Anti-Inflammatory Foods

July 13, 2022

One of the most powerful tools to combat inflammation comes from the grocery store. Foods that CAUSE inflammation: Added sugars Trans Fats Red and processed meats Refined carbohydrates (highly processed white flour bread and rolls, crackers, sugary cereals, white rice) Omega-6s (canola, corn, safflower, sunflower and peanut oils, mayonnaise) Foods that FIGHT inflammation: Fresh fruits

Tips on Managing Stress

July 5, 2022

Get Moving! 150 minutes per week of aerobic exercise, like a brisk walk, is a great first step to manage inflammation, pain and stress. Meditate with deep breathing, mindfulness practice, or other practices. Practice positive psychology! Your provider can help you get started. Start a gratitude journal – write 3 things every day for which

Sleep Needs for Kids

June 28, 2022

The amount of sleep our bodies need changes throughout our lifespan.  Since 1970, our children are averaging less and less sleep – up to 40% not getting recommended amounts.  Sleep is equated to health on all levels:  Physical, mental, and emotional; and is key to performance in school sports, relationships and beyond. So how much

Physical Activity Improves Brain Health

June 21, 2022

Dr. Mary Rose Strickland When asked about benefits of physical activity, most people can list off that it is good for your heart and cardiovascular health, for your muscle and bone health, but did you know it could keep your brain healthy, too? Physical Activity can improve memory, reduce anxiety and depression, and has even

Focus on Strength, Balance Exercises to Prevent Falls

June 21, 2022

By: Dr. Mary Rose Strickland During a time when the U.S. is so focused on reducing the cost of overall medical expenses there is a staggering number that, according to medical professionals, could be significantly reduced through preventative care: $67.7 billion. That, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was the total projected

Social Connectedness vs. Social Media: How’s your Emotional Health?

June 14, 2022

Being connected to others can do more than just put a smile on your face.  Longevity, health, and physiologic measures, such as heart rate, improve with positive interaction and connection with others where mutual care and concern are present.  Connecting with others and nurturing in a mutual way activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which contrasts

Dog Owners More Likely to Meet Fitness Benchmarks

June 14, 2022

By Dr. Mary Rose Strickland It turns out our furry friends have more to offer us than companionship and unconditional love. Multiple studies show that dog owners are generally healthier and more likely to meet national fitness benchmarks than non-owners.  How likely? According to the American Heart Association, dog owners are 54 percent more likely

The Power of Vitamin D

June 9, 2022

Vitamin D makes the list of under consumed nutrients that most of us lack in our bodies. Vitamin D is important for keeping bones strong, absorbing calcium (which further helps to keep bones strong and healthy) and work with parathyroid glands. Deficiency can be associated with mood changes, bone loss, muscle cramps (or weakness), bone

Avoid These Five Running Mistakes During 5K Season

June 9, 2022

By Dr. Mary Rose Strickland It’s the season for weekend fun runs, charity 5Ks and multi-stage team relays. But as recreation and competitive runners hit the roads and trails to prepare for upcoming events, local physical therapist Mary Rose Strickland reminds us that avoiding common early season training mistakes can keep runners healthy and competitive