It is a group no one wants to join, yet even so, as many as 10 million Americans are members: sharing a diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Due to the wearing away of cartilage with time, osteoarthritis pain often impacts larger joints, such as the knees, and is often debilitating to a senior’s total wellbeing. With three main recommended treatment solutions – over-the-counter meds to reduce inflammation such as ibuprofen, prescription painkillers such as tramadol, or physical therapy – a great many of those with osteoarthritis have reconciled themselves to a lifetime of limping, discomfort, modified activity levels, and of course, chronic pain.
And although knee replacement surgery can be beneficial for some, not all arthritis sufferers are eligible; or, the potential risks that come with such an invasive procedure are too great, especially for aging adults. Now, however, an interesting new procedure has entered the arena, and provides great relief from chronic pain and without the potential risks or side effects of the other options. Referred to as cooled radio frequency ablation (“Coolief”), the process works by “…changing the wiring of the knee…taking away the pain signal and interrupting it,” according to Dr. Amin Sandeep, a pain specialist at Rush University Medical Center. The remarkable reduction in discomfort, inflammation and stiffness also allows many patients to reduce their need for medications and then to resume – or start – a more active lifestyle, contributing to better overall health and wellness.
Comparable to shots of cortisone, long-lasting but temporary relief from aches and pains is usually realized for a period of around six to twelve months. Requiring only local anesthetic, the treatment is performed on an outpatient basis within as little as 40 minutes. Risks and recovery time are minimal; nonetheless, it’s very important to bear in mind that the procedure does not alter, slow, or end the progress of osteoarthritis. Even so, for many individuals, quality of life is considerably improved as pain is lessened significantly.
Are you or a senior loved one experiencing the effects of osteoarthritis? Some help can go a long way towards improving wellbeing for seniors with chronic issues such as osteoarthritis and other conditions of aging, whether through assisting with housekeeping and doing the laundry, taking care of buying groceries and preparing meals, ensuring medicines are taken exactly as prescribed, or perhaps providing friendly companionship to brighten up the day. Call on our Kane County caregivers at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care at (630) 323-4665 or contact us online to learn more ways that we can help!