Healthy Living
Autumn 2026
Inside this issue 3 - Silver Cross awarded 5-star rating 4 - Lung cancer screening and care - Silver Cross 6 - Stroke recovery therapy - Silver Cross 9 - Colonoscopy screenings - Morris Hospital 10 - Orthopedics and sports medicine - Morris Hospital 11 - Knee replacement - Morris Hospital
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More Providers. More Locations.
More ways to care for you. Exceptional care, expanding all around you. At Silver Cross, we believe great care should be easy to reach. That’s why we’re growing —adding more trusted providers, more locations, and more ways to keep you and your family healthy.
From primary care and advanced specialties, to urgent care, comprehensive imaging and lab, you’ll find Silver Cross Health Centers in nearly two dozen locations in 9 communities. Because here, better care isn’t just close — it’s closer than ever.
Locations New Lenox Orland Park Homer Glen Lemont Lockport
Manhattan Mokena Crest Hill Joliet
Learn more at SilverCrossMedicalGroup.org 2 | Healthy Living | August 2026 SM-CL2337779
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Silver Cross Hospital Awarded 5-Star Rating by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
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ilver Cross Hospital in New Lenox has been awarded a 5-Star rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), as announced on May 13, 2026, on Medicare.gov/care-compare.
The hospital rating system, publicly launched in 2016 by CMS, assigns hospitals one to five stars. The overall summary rating is based on a cumulative score of dozens of measures across five different areas, including mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience, and timely and effective care.
A CMS 5-Star rating is the highest possible score that CMS assigns to hospitals, placing Silver Cross among the top 12% of Silver Cross performed well above the national average in each ALL eligible hospitals in the United States. The national average of the categories, including safety of patient care, mortality and is three out of five stars. patient experience. Silver Cross is the only hospital in Will and Grundy counties to earn the highest honor.
The 2026 CMS 5-Star Rating is in addition to Silver Cross Hospital’s other national awards, accreditations and recognitions including 22 Straight A’s for Safety by the Leapfrog “At Silver Cross, our patients are at the center of everything we Group; a 2025 Leapfrog Top Hospital Award; 9 times as a do,” said Michael Mutterer, Silver Cross Hospital President and Newsweek World’s Best Hospital; Chief Executive Officer. “A CMS 5-Star rating affirms that we 11 times as one of the nation’s 100 provide exceptional patient care and achieve superior outcomes. Top Hospitals; #1 in Surgical Care This recognition belongs to every one of our employees, Medical Excellence in Illinois, two years Staff members and volunteers who, TOGETHER, always put the running by Healthgrades; and a U.S. care, safety and experience of our patients first.” News & World Report Best Regional Hospital. The ratings, published by CMS, are designed to help consumers compare hospitals by evaluating safety, quality and patient For more information, experiences at nearly 4,000 hospitals nationwide. visit silvercross.org August 2026 | Healthy Living | 3
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Early Lung Cancer Screening and Care at Silver Cross Means More Years with Grandchildren for Lockport Man Low-dose lung cancer screening helped save 53-year cigarette smoker’s life
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rian Villanova admits to smoking up to a pack and a half of cigarettes a day for about 53 of his 66 years. That continued even after a heart attack when he was 52 and a prostatectomy about six years ago. Though Villanova, a retired truck driver from Lockport, questions his decision to smoke, he was wise enough to listen to his primary care physician Dr. Daniel Co, on the medical staff of Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox a few years ago, who noted that his lifelong smoking habit and sedentary lifestyle put him at risk for lung cancer. Follow-ups during the next several years ultimately led to Villanova having a small portion of his lung removed in December at Silver Cross. “The silver dollar-sized piece of lung they took out turned out to show Stage 1 large cell carcinoma,” Villanova said. “And thankfully, it had not spread.” Villanova said he didn’t think anything of it when a chest X-ray taken after he and his wife, Alyce, were in an accident showed a small spot on his lung. “It was really small. And with the same machine, my wife had a spot in the same location. So, we just let it go. Until I had my recent cancer scare. She had an X-ray done, and she’s fine.”
Following successful lung cancer surgery at Silver Cross Hospital, Brian Villanova of Lockport looks forward to a trip to Croatia with his wife, Alyce.
that on Dec. 15. And she could do it laparoscopically, so there was no need to open his chest. “Mr. Villanova’s success story is why we push early lung cancer CT screenings,” Dr. Alex said. “When we can catch it early, there is so much more chance of success. Lung cancer spreads so quickly. Mr. Villanova is a trooper. He should be able to go back to a normal life.” Villanova said he spent only two and a half days in the hospital and didn’t require any therapy or follow-up treatment. “The nurses were great. They had me up and walking right away. They said, ‘If you want to get out of here, get walking.’ The day of surgery was tough, but it got easier each day.” While he didn’t notice any breathing problems before the surgery, Villanova said he feels really good now, going to the gym three times a week, just to get out of the house. If he had still been working, he said he could have gone back about eight weeks after surgery. A planned vacation to Croatia will wait until next year, he said, “But believe me, we will find ways to treat ourselves. Dr. Alex, her assistant and the nurses at Silver Cross were amazing. They’re very happy with how I’m doing. I went back in June for a follow-up scan, but I haven’t had any ill effects.”
Villanova said he appreciated his doctors on staff of Silver Cross staying the course with follow-ups after learning a spot found in He also quit smoking once and for all. “I finally realized being 2023 on his lung had grown about 15 percent in a year. able to spend as much time with my grandchildren means more to me than smoking,” he added. “Initially, the doctor said we could keep an eye on it because “One of my grandsons has been it was so small. A year later, it was still pretty small, but the asking me for nine years doctors didn’t like how much it had grown. why I smoke. I didn’t have a reason. Now, I have a reason.” “So, we scheduled a biopsy. The problem was, they couldn’t reach the spot because of where it was so high in the lung. They got as close as they could, and the results were clear.
To learn more about lung care at the Midwest Institute for Lung at Silver Cross Hospital, visit silvercross.org. Or to schedule “But it still didn’t sit right with them, or me, either. So, like I did an early lung CT scan, visit when I had my prostate removed, I told them, ‘Just go in and silvercross.org/lung. get it out of there.’” Silver Cross Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Gillian Alex did just 4 | Healthy Living | August 2026
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Seniors can look to various foods to eat a more nutritious diet
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he right foods and beverages fuel the body and provide the nutrients necessary to maintain health. But it’s worth noting that the foods a person enjoys during much of their life may not be ideal for them as they age. Dietary needs change as a person gets older. MedlinePlus says the best foods for older adults prioritize nutrient-dense, easy-to-chew foods that are gentle on digestion. These foods also should incorporate a balance of lean proteins to help maintain muscle mass, fiber that promotes regular digestion, and healthy fats to support the brain and heart. Here are some foods seniors can incorporate into their daily diets that may provide that extra spring in their step, courtesy of the National Council on Aging and Healthline. •
Dark, leafy greens: Foods like kale and spinach are rich in carotonoids, which may protect the eyes against oxidative damage. Spinach is particularly high in vitamins A and C, which help moderate blood pressure to protect the heart. Vitamin K is another important nutrient in leafy greens that plays a role in osteoporosis prevention.
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Lean protein: Seniors need adequate protein to slow down or prevent the natural loss of muscle that occurs as one ages. A person can use the U.S. Department of Agriculture calculator to figure out how much protein to eat based on their age and other factors. Good sources of protein include lean meat and poultry, seafood, eggs, lentils, beans, nuts, and seeds.
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Cruciferous vegetables: These vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and turnips are great sources of fiber, vitamins, and cancer-preventing phytochemicals.
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Whole grains: Whole grains provide lasting energy the body needs throughout the day. Quinoa, brown rice and oatmeal are some examples of whole grains.
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Healthy fats: Some seniors may have grown up thinking that fats are something to avoid. However, healthy unsaturated fats are important for heart and brain health. They also are excellent for adding calorie density for those with smaller appetites. Olive oil, nuts and peanut butter are good choices for healthy fats. • Seeds: A 2022 study found that the nutrients in chia seeds can help prevent cancer, GI tract-related diseases, and cardiovascular disease. Chia seeds also may help people manage their type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Seeds, including flax and hemp, also are high in inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids. • Fruits: Seniors should enjoy around 1.5 to 2 cups of fruits each day. Fruits are an important source of potassium, fiber, vitamin C, folate, and vitamin A. Avocado is loaded with nourishing fats, antioxidants and other nutrients that support health.
Dietary choices are important as people get older, and seniors should aspire to maximize the nutrients they consume.
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Area Woman Back on Her Feet Following Stroke Recovery T
With the help of her husband, Kevin, and son, Keegan, stroke survivor Katie Moran is a true testament to working hard to get back to her most independent self
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ack in early March, Katie Moran was just finishing a Zoom job interview with the CEO of a company she hoped to work for when she felt a strange sensation. “It was like a hot wire going through my brain,” said Moran, 45, of Tinley Park. “Then it felt like hot metal shards were running through the left side of my body.” Moran called to her husband, Kevin, as she began to collapse. He called 911, and she was hospitalized with a stroke. “I’m 45, this isn’t supposed to happen,” said Moran, who had been attributing her high blood pressure to “white coat syndrome,” when she was in unfamiliar medical settings. That’s why Moran felt the need to share her story and give credit to those who helped get her back on her feet…literally. After she was released from the hospital, Moran was referred for inpatient therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox. What happened in her three weeks there was nothing short of a miracle, she said, mixed with determination and hard work. “I went there needing a wheelchair and walked out on my own.”
Teamwork…and Determination Much teamwork was involved with helping Moran, said Dr. Megan Parkes, Medical Director of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross. “When Katie came to us, she needed quite a bit of assistance,” Dr. Parkes said. “As part of her inpatient rehab program, she participated in 15 hours of therapy per week. Her treatment team consisted of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, 24-hour rehab nursing, social work and a rehab doctor. “Katie was extremely motivated from day one. She was up for any challenge the therapists threw at her. Her attitude was such a great asset in her recovery. While her body didn’t always cooperate the way she wanted it to, she didn’t let that discourage her. She pushed through the bad days and was a source of inspiration to others.” Moran knew she would be in good hands. Her mother sang the praises of the AbilityLab therapists after she suffered a stroke and is now doing well. A former asset management vice president working with sensitive data files, Moran said she was used to being in
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ry Therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross charge during high-stress situations, “doing the stuff no one else wanted to do. “The therapists at the AbilityLab were amazing. They knew how far to push me, with Physical Therapist Jada Cox saying, ‘You are capable of doing hard things.’ That really motivated me, because I knew it was true.” Cox and Occupational Therapist Lindsay Heidrich said Moran’s motivation and dedication played a huge role in her recovery. They used techniques such as dual tasking, and task-specific training to help “retrain” Moran’s brain to maximize learning and adapting to new changes to improve various everyday functions. Exercises included transferring items out of their pantry while in the harness, directional walking while tapping and reaching for varying objects, and performing varying movement patterns aimed at improving her overall balance and stability, and regaining functional use of her extremities. Moran said the 45-minute sessions took a lot out of her, but she soon began feeling her body working again, and she was building strength. Moran also was scheduled for speech therapy when they noticed she seemed to slur words sometimes. Speech Therapist Maeve
Houlihan said returning to a normal life and work – including effective communication – was important to Moran. The therapists worked together to incorporate exercises combining tasks that would improve all facets of her health. “Katie even requested more cognitive activities she could do outside of therapy sessions. Katie is a true testament to working hard to get back to her most independent self.” With continued inpatient therapy, Moran was walking on a treadmill. She had to move her left arm with her right when she first arrived at Silver Cross. Now, she continues to work on fine motor skills on an outpatient basis and at home, with the help of her husband and son, Keegan. Moran also wants people to know they should pay attention to their body and their mental health. “I had a very high-stress job. You have to love yourself enough to care. Little successes add up to big ones. You have to push through the hard times. The people at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross were wonderful helping me do that. They helped me get my life back. And I’m really proud of myself, too.” To learn more about rehabilitation services at Silver Cross, visit silvercross.org or call (815) 300-7110
Silver Cross Stroke Program Earns Gold Plus Recognition from AHA
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very second matters when it comes to a stroke. But patients need more than speed; they need expertise, the most advanced treatment options – and a highly skilled team ready to act. The Midwest Institute for Neurosciences at Silver Cross Hospital offers a full continuum of exceptional stroke care, beginning with the activation of its stroke protocol at the first signs of a stroke or stroke-like symptoms, immediately alerting stroke experts to initiate rapid assessment and treatment. Additional highlights include the latest clot-busting therapies, remote monitoring through state-of-the-art tele-stroke technology, advanced interventional procedures, superior inpatient care, world-class rehabilitation through a partnership with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and a monthly Stroke Support Group that helps survivors and their
families connect. From start to finish, Silver Cross Hospital’s stroke program is earning national recognition. In fact, the hospital recently earned the prestigious 2026 Get With The Guidelines®–Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award, which recognizes hospitals that consistently deliver high-quality, evidence-based stroke care, leading to improved outcomes, reduced disability and more lives saved. “We are proud to recognize Silver Cross Hospital for its commitment to caring for people experiencing stroke,” said Steven Messe, M.D., volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, including greater likelihood of being discharged home, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a meaningful benefit for health care systems, families and communities.” August 2026 | Healthy Living | 7
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How to maintain balance
ostering good balance is crucial for maintaining independence, staying active and preventing falls. According to West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation, falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. By building better balance, seniors can ensure that a minor trip or stumble will not turn into a serious fall. Balance training involves building strength in the lower back, core and legs. Should a fall occur, having stronger muscles and more nimble reflexes can help protect bones and joints. The following exercises courtesy of the Mayo Clinic are some activities that can improve balance and reduce falls. • Single-leg stance: While standing near a counter, lift one foot two to three inches off the ground and hold for 10 to 30 seconds. Then switch legs and repeat. This can be done while brushing teeth to build it into a daily routine. • Sobriety test: Much like a police officer will conduct a sobriety test on a suspected offender, place your right heel
directly in front of your left toe so they touch. Walk forward for 10 to 20 steps, focusing on a fixed point ahead. • Shift weight: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and slowly shift all weight to one foot, lifting the heel of the opposite foot. Hold this for 10 seconds and then switch sides. • Tree pose: Many yoga poses strengthen balance. Poses like the “tree pose” can train the center of gravity and improve flexibility. • Water exercises and swimming: Swimming and pool exercises are great ways to build core and leg strength without straining the joints. • Pilates and tai chi: These structured activities are good for building strength and improving flexibility, which can facilitate balance. • Older adults can engage in balance-building activities each day to promote greater health and reduce the risk of injury.
What are the warning signs of social isolation? H
uman beings are wired for social connection, but millions of people confront isolation every day. Many of those people are seniors who lose contact with loved ones as time goes by. While temporary loneliness can be tolerated, prolonged isolation can be very harmful. Research by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine found roughly one-quarter of American adults age 65 and older live in isolation. Identifying the early warning signs of isolation may help to prevent the physiological and psychological toll isolation can take. Here are some signs of social isolation to watch for. • Withdrawal from events: An early indicator of social isolation, according to Healthline, is a pattern of canceling plans, not answering phone calls, and withdrawing from established social circles or hobbies.
• Self-care is not prioritized: Another sign of social isolation is personal hygiene and other self-care habits like eating nutritious meals becomes neglected. It can signal that a person’s routine has changed due to a lack of social accountability. • Home upkeep falters: A person who is withdrawing from social connections may feel it’s no longer necessary to keep a home clean and tidy since they don’t anticipate visitors. • Irritability and low mood: Persistent isolation can trigger a sense of hopelessness. Individuals may become defensive or experience dramatic shifts in mood and sleep patterns, according to Healthline. • Reliance on social media or television: Socially isolated individuals may turn to television or non-interactive social media scrolling as a proxy for human interaction, offers HealthDirect. • Social isolation can take its toll on anyone, particularly seniors. Individuals are urged to check in with friends, family or neighbors they suspect may be isolating to provide the companionship and help they may need.
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Colonoscopy Screenings: A Simple Step That Can Save Your Life
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reventive screenings are key to long-term health. Stephanie Mickley, an advanced practice registered nurse who works with Dr. Afreen Hyder from Morris Hospital Gastroenterology, says colonoscopies are vital for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer early. That’s because colonoscopies can identify colon polyps, which can turn into cancer if untreated. During a colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist uses a small camera to examine the colon for polyps, irritation, or ulcerations. Patients prepare the day before with a bowel prep for clear visibility. The procedure is performed with the patient under sedation, and polyps can often be removed immediately for analysis. Biopsies may be taken if needed. Patients return home the same day and resume activities soon after. According to Mickley, screening guidelines recommend that adults begin routine colonoscopies at age 45. However, those with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain medical conditions may need to start earlier. After an initial colonoscopy screening, follow-up timing depends on the results. Patients with no polyps and no family history may be able to wait up to 10 years for their next colonoscopy, while those with polyps may need repeat screenings in about five years. The specific recommendation on when to have the next colonoscopy screening will be based on the individual patient’s risk and findings. Recognizing potential warning signs of colorectal cancer is also important. Symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss should not be ignored. While these symptoms do not necessarily indicate cancer, they do signal the need for medical evaluation. As Mickley explains, “When colon cancer is detected early, patients get the services they need sooner, which helps with developing a successful treatment plan.” Taking a proactive approach to colorectal cancer screening can make a meaningful difference. To learn more or to schedule a colonoscopy, contact Morris Hospital Gastroenterology at 815-941-9320.
Morris Hospital and YMCA Team Up for “Healthy Happens Here” Series
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orris Hospital and the Morris Hospital YMCA have teamed up to offer a series of health, wellness and nutrition seminars that provide invaluable support and guidance for individuals looking to establish and maintain healthy lifestyles. Held at the Morris Hospital YMCA, 2200 W. Dupont Avenue, Morris, the seminars are free and open to everyone in the community age 18 and older. You do not have to be a YMCA member to participate. Healthy Happens Here Schedule: Nutrition Tips for GLP-1 Success Wednesday, September 16, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Are you using Ozempic, Wegovy, or another appetitesuppressant medication? While GLP-1 medications can help reduce appetite, they don’t teach you how to nourish your body properly. Join a Morris Hospital dietitian to learn how to quiet “food noise” and build sustainable, healthy habits through smart nutrition and practical lifestyle strategies. To register, call 815-705-7358 or go to morrishospital.org/events and look under the Nutrition category. Women’s Health at 40 and Beyond Tuesday, October 6, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Join Advanced Practice RN Heidi Miller from Morris Hospital Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists for an informative and empowering discussion that will explore the physical and hormonal changes associated with menopause, benefits and considerations of hormone therapy, importance of strong bone health, and the latest information on breast cancer early detection. To register, call the Morris Hospital YMCA at 815-513-8080 or go to morrishospital.org/events and look under the category: Education Classes at the YMCA. Arthritis Relief Monday, November 16, 4:30-5:30 p.m. This engaging program designed especially for seniors will focus on rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Join Morris Hospital Rheumatologist Dr. Belal Said to learn practical strategies for reducing joint pain, improving mobility, and staying active. To register, call the Morris Hospital YMCA at (815) 513-8080 or go to morrishospital.org/events and look under the category: Education Classes at the YMCA. August 2026 | Healthy Living | 9
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Grundy County Sergeant Returns to Full Duty with Help from Morris Hospital Occupational Therapists
Josh Slattery, Sergeant with the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office, successfully recovered from a biceps tear with the help of occupational therapists Alana McGovern (left) and Wendy Feeney from Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.
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hen Josh Slattery started therapy following surgery for a ruptured bicep, the goal was two-fold: to get Josh back to competitive power lifting and full functioning at his high demand job as a Sergeant with the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office. With help from the team at Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine that specializes in upper-extremity orthopedic injuries and hand therapy, Josh was able to do just that. He first noticed symptoms during power lifting workouts, a hobby that has been a big part of Josh’s life since 2014. At one time, he even held two state records in the squat and dead lift categories. “I could only do a couple of pull ups before I would start to feel a lot of pain in my elbow. Any type of curling really hurt. And when I would bench press and bring the bar down to my chest, the pressure on my biceps was extensive,” said Josh. “I had to cut a decent amount out of my workout program. I didn’t know what was going on, other than maybe golfers’ elbow or tennis elbow.” Josh did his best to work around the pain by trying different exercises, until something happened when he was bowling with his daughter. On the third role, he heard three “big pops” and felt an immediate burning sensation in his elbow and forearm. He tried to text a family member for help but couldn’t even hold his cell phone. That’s when Josh learned that he had ruptured his biceps. He underwent surgery with Dr. Robert Williams, a his board certified orthopedic surgeon at Morris Hospital who specializes in upperextremity conditions. “Dr. Williams told me my biceps was hanging by a thread when he went in to repair it,” said Josh. After spending six weeks in a 90-degree elbow cast, Josh was ready to start therapy in the highly specialized hand and upper extremity clinic at Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. That’s when he met Wendy Feeney, an occupational therapist and certified hand therapist. “After the surgery, Dr. Williams recommended that Josh attend therapy at our clinic,” said Feeney. “We have a great clinic in a unique setting that also gives us access to all of the comprehensive physical therapy equipment and easy access to the patients’ surgeons, right down the hall. Between Josh’s occupation and competitive weightlifting, we were challenged to return him to 100 percent in order for
him to fully perform his job duties and social activities.” Therapy initially focused on reducing swelling, improving elbow and forearm range of motion, and “remodeling” scar tissue to create optimal healing. “You wouldn’t believe the amount of scar tissue created with this type of surgery,” Feeney explained. “That was Josh’s biggest enemy. While he needed enough scar tissue to heal the injured area, we wanted to be sure he wasn’t developing too much (scar tissue) or he would be unable to bend or straighten his elbow. These are two functions needed to return to full work duty at the Sheriff’s Office and to competitive weight-lifting.” About four weeks later when Josh had progressed to full range of motion with his elbow and forearm, the focus shifted to strengthening the muscles in his shoulder and hand. Next, the therapists added activities to challenge his biceps. The last step for Josh was chin ups and pull ups. “As a therapist, it’s so important to understand the requirements of a patient’s occupation and what is important to them,” said Feeney. “With Josh, our first goal was to give him the confidence he needed to be able to go back to coaching his daughters’ softball team. After that, we carefully got him back to doing things that involved lifting. Lastly, we got him back to really being able to physically return to his peak performance, whether it was his job or power lifting.” Josh’s therapy program worked. After spending time on light duty at work, Josh passed all of the strenuous requirements that allowed him to return to patrol duty with the Grundy County Sheriff. He’s also back to weight-lifting. “All of my lifts are back up or past what they were before surgery,” said Josh. “The therapy team at Morris Hospital was amazing.” Morris Hospital’s upper extremity and hand clinic is located inside the Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine building at 1050 W. U.S. Route 6 in Morris. Morris Hospital also has rehabilitation locations in Channahon, Diamond, Joliet, and Ottawa. For more information, visit morrishospital.org, or call 815-942-8301.
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When is it Time for a Knee Replacement? C hronic knee pain can significantly impact daily life. From difficulty walking and standing to disrupted sleep and limited activity, knee arthritis can gradually reduce a person’s independence and quality of life.
Once a person makes the decision to see an orthopedic surgeon for knee pain, the next step is conservative management. This may include activity modification, physical therapy, cryotherapy, oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, and injections such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injections, according to Dr. Ahmed Eldib, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. Surgery is typically considered when imaging tests show moderate to severe arthritis and the patient continues to experience functional limitations despite conservative treatments. When knee pain interferes with basic activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or participating in hobbies, knee replacement may offer a path forward. Dr. Eldib uses several techniques for knee replacement surgery, including partial knee replacement, conventional and robotic-assisted total knee replacement, and revision knee replacement. According to Dr. Eldib, minimally invasive techniques allow for faster recovery, reduced postoperative
Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Orthopedic Surgery at Morris Hospital
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ako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery is available at Morris Hospital for total knee, partial knee, and total hip replacement surgeries, performed by board-certified orthopedic surgeon Ahmed Eldib, M.D., who has special training on the Mako System. Associated with less pain, less need for pain medications, reduced hospital length of stay, improved knee flexion and soft tissue protection, the innovative treatment solution may be recommended for specific patients depending on the severity of arthritis. One of the key components of Mako SmartRobotics™ is CTbased 3D modeling, which gives the orthopedic surgeon more
pain, shorter hospital stays, including outpatient surgery for most patients, and quicker return to full activity. Many patients are surprised to learn that early movement is encouraged soon after knee replacement surgery. In fact, patients typically begin mobilizing shortly after the procedure, with rangeof-motion goals of 90 degrees at two weeks and 110 to 120 degrees at four weeks. For Dr. Eldib, a successful surgery means patients experience relief from pain, better function, and a return to daily activities with comfort and confidence. While most modern knee implants are designed to last 15 to 25 years, the longevity of the knee implant can be influenced by patient-related factors such as age, sex, implant type, fixation method, and surgical technique. If chronic knee pain is affecting quality of life, it may be time to schedule a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss treatment options. Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine has office locations in Morris, Joliet, Diamond and Ottawa. To learn more, visit morrishospital.org/ orthopedics, or call 815-942-4875. information about the patient’s anatomy. Dr. Eldib then uses the 3D CT-based model of the patient’s joint to create a personalized surgical plan based on the patient’s unique anatomy. In the operating room, Dr. Eldib guides Mako’s robotic arm to remove diseased bone and cartilage within the pre-defined surgical field. It’s important to understand that the surgery is performed by the orthopedic surgeon, who guides Mako’s robotic arm during the surgery to position the implant in the knee or hip joint depending on the type of surgery. Mako does not perform surgery, make decisions on its own, or move without the surgeon guiding it. To learn more about Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery at Morris Hospital, visit morrishospital.org/mako
Ahmed Eldib, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon
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Do you have pain in your neck, back, shoulder, elbow, hand, knee, hip, foot or ankle? Our specialists provide expert care and treatment of orthopedic-related injuries and problems, always considering conservative treatment methods first. And if surgery is needed, we offer the latest innovations and techniques to help you move well and live better, including MakoTM Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery. Orthopedic Surgeons: Dr. Ahmed Eldib, Dr. Keith Rezin, Dr. Stephen Treacy, Dr. Robert Williams Orthopedic Spine Surgeon: Dr. Mir Ali Foot & Ankle Surgeon: Dr. Kyle Pearson Call today for an appointment: Diamond-Coal City and Morris: 815-942-4875 Joliet (Houbolt Rd): 815-741-4000 Ottawa: 815-433-0850
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