Safe Exercises for Arthritis and Joint Pain

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Is arthritis keeping you from the activities you enjoy? About 25 percent of American adults have arthritis, but you can still find safe ways to exercise, remain active and maintain your independence.

According to research published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 58.6 million adults in the United States had arthritis from 2016 to 2018. Almost half suffer from arthritis-related activity limitations due to hip pain, knee pain and joint pain.

Arthritis Incidence Will Continue to Increase

Kristina A. Theis, Ph.D. of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, says arthritis incidence is increasing at a faster rate than projected. She told Healio Rheumatology that “a similar increasing trend was observed for the number of U.S. adults whose activities were limited due to arthritis.”

By 2040, the CDC projects that 26 percent, or 78 million American adults 18 years or older, will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

Safe Exercises to Manage Arthritis Pain

There is no cure for arthritis, but exercise is one of the best natural remedies. Inactivity can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness in the hips, knees and shoulders.  If you have arthritis, you can work with your orthopaedists to find arthritis-appropriate exercises and activities that alleviate knee pain and hip pain. Some of these activities may include:

Walking

Arthritis is painful, but inactivity can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness in the hips, knees and shoulders. Walking is gentle on your joints, and you can select the frequency, intensity and time. And the best part is, it’s free! It is ideal to walk every day, but aim for at least 30 minutes of walking three to five times per week. If you count steps, try to work up to about 6,000 steps per day. In addition, walk outside for an extra boost of Vitamin D, which reduces chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Swimming

Exercising in water decreases the effect of gravity on your body’s movements, so lap swimming and water aerobics are perfect activities if you have osteoarthritis. Research supports that water exercises promoting endurance, strength, and balance can reduce pain in older adults. Some fitness centers offer a variety of classes like hydro spinning and water flexibility.

Yoga

Yoga lengthens muscles, loosens joints and improves range of motion. There are many types of yoga but look for a beginner’s class that moves slowly and includes basic poses. The most relaxing kind of yoga is sometimes called restorative yoga. It has mostly floorwork and utilizes blankets, straps, blocks and other equipment to help reduce tension and gently increase flexibility.

Exercise cannot reverse damage due to arthritis, but it can help prevent further damage and reduce knee and joint pain. Orthopaedists can also suggest workplace accommodations and other interventions that do not include medication to help manage arthritis symptoms.

Find an Orthopaedist Near You to Manage Joint Pain

Is arthritis causing you daily pain and limiting your activities? Call your orthopaedist and make an appointment today. Your doctor can help you manage your knee, hip, shoulder or back pain by creating a customized treatment plan that may include exercises, medication or physical therapy. If it is time to consider a knee or a hip replacement, you can discuss all your options at your appointment.

5 Easy Hacks to Create Healthy Habits When Eating Out

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Dining out is such a treat: You don’t have to plan the meal, shop for it, cook it, or clean up after. But how can you make sure you stay healthy while you’re eating out — without feeling like a drag?

These 5 Easy Hacks to Create Healthy Habits When Eating Out are easy to implement without you feeling like you’re missing out:

Eat smaller portions (pack half to go!)

Food portions at restaurants are often double — if not triple — a healthy serving size. Not only does eating the entire meal mean you’re likely to get that overstuffed and full feeling by the time you realize you’ve eaten every delicious bit, but it also confuses your body about what it should do.

Your digestive system works hard to get everything you eat divvied up, and the more work it has to do, the more you’ll feel it when there’s a whole lot more food that needs to get broken down — because it also takes that much longer as your body works overtime. Smaller portions is just one way to naturally improve your digestive tract.

So, share a meal with someone — or ask for a container and immediately clear half your plate into your take-home meal for later!

Put your fork down between bites

It’s easy to quickly devour a flavorful meal in front of you (especially one you didn’t have to prepare!). But in doing so, you can easily eat more than you intended to before you even realize it.

A simple trick? Consciously put your fork down between bites.

Giving yourself a little more time to eat also gives you a chance to fully chew your food between bites, helping your digestive system out. And it also gives your brain some time to catch up with what’s going on in your stomach — so the alerts can go out when your stomach is getting full, instead of when it’s already way past stuffed. That way you can help prevent stomachaches! 

Skip the bread

You’re hungry. It’s going to be a while before your food arrives, and they placed fresh, warm bread on your table. With olive oil. Or soft butter. Or cinnamon butter. It looks so good, so you grab a piece while you wait.

Next thing you know, you’ve eaten a few pieces…and it seems like you don’t have quite the same amount of room for your main course anymore. But you finish it anyway, and then you have that overstuffed feeling.

Skip. The. Bread.

Did you go out to eat for the bread? (If so, then indulge!) But if not, keep your eye on the prize of enjoying your meal. That means skipping the bread in favor of filling up on flavorful food that fuels your body and fills you longer — because you know that once the bread gets digested when you leave you’ll have more room and be hungry again.

Drink water

While it’s tempting to order fancy drinks, milkshakes, or soft drinks while you’re out at a restaurant, drinking water with your meal is a healthier habit to keep. Drinking water aids your digestion by helping to make foods flow more smoothly through your digestive tract.

And the more immediate bonus? You’re not filling yourself up on beverages — because you went out for the food, right?

(Check out these 5 creative ways to increase water intake for good digestive health!)

Be mindful of your triggers

Let’s say you know that cheese doesn’t digest well with you, or that spaghetti sauce sets off your acid reflux…but everyone is meeting at the new pizza place and you love some good pizza.

Find yourself a healthy compromise to tell yourself beforehand. If you must indulge in a slice, limit yourself to one — and have a plan for what you can eat instead. A salad with all the toppings you normally don’t get yourself? A pasta with pesto sauce? An apple before you go to help you feel full?

When you have digestive concerns, thinking and planning ahead is part of better self care — because you’re worth it!

Keep your stomach healthy

Our team of doctors at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., are well versed in how to help ease your stomach issues and keep you healthy — so contact us today to schedule an appointment!

 

Ring in the New Year With These Healthy Tips

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The New Year commonly ushers in the creation of New Year’s resolutions. To countless individuals across the U.S., that involves setting goals to establish healthy living. During your efforts to conduct research on tips and tricks for a healthier diet and lifestyle, don’t forget to take steps to enhance your digestive wellness. Your gastrointestinal (GI) tract provides a number of vital activities that work to help preserve your overall quality of life, so set a plan into place to take great care of your gut, and welcome in the New Year with a fresh start.

Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is proud to be your partner in protecting your health against GI concerns. People desiring additional information on how they can boost their digestive health or who are experiencing any issues related to potential GI problems can contact our facility in New Orleans, LA to meet with a seasoned and caring gastroenterologist.

What foods can help to support GI health?

Start the New Year off by planning to incorporate some healthy dietary habits. Included among the most significant things you can do to enhance your digestive health is to take in plenty of foods rich in fiber. By doing so, you can help keep your GI system working efficiently and could prevent concerns, such as constipation, hemorrhoids, and diverticulitis. Foods to incorporate into your dietary intake that contain a high amount of fiber are things like:

  • Broccoli
  • Beans
  • Chickpeas
  • Whole grains
  • Lentils
  • Artichokes
  • Green peas
  • Apples

Aside from fiber-rich foods, you could additionally consider adding probiotics into your dietary intake. Your gastrointestinal tract relies on a healthy amount of helpful bacteria to function smoothly. By increasing the consumption of good microorganisms, you could potentially support a healthy balance in your digestive tract. Probiotics may be consumed in supplement form or integrated into your nutritional intake in the foods you eat, like yogurt.

What are some other ways to boost my gastrointestinal health?

The foods you eat are only a portion of the process. Other activities that might help fortify your GI health include an exercise regimen. Remaining physically active can help inhibit and relieve constipation, along with increasing the strength of your muscles. The second thing you could do to help enhance your gastrointestinal health is to manage stress effectively. Rampant stress and anxiety may potentially cause symptoms, such as constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Suggestions to reduce stress include meditation, getting quality sleep, and fostering meaningful connections with friends and family. Given that tobacco use has a negative impact on every system in your body, one final way you can help your gastrointestinal health is to cease smoking and consuming tobacco.

Should I see a gastrointestinal doctor?

While sticking to some healthy dietary habits and maintaining an active way of life can significantly improve your gastrointestinal health, there could be occasions upon which you should seek a GI specialist for more distressing symptoms. Indications that you may have a GI disease or condition are:

  • Loose bowel movements
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Blood in your stool
  • Bladder or bowel incontinence
  • Recurring heartburn
  • Nausea and vomiting

Should you notice one or more of the above signs or symptoms, contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates promptly. You can arrange for a consultation with a seasoned GI doctor in New Orleans, LA who can identify and help manage GI problems that result in these concerning issues.

Do I need to arrange for a colonoscopy?

Supporting improved gut wellness also includes remaining up to date on your preventive care. Colorectal cancer is the third leading kind of cancer among both men and women; however, the good news is that detecting the disease early can dramatically enhance its prognosis. Medical experts recommend that patients start having periodic colonoscopies at age 45. If a colonoscopy exam is normal, then you won’t need another one for about ten years. Adults can arrange to have a colonoscopy at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.

Speak with a gastrointestinal doctor in New Orleans, LA

Why wait for the New Year to start taking control of your digestive health? Move forward with the healthier, new you right away. With the caring expertise of our team at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, you can begin the New Year with improved digestive health. Our New Orleans, gastroenterologists are among the top professionals in the field. To schedule a visit or to learn more, please contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates today.

Temporary Closure Announcement

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Beginning December 20, 2021 the surgery center is temporarily closed. We are in the process of making a number of facility improvements to ensure we continue to meet our patient needs, convenience, and comfort.

We will reopen on January 10, 2022 for previously scheduled surgeries. If you have questions, please call your surgeon at his or her office.

Thank you for your patience.

Are Screening Colonoscopies and a Diagnostic Colonoscopy Different Procedures?

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Cancer of the colon threatens the lives of millions of adults every year. When the condition is identified early on, colon and rectal cancer can generally be treated successfully, carrying a high chance of survival. Periodic colorectal cancer testing enables physicians to look for precancerous or suspicious growths in the colon (large intestine) and rectum, and monitor for any further concerns should an individual have a higher risk of developing the disease.

Even though the majority of adults realize the purpose of a colonoscopy, a smaller percentage understand the difference between a screening colonoscopy and a diagnostic colonoscopy. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, our board-certified gastroenterologists commonly provide screening and diagnostic colonoscopies for New Orleans, LA patients. Continue reading to find out additional details concerning these distinct types of colonoscopy procedures, when they could be advised, and how they may help protect your general and digestive health.

When is a screening colonoscopy recommended?

The gastrointestinal (GI) specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates generally suggest a screening colonoscopy to examine for tissue irregularities in the colon or rectum, growths (also called polyps), or other evidence that colon or rectal is prone form. A screening colonoscopy, also referred to as a preventive colonoscopy, is typically recommended once every decade for individuals age 45 and over who are asymptomatic (having no symptoms) and who carry an average risk of developing colorectal cancer. Such screenings also create baseline data to which subsequent colonoscopies can be compared.

Ideal candidates for a preventive colonoscopy procedure commonly include individuals who exhibit:

  • No personal history of colorectal cancer
  • No symptoms of gastrointestinal health conditions
  • No family history of colon cancer
  • No history of polyps or other irregularities in the large intestine
  • No past or current gastrointestinal health diagnoses

When is a diagnostic colonoscopy needed?

Should any indications of cancerous or precancerous areas be identified, our New Orleans, LA digestive health specialists will likely recommend a diagnostic colonoscopy test. Such instances might include having previous areas of concern (such as polyps in the colon) or having a positive noninvasive colon cancer screening, like Cologuard®, which is a home-based testing process. Diagnostic colonoscopies, additionally referred to as surveillance or follow-up colonoscopies, vary from screening colonoscopies, as such tests are performed when there is a greater chance that cancer could arise or if there are indications that colorectal cancer may already be present.

Ideal candidates for a diagnostic colonoscopy procedure are often people who exhibit:

  • Positive colon cancer screening outcomes
  • Current or previous gastrointestinal health symptoms
  • A history of polyps or other tissue irregularities
  • A history of digestive health problems
  • A personal history of colon cancer

What else should I know about screening vs. diagnostic colonoscopy procedures?

Colonoscopy tests are exceptionally important for identifying and protecting against colon cancer. Even though a screening colonoscopy and a follow-up colonoscopy are often carried out in a similar fashion, the two procedures are performed for different reasons. In addition, insurance coverage for screening vs. diagnostic colonoscopies generally varies. As a result, it is essential to go over your insurance policy and consult your representative to learn details about your personal coverage and plan as it relates to colonoscopy procedures.

Talk with a New Orleans, LA colonoscopy doctor near you

Undergoing routine colonoscopy exams as suggested by a GI physician is essential to maintaining your digestive wellness and general health. Our New Orleans, LA colonoscopy doctors take a patient-focused approach to care and partner closely with every individual to help make sure their unique gastrointestinal concerns are addressed. Talk to our attentive staff today to find out more or to arrange for a colonoscopy consultation at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.

6 Tips for a Healthy Colon

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Colon cancer is the second most common cancer in men and women in the United States.

As cases continue to rise in younger people, the American Cancer Society has lowered the age to 45 for a colonoscopy. Earlier screenings can help doctors to diagnose more cases and possibly prevent colon cancer in many patients.

But…What is a colon?

In the human body, the colon is also known as the large bowel or large intestine, and is part of the digestive system. This system holds a group of organs that allow us to eat and to convert our food to fuel for our bodies. A colon that is not functioning properly may cause issues such as abdominal pain, bloody stools, diarrhea, constipation, or even fever.

While a colonoscopy is essential for diagnosing colon cancer, it’s also important to take good care of your colon in the process too!

Here are 6 tips for a healthy colon:

  1. Watch diet and exercise.

Carrying extra weight on your body increases the risk of colon cancer, along with other various types of cancer. Just 30 minutes of exercise a few days a week can make a difference for not only your overall health, but your colon health too. Try walking to get started.

  1. Eat your veggies and fiber-rich foods.

Choosing healthy foods goes without saying in any list regarding health, but it’s especially true for colon health. Items like veggies and high-fiber foods can help prevent colon cancer, while fried foods and processed meats can help accelerate issues.

  1. Limit alcohol and nix smoking.

Alcohol consumption should be no more than one drink a day for women or two drinks a day for men. And if you smoke, quit, as it doesn’t serve the body well in any capacity!

  1. Drink plenty of fluids.

Drinking the recommended amount of water each day keeps the entire body, including your colon, healthy and functioning properly. Try these ideas for creative ways to drink more water.

  1. Have regular bowel movements.

Your colon was not designed to hold onto waste, so it’s important to have 1-2 bowel movements each day to keep your colon healthy.

  1. Get a colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is more than a screening tool. It can prevent cancer by discovering precancerous changes, called polyps, and removing them before they develop further into cancer. Our board-certified gastroenterologists are ready to see you in our office to perform this potentially life-saving procedure.

Reminder: The year is almost over, and your deductible will reset in January. If you have a family history of colon cancer, or are experiencing symptoms that may be due to colon cancer, contact us today.

Our team at Gastrointestinal Specialists, PC in Troy, Michigan have the knowledge and experience to help you feel your best.

Pandemic Lockdown Delays Cancer Diagnosis, Results in Poor Outcomes

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Delays in diagnosis and treatment of cancer during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in worse outcomes for some patients, according to recently published data.

Many medical services were suspended across the globe during the first mandatory lockdown in the spring of 2020. Furthermore, many patients were reluctant to come to healthcare facilities for routine screenings or appointments due to fear of being exposed to COVID.

Study: Delaying CRC diagnosis increased tumor burden

A recent study referenced in Medscape analyzed data collected during the enrollment phase for a phase 2 clinical trial in France.

In the analysis, 40 people were screened before the first COVID-19 lockdown in France, and 40 people were screened following the lockdown.

“To our knowledge, this study was the first to assess the association between COVID-19 restrictions and delayed treatment and diagnostic services for a specific cancer,” the researchers noted in Becker’s Hospital Review.

Researchers found that individuals diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) after the lockdown exhibited a burden of tumor tissue cells nearly seven times higher than those diagnosed before the pandemic.

In addition, the study showed the median survival decreased from 20 months to just less than 15 months in patients with the higher tumor burden, according to Medscape.

“I think that reasons for diagnosis delays are similar in the US as in France,” said lead author Alain Thierry, Ph.D., director of research, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, France in the Medscape article. “They imply individual reluctance or fears or difficulty of carrying out a screening test or to visit a medical doctor or an oncologist during the lockdown period.”

Don’t delay colon cancer screening

Delaying treatment and diagnostic services, like colonoscopy, can lead to poor outcomes for colorectal cancer patients.

“Delayed screening very likely leads to advanced cancers, and it is highly likely that the pandemic raised the threshold that patients would seek medical care for subacute symptoms,” said Theodore S. Hong, MD, director of gastrointestinal services at Mass General Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts in Medscape. “This is leading to many patients presenting with advanced gastrointestinal cancers.”

Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The American Cancer Society’s recommendation for baseline colon cancer screenings is 45 for all adults at average risk for colon cancer.

Although there are other screening tests, colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening because the procedure both detects and removes precancerous polyps before they become cancer.

The Affordable Care Act of 2010 requires both private insurers and Medicare to cover the costs of colorectal cancer screening tests. To avoid any confusion, contact your health insurance agent or employer’s human resources department.

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A Cure for a Pain in the Neck: An Ergonomic Workstation

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Is your workspace causing neck or back pain? It may be time to redesign your work area to make it conducive to proper alignment and posture.

Why Does My Neck Hurt Every Day?

If the average human head weighs 12 pounds, it’s no surprise that you may experience daily neck pain during the workday. Slumping in your desk chair or spending hours looking down at documents can lead to chronic discomfort.

When you bend your neck to 45 degrees, your head puts almost 50 pounds of force on your neck. This can cause muscle and joint strain and affect your breathing and even your mood.

Creating an Ergonomic Work Station

Most people try to adjust their body to their workstation instead of making their workstation compatible with their body. For example, did you know the average desk is for people who are 5-foot-10?

An ergonomic workspace promotes good posture by keeping the body in a neutral position. It also increases efficiency and comfort by placing all your office accessories precisely to keep everything within easy reach. In addition, this arrangement prevents overuse injuries and is gentle on the neck, back and spine.

If you are experiencing daily pain from sitting at your desk, try these six suggestions to create an ergonomic office: Evaluate the placement of your computer monitor on your desk. Is your monitor too far away, too high, too low or too small? You can adjust the height of your monitor or your chair, so your eyes are level with the top of the screen.

  1. A comfortable chair that supports your back— A good office chair will support the natural curve of your back. Purchase a quality chair with lumbar support that is reclined slightly to 100 to 110 degrees. You may substitute a lumbar support pillow or seat cushion as well.
  2. A desk at the proper height for your body—One size does not fit all when it comes to desks. For example, your feet should touch the ground when seated, and your arms should be parallel to the floor or angled toward your lap when typing on a keyboard. A height-adjustable desk is a good choice because you can customize the settings for your comfort.
  3. An external, ergonomic keyboard–If your shoulders feel strained, you can consider purchasing an ergonomic keyboard like a split keyboard, a partially split keyboard or a keyboard that does not have a number pad.
  4. A mouse that feels comfortable in your hand–Using a touchpad or a standard mouse can strain your wrists and fingers. Instead, find a mouse that works well for you, or consider a trackball or a stylus with a graphics tablet.
  5. A monitor set within arm’s reach, at a comfortable height—Your display should be positioned so that your eye level is about two or three inches from the top of the screen. It would help if you did not have to look up or strain your neck to see your monitor.
  6. Good lighting—Sufficient lighting will help reduce craning your neck or straining your eyes. Try to use natural light when possible because sunlight also helps boost your mood (Wirecutter).

By making some changes to equipment and placement, you should be able to sit comfortably at your desk for several hours without pain.

Find an Orthopedic Surgeon in Your Area

Making changes to your workspace should help reduce the neck, back, shoulder, knee or hip pain you may be experiencing. However, some people may find they still feel chronic pain daily.  You don’t have to live with neck and back pain. Call your orthopedist and make an appointment before the end of the year.  There are treatments available to help you get relief and enjoy life again.

Can Monovision Reduce Your Dependence on Glasses?

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Do you find yourself squinting to read food labels, menus or your phone? You may have presbyopia, or “aging eye.” As we age, the eye lens loses flexibility, and it becomes difficult to focus on close objects. There are many ways to treat presbyopia. Many people may opt to use a magnifying glass, reading glasses or prescription glasses.

Another option is called monovision or blended vision. This kind of vision can be achieved with contact lenses, LASIK (refractive surgery) or an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).

How Monovision or Blended Vision Works

Everyone has a dominant eye. It is usually the eye that you prefer seeing with if you cover one eye. Your eye doctor can correct your dominant eye for distance vision and leave your non-dominant eye slightly nearsighted to use for seeing objects up close.

Even though it is called monovision, you are still using both eyes. When you are reading or driving, the brain slightly suppresses one eye, but both eyes still contribute visual information.  Many people find monovision works well for them, but it varies among individuals.

Is Monovision Right for You?

Not everyone can adapt to monovision. Your ophthalmologist may recommend trying blended vision using contact lenses first before a surgical procedure like cataract surgery. In cataract surgery, a surgeon will remove the deteriorated, brittle lens and replace it with an artificial, intraocular lens customized to your vision needs. Often, cataract surgery can reduce dependence on glasses. In some cases, when people can learn monovision, they may not have to wear glasses at all.

Are There Any Downsides to Monovision?

Some patients experience problems with monovision. These may include:

  • Eye fatigue or eye strain from too much near work–You may try using reading glasses for the distance vision eye.
  • Blurred vision—You may need to wear distance glasses to correct the reading eye.
  • Blurry intermediate vision—You may find computer tasks are difficult, and you might need intermediate correction.
  • Challenges with night driving—You may experience glare, burn and flare when driving at night, and you may need glasses part-time (Stanford Health Care).

In some cases, people may lose some depth perception when one eye focuses on distance and the other eye focuses on close objects. Some people find they still need reading glasses to decipher small print.

Find an Ophthalmologist Near You

Are you considering cataract surgery, or would you like to reduce your dependence on glasses and corrective lenses? Call your ophthalmologist to make an appointment to discuss monovision. Don’t wait until the beginning of the year when your deductible resets. Call today to maximize the benefits of your health plan.