Oncology Services
Our oncology unit offers inpatient and outpatient chemotherapy and coordinates radiation therapy services. To help patients and their families through treatment, we offer education programs and support groups. Call 215-291-3880.
Temple Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Our orthopedics and sports medicine program is staffed by board-certified orthopaedic physicians, licensed physical therapists and certified athletic trainers. It provides state-of-the-art care for arthritis, athletic injuries, spinal disorders, fractures and foot and ankle problems. Call 215-291-3777.
Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Joint Replacement Program
Advanced Orthopedic Care...Convenient to You
Northeastern Hospital’s Joint Replacement Program offers you the latest state-of-the-art diagnostic, medical, surgical and rehabilitative care in a friendly, convenient setting. Our joint replacement program is staffed by board-certified orthopaedic physicians, licensed physical therapists and orthopaedic certified nursing staff. For patients considering surgery, our specialists can often use minimally invasive procedures that provide for quicker healing and less pain. Our facilities include state-of-the-art equipment such as laminar airflow units in our operating rooms to reduce the risk of infection.
Osteoarthritis
A joint is where two or more bones come together, letting you bend at the knee, hip, spine, elbow, wrist, shoulder, ankle, hand, thumb and many other parts of the body. A healthy joint glides easily without pain because a smooth, elastic tissue called articular cartilage covers the ends of the bones that make up the joint.
In the progressive disease osteoarthritis (OA), the covering on the ends of bones gradually wears away, becoming frayed and rough, like sandpaper. This can make it painful to move the joint. Also known as "wear and tear" arthritis, OA usually develops after many years of use and affects people who are middle aged or older. Other risk factors for OA include obesity, injury to a joint and family history of osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, with symptoms ranging from mild to disabling. A joint affected by OA may have pain and inflammation, swelling and stiffness, loss of range of motion, "sticking" and weakness.
Pain and inflammation. Without cartilage, bones rub directly against each other when you move, causing pain and inflammation. Joint pain usually develops gradually and may feel dull or aching. Pain may be worse in the morning and feel better with activity. Vigorous activity may cause pain to flare up.
Swelling and stiffness. The joint may stiffen and look swollen, enlarged or "out of joint." A bump may develop over the joint.
Loss of range of motion. Motion may be limited if bending the joint becomes difficult.
"Sticking" and weakness. Loose fragments of cartilage and other tissue can cause locking or "sticking" when you use the joint, it may creak, click, snap, or make a grinding noise (crepitus). The joint may lose its strength (atrophy) and buckle or lock.
Pain, stiffness, weakness, spasms and swelling are just some of the signs that you may need orthopedic care. We offer specialized care for the treatment of arthritis and the latest procedures in hip, knee and shoulder replacement. Our state-of-the art treatment will provide you with pain relief, improved strength and increased motion.
See a doctor right away if you have symptoms of osteoarthritis. Although osteoarthritis cannot be cured, early identification and treatment can slow progression of the disease, relieve pain and restore function.
Northeastern Hospital’s Orthopedics combines expertise and leading-edge technology to make sure that you receive the highest quality care. We get you back to what’s important — living your life freely and fully.
Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement Surgery
Minimally invasive joint replacement surgery was introduced in the early 2000s. It began with hip replacement surgery through one or two smaller incisions—about three to five inches from the seven to ten inches or more needed for the traditional procedure. Smaller incisions and less trauma to muscles and other soft tissues were found to result in less pain and a more speedy recovery for patients. Advanced, streamlined instruments and materials were developed for use with the smaller incisions.
Today, minimally invasive procedures are also used for knee replacement. It also involves a much shorter incision on the side or top of the knee—about four inches rather than the eight or more inches required for the traditional procedure.
The many advantages of the minimally invasive knee or hip replacement surgery for most patients include: less blood loss and trauma to surrounding muscles and tissues, a shorter hospital stay, earlier start of rehabilitation and a more speedy return to normal activities. In most cases, patients walk the day of surgery or the following morning if the surgery is in the afternoon. The typical hospital stay is approximately three days.
This minimally invasive procedure is not for everyone and your orthopedic surgeon will advise you on the most appropriate option for you. The procedure is most effective for people who are in good general health, at normal weight, younger than traditional joint replacement patients and those who are motivated to work hard during post-surgery rehabilitation.
For an orthopedic specialist who’s just right for you,
call (215)-291-3777.
Joint Camp – Our pre-surgery orientation program—helping you prepare for surgery and recovery
At Northeastern Hospital’s Replacement Program, care begins the moment you and your physician decide that hip or knee replacement is the best option for you. Our 90-minute pre-surgery orientation class will help you and a family member or caregiver prepare for surgery as well as for rehabilitation at the hospital, after discharge, and at home. You’ll also receive a Personal Education Planner that includes information on everything from preparing yourself and your home to nutrition and exercise before and after surgery.
About the class
During the 90-minute class, you will receive information about:
- The surgical procedure
- The role of physical therapy in your recovery
- Care you’ll receive before, during and after surgery
- Specialized equipment that will aid in your rehabilitation
- How we help control and manage pain throughout the process
- Leaving the hospital
- Answers to questions you may have
Class scheduling
Classes are held twice each month, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Complimentary parking is available in the Tulip Street lot across the street.
To register, call (215) 291-3213, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Family and caregiver participation is strongly encouraged
The class and Personal Education Planner are complimentary
Industrial Health Care Center
Our Industrial Health Care Center provides pre-employment examinations, periodic check-ups and injury evaluations. For your convenience, all laboratory, x-ray, pharmaceutical and physical therapy treatments are available in the hospital. Ask your employer to call 215-291-3056.
Finding a Primary Care Doctor
It is important that you have a primary care doctor to help manage your overall health. A primary care doctor is a family practice, internal medicine, OB/GYN or pediatric specialist. To find a doctor affiliated with Northeastern in your neighborhood, call 1-800-547-5183.
