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One thin wafer: Weight loss medication

By Karen L. Kier
Pharmacist on behalf of the ONU Healthwise Team 

In Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life, there is a scene where Mr. Creosote explodes after eating too much food and being offered one thin wafer. The movie was released in 1983 after success with their other movies. 

The British comedy troupe formed in 1969 and started a comedy series on the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The Monty Python’s Flying Circus was viewed from 1969 to 1974. The group’s comedy style was considered revolutionary. In 1988, the group won a BAFTA for their influence on comedy.

After holiday meals, one might express a feeling of fullness. We are entering the time of year when individuals are considering weight loss and thinking about New Year resolutions. 

Weekend Doctor: Heel pain

By Thomas Vail, DPM
Podiatry, Medical Staff Member of Blanchard Valley Health System

Heel pain is the most common foot condition that brings patients to my office. Heel pain is caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, multiple muscles, the bursa, nerves and the periosteum under the heel.

For most people, heel pain is at its worst in the morning. While you are sleeping, your feet rest in a downward, relaxed position, causing your muscles to tighten. When you take your first steps out of bed, stretching these tight muscles can cause pain.

Weekend Doctor: Taking care with fall yardwork

By Misty Watkins, LPN
Primary Care Manager, Blanchard Valley Medical Practices

As the trees are in their final stages of losing their leaves, the temperatures begin to drop, and the winds begin to pick up, many homeowners start feeling the pressure of getting their fall yard cleaning done before winter sets in. 

Healthwise: Turkey Lurkey Time

By Brendan Sheridan, Student Pharmacist
and Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist on behalf of the ONU Healthwise Team

Turkey Lurkey Time was a song and dance routine from the Broadway musical Promises, Promises: The Musical Comedy. The 1968 production was based on a book by Neil Simon with the music by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Turkey Lurkey Time was featured on the 1969 Tony Awards and season four of the Fox TV hit Glee. 

Weekend Doctor: Treatment for spinal stenosis

By Heather Auxier, APRN-CNP
Certified Nurse Practitioner, Blanchard Valley Pain Management

Spinal stenosis is a debilitating condition characterized by narrowing of the spinal canal or neural foramen that can lead to compression of the spinal cord and nerves. There are various treatment options to help this condition.  

Conservative therapies include physical therapy, activity modification, and exercise. These treatment options help to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and enhance posture to alleviate pain symptoms.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Tylenol or ibuprofen can offer temporary relief by reducing pain and inflammation. Long term medications should be carefully monitored due to potential side effects.

The Hospital Council of Northwest OH schedules public planning meetings, Nov. 16 and Dec. 8

The first of multiple Community Health Improvement Planning meetings will be virtually at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

The Kenton-Hardin Health Dept. and community partners with the assistance of The Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio will meet to develop a new Community Health Improvement Plan.

If you are interested in attending, email Katy Flinn at [email protected] to RSVP and receive the virtual meeting link.

The second planning meeting is on Friday, Dec. 8 from 11:30 a.m-2:30 p.m. 

Typically every 3-5 years the Hospital Council of Northwest OH meets with members of the county to create a new Community Health Improvement Plan.

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