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July 2005 Monthly Health Topic
Summer-time Health and Wellness
Daniel A. Gutstein, M.D. Family Practice Physician Weiss Memorial Hospital Phone: (773) 564-5355/(773) 478-2020
Summer is here, and after a long winter it is time to get outside and play. But before you do, here are a few health tips to keep in mind this summer.
First of all, keep in mind the last time you worked out or played regularly. If you are thinking in terms of years instead of months, or better still, weeks, please start slow. Many injuries occur when we push beyond our limits. The time to push your limits is under the supervision of a qualified trainer. In the meantime, remember to warm up before you work out. Stretching can be a form of warming up, but remember that stretching cold muscles can also cause injury. If you have a prior injury or suffer from any joint problems such as arthritis, the Weiss Memorial Hospital Department of Physical Therapy may be able to help you.
Next, remember safety. For example, when riding a bicycle, wear a helmet. Most bicycling accidents do not occur between a bike and a car. Most accidents are the result of a bicycle alone running into trouble on a path or trail. Safety equipment, like elbow and knee pads for rollerblading, can help minimize injury in case of a fall. If you do run into trouble while out enjoying the lakefront, you can be confident in the service you will receive in the Weiss Memorial Hospital Emergency Department. If necessary, they will refer you to one of our world-class orthopedic surgeons.
Lastly, if it has been years since you last exercised regularly, it is worth seeing one of Weiss Memorial Hospital’s many primary care physicians, including one of our new Family Physicians. Our physicians see patients of all ages, and are capable of offering screening examinations, performing school, camp, or work physicals, or just looking after what ails you. So enjoy your summer now, but play it safe. Before you know it, it will be time to shovel the snow again.
Feel free to schedule an appointment with me or another family practice physician at Weiss to discuss your health concerns or questions. |
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