PROVIDING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS AND THE SURROUNDING AREA WITH HEALTHFUL INFORMATION
ISSUE 5 • Spring/Summer 2007
Weight Loss Success
BMI Time for an Eye Exam!
EAT to LOSE... SLOWLY Easy Ways to Get up & Move HELP FOR
Look what everyone is reading!
Sleepless in... THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT
Your JOB a P A I N ?
Arthritis-linked-to-Psoriasis Beata Majewski, M.D.
ARE
YOU
AT
RISK:
BROKEN BONES Leslie McCasland, M.D.
“My doctor told me that more than 70% of all illnesses can be avoided by exercise.
That’s Wellness,
and that’s for my family.” “I always thought of myself as active until my doctor told me otherwise. Now I get up early, get my exercise in, and now I’m able to get around better and am more flexible. The weight loss? Well, that’s just a bonus—and that’s for me.” —Yvonne Reeves
Being healthy is more than just looking healthy. Our personal approach to physical well-being is just one of the reasons we’re the best choice for getting—and maintaining—a workout routine that addresses your particular needs. Whether it’s weight-loss, muscle strength, cardio or any combination, our instructors will make you feel right at home in our gym even if you’ve never stepped foot in an athletic club. We’re so confident you’ll like our center—and the new you—that we’ll get you started with a session with a personal trainer at no charge! Call today for more information: 870-932-1898.
• Complete line of cardiovascular training equipment including treadmills, elliptical trainers, bikes, and stair steppers; most with personal TV’s—And ONLY here! • Full line of machine and free weights • Extensive free-weights area • Group exercise classes • Indoor running track • Heated swimming pool and sauna • Executive locker rooms • Personal trainers available • Healthy juice bar
www.neaclinicwellness.com
Located next to Cracker Barrel 2617 Phillips, Jonesboro
NEA Health magazine benefits the programs of
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation has a mission to help change lives through the programs and services it supports in Northeast Arkansas. The Foundation, through the generous gifts of our community, touches every community member and every corner of Northeast Arkansas.
Thanks to all of our advertisers! PUBLICATION OFFICE 1835 Grant Ave., Jonesboro, AR 72401 h_acebo@neaclinic.com www.neaclinic.com Holly Acebo, Editor/Executive Director NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation Director of Marketing NEA Clinic, NEA Medical Center Christy Appleton, Director NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation Kim Provost, Advertising Nicole Frakes, Graphic Design Karin Hill, Assistant Editor NEA Health is published bi-annually for the purpose of conveying health-related information for the well-being of residents of Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri. The information contained in NEA Health is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Please consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment and/or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines. Editorial, advertising and general business information can be obtained by phoning 870-9345101 or by writing in care of this publication to: PO Box 1960, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72403. You may also e-mail h_acebo@neaclinic.com and put “NEA Health” in the subject line. Copyright© 2007 NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording and any information storage retrieval system, without written permission from NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation.
On The Cover L
eslie McCasland, M.D. was raised in Jonesboro and attended Westside High School, and ASU for her undergraduate studies. She completed medical school and residency at University of Tennessee, Memphis and a rheumatology fellowship at Loyola University of Chicago. After three years in general internal medicine, Dr. McCasland started working in rheumatology, a field she found to have a lot of innovative treatments for chronic diseases. Her special interest is in osteoporosis. Dr. McCasland is married and has a five-year-old son.
B
eata Majewski, M.D. attended the Medical University of Lodz, Poland, followed by an internship in internal medicine at Berkshire Medical College in Massachusetts as well a residency there. She completed a fellowship in rheumatology at the Medical College of Georgia. A grandmother with rheumatoid arthritis was one factor that caused her to develop a special interest in that condition. Dr. Majewski’s husband is NEA Clinic plastic surgeon Tomasz Majewski, M.D., and the couple has two daughters.
Both Dr. Majewski and Dr. McCasland are involved in clinical research studies involving gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
1. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007 www.neacfoundation.org
CONTENTS
from the editor
20+
pages of advice from doctors and health professionals you know and trust. 4 BMI & Obesity 6 Time for an Eye Checkup?
- Dr. Margolis 8 Your Job a Pain in the Neck?
- Jeff Ramsey, PT 10 Glare & Your Eyes
H
ow do you define what healthy is? Is it being within your ideal weight? Able to get out of bed in the morning? Run a marathon? No hospital visits this year?
Oftentimes people associate health with being in shape (better yet, being within their weight requirements for their height). Your doctor will tell you that there is much more to being healthy. We hope this issue of NEA Health will get you on the road to good health. Proper nutrition and exercise should be the starting point of your journey, and your journey shouldn't end with losing five pounds or completing your first marathon. It should be a continuous journey that keeps you moving and keeps you energized to live life to its full extent. Even though I enjoy my trips to the Wellness Center, it's not always easy to fit it in. Between church activities, raising three children, working a full-time job and being involved with the community, I'm left with little time for the "extras." But when you are talking about your health and well-being, that "extra" should be top priority. If you don't make time to exercise, your health will be at risk. In our house, we make it a family affair to exercise. The result has been a happy and healthy marriage! The stresses of the day are left at the gym. It's sometimes the transition we need between work and home, and it also allows us to get re-energized for a night with the kids. Rather than being tired and sluggish from a long workday, we get the extra jolt we need to spend time as a family and be able to play with the kids or get to the ballpark on time! I encourage you to make it a priority in your house, too!
Thank you for reading this edition of NEA Health!
- Rusty Acebo, ABOC 11 Allergy Tips
- www.neahealth.com 11 Is it Colic?
- www.neahealth.com 14 Sleepless in the Middle of the
Night - Dr. Nichols 17 Eat to Lose ... Slowly 18 Orthopedic Lingo 101
- Dr. Brandt 20 Get Up & Move!
- Pamela Bowen 22 Sinusitis
- www.neahealth.com 24 Are You At Risk
Broken Bones - Osteoporosis - Dr. McCasland 25 Arthritis Linked To Psoriasis
- Dr. Majewski 28 It Won’t Heal
- Bryan Luster, PTA, CWS 30 Aging with Bess
- Dr. Maglothin 32 Weight Loss Success 37
Have a healthy and blessed day!
In Review NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation
2 From the Editor 35 Clinical Trials 46 Healthy Eating 36 List of Advertisers
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Joe Williams President
Steve McFerron Executive Vice President
At BancorpSouth, we’re focused on being right where our customers live and right where they are in their financial lives. We’re there, wherever life leads them, because we’re a strong, regional bank with the most advanced technologies, innovative services and responsive, dedicated people like Jonesboro lenders Joe Williams and Steve McFerron. Visit any of our locations where qualified bankers will help you get right where you want to be. Subject to credit approval. Bank deposits are FDIC insured. Insurance products are offered by BancorpSouth Insurance Services Inc. Investment products are offered by BancorpSouth Investment Services Inc. Member SIPC. Insurance and investment products are • Not a deposit • Not FDIC insured • Not insured by any federal government agency • Not guaranteed by the bank • May go down in value
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Obesity BMI
epidemic - cancer - kidney failure - blindness - numbness - stroke - premature d testing in schools has Many parents, however, have received the recently been a hot topic notice of their child’s predisposition to excess in the media. After a few weight with an open mind. They haven’t years of requiring students to undergo these ignored it and have taken the time to educate Body Mass Index tests, some are calling for an themselves about the problem. Up until end to them. Some opponents argue that the recently, there have been few if any programs to parents don’t understand the results and do help them address this problem. nothing with them. Others say the results are inaccurate and make relatively healthy children Obesity is an epidemic in the United States, no think they have a weight problem. Still others matter how you look at it. Currently, 16 percent of our children are considered to be argue that parents are overweight, with a BMI (Body Mass in control of their Obesity-related Index) in excess of 30. Worldwide, children’s health and diets, and that schools problems accounted for 155 million children are overweight or 7 percent of total obese. As Third World countries should not be involved. healthcare costs in 2001. have adopted Western lifestyles, the rates of obesity have tripled. The reasons for this relate to decreasing activity levels and
BMI
4. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
consumption of calorie-dense foods such as burgers, fries, milk shakes, doughnuts, etc. The concern for our children is that nearly one in three will be obese by the time they reach age 30. This will result in ever increasing complications associated with excess weight: diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and even cancer. Further, these medical problems will lead to other complications such as kidney failure, blindness, numbness, stroke and premature death.
death - diabetes - heart disease - high blood pressure - high cholesterol - arthritis Weight loss and lifestyle
To address the problem of obesity requires a comprehensive approach. Programs like Nutrisystem or other popular diets, while having some value, fail to incorporate the family into the process and don’t address the educational aspects of weight management. Weight loss and lifestyle choices go hand in hand. You cannot have one without the other.
respond to this problem in choices go hand in hand. That is why we are so excited an integrated fashion: a to offer this program to you You cannot have one place where parents can go and your children. In an effort without the other. when they’ve received a to eliminate the financial BMI letter from their child’s school. The barriers to participation, Center for Healthy Center for Healthy Children inside the NEA Children is offered free to the community. No Clinic Wellness Center in Jonesboro addresses child should have to face the problem of obesity in a way that is breaking new ground. obesity, and we are here to help the families of It recognizes that the solutions to the Northeast Arkansas. challenge of obesity require the participation of the family as a unit, not merely the child For more information on the Center for who suffers with it. The program includes Healthy Children, call 336-1760, or visit fitness activities, cooking classes, food www.neacfoundation.org. Applications for shopping management and psychological the program are available online. support through Families, Inc. The program takes children that have often never exercised and transforms them into confident young people who can manage their lifestyle choices both at home and at school.
Fortunately, NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation has developed a program to
NEA Clinic recognizes that prevention of illness is as important as treatment of disease.
The cost of medical care, already on the rise due to an aging population, will skyrocket. Obesity-related problems accounted for 7 percent of total healthcare costs in 2001. As the prevalence of obesity doubles in the coming years, the costs, no doubt, will double. Insurance costs continue to climb faster than the rate of inflation and can be felt by every employee, each time you scan your paycheck or visit the doctor’s office.
Your BMI (Body Mass Index) is a number that shows how your weight compares to your height (BMI = weight / height2). Children’s BMI percentile shows how their BMI compares to other kids same age and sex. - less than 5th percentile: Underweight - greater than 85th percentile: At risk of Overweight
- greater than 95th percentile: Overweight - between 5th and 85th percentile: Healthy Weight
Single Source, Total Health
NEA PremierCare includes:
• • • •
NEA Clinic NEA Medical Center The Surgical Hospital of Jonesboro Independent Physicians
To find out if your health plan is in-network, please call us at (870) 932-0023
Quality
Choice
Access
Value 5. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Time for an Eye Checkup?
V
isual impairment is one of the 10 most frequent causes of disability in America. Approximately 80 million people have some type of eye condition, representing one-third of the U.S. population. There are many sources of vision disturbance, including some that are reversible. For most eye conditions, early diagnosis and treatment can limit damage and disability. That is why regular eye exams throughout life are very important. Several studies have shown that refractive error is one of the most important causes of correctable vision impairment. In early childhood poor vision can lead to lazy eye or amblyopia. It may also be the source of poor academic performance. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends an eye exam before 2 years of age. This can help detect strabismus, astigmatism, hyperopia, and cataract. For young adults, blurred vision usually means it’s time for new glasses or contact lenses. Regular exams help maintain eye health and good vision. Now with advances in LASIK, permanent laser vision correction is an option for many people over age 18. With recent advances in technology, LASIK is safe and very precise. As we enter the fifth decade of life, eye exams become a regular routine. Many diseases of the eye increase dramatically as we age, so early diagnosis becomes essential. Anyone with diabetes requires a comprehensive eye exam soon after diagnosis. Forty percent of diabetics have some eye damage which can be limited by proper treatment. Macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataract also increase prevalence with age, so it is important to see a medical eye doctor to check for these. NEA Clinic Eye Center has friendly medical eye doctors that are happy to take care of your whole family. We are experts in medical and surgical treatment of the eye, and we take care of glasses and contact lenses, too. Please call 870-932-0485 to schedule your appointment today.
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: eye exam
6. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Matthew Margolis, D.O. NEA Clinic Eye Center - 870.932.0485
Location, Location, Location While most folks don’t plan for emergencies, we do. Expanding to more locations spread throughout Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri means Medic One is near by when you need us. Licensed paramedics, 24-hour dispatch, and pinpoint mapping software are just a few of the ways we’re thinking of you even before you call.
>
1000 E. Johnson
N 617 W. Nettleton 3606 E. Highland 3301 S. Caraway MISSOURI CAMPBELL, KENNETT, MALDEN, SENATH
870-972-0708 ARKANSAS BLYTHEVILLE, JONESBORO, MANILA, OSCEOLA, POCAHONTAS, WALNUT RIDGE
Visit www.medic-one.info for the location nearest you & remember dialing direct saves time! 7. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Daily Aches and Pains? GET BACK TO ENJOYING THE PAIN-FREE SIDE OF LIFE
H
ave you really ever stopped to think about how much stress you put on your body through the course of a day? Just think, you get out of bed in the morning after an average night’s sleep of six to seven hours – unless, of course, you are a shift worker, which is more like five hours, and then you’re off again. Get the kids ready for school, pack their lunches, drive across town to drop them off, and then speed back across town to get to work on time. Work until the whistle blows, speed across town to pick up the kids, drive home, cook supper, clean up the mess, pick up the house, get the kids ready for bed and then, FINALLY, you get a short rest break to watch “CSI” or “Heroes” before you lie down for your six to seven hours of sleep before you do it all again. Sound familiar? The Nationwide Insurance Company was correct when it released the commercial slogan “Life comes at you fast.”
in one position for hours while performing some form of repetitive motion with your hands. Maybe you have spent the last 15 years performing a job that requires you to perform repetitive lifting of objects. For some, you may be performing jobs that require repetitive twisting or bending motions in order to load a piece of machinery; and yet others may need to push or pull a dolly loaded with boxes up a flight of stairs multiple times per day. No matter what occupation you have chosen, one thing is for certain: Without the correct posturing and without the use of correct body mechanics, the stresses of your job will begin to cause you discomfort and your body will begin to break down. With the increased amount of time in the Even though we spend six to workplace, the time for seven hours sleeping, the ...the majority of your recreational activities has majority of your “awake” “awake” time will be steadily declined. If you time will be spent in the spent in the workplace. are anything like me, you workplace. Have you ever may find yourself living in stopped to think about how the past too often. Maybe much time you spend working? A study by you attempted to lift that 50the National Sleep Foundation concluded pound box off the garage that the average employed American will floor just to prove to your work 46 hours per week, with 38 percent of child that you’ve still got it. those completing the survey reporting that Maybe it’s attempting to play they worked more than 50 hours per week. in an adult soccer or baseball Just think: That is equal to somewhere league, only to find yourself around 2,400 to 2,600 hours per year that on the sidelines covered with you spend in your workplace. ice, wondering how you ever enjoyed that sport as a kid. Maybe for you, your 40 to 50 hours at work So, while lying on the couch, are spent sitting at a desk, or working on a hesitant to move due to the computer. Maybe you are working at a aches and pain, reality local factory spending your time standing presents itself, slaps you 8. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
across the face and you begin to wonder what happened. Your body just cannot do things like it used to. In our haste to scramble from place to place, to complete our job requirements, to tend to our children, we have in some way neglected to take care of ourselves. Stretching has become obsolete. We find ourselves sitting on the couch for hours to recover from a long day’s work, and we neglect the fact that we need to get up and move occasionally – and, heaven forbid, even exercise. We spend hours playing video games without even the slightest thought of the stress it places on our wrists and hands. Regardless of whether you are in the workforce, relaxing at home, or being a “weekend warrior” (completing your honey-do list), the stresses from repetitive motions can lead to inflammation and joint pain. So, what is a repetitive-motion injury? A repetitive-motion injury is a condition that occurs when tendons, muscles and nerves are placed under stress for a prolonged period of time. Repetitive-motion injuries are commonly referred to as an “over-use injury” and can affect virtually every individual. This injury may begin with minimal discomfort and may be accompanied with some pain and swelling.
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
YOUR SATISFACTION - MY SUCCESS
However, if the activities that have caused this injury are not properly managed, or modified, a repetitive-stress injury can lead to additional loss of joint motion and has the potential to tear or damage muscle and tendon fibers.
Jeff Ramsey, PT Outpatient Physical Therapy NEA Clinic – 870.336.1530
CLHMS
Deborah Allen, ABR Desk: 870-974-7370 Mobile: 870-926-0822 Toll Free: (800) 210-7138
Call For Your Private Tour! Member of
2102 Fowler Ave. For Neighborhood Information
DeborahAllen.Homelog.com View Available Homes at
www.totalhometour.com
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So what do you do about it? In the early phases, applying ice and protecting the painful joint are recommended. In this phase a simple brace may limit the irritated joint from performing a specific activity just enough to reduce the pain. In dealing with a repetitive Some of the more common repetitive-motion motion injury, being proactive and acting injuries are carpal tunnel syndrome (which immediately will minimize both the amount affects the wrist and hand), bursitis of discomfort and loss of function. Some of (inflammation of a bursa), tendonitis you will attempt to “work it out,” but a (inflammation of a tendon) as well as “repetitive” injury without modification may muscular tension in the neck and shoulders only make your condition worse. If you have from abnormal postures. Carpal tunnel noticed pain and you are having difficulty syndrome is commonly found in individuals performing normal daily activities, both who spend a lot of time typing on computers at home and at work, you may need to speak or using hand tools that require a tight grip to your primary care physician or your health (carpenters are commonly affected due to the care professional at work to begin the healing repetitive motion and required grip while process. Medical intervention with the swinging the hammer). Bursitis assistance of physical and tendonitis typically occur in Medical intervention therapy can help to the wrists, elbows, shoulder and with the assistance of reduce pain and to regain hips, and are common in functional use of the individuals who perform assembly physical therapy can help affected joint. Your to reduce pain and to physical therapist will line work. Painters often have pain in the shoulder due to the regain functional use of also be able to assist you repetitive stress of pushing the by discussing ergonomics the affected joint. roller overhead, which can lead to (the study of ways that irritation. Neck and shoulder you can adapt your work tension is an increasing problem, especially station or home environment to fit you since computers have become more and more better), which will lead to reduced stress on a necessity. But don’t think for a minute that your muscles and joints. Specific exercises can all repetitive-stress injuries occur at work. be guided through a work-conditioning Common hobbies such as sewing, gardening, program to prepare you for a safe return to the playing a musical instrument and playing workplace. video games are directly related to repetitive injuries. Sporting activities such a tennis, Life is too important and our time too baseball and basketball can also lead to joint valuable to be hampered by the daily aches inflammation from the repetitive motions and pains, especially when there are simple associated with each. modifications that can be made to reduce the stress. Don’t wait until the pain gets you down before you seek help. Take a stand, be proactive, and get back to enjoying the pain-free side of life.
9. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
T
he sun's damaging UV rays contribute to many eye health and vision disorders. You need to wear sunglasses not only to protect your eyes from UV rays, but also to protect them from harmful glare. In sunglasses you should always consider clarity, prism, and refraction in addition to ultra violetprotection. Clarity is compromised with cheaper sunglasses as images blur as distances increase. Also, in cheaper sunglasses light is bent in different directions, causing a prismatic effect making your brain work harder putting the images together. Polarized lenses enhance the most important function of sunwear by improving visual acuity. Polarized lenses eliminate glare created by light bouncing off of highly reflective surfaces such as metal, glass, water, sand or snow. For years, boaters and fishermen have used polarized sunglasses to reduce reflected glare from the water surrounding them. The popularity of these type sunglasses has soared now that many others who spend time outdoors have discovered the benefits of polarized lenses. Besides boaters, outdoor enthusiasts who benefit the most from polarized sunglasses include skiers, bikers, golfers, and runners who enjoy a clearer view along with the elimination of glare. There is no other circumstance where glare is more damaging than while driving a car. Besides the normal everyday glare, drivers must endure increased glare formed by the dashboard reflected on the windshield as well as glare reflecting off of the highway. This glare from the windshield reduces a
10. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
driver's visual acuity. Polarized sunglasses are an excellent choice and reduce glare drastically in these situations.
How Do Polarized Lenses Work? From the moment of reflection, light becomes polarized and forms visual noise or blinding glare that interferes with the real image. The only way to eliminate this glare is to place a polarized lens in its path. Light reflected from surfaces like a flat road or smooth water is generally horizontally polarized. This horizontally polarized light is blocked by the vertically oriented polarizers in the lenses, resulting in a reduction in annoying and sometimes dangerous glare.
Polarized lenses come in a wide variety of colors and are available in single vision and multifocal lenses, including progressive no-lines. Whether you spend your time boating, waterskiing, golfing, mountain biking, driving or running, polarized lenses are an excellent choice in sunglasses. Rusty Acebo, ABOC Optician LensMasters
P
ollen is the cause of most allergies, and with spring comes pollen. Unfortunately, a mild winter or warm or spring may lead to a severe allergy season. The following steps can help you avoid pollens. These tips can help you even if you don't know what type of pollen you are allergic to. • Stay inside when pollen levels are high. Watch local weather reports for pollen counts in your area. In general, the pollen counts are lowest just after sunrise. They begin to increase and are usually highest at midday through the afternoon. They begin to decrease around sunset.
• Keep windows and doors closed, both during the day and at night. Use air conditioning to help lower the amount of pollen that gets inside your house. Do not use a fan with an open window, as this can bring more pollen into your home.
• Take a shower and change clothing after you work or play outside. • Use a vented dryer to dry your clothes; do not dry them outside on a clothesline. • Take your vacation during the peak of the pollen season in a place where the plants you are allergic to don't grow.
• Mow your grass often. If possible, have a family member or friend do it for you. If this is not possible, use antihistamines before you mow, and wear a pollen or dust mask while you mow. • Avoid bringing pollen into your home when you go outdoors.
• Wash your hands. Everything you touch outside is covered in pollen. Frequently washing your hands will reduce pollen in your home and in your eyes. For allergy testing call 870.934.3484
www.neahealth.com
THE MOST EXPERIENCED NEUROSURGICAL TEAM IS ALSO THE ONLY NEUROSURGICAL TEAM IN THIS AREA.
All are Board Certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and continue to pursue contemporary continuing medical education through organizations such as the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and the North American Spine Society.
870-935-NEAC www.neaclinic.com
Dr. Robert Abraham is proud to welcome Dr. Rebecca Tuck, Dr. Kenneth Tonymon and Dr. Jeffrey Kornblum to NEA Clinic Neurosurgical Associates. Known in our medical community for years, they bring their decades of experience to local patients suffering from back, spine and brain disorders treatable by surgery. They’re also partners for your health—for life and can stay right with you, from diagnosis to treatment to rehabilitation—and recovery. All right here, and without having to travel to Memphis or away from home.
It’s not just our promise, it’s our practice. 11. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Move&
Is it Colic?
with
B
abies cry. That’s their job. It’s the way they tell us what they want.
A baby slowly spends more time crying until at 6 weeks old, usually he cries between 1 to 5 hours out of every 24. After that the baby starts to cry less as he finds other ways of “saying” what he wants.
New Class Ava ilable!
Groove
Baby
Group exercise class specifically for
Mother & Child.
Total body workout - steps, balls, weights, exercise bands & floor exercises.
All babies cry when they are hungry, wet, tired, too warm, too cold, lonely, or in pain. It helps to try and figure out why your baby is crying, going through a mental checklist of what might be wrong. If you respond to the baby’s other signals (e.g., whimpering, wiggling) before he starts crying, your baby will usually cry less.
Classes at 11:00 am M/W/F Sessions begin every 4 weeks... Please call or come by for schedule. Ages: six weeks to 18 months welcome.
Tell your friends!
Normal crying includes: • Hungry cries that often start with a whimper and become louder and longer. Hungry babies eagerly eat when offered the breast or a bottle. • Upset cries that are usually loud and start suddenly. • Pain cries that start with a strong, high-pitched wail followed by loud crying. Babies usually have other signs of pain, such as wrinkling their foreheads, grunting, clenching fists, or not moving.
2617 Phillips Dr., Jonesboro, AR (870) 932-1898
www.neaclinicwellness.com
Colic is not a disease. It’s crying in a healthy baby that takes place more often, lasts longer, and is more intense than normal crying. Ten to 30 percent of babies have colic. It’s as common in boys as girls and breast-fed as bottle-fed babies. It seems to be a result of a combination of things: the baby’s sensitive temperament, the environment, and the baby’s immature nervous system. Colicky babies usually follow the “rule of 3”: they cry for more than 3 hours a day at least 3 days a week for at least 3 weeks in a row. A colicky baby cries very loudly; he may clench his fists and stiffen his stomach. Once he starts crying, you can’t usually soothe him, and the crying may last no matter what you try to comfort him. Colic usually peaks when the baby is 6 to 8 week old and gradually goes away. For most babies it is almost always gone by the end of the fourth month. Try this step-by-step approach to parental survival when your baby is wailing and you feel like crying, too:
We’ll see you sooner or later. It’s your choice.
W
e make it a point to see all new patients within seven days of calling for an appointment. So
• Stay calm. Don’t take crying personally; your baby isn’t mad at you. • Don’t shake your baby. Shaking or spanking can injure your baby. Put your baby in the crib and go to another room if you feel out of control. • Calm your baby with a walk outside in the stroller or a car ride. Putting the baby seat near the hum of a clothes dryer or dishwasher soothes some babies. • Get help from your partner, family, or friends to get a break from the baby. For more information on how to deal with colic and when to call a health professional about your baby’s crying, check the Healthwise® Knowledgebase at www.neahealth.com. © Copyright 2007, Healthwise, Incorporated All rights reserved.
12. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
unless you just want to take your time, we’re pretty much ready to see you when you need to see us.
Charles L. Barker, M.D., Ph.D., FACOG
We’re conveniently located just off the Highway 63 Bypass at the Stadium Drive exit next to NEA Medical Center
Mark C. Stripling, M.D., FACOG Charles Dunn, M.D., FACOG Norbert Delacey, M.D., FACOG
(and just up the street from Turtle Creek Mall).
Michael Hong, M.D., FACOG Lorna M. Layton, M.D., FACOG
So whether you’re just needing a gynecologist for your annual checkup or expecting a baby, we know that time is the last thing you need to waste. Unless, of course, you just want to.
3104 Apache Dr.
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 972-8788
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M edicine A ssistance Pr o g r a m
For giving opportunities, contact us at 870-934-5101 www.neacfoundation.org 13. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
It is 1:00 a.m. and John, a 30-year-old attorney, is lying in his comfortable bed, eyes wide open, and unable to get his mind off the big event that will take place in the morning. He has been unable to get to sleep since his usual 11:00 p.m. bedtime. The big event is his first big jury trial concerning a personal injury claim for his client. He keeps going over the strategy he will employ and cannot get it off his mind. He begins to worry about how he will ever be able to perform if he cannot get some sleep soon. This is not usual for him, as he is usually a very good sleeper and can only remember one other time in his life this has happened. He was 25 years old and was to take his state bar exam the following day. When he awakens the next day he feels like he had a very non-refreshing night of sleep.
14. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: insomnia insomnia, engage in behaviors that actually end up perpetuating hat is John’s problem? He is suffering an episode of the insomnia and having it appear to develop a “life of its acute transient insomnia. He, along with an own.” The bedroom, bedtime and the night no longer estimated 30 million other Americans, is invite sleep but rather provoke anxiety and worry with experiencing a random sleepless night that is These principles a fixation on “making” oneself sleep. When it precipitated by a stress or change in his life. This type will help the becomes chronic (lasting months to years), it is time of insomnia, also known as adjustment insomnia, is situation to be more to deal with the problem before it becomes a major fortunately a self-limiting event that is almost always conducive to the disturbance to the quality of life. eliminated when the stress is relieved or one adapts to sleep process. the life change. Just about all of us at one time in our Insomnia can exist as a symptom of or as a consequence lives have or will experience such an event. However, of another condition; then, it is considered secondary not all insomnia is this straight forward or goes away that insomnia. It can occur in patients with other sleep disorders, quickly. medical conditions, psychiatric illnesses or substance-abuse problems. In these situations it is important to recognize and Insomnia is defined by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s include treatment of the underlying condition when treatment plans International Classification of Sleep Disorders as “a repeated for the insomnia are developed. Like any medical condition, difficulty with sleep initiation, duration, consolidation, or quality insomnia is best managed after a careful medical examination that occurs despite adequate time and opportunity for sleep and because there are multiple possibilities for its cause and different results in some type of daytime impairment.” Individuals with methods of treatment that could be recommended. insomnia usually complain about difficulty in getting to sleep or awakening many times during sleep. Less often the complaint is So what are possible treatment options if you are found to have expressed as having had a poor quality or non-restorative sleep. chronic insomnia? Option No. 1 would be to do nothing and Daytime complaints consist of fatigue, tiredness, sleepiness, continue your current path with the irritability or other mood disturbance, knowledge that the insomnia is not and may involve functional areas. likely to be a signal of some serious Problems may consist of an inability to Sleep hygiene principles include: disease. The upside is no time or money concentrate or focus on the tasks at spent on therapy, but the downside is it hand, a sense of mental cloudiness, is very unlikely to go away on its own. 1) Sleeping only as much as you need to memory impairment, and periods of Option No. 2 includes several types of feel well and function the next day; “mini-blackout” or “disconnect” from sleeping pills or hypnotics that can help the immediate environment. Overall 2) Get up at the same time each day, 7 promote a nearly normal type of sleep. there is a feeling of being unable to days a week; The most commonly prescribed types perform to the usual or expected 3) Exercise regularly (but not within 3 are non-benzodiazepine hypnotics standards. To diagnose true insomnia, hours of bedtime); (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata and both the nighttime and daytime features Rozerem). The upside here is the 4) Make sure the bedroom is free of light should be present. When these relatively immediate relief – a 30 to 50 and noise; symptoms persist for months, the percent improvement in the sleep – and insomnia is classified as chronic. 5) Regulate temperature to what is comwith sustained gains demonstrated from fortable to you during the night; 3 to 6 months to up to one year in Behavioral psychologists utilize a model 6) Eat regular meals, and do not go to bed clinical studies. The downside is that of chronic insomnia suggested by Dr. hungry or overstuffed; these medications offer no cure, and, Arthur Spielman to evaluate their when stopped, the problems have a high 7) Avoid excessive liquid in the evening; patients. The model suggests there are recurrence rate. Option No. 3 is to use predisposing factors, precipitating 8) Cut down or off all caffeine products; what are called sedating anti-depressant factors and perpetuating factors to 9) Avoid alcohol, especially in the evening; medications. Upside potential is the chronic insomnia. A patient may have a offer of some immediate relief, and the 10) Cut out smoking in the evening prior family history of insomnia, be an gains can be stable for months to years to bed, and preferably altogether; excessive worrier or a “light sleeper” and and no withdrawal symptoms. The be more susceptible to development of 11) Don’t take your problems to bed; downside is there is less effect on sleep chronic insomnia. Initial episodes of 12) Do not try to fall asleep; if unsuccessonset than the hypnotics and the gains insomnia may be provoked by things ful, get up out of bed and wait until achieved may be less. There is also the like job changes, stressed relationships, sleepy to return; potential of more unpleasant side effects or the birth of a child. Many individuals and the possibility of any long-term 13) Put the clock under the bed or turn it then, in an effort to “deal” with the
W
so you can’t see it; and 14) Avoid naps.
15. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer
benefits after the medication is stopped is unknown. longer periods of wakefulness away from the bedroom Option No. 4 is a therapy known as cognitive rather than spending the time in bed with behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). This thoughts of not being able to sleep. Another involves several different components and cornerstone of this therapy is to set consistent Stimulus begins with an effort to educate the patient bedtime and wake times while avoiding sleep about normal sleep and normal sleep at other times. The most restorative sleep control and sleep mechanisms. It helps for patients to comes from consolidated periods of sleep, restriction often understand how the body sleeps and how and naps only reduce the drive to sleep work together. they can maximize behavior that positively during the selected period. affects their sleep. The therapy is conducted over 5 to 8 office visits designed to confirm the Successful implementation of such therapeutic diagnosis, introduce the elements of therapy and principles has been shown to reduce the time to get to monitor progress of their application. The therapist and sleep and the time awake after asleep by 50 percent. There are patient work as a team with the therapist as educator and also benefits seen in the sleep efficiency (the percent of time advisor while the patient is the implementer of the plan and asleep of the total time in bed.) Upside of this therapy is it recorder of the data that marks progress. Each program is offers the possibility of cure. The downside is the effects can tailored to the patient’s needs, and not all patients are suitable take several weeks to achieve, and it requires significant effort for this approach. Some common components of such on the part of the patient and skill on the side of the therapy include emphasis of good sleep hygiene measures, clinician. sleep stimulus control and sleep restriction therapy. Other measures that may be added are relaxation training and Perhaps the most important message to leave you with cognitive therapy. is that insomnia is not an incurable situation. There can be clear benefits Stimulus control and sleep restriction often work together. of improving the sleep when a The underlying concept is that one cannot make oneself structured treatment plan is put in sleep, but the failure to sleep can build negative sleep stimuli place and implemented by the patient with the bedroom, bedtime and the night. Basic principles under the guidance and assistance of a are that the bedroom has only two purposes, for sleep and qualified therapist. intimacy. Any other activity needs to be done elsewhere. Don’t go to bed unless sleepy. If that does not occur within 15 to 20 minutes, then leave and go somewhere else in the David R. Nichols, M.D. house until the drive to sleep returns. This would be repeated Sleep Medicine as often as needed during the night. Although this sounds NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150 counterintuitive, the object is to build the drive to sleep from
311 S. Church St., Suite E Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-336-2140 • 870-761-KIDS
16. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Slow Down to Lose Weight he Internet is full to the brim with ideas for losing weight. There are tried-and-true tips that seem to make sense. And there are the fads of the day, be it the South Beach Diet, Atkins, or the latest miracle pill claiming to reduce your need to eat.
T
Here are some tips to slow down while you eat:
But here is one tip that everyone can do, at least sometimes: Slow down.
A If
Eating slowly accomplishes a number of things in our body. Adopting this habit could mean a gradual loss of weight, and it doesn’t even involve cutting out the foods you enjoy (not that it’s an excuse to “over eat.”)
A Drink water throughout the meal, after A Be sure to eat with someone else, and get every bite, if possible. Not only does the water help fill you up, all those intervals of drinking will make it take longer for you to eat. you are right-handed, use your left hand to hold the fork while you eat. This not only will be an amusing challenge (and possibly the evening’s entertainment, if you have guests), it will force you to take your time.
talkative. If you are alone, you may be more likely to eat, eat, eat without a break. With someone else there, you are more likely to talk during your meal. If you’re having dinner at home with your family, make a point of sitting together and conversing with them, not simply watching TV during your meal.
Here’s how it works. According to experts, it takes the brain about 20 minutes to realize that the stomach is full. When we scarf down a big meal in 10 minutes, the brain and stomach have not yet communicated to each other that it’s time to stop. So, we think there is still room for seconds, then dessert. But in reality, your stomach could be plenty full and you just don’t know it yet! One expert claims that slowing down could cut down 100 calories per day, adding up to a pound of lost weight in one month. That’s certainly not the miracle pill or quick fix some of us wish for, but this is one of the most natural methods for eating properly. No strange side effects, no yo-yo dieting – just about anyone can do it!
17. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
any orthopedic terms are used frequently in normal conversations as well as on the numerous hospital-based dramas on television. Quite a few people do not totally understand these terms. I will attempt to explain some of the major orthopedic terms and conditions in everyday language. At least this may help you understand what is going on the next time you watch “Grey’s Anatomy” or “ER.”
M
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common source of hand numbness and pain. It is more common in women than men and affects up to 10 percent of the population. The median nerve travels from the forearm into your hand through a tunnel in your wrist. The bottom and sides of this tunnel are formed by wrist bones, and the top of the tunnel is covered by a strong band of connective tissue called a ligament. Symptoms are caused by increased pressure on the median nerve entering the hand through the confined space of the carpal tunnel. If symptoms continue to bother you, electrical testing of the nerve function is often performed to help confirm the diagnosis and clarify the best treatment option in your case. Symptoms usually begin gradually without a specific injury. Numbness, tingling and pain in the hand are common. You may experience an electric-like shocking feeling. The thumb side of the hand is usually most involved. Symptoms at night are common and may awaken you from sleep. During the day, symptoms frequently occur while holding a phone, reading or driving. Treatment options include: changing activities, medications, bracing, and, at times, surgery. Anti-inflammatory medicines: These are medicines that, as their name implies, prevent inflammation by blocking the body’s production of prostaglandin (a potent inflammatory agent). They are often called NSAIDS, which stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen, known as Advil or Motrin, is a common over-the-counter NSAID. Aleve or naproxen is another common one. Tylenol or acetaminophen is not an anti-inflammatory drug. It blocks pain receptors only. Joint replacement: An arthritic or damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial component called a prosthesis.
18. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
The bone ends of a joint are covered with a smooth layer called cartilage. Normal cartilage allows nearly frictionless and pain-free movement. However, when the cartilage is damaged or diseased by arthritis, joints become stiff and painful. For example, in an arthritic knee the damaged ends of the bones and cartilage are replaced with metal and plastic surfaces that are shaped to restore knee movement and function. In an arthritic hip, the damaged ball (the upper end of the large leg bone, the femur) is replaced by a metal ball attached to a metal stem fitted into the femur, and a plastic socket is implanted into the pelvis, replacing the damaged socket. Although hip and knee replacements are the most common, joint replacement can be performed on other joints, including the ankle, foot, shoulder, elbow and fingers. The materials used in a total joint replacement are designed to enable the joint to move just like your normal joint. The prosthesis is generally composed of two parts: a metal piece that fits closely into a matching sturdy plastic piece. Several metals are used, including stainless steel, alloys of cobalt and chrome, and titanium. The plastic material is durable and wear resistant (polyethylene). A plastic bone cement may be used to anchor the prosthesis into the bone. Joint replacements also can be implanted without cement when the prosthesis and the bone are designed to fit and lock together directly. Arthritis: The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. It is seen in many people as they age, although it may begin when they are younger as a result of injury or overuse. It is often more painful in weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hip and spine than in the wrist, elbow and shoulder joints. All joints may be more affected if they are used extensively in work or sports, or if they have been damaged from fractures or other injuries. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage covering the bone ends gradually wears away. In many cases, bone growths called “spurs” can develop in osteoarthritic joints. The joint inflammation causes pain and swelling. Continued use of the joint produces pain. Arthroscopic surgery: Arthroscopy, not orthoscopy, is a surgical procedure orthopedic surgeons use to visualize, diagnose and treat problems inside a joint. The word arthroscopy comes from two Greek words, “arthro” (joint) and “skopein” (to look). The term literally means “to look within the joint.” In an arthroscopic examination, an orthopedic surgeon makes a small incision in the patient’s skin and then inserts pencil-sized instruments that contain a small lens and lighting
system to magnify and illuminate the structures inside the joint. Light is transmitted through fiber optics to the end of the arthroscope that is inserted into the joint. By attaching the arthroscope to a miniature television camera, the surgeon is able to see the interior of the joint through this very small incision rather than a large incision needed for surgery. Rotator cuff: Often called “rotator cup,” the proper terminology is “rotator cuff.” The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and their tendons. These combine to form a “cuff” over the upper end of the arm (head of the humerus). The four muscles – supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis and teres minor – originate from the “wing bone”(scapula), and together form a single tendon unit. The rotator cuff helps to lift and rotate the arm and to stabilize the ball of the shoulder within the joint. Rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability in the adult population.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is another modern diagnostic imaging technique that produces cross-sectional images of your body. Unlike CT scans, MRI works without radiation. The MRI tool uses magnetic fields and a sophisticated computer to take high-resolution pictures of your bones and soft tissues. Tell your doctor if you have implants, metal clips or other metal objects in your body before you undergo an MRI scan. You lie as motionless as possible on a table that slides into the tube-shaped MRI scanner. The MRI creates a magnetic field around you, then pulses radio waves to the area of your body to be pictured. The radio waves cause your tissues to resonate. A computer records the rate at which your body’s various parts (tendons, ligaments, nerves, etc.) give off these vibrations, and translates the data into a detailed, twodimensional picture. You won’t feel any pain while undergoing an MRI, but the machine may be noisy.
X-ray, CT scan, MRI – What’s the difference? X-rays (radiographs) are the most common and widely available diagnostic imaging technique. Even if you also need more sophisticated tests, you will probably get an X-ray first. The part of your body being pictured is positioned between the X-ray machine and photographic film. You have to hold still while the machine briefly sends electromagnetic waves (radiation) through your body, exposing the film to reflect your internal structure. The level of radiation exposure from Xrays is not harmful, but your doctor will take special precautions if you are pregnant. The images are ready quickly, but they may not show as much detail as an image produced using newer, more powerful techniques. An X-ray or radiograph shows basically the bones and their alignment. It is used mostly by orthopedists to look for fractures and evaluate arthritis.
An MRI may help your doctor to diagnose your torn knee ligaments and cartilage, torn rotator cuffs, herniated disks, hip and pelvic problems and other problems. An MRI may take 30 to 90 minutes.
A CT scan (computed tomography) is a modern imaging tool that combines X-rays with computer technology to produce a more detailed, cross-sectional image of your body. A CT scan lets your doctor see the size, shape and position of structures that are deep inside your body, such as organs, tissues or tumors. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before undergoing a CT scan. You lie as motionless as possible on a table that slides into the center of the cylinder-like CT scanner. The process is painless. An X-ray tube slowly rotates around you, taking many pictures from all directions. A computer combines the images to produce a clear, two-dimensional view on a television screen.
After establishing a licensed practice, an orthopedic surgeon demonstrates mastery of orthopedic knowledge by passing both oral and written examinations given by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
What exactly is a board certified orthopedic surgeon? An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor with extensive training in the proper diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. An orthopedic surgeon completes up to 14 years of formal education. • Four years of study in a college or university • Four years of study in medical school • Five years of study in orthopedic residency at a major medical center
Hopefully, this gives you a little more information about these topics. Certainly, your healthcare provider, as well as myself, are available to evaluate any of these or other musculoskeletal issues.
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: orthopedic ◆ www.orthoinfo.aaos.org
Jason Brandt, M.D. Orthopedic Surgery NEA Clinic – 870.935.8388
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© 2007 Regions Morgan Keegan Trust. Investment services are provided through Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc., a subsidiary of Regions Financial Corporation and a member NYSE and SIPC. Trust services are provided through Regions Morgan Keegan Trust, a trade name for the Trust Division of Regions Bank. Securities and insurance products sold through Morgan Keegan and Regions Morgan Keegan Trust are not FDIC–insured, not guaranteed by Regions Bank and may lose value.
19. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Get Up & Move! I
t is common knowledge that we should incorporate exercise and proper nutrition into our daily lives. However, based on national surveys, we know that most Americans do not do that. The reasons for exercising far outweigh the excuses for not getting started. Preventing heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure as well as managing stress and lowering our mortality rate are some of the benefits that should motivate us. Gee, let me think. … Do I have time to include an exercise program in my daily activities? Ever wonder why some people are able to squeeze in 30 minutes of exercise, and yet for others, it seems to be the last thought on their mind? Why are only 50 percent of Americans leading a moderately active lifestyle? Furthermore, why are 25 percent not getting any physical activity at all? The reasons most frequently given for not exercising on a daily basis are: I’m too tired. Too busy. Not enough time. I’ve tried everything, but nothing works!
Try this ... • take the stairs • park far away from the mall entrance • walk during lunch
Try this: Incorporate ideas like this into your normal day’s activity – take the stairs, park far away from the mall entrance, walk during lunch and still have time to eat. You’ve probably heard of them before, but have you ever tried to do even one of them? Is a healthy lifestyle not more important than watching “American Idol?” Looks like we just found your exercise time! Don’t you think if you wanted to find 30 minutes a day to walk, ride a bike, or do something to improve our health, you could do it? As Dr. Phil says, “You cannot change what you do not acknowledge.” You may be thinking: “You just don’t understand.” Trust me, I do. I’ve been in that situation. I was overweight, unhappy, discouraged and had come to the conclusion that it was just how it was always going to be. I was not happy with the way I felt or the way I 20. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
looked. All that has changed for me, and now I help people reach that same goal. Diets, magic pills, overnight success – trust me, there is no magical way to get there. There are so many silly diets aimed at people who are looking for that quick fix. They appeal to your desire to change and indicate that it will take no effort. But it has been proven not to work. There is no quick fix; however, it really isn’t as hard as you might think. “Calories in” versus “calories out” is a simple, successful formula. Weight training is also important. The more muscle we carry, the more efficiently our body works. I have been a personal trainer for 14 years. Because I started where some of you are now, I assure you that it’s not really that hard! Follow these guidelines for a great place to start. • Make time to exercise. • Make it fun – find a partner. • Choose different activities. Group classes or start your own group with friends. • Be creative. Turn daily activities into exercise, do relay races with your kids. • Involve the family – work together as a team. • Set your fitness goals; however, be realistic and set short-term goals. • Reward yourself for even small accomplishments. Please, take just a few minutes and think about your life and your health. Make a change today that will last forever. Once you have made exercise a part of your daily life routine, you will find not only rewards, but also pleasures. Pamela Bowen NEA Clinic Wellness Center – 870.932.1898 www.neaclinicwellness.com
“Calories in” versus “calories out” is a simple, successful formula.
Charity Bike Run
VIN to Win 2007 Harley Dyna Street Bob!
August 18, 2007 to ride
BIKER CLASSIC ‘07
NEA Clinic - Woodsprings Clinic 2205 W. Parker Road, Jonesboro, Arkansas Registration 8 to 11:00 am 1st Bike Out 10:00 am ASU Convocation Center - Noon
of Jonesboro
Live Music • Silent Auction Bike Games • Bike Show Vendors • Prizes Information & Registration Forms:
Greg 870-930-8076 Kevin 870-930-8052 Event Hotline: 870-934-5131
fund raiser to benefit JPD D.A.R.E. and NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation
www.neacfoundation.org
21. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Sinusitis Y
ou just had a stuffy cold, and now your face hurts around your forehead and cheeks. Is it sinusitis?
Sinuses are hollow spaces around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. Bacteria or viruses infect the tissues—mucous membranes—that line the sinuses and nose. The infection can come on suddenly and not last long (acute sinusitis). Or it can develop into an infection that lasts for a long time (chronic sinusitis) and is tough to treat. Sinus symptoms are different from cold symptoms. With sinusitis, there’s pain and pressure in the face along with a stuffy or runny nose. The pain comes from inflamed, swollen sinuses that can’t drain. Where the pain is depends on which sinuses are affected. Other common symptoms may include headache, yellow or green discharge from the nose or down the back of the throat, bad breath, fever, tooth pain, and a cough that brings up mucus. How do you know if it’s a cold or sinusitis? Cold symptoms, including a stuffy nose, start to get better after 5 to 7 days. If you’ve had a cold that comes back or gets worse after 7 days, you probably have sinusitis.
Home treatment may help with your symptoms. • Drink plenty of fluids—6 to 10 glasses of water or juice per day—to keep your mucus thin. • Use moist heat—a hot towel or gel pack—on your face for 5 to 10 minutes, several times a day. • Get in the shower or hang your head over a sink of hot water and breathe in the warm steam. You can also try a humidifier that increases the moisture in the air. • Buy saline nose drops or make your own solution. Use them to keep your nose open and wash out mucus and bacteria. Make a home solution by mixing 1 teaspoon (5 g) of table salt in 1 pint (470 ml) of water and adding a pinch of baking soda. Use a bulb syringe to gently squirt the liquid into your nose or snuff it up from the palm of your hand into one nostril at a time. • Use over-the-counter pain medicine and decongestants to help with your symptoms. Contact your health professional if your symptoms don’t get better after 2 days of home treatment or things are generally going from bad to worse. For information on how to prevent sinusitis, check the Healthwise® Knowledgebase at www.neahealth.com. © Copyright 2007, Healthwise, Incorporated All rights reserved.
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Chick-fil-A is a Healthy Option While Dining Out
A
s the American public is becoming more aware of the health implications of proper eating habits, the restaurant industry has responded to the change in customer demand. No longer does dining out have to mean compromising your personal commitment to healthy eating. More and more restaurants are offering a variety of low-fat, low-calorie menu options. Chick-fil-A® is one such restaurant chain that has strived to maintain a variety of healthy options to satisfy all customer dietary needs, and nutrition has always played an integral role in menu planning. Restaurant guests will find nutritious alternatives throughout Chick-fil-A’s menu. Chick-fil-A starts with fresh ingredients, such as hand-breaded chicken fillets and fresh-squeezed lemonade, to create a menu that fits nicely into a healthy diet with balanced menu choices. With options such as the Chick-fil-A® Chargrilled Chicken
Sandwich, Fruit Cup and a variety of salads and Cool Wraps®, the chain offers a number of items that are low in fat and calories, and a majority of items are free of trans fats. Chick-fil-A’s healthy alternatives extend into its children’s menu as well. The chain’s Kid’s Meals also offer healthy choices for parents to select for their children. For example, the four-piece Chick-fil-A® Nugget meal, with a fruit cup and small Chick-fil-A® Diet Lemonade, has a total of six fat grams and less than 160 calories. “Providing a healthy, nutritious product that meets consumers’ dietary needs has always driven menu decisions at Chick-fil-A,” said David Kesten, franchise Operator at the Chick-fil-A restaurant at The Mall at Turtle Creek in Jonesboro, AR. “Eating healthy does not mean having to give up your favorite foods. Through moderation, balanced choices and exercise, you can achieve a healthy lifestyle.”
Our customers are important to us. That’s why Chick-fil-A takes special care and pride in what we serve! You’ll find many delicious menu items to help you begin or maintain a healthy lifestyle.
23. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Cover Story
Diagnosis & Treatment of Osteoporosis O
steoporosis has recently become an important healthcare issue for both women and men, and the likelihood of the onset of this disease increases with age. It is a systemic skeletal disease that is characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue. Diminishing bone tissue increases fracture susceptibility, and the consequences of such fractures are significant – pain, deformity, and reduction in pulmonary capacity – and can lead to significant morbidity. Presently, 8 million women and 2 million men in the United States have osteoporosis, and over 30 million Americans have osteopenia. Furthermore, each year there are roughly 1.5 million osteoporotic fractures, and the most common places that these fractures occur are in the vertebrae, wrist and hip. The annual economic costs of these fractures have been estimated to be roughly $35 billion. Vertebral fractures can be definitively diagnosed with an X-ray, bone scan, CT scan, and MRI scan. Possible treatments for an acute fracture include pain control, bracing, and a procedure called vertebroplasty, which includes the use of a balloon to “inflate” the collapsed vertebrae. Additionally, if a patient suffers a hip fracture, then the likelihood of death within the following year increases by 24 percent and there is a 20-percent chance that he or she will need long-term nursing-home care. Typically, a 15-minute, painless procedure known as a Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptomity (DXA scan) can diagnose osteoporosis. This lowdose radiation procedure (about 1/50 of a chest X-ray) measures the bone density at the lumbar spine and proximal femur. A postmenopausal female’s diagnosis is based on a T-score, which is the product of a comparison of her bone density (in standard deviations) to that of a younger (control) female. If the T-score is -1.0 or greater, then the patient is considered to have normal bone density. However, if the
continued page 26
D Leslie D. McCasland, M.D. Rheumatology – NEA Clinic
24. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Psoriasis & Arthritis R
ed, scaly skin can sometimes be a symptom of psoriasis. But did you know that people affected by psoriasis may be prone to developing a unique form of arthritis?
Psoriasis is a chronic disease of the skin that usually develops in childhood or early teenage years. Psoriatic arthritis is a joint disease that affects a small portion of patients with psoriasis and generally affects young adults. Only five to eight percent of patients with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. There is strong familial predisposition to psoriasis. Also, arthritis secondary to psoriasis tends to run in families. Both conditions are products of the immune system’s attack on its own self – skin in regard to psoriasis, and joints in psoriatic arthritis. In the majority of cases, psoriasis precedes joint disease. But in some, the onset of arthritis can be simultaneous with skin disease, or arthritis can present itself without skin changes. Psoriasis in patients with psoriatic arthritis can be severe, but it does not have to be. It can be just a scaly scalp problem, or a little redness around the belly button. The area of skin involved with psoriasis does not predict the severity of arthritis. For some, the only skin presentation of psoriatic arthritis is pitting of the nail beds, small punctate lesions on the nails. Some patients can develop inflammation of the insertion site of the tendon into the bone, and enthesitis, or eye inflammation (iritis or conjunctivitis). Arthritis secondary to psoriasis presents in different ways. For some people it can involve less than four joints, large and small, in an asymmetric fashion – joints appear enlarged in a fusiform pattern typical for psoriatic arthritis. Other patients will
D
continued page 26 Beata Majewski, M.D. Rheumatology – NEA Clinic
25. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Normal Bone
Diagnosis & Treatment of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis
Ccontinued
Ccontinued score is between -1.0 and -2.5, then the patient is considered to be osteopenic, and if the T score is -2.5 or lower, then the patient will be diagnosed as osteoporotic. The International Society Densitometrists recommends patients undergo a measurement. Specifically, following to take such a test:
Psoriasis & Arthritis
of Clinical that certain bone-density it urges the
• all women 65 or older • all men 70 or older • anyone with a fragility fracture (defined as a fracture with minimal or no trauma) • anyone on steroids, anticonvulsants, or other medications known to lower bone density • anyone who is considering treatment for osteoporosis • anyone diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism • to monitor the progress of ongoing therapy for osteoporosis. Treatment of osteoporosis should include adequate dosages of calcium and vitamin D. A daily dose of 1,200 milligrams of calcium and 400-800 IU of vitamin D are recommended. Recently, vitamin-D deficiency has been commonly found, and at-risk patients are being screened for such a deficiency. Finally, adequate weight-bearing exercise and decrease or cessation of caffeine and tobacco are also recommended as treatment for osteoporosis.
Bisphophonates (e.g., Fosamax, Actonel, & Boniva) are approved for the treatment and prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis and osteoporosis in men; however, Fosamax and Actonel are, in addition, used to treat glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. Additionally, Forteo, a two-year daily subcutaneous injection, is approved for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis and osteoporosis in men. Additional treatment for a postmenopausal woman’s osteoporosis includes: estrogens; Raloxifene (Evista), which is a selective estrogen receptor modulator; and Miacalcin, a nasal spray that may also be used to relieve acute vertebral-fracture pain. Generally speaking, bisphosphonates are the most widely used agents for osteoporosis. The most common side effect of these drugs is esophageal irritation. However, there has recently been some publicity about the connection of these agents and an unusual condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is rare, and 95 percent of cases were seen in patients that received intravenous, not oral, bisphosphonates. More information about this condition can be obtained from your primary-care physician. Additional information about osteoporosis can be found at the National Osteoporosis Foundation (www.nof.org).
There are also a variety of FDA-approved treatments for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in both men and women. Of course, the choice of which of these agents to use is a decision to be made by the doctor and patient.
Leslie D. McCasland, M.D. Rheumatology NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150
develop symmetric small joints of the hands that appear indistinguishable from rheumatoid arthritis. Another group of patients will develop disease of the spine that may present as neck or back pain and stiffness with decreased range of motion. This presentation may also involve peripheral joint inflammation. Psoriatic arthritis is a severe and rapidly destructive arthritis, but treatment is now readily available. In the last five years, breakthrough developments have allowed for use of biologic medications in treatment of inflammatory arthritis including psoriatic arthritis. This in conjunction with standard therapy (i.e. methotrexate) allows for excellent control of signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. The goal of the treatment is improvement of quality of life, improvement of function, and preservation of joint structure. Treatment of psoriatic arthritis with these types of medications clears skin disease. If you experience psoriasis and morning stiffness, prolonged swelling of joints and joint pain, you may have psoriatic arthritis. Please ask your doctor to refer you to a rheumatologist for a consultation.
Beata Majewski, M.D. Rheumatology NEA Clinic – 870.935.4150
rheumatology terminology: Rheumatologist – internal medicine specialist with subspecialty in treatment of arthritic conditions and muscle disease Arthritis – condition involving joints with primary insult being inflammation, trauma, infection, or malignancy to the joint 26. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Enthesitis – inflammation of the insertion of the tendon to the bone Sacroilitis – inflammation of the sacroiliac joints Ankylosis – process of fusion of two bones
DOC+FINDER 870.935.NEAC FAMILY PRACTICE Jonesboro J. Timothy Dow, M.D. Douglas L. Maglothin, M.D. Joe McGrath, M.D. James Murrey, M.D. Windover Clinic & Urgent Care 1111 Windover, Jonesboro (870) 935-5432 Michael E. Crawley, M.D. Michael E. Tedder, M.D. Arnold E. Gilliam, M.D. Stadium Clinic & Urgent Care 3003 Apache, Jonesboro (870) 931-8800 Craig A. McDaniel, M.D. Troy A. Vines, M.D. W. Scott Hoke, M.D. Randy Carlton, M.D. Nathan Turney, M.D. Woodsprings Clinic & Urgent Care 2205 W. Parker, Jonesboro (870) 933-9250 Tim Shown, D.O. Melissa Yawn, M.D. Jeffery Barber, D.O. Hilltop Clinic & Urgent Care 4901 E. Johnson, Jonesboro (870) 932-8222
ANESTHESIOLOGY
HOSPITALIST
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
Alfonso Aquino, M.D. Sheila Stinson, M.D. Oksana Redko, M.D. 3024 Stadium, Jonesboro (870) 972-7390
Robert B. White, M.D. Brock F. Harris, M.D. 3024 Stadium, Jonesboro (870) 897-8462
Henry Stroope, M.D. Jason Brandt, M.D. 3100 Apache, Suite A, Jonesboro (870) 935-8388
CARDIOLOGY
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Anthony T. White, M.D. Michael L. Isaacson, M.D. Robert D. Taylor, M.D. Eumar T. Tagupa, M.D. D.V. Patel, M.D. Manny Papadakis, M.D. Margaret Cooper, A.P.N. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
Ray H. Hall, Jr., M.D. Stephen O. Woodruff, M.D. Ryszarda Hejmej, M.D. Kristy Wilson, A.P.N. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
OTOLARYNGOLOGY (ENT)
CARDIOVASCULAR & THORACIC SURGERY James A. Ameika, M.D. Deborah Fairchild, A.P.N 3100 Apache, Suite B4, Jonesboro (870) 972-8030 Michael Raborn, M.D. 3100 Apache, Suite B1, Jonesboro (870) 219-7685 Reginald Barnes, M.D. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
NEPHROLOGY Michael G. Mackey, M.D. Angie Fowler, A.P.N. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150 Dialysis Center 3005 Middlefield, Jonesboro (870) 934-5705
NEUROLOGY
DERMATOLOGY James Towry, D.O. 3100 Apache, Suite B3 Jonesboro (870) 934-3530
EMERGENCY MEDICINE Brewer Rhodes, M.D. Michael Tomlinson, M.D. 3024 Stadium, Jonesboro (870) 972-7251
ENDOCRINOLOGY
Osceola Jerry R. Biggerstaff, M.D. Debbie Wilhite, A.P.N. 616 W. Keiser, Osceola (870) 563-5888
GASTROENTEROLOGY Michael D. Hightower, M.D. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
Lake City Kristi Statler, M.D. 208 Cobean, Lake City (870) 237-4100
GENERAL SURGERY K. Bruce Jones, M.D. Russell D. Degges, M.D. John A. Johnson, III, M.D. James Cunningham, M.D. 800 S. Church, Suite 104, Jonesboro (870) 932-4875
Cherokee Village Brad Bibb, M.D. 3 Iroquois, Cherokee Village (870) 856-2862 Opening Summer 2007 Paragould Wade Falwell, M.D. Kasey Holder, M.D. 4700 Hwy. 412 West, Paragould
HEMATOLOGY ONCOLOGY Ronald J. Blachly, M.D. D. Allen Nixon, Jr., M.D. Carroll D. Scroggin, Jr., M.D. Stacia Gallion, A.P.N. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
Kenneth Chan, D.O. Bing Behrens, M.D. Yuanyuan Long, M.D. 3100 Apache, Suite A, Jonesboro (870) 935-8388
PAIN MANAGEMENT Raymond Greaser, M.D. 3005 Apache, Jonesboro (870) 933-7471
PHYSICAL THERAPY Jeff Ramsey, P.T. Terry Womble, P.T. 1007 Windover, Suite B Jonesboro (870) 336-1530
PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY W. Tomasz Majewski, M.D. 3100 Apache, Suite B3 Jonesboro (870) 934-5600
NEUROSURGERY
PULMONOLOGY
Robert Abraham, M.D. 3100 Apache, Suite A Jonesboro (870) 935-8388
William Hubbard, M.D. Meredith Walker, M.D. Patrick Savage, M.D. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
Kenneth Tonymon, M.D. Rebecca Barrett-Tuck, M.D. Jeffrey Kornblum, M.D. 1118 Windover, Jonesboro (870) 972-1112
Kevin D. Ganong, M.D. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150 Diabetes Center Bilinda Norman, R.N.P. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
Trumann Alison Richardson, M.D. Nathan Turney, M.D. Trumann Clinic 305 W. Main, Trumann (870) 483-6131
Blytheville Joseph Kulpeksa, M.D. 526 Chickasawba, Blytheville (870) 762-3331
Bryan Lansford, M.D. Linda Farris, A.P.N. 3100 Apache, Suite B2, Jonesboro (870) 934-3484 Hearing Center Amy Stein, Au.D., CCC-A 3100 Apache, Suite B2, Jonesboro (870) 934-3484
OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Charles L. Barker, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.O.G. Mark C. Stripling, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Charles C. Dunn, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Norbert Delacey, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Michael Hong, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Lorna Layton, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. 3104 Apache, Jonesboro (870) 972-8788
OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE 2205 W. Parker, Jonesboro (870) 910-6024
OPHTHALMOLOGY Joseph George, M.D. Matthew Margolis, D.O. James Cullins, O.D. 416 E. Washington, Suite B Jonesboro (870) 932-0485
RADIOLOGY Jeffrey S. Mullen, M.D. 3100 Apache, Jonesboro (870) 934-3533 John K. Phillips, M.D. Gregory Lewis, M.D. 3024 Stadium, Jonesboro (870) 972-7000
RHEUMATOLOGY Beata Majewski, M.D. Leslie McCasland, M.D. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
SLEEP MEDICINE David Nichols, M.D. 311 E. Matthews, Jonesboro (870) 935-4150
WELLNESS CENTER 2617 Phillips, Jonesboro (870) 932-1898
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Stadium Clinic (870) 931-8800
Hilltop Clinic (870) 934-3539
Woodsprings Clinic (870) 910-0012
Windover Clinic (870) 935-9585
Visit our web site at: www.neaclinic.com
Late Night Clinic (870) 910-6040
Nursing: Are You Man Enough?
I
f you are one of the more than five million Americans suffering from a chronic or non-healing wound, the NEA Medical Center Wound Healing Clinic may be the solution you are seeking. Non-healing or chronic wounds can be a source of debilitating pain and disability. The NEA Medical Center Wound Healing Clinic is designed to assist individuals with difficult wound healing problems. Successful treatment requires a highly specialized and closely coordinated team of professionals. Utilizing the expertise of internists, vascular surgeons, general surgeons, plastic/reconstructive surgeons, podiatrists, and certified wound specialists, the NEA Medical Center Wound Healing Clinic promotes healing and prevents infection and re-injury. Patty Crail, RPT, CWS, and Bryan Luster, LPTA, CWS, are presently the only two certified Wound Specialists (CWS) in the Northeast Arkansas region. With a combined 16 years experience in wound healing, you can be assured that you are receiving the highest quality of care, as both physical therapists have undergone a vigorous certification process including a national certification test and yearly continuing education on the latest wound healing methods.
Nursing Radiologic Sciences Clinical Laboratory Sciences Physical Therapy Communications Disorders Social Work
Sure You Are! Call us Today! College of Nursing and Health Professions
870-972-3112
P.O. Box 910 State University, AR 72467-0910
www.astate.edu 28. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
The NEA Medical Center Wound Healing Clinic treats nonhealing wounds resulting from: diabetic foot ulcers, venous stasis ulcers, wounds caused by circulatory problems, insect bites, pressure sores, burns, and wounds resulting from postop incisional breakdown. After a comprehensive evaluation by a panel of medical specialists, an individualized treatment plan is determined. Among the therapies offered are: wound debridment, specialized dressings, compression, whirlpool, artificial skin grafting, application of growth factors, vacuum assisted closure, and fitting for corrective shoes. Over the past 12 months the NEA Medical Center Wound Healing Clinic has treated more than 300 individuals with a 91-percent healing rate in an average of 42 days. Those 9 percent that were not healed required surgical interventions or did not complete therapy. These same wounds had previously resisted treatment for an average of 3 months. Our clients report 98 percent overall satisfaction with our services. For further information, contact Al Brodell, RPT, Director of Physical Therapy at 870-972-7387 or visit our website at www.neamedicalcenter.com. For more information on Certified Wound Specialists, visit their national website at www.aawm.org. Brian Luster LPTA, CWS NEA Medical Center Wound Clinic Certified Wound Specialist
Every blade of grass, each leaf, each separate floret and petal, is an inscription speaking of hope. Richard Jefferies
29. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Call for the next community screening in Northeast Arkansas
30. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Bringing Clinical Research to Northeast Arkansas NEA Clinic and Research Solutions, a nationally recognized research organization, work together to conduct clinical research studies for people in Northeast Arkansas. By participating in a clinical research study, participants take an active role in advancing medical science and fighting the diseases that affect Americans of all ages.
In turn, study participants may receive:
✔ Free tests and study medications ✔ An opportunity to learn more about a medical condition
✔ Financial compensation for time and travel
For more information on study opportunities, please call us at 870-268-8431 (toll free 1-877-45-study) or visit our websites: www.neaclinic.com or www.researchsolutionscorp.com It’s easy to join a clinical research study at NEA Clinic. Partnering to conduct research studies covering a broad range of therapeutic areas
“I couldn’t have been treated any better.” STROKE SURVIVOR BROOKS CRAVENS TRIUMPHS WITH HEALTHSOUTH At 43, Brooks Cravens never imagined he’d be the target of a stroke so early in life. But, one morning before work, that’s exactly what happened, causing him to lose his balance and control of his left side. Following a week in the hospital, Cravens was discharged to HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Jonesboro, a Stroke Center of Excellence. He underwent extensive rehabilitation, helping him to make a speedy recovery, returning home after only two weeks of therapy. Since then, Cravens has completed an intense few months in the HealthSouth Outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapy Center in Jonesboro and has returned back to work and family activities. “I couldn’t have been treated any better,” Cravens said. Through his remarkable recovery, it’s clear to see why HealthSouth is one of the nation’s leaders in rehabilitative healthcare.
1201 Fleming Avenue • Jonesboro, AR 72401 870 932-0440 ©2007:HealthSouth:98613
31. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Weight Loss Success FIT @ FIFTY
W
hen NEA Clinic oncologist Carroll Scroggin, M.D. turned 50 in January 2006, he decided it was time for a new lifestyle. He also decided that it would involve permanent changes in eating and exercise habits, and that he would do all this alongside his wife, Ruth. The Scroggins had been married since 1991. Neither one had ever really worried about their weight, as they both had fairly slim builds. But over the years, despite regular tennis matches, the couple slowly gained pounds. Because they had never followed a strict diet or made a point of doing any extra exercising, the weight had crept up on them without either of them realizing it. But 2006 was going to be different. It was going to be a start of a healthier life, a longer life, a more fulfilling life. The only thing standing in the way was a little willpower and some stereotypes about fitness clubs.
a personalized plan tailored to her needs made exercise possible. “I was using every excuse in the book, but they just blasted through all that and said, ‘We’re going to find something that you can do,’” she said. For Ruth, that meant mostly riding the stationary bikes, which kept weight off her knees, and lifting weights three times a week. In the beginning, Pam asked the Scroggins to keep a food diary and record every single thing they ate. She offered them some simple rules to keep portions the right size, and for the first two months they measured and weighed everything to make sure they were on track. And the efforts paid off.
no more excuses
“He literally almost dragged me in there,” said Ruth about her husband’s idea to join the NEA Clinic Wellness Center. “I was in a foul mood; I did not want to go. I just could never see myself going to a gym and being a ‘gym person.’ … Plus, I was in terrible shape and I knew it was going to be painful.” Ruth had gained about 60 pounds since 1991, and the extra weight had created some unpleasant physical conditions, including a torn Achilles tendon, osteoarthritis in both knees and a back injury. When the Scroggins started out at the Wellness Center in February 2006, Ruth still had a few months of rehab for her injuries. She didn’t think there would be any way she would be able to complete or endure any effective exercises. But thanks to the cooperation between physical therapist Keith Thompson and personal trainer Pam Bowen,
32. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
“The first 20 pounds came off like that,” said Ruth. In the meantime, Ruth has lost 52 pounds total, and she plans to lose another 18 to get back down to the size she was before 1991. During this interview, she had on a pair of pants that she had worn the same time a year ago – she could have fit two people in there. Now, she needs to go shopping for some smaller clothes to wear this summer.
“The first 20 pounds came off like that,” said Ruth.
Dr. Scroggin’s results were similar, although weight loss was a slightly less significant factor. He did lose 25 to 30 pounds during the last year, but his main focus has been eating
OV E R
80 P O U N D S L O S T
healthier, improving his physical condition and making sure he was giving his cardiovascular system the exercise it needed to stay in top condition. “We realized that we had to make a change in our lifestyle because of our age, and we wanted to get in better shape to help us avoid chronic illnesses as we got older,” said Dr. Scroggin, whose tennis matches were leaving him very tired and sore as he approached his 50th birthday. Now, after a year of regular workouts of weight lifting, Group Power exercise classes, swimming and aerobic workouts on the elliptical machines, he feels a significant difference. “I feel much better, I have more energy, I enjoy tennis more,” he
said. “I don’t get nearly as tired, and also I feel better at the end of the day. I sleep better.” For Dr. Scroggin, going through the process with someone else was a big motivation. The group exercise classes also helped, as he could identify with other people who had similar struggles and goals. In the group setting, everyone in the class is a motivation to everyone else, he said. The Scroggins both say they are grateful for the opportunities and helpfulness they found at the NEA Clinic Wellness Center. They also encourage anyone desiring to be healthier or lose weight to go for it, with this advice in mind: It might be a slow process, but changing your habits on a permanent basis – a true change of lifestyle – will pay off in the long run. Set realistic goals, and try to do it with friends. Also know that you can fit exercise into your schedule if you really want to. “My excuse for years and years was that I was too busy, and I realized that that excuse was just me being lazy and that you can fit it in if you really want to,” said Dr. Scroggin. “I’m motivated to keep the weight off now, and that’s why I keep doing it.”
“We realized that we had to make a change in our lifestyle because of our age, and we wanted to get in better shape to help us avoid chronic illnesses as we got older,” said Dr. Scroggin.
For more information about the NEA Clinic Wellness Center or see how a personal trainer can help you get on the right path, call 932-1898 or visit www.neaclinicwellness.com.
33. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
I
have an old dog named Bess. Actually, she belongs to my wife, Deb. Bess is a 13-year-old Boston Terrier. Apparently, this is considered fairly old for a Boston. She is blind except for just partial vision in the left eye. Fortunately, a couple of years ago Deb convinced me that Bess needed cataract surgery on that eye. Had it not been for that timely surgery she would now be totally blind. By the way, dog cataract surgery costs more than human cataract surgery! She is also nearly deaf. She must have one ear that is better than the other, because she has a problem locating the direction of a sound. (I’m sure there is a medical term for that.) Invariably, when called by name or whistle, she will go the opposite direction. As you might imagine, this creates some interesting and sometimes humorous situations. She still has a very acute sense of smell. She uses this highly 1 developed sense to identify and find people. It is not unusual for her to walk into a room with her nose high, sniffing the air, to see or smell for who might be 2 there. She is now a little chubbier than she used to be and has developed these tumorous lumps over her body. These are benign lipomas, the largest of which 3 on her front left chest wall is the size of a lemon. We often refer to it as her uni-breast.
4
If you met Bess for the first time, you might consider her to be a pitiful old dog. You might even question 5 the quality of her existence. But to us, her family, she is loved and honored. She is still a source of pleasure, company and even entertainment. She enjoys a good game of tug-of-war with a stuffed toy. She enjoys a walk around the block, even though she no longer sees the curb. She loves a good dog biscuit, when it passes the sniff test. Bess always ends up in our bed at night, but sometimes falls off the edge trying to find her way down. Caring for Bess as she has grown old is not without certain difficulties, especially for my wife. I must admit, that even as a physician, I am not a very good caregiver. After all, I am a man. Bess takes a larger dose of thyroid medicine than most humans. She requires eye drops twice a day. She has a very sensitive stomach, subject to reflux, regurgitation and, unfortunately, a lot a flatus. She is occasionally incontinent. Bess gets disoriented easily, which means that she has to be watched closely. Sometimes she will get stuck in a closet or a corner and can’t seem to find her way out. In spite of these challenges, Bess does not seem to feel sorry for herself. She doesn’t seem to have much regret or sadness about
getting old. When she stumbles or falls, she just seems to shake it off and keeps on going. She still returns our affection with a stumpy tail wag and dog licks as usual. Bess has had a good life. She has been a blessing to her family and we will be saddened to let her go someday. But, we would never want to prolong a painful or miserable existence. I wish that all of us had the support system in place and could age as well as Bess. Obviously, every family situation is different. Bess and Deb have taught me several lessons about aging and caregiving.
What seems pitiful to some may be respectable and lovable to others. Given a chance, people (and dogs) can adapt to tremendous life challenges. A sense of humor for both patients and caregivers is of utmost importance. Maybe the best way to remain independent is to accept a little help from others. Respect is a two-way street. If you want it, you must be willing to give it.
Growing old is a struggle, like so many phases of our lives. Not always bad, as if to be dreaded like a disease. Maybe Solomon said it best. “There is a time to weep and mourn, but also a time to laugh and dance. There is a time to embrace and hold on, but there is also a time to let go. These are all seasons under heaven.”
Douglas Maglothin, M.D. Family Practice – Windover Clinic NEA Clinic – 870.935.5432
◆ www.neahealth.com keyword: aging 34. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
It’s easy to join a clinical research study! What is a clinical research study? New drugs arrive at doctors’ offices and pharmacies everyday. But how do they get there? Who makes it all possible? A clinical research study is carefully designed and supervised by physicians and other research professionals, where patients receive investigational treatments that have not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Whether it’s a prescription drug or over-thecounter remedy, all medications are rigorously tested through clinical studies prior to public use. Studies are conducted in a wide range of medical areas, from chronic ailments to lifestyle discomforts and for a number of reasons including a new drug therapy for an existing condition, new form of an already approved medication, the treatment of a different disease with an alreadyapproved medication or to give patients access to newly approved drugs and treatments.
ensuring that your rights as a subject are fully protected and you are not exposed to unnecessary risk. Before you agree to enroll in a clinical research study, the physician or nurse will outline the benefits and risks involved in the study. It’s important to remember that you have the right to leave a study at any time and for any reason.
Research Solutions & NEA Clinic Research Solutions and NEA Clinic have been conducting clinical research studies in the Northeast Arkansas since 2001. Presently, we are enrolling participants for the following studies:
Why should I participate? People participate in clinical studies for different reasons. Some people feel the need to help advance medical science by participating in a research study, while others are looking for new medicines that might help them. Others participate because they don’t have access to medical insurance to cover their health care and research subjects are usually compensated for their time and travel. Whatever the reason, participating in a study can be a rewarding personal experience.
Asthma and type 2 diabetes Community acquired pneumonia COPD and type 2 diabetes Diabetic neuropathy Genital herpes High blood pressure High cholesterol Migraine headaches Pink eye Rheumatoid arthritis Sinusitis Type 2 diabetes Pink eye Women’s health issues
Additional NEA Clinic Oncology Trials Breast Cancer Cancer - unknown primary Colorectal Cancer Gastrointestinal Genitourinary Gynecologic Head and Neck Leukemia Lung Lymphoma Myeloma
What about my safety? Each and every study must be reviewed by an independent committee. This committee, known as an institutional review board, is responsible for
If you’re interested in participating in our clinical research studies, just ask your NEA Clinic physician. Or call us at 870-268-8431. It’s easy to join a clinical research study! researchsolutionscorp.com
Long drive making you ILL? SICK of the large house payment? Feeling any DISCOMFORT over neighbors?
1st Realty
Is your square footage INADEQUATE? Utility bills HEMORRHAGING your checking account? TIRED of that outdated houseplan? SUFFERING from too many kids and not enough rooms? Rental payments causing you INSOMNIA?
THESE HOUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS CAN BE CURED! Call Steve Hackman • Executive Broker • 530-0826
35. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
ADVERTISERS ASU - College of Nursing ................................pg 28 870.972.3112, www.astate.edu
NEA Clinic Eye Center ....................................pg 36 870.932.0485, www.neaclinic.com
Bancorp South. ....................................................pg 3 888.797.7711 Toll Free, www.bancorpsouth.com
NEA Clinic Neurosurgical Associates..............pg 11 870.935.NEAC, www.neaclinic.com
Chick-fil-A ........................................................pg 23 870.910.6611
NEA Clinic Wellness Center ......inside cover, pg 12 870.932.1898, www.neaclinicwellness.com
Cornerstone Insurance Group ................back cover 866.934.9601, www.cstone-group.com
NEA Clinic Women’s Clinic ............................pg 12 870.972.8788, www.neaclinic.com
Deborah Allen, ABR - Remax ............................pg 9 870.974.7370, wwwDeborahAllen.Homelog.com
NEA Clinic Doc+Finder....................................pg 27 870.935.NEAC, www.neaclinic.com
DNW Outdoors..................................................pg 22 870.972.5827
NEAHealth.com ................................................pg 21 www.neahealth.com
HealthSouth ......................................................pg 31 870.932.0440
NEA PremierCare ..............................................pg 5 870.932.0023, www.neamedicalcenter.com
Heritage Bank....................................................pg 13 870.802.2344, www.heritagebankark.com
Prudential 1st Realty - Steve Hackman ..........pg 35 870-530-0826
Lamp Outlet ......................................................pg 33 Highway 63 – Bono
Regions Morgan Keegan ..................................pg 19 800.445.4903
LensMasters ......................................................pg 10 870.972.1818, www.rxlensmasters.com
Research Solutions ............................................pg 31 870.268.8431, www.neaclinic.com
Medic One ............................................................pg 7 870.972.0708
Surgical Hospital of Jonesboro ..........................pg 3 870.336.1100, www.tshj.com
Monkey Business ..............................................pg 21 Highway 63 – Bono
Swank ..................................................................pg 7 870.336.1620
NEA Clinic Doc+Finder....................................pg 27 870.935.NEAC, www.neaclinic.com
Wilcoxson’s Kids Place ....................................pg 16 870.336.2140, 870.761.KIDS
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ................pg 13 870.935.5101, www.neacfoundation.org
36. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
IN
REVIEW
www.neacfoundation.org • 870-934-5101 37. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
s the new director of NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation, I feel very fortunate to have joined such a wonderful organization that is so involved and passionate about providing healthcare and wellness opportunities to our community. I have lived in Northeast Arkansas all my life – growing up in Marked Tree. I attended Arkansas State University where I met my husband of 35 years, Bob Appleton. We have two grown children, Steve Appleton and Stacy Appleton Mach. We are blessed to have two grandchildren, Jack and Avery Appleton.
A
I believe in a sentiment quoted by the author Leo Buscaglia: “Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.” I have spent the past 18 years working in the healthcare field – the past eight were spent with a foundation. I have learned in that time that philanthropy, and working with volunteers, is very meaningful. Working for a cause that helps people is very fulfilling. That is why I am so pleased to now work for the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation. The programs that are provided to the people of Northeast Arkansas free of charge are truly incredible. Founded in 2001, the Charitable Foundation was established to improve the lives of the people of Northeast Arkansas. Through the Foundation, money is raised to underwrite the costs of the programs so that those patients and others who need the services will receive them without the need to pay. Without the support of corporations, small businesses and private contributions, our Foundation could not exist. Philanthropy by definition means “charitable giving.” We all make choices about where to give our time and our donations. We look at the values and successes of the causes we find of interest, and determine whether we will support them. We want our contributions to make a difference in the lives of others. That is why we are so pleased to be able to say that 100 percent of the money raised by our Charitable Foundation stays in our community. All of it goes to fund our four programs – Medicine Assistance Program, HopeCircle, Center for Healthy Children, and our new Wellness Works program. When you make a contribution to one of our events, our memorial/honorarium program, or to one of the individual programs, you are making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross was an author and expert in the field of death and dying. During my years in Hospice I was privileged to meet her. She often spoke of light as a source of love, a source of hope, and a source of healing. The following quote of hers is to me the essence of what it means to help others. I’m so grateful to be working with the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation. People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, But when the darkness sets in, Their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within. Christy Appleton Director NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation 38. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
2006 Memorials Adam Harrington Richard & Kimberly Blair
Kathryn Jorgenson Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling
Albert Kopert Richard & Kimberly Blair
Louie Gibbs Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling
Alva Miller Woodsprings Clinic Staff
Martha Laird Wall Peggy Stripling
Betty Garmroth Charlotte Faulkner
Mary Wade Shirley Millsap
Betty Grace Snellgrove Richard & Kimberly Blair
Micah Woodall Leslie D. McCasland, MD
Betty Nell Gwaltney Brenda Wiseman Randy & Barbara Nichols Richard & Adrienne Rhodes
Mike Clark Connie Faulkner
Bob Jorgenson Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling
Opal Cornish Jim Boswell
Bud Weinstock Angie Fowler
Opal Earnhart Paula Earnhart
Chad Kail Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling
Patsy Lacy Richard & Kimberly Blair
Charles Watson Edward Watson
Randy Toombs Shirley Millsap
Fern Walters Woodsprings Clinic Staff
Ratha Davis Smith Tara Moore
Gary Grace Tommy or Barbara Rankin
Ray Townsend Miscellaneous
Gene Easton Staff of St. Mark’s School
Robert Blakeney Leslie D. McCasland, MD
Inez & Homer Hudson Sharon & Evan Lindquist
Robert Frederick Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling
Jean Juer Colleen Campbell Fred & Susan Cathcart Richard Gray Susan Hanrahan
Robert Juer Dr. Ray & Barbara Hall
Jerry Bookout Dr. Douglas Maglothin Heritage Bank John Rankin Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling Mary Stallings, Ken & Linda Stallings Kathy Moore Richard & Kimberly Blair Sue Lee Thyda Lee Fryer Tommye McNamara
Virginia & JT White Rhoda W. Smith
Jim Puckett Richard & Adrienne Rhodes
Zach Whited Janet Faulkner Karen Morrison Lurane Daugherty NEA Medical Center Richard & Kim Blair Robert & Daphne Perkins The Propsts (Rotorcraft, Inc.) Trudi Simmons
Jimmy Foust Richard & Kimberly Blair John Henry Pfriemer Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling John Steele Charles Rasberry
Nona Ford Brad & Dawn Schulz
Susan Drozdz Tommy Womack
Viva Gazaway Dr. & Mrs. John K. Phillips Waylon Russell Richard & Kimberly Blair William Barrett Jr. Dr. Mark & Peggy Stripling William Starnes Daya McAlexander
Letter from the Director
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
2006 Honorariums Ann Henley - Dr. Douglas Maglothin
salutes
Bill Welch - Angie Fowler Brenda Wiseman - Chapter BN P.E.O. Sisterhood
“The Triumph of the Human Spirit”
Carolyn Sims - Pam Stevens Charles Watson - Edward Watson Charlotte & Rod Faulkner’s 40th anniversary - Janice Long
Ten individuals were recognized as “community heroes” at the 2007 Triumph of the Human Spirit event on March 5. Each person honored exemplified Hope and Triumph as they faced adversity and used it to positively influence the lives of those around them. Selections were made from nominations submitted from throughout the area.
Cheryl Jones - Edward Pruett Debbie Stokes - Jeff Ramsey Dr. & Mrs. Allen Hughes - Louis Schaaf Dr. & Mrs. Gene Page - Louis Schaaf Dr. & Mrs. George Lipsey - Louis Schaaf Dr. & Mrs. Lou Adams - Louis Schaaf Dr. & Mrs. M. Coyle Shea, Jr. - Louis Schaaf
This year’s honorees were: Jerry Bookout (deceased), Sister Judith Dalesandro, Jim Huston, Julie Isaacson, Kim McNabb, Russell Patton III, Dr. Bascom Raney (deceased) and Bob Riley, all of Jonesboro; Rhonda Jones, Paragould and Rozene Whitby, Wynne.
Dr. Anthony White - Dr. Eumar Tagupa Dr. Carroll & Ruth Scroggin - Dr. Ronald & Karen Blachly Dr. Carroll Scroggin - NEA Medical Center Dr. DV Patel - Dr. Eumar Tagupa Dr. Michael Isaacson - Dr. Eumar Tagupa - NEA Medical Center
Sara Howell created the art, “The Continuum of Hope,” that served as the theme for the evening and was given to each of the honorees.
Dr. Michael Raborn - John & Ann Baxter Dr. Ray Hall - NEA Medical Center Dr. Reginald Barnes - Dr. Eumar Tagupa Dr. Robert Taylor - Dr. Eumar Tagupa Franka James Bowen - Jarrod & Peyton Bowen Jean Harris - Anonymous Jeresa Parten - John & Linda Aycock June Morse - Ruth King Kay Holden’s birthday - William Lievense Kim McNabb - Debbie & Keith Prevost - John & Linda Aycock Lucille Lawson - Brian Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Gary Prosterman - Louis Schaaf Mr. & Mrs. Neal Graham - Louis Schaaf Mr. & Mrs. Wesley Eddington - Dr. & Mrs. William R. Eddington
My depiction of the Continuum of Hope begins with open hearts and open hands that reveal, lift up and transfer the possibility and the reality of Hope to others. This Continuum of Hope is evident in the lives of each of our heroes who exemplify Hope and the Triumph of the Human Spirit. Sara Howell, 2007
Sarah Smith - Keegan Fowler Sharon Meyer - Dr. Ray & Barbara Hall Willa Frey - Len & Renea Frey
The inspirational evening was highlighted by the recognition of the heroes and a guest performance by David M. Bailey, a cancer survivor, singer and songwriter. Diana Davis, local TV anchor, emceed the program, which also featured the short video “Four Candles,” which depicted the importance of keeping hope alive through difficult times. Triumph of the Human Spirit was sponsored by The Sun. They continue to be a source of support for HopeCircle and its mission of spreading Hope throughout the area by providing service for families experiencing catastrophic illness.
Past recipients of the Community Hero awards are: 2006 – Adrienne Fulgham, Ann Henley, Clayton Mitchell, Becky Reid, Brandon Rollins, Tim Rook, Margaret Scott, Jay Simmons, Damron Thomas, Rev. Emil Williams; 2005 – Becky Brownfield, Shana Cochran, Dr. & Mrs. Bill Eddington, Lindsay Jones, Melinda Knight, Joyce Morgan, Ryan Morgan, Brad Pollard, Rebecca Simmons, Terry Lee Sullivan; 2004 – Mary Katherine Berry, Fred & Susan Cathcart, Lou Anne Clements, Dr. Faye Williams Cox, Shirley Crawford, Penny M. Downing (deceased), Diane Elizabeth Holmes, Jan McDaniel, Angela Stone Schmidt, Steven Wright.
39. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
You
Can Make a Difference
Bill Gates and Warren Buffett each have announced that what they want to pass along to their children will not be billions, but values. In an article by Tom Watson titled “Passing on Philanthropy: Branding the Next Generation of Givers,” Mr. Watson gave the results of a survey on philanthropy. Besides the information quoted by Mr. Gates and Mr. Buffett, it was cited that parents are teaching their children to value philanthropy, cultural experiences, and other personally enriching activities above material goods. “Giving – and the instinct to try and change the world for the better – seems to be part of being an American. The United States is the most philanthropic country on earth and despite the occasional plateaus, total giving always goes up over time. Total U.S. philanthropy – what we give away – is larger than the economy of Switzerland, and greater than the combined annual revenues of the two largest companies in America, Wal-Mart and ExxonMobil.” NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation is very grateful to be the recipient of many generous gifts. We rely on these gifts to fund our programs – programs that are reaching out and helping people every day. We hope you will consider becoming a part of our outreach programs; and if you already are, we hope you will continue to lead in this way. You might be asking: How can I participate? Donations – Because the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, all donations are tax deductible. You may make a gift at any time of the year, including year end. You may specify your contribution go toward one of our programs, or to the general fund to be used where most needed. Special Events – Events are planned throughout the year to reach supporters and offer opportunities to socialize and learn about topics of interest to the public. Please watch for these events that are advertised through local media and support with the purchase of a ticket, a table, a team or a sponsorship. Sponsors underwrite the expenses of the event so that money from ticket sales can go toward the needed programs. Memorials/Honorariums – Many people are finding that giving to a charity (instead of sending flowers or gifts in memory or honor of friends or loved ones) makes a very nice gift. Donations are sent to the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation at P.O. Box 1960, Jonesboro, AR 72403. Please send along where the acknowledgement card(s) should be sent. We will send a lovely card explaining your gift. Volunteer – Time is a very precious commodity. Non-profit organizations must operate with small staffs, so the need for volunteers is great. In fact, the work just couldn’t be done without volunteers. Our programs always need volunteers, so please call our office at 870-934-5101 for information or to sign up to become a volunteer. A special thanks to everyone in Northeast Arkansas who supports us! We appreciate you very much!
For more information: www.neacfoundation.org 40. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Thank you to all of
AG Edwards Allied Corporate Furniture BancorpSouth Beckman Coulter, Inc - Larry Vanek Bill Jackson Insurance Agency BKD BlackwellBaldwin Bob Robison Commercial Flooring Cahoon/Steiling Studio Cain Brothers Cameron Construction Cavenaugh Auto Group Chris Marketing Clean Solutions Coldwell Banker Crawley & Deloache Credit Bureau of Jonesboro Curves D. Chris Gardner, J.D., PLC Diversified Construction Group DNW E.C. Barton & Company Edward Jones Elite Graphics Emerson Ambulance Ericksson Associates Families, Inc. Farm Bureau - Thom Beasley First Commercial Bank First Community Bank First National Bank Gary Minor - Leadership Coach Gibson’s Pharmacy Gibson’s Sign Mart Glen Sain Motors Harley-Davidson of Jonesboro HealthSouth
E V E N T
S P O N S O R S
Our Events Include Art Slam Biker Classic
How
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation
our Event Sponsors
E V E N T
S P O N S O R S
Medicine Assistance Program
Thriving
Heritage Bank Home IV Specialists Hyneman & Associates Insurance Network, Inc. When NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation was formed in 2001, the very first program ISS Facility Services established to meet the needs of patients in Jonesboro Lawn Care the Northeast Arkansas region was a Jonesboro Sun program to help with the rising cost of prescription medicine. Over and over again, KAIT our physicians were seeing patients in their Liberty Bank offices who had been prescribed medicine Master Printing and who would return for a follow-up visit and still be very ill. The patients would then McLeod’s Store tell their physicians that they couldn’t afford the medicine that had been prescribed. Something had to be done to help these patients in need. Medic One Ambulance Medical Necessities Over the past two years alone, NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation Medicine Midwest Rug Assistance Program (MAP) has assisted in the distribution of over $12.5 million in free medication. When you think of this in terms of economic impact on our underserved National Radiology Group LLC population, it’s truly awesome. The majority of these patients are making life choices Nationwide Insurance of medication versus basic needs such as shelter, electricity or food. NEA Clinic NEA Clinic Wellness Center Ora “Bernice” Blaylock, 64, was one such person. She was being prescribed several medications for high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, but she could not afford NEA PremierCare them all. Altogether, they would have cost her several hundred dollars each month. She NEA Medical Center heard about MAP from a friend and soon found out she qualified. Nestle “I’m not a rich person, and I didn’t have any insurance NovaSys Health then and I still don’t,” she says. “I could not manage. I Nucor-Yamato Steel, Inc. what I w o n k t n’ would just not have taken it all because I just could not o d “I your t Orr, Lamb & Feglty u o h it w afford it at all.” e n o d would have Pinnacle Health Group . ys sa help,” Ora Now, after a few years of receiving her medications Preferred Hematology ved my life.” sa u o through the help of this program, Bernice is doing much “Y Services better. The relief for her was that she could take the medicine Professional Credit Management she needed to continue living. Research Solutions “I don’t know what I would have done without your help,” she says. “You saved my life.” Simmons First Bank Staffmark This program is made possible through partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, Tate General Contractors the support of our community, and our generous donors. Physicians from all over Northeast Arkansas refer patients to our program. It is our desire to reach the entire The Surgical Hospital of Jonesboro community, not just our NEA family. To participate in MAP there are two basic Triple FM Radio Stations criteria: You must meet the income guidelines set forth by the Womack, Landis, Phelps, pharmaceutical companies, and you must not have any McNeill, & McDaniel prescription drug coverage. MAP is open to any individual Woodsprings Pharmacy who meets the criteria. If you have any questions or would like to request additional information, please call us at 934-5400 or print forms from our website, www.neacfoundation.org.
Woman to Woman Luncheon Duck Classic
M edicine A ssistance Pr o g r a m
Thanks for your support! Kim Provost Medicine Assistance Program Manager
41. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
New Program...
and cardiac patients who are referred by their physician. This program is funded by NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation and is offered to the entire community!
Already changing lives in Northeast Arkansas Two years ago, Randall Watkins was in the hospital with kidney failure, high blood pressure, diabetes and neuropathy. Due to the effects of his illness, he had to take a year off from work on short-term disability. He also became dependent on an insulin pump to regulate his blood sugar. On January 3, 2007, Randall decided on a new course of action. He joined the recently formed Wellness Works, a free 8-week program that offers education and exercise regimens to people with specific diseases like diabetes. What Randall found during his 8-week course was a renewed sense of control over his illness, a higher level of energy, and a more positive outlook on his life. He lost 7 pounds and increased his muscle mass. According to his physician, he may be able to stop using the insulin pump if he keeps up the good work. “They taught me that I have control over diabetes, rather than diabetes having control over me,” said Randall. “They also taught me how to count my grams so I could watch what I was eating, and that exercise would bring my blood sugar down. … I think it will increase my lifespan, and it will help me to watch the types of food that I eat and not just grab something and not looking at the grams and sugar content.” Wellness Works is the newest program to be offered by the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation. It is offered free of charge to diabetic, cancer
Wellness Works includes education, nutrition advice and exercise programs in support of specific diseases. The Wellness Works staff includes medical professionals, certified personal trainers, nutritionists, behavioral health specialists and a certified diabetes educator. The entire staff works together to give the participants the best possible edge in treating and managing their condition. Participants involved in Wellness Works learn the importance of proper nutrition and exercise in their daily lives. The program consists of individualized exercise prescriptions and guided exercise, weekly nutrition classes and emotional wellness discussions with counselors from Families, Inc.
Yvette & Randall Watkins
Classes take place three times per week in the NEA Clinic Wellness Center to support patients in implementing nutrition and exercise as part of their treatment process. Exercise components consist of aerobic training, strength and endurance training, and flexibility. The program also includes educational lectures and materials that provide
2006 Donors Aaron Yim Addison Marie Chetister Amie Files Amy Keton Amy Stein Angela Brewington Angela Fowler Angela Jones Angie Carlton Anne Stone Annette Bednar Annette Hurst Anonymous Arnold Investments Ashley Montgomery Ashley Watson Ashli Finley Betty Mathis Beverly McIntire Bill Lievense Bobby & Frankie Hogue Bobby Gall Brenda Flippo Brenda Hillyer Brenda Sullivan
Brenda Wiseman Carolyn Tacker Carrie Aquino Chantal Perkins Charlene Flowers Charlotte Ladd Chela Hutson Cheryl Diann West Cheryl Hensley Cheryl Wall Trimarchi Christy Chandler Christy Tedder City of Jonesboro Connie Clark Crane Fund for Widows & Children Crystal Young Cynthia W. Hannah Dallie Ricca David & Terricia Mosesso David and Faye Cox Dawn Fox Deanna Farris Deanna Milligan Deanna Turner
42. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Deborah Lochridge Denise Boles Donna Blanton Donna Shoemaker Dr. & Mrs. Allen Nixon, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. Don Vollman Dr. Anthony White Dr. Bing Behrens Dr. Bruce Jones Dr. Bryan Lansford Dr. Carroll Scroggin Dr. Charles Barker Dr. Charles Dunn Dr. Craig & Cindy McDaniel Dr. D. V. Patel Dr. David Nichols Dr. Douglas Maglothin Dr. James Cullins Dr. Jerry Biggerstaff Dr. Joe George Dr. John Beineke Dr. Joseph McGrath Dr. Joseph Rhodes Dr. Kenneth Chan
Dr. Kevin Ganong Dr. Mark Stripling Dr. Meredith Walker Dr. Michael Hong Dr. Michael Isaacson Dr. Michael Mackey Dr. Norbert Delacey Dr. Ray Hall, Jr. Dr. Richard & Julie Covert Dr. Robert Abraham Dr. Robert Taylor Dr. Ronald Blachly Dr. Russell Degges Dr. Scott Hoke Dr. Stephen Woodruff Dr. Timothy Dow Dr. Tomasz Majewski Dr. Troy Vines Elisha Berry Elizabeth Guthrie Erica Renee West Erika Brodell Everdina Kregting Gale Hollaway Gay White
Gayle Sprinkle Genevieve Moore Gwenda Gschwend Holly & Rusty Acebo Holly Kiech Jane Lynch Janet Weston Janice Long Janice Massey Janie Boone Jean Kopert Jeanne Strahan Jeff Holder Jeremy Frakes Jerry and Sondra Cox Jessica Martin Jill Drope Jillian Harris Jim Boswell Joanne Johnson Jon & Kim Wilbanks Jonesboro Jaycees Josh or Stacia Gallion Josiephene Gulley Joey Perry Martial Arts
Joy Childs Joyce Chastain Joyce Darling Joyce Files Joyce Jackson Juanita Hackman Judy Bennett Judy Fletcher Judy Lenderman Judy Rogers June Morse Karen Barker Karen Bryant Karen Burnett Karen James Karen Lynch Karen Rabb Pope Kathy McPike Kathy Thompson Keisha Rochell Kimberly Williams Kinya Lacy Kristen Davis Kristina Ebbert Kristy Wilson
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
information on various aspects of exercise and nutrition for the improvement of health and quality of life. Counseling services are provided for support, stress reduction, and behavioral health. For Randall Watkins, the help and motivation he received here was invaluable. His wife, Yvette, was also able to attend so that she could learn along with him and help him through it. She points out that the small class sizes were a great environment for the program, and that the individualized, one-on-one attention Randall received helped him in his specific situation. For the Watkins family, the program has truly been family affair. Their 9-year-old daughter, Tylea, joined the Center for Healthy Children (another free Foundation program that operates in the Wellness Center – see page 36 for article), and she too has learned about proper nutrition and exercise and is now more active. Randall is using the information he has learned to help other family members, many of whom are diabetics. Referral forms for Wellness Works can be printed from our website at www.neacfoundation.org or picked up at the NEA Clinic Wellness Center at 2617 Phillips Drive. For more information, contact Meg Williamson at (870) 336-1760 or visit the NEA Clinic Wellness Center.
Hope will be celebrated throughout the community during the second annual Celebration of Hope Week, September 24-30. Mark your calendar and begin making plans to participate in this unique, inspirational, week-long celebration of the spirit of Hope and its importance in each of our lives and in the life of our community. Individuals and groups can participate in saluting Hope in whatever manner best suits their personal or corporate mission. Schools, churches, non-profit organizations, businesses and corporations are all encouraged to celebrate what makes this such a hopeful community. Last year’s initial Hope Week saw hundreds involved in a variety of projects from collecting food to putting on a carnival for children, and from hosting a guest author to an art display for elementary students. Organizations used the week to honor their employees who epitomized Hope and to instill Hope in others through service projects. The options for saluting Hope are as varied as the groups involved. Events that were a part of last year’s event can be viewed on the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation’s website, www.neacfoundation.org. A planning meeting for Celebration of Hope Week will be held in late April. To participate in the planning process, for more information, or to have your group’s events included in the Calendar of Hope, contact June Morse, HopeCircle Manager 934-5214 or Christy Appleton, Director 934-5137.
Lana Jackson Larry Grisham Laura Dennis Laura Sullivan Laura Taylor Laura Tribble Leah West Lena Harrison Leona Miller Lesie McCasland Leslie Amber Austin Leslie Kosloff Letha Brown Lindsey Stewart Lisa Craig Lisa Lane Lisa Neff Lisa Sagely Lloyd and Linda Wofford Lois Montgomery Lola Jackson Lori Mixon Lynn Greene
Lynn Ratliff M. J. Sherman Madeline Sinor Marcia Whitehurst Margaret Cooper Margaret Easley Mark Carpenter Marta Jones Martha Jean Hagen Martha Stafford Mary Block Mary Dover Mary Elizabeth Holland Mary Hines Mary Jo Robinson Mary Loucks Mary Wismiller Melanie Smith Melinda Wells Melissa Bruno Melissa Gibson Melissa Roberts Michelle Canizales
Michelle Shannon Mr. & Mrs. Scott McDaniel Mrs. John W. Troutt Jr. Nakostta Dement Nancy Arminda Walters Nicole DeWitt Nicole Frakes Nikki Brown Norma Hillis Patricia Bowden Patsy Carter Patti McQueen Patty Caples Patty Watts Paul & Ann Waits Paula Earnhart Peggy Grimes Peggy Stripling Phyllis Qualls Polly West Professional Credit Management R & B Paving &
Sealcoating Rasheena McKay Rebecca Edwards Regina Escue Rhonda Brown Rhynea Debow Richard Blair Richard Gray Rita Rogers Robert Acree Robin Newsom Rodney Haynes Ruth Holden Sandy Mills Sarah Campbell Scot Davis Shannon Boling Sharon Townsend Shawna Starnes Sheila Davison Sheila Lasley Sheffields Sherrie Mitchell
Sheryna Chadwick Shirley Millsap Snell Prosthetic & Orthotic Laboratory Southern Home Healthcare Stacia Gallion Staffmark Stan & Sharon Langley Stephanie Davis Stephanie Devries Steve and Jennifer May Sue Ella Inman Sue Haggenmacher Susan E Erwin Susan Hamrick Suzanne Franklin T. Scott Allen, DDS Tammy Mays Tammy Mobley Tammy Passmore Tara Waggoner Teresa Shempert Terina Reeks
Terrance Braden Terry & Beth Womble Tina Hawkins Tracy Clements Tracy Griggs Triad Corporate Trudi Simmons Tyler Parnell Velta Waters Vernita Bruner Vickie Robinson Victoria Hitchcock Victoria Lorenson Virginia Edwards W. Holley Wayne Wiggins Wendy Carter William Loucks Wilma Rice
43. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
Charity and Briyonna are two average children. These sisters enjoy the things most girls do, but they also face a challenge that many other kids their age struggle with – their weight. At 10 years old and only 4 feet, 7 inches tall, Charity was already at 124 pounds last June. Briyonna, at age 12 and just over 5 feet, 4 inches, was at nearly 160 pounds. Then they began a journey that would change their life. They enrolled in the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation Center for Healthy Children, a free 4month program that teaches children how to overcome their battles with weight by eating healthy and exercising. By December, Charity had lost 14 pounds and had gone from a body fat percentage of 42.8 to 36.2. Briyonna was 18 pounds lighter and had a body fat percentage of 26.3 compared to her previous 32.5 The Center for Healthy Children was founded a year ago with a mission to improve the health of this region’s children by teaching them principles of proper nutrition and exercise. The Center’s free program is offered to children ages 6 to 12 who are struggling with their weight. The classes are led by certified exercise instructors and a registered dietitian. Parents join in on the nutrition classes to learn how to incorporate principles of healthy eating into their families’ diets. Although every single person alive today should be aware of the importance of exercise and a good diet, the problem of obesity in the state of Arkansas makes it imperative that we have resources available to people in our community who need guidance with this issue. Too many children in our region are overweight or obese because they – and their parents – simply are uneducated about the causes of their weight, as well as the diseases they most likely will suffer from as a result of their condition. Diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease are just some of the problems overweight people are likely to face. Body weight is an especially important topic for African Americans, as this population statistically has a higher rate of illnesses and conditions that often stem from obesity. According to the American Heart Association, black children have a slightly higher risk for stroke than white children, and they also have a higher average blood cholesterol level. The prevalence of high blood pressure in blacks in the United States is among the highest in the world. Compared with whites, blacks develop high blood pressure earlier in life and their average blood
44. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Success pressures are much higher. But children of all demographics are at risk. Today, 11 million kids are overweight, and an additional 13 million are at risk for being overweight. As a result, more and more kids are developing the adult diseases we all dread so much. If you or someone you know struggles with weight, do something about it. Make it a priority to improve your health. For adults, simply joining a gym and taking advantage of the equipment and classes offered there may do the trick. Others just need to make a habit of taking a long walk every day. For Charity and Briyonna, the lifestyle changes they learned at the Center for Healthy Children became a family affair. Their mother, Bridgette Davis, lost around 40 pounds during the program from changing all eating habits, as well as doing water aerobics and walking the track in the Wellness Center while the girls were in class. It is important to remember that the children in your life depend on the leadership of adults to guide their lifestyles and habits. Encourage them to be active, to play outside instead of watching TV, to eat healthy foods instead of candy and fast food. If you need help with a particular child, please contact the Center for Healthy Children. A simple application process is required for the 4-month program. Applications can be obtained online at www.neacfoundation.org/chc/application.php or at the Center For Healthy Children, 2617 Phillips Dr., inside the NEA Clinic Wellness Center. Call Laura Taylor, Manager, at 870.336.1760 or visit our website for more information www.neacfoundation.org. To donate to the program, call 934-5137.
NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation ... Giving back to the community of Northeast Arkansas
I would like to thank our communities in Northeast Arkansas for supporting NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation over the years. Many people and businesses have donated their time and talents and have given financial support to the Foundation so that programs such as HopeCircle, Medicine Assistance Program, the Center for Healthy Children, and our new Wellness Works program can be offered to patients and families throughout this region. The Foundation was originally formed by the NEA Clinic physicians with the goal of improving health care in our communities. The four programs that are supported by the foundation are provided free of charge and are funded by special fund-raising events and by donations and memorials. As an oncologist and hematologist, I am excited to see that many malignant diseases can be successfully treated and even cured, especially with the newer forms of treatment which keep coming out. Yet, a diagnosis of cancer is associated with much psychological stress that can overwhelm patients and their families. I have been privileged to see first hand the compassionate care provided by HopeCircle staff and volunteers for those who have a devastating illness. From simple supportive measures (such as a smile or touch in
the chemotherapy room or providing wigs or hats), to counseling and educational programs, to support groups and spiritual support, HopeCircle has touched many lives so they can carry on with their day-to-day life with hope and dignity. The HopeCircle staff will intervene with comprehensive support for patients and their families who have any type of catastrophic illness, not just cancer. Patients who have some types of cancer can be cured with newer forms of therapy which are not chemotherapy but kill the cancer by blocking the cell’s growth receptor or the actual enzyme that causes the cancer. These newer forms of therapy are very effective for some types of cancer but cost thousands of dollars each month. The Medicine Assistance Program helps qualified patients get the needed prescriptions from the pharmaceutical companies at no cost. I have been exercising at the NEA Clinic Wellness Center and have seen exciting results with the Center for Healthy Children. This program was formed to help improve the health of overweight children, which is a significant problem in our communities. The children are very motivated to exercise, and it is heart warming to see smiles on their faces and an obvious improvement in their self esteem. More importantly, these children and their families are counseled on proper nutrition.
Make Mother’s or Father’s Day Last All Year Long If you want to give a gift this Mother’s or Father’s Day that will last, consider donating to the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation. Your gift will provide support and wellness to patients with cancer, heart disease, and diabetes and other catastrophic illnesses. It will help fight childhood obesity and help patients obtain needed medications. Your mother, father, grandmother or grandfather will receive a card from NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation telling them a gift was made in her or his honor. Send us your charitable contribution in the envelope provided in this issue to ensure your generosity touches the lives of others all year round. (envelope in the centerfold of magazine)
For more information, contact the NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation office at 870-934-5101.
An emphasis is made on changing the lifestyle and life skills of the children and parents so to improve the nutritional health, which can lead to further weight loss. Our goal is to change the nutritional and exercise habits in these children for a lifetime. Our newest program, Wellness Works, is a free medical and health professional monitored fitness program available exclusively for diabetic, cardiopulmonary and cancer patients. It’s very important for these patients to get back to – or even start – a healthy lifestyle, and I’ve been very pleased with the results from this program. I have patients, family members, and friends ask me what they can do to help support these programs. I encourage them to continue to support all our fund-raising events. I respectfully ask all of you in the community to continue to do so and to consider a donation or memorial for a friend or loved one in behalf of the Charitable Foundation. I and all of the members of our Board of Directors will continue to be good stewards of the financial support entrusted to us. Sincerely, Carroll Scroggin, M.D. President, NEA Clinic Charitable Foundation
Thank you to our Board of Directors! Holly Acebo Executive Director Christy Appleton Director Dr. Carroll Scroggin President Janice Cranford Vice President Steve May, Treasurer Dr. Anthony White Barbara Weinstock Loretta Bookout Chaplain Edward Pruett Dr. Scott Hoke
Dr. Joseph George Dr. Bruce Jones Dr. Ken Chan Woody Freeman Dr. Susan Hanrahan Ronnie Norman Dr. Melissa Yawn Ava Jane Duke Bobbi Fowler Bobby Hogue Dr. Steve Woodruff Dr. Robert Taylor Jim Boswell
45. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Fruity French Toast Tortilla Wraps
Tiny Pizza Ingredients: • 1 standard-sized bagel, cut in half • Tomato sauce • Shredded mozzarella cheese • Toppings like diced green pepper, chopped onion, or chopped tomato (whatever you like) • Seasonings like oregano, basil, and pepper Directions: 1. Set the oven to low heat. 2. Spread tomato sauce on each bagel half. 3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese all over the tomato sauce on each half. 4. Add your favorite toppings. 5. Put a light sprinkling of seasonings on each half. 6. Put your bagel halves on the baking sheet. 7. Bake in the oven on low heat for about 5 to 8 minutes. You'll know they're done when the cheese is bubbly. 8. Let cool for a minute, then enjoy your tiny pizzas! Serving size: 2 tiny pizzas Nutritional analysis (per serving): 210 calories, 9 g protein, 4 g fat, 34 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 11 mg cholesterol, 633 mg sodium, 144 mg calcium, 1.9 mg iron
46. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
Ingredients: • 4 Flour Tortillas • Nonstick cooking spray • 2 eggs • 1 cup milk • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 cup pie filling or sliced fresh fruit • Powdered sugar Directions: 1. In a shallow pie plate mix together eggs, milk and vanilla. 2. Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray. 3. Heat skillet over medium heat until hot. 4. Place tortilla in egg mixture, gently turning to coat both sides. Place in hot skillet and cook 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. 5. Remove from pan onto plate. 6. Fill with fruit and roll up. 7. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve. Makes 4 wraps
1/2 c mashed potatoes (112 cal, 5 g fat)
Same size as: 1/2 apple
Breakfast Quick, Easy & Healthy We've all heard that it's really important to eat breakfast if you want to have plenty of energy and a speedy metabolism. Try some of our easy breakfast suggestions that are actually lickity-split healthy meals! Cinnamon & Raisin Toasted Surprise - Top a slice of wholewheat raisin toast with non- or low-fat cottage cheese and sprinkle with cinnamon. Egg Roll-Up - Roll up a whole-wheat tortilla filled with scrambled egg beaters and salsa. Toss in your favorite precut veggies (try onions, peppers, spinach or mushrooms). Mediterranean Delite - Spread 3 tablespoons of hummus on half a toasted whole-wheat pita. Stuffed Melon - Scoop a 1/2 cup of non- or low-fat cottage cheese into a cantaloupe or honeydew half.
Do you know how big 3 oz of beef is? Do you carry a measuring cup?
Waffle Time - Warm a whole-wheat waffle. Top with low- or non-fat yogurt and sliced fresh fruit.
Here are a dozen easy conversions for standard servings. (The nutritional information may vary.)
Easy Smoothie - Blend a 1/2 cup each of plain low-fat yogurt and orange juice with half a frozen banana and a few frozen strawberries.
1 oz sausage link (54 cal, 5 g fat) Same size as: shotgun shell
Good Ol' Faithful - Add fresh fruit or cereal (like Raisin Bran or lowfat granola) to plain low- or non-fat yogurt.
1 tsp butter (34 cal, 4 g fat) Same size as: tip of thumb 1/2 c mashed potatoes (112 cal, 5 g fat) Same size as: 1/2 apple 1 oz cubed Swiss cheese (107 cal, 8 g fat) Same size as: 4 dice 1/2 c cooked spaghetti (99 cal, 1 g fat) Same size as: fist 3 oz beef (219 cal, 13 g fat) Same size as: deck of cards 1/2 c ice cream (143 cal, 7 g fat) Same size as: tennis ball 4 oz dry spaghetti (422 cal, 2 g fat) Same size as: a quarter (when held tightly together and viewed from the end)
1 c chicken-noodle soup (175 cal, 6 g fat) Same size as: baseball 1 Tbsp blue-cheese dressing (77 cal, 8 g fat) Same size as: 1/2 golf ball 8 oz lasagna (270 cal, 8 g fat) Same size as: 2 hockey pucks
New York Style Breakfast -Toast half a whole-wheat bagel and spread non-fat ricotta on it with an ounce of lox. Apple With Peanut Butter Toast - Spread a tablespoon of peanut butter on a slice of whole-wheat bread and spread another tablespoon on an apple. Banana Wrap-Up - Spread a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter on a slice of whole-wheat bread. Sprinkle with a teaspoon of sunflower seeds if desired. Wrap around a banana. Fruity Refresher - Stir a 1/2 cup each of plain, low-fat yogurt and orange-pineapple-banana juice with 1/3 cup of sliced banana and half a dozen fresh/frozen blueberries. Freeze overnight in a container or paper cup. As you let it defrost, you'll have a refreshing slushy or in paper cup, you can eat it like a frozen push-pop. Just Like Home - Microwave a cup of oatmeal and toss 2 tablespoons of slivered almonds on top.
47. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
We like to send you home with a little something extra.
There’s no other event like the birth of a child. And there’s no other place like The Women’s Center at NEA Medical Center. It’s there you’ll receive outstanding care and extraordinary service. Our birthing suites are equipped with the latest in modern technology, yet offer you all the comforts and feel of home. And our dedicated staff and low nurse-to-patient ratio means prompt attention to your every need. In fact, we’ll even go so far as to spoil you while you are here. But don’t get too used to it, because that “little something extra” is waiting to be spoiled by you!
LEADING EDGE HEALTHCARE
®
870-972-7000 www.neamedicalcenter.com
ALL PRIVATE ROOMS 48. NEA HEALTH • Spring/Summer 2007
MORE BANK FOR YOUR BUCK. OUR INTERNET BANKING IS 100% ABSOLUTELY FREE
Most every bank offers online banking, but only Heritage offers FREE bill pay, no matter how many transactions you make. Plus, Kim Bowen can help set up your account access and answer any questions right at our main branch location—or she’s just an e-mail or phone call away. Add to that a FREE check card and FREE checks for the life of your account, and we’re not just more convenient, we’re just plain more bank for your buck.
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