Dr. Andrew Boxer Featured in Wellness Article on FODMAP Everyday

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Dr. Andrew BoxerWe’re excited to share that Dr. Andrew Boxer of Premier Endoscopy Center was recently featured in a wellness article published on FODMAP Everyday via NewsBreak, titled “I’m 90% Thriving: My 17 Non-Negotiables for Staying Healthier, Sharper, Happier.”

In the article, Dr. Boxer lends his expertise on digestive health, emphasizing the importance of gut-friendly habits and how small, consistent choices can lead to long-term wellness. His insights support the broader message of the piece: that thriving in health is achievable through intentional, sustainable practices.

Read the full article here: I’m 90% Thriving: My 17 Non-Negotiables for Staying Healthier, Sharper, Happier

We’re proud to see Dr. Boxer’s voice included in this important conversation and grateful for his continued dedication to patient care and education.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Dr. Nahar Discusses Fiber, Ulcerative Colitis in SELF Magazine

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Ritu Nahar, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist at the Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick, was featured as a subject matter expert in a recent online SELF magazine article.

In the article, entitled “If You Have Ulcerative Colitis, You May Want to Watch Out for This Type of Fiber,” Dr. Nahar discussed how insoluble fiber affects patients with this chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

Ulcerative colitis affects the colon lining and causes small sores, or ulcers, to form. Patients often experience symptoms including abdominal cramps and pain and persistent diarrhea.

In the article, Dr. Nahar explained that ulcerative colitis makes the colon “more sensitive to rough, bulky fibers,” like insoluble fiber found in the skins of many fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole wheat flour.

Dr. Nahar discussed the differences in soluble and insoluble fiber and the benefits of each. She offered cooking tips to make insoluble fiber foods easier for patients to tolerate during or following an ulcerative colitis flare. She also noted the importance of balancing your intake of fiber and your gastrointestinal health.

“The goal is to balance fiber intake to support gut health without exacerbating inflammation,” Dr. Nahar told SELF.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Take a Google 360 Virtual Tour of Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick

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North Brunswick, NJ – Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick invites you to experience the exceptional care and inviting atmosphere of our entire facility. Known for excellence in healthcare, our center’s clean and welcoming environment underscores our dedication to patient comfort and care.

Take the Google 360 Tour

Discover the comprehensive care we offer through an immersive 360 virtual tour, meticulously captured by a certified Google 360 photographer. From the welcoming reception area to our state-of-the-art procedure rooms and tranquil recovery spaces, every detail is designed with your well-being in mind. Transparency is one of our core values, and we want you to see the quality-of-care patients receive every day. This virtual experience exemplifies our commitment to transparency, allowing you to explore our entire facility, reducing pre-visit anxiety and fostering trust.

Why Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick?

  • Comprehensive and Inviting Facilities: Experience healthcare in an environment where cleanliness and comfort are paramount, from the lobby to the procedure rooms.
  • Personalized Care: Our skilled professionals are dedicated to your unique health needs, ensuring a patient-centered approach throughout your visit.
  • Informed Decisions: The virtual tour and detailed photography gallery offer insights into our center, promoting transparency and confidence in your healthcare choices.

Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick waiting roomAt Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick, we blend unparalleled medical care with an environment that prioritizes your comfort and peace of mind. We invite you to discover the difference at our meticulously maintained facility.

Struggling With Knee Pain? See How One Patient Took Back Control

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Staying active and in shape has been a priority throughout Jerry Novak’s life, both personally and professionally. Within the past few years, persistent knee pain made it difficult to run, move comfortably and manage daily tasks.

Two years ago, during the Corvallis Turkey Trot, Novak struggled to keep pace — even as a walker. That’s when he knew something was seriously wrong with his knees.

“I realized that I could not keep up with really old people,” he said. “I mean, I’m in my 60s, but these people were like in their 70s, and they’re leaving me behind. And I thought, ‘I’m walking as fast as I can.’ After that I started having issues.”

Chronic Knee Pain Affects Work, Quality of Life

As a Marine Corps Reserves and National Guard veteran, Novak built a life around physical fitness, and pushing through pain came naturally.

“I used to run five miles a day in the summertime,” he said, recalling his youth. “I’d push myself. The Marine Corps helped me a lot with that. They pushed me and made me realize that just because you’re tired doesn’t mean you should stop, or just because you’re hurting.”

Novak's X-raysThat mindset continued for 30 years on the job with the El Centro Police Department, before he retired in 2010. Today, the 65-year-old Imperial, California, resident continues to protect and serve his community as the lead court security officer at the El Centro Federal Courthouse.

“We guard the courthouse,” he said. “I’m in a job that [usually] is not very physical, but it can be. I don’t want to risk anybody else by not being able to do the job properly.”

After the 5k, Novak noticed climbing stairs became too painful at work, so he started taking the elevator. As his mobility declined, he began to lose confidence in his abilities.

When his daughter asked him to help her move, Novak said knee pain made getting in and out of his pickup truck nearly impossible.

“Getting down out of the bed of my pickup, I had to basically get down on my knees and try and crawl out,” he said. “I couldn’t jump down off of it.”

Hoping to avoid unnecessary surgery, Novak visited his primary care doctor for treatment. He modified his exercise workouts and activities and received Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections over several months with minimal relief.

“My knees got to where my quality of life was really suffering,” Novak said. “I just couldn’t walk.”

X-rays Confirm Severe Arthritis in Knees

Dr. Brad S. CohenTo explore other treatment options, Novak met with orthopedic surgeon Brad S. Cohen, MD, last winter. X-rays confirmed he had severe osteoarthritis in both of his knees.

Osteoarthritis affects one in five U.S. adults. This “wear-and-tear” disease breaks down joint cartilage, causing bones to rub together, leading to pain and reduced mobility. It is a leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S.

Treatment options for chronic arthritis pain management may include weight loss, physical therapy, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and injections. Physicians may recommend activity modification, like walking two miles instead of running five miles.

“When those things start failing or not working and the people are not having pain relief, that’s when we start talking about a knee replacement,” Dr. Cohen said. “I also tell them when your pain becomes five to six out of 10 on a daily basis, when you can’t really do the exercises you want [and] you’re really not having a great quality of life, you’ll know when you’re ready [for surgery].”

A patient’s pain level and treatment history help determine if surgery is the right option. Dr. Cohen said Novak was a good candidate for knee replacement for several reasons.

“He was having trouble standing in the courtroom. He was having trouble walking far distances. He was having trouble going up and down stairs. Then, on top of that, he had pain,” Dr. Cohen said. “With all those things in mind, that’s why you go ahead and have a knee replacement.”

Patient Opts for Outpatient Knee Replacement Surgeries

Approximately 790,000 knee replacement procedures are performed in the United States every year. Novak opted to have both knee replacement surgeries at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). His first surgery on his left knee was in January, followed by his right knee six weeks later.

Patients who opt for surgeries at an ASC benefit from fewer delays, easier access and lower costs. Outpatient surgery centers focus on scheduled procedures, are simple to navigate with convenient parking, and may offer more affordable care than hospitals.

Doctors determine whether patients are suitable for outpatient surgery based on their age, existing medical conditions and the support they receive at home.

“I tell you it was great for me,” Novak said. “I just like the idea of having comprehensive care in one place. It just seemed like a good fit for me. And it worked really well.”

Physical Therapy Key to Recovery, Return to Activities

After each surgery, Novak was discharged from the ASC. Physical therapy sessions began within days, for about two to three weeks at home, followed by months of outpatient therapy.

“There was a lot of pain, but you also have to be moving,” Novak said. “It’s going to hurt, but it’s worth it in the end because you get your mobility back.”

Following joint replacement, Dr. Cohen advises his patients to avoid high-impact activities, such as running, or sports that involve contact or jumping, like basketball.

Novak runningNovak said his mobility and quality of life have improved with physical therapy and exercise. As he regains strength and endurance, Novak looks forward to returning to his role at the El Centro Federal Courthouse and doing daily tasks pain-free.

“Getting in and out of my truck period — just getting in the driver’s seat — is a lot easier now,” he said. “It had gotten to the point where it just was agony because I have to step up into my truck. I can do that now without pain.”

Watching Novak reclaim mobility and confidence, Dr. Cohen applauds his successful rehabilitation and return to an active, fulfilling life.

“I’m just thrilled he had such a great result,” he said. “I’m just wishing him the best.”

Schedule Your Appointment for an Evaluation

If you are experiencing chronic pain due to arthritis, contact your orthopedist, who will evaluate your symptoms. Your doctor will help create a treatment plan tailored to you with lifestyle changes or total joint replacement.

“I really wish I’d just gone straight to the orthopedic surgeon initially,” Novak said. “I know I’ll be getting better and better. I’m at the point now where I feel a lot more confident just walking around.”

Do not ignore pain in your shoulder, hip, back or knee, because it will probably worsen. Waiting too long can complicate your condition, so call today to make an appointment.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

One Simple Thing You Can Do Each Day for Improved Gut Health

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Staying hydrated is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support your digestive system, especially in the summer heat. (Really!)

Here’s why it matters and how you can make hydration a daily habit:

Why hydration matters for your gut

1. Prevents constipation

Water softens everything flowing through your colon and helps it pass more easily. Without enough fluid, things become hard and slow-moving — a common cause of constipation.

2. Reduces bloating and stomach discomfort

Adequate hydration supports smooth digestion, helping food move more efficiently and minimizing unpleasant bloating. (Check out these 4 Ways to Keep Your GI Tract Running Smoothly)

3. Aids nutrient absorption

Fluids help break down food so your body can absorb essential nutrients more effectively.

4. Supports healthy gut lining

Your digestive tract depends on hydration to maintain its protective lining and optimal function.

Signs you might not be drinking enough

  • Fewer than three bowel movements per week
  • Persistent bloating or gas
  • Dry skin or fatigue
  • Dark yellow urine or very little output

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, increasing your water intake could offer simple, quick relief.

Easy ways to boost your water intake

Once you’ve established the benefits of drinking more water, go ahead and make it a daily goal. These tips will help:

  • Start your day with a glass of water. Before your morning coffee, drink 8–12 oz of water for a refreshing wake-up.
  • Set reminders. Use your phone or a hydration app to prompt you to drink some water every hour.
  • Infuse water for flavor. Add slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to your water to make it more appealing.
  • Drink water before meals. A small glass before eating can also support digestion and help you eat smaller meals.
  • Track your water intake. Use a reusable water bottle marked with time goals (like “Morning”, “Afternoon”, “Evening”).

When to reach out to a GI specialist

While better hydration is a simple first step, persistent or severe symptoms like ongoing constipation, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight changes deserve professional attention. They may be one of these 5 Signs you Need to See a GI Doctor to get expert diagnoses from a gastrointestinal specialist like Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich.

Our on-site surgical center offers convenient colonoscopies and diagnostic procedures designed to catch issues early and keep you healthy. Compared to hospital settings, our relaxed atmosphere provides a personalized experience, shorter wait times, and lower costs.

Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. today to schedule your appointment.

Your Heart Health Matters: New Cardiac Procedure Available

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Caring for patients is at the heart of what we do. Towson Surgical Center is pleased to announce a new cardiology procedure — generator (battery) replacement for pacemakers and implantable defibrillators — to support your long-term heart health.

This advancement allows patients to receive essential cardiac care in a more convenient and cost-effective setting, without the need for a hospital stay.

The generator replacement is a vital procedure that ensures continued, reliable support for patients with implanted cardiac devices. We are proud to provide this service with the same high standards of safety and quality that define our center.

Benefits of an Ambulatory Surgery Center

Having this procedure performed at our center offers numerous benefits to patients, including:

  • significantly lower costs compared to hospital-based care
  • quicker recovery times
  • shorter discharge periods—allowing patients to return home the same day.

Additionally, the outpatient setting helps reduce the risk of hospital-related complications, leading to a smoother and more comfortable overall experience.

Schedule an Appointment

With this new offering, we are committed to delivering advanced cardiac care in a setting that prioritizes efficiency, safety and patient satisfaction.

If you need this procedure or would like more information, please schedule an appointment with one of our physicians.

Take a Google 360 Virtual Tour of Digestive Specialists

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Step inside three of our Digestive Endoscopy Centers in Dayton, Ohio, and explore our state-of-the-art facilities from the comfort of your home with our new 360° virtual tour. Renowned for our commitment to high-quality healthcare, we take pride in maintaining a welcoming and serene environment that ensures our patients’ peace of mind.

Take the Google 360 Tour

Get a closer look at the exceptional care we provide with our interactive 360° tour, captured by a certified Google photographer. Journey through our inviting reception area, advanced procedure rooms, and peaceful recovery spaces—all designed with patient comfort as a top priority. At Digestive Specialists, transparency is key. We believe that by offering a full view of our facilities, you can feel confident and at ease even before stepping through our doors. These virtual tours aim to reduce any pre-visit worries and build trust by showcasing our commitment to patient care.

Huber Heights

Sugarcreek Township

Springboro

Why Choose Digestive Specialists?

  • Welcoming and Comfortable Environment: Our facilities are meticulously maintained to provide a clean, comfortable space that enhances your experience from the moment you arrive.
  • Personalized, Compassionate Care: We prioritize patient-centered care, tailoring each treatment to your unique needs while making you feel valued and cared for.
  • Get Familiar Before You Visit: Our virtual tours and photo galleries allow you to see our center in advance, helping you feel more confident and informed about your upcoming visit.

At Digestive Specialists, we combine leading-edge medical care with a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere, ensuring a positive experience at every stage. Take the tour today and see firsthand how we are dedicated to supporting your well-being.

Take a Google 360 Virtual Tour of West Chester Endoscopy Center

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Step inside West Chester Endoscopy Center and explore our state-of-the-art facility from the comfort of your home with our new 360° virtual tour. Renowned for our commitment to high-quality healthcare, we take pride in maintaining a welcoming and serene environment that ensures our patients’ peace of mind.

Take the Google 360 Tour

Get a closer look at the exceptional care we provide with our interactive 360° tour, captured by a certified Google photographer. Journey through our inviting reception area, advanced procedure rooms, and peaceful recovery spaces—all designed with patient comfort as a top priority. At West Chester Endoscopy Center, transparency is key. We believe that by offering a full view of our facility, you can feel confident and at ease even before stepping through our doors. This virtual tour aims to reduce any pre-visit worries and build trust by showcasing our commitment to patient care.

Why Choose West Chester Endoscopy Center?

  • Welcoming and Comfortable Environment: Our facility is meticulously maintained to provide a clean, comfortable space that enhances your experience from the moment you arrive.
  • Personalized, Compassionate Care: We prioritize patient-centered care, tailoring each treatment to your unique needs while making you feel valued and cared for.
  • Get Familiar Before You Visit: Our virtual tour and photo gallery allow you to see our center in advance, helping you feel more confident and informed about your upcoming visit.

At West Chester Endoscopy Center, we combine leading-edge medical care with a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere, ensuring a positive experience at every stage. Take the tour today and see firsthand how we are dedicated to supporting your well-being.

Take a Google 360 Virtual Tour of Endoscopy Center of Delaware

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Step inside Endoscopy Center of Delaware and explore our state-of-the-art facility from the comfort of your home with our new 360° virtual tour. Renowned for our commitment to high-quality healthcare, we take pride in maintaining a welcoming and serene environment that ensures our patients’ peace of mind.

Take the Google 360 Tour

Get a closer look at the exceptional care we provide with our interactive 360° tour, captured by a certified Google photographer. Journey through our inviting reception area, advanced procedure rooms, and peaceful recovery spaces—all designed with patient comfort as a top priority. At Endoscopy Center of Delaware, transparency is key. We believe that by offering a full view of our facility, you can feel confident and at ease even before stepping through our doors. This virtual tour aims to reduce any pre-visit worries and build trust by showcasing our commitment to patient care.

Why Choose Endoscopy Center of Delaware?

  • Welcoming and Comfortable Environment: Our facility is meticulously maintained to provide a clean, comfortable space that enhances your experience from the moment you arrive.
  • Personalized, Compassionate Care: We prioritize patient-centered care, tailoring each treatment to your unique needs while making you feel valued and cared for.
  • Get Familiar Before You Visit: Our virtual tour and photo gallery allow you to see our center in advance, helping you feel more confident and informed about your upcoming visit.

At Endoscopy Center of Delaware, we combine leading-edge medical care with a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere, ensuring a positive experience at every stage. Take the tour today and see firsthand how we are dedicated to supporting your well-being.

Ocean Surgical Pavilion Physician Honored for Work with Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

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The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation New Jersey Chapter recently honored Penny S. Turtel, MD, FACG, FACP, at the nonprofit’s BANDed Together Event on June 6 in Long Branch, New Jersey.

Dr. Turtel, along with Allied Digestive Health (ADH), received the 2025 Community Impact Award. This award honors individuals and groups dedicated to improving gastrointestinal care, especially focusing on Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Dr. Turtel is an AMSURG physician partner at Ocean Surgical Pavilion in Oakhurst, New Jersey. Accepting on behalf of ADH, she thanked the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation chapter for the honor.

“Their mission is crucial to not only the local communities in New Jersey and New York but also to families across the country. Working with them has allowed us to further support their cause beyond the research and education done by our providers,” she said in a New Jersey Culture Times article. “To know that they value our dedication to finding a cure as much as we value theirs is not something we take lightly, and it is with great pride that we accept this award. This is just one step in the journey of our support for the foundation, our patients and their families to one day find a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.”

Dr. Turtel serves on the New Jersey chapter’s board of directors and the Medical Education Committee. She has been a passionate advocate for patients, actively supports educational programs and plays a key role in leading the chapter’s fundraising efforts, according to the article.

AnnaMaria Mindish, Regional Executive Director, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, New Jersey Chapter, praised the work of Dr. Turtel and ADH.

“The New Jersey Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is thrilled to honor Allied Digestive Health and Dr. Penny Turtel for their incredible efforts in driving support to the mission,” Mindish said in the article.

Mindish noted that Dr. Turtel founded New Jersey BANDed Together a decade ago with Lori Dunbar, one of her patients. Since then, the organization has raised nearly $500,000.

“We would not have achieved this success without Dr. Turtel and Allied Digestive Health’s influence within the IBD Community,” Mindish said in the article. “We are beyond grateful to have their partnership as we continue to increase awareness about inflammatory bowel disease in New Jersey and raise critical funds to ensure that research to find a cure is not put on hold.”

A Fellow of the American College of Physicians and of the American College of Gastroenterology, Dr. Turtel has published in the fields of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Nutrition and Small Bowel Diseases.