Spring - Western Pennsylvania Guide to Good Health

Transcription

Visit us online at www.guidetogoodhealth.com
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Health News You and Your Family Can Use to Achieve Optimal Health
ORAL
CANCER –
Have You
Been
Screened?
Treating
Chronic
Pain
New Advances in
Stroke Treatment
New
Findings on
Insomnia
Jennifer
Antkowiak Offers
Caregivers Tips
to Keep Healthy
CHILDREN’S HEALTH page 18 • DENTAL HEALTH: Finally, Dentures That Stay Put
EYE CARE page 24 • REHABILITATION page 28 • HEALTHY AGING page 32
SM
page 26
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
At A Crossroads
W
hile so many politicians and pundits debate the potential damaging impact of illegal immigration and terrorists around the globe plotting our demise, the reality
might be that soon it just won’t matter. For by the time the enemies of our country succeed in storming our gates with the intent of either
drastically changing or destroying our way of life, they just might find little
left of the America they thought they hated.
We would have already done the dirty work for them, allowing the foundations of our culture to be eroded from within.
Consider the news from just a “typical” week in America: students at one
local school are accused of compiling a Murder List while, at another, teens
brazenly assault their teacher. Reports from across the country include
accounts of gangs shooting out their differences on residential streets, while
the incidence of STDs in young girls hits a new high. Impressionable youngsters continue to play violent video games and listen to music with graphic
and suggestive lyrics and, in Florida, eight more teens make national headlines for beating a cheerleader so they could show the video on You Tube.
Yet, to quote Barry McGuire, “You tell me, over and over again, my friend,
you don’t believe we’re on the eve of destruction.”
Such reports used to shock and disturb us. Now they wind through a brief
news cycle until something more interesting—like what party Paris Hilton
attended recently—knocks it off the front page.
We are a culture, and a nation, in deep trouble, and the roots of this dilemma have wrapped themselves around our children. It’s as if a force bigger than
ourselves has permeated our families, our communities, and our schools.
And it is not a force for good.
Perhaps scariest of all, nobody seems to know how to reverse this trend in
a meaningful enough way. Efforts are being made. Locally, for example,
Peters Township has a community-based character building initiative with
the school district as its centerpiece called Character Counts! (PTCC). PTCC
is a collaboration of many community groups including the Chamber of
Commerce, municipal government, Rotary, Ministerium, and PTAs.
2 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Reportedly, this initiative has inspired inspirational and educational programs in the community, as well as philosophical
changes.
Will such efforts make a difference in the long run? I have
no way of knowing.
Perhaps the most exasperating aspect to this problem is that we have
brought it on ourselves. I have yet to meet a child who doesn’t start out excited about life and eager to please those important grown ups in their lives. But
somewhere along the way, they learn to be selfish, antisocial, violent, and
ultimately self-destructive.
We adults give lip service to the idea that children are our future, yet we
invest more time in our material possessions than we do in their development. We worry about how a recession could impact our retirement, but we
ignore the devastating effects on our society of a generation lost to apathy
and indifference.
Perhaps worst of all, many parents from our generation who live their lives
based on the values bestowed on them through parents and religious instruction for some inexplicable reason hesitate to give their children that same gift
of faith and character development. Little wonder, then, we are raising a new
generation of citizens awash in narcissism and egocentricism, who lack simple respect and civility.
It’s as if we’ve opted to sacrifice what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. called the
content of character at the twin altars of celebrity status and athletic prowess.
I don’t have an answer; wish I did. But perhaps at the very least, we parents, educators, community and government leaders, and members of the
media can continue to discuss this issue with our young people.
Together, perhaps we can find some answers. Maybe just the act of showing the younger generation that someone really does care would be a major
step in the right direction.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Nancy Lammie
You can reach Nancy Lammie at (412) 835-5796
or e-mail [email protected].
Spring 2008
Jennifer Antkowiak Offers Caregivers
Six Easy Steps to Keep Healthy
SIX STEPS TO A HEALTHIER YOU
by April Terreri
C
aregivers today in the U.S.
number about 50 million.
A stressed healthcare system and shorter hospital stays
mean family caregivers are
expected to do what healthcare
professionals once did – and they
are expected to do this without
the training. While the act of caring for the health of your family
member can give you a good feeling, the truth is you could be forgetting about your own health,
putting yourself at risk for a
number of serious diseases.
Jennifer Antkowiak knows a
bit about this syndrome, having
cared for her mother, mother-inlaw, and father-in-law at different
points in time. The TV star and
mother of five children regularly
speaks throughout the region on
this and other critically important topics ensuring good physical and mental health. “People
need to know that being a caregiver puts you at increased risk
for physical and mental diseases,” she says. These include
stress, colds and flu, heart problems, diabetes, cancer, and
depression.
Whether you are caring for
someone requiring short-term
rehabilitation medical care or
long-term critical medical care,
you are investing a lot of effort
and energy into care giving. But
caregivers often put last caring
for their own health and wellbeing. “People need to understand that taking the time to care
for themselves is not a selfish
thing, and they need to do this or
they will not have the energy
they need to care for everyone
and everything they need to during these times.”
ANTKOWIAK SUGGESTS THE FOLLOWING EASY
AND EFFECTIVE 10-MINUTE ACTIVITIES THAT FIT
EASILY INTO ANY BUSY SCHEDULE.
1. EXERCISE
We need a minimum of 30 minutes a day of exercise
to keep our bodies and minds healthy, Antkowiak says.
“This doesn’t mean it has to be high intensity or all in
one chunk of time. It can be done in 10-minute chunks
throughout the day. For instance, a few minutes of
walking or walking in place will get your circulation
going, boosting your metabolism and releasing endorphins to your brain to make you feel better. Soon you
and others will notice the results and this will feed into
your self-esteem.”
2. DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE!
Being rushed and stressed during our busy days
means we overlook something as fundamental as our
own breathing patterns, which are usually shallow. This
can deprive our bodies of oxygen and can hinder the
elimination of carbon dioxide, resulting in a feeling of
sluggishness in our brains and bodies. When you are
ready to focus on deep breathing, Antkowiak suggests
not doing too much too fast. “Your goal should be to
gradually increase your lung capacity. Pay special attention to your form when working on deep breathing.
Taking a deep breath should not make your shoulders
go up, or your back arch, or your chest go out. Practice
focusing on breathing from the stomach, keeping your
shoulders and chest still. First concentrate on breathing
in for a count of four, holding that breath while you
count to two or three, then blowing it out for another
count of four. The exhale is just as important as the
inhale. Increase counts for each step as you are able. But
remember not to do too much too fast.
3. POSITIVE VISUALIZATION
This activity requires mental strength, says
Antkowiak. “When we are caring for someone we love
who is sick and suffering it is depressing. We are with
them as they go in and out of hospitals and we see them
and others in the hospital in painful and debilitating
conditions. This can wear on your mind, trapping you
into being unable to see anything positive in your life. I
Pictured:
Jennifer, her
husband
and five
children
like to suggest choosing one thing on your body that is
working – like your little finger – and celebrate the little things that are working.”
To enhance this activity use the breathing exercises
and close your eyes, suggests Antkowiak.
“Psychologists say if you put your fingertips together, it
helps to connect your left and right brain, thereby
bringing instant balance to you. If you are having a day
where things seem very negative and out of control –
and you can’t find focus – find a quiet place to just sit
for a moment and touch your fingertips together, close
your eyes and think of something positive.”
Antkowiak admits this can be difficult and that you
might have to ‘fake this’ at first because of the degree of
your stress. “But remember that we do have the ability
to recondition our brains and turn things around into a
positive light. But it takes mental focus.”
4. UP-TO-DATE IMMUNIZATIONS
Make sure you get your annual physical and flu shot.
Renew your tetanus booster every 10 years. Get the recommended screenings that relate to your age and to
your family health history. Tell your doctor you are a
caregiver to alert him or her to the risk factors that
should be monitored. If you feel depressed or you are
having a hard time getting out of bed, tell your doctor.
If you don’t enjoy things that used to give you joy, or if
you begin to exhibit behaviors uncommon to you – like
being late or forgetting things – make sure to tell your
doctor.
5. PRAYER
If you believe there is something bigger than you that
is protecting you and guiding you, it offers a tremendous amount of support, says Antkowiak.
6. CREATE YOUR OWN NETWORK OF SUPPORT
Find a person or persons to whom you can let out
your frustrations, fears, and joys, suggests Antkowiak.
“People commonly feel they are not doing things right
when they are caregivers. I don’t have a medical degree,
and neither do so many caregivers out there. But that
doesn’t matter. What really matters is that you are holding the hand of your loved one and you are caring about
them and you are there for them as they go through this
very scary time.”
Antkowiak is currently finishing a book entitled ‘How
to Take Care of Yourself While You are Taking Care of
Others.’ Check for information updates on the book’s
availability at www.jennifertvshow.com.
Care giving is really the domain of most of us, says
Antkowiak. “Although I am a mother of five healthy
children, I still consider myself a caregiver.” By caring
first for our own physical and mental health, we will
have the strength we need to be able to offer the quality
of care we want to give to those who really need us.
Come and meet Jennifer Antkowiak
at the LIFExpo May 1-4 at Heinz Field
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 3
Making Good
Health a
‘Family
Thing’
TRYING
TO QUIT? We Can Help
By Cindy Thomas
I
f your new year’s resolution was to quit smoking and you are struggling,
don’t despair. It can take as many as 5 to 7 quit attempts before you quit
for good. This is because the nicotine in tobacco is highly addictive and
your brain thinks that it needs it. The good news is, if you have quit before,
even for one day, you can do it again and you can be successful.
Many smokers use cigarettes to help cope with stress in their day to day
life. If you’re one of them, you’ll need to learn new ways to get through
stressful times after you quit. Nicotine is actually a stimulant that causes
your heart to beat faster and your blood pressure to go up, so smoking may
actually make you feel more stressed. Craving nicotine causes stress, so
when you smoke the craving stops and you feel more relaxed. Identifying
the ways smoking helped you cope with stress can let you replace smoking
with other healthier ways of coping.
If you use smoking as a way of taking a work break – go for a walk instead.
If smoking made you feel calmer - try some deep breathing or other relaxation techniques, in the
evening take a long, hot
For many people,
bath. Spend time each day
joining a class or getting phone
with activities you enjoy,
counseling, along with NRT or
maybe start a new hobby.
Eat well and get plenty of other medicines is the most effective way
rest, you’ll be better able to to quit. For information about free quit
handle the stress.
smoking classes contact Tobacco Free
Cindy Thomas is the Allegheny at 412-322-8321, visit
Executive Director of Tobacco www.tobaccofreeallegheny.org, or call
Free Allegheny.
1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)
>
By Diana Fletcher
W
hat if everyone in your family was working toward the same goal
of living in a healthier way? And what if it wasn’t difficult! We
know that sharing any load makes it easier to carry. How about
sharing the load with other family members?
SEVEN STEPS TO MAKE BEING HEALTHY A FAMILY GOAL:
1) Tell your family you want to make health a priority and you want it to
be something you do together. It may not be easy, but find a half hour when
everyone can be together. (Stay focused and positive, even though there may
be some whining and/or negativity at first.)
2) Explain your thoughts on good health without making it too long and
drawn out. Emphasize the benefits of good health to them: fewer colds,
fewer stomach aches and more energy. Encourage conversation and ideas.
Ask your children and spouse or partner what being healthy means to them.
Children may surprise you with what they already know.
3) Make lists of healthy activities, healthy foods and their opposites.
(Unhealthy activities and unhealthy foods.)
4) Pick two things to change: one for fitness and one for nutrition
(Examples: During the upcoming week, each person will eat 3 pieces of fruit
and everyone will watch an hour less of television. Or the whole family will
eliminate potato chips and go for a walk together on Saturday morning.)
5) Plan a weekly meeting. Make this important. Don’t eliminate this meeting when there is a time crunch. Put the meeting and the activity
plan on the calendar, just as you would a doctor or dentist appt. If the group
is losing enthusiasm, a wellness coach can help.
6) Each week, try something new, gradually eliminating unhealthy
behavior and substituting healthy behavior instead.
7) Keep talking and exchanging ideas. Perhaps your teen would like to
start learning more about cooking. Maybe younger children can be involved
in making the grocery list. When children are
involved in the shopping and cooking process, they
are more likely to try new foods and experiment
with different fruits and vegetables.
Share the load and explore new ideas, and you
can make the “Health Thing” a “Family Thing.”
Diana Fletcher is a TotalHealth Coach and loves
helping both families and individuals to live healthy
lives without adding stress. You don’t need to do
more—you just need to do “smart.”
>
4 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
To get more health tips, sign up for her FREE monthly e-newsletter
at www.dianafletcher.com. Contact Diana at (724) 733-7562 or
[email protected].
Spring 2008
New Findings About Insomnia
and Narcolepsy
By Lois Thomson
S
LEEP APNEA, A HOT TOPIC
THESE DAYS, IS A DISORDER
THAT CAUSES SUFFERERS
TO HAVE THEIR SLEEP INTERRUPTED UP TO HUNDREDS OF
TIMES DURING THE NIGHT.
Misty Welch said this is tracked by
an AHI, or Apnea Hypopnea Index.
"That (determines) how many
times on average you stop breathing during the night," she said. "An
apnea is a true cessation of air. An
hypopnea is a partial cessation, but
your oxygen level still drops."
Sleep apnea could affect up to 43
million Americans, even though 80
percent haven't been diagnosed;
but it could be even more far reaching, according to Welch, director of
patient care for Center Pointe Sleep
Associates LLC. "Obstructive sleep
apnea is very common, and we're
finding that it is the underlying
cause for many other sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy and
insomnia.
"For example, we're finding that
people aren't necessarily suffering
from insomnia. They can't sleep
because they're having apneas or
hypopneas, and their body keeps
waking itself up to breathe. We've
seen severe cases where people do
this 500 times in a night, and
instead of sleeping through this,
your body's natural reaction is, 'Oh
my goodness, we're not breathing,
>
this isn't right.' So you wake yourself up."
Likewise, Welch said studies
show that narcolepsy patients can't
get to the depths of sleep they need.
"Their body does not allow itself to
go into REM – the rapid eye movement stage – which is your deepest
state of sleep. Your body isn't going
to allow itself to go that deep into a
sleep because it wants to make sure
it can wake itself back up if it needs
to. So that's why people are suffering during the day with this."
Welch emphasized that there are
patients with true insomnia and
true narcolepsy, but pointed out,
"They're finding that usually eight
out of 10 times, sleep apnea is the
underlying cause."
The most common treatment for
sleep apnea is CPAP – Continuous
Positive Airway Pressure – a mask
that covers the mouth and nose,
and helps to keeps the airway open.
Welch said that once people have
been using it for a few months,
often they are fine.
Welch said Center Pointe Sleep is
able to diagnose almost any type of
sleeping disorder, but primarily
focuses on sleep apnea. Along with
being director of patient care, she is
a sleep technician and has performed both daytime and nighttime
studies. "We're always here to
answer any questions or helps
patients in any way," she said. "The
key is education."
For more information on sleep disorders, or to schedule
an appointment, call 1-800-249-1445 or
visit www.centerpointesleep.com.
COMING IN JULY:
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: A COMMUNITY GUIDE TO
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES. Local support groups and organizations,
research centers, schools and resources that exist within our community for
families and individuals faced with a health issue.
WOMEN’S HEALTH with a special emphasis on Women’s Health Over 40.
ORTHOPEDIC ADVANCES
SUMMER FITNESS • HEALTHY EATING
HEALTHY AGING • BOOMER/SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS
For advertising opportunities, call (412) 835-5796 or
[email protected]
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 5
The Painful Rise
in Prescription
Drug Abuse
Living to 100
By Dr.Tyson Swigart
O
n April 13th, 2008, 101 year-old, Buster Martin of the United
Kingdom, attempted to become the oldest person in history to complete a marathon. This extraordinary individual has become a
celebrity in the United Kingdom due to his vibrant personality and amazing
longevity. The father of 17 children, he returned to work at the age of 99 due
to “boredom” and once went 80 years of work without taking a sick day. At
the age of 100, he made the news fighting off 3 assailants utilizing kung fu
kicks. When asked, Buster Martin attributes some of his longevity to his continuing to remain active and stimulated. Mr. Martin is a former fitness
instructor and martial arts student. Despite being a daily drinker and smoker, he has maintained a healthy weight thru moderation. He has had numerous career changes and remained mentally challenged throughout his life.
Mr. Martin is a living example that the secret of longevity is a combination
of nurturing not just the body, but challenging the mind as well.
Three common traits exist in almost all centenarians.
1.) 100 year-old individuals are not overweight. Recent research has
strongly linked low calorie, high protein diets to improved longevity. The latest demographic epidemiologic evidence shows that Japan has the highest
percentage of centenarians. There are 28,000 people in Japan that are 100
years-old or older. Not coincidently, the typical Japanese diet is lower in
calories and higher in lean protein consumption. Japanese obesity rates are
among the lowest in the world.
2.) 100 year-old individuals have a history of exercise. Exercise is preventative and/or therapeutic for medical conditions ranging from heart disease to back pain. Exercise also supports the immune system and prevents
depression. Individuals with a history of exercise are less likely to develop
osteoporosis. It is no coincidence that nearly all centenarians have a long
history of regular physical activity.
3.) 100 year-old individuals are mentally stimulated. A high percentage
of 100 year-old individuals maintain full or part-time jobs. Buster Martin
returned to work at the age of 99 in order to keep his mind stimulated. This
type of story is common among the very old. Work provides a sense of purpose and allows for interaction with younger individuals. In addition,
research is showing that the brain, like muscle, declines quickly when it
doesn’t receive stimulation.
Studying the common characteristics of the very old demonstrates that
longevity is much more than luck and good genetics. As our understanding
of aging continues to grow, the percentage of individuals who will live to advanced ages will increase
steadily. The key is nurturing both the mind and
body throughout the entire lifetime.
Dr. Tyson Swigart is founder and owner of
Southpointe Chiropractic and Fitness.
>
By Dr. Neil Capretto
T
he families and friends of Heath Ledger
and Anna Nicole Smith share a common
pain that unfortunately has become a fre“one in five
quent occurrence in this country: death of a
college
loved one from a prescription drug overdose.
students
The pain also hits closer to home as recent
autopsy reports revealed that approximately 75
are taking
percent of the 252 drug related deaths in
painkillers
Allegheny County for 2006 involved use of a
prescription drug. Sadly, this is just a small and prescripsampling of the thousands of lives that have tion drugs to
been lost to prescription drugs over the years.
get high while
A national survey conducted by the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services 15 percent of
Administration (SAMSHA), discovered that 4.7
high school
million of Americans used prescription drugs
seniors
have
for non-medical purposes. In March of 1999,
admitted to
Gateway Rehab saw its first patient addicted to
the pain relieving narcotic, Oxycontin. As of
taking these
2008, Gateway has treated more than 2,000
drugs for
people with Oxycontin addictions.
non-medical
Prescription drug abuse often starts in the
teenage years. One in five college students are
purposes.”
taking painkillers and prescription drugs to get
-Dr. Neil Capretto
high while 15 percent of high school seniors
have admitted to taking these drugs for nonmedical purposes. According to a Partnership Attitude Tracking Study by the
Partnership for a Drug-Free America, the number one reason teenagers
abuse prescription drugs is because they are easy to get from their parents’
medicine cabinets. Other reasons range from the fact that they are available
everywhere and easy to purchase over the internet, to “parents not caring as
much if you get caught.”
Because prescription drugs can be obtained
legally, there is a misconception that these drugs are
“safer” and “less shameful” to use. Yet, people who
abuse medications can become addicted just as easily as if they were taking street drugs – and the
results can be just as deadly. It’s important we break
down the lack of awareness, denial, and stigma that
all play a role in people not getting the treatment
they need.
Dr. Neil Capretto is Medical Director
of Gateway Rehabilitation Center.
For more information, call Gateway Rehabilitation Center
at (412) 766-8700 or (800) 472-1177 or
visit the web site www.gatewayrehab.org.
>
For more information, you can reach
Dr. Tyson Swigart at (724) 873-0700.
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6 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Mt. Lebanon • Pittsburgh • Bellevue • Hermitage
Spring 2008
BONE AND JOINT HEALTH SERIES
Explore Latest FACTS (and Fiction) in
Non-Operative and Operative Treatments
of Hip, Knee and Back Arthritis
By Paula Deasy
A
RTHRITIS IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF
DISABILITY IN THE U.S; 42.7 MILLION
AMERICANS HAVE ARTHRITIS AND
MORE THAN A THIRD REPORT THAT ARTHRITIS PAIN LIMITS THEIR DAILY ACTIVITIES. For
many, anxiety or fear of the unknown prevents
them from seeking help that could improve their
quality of life.
On Saturday. June 21, Dr. Anthony M. DiGioia,
Dr. Anthony M.
III, a leader in Patient and Family Centered Care
DiGioia, III
and one of the pioneers of less invasive and computer assisted orthopaedic surgery, will chair an
event for patients in the Bone and Joint Health Series entitled Let Your
Journey to Wellness Begin! Boomeritis: Help for those Aching Hips, Knees and
Back. The Bone and Joint Health Series presents four events each year. The
upcoming program on June 21 will be held at the CCAC Boyce Campus and
is open to the public and free of charge!
“In this age of having massive amounts of information available at one’s
fingertips, patients and families can have a hard time sorting through it all,”
said Dr. DiGioia, a practicing orthopaedic surgeon at Renaissance
Orthopaedics and founder of The Orthopaedic Program at Magee-Womens
Hospital of UPMC.
“The program on June 21st is designed for patients and their families who
have an interest in learning more about those aching hips, knees and back,”
DiGioia explained. “The goal is help people sort out fact from fiction and let
them hear directly from the experts about the non-operative as well as the
operative treatments. Our hope is that these events will improve communication and knowledge and reduce anxiety so that patients can make
informed choices regarding treatment and maintenance of health.”
A keynote presentation entitled “Patient and Family Centered Care:
Reducing Anxiety and Providing Exceptional Care Experiences and
Outcomes” will be given by Dr. DiGioia. He will be joined by orthopaedic
and spine surgeons, a rheumatologist and a physical therapist to discuss the
evaluation, diagnosis, treatments and exercise possibilities for those suffering from hip, knee and back pain. In addition there will be an “Ask the
Doctor” panel discussion as part of the program.
Another resource for those seeking help for aching bones and joints is the
blog at www.amd3.org/ROblog. “The site was created on the advice of our
Patient and Family Advisory Council and in response to all of the information about bone and joint health, “ DiGioia continued. “We have a ‘Fact &
Fiction’ column that can help patients obtain current and accurate information, and the blog site enables people to learn from patients’ stories and to
ask questions of patients and families living through similar experiences.”
For more information or to register for the June 21st event, visit
www.boneandjointhealth.org. For questions, call 412-683-3260
or send an email to [email protected].
>
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Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Harvard Educated - UCLA Trained
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724-941-8838
www.amypare.com
www.pittsburghplasticsurgery.net
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 7
Family Hospice and Palliative Care
Reaching Out to Western Pennsylvanians
By Vanessa Orr
I
n the last year, Family Hospice and Palliative
Care provided services to more than 3,000
patients and their families in 11 counties in western Pennsylvania. And while the use of hospice services continues to increase on a national level, there
are still many people who are not aware of the benefits of hospice, and how it can provide a muchneeded level of care to those dealing with a life-limiting illness.
“One of the goals of Family Hospice and Palliative
In 2007, Family Hospice and Palliative Care
Care is to provide more outreach to the people of
western Pennsylvania,” explained President Rafael
opened The Center for Compassionate Care
Sciullo. “This year we want to focus on education—
in Mt. Lebanon.
for the community, for our employees and for health
care professionals.”
“Hospice
Now in the midst of a three-year strategic planshould never
ning process, Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s
be about one
board and management team are working with consultants to determine what the best hospice pracprogram meettices are nationally, and how they can be assimilated
ing everyone’s
here to meet the needs and demographics of western
needs; we
Pennsylvania patients. “We are finding that the individuals who are accessing hospice care are changneed to look
ing,” explained Sciullo. “In the 1990s, we treated a
at each
lot of patients with cancer; now we are seeing more
individual,
end-stage cardiac patients and dementia patients.
“Hospice needs to focus on what the needs of
and build a program around
these individuals are, which goes back to our roots as
that person.” -Rafael Sciullo
a community-based, independent, not-for-profit
provider,” he added. “Hospice should never be about
one program meeting everyone’s needs; we need to that deal with aspects of the dying experience,
look at each individual, and build a program around which will be followed by a panel discussion.
Seminars will be held in the fall for professional
that person.”
In 2007, Family Hospice and Palliative Care health care workers, and Family Hospice and
opened The Center for Compassionate Care in Mt. Palliative Care’s patients’ caregivers will be able to
Lebanon in order to meet these needs, as well as to attend training classes to help them deal with their
provide education to the community. The Center’s role in the dying process.
“We are continuing to partner with the University
12-bed inpatient unit, opened in November of last
year, now gives hospice patients a short-term place to of Pittsburgh’s Institute to Enhance Palliative Care to
stay for pain and symptom management in addition provide better care for hospice patients,” Sciullo
to the Center’s eight-bed inpatient unit at Family added. “One of our current projects is studying pain
management for patients in nursHospice Manor in Bellevue.
ing facilities, and how we can best
“The Center also gives us
formulate policies and procedures
a place to house our educathat will ease the dying experition and research compoence.”
nent,” added Sciullo. “Here,
Family Hospice and Palliative
our Education Advisory
Care also plans to focus on reachCouncil, which is coming out to minorities this year, as
posed of leaders from organational statistics show that
nization such as the
minorities tend to use hospice less
Allegheny County Medical
than other groups of people. “We
Society, Hospice & Pallbelieve that the public at large
iative Nurses Association
needs more education, and that we
and the Institute to Enneed to focus on what the specific
hance Palliative Care, work
needs of this group might be,” said
to provide outreach to the
For more information on
Sciullo. “We want to determine
community.”
Family Hospice and Palliative
what is missing in the health care
Current projects include
Care, call (412) 572-8800 or
continuum for them and what role
a film series, in which audivisit www.familyhospice.com.
we can play in providing it.”
ences will see current films
>
8 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
CT technologist Penny
Messer,
RT(R)(CT)
operates the
new 16-slice
CT scanner
recently
added to
Canonsburg
General
Hospital's
growing complement of
state-of-theart diagnostic
equipment.
MEDICAL TESTS
16-Slice CT Scanner
Perfect Fit For CGH's Needs
By Lois Thomson
Y
ou can hear the excitement in Marilyn Kovach's voice as she
talks about Canonsburg General Hospital's latest equipment
acquisition: "We'll be able to scan every area of the body, but
more importantly, to scan it very quickly. With one breath hold, we can
scan the entire abdomen. The patient is in and out very quickly. It's
very comfortable, and the images are beautiful. This will cover all of
Canonsburg Hospital's needs.”
Kovach, Director of Medical Imaging Services and
Cardiology at CGH, was talking about the new 16-slice
G.E. Brightspeed Elite CT scanner the hospital recently
purchased. She said previously the hospital had a 4-slice
scanner. (It's important to realize that a slice does not
refer to an actual cut, but is a function of the scanner.)
Kovach explained the difference in the upgrade:
"When we talk about slice – we slice through the
body with radiation and collect data. Whether we're
doing a millimeter slice or a centimeter slice, we collect
the data in that slice. So the thinner the slice, the more
detail you get. There are just so many benefits to this –
we get faster scanning and reconstruction times, and
You’ll also find a quality medical team led by
For years, residents of Washington and
outstanding image quality, along with the ability to do
Allegheny General specialists board-certified
southern Allegheny counties have benefited
fluoroscopic imaging right in the CT scanner. Fluoro is
in emergency medicine.
from the partnership between Canonsburg
a 'motion picture' of the body and is usually seen in a
General and Allegheny General hospitals.
Continuing the connection, the hospital now
radiology room. Our new CT scanner has fluoroscopic
serves as a base for AGH’s renowned LifeFlight
And now the connection for advanced
capabilities so interventional procedures can be perhelicopter, giving residents of our region
emergency care just got closer.
formed within the CT department." Kovach said that
immediate access to this life-saving medical
the images are transmitted to a monitor in the radioloCanonsburg General Hospital’s new state-oftransport system.
gist's office, where everything can be reviewed digitally
the-art Emergency Department features
and read by the radioloTreatment by the finest in emergency physicians
18 large, private treatment rooms, cutting-edge
gist.
and nurses. Ready access to the leader in
digital X-ray equipment within the department
"We'll be
She added that the
medical helicopters. The latest technology
itself, and expanded, comfortable family
able to scan
new scanner enables the
coupled with old-fashioned compassion and
waiting areas.
caring. For the best in emergency medicine,
every area of hospital to offer specialWe have the latest in computerized patient
ties it couldn't before.
the connection just got closer. The Emergency
the body, but "Such as cardiac studtracking and information systems, and our
Department at Canonsburg General Hospital.
emergency patients are immediately taken
more impories," she said. "We didn't
to an examination room where registration
tantly, to scan do them before in the CT
and initial assessment are completed at the
department, but we can
it very quickly. do them now. For cardiac
bedside.
With one
CT, we'll be able to do
gated acquisitions of the
breath hold,
heart, snapshots of the
we can scan
heart. For coronary
the entire
artery calcifications, we'll
be able to image retroabdomen.”
Call 1-877-284-2000
spectively and perspecfor more information
-Marilyn Kovach
tively.
www.wpahs.org
"We can perform arterial runoffs, checking the arteries in the legs as we scan
the entire length of the leg during the runoff. We hope
to do many interventional procedures in CT with this
new scanner."
Kovach reiterated that the 16-slice scanner is exactly
what Canonsburg General Hospital needs. "The industry has CT scanners up to 128 slices, but that would be
overkill because we don't do open-heart surgery here.
You never over-buy (equipment) because you're wasting money that hospitals don't have. You always buy
exactly what your needs require to provide the best possible care to our patients, and that’s what I did."
The Connection
Just Got Closer
Advanced Emergency Care
at Canonsburg General Hospital
>
Spring 2008
For more information, visit
www.wpahs.org or call
(724) 745-6100.
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 9
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Varicose Vein Treatment Gets
More and More Simple
By Lois Thomson
D
r. Gennady Geskin, a cardiovascular specialist who is
part of Jefferson Cardiology
Association, is an authority on varicose veins. He is familiar with the
different procedures to care for
them, such as EVLT (the
Endovenous Laser Treatments) and
phlebectomies. But in speaking
about it, he reduces the message to
simple terms:
"I think the major points for the
patients is that what we offer now
(in the way of surgery) is all done in
the outpatient setting in the office
within two hours with just local
anesthesia. There's very little pain
involved, no real recovery time."
He makes it sound so simple, and
really, it is. And that's good news
considering that varicose veins
affect 50 to 55 percent of women,
and 40 to 45 percent of men, and
nearly all of them
need some type of
treatment. "The
official
recommendation is that
you don't do surgery if you don't
have symptoms," Dr. Geskin said,
"but 99 percent of the patients have
symptoms."
Those symptoms
include pain, fatigue, and swelling
They’ll look at your legs
for a whole new reason
Eliminate varicose veins with EVLT®
If you look at your legs and just see varicose veins, we can help. Now you
can show immediate improvement on your legs by eliminating varicose
veins with EVLT®. This 45-minute laser procedure requires no general
anesthesia or hospitalization, meaning no painful surgery or downtime.
Deciding to get the safe and effective EVLT® is a choice everyone will notice.
•
•
•
•
•
45-minute procedure
No scarring
No general anesthesia or hospitalization
Immediate return to your daily routine
Covered by most insurance carriers
www.jeffersoncardiology.com
Gennady Geskin, MD, FACC
Board Certified in Vascular and
Endovascular Medicine
Jefferson Cardiology Association
Suite 403, 575 Coal Valley Road
Jefferson Regional Medical Center Medical Office Building
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
(412) 469-1500
10 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
in the legs.
Dr. Geskin said varicose veins are
"those bulging veins you see on the
surface of the skin. They measure
from 2 or 3 mm up to 20 mm in
diameter. What varicose veins represent are the branches of some
deeper, leaky veins that you don't
see. Usually what happens is that
one of the deeper veins inside is
leaking and they are like Christmas
trees. So if the trunk leaks, the
branches get bigger and bigger, and
that's what you see."
Dr. Geskin talked about two
types of procedures used to treat the
veins. "One is when we attack this
leaky inside vein with the laser. It's
done under local anesthesia in the
office, and we close it with a laser.
The patient walks in, walks out. It
usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and
there is very little discomfort
involved.
"We also the offer phlebectomy,
where we actually take the branches out. We use numbing medicine,
local anesthesia only. On the top of
the bulging parts we make a needle
hole, and we use very small hooks
to pull those veins out. Again, the
only thing patients feel is the burning from the local anesthesia; they
don't feel the rest of the procedure.
The phlebectomy usually takes an
additional hour."
He said with the laser procedure,
patients could return to work the
same day. With a phlebectomy,
patients are urged to elevate their
legs for a couple of days. Simple?
Yes.
>
Before EVLT®
After EVLT®
Diomed and EVLT are registered trademarks of DIOMED, Inc.
VeinViewer is a trademark of Luminetx. pp/1312 Issue 1
Dr. Geskin's practice,
Jefferson Cardiology
Association, is located in
the medical building
adjacent to Jefferson Hospital.
For more information call
(412) 469-1500 or visit the web
site www.jeffersoncardiology.com
Photos courtesy of Robert Min MD, Cornell Vascular, New York.
Subscribe online at
or go to page 42 for
subscription form.
Spring 2008
PLASTIC SURGERY: Myths vs. Reality
By Vanessa Orr
A
s plastic surgery continues to gain in popularity, more and more people are undergoing procedures, whether for aesthetic or medical reasons. And while there are many treatments that can help a person
look or feel better, it’s important that anyone considering plastic surgery do
the research first.
“You want to have a procedure done once, and have it done well,”
explained board-certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Amelia Paré. “The decision to
undergo plastic surgery shouldn’t be taken lightly – you want a doctor that
you feel comfortable with and who feels comfortable with you. You need to
look at it as a surgery – not just a little lift that you get done at lunchtime.”
According to Dr. Paré, it is sometimes hard to dispel the myths surrounding plastic surgery or alternative treatments. Consider the following:
FACE CREAMS
“Most face creams don’t work,” said Dr. Paré. “If they did, no one would
have wrinkles or blemishes. And while you may spend anywhere from $5 to
$100 on a face cream, they all have similar ingredients. You’re paying for the
marketing. Dr. Paré adds that there have been no new breakthroughs in skin
therapy in years. “The basic tenet is that you have to remove dead skin and
moisturize, and there are numerous ways to do that,” she said. “You can
have the skin burned or peeled or use a cream, but all of these treatments
require compromise, whether that is downtime, expense, or discomfort. You
need to find a treatment that will fit into your lifestyle.”
ALL PLASTIC SURGEONS ARE THE SAME
While there are many doctors who may claim to be plastic or cosmetic
surgeons, there are only 5,000 to 6,000 board-certified plastic surgeons in
the county, some of whom also hold fellowships within different specialties.
“It is important that patients actively ask doctors about the credentials they
hold,” said Dr. Paré. “Ask about where they went to school and did their residencies, and if they have any specialties. Depending on why the person is
there, he or she should also ask how many procedures of that type the doctor has performed.
“When you consider that this is your body, it’s
not unreasonable to ask for a second opinion,” she
added. “Most reputable plastic surgeons will have
no problem with that, and will even provide other
references.”
COSMETIC SURGERY JUST
INVOLVES THE FACE
“We perform cosmetic procedures from head to
For more
toe – anything from fixing misshapen skulls to helpinformation,
ing patients born with no noses or ears, to helping
call Dr.
those who suffer from tightness in the neck,” said Dr.
Paré. “Plastic surgeons also replant arms, legs, fingers Amelia Pare´ at
and toes, fix fractures that have not healed and even (724) 941-8838;
perform gender surgery.” While many people believe www.amypare.com.
that most plastic surgery procedures are cosmetic,
plastic surgeons also restore wall muscles in the abdomen to cover the spinal
cord and help reconstruct patients’ bodies after cancer. “It’s a tremendous
specialty that encompasses so much,” said Dr. Paré. “As much as you can
imagine is involved.”
>
SURGERY DOESN’T CAUSE SCARS AND DOESN’T HURT
“Anytime your skin is cut, you will have a scar,” said Dr. Paré. “But a good
plastic surgeon can put it in a place that’s less noticeable, though doing that
may be more technically difficult. Plastic surgery requires a lot of strategy.”
Because surgery does hurt, it’s important that patients plan for downtime
and recovery time. “Don’t believe it when you hear about lunchtime face
lifts that take an hour,” said Dr. Paré, “unless you actually have a six-hour
lunch.”
What’s most important in any kind of plastic surgery decision is that you
know what to expect of a procedure and that you’ve communicated your
expectations to your surgeon. “You need to consider the benefits and risks
of plastic surgery,” said Dr Paré. “Make sure that you’re comfortable with
your decision.”
Losing Weight is Like Eating Ice Cream
By Dr.Will Clower
“Life is like a box of chocolates,” drawled Forrest Gump.
Metaphors are great. Writers use them all the time because, simply put,
they get your attention and really drive a point home.
That’s because life and a box of chocolates have as much in common as
French Toast for breakfast and a French Toast to your health.
But you know there will be a punch line to connect the dots and relate two
ridiculously unrelated things. So you wait, listening sharply to catch the
thread that makes it make sense.
“You never know what you are going to get.” Aaahhh, riiigghhtt!
The mismatch, mental tension, and surprise resolution slam the point
home. There. That’s the micro-anatomy of our most common literary tool. So
how about a metaphor for eating healthy?
Losing weight is like eating a single scoop death-by-chocolate ice cream
cone. Okay, I nailed the “man, this strains reason” part. Let me explain.
First of all, real connoisseurs know that you must linger over your ice
cream: chasing runners, keeping it off the pavement, and pushing it right to
the bottom of the cone. These are all important factors. It’s a process.
And that’s the point. It just takes time, and when you’re finished with that
ball, you think … perfect!
Now imagine that same single scoop of ice cream, but this time placed in
the deep empty hollow of a cereal bowl. We see it down there, sad and lonely, and invariably decide that it needs 3 more scoop buddies.
That’s because we believe we are getting gypped somehow if our food
doesn’t fill the space.
Now. What does this have to do your dinner tonight? Well, the space you
serve your food in matters. If you put dinner on a gigantic platter, you’ll end
up with helpings 2, 3, and 4 on the plate all at the same time. And if it’s in
front of you … you’re going to eat it.
So a basic message you can try tonight is simply to begin on smaller plates.
This trick exploits one of the bedrock laws of the Universe.
There’s four of them: E=MC2, Finder’s Keeper’s, The Conservation of
Matter and Energy, and the big one – Your Eyes Are Bigger Than Your
Stomach.
Spring 2008
Simply handling this last law prevents the drastic overeating so typical of
American buffet trough-feeders. And, repealing this law of nature doesn’t
require any higher math or even a physics degree.
Take the first step to solving your portion problems by beginning with a
smaller space for your food. Next, eat your food like you eat your ice cream
– a little at a time. Make it last.
Small bites increase the length and pleasure of the meal. When your focus
is more on enjoyment than consumption, that smaller amount becomes …
perfect!
Your calories drop with your portion sizes and you love your food more
– just like lingering over a single scoop death-by-chocolate ice cream cone!
Dr. Will Clower is President of Mediterranean Wellness, a nutrition and
weight management service, which is part of the
Pathways to SmartCare Wellness Program.
>
For more information, call (412) 563-7807,
pathwayswellnessprogram.com/farm_to_table_conference.html
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 11
Rejuvenate
Rejuvenate
INC
RESTORING AND MAINTAINING YOUTH
HEALTH & BEAUTY
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PERMANENT COSMETICS
By Rachel Yakubik-Schinosi
H
Rejuvenatee
offerss thee
followingg
servicess
alll att ann
affordablee
price–
Karen A. Roperti, MD
Paul DiMaio, PA-C
of Greater Pittsburgh OB-GYN
•Permanentt hair
reduction
• Photofacials
• Pigmented
d lesions
• Vascularr lesions
• Acnee treatments
• SkinCeuticals
• Laserr veinn
treatments
• Botox® cosmetic
• Juvedérm™
• Microdermabrasion
• Facials
• Massagee therapy
Call for a free consultation.
South Hills
Cranberry
Smart Health
Outpatient Center
100 Higbee Dr., Suite 107
Bethel Park, PA 15102
300 North Pointe Circle
Suite 103
Seven Fields, PA 16046
412-831-0777
724-776-0777
ave you ever had your makeup professionally applied and loved it,
only to find that once you got home
and tried to duplicate it yourself it looked
totally different? Millions of women struggle everyday to get their eyebrows, eyeliner,
or lips on evenly and perfectly. They spend
a fortune on different pencils, powders, and
lipsticks hoping to find the right color and get something that won’t smudge or look too heavy.
What are permanent cosmetics?
Permanent cosmetics, also known as cosmetic tattooing, are the perfect solution for women off all ages who
want a natural looking enhancement to their eyes, lips,
or eyebrows. Contrary to what most people think, permanent cosmetics (when applied by an experienced
technician) will usually be about forty percent less dramatic than regular cosmetics. The reason is because traditional cosmetics are applied on top of the skin, and
permanent cosmetics are placed into the lower layer of
the skin using a sterile needle.
Who should consider permanent cosmetics?
Anyone with sparse or missing eyebrows would benefit from permanent eyebrow enhancement because it
fills in the bald areas with a choice of hair strokes or
>
solid fill-in.
Eyelashes can be made to appear thicker and
longer by having permanent eyeliner. Another
very popular procedure is lip enhancement,
which can define the lips, add soft color, add
fullness, and even correct uneven lips. Other
people who have it done are those with medical
ailments including
How permanent is permanent?
Technically the pigment is in the skin permanently.
However, over time, the pigment does fade and touchups
are necessary. The length of time between touchups varies
depending on each client. Darker colors (such as black
eyeliner) usually last a little longer than lighter ones (such
as blonde eyebrows). To keep the makeup looking fresh,
most clients come every one to two years for touch ups.
What you need to know first
At this time, permanent cosmetics are not regulated in
the state of Pennsylvania. This means that it is up to the
consumer to research a technician who is experienced and
reputable. Most technicians only complete a 40 hour
course to receive a certificate. When you are shopping for
a technician, be sure to ask how many procedures they
have done and how often the do it. Also, be sure to get references and see before and after photos. Most important,
ask about sanitation procedures. A disposable system is
preferable.
For more information, you can reach Rachel Yakubik-Schinosi at Cosmetic Solutions
by calling (724) 745-7550 or by visiting the web site www.mycosmeticsolutions.com.
The makeover
you never
thought was possible...
12 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
Spring is Ideal Time for Laser Beauty Treatments
By Nancy Kennedy
B
eauty begins with healthy
skin, and everyone wants to
have soft, smooth, radiant
skin. For women of all ages, concerns about the appearance of face
and body skin surface especially as
summer approaches, bringing with
it the warm temperatures, sunshine
and outdoor activities that mean
lighter, skin-baring wardrobes.
If the thought of baring your
body at the beach or tennis court
fills you with dread, think about
this: there are a number of simple, affordable medical and aesthetic treatments available that
can help you repair, enhance
and improve the appearance of
your skin, increasing your confidence and self esteem and
giving you a head start on a
wonderful outdoor season.
At Rejuvenate, a medical aesthetics spa with locations in
Bethel Park and Cranberry,
laser treatments are an effective
way to remove excess body and
facial hair, clear the sun spots
caused by aging and sun exposure, and eliminate spider
veins on the legs and face.
Karen Roperti, M.D., an
obstetrician and gynecologist
who opened the spa within
Greater Pittsburgh OB-GYN,
says that offering therapeutic
beauty treatments is part of her
philosophy of treating the
whole woman.
“Looking your best and feeling good about yourself is part
of being healthy and the
Rejuvenate program is for
everyone. It’s affordable and
effective. Laser treatments, in
the right hands, are very safe
and painless; they use light and
not radiation. There is no
recovery time needed.”
Roperti says that the ideal
time for treatments is now,
before the summer gets underway, because one should have
minimal or no sun exposure
before having a treatment.
“The laser is attracted to pigment, so the time to do it is
before you have been in the
sun.”
Hair removal or reduction is
the most popular pre-summer
treatment, she says, and she
highly recommends photofacials to remove sunspots. “Our
patients love photofacials; they
remove spots on the face,
hands, arms, where the sun
catches up with us.”
Rejuvenate uses intense
pulsed light to provide the
Spring 2008
most effective and comfortable aesthetic
treatments
available.
“Photorejuvenation” is a photofacial process that employs wavelengths of light to clear pigmented
lesions, restoring clarity to skin
with accumulated damage.
Permanent or long term hair
removal is achieved by passing a
laser through the skin into the hair
follicles, interrupting the growth of
>
new hair. It can be used on all types
and colors of hair and offers long
term solution to the problem of
excess hair. Laser vein removal targets spider veins, those superficial
red and blue blood vessels on the
face and legs. The blood vessel
absorbs the light energy from the
laser, causing reabsorption of the
blood and the subsequent collapse
of the vein.
Complimentary consultation is provided so that Rejuvenate
staff can evaluate your needs and discuss your goals with
you. For a free consultation, call (412) 831-0777.
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 13
CHRONIC PAIN
Conservative Treatments, Back Surgery
Show Similar Outcomes in Select Patients
By Vanessa Orr
weeks, and 90 percent of patients
will recover within six weeks. Those
with chronic back pain, however,
might also need to make lifestyle
changes including changing their
diets, quitting smoking and exercising more in order to improve.
“While doctors used to prescribe
bed rest, we now know that this is
not the best way to treat low back
pain,” Dr. Provenzano said.
“Muscles atrophy (weakness),
which makes patients susceptible to
future episodes, so we recommend
that they undergo some form of
physical therapy. Because patients
who are obese and those who
smoke have a higher percentage of
lower back pain, we also suggest
making changes in these areas.”
There are a number of ways that
both acute and chronic back pain
can be treated. Medications such as
muscle relaxants and nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatories can be used for
a short period of time. Older
patients who have not responded to
A
t some point during their
lives, 60 to 80 percent of
American adults will suffer
from acute lower back pain. And
while up to 90 percent of these
patients will recover from their pain
within six weeks, some patients will
develop more debilitating, longerlasting symptoms.
“The number of patients we’re
seeing with chronic lower back pain
who don’t respond to conservative
treatments is increasing,” explained
Dr. David Provenzano, Medical
Director of Ohio Valley General
Hospital’s Pain Treatment Center.
“Once we’ve ruled out more serious
issues like cancer, infection and herniated discs, we work with them to
develop overall health strategies to
help relieve their pain.”
According to Dr. Provenzano, 50
percent of patients with acute back
pain who undergo conservative
treatment will recover within two
For your rehab,why not get the
star treatment?
#####
In a recent independent study
that measured the results of
patient surveys from over
170 hospitals nationwide, the
Physical Therapy Department
at Pittsburgh’s Ohio Valley
General Hospital earned a
prestigious star rating from a
national leader in healthcare
research, Avatar
International.
Your star treatment includes:
■ No Medicare cap. Why? Because we’re a
hospital-based outpatient physical therapy
program. You’re covered as long as
medically necessary.
■ Free parking and free van service to and
from home. (within a 10 mile radius)
■ Two board-certified orthopedic
specialists, plus a certified sports
and conditioning specialist.
■ Our physical therapists will incorporate
Pilates techniques into most programs.
■ State-of-the-art technology.
Our patients benefit from a hospital with a
medical staff that includes the same doctors
as the big city hospitals, and the personalized
attention that only comes from a progressive
community hospital.
“
So if you choose this Hospital to treat your
injury or illness, then also choose to take
advantage of one of
You’ll get the star treatment
the best Physical
Therapy Departments
as advertised. Come here and
in the city.
you’ll get better.
“
PITTSBURGH'S
OHIO VALLEY GENERAL HOSPITAL
Rehabilitation Services
One of the best hospitals in the city isn't in the city.
412-777-6231
Heckel Road • Kennedy Township • McKees Rocks, PA 15136
www.ohiovalleyhospital.org
14 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
other forms of treatment
may be treated with opioid
pain medications. In
younger individuals, doctors try to avoid the utiand leg pain may consider surgical
lization of opioids for prolonged intervention, as well as those who
periods of time. A cornerstone of suffer from lumbar spinal stenosis
treatment should be patient comfort who have not been helped with
to assist the patient with the time medications or epidural steroid
required for the natural healing injections. “At the Pain Clinic, our
processes.
multi-disciplinary pain program is
“A lot is being done with mini- designed to give patients access to
mally invasive injections, such as whatever types of treatment they
epidural steroid injections for herni- need, which may include medicaated discs which help to speed tions, physical therapy, injection
recovery, and joint injections for therapy or referral for surgical interarthritis,” said Dr. Provenzano.
vention individually or in combinaFor patients who do not respond tion,” said Dr. Provenzano. “You
to such treatments, back surgery need to treat patients who suffer
may be recommended, although Dr. from low back pain in a multidisciProvenzano advises that for a plinary approach in order to get the
majority of patients, conservative best outcomes.”
treatments should be considered
By helping patients change their
first. “Unfortunately, between 10 overall health strategies, the Pain
and 40 percent of patients who have Center is also trying to prevent
had back surgery for lower back future back problems from occursymptoms experience persistent or ring. “We promote exercise because
recurrent pain,” he said. “Recent it’s very important to have strong
studies in the Journal of the core musculature in both your
American Medical Association and abdominal muscles and back musthe New England Journal of Medicine cles,” said Dr. Provenzano. “We also
compared patients who had surgery work with patients on cognitive
for herniated discs with those who behavioral therapy in order to help
underwent nonsurgical treatment. them cope with the pain.
Both groups improved substantially
“For example, many patients
over a one- to two-year period.
with chronic back pain are afraid
“A large percentage of patients that everything they do will hurt, so
will get better with conservative they become anxious and frustratcare, and there was no
ed,” he added. “This
difference in outcomes
fear-avoidance behavbetween the two treatior can result in a
ments groups after one
patient heading in a
year in the New England
downward spiral. As
Journal of Medicine study
part of their treatment,
published in 2007,” he
we teach them ways to
added.
deal with the anxiety
Patients who have not
and emotions that they
responded to conservaare feeling so that they
tive treatment and who
can begin to heal.”
still suffer from back
Dr. David Provenzano
>
For more information on Ohio Valley General Hospital’s
Pain Treatment Center, call (412) 777-6400 or visit the
web site www.ohiovalleyhospital.org/pain/.
Looking for past issues
of the Guide To Good Health?
Visit our Web site
Also check out our Calendar online!
Spring 2008
Chronic Pain Treatments a
Different Kind of 'Fun'
By Lois Thomson
▼
S
ome people might like to watch a Steeler game or go to the theater for
fun. But Dr. Michael Fussell has a different idea of fun. That's not to
say he wouldn't enjoy those activities. But when it comes to his area of
practice, he thinks it's kind of fun doing injections and implanting spinal
cord stimulators.
If that sounds odd, you have to understand that Dr. Fussell is an interventional pain management specialist, and he works with patients who are
experiencing chronic pain. He pointed out, "Most of my patients are referred
from other physicians, which means they have typically done conservative
treatment before they get to me."
Dr. Fussell, who is private practice and on staff at The Washington
Hospital and TriState Surgery Center, said he treats chronic pain "pretty
much everywhere" in the body, and described some of the methods he uses:
"Nerve root blocks are shots where you pick out a specific nerve. I isolate
the nerve with dye and inject an anesthetic and a steroid. The steroid usually decreases the inflammation and irritation and gives some long-term
relief, and the anesthetic will give instant pain relief. So the pain they typically came in with, they won't leave with it.
"Facets are joints in your back and there's a little nerve that goes to each
joint. I put an anesthetic on that nerve. So it's like going to a dentist, where
if you get a shot right on that nerve of the tooth that's bothering you, you
don't have the pain any more. If I block that nerve and your pain goes away,
that means that nerve is your problem."
Dr. Fussell said he became interested in pain management when he did a
month-long rotation during his training in physical medicine and rehabilitation. "I really liked it, because I got to see that a lot of people were actually
benefiting from the things I was doing, and that appealed to me.”
"Plus, I like doing the injections. I like the technical component of it. It
can be interesting, because doing spinal cord stimulator trials, you have to
actually thread an electrical lead along the spinal
column. It's kind of fun trying to find those
nerves that control your leg as they come directly
off the spinal cord. You're threading that little
catheter and you can actually see it going up the
spinal cord on a live X-ray."
That might not be your idea of fun; but if you're
suffering from the pain, no doubt you'd like to
have Dr. Fussell take care of it.
>
For more information, call 724-222-5471
or visit www.washingtonhospital.org.
TRI-COUNTY
ORTHOPAEDICS
________________________________________
Orthopaedic
Surgery
▼
Sports
Medicine
▼
Total Joint
Replacement
Conveniently Located
at Waterdam Commons
159 Waterdam Road
Suite 120
McMurray, PA 15317
724-969-0715
Additional locations:
– 125 N. Franklin Drive, Suite 1
Washington, PA 15301
724-225-8657
– Charleroi Medical Plaza
1200 McKean Avenue
Suite 106
Charleroi, PA 15022
724-489-0120
– 112 Walnut Avenue
Suite B
Waynesburg, PA 15370
724-627-6948
Armando Avolio Jr., M.D.
Joseph P. Stracci, D.O.
Vincent J. Ripepi, D.O.
Kraig R. Pepper, D.O.
Dr. Michael Fussell
Doctors! Health-Focused Businesses!
If you need more copies of the Guide To Good Health for your
waiting room, call (412) 835-5796 or e-mail [email protected]
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 15
CHRONIC PAIN
Chronic Pain Symptoms
Pain Management:
A Team Approach
E
IGHT OUT OF 10 PEOPLE WILL BE AFFECTED BY BACK
PAIN IN THEIR LIVES. All pain, including back pain, may
be categorized two ways: acute and chronic. At ACMH
Hospital, pain is attacked by a team of professionals including a
neurosurgeon, pain management experts, and rehabilitation therapists.
Acute pain is usually caused by an injury or illness that comes
and goes and may easily be treated with an anti-inflammatory
medication (NSAIDS), heat, and gentle stretching. It is important
that, along with pain control, you receive proper instruction in
rehabilitation of your back. This instruction would include exer(l-r) Dr. Curt Conry and Dr. Randall Barrett
cises to strengthen the muscles toward the goal of preventing
future problems.
Chronic back pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than 3-6 months. Osteoporosis is a bone-weakening disease that affects women greater than men and may result in vertebral fractures of the spinal column resulting in a
“stooped” posture. This event usually causes severe pain of a chronic nature. At ACMH Hospital, Dr. Curt Conry,
Neurosurgeon, and Dr. Randall Barrett, Anesthesiologist, perform a procedure called Balloon Kyphoplasty. This procedure is minimally invasive, stabilizes the fracture, and helps to correct the boney deformity. Again, once this back
problem has been corrected, it is essential to obtain the services of a qualified professional, such as a physical therapist, to strengthen the back and reduce the risk of recurrent back pain and/or injury.
>
For more information about chronic pain management provided by ACMH Pain Management Center
and Rehab Services, or for a complete list of neurosurgical services offered by
ACMH Western Pennsylvania Neurosurgical Associates, please call (724) 543-8402.
16 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
• Pain that does not go away as
expected after an illness or injury.
• Pain that may be described as
shooting, burning, aching, or electrical.
• Discomfort, soreness, tightness, or stiffness.
Pain can lead to other
problems, such as:
• Fatigue, which can cause impatience and a loss of motivation.
• Sleeplessness, often because
the pain keeps you awake during
the night.
• Withdrawal from activity and
an increased need to rest.
• A weakened immune system,
leading to frequent infections.
• Depression
• Mood changes, such as hopelessness, fear, irritability, anxiety,
and stress.
• Disability, which may include
not being able to go to work or
school or perform other daily
activities.
Source: www.webmd.com (WebMD
Medical Reference from Healthwise
Spring 2008
Dr. Karpen 'Upfront' With
Patients About Chronic Pain
By Lois Thomson
IF YOU HAVE TO GO TO A DOCTOR,
YOU NATURALLY WANT ONE WHO
IS GOING TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR
PROBLEM. BUT DON'T YOU ALSO
WANT ONE WHO IS GOING TO BE
HONEST WITH YOU?
Don’t Wait Until Each
Step Causes Pain . . .
F
irst things I've noticed over the years is that
certain people may have expectations when
they come to a pain doctor, thinking, 'You're
"But I try
the last guy and you're going to fix me and make
to
bridge the
me pain free.' Unfortunately, that's not always
possible.
gap between
"But I try to bridge the gap between the
the
patient's
patient's expectations and the reality of what we
can do. And once you do that, you have a better expectations
rate of success."
and the realBut Dr. Karpen does his best to alleviate that
ity of what
pain, and he explained some of his methods. "My
we
can do.”
approach is what we call multidisciplinary. I'll
-Dr. Jay Karpen
incorporate many different modalities to treat
pain, some being interventional, which means
we'll use certain injection therapies. I'll use medications as simple as overthe-counter ones, all the way to narcotics if need be, including anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and so on. I'll refer patients to other specialists
or incorporate physical modalities, such as physical therapy, chiropractics, or
aquatic therapy."
The type of approach he uses depends on the cause of the pain, and those
can be many and varied. For example, regarding neck pain, he said,
"Probably the most common would fall under a muscular skeletal cause—
simple muscle sprains or strains, like a whiplash, where the muscles are
stretched and there's damage to the supporting structures of the neck. We
may see difficulty with congenital problems. Then you have the disc problems, degenerative disc disease, bulging discs, herniated discs. The facet
joints of the cervical spine can also cause pain if arthritic. We may see people with headaches that are originating from the neck, or even dental problems. We see a lot of patients with TMJ problems. And there are malignant
issues, like tumors of the spine."
For that reason—because some of the causes are long-lasting and/or can't
be cured—Dr. Karpen said some patients have been in pain "24/7 and have
lost a level of function in their life as well as the quality of life.
"But that's the main purpose of a pain specialist, in my opinion—to get the
pain under control as best as possible for the patient, and to focus on returning them to the (highest) level of function and quality of life."
>
Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C. doctors don’t just work wonders
for aching arches, swollen ankles, and hurting heels. They are experts
in foot pain prevention! Treatments and techniques for:
• Bunions
• Custom-made orthotics
and shoes
• Sports injuries
• On-site X-rays
• Skin problems such as warts
• Hammertoes (crooked toes)
• Diabetic and arthritic foot care
• Endoscopic procedures with
less cost, discomfort, and
recovery time
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave
therapy for heel pain
Evening, lunchtime appointments. Handicapped accessible,
payment plans and most insurance plans accepted.
Dr. Karen Luther & Dr. Darlene N. Saheta
Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C.
2001 Waterdam Plaza Drive, Suite 207
(724) 941-9440
Mercy Hospital Campus, UPMC - St. Margaret Campus
For more information, call Dr. Jay Karpen at the
Center for Pain Relief at (724) 942-5188.
DIANA FLETCHER
Life Coaching
Confidential, telephone coaching sessions
Do you want more energy?
Do you want better health?
I can help!
I will not let you give up!
For information, call 724 733-7562.
Sign up for Free Fit & Healthy
Newsletter at
www.dianafletcher.com
Spring 2008
Pain Relief . . .
Every Step
of the Way!
Advertise
in the
Western
Pennsylvania
Guide TO Good
Health
Summer issue
Call for a media kit
412-835-5796
or e-mail
[email protected]
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 17
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
Take the Corporate Challenge!
Celebrate Pittsburgh’s 250th birthday by pledging to
join the corporate weight loss challenge,
Pittsburgh Pound Down,
in losing 250,000 collective pounds!
Teaching Your
Children About
Proper Nutrition
The Challenge:
By Nathalie Kuffer
Sign up 250
companies from
the Pittsburgh area
A
Deliver year long
wellness programs
that aim to climb
up the ranks of
America's healthiest
major cities
Meet all of your wellness goals this year with a proven metric-driven program that
coaches your employees on weight control, fitness, cooking for health and the
techniques to reduce the long term risk of chronic disease. Build teamwork and
competition between your employees as they compete for monthly prizes and 4 quarterly
grand prizes.
Brought to you by The Path and Pathways to SmartCare Wellness Program
For more information please call 412-563-8800 or
go online to www.willclower.com/ppd.
DR. TYSON SWIGART
Certified Sports Physician
Certified Conditioning Specialist
(724) 873-0700
Morganza Road, Suite 105, Canonsburg, PA 15317
www.southpointechiropractic.com
s parents, we naturally want the
best for our kids. The ultimate
goal for us is to see that they
turn out to be happy and healthy
adults. Right? Then why are we loading them up with preservatives, sugars, toxins, growth hormones and a slew of other detrimental junk?
It’s because most of the products on the market are deemed ‘safe’ for them
to eat, but in the long run, what we feed our kids could kill them.
It is no surprise that today’s children are in the middle of an epidemic that
has to change. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) states the number of
overweight children has more than doubled in the past three decades, with the
most increase occurring during the last ten years. This dramatic obesity rise is
catastrophic to the future of our nation.
What can we do to begin the process of necessary change? Implement a
healthy lifestyle for our children … starting now. We as parents know better
and are responsible for their wellness. No one else.
This may seem ‘easier said than done’. Kids like their mac and cheese, pizza,
candy and juice. The key is not to deprive but to offer wise choices beforehand
and reward with the less nutritious option. Then, remove calorie rich temptations and discuss the importance of treating our bodies well.
Kids are curious by nature. Explain why it is important to make wise choices about nutrition. By providing an explanation as to why you make them go
outside and play; why you make them brush their teeth; why you make them
eat their vegetables … they will realize it is for their overall well-being. You
demonstrate that you love them by teaching them to love themselves. And a
large part of loving themselves is taking care of their bodies.
This change won’t happen overnight. The process of teaching them right
from wrong is a life long habit that begins at home, when they are young. Be
prepared; they will put up a fight. Negotiate, compromise and stick to your guns! Consistency and
persistence is essential. Sooner or later, they’ll get it.
And before long, you’ll get the thanks you always
wanted.
Nathalie Kuffer is a certified Personal Trainer,
Aerobics Instructor, Nutrition and Wellness Consultant
and Pilates Instructor. She is owner of Fun 'n Fit Mobile Fitness Services and can be reached by going to
www.funnfit.us or calling (724) 290-7172.
>
For more tips on how to teach your child to
lead a healthy lifestyle, go to www.funnfit.us
and click on ‘nathalie’s blog’.
Combining Chiropractic care with
corrective exercise, advanced flexibility
training and therapeutic massage to
eliminate pain. Specialty exercise
program for joint replacement and gastric
bypass patients, lowback pain, neck pain
and scoliosis.
Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Health America, and UPMC network providers. Most insurance accepted without referrals.
18 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
Good Advice for Parents
About Teen Health
By Nancy Kennedy
Parents are sometimes
uncertain of how to guide
their teens through the
rough passages of the journey to adulthood.Adolescent
health care, a specialty within
pediatrics, addresses the
concerns of teenagers and
their parents as they experience changes in their physical, emotional and social
lives. Regional experts in the
specialty have good advice
for parents about common
health concerns of teens.
INTERVIEW WITH LEAH GIOVENGO,
Yoga Instructor Specializing
in Teaching Children
By Leta Koontz
Why are you inspired to teach kids?
I have a graduate degree in Child Psychology and have spent a lot of time
working with children, both with and without challenging issues. I really
enjoy the spontaneity and creativity that comes naturally in a yoga class with
kids. Kids are born to be yogis in so many ways, from their rubberband like
flexibility to their innate ability for diaphragmatic breathing.
What training have you completed?
I have a completed teacher training in child and adolescent yoga from
Budding Yogis in Washington D.C. and am working on the 200-hour registered yoga teacher training from 3rd Street Yoga in Pittsburgh.
Tell us about your research project.
I am working on a research study at the University of Pittsburgh, "Yoga for
Anxious Children”. We've developed a pilot project that hopes to show that
the assumed benefits of yoga will help children, 8-12, suffering from a variety of anxiety disorders.
ON VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS
“Vitamins and supplements are important for some teens. The nutritional supplements they most need are calcium and iron, especially for girls.
The recommendation for calcium is 1300mg/day for girls, unless they are
getting this amount from dairy and other foods. Unlike boys, girls also need
to supplement their iron intake; most multivitamins contain the recommended daily allowance and this should be on the label. Older girls should
be sure to get adequate folic acid in their diets, or supplement with a multivitamin.
Any teen who has a medical condition or takes medication should check
with their health care provider about their vitamin intake.”
ON MENINGITIS SHOTS
Many of the benefits that yoga has to offer adults also apply to children.
Yoga builds strength, flexibility and balance. Yoga can help improve concentration and focus, and teach children how to relax and develop a healthy
relationship with their bodies. Learning compassion and developing strong
connections to the world around them are spiritual benefits that usually
come to children with little effort.
“Meningitis shots are recommended for kids who are going to college,
unless they have received a vaccine to prevent meningitis before.
Depending on when that was, they may need a booster. There are few risks
from the meningitis vaccine; serious allergic reactions are rare. About half
of those receiving it will have some mild redness or pain at the injection site
for a day or two. A few individuals may develop a low-grade fever. If you
have had a previous serious allergic reaction to this vaccine, you should not
get it.”
-Pamela Murray, M.D., Director, Adolescent Health,
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
Tell us about your classes.
ON BODY PIERCING
What are the benefits kids gain from practicing yoga?
I teach a Yoga for Kids class (for children ages 4-10) at Schoolhouse Yoga’s
Shadyside location on Mondays from 4:30-5:20pm. This class is a fun and
creative introduction to basic yoga postures, breathing techniques and meditative exercises. The classes always include these three features using a variety of age-appropriate techniques, such as story-telling and partner work. I
also teach a Family Yoga class at Schoolhouse Yoga’s Strip District location
on Sundays from 12-1pm. Yoga is a wonderful way for families with kids
ages four and over to connect, have fun, and do something great for their
bodies.
What kind of feedback do you get from your students?
I have so much fun in all of these classes and I know that both kids and
parents enjoy the active part of the classes, but most often participants comment on how relaxed and centered they feel after the deep relaxation we
practice at the end of each class.
Leta is a certified yoga instructor who teaches at
Schoolhouse Yoga, with locations in the Strip District
and Squirrel Hill sections of Pittsburgh.
>
Leta Koontz welcomes your comments and
questions and can be reached
[email protected].
More information on yoga can be obtained
by visiting www.schoolhouseyoga.com.
Spring 2008
“Health risks associated with body piercing include unintentional injury,
infection and trauma after the piercing is in place. Some piercing placements are associated with specific risks; for example, navel piercings are
slower to heal and more easily infected because the area is covered.
Excessive scarring (keloid formation) can be a problem for some individuals. Since tattoos are essentially permanent, think seriously and soberly
about the decision to permanently decorate a part of your body and if you
do get one, be sure to use a licensed professional and get recommendations.”
-Pamela Murray, M.D., Director, Adolescent Health,
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
ON SPORTS INJURIES
“Sports injuries are on the rise because young athletes are bigger,
stronger and faster than ever before. Football has the highest injury rate;
cheerleading has the fastest rising rate. Parents can help prevent injuries by
making sure the kids follow a conditioning program appropriate to their
age. Since overuse injuries are common in young athletes, parents can
avoid that by encouraging cross-training and participation in multiple
sports. Young athletes should exercise and stay fit prior to the start of a new
season.”
-Jan Grudziak, M.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine
Specialist, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 19
Approximately
900 children in
Pennsylvania are
waiting to be
adopted.
MAY IS NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH ...
You Can Change a Lifetime!
All children deserve a safe, happy life — including the 513,000 American children and youth in
foster care.Young people in foster care especially need nurturing adults on their side because
their own families are in crisis and unable to care for them. Now is the time to get involved.
No matter how much time you have to give, you have the power to do something positive
that will Change a Lifetime for a young person in foster care.
Bringing Adoptive Families
and Children Together
P
roject STAR at The Children’s Institute believes every child deserves a place to call
home, one where they feel cared for, safe and supported. That includes the nearly 900
children in Pennsylvania who are waiting to be adopted. That’s why Project STAR
at The Children’s Institute hosted the second annual matching and adoption awareness
event, Growing Families through Adoption, recently at The Children’s Institute in
Squirrel Hill.
Growing Families through Adoption was started by Jon Douglas, permanency
specialist at Project STAR, to help waiting children find their families through
increasing awareness of adoption and encouraging individuals to become adoptive parents.
Representatives from adoption agencies throughout the state matched Pennsylvania’s waiting children with families who
were ready to give them a safe, loving, permanent home.
The event allowed county agency workers to present profiles about the children that are available for families to adopt.
Families and adoption specialists at various agencies perused the profiles and asked questions of the agency workers.
“The event is important for the county workers because they are the children’s voices; it’s the closest thing parents have to
actually meeting the child face to face,” explains Jon. “These events exist to connect these people.”
In future years, Jon’s vision is simple: the event will be “bigger and better.” He hopes to provide more opportunities for
matches and to encourage participation from more families, agencies and affiliates.
>
For more information on Growing
Families through
Adoption, contact
Jon Douglas at
1.877.433.1109,
option 7.
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20 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
One Family’s
Second Miracle
S
USAN AND STEVE JOHNSON* HAVE WHAT MOST
WOULD CONSIDER TO BE
THE PERFECT FAMILY IN A
HOME FILLED WITH LOVE,
LAUGHTER AND GRATITUDE.
They have two beautiful adopted
daughters. The youngest and newest
member of the family, baby Sarah,
came to them through a chance
encounter by their adoption matching specialist, Renee Marasco, at the
Growing
Families
through
Adoption matching event last
spring.
“It’s very unusual to place newborns in homes through the county’s
services,” notes Renee, who has
attended matching events for more
than 15 years. “When a newborn
becomes available, the county typically does not register the child
because they get inundated with
calls from parents who want to
adopt.”
But at the Growing Families
through Adoption event, one county agency had two babies listed.
Renee excitedly picked up information knowing that one of the newborns would be perfect for the
Johnson family. When she shared
the information with Susan and
Steve, they were ecstatic.
As one of several families interested in adopting Sarah, they underwent interviews, filed papers for
placement in their home and then
waited. They were told they would
know the results in seven days.
Throughout the wait, the family
prayed “for God’s will for the child
to come to their home so they could
raise her for His good,”
explains Susan.
During the wait for
word on the placement,
Steve, who is the director
of a counseling center at
the family’s church, began preparing
for a previously planned mission
trip overseas. The Johnsons still had
not heard word of the results of the
adoption proceedings on the day he
was to leave. So they prayed for an
answer, one way or the other, that
day. As he was walking out the door,
the fateful call with the good news
came from Renee. Steve and Susan
were going to be new parents once
again.
Steve rushed out the door to the
airport, stopping along the way to
send his wife flowers to tell her he
loved her and the new baby that was
going to join their lives while he was
away. While Steve was away, Susan
frantically began preparations for
bringing Sarah home – pulling out
baby clothes, furniture and car seats
from storage. Six days later, baby
Sarah came home to her big sister,
her mom and her grandmother. And
to a Webcam that allowed her proud
father to see his new daughter for
the very first time.
Three days later, Steve returned
from his long trip in the middle of
the night and held the tiny infant in
his arms. Steve and Susan got down
on their knees and thanked God for
the second miracle that had joined
their wonderful lives.
“The fact that Renee attended the
matching event and had the chance
to pick up Sarah’s profile is a miracle,” says Susan. “Only by the grace
of God did both of our two miracles
come into our lives.”
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*Note: the names of the family members
have been changed for this article to protect the
identity of the child during the adoption proceedings.
TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT THE
DANGERS OF TOBACCO
It's an addiction that attracts more kids than marijauna,
alcohol or cocaine. Kids who use tobacco are more
likely to experiment with other drugs.
Need more information?
TobaccoFreeAllegheny
One Allegheny Center • Suite 101 • Pittsburgh, PA 15212
412.322.8321
www.tobaccofreeallegheny.org
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)FBMUIUSBYHVFTUQBTTQPMJDZBQQMJFT
Funding provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and Allegheny County Health Department
Spring 2008
XXXIFBMUIUSBYDPN
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 21
WASHINGTON PHYSICIAN HOSPITAL O
Our Primary
Care Physician
Partners . . .
When choosing a PCP, look
for one of these WPHO
doctors so you can get the
high quality healthcare you
need close to home!
F – Family Practice
I – Internal Medicine
P – Pediatrics
Atlasburg
Dan G. Alexander, M.D. (I)
724-947-5535
Dan Alexander, MD
Avella
Avella Family Practice, LLC (F)
724-587-3472
Sean Porbin, MD
Bentleyville
Centerville Clinics, Inc. (F)
724-239-2390
Theresa Lacava, MD
Brian Szklinski, MD
Burgettstown
Cornerstone Care (F)
724-947-2255
Julie DeRosa, MD
Aparna Taylor, MD
Coleen Wheeler, MD
Sharpnack & Maskarinec Medical
Group, PC (F)
724-947-4770
Bruce Maskarinec, DO
Bruce Sharpnack, MD
California
WPSO/California Family Medicine (F)
724-938-7466
Lisa Chadwick, MD
724-632-6801
Yong Cho, MD
Hickory
Sharpnack & Maskarinec Medical
Group, PC (F)
724-356-2273
Bruce Maskarinec, DO
Bruce Sharpnack, MD
Houston
WPSO/Houston Family Medicine (F)
724-745-9150
Paul Reardon, MD
McDonald
Shien S. Hsu, MD, Inc. (F)
724-926-8300
Shien Hsu, MD
WPSO/McDonald Family Medicine (F)
724-926-8001
Elizabeth Restino, MD
McMurray
Drs. Corkery, Heise, Dainesi & Trapanotto (I)
724-941-7144
Thomas Corkery, DO
Edward Dainesi, MD
Michael Heise, MD
Vincent Trapanotto, DO
Waterdam Family Practice (F)
724-942-4372
David Mittell, MD
Canonsburg Family Medicine Center (F)
724-745-4100
Peter Martina, DO
W. Paul Slomiany, MD
Monica Speicher, MD
Steven Wolfe, DO
Carmichaels
724-966-5081
Joseph Chadwick, MD
Golden Rule Family Care (F)
724-966-2601
Jonathan Yates, DO
Cecil
Cecil Family Medicine Center (F)
724-873-7414
Robert Ackerman, MD
Sarah Duncan, MD
Donald Faith, MD
Melissa Kashlan, MD
Claysville
WPSO/McMurray Family Medicine (F)
724-942-4011
Kurt King, MD
WPSO/Waterdam Pediatrics (P)
724-942-6499
Gary Smith, MD
Damian Ternullo, MD
Claysville Family Practice (F)
724-663-7731
Frederick Landenwitsch, MD
Janine Rihmland, MD
John Six, MD
Jay Ziegler, MD
Cokeburg
Alvaro N. Changco, MD, Inc. (F)
724-945-6128
Alvaro Changco, MD
Eighty-Four
Kevin G. Boehme, MD/Family Medicine (F)
724-228-2488
Kevin Boehme, MD
TO
GOOD HEALTH
724-223-1067
Daniel Holt, MD
Mark Mamros, MD
Jennifer Muhly, MD
Rebecca Plute, MD
Jill Sharer, MD
Eugene Skiffington, MD
Cornerstone Care-Pediatric Associates of
Washington (P)
724-228-7400
Edward Foley, MD
Karen Jooste, MD
Crossing the Jordan Christian Health Center (F)
724-222-7159
Michael Falcione, MD
Craig D. Fox, MD (F)
724-228-4550
Craig Fox, MD
Internal Medicine and
Geriatrics of Washington (I)
724-222-4464
Richard Hahn, MD
William Kottner, MD
James Krebs, MD
Tylerdale Family Medicine (F)
724-222-7240
Nicholas Fuerst, MD
Sean Kelly, DO
Dennis Kitsko, DO
WPSO/Washington Pediatric
& Adolescent Medicine (P)
724-250-6001
Michael Faust, MD
Civie Felice, MD
Tina Lengauer, DO
Richelle Sommerfield, MD
Washington Internal Medicine, Ltd. (I)
724-222-9300
Douglas Corwin, MD
Patricia Friedsam, MD
Harry Silvis, MD
WPSO/WASHPA Family Medicine (F)
724-225-9970
Christa Malinak, MD
Sunaina Nangia, MD
WPSO/Dennis Davis, MD (F)
724-223-8626
Dennis Davis, MD
WPSO/Richard Hart, MD (I)
724-229-7570
Richard Hart, MD
William Pendergast, MD
The Washington
Hospital . . .
The Washington Hospital
offers comprehensive
services at convenient
locations in Washington
and Greene counties.
Waynesburg
WPSO/Waynesburg Family Medicine (F)
724-627-8080
Dylan Deatrich, MD
Rachel Schroer, DO
Sherry Zimmerman, MD
Hospice Care of
Greenbriar Treatment Center
Inpatient Drug and Alcohol
Rehabilitation Services
Strabane Trails of Washington
Senior Independent Living
Strabane Woods of Washington
Senior Assisted Living
Burgettstown
WPSO/Henry A. Folb, MD (I)
724-942-6480
Henry Folb, MD
Robert Lesnock, MD
Robert J. Fagioletti, MD, Ltd. (F)
724-225-7865
Robert Fagioletti, MD
Washington Family Medicine Center (F)
724-223-3100
Paul Cullen, MD
Jeffrey Minteer, MD
T. Grant Phillips, MD
Kimberle Vore, MD
Maryann Weinstein, MD
Washington
Washington
Canonsburg
22 GUIDE
Fredericktown
The Washington Hospital —
inpatient and outpatient services including:
Cancer Care
Cardiac Care
Emergency Care
Health and Wellness Institute
Ruth York Morgan Health Education
Learning Place
Women’s Health Services
Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center of
Health and Fitness Center
Outpatient Physical and
Occupational Therapy
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Work Conditioning Services
Diabetes Education and
Management Program
Spa
Sleep Center
Pulmonary Support Center
Wound and Skin Healing Center
Neighbor Health Center
Laboratory
Radiology
Occupational Medicine Center
Women’s Health Center
www.washingtonhospital.org
Diagnostic Center
Laboratory
Radiology
Canonsburg
Diagnostic Center
Laboratory
Radiology
Claysville
Diagnostic Center
Laboratory
McMurray
Waterdam Medical Plaza
Laboratory
Radiology
EKGs
Children’s Therapy Center
Sleep Center
Waynesburg
Greene County Medical Plaza
Laboratory
Radiology
EKGs
Diabetes Education and
Management Program
Sleep Center
Hospice Care of
724-225-7000
Tri-State Surgery
Center . . .
Outpatient Surgical
Services
Urgent Care
Center . . .
Urgent Care Services
Affiliated with
95 Leonard Avenue
Washington, PA 15301
724-225-8800
3515 Washington Road
McMurray, PA 15317
724-969-4321
Spring 2008
ORGANIZATION PROVIDER NETWORK
Our Specialist
Physician
Partners . . .
WPHO is associated
with over 130 specialists
who have offices
conveniently located in
the community.
Emergency Medicine
Occupational Medicine
Plastic Surgery
Emergency Medicine —
Washington Hospital
724-223-3085
Vinod Chettur, MD
Stephen Keen, MD
Amarjith Mally, MD
Pascal Phares, MD
Occupational Medicine
724-223-3528
George Schmieler, MD
Amelia Paré, MD
724-941-8838
Amelia Paré, MD
Ophthalmology
Canonsburg Podiatry Associates
724-746-1870
Kathryn Weldy, DPM
Endocrinology and Metabolism
WPSO/Endocrine and Metabolic Consultants
724-229-3300
Ralph Schmeltz, MD
Gastroenterology
Allergy and Immunology
Allergy & Asthma Care
724-941-6780
Nikhil Davé, MD
Samuel C. Mines, MD, Inc.
412-942-5750
Samuel Mines, MD
Ohio Valley Asthma & Allergy Institute
800-473-8912
Kumar Patel, MD
Krishna Urval, MD
Anesthesiology
Keystone Anesthesia Consultants, Ltd.
724-222-7167
Lee Bischof, DO
Gray Goncz, DO
James Massucci, MD
Christopher Merck, DO
David Odasso, MD
Charles Tullius, MD
Cardiac Electrophysiology
Charn S. Nandra, MD, PC, Inc.
724-222-0436
Maninder Bedi, MD
Cardiology
Bryan C. Donohue, MD, PC
724-222-1125
Christopher Allen, MD
Bryan Donohue, MD
John Pensock, MD
Sanjaya Saheta, MD
Yadavendra Rajawat, MD
Frazier-Hart, Inc.
724-225-6500
Charles Brown, MD
David Campsey, MD
John Costello, MD
John Frazier, MD
Neil Hart, MD
Vivek Kumar, DO
Michael Pecora, MD
John Wilson, MD
Dean Wolz, MD
Cardiovascular and
Thoracic Surgery
Three Rivers Cardiac Institute
724-228-8585
Ross DiMarco, MD
Hazem El-Khatib, MD
Alice Pierce, MD
Antonio Sortino, MD
G. Frederick Woelfel, MD
Chiropractic
Chiropractic Care Center
724-223-9700
Duane Marasco, DC
Dermatology
Ann B. McCune, MD
724-942-0610
Ann McCune, MD
Joel Siegel, MD
724-225-1505
Joel Siegel, MD
M. M. Vujevich, MD, PC
412-429-2570
Marion Vujevich, MD
Justin Vujevich, MD
Spring 2008
Southwest Gastroenterology Associates
724-941-3020
Philip Joson, MD
Richard Panicco, DO
Mohan Phanse, MD
General Surgery
Angott Surgical Associates
724-222-9500
Brent Angott, DO
Natalie Furgiuele, MD
412-833-9722
Natalie Furgiuele, MD
Pareso and Brown Surgical
Associates, Ltd.
724-225-7300
Dennis Brown, MD
James Pareso, MD
Washington Surgical Services
724-229-1344
Carlos Valladares, DO
Medical Oncology
Oncology Hematology
Association
724-223-3816
Patrick Kane, MD
Alexis Megaludis, MD
Wayne Pfrimmer, MD
Nephrology
Dialysis Clinics, Inc.
724-229-8834
Amit Nahata, MD
Southwestern Nephrology, Inc.
724-228-1303
Subramoniam Jayakumar, MD
Teredesai, McCann & Associates, PC
724-228-2611
Cynthia West, MD
Neurological Surgery
Allegheny General Hospital Department
of Neurosurgery
724-228-1414
David Cohen, MD
Patrick Flannagan, MD
Michael Oh, MD
E. Richard Prostko, MD
Frank Vertosick, MD
Donald Whiting, MD
E. Ronald Salvitti, MD, Inc.
724-228-2982
E. Ronald Salvitti, MD
Jennifer Salvitti Davis, MD
Frederick J. Scheib, MD, PC
724-223-0700
Frederick Scheib, MD
Washington Eye Center, Inc.
724-222-3937
Paul Caimano, DO
Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery
Joseph S. Nawrocki, MD, DMD
724-225-3022
Joseph Nawrocki, MD, DMD
Sherman Spatz, DMD, Associates in Oral
& Maxillofacial Surgery
724-222-3422
Sherman Spatz, DMD
Western PA Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
724-223-0579
Steven Krakora, MD, DMD
Orthopedic Surgery
Anthony C. Canterna, MD, LLC
724-222-5940
Anthony C. Canterna, MD
Steel City Orthopedics Associates, Ltd.
724-941-3886
Steven Theis, MD
SW PA Orthopedic Associates
724-941-0111
Gregory Christiansen, MD
John Gibbons, MD
Patrick McCulloch, MD
Michael Scheel, MD
David Welker, MD
Tri-County Orthopaedics
724-225-8657
Armando Avolio, MD
Kraig Pepper, DO
Vincent Ripepi, DO
Joseph Stracci, DO
Otolaryngology
Eugene F. Paluso, MD, Ltd.
724-228-0782
Eugene Paluso, MD
Jeffrey B. Banyas, MD, LLC
724-942-3502
Jeffrey Banyas, MD
Washington Ear, Nose and Throat, LLC
724-225-8995
Howard Goldberg, MD
Neurology
Pain Management
Adult Neurology Center, PC
724-229-6195
Kent Berkey, MD
Bruce Cotugno, MD
SW PA Neurology Associates, Ltd.
724-228-4011
Melvin Alberts, MD
Karen Tobin, MD
Interventional Pain Institute
724-222-5471
W. Michael Fussell, DO
Obstetrics/Gynecology
Frank J. Brooks, DO, OB/GYN
724-942-3180
Frank Brooks, DO
WPSO/Washington OB/GYN Associates
724-225-3640
Jennifer D’Abarno, MD
William Mitsos, MD
Malay Sheth, MD
Kathryn Simons, MD
Kevin Stocker, MD
Marianne Wizda, MD
Michael Zinsser, MD
Pathology
Pathology Associates of Washington
724-223-3137
Alden McBee, MD
Lawrence Lee, MD
Richard Pataki, MD
Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation
Associates in Physical
Medicine & Rehabilitation
724-223-9270
Michael Platto, MD
Debra J. Panucci, MD, LLC
724-250-6093
Debra Panucci, MD
Anthony N. Ricci, MD, PC
724-228-4106
Anthony Ricci, MD
Podiatry
Cynthia B. Hatfield, DPM
724-222-8883
Cynthia Hatfield, DPM
Grossman Podiatry Center
724-222-5230
Adam Grossman, DPM
McMurray Ankle and Foot Care
724-745-6055
Mark Hofbauer, DPM
Philip S. Pinsker, DPM
724-225-7410
Philip Pinsker, DPM
Psychiatry
Psychiatric Care Systems, PC
724-941-4070
Oscar Urrea, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Daniel A. Iracki, MD
724-228-3733
Daniel Iracki, MD
Southwestern PA Pulmonary and Sleep
Medicine, Ltd.
724-222-2577
Charles Koliner, MD
Rafael Morales, MD
Radiation Oncology
Triangle Radiation Oncology – UPMC
724-223-3788
Michael Dougherty, MD
Radiology
Greater Washington Radiologists, Inc.
724-223-3300
Giovanna Aracri, DO
William Castro, MD
William Conroy, MD
Carl DiGiorgio, DO
William Downer, MD
Kenneth Edgar, MD
Natasha Eshbaugh, MD
Jeffrey Hilger, MD
Stephen Kelminson, MD
Michelle Kirshen, MD
David Leukhardt, MD
Phyllis Walters, MD
Philip Wildenhain, MD
Rheumatology
Arthritis and Rheumatology
Associates of SW PA
724-228-8856
David Seaman, MD
Urgent Care
Urgent Care Center
724-969-4321
Douglas Corkum, MD
Mary Lamb, MD
Urology
Anand Karamcheti, MD
724-222-8871
Anand Karamcheti, MD
Triangle Urological Group
724-225-0990
George Jones, MD
Timothy P. Weyrich, MD
724-942-3963
Timothy Weyrich, MD
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 23
GOOD ADVICE FOR
HEALTHY VISION
By Nancy Kennedy
May is National Healthy Vision Month, a
period designated to raising public awareness of the importance of eye health and protection. Healthy Vision Month is
part of a federal initiative, Healthy Vision 2010, launched by the National Institute for Health’s National Eye Institute in
collaboration with the Healthy People 2010 program. The objective of Healthy Vision 2010 is to identify threats to vision
and eye health and to encourage people to get regular eye exams and adopt preventive strategies to preserve their precious vision. Several local experts in vision health have offered to share their best advice for protecting the eyes from
injury and disease and preventing vision loss.
EYE EXAMINATIONS
PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY
“Periodic eye exams are a key to healthy vision. Over time, you may
notice a gradual degradation of vision, and gradual changes can go unnoticed. If you are prone to needing glasses, the eye exam may reveal that a
new prescription will restore your sight. We all have a tendency to accept
our vision as it is, not realizing how good it can be.
“People with diabetic conditions or glaucoma may be particularly prone
to gradual loss of vision. In some cases, losses may be irreversible if not
treated in the early stages. The best approach is to have a “healthy eye
exam.” A thorough check of your eyes by a medical eye doctor will reveal
the early stages of a disease which can have a devastating effect if left
untreated.
Any eye injury or sudden change of vision should be treated immediately by your eye doctor. Eye pain is an obvious signal that you need to visit an
eye doctor, as are flashes of light and the appearance of ‘floaters.’ It is never
safe to assume that sudden changes in your eye will go away untreated. See
an eye doctor.”
-Anna Miller, M.D.
“Regular eye exams are essential to eye health but are also an important
part of general health. Optometrists are primary care practitioners; we
screen patients for eye health and if we find something, we refer to a specialist. Many illnesses, including hypertension, diabetes, lupus and high
cholesterol, present with early signs in the eyes; many illnesses affect your
eyes as well. In an eye exam, we can actually see the cholesterol build-up in
the arteries. The eyes are the only place in the body where we can actually
see the arteries without cutting. An eye exam is about much more than a
prescription.”
-Charles Raleigh, O.D., Giant Eagle Optical, Monroeville
PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR
“We see many injuries that could have been prevented with protective
eyewear. Children and adults should wear protective eyewear anytime they
participate in sports, especially in activities involving paintball and airsoft
guns. When you go swimming in pools, goggles will help protect your eyes
from infections. Wear sunglasses for the UV protection; they help prevent
future problems.”
-Michelle Anderson, D.O., Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Inc.
“Contact sports and those involving projectiles, such as bows and arrows
or BB guns, can cause eye injuries. Protective eyewear is essential. Common
home activities such as cooking, drilling a nail or doing yard work carry risk
of eye injury also. Most eye injuries at home or at work are preventable if
you take precautions.”
-Thomas D’Orazio, M.D, Ph.D., Crossroads Eye Care
“With the depletion of the ozone layer due to global warming, we are
exposed to greater amounts of harmful UV rays. Eyewear should always
have UV filters to protect your eyes. Even if you don’t need corrective lenses, wearing a plain lens with a UV filter is good idea to preserve your vision.”
-Marcus Parrish, ABO, NCLE, Eyetique
DISEASE PREVENTION
“Cataracts are part of the normal aging process and are caused by UV and
metabolic damage; their growth can be accelerated by diabetes and certain
metabolic diseases. Multivitamins help slow down the process.”
-Thomas D’Orazio, M.D., Ph.D., Crossroads Eye Care
“If you have risk factors for diabetes, get yourself screened regularly. If
you have diabetes, control your blood sugar as carefully as possible, to help
prevent retinal hemorrhages and diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to
blindness.”
-Fran Pelligrino, L.P.N., Surgical Coordinator, Everett and Hurite
“Glaucoma is an invisible disease; it has no symptoms so regular exams
are essential to early diagnosis and treatment. Once diagnosed, follow your
treatment regimen very closely to preserve your vision. At its worst, glaucoma is a blinding disease.”
“We learned from AREDS (Age Related Eye Disease Study) that anti-oxidants, particularly vitamins A, C, E and zinc, may lower the risk of developing advanced disease for those with macular degeneration but are of no
benefit if you don’t have it. Lutein and Omega-3’s, plus a healthy lifestyle
and diet, will also help keep your eyes healthy, as will the use of UV protection.”
-Thomas D’Orazio, M.D., Ph.D., Crossroads Eye Care
To receive
a complementary
copy of
Hospital News,
call
(724) 468-8360
or email
[email protected]
Visit us online at www.wpahospitalnews.com
24 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
EYE CARE
Headache in Child May Indicate Eye Problems
By Michelle L.Anderson,
OD, FAAO
O
ne of the hardest
things for parents
to hear is that
their child is in pain.
Unfortunately according
to the National Headache
Foundation 60% of children suffer from headache pain. Headache
complaints may have a
variety of causes, from bumping a
head on the coffee table to sinus
infections to intracranial lesions.
Eye doctors often play a role in sorting out the cause of headaches in
children. Parents and pediatricians
like to rule out vision problems as a
factor. In fact when a child complains of headaches, eye doctors are
determining much more about a
child’s health than just whether or
not he needs glasses.
Basing a headache diagnosis on a
child’s complaints alone is often difficult because the younger the child
is, the more difficult it
is for him to describe
what he’s experiencing.
Headaches can be
caused by uncorrected
refractive error, or a
need for glasses. They
can also be attributed to
how the child’s eyes
work together. Accommodative spasm and
convergence insufficiency are two common
ocular causes for headaches. In
accommodative spasm, the eye’s
focusing system works much harder
than necessary often shifting refractive error, constricting the pupils,
and causing decreased eye movements. In convergence insufficiency,
the eyes do not cross as much as
they should. When looking at near
objects, the eyes both focus and
cross to provide the brain with a
clear and single image. If the eyes
don’t cross enough, the brain is
either receiving a double image or a
blurred image making near work
difficult.
Eye doctors also look
for other causes of
headaches. These are eyelid swelling, corneal abrasions, untreated glaucoma,
eye inflammation, retinal
disease, optic nerve swelling, and orbital masses.
Some of these conditions
have signs that are visible
to the naked eye while
others require a dilated eye
exam to discover. Optic
nerve swelling and/or
decreased range in eye
movements can be signs of
increased
intracranial
pressure or intracranial
masses.
While eye exams can provide
answers to why your child is having
headaches, oftentimes the most they
do is rule out the eye and vision as a
potential cause. It is important to
manage headaches through your
child’s pediatrician so that a cause
can be found.
>
For more information, you
can reach Dr. Michelle
Anderson at Pediatric
Ophthalmology and Strabismus,
Inc. Surgical Associates at
(724) 772-3388 or you can
visit their web site at
www.pos.eyemd.org.
Jane Hughes, M.D. Joseph Paviglianti, M.D. Michelle Anderson, O.D.
We see children for eye exams, glasses and contact lens fittings,
as well as for more complicated pediatric eye problems.
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 25
DENTAL HEALTH
Finally, Dentures That Stay PutSM …
So You Don’t Have To
By Dr. Joseph Curley
These mini dental
implants are the best way
to stabilize both full and
partial dentures, and to
replace smaller single
missing teeth when space
or bone is limited.
-Dr. Joseph Curley
Comparatively, the studies that
analyzed this population (those
with missing teeth or ill-fitting dent is estimated there are between
tures) to those with well-fitting sta38 and 50 million Americans
ble dentures, found the population
who are missing some or all of
of stable denture-wearers to have:
their teeth. The impact of missing
• higher blood serum albumin
teeth on your overall health is not
and hemoglobin levels. This
well understood by the public. A
suggests an increased absorption
recent review of dental and medical
of the nutrients in our food.
literature has directed much needed
• higher fat content in body
attention to the issue of oral health
extremities. Higher numbers is a
and its impact on the rest of the
measure of good health for
body. The studies found a correlaseniors.
• significant decrease in
waist size and waist-hip
ratio.
Nutrition, patient eating satisfaction and ultimately health, improves
when missing teeth are
replaced or ill-fitting dentures are stabilized.
So, what is the best way
to replace a missing tooth
or stabilize a denture, and
improve your health?
Dental implants.
Dental implants have
enjoyed an impressive
evolution and success
since the first one was
placed in Sweden in 1965.
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is
Actually, thanks to technology, it can. Dentists are
designed to function as
the root of a natural tooth.
now wielding lasers to seek and destroy cavities.
Implants enjoy one the
Dr. Robert Luther, Jr., recently added a DELight laser,
patients, especially parents,” he added. “And part of
highest success rates of
manufactured by HOYA ConBio of Santa Clara,
educating the public is to also dispel misconceptions
any implanted medical
California to his office.
about dental lasers.” Luther explained that some
device.
people are concerned should the laser miss a tooth it
“I recognized the potential the laser could bring to my
A very significant and
could burn them; and that is a common misconception.
practice,” said Dr. Luther. “The comfort of my patients,
recent development has
especially the children is important to me, and this no
When the laser’s wavelength is set for hard-tissue use, it
been the introduction of
shot, no drill option, makes it easier than ever.”
only affects the tooth structure, leaving other parts of
the “mini” dental implant.
the mouth unaffected. The beam of light emitted by the
Dr. Luther is a member of a small but growing group of
These
mini
dental
laser destroys only tooth decay, and cannot accidentally
select dentists across the nation who have added the
implants are the best way
harm nor “burn” you as many people fear.
hard-tissue laser to their practice. According to Dr.
to stabilize both full and
Luther, aside from the psychological benefits, a laser is
“Children are particularly receptive to the idea of
partial dentures, and to
more precise than a drill. It removes only the diseased
replacing a shot and drill with something more
replace smaller single
part of the tooth. A drill bores out healthy tissue as well.
pleasant,” said Luther. “They like to wear the ‘cool
Additionally, the surface of the tooth is better prepared
glasses’ used during treatments. I’ve been very pleased
missing teeth when space
to hold the adhesive that binds the filling to the tooth. A
to note how much adding a hard-tissue laser to my
or bone is limited. They
laser leaves behind a rough, dimpled surface, whereas a
practice has helped make my younger patients happier,
can be used more often
drilled tooth is smoother and does not allow for as
and how that makes their parents happier, too.”
when patients have medstrong a bond.
Lasers allow children, as well as adults, to be treated
ical, financial, or anatomiDr. Luther also said that much of the public is still
early and quickly. So, with proper education and
cal limitations that often
unaware that fillings by laser are possible. “I hope to
training, laser dentists are creating a generation of
preclude the use of coneducate more of the community so they can benefit
patients who will have no fear of treatment to pass
I
tion between people with missing
teeth or ill-fitting dentures and:
• consumption of fewer vegetables
• lower blood serum nutrients of
vitamin C & E, foliate, and beta
carotene
• eating fewer meats
• increased risk for atherosclerosis
and cancer
• taking 17% more medicine
• eating less fiber and nutrientrich food
• poor overall general health
NO shots? NO drills?
NO numb lips?
This can’t be dentistry… can it?!
from laser dentistry.” “Safety is always a big concern for
along to their children.
To learn how laser dentistry can help you, call Dr. Luther at 412-788-6300 and ask for a free
brochure and visit his website www.pittsburghlaserdentist.com. Serving families in the southwestern
suburbs of Pittsburgh for 30 years, and known for comprehensive dental services including miniimplants, orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry with teeth whitening, Dr. Luther is a graduate of the
University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine.
26 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
ventional dental implants.
The procedure to place a mini
implant has less risk because of the
nonsurgical (no-incision) placement protocol. This leads to a shorter healing time and fewer complications. More patients who have controlled medical problems are now
candidates for dental implants.
Mini implants are more affordable
than conventional implants. Four
conventional implants used to help
stabilize a new lower denture,
including the new denture, could
range between $10,000 and
$15,000. Alternatively, four mini
implants to help stabilize a new
lower denture, including the new
denture, might range between
$4000 and $6000; often less than
half the cost of conventional
implant therapy.
Many patients have been told,
“You don’t have enough bone for
implants.” This is common when
teeth have been missing for more
than a couple of years. It is however, sometimes possible to augment
or graft more bone to the site where
an implant is planned to be placed.
The diameter of a mini implant is
1.8 to 2.4 mm wide, whereas a conventional implant has a diameter
3.0mm and greater. That may not
sound like much of a difference, but
in dental terms it is the difference
between needing to be somewhat
invasive versus minimally invasive.
This diameter allows mini implants
can be placed in smaller amounts of
bone without grafting, opening up
an entire population of candidates
for implant procedures, and new life
for denture sufferers.
The pace of change in dentistry is
impressive, and has incredible
potential to improve dental and
whole body health. I am excited to
be practicing in an era when so
much is available to patients that
can make meaningful improvements to the quality of life. Smiling
confidently and more often, and eating nutritious foods comfortably,
will bring back some of the “sunshine in your belly” you may have
lost along the way.
>
Dr. Joseph Curley of transcenDENTAL Centre in
Shadyside is an exclusive provider of Stay Put Denture
Enhancement, using mini implants for long-term denture
stabilization. For more information, call Dr. Curley at
(412) 235-2500 or visit the web site
www.ExperienceComfort.com.
Spring 2008
ORAL CANCER – Have You Been Screened?
By Lois Thomson
“the most common causes of oral
T
he statistics on oral cancer are staggering. Consider
cancer are alcohol and tobacco
that one American dies every hour from oral cancer;
use, age (people over 40), and a
that the death rate from oral cancer in the United States
previous history of oral cancer.
is higher than that of cervical cancer, Hodgkin’s disease, and
some other forms of cancer; and that while the death rate of
However, there are no set rules,
cancer overall has decreased in the past 40 years, that of oral
as 25 percent of victims don’t have
cancer has increased 1.5 percent.
any of these risk factors.”
“It is something you don’t hear about,” agreed Dr. Robert
Luther, Jr. “Most people don’t know anybody who has had a
-Dr. Robert Luther
problem, yet the statistics show there’s quite a bit of it out
there.
indication something possibly pre-cancerous is occurring
Dr. Robert Luther, Jr.
“We’ve seen a few patients who have had it. Sadly, it was
there, and it should be checked out further.
hard to detect until this recent technology came out. Usually
“This system is able to detect it early, which is really critical
(by the time) you detect it visually, it’s pretty advanced and the treatment is in trying to help the patient. There’s a very high survival rate among people
pretty radical, and often disfiguring. So it’s very unpleasant.”
who are diagnosed early. Later stages do not have a good prognosis.”
This “recent technology” is the new ViziLite Plus oral cancer screening
Dr. Luther said the most common causes of oral cancer are alcohol and
and, fortunately for his patients, Dr. Luther has introduced it into his den- tobacco use, age (people over 40), and a previous history of oral cancer.
tal practice. He said the ViziLite process, which only takes a few minutes However, there are no set rules, as 25 percent of victims don’t have any of
and can be done at the same time as a regular cleaning appointment, these risk factors.
begins by having the patient swish a liquid in the mouth for about a
“Oral cancer is on the rise, but with early detection you can prevent a lot
minute. “It helps to dry the mouth and sets you up so you can perform the of damage,” Dr. Luther said. “We’d like to see all adults get (the test) on a
test more accurately.”
regular basis. Right now we’re trying to educate them and help them underFollowing that, he breaks open a pen-like capsule that produces a light, stand the value.”
and passes that throughout the entire mouth. “If you have a lesion, it shows
up white under the light,” Dr. Luther explained. “And if you get a positive
For more information, call (412) 788-6300 or
reading, there’s a second stage where you paint the tissue with a blue dye,
visit the web site www.pittsburghlaserdentist.com.
and then wipe the lesion. If the dye can’t be wiped off, that’s a pretty good
>
Differences Exist Among
Dental Practices
"With time, the work fails, or the patient is not comfortable or satisfied and now has to pay to get it redone. This is
costly in both the amount of money spent and the tooth
structure lost. Patients make a major decision based on a
minor, insignificant and often detrimental detail of insurance participation. Equally unfortunate are the patients
By Lois Thomson
who have no insurance and find themselves in an insurance"Different dental practices are suited best for different types of
participating practice. They are paying a higher fee for
patients," says Dr. Steven Crandall. He referenced one way to
insurance-based care."
classify patient care that is based on the patient's dental needs:
Following dental school, Dr. Crandall decided he wanted
CLASS 1: Routine dental cleanings, fillings
to take his practice a step—or several steps—farther than
CLASS 2: Same as 1, plus single crowns, minor cosmetic
the standard. He sought out the masters in cosmetic denissues, i.e., a white filling on a front or back tooth
tistry, implant dentistry and complex bite issues (TMJ). He
Dr. Steven Crandall
CLASS 3: Major cosmetic issues, i.e., worn short teeth, irregattended the post-graduate dental program at the Pankey
ular gum lines, dissimilarly colored teeth, crowded and missing teeth
Institute in Florida, and learned that truly comprehensive care requires a
CLASS 4: Complex restorative needs, including a combination of cos- different approach than the standard model of most dental practices. In
metic, multiple missing teeth, bite problems
addition to his training at the Pankey Institute, he learned from Dr. Frank
Dr. Crandall says his practice model is designed for handling patients Spears from the Seattle Institute and Dr. Jack Hahn from Nobel Biocare.
within Class 3 and 4, and for those in Class 1 and 2 who want to avoid This additional education developed his current philosophy of care and his
becoming 3s and 4s.
knowledge for handling Class 3 and 4 patients properly. A better underHe explains that many dental practices are centered on an insurance- standing of the significance of these educational facilities can be obtained
based model, and have designed their operations on the low fee the insur- from their websites: www.pankey.org, www.seattleinstitute.com, and
ance industry pays for treatment. This model often requires a high volume www.nobelbiocare.com.
of patients. It also requires low-cost dental labs. "This model can work for
This additional training enables Dr. Crandall to handle the more complex
Class 1 and 2 patients. The problem is that Class 3 and Class 4 patients are classes of dentistry, and gives his practice an advantage over others for these
also treated within this model. This results in dental care that is typically types of patients.
destined for failure."
Dr. Crandall said a number of his patients have come to him after having
He continued by saying it also results in dissatisfaction with the results for previously gone elsewhere. "I often see patients who have spent a great deal
both the dentist and the patient. "It is difficult, if not impossible, for a den- of money having their teeth restored—and a lot of it not done correctly," he
tist practicing within this model to provide excellent care. They have too said. "Had the other dentist been able to take a little more time and educate
little time, training and money to deliver adequate care for this type of both themselves and the patients, it would have enabled them to deliver a
patient.
nice result that would be aesthetically pleasing, functionally sound, and
"I know because I found myself within this model when I first started long lasting."
practicing dentistry in 1984," he said. "After practicing within the insurHe continued, "Sometimes people say, 'I can't afford to go a place like
ance model for several years, it became obvious to me that the type of den- yours,' and my answer is, 'You really can't afford not to—because you're
tistry I desired to engage in would require additional time and education.
going to pay to do it wrong once, and then have to pay again to do it right."
"The problem is further compounded by the fact that the cost for this type
Additionally, he said, the longer-lasting effects are that, "You only get so
of care quickly exceeds the patient’s insurance maximum, so now they get much tooth structure, and when it's gone, it's gone for good. A lot of the
insurance-based care for the doctor's usual fee, which is usually higher than damage is irreversible. Take the time to do it right the first time."
the fees allowed by insurance. This scenario often occurs because the
patient thinks that using a dentist who participates in their insurance plan
For more information, you can reach Dr. Steven Crandall at
will save them money. This thought is true for Class 1 and 2 patients, but
(412) 833-6166 or visit www.stevenrcrandalldmd.com.
unfortunately not for Class 3 and 4 patients. In fact, the opposite occurs.
>
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 27
REHABILITATION
New Advances in Rehabilitative Stroke Treatment
Improves Quality of Life
RETRAINING THE BRAIN
By April Terreri
Y
ears ago when people suffered a stroke
and its consequent debilitating effects,
they were told to ignore the affected side
and to learn to live and function with the unaffected side of their bodies. “The important thing
about stroke rehabilitation today is it has shifted from that mindset to the emphasis on using,
incorporating, and improving the function of
the affected side,” says Catherine Birk, M.D.,
physiatrist for the Stroke Program at
Harmarville Rehabilitation Hospital. “We do
this through the use of a variety of physical
techniques. We also have access to some of the
latest and greatest technology that allows us to
do these things for our patients.”
THE TECHNOLOGY
Stroke rehabilitation has made significant
strides, especially in the technologies available to
help people retrain and rehabilitate their affected
areas so they can achieve as close to normal
functionality as possible. Here are a few of those
technologies.
Stroke Warning Signs
Timing is extremely critical when you
suspect you are having a stroke, and a
medical doctor must treat you within
three hours of the onset of these symptoms:
• Sudden weakness or numbness of the
face, arm, or leg – especially on one side
of the body.
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or
understanding.
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both
eyes.
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or
loss of balance or coordination.
• Sudden severe headaches with no
known cause.
It’s important not to forget the therapist behind the
treatments, says Dr. Birk. “They use a variety of techniques to enhance the best functional use of the affected parts of the body.”
One of these techniques is NDT (neuro-developmental technique). “We combine this with a lot of
motor learning,” says Meri Slaugenhaupt, physical
therapist and team leader for the Stroke Program. “We
incorporate both sides of the body and use things like
forced use, making the affected side involved in activities like transfers, walking, and just about every physical activity.” Constraint induced therapy also forces
the use of the affected side. “We teach compensatory
strategies only when they are necessary.”
One of the fascinating things emerging in neurological rehabilitation explains Dr. Birk, is the brain’s ability to be retrained to take up the slack from the affected part of the brain. “It’s the idea of neuronal plasticity. Imagine you are learning how to play the piano. You
are reading music and you are moving your hands
accordingly. In doing this, you are teaching the brain to
move your hands as a result of reading music.”
EARLY INTERVENTION: LESS INJURED BRAINS
The combination of advanced technologies and highly
trained therapists provides a well-coordinated approach
to stroke rehabilitation. “There is a lot more going on in
In order to help patients regain a normal gait
the initial treatment of stroke today, so there are more
pattern, HEALTHSOUTH uses the AutoAmpeople with less injured brains,” Dr. Birk says. “Before
bulator, a robotic treadmill designed by
the advent of rapid treatment following a stroke, there
HEALTHSOUTH engineers. “The apparatus
were considerably greater stroke injuries than I see curincorporates computerized walking patterns that
rently. People finally understand the message that time is
allow patients to practice at length in a weightbrain and that the window to seek medical help is just
supported harness,” explains Dr. Birk. The walkthree hours.” Dr. Birk says she sees less extremely severe
ing patterns imprint in the patient’s brain, helpdisabilities now due to stroke awareness.
ing them achieve a close-to-normal gait once
Although much has changed over the last few decades,
again.
Risk factors for stroke:
stroke is still the No. 3 killer in the U.S. Heart disease and
• High blood pressure
cancer are the top two killers. “Stroke is the largest cause
Bioness H200
• Tobacco use
of disability in adults,” continues Dr. Birk. Research
This portable unit retrains motor functionality
• Diabetes mellitus
shows that about one-third of people suffering a stroke
using electrical stimulation to improve walking
• Carotid or other artery disease
die. But the news gets better if they live past the first
and hand functions by retraining muscles, reduc• TIAs (transient ischemic attacks –
month. Two-thirds of the number of people surviving
ing spasticity, preventing atrophy, and increasing
or mini strokes)
that first month may live for another 10 years.”
the range of motion and blood circulation to the
• Atrial fibrillation or other
Recognizing the symptoms and getting early treatment
stroke-affected areas.
heart disease
and then acute care is very important, notes
• Certain blood disorders
Slaugenhaupt. “Also important is the recognition of how
Reo Therapy
• High blood cholesterol
important rehab is, with its focus on a multi-disciplinary
This is a robot-assisted platform that facilitates
• Physical inactivity and obesity
approach including PT, OT, speech therapy, and neurohigh repetitions of functionally oriented arm
• Excessive alcohol intake
behavioral therapy. The highly trained nursing staff and
exercises by reestablishing motor strength. It
• Illegal drug use
the patient’s family involvement also play important
also reestablishes eye-hand coordination.
roles. It is no longer about telling patients they had a
stroke and now they have to choose which nursing home
VitalStim®
This unit uses neuromuscular electrical stimulation therapy to treat dys- they want to go to.”
Allegheny County is fortunate in having a comprehensive network of
phagia. Small electrical currents stimulate the muscles responsible for swallowing. Speech and language pathologists use this unit to train patients to delivering community awareness of the risk factors to watch for, says Mark
VanVolkenburg, director of clinical services at HEALTHSOUTH Harmarville.
speak more naturally by strengthening the muscles.
“We see patients who have successful outcomes because they are getting in
early for treatment and they understanding how important that three-hour
Myomo e100 System
This unit helps patients regain motion in their arms by sensing weak elec- window really is. We have very good rehab facilities in the Pittsburgh area.”
Therapy usually does not end once patients complete their inpatient rehatrical activity in arm muscles. It provides enough assistance to allow the
bilitation, notes Dr. Birk. “People continue to need care after their acute care
patient to complete simple exercises.
ends. They need to follow up on their care of physical motor and functional problems that can continue after stroke.”
SaeboFlex®
This is a wrist splint and exercise station promoting increased function for
For more information, contact Ann Ciotoli,
shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands through dynamic splinting combined
HEALTHSOUTH, at (412) 826-2707.
with creative exercises.
AutoAmbulator™
>
28 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
Stroke Survivor Group Just One of Many ACMH
Community Programs
By Becky DeSantis
A
s Community Outreach person at ACMH hospital, one of my favorite
responsibilities is setting up Community Education programs. These
programs are held throughout the year on a variety of subjects as general offerings or in response to requests from community groups. Topics we
are able to offer through our employees, administrators, and physicians
range from the administration of a hospital to diagnostic procedures and
treatment to health and wellness to child car seats!
Other ACMH services offered to the community, which are as gratifying to
us as they are to the recipients, are our support groups. ACMH has groups
for pregnant women and their families, families touched by autism, cancer,
pregnancy loss, heart disease, ostomy and stroke.
I have the pleasure of co-hosting the Stroke Survivor Support Group that
meets at ACMH every Tuesday. This group is sponsored by the Health Hope
Network out of Pittsburgh. It is unique in that it is designed to provide support to the survivor and their caregiver. It incorporates tactics to strengthen
the body, mind and spirit through physical exercise, mental exercise, and
most importantly socialization. Our group meets once a week for 3 hours
and to be honest, when we were approached about hosting this program, our
first thought was, "How in the world are we going to fill three hours every
week?" The group has met faithfully since
STATS:
September 2007 and it is amazing how
•
Every
year, over 700,000
quickly the three hours pass. The group’s
Americans suffer a new or
members are so enthused about meeting and
recurrent stroke.
so willing to participate in multiple activities
• Stroke kills one person
(including eating!!) that some days three
every three minutes,
hours is not enough time!
accounting for 150,000
One of the stroke survivors said it best – “I
people each year.
love this group and everybody in it!”
• American paid about $63
billion in 2007 for strokeFor more information, contact
related medical costs and
Becky DeSantis, ACMH, at
disability.
(724) 543-8837.
>
GET CONNECTED WITH STROKE SURVIVOR CONNECTION
Stroke Survivor Connection (SSC) offers free therapy support to stroke survivors
and their caregivers at more than 30 sites in Western Pennsylvania. The SSC program can assist in a stroke survivor’s transition from being homebound and restricted in their activities to being active and comfortable interacting in their community.
Sponsored by Health Hope Network, formerly Visiting Nurse Foundation, this
unique program helps to strengthen body, mind, and spirit through physical exercise, mental exercise, and socialization. In addition to the three-hour weekly meetings, there are also free inter-group activities.
Contact Carol Glock, Health Hope Network’s Education and Marketing Director,
at 412-937-8350 or email [email protected]. For more information,
visit our website at www.healthhopenetwork.org and get connected today!
OUTPATIENT LOCATIONS:
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 29
REHABILITATION
The Importance
of Certified Hand
Therapists
By Lois Thomson
I
f you had a particular medical condition that required the care of, say, a
heart specialist, you would make sure
you located the physician who you thought could give you the best possible treatment. So why wouldn't you do the same thing if you needed therapy on your hand or arm?
That is the question Paul Brach, founder of The Hand Center of
Pittsburgh, poses. "It's important for people to realize that if they go to specialists for medical care, they should also see specialists for rehabilitative
care. It's important that they spend time doing the same research on the
therapist as they would on a surgeon or a regular physician to get their
qualifications, and make sure the individual understands their injury."
To underscore his position, Paul gave an example of a person who is seen
by a physician, and the physician suggests going to physical therapy for the
patient's wrist or hand injury. If the physician does not have a recommendation of where to go, it would be very easy for the patient to schedule an
appointment at the place most convenient to home or work, instead of
researching and finding the most qualified therapist to take care of that particular injury.
A certified hand therapist (CHT) can be either a physical or an occupational therapist. Both have to have more than 4,000 hours of training to sit
for the certification exam and then pass the exam before they can refer to
themselves as a CHT. In light of that fact, a CHT has a thorough understanding of the pertinent anatomy related to the upper extremity and how
that anatomy applies to the function of the injured site.
When looking for a certified hand therapist, Paul offers additional advice.
"When calling a physical therapy clinic, it is important to ask if there is a
certified hand therapist on staff who can take care of your wrist or hand
injury. Our clinic is rather fortunate, and I am very proud of the fact that
my associate, Susan Christie, and I are two of the only three physical therapists who are also certified hand therapists in all of Western Pennsylvania.
"So the point is, if you do the research and you realize that you should
be seen by a hand therapist for an injury to your hand or upper extremity,
in the end you may save yourself time and money – because it may take less
treatments, and less co-pays, which can equal less out-of-pocket expense
and less time away from your job or hobbies."
>
For more information, call Paul Brach at The Hand Center
of Pittsburgh at (412) 429-1980 or visit the web site
www.handcenterpgh.com.
Certified Specialists in Upper Extremity
Rehabilitation
The Hand Center of Pittsburgh offers
expert care for people with a variety
of Hand & Upper Extremity Disorders.
Common Diagnosis Treated:
SHOULDER
• Rotator Cuff
• Impingement
• Fracturel Dislocation
• Adhesive Capsulitis
HAND
• Tendonitis
• Fractures
• Tendon Injuries
• Osteo/Rheumatoid
Arthritis
WRIST
• Tendonitis
• Distal Radius
Fractures
• Carpal Fractures
• Ganglion Cyst
• Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome
ELBOW
• Overuse
InjurylTendonitis
• Fracture/Dislocation
• Cubital Tunnel
Syndrome
The Hand Center of Pittsburgh • 1145 Bower Hill Rd., Suite 203 • Pittsburgh, PA 15243
412-429-1980 www.handcenterpgh.com
30 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
Therapists at Centers for Rehab
Services Known for Clinical
Excellence, Patient Satisfaction
By Vanessa Orr
E
very day, changes take place in the medical field that can make a difference in
the way patients are treated. For this
reason, it’s vital that those who practice medicine, or provide one-on-one care to patients
such as physical and occupational therapists,
stay abreast of all of the innovations taking
place. By taking a leadership role, healthcare
professionals can not only educate and treat
their patients more effectively, but can provide
the highest quality of clinical excellence.
“All of our
At Centers for Rehab Services (CRS), the
therapists
staff takes pride in providing patients with a
are involved
superior level of care. “Our physical and
occupational therapists are considered leadin continuing
ers in their professions,” explained Regional
education
Director Tony Sanks. “Many of them hold
as a way to
advanced degrees, and specialize in specific
develop new
areas such as women’s health, balance disorders, neurologic disorders, hands and generskills and
al orthopedics. They may also participate in
learn new
studies and research that furthers their eduspecialties.
cation.”
This enables
One of the qualities that Sanks looks for
when hiring new employees is their dedicathem to
tion to continuing education. “All of our
provide
therapists are involved in continuing educatheir
patients
tion as a way to develop new skills and learn
with the most
new specialties,” he said. “This enables them
to provide their patients with the most up-toup-to-date
date treatments available.” CRS also nurtures
treatments
its highly skilled professionals through a
available.”
commitment to advanced specialty training,
certification, and teaching.
-Tony Sanks
As a partner of UPMC and an affiliate of
the University of Pittsburgh, Centers for
Rehab Services is able to provide patients with services at UPMC hospitals and long-term care facilities, and patients can be seen at more than
40 outpatient locations throughout western Pennsylvania. Joint therapy
programs with the UPMC Institute for Rehabilitation and Research and
the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine are also evidence of the Center’s
continuing commitment to provide progressive, high-quality treatment.
In addition to staying at the forefront of technology and new techniques, the staff at Centers for Rehab Services makes patient care a priority. “When it comes to customer services, I put us up in the top echelon of businesses, including those that are not in the medical field,” said
Sanks. “There are a lot of different personalities out there, and many of
the people we’re dealing with are injured or depressed; they don’t want
to be there. But our staff is able to connect with them and get them to
work towards specific goals. We treat everyone as an individual, and it’s
one of the reasons that people come back.”
Staff at CRS also makes it a priority to communicate with doctors and
other healthcare providers to ensure that everyone works in conjunction
to treat the patient. “We want to make sure that the doctors are getting
what they want, and that they know what we’re doing,” said Sanks. “We
encourage multidisciplinary collaboration.” Staff is also monitored and
undergoes utilization reviews to make sure that all patients’ needs are
met.
“When people are really into their professions, it shows right away,”
said Sanks of the caliber of CRS staff. “These are people who are leaders
both in their professions and in their communities.”
>
For more information on Centers for Rehab Services, visit the web
site www.centers4rehab.com or call 1-888-723-4CRS (4277).
Spring 2008
SCHENLEY GARDENS COMPREHENSIVE
OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION FACILITY
‘Keeping the Body in Motion’
F
ocus your energy on healing and let the Outpatient Rehabilitation
Center at Schenley Gardens handle the details. The Comprehensive
Outpatient Rehabilitation Center at Schenley Gardens is a participating provider with most health insurance plans, including traditional and
managed Medicare, all Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield products, and commercial insurances. Our experienced, certified therapists coordinate your
individualized treatment with your family, physician, and insurance carrier.
Schenley Gardens Physical Therapy Program includes Gait and Balance
Training, Range of Motion and Strengthening, as well as Orthotic and
Prosthetic Training. When appropriate, Aquatic Therapy can enhance
recovery in a warm water therapy pool, which can be complimented by
whirlpool treatments. In conjunction with the Arthritis Foundation, there
are designated aquatic classes available to people of all ages with a diagnosis of arthritis.
In addition to physical and aquatic therapy, Schenley Gardens
Rehabilitation Center also offers Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy.
Psychological Services are available in conjunction with the treating physician’s recovery plan.
Located at 3890 Bigelow Boulevard in Oakland, outpatients may take
advantage of our free indoor parking and complimentary transportation services within a five-mile radius.
Respite Care Services (short-stay) are available in participation with
Schenley Gardens Assisted Living Community. Respite Residents can rest
assured that with 24-hour nursing care, three meals daily, private apartments, and an onsite Comprehensive Rehabilitation Center, they can focus
on efforts to improve their health.
>
To schedule your therapy service or for more information,
please contact the Schenley Gardens Rehabilitation
Center at (412) 621-4200.
ManorCare –
North Hills
(412) 369-9955
Providing post-surgical
and short-term
rehabilitation services.
For more information,
contact Chris or Beth.
&
P
r
i
n
t
Design
Services
• PUBLICATIONS AND REPORTS • FLYERS • NEWSLETTERS
• LOGOS • BUSINESS CARDS • ADVERTISEMENTS • COPYING SERVICES
Color Copies for as low
as 35 cents per copy
Call Nancy at 412-835-5796 or
e-mail [email protected]
JMC PUBLICATIONS, PRINTING, GRAPHICS & DESIGN
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 31
What is a Continuum of Care?
HEALTHY AGING
A
Reflections on Aging
The Success
Stories of Life
T
here are some people I work with
who are simply exceptional. Some
older people I work with are lively,
really intelligent and wonderfully wise. I
By Katherine Vojtko,
sometimes think of these residents as the
MA, MPH
success stories of life. By this, I mean that
they are not just survivors (having outlived the actuaries’ expectations),
but that they have achieved this feat while at the same time finding
enjoyment in life. Other attributes of the “success stories” include having close and loving marriages, and highly successful vocations.
So, it was especially troubling for me one day to learn that one of
these special people had been sick. She is quite elderly. A simple head
cold, that I could have trudged through with just a little wear and tear,
was not at all simple for her. The illness had kept her at home and in
bed for some time. When I saw her next I was disheartened to see her
so pale. But, this woman did not get to be her age for nothing. She knew
how to take careful and purposeful steps to get her strength back, and
she did.
I am so happy that she is still going strong. She is a success story of
life.
>
Katherine Vojtko, MA, MPH, vice president at Sherwood
Oaks Retirement Community, Cranberry Twp., can be
reached at [email protected].
continuum of care provides all levels of long-term care within a single network that focuses on the individual. Each component of care
compliments the others in a way that fosters a senior’s independence
and individuality.
The Southwestern Group’s Continuum of Care is situated on a picturesque, 40 acre, campus in the heart of Pleasant Hills. Founded in 1972 by
Dr. Philip Ripepi, this unique setting helps residents move from one level of
care to another when needed, with ease. The Southwestern Continuum of
Care is comprised of Southwestern Nursing Center, our Assisted Care
Residence, and Arrowood Independent Living.
The Southwestern Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center is a 118-bed
full service health care facility that offers long term and rehabilitative care
for the elderly, convalescing, and chronically ill. Since 1987, Southwestern
has provided 24 hour individual nursing and rehabilitation services, professional consultation for residents and families, therapeutic and recreational
activities, and regular or special meals planned by a registered dietician.
The newest addition to Southwestern is the Assisted Care Residence.
Opened in 2001, the facility offers care to those who are striving to remain
independent, but are in need of help with some activities of daily living.
Residents in Assisted Care enjoy either a private or semi-private suite, all
equipped with a kitchenette, as well as the security of 24 hour personal
assistance, daily meals, activities, outings and much more. Completion of
our Assisted Living enabled us to offer a true continuum of care..
Finally, Arrowood Independent Living community was developed in
1997. Comprised of 123 apartments, the building sits within a quiet wooded setting. Arrowood offers its residents fine dining without set meal times,
service is available anytime between 7 a. and 6 p.m. Other services available
include 24-hour security, a full schedule of activities, paid utilities (including cable), weekly housekeeping and linen services, free local transportation, and climate control in each apartment. Arrowood is retirement living
that does not require an entrance fee or long-term lease.
>
Connecting Home and Health
For more information on Southwestern Group’s Continuum
of Care, contact Nancy Austin, at (412) 469-6955.
Geriatric Care Management
Living Assistance Services
Homecare Nursing
Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy
Medical Social Services
Registered Dieticians
Home Health Aides
Hospice & Palliative Care
Call us for a Complimentary
In-Home Assessment
32 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
1-800-355-8894
www.celtichealthcare.com
Spring 2008
SENIOR RESOURCES
“The 40-70 Rule”
Local Company Launches Campaign to
Get Seniors and Their Families Talking
H
ome Instead Senior Care, a
company serving Greater
Pittsburgh has launched a
public education campaign to help
adult children talk to their senior
loved ones about difficult topics.
This campaign, called the ‘40-70
Rule,’ tackles such sensitive issues as
driving, finances, independence and
even romance. “The ‘40-70 Rule’
means that if you are 40, or your
parents are 70, it’s time to start the
conversation about some of these
difficult topics,” said Tim Lyon of
Home Instead Senior Care.
The campaign is based on
research conducted in the U.S. and
Canada by Home Instead Senior
Care, which revealed that nearly
one-third of adults in the U.S. have a
major communication obstacle with
their parents that stems from continuation of the parent-child role.*
In other words, it can be difficult to
get the conversation going because
the child is still in a child rather
than adult role with their aging
loved one.
At the center of the “40-70 Rule”
campaign is a guide of conversation
starters for sensitive senior-care subjects, which is available free from
the local Home Instead Senior Care
office. The guide was compiled with
the assistance of Jake Harwood,
Ph.D., national author and communication professor from the
University of Arizona who is the former director of that school’s
Graduate Program in Gerontology.
In general, the Home Instead
Senior Care survey found that
Boomers have the most difficulty
talking with their parents about
independence issues, such as continuing to live in their own home,
and that their parent’s desire to
remain independent makes it challenging to address such sensitive
issues as health and money. The fact
that many of these families are still
in a parent-child rather than a peerto-peer role makes the conversa-
ASSISTED LIVING
CAMBRIDGE BRENTWOOD
4220 Clairton Blvd., Rt 51 South
(412) 882-8400
www.cambridgebrentwood.com
Fresh off a multi-million dollar complete renovation, Cambridge
Brentwood is committed to being
“Pittsburgh’s Best Value in Assisted
Living”. Never worry about
unpredictable monthly bills or extra
charges with our simple allinclusive rates that feature everything a resident could need. Tour
today to experience the new
standard in affordable quality care.
HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
1-866-245-1106
homeinstead.com
HOMEWELL SENIOR CARE
724-837-6590
[email protected]
LIKEN HEALTH CARE
412-816-0113
www.likenservices.com
RETIREMENT LIVING
PROVIDENCE POINT
1145 Bower Hill Rd., Pittsburgh
1-866-608-3900
www.providencepoint.org
INTEGRACARE
THE RESIDENCE ON FIFTH
4700 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh
1-866-906-4046
www.IntegraCare.com
SHERWOOD OAKS
100 Norman Dr., Cranberry Twp.
1-800-642-2217
www.sherwood-oaks.com
EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICE
ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL LIFELINE
PROGRAM
412-942-2093
SCHENLEY GARDENS
3890 Bigelow Blvd., Oakland
412-621-4200
www.schenleygardens.com
HOME CARE
CELTIC HEALTHCARE
1-800-355-8894
www.celtichealthcare.com
SOUTHWESTERN GROUP, LTD.
500 Lewis Run Rd., Pleasant Hills
412-469-6955
www.southwesternhealthcare.com
COMMUNITY LIFE
1-866-419-1693
www.commlife.org
To be included in this directory,
call (412) 835-5796.
tions even more difficult.
Good communication is vital to
helping families know when it’s time
to seek additional resources.
“Oftentimes both adult children and
their loved ones can benefit from
outside help, such as a professional
caregiver,” said Lyon. “But the only
way that will happen is if they can
talk about it.”
*Survey Methodology: 1,000 telephone interviews were completed in the U.S. (sampling error
of +/-3.1 percent at a 95 percent confidence level)
and 500 interviews were completed in Canada,
excluding Quebec (sampling error of +/-4.4 percent at a 95 percent confidence level). Data analysis was performed by the Boomer Project of
Richmond, Virginia: www.boomerproject.com.
FREE
GUIDE
To get your free guide on the 40-70 conversation starters, call
your local Home Instead Senior Care office: Allegheny County:
Central (412) 731-0733, Northwest (412) 264-4700, Southwest
(412) 276-2400, Southeast (412) 884-6122 and Northeast (412) 4570066, Beaver and Butler Counties (724) 452-6691, Washington
County (724) 222-7700 and Westmoreland County (724) 836-5795.
Also, you may go to www.4070talk.com to download the 40-70
guide or do an online assessment. To get more information on Home
Instead Senior Care services, please call any of our local offices or
visit our website at www.homeinstead.com.
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 33
Marveling…
By Jim Mooney
I
sometimes regard these “Golden
Years” as a time for marveling. I
don’t mean simply marveling at
the fact that after all this time I’m
still here to marvel. I mean that
sometimes at night when sleep is
slow to come, I find myself marveling over all the changes that have
occurred during my lifetime. All I
have to do is pick a category and
think a bit.
Transportation: I remember, as a
kid, standing on the running board
of our family car helping my sister
fasten in place the isinglass curtainsthe windows-because it was threatening rain, or watching my father
with the hand crank trying to start
the engine. Today I sit in my air conditioned, push-button-operated auto
complaining only of the traffic and
gasoline prices. And I remember
playing ball on the street as a kid and
having the game interrupted when
one of the boys stopped, pointed
skyward and shouted, “Airplane!
Airplane!” Today, I look up on a
crisp fall morning and see the blue
sky scarred with contrails crisscrossing in all directions.
Communications: I remember listening on the radio to the Pirates
playing in St. Louis and Rosey
Rosewell broadcasting the game
from Pittsburgh. I could hear the
clacking of the telegraph as the plays
were relayed in to him by wire.
Today, thanks to television, I go
“live” to the World Series, the Super
Bowl, the Olympics, or a concert in
Vienna, a theater in London, anything imaginable. I can picture my
grandmother turning the hand crank
on the telephone mounted on the
kitchen wall and shouting because it
was long distance. I compare that
memory to the teenagers I see in the
Mall today, each equipped with a cell
phone that seemingly puts them in
touch with every other teenager in
the world-or better still an iPod that
does everything but brush their
teeth.
Medicine: I still have a scar on my
neck from “a poultice of hot oatmeal” tied round my neck when I
was a kid as a treatment for “swollen
glands.” So as I sit here today with a
heart that must resemble Medusa’s
head with its profusion of grafts from
bypass surgery, I know I wouldn’t be
here to be writing this if it weren’t for
the miracles of modern medicine.
SENIOR Matters
Word Processing: The first
“mechanical” device I used in writing was my sister’s primitive portable
typewriter. What I lacked in technique I made up for in powerful
strike-overs or paper-destroying erasures. By the time I’d finished college, I’d learned the keyboard, so
when I began working for a large
corporation after WWII, I was ready
to attack my Remington standard
with vigor, if not improved accuracy.
Although I was hired as a writerphotographer-or perhaps a “photojournalist”- I didn’t get to use a computer, a PC, until I retired. Now I
have instant “erasures”, spell check,
grammar check, etc.
Photography: I got my first camera when I was six that took out of
focus, underexposed pictures. I had
graduated to a 35 mm camera by
high school. I had my own darkroom
at home. I was unhappy at leaving
the darkroom behind when we
moved to the retirement community
at Sherwood Oaks. True, I now have
a digital camera, but what would I do
with all the slides and negatives I’d
accumulated? Today, beside my computer, sits a flatbed scanner that can
do almost everything my darkroom
could and do it better. With that
“darkroom in a box,” I can make
prints from b&w or color negatives,
color slides, photographs.
This rundown only scratches the
surface of the things I marvel at, but
I stop at the mention of computers. I
can’t even begin to imagine all the
ways in which computers have
affected my life. It’s too vast a
Pandora’s Box to open when I’m
lying there trying to get to sleep.
Jim Mooney is a resident of
Sherwood Oaks Retirement
Community in Cranberry, PA.
This article appeared in the September 2007
issue of North Hills Monthly Magazine.
Personal Emergency Response Service enables you or a loved one
to remain safe and independent in the comfort of their own homes.
• 24 hours a day/365 days a year
• Early intervention tool that results in reduced length of stay in the hospital
• Reduce unnecessary emergency room visits
Alll off thiss iss availablee att thee “touch
h off a button.”
Mention this ad to receive free installation.
Savings of $50.00
For more information contact St. Clair Hospital Lifeline at (412) 942-2093!
St. Clair Hospital Lifeline Program
34 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
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Falls Prevention

W
OULD IT SURPRISE
YOU TO KNOW THAT
35 TO 40% OF PEOPLE
65 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER
FALL EACH YEAR AND THAT
THOSE THAT FALL ARE 2-3
TIMES MORE LIKELY TO FALL
AGAIN. A majority of these falls
result in hip fractures and head
injuries. Of those hospitalized for a
hip fracture 40% never return home
or live independently again. Among
older adults, falls are the leading
cause of injury deaths and most common reason for emergency room
trauma admissions.
Serious falls and fall related
injuries impose a massive burden on
individuals, their families, and the
nation’s health care system.
By 2020, the estimated cost of fallrelated injuries is projected at 43.8
billion dollars a year for people 65
years of age and older.
All aging programs are focusing on
reducing falls and serious injuries
through fall prevention and methods
of obtaining emergency assistance
when a fall occurs.
Philips Lifeline has established a
checklist of fall prevention techniques. The Fall Prevention Brochure
assists in recognizing fall risks and
prevention.
Evidence strongly suggests that
falls result from numerous factors
that can be both natural to the individual’s health condition and within
the safety of their home environment. Concerns are focused on the
physical ability, home safety, medication management, and the environment or surroundings.
Medication management is another concern. Changes in concentration, dizziness or lightheadedness,
balance, and alertness can all be side
effects of medications or the mixture
of medications if not taken properly.
Review medications with your doctor
or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over the counter drugs can make
you drowsy and unsteady.
Methods to reduce falls in a home
include, but are not limited to,
installing grab bars in shower, tub,
and toilet areas; remove clutter;
check that wires/extension cords do
not cross a walking area; proper
lighting; paint edges of basement
stairs; remove or tack all throw rugs;
and store frequently used items
where you can reach them easily.
Home environment and surround-
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TECHNOLOGY AND DIRECTIONAL MICROPHONES THAT ENABLES YOU TO HEAR
AND UNDERSTAND SPEECH AND BACKGROUND NOISE 4HESE HEARING
INSTRUMENTSAREAVAILABLETOFITYOURLIFESTYLEANDYOURFINANCES
As a special promotion for
St. Clair Hospital Lifeline
will be offering free installation
which is a cost savings of
$50.00 for the months of
May and June 2008.
(412) 942-2093
ings also contributes to the escalating
number of falls. Uneven pavement or
surfaces, tree roots, slippery walking
surfaces, snow and ice can lead to
serious injuries especially if the person is not found for some time and
the weather is severe.
Now for some good news – Studies
have confirmed that getting help
quickly after a fall reduces the risk of
hospitalization by 26% and death by
80%, “South Medical Journal.” A
study reported in The New England
Journal of Medicine found that preventing falls and the resulting
injuries can reduce or delay the need
to move to a long-term care facility.
Systems that enable seniors to
summon help when a fall occurs are
personal emergency response services. St. Clair Hospital Lifeline Program is one service that ensures subscribers immediate assistance in the
event of an emergency. The waterproof, lightweight personal help button links the caller to Philips Lifeline
Emergency Response Center. The
monitor will contact family or
police/paramedics based on the situation.
Although most of the subscribers
live alone, there are still many who
live with their spouse or other family
members. Patients with medical histories of high blood pressure; stroke;
congestive heart failure; cancer; diabetes; recent hip fracture; breathing
problems; severe arthritis; MS; MD;
ALS and other chronic diagnosis benefit from the early intervention and
reassurance that Lifeline provides.
Additional Senior Fall Prevention Resources:
• Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers will provide home
inspections for any senior in the Allegheny County Area.
Contact them at (412) 687-6712.
• St. Clair Hospital Lifeline Program will upon request distribute Fall
Prevention brochures. Contact them at (412) 942-2093.
RESOURCES
Spring 2008
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The region’s
most trusted
source for
care in
the home.
Liken Health Care’s goal is to provide superior service while
enhancing the independence, comfort, and dignity of our
clients. Our Companions, Aides, LPNs, and RNs have been helping
individuals at home for over 30 years in Western Pennsylvania with:
bathing, personal care, overnight care, mobility, meals, light housekeeping, medication, and more.
Call for a free assessment and more information,
or visit our Web site:
412-816-0113
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 35
Boomer &Senior
Living
Options
Going. Going. Gone?
With Providence Point now rising,
availability is falling.
Sign up
now and
SAVE
$5-12K!
3 Levels of Senior Living
Retirement Living,
Assisted Care
& Skilled Nursing
(412) 469-6955
500 Lewis Run Road, Pleasant Hills
www.southwesternhealthcare.com
Learn about our
plan to build
new patio
homes!
Lifecare at
Sherwood Oaks
Thursday, May 29, 2008
at 1:30 pm
at Sherwood Oaks
Auditorium
Come to this free informational
seminar and learn about the
comfort and security of living at
Sherwood Oaks —
a lifestyle of distinction.
Call 1-800-642-2217 by
May 25 to reserve your seat.
100 Norman Drive, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066
www.sherwood-oaks.com
Providence Point is Going to be the premier
LifeCare community in the Pittsburgh area.
With many of the residences already
reserved, the opportunity to choose the
apartment or patio home of your choice
may soon be Gone.
Southwestern Group, Ltd.
Learn about
Construction Phase prices will be Going up –
save from $5,000 to $12,000.
Providence Point is currently under construction,
which means the vision is going from concept to
reality. And the reality is that there has never been
a better time to take advantage of our Construction
Phase pricing. And with additional savings, you’ll
realize that Providence Point is going to be more
than the home of your dreams – it’s going to be a
great value.
Call us at 412-276-4500, or call us toll-free
at 866-608-3900, to take advantage of our
construction pricing!
PITTSBURGH’S
FIRST CHOICE
IN RETIREMENT LIVING.
1145 bower hill road, suite 101
pittsburgh, pa 15243
www.providencepoint.org
During the past 98 years Baptist Homes has provided
and will continue to provide quality care to seniors at
the Mt. Lebanon campus
and at the new community
of Providence Point.
A part of UPMC Senior Communities
36 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
Positive Attitude is One Secret to a Long
and Happy Life, Says Irene Braddock
By April Terreri
Hungarian descent, so I
cook a lot of stuffed
rene Braddock’s active life might describe that of a much
cabbage dishes and
younger person. Irene, who will turn 94 on June 30, is a
kielbasa. I also
lot younger in spirit and mind than her chronological age
make Hungarian
would suggest. She is also a cancer survivor who beat the
pirogues which
disease for over 50 years beyond the day she discovered she
are stuffed with
Irene Braddock with her family at the
had breast cancer.
prunes
and
Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh Race.
Irene is the oldest breast cancer survivor who recently
rolled in buttered
walked in the Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh Race for the Cure
breadcrumbs.” Lindsay Painter, an administrator at The Residence,
held in Schenley Park. “This is a benefit to raise donations
adds that Irene really shines when The Residence has its monthly
for cancer research,” explains Irene. “People walked in the
women’s cook-off.
race in memory of women who died from the disease.”
Lindsay notes that Irene often leads the exercise group “because
Karl and Irene just
Irene wanted to participate in the race because she and her
she knows the ropes and she is able to keep everyone in line. She’s
after they were
daughter Eleanor Sero are survivors of breast cancer. She and
a real leader. When we have sing-a-longs here, Irene always leads
married (1940)
Eleanor entered the race in memory of Irene Fryer, Irene’s
them, as she knows all the words to all the songs.” Irene’s experieldest daughter, who died at the age of 63 from breast cancer. “Promoting ence as a singing waitress probably plays a big role here.
breast cancer awareness is very important to me,” says Irene. She says when
Another pastime Irene enjoys is feeding and watching the birds. “You can
she discovered she had breast cancer 39 years ago, it was a Friday and the always find her out on our patio feeding the birds when the weather is nice,”
following Monday she underwent a mastectomy.
says Lindsay. “When it’s cold out, she always finds someone to take breadIrene has a sparkle of enthusiasm and positive thinking that is infectious. crumbs out to the birds.”
She talks with a lot of pride about the days she used to work as a singing
Irene’s faith is very important to her. “I am a devout Roman Catholic and
waitress at Dutch Henry’s, a restaurant popular in the nightlife on Forbes I am a member of All Saints Church in Millvale,” she says. She goes to
Avenue several decades ago. “It was just a few doors away from the casino church with her daughter Eleanor and Eleanor’s husband every Saturday
and the burlesque theatre,” she says with a chuckle. She worked there for evening. “They come here to pick me up and then we go to St. Paul’s togethabout six years, before meeting her future husband, Karl, who is now er.” When she returns home, she makes her own dinner in her kitchenette.
deceased.
Ask Irene what her secret to a long and happy life is and she will quickly
Today Irene lives at The Residence on Fifth, where she’s lived for the past respond by saying with a chuckle: “First pick the right parents. Then surtwo years. “My daughter Eleanor thought it would be a good place for me round yourself with happy people and make sure you eat properly. And
to live, as I am hard of hearing and I have asthma and macular degenera- always make sure you have a positive attitude.”
tion,” says Irene.
For more information about The Residence at Fifth,
She has already made a lot of friends here, where she keeps busy exerciscontact Lindsey Painter at (412) 621-0900.
ing, walking, cooking, and baking. “I love to cook,” she says. “I am of
I
>
Claude Weagraff’s daughter
recommended IntegraCare to him.
Now he’s recommending
IntegraCare to you.
When you recommend something to someone, it means you really believe in it.
That’s why we’re pleased when our residents and their families express that
by recommending us to others.
We believe this happens so often because of what makes us so unique —
our Three Dimensional Care focus.
Dear Alison,
I would like to tell you how pleased I am
to be a resident of an IntegraCare
community. I am thankful my daughter,
Wendy, recommended this place....
...I was impressed by the beauty of my
new home and the friendliness of the
staff.... I would recommend an
IntegraCare community without
reservation.
The first “dimension” is our employees. Because the key to great care is great
caregivers. That’s why we treat our employees so well. If they are delighted to
be here, then our residents (the second “dimension”) will be well cared for.
If our residents are well cared for and delighted to be here, then their families
and friends (the third “dimension”)
will be glad they chose an
IntegraCare community.
We call it a win-win-win.
We believe you will too.
So if you’re considering Assisted
Living, talk to the provider
that comes highly recommended.
Sincerely,
Claude Weagraff
1-866-906-4046
4700 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh www.IntegraCare.com
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 37
PART 3:
WHAT YOU
NEED TO KNOW:
The Differences
Between Assisted
Living Facilities and
Skilled Nursing
Facilities
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
What we know 100 years
after its discovery
By Andrea L. Zrimsek
HEAD-HEART CONNECTION
S
ome of the strongest research links brain health to heart
health. The brain is nourished by one of the body’s richest networks of blood vessels. Every heartbeat pumps about 20 to 25
percent of your blood to your head, where brain cells use at least 20
percent of the food and oxygen your blood carries.
The risk of developing Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia appears
to be increased by many conditions that damage the heart or blood
vessels. These include high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke,
diabetes and high cholesterol. Living an active lifestyle and eating a
healthy diet can reduce your risks of both heart problems and brain
problems.
Keeping your brain active can also contribute to prevention of
Alzheimer’s, though there are no guarantees. The one thing about
Alzheimer’s that is difficult for many to grasp is that it does not
respect anyone. Much as a marathon runner in peak physical condition can die of a sudden heart attack, a healthy, active, mentally
engaged adult can be stricken with Alzheimer’s.
Sadly, DeKosky says, many people do not get to a doctor for an
Alzheimer’s evaluation because they don’t want to receive the diagnosis. Yet that same patient would more often than not seek out an
expert opinion if they were having chest pains or joint problems.
by Jodi McKinney
F
or a person who is about to
leave their home of possibly
30 or more years, it may seem
all the same – adapting to a new
environment. But when an individual or an individual’s family decides
that it’s time to increase the level of
care that an older adult receives, be
careful to pay attention to the
details.
There are two primary options for
older adults who need to change
their current living arrangements Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) and
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF).
The level of care needed often determines which type of facility is most
appropriate for that individual.
ALFs are for people needing assistance with aspects of daily living,
but wishing to live as independently
as possible - for as long as possible.
Assisted living serves to bridge the
gap between independent living and
SNFs. Residents in ALFs are not
able to live by themselves, but do
not require constant care either.
ALFs offer help with activities such
as eating, bathing, dressing, and
assistance with medications, yet do
not offer care as extensive as those
individuals in SNFs. The idea is that
the help is there if needed, yet independence is encouraged. The key to
>
understanding assisted living is that
it is not an alternative to SNFs, but
an intermediate level of care.
In many instances, ALFs team
with outside healthcare organizations, such as Celtic Healthcare, to
provide integrated care services.
Through Medicare and insurancecovered home healthcare services,
these healthcare organizations
enhance ALF residents’ health and
well-being significantly by bringing
their expertise in geriatric care.
Together, the ALF and healthcare
provider create a service plan for
each individual resident upon
admission. The service plan details
the personalized services guaranteed by the facility. The plan is
updated regularly to assure that the
resident receives the appropriate
care as his or her condition changes.
The explanation of an ALF
already introduced some of the
characteristics of a SNF. SNFs, also
known as nursing homes, provide a
living option where 24-hour medical care is available. In addition to
long-term care, residents may be
there temporarily for rehabilitation
before returning to either an assisted
living facility or their independent
living. Skilled nursing facilities are
regulated by the state, which defines
the services that an SNF must provide.
For more information about the differences between ALFs and SNFs
and/or Celtic Healthcare, please visit www.celtichealthcare.com,
call 800-355-8894 or e-mail [email protected].
B
ecause you care…
HomeWell is there.
Proudly serving all of Westmoreland County
Hourly and Live-In Companionship Available
♥ Meal Preparation
♥ Personal Care & Hygiene
♥ Errands
♥ Shopping
♥ Light Housekeeping
♥ Much More
116 East Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, PA
724-837-6590
[email protected]
National background and abuse checks • Bonded and Insured
VOTED ONE OF THE BEST HOME HEALTH AGENCIES IN WESTMORELAND COUNTY.
38 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
Spring Clean Your Finances
by John M. Pojeta, CRPC, Financial Advisor
As the first signs of spring arrive and you get the urge to clean your
house, don’t forget to tidy up your finances as well. Whether you are just
entering the workforce, peaking in your career or contemplating retirement, periodic cleaning will help keep your financial house in order. So
roll up your sleeves and get to work on this checklist of financial chores.
√
STRAIGHTEN YOUR FINANCIAL PAPERWORK
√
CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE
√
ANALYZE AND ADJUST YOUR BUDGET
√
REVISIT YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS STRATEGY
√
MONITOR YOUR HEALTHCARE SPENDING
√
ASSESS YOUR PROTECTION
√
REVIEW YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL GOALS
Are you hording copies of bank statements, cancelled checks and
other financial miscellany? It may be time to purge. Check into current guidelines on retaining financial records and shred excess documents that aren’t
required. Then date and store records you need to keep in a safe and private
location.
Every year you are entitled to a free credit report from three main
credit reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. If you haven’t
done so already, request a report from one of these agencies. Not only will you
be able to see where you stand, you can also monitor your credit for suspicious activity.
Take a close look at where your money is going each month and if
you’re working within your budget. Do you need to tighten your financial
belt? This task often reveals opportunities for trimming expenses and may
help you free dollars for other activities you enjoy.
Spring is the perfect time to air out concerns about your retirement
plan and reinvigorate efforts to save for your future. If you’re maxing out
your annual 401(k) contributions as recommended, consider supplemental
savings options to grow your nest egg.
With healthcare costs rising, you need to kick into high gear and
become a smart consumer regarding your healthcare spending. Use your
health savings account and take advantage of your Medicare drug benefit if
you are eligible.
Review your policies to ensure you have sufficient life, auto and
homeowner’s insurance. You could find that you are paying for too much
insurance. Contact your provider to inquire if you qualify for a good driver
discount or other savings opportunities. Look for further ways to save by
consolidating your business with one provider. Make sure your beneficiaries
are correct on your policies.
Where do you want to be next year? In five years? Consult a financial professional to review your finances and develop a plan to help you work
toward your goals. If you have a plan in place, check to see if it still makes
sense for you. Putting goals and action steps on paper may be the first step
to making your dreams a reality.
>
For more information, contact John M. Pojeta, CRPC, Senior Financial
Advisor, Ameriprise Financial, Inc., at (412) 319-2000 ext. 259.
This column is provided for informational purposes only. The information is intended to be generic in
nature and should not be applied or relied upon in any particular situation without the advice of your tax,
legal and/or your financial advisor. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors or representatives provide tax or legal advice. The views expressed may not be suitable for every situation. Consult with qualified tax and legal advisors concerning your own situation. Financial planning services and investments
offered through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC. ©2008 Ameriprise
Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
Spring 2008
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 39
BODIES…The Exhibition
at Carnegie Science Center
C
ancer. Obesity. Stroke. Heart
disease. Open a newspaper,
and you’re almost certain to
find an article on one of these common and deadly health risks. But
how many of us actually understand
what they mean, and how they
affect the body?
Open at Carnegie Science Center
through May 4, BODIES…The
Exhibition offers an opportunity
previously available only to medical
students: the chance to see the inner
workings of healthy and unhealthy
human bodies.
BODIES…The Exhibition offers a
close-up look into the skeletal, muscular, respiratory, nervous, circula-
tory, reproductive, digestive and urinary systems, featuring 15 full-body
specimens and more than 200 additional organs and partial specimens.
These meticulously-dissected bodies are preserved using plastination,
an innovative process that replaces
bodily fluids with liquid silicone
rubber. This polymer preservation
technique allows visitors to view
individual body systems in isolation, from the body’s 60,000 miles
of blood vessels to individually-preserved organs – some healthy, some
diseased.
“One of the primary benefits of
BODIES…The Exhibition is its ability to show the consequences of
healthy and unhealthy lifestyle
choices,” said Ron Baillie, the
Science Center’s chief program officer.
Among the specimens is a heart
bearing scar tissue from a myocardial infarction (commonly known
as a heart attack) and a cross-section of brain showing a pool of
blood resulting from a stroke.
Smokers’ lungs are contrasted with
healthy lungs. A healthy liver sits
next to a cirrhotic liver damaged by
years of alcohol abuse.
“These aren’t models; these specimens are real,” said Baillie. “BODIES…The Exhibition presents the
facts of human anatomy, health and
disease while neither exaggerating
nor sugar-coating the real health
risks that we confront. More
importantly, it demonstrates how
humans have responsibility for and
control over many aspects of their
health.”
The Science Center also offers a
series of in-depth lectures on medical breakthroughs, guided tours of
the exhibit, kid’s classes and workshops, and more. For details, check
www.CarnegieScienceCenter.org.
>
BODIES…The Exhibition is
in Carnegie Science Center’s
SportsWorks® facility
through May 4, 2008. Tickets are
$14 for Carnegie Museums of
Pittsburgh members and $10 for
member children, or $22 for nonmember adults and $16 for children.
For more information and tickets to
BODIES…The Exhibition, visit
www.CarnegieScienceCenter.org.
May 17, 2008
8 a.m.
RAIN OR SHINE!
27th Annual
Community
Run/Walk
For more information,
call (412) 777-6313
The hottest venue for your
favorite music and IMAX® films.
Friday and Saturday nights rock
with IMAX® films and laser shows.
Special pricing when you do both.
It’s an out-of-this world experience!
Visit us online or call for schedules.
www.CarnegieScienceCenter.org
One Allegheny Avenue | Pittsburgh, PA 15212 | 412.237.3400
40 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
2008 SUMMER CAMPS for Children with Special Needs
Starts May 7
SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES
PROGRAM
The Early Learning Institute for toddlers
18 mos. to 3 years.
A socialization, play and movementoriented playgroup. Six weekly
sessions are offered from 10:00 –
11:30 a.m.; parent/caregiver participation is optional. Sessions are offered
at The Early Learning Institute’s centers
located in Kennedy Township and
Castle Shannon. Class size is limited to
12. $50 for 6 sessions. For more
information call 412-331-3560
(Kennedy Township) or 412-884-5227
(Castle Shannon)”
June 15 – August 16
FITCH ON LAKE ERIE
Route 215, North Springfield,
Erie Count
Overnight camp with wide range of
programs in its 94th year, operated by
the YMCA of Youngstown, Ohio.
Traditional as well as swim, soccer,
distance running, music. Other
activities: rock climbing, sailing, paintball,
water skiing, horseback riding, etc.Also
camps for diabetes and orthopedic
patients.Ages 8-18. For more
information, call (330) 744-8411 or
visit www.campfitch.com.
WISP (Watson Institute
Summer Program)
Locations in Allegheny, Butler, Beaver,
Fayette, and Washington counties
The WISP Program provides children
with autism spectrum disorders an
opportunity to enjoy the day camp
setting. Cam STAT (Summer Therapeutic Activities for Teens — a four-week
program for teens with Asperger’s or
high-functioning Autism June 16-July 11
and July 14-Aug. 8).Ages 3-15 or Teen
Cam STAT: 13-21. For more
information, call (412) 749-2895 or
visit www.thewatsoninstitute.org.
ACHIEVA
Camp Spencer, 286 Narrows Road,
Fombell
Residential overnight camp serving
children with intellectual and
developmental disabilities.Traditional
camp activities (outdoor recreation,
crafts, etc.) adjusted to meet their
needs.Ages 5-99. For more
information, call (724) 775-1602x13 or
14 or or visit www.achieva.info.
WOODLANDS FOUNDATION
134 Shenot Road, Bradford Woods
Weeklong overnight camps for all ages
with disability, chronic illness or special
needs. Activities include sports,
aquatics, arts and crafts, nature
exploration, music performance and
appreciation, and spiritual awareness. .
(Most camps go to age 18;Young Adult
Camp goes up to age 30).Ages: 8-30.
For more information, call (724) 9356533, www.woodlandsfoundation.org.
June 23 • JUlY 14
WATERDAM ACADEMY FOR
SPECIAL NEEDS
4160 Washington Road, Suite 202,
McMurray
• Keys to Comprehension
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Reading Skills
• Note Taking & Study Skills For the
Middle & High School Student
• Social Skills and Early Language Skills
for Children on Autism Spectrum
• Improving Math Skills Using Touch
• Improving Spelling Skills For All Ages
• Readiness & Early Language Skills for
PreSchoolers Thru Second Grade
• Test & Score Boosters For All Ages.
Two three week sessions beginning
June 23rd and July 14th. Intensive 2
week session offered in mid-August for
certain classes to get ready for school.
Information and Registration received
by calling 724-255-4263.
June 23 – July 18
CONDUCTIVE EDUCATION
CAMP
Children’s Institute, 1405 Shady Ave.,
Squirrel Hill
For children ages 2-18 with cerebral
palsy and other motor disorders.
Focuses on building self-reliance and
functional skills.Teachers lead small
groups of children through activities
that help them improve skills in sitting,
standing, walking and other functional
activities. For more information, call
(412) 731-3070.
July 7 – August 15
INTERCARE’S
ADVENTURE CAMP
331 Hickory Grade Road,
South Fayette
Camp program for children who are
experiencing social, emotional, and/or
behavioral challenges. Six, one-week
sessions offered; children can sign up
for more than one session. For ages 6
to 12. For more information, call (412)
257-4238 and ask for Gail
Killmeyer.
Parents of Children With Special
Needs…
July 13-18
Go to www.guidetogoodhealt
h.co
m
WPSD Summer
for more stories, information
just for you!
Break Out Camp
Western Pennsylvania School for
the Deaf, 300 E. Swissvale Ave., Edgewood
for ages 14-16. For more information,
Five nights, six days of nonstop action
call (412) 824-1181 ext. 4608 or visit
and adventure for deaf and hard-ofwww.diabetes.org.
hearing children (swimming, ice skating,
movie nights, field trips, etc.).Ages 6August 4-8
17. For more information, call (412)
VARIETY FOR KIDS
371-7000 or visit wpsd.org.
The Woodlands, 134 Shenot Road,
Bradford Woods
July 13-18
One-week annual summer day camp
DIABETES CAMP
for children with disabilities and their
Crestfield Camp, Crestfield
siblings. Provides opportunities for arts
The American Diabetes Association’s
and crafts, swimming, adaptive sports,
Diabetes Camp offers swimming, a
speakers and special presentations, and
challenge course, canoeing, hiking, arts
many, many other recreational,
and craftss. Campfire activities highlight
educational and therapeutic activities
the evenings with songs, games, and
and programs. For ages 6-21. For more
discussions. Diabetes Camp is for
information, call (412) 747-2680.
ages 8-14. Pioneer Camp Experience
Waterdam Academy for
Special Needs
Support and Instruction For
A placement option for school districts
in Allegheny and surrounding
counties, serving kids
• Language Disorders • Speech Therapy
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Reading & Comprehension Difficulties
• Processing Disorders
K-9 with emotional challenges or autism
Our mission is to
provide educational
and therapeutic
services that enable
any child to thrive.
Spring 2008
Pace School utilizes the Sanctuary] Model
to create a trauma sensitive
VICKI R. SKRAITZ, M. ED.,
environment where healing can occur.
LICENSED SPEECH & LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
2432 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Phone: 412-244-1900 Fax: 412-244-0100
4160 Washington Road, Suite 202 • McMurray, PA 15317
www.paceschool.org
724-941-2100 • 724-255-4263
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 41
D IRECTORY
In order to choose a health professional
who is right for you, you need information.
The following guide is a good place to start.
ADDICTION
GATEWAY REHAB
800-472-1177
www.gatewayrehab.org
AESTHETICS & WELLNESS
REJUVENATE, INC.
South Hills – 412-831-0777
Cranberry – 724-776-0777
AIR QUALITY
TRANE
“Breathe Better. Live Better.”
Contact your local Trane
dealer at trane.com
BOXING & PERSONAL TRAINING
DIPOFI SCHOOL OF BOXING &
PERSONAL TRAINING
Edward DiPofi, Coach & Trainer,
United States Amateur Boxing Assoc.
Certified Personal Trainer, ISSA
412-680-8142
CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS
THE RICHARD G. LAUBE CANCER
CENTER AT ACMH HOSPITAL
(724) 543-8682
CARDIOLOGY
JEFFERSON CARDIOLOGY
ASSOCIATION
412-469-1500
www.jeffersoncardiology.com
CAREERS IN HEALTHCARE
ACMH SCHOOL OF RADIOLOGIC
TECHNOLOGY
724-543-8206
LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF
OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
814-866-6641 • www.lecom.edu
CELIAC DISEASE CLINICAL
RESEARCH STUDY
RESEARCH PROTOCOL
MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS, INC.
412-942-0010
CHIROPRACTIC
SOUTHPOINTE CHIROPRACTIC
& FITNESS
724-873-0700
www.southpointechiropractic.com
COMMUNITY HEALTH/
STROKE SURVIVOR CONNECTION
HEALTH HOPE NETWORK
412-937-8350
www.healthhopenetwork.org
COSMETIC SURGERY
AMELIA PARE´, M.D.
412-831-2554 • amypare.com
www.pittsburghplasticsurgery.net
DENTIST
DR. ROBERT LUTHER
412-788-6300
www.pittsburghlaserdentist.com
STEVEN R. CRANDALL, DMD
Cosmetic, Implant &
Restorative Dentistry
412-833-6166
TranscenDENTAL Centre
412-235-2500
www.ExperienceComfort.com
EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICE
ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL LIFELINE
PROGRAM
412-942-2093
EYE CARE
CROSSROADS EYE CARE
ASSOCIATES
724-941-1466
LIFE COACHING
DIANA FLETCHER
Confidential, telephone
coaching sessions.
724-733-7562
www.dianafletcher.com
HEALTH MANAGEMENT SERVICES
AMERICAN HEALTHCARE GROUP
412-563-8800
www.american-healthcare.net
MOBILE FITNESS SERVICES
FUN ‘N FIT
724-290-7172 • www.funnfit.us
HEARING
TRINITY HEARING AID
1-800-309-3888
HOLISTIC BODYWORK
MARY CICCOLA
Accredited Bowen Practitioner
724-747-6272
BowenworkAcademyUSA.com
HOME CARE
LIKEN HEALTH CARE
412-816-0113
HOSPICE
FAMILY HOSPICE AND
PALLIATIVE Care
1-800-513-2148
www.familyhospice.com
GATEWAY HOSPICE
1-877-878-2244
HEARTLAND
Home Care • Hospice • IV Care
1-800-497-0575
heartlandhospice.com
HOSPITALS
ACMH HOSPITAL
One Nolte Drive, Kittanning
724-543-8500 • www.acmh.org
CANONSBURG GENERAL HOSPITAL
1-877-284-2000 • www.wpahs.org
PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY AND
STRABISMUS, INC. SURGICAL
ASSOCIATES
724-772-3388
www.pos.eyemd.org
FINANCIAL ADVISORS
FITNESS CENTERS
HEALTHTRAX FITNESS &
WELLNESS
100 Higbee Drive, Bethel Park
412-835-0500
www.healthtrax.com
PITTSBURGH’S OHIO VALLEY
GENERAL HOSPITAL
1-800-441-6550
www.ohiovalleyhosptal.org
THE WASHINGTON HOSPITAL
724-225-7000
www.washingtonhospital.org
AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL
John Pojeta
412-319-2000
OB/GYN
ACMH HOSPITAL OBSTETRIC
SERVICES
One Nolte Drive, Kittanning
724-543-8182
www.acmh.org/services/ob.html
ORTHODONTICS
GOOD ORTHODONTICS
111 Washington Street, Washington
724-225-1114
22 Old Clairton Road, Pittsburgh
412-655-4660
677 Washington Road, Pittsburgh
412-344-4663
[email protected]
ORTHOPEDICS
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES
McMurray, Bethel Park, Washington
724-941-0111
TRI-COUNTY ORTHOPAEDICS
McMurray - 724-969-0715
Washington - 724-225-8657
Pittsburgh - 412-460-1020
Charleroi - 724-489-0120
Waynesburg - 724-627-6948
PAIN MANAGEMENT
CENTER FOR PAIN RELIEF, P.C.
Jay L. Karpen, M.D.
(724) 942-5188
PAIN TREATMENT CENTER
412-777-6400
THE PAIN MANAGEMENT CENTER
AT ACMH HOSPITAL
Kittanning, PA
724-543-8622
acmh.org/services/pain/index.html
REMEMBER
to sign up for
your subscription
LOW INTRODUCTORY PRICE OF $7.99. To receive your own copy direct mail, send your check to
Western Pennsylvania Guide To Good Health, 2574 Oldfield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15102.
Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City: __________________________________________ State:______________ Zip: _____________________________________________________________________
Phone:___________________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________________________________________
Your thoughts on the GTGH: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
42 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Spring 2008
PERMANENT MAKEUP
COSMETIC SOLUTIONS
724-745-7550
www.mycosmeticsolutions.com
PERSONAL TRAINING
RDP STUDIO LTD.
412-818-1599
www.rdp-studio.com
PHYSICIANS
ACMH HOSPITAL
See our web page for a complete list of
ACMH Hospital physicians!
acmh.org/physician/index.php
WASHINGTON PHYSICIAN
HOSPITAL ORGANIZATION
PROVIDER NETWORK
See pages 22-23 for listing of
WPHO Doctors!
REHABILITATION
ACMH HOSPITAL REHAB SERVICES
724-543-8145
acmh.org/services/rehab.html
SMOKING CESSATION
CENTERS FOR REHAB SERVICES
A Partner of UPMC
Over 40 locations in Western PA
1-888-734-4CRS (4277)
SPECIAL EDUCATION
PACE SCHOOL
412-244-1900
www.paceschool.org
HAND & UPPER EXTREMITY REHAB
SPECIALISTS
(724) 942-5410
WATERDAM ACADEMY FOR
SPECIAL NEEDS
Vicki R. Skraitz, M.Ed.
724-255-4263
724-941-2100
HEALTHSOUTH
1-877-937-REHAB
PODIATRY
THE HAND CENTER
OF PITTSBURGH
1145 Bower Hill Road
412-429-1980
www.handcenterpgh.com
DR. KAREN LUTHER
& ASSOCIATES
Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C.
724-941-9440
REHABILITATION AND PAIN
SPECIALISTS
412-963-6480
RADIOLOGY
ACMH HOSPITAL IMAGING
SERVICES
724-543-8131
ARMSTRONG OUTPATIENT
IMAGING, LLC
87 Glade Drive, Kittanning
724-543-8787
SLEEP DISORDERS
ACMH SLEEP DISORDERS LAB
724-543-8846
CENTER POINTE SLEEP
ASSOCIATES
1-800-249-1445
www.centerpointesleep.com
TOBACCO FREE ALLEGHENY
412-322-8321
www.tobaccofreeallegheny.org
VITAMINS
JUDI’S VITAMINS & HERBS
412-403-8233
www.mynsp.com/jrobbins
WOUND CARE
WOUND CARE CENTER
412-250-2600
THE WOUND HEALING CENTER
AT ACMH HOSPITAL
724-543-8536
acmh.org/services/wound.html
YOGA
SCHOOLHOUSE YOGA
412-401-4444
www.schoolhouseyoga.com
To be included in our Directory Listing, call 412-835-5796 or e-mail [email protected]
Spring 2008
Visit Us Online At
PUBLISHER
Nancy Carroll Lammie
EDITORIAL MANAGER
Judy Gramm
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Cathy Emanuele, Harvey D. Kart
Alison Wilkie, Margie Wilson
DESIGN & LAYOUT
JMC Graphics
[email protected]
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
John Fries, Nancy Kennedy
Vanessa Orr, Ron Paglia
Lois Thomson, April Terreri
Andrea Zrmsek
MARKETING/CIRCULATION
Robert & David Lammie
_________________
HOW TO REACH US:
[email protected]
PHONE: 412-835-5796
FAX: 412-835-8190
2574 Oldfield Avenue
SUBMISSIONS: Unsolicited stories
and photographs are welcome for
consideration.
The Guide To Good Health is published
quarterly (4 issues per year) by JMC
Publications. The contents of this publication
may not be reproduced in whole or in part.
All rights reserved.
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 43
Orthopedic
Excellence
Our team of dedicated
healthcare professionals
are committed to
providing services
that exceed
your expectations.
Gregory B. Christiansen, M.D.
John M. Gibbons, M.D.
Patrick T. McCulloch, M.D.
Michael J. Scheel, M.D.
David M. Welker, M.D.
Specializing in Sports Medicine
Joint Replacement
Joint Arthroscopy
Peripheral Neuropathy
Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
(724) 941-0111
McMURRAY
5000 Waterdam Plaza Drive
Suite 240
BETHEL PARK
180 Fort Couch Road
Suite 400
WASHINGTON
95 Leonard Ave.
Suite 202
Southwestern Pennsylvania Orthopedic Associates