The following content is created in consultation with NorthShore University HealthSystem. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC Chicago's editorial staff. To learn more, visit northshore.org/ortho.
Watching the world’s top athletes compete in the Sochi games is inspiring. Thanks to years of training, they’re in peak physical condition. But years can also take their toll—on athletes and on everyone else.
“Over time, joints are subject to a lot of wear and tear,” says Lalit Puri, M.D., M.B.A., Division Head of Adult Reconstruction at NorthShore University HealthSystem. Elbows, shoulders, ankles—and especially knees and hips—can all degrade, causing pain and restricting movement. Arthritis can further cause problems.
“Too many people just accept joint pain as part of aging, and they let it limit their activities,” says Dr. Puri, who treats both professional athletes and weekend warriors. “With our technology and surgical techniques, people don't have to put up with chronic pain and disability.”
Avid athletes may think they need to give up running or biking. Older adults may no longer enjoy taking walks or playing with grandkids. But there are many treatment options available for joint pain, including nonsurgical, surgical and minimally invasive procedures.
NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute has leading fellowship-trained specialists in all aspects of orthopaedic care. They understand that you just want the pain to go away so you can get active again.
“Surgery can be a scary word, so people put off talking to anyone.” says Dr. Puri. “But ultimately, our patients feel like they’ve gotten their lives back. Our knee and hip replacement patients all say the same thing: ’I wish I’d done it sooner.’”
For more information, call (855) 929-0100 or visit northshore.org/ortho.
