August 4, 1999
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Eric J. Anderson, MSHA, Administrator
(815) 942-4875

Re: Osteoarthritis of the knee affects almost 14 million Americans

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a painful and limiting condition that has no cure. Keith M. Rezin, MD, President of Rezin Orthopedic Centers, S.C., of Morris recently attended a special training workshop to learn about a breakthrough non-surgical treatment for knee pain.

"In a normal, healthy knee a thick fluid acts as both a cushion and a lubricant," explains Dr. Rezin. "In a knee with osteoarthritis, the cartilage is broken down and the joint fluid is not as thick and elastic as in a healthy knee. This results in less cushioning and lubrication of the knee joint and can cause pain."

Commonly known as "wear and tear" arthritis, osteoarthritis usually strikes people over the age of 50. It also occurs in people who have had sports or work related injuries. Nationally, osteoarthritis affects almost 14 million Americans every year. The frequency of the problem is expected to increase 55% by the year 2020. Osteoarthritis, commonly occurs in the knees, can cause pain and stiffness, limiting the ability to walk comfortably.

The goal of the treatment programs for osteoarthritis of the knee is to decrease pain and stiffness. Traditional therapy includes medication, physical therapy, and often surgery known as total knee replacement. A new medical approach, "viscosupplementation" was invented by Biomatrix scientists. Viscosupplementation involves the use of Synvisc, a product manufactured by Biomatrix, Inc.. The goal of this therapy is to supplement and restore the natural properties of the joint fluid. This breakthrough treatment complements traditional therapies. People receiving treatment with Synvisc may be able to postpone or eliminate the need for surgery.

Synvisc therapy is like lubrication for the knee and also acts like a kind of "shock absorber" to cushion the knee joint. Says Dr. Rezin, "Synvisc helps restore the joint fluid to a level and quality similar to that found in a healthy knee joint." Synvisc therapy involves three injections into the knee, one week apart, over a 15-day period. Clinical studies have shown that patients with osteoarthritic knee pain experience significant pain relief following Synvisc injections.

For additional information on this new non-surgical treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee, contact Dr. Keith Rezin at 1051 W. US Rte. 6, Morris, IL 60450, or call 815-942-4875 to schedule an appointment.