OSTEO RELIEF INSTITUTE OF WALL 30 KNEE PATIENTS INFECTED BY INJECTIONS

The New Jersey Department of Health says that over 30 patients contracted infections at the Osteo Relief Institute in Wall Township after receiving injections for knee pain management.  The facility closed on March 7^th after patient complaints about bacterial infections.

Monmouth County Health Officer David Henry said that state and local investigators went into the clinic and found several breaches of injection control.  Among them were employees not washing their hands thoroughly and left needles sitting too long before patients were injected.

Osteo Relief Institute Jersey Shore, on its website, focuses on treating patients who suffer from knee pain, saying it uses “modern technology” to treat severe osteoarthritis. It operates multiple facilities nationwide. The business has tapped into a big market.  Osteoarthritis, commonly known as wear and tear, is the most widespread condition affecting the joints. It affects 27 million Americans, most of whom are over 65, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

The Better Business Bureau said Osteo Relief Institute started its business in Wall  in June 2012, and it has an A+ rating.  The Health Department said it doesn’t  regulate the facility.  The Board of Medical Examiners said it licenses physicians but not facilities.  David Henry said the County is working with numerous state agencies in the investigation.

Patients with infections may have a fever of more than 100.4 degrees, sudden or short-term swelling or an increase in swelling, a red rash around the joint or increased joint pain, according to the health department.  Anyone who had injections at the clinic and is worried about their health should contact their primary physician or the NJ Health Hotline 866-448-2432.