The members of the Shoalhaven Association of Independent Retirees (AIR) were fascinated recently by a presentation by Dr. Anil Goudar from South Coast Orthopaedic Clinic and his team of Meredith Primrose and Kerrie Madin from Nowra Private Hospital.
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Dr. Goudar spoke about the many ways they can help with disabilities, many of which are the result of ageing bodies and the many forms of arthritis.
Dr Goudar is an orthopaedic surgeon who joined the South Coast Orthopaedic Clinic in 2007 and since then has been providing services to the community in the Shoalhaven.
He specialises in lower body areas, like hip, knee and foot problems due to injury, or just the ageing process and arthritis.
Dr Goudar said that early intervention and a maintenance program can often delay or even avoid the need for the more drastic joint replacement surgery.
However if knee, hip, or other joint replacement becomes necessary, there is a comprehensive process to ensure the best result. This includes pre-operative assessment of the patient and how to cope after returning home.
An important part of the whole procedure is the rehabilitation of the patient and this was addressed by Kerrie Madin, the rehabilitation nurse manager at the hospital.
Kerry coordinates the rehabilitation team which includes physiotherapists and other therapy practitioners. Kerrie collaborates with patients and families to ensure the best outcome.
Dr. Goudar said there are more than 100 different types of arthritis many of which can lead to the need for joint replacement, the main two types being osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis (most commonly rheumatoid arthritis).
He said there are things that you can do with your lifestyle that can minimise the need for surgery. Risk factors include obesity, inactivity, muscle weakness, hard labour and trauma.
Dr. Goudar responded to many questions from members and gave his opinion on alternative treatments to joint replacements including acupuncture, arthroscopy, stem cell treatment and injections of cortisone and anaesthetics into the knee joint.
One member was surprised and pleased that Dr. Goudar did not rule out many activities after joint replacement that were previously enjoyed.
Dr. Goudar answered many questions from members and he and Kerry were warmly thanked for their interesting and informative presentation by president Bill Medaris.
AIR meets on the second Tuesday of the month at the Bomaderry Bowling Club at 10am, where there is always an interesting speaker.
The next meeting is on April 11 when there will be a speaker on financial matters
Visitors and new members are always welcome. For further information please phone secretary Peter Moate on 4448 7788 or president Bill Medaris on 4443 0189.