Men’s Colon Health Matters: 4 Reasons a Colonoscopy is Vital

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Men often prioritize various aspects of their lives like career, family, and hobbies, but tend to overlook a crucial component: Their health (particularly when it comes to colon health). While conversations about colon health may seem uncomfortable or taboo, it is essential for men to be aware of the importance of regular colon health screenings – especially having a colonoscopy by age 45 or sooner if they have risk factors.

Understanding Colon Health

The colon (also referred to as the large intestine) plays a significant role in the digestive process by absorbing water and nutrients, while also eliminating waste products from the body. It regulates everything going through your body, sending signals everywhere based on how the gut itself is feeling and what nutrients it’s taking in and filtering.

That’s why it’s vital to take care of your gut – and a colonoscopy is the best way to see what’s really going on in your gut…and prevent colon cancer.

Why Men Need a Colonoscopy

  • Early Detection – and PREVENTION – of Colon Cancer
    • Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men, and a colonoscopy allows your gastrointestinal doctor to examine the colon lining, identify precancerous growths (polyps), and remove them before they become cancerous. Regular screenings significantly reduce the risk of developing advanced-stage colon (or colorectal) cancer, increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes.
  • Detection of Other Colon Conditions
    • Colonoscopies enable the diagnosis of other colon-related conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Early diagnosis enables timely intervention and management of these conditions, improving the quality of life for men and minimizing potential complications.
  • Personalized Screening Recommendations
    • Your first colonoscopy sets the stage for taking care of your gut health for years to come. Based on the findings of an initial colonoscopy, your team of doctors will determine the appropriate screening intervals for subsequent examinations by factoring in your family history, personal health history, and the presence of any abnormalities. Regular colonoscopies help create a tailored screening plan, ensuring you receive appropriate follow-up care specific to your individual needs.
  • Reduction of Colon Cancer-related Deaths
    • Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE! However, many men (and women) put off their routine colonoscopies and then precancerous polyps can’t be located and removed at their earliest stages, before they grow into cancerous polyps.

Schedule your Colonoscopy Today!

Break the stigma surrounding colon health: Encourage men everywhere to prioritize colonoscopies and get a colonoscopy by age 45 (or sooner, with risk factors). Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan today to schedule your appointment.

‘Get Your Rear in Gear-Raleigh’ Raises $43K to Fight Colorectal Cancer

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Raleigh, NC – The Colon Cancer Coalition’s annual event, “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh,” rallied over 500 participants and raised an impressive $43,000 (and counting!) in support of colorectal cancer research and prevention. The event, held at WakeMed, showcased the dedication and generosity of Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and other sponsors, reinforcing the collective commitment to fighting this prevalent disease.

Under the banner of the Colon Cancer Coalition, the community came together to combat colorectal cancer and create a lasting impact. With the participation of enthusiastic individuals and the unwavering support of sponsors, “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh” proved to be a remarkable success. Raleigh Endoscopy Centers, a vital sponsor of the event, demonstrated their dedication to the cause and highlighted the importance of screenings in the fight against colorectal cancer.

A Call for Action: Screening at 45

Colorectal cancer ranks as the second most leading cause of death among both men and women in the U.S. Alarming statistics reveal that approximately 150,000 Americans receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis annually, while approximately 53,000 lose their lives to this disease. Recognizing the urgency to address this issue, Raleigh Endoscopy Centers emphasized the significance of scheduling a cancer screening appointment starting at the age of 45. Timely screenings enable early detection and intervention, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Racing to Make a Difference

Amid the vibrant atmosphere at WakeMed, participants reveled in the spirit of competition while supporting a noble cause. Noteworthy race results included John Smith claiming first place in the 5K race and Sarah Adams emerging victorious in the 10K race. Their achievements symbolize the resilience and determination displayed by all participants as they raced to make a difference in the fight against colorectal cancer.

The success of “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh” would not have been possible without the generous support of Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and other sponsors. The Colon Cancer Coalition expressed their heartfelt appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success. In their quest to improve future events, organizers welcomed feedback from attendees, ensuring an even more impactful gathering in the years to come. They look forward to future collaborations with Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and the community to raise awareness and funds for colorectal cancer research and prevention.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today!

It’s time to prioritize your health and take a stand against colorectal cancer. If you’re 45 or older, scheduling your colonoscopy is a crucial step in early detection and prevention. The success of “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh,” demonstrated the power of community in the fight against this deadly disease.

By scheduling your colonoscopy today, you not only protect your own well-being but also contribute to a greater cause. Early detection saves lives, and your action can have a significant impact. Join us in the ongoing battle against colorectal cancer, because together, we can make a lasting difference. Don’t wait any longer—take charge of your health and schedule your colonoscopy now. Your appointment can be the turning point in the fight against this prevalent disease, offering hope and saving lives.

Celebrate Men’s Health Month by Scheduling a Colonoscopy

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Are you current with your preventive screenings? June is Men’s Health Month, which encourages men and their families to get regular checkups and increase awareness of health risks for their age, ethnicity and family health history.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 13 percent of men older than 18 are in fair or poor health. Less than one-third of adult men meet federal standards for muscle-strengthening activity. About 40 percent of adult men are obese and almost 52 percent have hypertension.

Men’s Health Week is June 12-18

Men’s Health Week is June 12-18. This initiative reminds men to maintain healthy bodies by eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise and getting screened to prevent disease. One of the most important preventive screenings is for colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, which can detect and prevent colon cancer. Men should prioritize a colon cancer screening like they do other preventive screenings such as a prostate exam.

How common is colon cancer in men?

The risk of a male developing colon cancer is 1 in 23, which is slightly higher than a female (1 in 26). It is estimated there will be more than 106,000 new cases of colon cancer in 2023, as well as 46,000 cases of rectal cancer.

Because more people are getting screened, colon cancer incidence has been decreasing by about 1 percent every year. However, colon cancer rates have been increasing by 1 to 2 percent in adults younger than 50.

Warning signs of colon cancer and risk factors

Although colon cancer risk increases with age, you are never too young to develop the disease. Colon cancer is highly treatable when it is detected in the early stages. Because anyone can develop colon cancer, it is important to know the symptoms and warning signs of colon cancer.

  • Abdominal pain
  • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
  • Blood in the stool

If you experience any of these warning signs, you should contact your doctor right away.

Colonoscopy: gold standard of colon screenings

Although there are many types of colon cancer screenings, colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test. Colonoscopy is the only screening that allows a doctor to inspect the entire colon for polyps, which can become cancerous. Your doctor can remove any suspicious polyps during your exam and have them analyzed.

The American Cancer Society recommends that men and women who are at average risk for colon cancer should start regular colon cancer screenings beginning at age 45. Those who are in good health should continue screening until 75.

Take a step toward colon health

This month, take the steps to support your health and wellness:

  1. Eat more fruits and vegetables while limiting added sugar, saturated fat and sodium.
  2. Stop smoking or do not begin smoking.
  3. Stay active by getting 2.5 hours of exercise per week.
  4. Schedule annual health screenings.

Many cases of colon cancer are preventable with routine screenings, so check with your doctor to get advice on which tests are best for you. Encourage family members to schedule colon, prostate and breast cancer screenings for their health.

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Celebrate Family Fitness Day With a Family Walk

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One of the best ways to stay healthy and spend time together as a family is to take a walk together. Daily walks can improve your cardiovascular fitness, reduce joint pain and support overall wellness.

On a practical level, walking is an inexpensive activity. It requires no equipment besides supportive, comfortable athletic shoes. Walking is a good social activity, providing opportunities for conversation with friends and family.

Benefits of a 30-minute walk

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, moderate to vigorous walking can reduce anxiety and increase memory, sleep and brain function. A recent study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found walking or jogging for 30 minutes five times per week helps blood flow in and out of the brain. It does not matter whether you walk on a treadmill or take a walk in your neighborhood — the benefits are the same.

“Both will provide similar benefits, so the best option between treadmill vs. track is the one you enjoy doing and have regular/easiest access to and will, therefore, be the best option to help you stick with your walking routine,” said Amanda Paluch, assistant professor in the department of kinesiology and Institute for Applied Life Sciences at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Walking is easy on your joints

If you have arthritis, walking is one of the best activities you can do. Consistent walking can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Staying within the recommended body mass index (BMI) reduces strain on joints and reduces symptoms of joint pain and arthritis.

How much should you walk? Remember the FIT Formula:

Frequency — Try to walk three to five times per week. Talk to your doctor if you are just beginning your routine.

Intensity — You may need to begin with a lower level of intensity and gradually increase over time. Try to work up to a moderate to vigorous level of intensity. Don’t overdo it; an injury will set you back and may take a long time to heal.

Time — Try to walk for 30 minutes per day. If you can’t walk for 30 minutes, just begin with five minutes. Every day, you will get stronger and have more endurance.

Parks as recreational options

Living close to parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities are related to increased levels of physical activity for adults and children. Parks also help people connect to nature, which can relieve stress and improve mental health and mood. According to NRPA Park Pulse, 86 percent of adults think it is important to spend time outside in nature when things get stressful.

Whether you are walking, jogging or playing with your family in the park, exercise can accomplish the following:

  • Relieve joint pain
  • Boost immunity
  • Fight obesity
  • Reduce breast cancer risk
  • Decrease sugar cravings
  • Help maintain body weight
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Reduce the risk of type II diabetes
  • Strengthen the musculoskeletal system

Family Fitness Day is June 10

You can celebrate your renewed commitment to health on June 10 — Family Health and Fitness Day. You and your family can participate in this initiative by participating in recreational programs and activities in your community. There are limitless possibilities, from a game of kickball to a family 5K. You can always begin with a leisurely outdoor walk at a park in your hometown.

Call your orthopedist to manage joint pain

Are you living with joint pain? Call your orthopedist to make an appointment to discuss your mobility and activity level. Your doctor can determine the cause of your joint pain and provide treatment options. Get active on Family Health and Fitness Day and have fun with your family!

Focus on Cataract Awareness to Improve Vision

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It is important as we age to protect our eyes from cataracts, the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S.

Observing Cataract Awareness Month in June promotes information about this common eye condition that affects more than 24 million Americans.

A cataract develops when proteins in the eye clump together and cloud the lens.

Symptoms of cataracts may not be visible at first, but eventually, you may notice your vision become cloudy or blurry. You may also have difficulty seeing at night, especially while driving. You may see halos around lights, faded or yellow colors or even experience double vision.

When cataracts start affecting your lifestyle, they are treatable with a simple surgical procedure, which has a 98 percent success rate.

Eye conditions share risk factors

Cataracts and glaucoma may occur at the same time in a patient’s eyes.

Like cataracts, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Glaucoma causes vision loss through damage to the optic nerve. About three million people in the U.S. have this disease.

According to an article in Medical News Today, having either cataracts or glaucoma “does not directly lead to the development of the other, [but] having one condition can increase the risk of developing the other.”

Learning facts about both conditions and seeking treatment early may prevent permanent vision loss.

According to the National Eye Institute, cataracts can increase the risk of elevated eye pressure, which may lead to glaucoma.

Similarly, some treatments for glaucoma may worsen cataracts and speed up their formation, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

Both conditions typically occur in adults over age 55 and often in people with a family history. Some medications, past eye injuries or certain medical conditions can increase the risk of developing both.

Lifestyle factors may increase your risk of cataracts. Factors include excessive exposure to sunlight, smoking tobacco, obesity, high blood pressure, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

Risk factors for glaucoma include African-American heritage, history of steroid use (either in eyedrops or systemically), being nearsighted (myopic), being farsighted (hyperopic) and history of elevated intraocular pressure.

Treatments vary for eye conditions

While cataracts and glaucoma both negatively affect one’s vision, the symptoms and treatments vary for each.

Living a healthy lifestyle goes a long way toward cataract prevention. To slow the development, make healthy lifestyle choices:

  • Wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Take antioxidant supplements like vitamins A, C and E.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Manage diabetes and heart disease.

Ultimately, surgery is the only treatment option to medically remove a cataract and treat the effect on your eyesight.

There is no cure for glaucoma, so early detection is critical. In its early stages, glaucoma usually has no symptoms. Increased eye pressure creates stress on the optic nerve, and if it is damaged, vision loss occurs. Once diagnosed, treatment options include medications, laser treatment and surgery.

New developments in Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) allow patients to have glaucoma and cataract surgery during one procedure. The surgery is safe and effective in treating primary open-angle glaucoma and a cataract.

Don’t delay your diagnosis

Preventive measures or treatment may lessen or cure about 75 percent of disease-related eyesight loss.

Doctors recommend regular eye exams beginning at age 40 or earlier if you have eye disease risk factors, including family history, diabetes and high blood pressure.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates about 39 million Americans will have cataracts by 2032.

Glaucoma is expected to affect more than four million Americans by 2030, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

If you are at risk for these eye conditions, don’t delay your diagnosis. Schedule a comprehensive exam offered by an ophthalmologist at your eye center.

River Oaks Endoscopy Center Implements AI-Powered Solution for Advanced Colon Cancer Screening

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River Oaks Endoscopy Center, a renowned provider of exceptional patient care, has integrated revolutionary AI technology that improves colon cancer screening efficiencies. This cutting-edge system underscores the center’s commitment to improving health outcomes and delivering superior care to patients.

By leveraging advanced AI technology, the endoscopy center enhances the precision and effectiveness of colonoscopies. The intelligent system collaborates with medical professionals, providing an additional layer of analysis during the procedure. It diligently analyzes real-time video feeds from the endoscope, assisting physicians in identifying potential abnormalities like polyps that can lead to colon cancer.

One of the significant benefits of this breakthrough AI technology is its ability to facilitate early detection of colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. Detecting polyps at their nascent stages empowers patients to receive timely interventions, leading to more successful treatment outcomes and improved long-term survival rates. Additionally, the AI-assisted approach allows for the removal of precancerous polyps during the same procedure, reducing the risk of cancer development and minimizing the need for subsequent invasive interventions.

How Patients Benefit from AI

The integration of AI technology into colon cancer screenings at the endoscopy center offers several advantages to patients. By enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the procedure, the technology reduces examination time, minimizing patient discomfort and promoting a more comfortable experience. Furthermore, the AI system acts as a second set of eyes, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the colon, which contributes to improved detection rates and more effective preventive measures.

Alongside the integration of AI technology, the endoscopy center is dedicated to delivering compassionate care and exceptional support to patients throughout the screening process. The experienced staff strives to create a supportive environment, addressing patient concerns, and ensuring a positive experience at every step.

Through the utilization of this groundbreaking AI technology, the endoscopy center establishes itself as a leader in revolutionizing colon cancer screenings. By embracing innovative approaches and advancements in medical technology, the center remains at the forefront of the fight against colorectal cancer, emphasizing its commitment to patient well-being and improved health outcomes.

Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening

Individuals aged 45 and above are strongly encouraged to schedule a colon cancer screening at the endoscopy center. By taking this proactive step, patients can benefit from the precision, efficiency, and enhanced detection capabilities provided by AI technology.

Louisville Endoscopy Center Implements AI-Powered Solution for Colon Cancer Screening

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Louisville Endoscopy Center, a renowned provider of exceptional patient care, has integrated revolutionary AI technology that improves colon cancer screening efficiencies. This cutting-edge system underscores the center’s commitment to improving health outcomes and delivering superior care to patients.

By leveraging advanced AI technology, the endoscopy center enhances the precision and effectiveness of colonoscopies. The intelligent system collaborates with medical professionals, providing an additional layer of analysis during the procedure. It diligently analyzes real-time video feeds from the endoscope, assisting physicians in identifying potential abnormalities like polyps that can lead to colon cancer.

One of the significant benefits of this breakthrough AI technology is its ability to facilitate early detection of colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. Detecting polyps at their nascent stages empowers patients to receive timely interventions, leading to more successful treatment outcomes and improved long-term survival rates. Additionally, the AI-assisted approach allows for the removal of precancerous polyps during the same procedure, reducing the risk of cancer development and minimizing the need for subsequent invasive interventions.

How Patients Benefit from AI

The integration of AI technology into colon cancer screenings at the endoscopy center offers several advantages to patients. By enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the procedure, the technology reduces examination time, minimizing patient discomfort and promoting a more comfortable experience. Furthermore, the AI system acts as a second set of eyes, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the colon, which contributes to improved detection rates and more effective preventive measures.

Alongside the integration of AI technology, the endoscopy center is dedicated to delivering compassionate care and exceptional support to patients throughout the screening process. The experienced staff strives to create a supportive environment, addressing patient concerns, and ensuring a positive experience at every step.

Through the utilization of this groundbreaking AI technology, the endoscopy center establishes itself as a leader in revolutionizing colon cancer screenings. By embracing innovative approaches and advancements in medical technology, the center remains at the forefront of the fight against colorectal cancer, emphasizing its commitment to patient well-being and improved health outcomes.

Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening

Individuals aged 45 and above are strongly encouraged to schedule a colon cancer screening at the endoscopy center. By taking this proactive step, patients can benefit from the precision, efficiency, and enhanced detection capabilities provided by AI technology.

5 Myths About Celiac Disease Everyone Needs to Know — Especially if You Don’t “Have” It

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You may have heard about Celiac Disease or know someone who has it – but you could also be suffering in silence. The more you learn about Celiac Disease, the more you can talk to your doctor about getting tested for Celiac Disease, and you can feel better and stave off additional health problems.

Read the truths behind these 5 Myths About Celiac Disease Everyone Needs to Know:

MYTH #1: It’s no big deal; I can handle an upset stomach if I keep eating gluten.

TRUTH: If you have only a gluten sensitivity, you may only deal with stomach discomfort. However, Celiac Disease involves more than some fleeting abdominal pain: It can also cause long-term harm because the body essentially attacks itself with an immune system response when it has to fight off gluten. That’s why it’s imperative to take care of your gut health.

MYTH #2: It’s just a stomach issue.

TRUTH: Celiac Disease has symptoms throughout the rest of your body, which is why sometimes people go awhile before it’s diagnosed. Think about it: What you consume fuels your body –  so if it doesn’t have the right fuel, you can experience misfires throughout your entire system. When you have Celiac Disease, it affects much more than just your digestive system and can affect your neurological system, and contribute to headaches, iron-deficiency anemia, brain fog, menstrual and fertility issues, depression, and more.

MYTH #3: Avoiding gluten is impossible.

TRUTH: While you’ll have to avoid most traditional pastas, rice, cereals, and many processed foods, we’ve come a long way and many grocers, restaurants, pizzerias, and more offer gluten-free alternatives. Choose oats as an alternative (after clearing there’s no cross-contamination). Substitute potato, rice, soy, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, or bean flour for wheat flour when cooking. You probably have a few staples and meals in your regular rotation…simply taking some time to find replacements for them will make it easier to adjust your eating habits.

MYTH #4: It’s “trendy” — chances are I don’t have Celiac Disease.

TRUTH: It’s estimated that 1 in 100 people have Celiac Disease – but hardly everyone gets tested for it, so we don’t really know how common it is. However, those estimates put it at being more common than having a peanut allergy. And the instances of Celiac Disease are rising, as more people become informed and get tested.

MYTH #5: I don’t have the same symptoms as my parent (or child) does, so it’s not Celiac Disease.

TRUTH: Celiac Disease presents itself with a range of different symptoms in each person — and close blood relatives have a higher instance of being diagnosed with Celiac Disease — so it could be likely that you also have Celiac Disease. And since Celiac Disease can develop at any age, even if you’ve been tested a decade ago it could now have high enough levels to be detected.

Get Tested

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich., we can test you to determine if you have Celiac Disease (which could be contributing to a host of other ailments you’re dealing with as well). Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take care of your gut health!

Colon Cancer Screenings Are Essential for Women’s Health

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May is Women’s Health Month, a time to encourage women to care for their physical, mental and emotional health. This year, we celebrate Women’s Health Week May 14-20. Besides exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and getting adequate sleep, women can improve their overall wellness by scheduling preventive health screenings.

A colon cancer screening should be part of a woman’s health screening checklist, like annual mammograms, pap smears and skin checks.

Colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.

A colon cancer screening is essential to a woman’s health because most colon cancer is treatable when diagnosed early. According to the American Cancer Society, doctors will diagnose more than 150,000 new cases of colon or rectal cancer this year, making it the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The lifetime risk for colon cancer is about 1 in 26 for women and 1 in 23 for men.

Many cases of colon cancer are preventable with regular screenings. Colonoscopy is the gold standard of colon cancer screening because it allows a gastroenterologist to examine the entire colon for polyps and other abnormalities. Most polyps can be removed during the procedure, thereby preventing them from becoming cancer.

Younger people with later-stage colon cancer

The death rate of colon cancer has decreased in both genders for several decades. There are several possible reasons for this change. More sophisticated screening techniques make it easier for doctors to detect polyps and colon cancer earlier when they are more treatable. Additionally, colon cancer treatments have improved over the years.

Although the overall incidence of colon cancer has decreased, the incidence in patients younger than 50 years old has almost doubled. In addition, research in 2019 found that adults younger than 55 comprised 20 percent of new colon cancer cases. Also, studies found the proportion of adults with later-stage colon cancer was 60 percent in 2019, compared to 52 percent in the mid-2000s.

“There is a lot of research going on,” said Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD, senior vice president for surveillance and health equity science at the American Cancer Society. “Some people say it’s probably obesity or changes in diet over the past decades that might be a reason, but really, we don’t know exactly what causes this rapid rise in colorectal cancer incidence rates.”

Colon cancer screenings can prevent cancer

Routine screening offers the best defense against colon cancer. Unfortunately, only 4 out of 10 adults get screened at proper intervals.

Studies show barriers to screening include the following:

  • Fear of the screening procedure
  • Financial challenges
  • Lack of insurance
  • Transportation challenges
  • Perceived lack of time

Even though colonoscopy is the preferred screening method, other screening options are less invasive and only take a few minutes to complete. There are also options for affordable colon cancer screenings, including low-cost colonoscopy.

Observe National Women’s Health Week and get screened

Ask your doctor when you should have colon cancer screening. The recommended age for screening is 45, but many adults are at risk for developing the disease earlier. If you have a family history of colon cancer or a history of precancerous polyps, you may be able to get a colonoscopy earlier. Finally, if you have digestive symptoms, you should discuss these with your doctor regardless of age. Everyone is at risk for colon cancer, so it is essential to ask your doctor when to begin colon cancer screening.

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Joint Replacement Advised for Some Arthritis Patients

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Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects more than 32.5 million U.S. adults. It is the most common form of arthritis.

OA is known as “wear and tear” arthritis. The cartilage within a joint breaks down and the underlying bone changes, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Without treatment, this disease may cause long-term damage to joints, causing pain and reducing mobility.

Two health organizations recommend patients with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis should not delay joint replacement surgery. These patients have not responded to nonsurgical therapies.

In March, the American College of Rheumatology and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons released new guidelines for the “optimal timing of elective hip or knee replacement.”

Susan M. Goodman, MD, an attending rheumatologist at the Hospital for Special Surgery, was a co-principal investigator of the guidelines.

“There is no evidence that delaying surgery for any of the additional nonoperative treatments studied, including physical therapy, gait aids, oral anti-inflammatories or injections, leads to improved outcomes, and [such delays] may burden patients without clear benefit,” Dr. Goodman said in the release.

A panel, which included rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons and patient representatives, developed 13 recommendations. These recommendations included guidelines for surgical candidates with high BMIs, diabetes and nicotine dependence.

The guidelines issued are “conditional” or based on a case-by-case basis. A patient should discuss any treatment with his or her doctor.

“This shared decision-making process should comprehensively discuss the unique risks and benefits of the procedure for the individual patient,” Dr. Goodman said. “Patients with medical or surgical risk factors as described in this guideline should be counseled as to their increased risks, and preoperative attempts to modify these risk factors through efforts such as weight loss, glycemic control or smoking cessation should be encouraged.”

The full manuscript will be published later this year in Arthritis & Rheumatology, Arthritis Care & Research and the Journal of Arthroplasty.

Factors affecting arthritis

May is National Arthritis Awareness Month. During this observance, it is important to highlight factors affecting or leading to an osteoarthritis diagnosis.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis may include pain or aching, stiffness, decreased flexibility or swelling in your knees, hips or hands.

The risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA) increases as we age. According to the CDC, people who have family members with OA are more likely to develop the disease. Women are more likely to develop OA than men, especially after age 50.

The CDC notes that repetitive stress on a joint can damage and increase the risk of OA in that joint. Carrying extra weight puts more stress on joints, particularly the hips and knees.

When to seek a doctor’s care

If chronic pain interrupts daily activities like bending over to tie a shoe, rising from a chair or taking a short walk, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

A routine physical exam and some tests will help to determine if you have osteoarthritis. To better evaluate your condition, your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, general health, family history and daily habits.

Once diagnosed, your doctor can educate you on your medication plan and teach you how to manage your arthritis daily.

The Arthritis Foundation recommends staying active with low-impact activities such as walking, biking, swimming, yoga and water aerobics as part of your treatment plan.

If you are overweight, losing 10 to 20 percent of your body weight improves pain, function and quality of life, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Don’t delay your care

If you suffer from chronic pain possibly caused by arthritis, do not ignore these symptoms or your condition may worsen.

Depending on your condition, treatment plans may vary. The Arthritis Foundation recommends at-home remedies like hot or cold therapies and massage for pain relief.

  • Applying a heating pad and taking a warm bath can improve blood flow and ease joint stiffness. Using cold packs (such as a bag of frozen vegetables placed on the painful joint) reduces pain and swelling.
  • Rubbing and kneading of muscles and joints can help reduce OA pain, improve joint function and ease stress.

Other treatments may include physical therapy or even hip or knee replacement. If a doctor recommends joint replacement surgery, the goal is to reduce your pain and increase your range of motion. During surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage will be replaced with prosthetic components, called implants.

If you are experiencing joint pain, don’t delay your care. Request an appointment today for an evaluation.