Too many Americans are living with pain. Certainly, there are innumerable reasons for people to experience discomfort from some specific part of the body. But one in particular, affecting far too many Americans, and often inadequately addressed, is the scourge that is chronic joint pain. Unfortunately, far too often, recurring pain from some joint is explained away, completely minimized, by being labeled simply as our old friend “Arthur-Itis.”
Read MoreThe “baby boomers” are aging and, consequently, America is getting old. The percentage of US residents that are senior citizens has increased significantly. The elderly population has grown by 15 percent over the course of a decade. By 2050, seniors will make up 20 percent of the United States, a significant number in any discussion of healthcare. A significant health hazard for these individuals are falls. The direct costs of these accidents by seniors totaled over 20 billion dollars in one year. In 2000, ten thousand fatal falls occurred to seniors, a number that jumped to 41,000 in 2022.
Read MoreIt is too common an occurrence, people living with foot pain. They perform their job ably, spend time with their family, participate in the usual activities. But chronic pain detracts from quality of life and interferes with our enjoyment of life. Recurrent foot pain can even serve to impair our health since increased pain as a result of increased activity will function to reduce activity. Being less active isn’t good for cardiovascular health, our metabolism, muscle fitness, etc. The human body needs to move.
Read MoreI don’t like causing pain. Maybe it’s a psychological thing…..but, regardless, I dislike hurting people. And yet, as a physician, there are some situations where it is unavoidable. (I’m hoping this sentiment is true for most healthcare providers but I’ve read no survey on the topic.) Because of this aversion, I’ve sought out ways to minimize the discomfort associated with many invasive procedures.
Read MoreBeing a parent is challenging these days, with our offspring exposed to all manner of dangerous germs and internet dangers. Our children’s health is understandably important and when they have problems, most parents want to resolve the issue. But what if it’s a mystery? The sudden development of a painful foot can lead a parent to desperation. Why would a 10 year old suddenly be unable to run without pain?
Read MoreThose who have traveled extensively will be well acquainted with the vagaries of ‘breakfast’ as a concept, as a practice, as a meal. The American breakfast is infamous for its excess, with its multiple components, requirements for starches, the abundance of protein sources, the reliance on frying. A nutritionist might say this meal typically is less than optimal. But there’s obviously an exception: the incredible, edible egg.
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