East county health matters 2 11 16

EAST COUNTY

Observer

Health Matters FEBRUARY 2016

KEEP IN

STEP

Monitoring workplace movement can help you meet your prescribed amount of physical activity. PAGE 2 CHRONIC WOUNDS

HEART HEALTH

Lakewood Ranch’s new healing center

National month spurs awareness.

PAGE 4

PAGE 6

LATE RUSH

Runner aims for 1,000 miles in a year.

PAGE 10

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

|

YourObserver.com

FEBRUARY 2016

Work positive steps into healthy routine

BY JAY HEATER MANAGING EDITOR

When it comes to exercise, many people face the same hurdle.

Time.

It is a resource that is severely limited in today’s hustle-bustle world.

That’s why many companies have challenged their workers to wear pedometers or other devices used to measure distance covered through the work day. More than anything, it can be used as incentive to alert employees to where they stand when it comes to walking.

Many organizations, such as the American Heart Association, have adopted 10,000 steps daily as a target health goal for the average person. Although the length of a person’s stride varies by size, weight, age and other factors, 10,000 steps translates roughly into 5 miles.

Wellness Councils of America estimates most Americans walk an average of 3,000 to 5,000 steps a day, approximately 11⁄2 to 2 1⁄2 miles per day. Obviously, that is far short of the target.

Are 10,000 steps critical?

Natural health expert Dr. Joseph Mercola, the author of two New York Times Bestsellers, writes, “I view (10,000 steps daily) as a basic requirement of optimal health, like drinking adequate amounts of water.”

Coastal Orthopedics We treat you better.

The Pritikin Longevity Center of Miami, on its website pritikin. com, states “The critical point is that the more you’re up and moving, the less your are sitting.

That’s important because too much sitting, science is increasingly finding, is bad news for our health and longevity, even if we are getting regular exercise.”

The American Heart Association states, on heart.org, that walking 10,000 steps a day will improve health and decrease the risk of heart disease, the No. 1 killer of men and women in America. The organization believes that people can cut into those steps significantly if they refuse to be stationary the entire day at work. It suggests taking walks during breaks.

“Changing lifestyles is a big part of controlling diabetes,” said Linh Gordon, the diabetes nurse educator for Sarasota Memorial.

“If they can’t move, they have to make it up.

“We have a secretary here, Stacey Lukkarila, whom I told to move more. She lost 130 pounds just taking more steps, mostly at work. She has two kids and doesn’t have a lot of time. She didn’t join a gym or anything drastic. Her biggest change was just moving, no more taking the elevator, she parked farther away, and she took a 20-minute walk over lunch.”

Gordon said that 10,000 steps

You expect your physician to have incredible knowledge and skill that will quickly get you back to the things you love. At Coastal Orthopedics, our team combines great medicine with great listening, communication and respect. Our focus

SAME DAY SICK APPOINTMENTS

is seeing our patients as happy as they are healthy.

Simply put, we treat patients better.

• 18 Years in the Area • Your Child is ALWAYS seen by the Doctor • State of the Art Office with Well and Sick Waiting and Exam Rooms

Newborns -18 years old New Patients Welcome (941) 758.1285 josephplacheril.com

3 convenient locations throughout Manatee County, including Lakewood Ranch!

Joseph Placheril M.D. Board Certified

Most Insurance Accepted, Not a Medicaid Provider.

I 75

Call us at 941.757.5507 for an appointment or visit coastalorthopedics.com to learn more about your condition.

Dr. Placheril

SR. 70

Norman Liquor

Scrub Club

Rosedale Country Club

196470

Conveniently Located Just East of I-75 8623 54th Drive East, SR 70 Bradenton 194174

2

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

YourObserver.com

HOW MUCH GROUND DO YOU COVER AT WORK? CHERYL CRUSE Waitress at Casa Maya, Lakewood Ranch Her estimate of an average day walking at work: 1.5 miles What she walked: Day One — 1.5 miles Day Two — 4.1 miles MARCIA FROST Real estate agent at Michael Saunders, Lakewood Ranch Her estimate of an average day walking at work: 0.5 miles What she walked: Day One — 1.5 miles Day Two — 3.77 miles COREY MCGIRT Delivery for Main Bar Sandwich Shop, Sarasota His estimate of an average day walking at work: 2.5 miles What he walked: Day One — 1.6 miles Day Two — 1.8 miles CHRISTINA BOWMAN Executive director at Sarasota Military Academy Her estimate of an average day walking at work: 3 miles What she walked: Day 1 — 5.5 miles Day 2 — 5 miles PAUL DEZZI Longboat Key fire chief His estimate of an average day walking at work: 0.5 miles What he walked: Day 1 — 0.75 miles Day 2 — 0.6 miles

a day burns an extra 300 to 500 calories. That can translate to a dropped pound a week.

Wearing a pedometer or a Fitbit to keep track of steps at a work is a good idea according to Gordon, who tracks her own movement during the work day. “Anything that gets people accountable to their movement will help a lot,” she said. “It’s become a trend to have these now. It’s a step in the right direction.”

Some jobs or positions simply provide more opportunity to walk than others. Gordon is stationary much of the day by design while nurses cover the 10,000 steps with ease. A mailman with a walking route will knock off the entire 10,000 steps during the workday while a toll collector will have a lot of walking left to do outside the workplace.

The Observer put pedometers on five workers from different professions for two days each to see how their jobs positioned them in the hunt for 10,000 steps.

Paul Dezzi, who has been the Longboat Key Fire Chief the past five years, is active outside the office, biking and walking on a regular basis, but his position has forced him to be less active at work. “I never really thought about it,” he said of the distance he walks.

He estimated that he walks about a mile a day considering he spends so much time at a desk.

He was close, walking threequarters of a mile one day and just over a half mile the next.

“I had no idea,” he said. “I would have thought I would have gone a little over a mile. Actually, it was an eye opener. I think

it is something people need to consider, taking even lunch time to talk a walk.”

Fortunately for Dezzi, he more than covers his 10,000 steps outside the workplace, but he understood when he became a chief that he would have to pick up his activity outside of work since he was going to be stationary much of the day.

Marcia Frost, a licensed real estate agent with Michael Saunders & Co. in Lakewood Ranch, estimated that she walked about a half mile during her work day, or about 1,000 steps.

She had a pleasant surprise when the first day she covered a mile and a half, about 3,000 steps, before going more than 3.75 miles the next day, or about 7,500 steps.

“Boy was I wrong,” she said of her estimate. “The first day I was mostly in the office, but my desk is on the third floor, which I did so I would have to walk up and down stairs. I had a lot of listing appointments that day.

“The next day was extremely busy. I went to the office first and then went to show a property at Tidewater in which I went up and down a street there. Then I went to a brokers’ open house for a 7,200-square-foot home that was on a huge estate.”

It all added up.

On such days, Frost won’t have to feel bad if she doesn’t have much time to exercise at home.

“It’s good news because I do want to walk more,” she said of the distance she covered. “I am someone who purposely tries to get up and walk quite a bit. But 3.77 miles was very surprising.”

Cheryl Cruse, a waitress at Casa Maya on Lakewood Main Street, is limited because her

|

FEBRUARY 2016

3

workplace territory is defined by the restaurant’s walls. On the first day, on a shift from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., she wore the pedometer and covered 2,760 steps or just less than 11⁄2 miles.

The next day the restaurant was busy and Cruse had a longer shift, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. She walked about 4 miles.

She estimated that she usually walked a mile to 1 1⁄2 miles during the workday, so she was surprised. She was happy to know that she was getting some exercise, especially “to do it in a room that is about 200 square feet,” she said.

“I would have thought I would have gone a little over a mile. Actually, it was an eye opener. I think it is something people need to consider, taking even lunch time to talk a walk.”

— Paul Dezzi, Longboat Key fire chief

SARASOTA SOUTH

4055 Clark Road Expo Center Near Valentinos (941) 927-6200 M-F 8a-10p | S 9a-8p | Su 9a-8p

Venti CF Medium

Venti Light Borgis Pro Regular

MM#34107

59.

196448

Venti CF Bold

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

|

YourObserver.com

FEBRUARY 2016

Healing woes?

Go see the pros

Caring for the Hearts

of Lakewood Ranch

PAM EUBANKS SENIOR EDITOR

East County resident Sherry Crone was standing in her kitchen, unloading the dishwasher when she nicked her ankle on the corner of its open door.

“I was going too fast,” she said.

“I had to wash my house slippers. It was a mess.”

A retired nurse, Crone applied pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding and treated it herself. She continued monitoring it over the next few days, and she quickly realized it was becoming infected.

Crone went to see her primary physician, who referred her to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center’s newly opened Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine, managed by Healogics.

The department, located in Medical Office Building 1, focuses on patients who suffer from chronic wounds, typically considered a wound that does not heal within 30 days. Such wounds can be caused by insect bites, trauma, bedsores or other injuries, like Crone’s.

Crone visited the center six times over three weeks. Health care providers there treated the wound with special techniques and medicine to ensure it healed properly. At each visit, they would measure the width and

A proud Lakewood Ranch resident, Dr. Calderon provides state-of-theart cardiology care with a minimally invasive approach

941- 907 - 1113 6310 Health Park Way Suite 230 Lakewood Ranch, FL

Erick E. Calderon M.D., FACC, FSCAI

LakewoodCardiovascular.com

196756

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Cardiology & Nuclear Cardiology

East County resident Sherry Crone says she hopes more physicians will send patients to the wound center because it helps wounds heal correctly.

So Much More than your

Typical Pharmacy!

We offer a State-of-the-Art compounding lab to prepare customized medications to meet your unique needs.

Advantages:

DAVID LEADBETTER

• Change formulation to gel, cream, lozenge or liquid • Improve or eliminate undesirable flavors and allergic components

The World’s #1 Golf Instructor to Champion Tour Players

Shoemaker is a True Master of His Craft

Dr.

Uses:

• Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement • Dermatology • Dental • Veterinary • Topical Pain Creams • Wound Care

“Dr. Shoemaker is truly at the top of his game.

Thanks to his experience and remarkable skill, I will continue to be at the top of mine.”

Jeffrey Wagner, RPh

Karen McMicken

Jerry Pireaux, RPh

Lakewood Ranch PhaRmacy and COMPOUNDING CENTER We accept most prescription insurance and Medicare D drug coverage plans.

VOT E D

●

CONNOLLY TOP DOCTO R S

Open Monday- Friday 8am-5:30pm

} 941.488.2020

Just across the parking lot from Hospital Emergency Room in Medical Office Building II

6310 Health Parkway, Suite 130 | Bradenton, FL 34202 189854

Founder, Director of Laser Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgery Named a “Top Doctor”

by Castle Connolly Medical, Ltd.

www.CenterForSight.net

Like us!

C A S T LE

David W. Shoemaker, M.D.

196516

4

941-907-1500 | Fax: 941-907-1544

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

YourObserver.com

Photos by Pam Eubanks

Pressurized chambers have clear sides and an open feel so patients do not feel claustrophobic while they receive oxygen treatments.

WHAT IS A CHRONIC WOUND? A chronic wound is a wound that does not respond to normal medical care within 30 days. Some non-healing wounds are associated with complications from diabetes or other vascular-related conditions, such as inadequate blood circulation or poorly functioning veins. Common causes of non-healing wounds are pressure sores, insect bites, immobility and trauma.

Having a partner to workout with can make all the difference in the world. Our special offer will make a great Valentines Having a partner to workoutgift! withAsk canabout makeour all Having a partner to workout with can make all Partner Training programs, available to members the difference the world.

Our Day! special offer A gift in for Valentines Having a partner to workout with can make all the difference in Valentines the world. gift!

OurAsk special offer only. will make a great about our the difference in the world. Our special offer will make a greatprograms, Valentines gift! Asktoabout our Partner Training available members Having aapartner to workout withAsk can about make all will make great Valentines gift! our Partner Training programs, available to members only. the difference the world.

Our special offer Partner Traininginprograms, available to members only. will make a great Valentines gift! Ask about our only.

Partner Training programs, available to members only.

CENTER FOR WOUND HEALING AND HYPERBARIC MEDICINE 8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Suite 280, Lakewood Ranch Phone: 782-2830 Patient hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday Appointments required

Remember to protect yourself and your partner

FEBRUARY SPECIAL Discreet testing for HIV, Chlamydia & Gonorrhea $100 cash

Cost includes testing for all three plus an office visit.*

7 Days a Week 8am - 8pm

4 Convenient Locations Open Daily 8am to 8pm!

BRADENTON

189140

SARASOTA

4647 Manatee Ave. W. • (941) 745-5999 6272 Lake Osprey Dr. • (941) 907-2800

LAKEWOOD RANCH

www.SarasotaUrgentCare.net

5

BETTER BETTER TOGETHER BETTER BETTER A gift for Valentines Day! TOGETHER BETTER ATOGETHER gift for Valentines Day! TOGETHER A gift for Valentines Day! A gift for Valentines Day! TOGETHER

0 0 0 0

LOVE IS IN THE AIR... $

No Appointment Necessary Walk-Ins Welcome Lowest Self Pay Rates Most Insurance & Medicare Accepted Flu & Pneumonia Shots Digital X-Rays, EKG’s & Labs On-Site

FEBRUARY 2016

9908 SR 64 East • (941) 747-8600

SARASOTA WEST BY SMH

1435 S. Tamiami Trail • (941) 554-4301

*Insurance not accepted for this offer

$ $ $ $

Joining Fee Save up to $50 Joining Fee Valentines Special available Joining Fee Feb. 7thup - 14th Save to $50 Joining Fee Save upSpecial to $50 Valentines available Save to $50 Valentines Special available Feb. 7thup - 14th Joining Fee Valentines Special available Feb. 7th - 14th

Membership Save toIncludes: $50 Feb. 7thup - 14th “12 Weeks to a New You”available Program Valentines Special 7thExercise - 14th 100+ Feb. Group Classes Membership Includes: Membership Includes: YouthtoSports Families “12$5 Weeks a Newfor You” Program Membership Includes: “12$5 Weeks to a Newfor You” Program Swim Lessons Families Group Classes “12100+ Weeks to a Exercise New You” Program 100+ Group Exercise Classes FREEMembership Babysitting for families while working out $5 Youth Sports for Families Includes: 100+ Group Exercise Classes

$5Weeks YouthLessons Sports Day Camp discount forFamilies Families $5 for Families “12 a Newfor You” Program $5 Swim YouthtoSports for Families $5 Swim Lessons Program discounts suchfor as Families dance, karateout FREE Babysitting for families working 100+ Group Exercise Classes $5 Swim Lessons forwhile Families FREE Babysitting for families while working out Day discount for Families $5Camp Youth Sports for Families FREE Babysitting for families while working We offer Individual Unique Pricing to joinout Day Camp discount forFamilies Families $5 Swim Lessons for Program discounts such as dance, karate Day Camp discount for Families (membership fee for based on as your gross income Program discounts such dance, karate FREE Babysitting families while working out Program discounts such as dance, karate andWe number of dependents in your household). offer Individual Unique Pricing to join Day Camp discount for Families We offer Individual Unique toincome join Bring your1040 form toPricing sign up! (membership fee based on as your gross Program discounts such dance, karate We offer Individual Unique Pricing to join (membership based on in your gross income and number offee dependents your household). (membership fee based on your gross income and We number dependents into your household). offer of Individual Unique Pricing to join Bring your1040 form sign up! and number of dependents in your household).

Bring your1040 to sign (membership fee basedform on your grossup! income Bring your1040 form to sign up! and number of dependents in your household).

Lakewood Ranch Branch Bring your1040 form to sign up!

Bradenton Branch Parrish Branch Lakewood Ranch Branch 941-798-YMCA (9622) Lakewood Ranch Branch Bradenton Branch Lakewood Ranch Branch www.manateeymca.org Bradenton Branch Parrish Branch Bradenton Branch Parrish Branch 941-798-YMCA (9622) Lakewood Ranch Branch Parrish Branch 941-798-YMCA (9622) www.manateeymca.org

MANATEE YMCA MANATEE YMCA MANATEE MANATEE YMCA YMCA MANATEE YMCA

196472

depth of the wound to make sure it was improving.

“It healed nicely and the way it’s supposed to,” Crone said.

The center also offers hyperbaric medicine, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the medical use of oxygen at a level higher than atmospheric pressure. Such treatments have been proven effective for treating infections of the jaw, ulcers, acute arterial embolisms or conditions resulting from radiation therapies, for example.

Patients can watch television while reclining in a hyperbaric chamber two hours at a time.

Mario Garruto, program director for the Lakewood Ranch’s Wound Center, said a specialized approach to wound care creates better outcomes for patients.

“The key is the physician is a wound care specialist and the nurses and technicians have specialized training,” he said. “It’s a holistic approach to the patient.”

|

6

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

|

YourObserver.com

FEBRUARY 2016

Medical center pumps up heart disease awareness

PRIMARY CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Oscar Espinosa, MD Family Healthcare Physician Minor Office Surgery, Internal Medicine (Habla Español)

Annual Wellness Exams Blood Pressure Care Sugar Control Weight Loss Programs Botox & Juvederm Allergy Testing

Mary J. Mott, MPAS, PA-C

Adult & Family Care Physician Assistant Specializing in Allergy & Asthma

With February designated as heart health month, the center’s cardio team works to educate the public about possible concerns.

Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm, Saturday (by appointment only) 10 am - 2 pm | 941.896.3900 10910 State Road 70 E. Suite 102, Lakewood Ranch Located 1 ½ mile East of I-75 on SR70 - Spring Forest Office Park between River Club Blvd. & LWR Blvd.

Accepting New Patients • No Appointment Necessary • Most Insurance Accepted

192077

JESS SALMOND

Heart disease is America’s No. 1 killer.

During the month of February — National Heart Health Month — the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center is conducting an educational campaign to raise awareness for the widespread killer.

“If you are concerned, you should have screenings,” said Dr. Y. Emmy Satya, cardiologist at the medical center.

While there are many factors that go into heart disease, family medical history is one of the most important. For those with a family history of coronary artery disease, it’s important to start screening decades earlier than a typical person.

Caring for Women Throughout Their Lives Jorge E. Alvarez, MD, FACOG Jennifer R. McCullen, MD, FACOG Edgardo J. Aponte, MD, FACOG M. Joanne Bevers, CNM Jill S. Miller, ARNP

Diplomates of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

WOMEN VS MEN

• Urogynecology - Incontinence • In-Office Procedures: Essure Permanent Birth Control & Endometrial Ablation • On-Site 3D & 4D Ultrasounds • Se habla Español & Portuguese

8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. • Suite 240 • Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Call: (941) 907-3008 • Visit: www.obgynwc.com

194064

We believe that women of our community deserve the finest medical care from adolescence through pregnancy and beyond menopause and that all medical care should start with caring.

• Gynecology & Cosmetic Gynecology • Obstetrics - Pregnancy • Menopause & Hormone Replacement • Hospital Surgery

STAFF WRITER

Coronary artery disease, or CAD, manifests itself differently in men and women. Typically, men begin feeling sharp chest pains with the onset of CAD. For women, Satya said, symptoms are usually much more vague.

While some can also experience chest pain, the beginning symptoms of CAD can also be shown through jaw pain, shortness of breath, fatigue and lightheadedness.

“With women, CAD is more subtle and not as easy to detect,” she said.

The medical center encourages women to schedule screenings if they have any concern, rather than waiting, because the symptoms can be so general.

According to the American Heart Association, about 44 million women in the U.S. are affected by cardiovascular diseases, and one in three women’s deaths are caused by heart disease and stroke— or approximately one woman every

IF YOU GO PHYSICIAN SEMINAR AT THE MALL AT UTC Matters of the Heart: Cardiovascular Disease, Vascular Disease & Atrial Fibrillation Presenter: James Skorczewski, DO, Cardiologist with Heart Rhythm Care This free seminar, led by cardiologist Dr. Jim Skorczewski, will cover the topics of cardiovascular disease, vascular disease and AFib as well as action steps you can take to manage those conditions – including helpful tips to maintain your optimal heart health.

Date: Saturday, Feb. 20 Location: Mall at University Town Center, lower level seating court in front of Macy’s Time: 9 a.m.

Seating is limited to this free event.

80 seconds. The AHA is trying to raise awareness for women’s heart disease with its movement, Go Red for Women.

RISK FACTORS

While some people are more prone to heart diseases than others, there are ways to prevent or at least minimize the risk of getting CAD, Satya said.

“You can’t change your genetics, but some risk factors are modifiable,” she said.

Diabetes, smoking and obesity are three major risk factors.

However, so is a sedentary lifestyle, Satya said.

Keeping a healthy blood pressure lowers risks, and Satya encourages patients to stick to a low sodium, low cholesterol diet and attempt to get in 30 minutes of activity every day.

Cholesterol, involved in the process that layers coronary arteries, is found in processed foods with saturated fats and naturally in red meats, cheeses, heavy gravies and dairy prod-

2016 ADULT WINTER SPECIAL

No insurance? No problem.

Adult patients*: FREE CLEANING with $99 Exam and X-rays Expires 2/29/16

*Adult patient is 18 years and older

Providing state of the art dental & orthodontic services for adults and children!!

Call for your Appointment Today!

941-745-1143 | 941-896-8906 FAX www.meadowsfamilydentistryfl.com 9912 East State Road 64 | Bradenton, FL 34212 Available Monday through Friday!

196473

MeadowsFamilyDentistry

*Valid for adult dental patients only without insurance. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Valid for Adult Prophy Cleaning D1110 (healthy mouth cleaning). In the presence of periodontal disease, further periodontal treatment may be recommended.

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

YourObserver.com

|

FEBRUARY 2016

7

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION’S LIFE’S SIMPLE 7 HEART DISEASE PREVENTION PLAN 1. Manage blood pressure 2. Control cholesterol 3. Reduce blood sugar 4. Get active 5. Eat better 6. Lose weight 7. Stop smoking

ucts. An easy switch from whole milk to skim is a way to reduce cholesterol intake.

“We want people to be reading labels,” Satya said.

The medical center is accredited by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care as a chest pain center and has a range of advanced care services for cardiovascular health. It will be increasing awareness at its facilities with literature and will post information online throughout the month of February.

It will also host a seminar at the Mall at UTC Feb. 20 to cover cardiovascular topics with cardiologist Dr. James Skorczewski.

“We’re focused on prevention, awareness and treatment,” said Lisa Kirkland, spokeswoman for the hospital.

Photo by Pam Eubanks

Lakewood Ranch Medical Center cardiologist Dr. Emmy Satya takes the blood pressure of Longboat resident Michael McLaughlin, after he completes a stress test.

FREE LECTURE Beyond Medication In The Treatment of Chronic Pain Wednesday, February 17 5-6:30pm

Dinner provided

Nomen Azeem, MD

Interventional Pain Management | Sports Medicine

196450

Hawthorne Village of Sarasota 5381 DeSoto Road, Sarasota

RSVP: 941.355.6111

|

YourObserver.com

FEBRUARY 2016

CALENDAR

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

Healing starts here.

Comfort and quality matter most to you, so we make it our top priority. Our individualized therapy programs and home-style environment are designed to make you feel special.

Call us today to schedule a tour.

CLASSES AND SEMINARS FEB. 18

MEETING THE SPIRITUAL, EMOTIONAL NEEDS OF CARE PARTNERS SEMINAR Runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pines of Sarasota, 1501 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. Tickets are $45 per person, or $55 the day of, and include a light breakfast and lunch. How to meet the needs of a loved one with dementia. Call 309-5760.

FEB. 20

MATTERS OF THE HEART SEMINAR Starts at 9 a.m. on the lower level seating court at The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota. This free seminar, led by cardiologist Dr. Jim Skorczewski, will cover the topics of cardiovascular disease. Call 708-8100.

FEB. 24

DEMENTIA SEMINAR Runs from 2 to 3 p.m. at Blake Medical Center, 2010 59th St. W., Suite 3400, Bradenton.

This free seminar will focus on symptoms of dementia, what’s considered normal behavior, how dementia is diagnosed and other topics associated with the disease. Call 792-6611.

FEB. 24

WEIGHT LOSS OPTIONS Runs from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Tower Auditorium at Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 Second St. E., Bradenton. Call 8969507.

04/14/16

MARCH 19

OVERUSE INJURIES OF THE LEG AND FOOT Starts at 9 a.m. on the lower level seating court at The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota. Dr. Jason Collins, of Intercoastal Medical Group, will discuss injuries caused by overuse injuries that affect people who participate in endurance sports. This free seminar will include discussions on diagnosis and treatment options.

Call 708-8100.

EVENTS MARCH 5

LECOM RUN THROUGH THE GROVES 5K Starts at 8 a.m. and the 1-mile walk starts at 8:30 a.m. at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton. Run, walk or jog your way through the groves. The biannual event will recognize a top overall male and female, who will receive a $75 gift card for Fit 2 Run. All participants will receive a completion medal and the top three male and female competitors will receive placement medals. Individuals ages 14 and up are welcome to participate.

Cost is $25. Visit active.com for more information.

MARCH 5

MS WALK 2016 Site opens at 8 a.m. and opening ceremony starts at 9 a.m. on Lakewood Ranch Main Street. Walk benefits the National MS Society programs and research. Route lengths are one or three miles. For more information, call 407-478-8882, Ext. 55128.

04/14/16

Joint Commission accredited

181952

941-360-6411 • LCCA.com 8104 Tuttle Ave. • Sarasota, FL 34243 196452

8

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

YourObserver.com

What’s your

number East County doctor Stelios Rekkas uses Body Mass Index readings to determine whether a person qualifies for weight loss surgery.

AMANDA SEBASTIANO STAFF WRITER

Dr. Stelios Rekkas

Although Dr. Stelios Rekkas knows all his patients by name, patients are also a number to the East County doctor.

That’s because Rekkas, of Manatee Surgical Alliance on State Road 64, specializes in weight loss surgeries.

Whether he performs a gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, lap band or gastric balloon procedures, an early and critical step in evaluating a patient for those weight loss options is to determine their Body Mass Index.

“It’s basically just a way of assigning numbers to patients to determine how heavy someone is,” Rekkas said. “An ideal BMI is lower than 25.”

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a

measurement that determines whether a person is over or underweight based on an 18.5 to 30-plus scale, the Center for Disease Control website states.

A person with a BMI of 18.5 or lower is considered underweight, while 30 or higher is considered obese.

If a patient has a BMI of 30, they must have a medical issue for Rekkas to consider performing surgery on them. Readings of 40 or higher are typically a qualifier for surgery, for those individuals need to lose at least 100 pounds to be in the healthy weight range.

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Can you pinch an

?

|

9

FEBRUARY 2016

“A person with a BMI of 30 or higher will live 12 years less than a person with a normal body mass. Having a low number is just one part of being healthy and living a healthy lifestyle.”

— Dr. Stelios Rekkas FIND YOUR BMI

Are you interested in calculating your Body Mass Index? Visit bmi-calculator.net and input your height and weight.

inch?”

It originated from a tool some doctors use, called a skinfold caliper. The tool is one of the oldest and most commonly used methods to determine a person’s bodyfat percentage.

The tool lightly pinches an area, usually on the right side of the body, to measure skinfold thickness, which is a measure of fat under the skin.

The skin is measured in millimeters and put into software that calculates a person’s bodyfat percentage.

Generally, doctors test seven parts of the body, which include triceps, pectorals, abdomen and quadriceps.

“Some doctors like that method,” Rekkas said. “But the calculations are becoming more popular and common practice.”

BMI is generally calculated by a person’s weight, in kilograms, divided by the square of his or her height, in meters.

There are exceptions, though.

“Someone who has a lot of muscle might have a higher BMI calculation, because muscle weighs more than fat,” Rekkas said. “So, the ‘eyeball test,’ or

looking at someone to determine whether they’re overweight, and the BMI calculation are just one of many steps we take to determine someone’s overall health.”

Family history, diet and exercise routines also are evaluated.

A higher BMI rating of 30 or higher generally leads to other, more serious health issues.

BMI numbers correlate with obesity and the diseases associated with carrying more weight than a body should.

“A person with a BMI of 30 or higher will live 12 years less than a person with a normal body mass,” Rekkas said.

Talking with a doctor about a diet plan and exercising four or five times a week are “tried and true” practices Rekkas believes will help most people.

“When you lower that number, your BMI, you can often cure or better those medical issues you’re having,” Rekkas said.

“Americans are bigger now than they ever have been. Obesity is becoming an epidemic, and people should also try more traditional ways of living a healthy lifestyle rather than jumping right to surgery.”

BY THE NUMBERS From The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention

169 billion dollars in annual medical costs in the United States associated with obesity

72 million Americans who have obese-level BMIs

80

percent higher dependence on prescription drugs in people with high BMIs

26.4

percent of Floridians who are obese

0

states have an obesity rate less than 15% of its population

ADVERTISEMENT

CAN YOU RETRAIN YOUR BRAIN? But did you realize that over time seemingly unrelated issues such as stress, anger, depression, bad habits, and small head injuries take a toll on our brains just like our bodies? In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 90% of all diseases have a mental or emotional component.

To find out more or for a complimentary private consultation, call us today at

941.552.4500 1440 Main Street | Sarasota, FL

www.BrainwaveSarasota.com

Your brain regulates everything you do and think. So, when overburdened or injured, symptoms manifest throughout the body, sometimes in surprising ways.

Certainly, when we take a blow to the head we understand we might get a headache or dizzy. Or, with mild concussion, experience a lack of awareness of our surrounding, memory loss, or nausea.

When your brain is not working optimally, it’s reflected in the health of your body. Here is a list of symptoms that may reveal a brain that is not functioning in an optimal manner: • Inability to focus • An unquiet mind • Decreased attention span • Anxiety • Depression • Irritability and low frustration tolerance due to stress • Poor sleep • Often feeling tired or overwhelmed • Feeling overwhelmed by daily schedules Much like the muscles in your body, your brain can be strengthened by directed exercise. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive technology that translates the brain’s electrical energy into useful information that it recognizes. As the brain interacts with this information it practices the art of self-regulation.

196461

We all understand and can relate to everyday bumps, bruises and repetitive tasks that take a toll on our bodies.

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

|

YourObserver.com

FEBRUARY 2016

Turn Your Passion Into Your Profession

Healthy goal nets grand effort

Start Your New Career In As Little As 9 Months!

PAM EUBANKS

Meridian College can help you find the career YOU have been looking for!

SENIOR EDITOR

We offer Diploma and/or Associate Degrees in the following programs: • COSMETOLOGY • DENTAL ASSISTANT • MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION • MEDICAL ASSISTANT • MEDICAL INSURANCE BILLING AND CODING • DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL ULTRASOUND

Financial aid is available to those who qualify, and we offer placement assistance to graduates. Stop waiting! Make this your year and call us today at 941.377.4880 or visit us online at 196482

www.Meridian.edu

Meridian College 7020 Professional Pkwy E • Sarasota, FL 34240 Meridian College is Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges

Rebekah Boos works hard just to be an “average” runner, an effort she knows will benefit her overall health.

But heading into December 2015, she was not on pace to run her goal of 1,000 miles for the year.

She had to account for 141 miles in her December workouts.

“I was way behind,” the 42-year-old said. “This was a really lofty goal. I wasn’t sure I could do it.”

She had trained for marathons in years past, helping her easily reach her previous mileage goals.

In 2014, she reached the 1,000mile mark for the year, her first time.

Then last year, she was behind her goal going into the final month. How could she reach her goal without causing injury?

A local Realtor, Boos solicited the help of her friends in the Lakewood Ranch Running Club.

She announced her problem on the group’s Facebook page, and asked for encouragement. It came almost instantly.

Soon, Boos was up and running at 4:50 a.m. with the Tuesday/Thursday group that starts at the Summerfield Community Park pavilion. Then she would double back to join her usual 5:30 a.m. group for another run.

“It was exciting to have another partner at the 4:50 a.m. run and to know she was so close to her goal,” friend and fellow running club member Kelly Lassiter said. “I knew she could achieve it. We hold each other accountable.”

Boos heeded the advice of more experienced runners to take the extra miles slowly. She knew, at the wrong pace, adding the extra 12 to 14 miles per week was a recipe for injury.

She also made other changes, incorporating yoga into her routine twice weekly to make sure her muscles stayed loose. She went to bed at 9 p.m., about an hour earlier than normal, drank more water and also increased her consumption of fruits and vegetables, because of their antiinflammatory properties.

She completed her goal injury free, earning her 1,000-mile award during the running club’s annual awards dinner Jan. 10.

Boos is back in stride for her 2016 goal. Because she felt so good in her new routine, she is sticking with it.

“During the month of December, I honestly fell in love with running all over again,” she said.

“I run because it is truly one of the most difficult disciplines for me and I work so hard at it.

“Maybe, just maybe, I’ll be able to log 1,500 miles this year.”

Only Our Name Has Changed

Manatee Sarasota Eye Clinic is now

Dr. Julie King

Dr. Jennifer Swanson

Formerly Manatee Sarasota Eye Clinic Specializing In:

• Laser Cataract Surgery • Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery • Advanced Lens Implants • Glaucoma Care • Macular Degeneration • LASIK Surgery • Pediatric Eye Care • Neuro-Ophthalmology • Dry Eye Treatment

Featuring the same outstanding ophthalmologists, providing specialized care for your eyes.

Murray Friedberg, M.D. Robert Edelman, M.D. Scott Silverman, M.D. Eric Berman, M.D. Robert Sambursky, M.D. Pooja Khator, M.D. Allison Menezes, M.D. Jeffrey Davis, M.D. Anita Shane, M.D. 1427 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota 6310 Health Park Way, Ste. 340 Lakewood Ranch 217 Manatee Avenue East Bradenton

•

8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd Suite 140 Next To Lakewood Ranch Medical Center

176455

941-907-9298 / www.LWROBGYN.com

CoastalEye.com • 941-748-1818 Most Insurance Plans Welcomed

179406

10

YourObserver.com

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

|

FEBRUARY 2016

11

FITNESS ROUTINE Rebekah Boos’ typical workout week includes: Three weekly runs of six to eight miles Tuesdays/ Thursdays and nine to 14 miles Saturdays; twice-weekly yoga; and twice-weekly workouts at Orange Theory Fitness.

LACE UP The Lakewood Ranch Running Club will host the Doggies for Duchenne 5K on Feb. 27. The event starts at 7 a.m. at 5261 Paylor Lane, Sarasota. Join the Lakewood Ranch Running Club as it hosts this inaugural 5K chip-timed race benefitting the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch and Another Day for Gray, a nonprofit raising funds to fight Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy.

Participants can bring their dogs, but must keep them on a tight leash. For race information or registration, visit Facebook.com/doggies4duchenne.

Pam Eubanks

Rebekah Boos, front, runs with Kelly Lassiter. Boos started running seven years ago through a program at Fit to Run. She completed 1,000 miles for the first time in 2014 and was eager to repeat her success in 2015.

From the moment we say hello, we learn everything we can about our resident’s life story.

We ask about past professions, favorite hobbies, travels and family history. At Inspired Living communities, a resident’s needs, choices and preferences are not only respected – they are honored and celebrated. And you can be reassured that assisted living and memory care are available, all within an engaging, homelike environment.

• Maintenance-free lifestyle with superior amenities and services • Personalized care with licensed nursing available 24/7 • Programming, cultural events and enriching activities • Nutritious, chef-prepared meals with flexible dining hours • Off-site outings and scheduled local transportation LWR_HID_SAR_ECO Health Matters_020416.indd 1

(941) 254-3630

InspiredLivingHiddenLakes.com

1200 54th Ave W | Bradenton, FL | 34207 Assisted Living Facility Lic. #12337

(941) 877-5440

InspiredLivingSarasota.com

1900 Phillippi Shores Dr | Sarasota, FL | 34231 Assisted Living Facility Lic. #12463

independent living • assisted living • memory care

(941) 251-0113

InspiredLivingLakewoodRanch.com 5424 Lena Rd | Bradenton | 34211 Assisted Living Facility Lic. #12727 Facebook “f ” Logo

Connect with us on

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

189857

we take care of moms and dads

assisted living • memory care

2/3/16 4:22 PM

EAST COUNTY HEALTH MATTERS

|

YourObserver.com

FEBRUARY 2016

A lifetime of heart health STARTS HERE.

Did you know that approximately one woman loses her life to heart disease every minute? Heart disease is the number one killer of women and men in the U.S.* Many people still believe that women’s and men’s heart attack symptoms are the same, but a woman’s symptoms can be different – and more difficult to diagnose.

Don’t let a heart attack sneak up on you For a woman, the signs of a possible heart attack can be subtle. In fact, you might not even notice a “silent heart attack,” which is caused by plaque blockages in the coronary arteries. Symptoms can include indigestion, prolonged, excessive fatigue and discomfort in the jaw, upper back or arms.

Lakewood Ranch Medical Center has received Full Accreditation with PCI from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (SCPC). As an accredited chest pain center, Lakewood Ranch is designated as a hospital where patients receive rapid treatment to minimize damage to the heart muscle, re-establishing blood flow.

Advanced heart care, around the corner At Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, our hospital provides a comprehensive range of cardiac services to women and men in our region – including such diagnostic services as heart catheterization, echocardiography, metabolic stress testing, peripheral angiography and EKG.

8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard Bradenton, FL 34202

www.lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com

For more information about cardiac services at LWRMC, please call

941.782.2273.

* Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

160496 2/16

195794

12