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Arthritis Center’s Specialized Services

Posted: June 1, 2006

At the Columbia St. Mary’s Arthritis Center, a specialized team of rheumatologists, nurses, therapists, dietitians, surgeons and others has developed their skills and expertise so they can improve the quality of life for persons with arthritis. There is an emphasis on education to help patients adjust their lifestyle and manage their disease.

Services available
There are many forms of arthritis and it is important to know what kind you have. Some kinds of arthritis are best treated by a rheumatologist (a physician who specializes in the care of people with arthritis and rheumatic diseases).

The Arthritis Day Treatment Program is a unique outpatient program designed to meet the needs of people with all forms of arthritis. The program is scheduled as a one-day visit which may last three to six hours depending on the individual's needs. If necessary, follow-up visits can be scheduled several weeks or months following the initial visit.

The Arthritis Day Treatment Program is a highly coordinated service. The services may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Nutritional therapy
  • Instruction on medications and disease process
  • Consultations with physician specialists
  • Special X-rays, bone scans
  • Laboratory studies
  • Epidural back injections

Exercise programs include:
PACE: People with Arthritis Can Exercise is sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation and the Columbia St. Mary’s Arthritis Center. PACE is an exercise program specifically designed for people with arthritis. During the eight-week program, participants go through a series of gentle movements and exercises designed to increase mobility and range of motion, and build overall stamina. Call for more information.

SPLASH BACK! is a water exercise program designed for those persons whose mobility is affected by the pain and stiffness of arthritis. The program consists of 45 minutes of gentle stretching and mobility exercises. The class is held in a warm-water therapeutic pool and led by a trained instructor. The sessions meet twice weekly for eight weeks. Call for more information.

To receive more information about Columbia St. Mary’s Arthritis Center, please call (414) 961-3594.


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