoint officers.

Some policies don’t cover medical care overseas, and you may need supplemental insurance even for cross-country travel. Cancellation insurance is a good idea in case a health problem forces you to cancel your trip.

» Discuss recommended vaccinations with your doctor.

Arthritis can make it challenging to get from the airport entrance to an assigned seat on a flight. Take a minimalist approach to packing to avoid managing heavy luggage. If walking is difficult for you, talk with your carrier about airport transportation when you book your flight. Airlines are legally required to provide wheel-

Some countries require vaccinations, but certain vaccines can cause issues when used with arthritis medications. It’s important to talk with your doctor before you schedule your shots.

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» Use airport services.

“Arthritis shouldn’t keep you from taking the trip of your dreams.”

—Paul Yellin, M.D.

chairs or electric carts to passengers who request assistance. Riding from the curb to your gate will make your trip more comfortable and less stressful.

» Choose your hotel with care.

If mobility is a challenge, you’ll be more comfortable in a location where there aren’t a lot of steps or steep hills to climb. If you need a wheelchair, ask about your hotel’s wheelchair accessibility. Confirm that amenities like pools, courtyards, or other outdoor facilities are close by and easy to access. If excursions are on the agenda, make sure touring vehicles have any lifts or ramps you will need.

» Room amenities matter.

If you use prescription drugs that require refrigeration, you’ll want a refrigerator in your room.

» Pack sunscreen.

Some arthritis medications make you more susceptible to sunburn. If you are traveling to sunny climes, sunscreen is essential. Take light, loose clothing that shields your arms and legs, and toss a wide-brimmed hat into your suitcase.

» Take supportive equipment.

From familiar walking shoes to a cane or brace, pack the assistive devices you find helpful—even if you think you may not need them. You can also buy travel items like attachable bathroom grab bars for your hotel.

With a bit of planning and an easy-does-it approach, you don’t have to let arthritis prevent you from enjoying the adventures of travel.

HOT VERSUS COLD

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f you have arthritis, there are going to be times when your joints feel stiff and achy. Although there is not a cure for arthritis, there is a simple, inexpensive, and effective way for you to manage painful symptoms using heat and cold. The trick is to know when to reach for a heating pad and when to use a towel-wrapped bag of ice or frozen peas.

Use heat to treat chronic stiffness typically felt first thing in the morning or after a long period of inactivity. Heat helps stiff joints by encouraging blood vessels near the surface of the skin to expand. This increases blood flow and relaxes your muscles. A heating pad or a hot shower or bath will stimulate blood flow to your joints and help to make them feel more limber; it also helps prepare arthritic joints for exercise.

Always remove the heat source if it starts to feel uncomfortably hot.

Use cold to treat the acute pain caused by inflammation and swelling following activity. Acute pain is caused by soft tissue injury; broken capillaries leak blood and serum into adjacent tissues, causing localized swelling and inflammation. Cold helps by causing blood vessels to constrict, preventing further swelling and relieving pain by numbing the joint. Use ice, a bag of frozen peas, or a gel-filled cold pack wrapped in a towel to protect your skin. Apply cold for 10 to 20 minutes. Remove for 20 to 40 minutes to avoid freezing skin and underlying tissues, and then repeat if necessary.

“When your joints don’t feel painful, it’s much easier to enjoy the activities you love.”

— JONATHAN BIEBL, M.D.

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BETTER REST MEANS HEALTHIER JOINTS

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veryone needs rest, relaxation, and the comfort of a refreshing night’s sleep. People with hip and knee osteoarthritis experience insomnia more often than their peers with healthy joints.

Studies suggest that poor sleep may be the trigger to, rather than the consequence of, joint pain.

Lack of sleep may trigger inflammatory pathways that exacerbate osteoarthritic pain. Insomnia can also make us more sensitive to feelings of pain.

Osteoarthritis sufferers may indulge habits not conducive to sleep, like an irregular sleep schedule, napping, or eating heavily and watching TV before bed. By changing behaviors that cause poor sleep, you may rest more soundly and reduce joint pain.

Avoid heavy meals and caffeinated or alcoholic beverages in the hours right before bed. Keep the television out of your bedroom, and create a sleeping environment that is comfortably cool, quiet, and dark. With a few adjustments, you may find yourself enjoying more restful nights and relief from the discomfort of arthritic joints.

For some people, changes in routine may not be enough to improve sleep or alleviate joint pain. If you continue to be bothered by joint pain, consult your doctor for additional treatment options to help relieve osteoarthritic pain.

“Studies suggest that poor sleep may be the trigger to, rather than the consequence of, joint pain.”

—David Kittleson, M.D.

A RESTORATION JOURNEY

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olleen Wandmacher was far from home when an accident sharply increased the pain in her already sore knee. She related: “I had arthritis in my right knee. As time went on, it bothered me more but I thought I could live with the pain.” However, during a visit to Israel, she disembarked from a bus, and the impact of a deep step tore the remaining cartilage in her knee. She managed the rest of her trip with a pronounced limp.

After about a year of limping, she made an appointment with Dr. Drogt, the surgeon who fixed her father’s broken hip. “I asked a lot of questions, and Dr. Drogt took the time to address them all,” she remembered. “He reviewed my options with me and told me what I needed to make a decision.”

Jamie met with the Vadnais Heights patient navigator, Kristin, who reviewed the postsurgery medications Colleen would take and introduced Colleen to her physical therapist.

Summit’s Vadnais Heights program reviews every aspect of the surgical process with patients and supplies them with a written summary of what to expect. Impressed with the quality of the facility and the kindness, honesty, and information she received from Dr. Drogt, Colleen decided to have her total knee replacement at the new Summit Surgery Center in Vadnais Heights.

Colleen was able to do a test run on Summit’s unique Secure Tracks rehabilitation system. Secure Tracks is designed to keep patients stable and safe as they take their first steps after surgery. Summit is the only practice offering Secure Tracks in the Upper Midwest, making it safe for patients to begin reclaiming function hours after surgery. Colleen was amazed when Secure Tracks enabled her to walk within hours after her surgery.

Summit encourages patients to select a family member or friend to accompany them through the surgical process. A week before surgery, Colleen and her daughter

Secure Tracks built her confidence about being able to walk normally again, but staying at Summit’s Care Suites was a sheer pleasure. The luxurious private

Check out our room tour videos at:

summitortho.com/services/surgery/care-suites suites are located steps from surgery and designed for patient comfort. She recounts: “It was like being in a hotel room. I loved my cozy bed and supersoft sheets. Dinner and breakfast were brought in from local restaurants.

Another very positive aspect of being in the surgery center rather than a hospital is that there is much less of a chance of getting an infection. I can’t say enough about how great the facility is.”

Summit’s Vadnais Heights site is designed to create a comprehensive program of surgical care under a single roof. For Colleen, the fact that every aspect of her care—from presurgical consultations with her care team and imaging through postsurgical Care Suites recovery and rehabilitative therapy—was offered at one location and was both convenient and empowering.

When she was released from the Care Suites, Colleen was eager to return to her activities. “The arthritic pain of bone rubbing on bone was gone from the moment I got out of surgery,” she recalls. “I had surgery pain, but not arthritic pain. After about six weeks, I was able to walk almost normally, and my knee felt really, really good. I was told that my success was in part dependent on my therapy, so I went to my therapy appointments and religiously did my therapy at home. It paid off.”

Colleen has resumed the walks she loves, and is sharing the Summit experience that helped her reclaim an active lifestyle. “I’ve already, without hesitation, recommended Summit to a friend,” Colleen smiles.

BY THE NUMBERS Here’s a snapshot of patients’ results with the new joint restoration experience:

1 0.2 3 375

AVERAGE PAIN SCORES AT 1 OR LOWER IMMEDIATELY AFTER SURGERY AND FIRST 24 HRS. SCALE 0–10 WITH 0 = NO PAIN

PERCENT INFECTION RATE, WHICH IS 12 TIMES LOWER THAN NATIONAL AVERAGE (2.5%)

HOURS AFTER SURGERY WHEN PATIENTS START WALKING

AVERAGE DISTANCE IN FEET WALKED BY END OF FIRST DAY, WITH LITTLE TO NO PAIN

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MUST-HAVE PLAYLISTS FOR YOUR WORKOUT BRING IT BACK » I Want You Back – Jackson 5 » Since You’ve Been Gone – Rainbow » Shake Your Groove Thing – Peaches & Herb » Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Stevie Wonder » I Know I’m Losing You – Temptations » Hold On, I’m Comin’ – Sam & Dave » Twist and Shout – Beatles » Baby Workout – Jackie Wilson » Twistin’ the Night Away – Sam Cooke » Devil with a Blue Dress – Mitch Ryder » Cool Jerk – The Capitols » Let’s Groove – Earth, Wind & Fire » September – Earth, Wind & Fire » Hey, Soul Sister – Train

FEELING POWERFUL » Man! I Feel Like a Woman – Shania Twain » Set Fire to the Rain – Adele » Another One Bites the Dust – Queen » It’s Raining Men – The Weather Girls » Fighter – Christina Aguilera » Respect – Aretha Franklin » These Boots Are Made for Walking – Nancy Sinatra

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» You’re So Vain – Carly Simon » Lady Marmalade – Labelle » I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor

“Do something today your future self will thank you for.”

—Unknown

Has joint pain turned you into a spectator?

Don’t let joint discomfort interfere with the activities you love.

From non-surgical treatments to joint replacements, let us help relieve your pain and guide you back to fully participating in life.

Learn more at summitortho.com