Leading Medicine Fall 2017, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE FA LL 217

BREAST CANCER:

Is Prevention Possible?

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH PREPARING YOUR BODY FOR BABY

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

Take Control of

YOUR HEALTH

L Dr. Vandana Khera

ike a well-built machine, your body needs proper care and maintenance to function well. However, human bodies don’t come with an owner’s manual.

That’s where your primary care physician (PCP) comes in. By building a relationship with your PCP, you can learn how to stay healthy and take an active role in maintaining your health.

Regular checkups are an important part of good health. In addition, some situations call for extra measures, as described below.

GUARD AGAINST FLU

Fall is flu season, and now is the time to protect yourself and your family. “Influenza — commonly known as the flu — can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death, so it’s important to take it seriously,” said Dr. Vandana Khera, an internist with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months old or older, with few exceptions, get a yearly flu vaccination. “People at higher risk of severe illness or complications from the flu should be especially diligent about getting vaccinated early in the fall, before flu becomes widespread,” Khera added. “That includes people with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions, pregnant women, young children and anyone over age 65.”

Other steps you can take to protect yourself and your family include: Wash your hands often Avoid close contact with people who are sick Avoid touching your mouth, nose or eyes Practice good health habits, such as getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, school and work

HAVE DIABETES? FOLLOW A PLAN FOR HEALTHY LIVING

If you have diabetes, it’s important to work with your health care providers to stay on top of your health. “With proactive lifestyle measures, regular health care and medication, you can limit complications from diabetes and live a long and healthy life,” Khera said. “You’ll need to keep your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol under control.”

2 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

The following steps can help you stay healthy: Follow a meal plan developed with your doctor or dietitian Achieve and maintain a healthy weight Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days Take medicine as prescribed Don’t smoke Stay current on vaccinations. Get a flu shot each year Visit an eye-care professional yearly for a complete eye exam See your dentist twice a year for exams and cleanings. Brush and floss every day Keep feet clean and dry. Check for sores, blisters or problems every day. Treat cuts immediately

ARE YOU A SMOKER? QUIT AND BE SCREENED FOR LUNG CANCER

Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women in the United States. The comprehensive Houston Methodist Lung Cancer Screening Program at Sugar Land helps high-risk patients receive a diagnosis and treatment plan at an early stage.

The program, for current and former smokers, includes annual low-dose CT scans, consultations with health care providers, access to tobacco cessation programs and referrals to physician specialists if needed.

“The overall five-year survival rate for lung cancer remains about 14 percent and most patients are still diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease,” Khera warned. “We’re hoping the Lung Cancer Screening Program will help improve outcomes.”

Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer, and tobacco cessation programs that include counseling or medication can help you break the habit. No matter what your age or how long you’ve smoked, quitting may lower your risk of lung cancer and help you live longer.

Schedule Today!

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Vandana Khera or another Houston Methodist Primary Care Group physician, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 281.394.4565.

IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS DIABETES EDUCATION SEMINAR Thursday, Oct. 12, 6 p.m.

Brazos Pavilion Conference Center If you think you might have diabetes or are at risk for developing it, we encourage you to join us. Discussion will include identifying risks, methods of diagnosis and proper management to minimize the risk of complications.

FLU SHOT TOY DRIVE Saturday, Oct. 21, 8 a.m.–noon Main Pavilion Conference Center Bring a new, unwrapped toy or children’s clothing item in exchange for a free flu shot.

Toys and clothing will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area. No appointments necessary.

TOBACCO CESSATION SEMINAR Thursday, Nov. 9, 6 p.m.

Brazos Pavilion Conference Center Learn about the various methods available to help you quit. Current and past smokers will also have an opportunity to speak to a physician about lung cancer screening.

Registration required for seminars. Go to houstonmethodist.org/events for more information and register today!

PRIMARY CARE SPORTS MEDICINE FOR STUDENT ATHLETES AND ACTIVE ADULTS Student-athletes often have concerns that may be more appropriately addressed by a sports medicine specialist than by a pediatrician. Plus, they may feel that they’ve outgrown their childhood doctor. Choosing a primary care sports medicine (PCSM) doctor as their primary care physician is a smart choice.

Dr. Nish Shah PCSM doctors help active people — both student-athletes and adults — enhance athletic performance and prevent or rehabilitate injuries. But they’ve also completed a residency in a primary care specialty.

“As a PCSM doctor, I focus on patients who are physically active to help them improve performance, enhance overall health, prevent injury and maintain their physical activity throughout their lives,” said Dr. Nish Shah, who joined Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land in August.

We Have You Covered

Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine offers you three convenient locations throughout Fort Bend County. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nish Shah or another Primary Care Sports Medicine physician in your area, go to houstonmethodist.org/ orthopedics-sl or call 281.201.0409.

FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU COMING SOON Long Meadow Farms

Sugar Land

Sweetwater

Riverstone

Sienna Plantation

281.394.4565

LONG MEADOW FARMS 7790 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Suite 100 Richmond, TX 77406 PCSM

SWEETWATER 4660 Sweetwater Blvd.

Suite 210 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Primary Care

SUGAR LAND 16605 Southwest Fwy. Suite 400 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Primary Care and PCSM

RIVERSTONE 18717 S. University Blvd.

Suite 105 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Primary Care

16811 Southwest Fwy. Suite 200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 PCSM

SIENNA PLANTATION 8330 Hwy. 6, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77459 Primary Care and PCSM

CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/PUBLICATIONS 3

FAQs

Genetic Counseling and Cancer

I

f you have a close relative with cancer, you may be concerned about your own cancer risk and wonder what can be done to reduce it. You may also have concerns about the possibility of your children inheriting the disease, especially if you’ve had or currently have cancer. Genetic counseling can help address these concerns. Below, we answer Kate Dempsey, some of your most frequently asked questions MS, CGC about genetic counseling.

Q: What is genetic counseling?

A: Genetic counseling involves meeting with a certified genetic counselor to help determine if a person is a good candidate for genetic testing. “I work with patients who may be at higher risk of developing cancers, such as breast, colon and ovarian cancers during their lifetimes,” said Kate Dempsey, a certified genetic counselor for Houston Methodist Cancer Center. “During a consultation, I take a detailed personal and family history, and based on those findings, determine whether genetic testing is appropriate and what tests should be performed.”

Q: What is involved in a genetic test?

A: A genetic test is performed during an office visit, using a blood or saliva sample. If the results are positive, Dempsey works with cancer center oncologists, including Dr. Jorge Darcourt with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners, to analyze the findings and determine the best course of action for the patient.

Q: Why is genetic testing important?

A: Genetic tests can provide valuable information for diagnosing, treating and preventing illness. A positive result may lead your health care provider to have you undergo further tests and watch you more closely for signs or symptoms of

that particular type of cancer. “We know finding cancer early can make a big difference when it comes to the effectiveness of treatment,” Darcourt explained. “For example, women who carry one of the BRCA genes are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Those women may opt for more frequent screening or surgery to have their breasts removed.”

Q. How common are hereditary cancers caused by a gene mutation?

A. Roughly 5 to 10 percent of all cancers are thought to result directly from gene mutation inherited from a parent. Some of the more common types of inherited cancers include breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic, thyroid and kidney.

Q: Do I need a referral to see a genetic counselor? What about insurance coverage?

A: If your doctor thinks you may benefit from genetic counseling, he or she can write you a referral. Seeing a genetic counselor does not necessarily mean you will require testing, rather, it can help you determine if you’re a good candidate.

“If a patient’s personal or family medical history, particularly in combination, suggest a hereditary cancer risk, then testing is recommended and should be covered by most health insurance providers,” Dempsey said.

Q: How accurate are genetic tests?

A: Genetic tests are more than 99 percent accurate in finding gene mutations or changes. But it’s important to remember that a positive result does not guarantee a patient will get cancer. “A positive test result can tell you what might happen, but it cannot tell you what will happen,” Dempsey cautioned.

“Conversely, a negative result doesn’t mean you won’t ever get cancer because we know that genetic cancers make up only a small amount of all cancers, and your overall risk can change with age and lifestyle choices.”

Learn More

Ask your doctor if genetic counseling is right for you. For more information about genetic counseling at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, call our certified genetic counselor Meagan Kaulfus at 281.201.6669. Whether due to genetics, family history or personal history, Meagan is here to work with patients and their families who may be at a higher risk for developing cancer.

4 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

Meagan Kaulfus, MS, CGC

Protect Your Family from

Unintentional Injury E ach year, more than 28 million Americans visit an emergency room because of an unintentional injury, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.* Many accidents that occur while driving, around the home or during recreational activities could be prevented by following some simple safety Dr. Ashvin K. precautions. Protect your family with Dewan these guidelines: On the road: Make sure everyone’s seat belt is buckled.

Properly restrain children in car seats appropriate for their age and weight. Avoid cellphones and other distractions while driving. Don’t drive impaired, and don’t speed.

At home: Help prevent falls by removing clutter on floors, such as pet gear, electrical cords, throw rugs and small furniture.

Position furniture to create spacious walking paths, and secure carpets to the floor. Wipe up spills immediately. Install nonslip adhesive strips on stairs. Provide adequate lighting on stairs and in all rooms.

Out having fun: Wear a helmet, other protective gear and footwear appropriate for your activity. Inspect any equipment to be sure it’s in good condition and that it provides the proper fit.

In sports, learn and follow the rules of the game.

GET IMMEDIATE HELP — WITHOUT THE ER

Try as you may to be careful and keep yourself and your family safe, accidents still happen. When you have an injury, such as a sprain, fracture, dislocation or even a possible concussion, you can see an orthopedic specialist right away. Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land has expanded its walk-in orthopedic injury clinic services for residents of Fort Bend and surrounding areas.

“The walk-in clinic is ideal for patients of all ages who have suffered an injury — maybe playing sports, working out or just doing chores around the house — who need to see an orthopedist right away,” said Dr. Ashvin K. Dewan, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land.

“Patients who suffer an injury often go straight to the ER even when it’s clear they need an orthopedist,” Dewan said.

“Then they have to make a second appointment to see us. This clinic eliminates that first step and gives patients a same-day option for orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries. It will save patients time and money, and ensure they are treated quickly and appropriately.”

ORTHOPEDIC INJURY CLINIC

Specialized Orthopedic Care for Unexpected Injuries

No appointment

required Office visit pricing Major insurance plans accepted

Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

16811 Southwest Fwy., Suite 200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.609.7547 The clinic provides treatment for: Acute orthopedic injuries Minor dislocations Concussions Painful or swollen joints Fractures and Sports injuries broken bones Sprains and strains Injured tendons Torn ligaments Chronic conditions, spine injuries, motor vehicle accidents and workers’ compensation injuries are not treated at the injury clinic.

Please call 281.201.0396 to schedule an appointment with the appropriate physician for those conditions.

* Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics, March 17, 2017.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 5

BREAST CANCER:

IS PREVENTION POSSIBLE?

W

hen it comes to breast cancer, certain risk factors are out of your control, such as your genes and age, as well as starting your first period young.

Yet even more risk factors are within your control, and every day new research is emerging that suggests breast cancer may be more preventable than experts originally thought. “Women can take Dr. Amelia steps to mitigate their risk of developing breast Tower cancer and increase their chances of survival if it occurs,” said Dr. Amelia Tower, a fellowship-trained breast surgeon with Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of breast cancer:

BE (REALLY) PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

Exercise, especially vigorous exercise, could be the single most important weapon in your arsenal.

“Exercise is a huge factor when it comes to reducing

6 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

a woman’s risk of breast cancer,” Tower emphasized. “Some studies estimate a 15–30 percent risk reduction with moderate exercise, and the more a woman exercises, the more her breast cancer risk drops.” Doctors think the exercise-estrogen link may account for the reduced risk. Here’s why: The greater your lifetime exposure to estrogen, the greater your risk for breast cancer. Exercise suppresses estrogen production by promoting lean body mass.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

Being overweight increases your risk of developing a variety of serious diseases, and breast cancer is one of them. Women who have more fat cells produce more estrogen and tend to have higher insulin levels, both of which are linked to an increased breast cancer risk.

“Maintaining a healthy body weight throughout her lifetime, with a body mass index of 18.5–24.9, has many health benefits,” Tower said.

LIMIT ALCOHOL

In addition to exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight, limiting alcohol to three or less alcoholic drinks per week can lower a woman’s risk. Compared with nondrinkers, women who consume two to five alcoholic drinks a day have about 1.5 times the risk of developing breast cancer. Tower recommended that women who don’t want to abstain take a daily multivitamin with folate (folic acid). Studies have shown that an adequate daily folate intake may mitigate the risk of breast cancer associated with alcohol consumption.

CHOOSE TO BREASTFEED

Tower encouraged new mothers to breastfeed their babies if they’re able. “Evidence suggests that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer,” she said. “We know that the longer a woman breastfeeds, the greater the protective effect.” The reasons why aren’t clear, but one possible explanation is that women who breastfeed have fewer menstrual cycles throughout their lives, and thus less exposure to estrogen.

CONSUME OLIVE OIL

Studies have suggested that consuming more monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, may help protect against breast cancer, too. Houston Methodist is conducting a clinical trial, led by Dr. Tejal Patel, examining how a major component of olive oil, hydroxytyrosol, affects breast density in women at high risk of breast cancer. Women with higher breast density have a higher breast cancer risk.

TAKE PREVENTIVE MEDICATIONS

If you’re at higher risk for breast cancer, your doctor may recommend medications such as tamoxifen and raloxifene to lower your risk. However, these medications can produce symptoms of menopause, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to make an informed decision.

The use of birth control pills has been shown in some studies to increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. However, Tower said the risk is slight. “I don’t advise against taking birth control pills, unless a woman is at high risk,” Tower said.

Schedule Your Mammogram

Mammography is the most effective tool available in diagnosing breast cancer at an early stage, long before tumors are large enough to be felt or to cause any symptoms. Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land offers patients receiving mammograms a comfortable experience in a relaxing environment.

If further testing is needed, the center has the latest in diagnostic imaging and biopsy procedures.

The center also provides breast care education, support programs and a breast care nurse navigator to assist patients who require treatment.

To schedule an appointment at the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land, please visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call 281.242.PINK (7465).

GENETIC TESTING AND INTERVENTION

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, talk with your doctor about whether genetic testing is right for you. Mutations in certain genes, such as the BRCA genes, increase the risk of breast cancer. Women with this gene mutation may opt for more frequent screenings or prophylactic surgery (breast removal). Removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes is also an option; in addition to reducing the risk of ovarian cancer, it helps prevent breast cancer by eliminating a source of hormones that can fuel some types of the disease.

Consult an Expert

Dr. Amelia Tower specializes in the treatment of both benign and malignant breast diseases.

She is dedicated to using the most innovative and state-of-the-art surgical techniques to create a fully individualized treatment plan for each patient.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Tower at Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners, call 281.724.4276.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 7

Preparing Your Body I

f you’ve been thinking and dreaming about starting a family, chances are good that your mind and heart are ready to welcome a little one — but is your body? A little preconception planning can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby. “Taking care of chronic health conditions or concerns before you conceive is extremely important,” said Dr. Utsavi Shah Dr. Utsavi Shah, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

“Addressing modifiable risks and making dietary changes can have substantial benefits, not only for the first baby, but for all subsequent babies, too. Putting the effort in up front can make a difference in your children’s health down the road.”

So is your body prepared for a baby? Answer these questions to find out.

Do you smoke?

“The No. 1 change a woman can make before she gets pregnant is to stop smoking,” Shah said. Smoking can cause low birth weight, premature birth and an increased chance of cesarean section. It also puts your baby at greater risk for asthma and ear infections if smoking occurs in the home. In addition, it’s important to steer clear of secondhand smoke (from someone else’s cigarette, pipe or cigar).

Are you taking folic acid?

Folic acid is an essential B vitamin. Inadequate folic acid intake is linked to spina bifida and other birth defects, many of which occur before a woman even knows she’s pregnant.

“Before you start trying to get pregnant, take folic acid to build up a reserve,” Shah advised. She recommended taking 0.8 mg folic acid daily, or 4.0 mg if you have a family history of spina bifida. Taking a prenatal vitamin ensures that you’re getting the nutrients you need and meets most women’s daily requirements for folic acid.

Do you exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight?

Excess weight increases a woman’s chances of experiencing complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and even miscarriage during pregnancy. “Getting closer to a healthy weight before becoming pregnant will increase your

8 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

chances of a healthy pregnancy,” Shah explained. “In addition, engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet before pregnancy makes it more likely you’ll continue to exercise and eat right after you’re pregnant.”

If you have a chronic medical condition, is it under control?

Seizure disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease and asthma are examples of chronic conditions that may impact your pregnancy. “Often the medications for chronic conditions can have an effect on the fetus, so it’s a good idea to work with your doctor to create a plan,” Shah said. A preconception consultation with your obstetrician-gynecologist can help you determine how to best handle chronic conditions during pregnancy.

Are you aware of Zika virus?

Zika is a mosquito-borne infection linked to microcephaly and other birth defects. “Anyone who hasn’t had Zika virus before can be infected,” Shah said. In addition to mosquito bites and sexual transmission, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it’s likely Zika can be spread through blood transfusions. Zika symptoms include fever, rash and joint pain.

ZIKA PREVENTION TIPS Use these tips to minimize your risk of contracting the Zika virus: Avoid areas where the virus is present Spend more time indoors in spaces that are harder for mosquitoes to infiltrate Use EPA-approved insect repellants, such as those containing DEET or picaridin Wear clothing treated with permethrin that covers your arms and legs Be diligent about removing standing water around your home, where mosquitoes can lay eggs I f possible, avoid travel to areas where Zika is prevalent.

Visit https://www.cdc.gov/zika/pregnancy/ index.html for more information about Zika and pregnacy.

FOR BABY Are you exposed to toxins or environmental contaminants at work or home?

Exposure to harmful materials, such as synthetic chemicals, fertilizers and insecticides, can harm your reproductive system and make it more difficult to conceive. “Coming into contact with harmful chemicals during pregnancy can put your baby at risk for birth defects and disease later in life,” Shah said. “Talk to your doctor about how to protect yourself and your baby.”

Is now the right time in your life to get pregnant?

The birth of a child can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be stress-inducing.

Having healthy coping skills and a strong support system at home is vital when it comes to dealing with the highs and lows of parenthood.

“I encourage women to be sure that they’re prepared mentally for a baby and put real thought into how children will fit into their life plans. Keep in mind that difficulty conceiving and the risks of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities increase significantly after age 40,” Shah cautioned.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Utsavi Shah or another obstetrician-gynecologist in your area, call 281.205.4514 today.

Tour Our Childbirth Center

At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, we know deciding where to have a baby is a big decision, and when moms choose us, it’s an honor we take to heart.

From childbirth and breastfeeding education classes to a wide array of pain relief options available 24/7 on the big day, our goal is compassionate care for you and your newborn. To schedule a tour, visit houstonmethodist.org/events or call 281.205.4514. Tours are provided on Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m.

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND 9

PELVIC HEALTH: A Common Issue Not Commonly Discussed P elvic floor disorders may not be the easiest topic to bring up to your doctor, but problems like incontinence or dropped pelvic organs are far more common than most people may think. In fact, according to Dr. Laura Martinez, female urologist at Houston Methodist Urology Associates, at least 1 in 5 women will have Dr. Laura surgery for a pelvic disorder during her lifetime.

Martinez “Pelvic disorders are extremely common, but many women don’t seek help because they’re embarrassed or they don’t believe good treatment options exist,” Martinez said.

“No woman should suffer in silence with a pelvic floor disorder.

There are many effective, nonsurgical treatment options, such as physical therapy as well as minimally invasive surgical procedures that can bring relief.”

TYPES OF PELVIC FLOOR CONDITIONS

The pelvic floor includes muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that together help to support a woman’s pelvic organs, including her uterus, bladder and rectum. When the muscles and tissue of the pelvic floor become weak, either due to age, surgery or childbirth, it can cause problems with bladder and bowel control, also known as incontinence. Weak pelvic floor muscles can also cause vaginal prolapse, a condition in which the uterus, bladder or rectum “drops” or bulges into the vagina.

Moderate to severe bulging may cause a pulling or a heavy feeling in the pelvis, trouble urinating or moving bowels and lower back pain.

“While pelvic disorders aren’t life threatening, they can severely impact your quality of life,” Martinez warned. “Also, it’s important to remember that pelvic problems can happen at any age.”

IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE

Luckily, the three most common pelvic floor disorders — urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence and vaginal prolapse — are also the most treatable. “Many women who have pelvic health issues, especially urinary incontinence, think it’s just another side effect of aging they have to live with,” Martinez explained. “After receiving treatment, many people are delighted to find that their quality of life improves dramatically.”

10 LEADING MEDICINE IN FORT BEND AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

SPECIALIZED PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR PELVIC HEALTH

Pelvic floor physical therapy restores muscle function and skeletal misalignment, which contribute to bladder and bowel control loss, sexual dysfunction and pelvic pain. “A physical therapist with specialized training in pelvic floor health can address the muscle and nerve problems that often cause or worsen pelvic floor disorders,” explained Dr. Laura Martinez.

“At the first appointment, which usually lasts one hour, the physical therapist will review your medical and personal history, and discuss your symptoms.”

A patient will receive a full exam, including an assessment of the spine, hips and abdominal muscle wall, in addition to an internal pelvic floor muscle exam. “A pelvic floor muscle examination is the gold standard of setting a baseline of the pelvic floor muscles,” Martinez said. “When you have pain or discomfort, the physical therapist can identify the muscles causing the issue and assess their strength and coordination.”

Subsequent physical therapy sessions consist of education, exercises and biofeedback, which uses sensors and electrodes to get an objective representation of a patient’s muscle activity. Physical therapy can also help to reduce muscle spasms and pain, and improve joint mobility.

“Depending on the particular condition and how chronic it is, therapy will last four to six weeks,” Martinez said. “Between sessions, you’re encouraged to continue physical therapy at home as it realistically fits into your schedule. Our goal is to provide you with the tools you need to continue to improve at home.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a pelvic health physical therapist, call 281.275.0450.

Women’s Pelvic Floor Issues They’re more common than you think.

17%

of women suffer from urinary incontinence, making it the most common pelvic floor disorder Women with at least one pelvic floor disorder will increase from

28.1

43.8

to

million

million

in 2010

in 2050

18.3 million in 2010

28.4 million in 2050

Women affected by fecal incontinence will increase 59%

10.6 million in 2010 Women with pelvic organ prolapse will increase 46%

Don’t Wait — Get Help

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Laura Martinez at Houston Methodist Urology Associates, call 281.746.6611.

As many as

16.8 million in 2050 3.3 million in 2010 4.9 million in 2050

are expected to suffer from a pelvic floor disorder by the year 2050, likely due to longer lifespans and an increase in adult obesity.

* These statistics reflect research on nonpregnant women in the United States.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Schedule an appointment: 713.790.3333 11 HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND

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LEADING MEDICINE IN GREATER HOUSTON

HOSPITALS SPECIALTY HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE CENTERS IMAGING CENTERS COMPREHENSIVE CARE CENTERS

Just around the corner

HOUSTONMETHODIST.ORG/SUGARLAND

OUTSMARTING CANCER TAKES LEADING MEDICINE.

Houston Methodist has locations throughout the Greater Houston area to best serve you near your home or workplace.

HOSPITALS

SPECIALTY HOSPITAL

1. Houston Methodist Hospital 2. Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital 3. Houston Methodist St. John Hospital 4. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 5. Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Now Open 6. Houston Methodist West Hospital 7. Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital

. Houston Methodist St. Catherine Hospital

IMAGING CENTERS 9. Houston Methodist Breast Care Center 17. Houston Methodist Imaging Center

COMPREHENSIVE CARE CENTERS 1. Houston Methodist Comprehensive Care Center in Conroe 19. Houston Methodist Comprehensive Care Center in Pearland

EMERGENCY CARE CENTERS 713.441.ER24 (3724) 9. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center at Kirby 1. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center at Voss

At Houston Methodist Cancer Center, our teams of nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer, while delivering the most advanced treatments and comprehensive care available. From screenings to diagnosis and treatment, every aspect of our cutting-edge cancer care is available at all seven locations across Greater Houston, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/outsmartcancer or call 713.790.2700 to find a doctor in your area.

11. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center in Cinco Ranch

The Woodlands

12. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center in Cypress 13. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center in Pearland

Willowbrook

14. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center in Sienna Plantation 15. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center in Spring

Baytown West Houston-Katy Texas Medical Center

16. Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center in The Woodlands

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