NSIDE Coastal Bend MD Oct/Nov 2013 by NSIDE Corpus Christi

COASTAL BEND

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MD OCTOBER.NOVEMBER 2013

THE GO-TO TEAM OBGYN ASSOCIATES OF CORPUS CHRISTI

» STYLE & SUBSTANCE FEATURING JENNIFER PULIDO MARTINEZ N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

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Our mission is to provide medical

transport for critically ill or injured persons requiring medical or trauma facilities within our South Texas service area. Emergency assistance is provided to all persons regardless of their ability to pay.

www.haloflight.org 361.265.0509

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Alice 361-664-4888 路 Corpus Christi 361-882-5900 www.rivercityhospice.com

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CORPUS CHRISTI PODIATRY -

DIABETIC FOOT CARE BUNIONS HAMMERTOES INGROWN TOENAILS PAINFUL NEUROPATHIC FEET

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DR. JOHN R. GOUIN

2601 HOSPITAL BOULEVARD - SUITE 211 - CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78405

361.883.5955

BOARD CERTIFIED IN FOOT SURGERY WITH THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PODIATRIC SURGERY FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF FOOT AND ANKLE SURGEONS MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION N S I D E C O AOF S T A L“AN B E N D UNFORGETTABLE MD 6 AUTHOR SALUTE,” AVAILABLE AT IUNIVERSE.COM AND BARNES AND NOBLE

Kingsville

HOME REHAB Serving South Texas, San Antonio and Austin.

Focused on restoring function and regaining independence. Kingsville Home Rehab Services, Inc. was established in 2004 and is a leader in home health rehabilitation. We provide to our patients quaility and evidencebased rehabilitaiton services. Integrity, excellence, trust and compassion are the core values in which Kingsville Home Rehab therapist’ and staff follow day to day, and from one home to the next. Kingsville Home Rehab’s primary goal is to enhance a patient’s quality of life with subtle changes. Whether teaching a fall prevetion program or making small postural changes to relief lower back pain, our goal is to maximize our patient’s potential.

P.O. Box 1205 Kingsville, Texas 78364 Ph: (361) 221-9177 Fax: (361) 221-0178

www.kingsvillehomerehab.com N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

Come Visit Our House! Always in need Of volunteers! Visit gchscc.org For info!

Looking for a place to bring those old towels and newspapers? Bring em’ to us!

NSIDE Coastal Bend MD

P U October/November B L I C A T I 2013 ONS

ceo/nside media productions eliot garza South Texas’s Largest True No Kill

publisher adrian garza

We currently have HUNDREDS of wonderful pets awaiting loving, responsible homes. Adoption = more lives saved.

executive editor

Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday 11am-6pm Sundays noon-6pm 361-225-0845 318 Cabaniss Pkwy. CC, TX 78415 Add Us on Facebook!

Erin O’Brien

creative director Elisa Giordano

senior graphic designer Cristina Villa Hazar

executive assistant Elena Flores

account executives Jessica Salinas Amanda Villarreal

contributing writers Steven Alford Mandy Ashcraft Miguel Castro Cory Houdmann Brent Norman

photography Dustin Ashcraft Raymond Gray

editorial intern Katrina Torres

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For advertising information, please call 361.548.1044 or email adrian@getnside.com. For editorial comments and suggestions, please email adrian@getnside.com.

PUBLIC ATIONS

18402 U.S. Highway 281 N, Ste. 201 San Antonio, Texas 78259 Phone: 210.298.1761

nsidethisissue october/november 2013

cover story

departments

The first certified bone densitometry center in the city continues its legacy of serving Coastal Bend families with a team approach and a commitment to providing top-quality care nearly 30 years after its inception.

12 20 24 28 30

14 OBGYN Associates of Corpus Christi

Feature Health & Wellness Patient Senior Care Style & Substance N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

Saving eyesight...

Over 1,600 diabetic retina laser treatments

every year.

Charles H. Campbell, M.D.,F.A.C.S. and Walter E. Moscoso, M.D. Diseases and surgery of the vitreous and retina.

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5540 Saratoga Blvd. #200 361-993-8510 1-800-779-3482 with satellite offices in Kingsville, Beeville, Aransas Pass

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NSIDE feature

Clinical Excellence By: [Steven Alford]

Dr. Cherie Johnson and CHRISTUS Spohn Medical Group were recently awarded an ultrasound practice accreditation from the Ultrasound Practice Council of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM). The highly regarded designation has come to represent the highest level of commitment to clinical excellence in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. It’s also a first for the health system. “This is a major accomplishment,” said Dr. Peter J. Plantes, chief physician executive of CHRISTUS Spohn Medical Group. “Dr. Cherie Johnson and her staff are the first practice in the CHRISTUS Spohn region to receive this accreditation, and this shows their commitment to providing excellent advanced care for the maternal-fetal patient population.” To pass the accreditation and meet the nationally recognized standards, applicants must meet a rigorous set of criteria, demonstrating their high level

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of knowledge of performance and interpretation of diagnostic ultrasound examinations. The accreditation process encourages providers of diagnostic ultrasound services to assess their strengths and weaknesses and to initiate changes to improve their practices, according to the AIUM. Practices accredited by the institute have demonstrated competency in every aspect of diagnostic ultrasound operation, including education, training, experience, instrumentation, equipment, patient safety, quality assurance and more. It also demonstrates that Johnson’s practice has met the quality assurance requirements of a growing number of insurance providers, making the practice a frontrunner in the level of care it can provide to Coastal Bend families. The AIUM is a multidisciplinary medical association of more than 9,200 physicians, sonographers

and scientists dedicated to advancing the safe and effective use of ultrasound in medicine through professional and public education, research and development of guidelines and accreditation. Please join us in congratulating Johnson and her team.

Dr. Cherie Johnson practices at 5920 Saratoga Blvd., Ste. 540, in Corpus Christi, Texas. To schedule an appointment, call 361883-6030. And to learn more about CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, visit www.christusspohn.org.

ultrasound image Dmitry Kalinovsky/shutterstock.com

Dr. Cherie Johnson and CHRISTUS Spohn Medical Group earn the prestigious ultrasound practice accreditation from the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Welcome to the SOUTH TEXAS BRAIN AND SPINE CENTER. Our surgeons provide neurosurgical care in many of the major hospitals in Corpus Christi, Texas. Our surgeons and staff provide individual and conservative treatment using the most effective and modern technologies available in the world.

SOUTH TEXAS BRAIN AND SPINE CENTER 1227 3rd Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78404

361.883.4323

www.southtexasbrainandspine.net N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

dr. kathleen Bailey with newborn twins

Continuing

the

Legacy dr. pradeiro

dr. Carolina Praderio N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

By: [Steven Alford] Photography: [raymond gray]

or nearly 30 years, thousands of Coastal Bend women have chosen Obstetrical and Gynecological (OBGYN) Associates of Corpus Christi as their provider for birthing, women’s services and more – and for good reason. The small office attached to the big South Side hospital has become known as the go-to team for women’s care because of their innovation, availability and above all, committed attitude. Located next to CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South, the eight physicians of OBGYN Associates strive to provide the best care to their patients while keeping up with fast-paced advancements in their fields of medicine. “I think our practice is set apart from the other large practices in town because we work more like a group,” said Dr. Jane Stafford, who joined the practice in 1993. “We trust each other and in fact, refer patients to each other based on our strengths. We help each other in surgery and we encourage each other to pursue our dreams.” That sense of teamwork is evident when you see the physicians interact. They chat, they laugh and they share information more like old friends than colleagues. Coming

OBGYN Associates of Corpus Christi: the go-to team for women’s care

drs. melissa Chiasson and carolina Praderio to their offices, one feels a sense of home. Artful paintings adorn the walls, candles and fresh scents fill the carpeted hallways and each physician’s office is decorated with the trappings and trophies of their outside lives. But don’t let the relaxed atmosphere fool you; there is some serious work being done here. Last year alone, more than 1,200 babies were delivered by OBGYN Associates physicians. “I think one

of the biggest strengths of our practice is that we do have a variety of providers and personalities to best fit the needs of our patients,” said Jana Rye, office administrator. “Finding the right doctor is all about personal choice, and at our practice, we really do have someone for everybody.” It all began in 1979, when Dr. Bill N. Griffin met Dr. William Barth, who already had a practice called OBGYN Associates. Griffin joined him in

dr. jane stafford

✚✚✚✚✚

“We really care about our patients and do everything we can to ensure our patients receive the best care possible.” N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

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dr. laura shelton

dr. mary hyde

drs. john luke and jane stafford

dr. kathleen Bailey with baby dr. kathleen rasmussen

“One of our biggest strengths is that we have a variety of providers and personalities to best fit the needs of our patients.”

July and became a partner one year later. Dr. John Duke was the first partner to join the two doctors, and he has remained there ever since, making him the senior physician onboard. “Over the years, we have had many fine physicians,” he said. “Some have remained, and others have moved on.” Duke brings a flair of seniority to the office from behind the desk in his rustic office. For him, there’s nowhere else he can imagine working. “There is not a more challenging or rewarding profession than medicine,” he said. “It requires a lifetime of commitment to unselfishly serving others.” While thousands of births have been performed under the careful watch of OBGYN Associates physicians, over the years, the office has branched out

to include many more integral services in-house for area women. These include state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to closely monitor an infant’s health during pregnancy; advanced mammography to provide early cancer detection; and in-house laboratory services. It’s important to note that OBGYN Associates of Corpus Christi was the first certified bone densitometry center in the city, and the only one where results are reviewed by a certified bone densitometrist. The office has also recently begun performing minimally invasive surgeries using the da Vinci robot at nearby CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South, a piece of robotic technology so advanced that you would think it had just fallen off a spaceship.

“With this state-of-the-art tool, we are able to do most procedures that were previously done with a large incision through only a few small incision sites,” said Dr. Laura Shelton, who joined the practice in 1999. “Because of this minimally invasive technique, patients have a much faster recovery with little postoperative pain and are back to normal activities in just one to two weeks.” Dr. Carolina Praderio says the success of the office lies in the fact that all members of the team are truly committed to providing high-quality care to their patients and making sure their needs are met, whatever they may be. “Personally, I think that the fact that I am a fluent Spanish speaker helps me connect with a broader N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

dr. melissa Chiasson and r.n.

DO L A R I G BOL T Ú F ELITE SCIENCE OF SOCCER WITH STYLE

About CHRISTUS Spohn Health System

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CHRISTUS Spohn Health System is the region’s largest charity care provider and not-for-profit health care system consisting of six hospital campuses: CHRISTUS Spohn Corpus Christi (Shoreline, Memorial and South), CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice, CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Beeville and CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Kleberg (Kingsville). The health system is consistently ranked as a leading health system in the area and has received national recognition for several pioneering programs, including cardiac care, clinical excellence and oncology. For more than 100 years, CHRISTUS Spohn has been distinguished by its high-caliber staff and affiliated physicians, its comprehensive and innovative services and its long history of responding to the needs of the community it serves. range of patients from the community,” said Praderio, who was born in Argentina. “I can say that we really care about our patients and do everything we can to ensure our patients receive the best care possible.” But it’s not only a great place to come for highquality care – it’s also a great place to work, according to Dr. Melissa Chiasson, the newest physician in the office. In addition to the office’s eight physicians, there are more than 40 members of support staff employed there. “I chose to join this practice because I believe they practice safe, up-to-date, thoughtful and caring medicine,” Chiasson said. “The partners work close together to provide the best care for their patients within the newest practice guidelines for obstetrics and gynecology.” For several of the physicians at OBGYN Associates of Corpus Christi, medicine was a part of daily life growing up. Many come from families where their mother or father was a physician, too. Even though her father was a surgeon, Dr. Kathleen Bailey never thought she would grow up to be a doctor until she shadowed Griffin, the founding physician, when she was just in grade school. He predicted she would work at his practice one day – and she now occupies her former mentor’s office. She says it’s a rewarding experience she wouldn’t trade for anything. “I love to help people. I’m drawn to it,” Bailey said of delivering babies. “A baby being born is a miracle every time – even at 2 a.m.” Among their wide-ranging backgrounds and expertise, the practice’s physicians also hold several

respected positions in the Corpus Christi medical community. Dr. Kathleen Rasmussen serves as vice president for medical affairs at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South and co-chairman of the obstetrics and gynecology department. Rasmussen is excited about the direction of health care and foresees even more patient involvement in the future. “I think more emphasis will be placed on health maintenance appointments for patients,” she said. “I think it will be routine for patients to make their own appointments online, send in updates on their medical history to the physician’s office and obtain more of their results online.” As the practice continues to navigate changes in medicine and constant advances in technology, they continue to build up a reputation established with just two Corpus Christi physicians. With any luck, they’ll be here for another 30 years, delivering the babies of children they once brought into the world. Dr. Mary Joy Hyde moved to Corpus Christi from East Texas and fell in love with the area. She says she’s proud to build upon the legacy of OBGYN Associates of Corpus Christi – one that has been put in place over the years by some of the best physicians in Texas. “Experience is priceless,” she said. “Learn something from everyone you meet – patients, nurses and other physicians. They all have something to teach you.”

For more information on CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, visit www.christusspohn.org.

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In small doses, apple cider vinegar has been shown to control appetite, satisfy cravings and stabilize internal pH.

The Skinny on Apple Cider Vinegar

A surprising possible secret to effective weight management and a healthier 2014 By: [Mandy Ashcraft]

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It’s fall in South Texas, and pretty much anything that comes flavored or scented can be found in a seasonal “apple cider” option, usually located next to anything “pumpkin spice.” It’s no stranger to our autumnal spirits, as we would not think twice about swirling a mug of it around with a cinnamon stick in our living rooms. (I’d say with a fire lit, but let’s be realistic. I’ll just say, “with the A/C turned off.”) But how would you feel about kicking back with a mug of apple cider … vinegar? Apple cider vinegar is a product of the fermentation process of liquid strained from whole apples, where the sugar-alcohols become vinegar through a complex process involving acetic acid-forming bacteria and yeast. It’s a cider chemically taken a few steps further. None of that sounds appetizing. None of that sounds delicious when swirled with a cinnamon stick. What if the body reacted differently to it, though? What if your body could use such a chemical concoction to help you battle the effects of the things you consume that are appetizing? In short: weight management. In small doses, apple cider vinegar has been shown in numerous studies to control appetite, satisfy cravings and stabilize internal pH. Your body is dependent on alkalinity to remain disease-free, and since we can’t exactly swallow litmus paper to check and see what’s going on pH-wise, it’s up to us to use our best judgment in regards to what we put in our bodies to keep everything running smoothly. But that pumpkin pie looks so good. Apple cider vinegar is shown to lower blood glucose levels, which should trigger a light bulb over the heads of anyone who is struggling with diabetes – especially this time of year when the sugary foods are difficult to avoid if you don’t live in a cave. Or even if you do live in a cave, since most places deliver. Other functional benefits have included relief and prevention of gas, bloating, indigestion and heartburn. You’ve used it in salad dressings (ever had Italian dressing?), you’ve heard it’ll make your hair shiny (like in a hair commercial) and you may have even read that it’s a great substitute for non-toxic cleaning sprays (just don’t add your previous cleaners to a vinaigrette), but the natural health world is ecstatic about the positive effect apple cider vinegar has on weight and health maintenance. Low doses are suggested for weight management – for example, a tablespoon taken as a shot before a meal or mixed with a cup of grapefruit juice and a teaspoon of honey before lunch and dinner. You could also add a splash to herbal tea … and maybe even swirl it with a cinnamon stick. Higher doses have shown to cause lower potassium levels or esophageal burning, because as with most things, you can have too much of a good thing. It will effect insulin levels, so if you’re being medicinally regulated, consult your physician about your new vinegar venture. ‘Tis the season for unhealthy foods, but it’s not the season to neglect your health. (That’s Spring Break, right?) This semi-sweet, pungent liquid may be just what you need to look ironically hot at your ugly sweater party – and an amber-colored secret to a healthier 2014.

For more information, visit www.mandyashcraft.com.

apple cider vinegar bottles image Wiktory/shutterstock.com

NSIDE health & wellness

Recovery Isn’t Simply a Goal, It’s Our Mission.

Kindred Healthcare understands that when people are discharged from a traditional hospital, they often need continued care in order to recover completely. That’s where we come in.

Doctors, case managers, social workers and family members don’t stop caring simply because their loved one or patient has changed location. Neither do we.

Kindred offers services including aggressive, medically complex care, intensive care and shortterm rehabilitation.

Come see how we care at www.continuethecare.com.

Dedicated to Hope, Healing and Recovery

CONTINUE THE CARE 6226 Saratoga Blvd · Corpus Christi, Texas 78414 · 361-986-1600 www.khcorpuschristi.com N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

NSIDE health & wellness

All About Function One Fit Culture: our goals, our mission and a few things you can do to improve both your own health and the health of the next generation By: [Brent Norman] We are dedicated to promoting, accelerating and producing the spread of wellness throughout our community through showcasing the triumphs of our people, the skill sets of our peers and the effect it has on our future. I am Brent Norman from One Fit Culture, and I am Strong First kettlebell coach at the Hardstyle Kettlebell Club. I want to address a few nutrition additions to your diet and supplements that can minimize chances of diabetes.

Here are six tips for what to do and what not to do in your eating habits when you have onset diabetes: 1] This is one of the times that a Paleolithic-type diet would be very beneficial. Try to minimize or even exclude grains and dairy from your diet, especially when they’re low quality. You can replace milk with almond milk, keeping your alkaline levels higher so you have a little more natural energy throughout the day. 2] If you’re going to use a sweetener, maybe in your coffee or tea, you can try natural honey for various breakfast items like Greek yogurt or in the worst case, pancakes. Exchange sugar and use Stevia to control your glycemic level. We need to keep the glycemic index level low. Since sugar is what the glycemic index is based on, with a level of 100 out of 100, let’s keep it around 50 on the index as best as possible. 3] Replace grains with various nuts or a few slices of avocado so that you have a healthy, natural fat paired with your protein. This ensures that any carbs you run into at the dinner table can be absorbed more efficiently. Try to keep your various rice, pastas and potatoes at lunchtime, and don’t forget to back up your meal with at least one veggie. 4] Try to eat your fruit before noon and switch to vegetables after that. Some of the better fruits to choose for diabetes are grapefruits; cherries; all berries; nice, tart apples; and firm, ripe pears. 5] Check for high-fructose syrup. It is the leading developer of diabetes and it raises LDL cholesterol levels. It is also the leading source of calories in America. 6] Finally, please stop eating fried, greasy, processed food and replace juices and sodas with water. Your family needs you; respect your family and the $24 million machine you’re walking around in.

Part 2: Simple Supplementation

These are some awesome useful supplements to take that would benefit a diabetic and aim to re-

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mom and daughter image YanLev/shutterstock.com

» First: Diet!

verse the process. This is all about function. As long as the body is functioning as smoothly as possible, you are doing your job – at least part of it. A quality, potent, pharmaceutical-grade multivitamin will give your body the basics that our food industry is sadly doing little to provide. With diabetes, the body must function as efficiently as possible, and when it comes to eating, the liver has one of the most important roles. To make sure the liver is given every chance to break

with growing older. By all means, bone density does decline over time, but just imagine if there was a lack of vitamin D during our development. Vitamin D deficiency affects the most important systems of the body, including the functions of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It affects you from your core all the way to the skin. Vitamin D works with calcium to improve and preserve bone density. Having healthy values of

High-fructose syrup is the leading developer of diabetes, and it raises LDL cholesterol levels. these nutrients also promotes the function of down nutrients to the best of its ability, a potent, muscle contraction. Vitamin D has been shown to pharmaceutical-grade support formula would be ideal. In the most quality formulas, look for a short, improve lung function and protect from cardiovasefficient ingredient list – in this case, a blend of milk cular disease. From all of the research that has been coming thistle, lipoic acid, N-Acetyl cysteine and turmeric out, vitamin D is being labeled a hormone. Every would be key. cell needs vitamin D to function properly. It has I have had people tell me, “Brent, I do take a fish even been shown to keep glucose levels in the oil!” And I ask, “But is it of good quality?” And they renormal range. With someone spond, “The label says it’s of the battling diabetes to athletes, best quality.” Here are two easy we can all benefit from a qualways to test to see if your omeity source of 2,000 IUs of vitamin gas are of quality or if they’re D daily. It has been shown that watered down with fillers: vitamin D helps with recovery 1] Place your capsule of from workouts for the muscles choice in the freezer overnight. to function. It should not be frozen solid in Do not be afraid of some sun! the morning. If it is, there are Vitamin D is among the most fillers. important nutrients, and it is 2] Take a Styrofoam cup and less expensive than you think. empty the capsule into the botThere is a major deficiency in tom of the cup. In 10 to 15 minour society, and it’s even more utes, the essential fatty ACID We are one. We are fit. Join our rampant with our children. should pretty much eat through culture! For more information, Limit the indoor activities and the bottom. If it doesn’t, rethink videos and upcoming events, visit get the kiddos outdoors for at your supplement quality. www.onefitculture.com or www. least 30 minutes a day. Do not Make an effort to keep probihardstylekettlebell.com, or call smother high levels of SPF on otics and perhaps a quality fiber 830-522-0122. them before play; this blocks supplement around. We want things running smoothly and staying clean when it the absorption of the types of sun exposure they comes to digestion. Probiotics have been shown to need. SPF-15 will be fine; just be sure to reapply during long bouts of play. If you have certain issues improve brain function – the brain-gut connection. that need alternate care, do as instructed by your Vitamin D: The Hormone health care provider. This is a rundown on the importance of vitamin D and the roles it plays in your body. It assists in so Gratitude many vital functions and systems in the body. It I would like to give a special thank you to Linda Watson and Edward Picha, Mary Elliott and all of must be supplemented. Partly to do with the declining food industry, nutrients like vitamin D are team ESI for teaching me so much and helping me needed in much larger quantities than the recom- get here in life. Also to my partners, Dominic Olivares mended daily values of the 1950s. and Sean D. Olivares, for helping me fuel our moveVitamin D primarily is important early on. Bement and company, One Fit Culture. Thank you to cause of the rampant indoor lifestyle, paired with Hector Gutierrez, owner of the Hardstyle Kettlebell the atrocious food choices and their availability, Club, for always being a leader. And lastly, thank you our kids are at risk. It’s been said that osteoporosis to Adrian Garza, Elena Flores, Amanda Villarreal and is more a childhood problem when we associate it all of the NSIDE magazine staff for all that you do.

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FULLY LICENSED & INSURED ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS COMPANY

www.ccliquor.com23 N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

new tricks

Gluten consumption and the rise of celiac disease By: [Miguel Castro]

Mother Nature is the cause of many natural disasters in the world, including tornados, hurricanes, tsunamis, volcano eruptions, earthquakes, etc. Correspondingly, she has another trick up her sleeve that may affect one out of every 150 to 200 adults in the United States who consume food that contains gluten. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. Those who are negatively affected by the consumption of gluten may be affected by a condition called celiac disease.

» What is celiac disease? Celiac disease – otherwise known as glutensensitive enteropathy, gluten-induced enteropathy, non-tropical sprue and celiac sprue – is an inherited autoimmune gluten-related disorder known to affect all races with categorization of malabsorption within the gastrointestinal tract, causing chronic inflammation of the small intestinal mucosa membrane, villous atrophy and crypt hyperplasia. Celiac disease occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to gluten or gliadin-containing food consumption due to the loss of tolerance to gluten peptides in genetically vulnerable individu-

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als. The primary treatment for patients with celiac disease is lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet with dietary limitations that can often be difficult to follow. Celiac disease is recognized to be universal and spreading continuously in the population, making it four times more common today in relevance to 50 years ago. What’s unfortunate is that celiac disease may also appear in children. The importance of making the diagnosis in patients with symptoms has two aspects to it. Firstly, symptoms can be comforted by dietary manipulation, thus resulting in the improvement of the patient’s well-being and athletic performance. And secondly, diagnosis can prevent or reduce complications of the disease, which is chiefly associated with malabsorption. With celiac disease rapidly expanding within the population, it’s vital for health and fitness professionals to have a basic understanding of the condition.

» How celiac disease works In order to protect the body from celiac disease, the immune system causes mediated inflammation

of the villi upon detection of gluten. The villi are tiny fingerlike projections lined up with the surface of the small intestine that absorb nutrients from food. Once this occurs, the inflammation of the villi leads to flattening, causing effective impairment of the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and other nutritional deficiencies. In addition, there may be complete villous atrophy, crypt hyperplasia and lymphoplasma cellular occurring in the intestinal lamina propria. In spite of physiological changes in the small intestines, the overall thickness of the mucosa remains the same; however, the villous-to-crypt ratio reduces as the villi become shorter. Although celiac disease’s key effect is on the gastrointestinal tract, it is really a multisystem disease due to the inability to absorb nutrients. Other than gastrointestinal complications occurring with gluten activity present in an individual with celiac disease, the esophagus may also be affected, causing the acidic sensation of heartburn. Although the esophagus isn’t known to be a target organ sensitive to gluten, participation of the esophageal mucosa should be taken into perspective. In contrast, mucosal lesions have been reported in the rectums of patients, so it’s possible that gluten can pass through the esophageal epithelium and tight junctions of the cell walls, causing escalation in the cellular permeability to water, electrolytes, acid and irregular tissue resistance, consequently giving rise to heartburn. Beyond those mentioned, the harmful disease has been shown to have effects on the blood, brain, bones, nervous system and skin. Also, if celiac disease is left untreated, a number of other life-threatening health conditions may transpire such as neurological disorders, early onset osteopenia and osteoporosis and intestinal cancer. According to Jennie McCary, a study revealed that individuals with undiagnosed celiac disease are approximately four times more likely to have died over a 45-year period than subjects without the disease. Now, if you’re an individual who is not glutensensitive or who does not contain celiac disease, it is honestly unnecessary to search and shop for gluten-free products. However, if you live with someone who is affected by this unfortunate disease, I would highly advise you to only buy gluten-free products.

Source: McCary, J. (2010). Celiac disease, diet and lifestyle. IDEA Fitness Journal, 7, 56-59. For more information about the gluten-free diet for the general population or athletes, please contact Miguel Castro, M.S., at miggiecast13@ gmail.com or 361-6339371.

bread image alaettin yildirim/shutterstock.com

NSIDE patient

When you think of physical therapy... you most likely think of our ability to

treat the standard musculoskeletal injuries or conditions such as strains, sprains, low back pain, neck, shoulder, elbow, hand, hip, knee, ankle, and foot pain, etc.,

...but did you know Humpal P.T. also has programs for:

• Pregnancy (Pre/Post Natal Care) • Diabetes • Fall Prevention • Neuropathy

• Cardiovascular Therapy • Osteoarthritis • Vertigo (dizziness) • Osteoporosis

• Athletic Rehab (Sport Specific) • Thoracic-Outlet Syndrome • Orthotic Evaluation/Fabrication • Pre-Op/Post-Operative Therapy

We have a program for you if you are unable to perform your activities of daily living due to pain or limited range of motion.

We will put you back in the Game of Life!

4500 sq.ft.Gym - Corpus Christi location

46’x 20’Indoor Pool - Corpus Christi location

All 6 locations offer carefully designed and supervised exercise programs in State of the Art gyms and Large Indoor Heated Pools.

Medicare, Medicaid, Workers Compensation, and most insurances accepted.

If you have a condition that is causing you pain or concern, ask your Doctor for a prescription to Humpal P.T., or stop by any of our locations to request a FREE physical therapy Screening to determine if your condition can benefit from physical therapy.

Humpal Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Centers

w w w. H u m p a l P h y s i c a l T h e r a p y. c o m w w w. F a c e b o o k . c o m / H u m pa l P T

Corpus Christi, 5026 Deepwood Cir., 361-854-2278 Calallen, 4040 Five Points Rd., 361-241-7399 Alice, 1302 E. 5th St., 361-664-9675 Portland, 114 Lang Rd. 361-643-8243 Aransas Pass, 2150 W. Wheeler Ave., 361-758-5199 Rockport, 1811 Broadway (aka Fulton Beach Rd.), 361-729-8777

6 Locations • 120 Employees • One Philosophy- Provide the Best Ncare! S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

NSIDE patient

A New Level of Care The state-of-the-art Alter-G anti-gravity treadmill debuts at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South.

By: [Steven Alford]

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Those who try it say it feels like they’re walking on air or bouncing on a trampoline – anything but running. But the new Alter-G anti-gravity treadmill means more than just fun for rehab patients at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South; it means an exciting new way to get back into shape after an injury or surgery. That’s because the high-tech piece of equipment, standard for just about any professional sports team’s locker room, uses air-filled cushions and advanced computers to control how much weight patients place on their legs and joints. For those who are working to build back muscles or using a new hip for the first time, that means an easier way to get back into a fit walking or running routine. “This is going to get you right where you need to be faster and safer,” said Mike Perez, rehab manager. “It allows us to control just how much weight a patient places on their legs, ankles and feet.” The hi-tech treadmill works by cushioning runners in a “bubble of air,” which

they fit into. The cushion can be adjusted by rehab associates to allow for weight limits depending on doctors’ orders. “It’s kind of hard to tell someone, ‘You need to be walking with 50 percent of your body weight,’” Perez said. “But now it’s easier for us to make that happen for our patients.” The space-age technology means runners can train more easily for marathons, older patients can walk without risk of injury to their joints and obese patients can workout without the limitations of their weight getting in the way. “I feel like I’m barely running,” said the hospital’s chief operating officer, Mark Casanova, during a demonstration for television crews during an unveiling of the Alter-G treadmill. “This really makes a difference in how long you can go.” While not the first in South Texas, it is the first Alter-G treadmill for CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, bringing a new level of care to rehab patients. What makes it even more special is the fact that the piece of equipment was made possible

photo by steven alford

Rehab Services Manager Mike Perez explains the new $38,000 Alter-G anti-gravity treadmill at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus ChristiSouth, made possible by donations from hospital volunteers.

photo by steven alford

CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus ChristiSouth COO Mark Casanova tries out the new Alter-G anti-gravity treadmill, which makes it easier for patients to work injured muscles back to health.

“The treadmill allows us to control how much weight patients place on their legs, ankles and feet.” through more than $38,000 in donations from the hospital’s volunteers. CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South worked diligently to raise enough money to pay for the treadmill, providing higher-quality care to those who need it most. “We’re all very proud that we were able to purchase this piece of equipment,”

said Patsy Coleman, president of the hospital’s volunteer organization. “It is a remarkable addition to our hospital.”

To learn more about CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, visit www.christusspohn.org. N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

NSIDE senior care

‘Successful Aging in Action’ Mirador residents thrive under the nationally known Masterpiece Living program.

By: [Cory Houdmann]

N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

Everyone wants to live a long and happy life. In an ideal world, we would know exactly how to make that happen and be able to scientifically track data to ensure we were aging well. Mirador, Corpus Christi’s only full-service senior living community, is making that ideal world a bit more real by offering this nationally known program: Masterpiece Living. The program assesses physical health, social engagement, meaning and purpose, intellectual challenge, health risks and mobility of the residents. The program launched in 2012, and the annual results are positive. The residents participated in research-based programs that focus on those particular areas. Both the residents and the community tracked the residents’ progress over the past year. The research this program provides is constantly being updated and it continually helps increase the program’s accuracy and goal of helping everyone age successfully. This exciting, innovative and personalized program makes for the basis of a new culture of senior care to help all people take control of their aging destinies and age well overall. Based on a decade’s worth of studies on aging, with an

emphasis on the MacArthur Mirador Foundation Study on Aging, residents get fit Masterpiece Living has deduring daily pool termined that much more exercises. is possible the older we get. The study by the MacArthur Foundation shattered the stereotypes of aging. Through the study, it was determined that 70 percent of physical aging and 50 percent of mental aging is determined by life-

style. If a person makes the right decisions, aging can actually be a time of growth instead of a period of decline. Mirador is a community where residents go to grow and try new things, whether it’s participate in a yoga class for the first time or join an art class. Mirador is the only senior living community in the region to offer Masterpiece Living. The Masterpiece Living program enables staff at Mirador to develop a customized program for each resident, based on a preliminary lifestyle review that benchmarks where they currently are in all four areas necessary to maintain balance: physical, intellectual, social and spiritual. Mirador staff received Masterpiece Living training from a team of multispecialty consultants when the community adopted the program more than a year ago. This training allows staff members to customize a development plan for each resident individually based on the outcomes they want to actualize in each life area. The 2012-13 results show that Mirador residents are overall more healthy and happy when compared to the Masterpiece Living network, as well as the national norm for seniors. Falling is always a concern for seniors and their families. Mirador averaged 23 percent of residents with one or more falls, compared to 32 percent for the Masterpiece Living network and 33 percent for the national norm. That is worth noting since the average medical cost per fall is $19,440, as reported by the CDC in 2012. While physical health is vital to living longer, being spiritually fulfilled is also a key component of healthy aging. The results show that more than half of the residents surveyed volunteer on a regular basis. The state of Texas estimates that one hour of volunteering is worth $22.57. Multiply that by the national average of two hours per week that an individual volunteers, and the conclusion can be made that Mirador residents contributed approximately $51,640.16 to the Corpus Christi community last year. In all cases from physical diet to intellectual stimulation, residents are encouraged to adopt the healthiest approaches based on outcomes that motivate them such as greater independence, improved functionality and overcoming chronic conditions. Located in the heart of South Corpus Christi, Mirador is the area’s only full-service life care senior living community. The community includes 125 customized independent living apartment homes, each with a fully equipped kitchen, washer and dryer and 24-hour emergency response system. The Plaza consists of 44 private assisted living suites, 41 private rooms for dignified nursing care and 18 private Alzheimer’s certified residences for memory support. Designed to enrich the lives of seniors, Mirador features 25,000 square feet of commons areas on a lush 17-acre campus with a premier location close to local restaurants, shops and attractions.

Cory Houdmann is the director of sales and marketing at Mirador. For further information on Mirador and The Plaza at Mirador, please call 361-288-7027 or visit www.miradorretirement.com.

PARAGON BRAZILIAN JIU-JIUTSU also offers classes in Mixed Martial Arts

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style substance and

Jennifer Pulido Martinez, RN, CPN

hair & makeup by: josh and co. wardrobe by: leâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;vu boutique D MD 30 N S I D E C O A S T A L B E Nby: photography dustin ashcraft

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Quote to Live By

“Never be bullied into silence, never allow yourself to be made a victim, accept no one’s definition of your life – define yourself.” – Harvey Fierstein

My Philosophy

Do good, love and respect one another, love your life, put God above everything and pray.

About Me

Born and raised in Corpus Christi, I am proud to call it home. I work as a registered nurse at Driscoll Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital, and I graduated from Del Mar College in 1998. My desire to work with children led me to become a pediatric nurse and hope to advance my career path as a family or pediatric nurse practitioner and serve my community. I am currently working on my masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in nursing for family nurse practitioner at Texas A&M University-CC, and I plan to graduate in May 2014. I have two beautiful daughters and hope to set an example that through hard work, discipline and determination, they can achieve their dreams and fulfill their goals.

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Nueces

MoNuMeNts “Creating Everlasting Memories” OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Specializing in: • BENCHES • MONUMENTS • MARKERS • BRONZES

• SOLAR LIGHTS • DATES OF DEATH • PICTURES & VASES

STAY IN THE KNOW! “LIKE” US ON FACEBOOK

Hablamos Español

Find us on Facebook

Layaway Available / No Interest Payment Plans Accepted By All Cementeries / Home Appointments Available

~361.452.2366~ 2501 S.P.I.D, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78415 WWW.NUECESMONUMENTS.COM

Monday-Friday: 8:00am-6:00pm • Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

www.GETNSIDE.com

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Our Services Shipping • UPS • FedEx US Postal Service • DHL Packaging Supplies • Notary Mailbox Rental • Stamps B&W Copies • Color Copies Passport Photos • Key Cutting Faxing Services • Gifts Office Supplies • Moving Supplies Greeting Cards • Laminating Binding • Printing & Much More! Located in the HEB Center (Next to Blockbuster)

6537 S. Staples St., Ste 125 Corpus Christi, TX 78413

Phone: 361-992-9323 Email: pa12004@postalannex.com Website: www.postalannex.com/12004 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-6pm, Sat 9:30am-3pm Extended Hours:

From December 8th thru December 22nd Open Sundays from 1pm-3pm

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Andrés Gonzalez Vocalist and violinist of Mariachi Vargas

In Concert ®

Invites you to experience a night of mexico’s greatest music!

Sat., Oct. 12 • American Bank Center Selena Auditorium • 7:30pm

Purchase tickets today at Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000. More at mariachimusic.com or 210.225.3353. 40

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WE HAVE YOUR

FAMILY FUN!

1314 SPID, Corpus Christi 361-814-8770

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NSIDE MAGAZINE N S I D E C O A S TA L B E N D M D

St. Peter’s Home Health, Inc. Certified by Medicare in 2005 and accredited by Community Health Accrediation Program in 2010

SERVICES PROVIDED:

SKILLED NURSING / HOME HEALTH AIDE SPEECH THERPY / PHYSICAL THERAPY OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY / MEDICAL SOCIAL SERVICE

Registered Nurse and Referral Intake available 24/7

OTHER SERVICES:

LAB WORK / COLOSTOMY CARE / CATHETER CARE / WOUND CARE / INJECTIONS / PORTABLE X-RAYS INTRAVENOUS THERAPY / WOUND VAC THERAPY

1801 East Main St., Ste. A Alice, Texas 78332 Office: 361.664.7001 | 1.877.279.7710 | Fax: 361.664.7727 COUNTIES SERVED: Brooks, Duval, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Nueces, Bee, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Kenedy, Live Oak, Starr, Webb, Zapata, Cameron, Willacy, Aransas and San Patricio.

You have a choice We understand that YOU HAVE A CHOICE when it comes to your rehabilitative care. At Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital (CCRH) we value teamwork and are connected at our core by the treatment needs of our patients. We are proud to be a freestanding acute rehabilitation hospital serving Corpus Christi, providing attentive and compassionate patient care to the community in which we serve.

CCRH is now part of the Ernest Health network of facilities. Eight of Ernest’s rehabilitation hospitals have consistently ranked in the 10% of Inpatient Rehab Facilities in the United States by UDSMR®. Ernest Health strives for all their hospitals to receive this recognition.

Brain Injury • Amputations • Stroke • Neuro • Orthopedic

To learn more NSID E C Oabout A S T A L CCRH B E N D and M D our services, visit our website at 44

CCRH.ernesthealth.com

Formerly Esplanade Rehab Hospital 5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Christina Kubala Velazquez Owner + Instructor

tumbling + cheer prep + adult tumbling + toddler tumbling + todder cheer prep Private tumbling/ cheer lessons + Hip hop dance class + Competitive cheer teams ages 4-18 + College competitive cheer teams 6801 Weber Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (B) 361.334.2774 (C) 361.774.0112 /// AdvancedCheerAndAthletics@gmail.com

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