Dameron Hospital | Health Outlook | Summer 2019

dameronhospital.org 3 knee pain, which develops as the smooth cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears away. Eventually, the cartilage can wear down to the bone, and the bones begin rubbing against one another, causing even more pain. Less pain, faster recovery with Rapid Strides Dameron Hospital’s Rapid Strides Accelerated Recovery © Knee Replacement Program uses the latest techniques to ensure a safe and accelerated recovery from knee replacement surgery. Our program offers an all-encompassing, minimally invasive approach to knee surgery that is more effective than traditional knee replacement surgery and that enables patients to recover in half the amount of time. This program is designed to significantly decrease pain and swelling as well, so patients can take their first steps almost immediately after surgery. In the past, residents of the Central Valley in need of a rapid recovery knee replacement found themselves leaving the familiarity of their community to seek professional help in larger cities. By bringing this innovative procedure to the community, residents can now get this state-of-the-art surgery and seamless follow-up care right here in Stockton at Dameron Hospital. According to Kevin Mikaelian, MD, orthopedic surgeon and Rapid Strides medical director, the unique combination of advanced surgical techniques and computer-assisted technology—along with highly effective pain management—achieves excellent results for patients in terms of pain relief, mobility and restoring their quality of life. The patient recovery period is also accelerated due to a much smaller incision to access and replace the knee joint. “By avoiding an incision into the quadriceps tendon— which occurs during a traditional knee replacement procedure—we provide the patient with immediate benefits in terms of speeding up the healing process and regaining use of their leg,” Dr. Mikaelian says. “Patients are usually discharged the day after surgery, and most patients will be able to walk without assistance in about half the time it takes following a traditional knee replacement.” Free informational seminars If you are experiencing chronic knee pain and considering a knee replacement, Dameron hosts free, no-obligation seminars where you can weigh your treatment options, gain clarity on whether you are a candidate for the Rapid Strides program and ask questions about the total knee replacement procedure. Kevin Mikaelian, MD Orthopedic surgeon, Rapid Strides medical director LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE! To learn more about our Rapid Strides Accelerated Recovery Knee Replacement Program and to sign up for a seminar, visit our website at dameronhospital.org/knee . forward