MetroSouth Medical Center (MSMC) is focusing on the care and prevention of achy knees as part of its “Knee Pain Loves Women” campaign. During April 2010, the hospital is offering a complimentary tool kit for women who want to strengthen their hamstring/quads and prevent or eliminate knee pain.   The free kit consists of a strengthening band and a helpful card that explains five simple, at-home exercises. The video above further demonstrates the appropriate technique for using these exercises.  The Knee Pain Loves Women toolkit is available in the gift shop in the hospital’s main lobby or can be ordered by sending an email with your NAME and MAILING ADDRESS to info@metrosouthmedicalcenter.com.

MetroSouth Medical Center is also offering three informational seminars featuring highly accomplished and experienced orthopedic surgeons discussing treatment options.  These programs will discuss why osteoarthritis of the knee is particularly troublesome in women, when women with knee pain might want to consider seeking the opinion of a knee specialist, and what non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available today.   Women attending the programs will better understand the implications of allowing their disease to progress and the drawbacks of not seeking early treatment.

The focus on osteoarthritis of the knee in women is in response to a rising number of women who struggle with knee pain. Recent studies show that women are struck by knee pain more frequently than their male counterparts. A new study by researchers at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics found that thigh muscle strength does predict incidence of painful or stiff knee osteoarthritis. Women with the strongest quadriceps muscles appeared to be protected against the development of knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

The simple exercises described in the toolkit and video were developed by a MetroSouth Medical Center physical therapist and are specifically designed for women with knee pain.  In addition to ordering your band, we welcome you to join MetroSouth at the following seminars on Women in Knee Pain.

Thursday, April 15, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Beverly Country Club, 8700 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL – Drs. Paul and Robert Atkenson

Tuesday, April 27, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Lobby at MetroSouth Medical Center, 12935 S. Gregory St., Blue Island, IL – Dr. Carl DiLella, who is team physician for the Chicago Machine (Lacrosse)

Thursday, April 29, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Raday Lodge, Midlothian Park District, 3220 W. 145th St. (145th & Kedzie), Midlothian, IL – Dr. Bruce Dolitsky

To register for a free seminar, call MetroSouth Medical Center at 708-489-7927.