Lancaster General Orthopedic Center and the Arthritis Foundation have long had a close relationship, helping each another with programs and initiatives related to arthritis awareness, support and treatment.

 

But for the first time, both organizations are working together to create a series of programs that will help people understand bone and joint diseases and the many resources available to them here in Lancaster County.

 

“We were looking for a way to make the community better aware of the more than 100 different forms of arthritis,” says Judy Smith, Co-interim Executive Director of the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, South Eastern Branch. “Chronic joint pain can affect anyone, old or young. Even babies and children can get arthritis.”

 

“Judy and the Arthritis Foundation always have their finger on the pulse of what people want and need to hear,” says Richard Reese, MD, Medical Director of the Lancaster General Orthopedic Center and physician with Lancaster Rheumatology Associates, a Lancaster General Medical Group practice. “And we can provide the expertise on the many issues related to arthritis.”

 

Dr. Richard Reese, Medical Director at the Orthopedic Center, will be among the featured speakers at the upcoming arthritis symposium events, co-sponsored by the Orthopedic Center and the Arthritis Foundation.

The result is “Arthritis: Prevention, Detection and Treatment,” a series of arthritis symposiums, held at different locations throughout Lancaster County. This 2 ½-hour program is valuable for the person with arthritis and his or her family, or to anyone who has an interest in arthritis.

 

The program begins with an hour-long keynote address and question-andanswer session by a rheumatologists from Lancaster Rheumatology Associates.

 

It is followed by other educational programs, where participants can learn more about specific arthritis-related issues and how to cope with the disease, such as physical therapy and exercise, nutrition, medication, billing/costs and prevention techniques.

 

“There are many newer therapies being used to treat arthritis today,” Dr. Reese says. “We want to be sure people are informed about the most advanced methods of treatment and care that are available to them today.”

 

Whether learning about treatment, caring for a family member, or how to get involved with fundraising events like the recent Lancaster County Arthritis Walk, there will be something of value and interest regarding the prevention, control and hope for a cure.

 

The first program was held on Sunday, April 27 at Dove Christian Fellowship in Ephrata. The program began with a discussion by Dr. Colleen Matejicka from Lancaster Rheumatology Associates and an overview of the different types of arthritis and treatment options.

 

Breakout sessions on exercise with bands were presented by exercise physiologist, D.C. Clark and nutrition educational sessions were presented by Wellness Center dietitian, Janelle Glick.

 

A second program featuring Dr. Sandhya Adusumilli was held Sunday, May 17 at Masonic Village in Elizabethtown. Future events are also being planned.

 

For more information about an upcoming symposium or for general information about arthritis, contact the Arthritis Foundation at 397-6271, or visit them at their new Lancaster office, 204 Butler Ave., Suite 102.

 

For information about the Orthopedic Center, call 544-7400.