Doctors’ Day 2023

Thursday, March 30, 2023

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Family medicine resident rocketing toward dream job on ‘Space Coast’ The Wright Center’s soon-to-be graduate combines his passions for science and medicine in patient-care role at epicenter of nation’s aerospace industry. Scranton, Pa. (March 21, 2023) – Family physician Gary Oh ’23, M.D., routinely shoots for the stars, which perhaps explains why his next job will take him as close to the Final Frontier as you can get without boarding a spacecraft. Dr. Oh – a lifelong lover of math, martial arts, the hard sciences, and ice hockey’s Edmonton Oilers – will graduate in the fall from The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, where he is completing a three-year residency in family medicine. Then, he’s bound for Florida’s “Space Coast,” the area near Cape Canaveral known for its vast beaches and NASA’s booming blastoffs. Dr. Oh will live at the epicenter of the nation’s aeronautics and space exploration industry and work for one of America’s top-rated health care organizations, Parrish Healthcare. Based in Titusville, Parrish routinely wins accolades and awards for patient safety and other performance measures. Its Parrish Medical Center belongs to the prestigious Mayo Clinic Care Network. And of nearly 3,000 hospitals evaluated by The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in 2013, Parrish Medical Center placed in the top 6% and was ranked the nation’s No. 5 independent public hospital. Dr. Oh expects to join the highperforming organization on Oct. 14 as an attending family medicine physician. He likely will be located at Parrish Healthcare Center in Port St. John. The population of the Titusville area – home to Astronaut High School and Apollo Elementary – has risen in recent years thanks to a revived interest, and massive investment, in missions designed to carry people to the moon and Mars. Plus, some of the biggest players in

Family physician Gary Oh proudly wears a T-shirt with NASA’s insignia, hinting at the adventures that might await him as a health care practitioner near Cape Canaveral, Florida, and nearby communities where population growth is being fueled by a resurging aerospace industry.

the nascent space tourism industry are recruiting a high-tech workforce there to produce rocket engines and to safely suit up and send civilians on pricey sightseeing trips. “There’s now a great need in the community for family physicians,” says Dr. Oh. “That’s where I come in.” Dr. Oh is a self-described Britishborn, Canadian-raised, inventive, snowboard-riding dude from Edmonton who admits to being “humbled” and a bit awestruck by his latest career opportunity. After all, he will be part of an organization at the exciting forefront of science, technology, and medicine – and the continued convergence of all three. (Think artificial intelligence in the exam room.) He became enamored with Parrish Medical Center as soon as a Floridabased recruiter put the organization on his radar. “I had gone on six prior job interviews before Parrish Medical Center, so it wasn’t my first date,” he says. “But it was definitely my best date. It was love at first sight. After that, I was like, no, I’m not interested in anything else.” See ‘WRIGHT CENTER’ | 4

Doctors’ Day 2023

2 | Thursday, March 30, 2023

Times Leader

Well visits are an important part of child healthcare Expecting parents will soon discover that having a child sparks many changes in their lives. As infancy rolls into toddlerhood and beyond, there is usually one constant in the busy lives of new families: the pediatrician. Children visit their pediatricians at regular intervals, and these doctors are invaluable sources of support and care. Pediatricians provide well-child services throughout youngsters’ childhoods. Health checkups start from the day the baby is born and continue until a child reaches adulthood. JAMA Pediatrics says there are many benefits of well-child visits. One of the key aspects of these checkups is tracking a child’s growth and development, including physical, cognitive, emotional, and social progress. Another component of well-child visits is to prevent injury and illness. When parents come in for these visits, the staff will likely go over the appropriate safety protocol for that child’s age and milestone. This

may include car seat safety checks, preventing falls, choking hazards, and safety when entering school. Bright Futures/American Academy of Pediatrics developed a set of comprehensive health guidelines for well-child care, and many pediatricians follow these schedule and screening guidelines. Visits often start at one-month intervals,

and then increase by two- and threemonth durations until the child is two years old. After 2.5 years of age, annual visits become the norm. The reason that earlier visits occur so often is because early childhood is a period of rapid development. In addition, various vaccinations are recommended to protect children from communicable diseases. These

immunizations must be administered according to schedule to be most effective. Well-child visits are also opportunities for screening tests and physical examinations. Exams typically involve checking blood pressure, vision, hearing, and general blood tests and urinalysis. Many parents use checkups as an opportunity to ask questions about development and ensure that children are safe to participate in school sports and extracurricular activities as well. Parents can come equipped with questions to ask the doctor during well-child appointments to make the most of their visits. The AAP says well-child visits should begin from three to five days old. Therefore, expecting parents should find a pediatrician for their child as soon as possible to ensure that well-child visits can begin immediately after the child is born.

Important reasons to visit a primary care physician It is vital to make personal health a priority. Despite that widely accepted truth, far too often people delay trips to see their doctors. The coronavirus pandemic only compounded this issue. An April 2020 report from Modern Healthcare found roughly one in three Americans delayed medical care as they coped with the financial loss and stress caused by COVID-19. A report from CTV indicated Canadian cancer diagnoses were down 16 percent from 2018 to 2020 due to closed facilities or fear of getting COVID-19 from medical offices. Concerns about the pandemic are not the only reasons individuals may skip doctor visits. Some avoid going to the doctor due to fear of the unknown. Dr. Barbara Cox, a psychologist based in San Diego, told NBC News that it’s common to feel reticent and anxious about going to the doctor. Around 3 percent of the population actually suffers from

iatrophobia, the medical name for fear of doctors. Most just worry about getting bad news. A refresher course on the benefits of visiting a primary care doctor may compel millions to schedule appointments and get back on top of their overall health. • Chronic disease management: An individual with a chronic disease, such as kidney disease, diabetes or hypertension, should consult with a doctor about the ideal frequency of visits and to coordinate medication and testing with specialists. • Vaccines and shots: Primary care providers (PCPs) offer routine vaccinations and can ensure that individuals are up-to-date on the immunizations they need to stay safe. Tetanus, diphtheria, shingles, pertussis, flu, and now COVID-19 vaccines are vital to overall health. • Medical referrals: A PCP can assess a health situation and refer a patient to the correct specialist

if more extensive care is needed. However, many chronic conditions can be monitored and addressed by a PCP. • Cancer screenings: UW Medicine, which specializes in patient care, research and physician training in Seattle, says most people will need a few cancer screenings as they age, including colonoscopies, Pap smears, mammograms, and other important diagnostic tests for cancer. PCPs are usually the first line of defense against cancer and can ensure patients receive the screenings they need. • Non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries: Unless a situation is life-threatening or severe, thereby warranting a trip to the emergency room, most people can visit their PCPs for help treating a variety

of conditions. When in doubt, individuals should first consult with their general practitioners about the right course of treatment. • Routine lab work: Blood and urine tests often are part of annual well visit checks. Many PCP offices have phlebotomists on staff so that lab work can be conducted in the convenience of one place and then sent out for testing. • Work or sports physicals: Certain employers require physical examinations, as do schools and recreational sports leagues. PCP offices are the place to go for these types of examinations, which are generally recommended annually. Primary care physicians are often the first people to turn to for a bevy of health and wellness needs.

Dr. Mary Ellen Marranca

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Did you know? Health screenings are a vital component of preventative health care. Specific screenings for older adults can help them stay healthy. Healthline and WebMD recommend older adults schedule these routine tests. The frequency of the screenings may depend on individuals’ health histories, so each test should be discussed with a physician during adults’ annual checkups. • Blood pressure check • Blood test to check cholesterol and triglyceride levels • Colorectal cancer exam starting at age 50 • Weight screening to check for gains or losses • Prostate cancer screening for men age 70 and older • Breast exam and mammogram for women, starting at age 40 • Pap smear and HPV tests at the recommended intervals advised by a doctor • Hearing test • Osteoporosis test • Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines • Eye exam • Periodontal exam once per year

• Auto, work and sports injuries • Back and neck pain • Arm and leg pain • Sciatic and scoliosis • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Muscle spasms • Migraine headaches • Arthritis • Sinusitis • Stress • Sleeplessness • Fatigue • Plantar Fasciitis • Neuropathy We dont rush our patients -We let them relax,

dr. mary ellen marranca 1137 Wyoming Ave, Exeter • 570-654-5152

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Doctors’ Day 2023

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Thursday, March 30, 2023 | 3

Simple steps to help avoid colon cancer Doctor offers reminders during colon cancer awareness month By Nilesh Patel, MD Cancer care specialist, Geisinger

Are you due for a colonoscopy? It’s not the most pleasant procedure, but it might be one of the most important — especially if you have a family history of colon cancer. Colon and rectal cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, affects both men and women, and all racial and ethnic groups. Often, there are no warning signs or symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage, which is why routine screenings are so important. If you’re at average risk for developing the disease, the American Cancer Society recommends having your first colonoscopy at age 45, with re-screening every 10 years (or more frequently depending on your results). If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, your screenings should begin at a younger age and occur more frequently. Colorectal cancer often begins as abnormal cells called polyps. These growths are noncancerous at first but can develop into colorectal cancer in 10 to 15 years — or in some cases sooner depending on how aggressive they are. If found, polyps can be removed quickly during the colonoscopy procedure, and that’s far preferable to any cancer treatment that might otherwise have been needed down the road. Eating a healthy diet can help

prevent colorectal cancer. In fact, recent studies have shown a link between ultra-processed foods and colon cancer — especially in men. These foods contain artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners and preservatives and eliminating them from your diet is a great step toward better health. Foods to avoid include: • Frozen, microwave-ready meals • Cold cuts • Soda • Prepackaged snacks and sweets A diet made up of fruits, vegetables, calcium, lean meats and foods that are high in fiber will help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and help with weight management. Replace sugary beverages like soda and energy drinks with water, make sure you get enough sleep and engage in moderate to vigorous activity daily — and do I even have to mention alcohol and smoking? Drinking excessively and long-term smoking can not only cause colorectal cancer, but several other cancers as well. Quitting smoking, even if you smoked frequently in the past, is a huge step toward prevention. Following these simple steps will help you take charge of your health. And if you’re due for a colonoscopy, I urge you to schedule one soon — I really cannot overstress the importance of early detection. Nilesh Patel, MD

River Street Dentistry River Street Dentistry was established by Dr. Renee Edwards in 1993, and was excited to welcome Dr. Casey Silvi to the practice. River Street Dentistry is dedicated to your complete oral health and creating your perfect smile. Our team prides itself in giving our patients the highest quality of care, listening to your needs and providing care in a comfortable setting. Our office offers

163 River St., Plains, PA 570.822.3040 | www.riverstreetdentistry163.com

single visit crown placement for most cases, cosmetic restorative materials that are kind to your dentition, Reveal clear orthodontic treatment, and Glo Science Whitening to enhance the health of your smile. Dr. Edwards has over 25 years of experience, graduating from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. She is passionate about providing quality dental care

Our doctors are

to her patients. Dr. Edwards lives in Jenkins Township with her husband, two daughters and two golden retrievers. Dr. Silvi strives to ensure her patients receive excellent care under her supervision. She provides all her patients’ dental needs with stateof-the-art technology, materials, and sterilization techniques with a personal touch. Dr. Silvi is a lifelong

resident of Plains, graduating with honors from Coughlin High School, Kings College, and Temple University Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry. We are excited to have our growing practice welcome new patients. Please visit our website www. riverstreetdentistry163.com and phone to make an appointment @ 570-822-3040.

the lifeline of our community.

Happy Doctors’ Day to our physicians. Denoting love, charity, sacrifice, bravery and courage, the red carnation is the official symbol of Doctors’ Day. Thank you for all you do for LVHN and our community.

Doctors’ Day 2023

4 | Thursday, March 30, 2023

Times Leader

WRIGHT CENTER from 1 Apparently, the feeling was mutual. Dr. Oh finished his interview at Parrish Medical Center and departed Florida Sunday morning. By the next day, he received a job offer and a contract to sign, he says. Dr. Oh’s compelling resumé helped to propel him to the top of the contender’s list. His career path is punctuated by degrees from two medical schools, participation in multiple residency programs (including a psychiatry residency), co-creation of a self-defense program, and a stint leading a startup seaweed harvesting operation. He also credits The Wright Center’s training experience and guiding philosophy for helping to propel him on his career journey. He delivered care in primary care clinics and area hospitals amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, developing his skills as a compassionate, patientcentered physician. And he was able to pursue his research and publishing interests. For example, he served as principal investigator on a research project that involved fellow Wright Center residents and focused on eliminating the occurrence of “text neck,” a musculoskeletal problem caused by the constant use of laptops, cellphones, and similar devices.

Dr. Eric Samonte, M.D., program director of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Regional Family Medicine Residency, describes Dr. Oh as “very keen on what his peers’ needs are” and “quite driven and motivated to do the best he can for his patients.” “Gary has been a resident in other programs in Canada, and he also is a successful entrepreneur. The Wright Center became a sort of forge where his experiences and abilities were honed to their fullest potential,” says Dr. Samonte. “His next career step will be a very nice fit for his experience and personality – as he likes being at the forefront of medicine and technology.” The full scope of Dr. Oh’s wideranging interests and life experiences, including the rationale behind his Wright Center research project, came flooding out during his job interview at Parrish Medical Center. “Our conversation went into physics, chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, neurosciences, diffusion tensor imaging of the brain (which I’d published on), the mind-body connection …,” he says. “We covered a lot of ground!” Dr. Oh’s seemingly eclectic job

A frequent face at Crunch Fitness in downtown Scranton, Gary Oh, M.D., maintains his body and mind through regular workouts. He was attracted to The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, in part, because of the organization’s budding focus on Lifestyle Medicine, which aligns with his own longtime interests in exercise, healthy eating, and other strategies to achieve and maintain wellness.

Former Canada resident Gary Oh, M.D., is a longtime practitioner of mixed martial arts and goes to great lengths today to maintain his flexibility and overall fitness. During a hiatus from medicine years ago, he offered self-defense lessons to crime victims in tandem with members of the Edmonton Police Services.

history is actually a succession of thought-out activities linked by a common thread: A deeply held desire to make society better – both for those who are here now and for the next generation.

‘Drawn toward health care’

Dr. Oh arrived in Canada at age 3. The family had relocated from Great Britain because his father, a civil engineer, worked in the energy industry and landed near the fuelproducing oil sands. His mother was a registered nurse. She had frank talks with him as a young child about her daily work, even when it involved matters of life and death. He knew by the time he was about 6 years old that he wanted to be a physician. “At a very young age,” he says, “I felt drawn toward health care because it resonated with my spirit.” His desire to join the healing profession only intensified in high school, where he excelled in the classroom. “Mathematics, physics, chemistry, force, light – these things just all made sense to me,” he says. Dr. Oh earned his first medical degree in 2001 at the University of Alberta. He entered residencies in psychiatry before ultimately finding his niche in family medicine. “For me, family medicine is perfect,” he says. The discipline gives him the ability to form trusting relationships with patients over time and to promote whole-person care throughout their lifespan. “Family medicine allows me to keep my knowledge sharp in every single component of medicine: The mind, the body, everything.”

By 2008, however, Dr. Oh needed to take a break from the rigors of patient care. He and a then-girlfriend in the prior year had a child, with whom Dr. Oh remains in contact today through an open adoption agreement. The young physician realized he needed to prioritize his personal life and appropriately deal with long pent-up emotions. “I intended to return to medicine,” he says, “but I needed time.”

Endeavors that serve community

During his hiatus from medicine, Dr. Oh and a childhood pal, who worked in the Edmonton Police Service, developed and promoted a form of self-defense training that they called the Hard Target program. Although Dr. Oh is no longer involved in its hands-on training, he remains active as an external consultant. He also published a patent, which “took on a life of its own,” he says. The patent involves a technique for harvesting red seaweed that had long been considered a nuisance around Vancouver Island. The nonindigenous plant washes onto coastal beaches each winter, collecting into putrid piles as it rots and releases methane gas. Turns out, the plant contains carrageenan, a natural ingredient used as a thickening agent in products ranging from certain shampoos and toothpastes to milk. Dr. Oh entertained several offers from suitors interested in the dried seaweed business. Ultimately, he chose Beaver Meadow Farms, an SPCA-certified organic cow farm, and says he committed to spending one See ‘WRIGHT CENTER’ | 5

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Doctors’ Day 2023

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WRIGHT CENTER from 4 year with the company to help get and keep the beach harvesting operation going. “We’re taking trash and turning it into treasure,” says Dr. Oh, who retains a partial ownership stake in the operation. However, he made one thing clear to his business partners from the start: He was going to return to medicine. Dr. Oh decided to repeat medical school, graduating in 2019 from the Saint James School of Medicine, knowing it would update his knowledge base and expand his opportunities. He approaches all of his chosen pursuits – from medicine to mixed martial arts, to dirt bike riding, to personal fitness – with focus and high energy. Dr. Oh is a teacher of sorts, quick to share what he’s learned with others. As he talks about seaweed, or a new artificial intelligence tool for physicians called Nuance DAX, or dozens of other interest areas, his enthusiasm will sometimes show in his sweeping arm and hand gestures, which flow in a smooth and controlled manner, and in his quick, rising laugh. In those moments, Dr. Oh gives the impression there are forces within him that simply cannot be contained for much longer – like a rocket, rumbling and ready to soar.

“The public and our patients in Northeast Pennsylvania might not realize it,” he explains, “but The Wright Center has taken the brightest minds from around the world and put them to work for you right here.” Dr. Oh looks forward to gaining additional talented colleagues and mentors upon his arrival on the Space Coast, where even the telephone area code (3, 2, 1 …) hints of something spectacular about to take flight. In particular, he speaks reverently about the possibility of learning from, or collaborating with, military physicians. “To me, working at Parrish, where some of these people are heroes, it’s an honor,” he says. Then, as Dr. Oh’s enthusiasm and his Edmonton upbringing kick in, he adds: “It’s like if you play hockey, you start out on the bench, but now I’m moving up toward the first line. “I just hope I don’t turn over the puck!” Learn more about The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, and its residency and fellowship programs, by visiting TheWrightCenter.org.

The Wright stuff?

The seasoned physician arrived at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education in 2020, eager to gain further experience in the U.S. medical system. He was drawn to The Wright Center for multiple reasons, including the enterprise’s budding focus on Lifestyle Medicine, which aligns with his own interest in the mind-body connection, and its range of fellowship programs. As an immigrant to Canada, Dr. Oh also appreciates that The Wright Center offers opportunities to physicians from the United States and abroad who compete for the limited number of available slots in U.S. residency programs. “I’m surrounded by the brightest from around the world,” he says.

Research project aims to spare colleagues from neck pain Scranton, Pa. (March 21, 2023) – Gary Oh, M.D., ’23, became concerned when he saw a room filled with his fellow resident physicians and noticed many resembled “wilted flowers,” their backs bent and heads bowed as they peered down into their laptop computer screens. This body posture, which is common today among users of laptops, cellphones, and other mobile devices, has been blamed for an increasing incidence of “text neck” syndrome. Text neck is a painful condition that can result when adults, or even teens and children, spend too many hours leaning over screens, repetitively straining tendons in their neck vertebrae. The misalignment can, over time, cause changes to structures of the neck, including the formation of occipital exostoses, or bone spurs. Sufferers of text neck typically report symptoms such as discomfort in the neck, upper back, or even lower back, headaches, and reduced head motion. Some people might eventually require surgery. Previously, degenerative neck troubles of this type were most commonly associated with older adults who, after a lifetime of craning, hunching, and scrunching, began to feel the ill effects. “Now they’re finding it in folks who are under 30 years old,” Dr. Oh says. Dr. Oh decided to make text neck prevention the focus of his multiyear Community-Oriented Primary Care (COPC) research project, which is a requirement for physicians training in The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s residency programs. His longtime interest in activities such as jujitsu and wrestling had influenced his understanding of the need to maintain a strong neck and prevent gradual damage. He devised a study involving about 40 first-year medical residents. Half of the study’s participants were provided with

Given his keen interest in the human body and the convergence of medicine, science, and technology, Gary Oh, M.D., seems perfectly suited to further his career on Florida’s ‘Space Coast.’ He enjoys pondering big questions, such as how to keep the body strong during a round trip to Mars over two to three years. ‘I have some ideas,’ he says, smiling.

Through their compassionate care and dedication to our mission, our physicians are improving the health and welfare of communities throughout Northeast Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit:

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Thursday, March 30, 2023 | 5

laptop stands, which elevate the devices so users can look straight ahead rather than at a downward angle. As principal investigator for this randomized controlled trial, Dr. Oh chose to include only incoming residents because they had not yet undergone the rigors of a residency program, with its demanding patient care and training schedule, and omnipresent use of electronic health records. Each participant was asked to complete a baseline survey in which they self-evaluated neck discomfort and pain. The survey was repeated at three-month intervals over the next six months. It’s too soon for Dr. Oh to make any grand pronouncements about the study’s results. However, his preliminary findings hint that taller individuals, those over 5 feet 10 inches, may benefit the most from the use of laptop stands. And no matter their height, every participant who was supplied with a laptop stand with remote USB mouse/ keyboard reported to have benefited to some degree, he says. In April, he delivered a poster presentation about the laptop study at the Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians’ Research Day and at the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association’s annual convention in Scottsdale, Arizona. He also co-authored the paper, “Computer Ergonomics to Reduce Musculoskeletal Strain/Pain, Fatigue and Injuries.” Dr. Oh designed the small study so that it can be easily replicated, involving more participants and perhaps allowing for future meta-analysis. “If we can actually get good, authoritative data about the use of laptop stands as a preventive measure for text neck … who knows,” says Dr. Oh. “It would be great if something like this could actually help workers all around the world.”

Doctors’ Day 2023

6 | Thursday, March 30, 2023

Colon and rectal cancers are on the rise in young adults

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You may need a colonoscopy earlier than you think By Dr. Duane Deivert Director of gastroenterology, Wilkes-Barre Geisinger

to 45. The best thing to do is talk to your doctor to see if an earlier screening is right for you. About 90 percent of people The good news: when caught early, diagnosed are age 50 and older, so colorectal cancer is very treatable. it may be hard to believe that cases What are symptoms of colon and of colorectal cancer are on the rise rectal cancer? among young and middle-aged adults Many symptoms of colorectal – but they are, and at an alarming cancer can also be caused by rate. conditions that aren’t cancer. According to a study conducted by However, if you have any of these American Cancer Society researchers, symptoms, you should see your cases of colon and rectal cancer doctor to find the cause: have been increasing by one to two • A change in your bowel habits, percent each year among adults ages including diarrhea, constipation, a 20 to 39. This increase is alarming change in the consistency of your to researchers because cases had stool that lasts for more than a been decreasing in decades prior. few days Even more alarming, researchers say • Rectal bleeding or blood in your that adults younger than 55 are 58 stool percent more likely to be diagnosed • Persistent cramping, gas or with late-stage colorectal cancer than abdominal pain older people, mainly due to delayed • Feeling that your bowel doesn’t follow-up of symptoms because young empty completely • Unexplained weight loss people and their healthcare providers • Weakness or fatigue aren’t often thinking cancer. Without routine screening, Many people with colorectal cancer colorectal cancers are typically caught don’t experience symptoms until the in advanced stages when they’re late stages of the disease and that’s difficult to treat. The recommended why early detection and prevention age to begin routine screening is 50 are key. but if you have a family history of Dr. Duane Deivert colorectal cancer, you may need to How to prevent colon and rectal cancer • Eat your fruits and veggies. Be be screened sooner. Some guidelines Get screened. Most colorectal sure to include a variety of fruits, recommend screenings should start cancers start as an abnormal growth vegetables and whole grains. at age 45. Additionally, research on the inner lining of the colon These foods contain vitamins, indicates African Americans are or rectum, called a polyp. Regular minerals, fiber and antioxidants, diagnosed with colorectal cancer at screenings can help detect polyps, so which may play a role in a younger age and that colon cancer they can be removed before they turn preventing colorectal cancer. kills African Americans at a higher into cancer. There are several types of • Keep your alcohol consumption rate than any other race in America, screening tests for colorectal cancer, to a minimum. If you drink in part due to racial disparities including colonoscopy and at-home alcohol, keep it to no more than in healthcare. Therefore, it is screening tests. Make lifestyle one drink per day for women and recommended that African Americans changes to lower your risk. two for men. begin routine screening at 45. As with many cancers, making • Stop smoking. If you smoke, talk Because of the increasing incidence changes to your everyday life can to your doctor for options to help of colorectal cancer in young adults, make a big impact on lowering your you quit. the American Cancer Society has risk of colorectal cancer. Specialists • Move your body. Try to get advocated to lower the screening age suggest:

at least 30 minutes of light to moderate exercise in on most days. If you have any health issues, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. • Maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor about your weight. He or she can help determine what’s best for you.

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The important takeaway is that young people can and do get colorectal cancer. Talking to your doctor about your family history and potential symptoms could possibly save your life.

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Kingston | Mountain Top Pittston | Clarks Summit

Doctors’ Day 2023

Times Leader

Thursday, March 30, 2023 | 7

Don’t let joint pain keep you down and out Your guide to over-the-counter joint pain relief By Dr. Matthew McElroy, DO, Sports Medicine, Geisinger

steroids. These pain medications include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve) and aspirin. If No matter where you feel it, when you’re taking other medications, you have joint pain, you want quick consult your pharmacist before using relief. any OTC pain relievers. There are many ways to deal with If you don’t have swelling or chronic joint pain and discomfort, including rest, strengthening, exercise inflammation, acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with painful joints. and surgery. But over-the-counter Avoid drinking alcohol while taking (OTC) medications are among the acetaminophen, as it can cause liver most common treatments people damage. typically start with. But there are many options to Topical treatments choose from. Here’s where to start. Available in cream, spray, rub or gel forms, topical pain relievers are Why do my joints hurt? applied to the skin of the affected area Painful joints can be temporary to help reduce pain and swelling. or ongoing, and aching joints are Medications that are applied caused by many types of injuries or directly to the sore area can include conditions. People of all ages and counterirritants that contain menthol activity levels can have joint pain. or camphor, which counteract pain Your pain might be the result of: perceptions, which includes products • Overuse such as Icy Hot and Biofreeze. • Osteoarthritis, commonly called The key ingredients active include OA capsaicin and salicylates. • Rheumatoid arthritis Capsaicin is the chemical in chili • Excess weight peppers that give them their heat and • Worn cartilage interacts with your neurons to relieve • Tendon or ligament tear pain, while salicylates have the same •Other injuries effects of aspirin.

What about weight loss?

Mild to moderate weight loss can significantly reduce joint pain and slow the progression of arthritis, especially when combined with low impact and strengthening exercises for major muscle groups. Talk to your physician or fitness coach to find out which exercises are best for you.

OTC joint pain relief

Before you stock your medicine cabinet, here’s a rundown of the most widely used OTC treatments for aching joints.

OTC pain relievers

For swelling, the best solutions are general pain relievers that reduce inflammation and don’t contain

Hot or cold therapy

Hot and cold treatments can help decrease joint inflammation, pain and stiffness. Heat therapy includes dry heat (heating pads) and moist heat, like a hot bath or shower, and improves circulation and relaxes the muscles. Cold therapy, such as an ice pack or a cold compress, helps reduce swelling. In addition to traditional medication, heating wraps and pads can also be used to relieve joint pain and don’t have serious side effects.

Vitamins and supplements

Glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate are supplements that contain material found in the joints, which may assist with regeneration. Antioxidants,

Dr. Matthew McElroy

which are often found in supplements, can also help prevent and treat joint pain by reducing inflammation. Omega 3s are found in fish oil and regulate body functions that manage inflammation. Green tea is also a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

A lack of vitamin D can also lead to joint pain When treating your joint pain with traditional medication you

should also take advantage of natural remedies. Getting more sunlight — with sunscreen, of course — is one of the best ways to help yourself if you haven’t been getting out of the house enough. The type of pain you have will determine the treatment that’s most appropriate. Talk with your doctor before you start any new treatments and to understand how any medications you’re taking might interact.

Happy National Doctors' Day! The Meadows would like to thank our Medical Director,

DR. ALAN BOONIN, AND ALL OUR PHYSICIANS for their dedication to their profession and our residents.

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