WEB ADDRESS www.mercydesmoines.org/ortho/index.cfm
	EMAIL ADDRESS scarlson@mercydesmoines.org
	PHONE (515) 247-3550 or (515) 643-BONE (2663)
	FAX (515) 643-4572
	MAIL Orthopaedics – 5 North Mercy Medical Center 1111 6th Avenue Des Moines, IA 50314
	LOCATION 5 North Mercy Medical Center – Des Moines

E-MAIL TO A FRIEND

Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons, nurses, therapists and support staff are
dedicated to providing quality care to our patients and support to their families.

As part of our orthopaedic service, we also have a special program for those patients needing joint replacement surgery. The Mercy Center for Joint Replacement, also known as "Joint Camp," is not a typical hospital experience. At Joint Camp, patients are up soon after surgery, dressed in their own clothing and working together with staff and other patients to recover as quickly as possible.

Through group exercise, patients encourage each other to work harder, and actually have a good time getting back in shape. The group experience also offers patients and families the opportunity to form friendships with other "campers" and their families.

Families are invited and strongly encouraged to take part in the process by being a "coach" for the patient. The coach attends therapy with the patient and learns about recovery needs for the next several weeks at home. Coaches are a vital part of the healing process.

In this atmosphere of wellness, patients are informed each step of the way on activities for the day through a daily newsletter provided with the morning breakfast tray. These light-hearted newsletters, Hip Tips and Knee Knotes, provide advice and tips on what to expect in the days and weeks to come.

For more information about orthopaedics at Mercy or about Mercy’s Joint Camp, call 515-643-BONE (2663) or e-mail Shari Carlson, Director, 5N Orthopaedics and Center for Joint Replacement, scarlson@mercydesmoines.org.

Knowledge is power. Learn more about your joint pain, hip, knee or shoulder issues – often there is a solution. Whether relief comes from medicine, surgery or lifestyle changes, you have options and the dedicated professionals at Mercy Medical Center are there for you every step of the way.

Learn about some of the more common orthopaedic conditions and what you can do to address them. This information is not intended to serve as your only source of medical information. Please contact your doctor for advice on your particular circumstances.