Colorado Springs Living Well - Winter 2019

LIVINGWELL COLORADO SPRINGS

Your Health & Lifestyle Magazine

Winter 2019

Building the Workforce of Tomorrow Page 22

INSIDE CITIUS, ALTIUS, FORTIUS // EYES WIDE OPEN FINDING FURNITURE TREASURES // PIVO AT PSF

The SFP Advantage We want to be more than your financial services professional.

We want to be your financial partner.

One of the most important aspects of any relationship is trust. At Strategic Financial Partners we strive to earn your trust.

We are dedicated to providing you with the solutions to address your unique needs and objectives. We are equally dedicated to making sure you understand the solutions we recommend, as well as the many options available to you.

You have worked hard to get where you are today. We want to work hard to help you get where you want to be tomorrow, and into the future.

What is a legacy?

Your legacy is comprised of your core values, the impact you wll have and how you will be remembered after you are gone.

Meet with an SFP Financial Advisor to put your legacy vision into action and start living your legacy today.

Strategic Financial Partners Colorado Springs Office

1755 Telstar Drive, Suite 501 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Denver Office

5619 DTC Parkway, Suite 425 Greenwood Village, CO 80111

www.SFP.us 719-388-0287

John W. Ferguson, Jr. At Strategic Financial Partners, our advisors understand that your quality of life, your CLU, CFS, LUTCF, AIF® goals and dreams, and the legacy you leave for those that follow are of paramount

President & CEO

importance. We’ll help you look ahead with confidence so that someday you will look back with satisfaction. We welcome the opportunity to work with you.

John Ferguson, CLU, CFS, LUTCF, AIF® is a Registered Representatives and Investment Advisory Representatives of Securian Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Strategic Financial Partners is independently owned and operated. TRACKING # 2028430 AND DOFU 022018

Anchorage, AK

Colorado Springs, CO Headquarters

Denver, CO

Leawood, KS

Odgen, UT

Salt Lake City, UT

For stroke survivors, rehabilitation can be one of the most important parts of recovery. Our hospital offers innovative, customized therapy programs to improve function and strength, getting patients back into the community for the activities they love most.

Learn more at ehc.news/livingwellcsmarch19

The Joint Commission DiseaseSpecific Care Certification in Stroke Rehabilitation

325 Parkside Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80910 719.630.8000 encompasshealth.com/coloradospringsrehab

Stroke rehabilitation— Life-changing results Š2019:Encompass Health Corporation:1520729

FLYING HORSE 2032 Ruffino Drive - $585,000 4 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms + office on main, 5 baths, open floor plan, 3-car garage.

KISSING CAMELS 2561 Chilson Lane - $710,000 3 bedroom, 4 bath home, all on one level, 2-car + golf cart garage, updated kitchen, views.

S O L D KISSING CAMELS - THE PARK 1501 Camel Drivers Lane Kevin Patterson Represented the Seller and Buyer

KISSING CAMELS - THE GREENS 3826 Hill Circle - $849,900 3 bedrooms, master / office on main, 3-car garage, backs to golf course, terrific views.

KISSING CAMELS 3840 Brushland Court - $882,500 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, 3-car garage, elevator, main level office, gourmet kitchen, views.

KISSING CAMELS 5031 Lyda Lane - $899,500 One-level home, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 2-car garage, backs to golf course, incredible views

THE VILLAGE AT STRATTON PRESERVE 1855 Cantwell Grove - $949,000 5 bedrooms (2 on main), main level office, backs to open space, mountain and city views.

PINECREST AT PINE CREEK 9811 Highland Glen Place - $950,000 5 bedrooms, master and office on main, oversized 3-car garage, Pikes Peak views.

THINKING ABOUT SELLING?

Call Kevin!

PINECREST AT PINE CREEK KISSING CAMELS 9991 Highland Glen Place - $1,295,000 3930 Hill Circle - $1,150,000 If your property is currently listed by another broker, please disregard this offer. It is not our 4 bedrooms, spacious master and office on 5 bedrooms (3 on main level), office, 3-car intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We cooperate with them fully. main, elevator, 3-car garage, amazing views. garage, private entertaining areas, views.

S O L D KISSING CAMELS KISSING CAMELS SA LE PENDING 3545 Hill Circle 3820 Camelrock View - $1,395,000 Kevin Patterson Represented 4 bedroom, 6 bath golf course home with 3-car garage, spectacular outdoor spaces and views. the Seller and Buyer

BROADMOOR RESORT COMMUNITY 4235 Stone Manor Heights - $2,250,000 6 bedrooms, master / study on main, 8 baths, 4-car garage, over 1.7 acres, incredible views.

GARDEN OF THE GODS CLUB 3198 Spirit Wind Heights - $2,750,000 3 bedroom suites, 5 baths, 3-car oversized garage, elevator, stunning views.

A Leader in Residential Home Sales Kevin Patterson, Owner, CRS,GRI The Patterson Group KISSING CAMELS 800.900.1775 / 719.575.1200 N 3267 Viridian Point ~ $899,900 R O DE CTI Kevin@PattersonGrp.com N New Construction Completed in 2019.

U RU T S 4 bedrooms, 2-car garage + room for golf cart. www.PattersonGrp.com N O

C

Example of The Mesa Plan - Actual Construction May Vary

WELCOME

LIVINGWELL COLORADO SPRINGS

Your Health & Lifestyle Magazine

Fall 2019

from the Publisher’s desk

Winter 2019 Edition Designed and Printed in Denver Colorado

PUBLISHER & FOUNDER Joshua D. Cates CO-FOUNDER & CFO Bob Cates EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nancy Kay White

Shifting gears heading into 2020.

As we enter into the Holiday Season and New Year, Colorado Springs Living Well Magazine will celebrate 15 years in print. Hard to believe how fast the years have gone! This milestone got me thinking about the direction LW will take in 2020. We have featured many amazing cover stories of celebrities over the years, but beginning in this issue, and in future issues, we will grace our covers with some of the pivotal companies and community assets in our great city. To kick us off in style, we have chosen the beautiful, snowcovered campus of UCCS as a prelude to what’s coming in 2020.

My wife and I have two daughters, ages 16 and 13. Life’s hitting us at a million miles an hour in this special time of teenage years. I think frequently about what professions our girls may choose. Personally, I didn’t graduate business school and think, “I want to be a media guy.” With the influx of digital and social media, my career path took a major shift in 2006. A quote from the UCCS article, “Building the Workforce of Tomorrow,” resonated with me. It reads, “We teach students how to think, not what to think. Why? Because many of the jobs our students will have in the future don’t exist today.”

If you have a business or community asset in mind as you read this, I encourage you to be proactive, drop me an email to josh@tenpeaksmedia.com, and tell me why you would love to see this spotlighted on our next cover.

Until our Spring 2020 edition, we wish you and yours a warm, safe, and enjoyable holiday season filled with laughter, joy, thanksgiving, and remembrance. We understand some of our readers will face this holiday, having experienced the loss of a loved one. All of us at LW send you our sympathy, knowing it will be a challenging time.

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY Don Jones Studio 9 Commercial Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Ron W. Pelton, Pinnacle Dentistry, Rich Schell, Dr. Allison Nicklin, Shreya Krishnan Dr. Ted Archdale, UCCS, Encompass Health, Andrea Sinclair, Jo an Selman Dr. Reagan Anderson, Dr. Douglas Nguyen Dr. Katharine Leppard ART & DESIGN www.TenPeaksMedia.com SUBSCRIPTIONS subscribe@COLivingWell.com www.COLivingWell.com/subscribe LETTERS TO THE EDITOR editor@COLivingWell.com ADVERTISING SALES Joshua D. Cates (830) 388-8110 Josh@TenPeaksMedia.com

DESIGNED AND PUBLISHED BY

Warmly,

Proud Partner of

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10 Peaks Media tenpeaksmedia.com

LIVINGWELL COLORADO SPRINGS

Your Health & Lifestyle Magazine

Winter 2019

COVER STORY page

22

UCCS At UCCS, we teach students how to think, not what to think. Why? Because many of the jobs our students will have in the future don’t exist today.

Building the Workforce of Tomorrow Page 22

INSIDE INSIDE CITIUS, ALTIUS, FORTIUS // EYES WIDE OPEN FINDING FURNITURE TREASURES // PIVO AT PSF

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All advertisements in this Magazine are placed by third parties. We do not sell, distribute or provide any of the goods or services advertised herin. We hereby expressly disclaim any liability with respect to the goods and services herein. We further disclaim any and all warranties or representations, expressed or implied, with respect to such information. We are not liable or responsible for any loss, injury, damage or harm that you may suffer as a result of the information contained in any advertisement or goods or services contained herein. “We” refers to the name Colorado Springs Living Well Magazine.

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SUN DAMAGED SKIN

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GREAT NEWS FOR TRAVELERS

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HOW ARE WE FAIRING AS AMERICANS

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REUNIONS BY DESIGN

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PILATES: THE ULTIMATE REHABILITATION

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ARE YOUR KIDS HEALTHY

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STUCK IN THE MIDDLE

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DEALING WITH UNEXPECTED LOSS

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UCCS ARTIST SERIES

24 26 28 30

THE DIABETES EPIDEMIC

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ST ANTHONY’S PARAMEDIC ACADEMY

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CULTURE AND THE BUILD

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ACID REFLUX

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THIGH NUMBNESS AND PAIN

WHAT SHE REALLY WANTS WHY REHAB IS IMPORTANT 13 TIPS ON HOW TO SAVE

Subscribe online now and claim your free subscription to Colorado Springs Living Well!

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We treat kids with their minds in mind.

Kids can’t always explain what’s wrong, what hurts or how long something’s been happening. Which is why we’re experts in figuring it out. And why the first step of our treatment is making kids comfortable.

By doing little things like letting parents stay in the room, giving kids choices and walking them through procedures in ways they can understand, we can get kids to relax, feel safe and open up. So we can treat them more effectively.

Kids are incredibly different.

They need incredibly different care.

Children’s Hospital Colorado complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. • ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-720-777-1234. • CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-720-777-1234.

Home is where

the cookies are.

A cookie cutter neighborhood Gold Hill Mesa is not, but we mix in all the ingredients that make life sweet.

Gold Hill Mesa’s builders offer a tasteful array of floorplans sprinkled with a color-ful palette of architectural styles, front porches, parks and greenspaces.

The popular Art on the Mesa exhibits and Music on the Mesa concerts, gym and community center, and award-winning Premiere Salon and Genesis MedSpa are icing on top. Whether you seek solitude or socializing, you can find it at Gold Hill Mesa, where we create a sense of place to savor more free time. Gold Hill Mesa’s recipe for a sweeter life includes breathtaking surroundings, artful and diverse home designs, and a sense of community.

Gold Hill Mesa—Lifestyle by Design, Where Life Really is Sweeter!

/GoldHillMesa | GoldHillMesa.com 142 S. Raven Mine Dr. Colorado Springs

Eyes Wide Open Are your eyes sending the right message?

Maybe George Herbert said it best, “The eyes have one language everywhere.”

By: Dr. Ron Pelton

H

ave you ever noticed how many songs there are about the eyes?

Brown-Eyed Girl, Green-Eyed Lady, Ebony Eyes, Blue Eyes, Behind Blue Eyes, Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain, Lying Eyes, Mystic Eyes, Sad Eyes, Bright Eyes, In Your Eyes . . . and on and on. Maybe that’s because we communicate so many thoughts and moods using only our eyes. We read and

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understand even very subtle messages that are sent by the eyes. A narrowing of the eyes may indicate concentration, wide-open eyes may indicate surprise, a rolling of the eyes shows disgust, and your soft eyes with dilated pupils tell the speaker that you appreciate them. Patty Wood, a body language expert, notes that the nonverbal communication that we give with our eyes can show over 50 different moods.

What are your eyes saying?

Maybe George Herbert said it best, “The eyes have one language everywhere.” Whether it’s extended eye contact, quickly shifting eye movements or an everted gaze, your eyes are sending messages – intentionally or not. Droopy upper and lower eyelids may be telling the world that you are tired or sleep deprived or even angry when actually you aren’t.

Gravity and time work to slowly pull your forehead, brows, and lids downward causing this appearance.

But there are things we can do to help alleviate these signs of the aging face.

Cosmetic Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty Cosmetic upper eyelid blepharoplasty is one of the most common surgeries that I perform. The surgery is an outpatient procedure that usually takes about 30 minutes. Many patients find the surgery to be similar to a dental procedure (you don’t have to change clothes, you don’t remember the procedure, and you go home right afterward).

The anesthesia can be as light or as deep as you wish. Once the patient is comfortable and the skin is numb, the “extra” skin tissue that droops over the lashes is gently trimmed away in the lid fold so no scar is visible when healing is done. A very small clear suture is used to close the wound. There are NO patches or bandages over the eyes. The day after the surgery, most patients carry on with their normal routine – driving a car, doing house chores, watching TV, working on their computer, and going for a walk. You will develop some degree of bruising but this usually goes away in 7-10 days and normally you can return to work in a few days. Most patients use only non-prescription pain relievers.

Cosmetic lower eyelid blepharoplasty is similar to upper eyelid surgery. The most common complaint of the lower eyelids is the protruding fat bags that cause “dark circles,” making one look tired

and worn-out even after a great sleep. These fat bags are not fluid, so creams and ointments do very little to improve them. The only long-term solution is to remove the fat by gently sculpting it.

I’m often asked if I’m going to liposuction the fat away but this is not possible in the very thin and fragile eyelid tissue. Typically, the unwanted fat is removed through the inside of the eyelid so no scar is visible. The recovery is essentially the same as for the upper eyelid surgery. In fact, upper eyelid cosmetic blepharoplasty and lower eyelid cosmetic blepharoplasty are often done at the same time so you have only one recovery period.

Other Possibilities In addition to eyelid surgery, other cosmetic procedures can be done to enhance the eyes as well as the areas around the eyes. Botox can greatly soften the wrinkles caused by squinting and smiling (the smile lines or crow’s feet area). It can also help to soften or even eliminate the furrows between the eyebrows that make some patients look angry even when they aren’t. Skin treatments such as chemical peels are also part of the weaponry we use to fight the signs of aging. Fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and others also help to smooth and improve the wrinkles that tell the world that you are old, tired, and angry.

“The eye is the jewel of the body.” ~ Henry David Thoreau.

The eyes are the most expressive of our facial features and they reveal the status of our physical and emotional health. Make sure that your eyes are sending the message you want the world to see. If you aren’t sure that you are a candidate for cosmetic blepharoplasty or other beautyenhancing procedures and you want to find out more information, schedule an appointment with our office. We can evaluate you for any issues related to your eyelids.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ron W. Pelton M.D., Ph.D. is a native of Benton, AR. He has lived in Colorado Springs, CO and has been in solo practice in oculo-facial plastic surgery since 2000. Dr. Pelton graduated from Vanderbilt University Medical School in Nashville, TN and subsequently completed his residency in Ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX. Dr. Pelton then completed a two-year fellowship in oculo-facial plastic surgery at the University of Utah prior to opening his practice in Colorado Springs. Dr. Pelton is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.

2770 N Union Blvd // Colorado Springs, CO 80909 // (719) 329-0040 // www.drpelton.com

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Cracks that Form Inside Teeth Diagnosis and Intervention Can Save a Tooth for Life

By: Pinnacle Dentistry

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common problem that results in the breakdown of dentitions is cracks that form inside teeth.

These cracks can be very painful, but more commonly, will not cause any discomfort.

All cracks, even the ‘silent’ ones, when left untreated, are capable of turning into fractures, root canals, or even tooth loss. Cracked teeth deserve a discussion because they lead to the most invasive and costly forms of dentistry. Proper diagnosis and conservative intervention can literally save a tooth for life. The goal of modern dentistry needs to be avoiding future dentistry.

A question we hear frequently is, “Why did my tooth crack?”

If we first look at a perfect natural tooth, free from decay and restoration, we know from laboratory testing that this tooth can take a tremendous amount of chewing forces before we would see any signs of cracking or damage. This is due to the makeup and mechanical properties of the dentin and enamel that comprise a tooth. Dentin is what makes up the inside of the tooth and is somewhat soft and compressible. Enamel is the outer layer of the tooth and is a very hard substance (the hardest 12

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substance in the body). It is also very wear-resistant. These two very different substrates work together very well by allowing tremendous forces that are placed onto the harder enamel surface to be absorbed and dissipated by the softer dentin inside. Our teeth under function actually deform slightly every time we clench, chew, or grind.

Now we can talk about a tooth that has decay in it.

The decayed area must be removed by a dentist and the resulting void or hole in the tooth receives a filling to restore it. The filling materials are historically made of either silver amalgam, gold, porcelain, or composite resin. By placing a filling, either small or large, we are introducing a third material into the tooth; and the physics of how a tooth handles the stresses of chewing, clenching, or grinding is significantly reduced. Even a small, simple filling has the potential to decrease the fracture resistance of a back tooth by 60% or more.

Now add into the equation several decades of use on teeth that have fillings and we will see stressinduced cracks on both the outside and inside of those teeth. Other common factors that will contribute

and concentrate stress on teeth are ice chewing, hard foods, trauma, and improper bites (malocclusion).

So, what is a crack and how do you know if your tooth has one?

The simplest way to think about a crack is an area where one side is not connected to the other side.

Cracks can and usually start small, but eventually propagate with the addition of force over time. We all have seen an example of this with cracked windshields, especially if you have lived in Colorado for any length of time. When a crack elongates and opens, we often see it progress to a fracture or a complete split of the tooth. Depending on the location and direction of the crack, you may experience painful symptoms or you may not have any. A crack that starts on the outside and extends into the tooth will create a pathway

for bacteria to travel deep inside the tooth creating an opportunity for nerve inflammation and decay. Common symptoms are pain when biting, sweet, and sometimes cold, sensitivity. As mentioned above, most cracks will not give you any symptoms.

As dentists, we rely on several methods to locate and treat cracks, even the ones that are not symptomatic. These methods include high magnification loupes to visualize better, staining the cracks with dies, sandblasting, and transillumination (angled light to illuminate the crack).

Improve the function of your smile and allow us to create longlasting, beautiful solutions for you.

We want all our patients to keep their teeth in function for a lifetime, therefore, we continually look for cracks inside and on the outside surfaces of teeth and will suggest the appropriate treatment for each individual case.

Historically, it was taught that all teeth with cracks into the dentin layer immediately get a crown. But now we have conservative techniques and better materials to restore a tooth in a way that seals the tooth from bacteria and mimics the way natural teeth respond to stress. Cracks may be completely removed, sealed, or bridged as a part of any restorative procedure. Every time a tooth requires work, we consider that the perfect time to re-engineer a way for the tooth to handle the demanding forces placed on it during a lifetime of use.

When re-engineering and restoring a cracked tooth, it is also important to look at other teeth that come in contact with the cracked tooth. A bit of preventative dentistry can avoid cracks from developing at all. Reshaping sharp cusps or other susceptible areas on chewing surfaces will help distribute forces better throughout the teeth. Also, the use of specific restorative materials that match the behavior of natural dentin and enamel are very promising for long term dental restorations. Other prevention techniques we may use include the use of nightguards, orthodontics to change forces on the teeth, and caries (decay) prevention to keep the natural tooth structure intact.

Dr. Brad Perrett

Dr. Thomas Jennings

Stay Healthy!

We strive to maximize your well-being by providing comfortable, conservative, long-lasting, beautiful solutions that are creatively designed to eliminate unnecessary treatment.

Pinnacle Dentistry offers a variety of services to keep your teeth healthy for years to come!

Improve the look and function of your smile by visiting Dr. Thomas Jennings and Dr. Brad Perrett.

Briargate Business Center 2430 Research Pkwy ¡ Suite 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 Info@PinnacleDentistryCO.com 719.590.7100 - PinnacleDentistryCO.com Winter 2019

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Men, Don’t Overlook Your Mental Health

Mental Health Correlates to Heart Health By: Dr. Kern Low, Medical Director

N

ot everyone realizes they can speak to their primary care doctor about depression. Men sometimes have the toughest time even bringing the subject up with their provider.

Depression manifests differently in both men and women, and much of the time a man may not even realize they are depressed because these feelings often manifest as anger or aggressiveness instead of loneliness or sadness. Men are less likely to address their depression or seek treatment than women, yet depression affects a large number of men.1 The CDC reports that nearly one in ten men feel some depression or anxiety every day and almost one in three men have gone through a period of major depression at some point in their lives.2

cardio-vascular inflammation.2 Data on men’s depression shows men often have different symptoms than women, which in addition to the previously mentioned, also includes the abuse of drugs or alcohol and 2 having trouble sleeping. These particular symptoms can put men at risk for heart problems by putting extra stress on the heart and raised blood pressure. Occasionally, depression can appear as other physical issues, like a racing heart, tightening chest, ongoing headaches, or digestive 2 problems. Depression is caused by a combination of risk factors that include genetics, environmental stress, and illnesses. Environmental stress can include factors such as financial stress, relationship issues, and major life changes.3

Depression doesn’t just affect your mental health; it also directly connects to one’s heart health. Long-term depression can lead to unhealthy behaviors like overindulgence in alcohol, food, and tobacco. Depression can be responsible for a lack of sleep, sleeping too much, or living a sedentary lifestyle. People with depression are more likely to develop other conditions that lead to heart disease, such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other forms of

Although depression can affect a man at any age, there are treatments and solutions to becoming and staying mentally healthy. Seeing a mental health professional about treatment for your depression is one of the most common ways to improve both your 1 mental and long-term heart health.

If you have already been diagnosed with a heart problem now though, it would be best to speak to your family doctor immediately about any of the depressed feelings you’re having.

Men who aren’t ready to see a therapist yet can also begin their mental health journey by speaking about their concerns with their regular doctor. Modifying your daily behaviors can also help decrease or prevent depression. Try to incorporate more physically activities (daily is great, but three times a week is a good start!), watch what you eat and drink, reduce or eliminate the use of tobacco products, and of course, communicate openly with a loved one. Talking to a trusted family member or friend will lead to a stronger support system that can help you with healthier habits like finding a gym buddy or healthier grocery shopping.

Mental health is an important part of a person’s overall health and shouldn’t be looked over or neglected. We hope that all men and women seek out the treatment they need, but if they’re too nervous or hesitant to begin the process of finding a mental health care provider, a great place to start is with their family doctor. If you or a loved one suffers from depression, you’re not alone. Book an appointment with your family doctor today and start your journey to a happier and healthier life.

We’re committed to keeping all of our sons, fathers, grand-fathers, brothers, uncles, nephews and friends feeling their best.

Talk to your provider to learn more about men’s health, including:

Celebrating Men’s Health

To learn more or request an appointment visit MVMG.com

Resources 1 https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/men-and-depression/index.shtml 2 https://www.cdc.gov/features/mens-health-month/index.html 3 https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/men-and-depression/mendepression-508_142046.pdf

© 2019 Optum, Inc. 30466

• Heart health and EKG testing • Healthy eating and Body Mass • Blood pressure and cholesterol Index (BMI) monitoring • Regular physical activity • Annual physical exam • Diabetes & prostate cancer screening • Testicular self-exam

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Citius, Altius, Fortius - Faster, Higher, Stronger By: Shreya Krishnan

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cauldron has been lit and a thousand generations live in us. A community can forge the leaders of tomorrow. How will our experiences shape our future contributions? What will the youth of today do to further the achievements of our predecessors? As we see the baton approaching, will we be ready to grasp it and take off? As a high school student in Discovery Canyon Campus, I am confident my generation will carry on the torch of greatness we have inherited; we will move faster, soar higher, and work hard to get stronger.

The Community The ideals and culture of a community shape its people.

Close your eyes and imagine a place where you enter a coffee shop and the lovely owner is a former Olympian. A city where the beautiful purple mountain majesties slope down towards your classroom window. A city that has a garden fit for the Gods. Open your eyes…your fantasy is my reality; this is the city I call home. This is Colorado Springs!

When you live in Olympic City USA, it’s only natural that Olympic and Paralympic ideals inspire our way of life. It is not uncommon to see an athlete hiking or biking up Pikes Peak, or climbing up the Manitou Incline, as a part of the training regimen. These athletes inspire me to achieve my goals despite any hurdles, obstacles, and competition. The ideals and culture of my community push me to figure out how to become a leader and a better person, going for gold.

The Experiences - Faster My experiences have shaped my philosophy of “attitude at altitude,” with its foundation being a strong work ethic. In middle school, I participated in the twoyear Mayor’s Ticket to Success leadership program, where I learned about the different careers within city government. I provided feedback to PlanCOS - the blueprint for the development of Colorado Springs for the next 15 years. The program taught me the complexities of running a city and how residents can and should get involved at all levels.

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Performing arts, an integral part of my life, has taught me the value of time management and hard work. I have learned that to fly, first you must be willing to take a leap. It has definitely paid off as I have been selected to sing at Carnegie Hall next year!!

Last year, I was selected by my school to be a Young Champion Ambassador, a youth leadership program, based on Olympic ideals, that guides high school students to become worldwide Ambassadors of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum and Olympic City USA. Through this program, I had the opportunity to visit the Olympic archives and saw the very first medal awarded in the modern Olympics, held an Olympic torch, and visited the larger-than-life exhibits in the Space Symposium. These experiences helped me develop leadership skills and broadened my understanding of what career paths are available to me.

This year, I was privileged to travel to Normandy, France to sing the U.S. national anthem at the American Cemetery to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The youth of World War II made the ultimate sacrifice and remembering them led me to tears. While in France, I performed at La Madeleine in Paris in front of an international audience. Earlier this year, I was selected to sing in the National Honors Choir, under the direction of Derrick Fox, who brought to life the value of musicianship and team work to make 200 voices sound as one. Learning how to listen to others and pick up on cues to function as one is an invaluable lesson.

Next year, I am excited to travel to Ancient Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the Olympics and Paralympic movement. Being connected to history, specifically Classical Greek history, the foundation of Western civilization, from which the U.S. has based many of its foundational principles, will tie together the lessons of my academic curriculum. Having a community that provides trajectory altering experiences allows anyone to reach their potential faster.

The Youth - Higher The Greeks contributed much to government, architecture, philosophy, the scientific method, medicine, and the performing arts. Performing arts, an integral part of my life, has taught me the value of time management.

When everything else in life keeps me grounded, the expressive nature of the arts is what allows me to soar higher. I am a pianist, violinist, dancer, singer, and actress. As such, balancing a grueling rehearsal, performance, and competition schedule, with a rigorous academic curriculum, and consistently making the Principal’s Honor Roll, has been a valuable life lesson.

Sometimes, the lessons learned come with difficulty; performing arts also comes with rejection. Our attitude determines our perspective. I have had to learn to work hard, be dependable, and move on to the next role.

Hard work definitely pays off as I have been selected to perform at Carnegie Hall next year. I have learned that to fly, first you must be willing to take a leap.

I believe in lifting those who may need help to go higher. I have served as a dance mentor for kids with disabilities through the Positive Note program, help raise money for kids recovering from cancers through the St. Baldrick’s foundation and breast cancer walks, and volunteer at several organizations. My city and peers/family have changed the trajectory of my life; it

brings me great joy to know I am doing the same for others.

At PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic Games

I am a youth ambassador for the Tyler Clementi Foundation, working to end all forms of bullying by developing change-making campaigns, organizing fundraisers, and leading activities. I am working on recruiting one million “Upstanders,” people who will take action rather than being a bystander. As a spokesperson for the anti-bullying and suicide prevention campaign, spearheaded by the Colorado Springs Conservatory, last year, I had the opportunity to engage with 10,000 elementary and middle school students in the Pikes Peak region. It was heartbreaking to hear the stories of bullying and I decided the first step to end bullying is to make a personal commitment to stop it. To effect public policy change, it was important to seek support from our elected officials, so I participated in the Colorado Springs City Council and El Paso County Commissioners meetings. When you feel at an all time low, a helping hand can lift you higher. I have been able to achieve all of this and more due to the opportunities offered by my community and the support of the people around me. However, I am not alone; many in my generation are involved in so many positive activities and creating positive change.

Today’s youth is committed to a better tomorrow.

Passing on the Baton - Stronger Today’s youth shall build upon the achievements of our predecessors; I am one of them. Eventually, we will pass the torch onto tomorrow’s youth. Our community and experiences shape our futures. I am fortunate to have teachers, friends, and family, who push each other to achieve our full potential and make us stronger. We will await the baton as you round the corner and will grasp it with deliberate firmness, as we take off in a full sprint. Rest easy and be assured your posterity and legacy are in good hands. Citius, altius, fortius.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Shreya is a 15-year-old, working on her IB Sophomore project, training for her classical dance graduation performance, and preparing for the speech & debate & FBLA season.

Winter 2019

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Give Your Butt a Good Spanking Engage Your “GLUTES” for a Kick A$$ Time

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ou wake up, roll over, and prepare to stand when a sharp pain hits in your back and continues from that moment onward . . . all day at your desk, in the car, on the couch . . . the thought of exercise curls your toes.

What’s wrong, you think?

Diagnosis: Weak Butt Syndrome So commonly, we let our backsides slide and we can thank our sedentary, technological lifestyle for letting our largest most metabolically active muscles turn into couch pillows. From sport to everyday activity, the gluteals, “glutes ” for short, are essential for power, endurance, function, and pain prevention.

Get to the “Bottom” of It The buttocks or gluteals, consist of three distinct muscles: the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus.

Spanning from your torso to your legs, the gluteal 18

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complex connects to the sacrum, pelvis, and femur.

Functionally these three muscles act as powerful stabilizers to the back, pelvis, and lower leg.

The gluteus maximus, the largest of the three, functions to assist with upright posture, and just about any movement that requires power to move you up, down, and sideways. It acts to extend and rotate the hip outward, or laterally, and gives shape to your “booty.”

The gluteus medius is a fan-shaped muscle that lies between the gluteus maximus in minimus.

It functions to abduct and rotate your lower leg inwardly, and during walking it helps to stabilize the pelvis preventing a drop of the opposite side. Fibers on the backside of the muscle also help to produce a little bit of outward or lateral rotation of the hip.

The gluteus minimus is the deepest and smallest of the muscles and functions to abduct and rotate the lower leg inwardly, stabilize the pelvis, and prevent dropping of the opposite side.

Google these exercises for a couple of ideas: Hip hinge/deadlifts Hip extension, step back with resistance tubing or cable Kettlebell hip thrusts Bulgarian/Sumo/Lateral Pistol squats

Why be a Hard A$$?

Stabilizing the core and pelvis, the gluts act as a firm foundation to allow other muscles to be more effective. Performing any activity with a soft rear end is like drag race car with wimpy shocks and a moped engine.

Whether you’re lifting, jumping, or shooting some hoops, your glutes provide that explosive power that comes from extending your hips.

While core work is certainly important, the glutes are the powerhouse that surrounds the pelvis.

Because they are not as active as other muscles during routine activities, they are prone to atrophy and weakness. Most strength training exercises don’t isolate the gluts.

So why are the glutes so inactive? Well, the first and most common reason for underactive glutes is “glute amnesia “ or rather what I call “ glut coma,” where your glutes simply go to sleep because of inactivity, i.e., sitting or slouching. Unless you are standing or applying resistance to your bum, they will take a nap.

Weakness increases your chance of lower back, sacroiliac, hamstring, and even Achilles’ tendon injury.

Wake Your A$$ Up! Training the glutes goes way beyond squats and lunges. To enhance overall strength, performance, injury prevention, and improve your look in jeans, your glutes need direct and frequent attention. Compound, multijoint/directional hip and pelvis exercises are most effective to put a fire under your butt!

Sit all day? Consider a sit-stand desk at work, hit the stairs instead of the elevator, or take for a few round trips up/down for some butt pounding activity. Grab a resistance band, place a loop above your knees, and walk/lunge back, from side to side.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Butt-Burner In addition to the functional and prevention benefits of kicking your own butt comes the metabolic, fat burning benefit. Your gluteals are the largest muscle in your body, so adding resistance training to this region has a huge calorie and fat burning benefit.

So . . . go ahead and kick some BUTT! You’ll be thankful in the “end.”

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Keep it KICKIN’ in 2020,

Dr. Allison Nicklin is the Founder and CEO of Revolution Rehabilitation , independent Physical Therapy Orthopedic and Sports Medicine practices est. in 2007 . Visit revrehab. com or call 719-635-8622 for more detail!

OFFICE LOCATIONS South: 155 Printers Parkway Suite 125 Colorado Springs, CO 80910 North : 595 Chapel Hills Drive Suite 245 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80920 Winter 2019

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Holiday Grief and the Impact Donors Make We’re proud to offer our community grief and loss support services year-round thanks to the help from our generous donors.

By: Joan Selman, Executive Director Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation

L

osing someone you love is one of, if not the most, painful emotional experiences a person might ever endure. So, when the holidays creep up on the calendar, it’s no surprise that the pain of their loss may feel magnified.

As the holiday season approaches, those who have or who are currently experiencing the end of life journey of a loved one are in need of support.

Many of which connect with Pikes Peak Hospice & 20

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Palliative Care’s Center for Grief and Loss seeking grief support services.

Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care’s dedicated team of compassionate care professionals are here to provide their support to those in need not only this time of year, but year-round. We are proud and honored to be able to offer support groups, grief services and grief counselors to anyone in our community who needs help.

Due to the support from our generous donors, we are able to provide these services to our community and services like our annual presentation, “Hope and the Holidays”, to people who need them especially this time of year. This session includes a general discussion of the grief process, practical suggestions on coping, and creative ways to utilize rituals and remembrances. Presentations are traditionally held in November prior to Thanksgiving.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ways to Give: Direct To Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation. Donors may make a contribution directly to Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation for any approved program being conducted. This can be done by mailing a check, or making a contribution on-line at PPHPC.org.

If needed, donors may call the Foundation directly at 719-4578104 and credit card information may be taken over the phone.

Empty Stocking Fund. This annual fundraiser benefits 20 local nonprofits, including Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care, that serve neighbors in need. The fund provides resources for local health and human service agencies on the front lines of helping people in need. Every dollar donated grows up to 45.3% through matching funds.

Colorado Gives Day. This annual statewide movement celebrates and increases philanthropy in Colorado through online giving. For 24 hours beginning at 12 a.m. donations will be accepted via ColoradoGives.org. Simply visit the site and type “Pikes Peak Hospice” under the “Donate Now” prompt.

Visit ColoradoGives.org for more info.

Enterprise Zone. Pikes Peak Hospice Unit at Penrose Hospital is an Enterprise Zone (EZone) Project. Our inpatient unit is essential in addressing the specialized medical needs of our patients. Of the 1,700+ patients we serve each year, more than a third receive care at our inpatient unit at some point. Call 719.457.8104 for more information.

There are many ways to show your support of local nonprofits in your community. For more information about Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care’s Year-End Giving, visit www.PikesPeakHospice.org.

Joan Selman is the Executive Director of Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation. Joan has been at the forefront in delivering quality of life for tens of thousands of residents in El Paso County during their end of life journey due to her fundraising efforts for Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation.

ABOUT PIKES PEAK HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care is the largest and only not-for-profit hospice and palliative care provider serving El Paso and Teller Counties. It provides outpatient hospice services in patients’ homes and extended care facilities and also delivers care at the 16-bed Pikes Peak Hospice Unit at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs.

Services also include a robust palliative care and consultation program and comprehensive grief support for adults and children. The organization also participates in We Honor Veterans, a national program jointly developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Call 719.884.6530 for next steps.

Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care 2550 Tenderfoot Hill Street Colorado Springs, CO 80906 PikesPeakHospice.org

Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care’s Center for Grief & Loss is available to anyone in the community experiencing the loss of a loved one, regardless if we provided end of life care to the person who died.

Winter 2019

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Cover Story // UCCS

UCCS

Building the Workforce of Tomorrow

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s we think about the hidden gems in our community, we forget that these gems are often sitting in plain sight. Thousands of people drive past the campus on Austin Bluffs Parkway and never stop to think about the great things that are happening at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS).

For example, did you know that more than 12,000 students are enrolled at UCCS this year, and almost 20 percent of them are affiliated in some way with the military? Or that the latest report shows that the University has an economic impact of more than $600 million?

Sure, UCCS has a beautiful campus with amazing views of Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak, but a university is more than just the buildings.

When the concept of a university started hundreds of years ago, it wasn’t about a building, 22

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or even a collection of buildings. It wasn’t a place, or a destination. It was about the people.

The students who were seeking knowledge.

The faculty who were sharing and creating knowledge – testing the limits of what was possible and knowable. The mission-driven staff that helped manage the complexity of the university system and propel its success. And the alumni and community that grew around them – making all of their lives richer, and helping the university thrive.

At UCCS, we teach students how to think, not what to think. Why? Because many of the jobs our students will have in the future don’t exist today.

“I often say that education provides a strong foundation for the rest of a student’s life,” UCCS Chancellor Venkat Reddy recently remarked. “No matter what kind of house they build on it, they know that they have a strong base for the life they create for themselves.”

By: Chris Valentine

Of the 46,000 UCCS alumni, over 50 percent live and work right here in El Paso County.

UCCS is building the workforce of tomorrow – just as we have been doing for the past 50 years. Our vision stems from the legacy of David Packard, a founder of the Hewlett-Packard Co., who helped establish UCCS in 1965 to continue to educate the firm’s engineers.

Of the 46,000 UCCS alumni, over 50 percent live and work right here in El Paso County.

Our community has let us know that there is a need for healthcare workers in Colorado Springs, as well as engineers and teachers. As technology advances and community needs change, UCCS continually adds to its 50 bachelor’s degrees, 24 master’s degrees and seven doctorate degrees to build the future workforce of the region.

William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center One example of how UCCS is growing to meet the needs of the community is the William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center. This new facility will open in 2020 and represents the most profound opportunity for transformative, cross-disciplinary,

interprofessional education and research for UCCS in the near term and will affect the campus and its academics for decades to come.

For students, the center will offer a transformative education with opportunities to make a difference in the field of health and human performance. They will have the unprecedented ability to learn from both faculty researchers and clinicians, all located in a cutting-edge, immersive facility treating both elite athletes and regular patients. By 2021, the Exercise Science degree program is expected to attract more than 1,000 new students. The Hybl Center will house these students and foster their education in fields that will continue to help elevate health and wellness in Colorado.

“My final project was the big win in my United States Olympic Training Center interview,” UCCS graduate Lindsay said, recalling the undertaking in which she used performance modeling software to track athletes over a year of quantified training.

With a master’s degree in exercise science from UCCS, Linsday walked into the offices of the U.S. Olympic Training Center in 2014 to interview for her dream job.

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Cover Story // UCCS

Her preparation made the interview a success; the USOTC offered her a position as a sports physiologist. Now, she works with athletes daily on improving their health and overall performance.

Featuring a foundational, science-based curriculum, the Human Physiology and Nutrition Department prepares students for a wide variety of healthrelated careers. Graduates find employment or go on to pursue professional training in fields such as physiology, nutrition, exercise science, athletic training, physical therapy and medicine.

“I grew up immersed in sports and developed an appreciation for the impacts of nutrition on performance and overall well-being,” said Liz. “After studying biology in college, I began to realize that I could integrate the science with food and nutrition applications, which is what led me to the Sport Nutrition program at UCCS.” Liz is now working on her master’s in sports nutrition. “The program at UCCS provided me with the invaluable experience of being an intern at the Olympic Training Center in the Food & Nutrition department, where I learned the hard work and commitment that goes into a high-performance food system and how to creatively provide nutrition education for athletes that come and go through the training center.”

Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences Career options for those with nursing degrees are extensive and abundant – in Colorado Springs and around the world. Hospitals and out-patient facilities need nurses, but so do many other sectors of the healthcare industry, from schools and military bases to substance abuse centers, home health programs and insurance companies. The Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health 24

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Sciences has been training nurses for more than 100 years. While working toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing or working to become a nurse practitioner, students spend time in the classroom, laboratory and clinical settings to develop the hands-on skills needed for a career as a healthcare professional.

“All of the faculty in the nursing program are devoted to helping students reach their goals,” said Michael.

“And they really work on a personal level to support each student.”

Michael’s dream job is to be a flight nurse, but he recognizes that this is a highly sought-after role and he knows he will have to work hard to get there.

One of the best tools he has found is the simulation lab, where nursing students are able to practice the technical skills of nursing in a safe, simulated environment. All of this hands-on practice ensures they will be the region’s most prepared graduates, ready to dive into the workforce immediately following graduation.

Michael is on track to graduate with his bachelor’s in nursing with a plan to work as an ER or ICU nurse.

Along the way, he plans to gain the experience needed to become a flight nurse.

College of Education Colorado faces a shortage of more than 3,000 teachers, with shortages even more deeply pronounced in rural areas. With a goal of filling this need, the UCCS College of Education enrolls both undergraduate and graduate students to prepare them to be successful professionals in schools and communities. Programs include master’s degrees in counseling and human services, teaching and learning, leadership, a Bachelor of Innovation in inclusive early childhood education and a Bachelor of Arts in inclusive elementary education. 54 UCCS faculty and staff serve almost 1,000 students.

“Ever since I can remember, I have always struggled in school,” said Ashley. “I barely graduated high school. I dropped out of college back in 1996 after five years – yes, the day my art history professor told me I should quit. The summer after I turned 40, I was at a crossroads: I was a paraprofessional in an early childhood/preschool program, and I decided that I wanted to be the teacher that I needed. The teacher all students need and deserve. I was the first to enroll in the Bachelor of Innovation in inclusive early childhood education, and I was the first – and only – graduate in May of 2015. I chose this major because it gave me the tools needed to support, teach, grow and love our youngest learners.”

Ashley is currently enrolled in the Master of Arts in special education program at UCCS, with a dream of teaching inclusive early childhood education classes full-time on campus. The old saying is, “a goal is simply a dream with a deadline.” With more than 12,000 students enrolled at UCCS, there are more than 12,000 stories of student success to tell – stories of students who have taken a dream and created a plan to reach it. The successes of our alumni are a testament to the past 50 years we have spent developing the workforce of today. Each day, we work for that same goal: to help students develop the knowledge and skills they need to reach their dreams, and creating a brighter future for the communities we call home.

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Get Her What She Really Wants The place to shop this holiday season.

F

amily owned and operated since 1988, the distinctive variety of high-quality jewelry and exceptional service sets Johannes Hunter Jewelers apart as the leading jeweler in Colorado Springs. Inside our doors, you’ll find extraordinary jewelry, both timeless classics and the top trends, and people who truly love helping you find memorable gifts for your loved ones.

It’s the season of engagement proposals, anniversaries and special gift-giving centered around friends, family and festivities. There’s no time for stressing over your holiday shopping list! We’ll make finding the perfect gift for under the tree fun and stress-free.

She’ll Say “Yes” To The Ring Just starting your research about engagement rings?

Stop in or schedule an appointment with us to learn everything you need to know about rings and diamonds beyond the “Four C’s.” You’ll leave feeling legendary and confident with your choice. And she’ll be over-the-moon with The Ring!

Something Truly Unique Create a striking one-of-a-kind design with our large collection of beautiful gemstones and diamonds. Or repurpose your personal gems or family heirlooms. Our in-house jewelry specialists and goldsmith will turn your idea into reality. She’ll be reminded of your love each time she looks at your unique design.

Well, What About Him? Shopping for him can be tough. Discover our versatile selection of giftware beyond jewelry, like luxurious pens or mesmerizing self-rotating globes. A unique gift is waiting for the man you love.

Did you know Johannes Hunter Jewelers produced a line of educational videos? Just search “Johannes Hunter Jewelers” on YouTube to hear directly from Robin Johannes on a variety of topics helpful for engagement ring buyers.

You’ll Be The Best Santa Of All Come visit Johannes Hunter Jewelers to start and finish your shopping list! Our knowledgeable staff is ready to make it a stress-free experience as soon as you walk through the door – pop in at your convenience or give us a heads-up with a scheduled appointment. Check out our extended hours for the holidays.

She Wants Jewelry! (Seriously, She Does!)

Whether it’s a pair of gleaming diamond earrings or a vibrant stack of gemstone rings, if it’s wrapped in our purple box, she’s sure to love what you have chosen long after the tree comes down. Not sure where to start? Our specialists are here to guide you to find the perfect gift based on her personal style, her favorite color or her birthstone.

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Where To Get Her What She Really Wants

Across from Costco in the University Village Colorado shopping center, Johannes Hunter Jewelers is located at 5182 N. Nevada Avenue, Suite 100. Colorado Springs 80918.

SCHEDULE NOW @JHJewelers 719-208-9820 719-633-8982 johanneshunter.com/holidays

How Inpatient Rehabilitation Can Benefit Patients With Parkinson’s Disease

P

arkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder with an unknown cause that affects dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

The disorder develops gradually, causing tremors, stiffness, slowing of movement, and other non-motor symptoms that may include depression, sleep and behavioral disorders and cognitive impairments.

Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, treatment and therapy can reduce the side effects and teach coping techniques, helping patients experience a better quality of life while living with the disease.

Encompass Health Rehabilitation hospital of Colorado Springs knows that Parkinson’s disease carries its own unique challenges, and is there to help patients through comprehensive plans of care that combine clinical expertise and advanced technologies, helping them find a clearer path forward.

Who can benefit from Parkinson’s disease rehabilitation?

Patients in all stages of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders may benefit from the therapies offered in a specialized rehabilitation program.

“All individuals with Parkinson’s disease are good candidates for rehabilitation, whether recently diagnosed, young onset, or they have been diagnosed for 20 years,” said Ryan Mueller, physical therapist at Encompass Health Colorado Springs. “Medication for PD helps reduce some symptoms, but exercise and guidance from a therapist help create neuroplasticity to reduce symptoms and progression of the disease and increase safety and mobility.”

Establishing the right program for you At Encompass Health Colorado Springs, each patient’s Parkinson’s disease treatment program is unique, designed to meet patients where they are in their journey.

The program first assesses a patient’s strengths and weaknesses based on specific skills including balance, mobility, coordination, speech and cognition, swallowing, nutritional needs and self-care skills.

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Based on assessments of a patient’s abilities, a patientspecific program will incorporate a multidisciplinary team of specialists that may include physical, speech and occupational therapists—all of which play a unique role in rehabilitation.

“Some of the newer research regarding physical therapy is that high intensive and aerobic exercise to increase heart rate can ultimately help create

neuroplasticity and release important brain factors that assist with neuro-repair and slow progression of the disease,” Mueller said. “Speech-language pathologists usually look at speech production and attempt to use amplitude to improve quality and volume of speech; they also can address cognitive changes and observe swallowing. Occupational therapists can use the same principles, listed above, to address tremors, daily activities and self-care.”

The team also may include neurology, nutrition, respiratory therapy, psychology and case management, all working cohesively to help patients achieve their greatest possible outcomes.

Treatment through technology At Encompass Health Colorado Springs, technology also plays a part in a patient’s treatment plan, Mueller said. That technology can range from something as simple as a metronome to the advanced technologies available in the state-of-the-art therapy gym, which includes:

can help improve gait through stride length, step continuity, speed and reducing heel drag.

The Biodex balance platform can help patients regain lost mobility and reduce the risk of falling by retraining stability and balance recovery.

To aid in swallowing, the VitalStim may be used.

This technology aids in gaining improved muscle contractions and swallow function that might be weakened due to symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Repeated therapy helps to gradually retrain the muscle groups to complete the swallowing process.

Advantages of targeted therapy While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are many ways individuals can manage symptoms, thus improving quality of life.

Parkinson’s disease programs like that of Encompass Health Colorado Springs are designed specifically for each patient with the goal of returning them to independent living.

To improve walking, the AutoAmbulator, a treadmill device that supports body-weight with a harness,

For more information on Parkinson’s disease or available therapies and treatments, call Encompass Health Colorado Springs at 719 630-8000.

About Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs provides high-quality inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for patients overcoming a variety of illnesses and injuries. The hospital serves patients who are recovering from conditions such as stroke and other neurological disorders, cardiac and pulmonary conditions, brain and spinal cord injuries, complex orthopedic conditions and amputations. The team at Encompass Health Colorado Springs, which includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, speechlanguage pathologists, physicians, case managers, pharmacists and dietitians, work together to help patients reach their highest levels of independence.

Visit encompasshealth.com/ coloradospringsrehab to learn more.

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Glaucoma Detection and Prevention Once vision is lost to glaucoma, it can’t be regained.

By: Dr. Ted Archdale

G

laucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss, affecting about 3 million people in the United States. Because there are no symptoms early on, about half of people with the disease don’t know they have it. Once vision is lost to glaucoma, it can’t be regained. During Glaucoma Awareness Month this coming January, Archdale Eyecare wants to remind the public that early detection and treatment, and some lifestyle choices can help protect your sight.

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. Typically, the disease progresses slowly, gradually destroying peripheral vision. Because people are unaware of early peripheral vision loss, a patient can lose most of it before they even know they have glaucoma.

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That’s why for the detection of Glaucoma the doctors at Archdale Eyecare recommend that everyone have a comprehensive eye exam at age 40. This exam provides your eye doctor an opportunity to carefully examine the eye, including the optic nerve, for signs of damage and other possible problems that may affect vision. Individuals at greater risk for developing glaucoma include people: > Over age 40 > Of African, Asian, or Hispanic heritage > Who have high eye pressure detected during an eye exam > Who are farsighted or nearsighted > Who have experienced eye trauma or eye injury > Whose corneas are thin in the center > Who have health problems such as diabetes, migraines, high blood pressure, or poor blood circulation.

Appropriate treatment for glaucoma depends on the specific type and severity of the disease. Medicated eye drops or laser treatments are the most common initial approach. These techniques work by lowering eye pressure to reduce the amount of fluid in the eye, and by increasing fluid outflow from the eye.

Beyond drugs and surgery, several recent studies suggest that lifestyle choices may also help minimize the risk of losing vision to glaucoma.

Exercise regularly.

A study published in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, showed that people who engaged in physical activity can slow vision loss from glaucoma.

Meditate.

A new study published recently also showed that a relaxation program with meditation can lower eye pressure in glaucoma patients and improve their quality of life by lowering stress hormones like cortisol.

Don’t use CBD as a “natural” glaucoma remedy.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the non-psychotropic component of cannabis and hemp being touted as a magical cure-all. A study published last month in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science shows it actually raised eye pressure in mice.

Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially green, leafy ones.

One study showed that people who ate more leafy vegetables have a 20 to 30 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma. Why? Nitrates in green vegetables can be converted to nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and help regulate pressure inside the eye.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Don’t smoke.

Dr Ted Archdale, Archdale Eyecare

Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of glaucoma and has an overall negative impact on eye health.

Maintain a healthy body weight.

People with a higher body mass index (BMI) are at increased risk for diabetes, and having diabetes puts people at risk of glaucoma. Having a too low BMI is also associated with increased glaucoma risk.

Call today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam.

South Office 1541 S 8 th Street Colorado Springs CO, 80905 719-577-4400 North Office 7095 Lexington Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80918 719-638-4010 Winter 2019

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HOLIDAY CATERING . . .

TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS!

V IEW OUR HOLIDAY MENUS: PBcatering.com Take it easy and relax this holiday season. Let us do the work! Our professional staff will set up, serve, and clean up!

We’ll help you plan the perfect open house, staff celebration or holiday event!

RESERVE YOUR DATE NOW! CALL (719) 635-0200

719.447.0077 isawitfirstconsignments.com

719.475.1200 richdesignshome.com

1731 Mt. Washington Ave. | COS, Colorado 80905 | Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 – 5 Follow us:

Where Do I Go for Medical Care?

Five Questions You Should Ask Yourself

By: Carolyn Moore, MD, Family Medicine Centura Health Physician Group Primary Care St. Francis

B

etween planning meals for the holidays, travel reservations, and chasing down gift ideas, the last thing on your mind this winter is how you will take care of medical issues that come along when it’s least convenient. When injury or sickness do force themselves into your attention, you want to know the fastest, safest, and most convenient way to get back on your feet. Here are five questions you should ask yourself when deciding when you need to visit the emergency room (ER), urgent care (UC), or a primary care physician (PCP).

1

How severe are your symptoms?

Go to the nearest ER immediately for new onset chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness or difficulty talking, sudden vision loss, heavy bleeding, or severe injuries to the head, large bones, or spine. Alternatively, if you have a sore throat, rash, pulled muscle, rolled ankle, minor cut, or bladder infection, an outpatient urgent care or primary care visit is a better option. The average cost of an ER visit is three to five times more expensive than the cost for an UC or PCP office visit for the same issue.

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2

Is the problem new (acute) or old (chronic)?

The best use of the ER is to address what the name suggests: emergencies. This incredibly valuable resource is best utilized if you think you are sick enough to be in the hospital or need surgery. If you have a new, minor illness or injury, this can usually be addressed with your PCP or in an urgent care setting. If you want to address a long-standing issue and your symptoms are not severe enough for the ER, then starting with your PCP is the best option.

3

What resources are available?

Even medical professionals find a challenge in getting patients to the right care venue to take care of specific needs, and not all hospitals have the same resources available. Knowing which hospitals are best for trauma, stroke, cardiovascular disease, OB, and pediatrics can make the difference in saving your life.

4

Is there someone I can consult before I go?

Most primary care offices will have an on-call nurse or provider line for after-hours questions. These are valuable in helping you decide which facility would be best and how quickly you need to go. You will save time and potentially make a better decision by calling ahead.

5

What time of day (or night) is it?

Inevitably things come up outside of office hours, and this is where the urgent care is most helpful. For non-emergent conditions that can’t wait until your PCP can schedule you (or if you just can’t miss work tomorrow), urgent care can get you on your way quickly. Some PCP offices are colocated with an urgent care or have an after-hours clinic and can send the note directly to your primary doctor if you need a follow-up visit for the same issue.

Remember that a little preparation goes a long way toward successful and efficient care. Plan ahead with these suggestions:

Know your health, including the status of your conditions. If you have had a cardiac stent or other hardware, can you have an MRI? If you have had recent antibiotics, what was the medicine called? If you have diabetes, what was your last A1C? Carry a list of your medications, with dosing and frequency. Medical professionals can determine your chronic conditions based on what you’re taking.

Go to a facility where your providers can share information. Not all medical records are interchangeable, and knowing this can save extra visits, money, and frustration. For example, if you already have a cardiologist and you develop chest pain, know in advance the name of the hospital where your cardiologist works. If that hospital is too far during an emergency, you can still ask the team treating you to send him (and your PCP) a copy of the visit, which is much more detailed than your discharge paperwork.

Establish care with a primary doctor before you get sick. He or she can also answer questions about this topic at your next annual physical. If it’s during office hours and your primary care clinic can see you for a nonemergency, this is the best option.

Invest in understanding what your health insurance covers (and what it does not).

Visit https://www.centura.org/primary-care to find a provider near you with online scheduling and appointment availability as soon as today, tomorrow or in the coming week.

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Sunscreen Myths By: Dr. Jon Bielfield

blocks 98 percent of the sun’s rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation requires a minimum UPF of 30 for clothing to be considered sun protective. UPF 50+ rates as excellent protection.

There are many companies/stores that offer UPF specific clothing. Examples include REI, Sierra Trading Post, and Costco. Online outlets such as Coolibar and Amazon are other sources. More and more stores are offering this option.

Myth: Sun-protective clothing is cumbersome, heavy, and uncomfortable False

Myth: Winter is coming. No need for sunscreens?

False Sure, the temperatures are falling. But, the sun is still very powerful at higher elevations in Colorado. Don’t get a false sense of security with snow. Skiing makes you very vulnerable to the damaging effects of the sun. You are typically on elevations much higher than normal.

The white snow acts a perfect medium for reflecting the ultraviolet rays and causing damaging sunburns.

Question: Won’t my ski coat and winter clothing be enough protection?

Answer: Clothing offers some degree of sun protection.

Multiple variables should be accounted for. Clothes with tighter weaves, darker colors, less stretch, newer condition tend to offer more protection.

Ultimately, you want to know the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) for your clothes. A fabric with UPF 50 36

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The advances in UPF clothing are impressive. Shirts and pants are breathable and adaptive to most environments. They are meant for an active lifestyle.

Clothing is a great way to cover most of your body from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. However, sunscreen is still very useful for highly vulnerable areas such as the face, neck, and hands.

There are two categories of sunscreens: organic (chemical) and inorganic (physical). What is the advantage/disadvantage of organic (chemical) vs. inorganic (physical) sunscreens?

Dermatologists tend to favor inorganic (physical) sunscreens. The reason is they have a more direct effect of blocking dangerous ultraviolet rays. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide found in inorganic (physical) sunscreens reflect the sun’s rays and scatter them away from our skin.

Newer generation zinc/titanium sunscreens have revolutionized their look and feel. Gone are the days of the white-painted nose. The updated sunscreens are smooth and easily rubbed into your skin. Specifically, look for zinc and titanium sunscreens that have micronized preparations. The particles are smaller, thus absorb much easier with application.

Organic (chemical) sunscreen absorbs ultraviolet rays and converts it to a negligible amount of heat. This tends to be less effective than inorganic (physical) sunscreens. Popular ingredients in organic (chemical) sunscreens include cinnamates, salicylates, benzophenones, and avobenzone.

Regardless of what sunscreen you prefer, make sure it is labeled as a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This means it is capable of protecting against the various types of ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB). Look for a minimum SPF of 30, and use a higher SPF if you are still getting red or sunburns.

What are the benefits of wearing sunscreens?

There is evidence that regular use of sunscreens can decrease your risk of skin cancers. This means fewer visits to the dermatologist, less surgery, scars, and time away from work and family.

Considering use of inorganic (physical) sunscreens is an alternative for individuals concerned with these findings.

Of course, sun-protective clothing also offers a great alternative solution.

Additionally, the use of large-brimmed hats is successful in covering your scalp, face, and ears. These are some of the most common spots for skin cancers to form.

In summary, there are several options when it comes to sun protection. Use the ones that you are most comfortable with.

Bundle up and enjoy all of the great outdoors that Colorado offers this winter!

NOTE: The above advice is general medical information.

Please consult with your primary care provider and dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Aging (photoaging), skin discoloration, sun spots, and wrinkles accumulate over time with repeated exposure to the sun. We all strive to look and feel our best. Getting in the habit of daily sunscreen use can pay dividends to your self-confidence and general appearance. It could also save you time and money with cosmetic procedures!

Question/Concern: Recent news reports suggest that sunscreens may be dangerous to our health. What should I do?

Answer: A recent study by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association addressing this concern.

The study looked at the ingredient’s avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, and ecamsule that are in common commercially available organic (chemical) sunscreens. The most common side effect seen was a rash.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

They concluded that measured blood levels exceeded the acceptable amount considered safe by the FDA. However, the authors of the study note the significance or potential effects of these findings need to be further evaluated.

They did not recommend stopping the regular use of sunscreens.

Dr. Jon Bielfield Colorado Dermatology Institute

It is also important to note, that the aforementioned study looked at “maximal use,” with a premeasured amount of sunscreen applied every two hours. In real-life conditions, most people apply a maximum of 50 percent of the recommended amounts and do not reapply every two hours.

SOUTH LOCATION 1220 Lake Plaza Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80906

NORTH LOCATION 8580 Scarborough Dr #225 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

(719) 531-5400 coloradodermatologyinstitute.com Winter 2019

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What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Early Diagnosis and Treatment Can Improve Long Term Outcomes By: Dr. Douglas Nguyen

I

nflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic autoimmune condition that is characterized by long-lasting inflammation and sores (ulcers) of the intestinal tract. There are two types of IBD:(1) Crohn’s Disease which can affect the entire intestinal tract from the mouth of the anus and (2) Ulcerative Colitis which affects only the large intestines. IBD can be debilitating and sometimes lead to life-threatening complications.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Medications including ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and others may increase development of IBD or worsen the disease in IBD patients

Clinical Symptoms

Complications

The symptoms of IBD vary depending on the severity of inflammation and where the inflammatory occurs. Symptoms vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, blood in the stool, poor appetite, and unintentional weight loss.

Complications of IBD can include a higher risk for developing colon cancer; skin, eye, and joint inflammation; liver conditions like primary sclerosing cholangitis; blood clot; bowel obstructions; malnutrition; severe dehydration; and bowel perforation requiring surgery.

Risk Factors

Diagnosis

There are several risk factors that may contribute to the development of IBD.

Your doctor can assist with making the right diagnosis through a series of blood tests, endoscopies, and abdominal imaging.

Age. Most patients typically are diagnosed with IBD before the age of 30, but sometimes the diagnosis can occur later.

Ethnicity. Typically, Caucasians are at the highest risk for development of IBD, but IBD can be seen across all ethnicities.

Family History. Having a family history of IBD places one at high risk for development of IBD Cigarette smoking. Cigarette smoking has been implicated in high risk for development of Crohn’s disease in particular.

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in your bowel habits or if you have any signs and symptoms of IBD. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life and improve long term outcomes.

Geography. People in industrialized countries are all more likely to development IBD. It is thought that certain environmental factors like a diet high in fat or refined foods may play a role in IBD development.

Treatment The treatment for IBD is diverse and depends on disease activity, but it requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. The treatment of IBD includes nutrition support and counseling, various anti-inflammatory medications, psychosocial support, and possibly surgery.

When to See A Doctor See your doctor if you are experiencing persistent changes

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Douglas Nguyen is a boardcertified gastroenterologist who specialized in high-risk nutrition support and inflammatory bowel disease. He was a former Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of California-Irvine Medical Center and served as a Director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program at the Long Beach Healthcare System. He is regarded as a national thought leader in the field of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and has published over 150 peerreview publications, abstracts, and book chapters. He is currently a member of the comprehensive Gastroenterology team at Peak Gastroenterology Associates in Colorado Springs.

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates‌

YOU

Everything Revolves Around

YOU

Winter 2019

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PIVO Less Pain, Less Hassle with Needless Blood Draws Across Centura Health

B By: Andrea Sinclair

eing hospitalized is nobody’s idea of a good time, especially with all of the poking, prodding, and needles. Traditionally, hospitals’ patients get their blood drawn with a needle early every morning. It can be painful, cause bruising and many people are afraid of needles.

Penrose Hospital and St. Francis Medical Center, both part of Centura Health, are among the first and only hospitals in southern Colorado to use a new IV system called PIVO, which does not use needles to draw blood – patients, nurses and physicians say it is revolutionary. As the region’s largest health provider, Centura Health is committed to innovation on behalf of the half-a-million patients and tens of thousands of providers who tend to their health and wellbeing every year.

Traditional needle-based blood draws create fear and anxiety in nearly every patient and can present heightened risks for injury and infection by health care practitioners. Even worse, the very act of collecting blood using needles is growing increasingly challenging as the number of patients with age, weight, or disease-related complications rises.

“We are so excited and proud to offer PIVO at Penrose Hospital and St. Francis Medical Center,” Penrose-St. Francis Health Services

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Chief Nursing Officer Rose Ann Scibona said. “We are part of the first health system in the region and among the first in the country to challenge the use of needless in blood collection, removing outdated practices that create unnecessary pain, anxiety, and risk.”

“We are part of the first health system in the region and among the first in the country to challenge the use of needless in blood collection, removing outdated practices that create unnecessary pain, anxiety, and risk.”

PIVO is an FDA-cleared, single-use, disposable sterile device from Velano Vascular, which was recently named one of the world’s Ten Most Innovative

Companies in Biotech by Fast Company. PIVO uses a patient’s existing intravenous access in lieu of a needle, which improves patients’ experiences, minimizing the pain and anxiety of needle sticks and re-sticks. Furthermore, PIVO offers health care practitioners added safety, without the presence of a needle there is less risk for providers’ sharps-related injuries.

Nursing teams across Centura Health hospitals embarked on months-long multidisciplinary handson training for all nurses and providers. The PIVO device is currently in use in several of Centura Health’s hospitals, including Penrose Hospital and St. Francis Medical Center in Colorado Springs. When it is fully implemented system-wide, Centura Health expects to eliminate 800,000 needles annually.

To learn more, visit https://www.centura.org/news.

Winter 2019

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BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY!

TICKETS START AT ONLY $

20

MUSIC DECEMBER 18, 2019 A CELTIC FAMILY CHRISTMAS

Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS brings a hot winter line-up to Colorado Springs Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS is bringing Colorado Springs an exciting line-up of world-class theatre, exceptional music, inspiring dance, and meaningful visual art this season. These diverse, high-quality shows all take place in the gorgeous Ent Center for the Arts located just south of North Nevada and I-25.

The winter season includes performances perfect for getting the family together, intimate date night shows, options for arts aficionados, and events for those exploring the arts scene for the first time. With musicians and actors traveling in to perform, as well as local favorites gracing the stage, there is plenty to enjoy all winter long.

DECEMBER

JANUARY

Bring the Whole Family

Broaden your Horizons

Enjoy the wonder of the classic Jules Verne story Around the World in 80 Days as you follow Phileas Fogg on his journey around the world; experience the musical prowess of guitar phenoms and pioneers Bill Frisell & Julian Lage in a rare joint appearance; and fall in love with the MacMaster/Leahy family as they fiddle, dance, and sing you into the Christmas Season in A Celtic Family Christmas.

Some of the brightest stars from the Front Range shine at the Galleries of Contemporary Art for the biennial display of Great Expectations: 2020 – a introduction to diverse artists from around Colorado. Then, China’s Guangdong Modern Dance Company celebrates the poetic spirit of Chinese calligraphy in the award-winning repertoire Beyond Calligraphy.

DECEMBER 5-22 | THEATRE

DECEMBER 18 | MUSIC

OPENS JANUARY 3 | VISUAL ART

JANUARY 29 | DANCE

Around the World in 80 Days

A Celtic Family Christmas with Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy

Great Expectations (Free!)

Beyond Calligraphy with Guangdong Modern Dance Company

DECEMBER 6 | MUSIC

Bill Frisell & Julian Lage

FEBRUARY Fall in Love with Celebrated Artists Small Mouth Sounds provides an enchanting and quietly moving play that takes place at a silent yoga retreat; the Grammy-nominated, selfconducted string orchestra A Far Cry is sure to be a delight; and Kat Edmonson showcases the voice that has put her on the top of Billboard jazz charts for a perfect Valentine’s Day performance.

If that wasn’t enough, Axis Dance Company brings their group of physically-integrated dancers to show off their remarkable artistry and unique choreography; the Galleries of Contemporary Art opens the installation Seat of Learning exploring how we learn from material objects; and the one and only Sam Bush brings his mandolin and fiddle to play some fusion bluegrass and show off his jaw-dropping skills.

JANUARY 30 – FEBRUARY 16 | THEATRE

FEBRUARY 22 | DANCE

Small Mouth Sounds

Axis Dance Company

FEBRUARY 11 | MUSIC

OPENS FEBRUARY 27 | VISUAL ART

A Far Cry

Seat of Learning (Free!)

FEBRUARY 14 | MUSIC

FEBRUARY 28 | MUSIC

Kat Edmonson

Sam Bush

Axis Dance Company • February 22

Around the World in 80 Days • December 5-22

MARCH Journey into the Timeless The heat continues at the Ent Center for the Arts with two major performances happening in March. The Nicholas Payton Quartet journeys from New Orleans to bring their “uncategorizable” music that spans jazz history and is steeped in New Orleans tradition. Then, one actor and one musician tell Homer’s timeless tale of fate and fury in the age-old story reinvented for our modern era, An Iliad.

MARCH 7 | MUSIC

MARCH 12 – 29 | THEATRE

Nicholas Payton Quartet

An Iliad Guandong Modern Dance Company • January 29

There are so many incredible events happening at the Ent Center!

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

TICKETS

CALL: 719-255-3232 ONLINE: UCCSpresents.org IN PERSON: Ent Center for the Arts • 5225 N Nevada Ave GROUPS (10+): Contact the box office for rates

Seat of Learning • Opens February 27

Furry Friends Help Seniors Flourish

By Brookdale Senior Living

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nyone who’s ever had a pet knows the love and companionship they provide. For seniors who have a hard time going out to visit family and friends, the impact is even more profound. Most don’t need a research study to know that pets are good for them, but the evidence is showing that pets can literally add years to your life. It’s why pets have an important role to play at senior living communities and in seniors’ lives.

In addition to boosting hearts and self-esteem, being around animals increases naturally occurring antibodies that protect against invading germs.

Pets with a Purpose Those who raised families and juggled busy careers may struggle to find purpose in their retired years. Having a pet can create a sense of responsibility and mission.

Seniors can’t sleep too late, because they need to feed or walk their furry friend.

Along with structure and routine, pets offer dependable, loyal and judgment-free friendship. This kind of emotional support can encourage seniors to invest in life and make good decisions. Just ask the 25 million Baby Boomers who own pets.

Something to Bark About For seniors with disabilities, dogs can be even more than companion pets. Therapy dogs can help seniors walk, open doors, get dressed, avoid falls, retrieve objects, bark for help and detect seizures. Spending just 15 minutes with an animal can create powerful chemical reactions in the brain. The stress hormone cortisol decreases, and the feel-good hormone serotonin kicks in, causing a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate and stress that can eventually lead to lower cholesterol, heart disease, stroke and depression risks. Furry friends also improve the way seniors process stress, bounce back after a difficult event and recover from a heart attack.

In addition to boosting hearts and self-esteem, being around animals increases naturally occurring antibodies that protect against invading germs. Perhaps that’s why people with pets report fewer doctor visits.

Nonverbal, animal communication can also break through the boundaries of language and disability — especially among patients with dementia. Among older adults, pet therapy has been shown to improve appetite, social interactions and brain stimulation.

Getting Out and About Daily feedings, brushing, dog walks and cleaning up messes, no matter your age, looking after a pet can be quite a workout. Walking with dogs also improves senior speed and distance. Plus, dog walking has been associated with lower body mass index, fewer daily limitations, fewer doctor’s visits and quicker recoveries.

And with trips to the vet, the groomer and all around their senior living community for visits, having a pet encourages seniors to get out and about.

Cuddles and Communication Besides the numerous health and social benefits, pets are mentally stimulating. After all, they are content to be

wherever you are — walking, eating or just cuddling on the couch. Pets live in the moment, and it gives seniors the opportunity to focus on something other than loss and aging.

With more settled, slower-paced lives, seniors have lots of time to devote to their pets, meaning more smiles, hugs and calming endorphins like oxytocin and dopamine.

This unwavering companionship can be welcome relief for seniors who may be living alone for the first time in years or those who have lost their spouse or have children living far away.

Picking the Best Pet Since many seniors have mobility issues, cats, small birds and small dogs make great, low-maintenance pets.

Seniors should avoid high-energy puppies and kittens, and animals who may have decades-long lifespans.

An adult pet is likely best, but not one that may require lots of medical care. Pets for the Elderly partners with shelters across the country to provide seniors with pets at a reduced cost.

Seniors Know Best Your beloved senior should pick the perfect pet for them: calm, adaptable, laidback and excited to bond.

For seniors who are blind or infirm, a service pet may be ideal.

If your mom or dad gets a pet, it’s important that they have a succession plan in place in their will. It’s also vital that they can afford the costs associated with a pet, which can run anywhere from $500 and $1,000 a year.

For many seniors though, the benefits of having a pet more than outweigh the costs.

The Place for Pets

Brookdale is home to many pet-friendly communities.

And even if your senior can’t manage a pet day-to-day, licensed therapy pets even stop by for healing guest appearances in many communities.

When looking for a community for your senior and their pet companion, find out if the community has size, weight and breed restrictions, if they offer pet services or if they have a standard pet policy.

We invite you to drop by a Brookdale community near you to see how your furry friend will fit right in.

To read the full version of this piece, visit brookdale.com/en/ brookdale-life/blogs/2018/09/furry-friends-help-seniorsflourish.html.

Winter 2019

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An Interior That Will Look Anything, but Used!

Finding Treasures that Fashion the Soul and Character of a Great Interior

By: Rich Schell

W

46

e live in a time when we repeatedly hear, “Live green, live off the grid, repurpose, and, of course, recycle” which brings me to this observation: It’s hard to consider and imagine that home furnishings have become disposable.

Many Generation Z and Millennials have a fixation on things that do not last. Currently, they seem to desire a cheap way to furnish their abodes.

Reasons include, “I’ll probably move” or, “I’m not sure what I’ll be doing following college graduation.” Or, maybe they just think they can’t afford the quality they grew up with.

WRONG!

America is mind-boggling. People move, pass away, change, and remodel at a staggering rate! And, then what? We send to the curb, dump, consign, donate, and sell on Craig’s List or Facebook Marketplace, (my very favorite, by the way) rather than buying what really is disposable furniture - low cost and poorly constructed, with bad fabric and finishes. Why aren’t we scooping up the amazing deals that are offered at any one of the previously mentioned places? I’d much rather have a quality name brand piece of furniture that I could refinish or reupholster, than living with something I’d be embarrassed to have in my home.

The amount of furniture that is changed out on a regular basis in

I just returned from the International Home Furnishings Show in High

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Point, North Carolina. While there, in a brand name furniture showroom, I saw furniture created from old shipping pallets -nail holes and allbleached a light gray oak! (And, I might add, actually very attractive.)

But why? When you can easily have a lovely used and upcycled piece of furniture instead? Think outside the box. Look at that old brown hutch with a few scratches on it and envision it reimagined, possibly with a new color such as charcoal gray or bright orange.

Each day there is a great deal of furniture listed for free on both Facebook Marketplace and Craig’s List. Auctions are an amazing way to get something fabulous you may need or want, as well. I’m not talking

just sofas and chairs and dining tables. But, it’s the nightstand, the rug, the dresser, or the lamp. It’s the plant stand and the china hutch. It’s taking an old dresser and making it the one-of-a-kind sink base in your powder room.

centuries. In your hunt for all the great finds, you must stick with it, stay the course, and remain focused during your search, and with your purchases. It may not be the “end all” dining table and chairs that you’ve longed for, but, for the right price, you can fulfill your need to seat everyone for the upcoming holidays!

And, you can know, that with the right timing, you’ll eventually be able to upgrade and find THE perfect dining set.

You do need to be smart and really inspect used furniture for “critters.”

We often don’t know where it comes from and believe me, an apartment on Park Avenue is as likely to have “critters” as areas you’d most suspect, if you were, indeed, a “Critter Profiler!” However, I digress ...

Why I ask, do we continue to buy brand new, ugly furniture that’s made to appear distressed, when, for a fraction of the price, we can get actual distressed furniture, that was originally made to last forever?

Or, we can find perfect furniture that doesn’t include a scratch?

I’ve always been thrifty when purchasing gorgeous furniture for my home. In my business, I have the opportunity to readily buy all the brand new I want, however, daily, I am tempted with the treasures that my consignment store, I Saw It First, takes in to consign. There are several consignment stores and used furniture stores in Colorado Springs with many bargains to be found.

But some advice -you can’t just go in once, look around, and leave saying “they didn’t have anything I want.” They may not today, but next week they could possibly have eight pieces you cannot live without!

I am a huge fan of used furniture.

It offers up the soul and character that a great interior requires to make it interesting. Purchasing used furniture allows you to stretch your budget so that you can splurge on that “one great piece!” And, it’s now affordable, because you were smart with other furnishings you’ve purchased. Antiques are also “used,” but have been coveted for

My point is, let’s all join the ranks of millions of people who’ve furnished their homes with goods that have been previously loved by someone else. Nothing actually makes me happier than when I’m able to pull together an interior design with nothing BUT consigned items.

It’s crazy to think that you can completely furnish a living room for five to ten thousand dollars and really have beautiful quality home furnishings. You’ll spend the same if you buy the disposable stuff, the stuff that’s really garbage. I’m going to give you a couple of my favorite places to check out from time to time, and in doing so, you’ll be supporting a local small business that counts on your patronage to keep them viable. Let’s face it, they all compete with the online shopping sources. We need to keep our “main streets” and fun spots for shopping, the hidden gems in our city alive to continue to do business. Like any good hunt, you’ll come back with amazing bragging rights as to what discoveries you made on your safari!

Your stories will include, ”Can you believe I got this for that price?”

And, “Oh, I’m sure it was mismarked!”

Hunting season is open year ‘round in the land of home furnishings. It’s the same thrill as a real big game adventure. You’ll still need to dress it, clean it, and prepare what might actually become your dinner table!

Go, find that trophy, and take it home.

Great Hunting Grounds for a Colorado Springs Adventure:

I Saw It First Consignments Greg Wragge and Rich Schell, Owners 1731 Mt. Washington Avenue

(719)-447-0077 The Consignment Gallery 1505 S. 8th St. 719-635-1746 Consign and Design 975 Garden of the Gods Rd 719-368-6580 Platte Furniture 2331 E. Platte Place 719-633-7309 Redoux Consignment Boutique 119 E. Bijou St. 719-424-7930 Ross Auction 2430 S. Academy Blvd.

719-632-6693 Craig’s List Craigslist.org Facebook Marketplace

facebook.com/marketplace

Winter 2019

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Myofascial Pain By: Dr. Katharine Leppard

pinched spinal nerves, rotator cuff shoulder injuries, degenerative disc disease, to name a few.

This type of muscle pain can occur after an injury such as a fall or a motor vehicle accident; it can also develop out of the blue. Risk factors include injury, inactivity, age, stress, and anxiety can also trigger this type of muscle spasm and pain. Women are more likely than men to develop myofascial pain. Neck and shoulder injuries are very prone to developing myofascial pain; these are often complex injuries with multiple factors including muscle, joint, and disc problems. Myofascial pain is often one component of the pain. Effective treatment depends on accurate diagnosis and separating out the individual problems and addressing each factor.

W

hat on earth is myofascial pain? We all have experienced it at one time or another, that nagging burning pain between the shoulder blades, in the neck, or low back. Those muscle knots and spasms can be very painful. Usually, these conditions are short-lived and resolve without treatment, but imagine if they did not.

Most everyone experiences this type of pain at some time or another. Myofascial pain is muscle pain that can happen in multiple areas of our body, most commonly the neck and shoulder blade area.

It is often associated with trigger points. A trigger point is a knot of muscle spasm that when you touch it refers pain to another area. People can also develop tender knots that do not refer pain. There is no diagnostic test for myofascial pain, it is based on physical examination and is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other medical conditions need to be ruled out. Differential diagnosis is important as there are any number of underlying medical conditions that cause muscles to hurt - arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, 48

COLivingWell.com

The muscle is the tissue that contracts to move bones and make movement in our bodies occur. The fascia is the tough outer covering of the muscle.

Combining those two words gives us the name myofascial. Muscle is not very smart, it’s only job is to contract and tighten, and it will do this to splint and protect an injured part of our body. Sometimes that muscle contraction becomes constant muscle spasm, and now what started as a protective measure has become a painful persistent problem. Myofascial pain is this type of muscle pain that is limited to one part of the body. If people have pain all over the body, they may have fibromyalgia, a chronic condition with widespread pain and associated depression and sleep disturbance. Scientists theorize that fibromyalgia is an oversensitivity to pain perception. There is no cure for fibromyalgia. Treatment includes treating depression and sleep disturbance.

Treatment for myofascial pain typically starts with physical therapy and includes heat, massage, exercise, and stretching to name a few options. If this fails to resolve muscle pain and spasm, trigger point injections are an option. During trigger point injections, a small needle is inserted into the muscle spasm tender point or trigger point, a medication, usually Marcaine or Lidocaine which are local

anesthetics, is injected. This causes the muscle spasm to relax for a few hours. One to eight injections are done in one session. The injections are followed immediately by massage by either a physical therapist or massage therapist, the injections allow the therapist to work the muscle more deeply. These same medications are used for dental work where the medication is administered around the nerve to deaden the nerve temporarily.

During trigger point injections, you are injecting muscle and are not near the nerves, and patients do not typically feel any numbness. The theory of trigger point injections is that if you can break the spasm cycle, even for a short period, then the muscles will relax and reset themselves to a normal level of muscle tone. I do the injections once a week for two weeks, if they are helping, the injections can be continued once a week for up to a total of six weeks. If two series of injections fail to help, then they are discontinued.

Occasionally steroids can be included with the trigger point injection, however, I usually recommend that steroids be avoided and saved for potential joint or epidural injections if needed. If the pain improves with the trigger point injections but later returns, botox injections are also an option; however, most insurance companies do not often cover botox injections for myofascial pain. Medications such as anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers can also help. Home remedies such as heat or ice are also very helpful.

“

Treatment for myofascial pain typically starts with physical therapy and includes heat, massage, exercise, and stretching to name a few options. If this fails to resolve muscle pain and spasm, trigger point injections are an option.

�

Myofascial pain can develop into a frustrating chronic problem, which can lead to depression and inactivity, leading to weakness, which can worsen muscle pain.

There are chronic pain management counselors and support groups for chronic pain available. Effective treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. It is time to see a doctor if you have deep aching pain that persists or worsens, muscle or joint stiffness, trouble sleeping due to the pain, or if you develop muscle knots that refer pain to another area of the body when pressed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR KATHARINE LEPPARD, MD Medical Rehabilitation Specialists 3470 Centennial Blvd., Suite 110 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 575-1800 www.medical-rehab.com

Katharine Leppard, MD Specializes in EMG Nerve Testing 20 Plus Years Practicing in Colorado Springs Voted Top Doctor Several Years Running

Medical

Rehabilitation

Board Certified: Electrodiagnostic Medicine Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Neuromuscular Medicine

Specialists

www.medical-rehab.com

3470 Centennial Blvd, Suite 110, Colorado Springs CO 80907

Call for an appointment

719-575-1800 Winter 2019

49

Primary Care Where You Need It Most Wherever you need it, Centura Health primary care providers are available to support you in mind, body and spirit.

Centura Tri-Lakes Primary Care 17230 Jackson Creek Pkwy.

Monument, CO 80132 719.571.7000 NEW! Centura Primary Care Chapel Hills 2430 Research Pkwy.

Colorado Springs, Colorado 80920 719.776.3700 Centura Pediatrics NorthCare 6071 E. Woodmen Road, Ste. 225 Colorado Springs, CO 80923 719.571.7130 NEW! Centura Primary Care St. Francis 6011 E. Woodmen Road, Ste. 125 Colorado Springs, CO 80923 719.571.8030 Penrose-St. Francis Primary Care 3027 N. Circle Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719.776.4646

Make an appointment today. With Centura Health’s expanded access for primary care, it’s easy to schedule.

Visit centura.org/primarycare

Centura Primary Care Powers 6080 N. Carefree Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80922 719.571.1088 Centura Primary Care - Broadmoor 1263 Lake Plaza Drive, Ste. 230 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719.776.3300

Centura Health does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact Centura Health’s Office of the General Counsel at 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711). Copyright © Centura Health, 2019. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711).