2014-10 Medical and Wellness by Style Media & Design, Inc.

OCTOBER 2014

CSU EQUINE RESEARCH

HAS HUMAN POTENTIAL AVOID UNEXPECTED

HEADACHE TRIGGERS

Antibiotic Immunity –

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w w w. s t y l e m a g a z i n e c o l o r a d o . c o m w w w. m e d i c a l a n d w e l l n e s s . c o m PUBLISHER Lydia Dody | lydia@stylemedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Angeline Grenz angie@stylemedia.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Scott Prosser SENIOR DESIGNER Lisa Gould DIGITAL DIRECTOR / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Austin Lamb | austin@stylemedia.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226 Debra Davis (917) 334-6912 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400 David Knight (970) 619-9846 Elaine Ryan (970) 541-4915 OFFICE MANAGER/ABOUT TOWN EDITOR Ina Szwec | ina@stylemedia.com ACCOUNTING MANAGER Karla Vigil CIRCULATION MANAGER Trisha Milton COPY EDITOR Michelle Venus PHOTOGRAPHER Marcus Edwards Photography CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bridget Eldridge, Rod Pentico CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Malini Bartels, Kyle Eustice, Brad Shannon, Elissa J. Tivona, Michelle Venus AFFILIATIONS Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Greeley Chamber of Commerce Loveland Chamber of Commerce 2014 STYLE MAGAZINES January-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine and McKee Medical Center & North Colorado Medical Center Medical Directory February-Style March-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness April-Style May-Style June-Style July-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness August-Style September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer Style October-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness November-Holiday Style December-Best Of & Winter Activities Style Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. Free magazines are available at nearly 300 locations throughout Northern Colorado. For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 2266400, ext. 208. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: ina@StyleMedia.com ©2014 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.

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THANK YOUS

I thought I’d send you the link to my Facebook page and then you could see all of the wonderful feedback from the article (“The Threads That Connect Us,” September 2014, Lydia’s Style Magazine). It was my most popular post to date and was shared 20 times. Many thanks for the exposure, the opportunity and for recognizing that I paint from my heart. Your magazine is a tremendous example of the red thread in action; connecting people in a positive way. I’m really proud and honored to have been a part of it. Thanks for all you do for this community, for women who fight like my sister, and I send you big hugs as you say goodbye to your friend in hospice. I meant it when I say you are the definition of class and grace. Ever grateful that you are a part of my red thread now. Catherine Giglio www.facebook.com/catherinegiglioart

Thanks for the nice write up in Style for the business profile (August 2014, “Sunspirit Wellness Services: Wellness Coaching That Motivates”)! I’ve been getting a lot of good feedback on it. I already got one call from a prospective new client today. Alene Nitzky, Owner Thank you so much for the excellent in-depth article on KM2 Farms that ran in the August issue of Style (“The New Face of Agriculture”). We have been getting such positive feedback from our restaurant clients and our distributors—in addition to getting some new clients. Thank you again to Style Magazine; we look forward to a long and rewarding partnership with you. And thank you to Debra Davis for the intro! Mike Bennet & Matt Arthur KM2 Farms Thank you to Lydia Dody, publisher of Style, and Ina Szwec, About Town editor, for the nice article and pictures of our 2014 Zonta Club of Fort Collins ‘Meet the Author’ event in the August issue. Thank you for your continued support and interest in our Zonta mission. Congratulations on 30 years in business from the Zonta Club of Fort Collins. Patti Smith On behalf of the Zonta Club of Fort Collins, I’m writing to thank you for your support of all women thru your Style Magazine! We were truly honored to feature Dr. Joan King as our celebrity author—what an inspiration and legacy! Sincerely, Jan Gunderson Corresponding Secretary Zonta Club of Fort Collins ENJOYED THE ARTICLE

I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the article in the August issue of Style Magazine about Denise Martz (“Investment Centers of America: Planning for Success”). She is my financial planner, too, and I love her for her ability to be thoroughly professional, yet personable and tender. Susan Gutowsky, Fort Collins Catherine Giglio at work in her studio.

ENJOYED THE ARTICLE

Thanks so very much for your article on coping

with the strain and stress of caregiving (September 2014, “Coping with Caregiver Stress: How to Prevent Burnout”). It’s so important to raise awareness on this important issue and the special needs and interests of family caregivers. The Larimer County Caregiver Support Program can be a starting point for family caregivers who need support, guidance, and resources. A caregiver can call me directly at (970) 4987758 as a place to get started! Lynette McGowan Larimer County Caregiver Support Program Just saw my latest Lydia’s Style magazine and the article by Elissa Tivona on Coping with Caregiver Stress. I just wanted you to know that Larimer County’s Office on Aging provides excellent Caregiver programs, in conjunction with other agencies, throughout the year in Fort Collins and Loveland. Our program is called: Powerful Tools for Caregivers and is offered free. Visit our website link for more information: larimer.org/ seniors/training.htm. Deni La Rue Larimer County Community Information Manager We received the September issue of Style and thought the breast cancer survivors and fashions looked great! We loved seeing Stephanie and Sarah! You always do such a fabulous job! Anna Gutierrez, Cloz to Home, Loveland I wanted to let you know that so many people have seen my Champions of Hope Care Provider Honoree award write up in the September issue of Style. All my favorite clients have seen it and congratulated me! The positive outpouring I’ve received has validated the importance of giving back to your community. It has also brought my family together as they all want to be supportive of my recognition at the Hope Lives gala in October. Thank you so very much! Abby Charpentier, Licensed Esthetician Vogue Laser Clinic

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM READERS. SEND YOUR COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS TO:

angie@stylemedia.com Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 Fax: 970.226.6427 www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Wake-Up Call

“Laugh and the world laughs with you, snore and you sleep alone.” - Anthony Burgess By Ralph R. Reynolds DMD, MD & Melvin Benson DDS

re you waking up fatigued and exhausted? Lack of enthusiasm for life and feeling depressed? Have your family or friends told you that you snore, or that it sounds as if you have stopped breathing temporarily while sleeping? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may have a disorder called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). A bad night’s sleep can ruin your day, when every night is bad it can affect your health and wellbeing. Approximately 40% of patients over the age of 40 snore. Of those who snore at least 17% of men and 15% of women have of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Why Does it Happen? The Airway The airway consists of the nose and nasopharynx (passageway from the nose to the back of the throat), the mouth and oropharynx (back of the throat), the laryngo-pharynx behind the tongue leading to the opening of the voice box (larynx), the voice box and down into the trachea to the lungs. Because the larynx (voice box) and trachea are stiffened by cartilage they usually hold their shape. The laryngo-pharynx, oropharynx and nasopharynx however, have soft tissue “walls” which are movable. The nose and nasal passages although stiff, are very tight and can add airway resistance.

What is OSA? People with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue and palate are sucked against the back of the throat and the sides of the throat suck inward. This blocks the airway and air flow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp. Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. The person with OSA cannot get adequate Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. As a result, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration. Studies show that OSA is associated with higher risks for high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, impotence, behavior and cognitive problems, and even early death. People with OSA will be 10 times more likely to die in a car accident than those without sleep apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is analogous to the old paper straws (if you remember them). Initially they were stiff and you could suck through them with no problem. As they became wet they would soften and cave in and no longer could you suck fluid through them. The airway is similar. As you relax at night your tongue base falls back and the airway becomes obstructed. Many factors contribute to this. In fact, your airway is like a set of resistors set in series. The nose is one source of resistance, the soft palate another, the tongue another. Resistance in one area causes a need for greater suction from your lungs which in turn has more potential to cave in the airway and cause obstruction. All the areas should be addressed when diagnosing and treating OSA. Today, we have advanced diagnostic capabilities to evaluate the airway in 3-Dimensions. A 3-D Conebeam Scanner and special software can show the airway in 3-Dimensions which can be rotated to view from any angle and in cross sections at any level.

Read the rest of the article at stylemedia.com/ReynoldsOral

S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

Ralph Reynolds, DMD, MD

Melvin Benson Jr., DDS

3520 E 15th St #102 Loveland, CO 80538 (970) 663-6878 www.reynoldsoralfacial.com

CONTENTS

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

October 2014

NOT TONIGHT, I HAVE A HEADACHE

36 NEW SENIOR CENTER REVEALED

ANTIBIOTIC IMMUNITY – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

44 PROJECT SMILE – HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED

ANTIBIOTICS BEFORE A VISIT TO THE DENTIST?

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO EYE CARE

8 12 14 16 20 24 28 32 36 41 42 44 46 58 62 66

From Our Readers

Publisher’s Letter

In The News

Not Tonight, I Have a Headache

Antibiotic Immunity – What You Should Know Battle Depression the Natural Way Swimming Against The Current: Dealing with Male Infertility

How Men Can Attain a Healthy Weight

New Senior Center Revealed

Special Dental Section

The Top Consumer Dental Products Project Smile – Helping Children in Need Antibiotics Before a Visit to the Dentist?

A Holistic Approach to Eye Care Equine Ligament Research Helps Humans Kitty Care: Dental Health 101

ON THE COVER: Dr. Joseph Prows, with Associates in Family Medicine, explains the risks present when taking antibiotics to treat infection and what families need to know. Cover photo by Todd Reinert Photography.

The articles in this issue of Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness are presented for your general knowledge and are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

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Experience the Difference!

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Staying Healthy I must admit, after watching my grandmother struggle with dental issues, extractions, poorly made dentures and associated pain, early on I decided that I would do everything I could to keep my teeth all my life. That awareness of the importance of dental care is what spurred our office to begin a Dental Section in this issue of Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness. We asked area dentists if they wanted to talk about their philosophy, their specialty and their uniqueness in a dental profile section in this issue. Be sure to

see it starting on page 41. In addition, we have posted the ADA Dental Directory on our website, www.medicalandwellness.com, for your easy reference to find the right professional for your needs. Speaking about dental topics, it was eye opening to me to be told that because I had a hip replacement, I needed to take antibiotics ahead of every dental procedure, including cleanings. Read what we learned when we explored that topic in “Antibiotics Before a Visit to the Dentist.” Today there is a trend to only administer antibiotic prophylaxis to patients at highest risk and each situation is handled individually. Be sure you speak to your doctor for his advice in your particular case. Good dental care also extends to our pets, including cats. Recently, I noticed my cat, Dyna, was not eating well and was losing weight. I was quite concerned so I took her to the CSU Veterinary Hospital. Within a few minutes of the exam, they discovered that she had an infected tooth and needed a dental. Cats need their teeth brushed? That’s a scary concept! Read “Kitty Care: Dental Health 101,” to learn about the importance of dental care and steps you can take to help kitty’s mouth stay healthy. Our October issue usually features a few articles specifically of interest to men. While staying healthy is most every man’s goal these days, there is even more emphasis on prevention as employers and insurance companies are offering incentives for exercising more and achieving optimal weight. One measure of health is your BMI. Be sure to read, “How Men Can Attain a Healthy Weight,” for a physician’s reasonable advice on weight loss along

with weight loss tips and an explanation of BMI. Another topic of interest to couples that want to start a family is infertility; 10 percent of couples struggle with this issue and male infertility accounts for one third of these fertility problems. Read, “Swimming Against the Current: Dealing with Male Infertility,” for lots of helpful tips for those couples facing this issue. As many of you know, I have a passion for helping women in Northern Colorado diagnosed with breast cancer through the not-for-profit Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center. Founded in 2001 the organization has provided over 17,500 free services for women and their families. Once a year Hope Lives has a Celebration of Life benefit gala to raise funds to provide the numerous services it does. This year it is October 25, at 5:30 p.m. at the Embassy Suites in Loveland. Tickets are still available for this magical night. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, live and silent auction, entertainment and an inspiring fashion show of breast cancer survivors. Invite friends and join us that evening. It is inspiring, touching and a lot of fun! Tickets are $150 and available online at www.hopelives.org or call the office at (970) 225-6200. This issue is packed with lots of great information to help you stay informed about health and wellness topics. I hope you enjoy reading the many interesting articles that relate to staying healthy. Wishing you an active and healthy fall,

lydia@stylemedia.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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Saturday - October 25, 2014 - 5:30 pm· Embassy Suites, Loveland Individual Tickets $ 150 • Corporate Table $2000

Purchase Online At HopeLives.org or call at 970-225-6200

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Advanced Energy • Advanced Medical Imaging • Affordable Roofing • Allura Skin, Laser & Wellness Clinic/Gallegos Sanitation • Atrium Health Spa • Tom & Melisa Bjorklund D&D Painting • Dr. Beverly Donnelley • Family & Cosmetic Dentistry • First National Bank • Fort Collins Mortgage • Harmony Hand & Physical Therapy • Heath Construction Herbert M. Stains Contractor Inc. • H&M Enterprises LLC • Import Auto Sales/Scott's Fort Collins Auto Repair • Kaiser Permanente • Markley Motors Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies • Richardson Foundation • Security Insurance Group • Smart Document Management • Tunberline Church University of Colorado Health • Waterpik

P<J ovt!IW S'~ Fanner's Bank • Flood and Peterson

What’s trending in the world of Medical & Wellness Enterovirus D68 Update

Banner Health implements visitor restrictions. Banner Health has announced the implementation of visitor restrictions at its Greeley and Loveland hospitals because of the current Enterovirus D68 outbreak. Restrictions will likely remain in place through the flu season, roughly the end of March. The restrictions at North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley and McKee Medical Center in Loveland Banner Health asks community members to abide by include: • Do not visit the hospital if you have fever, cough, vomiting or diarrhea • No visitors under the age of 13 • Siblings, who do not have cold and flu symptoms, may visit a new baby on the Obstetrics unit, but may be screened for illness by staff before being allowed to visit • Children 12 and under must be supervised by an adult at all times in pubic waiting areas and cafeterias • Please wash or sanitize your hands frequently while at the hospital According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, symptoms of Enterovirus D68 may include a include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches. As of Sept, 17, a total of 140 people had been infected across 16 states.

New diet drug approved The FDA approved a third diet medication, Contrave, in September. Contrave combines two drugs—bupropion, and antidepressant used to help people stop smoking, and naltrexone, an anti-addiction drug. Contrave is intended for overweight or obese persons or those who have weightrelated health problems, including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. In the study of people without diabetes, 42 percent of the patients who took Contrave lost at least 5 percent of their weight over a year’s time. Ask your general practitioner about side effects and benefits if you think Contrave might be an option for you.

Women need more sleep than men. A Duke University study found that women need more sleep than men and it is likely they are not getting enough. Poor sleep quality was determined to have a more profound effect on women than men, according to the study, leading to an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes, more stress, depression and anxiety.

Exercise enhances tumor–shrinking effects of chemotherapy. A University of Pennsylvania study of mice with melanoma has found that the chemotherapy shrank more tumors when it was combined with exercise. The finding, according to Professor Joseph Libonati, senior author of the study, could mean that doctors could use a smaller dose of the drug and get fewer side effects.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

October is awareness month in hiring people with disabilities. There are many compelling reasons to consider hiring people with disabilities in our community. Consider Tom: Tom has worked at Columbine Health Systems as a Medical Records Clerk for three years. His position requires him to sort through a mass of medical paperwork and file them in a maze of very specific places. Accuracy is essential. Because of the way his mind works, Tom is fantastic at his jobâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;he is extraordinarily detail oriented and has made the medical records department more efficient. When Tom began his position, he was an unpaid intern. The medical records staff quickly realized they could not afford to let him leave. So they hired him. Could your business benefit from hiring a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities? There are additional resources offered when hiring people with disabilities. Employers can ask for a person to do a working interview. Employers have access to employment consultants, or job coaches, who can assist with creating accommodations for the employee to be successful. If support is needed when the job tasks change or new tasks need to be added, the job coach is just a phone call way. And consider these compelling statistics. â&#x20AC;˘ 87 percent of consumers prefer to give their business to companies that hire individuals with disabilities. â&#x20AC;˘ 85 percent of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not employed. Not for lack of skill, but for lack of opportunity. To find out more and see how you can support these individuals in our community, call the local Division of Vocational Rehabilitation office in Fort Collins and Loveland at (970) 223-9823.

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

MEDICAL

Headaches

NO T TO NIGHT,

I HAVE A HE A D A C H E

t’s a common excuse that can be quite real for many people. Everyone has headaches from time to time, but for many they are an enormous burden that is simply endured. A lifestyle change could be in order to alleviate that which is giving you a “pain in the neck.” But, what’s the difference between a headache and a migraine? For starters, headaches are classified into two categories: primary and secondary. Tension headaches are the most common type of primary and are often experienced as a mild, dull pressure without

any other symptoms. A migraine is a vascular headache and is also an example of the primary kind. Migraines are often disabling and recurring. They frequently occur only on one side of the head and there are often other signs associated with migraines such as nausea. Secondary headaches are relatively rare, but are more serious. They are often caused by other grave health problems or underlying conditions such as tumors or brain aneurysms. These types bring on a “stabbing” pain behind one eye and are extremely painful. Dr. Sri Bandi is a neurologist with the Banner

BY MALINI BARTELS

Medical Group, practicing in Loveland since 2010. Patients frequently come to him with headache issues. “A lot of times it’s not really serious,” states Dr. Bandi. “The headache is usually related to stress and poor eating and sleep habits. Caffeine withdrawal is another trigger.” When the headache is causing other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, numbness, tingling or vision defects, it’s definitely time to seek the professional advice of a physician. “I tend to see more of the younger population,” says Dr. Bandi. “As you age, the frequency of headaches goes down. Also women

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Sri Bandi, Neurologist, Banner Medical Group

going through menopause tend to have fewer headaches due to hormonal changes.” The most common triggers for the prevalent tension headache are lack of sleep and an irregular schedule. Dr. Bandi insists that there is no such thing as “catching up on your sleep.” It’s important to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day if possible. Infrequent meals can also trigger headaches. Try to schedule mealtimes at the same time everyday to avoid junk food cravings and binging. Having a particularly high carbohydrate diet means your blood sugar will tend to spike. Balanced meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner are important to maintain steady blood sugar levels, thus making it easier to maintain a consistent sleep/wake schedule. Exercise is equally as important. Dr. Bandi recommends a 30-minute workout three times a week. Proper hydration and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake is crucial as well. “Here in Colorado we tend to do a lot of natural solutions because people don’t want to take prescriptions if they don’t have to,” says Dr. Bandi. “Riboflavin, magnesium and CoQ10 are just a few of the supplements we recommend for headache relief. If you choose to take over the counter medication such as naproxen or ibuprofen, it should be taken with some caffeine and at the earliest signs of a headache.” There is also a plant in the daisy family called Butterbur that has shown some good data to support its use against migraines, but it is not commonly used. Used improperly, this plant can be toxic and has several side effects including possible liver damage. Always consult a physician before taking any medication, including herbal supplements.

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

Here are some surprising headache triggers and solutions. Have you ever thought that the following might be causing your head to literally hurt?

1. Work: Think about how you feel when you are at your job. Is your boss or coworkers stressing you out? You spend a lot of time on the job; it shouldn’t be a stressful place to be. Maybe it’s time to change jobs or have a discussion about your work environment? 2. Weather: You can blame it on the rain… Temperature changes and gray skies can affect your mood and ability to cope with stress. Avoid dehydration and strong midday sun. When it’s gloomy outside, indoor growing lamps can boost your mood to avoid tension headaches. Don’t forget your sunglasses, hat and water bottle when outdoors. 3. Scents: What’s that smell? Even the faintest of odors can stimulate the nervous system and strong smells, even nice ones, may trigger migraines in many people. Pay attention to air fresheners, perfume and certain types of flowers. People have different reactions to scents, what smells pleasant to one individual can be an offensive for another. 4. Hair Accessories: Listen to your daughter when she says her ponytail is too tight. A tight hair accessory may strain the connective tissue in the scalp, thus leading to a “hairdo headache.” Let your hair down or have loose ponytails for some relief. 5. Exercise: For people who are susceptible to migraines, strenuous exercise can sometimes lead to headaches. Even vigorous sex can trigger it! Exercising outdoors in the sun can also lead to a headache from too much sun exposure and possibly even dehydration. 6. Poor Posture: Slouching at your desk can build up pressure in the head and neck muscles. Try using a chair with proper back support and maybe even get an ergonomic consultation. If you spend a lot of time at the computer, it might be a good idea to have your workspace

evaluated for ideal positioning. Take frequent breaks to stretch and move around. Hunching is hard on your body and mind. 7. Wine, Cheese & Cold Cuts: Sad, but true. Certain aged cheeses contain a naturally occurring compound called tyramine, which can trigger a migraine. The longer the age, the more tyramine the cheese contains. Tyramine is also found in red wine; likewise, alcohol in general is sometimes a headache trigger. If this hinders your ability to enjoy a party, ask your doctor about medicines that can reduce the absorption of tyramine. In addition, cold cuts often contain food additives such as nitrites. Nitrites are known to trigger headaches in some people and are generally bad for your body. 8. Too Much Screen Time: If it’s straining your eyes, then it’s hard on your head. Whether it’s a television or your mobile phone, our bodies are not designed to stare at a screen. Reading in poor lighting is also stressful for your eyes, possibly triggering a headache. The wrong prescription lenses can also be a strain on your eyes, leading to possible headaches. 9. Grinding and Clenching Teeth: You may not even know that you do this, especially if you do it while you’re sleeping. Teeth clenching can cause headaches simply because of the stress it places on your jaw. If this is a problem for you, ask your dentist to fit you for a night guard. It can save your teeth and your head.

what you eat, your physical activity, any weather changes and stressful life events can help pinpoint your triggers. Identifying patterns can be the key to cutting off headaches before they even start. 2. Manage Stress: Easier said than done. We all have busy lives, but the more we can manage stressful events, the better we will be. Meditation, talking to a therapist and massage are good options for some—find what works best for you. Simplifying your environment can make your life easier and save it from aches and pains. 3. Eat Regular Meals: Eating balanced meals throughout the day will help keep your blood sugar on an even keel. It means no more “hunger headaches” as well as reducing your cravings to binge on unhealthy snacks. Drink plenty of fluids and don’t forget protein when you eat. Dehydration is another common headache trigger. 4. Physical & Mental Therapy: In people with tension headaches, physical therapy may help the neck muscles and establish new habits that lead to better posture. Talking to a therapist can help you identify the major stresses in your life that are causing strain. It might be that you need to eliminate something from your life to have that weight lifted off your shoulders. 5. Medication: There are several over-thecounter options including acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. If you need a higher dose of medication, talk to your doctor.

10. Smoking: This is not a surprise at all, since nicotine narrows the blood vessels in the brain. Don’t forget the smell and chemical triggers of secondhand smoke and the irritation it causes those around you. If ever there was a reason to quit smoking, now you have it.

“Meds can only do so much,” reminds Dr. Bandi. “Medicine is just a rescue. Changing your lifestyle will almost always produce better results.”

Interesting Solutions

Malini Bartels is a freelance writer, chef, mother, radio host and actress living the good life in Fort Collins.

1. Headache Diary: Keeping a journal of

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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MEDICAL

Antibiotics

ANTIBIOTIC I MMU NI T Y

W H AT YOU SHOU LD K N O W

espite headlines on the Ebola virus and Enterovirus 68, a greater long-term threat to more people may be antibiotic resistance.

You’ve likely heard of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, pronounced mer-suh) or drug-resistant tuberculosis. Hospital-acquired infections (viral, bacterial and fungal) affect one in 20 patients, and cost $10 billion a year to treat in the U.S. Experts estimate that more than half of the antibiotics consumed in the U.S. are used to raise beef, pork, chicken and other meats we eat. Chicken producer Perdue made national news late this summer when it announced it stopped using most of the antibiotics it once relied on; but the practice has been banned by the European Union for years. In March 2013, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning about emerging antibiotic resistance, calling it a “very serious problem.” Authorities in the United Kingdom expressed similar concerns and labeled antibiotic resistance a “national security risk as serious as bioterrorism.” Both were referring to drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Gram

staining is an important technique to identify bacteria using dye, and organisms are either Gram negative or Gram positive. Whether a cell absorbs a particular dye (positive) or not (negative) indicates the nature of the physical and chemical properties of their cell wall. Dr. Herbert Schweizer of Colorado State University’s Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology is recognized worldwide for his expertise on antibiotic resistance of Gram-negative bacteria. Schweizer’s lab studies antibiotic resistance and tests potential new antibiotics for the pharmaceutical industry and provides unique bacterial strains and other tools for drug discovery efforts. “I’ve been involved in this work since the mid-1990s,” notes Schweizer. “The nature of the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria makes it difficult to get antibiotics past that barrier and what gets into the cell is in many cases readily expelled.” With MRSA, a Gram-positive bacterium, there are more drug options and, combined with hospital infection control, it has become more manageable. Over the last decade, infections caused by carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE) have rapidly emerged and these bacteria have

BY BRAD SHANNON

shown increasing resistance to last-resort antibiotics. CRE prove fatal in up to half of patients who are infected. They transfer resistance to other bacteria within their family. They have been described as a nightmare.

What’s the risk?

If you or someone you know is very young, elderly or has a compromised immune system— and especially if you have to stay in a hospital, nursing home or long-term acute care facility—you may be vulnerable to some type of drug-resistant infection. The culprit is typically something common in the environment and on our skin. It only becomes a problem when the skin is broken, or there is an immune system issue and an opportunistic organism is given a chance to multiply unchecked.

How did we get here?

When it comes to fighting infection, the reflex of an uncomfortable patient is often to ask for an antibiotic prescription—and the reflex of many physicians has long been to provide it. Dr. Joseph Prows of Associates in Family Medicine notes, “It’s important to understand that antibiotics are fundamentally bad for you.

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Joseph Prows, M.D., Associates in Family Medicine

Dr. Herbert Schweizer, Colorado State University Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology

Sometimes they’re better than the alternative (an untreated infection), but they always come with risks and unpleasantness.” That can include diarrhea and stomach cramps, resistant infections and allergic reactions ranging from a rash to anaphylactic shock. “Anything can do anything to anyone at any time.” Among the more severe scenarios Dr. Prows encounters is superinfection in about 2 percent of cases. When an antibiotic wipes out gut bacteria, good and bad (it is like “dropping a nuke on your gastrointestinal flora,” says Prows), an opportunistic organism like Clostridium difficile can take hold. This life-threatening infection can be hard to treat, take months to resolve and sometimes requires hospitalization. Most antibiotics can lead to this, but the antibiotics Augmentin (amoxicillin with clavulanate) and clindamycin, in particular, are higher risk. One rarely used but often-successful treatment in these cases is fecal bacteriotherapy, or fecal transplant therapy. Putting fecal matter from a healthy person into one with a superinfection has a cure rate of more than 90 percent in a single treatment. Prows estimates that he’s personally treated thousands of patients with bacterial infections, and explained to many more why an antibiotic is not the right course of treatment. “Patients want to be taken seriously. They take time out of their day, they don’t feel good, they pay for an

office visit and they expect a response. For some, that means getting an antibiotic. It’s up to us to educate them on why they ought to be using decongestants and saline irrigation instead.” He notes that antibiotics are commonly overused for sinusitis, bronchitis and otitis (ear infection).

What can you do?

Try to prevent infection. Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds—or about as long as it takes to sing Happy Birthday or the alphabet song. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Clean surfaces like doorknobs with a diluted bleach solution. Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to support a healthy immune system. In a healthcare setting, hospital infection control measures are the first line of defense. They help prevent the spread between patients and between healthcare workers and patients. Beyond that, the long and costly process of developing new antibiotic drugs needs to accelerate. If you are infected, understand what sorts of ailments you or your loved ones may suffer, and whether it makes sense to treat them with antibiotics. Trust your physician on prudent use of antibiotics—use one known to be effective for your particular infection. Understand that sometimes an antibiotic is not the proper treatment. The common cold, for example, is viral, not bacterial. Sinus, ear and respiratory infections are usually treated blind (without direct laboratory

culture data) after making an educated guess. Different options work better based on different infection locations, as well, since drug penetration varies when it comes to the bladder, bone, skin, lung, etc. The best first-line antibiotic for sinus and ear infections in adults is Augmentin. For kids it tends to be amoxicillin alone, unless there’s a penicillin/amoxicillin allergy. Avoid azithromycin for sinus and ear infections due to widespread resistance among Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common cause of bacterial sinus and ear infections.

What does the future look like?

Europe is investing 2 billion euros into fighting drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Experts advise the U.S. that it needs a similar program, though none is currently in place. Schweizer says, “We need incentives to enable pharmaceutical companies to recuperate the costs involved in the development/discovery process. While there are new antibiotics in advanced stages of development, researchers can realize a much larger return on investment with drugs like statins, which are prescribed to large numbers of patients over long periods of time.” Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

Minnesota Bans Triclosan In May of this year, Minnesota banned triclosan, an antibacterial ingredient in soaps and other personal care product. The law, which takes effect in 2017, is based on a variety of concerns, including a lack of benefit, the possibility it contributes to antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, and possible impacts on human and environmental health. Dr. Prows notes that, with soap, “Its function is to clean your hands by removing what’s on them. That’s a physical action where water is aided by soap. It does not typically kill bacteria or viruses, it just helps wash them down the drain.” Adding triclosan to the mix doesn’t improve the way soap works, and leads to the spread of triclosan far and wide—including absorption into your body, where it can impact liver, blood and reproductive systems; and leaching into the environment, where it can interfere with hormone functions in animals.

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

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MEDICAL

Depression

BATTLE DEPRESSION

THE NATURAL WAY BY ANGELINE GRENZ

epression is indiscriminate; it strikes at any time and is not dependent on circumstance. Someone prone to depression can easily be sucked into a cycle of negative feelings, fatigue and poor sleep that can deepen the feelings of sadness, anxiety and worthlessness. But recognizing the symptoms and making lifestyle changes can help you fight the onset of depression—and perhaps stave it off completely. Somewhere between 10 to 20 percent of people experience some sort of depression during their lives, according to Dr. Michael Mullin, Medical Director at North Range Behavioral Health in Greeley and co-owner of the Wholeness Center in Fort Collins. Depression is more than just the doldrums, or “feeling blue.” Clinical depression is a prolonged state with symptoms that typically last at least two weeks and interrupt daily function. To be considered clinical depression, a person needs to meet several criteria: depressed or irritable mood, a noticeable change in appetite and/or weight, lack of concentration, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness, no longer finding pleasure in activities previously enjoyed, sleeping too much or too little, a breakdown in relationships.

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Biological indicators exist as well, says Dr. Mullin, including hormonal or neurological shutdown that further aggravates symptoms. Not all cases of depression need to be handled with medication. Even untreated, says Dr. Mullin, the majority of first depressive episodes can resolve on their own within six months. However, research also shows that those who experience multiple bouts of depression may need ongoing treatment—possibly for life. Studies say that 50 percent of those who have one serious bout of depression will have a recurrent episode and 85 percent of those who have a second bout need continuing treatment, often in the form of medication. Depression can be triggered by a number of factors. Seasonal changes, a toxic work environment, not enough sleep, even an ongoing illness can trigger a depressive state. Dr. Mullin counsels people struggling with depression to seek professional help when they find these feelings disrupting their lives—“if it is affecting multiple areas of your lives, visit a professional.” Sadly, though, “less than half actually go and seek help.” How bad can depression be? As much as 50 percent of those suffering depression have transient thoughts of suicide, but for the vast majority these thoughts are existential, says Dr. Mullin. “They have thoughts like, ‘I would rather not be here’ but that doesn’t mean they have crossed over to actually planning to hurt themselves.” However, Dr. Mullin points out that doctors have been exceedingly poor at predicting suicide. An ongoing struggle with depression can take a toll on your body. “The longer you struggle the more it impacts your overall health and contributes to higher blood pressure, cholesterol and increased risk of diabetes,” says Dr. Mullin. It can also take a toll on the rest of the family, especially children. “If a parent is shutting down on a personal basis, this will affect the children, and children often mirror their parents’ behaviors.” So what steps can you take to slow the onset of a depressive state? There are several recommendations that can help change your mood and bring back a better state of mind. •

Get some sleep – “Good sleep hygiene is one of the main things people can do to alleviate depression,” says Dr. Mullin. When you are depressed, sleep patterns can be altered and too little sleep can worsen your depression. Good sleep hygiene involves creating a nighttime routine that helps the body and brain relax. Try turning off all electronic devices 90 minutes before bed. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Get rid of any extra light in your bedroom. “Proper sleep will make a huge difference in depression symptoms,” he advises.

•

Exercise – Dr. Mullin recommends 30 minutes of exercise at least three days a week. “There is research that says exercising is the equivalent to taking an antidepressant.” This is because exercise releases those feel-good endorphins.

•

Sunlight – Make sure you are getting enough exposure to sunlight. Dr. Mullin says the best source of sunlight is before 9 a.m. Try to sit in the morning sun, or take your walk or jog before you start your day—and leave off the sunglasses. Thirty minutes of sunlight exposure every day can stimulate your brain, increase vitamin D levels and help regulate your sleep. A light box, designed to mimic sunlight, is another option if your schedule prevents you from being outside.

•

Eat Healthy – The cycle of depression and overeating can make you feel even worse. Strive for a healthy diet and include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can naturally help lessen depression.

•

Boost your social connectivity, the face-to-face kind – Dr. Mullin often recommends that his patients join a meet-up group with similar interests. Getting out and making face-to-face connections can just plain make you feel better. But beware, the same cannot be said for social media. Research shows that social media actually heightens anxiety and the longer you are online symptoms of aggression and agitation can increase.

•

Supplements – Natural supplements do exist to help boost mood. In addition to omega-3, vitamin D can help alleviate seasonal depression. Vitamin B complexes help boost cognitive function; 5HTP can increase serotonin; L-theanine alleviates anxiety; and magnesium can alleviate irritable moods. Avoid too much alcohol – Though many people feel a drink or two can take the edge off, too much alcohol can possibly increase depression symptoms. Studies have found that nearly one-third of people with major depression also have an alcohol problem. And women are more likely to drink heavily when they are depressed than men are. Regardless of which came first, the depression or the overuse of alcohol, the combination of the two can lead to more frequent bouts of depression and more thoughts of suicide.

Dr. Michael Mullin, Medical Director of North Range Behavioral Health and Co-owner of the Wholeness Center

•

Develop good strategies to manage stress – Some of these strategies can be as simple as keeping to a good routine, staying involved and focusing on your daily responsibilities. Set realistic daily goals that can help you feel successful and reject negative thinking. Avoid negative relationships, but don’t avoid new experiences and try to make time for the things you enjoy—even when you don’t necessarily feel like it.

Dr. Mullin adds that activities like yoga, healing touch and acupuncture can be very beneficial, especially for those who internalize feelings to the point that they actually have physical side effects, like stomachaches and other pains. The relaxing nature of these activities can alleviate both emotional and physical effects of depression. Above all, if depression is recurring and keeping you from your normal activities and enjoyments, seek professional help to find a treatment program that works best for you.

Angeline Grenz is managing editor of Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness.

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MEDICAL

Fertility

SWIMMING AGAINST THE CURRENT:

DEALING WITH MALE INFERTILITY

early 10 percent of couples struggle with infertility. Male infertility accounts for one third of those infertility problems. Another third is due to issues with the female partner and the last third is related to issues with both partners or for reasons that cannot be identified. After 12 months of unprotected sex, if no pregnancy occurs, it is time for testing. Given the above statistics, it’s wise for both partners to be examined to see if the cause can be determined. So what does testing look like, and once the results are in, then what? Your doc is likely to want to tackle the problem head on, but a diagnosis may require a wait of several months. Don’t be discouraged if an answer doesn’t come quickly. For the male partner, the first step is to provide a thorough medical history to the doctor, followed by a semen sample so that the sperm

and seminal fluid can be examined. This process is the semen analysis. The sample will be examined for the amount of seminal fluid, the sperm count (the number of those little guys swimming around), how quickly the sperm move and their size, shape and appearance. “The semen analysis can be a little tricky,” says Dr. Susan Trout of Denver-based Colorado Reproductive Endocrinology. “A single normal ejaculation, which is only a few teaspoons, can contain between 40 to 60 million sperm. We’re looking at how many are moving, and a fertile ejaculate contains 20 million moving sperm. We consider an ejaculate to be normal when 50 percent of the sperm are moving.” You want to have a lot of members on your team. And you want them all working as hard as they can. Technicians also take a look at how the sperm are moving. Are they shaking in place? Swimming in circles and not going anywhere? Meandering and taking the long way? The best path a sperm can take is the straight and true shot to

BY MICHELLE VENUS

its destination. Then there’s the physicality of the sperm cell. It’s not uncommon for sperm to be misshapen. At the tip of each sperm cell is a small bag of enzymes, called the acrosome, which eats through the shell of the egg. “Sometimes that is missing completely, or it’s enormous or just doesn’t look right,” explains Dr. Trout. “The tails may be curled or bent and that may be why some of them are swimming in circles. And you can have double heads or double tails or little heads—a lot can go wrong.” Wouldn’t the double tail make them go faster? “Only if they’re swimming in the same direction,” says Dr. Trout. So what if you’re trying to start a family and the sperm aren’t, well, squirming? There are ways to support sperm health and increase your probabilities.

Some like it hot, but not sperm.

There’s a reason the testicles dangle outside

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the body. And it’s not for decoration. Healthy sperm need to be a few degrees cooler than body temperature. Sperm production can cease if the temperature of the testicles is raised to 98 degrees and that can impact sperm production for months. “Avoid hot showers, baths, hot tubs,” advises Dr. Trout. “Even a laptop can heat things up considerably and cause problems.” Bicycling can wreak havoc too, especially if the man leans far forward while riding and he’s wearing tight bike shorts. Everything gets pushed up next to the body and can get overheated. Boxers or briefs? Boxers.

Don’t smoke. Anything.

Smoking is problematic. Semen analysis findings indicate that the tar, heavy metals and toxins from cigarettes are in smoker’s seminal fluid. (The same is true of eggs, by the way.) “Marijuana is a mild estrogen and will feed back to the pituitary gland, which controls sperm production, and lower the pituitary’s desire to make sperm cells,” explains Dr. Trout.

Watch how much you drink.

Alcohol consumption will lower sperm count, too. How much is too much? “Three alcoholic beverages a day could cause problems,” says Dr. Trout.

Take your vitamins! And watch what you eat.

Take a look at your vitamin cabinet. If the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E are not in there, get some. “These vitamins are very good for sperm,” Dr. Trout states. “Also, zinc and an amino acid called L-Carnitine, are helpful. And CoQ10, which is everywhere.” Obesity may factor into low sperm count as well, according to a World Health Organization study conducted in 2009. Obesity has been shown to increase estrogen production, sexual dysfunction and infertility. A good diet and exercise (but maybe not biking) can help increase sperm count. After losing a few extra pounds, your svelte new body may be a real turn on, and that can only help matters in the bedroom.

It’s not all bad news, though.

As hard as some of this may be to hear, there is good news. Rachel Blunk is a licensed and board certified fertility acupuncturist. She’s worked with many couples up and down the Front Range to help them solve their fertility problems. It starts with a Chinese medicine intake. “Our bodies are like a microclimate,” Blunk explains. “In Chinese medicine, we determine if it’s too hot, too wet, too dry, whatever. Then I prescribe a treatment that will help bring the body where it needs to be in order for conception to take place.” Oftentimes, male patients are very concerned about the acupuncture treatments. They are particularly concerned about where the needles are going to be placed. Rachel is quick to point out that patients will not get pricked anyplace that is sensitive: they are needled in the sacral

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

area of the lower back, at points in the ankles and lower legs, the arms and sometimes in their heads. No needles in the noodle. Acupuncture Today reported the results of a study that showed significant improvement in the health of sperm cells of the men involved. After two acupuncture treatments per week over a five week period, semen analysis in the 28 participants showed sperm motility increased from 44.5 percent to 50 percent in the control group and the median sperm count increased by fourfold. The structure of the cells also changes. There were fewer misshapen cells in the control group. “Acupuncture treatments help with stress, too,” states Rachel. “Relaxation is very good for reducing male infertility.” She remembers a patient with a high-stress job who came to her when he and his wife were struggling to get pregnant. “At first he thought acupuncture was a waste of his time, but soon he really started looking forward to the treatments because he completely relaxed. And now, he and his wife have two children.” While no fertility treatment will guarantee pregnancy, taking a good close look at lifestyle choices and making the appropriate modifications may help things along. Swimmingly.

BY THE NUMBERS

•

90 – The percent of sperm in the average ejaculate that are deformed: multiple heads or tails, huge heads and pinheads are among the most common deformity.

•

2 – The average days sperm lives in the female body (can be up to 5).

•

1 - The number of testicles needed to create a baby. If you lose one of the two, your body will still make enough sperm. In fact, the remaining testicle may grow a bit to boost sperm output.

•

40 to 600 Million – The amount of sperm in the average ejaculate.

•

24/7 – Men produce sperm all day, every day throughout their lives.

•

0.002 Inches – From head to tail, the average length of each sperm.

- Information based in part on the blog by Dr. Craig Niederberger, professor of urology at University of Illinois at Chicago. Visit www. maledoc.com for more interesting information about men’s health and fertility.

Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

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MEDICAL

We i g h t L o s s

HO W MEN CA N ATTA I N A

HEALTHY WEI GH T

s the obesity epidemic continues its rampant spread across the United States, University of Colorado Health internal medicine doctor Eric J. Hess treats an ever-increasing number of patients anxious to shed body weight. While women have traditionally been more focused on their weight, men are beginning to pay greater attention to the dreaded number on the scale. For most men weight gain tends to happen in

their abdominal region, which can increase the risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer and sleep apnea. Dr. Hess believes it’s easier to lose weight when you’re paying close attention to what’s going into your body. “Generally, we talk to patients about reducing calories and that is the most effective thing in order to lose weight,” Dr. Hess says. “It’s even more effective if people keep track by calorie counting. If they try to change their diet without keeping track of calories then often times they improve their eating habits, but their caloric intake remains the same. They become

BY KYLE EUSTICE

frustrated because they literally don’t lose any weight. They may be feeling better, but because the caloric intake remains the same, their weight remains the same.” Rather than put a patient in “food jail,” Dr. Hess recommends keeping a food diary to keep track of calories. On average, it takes about 500 calories less a day to lose a pound a week. Losing any more than two pounds a week can be dangerous. Rapid weight loss can create many unwanted side effects, including the development of gallstones, a decrease in metabolism or liver damage.

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“We don’t want to force somebody into a diet or lifestyle they don’t like because they won’t follow it,” he says. “I tend to guide people more into decreasing portions and thinking of it as a lifestyle rather than a diet so they don’t feel guilty if they have a cookie or brownie. You can fit that into a diet as long as you account for the calories.” Rather than changing your diet, can’t you just exercise more and the weight will fall off? Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Decreasing your caloric intake is often the only way to break through the dreaded “plateau effect,” which is the point when your body simply stops shedding more weight and has become so used to the

daily routine that the scale doesn’t budge. Diet is the key, according to Dr. Hess. “A lot of people will ignore the calorie side from the dietary perspective and try to put it all on the exercise portion, but it takes a great deal of exercise to lose weight so people get frustrated there, too,” he explains. “The other thing that people tend to forget is the less you weigh, the fewer calories your body requires. There is that plateau effect that people get when they start to lose weight. They have to readjust their calorie intake in order to lose more weight.” Fad diets have created confusion among many weight loss patients. They are often considered a quick fix, but can easily backfire and usually

How much belly fat is too much? According to a MayoClinic.org article, to find out the answer you need to measure your waist. They recommend this process: • While standing, place a tape measure around your bare stomach just above your hipbones. • Pull the tape measure until it fits snugly around you but does not push into the skin. • Make sure the tape is level all the way around your waist. • Relax, exhale and measure. Resist the instinct to suck in your stomach. Men’s waists should not measure more than 40 inches—this is an indicator of an unhealthy concentration of belly fat that could lead to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer and sleep apnea. Healthy BMI for men. Your body mass index (BMI) is one indicator of a healthy weight. BMI tells you if your weight is in the healthy range for your body type and height. For men, a healthy BMI is as follows: • 18.5 or under – You are underweight. • 18.5 to 24.9 – You are in the recommended weight range for your height. • 25 to 29.9 – You are considered to be in the overweight category. This is not always considered unhealthy, depending on other factors like waist size and current health problems. • 30 or higher – You are in the obese category. Consult your physician about a healthy way to lose weight, including diet and exercise recommendations. BMI is calculated by your height in feet, weight in pounds and waist circumference. Once you have these measurements, visit cdc.gov and search for a BMI calculator in the search bar. According to webmd.com, BMI is only one measure of your health. A person who is not at the “normal” weight according to the BMI chart may still be healthy if he has a healthy diet and exercises regularly—just as a “thin” person who does not exercise or eat well may be considered unhealthy. Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

Weight Loss Tips for Everyone Eric J. Hess, M.D., Internal Medicine, University of Colorado Health do. Permanent weight loss is more about embracing a new lifestyle and thinking about it in the long-term. “A lot of people think about their weight loss on the short term and they go on fad diets they can’t possibly continue,” he says. “They need to get into permanent habits rather than just do it for a little while. You need set periods of time in your day when you’re going to exercise. Then you need to continue to monitor calories regularly and embrace good eating habits as a lifestyle rather than a diet.” There are occasions where diet and exercise fail to yield significant weight loss. In these cases, Dr. Hess checks for a condition known as hypothyroidism, which can significantly reduce metabolism due to a decrease in the thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone pills such as Levothyroxine usually help. However, Dr. Hess warns that some prescriptions drugs may also make it hard to lose weight. “Hypothyroidism is the most common thing we see that prohibits weight loss,” Dr. Hess says. “But there are some medications that cause weight gain, as well, and it’s hard to work against those because patients are on them for good reasons, but they may prohibit weight loss.” For a relatively healthy male, Dr. Hess recommends easing into a fitness program. As an avid runner, he’s seen the benefits of exercise firsthand, but urges patients to find something they like. “If you force someone into something they don’t like to do, they won’t continue to do it,” he says. “I try to get them to do something they enjoy like swimming, biking, running or elliptical trainers. It doesn’t matter what they do as long as we get people moving to be healthy and strong. They should do a combination of cardio and light weightlifting for tone. “The rate of obesity in Colorado is a lot less than, say, in the Midwest or Southeast, but that doesn’t mean we don’t see it,” he adds. “In the past, men didn’t really care. They weighed more and they just kept their belts lower, and were able to wear the same pants, Now men are starting to turn the corner and we’re seeing a lot more men really doing a good job at turning their life around.” Kyle Eustice relocated to Fort Collins from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After spending four years living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, she was anxious to return to the mountain region. She is a regular contributor to Thrasher Skateboarding Magazine, Wax Poetics, Bandwagon Magazine, Ghettoblaster, and many others.

These common sense tips are more about changing habits for better health, rather than recommending you stay away from certain foods altogether. Incorporate these suggestions into your daily routine and see how a little commonsense can translate into a whole lot of calories saved. 1. Eat slowly. Research shows people who are overweight tend to eat too quickly. Take time to enjoy your food, chewing each mouthful about 30 times—which allows enzymes in the saliva to start the digestive process. 2. Stop eating before you feel full. It takes roughly 20 minutes for your stomach to get the message to your brain that it is full. 3. Don’t skip meals. Maintain an even blood sugar level to prevent hunger, which will prevent you from giving in to cravings. 4. Only weigh yourself weekly. Don’t become a slave to your scale. Weight loss is a long process, don’t become discouraged if you don’t drop weight as quickly as you would like. 5. Use a smaller plate. It is a simple way to make you feel like you have had plenty to eat. 6. Reduce alcohol intake. Alcohol is an empty source of calories. 7. Eat high fiber foods. The complex carbohydrates release energy slowly and keep you full longer. 8. Keep hydrated. Often we can mistake thirst for hunger. Water will make you feel full longer. A tip: if you have a between meal craving, try drinking a big glass of water and see if you are still hungry 10 minutes later. 9. Avoid the temptation. Don’t buy sweets and calorie-rich snack items. Instead, stock up on fruit, nuts and other healthy options to keep at home. 10. Exercise. You have a greater chance of losing weight if you incorporate regular exercise into your routine. You have to expend more than you ingest. — Information taken from “10 Common Sense Weight Loss Tips,” WebMD.com.

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MEDICAL

Senior Center

NEW SENIOR CENTER REVEALED

hen it opened in 1995, the Fort Collins Senior Center was an instant success. It answered to a population that wanted—and more importantly, needed—a facility that provided a social hub. Right from the start the Senior Center became the go-to place for folks of a certain age looking for a fitness facility, and a place to socialize and engage in activities to fill in the hours that retirement often left open. Soon, the not-sosilver set discovered the Senior Center located at 1200 Raintree Drive (just a bit northwest of the intersection of Drake and Shields). Today, the Senior Center plays host to visitors and members of all ages: from nonagenarians to millennials. Between 2000 and 2010, Fort Collins saw a 35 percent increase in residents over the age of 65. Part of that can be attributed to natural aging. Then Fort Collins was discovered: Articles in national publications touted our Northern Front Range community as the place to be. “What we found is that, in addition to retirees, grandparents (who were still in the workforce)

BY MICHELLE VENUS

were following their children who were moving to Fort Collins to raise their young families, so they could be close to the grandkids,” explains Peggy Bowers, recreation manager at the Senior Center. “The facility was being used more and more and we needed to increase our capabilities. We just could not keep up with the demand.” And demand continues to grow. According to Colorado State Demographer Elizabeth Garner, by 2030 Colorado’s population of citizens older than age 65 will be 150 percent larger than it was in 2010. By 2005, it was evident that the nationally acclaimed Senior Center, as it was, was not going to adequately serve its client base unless some big changes were made. “Citizens went to City Council to get a Building On Basics tax initiative on the ballot to expand this facility and focus on health and wellness,” states Bob Adams, recreation director for the city. “As soon as the doors opened, we were at capacity and the seniors took it into their hands to get an expansion going.” “It was more than adding on to the fitness portion of the Senior Center,” chimes in John Litel, community relations manager for Parks and Recreation. “We increased programming and

partnered with University of Colorado Health and Columbine Health Systems to create a comprehensive health and wellness program. It was not just the footprint of the building that expanded.” This summer, after nine months of construction, the Senior Center unveiled the $6.8 million, 17,000 square foot expansion. It is quite impressive. Upon entering the Senior Center, visitors walk through a gathering area with seating for reading or conversation. Just beyond the gathering area is the front desk, where a cheerful check-in takes place. Take a peek beyond that desk and you will see a room filled with natural light where game and puzzle tables are set up. Every single seat is taken by people contemplating their card hand or finding the perfect fit for a puzzle piece. Adams recalls a large jigsaw puzzle that took more than an entire week to complete. Almost everyone who passed by contributed, including Adams, as they walked by to other parts of the facility. “And I’m not a puzzle person,” he says. Hallways branch off the lobby area in different directions leading to meeting rooms, staff offices, the health and wellness area, workrooms, a pool and snooker center, an auditorium, media center

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The Fort Collinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior Center underwent a $6.8 million expansion that features a new fitness wing with basketball courts, weight and cardio room, group fitness room and lap pool. Though the Senior Center targets the 50-plus crowd, the amenities there are available for anyone age 18 and up.

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

The remodel also redesigned the lobby area to create a large space that encourages members to sit and read or gather for conversation. Programming was also revamped and expanded to include new activities for members.

and library, a professional kitchen and a stage with an area that opens up to accommodate different sized audiences. There are an additional 156 parking spaces to the west of the building. City Council member Gerry Horak even has an office there. The first floor saw the greatest expansion. In addition to the enhanced lobby, the health and wellness areas were built to accommodate programs that span three different categories: Health Awareness, Lifestyle Management and Wellness and Education. Offerings include informational sessions that help people navigate through complicated medical options, explaining what acupuncture is and how it can benefit the individual, nutritional classes, golf assessments, yoga and tai chi classes, massage, foot care clinics and audiology and blood pressure screenings. These are just a few among many opportunities the Senior Center has developed with its new programming. A fully equipped wood working shop, the Sumac Studio, is available to members, as well as the Indian Paintbrush Art Center where classes are held and members can drop in to work on projects. Corridor walls highlight the artworks of instructors and their students (pieces are available to purchase). Other popular first floor areas include the Goldenrod Pool and Snooker Center and the Prairie

Flax Media Center. “This is where some of our members have learned how to use computers. Their first time on the Internet was here at the Senior Center,” says Bowers. The Twinberry Auditorium is used for different types of presentations and features a state-ofthe-art audio/visual system and auditorium-style seating. The room—and others in the Senior Center—can be rented by the public. Recently the Senior Center hosted a live video presentation by an east coast art museum. The presenter was able to interact with the audience during the lively and engaging session. Just off the front gathering area is the Yarrow Fitness Center, where fitness equipment is located. “Most of the equipment is accessible to our members in wheelchairs,” says Adams. He points to a weight machine for upper body workouts. “All they have to do is maneuver their chair into this spot and they can use this piece.” “The fitness areas are especially popular with our younger members,” says Bowers. Members must be at least 18 years old. “All of the members like working out here, because they feel safe. Sometimes health clubs can be a bit intimidating, and that’s not the environment at the Senior Center.” The gym, pool, spa and locker rooms are clustered near the Yarrow Fitness Center. Upstairs is the cardio and weight room and the

indoor track. The Windflower Room, just off to the side of the track, is used for classes such as yoga and Zumba. “Before the expansion, weight equipment was tucked in the corners of the track and the gym,” says Adams. “But now we have spaces dedicated to the different activities. It’s much better.” The Senior Center is open to anyone over the age of 18, though the focus on Senior Center’s recreation programs has primarily been on the 50-plus population. The Senior Center plans to include additional opportunities that will attract the community’s growing “boomer” population as well as younger adults. “Since the opening of the expansion in July, pass sales have increased by 38 percent (270 passes issued in the month of July), many of those pass holders were new participants,” says Litel. “The Recreation Department looks forward to developing programs and services for all adults while targeting the 50-plus population. The Department encourages adults to visit the facility and realize the variety of opportunities that exist in the bigger, better, healthier Senior Center.” Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

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Special Dental Section Enjoy our October Special Dental Section. In addition to several dental topics to enjoy, we have compiled a directory of Northern Colorado dentists through the Colorado Dental Association. Visit our website, www.medicalandwellness.com, to view the directory and find a dentist, orthodontist or other specialist for you and your family.

Topics in this magazine include: 42 - The Top Consumer Dental Products 44 – Project Smile – Helping Children in Need 46 – Antibiotics Before a Visit to the Dentist?

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

Latest in Consumer Dental Products What products to dentists suggest when it comes to at home oral healthcare? Here are a few popular products that can help make taking care of those pearly whites even easier.

Tooth Whiteners Convenience, affordability and results all factored into TopConsumerReviews.comâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top pick for teeth whitening systems. Nova White took the top spot with their custom whitening trays and 30-day money back guarantee. Whitening kits start at $54, custom whitening trays start at $150. www.novawhite. com However, if you want cheap and fast, TotalBeauty.com ranked Plus White 5 Minute Speed Whitening System as the best whitening product in 2014. At $10.99 it is a steal.

Mouthwash Dr. Katz Therabreath Oral Rinse, available on Amazon.com, is an oxygenating mouthwash that neutralizes the bacteria responsible for producing bad breath. It also treats dryness of the mouth and has no alcohol added. $25. Another favorite is Biotene Oral Rinse, specially designed for dry mouth and bad breath. No burning sensation. $12.

Dental Floss/Picks Unwaxed Woven Floss, thick and yarnlike, is the best bet for normal teeth with adequate space between each tooth. Look for Woven Floss at your pharmacy. An alternative is Oral-B SuperFloss, a thicker floss that can catch plaque easily. If you have tight teeth, try Reach Total Care Floss. It is stretchy with microgrooves to increase surface area and sweep away plaque and the ribbon-like design sweeps right through tight spaces between teeth. On the go? Try GUM Soft Picks. These soft, flexible teeth cleaners slide right between teeth and around orthodontic appliances and dentures to sweep away food particles and plaque. The take up virtually no room in a purse or pocket and can keep your smile at its best all day long. $2.99.

Electric Toothbrush The Oral-B Professional Healthy Clean Floss Actions Precision 5000, a rechargeable electric toothbrush, is from the #1 dentist recommended toothbrush brand. The toothbrush has 50 percent more brush movements than other sonic technology and the replacement heads are cheaper than other brands. $159.99.

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Toothpaste All-around: The American Dental Association has recognized Crest Pro-Health ($4) as the only toothpaste to provide all of these benefits in one brand: whitening, sensitivity, prevention of cavities, gingivitis, plaque and bad breath. For whitening: Try the spendy but dentistdesigned Supersmile Professional Whitening System ($21, www.supersmile.com). It is billed as the #1 recommended toothpaste by cosmetic dentists. Or go for the more economical Arm & Hammer Advanced White Toothpaste ($4). Natural: The Natural Dentist Anticavity ($6) and Weledaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salt Toothpaste ($8) are both well regarded if you are looking for a more natural toothpaste option without added artificial flavors or color. The Natural Dentist contains fluoride but does not have sodium lauryl sulfate and is not tested on animals. Weledaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toothpaste uses sea salt and baking soda, as well as myrrh extract for gums. They do not add fluoride to their toothpaste. Sensitive teeth:â&#x20AC;¨It may take trying a few brands before you find the right option for your sensitive teeth but give these three over-the-counter brands a try: Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief and Arm and Hammer Sensitive, as suggested by online dentist blog dg-dentistry.com.

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

WELLNESS

Dental

Dr. Codi volunteered in September for Project Smile’s screening day at Irish Elementary School.

ON E SMILE AT A T I ME

alking into the Redeemer Lutheran Church, the faint roar of children could be heard from down the hall as they prepared for a Project Smile event. Inside, dozens of kids were busy stuffing toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss into thousands of plastic bags to be distributed to a handful of schools around the Fort Collins area, including Irish Elementary School, La Familia Early Childhood Program, Centennial High School, Tavelli Elementary, Linton Elementary, Laurel Elementary and Putnam Elementary. Established in 2007, Project Smile is the result of a request from Irish Elementary to assist with the

students’ dental needs. Project Smile works with all families, but concentrates on those without insurance coverage and on Medicaid or Child Health Plan of Colorado (CHP+), which is a lower income type of insurance. Each year, the hardworking volunteers, dentists and various board members hold a number of dental screenings at each school to pinpoint the students that could benefit from dental work. This also includes educating the children on oral hygiene and preventative maintenance. Care Coordinator Jill Pfankuch has worked for pediatric dentist Greg Evans, D.D.S., for many years. Her involvement with Project Smile started at the grassroots level. She is instrumental in informing the parents about each child’s dental needs and getting them the care they need. “Every child in every school in the district is

BY KYLE EUSTICE

eligible for services, as long as they live in the Poudre School District, from birth through the day they graduate from high school,” Pfankuch explains. “Part of our program requires children to brush their teeth during the school day as part of class curriculum. We give them toothbrushes and toothpaste to take home, as well. They are given instructions at school on how to floss and brush. We do the screenings at the schools in the fall so we send home permission forms to the families. They can either say yes or no to having their teeth checked at school. We have volunteer dentists throughout the community who come out to do the screenings. They do a quick visual check to see if they can see any cavities or anything that needs to be taken care of.” Once the screenings are complete, the forms the dentists have filled out are separated into

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Left: One of Project Smile’s early successes. This young gal had 18 of her 20 baby teeth in serious decay. The reconstruction gave her smile—and confidence—back. Volunteers (center, upper right) show the elementary children the proper way to brush and floss. Eye screenings through Project Vision (lower right) are another service provided by Project Smile.

different groups; those that need immediate care, care that can wait a while and those who do not need care at all. If it’s determined a child requires dental work, Pfankuch is given a list of their names from Lynette Salzman, the Operations Coordinator for Project Smile. Within a week, a form is sent to the parents to let them know Project Smile has seen them and they should schedule an appointment soon. “If they are one of the kids that we call Level 1, which can include four or more cavities, an infection, abscess or current pain, I call the families personally,” she says. “I ask them if they need help finding a dentist that works with Project Smile. All of the pediatric dentists in the area work with Project Smile so it’s fairly easy to find a dentist with some time in their schedules.” Fort Collins resident Geoff Engelhardt, D.D.S., has been involved with Project Smile since its inception. He has witnessed amazing transformations in countless children over the years. One of the most complex cases involved a young girl with 18 out of her 20 baby teeth in horrible decay. A Project Smile dentist was able to completely reconstruct her teeth, giving her a healthy mouth and tremendously boosting her self-esteem. Dr. Engelhardt knows what a difference this kind of care can make in a child’s life. “It’s an amazing feeling,” Dr. Engelhardt says. “You have to think about what it’s going to do for this child for the rest of her life—not just now, but where this child is headed. The doors are going to open for her. Our society looks at

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

aesthetics. It’s important to have a good smile, but more importantly, to be out of pain. Children learn better, stay in school and their self-esteem goes through the roof, which is so important.” “She was one example that made it easy to demonstrate the power of Project Smile because she had so many cavities at the same time,” Dr. Evans adds. “Those first few years, we took care of many kids with urgent needs. That’s been the success of Project Smile. There haven’t been as many kids with urgent needs as there used to be. I think it’s because of this program.” Without Project Smile, say Drs. Engelhardt and Evans, the young girl would have had all of her teeth removed, leaving her without any teeth for many years, which would have been long enough to wreak havoc on her young self-esteem. “Before she would never open her mouth or talk to anybody, but after the procedure she came in with a big, bright smile and wanted to show off her new, beautiful teeth,” Pfankuch recalls. “Not to mention, she didn’t have pain anymore.” Thanks to the success of Project Smile, Project Vision emerged in 2011. Similar in nature, Project Vision addresses the need for glasses for students having trouble concentrating in the classroom and seeing the chalkboard. “Proper vision goes hand-in-hand with learning,” Pfankuch explains. “We now do a screening at the schools for dental and vision, usually on the same day. Carole Kitchell, Project Smile Vision Coordinator, helps with the vision portion. She’ll find out from the screening which children need

glasses. The child can go to any Wal-Mart in Fort Collins for a doctor who works with Project Vision and they perform an entire eye exam to determine what kind of glasses the child needs. They get a voucher for two pairs, one to take to school and one to leave at home.” Of course, there have been challenges but with enough community support, Dr. Evans, Dr. Engelhardt and Pfankuch believe it can carry on. They hope it can be a model for other cities in other states. “I hope we can grow enough to get some full-time staff and expand to every school in the district,” Dr. Evans says. “Right now, we are a small volunteer group. It has taken us some time to grow and mature, but we’ve made some great progress in just a few years.” “We’ve made a huge dent in this problem at these schools and I’d hate to see it fall by the wayside,” Dr. Engelhardt says. “That would sadden me greatly. We need new people to come on board to keep up the mission and continue our vision of this incredible program.” Kyle Eustice relocated to Fort Collins from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After spending four years living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, she was anxious to return to the mountain region. She is a regular contributor to Thrasher Skateboarding Magazine, Wax Poetics, Bandwagon Magazine, Ghettoblaster, and many others.

WELLNESS

Dental

A N TIB IOTICS B E FO R E A

VISIT TO THE DENTIST?

o unravel medical debates, most people are attracted by the limitless reaches of the Internet and can’t resist the urge to consult the oracle of Google. But the result can be more confounding than enlightening. For example, consider this question: Should patients take antibiotics as a preventive measure before dental procedures, especially those at risk of complications from infection due to recent joint replacement surgery or a heart condition? There is no shortage of answers: many from reputable professional sources including the American Dental Association (ADA), the American

Heart Association and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). But reading these sources does not necessarily reveal a prudent course of action. Healthcare professionals who spoke with Northern Colorado Medical and Wellness tell how advances in science can contribute to the confusion. Dr. Jonathan Anderson, of Shores Family Dentistry and a member of the Board of Directors of Delta Dental of Colorado, explains that at the center of this debate is the need to balance different risks to vulnerable patients in light of new findings from medical research. What was once advisable in 2008 can become questionable just four short years later. And, there can

BY ELISSA TIVONA

be lag time between understanding new risks and modifying established practice. “[When] we’re talking about antibiotics before dental procedures, it’s really broken into two groups: The artificial joint patients are in one group and the cardiac patients are in another. In 2008, the ADA wrote the guidelines [concerning the use of preventive antibiotics] to cover both groups. But in 2012 the AAOS got together with the ADA and wrote some new guidelines just for the artificial joint patients. That’s why there’s a little conflicting information,” explains Dr. Anderson. Today, Dr. Anderson says, “the real problem is that more people have serious medical complications from taking the antibiotics than they

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Dr. Jonathan Anderson, with Shores Family Dentistry, explains the medical recommendations behind antibiotics during dental procedures. do from the rare joint or heart problems. So the real risk is with taking the antibiotics. That’s why people are trying to scale it back. Patients actually have more problems from serious allergic reactions (or adverse reactions) to antibiotics than they do serious complications from bacteremia.” Prior to new findings, dentists, cardiologists and orthopedic surgeons were less averse to recommending antibiotic prophylaxis (preventive antibiotics) to a wide range of patients. Under ideal circumstances the procedure calls for giving a concentrated dose (typically four times the regular dose) one hour prior to any dental procedure involving gum manipulation that might cause bleeding and introduce oral bacteria into the bloodstream. The medical worry was that oral bacteria mixed in the blood could result in increased risk for infection in other, weakened parts of the body. Today, although the protocol remains, far fewer patients in either the cardiac or joint replacement category are considered at risk for the feared infections. Instead, concern is on the rise over increasing risk of severe allergic or adverse reactions associated with antibiotic use. As an example, Dr. Anderson notes the alarming rise in the incidence and virulence of C-diff (Clostridium Difficile, also known to as pseudomembranous colitis). C-diff is a potentially fatal infection caused by an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the digestive tract, which leads to prolonged bouts of watery and/or bloody diarrhea. It is highly correlated with prolonged or frequent antibiotic use. The condition is especially dangerous to those who are most fragile like the elderly and others prescribed with antibiotics on a regular basis. The orthopedic surgeons were among the

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

first to publically back away from recommending an antibiotic protocol prior to dentistry. In 2012, the ADA and the AAOS released the first co-developed evidence-based guideline called Prevention of Orthopaedic Implant Infection in Patients Undergoing Dental Procedures. The literature review found no direct evidence that dental procedures cause orthopedic implant infection. Even with updated guidelines for clinical practice, Dr. Anderson strongly urges patients to consult directly with their orthopedic surgeon. The surgeon is intimately involved with all aspects of each case and may choose to override the guideline in select cases. “Normally, we’ll follow whatever the surgeon says, and then we follow the ADA guidelines,” says Dr. Anderson Also according to the 2012 ADA report, Oral Health Topics—Antibiotic Prophylaxis, cardiologists are reconsidering their previous recommendations. They share concern over scientific evidence showing that the risk of adverse reactions to antibiotics outweigh the possible benefits of prophylaxis for cardiac patients. The report says, “The current recommendations support premedication for a smaller group of patients than previous versions. Concern about the development of drug-resistant bacteria also was a factor.” Colleen Blumenshine, a triage nurse at Cardiology and Thoracic Surgery at the Heart Center of the Rockies, confirms that guidelines for preventive medication for patients with heart problems have been substantially modified from ones issued in 1997. New guidelines are summarized in an updated wallet card from the American Heart Association National Center, which is provided to any

patient at increased risk for adverse outcomes from infective endocarditis (IE). IE is an infection that occurs in the lining of the heart when bacteria from another part of the body, such as the mouth, spread through the bloodstream. The new wallet card cites experts from the American Heart Association’s Endocarditis Committee, who found no conclusive evidence that links dental, GI or GU tract procedures with the development of IE. Therefore, “the current practice of giving patients antibiotics prior to a dental procedure is no longer recommended except for patients with the highest risk of adverse outcomes resulting from IE….” Again, Dr. Anderson stresses that cardiac patients should consult with their physicians to get a final decision on whether they are in that “highest risk” category. Customarily, dental practices like the Shores Family Dentistry keep antibiotics on-hand. “If there’s a doubt we give antibiotics,” says Dr. Anderson. But he adds the following cautionary note to patients, “next time, check with your orthopedic surgeon or with your cardiologist and see what they say because we’re shying away from doing these antibiotic prophylaxis on most patients.” If you’re a web surfer, double check dates on all downloaded material because guidelines change regularly. And for the most reliable information, be sure to discuss any concerns raised by these reports with your medical practitioners prior to the dental visit.

Elissa Tivona is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DENTISTRY

Centre Family Dentistry Jordan Humbert, DDS Jordan Humbert, DDS, a General Dentist at Centre Family Dentistry in Fort Collins, warmly welcomes new patients of all ages into his family practice. Dr. Humbert enjoys all aspects of dentistry, including fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, Invisalign (clear braces) and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Humbert has advanced training in the surgical placement of implants then is able to complete the final restoration as well. Dental Implants are changing the way people live. For fearful patients who have previously avoided seeing a dentist due to traumatic experiences or have had problems getting numb, Dr. Humbert implements many options for comfortable sedation dentistry. By providing options ranging from Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas), to pill sedation, to IV sedation, Dr. Humbert is able to help his patients achieve maximum oral health in a way that is most comfortable for them. With local dental specialists coming to our office, we are able to complete treatment with fewer visits while the patient is sedated. Dr. Humbert is a member of the American Dental Association, the Colorado Dental Association, and the Larimer County Dental Society. He is passionate about pursuing continuing education and prides himself on keeping his practice filled with stateof-the-art technology, such as intra-oral cameras, digital xrays and 3D/CT Imaging. By providing his patients with above-and-beyond comfort, servicesand technological advances, Dr. Humbert makes it his goal in caring for his patients to help them get the healthy smiles they deserve.

Centre Family Dentistry 1001 Centre Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80526 970-407-1001 WWW.FORTCOLLINSDENTIST.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ENDODONTICS

Endodontics of the Rockies “Comfortable” is not a term often associated with root canal treatment, but Endodontics of the Rockies is committed to providing a specialty dental experience that is just that.

Doctors Laura L. Milroy, DDS, MS and David M. Jones, DDS, with their well-trained assistants and staff are aware of the anxiety that some patients experience when they hear the words “root canal.” Endodontics of the Rockies is dedicated to reducing that stress with processes that address a patient’s concerns every step of the way. They begin with insurance pre-authorization and cost estimates, as well as prompt accessibility in true emergencies. Then, patients can expect state-of-the-art diagnostics and a detailed explanation of treatment options, allowing them to make informed decisions about their own health. Finally, patients receive care that involves the latest developments in the field and engaged follow-up contact. Endodontics of the Rockies is the advanced resource for comfortable root canal care in northern Colorado, with offices in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Longmont, treating patients from all over northern Colorado, southeastern Wyoming, and western Nebraska. Learn more at www.endorockies.com or call 970. 568.5255 (Fort Collins), 970.292.6703 (Loveland), or 303.651.0202 (Longmont).

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

Fort Collins Office 1903 Wilmington Dr., #101, Fort Collins, CO 80528 (970) 568-5255 Loveland Office 2996 Ginnala Dr., #101, Loveland, CO 80538 (970) 292-6703 Longmont Office 1055 17th Ave., #105, Longmont, CO 80501 (303) 651-0202

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DENTISTRY

Front Range Dental Center “Our mission is to create healthy and beautiful smiles for your entire family in a trusting and relaxing environment.”

Our family, general, preventive and cosmetic dentistry team in Fort Collins consists of some of the nation’s best dentists. We are locally owned and operated. We’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve beautiful, dazzling smiles in a comfortable enviroment. We’ve spared no expense in providing our patients with the absolute state of the art in equipment and care. Not only is it convenient to have your dental procedures performed in our Fort Collins office, but a team approach to dentistry means better communication between the dentists who treat you, which ultimately achieves the best dental result. Dr. Kathryn Radtke, Dr. Brad Eckhardt, Dr. Sandra Hunter, Dr. Flora Trang and our team of caring professionals at Front Range Dental Center are dedicated to giving you the smile you have always wanted.

Our Service Guarantee to You: • Our dentists will treat you with the respect and compassion that you deserve. • Front Range Dental Center follows strict guidelines to keep our dental office as clean and safe as possible. • Our dental staff continues to participate in continuing education, to offer you only the highest quality dentistry. • We will always be honest about your treatment needs and cost.

Front Range Dental Center 2720 Council Tree Ave #260, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 672-4128 www.frontrangedentalcenter.com

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PROSTHODONTICS

Dr. Justin K. Liddle, DMD CDT As a specialty clinic we are invested in the longterm success of your smile. Compared to many dental offices we work with a limited amount of patients at a time. The term “prostho” means replacement and “dontist” means dealing with teeth. Prosthodontists are the recognized experts when anything needs to be replaced or repaired in your mouth. Ranging from a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth. Many dentists can do some or all of these treatments, but prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care. Prosthodontists expertly restore and replace teeth. They have trained 3 additional years after dental school. Prosthodontists are also considered the “quarterbacks” of the dental treatment plan. They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialists, and other health professionals to develop solutions for the benefit of your dental needs. As a specialty clinic we are invested in the longterm success of your smile. Compared to many dental offices we work with a limited amount of patients at a time. This insures your concerns will be heard and your issues are properly diagnosed. For a lot of those that seek care in our office, it can be a life changing investment and we want to make sure that you are comfortable at every step. Dr. Liddle has been recognized internationally for his successful treatment in esthetics and implant dentistry. In addition to his specialty certificate in prosthodontics he is also a certified dental technician. This additional expertise gives him better control and customization of your restorations. Outside the office you can find Dr. Liddle on adventures with his 3 daughters or running our local trails.

2001 S. Shields #B-1 Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 224-4358 www.colorado-prosthodontics.com

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

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ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Brad Edgren Orthodontics is not just about braces or tooth alignment. Our practice philosophy is designed around the treatment of the total face, rather than the narrower objective of treating just the teeth and/or just the occlusion (bite). We focus on customizing the Orthodontic and Dentofacial treatment plan to each individual that enters our office. This includes evaluating upper airway patency, potentially impacting teeth, dental crowding, transverse discrepancies, and future facial growth when examining the orthodontic patient. An orthodontic result that appears to be balanced at age 12 may be a failed result as early as age 18 because future facial growth, especially excessive lower jaw growth, airway problems, etc. were not taken into consideration. We recommend seeing patients by at least age 7 to take full advantage of future dentofacial growth to optimize the longevity of the orthodontic result. Appropriate early interceptive orthodontic treatment reduces tooth extractions, jaw surgeries, and improves upper airway patency; reducing potential sleep apnea problems as adults. We pride ourselves in that we are not just attending continuing education courses to better serve our patients but are actually teaching these courses and authoring continuing education articles that other orthodontic practitioners are attending and reading. Thus our office is on the cutting edge of advanced orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic Associates of Greeley 3400 West 16th Street, Bldg 4-V Greeley, CO 80634-6898 (970) 356-5900 www.drbradsmiles.com

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ORAL & MAXIOFACIAL SURGERY

Reynolds

Oral & Facial Surgery Ralph R. Reynolds, DMD, MD Dr. Ralph Reynolds is board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He is licensed to practice dentistry and medicine in the state of Colorado. In 1995 he graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He is dual degreed, having both a dental and medical degree. Dr. Reynolds has been practicing and living in Colorado since 2001. He is married and has five children. In 2011 Dr. Reynolds built and opened his new office in Loveland. The new facility offers state of the art technology and sterility and yet a friendly and cozy atmosphere. In 2014 Dr. Reynolds purchased a new satellite office in Greeley and he now practices four days a week in Loveland and one day a week in Greeley. Dr. Reynolds offers complete oral and facial surgical care in a compassionate and professional manner. He surrounds himself with highly qualified, professional and caring staff, which facilitates providing high quality care to his patients. The scope of Dr. Reynoldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; practice consist of wisdom teeth removal with IV sedation and deep sedation, other dental extractions, placement of dental implants to replace missing teeth, AllOn-4, teeth in a day, immediate loaded implants and implant supported dentures, bone grafts associated with implant placement, cosmetic facial surgery and cosmetic facial procedures, treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, oral pathology, facial trauma reconstruction and orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery. Dr. Reynolds is also a member of the facial trauma team which serves UC Healthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH) and Medical Center of The Rockies (MCR).

Reynolds Oral & Facial Surgery

3520 E 15th St #102, Loveland, CO 80538 970-663-6878 | www.reynoldsoralfacial.com

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

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ORTHODONTICS

Braces U Orthodontics Dr. Cory Coombs and Dr. Robert Lamb Braces U Orthodontics offers a full range of orthodontic services for children, teens, and adults, utilizing the latest in braces and Invisalign technology to give you the greatest results in the fastest time! Dr. Cory Coombs and Dr. Robert Lamb are orthodontic specialists with over 30 combined years of experience serving Northern Colorado and Eastern Wyoming. Knowing how busy everyone is, everything in our office is designed for and, focused on, providing the highest quality treatment in the most convenient and comfortable way possible. Our unique braces (The Damon System) maximize movement for longer time intervals allowing for fewer appointments with more comfort. As part of our commitment to offering the most convenient and memorable orthodontic experience, we now offer a shuttle service called the Braces Bus that transports patients to and from schools in Fort Collins, Loveland and Windsor for regular orthodontic appointments. From our certified and accredited orthodontic specialists, to the highly skilled technicians and office, you can depend on us to provide you with the smile you have always wanted!

Braces U Orthodontics

4360 Boardwalk Dr. | Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-226-5505 | www.bracesu.com

ENDODONTICS

Center for Endodontic Care Kelly Taylor, DDS, MS | Anthony Girardi, DDS | Amber Severin, DDS, MS Our endodontists, with 45 years combined experience specializing in root canal therapy, share a common philosophy about patient care. Using state-of-the-art equipment in a relaxing environment, we take time to fully educate patients, listen to concerns, and answer questions. Patients from Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska have trusted our doctors since 1982 because we provide exceptional care, treating each patient with respect and kindness. For our patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; convenience, we have offices in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Greeley.

www.centerforendocare.com

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COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry of the Rockies Travis R. Willey, DDS Dr. Travis R. Willey received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Utah in Medical Biology and continued his studies at Marquette University School of Dentistry where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Dr. Willey’s professional interests include General Dentistry with an emphasis on Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry. Invisalign and Veneers are two areas within Cosmetic Dentistry which Dr. Willey and his team have extensive experience and knowledge. Dr. Willey’s team are some of the most experienced Invisalign providers in the area and have been designated by the makers of Invisalign as Preferred Providers based on the number of patients they’ve treated and ongoing clinical education — and their experience makes your experience better. Dr. Willey is committed to and passionate about continuing education, using the latest techniques and technology to provide the best care that’s available to ensure a beautiful and healthy smile for a lifetime. Dr. Willey is a loving husband and a proud father of 3 beautiful children. They all love Fort Collins which has not only been a great place to raise a family, but has provided opportunities to enjoy many interests including, hiking, camping, fishing, cycling, skiing, and golf.

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of the Rockies 4745 Boardwalk Dr., Suite D102 Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 223-6101 | www.smilefortcollins.com

2013 2012 2011

PROSTHODONTIST

Front Range Dentures and Prosthodontics Blake Barney, DDS, MSD I recently moved to the Fort Collins area after completing my Master of Science in Dentistry and Specialty Certification in Prosthodontics at the University of Washington in Seattle. My additional training with world-class dental experts has provided me with the cutting edge tools to provide my patients with the best my field has to offer. I have a passion for dentures that are functional and look natural, even for those patients who have been told they have a challenging case. I believe in educating my patients on their best options, from a single tooth partial to full-mouth, implant-supported and retained restorations. Our in-house dental lab allows us immediate feedback with our highly qualified technician, eliminating timely errors and misunderstandings. Please visit for your free consultation. I look forward to meeting with you.

Front Range Dentures and Prosthodontics 1525 Riverside Avenue, Suite B Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 493-9001 | nocodentures@gmail.com

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

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PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Big Grins Greg Evans, DDS Designed to delight and engage kids from ages 0-16, Big Grins offers excellent customer service while inviting your kids to learn about their dental health. Your kids will love the play oriented environment and you will love the level of dental expertise you will receive! Dr. Greg and his staff are experienced in befriending kids and teaching them brushing and flossing in an age-appropriate way. Come visit our unique office and see for yourself a whole new way of caring for your children.

Big Grins

3221 Eastbrook Drive | Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-407-1020 | www.biggrinswithdrgreg.com

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WELLNESS

Holistic Eye Care

Dr. Roger Billica, founder of Tri-Life Health, touts the Dr. Kondrot program for eye health and vision restoration. He offers the Kondrot method through his clinic.

A HO LIST IC AP PR O A C H

TO EYE C A R E

he wonders of modern medicine for the eyes go beyond corrective lenses and eye exams. The functional and integrative medical practice of Tri-Life Health is proving that sometimes the alternative to traditional medicine can be a good place to start and a healthy approach to eyesight. Tri-Life Health’s group of physicians is using cutting edge scientific treatment methods and paradigms with an integrative focus for the eyes. It’s a creative option to standard approaches with an emphasis on diet, lifestyle, genetic and biochemical testing. Dr. Roger Billica is the founder of the Tri-Life Health Center for Integrative Medicine in Fort

BY MALINI BARTELS

Collins. Their primary goal at the center is to aid people in achieving optimal health. They accomplish this by helping people recover from chronic degenerative disease and educating people to promote and maintain healthy aging. They work with men, women and kids of all ages; tackling maladies across the board, even those battling addictions. The doctors at Tri-Life are board certified family practice doctors committed to providing quality healthcare services. They look at the underlying process that is making you unhealthy and seek out and fix the root causes of the problems, rather than just managing the symptoms. A little over a year ago, Dr. Billica attended a conference and met a homeopathic ophthalmologist who is using the same approaches as the

doctors at Tri-Life, but applying the philosophy to eye therapy. Dr. Edward Kondrot runs the prestigious Center for Healing the Eye in Florida. He devotes his practice to traditional and alternative therapies for the treatment of eye disease and promoting wellness of sight, body, mind and spirit. He is the creator of Healing the Eye - Wellness Series and the author of 10 Essentials to Save Your Sight. The Kondrot Program is a comprehensive vision restoration program that successfully treats a variety of eye conditions, including macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Dr. Billica has trained in Kondrot’s specific protocols and can perform his therapies. TriLife conducts a local six-month Healing the Eye program. The program is a safe, non-invasive

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option for eye treatment and vision correction. Getting started in the program is simple. If you have medical eye records conducted within the past three months, Dr. Billica sends them to Dr. Kondrot who then reviews the records and develops a patient-specific treatment plan. At Tri-Life Health, everyone who enters the eye program takes three vision tests. The first tests visual acuity, the second test is about visual contrast sensitivity and the third tests an individual’s visual fields, aka: peripheral vision. The next step in the program is based on Dr. Kondrot’s customized treatment plan. Patients are given nutritional IVs, frequency specific microcurrent, syntonic light-color therapy and detoxification protocols to follow. Dosage and times are dependent upon the ailment, patient history and desired results. Participants in the program are also given ozone enhanced eye drops and, only if necessary, hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The amount of time patients in the Healing the Eye program spend at the Tri-Life clinic is only three days. During that time, training occurs for each individual to be able to perform the above procedures at home, every day for the next six months. With the exception of the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, patients are given their own equipment to conduct the protocols on themselves in privacy. The three days at the clinic are enhanced with wonderfully nutritious lunches prepared by a specially trained chef. The meals are wellrounded, sensitive to dietary restrictions and are designed for optimal nutritional absorption. Dr. Billica and a certified nutritionist also conduct lectures on healthy eating during the program and everyone is taught how to create healthy meals at home. As part of the program, you can come into the clinic for nutritional IVs once a month as well. Everyone who enters the eye program is required to check in with Dr. Billica at the onemonth, three-month and six-month mark. At the end of six months, all the tests are repeated. The patient is evaluated for improvements and recommendations are made based on the results. The Kondrot Method warns people of the dangers of unknown-sourced fish oil for the eyes. Recent studies have shown that the “parent oils,” which are vegetable oil sources of Omega 6, are safer, cleaner and better received by the body. Educating people about the dos and don’ts for maintaining healthy eyes is essential to the program. “Eighty-five percent of the patients who work with Dr. Kondrot’s methods have shown significant improvement,” says Billica. “If we make the eyeball healthier and improve its function as an organ, then a person can experience improved vision and stop and possibly even reverse disease progression.” “Integrative medicine indicates that we are willing to integrate tools from all types of healthcare approaches,” states Dr. Billica. “Not being limited by prescriptions means we can use homeothopy, frequency specific microcurrent, epigenetics and other resources.” “Our approach to eye health is as scientific and evidence based as anything out there,” adds Dr. Billica. “We love preventative medicine. Patients

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

Roger Billica, M.D. Tri-Life Health

have come to us already sick and their disease is managed, but they are not healthy again. We work with them to get better. It takes a motivated patient and the outcome is positive.” Dr. Billica knows his stuff. He was a flight surgeon and Chief of Aero-medical services in the Air Force for several years before being appointed to the NASA Space Program in 1989. He served as Chief of Medical Operation at NASA for almost a decade. While at NASA, he managed healthcare aspects of over 60 space shuttle missions. In 2001, Dr. Billica founded Tri-Life Health in Fort Collins. He enticed his brother Bill Billica, M.D., to join the practice as well as Dr. Mark Hoenig. There is even a certified nutritionist on staff at Tri-Life, bringing a well-rounded, integrative approach to medicine. There is a plan for future expansion in their current location and the need for their services keeps growing in popularity on a national level. For more information about Dr. Edward Kondrot and his practice, please visit www.HealingTheEye.com. He can also be contacted directly at DrKondrot@HealingTheEye.com Additional information about Tri-Life Health can be found at www.trilifehealth. com. Free seminars about the Healing the Eye Program are held once a month at Tri-Life with required registration. Call the treatment center at (970) 530-3060 to sign up for the seminar.

Malini Bartels is a freelance writer, chef, mother, radio host and actress living the good life in Fort Collins.

According to Dr. Kondrot and his program, there are 10 keys to saving your sight. Nutrition and Supplements: Effective measures everyone can accomplish are buying organic food whenever possible and boosting one’s diet with supplements. Folic acid is particularly known to help reduce macular degeneration. Avoiding microwaves is helpful as well since it changes the molecular structure of your food (And you just spent more money buying organic!). Dr. Kondrot emphasizes that eyes need to get enough vitamin D from sunlight and other natural sources as well. Hydration and Detoxification: Once you set up your kitchen to eat the right foods, then you can start detoxifying and repairing your body. One of the best ways is to drink half your body weight in ounces of pure, clean water. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, drink 100 ounces of water per day. Relaxation: This is about balancing your autonomic nervous system. Light balance, breathing and soothing music are key to a balanced nervous system. Movement: It’s true. If you move more, your vision will improve! Exercise is extremely important to everyone, especially as they age. Movement can drastically improve your functional vision, which is the indicator of how well we see when we are using our eyes as intended. Did you know that using a trampoline is fantastic for your vision? Vision Therapies: There are several kinds of highly effective, non-invasive vision therapy

techniques that can be used to train your eyes. Palming is one such technique where the hands are cupped over the eyes with out touching them to develop a relaxed sense around your eyes. Homeopathy: This refers to a specific branch of medicine based on certain laws of healing. Using the assumption that the body wants to be in balance, or in “homeostasis,” glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration can be treated in non-conventional ways. Sleep and Light Therapy: According to Dr. Kondrot, it’s important to sleep in complete darkness. There is a vast array of light therapy and color therapy that is beneficial for the eyes. Microcurrent Stimulation: This is a very important part of the practice. Microcurrent treatment is a technique that uses a very low current of electricity at a certain frequency to stimulate tissue and help heal or improve various vision problems. Specialized Therapies: This includes various alternative therapies such as Nutritional Intravenous therapies, Oxygen therapy and the use of a hyperbaric chamber. Stem Cell Therapy: Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to help repair and replace tissues anywhere in the body. Recently, stem cell therapy has come to the forefront with patients and practitioners alike, with regards to how this can be applied to the eyes. Studies are being done about its ability to treat macular degeneration, corneal disease and retinal disorders.

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HOSPICES OFFER DIFFERENT SERVICES? Core services, as required by Medicare, are similar among all hospice providers. Valuable "extras" offered by Pathways Hospice include a special recognition program honoring military veterans, art and music therapy, and a variety of services for those living wit h serious illness. U P COMI NG SUPPORT GRO UPS Newly Bereaved: Oct 7, 14, 21. 6-7:30 pm Living with Loss: Oct 28. 5:30-7:30pm

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Pathways Hospice Community Care for Northern Colorado

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VETERINARY

Research

EQUINE LIGAMENT RESEARCH

HE LP S HUM ANS

olorado is known for its athletes and its skiing. The injuries athletes suffer while skiing or engaging in other activities have led some of the premier medical professionals and organizations in the world to set up shop here. They serve Colorado’s active residents who are unfortunate enough to sustain injury, along with world-class athletes seeking cutting-edge treatments and leading researchers working to push current treatment boundaries.

BY BRAD SHANNON

Locally, Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies and Dr. Rocci Trumper are well-known for the work they do. In Vail, the world-renowned Steadman Clinic is the first choice of many professional athletes and Olympic competitors. But before these clinics put new treatments into practice on their human patients, leaders in veterinary medicine work hard to break new ground in treating equine athletes. That research has great potential to be refined and adapted for use on you and your neighbors and your favorite college and professional athletes. This translational research often happens behind the scenes, but the work done over the

past 34 years by Dr. Wayne McIlwraith, Colorado State University Distinguished Professor and founding director of CSU’s Orthopaedic Research Center (ORC), has gained him significant accolades during the last year. Dr. McIlwraith is known worldwide for his pioneering work on equine arthroscopic surgery and research in translational medicine that benefits horse and human health. His reflex, though, is to credit those around him for making the ORC and the groundbreaking work it does possible. “Much credit goes to my team,” he emphasizes, crediting graduate students, surgical residents and colleagues doing clinical and research work.

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Dr. Wayne McIlwraith, Colorado State University Distinguished Professor and Founding Director of CSU’s Orthopaedic Research Center He came to CSU in 1979 after earning his veterinary degree in his native New Zealand and doing residency at Purdue University. During his first 15 years as assistant professor in surgery, he primarily worked in the clinic, taught and did some research. As his research escalated, he developed and founded the university’s ORC, with the mission to investigate the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal disease and injury for the betterment of both animals and humans. At the center, Dr. McIlwraith and colleagues research ways to detect, prevent and treat musculoskeletal problems, especially arthritis and joint injury. Areas of study include the use of gene therapy for equine osteoarthritis and stem-cell therapy for joint injury and tendonitis. The center also treats top-level equine athletes, including race horses, cutting and reining horses, jumpers and dressage horses. Since its founding, the center has focused on clinical validation of new techniques, including developing equine arthroscopic surgery, which revolutionized the treatment of equine athletes. It then undertook research to resolve the limitations of that type of procedure, including secondary osteoarthritis and cartilage loss. Over the years, the center has developed new, more sophisticated techniques and treatments. In doing so, its work evolved into using horses as a model for human osteoarthritis. This is marked in particular by the progressive loss of articular cartilage. “The horse is a good model for human treatment,” notes Dr. McIlwraith. “The cartilage is the same thickness, and we work on the equivalent joint. We do well with bone, but cartilage is challenging.” As an approach to address those challenges, center staff began investigating biologic and regenerative therapies, which have translated to similar approaches in humans, along with treatments for cruciate ligament and meniscal tears. “The work we do here is important, as there are a lot of industry groups trying to find a better method for these repairs,” he notes. “Much of this work gravitates to horses, and the FDA has cited that as a preferred pre-clinical model.” He

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

Dr. McIlwraith’s research into equine injuries and surgery protocols often translates into better practices for human athletes and treating their injuries.

and his team have won grants from the National Institutes of Health to conduct research on the horse as a preclinical model for cartilage repair before moving on to apply those techniques in humans. This pioneering work has benefitted horse and humans, and brought recognition to Dr. McIlwraith and CSU. Last fall, Dr. McIlwraith received the Jacob Markowitz Award for outstanding contributions to medicine through the art, science and technology of experimental surgery. This honor has been given by the Academy of Surgical Research (ASR) since 1986. Its namesake changed the course of surgical research as chief of experimental surgery and a professor of physiology at the University of Toronto. Dr. McIlwraith earned the award for pioneering, developing and refining arthroscopic surgery in the horse and leading development of large-animal models for the surgical repair of cartilage defects and evaluation of articular cartilage repair. His research yielded new insights for advances in human orthopedic medicine, and he is the only equine surgeon among those who’ve received this award. In addition to receiving the award, he delivered a keynote address at the ASR annual meeting, “Arthroscopic Surgery in the Horse: Research

to Address Limitations for Repair in Horses and Humans,” which examined the evolution of arthroscopic surgery and development of equine models for surgical repair of cartilage defects. Cartilage repair is necessary to maintaining movement and performance in human and equine joints. This March, Dr. McIlwraith also received the Orthopaedic Research Society Marshall R. Urist, MD Award for excellent and sustained contributions to tissue regeneration research related to the musculoskeletal system, and for his role in educating and training the next generation of researchers. The Urist Award honors investigators who have made significant contributions over the course of their careers to research in tissue regeneration. Dr. McIlwraith is the first veterinarian orthopedist to receive the prestigious award, which has historically gone to doctors of human medicine. In addition to the recognition Dr. McIlwraith has gotten recently for the application of his research in human medicine, support from the equine world continues. CSU’s ORC was the recipient of a $6 million gift from the Malone Family Foundation. Leslie Malone, the wife of foundation founder John C. Malone, is active in the top levels of dressage.

Another significant part of the work McIlwraith and his team helped drive from a translational route was microfracture surgery, which has become the standard of care for articular cartilage in humans. This work was done in cooperation with the Steadman Clinic and its foundation, now called the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, along with NFL Charities. “We developed a relationship with Dr. Steadman, who developed the technique. He had done many clinical cases but was seeking scientific validation.” Dr. McIlwraith recounts. “We got together and starting working on it in horses and did various studies with this supplemental treatment.” That collaborative research effort showed that microfracture surgery provided more repair tissue, and what caused that. After that work was published in the human orthopedic literature, the CSU team moved on to research combining gene therapy and microfracture surgery, and how using bone marrow and skin cells show a significant improvement in the repair. “The next step,” he adds, “is investing lots of time and money to move this approach to be licensed for human treatment.” Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Loveland.

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Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2014

VETERINARY

Dental Health

KITTY CARE: DENTAL HEALTH 101 BY MICHELLE VENUS

hen was the last time you saw your cat brush her teeth? Never, right? That is why owners need to step up and take charge of Kitty’s dental care. It’s more important than you think—improper dental hygiene (or no dental hygiene at all) can lead to very serious health complications down the road. Here are some steps you can take to help Kitty’s mouth stay healthy and clean. Pay attention: “Kitty breath”—that mild and fishy scent is normal. A foul odor, however, is an indicator that Kitty may be struggling with oral problems and left untreated, they will only get worse. Watch for drooling. While many cats will drool when they are being petted, it is often related to tooth decay or gingivitis. Bleeding gums can occur, especially if the cat eats mostly dry food. But if bleeding accompanies other symptoms, it can be a precursor to other issues. Your vet is a dentist, too: Make sure your vet takes a peek at Kitty’s chompers. Yearly dental checkups are just as important for her as they are for you, so please don’t forget to include them during the examination. Dr.

Howard Robinson, DVM with Raintree Animal Hospital in Fort Collins, is a strong proponent of routine dental checks. “We look for loose or broken teeth, swollen gums and plaque and tartar buildup during dental exams,” he explains. “We also count the teeth to see if the cat has lost any; an adult cat has 30.” Start early: Get Kitty use to a dental care routine when she is young. It is much easier to get a kitten accustomed to a routine than it is for an older cat who may be resistant to your efforts, however well intentioned. With a finger cot or gauze, gently rub Kitty’s gums and teeth with feline toothpaste. Gums should be pink and healthy, not red and irritated. “Never use toothpaste made for humans,” warns Dr. Robinson. “It’s toxic for them. Toothpaste made specifically for cats has enzymes that work well to clean plaque and tartar. An added advantage is that they’re flavored with poultry or other cat-friendly flavors.” Once Kitty has gotten used to your finger, switch over to a soft bristled toothbrush. You can get one made for cats or you can try a baby toothbrush. The most important thing is to get Kitty accustomed to having her teeth brushed. Watch what goes into Kitty’s mouth: Switch it up for Kitty at mealtime. In addition

to feeding her a combination of wet and dry foods, try to include deboned raw meat to stimulate chewing, which helps to keep the bones strong. You might want to vary the meats you feed Kitty. Besides fish, she may enjoy meals of beef and rabbit. As far as tartar-control treats, they are good for helping to keep the teeth clean, but they are no substitution for regular brushing and checkups. “Nothing is more important than regular care and annual checkups,” states Dr. Robinson. “I cannot stress that enough.” Don’t wait until it is too late: Tooth decay and gum disease have been linked to heart, kidney and other serious chronic illnesses. “Bacteria from the mouth can enter the cat’s bloodstream and then enter other organs,” says Dr. Robinson. “We see this a lot with older cats.” Don’t wait until Kitty shows signs of distress to have her teeth examined. Many cats do not show obvious signs of discomfort until they’re in considerable pain. Preventive care, yearly checkups, and a good diet—plus appropriate treats—can ensure that Kitty stays happy, healthy and purring for a long, long time. Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

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