We survived another Polar Vortex in Chicago at the end of January and beginning of February with an additional 18 inches of snow. It got so bad two weeks ago, my wife and I took three children, and four grandchildren skiing in Vail for a week. While we were away, it warmed up and rained here; now it is very cold again. Saturday, we returned; this morning, I looked at my heating bill and I had to take a walk. Next came the drive to the office; and while listening to the radio, I was reminded of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer even though the high predicted for today is 15 degrees. The Walk takes place each Spring around the country; this year in Chicago, the Walk to raise research dollars is scheduled for May 31 to June 1. I realize that many of my Blog entries over the year are focused on competitive athletics and high intensity personal recreation. The walk for breast cancer research dollars though is not only a personal commitment but it is societal statement as well at its best. Start planning ahead if you want to take part and be involved.
Just as training for a marathon or triathlon, if you want to participate and finish, you have to prepare. A two-day walk is not a Sunday stroll in the park. You would do best to seek out a training group as a motivator. While the weather outside may be less than inviting, the earlier you start training, the better. Now is a great time to find a comfortable walking shoe. It is true that whither you wonder, there is nothing you can do about the weather; but, there is always the indoor mall on a cold, snowy or rainy day.
“Dr. Sheinkop, I would love to partake but my arthritis limits my activities”, a frequent excuse I experience with a new patient in my practice. As I have written many times, the symptoms of arthritis may be eliminated or diminished by weight reduction, strengthening, anti-inflammatory medications and appropriate bracing. Included among the anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals are the visco-supplementation “gels”. Assume if you will that you have followed my above prescription, tried the generic recommendations and, still have distance-limiting symptoms. There are several proprietary possibilities that fall under the category I call Cellular Orthopedics. The various possibilities for intervention start with Platelet Rich Plasma with a continuum to Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate derived Stem Cells. (To be continued.)
Many patients have told me to take a walk when I tell them Medicare or insurance does not cover cellular orthopedics. Now I am telling you to go take a hike with the assistance of stem cells