LivingWell-April2012

spot a rattlesnake?

that support an active lifestyle LW7: What to look for in in-home fitness equipment, including questions to ask

DISCOVER

LW7: What should you do if you

LW3: Nutrition and supplements

UNDERSTAND

LEARN

LW2: Good news regarding coverage for pre-existing conditions

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION CREATED BY REPUBLIC MEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING

THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC

LW4&5: Over 150 listings covering healthcare support groups, classes and events

THISISSUE:Headtotoeinfoaboutyourfeet LookforthenextissueofLivingWella-zon Wednesday,May2,2012.

Topic:Women’s health

HEALTH-CARE NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY

Vol. 2, No. 4 April 2012

NEWS & TRENDS

Innovations. News.What’s new in health-care.

Important information to keep you connected to your health-care community.

toeyour feet

INNOVATIONS

RICK D'ELIA

Head to

Chandler Regional Medical Center, a Dignity Health Member, recently became one of the first hospitals in Arizona to use a newly approved medical device to open narrowed coronary arteries, even in heart disease patients with diabetes.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the Resolute Integrity DrugEluting Stent from Medtronic, which is the first and only heart stent to be FDA-approved for treating patients with coronary artery disease who also have diabetes. Info: MedtronicStents.com and ChandlerRegional.org

info about

Don’t tip-toe around problems Diabetes and feet

BY DEBRA GELBART

Y

our feet aren’t just your means of mobility. Sometimes they can be an important messenger, making you aware of a significant health problem that you didn’t even know existed. For example, brown nails can suggest skin cancer, while an acutely hot, red, painful toe joint is likely to be gout.

In addition, horizontal depressions or deep grooved lines in a toenail can be a sign of a past heart attack, said Kelley Gillroy, D.P.M., a clinical assistant professor at Glendale’s Arizona School of Podiatric Medicine. Gillroy is also a practicing podiatrist at the Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic’s Foot and Ankle Clinic.

JOHN C. LINCOLN

When you can’t feel your feet, you are at greater risk for wounds and infections.

Francisco Rodriguez, M.D., third from left, and Rick Low, M.D., red surgical cap, prep a patient for (belly button) surgery with the da Vinci surgical robot at John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital.

NEWS Banner Desert Medical Center now offers emergency neurologic treatment for stroke patients via a secured video link. Patients now have immediate, around-the-clock access to neurologists through ‘telestroke’, a program managed through a partnership with Specialists on Call, Inc. (SOC), the nation’s leading provider in clinical telemedicine. Utilizing state-of-the-art videoconferencing technology and secure lines of communication, SOC physicians interact directly with hospital physicians, nurses, patients and their families in a manner that closely resembles an in-person bedside consultation. Info: BannerHealth.com The Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare has added a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant program (commonly known as bone marrow transplant) through its new Cancer Transplant Institute. HSC transplants are primarily used to treat patients with aggressive cancers such as myeloma, leukemias and lymphomas. Cancer Transplant Institute patients are referred from all over the Southwest, and the Institute has already seen over 50 patients and performed its first transplant. Info: shc.org

For people with diabetes, foot health is a major concern. Without proper care, diabetes can have devastating consequences for a patient’s feet, Gillroy said. Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) is the result of high blood sugar causing swelling around the lining of nerves leading to nerve entrapment, she explained. Diabetes also causes a decrease in circulation to the nerve.“Together, this causes nerve damage and patients can lose feeling in their feet,” she said.“When you can’t feel your feet, you’re at greater risk for wounds and infections because you can’t feel the high-pressure or traumatized areas of your feet.”

Hannah Furst of Phoenix has adult-onset latent autoimmune diabetes, similar to Type 1 diabetes. To compensate for the numbness in her feet from peripheral neuropathy, she never gets pedicures, sees a podiatrist regularly and is vigilant with self-care to avoid foot injuries. “I always wear shoes,” she said, “even in the pool. I never go barefoot, because I may not be able to feel it if I step on something. Because I’m careful, I’m able to live a perfectly normal life.”

Mark Campbell, M.D., a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle conditions and practices at The CORE Institute in Sun City West, recommends that people with diabetes always wear supportive shoes and examine their feet daily to see if anything has changed. Noticeable changes should be promptly reported to a health professional.

Prone to problems

Kelley Gillroy, D.P.M. and clinical assistant professor at Glendale’s Arizona School of Podiatric Medicine, says that particularly for diabetics, foot health and foot care is extremely important.

CORRECTION: In the March 2012 issue of Living Well a-z, the name of Dr. Anand Gandhi, director of interventional pain management at the Scottsdale location of Laser Spine Institute, was inadvertently misspelled beneath his photo. We sincerely apologize for the error.

Even without a diagnosis of diabetes, foot problems are fairly common, in part because of modern life. Gillroy said high heels, for instance, can lead to a tightening of the Achilles tendon, overload in the ball of the foot, or can create instability of the ankle. “Ideally, high heels should be worn mainly when someone plans to be seated most of the time,” she said.

“Obesity has a direct impact on foot health,” Campbell added, “because it’s harder for your feet to support excess body weight.”

He suggests avoiding foot injuries from exercising by adequately stretching before a workout.

Continued on page 7: Head to Toe

APRIL IS NATIONAL

By The Numbers DONATE LIFE MONTH DID YOU KNOW:

As of March 2012, 113,115 patients nationwide were waiting for a transplant.

Every 10minutes, someone’s loved one is added to the national organ donor waiting list.

In Arizona, 2,184people are waiting for a transplant.

18people in America die every day waiting for a transplant.

In 2011, 28,535 transplants were performed in the U.S.

THINKSTOCK

Two surgeons from Valley Surgical Clinics – Francisco Rodriguez, M.D., FACS, and Rick Low, M.D., FACS – are the first in the Valley and among the first in the nation trained to perform ‘belly button’ gall bladder removals, which they offer to their patients utilizing the da Vinci Si® Robotic Surgical System at John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital. North Mountain is one of only 20 sites in the nation that have been approved for this newest advance in robotic surgery for which Intuitive Surgical, Inc. received FDA-approval in December. The system enables surgeons to reduce the traditional number of laparoscopic incisions from about four to one that is less than an inch in length. Info: JCL.com

To sign up as an organ donor in Arizona, visit AZDonorRegistry.org.

SOURCES: DONATE LIFE AMERICA, DONATELIFE.NET; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, ORGANDONOR.GOV; DONOR NETWORK OF ARIZONA, DNAZ.ORG

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HealthSouth Valley of the Sun Rehabilitation Hospital 13460 N. 67th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85304 623 878-8800 Fax 623 334-5360 healthsouthvalleyofthesun.com ©2011:HealthSouth Corporation:473726

2 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, April 4, 2012

VITAL SIGNS

Good news regarding pre-existing conditions

3 things to consider

about PCIP eligibility

According to Glen Spencer, benefits assistance program director for the Area Agency on Aging, Region One, to be eligible for enrollment in PCIP, an applicant:

Affordable Care Act offers important coverage options

BY DEBRA GELBART

U

ntil about a year and a half ago, it was nearly impossible for Americans with a pre-existing medical condition to obtain individual health insurance without any restrictions.

But since then, the Affordable Care Act has given millions of Americans with a pre-existing condition who have been uninsured an important option.

The pre-existing condition provisions of the Affordable Care Act, which went into effect in September 2010, address two populations: those under age 19 and those who are over age 19.

1.Must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident

2.Must submit a signed physician’s

statement attesting that they have a pre-existing medical condition

3.Must not have had other health

THINKSTOCK.COM

insurance for at least six months prior to applying for PCIP

‘Guaranteed issue’

For those under age 19, private health insurance is now considered ‘guaranteed issue,’ meaning that no one under 19 can be denied a private health insurance policy because of a pre-existing medical condition.

“Before this part of the law took effect,” said Janis Raynak, associate general counsel at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, “many insurance companies would require a waiting period for someone to receive benefits for a pre-existing condition. But now a company no longer can impose any kind of waiting period.”

Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Program

For anyone age 19 and over, the government has set up PCIP, or the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Program, a temporary program designed as a bridge until all of the provisions of the Affordable Care Act take effect on Jan. 1, 2014, assuming the legislation is upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. The U.S.

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) runs PCIP in the District of Columbia and 23 states including Arizona. In 27 states, a state or nonprofit entity runs it.

On the first day of 2014, PCIP will cease to exist and in its place will be health insurance exchanges, which will enable individuals and small businesses to get federal subsidies to help purchase private health insurance. At that point, private insurance companies will not be able to deny coverage to anyone with a pre-existing medical condition. Also on that date, those with pre-existing conditions whose incomes are at or below 133 percent of the federal poverty level will be eligible for AHCCCS coverage in Arizona. If they don’t qualify for AHCCCS today, PCIP is an option for them.

Enrollment climbing

HHS has reported that PCIP enrollment climbed nearly 400 percent between November 2010 and November 2011 and

the program received about 8,000 new applications per month from August 2011 through November 2011. In Arizona, “there has been a significant increase in enrollment so far this year,” said Glen Spencer, benefits assistance program director for the Area Agency on Aging, Region One. The premiums are considered competitive, ranging from $157 a month for ages 19 to 34 to as much as $450 a month for those 55 and over. The medical deductible is approximately $2,000 per individual per year, Spencer said, depending on the plan you choose.

“Before these provisions took effect, there were some Americans who were unable to get health insurance because of pre-existing conditions,” Raynak said. “Now For more information: they can, and no matter how someone • Enrolling in PCIP: pcip.gov feels about the rest of the Affordable Care Act, it’s hard to debate that people with a • Health insurance coverage pre-existing medical condition should be for those under 19: cciio.hhs.gov/resources/files/factsheet.html able to have access to health insurance.”

Look for Livingwell a-z on the first Wednesday of each month!

Each month, we bring you local health information you can use to keep you and your family living well.

From A to Z, we tackle a broad range of health issues and offer tips for keeping your health-care costs in check. This publication is produced by Republic Media Custom Publishing. For questions concerning any content included in this publication please contact: Editor Paula Hubbs Cohen, Paula.Cohen@cox.net or call 602-444-8658.

A division of The Arizona Republic.

200 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

General Manager: CAMI KAISER, ckaiser@republicmedia.com Manager Creative Development: ISAAC MOYA, imoya@republicmedia.com Editor: PAULA HUBBS COHEN, Paula.Cohen@cox.net Contributing Editor: JIM WILLIAMS, jlwilliams@republicmedia.com Managing Art Director: TRACEY PHALEN, tphalen@republicmedia.com Design: SW!TCH s t u d i o Republic Media Intern: JESSICA RUSH Advertising: RHONDA PRINGLE, 602-444-4929, rpringle@republicmedia.com For general advertising inquiries, contact Republic Media at 602-444-8000.

Time to get heart-healthy ArizonaER.com

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EXPERTS CARDIOLOGY Anne-Marie Feyrer-Melk, M.D. Dr. Feyrer-Melk focuses on preventing heart attack and stroke by finding patients’ hidden risk factors and formulating a plan that can significantly decrease and even reverse their risk.The tests she uses are simple and painless, yet they are proven to be astonishingly accurate in their predictive power.

Have you ever considered the connection between bacteria in your mouth and a potential heart attack? With a simple saliva test, patients can learn if they harbor a certain bacterium that boosts their heart attack risk nearly 14 times compared to people who don’t have the germ. And the bacterium can be easily wiped out with appropriate care. Yet without the test---which most doctors don’t provide--patients don’t ever find out they carry the germ and thus never learn about their increased risk for heart attack and stroke.

Heart of Arizona 7700 E. Indian School Rd Ste 2 • Scottsdale 480-941-0800 www.heartofarizona.com

Dr. Feyrer-Melk, a concierge cardiologist, performs a specialized ultrasound test for her patients (called a CIMT) that measures the thickness of the carotid artery in the neck. A slight elevation in the thickness of this artery---often in the absence of plaque deposits---is a better indicator of the risk for a heart attack or stroke than either an EKG or an echocardiogram traditionally used to evaluate patients.

If the CIMT reveals an abnormal finding, simple blood and urine tests can identify “inflammatory biomarkers” linked to even a tiny elevation in carotid artery thickness.

Amazingly, this inflammation can be completely reversed through over-the-counter supplements and prescription medicines, leading to peace of mind for the patient as the risk of heart attack and stroke is drastically reduced.The key is discovering the problem in the first place, and that’s what Dr. Feyrer-Melk emphasizes.

2632 North 20th Street | Phoenix www.azheart.com

WEDNESDAY, April 4, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 3

Certain nutritional supplements may help with some health conditions:

“One of the best things people can do to increase their overall wellness is to make sure they are getting enough water.”

Diabetes:

“Dietary fibers such as glucomannan or psyllium are ideal to supplement your diet. Chromium is a mineral that has been shown to improve overall glucose tolerance in people with diabetes.”

High cholesterol:

“Water soluble fibers like glucomannan, 30 grams of soy, 1.6 grams of plant sterols, 1.2 to 2.4 grams of red yeast rice and 200 to 500 mcg of chromium are some of the nutritional supplements that can help lower cholesterol.”

JENEL DAY, RD, MS, BARIATRIC COORDINATOR AT THE BRIDGES CENTER FOR SURGICAL WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

Supportive nutrition for an active lifestyle

High blood pressure:

“Taking fish oil can help, as can CoQ10.Also,look at ways to lower cortisol levels,watch sodium intake and get enough exercise.”

Supplements can often help, too

BY ALISON STANTON

A

ccording to Rosanna Thill, HiHealth Director of Education, the foundation of a healthy lifestyle consists of three key aspects:

1. good nutrition 2. a daily exercise routine 3. taking selected nutritional supplements

Gauging what you eat

Jenel Day, RD, MS, bariatric coordinator at the Bridges Center for Surgical Weight Management at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Phoenix and at Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital in Tempe, said the new‘MyPlate’, which recently replaced the food pyramid, clearly shows people how much protein and healthy carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, low fat dairy or soy alternatives, and other foods they should have in a 24-hour period.

“It really helps take the guessing work out of what we should be eating,” she said.

People also need to be mindful about beverages and their effect on health, Day noted. She urges everyone to be sure to drink enough liquid, starting out with good old-fashioned H2O. “In general, people often are drinking a lot of soda and other sweetened beverages like sweetened coffee drinks, juices and energy drinks, but not just plain water,” she said.

“Drinking eight glasses a day will help them feel better and help prevent dehydration.”

Arthritis:

Maintaining a balance

While recent dietary trends have urged people to severely curtail or eliminate carbohydrates or other types of foods, Day said that when it comes to nutrition, it’s important to have a balance.

“Completely restricting food groups will not work. For example, we just cannot maintain a diet where all we can eat is a severely restricted list of allowable foods.

A diet like that is too hard to maintain long-term,” she said. “We also want to be sure we are choosing healthy snacks throughout the day. Foods like low-fat cheese, whole grain crackers and fruits and vegetables are great and they help us to not overeat later on.”

For additional information or nutritional tips, Day suggested visiting the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website: choosemyplate.gov.

“In a double-blind study of 50 patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis, researchers from the Department of Medicine at Temple Beth Israel Hospital found a decrease in the number of swollen joints after the patients took Type II collagen for two months.There is also the standard combination of glucosamvine and chondroitin sulfates that can help people with osteoarthritis.”

Weight loss:

“Unfortunately, there is no magic pill for weight loss.There are several nutritional supplements that can help your efforts of eating right and exercising. Many of these supplements have been talked about by Dr. Oz, including raspberry ketone, African mango, 7-Keto, coleus forshkoli, CLA, safflower oil, saffron and many others.”

SOURCE: ROSANNA THILL, HI HEALTH DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

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4 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, April 4, 2012

April

is National Donate Life Month, donatelife.net and organdonor.gov

Be sure and take advantage of our expanded Calendar listings, which includes over 150 opportunities for you to meet others with similar issues and learn more about various aspects of your health – from A to Z. All groups and events are believed, but not guaranteed, to be free unless otherwise stated. Every effort has been made to verify accuracy, but please call before attending to confirm details.

WELLNESS BARIATRIC INFO SEMINAR Various dates & times Banner Gateway 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert 480-543-2606 WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SEMINAR Various dates & times St. Luke’s, Phoenix Tempe St. Luke’s,Tempe 800-248-5553 ENDOCRINOLOGY/THYROID NEWS April 4, 7-8 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Barnes & Noble 10500 N. 90 St., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636 YOGA FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (first class free) Apr. 5 & 19, 1:30-2:15 p.m.

Sports & Fitness Center 5031 E.Washington St., Phx spofit.org; 602-386-4566 JR. WHEELCHAIR TENNIS Apr. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Sports & Fitness Center 5031 E.Washington St., Phx spofit.org; 602-386-4566 ADULT WHEELCHAIR TENNIS Apr. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Sports & Fitness Center 5031 E.Washington St., Phx spofit.org; 602-386-4566 RELIEF FOR LEG & FOOT CRAMPS April 5, 6-7 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) STRESS REDUCTION: TAI CHI, AROMATHERAPY & LAUGHTER April 11, 11 a.m.-noon

By Sun Health atThe Colonnade RecreationVillage 19116 ColonnadeWay, Surprise Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 EPILEPSY: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW April 11, noon-1 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

AMPUTEE CLINIC April 19, 10 a.m.-noon HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-477-7141

APHASIA/STROKE April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 10-11 a.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 9630 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 480-551-5481

COLONOSCOPY: WHAT TO EXPECT April 23, noon-1 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

STROKE April 5, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 13460 N. 67 Ave., Glendale 623-334-5437

PERIODONTAL DISEASE & SYSTEMIC HEALTH April 24, 10-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Fairway Recreation Center 10600W. Peoria Ave., Sun City Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

MENDED HEARTS SUPPORT GROUP April 11, 6:30-8 p.m.

John C. Lincoln DeerValley 19841 N. 27 Ave., Phx 623-879-5765

LASER SPINE INSTITUTE: MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY April 25, 6 p.m. & April 28, 10 a.m.

Laser Spine Institute 8888 E. Raintree Dr., Scottsdale Register: SpineSeminar.com; 866-811-3275 BRAIN FITNESS: A TALK WITH A PERSONAL TRAINER April 26, 10-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Sun CityWest Recreation Center 19803 RH Johnson Blvd, Sun CityWest Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 LASER SPINE INSTITUTE: MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY April 26, noon 12545W. Bell Rd., Surprise Register: SpineSeminar.com; 866-811-3275 AMPUTEE April 30, 6-8 p.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-477-7141

ATRIAL FIBRILLATION: NEW & OLD MEDICATION THERAPY April 4, 10-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Sun CityWest PORA 13815 Camino del Sol, Sun CityWest Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE April 4, 11, 18 & 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 475 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

CAREGIVERS April 4, 10:30 a.m.-noon John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx 602-870-6374

DIABETES April 16, 3-4 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355)

BRAIN INJURY & CAREGIVER April 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Brain Injury Assoc. of AZ HealthSouth Rehabilitation 13460 N. 67 Ave., Glendale 602-508-8024

DERAILING DIABETES April 18, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Desert Foothills Library 38442 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636 DIABETES April 18, 7-8:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-5195 MANAGING DIABETES, MEETING GOALS April 19, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

By Sun Health at La LomaVillage 14154 Denny Blvd., Litchfield Park Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

STROKE April 13, 2:30-4 p.m.

Chandler Regional 475 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler 480-728-3828

ALZHEIMER’S/ DEMENTIA

LIVING WITH HEART VALVE DISEASE April 21, 9 a.m.-noon St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx Register: 877-602-4111

LIVING WITH DEMENTIA April 4 & 11, 10 a.m.-noon Presented by the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church 13658W. Meeker Blvd., Sun CityWest Register: 877-602-4111

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP April 24, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-477-7141

ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS April 5 & 19, 1:30-3 p.m.

Tempe St. Luke’s 1500 S. Mill Ave.,Tempe 877-351-WELL (9355)

STROKE CLINIC April 26, 10 a.m.-noon HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-477-7141

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP (lunch provided) April 15, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

St. Joseph’s Huger Mercy Living Center 2345W. Orangewood Ave., Phx 602-406-5600

ATRIAL FIBRILLATION April 28, 9 a.m.-noon St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx Register: 877-602-4111

DIABETES

HEART/STROKE

DIABETES April 12, 1-2 p.m.

St. Luke’s 1800 E.Van Buren St., Phx 877-351-WELL (9355)

MANAGING DIABETES, MEETING GOALS April 9, 1-2 p.m.

By Sun Health at Banner Olive Senior Center 11250 N. 107 Ave., Sun City Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 INSULIN PUMPERS SUPPORT GROUP April 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx 602-870-6060

SUPPORT GROUPS BRAIN INJURY SURVIVORS April 9, 7-8:15 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 602-406-3333 YOUNG ADULT BRAIN INJURY (survivors age 18-35 & caregivers) April 11, 6-7:30 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 602-508-8024 PAIN April 12 & 26, 6-8 p.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 13460 N. 67 Ave., Glendale 623-334-5437 INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS April 15, 2-4 p.m.

John C. Lincoln North Mountain 250 E. Dunlap Ave., Phx 623-349-4611

LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: CAREGIVER BOOT CAMP April 19, 9 a.m.-noon Presented by the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Desert Palms Presbyterian Church 13459W. Stardust Blvd., Sun CityWest Register: 602-406-4266

BETTER BREATHERS April 18, 1-2 p.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-477-7163

CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS (DUET) Various dates, times & locations 602-274-5022

BETTER BREATHERS April 18, 2-3 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 SYRINGO & CHIARI April 19, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

St. Joseph’s Barrow Neurological Institute 114W.Thomas Rd., Phx 623-561-9606 BIRTH PARENTS April 24, 6-8 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 888-818-4454 BRAIN TUMOR April 24, 6-8 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 623-205-6446

HEARING TESTS April 17, 18 & 19, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

John C. Lincoln Audiologist at Tatum Health Center 18404 N.Tatum Blvd., Phx Appointments: 602-494-6237

BETTER BREATHERS April 26, 1:30-3 p.m.

John C. Lincoln North Mountain 9202 N. Second St., Phx 602-870-6060 CENTRAL PHOENIX BRAIN INJURY April 26, 6-7:30 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 602-508-8024

IS IT MENOPAUSE OR IS IT HOT IN HERE? April 18, 7-8 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Barnes & Noble 10500 N. 90 St., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636

WOMEN WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS April 28, 10 a.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 480-829-6563

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WESTSIDE TREMBLE CLEFS (singing program) April 4, 11, 18 & 25, 10 a.m.-noon

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church 11025 N. 111 Ave., Sun City 602-406-3840 PARKINSON’S DANCE April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 1:30-3 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Brick’s Studio 4550 E. Indian School Rd., Phx 602-406-6903 EASTSIDE TREMBLE CLEFS (singing program) April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4-6 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Granite Reef Senior Center 1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale 602-406-3840 PARKINSON’S MOVEMENT GROUP April 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 & 26, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-477-7141 PARKINSON’S DANCE April 6, 13, 20 & 27, 10-11:30 a.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Elizabeth Keith Movement Education 16620 N. 40 St., Phx 602-406-6903 MO UDALL PARKINSON’S WORKSHOP ($10, includes lunch) April 7, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s St. Joseph’s Goldman Auditorium & OnlineWebcast 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx Register: 602-406-4921 PARKINSON’S CAREGIVERS April 11, 1:30-3 p.m.

By Duet at Church of the Beatitudes 555W. Glendale Ave., Phx 602-274-5022 COMADRES/COMPADRES (Hispanic Parkinson’s support group) April 12 & 26, 3-4:30 p.m.

By the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Desert Cross Lutheran Church 8600 S. McClintock Dr.,Tempe Register: 602-406-4921 COMADRES/COMPADRES (Hispanic Parkinson’s support group) April 13 & 27, 10-11:30 a.m.

By the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Church of Beatitudes 555W. Glendale Ave., Phx Register: 602-406-4921 PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP April 13, 10 a.m.-noon.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s HealthSouth Rehabilitation 9630 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 602-406-3840 PARKINSON’S CAREGIVERS April 20, 10:30 a.m.-noon

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s HealthSouth Rehabilitation 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 602-406-4921

SENIORS ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM Various dates & times MountainVista Medical Center, Mesa Tempe St. Luke’s,Tempe 877-924-WELL (9355)

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MO UDALL PARKINSON’S WORKSHOP ($10, includes lunch) April 4, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph’s Shiloh Community Church 19021 N. 32 St., Phx Register: 602-406-4921

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CAREGIVERS April 25, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

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HUNTINGTON’S April 16, 6-8 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 602-406-4931

HEALTHY CONVERSATIONS ABOUT LIFE & DEATH April 12, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Civic Center Library 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636

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By Duet at Church of the Beatitudes 555W. Glendale Ave., Phx 602-274-5022

EXERCISE FOR OSTEOPOROSIS April 11, 1-2 p.m.

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Appaloosa Library 7377 E. Silverstone Dr., Scottsdale Register: shc.org/events; 480-882-4636

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WEDNESDAY, April 4, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 5

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN (DUET) Various dates, times & locations 602-274-5022 HEALTHY COOKING April 4, 10-11 a.m.

Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 FALL PREVENTION April 4, noon-1 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) BALLROOM DANCE April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 TAI CHI April 6 & 20, 9-10 a.m.

Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 MEDICATION CHECKS April 10, 10-11 a.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355) MEDICATION CHECKS April 10, 10-11 a.m.

Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital 1500 S. Mill Ave.,Tempe 877-351-WELL (9355) MEDICATION SAFETY April 10, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707 HOW DIET AFFECTS YOUR FEET April 12, noon-1 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) HEART ATTACKS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW April 18, noon-1 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) SPRING FLING ICE CREAM SOCIAL April 20, 2:30-4 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) GOODBYE VARICOSE VEINS April 24, noon-1 p.m.

St. Luke’s 1800 E.Van Buren St., Phx 877-351-WELL (9355) PREVENTING SLIPS & FALLS April 26, 10-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Grandview Care Center 14505W. GraniteValley Dr. Sun CityWest Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 GOODBYE VARICOSE VEINS April 26, noon-1 p.m.

Tempe St. Luke’s 1500 S. Mill Ave.,Tempe 877-351-WELL (9355)

CANCER SUPPORT RELAXATION & VISUALIZATION April 4, 9:15-10 a.m.

By Sun Health at Grandview Care Center 14505W. GraniteValley Dr. Sun CityWest Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

TOP Events AMAZING WOMAN: BE YOUR BEST SELF APRIL 5 What: Speakers, food and breakout sessions Where: U.S. Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix Time: 5-8:30 p.m.

Cost: $15; free parking Tickets: 877-602-4111 Sponsored by: St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix Suns & Magellan Health Services TOBACCO CESSATION CLASSES APRIL 5 (8-WEEK SESSION) What: Tobacco cessation classes taught by registered nurse and registered respiratory therapist who are trained tobacco treatment specialists Where: Scottsdale Healthcare Osborn Medical Center, 7301 E. Fourth St., Scottsdale

TEA PARTY (for women with cancer) April 4, 2-4 p.m.

By Face in the Mirror Foundation at St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 480-443-1344 GENTLE YOGA April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4 p.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141 CANCER April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2-3:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 YOGA FOR RECOVERY April 5 & 19, 6-8 p.m.

Co-sponsored byTheWellness Community John C. Lincoln DeerValley 19841 N. 27 Ave., Phx 602-712-1006 CAVE CREEK SUPPORT GROUP April 6, 10 a.m.-noon Topic: In-home care: Be a smart consumer

By Scottsdale Healthcare at Good Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church 6502 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek 480-488-3283 MORNING MEDITATIONS April 9, 16, 23 & 30, 9:30 a.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141 CHAIR YOGA April 9, 16, 23 & 30, 10 a.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141 PROSTATE April 9, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph’s 350W.Thomas Rd., Phx 602-242-3131 LIVING & COPING WITH CANCER April 10, 4 p.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141

Time: Thursdays, 5-6 p.m.

Cost: Free Register: 480-882-4636; shc.org; comara@shc.org CAREGIVER RETREAT APRIL 14 What: Relaxing activities, food and presentations Where: Sponsored by Duet at Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley Time: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Cost: $12 includes lunch Register: 602-274-5022, Ext. 43 ALCOHOLISM & TREATMENT April 17 What: How can you tell if someone is abusing alcohol? What treatments are available for alcoholism?

Where: Glendale Foothills Library, 19055 N. 57 Ave., Glendale Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

SPANISH-SPEAKING April 10, 6-7:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4073

Info: universityrelations@ midwestern.edu; 623-930-3868 Presented by: Presented by Pamela Potter, Ph.D., Chair, Pharmacology, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine INFANT CPR CLASS APRIL 21 What: Learn how to treat foreign-body airway obstruction of an infant Where: St. Joseph’s Learning Institute, 3115 N. Third Ave., Phoenix Time: 10 a.m.-noon Cost: $20 Register: 877-602-4111 Facilitated by: United Phoenix Fire Fighters Association using American Heart Association curriculum

Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633

EXERCISE TO IMPROVE FATIGUE April 18, 4 p.m.

Banner MD Anderson 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert 480-256-4141

GYNECOLOGIC April 10, 7-8:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-5578 COOKING FOR HEALTH April 11, 9-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Grandview Care Center 14505W. GraniteValley Dr. Sun CityWest Register: tinyurl.com/SHCommEd2012; 623-455-5633 ORAL, HEAD & NECK April 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 THYROID April 12, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 CAPS FOR THE CURE (knit/crochet caps for patients) April 16, 1-3 p.m.

Humana Guidance Center 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707

ORAL, HEAD & NECK April 18, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-3627 LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA April 18, 6-7:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

WRITING FOR WELLNESS April 18, 9-11 a.m.

By Sun Health at Grandview Care Center 14505W. GraniteValley Dr. Sun CityWest

COALITION OF BLACKS AGAINST BREAST CANCER April 15, 3-5 p.m.

TheWellness Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phx 602-320-0502 MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH April 17, 6 p.m.

By Banner MD Anderson at Banner Gateway 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert 602-230-2273 EAST VALLEY (EV) YOUNG SURVIVORS (age 40 and under) April 21, 10 a.m.-noon Dynamic Life Coaching Center 1701 S. Mill Ave.,Tempe 480-326-7023

CANCER April 19, 7-8:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4073

CIRCLE OF HELP April 26, 6-8 p.m.

John C. Lincoln 19646 N. 27 Ave., Phx 623-434-2784

BREAST CANCER

UNA REUNION (Latino Cancer OutreachTask Force) April 17, 6-7:30 p.m.

UA Cancer Center at St. Joseph’s 500W.Thomas Rd., Phx 602-567-7640

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP April 10, 7-8:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-5578

ESOPHAGEAL April 19, 6-7:30 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx esophagealcancersupportphoenix.com; 602-839-4970; 602-264-0240

PROSTATE April 23, 7-9 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-4073

PROSTATE April 16, 4-5:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414

COMMUNITY CARDIAC HEALTH SCREENING APRIL 21 What: Screening for peripheral artery disease Where: Gavilan Peak Family Practice, Anthem Health Center, 3648 W. Anthem Way, Anthem Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Cost: First 27 appointments at no charge; additional screenings $55 Also: Screenings for carotid artery disease or abdominal aortic aneurysm, $55 each Appointments: 602-368-0458

NEWLY DIAGNOSED April 5 & 19, 6-8 p.m.

Co-sponsored byTheWellness Community John C. Lincoln 19646 N. 27 Ave., Phx 602-712-1006; kwisdom@twccaz.org YOUNG SURVIVAL COALITION April 10, 6-8 p.m.

John C. Lincoln 19646 N. 27 Ave., Phx 602-712-1006; kwisdom@twccaz.org

BREASTFEEDING April 5, 6-9 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx WOMEN’S SERVICES UNIT TOURS April 5 & 19, 7 p.m.

MountainVista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa 877-924-WELL (9355) BREASTFEEDING April 6, 13, 20 & 27, 10 a.m.

Mercy Gilbert 3555 S.ValVista Dr., Gilbert 480-728-5414 OB ORIENTATION April 9, 17, 21 & 30, 6 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Banner Gateway 1900 N. Higley Road, Gilbert 602-230-2273 BABY CARE CLASS April 9, 6-8:30 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION April 10, 17 & 24, 10-11:30 a.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-5292

PARENTING/KIDS BREASTFEEDING April 4, 11, 18 & 25, 11 a.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION April 4, 11, 18 & 25, 1-2:30 p.m.

Chandler Regional 1875W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5414 BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 1-2:30 p.m.

Banner Desert 1400 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa 480-412-3035

NURSING MOMS April 10, 10:30 a.m.-noon Banner Del E.Webb 14502W. Meeker Blvd.

Sun CityWest 800-230-CARE (2273) PRENATAL CLASS - SERIES April 10, 17 & 24, 6-9 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx OB ORIENTATION - TOUR April 21, 5:30-7 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx PRENATAL CLASS – ONE DAY April 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phx

WEBSITES FOR MORE INFORMATION • Abrazo Health Care (Arizona Heart Hospital, Arizona Heart Institute, Arrowhead Hospital, Maryvale Hospital, Paradise Valley Hospital, Phoenix Baptist Hospital,WestValley Hospital): abrazohealth.com • Banner Health: bannerhealth.com • Cardon Children’s Medical Center: bannerhealth.com • Chandler Regional Medical Center: ChandlerRegional.org • Duet, Partners in Health & Aging: duetaz.org • HealthSouth Rehabilitation: healthsouth.com

• • • • • • • • •

Humana: humana.com John C. Lincoln Hospital: JCL.com Mercy Gilbert Medical Center: MercyGilbert.org MountainVista Medical Center: mvmedicalcenter.com Scottsdale Healthcare: shc.org St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center: stjosephs-phx.org St. Luke’s Medical Center, Phoenix: stlukesmedcenter.com Tempe St. Luke’s: tempestlukeshospital.com TheWellness Community-AZ: twccaz.org

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Visit mayoclinic.org/arizona

6 | LIVING WELL A-Z | WEDNESDAY, April 4, 2012 Continued from COVER: Head to Toe

Shoes often the culprit

Additional issues

Another problem in feet is plantar fasciitis, which can affect up to 10 percent of the U.S. adult population each year. It’s caused by overly flat feet or high-arched feet and frequently presents as pain on the bottom of the heel. It is often managed with exercise and lifestyle modification, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Exercises that stretch out the calf muscles can help, as can avoiding going barefoot. When you walk without shoes, you put undue strain and stress on your plantar fascia, the College’s website says.

Icing your heel several times a day and resting feet as much as possible helps reduce inflammation, said Gillroy. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and a slightly raised heel reduces stress on the foot, she noted.

A cortisone injection at the site of the pain can be especially effective against persistent discomfort, Gillroy said, adding that a

Grandpa reaps benefits After being diagnosed with Charcot arthropathy, Glendale resident Ralph Wydra underwent extensive surgery on his right foot. He recovered, but later developed several wounds, one of which didn’t heal properly. Additional surgery was required, and since then, Wydra has lost nearly 100 pounds and has been able to avoid becoming insulin-dependent. Taking better care of himself has allowed him to spend quality time with his 4-year-old granddaughter.

RICK D'ELIA

Gillroy said shoes with a narrow toe-box that confines the forefoot can worsen tendencies toward two foot conditions: bunions and neuromas.

A bunion, which can be genetic, is a bony protrusion around the big toe joint near the base of the toe. The deformity can be especially pronounced and surgery might seem like the only option. But Gillroy said patients don’t need surgery unless they’re suffering from significant pain. “Custom orthotics can prevent over-pronation while walking and that may be enough to prevent progression of the bunion,” she said. Additionally, shoes may be able to be stretched in the area of the bunion to accommodate the misshapen bone.

A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue.

Anything that causes compression or irritation of the nerve can lead to the development of a neuroma. The most common type is called Morton’s neuroma and it occurs between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms include tingling, burning, numbness or pain, and a feeling that something is inside the ball of the foot itself or inside the shoe near the toes.

It is most often treated conservatively with shoe padding, ice application, orthotic devices, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, not wearing high heels and ensuring that shoes have a wide toe-box.

long-term solution for plantar fasciitis may be prescription orthotics that“force the foot to function in a more neutral position”instead of in a pronated (turned-out) position.

Hammertoe is a bending of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth or fifth toes. This abnormal positioning can put pressure on the toes when wearing shoes.

Hammertoes most commonly are caused by either a muscle or tendon imbalance.

The problem often can be managed with the same conservative measures used for plantar fasciitis and bunions. However, if the hammertoe becomes more rigid or painful, or when an open sore develops, surgery may be needed, Gillroy said.

A patient’s advice

Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes nearly 50 years ago, Glendale resident Ralph Wydra has had challenges with his feet due to the disease, and admits that, for decades, he ignored his doctor’s advice about healthy living. In 2000, he was diagnosed with Charcot arthropathy, where the bones in the foot become weakened and can fracture easily, even without major trauma.

Whether patients confront minor, moderate or severe foot issues, Wydra is convinced it’s vital to listen to your doctor.

“If I had followed my doctor’s advice back when I was first diagnosed with diabetes,” he said, “I might have been able to avoid the problems I’ve had with my feet. But since I’ve gotten better at following doctor’s orders, I’ve been able to improve my situation and have even been babysitting my granddaughter for the past four years.

You just have to make up your mind that you’re going to take care of yourself.”

Which specialist should you choose?

If you find yourself needing foot surgery for bunions, hammertoes, an Achilles tendon rupture or something more complex, should you seek help from a qualified podiatrist (a doctor specially trained to treat the foot and ankle) or a qualified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle surgery?

It’s a question that can be daunting for patients who aren’t familiar with the particulars of each specialty.

Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.)

A doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) attends podiatric medical school for four years and then completes an extensive three-year residency program that focuses on foot and ankle surgery. Today all graduating podiatry students are surgically trained, said Kelley Gillroy, D.P.M., a clinical assistant professor at Glendale’s Arizona School of Podiatric Medicine, part of Midwestern University. Many years ago, it was optional for podiatry students to complete surgical training.

Orthopedic Surgeon

An orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle surgery is a medical doctor (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) who has graduated from medical school, completed a multi-year surgical residency and completed fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery.

“The majority of podiatrists are extensively trained in foot and ankle trauma and reconstructive surgery,” said Anthony Will, D.O., chair of osteo-

pathic medicine at the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine in Glendale and a board-certified family medicine practitioner at Midwestern University’s Multispecialty Clinic.“If a patient prefers an orthopedic surgeon, I always recommend that the patient choose someone who specializes in foot and ankle surgery, rather than a general orthopedic surgeon.”

Ask plenty of questions

Whether you choose a podiatrist or an orthopedic surgeon, don’t hesitate to ask plenty of questions, advises Mark Campbell, M.D., a Sun City West orthopedic surgeon who is fellowship-trained in foot and ankle surgery. After a treatment plan has been presented to you, ask the doctor how often he or she has performed the specific procedure you need and how often the procedure has been successful, and make sure you feel comfortable with the answers.

Don’t be shy about letting the doctor know you want a second opinion.

“Ask the doctor for names of colleagues who you can consider for a second opinion,” Campbell said. “If the doctor recommends against a second opinion, the patient should not stay in that doctor’s care. A reputable, confident doctor always welcomes a second opinion.”

More info • Arizona Podiatric Medical Association: apma.org • American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons: foothealthfacts.org

Time to get healthy!

Take time for your health and join us for Healthy Hours.

DIABETES CLASSES

EXPERTS

Mondays, April 2, 9 & 16, 1:00 - 2:30 pm West Valley Hospital 13677 W. McDowell Rd., Goodyear

Wednesdays, April 4, 11, 18, 1:00 - 2:30 pm Paradise Valley Hospital 3929 E. Bell Rd., Phoenix Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Phoenix Baptist Hospital 2000 W. Bethany Home Rd. Phoenix

$10 HEART SCREENING

Saturday, April 21. 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Arizona Heart Hospital 1930 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix

GYNECOLOGY David Glassman, D.O

To register and view the complete Healthy Hours schedule, visit azhealthyhours.com or call 1.855.292.WELL (855.292.9355)

Screening includes, Blood pressure, Total cholesterol, Blood sugar and Coronary risk factor assessment. For accurate results avoid food and drink (other than water) 6 to 8 hours prior.

With a special interest in laproscopic surgery, Dr. Glassman offers all aspects of gynecologic care. He earned his medical degree at the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ, before completing his internship and residency at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix.A board certified gynecologist, Dr. Glassman is active in a number of professional organizations and continues to teach medical students at his alma mater.

Banner Health Clinic Specializing in Gynecology 4444 N. 32nd Street • Phoenix 602.747.7026 • www.BannerHealth.com/BMG-32ndStreetGyn

FAMILY MEDICINE Minh-Hoang N. Le, M.D. Dr. Le is a family practice physician who provides personalized health care to patients of all ages.A graduate of the University of Kansas School of Medicine, he came to Phoenix to complete his residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. Board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, Dr. Le is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Arizona Academy of Family Physicians.

Banner Health Clinic Specializing in Family Medicine 1300 N. 12th Street • Ste 312 • Phoenix 602.839.0444 • www.BannerHealth.com/BMG-12thStreetFamily

Search for doctors in over 30 medical specialties The Most Respected Phoenix Physicians

CATARACT & REFRACTIVE SURGEON Scott A. Perkins, MD

As a nationally recognized ophthalmologist with Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, Dr. Perkins has performed more than 50,000 cataract surgeries and more than 10,000 vision correction procedures such as LASIK and Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs).As an innovator in the field of ophthalmology, he has participated in over 25 clinical trials for both pharmaceutical and ophthalmic devices.

In addition, Dr. Perkins serves on the Board of Directors for Arizona Visionaries, a donor driven non-profit organization providing cataract surgery and eyeglass fittings in third world countries. He is not only trusted for his surgical talents and modest nature, but is also well known for his compassion and ability to connect with and comfort patients.

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Locations throughout Arizona (800) 966-7000 / www.GoodEyes.com

WEDNESDAY, April 4, 2012 | LIVING WELL A-Z | 7

In-home fitness equipment ASK AN EXPERT

Big results possible at low cost Consider a trainer

Health-care advice QUESTION: What should I do if I spot a rattlesnake?

BY BRIAN SODOMA

Andrew Fodge

B

athing suit season may mean a gym membership for some people, but a lot of folks might opt for an in-home gym instead. The upside to today’s tough times is that prices on new and used fitness equipment tend to be very reasonable. But there is plenty to learn before you buy.

Lots of options

If you’re on a budget, you can find ways to meet your exercise needs without breaking the bank. Simplicity is key according to Kris Birkeland, a sports chiropractor and owner of the Valley’s two Athletic Republic locations.

Birkeland said dumbbells and an exercise ball are great starters that, with a little creativity and just a couple hundred dollars, can help someone safely and inexpensively target many muscle groups.“Machines tend to limit your range of motion, whereas with free weight, you can engage your core (midsection),” he added.

Birkeland also likes doorway-mounted pullup bars and dip bars for upper-body exercises.

They are low-maintenance, low-cost and don’t take up much space. If you’re lucky and happen to have a few thousand dollars to spend, he recommends a dual-cable crossover system, or a functional trainer. The stand-up machines offer virtually any resistance exercise that can target the chest, back, arms and even legs.

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Andrew Fodge, owner of Fitness

by Andrew LLC and a personal trainer for 16 years, believes that a session or two with a trainer can help you get the most out of cable crossover machines as well as free weights.

“People call me out to show them new exercises. It’s really fun to go back later and see the improveDo your homework ment,” he said. Andrew Fodge, owner of Fitness by Andrew “A personal LLC in Scottsdale, suggested that consumers trainer doesn’t first check-out brands and styles of equipment at a local gym before buying their own. need to be The machines at gyms are commercial-grade someone and can be found through online dealers seeing you or other online services, often at a discount. three times These brands tend to also sell higher-grade residential equipment too, Fodge explained. a week Justin Humpal, owner of Sports and Fitness and holding Exchange in Phoenix, said used commercialyour hand.” grade equipment like free weights and cable

machines are a good value. But when it comes to treadmills and elliptical trainers, or machines with motors, electronics and moving parts, consumers should be cautious.“If it’s been in a gym, it’s probably gotten a lot of use and you don’t know how much life is left in it,” he warned.

4 questions

to ask yourself before you buy:

1. Is it a reputable brand?

2. Does the warranty include parts and labor?

3. If it’s a used treadmill or elliptical trainer, what is the mileage?

4. If used, does the price seem

reasonable compared to the price of comparable new machines?

Costs vary

Humpal said that most new treadmills and elliptical trainers cost between $500 and $1,000, whereas used equipment, depending on condition, tends to sell at roughly 40 percent of new retail pricing. He noted that many treadmill and elliptical trainer manufacturers offer one-year frame and motor warranties and only 90 days on parts and labor. Better brands often offer one year on the latter and also an option to extend the warranty.

While used equipment comes at a deep discount, warranties don’t transfer to the new owner, Humpal cautioned. The equipment expert also advises checking a used treadmill’s mileage. A simple phone call or logging onto a manufacturer’s website can instruct a buyer where to look for the information on a specific model.

“It’s one of the first things I show people when they look at a machine. They need to be comfortable with what they’re getting,” Humpal said.

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Answer: Staying aware of your surroundings is the best defense in avoiding a rattlesnake confrontation, especially outdoors. Keep distractions to a minimum; if you’re doing yard work, pay attention to your work area and avoid listening to music on headphones or talking on your cell phone. Keep a phone nearby, however, in case you need to call for help. Also, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for extra protection. If you do see a rattlesnake, simply walk away. Do not approach the snake or try to step around or over it. Generally, a rattlesnake will only bite if it feels threatened, so putting distance between you and the snake is a safe measure.

If you are bitten, move away from the snake as quickly as possible and do not attempt to capture it. Do not apply ice or try to cut the bite or suck out the venom.

Keep blood-flow to the area unrestricted and remove any jewelry near the bite, since the bite area will swell significantly. Call either 911 or Poison Control at 800-2221222. While rattlesnake bites can be extremely painful and may cause some illness, with prompt medical attention they are rarely fatal.

MICHAEL LEVINE, M.D., IS A MEDICAL TOXICOLOGIST AT BANNER GOOD SAMARITAN MEDICAL CENTER IN PHOENIX

QUESTION: How can I ensure I select the correct hearing aid?

Answer: I believe you will have a more fulfilling hearing aid experience if you dig deep to comprehend the impact your hearing loss has had on your life emotionally, behaviorally, mentally and socially. Write the issues down because they will become a roadmap for both you and your hearing healthcare professional. Many hearing health-care professionals have assessment scales designed to help you understand problems caused by your hearing loss.

Once you know your problems, you and your provider can better identify the best hearing aid for you and your lifestyle.

ROBERT BABER IS A BOARD-CERTIFIED HEARING INSTRUMENT SPECIALIST AND OWNER OF 21 MIRACLE-EAR CENTERS LOCATED THROUGHOUT ARIZONA

QUESTION: Are anxiety and panic attacks hereditary?

Answer: Fairly often, panic disorder seems to be inherited, or more specifically shared, by siblings who grew up together.

Both genetics and environment play a role in making a person susceptible to panic attacks.

Research done in pairs of twin same-gender siblings shows that for panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, family history is considerably more powerful than a person’s life experience.

The exact genes involved have not been identified.

LOIS E. KRAHN, M.D., IS A PSYCHIATRIST AT MAYO CLINIC IN ARIZONA

Living Well a-z invites readers to submit questions to a panel of health-care experts.

The short questions and answers will offer readers a little more information about hot topics in medicine and refer you to other resources where you can learn more.

Responses will also arm you with information so you know what to ask your own health-care providers.If you would like your question to be considered for the May 2, 2012 issue of Living Well a-z, please write to editor: Paula Hubbs Cohen, Paula.Cohen@cox.net or c/o The Arizona Republic, 200 E. Van Buren St., CA22 Phoenix, AZ 85004

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