April 2008 Health News and Events
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Energy Medicine: What it is and What it Does
Although it has been practiced for thousands of years in other parts of the world, energy medicine is only now beginning, albeit gradually, to become a known reality in this country. What is happening as well, and perhaps what is supporting this awakening, is that the field is becoming progressively more diverse. As with main stream medicine, which has a wide variety of approaches to health care such as family medicine, cardiology, pediatrics, endocrinology, and neurology, energy medicine encompasses a broad spectrum as well.
Within the field of energy medicine, there are practitioners who work solely with the Biofield, a non-specific energetic field which exists in and around the body. (It is through the biofield that we experience those electrical charges which can shock us unexpectedly when we touch something.) The biofield is composed of all the means of energy flow that exist in our system, from every time we move, we breathe, or our heart beats and our organs function. Approaches such as Reiki and Therapeutic Touch are examples of those who deal with this larger, less defined or specific expression of energy.
There are also practitioners who focus solely on the Meridians which are lines of energy similar to garden hoses which run throughout our bodies. Many meridians, although certainly not all, are identified with organs. In China and Japan, for example, meridians are considered traditional points of focus in working with one who is ill and in need of balancing or healing. Within this approach to energy medicine, the elements of Fire, Earth, Metal or Air, Water and Wood are considered the basics elements of life and are considered to be reflected in various body parts. From this perspective, the water element of life, for example, is considered to be reflected in the organ pair of Bladder and Kidney. From this pair of organs there are energy lines, or Meridians, that are well-defined and which flow from the head to the foot and back. Because these two organs work as a pair, if one is deficient, the other may be excessive. The objective in working with the meridians or other energy channels is to bring balance first within the pair discussed and then directly or indirectly between each of the pairs and the many other energy flows in the system as well. Research has shown that each of the meridians or channels are reflective of not only physical but also emotional stresses that are impacting the body. Consequently, when we receive Acupuncture (with hair-thin needles) or Acupressure (without needles) the intent is to balance our bodies multi-dimensionally supporting a healthy energetic flow on all levels.
In addition, the Chakras, a Hindu word for other energy centers in the body which are cone or wheel shaped, are another focus of energy flow that particular practitioners focus on. Although there are hundreds of chakras throughout our system, some large and some small, most chakra work focuses on the seven major chakras in our system. They run from the base of the body at the peritoneum, to the crown of the head with pairs that exist between these locations within the abdomen, the solar plexus, the heart, the throat, and in the forehead. Each of these chakras feed the organs or systems they are related to and that exist within their physical scope. As with the meridians, these are multi-dimensional realities. Each has unique physical, emotional, and spiritual implications for your system, in a very healthy way if they are working and in a very unhealthy way if they are not. There are practitioners who work solely with this source of energy flows in the
There are numerous books on the market which discuss these various flows in great detail. Carolyn Myss has a book entitled Anatomy of the Spirit which describes some of this work. Anodea Judith has a comprehensive book entitled Eastern Body/Western Mind which discusses the blend of each of these levels of the energy field and how they interact. As you read, you will see that they are all distinct and yet they are all one.
Rather than being a new concept, or something unfamiliar, most of us have already experienced in the energy in our body and yet never identified it as such. We already know how the energy in our body is supposed to feel without even realizing it. This is demonstrated when we sense something is not right yet when we go to the doctor, he/she cannot find anything wrong. It is an example of our own intuition (inner knowing), our own awareness of our body on an energetic level, coming into action. On a deeper level than we are usually conscious of, we sense an imbalance in our body, yet it cannot be detected through
traditional medical tests. That is because all disease and disorder begins on an energetic level. When this sense of imbalance is still solely on an energetic level and is not yet in the physical body, we are aware of it yet it is not yet physically visible by those who have been trained to see it. It is at this initial point that it is the ideal time to deal with the problem with minimal impact on your life. What cannot be detected by an EEG or an EKG for example, can be detected by a well-trained practitioner.
To fully understand this work, the work of Energy Medicine, it is important to know that everything that exists, that we see, sense or feel, is made up of energy. Our physical bodies are simply energy slowed down to a state that creates physical mass. The unique blend of that mass is what creates our individuality. In its natural state, energy is fluid, flowing, and vibrant, the way we feel when we are healthy and well-rested. When it is not, something has gone wrong, minimally or in a major way. When we are sick or have a disease, an energetic block has developed somewhere in the physical body, or the energy flow is minimized or deficient thus, the body is not able to function as it is meant to. Often the energy simply needs to be balanced or a block may need to be released.
Every thought you have ever had is an energetic reality. Every feeling you have ever had is an energetic reality. When you do not deal with these, when you decide that you are not supposed to think or feel “that way” and block it, hold it in, you literally stagnate that energy flow thus creating something similar to an energetic cyst in your system. That cyst can be dissolved with the energy re-assimilated into your system so that things flow freely again. This can be done in working as a generalist with the biofield, or as a specialist in working with the meridians or the chakras. Whether you learn how to release that block yourself or see a practitioner to do it for you, it is extremely beneficial to see someone who can help you understand your own energy patterns and the ways in which you, specifically, hold or utilize your energy.
Energy Medicine is the approach to health care which works on this level. It works with these flows to support health in your body on all levels. The degree to which a practitioner can impact these flows as well as educate you to your own process depends, however, on how well he or she is trained, the depth of their knowledge of the energy flows, their intent, and their ability to see, sense, or intuit what most needs to be done during any particular session.
An Energy Medicine Practitioner assesses the energy flow within and around a person’s physical body to determine where there are any blocks, deficiencies, excesses or stagnations in their energy field. Based on this assessment, a practitioner uses specific techniques to realign and balance the energy field to help restore health and well-being on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. Depending upon their training they will work with any of the particular flows listed above. Usually practitioners are trained in only one of the approaches listed above.
However some have trained in one, two, three, or more approaches to the energy field. As stated above, some work with the general energy flows alone, trusting that you will innately know specifically where it needs to be balanced. Others work very specifically following the flows to see the extent to which there is imbalance and will work throughout the level of the system they are trained in, following as your body leads them.
Others, such as those trained in the W.I.S.E. Method™ are trained to work with all levels of energy flow, the biofield, the meridians, and he chakras, and to support you in understanding what is happening for you during those times of onset of a disease or disorder or at the times in which there is an exacerbation, or worsening, of the symptoms. We each have our own vulnerabilities, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, and we each have our own patterns of illness, chronic and acute. Understanding how your body responds to stress, allows you to see the patterns you have developed over the years, based on how you hold your energy, how it flows within your body, and how you react or respond to the events of your life. That understanding has an amazing ability to support you in taking your life back and in seeing that your life and your health is far more under your control than you realize. Learning to listen to your body, to be aware of your energy, supports you in going to be tired rather than exhausted. That level of awareness, allows you to notice immediately when something doesn’t feel well. Developing the tools, the life skills, necessary to support your own health, gives you a far greater chance of dealing with issues when they are beginning rather than when you are too weak, frightened, or vulnerable to do so. A comprehensive approach to energy medicine can heal as well as educate. As a form of wholistic health, it deals with the whole person, intellectually, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Also, as a form of wholistic health, and a wholistic approach to health, it is an aspect of integrative health working in partnership, rather than competition, with main stream medicine, helping to provide a full approach to health care and education for patients as well as medical practitioners, whatever their training.
Finally, amazingly, this form of healing is a skill we all possess naturally, as embodied souls. Don’t you instinctively, energetically, want to help someone who looks stressed or overwhelmed? Don’t you want to offer tea or a drink to someone who is distraught? If someone is hurt, don’t you instinctively want to touch the wound and sooth it? Isn’t it natural, to wish you could take the pain from someone you love? For some, they have followed that urge, that instinct and taken it to the next level through energy medicine. They have spent a period of time, varying from one day to four years or more in which they have studied to truly understand this work and to have the ability to work in-depth in the healing as well as the education of a client/patient. They recognize the importance of energy medicine in supporting or recreating a natural free-flowing energy pattern within a client/patient’s body that best supports them living their life, fully alive, passionately and vibrantly. It supports living rather than surviving. At its best, it deals with the deepest and most natural connection to the self, making it possible for you to be all that you are called to be.
Dorothy A. Martin-Neville, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, EMP is the founder and CEO of The Institute of Healing Arts and Sciences, Inc. and the creator of The W.I.S.E Method™. She is a Clinical Instructor at The University of Connecticut Medical School. Dr. Martin-Neville has been Co-Chair of the Advisory Board of an NIH funded multi-million dollar Frontier Medicine Grant and has received NIH grant funding to research the W.I.S.E. Method™ with Fibromyalgia patients.
Celebrate Earth Day!
Earth day is everyday! But what does that mean really? Earth Day was first celebrated in April 1970 as a way to draw attention to the fact that we were polluting the earth and using its resources without any thought of future generations. In fact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established at the same time period as result of visual pollutants. It didn’t require a PhD to see the water in the river and streams was running brown and was no longer “fish-able or swim-able” or that the blue sky was suddenly gray with smog. The first Earth Day celebration was intended as a peaceful demonstration to let the politicians know that the public understood and were deeply concerned over the deterioration of our environment and the mindless dissipation of our resources.
The response was overwhelming, from DC to California, millions of people turned out to show their support and left a permanent impact on the politics of America. The Earth Day movement thrust the issue of environmental quality and resource conservation into the political dialogue of the Nation. It showed the political and opinion leadership of the country that the people cared, that they were ready for political action, that the politicians had better get ready, too. In short, Earth Day launched the Environmental decade with a bang. (EPA.gov)
Earth Day celebrations are planned every year and involve river or trail clean-ups and educational “Lunch and Learn” programs. The Clean Water Act of 1972 has greatly impacted our water. As an adjunct at SCSU, I have student research a body of water that was previously polluted and present an overview of the history, clean-up activities and current uses of the water system. I have very few students select the same water system. So what does that mean? It means that we have an abundant of rivers/lake that were polluted but are now swim-able or fishable. It also means we truly have come along way with recognizing our faults and taking action to reclaim our environment.
There are several local organizations very active in area of environmental issues. The QRWA is a wonderful local organization concerned with the condition of the Quinnipiac River. I had the enjoyment of joining them one year a canoe trip through North Haven. It was an awesome experience to see the nesting boxes along the water way and to learn about continued efforts to restore the river. There is also the River Alliance Organization focused on the Housatonic River, the Save the Sound Organization and the CT Fund for the Environment, all of which provide educational and active clean-up efforts. Come out to the Wallingford Health Dept “Lunch and Learn” at the Wallingford Library on April 8th to hear more.
So what can you do? Recycle! Did you know that paper is #1 item in our landfills? What a waste of a limited resource, land! Teach your children not to litter, I can’t tell you how many times I see someone throw a wrapper or a cigarette butt out of a car window. My nephews (now all grown with kids of there own), tell stories how I made them pick-up litter on the street because they threw a candy wrapper while we were taking one of our many walks (of course they affectionately refer to our walks as “death marches”).
Fun Earth Day Facts: It takes 2 gallons of water to brush your teeth if you leave the water running. SO turn off the water and you’ll save both water lower your water bill. Did you know it takes about 20 gallons of water to wash dishes by hand but only 10 gallons when you use a dishwasher (full load of coarse)? The first US census was in 1790 and was taken by U.S. marshals on horseback and counted 3.9 million people. Census 2000 counted more than 281 million people. Population increase equates to decreased land and natural resources. So walk more, drive less and you’ll help to reduce auto emissions/smog, fuel usage and get healthier in the process. Now THAT’S a good by-product!
Enjoy spring and take the time to enjoy all that Earth has to offer, together we can Mother Mother Earth.
Eloise Hudd
Wallingford Health Dept.
Cancer care is only a click away
The Cancer Center at MidState now has its own unique URL on the web. By visiting the new site, you’ll find detailed information on early cancer detection and diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and patient and family support programs. Best of all, everything you need to know can be found in this one convenient location. We are proud of our Cancer Center and its ability to offer our patients comprehensive cancer care close to home. Read about our integrated, patient-focused approach and our efforts in prevention, education, and outreach. Visit us today at www.midstatecancercenter.com.
Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD) at MidState’s Digestive Health Center is about to get easier for patients this year with the arrival of the Bravo pH Monitoring System, an advanced technology that makes diagnosis more accurate and comfortable.
In order to make a definitive diagnosis for GERD, pH testing of the esophagus is necessary, but many patients avoid testing due to the discomfort of the traditional procedure, in which catheters are inserted through the nose and down the esophagus. The Bravo system is a welcomed alternative that causes patients generally no distress.
Additionally, patients are able to maintain a normal diet and activity level during testing, leading to increased compliance.
“The Bravo system essentially makes testing quicker and easier for patients,” said Gary Cohen, MD, medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center.
David Sack, MD, gastroenterologist, explained the procedure: “A probe is briefly inserted into the esophagus and a small pH capsule is attached to the lining. The capsule then sends back radio signals via a pager-sized receiver worn by the patient. Data from the receiver is uploaded to computer software, which allows us to measure acid exposure in the esophagus and determine if symptoms are due to reflux. The capsule falls off after two or three days, and patients naturally pass it.”
The patient-friendly system allows physicians to monitor pH levels for 48 hours, the preferred time frame for classification of GERD. “About one-third of our patients come to us with upper GI issues. This technology adds to our ability to properly diagnose acid problems.”
This year the Digestive Health Center will also acquire new scopes. Likened to a high-definition television, Dr. Sack said, the new scopes will offer better views of the GI tract: “The wider angle views allow us to do procedures more comfortably and efficiently. They’ll be particularly helpful in recognizing colon polyps and changes related to Barrett’s esophagus. ”
Dr. Cohen agrees, “The new scopes increase sensitivity for the detection of small of lesions.”
For more information on the Digestive Health Center, call 203-694-8585.
Tips to Reduce GERD Symptoms
Frequent heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD in adults, and anyone experiencing heartburn more than twice a week may suffer from GERD. Other symptoms include dry cough, asthma-like symptoms, or trouble swallowing.
Medications and lifestyle changes may help reduce your symptoms. Tips include quitting smoking, losing weight, eating small meals, and avoiding lying down for three hours after a meal.
Common foods to avoid: Citrus fruits, Chocolate, Alcohol, Caffeine, Fried foods, Garlic and onions, Mint flavorings
Spicy foods,Tomato-based foods
If you’ve been using antacids for more than two weeks, it’s time to see your doctor. Contact the Digestive Health Center at MidState Medical Center, 694-8585 for expert, personalized care.
Each year more than 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, but one test can prevent this from happening to you. At age 50, every man and woman at average risk should receive this life saving test, but many people avoid the procedure for fear of pain and discomfort.
Gary Cohen, MD, and medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center, explains that getting a colonoscopy is not as bad as it seems: “Modern methodology makes it a rarity to experience discomfort during a colonoscopy. People say the worst part is the preparation, but that’s something we have to do. At the most, getting a colonoscopy results in an evening spent at home from the frequent trips to the bathroom.”
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening, and it cannot only detect cancer early, but prevent the occurrence of it altogether. Dr. Cohen stressed, “It’s essentially one stop shopping because if we find potentially precancerous growths, they can be removed immediately.”
Unless your risk is high due to family history or other factors, patients with a first-time negative diagnosis will not need to undergo another colonscopy for ten years. A half-hour procedure seems a small commitment for a lifetime of good health.
Health Notes
MidState Ready
MidState Medical Center takes emergency preparedness seriously and thinks you should too. One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a potential disaster is organize an emergency supply kit. The United States Department of Homeland Security suggests that there be three days worth of supplies in your kit.
Some basic items for a kit include one gallon of water per person for each day (drinking and sanitation), non-perishable food and can opener, battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid kit, whistle to signal for help, dusk mask to filter contaminated air, plastic sheeting and duct tape for shelter-in-place, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation, wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, and local maps.
To learn more, visit MidState Ready at www.midstatemedical.org.
Blood Pressure Basics
Blood pressure is the measure of the force of your blood against the walls of your arteries. Ideal blood pressure should be below 140/90. If high blood pressure is left untreated, it can damage your blood vessels without you knowing or feeling it. Damaged blood vessels can lead to heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease.
Tips on how to lower high blood pressure:
Quit smoking
Lose weight—it is the best way to lower blood pressure
Make dietary changes by eating more fruits and veggies
Cut back on salt. Use spices, herbs, or lemon to flavor foods.
Limit alcohol intake
Take blood pressure pills when prescribed by your health care provider
Registered dieticians at MidState Medical Center can help you lower your blood pressure by working with you to customize a meal plan that best meets your needs. To schedule an appointment, call 694-8782.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, treatable lung disease that affects the air passages and makes breathing difficult. About 12 million Americans have it, and another 12 million may have COPD and not know it. Certain conditions raise the likelihood of getting COPD, such as:
Being a current or former smoker
Long term or heavy exposure to dusts, fumes, or chemicals that irritate the lungs
A genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Early detection and treatment can slow the progress of the disease and improve quality of life. Spirometry is one of the best and most common lung function tests. The test is done with a spirometer, a machine that measures how well your lungs function, records the results, and displays them on a graph for your doctor. Your doctor will read the results to assess how well your lungs are working and whether or not you have COPD.
Breast Cancer Awareness
American Cancer Society research published in The John Hopkins Medical Letter suggests that women with a high lifetime risk for breast cancer should get an annual MRI in addition to a mammogram.
Factors that increase risk include:
Strong family history, particularly a mother or sister with the disease
Mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Parent, child, or sibling with a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Hormonal, menstrual and childbirth histories
Results of a prior biopsy may suggest a higher risk
Radiation treatment to the chest for Hodgkin’s disease between the ages 10 and 30
Call 203-694-8984 to schedule your annual MRI at MidState.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is marked by impaired blood flow from the heart to the extremities’ muscles and organs. Arteries narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits (artherosclerosis) is the most prevalent cause of PAD. Pains in the thigh or calf are common symptoms and occur because the working muscles need more blood. Risk factors for PAD include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, and older age. However in many instances, it can be treated successfully.
Using Medications Correctly
Experts report that 50% of all patients make potentially dangerous mistakes when taking their medications. Here are some tips to follow. Keep track of the names (both generic and brand names) and dosages of any medications you take. If you need large print directions, ask. If the directions are confusing, ask your doctor or pharmacist for an explanation. Even if you don’t receive special instructions, avoid common medicine mistakes like crushing or chewing medications without checking with your doctor or measuring doses with a kitchen spoon instead of a measuring spoon. Ask about the potential for drug interactions. Even a glass of grapefruit juice can hinder the effectiveness of certain medication. Keep on the directed dosage schedule for best results.
MidState Medical Center offers wallet medication cards to help patients and community members track their medication use and dosage. Information regarding immunizations, doctors, allergies, and pharmacies can also be tracked. Call 203-694-8733 for a wallet medication card or visit our Web site at http://www.midstatemedical.org/HealthInformation/Medication.sdpx to print one at home.
Focus, Winter 2008
Digestive Health
Head: Diagnosing GERD just got easier
Body: Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at MidState’s Digestive Health Center is about to get easier for patients this year with the arrival of the Bravo pH Monitoring System, an advanced technology that makes diagnosis more accurate and comfortable.
In order to make a definitive diagnosis for GERD, pH testing of the esophagus is necessary, but many patients avoid testing due to the discomfort of the traditional procedure, in which catheters are inserted through the nose and down the esophagus. The Bravo system is a welcomed alternative that causes patients generally no distress.
Additionally, patients are able to maintain a normal diet and activity level during testing, leading to increased compliance.
“The Bravo system essentially makes testing quicker and easier for patients,” said Gary Cohen, MD, medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center.
David Sack, MD, gastroenterologist, explained the procedure: “A probe is briefly inserted into the esophagus and a small pH capsule is attached to the lining. The capsule then sends back radio signals via a pager-sized receiver worn by the patient. Data from the receiver is uploaded to computer software, which allows us to measure acid exposure in the esophagus and determine if symptoms are due to reflux. The capsule falls off after two or three days, and patients naturally pass it.”
The patient-friendly system allows physicians to monitor pH levels for 48 hours, the preferred time frame for classification of GERD. “About one-third of our patients come to us with upper GI issues. This technology adds to our ability to properly diagnose acid problems.”
This year the Digestive Health Center will also acquire new scopes. Likened to a high-definition television, Dr. Sack said, the new scopes will offer better views of the GI tract: “The wider angle views allow us to do procedures more comfortably and efficiently. They’ll be particularly helpful in recognizing colon polyps and changes related to Barrett’s esophagus. ”
Dr. Cohen agrees, “The new scopes increase sensitivity for the detection of small of lesions.”
For more information on the Digestive Health Center, call 203-694-8585.
You Can Find Comprehensive Cancer Information All In One Place
The Cancer Center at MidState now has its own unique URL on the Internet. By visiting the new site, you’ll find detailed information on early cancer detection and diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and patient and family support programs. Everything you need to know can be found in this one convenient location. We encourage you to visit the site and read about our integrated, patient-focused approach and our efforts in prevention, education, and outreach. Visit us today at www.midstatecancercenter.com.
Find MidState Medical Center in Your Community
MidState Medical Center has offices in Meriden, Cheshire, Wallingford, and Southington to make access to quality health care convenient for our patients. Below are our locations:
MediQuick in Meriden
Part of MidState’s Emergency Services, MediQuick is a walk-in center able to care for minor illnesses and injuries such as sore throat, earache, sinus pain, minor burns, rashes, back pain, the flu or a minor sports injury. In most cases, you can be treated by a doctor and be on your way in less than 35 minutes.
MediQuick is located at 883 Paddock Avenue. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily, except for holidays. Call 203-630-5290.
MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center in Wallingford The MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center offers treatment for a wide range of conditions and illnesses: colds and sore throats, sinus pain and headaches, earaches and fevers, cuts and bruises, muscular aches and pains, sprains and minor fractures, rashes and minor burns, and other conditions. In addition to meeting minor urgent care needs, services include continuing care of chronic diseases, complete annual physicals, pre-operative physicals, and school/camp/sports physicals. Naturally, if you have a major medical emergency, we recommend that you seek treatment at the MidState Medical Center Emergency Department.
The Walk-In Center is conveniently located at 60 Church Street in Wallingford. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday. Call 203-284-9099.
MidState Medical Group in Southington
Located at 51 North Main Street, James Seely, MD, and Christina Plantier, PA, provide medical oversight at our Southington office. New patients are welcome and most insurance is accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 860-621-6704.
Diagnostic & Specialty Center of Cheshire Our Diagnostic & Specialty Center is located at 680 South Main Street.
Diagnostic & Specialty Center of Southington
Our Diagnostic & Specialty Center is located at 991 South Main Street.
MidState VNA & Hospice MidState VNA & Hospice offers comprehensive services in homecare, community health, and end-of-life care. Call 203-235-5714 for more information.
Open MRI Makes Diagnosis Comfortable and Efficient
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of the head and body. Doctors use these detailed, clear images to identify and diagnose a wide range of conditions:
Brain tumors, strokes and chronic disorders of the nervous system
Brain abnormalities in people with dementia
Diseases of the pituitary gland
Eye or inner ear tissue abnormalities
Damage caused by heart attack or heart disease
Blood vessel plaques and blockages
Bone and joint damage
Bone and joint infections, injuries, degenerative disorders and tumors
Tumors and functional disorders in organs such as the lungs, liver, pancreas, kidney and spleen
Breast cancer
Reproductive system and bladder problems
Currently, MidState is utilizing an open MRI machine—a new state-of-the-art piece of equipment that make diagnosis faster, more comfortable, and more accurate than traditional MRI technology. What does this mean for our patients? It means they never have to second-guess the quality of their care.
Whereas many dated MRI machines are cramped and make for an uncomfortable procedure, our new advanced mobile open MRI machine can accommodate patients of all shapes and sizes while eliminating the fear of tight spaces and enhancing overall patient comfort.
Acquired last June, the open MRI provides patients with nearly one foot of surrounding free space without comprising image quality. Now a patient up to 550 pounds can receive an MRI that produces clear and detailed images comparable to machines with narrower openings.
In addition to the added accuracy and comfort, MidState’s new open MRI also increases patient convenience. Unlike traditional open MRI machines, our high-field strength open MRI can produce images in 15-20 minutes, not one hour.
The open MRI also becomes a timesaver when considering that some claustrophobic patients need to be sedated for the procedure. An estimated 20% of patients undergoing an MRI deal with some level of discomfort during the scan, and an additional 10% cannot proceed with the MRI due to extreme fear. The open MRI can eliminate the fear of closed-in spaces and the inconvenience associated with sedation, resulting in a faster procedure time for the patient.
Take control with help from MidState’s Spine & Pain Institute
When pain moves into your life, it changes everything. It may be pain in your neck, your back, or anywhere in your body. The fact is that if you suffer from chronic pain, it affects every aspect of your life. The professionals at the MidState Spine and Pain Institute are here to provide you with the treatment needed to minimize the impact of your pain. Using an interdisciplinary approach, as well as the most advanced medical therapies available, our team has the experience and skill to diagnose your condition and provide a goal-oriented treatment program that will help you enjoy a better quality of life. If pain has compromised your life, we offer comfort, relief, and control.
The specialists at MidState’s Spine and Pain Institute are experienced in the treatment of all forms of pain: back and neck pain (including sciatica, spinal stenosis, failed back surgery, arthritic conditions, pinched nerves, muscle spasms), work injuries, cancer pain, shingles, reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), nerve injury pain, and joint pain, as well as other acute and chronic pain conditions.
Treatment at the Spine and Pain Institute can include a wide range of medical, psychological, and rehabilitative services:
Functional/work restoration
Physical therapy
Pharmacologic consulting
Diagnostic and therapeutic nerve blocks
Trigger point/muscle relaxant injections
Epidural steroid injection
Diagnostic discography
Radiofrequency (RF) therapy
Cryotherapy (freezing) treatment
Pain management coping skills
Relaxation Techniques
Muscle biofeedback
Our interdisciplinary team consists of physicians, RNs, psychologists, and physical therapists who will join forces to develop an effective plan of treatment specifically designed for your condition.
Most insurance carriers cover services at the Spine and Pain Institute. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call 203-694-8414.
For some people living with chronic pain, the click of a remote can offer relief
Each and every day, more than 70 million Americans suffer from chronic pain. That’s more than the number of people affected by diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined. What’s even more astounding is the impact of pain on everyday living—people’s ability to walk, work, and do the things they love.
When conservative therapies fail to alleviate pain, technology offered at MidState’s Spine & Pain Institute can help. One of the most advanced interventional treatment options available is a spinal cord stimulator, and it can offer a 50 – 75% reduction in pain, when given to the right candidates.
The device works by using a needle to position electrodes along the spine, which according to Dean Mariano, DO, disrupts the pain signals in the body and replaces it with a more tolerable tingling or massage sensation. A remote control is used to adjust the strength of sensations felt, in essence creating bionic characteristics among its users.
The battery implanted in the body runs like a pacemaker, said Dr. Mariano, and produces no side affects other than reduced pain. It is even rechargeable and every nine years, a pad placed over the skin can give it new life.
Patients interested in spinal cord stimulators must undergo a rigorous assessment to determine if the treatment is right for them, and if it is, they can essentially “try it before they buy it” during a trial process that lasts 4-5 days. This non-invasive procedure does not involve implantation, but an epidural and a battery worn externally. If patients feel the stimulator is offering relief, they can move forward with the surgical procedure within a month.
The use of spinal cord stimulators has not always been this robust. Dr. Mariano explained, “The device has been around for more than 20 years, but in the last five, we are expanding its indications for conditions like low back pain, nerve pain in the arms and legs, and pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.”
“Patients will never be pain free,” noted Dr. Mariano, “but we see success rates in the 80-90 percentiles with the right candidates. They will notice an overall long-term pain reduction and an improved quality of life that allows them increased functional capabilities.”
The key to success with the device is establishing goals for sustained pain control. Patients with implanted spinal cord stimulators will be unable to participate in high impact sports, but they can maintain a normal life with realistic goals. According to Dr. Mariano, “People can do things they enjoy, things like spending time with their grandkids.”
Medical Transportation for Meriden Seniors
The City of Meriden Advisory Board on Aging is currently publicizing transportation resources for Meriden senior citizens who are going to medical appointments. Information is being sent to medical offices, churches and other common community organizations. The Board has identified the following medical transportation options for Meriden seniors. You may wish to clip this article to keep for future reference. Please call the number(s) listed for the service you desire.
1. Meriden Senior Citizens Center (237-3338). Transportation for Meriden residents aged 55 and over to medical appointments in Meriden. 24-hour advance notice required. Funded by the City of Meriden, the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and the CT Dept. of Transportation. No fee for the service, contributions accepted.
2. American Red Cross, Wallingford/Meriden branch (265-6721). Transportation to out-of-town (outside Meriden) medical appointments. One week advance notice requested. Partially funded by grants from the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and United Way of Meriden and Wallingford. No fee, contributions accepted.
3. Northeast Transportation Co. (ADA Paratransit Program) (1-800-441-8901). Transportation to medical appointments in Meriden and Wallingford. Riders must complete an application to verify that a disability makes it difficult to use the fixed bus route. Fee charged.
4. American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345). Volunteer drivers provide transportation for cancer patients to medical appointments. Three business days advance notice is requested.
5. Meriden Transit District (235-6851). Fixed route local bus service in Meriden with connections to Wallingford, Middletown, New Britain and New Haven. Special fare for senior citizens aged 65 and over with Medicare card or Transit ID card.
The Meriden Advisory Board on Aging meets monthly at the Meriden Senior Center, 22 West Main St., Meriden. Please call the Center at 237-0066 for questions about the Board's activities.
A new state-of-the-art Digital Mobile Mammography Van has arrived at Yale-New Haven Hospital. The Digital Mobile Mammography Van provides women over 40 with the convenience of rapid diagnosis and access to the most up-to-date technology thereby making it easier for working women to obtain their annual screening exams. YNHH’s expert mammography technologists deliver personal, friendly and confidential care to every woman. Call (203) 688-6800 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
The van will be at the following locations from 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM on the following dates. Please call 688-6800 to schedule an appointment.
Wallingford YMCA 815 Elm St, Wallingford February 29 and Wallingford VNA 135 North Plain Industrial Rd, Wallingford March 26
Women’s Day of Wellness
As a woman, you have special health needs that make you unique. And at MidState Medical Center, we strive to enhance the emotional, physical and cognitive well-being of women across the life span. Our upcoming Women’s Day of Wellness program enables women of all ages to educate themselves on healthy lifestyles so that they can become active participants in their healthcare.
This great and interactive event will be held on Saturday, April 26, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Four Points Sheraton in Meriden.
Upon registration, you will have the opportunity to select from groups of one-hour breakout sessions that include:
· Nip and Tuck-What Plastic Surgery Can Do for You
· Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
· Pain is a 4 Letter Word
· Women and Stroke Prevention
· The Healthy Heart-Women and Heart Disease
· The Importance of Exercise
· Integrative Therapies
· A New Weigh of Life-Weight Management
· Pause and Effect-Dealing with Symptoms of Menopause
· Taking Charge of Diabetes
· Keeping Abreast-What’s new in Breast Cancer Prevention
· The “Sandwich Generation”-When You’re Caught between Caring for Your Children and Your Aging Parents
Kris Carr, keynote speaker and author of the best-selling book Crazy, Sexy, Cancer, will also discuss her battle with a rare form of the disease. Her inspirational story of survival is filled with courage, strength and humor.
Cost for this program is $50, and includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and copy of Kris Carr’s book. Call Kathy Clements at 203-694-8463 to register, or email her at kclemen@midstatemedical.org. Come join us for this enlightening day of learning and relaxing—and bring you mother, daughter, sister, and girlfriends!
Energy Medicine: What it is and What it Does
Although it has been practiced for thousands of years in other parts of the world, energy medicine is only now beginning, albeit gradually, to become a known reality in this country. What is happening as well, and perhaps what is supporting this awakening, is that the field is becoming progressively more diverse. As with main stream medicine, which has a wide variety of approaches to health care such as family medicine, cardiology, pediatrics, endocrinology, and neurology, energy medicine encompasses a broad spectrum as well.
Within the field of energy medicine, there are practitioners who work solely with the Biofield, a non-specific energetic field which exists in and around the body. (It is through the biofield that we experience those electrical charges which can shock us unexpectedly when we touch something.) The biofield is composed of all the means of energy flow that exist in our system, from every time we move, we breathe, or our heart beats and our organs function. Approaches such as Reiki and Therapeutic Touch are examples of those who deal with this larger, less defined or specific expression of energy.
There are also practitioners who focus solely on the Meridians which are lines of energy similar to garden hoses which run throughout our bodies. Many meridians, although certainly not all, are identified with organs. In China and Japan, for example, meridians are considered traditional points of focus in working with one who is ill and in need of balancing or healing. Within this approach to energy medicine, the elements of Fire, Earth, Metal or Air, Water and Wood are considered the basics elements of life and are considered to be reflected in various body parts. From this perspective, the water element of life, for example, is considered to be reflected in the organ pair of Bladder and Kidney. From this pair of organs there are energy lines, or Meridians, that are well-defined and which flow from the head to the foot and back. Because these two organs work as a pair, if one is deficient, the other may be excessive. The objective in working with the meridians or other energy channels is to bring balance first within the pair discussed and then directly or indirectly between each of the pairs and the many other energy flows in the system as well. Research has shown that each of the meridians or channels are reflective of not only physical but also emotional stresses that are impacting the body. Consequently, when we receive Acupuncture (with hair-thin needles) or Acupressure (without needles) the intent is to balance our bodies multi-dimensionally supporting a healthy energetic flow on all levels.
In addition, the Chakras, a Hindu word for other energy centers in the body which are cone or wheel shaped, are another focus of energy flow that particular practitioners focus on. Although there are hundreds of chakras throughout our system, some large and some small, most chakra work focuses on the seven major chakras in our system. They run from the base of the body at the peritoneum, to the crown of the head with pairs that exist between these locations within the abdomen, the solar plexus, the heart, the throat, and in the forehead. Each of these chakras feed the organs or systems they are related to and that exist within their physical scope. As with the meridians, these are multi-dimensional realities. Each has unique physical, emotional, and spiritual implications for your system, in a very healthy way if they are working and in a very unhealthy way if they are not. There are practitioners who work solely with this source of energy flows in the
There are numerous books on the market which discuss these various flows in great detail. Carolyn Myss has a book entitled Anatomy of the Spirit which describes some of this work. Anodea Judith has a comprehensive book entitled Eastern Body/Western Mind which discusses the blend of each of these levels of the energy field and how they interact. As you read, you will see that they are all distinct and yet they are all one.
Rather than being a new concept, or something unfamiliar, most of us have already experienced in the energy in our body and yet never identified it as such. We already know how the energy in our body is supposed to feel without even realizing it. This is demonstrated when we sense something is not right yet when we go to the doctor, he/she cannot find anything wrong. It is an example of our own intuition (inner knowing), our own awareness of our body on an energetic level, coming into action. On a deeper level than we are usually conscious of, we sense an imbalance in our body, yet it cannot be detected through
traditional medical tests. That is because all disease and disorder begins on an energetic level. When this sense of imbalance is still solely on an energetic level and is not yet in the physical body, we are aware of it yet it is not yet physically visible by those who have been trained to see it. It is at this initial point that it is the ideal time to deal with the problem with minimal impact on your life. What cannot be detected by an EEG or an EKG for example, can be detected by a well-trained practitioner.
To fully understand this work, the work of Energy Medicine, it is important to know that everything that exists, that we see, sense or feel, is made up of energy. Our physical bodies are simply energy slowed down to a state that creates physical mass. The unique blend of that mass is what creates our individuality. In its natural state, energy is fluid, flowing, and vibrant, the way we feel when we are healthy and well-rested. When it is not, something has gone wrong, minimally or in a major way. When we are sick or have a disease, an energetic block has developed somewhere in the physical body, or the energy flow is minimized or deficient thus, the body is not able to function as it is meant to. Often the energy simply needs to be balanced or a block may need to be released.
Every thought you have ever had is an energetic reality. Every feeling you have ever had is an energetic reality. When you do not deal with these, when you decide that you are not supposed to think or feel “that way” and block it, hold it in, you literally stagnate that energy flow thus creating something similar to an energetic cyst in your system. That cyst can be dissolved with the energy re-assimilated into your system so that things flow freely again. This can be done in working as a generalist with the biofield, or as a specialist in working with the meridians or the chakras. Whether you learn how to release that block yourself or see a practitioner to do it for you, it is extremely beneficial to see someone who can help you understand your own energy patterns and the ways in which you, specifically, hold or utilize your energy.
Energy Medicine is the approach to health care which works on this level. It works with these flows to support health in your body on all levels. The degree to which a practitioner can impact these flows as well as educate you to your own process depends, however, on how well he or she is trained, the depth of their knowledge of the energy flows, their intent, and their ability to see, sense, or intuit what most needs to be done during any particular session.
An Energy Medicine Practitioner assesses the energy flow within and around a person’s physical body to determine where there are any blocks, deficiencies, excesses or stagnations in their energy field. Based on this assessment, a practitioner uses specific techniques to realign and balance the energy field to help restore health and well-being on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. Depending upon their training they will work with any of the particular flows listed above. Usually practitioners are trained in only one of the approaches listed above.
However some have trained in one, two, three, or more approaches to the energy field. As stated above, some work with the general energy flows alone, trusting that you will innately know specifically where it needs to be balanced. Others work very specifically following the flows to see the extent to which there is imbalance and will work throughout the level of the system they are trained in, following as your body leads them.
Others, such as those trained in the W.I.S.E. Method™ are trained to work with all levels of energy flow, the biofield, the meridians, and he chakras, and to support you in understanding what is happening for you during those times of onset of a disease or disorder or at the times in which there is an exacerbation, or worsening, of the symptoms. We each have our own vulnerabilities, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, and we each have our own patterns of illness, chronic and acute. Understanding how your body responds to stress, allows you to see the patterns you have developed over the years, based on how you hold your energy, how it flows within your body, and how you react or respond to the events of your life. That understanding has an amazing ability to support you in taking your life back and in seeing that your life and your health is far more under your control than you realize. Learning to listen to your body, to be aware of your energy, supports you in going to be tired rather than exhausted. That level of awareness, allows you to notice immediately when something doesn’t feel well. Developing the tools, the life skills, necessary to support your own health, gives you a far greater chance of dealing with issues when they are beginning rather than when you are too weak, frightened, or vulnerable to do so. A comprehensive approach to energy medicine can heal as well as educate. As a form of wholistic health, it deals with the whole person, intellectually, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Also, as a form of wholistic health, and a wholistic approach to health, it is an aspect of integrative health working in partnership, rather than competition, with main stream medicine, helping to provide a full approach to health care and education for patients as well as medical practitioners, whatever their training.
Finally, amazingly, this form of healing is a skill we all possess naturally, as embodied souls. Don’t you instinctively, energetically, want to help someone who looks stressed or overwhelmed? Don’t you want to offer tea or a drink to someone who is distraught? If someone is hurt, don’t you instinctively want to touch the wound and sooth it? Isn’t it natural, to wish you could take the pain from someone you love? For some, they have followed that urge, that instinct and taken it to the next level through energy medicine. They have spent a period of time, varying from one day to four years or more in which they have studied to truly understand this work and to have the ability to work in-depth in the healing as well as the education of a client/patient. They recognize the importance of energy medicine in supporting or recreating a natural free-flowing energy pattern within a client/patient’s body that best supports them living their life, fully alive, passionately and vibrantly. It supports living rather than surviving. At its best, it deals with the deepest and most natural connection to the self, making it possible for you to be all that you are called to be.
Dorothy A. Martin-Neville, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, EMP is the founder and CEO of The Institute of Healing Arts and Sciences, Inc. and the creator of The W.I.S.E Method™. She is a Clinical Instructor at The University of Connecticut Medical School. Dr. Martin-Neville has been Co-Chair of the Advisory Board of an NIH funded multi-million dollar Frontier Medicine Grant and has received NIH grant funding to research the W.I.S.E. Method™ with Fibromyalgia patients.
Celebrate Earth Day!
Earth day is everyday! But what does that mean really? Earth Day was first celebrated in April 1970 as a way to draw attention to the fact that we were polluting the earth and using its resources without any thought of future generations. In fact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established at the same time period as result of visual pollutants. It didn’t require a PhD to see the water in the river and streams was running brown and was no longer “fish-able or swim-able” or that the blue sky was suddenly gray with smog. The first Earth Day celebration was intended as a peaceful demonstration to let the politicians know that the public understood and were deeply concerned over the deterioration of our environment and the mindless dissipation of our resources.
The response was overwhelming, from DC to California, millions of people turned out to show their support and left a permanent impact on the politics of America. The Earth Day movement thrust the issue of environmental quality and resource conservation into the political dialogue of the Nation. It showed the political and opinion leadership of the country that the people cared, that they were ready for political action, that the politicians had better get ready, too. In short, Earth Day launched the Environmental decade with a bang. (EPA.gov)
Earth Day celebrations are planned every year and involve river or trail clean-ups and educational “Lunch and Learn” programs. The Clean Water Act of 1972 has greatly impacted our water. As an adjunct at SCSU, I have student research a body of water that was previously polluted and present an overview of the history, clean-up activities and current uses of the water system. I have very few students select the same water system. So what does that mean? It means that we have an abundant of rivers/lake that were polluted but are now swim-able or fishable. It also means we truly have come along way with recognizing our faults and taking action to reclaim our environment.
There are several local organizations very active in area of environmental issues. The QRWA is a wonderful local organization concerned with the condition of the Quinnipiac River. I had the enjoyment of joining them one year a canoe trip through North Haven. It was an awesome experience to see the nesting boxes along the water way and to learn about continued efforts to restore the river. There is also the River Alliance Organization focused on the Housatonic River, the Save the Sound Organization and the CT Fund for the Environment, all of which provide educational and active clean-up efforts. Come out to the Wallingford Health Dept “Lunch and Learn” at the Wallingford Library on April 8th to hear more.
So what can you do? Recycle! Did you know that paper is #1 item in our landfills? What a waste of a limited resource, land! Teach your children not to litter, I can’t tell you how many times I see someone throw a wrapper or a cigarette butt out of a car window. My nephews (now all grown with kids of there own), tell stories how I made them pick-up litter on the street because they threw a candy wrapper while we were taking one of our many walks (of course they affectionately refer to our walks as “death marches”).
Fun Earth Day Facts: It takes 2 gallons of water to brush your teeth if you leave the water running. SO turn off the water and you’ll save both water lower your water bill. Did you know it takes about 20 gallons of water to wash dishes by hand but only 10 gallons when you use a dishwasher (full load of coarse)? The first US census was in 1790 and was taken by U.S. marshals on horseback and counted 3.9 million people. Census 2000 counted more than 281 million people. Population increase equates to decreased land and natural resources. So walk more, drive less and you’ll help to reduce auto emissions/smog, fuel usage and get healthier in the process. Now THAT’S a good by-product!
Enjoy spring and take the time to enjoy all that Earth has to offer, together we can Mother Mother Earth.
Eloise Hudd
Wallingford Health Dept.
Cancer care is only a click away
The Cancer Center at MidState now has its own unique URL on the web. By visiting the new site, you’ll find detailed information on early cancer detection and diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and patient and family support programs. Best of all, everything you need to know can be found in this one convenient location. We are proud of our Cancer Center and its ability to offer our patients comprehensive cancer care close to home. Read about our integrated, patient-focused approach and our efforts in prevention, education, and outreach. Visit us today at www.midstatecancercenter.com.
Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD) at MidState’s Digestive Health Center is about to get easier for patients this year with the arrival of the Bravo pH Monitoring System, an advanced technology that makes diagnosis more accurate and comfortable.
In order to make a definitive diagnosis for GERD, pH testing of the esophagus is necessary, but many patients avoid testing due to the discomfort of the traditional procedure, in which catheters are inserted through the nose and down the esophagus. The Bravo system is a welcomed alternative that causes patients generally no distress.
Additionally, patients are able to maintain a normal diet and activity level during testing, leading to increased compliance.
“The Bravo system essentially makes testing quicker and easier for patients,” said Gary Cohen, MD, medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center.
David Sack, MD, gastroenterologist, explained the procedure: “A probe is briefly inserted into the esophagus and a small pH capsule is attached to the lining. The capsule then sends back radio signals via a pager-sized receiver worn by the patient. Data from the receiver is uploaded to computer software, which allows us to measure acid exposure in the esophagus and determine if symptoms are due to reflux. The capsule falls off after two or three days, and patients naturally pass it.”
The patient-friendly system allows physicians to monitor pH levels for 48 hours, the preferred time frame for classification of GERD. “About one-third of our patients come to us with upper GI issues. This technology adds to our ability to properly diagnose acid problems.”
This year the Digestive Health Center will also acquire new scopes. Likened to a high-definition television, Dr. Sack said, the new scopes will offer better views of the GI tract: “The wider angle views allow us to do procedures more comfortably and efficiently. They’ll be particularly helpful in recognizing colon polyps and changes related to Barrett’s esophagus. ”
Dr. Cohen agrees, “The new scopes increase sensitivity for the detection of small of lesions.”
For more information on the Digestive Health Center, call 203-694-8585.
Tips to Reduce GERD Symptoms
Frequent heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD in adults, and anyone experiencing heartburn more than twice a week may suffer from GERD. Other symptoms include dry cough, asthma-like symptoms, or trouble swallowing.
Medications and lifestyle changes may help reduce your symptoms. Tips include quitting smoking, losing weight, eating small meals, and avoiding lying down for three hours after a meal.
Common foods to avoid: Citrus fruits, Chocolate, Alcohol, Caffeine, Fried foods, Garlic and onions, Mint flavorings
Spicy foods,Tomato-based foods
If you’ve been using antacids for more than two weeks, it’s time to see your doctor. Contact the Digestive Health Center at MidState Medical Center, 694-8585 for expert, personalized care.
Each year more than 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, but one test can prevent this from happening to you. At age 50, every man and woman at average risk should receive this life saving test, but many people avoid the procedure for fear of pain and discomfort.
Gary Cohen, MD, and medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center, explains that getting a colonoscopy is not as bad as it seems: “Modern methodology makes it a rarity to experience discomfort during a colonoscopy. People say the worst part is the preparation, but that’s something we have to do. At the most, getting a colonoscopy results in an evening spent at home from the frequent trips to the bathroom.”
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening, and it cannot only detect cancer early, but prevent the occurrence of it altogether. Dr. Cohen stressed, “It’s essentially one stop shopping because if we find potentially precancerous growths, they can be removed immediately.”
Unless your risk is high due to family history or other factors, patients with a first-time negative diagnosis will not need to undergo another colonscopy for ten years. A half-hour procedure seems a small commitment for a lifetime of good health.
Health Notes
MidState Ready
MidState Medical Center takes emergency preparedness seriously and thinks you should too. One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a potential disaster is organize an emergency supply kit. The United States Department of Homeland Security suggests that there be three days worth of supplies in your kit.
Some basic items for a kit include one gallon of water per person for each day (drinking and sanitation), non-perishable food and can opener, battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid kit, whistle to signal for help, dusk mask to filter contaminated air, plastic sheeting and duct tape for shelter-in-place, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation, wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, and local maps.
To learn more, visit MidState Ready at www.midstatemedical.org.
Blood Pressure Basics
Blood pressure is the measure of the force of your blood against the walls of your arteries. Ideal blood pressure should be below 140/90. If high blood pressure is left untreated, it can damage your blood vessels without you knowing or feeling it. Damaged blood vessels can lead to heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease.
Tips on how to lower high blood pressure:
Quit smoking
Lose weight—it is the best way to lower blood pressure
Make dietary changes by eating more fruits and veggies
Cut back on salt. Use spices, herbs, or lemon to flavor foods.
Limit alcohol intake
Take blood pressure pills when prescribed by your health care provider
Registered dieticians at MidState Medical Center can help you lower your blood pressure by working with you to customize a meal plan that best meets your needs. To schedule an appointment, call 694-8782.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, treatable lung disease that affects the air passages and makes breathing difficult. About 12 million Americans have it, and another 12 million may have COPD and not know it. Certain conditions raise the likelihood of getting COPD, such as:
Being a current or former smoker
Long term or heavy exposure to dusts, fumes, or chemicals that irritate the lungs
A genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Early detection and treatment can slow the progress of the disease and improve quality of life. Spirometry is one of the best and most common lung function tests. The test is done with a spirometer, a machine that measures how well your lungs function, records the results, and displays them on a graph for your doctor. Your doctor will read the results to assess how well your lungs are working and whether or not you have COPD.
Breast Cancer Awareness
American Cancer Society research published in The John Hopkins Medical Letter suggests that women with a high lifetime risk for breast cancer should get an annual MRI in addition to a mammogram.
Factors that increase risk include:
Strong family history, particularly a mother or sister with the disease
Mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Parent, child, or sibling with a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Hormonal, menstrual and childbirth histories
Results of a prior biopsy may suggest a higher risk
Radiation treatment to the chest for Hodgkin’s disease between the ages 10 and 30
Call 203-694-8984 to schedule your annual MRI at MidState.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is marked by impaired blood flow from the heart to the extremities’ muscles and organs. Arteries narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits (artherosclerosis) is the most prevalent cause of PAD. Pains in the thigh or calf are common symptoms and occur because the working muscles need more blood. Risk factors for PAD include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, and older age. However in many instances, it can be treated successfully.
Using Medications Correctly
Experts report that 50% of all patients make potentially dangerous mistakes when taking their medications. Here are some tips to follow. Keep track of the names (both generic and brand names) and dosages of any medications you take. If you need large print directions, ask. If the directions are confusing, ask your doctor or pharmacist for an explanation. Even if you don’t receive special instructions, avoid common medicine mistakes like crushing or chewing medications without checking with your doctor or measuring doses with a kitchen spoon instead of a measuring spoon. Ask about the potential for drug interactions. Even a glass of grapefruit juice can hinder the effectiveness of certain medication. Keep on the directed dosage schedule for best results.
MidState Medical Center offers wallet medication cards to help patients and community members track their medication use and dosage. Information regarding immunizations, doctors, allergies, and pharmacies can also be tracked. Call 203-694-8733 for a wallet medication card or visit our Web site at http://www.midstatemedical.org/HealthInformation/Medication.sdpx to print one at home.
Focus, Winter 2008
Digestive Health
Head: Diagnosing GERD just got easier
Body: Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at MidState’s Digestive Health Center is about to get easier for patients this year with the arrival of the Bravo pH Monitoring System, an advanced technology that makes diagnosis more accurate and comfortable.
In order to make a definitive diagnosis for GERD, pH testing of the esophagus is necessary, but many patients avoid testing due to the discomfort of the traditional procedure, in which catheters are inserted through the nose and down the esophagus. The Bravo system is a welcomed alternative that causes patients generally no distress.
Additionally, patients are able to maintain a normal diet and activity level during testing, leading to increased compliance.
“The Bravo system essentially makes testing quicker and easier for patients,” said Gary Cohen, MD, medical director of MidState’s Digestive Health Center.
David Sack, MD, gastroenterologist, explained the procedure: “A probe is briefly inserted into the esophagus and a small pH capsule is attached to the lining. The capsule then sends back radio signals via a pager-sized receiver worn by the patient. Data from the receiver is uploaded to computer software, which allows us to measure acid exposure in the esophagus and determine if symptoms are due to reflux. The capsule falls off after two or three days, and patients naturally pass it.”
The patient-friendly system allows physicians to monitor pH levels for 48 hours, the preferred time frame for classification of GERD. “About one-third of our patients come to us with upper GI issues. This technology adds to our ability to properly diagnose acid problems.”
This year the Digestive Health Center will also acquire new scopes. Likened to a high-definition television, Dr. Sack said, the new scopes will offer better views of the GI tract: “The wider angle views allow us to do procedures more comfortably and efficiently. They’ll be particularly helpful in recognizing colon polyps and changes related to Barrett’s esophagus. ”
Dr. Cohen agrees, “The new scopes increase sensitivity for the detection of small of lesions.”
For more information on the Digestive Health Center, call 203-694-8585.
You Can Find Comprehensive Cancer Information All In One Place
The Cancer Center at MidState now has its own unique URL on the Internet. By visiting the new site, you’ll find detailed information on early cancer detection and diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and patient and family support programs. Everything you need to know can be found in this one convenient location. We encourage you to visit the site and read about our integrated, patient-focused approach and our efforts in prevention, education, and outreach. Visit us today at www.midstatecancercenter.com.
Find MidState Medical Center in Your Community
MidState Medical Center has offices in Meriden, Cheshire, Wallingford, and Southington to make access to quality health care convenient for our patients. Below are our locations:
MediQuick in Meriden
Part of MidState’s Emergency Services, MediQuick is a walk-in center able to care for minor illnesses and injuries such as sore throat, earache, sinus pain, minor burns, rashes, back pain, the flu or a minor sports injury. In most cases, you can be treated by a doctor and be on your way in less than 35 minutes.
MediQuick is located at 883 Paddock Avenue. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily, except for holidays. Call 203-630-5290.
MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center in Wallingford The MidState Medical Group Walk-In Center offers treatment for a wide range of conditions and illnesses: colds and sore throats, sinus pain and headaches, earaches and fevers, cuts and bruises, muscular aches and pains, sprains and minor fractures, rashes and minor burns, and other conditions. In addition to meeting minor urgent care needs, services include continuing care of chronic diseases, complete annual physicals, pre-operative physicals, and school/camp/sports physicals. Naturally, if you have a major medical emergency, we recommend that you seek treatment at the MidState Medical Center Emergency Department.
The Walk-In Center is conveniently located at 60 Church Street in Wallingford. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday. Call 203-284-9099.
MidState Medical Group in Southington
Located at 51 North Main Street, James Seely, MD, and Christina Plantier, PA, provide medical oversight at our Southington office. New patients are welcome and most insurance is accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 860-621-6704.
Diagnostic & Specialty Center of Cheshire Our Diagnostic & Specialty Center is located at 680 South Main Street.
Diagnostic & Specialty Center of Southington
Our Diagnostic & Specialty Center is located at 991 South Main Street.
MidState VNA & Hospice MidState VNA & Hospice offers comprehensive services in homecare, community health, and end-of-life care. Call 203-235-5714 for more information.
Open MRI Makes Diagnosis Comfortable and Efficient
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of the head and body. Doctors use these detailed, clear images to identify and diagnose a wide range of conditions:
Brain tumors, strokes and chronic disorders of the nervous system
Brain abnormalities in people with dementia
Diseases of the pituitary gland
Eye or inner ear tissue abnormalities
Damage caused by heart attack or heart disease
Blood vessel plaques and blockages
Bone and joint damage
Bone and joint infections, injuries, degenerative disorders and tumors
Tumors and functional disorders in organs such as the lungs, liver, pancreas, kidney and spleen
Breast cancer
Reproductive system and bladder problems
Currently, MidState is utilizing an open MRI machine—a new state-of-the-art piece of equipment that make diagnosis faster, more comfortable, and more accurate than traditional MRI technology. What does this mean for our patients? It means they never have to second-guess the quality of their care.
Whereas many dated MRI machines are cramped and make for an uncomfortable procedure, our new advanced mobile open MRI machine can accommodate patients of all shapes and sizes while eliminating the fear of tight spaces and enhancing overall patient comfort.
Acquired last June, the open MRI provides patients with nearly one foot of surrounding free space without comprising image quality. Now a patient up to 550 pounds can receive an MRI that produces clear and detailed images comparable to machines with narrower openings.
In addition to the added accuracy and comfort, MidState’s new open MRI also increases patient convenience. Unlike traditional open MRI machines, our high-field strength open MRI can produce images in 15-20 minutes, not one hour.
The open MRI also becomes a timesaver when considering that some claustrophobic patients need to be sedated for the procedure. An estimated 20% of patients undergoing an MRI deal with some level of discomfort during the scan, and an additional 10% cannot proceed with the MRI due to extreme fear. The open MRI can eliminate the fear of closed-in spaces and the inconvenience associated with sedation, resulting in a faster procedure time for the patient.
Take control with help from MidState’s Spine & Pain Institute
When pain moves into your life, it changes everything. It may be pain in your neck, your back, or anywhere in your body. The fact is that if you suffer from chronic pain, it affects every aspect of your life. The professionals at the MidState Spine and Pain Institute are here to provide you with the treatment needed to minimize the impact of your pain. Using an interdisciplinary approach, as well as the most advanced medical therapies available, our team has the experience and skill to diagnose your condition and provide a goal-oriented treatment program that will help you enjoy a better quality of life. If pain has compromised your life, we offer comfort, relief, and control.
The specialists at MidState’s Spine and Pain Institute are experienced in the treatment of all forms of pain: back and neck pain (including sciatica, spinal stenosis, failed back surgery, arthritic conditions, pinched nerves, muscle spasms), work injuries, cancer pain, shingles, reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), nerve injury pain, and joint pain, as well as other acute and chronic pain conditions.
Treatment at the Spine and Pain Institute can include a wide range of medical, psychological, and rehabilitative services:
Functional/work restoration
Physical therapy
Pharmacologic consulting
Diagnostic and therapeutic nerve blocks
Trigger point/muscle relaxant injections
Epidural steroid injection
Diagnostic discography
Radiofrequency (RF) therapy
Cryotherapy (freezing) treatment
Pain management coping skills
Relaxation Techniques
Muscle biofeedback
Our interdisciplinary team consists of physicians, RNs, psychologists, and physical therapists who will join forces to develop an effective plan of treatment specifically designed for your condition.
Most insurance carriers cover services at the Spine and Pain Institute. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call 203-694-8414.
For some people living with chronic pain, the click of a remote can offer relief
Each and every day, more than 70 million Americans suffer from chronic pain. That’s more than the number of people affected by diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined. What’s even more astounding is the impact of pain on everyday living—people’s ability to walk, work, and do the things they love.
When conservative therapies fail to alleviate pain, technology offered at MidState’s Spine & Pain Institute can help. One of the most advanced interventional treatment options available is a spinal cord stimulator, and it can offer a 50 – 75% reduction in pain, when given to the right candidates.
The device works by using a needle to position electrodes along the spine, which according to Dean Mariano, DO, disrupts the pain signals in the body and replaces it with a more tolerable tingling or massage sensation. A remote control is used to adjust the strength of sensations felt, in essence creating bionic characteristics among its users.
The battery implanted in the body runs like a pacemaker, said Dr. Mariano, and produces no side affects other than reduced pain. It is even rechargeable and every nine years, a pad placed over the skin can give it new life.
Patients interested in spinal cord stimulators must undergo a rigorous assessment to determine if the treatment is right for them, and if it is, they can essentially “try it before they buy it” during a trial process that lasts 4-5 days. This non-invasive procedure does not involve implantation, but an epidural and a battery worn externally. If patients feel the stimulator is offering relief, they can move forward with the surgical procedure within a month.
The use of spinal cord stimulators has not always been this robust. Dr. Mariano explained, “The device has been around for more than 20 years, but in the last five, we are expanding its indications for conditions like low back pain, nerve pain in the arms and legs, and pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.”
“Patients will never be pain free,” noted Dr. Mariano, “but we see success rates in the 80-90 percentiles with the right candidates. They will notice an overall long-term pain reduction and an improved quality of life that allows them increased functional capabilities.”
The key to success with the device is establishing goals for sustained pain control. Patients with implanted spinal cord stimulators will be unable to participate in high impact sports, but they can maintain a normal life with realistic goals. According to Dr. Mariano, “People can do things they enjoy, things like spending time with their grandkids.”
Medical Transportation for Meriden Seniors
The City of Meriden Advisory Board on Aging is currently publicizing transportation resources for Meriden senior citizens who are going to medical appointments. Information is being sent to medical offices, churches and other common community organizations. The Board has identified the following medical transportation options for Meriden seniors. You may wish to clip this article to keep for future reference. Please call the number(s) listed for the service you desire.
1. Meriden Senior Citizens Center (237-3338). Transportation for Meriden residents aged 55 and over to medical appointments in Meriden. 24-hour advance notice required. Funded by the City of Meriden, the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and the CT Dept. of Transportation. No fee for the service, contributions accepted.
2. American Red Cross, Wallingford/Meriden branch (265-6721). Transportation to out-of-town (outside Meriden) medical appointments. One week advance notice requested. Partially funded by grants from the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and United Way of Meriden and Wallingford. No fee, contributions accepted.
3. Northeast Transportation Co. (ADA Paratransit Program) (1-800-441-8901). Transportation to medical appointments in Meriden and Wallingford. Riders must complete an application to verify that a disability makes it difficult to use the fixed bus route. Fee charged.
4. American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345). Volunteer drivers provide transportation for cancer patients to medical appointments. Three business days advance notice is requested.
5. Meriden Transit District (235-6851). Fixed route local bus service in Meriden with connections to Wallingford, Middletown, New Britain and New Haven. Special fare for senior citizens aged 65 and over with Medicare card or Transit ID card.
The Meriden Advisory Board on Aging meets monthly at the Meriden Senior Center, 22 West Main St., Meriden. Please call the Center at 237-0066 for questions about the Board's activities.
A new state-of-the-art Digital Mobile Mammography Van has arrived at Yale-New Haven Hospital. The Digital Mobile Mammography Van provides women over 40 with the convenience of rapid diagnosis and access to the most up-to-date technology thereby making it easier for working women to obtain their annual screening exams. YNHH’s expert mammography technologists deliver personal, friendly and confidential care to every woman. Call (203) 688-6800 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
The van will be at the following locations from 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM on the following dates. Please call 688-6800 to schedule an appointment.
Wallingford YMCA 815 Elm St, Wallingford February 29 and Wallingford VNA 135 North Plain Industrial Rd, Wallingford March 26
Women’s Day of Wellness
As a woman, you have special health needs that make you unique. And at MidState Medical Center, we strive to enhance the emotional, physical and cognitive well-being of women across the life span. Our upcoming Women’s Day of Wellness program enables women of all ages to educate themselves on healthy lifestyles so that they can become active participants in their healthcare.
This great and interactive event will be held on Saturday, April 26, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Four Points Sheraton in Meriden.
Upon registration, you will have the opportunity to select from groups of one-hour breakout sessions that include:
· Nip and Tuck-What Plastic Surgery Can Do for You
· Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
· Pain is a 4 Letter Word
· Women and Stroke Prevention
· The Healthy Heart-Women and Heart Disease
· The Importance of Exercise
· Integrative Therapies
· A New Weigh of Life-Weight Management
· Pause and Effect-Dealing with Symptoms of Menopause
· Taking Charge of Diabetes
· Keeping Abreast-What’s new in Breast Cancer Prevention
· The “Sandwich Generation”-When You’re Caught between Caring for Your Children and Your Aging Parents
Kris Carr, keynote speaker and author of the best-selling book Crazy, Sexy, Cancer, will also discuss her battle with a rare form of the disease. Her inspirational story of survival is filled with courage, strength and humor.
Cost for this program is $50, and includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and copy of Kris Carr’s book. Call Kathy Clements at 203-694-8463 to register, or email her at kclemen@midstatemedical.org. Come join us for this enlightening day of learning and relaxing—and bring you mother, daughter, sister, and girlfriends!
Labels: meriden wallingford newspaper, meriden wallingford newspaper news connecticut
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