Enhance magazine April/May Issue

Kansas City

H E A LT H a n d W E LLN E SS

the scents and senses of spring

A p r i l / M ay 2009 w w w . e n h a n c e 4 l i f e . co m

Did you know?

There is a difference in patient care.

“I really don’t know how they could improve on anything; they did an amazing job. I was totally surprised that a small hospital – well that’s just it; it is a small hospital so they have the right employees to do the job and can be very attentive to their patients. The staff takes their time with you; you are never rushed. I felt that everybody was on top of my case, they answered my questions completely and were just great.”

HSSH Patient, Trudy H.

To learn more, visit www.hssh.org/changinghealthcare or call 1-800-362-4774

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SPINE & SPECIALTY

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www.primodentist.com 4831 West 136 St, Suite 200, Leawood, KS 66224 Proudly serving Leawood, Overland Park, Merriam and Grandview

from the editor

revive! spring has arrived Smells, sounds, tastes… how quickly they can take

days gone by. Quite a storyteller himself, those shared moments will forever hold a special place in my memory.

Spring is a great opportunity to shape the rest of your story. As the earth awakens, trees bud and flowers bloom – what a perfect time to embrace nature, get moving and get healthy! We’ve highlighted a few hiking trails that are perfect for a day trip.

Whether you are looking for an adventure, a fun family outing or peaceful animal and bird watching, the beautiful trails in our community are a wonderful and active way to engage in the bounties of springtime.

As you think about ways to connect with family and friends, time together can be a cherished memory. Create your own tradition and plant a garden, experience nature at one of the community walking trails or just spend time listening, being in the present.

Revive! Choose to awaken with spring and relish this life we’ve been given!

And as Paul Harvey would say, (long pause) “Good Day!”

lsteffey@enhancepublications.com

Letha A Steffey 785-691-9780

Portrait © Denise Williams

enhance magazine

us back in time.

Planting a garden is a wonderful way to connect with the past through our senses and invest in a healthy future for our families. Flowers, vegetables or fruit – no matter how much space you have this spring, you too can enjoy the beauty and local flavor of the season!

Perhaps you’ll consider carrying on the tradition of early settlers by including a lilac bush in your landscape.

Graced with natural beauty and a perfect complement to the garden, the lilac can flourish beautifully for hundreds of years. Another nostalgic bloom is the delicate white lily of the valley. In contrast to the lilac’s strong, widespread scent, the lily of the valley offers a light, refreshing fragrance. Known as the “ladder to heaven” because of its bell shape, it is the birth flower of May. Some of my cherished memories were shared with my Grandpa, sitting in his office inside what was once a booming produce house. Each day at noon, after the market report, we listened to Paul Harvey’s “Hello America” broadcast. Harvey’s melodious voice took us back to a simpler time, when people stopped to listen.

During the recent eulogy of his father, Paul Harvey Jr. said, “A great tree has fallen,” quoting his father’s send-off for President Franklin Roosevelt.

For 57 years, Paul Harvey’s five-minute “The Rest of the Story” historical vignettes brought an unforgettable sense of nostalgia to the national radio airwaves. We were reminded of our rich history and given an opportunity to connect with one another. The vignettes were a perfect aperture for Grandpa to engage in one of his lively, humorous stories of

Sensitivity

Understanding and compassion surround you when you visit a women’s health specialist at Truman Medical Centers. We know the health of every woman is different, so we believe her healthcare should be too.

Whether it is mammograms, menopause, pregnancy or delivery, our person-first approach puts patients before profits which means our doctors never have to compromise on care. Our dedication and sensitivity to differences is just one example of why we have earned the trust of thousands of women and recognition as a Center of Excellence in Women’s Health. Discover Truman Medical Centers.

For a well-woman’s consultation, call 816.404.3855.

www.trumed.org

without compromise.

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O ever-returning spring!

Trinity sure to me you bring; lilac blooming perennial, and drooping star in the west.

– Walt Whitman

60 27

34 46

38

44

Clockwise from top left: © Istockphotos.com / Jams Steidel; © Denise Williams; © istockphoto.com / Donald Gruener; Christian Misje; © Strauss Peyton; © istockphoto.com / Denis Pogostin; Albert Lozano

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in this issue

KAnsAs City

H E A lt H A n d W E l l n E s s

the scents and senses of spring

spring sensations 38

Farmers Markets Find the first taste of spring in healthy, home-grown food at local farmers markets.

46

Seasonal allergies Finding clarity amid the haze of spring.

27

A p r i l / M Ay 2 0 0 9 w w w . e n h a n c e 4 l i f e . co m

Volume 1, Issue 4 April/May 2009 Executive Editor Letha A. Steffey Creative director Dennis Esser

Wine Vacations Tailor your next holiday to sample the fruit of the vine.

Art Director and copy editor Colleen Cooke

local interest 44

Missys’ Mirror A local non-profit appearance center brings hope and healing to cancer patients.

58

Reproductive resource center Helping women expect the best.

14

Walking trails Take a hike this spring in the KC area.

52

Kindergarten Farm Food Initiative Apples, broccoli, carrots: The ABC’s come from the farm.

23

34

Breathe easier How hyperbaric oxygen therapy works.

60

Electrotherapy From muscle pain to Parkinson’s, electrotherapy is making its mark.

64

Modern orthodontia Braces aren’t just for teenagers anymore.

Contributing Writers Ryan Brown, Paige DeRuyscher, Kerry Hinrichs, Heather Winslow Gibbons, Quinn Katherman, Michael Levine, Dr. Andrew Moore DDS, Trieste VanWyngarden ADVERTISING To advertise, please call Mark Williams, mwilliams@ enhancepublications.com 913-269-9227 Publishers Mark Williams, Letha Steffey Enhance Magazine is published by Enhance Publications. Any information contained within this publication should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a licensed physician.

Enhance Publications, its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, designers, and its Editorial Board of Advisors (“Publisher”) accept no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions with information for the claims made by Advertisers. Publisher expressly assumes no liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by any patient, purchaser or user for any products or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein. You expressly agree that your use of the information in Enhance is at your sole risk. Photographs of any model in Enhance in no way suggest or imply that the subject has undergone any procedure or used the products showcased. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy in the information provided. Enhance Publications assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes, or omissions.

Photography and material in the publication as well as design may not be copied or reproduced in any form without the written permission of: Enhance Magazine, 7111 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS 66223.

Phone: 913-269-9227, Fax: 913-322-1099 mwilliams@enhancepublications.com All rights reserved. ©2009 Enhance Publications.

www.enhance4life.com

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© Istockphotos.com / Ranplett

health focus

Upcoming runs and walks Get some exercise and help a good cause.

Contributing photographers Jonathan Braswell, Preston Cope, Jenny Wheat, Denise Williams

Foot+Ankle Injuries Sprained ankles are among the most common orthopedic injuries. A sprained ankle occurs following a sudden sideways or twisting movement of the foot.

An ankle sprain can occur during athletic events or during everyday activities.

How does an ankle sprain occur?

A sprained ankle usually occurs when a person lands from jumping or running on an uneven surface. But they also occur with more routine daily activities such as stepping off a curb or onto a slippery surface.

What happens inside the ankle when it is sprained?

An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligament in the ankle. The ligaments are structures that control excessive movement of the joint. When an ankle sprain happens, the ligament is stretched too far, and is either partially or completely torn.

Symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Common symptoms associated with an ankle sprain are pain with swelling and bruising. The degree of symptoms tends to correlate with the extent of the damage to these ligaments.

Early treatment options?

Tips for preventing sports injuries 1 Warm up prior to any sports activity.

2 Condition your muscles for the sport.

Gradually increase the time you spend on the activity over a period of weeks to build both muscle strength and mobility.

3 Choose athletic shoes for your foot type. People whose feet pronate (turn the sole of the foot outward) or with low arches need shoes that support the front and under the arch. Those with a stiffer foot or high arches need more cushion and a softer platform.

5 Replace shoes when the tread wears out.

Runners should replace shoes every six months.

6 Avoid running on uneven surfaces.

7 Be careful running too many hills.

Also be careful when running downhill too fast, which can lead to more injuries than running uphill.

8 Prevent recurrent injuries. Athletes with previous ankle injuries may benefit from using a brace or tape to prevent recurrent ankle injuries.

9 Listen to your body.

Early treatment of an ankle sprain is the “RICE” method.

Rest + Ice + Compression + Elevation

Do I need to see the doctor if I have a sprained ankle?

If you have significant symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

Signs that should raise concern include: n Inability to walk on the ankle n Significant swelling n Symptoms that do not improve quickly or persist beyond a few days n Pain in the foot or above the ankle

If you experience foot and ankle pain during a sport, stop the activity or modify the activity until the pain subsides.

Differentiating between a sprained ankle and an ankle fracture can be difficult, and sometimes an x-ray is needed. While moderate pain and swelling are common, the inability to place weight on the leg, numbness of the toes or pain that is difficult to manage should raise concern. Certain injuries that don’t heal within the expected time frame may require surgery.

Brian E. Healy M.D.

David J. Clymer M.D.

Scott R. Luallin M.D.

Greg R. Van den Berghe M.D. Matthew T. Kneidel, M.D.

Valerie A. Deardorff, M.D.

We’ll get you back in the game.

Carondelet

Orthopaedic Surgeons, P.A. Specializing in Orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, foot & ankle issues, hand and upper extremities and shoulder injuries.

Jenny Chandra, M.D.

Bill Hussey, Administrator

913.642.0200 | www.c-ortho.com

health bits

10

Few flowers have earned such a devoted following as lily of the valley. Perfect little bells, early in the season. An easy ground cover for shady areas. A welcome reminder that spring has arrived or is just around the corner should you elect to force the blooms indoors.

The birth flower of May, the lily of the valley has the flower meaning of humility, chastity, sweetness and purity.

A native of Europe, it has a flower meaning of the return of happiness.

Often in bridal arrangements for the sweet perfume, lily of the valley can be grown in sun or shade and is a beautifully fragrant groundcover.

According to legend, the lily of the valley came from Eve’s tears after she

was kicked out of the Garden of Eden.

It is also called “the ladder to heaven” because of its bell-shaped flowers hanging down from the stem.

The specific name for lily of the valley is majalis, which means “that which belongs to May.” They are also known as “fairy ladders” in Ireland.

Despite its beauty and sweet connotations, the lily of the valley is poisonous. The only poisonings recorded have occurred when someone drank the water from a vase of lily of the valley flowers.

As directed by professionals, lily of the valley is also used in herbal medicine as a poison antidote, for the heart and epilepsy.

“Lilies of the Valley” by local artist Michelle Lynn, whose creative style evokes emotion through her work.

913-620-0344 www.michellelynngallery.com

© istockphoto.com / Susan Daniels

enhance magazine

lily of the valley

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Skin is waterproof. It regenerates. It keeps us cool. It keeps us warm. It is, in fact, your body’s largest organ. And, just like the rest of you, it deserves plenty of TLC. That’s our job. Johnson County Dermatology offers a full range of general and surgical dermatologic services. Our physicians and highly trained staff use the most advanced technology available to help with:

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Indeed, your skin is magnificent. We help you keep it that way. Please, call us.

We can assess your skin condition and develop a personalized healthcare regimen that will keep your magnificent skin in the game. /')$-,*$''(+

Get in the Game!

Don’t let injury keep you on the sidelines

Injuries happen. But you don’t want to live life on the sidelines… you want to play!

The orthopaedic specialists at the South Kansas City Surgicenter understand this better than anyone.

Equipped with the most advanced technology and training in the area, our elite team specializes in …

• Arthroscopy: Knee, Shoulder, Ankle and Wrist • Foot and Ankle Surgery • Hand Surgery We take care of you like family,

SKCS Orthopaedic Specialists Susan K. Bonar, M.D.

David J. Clymer, M.D.

Matthew T. Kneidel, M.D.

Valerie A. Deardorff, M.D.

Scott R. Lualin, M.D.

Brian E. Healy, M.D.

Gregory R. Van den Berghe, M.D.

so you can stay in the game.

Visit our Web site for a complete listing of specialists.

913.901.9000 | www.skcsurgicenter.com 10730 Nall Avenue | Suite 100 | Overland Park, KS 66211

health bits

get moving!

May is National Bike Month, and the week of May 18 is Bike to Work Week.

Kansas City Cycling The Urban Kansas City Community of Cycling www.urbankccc. com

The Greater Kansas City Bicycle Federation www.kcbikefed.org

Kansas City Bicycle Club www.kcbc.org

www.trails. com/biking - for thousands of bike trails and maps

In spring, the axis of the Earth is tilted toward the sun and the length of daylight rapidly increases for the relevant hemisphere. The hemisphere begins to warm significantly causing new plant growth to “spring forth,” giving the season its name.

The blossoming of a range of plant species and the activities of animals, or the special smell of soil that has reached the temperature for micro flora to flourish. The first swallow to arrive or the flowering of lilac may be the indicator of spring.

Lilacs carry an aromatic scent that carries

quite a distance. Unfortunately, lilacs bloom for only a brief few weeks in the spring.

Lilacs in the United States date back to the mid 1750s. They were grown in America’s first botanical gardens and were popular in New England. Both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson grew them in their gardens.

Lilac bushes can live for hundreds of years, so a bush planted at that time could still be around. Lilacs originated from Europe and Asia, with the majority of natural varieties coming from Asia. In Europe, lilacs came from the Balkans, France and Turkey.

Did You Know?

There are over 1,000 varieties of lilacs. They come in several colors, with the most popular being the color lilac and purple. White and pink are also popular.

They also vary widely in size from the small four- to eight-foot varieties to types that can grow up to 30 feet.

enhance magazine

From top: © istockphoto.com / Hamurishi, Denise Torres

lilacs: the scent of spring

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health bits

take a hike Walking trails in the Kansas City area

Powell Gardens Located 30 miles east of Kansas City on US Hwy 50 in Kingsville, Mo., 816-697-2600; www.powellgardens.org The Byron Shutz Nature Trail is a 3.25-mile nature trail that takes visitors to the wild side of Powell Gardens.

Marked with 24 interpretive signs, the trail winds past lotus- and frog-filled ponds, through woods of Osage orange and honey-locust and into an abandoned field of meadow flowers. The trail is also a haven for butterfly and birdwatchers.

James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area One mile east of Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit on Ranson Road and 1.5 mile south of Highway 50.

The Shawnee Trace Nature Trail is tucked in the back of this 2,456-acre wildlife area and makes up three interconnected, unpaved trails, each about a mile long.

All the hiking is easy, which makes this a good family adventure.

Burr Oak Woods In Blue Springs, 1.1 miles north of I-70 on Hwy 7, then west 1 mile on Park Rd. There are five trails at Burr Oak Woods and an outstanding nature center. Nearly 70 percent of Burr Oak Woods is forested and contains a wide variety of tree species.

Additional natural features include glades, fields, rock outcrops, ponds, wildlife, streams and native grass plantings.

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Bluffwoods Conservation Area

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Nine miles south of St. Joseph at the intersection of Highway 59 and Bethel Road.

The areas encompass almost 2,400 acres of rugged, sometimes very steep loess hill bluff land. The Bluffwoods area has numerous service roads and several established trails for hiking. The Forest Nature Trail is disabled accessible while the Lone Pine, Maple Falls and Turkey Ridge Trail loops offer scenic overlooks of the Missouri River floodplain looking west into Kansas. Over 100 woodland species of wildlife can be found on Bluffwoods, which has been designated as an Important Bird Area.

Perry Lake From I-70, take US 24 highway to Perry, Kan.; www.perrylaketrail.net This 29-mile trail offers a range of terrain and difficulty from easy, gentle slopes in the south to rugged, varying elevation changes in the north. Many folks refer to the Perry Lake area as the “Little Ozarks,” a tribute to the beautiful, tree-covered hills that characterize the Delaware River watershed.

Clinton Lake, Lawrence, Kan. http://baldwin-city.com/rec/clintonlake/hike.html Four hiking and wildlife trails: n The Backwoods Nature Trail & Nature’s Way is a .6-mile looped trail guiding you through the eastern Kansas woodlands. Nature’s Way is a discovery trail for children. n South Shore/Rockhaven Trails consist of many interesting trails that total about 50 miles.

The trails are open to both hikers and horseback riders. n The George Latham Hiking Trail at Woodridge is about 4.5 miles long and meanders through forest, open fields and along the shoreline and returns to the trailhead. n The North Shore Trail is seven miles long and passes through an oak/hickory forest as it follows the lake shore.

Shawnee Mission Park 79th and Renner Road in Shawnee, Kan., 913-888-4713 A multi-use, 1,236-acre park. For hiking and biking trails in Johnson County, visit http://www.jcprd.com/parks_ facilities/trailguide.cfm

Lawson, Mo., 816-580-3387 www.mostateparks.com/wwmill/index.html Bicycling and hiking: The 3.8-mile asphalt bicycling and walking trail follows the shoreline of the lake. The circular trail can be accessed at several points along the west side of the lake, and from the northern picnic area.

Equestrian trail: About 3.5 miles long; bicycles are not permitted on the horse trail.

enhance magazine

© istockphoto.com / ATVG

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park

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Don’t let spring fever lead to aches and pains It’s that time of year when we start more physical activities like gardening and sports. It’s also the season of muscle strain.

Muscle aches and pains can involve more than one muscle. Muscle pain also can involve ligaments, tendons and fascia, the soft tissues that connect muscles, bones and organs.

Muscle pain is most frequently related to tension, overuse or muscle injury from exercise or physically demanding work.

In these situations, the pain tends to involve specific muscles and starts during or just after the activity.

In more severe cases of straining injuries, actual tearing of the muscle and connective tissue can occur.

Spasms can result in significant pain. And added stress to the supportive spinal structures can lead to ruptured discs and “pinched nerve” sensations.

If you experience this type of pain lasting longer than three days, seek evaluation from a Pain Management Specialist.

MOST COMMON CAUSES ■ Injury or trauma including sprains and strains ■ Overuse: using a muscle too much, too soon, too often PREVENTION ■ Regular exercise can help restore proper muscle tone.

■ Warm up before exercising and cool down afterward.

■ Stretch before and after exercising.

■ Drink lots of fluids before, during, and after exercise ■ If you work in the same position most of the day (like sitting at a computer), stretch at least every hour.

■ Get plenty of sleep and try to reduce stress

WHEN YOU’RE IN PAIN, NO ONE AND NOTHING ELSE SEEMS TO MATTER. Pain interferes with your daily life, takes away your ability to enjoy simple tasks, sometimes even keeps you from getting a good night’s sleep.

And the worst of it is, although you know your pain is real, it’s often hard to get others to understand what you feel.

KC PAIN CENTERS CAN HELP. MEET OUR DOCTORS

We practice pain management exclusively, and we offer a wide spectrum of today’s state-of-the-art pain treatments.

STEVE CHARAPATA, MD

CURTIS JOHNSON, MD

HOWARD AKS, MD

JAMES SCOWCROFT, MD

JOEL ACKERMAN, MD

Our progressive, growing group provides care for nearly 35,000 patients annually in two private clinics and in six hospitalbased locations within

MARK CHAPLICK, DO

ATEF ISRAEL, MD

REBECCA BURFEIND, MD

THOMAS LAUGHLIN, MD

GEORGE EDWARDS, MD

the metro area.

KC Pain Centers To arrange a consultation: 816-763-1559 Outside the metro area: 1-800-200-PAIN

www.kcpain.com

health bits

Friendship research Attention seventh- and eighth-graders! Spend time with your friend and help us learn about friendships. The Friendship Research Team at KU is conducting a project to learn about friendships and what it takes to make and keep good friends during the junior high years. Parents and children each receive $10-20 iTunes or Target certificates for completing surveys and activities. For information call 785-864-5702 or learn more at www.myspace.com/kufriendshipstudy.

laugh it up!

enhance magazine

Health benefits of humor and laughter Laughter activates the chemistry of the will to live and increases our capacity to fight disease. Laughing relaxes the body and reduces problems associated with high blood pressure, strokes, arthritis and ulcers.

Source: www.helpguide.org

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A good hearty laugh can help: n

reduce stress n lower blood pressure n elevate mood n boost immune system n improve brain functioning n protect the heart n connect you to others n foster instant relaxation n make you feel good

mother’s day: sunday, may 10 Here are a couple of ideas of how to spend quality time with mom this Mother’s Day.

Visit Powell Gardens n

enjoy an outdoor performance by Brookside Brass n picnic outdoors n tour the gardens n www.powellgardens.org

Kansas City Express Mother’s Day 5k Run/Walk The event begins at 8 a.m. Sunday, May 10, and is exclusively for women and girls. This fun event informs, motivates and inspires women to exercise for better health. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the American Heart Association.

Dads and kids can visit the Family Fun Zone during the race and join you for great food at the finish line.

Corporate Woods, bdlg. 40 9401 Indian Creek Pkwy Overland Park, Kan. Rain hotline: 913-643-1460 E-mail: terrymann@mararunning.org www.kcexpress.org

Glasses: © istockphoto.com / Nuno Silva; lily: © Preston Cope

April is Humor Month The sound of roaring laughter is far more contagious than any cough, sniffle or sneeze. Humor and laughter can cause a domino effect of joy and amusement, as well as set off a number of positive physical effects. Humor and laughter strengthen our immune systems and help us recover from illness, as well as bring joy into our lives.

rejuvenating experience of sipping a flavorful tea carries with it an almost endless list of health benefits The

featuring HigH grade loose leaf teas

• Black, oolong, green, pu-erh, white, herbal tisanes BuBBle teas

• All kinds of flavors –not just made out of tea, but are also made with milk or fresh fruit, and can be shaken, steamed or blended with ice.

• High quality espresso drinks and other beverages are also served alongside delicious gourmet pastries and snacks. variety of tea Hardware (unique pots, cups, etc.)

WeSTPOrT 4111 Pennsylvania Kansas City, MO 64111 Hours: Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Thur-Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

816-531-9600

www.teadrops.us

health bits

Local Resources

Dragonfly Boba Tea and Bakery 15153 W 119th St. Olathe, Kan. 913-254-1115 www.dragonfly bakerykc.com Blue Koi Two locations 816-561-5003 www.bluekoikc.com

Possible Bubble tea flavors n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

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n

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n n n n n

strawberry green apple passion fruit mango lemon grape lychee peach pineapple cantaloupe honeydew banana kiwi taro coconut chocolate coffee mocha barley sesame almond ginger lavender rose violet

bubble tea Need a skip in your step?

Bubble Tea is right around the corner Originating from Taiwan, Bubble Tea began to gain popularity in major North American cities in the late 1990s, especially those on the West Coast and East Coast and in Texas with large Asian populations.

The distinctive characteristic of bubble tea is the presence of chewy translucent balls of pearl tapioca (that sit at the bottom of the glass).

Bubble teas are generally of two distinct types: fruit-flavored teas and milk teas. However, some shops offer a hybrid “fruit milk tea.” Milk teas may use dairy or non-dairy creamers.

Tapioca balls of big and small sizes are of course the prevailing chewy tidbit in bubble tea, but a wide range of other options can add equally tantalizing texture to the drink.

Bubble tea kits for making bubble tea at home can also be purchased from online shops. What can you lose? Try Bubble Tea and see if these bubbles give you a jolt of cheer!

© istockphoto.com / Tupporn Sirichoo

Tea Drops 4111 Pennsylvania Ave. Kansas City, Mo. 816-531-9600 www.teadrops.us

?

There is no guessing when it comes to success.

We encourage you to learn as much as possible, so you can be confident about the decisions you make.

We are the region’s most experienced in helping infertile couples become parents.

We’re also the region’s leading innovator with a full range of treatment options ranging from minimal therapies to high-tech procedures.

So learn the facts, check the stats.

Visit www.rrc.com or call (913) 894-2323.

Rodney Lyles, M.D. • Celeste Brabec, M.D.

REPRODUCTIVE RESOURCE CENTER 20 years of Innovation

SHOP, LEARN…

BE HEALTHY! Mother Nature’s Health Market provides the finest quality fresh, natural, organic and whole foods, nutritional products, body care products and health information in a fun comfortable clean, safe environment.

344 South 291 Hwy, Liberty, MO 64068 816-415-4638 • fax: 816-415-4639

• Friendly, knowledgeable staff – you will always be greeted!

www.mothernaturesmkt.com

• Gluten-free products

STORE HOURS Mon-Sat: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sun: noon-4 p.m.

• Free range eggs, meat, poultry • All major supplement lines

No one cares for you like mom

Get ready for summer!

The season of shorts, swimsuits and summer dresses is almost here – schedule your permanent hair reduction today!

PERMANENT HAIR REDUCTION IS AVAILABLE FOR:

Legs ❖ Underarms ❖ Bikini ❖ Chest/back ❖ Face ❖

Aesthetic Medical Centre 10600 Quivira, Suite 260 • Overland Park, KS 66215

913-322-6840 www.yourselfimage.com

health bits

hug it out:

national hug holiday 14 types of hugs

May 3-9 is the 26th annual National Hug Holiday.

n

Side-to-thigh Back-to-front n Shoulder to shoulder n Bear n Cheek n Custom-tailored n Grabbersqueezer n Group n Guess who n Heart-to-heart n Sandwich n Side-to-side n Top-of-the-head n Spoon n

Hugging is the universal language for love and it knows no barriers where there is an open heart. For more information: www.hugs4health.org.

Benefits of touch Touch releases two feel-good brain chemicals, serotonin and dopamine.

Therapeutic touch has also been shown to reduce stress and pain among adults, and reduces symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, such as restlessness, pacing, vocalization, searching and tapping.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/ ?expert=Dorothy_M._ Neddermeyer,_PhD

upcoming runs/walks Sunday April 19, 9 a.m.

Sunday, April 19

Kansas Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K Lawrence, Kan. kansasmarathon.com

Sunday, April 26, 8:30 a.m.

Woofstock 5K Run or 1mile Walk (dog friendly) http://pcnaws.com or www.active.com John Aust, 816-560-0987 Sunday, April 26, 7:45 a.m.

The Trolley Run – 4 -mile course www.trolleyrun.org, Susan Beiger Angulo 816-841-2284, ext. 2017

Saturday, May 2, 8 A.M.

Sunday, May 10, 8 a.m.

Tuesday, May 26

Race for the Summit 5K Walk/Run, Lee’s Summit, Mo., www. every1church.com/5k Rachel Andrisevic, 816-524-4966, ext 29

Mother’s Day 5K Overland Park, KS mothersdayrun.com

Amy Thompson Run 8K & 2mi – KCMO amythompsonrun.org

Saturday, May 9, 8 a.m.

Truman Run 5K - Independence, Mo. www.trumanrun.org

Sunday, May 17, 8 a.m.

Saturday, June 6

Steps to the Cure 5K, Overland Park, Kan. Katie, 913-341-8828 www.parkinsonheart land.org

Hospital Hill Half Marathon, 10K & 5K – KCMO, www.hospital hillrun.com Saturday, June 13

Rock Chalk…Run!, 10k, 5K - Lawrence, Kan., www.rockchalkrun.com

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© istockphoto.com / Lisa Gagne

5k & 10k Broadway Bridge Run for Special Olympics bridgerun@kcpd.org and www.somo.org Bryon Price, 816-234-5254

| http://kansascityrunning.com/cal.php |

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Ancient healing wisdom and modern chiropractic technology: • Chiropractic • Acupuncture • Applied Kinesiology • Cinical Nutrition • Detoxification • ZERONA LipoLASER® • Cold Laser

Dr. Evan Mladenoff, DC

Dr. Diana Mladenoff, DC

913-491-1071 Dedicated to your wellness needs and interests 11021 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66210

www.MladenoffClinic.com

No dieting, no crunches, no liposuction and still lose inches? Yes you can!

New Zerona LipoLASER® is now in Kansas City – only at Mladenoff Clinic.

Lose up to 10 inches from your hips, tummy and thighs in two weeks or less.

No dieting, no exercise, no needles or liposuction! Safe, easy, painless and FDA approved.

The long-anticipated FDA-approved Lipo-LASER by Erchonia has arrived at Mladenoff Clinic in Overland Park, Kansas.

ZERONA® is a new body-sculpting procedure designed to remove fat and contour the body without invasive surgery.

The non-invasive laser helps the body absorb fat by stimulating biological function. Excess fat is then removed naturally by the body without the negative side effects and downtime associated with more invasive procedures such as liposuction.

ABOUT THE PROCEDURE

During the procedure patients most often do not feel anything, the laser that is being administered is a low level laser that does not produce heat, it is completely noninvasive, and has never shown any recorded side effects.

Low Level Lasers have been in use for over 40 years for treatment of many different conditions such as chronic pain, wound healing, and many other orthopedic conditions.

• The 100% painless process requires six 40-minute treatments performed over the course of two weeks.

• During the procedure, the laser light is visible, but there is no sensation during or after the treatment.

• There is no pain, no swelling, no needles, no bruising and no recovery time.

• Normal activity resumes immediately.

• The treatment works for both men and women.

• The most commonly treated areas are the lower abdomen (belly), flanks (love handles), buttocks and thighs.

• Other treatment areas can include the neck, arms, back and knees.

This is not a quick weight loss program. We target the adipose tissue to remove the excess fat and successfully shape the body for a more desirable outcome.

With the ZERONA® treatment you now have an alternative to a shapelier figure without having to endure the fear and sometimes painful process of a surgical procedure.

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pure. safe. beneficial.

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Around the world with three

Wine Journeys

A brilliant redhead once sang: “the sun will come out tomorrow;” fortunately for us Kansans and Missourians that describes this time of the year when, yes, being outside is the norm and yard work is coming back in to the picture.

As the weather evolves in to the warmer months, many of us seek to experience something outside of our own little part of the world. Enter: a vacation or, better yet, a wine experience away from home. When

traveling (for work or for pleasure) I tend to check out local wine shops, liquor stores and even super markets to see what the locals love.

For the sake of the economy (and our shrinking savings accounts), I would like to talk about three unique wine adventures. Some are relatively inexpensive and some will require you to make a bigger investment in your future travel plans.

Tailor your next vacation to sample the fruit of the vine

By Michael A. Levine

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Globe: © istockphoto.com / Rich vintage; couple: Galina Barskaya; postcard: Norma Zaro

! e r e h e r e w Wish you

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complementary health

m o r f s g n i Greet

a i n r o f i Cal Napa Valley, California

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From the southernmost part of California near San Diego to the northern section just past San Francisco, a wine lover can encounter some 2,000 vineyards boasting more than 60,000 labels.

So where to begin? Napa Valley is home to some of the most popular wineries. Plan at least three to four days to experience Napa. You will never see it all, but it will certainly whet your appetite!

Start out with a cooler of bottled water, cheeses, meats, baguette, etc. to keep in the car. Keeping hydrated and fed throughout the day will maximize your wine tasting experience.

At wineries with multiple tasting areas, seek out the reserve rooms, where they offer wines that are only sold at the vineyard. Go for the styles that are not offered in town. If you find options you like, be sure to ask if they are sold in Kansas or Missouri. Remember you can’t carry bottles on airplanes anymore. Packing is risky but is doable if done right.

Most wine tastings will charge you for sampling (between $5 and $25/person). Be thrifty and split a tasting with friends if you can.

Lodging Think of Napa as a strip of very expensive land running north and south along California Hwy. 29 (just north of Oakland and Sacramento). Look for properties to the east and west of this road.

Recommendation: Stay in Yountville, about a third to half the way up Hwy. 29. Great little B&Bs (www.bordeaux house.com and www.yountvilleinn. com) as well as serious hotels (www.villagio.com and www.napa valleylodge.com) are available. For a comprehensive list of places to stay: www.napavalley.com.

Sights to see n

Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in St. Helena (www.ciachef.edu/ california) n COPIA: The American Center for Food, Wine and the Arts in Napa proper (www.copia.org). n The CIA at Greystone features cooking classes, an amazing gift shop and one of the only Wine Spectator Restaurants in the U.S.

On the Web

Many vineyards have Web sites offering hours of operations, tasting schedules, tours and special events. www.napavalley.com has a great list of wineries plotted out on a map. Pick a starting point and plan from there.

Restaurants Bouchon (little sister to Thomas Keller’s French Laundry with an easier time getting a reservation and a few less shekels spent): www.bouchonbistro.com $$$) n Mustard’s Grill (www.mustardsgrill.com $$) n Taylor’s Refresher (http://taylorsauto maticrefresher.com $) n Brix (www.brix.com $$).

Most restaurants allow you to bring in a bottle of wine; call them to be sure and get the corkage fees ahead of time. Rules of the trade include not bringing in cheap/ inexpensive bottles (No Two Buck Chuck please) as well as not bringing in a bottle that is already on their wine list.

Background: © istockphoto.com / Creative Eye99; Napa: Andrew Zarivny

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go west, wine lovers

complementary health Missouri wineries

buy local, drink local Did you know that Missouri wineries are among some of the oldest wineries in the country? Wine in your backyard was being produced long before some of the more commercialized properties in other parts of the U.S. The Missouri winery district was the first official wine district (AVA) in the country.

Area wineries are popular for locals who want to do some wine tasting as well for those just passing through the state. You can make a day trip out of it by visiting those located north of Kansas City or even just southeast of Columbia.

For a bigger adventure, create a weekend outing by taking a trip to the east side of the state and set yourself up with a bed and breakfast. You could even splurge on a chartered limousine to get you from vineyard to vineyard.

Local favorites n

Adam Puchtas’ Norton near Hermann, Mo. www.adampuchtawine.com n Jowler Creeks’ Critter Cuvee near Platte City, Mo. www.jowlercreek.com n Chaumette Vineyards’ Traminette about an hour south of St. Louis in Ste. Genevieve, Mo. www.chaumette.com n Les Bourgeois’ Rocheport Port www.missouriwine.com All four options are solid wines and sold at various retailers in the greater Kansas City area. There are about 25+ quality wineries to choose from throughout the state. For a list of vineyards and places of interest, go to www.missouriwine.org or www.missouriwinecountry.com

Location, location

Missouri wine country shares similar latitudinal locations with California’s Napa/Sonoma as well as France’s Bordeaux and Italy’s Tuscany (generally between the 38th and 43rd parallel).

Expert opinion “Missouri wines are grown in soil that may seem harsh to vegetables and other plants. Much of the soil that Missouri wines are grown in is full of gravel, sand and slate. It is thought by some wine growers that wine grapes increase in taste and value the more they are forced to work to stay alive and survive. Missouri wines also profit from the warm weather found much of the year in Missouri. Warm weather is needed to grow wine grapes, and in particular at least 100 days of sunshine are needed to grow good wine grapes.” – Missouri State Tourism Board

Heartland enhance magazine

Grapevine: © istockphoto.com / Bruce Bean

Wine from the

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Š istockphoto.com / Joe Biafore

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complementary health

complementary health Tuscany, Italy

A wise man once said you’ll never eat a bad meal or drink a bad bottle of wine in Tuscany … wait; that might have been me after our last trip to the famed Italian wine region!

Tuscany is filled with hundreds of small towns each filled with charm, history and, most likely, surrounded by historic vineyards producing quality wines. With vineyards everywhere it is easy to select a town to use as your base. We used the medieval village of San Gimignano (www.sangimig nano.com) as our base, which allowed us to venture out in to various parts of Tuscany including Chianti, Florence Siena and Pisa.

Our wine-tasting adventure was orchestrated by local sommelier and tour guide Carla Giomi (www.abcwine.it). Carla was an Internet find of a few months earlier and we took a chance off of a pedestrian Web site design and a few good e-mails.

Carla also offered tours through Montalcino (Brunello) and Montepulciano (Vino Nobile) as well as our tour of Chianti.

The tour was extremely laid back but very educational. Our travels began as we traversed out of San Gimignano and then on to the hills of Chianti. First stop was a small-scale Chianti producer called Cennatoio (www.cennatoio.it) located just outside the town of Panzano.

Leandro Alessi is not only the owner of the property but also the head winemaker and chief ambassador for the fine wines they produce. The Alessis craft more than a dozen styles of wine – not typical for Italian vineyards – and they are exporting more and more to the U.S. every year. Their wines are not household names, mainly because they only produce a few hundred cases of each, but they do score quite well with the critics (and the author of this article as well).

Currently, they are sold only in Virginia, Maryland, New York City and Missouri.

! a l l e b , o a Ci

y n a c Tus

Some Sights to see

Tuscany to-do

n Podere

Narrow down what it is you want to accomplish while in country. What do you want to see and do? If wine country really is on your agenda, you have a couple of options: touring on your own (this will require more pre-planning as wineries are not as commercialized and welcoming to the public as in the U.S.); or you can use a professional guide.

Ciona near Gaiole www.podereciona.com n Vignavecchia near Radda www.vignavecchia.com n Villa Trasqua near Castellina www.villatrasqua.it

Helpful hints n

English is often spoken, but you shouldn’t expect it. If English is not spoken, you’ll normally get by with a little basic Italian (bring your phrase book). n Some wineries have small shops where you can just pop in and buy the estate’s wine, as well as extra virgin olive oil or balsamic vinegar. These are usually signed with the words: “Vendita Diretta.”

Cost conventions Wine tastings are either free (but then you are expected to buy) or offered at a fee which can vary from vineyard to vineyard. Some do organized tastings and tours, but you should inform yourself before going as you normally will have to book ahead of time. Many wineries require that you phone to make an appointment or let them know that you are coming.

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© istockphoto.com / XXNO6

going old school

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health and wellness The entire medical community has posed questions regarding hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) – what are the long term effects, possible side effects and the most important question of all: does it work?

Story By Ryan Brown PHOTOS By JENNY WHEAT

BREATHE

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easier

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What is oxygen therapy?

So how does hyperbaric oxygen work?

“A patient is enclosed in a vessel, and the oxygen level is increased to be more than sea level,” says Jeff Mize, RRT, CHT, the program director of Hyperbaric Oxygen of Kansas City, and the Wound Healing Center of Mid-America.

“It dramatically increases the oxygen level in the blood and tissue and can deliver up to 15 times more oxygen to someone beyond normal respiration.”

Administering oxygen as a natural treatment for a person’s ailments was first conceived as a treatment for decompression sickness, or “the bends,” for scuba and deep-sea divers. While ascending from underwater, nitrogen gas bubbles can form in the lungs,

tissues and bloodstream. Blood flow may be blocked, often with disastrous results, and the blood vessels may be damaged. Oxygen treatments help to neutralize the effects of the nitrogen.

Patients undergoing HBOT are placed in a chamber where 100 percent oxygen is circulated. The oxygen is pressurized so that the air pressure is two to three times greater than normal.

This allows the lungs and skin to absorb more concentrated oxygen in a shorter period of time.

What are the benefits of oxygen therapy?

Hyperbaric treatment has been used to treat a variety of ailments for patients – some with proven results and others

where the findings were inconclusive.

However, a number of maladies will see positive results with HBOT therapy, including: n Skin grafts and flaps – the success of grafts is largely dependent on sufficient oxygen supply to the affected area. Hyperbaric treatment can be used to saturate the area with oxygen before and after grafting. n Crush injuries – such as from motor vehicle accidents, falls and gunshot wounds. n Carbon monoxide poisoning – carbon monoxide binds to red blood cells, blocking delivery of oxygen to the body. HBOT accelerates the clearance of carbon monoxide from the body, restoring oxygen delivery

health and wellness

The hyperbaric oxygen vessel at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

The Healing Powers of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment

Problem Wounds

Anemia/Blood Loss

Wounds might fail to respond to standard care because of low oxygen levels and impaired circulation. Foot ulcers in diabetics are one such problem. By promoting oxygen levels within the wound tissues, hyperbaric therapy promotes healing.

In cases where a patient cannot accept a blood transfusion for medical or religious reasons, sufficient oxygen delivery (via red blood cells) might be compromised. Hyperbaric treatment increases the oxygen content of existing red blood cells.

Soft Tissue Infections These are serious infections that cause the tissue to die and can be complicated by conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease. While primary treatments are removing the infected tissue and administering antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen may inhibit bacteria from growing and enhance the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria.

Burns Hyperbaric therapy is sometimes used to treat burns to the hands, face or groin area or for deep second-degree and thirddegree burns that cover more than 20 percent of the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body. The treatment reduces swelling, limits progression of the burn injury and may diminish lung damage from inhalation of heat and smoke.

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Photo Š Jenny Wheat

The UHMS has approved the use of hyperbaric oxygen treatment for several conditions besides the bends.

The length and number of treatments depends on the condition and the severity.

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health and wellness Patient Resources Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society – www.uhms.org Hyperbaric Oxygen and Wound Healing Center of Mid-America St. Joseph Health Center 1000 Carondelet Kansas City, Mo. 64114 816-943-4600 www.kchyperbarics.com

and preventing toxic effects on the central nervous system and blood vessels.

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In most cases, the act of breathing combined with a healthy network of veins and arteries provides enough oxygen for body tissues to heal. However, in some circumstances, hyperbaric oxygen treatment is used to substantially increase oxygen flow within tissues to improve healing.

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A Patient’s Guide to Treatment A typical hyperbaric treatment will last one to two hours, depending on the patient’s needs. While painless, a patient may experience fullness in their ears, similar to what someone would experience on an airplane. This sensation is the result of the additional pressure being exerted on the eardrums. Typically, the feeling can be remedied to avoid any irritation during the treatment.

“Most of our patients feel an

immediate impact and benefit from their first treatment,” Mize says. “However, some cases will require multiple treatments before the patient feels the full effect of oxygen therapy.”

Once inside the chamber, the oxygen will begin to circulate and a slight increase in temperature during the compression stage. Once the desired pressure is reached, a patient can sleep, read or watch television until the treatment is over.

“The treatment itself is extremely comfortable and relaxing for the patient,” Mize says. “We want the person in the chamber to be totally at ease with what is happening, and we try to make the experience a pleasant one.”

Most hyperbaric oxygen treatments are covered by insurance, but a patient should check with their carrier before proceeding.

“Not a miracle cure” Oxygen treatment has been linked as

a possible treatment for a multitude of afflictions, including autism and strokes.

While hyperbaric oxygen treatment can provide relief for some patients, Mize warns that it is definitely not a cure-all for every ailment.

“HBOT is not the miracle cure that some patients make it out to be,” Mize says. “There is not enough clinical evidence to support the claim that oxygen therapy can cure or help with autism or someone getting over a stroke.”

Anyone looking to investigate oxygen therapy as a possible solution should first check the facility’s credentials. While many places will offer HBOT treatments, only a select few across the country are accredited by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.

“A reputable place will be upfront with a patient regarding their expectations,” Mize says. “If HBOT cannot do what a patient wants, then the clinic shouldn’t perform the treatment just to perform the treatment.”

Photo © Jenny Wheat

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy The University of Kansas Medical Center 3901 Rainbow Boulevard Kansas City, Kan. 66160 913-588-6586

HEALTHYKC H ealtHyPeoPle = H ealtHyCom m u n ity

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Spring is sooner recognized by plants than by men.

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â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chinese Proverb

Š istockphoto.com / Brendon De Suza

health and wellness

complementary health

The first taste of

Spring Farmers markets bring healthy, home-grown goodness to our backyards

Forget Paris – springtime in Kansas City is something to savor!

April brings a colorful array of local farm fresh foods as farmers’ markets around the city begin to reopen and KC comes alive again.

We’ve shared a bit with you about the slow food movement – choosing foods produced in-season by local growers. This has a significant impact on the vitality of our community and the condition of our environment.

With an array of flavorful markets to choose from, spring is the perfect opportunity to try buying local. We’re certain you’ll taste the difference!

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© istockphoto.com / Alison Stieglitz

By Paige DeRuyscher

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complementary health

a few farmers markets in our area The City Market Open year-round March–October in the River Market near 5th and Walnut Saturdays 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Sundays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Wednesdays 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (beginning in May)

Farmers’ Community Market at Brookside Opens April 11 at 63rd and Wornall Saturdays 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Border Star Montessori School

Overland Park Farmers Market Opens April 15, downtown Overland Park between 79th and 80th Streets at Marty Wednesdays, 7:30 – sellout Saturdays, 6:30 – sellout

Historic Downtown Liberty Farmer’s Market Opens May 2, downtown Liberty Courthouse Square Saturdays – 7 a.m.–noon

KC Organics & Naturals Market Opens May 2, Minor Park, just east of Holmes on Red Bridge Road (111th St.) Saturdays 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Olathe Farmers Market Opens April 25, Heritage Center, 1200 E. Kansas City Road Saturdays, 7 a.m. – sellout Beginning June 3, open additional Wednesdays, 3 p.m. - sellout Downtown Olathe at Poplar & Kansas

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For more local markets visit www.kcfoodcircle.org

© istockphoto.com / Tara Flake

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Troostwood Youth Garden Opens May 15 at 5142 Paseo, Kansas City, Mo. Friday nights – 5-8 p.m.

Saturdays – 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

complementary health

springing up this season

Gooseberries

Broccoli Prolific broccoli eaters tend to have fewer cancers. One of the richest vegetable sources of calcium, iron and magnesium, it contains even more vitamin C than oranges!

Add as an extra pizza topping or mix into a pasta dish.

Cucumbers Contain sterols, which have been shown to lower cholesterol in animal studies.

They also aid in digestion and have a cleansing effect on the bowels.

Add some crunchy cool slices to a spring salad or slaw.

Asparagus Just ½ cup of this green wonder provides about 25% of the RDA for folic acid and more than 80% for vitamin C. Try wrapping in foil with herbs and olive oil and baking until tender.

Brussels sprouts Off the charts when it comes to vitamin K – 250% of the RDA per serving! High in vitamin C, folate and other nutrients.

Toss cooked sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice and a splash of butter or add to a veggie kebab.

Lettuce As a general rule, the darker green the leaf, the more nutritious it is. Vitamin C and K, folate, manganese and chromium are a few key nutrients.

Substitute lettuce for bread as a low-carb option for a sandwich or wrap.

Beets Protects against heart disease, birth defects and certain cancers. Contains many essential minerals and vitamin C. Top a salad with grated beets to add color and a healthy boost.

Cabbage A powerful cancer fighter, cabbage offers a healthy dose of vitamins C and K as well as a mixture of vital nutrients.

Steam and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

(For extra flavor, butter lightly.)

Peas These little gems help to maintain bone and cardiovascular health. They’re packed with vitamins and are an excellent source of folate and dietary fiber.

Consider a healthy pea soup recipe or sprinkle over a fresh salad.

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Row 1 from left © istockphoto.com / Valentyn Volkov; Susan Trigg; Joe Biafore. Row 2 from left © istockphoto.com / Floortje; Creative eye99; Sergii Tsololo. Row 3 from left © istockphoto.com / Joe Biafore; Linda Steward; Michael Westhoff

An excellent choice for dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and manganese.

Sprinkle into a traditional fruit salad to add a fun, new flavor.

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complementary health

raising a greener generation number of organizations in the Kansas City area are helping kids to grow up green. Here are four efforts to share the benefits of farm fresh food with a new generation.

Bistro Kids This unique for-profit lunch program follows the Farm 2 School initiative – a national organization that helps connect local farmers with area schools.

In participating schools, a trained chef prepares organic, kid-friendly meals that are “healthy, seasonal, delicious and, whenever possible, locally grown.”

While three local private schools currently take part in the program, a growing number are expressing interest.

Little Sprouts Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool is an urban farm located in Kansas City, Kan. Here, children learn to appreciate organic, farm-fresh food at a very young age. The school grounds include raised garden beds, a greenhouse and a chicken coop. Owners Natalie and David Reeder help students to grow, harvest and prepare their own meals. The children have a small egg business, too – a simple way of learning what farm to market really means.

Beanstalk Children’s Garden A unique fieldtrip destination where children ages 3 and up can learn about plants, food production, insects and nutrition. Visitors explore unique and creative garden areas where they are encouraged to use their senses to see, touch, smell and taste plants as part of the learning process. A living, growing, changing garden with something new happening every day. Tours cost $2 and include tasting seasonal produce and a small plant for children to take home. Opens June 13

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Troostwood Youth Garden

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Each spring, a unique outdoor classroom opens to neighborhood youth near 52nd and Paseo. The Urban Agriculture Youth Program is an opportunity for young people ages 12 and over to spend the summer learning about and working the land. Under the care of founder Ericka Wright and a master gardener, they plant, harvest and sell produce at their weekly farmers market, all the while developing math, reading and other classroom skills.

The organization has seen great improvement in participants’ self-esteem, nutritional and other lifestyle choices.

Contact

913-710-5171 chefk@bistrokids.com

Contact

Natalie Reeder 913-972-5750

Contact

816-931-3877 Located at the Kansas City Community Gardens near 69th and Kensington in Kansas City, Mo.

Contact

Ericka Wright, 816-252-8860 See our Farmers Market list (p. 40) for details about the market.

© istockphoto.com / Ints Tomsons

An increasing

local spotlight

Missys’ Mirror | Kansas City, Missouri

hope and healing If you’ve ever known someone undergoing the rigors of cancer treatment, you know how devastating it can be to a person’s self-esteem. Often, they experience drastic physical changes that require a great amount of acceptance and adjustment. | We’ve discovered a special place in Kansas City that reaches out to those on this difficult journey. It’s called Missys’ Mirror – a not-for-profit appearance center that’s bringing a special kind of hope and

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healing to area cancer patients.

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STORY By Paige DeRuyscher

Photos by STRAUSS-PEYTON

A Unique Legacy

Making a Lasting Difference

Products and services

Missys’ Mirror is named in memory of two young KC area mothers named Missy who lost their battles with breast cancer. The center is committed to improving the appearance, selfesteem and wellness of those living with cancer by offering a comfortable setting for choosing wigs, clothing, makeup, accessories and prosthetics.

It includes a boutique, private fitting room and children’s corner as well as a salon with a computer imaging center to help patients find the look that suits their style.

Mary recalls an encounter between one volunteer and a 16-year-old girl who was trying to choose between two wigs.

Her family could not afford a wig and she was granted a gift from the charity fund. Mary advised the volunteer, “Just give her both of them. No 16-yearold girl should have to make a decision like that.” A few months later, someone who came into the shop mentioned the young girl. She had lost her battle with cancer, but at her wake there was a sign that all donations to the family would be given to Missys’ Mirror in her name. The gift had made that much of an impact on her last few months of life. “That,” Mary says, “is a great legacy.”

n Personalized

Manager Mary Moser, a certified prosthesis fitter, and her team of specially trained volunteers take the time to connect personally with each visitor. They explain the multiple options available and help people to make choices they can feel confident about. All proceeds from sales go to a charity fund to help those who are uninsured or under-insured and can’t afford the services that Missys’ Mirror offers.

While some are no longer with us, many past visitors to Missys’ Mirror are living healthy lives today. “Any little bit we can do to help them through this journey is worth it,” Mary says.

Until a cure is found, Missys’ Mirror will continue to be a haven for many in need of this special kind of care and attention. It is a gift to those who benefit from its services and an unforgettable experience for the volunteers who have the privilege of serving them.

fittings for breast and lumpectomy prostheses, partials and masectomy bras n Hats, scarves, wigs n Special products for lymphadema patients n Post-surgical camisoles n Equalizing forms n Nightgowns n Body care products n Audio tapes, books, and videos n Swimwear and sun protective clothing n Gift items

Missys’ Mirror at Saint Luke’s Hospital 4321 Washington St., Suite 4000 Kansas City, Mo. 64111 www.saintlukeshealthsystem.org Interested in volunteering?

Call Mary: 816-932-2565

Photos Š Strauss-Peyton

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Š istockphoto.com / Anthony Brown

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complementary health

Seasonal allergies Finding clarity amid the haze of spring

By Kerry Hinrichs While many of us eagerly await the telltale signs of spring’s first bloom, for many others, the beauty of the season brings the relentless symptoms of seasonal allergies. Commonly referred to as hay fever, or in medical terms as seasonal allergic rhinitis, the symptoms – runny nose, sneezing, wheezing and itchy, watery eyes – certainly match the misery of a winter cold.

But while a cold will typically run its course in a matter of days, a seasonal allergy prefers to last for – you guessed it – the entire season. Seasonal allergies generally hit hardest in the spring, with tree pollen being the primary trigger for hay fever. In general, pollen counts are highest on warm, dry, breezy days and lowest on cooler, rainy days.

Although May is officially noted as National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, most doctors agree that tree pollen can start becoming a problem

as early as February. According to Dr. Derrick Ward at Kansas City Allergy and Asthma Associates, the entire tree pollen season often lasts from late February through April.

“The tree pollen season is really like (a combination of) many separate pollen seasons,” Dr. Ward says. “And each tree’s individual pollination period is a couple of weeks in length.”

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, as many as 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. And nearly 36 million of them are plagued by hay fever.

In general, itchiness in the eyes, nose and throat help distinguish between a cold and seasonal allergies.

But colds and hay fever also have very different causes. While viruses cause colds, allergies materialize when the immune system responds abnormally to substances in the environment. enhance magazine 47

complementary health

symptoms and causes The most common pollens causing

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spring/summertime allergies:

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Tree pollens

Grasses

(April–June) n Maple n Ash n Oak n Elm n Birch n Cedar

(June–July) n Kentucky Blue Grass n Rye n Orchard n Timothy

Ragweed (mid-August – October) Ragweed pollen is such an important cause of seasonal allergies that many areas have laws banning these weeds from gardens, backyards and open fields.

Symptoms In addition to the usual symptoms of the common cold: n Itchiness in the eyes, nose, throat and the roof of the mouth n Watery, bloodshot eyes n Postnasal drip (clear, thin discharge) n Sensation of plugged ears n Fatigue n Trouble sleeping n Dark circles under the eyes

An allergy – or just a cold?

The only way to know for sure is to test with an allergist or other specialist. Often, allergies that irritate throughout the year are harder to detect because the symptoms are less severe.

Skin prick test: Your doctor makes a small break in the skin to introduce a tiny amount of an allergen. If the skin shows a reaction that is both itchy and resembles a bug bite, there is an allergy.

IgE Blood Test: Detects antibody levels to a particular allergen and is sometimes said to help diagnose seasonal allergies. In those with allergies, IgE antibody levels are often high, causing the body to react against foreign substances such as pollen, fungus spores and other stimulants. Once an allergy to a specific substance is identified, it is easier to move forward with the proper treatment.

© istockphoto.com / Torsten Karock

Seasonal allergies

complementary health

How to avoid seasonal allergy trouble Stay inside during peak pollen times, usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. n Keep car windows closed when traveling n Stay indoors when humidity is high and on days with high wind, when dust and pollen are more likely to be in the air n Wear a face mask outside to limit pollen inhalation n Shower after spending time outside to eliminate pollen that has collected on skin and hair n Clean home air filters often, as well as vents, bookshelves and other places where pollen is likely to collect n Vacuum at least twice a week, wearing a mask to protect against pollen, mold and dust that is trapped in the carpet n

Seasonal allergies

medical treatment options

© istockphoto.com / Tomml

While there is no absolute cure for seasonal allergies, the key for both allergies and asthma is to first identify what triggers the symptoms and attacks. Once these triggers are identified, the best way to prevent problems is to avoid them.

Beyond avoidance, Dr. David Hill, Otolaryngologist at Midwest ENT in Kansas City, says he encourages his patients to start with the least expensive, least invasive, most obvious treatment.

For those with asthma, steroid inhalers are often the best bet. For those with allergies alone, once skin testing is complete, there are several types of medicines available – both over-the-counter and prescription – to help ease the symptoms.

These include antihistamines, decongestants, combination medicines, corticosteroids, and others.

While antihistamines are commonly considered the most practical and safeest medical treatment option, it is important to note the difference between prescription and over-the-counter. While many over-the-counter antihistamines cause drowsiness, non-sedating antihistamines are available by prescription.

And with both allergies and asthma, nasal irrigation prior to treatment can often help.

“Irrigating with a saline solution by rinsing and flushing out mucus and irritants often means fewer symptoms, and the body will respond better to medications,” Dr. Hill says.

Source: the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

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Antihistamines reduce sneezing, sniffling and itching by lowering the amount of histamine (produced during an allergic reaction). n Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and itching in the nose by suppressing hormones in the brain, blocking the inflammatory response that triggers an attack. n Decongestants clear mucus out of the nasal passageways to relieve congestion and swelling. n Nasal spray decongestants relieve congestion and may clear clogged nasal passages faster than oral decongestants. n Eye drops for itchy, watery eyes. n Injectable epinephrine narrows blood vessels and opens airways in the lungs. n Allergy shots can stave off symptoms for a few years, if effective. A series of allergy shots desensitizes the system to an allergen. n

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complementary health

Treating Varicose Veins is covered by your insurance when you use an approved provider like the Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City.

non-allergic rhinitis and asthma Some people who appear to have seasonal allergies may actually suffer from non-allergic rhinitis. Changes in temperature and humidity can sometimes produce symptoms similar to those seen in people with hay fever. However, allergy medications will not necessarily relieve symptoms from non-allergic rhinitis.

kids and allergies

Vein Clinic of greater kansas city

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10600 Quivira Rd, Suite 230 | Overland Park, KS

Charles E. Stuckey, M.D., F.A.C.S. Craig D. Barbieri, M.D., A.A.F.P.

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50 PROUD PARTNER

Children are just as susceptible to seasonal allergies as adults. In fact, the tendency to develop allergies is hereditary. And if both parents have allergies, there is a 75-80 percent chance that their children will develop allergies as well. Children typically develop seasonal allergies after 5-6 years of age. But before that, the most common sign of allergy is asthma, which begins most frequently between the ages of 1-3 years.

Boys, firstborn children, those with eczema, those with food allergies, and those whose parents have seasonal allergies are all more likely to develop seasonal allergies. And it takes more than one exposure before an allergy can develop, thus food allergies often appear at a younger age than seasonal ones.

Children born in spring or early summer typically experience allergies earlier than those born at other times. Though parents of infants and toddlers often hear their children are too young to have allergies – and it’s true they do become more common from ages 2 to 7 – they can indeed be present earlier.

“Allergies can trigger asthma, but do not turn into asthma,” says Dr. David Hill, Otolaryngologist at Midwest ENT in Kansas City. “Asthma is a chronic condition.

Symptoms are either controlled or they’re not.”

© istockphoto.com / Finn Brandt

Seasonal allergies

Airborne allergens can also trigger asthma, in which the airways narrow, making breathing difficult and causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Asthma is different from allergies in that it is not so much an allergic reaction as it is an inflammatory reaction to a particular trigger.

complementary health Seasonal allergies

natural remedies for allergies may be lying on our dinner plates.

Research shows that phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables help to reduce the internal inflammation that causes respiratory concerns.

Raw garlic, for example, contains potent enzymes that dissolve mucus in the lungs and bronchial tubes, helping to restore normal breathing. It is also said to destroy bacteria in air passages,

preventing respiratory infections.

Juicing is a simple and fun way to incorporate essential fruits and vegetables into daily diet. And for those of you with picky younger eaters, it’s a wonderful way to disguise unwanted foods. Adding extra vitamin C to the diet – and specifically vitamin C powder to juices and smoothies – will give the immune system an extra boost.

Buteyko involves deep breathing exercises involving nasal breathing, breath-holding and relaxation, said to help those suffering from asthma.

Butterbur, an herb that comes from a European shrub, shows potential for relieving seasonal allergy symptoms and has reportedly been as effective as Allegra in reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Look for Butterbur Root capsules, processed to remove any toxic compounds.

Quercetin, a flavonoid naturally found in onions, apples, grapes, grapefruit, strawberries and black tea, has anti-inflammatory properties shown to block histamines. Look for substances that also contain vitamin C or Bromelain – like pineapple – which increase Quercetin’s effectiveness.

Nasal Irrigation, which has been practiced in India for centuries, combines warm water, a quarterteaspoon of salt, and a quarterteaspoon of baking soda to help clear out mucus and open sinus passages.

Administer the solution through a squeeze bottle or a neti pot, which resembles a small teapot.

Acupuncture is said to treat the individual, not the symptoms. Acupuncturists claim that allergy symptoms indicate a deep imbalance of Wei Qi (“way chee”) within a person’s system.

Experts suggest that the needles used in acupuncture regulate blood flow and stimulate immune function changes by rebalancing the body’s vital energy.

Stinging Nettle is said to prevent allergic reactions by slowing the production of histamine. Look for freeze-dried Stinging Nettle in capsules. In addition, strengthen resistance with a tea of elderflowers and yarrow for several weeks prior to pollen season. Bee pollen is said to do the same.

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Clockwise from top left: © istockphoto.com / Agata Malchrowicz, Ruud deman, Vitalina Rybakova, Mariya Bibikova, Mark Fairey, Jill Fromer

For those hoping to avoid common western medicine treatment options, some believe there is hope in natural remedies. Several holistic approaches to seasonal allergies are available, and they encompass a number of non-traditional herbs and homeopathic methods to achieving greater health.

In fact, some scientists believe the answer to some of our allergy concerns

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Photo Š Denise Williams

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health and wellness

complementary health

ABCs

Apples, Broccoli, carrots:

come from the farm Story By Heather Winslow Gibbons

Ask kindergartners at Scuola Vita Nuova, a charter school in Kansas what their favorite snacks are and you might be surprised by the answers.

Apples, carrots and watermelon top the list, and only a few mention cookies or potato chips.

Scuola Vita Nuova is one of five area charter schools taking part in the Kindergarten Farm Food Initiative, a program established by The Food Trust of Philadelphia to improve children’s health and reduce the risk of obesity by teaching about food, farms and nutrition.

The Kindergarten Initiative was

brought to Kansas City through a partnership between KC Healthy Kids, which provided funding, and the University of Missouri Extension, which is coordinating the program. Schools were selected according to several criteria, including their ability to make time in the school day for lessons, their intent to extend the program to other grades, and to incorporate new foods into school meals.

“We want to see some willingness on the part of the school and strong interest in the health of the students,” says Ann Cohen, registered dietitian and Associate State Nutrition Specialist for the University of Missouri Extension.

Students at Scuola Vita Nuova are a mix of seven different nationalities, and a few bring hummus or vegetables and

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From left: © istockphoto.com / Zone Creative, name h ere, Ranplett

City’s Northeast area,

PHOTOS By DeNISE WILLIAMS

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rice for lunch. Still, chips, colas and sweets dominate school parties and many lunch boxes. With the number of obese children at the school mirroring the national average of 16 percent, principal Nicole King wants her kids to be healthier.

She also wants to help them get to know the world outside their urban neighborhood. The Kindergarten Initiative is a perfect fit for a school that strives to educate the whole child.

“The experience is creating a new awareness for the kids and encouraging them to be open to trying all kinds of new things, not just new foods,” King says.

Bringing the Farm to School Three days a week, children are served fruit and vegetable snacks grown at Fahrmeier Farms.

“By introducing them to locally grown produce, we’re connecting them to local food sources and helping them build an appreciation for food,” Cohen says.

Health and nutrition lessons based on the snacks are integrated into the regular curriculum, sometimes in surprising ways.

“Most of the students recognize fruits and vegetables by sight, not name, so lettuce, radish and cucumber are new vocabulary words for them,” kindergarten teacher Kristi Mansfield says.

During snack time, she and fellow teacher Miranda Downey explain nutrition concepts, telling students what part of the plant they’re eating, how it grows and why it’s good for them. Snack Talk cards are provided to the teachers to help guide the discussion and engage the students. Even Downey and Mansfield are trying new foods for the first time – they bravely sampled sunflower seed butter right along with their students.

While the Kindergarten Initiative added to teachers’ workloads, they’ve managed to fit it into their school day. “Our staff are mothers first, teachers second. They saw from their own perspective that this was good for their students,” King says.

Students can tour hoop houses like this one at Fahrmeier Farms.

About the Kindergarten Farm Food Initiative Scuola Vita Nuova is one of five Kansas City, Mo., charter schools participating in the program in 2008-2009: n Academie Lafayette n Benjamin Banaker Academy n Della Lamb Elementary n Gordon Parks Elementary n Three schools will be added in the fall

The Kindergarten Initiative is administered by the University of Missouri Extension and is funded by the Healthcare Foundation of Greater Kansas City, the Menorah Legacy Foundation and KC Healthy Kids. KC Healthy Kids is a non-profit charitable foundation focused on uniting greater Kansas City on the issue of childhood obesity.

For more info: www.kchealthykids.org

Photo © Denise Williams

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816"994"8900

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Taking City Kids to the Country Three times a year, the kindergartners visit Fahrmeier Farms in Lexington, Mo., to see where their snacks are grown. They pick tomatoes, tour the greenhouse and see farm animals up close. The students also play Farm Fear Factor, a game that helps them try new foods in a fun way.

Students stand with their eyes closed and hold out their hands. A volunteer gives them a small piece of fresh fruit, vegetable or herb, instructs them to feel and smell it and encourages them to taste it. Last fall, students sampled pears and peppers, and this spring they may try lettuce, spinach or asparagus.

Bret Fahrmeier enjoys welcoming urban dwellers of all ages to his family’s farm and believes it ultimately helps his business.

“Most people don’t know what happens on a farm, so I feel it’s my duty to teach them about agriculture,” Fahrmeier says. “When people know where fresh produce comes from and why it’s good for them, it makes farms like ours relevant even to urban families.”

Family and Community Engaging families and community partners is critical to the success of the

Kindergarten Initiative.

“When a student likes something they’ve eaten at school, he or she often asks for it at home,” Mansfield says.

So to engage parents, teachers send recipes home with students and include produce order forms so families have easy access to the same local foods their kids are eating at school.

Family members are encouraged to accompany children on farm visits, and for many grown-ups, the experience is as new as it is for the children. Fahrmeier also visits the school during evening events to talk with families about his work and sell fresh produce.

“The Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences removed a major obstacle when they agreed to prepare the snacks,” King says. The university’s staff and students portion the snacks for each class and deliver them to the Scuola Vita Nuova, just five blocks away.

“The initiative works because everyone is focused on health, nutrition and wellness, not just academics,” King says.

During a recent Snack Talk, one kindergarten boy made this proclamation: “In my old life, I didn’t eat carrots. Now I like them!” How perfect for a school whose name translates to School of New Life.

Fahrmeier Farms 9364 Mitchell Trail Lexington, Mo. 64067 816-934-2472 www.fahrmeierfarms.com

YMCA Healthy Kids Day The nation’s largest health day for children and families is the national Healthy Kids Day in April. The YMCA of Greater Kansas City is celebrating the day all month long at their 19 local YMCA centers. In honor of Healthy Kids, Kansas Citians are invited to take full advantage of YMCA membership benefits for 14 days free to charge. Interested people can start their complimentary 14 days any time during the month of April 2009.

Through this event, the YMCA and partner Children’s Mercy Family Health Partners have given our neighbors the opportunity to take their minds off daily stresses, and instead have fun and focus on positive sustainable healthy lifestyle changes together, as a family. www.kansascityYMCA.org e-mail: ynews@ymca-kc.org 816-561-YMCA (9622)

Photo © Denise Williams

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Kindergarten teachers Krisi Mansfield and Miranda Downey engage students in sweet potato snack talk.

complementary health

bringing the abc’s home “When we eat fruits and vegetables, we get the best possible foods,” says Ann Cohen, registered dietitian and Associate State Nutrition Specialist for the University of Missouri Extension. ways to help kids eat more of those nutritious foods:

go to the source

Help kids understand where their food comes from. Visit farms and start a backyard or schoolyard garden. “Even if it’s just a pepper plant or tomato plant, it’s enough to help students see the growing cycle and understand how much effort goes into growing food,” Cohen says.

serve it up

Families who eat dinner at home consume more fruits and vegetables. Keep a bowl of fruit on the counter and let kids know they’re a great anytime snack. When making meals, ask children to help wash or chop, depending on their age and skill level.

set an example

enough for everyone

Provide a 10 a.m. snack to everyone at school. “By 10, everyone is hungry,” says King, who likes fruits and vegetables for their convenience as well as their health benefits.

The morning snack is served in the classroom as students transition from recess to lessons.

beyond apples and oranges

Find ways to add more variety of fruits and vegetables to school menus. “Surveys show students want variety beyond the typical apple or orange,” says Cohen, listing strawberries and kiwi among fruits requested by students.

teacher’s pet

Support classroom teachers in every way. King, for example, is in the cafeteria at lunchtime monitoring student behavior, wiping tables and sweeping the floor so teachers can have more time to prepare lessons and materials.

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From top: © istockphoto.com / Darren Baker, Wioletta Suska, Raychel Deppe

Be a good role model. “We do a lot of dramatic acting around here,” says Sculola Vita Nuova principal Nicole King, referring to her staff’s practice of modeling healthy choices. Be willing to try new foods, too, and talk through your thought process when choosing an apple over a cookie.

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local profile

Reproductive resource center | Overland Park, Kansas

expecting the best Most women spend a portion of their lives trying to avoid pregnancy. Most can even recall the fear instilled in them by their seventh-grade health teachers, who made it seem as though getting pregnant was as easy as chewing gum. | But many couples find that once the time is right, having a baby isn’t as easy as they once understood it to be. And seeking the best treatment facility for infertility can be a very difficult and daunting task. This is something the doctors and staff at the Reproductive Resource Center of Greater Kansas City recognize.

STORY BY Quinn Katherman PHOTO BY JENNY WHEAT Octuplets are not the norm

Myths and Misunderstandings

Dr. Celeste Brabec is a specialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility and has been with the RRC since 1999. At the RRC, Dr. Brabec, Dr. Lyles, founder of RRC and also a board certified reproductive endocrinologist, and Dr. Wilson, the board certified high-complexity laboratory director, work toward a common goal.

With a plethora of information on infertility treatments and continuous media coverage of multiple births, it can be difficult to decipher fact from fiction. The most common misconception is the belief that fertility treatments do not work.

“Our goal is to maximize pregnancy rates, while at the same time minimize multiple pregnancy rates. Blastocyst transfer is designed to accomplish that goal,” Brabec says.

Blastocyst embryo transfer for IVF involves culturing embryos for five days instead of the traditional three days. This extended culture period enables further development of the embryos, which allows doctors to determine the healthiest embryos to implant into the uterus. Selecting only one or two of the highest quality embryos increases the embryo’s chances while decreasing the chances of a multiple pregnancy.

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“We are probably the only program who exclusively does day five blastocyst embryo transfer. It’s a more difficult technique which requires more time, energy and resources of our embryology staff,” Brabec says.

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RRC was one of the first centers in the region to offer blastocyst transfer, and given their high success rates, they are now regarded as an authority on the technique.

“The couples who come to see us want to have a healthy baby. So we try very hard to help them reach that goal, but responsibly,” Brabec says.

“Most couples who seek treatment with a fertility specialist will have success and most will take home a healthy baby,” Brabec says.

According to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, the RRC has a live birth rate of 57 percent for women 35 years old and younger and a 51 percent live birth rate for women age 35 to 37. However, Brabec says couples need to consider more than just statistical data as each clinic varies in the types of patients they accept and the cases they report.

Another myth Brabec typically combats is the idea that all infertility treatments are expensive. “Maintaining high pregnancy rates results in lower costs for our patients, which they love,” Brabec says. The RRC offers a wide range of treatment options and it is their goal to help couples achieve conception as efficiently as possible.

A successful fertility treatment does not mean you have to risk a multiple pregnancy. With the successful implementation of blastocyst transfers, the RRC’s average number of embryos transferred is fewer than two, Brabec says.

“Those who have done their homework come here. And if we do our job right, which of course we do, our patients are not our patients for long–with pregnancy they go on to see their obstetrician,” Brabec says.

Expect the best from your doctor

Facts and Stats to Know

RRC’s Services

Dr. Brabec admits that she doesn’t have the easiest job, but she does feel as though it is the most rewarding.

The abundant statistical data available on fertility should not be used alone to make a decision as there are a lot of factors contributing to the report results. The Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology’s Web site helps patients locate and contact infertility clinics as well as view national and individual clinic IVF success rates.

SART offers a useful tool in the form of an interactive map which allows you to select a state and then view the reports for every clinic listed and registered as a SART member.

The Reproductive Resource Center is an infertility and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) clinic founded in 1988. And after 20 years of a successful practice, they are proud and responsible leaders in innovative treatment options for couples suffering from infertility.

But knowing the number of unwanted and unplanned pregnancies can be difficult when she has to watch her own patients struggle with their desire to conceive every day. Despite this, Brabec has a strong understanding of her role and the effect she has on her patients turned parents.

The most important data categories to look at are Pregnancy Rate, Multiple Pregnancy Rate, Greater Than Twins and Average Number of Embryos Transferred.

“I’ve learned that the little things are the big things; the little moments are what give life meaning in its deepest sense. I am truly honored to know that women have chosen me and entrusted me to help them with their most honorable pursuit – that of starting a family,” Brabec says.

The Reproductive Resource Center of Greater Kansas City

“We provide comprehensive diagnostic testing and treatment for all causes of infertility, ranging from the most simple to the most complex,” Brabec says.

Ovulation induction Intra-uterine insemination n In Vitro Fertilization n Intracytoplasmic sperm injection n Embryo cryopreservation n Donor egg and donor sperm services n Gestational carrier services n Infertility surgery n Reproductive Endocrinology n Psychological services n

Visit www.sart.org/find_frm.html for more information.

1-877-221-2323 12200 West 106th Street Suite 120 Overland Park, Kan. 66215 Hours: 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. www.rrc.com

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Photo © Jenny Wheat

“What brings me the most joy about my job is that it truly allows me to fully live and breathe the depths of human existence and emotion,” Brabec says. “Together, my patients and I have been given a gift, which is the opportunity to experience the full breadth of humanity, from its small defeats and tear-wrenching agonies to its simple joys and most joyous wonders, like the birth of their first child.”

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Š istockphoto.com / Pali Rao

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health and wellness

electro

health and wellness From Muscle Pain to Parkinson’s, electrotherapy is making its mark

By Trieste VanWyngarden

therapy

Electrotherapy is an alternative to pain medications and physical therapy. Depending on the type of pain you are experiencing, one of several methods may be used in your treatment:

Running Interference Interferential Therapy involves two separate electrical frequencies that work together to stimulate large impulse nerve fibers. In other words, they “close the gate,” interfering with pain messages before they can get through the spinal cord and into the brain.

Straight to the Spine Lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure involving the insertion of a thin needle near the nerves that are carrying pain signals from your spine to your brain. A small electrode is inserted through the needle, and its current stuns the nerve for a time. Within a month of the procedure, the pain may disappear completely – though it could return three to six months after treatment.

Pain Blockers and Healing Speeders TENS treatment, otherwise known as a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator, consists of an electrical pulse stimulator connected to electrodes, which are applied directly to the skin at the site of the pain. Stimulating the sensory nerves both blocks pain signals and stimulates the production of endorphins.

Keep it Moving For patients whose muscles are in danger of atrophy or losing range of motion, a Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Device alternately causes contraction and relaxation of the motor nerves. Besides keeping them from atrophying, a NMES device increases blood circulation and can re-educate weak muscles.

Depending on your case, a NMES device may be covered by insurance and can be a treatment you do at home.

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This is the time of year where the earth is bursting with fresh new things to mow, plant, pull up, move or dig. Does your back hurt just thinking about it?

If so, you’re not alone. Eight out of 10 Americans will suffer from back pain at some point in life. Often the pain comes through simple overexertion.

Other times it comes through past injuries, trauma or medical conditions.

No matter its source, the limitations and persistence of chronic pain are universally unwelcome.

Back pain, says Lori Oswald of KC Pain Center, is the most common patient complaint. Where physical therapy or medication leaves off, various forms of electrotherapy can give patients the new hope of a pain-free life.

Using electricity to manipulate nerve sensation was introduced over 140 years ago. The idea is simple: Use electrical impulses to block pain signals in the nerves before those signals reach the brain.

These electrical impulses can also decrease healing time, by either stimulating the production of your body’s natural pain-reducing endorphins or by increasing blood flow and reducing edema (fluid buildup) to the injured area.

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health and wellness

On-location photographer specializing in children, individual portraits, families and high school portrait photography

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913-486-4409 http://denisewilliamsphotography.com

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All Kinds of Causes In addition to chronic pain, electrotherapy has been proven effective for: n Urinary n Symptoms of Parkinson’s incontinence n Arthritis n Epilepsy n Herniated discs n Depression n Schizophrenia

Local Resources KC Pain Centers: Several locations. www.kcpain.com; 816-763-1559 Alignance Chiropractic: Specializing in interferential electrotherapy, 8833 State Ave., Kansas City KS 66112, 913-515-6614 www.alignancechiro.com Midwest Spinal Pain Institute: Specializing in lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy 9501 North Oak Trafficway, Suite 201, Kansas City, MO 64155, 816-420-8282, www.midwestspinalpain.com Buy TENS Units: www.lgmedsupply.com

© istockphoto.com / Eliza Snow

Pros & Cons There are almost as many types of electrotherapy as there are conditions to be treated by it. The good news is that electrotherapy is generally safe, effective, minimally invasive (if at all) and works in tandem with your body’s natural methods of healing. The least invasive therapies have no known side effects.

On the flipside, some electrotherapy treatments (such as TENS) are subject to the placebo effect – or the belief that you’re feeling better whether or not the treatment has worked. Electrotherapy and pacemakers don’t mix. Also, pregnant women should also avoid electrotherapy treatment. The more invasive treatments are subject to the cautions of any surgical procedure.

As with any treatment, you should work with your doctor to decide if electrotherapy is the right option for you.

health and wellness

MODERN

| By Dr. Andrew Moore |

ORTHODONTICS If you have not noticed lately, “braces” do not have some of the negative connotations they have had in past decades. In fact a lot has changed in orthodontics.

If you are the parent of a preteen or teenager, you are well aware of the vast number of kids who have some type of orthodontics. You may also have noticed many kids are starting treatment earlier than past generations. In many cases, the extraction of permanent teeth can be avoided by the use of a palate expander and earlier intervention. In fact, every once in a while, I have a preteen patient who is disappointed to hear, “Your teeth are perfect, you don’t need braces.”

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Although it may never replace traditional orthodontics, Invisalign has made a huge splash in the world of cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics. Many adults and teenagers are great candidates for Invisalign. It starts with a consultation

Colors for Every Occassion On the surface the first thing you may notice are the colors of the bands, which are changed at each visit.

School colors, seasonal colors, NFL colors, you name it, your orthodontist probably has it!

© istockphoto.com / Ryan Christensen

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Teenagers with braces is not a new thing, but have you noticed the number of adults with braces? Both Tom Cruise and Gwen Steffani have had orthodontics in recent years. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontics reports one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. That’s estimated that more than 1 million adults are currently receiving treatment from orthodontists. The bottom line is that healthy teeth can be moved at any age.

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Benefits for everyone It is estimated that between 50 to 75 percent of the population could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Besides the cosmetic benefits or braces, which are great, having properly aligned and functioning teeth make hygiene easier and the potential for tooth decay is lessened.

TMJ problems and headaches can even be eliminated if teeth are straightened properly.

Virtually Invisible

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Š istockphoto.com / Alexander Shor

With the Invisalign product, the patient wears a series of clear, barely noticeable aligners, 24 hours a day, only to be taken out for eating and oral hygiene.

Every two weeks the aligners are changed, and before you know it your teeth have moved and now they are straight.

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appointment. Impressions of your teeth are taken and a series of photographs are sent to Invisalign. Once Invisalign receives the information, the clinician and the patient can view a computerized 3-D animation of the patient’s teeth. You actually see the teeth move right before your eyes on the computer screen, from any angle.

Patient satisfaction is very high. In fact, www.realself.com, an unbiased cosmetic treatment rating website, rates it high on the list of patient satisfaction, even slightly higher than Lasik. Once the treatment is accepted, the patient wears a series of transparent, barely

noticeable aligners, 24 hours a day, only to be taken out for eating and oral hygiene. Every two weeks, the aligners are changed. Within a matter of months, your teeth are straightened.

All this information about straight teeth boils down to a person’s appearance. A child’s (or adult’s) selfesteem can be greatly affected. You owe it to yourself to see your dentist or orthodontist if your smile has ever bothered you. Whether it’s crooked teeth, too much space or even the color, you would benefit from exploring your options. Once you like your teeth, you can’t help but smile.

Smiles Change Lives 2405 Grand Ave. Suite 300 Kansas City, Mo. 816-421-4949 888-900-3554

Smiles Change Lives – bracing kids for a better future A Kansas City based non-profit organization that knows a whole lot about kids, orthodontics and self-esteem.

They are a group committed to providing essential, life-changing orthodontic treatment to children from lowkids lives by changing their smile. What a difference she and the volunteer orthodontist have made. There are now chapters throughout the United States, with hundreds of kids being treated each year. Be sure to check out their website at www.smileschangelives.org, where you can find out more, make a donation and “adopt a smile.”

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improve self-esteem prevent tooth decay make general hygiene easier

From left: © istockphoto.com / Shelly Perry, Cathy Luckhart, Mark Jensen

income families. It was started right here in Kansas City by Virginia Brown who had a vision to make a difference in

I have tremendous confidence in the nurses at St. Joseph.

So will you.

Carrie Lehr, MD, St. Joseph Medical Center

Our goal at St. Joseph Medical Center is to attract the best nurses in the profession. According to the doctors who practice here, we’re doing a pretty good job. And they’re not the only ones who think so. The American Nurses Credentialing Center has named St. Joseph a Magnet hospital, which recognizes exceptional nursing leadership.

But the people whose feelings we care about the most are our patients. And they consistently tell us our nursing care is the best they have ever experienced. That’s what makes St. Joseph a better hospital.

To learn more, visit carondelethealth.org.

1000 Carondelet Drive Kansas City, MO 64114 816-942-4400

Enhance Publications 7111 W 151st St. Overland Park, KS 66223

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P R O U D PA R T N E R

Charles E. Stuckey, M.D., F.A.C.S. Craig D. Barbieri, M.D., A.A.F.P.