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Category: Health & Fitness

  • Framingham Heart Study Book Released

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – The Framingham Heart Study is famous the world over and is the subject of a new book, “A Change of Heart: How the People of Framingham, Massachusetts Helped Unravel the Mysteries of Cardiovascular Disease” by Heart Study Director Dr. Daniel Levy.

    The book, published by the Alfred A. Knopf company, is available at a discount from Amazon.com, or in local bookstores.

    (For more info, see the Framingham Heart Study section right here on framingham.com, they are among the most popular pages on the site and are visited by people throughout the world).

  • Ladies Workout Express helps American Heart Association

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – To assist the American Heart Association in their fight against heart disease, Ladies Workout Express has volunteered to open their facility to all women in the community to come in for free workouts, participate in nutrition counseling and for free beginning February 4th in exchange for a single $5 contribution to the American Heart Association. The on-line nutrition counseling, taking place for a one month period, will be provided free through our innovative Source4 Nutrition Program which not only provides, diet and nutrition advice, but also provides complete weekly menu’s, recipe’s and even compiles your shopping lists!

    Ladies Workout Express offers free workouts in February for $5 contribution

    The American Heart Association’s second annual Boston Go Red for Women event we hope will gather women together to educate them about the number-one killer of women – Heart Disease. We hope to help spread the word about the serious threat cardiovascular diseases poses to all women. Our goal will be to empower women with the knowledge and tools they need to make positive lifestyle changes that will help reduce their risk of heart disease – a disease that kills over 500,000 women each year.

    Ladies Workout Express will be an American Heart Association donation site. And to show our commitment to women’s health and well being, in exchange for every $5 donation, we will provide:

    • FREE Unlimited Workouts for the month of February

    • FREE Nutrition Initial consultation

    • FREE One month of Source4 On Line Nutrition Program

    The simplified, time-efficient workouts at Ladies Workout Express are designed just for women to keep the heart rate high enough to burn at least 600 calories in a half hour using only resistance. This 30-minute express workout has been designed to give women the most effective results in the least amount of time while touching every muscle between the shoulders and ankles.

    “It’s not so much about losing weight as it is about getting fit” says Jane Wilson, owner of Ladies Workout Express, Framingham, MA. “We now know that obesity correlates strongly with health problems and is just as dangerous as smoking. But low levels of physical activity also relate to similar diseases. We want our members to feel good about them selves and to focus of living long healthy lives and let weight loss be the byproduct.

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  • INAARA, NEW CONCEPT MEDICAL SPA, DELIVERS TREATMENT IN STYLE AND GRACIOUSNESS

    Southborough, MA – Inaara today announced the opening of its totally new concept for the delivery of cosmetic medicine, providing state-of-the-art cosmetic procedures in a beautiful, tranquil spa setting for women and men seeking image-enhancing and appearance-improving skin care.

    Opened first in Beverly Hills, California, Inaara in Southborough is the only Inaara franchise in New England. “We are offering people a new choice,” said Dr. Joy Thompson, Inaara’s managing director. “We believe that our clients will appreciate getting the best of the non-surgical cosmetic procedures in a beautiful, tranquil spa setting rather than in a sterile medical clinic. Our clients will find that they can come to us two to three times a month for their self-enhancing treatments and receive the impeccable service, pampering, and comfort they deserve.

    Dr. Elliot Lach, M.D., F.A.C.S., board certified in plastic surgery, and a widely published expert in plastic and reconstructive surgery, the medical director of Inaara, said, “The broad availability of high-tech interventional therapies warrants more than ever an understanding of basic traditional modalities for skin improvement and maintenance as well as modern treatment strategies for anti- aging. Providing the client with a balance of minimally invasive treatments requires specialized training in order to be able to customize the treatment to the individual client’s needs.”

    Inaara services include FDA-approved procedures such as Botox, laser hair removal, Photorejuvenation, and microdermabrasion. Only the latest equipment, including the most advanced laser equipment, and finest cosmeceuticals are used. Rounding out Inaara’s offerings, experts in massage therapy and facial care are on staff to provide the best in various modalities of body and skin care to support radiant health.

    In addition, Inaara will recommend highly effective, simple-to-use take-home programs that include the finest skin care products in the world. Skilled clinical staff members, including registered nurses and physician’s assistants, are trained in a culture of warmth, friendliness, and customer service. They are available during flexible business hours designed to adjust to clients’ needs.

    Inaara is conveniently located at The Crossings at White’s Corner (154 Turnpike Road, Rte. 9E. at the intersection of Breakneck Hill Road) in Southborough and is overlooking the Sudbury reservoirs.

    For more information, including hours and a full description of services offered, visit www.mymedspa.com, or call (508) 480-8883.

  • Backpack Safety for Children

    Contributed by Dr. Kayed S. Khalil

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – I do not remember carrying my books in a backpack growing up. I remember carrying all my books with a heavy-duty rubber band around them. Today it is the backpack era, placing all your books in a beautiful backpack. Yet this great idea has been misused by many school children all over the country.

    While carrying a backpack to school may seem cute and harmless, they cause clinical problems for children. Young people are putting themselves in danger by carrying too much weight. I think it is essential for children and parents to learn more about backpack injury and how to prevent them. Backpacks can cause painful back and neck problems and injuries that can lead to long-term medical problems.

    Many parents have expressed concerns about their children’s backpacks. In my practice, (HealthLink Chiropractic, Framingham, MA), I’m beginning to see more and more suffering children.

    In May 2002, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported backpack related injuries sent almost 6000 students each year to emergency rooms. The American Academy of Orthopedics stated that backpack injury is a significant problem for children. These children are supposed to carry their backpacks full with all their books to school. Most students carry more than the 15 0f their body weight, which is the maximum weight recommended by The American Orthopedic Association.

    According to a study conducted at Simmons University, most students carry a backpack to school each day that is overstuffed and too heavy. An Auburn University study reported that nearly 700f children they surveyed suffered muscle soreness, 50% experienced back pain, 25% numbness and another 15% shoulder pain from carrying their backpacks. There is growing evidence that backpacks may threaten to spinal development.

    A study by the University of Michigan reports that up to 60% 0f children will experience back pain by the time they reach 18. National Public Radio reported that 65% 0f adolescents’ visits to doctors are for backpacks related injuries.

    Legislation was presented in May 2002 in California and New Jersey to require school boards to manage school backpack weight. This legislation should be extended to the rest of the country.

    Some have suggested rolling backpacks. Rolling backpacks might seem like a good idea to help our children as long as they do it and do it right, but they do not. Many children carry these rolling backpacks in one hand when they are in a hurry or when they are going up and down stairs. Eventually they end up adding to the problem.

    Is your child’s backpack causing problems?

    -> Do your children complain that their fingers tingle?

    -> Do they ever say that their shoulders or back are bothering them?

    -> Do they have neck discomfort?

    -> Is your child’s back and neck tired at the end of the day?

    These are the signs of backpack injuries. Backpack injuries are real. Backpack injuries mimic repetitive stress injuries that adult experience on the job. There is only so much the human body can take before it starts to send out warning signals. Backpack injuries may include neck pain, upper back pain, mid and lower back pain, shoulder pain, arm to fingers numbness and tingling and headaches.

    If you or a family member has experienced any of these symptoms you should be evaluated by a chiropractic Physician. Because this is a new phenomena in our society we do not know the long term effects of backpack induced injury. Similar effects from other repetitive stress injuries have been documented resulting in longer recovery and healing and in worse case scenarios chronic lifelong struggle with pain management.

    Dr. Kayed S. Khalil is a Chiropractic Physician, he can be reached at HEALTHLINK CHIROPRACTIC, 639 Concord Street, Framingham, MA 01702, Telephone: (508)628-3800

  • Helping Your Feet Help You

    Advice From the Framingham Board of Health

    Contributed by Jim Gordon

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – Good foot care is important for all – the young and the elderly, those in good health and those with medical issues. By following a few simple steps, one can give much extra protection to foot care. We recently spoke to Dr. Brian Wascavage who is a graduate of Temple University and a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and has a Podiatry practice on Lincoln Street in Framingham.

    Dr. Wascavage says, “It is most important to fit feet to shoes, rather than fit shoes to feet. For example a wide foot put into a narrow shoe can cause problems such as ingrown toenails and blisters, and corns. Specialty shoe stores with experienced employees usually do a better job in fitting the customer with the appropriate shoe”.

    In some cases Wascavage advises using orthotics, which is a customized insert based on the shape of the individual’s foot which fits inside the shoes and may help in improving support for those with flat feet or major problems with bunions or heel spurs. In a comment which should be a delight to school children Wascavage says ” Sneakers are generally better for the feet than dress shoes as they have a larger base and better support for both sports and general walking. Young children have bones in their feet which are much softer than adults and changes in their feet can occur relatively quickly. Sneakers help provide the feet with good support”, Wascavage added.

    For winter shoe support Wascavage recommends a rubber sole which gives more traction than leather shoes. He also said, “One should not cram his feet into boots, as the boot should fit properly. Winter boots can cause feet to sweat and this could possibly lead to Athletes Foot”.

    Athlete’s Foot which is a fungus caused from sweaty feet, can usually be controlled by powdering the feet, keeping the feet clean and dry and changing socks regularly. Many diabetics have complications with their feet and toenails, including neuropathy (which is numbness in the feet) and circulation problems in the feet. Diabetics should check their feet daily for any cuts, bruises, athletes foot and ingrown toenails . Wascavage recommends diabetics change their socks and shoes once or twice a day to lessen the pressure on the feet. Diabetics should regularly discuss with their personal physician a regular preventative program in order to help provide good foot care. Wascavage says “Walking helps to strengthen muscles”.

    For exercise walking is not only great for cardiovascular health but it helps keep the feet in shape. Stretching before exercise is very important as if one does not stretch he may be more likely to receive an injury. Wascavage has some reservations about treadmill use as he says treadmills are hard on the feet. The Doctor said “Treadmills should not be used on an incline level”.

    He recommends taking short strides. Of course each individual should discuss his exercise program and foot care situation with his own physician and podiatrist. Keep your feet in good shape. See you on the track!

    (Jim Gordon is chairman of the Board of Health in Framingham)

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  • Local Resident in Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – Irene Dunne of Framingham will spend a weekend walking to help eradicate breast cancer by participating in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Boston on May 15-16, 2004. The Avon Walk Boston is one of six events in a series of weekend fundraising walks taking place from May to October next year to help raise awareness and funds for access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer.

    The Avon Walks are non-competitive and structured for walkers of various fitness levels with a choice of completing a marathon walk (26.2 miles) or a marathon and a half (39.1 miles) over the Saturday and Sunday.

    All women are at risk for breast cancer. In 2003, the American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that approximately 211,300 women in the U.S. were diagnosed with breast cancer and about 39,800 deaths were attributed to the disease. Breast cancer also occurs in men and this year an estimated 1,300 new cases will be diagnosed. Because there is no known cure for breast cancer, awareness, education and early detection are our best defenses against the disease. According to the ACS, there is a 97urvival rate when breast cancer is caught early, before it spreads to other parts of the body.

    These facts are just one reason Dunne, is taking on this personal challenge. Dunne believes people want to help others but don’t necessarily know how. It was sometimes the help extended to her from strangers when she was ill that touched her most and made a long lasting impact. These were people who helped just because they were in a position to do so and not because they were being paid for the service. Dunne still fights her own battle with chronic hypothyroidism and still has a lot of medical issues to overcome. Exercise is very important to her. Dunne is desperately trying to improve her health and this walk will be a great challenge to her. Dunne says; If, my efforts in fundraising brings one person with breast cancer to an earlier diagnosis it will be well worth the trouble. Over the next couple of months Dunne is trying to concentrate on her training as well as the fundraising efforts.

    Dunne, like everyone walking in the event, is required to raise a minimum of $1,800 to participate, but she’s aiming higher, with a personal goal of $5,000. She hopes the Metro West residents will share their goodwill towards her efforts. Funds donated to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer are managed and disbursed by the Avon Foundation, an accredited 501(c)(3) public charity, with funds awarded for breast cancer awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; treatment; support services; and scientific research. Beneficiaries range from leading cancer centers to community-based non-profit breast health programs in the vicinities of each Avon Walk event and nationwide.

    To help Dunne reach her fundraising goal, you may Donate Online at www.AvonWalk.org

    Or, you can send a check made payable to the “Avon Walk for Breast Cancer” to Dunne at: 181 School Street, Framingham, MA 01701.

    Borders Books have very kindly agreed to help Irene Dunne in her fundraising efforts for The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Boston. Only purchases made at Borders Books Music and Café on Route 9, west bound lane, next to Ken’s Steak House on the weekend of Feb 20, 21, 22 2004 and using this form will qualify.

    Borders will contribute 15% of the pre-tax purchase price to The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

    ABOUT THE AVON WALKS

    Avon Walk walkers begin their trek very early on a Saturday morning after an inspiring and motivating opening ceremony. The walkers have a choice of walking either 13.1 or 26.2 miles (half or full marathon distances) toward the Wellness Village, their home-away-from-home for the night, where they can take a hot shower, enjoy a hot meal, take a yoga class, get to know their fellow walkers and receive information on breast cancer. All the essentials are provided for the participants, including two-person tents, massage therapy and comprehensive medical services.

    On Sunday, all walkers follow a 13.1-mile route back to the place they started for a celebratory ceremony with family, friends, supporters and the general public. A dedicated all-volunteer crew of several hundred people supports the walkers and event throughout the entire weekend.

    The public is invited to cheer along the route and join at closing ceremonies. Visit www.AvonWalk.org closer to the event date for more details.

    Avon Walk for Breast Cancer 2004 Scheduled Events (listed chronologically): Washington, D.C., May 1-2; Boston, MA, May 15-16; Chicago, IL, June 5-6; San Francisco, CA, July 10-11; Los Angeles, CA, September 11-12; and, New York, NY, October 2-3.

    To register to walk or join the crew, or to pledge financial support for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, visit www.AvonWalk.org or call 1-877-WALK AVON for more information. To learn more about the Avon Foundation, visit www.avonfoundation.org.

    Avon Walk for Breast Cancer proudly recognizes returning national sponsors Health magazine and RYKÄ, footwear for women, as well as Official Water sponsor FIJI Water and new Official Airline sponsor United Airlines.

    The Avon Walk series is a project of the Avon Foundation and builds on the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade’s commitment of more than a decade to raising funds and awareness for the breast cancer cause.

    ABOUT THE AVON FOUNDATION

    The Avon Foundation was founded in 1955 with a mission to improve the lives of women by supporting programs that offer economic opportunity, and provide care and research for breast cancer in the U.S. and around the world.

    The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade began in the U.K. in 1992, and has expanded to 50 countries. Funds are raised through a wide variety of special events, product sales, walks, runs, concerts and other initiatives worldwide. The focus is on reaching the medically underserved population, including minorities, the poor, elderly, under- and uninsured, with a mission to fund access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer. In just over 10 years, the Avon Crusade has returned more than $250,000,000 net to breast cancer research and care organizations worldwide.

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  • Bike Ride Raises $50,000 for Diabetes

    PHOTO - Framingham Police motorcycle escort Diabetes fund-raising bike ride, 1997
    A Framingham Police motorcycle escort lead riders up Central Street on the last leg of a 7-day, 550+ mile Diabetes fund-raising bike ride.

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – The New England Classic is a fund-raising bike ride which left Framingham on July 12, 1997 for a week-long trek accross the New England states, (MA, ME, NH, and VT). The group rode an average of 80 miles per day, spending most nights on college campuses along the route.

    A total of about 60 riders made the trip, along with a dozen volunteers including EMTs, mechanics, and average people interested in helping to support efforts to find a cure for diabetes. Volunteers also supplied and drove five vehicles to carry gear and watch out for the rider’s safety.

    The riders pedaled from the starting point in Framingham (MA) to Durham (NH) then on to Gorham (ME), and Bretton Woods (NH), through Montpelier (VT), Killington (VT), Ringe (NH) then returned to Framingham (MA) for a total of approximately 550 miles!

    PHOTO 2 - Riders return to Framingham, American Diabetes Association's New England Classic, 1997
    Riders return to Framingham on the last stage of the American Diabetes Association's (Mass Affiliate) New England Classic.

    Along with the ordinary touring style bikes, one rider, Bill Goodwin made the entire ride on a recumbent bike, (the type you sit back in and the pedals are in the front of the bike). Goodwin not only covered the 550 miles on this bike, but added to the trip logging a total of 673 miles.

    Congratulations and thanks should be given to all who rode or volunteered to help —- pledges and sponsorship of the The New England Bike Classic raised approximately $50,000 which will go to the ADA to help find a cure for Diabetes.