Physician's Guide June 2014

ROCKDALE CITIZEN NEWTON CITIZEN

JUNE 2014

SUMMER EDITION

PHYSICIANS GUIDE

ROCKDALE/NEWTON'S PREMIER HEALTH CARE MAGAZINE

INSIDE:

• Better health through Chiropractic • Individualized Health Care • High Risk behavior for skin cancer • Newborn heart defect screening

• Stay fit with walking • Hypertension, the silent killer • Senior lifestyle and care options

Anne Grant, MD, Internal Medicine

Jamie Adams, DC, Chiropractor

B. Carter Rogers, MD, FACS

Wendell Smith, MD, Sports Medicine

Stephanie Gordon, MD, Gyn Surgeon

Candice Riggeal, DO, Neurology-Epilepsy

Cathy T. Larrimore, MD, OB/GYN

James E. Williams, Jr., DPM, Podiatrist

David N. Socoloff, DO, Gastroenterologist

Veronica Garrett, MD, FACOG, OB/GYN

Michael J. Manning, MD, MDVIP, Family Practice

Shiraz H. Kassam, MD, FRCSC, FACOG, OB/GYN

Mitchel Thacker, DC, Chiropractor

Trinidad Osselyn, MD, Internal Medicine

Steven R. Whitworth, MD, FACS

G. Wayne Newman Jr., DPM, Podiatrist

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

INDEX ASSISTED LIVING Yellow Brick House 6903 Main St. Lithonia, GA 30058 • 770-482-4044 Morningside Assisted Living 1352 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-1654 BANKING Newton Federal 3175 Hwy. 278 NE, Covington, GA 30014 8258 Hwy. 278 NE, Covington, GA 30014

By Pass Rd. & Hwy. 36, Covington, GA 30014 770-786-7088 CHIROPRACTIC Thacker Chiropractic Mitchel Thacker, DC Steven Thacker, DC 1927 Hwy. 138, Suite 500 Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-860-8333 Covington Family Chiropractic Jamie Adams, DC 2125 Pace St. Suite B Morgan Plaza Covington, GA 30014 • 770-689-6987 DERMATOLOGY Dermatology Consultants PC Michelle Juneau, MD Benjamin Kelly, MD Beth Gundy, PA-C 4151 Hospital Drive Covington, GA 30014 • 770-784-0343 Georgia Dermatology of Conyers John Fountain, MD Allen Filstein, MD Darryl Hodson, MD 1349 Milstead Rd. Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-785-7546 FAMILY MEDICINE Premier Internal Medicine Anne Grant, MD 5294 Adams St. NE Covington, GA 30014 • 770-787-5600 Conyers Medical Clinic Ganesh Kini, MD 2601 Salem Rd. Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-922-1880 Essential Family Care Sheryl Canady, MD 1775 Parker Rd., Suite C-240 Conyers, GA • 678-609-6282 Family Practice of Conyers Alvin V. Griffin, MD 1039 E. Freeway Dr. SE Conyers, GA 30094 • 770-922-0076 Newton Medical Family Practice Donna Groover, MD 7143 Turner Lake Road Covington, GA 30014 • 770-788-9970 Muthu Kuttappan, MD 14779 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington, GA 30014 • 770-788-7777

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

MAKE THE BEST CHOICE IN HEALTH CARE FAMILY MEDICINE Bridgewater Family Practice Donny Delp, DO Onika-Popo James, DO Michael J. Manning, MD, MDVIP Jonathan E. Henderson, MD 2215 Exchange Place, SE Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-922-3522 Internal Medicine Associates of Rockdale, P.C. 1301 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-3023 2800 Hwy. 138 SW Suite A, Conyers, GA 30016 • 770-602-2970 GASTROENTEROLOGY East Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, PC 1269 Wellbrook Circle, NE Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-0505 HEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY East Atlanta Hematology & Oncology Victoria Afshani, MD 10157 Eagle Drive Covington, GA 30014 • 770-786-0655 HOSPICE Abbey Hospice 215 Azalea Court Social Circle, GA 30025 • 770-464-5858 Toll free 1-866-252-2239 HOSPITAL Rockdale Medical Center 1412 Milstead Avenue Conyers, GA 30012 • 800-424-DOCS (3627) Newton Medical Center 5126 Hospital Drive., NE Covington, GA 30014 • 770-786-7053 INFECTIOUS DISEASES East Atlanta Infectious Diseases Suji Mathew, MD 7143 Turner Lake Road Covington, GA 30014 • 770-787-4504 INSURANCE Sheridan & Associates, Inc. Rhonda Sheridan, RN, BSN, CSA, CLTC 983 O’Kelly Street Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-760-9474 NEUROLOGY/NEURO-OPHTHALMOLOGY Rockdale Neurology Associates Bryan Riggeal, MD Candice Riggeal, DO 1255 Commercial Drive, Suite B Conyers, GA 30094 • 770-278-0154 Southeastern Neurology Karuna Shah, DO Sonal Hazariwala, MD 5211 Hwy. 278 NE Covington, GA 30014 • 770-787-8200 OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY/ UROGYNECOLOGY Shiraz Kassam, MD 1380 Milstead Ave., NE Suite B Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-2424

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OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY/ UROGYNECOLOGY Advanced Gynecology Associates Holly Imlach, MD 1380 Milstead Ave. NE Suite E Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-609-4913 Erin Mayfield, DO 5154 Cook St. NE Covington, GA 30014 • 770-788-1778 New Beginnings Comprehensive Women's Health Care Veronica Garrett, MD, FACOG N. Ruth Harris, MD Kenya Prade, C.N.P. Shannon Mayfield, C.N.M. 1415 Milstead Rd. NE Suite A Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-413-0858 Premier Obstetrics & Gynecology James D. Harbin, MD, FACOG Barbara Susin, CNM, MPH, MSN 10155 Eagle Drive Covington, GA 30014 • 770-787-4459 The Women's Center, PC Stephanie Gordon, MD 2750 Owens Drive, Suite A Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-413-4644 140 Eagles Spring Court, Suite B Stockbridge, GA 30281 • 770-302-0878 Covington Women's Health Specialists, LLC Cathy T. Larrimore, MD 4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 104/100 Covington, GA 30014 • 770-385-8954 ORAL SURGERY Oral Surgery Associates & Dental Implant Centers 1463 Klondike Rd. Suite C Conyers, GA 30094 • 770-483-9692 ORTHOPEDIC/SPORTS MEDICINE Athens Orthopedic Clinic 1401 W. Spring St. Monroe, GA • 770-267-0978 1077 S. Main St. Madison, GA • 770-267-0978 1553 Janmar Rd., Ste. A Snellville, GA • 770-274-0007 Georgia Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Renee S. Riley, MD FAAOS Ryan J. Tomlins, MD, CAQ 4181 Hospital Drive #204 Covington, GA 30014 • 770-788-6534 PEDIATRICS Childrens Medicine of Rockdale Amit Deokar, MD, M.P.H., F.A.A.P. 1765 Parker Road Ste. B210 Conyers, GA 30093 • 770-761-0672 PHYSICAL THERAPY Benchmark Physical Therapy 1820 Hwy. 20 SE, Suite 146 Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-929-8872 11186 Hwy 142 Covington, GA 30014 • 678-712-3692 PODIATRY Associated Foot & Ankle Specialists G. Wayne Newman, Jr., DPM 1567 Milstead Road, Suite A Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-483-2291

PODIATRY Ankle & Foot Specialists of Rockdale James E. Williams, Jr., DPM 1025 East Freeway Drive Conyers, GA 30094 • 770-929-3338 Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia 1720 Honey Creek Commons, Suite B Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-483-1100 3152 Hwy. 278 NE Covington, GA 30014 • 678-342-3088 RADIATION ONCOLOGY Georgia Cancer Specialists Kathleen Lambert, MD Sherine Thomas, MD 1501 Milstead Rd., Suite 110 Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-760-9949 TECHNICAL COLLEGE Georgia Piedmont Technical College 16200 Alcovy Rd. Covington, GA 30014 • 404-297-9522 8100 Bob Williams Pkwy Covington, GA 30014 • 404-297-9522 URGENT CARE Georgia Primary & Urgent Care Andrew Smith, MD Benjamin Fernando, MD Randy Riner, PA Conyers Medical Park 1301 Sigman Rd. NE, Suite 230 Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-609-4912 Wendell Smith, MD 5294 Adams Street Covington, GA 30014 • 770-787-5600 VASCULAR & THORACIC Pavilion Surgical Associates B. Carter Rogers, MD, FACS Steven R. Whitworth, MD, FACS 4181 Hospital Drive NE, #303 Covington, GA 30014 • 770-787-6957 Rockdale Vascular Associates Robert C. Davies, MO, FACS, FAPW-CA Erikaa Mann, PA-C 1301 Sigman Rd. NE, Suite 130 Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-609-4927 WOMEN'S HEALTH Digital Mammography Specialists, LLC 3242 Avalon Blvd.

Conyers, GA 30013 • 678-904-6823 option #3 Just Breast April Speed, MD 1364 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-210-2846 WOUND CARE & HYPERBARIC MEDICINE Hyperbaric & Wound Healing Center Rockdale Medical Center Brian D. Allen, MD 1412 Milstead Ave. Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-413-7738

Look for our Fall Edition of the Physicians Guide publishing in October 2014

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JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

STROKE

Newton Medical Center Wants Our Community to Know the Signs and Symptoms of Stroke So You Can ACT F.A.S.T.

What is Stroke?

Stroke, also known as a “brain attack,” is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. Every 40 seconds someone has a stroke. If you see any sign of stroke, consider it an emergency and proceed, without delay, for

STROKE SYMPTOMS Some signs of stroke include: • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance • Sudden severe headache with no known cause

emergency care.

Blood vessels that carry blood to the brain from the heart are called arteries.

The brain needs a constant supply of blood, which carries the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. Each artery supplies blood to specific areas of the brain. A stroke occurs when one of these arteries to the brain is either blocked or bursts. As a result, part of the brain does not get the blood it needs, so it starts to die. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked for a short time. When this happens, the brain temporarily malfunctions.

How a Stroke Affects You The Sides of the Brain The left side of the brain controls the right side of the body.

You use the left side of your brain to move the right side of your body, figure out math and science problems and understand what you read and hear. You may have trouble doing these things if you have a stroke that damages parts of the left side of your brain.

The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body.

You use the right side to move the left side of your body and do creative things like paint a picture, appreciate art or music, recognize the emotion in someone’s voice or find where you plan to go. You may have trouble doing these

things if you have a stroke in the right side of your brain.

Some Effects of Stroke After a stroke, you may have emotional and physical changes. Depending on the part of your brain that was affected, you might have problems with: • Seeing • Sleeping • Having seizures • Controlling your bladder and bowels • Moving parts of your body • Pain • Fatigue • Thinking • Memory • Depression When Stroke Strikes, EMS is the First Line of Defense On average, 1 stroke occurs every 40 seconds in the United States • Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability.

EMS is the first medical contact for over 50% of stroke patients* • Standardized emergency medical services (EMS) protocols and procedures to rapidly assess, address, and transport patients are important to proper patient care Proceed immediately to the ER at Newton Medical Center if you are experiencing any signs of stroke.

Newton Medical Center Emergency Room 5126 Hospital Drive Covington, GA 30014 770-385-4365

*Adams HP Jr, del Zoppo G, Alberts MJ, et al. Guidelines for the early management of adults with ischemic stroke. Stroke. 2007;38(5):1655-1711.

Courtesy of Genentech, A Member of the Roche Group

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

CHIROPRACTIC

Better Health Through Chiropractic Jamie Adams, DC Covington Family Chriopractic Most people would consider seeing a chiropractor for low back or neck pain, but the truth is, chiropractic is about so much more than pain relief. It’s about your life. In fact, relief of low back pain, neck pain, and headaches are truly the smallest benefits one would get from chiropractic care. As a Doctor of Chiropractic, I focus on increasing your health from the inside out, and naturally, as a side effect, any aches and pains you have will be relieved as well.

So how can chiropractic improve you health? How healthy a person is, can be directly related to how the body is functioning. For example, if your lungs are not func-

tioning at their best, you may have symptoms such as asthma, breathing difficulties, bronchitis, etc…

The same would be true for any organ, tissue or cell in your body.

So then what controls how each part of your body is functioning?

Your nervous system; made up of your brain, spinal cord and nerves.

The brain sends messages to every organ, tissue, and cell in your body via your spinal cord then out each nerve to each part. So, right now, your heart is beating, your lungs are breathing, your digestive system is working to digest your last meal. All of these involuntary functions are controlled by the brain and nervous system.

spine protects the spinal cord and nerves that go out to each part.

The activities of daily living can leave a huge impact on the spine and cause the small bones, vertebra, to shift and misalign, we call this misalignment a subluxation.

When that happens, the bones begin to put pressure on the nerves that exit the spinal cord at that level. If those nerves happen to be the ones that go to the heart or lungs or digestive system, or any other system, you can now imagine how that part is going to work.

Not very well. That, my friend, is when we begin to experience the symptoms, the health challenges, the fatigue, the constant sickness.

So then, where does chiropractic fit into this? Well, chiropractors deal primarily with the spine. The

So, being a chiropractor, I am highly skilled in spinal and nervous system anatomy and in de-

tecting the presence of spinal subluxations. I use my hands to give a safe, gentle and effective adjustment to the spine to remove the subluxations and any interference to the nervous system. We then work together to come up a game plan that will help you reach your health goals to have you start living again! I also do health, wellness, and nutrition workshops and coaching so we can approach all your health needs. It’s time you started living again and took control of your health! At Covington Family Chiropractic, your path to a better health starts here! Insurance is not required to be a member of our practice, but if you do have it, we welcome all types.

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COVINGTON FAMILY

CHIROPRACTIC 770.689.6987 • www.cfchiropractic.com 2125 Pace Street, Covington, GA 30014

• Headaches • Carpal tunnel • Sports injury and maintenance • Arthritis • Allergies • Asthma • Ear infections

• Infertility • Breech pregnancy • ADD • Autism • Digestive problems • Overall health • Family wellness

Dr. Jamie Adams

Wellness Chiropractor

$47 Special Introductory Offer!

Offer good for a limited time only. Includes initial exam, initial consultation and initial adjustment.

Not good with any other coupon or offer. Call and bring this card with you! Expires October 26, 2014.

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This coupon is good for a spinal exam, consultation, and one adjustment for only $47!

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JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Better Results from Hands-On Care As physical therapists continue to search for evidence-based ways to get better results for their patients, there has been an increase in talk about Manual Therapy. The advantage is clear– studies show patients recover faster when treated by therapists performing manual therapy, and especially by those with advanced certification and board certification in the practice.

Manual Therapy – The Basics Manual Therapy is an approach to patient care that involves specific hands-on techniques such as applying pressure on muscle tissue and manipulating joints to diagnose and treat soft tissues and joints. Results include a reduction in pain, increased range of motion and joint mobility, reduced or eliminated soft tissue inflammation, and an overall improved ability to relax.

While basic exercise can restore weak and/or inflexible muscle, recent studies show better results for most conditions when physical therapists apply manual therapy techniques.

For Back & Neck Pain Manual therapy is often prescribed for those suffering from chronic back pain involving joint problems and soft tissue injuries, such as a strain. A 2003 study confirmed that people with chronic low back pain benefit substantially from manual therapy techniques along with exercise. Additionally, in 2008, research found that therapies involving manual therapy and exercise are more effective than alternatives for patients with neck pain.

This is especially significant, as back and neck pain are the top two reasons patients visit doctors, and it is estimated that 80% of the popu-

lation will suffer from back pain at some point.

Close to Home Therapists with advanced certifications, such as Jennifer Junkin and Stevi Wheeler, at BenchMark Physical Therapy in Covington and Conyers, use knowledge and clinical reasoning to more quickly address and treat patient problems. The result for patients is fewer visits, faster relief, less money out of pocket, and more time with family and friends.

Manual Therapy and BenchMark BenchMark Physical Therapy was founded as an orthopaedic physical therapy rehab company whose approach is concentrated in manual therapy. Today, all BenchMark therapists, like Jennifer and Stevi, regularly perform manual therapy, and the company is committed to providing

advanced certifications in manual therapy to all its clinicians. In fact, BenchMark has more Certified Manual Therapists than any other physical therapy provider in our region.

According to the President of BenchMark Rehab Partners, Troy Bage, “BenchMark’s clinical care is focused toward evidence-based practice, and Manual Therapy is a big part of that kind of care.”

Stay Tuned: In the next issue of the Physician’s Guide, learn about a technique for quickly resolving pain for conditions such as tendonitis, neck pain, headaches, frozen shoulder, muscles strains, and more. Can’t wait? Call us!

If you, or someone you know, is suffering from pain, call your BenchMark Physical Therapy clinic and ask about a complimentary screening.

Manual therapy interventions may make all the difference.

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EXPERIENCING PAIN? Relief is Just One Step Away!

STEP 1: Call BenchMark Physical Therapy for a Free Musculoskeletal Screening Did you know that your BenchMark Physical Therapists—Stevi Wheeler, PT, DPT, Jennifer Junkin, PT, DPT, MTC and Malynda Carruth, PT, DPT, CEAS—are musculoskeletal experts who can quickly gauge the cause of your pain and develop a program for your quick recovery?

What’s more...

You don’t need a doctor’s referral to see us for this free screening, If you need physical therapy, we’ll handle your insurance precertification and work with you to understand your benefits If you need a physician, we’ll refer you to one

STEP 2: Relax. There’s no Step 2. We’ve got this and you’re about to get better – fast!

BenchMark Physical Therapy in Conyers 1820 Hwy 20 SE, Ste 146 Conyers, GA 30013 P: (770) 929-8872 BenchMark Physical Therapy in Covington 11186 Highway 142 Covington, GA 30014 P: (678) 712-3692 Your local BenchMark team has expertise in manual therapy, Vestibular, FCE’s, Work Conditioning, Sports Medicine, Ergonomic Assessments, Disability Ratings and Dry Needling.

6 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Stevi Wheeler, PT, DPT

Jennifer Junkin, PT, DPT, MTC

Malynda Carruth, PT, DPT, CEAS

Need a family doctor?

Seeking a specialist?

From family practices and OBGYNs to specialists in orthopedics, surgery, heart care and more, call 800-424-DOCS to find the care you need close to home or work.

www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org

Meet the Newest Members of our

Medical Community

April Speed M.D. Breast Surgeon

We are pleased to welcome Dr. April Speed to the Rockdale Medical Center family. Dr. Speed opened her Conyers office, Just Breast, in February. She provides 100% breast services to women, men and adolescents. Dr. Speed is a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, The Society of Surgical Oncology and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Dr. Speed serves on several Boards, including the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta affiliate, and the Georgia Perimeter College. Dr. Speed believes in providing breast care with “Dignity and Detail.”

Residency and Training Morehouse School of Medicine

Awards ASCO Diversity and Oncology Award Recipient 2009

Medical Degree Morehouse School of Medicine

Practice Information Just Breast 1364 Wellbrook circle Conyers, Ga 30012 678.210.2846 Fax 678.210.2839 www.draprilspeed.com

Fellowship MD Anderson Cancer Center

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Amit Deokar to the Rockdale Medical Center family.

Dr. Deokar interests are Primary care for children from birth to 21 years, with a special interest in Adolescent Health.

Dr. Deokar is a big advocate of Preventative Medicine and Public Health to his patients and their families. Dr. Deokar is fluent in English, Hindi, and Marathi.

Amit Deokar M.D. M.P.H., F.A.A.P. Pediatrics Residency and Training University of Wisconsin Marshfield Clinic Marshfield, WI Medical Degree NDMVPS Medical College Nashik, India Master’s In Public Health Northern Illinois University DeKalb, IL

Professional Memberships American Academy of Pediatrics-Member American Board of Pediatrics-Diplomat Practice Information Childrens Medicine of Rockdale 1765 Parker Rd Ste B210 Conyers Ga 30093 770.761.0672 Fax 770.761.0784 www.rockdalekids.com Monday – Friday 8:30-5:00 188909-1

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

FAMILY PRACTICE

MDVIP focuses on prevention and individualized health care

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent

He has never seen the hit television show, but says people often refer to it when they hear about the kind of medicine he practices these days.

The fictional Dr. Hank Lawson of the popular TV series “Royal Pains” and Dr. Michael Manning of Conyers have more in common than their comforting bedside manner.

The television show is about a concierge doctor who treats the rich and famous. Manning is a board certified family physician at Bridgewater Family Practice in Conyers who has become part of a program designed to offer more personalized health care.

The program, MDVIP is a type of concierge medicine that focuses on prevention and individualized health care.

“I have a smaller practice and am able to spend 30 minutes with people as opposed to 15 minutes or so as before,” Manning said.

The patient is fully assessed and receives an extensive physical that includes specific screenings and tests.

“The patient comes in a week later to go over the tests and I am able to put together a package (that says) ‘Here’s your risk and here’s how to approach it,’” the doctor said. “The focus is on preventative medicine and preventing heart attacks and cancer.”

MDVIP, which is associated with Proctor and Gamble has been around more than 13 years, Manning said.

“They give us the ability to have a lot of the new technology and things that are out there for prevention,” he added. “The reason the program works is the fee the patient pays goes to pay for those preventative tests because insurance is not paying for them at this point. There are things we can do that are more proactive than what insurance allows us to do.”

program also allows for doctors who see patients with a number of different medical problems to spend more time dealing with them.

“It’s the kind of health care we should all be doing, but the problem is it’s not being supported by our insurance programs now,” he said.

Manning said the MDVIP program has about 730 physicians taking care of a growing number of patients. The doctor said the program has already shown how this type of health care produces results for patients.

“One of the studies we do shows this group has reduced heart attacks by 11 percent compared to the general population,” Manning said. “So it is showing results and it is obvious if I can save one person from a heart attack, I’ve saved them and the system from a fair amount of money. It is cost effective, but most of us look short term and not big picture.”

The Conyers doctor said programs such as MDVIP could be the way of the future in health care.

“It could be the best way to not only practice medicine, but to decrease the overall cost of health care,” he said. “The problem is it does have some fee attached to it. The patients who sign up for it just see the value in prevention and are willing to pay for it.”

Manning said he has patients

Manning said that in addition to the benefit of having new technology, the 8 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

from a number of different socioeconomic groups.

“Will it be something the entire country could do?” he asked rhetorically. “No, probably not because you don’t have enough doctors and a lot of people don’t see the value of health care. They’re happy going along and never see a doctor. It’s not a bad thing, but (it depends) on what you want to put your money into.”

Manning, a native Atlantan who graduated from high school at St Pius, was a student at Georgia Tech headed for a career in engineering when he took a biology class he enjoyed so much he decided to become a doctor. He said his first real interest in the medical field came about when he was just a young child who admired his pediatrician.

“His general nature and mannerisms probably stimulated my interest in medicine before I knew I was interested in it,” he said. He added that his father, who was a professor of physiology at Emory University also contributed to his interest in studying medicine.

Manning left Georgia Tech for Emory University Medical School and completed his family practice residency training at the University of Kansas

Medical Center in Kansas City, Ks. He has practiced in the Rockdale and Newton areas for more than two decades.

The doctor founded Bridgewater 15 years ago and as the growing practice continues to specialize in family medicine, Manning will now focus on the MDVIP aspect of his practice.

The other three doctors at Bridgewater will continue to serve patients from infancy through their golden years handling a range of medical and personal care with an emphasis on preventive medicine.

“One of the things that makes us different is we have a staff that is very caring and outgoing,” Manning said.

“They really care about the patients.

The whole atmosphere is family oriented and we do our best to treat people as though they’re part of our family.”

Manning’s MDVIP practice will be based out of the Bridgewater facility in Conyers.

“I started looking at this program about four years ago and decided it was the right thing to do,” he said. “I do home visits if I need to, but most of the time they come here.

The doctor said the patients who have chosen this service seem to be pleased with it.

“It offers the ability to stay ahead of your health care and stay happy and healthy as opposed to waiting until something happens,” he said. “I’ve been very pleased with it. It makes my job nicer. I can actually not run from patient to patient and try to put out fires, but look ahead to see what we can do to keep them healthy and keep them moving.”

Manning and his wife Linda celebrated their 33rd anniversary this year.

They are the parents of a grown son and daughter.

For more information on MDVIP please call our office at 770-922-3522 or visit our website at www.mybfp.com 183201-1

Modern Healthcare …

Old Fashioned Values BRIDGEWATER

FAMILY PRACTICE Specializing in Family Medicine serving all members of your family from infancy to the golden years.

Donny Delp, DO

Michael J. Manning, MD, MDVIP

OVER 30 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE!

Onika Popo-James, DO

Jonathan E. Henderson, MD

As a team, we will provide for the healthcare needs of our patients by utilizing up to date medical standards and integrated technology to the best of our abilities. We realize that our talents and abilities are gifts from God and must be used wisely. We will respect and honor every individual as a child of God.

Diabetes • High Blood Pressure • Sports Medicine • Allergies • Pediatrics

2215 Exchange Place, SE Conyers, Ga. 30013

770-922-3522 www.mybfp.com

Same Day Appointments Available • Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center 183200-1

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

SPORTS PHYSICALS

Sports Physicals are not the same as Regular Physicals

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent Most parents with kids who play team sports have seen the form. The sports physical form that has to be filled out and signed by a doctor before the child is allowed to play on a team. The exam involves a physician performing a general examination and reviewing the family’s medical history as a way of making sure it is safe for the youngster to take part in the sports activity.

Dr. Wendell Smith of Georgia Primary and Urgent Care on Adams Street in Covington, sees patients who have all sorts of conditions and he regularly performs sports physicals.

“Sports physicals are important because unsuspected disease could be uncovered that could prevent injury or death,” Smith said. “The examination involves a history and physical which have been recommended by the Georgia

Athletic Association.”

The doctor, who played football in high school at Carver High School in Monroe, was on the state championship team in 1969. A sports enthusiast, he enjoys football, basketball, track and field and played football one year in college at Tennessee State University. Smith received his bachelor of science degree in zoology from Tennessee State University and received his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. Smith is a fellow in the American Academy of Family Practice and a diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice.

The doctor also did an internship in internal medicine at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn., and did his residency in family practice at the Medical College of Georgia.

Smith served in the U.S. Air Force in the 1970s and was medical director for

Hancock County Primary Care in Sparta from 1983-89. He was a staff physician for Tri-County Health System in Warrenton in the 1990s, becoming medical director in 2004.

of Family Physicians and the American Diabetes Association.

In 2007, Adams opened his private practice in Covington and last year, he became part of Premier Healthcare Alliance. The doctor was named Georgia Association of Community Health Centers Physician of the Year in 2005 and was recognized as a Red Cross volunteer who treated Hurricane Katrina evacuees.

Playing on a community or school sports team offers an opportunity for young people to stay in shape and to learn teamwork. An estimated 38 million American children and teenagers play at least one sport.

Smith is a member and affiliate of a number of organizations, including the American Medical Association, National Medical Association, Medical Association of Georgia, American Academy of Family Physicians, Georgia Academy

In his Covington practice, the doctor regularly works with young athletes in providing sports physicals.

No matter the sport, there is always a risk of getting hurt.

Injuries can range from sprained ankles to serious conditions such as heat stroke or exercise-induced asthma. To avoid such incidents, these young athletes need to be prepared and that starts with seeing a doctor for a sports physical to make sure their bodies are ready for such sports activities.

A sports physical is not the same as a regular physical.

During a sports physical, the doctor usually checks height, weight, blood pressure, eyes, ears and looks for any concerns, diseases or injuries that could make it unsafe to take part in certain sports. The doctor talks to the patient about any history of illness, hospitalizations or injuries that might prevent the child from playing or that might limit the amount of activity that is safe.

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Georgia Primary & Urgent Care

Keeping Kids in the Game

WALK INS WELCOME

From sprains and strains to minor injuries, sore throats and earaches, we’re here with the latest state-of-the-art technology and medical expertise to treat sports injuries.

X-RAYS ON SITE

Animal & insect bites • Allergic reactions • Skin rashes and infections • Bronchitis Asthma • Vomiting & diarrhea • Women’s health • Diabetes • Urinary tract infections DOT and Drug Screens • X-Rays

Randy Riner, PA

Georgia Primary & Urgent Care Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

Andrew Smith, MD

Benjamin Fernando, MD

Seeing Patients 2 years & Over!

Conyers Medical Park 1301 Sigman Rd NE Suite 230 Conyers, GA 30012

678-609-4912 www.conyersurgentcare.com M-F 8AM-7PM • SAT 8AM - 12 NOON

Wendell Smith, MD

Seeing Patients 15 years & Over!

5294 Adams Street NE Covington, GA 30014 770-787-5600

M, T, W 8AM-5PM THU, F 8AM- 12:30PM

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THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 11

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

DERMATOLOGY

High-risk behaviors for skin cancer common among young adults Half of adults younger than age 30 report being sunburned; indoor tanning rates highest among white women CDC Division of News & Electronic Media Young adults are increasing their risk for developing skin cancer, according to two studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Cancer Institute.

One study, of people aged 18-29, found that 50 percent reported at least one sunburn in the past year, despite an increase in protective behaviors such as sunscreen use, seeking shade, and wearing long clothing to the ankles. Another report found that indoor tanning is common among young adults, with the highest rates of indoor tanning among white women aged 1821 years (32 percent) and 22-25 years (30 percent). Both reports evaluated data from the National Health Interview Survey’s Cancer Control Supplement.

They are published in today’s issue of CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

“More public health efforts, including providing shade and sunscreen in recreational settings, are needed to raise awareness of the importance of sun protection and sunburn prevention to reduce the burden of skin cancer,” said Marcus Plescia, M.D., M.P.H., director of CDC’s Division of Cancer Prevention and Control. “We must accelerate our efforts to educate young adults about the dangers of indoor tanning to prevent melanoma as this generation ages.”

• The most common sun protective behaviors reported among women aged 18-29 years in 2010 were using sunscreen (37 percent) and staying in the shade (35 percent). White women were less likely to stay in the shade, and black women were less likely to use sunscreen compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Among men aged 1829 years, the most common sun protective behaviors reported in 2010 were wearing long clothing to the ankles (33 percent) and staying in the shade (26 percent).

• Among white women aged 18-21 years who reported indoor tanning, an average of 28 visits occurred in the past year. White women aged 18-21 years were the most common users of indoor tanning.

• The highest prevalence of indoor tanning was reported among white women aged 1821 years residing in the Midwest (44 percent), and those aged 22-25 years in the South (36 percent).

• Among white adults who reported indoor tanning, Findings from the two studies: • Among adults aged 18-29 58 percent of women and 40 years, whites reported the high- percent of men used one 10 or est sunburn prevalence (66 per- more times in the previous year.

People should take these cent in 2010) whereas the lowest rates were among blacks (11 steps to protect themselves from percent in 2010). Although sun- ultraviolet light exposure that burn is not as common among could lead to skin blacks as compared to whites, cancer by: • Seeking shade, especially blacks can get sunburned.

Skin cancer is the most common from of cancer in the United States, and melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and from indoor tanning equipment is the most important preventable risk factor for skin cancer.

Indoor tanning before age 35 increases a person’s risk of getting melanoma by 75 percent.

Sunburn indicates too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

“Efforts to shape public policies awareness regarding indoor tanning generally have been targeted toward adolescents rather than young adults to help change behavior of minors,” said Anne Hartman, study coauthor from the Applied Research Program Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences.

“This study suggests that as adolescents mature into young adults, they may continue to need environmental support to develop and maintain healthy behaviors and to change their perspectives about tanning.”

12 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

during midday hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

• Wearing clothing to protect exposed skin.

• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat to shade the face, head, ears, and neck.

• Wearing wrap-around sunglasses that block as close to 100 percent of ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays as possible. Sunglasses safeguard your eyes from UVA and UVB rays, protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure, and reduce the risk of cataracts and ocular melanoma.

• Using sunscreen with sun protective factor 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB protection.

• Avoiding indoor tanning.

For information about CDC’s efforts in skin cancer prevention, visit http://www.cdc.gov/ cancer/skin.

NCI leads the National Cancer Program and NIH’s effort to dramatically reduce the burden of cancer and improve the lives of cancer patients and their families, through research into prevention and cancer biology, the development of new interventions, and the training and mentoring of new researchers. For more information about cancer, visit www.cancer.gov or call NCI’s Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).

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THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 13

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

UROGYNECOLOGY

Dr. Stephanie Gordon one of 10 board certified urogynecologists in the state of Georgia

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent Voted “Top Doc” numerous times in a local magazine survey, Dr. Stephanie Gordon’s care and concern for her patients is notable. The founder of The Women’s Center, with offices in Conyers and Stockbridge, Gordon understands the importance of building relationships with her patients.

“I get to see my patients on a recurring basis, so I really get to know them and their families,” she said. “Together, we can quickly identify their concerns and make a plan together. I always include my patients in the decision-making process. Many of their problems can be resolved or improved in a short time frame.

They are happy to get better and get on with their busy lives.”

Gordon has a busy life of her own as she heads up a thriving medical practice and cares for her family, which includes husband David and three daughters.

The family lives in McDonough and when the doctor is not busy working, she and her family enjoy traveling and spending time together.

“A true Atlanta native,” as she calls herself, Gordon was born at Georgia Baptist Hospital where her mother was attending nursing school.

The doctor graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in genetics and molecular biology.

She graduated with honors from

Mercer University with a degree in medicine and completed a four-year residency at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., where she was the administrative chief resident.

Gordon is board certified by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and serves as a proctor to other physicians who wish to learn incontinence and pelvic prolapse procedures.

The doctor practiced obstetrics and gynecology in a private practice in Stockbridge before opening her own private practice based in Conyers. She founded The Women’s Center in 2003, as a gynecology and surgery practice dedicated to providing individualized care for women. Her practice has grown to include a Henry County office in Stockbridge and now, The Women’s Center has five practitioners offering comprehensive care for women throughout the region.

Gordon has been voted “Top Doc” for several years by “H” magazine in Henry County.

She is one of only 10 board certified urogynecologists in the state of Georgia. A urogynecologist is a surgeon who specializes in the care of women with pelvic floor disorders. The pelvic floor is a set of muscles, ligaments and connective tissues in the lower part of the pelvis that provides support for a woman’s internal organs, including the bowel, bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum.

Gordon is double board certified in the sub-specialty of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery as well as general gynecology.

The Women’s Center has an extensive list of services and procedures it offers, including women’s wellness health care and comprehensive annual exams; repair of pelvic prolapse, relaxation and surgery for bladder leakage; laparoscopic surgery for ovarian problems, endometriosis, tubal and adhesive diseases; daVinci robotics gynecological surgery; traditional abdominal hysterectomy, vaginal, hysterectomy and laparoscopic assisted hysterectomy; in-office ESSURE tubal ligation; infertility; hormone replacement therapy; menopausal management; treatment for fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal bleeding and ovarian cysts, in addition to pap smears, breast exams, ultrasounds and treatment for bladder problems and incontinence—and that is just a partial list.

Gordon’s special focus is on the treatment of heavy periods, incontinence and minimally invasive surgeries. She sees patients in both the Conyers and Stockbridge offices and operates at Piedmont Henry Hospital and Rockdale Medical Center.

Many of Gordon’s patients suffer from incontinence, prolapse, pain and/or an overactive bladder. She said treatments for such problems can involve surgical or non-surgical therapy, depending on what the patient wants to do and based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s general health. Conservative options include medications, pelvic exercises, behavioral and diet modifications, vaginal devices, pelvic floor therapy and biofeedback and electrical stimulation. She said safe and effective surgical procedures are also used to treat incontinence and prolapse.

In-office ultrasound and surgical procedures with intravenous anesthesia are available with an anesthesiologist.

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14 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

A better healthcare experience

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Providing Individualized Care for Women Please visit our website at womenscenterga.com for all the information you need about our office!

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THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 15

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

NEWBORN SCREENING

New Heart Defect Screening for Georgia Newborns

Newton County Mother Sees Her Dream for Screening All Babies For Dangerous Heart Defects Become a Reality

By Cathy T Larrimore, MD Jessica Hatcher smiles as she watches over her four beautiful children who range in age from one to 12 years.

Her 5-year old son, Wyatt, is a playful, active child; onlookers would have no idea that he was born with a serious and life threatening heart defect. Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is the name given to the most severe heart defects which may be discovered at birth. Heart defects cause the heart to be unable to pump oxygenated blood around the body. A defect may affect the shape of a baby’s heart, the way the heart pumps, or sometimes both. Babies with CCHD may sometimes appear very healthy after birth, but there is a limited amount of time for the problem to be recognized or the heart defect may become deadly.

Congenital heart defects are among the most common developmental problems and affect approximately 1 in 100 babies. Prenatal ultrasounds can sometimes help detect heart defects, but not all heart defects are detected in this way. Hatcher was fortunate that while Wyatt was still in the womb, his heart condition was detected by ultrasound. She and her husband, Kevin, were able to learn of the severity of the problem and prepare prior to his

birth. The Hatchers saw their son through years of intensive medical care including a heart transplant in 2010, and with the support of his family and excellent medical care, he is doing very well today.

Hatcher has made it her mission to ensure that a screening test is available to all newborn babies in Georgia. “I would like to prevent other parents from experiencing the unnecessary death of their babies,” she says.

Hatcher learned that a simple test called pulse oximetry can determine which babies may have CCHD before they develop life threatening symptoms. The device is fast, does not hurt and measures the amount of oxygen in the babies’ blood. The babies

with a low oxygen level likely have CCHD and can receive immediate evaluation by a cardiologist.

Early treatment of critical heart disease may lead to longer, healthier lives for these children, and prevent disability and death.

In 2011, Hatcher enlisted the help of Rep. Andy Welch, RMcDonough to get a bill passed that would mandate this screening test. The bill passed both the House and Senate this year, but has not yet become legislation.

Recognizing the importance of this life saving law, the Georgia Department of Public Health has agreed to require the pulse oximetry test for all newborns without the legislation.

Newton Medical Center in Cov-

ington has joined several hospitals in Georgia in enacting the pulse oximetry test for all newborns well in advance of the mandated implementation date of July 1, 2015. Darlene Ransom, RN, Director of Maternal and Infant Care at Newton Medical Center’s Birth Care Center says, “We are excited to offer this vital screening to our patients.”

Dr. Cathy Larrimore and the Staff of Covington Women’s Health Specialists applaud Jessica Hatcher, her supportive family, and other advocates like her for supporting this important initiative concerning the health of newborns.

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Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

Dr. Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

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4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 104 & 100, Covington

770.385.8954 www.cwhs-larrimore.com

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Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

Physician’s Pavilion at Newton Medical Center

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 17

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

NEUROLOGY

New treatment options for Epilepsy Patients

By Beth Slaughter Sexton, Staff Correspondent Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological problem in the U.S. with only migraine, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease occurring more frequently, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Rockdale Neurology Associates has an epilepsy specialist in Candice Riggeal, who works with her husband Dr. Bryan Riggeal in the Conyers practice he founded in 2012.

“I have a strong passion in treating epilepsy patients and am dedicated to helping improve the quality of life of patients with seizures,” Riggeal said. The doctor is a board certified neurologist with a sub specialty in epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a condition of the brain that causes seizures, which are the disruption of the electrical communication between neurons. Someone is said to have epilepsy if they experience two or more unprovoked seizures separated by at least 24 hours. The neurological condition affects the nervous system and is also known as a seizure disorder. It is usually diagnosed after a person has had at least two seizures that were not caused by some known medical condition.

The seizures seen in epilepsy are caused by disturbances in the electrical activity of the brain and may be related to a brain injury or a family tendency, but most of the time the cause is unknown.

More than two million people in the U.S. have epilepsy; that number is 65 million worldwide.

One in 26 people in the U.S. will develop epilepsy at some point in their lifetime, according to the Epilepsy Foundation and around 150,000 new cases are diagnosed in this country each year.

“There are many new seizure medications which are promising and I am excited to be able to offer these treatment options to patients,” Riggeal said.

The Epilepsy Foundation reports new cases of the condition are most common among children, especially during the first year of life. The rate of new cases of epilepsy gradually goes down until the age of 10, then becomes stable. However, after age 55, the rate of new cases of epilepsy starts to increase as people develop strokes, brain tumors or Alzheimer’s disease, which all can cause epilepsy.

Seizures happen more frequently in people who have had a traumatic injury to the brain,

which can include a fall, a blow to the head, gunshot wound or other traumatic injury.

Members of the armed forces who have been in combat are particularly vulnerable to posttraumatic epilepsy, according to the Epilepsy Foundation, which adds that up to 54 percent of soldiers who had brain injuries during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom are at risk for post-traumatic epilepsy.

Seizures take many forms and before the correct treatment can be prescribed, it must be determined what type of seizure the patient has experienced. Tests are done to determine whether a patient has epilepsy and what kind of seizures are happening.

Seizures are generally described in two major groups-primary generalized seizures and partial seizures. The difference between these types is in how and where they begin. Primary generalized seizures begin with a widespread electrical discharge involving both sides of the brain at the same time. The Epilepsy Foundation states that hereditary factors are important in many of these seizures. Partial seizures begin with an electrical discharge in one limited area of the brain and many different causes can be attributed, such as head injury, brain infection, tumor, stroke or a change in the way an area of the brain was formed before birth. The foundation states that often no known cause is found, but genetic factors may be important in some partial seizures.

“I enjoy taking care of epilepsy patients because there is a lot you can do to help them,” Riggeal said. “My fellowship training was devoted to helping epilepsy patients and providing quality care which has allowed me specialized knowledge.”

Riggeal met her husband when she was teaching the neuroscience course to medical students at the University of Florida. Both Riggeals did fellowships at Emory University in Atlanta, with Dr. Bryan Riggeal fellowship trained in neuroophthalmology and Candice Riggeal, DO in epilepsy.

18 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Located at 1255 Commercial Drive, Suite B, Rockdale Neurology Associates sees patients with many conditions, including migraines/headaches; memory loss/dementia; balance and gait disorders; numbness, weakness or neuropathy; multiple sclerosis; Parkinson’s Disease; seizures and spasticity from Stroke.

Candice Riggeal, DO offers a specialized service to the community in the treatment of epilepsy and says her goal is seizure freedom and helping her patients get back their quality of life.

She said the right medications and care can help achieve that goal.

“We will have an EEG (electroencephalogram) machine in our office soon and we will have sixhour capability to monitor and capture seizures to help with diagnosis and treatment options,” Riggeal said.

An EEG is used to look at brain activity and can help diagnose seizures, as well as be used to diagnose or monitor such health conditions as brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, head injuries, tumors and other conditions. The goal of all epilepsy treatment is to prevent further seizures, avoid side effects and make it possible for people to lead active lives.

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IF YOU SUFFER FROM THE FOLLOWING:

Migraines/Headaches Memory Loss/Dementia Balance and Gait Disorders Spasticity from Stroke Numbness, Weakness, or Neuropathy Multiple Sclerosis Parkinson’s Disease Seizures

CALL

Rockdale Neurology Associates at 770.278.0154 for an appointment All Major Insurance Accepted!

COMMITTED TO YOU.

AT ROCKDALE NEUROLOGY ASSOCIATES we are committed to providing accurate assessments and effective treatment for even the most challenging neurologic and neuro-ophthalmic conditions.

Monday thru Friday 8 am-5 pm BRYAN RIGGEAL, MD

Neurology, Neuro-Ophthalmology Medical Director, Rockdale Medical Center Stroke Program 183156-1

CANDICE RIGGEAL, DO Neurology Epilepsy

1255 Commercial Drive • Suite B Conyers, Georgia 30094 • 770.278.0154 www. rockdaleneurology.com Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 19

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

WOUND CARE

Brian D. Allen, MD heads up the Hyperbaric and Wound Healing Center

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent Established in 2008, the Hyperbaric and Wound Healing Center at Rockdale Medical Center offers two state-of-the-art hyperbaric chambers and boasts a wound healing rate of 92 percent. Located on the ground floor in the east tower of the hospital, the center specializes in the treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds, a problem that continues to grow as Americans are aging and being diagnosed with diabetes.

An estimated 18.5 million Americans have diabetes and of that number, approximately 1.8 million will suffer from a problem wound. Rockdale’s Hyperbaric and Wound Healing Center offers an out-patient, hospital-based program where patients receive a customized care plan that is developed by the center’s physicians along with the patient’s primary care physician or specialist. Wound certified nurses also work with the physicians on patient care.

The center offers a team approach to hospital-wide wound care and presently has around 500 patient encounters a month—a number that is growing. There is an exponential rise in chronic or poorly healing wounds because of diabetes mellitus, rising obesity, a growing elderly population, a greater number of complex surgical procedures and antibiotic resistance, according to the Rockdale Hyperbaric and Wound Healing Center.

Dr. Sid M. Shah was director of the center until his tragic death in a plane crash in August last year. In

November, Dr. mer chief of surgery Brian D. Allen at Stanly Regional was named diMedical Center. rector of Rock“The clinic in dale Medical’s Albemarle, N.C., Hyperbaric and was structured simiWound Heallar to Rockdale, but ing Center. the hospital was too A physismall to support the cian certified specialists I need to in hyperbaric provide comprehenmedicine, Alsive wound care,” len was mediAllen said. “Rockcal director for dale has a peripheral care and vascular surgery serthe Center for Wound Wound Care hyperbaric medicine is vice, plastic surgery, and Hyperbaric an emerging medical surgical podiatrists Medicine at specialty and it is and infectious disease Stanly Regional certainly a necessary specialists, all of which Medical Center field of patient care,” were lacking at my in Albemarle, Allen said. “The impact prior hospital. By havN.C. from that dedicated centers ing these specialties 2008 until he locally, proper wound have had on healing was chosen to care can be effectively head up the problem wounds, de- streamlined and coorRockdale cen- creasing amputation dinated.” rates and improving ter.

According to a A certified quality of life is clearly report from the Nawound care beneficial. tional Institutes of specialist, he Health, some, but not graduated with honors from the very many hospitals have a hyperUniversity of Illinois College of baric chamber. The air pressure Medicine in Chicago in 1990. Al- inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamlen did his internship and residency ber is about two and a half times at Rush Medical Center and Cook greater than the normal pressure County Hospital in Chicago, Ill. in the atmosphere, which helps A veteran emergency room blood carry more oxygen to organs nurse at Vanderbilt University and tissues in the body. Hyperbaric Hospital and later a nurse educator, chambers help increase the oxygenAllen’s mother inspired her son to ation of tissues. go into medicine, the doctor said.

Hyperbaric therapy can help He became a surgeon and owned wounds, particularly infected a solo practice in general surgery wounds heal more quickly. Such for 12 years before transitioning to therapy may also be used to treat wound care and hyperbaric medi- a decompression illness, gas or air cine in 2008. embolism, carbon monoxide and Allen previously served as for- cyanide poisoning, blood loss ane-

20 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

mia, prep and preservation of compromised skin grafts and flaps, a crush injury, retinal artery and vein occlusion, acute thermal burns and a number of other conditions.

“Wound care and hyperbaric medicine is an emerging medical specialty and it is certainly a necessary field of patient care,” Allen said. “The impact that dedicated centers have had on healing problem wounds, decreasing amputation rates and improving quality of life is clearly beneficial. Too often this gets practiced by doctors of other specialties on a purely parttime basis. The patient then ends up seeing multiple physicians over the course of their treatment and their care becomes fragmented and less efficient.

“I dedicate my time solely to this field. My study and clinical practice is specific to wounds and hyperbarics and the results have been very gratifying.”

Allen praises the staff at Rockdale Medical Center and said they were very welcoming and supportive of him when he came aboard six months ago.

“I’m grateful to Dr. Sid Shah for establishing such a high quality center for wound and hyperbaric care and hope to build on his legacy.”

Allen and his wife Caroline are making their home in the Conyers area. The doctor, who has been a member of the Surfrider Foundation since 1998, enjoys surfing, playing golf, cooking and working in the garden.

For more information on the Hyperbaric & Wound Healing Center visit our website at www. rockdalemedicalcenter.org or call 678-413-7738 183214-1

Center’s Hyperbaric ealing Center

HEALING CENTER

Rockdale Medical Center’s Comprehensive Hyperbaric & Wound Healing Center specializes in the treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds.

The Hyperbaric & Wound Healing Center is an out-patient, hospital-based program. Each patient receives a customized comprehensive care plan developed in conjunction with our physicians and your primary care physician or specialist. Our team includes vascular and plastic surgeons.

Advanced wound care therapies to speed your recovery may include:

Specialty Wound Ointment & Gels Total Contact Casting Wound Vacs • Bioengineered Tissue Grafts Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

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Hyperbaric & Wound Healing Center Rockdale Medical Center

1412 Milstead Avenue Conyers, Georgia 30012

678.413.7738 www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 21

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

HEALTHY LIVING

Walking a great way to burn calories and stay fit The fitness business is a multi-billion dollar industry. People invest great deals of money in an effort to stay as fit and healthy as possible. But while exercise equipment and gym memberships are worthy investment, those focused on fitness should not underestimate the value of walking as a means to burning calories and promoting overall health.

Walking is great exercise, and people of just about any age and fitness level can get out and walk. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned author and expert in integrative medicine, walking is such a good exercise because it makes use of all muscles, promotes coordination and balance and carries the least risk of injury for people of any age.

The Mayo Clinic concurs, noting that physical exercise does not need to be complicated and that brisk walking can help a person to live a healthier life by providing a number of benefits: * Walking promotes maintaining a healthy weight through physical activity. * Walking can prevent or make it easier

to manage various health conditions that are dependent on weight and cardiovascular health, including blood pressure, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. * Walking is a weight-bearing exercise that can help strengthen bones and promote good posture. * Exercise, like walking, has been known to benefit mood, specifically for those people battling depression.

Although walking is simple, it is an ideal exercise for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it is affordable for anyone and can be done anywhere.

What makes walking attractive to many people from a fitness standpoint is it doesn’t require learning any fancy moves, nor does one need to feel foolish when walking in public areas. People who walk for fitness have a greater chance of sticking with the activity than other exercises that may lose their appeal after a few months.

What people may not realize is that walking provides many of the same ben-

efits as jogging, only with less impact on the joints and feet. Walking also is less taxing on the heart, particularly for people who are adopting a more active lifestyle after a period of being sedentary. According to The Walking Site, the average person can burn approximately 100 calories per mile walked. During a brisk walk, with an average pace of 4 mph, a person can burn between 149 and 220 calories during a 40-minute walk.

Some easy ways to add some intensity to your walk is to increase your pace, walk uphill or bear more weight by wearing a weight vest. Incorporating more pronounced arm movements also can help a person to work even more muscles and burn more calories.

In order to make the most of your walk, consider the following tips. * Invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes. Exercise can be thwarted by pain in the feet. Comfortable shoes will make it easier for you to stick to your walking regimen.

* Stand up straight and look ahead while walking. Do not stoop or look at the ground. * Bend the elbows and swing the arms a little while walking. * Bring a friend along who can engage in conversation and make the time spent walking go more quickly. Otherwise walk a dog or play upbeat music that encourages you to pick up the pace. * Find a convenient time to walk each day, and look for a new path each day to vary the workout. Walking in beautiful surroundings can make the walk that much more enjoyable. * Start out slowly and then increase the pace and the intensity as you build up more stamina. You also may want to increase the distance you walk as you gain more stamina.

Walking is an exercise that doesn’t require special equipment or a fancy location. People of all ages can benefit in a variety of ways from walking.

Unleash the power of healthy living!

Routine Physical Exams and Yearly Screenings are an important part of good health!

Diabetes • Hypertension • Bronchitis • Fever • Asthma • Ear Ache

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Conyers Medical Clinic 2601 Salem Road, Conyers, Ga. 30013 • 770-922-1880 Hours: M-F 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM • SAT 9:00 - NOON Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

22 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Ganesh Kini, MD Internal Medicine

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1412 Milstead Avenue Conyers, Georgia 30012 800-424-DOCS (3627) www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org

Named to Georgia Hospital Association Core Measure Honor Roll: Trustee Category Georgia Hospital Association

The Joint Commission

National Recognition by Consumer Reports for Outstanding Surgical Safety Outcomes

Awarded Accreditation by the College of Radiology in Mammography, MRI, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy, CT, and Ultrasound

Echocardiography Accreditation for second time

IN GREATER ATLANTA Nationally recognized as one of only three hospitals in the Greater Atlanta area by the Joint Commission as a Top Performer in Quality Measures for Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia and Surgical Care.

Renovated and Expanded to a 20-Bed Level III Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) 189839-1

ROCKDALE PHYSICIAN PRACTICES

Awarded Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 23

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

INSURANCE

Living in the age of Health Care Reform

We are living in an exciting age of Health Care Reform. For some, it is a grand thing, with their dreams coming true of finally obtaining health care, regardless of

their poor health. For others, it’s finally receiving coverage that is “affordable”, within their reach of premiums, due to generous government subsidies.

There is no one unaffected by this monumental transition. Although this ACA reform got off to a bumpy start; it appears it will be a permanent new way of life as far as our health coverage system from this point forward. We must embrace this reality with a full understanding of how this affects employers and employees, as well as those without individual or group coverage. Only by doing so will one achieve their best situation of how to make these new changes work in their best interest.

The “Special Election Options” to allow one to enroll in an ACA Health Care Insurance Plan after the April 15th deadline would be situations such as these: Loss of group coverage, Divorce, Deaths, Births, Adoptions, Change in Immigration status and Moving from state to state. Outside of theses reasons, there are private, non ACA health coverage plans available, that can be applied for currently. There are also “Gap” plans available to fill in the gaps to help on out of pocket costs, before one reaches their deductible limit.

For more information on any of these situations, please call Sheridan & Associates Inc. at 770 760 9474 189645-1

Did you miss out on the April 15th enrollment time for your ACA health coverage plan?

We’re here to help.

Call us to find out what health coverage plans are still available in ‘off season” to protect you and your family.

Afraid you will have large out of pocket expenses before you reach your deductible? We can help. Also We have “Gap” plans available to help out on health expenses incurred before you reach your deductible.

RN, BSN, CSA, CLTC Independent Broker Agent

Call for a free review & consultation.

House Calls and Evening and Saturday appointments available.

770-760-9474 983 O’Kelly St. Conyers, GA 30012

24 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

188991-1

Rhonda Sheridan

Group and Individual Medicare Plans & Part D Life & Long Term Care Coverage

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

FOOT HEALTH The human foot is a biological masterpiece. It’s strong, flexible, and functional design enables it to do its job well and without complaint-if you take care of it and don’t take it for granted.

The foot can be compared to a finely tuned race car, or a space shuttle, vehicles whose function dictates their design and structure. And like them, the human foot is complex, containing within its relatively small size 26 bones (the two feet contain a quarter of all the bones in the body), 33 joints, and a network of more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments, to say nothing of blood vessels and nerves.

Foot ailments are among the most common of our health problems. Although some can be traced to heredity, many stem from the cumulative impact of a lifetime of abuse and neglect. Studies show that most Americans experience foot problems of a greater or lesser degree of seriousness at some time in their lives; nowhere near that many seek medical treatment, apparently because they mistakenly believe that discomfort and pain are normal and expectable.

There are a number of systemic diseases that are sometimes first detected in the feet, such as diabetes, circulatory disorders, anemia, and kidney problems. Arthritis, in-

cluding gout, often attacks foot joints first.

Your feet, like other specialized structures, require specialized care. A doctor of podiatric medicine can make an important contribution to your total health, whether it is regular preventive care or surgery to correct a deformity.

In order to keep your feet healthy, you should be familiar with the most common ills that affect them. Remember, though, that self-treatment can often turn a minor problem into a major one and is generally not advisable. You should see a podiatric physician when any of the following conditions occur or persist.

Bunions are misaligned big toe joints which can become swollen and tender. The deformity causes the first joint of the big toe to slant outward, and the big toe to angle toward the other toes. Bunions tend to run in families, but the tendency can be aggravated by shoes that are too narrow in the forefoot and toe. There are conservative and preventive steps that can minimize the discomfort of a bunion, but surgery is frequently recommended to correct the problem.

Heel spurs are growths of bone on the underside of the heel bone. They can occur without pain; pain may result when inflammation develops at the point where the spur

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General foot health

forms. Both heel pain and heel spurs are often associated with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot. Treatments may range from exercise and custom-made orthotics to anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections.

Ingrown nails are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the skin, often causing infection. They are frequently caused by improper nail trimming but also by shoe pressure, injury, fungus infec-

tion, heredity, and poor foot structure.

Toenails should be trimmed straight across, slightly longer than the end of the toe, with toenail clippers. If the ingrown portion of the nail is painful or infected, your podiatric physician may remove the affected portion; if the condition reoccurs frequently, your podiatrist may permanently remove the nail.

Dr. G. Wayne Newman, Jr. practices podiatry with Associated Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C. in Rockdale County. He is board certified in foot and ankle surgery.

WALK AWAY FROM FOOT & ANKLE PAIN! • Dr. G. Wayne Newman, Jr. D.P.M.

• Board Certified, American Board of Podiatric Surgery • Fellow, American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons In your lifetime, you’ll walk a distance averaging three trips around the earth. Some of the shoes we wear while doing this walking often submit our feet to nothing short of anguish. With demands like these put on our feet day after day, it’s only natural that we occasionally experience some sort of foot or ankle problem. In each of these cases, ignoring the problem could be an invitation to greater pain or additional complications. Call today to schedule an appointment and discuss treatment options.

Same and next day appointments avaliable!

L to R Back: Cassie, Dr. Newman, Deborah, L to R Front: Kasey, Nikki, Cindy

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www.associatedfootandankle.com THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 25

ns a i c i s y h p r u of o e n o e e s o t ons 5 good reas

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26 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Every year millions of Americans over the age of 50 are diagnosed with one of these 5 major diseases.

New technologies and treatments provided by our affiliate practices help our doctors save lives.

BE ONE OF THOSE LIVES. Statistics Source: CDC, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Arthritis & Rheumatism, National Institute of Health, American Diabetes Association.

1412 Milstead Avenue Conyers, Georgia 30012 800-424-DOCS (3627) www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org 188796-1

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 27

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose Veins are caused by weakened valves and veins in the legs

By Beth Slaughter Sexton, Staff Correspondent

“Varicose veins are the result of an improper selection of grandparents,” so goes the famous quote from the late Dr. William Osler, a renowned physician who revolutionized the medical systems in the U.S. and Canada. Recruited in 1888, Osler was one of the original four physicians on the faculty of Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md. And indeed, medical experts say varicose veins often run in families, however, aging also increases the risk. Being overweight or pregnant or having a job that requires standing for long periods of time can all increase pressure on leg veins, which in turn can lead to varicose veins.

Dr. Robert C. Davies of Rockdale Vascular Associates in Conyers, home of The Vein Center is a board-certified surgeon specializing in vascular and endovascular surgery, with advanced training in wound care. Davies received his medical degree from Temple University Medical School in Philadelphia, Penn., and completed his surgical residency and vascular fellowship at Temple University

Hospital.

He is certified by the American board of Surgery and is a fellow in the American College of Surgeons and a fellow in the American Professional Wound Care Association. Affiliated with Rockdale Medical Center, Davies treats a range of vascular conditions including carotid artery repair, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, pacemaker placement and varicose and spider vein treatment, just to name a few.

The doctor explains that our legs are made up of a network of veins and vessels that carry blood back to the heart with a venous system comprised of deep veins and superficial veins.

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins near the surface of the skin. They are most common in the legs and ankles and are enlarged veins that can be blue, red or flesh colored. They are sometimes raised above the skin on the legs and look like twisted bulging cords.

Often misunderstood as simply a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can sometimes progress to a more

serious condition.

Varicose veins are caused by weakened valves and veins in the legs. Normally, one-way valves in the veins keep blood flowing from the legs upward toward the heart.

When these valves do not work as they should, blood collects in the legs and pressure builds. The veins become weak, large and twisted.

Varicose veins can also be a symptom of a more serious condition known as venous reflux disease. Almost 24 million Americans suffer from venous reflux, which is a progressive condition having such symptoms as varicose veins, pain, swollen limbs, leg heaviness and fatigue and skin changes and skin ulcers Those who have symptoms of leg heaviness, aching or cramping, leg or ankle swelling, restless legs, skin changes, burning or itching skin, or lower leg ulcers may be suffering from a form of venous reflux disease.

In venous reflux disease, vein valves become damaged or diseased, resulting in vein valve failure, according to Davies. Reflux or backward flow in the veins oc-

curs. The pooling of blood causes pressure in the leg veins and the increased pressure may cause surface veins to become dilated, or varicose.

At Rockdale Vascular’s Vein Center, patients can receive relief of symptoms through the VNUS Closure procedure. Most patients resume normal activities within one to two days after the outpatient procedure, which is done using local or general anesthesia, the doctor states. He added that the procedure offers a good cosmetic outcome with minimal to no scarring, bruising or swelling and that VNUS is covered by most insurance providers.

The VNUS Closure procedure has become a useful alternative method for the treatment of varicose veins. It can be used for those patients who would previously have been treated by vein stripping. Instead of stripping the vein, the closure device seals the vein shut.

For more information visit our website @ www.rockdalevascular.com or call our office at 678-609-4927.

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28 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

RELAX, NO MORE ACHING, CRAMPING, LEG OR ANKLE SWELLING Signs and Symptoms

Call the Vein Center today and energize your life!

• Spider Veins • Swollen Legs • Cramps • Non Healing Ulcers • Burning • Aching

Robert C. Davies, MD FACS, FAPW-CA

Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

Erikaa Mann, PA-C

1301 Sigman Road NE Suite 130, Conyers

www.rockdalevascular.com

183208-1

678-609-4927

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 29

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

INTERNAL MEDICINE

IMAR fully equipped to help patients from wellness care to managing serious diseases “I strongly believe in preventative health and as such I am a board member for the Georgia Healthy Family Alliance through the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians,” Osselyn said.

“I enjoy being able to help my patients and hopefully, make a difference in their lives,” Wyllie-Adams said.

“I like to teach my patients how to improve their health.”

Dr. Trinidad Osselyn

Dr. Sabrina Wyllie-Adams

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent With two offices to serve the region, Internal Medicine Associates of Rockdale is an outpatient medical practice that helps adults with general medical needs ranging from wellness care to managing serious diseases.

Part of the Rockdale County medical community since 1981, Internal Medicine Associates of Rockdale (IMAR) has physicians who are all board certified and a professional staff that has a combined total of more than 200 years of medical experience.

An affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center, IMAR offers well-care assessment, acute illness management and primary care management for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, cholesterol management and many other conditions.

The practice also provides an on-call physician for after hours, weekends and urgent needs. Patients are seen only by appointment at IMAR’s two Conyers offices; one is located at 1301 Wellbrook Circle and the other is at 2800 Highway 138.

Each patient is assigned to a particular provider as their primary care physician. IMAR has a number of physicians on staff, including Dr. Trinidad Osselyn and Dr. Sabrina Wyllie-Adams.

Osselyn joined the practice last year and Wyllie-Adams came on board in 2012.

A native of Lithonia, Osselyn is a graduate of Lithonia High School and received her bachelor of science degree at Emory University. She went to medical school at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and completed her residency at Palmetto Health University of South Carolina in Columbia, S.C. The doctor became interested in family medicine because of the complications suffered by her maternal grandmother, who had uncontrolled diabetes, including renal disease, amputations, retinopathy and other problems.

“I chose family medicine as a specialty to be able to care for the entire family. It also enables me to focus on preventative care...I believe in the old adage that the best care is preventative care.

“If a patient is aware of their risks for developing certain medi-

30 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

cal conditions, then he or she likely has the ability to make certain lifestyle modifications that could delay or prevent the development of that condition.”

Osselyn said she enjoys the rapport she has with her patients and always likes getting to know them. She also said that as a physician, she is in a unique position to encourage them to make those lifestyle changes that will delay or prevent certain medical problems.

Wyllie-Adams decided as a young girl to go into medicine, but says she was greater determined to continue her studies when her godmother, who was a chronic smoker, died of emphysema while Wyllie-Adams was in college.

The doctor said she chose to go into family medicine because it allowed for diversity in the patients she would be treating and helping to manage their chronic medical conditions.

Prior to joining IMAR, Wyllie-Adams was an attending physician at the State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn. She was also a clinical assistant profes-

sor at SUNY. Wyllie-Adams received her medical education at SUNY Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn and her undergraduate at the City of New York’s Medical School Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education in New York. The doctor is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. She holds a medical license in both New York and Georgia.

Wyllie-Adams did her internship with the Family Medicine Residency Program at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and her residency and chief residency both at SUNY. The doctor is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and was the recipient of the Hyman Merenstein, M.D. Excellence in Family Medicine Graduation Award in 2005.

Originally from Brooklyn, N.Y., Wyllie-Adams moved to Georgia in 2012. A favorite pasttime, when she has time, is doing jigsaw puzzles, but mostly she spends her free time with family and friends.

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+ Well Care

Assessment + Acute Illness Management + Primary Care Management + Cholesterol Management

IMAR GOT ME BACK ON COURSE. “After my heart attack, I didn’t think I’d be back in the game for a long time, but Internal Medicine Associates of Rockdale, P.C. helped me make a full recovery with primary care management sooner than I ever thought possible.”

+ Hypertension + Diabetes + Heart Disease 1301 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, Ga 30012 770-922-3023 2800 Hwy 138 S.W. Suite A, Conyers, GA 30016 770-602-2970

Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT

770-922-3023 or 770-602-2970 www.imardoctors.com 183197-1

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 31

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

WOMEN'S HEALTH

New Beginnings is now offering 3 new rejuvenation services Sotto Pelle • Restored or increased sexual desire • Consistency in moods • Relief from anxiety and depression • Increased mental clarity, focus, memory • Greater capacity for getting the body in shape • Improved energy, exercise tolerance, muscle mass

Botox • Look as young as you feel • Takes care of moderate to severe frown lines between the brows • Treat crow’s feet at the outside corners of the eyes • Long lasting results • No surgery, No Recovery

Juvederm • Smoothes out those parentheses lines along the sides of your nose and mouth • Soft, Smooth, natural look • Long lasting results you can see instantly

Call Ginger – 678-413-0858 Special Pricing until the end of the year!

Free Consults!

1415 Milstead Road Suit B Conyers, GA 30012

Kenya Prade C.N.P.

190089-1

Veronica Garrett M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

naomi Harris M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

sHannon mayfield C.N.M.

190087-1

Come see us atLOOK Our NewFOR Location WE’RE MOVING, OUR NEW LOCATION DECEMBER 2012!

Large, Modern, Brand-New Space with Lots of Parking!

32 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

GASTROENTERLOGY

East Atlanta Gastroenterology offers newest techniques in Gastro Intestinal imaging Our physicians are board certified Gastroenterologists specializing in Digestive Diseases and Nutrition. Specific areas of expertise include: Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention, Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Pancreatic and Biliary Disorders, Liver Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Chronic Constipation.

We offer two full service locations in Conyers and Covington, and operate a satellite clinic at the Cowles Clinic in Lake Oconee.

Office Hours are typically 9AM to 5PM Monday through Friday.

Please call 770-922-0505 to make an appointment or you may schedule an appointment online www.eastatlantagastro.com.

If you require hospitalization, our physicians are on staff at Rockdale Medical Center, Newton Medical Center, and Putnam General. Inpatient consultations can be requested by your

admitting physician.

Endoscopy Our physicians are experts in performing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopies. An endoscopy is a non-invasive exam of the digestive tract using a small fiberoptic camera or “endoscope.” Endoscopies are typically performed under IV sedation in an outpatient setting, and last no more then 30 minutes.

The most commonly performed endoscopy is a Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is the preferred method of colorectal cancer screening and prevention in the United States. Currently, colonoscopy is recommended every 5-10 years in average-risk individuals starting at age 50 (age 45 in African Americans). Most insurance plans will cover a screening colonoscopy as part of “heatlh maintenance” benefits.

Please call your insurance provider for more details.

EAGA is affiliated with Wellbrook Endoscopy Centers which of-

fer two, free-standing outpatient endoscopy centers conveniently located directly adjacent to our Conyers and Covington offices. Wellbrook Endoscopy Centers are Joint Commission Accredited and have been endorsed by the ASGE (American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy). Wellbrook now offers “monitored anesthesia care” during your procedure which allows for a quick, safe, and painless endoscopic experience.

Other endoscopic procedures performed: EGD/Upper Endoscopy, ERCP, Barrx Ablation, Colonoscopy, PEG Tube, Enteroscopy, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy IV Infusions EAGA offers the convenience of outpatient IV infusion therapy. If you require special IV/IM medications such as Remicade, Humira, and Cimzia, these can be administered in our infusion center. Please ask your physician for details.

7229 Wheat Street Covington, GA 30014

Capsule Endoscopy EAGA also offers one of the newest techniques in gastrointestinal imaging called Capsule Endoscopy. Capsule endoscopy, also known as “pill cam”, is the ingestion of a small disposable camera the shape and size of a pill (26mm x 11mm). As the “pill cam” tumbles through the gastrointestinal tract, it capture images and transmits them to a wireless receiver worn by the patient. The receiver is worn for roughly 8 hours and then returned to the office. The receiver is then uploaded into a computer program that in turn creates a video which is then reviewed by your physician. This technique is used to assess diseases of the small bowel and to investigate obscure gastro intestinal (GI) bleeding.

190084-1

1269 Wellbrook Circle Conyers, GA 30012

1000 Cowles Clinic Way | Cypress Bldg., Suite C-300 | Greensboro, GA 30642

NOW OFFERING

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Specializing in Digestive Diseases and Nutrition: n Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention n Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders n Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) n Inflammatory Bowel Disease n Pancreatic and Biliary Disorders n Non-Invasive Hemorrhoid Therapy

Fred A. Levin, MD FACP, FACG

A. Steven McIntosh, MD, FACG

Karen L. Weiss-Schorr, MD

David N. Socoloff, DO

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

FAMILY MEDICINE

Allergies are Prevalent this time of Year!

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent

Often it is the sneezing and wheezing that gives them away.

The allergy sufferers come out in droves this time of year when all the world is abloom. Treating allergies of all kinds is just one aspect

of what Dr. Alvin Griffin of Family Practice of Conyers does for his patients.

“We see a lot of food and pecan allergies and allergies with certain flowers and trees are endemic in the spring of the year,” Griffin said. “The treatment depends on the patient and the severity.”

The doctor said allergies to ragweed, birch, oak and other types of trees and flowers are prevalent this time of year and tests can be done at Family Practice of Conyers to determine the problem. Depending on the patient and the severity of the condition, tests are available to help discover what is causing the allergy and to determine the treatment, which can range from oral medications to allergy shots.

“We check for environmental and food (causes),” the doctor said.

Allergy symptoms often include itchy eyes and skin, sneezing, nasal congestion, wheezing and rash. Seasonal allergies often result from grass, weed, tree pollen or molds. Cat and dog dander allergies are also common, as are food allergies such as those related to peanuts or milk.

Griffin, who has been in the medical field for more than two decades, is a former member of the teaching faculty at Morehouse School of Medicine. He has been in practice in Conyers for more than 22 years.

Family Practice of Conyers, which is located at 1039 E. Freeway Drive, in Conyers takes care of patients of all ages who have a range of conditions from colds to blood pressure problems to diabetes and other issues such as weight

management and prostate cancer.

Griffin is a native of Greensboro, N.C., and went to Fisk University. The doctor went to medical school at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn. and did his residency at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. He also completed two fellowships.

Family Practice of Conyers specializes in offering state-of-theart medical care with a “downhome country” way of serving its patients, the doctor said. The practice has always accepted walk-in patients and Griffin said it always will because people never know when they might get sick and need to be seen by a doctor right away.

“I love what I do,” Griffin said. “I see different things everyday. That’s what keeps me going.”

Family Practice of Conyers

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Dr. Griffin has been practicing

for over 21 years serving the healthcare needs of our communities. He functions primarily as a family practitioner.

Prior to opening his practice, Dr. Griffin acquired extensive post-graduate training by completing two fellowships, faculty development and geriatrics.

• Disease Prevention • Geriatrics • Sports Medicine • High Blood Pressure • Pediatrics • Obstetrics - GYN • Diabetes • Allergies Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

Dr. Alvin V. Griffin

Family Practice of Conyers

1039 E. Freeway Drive, Conyers, GA • 770-922-0076 34 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

ASSISTED LIVING

When is the right time to leave 'home'? High Demand Healthcare Career: Clinical Lab Technician

Few people like to admit their age is affecting them. However, as we age, certain abilities become compromised, and it may no longer be practical for aging men and women to remain in their homes, or at least live there alone.

Comfortable living alone may be a signal to an older adult that he or she still has independence. Taking away a license or suggesting a move may cause feelings of animosity. But at some point in time, friends or family members of an aging man or woman might need to broach the topic of moving to an assisted living facility. Such a discussion can be difficult, but having some evidence that a change is necessary may make the news easier to process. Sometimes the older adult may have already made the decision that a move is necessary, which will make the process even easier.

Moving should never be a knee-jerk reaction unless there is a sudden medical emergency that necessitates fast action. Under normal circumstances, moving should be a gradual process that begins even before a parent, grandparent or other relative really needs to change residences. Here are some steps to keep in mind.

Make sure to develop a strong relation-

ship with your loved one. This relationship should be consistent and keep you in frequent contact so you can best assess his or her living situation.

Talk things over with other siblings or relatives to see if others feel the same way you do. Perhaps they have a different point of view.

If there are problems at home, make your case by pointing them out. Show the elder adult how day-to-day life has grown more difficult and how certain burdens may be lifted by changing living situations.

Indicate that access to health care and a safe environment are some of the key benefits of moving to a senior community. Point out other benefits, such as companionship with similarly aged people, activities, transportation, and the presence of a maintenance staff to ensure nothing falls into disrepair. * Do your research and have the names and amenities of different residences available to discuss. Request brochures from senior communities and offer to make trips to view the homes together with your senior relative.

Not every senior needs to leave home, but the topic should be broached if assistance with day-to-day activities is needed.

1352 Wellbrook Circle • Conyers, GA 30012 morningsideassistedliving.com

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770-922-1654

are sought after for their knowledge and clinical skills. Technicians, who attain an Associate’s Degree or higher, often work under the supervision of technologists.

Technologists generally perform more complex tasks.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2012, approximately half of all medical laboratory technologists and technicians were employed by hospitals.

Other avenues for employment include doctors’ offices and diagnostic labs. In 2012, the median annual wage for medical laboratory technicians was $37,240.

The Bureau estimates employment options for medical laboratory technologists and technicians will increase 22 percent between 2014 and 2022.

Choosing a two-year institution to obtain a healthcare education offers students a bigger bang for their buck! Twoyear institutions of higher learning such as Georgia Piedmont Technical College, provide affordable programs of study that prepare graduates to enter the medical field with certificates, degrees and diplomas.

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• Practical Nursing • Clinical Lab Technician • Opticianry • Phlebotomy Technician • Nurse Aide

At Morningside we understand that taking a vacation or trip can be a challenge for anyone caring for an aging loved one. Our respite program is designed for both long and short term stays and is the perfect solution for: ❖ Taking a break from the care giving ❖ Planning a vacation or business trip ❖ Providing post hospital care for a loved one ❖ Trying out Morningside before making a final decision about assisted living or memory care

In today’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape, surgeons and physicians are becoming increasingly dependent upon services provided by clinical laboratory technicians. Technical colleges are preparing students, and future employees, for these positions. Surgeons and physicians rely on clinical lab techs to conduct tests that may be used in formulating diagnoses. Many of the duties typically undertaken by these professionals may include:

• Analyzing body fluids such as

blood and urine

• Operating sophisticated

laboratory equipment

• Logging data obtained from

medical tests

• Entering results into a patient’s

medical record

• Discussing results of lab tests

with physicians These important positions require, and employers seek, individuals who are trained, ready and proficient in the operation of sophisticated laboratory equipment. Technical college graduates

At GeorGiA Piedmont technicAl colleGe we take medical education seriously. www.gptc.edu 404-297-9522 THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 35

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

HYPERTENSION

Hypertension the Silent Killer

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent While Dr. Anne Grant sees patients for a range of conditions, one in particular gets her heart pumping—but no more than 140/90.

“High blood pressure is a disease that I am most passionate about in helping people gain control,” Grant said.

In her practice, Premier Internal Medicine on Adams Street in Covington, Grant sees patients 15 years of age and older as she helps them with such conditions as diabetes, cholesterol, thyroid and hypertension, to name a few.

She also provides physicals and emphasizes women’s wellness, but hypertension, or high blood pressure is a concern for a number of her patients.

Grant said there are many ailments she and other doctors work with when trying to resolve high blood pressure. The doctor said high blood pressure puts patients at risk for heart disease, kidney disease and stroke. Hypertension is called “the silent killer” because there are often no symptoms, which is why doctors encourage patients to make sure they maintain a check on their blood pressure.

Grant said when doctors talk to patients about blood pressure, they demonstrate it in terms of a larger and smaller number, such as 140/90. The American Heart Association (AHA) considers hypertension to be when blood pressure is 140/90 or higher for people who are under the age of 60. For those who are 60 or older, those numbers change to 150/90 or higher. The two numbers explain the amount of force pushing against artery walls when the heart is contracting and when the heart is at rest.

The top number, which is the higher of the two numbers is called the systolic pressure. It measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, when the heart muscle contracts. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure and it measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats when the heart

“Heart disease and stroke are among the leading causes of death in this country,” Grant said. “If you smoke or have diabetes, then you are at a higher risk of hypertension because it decreases your body’s ability to lower pressure on its own.

The major causes for hypertension are lifestyle and genetics.”

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muscle is resting between beats and filling with blood.

The CDC states that one in three adults in the U.S. have hypertension--more than 68 million people. Because it often has no warning signs or symptoms, the only way to detect whether a person has high blood pressure is to have it checked by a doctor or health professional—a process that is quick and painless.

“It is so important that we all have our blood pressure checked on a regular basis and continue regular checkups with your physician,” Grant said. “If you note that your blood pressure is high, see a medical doctor, be evaluated and comply with the recommended treatment.”

Over time, if the force of the blood flow is often high, the tissue that makes up the walls of the arteries gets stretched beyond its healthy limit, which in turn can create problems for the patient, the AHA states. High blood pressure often does its damage without creating symptoms, but when blood pressure numbers rise above 180 for the systolic pressure or 110 for the diastolic pressure,

a person needs emergency treatment, the AHA warns.

“Steps you may take to help maintain a normal blood pressure include proper exercise and diet,” Grant said. “If you are overweight, then make every attempt to lose weight. Eat a low-fat and low-salt diet. Eat fruits and vegetables.

Lower alcohol intake and stop smoking.

“This might sound simple, but I know it isn’t. This is where my passion is elevated to helping (the patient) do so and when indicated, medications that will help lower blood pressure to normal levels.”

A nurse and physician’s assistant in Georgia for more than 20 years prior to becoming a doctor, Grant attended the Medical College of Georgia where she received her bachelor of science degree to become a physician’s assistant. She received her medical degree from the International University of the Health Sciences at St. Kitts and Nevis and completed her residency at Memorial Hospital in Savannah. Grant is a member of the American College of Physicians.

Walk ins are welcome or call our office at 770-787-5600 to schedule your appointment today.

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JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

ORTHOPEDIC

Athens Orthopedic Clinic expanding services to Newton and Rockdale

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent With its newest location in Covington, Athens Orthopedic Clinic is proud to expand its services to Newton and Rockdale counties. Board-certified orthopedic Surgeon Dr. David Harkins is welcoming new patients at 5303 Adams Street in Covington. Dr. Harkins completed his fellowship in surgery of the shoulder and elbow and he is trained in the most advanced technology for shoulder reconstruction and sports injury surgery.

Common orthopedic problems that Dr. Harkins treats are: rotator cuff tears, arthritis, fractures,

sprains, and other sports injuries.

With a goal of minimally-invasive treatment, Dr. Harkins prefers to conservatively treat patients and only perform surgery when all other treatments have been exhausted.

He is proficient in many surgeries including total joint replacement of the knee and shoulder, MAKOplasty, arthroscopy, and clavicle repair.

Dr. Harkins resides in Monroe with his wife, Jill, and his four children. He enjoys running, karate, and participating in sports - his own and his children’s. He reads and is very active in his church. Dr. Harkins currently serves as Team Physician for Monroe Area High School and George Walton Acad-

emy.

Dr. Harkins says he is very excited about this opportunity and is looking forward to providing high-quality care for Newton and Rockdale County patients.

Athens Orthopedic Clinic has been serving northeast Georgia since 1966 and also has locations in Athens, Monroe, Madison, Loganville, Snellville, Greensboro, and Royston. The Physicians and Physician Assistants at AOC provide personalized care and cus-

tom treatment plans for all types of acute and chronic orthopedic issues. AOC’s goal is to create an environment centered on patient comfort, convenience, and care.

Visit www.AthensOrthopedicClinic.com or call 706-549-1663 to learn more about the practice or to request an appointment.

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ATHENS ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC | Covington

Now Seeing Patients in Covington.

To make an appointment, call 706-549-1663.

Dr. David Harkins Sports Medicine

5303 Adams St. NE, Covington, GA 30014 | AthensOrthopedicClinic.com 38 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

SENIOR LIVING

Senior Lifestyle & Care Options: Navigating the Maze

By Dawn S. Massey, Administrator Yellow Brick House

This is a great time to be a senior. As we age there are multiple life style, housing and care options available at a variety of cost but knowing what to do and when can be confusing. Understanding what is available and how to pay for it helps.

Independent Living - Being independent means taking care of day to day things for your self, managing finances, driving to doctor visits, errands and grocery, and then cooking or eating out. You make your own decisions and manage your own time. If you are in a house you are responsible for maintenance, insurance, and taxes. If you live in an apartment or condominium some of your responsibilities are reduced but you still rely on yourself to meet your own needs. There are many types of support for seniors that live independently, such as children, other family members, neighbors and friends or services available at a cost such as housekeeping, lawn maintenance, security services, and companion services. Home Health Care may be available with doctor’s orders. However, if you are living alone and other people are providing most of the services for you just to keep you in your home, you are really not living independently.

Assisted Living and Personal Care Facilities.

What’s the difference? A few years ago in the State of Georgia all facilities of this type, no matter how large or small were licensed as Personal Care Homes. The state requires that a person living in a Personal Care Home be able to evacuate the home or facility independently in case of an emergency. Evacuating independently means leaving the building by walking or with the aid of a walker, cane or wheelchair. As the type of care offered in Personal Care Homes increased over the years and residents aged in place, some felt it was unfair to ask residents to leave when they were no longer able to self-evacuate. The State of Georgia was petitioned and in response created a new legal designation called Assisted Living. An Assisted Living Facility must have over 25 resident living spaces and provide “assisted self preservation” which means staff members will assist a resident that may not be able to evacuate independently.

The new law requires any facility wanting to be called Assisted Living to re-license themselves and meet new building and staffing standards. To date there are only a handful of facilities in the State of Georgia that have gone through this re-licensing process and many are opting to remain Personal

Care Homes. Both types of facilities are heavily regulated by the State of Georgia and both are called intermediate care. Designed for seniors who need assistance with the needs of daily living for a variety of reasons, intermediate facilities are not medical facilities and do not provide hands on medical care. The benefit of this type of home or facility is that meals, social activities, medication management, housekeeping, laundry and someone on duty 24 hours a day in case of emergency are included in the price. Generally paid for with private funds and long term care insurance; the VA Aid & Attendance benefit may offer some financial help if certain criteria are met.

Memory Care Facilities offer care for those that have memory loss which may be associated with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

Many Assisted Living & Personal Care facilities offer this type of care and generally feature a secured area with increased staff that are trained to work with those that have these unfortunate diseases. This type of care is also regulated by the State of Georgia with special requirements and paid for with private funds and long term care insurance or VA Assistance.

Home Health Care is appropriate when for a

variety of reasons, seniors have need of short term supervision or rehabilitation by skilled professionals. This type of care is provided at home or in independent care, assisted living or personal care facilities for a limited amount of time. Professionals such as physical, speech, or occupational therapist, social workers, registered nurses or wound care nurse specialist can come to you. Also provided are home health aids and medical equipment when necessary. Home Health Care is generally funded by private funds, insurance or Medicare and again for a limited time.

Re-Habilitation Facility - When it is time to be discharged from a hospital going to a medically oriented re-habilitation facility is sometimes recommended by the doctor or hospital staff in an effort provide supervision and skilled care to help the patient recover to full capacity. These facilities can be free standing or connected with a skilled nursing facility and are paid for by private funds, insurance or Medicare if the patient is making progress in re-habilitation.

Advice to seniors – stay positive, eat healthy, get exercise every day, be a friend to others and enjoy the benefits of multiple options available live life to the fullest.

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

DERMATOLOGY

Georgia Dermatology is excited to announce that doctors John Fountain, Allen Filstein and Darryl Hodson have merged

Georgia Dermatology is excited to announce that DR. JOHN FOUNTAIN, DR. ALLEN FILSTEIN and DR. DARRYL HODSON have merged and are now seeing patients at 1349 Milstead Road in Conyers. We are delighted to offer exceptional skin

cancer surgery services and general dermatology for your patients.

Georgia Dermatology provides general and surgical dermatological services, specializing in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and the removal of malignant and benign skin lesions. Mohs is considered the “gold standard” in skin cancer surgery resulting in a cure rate of over 98% and is tissue sparing by not removing excess normal tis-

40 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

sue. With Mohs surgery, there is a complete margin assessment performed and Mohs is appropriate for most malignant skin cancers (Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma) of the head and neck and many aggressive or recurrent tumors.

The organization is well established and well known, having served in Georgia for over forty years, and we are always available to meet the dermatology needs of you and your patients. Together, Dr. Fountain, Dr. Filstein, and Dr. Hodson bring to you over 80 plus years of dermatology experience.

Our practice also has an inhouse pathology lab that services our eighteen locations as well as

several other practices in the area.

Laboratory services include evaluation of skin biopsies and excisions as well as slide preparation and immunohistochemical staining.

Our providers, Dr. John Fountain, Dr. Allen Filstein and Dr. Darryl Hodson will provide medical and surgical dermatologic services in our Conyers location.

We accept most insurance plans, and we welcome new patients and referrals.

Please visit us at GaDerm. com or call us at (770) 785SKIN (7546) to learn more about our practice. We look forward to providing first class dermatology care for you and your family.

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

DIABETES

Diabetes a Common Disease

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent

Located off Parker Road in Conyers, Essential Family Care serves patients throughout the region with everything from ear aches to diabetes. Dr. Sheryl Canady, a board-certified physician specializes in the treatment of hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and weight management.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical School, Canady did her residency at the University of Wisconsin and was part of the Faculty Development Program at Morehouse School of Medicine. She is also trained in adolescent care.

As a family practitioner at Essential Family Care in Conyers, Canady sees many patients with

diabetes.

Early detection and treatment of diabetes can decrease the risk of developing the complications of the disease, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Common symptoms of diabetes include: urinating often; feeling very thirsty; feeling very hungry even though you are eating; extreme fatigue; blurry vision; cuts or bruises that are slow to heal; weight loss even though you are eating more (Type 1) and tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet (Type 2), according to the ADA. Women with gestational diabetes often have no symptoms, which is why it is important for at-risk women to be tested at the proper time during pregnancy.

Diabetes is a problem in the

body that causes blood glucose, or sugar levels to rise higher than normal. This is also called hyperglycemia. The ADA reports Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and those who have Type 2 do not use insulin properly. This is called insulin resistance. At first, the pancreas makes extra insulin to make up for it. But over time it is not able to keep up and cannot make enough insulin to keep the blood glucose at normal levels.

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults and was previously known as juvenile diabetes.

A total of 25.8 million children and adults in the U.S.--8.3 percent of the population—have diabetes, according to the ADA. Diabetes is the leading cause of

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

kidney failure and the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults ages 20-74.

Working with doctors, such as Canady is crucial to patients with diabetes. While diabetes is a common disease, the ADA states every individual needs unique care.

It encourages people with diabetes and their families to learn as much as possible about the latest medical therapies and treatments, as well as healthy lifestyle choices.

People with Type 1 diabetes must use insulin, the ADA states, while some people with Type 2 diabetes can manage their disease with healthy eating and exercise. The doctor may also need to prescribe oral medications and/or insulin to help a patient meet targeted blood glucose levels.

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1775 Parker Road Suite C-240 Conyers, GA

DIABETES

678-609-6282

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Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

Where Courtesy, Respect, and Your Well Being is Our Goal.

Sheryl Canady, MD Board Certified

www.essential-family-care.com THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 41

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

HOSPICE

Struggling with Sleeplessness

By Callie Curington Weber Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator If you have ever experienced a major loss in your life, sleep is one of the ways that it affects our bodies and our lives. Whenever we are under stress, have many changes going ongoing, or issues that we are emotionally processing, the quantity and quality of how we sleep can be affected and altered. Our bodies need sleep. Every person walking this earth requires sleep to not only to rest but for our bodies to recover. If we get no sleep for extended periods of time, it can actually affect our health and can cause delusions, confusion, and ultimately can cause death. According to the Department of Transportation, nearly 4 percent of all highway accidents are caused by sleepiness or drowsiness, particularly in rural areas.

If you have ever struggled with sleep, you know how hard it can be and how much it affects your daily life. You of-

ten feel out of control, on a roller coaster, tired, irritable, and easily frustrated. You can have difficulty focusing on simple tasks and our relationships can suffer as well. There are often two ways that people struggle with sleep: difficulty going to sleep and difficulty staying asleep. If you struggle with getting to sleep, you will often find yourself tossing and turning, becoming frustrated at lying in the bed waiting for sleep to happen. Many people can go sleep easily, but then they often wake up in the middle of the night and cannot return to sleep for several hours.

Both types of sleep loss are difficult.

At times in my life of great loss and struggle, I often have racing thoughts that I cannot switch off. As I am lying in bed, either trying to find sleep or in the middle of the night, I have been unable to turn off my worry, dry my tears, and I don’t want to call anyone because I know that it is ei-

ther too early or too late. Losing sleep and restlessness is a very lonely experience. As we do the work of emotions through grief and loss, it is essential that we strive to take care of ourselves and that means making good sleep a priority. If we don’t rest and rest well, we cannot heal. For anyone that has ever had a wound, you know that is important to tend to the injury, keep it clean, and allow time and healing to occur. The same is true with sleep loss.

We must allow our bodies the best environment to promote good sleep and therefore good recovery.

Here is a list of things to try to help when you struggle with sleep: 1. Try adding light to moderate exercise to your day. If our bodies are more physically tired, it is often easier to go to sleep and stay asleep.

Always consult a doctor before beginning an exercise regime.

2. Limit your caffeine intake particularly late in the day.

3. Take a warm bath or shower in the evening.

4. Remove distractions from your sleeping space. Turn off the television. Get a dim night light.

5. Listen to music just before your bedtime that is relaxing.

6. Drink a warm cup of milk.

7. Meditate, pray, or try some relaxation techniques.

8. Speak to your doctor about your sleeplessness. Often times your primary care physician can prescribe something to help.

As you work through issues of sleeplessness, reach out to a friend, neighbor, minister, counselor or doctor to talk about your sleep loss. Sharing how we are doing with others is one of the best ways to find relief and peace. It is through making self-care a priority that you can find healing and once again find the necessary winks to be able to be the best version of yourself.

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bbey Hospice Care of a loved one in their final days is hard enough.

No one should have to do it alone.

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Abbey Hospice and its 13-bed inpatient unit located in the heart of Walton County, provides home hospice services to the surrounding 17 counties including Newton, Rockdale, Morgan, and Jasper.

42 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Medicare Provider # 111530

770-464-5858 www.abbeyhospice.com

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

ORAL SURGERY

Did you know? ally push themselves out through the gum, requiring little or no action on the part of the individual. Those individuals with a bone spicule in their gums who are suffering from little or no pain might be able to hasten the process of pushing the spicule out by rinsing their mouths with warm salt water several times per day. Those experiencing significant pain should visit their dentists, who will likely prescribe antibiotics to reduce the inflammation and painkillers to treat the pain. Once the pain has subsided, your dentist may then extract the spicule under local anesthesia or refer you to an oral surgeon depending on the location of the spicule.

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It's possible to feel some ill effects of a wisdom tooth extraction even years after the procedure was performed. A bone spicule is a bony fragment or protrusion that may be loose or still attached to the jaw bone after a tooth extraction. Loose, bony fragments may remain in the socket after an extraction. Over time, these fragments can emerge from the gum covering the socket. Because the bone spicule is considered foreign matter by your body, the body produces an inflammatory response, which can prove quite painful and cause swelling and possibly even an infection. While the spicule can initially prove painful, addressing the issue is not very difficult.

Many bone spicules will eventu-

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CONYERS OFFICE 770.483.9692 Fax: 770.922.8603

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MONROE OFFICE 678.345.1014 Fax: 678.345.1018

ROSWELL OFFICE 678.781.0050 Fax: 678.533.0410

BUCKHEAD OFFICE 404.233.5385 Fax: 404.237.5460

COVINGTON OFFICE 770.787.2444 Fax: 770.787.9513

SNELLVILLE OFFICE 770.979.9500 Fax: 770.978.2880

NORTHLAKE OFFICE 770.934.1907 Fax: 770.493.4900

STOCKBRIDGE OFFICE 678.565.0719 Fax: 678.565.3894

grafting and computer-guided The doctors of Oral Surgery Associates and Dental Implant surgery for previously impossible cases. Our doctors also Centers have been providing patients with the latest advances perform the minimally invasive in oral and maxillofacial surgery “Teeth-In-An-Hour” advanced for over 35 years. We practice the computer guided surgery and full scope of oral and maxillofathe “Teeth-In-A-Day” wholecial surgery by providing routine mouth reconstructive surgery.

Intravenous sedation as well as dental extractions, removal of wisdom teeth, dental implant general anesthesia are available to maximize patient comfort. surgery, oral and facial trauma (Front row) Dr. Fulton D. Lewis III, Dr. Steven D. Pollack, Dr. Robert E. Going, Jr., Dr. Gordon L. Brady We welcome patients of all treatment, oral and maxillofa(Back row) Dr. Brett C. Gray, Dr. Brenda J. Hall, Dr. Steven P. King, Dr. Richard S. Singer, Dr. John C. Pritchett Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery ages, and we provide the services cial pathology treatment, oral of a doctor “on call” for our pareconstructive surgery, and the tients needing emergency assistance; 24 hours per day, seven days per week. management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Please visit our website for more information, or stop by any of our ten Each of our nine surgeons is board-certified and has specific certification to perform office-based anesthesia. They are active leaders in professional orgaconvenient locations. Let the doctors and staff of Oral Surgery Associates and nizations as well as local civic and community affairs.

Dental Implant Centers show you that oral surgery can be pleasant for patients In addition to routine oral surgery procedures, our practice places special of all ages. emphasis 189648-1 on all aspects of dental implant surgery, including advanced bone

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 43

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

GYNECOLOGY

da Vinci overcomes limitations of Invasive Surgery

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent

da Vinci uses the latest in surgical and robotics technologies and is used for performing complex surgery.

Advanced Gynecology Associates states the surgeon is 100 percent in control of the da Vinci system, which translates his or her hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the body.

Patients who have been diagnosed with fibroid tumors, endometriosis, excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic prolapse or cancer may consider using the da Vinci system. Gynecology surgery is often performed using either traditional open surgery or minimally invasive surgery.

Open surgery is also called laparotomy and is any surgical procedure in which a large cut or incision is made to reach the

The minimally invasive da Vinci surgery is the latest procedure in treating endometriosis, fibroid tumors and other such conditions and Advanced Gynecology Associates in Conyers is at the forefront in using it to better serve their patients.

Dr. Holly Imlach, a founding member of Advanced Gynecology Associates completed her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Indiana University in 2006, and went on to complete a fellowship in advanced pelvic and robotic surgery in Atlanta. She performs the stateof-the-art da Vinci surgery in treating women suffering a range of gynecologic conditions The da Vinci Surgery system features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and special wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human wrist, according to information from Advanced Gynecology Associates. As a result, the doctor says da Vinci “enables your surgeon to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control.”

organs. The incision must be large enough for the surgeon to fit his or her hands and surgical instruments inside the body. With gynecological surgery, the incision can be horizontal or vertical. Many women are familiar with the horizontal incision, also called a “bikini” incision since it is commonly used for a C-section.

Open surgery is used worldwide for many gynecologic conditions, however Advanced Gynecology Associates states there are some drawbacks due to the large abdominal incision and noticeable scarring.

The most common minimally invasive surgery is laparoscopy in which surgery is done through a few small incisions using a tiny camera and long, thin surgical instruments. The camera takes images

inside the body and those images are sent to a video monitor that guides surgeons as they operate.

The da Vinci surgery makes just a few small incisions instead of a large incision—similar to a traditional laparoscopy.

The surgeon then uses the 3D vision system and wristed instruments which allows him or her to have greater vision and control while performing the surgery. da Vinci “overcomes limitations of both traditional and minimally invasive surgery,” according to Advanced Gynecology Associates.

Imlach, a native of Alaska who received her undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology did post-graduate work in polymer chemistry and artificial joint design at a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. She received her medical degree in 2001 from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle then went on to complete her residency training in Indiana and her fellowship in Atlanta. She has been a member of the medical staff at Rockdale Medical Center since 2007.

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Sophisticated and innovative healthcare

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Urogynecology & Gynecologic Surgery

1380 Milstead Ave. NE Suite E Conyers, GA 30012 678.609.4913 Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center 44 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

• General Gynecologic Care • Comprehensive Annual Exams • Menapausal Management • Pap Smears

Erin Mayfield, DO Gynecology

5154 Cook St. NE Covington, GA 30014 770.788.1778

www.advgynassoc.com

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Tanned Skin is Damaged Skin - Wear your Sunscreen

By Beth Slaughter Sexton Staff Correspondent Since 1998, Dr. Muthu Kuttappan has been helping patients in Rockdale and Newton counties with a range of issues as a doctor who is board certified in internal medicine.

With almost four decades of experience as a physician, Kuttappan sees patients 17 years and older at his practice off Brown Bridge Road in Covington.

One area he reminds his patients about is protecting their skin and the importance of wearing sunscreen.

Unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays in as little as 15 minutes, yet it can take up to 12 hours for skin to show the full effect of sun exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Doctors say that UV rays do

the damage, so even if it is cool and cloudy, people still need protection despite the temperature. Clouds do not block UV rays, but rather filter them and sometimes only a small amount.

As summer arrives, many people begin working on a suntan. Tanned skin is damaged skin, the CDC states. Any change in the color of the skin after spending time outside indicates damage from UV rays and using a tanning bed causes damage to the skin just like the sun.

A history of sunburns and exposure to the sun through work or play are risk factors in getting skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the U.S. The two most common types of skin cancer—basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas—are highly curable but can be disfiguring and costly, according to a report issued by the CDC. Melanoma, the

third most common skin cancer is more dangerous and causes the most deaths. Doctors say the majority of these three types of skin cancer are caused by exposure to UV light.

Other risk factors of getting skin cancer include: A lighter natural skin color; skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily or becomes painful in the sun; blue or green eyes; naturally blond or red hair; a personal history of skin cancer or a family history of melanoma.

Medical experts warn individuals to take precautions against sun exposure every day of the year, particularly between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest and do the most damage. On cloudy days, UV rays can also do damage and can reflect off surfaces such as snow, sand, cement and water.

Protection is simple. Find some shade, especially during the midday;

cover up exposed skin; wear a hat that shades the neck, ears, head and face and wear sunglasses that wrap around and block out the rays; put on sunscreen with broad spectrum and a protective factor of 15 or higher; reapply sunscreen every couple of hours and after sweating, swimming or drying off and avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. The UV rays from those can be stronger than UV rays from the summer sun at noon, the CDC states.

An internist, Kuttappan has been a doctor for almost 40 years, having received his doctor of medicine degree and completed his graduate medical education at Calicut Medical College in Kerala, India in the 1970s. He is also a 1994 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine. Kuttappan is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

183222-1

Enjoy Life to the

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Muthu Kuttappan, MD 14779 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington, Ga. 30014 770-788-7777

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Affiliate of Rockdale Medical Center

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 45

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ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

OB/GYN

Shiraz H. Kassam, M.D., F.R.C.S.C., F.A.C.O.G Practicing in Conyers, Ga and Serving Rockdale and Newton Counties Since 1982

Born in Tanzania, Dr. Kassam studied in India and the United Kingdom.

He then worked in Tanzania and Antigua before proceeding to Canada, where he did his postgraduate studies in Obstetrics and Gynecology. He came to the USA in 1978 to join the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) in Augusta as an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology. At MCG, he was a recipient of the Richard Torpin Award for outstanding faculty. He moved to Conyers in 1982 to establish his practice in OB-GYN. He is also the recipient of the Reader’s Choice Award in 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2013 in Rockdale and Newton Counties.

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Dr. Shiraz Kassam and his staff in the practice of Obstetrics & Gynecology would like to Thank You for your continued support.

Serving you for 30 years with all your needs GYNECOLOGICAL CARE • PEDIATRIC TO GERIATRIC

• Laparoscopy • Abnormal Papsmear • Incontinence • In-Office Ultrasound • Infertility • Menopause • STD Treatment • Endometriosis • Pelvic Pain • Fibroid Tumors

OBSTETRICAL CARE

• Normal & High Risk • Fetal Monitoring • Preconceptional Care and Counseling • In-Office Lab • In-Office Ultrasound We accept Medicaid, Medicare and all insurance plans and provide total obstetrical and gynecological care. (si habla español Bien benido)

770-922-2424

Answering Service 404-609-0557

www.drshkassam.com • drshkassam@aol.com 1380 Milstead Ave., Suite B • Conyers, GA 30012 188975-1

46 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Are you suffering from foot or ankle pain?

At the Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia, we believe that every step you take should be pain-free. Whether you are facing problems with bunions, ingrown nails, sports injuries or even reconstructive foot surgery, we will find the best treatment to get you back on your feet. We pride ourselves in providing patient-centered care, and we work with patients as partners to address their ailments.

Since 1982, the nationallyrenowned podiatrists at Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia have treated patients in the metro Atlanta area and across the state. Now with 21 locations across Georgia, we take an integrated approach to solving foot problems. Our facilities in

Covington and Conyers specialize in the treating of heal pain, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, foot reconstruction, fungal nails, and much more.

Are you currently suffering from foot or ankle pain? Are you tired of struggling with mobility and ready to walk as you once did? Are your feet showing deformities from years of improper foot wear? Are you finished with feeling self conscious about the way your feet look in sandals?

If so, then let us address your foot problems today!

Call one of our offices in either Conyers or Covington to set up an appointment with any of our industry-leading physicians now. You may also visit our website to request an appointment online, or to locate one of our 21 offices nearest you.

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Covington Location: 3152 Highway 278 NE Covington, GA 30014

Conyers Location: 1720 Honey Creek Commons, Suite B Conyers, GA 30013

678-342-3088

770-483-1100

www.AnkleAndFootCenters.com/Covington-Podiatrists www.AnkleAndFootCenters.com/Conyers-Podiatrists

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

ONCOLOGY

Protect Yourself from Skin Cancer

By Kathleen Lambert, MD Georgia Cancer Specialists Your skin is the largest organ in your body, protecting it from injury and infection. Shielding your skin from sun exposure can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and potentially save your life.

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer for those living in the United States and more than two million cases of skin cancer will be newly diagnosed each year. And it doesn’t just affect those who like to layout or visit tanning beds --everyday activities can leave your skin exposed to the sun and increase your risk for cancer.

Protect yourself this sunny season so you can enjoy being outside – cancer free.

• Plan ahead. If possible, avoid being outdoors between 11

a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the most harmful. If you are outside during peak hours, seek shade or covered areas.

• Wear and reapply sunscreen. Choose an SPF of at least 30 and apply at least 20 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming because sunscreen particles break apart after exposure to the sun. When you’re having fun outside, it’s easy to forget to reapply, but remember unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays in as little as 15 minutes. And don’t forget to apply sunscreen on overcast days too --- clouds do not block UV rays; they filter them— and sometimes only slightly.

• Be thorough. Skin cancer can occur in places you don’t expect – the backs of your hands and feet, eyelids, ears, in between your toes and your lips. Be thorough when applying sunscreen and try

using a sunscreen stick for a nonmessy, easy-to-carry option.

• Accessorize. Wear tightly woven, bright-colored clothing that covers most of the body.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat and choose wrap-around sunglasses that absorb 100% of UV rays to help protect your eyes and the surrounding skin.

• Choose wisely. Remember, children can be more sensitive to certain products. When using a new product for your kids, dab a small amount on their wrist.

Consider packing their sunscreen choice to school or daycare, too.

• Check medications. Some medicines, including acne treatment and birth control, can make your skin extra sensitive to sun exposure. Check with your doctor to see if yours may have such an effect.

• Protect yourself indoors.

Many adults think that they only need to wear sunscreen if they

are going to be outside. Wrong.

Driving and working in a building with many windows also puts your skin at risk for sun damage.

UV rays easily penetrate through glass. Wear sunscreen every day to protect yourself year round. Single-use packs can be easily stored in the glove department of your car or at your desk.

• Ditch the tanning bed.

Tanned skin is damaged skin, whether that tan comes from the sun or from a bed. In the US alone, 419,000 new skin cancer cases are attributed to indoor tanning each year. In fact, a recent study reveals that the number of skin cancer cases due to tanning beds is higher than the number of lung cancer cases due to smoking worldwide.

What’s more, continued exposure also brings wrinkles, brown spots, blotchiness and leathery looking skin--- not exactly the “look” you’re trying to achieve when fake 189870-1 baking.

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 47

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

PODIATRY

Overcoming Heel Pain

By James E. Williams, DPM & Ben Sibley, DPM If you have painful plantar fasciitis (heel pain), then you are probably looking for a quick and easy solution to your pain.

Right NOW! You may think you are alone with this one but you are not. There are more than 2,700,000 online searches per month from people just like you looking for answers! You are probably not worried about the how’s, why and what for’s, but are instead looking for plain and simple answers and techniques to get rid of your pain.

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain in western society. This condition is due to an inflammation of the flat band of tissue called the plan-

tar fascia. Its function is to support the arch of your foot when walking. Most people describe the pain as a sharp, stabbing or burning sensation that starts at the heel and tends to spread forward into the arch of the foot. Plantar Fasciitis is agonizingly painful, frustrating and life draining and will get worse without treatment.

Causes The first step in order to receive the correct treatment is to figure out the cause of the condition. Many different factors cause plantar fasciitis, such as, tight calf muscles, injury from running and jumping, arthritis both degenerative and systemic, poorly fitting shoes, systemic disease, poor body posture when running and walking, poor foot posture and foot biomechanics, history of lower

back injury and history of lower limb surgery.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment At Ankle & Foot Specialists of Rockdale we will diagnose your condition and then outline a plan of action to treat it. After your diagnosis has occurred and prognosis determined, we will advise you on the best therapy.

Strengthening and foot flexibility exercises are integral and another treatment used to help with reduction of inflammation and pain. The use and application of ice to the area of inflammation for 10 minutes on and 20 minutes off, usually helps to reduce pain and swelling which also speeds up the healing process.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will help alleviate some

pain. We will also suggest specific stretching exercises of the plantar fascia, achilles tendon. Plantar fasciitis is frustrating and slow to heal but we will work to get you back into life quickly and easily. If all else fails a procedure is available to solve the problem completely by use of the endoscope. A one stitch incision is made on each side of the heel and the inside portion of the plantar fascia is lengthened to eliminate the problem for good.

This is a safe, simple outpatient procedure.

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DO YOUR FEET HURT? There’s No Substitute for Experience.

WE CAN HELP!

Serving Rockdale & Newton Since 1982 There’s No Substitute for Experience. Serving Rockdale & Newton Since 1982.

Dr. James E. Williams, Jr.

• Diplomate: American Board of Podiatric Surgery • Board Certified In Ankle & Foot Surgery • Fellow: American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons

...providing quality care with a gentle touch • Heel/Ankle Pain • Infected/Ingrown Nails • Planter Warts • Bunions & Hammertoes • Corns & Callouses • Flat Feet • Diabetic Feet • Nerve Pain/Neuromas • Sprains & Injuries • Tumors • Joint Replacement • Arthritis • Fractures

1025 EAST FREEWAY DRIVE, CONYERS, GA.

48 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

Most insurance filed • Participate With Most PPO’s, HMO’s, Medicare and Workers’ Comp.

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770-929-3338 www.anklefootspecialists.com

Same or Next Day Appointment

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

IMAGING

Take 30 minutes a YEAR to fight breast cancer!

1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide. The best way to fight breast cancer is through early detection.

The American Cancer Society, the American College of Radiology, and the Susan G. Komen foundation recommend a screening mammogram every year starting at age 40 for all women.

Digital Mammography Specialists (DMS) in Conyers encourages you to take charge of your health with our 30 minute prevention plan. As your local women’s

imaging center, our passion is focused on preventing breast cancer. Utilizing only the best technology and equipment, our radiologists and staff provide expert, compassionate care to every patient.

With same day scheduling and most appointments taking less than 30 minutes, DMS Conyers can help you practice breast cancer prevention. Take charge of your health and call us today for an appointment. We accept all insurances and referrals.

Come experience the difference at Digital Mammography Specialists in Conyers!

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experience the difference.

same-day appointments, same-day results screening & diagnostic mammograms breast ultrasound

Now Open in Conyers 678.904.6823

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THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 49

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

CHIROPRACTIC

Wall of Fame Over the years we at Thacker Chiropractic Clinic have been fortunate enough to treat some exceptional athletes. We showcase pictures of these champions on a wall in our new office, where they give us a chance to share in their success. We call it the wall of fame. Triathletes, cyclists, runners, equestrian competitors, and athletes of all sorts have been effectively treated for a variety of conditions ranging from rotator cuff syndrome, elbow pain, hip pain, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, Iliotibial band syndrome, along with more typical neck, mid back or low back pain, related to the high level of training in their sport.

We’re all prone to those same conditions as a result of much less note worthy activities in our daily lives. Repetitive movements (called cumulative trauma disorder), postural bad habits, over exertion, and injury from weekend warrior activities, create the same aches and pains that world-class athletes have. The end result is pain producing scar tissue or fibrosis at the site of injury, as well as potential painful conditions in areas removed from the injury site because of

changes in the way your body moves as a result of the initial condition.

Postural tension sitting at your computer terminal, repetitive movement from long sessions of typing, or working with your arms extended overhead, can create the same type of shoulder and neck pain that competitive athletes develop as a result of their training.

We are not your typical chiropractic office. Our treatment approach includes the recognition that complete recovery involves addressing all aspects of your pain, including this painful fibrosis and associated movement loss. We utilize traditional effective chiropractic treatment options accumulated over 30 years of practice, as well as the latest soft tissue therapy for these often overlooked fibrotic changes in the soft tissues that are at the root of your reoccurring pain.

Active Release Technique is at the center of this approach. Active Release involves the application of gentle hands on specific movements that “release” these areas of muscle, tendon, ligament or joint movement restriction, to restore normal movement and

remove pain. This approach is effective for virtually any area of your body, including those conditions mentioned above, as well as many others.

Injury or condition specific exercise is also a big part of your recovery that you can use to speed and maximize your recovery. Our new rehabilitation area gives us the ability to train you in all you need to know to allow you to help yourself achieve your best recovery result.

We’re happy to work with your primary care physician or pain management specialist to get your best outcome. Please feel free to investigate Active Release Technique at www.activerelease. com. While you’re there look up Dr.’s Mitch and Steve under the “meet our instructors” tab.

We also perform injury prevention seminars, physical demand assessments, and job specific pre-employment biomechanical

examinations for industry. If you are at a company that would like to learn how we can help reduce your workers compensation exposure through injury prevention and early treatment intervention, please call our office.

Call today at 770-860-8333 to see if we can help, whether you’re a world class athlete or just want to be treated like one.

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THACKER CHIROPRACTIC E F F E C T I V E T R E AT M E N T F O R : Neck Pain Back Pain Sciatica Headaches

Tennis Elbow Golfers Elbow IT Band Syndrome Plantar Fasciitis

Rotator Cuff Syndrome Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Knee Pain Sports Injuries

We utilize all standard chiropractic methods, plus the most advanced soft tissue treatments including, Active Release Technique (ART), and Graston Technique.

Now Accepting Auto Accident Patients

Most Insurance Plans Accepted

• Personalized Exercise & Rehabilitation Program • Industry Injury Prevention Programs 1927 Hwy. 138 • Suite 500 • Conyers 30013

770-860-8333

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Call today for a free consultation to see if we can help!

Dr. Steven Thacker

Dr. Mitchel Thacker

Board Certified Chiropractic Board Certified Sports Physician Chiropractic Orthopedist

50 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

JUNE 2014 SUMMER EDITION

ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

BIRTHCARE

Newton Medical Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and BirthCare Center

Newton Medical Center’s BirthCare Center is dedicated to making the entire birth process what parents want it to be.

Equipped with a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), NMC is designed to give babies a healthy chance at life. From a series of education classes for parents-to-be to the comfort of private LDR (labor, deliver, and recovery) suites, NMC is devoted to making the birth of a child a wonderful experience.

Newton Medical Center offers experienced and compassionate health care in order to provide the best birth experience possible.

The BirthCare Center is designed to make childbirth a beautiful experience for the entire family.

Our private suites are equipped with the latest in medical technology and all the comforts of home. To make your experience uniquely yours, they offer the following options:

Dad or other support persons can be by your side during delivery. Overnight accommodations are available in-suite for Dad. Rooming-in for baby is encouraged.

Our staff of attentive nurses will provide you with helpful advice on caring for your new baby…including feeding, bathing and when to call the doctor.

The BirthCare Center Nurses at Newton Medical Center offer a comprehensive array of educational classes that include prenatal and postnatal instructional support. Such courses include: Prepared Childbirth Sessions Designed for mother-to-be and their partners, this course will guide you through the last trimester of pregnancy and help you prepare for the labor process. Please call during your sixth month to register.

Breast Feeding Classes How will you feed your baby

is an important decision. This class will provide you and your partner valuable information and tips for breastfeeding success.

Infant CPR Be prepared for an emergency life-threatening situation by learning the skills of infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Newborn Care Classes Take the anxiety out of caring for a new baby when you attend a Newborn Care Class recommended during your eighth month.

Sibling Classes Help “big” brothers and sisters of the new baby adjust to life with a new sibling.

Seeing a baby in the NICU for the first time is something that parents never forget. Our nurturing NICU staff is a tightly bonded sisterhood of nurses with greater than 30 years of experience. These nurses form relationships with the families and babies

that promote a comfortable, healing environment for both. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in the care of their baby whenever possible. This provides an opportunity for the staff to begin education long before the discharge process, making families feel very comfortable.

Over 19,500 babies in Georgia have been born prematurely.

Newton Medical Center had the privilege of delivering the March of Dimes 2014 Ambassador Baby, Ella Kate Rider. Ella was born at only 28 weeks and five days. The NICU taught Ella’s parents how to cope with a baby born weeks too soon. While in the NICU, Ella was provided a central line of medication, assistance with her breathing through a CPAP machine, feeding tubes, and a variety of other applications to aid in her growth. Today, Ella is a healthy little girl who continues to thrive each day.

We believe that Newton Medical Center is the ideal choice to have your baby. Whether deliveries are free of complications or babies are born a little too soon, our dedicated doctors and nurses will make sure that every precious bundle gets all the care needed to be healthy. Come see for yourself why Newton Medical Center’s BirthCare Center and Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is an excellent first step in growing your family.

770-385-4355 189994-1

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • 51

NewtoN

medical ceNter

at the Intersection of Compassion and Technology

Do You

Know

?

For babies who begin their journey in life by arriving early and unexpectedly, Newton medical center is equipped with a level ii Neonatal intensive care Unit. on average 10% of all newborns need extra support. our experienced and compassionate medical team of specially trained physicians, registered nurses and respiratory therapists provide the highest level of care to babies born early or with a critical health condition by means of:

• • • • • • • • 5126 Hospital Drive NE

|

Mechanical Ventilation Oxygen Therapy, (CPAP, SiPap, Cannula) Phototherapy Nutritional Therapy Kangaroo Care Breast Feeding Support Continuous Monitoring Cardiology and Vision Specialist

Covington, GA 30014

|

770.786.7053

Tell your physician you want to have your baby at Newton Medical Center!

www.newtonmedical.com 52 • SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

For general information about our BirthCare and our NICU please call 770-385-4355. For more information about our tours and classes, please call 770-385-4182.