Maryland June 2025 Edition

Differenc g

tin

a ebr Cel

ini a

0•

199

ton DC

3Ye5 ars

w

st Late Editio

W as h in g

V

irg

e

Vie

ga

ns

Ma kin

GREAT Information From Local Doctors To Help You Live Healthier!

5

202

• Maryland

•

June 2025 | Maryland Edition

Featured

HEALTH

TECHNOLOGY

PAIN Management & Rehab Featured Professionals

Mini Implants Thunderbird Dental

Hearing Aids Janice Trent, AuD

Ankle Arthroscopy Gary Feldman, DPM

OptiLight IPL Looking Glass Optical

All On Four Implants Dental Implant Center of Rockville

Jonathan Johnson, MD, MBA, CWSP Aesthetics & Wound Care

Kovach Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Dr. Anver Khan Pain Management

Winters Chiropractic

ALF Therapy Sleep & TMJ Therapy

ALSO INSIDE...

BEAUTY & SKIN CARE CHILDREN’S HEALTH HAVING A BABY HEALTH DIRECTORY page 64

50 CENTS

Jeffery L. Brown, DDS TMJ & Sleep Apnea

Priya Parthasarathy, DPM Podiatrist

Austin Moon, DC Chiropractor

COMING NEXT MONTH, MEET YOUR:

LOCAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS LOCAL DOCTORS & ARTICLES at YOURHEALTHMAGAZINE.NET

page 2 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 3

Providing the Finest Eyewear & Personalized Service Since 1929

Superior Quality • Outstanding Selection

EMERGENCY REPAIRS Lab on Premises* ZEISS PENTAX SHAMIR INDO VARILUX HOYA

Healthy Teeth & Gums for the Whole Family!

Dr. Craig A. Smith • Family Dentistry OPTICIANS CERTIFIED OPTICIANS

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 703 Giddings Avenue • West Annapolis*

410-263-2571 2002 Medical Parkway, Suite 615 • Annapolis

410-573-2822

Visit us at www.mcnellyoptical.com for online specials

page 4 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Dr. Craig Smith is committed to health through dentistry, ensuring you have optimal oral health which contributes to your overall health and well-being.

Quality service, advanced technology and a passionate commitment to education means patients receive the best that dentistry has to offer.

Whitening Special

ONLY $339 A $500 Value.

Limited time offer.

New Patient Special

ONLY $139 ONLY $139 • Examination • X-Rays

• Cleaning* • Consultation A $265 Value. Limited time offer. *Unless gum disease is present.

301-446-1784

7201 Hanover Parkway, Suite A, Greenbelt, MD www.CraigASmithDDS.com

301-805-6805

At the Minimally Invasive Vascular Center (also known as MIVC) we have long been committed to addressing the vascular devastation that is rampant in our community. Each year cardiovascular disease is the world’s largest killer; killing more Americans than cancer.

If you have painful legs, wounds that won’t heal, varicose veins, leg swelling, history of smoking, or have a family history of vascular problems and/ or are over the age of 50, you may suffer from poor circulation. Poor circulation may be responsible for causing erectile dysfunction in as much as 50 to 70 percent of men who develop the condition.

Now we are happy to add expanded services! Our goal is to extend the healthy lifespan of our patients by using a comprehensive, integrative approach to achieve the most effective results. We believe that Beauty Is a Reflection of Health and Wellness. We want you to be as beautiful on the outside as you are healthy on the inside.

Now offering a range of services including: • Primary Care • Wound Care • Comprehensive Weight-Loss (including injectables) • Aesthetics • Age Spots • Cellulite • BOTOX® Cosmetic • Fillers • Microneedling w/PRP and Exosomes • PRP Hair Restoration • Spider Veins

• Body Contouring • CoolSculpting • Laser • CoolTouch Laser • Laser Hair Removal • Laser Pigment Removal • Laser Skin Resurfacing • Laser Skin Tightening • Skin Treatments • Acne Scars • PRP Injections • Chemical Peels • HydraFacial • Microdermabrasion • Sun Damage

• Vascular Procedures • Arteriograms • Atherectomy • Balloon Angioplasty • Radiofrequency Ablation – Veins • Venogram • Uterine Fibroid Embolization • Coil Embolization • Sexual Enhancement • Hormone Therapy • Gainswave • P-shot/O-shot

Most insurance accepted

Call MIVC

301-497-1590 to make an appointment today

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Dr. Jeffrey Dormu, DO Board Certified

Dr. Ayana Seibles, DO Board Certified Maryland Edition | page 5

In This Edition…

The articles below are provided by local health professionals for the benefit of the public. Please contact them for advice and services.

8 | Understanding and Overcoming Urinary Incontinence | By Kari Bailey, MD

SERVING MARYLAND & VIRGINIA Since 1990

10 | Debunking Dental Hygiene Myths | Submitted by Dr. Camps Pediatric Dental Center 11 | New Solutions For Dentures and Dental Implants | By Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS

Your Health Magazine is on a mission. There are far too many people, insured or not, who do not go to the doctor when they should, and in millions of cases, don’t know who they should go to, or why.

12 | Your One-Stop Solution For a Healthy Smile | Submitted By Total Dental Care 14 | TMJ Technology | By Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS 15 | Understanding Milk Protein Allergy In Children | By Ahmet Aybar, MD 16 | All-On-Four Dental Implants | Submitted By Sivakumar Sreenivasan, DMD, MDS 17 | Forefoot Surgery | By Howard Horowitz, DPM

People are encouraged to buy a new house, car, cell phone or big screen TV, and those companies make themselves very visible and their products easily attainable.

18 | Fibromyalgia: How Do You Treat It? | By Alan Weiss, MD 18 | Chiropractic Treatment and Pain | By Alicia Kovach, DC 20 | Painful Sex: A Real Mid-Life Crisis | Submitted by New Day Vitality Hormone Center 20 | New Tech In the Dental Office | By Judy Yu, DMD, MBA 21 | Bariatric Surgery and Sleep Apnea | By Etwar McBean, MD, FACS

Information about, and from, local healthcare providers is not easy to find, and many times those services are difficult to access.

22 | Advancements In Cryo-Based Skin Rejuvenation Technology | By Elambert Richardson 24 | Text Neck a Modern Malady | By Holly Dunbar, LMT, Herbalist RH (AHG) 25 | Foot and Ankle Pain: When To See a Specialist | By Gary Feldman, DPM, FACFAS 28 | Why Dry Eye Is a Disease Not Just a Nuisance | By Renee Bovelle, MD 28 | Assistive Telecommunications Equipment | By Maryland Relay/Telecommunications 30 | Hearing Aid Technology | By Sherrie Hunt, Hearing Instrument Specialist 30 | Mindfulness For Stress and Anxiety | By Dr. Tiffany Daniel 31 | A Complete Contouring Solution | By Jonathan Johnson, MD

32-41 | Featured Pain Management & Rehab + Technology 42 | Let’s Get Physical: Making Physical Activity a Part Of Your Family Life | By Janet V. Johnson, MD 42 | The Ultimate Healing: Restoring Body, Mind & Spirit | By Sabrina Milanovich 44 | COPD: When Is It Time To Choose Hospice Care? | By Monica Ferebee, RN, BSN, MSED, CHPN 46 | Relieve Joint Pain and Stay Active Without Surgery | By Dr. Anver Khan

Information and encouragement always lowers fear and trepidation about anything, and this is especially true in healthcare. While general information is available on web-sites, specific information from local providers is almost impossible for people to find. This is one of the key reasons chronic and episodic conditions are not cared for. It is our mission to: Make A Difference By Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier By Going To the Doctor When They Should.

46 | What’s Changing In 2025? | Submitted By MedPro - Medical Billing 48 | Summer Joy, Partnership, Passion | By Anne C. Crowley, MAc, LAc 48 | The Impact Of Mental Illness | By Joyce Abramson, RNMS 52 | The Mind/Body Connections To Lessen Pain | By Linda Penkala, Author, LMT 52 | Cannabis and Fibromyalgia | By Sharron Sample, CEO 56 | The Sleep–Pain Cycle | By Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists 56 | Top 10 Things To Know About The Female Egg Freezing Process | By Yemi Adesanya-Famuyiwa, MD 57 | Understanding Menopause: A Key Phase In Women’s Health | By Ashley Pimperl, MSN, CRNP

There is a lot of evidence that the health professionals who participate in Your Health Magazine have helped many people over the years. We at Your Health Magazine salute you!

G. Scott Hunter, Editor-in-Chief

58 | Chinese Acupuncture For Shoulder Pain | By Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc 58 | Hammertoes: Pain Of the Small Toes | By Ademuyiwa Adetunji, DPM 59 | Cerec Dental Technology | Submitted by E. Taylor Meiser, DDS 59 | Are You In Pain? You’re Not Alone | Submitted By Kensington Pharmacy

Empowering and Encour aging Peo If you ple would like to find out how you can To Live Healthier Makes a Diffparticipate erence! in one of our upcoming editions,

Articles and information about health professionals is available at www.YourHealthMagazine.net From : : : YourHEALTH

date: : : : To: : : : :

please contact the office nearest you.

Magazine Design Shop, Heath

er L. Mahoney

AD PROOF

(301) 805-6805 • fax (301)

Fax # : : : For : : : :

805-6808

MARYLAND & WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE One Town Center Due Date : Any changes to this adver tisement must be noted and 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 102 faxed to YourHEALTH at date, otherwise the ad will be (301) 805-6808 on or before printed as shown below. the due Bowie, MD 20716 Please proof your ad. Chec k for correct addresses, phon e #’s and spelling of all name YOUR APPROVAL IS REQUIRED. Office (301) 805-6805 • Fax (301) 805-6808 s.

Please check the appropriate box, sign and fax back to YourHEALTH. ____ Ad okay as is info@yourhealthmagazine.net ____ Ad okay with changes indicat

In the next edition of Your Health Magazine...

Month : :

Meet Your Local Health Professionals Customer/Authorized Signature (REQU

ed ____ Please call to discuss ad design ______________________Date___ ____________

IRED)_________________________

Biographical profiles to help people learn more about their local health professionals.

Your Health Magazine is here to Help People Find the Healthcare They Need!

Information from local doctors lowers the barriers to getting better healthcare and living healthier...

It Makes a Difference!

Full Editions Now Available Online www.YourHealthMagazine.net

VASCULAR SURGERY Jeffery Dormu, DO

• Triple Fellowship Trained in General, Vascular/ Endovascular and Cardiothoracic Surgery • Board Certified in Vascular and General Surgery

Degrees, Training and Certificatio ns: Dr. Dormu is triple Fellowship trained in General, Vascular and Cardiothora cic Surgery. He is Board Certified in both Vascular and General Surgery.

He received his medical degree from the New York College of Osteopathi c Medicine and served his internship at St. John’s Hospital in Rockway, NY and residency at St. Barnabas Regional Trauma Center in Bronx, NY. Practice Information: Dr. Dormu is the Managing Provider of the Minimally Invasive Vascular Centers also known as MIVC. At MIVC we are committed to addressing the vascular devastation that is rampant in our community.

Dr. Dormu has performed over 2,200 Vascular/Endovascular surgeries in the past year including, Carotid Endarterect omies, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repairs, Arteriograms, Bypass of blocked arteries, varicose vein removal and more.

Practice Locations: Minimally Invasive Vascular Centers 8730 Cherry Lane, Suite 10, Laurel, MD 20707 8667 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910 1496 Reisterstown Road, Suite 220, Baltimore, MD 2120 Phone: 301-497-1590 • Toll Free: 855-803-MIVC (6482) www.MinimallyInvasiveVascularCe nters.com

If you are a health professional who would like to be included in this special issue, contact us today:

VIRGINIA OFFICE Office (301) 805-6805 info@yourhealthmagazine.net

© Your Health Magazine, 2025. The magazine and all of its contents are protected by copyright. For permission to reproduce any materials in this magazine, contact publish@yourhealthmagazine.net.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Gregory Scott Hunter

MANAGING EDITOR Heather L. Mahoney

SALES & MARKETING CONSULTANT Mili Parra

PRODUCTION & DESIGN ADMIN ASSISTANT Alison Doner – MD

301-805-6805 • info@yourhealthmagazine.net page 6 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 7

Understanding and Overcoming Urinary Incontinence

By Kari Bailey, MD Anne Arundel Urology Urinary incontinence, a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide, poses significant challenges to those living with it. Defined as the involuntary leakage of urine, this condition can disrupt daily life, impacting social interactions, self-esteem, and overall well-being. As a urologist, it’s imperative to shed light on this condition, its causes, and the array of treatments

available to manage it effectively.

Types and Triggers Urinary incontinence comes in various forms, each with its own triggers. Stress incontinence, often linked to weakened pelvic muscles, contrasts with urge incontinence’s sudden, strong bladder contractions.

Mixed incontinence combines aspects of both, highlighting the complexity in diagnosis and management.

Getting To the Root: Diagnostic Journey Made Simple

To tackle urinary incontinence, understanding its root cause is key.

Urologists employ straightforward diagnostic methods, including medical history discussions and basic physical exams, sometimes coupled with specialized tests like bladder function studies. This process helps uncover the underlying issues, guiding tailored treatment plans.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Shifts You don’t need drastic measures to make a difference. Simple lifestyle

Innovative Treatments We offer the most modern and noninvasive alternatives for the treatment of all of your urological conditions.

We have collaborative relationships with nearby academic centers including Georgetown Hospital, George Washington Hospital Center, Johns Hopkins and The University of Maryland Medical Center, enabling us to offer the most cutting edge treatments and therapies. We also work with exceptional local radiology and oncology groups to provide you with the best coordinated care.

The focus of all we do is our patients. We take our commitment to you seriously and are always working to provide the best, most compassionate care closer to home.

IR Center 600 Ridgely Avenue Suite #120 Annapolis, MD 21401

East Campus Surgery Center 600 Ridgely Avenue Suite #130 Annapolis, MD 21401

Glen Burnie 305 Hospital Drive Suite #303 Glen Burnie, MD 21061

West Campus Surgery Center 7855 Walker Drive Suite #102 Greenbelt, MD 20770

Annapolis 600 Ridgely Avenue Suites #222-223 Annapolis, MD 21401

Odenton 1106 Annapolis Road Suite #250 Odenton, MD 21113

Bowie 4201 Northview Drive Suite #201 Bowie, MD 20716

Greenbelt 7855 Walker Drive Suite #100 Greenbelt, MD 20770

410-266-8049 – AAUrology.com page 8 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Kari Bailey, MD changes, like managing fluid intake and incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine, can significantly improve symptoms, especially in stress incontinence cases. Additionally, behavioral therapies like bladder training and scheduled voiding can help regain control and reduce urgency.

Medication Matters: Targeted Solutions For Enhanced Comfort For individuals with more severe or persistent symptoms, pharmacotherapy may be recommended. Medications targeting overactive bladder muscles, such as anticholinergics or beta-3 adrenergic agonists, can help reduce urgency and frequency of urination. In some cases, hormone therapy or topical estrogen may be prescribed to strengthen pelvic tissues and alleviate symptoms, especially in postmenopausal women.

Minimally Invasive Solutions For those seeking more advanced solutions, minimally invasive procedures offer hope. Techniques like sling placement, urethral bulking, Botox, or neuromodulation can provide lasting relief, with minimal disruption to daily life. These options can make a significant difference in your quality of life.

Collaborative Care: Navigating the Journey Together It’s important to recognize that treatment for urinary incontinence is not one-size-fits-all; rather, it requires a personalized approach tailored to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. As a urologist, my goal is to empower patients with knowledge, support, and effective interventions to regain control over their bladder function and enhance their quality of life. By fostering open communication and collaboration, we can navigate the complexities of urinary incontinence together, striving for optimal outcomes and improved well-being for all affected individuals.

301-805-6805

Caring. Compassionate. Committed.

Mental Health Matters – You’re Not Alone Now Accepting Walk Ins For New Patients • Most Insurances Accepted At Outreach, we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges, we offer a safe, compassionate space where you can begin your journey to healing.

Our compassionate addiction services provide personalized care, tailored treatment, and a supportive community to help you or your family regain control of their lives. Whether you’re seeking outpatient counseling, detox support, or long-term recovery solutions, we’re here to walk this journey with you—because your We understand that life can feel overwhelming, health, happiness, and future matter. but there is hope. Our team of caring professionals is here to support you every step of the Reach out today and take the first step toward way with personalized mental health counsel- lasting wellness. It’s time to prioritize your welling and medication management. being.

Take the first step toward better mental health today.

Call now to schedule an appointment 410-800-4466 Visit our website for a list of locations near you:

OutreachRecovery.com Your Mental Health Matters, and We’re Here To Help. www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey Maryland Edition | page 9

Debunking Dental Hygiene Myths Separating Fact From Fiction

Submitted by Dr. Camps Pediatric Dental Center

In the realm of pediatric dental care, myths and misconceptions abound. Parents often find themselves navigating a sea of conflicting information when it comes to their child’s oral health. From the importance of baby teeth to the efficacy of fluoride, separating fact from fiction is crucial for maintaining optimal dental hygiene. This article will debunk some of the most common dental hygiene myths to help you

make informed decisions about your child’s dental care.

Myth 1: Baby Teeth Are Disposable One prevalent myth is that baby teeth are not essential since they eventually fall out anyway. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Baby teeth play a crucial role in a child’s development, aiding in speech development, proper chewing, and maintaining space for permanent teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to dental issues, such

as misalignment and decay, which may require costly interventions later.

Myth 2: Fluoride Is Harmful There’s a misconception that fluoride is harmful, particularly for children. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Fluoridated water and toothpaste are proven to be safe and effective in preventing cavities.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends fluoride tooth-

At Dr. Camps Pediatric Dental Center we are committed to educating both parents and patients in dental hygiene. We strive to treat each patient and parent as we would our own family members.

Our practice offers your child the most up-to-date pediatric dentistry services for your child’s dental needs including: • Dental Care for Children of All Ages (Infants to Adolescents) • Accepts most insurance plans • Preventive Care: Gentle cleanings, oral hygiene guidance, sealants, and nutritional counseling • Emergency Care: Urgent treatment for broken teeth, trauma, and dental pain • Specialized training in caring for patients with special healthcare needs • Hospital sedation available for eligible patients

• Treatment of tooth decay with appropriate restorations: composite (white) fillings, crowns, nerve treatments, and extractions

• Educational daycare and classroom visits available upon request • Diverse team happy to share their languages: Spanish, Italian, Farsi, Arabic, and Portuguese (Translation service available upon request)

• “Camps Cares” – community engagement and philanthropy initiative

12520 Prosperity Drive, Suite #300 Silver Spring, MD 20904

Call today: 301-989-8994 office@funsmiles.com | www.FunSmiles.com

page 10 | Your HEALTH Magazine

paste for children as soon as their first tooth erupts.

Myth 3: Brushing Harder Means Cleaner Teeth Many people believe that applying excessive force while brushing will result in cleaner teeth. However, aggressive brushing can damage tooth enamel and irritate gums, leading to sensitivity and recession. Dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to remove plaque effectively without causing harm to the teeth and gums.

Myth 4: Sugar Is the Main Cause Of Cavities While sugar certainly contributes to tooth decay, it’s not the sole culprit. Cavities develop when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Starchy foods like chips and crackers can also fuel bacterial growth. Additionally, poor oral hygiene habits, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, can exacerbate the risk of cavities. A balanced diet, along with proper dental care, is key to preventing tooth decay.

Myth 5: Children Don’t Need To See a Dentist Until They Have All Their Permanent Teeth Waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted before seeing a dentist is a common misconception. Children should have their first dental visit by the age of one or within six months of their first tooth eruption. Early dental checkups allow dentists to monitor oral development, provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, and detect any potential issues early on.

Dispelling dental hygiene myths is essential for promoting optimal oral health in children. By understanding the facts and debunking misconceptions, parents can make informed decisions about their child’s dental care. Remember, regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene habits, and a balanced diet are the cornerstones of a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Schedule a visit with your pediatric dentist today to ensure your child’s smile stays bright and healthy for years to come.

301-805-6805

New Solutions For Dentures and Dental Implants

By Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS

Dentures are a good replacement option for patients who are missing all of their teeth, but only if they fit well.

Why Are My Dentures Loose?

Impact on the bone by continuous hitting and pressure of a denture against the jaw every time you eat can make the bone underneath the denture go away. This causes the denture to become loose and slip. It may create the need for using paste or other means to hold the denture in place. Slipping dentures can make eating certain foods very difficult for patients. This happens most often with lower dentures.

How Can Dentures Fit Well For a Long Time?

Dental implants can be placed under the denture. Implants have offered the possibility of fully replacing teeth for over 30 years and are very safe and effective. When you make the denture stable by “snapping” it onto dental implants, you can provide a better level of comfort for the denture-wearer, and create new strength for eating the foods patients love.

Dentures are a good replacement option for patients who are missing all of their teeth, but only if they fit well.

Dental implants are very much like your natural teeth. They are quite easy to get used to, and they can reduce the amount of stress to the bone and jaw by helping provide an anchor for support. The implant acts as a natural root to help prevent additional bone deterioration and helps to deliver long lasting function.

Does Every Denture-Wearer Qualify?

This depends on the amount of bone loss that has already taken place. If the denture has been in place for many years and the ridge of bone under it is very thin, you may need to have a special scan done to decide if you are a candidate for the procedure. This scan will also look for any other defects that may be present to make sure you are healthy.

Since implants are meant to last for a very long time, your health and wellness are important to the outcome. www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

How Long Does a Patient Have To Go Without Teeth?

Never. The denture is fitted to the implants, the same day the implants are placed. Typically, you are back to normal or better eating by day two or three.

Do Dental Implants Hurt?

Most patients have little to no dis-

comfort. The surgery is done in one day, typically in just a few hours. There are sedation options available for this procedure for those patients who want to relax through the procedure.

Is Treatment Expensive?

The cost of treatment varies depending on the number of implants, if a new denture needs to be made, if the patient desires sedation, or if

there needs to be more bone added to have a good result. Costs are variable and should be weighed against factors such as the education of the doctor, the results from other patient experiences, and the quality of the product you are receiving.

Discover the difference dental implants can make for you. Schedule an appointment today!

Meet Your Smile’s New Best Friend!

Dr. Karl A. Smith, Periodontist A Dentist with Super Powers

– Dental Implants To Restore Your Beautiful Smile – Caring & Kind Dentist & Team – State-of-the-Art Equipment – Laser Periodontic Therapy – Affordable Gum Treatment – Insurance Accepted & Filed – Ultra-Sterile Environment – No Referral Needed – Comfortable Sedation Dentistry

$209

New Patient Special

Includes Initial Exam, Full Mouth Digital Film, Consultation with Dr. Smith (Reg. $428)

Our patients mean the world to us (and they love to refer to us as friends and family). My team works together to ensure your visit is enjoyable, and that your treatment is gentle and pain-free.

We are deeply committed to help you prevent and treat periodontal (gum) disease, and to enhance your smile to improve your overall health.

New Patient appointments available daily!

601 Post Office Road, Suite #1-B, Waldorf, MD 301-638-4867 2500 N. Van Dorn Street, Suite #128, Alexandria, VA 703-894-4867

www.Dr.KarlSmith.com Maryland Edition | page 11

Your One-Stop Solution For a Healthy Smile

Submitted By Total Dental Care

Maintaining optimal dental health is crucial for overall well-being, and finding a dental office that offers comprehensive care under one roof is a game-changer. Total Dental Care is a well-established dental practice that takes pride in providing detailed and comprehensive services in various specialties, ensuring patients receive topnotch care for their unique dental needs.

General Dental Services: Total Dental Care excels in offering a wide array of general dental services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, and preventive care. Our experienced team focuses on early detection and intervention to prevent dental issues from escalating.

Specialized Services: Whether you require orthodontic adjustments, periodontal treatments, Invisalign, dental implants, prosthodontics, oral

surgery, extractions, root canals and endodontic treatments, or restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Total Dental Care has you covered. Our specialists are experts in their respective fields, ensuring you receive tailored treatments for your specific dental concerns.

Cutting-Edge Technology: Total Dental Care stays at the forefront of dental technology, offering services such as digital intra-oral cameras, cone-beam CT scanners, and teethin-a-day. Our commitment to utilizing advanced techniques ensures effective and efficient treatments while minimizing complications.

Sedation Options: Understanding the anxiety some patients may feel, Total Dental Care offers laughing gas, oral sedation and IV general anesthesia options. Our goal is to create a comfortable and stress-free environment, catering to the individual Please see “Healthy Smile,” page 62

Your Family’s One Stop Dental Shop S. Sreenivasan DMD, MDS Oral/Maxillofacial

General and Cosmetic Dentistry • Orthodontics • Implants Periodontics • Oral Surgery • Endodontics • Prosthodontics Children’s Dentistry • Sedation Dentistry

Mary B. Alexander DDS, DMS Periodontist

WELCOME TO TOTAL DENTAL CARE! We provide all dental services under one roof. We look forward to having you as a patient and thank you for selecting us for your dental care needs. We focus on the needs of each patient to provide an EXCEPTIONAL patient experience in a relaxing, modern and caring environment.

Asha Narendra DDS General/Cosmetic

Bhavana Mistry DDS General Dentist

For convenient one stop dentistry for you and your family, call today:

240-813-9111

Karthik Cherukuri DDS General Dentist

Anil Manda DMD Endodontist

page 12 | Your HEALTH Magazine

20680 Seneca Meadows Parkway, Suite #218, Germantown, MD 20876

www.TotalDentalCareMD.com

301-805-6805

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 13

TMJ Technology

By Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS Sleep & TMJ Therapy

In the world of TMD (temporomandibular disorder), there are many ways to treat the problem, but it must always begin with a good diagnosis.

First and foremost are an MRI and CBCT x-ray of the joints and surrounding areas. The MRI is a magnetic imaging device that looks directly at the discs in the jaw joints. This high-

tech machine looks inside the joints and produces soft tissue images to help with your diagnosis. The CBCT is the x-ray machine that uses low-dose radiation to look at the bones inside the skull, the cervical spine, the teeth, and the condyles. These tools are what we use to come up with a diagnosis and then a plan to help you get better.

In many cases, the ALF wire is a really great device to help in so many ways. It will help position the tongue

to the roof of the mouth, which helps with better nasal breathing. It also promotes better swallowing. With good tongue positioning and better swallowing, you will breathe better as time goes by. This is one reason the ALF is very helpful.

Another appliance called the Gelb is an orthotic device that makes sure the condyle (hard bone) does not bang into the soft tissue disc. This appliance is helpful for so many people as it

We Are NOT Your Typical Dental Office We Can Help With: • Jaw Pain, • Migraines Clicking or • Craniofacial Popping Pain • Head, Neck and • Sleep Apnea Shoulder Pain • Orthodontics

Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS helps avoid the need for TMJ surgery in many cases. The idea is that you wear the Gelb for a year, maybe more, to give the discs a chance to get back into the proper position. In almost all cases, pain is reduced, and the person also sleeps better.

One of the most interesting bits of technology we have is the Fotona laser. This is a nonsurgical laser that penetrates deep into the tissue to reduce pain and inflammation. It stimulates the regeneration of damaged tissue. This device has been amazingly successful with our patients who need some degree of relief right away. In addition, the laser has a specific protocol that helps to reduce fat in the tongue, along with lifting the palate area to improve symptoms from sleep apnea. This, too, is a nonsurgical procedure and fairly easy to do in almost all cases.

Dr. Jeffrey Brown has limited his practice to focus only on TMJ Disorders, Craniofacial Pain Management and Sleep Apnea. By fixing slipped discs in the jaw joints, Dr. Brown can significantly reduce the pain patients experience in the head/neck region and other symptoms associated with jaw joint problems. Sleep & TMJ Therapy may be able to improve the quality of life for you or a loved one – we encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns.

• Certified Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain • Over 30 Years Experience Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS

• Graduate of Georgetown School of Dentistry (1986)

“Dr. Brown and his staff are absolutely wonderful. I was diagnosed with Dystonia. I could not turn my head and had a ton of pain. My doctors offered no help and no advice besides Meds and Botox. Since having the Of course, it should always be appliance I have NO pain and I can turn my head. I would highly recom- In the world of TMD (temporomand mentioned that you can use things like mend them to anyone. I feel Dr. Brown and his staff really care about their theand problem, but to it mitigate must alway patients and helping them to get better. They do not just numb the symp- treat Botox other injectables toms but fix the problem. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel like foremost are an MRI and CBCT x-ray pain, however, our office prefers to the old me again!”

- D. Thomas

MRIfixisthea actual magnetic imaging device t problem, not just mask

it over.

Other techniques machine like arthro- looks “My daughter has been treated by Dr. Stack and Dr. Brown for the last 2 joints.

This high-tech 1/2 years, and we are very fortunate to have found them. Prior to that she centesis are available.

This involves images to help with your diagnosis. was being treated by a neurologist at a Children’s hospital. She was on flushing radiation the joints to to remove medications for tics and associated muscle pain, OCD/repetitive thoughts, low-dose looktoxins. at the bon sleeplessness and more (all possibly associated with Tourettes). Drs. Stack It does not fix anything, but it likely and Brown installed spacers to alleviate pressure on nerve bundles in the teeth, buysand a littlethe morecondyles. time for thoseThese who too jaw, and subsequently braces to complete the process. Her symptoms diagnosis and then a plan to help you are not ready to treat the problems. have diminished significantly. She is off medication, her tics have all but disappeared, she can concentrate better in school, and she is once again Technology has greatly improved cheerful and relaxed.”

- Susan

Schedule Your Appointment Today: 703-821-1103

In many the ALF is a real over thecases, past decades.

Therewire are more more modalities of treatment will and help position the tongue ofto the r fered.

The ALF and Gelb are the timenasal breathing. It also promotes honored, traditional approaches.

This positioning and better swallowing, yo appliance therapy has been around is one reason the ALF is very helpful.

since before the 70s. The fix takes time to implement, whereas the injectables Another appliance theUl-Gelb i are a quick source ofcalled pain relief. condyle (hard bone) does notthebang timately, the patient will decide 2841 Hartland Road, Suite #301, Falls Church, VA 22043 • www.sleepandtmjtherapy.com technology for their health! helpful for so many people as it help page 14 | Your HEALTH Magazine

cases. The idea is that you wear the 301-805-6805 discs a chance to get back into the p reduced, and the person also sleeps b

Understanding Milk Protein Allergy In Children

By Ahmet Aybar, MD Annapolis Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition

Cow’s Milk is often one of the first foods introduced to infants and toddlers, making it especially concerning when a child reacts negatively to it. Milk protein allergy, also known as cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA), is one of the most common food allergies in young children, affecting approximately 5% of infants worldwide.

What Is Milk Protein Allergy?

Milk protein allergy occurs when a child’s immune system mistakenly identifies proteins found in cow’s milk—primarily casein and whey—as harmful invaders. This triggers an immune response, leading to symptoms that can affect the skin, digestive tract, and respiratory system. CMPA is different from lactose intolerance, which is caused by an inability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk, rather than an immune reaction.

Symptoms To Watch For Symptoms of milk protein allergy can appear within minutes or up to several hours after consuming milk or dairy products. They may include: • Skin rashes, hives, or eczema • Vomiting or diarrhea • Blood or mucus in the stool • Abdominal pain or colic-like symptoms • Runny nose, wheezing, or coughing • Poor weight gain or growth (in more chronic cases) In rare cases, a child may experience anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis and Testing If milk protein allergy is suspected, a pediatrician or allergist will review your child’s symptoms and medical history. Diagnosis may involve: • Elimination diets: The primary treatment is avoidance of all cow’s milk protein along with soy protein and soy oils as frequently soy protein allergy goes hand-in-hand with dairy allergy. www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

• skin prick test and food-specific IgE antibody tests are not useful because in many cases, the culprit is non-IgE based allergens that are not detected by such tests. Therefore, a detailed history obtained from the parents and physical examination including a stool test for presence of microscopic blood are adequate to establish a clinical diagnosis • Oral food challenges, done under medical supervision, to confirm the allergy It’s important not to eliminate

milk from your child’s diet without guidance, as dairy is a major source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein.

Treatment and Management The primary treatment for milk protein allergy is avoidance of all cow’s milk and dairy products. For formula-fed infants, hypoallergenic formulas such as extensively hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formulas are typically recommended.

For breast feeding mothers this may mean removing all dairy and soy protein from their own diet. For-

tunately, about 80% of the affected infants outgrow this problem by their birthday and some may continue to have symptoms till age 3-5 years.

Supporting Your Child’s Health Work closely with your pediatrician or a registered dietitian to ensure your child gets the nutrients they need without dairy. Many milk alternatives, such as oat or soy milk, can be fortified with calcium and vitamin D—but not all are suitable for young children, so professional guidance is key.

Relief for Young Tummies, Peace for Parents – Expert Pediatric GI Care At Annapolis Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, we specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive challenges in children from infancy to early adulthood. Our board-certified team, led by Dr. Ahmet Aybar, delivers compassionate care tailored to your child’s unique needs.

Why Choose Us? Comprehensive Services: Treatment for conditions such as Crohn’s Disease, GERD, Ulcerative Colitis, Celiac Disease, and more.

Trusted Expertise: Procedures performed at Anne Arundel Medical Center by Dr. Aybar, a renowned pediatric gastroenterologist.

Family-Centered Care: We take the time to listen, explain, and provide guidance for every step of your journey.

Don’t wait to help your child feel better.

Call us at

443-837-7600

or visit us at 130 Lubrano Drive, Suite #212, Annapolis, MD 21401 to schedule your appointment today.

www.AnnapolisKidsGI.com Maryland Edition | page 15

All-On-Four Dental Implants

CHARLES C. REEL, MD, LLC Medstar Georgetown University Trained Neurologist

Taylor Touch, NP Adult and Adolescent Neurology Comprehensive Neurological Evaluation and Treatment of: • Dizziness/Vertigo/Disequilibrium • Walking Difficulty/Falls • Arm/Leg Weakness/Pain/Numbness • Muscle Spasms (Botox) • Sleep Disorders • Headaches/Migraine • Neck/Back Pain • Memory Disorders We Specialize in the Diagnosis and Care of: • Peripheral Neuropathy/Muscle Disease • Spinal Stenosis/Arthritis • Parkinson’s Disease • Autonomic Disorders/Fainting • Dementia/Alzheimer’s

• Balance Disorders • Stroke • Multiple Sclerosis • Epilepsy/Seizures

Offering state-of-the-art testing and treatment, including EMG/NCS, EP, EEG and Autonomic Studies

Maryland Gait & Balance Disorder Center Participating MedStar Community Physician Most Insurances Accepted • Appts. generally available in 1-2 weeks

301-290-0395

We are located in Charlotte Hall just off Golden Beach Rd., at RT. 5 near the St. Mary’s Hospital Annex, centrally located between Waldorf, Prince Frederick and Lexington Park.

Submitted By Sivakumar Sreenivasan, DMD, MDS Dental Implant Center of Rockville

Can just four implants replace all of the teeth on the top or the bottom of your mouth? Thanks to advances in dental implant technology, that answer is a resounding yes.

Tooth loss is extremely common among adults, especially as we age.

Rather than living with the discomfort and hassles of dentures, many people are opting for what is called “all-onfour” dental implant restoration.

An implant is a small titanium

screw that fits inside your jawbone and replaces the root-part of a missing tooth. Minor surgery is required to insert the implants. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached to give you a highly realistic-looking and functional prosthetic tooth.

You do not need a dental implant for each and every one of your missing teeth. All you need is four precisely placed implants on the top of your mouth, and four on the bottom, to restore your full smile. That’s the beauty of the all-on-four. And because the implant is made of titanium, it has the unique ability to fuse to living bone and function as part of it. So eventually, the dental implant becomes part of the jawbone and serves as a strong, longlasting foundation for your new teeth.

Besides ensuring that your implants are permanently fixed in place, this bone fusion has another important benefit: it prevents future bone loss in the jaw. This helps to maintain a more youthful facial structure – and better Please see “All-On-Four,” page 62

All-On-4: Same Day Smiles

Missing Teeth or Tired of Wearing Dentures?

Thanks to advances in dental implant technology, just four implants can replace all of the teeth on the top or the bottom of your mouth.

Courtesy 3D Planning For Implants

When patients bring a 3D scan with them to or have one taken in the office.

Appointment needs to be scheduled before June 15, 2025

CALL TODAY TO GET YOUR OLD SMILE BACK!

301.294.8700

Dental Implant Center of Rockville 77 South Washington Street, Suite #205 Rockville, MD 20850 • www.DrSreeni.com

page 16 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

Forefoot Surgery

By Howard Horowitz, DPM Bowie Foot & Ankle Many foot problems do not respond to conservative management.

Your podiatric physician can determine when surgical intervention may be helpful. Often, when pain or deformity persists, surgery may be appropriate to alleviate discomfort or to restore the function of your foot.

Bunions A bunion, which is a common deformity of the foot, is an enlargement of the bone and tissue around the joint of the big toe.

When symptomatic, the area may become red, swollen and inflamed, making shoe gear and walking un-

comfortable and difficult. If conservative care fails to reduce these symptoms, surgical intervention may be warranted.

Hammertoes A hammertoe deformity is a contracture of the toe(s), frequently caused by an imbalance in the tendon or joints of the toes.

Due to the buckling effect of the toe(s), hammertoes may become painful secondary to footwear irritation and pressure. Your podiatric physician may suggest correction of this deformity through a surgical procedure to realign the toe(s).

Neuroma An irritation of a nerve may produce a neuroma, which is a benign enlargement of a nerve segment, commonly found between the third and fourth toes. Several factors may contribute to the formation of a neuroma.

Your podiatric physician will likely x-ray the affected area to determine the size and severity of the neuroma and suggest a treatment plan.

If conservative treatment does not relieve the symptoms, your podiatric

Medicine & Surgery of the Foot

Gentle Care For You and Your Feet • Orthotics

• Hammer Toes

• Shockwave Therapy

• Ingrown Nails

for heel pain

• Heel Pain

• Sports Medicine

• Fractures/Sprains

• On-site X-Rays &

• Diabetic Foot Care • Plantar Warts

• Joint Pain/Instability soft tissue imaging

Serving Area for over 30 Years Board Certified:

Podiatry Surgery – ABMSP &

Podiatric Orthopedics – ABPOM Evening Appointments Most Insurance Accepted

Location: 14999 Health Center Drive, Suite #112, Bowie, MD • 301-464-5900 Appointments/Info at www.BowieFootandAnkle.com

Charles L. Feitel Company Direct: (301) 365-6940 6701 Democracy Blvd., Suite 300 Bethesda , MD 20817

Fax:

(301) 365-6941

Email: cfeitel@medicalanddentalspace.com

CHARLES L. FEITEL

“The Medical Expert In The Washington Metropolitan Area Commercial Real Estate Market” Let Charles Feitel help you with your next space requirement.

His professionalism and medical expertise are unsurpassed.

Call now!! www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Your One-Stop-Shop For ALL Of Your Holistic Medical Needs!

Call Dr. Angel today!

240-360-3990 DoctorAngel.JaneApp.com

Dr. Angel Wood

Board Certified Natural Health Practitioner Licensed Acupuncturist, Certified Colon-hydro Therapist (Colonic), Ionic foot bath, Spiritual Wellness

Please see “Forefoot Surgery,” page 62

Howard Horowitz, DPM • Bunions

G OT G U T ISSUES?

Dr. Angel Specializes in: – Whole Body Detoxification

– Colonic/Wholistic Colon Hydrotherapy – Women’s Health

(May include: Vaginal Steaming, Acupuncture, Herbs, FB, etc.)

– Natural Pain Relief – Foot Bath – Weight Management IC COLON T LIS SPECIA

LADIES – PRIORTIZE SELF CARE! ENJOY A 1-3 HOUR SPA DAY FOR VAGINAL REJUVENATION/ HEALING WITH DR. ANGEL!

This will help calm the womb and allow for internal renewal and external relaxation.

CALM THE WOMB. – Total mind body renewal and relaxation.

Packages Available Platinum, Gold or Silver

7525 Greenway Center Drive, Suite #213, Greenbelt, MD 20770 Maryland Edition | page 17

Conventional and Integrative care to help YOU achieve your Optimal Health.

At Annapolis Integrative Medicine, Dr. Alan Weiss combines the best of conventional treatments, natural approaches, and alternative strategies to effectively improve and maintain your well being.

Fibromyalgia

How Do You Treat It?

Offered Services: • Comprehensive Medical Evaluations including Chronic, Complex, and Mysterious Medical Conditions • Hormone Replacement Therapy featuring BioTE Hormone Pellet Therapy for men and women • Intravenous Therapies: Myers Cocktails, Glutathione, Vitamin C. • Peptide Therapy.

• Votiva and Morpheus Rejuvenation therapy • HCG Weight Loss Therapy • Weight Loss and Detoxification Therapies

Annapolis INTEGRATIVE Medicine Schedule Your Appointment Today!

410-266-3613

Now Offering Bio-Te Hormone Pellet Therapy!

Weight Loss (Including HCG)

annapolisintegrativemedicine.com Internal Medicine ~ Personalized Nutritional Strategies

Evaluation & Treatment of Complex, Long-Term Health Issues Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement for Men and Women Board Research Certified,and Second Opinions Personalized Medical American Board of Internal Now OfferingMedicine American Board of Anti Aging Medicine The Intelligent Alternative to Liposuction Call Now For Special Introductory Rates

Alan Weiss, MD

1819 Bay Ridge Ave, Suite 180 • Annapolis, MD 21403

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY - 410-266-3613

1819 Bay Ridge Ave • Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21403

By Alan Weiss, MD Annapolis Integrative Medicine Fibromyalgia syndrome affects at least six million Americans, causing more disability than rheumatoid arthritis. The prevalence is rapidly increasing, likely having increased by 200-400% in the last 10 years alone.

Fibromyalgia remains a condition without a fully understood cause, in which patients report chronic widespread pain and a variety of other common complaints including fatigue, sleep disorders, cognitive

Offering a Full-Range of Chiropractic and Wellness Services:

Alicia Kovach, DC

Aric Adlam, DC

• Physical Therapy Modalities Technique Specialties: • Activator Method • Thompson Technique • Myofascial Release • Massage Therapy • Ultrasound • Custom Orthotics • Infrared Light Pad

Kristina Anderson, DC

Now Offering Dry Needling Accepts Most Insurance Policies Now Accepting New Patients – Call now to schedule your appointment:

410-697-3566

959 Annapolis Road, Gambrills, MD 21054 www.kovachchiropractic.com page 18 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Please see “Fibromyalgia,” page 62

Chiropractic Treatment and Pain

Why Suffer If You Don’t Have To? • Spinal Decompression - Non-surgical treatment for chronic low back pain sufferers • Aqua Massage - Provides a relaxing and therapeutic massage, while fully clothed • Cold Laser Therapy - A non-intrusive alternative to acupuncture and surgery, can help many pain conditions

deficits, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, Raynaud’s syndrome, and a wide array of other symptom patterns that do not make sense unless one is familiar with the syndrome.

There are many reasons for widespread pain and fatigue, many of which commonly result in a mistaken diagnosis of fibromyalgia. It is important to see a physician experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia. Medical problems such as undiagnosed hypothyroidism, nerve problems, medicine side effects, connective tissue disorders and autoimmune diseases can be mistakenly called fibromyalgia leaving people going down an ineffective tunnel of treatment and testing.

Unfortunately, even when an accurate diagnosis of fibromyalgia is made, a patient is often told the only thing you can do is to take one of a few prescription drugs. But if these medications are not effective or produce intolerable side effects, the patients

By Alicia Kovach, DC Kovach Chiropractic Chiropractic therapy stands as one of the most prevalent modalities of manual medicine, employing hands-on techniques to manipulate the body. Rooted in Greek origins denoting “done by hand,” chiropractic practice traces back to ancient healing traditions in China, India, and Egypt.

Since its formal inception in 1895, chiropractors have emphasized spinal manipulation to alleviate various pains, notably chronic low back pain, neck discomfort, and tension headaches, alongside addressing knee, shoulder, and elbow pain. Central to their approach is spinal adjustment,

aimed at remedying restricted spinal mobility, often supplemented by adjunctive therapies like ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, and tailored exercises, all geared toward enhancing spinal function and mobility.

Acknowledging that some patients may be averse to manual manipulation, chiropractors have devised alternatives such as the chiropractic activator. This tool emerged from the necessity for a gentler, more efficient intervention, minimizing discomfort and stress during treatment. By employing the activator, chiropractors can mitigate patient apprehension, facilitating a less painful and more effective realignment of bodily structures. Determining the most suitable approach for each patient remains the chiropractor’s prerogative.

Chiropractic intervention proves beneficial in addressing trauma-induced spinal misalignments resulting from accidents, which can aggravate nerves, bones, ligaments, and discs.

Even seemingly minor accidents hold the potential to induce nerve-damaging misalignments, underscoring the importance of prompt intervention.

301-805-6805

Nicole Haskins, CRNP, RN (Family Nurse Practitioner)

ADVENTIST MEDICAL GROUP PRIMARY CARE SERVICES FOR YOU Choose Adventist Medical Group Primary Care in Fort Washington, Maryland, to provide a full range of primary care services for adults.

Learn to better manage your health and prevent illnesses with personalized care from our experienced, primary care providers. Our specialists in family medicine and internal medicine work as a team to deliver expert care when you need: • Same-day Sick Visits • Women’s and Men’s Health and Wellness Exams • Health Physicals, Health Maintenance and Preventive Care • Geriatric (Senior) Wellness Exams • Vaccinations and Immunizations, including Flu Shots

• Health Management for: • Asthma and Allergies • High Blood Pressure • High Cholesterol • Diabetes • Heart Disease

You also benefit from coordinated care that helps you effectively handle all aspects of your health—from preventive medicine and preoperative appointments to management of chronic health conditions.

To schedule an appointment, please call 240-724-6018

10709 Indian Head Highway, Suite D1 Fort Washington, Maryland 20744

AdventistMedicalGroup.org www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 19

Painful Sex

Keep it moving.

Movement means longevity.

Sex hormones impact flexibility, muscle mass and metabolism.

Talk to a bioidentical hormone specialist today to learn about the many benefits of hormone replacement.

Call 410-793-5212 410-793-512

1300 Ritchie Hwy., Suite B, Arnold, MD 21012

8133 Elliott Rd., Suite 205, Easton, MD 21607

HORMONE CENTER

newdayvitality.com

• Children’s Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Crowns and Bridges • Dental Implants • Dentures • Extractions • General Dentistry • Invisalign • Periodontal Treatment • Tooth-Colored Fillings

Dental Care for Patients of All Ages We Look Forward to Meeting You

Dentistry by Dr. Judy Yu Schedule an Exam Today!

410-360-0440 | dentalfxmd.com

8667 Fort Smallwood Rd., Pasadena, MD 21122 page 20 | Your HEALTH Magazine

A Real Mid-Life Crisis Submitted by New Day Vitality Hormone Center It’s one of life’s cruel ironies: the kids are finally out of the house so you have more privacy and free time but having sex gets . . . complicated.

“Both men and women deal with hormone changes in their 40s that can cause changes in sexual arousal, desire and general physical comfort during sexual activity,” says Shannon Chavez, a licensed psychologist and certified sex therapist in Los Angeles.

But for women, pain with intercourse – called dyspareunia (dis-puhROO-nee-uh) – is among their top three menopause problems.

According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), a science-driven, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of all women during midlife and beyond, “between 17-45% of postmenopausal women

say they find sex painful.”

The culprit is lower levels of estrogen. Throughout a woman’s reproductive years, estrogen contributes to effective vaginal lubrication and thickens the vaginal wall while increasing blood vessels to the skin.

But levels of estrogen wildly fluctuate in women’s 40s and, without hormone therapy, remain low after menopause, causing vaginal atrophy – vaginal dryness and loss of elasticity. Not only can this cause pain during sex, but, over time, intercourse under these harsh conditions also can cause vaginal inflammation and even mild injury, adding to a woman’s distress and discomfort.

Luckily, there are treatments available for vaginal atrophy and dyspareunia, ranging from overthe-counter water-soluble lubricants to topical and systemic hormone therapy. But lubrication alone may Please see “Painful Sex,” page 66

New Tech In the Dental Office

By Judy Yu, DMD, MBA Dental FX The iTero Element 5D is a wandshaped digital scanner that features an intraoral camera. The wand can be moved around the inside of a patient’s mouth to essentially create five-dimensional impressions of your teeth. This makes your dentist’s job easier when treating you, but, what exactly does this mean for you?

This state-of-the-art diagnostic tool is used for a number of purposes, including finding cavities, to enhance Invisalign procedures, and to replace traditional dental impressions.

Finding Cavities Between Teeth Cavities between teeth are often invisible to the naked eye, and dentists

typically rely on bitewing X-rays to find them.

The iTero features an infrared camera that allows your dentist to identify cavities between teeth without an X-ray. So if your dentist has the iTero they can use traditional X-rays less frequently. As a result, patients can have a more comfortable experience, and exposure to radiation from X-ray technology is minimized.

Enhancing the Invisalign Procedure The iTero can be used to simulate Invisalign treatment, allowing a patient to see what his or her smile would look like after treatment is completed.

Replacing Traditional Dental Impressions Reducing how often traditional dental impressions need to be taken is one of the most notable benefits of this new dental technology.

For traditional dental impressions, dentists place impression material into a tray, and the patient must bite down into it for about five minutes. This can be challenging for patients.

Please see “New Tech,” page 62

301-805-6805

Bariatric Surgery and Sleep Apnea

Dentures & Denture Repairs

breathing during sleep, only to wake up suddenly gasping for air. Many individuals are tired during the daytime with a tendency to fall asleep easily.

In the long term, there is a risk for cardiovascular and respiratory complications and even sudden death.

Sleep apnea can be screened for during a medical evaluation with urHEALTH Magazine Design Shop, Heather L. Mahoney questions and a clinical exam. The diagnosis is confirmed by doing a sleep study, either at home or in a sleep lab.

By Etwar McBean, MD, FACS (301) 805-6805 • fax (301) 805-6808 The Bariatric & Hernia Institute, PC Treatments are aimed at increasing the space through which the air travels.

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder Traditional treatments include characterized by airway obstruction CPAP and BIPAP machines that aland disturbed airflow. The airway low the airway to stay open for oxyobstruction is usually caused by ex- gen to flow to the lungs. Oral appliadvertisement must be noted and and faxedances to YourHEALTH at with (301)the 805-6808 on or before the due cessive tissue around the airway are also used same e the ad will printed as shown leads to be oxygen starvation duringbelow. the goal but are more appropriate for sleep. It is frequently seen in obese mild sleep apnea. Surgical treatments ThunderBird Dental Office affectionately known as individuals and is for highest in individoof your ad. Check correct addresses, phone and spelling have been used #’s to remove tissue of all names. the ThunderBird, has been providing dentures and uals who are morbidly obese (greater box, from the and airway aiming to increase REQUIRED. Please check the appropriate sign fax back to YourHEALTH. than 100 pounds overweight). Pa- the airway patency and allow better denture repairs for over 40 years. tients have snoring ____ Adand okayfrequent with changes indicated ____ Please call to discuss ad design oxygen flow. arousal due to the disturbed breathOur dental lab is on our premises which allows us Please see “Sleep Apnea,” page 62 ing.(REQUIRED)_______________________________________________Date_______________ Some patients will even stop Signature

Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier Makes a Difference!

AD PROOF

to deliver same day repairs and relines. We also perform extractions for immediate dentures.

Our service is prompt and personalized and our price is right, so come on in!

Considering Weight Loss Surgery?

Take the first step to improve your overall health.

Learn more by attending one of our FREE educational

information seminars OR schedule your first appointment today!

240.206.8506 www.tbhinstitute.com

Greenbelt and Silver Spring, Maryland

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

301.843.6171

thunderbirddentaloffice.com 6 Post Office Road Suite #104, Waldorf, MD 20602 Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am-2:30 pm Maryland Edition | page 21

Rejuvenate Your Mind and Body with Our Natural Health and Wellness Spa

CRYO FOR SKIN Anti-Aging Skin Tightening Now Available!

Advancements In Cryo-Based Skin Rejuvenation Technology

We have a Salt Cave and space available for Family and Small Group Spa Events, and Massage Therapy

NEW Hyperbaric Chamber Looking for a natural way to boost your health and wellbeing?

Come experience our natural health and wellness spa services, including: • Oxygen Therapy • Red Light Therapy • Halo Therapy • Infrared Sauna • Ionic Bath • Salt Cave Visit us today to discover the benefits of natural health and wellness services for yourself. Book an appointment now and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating experience at our spa.

Welcome to our new massage therapist, Kelsey! Schedule a massage with her today.

Elon Roshell Day Spa & Health, LLC

230 West Dares Beach Road, Suite #103, Prince Frederick, MD 20678

443-968-8807 text 443-624-4252 ERMassageTherapy.com

page 22 | Your HEALTH Magazine

By Elambert Richardson Elon Roshell Day Spa & Health In recent years, cryo-based skin therapy has gained significant attention as a non-invasive solution for skin tightening and anti-aging. The newest generation of this technology—now in its fourth version—builds on the principles of cold therapy to improve skin

tone, texture, and elasticity without surgery or downtime.

Cryo skin treatments use controlled cooling to target specific layers of the skin. When applied to the surface, the device rapidly lowers skin temperature, stimulating a natural biological response. This includes vasoconstriction followed by vasodilation, which increases oxygen-rich blood flow to the area and boosts collagen production. Collagen is a key protein responsible for firm, youthful-looking skin.

This latest generation device delivers more consistent temperature control, enhanced safety features, and faster treatment times compared to earlier models. Patients often describe the procedure as refreshing and soothing, Please see “Cryo-Based Skin,” page 62

301-805-6805

The Only Non-invasive Laser Device With FDA Approved, IRB, and Clinically Proven Results For: Fat Reduction, Aesthetics, Cellulite Elimination, Weight Reduction, and Inch Loss.

• Natural, safe, laser light energy is pulsed and absorbed by the subcutaneous tissue.

• Supercharges the body’s metabolism through ATP synthesis to burn fat as energy.

• Waste products are expelled from the body via sweat, urine and respiratory exhaustion.

• The body continues to burn fat for up to 4 hours after treatment.

• Collagen and elastin production is increased within the skin layers to rejuvenate and repair skin cells addressing cellulite, skin laxity and stretch-marks.

Charlotte Hall – 29770 Three Notch Road – Ph: 301-884-3423 La Plata – 101 Centennial Street, Suite A – Ph: 301-934-9762 Monday-Thursday 10AM-7PM, Friday 9:30AM-5PM

www.DocWinters.com

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 23

Join Our Email List!

Text Neck a Modern Malady

GO TO: yourhealthmagazine.net /signup The latest articles, videos and advice from your Maryland, Washington, DC & Virginia Doctors.

page 24 | Your HEALTH Magazine

By Holly Dunbar LMT, Herbalist RH (AHG) New Moon Bodywork and Botanicals

“Text Neck” is a self-coined phrase to describe stiffness, and neck and upper back pain resulting from hunching over a small electronic device. We’ve all felt this common pain in the neck, which could also be caused by excess time at a computer, or focused work at a desk (think of a scientist bent over a microscope for hours at a time).

Many occupations of the day require prolonged time at a desk, and this is further exacerbated by a long

commute. This unnatural posture is problematic for several reasons.

Our bodies by design were meant to be upright and moving. Excessive time sitting compresses the spine, and stagnates the cerebrospinal and synovial fluid that lubricates the discs and supporting tendons and ligaments. The fascia that surrounds and supports these structures becomes less pliable. Stiffness will likely result as this tissue becomes more binding, and it also makes one more prone to injuries.

Hours spent focusing on a single object straight ahead will inevitably lead to a forward head posture. The average head weighs 8-12 pounds and puts a tremendous strain on muscles intended for fine-tuned movements, such as the sub-occipitals at the base of the skull.

Over a period of time, muscles carrying this load will lay down more fibrous cells to create a stronger “strap”. These muscles will tend to feel gristly or ropey when palpated, Please see “Text Neck,” page 63

301-805-6805

Foot and Ankle Pain

When To See a Specialist— and What You Can Do Now

By Gary Feldman, DPM, FACFAS The Center For Advanced Orthopaedics Foot and ankle pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages.

Whether caused by injury, overuse, or chronic conditions, this type of pain can significantly limit mobility and impact daily life. Recognizing when pain requires medical attention is essential to prevent long-term complications.

Common Causes Of Foot and Ankle Pain Pain in the foot or ankle can stem from a variety of sources. Acute injuries such as sprains, fractures, and tendon tears are frequent causes, especially among athletes or active individuals. Overuse conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and stress fractures can develop gradually due to repetitive motion or improper footwear. Chronic conditions

such as arthritis, nerve compression (such as tarsal tunnel syndrome), and flat feet can also contribute to ongoing discomfort.

When To Seek Medical Attention While some foot and ankle pain may improve with rest and self-care, certain symptoms warrant evaluation by a specialist. Persistent pain lasting more than a few days, swelling, bruising, or difficulty bearing weight on the affected limb should not be ignored. In some cases, pain that worsens over time or occurs during rest may signal a more serious underlying condition. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the foot can indicate nerve involvement and should be promptly assessed.

At-Home Management Strategies For minor injuries or overuse symptoms, initial treatment typically includes rest, ice application, compression, and elevation—commonly referred to as the RICE method. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and swelling. Supportive footwear and orthotic inserts may alleviate strain on the foot and promote proper alignment. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also assist in relieving tension and improving function.

Medical and Surgical Options When conservative measures Please see “Specialist,” page 63

Dr. Gary Feldman DPM, FACFAS

FOOT AND ANKLE SURGEON

301-515-0900

Confidence with Every Step

Services Dr. Gary Feldman is a surgeon and podiatrist specialized in the treatment of various orthopaedic conditions of the foot and ankle.

Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery

Arthroscopic Foot & Ankle Surgery

Total Ankle Joint Replacement

Foot and Ankle Trauma

Sports Medicine of the Foot & Ankle

Common Foot Problems

Boosting Recovery with Biologics

Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapeutic Massage • Skin Care • Herbal Medicine • Aromatherapy Holly Dunbar, LMT, Herbalist RH (AHG), Certified Aromatherapist We welcome John Colein, LMT to our growing practice, offering therapeutic massage, reflexology, prenatal massage, hot stone, and manual lymphatic drainage services

Now Accepting New Clients!

301-392-5186

Wellness shop open Wednesdays 2-6 and Fridays 10-2 Appointments Available Monday-Saturday

www.NewMoonBody.com

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

PRP is a relatively new method of treatment for several orthopedic conditions such as muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries; arthritis; and fractures.

Platelets consist of special proteins, known as growth factors, which help with our body’s healing process. PRP injections consist of a high concentration of platelets and plasma which when injected into injured tissues can help alleviate pain, promote healing, and delay the need for surgery.

Maryland Orthopedic Specialists – Bethesda

Maryland Orthopedic Specialists – Germantown

6710A Rockledge Drive, Suite #130 19847 Century Blvd., Suite #205 Bethesda, MD 20817 Germantown, MD 20874 Phone: (301) 515-0900 • www.DrGaryFeldman.com Maryland Edition | page 25

DR. LARRY BRYANT: MARYLAND’S PREMIER ORAL SURGEON TRANSFORMING SMILES AND LIVES Precision. Compassion. Innovation.

The Oral Surgery Legacy of Dr. Larry Bryant

W

hen patients face some of the most traumatic and life-altering moments of their lives, Dr. Larry Bryant is there—combining surgical precision with heartfelt compassion.

As Chief of Facial Trauma at the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center in Largo, a Level II trauma center, Dr. Bryant leads a skilled team available 24/7 for facial reconstruction and trauma care.

At his private practice, Bryant Oral & Facial Surgery, he specializes in dentoalveolar surgery—the surgical treatment of the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding tissues. Known for his expertise and dedication, Dr. Bryant has become one of Maryland’s most respected oral and maxillofacial surgeons, offering patients cutting-edge care and innovative treatment options in a welcoming, patient-centered environment.

during a summer program at Harvard University. Although he had already planned to attend dental school, it was during a clinical rotation at Massachusetts General Hospital that he discovered his passion for surgery. Interacting with specialists who treated the jaw and face, he realized his true calling.

After graduating with honors from Howard University College of Dentistry, he completed his oral and max-

illofacial surgery training at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center in New York, followed by a fellowship in orthognathic surgery and dental implantology at Montefiore Medical Center.

For over two decades, Dr. Bryant has served the Bowie-Mitchellville community in Prince George’s County, Maryland, providing outstanding care to patients across Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.

A Calling Discovered Early Dr. Bryant’s journey began in 1975 Bryant OMS Associates 12200 Annapolis Road, Suite #236 Glenn Dale, MD – 301-249-0553 www.JawFacialSurgeons.com Dr. Bryant is your local certified TeethXpress provider. Contact Dr. Bryant today to find out if the TeethXpress procedure is right for you.

page 26 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

Advanced Imaging for Same-Day Implants Bryant Oral & Facial Surgery uses state-of-the-art Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to make same-day dental implants possible.

CBCT provides high-resolution, 3D imaging of the mouth and jaw, allowing for precise planning and customized implant placement. It’s this technology that enables the team to deliver such reliable, efficient, and comfortable results.

DR. LARRY BRYANT, DDS BRYANT ORAL & FACIAL SURGERY GLENN DALE, MD 301-249-0553

TeethXpress: Restoring Smiles in a Day “Technology has transformed dental care,” says Dr. Bryant—and his practice is proof. One of the most exciting advancements is TeethXpress, a same-day solution that replaces a full arch of teeth using four to six strategically placed implants and a fixed hybrid prosthesis.

Unlike removable dentures that can shift, cause discomfort, or require adhesives, TeethXpress offers a permanent, natural-looking solution that preserves jawbone health and allows patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence—all in a single visit. For many, it’s a life-changing alternative to the insecurity and inconvenience of traditional dentures.

Patients walk in with missing or failing teeth and leave the same day with a secure, radiant smile. There’s no waiting period, no temporary dentures, and no dietary restrictions. Just immediate results and restored selfesteem. www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

BEFORE

Using this data, the lab crafts custom prosthetics tailored to each patient— resulting in a fit that feels natural and looks flawless.

Are You a Candidate for TeethXpress?

According to Dr. Bryant, ideal candidates for TeethXpress are patients who are just beginning to lose their teeth and have sufficient bone density.

Those with medical conditions such as controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, or even certain autoimmune diseases may still qualify for the procedure. The key is a comprehensive, individualized evaluation.

AFTER

Each treatment plan is uniquely designed to suit a patient’s dental history, health profile, and long-term goals. Even those who have been told they’re not candidates for traditional implants may find success with TeethXpress.

hope and healing in areas with limited access to modern healthcare.

A Global Mission of Care Each year, Dr. Bryant travels to **Malawi—one of the world’s poorest countries—**where he volunteers as part of the Smiling Surgeons team.

With just one oral surgeon serving over 22 million people, the need is immense. Dr. Bryant and his colleagues provide life-altering care for patients with advanced oral diseases, facial injuries, and tumors, offering

More Than a Surgeon Outside the operating room, Dr. Bryant is a devoted grandfather, an avid swimmer, and an active member of his church’s leadership team. His commitment to service—**at home, in his practice, and around the world— **sets a high standard in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Whether performing complex trauma care, pioneering implant technology, or giving back to underserved communities, Dr. Larry Bryant is more than a surgeon—he’s a force for healing, innovation, and compassion.

Maryland Edition | page 27

Assistive Why Dry Eye Is a Disease Not Just a Telecommunications Equipment Nuisance

By Renee Bovelle, MD Envision Eye and Laser Center More than 40 million Americans suffer from a disease called dry eye syndrome. Computer use, CPAP machines, certain medications, diabetes, auto-immune disease, and just age can put you at risk for dry eye disease.

People with dry eyes frequently experience burning and stinging of their eyes, their eyes often feel sticky, and their eyes are often red. Some people with dry eyes also have periods

page 28 | Your HEALTH Magazine

when their eyes get so watery that tears spill over their eyelids and run down their cheeks.

Your eyes normally make small amounts of tears all day. Tears play several important roles in keeping your eyes healthy and vision clear.

Tears lubricate the eyes surface, wash away debris, provide a smooth surface to help keep your vision clear, and also contain natural antibiotics that keep your eyes safe from germs that might cause infections.

Tears coat the eye in a smooth film made up of three separate layers.

The layer of tears closest to the front surface of the eye is called the mucin layer. Its job is to smooth out the uneven spots on the eye surface. Next, a layer of aqueous tears covers the mucin layer. The aqueous layer is watery, and makes up the majority of the tear film. Its job is to lubricate the eye and keep it moist. The final layer of Please see “Dry Eye,” page 66

Provided By the State

By Maryland Relay/ Telecommunications Access of MD

Communicating by telephone is an important part of living an independent life. That’s why the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program offers a wide variety of solutions and tools, provided by the State, to support day-to-day communications. The MAT program is administered by Telecommunications Access of Maryland, a State agency located within the Maryland Department of Disabilities.

The MAT program is available to any Maryland resident who: • has difficulty using a standard telephone; • is 3 years of age or older;

• is certified as being Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, blind, low vision or having cognitive, mobility or speech-related difficulties; • is on a fixed income, or is a recipient of at least one state or federal financial benefit; • equipped with home phone service and high speed/WiFi If you meet the above criteria, you may apply for the MAT program. Applications are available online at mdrelay. com. Once your application is approved, you will be notified and given instructions to schedule a free evaluation at a MAT evaluation center near you.

During this evaluation, you will have the opportunity to practice dialing, answering and talking on several different pieces of equipment until the evaluator finds the solution that works best for you. Your evaluator will order your equipment and it will be shipped to your home within 4-6 weeks. Each device comes with personalized instructions for setup and use, and you may always contact your local MAT evaluation center for additional training and set-up.

A sampling of the solutions available through the MAT program includes: • Amplified phones • Captioned Telephones • Ring signalers • Phones with large and/or high contrast buttons • Phones that talk when dialed • Picture phones • Phones that amplify speech • Braille TTYs for people who are Deaf-Blind • Hearing Carry-Over (HCO) phones • Voice Carry-Over (VCO) phones • Hands-free phones If you do not qualify for the MAT program but would like to purchase equipment, you may also request a free evaluation at any MAT evaluation center.

To learn more, or to apply for the MAT program, please visit mdrelay. org or call 1-800-552-7724 (Voice/ TTY) or 443-453-5970 (VP).

301-805-6805

Our Experienced Teams Will Help You

Feel Better This Spring!

Now offering Semaglutide (Active ingredient in Ozempic) Once-A-Week Weight Loss Shot!

Immune + Energy Boosting – Habla Español

Effective Vitamin IV Therapy NEW – Triple Immune Boost Shot Vitamin Shots • Medical Weight Loss Chiropractic • Physical Therapy

MILLERSVILLE 410-729-2200 LANHAM 301-577-6556 Effective Integrative Healthcare provides a wide variety of services that make them a one-stop shop for healthcare:

Acupuncture • Massage Bio-Identical Hormone Pellets & more – all under one roof!

Cryotherapy chamber now available in the Millersville location

E I H M D. CO M www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 29

Hearing Aid Technology

Clearer Sound, Smarter Solutions

By Sherrie Hunt, Hearing Instrument Specialist – The Hearing Aide Hearing aid technology has come a long way from the bulky, feedbackprone devices of the past. Today’s hearing aids are compact, discreet, and powered by advanced digital systems that offer impressive sound clarity and user control. For individuals experiencing hearing loss, modern hearing aids not only restore the abil-

ity to hear, but also improve quality of life through enhanced communication, confidence, and connection to the world around them.

How They Work All hearing aids have the same basic parts: a microphone to pick up sound, an amplifier to increase sound volume, and a speaker that sends the sound into the ear canal. However, today’s digital hearing aids go much further. They ana-

Explore a New Hearing Care Experience!

Our goal is to continue earning your trust by providing honest, high quality, individualized care.

A variety of services are available at a fraction of the cost. Whether in-home, in-office, or via tele-audiology, we strive to take the stress out of the hearing aid consultation and selection process at a price you can afford.

10440 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite #300, Columbia, MD 21044

443-319-5455 – AideInHearing.com

lyze incoming sounds in real time and automatically adjust settings based on the user’s environment. Whether you’re in a quiet room, a busy restaurant, or a windy park, smart processing helps separate speech from background noise.

Types Of Hearing Aids Hearing aids come in a variety of styles, including behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), and completely-incanal (CIC) models. New rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the need for disposable batteries, and many devices are now Bluetooth-enabled, allowing wearers to stream calls, music, and TV audio directly to their hearing aids.

Personalized Sound One of the most significant advancements in hearing aid technology is customization. Many devices can now be fine-tuned using smartphone apps, giving users direct control over volume, tone, and noise reduction. Some models even use artificial intelligence to learn user preferences and adjust settings automatically throughout the day.

Remote Care and Teleaudiology Remote programming is another

Mindfulness For Stress and Anxiety

By Dr. Tiffany Daniel Live To Day Wellness

The majority of overweight clients also suffer from chronic pain or have experienced a trauma that keeps them from conducting their daily living activities or reaching their goals independently.

Mindfulness and movement can

be combined together to complement the primary care provider’s prescribed treatment. So many clients are living with chronic pain, trauma, and disease that it has become a common household topic.

Two of the most popular forms of healing today are equestrian (horses) and yoga therapy. Both forms of therapy can provide mindful movement.

WELLNESS Dr. Tiffany Daniel, EdD

137 National Plaza Suite #300 Oxon Hill, MD

602-456-1180 www.ctldomgroup.com

Yoga 200Level and Zumba Instructor Training: Mindful Movement and Breathwork Areas of Interest: Healthy Eating and Regular Exercise Specialties: Nutrition, Meal Planning, Weight Loss, Rehabilitation and Maintenance, and Standards for Excellence Licensed Consultant Practice Philosophy: Your Health is Your Wealth Hosts a monthly women veterans peer support group with Peer Outreach Solutions, Inc., (Posi) for Sista’s of the Posi.

Give An Hour, Ambassador supporting veterans and their families.

Veteran Yoga Project, State Director for Yoga - MRT Breathe for Change, Yoga Instructor Yoga - SEL(F) Mental Health First Aid Certified Hobbies: Reading, Researching Preventive Measures for Autoimmune Diseases and other Health Conditions plus Advocate for Veterans and Mental Health Awarenes

page 30 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

Mindful movement can be described as any movement activity that is practiced mindfully, by giving attention, presence, and intention to whatever the form of movement may be. It might be equine, running, yoga, swimming, walking or several other activities.

We have put it all together to embark on the incentives of both.

Mindful resilience (MR, or therapeutic yoga) is a program that was developed by Dr. Dan Libby of the Veteran Yoga Project (VYP) which includes practices that have been chosen based on the feedback of hundreds of veterans and active service members who suffer from the aftereffects of combat or other trauma. MR programs report improvements in mood, impulse behavior, irritability, concentration, and sleep.

There are five parts to Mindful Re-

Sherrie Hunt leap forward. Audiologists can now adjust hearing aids remotely, saving patients time and reducing the need for in-office visits. This is especially helpful for seniors or individuals with mobility challenges.

Early Use Matters Many people wait years before seeking help for hearing loss. However, untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, and increased risk of falls. By addressing hearing loss early, patients can stay more engaged, alert, and independent.

If you or a loved one is noticing difficulty hearing, don’t delay. A simple hearing test can determine if hearing aids might help. With today’s technology, solutions are more effective—and more discreet—than ever before.

Dr. Tiffany Daniel

silience training: Breathing – Techniques that can help relieve anxiety and can be used anywhere and anytime.

Meditation – Enhances focus and concentration, settles the mind, and promotes a sense of wellbeing.

Mindful Movement – Postures that bring the body through its natural range of motion to enhance strength and flexibility and reinforce the connection between mind and body.

Guided Rest – Guided exercises can lead to deep and profound relaxation.

Gratitude – Simple practices that promote a positive outlook.

And then we have the Equine Facilitated Therapy, used for personal Please see “Mindfulness,” page 44

301-805-6805

A Complete Contouring Solution Transform Your Body With 360 Liposuction

By Jonathan Johnson, MD Capital Surgical Center

If you’ve struggled with stubborn fat that won’t go away despite diet and exercise, 360 liposuction might be the ultimate solution for achieving the sculpted body you desire. Unlike traditional liposuction, which focuses on specific areas, 360 liposuction provides a comprehensive, full-body contouring approach to enhance your natural shape from every angle.

What Is 360 Liposuction?

360 liposuction, also known as Lipo 360, is an advanced body contouring procedure that targets multiple areas of the midsection, including the: • Abdomen • Flanks (love handles) • Lower back • Upper back • Waistline By addressing fat deposits around the entire torso, this technique creates a more balanced, 360-degree transformation, enhancing the natural curves of the body.

How Does 360 Liposuction Work?

The procedure uses advanced liposuction techniques to gently remove excess fat while sculpting a smoother, more contoured appearance. Depending on your needs, your provider may use: • Tumescent liposuction (a minimally invasive approach using local anesthesia) • Laser-assisted liposuction (to help tighten the skin) • Power-assisted liposuction (for more precise fat removal) Since 360 liposuction treats multiple areas at once, it creates a dramatic yet natural-looking transformation.

Who Is a Good Candidate For 360 Liposuction?

Ideal candidates for 360 liposuction include individuals who: www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

• Have stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise • Are close to their ideal weight but want better definition • Have good skin elasticity to ensure smooth contouring • Want a more sculpted waistline, flatter stomach, and toned back It is not a weight-loss proce-

dure but rather a body sculpting method for those seeking enhanced curves and definition.

Recovery and Results Recovery from 360 liposuction is typically quicker than traditional liposuction because modern techniques are less invasive.

Patients can expect: • Mild swelling and bruising for

the first few weeks • Compression garments to help shape the body and reduce swelling • Visible results within a few weeks, with final results appearing after 3-6 months Most patients return to work within a week, depending on the extent of the procedure.

Enhance Your Beauty With 360 Liposuction and Emsculpt Neo We excel in 360 liposuction, fat transfer to breasts, and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), offering cuttingedge body contouring solutions for a beautifully sculpted figure and enhanced confidence.

Save

500

$

On Capital 360 Liopsuction

Capital Surgical Center 2112 F Street, NW, Suite #802 Washington, DC

202 861-2252 CapitalSurgicalCenter.com

Maryland Edition | page 31

Technology MINI IMPLANTS

Mini dental implants are about half the size in diameter of a regular dental implant. This offers many benefits, and they can also be used in situations where regular implants cannot. If an implant needs to be placed in a narrow space, mini implants are the preferred method because of their smaller size.

A main use for mini implants is to install a full upper or lower denture. A series of mini implants (4-6) are placed along the gum line and they serve as the base of the denture. Rather than placing a single implant for a single tooth, an entire lower or upper set of teeth are directly attached to the gum line.

The small size of mini implants often means that no incision needs to be made to place the implant. They can usually be inserted right through the gum into the bone. This eliminates the need for a recovery period, and the restoration can usually be placed a short time after.

Mini implants are also less expensive than regular implants. Only your dentist knows if mini implants are right for you, so call for your consultation today.

Brent C. White, Jr., DDS ThunderBird Dental Office

Available At:

301.843.6171

ThunderbirdDentalOffice.com

6 Post Office Road, Suite #104, Waldorf, MD 20602 • Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am-2:30 pm

Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle disorders such as arthritis, instability, fracture, undiagnosed pain, etc. can be effectively treated through a minimally invasive surgical procedure called ankle arthroscopy. The procedure involves the use of a special instrument known as an arthroscope.

Dr. Gary Feldman DPM, FACFAS

FOOT AND ANKLE SURGEON

301-515-0900

What Are the Indications For Ankle Arthroscopy?

Ankle Arthroscopy, also referred to as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery, has proven to be highly effective in managing various ankle disorders including ankle arthritis, ankle instability, ankle fracture, osteochondral defects of the talus, infection, and undiagnosed ankle pain.

What Are the Benefits Of Ankle Arthroscopy?

The benefits of arthroscopy compared to the alternative, open ankle surgery, include: – Smaller incisions – Minimal soft tissue trauma – Less pain – Faster healing time – Lower infection rate – Less scarring – Earlier mobilization – Shorter hospital stay

Maryland Orthopedic Specialists – Bethesda 6710A Rockledge Drive, Suite #130, Bethesda, MD 20817

Maryland Orthopedic Specialists – Germantown 19847 Century Blvd., Suite #205, Germantown, MD 20874

Phone: (301) 515-0900 www.DrGaryFeldman.com

All-On-4 Dental Implants: A Reason To Smile Again

All-on-Four: One Full Arch Of Teeth, Four Dental Implants To fully understand this remarkable technique for replacing teeth, you should first understand what a dental implant is. An implant is a small titanium screw that fits inside your jawbone and replaces the root-part of a missing tooth. Minor surgery is required to insert the implants. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached to give you a highly realistic-looking and functional prosthetic tooth.

Here’s where it gets really interesting: You do not need a dental implant for each and every one of your missing teeth. All you need is four precisely placed implants on the top of your mouth, and four on the bottom, to restore your full smile. That’s the beauty of the all-on-four. And because the implant is made of titanium, it has the unique ability to fuse to living bone and function as part of it. So eventually, the dental implant becomes part of the jawbone and serves as a strong, long-lasting foundation for your new teeth.

Besides ensuring that your implants are permanently fixed in place, this bone fusion has another important benefit: it prevents future bone loss in the jaw. This helps to maintain a more youthful facial structure – and better oral health. But perhaps the biggest surprise about the all-on-four is how quickly it can transform your life.

What’s The All-on-Four Dental Implant Procedure Like?

It can be scary to get implants for the first time. Most of that fear is probably due to the uncertainty, so here is the step-by-step process for getting an All-on-Four dental implant.

First, your dentist will want to make sure your comfortable, so either local or general anesthesia will be administered.

Second, the dentist or surgeon will prepare your mouth for the implants, which involves removing your remaining teeth that are failing. They will then remove any diseased or infected tissue from your jaw and gums.

Next, they will begin the implantation process. This means they will insert the titanium screws into your jawbone. Most likely, they will place two implants toward the front of your mouth and two towards the back of your mouth so the “anchors” can evenly bare the force of the denture.

After the implants have been placed, they will thoroughly clean the surgical sites and suturing all the incisions. Then you’ll be taken to a recovery room where you can relax and take time to wake up from the anesthesia.

CALL TODAY TO GET YOUR OLD SMILE BACK! 301.294.8700 • WWW.OMFSMD.COM Dental Implant Center of Rockville • 77 South Washington Street, Suite #205, Rockville, MD 20850 page 32 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

Technology NEW TECHNOLOGY – Over-the-counter or Prescription Hearing Aids?

Janice Trent, AuD

The latest technology in hearing aids will include advances in sound processing to manage loudness input, background noise, and speech intelligibility. This is accomplished with a sophisticated array of microphones that can reduce background noise while allowing meaningful speech to be intelligible. In many cases, this is possible when the speech is coming from different directions such as from the front, side or behind of the individual.

What type of hearing aid is most appropriate is contingent on the degree of hearing loss, issues related to word processing and/or understanding, and lifestyle.

While there are many situations where an OTC hearing aid is appropriate for an adult with mild to moderate hearing loss there are other situations where a prescriptively fit hearing aid is better to meet listening needs.

To achieve an optimal hearing aid fitting, start with a hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist who can recommend appropriate over-the-counter hearing aids or cost-effective prescription hearing aids.

Note: While most OTC hearing aids are not covered, many prescription hearing aids are covered by medical insurances.

Hear the Sweet (((Sounds))) of Life

301-429-2920 HearingHealthcareServices.com 10111 Martin Luther King Jr. Highway, Suite #102, Bowie, MD 6196 Oxon Hill Road, Suite #240, Oxon Hill, MD

ALF (Advanced Light Force) THERAPY A Unique and Sophisticated Approach To Orthodontics and Wellness

ALF Therapy has proven to be an extremely valuable tool for those patients who have: • A need for facial guidance • Palate expansion • Narrow palates • Breathing issues • TMJ dysfunction • Craniofacial pain • Crowded/crooked teeth • An avoidance for extractions • Crossbite, overbite or underbite • Cranial asymmetry • Sleeping problems — snoring • Recommendations for jaw surgery Our ALF appliances are certified by Dr. Darick Nordstrom.

He has personally instructed our ALF-certified technicians on the proper design and fabrication techniques to ensure that each technician is capable of creating authentic ALF appliances worthy of certification. The seal below is his stamp of approval.

Dr. Brown is highly trained in ALF (Advanced Light Force) therapy. He has over 500 hours in ALF therapy training and has lectured around the world teaching ALF techniques with Dr. Nordstrom, the creator of the ALF appliances. The ALF appliances are thin, conservative appliances that can be used on the upper and lower arches. They hide behind the teeth, are removable and are basically invisible when being worn. This innovative treatment approach is used to address neurological, orthodontic and orthopedic issues, and the benefits are vast. Each appliance is unique to the patient and designed by the doctor to achieve specific goals relating to health, beauty and function. No ALF appliance is the same, and treatment is pain-free.

Airway before ALF Treatment; red shows very serious airway constriction.

Airway after ALF treatment, full resolution of this 30-year-old patient’s symptoms.

2841 Hartland Road, Suite #301, Falls Church, VA 22043 • www.sleepandtmjtherapy.com • 703-821-1103 www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 33

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Alicia Kovach, DC

Aric Adlam, DC

Kristina Anderson, DC

Degrees/Training: Graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, DRX Training, Activator, Myofascial Release, Board Certified Physical Therapy and Webster Certification. Trained in the Thompson Technique, as well as in the latest evidence based Chiropractic treatments for Pediatric and Pregnancy Care Associations: Maryland Chiropractic Association, International Chiropractic Pediatric Association Areas of Interest: Maternity Care, Pediatric Care, Worker’s Compensation, Personal Injury, Spinal Decompression for Herniated Discs Hobbies: Sports Fan, Swimming, Running and spending time with her family Inspiration: Helping people restore their health naturally on a daily basis.

Most Memorable Moment: Through the use of the chiropractic care and other wellness modalities, she has seen patients go from extreme back and/or neck pain to little or no pain and the ability to return to a productive life. Patients injured through automobile accidents or work related accidents that could hardly function daily in their jobs have been able to return to work and daily activities pain free.

Best Health Advice: Pay attention to your body and don’t ignore the subtle signals. Those subtle signals can lead to a quicker recovery.

Cancer Patients: Chiropractic treatment can relieve pain and stiffness in your joints and muscles caused or intensified by surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Call our office today to find out if Chiropractic care may be right for you.

Dr. Aric Adlam was born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit

Dr. Kristina Anderson was born and raised in northern New Jersey.

She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. She then went on to receive her Doctor of Chiropractic degree and Masters in Applied Clinical Nutrition at New York Chiropractic College.

Michigan where he started receiving chiropractic care at the age of 2 years old. After a traumatic football injury threatened his future athletic career at the age of 16, Dr. Adlam turned down a risky spinal surgery for an all chiropractic approach. After missing only a half of a football season instead of the predicted 2 years; Dr. Adlam was back on the field. More importantly, Dr. Adlam had decided during that time that he had found his calling in life and decided to pursue a career as a Chiropractor.

Dr. Adlam received an undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in Biological Sciences before entering chiropractic school. He then continued his education at Life University College of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA where he received his Doctorate of Chiropractic degree, fulfilling his dream of becoming a Chiropractor.

Dr. Adlam is highly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of soft tissue injuries often encountered in the spine, extremities and the rest of the body. He has extensive experience with the current state of the art spine rehabilitation technology and diagnostic equipment used in the treatment of spine related injuries. He has had success in treating many patients who have dealt with chronic neck and low back pain for years as well as headaches sufferers that found no relief in the traditional medical model. He has extensive expertise in the treatment of whiplash injuries that often result from automobile accidents. Dr. Adlam is also well trained in the diagnosis and treatment of bulging discs in the low back and neck utilizing the latest treatment methods available.

Dr. Adlam comes from a history of highly competitive sports and takes pride in getting the high performance athlete to the weekend warrior back in the game safely and effectively. He looks forward to bringing the patients of Kovach Chiropractic and Wellness Center the best chiropractic care possible.

Since graduating, Dr. Anderson has received certifications including Rocktape, Dry Needling, Active Release Technique, FAKTR (Functional and Kinetic Treatment with Rehab), and the Webster Technique. After having to take time off from Track and Field in high school due to quadriceps tendinitis, she understands the importance of quality rehabilitation and care and continues to educate herself to better assist her patients.

Throughout her career as a chiropractor, Dr. Anderson has worked with a variety of patients including athletes, perinatal, postnatal, personal injury, adolescents, and geriatric. Dr. Anderson works tediously to ensure that maximum therapeutic benefit is achieved.

Outside of work Dr. Anderson enjoys reading, watching stand-up comedy, musicals, and traveling with her husband.

Offering a Full-Range of Chiropractic and Wellness Services: • Spinal Decompression • Aqua Massage • Cold Laser Therapy • Custom Orthotics • Massage Therapy • Ultrasound • Infrared Light Pad • Physical Therapy Modalities

959 Annapolis Road, Gambrills, MD 21054

410-697-3566 KovachChiropractic@comast.net

www.KovachChiropractic.com page 34 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Dr. Anver Khan

Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS TMJ & Sleep Apnea Treatment

Chesapeake Spine & Pain

2841 Hartland Road Suite #301 Falls Church, VA

703-821-1103

Interventions and Therapies

Meet Jeffrey L. Brown

110 Hospital Road, Suite #211 Prince Frederick, MD 20678

Call Today: 410-656-2869 Dr. Anver Khan was born and raised in Maryland. He attended the University of Maryland followed by the Edward Via College of Osteopathic medicine. He trained in Anesthesiology with further fellowship specialization in interventional pain management at the prestigious Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Board Certifications: •

American Board of Anesthesiology | Pain Medicine

•

American Board of Anesthesiology | Anesthesiology

Education & Credentials​: •

Residency Program: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine | Anesthesiology

•

Fellowship Program: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine | Pain Management

Treatments Dr. Khan and His Team Provide • Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) • Epidural Steroid Injections • Facet Joint Injections • Radiofrequency Ablation • Medial Branch Blocks • Sacroiliac Joint Injections • Kyphoplasty

• Selective Nerve Root Blocks • Sympathetic Blocks • Celiac Plexus Blocks • Joint Injections • Peripheral Nerve Stimulation • Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD)

ChesapeakeSpineAndPain.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Dr. Brown’s practice focuses on TMJ, sleep apnea and orthodontics. This allows Dr. Brown and his team to provide individualized, focused care for patients dealing with these specific issues. Every day, his practice helps patients of all ages with facial development, sleep issues, chronic headaches, migraines, neck pain, movement disorders, and much more. His training also includes multiple disciplines involving the cranial bones in the skull, and the discs in the jaw joints. Through treatment, Dr. Brown is able to reduce these symptoms, align cranial bones, avoid extractions, and greatly reduce the need for traditional braces.

His expertise allows him to identify issues early on which promotes proper facial development using dental appliances. If there is an internal imbalance, whether an adult or child, the body does not develop or function properly. When the cranial bones are lined up correctly, patients are able to function, sleep and generally live better.

With that in mind, the team at Sleep & TMJ Therapy takes a whole-body approach when treatment planning. They work hand in hand with physical therapists and osteopathic doctors for a better success rate. Dr. Brown is devoted to helping patients of all ages live a symptom free life.

Degrees & Certifications Dr. Brown earned his degree from Georgetown Dental School and completed residencies with Emory University Hospital for Dental Sleep Medicine and the ALF Appliance Therapy Institute.

Outside the Office When not seeing patients, Dr. Brown is a sought-after speaker. He has lectured all over the world, including D.C., Dubai, Seoul, London, Norway and Toronto. He has also been featured on Channel 9’s Good Morning Washington, several podcasts, and numerous magazines and journals.

Professional Affiliations Dr. Brown is a diplomate of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Gnathological Orthopedic, Academy of Integrative Pain Management American Dental Association, a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and Legacy Provider for the ALF Interface Academy.

Do you have TMD or Sleep Apnea?

TMD Symptoms: Noise in the jaw joints when opening and closing your mouth, difficulty chewing, limited opening, tender facial muscles, ear ringing, uncomfortable bite, jaw locking, headaches, migraines, dizziness, vision issues as well as pain in the jaw area which can radiate to the ears, head, neck, shoulders, and back.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms: Snoring, waking up gasping for air, feeling tired and irritable in the morning, difficulty controlling weight, concentration problems, morning headaches, episodes of not breathing, waking with a sore throat, forgetfulness and mood changes.

If you believe you may be suffering from TMD or Sleep Apnea, don't wait...

Call today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown: 703-821-1103.

www.SleepandTMJTherapy.com Maryland Edition | page 35

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Winters Chiropractic & Physical Therapy

R

With offices in Charlotte Hall, and La Plata, we are conveniently located to help with all of your chiropractic needs. Since serving the community since 2003, we offer many services such as chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, exercise therapy, children’s therapy, DOT/CDL Physicals, and more. Winters Chiropractic and Physical Therapy is a full service care office. We focus on our patients comfort while providing the latest techniques to relieve persistent pain.

R

Dr. Paul J. Winters BS, DC w/PT Privileges, CME

.

Degrees, Training, and Certifications: Doctor of Chiropractic, Northwestern College of Chiropractic; Bachelor of Science, North Dakota State University; Certified Medical Examiner, FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Doctor of Chiropractic w/Physical Therapy Privileges, FMCSA DOT/CDL Certified Medical Examiner.

Professional Memberships/Associations: Maryland Chiropractic Association, Maryland Board of Chiropractic & Massage Therapy Examiners.

Techniques: Diversified, Thompson, SOT, Active Release Technique, Passive Release Technique, Trigger Point Therapy Expertise: Personal/Work/Sports Injuries, DOT/CDL Medical Certifications, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Nutrition.

Personal Interests: Family and Vacationing, Motorcycling (Harley Davidson), Snowmobiling, Target Shooting, Computers

Dr. Patrick C. Winters DC w/PT Privileges

Degrees, Training, and Certifications: Doctor of Chiropractic, Northwestern College of Chiropractic; Bachelor of Science, Human Biology Minnesota State University. AMA Guides to Evaluating Permanent Impairment, Certified Disability Examiner, Manipulation Under Anesthesia Certified.

Professional Memberships/Associations: Maryland Chiropractic Association Techniques: Diversified, Thompson, SOT, ART/PRT, TPT, MUA Expertise: Personal, Work and Sports Injuries, Spinal and Extremity Conditions, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Nutrition Personal Interests: Family, Home, The Great Outdoors, Motorcycles, Snowmobiles

Appointments Available within 48 Hours.

Charlotte Hall Location 29770 Three Notch Road, Suite #205, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 (Next to Cord’s Cabinetry) Phone: 301.884.3423 • Fax: 301.884.0371

La Plata Location 101 Centennial Street, Suite A, La Plata, MD 20646 Phone: 301.934.9762 • Fax: 301.884.0371

www.DocWinters.com page 36 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Austin Moon, DC

Energize Your Adventures With Personalized Care 9051 Baltimore National Pike Suite #3F Ellicott City, MD 21042

443-201-1771 Jumpstart your path to ultimate spinal health in our modern sanctuary of healing.

Dr. Austin Moon is the founder and lead chiropractor at Adaptive Chiropractic in Ellicott City. A proud graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, Dr. Moon specializes in the Gonstead Technique—a precise, results-driven approach known for its effectiveness in identifying and correcting the root cause of spinal issues. With over four years of experience and 100+ hours of specialized training, Dr. Moon offers a level of care that blends scientific rigor with a compassionate, personalized touch.

What sets Dr. Moon apart is his commitment to helping each patient feel empowered on their journey toward better health. He takes the time to analyze X-rays, perform detailed spinal assessments, and explain each adjustment clearly so patients know what to expect. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, migraines, or general wellness goals, Dr. Moon tailors care plans to support long-term healing—not just temporary relief.

Originally from Honolulu and raised in Ellicott City, Dr. Moon is deeply rooted in the community he serves. Outside the office, he enjoys board games, Ultimate Frisbee, and discovering new restaurants. After attending University of Maryland and working in Hawaii, Dr. Moon wanted to come back to his hometown to open up his practice.

www.AdaptiveChiro.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 37

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

E. Taylor Meiser, Jr., DDS Light Up Your Smile 37 Old Solomons Island Road Annapolis, MD

410-224-4411

What Do You Need This Spring?

Meet E. Taylor Meiser, Jr.

– Brighter/ Whiter Smile – Straighter Smile – Healthier Smile – Chairside Bleaching – Invisible Aligners

We Offer a Full Compliment Of Dental Care Before

After

Take a nice portrait once treatment is complete at

AC Portraiture

Degrees/Training: DDS, University of Maryland Dental School; General Practice Residency, San Diego Naval Hospital; Prosthodontics Residency, Naval Dental School, Bethesda; U.S. Navy Dental Corps Officer, Commander, USN, (retired).

Professional Memberships: American Dental Association, Maryland State Dental Association, Anne Arundel County Dental Society, Annapolis Dental Study Club, Chesapeake Implant Study Club, University of Maryland Alumni Association.

Practice Philosophy: To follow the “Golden Rule” in all aspects of professional dental care, providing outstanding quality dentistry in a caring, comfortable and comprehensive manner. Lighthouse Family Dentistry will “Light Up Your Smile.”

with our

15% Off Special www.BlissfulDental.com 9821 Greenbelt Road, Suite #205, Lanham, MD 20706

301-552-2662

page 38 | Your HEALTH Magazine

www.LighthouseFamilyDentistry.com 301-805-6805

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Howard Horowitz, DPM

Alan Weiss, MD AND Kim Weiss, RN

Trusted Experts in Foot Care

Annapolis Integrative Medicine

14999 Health Center Drive Suite #112, Bowie, MD

301-464-5900

Meet Howard Horowitz Dr. Horowitz arrived in the Washington metro area in 1986 and established Bowie Foot and Ankle later that year. He quickly joined the staff at the newly opened Bowie Health Center Surgery Center. Dr. Horowitz enjoys the general nature of his practice and sees patients of all ages with a variety of foot problems. He especially enjoys dealing with the orthopedic nature of many podiatric problems, whether they be of recent onset or long standing. He has found that chronic problems affecting the ankle, knee, hip or back, can often be traced to recent symptoms within the foot, or vice versa.

Dr. Horowitz has been practicing in the Bowie area for over 25 years. He graduated from the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine with a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine and did his postgraduate training in podiatric medicine and surgery in association with the Podiatry Group of Greater New York and the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Horowitz remained in New York for an additional two years to practice with several of his training program’s attending doctors in order to further hone his medical and surgical skills. Dr. Horowitz continues to expand his knowledge in podiatric medicine, in an effort to bring advances in treatment and technology to his patients.

Professional Affiliations: American Podiatric Medical Association, Maryland Podiatric Medical Association and American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine Special Interests: Chronic foot and ankle musculoskeletal issues, Orthopedics, Surgery Board Certifications: Podiatric Surgery - American Board of Medical Specialties in Podiatry; Podiatric Surgery, Podiatric Orthopedics - American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics and Medicine, Prosthetics, Custom Orthotic / Brace Fabrication and Shoe Modification Family: Wife: Karin and Children: Aliza and Talia

Meet Alan Weiss Dr. Weiss received his Bachelor of Arts from University of Virginia, and his Doctor of Medicine from McGill University. His Post-Graduate Training Includes: University of Hawaii Internship in Medicine, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital (Boston) Residency in Internal Medicine, Board Certified Internal Medicine, Fellow American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.

Practice Philosophy: Combining the best of conventional treatments, natural approaches and alternative strategies.

Areas of Interest: • • • • • •

Expert treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia Nutritional strategies and weight loss, including HCG protocol Bio-Te Hormone Replacement Addressing thyroid problems and adrenal fatigue using natural and holistic therapies Intravenous therapies Combining the best of conventional and holistic therapies to address chronic and complex health care issues • Anti-Aging protocols using Botox, Dysport and Peptide Therapy

Meet Kim

Kim has had a wide variety of experience as a nurse, from ICU service to Oncology nursing, and is an expert with IV therapies and is committed to her patients being comfortable, safe and well informed.

Kim has been utilizing IV therapies very safely and therapeutically with over 25 years as an IV Nurse, has been administering nutritional and integrative IV’s in many different settings and practices throughout Maryland and Massachusetts. She is able to tailor these therapies to meet individual needs and requirements. Many people can benefit from these therapies and they can jumpstart your road to recovery and health.

Treatments Offered Include: • • • • • • •

IV Therapies: Vitamin C Drips, Meyers Cocktails, Glutathione, Mineral IV's, Alpha Lipoic Drips. B12/MIC injections Botox/Dysport Morpheus8, Votiva (vaginal rejuvenation, especially for urinary incontinence) Traditional Microneedling treatments VIPeels including NEW BODY PEELS Heidelberg PH Capsule Testing

14999 Health Center Drive Suite #112, Bowie, MD

301-464-5900

www.BowieFootandAnkle.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

AnnapolisIntegrativeMedicine.com Maryland Edition | page 39

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Renee Bovelle, MD Ophthalmology

Your Best Vision Is Our Focus 301-805-4664 12200 Annapolis Road Suite #116 Glenn Dale, MD 20769 EnvisionEyeandLaser.com

Meet Dr. Bovelle Board Certified, Ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology

Degrees, Training and Certificates: UCLA Medical School; Yale University Hospital for Residency; Louisiana State University for Cornea and Refractive Fellowship

Professional Memberships/Associations: American Academy of Ophthalmology; American Society of Cataract and

Refractive Surgery; International Society of Refractive Surgery

Areas of Interest: All laser custom LASIK; Cataract Surgery; Botox; Dermal Fillers; Cornea Comprehensive Ophthalmology

Practice Philosophy: Envision Eye and Laser is committed

to delivering superior ophthalmic care with state-of-the-art technology and patient education in a caring, compassionate

William Baca, DC End Your Pain, Reclaim Life 13513 Osprey Lane Solomons, MD 20688

301-247-4723 Meet William Baca

Dr. William Baca is a seasoned chiropractor with 24 years of experience and board certification, practicing in Maryland with physical therapy privileges. His journey into chiropractic began as a young patient following a judo injury, sparking a lifelong commitment to holistic care. After serving as a radar operator in the Navy and working as an EMT, he earned his Doctorate in Chiropractic from Palmer College in 1999. Dr. Baca practiced in Nevada before rejoining the Navy as an Aerospace and Operational Physiologist, all while continuing patient care.

Now based in Solomons, he adopts a “whole person” approach to address the root causes of pain. Dr. Baca has a dedicated patient base, including weekly visits to the Amish and Mennonite community. He and his wife, Kellie, run Baca Chiropractic Services, a flexible, home-based practice that prioritizes personalized care.

environment. We cater to a diverse population of adults and work with your primary care physician to improve the quality of your overall health and life. Your best vision is our focus. page 40 | Your HEALTH Magazine

www.BacaChiro.com 301-805-6805

Featured Health Professionals Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Craig A. Smith, DDS

Sarah A. Merritt, MD Pain Management Specialist

General Dentistry/ Family Dentist

4000 Mitchellville Road Suite B322 Bowie, MD 20716

7201 Hanover Parkway Suite A, Greenbelt, MD

301-446-1784

301-860-0305

Meet Craig A. Smith Dr. Craig Smith is committed to health through dentistry, ensuring you have optimal oral health which contributes to your overall health and well-being.

Quality service, advanced technology and a passionate commitment to education means patients receive the best that dentistry has to offer.

Dr. Smith’s Philosophy: Always listen to the patient and in turn respond in an educational manner so that the patient will understand.

Degrees, Training, and Certificates: Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) - Howard University College of Dentistry; 2 Year General Practice Residency; Chief Resident - Harlem Hospital Center (Affiliate of Columbia University); Certified Invisalign Provider Professional Memberships: National Dental Association Areas of Interest: All phases of dentistry - cosmetic, implant, crowns and bridges, root canals, veneers, preventive care, Invisalign and whitening.

Hobbies: Mountain biking, racquetball, golfing, and boating.

My interests are to continue to deliver quality dentistry and to further reach out to the community to help to increase the peace.

Additional: Many patients do not understand the importance of a healthy mouth, as health problems could arise. I want to educate all of my patients on health through dentistry.

Zoom! Whitening Special Now Only $399 (Regular Price 699) $

Expires 06/30/25

www.CraigASmithDDS.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Meet Sarah A. Merritt My Degrees & Training: Majored in Biology Birmingham-Southern College and graduating Phi Beta Kappa.

During medical school at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, Dr. Merritt was selected for the prestigious Howard Hughes Medical Institute-National Institutes of Health Research Scholars program, and worked for a year during medical school as a researcher at the NIH in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Merritt performed her residency at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, and pursued extra fellowship training in pain management at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institute. Her training included the full spectrum of pain management techniques, including interventional pain management and pain medication management.

Professional Memberships: Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management through the ABMS, the gold standard in physician certification. She has practiced in a variety of settings since training, including Johns Hopkins. She has also volunteered her time to travel to India, providing anesthesia for cleft lip and palate surgeries.

LifeStreamHealth.com

Maryland Edition | page 41

Doesn't Your Child Deserve the Best?

Let’s Get Physical Making Physical Activity a Part Of Your Family Life

Loving Care Pediatrics Janet V. Johnson, MD Board Certified in Pediatrics Adolescent Medicine by the American Academy of Pediatrics Board Certifiedand in Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics 3311 Toledo Terrace Suite C-201, Hyattsville, Maryland 20782 Mon–Fri, 9:00 am–5:00 pm | Office: (301) 403-8808 or Alt: (301) 403-1341

I

was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Attended undergraduate college at Hunter College in New York, received my masters at Long Island University in Brooklyn New York and completed my medical degree at State University of New York at Buffalo, School of Medicine in 1991.

Our Vision is

many others, please call the office at 301403-8808 to schedule a visit. We look forward to seeing you at Loving Care Pediatrics— Janet Johnson MD and Staff.

addition, I am dedicated to volunteering to beInmyrecognized in the community it serves for time to community outreach projects, youth groups, health fairs, various church and clinical compassionate patient service, Our excellence.

Staff My postdoctoral training was received at functions and committee boards as well as From left to right: Ama, Medical Assistant; To create caring a commitment to Howard University/District of Columbia for thoseawho are less environment fortunate. Donating with Dr. Johnson; May, Medical Assistant.

Hospitals combined Residency Program, of my talents, time and treasures and giving Insurances Accepted foster a work environment where individual diversity Department of Pediatrics in Washington, DC back and serving those who are in need. I completed in June 1994. I served as Chief am an active member in The Prince George’s Aetna, CareFirst Blue Cross, Blue Choice, is valued andAdvisory recognized, also theAmerichoice, satisfaction Amerigroup, United Health Community Group and served as where Resident for the Department of Pediatrics, Care, Teamsters, Tricare, Maryland January 1994. I obtained Continuity Clinic the Medical Director for the Mid-Maryland of all patients regardless of their background the Medicaid, and Other is Major Insurers Awards from 1991 to 1993 based on partic- Mission of Mercy two day free Dental Clinic ipation and involvement in community fundamental clinics sponsored by Catholic Charities Archdiocese goal of our every Integrity: We are consistent and honest during my residency training. of Washington in August 2013. in word and deed. Commit to the highest action, with the practice of standards of ethical conduct, respect, comI am Licensed in Maryland, Board Certified Practice Philosophy petence and safety. in Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine Janet Johnson MD and Travel Health medicine being recognized and and a Fellow of the American Academy of Medicine is committed to servicing its Quality: We provide service excellence in patients, and community by providPediatrics. honored asparents a uniquely noble pursuit. meeting client expectations. We ensure comI have been in Private Practice for 22 years.

I practice general pediatrics: examining, diagnosing and treating most of the diseases of children from birth to 21 years of age.

With referral to specialists when the need arise. The practice is certified by the Prince George’s Health Department to administer Yellow Fever Vaccination. The practice provides vaccines for overseas travel to those individuals traveling out of the country and in need of an official certificate of vaccination (Yellow Book).

ing excellent and compassionate health care mitment to excellence for our patient and service to a culturally diverse population that communities. promotes the dignity and well-being of the people we serve.

Respect: We behave in a way that honors self and others. There is respect for diversity Vision Statement and individual differences. We embrace that Janet Johnson and Travel Health Medicine diversity of individuals, ideas and expressions goal is to be recognized in the community so as to achieve better multicultural underit serves for compassionate patient service, standing of our fellow man. and clinical excellence. To create a caring environment with a commitment to foster a Collaboration: Cultivate positive relationwork environment where individual diversi- ships while embracing diversity. ty is valued and recognized, also where the satisfaction of all patients regardless of their Commitment: We demonstrate dedication to background is the fundamental goal of our our work, personal development, the organievery action, with the practice of medicine zation, the mission and the vision. being recognized and honored as a uniquely Accountability: We follow through and are noble pursuit. answerable for our performance.

Company Values Empowerment: Recognize individual Core Values strengths and encourage learning.

These core values bring to life our mission

Call today to make an appointment! 301-403-8808

I make every attempt to ensure medical care to my patients is as convenient as possible.

If your child becomes ill during the night you may contact the office via the answering service and speak with me for an emergent next day appointment. We also have same day appointments. Most insurances are accepted including: Aetna, Care first Blue Cross, Blue Choice, Amerigroup, Americhoice United and place special demands on how we Stewardship: Serve society and our global Health care, Teamsters, Tricare, most govern- behave. community as well as manage our resources ment plans, Maryland Medicaid, self-pay, and properly.

A Unique Blend Of Psychic Services, Meditation Practices & Healing Services

Hope to educate & inspire. Empowering a community to come together and build a more conscious world.

Tarot & Intuitive Readings

Soulmate Specialist Restoring Love & Creating Pathways To Your Soulmate

Spiritual Healing Services Chakra & Aura Balancing / Cleansing Life Path Manifesting Crystal & Sound Healing

410-381-5151

7262 Cradelrock Way, South, Columbia, MD

Same Day Appointments Available • Must Be 18+ Years Old

page 42 | Your HEALTH Magazine

By Janet V. Johnson, MD Loving Care Pediatrics Everyone can benefit from regular exercise. Kids who are active will: • have stronger muscles and bones • have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat • be less likely to become overweight • decrease the risk of developing type

2 diabetes • lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels • have a better outlook on life While enjoying the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better. They are also better able to handle physical and emotional challenges, such as: from running to catch a bus to studying for a test.

There Are a Lot Of Ways To Get the Physical Activity You Need Make sure your child or adolescent is doing three types of physical activity: aerobic activity, muscle strengthening and bone strengthening.

To meet the guidelines for aerobic activity, basically anything counts, as long as it’s done at a moderate- or vigorous-intensity for at least 10 minutes at a time for about 60 minutes a day. Many of the physical activities Please see “Get Physical,” page 63

The Ultimate Healing Restoring Body, Mind & Spirit

By Sabrina Milanovich Psychic Meditation Center Energy Quantum Healing Energy quantum healing operates on the principle that the body’s innate energy field extends beyond its physical boundaries, connecting with the Earth’s magnetic field and traversing various dimensions within the spiritual realm.

This method focuses on identifying and rectifying congested negative energy, facilitating the restoration of a harmonious flow of positive energy throughout the entire human energy system. By addressing imbalances and disturbances within this system, energy quantum healing aims to integrate the body, mind, and soul in order to foster holistic health and facilitating the healing process. Practitioners believe that resolving energy field disturbances can prevent potential physical manifestations of illness in the future.

Holistic Therapies Meditation, sound immersion, aura, chakra balancing and healing exert a tangible impact on the body, constituting a form of vibrational medicine that may influence heart

rate, blood pressure, and brain wave patterns. Sound waves, in particular, emit vibrations that are thought to penetrate and interact with the physical body and its major systems, accessing the aura and chakra systems to alleviate spiritual blockages and alleviate tension and stress. Sessions incorporating meditation, sound immersion, and healing techniques have been shown to alleviate physical discomfort in certain individuals, as well as mitigate anxiety and depression, and address emotional imbalances and past traumas.

Keep in mind that these therapies are complementary and should be used in conjunction with conventional medical care.

Intuitive Guidance Intuitive readings can offer an understanding of various life situations, shedding light on your life path, and providing guidance on aligning your goals with your destiny. Anticipate receiving insights aimed at addressing challenges and identifying opportunities. Gain clarity on personal growth and navigating life’s complexities, empowering you to make informed decisions and pursue positive changes.

301-805-6805

A rechargeable hearing device for

morning news to late night tv

410-672-1233 2654 Brandermill Boulevard Gambrills

410-672-1244

479 Jumpers Hole Road, Suite #203A Severna Park

410-956-2555 9 Lee Airpark Drive, Suite #500B Edgewater

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 43

Mindfulness development and learning that can be used effectively for both adults and youth where they are offered social activities based on their horse experience.

This type of training provides positive results to improve cognitive functions including strategies for organized behavior and self-awareness with mindfulness skills as a recovery tool for in-

From page 30

dividuals under enormous amounts of stress.

This therapy is also known to be beneficial in improving motor skills for those seeking treatment for cerebral palsy, Downs syndrome, autism, and sensory integration disorder. When this type of therapy is offered, we partner with equine and physical therapist.

COPD: When Is It Time To Choose Hospice Care?

By Monica Ferebee, RN, BSN, MSED, CHPN, Clinical Manager, Hospice of the Chesapeake

Follow @YourHealthDMV

page 44 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Diseases related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, make up the fourth highest cause of death in the United States.

Yet less than 10% of hospice care includes COPD patients. To understand why more don’t take advantage of hospice’s compassionate end-of-life care, we need to take a closer look at

this disease.

COPD is a group of diseases that cause inflammation in the airways and the lungs. The alveoli, or air sacs, collapse and the bronchial tubes stiffen.

Inhaling and exhaling is like drinking a thick milkshake through a small straw.

Though the disease is uncurable, with medical and respiratory therapy people can live with COPD for decades. Changes are slow and subtle, so they get accustomed to each stage of decreased abilities. Where once they could climb steps, they need a cane.

Where once they could get out of bed without assistance, they need a walker.

Patients can continue in this stepdown trajectory of managing flare-ups for years. They may not notice they have become less able to recover from each incident. One day, the medical and respiratory therapies that once helped become less effective. This, the fourth stage, comes with chronic fatigue, intractable cough, and often lung infections.

It’s no longer a step-down trajectory. It is a continuous and often rapid decline.

We believe and recommend patients in this late stage would benefit from seeking a referral to hospice care. The hospice care team supports patients wherever they call home to help manage symptoms and avoid the trauma of emergency department visits. Our team includes a physician, nurse, social worker, chaplain and certified nursing assistant and, when available, a volunteer. They are all available to care for the patient and family, physically, emotionally, psychosocially and spiritually.

The team plans goals with the patient and family that focus on what the patient wants and needs. And each goal of care answers the “why.” Why give low doses of morphine to a patient? Because it helps them to breathe and is an excellent cough suppressant.

Why suggest turning a fan on a patient experiencing shortness of breath? Because it stimulates receptors in a facial nerve that help relieve the feeling of breathlessness.

Choosing hospice care earlier rather than later can help the patient avoid hospitalizations, dealing with complicated medications and traveling to frequent doctor’s visits. It is not giving up on life. It’s choosing a team of experts focused on your quality of your life.

301-805-6805

NEW YOU FOR THE Spring

Fresh, Local, Certified, Organic Produce Best Natural Market For 23 Years

Area’s Largest Gluten-Free Selection Natural Foods • 100% Organic Produce Diet & Nutrition • Vitamins & Supplements

5 /lb.

raw walnut halves

7 /lb.

mixed nuts

$ 99

reg. $6.99/lb.• limit 5 lbs David’s Natural Market • Gambrills • 410-987-1533 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 06/30/25

10 off

equal exchange bulk coffee

%

David’s Natural Market • Gambrills • 410-987-1533 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 06/30/25

reg. $9.95/lb.• limit 5 lbs David’s Natural Market • Gambrills • 410-987-1533 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 06/30/25

20 off

shampoo, body lotion, & other beauty products

David’s Natural Market • Gambrills • 410-987-1533 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 06/30/25

10 off produce

20 off

vitamins, herbal remedies & homeopathic supplements

$ 99

%

David’s Natural Market • Gambrills • 410-987-1533 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 06/30/25

%

%

Elderberry Supplemen ts

excludes sale items

excludes sale items

David’s Natural Market • Gambrills • 410-987-1533 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Offer expires 06/30/25

IMMUNE BOOSTING

!

CBD Produ

cts

871 Annapolis Road, Gambrills (Route 175) • 410-987-1533 Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-8 • Sat. 9-7 • Sun. 10-7

www.DavidsNaturalMarket.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 45

Chesapeake Spine & Pain Interventions and Therapies

Taking Care Of Your Pain Management

Relieve Joint Pain and Stay Active Without Surgery

Treatments We Provide We use state of the art technologies and techniques while practicing evidence based medicine to deliver the highest level of medical care to our patients. Some of the therapies we provide are mentioned below:

• Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) • Epidural Steroid Injections • Facet Joint Injections • Radiofrequency Ablation

• Medial Branch Blocks • Sacroiliac Joint Injections • Kyphoplasty • Selective Nerve Root Blocks • Sympathetic blocks

• Celiac Plexus Blocks • Joint Injections • Peripheral Nerve Stimulation • Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD)

110 Hospital Road, Suite #211, Prince Frederick, MD 20678

410-656-2869

www.ChesapeakeSpineandPain.com

HASSLE-FREE MEDICAL CREDENTIALING & CONTRACTING

GET PAID FASTER & FOCUS ON PATIENT CARE!

Are administrative hurdles slowing you down? Our expert credentialing and contracting services take the stress out of provider enrollment, ensuring faster approvals, fewer denials, and maximized reimbursements.

WHY OUTSOURCE CREDENTIALING & CONTRACTING? Faster Payer Approvals

Less Paperwork, More Patient Care

Increased Revenue

Affordable & Reliable

CONTACT US (888) 418-8801 Get Started

Starting at 99 per provider $

page 46 | Your HEALTH Magazine

By Dr. Anver Khan Chesapeake Spine & Pain Joint pain can be one of the most frustrating barriers to staying active as we age. Whether it’s aching knees that make it harder to garden, stiff shoulders that interfere with sleep, or sore hips that slow down your daily walks, joint discomfort is incredibly common among older adults. But the good news is that surgery isn’t the only answer.

Joint injections are a proven, nonsurgical option that can significantly

reduce inflammation and pain in areas like the knees, hips, and shoulders— allowing many people to return to the activities they love.

What Are Joint Injections?

Joint injections deliver medication directly into the affected joint.

These often include a steroid (like cortisone) to reduce inflammation and sometimes a local anesthetic to provide immediate relief. In some cases, viscosupplementation—a gellike substance that mimics the natural fluid in your joints—may also be used, especially in the knees.

Who Can Benefit?

Joint injections are commonly used to manage pain caused by: Osteoarthritis: The “wear-andtear” type of arthritis that often affects the knees, hips, and hands.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: An auPlease see “Joint Pain,” page 63

What’s Changing In 2025?

Navigating the Hidden Risks Of Outdated Credentialing Processes Submitted By MedPro - Medical Billing and Practice Solutions

Understanding Credentialing and Its Importance Credentialing is a critical component of healthcare, ensuring that only qualified professionals deliver medical care. It serves as the backbone of patient safety by verifying healthcare providers’ qualifications, training, and experience. However, as we move toward 2025, many organizations need to evaluate their credentialing processes to identify outdated practices that could present significant risks.

The Risks Of Outdated Credentialing Processes Outdated credentialing processes can expose healthcare systems to various severe risks, from potential misdiagnoses to costly legal liabilities. When organizations rely on inefficient methods for vetting their providers, they increase the

likelihood of employing unqualified personnel. This not only jeopardizes patient safety but can also lead to hefty financial repercussions and damage to a healthcare provider’s reputation.

The evolving regulations set for 2025 are designed to strengthen credentialing practices and ensure compliance with updated standards.

To mitigate risks, healthcare providers must stay proactive in recognizing the limitations of their current processes and adapt to changes that support regulatory compliance.

Changes In Provider Credentialing For 2025 As we approach 2025, provider credentialing is set to undergo significant transformations, driven by advancements in technology, regulatory changes, and the evolving needs of modern healthcare. These changes aim Please see “What’s Changing,” page 63

301-805-6805

Back pain is the second most common reason people visit physicians in the US, with neck pain close behind. The spine and adjacent tissues are pivotal in nearly all major bodily movements.

Chiropractic services are used most often to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including but no limited to back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, and headaches.

DOT/CDL Physicals $

120

Our Doctors are Nationally FMSCA Certified.

Done by appointments only.

Call today to schedule!

Drug and Alcohol Testing also Available.

Since opening in 2003, Winters Chiropractic & Physical Therapy has remained dedicated to providing expert chiropractic, physical therapy, and DOT/CDL services. Our doctors provide tailored treatments that ensure you make the most gains at a comfortable, steady pace. The ultimate goal of any chiropractic or physical therapy program is to restore your physical health to its previous form. With our small practice, we have the advantage of maintaining personal relationships without compromising our ability to provide advance care.

Choose from one of our two convenient locations.

Charlotte Hall 29770 Three Notch Road Ph: 301-884-3423 Monday-Thursday 10AM-7PM Friday 9:30AM-5PM

La Plata 101 Centennial Street, Suite A Ph: 301-934-9762 Monday-Thursday 10AM-7PM Friday 9:30AM-5PM

www.docwinters.com

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 47

Anne C. Crowley Acupuncture Physician

Learn the Magical Keys of Your Constitutional Type: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water to Make Major Transformations in All Areas of Your Life.

Fire Wood

Earth

Water

Metal

Summer Joy, Partnership, Passion

5 Element Constitutional Coaching Has Helped with:

Anxiety and Stress Management • Weight Loss Relationships • Fertility • Anti-Aging • Pain Management

CONTACT ANNE FOR YOUR FIRST CONSULT ON YOUR 5 ELEMENT TYPE AND GET A PLAN TO WALK AWAY WITH AND START MOVING FORWARD!

Herbal Consults are also available! – anne@sarasotaacupuncture.com www.SarastoaAcupunctureCenter.com – 301-752-2398 (text or call) Want to Lose Weight? Email Anne to learn about her exclusive Weight Loss video series!

By Anne C. Crowley, MAc, LAc Sarasota Acupuncture Center

400 Potomac Street A psychiatric rehabilitation program offering a day component, residential, vocational and in-home support services.

Let us show you how to move from the solitude of symptoms to the freedom of achievement.

NOW OFFERING: Wellness and Recovery Community Center - This is a program that provides support from peers for both mental health and substance use disorders for people actively working on their recovery.

PO Box 939, La Plata, MD • 301-932-2737 • 301-870-3969 • Fax 301-932-2803

Now that we have seen spring in all its rebirth and glory, nature ushers us into the summer, the season of blooms and fullness. Summer is the utmost yang time of the year, more light, more activity, more intermin-

(located inside of Hol-Body Yoga Studio) Family Wellness Services

Women’s Health/Womb Wellness • Birth/Postpartum Doula Services • Fertility Support

• Womb Meditation • Womb Massage • Vaginal/Yoni Steams

Spiritual and Mental Wellness • Etheric Touch Sessions • Reiki Sessions

• House Blessings • Divinations

Coming Soon: • Doula Training begins January 2024 for In Person Classes

Shirleta Henson McKann 410-265-9393 319 Crain Highway, S. Glen Burnie, MD 21061 Walk-In Hours Every Tuesday 4pm-7pm Facebook: DReM’s Legacy Holistic Wellness Center Instagram: @drems.legacy.holistic.wellness

page 48 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Please see “Summer Joy,” page 66

The Impact Of Mental Illness

DReM’s Legacy Holistic Wellness Center • Natural and Herbal Remedy Consults • Family Planning • Childbirth Education • Natural Healing Education

gling. People who live in the fire energy of summer thrive on friendship, partnership and companionship. When things are out of balance, one can become depressed and withdrawn, actually having an absence of yang. Acupuncture can help to stoke the fire and bring the energy to fullness in the meridians so that we have a brighter outlook.

The heart is the number one official of the body and it is the epitome of fire energy. It is the benevolent emperor in charge of all other organs or meridians in the body. It likes to be in control and feels scattered and anxious if it feels out of control. The small intestine is the sister meridian of the heart meridian that sorts and discriminates what the heart should

By Joyce Abramson, RNMS Charles County Freedom Landing The impact on people diagnosed with a serious mental illness is devastating. The devastation often is shared by family and friends.

Impairment refers to the impact physically and psychologically. There is increasing evidence that there is a neurobiological aspect to severe mental illness. Whether the source is genetic, viral, or a combination of factors, it results in physical and psychological symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, paranoia. Symptoms may be influenced by the other areas and the psychological structure of the person.

People experiencing impairment and its symptoms often explain it as a loss or disruption of self. There is a disconnectedness to who you are. How to rebuild the sense of self is fundamental. Recovery requires building a functional sense of self

that supports needs, wants, aspirations, and confronts the effects of stigma. Other interventions include coping strategies and satisfying social relationships.

Dysfunction addresses the inability to carry out the activities of life considered normal to us as human beings. Tasks such as walking, thinking, or making a meal may be difficult. The cause may be the symptoms previously mentioned, medication side effects or lack of confidence resulting from the disruption of self or stigma. Skills training, support, and rehabilitation improve the levels of dysfunction. As any of these areas of impact improve, the other areas appear to improve as well.

Disability implies a broader concept than dysfunction and limits the ability to perform larger life roles such as working, having a family, and maintaining an apartment. Successful rehabilitation in other areas will also effect the disability in a positive manner.

Disadvantage refers to the lack of opportunity to make a life for one’s self.

The cause is often stigma, discrimination, and poverty. Normally, disadvantage comes from outside the person, from a society’s biases and perceptions.

It further erodes the fragile sense of self that has been effected by impairment, dysfunction, and disability. Advocacy and education that can influence feelings and beliefs help to reduce disadvantage.

301-805-6805

H A I R

G A L L E R Y

Solutions for ThinningSolutions Hair and Hair for Loss for Men, Women and Children Non-Surgical Thinning Hair and

3 0 1 . 8 8 4 . 3 5 5 3 • S t u d i o 5 S a l o n . co m

Hair Loss of Women, Men and Children.

301.884.3553 • Studio5Salon.com

Studio 5 Hair Gallery Specializing in Restoring & Enhancing Your Hair’s Natural Beauty Located in scenic Southern Maryland, Studio 5 Hair Gallery is well known in the medical community for customized solutions for hair loss. We provide the finest synthetic and human hair wigs, hair extensions, and top-of-the-head hairpieces. For over 12 years, Studio 5 Hair Gallery has served its clients with compassion and excellence.

call 301.884.3553 for your appointment today!

Please mention this Flier when setting up your appointment.

Private Rooms Are Available For Your Convenience Services Provided for Medical & Genetic Hair Loss Wigs/Full Lace Wigs • Integration Systems Custom Cranial Prosthesis • Lace Front Units Men’s & Women’s Hair Systems • Extensions

GWEN BEVERLY

Owner, Medical Hair Loss Specialist

Whether your hair loss is temporary, due to medical treatment or long-term due to alopecia, hormonal or trichotillomania, we have a wide variety of solutions Studio 5 Hair Gallery hair replacement specialists are empathetic to your needs at this difficult time and will do everything possible to make you feel comfortable.

30051 Point Lookout Road, Mechanicsville, MD 20659 www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 49

Considering Neck Lift Surgery?

Reduce Signs of Aging and Treat Sagging Skin!

A neck lift can be performed for men and women of varying ages who are often frustrated by changes of the appearance of their neck and jawline. Depending on your age, a neck lift can be a short one-hour procedure to remove fat or a 3-hour procedure to remove fat, visible neck bands, and excess skin.

Neck Lift Surgery Can: Remove Excess Skin (Cervicoplasty) • Liposuction to Remove Excess Fat Remove or Alter Neck Muscles (Platysmaplasty) Liposuction can be performed alone or with surgical removal of the fat under the chin through a small incision under the chin.

In patients with vertical bands in the neck, a platysmaplasty can be performed to reduce the appearance of the bands.

Sometimes a chin implant is recommended to improve the overall contour and help with excess skin.

Visit Our Photogallery Neck Lift • Facelift (MACS LIFT) • Eyelid Lift • Chin Implant • Ear Pinning • Nose Reshaping

Neck Lift • Arm Lift/Lipo • Deep Plane Facelift Tummy Tuck • Breast Lift • Breast Reduction

SHEILAH A. LYNCH, MD

BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

BROWN UNIVERSITY Residency - Plastic Surgery

301.652.5933 5530 Wisconsin Ave., Suite #1440 Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815

page 50 | Your HEALTH Magazine

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY Fellowship - Breast & Cosmetic Surgery

www.lynchplasticsurgery.com 8615 Commerce Dr Suite 5 Easton, Maryland 21601

301-805-6805

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 51

Optimum Health for Life Your Wellness Partner For Life Columbia, MD | 301-802-7745 | Lpenkala96@gmail.com

Feel your best self within the safe space of relaxation, allowing stress to melt away! Breath in calming essential oils to reset and realign your body, mind, soul connection.

CORPORATE OR COMMUNITY PRESENTATIONS: • Wise Self Care for Life • Nine Pillars to Prevent Heart Disease • Wise Heart Health for Women • Navigating New Waters of Wellness • Tapping with Essential Oils for Health

Linda Penkala, Author, LMT, Holistic Healthcare Presenter, and Wellness Catalyst shares her passion and heart for holistic lifestyle choices through:

• Presentations • Massage Therapy

LIVE ZOOM PRESENTATIONS • Mindful Meditation Massage (at night, pre-sleep) • Mindful Massage and Stretching (at desk) • Aromatherapy 101 • Essential Oils and Your Pet • Wise Self Care for Life • Wise Heart Health for Women

• Aromatherapy • Wellness Articles • Breathwork for Healing • Her book, The Pause to Relax Ladies for Robust Heart Health

https://lifewave.com/lpenkala • Visit our new website! www.lindapenkala.com

@pausetorelax

The Pause to Relax

Optimum Health for Life

Linda Penkala

Bringing Earthful Meds to Maryland

Come See Us!

The Mind/Body Connections To Lessen Pain

By Linda Penkala, Author, LMT

According to the CDC, chronic pain (lasting more than three months) impacts 50 million adults in the U.S. Pain is more prevalent in women than men, which, in my practice as a massage therapist, is seen regularly.

The ramifications of dealing with the day-to-day symptoms in the body cause a heightened level of stress, anxiety, and fear. At this junction, the chemical onslaught of cortisol, adrenaline, and neurotransmitters work hard to do their job, but it plays out in excess, causing other bodily complications.

What if the mind/body connection can be enhanced to reprogram the signals from the brain to the body to cause a reset, with physical benefits? Such a program exists to end back pain and anxiety by calming the danger signals in the brain, according to Dr.

Howard Schubiner. He is an expert in pain management and mind-body medicine and the author of Unlearn Your Pain, teaching how to rewire neural circuits in the brain to reverse pain. He states the real cause is Mind Body Syndrome, which results in fibromyalgia, migraines, neck and back pain, tension headaches, or pelvic pain. He accomplishes this through his Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy to rewire the pain path, offering relief with less Please see “Lessen Pain,” page 66

Cannabis and Fibromyalgia

• Great Prices • Great Service • New Customer Discounts

Our Story

Medical Marijuana is legal in Maryland We are local Marylanders, born and raised here, and are proud and grateful to have an opportunity to help people through the science of cannabis. We have selected the highest quality product, tested and certified, for it’s safety and effectiveness. Each of our Dispensary agents are highly trained in the science of this product and are here to help you select the best solution for your needs.

Visit us online at dispensaryworks.com to learn more about us, our daily deals, and the 4 easy steps toward medical certification.

240-585-5220 DeMarr Road, White Plains, MD page 52 | Your HEALTH Magazine

By Sharron Sample, CEO Dispensary Works In a recent study, 62% of patients that have tried cannabis to treat their fibromyalgia said it was very effective. Thirty-three percent said it helped a little and only 5% said it gave them no relief at all. With no known cure for fibromalgia, cannabis is a valuable tool for many to manage its symptoms. There are hundreds of cannabis strains that offer pain relief and will improve your sleep. You may need to experiment to find the most effective strain for you. Patient care

advisors at local dispensaries should be able to guide you to products that have been shown to help others.

The FDA has only approved three drugs for the treatment of fibromyalgia – Cymbalta, Lyrica, and Savalla. But many who have tried these medications claim they either don’t help or add to their symptoms.

Fibromyalgia can be devastating and debilitating, making even the Please see “Cannabis,” page 65

301-805-6805

Natural Pet Foods The best all natural foods, treats, vitamins and more

Natural Flea and Tick Solutions Available

Offering over 25 lines of the best natural pet foods: Raw Frozen and Freeze Dried lines including Steve’s Real Food, K9 Kraving, Bravo, Primal, Answers, Natures Variety, Stella & Chewy’s, Honest Kitchen & Sojos.

Dry and cans foods including sensitive stomach diets, limited ingredient foods, grain free foods, and even mixes to help you home cook a food for your happy, healthy furry best friend!

Home Delivery Now Available Gift Certificates Available

410-721-5432 2421 Crofton Lane, Suite 11, Crofton, MD MON-FRI: 10 am-7 pm, SAT: 10 am-5 pm, SUN: CLOSED

www.crunchies.com • petfoods@aol.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 53

ifferenc e

ini a

1990

•M

DC

ng

24

• 20

aryland

hin gton

V

irg

rati

3Ye4ars

Celeb

as

g

Mak i

n

View Latest Editions Scan Me!

aD

•W

W W W.Y O U R H E A LT H

MAGAZINE.NET • M

ARYLAND EDITION

ear Health Professionals N Aric Adlam, DC Chiropractic

DC Samad, DDS Alicia Kovach, Paul V. Beals, MD, CCN Shawn Chiropractic Dentistry Conventional/Alternative Cosmetic

Pam Lauer Optician

Brent C. White, Jr. DDS, Dentistry

Howard Horowitz DPM, Poditatry

R. Robinson Kristina Anderson, DC Robin AuD, Audiology Chiropractic

• J U LY 2 0 2 4

You

Alan Weiss, MD MBA Johnson, MD Judy Yu, DMD, Karl A. Smith, DDS Janet V. Integrative Medicine Dentistry Pediatrics MS, Periodontics

Craig A. Smith, DDS MD Deborah Cheryl Mallu, General Dentistry Marny Fetzer, MD, CPE Sonja Richmond, Medicine DVM, CVA, MAc, Veterinary Hospice & Palliative Medicine Hospice & Palliative

Patrick C. Winters DC, Chiropractic

Paul J. Winters DC, Chiropractic

Beverly, NonSonia Hinds, APRN, PMH-BC Gwen Hair Restoration Nurse-Psychotherapist Surgical

Renuka Jain, DPT, COMT Physical Therapy

Paul A. Samakow Attorney

! ice From Local Doctors

Christina Prieto Salon/Studio

• Dental Implants PLUS: Beauty & Skin Care Health Weight Loss • Children’s page 64 • Health Directory Senior Living • & More!

Owner Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS Angel Wood, DACM Toni Greene, TMJ & Sleep Disorders PhD Beth Albaneze, MA, CTRS Hypnosis/Yoga Matthew Skancke, MD Nataliya Lakiza, LAc, Acupuncture Rami Makhoul, MD CPRP, Mental Health E. Harmon, Jr. Home Health Care Julia Brewer, Owner David Rectal Surgery Colon and Rectal Surgery DDS, MSD, Orthodontics Colon and Pet Nutrition

Laura Chylinski AuD, Audiology

E. Taylor Meiser, Jr. DDS, Dentistry

Articles & Adv

DDS Sreenivasan, DMD Mary B. Alexander, DDS Suzan Ebrahimi, MD Sivakumar l Surgery DMSc, Periodontics Lynda Dean-Duru, DDS Krystle Dean-Duru, Gastroenterology Maxillofacia Pediatric Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry

PTA Jeffrey R. Kaplan, MD Angela V. McClain, PTA Jayshree Shah, Assistant Internal Medicine Physical Therapy Assistant Physical Therapy

Kim Weiss, RN Registered Nurse

Ready To Get Healthy?

Dr. Anver Khan Pain Management

Sample, CEO Alexander Pitts-Kiefer Sharron Owner Netsere Tesfayohannes, MD Management Medical Cannabis Jenifer Cushing, AuD Mimi Quade, Pain Management MD, Pain Mastectomy Fitter Audiology

gton Burton Katzen, DPM Whalen, MD Irene Cady-Harrin Podiatry Alexander C. Nnabue Michael Nursing Services Oncology OD, PA, Optometry Urologic

DDS La Vergne Andre- Richee Berry, Jaimi Jackson Podiatry Pediatric Dentistry Owner, Hair Salon Hayes, DPM,

Jabari Martin, MD Orthopedics

Rupen Baxi, MD OB/GYN

Sabrina Milanovich, Master Psychic, Spiritual Healer

James A. Cleaver Esq., Lawyer

We Can Help!

Penny, PT Derrick A. Martin, PT Tina L. Therapy DPT, Physical Therapy Physical

Ojukwu Ademuyiwa Adetunji Renee Bovelle, MD Chika Lillian DPM, Podiatry Optometry Ophthalmology OD, FABCO,

Your HEALTH Magazine publishes and distributes health

Christa Bellanca, LCSW-C , DDS Rachelle Polk, Owner Rassael, DO Gena Schultheis Social Worker Wellness Coach Ashley Pimperl, MSN, CRNP Hadi M. Holistic Dentistry Surgery OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner Cosmetic

N: IN OUR NEX T EDI TIO

Womens’ Health & Women In Healthcare

Eva Duckett, MD Radiology

50 CENTS

information people need. We produce special sections to focus on particular health topics each month, and profiles of local health professionals. It Makes a Difference!

Here’s what you can look forward to:

July

MEET YOUR LOCAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS – Biographical profiles of a wide variety of local health

August

WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE and WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE – All the information women need about health,

professionals (Primary Care, Specialists, Integrative, Fitness, and more), highlighting their credentials, expertise, education, practice philosophy, areas of interest, and more! plus profiles to highlight the important women involved in all areas of healthcare – from physicians and nurses to pharmacists and office support staff. Will include Profiles from your Local Women Healthcare Professionals.

September DENTAL HEALTH plus WEIGHT CONTROL, EXERCISE AND NUTRITION – Dentists, Cosmetic

Dentistry, TMJ, Periodontics, Orthodontics, Oral Surgeons, Endodontics, and more! Gyms, nutrition and diet plans, weight loss, surgical alternatives, to help affect America’s out-of-control weight problems. Will include Profiles and Information from your Local Dental Health and Exercise and Nutrition Professionals.

October

CANCER AWARENESS and HEALTH TECHNOLOGY – Professionals to help with prevention, early detection

and surviving cancer. Information for men and women, and their families, and professionals who can provide help! Will include Profiles from your Local Cancer Health Professionals.

November BEAUTY, SKIN CARE, & GORGEOUS SMILES – Dermatology, Aesthetics, Body Contouring, Plastic and Cos-

metic Surgery, the Latest Lasers, Anti-Aging, Weight Loss, Cosmetic Dentistry, Eye Wear, and more! Will include Profiles and Information from your Local Beauty and Dental Health Professionals.

Pick up a copy of Your Health Magazine at Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience centers, doctor offices, libraries, spas, salons, and more!

Or Read Online: www.YourHealthMagazine.net If you are a Health Professional interested in including your practice information in the magazine and online, contact us today:

301-805-6805 • publish@yourhealthmagazine.net page 54 | Your HEALTH Magazine

301-805-6805

Easy Easy Ways Ways To To Lose Lose Weight Weight Why We Are Unique • Customized Plans • Affordable • No Contracts • No Hidden Fees

• Programs Run By Doctors • Long-term Weight Loss • Feel & Look Younger • FDA Approved Medications

• Control Appetite • Eliminate Cravings • Burn Fat • More Energy

Who We Are Just Lose Weight MD is a multifaceted weight loss center providing a comprehensive medical weight loss programs designed to assist patients in losing significant amounts of weight quickly and safely. Besides helping our patients lose pounds, we also provide them the support, education and resources that are necessary to maintain a healthy weight for the rest of their lives. We are all about getting healthy and staying healthy!

Our Services Here are some of our Weight Loss Medications: Appetite Suppressants – Semaglutide – Ozempic – HCG – Mega Injections B12 Complex Injections – Lipo Fat Burner Injections – B5 Injections Please check our website for individual plans!

Mention YourHEALTH Magazine and get 10% off all Initial Plans PLUS IV HYDRATION & VITAMIN THERAPY OPTIMAL WELLNESS IV THERAPY INFUSION • Brain Fog/Mental Clarity • Glowing Skin/Acne • Energy/Get Up and Go • Detox/Meyer’s • Immune Boost/Migraine Relief • IBS • High Dose Vitamin C • Quench/Hydration • Super Immune/Post COVID

LOSE WEIGHT MD

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

EFFORTLESSLY CHANGE YOUR WAISTLINE

BODY CONTOURING PERMANENT – NON-SURGICAL FAT REMOVAL NO DOWNTIME

Takoma Park Office:

Rockville Office:

Chevy Chase Office:

Fairfax Office:

7513 New Hampshire Avenue Takoma Park, MD 20912

12250 Rockville Pike, Suite #208 Rockville, MD 20852

5530 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite #800 Chevy Chase, MD 20815

8505 Arlington Boulevard Suite # 270 , Fairfax, VA 22031

301-434-0075 301-603-2811 240-750-3635 703-543–9490 Tues.-Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 8am-2pm Mon., Wed., Thurs., & Fri. 11am -7pm Call For Opening Days and Hours Call For Opening Days and Hours

Visit Our Website: www.JustLoseWeightMD.com www.JustLoseWeightMD.com

Maryland Edition | page 55

Top 10 Things To Know About

The Sleep–Pain Cycle How Poor Sleep Intensifies Chronic Pain

Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists Sleep and pain are closely linked — and when one is disrupted, the other often follows. For individuals living with chronic pain, especially older adults, poor sleep is more than a nuisance. It can intensify discomfort, interfere with healing, and make everyday activities more difficult.

Research has shown that inadequate or disrupted sleep can lower pain tolerance and increase sensitivity. This means that the same underlying condition — whether arthritis, neuropathy, or another chronic issue — may feel more painful after a night of poor rest.

Over time, this can lead to a harmful cycle: pain disrupts sleep, and insufficient sleep worsens pain.

One reason for this cycle lies in the body’s inflammatory response.

Sleep deprivation can increase levels of certain chemicals associated with inflammation, such as cytokines.

The Female Egg Freezing Process In Maryland

These chemical messengers can amplify pain signals, making discomfort feel more severe. In addition, poor sleep affects how the brain processes pain, reducing its ability to modulate painful stimuli.

This connection can also affect mental health. When people are in pain and not sleeping well, they may experience increased anxiety, irritability, or depression — all of which can further interfere with both sleep and pain perception.

Breaking the cycle requires a multifaceted approach. Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Keeping a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends, helps regulate the body’s internal clock.

Creating a relaxing bedtime routine — such as dimming lights, avoiding screens, or listening to calming music — can prepare the body and mind for rest.

By Yemi Adesanya-Famuyiwa, MD Montgomery Fertility Center Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is becoming an increasingly popular option for women who wish to preserve their fertility for the future. If you’re considering egg freezing in Maryland, here are the top 10 things you should know: 1. Understanding the Process Egg freezing involves stimulating

Please see “Sleep–Pain Cycle,” page 63

the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving these eggs, and then freezing them for future use. The process typically takes about 2–3 weeks from the start of ovarian stimulation to egg retrieval.

2. Choosing the Right Clinic Maryland offers a variety of fertility clinics with experienced professionals. Research and choose a clinic with a high success rate, positive reviews, and a comfortable environment.

3. Consultation and Initial Assessment The first step is a consultation with a fertility specialist. During this visit, you will undergo an initial assessment, including blood tests and an ultrasound, to evaluate your ovarian reserve and overall reproductive health.

Please see “Egg Freezing,” page 65

Are you sleeping on the couch...

BECAUSE YOU SNORE?

Maybe we can help.

Over 70 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders. Sleep problems affect both sexes, all races and all age groups.

Left untreated, sleep disorders can pose serious threats to your health. Heart attack, heart failure, irregular heartbeats, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, acid reflux, attention deficit disorder and depression are conditions associated with sleep problems.

At Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment to help you achieve restful, healthy sleep.

Call today to schedule a consultation!

Better sleep starts with the right care—take the first step now!

116 Defense Highway Suite #500, Annapolis, MD 21401

410-266-1644

AnnapolisPulmonary.com

page 56 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Ira M. Weinstein, MD

Steven C. Resnick MD, FCCP

301-805-6805

Understanding Menopause

A Key Phase In Women’s Health

By Ashley Pimperl MSN, CRNP, FNP-C Oasis Advanced GYN Surgery Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, representing the end of her reproductive years.

This natural biological process typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average onset around 51. It is defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.

Symptoms and Stages Menopause is often preceded by perimenopause, a phase that can start several years before the last menstrual period. During perimenopause, women may experience irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms result from fluctuating hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone.

Once a woman reaches menopause, she enters postmenopause. In this phase, many of the symptoms experienced during perimenopause gradually diminish. However, some women may continue to experience hot flashes and other symptoms for years after their last period.

Health Implications Menopause brings several health considerations. The decline in estrogen levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become Please see “Menopause,” page 65

OASIS WOMEN’S CENTER A D VA N C E D G Y N S U R G I C A L C A R E

AT OASIS WOMEN’S CENTER, OUR MISSION IS TO IMPROVE LIVES THROUGH EDUCATION, PERSONALIZED MEDICINE AND ADVANCED SURGICAL OPTIONS

Services Include: Ashley Our • Minimally Invasive Surgery Pimperl • General GYN MSN, CRNP FNP-C

Nurse Practitioner and GYN Specialist

• Cancer Risk Assessment • Contraception • Menopausal Medicine

Offering same day or next day appointments.

Request a consultation with Dr. Baxi.

• Adolescent Care

Schedule an Appointment Today | 240-616-3934 | owcmd.com 7501 Greenway Center Drive, Suite #410, Greenbelt, MD 20770 15005 Shady Grove Road, Suite #220, Rockville, MD 20850

Where Science Meets Compassion Our mission is to assist our patients in creating the families of their dreams, whether it be at the present or to maintain the possibility in the future.

Medical Director Dr. Famuyiwa, a double board certified fertility specialist and an advocate for personalized holistic fertility care, is at the forefront of providing state-of-the-art care based on emerging and advanced new technologies in the most compassionate of manners.

3202 Tower Oaks Blvd, Suite 370 Rockville, MD 20852 | 301-946-6962 | MontgomeryFertilityCenter.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 57

Wholelife Acupuncture & Fitness Center

Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, L.Ac

www.wholelifeherb.com • luquansheng@gmail.com

301-340-1066 • fax: 301-340-1090 Guest professor, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Chief TCM Physician, WFCMS; M.S. in TCM, Beijing University of TCM PhD in integrated medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences Fellowship, Georgetown University & Children’s National Medical Center 3 patents, 8 books of TCM, 30 papers, 30+ years of experience in TCM

Chinese Acupuncture For Shoulder Pain

Low back pain • eczema • arthritis • allergies • cough • insomnia • paralysis obesity • nephritis • hepatitis • infertility • PMS • side effects of cancer treatment

5022 Dorsey Hall Drive, #101 Ellicott City, MD 21042

416 Hungerford Drive, #300 Rockville, MD 20850

Committed to Healing to Achieve Lasting Well-Being

Brittney de Vicq, MAc, LAc

www.WestAnnapolisAcupuncture.com

410-375-9716

Treat health concerns with Acupunture • CHRONIC FATIGUE • DEPRESSION

• BACK PAIN • JOINT PAIN

• ASTHMA • STRESS

Now accepting Aetna, and Blue Cross/Care First.

Practicing in Maryland since 2004.

703 Giddings Avenue Suite U3, Annapolis, MD 21401

• Bunions, Hammertoes • Ingrown Nails • Warts

More than 3,000 years ago, the origins of Chinese acupuncture took root, becoming an integral aspect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

This therapeutic practice involves the

Pain Of the Small Toes

• Heel Spurs • X-Rays • PAD Test

Now offering Dr. Remedy Enriched Nail Polish, a healthier alternative to traditional nail polishes. Strengthen and protect your nails against fungus, discoloration, cracking and brittleness – problems that can be caused by the chemicals found in commercial nail polish. Great for fungus nails; brittle, discolored nails; if you have an allergy to chemicals in commercial nail polish, or if you’re pregnant. Also great for children!

Most Insurance Plans Accepted • Visa, Mastercard and Most Cards Accepted Out Patient Surgery, Ambulatory Surgical Center and Hospital Surgery Evening Appointments Available • www.AdeAdetunji.com

Largo • 301-386-5453

1450 Mercantile Lane, Suite 151 • Largo, MD 20774 www.largofoot.com • feetforlife@largofoot.com

“Gentle Dentistry At Its Best”

Dr. E. Taylor Meiser, Jr., DDS, PA Retired Navy Dentist - 30 years experience We accept all PPO’s • Hablamos Español

410-224-4411

37 Old Solomons Island Road, Annapolis

www.lighthousefamilydentistry.com

Call For New Patient Specials page 58 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Please see “Shoulder Pain,” page 65

Hammertoes

FOOT PROBLEMS? Ade Adetunji, DPM • Whirlpool Available • Diabetic Foot Care • Foot Exfoliation • Orthotics

By Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc Wholelife Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Center

insertion of fine needles into specific points on the skin to promote healing.

By targeting these points, acupuncture aims to restore the flow of energy along the body’s meridians, which, according to theory, becomes obstructed, leading to discomfort.

Shoulder pain ranks among the most prevalent symptoms, stemming from various common causes such as tendon inflammation, adhesive capsulitis, instability, arthritis, and fractures.

While less frequent, shoulder pain can also result from tumors, infections, or nerve-related issues.

Does Acupuncture Alleviate Shoulder Pain?

Research from June 2009, con-

By Ademuyiwa Adetunji, DPM Largo Foot & Ankle Health A hammertoe is a contracture or bending of one or both joints of any but the big toe. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved, but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes, known as the lesser digits.

Hammertoes are more common in females than males.

Symptoms • Pain upon pressure at the top of the bent toe from footwear.

• The formation of corns on the top of the joint.

• Redness and swelling at the joint contracture.

• Restricted or painful motion of the

toe joint.

• Pain in the ball of the foot at the base of the affected toe.

A hammertoe is formed due to an abnormal balance of the muscles in the toes. This abnormal balance causes increased pressures on the tendons and joints of the toe, leading to its contracture. Heredity and trauma can also lead to the formation of a hammertoe.

Arthritis is another factor, because the balance around the toe in people with arthritis is so disrupted that a hammertoe may develop.

Wearing shoes that are too tight and cause the toes to squeeze can also be cause for a hammertoe to form.

What Can You Do For Relief?

• Apply a commercial, non-medicated hammertoe pad around the bony prominence of the hammertoe. This will decrease pressure on the area.

• Wear a shoe with a deep toe box.

• If the hammertoe becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling.

• Avoid heels more than 2 inches tall.

• A loose-fitting pair of shoes can also help protect the foot while reducing Please see “Hammertoes,” page 65

301-805-6805

Cerec Dental Technology

Submitted by E. Taylor Meiser, DDS Lighthouse Family Dentistry A smile is one of our greatest personal assets; it is a reflection of happiness and good health, yet many people avoid smiling because they are concerned about the condition of their teeth. Proper dental care is critical to preserving and, when necessary, restoring your unique smile. And now, thanks to recent innovations in dentistry, proper dental care does not have to take away from your regularly scheduled life.

The dental profession is evolving, and so should your experience. New

technology helps diagnose problems earlier, allowing dentists to treat problems sooner and with less invasive techniques.

The latest in comfortable and convenient dentistry is now available with CEREC® tooth restoration system. Using the CEREC equipment, your dentist can now complete a color-matched ceramic tooth restoration – filling, crown or veneer – in a single visit. This technology uses biocompatible, tooth-colored material, so your dentition won’t be discolored by silver-colored fillings.

What Is CEREC? CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. Translated, it means that a dentist can economically restore damaged teeth in a single appointment using a high-quality ceramic material that matches the natural color of other teeth.

How Does The Instrument Work?

CEREC uses CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology, incorporating a camera, computer and millPlease see “Cerec Dental,” page 65

Are You In Pain?

You Are Not Alone Submitted by Kensington Pharmacy

You don’t need to live with constant pain. Although chronic pain rarely goes away completely, your health care team has many options to make your pain more bearable.

No Gain From Pain When it comes to pain, some people believe that they should “grin and bear it.” Others feel that their health care team isn’t interested in their pain.

In truth, poorly managed pain is bad for your health and can lead to other problems.

• Pain causes harmful changes to your body.

• Untreated pain can lead to anger, irritability, depression, and poor sleep. It can make the quality of your life worse.

• Persistent pain affects your relationships with family and friends, and your ability to do your job.

The longer you wait to address

your pain, the more difficult it becomes to treat. Your first step is to find a health care team that can help you.

Finding the Right Healthcare Team For You Not all health care providers are well trained to assess and treat pain.

Others may have personal biases against treating pain.

To find a treatment that works, you may need to interview several health care providers. Look for people who: • Believe your reports of pain.

(Don’t work with anyone who tells you “it’s all in your head.”)

• Have experience treating pain.

• Thoroughly explain to you the risks and benefits of various treatments.

• Listen to your questions and make sure you understand their answers.

• Regularly assess your pain and monitor your progress.

• Refer you to a specialist if you are not getting adequate relief.

Please see “Are You In Pain?,” page 66

KENSINGTON PHARMACY

From Our Family To Yours Owned by a local family of pharmacists The Tunc Family: From Left: Melike, Pinar, Huseyin and Zeynep At Kensington Pharmacy, in addition to having your prescriptions filled with speed and accuracy, you will experience one of the best services and notice the difference.

With 14 employees, Kensington Pharmacy gives a special attention to each customer that they deserve. Stop by and experience the difference.

Kensington Pharmacy Offers • Prescription Refills via On-line or Phone 24 hours a day

• Blisterpacking For Assisted Living Facilities

• Flu Shots, Shingles and Pneumavac Vaccines

• BOIRON Homeopathic Remedies

• Prescription Plans including Medicare Part-D and Part-B, CVS-Caremark • Transfer Of Your Prescriptions

• Wide Home Health Care Selection

Wheelchairs, Canes, Walkers, Medical Legsupport, Arthritis and Sport Aids, Bath Aids

• Compounding Specialists

• Toys and Books for Children

• Wide Vitamin Selection

• And More

301-933-6165 3737 University Blvd W., Kensington, Maryland 20895 http://kensingtonrx.com/ email: mypharmacist@kensingtonrx.com www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

• Greeting Cards, Select Books and Gifts

OPEN HOURS: Mon-Fri 8a-6p Sat 9a-4p, Sun Closed

Free Prescription Delivery Maryland Edition | page 59

Customized Beauty Treatments Just For You! COSMETIC SURGERY • Breast Augmentation • Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) • Liposuction

4407 Willard Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Across from the Friendship Heights Metro)

• Hair Transplants • Mommy Makeover • Facial Surgery

NON-INVASIVE TREATMENTS • Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®* • BellaFill® • Juvederm* • Restylane®* • TempSure Envi • Endermologie • Zerona

Dr. H. Michael Rassael Cosmetic Surgeon Member of American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery

• Lipolight

LASER TREATMENT • Hair Removal • Vein Treatment • Laser Resurfacing

WELLNESS SERVICES • Bioidentical Hormones (BHRT) • ED Treatment for Men • Medical Weight Loss

Now Offering: PRP Skin Rejuvenation

Call for a Consultation

301.652.9005 For more monthly specials visit us at: www.ChevyChaseCosmetic.com page 60 | Your HEALTH Magazine

Mention This Ad and Receive

20% OFF

All Non-Surgical Services Must Call By 6/30/25 Not valid with any other offers

NON-INVASIVE BODY CONTOURING Zerona® - The first non-invasive body contouring procedure to effectively remove excess fat.

AND Edermologie Lipo Massage Cellulite Treatment

Combined Package of 6 Each - $499.00 301-805-6805

EQUITY FOR ALL premium shatter

FOR QUALIFYING PATIENTS OR 21+

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

duo, 2 cart packs

an alchemist labs brand

twice distilled 0.5g and 1.0g carts LS ST DEA E B E H FIND T PEAKE A S E H AT C RY HECA T O P A

Maryland Edition | page 61

Healthy Smile

From page 12

New Tech

From page 20

needs of each patient. Whether you’re undergoing a complex procedure or a routine dental treatment, your peace of mind is our priority.

Patient-Centric Approach: At Total Dental Care, we prioritize your comfort with a patient-focused approach, offering amenities such as heated chairs with massage features, ensuring a relaxed experience. Our team is dedicated to fostering a positive dental experience, emphasizing

Taking traditional impressions is not only time-consuming, but they are goopy and may not taste pleasant, making patients uncomfortable when they have to hold the trays in place for a period of time.

With the digital scanner, the dentist can obtain a digital impression without using the traditional method, and the scanner may even provide better results since it is more accurate than traditional impressions. There can be more distor-

Sleep Apnea For morbidly obese individuals, weight loss has been shown to provide an effective long-term treatment for sleep apnea. Weight loss leads to a reduction of excess tissue around the airway leading to an increase in patency and better oxygen delivery to the body.

Studies have shown that both medical and surgical weight loss have produced significant results in the improvement and elimination of sleep apnea.

Surgical weight loss procedures such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy have been shown to

communication and education to empower patients in making informed decisions about their oral health.

Total Dental Care stands as a beacon of excellence in dental health, providing total solutions for patients seeking comprehensive, detail-oriented care. Experience the difference with our wide range of services and patient-focused approach, ensuring your journey to a healthy smile is seamless and satisfying.

tions with traditional impressions.

This digital tool can also be used to create bite guards for athletes or TMJ patients, as well as to track changes in a patient’s teeth over time.

Another benefit is that digital impressions also provide your dentist with the ability to compare scans from different time periods. They can overlay a present-day scan with one from the past to see how things have changed over time.

From page 21

produce effective and sustainable weight loss which results in elimination of sleep apnea for many patients undergoing bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery). Many patients are then able to breathe better at night, have improved energy during the daytime, and are able to stop using their CPAP devices.

The results from bariatric surgery are based on using the procedures as a tool and a commitment to lifestyle changes that promote weight loss and healthy living.

Cryo-Based Skin with no need for anesthesia or recovery time. It’s a popular option for individuals looking to lift and firm areas like the face, neck, arms, or abdomen.

Beyond its cosmetic appeal, cryobased therapy is rooted in science. Cold exposure at the cellular level can help trigger apoptosis—natural cell death— in fat cells when used on the body, or stimulate skin repair mechanisms when applied to the face. As a result, patients may notice tighter, smoother skin and a reduction in fine lines and puffiness.

Most treatment sessions take about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the area, and are performed in-office.

A series of sessions is typically recommended to achieve optimal results, though some patients notice visible page 62 | Your HEALTH Magazine

From page 22

improvements after just one visit.

It’s important to note that not all cryo devices are created equal. The newest systems are often designed for precision and comfort, and should always be operated by a trained provider who understands the proper protocols for safety and effectiveness.

As non-invasive cosmetic technology continues to evolve, cryobased skin therapy stands out as a compelling choice for those seeking natural-looking results without needles, heat, or invasive procedures.

With the fourth generation of these devices now available, patients have more access than ever to cutting-edge skin rejuvenation treatments designed to help them look and feel their best.

All-On-Four

From page 16

Fibromyalgia

From page 18

Forefoot Surgery

From page 17

oral health. But perhaps the biggest surprise about the all-on-four is how quickly it can transform your life.

What’s The All-On-Four Dental Implant Procedure Like?

First, either local or general anesthesia will be administered.

Second, the dentist or surgeon will prepare your mouth for the implants, which involves removing your remaining teeth that are failing. They will then remove any diseased or infected tissue from your jaw and gums.

Next, they will insert the titanium screws into your jawbone. Most likely,

are told there is not much else to do other than rest, take it easy and take pain medication.

The good news is there are actually a lot of other things you can do to significantly improve the well-being of people with fibromyalgia.

First, getting a good full night of restorative sleep is absolutely critical.

Many people with fibromyalgia will say it has been years since they have had a decent night’s sleep. Using a combination of lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, herbal formulas and prescription medications can get people sleeping which is often the first step in getting well.

Correcting the common nutritional and hormonal deficiencies of this condition is critical. And it is important to see a physician who recognizes that the “normal” laboratory reference ranges for nutrients and hormones may not be optimal, especially for people who are struggling with their health. Optimizing thyroid, testosterone and estrogen status may

physician will then decide on the basis of your symptoms, and whether surgical treatment is appropriate.

Bunionette (Tailor’s Bunion) A protuberance of bone at the outside of the foot behind the fifth (small) toe, the bunionette (or small bunion), is caused by a variety of conditions including heredity, faulty biomechanics (the way one walks) or trauma, to name a few. Pain is often associated with this deformity, making shoes very uncomfortable.

If severe and conservative treatments fail to improve the symptoms of this condition, surgical repair may be suggested. Your podiatric physi-

they will place two implants toward the front of your mouth and two towards the back of your mouth so the “anchors” can evenly bare the force of the denture.

After the implants have been placed, they will thoroughly clean the surgical sites and suturing all the incisions. Then you’ll be taken to a recovery room where you can relax and take time to wake up from the anesthesia.

Schedule a consultation with an All-On-Four provider. It’s the best way to find out how dental implants can change your life.

go a long way to restoring health and vitality.

Gastrointestinal problems are often present and must be addressed, both to enhance nutrient absorption and to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Bacterial and yeast overgrowth is common as are food allergies, including the under-recognized phenomenon of celiac disease and gluten intolerance. There are relatively simple ways to treat these issues that make a big difference for people.

And finally pain must be controlled. For many patients pain becomes a sort of vicious cycle, with pain causing muscle spasm, sleep disruption and inflammation, which only causes more pain. There are both natural and prescription methods for effectively addressing chronic pain.

To sum it up, fibromyalgia is common, but once addressed can be treated effectively so people can return to having a life they love.

cian will develop a surgical plan specific to the condition present.

Bone Spurs A bone spur is an overgrowth of bone, as a result of pressure, trauma or reactive stress of a ligament or tendon. This growth can cause pain and even restrict motion of a joint, depending on its location and size.

Surgical treatment and procedure is based on the size, location and symptoms of the bone spur. Your podiatric physician will determine the surgical method best suited for your condition.

Article provided by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

301-805-6805

Text Neck

and will often have trigger points that refer pain to other areas.

Simple adjustments go a long way learn to look at the cell phone from the hand, and not lead the head to it. Adjust the height of the computer screen, desk, and chair to find a custom fit. Exercise and movement are essential – take the time daily to stretch and walk, and also exercise at least 3-4 times a week to increase circulation and flexibility.

Massage therapy can improve

Specialist

are ineffective, a specialist can offer more advanced solutions. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI may be used to identify structural issues.

Treatment options range from corticosteroid injections and physical therapy to minimally invasive procedures or reconstructive surgery, depending on the severity and cause of the pain.

Recent advancements in foot and ankle surgery, including arthroscopic techniques and improved

Joint Pain

toimmune condition that causes joint inflammation and damage.

Bursitis and Tendonitis: Inflammatory conditions around joints that can limit motion. b or general joint degeneration that can worsen over time.

If over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes haven’t provided enough relief, joint injections may be a valuable next step.

Benefits Of Joint Injections Fast pain relief: Many patients feel significant improvement within days.

Improved mobility: With less pain and stiffness, movement becomes easier.

From page 24

elasticity to the tissues, relieve spasms, and lengthen muscles that have literally forgotten their true capacity. With the forward head posture, it is key to work the anterior muscles such as the pectoralis, subclavius, and scalenes to break the pattern of hunching forward. Massage therapy also provides a nurturing experience to individuals in these work conditions, whom are often highly stressed from long commutes and lack of human interaction from a day at the computer.

From page 25

implant designs, have led to shorter recovery times and reduced postoperative discomfort. Early intervention can often prevent the progression of damage and restore mobility more effectively.

Managing foot and ankle pain involves timely evaluation and appropriate treatment. Understanding the underlying causes and knowing when to seek care can make a significant difference in outcomes and longterm comfort.

From page 46

Minimally invasive: Injections take just minutes in an outpatient setting.

Delay or avoid surgery: For some, injections can provide enough relief to postpone joint replacement.

Active Aging Starts With Pain-Free Movement The ability to stay active, travel, and engage in hobbies often depends on how well our joints hold up over time.

Joint injections can offer a safe, effective way to manage chronic pain without the downtime or risks of surgery.

If joint pain is interfering with your lifestyle, talk to your doctor about whether joint injections are right for you.

Sleep–Pain Cycle For those with pain that interferes with falling or staying asleep, gentle movement during the day, such as walking or stretching, may help reduce discomfort at night. Mindfulness practices and relaxation techniques, including deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, have also been shown to improve both sleep quality and pain management.

It’s important not to ignore ongoing sleep disturbances. If pain is www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

From page 56

keeping someone up at night or sleep problems are making pain worse, a healthcare provider should be consulted. Addressing both issues together — rather than in isolation — can lead to more effective treatment and a better quality of life.

Understanding the relationship between sleep and pain is a powerful step toward better rest, less discomfort, and more active, fulfilling days.

Get Physical

From page 42

What’s Changing

From page 46

fall under more than one type of activity. For example, if your child is on a basketball team and practices with their teammates daily they are not only doing vigorous-intensity aerobic activity but also bone-strengthening.

It’s easy to fit each type of activity into your child’s schedule.

There are many things you can do to get and keep your child active physically, that can help shape their behavior and attitude toward physical activity.

Start by choosing physical activities you and your child enjoy and that match your child’s abilities, it will help ensure that you both stick with them. Encourage them to be physically active for one hour or more each day, with activities ranging from informal, active play to organized sports. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some examples.

• Physical activity should be a part of the family’s daily routine.

to streamline compliance, enhance patient safety, and adapt to new care delivery models like telehealth. Here’s a closer look at some of the key trends reshaping provider credentialing.

AI-Driven Verification Systems Healthcare organizations are starting to use AI-powered tools to check provider qualifications, and it’s making a big difference. These tools take over tasks that used to be done by hand, saving time and reducing mistakes. They make the process faster and more accurate, helping organizations bring in qualified providers quickly. This is especially helpful in busy workplaces where delays in hiring can affect patient care.

Real-Time Credential Monitoring Keeping track of provider credentials in real time is becoming more common in healthcare. Instead of checking credentials every so often, real-time systems constantly monitor and update them. This helps organizations quickly spot things like expired licenses, disciplinary actions, or new certifications. By staying updated, healthcare organizations can protect patients and avoid problems caused by outdated or wrong information.

Evolving DEA Requirements Big changes are coming to the rules set by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Since prescribing controlled substances is heavily monitored, healthcare providers will now face stricter rules to get and keep their DEA approval. These changes include tougher background checks, more training, and closer tracking of

• Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself.

• Be positive about the physical activities in which your child participates and encourage them to be interested in new activities.

• Make physical activity fun. Fun activities can be anything that your child enjoys, structured or nonstructured sports.

• After dinner, encourage your child to find fun activities with friends and family.

• Always provide protective equipment and ensure that the physical activity is developmentally and age-appropriate.

If your child has a chronic health condition or other symptoms be sure to talk with the doctor about the types and amounts of physical activity that are right for them.

how medications are prescribed. The process for getting credentials will also need to adjust to follow these new rules, making sure only qualified providers can handle controlled substances.

Impact Of Telehealth On Credentialing Telehealth is changing the way healthcare providers get approved to work. Virtual care lets doctors and other providers treat patients in different states, but this has created new challenges.

Providers now need licenses for multiple states, and credentialing systems must make sure they follow all the rules in each state. Telehealth also makes it more important to check a provider’s identity and qualifications quickly, which adds another step to the process.

Tightening Compliance Standards Healthcare rules are getting stricter, and it’s more important than ever for organizations to follow them closely. To keep up, providers need strong systems to check and track qualifications. This means using technology, keeping detailed records, and regularly reviewing them.

By staying on top of these rules, medical practices can meet requirements while showing their dedication to keeping patients safe and providing quality care.

To handle these changes, healthcare organizations need better tools for credentialing. Using AI technology, real-time tracking, and solutions designed for DEA and telehealth needs can make the process easier and more effective. This will help organizations work faster, reduce risks, and provide safe, high-quality care.

Maryland Edition | page 63

RY Andy Dr. HiAT mbia PSYC , LLC, Colu hiatry 8850 bia, MD 73, Psyc com 42-07 403, Colum ative hmd.

Innov i, 443-5 Suite psyc T , ay, mbia Y Matta MEN cine oint/ Parkw .colu LoG AGE 100 5, www EXo - Acup Conts Medin, 5005 , MAN IIR REFL 2104 PAiN & Spor Statio sville fied Nutrition 76 Hill Clark 03-16 Spine y, Certi ioner 208, ports.com land 00, River xologist Pract MD 410-3m , , Suite pines Pear Mary 35-99 Refle ol.co Lane xolog nium l 443-5 l Bell www.mds Dr. Levi , Suite , E Refle nt. Timo kraska@a E 48Facia PA, Pkwy Road SAG CAR Signa21029, and 410-4 sulta barbj 410MAS ioR 89er, age n Pain,Patuxent sville rica, Licensed MD SEN Cole g; 301-5inpa. polita Little rs Ame m, e Mass in Cent com ; 737 Sprin tanpa Metro11055 Senionscorp.co r & Ston Dobb tone. opoli son, ColumbiaSilve ns for g, 410.

Hand Columbia andS B, .metr For Livin , BaltiOptio , www.optio ed www ioN 200, 100 ted Insur ers; ), www Spa, 977, Hand iTAT 65 n® , Drive 1100 ed , 2850 Cent the serSuite (PAIN s Assis lass tatio 55-10 MED 740-0 6655 City; om Pain ding 703- .

- Bond Medi dland 7246 641-4 Wind & 461- Ellicott Blvd. g, al sal.c e Woo 320 regar e call www 410tm.or dent net Spin r dland E k, The 139,1 201, rsity www. e: tions pleas nal bia@ scen .woo Lase d Lee, n Fran CAR SPA Unive g; 918-2 ; www Tran g, colum Natio ral ques ide, Us Onlin etic 604Davi e, Suite MED er, SkiN er, Evelyrolet Drive2 Dr. Ridg 01, 1111 r Sprin more gene we prov tm.or Cent , & Cosm 301- Suite ver . Visit 2104 pa , MD, Cent Chev RE North 49-50 G4, Silvecom tion Ave. 206m vices 8000 Hano , MD, apy 9055 m CTU Blvd. edspa. ns Meds Apgar, bilita 410ttcity. in.co 301-6 Co4882 Suite 2730 914- ngpa Ther 30, City er.co PUN e , , Vida Lawn vidam Reha Wilke npain ure, 410ACU Skin 80-51 Ellico tt West lcareellico Care 410- 374cent Pura er, Lesli Maple unct Suite 113, Rd., treati Pain & , 3350 www.seto . al ess .pura et m, n denta 410-4 202, inthe rapy Welln ter, Cent , 8170 www etics Dent S r Acup108, 153 Mayoewater & Seto 644-8500 ore. ier Goitoowesth chesntalcare.n viCE wate Rt. 50, Ste. mysk .Edg Baltim 8432 Fulton; etics smda er Drive Liya Prem , Man S& SER 604410- 101, Edge , 8950 40-33 r; www Mead dge; , Aesth S info@ Cent LTH 301al, Dr. 120, NTiC Pike .premierde os Suite .com MEd MD www.yate ge 4315 ia; 443-5 wate Suite ANT HEA Dent 93, 6020A, Elkri MD, h, ioDo Tass s , 5. com owrid Dr., www ore Yates 2811 TAL rehab Suite am, Smit PER TAL iMPL , and mate lumb 5, Edge m 2107 l Smile 99-17 Suite m Hall Baltim , MEN re.co Steve Rd, biz 799- 6010 Meadge, MD Suite unctu Pear , 410-7 Dr., , DMD Diplo DEN A. Kank ey 13639 aling.

S ian mbia er sdental.co iNG ing, Dors ord , MS, dontology ma com Acup DDS Cent Heal Old Colu.mindfulhe , Dam 32 P LoS Jemi , 5026 City and iMAG North Dr., D, Elkrid ful A. Mugfs, DDSof Perio tions ,101 .

00, ridge .pearlsmile TiC SLEE Suite Mind 10015 bia; www d 4830 Ellicott CH Dr. David douri iCiNE Knoll 17-27 NoS p Solu 3224 tt City; l www nt, Ph.D Boar 54.

MED E-UP MA, Colum ch465- Ellico m 205, Laure 5500 ; 443-9 DiAG D CoA Gara Slee J. Sfon rican 01 98-24 Park .

MAk Make-Up, RAL J. ing, ADH , 410- Pike, ns.co land H22, niael .sma rtcoa Ave., Ame 21-78 t ENT Imag Columbiacom NATU re, 443-5mbia 100 www er, 410- , nal olutio Mary , DMD anen & Timo 5.

MAN h, Mich 410-7 ging.

Balum 190, an@ c Cent Drive S , www Natu Colu 2104 Permgs Mills Blum ore Natio leeps PER t Coac 860brenn eupty by 8821 , MD nan Suite .balumima Diagnostiry Lake E vEiN 301Smar 312- 5500 HMA Baltim.marylands es, 860Vitali a Bren 42, Owin gloria tmak iCoS oration Quar www Trends /AST Forb Columbia 301- gy410- r.com www l , Rock vAR Glori 05-82 Institute, anen Cat .com com th RGY 2700 MD, .aller N 826 Rest ore #5, d tiona 9742 Suite cente Heal 9400, 410-9 ifeMe www.perm um, www ALLE way ybynature RiTio & Nutri as K. Vein erforvein. land. MD -874- Pike, om Baltim , enba 484- 220, NUT ville ical.c ic er for .cent um/L on.net, 1-866 Mary ster, , 32 vitalit 8004 CY Rock lphys Cent . www pract on, Thom Suite Physical, ld Kirsh553macy MD, er of tmin RMA veriz .com iCiNE 11400 virtua l Chiroof Croft 38 Arno , 410Wes Cent PHA on Phar on m.

0930 ANT MED 301-275- r ng I, www. ofmd 5542 lth Virtua Rd. er nced Tows cy.co Vein Y 1200 hcare.com TivE 21-33 49. , SULT Buildi Hea 44, Adva ing Cent 410-7 The hing ton 840-4545 GER wall Rockville, rt: Tows 100, arma Care#102, Silve CoN 83-08 New CarRNA 410mal healt , 72-34 MA, thMa , Suite onph ARY Heal als, p o Opti Was 7. 410R SUR ALTE Primary Ave, 105, DC, th, 240-51510 pHeal Road .tows DiET ULA ssion A n n a e / ons, 00, 877-5om gia Lo, 2115 Heal Dr. Ste Pike nativ Geor APY vASC Offic Profe f o r West 4. www . bal er Thom . e ore . y Simm 52-10 dge.c Alter ,8241 20910 Vein 3 4 6 ) Hunt 65, www T-Glo n Elain 4 sville for the lthbri 74, 2120 823-1818 L THER ioN FiRM Baltim www Gare e, 443-8 Park (8 land 5571 g MD, cine, 12.12 iTAT Clark 6) alhea Y LAW int 81-15 6069 8659 Kare n, 2078 410- PHYSiCA 715 eld 65 Bridg .optim Mary - V E I N , & , l Medi 443.8 (834 A p p o ABiL tion 935Colum Sprin 410-3 r Dolfi 4 BiLiT rollto .org, 95-66 REH Nutri .com itiona LAc, 225, oN www DiSA 9 6 Colu mbia VEIN ff i c e , S. rapy, ted City 410na Ave, onals TATi Trans MAc, lmed icine 0 Montpelie , 301-4 30, alThe , Suite com tt , MD, ka Bello Targe lis, 301- 654-a s e O fessi 1021 Shea NSPLAN Kiely hysic rd Road rapy.

49-28 h son, itiona more ; ; 7750 Renu ore 8415 er, om nPro ionals.com d& in Ellico es, v y C alThe MD, 410-4 4fit.c LARP Guilfo Cent apy, Baltim TRA trans , Balti Elkin e e, John Mills ozi, MD, ular erstown C h ts@M DVei ofess free2 gs e rienc HAiR 8640 LARPhysicical Ther 0-B 410-988Ave. Owin b HormTowson, GY Expe Janic 803men .MDVeinPr ive Vasc Reist 1030 City; lth CH bia. , Dara i.com Phys Rd., Laurel. ioLo 855212, HAIR ices, , 301410Hea 44, tt 1496 GY CoA ve Invas COM www gy, AUD e Serv 20 Years yinva 220, -884Suite .drhormoz mal Rd., oLo Ellico om LTH ally Revi DPT, FAAA r King io, Hou, MD, atolo , Suite 72-34 Opti /A, oNC HEA 1-888 thcar Minimry Dorm , Suite .min imall www Hem Drive m.

Jain, nal Pike, e-pt.c ess StudDriscoll, CCC n Luthe ons, 00, 877-5om Heal .reviv logy ter nc.co www uez, Jeffe Baltimore ing Au.D., Marti e Natio , www Welln Ellen erick Rd., 64.com 2), Onco Char 1 , Marq y Simm 52-10 dge.c k, 410Hear om Rd. nters Jaime Jhaveri, Bowi (648 land 10710 www.mdo Y 5171 Shifter’sTherapy, Fred lthbri 1011 e 301-4 orf Drive2 Gare e, 443-8 . fmd.c R. Trent larce e n Fran 102, Mary 169 on; 920, alhea Wald Bowi 212, MD; MIVC ical Eye LoG Rajiv rolet l, millo mbia 00, ascu Bridg .optim Shap Phys als: 77, Suite ke 737, 429-2 LMo 964-2 , Colu anpa n, MD; Rest orati h, EvelyChev MD, 2104 sivev 65-55 .cycle 301ssion ie m apea polis tt City, , www THA listic Jr. Hwy, Profe 301-604-31 www TES v Lakh Jutto G020 410-4 Ritch Ches Anna ornia der th Coac 9055 tt City er.co oPH l ing PT, tt City; Sanji Jerrilyn for Vein , Ellicoma Park er, 790 6. 410cent Heal 5130 , Ellico PiLA Hear , Laure , Califn, Foun , k, MD, Cent Ellico MD. 2114 e MD; Cent er Columbia , Tako 1-888to 480- 202, inthe rapy APY Syed Zwic Laser iC Call vat 00, 2036 932- 4237 Nelso pell, . MD HER s , P r i ElMD; nsville, Greenbeltn DC. or go ACT 108, Orin and q N. Ste. mysk 55-89 allStuChap 301- . Dr. Lisa oPR Park i 33 NoT ss s ing, . ; ingto 0930 Suite Cato Burnie, 410-6 Rand rna nos Care 71-87 info@ a, Sadi HYP Fitne .mary CHiR 4040 Dr., Jame Seve .com pat, 860H y p al Train www 301, s & Sykesville Retin Glen orf & Wash www Yash 410-5 hipat 6530 Mahi 301- com me rpho B, Hwy, 487 n Pilate land Exchange 00, ne t Rd. Suite.drma land, Wald VEIN , Madt Ti Profession 812vein.

49-11 hosis St., Suite.met amo 544-2 Mary 5963 Mary Washingto uie Marle 443840855- .centerfor er of 410-5 ions, Md Dr. Old Cour 3, www ic, Adam Suite . Q morp TERY MD, sville; y, 2113 410iCS Sess City, Meta7554 Main , www , 826 CEN Blvd, www 410GER pract Cent www 5310 , MD .com .com p, Valle foNT 1201 E s ster, if ygo LTH 56, Syke SUR th FACS Vein licott nosis dio, 795etina iC HoD Grou Suite th ChiroHone 31-21 ABL stown HEA Nass , Heal The ar, MD, Wes tmin Hunt ntero tic landr MET Dr. Heal oRT or.

Dr., qthyp 410- ates.com and eince , iSTiC E vAiL Holistic e Curodon ery, 321-0808 CoS www more Ideal DC, 7939 h; 410-9 Kum #220 more .com HoL SPAC .thev sispil TiC & MD Orth Exchange.balti 10, ) Spac 367ion ic Surg le, www dox, hite Mars imore Rd., ; Balti tice , 41017-66 , MD more Mans , (410 ervil ; www 23, gery.

Plast PLAS Prac Balti 500, 5961sville tic, 215,Whealthbalt polis, 410-7 4545 40-00 icsur FACS , Luth ombevate. for Rent S nced on, , Columbia prac Anna 85e, 301com Syke plast MD, com RAN ideal 549-9 Adva Rusc .org.

410-8 cs, Gord Road nced id 17, erPri lable land.

Chiro 0 Little ; tic . 410-8 vETE rans Hom n.com donti ombe E Lisa ily Soue York .adva Cent y Avai 114-1 nticgroup. mary Plas ne 3205 om nbelt Dr. gordo mbia .rusc CAR Fam PA, 1048 for Vete 2, 55, ly Ortho Gree rtho.c 1927 3, www rentl . www thodo ce Jo, er Capo , , Colu oME drlisa Hall orf 61-20MD 2104 son e Fami on and milyO S rman , DC, #220 iN-H Cent olph 2109 North 7300 lotte e For , beFa Harri r Pierre Labb e, Croft Perfo a Carr e, 410-4 moreDr. RandPavilion 220, Char 171, Wald HT LoS Shap Dr. tt City, com yLab Pkwy ast.net E ed, Hom Ellico s, Siste r Mill s, Bowi . Happ Balti Donn xent Take t, Suite WEiG 884-8 120 t at comc ioN CAR Pape om , The ery, LLC, ld Kres Stree rsen, cs Defin144, 6605 ily Hand Patu carr@ Righ orate Ct., e.net MEDiCiNE rative CH l.com DanPAN donti 321-8 and 3326 ign.c Fam Surg Dr. DonaCharles e Ande 20 ed chiro Integ Lark Corp .rightathom TivE S CoA InteCoM on edes ry, Dr. 9171 Ortho , (410) ard’s dd@gmai Wayn and North Bond en’s GRA er For 8186 www. @ Dr. 410-280-35 LNES www Rich able Elm; ic Surge 00, DDS #502 Towswww.brac MENT ryn WEL iNTE 6535 on Wom h, Lane .

Cent 3440 , and 75, n34reil.co 65-36 205, m m avail Plast Life, AGE Dr. Kath ENS es Drive Phoenix, mbia 934- Elkri dge; lth.co www gma , LMT, Tows hosis , 410-4 Suite uty.co Linda 69-54 SoloMAN , Colu 410WoM ACC ess Coac 91, mhea 55@Refe renc ue, , morp 40Pike, Old Rd., mann ebea 443-4atiff5 The cine, .mdPAiN 56-83 43 nal verth , #302 @cci Meta Mark Instit Cobb & Welln 410-7 ether ; www h marl insur ed, Disc 66-3888, , 443-7 Lane e Life tice Parkway 730- , Medi n Road iel P. ore Natio disco TiCS RY st. polis com, Mars , land 410e1 TiST and reque Brow ealth. ly Prac 100 grativ Cobb.com Anna BaltimCity; www. STHE isty. eld Pkwy .

490Mary es, 410-2 White Circle DEN Fami mbia 21045 Rd., | pag upon ccimh PRo Lane Cobb.com licott e, 301- Suite Hodg Island ily Dent Warfi 4. www ion s, Inc., piper ) 870nnium Colu , MD S Sand (410 , ABC rnor 2104 Lane Fam Mille 8900 mbia Edit thetic 801 mons stitute.com and Spin Blvd, 751viCE Pros er, 8114Marsh; s.com hetic 5 Gove MD ville SER 95-6665.Spring An9001 G. Colu Pain discin e Lawn 9; 410- Suite mbia Aest . 1002 AL Dr. Metroth Cent White ons r thetic . land Mapl 2075 Road, LEG 7636 . Suite Cat istry, 6121 217, Colu , 301-4 Silve www opros Heal 120, Mary , 7625 n 73, m ntyShea 550, n, MD ingto 21157; ly Dent63-10 6. www Ste. C.co ity.

Suite ,www.metr Ste 6085 Fulto Cou Facil d and Wash MD & Fami 410-6 2123 AFDO ard 0365 dited Elkin er Road ter, er, 100, ; 844 MD 591etic i GY Pokry How ore, mins 410Accre ory .com oLo Shad Bloom Cosm n Roed 0 205 7246 West 7801 Dr. Baltim spine e, MD, Suite LiPiD er, Greg P, 410dersa r Rd., Defor 2091 stry, 207, inand , , NCMon, Cent Carl Drive Belai omer.com way Denti7226 Lee www.

A. mdpa r Lipid , FNLA, Tows bia; 03, eth ore drblo Osle Gate 72-01 Columom bia Kenn 7600 21204 Baltim MD, FACP #103 A. TS 208, stry.c Suite Columati, 410-8 MD Don 3907 iALiS wka, land Suite Rd., on, io, denti , Tree Ghoz Tows York 720 Drive teway gn Stud Plum 80N SPEC of Mary OD, est biaga Desi viSio ialists Azm an, rg 337-0 , 3419 410-4 m md.o al colum io.co LoW as , FAGD tt City; , n Spec Dent nstud Thom .lowvision Visio The nel, DDS100, Ellicodesig Blum www ore Low Virgi nia, ental Damian Coro , Suite 09, .

Baltim .thed and 69-16 es, www Drive , www Smil 24,10132City; land877-2 2000 ott .mary tt City 65-32 , Ellic , www Ellico , 410-4 net DMD nal Pike s.com ine.

Natio ttcitysmile com gaz ellico solutions.

HMa ALT sleep

HEALTH DIRECTORY

page 64 | Your HEALTH Magazine

PODIATRY Bowie Foot Care – Howard Horowitz, DPM – 301-4645900.

Largo Foot and Ankle Health Center – Ade Adetunji, DPM – 301 386 5453.

PRIMARY CARE Loving Care – Janet Johnson, MD – Hyattsville, MD – 301-403-8808.

PROSTHETICS Metro Prosthetics – 301-4590999 – www.MetroProsthetics.com RETIREMENT VILLAGE Brooke Grove Retirement Village – 18100 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 – 301-260-2320 – www.bgf.org.

SENIOR CARE Chevy Chase Home Care.

Help at a time you need it most. Any Ages. Any situations. Any shifts. MD, DC, VA – www.CHCHHomeCare. com – 202-374-1240.

St. Mary’s Nursing & Rehabilitation Center – 301-475-8000 – Leonardtown, MD – www.

StMarysNursingCenter.com.

UROLOGY AA Urology – IR Center, 600 Ridgely Avenue, Suite #120, Annapolis, MD – Annapolis, 600 Ridgely Avenue, Suites #222-223, Annapolis, MD – East Campus Surgery Center, 600 Ridgely Avenue, Suite #130, Annapolis, MD – AA Urology – Odenton, 1106 Annapolis Road, Suite #250, Odenton, MD.

UROLOGY Glen Burnie, 305 Hospital Drive, Suite #303, Glen Burnie, MD – Bowie, 4201 Northview Drive, Suite #201, Bowie, MD – West Campus Surgery Center, 7855 Walker Drive, Suite #102, Greenbelt, MD – Greenbelt, 7855 Walker Drive, Suite #100, Greenbelt, MD. VETERANS Charlotte Hall Veterans Home – 301-884-8171 – Waldorf, MD. WEIGHT LOSS The Bariatric and Hernia Institute – Dr. Etwar McBean – 240-206-8506 – www.TBHInstitute.com.

YOGA Toni’s Happy Hour Yoga and Holistic Wellness Center – Toni Greene, Owner – 301449-8664.

Subscribe Today!

Your Health Magazine is available at local grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores, including:

Giant • Safeway • Harris Teeter • CVS • 7-11 • & more aD

ifferenc e

ew

brating

•M

1990

Latest Editio

Vi

3Yea0rs

Cele

DC

Ma kin

F R E E I n f o r m a t i o n F ro m L o c a l D o c t o r s To H e l p Yo u L i v e H e a l t h i e r ! g

gi nia

ns

HORMONES New Day Vitality Hormone Center – 410-793-5212 – Arnold, MD and Easton, MD – NewDayVitality.com.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Alan Weiss, MD, Annapolis Integrative Medicine – 410266-3613 – 1616 Forest Drive, Suite #3, Annapolis, MD 21403.

MEDICAL SPACE Charles Feitel Company – 301571-9333 – www.MedicalandDentalSpace.com.

MEDICARE Perry L. Johnson – Local Medicare Specialist – 301-793-4571 pjohnson.perry@gmail.com.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Charles Co. Freedom Landing, Inc. – 301-932-2737 or 301-870-3969.

House Calls, LLC – 301346-6732 – CallingOnBeth@ gmail.com – www.CallingOnBeth.net.

NEUROLOGY Charles C. Reel, MD – Maryland Gait and Balance Disorder Center – Charlotte Hall, MD – 301-290-0395.

PAIN MANAGEMENT Georgetown Pain Management – Netsere Tesfayohannes, MD, ABA, ABAP – 301-718-1082 – 8120 Woodmont Ave., Ste 560, Bethesda, MD – 7300 Hanover Dr., Ste 204, Greenbelt, MD. Newbridge Spine and Pain Center – 301-638-4400 – www.NewbridgeSpine.com.

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ REHABILITATION Active Physical Therapy. Various Locations across Maryland and Washington, DC. Active-physicaltherapy.com.

• 2020

aryland •

ing ton

rHE

.You www

r Vi

ACUPUNCTURE Eastern Medical Holistic Healing Center – Angel Wood – 240-755-5925 – www.Acupuncture4Wellness.Webs.com.

West Annapolis Acupuncture – Brittney de Vicq, LAc, MAc – 410-375-9716 – BrittneyAcupuncture.com – Annapolis, MD. CHINESE MEDICINE & ACUPUNCTURE Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc – www.WholelifeHerb. com – 301-340-1066.

CHIROPRACTIC Kovach Chiropractic & Wellness Center – Alicia Kovach, DC – 410-697-3566.

Effective Integrative Healthcare – Crofton 410-774-0644 – Millersville 410-729-2200 – Lanham 301-577-6556.

DENTISTRY Cosmetic Dental FX – Judy Yu, DMD, MBA – 410-3600440 – www.DentalFXMD. com – Pasadena, MD. Lighthouse Family Dentistry – E. Taylor Meiser, DDS – 410224 4411 – Annapolis, MD. Karl A. Smith, DDS – Waldorf, MD – 301-638 -4867.

Craig A. Smith, DDS – 7201 Hanover Parkway, Suite A, Greenbelt, MD – 301-4461784 – www.craigasmithdds. com.

EYE CARE McNelly Optical, Inc. – 410263-2692 – www.McNellyOptical.com – Annapolis, MD. FERTILITY Montgomery Women’s Fertility Center – 301-946-6962 – MontgomeryFertilityCenter. com – Rockville, MD. HOME CARE At Home Care, Inc. – 301421-0200 – AtHomeCareInc. com – Since 1977.

sh

RY

TiST

DEN

a W

Prince George’s County April 2020 | FREE

Beauty SPECIAL FOCUS

Skin Care & Gorgeous Smiles FEATURED PROFESSIONALS

CDC Guidelines

Fact Sheet PAGE 47 PLUS READ ABOUT

s

al

n of sio ry es to of ec Pr DiraltH He

Brent C. White, Jr., DDS Dentistry

Melo Forchu Wellness Solutions

Jeffery Dormu, DO, FACOS Vascular Surgery

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS Periodontics

Craig A. Smith, DDS Dentistry

David E. Harmon, Jr., DDS, MSD, Dentistry

Now you can get the latest issues delivered directly to your home!

• Health articles and advice • Doctors near YOU! • Maryland & Virginia editions • Only $24 for a year’s subscription (12 issues)!

HEARING LOSS CHIROPRACTIC CARE KNEE PAIN WEIGHT LOSS BREAST IMPLANTS MEDICAL CANNABIS MELANOMA

DIRECTORY OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS - PAGE 64

Page 32-35 DON’T MISS NEXT MONTH’S EDITION FEATURING

N E W DOCTORS,

OFFICES & PRACTICES PLUS... NEW Technology In Todays Doctor’s Office

CHECK EDITION ($24 each edition): MARYLAND

L O C A L D O C T O R S & A R T I C L E S a t W W W. Y O U R H E A LT H M A G A Z I N E . N E T

VIRGINIA

WASHINGTON DC

SUBSCRIBING IS EASY:

NAME:___________________________

1) Call 301-805-6805 with your name, contact info, and credit card payment for $24, or

STREET: _________________________

2) Simply mail this form along with your check for $24:

CITY:

Your Health Magazine 4201 Northview Dr. Suite 102 Bowie, MD • 20716

PHONE:

_________________________

EMAIL:

_________________________

__________________________________ _________________________

STATE:_______

ZIP:_____________

301-805-6805

Egg Freezing 4. Ovarian Stimulation You will self-administer hormone injections for about 10–14 days to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds will ensure your response to the medication is optimal.

5. Egg Retrieval Procedure Once the eggs are ready, a minor surgical procedure is performed to retrieve them. Under sedation, a needle is guided by ultrasound to collect the eggs from the ovaries. This procedure is quick, typically lasting 20–30 minutes.

6. Freezing the Eggs After retrieval, the eggs are immediately frozen using a method called vitrification. This flash-freezing technique prevents the formation of ice crystals, ensuring the eggs remain viable for future use.

7. Storage and Maintenance Frozen eggs can be stored for many years. Most clinics in Maryland offer long-term storage options. It’s important to discuss the storage fees and any long-term plans with your clinic.

8. Costs and Financing Options The cost of egg freezing can vary, but it typically includes the initial consultation, medication, monitoring, egg retrieval, and storage. Many clin-

ics offer financing options or payment plans to help manage the expense. It’s worth discussing these options during your initial consultation.

9. Success Rates and Considerations The success of egg freezing depends on several factors, including your age at the time of freezing and the number of eggs retrieved. Generally, freezing your eggs at a younger age yields better results. Your fertility specialist can provide personalized insights based on your situation.

10. Emotional and Psychological Support The decision to freeze your eggs can be emotionally challenging. Many clinics offer counseling services to support you through the process. Connecting with others who have undergone the same procedure can also be beneficial.

Egg freezing is a powerful option for women looking to take control of their reproductive futures.

Understanding the process, choosing the right clinic, and knowing what to expect can help make the journey smoother. If you’re considering egg freezing in Maryland, take the time to research and consult with experts to make the best decision for your needs.

Prevously publised on Medium.com

Cerec Dental ing machine in one instrument. The dentist uses a special camera to take an accurate picture of the damaged tooth.

This optical impression is transferred and displayed on a color computer screen, where the dentist uses CAD technology to design the restoration.

Then CAM takes over and automatically creates the restoration while the patient waits. Finally, the dentist bonds the new restoration to the surface of the old tooth. The whole process takes about one hour.

What Does This Innovation

Cannabis

simplest of chores seem overwhelming and exhausting. Fibromyalgia is a complex neurological disorder that is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood. More than five million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia, 80-90% being women. Some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia include chronic pain, joint stiffness, chronic fatigue, insomnia, general weakness, headaches, brain fog, digestive issues, and anxiety. www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

From page 56

From page 59

Mean For a Patient?

A tooth-colored restoration means no more silver fillings discoloring smiles. The filling is natural-looking, compatible with tissue in the mouth, anti-abrasive and plaque-resistant.

Dentists no longer need to create temporaries or take impressions and send them to a lab. Because of this, the traditional second visit has been eliminated.

CEREC has two decades of clinical research and documentation to support the technology. The restorations have been proven precise, safe and effective.

From page 52

What Can Cannabis Do For Fibromyalgia?

Medical cannabis can be very useful in managing pain. Medical cannabis can help you sleep, increase your appetite, work against pain, and reduce nausea. One of the most common symptoms fibromyalgia patients have is depression and anxiety, and medical marijuana can help improve moods and decrease these symptoms.

Cannabis is an effective treatment for many with this complex disorder.

Menopause

brittle and fragile. Women in postmenopause are also at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases due to changes in cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Moreover, menopause can affect mental health. The hormonal changes can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Sleep disturbances, common during this period, can further exacerbate these issues.

Management and Treatment Managing menopausal symptoms often involves lifestyle changes and medical treatments. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can help mitigate some of the risks associated with menopause. For hot flashes and night sweats, dressing in layers, keeping the bedroom cool, and practicing relaxation techniques can provide relief.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment option

From page 57

that involves supplementing estrogen and progesterone to alleviate symptoms. However, HRT is not suitable for everyone and can have side effects.

It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.

Non-hormonal treatments, such as antidepressants or medications to prevent bone loss, may also be considered. Additionally, herbal supplements and alternative therapies, like acupuncture, have been used by some women to manage symptoms, though their effectiveness varies.

Menopause is a natural part of aging, bringing both challenges and opportunities for women to focus on their health.

Understanding the stages, symptoms, and management options can help women navigate this transition with greater ease and confidence. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are crucial in managing menopausal health effectively.

Hammertoes

From page 58

Shoulder Pain

From page 58

pressure on the affected toe, making walking a little easier until a visit to your podiatrist can be arranged.

• Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. Children should have their shoes properly fitted on a regular basis, as their feet can often outgrow their shoes rapidly.

• See your podiatric physician if pain persists.

Treatment options include changing footwear, padding and trimming the corns and calluses,

ducted at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, examined the efficacy of acupuncture in managing shoulder pain. In a single-blind randomized trial, adults experiencing shoulder pain for at least eight weeks due to osteoarthritis or rotator cuff tendonitis were assessed. Thirty-one participants were divided into three treatment groups: individualized acupuncture based on TCM principles, standardized acupuncture targeting typical shoulder pain points, and sham acupuncture without needle penetration.

Following six weeks of treatment, improvements in the total Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scores were observed across all groups. However, clinically significant changes were only evident in the first two groups. Consequently, acupuncture emerges as a potentially effective

custom orthotic footwear or devices, anti-inflammatory medications and splinting the affected toe. Surgery is recommended in some severe cases.

The treatment options vary with the type and severity of each hammertoe, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important to avoid surgery. Podiatric medical attention should be sought at the first indication of pain and discomfort because, if left untreated, hammertoes tend to become rigid, making a nonsurgical treatment less of an option.

therapy for chronic shoulder pain.

Why Does Acupuncture Sometimes Fail To Yield Results?

The practice of traditional Chinese medicine, encompassing acupuncture and herbal remedies, is intricate and requires extensive training.

Optimal treatment outcomes hinge on identifying the correct acupuncture point formula and precise point locations. Without this precision, acupuncture may not deliver desired results.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Overall, acupuncture is considered a safe treatment option. Potential side effects include dizziness, localized bleeding, dermatitis, nerve injury, or increased pain, particularly in cases where practitioners lack adequate training. Therefore, the expertise of a welltrained and experienced acupuncturist is crucial for both efficacy and safety.

Maryland Edition | page 65

Painful Sex not solve the problem of vaginal atrophy. NAMS suggests the use of vibrators and dildos to help stimulate blood flow, as well as vaginal dilators – plastic or rubbery roundtipped cylinders, graduated in size – that are used to stretch and relax the vaginal muscles. (Go to https:// www.menopause.org/for-women/ sexual-health-menopause-online/ effective-treatments-for-sexualproblems/sexual-devices, for more

Lessen Pain

pain. https://unlearnyourpain.com/ patient-pathways/.

In the field of therapeutic massage, there is a visceral shift in my clients’ pain after an hour of massage, which is seen in their faces, countenance afterward, and ability to breathe better, among other positive changes. The toll that chronic pain takes on the entire frame, soft tissue, and mental peace can’t be overlooked. During a massage, the parasympathetic nervous system is reengaged to lessen blood pressure, heart rate and soften pain.

Massage is being prescribed by increasing numbers of doctors, chiropractors, and counselors as a complementary therapy. The Mayo Clinic’s Integrative Medicine and Health director, Dr. Brent Bauer, states

Summer Joy even consider as important.

These choices are major life choices such as, “am I passionate about this career?” or “Is my heart in this relationship?” or “how much is this my desire rather than my childrens?” These are questions that the heart must deal with and the small intestine acts as the discriminator, allowing only the important questions in.

Once the small intestine lets the information in, the heart has two other officials to support it: the pericardium meridian or heart protector and the triple heater. The pericardium stays close to the heart and protects it from insults such as rejection or non-inclusion so that it bounces off of you rather than penetrate the heart.

The triple heater goes out and mingles with others forming partnerships and relationships. When it is in balance, there is a joy about involving yourself in social situations, whether it is to meet with old friends or make new ones. page 66 | Your HEALTH Magazine

From page 20

information.)

It may take some extra work, a bit of adjustment, and a sense of humor certainly helps, but sex beyond your 40s can be fun and satisfying. Be sure to talk to your GYN about pain that persists and don’t be shy about talking to a sex therapist. Countless studies have shown the health benefits of a happy sex life, so take advantage of that empty nest. Say YES to sex!

From page 52

that the opioid epidemic showed the medical world the limits of pharmacy options, as many referring physicians now send patients to acupuncturists, massage therapists, and mind-body holistic therapists.

One simple, safe, and drugfree pain remedy shared with my clients is phototherapy patches that put nothing in the body. They are a non-transdermal quarter-size patch that reacts to the heat of your skin, and creates light on the acupressure meridians to open up flow for healing and pain relief: Lifewave Light Therapy.

The beautiful design of our body and mind working together to heal pain offers hope to the many who choose an effective non-drug creative path!

From page 48

Acupuncture balances these meridians so that harmony occurs in our body, mind and spirit.

We can tend to our fire energy by mingling with others at parties or social gatherings, or we can engage more quietly by sitting by a fire with friends and watching the embers burn. As the heart becomes more balanced, we begin to feel more in control of our lives. We can also take risks with our heart as the pericardium allows the gates to open.

As the flower opens to its fullest bloom, we too blossom and come to fruition. Like the ripest fruit, we have reached maturity and prepare ourselves for the seasons to come.

If you would like to do a consult with Anne to see which element/season you may fall in, please refer to the ad on page 48. Even if we aren’t mainly a fire constitution type, we will feel it in this season. Also those close to us may be in this element and its good for understanding our relationship with them.

Are You In Pain?

From page 59

Dry Eye

From page 28

When you interview healthcare providers, ask these questions: • Do you have experience treating my condition?

• How would you describe effective pain management?

• What treatment options are available for me?

• How will you select my treatment plan?

• How much relief can I expect to receive from these treatments?

• What side effects should I look for? How can I manage them?

• What are the short-term and longterm outlooks for my condition?

Once you have found a good team, the next step is yours. Not everyone is comfortable talking about pain, but your team needs accurate information to treat you. Provide these details: • How long you have had pain.

• Where the pain hurts the worst.

• What treatments you have tried on your own, and how they have worked for you.

the tear film is an oily layer called the lipid layer. This is the outermost layer, and its job is to cover the aqueous layer and prevent it from evaporating.

Each layer of the tear film is made by a different part of the eye.

The mucin layer is made by the eye surface itself. The aqueous layer is made by a tear gland tucked under the upper eyelid. And the lipid layer is made by small glands in the eyelids.

For the tear film to do its job, all three layers have to be in their proper places in the correct amounts, like a recipe.

If any layer is missing or abnormal which can happen for a number of reasons the tear film becomes disorganized and no longer soothes the eye like it should.

When that happens, the symptoms of dry eye syndrome occur. The front surface of the eye gets dried out (causing stickiness) and gets inflamed (causing stinging and burning). Once it gets inflamed, the eye ignores the proper tear film recipe and starts making large quantities of the aqueous layer in an effort to soothe itself.

These bad tears don’t soothe the eye at all they just run down your face, washing away the mucin and lipid layers as well. This makes the eye even more irritated, so it makes even more bad tears, and the cycle continues.

We are now able to perform scans to determine which layer of the tear film is causing your particular signs

• What makes the pain better or worse.

• How the pain feels. For example, is it sharp, dull, or achy?

• How the pain interferes with your activities, including work, dealing with family and friends, and ability to care for yourself.

Once your healthcare team understands your pain, a treatment plan is the next step. Your doctor may suggest medication. Some medications are available over-the-counter.

Others, you can only get with a prescription. Doctors rely on several families of drugs to treat pain: • NSAIDs – used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation. Aspirin and ibuprofen are both NSAIDs. • Acetaminophen – also used to treat mild to moderate pain.

• Opioids – prescribed to people who have moderate to severe pain.

In addition to medications, other treatments such as massage, physical therapy, relaxation therapy, and behavioral and psychological therapy may be helpful.

and symptoms. This allows us to tailor treatments unique to you. We can provide regimens that include a combination of eye drops or even not using drops.

TearCare has become an invaluable tool for managing patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and chronic dry eye. Primarily used TearCare for patients who have not found relief from traditional treatments like artificial tears or warm compresses. The flexibility of the device allows for personalized treatment plans, ensuring that it can provide targeted and effective care.

Recently published peer reviewed data shows that TearCare has been proven superior to the leading dry eye Rx. The positive feedback from patients regarding both the comfort of the procedure and the improvement seen in their signs has reinforced its role as a key component in dry eye management strategy.

For some people, the stinging, burning, redness and watering may seem like little more than a nuisance, but in fact, if left untreated, dry eye syndrome can lead to serious eye problems, including inflammation, increase the risk of infections, and even scarring. Once scarring occurs, permanent loss of sight can occur.

If you have symptoms of dry eyes see your doctor. Treatments are available to halt the disease and improve your quality of vision.

301-805-6805

www.YourHEALTHMagazine.net

Maryland Edition | page 67