In the News
|
|---|
Travel Light
Don't Let a Heavy Backpack Weigh Down Your Child
Your star students may study
hard and love school. Still, they
should not to have to carry the
weight of the world on their
shoulders, so to speak.
Backpacks are useful tools.
When they're too heavy,
though, they can cause back
strain and injury. Children
should not carry more than 10
to 15 percent of their body
weight. Extra backpack
accoutrements that help are thick padded shoulder straps, extrapockets to distribute the weight, and straps on the side or bottom to compress the contents and hold them in place. Also make sure that your kids do not carry unnecessary items to school, such as video games or books they don't need.
Teach them to use both shoulder straps, as using only one can be
damaging to the back and to their posture.
Here are some other things to look for in a first-class backpack:
– Strong material for durability
– A U-shaped zipper that opens the whole cover
– Pockets for water bottles
– A reflective stripe on the back sodrivers will be able to spot your
kids when they walk in the dusk or dark.
Summer Safety
Take Precautions in the Sun and Water
Two of the best parts of summer are the long, bright days and the water activities. But if we are not careful, excessive sun exposure or a beach accident can quickly dampen the summer spirit. To ensure fun all season long, consider the following
recommendations:
Generously apply sunscreen when heading outside. Put it on about 20 minutes before going out so your skin can absorb it. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and provide protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Our eyes need protection as well, so make it a habit to wear sunglasses when you leave the house.
Another tip: If you are outside for any length of time, be sure to drink plenty of water. The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to avoid being outside for prolonged periods during this time.
Water Care
If your children are around water at a public pool or beach, an adult should always be watching. Kids also should know not to dive into an unfamiliar area. The water might be shallow or there may be rocks.
While boating or jet skiing, make sure that everyone, regardless of his or her swimming skill, wears a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Keep in mind that an adult-sized life jacket will not work for a child. Before heading out on a boat, tell someone on land. Check the weather report for unexpected conditions.
Once you know that you and your family will be safe outdoors, you can enjoy the season — worry-free.
Out of Joint?
Considering a Joint Replacement? Ask the Right Questions
During our lives we demand a lot of our joints. Whether it is vigorously exercising or performing repetitive workplace motions, these bone connectors experience a lot of wear and tear.
Knowing if it is time to replace a joint requires careful consideration. Some questions to ask yourself:
|
–Does my affected joint hurt one or more days per week?
–Does the pain interfere with my sleep?
–Is it painful to perform everyday activities?
–Are pain medications no longer working?
When the pain becomes too much to bear, you may want to consider joint replacement surgery. Inova Alexandria Hospital offers top-flight physicians and the latest technology for all replacements, be it a knee, shoulder, ankle or wrist. Many new treatments are less invasive. Talk to an Inova physician today if you are struggling with joint pain.
The Right Prescription
Take Care When Choosing Your Primary Care Doctor
Selecting a primary care doctor is an important decision. This doctor, who could specialize in family practice, internal medicine or general practice, plays a key role in the healthcare system. He or she will provide or coordinate all your healthcare needs. If you need tests or treatments that your primary care doctor can't provide, he or she will give you a referral.
Here are some ways to help you narrow your search:
| 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. |
Look for a doctor who is board- certified. Ask friends for referrals. If possible, choose a doctor who is convenient to your home or office and has convenient hours. Make sure he or she has a bedside manner that suits you. Communication is essential. Also, pay attention to the office environment. Employees should be courteous, organized and helpful. Check to see that the doctor accepts your insurance. |
|---|
Inova Teams Up with Washington Mystics
 |
|---|
Inova leaders join Mystics players and executives in unveiling the new 2011 Washington Mystics game jersey. |
Inova Health System and the Washington Mystics have teamed up to promote health and wellness in the Greater Washington metro area. Our shared dedication to positively impacting the health of our community and tackling challenges such as childhood obesity, women's health issues and preventative health will make a difference in the region. Together, we'll work to further strengthen access and education for preventative care and healthy lifestyles.
Get 'Fit' This Fall
Free Online Wellness Campaign Features Football Great Darrell Green
Join Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Washington Redskin Darrell Green and Inova Health System experts online for tips on healthy eating, exercise and wellness.
Inova Health System's "Fit for Fall" and "Fit for Winter" online wellness programs are free, and with more than 7,000 online members participating so far, we welcome you to join us! Log on today to learn more and get started!.
The Doctors Are In
New Primary Care Offices Now Open
Having problems getting in to see a doctor? Need to find one closer to you? Inova Internal Medicine – Mark Center, Inova Family Medicine – Springfield and Inova Internal Medicine – Old Town are now open and accepting new patients.
Inova Internal Medicine – Mark Center
1800 N. Beauregard St., Suite 100, Alexandria
703-933-8111
Nanako Broughton, MD
Internal Medicine
Mark Center
Z Chris, MD
Internal Medicine
Mark Center
Ray Shabti, MD
Internal Medicine
Mark Center
Inova Family Medicine – Springfield
6355 Walker Lane, Suite 500, Alexandria
703-797-6970
Daniele Nunez, MD
Family Medicine
Springfield
Inova Internal Medicine – Old Town
325 S. Washington St., Alexandria
703-683-7220
Alan Richey, MD
Internal Medicine
Old Town
