Get Healthy Magazine

A PublicAtion of the times

ALSOChecking in with Marci and Courtney CrozierAn exercise a day keeps Alzheimer’s at baySpecial bonus section: Keeping your feet fit

MAY/JUNE 2012NWI.COM/GETHEALTHY

Technological advances in orthopedics, custom casts, and

a Hammond cop rebounds from shoulder surgery

TODD LARSON finally turned to shoulder surgery when he struggled to play catch with his children. Larson, who is in his fourteenth year with the Hammond Police Department, continues to strengthen his shoulder through rehabilitation.

A JOINT ISSUE

A JOINT ISSUE

Thanks to Porter’s Spine Center, Jenna’s on the road to recovery.

Back on track.Jenna’s on the road to recovery.Thanks to Porter’s Spine Center, Jenna’s on the road to recovery.

Back on track.Back on track.

When an old skiing injury turned Jenna’s love of running into an exercise

in pain, it became evident that she needed spine surgery. As a registered

nurse, Jenna trusted the Porter spine care team of skilled physicians,

nurses, anesthesiologists and rehab specialists, and chose them for her

surgery and recovery. Today she is training for a marathon and reports

that she’s “never felt better.” Want to get “back on track” too?

Visit porterhealth.com/backs or call 219.263.back (2225).

Orthopedic Institute

porterhealth.com/backs

The Spine Center

2 Hospitals. 350 Physicians. 7 Convenient Outpatient Locations.VALPARAISO | PORTAGE | CHESTERTON | HEBRON | DEMOTTE

Serving Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Starke, Newton and Jasper Counties.

Independent members of the medical staff at Porter.

Anton Thompkins, M.D.Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Nick Nenadovich, M.D.Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

IU Health LaPorte Physicians

Roman Filipowicz, M.D. Neurosurgeon

Individual results may vary. Please consult your physician.

Porter Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

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may/june 2012 | GET HEALTHY | 1

2 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

8what’s new

Robotic technology, a

Walk for Sojourner Truth House, and

new products

10survivor spotlight

Letha Bond survives stroke by knowing

the symptoms

12the body

shop

Yoga can benefit people with Type 2

diabetes

18on your mind

The positive effect of exercise

on preventing Alzheimer’s

30food & fitness

The mother/daughter duo

gives us an update on life after

The Biggest Loser

32ask the expert

Dr. Bruce J. Thoma discusses pediatric

orthopedics

4 letter from the editor | 6 health care advisory council | 14 well-being events

what’s newBy Vanessa Renderman

HEALTHY PRODUCTSTRUE BODY SOAPSTrue Body’s mission is to provide products that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, are produced in ways that are friendly to the environment, and that are fairly priced at $5.49 and widely accessible. True Body products are available in more than 300 stores.

The Body Bar (available in 3-packs, shown) contains just fi ve ingredients: responsibly sourced palm oil, coconut oil, water, vegetable glycerine, and sodium citrate.

The Facial Bar contains the same ingredients as the Body Bar, plus shea butter and polyglycerides derived from sunfl ower oil.

FYI: truebodyproducts.com

YOGA AND PILATES AT HOME• Rodney Yee’s A.M./P.M. Yoga for

Beginners: This updated version of one of Rodney’s most popular DVDs combines original routines with meditation. Featuring two workouts to strengthen, balance and revitalize mind and body, Rodney leads the A.M. practice, a series of energizing poses to help wake up the body and focus the mind, while his wife, Colleen Saidman, leads the P.M. practice, designed to help users wind down at the end of a busy day.

• Mari Winsor’s Lower Body Pilates: In her newest DVD, Mari Winsor features three practices focused on the areas of the body devoted clients ask for most: hips, thighs and glutes. With more than fi fty workout programs to her credit, this DVD is a compilation of Mari’s most effective Pilates and fi tness moves that target the hard-to-reach trouble zones of the lower body.

• Shiva Rea’s Mama & Baby Yoga: In her newest DVD with Gaiam, Shiva leads new mothers through yoga exercises specifi cally designed to tone and reshape the parts of the body that change the most during pregnancy. The practice differs from other post-natal workouts because it involves the baby in the routines, allowing the mother and child to bond throughout the practice. This DVD is ideal for mothers with infants 3-6 months.

DVDs are priced at $14.98 and available at retailers including ShopGaiam.com and Target.

COMOTOMO NATURAL-FEEL BABY BOTTLEThe transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding can be tough for Mom and baby, physically and emotionally. When the time comes to wean babies to the bottle, Comotomo makes the transition easier.

Comotomo’s bottles are made with silicone, which feels more like human skin, and are safe in boiling water and microwaves. The models are designed to look and feel natural, are easy to clean and are BPA free.

The silicone adds to the longevity. Doctors recommend that traditional baby bottles be swapped every three months because of the dangers of bacteria. Unlike plastic, Comotomo’s silicone body doesn’t scratch, which means bacteria can’t be captured in tiny cracks. And, silicone doesn’t have pores that can harbor bacteria.

The new bottles are available in green and pink, in two sizes: 150 mL for $15.99 and 250 mL for $16.99. Learn more at Amazon.com.

Local Health NewsAssist Sojourner Truth House

Fundraiser to help children

Calling all ‘Calendar Girls’

Hospital uses robotic cuts

tsurvivor spotlight

This awareness prompted the 79-year-old Gary resident to seek help immediately and she was able to arrive at Methodist Hospitals’ Northlake campus within an hour with assistance from her son, Gary Police Detective James Bond.

“Letha was having problems speaking and also having movement issues on the right side when she arrived at the hospital,” says Sherry Mosier, Methodist Hospitals’ stroke care coordinator.

Tests determined Letha was suffering from an ischemic stroke, where a clot was blocking blood fl ow to her brain.

Dr. Mayumi Oka, neurointerventional radiologist at Methodist Hospitals, says treatment includes two courses of action, depending on the patient’s own unique health history and issues, symptoms and timeframe of arriving at the hospital. “If a patient can come in within four-and-a-half hours of symptoms, an IV of t-PA [tissue plasminogen activator] can be administered in hopes of breaking up the clot and opening up the vessel,” Dr. Oka says. “With endovascular treatment of a stroke, we go in with the same medicine directly to where the clot is and administer small amounts of t-PA into the clot. We can do this up to eight hours of the onset of symptoms.”

While Letha arrived quickly at the hospital, she was on blood thinner Coumadin for an irregular heartbeat. Doctors determined that there would be a risk of complications if an IV dose of t-PA was administered to Letha. She was transferred to the hospital’s Southlake campus for the intervention method of treatment. “Through a catheter in her groin, I injected a little t-PA directly into the clot and was able to suction out the clot and leave the vessel clear,” Dr. Oka says.

“The next day, she was talking and back to her normal self,” Flossie says.

A cook until she retired, Letha has confronted health challenges over the years including a heart attack, two bouts of colon cancer and breast cancer. She

also has helped family members face their own health issues, including her husband, Walter, and her son, Larry, who both died of cancer.

“She brought my brother and dad home and took care of them until they passed away,” Flossie says. “When she has surgeries, she prays and puts it all in God’s hands and the doctor’s hands. She doesn’t have stress or worry.”

Flossie believes her mom’s “spunk” has kept her strong and the family is planning a big celebration for her 80th birthday on June 10. The family marks her birthdays in a greater fashion every fi ve years.

The birthday events usually include more than 300 people as Letha has seventeen children of her own and eight adopted children as well as 125 grandchildren and 135 great-grandchildren. “My mom adopted her sister’s kids when she died of breast cancer,” Flossie says.

Letha says she is a family person who believes family members should be close and when it comes down to it, they will all come together despite the ups and downs of life. “She loves her kids to death—every one of them,” Flossie says. “She takes care of everyone—that’s what she does.”

Mosier says Letha’s knowledge of symptoms and quick action are vital aspects of stroke awareness. “We need to educate the community and make sure everyone knows what stroke symptoms are and when to come in to the hospital,” she says. “Awareness is key and education on risk factors. If you can control chronic illnesses, that can decrease strokes from occurring. That’s why we do monthly screenings at the hospitals.”

Mosier says the easiest way to remind the community about strokes is: ACT FAST (face, arms, speech, time).

“If someone has facial weakness, arm weakness or speech diffi culties, it is time,” she says. “This might be a stroke and the individual needs to get somewhere as quickly as possible.” —Lesly Bailey

AWARENESS IS KEY TO

STROKE SURVIVAL

Letha Bond knew the combination of a tingling hand, headache and speech issues could add up to a stroke when

she faced these symptoms in October 2011. • “She knows the symptoms because of what the doctor told her to look for and what I tell her to look for, as she has been a heart

patient,” says Flossie Bond, Letha’s daughter and caregiver.

yogaP

racticing yoga may be an effective method that allows sufferers to alleviate symptoms and control the disease. It can also alleviate stress, give a sufferer a way to make a difference in living with

the disease—and actually stimulate the pancreas. It increases circulation and

produces positive energy. All of this makes the disease much easier to live with and gives the patient a focus—and a way to alter the

course of his or her diabetes.The yoga poses that diabetes

sufferers should concentrate on are those that stimulate

the areas of the body that are affected, says Linda Hanes, a registered nurse and

certifi ed yoga instructor at Community Hospital’s Fitness Pointe in Munster. That

means those poses that affect the pancreas and the adrenal glands, those that create movement all the way from the hip area to the sternum.

Forward bends (including “downward dogs”) cleanse organs and activate circulation, Hanes explains, which makes better use of glucose in the pancreas. “Stimulation is the key,” she says.

Hanes says yoga can even help those suffering from Type 1 diabetes—which often strikes younger individuals and has nothing to do with age or lifestyle issues. “Type 1 diabetes often results in low energy and poor circulation,” Hanes says. “Forward bends and twists—even holding knees against the chest—all things which involve squeezing and then releasing really increase blood fl ow in the long run. Asanas [types of yoga poses] that cause a squeezing and then an opening up of the area so that blood rushes in and fl ows into the area perks up circulation,” she explains.

By stimulating the circulation in this way, Hanes says, a Type 1 diabetic can feel much better. And a Type 2 diabetic can actually stimulate the sluggish pancreas to work more effi ciently.

Hanes often asks her yoga clients exactly what they are looking for regarding their yoga practice. Many of them are cardiac patients, along with having diabetes. “Yoga is a also a form of meditation,” she says. “And meditation lowers stress levels and also blood sugar levels.” —Bonnie McGrath

the body shop

THE POWER OF

For those who live with Type 2 diabetes—often occurring as a result of aging, weight gain and a lack of exercise—help may be on the way.

ALZHEIMER’SAT BAY

on your mind

Can it be true? Can something as simple as adding an exercise routine to your current lifestyle actually stave off Alzheimer’s disease? Recent studies say yes, that regular exercise can actually prevent the occurrence in

people who are genetically predisposed to the

disease—a disease which attacks the memory and the ability to function,

resulting in death.Working

out, it seems, can actually prevent

the formation of plaques in the brain

that cause Alzheimer’s, say the studies. As many as

20 percent of the population carries the Alzheimer’s gene—

and the resulting possibility of forming the plaques. Exercise can

substantially reduce that possibility in spite of the genetic propensity, says

the recent research.According to Dr. M. Hytham Rifai, a

Merrillville neurological and spinal surgeon

practicing at Franciscan St. Anthony in Crown Point—as well as the University of Illinois in Chicago—doing things such as jogging, walking or biking for as little as 20 minutes fi ve times a week can do the trick. But he cautions—this is a preventative only. Once Alzheimer’s has set in, there is no way to “cure” it. It takes its course and progresses, although there are medications that alleviate some symptoms. Exercise can also strengthen people who already have the disease, says Rifai, making it easier to live with Alzheimer’s. But nothing makes it go away.

The theory behind vigorous exercise and the prevention of Alzheimer’s is fairly simple. Plaques form in the brain cells when the brain lacks oxygen, explains Rifai. Exercise that increases the heart rate increases the oxygen to the brain, which ultimately provides for healthier brain cells.

“The research is very recent,” Rifai says. “But we’ve never had such data before.” All of which Rifai says is promising. Still, he calls the research data “very primitive.” And he expects all kinds of studies to follow. Hopefully the data from the recent studies will be duplicated—which will be heartening news for people who are prone to developing Alzheimer’s.

Rifai says it is important to make people aware of how important exercise is to brain health, in general. “This is a very hot topic,” he says. —Bonnie McGrath

Studies say exercise can stave off disease

KEEPING

food & fi tness

Valparaiso residents Marci and Courtney Crozier shed a considerable number of pounds for better health and a brighter future as reality cameras rolled in 2011 before millions of viewers on Season 11 of NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

One year later, the mother and daughter duo agree that once the cameras are gone and attention fades, the key factor for continued success is accountability. “I still stay in touch with all of the cast from our season on Biggest Loser after spending that much time with one another on our journey,” Courtney says. “Talking with each other regularly helps keep each other accountable.”

Courtney, 23, of Valparaiso, was originally 435 pounds just before she was cast, along with her mom, on the reality series that challenges teams to lose weight in hopes of winning a $250,000 grand prize.

By the time they fl ew to California to begin taping the series in December 2010, she had already dropped 112 pounds on her own, putting her weight at 322 to start the competition. By the time she was eliminated, she was down to 213 pounds.

Today, she’s at 200 pounds and all smiles.But she’s not done with meeting her goal.While on the show, Dr. Rob Huizenga, considered one of the leading

weight-loss experts in the country and an associate professor of clinical medicine at UCLA, told Courtney her weight should be at 190.

“My true goal is 190, since that is what Dr. H. advised and I’m getting pretty close,” Courtney says.

Courtney’s father Kevin owns a Dairy Queen franchise, while mom

Marci, who started the show at 238 pounds and is now 162, is regional director of marketing and sales for Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness in Schererville.

Courtney and Marci have also remained friends with the personal trainers on the show, in particular, Brett Hoebel, who was one of the new trainers featured with them on the series.

Hoebel fl ew to Northwest Indiana in March to not only visit both Courtney and Marci, but also to participate in an open house event at Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness.

Courtney laughs at the idea that there are any “hard feelings” with Hoebel, despite some of the “edited drama” included in one of her fi nal aired episodes. The particular episode had her and fellow contestant Hannah Curlee opting to spend a week at a spa with massages and restaurant meals rather than using the allotted money for daily personal training with Hoebel.

Marci said she has found “inspiration all around” from the response to her mission to improve her own health, while motivating her daughter

gaining confidence and

losing weightNBC’S ‘BIGGEST LOSER’ MOM AND DAUGHTER ARE STILL ON TRACK

WITH HEALTHY LIFESTYLES

d

e

may/june 2012

20 ADVANCES IN ORTHOPEDICS From custom casts to technological innovations, the health care industry has come a long way.

25 ON YOUR TOES Find out how to make your feet healthy and happy.

DR. BRUCE J . THOMA

Growth and sports are unique factors in young patientsAs a general orthopedic surgeon for 25 years, Dr. Bruce J. Thoma has

worked with patients of all ages and over the years developed an interest in arthroscopic surgery, the foot and ankle realm, and joint replacements,

since “as I get older my patients are getting older.” He has had the opportunity to bring his expertise to the community as a sports medicine

consultant for Valparaiso University and Chesterton High School.

ask the expert

Q: How is working with children and teens different from working with adults? Children and adolescents are growing. With sports-related injuries, it automatically involves a person who is not mature yet. Their bones, joints and soft tissues such as ligaments and cartilage are still growing and immature. Their injuries often entail different treatments and recovery because of this growth and immaturity.

Q: What are children and adolescents treated for most often and why is the approach different? The most common issue is broken bones and they very often involve the growth plate. This is a special plate of cartilage that exists at the ends of bones that allow children to grow taller and longer. The plates are weaker than bones as they have not calcifi ed yet.

Q: How does this make treatment different for children and teens vs. adults? As we are growing, we often break through the growth plate rather than the bones themselves and an injury near or at the growth plate implies certain principles for treatment. Children who break bones near a growth plate often end up with better results than an adult with an injury in the same place. We can allow a child’s growth to correct a mild amount of crookedness as the growth plate affects the healing position of the bone. If a child breaks a bone near a growth plate, we

can accept the bones to be a little out of place and know that the child’s growth will correct it, while that will not occur with adults. For children, this might mean less aggressive treatment and the difference between surgeries or not, as setting and casting are still common in pediatric patients.

Q: How do you work with the community as a sports medicine consultant? I collaborate with colleagues in different disciplines on preseason physicals each summer at the high school and work with the trainers during football games if players face an issue. At Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute, we also offer a free sports screening clinic for the community from August through early June from 8 to 9 a.m. Saturdays. The clinic for school-age children provides parents the opportunity to bring their child in for an X-ray or to consult with a physical therapist or orthopedic physician. If their child twisted an ankle at practice earlier in the week, we can assess the situation and advise if the injury needs further treatment or not.

Q: What advice do you have for parents in regards to sports and their children? I have been in both roles: as a parent and as a physician. My daughter has been involved in horseback riding and my son has been involved in football and hockey. There is a fear of injury and some risk to it. I would

say as a doctor, if you think your child has a problem, get it checked out. Kids—athletes in particular—tend to minimize and they are not always truthful about what is bothering them. They don’t want to miss practice or a game. But if you think your child is having a problem, consider having it checked out with a professional.

Q: In general, what are the innovations you have seen develop over the years? The technology advancements in my time have been revolutionary. When I started out, if an individual tore his rotator cuff, we would make a four-inch incision, take out the muscle and drill the bones. Today, due to arthroscopic surgery, we utilize smaller incisions and are not disrupting the muscles as much. We also use biodegradable stitches that dissolve. Knee replacements can last twenty years or longer and with less invasive procedures, an individual can go home within a day after having a total hip replacement. Also, we are able to create computerized templates of where to cut with the utilization of MRIs. —Lesly Bailey


These days, almost everyone is on the go. That’s why joint pain caused by arthritis, trauma or joint

disease can take such a heavy toll on your physical, emotional and mental outlook. At Methodist

Hospitals, we are relieving pain caused by severely arthritic or damaged joints by replacing them

with the most advanced, high-tech implants. We are performing these joint replacements with

greater precision and accuracy in Northwest Indiana’s only multi-specialty, computer-assisted

surgery suite. Our personal care coordinators guide patients through the entire joint replacement

process, from pre-admission testing, through surgery and rehabilitation. Thanks to our exclusive

new technologies and our unique personal approach to patient care, we are reducing recovery

times, and helping our patients enjoy healthier, more active lives.

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It’s plantar fasciitis. Not too glamorous, is it?

But according to Sports Illustrated, it makes headlines as being “the most maddening injury in sports.”

Mayo Clinic describes the injury as pain and inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects

your heel bone to your toes. It is one of the most common causes of heel pain and often causes stabbing pain that usually occurs with your very first steps in the morning. Once your foot limbers up, the pain of plantar fasciitis normally decreases, but it may return after long periods of standing or after getting up from a seated position.

In my case, the pain in the foot reared its ugly head when I was pregnant. The increase in weight lead to me hobbling along like an injured animal. Luckily, a cortisone shot, physical therapy and orthotics helped me recover.

In this issue of Get Healthy, we place the spotlight on orthopedics and podiatry. From custom casts on page 21 to technological advances in orthopedics on page 23 to how joint surgery isn’t just for the elderly on page 20, this issue has something for all ages. On page 32, Dr. Bruce J. Thoma, an orthopedic surgeon with Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute, looks at growth and sports as the factors when dealing with young

orthopedic patients.A Hammond cop shares his recovery from

shoulder surgery. (It doesn’t hurt that his doctor serves as team physician for the Chicago White Sox and performed landmark surgery on pitcher Jake Peavy.) See page 22 for more about his innovative procedure.

And moving on . . . we delve into barefoot running and those wacky-looking five-finger shoes so many runners like today. Plus, Dr. Michael Nirenberg shares the benefits of FloWalking. And don’t forget to read about the best shoes for your feet this summer. Spoiler alert: It’s not those flip-flops you’re wearing.

We catch up with Marci and Courtney Crozier on page 30. For those who don’t remember, this dynamic mother/daughter duo starred on Season 11 of NBC’s The Biggest Loser. And Courtney just opened a new frozen yogurt business this spring in Valparaiso called Yo Amazing Yogurt Shoppe.

And in honor of May being Stroke Awareness Month, on page 10 we share the story of 79-year-old Gary resident Letha Bond, who was aware of the warning signs and made it to Methodist Hospitals in time to save her life. We salute you, Letha!

KARIN SALTANOVITZMANAGING EDITOR

letter from the editorJoakim Noah.Kobe Bryant.Scott Posednik.I have something in common with these guys. No—it’s not the fame and fortune earned from playing a pro sport.

Publisher — BILL MASTERSON, JR.Associate Publisher/Editor — PAT COLANDER

Managing Editor — KARIN SALTANOVITZDesign Director — BEN CUNNINGHAM

Designer — APRIL BURFORDAsst. Managing Editor — KATHRYN MACNEIL

Niche Assistant — LAVETA HUGHES

Contributing EditorsHEATHER AUGUSTYN, LESLY BAILEY, TRICIA DESPRES, ROB EARNSHAW, LU ANN FRANKLIN, TERRI GORDON,

JULIE DEAN KESSLER, BONNIE MCGRATH, KIM RANEGAR, VANESSA RENDERMAN,

SHARON BIGGS WALLER

NICHE PUBLICATION SALESAccount Executives

MIKE CANE, ANDREA WALCZAK

Advertising Operations ManagerERIC HORON

Advertising ManagersDEB ANSELM, LISA DAUGHERTY,

JEFFREY PRECOURT

Production ManagerTOM KACIUS

Creative Services ManagerAMI REESE

Published by Lee Enterprises

The Times of Northwest IndianaNiche Productions Division

601 W 45th Ave, Munster, Indiana 46321219.933.3200

2080 N Main St Crown Point, Indiana 46307

219.662.5300

1111 Glendale Blvd Valparaiso, Indiana 46383

219.462.5151

Copyright, Reprints and Permissions: You must have permission before reproducing material

from Get Healthy magazine.

Get Healthy magazine is published six times each year by Lee Enterprises, The Times of Northwest Indiana, Niche Division, 601 W 45th Ave, Munster, IN 46321.

volume 7 | issue 3

CHECK OUT NWI.COM/GETHEALTHY, WHERE YOU’LL FIND:Our comprehensive calendar of Well-Being Events • Fresh new articles

and information every day • Health advice from local and national experts • The place to sign up for our weekly email newsletter to receive advice

and ideas on nutrition, fitness, mental health and health care


here for you.here

As part of the Porter Health Care System family, the physicians and staff of the Porter Physician Group have provided quality care to our community for over 20 years.

here for you.

As part of the Porter Health Care System family, the physicians and staff of the Porter Physician Group have provided quality care to our community for over 20 years.

Whether it’s a simple stomachache or something more serious, you can trust Porter Physician Group with your family’s well-being. Backed by Porter Health Care System, your trusted partner in health care, many of our doctors offer same- or next-day appointments and are conveniently located throughout Valparaiso.

Just one more reason to choose Porter Health Care System.

Cumberland Internal Medicine1231 Cumberland Crossing Drive

Valparaiso219-548-3854



Glendale Primary Care1101 Glendale Boulevard


conveniently located throughout Valparaiso.






Lake Porter Primary Care336 West US Hwy 30


Cumberland Internal MedicineCumberland Internal Medicine1231 Cumberland Crossing Drive

219-548-3854


219-464-9521

Lake Porter Primary CareLake Porter Primary Care336 West US Hwy 30


Vale Park Primary Care401 Wall Street








Portage Medical Group3630 Willowcreek Road

Portage219-364-3700



Portage Medical GroupPortage Medical Group3630 Willowcreek Road

Portage219-364-3700

Primary Care3125 Willowcreek Road

Portage219-762-3175

Just one more reason to choose Porter Health Care System.Just one more reason to choose Porter Health Care System.

Wanatah Primary Care306 South Ohio Street

Wanatah219-733-2755


219-364-3700

Primary Care3125 Willowcreek Road

219-762-3175


3125 Willowcreek Road

Wanatah Primary CareWanatah Primary Care306 South Ohio Street

Wanatah219-733-2755

Westchester Medical Group650 Dickinson Road

Chesterton219-926-2133

Porter is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

61461_PORTE_PPG_9_89x4_95c.indd 1 3/28/12 11:49 AM

Find Doctor Right.

708.915.CARECare Connection

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NO BOUNDARIES FOR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

WHO ROUTINELY REACH OUT TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY

In Northwest Indiana we have gotten used to our health care groups receiving honors and awards. But health care is unlike any other industry I’ve seen: the honorees are very humble in the light drawn by achievement. There are no limits on the generosity of spirit here.

While they have a strong commitment to their organization, that commitment seems to automatically extend back into their community and affects the whole Region at many levels. Last month the Times Business and Industry Hall of Fame award went to Franciscan St. Margaret Health in Hammond and Dyer president Tom Gryzbek. Most of this honoree’s career has been in leadership roles with Franciscan Alliance, but his vision has never had borders. Gryzbek

leads a prison ministry; he also developed St. Margaret’s Volunteer Advocates for Seniors program that eventually led to a law in our state that protects and champions those among us who are the most vulnerable. Certainly this award was deserved and maybe overdue. While Tom Gryzbek’s accomplishments are inspiring, I was struck by the enthusiasm of the people who work with him and for him, and the dedication he engenders in those around him. In that way, his example and influence affect so many of us.

Likewise Methodist Hospitals, led by president and CEO Ian McFadden and Methodist Foundation board chair Gary T. Miller and executive director Rob Hanrahan, recently hosted a Mardi Gras Ball as a way of acknowledging the culmination of a six-month employee fundraising effort to support the mission of the hospital. Methodist has numerous top programs in Neuroscience and Oncology, Bariatric Surgery and Women’s Health initiatives. Again, Methodist’s work in the community goes beyond its walls and campuses with outreach services such as heart health screenings.

Community Hospital and affiliates is another group that always seems to go the extra mile with preventative health and therapy extensions, post-surgery support that widens the circle of care for so many people trying to get well. Fitness Pointe classes for yoga and pain management are just one of the innovative approaches Community uses to assist the wider world with the latest ideas and techniques in treating chronic conditions.

The Northwest Indiana Health Care Advisory Council’s Spring meeting—a summit organized by Methodist vice-president Denise Dillard and the Times Media Company, covering a range of topics including the work of the NWI Patient Safety Council and Community Action Corp, especially in the aging population—will take place soon. The series is designed as part of the One Region, One Vision project to set the agenda for our area in health care, government and grassroots.

PAT COLANDERASSOCIATE PUBLISHER AND EDITOR

NORTHWEST INDIANA

HEALTH CARE ADVISORY COUNCIL

John Gorski Community Healthcare System

Donald Fesko Community Hospital

Lou Molina Community Hospital

Mary Ann Shachlett Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana

JoAnn Birdzell St. Catherine Hospital

Janice Ryba St. Mary Medical Center

Gene Diamond Franciscan Alliance

David F. Ruskowski

Franciscan St. Anthony HealthCrown Point

Daniel Netluch, MD Franciscan St. Anthony Health

Crown Point

Carol Schuster, RN, MBA Franciscan Alliance

Thomas J. Gryzbek Franciscan St. Margaret Health

Jim Lipinski Franciscan Alliance

James T. Callaghan III, MD, MBA

Franciscan St. Anthony Health Michigan City

Trish Weber, RN, MBA Franciscan St. Anthony Health

Michigan City

Jonathan Nalli Porter Hospital

Ian McFadden Methodist Hospitals

Denise Dillard Methodist Hospitals

Lilly Veljovic Pinnacle Hospital

Barbara H. GreeneFranciscan Physicians Hospital

Beverly DeLao Franciscan Hammond Clinic

Rob Jensen Franciscan Hammond Clinic

C.D. Egnatz Lake County Medical Society

John T. King, MDFranciscan St. Anthony

Crown Point

Anton Thompkins, MD Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

Willis Glaros Employer Benefits Systems

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While just a small percentage of people are born with foot problems, three out of four

Americans will experience a serious foot problem at least once in their lifetime, according to a recent study cited by the Foot Health Network at foot.com.

When you consider that the average person spends a great deal of time on his or her feet, along with the fact that each foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles, it probably doesn’t come as a surprise that foot problems in our area increase as the weather improves each spring.

“Twenty-five percent of the bones in your body are in your feet, so it’s complicated,” Dr. John Rachoy, DPM, a local podiatry specialist who practices at the office of Medical Specialists in Munster and Schererville, said. “Most foot pain is caused by injury or improperly fit shoes. Both of these can be issues for people who are just starting to enjoy the great outdoors again for walking, hiking and/or running.”

First and foremost, Dr. Rachoy, who cares for people of all ages with foot, ankle or lower leg disorders such as arthritis, tendonitis, bunions, heel pain, spurs, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, warts, corns and calluses, including the treatment and prevention of foot conditions due to diabetes, encourages everyone—regardless of activity level—to wear good, supportive shoes that are well-fitting.

“Flip-flops are going to be around forever,” he said. “Usually they are fine for running errands or things like that. But, depending on the individual, flip-flops, flat shoes and even going barefoot can be a cause of pain, especially when activity levels increase.”

In addition to proper shoes, Dr. Rachoy also suggests people who want to maintain their performance level should alternate or change up their exercise routine regularly.

“It’s important that you are not always doing the same things in the same order,” he said. “Stretching, before and after every workout, is also a key component to avoiding injuries. But, probably the most important thing for everyone to do is to gradually increase their exercise level over time. That way you can go from days to weeks to months throughout the entire summer.”

Even with proper precautions, foot pain may be caused by an injury when exercising or otherwise overdoing it with your feet. For those experiencing foot pain from injury this spring, you can still maintain your fitness with low impact activity such as riding a bike or using an elliptical trainer, according to Dr. Rachoy.

“Some foot pain can be treated at home. Ice, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and better shoes often help. However, if you are injured or do not improve with home care, you may need an x-ray to determine the cause of your foot pain,” Dr. Rachoy said. “People are often surprised to learn that one of the more common things we see is stress fractures in women typically 40-55 years of age. We also see a lot of diabetic patients with infection this time of year.”

Whatever the cause, addressing foot problems as they arise is important to maintaining your overall good health since some foot pain may be the first sign of more serious medical problems such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve or circulatory disorders.

Proper Foot Care Keeps You Active

MEDICAL SPECIALISTS DEPARTMENT OF PODIATRY Munster9034 Columbia Ave219.836.0296

Schererville2001 US 41219.365.0970medspecindiana.com

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what’s newBy Vanessa Renderman

HEALTHY PRODUCTSTRUE BODY SOAPSTrue Body’s mission is to provide products that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, are produced in ways that are friendly to the environment, and that are fairly priced at $5.49 and widely accessible. True Body products are available in more than 300 stores.

The Body Bar (available in 3-packs, shown) contains just five ingredients: responsibly sourced palm oil, coconut oil, water, vegetable glycerine, and sodium citrate.

The Facial Bar contains the same ingredients as the Body Bar, plus shea butter and polyglycerides derived from sunflower oil.

FYI: truebodyproducts.com

YOGA AND PILATES AT HOME• Rodney Yee’s A.M./P.M. Yoga for

Beginners: This updated version of one of Rodney’s most popular DVDs combines original routines with meditation. Featuring two workouts to strengthen, balance and revitalize mind and body, Rodney leads the A.M. practice, a series of energizing poses to help wake up the body and focus the mind, while his wife, Colleen Saidman, leads the P.M. practice, designed to help users wind down at the end of a busy day.

• Mari Winsor’s Lower Body Pilates: In her newest DVD, Mari Winsor features three practices focused on the areas of the body devoted clients ask for most: hips, thighs and glutes. With more than fifty workout programs to her credit, this DVD is a compilation of Mari’s most effective Pilates and fitness moves that target the hard-to-reach trouble zones of the lower body.

• Shiva Rea’s Mama & Baby Yoga: In her newest DVD with Gaiam, Shiva leads new mothers through yoga exercises specifically designed to tone and reshape the parts of the body that change the most during pregnancy. The practice differs from other post-natal workouts because it involves the baby in the routines, allowing the mother and child to bond throughout the practice. This DVD is ideal for mothers with infants 3-6 months.

DVDs are priced at $14.98 and available at retailers including ShopGaiam.com and Target.

COMOTOMO NATURAL-FEEL BABY BOTTLEThe transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding can be tough for Mom and baby, physically and emotionally. When the time comes to wean babies to the bottle, Comotomo makes the transition easier.

Comotomo’s bottles are made with silicone, which feels more like human skin, and are safe in boiling water and microwaves. The models are designed to look and feel natural, are easy to clean and are BPA free.

The silicone adds to the longevity. Doctors recommend that traditional baby bottles be swapped every three months because of the dangers of bacteria. Unlike plastic, Comotomo’s silicone body doesn’t scratch, which means bacteria can’t be captured in tiny cracks. And, silicone doesn’t have pores that can harbor bacteria.

The new bottles are available in green and pink, in two sizes: 150 mL for $15.99 and 250 mL for $16.99. Learn more at Amazon.com.

Local Health NewsAssist Sojourner Truth HouseSojourner Truth House, a day center in Gary for homeless and at-risk women and children, will be holding its 13th annual Walk for Sojourner Truth House on May 5 at Froebel Alumni Park.

Money raised will help the nonprofit facility provide services such as food, clothing, medical treatment, job skills programs, support counseling and a commitment to independent living. The walk begins at 9 a.m., with check-in at 8 a.m. at Froebel Alumni Park across the street from the day center, 410 West 13th Avenue in Gary. Register at walkforSTH.org or call Lillian Beasley at 219.885.2282.

Fundraiser to help childrenTickets are available for the 10th annual Rooftop Fundraiser for Children’s Charities, which will benefit Little Heroes Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, Kusiak Cares Coat Drive and the Friends of Michael Williams.

The Salzeider Family Charity organizes the event. A $150 ticket to the fundraiser includes seats to a rooftop near Wrigley Field for the 1:20 p.m. Cubs vs. White Sox game on May 18, giveaways, raffles, auctions, unlimited food, wine, beer and pop.

The first 215 people to sign up will be put on the 1010 Waveland rooftop. Additional people will be put on another rooftop, as provided through Beyond the Ivy, beyondtheivy.com. Tickets can be purchased online at https://secure/beyondtheivy.com/fundraiser/salzeider or by calling John Salzeider at 312.671.2701 or Robin Salzeider at 312.671.0034.

Calling all ‘Calendar Girls’The Pink Ribbon Society is looking for nominations for the 2013 Pink Ribbon Society Breast Cancer Survivors’ Calendar. If you know an individual—male or female—who is a breast cancer survivor and would make a great role model for others diagnosed with breast cancer, nominate them. The deadline is July 1.

Edda Taylor, a renowned local photographer, will be taking the photos. Send nominations including name, year of diagnosis, personal and/or professional

accomplishments, and the things in general that make the nominee outstanding to the Pink Ribbon Society, 11011 Allendale Court, Crown Point, IN 46307. Also include your contact information in case the nominee is chosen.

“Calendar Girls” will be presented at the Eleventh Annual Breast Cancer Survivors’ Luncheon on Sunday, September 30, at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville. For more information contact Ann Peters at 219.663.4990.

Hospital uses robotic cutsWith the aid of advanced robotic technology, the Community Hospital in Munster recently became the first in the state to perform single-incision surgery to remove the gallbladder of a patient. There are only a few hospitals in the nation using the da Vinci robot to perform this procedure.

“To be the first hospital in the state of Indiana to offer this technically advanced surgical option demonstrates Community Hospital’s commitment and leadership in providing patients with the latest in minimally invasive surgeries,” said Don Fesko, the Community Hospital chief executive officer. “Typically this surgery has been done with three or four smaller incisions, but with the newest version of the da Vinci Si Robotic Surgical System our specially trained surgeons are able to perform the same procedure with a single incision in the belly button.”


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survivor spotlight

This awareness prompted the 79-year-old Gary resident to seek help immediately and she was able to arrive at Methodist Hospitals’ Northlake campus within an hour with assistance from her son, Gary Police Detective James Bond.

“Letha was having problems speaking and also having movement issues on the right side when she arrived at the hospital,” says Sherry Mosier, Methodist Hospitals’ stroke care coordinator.

Tests determined Letha was suffering from an ischemic stroke, where a clot was blocking blood flow to her brain.

Dr. Mayumi Oka, neurointerventional radiologist at Methodist Hospitals, says treatment includes two courses of action, depending on the patient’s own unique health history and issues, symptoms and timeframe of arriving at the hospital. “If a patient can come in within four-and-a-half hours of symptoms, an IV of t-PA [tissue plasminogen activator] can be administered in hopes of breaking up the clot and opening up the vessel,” Dr. Oka says. “With endovascular treatment of a stroke, we go in with the same medicine directly to where the clot is and administer small amounts of t-PA into the clot. We can do this up to eight hours of the onset of symptoms.”

While Letha arrived quickly at the hospital, she was on blood thinner Coumadin for an irregular heartbeat. Doctors determined that there would be a risk of complications if an IV dose of t-PA was administered to Letha. She was transferred to the hospital’s Southlake campus for the intervention method of treatment. “Through a catheter in her groin, I injected a little t-PA directly into the clot and was able to suction out the clot and leave the vessel clear,” Dr. Oka says.

“The next day, she was talking and back to her normal self,” Flossie says.

A cook until she retired, Letha has confronted health challenges over the years including a heart attack, two bouts of colon cancer and breast cancer. She

also has helped family members face their own health issues, including her husband, Walter, and her son, Larry, who both died of cancer.

“She brought my brother and dad home and took care of them until they passed away,” Flossie says. “When she has surgeries, she prays and puts it all in God’s hands and the doctor’s hands. She doesn’t have stress or worry.”

Flossie believes her mom’s “spunk” has kept her strong and the family is planning a big celebration for her 80th birthday on June 10. The family marks her birthdays in a greater fashion every five years.

The birthday events usually include more than 300 people as Letha has seventeen children of her own and eight adopted children as well as 125 grandchildren and 135 great-grandchildren. “My mom adopted her sister’s kids when she died of breast cancer,” Flossie says.

Letha says she is a family person who believes family members should be close and when it comes down to it, they will all come together despite the ups and downs of life. “She loves her kids to death—every one of them,” Flossie says. “She takes care of everyone—that’s what she does.”

Mosier says Letha’s knowledge of symptoms and quick action are vital aspects of stroke awareness. “We need to educate the community and make sure everyone knows what stroke symptoms are and when to come in to the hospital,” she says. “Awareness is key and education on risk factors. If you can control chronic illnesses, that can decrease strokes from occurring. That’s why we do monthly screenings at the hospitals.”

Mosier says the easiest way to remind the community about strokes is: ACT FAST (face, arms, speech, time).

“If someone has facial weakness, arm weakness or speech difficulties, it is time,” she says. “This might be a stroke and the individual needs to get somewhere as quickly as possible.” —Lesly Bailey

AWARENESS IS KEY TO

STROKE SURVIVAL

Letha Bond knew the combination of a tingling hand, headache and speech issues could add up to a stroke when

she faced these symptoms in October 2011. • “She knows the symptoms because of what the doctor told her to look for and what I tell her to look for, as she has been a heart

patient,” says Flossie Bond, Letha’s daughter and caregiver.

COURTESY OF BRUCE BURNS PHOTOGRAPHYShown from left to right are Letha Bond’s eldest grandchild Jeanette Bond, her son Det. James Bond, Letha Bond, neurointerventional radiologist Dr. Mayumi Oka and Methodist Hospitals’ stroke care coordinator Sherry Mosier.


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yogaP

racticing yoga may be an effective method that allows sufferers to alleviate symptoms and control the disease. It can also alleviate stress, give a sufferer a way to make a difference in living with

the disease—and actually stimulate the pancreas. It increases circulation and

produces positive energy. All of this makes the disease much easier to live with and gives the patient a focus—and a way to alter the

course of his or her diabetes.The yoga poses that diabetes

sufferers should concentrate on are those that stimulate

the areas of the body that are affected, says Linda Hanes, a registered nurse and

certified yoga instructor at Community Hospital’s Fitness Pointe in Munster. That

means those poses that affect the pancreas and the adrenal glands, those that create movement all the way from the hip area to the sternum.

Forward bends (including “downward dogs”) cleanse organs and activate circulation, Hanes explains, which makes better use of glucose in the pancreas. “Stimulation is the key,” she says.

Hanes says yoga can even help those suffering from Type 1 diabetes—which often strikes younger individuals and has nothing to do with age or lifestyle issues. “Type 1 diabetes often results in low energy and poor circulation,” Hanes says. “Forward bends and twists—even holding knees against the chest—all things which involve squeezing and then releasing really increase blood flow in the long run. Asanas [types of yoga poses] that cause a squeezing and then an opening up of the area so that blood rushes in and flows into the area perks up circulation,” she explains.

By stimulating the circulation in this way, Hanes says, a Type 1 diabetic can feel much better. And a Type 2 diabetic can actually stimulate the sluggish pancreas to work more efficiently.

Hanes often asks her yoga clients exactly what they are looking for regarding their yoga practice. Many of them are cardiac patients, along with having diabetes. “Yoga is a also a form of meditation,” she says. “And meditation lowers stress levels and also blood sugar levels.” —Bonnie McGrath

the body shop

THE POWER OF

For those who live with Type 2 diabetes—often occurring as a result of aging, weight gain and a lack of exercise—help may be on the way.



Yet another night of tossing and turning leaves you in a haze for the day ahead of you. Perhaps it’s stress or drinking that last cup of coffee too late in the day. No matter the reason, more and more people seem to be complaining that they simply can’t get a good night of sleep these days.

Could it be your mattress?“People may experience more aches and pains due to the mattresses

they are sleeping on,” explains Dan Greenhill, clinic director of ATI Physical Therapy in Hammond. “Older mattresses need to be flipped to ensure even wear. Uneven mattress wear may mean that your body weight is not being evenly distributed across the mattress, which may create pain in certain areas, such as your low back and even your neck. Ultimately, finding the right mattress varies from person to person; some people may require more cushion, as others may need a mattress that provides more support or firmness.”

Sleeping positions can also contribute to a morning’s worth of assorted aches and pains. “Sleeping with too many pillows under your head may cause neck pain as the cervical spine is no longer in a neutral position while sleeping,” Greenhill explains. “Stomach-sleepers may be predisposed to neck pain as the cervical spine/neck is in a rotated position while sleeping, which may lead to cervical/neck pain. Those people who suffer from low back pain may benefit from maintaining good alignment through the spine and body.”

There are solutions. Sleeping on your side with a body pillow between your knees will help maintain the hips and spine in a better position which may help reduce low back pain. Cervical pillows may help those people with neck pain find a more comfortable sleeping position. The newer pillow-top mattresses are also much better at evenly distributing your body weight and eliminating pressure points that older, more worn mattresses may have produced. —Tricia Despres

BED ISSUESWhy changing your mattress might

help you kiss back pain goodbyeWhy Our Patients Choose St. Catherine Hospital’s top performing orthopedic surgeon Surender Dhiman, MD:

Before surgery, I was missing out on things I enjoyed and I didn’t want to continue to lead a sedentary lifestyle at a young age. I wanted to make an informed decision about my health. I appreciated that Dr. Dhiman spent time with me and my family members to discuss all of my options. Now I am back to enjoying my active lifestyle.

-Eric Stur, Munster

Before going to Dr. Dhiman, I was in a lot of pain, and unable to enjoy my life and my passion - fishing. Before my surgeries, I had difficulty getting in and out of my boat by myself. I was concerned about having two hip replacement surgeries within a few short months of each other but Dr. Dhiman offers a complete team approach to care which enabled me to recover quickly. Now I’m back to fishing and it’s smooth sailing.

-Jack Gresko, Whiting

Dr. Dhiman has been one of my angels - an answer to my prayers. Since 2004, I had suffered in pain, often going to bed crying myself to sleep. After three unsuccessful surgeries, I finally met with Dr. Dhiman. With his support, guidance and skills, I am now walking comfortably! He truly was a Godsend.

-Lydia Banda, Hammond

Dr. Dhiman is now acceptingnew patients. To make an appointment, call (219) 392-7664.

4321 Fir Street, East Chicago, IN 46312 www.comhs.org


well-being eventsBecause dates and times are subject to change, please call ahead to confirm all event details. If you would like to submit a health-related event to be considered

for listing in the Get Healthy calendar of events, please send the information at least 6-8 weeks in advance to [email protected].

compi led by LAVETA HUGHES

FITNESS

ONGOING Ballroom Dancing, 10:30-11:30am Wed, Pruzin Center, 5750 Tyler St, Merrillville. 219.980.5911. activenwi.com. Instructor Robert Lenten teaches various ballroom dances based on class participants’ interest. Partner not required.

ONGOING Chi Gong, 9:30-10:30am Thu, Cancer Resource Centre, 926 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3349. cancerresourcecentre.com. This ancient Eastern healing art of breath, movement, non-movement and meditation will be taught through a one-hour session of warm-ups, positions and focused movements.

ONGOING Running Club, 6pm Tue, 5:30am Thu, 6:30am Sat, Duneland Family YMCA, 215 Roosevelt St, Chesterton. 219.926.4204. dunelandymca.org. This program is for all skill levels—beginning, intermediate and advanced. Participants should dress for an outdoor run. Saturday runs are held off-site.

ONGOING Senior Aerobics, 9:30-10:30am Tue, Thu, Pruzin Community Center, 5750 Tyler St, Merrillville. 219.980.5911. Merrillville residents ages 50 and older can stay fit at this free aerobics class.

ONGOING Yoga, 4:30-5:30pm Wed, St. Mary Medical Center, 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.805.5180 (Lake County) or 219.548.9395 (Porter County). comhs.org. The basics of yoga will be the focus of this class, which uses gentle yoga to release stress and increase flexibility and strength.

ONGOING Y-Run, 6-7pm Mon, Southlake YMCA, 1450 S Court St, Crown Point. 219.663.5810. slymca.org. Participants will be provided with a specific training program, and the group will meet once a week to run and discuss stretching, hydration, finding the right running shoe, nutrition, and avoiding/treating injury.

CLASSES/SEMINARS

ONGOING C.H.O.I.C.E.S. Natural Birth & Parenting Network, 7pm, 1st Wed of the month, Hebron Community Center, 611 N Main St, Hebron. 219.996.5188. indianabirthchoices.com. This free community program brings together midwives, doulas, childbirth educators, chiropractors, breastfeeding consultants and new and expecting parents. No need to preregister.

ONGOING Diabetes Management

Classes, Crown Point. 219.757.6268. stanthonymedicalcenter.com. After completion of this four-week course, recognized by the American Diabetes Association, participants will have learned all aspects of diabetes care. Afternoon and evening sessions are available, as are individual appointments for glucose monitoring or insulin administration, and free blood glucose screenings.

ONGOING Moving Forward, call for dates and times, St. Catherine Hospital, 4321 Fir St, East Chicago. 219.852.6287. comhs.org. This five-part series helps stroke survivors and their caregivers learn to prevent future strokes through risk detection and management.

ONGOING State Health Insurance Assistance Program, call for dates and times. 219.392.7448. comhs.org. This program is sponsored by Community Healthcare System to assist seniors in getting the most from their health insurance and understanding Medicare and Medicaid programs.

ONGOING Weight Management Class, 6:30pm, 2nd Mon of every month, Franciscan Hammond Clinic Specialty Center, 7905 Calumet Ave, Munster. 219.836.5800. hammondclinic.com. Those interested in weight loss through bariatric surgery should attend this ongoing weight management class. A physician referral is required to attend.

APR 25 Victory over Violence, 5-6pm, St. Catherine Hospital, Pastoral Care Dept, 4321 Fir St, East Chicago. comhs.org. 219.836.3477. This free session is for those who are dealing with the aftermath of a violent incident.

JUN 18 Weight-Loss Surgery: Is It Right for Me? 6-8pm, St. Mary Medical Center, Patient Tower, 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.836.3477. comhs.org. Using a team approach to achieving weight loss, bariatric surgeons Drs. Paul Stanish and Hung Dang discuss the etiology of obesity, its effect on an individual’s physical, emotional and psychological health, and how surgical weight loss can help increase an individual’s ability to move, improve self-esteem and, most importantly, extend their life.

SUPPORT GROUPS

ONGOING Breastfeeding Mothers Support Group, 10am-noon, 3rd Tue

of every month, Franciscan St. Anthony Health, Crown Point. 219.757.6368. stanthonymedicalcenter.com. Mothers meet to discuss various topics in an open forum.

ONGOING Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance, 6pm, 1st and 3rd Wed of every month, Porter-Starke Services, 701 Wall St, Entrance C, Valparaiso; 7pm, 2nd and 4th Mon of every month, Methodist Hospitals Southlake Campus, 8701 Broadway, Merrillville. 219.462.3689. porterstarke.org. This unique support group is a peer-directed discussion, with patients being treated for depression or bipolar disorder and their families helping form a comprehensive common denominator of the support needed.

ONGOING Diabetes Support Group, 6:30pm, 2nd Thu of every month, Franciscan Hammond Clinic, 7905 Calumet Ave. Pre-register for this program to be included in a raffle drawing for door prizes. Refreshments will be provided.

ONGOING Emotions Anonymous, 7pm Wed, Spiritual Care Services, Franciscan Saint Anthony Health, 301 W Homer St, Michigan City. 219.879.8659. saintanthonymemorial.org. This weekly twelve-step program is made up of people who work towards recovery from emotional difficulties, including depression, anger, grief, boredom or compulsive behavior.

ONGOING Fibromites Unite, 10am, 4th Sat of every month, Franciscan Saint Margaret Health’s Dyer Campus Classroom F, 24 Joliet St, Dyer. 708.539.9896. smmhc.com. This monthly support group is for people who suffer from fibromyalgia.

ONGOING Gluten Intolerance Group of Northwest Indiana, 7-8pm, 2nd Mon of every month, St. Mary Medical Center, 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.588.9829. comhs.org. This free support group is for those with gluten intolerances, including celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis and other sensitivities.

ONGOING MS Support Group, 11:30am-1:00pm, 3rd Fri of every month, Center for Advanced Clinical Studies Conference Room, Methodist Hospitals’ Southlake Campus, 200 E 89th Dr, Merrillville. 219.738.4926. methodisthospitals.org. No registration is required for this free support group for friends and family of people with multiple sclerosis.

ONGOING Pain Management Group Therapy, 9-10:30am, 2nd and 4th Tue of

every month, St. Catherine Hospital, 4321 Fir St, East Chicago. 219.392.7722. comhs.org. This free group provides an opportunity to learn a variety of coping skills and techniques of pain control for those with chronic pain.

ONGOING Parenting Together, 11am, 2nd Tue of every month, Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center, Three Rivers County Park, 2800 Colorado St, Lake Station. 219.963.2070. mybellaboos.com. This new support group allows participants to visit with other parents and discuss interesting topics—including phobias, discipline, physical fitness, children’s literature, safety, separation anxiety and more. Parents can attend with or without their children, but those who attend without their children will need to leave promptly after the meeting.

ONGOING Rehabilitation Club, 3pm, 1st Thu of every month, Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness, 221 S Rt 41, Schererville. 219.322.1600. smmhc.com. The group is open to anyone with multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, or who has had a stroke, spinal cord injury or other injuries requiring therapy, and their caregivers, family and friends. Participants can share stories, talk with other patients and caregivers, and ask questions of therapists.

ONGOING Shared Experience, Crown Point. 219.757.6008. stanthonymedicalcenter.com. This support group for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer offers participants the chance to share experiences—joys and triumphs—and methods of coping in a nonjudgmental environment with others who are facing similar circumstances.

ONGOING Stroke Survivor Support Group, 7pm, 3rd Thu of every month, Trinity Lutheran Church Teachers’ Lounge, 250 S Indiana Ave, Crown Point. 219.663.0265. Individuals who have survived a stroke are invited to join this new support group. Registration is encouraged by calling 219.663.0265.

MAY 1 Memories, 5:30-6:30pm, St. Catherine Hospital, Pastoral Care Dept, 4321 Fir St, East Chicago. 219.836.3477. comhs.org. This group is for parents and family members who have lost their unborn child or a child at a very early age.

NUTRITION

ONGOING Cooking For You, call for


dates and times, Cancer Resource Centre, 926 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3349. comhs.org. Visiting chefs prepare a delectable dish for all to sample from the Cooking for Zita cookbook.

ONGOING Nutrition Counseling, call for dates and times, Community Hospital Fitness Pointe, 9950 Calumet Ave, Munster. 219.934.2858. comhs.org. This program offers individualized meal planning designed by a registered dietitian with expertise in food allergies, weight management, abnormal blood lipid management, diabetes, eating disorders and more.

ONGOING Nutrition for Life, call for dates and times, Cancer Resource Centre, 926 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3349. comhs.org. This program, facilitated by a registered dietitian/diabetes educator, enforces the importance of healthy eating.

KIDS

ONGOING Healing Hearts for Teens, 5:30-6:45pm Mon, 600 Superior Ave, Munster. 219.922.2732, 708.895.8332. This free six-session support group, sponsored by Hospice of the Calumet Area, is for youth ages 13 to 17 who have experienced the death of a loved one and need support for their grief. The next session begins April 23 and runs on Mondays for six weeks.

ONGOING KidFit Camp, Ingalls Wellness Center, 2920 W 183rd St, Homewood. 708.206.0072. ingallshealthsystem.org. This program is a children’s weight management series geared toward kids 8-12 to help children learn healthy lifestyle changes without an emphasis on diet. The focus is on self-esteem and promoting healthy attitudes and habits that will last.

ONGOING Yoga for Kids, 10:15-10:45 (ages 4-6), 11-11:30am (ages 7-10) Sat, Valparaiso Family YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr, Valparaiso. 219.762.9622. valpoymca.org. Boys and girls ages 4 to 10 can learn traditional yoga poses in fun and educational ways at this yoga class taught by certified Yogafit instructor Anita Beaudoin.

ONGOING Yogabilities, 4pm Wed, Franciscan St. Margaret Health, 5454 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.322.2037. stanthonymedicalcenter.com. This event combines movements with music to increase flexibility and strength. Stories and crafts are available for children ages 3 to 6.

SCREENINGS

ONGOING Blood Pressure Screening, 10:30-11:30am, Central Library Red Desk, 1919 W 81st Ave, Merrillville. 219.756.0744. lcplin.org. Blood pressure screenings are provided by Spring Mill Health Campus.

ONGOING Blood Profile Screening, 9am-noon, Wed and Fri, call for dates and locations. 219.762.3196 or 219.769.2258. comhs.org. A 12-hour fast is necessary before this screening, which checks cholesterol, HDL/LDL ratio, glucose and triglycerides and provides results in only a few minutes.

ONGOING Peripheral Arterial Disease Screenings, call to register, Community Hospital Fitness Pointe, 9950 Calumet Ave, Munster. 219.934.2830. comhs.org. This 15-minute screening checks for any indication of Peripheral Arterial Disease and blockages in leg arteries.

ONGOING Personal Training Initial Assessment, call to register, Valparaiso Family YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr, Valparaiso. 219.462.4185. valpoymca.org. This consultation features a fitness assessment of body composition, resting heart rate, blood pressure, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. Participants must fast from food, caffeine and activity for four hours prior to the testing.

ONGOING Scoliosis Screening, by appointment only, Southlake Campus, NeuroScience Institute, 200 E 89th Ave, Merrillville. 219.738.4926. methodisthospitals.org. Get checked for spine curvature by making an appointment for this free screening.

ONGOING Sleep Apnea Screening, Duneland YMCA, 215 Roosevelt St, Chesterton. Portage YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage. Valparaiso YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing, Valparaiso. 219.764.4567. porterhealth.com. No appointment is necessary for these free sleep apnea screenings performed by Porter’s Sleep Disorders Institute. For dates and times, call 219.764.4567.

SPECIAL EVENTS

MAY 5 Walk for Sojourner Truth House, 9am, Froebel Alumni Park, 410 W 13th Ave, Gary. 219.885.2282. walkforsth.org. Participants will join hundreds of walkers as they support the day center for homeless and at-risk women and children from the Northwest Indiana/Chicagoland area that serves more than 1,500 individuals per month. Funds raised provide food, clothing, medical treatment, therapeutic educational groups, and safe, affordable housing.

MAY 5-6 60th Anniversary Campout, 4pm, Indiana Dunes State Park Group 1 Camp Site, 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton. 219.926.1952. savedunes.org. Save the Dunes and the Field Museum will sponsor this event featuring a night hike led by Laura Milkert of Field Museum and Erin Crofton of Save the Dunes. There will also be a morning bird hike on May 6. Both hikes are open to those who may not wish to camp. Participants should bring food and drink. Campsites are limited, so those interested should call Eric Neagu at 773.403.5137 or email [email protected] to RSVP.

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Dr. Jay Platt has served Northwest Indiana for over 20 years with quality oral surgery care. Choosing an oral surgeon is an important decision. Our team is composed of experienced professionals who are dedicated to your care. Dr. Platt attends 80 or more hours of Continuing Education per year and provides many Continuing Education seminars to the surrounding dental community. Dr. Platt has extensive training and expertise in placing dental implants, preserving and rebuilding the jaw, and treating conditions that affect a person’s face, teeth and mouth structures. Dr. Platt has placed thousands of implants over the past 20 years. We have a state-of-the-art Cone Beam CT Scanner in our office which provides full-cranial anatomically correct 3D images enabling us to better plan for patient care and treatment. We offer a no-cost consultation and a complimentary CT scan if necessary for patients who are treated by Dr. Platt.

Do You Need to Go to an Implant Center?You have undoubtedly seen and heard t.v. and radio ads promoting implant centers which are springing up all over the country. Many of them are advertising the convenience of having everything under one roof: the surgeon, the prosthodontist, the dental lab and a CT scan. It is certainly convenient for the patients and the doctors providing treatment to have everything in one location; however, convenience should not be the primary consideration with implant treatment. The most important factors should be the experience of the treating

clinicians, especially since surgical procedures are involved, so that each patient receives the optimal outcome. Some implant centers claim to be the leaders in implant dentistry and to have more experience than other clinicians. It is implied that because of the volume of implants placed and restored they are more experienced. However, the volume of implants placed in some cases is for all of their centers. The truth is that some of the doctors in these centers are very experienced and some are not any more experienced than their colleagues in the area. Some implant centers have general dentists placing and restoring

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Please feel free to contact our implant coordinator, Monette, if you have any questions about treatment or to schedule a no-cost consultation.

implants who do not have near the training or experience as specialists. It is important to remember that this “advertising” is intended to “sell” the benefits of those particular implant centers, and you should take this into consideration when evaluating your various options.

Immediate Full Arch Provisional RestorationImmediate Full Arch Provisional Restoration is a specific treatment option that is not appropriate for all patients. It is a suitable treatment option for those patients who are missing all of their upper and/or lower teeth, and who have adequate bone conditions to support an arch of teeth with only 4 implants. For these select patients fewer implants would be required, no bone grafting would be necessary, and so it is typically less costly than other implant procedures. However, consumers should know that only certain patients are candidates for this procedure. Furthermore, there are other treatment options for the lower jaw that involve only two implants fastened to a denture and are therefore, even less costly than the “Immediate Full Arch Provisional Restoration” procedure. Bone grafting and larger numbers of implants are often required to replace either the upper or lower teeth. Patients who have lost a great deal of bone from wearing dentures for years are not

good candidates for the “Immediate Full Arch Provisional Restoration” procedure, as they usually need bone grafting. For example, if patients have lost a lot of bone in the upper jaw, then the “Immediate Full Arch Provisional Restoration” procedure would not provide sufficient lip support, so their mouth would appear flattened. Although this is a concept that is very appealing to consumers, many experienced surgical specialists prefer to recommend traditional treatment options to their patients that are documented with long-term clinical data. This could include bone grafting and more than four implants for each jaw.

No Need to Change Dentists!Unlike some “one stop shop” dental implant centers that make you use their dentists; we work with you and your current dentist. We are very fortunate in that in Northwest Indiana and Northeastern Illinois, there are many outstanding restorative clinicians. Dr. Platt works with most of them on a regular basis. We would encourage you to seek treatment from your current dentist whom you have a long standing relationship with. If you do not currently have a dentist, we can refer you to one that we work with frequently.

ALZHEIMER’SAT BAY

on your mind

Can it be true? Can something as simple as adding an exercise routine to your current lifestyle actually stave off Alzheimer’s disease? Recent studies say yes, that regular exercise can actually prevent the occurrence in

people who are genetically predisposed to the

disease—a disease which attacks the memory and the ability to function,

resulting in death.Working

out, it seems, can actually prevent

the formation of plaques in the brain

that cause Alzheimer’s, say the studies. As many as

20 percent of the population carries the Alzheimer’s gene—

and the resulting possibility of forming the plaques. Exercise can

substantially reduce that possibility in spite of the genetic propensity, says

the recent research.According to Dr. M. Hytham Rifai, a

Merrillville neurological and spinal surgeon

practicing at Franciscan St. Anthony in Crown Point—as well as the University of Illinois in Chicago—doing things such as jogging, walking or biking for as little as 20 minutes five times a week can do the trick. But he cautions—this is a preventative only. Once Alzheimer’s has set in, there is no way to “cure” it. It takes its course and progresses, although there are medications that alleviate some symptoms. Exercise can also strengthen people who already have the disease, says Rifai, making it easier to live with Alzheimer’s. But nothing makes it go away.

The theory behind vigorous exercise and the prevention of Alzheimer’s is fairly simple. Plaques form in the brain cells when the brain lacks oxygen, explains Rifai. Exercise that increases the heart rate increases the oxygen to the brain, which ultimately provides for healthier brain cells.

“The research is very recent,” Rifai says. “But we’ve never had such data before.” All of which Rifai says is promising. Still, he calls the research data “very primitive.” And he expects all kinds of studies to follow. Hopefully the data from the recent studies will be duplicated—which will be heartening news for people who are prone to developing Alzheimer’s.

Rifai says it is important to make people aware of how important exercise is to brain health, in general. “This is a very hot topic,” he says. —Bonnie McGrath

Studies say exercise can stave off disease

KEEPING


Told I would be interviewing Shea Vaughn, mother of Vince, about her new book, Shea Vaughn’s Breakthrough—The 5 Living Principles to Defeat Stress, Look Great and Find Total Well-Being [Health Communications Inc., 2011], I conjured the image of hunky Vince, only with long hair.

Au contraire. Lithe and slender, pretty and petite, Shea Vaughn certainly looks much younger than your typical grandmother of five, but then most grandmothers haven’t developed a health

and wellness program based in part on the philosophy of Bruce Lee.“Lee had the vision and the fortitude to know that there isn’t just

one way, whether it’s Eastern or Western,” Vaughn says. “He took the different fighting styles and philosophies that he studied and combined them into a way of life called Jeet Kune Do. It was an understanding that our Western way of being disconnected from our hearts, minds and bodies wasn’t healthy.”

Using Jeet Kune Do as a start, Vaughn created SheaNetics, a wellness and exercise combo of the best East and West values and movements, that adheres to five transformational principles: Commitment, Perseverance, Self-Control, Integrity and Love, as well as a core physical training program incorporating yoga, Pilates, tai chi, martial arts, Zumba and ballet.

“By learning the principles we achieve a balance which leads to self-control and healthy lifestyles,” says Vaughn, a certified fitness instructor who teaches and consults in Chicago. “If you work at achieving these, you can apply them in every decision you make.”

Though Vaughn says her book is applicable to women of all ages, she particularly sees it as beneficial for women 45 and older who often have many types of unresolved issues. “Breakthrough is when your perspective changes,” she says. “A lot of times we ignore what is in front of us, but then it keeps coming back to us. And we handle that by being reactive, but reactive is not sustainable. When we try to talk ourselves into thinking it’ll be okay but without accepting what the reality is, it won’t be. Breakthrough is when you recognize your issues and address them. By doing so, you find a balance that gives you control.”

For more information, visit mysheanetics.com. —Jane Ammeson

Shea Vaughn’s BreakthroughSheaNetics combines the best of East and West values and movements

HEA

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Seeking medical care as soon as possible is important to make a full recovery and decrease the chance of developing long-term problems. The Concussion Clinic at Community Hospital, Munster Indiana has a team of medical professionals experienced in evaluating and treating concussions. If you have a head injury, don't wait to seek medical care. Call Community Hospital's Concussion Clinic at 219-836-4461 and get back in the lineup.

As running, jumping, weightlifting and the everyday increase of life’s demands lead to wear and tear on joints, turning to orthopedic specialists for help is not just for older people. Advances in technology are helping young people live without

joint pain.The biggest group of people receiving joint

replacements is still the 60-and-older crowd, says Dr. Surender Dhiman, a board certified orthopedic surgeon affiliated with St. Catherine Hospital and Community Healthcare System.

But on younger patients who have painful wear and tear, there are options, such as partial joint replacement instead of a total joint replacement. “In younger people, we tend to do joint preserving

surgery, where we try to protect the joint and save it,” Dhiman says.

When there is trauma to a joint that takes out a chunk of cartilage, the repair typically

involves plugging cartilage into the hole, similar to the way a dentist would fill a cavity in a tooth.

The pieces of a human joint function are similar to the mechanics of brakes on a car, he says. And just as brake pads wear down over time, so can parts of a joint. Running and jumping, especially on a person with a heavy frame, can erode the pieces. That is where an orthopedic surgeon steps in.

“What we are trying to do is have a surface that is smooth, can glide easily, to reproduce the same movement as the body,” he says.

In older patients, that often means a total joint replacement. A new joint typically lasts ten to fifteen years, Dhiman says.

Adults tend to be most active in their twenties. They slow down a little in their thirties. In their forties, they may limit their physical activities to the weekends. By their fifties, they begin to see the effects of the impact they put on their body in their twenties.

But Dhiman stresses that everyone is built differently and they have different variables that affect their health. “Not every athlete is going to have problems,” he says.

In general, people want to function at a very

WHEN JOINT PAIN STRIKES YoungThere are options for those in need

HINGING ON A

PAIN-FREE

Leading an active lifestyle is vital to healthy living. But

what about people who face pain in everyday

tasks? On the next few pages, local doctors

and some of their patients show us what is possible in today’s world of orthopedics.

From minimally invasive procedures to innovative surgeries,

the industry has come a long way, and

help is out there.

future

Dr. Dwight Tyndall says technology has also allowed for more precision in the surgery room. Dr. Tyndall partners with Dr. Nitin Khanna at Spine Care Specialists, which is a division of Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana.

JOHN LUKE, FILE | THE TIMES

FROM ACHES TO SURGERYDr. Surender Dhiman, a board certified orthopedic surgeon who is affiliated with St. Catherine Hospital and Community Healthcare System, says joint pain typically starts as aching. People tend to use over-the-counter medicines to ease the aching. Over time, aching often leads to stiffness and pain, and sometimes interferes with everyday life.

“When their pain becomes overwhelming and takes over their lives, they come to see us,” Dhiman says.

X-rays and MRI images help doctors determine the degree of wear and tear on a joint.

From there, treatment is discussed. That can include repairing a tear, smoothing roughness, resurfacing part of the joint or undergoing a total joint replacement, Dhiman says.

Val Vickroy broke her arm in the third grade (cheerleading mishap) and her ankle in sixth grade (soccer). She landed back in the E.R. for a fractured hand during her senior year of high school (she

tripped while skipping).She’s not complaining. The Illinois State

University sophomore laughs, recalling her too-cool custom casts. Their respective colors: Neon purple, hot pink and fluorescent yellow.

The latter “was almost glow-in-the-dark,” says Vickroy, 19, of Tinley Park, Ill. “People would say, ‘What a groovy cast!’”

A cross between a psychic balm and a fashion statement, eye-catching fiberglass casts are hip, eclipsing the white plaster mainstay that has immobilized limbs for two centuries.

Dr. Daryl O’Connor, who sets up to ten broken bones a week at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital west of Chicago, says patients began requesting casts of many colors about ten years ago. “I think there’s every color available under the sun,” the sports medicine specialist says.

He credits student athletes for leading the charge of the nonwhite brigade. Boys typically request school colors, while girls “go with purple, pink or navy blue,” the board-certified surgeon says.

As for adults, they favor neutral shades like navy, white and black, while tots gravitate to “flashy” colors, says O’Connor, who is affiliated with the Loyola University Health System.

Most patients choose one or two colors, but a client with a long leg cast—which may require three roles of casting tape—can exit with a tricolor design.

Letting people choose their cast color makes them active participants in the process. Consequently, “they’re more likely to take care of the cast,” O’Connor says.

Traditional casting involves wrapping a damp, plaster-laced bandage around an injured limb. As the gauze dries and hardens, it forms a tough, protective mold around the injured bone.

The method is cheap and effective. It also is problematic. The resulting cast is heavy

and hard to maneuver.In contrast, fiberglass casting tape dries

faster and produces a lighter, waterproof shell that allows a greater range of motion.

Medical-supply manufacturers (Lance Armstrong is a fan of pink Kinesio tape) savvily issue tapes in a wide range of colors to complement uniforms and individual tastes. Factor in Sharpies, stickers and adhesive decals (casttoo.com), and casts can evolve into works of art.

For Annette Giacomazzi, enduring a dull white cast adds insult to injury. Her company, CastCoverZ, offers a vast array of cast covers—stretchy fabric sleeves that fit over casts—in more than fifty patterns. High-style patients can model animal prints, stripes, stars, hearts, neon dots, even skulls or flames.

“When you feel better, you heal better,” says Giacomazzi, inspired to launch her line of washable covers ($16.99 and up) after stitching slings for an accident-prone daughter. Consumers agree. In two years, sales at castcoverz.com have surpassed six figures and the mom-entrepreneur is mulling contracts with Fortune 500 companies.

Would-be hipsters take note: Some experts still recommend plaster casts for acute fractures. “You can mold better to the contour of the limb and joint,” says Dr. Fred Klepsch of Crown Point.

The orthopedic surgeon, affiliated with Franciscan St. Anthony Health in Crown Point, does stock lemonade-hued casting tape for simple mishaps. For the record, pale yellow casts showcase doodles well. “People like to draw on them,” Klepsch says.

For Vickroy, her choices in casts reflect her personality and true colors. “I’ve always been a standout, with bright colors,” she says. “And my highlighter-yellow cast stood out.” —Molly Woulfe

BE true TO YOUR HUES

Cool patients cast off white plaster casts for funky hues

TO YOUR HUES

Cool patients cast off white plaster casts for funky hues

COURTESY OF CASTCOVERZ.COM

high level, says Dr. Nitin Khanna, a spine surgeon with Spine Care Specialists. “People don’t want to be slowed down,” he says.

Today’s technologies in orthopedic medicine allow people to resume living a healthy, active lifestyle after surgery, Khanna says.

Right-handed Khanna partners with left-handed spine surgeon Dr. Dwight Tyndall, also of Spine Care Specialists, to perform every surgery together. The cooperation makes surgeries go more quickly and

decreases the chance of infection, because patients are not open on the operating table as long.

Tyndall says different age groups have different needs and expectations. A young person who works and moves around a lot has more demands on his body than an older person who may not be as active.

Doctors do not determine treatment solely on X-rays. A lot depends on the patient’s level of pain, says Dr. Joseph Hecht, a primary partner at Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana. “Some people do better, even though their X-rays look bad,” he says.

Orthopedic technology has advanced, both in procedures and joint materials. With options such as porous metal, ceramics and plastic, doctors can choose the

best fit for patients, determining which one will hold up to the patient’s activity level, Hecht says.

Age is a factor. A 38-year-old or 48-year-old patient with an arthritic knee, for example, would probably be treated through bracing, physical therapy and injections. That treatment could even carry through to someone in his fifties.

But, depending on all the factors, total joint replacement may be a more feasible choice for a patient in his sixties or older. —Vanessa Renderman



He had coached his 9-year-old son in baseball and 12-year-old daughter in softball. “I’d have to throw it back underhand,” he says.

The now 42-year-old had been weight lifting since he was 14, growing up in Highland. Behind-the-head lifting wore on his shoulders. While playing on a football scholarship at Butler University, he was injected with cortisone shots to ease the pain. But by senior year, his shoulder was being wrapped.

When he became a police officer after working five years as a pharmacist, the physical demands only compounded his pain. “My shoulders got worse, my mobility got worse,” he says.

During training exercises, he couldn’t put his hands behind his back to be handcuffed.

One doctor told him he had a frozen shoulder,

but physical therapy gave little relief. He was referred to Dr. Anthony Romeo, orthopedic surgeon and head of the Shoulder Service at Rush Medical College, who also serves as team physician for the Chicago White Sox and the doctor who performed landmark surgery on pitcher Jake Peavy.

After Romeo and a medical resident reviewed X-rays of his shoulders, Larson sat in an exam room, overhearing their conversation on the other side of the door. His shoulder movements had created ridges in the joints, which was coupled with arthritis. “The resident said, ‘He’ll never be able to be a cop again,’” Larson says.

His heart sank.When the doctors came in the room, they

clarified that an end to his professional career would be likely with one type of surgery. But, the surgery they wanted for Larson was different. It was expected to bring back a full range of motion.

The procedure creates a new shoulder with no plastic socket. Instead, the surgeon reams a new, deeper biological socket. That socket forms a layer of fibrocartilage. Over time, it molds itself around the metal ball of the upper arm.

With his level of activity, Larson was a good candidate for the “ream and run”—as it is known—surgery, Romeo says.

“We’ve learned that total shoulder replacement takes away people’s desired lifestyle,” Romeo says. “We needed another solution.”

A traditional ball-and-socket replacement would not hold up well to powerful activities. Larson would have been restricted to lifting no more than 25 pounds per arm.

Larson had surgery on his right shoulder April 18, 2011. He was back at work four months later. Surgery on his left shoulder was October 17, and he returned to work the first week of February.

Larson, who is in his fourteenth year with the Hammond Police Department, continues to strengthen his left shoulder through rehabilitation. Increased upper body activity, coupled with medical advances, has changed the story on shoulder surgery.

“We’ve become less tolerant of the recommendation that you’re just going to have to live with this,” Romeo says. —Vanessa Renderman

Procedure puts Hammond cop back on the streets

A WEIGHT HIS SHOULDERS

OFF Hammond Police Cpl. Todd Larson

The interrupted sleep was annoying. And having

to reposition his holster was frustrating. But,

Hammond Police Cpl. Todd Larson finally turned to

medical intervention for his shoulder pain when he

struggled to play catch with his children.

later. Surgery on his left shoulder was October 17, and he returned to work the first week of February.

Larson, who is in his fourteenth year with the Hammond Police Department, continues to strengthen his left shoulder through rehabilitation. Increased upper body activity, coupled with medical advances, has changed the story on shoulder

“We’ve become less tolerant of the recommendation that you’re just going to have to live with this,”

—Vanessa

TONY V. MARTIN PHOTOS | THE TIMES


Technology continues to have a big impact on the region’s orthopedic patients through smaller incisions, less invasive and more precise procedures and quicker recovery times. From the office to the surgery room, computers

and the latest innovations are now entrenched in the

orthopedic world.With a background in engineering, Dr. Nitin

Khanna, of Spine Care Specialists in Munster, is a “huge tech guy” who celebrates and embraces the benefits of technology’s place in the world of medicine. “I have always had an aptitude for technology. It’s exciting when you feel like you

are one step ahead of the curve,” he says. “With minimally invasive procedures, it’s all about how can we do what we need to do by disrupting the least amount of tissue possible. The concept is God built you better than I can fix you.”

Dr. Khanna has had the opportunity to work on advancements in spine care and spinal surgery, including Interlaminar Lumbar Instrumented Fusion. “One of the benefits of my background is I’ve worked to bring some minimally invasive technology to the market. I have worked on specific devices for common conditions that afflict lower back pain including ILIF. I was asked to be part of a design team that is a pioneer on MLIS [another minimally invasive procedure],” he says. “The standard had been making a large incision and disrupting a lot of the musculature of the back, which made for a longer recovery period. Now we are able to do it with such a small incision.”

Dr. Dwight Tyndall says technology has also allowed for more precision in the surgery room. Dr. Tyndall partners with Dr. Khanna at Spine Care Specialists, which is a division of Orthopaedic

Specialists of Northwest Indiana. “With an MRI scan, you get very precise information before the operation. We are going into surgery with a lot of information, even more than we had ten years ago, because the diagnostic imaging is so good we now know exactly what we are going to operate on,” he says. “Technology has made our lives easier. We now use microscopes when we operate for smaller incisions, less trauma and quicker recovery.”

Dr. Judson B. Wood Jr., an orthopedic surgeon at Methodist Hospitals, says as we move forward, the focus continues to be on better patient outcomes.

MOVING FORWARD

Patients benefit from tech’s place in orthopedic world

Continued on page 24

IN MEDICINE

Dr. Nitin Khanna of Spine Care Specialists ILIF Affix

Plate. Spine X-ray showing MAS-PLIF System (Minimal Access Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion)

TONY V. MARTIN PHOTOS | THE TIMES


“The computer is a powerful tool that has made its way into surgery. When we perform replacements, there is a big difference in post-op blood loss than we saw with the cuts made prior to the introduction of the computer navigation system,” he says. “It seems patients do a lot better as far as recovery time and they go about their normal daily living at a quicker pace.”

Methodist Hospitals recently unveiled its Multi-Specialty Navigational Operating Room Suite, which focuses on neurological, spinal and orthopedic surgeries. The computer-assisted surgery suite includes the Stryker Navigation System. “The new surgery suite is all state-of-the-art, from the monitors and X-rays to the lighting and computer system. We can make our measurements from readings the computer gives us simultaneously. In the old days, we had an X-ray up on a board and we had to look back and forth,” Dr. Wood says. “Everything is integrated and there is no guesswork.”

For technology to truly have an impact, it has to be widely welcomed by the majority of physicians, Dr. Khanna says. “Mixing technology and medicine is sometimes a very challenging venture, because physicians are sometimes slow to adapt best practices. With the introduction of electronic medical records, a lot of physicians were against it. I think with any technology, it is all in the user and how you take advantage of it,” he says. “Technology for the sake of technology is not an advancement. There has to be a clear, distinct advantage over what we were doing before. Some technologies have come and gone.” —Lesly Bailey

The Methodist Hospitals surgeons pause during a recent inspection of the hospital’s new Multi-Specialty Navigational Operating Room Suite. Pictured from left are Dr. Judson B. Wood Jr., Dr. Elian Shepherd, Dr. Richard Oni, and Dr. Hytham Rifai. PROVIDED

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Healthy feet are a must. We use them every day and require them to support us—many times for hours on end.

But what do we do to take care of and support them? From barefoot running to flow walking,

we look at ways to keep your dogs from barking as we head outdoors for summer. Speaking of summer, those flip-flops you like to wear may

not be doing your feet any favors.

PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT

FORWARD

take the first steps to

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Nerve Release Surgery Helps Restore Normal SensationDr. Michael Wood has enjoyed an excellent reputation for providing cutting-edge techniques for treating patients with foot and ankle problems. Dr. Wood is pleased to announce the news that surgical decompression of lower-extremity nerves (nerve release surgery) has show itself to be a highly successful method for reversing pain and numbness and restoring sensation in the patient who suffers from diabetic neuropathy.

Neuropathy is the lack of normal sensation that often affects an extremity. It is most common in people with diabetes and is the leading cause of ulceration, infection, and amputation.

Dr. Wood has neurosensory testing units (NST), a pain free nerve exam. The unit is able to assess patients who are at high risk for wounds, infections and amputations. The information obtained from an NST exam allows physicians to surgically decompress the nerves and offers the patient an opportunity for restoration of normal or near-normal sensation.

Dr. Wood has published his surgical results in world-renowned journals. The September/October 2003 Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery reports an approximately 67% success rate in improving sensation in the first three months after surgery, and an approximately 90% success rate in reducing pain significantly. Even

more impressive than these results is the fact that, of approximately 750 decompression surgeries, there has been less than 1% ulceration, re-ulceration or amputation over the last 14 years in this patient population. Ideally, with nerve release surgery, the patient has restoration of near normal or normal sensation, even if they have suffered with diabetic neuropathy for years or decades.

More important is the fact that nerve release surgery helps to prevent wound formation in the high-risk diabetic patient. With the prevention of wounds, we are finally able to halt the cascade of catastrophic events that can lead to infection and amputation.

Nerve release surgery of the lower extremity is done on an outpatient basis. Nerve regeneration (nerve healing) occurs at a rate of about one inch per month; complete nerve regeneration may take as long as 18 to 24 months.

This treatment, like any treatment, is not a cure-all. However, for patients with diabetes who meet the criteria, surgical release of lower extremity nerves offer them new hope.


1 EXERCISE YOUR FEET. You know that all muscles need regular exercise to stay healthy. Foot muscles are no different. Whether you

are a gym rat or a couch potato, chances are you have never given much thought to the muscles that make the foot arch or the ones that move the toes. However, foot exercise is among the most basic health programs. You don’t even have to get out of a chair to do it initially. Slip off your shoes and socks and get to work lifting each toe individually. Try it—it sounds a lot easier than it really is!

2 SPREAD THE TOES. Toe abduction, or a movement of the toes away from each other, is a normal part of a healthy gait pattern. Years of

carrying weight too far forward on the feet, wearing too-small shoes as a kid, and narrow toe boxes on certain styles of shoe have really limited the toe spreading motion. Selecting footwear that provides ample room to splay your toes when walking is the healthiest choice; ideally, your toes should spread just as the fingers do.

If tight toes have become a habit, foot alignment socks can work on spreading them for you. The

perfect product for the proactive individual, you can work on restoring muscle and fascial tissue lengths while you watch television at night.

3 GET RID OF THE HEEL. Podiatric journals have recently become riddled with articles illustrating that for every positive degree of heel

(for a point of reference, the one inch found on a man’s dress shoe creates an average angle of twelve degrees), there is a resulting angle of deformation in the lumbar spine, pelvis, knees and/or ankle. There is no footwear characteristic that jars one out of whole-body alignment faster than the positive heel. If a dress shoe creates twelve positive degrees, just think about what a stiletto can do to deform the rest of the body. Pause and choose well to avoid selecting footwear that undoes all your hard work and increases mechanical stress on a cellular level.

4 BE ATTACHED TO YOUR SHOES. It is surprising how quickly the flip-flop has moved beyond the favorite pool accessory to

the ultimate fashion staple. Flip-flops are usually

Katy Bowman is the author of Every Woman’s Guide to Foot Pain Relief: The New Science of Healthy Feet.

Your foot is a complex feat of engineering and a critical element in how you stand, walk and balance. Of all your many body parts, your feet are likely the most neglected. One in four people ages 45 and older have foot pain, and approximately one in six have ankle problems. These numbers hint at the scope of the issue, but they leave out the many other health ailments that stem from achy, throbbing and painful feet.

Besides the obvious issues of the toes, arch and plantar fascia, foot pain can become a much larger, whole-body health issue. Two-thirds of those with chronic foot pain have reported their foot issue has created some sort of disability elsewhere in their lives—for example, decreasing balance while walking or standing, increasing osteoarthritis in the knees and hips, or preventing them from starting or maintaining a healthy walking program.

The good thing about foot health is that it takes just a little effort to make great improvements. Here are five ways to drastically improve the state of your feet starting now.

5STEPS TO HEALTHIER FEET

PRO

VID

ED

Katy Bowman is the author of Woman’s Guide to Foot Pain Relief: The New Science of Healthy Feet.

HEALTHIER

Walking is a fantastic exercise, and it’s beneficial for all ages and fitness levels. But like all exercise, if you don’t do it correctly you won’t reap all the benefits, and worse, you can exacerbate existing injuries and even create new ones.

According to Dr. Michael S. Nirenberg, from Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point, bad habits of walking with poor posture and with the wrong muscles are a common problem. These habits get repeated step after step, so Dr. Nirenberg invented FloWalking, a low-impact, natural technique that reprograms your body’s motions to enable you to walk as correctly as possible. Not only will this help increase the benefits of exercise, but it will also help you as you move through your day.

“We walk about 5,000 steps each day, and as a result of walking incorrectly, people can get muscle and skeletal pain,” Dr. Nirenberg says. “FloWalking teaches people to walk as correctly as possible. People have such unique ways of walking that doctors of forensic podiatry can identify people in crimes from their walk, even if their faces aren’t visible. This is because the suspect arrested had a poor habit of walking that was unique to him. This has led to criminals being arrested.”

Not everyone walks poorly, but most people have bad habits, Dr. Nirenberg adds. Some will let their head hang in front of them when they walk, others won’t use their mid-section to wind back and forth as they step. Some might not use the muscles in legs and feet to walk. “To get from Point A to Point B we use the minimal effort we need,” Dr. Nirenberg says. “And when you walk with incorrect posture, you’re not burning all the calories you

could be burning or helping your muscles.”The great thing about walking correctly is you can

do it anywhere, in the aisle of the grocery store, on a treadmill, on a path. Wherever you walk. And you’ll burn more calories and feel better.

Some of the benefits of FloWalking include faster weight loss, greater energy, increased fitness, a taller, leaner look, less joint and muscle strain and pain, and fewer walking-related injuries. “Walking correctly becomes second nature, and you forget your own way of walking,” Dr. Nirenberg says.

Each letter of FloWalk represents a step in walking. “The first step in FloWalking is F, which stands for learning awareness of the feet. People learn to use their feet properly so that all the muscles in the foot are engaged. L is for lengthening the body when you take a step. Grow tall and be upright and straight as possible. O is for outward, which is a way to breathe,

W is for wind, which means to wind the body back and forth as you walk.”

It’s important to note that FloWalking is not a strange way of walking. When you walk in the FloWalking way, you look confident and tall.

By walking in a healthier manner you get the full benefit from every step you take, and you’ll experience less achiness and pain throughout your body. Once you’re off and walking well you’ll want to walk more, which leads to greater fitness and health. —Sharon Biggs Waller

THE BENEFITS OF FLOWALKINGLow-Impact, Natural Technique Reprograms Your Body’s Motions

FOR YOUR INFORMATIONTo learn more about FloWalking and upcoming classes visit flowalking.com

enjoyed for their lack of restriction—lots of fresh air and minimal friction. They’re also time-friendly. Don’t have time both to find matching socks and to bend down to tie your shoes? Flip-flops may have become your regular foot attire. One big drawback to the bikini of footwear, though, is the fact that it stays on your foot only with major muscle clenching and bony alteration. Research on gait patterns and poorly attached shoes demonstrates increased risk for hammer toes, plantar fasciitis and knee pain with flip-flops. Therefore, keep your favorite flops around for water and beach activities, and invest in the newer Roman-style sandals that offer the same open-air feel but with better binding.

5 BAREFOOT TIME IS A NECESSITY! Optimal foot health is ultimately reached through full,

shoeless interaction between nature and foot. Foot health can become compromised, however, when you walk on unyielding, human-made surfaces that may or may not be speckled with broken glass and other dangerous items. Small doses of going barefoot (wearing socks is okay, too) can be done in your home; just make sure the area is free of debris before you do. Have you seen those new glove-like shoes? They are new minimalistic footwear brands designed to help restore full function of the feet.

Before you go baring it all, however, keep in mind the supporting structures of the feet have been, for the most part, inert for the bulk of your life. Loading fresh arches on long walks after removing a lifetime of support can stress and strain tissues. It is important to think about building strength in the musculature of the feet just as we would with any other part of our body that has gone unused. Start with smaller doses of barefoot walking, and make sure you do lots of foot stretching in between walking sessions. —Katy Bowman

Katy Bowman, MS, is the author of Every Woman’s Guide to Foot Pain Relief: The New Science of Healthy Feet [BenBella]. She is the director of the Restorative Exercise Institute, a center for corrective exercise and biomechanical studies. Connect with her online at footpainbook.com.


Barefoot running is picking up speed in the running community these days, though it’s a trend that’s been afoot for many years. In fact in 1960, Ethiopian Abebe Bikila won the Olympic Marathon in bare feet. These days most “barefoot” running is actually done in shoes called minimalist that mimic bare feet, simply providing a little protection for the bottom of the feet. The minimalist approach allows the runner to drop the heel and push off with the forefoot rather than the heel, as most traditional running shoes encourage. Proponents also claim that it strengthens the muscles in the feet and lower legs, reducing injuries.

“I like running in minimalist shoes because I feel more contact with the ground. It keeps me more upright and I think I have better running form,” says Kevin Mangel, an avid runner most of his life and a sophomore on Valparaiso High School’s storied cross-country team. “Plus, running in minimalist shoes is more comfortable. Running just comes a lot easier.”

During the running season, Mangel may run upwards of 50 miles per week in minimalist shoes. He likes the Vibram FiveFingers, which looks like a toe sock with a rubberized bottom. He wears this shoe when training on soft ground and switches to a more substantial, but still minimal, shoe when training on roads or harder surfaces. Mangel has been virtually injury-free in his running career, which he attributes to smart training and coaching.

Dr. Paul Sommer, a Valparaiso podiatrist and accomplished runner, agrees with Mangel’s approach. “Minimalist running is good, but minimalist education is bad,” he says, recommending runners do some homework before beginning a barefoot approach. “First, know your foot type. Go in once to a podiatrist and discuss any issues you’ve had before. Learn what you should watch for, based on your own foot type. You may save yourself time, money and pain in the long run by preventing injury.”

Sommer cautions all feet are not created the same

and barefoot running is more doable for those with a normal to high arched foot. “Too often runners overdo it. They get these new shoes and they’re all excited. They try too much too soon and get injured. When trying a minimalist shoe, start with small runs on a soft trail and increase very gradually,” advises Sommer, who has been practicing podiatry for twenty-four years and running triathlons even longer.

“I’ve seen people succeed running barefoot. I was in a half iron man where a runner was running barefoot down the center of the road, using the painted lines on the road because it was a smoother surface than pavement,” he recalls. “People like the idea of barefoot running because they feel it’s getting back to a more natural way of running, but our feet did not evolve to hit hard pavement. We need to be

aware of the structure of our own individual feet.”Sommer is frequently asked what kind of running

shoes he recommends. “I always tell people that the best shoe is the one that fits your own foot and keeps you running. Even if there’s hype or excitement about a certain shoe, it still doesn’t work for everyone. Never neglect pain, thinking you’re going to get used to it or that it will go away. Listen to your feet.”

The price tag for minimalist running shoes isn’t exactly minimal, starting at about $75 and up. To add your own experience to the barefoot running movement, you can participate in a national online survey being conducted by the Arizona School of Podiatric Medicine. Access the survey by clicking the link on Dr. Sommer’s website, familyfoot.com. —Kim Ranegar

RUNNING ON (NEARLY)

BARE FEETA LOOK AT THE TREND AFOOT


The urge to slip them on during the first 70-degree day is strong. Affectionately known as flip-flops, this ultra casual footwear can allow you to feel the refreshing gentleness of the grass and the warmth of the sun on your bare and achingly pale winter feet. They are easy to slip on and a plain new pair can set you back a few bucks at your local convenience store.

But are they such a bargain in the long run?Essentially a flat piece of rubber without any sort of support whatsoever,

flip-flops have increasingly become a popular and accepted line of footwear to slip on, whether making a quick trip to the grocery store or running to catch a flight. However, a number of local podiatrists and health care practitioners agree that they might not be as great as you think.

“Footwear such as flip-flops and Crocs should be worn sparingly and with caution, as there is a higher risk for instability and injury with these,” explains Dan Benjamin, ATI Physical Therapy clinic director. “Proper footwear is critical to one’s healthy foot, no matter what level of fitness or working environment they may be in. Typically, we see two types of feet—ones that are very flexible or hyper-mobile and ones that are rigid or hypo-mobile. Based on these findings one’s footwear should be modified to accommodate too much or too little supination and/or pronation.”

In fact, the prolonged wearing of flip-flops can ultimately cause a multitude of foot and assorted ankle and leg problems, including shin splints, bunions and hammer toes. “Hammer toes can be a direct result of someone wearing flip-flops all of the time,” says Dr. Michael Lacey from Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point. “The toes are essentially crunched between a tiny strip of rubber for a long period of time and if you wear them all of the time, you are inevitably going to start having some muscle imbalances in your foot.”

“Oftentimes the most comfortable shoe may not be the best fit only because it may just be enabling a mechanical problem,” Benjamin adds. “Generally speaking, footwear that offers deeper heel cups with supportive insteps can really make a positive difference.”

Not only has this become a problem for adults who should know better, but especially within children whose

growth plates in the foot have yet to fuse at such a young age. “Footwear such as flip-flops and Crocs

should be worn sparingly and with caution, as there is a higher risk for instability and

injury with these,” Benjamin explains. “A 15-year-old who wears flip-

flops all the time is going to end up being a 35-year-old dealing with

a multitude of foot problems,” Dr. Lacey adds. “I would never say someone can never wear flip-flops, but as with anything, it should be done in moderation.” —Tricia Despres

SHOE WARSWhy your feet deserve better than flip-flops this summer

should know better, but especially within children whose growth plates in the foot have yet to fuse at such a young age. “Footwear such as flip-flops and Crocs

should be worn sparingly and with caution, as there is a higher risk for instability and

injury with these,” Benjamin explains. “A 15-year-old who wears flip-

flops all the time is going to end up being a 35-year-old dealing with

a multitude of foot problems,” Dr. Lacey adds. “I would never say someone can never

CUSTOM ORTHOTICS There are generally two types of customized orthotics: rigid (functional) and soft (accommodative). A rigid orthotic is typically used to correct problems, such as pronation or supination, by putting the bones of the subtalar joint in the neutral position, relieving pressure, says Michael G. Lacey, DPM, from Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point. “A soft orthotic serves as a shock absorber to the foot,” he says. “This type is commonly used to help ease pain associated with arthritis or diabetic foot ailments. The soft orthotic also supports the arch, whereas a more rigid orthotic is used to control foot dysfunction such as plantar fasciitis.”

How are these unique orthotics made?

First, the foot is placed into a box of foam to make an exact impression. A lab uses this foam impression to create a plastic foot with the exact measurements and structure of your foot. From this exact replica, the lab will then create the arch support. A doctor will determine which materials,

depending on the foot problem, will be used to create the final orthotic.

If you find yourself wearing more than just the ordinary gym shoe, Dr. Lacey says a thinner graphite orthotic can be made for shoes that cannot accommodate the usual orthotics, such as a steel-toed boot or dress shoe.

OVER-THE-COUNTER INSERTSMost pharmacies sell shoe inserts, which are basically soft cushions made for the average foot. These are a great quick fix for special outings when you may be wearing high heels or shoes that aren’t especially comfortable. If you suffer from a foot abnormality, they probably will not offer the support you need. However, if you are unable to get a customized insert, these over-the-counter varieties are better than wearing a shoe as is.

Recently, Dr. Scholl’s has been creating custom fit orthotic inserts by using specialized kiosks that can be found where most Dr. Scholl’s products are sold. These kiosks identify the areas of your foot that experience the most pressure while also measuring the arch and foot length. From this analysis a report will tell you which of the four inserts would best serve your foot’s needs.

Our feet are important and deserve to be taken care of. When they aren’t, problems can extend beyond the foot itself and into the legs, hips and lower back. Stay on top of these issues by considering a shoe insert. Whether it’s customized by your foot doctor or sold at the nearest drug store, a little support can go a long way. —Sharon Biggs Waller

SUPPORT SYSTEMA comparison of orthotics to over-the-counter insertsWe depend on our feet to get from place to place. Putting pressure on them day in and day out can take its toll over time, resulting in a long list of ailments ranging from a limp to a hammer toe. The simplest way to correct and ease foot problems is by using an orthotic shoe insert. By taking a closer look at the benefits of both customized inserts and over-the-counter varieties, you can decide which is right for you and your valuable feet.

relieving pressure, says Michael G. Lacey, DPM, from Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point. “A soft orthotic serves as a shock absorber to the foot,” he says. “This type is commonly used to help ease pain associated with arthritis or diabetic foot ailments. The soft orthotic also supports the arch, whereas a more rigid orthotic is used to control foot dysfunction such as plantar fasciitis.”

How are these unique orthotics

G. Lacey, DPM, from Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point. “A soft G. Lacey, DPM, from Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point. “A soft orthotic serves as a shock absorber to the foot,” he says. “This type is

associated with arthritis or diabetic foot ailments. The soft orthotic also supports the arch, whereas a more supports the arch, whereas a more rigid orthotic is used to control foot dysfunction such as plantar fasciitis.”

also measuring the arch and foot length. From this analysis a report will tell you which of the four inserts would best serve your foot’s needs.

Our feet are important and deserve to be taken care of. When they aren’t, problems can extend beyond the foot itself and into the legs, hips and lower back. Stay on top of these issues by considering a shoe insert. Whether it’s customized

experience the most pressure while experience the most pressure while also measuring the arch and foot


food & fitness

Valparaiso residents Marci and Courtney Crozier shed a considerable number of pounds for better health and a brighter future as reality cameras rolled in 2011 before millions of viewers on Season 11 of NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

One year later, the mother and daughter duo agree that once the cameras are gone and attention fades, the key factor for continued success is accountability. “I still stay in touch with all of the cast from our season on Biggest Loser after spending that much time with one another on our journey,” Courtney says. “Talking with each other regularly helps keep each other accountable.”

Courtney, 23, of Valparaiso, was originally 435 pounds just before she was cast, along with her mom, on the reality series that challenges teams to lose weight in hopes of winning a $250,000 grand prize.

By the time they flew to California to begin taping the series in December 2010, she had already dropped 112 pounds on her own, putting her weight at 322 to start the competition. By the time she was eliminated, she was down to 213 pounds.

Today, she’s at 200 pounds and all smiles.But she’s not done with meeting her goal.While on the show, Dr. Rob Huizenga, considered one of the leading

weight-loss experts in the country and an associate professor of clinical medicine at UCLA, told Courtney her weight should be at 190.

“My true goal is 190, since that is what Dr. H. advised and I’m getting pretty close,” Courtney says.

Courtney’s father Kevin owns a Dairy Queen franchise, while mom

Marci, who started the show at 238 pounds and is now 162, is regional director of marketing and sales for Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness in Schererville.

Courtney and Marci have also remained friends with the personal trainers on the show, in particular, Brett Hoebel, who was one of the new trainers featured with them on the series.

Hoebel flew to Northwest Indiana in March to not only visit both Courtney and Marci, but also to participate in an open house event at Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness.

Courtney laughs at the idea that there are any “hard feelings” with Hoebel, despite some of the “edited drama” included in one of her final aired episodes. The particular episode had her and fellow contestant Hannah Curlee opting to spend a week at a spa with massages and restaurant meals rather than using the allotted money for daily personal training with Hoebel.

Marci said she has found “inspiration all around” from the response to her mission to improve her own health, while motivating her daughter

gaining confidence and

losing weightNBC’S ‘BIGGEST LOSER’ MOM AND DAUGHTER ARE STILL ON TRACK

WITH HEALTHY LIFESTYLES

alparaiso residents Marci and Courtney Crozier shed

after spending that much time

Courtney Crozier [right]and her mom

Marci at Courtney’s new YoAmazing Frozen Yogurt

shop.

TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES


Vitamin D and calcium are needed to build strong bones, says Vanessa Provins, RDCD, from Porter Health System in Valparaiso. “You need vitamin D to help increase the absorption of calcium into the bones,” she says. “So it’s a combination of the two.”

Vitamin D comes from the sun, but that can be limited in the winter. Foods rich in vitamin D include fish liver oil, butter, cream, margarine, egg yolks, liver, fortified cereals, milk, cheese and yogurt.

Calcium rich foods include yogurt and milk of any kind; fortified orange juice; all cheese but ricotta, Parmesan and Swiss in particular ; dark green vegetables such as kale and spinach; fortified soy milk and tofu. Bones have calcium, so you can increase your calcium intake with fish like sardines and canned salmon. “You can eat the bones because they’re soft, not like a regular fish bone,” Provins says.

healthy jointsVitamin C also helps to build cartilage for healthy joints. Foods rich in vitamin C include spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, potatoes and all the citrus fruits. Omega 3 fatty acids are also beneficial and these are found in fish oils, flax seed, soybean oil and canola oil.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are natural

composites in healthy cartilage (the cushion between the bones of the joint), which stimulates the growth and repair of articular cartilage. The two are now popular joint supplements, but they are not for everyone. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says recent evidence is showing the supplements can relieve the pain of osteoarthritis through anti-inflammatory effects. However, the AAOS says there are no studies that yet show the supplements slow regeneration or restore cartilage. A long-term study is beginning, sponsored by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Amiee Boswinkle, saleswoman at Baum’s Natural Foods in Munster, suggests trying the supplement out, but make sure to give it six to eight weeks to be able to tell if it’s helping. “Because glucosamine and chondroitin products are made from a shellfish source, those with shellfish allergies should not take it,” she says. There is a synthetic version, however. Always inform your doctor if you’re taking glucosamine and chondroitin, especially if you are diabetic or pregnant. —Sharon Biggs Waller

healthy bonesKeep them that way through wise food and supplement choices

and others. “Getting your weight under control and your health and wellness on the right track is something that each person has to do for themselves,” Marci says. “No matter how much you might be pushed by others to do it, the desire has to come from you to want better lifestyle habits.”

Marci has been helping cheer on Courtney for her latest project. She opened a new frozen yogurt business this spring in Valparaiso called Yo Amazing Yogurt Shoppe at 2620 LaPorte Avenue.

Courtney describes herself as “a major investor,” along with co-partner Kevin Coppinger, another investor and the man who has run the Dari-Dip frozen treat business in Portage since 1996. “This is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Courtney says. “This is a healthy option that’s all-natural and satisfying.”

Featuring healthy options with the calories and nutritional information clearly posted for customers, the soft-serve frozen yogurt is available with a wide selection of toppings. And best of all, it’s all a self-serve operation. A dish loaded to the brim sells for around $3, once weighed.

With more than seventy flavor varieties to be rotated, the opening week selection included strawberry, blueberry, mango, banana, white cake batter, chocolate, apple pie, peanut butter and a host of others.

Her favorite topping is a recently discovered exotic option that has also been a hit with customers: “Boba balls,” also known as a fresh, water-filled, thin tapioca pearl, harvested and preserved fresh rather than the rubbery variety found in puddings and “Thai Bubble Tea Smoothies.”

Also new to Valparaiso, and at Courtney’s side as a co-manager to run her new frozen yogurt biz, is another reality star. Alex Respess, 23, from Georgia, is Courtney’s boyfriend and also the star of last year’s ABC hit show Extreme Makeover—Weight Loss Edition. Alex lost an amazing 216 pounds, nearly half of his 459 pound weight, in just 12 months.

Part of the journey for Courtney’s transformation has included surgical procedures since she returned to Northwest Indiana. “So far, since losing so much weight, I’ve had an abdominoplasty [tummy tuck], skinplasty and a breastlift,” Courtney says. “Since I didn’t win on The Biggest Loser, all I came away with was the daily

stipend we were paid. So I would never have been able to afford these procedures if I hadn’t had a local surgeon step forward and offer to do this work for me.”

Courtney says Dr. Mark Grevious, a plastic surgeon from Franciscan St. Margaret Health in Hammond, has donated his services for the procedures. “I have a new business and a new look and attitude, but it’s still all me on the inside,” Courtney says.

For more information about Yo Amazing, visit yoamazing.com or call 219.462.9696. —Philip Potempa

Vitamin C also helps to build cartilage for healthy joints. Foods rich in vitamin C include spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, potatoes and all the citrus fruits.

found in fish oils, flax seed, soybean oil and canola oil.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are natural


DR. BRUCE J . THOMA

Growth and sports are unique factors in young patientsAs a general orthopedic surgeon for 25 years, Dr. Bruce J. Thoma has

worked with patients of all ages and over the years developed an interest in arthroscopic surgery, the foot and ankle realm, and joint replacements,

since “as I get older my patients are getting older.” He has had the opportunity to bring his expertise to the community as a sports medicine

consultant for Valparaiso University and Chesterton High School.

ask the expert

Q: How is working with children and teens different from working with adults? Children and adolescents are growing. With sports-related injuries, it automatically involves a person who is not mature yet. Their bones, joints and soft tissues such as ligaments and cartilage are still growing and immature. Their injuries often entail different treatments and recovery because of this growth and immaturity.

Q: What are children and adolescents treated for most often and why is the approach different? The most common issue is broken bones and they very often involve the growth plate. This is a special plate of cartilage that exists at the ends of bones that allow children to grow taller and longer. The plates are weaker than bones as they have not calcified yet.

Q: How does this make treatment different for children and teens vs. adults? As we are growing, we often break through the growth plate rather than the bones themselves and an injury near or at the growth plate implies certain principles for treatment. Children who break bones near a growth plate often end up with better results than an adult with an injury in the same place. We can allow a child’s growth to correct a mild amount of crookedness as the growth plate affects the healing position of the bone. If a child breaks a bone near a growth plate, we

can accept the bones to be a little out of place and know that the child’s growth will correct it, while that will not occur with adults. For children, this might mean less aggressive treatment and the difference between surgeries or not, as setting and casting are still common in pediatric patients.

Q: How do you work with the community as a sports medicine consultant? I collaborate with colleagues in different disciplines on preseason physicals each summer at the high school and work with the trainers during football games if players face an issue. At Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute, we also offer a free sports screening clinic for the community from August through early June from 8 to 9 a.m. Saturdays. The clinic for school-age children provides parents the opportunity to bring their child in for an X-ray or to consult with a physical therapist or orthopedic physician. If their child twisted an ankle at practice earlier in the week, we can assess the situation and advise if the injury needs further treatment or not.

Q: What advice do you have for parents in regards to sports and their children? I have been in both roles: as a parent and as a physician. My daughter has been involved in horseback riding and my son has been involved in football and hockey. There is a fear of injury and some risk to it. I would

say as a doctor, if you think your child has a problem, get it checked out. Kids—athletes in particular—tend to minimize and they are not always truthful about what is bothering them. They don’t want to miss practice or a game. But if you think your child is having a problem, consider having it checked out with a professional.

Q: In general, what are the innovations you have seen develop over the years? The technology advancements in my time have been revolutionary. When I started out, if an individual tore his rotator cuff, we would make a four-inch incision, take out the muscle and drill the bones. Today, due to arthroscopic surgery, we utilize smaller incisions and are not disrupting the muscles as much. We also use biodegradable stitches that dissolve. Knee replacements can last twenty years or longer and with less invasive procedures, an individual can go home within a day after having a total hip replacement. Also, we are able to create computerized templates of where to cut with the utilization of MRIs. —Lesly Bailey

FOR YOUR INFORMATIONDr. Bruce J. Thoma is an orthopedic surgeon with Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute. He is an independent member of the medical staff at Porter Health System. He can be reached at 219.921.1444.

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