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A Wellness Maga zine, 2011 • 2012
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Ayurveda
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Gluten Free
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Tuning into rhythms
Q&A with Erinn Butulis
Fitness training
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New remedies
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Six things
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Health evolution revolution
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Why do I feel so uneasy?
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Kids bathroom
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Mental health
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What’s that?
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Frankenfoods
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It’s such a pill
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What is physical therapy?
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Dogs
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More than lifting weights
For pain, trauma and anxiety
Young adult health care
By Kate Stillman
By Bridget Lyons
In Teton Valley
Hearing loss
Genetically modified foods
Scott Anderson.............. Publisher Lisa Newcomb............... Managing Editor Rachael Horne............... Writer Ken Levy........................ Writer/Photographer Meg Heinen................... Advertising Sales Amy Birch...................... Art Director Linda Reynaud............... Circulation Sharon Fox..................... Office Manager
The Teton Valley News
Health & Wellness Magazine is a publication of the Teton Valley News 75 North Main Driggs, ID 83422 208-354-8101 tetonvalleynews.net
encourage owners to get moving
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yurveda focuses on individuals tuning into rhythms As man has evolved and technology has become so advanced, we’ve disconnected with nature. Ayurveda is a way of having an understanding, of reconnecting with that.
Ken Levy / H&W Staff
S
uzanne Leusch is a clinical ayurvedic specialist who provides nutritional education and lifestyle counseling. Ayurveda, the Indian sister science to yoga, translates as the knowledge, or science, of life. “It’s learning that each person has their own, unique constitution and how to come to an understanding of ourselves and how to live in relationship to our natural environment,” Leusch said. “It’s really just tuning into the rhythms of nature in accordance with our own, unique constitution.” Seasonal eating comes into play in meshing with these rhythms.
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“As man has evolved and technology has become so advanced, we’ve disconnected with nature,” she said. “Ayurveda is a way of having an understanding, of reconnecting with that. It’s tuning into the natural cycles and knowing your own personal, innate character and what’s going to be sustainable for
you, and what’s not.” Leusch said there is a natural ebb and flow with each Suzanne Leusch season, “and we want to tune sweet potatoes and parsnips into the foods that are available during that “to help ground us. We have more of a high-protein, season. They’re a natural high-fat diet in the winter.” antidote for the ailments and diseases or imbalances Meats are very approprithat might arise during those ate during that time, said seasons.” Leusch, as are the storage In the summer, for example, crops including roots and winter squash that “give us many people are experiencbulk for the winter.” ing conditions of heat, such as excessive acidity or skin rashes. A lot of that can be attributed to not shifting the diet to match the season. “In the summer, we eat a high-carb diet,” she said. Her garden “is going crazy with lots of fruits and vegetables that are really high-carb. That gives us lots of energy to keep up with the long days.” Shifting into the cold winter season, which is rough and dry, nature provides nurturing and grounding foods such as the root vegetables of beets, carrots, potatoes,
Spring is moist, heavy and although warming up, it’s still cold, she said.
“So it’s best to emphasize foods that are light, dry and warm. We shift to cleansing, low-fat foods that are high in chlorophyll or seeds, sprouts and leafy greens.” Those leafy greens may not always be the usual choices of lettuce, spinach and others. Think dandelions, which offer a level of bitterness that combats excessive moisture. Thistles and watercress also offer Continued on next page
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benefits, such as cleansing the liver and blood. Cut off the leaves of thistle to make a great pesto, Leusch said, and watercress also works well in this and other recipes. The foods are available locally through farmers’ markets, and the program ties into finding — or growing— local food. Between farmer’s markets and her own garden, Leusch said, she rarely has to go to the supermarket for fresh food. Nancy Van Dyke, outgoing program director for Slow Food in the Tetons and Full Circle Education, said studies indicate the best, healthiest foods are those that spend
minimal time between harvest and consumption. “In terms of health and wellness, of the community as well, buying food that’s grown here supports families and local businesses,” Van Dyke said. “We’re helping to feed this community that centers on food and farming and open space. That context of community wellness is really important.” There’s a lot more vitality in the food when it’s picked fresh, said Leusch, “as opposed to it sitting in boxes in a cooler and driving 3,000 miles.” Leusch runs Mountain Sage Ayurveda. Phone (208) 201-6872, or email mountainsageayurveda@gmail.com for more information.
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Vegan Pesto Ingredients: • 2 cups, washed, loosely packed fresh basil (you can try other fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley too.) • 1/2 cup nuts (pecans, walnuts and cashews work well or try seeds like sunflower, pumpkin or hemp)
Q&A with Erinn Butulis of Gluten Free 363 Rachael Horne / H&W Staff
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup olive oil
Erinn blogs about her challenge of becoming gluten free and committing to a long-term lifestyle change. She posts on research, websites, challenges, resolution, reviews and recipes of the gluten-free life. Readers can also find dairy-free and vegan posts and recipes as well.
• Juice 1/4 – 1/2 of lemon (depending on your taste)
What is gluten?
• 2 cloves fresh garlic
• Sea salt, fresh pepper to taste Directions: • Pulse nuts, seeds and garlic in food processor • Add basil and continue to pulse until it forms a meal • Add lemon and olive oil • Continue to scrape down sides and pulse • Salt and pepper to taste Pesto goes well in just about anything: pasta, pizza, eggs, even a gluten- and dairy-free grilled tomato and cheese sandwich with pesto spread and tomato soup!
I
t may seem like rocket science at first, but in the simplest verbiage, gluten is a protein found in grains; it is a protein found in wheat, rye or barley. Oats/ oatmeal do not contain gluten itself but is often cross-contaminated during the growing or processing stages. Something to keep an eye out for on products and labels is that things may say wheat free, but that does not mean gluten free, it may still contain rye or barley. So therefore, wheat free does not mean gluten free. What’s the difference between being intolerant vs. allergic?
It is important to realize that sensitivity to certain foods may not always be
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caused by a food allergy, but may be the result of food intolerance. This differentiation is important since these two types of sensitivities occur as a result of two distinct physiological events. While their difference is worth briefly noting here, if you would like further detail, please refer online to Food Sensitivity Q+A that gives a great overview of this subject. A food allergy is an immune system response. It occurs when the body mistakes an ingredient in food—usually a protein—as harmful and creates a defense system (antibodies) to fight it. Food allergy symptoms develop when the antibodies are battling the “invading” food. Food intolerance is a digestive system response rather than an immune system response. It occurs when something in a food irritates a person’s digestive system or when a person is unable to properly digest or breakdown the food. Continued on next page
t
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Due Date 2012
Note: Food allergies have become extremely complex due to emulsifiers, preservatives, binders and fillers put into foods.
How did you discover your intolerance? Over the years I had many health problems from skin irritations starting when I was 4-years-old, to always being sick or told I had asthma from teenage years into my adult life. I had been on various antibiotics and medicines from when I was 9 until about my mid 20s. When I entered my 20s I noticed a lot of stomach and GI (gastro intestinal) issues. Everyone just told me it was lifestyle and college food. As I entered into my mid-to-late 20s I noticed health issues weren’t better; it seemed like I was always sick. When I turned 25 I was dropping gas bombs all the time, sometimes over 50 times/day. My hair starting falling out, rashes would break out on my arms, and my face was broken out like a teenager’s. My sister is a doctor and suggested I try the elimination diet. At this point I was already dairy free but not all my issues were resolved. I fought it for a long time. Finally I said ‘screw it’ and became gluten free. From there I continued a variation of the elimination diet to pinpoint certain foods that I thought were bothersome to my digestive system
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such as coconut, hazelnuts, and raw apples and pears. I photographed my healing process and after 12 weeks felt amazing, looked healthy and wasn’t getting sick. The two times I’ve gotten sick since being gluten free, I have been able to fight off the cold on my own without the help of pharmaceuticals. I also have “de-bloated.” When going gluten free I didn’t lose much weight, maybe 3-5 pounds, but I went from a size 7 to a size 2. My sister has a wheat allergy too. The same thing happened to her for de-bloating. If you look at old pictures of us, we never looked overweight, we just looked swollen. Continued on page 9
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Explain the elimination diet or how you figured out what foods you were sensitive to. The elimination diet is pretty much a diet that helps you identify foods you may be intolerant to, have an allergy to, or even an adverse reaction to through the process of elimination over an extended period of time, (this being anywhere from two weeks to two months to see if symptoms subside). Really, it is a lot of trial and error and a daily food log of your diet and how you are feeling through the testing process.
How did your lifestyle change? Living in a ski town, I live a semi-ski bum life, doing a lot of work for trade or working in jobs that provide free food or shift meals. It changed everything from my monthly budget to what jobs I could work. My time management changed as well. I now had to plan and cook 90 percent of my food and increase my food budget. I work on a local farm one day a week in the summer in trade for a full share of food each week. Little things like this allow me to live a healthier lifestyle and save money. What’s been the most difficult part? The most difficult part was deciding to work more at first until I figured out how to eat cheaper. At first it was expensive to change over
until I was able to get my diet dialed. Socializing with friends was hard too. No more PBR after ski runs, no more wings and pizza, if I went to a function I would have to bring all my own food. The first time I went grocery shopping I think I cried. No more highly processed foods that are so cheap and easy to grab on the go. No more $2 burritos, or Eggo waffles with peanut butter and honey on my way up to the hill. As far as my diet, it wasn’t too challenging to keep logs and transition over. I have my personal training certification and used to be a personal trainer with a very strict diet. I also wrote nutrition prescriptions for my clients. I knew how to do it, I knew what it was going to take, and I had the support of my sister and friends. One of my close friends, Jaime, had cut gluten out of her diet at almost the exact same time as me.
What’s been the best part? No more boxed and processed foods! (Well I guess I should say very little). I feel amazing, I feel healthy. For the first time ever I know what it’s like to have a normal bowel movement, and to be able to run without wheezing. OK maybe TMI. Plus, I get to eat so many amazing foods that I would have never discovered otherwise. I cook/ make almost everything
from scratch that I can, from veggie and chicken stocks, to almond milk and dairy/ gluten-free ice creams. The thing is most of it tastes better then the real deal!
You’ve committed to 363 days a year gluten free. How have you done? I originally came up with the name gluten free 363 for my website because it’s my goal to not eat any gluten if possible. Realistically, it’s been a challenge. There is a huge learning curve to becoming gluten free. Plus, the hard part is that everyone is different and everyone reacts differently. A lot of restaurants say they are “gluten free,” but so many of the menu items are cross-contaminated during prep/or cooking, or the staff just is not educated on the matter. I’ve been to so many restaurants where ketchup is used even though it’s not gluten free, or oatmeal or cous cous is listed on the gluten-free menu, or tortilla chips that have been in a fryer that fries gluten are listed as gluten free. I wrote an allergy guide for Teton Thai and TWR this summer, and there are still times that mistakes can happen. It’s really about education. I even have accidently not read a label close enough and made myself sick. I think this next year 363 days will be more realistic now that I have a stronger education on the matter.
Continued on page 11
Almond milk how to’s Almond milk is so easy to make, better for you, free of preservatives and cheaper by more than half the cost! Plus, it tastes better and you can flavor it however you would like. The average almond milk sold on the shelf has 12-15 ingredients in it. Making your own at home will have anywhere from 2 to 7 ingredients, and I bet you will be able to pronounce everything you put into yours. How to make almond milk: • Soak 1 cup of almonds in a sealable jar for 24-48 hours • After soaking, rinse the almonds • Blend 1/4 cup almonds to 3/4-1 cup of water • Fllavor to taste • For richer flavor use less water, for lighter flavor use more water • Strain the almond milk through a strainer or cheese cloth (there will be almond pulp left over, you can make excellent almond pulp crackers or, flat bread with this. Flavoring Ideas: Honey, agave syrup, dates, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, coconut oil, rose, pomegranate or allspice. My favorite is two dates, two tablespoons honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and one teaspoon vanilla. 9
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Continued from page 9
Why did you start the blog? I knew that I needed to get healthy, and I wanted to provide accurate information on the matter to others. There is SO much information out there, but a lot of it is scattered. After photographing my healing process I wanted to share it with others, because it changed my world in the service and food and beverage industry. Plus, I wanted to share recipes and ideas that inspire me with others.
Is cooking difficult? No, I love it. For me it’s a way
to relax, step away from everything for a minute and immerse myself into a different world. Plus, working on the farm one day a week and growing my own food in my own garden adds so much more meaning to what I am doing. What’s your favorite meal? I’m not going to lie, I love pizza and beer. There is nothing better to me then a homemade crust with rosemary and herbs, loaded up with fresh veggies, some elk meat and a gluten-free beer on the side. Recently I made stuffed squash flowers dipped in a gluten freebeer and flour, stuffed with daiya allergy-free cheese, and it
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was amazing (the closest thing to a mozzarella stick I’ve had in years).
It seems like more people are gluten free these days. Is this because more people are aware or is there more gluten in products and food? Or is it something else? I think it’s becoming more understood in the medical world and the physical. It’s a very hard thing to pinpoint because it’s linked to over 250 diseases, disorders and symptoms. Over the span of my life I had over eight major health issues. Western medicine always treated the symptom, not the body as a whole. Diet can affect so much of what’s going on, you just have to listen to what your body is telling you. As a kid doctors told me I was allergic to soaps and toothpaste. Little did I know it was an adverse reaction to barley! There was a huge shift in America as far as diet when grains were implemented. Implementing large consumption of grains such as wheat, barley, and oats help with starvation and keeps you full. Everything in moderation
is kind of my motto (within reason). Obviously, I’m not going to eat gluten in moderation. But hopefully you get what I’m saying. Also, a lot of genetic modifications have changed the world of food, and also people’s reactions to it. If you look at the history of GMO in wheat, soy and corn, the number of allergies is exponentially higher than before GMOs. I’m not sure what the answer is here, but something is happening in the world of food that I don’t think we quite understand yet.
Has it gotten easier to find gluten-free products? Gluten-free products are in abundance now. It seems like every day I am finding a new product to review and try. I am actually slightly grateful I didn’t find out 10 years ago that I have a gluten intolerance. I think it would have been MUCH harder back then. Some of my favorite packaged products are Pamela’s chocolate chunk cookies, Namaste’s spice cake, and larabars. Bob’s Red Mill also has a great line of gluten-free products.
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Fitness
training much more than lifting weights Ken Levy / H&W Staff
G
etting fit takes more than just weight lifting, and your best chance of success is working with a trainer, said Debbie Rasmussen, who owns Anytime Fitness in Driggs with husband Greg. “Ninety percent of people who join a gym without a trainer never accomplish their goals,” she said. “Often it’s because of a lack of motivation, but more often than not they just don’t know how to train their bodies properly.” On the other hand, 85 percent of those who hire a trainer do meet their goals, she said. The only reason the other 15 percent don’t is that they fail to do the things they’re supposed to once they leave the gym. A good, personal training program caters to the needs and goals of the individual. Members at Anytime Fitness get two free sessions with a trainer. The first is spent assessing goals and eating habits. “Each member [who] desires one is given a nutrition program that will help them accomplish their goals,” said Rasmussen. “During the second session, the client is taken out onto the gym floor and given an introduction to training that will show them how to train their body according to what they want to accomplish.” It begins with a verbal understand12
ing of what the client wants to accomplish, followed by the necessary measurements to track their progress toward that goal. “Each person has individual needs,” she said. “Goals range from building muscle
to losing fat to increasing heart health, and all of them are trained differently using different equipment.” Even training for the same sport, individuals would train differently based on where they
are now, said Rasmussen. One skier may need to focus on endurance while another may need to concentrate more on core strength, while still another needs more Continued on next page
Be ready for your next adventure! Above: Randi Reiley kicks into gear on a stationary bike at Anytime Fitness. Left: Randi Reiley leans into the fly machine at Anytime Fitness.
Continued from previous page
lower body strength. Those looking to lose weight and tone up need to stick to a controlled but easy-to-follow diet plan, she said. Weight training is essential for two reasons: Weight resistance is necessary for muscle development and tone and, while cardio boosts weight loss more in the here and now, the metabolism boost of cardio only lasts a few hours, said Rasmussen. “With weight training, the boost to the metabolism lasts about 72 hours. All three components—diet, cardio and weight training—properly administered, are important to a successful program.” A beginner should plan on weight training 3-4 days a week for about 45 minutes each. Cardio should be done 4-5 days a week. “Schedule a time for your exercise and schedule your other events around it,” Rasmussen said. “It will do you no good to have all the time
in the world for other events if you lack the health to enjoy them and, while that may not be a problem now, eventually it catches up to all of us.” Rasmussen also offered the following advice for those new or recent to conditioning: • Be consistent. Don’t start and stop over and over. • Set 3-4 days at set times that you are going to go to the gym and be there. • Don’t overdo it. Most people come to the gym with lofty expectations. The process of building the body you want takes time. “Going everyday is unrealistic,” she said. “Your body will get tired and you’ll quit. Set reasonable goals and work toward them consistently.” Anytime Fitness is always open, and membership includes use of any of its clubs worldwide after a 30-day processing period. Find them in Driggs at 1251 Arrowhead Plaza. Phone (208) 354-9675.
David R. Shlim, MD is one of the most experienced travel medicine physicians in the world. He offers: • Pre–travel advice and immunizations • Advice for high altitude expeditions • Diagnosis and treatment of travel-related diseases Located at the base of the Teton Pass in Wilson Medical Center Consultation by appointment only. Call 307.733.5676
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Erica J Burns Licensed Professional Counselor/Life Coach
D
o you struggle with chronic physical pain, anxiety or panic attacks? Have you been told or do you wonder if you have the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, aka PTSD?
New remedies for chronic pain, trauma, anxiety and other physical and mental ailments
Have you had an experience such as a car accident, a close call with something such as drowning or falling, been attacked by someone or something, been in a war zone, experienced a natural disaster such as an earthquake, flood or fire, witnessed someone else being harmed, abused or even tortured, been repeatedly abused yourself either in childhood or as an adult, find yourself having repetitive accidents or injuries? If you have had any of these experiences you may struggle with a variety of physical and/or emotional symptoms that may seem related or even completely unrelated to the incident. For example, if you survived a serious automobile accident, you may feel fear or anxiety every time you get in a car. Or you may suffer from some physical syndrome such as chronic head, neck or back pain, irritable bowel syndrome, an autoimmune disease or a persistent feeling of needing to fight or flee even when there is nothing to fear.
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Fortunately, today there is more and more research and treatment available to help people who have had these experiences and subsequently suffer with these physical problems. Often medications
are prescribed and they are sometimes very necessary, but there are additional treatments available including holistic mind-body-heart-spirit methods such as guided imagery, meditation and energy psychology; pain and inflammation lowering food plans; body-focused therapies such as massage therapy, acupuncture and biofeedback. One of the newer modalities available to help people with these issues is something called Somatic Experiencing. Peter Levine, who holds a PhD. in both medical biophysics and psychology, spent 35 years studying stress and trauma before he developed the Somatic Experiencing modality for working with people. The general idea behind Somatic Experiencing (SE) is that we suffer from these symptoms because our nervous system has become dysregulated as a result of our painful or traumatic life experiences. Dr. Levine discovered that animals in the wild did not suffer from the after effects of traumatic events as do humans, and, when he looked further into this phenomenon, he learned that animals have a natural way of completing the experience of threat or injury/ attack. We humans, on the other hand, use our thinking brain to override or inhibit these natural behaviors and as a result, we sometimes get stuck. When we do this, it is as if we are frozen in the time that the trauma occurred. So our bodies act as if we are still experiencing the trauma or the abuse. We may be easily startled, or we can’t sleep, or feel fear or panic for no apparent reason. This ongoing stress in the nervous system can then lead to chronic physical illnesses or pain. So how does Somatic Experiencing work?
When we are threatened, an enormous amount of energy is mobilized and if we Continued on next page
sense of safety and mastery over their environment. are overwhelmed or unable Finally, those self-protecto escape or fight off the tive behaviors that they threat, then that energy gets were unable to complete locked down in the system. during the event are done Somatic Experiencing in slow motion, enabling enables humans to use both the reptilian part of the their intellectual abilities brain to process a differas well as their primitive ent outcome from what animal instincts to discharge occurred in the original those high levels of energy Erica Burns event. Individuals often arousal in the body. This feel a great sense of relief is accomplished in several ways. Often and safety after doing this. when one has survived a difficult experi-
Continued from previous page
ence, even though they can express an emotion of anxiety or stress, they are unaware of their bodily sensations. When they begin to be able to identify these physical feelings, they have begun to melt the frozen response to trauma and this can be a huge step toward beginning to re-regulate the nervous system. In addition, people have often lost a healthy sense of boundaries. Using SE, they can be helped to physically restore a
How is Somatic Experiencing different from more traditional ways of managing these symptoms?
Unlike traditional psychotherapy for helping people to heal from past traumatic experiences, Somatic Experiencing uses the person’s awareness of their bodily sensations to “renegotiate” and heal their history rather than reliving (by retelling the story) the original event. SE uses the person’s innate instinctual
capacity for self-regulation instead of trying to heal by using one’s intellectual understanding of events. Also, SE works in a gradual, titrated way with the person so that survival energies can be experienced safely and without overwhelming and re-traumatizing the nervous system. So if you struggle with anxiety, sleep disturbances, chronic pain, post traumatic stress disorder and other stress related physical problems, please be aware that in addition to seeing your medical doctor to rule out any serious medical problems, you may find some relief with the help of some of the new and exciting treatments now available to help you with your symptoms. Erica J. Burns, M.A. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with advanced training in Imago Relationship Therapy, Somatic Experiencing and career counseling. She has offices in Driggs and Jackson and is available for sessions by telephone or Skype. She also does life, relationship and career coaching with people in other states. Her website is ericajburns.com. She can be reached at (208) 456-3086 or (307) 734-5352.
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young adults should know about managing their health care (ARA) - Despite perceptions that young adults consider themselves young and invincible, the majority of Americans aged 18 to 26 are taking an active role in maintaining their health. Two out of three young adults have a usual source of health care, and most are seeing a physician at least once a year for wellness exams and other preventive services, according to a nationwide poll conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of the American Academy of Family Physicians
(AAFP). “Young adults seem to understand the correlation between having an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician and creating a healthy future,” says Dr. Roland Goertz, president of the AAFP. “But unfortunately, when it comes to managing their health, they, like many others, often lack the experience or desire to navigate the complex health care system.” The health care reform law now enables young adults,
up to age 26, to be covered under their parent or guardian’s insurance plan.
ready to provide the care they need, when and where they need it.”
“As more provisions of health care reform become effective, such as when restrictions related to pre-existing conditions are lifted, even more young adults will have access to health care,” Goertz says. “Family physicians stand
As more young people take advantage of this benefit, the AAFP offers the following tips to help them make the most of their health care interactions. Continued on next page
WHEN IS
N O I S S E R P E TEENAGAEN AD PASSING PHASE? MORE TH
Do you recognize the signs of suicide in your friends? The key to prevention is for everyone to know the warning signs and what to do for help. Talk to our trained professionals right here in Teton Valley!
Teton Valley Mental Health Coalition offers free or subsidized counseling services to those who can not afford it www.tetonvalleymentalhealth.com Brought to you by Teton Valley Mental Health Center 16
National Hotline 1.800.273.talk.
Continued from previous page
1.
Establish a relationship with a family physician who will know you and your health history.
Family physicians provide comprehensive care to people of all ages—ranging from preventive services to the diagnosis and treatment of acute illness and chronic conditions. They also treat depression and other mental health conditions. Most importantly, family physicians make it convenient for patients to get the care they need. Seventy-three percent offer same-day appointments, nearly half offer early morning and evening appointments, and 27 percent communicate with patients via email.
These services are all parts of the patient-centered medical home model of care. Under this model, family physicians coordinate care across all settings, including doctors’ offices, hospitals and many other services that make up our complex and confusing health care system. Key medical home technologies, such as electronic health records, enable health care professionals to communicate with one another and stay updated on mutual patients’ medical conditions and courses of treatment. This eliminates duplication, lowers costs and improves quality and patient satisfaction.
2.
Be open and honest with your doctor.
Taking an active role
in your health care can help you get the best care possible. Be sure to disclose any current and past health care issues or concerns. It’s important to share any information you have, even if you’re embarrassed.
3.
Ask questions. Don’t
be afraid to speak up if you have questions or concerns. It’s important to let your doctor know if you don’t understand something. If you have questions before your appointment, write them down and ask them during the exam. Be sure to write down the most important questions first to make sure they get answered, and tell your doctor when you need more time to talk.
4.
Play an active role in your medical decision making.
Research shows that patients who are more involved with their care tend to get better results. You have a say in your medical treatment. If you aren’t comfortable with a prescribed course of treatment—like taking medicine, scheduling a test or scheduling an appointment with a specialist—let your doctor know. Patients and doctors who share decision making are more likely to identify treatment plans they can both agree on.
5.
Make sure your personal doctor is in charge of your care.
This is especially important if you have many health Continued on page 31
Martin Trott, MD, FACS Board Certified ENT
Trained at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation Treating ear, nose, throat and allergy problems for adults and children Specializing in - Throat & sinus disorders - Chronic ear infections - Allergy testing & treatment - Tonsils, adenoids & throat surgery - Head & neck cancer
St John’s
Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy View St. John’s quality statistics, including our low infection rate data, at tetonhospital.org/quality
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ent.tetonhospital.org
555 E. Broadway, St. 224 17
Your
health evolution revolution
Courtesy photo
Cate Stillman, owner of yogahealer.
Cate Stillman yogahealer.com
Y
esterday, my mom and I were talking about her wellness game plan for aging. “Who is your wellness provider?” “What do you mean, wellness provider?” she responds. “You know, someone who you’ve selected, interviewed, and deeply trust with your health evolution as you age.” “Oh, it’s you,” she responds. Most of us don’t think in 18
terms of our health evolution or have a wellness provider who can ensure we’re on the right path. Our culture holds the perspective that as you age, your body and mind fall apart. Our medical culture strongly encourages us to invest our health dollars in the early detection of disease. While screening tests are often helpful, they can also be harmful. Aside from being expensive, they introduce the potential for unnecessary procedures (like exploratory surgery), and promote a disconnect and fear of your
body (you don’t know what is lurking inside you!) The term disease prevention itself imposes limitation.
Check out the box below to see what side you are falling on. Continued on next page
Dwayne M. Hansen, Continued from previous page
Ask yourself: • What are you doing on a daily basis to avoid the diseases of your ancestors? • Who are your wellness providers? These are the people who know you, and who motivates you to make better daily choices. Your wellness providers are ensuring you don’t create an internal environment that enables the diseases of your ancestors to take root. • What are your health evolution goals this month? You know—the food in our grocery stores is not like food of yore. It’s genetically modified, chemical-laced and, unless you’re vegan or locavore, full of pharmaceuticals. If you aren’t taking a proactive empowering attitude to your aging process, this is your wake up call. Here are 5 ways to jump-start your health evolution: • Find a wellness provider and invest in your wellness. • Wake up and move your body before eating. • Eat dinner early. • Drink only water between your 2-3 meals daily. • Do a seasonal detox every spring and fall. Visit Cate’s vibrant wellness blog at yogahealer.com, or sign up for her local Yogidetox in Driggs Oct. 9-30.
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Why
do I feel so uneasy? Bridget Lyons Certified Anusara Yoga Instructor and Co-Owner of YogaTejas
F
all is the season when we mountain people turn inward. As the growing season slows down, so do we. We trade our busy “pack-it-all-in” summer attitudes for a little more structure and space for contemplation. We spend more time in our houses, reorganizing our physical space to reflect the darker season ahead. And we turn to practices that help to ground us.
Or, we should, anyway… The reality is that many people struggle with anxiety in the fall. Our summers here are so short that nearly everyone gets overextended in July and August. We overbook ourselves with cookouts and festivals right into September—when we realize that there are only a few weeks to go before the snow flies and there are all those hikes we have yet to do! Add to that the hot, dry and windy weather of early fall, back-to-school season for many, and this year’s ongoing financial uncertainty and you have THE recipe for anxiety.
Anxiety is a feeling of uneasiness, dread and worry. When I am anxious, I feel ungrounded, as though I don’t know where I live or what is important to me. I sense a lack of resources, time and energy. When I make the time to
20
do something, I can’t get focused. Sleep is difficult. And to top it off, a lot of folks tend to gain weight when they are anxious. It’s hard to enjoy life with all of those symptoms going on! So … what do you do? Ground. Root. Reconnect. But how? Here are a few simple tips:
1
Establish routine in your days. Get up in the morning at about the same time each day—ideally before or at the sunrise—and go to bed by 10 p.m. Eat three healthy meals at roughly the same time each day.
2
Spend 5-10 minutes a day sitting and watching the world—interior or exterior. Really! If you have a meditation practice and can do that, terrific. But even just sitting and watching the autumn leaves blow in the wind or your dog chasing bugs can be incredibly centering.
3
Spend 10-20 minutes a day doing yoga. Yes, it really is grounding. If you are familiar with yoga, do your standing poses. Do some hip openers and a few seated poses with your legs firmly connected to the earth. Within minutes you’ll experience change. Unfamiliar with yoga? Take a class! Find free videos online! Buy a book! Or simply stand on your feet and move your body in new ways—you may discover poses on your own.
YogaTejas is running a Beginners’ Yoga Series Oct. 9-13 (Sunday-Thursday) 5:30-7 p.m. as well as an ongoing Basics class on Wednesdays 7-8:30 p.m. Check out their full class schedule at.yogatejas.com
4
Breathe. Never underestimate the power of remembering that your breath keeps you alive. Listen to it. Revere it. Thank it. Chances are your breath will slow down and deepen. Before you know it, you’ll feel more grounded and less anxious. Autumn in the Tetons is a gift. Enjoy every moment you can by reconnecting to yourself and your environment. Find people to support you in this effort.
Health Care for the Entire Family
Kristen Coburn, Family Nurse Practitioner Lis Gammelin, Physician Assistant-Certified Anne O’Malley Neuhaus, Family Nurse Practitioner With Board Certified Pediatricians every Tuesday & Friday James R. Little, MD Elizabeth W. Ridgway, MD Travis Riddell, MD Meet our healthcare team at www.tvhcare.org Open Monday – Thursday 9am – 6 pm • Fridays 9am – 12 pm 252 South Main, Victor
You take care of them.
Providing exceptional and compassionate care in Teton Valley We are a leading group of dedicated board certified physicians, certified midwives, and nurse practitioners. We provide a wide range of services, including: • high and low risk obstetrics and gynecology, • female urinary incontinence, • infertility, • endometrial ablation, and • various methods of birth control. We also offer services for pelvic reconstruction & laparoscopic surgery. We are currently accepting new patients.
(307) 734-1005 Maura Lofaro, MD, FACOG Shannon Roberts, MD, FACOG Christina Moran, C-FNP Jennifer Zeer, CNM, WHNP
We’re Family (208) 354-6307
We’ll take care of you.
All major insurances accepted.
21
Kid s bathroom Help kids master their bathroom behaviors (ARA) - Encouraging kids to practice good bathroom behaviors is not always an easy task. In fact, it’s not just kids who need a reminder to wash their hands. A recent study commissioned by Delta Faucet Company revealed that one in five adults neglects to wash their hands every time they use the bathroom; even fewer parents with kids under the age of 12 consistently wash their hands every time. This means it’s extra important for parents to pay attention to their own habits so they are setting a good example. Victoria Pericon, family lifestyle expert, Delta Faucet spokesperson, and editor of SavvyMommy.com, is raising four kids in bustling New York City. She shares some insight and tips for getting kids to follow the rules of the bathroom.
22
Convenience is key Bathroom tasks should be easy for a child to accomplish. Make sure kids have the right tools appropriate for their size and motor skills to make certain that bathroom learning is both safe and intuitive. According to the study from Delta Faucet, more than 50 percent of parents with children under the age of 12 provide a step stool near the sink to help kids reach the faucet. Ensuring that kids can easily reach is the first step toward teaching them to wash their hands. Faucets that are easy to operate can also help to get the job done. Touch-activated or hands-free faucets for the bathroom help little hands reach the water, even if the handles are too far away. These types of faucets offer
additional benefits any parent can appreciate, including automatic water shutoff when the water is left running—a perfect solution for forgetful children. With both types of electronically activated faucets, parents can also set the temperature manually with the handle so that when the faucet is tapped or waved on, the water flows at a comfortable temperature. “Parents know that sometimes kids skip washing their hands after going to the bathroom if it seems too challenging,” says Pericon. “Having a stool handy, along with a highly reactive faucet that’s easy to use, can enable independence and make hand washing easier to accomplish, even when parents aren’t around.” Continued on next page
Continued from previous page
Make it fun Getting clean may not sound like fun to a tot, but there are plenty of helpful tools and toys on the market designed to make it so. Cartoon character-inspired soaps, including some that transfer a stamp to the hand when the pump is depressed, add an element of fun to the process and are designed to make certain kids don’t forget to use soap when they’re washing. Pericon also recommends teaching children to sing a song while they wash up to remind them to spend enough time lathering at the sink. When the song is over, it’s time to rinse. “Regardless of the method or tool parents choose, helping
kids establish good bathroom habits is all about creating a routine that is exciting and easy to follow,” says Pericon. This tactic, according to Pericon, works just as effectively with parents who may need an occasional reminder to wash. Rather than brightly colored soaps and sponges, for the master bathroom, add things you like near the sink, like fragrant soaps and fancy towels, to make the hand washing experience feel like less of a chore.
Reward with praise Like all of us, children want to know when they do a good job. Praising them when they follow the bathroom rules, either with a hug, point system, or positive comment,
will encourage them to continue their good behavior. It’s also important to continue to reward them for washing their hands, even outside the bathroom setting, to reinforce the habit. Other opportunities to wash hands include before sitting down for a meal and after coming in from outside playtime.
“One of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others is keeping our hands clean,” adds Pericon. “Establishing good behavior early is the key to making the lessons we teach as parents stick. From bathroom habits to everyday manners, kids will quickly learn that following the rules is simple and fun.”
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23
Two community organizations join forces to
Promote mental health TVN Staff
T
he coming months will bring several events to Teton Valley related to mental health promotion and suicide prevention, thanks to the combined efforts of the Teton Valley Mental Health Coalition and the Suicide Prevention Task Force. This month’s Take 5 to Save Lives walk will be followed by several opportunities throughout the year to participate in related practical skills trainings. One such training is called safeTALK, which stands for Suicide Alertness for Everyone. SafeTALK is a nationally acclaimed program, about three hours long, which prepares anyone over the age of 15 to identify persons with thoughts of suicide and connect them to local suicide first-aid resources and intervention caregivers. It is based on the premise that most people with thoughts of suicide invite help to stay safe in some way. SafeTALK trains “suicide alert helpers” to recognize these opportunities and use them to effectively support that desire to stay safe. Powerful video clips illustrate both non-alert and alert responses, and discussion and practice help stimulate learning. It is designed to be
24
useful for all community members. Upcoming safeTALK training dates will be announced in local papers and other media. Three Teton Valley residents—Martha Doyle, Sarah Dunn and Adam Williamson—have been trained in providing safeTALKS, thanks to partnerships with the Jackson-based Youth Depression Prevention & Mental Health Initiative and a grant from the Peter and Susan Ordway Foundation. The mission of the Teton Valley Mental Health Coalition is to promote mental wellness in Teton Valley through education, community action and the coordination of resources. Among its many programs and services, Coalition members who are licensed professional counselors provide subsidized counseling services to those in need, regardless of ability to pay. The Coalition also offers a free support group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. More information about the Coalition’s activities may be found on its website, tetonvalleymentalhealth. com, or by contacting co-chairs Adam Williamson at (208) 705-7898 or adamwilliamson02@hotmail. Continued on next page
The mission of the
Teton Valley Mental Health Coalition is to promote mental wellness in Teton Valley through education, community action and the coordination of resources.
The mission of the
Suicide Prevention Task Force
is to develop and implement a strategic and proactive suicide prevention and response plan in Teton County, Idaho.
Continued from previous page
Healthy Bodies Healthy Smiles Healthy Minds
com and Sarah Dunn at (208)-201-5686 or sarahsdunn@gmail.com. The mission of the Suicide Prevention Task Force is to develop and implement a strategic and proactive suicide prevention and response plan in Teton County, Idaho. It is currently working to develop this plan in coordination with the many sectors of our community that play a role in suicide prevention and recovery, including the school system, law enforcement, religious groups, the mental health, social service and medical
Owens Orthodontics
communities and the community at large, in consultation with regional and national suicide prevention experts. The Task Force may be contacted through its Project Coordinator, Sarah Dunn, whose contact information is above.
Local Specialists in Orthodontics and the Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment of Dental and Facial Irregularities
Broulim’s Pharmacy, serving your needs in Teton Valley
354-0057
Open 9am-6pm, M-F 9am-5pm, Sat
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Treatment for Children, Adolescents and Adults.
Owens Orthodontics
Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics Dr. S. Ed Owens, DDS, MSD • Dr. Shannon E. Owens DDS, MS
14 E. Little Driggs • 354-8808 25
What’s that?
10 ways to prevent hearing loss
(ARA) - Hearing loss affects more than 34 million Americans. If detected early, it may be a preventable chronic disease. Here are 10 ways to help prevent, delay or reduce the extent of hearing loss.
1
26
Noise exposure. Are you one of the more than 22 million American workers exposed to excessive levels of noise in the workplace? Are you one of those listening to iPods, shooting firearms, riding motorbikes, or working with lawn and garden tools? These devices are causing hearing loss at alarmingly high rates. Most noise is painless,
progressive, permanent and preventable. Noise exposure is the second most common cause of hearing loss worldwide and is the most preventable. You should wear hearing protectors or avoid exposure to loud sounds. Turn down the volume and reduce the length of time you listen to your iPod or mp3 player. Studies show that people who wear noise canceling or noise reduction earphones with iPod or mp3 players typically listen to music at safer levels.
2
Cotton swabs. Why take a chance on making matters worse? Cotton swabs and ear candling are unhealthy practices to remove earwax, to clean or scratch your ear canals. Don’t use cotton swabs to clean inside your ear canal. It can push the earwax in further and you could puncture your eardrum. Continued on page 29
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27
No Bones About it
Rediscover your active lifestyle. Consider St. John’s first for the knee, hip or shoulder replacement surgery you need. St. John’s Center of Excellence meets the stringent standards of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons Jackson Hole’s fellowship-trained specialists are renowned for their experience and credentials Nursing compassion and excellence make St. John’s a top choice in the region State-of-the-art technology for optimal outcomes -- including the area’s only surgical GPS navigation equipment
Visit tetonhospital.org/coe or call 888 739 7499 for more information
center of
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St John’s
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View St. John’s quality statistics, including our low infection rate data, at tetonhospital.org/quality
28
Continued from page 26
3
Smoking. Smoking tobacco and second-hand smoke can contribute to hearing loss. Studies suggest that chronic nicotine exposure impairs the brain’s ability to “hear� and interpret sound. Along with the other reasons to stop smoking, you can reduce your likelihood of greater hearing loss if you quit or stay out of smoky places.
4
Diabetes. Diabetics are twice as likely to have hearing loss. Eating a healthy diet, maintaining proper weight and daily exercise can help you avoid type 2 diabetes.
5
Alcohol. Too much alcohol can contribute to permanent hearing loss. Recently, researchers found that drinking 2 beers in a half an hour can cause temporary hearing loss for up to 16 hours.
6
Solvents. Avoid organic solvents. Organic solvents (such as styrene and toluene) are commonly found in paints, lacquers and industrial printing inks. Studies have shown that these substances have a negative effect on your hearing.
7
Medications. There are at least 96 different drugs that may cause permanent or temporary hearing loss. When you stop taking aspirin and aspirin-containing drugs, your hearing may come back. Excessive use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), cisplatin (a cancer drug) and erectile dysfunction drugs can also cause hearing loss.
8
Antioxidants. Antioxidants and vitamin supplements may help prevent hearing loss. Hearing loss due to aging may be prevented with a combination of antioxidants, mineral and vitamin supplements such as folic acid and magnesium. A healthy diet of fruits and vegetables and meats may protect hearing in later life.
9
Your heart. Maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. There is a strong correlation between heart health and good hearing. Newly published reports show that a healthy cardiovascular system increases the likelihood of maintaining hearing, particularly among older adults.
10
See an audiologist. If you think you may have hearing loss, an audiologist will test, monitor and offer solutions to help you function better. An audiologist is a licensed health care provider who is trained to diagnose and manage your loss, as well as offer preventative measures. To find an audiologist in your area go to audiologyawareness.com or call (888) 833-EARS (3277).
29
30
Reporting sexual assault is a personal decision.
Now there are options to make the decision easier. Blind Reporting
Today individuals age 18 and over can receive both a medical and forensic exam in the Teton Valley Hospital Emergency Room without reporting to law enforcement. Evidence will be collected by a trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner and preserved for up to 1 year.
Time
Blind Reporting provides time to think about whether or not reporting to law enforcement is right for you. It assures the physical evidence associated with the assault is collected and stored for up to 1 year or until you are ready to report.
Cost
Continued from page 17
health problems or are in a hospital. Make sure that all members of your health care team know about all prescriptions and over-thecounter medicines you are taking, including dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs. Also, make sure your doctor knows about any allergies and adverse reactions you’ve had.
6.
Understand your medical bills and keep medical paperwork organized.
Learn to read and understand medical bills and explanations of benefits to know
what’s covered, what’s not covered, and why. Consolidate your medical care, health history and medical records, and organize your medical paperwork so you can review it easily if questions arise. Keep your medical receipts if you have a health savings account; you may be need to show them for tax purposes. For more information about family physicians and tips for managing your health care, visit familydoctor.org/smartpatientguide.
The forensic exam is paid by the Idaho Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund. Family Safety Network advocates will help you apply.
Support Reporting is often delayed because of fear. Many worry about disclosing details about the crime and how this will affect them personally. Family Safety Network victim advocates are available to help explain the options and offer resources to begin healing.
Call us for more information or to talk about options: Family Safety Network 354 -SAFE hotline 354 -8057 office Teton Valley Hospital
354 -2383 nurse’s station
This project was supported by Grant No. 2010-WR-AX-0061 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.
31
Frankenfoods What you need to know about genetically modified foods
(ARA)
I
f you’ve ever eaten canned soup, sipped soda or chewed sugarless gum, chances are you’ve eaten something that’s been genetically modified, also called GMO. Even when you cook at home, GMOs are in
the ingredients we use. It’s hard to believe, but GMOs are in almost everything we eat—according to the Grocery Manufacturer’s Association, 80 percent of our processed food is genetically modified, unless it is certified organic.
Just what does this mean? Genetically modified organisms or GMOs are organisms that have been created through the gene-splicing techniques of biotechnology. This relatively new science allows DNA from one species to
as “frankenfoods” for this reason. For instance, a plant can be engineered to become resistant to a pesticide, or even contain its own pesticides within the plant cells, so that the fields can be sprayed with the chemical and the crops will not die along with weeds. be snipped and inserted into another species in a laboratory to create specific characteristics and new species that do not occur in nature. You may have heard them referred to
So, what does this mean to you and your family? The truth is, we really don’t know yet. The science has not been around long enough for studies to show the long-term health effects that consuming Continued on next page
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TOTAL CLINICAL CARE FOR YOU!
Visit Family Practice Physicians and healthcare professionals specially trained to guide you through every stage of life. Specialists are available to help you with specific health conditions. • Fulltime Orthopedics • Ear Nose and Throat • General Surgery • Gynecology
• Neurology • Pain Management • Urology
All of our physicians are Board Certified Open Every Day of the Week! Monday – Friday 9am – 6 pm • Saturday and Sunday 11am – 4pm 23 North 1st East, Driggs
We’re Family 354-2302
32
Continued from previous page
GMO foods might have. “From a nutrition perspective it’s not hard to connect the dots from GMO crops to health issues. We have exponential increases in digestive issues, allergies and autoimmune diseases today and GMO crops are found in so many of the foods and food products (soy, corn) implicated in these health issues,” says registered dietician Ashley Koff. “This is enough for at least 30 other countries to enforce significant restrictions or outright bans on GMOs because they are not considered proven safe. What we do know is that anyone eating GMOs is, in effect, a guinea pig in a very large health experiment.” More and more, people are demanding transparency about what is in the foods they eat. One problem is that the Food and Drug Administration does not require that companies disclose if they contain GMOs, so it can be hard to tell which products have them and which do not.
Want to avoid GMOs?
1 Learn more
about GMOs at nongmoproject.org.
2 Look for products
that have the Non-GMO Project Verified Seal. This seal means that a product has been produced according to rigorous best practices for GMO avoidance and evaluated against strict standards. Companies such as Nature’s Path, an early supporter and board member of the Non-GMO Project, have products independently
Introducing
tested for GMOs in order to be able to bear the seal—in fact, they are the brand with the most Non-GMO Project verified products.
make your grocery shopping lists. You can find the guide at www. nongmoshoppingguide. com, and you can download it to take with you to the market.
3 Read labels. The
government law does not allow genetic engineering to be used in organic production or processing.
most common GMO ingredients are non-organic soy, canola, corn and now beet sugar, including all of their derivatives like corn oil, corn syrup, soy protein, soy sauce and canola oil. Avoid products that contain these ingredients unless they are certified organic, as it is highly probable they are GMO.
4 Use the Non-GMO shopping guide to
5 Go organic. U.S.
If you are concerned about what is in the food that you feed to your family, now is the time to learn more about GMOs and look for products that do not contain them. With a little time and effort, you can feel peace of mind that you are making the best choices for your family.
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33
pill
it ’s such a Up to 70 per cent of women using hormonal birth contr ol would change something about it. And of those women, 43 per cent would change having to tak e it every day.
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In busy modern age, women often push one important health decision aside (ARA) t’s no surprise that with everything women in their 20s and 30s today have on their plates—busy careers, relationships, family— something is bound to fall to the bottom of their list.
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221027
A new survey from Harris Interactive on behalf of Merck among 2,000 U.S. women ages 20 to 39 found that 72 percent of women refuse to settle for anything less than what truly makes
Erica J Burns
them happy. But the survey also uncovered that women may be not be taking the same initiative when it comes to their birth control. Up to 70 percent of women using hormonal birth control would change Continued on next page
MA, LPC, LAT
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But should it be their birth control?
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So la meé
TRANSFORMATION OF THE MIND, BODY & SPIRIT www.energyheals.net
Continued from previous page
something about it. And of those women, 43 percent would change having to take it every day. Given this disconnect between the way women approach their birth control and the take-charge attitude they have in the rest of their lives, it’s important for women to know that whatever stage of life they’re in, they don’t need to settle—there are options. To encourage women to get real about their health, Merck has teamed up with actress JoAnna Garcia Swisher to launch Let’s Go There, a national campaign celebrating women’s “don’t settle” mindset and encouraging them to talk to their health care provider about the full range of birth control methods available. “As the daughter of an OB/GYN, I learned from an early age the importance of educating myself to better understand my health options,” says Garcia Swisher. “I am excited to partner with Merck on Let’s Go There to encourage other women to
take charge of all aspects of your life, whether career or relationships, or most importantly—your health. Today, with all the different birth control options available, it’s important to take time to talk to your health care provider about what method best fits your lifestyle.” Even before you step into the doctor’s office, you can start thinking about your needs and lifestyle. Are you busy and often on the go? Have there been times you have forgotten to take your birth control? What aspects of your previous birth control worked and didn’t work for you? Along with other medical questions, these are lifestyle discussions that will help you and your health care provider decide the birth control method that’s right for you. Women are invited to join the Let’s Go There community by visiting the campaign’s Facebook page at facebook. com/letsgothere where they can access tips and tools on life and love, and how to prioritize this important health decision.
JoAnna Garcia Swisher
at Wilson Medical Center
Photo courtesy ARA
Comprehensive Cancer Care
Routine Medical Care Pain Management
Anna L. Schwartz PhD, FNP 5235 HHR Ranch Rd • 733-2855 Accepting all insurance providers
Certified Practitioner of Matrix Energetics® Advanced Certified Practitioner of Integrated Energy Therapy® Private Office in Driggs, Idaho Rebecca Franklin (208) 201-3143 www.spiralenergetics.com
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What
is physical therapy? Can it help me? Christi Lundberg Physical therapist
D
o you have back, neck, knee, or shoulder pain? Do you have poor balance? Do you have difficulty performing home, work, or sports activities because of pain, stiffness, or weakness? Have your had a recent orthopedic surgery? If you have any of these problems (or others listed below), physical therapy may be great for you!
What is Physical Therapy? Web MD defines physical therapy as “a type of treatment you may need when health problems make it hard to move around and do everyday tasks. It helps you move better and may relieve pain. It also helps improve or restore your physical function and your fitness level.” Physical therapists are experts. Physical therapy doesn’t just treat your problem, but it helps to resolve the underlying CAUSE of a movement or pain problem.
When Should You see a Physical Therapist? Conditions that are best helped by physical therapy include: back and neck pain, joint pain or stiffness (shoulders, hips, knees, elbows, hand/wrists, ankles/ feet, TMJ), headaches, inflammation, weakness, muscle spasms, difficulty walking, or decreased ability to perform daily tasks. Other specific diseases that can be helped by physical therapy are: arthritis, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, COPD, diabetes— 36
and many others. It is never too late to see a physical therapist, but sooner is better. The longer an injury or problem persists, the more pain or bad movement patterns develop, which can cause an injury to not improve or actually worsen. Back or neck pain is especially easier to treat right away, as a physical therapist can teach you movement and resting positions, and home treatments that may help you improve quickly. Ankle or knee sprains also respond well to physical therapy that is started as soon as possible. With chronic pain or diseases, physical therapy can correct or prevent improper movement patterns, and be started at anytime.
What Can I Expect at a Physical Therapy Appointment? Your first physical therapy appointment will consist of an evaluation of your pain, posture, function, and range of motion. Specific physical tests may be done, based on your diagnosis. A treatment is initiated which may
consist of hands-on joint and/or muscle stretching (called manual therapy), massage, exercises, and techniques such as ultrasound, mild electrical stimulation, ice or heat. Every physical therapist has different training and techniques they prefer to use, so a session at one office may be very different from another office or therapist.
What Kind of Training does a Physical Therapist Have? A physical therapist is a state licensed health professional that has graduated from an accredited university, either with a master’s degree (MPT or MSPT) or Continued on next page
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Web MD defines physical therapy as a type of treatment you may need when health problems make it hard to move around and do everyday tasks.
entry-level doctorate in physical therapy (DPT). Physical therapists must pass a licensure exam and are required to take yearly education courses.
How Do You Find a Physical Therapist in Your Area? Physical therapists work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, or for home health agencies. To find a local physical therapist you can ask your local physician, or look in the phone book under “Physical Therapy” or on the Internet by entering “Physical Therapy” and the town. You can also go to the American Physical Therapy Association’s website at apta.org for more information about many physical therapy topics, or to “Find a PT.”
PEDIATRICS Dr Robert Lofgran Dr Gene Gates Dr Douglas Cottrell Mark Hammar, PA-C
CARING FOR YOUR FAMILY TREE At Seasons Medical we care for the entire family, from Great Grandma to your new bouncing baby. Specialists in pediatrics, internal medicine, and women’s health have joined under one roof to make sure all the people under yours have the very best in medical care.
356-0234
WOMEN’S CENTER 2nd Location 534 Trejo Dr Gary Lovell Dr Robert Meredith Helene Reusser, CNM Rachel Johanson, CNM Karen Owens, CNM Linda Webster, WHNP INTERNAL MEDICINE Extended Hours Dr Steven Lofgran Rex Meredith, PA-C
36 PROFESSIONAL PLAZA, REXBURG
seasonsmedical.com
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dogs encourage owners to
get up, get out and get moving Studies show walking can lower the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, and may help combat obesity in both humans and pets.
(ARA) besity rates are dramatically higher than a decade ago. Twelve states now have obesity rates of 30 percent or higher, according to a recent report by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. With obesity a serious health threat, many families are on the lookout for ways to increase their physical activity levels. For families who own a dog, one helpful answer may be as close as their favorite furry friend. Walking and exercising with the family dog is an easy way to get moving, spend quality time together and get to know your neighbors. 38
“The simple act of taking daily walks with your dog provides great benefits for people, pets and communities,” says Dr. Sandra McCune, research manager for the Human-Animal Interaction Research Program at The Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition and co-editor of the newly released book “The Health Benefits of Dog Walking for People & Pets: Evidence and Case Studies.” “Studies show walking can lower the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, and may help combat obesity in both humans and pets. Walking a dog has also been shown to increase interaction among neighbors, fostering
social cohesion. These are real, tangible benefits to having a pet.” Dogs are effective motivators to get their owners moving, according to a survey conducted on behalf of the Petcare segment at Mars Inc., which includes such well-known pet brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas, Nutro, Royal Canin and Banfield. The survey found that nearly two-thirds of dog owners engage in exercise on a weekly basis because of their dog and that 29 percent of dog owners who engage in regular exercise other than walking do so because of their dog. The survey also found that dogs are the driving force behind
two-thirds of the walks their owners take each week. Walking with your dog is one of the most basic and accessible forms of exercise for you and your pet. It’s a low-cost, low-impact way for people to meet and sustain recommended levels of physical activity—a key driver of health. And it’s not just humans who benefit from getting out and about—an estimated 54 percent of dogs and cats in the U.S. are also overweight or obese, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Regular walks are an important part of keeping your dog healthy. To spread the word about the benefits of regularly walking your dog, Mars Petcare’s The Power of Pets program is focusing its 2011 campaign on promoting dog walking as a gateway to increased physical activity. Launched in 2010 in partnership with local YMCAs in cities across the United States, The Power of Pets helps raise awareness about the health benefits of pet ownership. This community-focused initiative explores, celebrates and communicates the relationship between humans and pets, and the impact it can have on fostering healthier people and communities. For additional tips and information visit The Power of Pets at facebook.com/
powerofpets. To help you get moving and take advantage of the all that the season has to offer with your dog, consider these tips: • While you don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to walk with your dog, make sure you have a comfortable harness and leash, and that your dog is trained to walk by your side.
cancer treatmant options
St. John’s Oncology & Infusion Therapy Services The Oncology Infusion Center at St. John’s Medical Center is a patientfocused clinic dedicated to managing the care of patients with cancer, blood disorders and a variety of other conditions that can benefit from IV therapies.
• Before you set off on a walk or run, check the weather—heat stroke can be dangerous for you and your dog. Check that the pavement is not too hot for your dog’s paws and that you and your dog are well hydrated. • If you and your pet are ready to bring your workout to the next level, take your dog on a run with hills or vary your speed to help increase your workout. • Only run with breeds who can handle it. Many breeds are not meant to run for extended periods of time. If you’re looking for other ways to exercise with your dog, play a game like tag or Frisbee. Before beginning any exercise routine, remember to always check with your doctor and your veterinarian. Then, get up, get out and get you, your family and your dog moving.
Our nationally certified oncology nurses work with patients, families, physicians and support staff to deliver customized treatment plans.
St. John’s Offers: Regular oncology clinics with John Ward, M.D. Hematologist/ Oncologist from Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, UT. Nationally certified oncology nurses Judy Basye, RN, OCN, CBPN-IC, our certified Cancer Patient Navigator, assists patients from diagnosis through treatment in both imaging and cancer services. Our new cancer treament center will be completed 2012 307 739 6195
St John’s
Oncology Services 625 E. Broadway Jackson, WY tetonhospital.org/oncology 39
We Delivered! Our New Women & Infants Center is ready!
Fresh and beautiful, it’s also the best and safest place for women and their babies.
• Spa-like amenities • Tranquil color schemes and gorgeous new furniture • Family-centered care • The nearest hospital with equivalent capabilities is 180 miles from Idaho Falls • High-tech Level IIIb NICU with capacity for 26 of the tiniest preemies • Maternal-fetal transport capabilities
When you tell your doctor you’ve chosen to deliver at EIRMC, you can count on pampering and plush accommodations. You’ll also have peace of mind that comes from knowing your hospital is ready for anything – just in case.
Take a virtual tour. Sign up for classes. www.eirmc.com 40
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