Health

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

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band released their song Fishin’ in the Dark on June 7, 1987 and it hit number one on the country charts both in the United States and Canada.  The American country rock band started in 1966 in Long Beach, California. Several artists covered the song written by Wendy Waldman and Jim Photogio. Kenny Chesney released a cover of the song with the title You and Me Go Fishing in the Dark. After Garth Brooks recorded his cover version in 2005, the number of downloads of the original song certified it as platinum.  

For those who know the lyrics, you realized the song is not really about fishing or even counting the stars at night.  It is too bad they were not fishing because the science about the benefits of fish in your diet is advancing.  

By Ankit Modh, MD
Radiation Oncology, The Armes Family Cancer Care Center

As a radiation oncologist with years of experience, I am thrilled to share the incredible strides we've made in the field of radiation therapy, particularly in minimizing the impact of what was once a dreaded side effect – radiation burns. The landscape of cancer treatment has evolved significantly, and one of the most notable improvements lies in our ability to deliver effective treatment with a focus on patients’ comfort and well-being. 

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

In 1981, Lindsey Buckingham released his first solo album with the single Trouble. Buckingham was the lead guitarist and co-lead vocalist for Fleetwood Mac. When he joined the group, he convinced them to bring Stevie Nicks into the group to sing vocals. Buckingham was known for his fingerpicking guitar style. Fleetwood Mac was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. 

By Ali Chohan, MD
Family Medicine, Putnam County Primary Care

Sports injuries can be a challenging setback for athletes, affecting not only their physical well-being but also their mental resilience. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a “weekend warrior,” understanding common sports injuries and knowing how to take care of them is crucial for a speedy recovery and long-term health.

One of the most prevalent sports injuries is the sprain. Sprains occur when ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones within a joint, are stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are particularly common, often resulting from sudden twists or awkward landings. Immediate treatment involves the R.I.C.E. method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Rest the injured area, apply ice to reduce swelling, use compression to support the injured area, and elevate it to minimize fluid accumulation.

By Cynthia Holland-Hall, MD, MPH
Adolescent Health, Nationwide Children’s Hospital*

As adolescents move into young adulthood, they take on increasing responsibility for managing their own health care. By teaching your teen the necessary skills over time, this new responsibility will feel less overwhelming, and your teen will be one step closer to “adulting.” Making a medical appointment is a skill that seems simple but can be intimidating, particularly to teens who are “phone call-phobic.”

Start by having your teen make a list of their healthcare providers, including doctors, mental health providers, therapists, dentists, and any others. Encourage or help your teen to add the names, addresses, phone numbers, and web addresses of all providers to their phone contacts so they can easily find them in the future.  

By Thomas Kindl, MD
Pain Management, Blanchard Valley Pain Management

Frequent knee pain affects approximately 25% of adults. While living an active lifestyle is one of the best things you can do for your joints, it can commonly result in injury. Common problems related to knee pain include sprained ligaments, meniscus tears, tendinitis, runner’s knee, bursitis, osteoarthritis, and excess weight. 

Common symptoms of knee pain include:

  • Pain when using the stairs
  • Swelling in one or more joints
  • Difficulty bearing weight on the knee
  • Recurring pain or tenderness
  • Inability to move a joint normally

Over 32 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, a form of “wear and tear” arthritis that is the leading cause of knee pain in individuals over the age of 50.

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