obesity - NEA Health - A Northeast Arkansas Community Service

Transcription

PROVIDING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS AND THE SURROUNDING AREA WITH HEALTHFUL INFORMATION
ISSUE 3 • Spring 2006
Children
&
obesity
AND
Melissa Yawn, M.D.
Wellness?
Cataract Surgery Myths
Falls In Older People
Living with Osteoarthritis
Children In Sports
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sleep Apnea
Restless Leg Syndrome
Other articles include: Treating The Whole Person, NEA Clinic P.R.O.M.I.S.E., It Pays To Be Healthy,
What Is Hospital Medicine - What Is A Hospitalist?, Healthy Eating, When Should You Have An Eye Exam?
CONTENTS
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
15
16
18
20
24
27
28
30
32
34
36
37
38
40
Wellness
Treating The Whole Person
NEA Clinic P.R.O.M.I.S.E
10 Most Common Myths
About Cataract Surgery
Falls In Older People
Living With Osteoarthritis
When Should You Get An
Eye Exam?
It Pays To Be Healthy
Join The Battle
Children And Obesity
Children In Sports:
Frequently Asked Questions
NEA Answers Katrina’s Call
Stroke
What Is Hospital Medicine,
What Is A Hospitalist?
Misconceptions About
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Allergies?
A New Solution For Spinal
Fractures Caused by
Osteoporosis
Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Healthy Eating
Reflections of Hope
PUBLICATION OFFICE
1835 Grant Ave.
Jonesboro, AR 72401
[email protected]
www.neaclinic.com
On
The
Cover
Melissa Yawn, M.D. joined NEA Clinic in August 2005. A native of
Marion, AR, Dr. Yawn studied microbiology at the University of
Arkansas where she graduated cum laude. She then went on to the
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and graduated in 2002
with a medical degree. Following this, Dr. Yawn went to the University
of Tennessee at St. Francis in Memphis to complete a family medicine
residency. While in residency, she was a resident member of the board
of directors for the Tennessee Academy of Family Physicians.
Currently, Dr. Yawn is a family practice doctor at NEA Clinic’s Hilltop
Clinic in Jonesboro. She also serves as medical advisor of the NEA
Clinic Charitable Foundation’s Center for Healthy Children, a
newly opened facility that aims to slow down the growth of childhood
obesity in our region. Dr. Yawn also sits on the board of advisors for
NEA Clinic Wellness Center.
Dr. Yawn is married to Jim, her high school sweetheart. The Yawns live
in Jonesboro with their daughters, Emily, 4, and Allyson, 1.
Holly Acebo, Executive Director
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation
Kim Provost, Advertising
Nicole Frakes, Graphic Design
Karin Hill, Assistant Editor
NEA Health is published bi-annually for the purpose of
conveying health-related information for the well-being of
residents of Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri.
The information contained in NEA Health is not intended
for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Please consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment and/or adopting any exercise program or
dietary guidelines.
Editorial, advertising and general business information
can be obtained by phoning 870-934-5101 or by writing
in care of this publication to: PO Box 1960, Jonesboro,
Arkansas 72403. You may also e-mail [email protected] and put “NEA Health” in the subject line.
Copyright© 2006 NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation. All
rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording and
any information storage retrieval system, without written
permission from NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation.
Our mission at NEA Clinic Charitable
Foundation Center for Healthy Children
is to teach, motivate and guide children and
their families to build a solid foundation of
proper nutrition and regular exercise for a
healthy lifestyle.
Helping Children Reach
Healthy Goals
We have certified trainers and a registered
nutritionist on staff. NEACCF’s Center
For Healthy Children programs are provided to our community free of charge.
Six-month sessions begin in January and
July. Go online and fill out your child’s
application today.
Laura Taylor, Manager – 870.336.1760
2617 Phillips Dr., Jonesboro, AR
www.neacfoundation.org
1. NEA HEALTH • SPRING 2006
Wellness?
W
e all deserve good health and wellness in our
lives. Wellness, however, has become a “buzz
word” that can sometimes be confusing. This
article will hopefully bring some clarity to this topic.
If you're like me, you’ve searched the internet using Google
and typed in the word “wellness.” What comes back is a
mixture of ideas and points of view as to what “wellness”
really means.
Most Web sites describe the concept of wellness as one of
the following:
1.
Coping with serious illness or stress through
emotional support groups
2.
Managing employees and their healthcare costs
through “worksite wellness” programs
3.
Achieving improved “wellness” through exercise
4.
Achieving “wellness” through dietary means
5.
Achieving longer life through disease prevention or
aging prevention strategies such as: supplements,
hormones, risk factor management
So what is wellness? Is
it maintaining a steady
exercise program? Taking
a nutritional supplement?
Performing a stress relaxation
routine? Losing weight?
Controlling your blood sugar
or cholesterol?
One university describes “wellness” as a multidimensional or
holistic approach to living. It encompasses the emotional,
physical, spiritual, occupational and social aspects of living. It
involves the “whole person,” acknowledging that one aspect
of a person’s life affects all other aspects.
I like this definition because it recognizes that wellness is not
merely the absence of illness. It encompasses the idea that
wellness is a state of health – where all aspects of life are
interrelated, functioning as an integrated unit. In more
mundane terms, it is like an engine that needs to be finely
tuned and firing on all cylinders to maximize its performance.
So how do you achieve this state of wellness, this “firing on
all cylinders”? This requires you
to follow a number of steps.
5.
The fifth step is initiating a
1.
new program of behaviors. The key is
to not try and overhaul your behaviors
he first step
overnight. You need to make changes in
is accepting that you are
manageable increments. For example, when
responsible
for
the
starting an exercise
decisions that you make and
program, you may
that such decisions impact your
begin with walking
So how do you achieve this
lifestyle. To achieve “wellness”
rather than running
state of wellness, this
means that you have to make the right choices, on a
or doing one to two
“firing on all cylinders”?
daily basis. No one can make them for you.
laps around the
track rather than one
or two miles. Achieving success early in the game is critical
he second step is to identify those aspects of your
to you reaching your target goals.
life that require the greatest amount of attention. This can be
done through consultation with your doctor or through the
use of health risk appraisals (HRAs). HRAs are
astly, stay the course. Creating new habits to
questionnaires that collect information about your daily
improve your life takes time. We all make New Year’s
habits, diet, health history, family history and risk-taking
resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking and get fit. Just
behaviors. They are used to estimate your biologic age vs.
remember that it takes at least three months to change
chronologic age and the risk of dying from major causes
behaviors and create new habits. Therefore, you are going to
(stroke, cancer, heart disease, etc.) in the years to come.
need patience. Making the right choice is a day-by-day,
moment-by-moment process – one that is meant to last a
lifetime. The good news is that it gets easier, the more you
he third step is learning what the right choices
practice making good choices.
are for you to optimize your lifestyle. This requires gathering
information from a variety of sources. These sources may
The NEA Clinic Wellness Center has been created to help
include: Internet Web sites, books, magazines, community
you attain the “wellness” you deserve. It will help you assess
groups, healthcare providers and other consultants. This task
your needs and develop a plan to meet your personal goals.
can be daunting due to information overload. Therefore,
We want you to be the most productive person you
working with experts to filter through this deluge of data will
can be ... to achieve your maximum potential as a human
help you in deciding what choices to make.
being. Visit NEA Clinic
Wellness Center at 2617
Phillips Drive in Jonesboro. The
he fourth step to achieving wellness is to make a
staff is focused on coaching you
commitment to better yourself with intelligent decisions you
to achieve success in all areas of
make each day. This may lead you to associate with others
your life. I hope to see all of you
who are making the same choices, so as to reinforce them.
there.
For example, joining a fitness center or a weekly walking
group may be helpful. Attending stress management or
smoking cessation classes may be needed. If you use alcohol
to excess or illicit drugs, joining Alcoholics or Narcotics
Anonymous may be the right thing to do. This commitment
Richard A. Covert M.D., M.P.H.
may be the hardest part of the journey toward a better you,
Occupational Medicine
but it is also the most important.
NEA Clinic - 870.910.6040
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: wellness
T
2.
T
6.
L
3.
T
4.
T
!
l
l
e
W
Be
Whole Person
Treating The
An oncologist says it simply…
“... just doing chemotherapy is not taking care of a
32-year-old wife and mother with two children.”
W
hat does HopeCircle’s supportive care program have to
do with “integral medicine” and treating the whole
person? Supportive care is no longer thought of as
an “added value,” but is now a standard of practice
addressing the experiences of the whole person. The
National Institutes of Health has a dedicated arm
for the purpose of researching complementary
and alternative medicine called CAM.
Research is being done on the benefits of
prayer, expressive therapy, imagery,
acupuncture and nutrition, just to
name a few. This research also
ensures
that
people
are
knowledgeable
about
any
alternative therapies that might
be harmful.
Providing
comprehensive
state-of-the-art care means
providing supportive care that
is an integral part of the
treatment plan. There has
been a slow progressive
movement through alternative
medicine,
complementary
medicine, integrative medicine,
and finally integral medicine.
This evolution of language defines
a new paradigm in providing care.
Integral medicine means that
addressing the needs of the whole
person assigns equal importance to mind,
body, heart and spirit. It also defines an
active partnership between the healthcare team
and the patient/family.
This new model of
providing care recognizes that along with addressing
the disease process with the best that medicine offers,
addressing the experience of the illness is essential. Believing
that there is an undeniable connection between mind, body, heart
and spirit, this affirms the belief that what is good for one part is
good for the whole in the pursuit of wellness. State-of-the-art
medicine will continually change, while state of the heart
never changes.
HopeCircle Resource Center
Lending Library
When considering any type of therapy, be sure to discuss it
with your physician. An excellent Web site dedicated to
identifying therapies that might have no benefit or even
cause harm is www.quackwatch.com.
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation’s HopeCircle provides
many programs and services that create opportunities for
people to partner with their healthcare team in being a
proactive partner in their wellness plan. People no longer
want to be passive participants in their own well-being.
What each person brings to the experience of illness is
critical to hope and healing. The choices each individual
makes about how to live are powerful antidotes to illness.
Computer Access
Supportive Counseling
Family Support
Educational Programs & Resources
Spirituality & Illness Support Group
Community Events & Educational Programs
Crisis Intervention
Support Groups
Hospital Visitation
“HopeCircle Volunteers”
“Youth Volunteers”
We invite you to participate in any of the HopeCircle programs
and services. HopeCircle is a program of NEA Clinic Charitable
Foundation and is offered free of charge to all Northeast Arkansas
Communities. For more information call 934-5214.
All provided free of charge!
Brenda Wiseman, R.N.,C.
NEACCF HopeCircle Director – 870.934.5214
870.934.5214
“Life’s Tapestry”
“I’m Still A Parent”
- Gas & Liquid
Call us the next time you need home care
equipment and services. Our caring staff
is happy to serve you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
P.R.O.M.I.S.E.
A
E. Scot Davis,
Chief Operations Officer
t NEA Clinic we make a P.R.O.M.I.S.E. every day to our patients. When
you come into an NEA Clinic facility, you will see our P.R.O.M.I.S.E. scroll
at the front desk or on the wall in the lobby. Our P.R.O.M.I.S.E. is our commitment to each and every patient to deliver our mission of comprehensive, personalized and quality healthcare. The individual letters in our P.R.O.M.I.S.E. represent a specific aspect of delivering the best care to you.
P
is for Prompt Service. We pride ourselves on taking care of you
promptly. That means we greet you with a smile and understand
that your time is valuable too. We want to make your visit as timely
as we can. In meeting this purpose, NEA Clinic was the first to offer
outpatient urgent care services in Northeast Arkansas as well as building the
first freestanding outpatient-imaging center in the area to offer our patients
prompt service.
W
e believe in listening to
our patients so much that
we have a full-time staff person
dedicated to patient issues.
Danielle Pittman, NEA Clinic
Patient Advocate, has over
is for Respect and Dignity. At NEA Clinic we know that you deserve
respect. You are the reason we are here. We understand that whatever the
five years of experience in
reason you are at NEA Clinic your dignity also comes first.
working with our patients to
assist with their needs. The goal
is for Our Compassion. Providing quality healthcare means that we
of the Patient Advocate Program
care about you and your needs. The physicians nurses, staff in the lab
is to provide our patients a
and x-ray rooms and others that provide direct services to you all
dedicated support person that they
work at NEA Clinic because they have compassion and truly want to take
can
direct
their
concerns,
care of you.
complaints, or compliments to at
any
time. The Patient Advocate is
is for Maintaining Confidentiality. We know that your health
here
to
help you in the correction of
information is private. We take all measures to ensure that
those
issues,
so that NEA Clinic can
your information is shared only with those that have the right
continue to learn as a healthcare
to see it. We comply with all federal regulations regarding HIPAA and
will continue to use the latest technology such as our system-wide
provider and better fulfill our patients’
Electronic Medical Records to ensure your protection.
needs.
R
O
M
I
S
is for Individualized Attention. You are special. So is each person
that seeks care at NEA Clinic. You are neither a number nor a
statistic. All of our staff is highly committed to making sure you
are treated with individual care.
is for Safe and Clean Environment. Our staff takes pride in
offering the cleanest and safest clinics to take care of you. Our
housekeeping staff has checklists that are routinely monitored to
ensure that our clinics are models of cleanliness. Our medical staff is
trained on safety issues and we have continuous inspections of our labs
to ensure quality outcomes.
E
is for Exceptional Care. At NEA Clinic you will receive far more
than adequate care or good care – at NEA Clinic we work hard
to ensure that you will receive Exceptional Care. Our
commitment is to have you walk away from any of our clinics
knowing that you received the absolute best service possible. We
are committed to providing that level of care through staff
members that will greet you with a smile, nurses that will listen to
you, and doctors that will deliver the highest level of patient care.
Whether you have a positive
experience with one of our nurses,
lab staff or customer service
representatives or have had a problem
with any part of your visit, we
encourage you to call us and voice
your comments. At NEA Clinic, we
have developed an internal electronic
monitoring system of processing
every patient issue. The patient
advocate, the clinic manager, myself
and even the CEO of NEA Clinic,
Jim Boswell, investigates every call.
If we have not kept our
P.R.O.M.I.S.E. to you, then let us
know and one of us will call you to
listen to you and put steps in place to
ensure that we improve our delivery of
care. All communications are
treated confidentially unless you
indicate otherwise. You can reach
Danielle at (870) 934-5124 or by
email at [email protected].
As the leading physician
medical
practice
in
Northeast Arkansas we
continually
strive
to
Assist you in making
improve our service to
appointments with the
We have other ways for you to let us
you. Our mission and
appropriate
physician
to
know how we are keeping our
purpose is the same…to
meet your medical needs.
P.R.O.M.I.S.E. to you. At each of
provide comprehensive,
our clinic sites we encourage our
personalized and quality
Help you direct concerns,
complaints, or issues to the
patients to fill out a comment card.
care to our patients. For
correct
management
team
Each suggestion or comment is
over 29 years we have
member.
treated as a gift. All of the comment
brought the best physicians
cards are collected and reviewed by
to the Jonesboro area,
Provide you with an
the Patient Advocate. We also enjoy
while
providing
the
explanation of health care
policies, procedures and services.
hearing about the many great
cleanest, safest and most
experiences that our patients have at
convenient locations to
Explain our medical billing process, assisting
our clinic through our continuous
take care of you. And for
you with any billing issues.
patient satisfaction surveys. Each of
many more years to come,
our clinics performs bi-annual
we will continue to keep
patient satisfaction surveys and the results are shared with
our P.R.O.M.I.S.E. to each and every patient that walks
the clinic managers and the physicians at the clinic. We
through our doors. It is our privilege and honor to continue
strive to maintain high patient satisfaction scores and
this mission to you and your family.
routinely match our scores with some of the most
NEA Clinic Doc+Finder (870) 935-NEAC
prestigious medical practices in the country.
www.neaclinic.com
What can the Patient Advocate
do for YOU?
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Using the latest in life saving equipment we
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We also provide “Medically Necessary” nonemergency transports. Whether it is from home to
hospital, hospital to hospital, or to other healthcare
facilities, choose Medic One Ambulance Service.
870-972-0708
Jonesboro, AR
(3 Locations)
870-763-5611
Blytheville, AR
870-561-1111
Manila, AR
870-563-2494
Osceola, AR
573-888-3111
Kennett, MO
870-892-5977
Pocahontas, AR
573-276-5111
Malden, MO
573-738-2411
Senath, MO
10 M o s t C o m m o n M y t h s
ABOUT
C ATARACT S URGERY
Cataract surgery is a very common operation performed in the United States and
around the world. In the U.S. alone over one million cataract surgeries were
performed last year. Despite cataracts being so very common, there are many
myths associated with them.
Here are the 10 most common myths and the real answers.
are a clouding on the
M Y T H Cataracts
surface of the eye.
In fact, cataracts are a clouding of the lens inside the eye. The
eye’s natural lens sits just behind the iris or colored part of the
eye. It is difficult to see the lens without dilation of the pupil.
As we get older the natural lens becomes yellow and cloudy
from damage caused by age, sunlight, smoking, steroids,
diabetes or other causes. This misconception is widespread and
is often described as a film over the eye. The film is a blurring
or clouding of the vision caused by the cataract inside the eye.
Cataracts can be
M Y T H removed with lasers.
There is no marketable or feasible laser system for removal of
cataracts. Cataracts must be removed through a surgical
incision in the eye. They are broken into small pieces with
high-frequency ultrasound and then removed with irrigation
and suction. This is done through a micro-incision less than 3
millimeters in size. There is a cloudy membrane that may
develop after cataract surgery which can be removed with a
laser, which is probably the source of the confusion. Other
lasers are used to treat eye conditions including Lasik,
Diabetes, Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma.
Cataracts can be
M Y T H removed with eye drops.
There is no FDA approved or scientifically proven drop that
removes cataracts. While drops are sometimes used to numb
the eye before surgery, this is often confused with the removal
itself. Drops have been used for about 15 years to numb the
eye for surgery. It is often promoted as a marketing tool. The
eye can also be numbed by a shot. Either way an incision
must be made to remove the cataract and replace the lens with
a new implant.
n.: a fiction or halfM Y Ttruth,
H (mith)
especially one that forms
part of an ideology.
is no more need for glasses
M Y T H There
after cataract surgery.
The implant lenses we typically use to replace the natural lens
or cataract will only focus for distance or near vision but not
both. This is usually calculated for distance vision. Most
people require glasses to sharpen the vision after surgery and
for reading vision. Recently the FDA approved the use of an
implant lens that will allow 80 percent of people to see both
distance and near without ever using glasses again. The catch
is that this lens costs more and is considered a “cosmetic
surgery,” so there is some out-of-pocket expense.
It takes weeks to recover from
M Y T H cataract surgery.
In most cases patients see well enough after a few days to
return to normal activities after cataract surgery. Additional
vision improvement may continue over a few weeks to months.
In the past, stitches and large incisions were used but most
surgeons today use small incisions and no stitches. In cases of
other eye diseases like glaucoma it may take a little longer for
vision to recover.
M Y T H Cataracts can “grow back.”
Once a cataract is removed it is gone for good. The lens
implants are made of acrylic, silicone and other plastics that
last a lifetime. Very rarely do they need to be replaced. The
natural lens or cataract cannot “grow back.” In about 30-40
percent of patients a cloudy membrane will form behind the
implant. This comes from the lens capsule that is left in place
to hold the implant. This may cause glare or blurred vision
similar to the original cataract. An opening in this capsule can
be created with a YAG laser. This is a quick, painless
procedure commonly done in the office.
A cataract must be “ripe” before
M Y T H it can be removed.
This is a common misconception. With modern cataract
surgery techniques a lens can be removed without
“ripening.” Once a cataract limits a patient’s vision, limiting
their lifestyle, then it can be removed and replaced. Whether
it is reading a book, watching TV, or cooking, if your vision
is limiting your activity then you should have your cataract
removed.
MYTH
Only old people develop
cataracts.
While cataracts are common among older individuals, there
are forms that develop in young adults and in children.
Anyone who has a family history of early cataracts should
get an eye exam. Cataracts also form earlier in anyone on
long-term steroids or with a history of diabetes or trauma to
the eye.
M Y T H The eye can be transplanted.
The eye is connected to the brain by the optic nerve, which
cannot be repaired if cut or injured. We also do not remove
the eye to operate on it and replace it when finished. There
are two parts of an eye that can be replaced. One is the
natural lens, which can be replaced with an intraocular lens
or implant for cataracts. The other is the cornea, which is the
clear front covering of an eye. A corneal transplant can be
done from a donor to replace a damaged or scarred cornea.
M Y T H Cataract surgery is dangerous.
Cataract surgery is associated with relatively few
complications. A patient’s ophthalmologist should discuss the
most common risks before surgery. Statistically, cataract
surgery is among the safest and most successful surgeries
performed in the world today. Vision is very important and we
strive to limit risk involved in cataract surgery. There is no
surgery that is completely risk free.
There are many other myths out there about cataracts. Some
of them include, “cataracts are contagious,” or “cataracts are
made worse by reading or watching TV.” Like the myths
above, these are simply not true. If
you are having vision problems or
think you might be at risk for
cataracts or other eye diseases, you
should schedule an appointment with
NEA Clinic Ophthalmology.
Matthew Margolis, D.O.
Ophthalmology
NEA Clinic - 870.932.0485
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: cataract
Have you considered LASIK?
We provide all of these services & more
LASIK
No Stitch, No Shot, No Patch
Cataract Surgery
Lase r Eye Surgery
Make your appointment
with our
LASIK Coordinator
TODAY!
Pediatric & Strabismus Surgery
Designer & Safety Eyewear
See Clearly with...
Medicare & Medicaid Accepted
Contact Lenses
Diabetic Eye Disease
Macular Degeration
No Line Bifocals
Glaucoma
OPHTHALMOLOGY
(870) 932-0485
www.neaclinic.com
Formerly Jonesboro Eye Clinic
in
Older
People
Falls
ne of the fond memories I have of quail hunting with my
grandfather is joking about him falling. While walking
down a fence row, watching our Brittany spaniel hunt, I
would suddenly hear a thud and look to see my granddad
sprawled out on the ground. As I helped him up we would both
have a good laugh. Fortunately, he never had a serious injury
resulting from a fall, but too often other seniors are not so lucky.
O
In my office practice, I frequently ask older patients about
falling. This usually results in a humorous story about tripping
over the cat or missing a step. Many times I will say to them,
“You are only one fall away from the nursing home,” or, “The
biggest threat to your independence is falling.” These two
statements are actually serious and not really meant to be funny.
On the average, a person over the age of 65 will fall about three
times a year. Accidents are the fifth leading cause of death in this
country, and three-fourths of fatal accidents in the elderly are
related to falls. Although falls aren’t totally preventable, certain
measures can be taken to reduce falls and minimize risk of injury.
As we age, certain things happen that predispose us to falling.
Our muscles get weaker and we lose the ability to quickly
accommodate to a sudden change in position or in the surface on
which we are walking. Gait and stride change due to joint pain
and stiffness. There is a decrease in vision and hearing, which
impairs our ability to keep oriented in space,
resulting in poor balance. Most importantly,
many medications may increase the risk of falling.
Many good medications
can contribute to falls.
When falling is a problem, the first thing to do is
review your medications.
Many good
medications can contribute to falls. There is a long list of these meds of which your doctor and
pharmacist are well aware. Sometimes choices have to be made between a nerve pill and risk of falling.
You just have to work that out with your doctor, but do try to consider lower risk medications, even if it
means stopping that Darvocet that you have taken for years. If medications are not the problem, then it’s
usually muscle weakness. This can improve with an appropriate exercise or physical therapy program.
Be sure to eliminate any obstacles in the home that may cause a fall.
If you fall and can’t remember why or think that you may have passed out, then see your doctor to discuss
this fall as soon as possible. If you are falling often or have a constant fear of falling,
see your doctor to specifically discuss falling. Don’t just add it to the list of many
other complaints; make it the main priority for the visit.
The bottom line is that falling is a big deal to older people. There are things that you
can do to help prevent falling and limit injuries due to falls. Remember, you truly may
be just one fall away from the nursing home.
Doug Maglothin, M.D.
Family Practice – Windover Clinic
NEA Clinic – 870.935.5432
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: fall
Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces,
I would still plant my apple tree.
Martin Luther
Thank You, Northeast Arkansas for your outstanding community support!
YOU make these programs
possible with supporting
community fundraising
events such as
Duck Classic
A FREE after-school program for children who
struggle with weight problems.
Laura Taylor, Manager
870.336.1760
Woman to Woman Luncheon
Dare To Ride Biker Classic
Ar t Slam
Provides a community of hope, support and
Fall Ball
families living with a catastrophic illness.
educational programs FREE of charge for
Brenda Wiseman, Director
June Morse, Volunteer Coordinator
870.934.5214
Phantom Affair
Trash to Treasure
For more information about these
events or volunteering call today!
In 2005, we assisted in filling over 25,000 FREE
prescriptions, over 9 million dollars in free
medicine to those who couldn’t afford it.
1835 Grant Ave.
Jonesboro, AR
870.934.5101
Kim Provost, Director
870.934.5400
“Living with Osteoarthritis”
O
steoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis,
affecting roughly 21 million Americans and
accounting for more disability among the elderly than
any other disease. It is a slowly-progressive disease that
impacts weight-bearing joints, including the low back, hips,
knees, and base of the thumbs. The disease attacks the joints,
wearing down the cartilage and causing bones to come into
contact, ligaments to stretch, and bone spurs to form.
treatments for osteoarthritis. Canes, if used properly, can also
aid in treatment. Remember, a cane should be held in the hand
opposite to the side with the diseased joint. Finally, although
used, the efficacy of acupuncture has not been well-studied,
and consequently, it is not considered to be an effective means
of treating this disease.
Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis-related pain
frequently intensifies with activity and subsides with rest.
Additionally, the disease can cause stiffness that lasts for less
than one hour, mild swelling, bony knobs or “nodes” on
fingers, and crepitus (a grinding sound associated
with movement).
Pharmacologic treatments include topical agents, such as
capsaicin cream, mineral ice, or pharmacy-prepared
preparations like Ketoprofen/Lidocaine gels. Pain relievers,
such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), are usually the first line
treatment for osteoarthritis pain. Stronger prescription agents,
like Darvocet, are often used when Tylenol is an ineffective
treatment for the patient and he is not a candidate for more
traditional arthritis medications.
Although osteoarthritis can strike anyone at any age, it is most
commonly found in the elderly. Indeed, over 70 percent of
those over the age of 70 years have some form of osteoarthritis.
However, weight and injuries related to work and sports
coupled with family history contribute to the risk of developing
osteoarthritis.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the most
commonly used drugs to treat osteoarthritis. Advil and Aleve
are over-the-counter brands of these drugs, and there is a whole
host of prescription NSAIDS, including Relefan, Indocin,
Etodolac, Voltaren, and Mobic along with the newer selective
COX 2 inhibitors, like Celebrex, Vioxx, and Bextra.
A patient’s medical history, physical examination, and x-rays
are the most common information sources used to diagnose
osteoarthritis. Blood work can be done to eliminate other
diseases, but there is no blood test for
osteoarthritis.
There are three forms of treatment for
osteoarthritis:
non-pharmacologic,
pharmacologic, and surgical. Each of
these approaches will be addressed,
beginning with the most conservative and
ending with the most aggressive.
By far, weight loss is the most effective
non-pharmacologic
treatment
for
osteoarthritis. For each pound lost, the
pressure on a patient’s knee is reduced by
three to four pounds.
Exercise (which strengthens muscles
that reduce pressure on diseased
joints), braces or neoprene sleeves
for the knees, paraffin hand baths,
and lower-back TENS units can
also be effective non-pharmacologic
These newer drugs
recently
met
with
controversy when Vioxx
and Bextra were pulled
off the market after a
finding of increased risk
of cardiovascular events
associated with their long-term use.
These newer COX 2 inhibitors do not
necessarily have greater efficacy than
other NSAIDS but are thought to have
superior gastrointestinal safety.
A popular treatment
for osteoarthritis has
involved the use of
nutritional supplements.
A popular treatment for osteoarthritis
has involved the use of nutritional
supplements. Glucosamine Sulfate/
Chondroiten is the most studied of these
supplements. Although several studies
have shown these products to be an
effective treatment for osteoarthritis, a
recent study concluded otherwise.
However, because of this drug’s lowtoxicity profile, it is still recommended.
A three-month trial is needed to
determine efficacy. Moreover, not all
brands of this drug are created alike.
Finally, Fish Oil has also been shown to be
beneficial to cartilage health and has long
been advocated for cardiovascular health.
of procedures, including arthoscopy,
osteotomy, and arthroplasty.
Arthroscopy is an outpatient surgery used
to clean up the joint space and repair torn
cartilages. Osteotomy is a procedure used
to realign the joint and is typically used
with younger patients who have
unicompartmental arthritis. Arthroplasty is
a joint replacement for knees and hips.
Injection therapy is also used to
treat osteoarthritis.
Such treatment
includes corticosteroid injections and
viscosupplementation
(lubricant-like
substance) injections.
Corticosteroid injections typically can be
administered in the physician’s office.
This treatment helps reduce inflammation
in and around joints and can last up to
three to four months. It is recommended
that you do not receive more than three or
four injections in a particular location on the body within a
given 12-month period.
In 1997, viscosupplementation therapy was approved for use in
the United States. These injections can also be administered in
the physician’s office. At this time, it is approved only for use
in the knee joints. Examples of this treatment are Supartz,
Synvisc, Hyalgan, and Orthovisc. The injectable lubricant
substance is composed of sodium hyaluronate, which is found
in healthy cartilage. Because most of these preparations are
made from rooster comb preparations, you should alert
your doctor if you are allergic to egg or egg products before
receiving these injections. These shots, if successful, can last
up to six to twelve months. They are given in a series of either
three or five weekly injections, depending on the brand.
Surgical treatment for osteoarthritis should be considered when
a patient’s joint is severely diseased and he is experiencing
intractable pain and loss of function. There are multiple types
Arthroplasty of the knee can be
unicompartmental or a total-knee
arthroplasty. Newer, minimally-invasive
techniques are now available for knee and
hip arthroplasties, resulting in incisions
that are four to six inches rather than the
standard eight to ten-inch incisions.
Experimental treatments, such as osteochondral grafting,
autologous chondrocyte implantation, and mesenchymal stem
cell regeneration, are currently under investigation.
Currently, there is no cure for
osteoarthritis, but it is possible to
have an excellent quality of life.
Additional information can be
found at www.rheumatology.org and
www.arthritis.org.
Leslie McCasland, M.D.
Rheumatology
NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: osteoarthritis
We support this community with confidence.
Here at Regions Bank, we’re proud to be a part of this community. And we remain
committed to providing our neighbors with the financial resources they need to be
successful. Helping them achieve their goals with confidence is an important priority
for us. Learn more at 870-931-1000 or www.regions.com.
Everyday confidence
© 2005 Regions Bank. Member FDIC
WHEN SHOULD YOU
GET AN EYE EX AM?
R
outine comprehensive eye exams are recommended for all
age groups in order to detect potential sight threatening
conditions that could be lessened or cured by early detection and
treatment. For children, age 2 is a good time to perform a
complete thorough eye exam. If there is a family history of
amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes), the
child should be examined as early as 6 months of age.
Another exam should be done before starting
kindergarten or by age 5 to determine the possible
need for corrective lenses (glasses), then every 2
years thereafter.
For adults ages 35 and over, annual comprehensive
eye exams are recommended. Glaucoma, or
elevated pressure in the eye, is more likely to
occur at this time and can result in significant
permanent visual loss if not detected and
treated. In most cases, glaucoma occurs
without any symptoms. Diabetics, in
particular, should have an eye exam
every year and more often if
diabetic retinopathy is detected. The
frequency of follow-up exams is
determined by the severity of the
retinopathy.
Any sudden loss of vision
or eye pain warrants an
immediate evaluation by
your eye care provider.
F. Joseph George, M.D.
Ophthalmology
NEA Clinic – 870.932.0485
R
estless leg syndrome (RLS) is characterized by an
urge to move the legs, usually associated with limb
discomfort. The symptoms occur at rest and are relieved
by movement and are worse in the evening and at
nighttimes. Restless leg syndrome is usually associated
with involuntary contractions of the legs during sleep,
known as periodic limb movements. The severity of
symptoms ranges from annoying and infrequent to
distressing and daily.
For many patients, RSL is a cause of disabling sleep
onset or maintenance insomnia. The disorder is very
common with previous estimates of prevalence ranging
from five percent to 15 percent. The prevalence
increases to around 19 percent in those 80 years and
older. Restless leg syndrome is familial in about half of
patients but may be related to acquired conditions,
especially iron deficiency anemia and chronic renal
failure.
Several medical conditions have been shown to be
effective in treating RLS. The high prevalence of RLS
requires primary care doctors to become familiar with
the condition and take a leading role in its treatment.
Offending medications including such antidepressants
as Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil and Lexapro along with
antihistamines and neuroleptic drugs should be
discontinued. The patient should
also avoid prolonged idleness
and sleep deprivation. In the past,
we have used the Benzodiaepine
drugs,
such
as
Ativan
(Iorazepam), and other similar
agents. The drugs of choice at
present for treatment of RLS
include pramipexole (Mirapex)
and ropinirole (Requip). Some
patients respond to gabapentin
(Neurontin).
Low-potency
opiods such as Ultram (tramadol)
may be beneficial in treatment.
In summary, if you have the
basic criteria that suggest you may have
restless leg syndrome (urge to move the
legs, worsening of symptoms with rest,
relief with activity, and intensification
during the evening), speak with your
doctor about appropriate treatment
for RLS.
Ray Hall, M.D., F.A.C.P.
Internal Medicine
NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150
870-935-5577
Services Available:
Emergency & Non Emergency
Ambulance Transports
Wheelchair Van: To and From
Home, Hospital, Dr. Appointment, etc.
For further information on non-covered
services and any other questions you
may have, call us at 870-935-5577
or drop by and pick up one of
our brochures.
Do You Know What
Ambulance Services Are
Covered By Your Insurance?
Medicare B & Medicaid Covered Services:
• Emergency situation as result of an
accident, injury or acute illness.
• Was bedconfined before and after
the ambulance trip.
• Could only be moved by stretcher
with a documented medical reason.
Serving Northeast Arkansas Since 1932
P
AY$
TO BE
IT
HEALTHY
W
e have all heard the saying “an apple a day keeps
the doctor away,” but in the fast-paced world of
today. We have replaced the apple with pizza and
fast food meals, and rather than taking ownership for our own
health, we rely on the doctor to “fix it.”
The impact of being overweight or obese is known to raise the
risk of at least 15 different disease states such as: type 2
diabetes, high blood pressure, high total cholesterol, coronary
heart disease, congestive heart failure and stroke, etc. As a
result of overeating and physical inactivity, obesity not only
contributes to poor mental and physical health but is also
responsible for more than 200,000 deaths per year. Add to that
an average additional medical expense of $1,500 per year for
overweight and obese people as compared to individuals with
healthy weights, and you have a major health care crisis.
It is too bad that we so often take our health for granted, that
is until we experience that first pain in the chest or hear the
doctor say the dreaded word “cancer”! When our health does
“go south,” we often look to our employer’s health plan to
“kick in” and assume all of the costs. The costs are often
greater than we think for all parties involved. This is because
illness or injury has multiple layers of cost including: the
direct cost of health care borne by you or your employer, the
lost productivity at home or work, as well as the increase in
life insurance and disability claims. In short, we all have a
stake in the game. So what can we do?
Statistics show
• 65 % of adults in the United
States are overweight or obese as
defined by a Body Mass Index
(BMI) of 30 or above
• For women, 30+ pounds
overweight
• For men, 35 to 40+ pounds
overweight
• 30% of our children and
adolescents are overweight, 15%
are obese, double the rates of 25
years ago
• 7 out of 10 of us admit that we
get too little exercise
• 4 out of 10 of us admit that we
get “no” exercise
• Women consume 22 % more
calories than they did 30 years
ago, while men are consuming 7%
more calories.
Many employers are getting ahead of the curve with programs
designed to prevent illness or disease. It is reported that a
health-improvement program of some kind is offered by more than 80 percent of worksites with 50
or more employees and 90 percent of large employers with more than 750 employees. These healthpromotion programs typically include education and awareness, as well as physical activity
offerings through subsidized health club memberships or on-site wellness and fitness
programs. Corporate programs often help employees monitor and manage their
weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels through screening and nutrition
counseling.
Are employer-based health improvement programs making a
difference? The Journal of Occupational and Environmental
Medicine finds: “Physical activity improves the overall quality and
A Physician Directed
Wellness Center
quantity of work preformed and overall job performance.” A multi-year
study conducted by General Motors states that “physical activity, even 20
minutes of brisk walking two or three times a week, can reduce the health care
costs for obese participants on an average of $400 to $500 per year.” Results
of recent studies from other known employers have also shown the positive
impact of “health-improvement programs” such as:
• Johnson & Johnson confirmed a savings of $225 per
employee per year in their health and wellness program.
• Eastman Chemical Company, through their comprehensive
wellness strategy, found lifestyle-related health care claims
for non-participating wellness program employees
increased by 48 percent whereas participating employees
increased by only 14 percent.
• Duke University and Medical Center’s program reduced
absenteeism by an average of 4.6 fewer absentee lost work
days per year for participants it than did with non
participants in its health and wellness programs.
• A national automotive manufacturer reduced new hire
injuries by 72 percent.
Indoor Heated Pool
Cardio Equipment
Free Weights
Selectorized Machines
Group Exercise Classes
Weight Loss Program
Arthritis Management
Heart Risk Factor Reduction
Corporate Health Program
Nutritional Counseling
Health Risk Appraisals
City Blends Juice Bar
Overall, employers are not only finding that educated workers make healthier
workers, but that healthier workers make better workers. By providing
exercise programs, health and wellness promotion programs and disease
prevention programs employers are realizing a return on investment (ROI) of
up to $5 for each $1 spent.
The statistics are convincing – so convincing that the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services hopes to have 75 percent of United States
worksites offering “comprehensive health promotions programs” by 2010.
NEA Clinic Health Systems is not only prepared, but also dedicated to
bringing “comprehensive” health-promotion programs to the residents of
Northeast Arkansas. The strength and talents of the staff at the NEA Clinic
Wellness Center coupled with the medical expertise of our doctors, nurses and
therapists, will create an effective and balanced
program that is fun, safe and caring for the whole
community. For more information contact Steve
Bowen, Director of NEA Clinic Wellness Center, at
870-932-1898 or visit the NEA Clinic Wellness Center
located at 2617 Phillips Drive, Jonesboro, AR.
Mark Carpenter
Director NEA PremierCare
870.932.0023
◆ www.neahealth.com
◆ www.neaclinic.com
2617 Phillips Drive
Jonesboro, AR 72401
870-932-1898
www.neaclinic.com
Join The Battle
As Maggie looks down at her protruding stomach she wearily wonders how this
could have happened. Hours at the gym, watching every bite, how could she be fat
– again? She remembers the first time she became aware of her weight. The
ridicule began in second grade, as did the battle to “control” her waistline. As the
shame settles in around her, Maggie becomes the 8-year-old who wasn’t good
enough, who wasn’t even able to control something as fundamental as how much
food she placed in her mouth.
The reasons for joining the battle are as varied as the soldiers who participate.
Whether you joined the conflict in childhood or later as an adult, many of us can
relate to Maggie’s story and the frustration that goes along with it.
Why so many people lose weight only to gain it back is the question of the hour!
After all, we are experts at losing weight, aren’t we? People who participate in this
struggle can quote the calorie count and fat grams in most every food. They can
name all the fad diets and tell you the year they were in vogue and have spent
enough money on exercise equipment to educate their children.
We know how to get fit and know why we should. However, to quote a popular
12-step program, “If you always do what you’ve always done, you will always get
what you always got.” Keeping that in mind I want you to consider the following,
as I believe they are essential not only to getting started but to maintaining change.
Live in the present.
We never “start over.” You are a different person
today than yesterday.
Because of your
experiences the gifts you bring to this moment are unique. Your growth will be as well.
Be gentle with yourself.
Often our worst critic lives within us. Would you ever criticize a friend as you do yourself?
Of course not. You are a child of God and you should treat yourself as such.
Get real.
Stop comparing yourself to others. Perfection does not exist. If we are constantly reaching for
the unattainable then we fail to achieve our best.
Find a friend.
Someone who will tell you the truth, to whom you can give your secrets without fear of judgment.
Listen to your body.
Being in a food coma can dull your senses. Are you hungry, tired, lonely? Tune in and your body
will tell you what it needs.
Listen to your spirit.
If food/weight is a defense you have used against the pain of abuse or other issues, this will be a
vulnerable time. You may want to consider working with a professional.
Keep your eye on the prize.
Not the prize at the end of the rainbow but those successes that you have everyday. Life is now.
Laugh!
It puts things into perspective. Make choices that honor who you are for “A Better Day.”
Jamie Robinson, LAC, CADC
(Licensed Associate Counselor,
Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor)
Clinic Coordinator, Therapist
A Better Day Resource Center
Maybe...
it isn’t broken.
Individual, Couple, and Family Counseling Available.
One-Time or Ongoing. FREE initial consultation.
a
BetterDay
Resource Center, LLC
Play Therapy
Employee Assistance Programs • Psychological Testing
Insurance & Private Pay Services
1801 Executive Square • Jonesboro, AR 72401
870.336.1450 • Fax: 870.336.1452
For your convenience we accept:
Visa • MasterCard • Discover • American Express • Private Insurance
Administered by Families, Inc. Counseling Services
Cover Story
Children
&
obesity
AND
O
O
besity in the United States and in
Arkansas is increasing at alarming
rates every year. Almost two-thirds
of Americans are overweight. The percentage
of children who are now designated as obese is
also growing. The number of overweight
children in our country has doubled since
the 1970s.
Now, 10 percent of preschoolers and 30 percent
of school-age children are overweight, with 15
perscent being obese. Problems that once were
only seen in adults are now becoming issues
with overweight children. Those problems
include diabetes, high blood pressure and high
cholesterol. Even joint disorders such as
arthritis are now being seen in our younger
population.
Just as startling is the news that nearly half of all
children in North and South America will be
overweight by 2010, according to a recent
report published by the International Journal of
Pediatric Obesity. Some doctors have cited this
information as cause for concern that the current
generation of children may have a lower life
expectancy than their parents, a phenomenon
unknown in recent history.
The underlying cause for obesity could in some
cases be genetics or hormones, a factor that
should be considered when discussing a child’s
weight. However, more often than not the real
cause is eating habits and a lack of activity.
Preventing children from becoming overweight
or helping obese children overcome their weight
means adopting healthy
lifestyles for our children as
well as the whole family.
Parents will need to become
involved if we are to solve this
issue at hand.
First, we must get our
children up and moving. For
children, exercise means to
play and participate in
physical
activities.
Preschoolers need at least
two hours of physical play a
day. School-age children need
at least one hour or more. This
can be in 15-minute increments
throughout the day. Children
should not be inactive for prolonged
periods throughout the day. This means
that television or computer time should be
eliminated for children under two years of
age and limited to two hours a day for schoolage children.
Exercise for children doesn’t mean that they are
to be enlisted in exercise class. For children, at
least half of their physical activity should be
free play. Organized sports are a great way to
get children involved. Activities such as
swimming, dance, skating, horseback riding,
tennis, gymnastics, ultimate Frisbee, martial
arts and hiking are other forms of physical
exercise. The important point is to get your
child up and moving.
Dieting is not recommended for children who
are overweight. Instead, it is better to feed your
children a healthy diet full of fruits and
for children, at least half of their
physical activity should be free play.
◆ www.neacfoundation.org
◆ www.healthyarkansas.com
Children & Obesity (continued)
vegetables and help your child become more active.
Lowering the rate of weight gain as your
child grows taller is key.
Start healthy habits early. Try grilled chicken for fast
food options. Now restaurants are offering fruit and
milk as alternatives to fries and soft drinks. In general,
limit your visits to fast-food restaurants so kids don’t
come to rely on that type of food whenever they’re in
a hurry or don’t want to take the time to make a
healthy meal.
T
not to eat certain foods
when there are chips in the
pantry. Families need to
learn to eat healthy together
and play healthy together. Go
grocery shopping together to
learn how to make good food
choices. Take the children for afterdinner walks, or go to the park and play
together. It is important to practice what you
preach. If they see the parents eating
healthy and being physically active, they
healthy are more likely to adopt those habits.
Try keeping healthy foods for
ry keeping
snacks around the house. Instead
foods for snacks
of chips and dip, try keeping fresh
Don’t wait until your child’s weight has
around the house.
vegetables and veggie dip. Keep a
reached a critical level. Start practicing
bowl of fruit in the house instead of candy. Encourage these healthy habits early on. The younger your child
children to eat a healthy breakfast every day.
is, the easier it is to instill good behaviors.
Don’t use sweets as treats for good behavior, as that
habit can make kids value dessert more than the main
meal. And don’t use the clean-plate policy that most
Americans grew up with. It is important for children to
only eat when they are hungry and not be punished for
not eating.
However, the most important concept for healthier
children is to incorporate the whole family into a
healthy lifestyle. It does no good to tell your children
Above all, always let your children know
that they are loved. De-emphasize talking
about their weight and encourage feeling
healthy. Support your children in becoming
more physically active. Every day,
remind them that they are important and
special.
Melissa Yawn, M.D.
Family Practice – Hilltop Clinic
NEA Clinic – 870.932.8222
The younger your child is,
the easier it is to instill
good behaviors.
DOC+FINDER
870.935.NEAC
ANESTHESIOLOGY
Alfonso Aquino, M.D.
Sheila Stinson, M.D.
Oskana Redko, M.D.
(870) 972-7390
HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY
Ronald J. Blachly, M.D.
D. Allen Nixon, Jr., M.D.
Carroll D. Scroggin, Jr., M.D.
(870) 935-4150
CARDIAC, VASCULAR,
& THORACIC SURGERY
James A. Ameika, M.D.
(870) 972-8030
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Ray H. Hall, Jr., M.D.
Stephen O. Woodruff, M.D.
Ryszarda Hejmej, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
Michael Raborn, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
Alex Kosloff, M.D.
Windover Clinic
(870) 935-5432
CARDIOLOGY
Anthony T. White, M.D.
Michael L. Isaacson, M.D.
Eumar T. Tagupa, M.D.
D.V. Patel, M.D.
Robert D. Taylor, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
Joseph Kulpeksa, M.D.
Blytheville
(870) 762-3331
Holli Banks-Giles, M.D.
Osceola
(870) 563-5888
DERMATOLOGY
James Towry, D.O.
(870) 934-3530
ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY
Ben Naidoo, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Brewer Rhodes, M.D.
Michael Tomlinson, M.D.
(870) 972-7251
NEPHROLOGY
Michael G. Mackey, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
Dialysis Center
(870) 934-5705
NEUROLOGY
Kenneth Chan, D.O.
Bing Behrens, M.D.
(870) 935-8388
ENDOCRINOLOGY
Kevin D. Ganong, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
Diabetes Center
(870) 935-4150
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Michael D. Hightower, M.D.
Brad Moore, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
GENERAL SURGERY
K. Bruce Jones, M.D.
Russell D. Degges, M.D.
John A. Johnson, III, M.D.
(870) 932-4875
HOSPITALIST
Robert White, M.D.
Kim Davis, M.D.
Brock F. Harris, M.D.
(870) 972-7000
NEUROSURGERY
Robert Abraham, M.D.
(870) 935-8388
OBSTETRICS/ GYNECOLOGY
Charles L. Barker, M.D., Ph.D.
Mark C. Stripling, M.D.
Charles C. Dunn, M.D.
Norbert Delacey, M.D.
Michael Hong, M.D.
Lorna Layton, M.D.
(870) 972-8788
OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE
Richard A. Covert, M.D., M.P.H.
(870) 910-6024
SLEEP MEDICINE
David Nichols, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
OPHTHALMOLOGY
Joseph George, M.D.
Matthew Margolis, D.O.
James Cullins, O.D.
(870) 932-0485
FAMILY PRACTICE
WINDOVER CLINIC
J. Timothy Dow, M.D.
Douglas L. Maglothin, M.D.
Joe McGrath, M.D.
James F. Murrey, M.D.
Carrie Hunter, M.D.
(870) 935-5432
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
Henry Stroope, M.D.
Jason Brandt, M.D.
(870) 935-8388
OTOLARYNGOLOGY (ENT)
Bryan Lansford, M.D.
(870) 934-5500
Hearing & Allergy Center
(870) 934-5500
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Jeff Ramsey, P.T.
(870) 336-1530
PLASTIC &
RECONSTRUCTIVE
SURGERY
W. Tomasz Majewski, M.D.
(870) 934-3530
PULMONOLOGY
William S. Hubbard, M.D.
Meredith M. Walker, M.D.
Patrick Savage, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
RADIOLOGY
Jeffery S. Mullen, M.D.
John K. Phillips, M.D.
(870) 934-3533
RHEUMATOLOGY
Beata Majewski, M.D.
Leslie McCasland, M.D.
(870) 935-4150
OPEN 7
DAYS
A WEEK
WOODSPRINGS CLINIC
Craig A. McDaniel, M.D.
Troy A. Vines, M.D.
W. Scott Hoke, M.D.
Randy Carlton, M.D.
Nathan Turney, M.D.
(870) 933-9250
STADIUM CLINIC
Michael E. Crawley, M.D.
Michael E. Tedder, M.D.
Arnold E. Gilliam, M.D.
(870) 931-8800
HILLTOP CLINIC
Tim Shown, D.O.
Melissa Yawn, M.D.
Jeffrey Barber, D.O.
(870) 932-8222
OSCEOLA CLINIC
Jerry Biggerstaff, M.D.
(870) 563-5888
TRUMANN CLINIC
Nathan Turney, M.D.
Alison Richardson, M.D.
(870) 483-6131
L AKE CITY CLINIC
Kristi Statler, M.D.
(870) 237-4100
Stadium Clinic
(870) 931-8800
Woodsprings Clinic
(870) 910-0012
Hilltop Clinic
(870) 934-3539
Trumann Clinic
(870) 483-6131
Windover Clinic
(870) 935-9585
Late Night Clinic
(870) 910-6040
NEA Clinic Physicians practice at all Jonesboro Hospitals.
Visit our web site at: www.neaclinic.com
CHILDREN IN SPORTS:
Frequently A sked Questions
Q
A
Why should children be encouraged
to participate in physical activities?
Numerous national surveys and studies
indicate that at least 22% of school-age
children are overweight, almost 60% do not
engage in physical activity, and over 60% have
two or more risk factors for developing chronic
diseases.
Q
A
Q
A
Q
A
Q
A
Participation in athletics improves
physical fitness, coordination, selfdiscipline, and teaches teamwork. Active children
are more likely to become healthy, physically
active adults.
Can children get injured during
athletic activities?
Unfortunately injuries sometimes do occur. More
than 3.5 million children are treated annually for
sports-related injuries. Fortunately, most resolve without
long-term disability if properly diagnosed and treated.
How are sports-related
injuries classified?
Injuries fall into two basic categories: overuse
injuries or acute injuries. Overuse injuries result
from a series of small injuries or stresses to an immature
body. Acute injuries are a result of a sudden injury.
What are the most commonly
seen acute injuries?
Most injuries are classified as sprains (a partial
or complete tear of a ligament), strains (a partial
or complete tear of a muscle or tendon), contusions (more
commonly known as a bruise), or occasionally fractures (a
break in a bone).
Q
A
How are strains, sprains, and
contusions initially treated?
Rest, applying Ice, Compression, and Elevating
the injured body part. This regimen is
remembered by the pneumonic RICE.
How can involvement in physical
activities help children?
Q
A
What is “little leaguer’s
elbow”?
This is a fairly common
“overuse” injury during baseball
season. Excessive throwing places too
much stress on the insertion of forearm
muscles on the bone. Other common sites
for tendon-bone insertion problems include
the heels and knees.
Q
A
How are overuse injuries
treated?
Treatment centers identify the
cause of the pain, rest,
rehabilitation, exercises, and changes in
equipment or training protocol and
equipment if necessary.
Q
A
When should a child go to the
doctor after an injury?
Inability to play following an
injury, decreased ability to
participate because of long-term
symptoms, visible deformity of the young
athlete’s arm or leg, or severe pain from an
injury which prevent the use of an arm or
leg warrant examination by a physician. A
young athlete should never be allowed or
expected to “work” through the pain.
Q
A
How are young athletes
different than adults?
The still-growing bones, muscles,
tendons, and ligaments are more
prone to injury. The ends of growing bones
have “growth plates”. These “growth
plates” allow bones to lengthen. The areas
are 3 to 5 times weaker than surrounding
ligaments and tendons. What might result in
a bruise or sprain in an adult can be a serious
“growth plate” injury in a young athlete.
Q
A
What is the difference between
a break and a fracture?
There is no difference.
Fracture is the medical term
for a broken bone.
Q
A
How is a broken bone
diagnosed?
Fractures fortunately only
represent 5-6% of sports injuries.
These injuries often result in severe pain and
associated bruising, swelling, and sometimes
obvious deformity. Only an x-ray can truly
exclude the diagnosis of fracture. The old
coach’s adage that if you can move it or walk
on it, it’s not broken does NOT hold true.
Q
A
How are fractures treated?
A broken bone that is not out of
place may need a cast. Treatment
of a fracture that is out of place may
require sedation with pain medication and
straightening the bone by manipulation or
surgery. This is performed by an
orthopedic surgeon. Casting may follow
until the bone heals.
Q
A
What type of doctor treats
sports injuries?
Initially, the injured child may
be seen in the emergency room
or by his/her primary care doctor. Often a
referral will then be made to an
orthopedic surgeon. An orthopedic doctor
has extensive training in the diagnosis and
both surgical and non-surgical treatment
of the musculoskeletal system including
bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles,
and nerves.
Helpful
Links
American Academy of
Orthopedic Surgeons
www.aaos.org
NEA Clinic
Charitable Foundation
Center for Healthy Children
www.NEAHealth.com
American Academy
of Pediatrics
www.aap.org
Sports activity by young people should
be encouraged and is generally safe
with low risks and high benefits. We
are fortunate to live in an area with
many outstanding organized athletic programs in
which our children can participate. The new NEA
Clinic Center for Healthy Children offers a new
exciting program to get children interested in
physical activity. The primary thing to remember is
that youth sports should always be FUN!
Jason Brandt, M.D.
Orthopedic Surgery
NEA Clinic – 870.935.8388
How can we help to insure that the future will be bright? One way
is by meeting the needs of children, youth and families today. This
is the mission of the Junior Auxiliary of Jonesboro, AR, Inc., a nonprofit women’s volunteer service organization founded in 1950. We
look for ways to improve the lives of Craighead County children by
developing and implementing programs that instill self-esteem and
challenge minds.
Members of the Junior Auxiliary of Jonesboro, AR work
community service projects in the health, welfare, civic, cultural
and educational fields. We also work closely with the staff of local
school districts and other organizations to identify children with
unmet special needs such as clothing, school supplies and
medical/dental care.
Charity Ball, our annual dinner and auction, sponsored by hundreds
of individual and business supporters, provides funding for our
many service projects. Welfare projects currently under way are
listed on our Web site, but we are constantly searching for new
project ideas and challenges to better serve the community. If you
know of a way we can help out, please let us know.
Junior Auxiliary of Jonesboro, AR, Inc.
P.O. Box 878, Jonesboro, AR 72403
www.jajonesboro.org
When it comes to patient care and service,
THE SKY IS THE LIMIT!
•
•
•
•
Home Oxygen Systems
CPAP/BiPAP
Nebulizers
Beds/Wheelchairs
824A Cobb St. • (870) 972-8062
• Total Parenteral Nutrition
• IVIG Therapies
• Chemotherapy
• Other Innovative IV Therapies
824 Cobb St.• (870) 972-1677
Northeast Arkansas
Answers Katrina’s Call
T
here are a few things
that we all know
are important parts
of everyday life… eating,
sleeping and going to the
grocery store. You might even
call them routine. But what happens
when a category 4 hurricane is aimed
right at your routine?
If you were one of the more than 300
evacuees who ended up in Jonesboro, you
might consider yourself very fortunate.
Jonesboro, Arkansas has always been a
caring community. It’s known throughout
the region as home to outstanding banking
centers, healthcare providers and a variety
of philanthropic organizations. It should
come as no surprise to anyone that the level
of support that was provided to the
evacuees of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita
was phenomenal.
A community-wide service meeting led
to an understanding that there were
going to be a lot of agencies that would
have great services to offer, and the best
way to accomplish that was to centrally
locate them. NEA Clinic made a phone
call to Bill Fritz at Coldwell Banker
Village Community, who worked out all
the logistics with Daimler-Chrysler to
arrange use of the old Jelks building rentfree. What unfolded after the building was
secured actually amazed the FEMA
representatives who later came to visit.
Federal, state, and local authorities,
volunteer agencies and private industry
were housed in the same building all
working together for the same cause.
Christy Jordan of The Food Bank of
Northeast Arkansas states that over
325,889 pounds of food were donated and
distributed locally. That included feeding
the evacuees and volunteers at the Jelks
building as well as back-stocking the
local shelters.
The American Red Cross – Northeast
Arkansas Chapter distributed over $1
million in funds to local evacuees. Mark
Massey, Regional Director, says they also
provided disaster volunteer training to
more than 2,500 volunteers in a two-week
time frame.
The Salvation Army, locally directed by
Capt. Craig and Mrs. Stephanie Greenham,
performed the overwhelming task of
arranging all the donated food, clothes and
toiletry goods in a fashion similar to a
grocery store, complete with carts.
The U.S. Postal Service did a phenomenal
job of rerouting mail and provided what
were termed “phantom boxes” to well over
200 evacuees and their families. Jonesboro
Postmaster Hillrey Adams said that at any
time he might have had six employees,
including himself and his supervisor,
assisting people with re-routing their mail.
Mr. Adams also noted that hand delivery of
FEMA checks was an additional
service that his office took to heart. “We
knew these folks needed this money and
we wanted to get it to them quickly,” he
said. He also notes that the Jonesboro post
office now employs a former New Orleans
postal carrier.
being filled and, in a couple
of families, babies were being born.
NEA Clinic’s Late Night Urgent Care was
opened during daytime hours to provide
additional support to the existing four
Urgent Care locations in the Jonesboro
area. This was quickly named “NEA Clinic
Disaster Relief Medical Unit.” Staffed by
triage nurses with a physician on-call, this
was a very successful location providing
blood pressure screening, glucose testing
and vaccinations and immunizations,
as needed.
We are so fortunate to have such an
amazing community. Special thanks to:
David Moore, the Mayor’s office,
Jonesboro Police Department, Craighead
County Sheriff’s Department, Department
of Workforce, Express Personnel,
StaffMark, Arkansas State University, the
Housing Authority, Social Security
Administration, Economic Development at
ASU, and all the local residents who
offered their homes, transportation and
support to those in need.
Jack Richardson, Craighead County
Office of Emergency Management, said,
“I think the preparedness awareness
levels are higher now than before the
storms; however, I still think that most of
our citizens don’t think that any disaster
will happen to us, only someone else.”
The Craighead County Crisis Response
Team, comprised of volunteers who are
trained in crisis management, and many of
whom are certified counselors and
therapists, were on hand to assist with a
variety of emotional needs.
“I know that locally preparedness levels
are higher. I just hope it doesn’t subside. …
Like Scarlet O’Hara once said, ‘I’ll think
about that tomorrow.’” Mark Massey,
Red Cross.
United Way assisted NEA Clinic with
recruiting volunteers and was able to
collect and distribute over $40,000 to
organizations and individuals that needed
help during the Hurricane Relief efforts.
NEA Clinic and NEA Medical Center were
working hand in hand to ensure medical
needs were being met, prescriptions were
Pictured (L-R): Brenda Sipa, David
Moore, Christie Jordon, Aaron Yim and
Jack Richardson at the Jelks Building.
STROKE
A
stroke can be caused by either a
blood clot blocking the flow
of blood or by a blood vessel
rupturing and preventing blood flow to
the brain.
Depending on the severity of the blockage
there may be signs and symptoms. Some
of these signs and symptoms may be barely
able to be noticed while others involve
difficulty with speaking or moving a part of
the body. The other symptoms will be
outlined below.
You should realize that a stroke is a
medical emergency. Too often people
who begin to experience signs and
symptoms of a stroke wait at home
thinking that the odd sensations or feelings
will “go away”. The sooner you get to a
hospital for emergency treatment the
quicker appropriate medication may be
given and your treatment started.
FACTS:
There are approximately 750,000 new
strokes that occur in the United States each
year. Stroke is the third leading cause of
death (after heart disease and cancer).
Every 45 seconds someone in the United
States has a stroke. Every 3 minutes
someone dies of one.
When someone has shown symptoms of a
stroke a doctor will gather information.
They will then review the events that have
occurred and make the appropriate
diagnosis. People may undergo laboratory
tests, a CT (computed tomography) or
CAT scan, or an MRI (magnetic resonance
imaging). An EEG may be done as well to
look at the activity of the brain.
Once the diagnosis has been appropriately
A stroke is a brain attack. It is similar to a heart attack except it occurs
in the brain. It affects the arteries that lead to the brain. A stroke
occurs when the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the
brain are either blocked by a clot or burst. If this happens, that part of
the brain cannot get enough blood it needs so it starts to die.
made and the treatment instituted, then it is
important to institute rehabilitation
measures to improve the chance of
recovery after the stroke.
Multiple studies have shown that
individuals hospitalized in a specialized
rehabilitation setting for stroke do better
than those who have not received that
same treatment.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of
Jonesboro offers the ability of an expert
panel of healthcare professionals led by a
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Physician to aid with the recovery after
the stroke.
IMPORTANT SYMPTOMS OF A
STROKE: Symptoms may come on
suddenly or gradually. There is usually no
pain associated with the symptoms. The
symptoms may come and go. If the
symptoms go away completely in a short
period of time, this is called a transient
ischemic attack (TIA).
Up to 30% of all strokes occur during sleep
with people awakening with the symptoms
of a stroke.
If any of the symptoms occur in
you, a friend, or family member,
you should seek medical
treatment immediately because
this is a medical emergency.
You should immediately dial 911
and call for an ambulance and
transport to a hospital emergency
department.
Once you have been stabilized at
the hospital and are sent for
intensive inpatient rehabilitation,
a team of professionals as previously
mentioned will be involved in your care.
The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Physician (physiatrist) is specially trained
in the medical diagnosis and treatment of
individuals after stroke. You will have
a physical therapist, occupational therapist,
speech therapist, psychologist, case
manager, and a rehabilitation nurse
involved. All these individuals work
together to assure that you attain the
maximum benefit from a rehabilitation
environment in order to help you recover
from your stroke.
Specialized medications may be used
during your hospitalization after your
stroke. These are to help not only with the
stroke symptoms themselves but may aid
with any tightness that develops in the arm
or leg, prevention of blood clots in the
leg developing because of paralysis, and
medications to aid with depression, which
is very common after the stroke.
Specialized devices will be utilized to aid
with your recovery after stroke. VitalStim
(stimulation of the throat muscles on the
outside of the neck) will be used to aid with
retraining and regaining swallowing
function, interactive metronome to aid
THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS
ARE THE FOLLOWING:
Weakness in the arm or leg on the same side.
Difficulty with speaking.
Feeling of dizziness.
Difficulty with movement of the arm or leg
and coordination.
Sudden or severe headache.
Sudden unconsciousness.
with the recovery of function in the arm and
leg, specialized bracing and exercises will be
utilized to regain the function that has been
lost. Many people recover after a stroke. At
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital it is our
goal to get people back to play, back to work,
and back to living. Some will recover more
than others. This is often a function of the
size of the stroke, the location of the stroke in
the brain, and the body’s ability to heal. But
I often tell my patients that it will be the
effort on their part and their families to be
involved, intervention from the Lord, and the
excellent care and therapy that they will
receive that will all combine to aid with
their recovery.
Healthy Heart
Web sites:
www.neahealth.com
www.americanheart.org
www.strokeassociation.org
www.justmove.org
www.deliciousdecisions.org
In the future HealthSouth Rehabilitation
Hospital of Jonesboro will also be offering
the
auto-ambulator,
cutting–edge
technology to aid with the recovery of
walking capability after a neurological
disease including stroke.
In summary, stroke is a medical emergency.
There are some symptoms that can occur and
should be recognized and be treated as an
immediate need to dial 911 and present
for treatment.
If there are any questions regarding stroke,
stroke rehabilitation, or the treatment of
people post-stroke, contact Dr. Terence
Braden at 870-934-1099 or HealthSouth
Rehabilitation Hospital of Jonesboro
870-932-0440.
?
WHAT IS Hospital Medicine?
WHAT IS A Hospitalist?
H
ospital medicine is the fastest
growing medical specialty in
the United States today. A
hospitalist is a medical doctor who
focuses on the treatment of hospitalized
patients. Many patients are referred to
hospitalists by their primary care
physician. The hospitalist will care for
the patient for the duration of
hospitalization and then return the
patient to the care of their doctor at the
time of discharge.
hospital, they know how to expedite
care. They are familiar with all key
individuals in the hospital including
medical and surgical personnel,
discharge planners, pharmacy, X-Ray
technicians, etc.
Because of the focus on hospitalization,
hospitalists are able to recognize patients
who require special attention, anticipate
problems and rapidly respond to
changes in a patient’s condition.
Continuity of care for the patient is
improved with hospitalist care and can
actually better facilitate communication
after discharge to such providers as
home health or nursing homes or
specialized needs in the home.
NEA Medical Center has recently added
a hospitalist program for the care of its
patients, and we think that this is going
to be a major improvement for patient
care. Dr. Robert White, Dr. Kim Davis
and Dr. Brock Harris are the hospitalists
working at NEA Medical Center.
Hospitalists also consult on patients who
are referred by medical subspecialists.
The hospitalist in this role will care for
the patient and the patient with adult
medicine problems while the patient is
in the hospital for surgical procedures or
other medical problems.
A hospitalist essentially acts as a center
point or hub while the patients are ill.
They consult specialists for particular
problem areas as these problems arise.
There are an estimated 12,000 practicing
hospitalists in the United Sates today,
and this number is expected to rise to
30,000 in the next five to six years.
Hospitalists are on site and able to
communicate more frequently with
patients, consultants, as well as primary
care physicians. Continuous availability
can improve patient care. There has been
a shift of more care to an outpatient
setting, and today’s hospitalized patients
are more acutely ill than ever before.
Because hospitalists work daily in the
NEA Clinic is providing a new level of
care through its NEA Medical Center
partnership by including an integrated
delivery system between outpatient and
inpatient care. Drs. White, Davis and
Harris will be in the hospital to accept
referrals and transfers from primary
care physicians in the area. They will
consult and treat patients referred by
surgeons and other specialists during
their hospital stay with us.
NEA Clinic
870.935.4150
www.neaclinic.com
NEA Medical Center
870.972.7000
www.neamedicalcenter.com
William Hubbard M.D.
Pulmonary Medicine
Director, Hospitalist Services
NEA HEALTH SYSTEMS
REHABILITATION
HEART
INSTITUTE
OF
NEA
INTERVENTION
EMERGENCY
SURGERY
THE
S TATE - OF - THE -H EART C ARE
Our two fully equipped catheterization laboratories are the most advanced in
cardiac care, enabling cardiologists to provide a full range of diagnostic and
therapeutic procedures including:
* Angioplasty
* Peripheral balloon
angioplasty
* Stent Placement
PREVENTION
DIAGNOSIS
* Renal angiograms
* Drug-eluting coronary
stent placements
* Peripheral
angiograms
* PTA and stenting
* Endo - repair
Our highly-trained staff of dedicated, caring professionals practice leading edge
cardiac care in a personalized, high-attention setting. If you’re suffering from
heart disease, we’re just the hospital to trust your heart to.
LEADING EDGE
HEALTH CARE
Misconceptions about
heumatoid
rthritis
R
a
I am too young for this!
Many young patients come to me in disbelief. They
cannot accept their diagnosis. The truth is that this can
happen to anyone, young or old. Unlike osteoarthritis,
Rheumatoid Arthritis can strike at any age, and
involve healthy or damaged joints.
Doesn’t it get women only?
Although women develop RA more frequently then
men, this is not a disease exclusive to women. Men
can suffer from severe RA also.
It may go away if I just wait.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is usually taking a progressive,
chronic course. That means it is not going away by
itself, and without treatment it will lead to joint
damage in a matter of weeks to months. Once the
damage is done, it is irreversible. In the past RA led to
disability from work within two years.
It cannot be me; it does not run
in my family!
RA is associated with certain genetic predisposition.
We are able to find families with people affected by
RA in multiple generations. The predisposing gene
lies in chromosome 6. So far we do not routinely
screen for the presence of the gene in anyone because
the presence of the gene does not guarantee that the
individual will develop the disease. The opposite is
also true – you do not need to have a certain genetic
marker to develop the disease.
RA starts most likely as an interaction of so-far
unknown environmental triggers and genetic factors.
The truth is: you may be the first one and the only one
in your family to get this disease.
It is not the “crippling arthritis”;
it does not show in my blood.
What is tested in the blood is the presence of
antibodies called Rheumatoid Factor. Those
antibodies are likely to confirm diagnosis of RA in the
patient with symptoms of RA. Presence of abnormal
blood tests in the absence of symptoms does not
constitute the disease. That means that the test helps
doctors decide on the diagnosis. It is not diagnostic
by itself.
On the other hand, many people develop symptoms of
RA without the RA factor in the blood work. If that is
the case, a trained rheumatologist is able to recognize
the disease without the support of the confirmatory
test. It is a current belief that patients with lower titer
or absence of RA factor in their blood stream have a
better prognosis and a less aggressive disease.
I don’t need strong medications yet!
Current standards of care call for immediate initiation of
treatment right at the time of diagnosis. Delay of
treatment by weeks to 3 months can result in irreversible
joint damage. The most damage to the joints occurs in
the first 2 years of the disease. Delay in proper care
dramatically decreases chances for disease remission.
Medications used for treatment of RA are designed to
affect certain pathways in the inflammatory cascade,
and prevent the attack of inflammatory lymphocytes on
the inner lining of the joint. Most commonly used
medications fall into the category of “disease modifying
medications” or “biologic medications”. Those
medications require monitoring by a rheumatologist.
Medications for RA can
cause lymphoma.
The unfortunate truth is that patients suffering from
RA are at an increased risk for lymphoproliferative
disorders, specifically lymphoma and leukemia,
compared to the healthy population.
Each medication introduced into the market is
carefully monitored. So far, there is no evidence that
medications commonly used for treatment of RA
increase one’s chances of developing lymphoma.
Steroids are bad for you!
Medications in the group of corticosteroids are potent
in decreasing signs and symptoms of inflammation.
They are used specifically in the initial treatment
phases to reduce swelling and discomfort. Usually the
effort is made to reduce the dose of steroids or to
eliminate it from the regimen of treatment as soon as
possible. Prolonged use of steroids, especially in
higher daily doses, can lead to multiple side affects.
These would include earlier cataract formation,
glaucoma, osteoporosis, diabetes, weight gain,
anxiety, and sleeplessness. On the other hand, low
doses or short courses of steroids are able to abort a
flare and dramatically improve symptoms.
It is a disease of joints only.
WRONG. RA is a systemic disease. It is triggered by
a dysfunction of the immune system. It primarily
targets joints but can also cause weight loss, fever,
anemia, inflammation of the blood vessels and leg
ulcers. Nodules can form in the lungs, along tendons,
within the lining of the brain, etc. Those can be
mistaken for cancer. Untreated RA also increases
chances of lymphoma and leukemia in the individual.
Poorly controlled inflammation is also known to result
in accelerated atherosclerosis (hardening of blood
vessels) and increases chances of a stroke and
heart attack.
So now, I will be crippled!
No. With current medications, we can not only
provide relief of symptoms of the disease but also
prevent damage. Our goal is to quickly eliminate any
signs of ongoing inflammation. The sooner it is done,
the less the chances for chronic damage.
Careful monitoring of symptoms, joint
exam by a skilled rheumatologist, and
appropriate medication adjustment is
necessary in the health of your joints
in the years to come.
Beata Majewski, M.D.
Rheumatology
NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150
keyword: rheumatoid arthritis
A l l e r g i e s ?
Did you know that the not-so-distant
city of Little Rock was the second-worst
city in the country for spring allergies
last year?
That piece of information comes from
the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of
America, which studies allergies and
offers tips for surviving them. The other
nine locations in their top-10 list all
came from nearby states such as
Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi,
Kentucky, Virginia and North and South
Carolina.
Every year, springtime brings with it the
beauty of green grass, colorful flowers
and, unfortunately, lots and lots of pollen
– a fine, powdery substance released by
plants. Pollen can drift through the air
for hundreds of miles and is usually
common throughout the spring, summer
and into early fall.
And although pollen means that the
plants are healthy and doing what plants
normally do – propagate themselves – it
can be a burden for those people with
pollen allergies, or hay fever.
According to the American
Academy of Allergy,
Asthma & Immunology,
approximately 50 million
Americans have allergies,
and 36 million of those
have hay fever. Their
symptoms can range
from runny noses and
watery eyes to full-blown
sinus infections stemming
from allergy congestion.
But there are things you
can do to help alleviate
these symptoms.
One of the most important
steps is keeping your home
clean. Doing laundry and
cleaning furniture and
bedding often to keep dust
mites at bay is a must.
When washing, use the
hottest water that your
clothes and other items
will tolerate and use a hot
setting on the dryer to kill
dust mites.
Be sure that any dark or damp areas are
kept as clean as possible, and try to keep
your belongings – and yourself – out of
those areas, as they may be home to
molds.
If you want some cool air to relieve the
hot summer temperatures, try to use an
air conditioner instead of leaving the
windows open. Also, try to keep air
conditioners on “recirculate” mode,
since that uses inside air and not pollenridden air from outside.
If you’ve ever wanted hardwood floors,
allergy season might be just the time to
get rid of those carpets – they also like to
give lodging to those pesky mites.
If you have severe allergies, you should,
of course, see your doctor about
treatment options. He or she may be able
to recommend some over-the-counter
treatments for fast relief or prescriptions
for more persistent allergies.
Allergy shots are available for many
people who have chronic allergies, but
shots are intended
more as a long-term
treatment than a
quick fix and require
multiple visits to the
doctor.
Lastly, a common
household “cure”
for allergies is
eating honey that
comes from local
honey bee hives.
Because the honey is
local, it will have
been exposed to the
plants and pollens
around it and now
contains pieces of
those pollens. When
taken in small doses
in the months leading
to allergy season,
local honey can act
as a booster to the
immune system.
NEA Clinic Allergy Center – 870.934.5500
3100 Apache Dr., Jonesboro, AR
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: allergy
YOUR
SATISFACTION
- MY SUCCESS
Deborah Allen, ABR
Desk: 870-974-7370
Mobile: 870-926-0822
Toll Free: (800) 210-7138
Call For Your Private Tour!
Member of
2102 Fowler Ave.
For Neighborhood Information
DeborahAllen.Homelog.com
View Available Homes at
www.totalhometour.com
2512 Tumbleweed, Jonesboro, AR
$1,295,000
4100 Charleston, Jonesboro, AR
$299,500
Jonesboro Economical Transit
System (J.E.T.S.) is beginning its
services to the general public on May
4, 2006. All rides during the month of
May will be free. J.E.T.S. will begin
collecting fares on June 1, 2006.
J.E.T.S. will also be providing a
“Curb To Curb” service called
Para-Transit. This will be a service
designed primarily for the elderly
and disabled. J.E.T.S. will allow
customers to call in twenty-four hours
prior to their need for pickup. Priority
will be given to customers that meet
the ADA specifications.
J.E.T.S. has three (3) routes that
include 121 stops and 32 shelters.
Five of those stops are located on the
ASU campus.
Fares:
Adults • $1.00
Students • $0.75
Seniors • $0.50
Disabled • $0.50
Para-transit • $2.50
(each direction)
For more information
(870) 935-JETS
Single Source, Total Health
NEA PremierCare includes:
•
•
•
•
NEA Clinic
NEA Medical Center
The Surgical Hospital of Jonesboro
Independent Physicians
To find out if your health plan is in-network, please call us at (870) 932-0023
Quality
Choice
Access
Value
A New Solution for Spinal Fractures
Caused by Osteoporosis
The Condition: Spinal Fractures
Osteoporosis causes more than 700,000
spinal fractures each year in the U.S.
According to the National Osteoporosis
Foundation, this is more than twice the
annual number of hip fractures.
Spinal fractures can also be caused by
cancer, the most common being multiple
myeloma. According to the Multiple
Myeloma Research Foundation, in
the majority of patients with
multiple myeloma, osteolytic
lesions develop which weaken
the bone, causing pain and
increasing the risk of fractures.
Some spinal fractures may
collapse acutely while others
collapse more slowly. Left
untreated, one fracture can
lead to subsequent fractures,
often resulting in a condition
called kyphosis, or rounded
back. Kyphosis, signified by the
dowager’s hump, can compress
the chest and abdominal cavity,
which may result in negative
health consequences.
Balloon Kyphoplasty is a
minimally invasive, orthopaedic
treatment that stabilizes the
fracture, thereby reducing pain
and providing for correction of
the deformity. Studies also
report the following benefits:
• Correction of vertebral body
deformity
• Significant reduction in
back pain
• Significant improvement in
quality of life
• Significant improvement in mobility,
including the ability to perform
daily activities such as walking, hobbies
and work
• Significant reduction in the number
of days per month that a patient
remains in bed
• Low complication rate
About the Balloon
Kyphoplasty Procedure
The spine specialist creates a small
pathway into the fractured bone. A small,
orthopaedic balloon is guided through the
instrument into the vertebra. The incision
site is approximately 1 cm in length. The
balloon is carefully inflated in an attempt to
raise the collapsed vertebra and return it to
its normal position. Inflation of the balloon
creates a void (cavity) in the vertebral body.
Once the vertebra is in the correct position,
the balloon is deflated and
removed. The cavity is filled with
bone cement forming an “internal
cast” to support the surrounding
bone and prevent further collapse.
Generally, the procedure is done
on both sides of the vertebral body.
The
Balloon
Kyphoplasty
procedure typically takes about one
hour per fracture and may require an
overnight hospital stay. The procedure
can be done using either local or
general anesthesia; the surgeon will
determine the most appropriate method,
based on the patient’s overall condition.
In most cases, Medicare provides
coverage for Balloon Kyphoplasty.
Other insurance plans may also cover
the procedure.
Although the complication rate with
Balloon Kyphoplasty has been
demonstrated to be low, as with most
surgical procedures there are
risks associated with Balloon
Kyphoplasty, including serious
complications. Patients should
consult with their physician for a
full discussion of the risks.
KyphX® Inflatable Bone Tamps
are intended to be used as conventional
bone tamps for the reduction of fractures
and/or creation of a void in cancellous
bone in the spine (including use during
Balloon Kyphoplasty with KyphX® HVR™ Bone Cement), hand, tibia, radius and
calcaneus. KyphX® HV-R™ Bone
Cement is indicated for the treatment of
pathological fractures of the vertebral body
due to osteoporosis, cancer or benign
lesions using a Balloon Kyphoplasty
procedure. Cancer includes multiple
myeloma and metastatic lesions, including
those arising from breast or lung cancer, or
lymphoma. Benign lesions include
hemangioma and giant cell tumors.
Locally, NEA Clinic’s Dr. Robert
Abraham is offering this treatment option
to patients suffering from spinal fractures
due to osteoporosis. For a consultation
concerning treatment options for a spinal
fracture, please contact Dr. Abraham at
(870) 935-8388.
Dr. Coates
Dr. Reiner
Dr. Haughey
Good People...
Good Medicine
If you have
foot pain ...
... You need a
foot doctor
• Diabetic Foot Care
• Diabetic Custom Shoes
• Children’s Foot Care
• Ingrown Toenails
• Heel & Arch Pain
• Corns/Calluses
• Bunion Pain
• Hammertoes
• Ankle Pain
• Plantar Warts
• Wound Care
931-FEET
1-800-737-3668
637 E. Matthews, Jonesboro
Jonesbo
Offices Located In:
Jonesboro, Walnut Ridge, Pocahontas,
Newport, Cherokee Village
Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Definition: Sleep apnea syndrome is not a disease but is
classified as a syndrome. Apnea is from the Greek root
word for “a,” meaning without, and “pnea,” which means
breathing. Sleep apnea is defined as temporary absence of
breathing during sleep.
What happens during sleep apnea? Narrowing
and complete closing of the upper airway can occur during
sleep. Narrowing can cause snoring or noisy breathing and
closing or obstruction can cause changes in oxygen level,
blood pressure, heart rate or pulse. Changes in these
psychological perimeters result in awakening and
fragmentation of sleep.
after a spouse or family members have heard the patient
choking or strangling through the night. If sleep apnea is
suspected, then screening with a questionnaire is
recommended. Other screening tests and a physical exam
help your doctor to decide if you need a sleep study called
polysomnography.
A polysomnogram or “sleep study” is a scientific study that
is done on a patient overnight that measures blood oxygen
level, heart rate and electrocardiogram, breathing efforts
and airflow, stages and EEG wave forms during sleep and
limb movement during sleep.
Is obstructive sleep apnea dangerous?
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in its mildest form
can cause decreased concentration and daytime
sleepiness. This can lead to increased auto accidents
or accidents at home. In more severe forms of
870.934.4150
obstructive sleep apnea, fluctuations in oxygen level,
heart rate and blood pressure can put stress on the heart and
What problems can occur in a person with
other organs. Anyone who already has medical disease
sleep apnea? If a person has sleep apnea and sleep is
and/or blood pressure problems or even coronary disease
broken up, that person can experience inadequate sleep. The
may find those conditions worsening
symptoms of inadequate sleep include: morning confusion,
by changes that occur during moderate
headaches in the morning, memory impairment or difficulty
to severe sleep apnea.
concentrating, dry mouth, daytime sleepiness and
sometimes even personality change. Patients usually have
If you think you or a family member
restless sleep, frequent awakenings with choking, gasping
may have sleep apnea see your family
or smothering and occasionally awakening with chest pain
doctor for more information.
or discomfort.
To get proper sleep, we all need to have
each stage of sleep represented. When
sleep is disturbed by changes in vital
signs, then proper sleep is not obtained.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed and what to
do if you suspect sleep apnea? Your doctor may
suspect these conditions based upon symptoms that you
describe to him. Many times patients come to the doctor
William Hubbard, M.D.
Pulmonology
NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: Sleep Apnea
Yogurt Pops
• 2 c. plain yogurt
• 3/4 c. frozen orange juice from
concentrate, thawed
• 1 tbsp. honey
Variations: Try flavored yogurts or
other juice concentrates like
pineapple, raspberry or grape.
Combine all ingredients in bowl. Mix
well. Pour into ice pop molds and
freeze until firm - about 4 hours or
overnight. (If you don't have a mold,
use plastic cups. Place cups in a pan
for easy handling and freeze for
about 1 hour or until starting to get
firm. Insert a stick in centre of each
pop and put back in freezer until
frozen.) To serve, hold a warm hand
around cup for a minute, then push
bottom to release ice pop.
Makes 8 to 12 ice pops.
Banana Wrap
•
•
•
•
8-inch flour tortilla
2 - 3 tbsp. peanut butter
2 - 3 tbsp. jam or jelly
1 small banana, peeled
Place tortilla on a paper
towel, microwave on high for
10 to 20 seconds until tortilla
is soft and warm. Spread with
peanut butter, then top with jelly
or jam. Place banana near the
right edge of the tortilla. Fold up
the bottom 1/4 of tortilla. Bring right
edge over the banana and roll up.
Spiders
• 1 box Ritz crackers
• 1 jar peanut butter (creamy
or crunchy)
• 1/2 c. dried cranberries,
dried blueberries, or raisins
• 1 bag thin pretzel sticks
Fish in a Pond
• 1/2 c. lowfat cream cheese or
cheese spread
• Fish-shaped crackers
• 4 celery ribs, stems removed
Scoop the cream cheese into a bowl.
(You can tint the cream cheese with
blue food coloring to make it look
like a pond.) Place the goldfish
crackers in a separate bowl.
Let the kids dip the celery sticks into
the cheese, then into the bowl of
crackers to "catch" a fish.
Serves 2
Spread peanut butter on one side of
a cracker. Top this with another
cracker. Break 4 pretzel sticks in half.
Stick the pretzel sticks into the
peanut butter on both sides of the
cracker to form the spider's legs.
Lightly spread the top of the cracker
with peanut butter and place the
dried cranberries to form the spider's
eyes. Serves 6
Don't Battle Over Food
It's easy for food to become a source of conflict. Well-intentioned parents
might find themselves bargaining or bribing kids so they eat the healthy food in
front of them. A better strategy is to give kids some control, but to also limit the
kind of foods available at home.
Kids should decide if they're hungry, what they will eat from the foods
served, and when they're full. Parents control which foods are available to
the child, both at mealtime and between meals. Here are some
guidelines to follow:
• Establish a predictable schedule of meals and snacks.
Kids like knowing what to expect.
• Don't force kids to clean their plates. Doing so
teaches kids to override feelings of fullness.
• Don't bribe or reward kids with food. Avoid
using dessert as the prize for eating the meal.
• Don't use food as a way of showing
love. When you want to show love, give
them a hug, some of your time, or praise.
Monkey Mix
• 1 c. banana chips
• 1 c. flaked coconut
• 1 c. chocolate chips
• 3 c. Cheerios
Mix all ingredients in a gallon-sized plastic bag.
Fruit Kabobs
• 1 tangerine • 1 apple • 1 banana
• small cluster of grapes
Divide tangerine in sections. Slice apple and banana.
Remove grapes from stem. Arrange fruit on 4 wooden skewers.
Vegetable
Peanut Dip
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1/2 c. natural peanut butter
1/2 c. plain lowfat yogurt
2 tbsp. maple syrup
Raw carrot sticks
Celery stalks
Fruit slices
Bread sticks and pretzel twigs
Blend the peanut butter (at room
temperature), yogurt and maple
syrup together until smooth. Wash,
peel, cut dipping foods. Dip the
prepared foods into the peanut
mixture and enjoy.
Yield: 2 - 6 servings.
Turkey Pockets
• Pillsbury crescent rolls
• 1 1/2 - 2 c. turkey - chopped
• American cheese
Place one crescent roll on cookie
sheet, flat. Put chopped turkey and
1/2 slice of American cheese in
the center, cover with another roll
and seal sides with finger or fork.
Bake at 350° F until golden
brown, about 15 minutes.
Get Kids Involved
Most kids will enjoy making the decision
about what to make for dinner. Talk to them about
making choices and planning a balanced meal.
Some children may even want to help shop for
ingredients and prepare the meal. At the store,
help your child look at food labels to begin
understanding nutritional values.
In the kitchen, select age-appropriate tasks so
your child can play a part without getting injured
or feeling overwhelmed. And at the end of the
meal, don't forget to praise the chef.
School lunches can be another learning
lesson for kids. More importantly, if you can get
them thinking about what they eat for lunch, you
may be able to help them make positive changes.
A good place to start may be at the grocery store,
where you can shop together for healthy,
packable foods.
There's another important reason why kids
should be involved: It can help prepare
them to make good decisions
on their own about the
foods they want to eat.
That's not to say that your
child will suddenly
want a salad instead
of french fries, but
the mealtime habits
you help create now
can lead to a lifetime
of healthier choices.
Reflections of Hope
Often in art, a mirror signifies a source of light or insight into ourselves. In my piece
titled “Reflections”, the silhouettes reflected in the mirror and the stars
above their heads, represent the heroes found in our community
who give us hope. The mirror, whose finial is the
HopeCircle emblem, serves as a reminder to
look within ourselves and to see the
hero that is there.
Sara Howell, 2006
Sara Howell’s
“Reflections of Hope”
was created for ten
community heroes
honored at the 2006
Triumph of the
Human Spirit event.
Triumph of the Human Spirit
honors those who have used
their personal experiences with
catastrophic illness to help others.
For information visit
...NO additional cost
...MORE privacy
...MORE confidentiality
...MORE comfort
...MORE time with family
...HIGHER level of safety
...LESS risk of infection
Let’s face it, sharing a hospital room with a complete
stranger is no fun. That’s why NEA Medical Center has
converted to all private rooms - the first in Northeast
Arkansas. NEA Medical Center provides healthcare
that goes beyond medical technology, we
understand and respect your need for safety,
comfort and privacy. Feel better about
being in a hospital and feel at home…
at NEA Medical Center.
LEADING EDGE HEALTHCARE
870-972-7000

obesity - NEA Health - A Northeast Arkansas Community Service

Transcription

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