Our patients mean the world to us, and many have trusted Dr. Smith for decades. Our team is always fully committed to making every visit comfortable, gentle, and pain-free. Our goal is to provide exceptional periodontal and implant care that has been the hallmark of Dr. Smith’s practice for many years.
You deserve the very best! Call today to secure your first visit on your journey to total health, wellness, and aging beautifully.
Live a Longer, Happier, and Healthier Life With a Virtual Physical
Submitted By Virtual Physical
Taking care of your health is one of the most important things you can do to lead a longer, healthier, and happier life. While regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial, there’s another approach to preventative medicine that’s gaining popularity: the virtual physical.
The virtual physical is a comprehensive diagnostic screening procedure that uses state-of-the-art technology to take a global look at your body and identify a variety of conditions at early stages where intervention can be most helpful. This includes heart scans, lung scans, virtual colonoscopies, and full-body scans.
By undergoing a virtual physical, you have the power to see your future and change it. The scan is easy, simple, and accurate, taking only about 10 minutes. It can help you catch potentially serious medical issues early on, when treatment is most successful.
The benefits of a virtual physical are numerous. For one, it can help you be your own health advocate. Rather than waiting for symptoms to appear, you can take a proactive approach to your health and catch issues before they become bigger problems. This can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Another benefit is the ability to personalize your health care. By
Please see “Virtual Physical,” page 55
Cannabis and Fibromyalgia
By Sharron Sample, CEO Dispensary Works
In a recent study, 62% of patients that have tried cannabis to treat their fibromyalgia said it was very effective. Thirty-three percent said it helped a little and only 5% said it gave them no relief at all. With no known cure for fibromalgia, cannabis is a valuable tool for many to manage its symptoms. There are hundreds of cannabis strains that offer pain relief and will improve your sleep. You may need to experiment to find the most effective strain for you. Patient care advisors at local
dispensaries should be able to guide you to products that have been shown to help others.
The FDA has only approved three drugs for the treatment of fibromyalgia – Cymbalta, Lyrica, and Savalla. But many who have tried these medications claim they either don’t help or add to their symptoms.
Fibromyalgia can be devastating and debilitating, making even the
Please see “Cannabis,” page 55
At the Minimally Invasive Vascular Center (also known as MIVC) we have long been committed to addressing the vascular devastation that is rampant in our community. Each year cardiovascular disease is the world’s largest killer; killing more Americans than cancer. If you have painful legs, wounds that won’t heal, varicose veins, leg swelling, history of smoking, or have a family history of vascular problems and/ or are over the age of 50, you may suffer from poor circulation. Poor circulation may be responsible for causing erectile dysfunction in as much as 50 to 70 percent of men who develop the condition. Now we are happy to add expanded services! Our goal is to extend the healthy lifespan of our patients by using a comprehensive, integrative approach to achieve the most effective results. We believe that Beauty Is a Reflection of Health and Wellness. We want you to be as beautiful on the outside as you are healthy on the inside.
17 | Fibromyalgia: How Do You Treat It? | By Alan Weiss, MD
17 | Chiropractic Treatment and Pain | By Alicia Kovach, DC
18 | When Pain Keeps Coming Back, Your Body May Be Asking For Something More | By Milca Kaplan, NP 19 | Forefoot Surgery | By Howard Horowitz, DPM
20 | Keeping Maryland Residents Connected | By Maryland Relay/Telecommunications
21 | Follow-up Visits After Bariatric Surgery | By Etwar McBean, MD, FACS
21 | Painful Sex: A Real Mid-Life Crisis | Submitted by New Day Vitality Hormone Center
22 | When Back Or Joint Pain Starts Interfering With Daily Life | By William Baca, DC 24 | More Time With the People You Love | By Kylie Taylor, Director of Access and Patient Experience 26-35 | Featured Pain Management & Rehab + Technology
38 | Chinese Medicine For Chronic Low Back Pain | By Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc
38 | Keeping Our Children Safe | By Janet V. Johnson, MD
42 | Managing Pain the Mindful Way | By Dr. Tiffany Daniel
46 | Essential Oils and Acupuncture | By Brittney de Vicq, MAc, LAc
46 | The Impact Of Mental Illness | By Joyce Abramson, RNMS
47 | Hammertoes: Pain Of the Small Toes| By Ademuyiwa Adetunji, DPM
47 | Are You In Pain? You Are Not Alone | Submitted By Kensington Pharmacy
48 | The Sleep–Pain Cycle | By Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists
50 | Pain and Hypnosis | By Toni Greene, Owner
50 | Gum Disease and Soft Tissue Management | Submitted by E. Taylor Meiser, DDS
53 | Do I Really Need Surgery For My Back Pain? | Submitted by All Star Pain Management
59 | Your Mouth Is Connected To Nearly Every System In the Body | By Gena Schultheis, DDS
and information about health professionals is available at www.YourHealthMagazine.net
Your Health Magazine is on a mission. There are far too many people, insured or not, who do not go to the doctor when they should, and in millions of cases, don’t know who they should go to, or why.
People are encouraged to buy a new house, car, cell phone or big screen TV, and those companies make themselves very visible and their products easily attainable.
Information about, and from, local healthcare providers is not easy to find, and many times those services are difficult to access.
Information and encouragement always lowers fear and trepidation about anything, and this is especially true in healthcare. While general information is available on web-sites, specific information from local providers is almost impossible for people to find. This is one of the key reasons chronic and episodic conditions are not cared for. It is our mission to:
Make A Difference By Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier By Going To the Doctor When They Should.
There is a lot of evidence that the health professionals who participate in Your Health Magazine have helped many people over the years. We at Your Health Magazine salute you!
G. Scott Hunter, Editor-in-Chief
If you would like to find out how you can participate in one of our upcoming editions, please contact the office nearest you.
MARYLAND & WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE One Town Center 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 102 Bowie, MD 20716 Office (301) 805-6805 • Fax (301) 805-6808 info@yourhealthmagazine.net
The content in Your Health Magazine and provided on yourhealthmagazine. net is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, making changes to your health routine, or acting on any health-related information found on the Internet, or anywhere else.
Gregory Scott Hunter
Focus On “Fit Feet,” Not “Skinny Feet”
By Mikel Daniels, DPM
We Treat Feet Podiatry and ankles!
Part 2
On the other end of the spectrum, excess weight can absolutely impact foot health. Higher body weight is associated with increased foot pain, greater pressure on the soles, and structural changes over time. Conditions like flat feet, tendonitis, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis become more common. There is also a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which can damage circulation and nerves in the feet, sometimes leading to non-healing wounds or even amputations. Swelling in the lower legs and feet is also more common, which can further limit mobility and make daily activities more uncomfortable.
But here is the key point: the patients who do best long-term are not simply the ones who lose weight. They are the ones who improve how their bodies function day to day. That is why I encourage people to focus on “fit feet,” not “skinny feet.”
Fitness is about performance, not appearance. For your feet, that means strong muscles to support the arch, good flexibility in the ankle and toes, healthy circulation to deliver oxygen and nutrients, and nerves that can properly detect pressure and pain. It also means having the endurance to stay active without pain limiting your daily life. You can be thin and struggle in all of these areas – or be in a larger body and perform well in many of them.
I see this every day. Some heavier patients walk thousands of steps daily, maintain excellent blood sugar control, and have strong, resilient feet. Meanwhile, some thin patients get winded
walking short distances and show clear signs of weakness in circulation and muscle support. There is also a psychological component. Many younger patients, especially women, focus more on how their legs and feet look than how they function. This mindset can lead to extreme dieting, poor nutrition, and overexercising in unsupportive shoes. Over time, this often results in chronic pain, overuse injuries, and delayed healing. Ignoring early symptoms in pursuit of weight loss can create long-term problems.
This becomes especially dangerous with conditions like diabetes. A common misconception is, “I’m thin, so I don’t have to worry about it.” In reality, thin individuals can still develop diabetes, poor circulation, and serious foot complications. Body size does not provide immunity.
When patients come into my office, I do not focus on clothing size. I evaluate circulation, nerve function, foot structure, gait, and daily habits. These factors provide a far more accurate picture of foot health.
So what should you do? Move regularly. Build strength. Eat enough protein and nutrients to support healing and bone health. Wear supportive shoes. Manage blood sugar if needed. Pay attention to early warning signs like persistent pain, numbness, or swelling. And if you have risk factors, schedule regular foot exams.
In the end, your feet tell the truth. They do not care about your size – they care about strength, stability, and how well your body supports them over time.
Is Your Foot Pain Silently Wrecking Your Health, Looks, and Lifestyle?
The truth about untreated foot issues – and how We Treat Feet can help you get back to living pain-free.
Every step you take should bring you forward – not closer to chronic pain, mobility loss, or costly surgery. At We Treat Feet Podiatry, we don’t just treat symptoms – we solve the problem at its root, using the latest techniques in foot and ankle care.
Whether you’re battling bunions, heel pain, diabetic wounds, or sports injuries, we help you walk, run, and move with confidence again.
Why Washingtonians Trusted Us:
• Expert care from board-certified foot & ankle specialists
• 12+ locations for your convenience
• Advanced diagnostics & same-day appointments available
• We’re the Official Podiatry Partner of the Baltimore Orioles
Understanding and Overcoming Urinary Incontinence
By Kari Bailey, MD Anne Arundel Urology
Urinary incontinence, a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide, poses significant challenges to those living with it. Defined as the involuntary leakage of urine, this condition can disrupt daily life, impacting social interactions, self-esteem, and overall well-being. As a urologist, it’s imperative to shed light on this condition, its causes, and the array of treat-
ments available to manage it effectively.
Types and Triggers
Urinary incontinence comes in various forms, each with its own triggers. Stress incontinence, often linked to weakened pelvic muscles, contrasts with urge incontinence’s sudden, strong bladder contractions. Mixed incontinence combines aspects of both, highlighting the complexity in diagnosis and management.
Getting To the Root: Diagnostic Journey Made Simple
To tackle urinary incontinence, understanding its root cause is key. Urologists employ straightforward diagnostic methods, including medical history discussions and basic physical exams, sometimes coupled with specialized tests like bladder function studies. This process helps uncover the underlying issues, guiding tailored treatment plans.
Lifestyle and Behavioral Shifts
Innovative Treatments
You don’t need drastic measures to make a difference. Simple lifestyle changes, like managing fluid intake and incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine, can significantly improve symptoms, especially in stress incontinence cases. Additionally, behavioral therapies like bladder training and scheduled voiding can help regain control and reduce urgency.
Medication Matters: Targeted Solutions For Enhanced Comfort
For individuals with more severe or persistent symptoms, pharmacotherapy may be recommended. Medications targeting overactive bladder muscles, such as anticholinergics or beta-3 adrenergic agonists, can help reduce urgency and frequency of urination. In some cases, hormone therapy or topical estrogen may be prescribed to strengthen pelvic tissues and alleviate symptoms, especially in postmenopausal women.
Minimally Invasive Solutions
For those seeking more advanced solutions, minimally invasive procedures offer hope. Techniques like sling placement, urethral bulking, Botox, or neuromodulation can provide lasting relief, with minimal disruption to daily life. These options can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
Collaborative Care: Navigating the Journey Together
It’s important to recognize that treatment for urinary incontinence is not one-size-fits-all; rather, it requires a personalized approach tailored to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. As a urologist, my goal is to empower patients with knowledge, support, and effective interventions to regain control over their bladder function and enhance their quality of life. By fostering open communication and collaboration, we can navigate the complexities of urinary incontinence together, striving for optimal outcomes and improved well-being for all affected individuals.
Kari Bailey, MD
By Lynn J Rust, PhD, and Sherwood Mackel, GripZ
Rediscover Your Creative Passions With Sher-Hold Devices By GripZ
the strain that contributes to longterm pain.
Has hand pain made it harder to enjoy the creative activities you once loved? Do dexterity challenges interfere with writing, crafting, crocheting, painting, or playing an instrument? Many people step away from hobbies not because they’ve lost interest – but because gripping thin tools has become too painful.
Most everyday creative tools –pens, crochet hooks, paintbrushes, drumsticks – weren’t designed with limited dexterity in mind. Their narrow handles force the fingers into a tight pinch, placing strain on the thumb joints. Over time, this can contribute to osteoarthritis, chronic pain, and reduced hand function.
Introducing a revolutionary adaptive device in the hand therapy space! At GripZ, LLC, the goal is simple: help people stay connected to the activities that bring them joy. Sher- Hold devices are ergonomic grips designed to slide over the tools you already own, instantly transforming them into more comfortable, supportive, and easy-to-hold instruments.
These adaptive grips have helped individuals with osteoarthritis, tremors, numbness, traumatic hand injuries, cerebral palsy, and repetitive strain injuries continue creating without discomfort.
When thumb joints become inflamed, even simple activities like journaling or sketching can feel overwhelming. For many, creativity is more than a pastime – it’s tied to identity, purpose, and emotional well-being.
Sher-Hold devices are designed to reduce pressure on the thumb and promote a more natural grip. This allows users to write, craft, and create with greater ease and less fatigue. The palm-filling shape improves stability and control, helping prevent slips while working with fine tools or instruments.
Whether you’re painting, crocheting, or playing music, these grips help minimize joint stress so you can focus on your craft – not your discomfort. They also support proper thumb positioning, helping reduce
Another key benefit is flexibility. Sher-Hold devices don’t force your hand into a fixed position – you can adjust your grip to match your natural technique. There’s no need to purchase specialized tools either; they’re designed to fit over the items you already use and love.
Lightweight, portable, and easy to clean, Sher-Hold devices make it possible to create comfortably at home or on the go.
From journaling and crafting to music and even activities like golf putting, these grips integrate seamlessly into everyday life.
Reclaiming your creative passions doesn’t have to mean pushing
through pain or replacing your tools. Sometimes, a simple solution can restore comfort, confidence, and freedom of expression.
For seniors, artists, hobbyists, and anyone experiencing hand discomfort, Sher-Hold devices offer a practical and affordable way to keep doing what you love – because when your hands feel better, creativity can thrive again. Visit gripZ.biz to learn more.
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You will enjoy extended creative sessions using Sher-Hold devices on your paintbrushes, crochet hooks, guitar picks, and more,
Wisdom Teeth Causing Pain?
Don’t Wait Until It Becomes an Emergency.
Oral Surgeon Dr. Larry Bryant Explains Why Third Molar Removal Today Can Prevent Months of Pain Tomorrow.
You wake up with a dull ache in the back of your mouth.
A few days later, your jaw feels sore. It hurts to chew. Your gums are swollen. Maybe you have a headache that won’t go away. Maybe your teeth suddenly feel crowded, or you notice a strange pressure near the back of your mouth. Many people assume it will go away. It usually doesn’t.
In many cases, the real problem is your wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth – also called third molars – are the last teeth to come in, usually between the ages of 16 and 25. By that point, most mouths simply do not have enough room for four additional teeth. When there is not enough space, wisdom teeth often become trapped, tilted, partially erupted, or impacted beneath the gums.
That pressure can lead to pain, swelling, infection, crowding, headaches, jaw stiffness, and damage to nearby teeth.
The good news? You do not have to keep living with it.
Dr. Bryant provides comfortable, safe wisdom tooth and third molar removal designed to relieve pain, protect your smile, and help you avoid more serious problems later.
Why Wisdom Teeth Cause So Many Problems
The average adult has room for about 28 teeth. Wisdom teeth are teeth number 29, 30, 31, and 32.
When those extra teeth try to force their way into a crowded mouth, problems often follow.
Some wisdom teeth grow sideways. Others remain trapped under the gums. Some partially erupt, leaving an opening where bacteria can collect. That can lead to:
• Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
• Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
• Infection around the tooth
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Headaches or facial pain
• Damage to nearby teeth
• Shifting or crowding of otherwise straight teeth
• Difficulty chewing
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
For many people, the discomfort comes and goes at first. They have a painful flare-up, then it settles down for a while.
Unfortunately, that does not mean the problem is gone.
Impacted wisdom teeth often continue causing damage beneath the surface. In some cases, they can contribute to cysts, infection, bone loss, or injury to nearby teeth.
That is why early treatment is so important.
The Best Time For Removal Is Before the Pain Gets Worse
Most people do not think about wisdom teeth until they are already hurting.
By then, the teeth may already be infected, severely impacted, or causing damage to neighboring teeth.
The ideal time for evaluation is during the mid-teen years or early twenties, before major problems develop. Removing wisdom teeth earlier is
often easier, more comfortable, and associated with a faster recovery. Even if you are older, however, it is not too late.
If you are having pain, swelling, repeated infections, pressure, or crowding, Dr. Bryant can evaluate your mouth and determine whether wisdom tooth or third molar removal is the right solution.
Using a complete oral examination and digital x-rays, Dr. Bryant can see exactly how the wisdom teeth are positioned and whether they are likely to create future problems.
Concerned
About Pain? Most Patients Say the Anticipation Was Worse Than the Procedure.
One of the biggest reasons people delay wisdom tooth removal is fear. They worry that the procedure will hurt.
In reality, modern oral surgery is far more comfortable than most people expect.
Dr. Bryant offers several anesthesia and sedation options to help you remain relaxed and comfortable during your procedure. Depending on your needs, treatment may be performed using:
• Local anesthesia
• Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”)
• IV sedation
• General anesthesia
You will not be left to “tough it out.”
Dr. Bryant and his experienced team will discuss your options and recommend the approach that is best for you.
Most patients remember very little about the procedure itself and are surprised by how quickly it is over.
The actual removal process is carefully planned, efficient, and performed with your comfort and safety in mind.
A Short Recovery Now Can Prevent Bigger Problems Later
Many patients postpone wisdom tooth removal because they are busy with school, work, sports, or family responsibilities.
But waiting often leads to a much bigger interruption later.
An infected or severely impacted wisdom tooth has a way of becoming painful at the worst possible time –during finals, before a vacation, before a wedding, or in the middle of an
important week. Planned third molar removal gives you control.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. When wisdom teeth are removed before they become severely problematic, recovery is usually smoother and easier.
Dr. Bryant will provide complete aftercare instructions, pain management recommendations, and close follow-up to help you heal comfortably.
If you are experiencing any of the following, your wisdom teeth may be the cause:
His goal is simple: relieve your pain, protect your oral health, and make the process as easy as possible.
Parents:
Don’t Wait Until Your Teen Is
In Pain
Many parents first learn there is a problem when their teenager suddenly develops swelling, pain, or an infection. A routine evaluation before symptoms appear can often prevent that situation.
If your child is between 15 and 19, now is an ideal time to schedule a wisdom tooth evaluation.
Early treatment often means:
• Less discomfort
• Faster healing
• Lower risk of complications
• Protection for teeth that have already had braces or orthodontic treatment Summer break, winter break, and long weekends are often excellent times for treatment and recovery.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
• Pain in the back of your mouth
• Swollen gums
• Jaw soreness
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Repeated infections
• Crowding of your teeth
• Pressure around your molars
You do not have to keep living with discomfort and wondering if it will get worse.
Schedule Your Wisdom Tooth Evaluation Today
Dr. Bryant can determine whether wisdom tooth or third molar removal is recommended and help you take care of the problem before it becomes more painful and more complicated. Call Dr. Bryant’s office today at 301-249-0553 to schedule your consultation.
Schedule Your Wisdom Tooth Evaluation Today
Dr. Bryant can determine whether wisdom tooth or third molar removal is recommended and help you take care of the problem before it becomes more painful and more complicated.
Your One-Stop Solution For a Healthy Smile
Submitted By Total Dental Care
Maintaining optimal dental health is crucial for overall well-being, and finding a dental office that offers comprehensive care under one roof is a game-changer. Total Dental Care is a well-established dental practice that takes pride in providing detailed and comprehensive services in various specialties, ensuring patients receive topnotch care for their unique dental needs.
General Dental Services: Total Dental Care excels in offering a wide array of general dental services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, and preventive care. Our experienced team focuses on early detection and intervention to prevent dental issues from escalating.
surgery, extractions, root canals and endodontic treatments, or restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Total Dental Care has you covered. Our specialists are experts in their respective fields, ensuring you receive tailored treatments for your specific dental concerns.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Total Dental Care stays at the forefront of dental technology, offering services such as digital intra-oral cameras, cone-beam CT scanners, and teethin-a-day. Our commitment to utilizing advanced techniques ensures effective and efficient treatments while minimizing complications.
Sedation Options: Understanding the anxiety some patients may feel, Total Dental Care offers laughing gas, oral sedation and IV general anesthesia options. Our goal is to create a comfortable and stress-free environment, catering to the individual
Please see “Healthy Smile,” page 54
TMJ Technology
By Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS Sleep & TMJ Therapy
In the world of TMD (temporomandibular disorder), there are many ways to treat the problem, but it must always begin with a good diagnosis. First and foremost are an MRI and CBCT x-ray of the joints and surrounding areas. The MRI is a magnetic imaging device that looks directly at the discs in the jaw joints. This high-
tech machine looks inside the joints and produces soft tissue images to help with your diagnosis. The CBCT is the x-ray machine that uses low-dose radiation to look at the bones inside the skull, the cervical spine, the teeth, and the condyles. These tools are what we use to come up with a diagnosis and then a plan to help you get better.
In many cases, the ALF wire is a really great device to help in so many ways. It will help position the tongue
to the roof of the mouth, which helps with better nasal breathing. It also promotes better swallowing. With good tongue positioning and better swallowing, you will breathe better as time goes by. This is one reason the ALF is very helpful.
Another appliance called the Gelb is an orthotic device that makes sure the condyle (hard bone) does not bang into the soft tissue disc. This appliance is helpful for so many people as it
We Are NOT Your Typical Dental Office
helps avoid the need for TMJ surgery in many cases. The idea is that you wear the Gelb for a year, maybe more, to give the discs a chance to get back into the proper position. In almost all cases, pain is reduced, and the person also sleeps better.
One of the most interesting bits of technology we have is the Fotona laser. This is a nonsurgical laser that penetrates deep into the tissue to reduce pain and inflammation. It stimulates the regeneration of damaged tissue. This device has been amazingly successful with our patients who need some degree of relief right away. In addition, the laser has a specific protocol that helps to reduce fat in the tongue, along with lifting the palate area to improve symptoms from sleep apnea. This, too, is a nonsurgical procedure and fairly easy to do in almost all cases.
Dr. Jeffrey Brown has limited his practice to focus only on TMJ Disorders, Craniofacial Pain Management and Sleep Apnea. By fixing slipped discs in the jaw joints, Dr. Brown can significantly reduce the pain patients experience in the head/neck region and other symptoms associated with jaw joint problems. Sleep & TMJ Therapy may be able to improve the quality of life for you or a loved one – we encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns.
“Dr. Brown and his staff are absolutely wonderful. I was diagnosed with Dystonia. I could not turn my head and had a ton of pain. My doctors offered no help and no advice besides Meds and Botox. Since having the appliance I have NO pain and I can turn my head. I would highly recommend them to anyone. I feel Dr. Brown and his staff really care about their patients and helping them to get better. They do not just numb the symptoms but fix the problem. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel like the old me again!”
- D. Thomas
“My daughter has been treated by Dr. Stack and Dr. Brown for the last 2 1/2 years, and we are very fortunate to have found them. Prior to that she was being treated by a neurologist at a Children’s hospital. She was on medications for tics and associated muscle pain, OCD/repetitive thoughts, sleeplessness and more (all possibly associated with Tourettes). Drs. Stack and Brown installed spacers to alleviate pressure on nerve bundles in the jaw, and subsequently braces to complete the process. Her symptoms have diminished significantly. She is off medication, her tics have all but disappeared, she can concentrate better in school, and she is once again cheerful and relaxed.”
- Susan
In the world of TMD (temporomandibular treat the problem, but it must always foremost are an MRI and CBCT x-ray MRI is a magnetic imaging device that joints. This high-tech machine looks images to help with your diagnosis. low-dose radiation to look at the bones teeth, and the condyles. These tools diagnosis and then a plan to help you
In many cases, the ALF wire is a really will help position the tongue to the roof nasal breathing. It also promotes positioning and better swallowing, you is one reason the ALF is very helpful.
Of course, it should always be mentioned that you can use things like Botox and other injectables to mitigate pain, however, our office prefers to fix the actual problem, not just mask it over. Other techniques like arthrocentesis are available. This involves flushing the joints to remove toxins. It does not fix anything, but it likely buys a little more time for those who are not ready to treat the problems. Technology has greatly improved over the past decades. There are more and more modalities of treatment offered. The ALF and Gelb are the timehonored, traditional approaches. This appliance therapy has been around since before the 70s. The fix takes time to implement, whereas the injectables are a quick source of pain relief. Ultimately, the patient will decide the technology for their health!
Another appliance called the Gelb is condyle (hard bone) does not bang helpful for so many people as it helps cases. The idea is that you wear the discs a chance to get back into the proper reduced, and the person also sleeps better
Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS
Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS
Back pain is the second most common reason people visit physicians in the US, with neck pain close behind. The spine and adjacent tissues are pivotal in nearly all major bodily movements.
Chiropractic services are used most often to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including but no limited to back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, and headaches.
Our Doctors are Nationally FMSCA Certified. Done by appointments only. Call today to schedule! Drug and Alcohol Testing also Available.
Since opening in 2003, Winters Chiropractic & Physical Therapy has remained dedicated to providing expert chiropractic, physical therapy, and DOT/CDL services. Our doctors provide tailored treatments that ensure you make the most gains at a comfortable, steady pace. The ultimate goal of any chiropractic or physical therapy program is to restore your physical health to its previous form. With our small practice, we have the advantage of maintaining personal relationships without compromising our ability to provide advance care.
The Only Non-invasive Laser Device With FDA Approved, IRB, and Clinically Proven Results For: Fat Reduction, Aesthetics, Cellulite Elimination, Weight Reduction, and Inch Loss.
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All-On-Four Dental Implants
Submitted By Sivakumar Sreenivasan, DMD, MDS
Dental Implant Center of Rockville
Can just four implants replace all of the teeth on the top or the bottom of your mouth? Thanks to advances in
dental implant technology, that answer is a resounding yes.
Tooth loss is extremely common among adults, especially as we age. Rather than living with the discomfort and hassles of dentures, many people are opting for what is called “all-on-
Outpatient Substance Use Treatment
Outpatient Mental Health Treatment
Primary Care
Behavioral Health Shelters
Residential Substance Use Treatment
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four” dental implant restoration.
An implant is a small titanium screw that fits inside your jawbone and replaces the root-part of a missing tooth. Minor surgery is required to insert the implants. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached to give you a highly realistic-looking and functional prosthetic tooth.
You do not need a dental implant for each and every one of your missing teeth. All you need is four precisely placed implants on the top of your mouth, and four on the bottom, to restore your full smile. That’s the beauty of the all-on-four. And because the implant is made of titanium, it has the unique ability to fuse to living bone and function as part of it. So eventually, the dental implant becomes part of the jawbone and serves as a strong, longlasting foundation for your new teeth.
Besides ensuring that your implants are permanently fixed in place, this bone fusion has another important benefit: it prevents future bone loss in the jaw. This helps to maintain a more youthful facial structure – and better oral health. But perhaps the biggest surprise about the all-on-four is how quickly it can transform your life.
Sivakumar Sreenivasan, DMD, MDS
What’s The All-On-Four Dental Implant Procedure Like?
First, either local or general anesthesia will be administered.
Second, the dentist or surgeon will prepare your mouth for the implants, which involves removing your remaining teeth that are failing. They will then remove any diseased or infected tissue from your jaw and gums.
Next, they will insert the titanium screws into your jawbone. Most likely, they will place two implants toward the front of your mouth and two towards the back of your mouth so the “anchors” can evenly bare the force of the denture.
After the implants have been placed, they will thoroughly clean the
Fibromyalgia How Do You Treat It?
Fibromyalgia affects at least six million Americans and causes significant disability—often more than Rheumatoid Arthritis. Its prevalence appears to be rising, though the exact cause remains unclear. Patients experience chronic widespread pain along with fatigue, poor sleep, cognitive issues, digestive problems, headaches, and other seemingly unrelated symptoms.
Because many conditions can
mimic fibromyalgia—such as hypothyroidism, nerve disorders, medication side effects, and autoimmune diseases—accurate diagnosis by an experienced physician is essential. Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment, and unnecessary testing and going down various rabbit holes.
Even with a correct diagnosis, patients are often told to rely mainly on medication. But if those drugs fail or cause side effects, options may seem limited. In reality, a broader approach can significantly improve quality of life.
Key strategies include restoring deep, consistent sleep; addressing nutritional and hormonal imbalances; and treating common gastrointestinal issues that affect absorption and inflammation. Conditions like bacterial or yeast overgrowth, food sensitivities, and Celiac Disease or gluten intolerance can also play a role and are often treatable.
Please see “Fibromyalgia,” page 54
Chiropractic Treatment and Pain
By Alicia Kovach, DC
Kovach Chiropractic
Chiropractic therapy stands as one of the most prevalent modalities of manual medicine, employing hands-on techniques to manipulate the body. Rooted in Greek origins denoting “done by hand,” chiropractic practice traces back to ancient healing traditions in China, India, and Egypt. Since its formal inception in 1895, chiropractors have emphasized spinal manipulation to alleviate various pains, notably chronic low back pain, neck discomfort, and tension headaches, alongside addressing knee, shoulder, and elbow pain. Central to their approach is spinal adjustment,
aimed at remedying restricted spinal mobility, often supplemented by adjunctive therapies like ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, and tailored exercises, all geared toward enhancing spinal function and mobility.
Acknowledging that some patients may be averse to manual manipulation, chiropractors have devised alternatives such as the chiropractic activator. This tool emerged from the necessity for a gentler, more efficient intervention, minimizing discomfort and stress during treatment. By employing the activator, chiropractors can mitigate patient apprehension, facilitating a less painful and more effective realignment of bodily structures. Determining the most suitable approach for each patient remains the chiropractor’s prerogative.
Chiropractic intervention proves beneficial in addressing trauma-induced spinal misalignments resulting from accidents, which can aggravate nerves, bones, ligaments, and discs. Even seemingly minor accidents hold the potential to induce nerve-damaging misalignments, underscoring the importance of prompt intervention.
Dentures & Denture Repairs
When Pain Keeps Coming Back Your Body May Be Asking For Something More
By Milca Kaplan, NP Metro Best Health
Pain is often treated as something to silence or push through. A headache, aching joints, back pain, muscle tension, or ongoing inflammation may be dismissed as stress, aging, or “just part of life.” But pain is not simply an inconvenience – it is information. It is one of the body’s most important ways of signaling that something
needs attention.
Acute pain has a purpose. It warns us when we are injured or unwell. Chronic pain, however, is different. When pain lasts for weeks or months, it may indicate an underlying imbalance that has not been addressed.
Many factors can contribute to chronic pain, including inflammation, poor sleep, stress, hormone changes, nutrient deficiencies, digestive issues, and metabolic imbalances. For some women, declining estrogen during midlife can increase joint pain, headaches, and muscle stiffness. Others may develop pain as a result of chronic stress, which raises cortisol levels and keeps the body in a constant state of tension and inflammation.
The body’s systems are deeply Please see “Pain,” page 54
Discover what’s really behind your symptoms –and how to restore your balance, energy, and confidence. At MetroBest Health, we look deeper than quick fixes. Whether it’s hormones, metabolism, stress, or thyroid function, we identify the real root cause of what’s holding you back –then design a plan that helps you feel like yourself again.
Forefoot Surgery
By Howard Horowitz, DPM Bowie Foot & Ankle
Many foot problems do not respond to conservative management. Your podiatric physician can determine when surgical intervention may be helpful. Often, when pain or deformity persists, surgery may be appropriate to alleviate discomfort or to restore the function of your foot.
Bunions
A bunion, which is a common deformity of the foot, is an enlargement of the bone and tissue around the joint of the big toe.
When symptomatic, the area may become red, swollen and inflamed, making shoe gear and walk-
ing uncomfortable and difficult. If conservative care fails to reduce these symptoms, surgical intervention may be warranted.
Hammertoes
A hammertoe deformity is a contracture of the toe(s), frequently caused by an imbalance in the tendon or joints of the toes.
Due to the buckling effect of the toe(s), hammertoes may become painful secondary to footwear irritation and pressure. Your podiatric physician may suggest correction of this deformity through a surgical procedure to realign the toe(s).
Neuroma
An irritation of a nerve may produce a neuroma, which is a benign enlargement of a nerve segment, commonly found between the third and fourth toes. Several factors may contribute to the formation of a neuroma.
Your podiatric physician will likely x-ray the affected area to determine the size and severity of the neuroma and suggest a treatment plan. If conservative treatment does not
Please see “Forefoot Surgery,” page 54
Your Mobile Chinese Medicine Natural Healing Doctor
Dr. Angel Wood, DACM offers a natural, holistic approach to healing that complements conventional medical care. For patients seeking answers and a doctor who listens, she provides customized treatment protocols tailored to individual needs, and personalized care in the comfort of your home. No waiting rooms.
Services Include:
• Full Holistic & Functional Wellness Procedures
• In-Home Concierge Visits • Bioscan Evaluations
• IV Therapy • Acupuncture • Chinese Herbal Medicine
Dr. Wood integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Traditional Naturopathy with modern functional nurtitional approaches to support energy, immune health, hormonal balance, digestion, inflammation control, and whole-body wellness.
cfeitel@medicalanddentalspace.com
CHARLES L. FEITEL
Dr. Craig Smith is committed to health through dentistry, ensuring you have optimal oral health which contributes to your overall health and well-being. Quality service, advanced technology and a passionate commitment to education means patients receive the best that dentistry has to offer.
Keeping Maryland Residents Connected
By Maryland Relay/ Telecommunications Access of MD
Imagine how different your life would be if you were unable to use a telephone to keep in touch with family or friends, make appointments, or conduct business. This is a challenge faced by millions of people who are deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, DeafBlind or have difficulty speaking.
According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, 20% of adults in the United States live with some degree of difficulty hearing. For those over the age of 65, one out of every three people can benefit from Maryland Relay services.
Maryland Relay is a free public service that makes it possible for people who have difficulty hearing or speaking to place and receive telephone calls. Accessible anywhere in the state by dialing 7-1-1, Maryland Relay provides a wide array of services to meet the diverse needs of its users, including:
• Traditional Relay (TTY) for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, late-
deafened or have difficulty speaking. Also known as a text telephone, a TTY has a keyboard, which allows the user to type his/her side of the conversation, and a text screen to read the other person’s responses.
• Hearing Carry-Over (HCO), Speech-to-Speech (STS), and Visually Assisted STS for those who can hear clearly, but have difficulty speaking or being understood over the telephone. With HCO, the user types his/her side of the conversation on a TTY or HCO phone. With STS, the user speaks with his/her own voice, and a Maryland Relay Operator revoices everything he/ she says, as needed, to the other person. With Visually Assisted STS, Maryland Relay Operators are able to use both speech and visual cues to facilitate conversations for users via a live video connection.
• Voice Carry-Over (VCO) for Relay users who have difficulty hearing but prefer to use their own voice in phone conversations. VCO callers use a VCO phone or TTY to speak to the other person while a Maryland Relay Operator types the other person’s response.
• Captioned Telephone, which allows users who are hard-of-hearing to read captions of phone conversations while they listen to what the other person says.
• Remote Conference Captioning (RCC), which provides captions of what all participants are saying during conference calls.
• Braille TTY for Relay users who are DeafBlind. A Braille TTY includes a keyboard, which allows the user to type his/her side of the conversation, and a Braille display for reading the other person’s responses. In addition to the services available through Maryland Relay, people in Maryland who have difficulty using a telephone may also qualify for assistive telecommunications equipment, provided by the State through the Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program. Qualified MAT program applicants must meet specific financial requirements and will participate in a free evaluation to ensure they receive the best equipment for their individual needs.
If you, or a loved one, have difficulty hearing or speaking over the phone, there are services and equipment available to keep you connected. To learn more about Maryland Relay and the MAT program, please visit mdrelay.org.
Follow-up Visits After Bariatric Surgery
By Etwar McBean, MD, FACS
The Bariatric & Hernia Institute, PC
Bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery) provides a tool for individuals struggling with weight management. Common procedures such as
the gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy reduce the size of the stomach and change the way nutrients are digested and absorbed.
Just as important as the surgery are the regularly scheduled followup visits in the post-operative period. Follow-up visits are often scheduled every 3-6 months during the first year after bariatric surgery. During the second year, visits are typically every six months. During the third year and after, follow-up visits are expected at least annually. Below are some reasons for scheduled visits.
Accountability
It is important to establish life-
Please see “Follow Up,” page 54
Painful Sex
A Real Mid-Life Crisis
Submitted by New Day Vitality Hormone Center
It’s one of life’s cruel ironies: the kids are finally out of the house so you have more privacy and free time but having sex gets . . . complicated.
“Both men and women deal with hormone changes in their 40s that can cause changes in sexual arousal, desire and general physical comfort during sexual activity,” says Shannon Chavez, a licensed psychologist and certified sex therapist in Los Angeles.
But for women, pain with intercourse – called dyspareunia (dis-puhROO-nee-uh) – is among their top three menopause problems.
According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), a sciencedriven, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of all women during midlife and beyond, “between 17-45% of postmenopausal women say they find sex painful.”
The culprit is lower levels of estrogen. Throughout a woman’s reproductive years, estrogen contributes to effective vaginal lubrication and thickens the vaginal wall while increasing blood vessels to the skin. But levels of estrogen wildly fluctuate in women’s 40s and, without hormone therapy, remain low after menopause, causing vaginal
atrophy – vaginal dryness and loss of elasticity. Not only can this cause pain during sex, but, over time, intercourse under these harsh conditions also can cause vaginal inflammation and even mild injury, adding to a woman’s distress and discomfort.
Luckily, there are treatments available for vaginal atrophy and dyspareunia, ranging from over-thecounter water-soluble lubricants to topical and systemic hormone therapy. But lubrication alone may not solve the problem of vaginal atrophy. NAMS suggests the use of vibrators and dildos to help stimulate blood flow, as well as vaginal dilators – plastic or rubbery round-tipped cylinders, graduated in size – that are used to stretch and relax the vaginal muscles. (Go to https:// www.menopause.org/for-women/ sexual-health-menopause-online/effective-treatments-for-sexual-problems/ sexual-devices, for more information.)
It may take some extra work, a bit of adjustment, and a sense of humor certainly helps, but sex beyond your 40s can be fun and satisfying. Be sure to talk to your GYN about pain that persists and don’t be shy about talking to a sex therapist. Countless studies have shown the health benefits of a happy sex life, so take advantage of that empty nest. Say YES to sex!
When Back Or Joint Pain Starts Interfering With Daily Life
By William Baca, DC Baca Chiropractic Services
Back pain, neck pain, knee pain, and joint stiffness are some of the most common reasons people struggle to stay active. Pain can make it harder to work, sleep, exercise, drive,
or even enjoy simple daily activities. While many people assume they just have to “live with it,” persistent pain is often a sign that something in the body needs attention.
Pain frequently develops when the muscles, joints, ligaments, or nerves are not functioning properly.
Poor posture, repetitive movements, arthritis, old injuries, time spent sitting, or even stress can contribute to discomfort. In some cases, a minor problem gradually becomes worse over time because the body begins compensating in unhealthy ways.
Lower back pain is especially
End Your Pain, Reclaim Life
Personalized Chiropractic Care for Fast, Natural Relief
At Baca Chiropractic Services, we are dedicated to providing chiropractic solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches, or muscular tightness and tension, Dr. Baca welcomes you to our practice. We strive to make every patient feel at home, which is why individuals throughout the Southern Maryland area choose Baca Chiropractic Services for their chiropractic care.
Common Conditions We Treat:
We specialize in treating a range of chronic pain conditions. Our personalized and effective chiropractic care targets the following areas: Wrist Pain and Arthritis Treatment
• Golfers Elbow, Tennis Elbow Lower Back Pain Management
• Chronic and Acute Low Back Pain Hip Pain and Mobility Improvement
• Hip Osteoarthritis, Hip Bursitis
common. It may develop after lifting something heavy, sitting too long, or from long-term wear and tear. Neck pain can come from looking down at a phone or computer for hours each day. Joint pain in the knees, shoulders, hips, wrists, or elbows may be related to arthritis, overuse, sports injuries, or inflammation.
Headaches can also be connected to tension in the neck and upper back. When muscles become tight and the joints in the neck do not move properly, they can place pressure on surrounding nerves and tissues, leading to frequent headaches or migraines.
One important step in managing pain is identifying the cause instead of simply covering it up. Rest, stretching, improving posture, and staying active can help many people. Physical therapy, guided exercise, and chiropractic care may also improve mobility and reduce discomfort by addressing the source of the problem rather than only treating the symptoms.
For example, people with knee pain may benefit from exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the joint. Someone with chronic back pain may improve by correcting posture, stretching tight muscles, and improving core strength. Those dealing with arthritis often find that gentle movement is more effective than complete rest.
Pain that lasts more than a few weeks, keeps returning, or begins interfering with sleep, work, or daily life should not be ignored. Numbness, weakness, severe headaches, or pain after an accident are additional signs that it is time to seek professional evaluation.
The earlier pain is addressed, the easier it often is to restore movement, reduce discomfort, and return to normal activities.
William Baca, DC
ADVENTIST MEDICAL GROUP
PRIMARY CARE SERVICES FOR YOU
Choose Adventist Medical Group Primary Care in Fort Washington, Maryland, to provide a full range of primary care services for adults.
Learn to better manage your health and prevent illnesses with personalized care from our experienced, primary care providers. Our specialists in family medicine and internal medicine work as a team to deliver expert care when you need:
• Same-day Sick Visits
• Women’s and Men’s Health and Wellness Exams
• Health Physicals, Health Maintenance and Preventive Care
• Geriatric (Senior) Wellness Exams
• Vaccinations and Immunizations, including Flu Shots
• Health Management for:
• Asthma and Allergies
• High Blood Pressure
• High Cholesterol
• Diabetes
You also benefit from coordinated care that helps you effectively handle all aspects of your health—from preventive medicine and preoperative appointments to management of chronic health conditions.
• Heart Disease To schedule an appointment, please call 240-724-6018 10709 Indian Head Highway, Suite D1 Fort Washington, Maryland 20744 AdventistMedicalGroup.org
By Kylie Taylor, Director of Access and Patient Experience Hospice of the Chesapeake
More Time With the People You Love Why Earlier Hospice Referrals Matter
Hospice is designed for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. But too often, people are referred to hospice care in their final days or final hours.
The secret to hospice care is that it shouldn’t be a secret.
When that happens, patients and families miss out on the full value of what hospice provides—an interdisciplinary team that supports not just physical needs, but emotional, spiritual, and practical needs.
This team includes nurses, phy-
sicians, social workers, chaplains, aides, and volunteers. Together, they create a wraparound approach to care. But that level of support takes more than a few days to establish. When a patient is only on hospice for a few days, there isn’t enough time to build relationships, provide education, or fully manage symptoms.
Getting To Know You
With earlier referrals, we can
proactively manage pain, breathing issues, nausea, and other symptoms before they become crises. We can ensure necessary equipment such as a hospital bed, wheelchair, oxygen and more is in place. We have time to help caregivers feel confident in their role. Just as importantly, we have time to create a care plan for what matters most to the patient and their family.
Hospice does not mean giving up hope. It means redefining it. For some, hope looks like comfort. For others, it means spending meaningful time with loved ones or continuing to do the things they enjoy. When patients enter hospice earlier, they are often still able to participate in these decisions, helping guide their own care. That opportunity is often lost with late referrals.
Help For Caregivers
Hospice also provides critical support for families. Without it, many caregivers find themselves in crisis at the end of life, unsure of what to expect or how to help. With earlier involvement, we can provide education about the natural process of dying, replacing fear with understanding. Families gain confidence, form relationships with the care team, and can focus less on managing symptoms and more on being present.
This support also shapes the grief journey. With more time, families can begin processing their loss and have access to counselors and chaplains who help them navigate difficult emotions. Instead of feeling overwhelmed at the end, they feel more prepared and supported.
What Matters Most
One of the biggest barriers to earlier hospice referrals is misunderstanding. Many people, including healthcare providers, still see hospice as something to consider only when there are no other options. In truth, hospice is about focusing on what matters most and improving quality of life.
I often tell families: I have never heard anyone say they wish they had waited longer to start hospice. What I hear instead is, “I wish we had called sooner.”
If hospice has crossed your mind, it’s worth having the conversation. Because the earlier it begins, the more it can offer to patients and the people who love them.
Learn more about hospice. Call Hospice of the Chesapeake at 410-987-2003 or visit www.hospicechesapeake.org.
Technology
All-On-4 Dental Implants: A Reason To Smile Again
All-on-Four: One Full Arch Of Teeth, Four Dental Implants
To fully understand this remarkable technique for replacing teeth, you should first understand what a dental implant is. An implant is a small titanium screw that fits inside your jawbone and replaces the root-part of a missing tooth. Minor surgery is required to insert the implants. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached to give you a highly realistic-looking and functional prosthetic tooth. Here’s where it gets really interesting: You do not need a dental implant for each and every one of your missing teeth. All you need is four precisely placed implants on the top of your mouth, and four on the bottom, to restore your full smile. That’s the beauty of the all-on-four. And because the implant is made of titanium, it has the unique ability to fuse to living bone and function as part of it. So eventually, the dental implant becomes part of the jawbone and serves as a strong, long-lasting foundation for your new teeth.
Besides ensuring that your implants are permanently fixed in place, this bone fusion has another important benefit: it prevents future bone loss in the jaw. This helps to maintain a more youthful facial structure – and better oral health. But perhaps the biggest surprise about the all-on-four is how quickly it can transform your life.
What’s The All-on-Four Dental Implant Procedure Like?
It can be scary to get implants for the first time. Most of that fear is probably due to the uncertainty, so here is the step-by-step process for getting an All-on-Four dental implant.
First, your dentist will want to make sure your comfortable, so either local or general anesthesia will be administered. Second, the dentist or surgeon will prepare your mouth for the implants, which involves removing your remaining teeth that are failing. They will then remove any diseased or infected tissue from your jaw and gums.
Next, they will begin the implantation process. This means they will insert the titanium screws into your jawbone. Most likely, they will place two implants toward the front of your mouth and two towards the back of your mouth so the “anchors” can evenly bare the force of the denture.
After the implants have been placed, they will thoroughly clean the surgical sites and suturing all the incisions. Then you’ll be taken to a recovery room where you can relax
the anesthesia.
ALF ( Advanced Light Force) THERAPY
ALF Therapy has proven to be an extremely valuable tool for those patients who have:
• A need for facial guidance
• Palate expansion
• Narrow palates
• Breathing issues
• TMJ dysfunction
• Craniofacial pain
• Crowded/crooked teeth
• An avoidance for extractions
• Crossbite, overbite or underbite
• Cranial asymmetry
• Sleeping problems — snoring
• Recommendations for jaw surgery
Our ALF appliances are certified by Dr. Darick Nordstrom. He has personally instructed our ALF-certified technicians on the proper design and fabrication techniques to ensure that each technician is capable of creating authentic ALF appliances worthy of certification. The seal below is his stamp of approval.
Dr. Brown is highly trained in ALF (Advanced Light Force) therapy. He has over 500 hours in ALF therapy training and has lectured around the world teaching ALF techniques with Dr. Nordstrom, the creator of the ALF appliances. The ALF appliances are thin, conservative appliances that can be used on the upper and lower arches. They hide behind the teeth, are removable and are basically invisible when being worn. This innovative treatment approach is used to address neurological, orthodontic and orthopedic issues, and the benefits are vast. Each appliance is unique to the patient and designed by the doctor to achieve specific goals relating to health, beauty and function. No ALF appliance is the same, and treatment is pain-free.
MINI IMPLANTS
Mini dental implants are about half the size in diameter of a regular dental implant. This offers many benefits, and they can also be used in situations where regular implants cannot. If an implant needs to be placed in a narrow space, mini implants are the preferred method because of their smaller size.
A main use for mini implants is to install a full upper or lower denture. A series of mini implants (4-6) are placed along the gum line and they serve as the base of the denture. Rather than placing a single implant for a single tooth, an entire lower or upper set of teeth are directly attached to the gum line.
The small size of mini implants often means that no incision needs to be made to place the implant. They can usually be inserted right through the gum into the bone. This eliminates the need for a recovery period, and the restoration can usually be placed a short time after.
Mini implants are also less expensive than regular implants. Only your dentist knows if mini implants are right for you, so call for your consultation today.
Airway before ALF Treatment; red shows very serious airway constriction.
Airway after ALF treatment, full resolution of this 30-year-old patient’s symptoms.
Brent C. White, Jr., DDS ThunderBird Dental Office
Technology
Foot & Ankle Surgery Has Changed. You May Not Need General Anesthesia.
If you have been putting off foot or ankle surgery because you are worried about being “put to sleep,” spending hours in the hospital, or facing a long, painful recovery, there is good news.
Today, many foot and ankle procedures can be performed under local anesthesia. That means only the area being treated is numbed while you remain comfortable and pain-free. No general anesthesia. No lengthy hospital stay. In many cases, you go home the very same day.
Dr. Mikel Daniels and his team use advanced, minimally invasive technology and local anesthesia for many procedures involving both the foot and ankle, including bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, ingrown toenails, ankle fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, and other painful foot and ankle conditions. Patients experience:
• Lower costs • Less pain/downtime • Smaller incisions • Faster recovery • Quicker return to daily life
For many patients, surgery that once seemed overwhelming now feels far more manageable.
For more than 30 years, We Treat Feet Podiatry has helped patients get back on their feet with advanced foot and ankle care. You do not have to keep living with foot or ankle pain that limits your life.
• Natural, safe, laser light energy is pulsed and absorbed by the subcutaneous tissue.
• Supercharges the body’s metabolism through ATP synthesis to burn fat as energy.
• Waste products are expelled from the body via sweat, urine and respiratory exhaustion.
• The body continues to burn fat for up to 4 hours after treatment.
• Collagen and elastin production is increased within the skin layers to rejuvenate and repair skin cells addressing cellulite, skin laxity and stretch-marks.
10AM-7PM, Friday 9:30AM-5PM
Featured Health Professionals
Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier
Mohsin S. Sheikh, MD
Dr. Mohsin S. Sheikh brings more than a decade of experience, leadership, and compassionate care to Pain & Spine Specialists. Prior to joining the practice, he spent 12 years caring for patients in Gaithersburg, where he served as founder and medical director of Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates.
Board-certified in both Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, Dr. Sheikh is known for accurately diagnosing complex pain conditions and creating individualized treatment plans that help patients regain function and quality of life.
COMPREHENSIVE CONSERVATIVE CARE
Pain & Spine Specialists believes the best outcomes begin with a thorough evaluation and the least invasive treatment possible. They work closely with primary care physicians, specialists, therapists, and chiropractors to provide complete, multidisciplinary care that may include medication management, physical therapy, and other conservative approaches.
ADVANCED INTERVENTIONAL PROCEDURES
When more specialized treatment is needed, Pain & Spine Specialists offer a full range of advanced pain management procedures designed to target pain at its source. These include image-guided injections, spinal procedures, nerve treatments, and other state-ofthe-art techniques that help many patients avoid surgery.
REGENERATIVE MEDICINE OPTIONS
Pain & Spine Specialists also offers regenerative treatment options that support the body’s natural healing process. These innovative therapies may help patients with joint, spine, and musculoskeletal pain reduce discomfort and improve function.
Recognized by Washingtonian magazine as a “Top Doctor” for nine consecutive years, Dr. Sheikh is dedicated to delivering elite, compassionate and personalized care.
Felicia Schumacher, DC
Dr. Felicia Schumacher was born and raised in Central New Jersey. She completed her undergraduate studies at Towson University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. She then attended Sherman College of Chiropractic in Spartanburg, SC where she recieved her doctorate in 2024.
Dr. Felicia is dry needling and webster certified. She works with a variety of patients ranging from expecting mothers, adolescents, personal injury, and geriatric. Growing up Dr. Felicia played competitive sports where she excelled in softball, so working with athletes is one of her passions.
Outside of work she likes to spend time with family and friends, go to the beach, and play with her fur babies.
Meet Felicia Schumacher
Featured Health Professionals
Alicia Kovach, DC
Degrees/Training: Graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, DRX Training, Activator, Myofascial Release, Board Certified Physi cal Therapy and Webster Certification. Trained in the Thompson Technique, as well as in the latest evidence based Chiropractic treatments for Pediatric and Pregnancy Care Associations: Maryland Chiropractic Association, International Chiropractic Pediatric Association Areas of Interest: Maternity Care, Pediatric Care, Worker’s Com pensation, Personal Injury, Spinal Decompression for Herniated Discs
Hobbies: Sports Fan, Swimming, Running and spending time with her family Inspiration: Helping people restore their health naturally on a daily basis.
Most Memorable Moment: Through the use of the chiropractic care and other wellness modalities, she has seen patients go from extreme back and/or neck pain to little or no pain and the ability to return to a productive life. Patients injured through automo bile accidents or work related accidents that could hardly func tion daily in their jobs have been able to return to work and daily activities pain free.
Best Health Advice: Pay attention to your body and don’t ignore the subtle signals. Those subtle signals can lead to a quicker recovery.
Cancer Patients:
Chiropractic treatment can relieve pain and stiffness in your joints and muscles caused or intensified by surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Call our office today to find out if Chiropractic care may be right for you.
Aric Adlam, DC
Dr. Aric Adlam was born and raised in the suburbs Michigan where he started receiving chiropractic of 2 years old. After a traumatic football injury future athletic career at the age of 16, Dr. Adlam risky spinal surgery for an all chiropractic approach. only a half of a football season instead of the predicted Dr. Adlam was back on the field. More importantly, decided during that time that he had found his calling decided to pursue a career as a Chiropractor.
Dr. Adlam received an undergraduate Bachelor of with an emphasis in Biological Sciences before practic school. He then continued his education at College of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA where he received torate of Chiropractic degree, fulfilling his dream Chiropractor.
Dr. Adlam is highly trained in the diagnosis and treatment tissue injuries often encountered in the spine, extremities rest of the body. He has extensive experience with state of the art spine rehabilitation technology equipment used in the treatment of spine related had success in treating many patients who have dealt ic neck and low back pain for years as well as headaches that found no relief in the traditional medical model. tensive expertise in the treatment of whiplash injuries result from automobile accidents. Dr. Adlam is also the diagnosis and treatment of bulging discs in the neck utilizing the latest treatment methods available. Dr. Adlam comes from a history of highly competitive and takes pride in getting the high performance weekend warrior back in the game safely and effectively. forward to bringing the patients of Kovach Chiropractic ness Center the best chiropractic care possible.
Kristina Anderson, DC
Dr. Kristina Anderson was born and raised in northern New Jersey. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. She then went on to receive her Doctor of Chiropractic degree and Masters in Applied Clinical Nutrition at New York Chiropractic College.
Since graduating, Dr. Anderson has received certifications including Rocktape, Dry Needling, Active Release Technique, FAKTR (Functional and Kinetic Treatment with Rehab), and the Webster Technique. After having to take time off from Track and Field in high school due to quadriceps tendinitis, she understands the importance of quality rehabilitation and care and continues to educate herself to better assist her patients.
Throughout her career as a chiropractor, Dr. Anderson has worked with a variety of patients including athletes, perinatal, postnatal, personal injury, adolescents, and geriatric. Dr. Anderson works tediously to ensure that maximum therapeutic benefit is achieved. Outside of work Dr. Anderson enjoys reading, watching stand-up comedy, musicals, and traveling with her husband.
Featured Health Professionals
Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier
Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS
TMJ & Sleep Apnea Treatment
Meet Jeffrey L. Brown
Dr. Brown’s practice focuses on TMJ, sleep apnea and orthodontics. This allows Dr. Brown and his team to provide individualized, focused care for patients dealing with these specific issues. Every day, his practice helps patients of all ages with facial development, sleep issues, chronic headaches, migraines, neck pain, movement disorders, and much more. His training also includes multiple disciplines involving the cranial bones in the skull, and the discs in the jaw joints. Through treatment, Dr. Brown is able to reduce these symptoms, align cranial bones, avoid extractions, and greatly reduce the need for traditional braces. His expertise allows him to identify issues early on which promotes proper facial development using dental appliances. If there is an internal imbalance, whether an adult or child, the body does not develop or function properly. When the cranial bones are lined up correctly, patients are able to function, sleep and generally live better.
With that in mind, the team at Sleep & TMJ Therapy takes a whole-body approach when treatment planning. They work hand in hand with physical therapists and osteopathic doctors for a better success rate. Dr. Brown is devoted to helping patients of all ages live a symptom free life.
Degrees & Certifications
Dr. Brown earned his degree from Georgetown Dental School and completed residencies with Emory University Hospital for Dental Sleep Medicine and the ALF Appliance Therapy Institute.
Outside the Office
When not seeing patients, Dr. Brown is a sought-after speaker. He has lectured all over the world, including D.C., Dubai, Seoul, London, Norway and Toronto. He has also been featured on Channel 9’s Good Morning Washington, several podcasts, and numerous magazines and journals.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Brown is a diplomate of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Gnathological Orthopedic, Academy of Integrative Pain Management American Dental Association, a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and Legacy Provider for the ALF Interface Academy.
Do you have TMD or Sleep Apnea?
TMD Symptoms: Noise in the jaw joints when opening and closing your mouth, difficulty chewing, limited opening, tender facial muscles, ear ringing, uncomfortable bite, jaw locking, headaches, migraines, dizziness, vision issues as well as pain in the jaw area which can radiate to the ears, head, neck, shoulders, and back.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms: Snoring, waking up gasping for air, feeling tired and irritable in the morning, difficulty controlling weight, concentration problems, morning headaches, episodes of not breathing, waking with a sore throat, forgetfulness and mood changes.
If you believe you may be suffering from TMD or Sleep Apnea, don't wait... Call today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown: 703-821-1103.
You probably know family and friends whose lives were cut short by heart disease or cancer. Then you ask yourself “Is there any way to keep that from happening to me?” The answer is “yes.” Today there is a simple non-invasive test that can often identify these illnesses in their earliest stages, when they can most effectively be treated and cured.
It’s called the Virtual Physical. The Virtual Physical takes less than twenty minutes and is a safe, painless, high-speed full Body, Heart and Colon scan. It has already saved many lives by uncovering many illnesses like cancer, heart disease, aneurysms, and tumors.
The Virtual Physical is a test that gives you the advantage in finding diseases and abnormalities at their early stages, long before symptoms occur. Make the choice that could save your Life.
Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier
Winters Chiropractic & Physical Therapy
With offices in Charlotte Hall, and La Plata, we are conveniently located to help with all of your chiropractic needs. Since serving the community since 2003, we offer many services such as chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, exercise therapy, children’s therapy, DOT/CDL Physicals, and more. Winters Chiropractic and Physical Therapy is a full service care office. We focus on our patients comfort while providing the latest techniques to relieve persistent pain.
Dr. Paul J. Winters
BS, DC w/PT Privileges, CME
Degrees, Training, and Certifications: Doctor of Chiropractic, Northwestern College of Chiropractic; Bachelor of Science, North Dakota State University; Certified Medical Examiner, FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Doctor of Chiropractic w/Physical Therapy Privileges, FMCSA DOT/CDL Certified Medical Examiner.
Professional Memberships/Associations: Maryland Chiropractic Association, Maryland Board of Chiropractic & Massage Therapy Examiners.
Techniques: Diversified, Thompson, SOT, Active Release Technique, Passive Release Technique, Trigger Point Therapy
Expertise: Personal/Work/Sports Injuries, DOT/CDL Medical Certifications, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Nutrition.
Personal Interests: Family and Vacationing, Motorcycling (Harley Davidson), Snowmobiling, Target Shooting, Computers
Dr. Patrick C. Winters
DC w/PT Privileges
Degrees, Training, and Certifications: Doctor of Chiropractic, Northwestern College of Chiropractic; Bachelor of Science, Human Biology Minnesota State University. AMA Guides to Evaluating Permanent Impairment, Certified Disability Examiner, Manipulation Under Anesthesia Certified.
Professional Memberships/Associations: Maryland Chiropractic Association
Expertise: Personal, Work and Sports Injuries, Spinal and Extremity Conditions, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Nutrition
Personal Interests: Family, Home, The Great Outdoors, Motorcycles, Snowmobiles
Featured Health Professionals
Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier
Dr. Michael Davis AllStarPainManagement.com
Dr. Michael Davis is a fellowship-trained Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physician who specializes in treating spine and musculoskeletal conditions. A former two-sport collegiate athlete, he understands how important movement is – not just for performance, but for overall health and quality of life. He completed his training at UCLA Health and the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, followed by advanced fellowship training at OSS Health, where he focused on imageguided procedures for spine and joint pain.
Dr. Davis works closely with each patient to identify the root cause of their pain and develop personalized treatment plans. By utilizing minimally invasive, targeted treatments, he helps patients reduce pain and improve function – often avoiding surgery. His primary areas of focus include sports injuries, joint pain, and neck and back conditions. Additionally, Dr. Davis has a strong interest in regenerative medicine and collaborates with Dr. Zed to provide advanced, nonsurgical options.
His goal is simple: to help patients feel better, move better, and get back to doing what they love.
Outside of the clinic, he enjoys running, strength training, traveling, and spending time with his family.
Interal Medicine / Diabetes Management
Rejuve Medical Group is a family-owned interal medicine practice committed to your total well-being. The Group is a blend of RejuVe Health and Medispa/SpinaTherapeutics. We hope to inspire you to feel, look, and live your best life!
We offer medically guided services designed to support blood sugar control, metabolic health, and long-term mobility:
• Semaglutide (GLP-1 therapy) – A clinically proven option that helps regulate appetite, improve insulin sensitivity, support weight loss, and reduce cardiometabolic risk when medically appropriate.
• Chronic Neck & Back Pain – IDD Therapy® offers up to a 94% success rate in treating and effectively eliminating severe neck and back pain conditions. It is a gentle, comfortable therapy that painlessly works to restore normal spinal function.
• Private, Customized Workouts – Individually designed exercise programs that help improve glucose utilization, increase insulin sensitivity, and support safe, sustainable physical activity for patients with diabetes or prediabetes.
• Emsculpt Neo – Builds lean muscle while reducing fat, helping improve metabolic rate and glucose control. Increased muscle mass plays a key role in better blood sugar regulation.
• Emsella – Strengthens pelvic floor muscles, which can be especially beneficial for patients experiencing urinary changes related to aging, diabetes, or childbirth.
• Emtone – Helps tighten loose skin that can occur after significant weight loss, supporting comfort and confidence during body-composition changes.
• Robard Meal Replacement Program – A medically supervised, evidence-based nutrition program developed from extensive academic research, designed to support weight management, glycemic control, and long-term lifestyle change.
Featured Health Professionals
E. Taylor Meiser, Jr., DDS
Meet E. Taylor Meiser, Jr.
Degrees/Training: DDS, University of Maryland Dental School; General Practice Residency, San Diego Naval Hospital; Prosthodontics Residency, Naval Dental School, Bethesda; U.S. Navy Dental Corps Officer, Commander, USN, (retired).
Professional Memberships: American Dental Association, Maryland State Dental Association, Anne Arundel County Dental Society, Annapolis Dental Study Club, Chesapeake Implant Study Club, University of Maryland Alumni Association.
Practice Philosophy: To follow the “Golden Rule” in all aspects of professional dental care, providing outstanding quality dentistry in a caring, comfortable and comprehensive manner. Lighthouse Family Dentistry will “Light Up Your Smile.”
She completed her Internal Medicine training at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA. She went on to pursue her Cardiology training at Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA where she also decided to stay and complete an additional year of training in Interventional Cardiology. She is a native of Fort Washington, MD and was eager to come back to familiar roots to start her career as a Cardiologist.
Dr. Washington’s interest in medicine started early as both her parents were in the medical field. Her inspiration is derived from the sacrifice of her parents as well as countless other health care workers that dedicate their careers in service to others.
Her specific interests in Cardiology include coronary artery disease and prevention, women’s cardiovascular health, and health disparities. Coronary heart disease or disease of the arteries that supply the heart is highly prevalent in the US with an estimated 20.5 million Americans with the diagnosis 2. Among women, it is often difficult to recognize the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and can often get overlooked1
Dr. Washington looks forward to working with and delivering care to the patients within the southern Maryland area. She truly believes knowledge is power and arming patients with the knowledge and tools necessary to guide them through their journey to better cardiovascular health.
Dr. Washington-Plaskett completed her medical school training at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN.
Featured Health Professionals
Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Meet Periodontist, Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Dr. Smith is a dentist who also specializes in treatment of gum disease, cosmetic smile enhancement procedures, and dental implants to replace teeth that are missing. Although no one likes to go to the dentist, he strives to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. He strongly believes that value and comfort is an important part of quality dental care. The right to choose a dentist and provider of care is an important freedom. Referrals from patients and friends of the practice are welcome. We also work closely on referral from your family dentist, but a referral is not required to visit our office. Everyone that is interested in keeping their teeth for a lifetime should see a periodontist for screening.
Dr. Smith’s colleagues describe him as a gentle, easy-going person that provides expert care to patients. People come from near and far to experience the comfort of his office and patient-oriented team. He has been consistently voted by his peers a Top Dentist in Washingtonian Magazine , and Northern Virginia Magazine
WHAT TO EXPECT ON A VISIT
WITH DR. SMITH:
Dr. Smith says that “From the first phone call you will be treated with care and concern for your unique dental condition. Every question you have ever had about your dental health will be covered as well as any financial considerations you may have. It is my goal to care for each and every person that comes through my doors and to exceed your expectations from a dental office. I promise to always give you honesty and accuracy when it comes to your treatment. I will never start treatment without your full knowledge, understanding, and acceptance of your condition.”
Degrees, Training and Certificates:
Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the University of California, Los Angeles 1981. General Practice in the U.S. Air Force Dental Corps.. Successfully completed three additional years of advanced training in the specialty of Periodontics, Dental Anesthesia and Implants in 1992 at the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio and Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. Retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1996. Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and in DOCS, a sedation organization for dentists.
Dr. Weiss received his Bachelor of Arts from University of Virginia, and his Doctor of Medicine from McGill University. His Post-Graduate Training Includes: University of Hawaii Internship in Medicine, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital (Boston) Residency in Internal Medicine, Board Certified Internal Medicine, Fellow American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.
Practice Philosophy: Combining the best of conventional treatments, natural approaches and alternative strategies.
Areas of Interest:
• Expert treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
• Nutritional strategies and weight loss, including HCG protocol
• Bio-Te Hormone Replacement
• Addressing thyroid problems and adrenal fatigue using natural and holistic therapies
• Intravenous therapies
• Combining the best of conventional and holistic therapies to address chronic and complex health care issues
• Anti-Aging protocols using Botox, Dysport and Peptide Therapy
Kim has had a wide variety of experience as a nurse, from ICU service to Oncology nursing, and is an expert with IV therapies and is committed to her patients being comfortable, safe and well informed.
Kim has been utilizing IV therapies very safely and therapeutically with over 25 years as an IV Nurse, has been administering nutritional and integrative IV’s in many different settings and practices throughout Maryland and Massachusetts. She is able to tailor these therapies to meet individual needs and requirements. Many people can benefit from these therapies and they can jumpstart your road to recovery and health.
Treatments Offered Include:
• IV Therapies: Vitamin C Drips, Meyers Cocktails, Glutathione, Mineral IV's,
• Alpha Lipoic Drips. B12/MIC injections
• Botox/Dysport
• Morpheus8, Votiva (vaginal rejuvenation, especially for urinary incontinence)
• Traditional Microneedling treatments
• VIPeels including NEW BODY PEELS
• Heidelberg PH Capsule Testing
Featured Health Professionals
Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier
Renee Bovelle, MD Ophthalmology Meet Dr. Bovelle
Naima Jacobs-El, MD Ophthalmology
Board Certified, Ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Degrees, Training and Certificates: UCLA Medical School;
Yale University Hospital for Residency; Louisiana State University for Cornea and Refractive Fellowship
Professional Memberships/Associations: American
Academy of Ophthalmology; American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery; International Society of Refractive Surgery
Areas of Interest: All laser custom LASIK; Cataract Surgery; Botox; Dermal Fillers; Cornea Comprehensive Ophthalmology
Practice Philosophy: Envision Eye and Laser is committed to delivering superior ophthalmic care with state-of-the-art technology and patient education in a caring, compassionate environment. We cater to a diverse population of adults and work with your primary care physician to improve the quality of your overall health and life. Your best vision is our focus.
301-805-4664
12200 Annapolis Road Suite #116
Glenn Dale, MD 20769
EnvisionEyeandLaser.com
Dr. Jacobs-El
Board Certified, Ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Dr. Jacobs-El is a dedicated ophthalmologist committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered eye care. With a strong foundation in medical ophthalmology, Dr. Jacobs-El brings extensive training and experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of eye conditions, from routine vision concerns to complex ocular diseases.
Known for her gentle approach, Dr. Jacobs-El prioritizes making each patient feel comfortable, informed, and confident in their care. She believes that building trust is essential to achieving the best outcomes and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and respected.
Dr. Jacobs-El earned her medical degree from Howard University School of Medicine and completed her residency training in ophthalmology at Howard University Hospital, followed by dual fellowship training in medical retina and uveitis at the National Institutes of Health National Eye Institute. She has also contributed to advancing medical research at the National Institutes of Health and proudly served veterans for several years within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affair. She remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of advancements in eye care and incorporates the latest evidence-based practices into her work.
Now proudly serving the Envision Eye & Laser Center community, Dr. Jacobs-El is passionate about helping our patients preserve and improve their vision while enhancing their overall quality of life.
Chinese Medicine For Chronic Low Back Pain
By Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc
Wholelife Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Center
What Is Lower Back Pain?
Four out of five adults in the U.S. experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. Acute back pain lasts from a few days to a few weeks, but chronic back pain may last more
than three months. There are many causes of lower back pain, but the most common causes are muscle strain and degenerative disc disease.
According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, external factors such as extreme weather, injury, and excessive sexual activity, can lead to the block of Qi and blood, which is thought to result in low back pain if
Guest professor, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Chief TCM Physician, WFCMS; M.S. in TCM, Beijing University of TCM PhD in integrated medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences Fellowship, Georgetown University & Children’s National Medical Center 3 patents, 8 books of TCM, 30 papers, 30+ years of experience in TCM
Low back pain • eczema • arthritis • allergies • cough • insomnia • paralysis obesity • nephritis • hepatitis • infertility • PMS • side effects of cancer treatment 416 Hungerford Drive, #300 Rockville, MD 20850 5022 Dorsey Hall Drive, #101 Ellicott City, MD 21042
Doesn't Your Child Deserve the Best?
the block of Qi and blood is located at the lower back.Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) includes Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, scrapping, tui-na, qi-gong and exercises. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are the main parts of TCM.
Can Acupuncture
Control Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain limits activity and is the second most frequent reason for physician visits. Previous research shows widespread use of acupuncture for lower back pain. One meta-analysis is designed to assess acupuncture’s effectiveness for treating lower back pain. The 33 randomized, controlled trials that met inclusion criteria were sub-grouped according to acute or chronic pain, style of acupuncture, and type of control group used. For the primary outcome of short-term relief of chronic pain, the meta-
analyses showed that acupuncture is significantly more effective than sham treatment and no additional treatment. The study concluded that acupuncture may effectively relieve chronic low back pain.
How Many/Often Acupuncture Sessions Do I Need?
Usually, 1-3 sessions for acute back pain; 6-16 sessions for chronic back pain, depending on the situation. Twice a week is recommended for a better treatment result.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is a safe treatment. It may occasionally cause dizziness, local internal bleeding, dermatitis, nerve damage, and/or increased pain (especially when the acupuncturist is not well-trained).
Keeping Our Children Safe
By Janet V. Johnson, MD Loving Care Pediatrics
Here are eight things you can do to protect your child from getting injuries:
• Supervise children at all times and intervene when there is inappropriate behavior such as pushing or shoving.
• Make sure playground equipment is age appropriate. Maximum fall height should be five feet for preschool-aged children and seven feet for school aged children.
• Swing seats should be made of plastic or rubber. Metal or wood should be avoided.
• Avoid any equipment that has openings that could entrap a child’s head.
• Make sure you can clearly see your children on the playground.
• Remove tripping hazards such as tree stumps, or rocks.
• Avoid playgrounds with asphalt, concrete, grass, and solid surfaces under the equipment. Look for surfaces of hardwood fiber, mulch chips, pea gravel, fine sand or rubber to a depth of at least nine inches.
• Wear appropriate protective gear during sports activities (for example, shin guards for soccer, a hard-shell helmet for baseball or football, body padding for ice hockey, and helmet when on a bike or skateboarding).
Overall, summertime play for children can be great fun. But it’s important to keep in mind prevention strategies and safety tips.
Pool Safety
Here are five tips for keeping your child safe before heading to
Please
“Children Safe,” page 55
Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc
Managing Pain the Mindful Way
By Dr. Tiffany Daniel Live To Day Wellness
Pain is something many of us live with – sometimes quietly, sometimes daily, and sometimes in ways that others cannot see. Whether it stems from injury, chronic conditions, stress, or trauma, pain has a way of affecting not just the body, but the mind and spirit as well.
So the question becomes: How do we manage pain in a way that supports the whole person?
The answer begins with awareness.
Pain is not just physical. It is often connected to tension, inflammation, emotional stress, and even unresolved experiences. This is why a holistic approach – addressing the body, mind, and lifestyle – is essential for long-term relief.
Let’s start with movement. While it may seem counterintuitive, gentle and consistent movement is one of the most effective ways to manage pain. Activities such as walking, stretching, yoga, and lowimpact strength training help increase circulation, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility. The key is to move within your ability, not beyond it.
Next is nutrition. What you eat can either fuel inflammation or help reduce it. Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. These foods contain anti-inflammatory properties
that support joint health and overall wellness. At the same time, try to limit processed foods, excess sugar, and fried items that may contribute to increased discomfort.
Now let’s talk about something often overlooked – the mind-body connection.
Stress has a direct impact on how we experience pain. When the body is under constant stress, muscles tighten, inflammation increases, and pain can intensify. This is where mindfulness practices come in.
Take a few moments each day to pause. Practice deep breathing. Sit in stillness. Engage in activities such as meditation, journaling, gardening, or even quiet reflection. These practices calm the nervous system and allow the body to release tension naturally.
In some cases, incorporating therapeutic movement
programs such as yoga for trauma or guided mindfulness sessions can provide additional support. These approaches not only help reduce pain but also improve emotional wellbeing and resilience.
And finally, don’t ignore the importance of support and guidance. Work with your healthcare provider, and when possible, seek out wellness programs that address both physical and mental health.
Pain may be part of your story, but it does not have to define it.
When you begin to listen to your body, nourish it properly, and care for your mind, you create space for healing. Start small. Stay consistent. Be patient with yourself. Because managing pain isn’t just about relief – it’s about restoring your quality of life, one mindful step at a time.
Located in scenic Southern Maryland, Studio 5 Hair Gallery is well known in the medical community for customized solutions for hair loss. We provide the finest synthetic and human hair wigs, hair extensions, and top-of-the-head hairpieces. For over 12 years, Studio 5 Hair Gallery has served its clients with compassion and excellence. call 301.884.3553 for your appointment today! Please mention this Flier when setting up your appointment.
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AI Is Already Recommending Doctors.
to Artificial Intelligence tools, like ChatGPT, to research and choose healthcare providers. AI doesn’t guess – it reflects the signals already present across the web. Those
Customized Beauty Treatments
COSMETIC SURGERY
• Breast Augmentation
• Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
• Liposuction
• Hair Transplants
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• Hair Removal
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WELLNESS SERVICES
• Bioidentical Hormones (BHRT)
• ED Treatment for Men
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4407 Willard Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Across from the Friendship Heights Metro)
Essential Oils and Acupuncture
Essential oils are an ancient and recently popular modality used in holistic healing. The tradition of using essential oils in healing can be found around the world in many ancient cultures. Recently there has been a surge in the interest of using essential oils for physical health and emotional well being.
Acupuncture and essential oils make a wonderful combination. The use of oils on acupuncture points and meridians can create a profound
healing experience. Each oil has an energetic quality and when they are paired with the appropriate acupuncture point they can create a powerful healing response.
The essential oils can be used to relax, stimulate, warm or cool. For example, lavender, a well known essential oil, can be used for a variety of ailments. Lavender has a pleasant pungent odor and when used on the appropriate acupuncture points it can calm headaches, relieve muscle spasms and alleviate anxiety. The quality of the Lavender essential oil is relaxing and cooling. It moves the physiological symptom through the acupuncture point and meridian as opposed to suppressing it.
The essential oil can be applied on an acupuncture point during an
Center - This is a program that provides support from peers for both mental health and substance use disorders for people actively working on their recovery.
acupuncture treatment. A small drop of oil is applied topically on one or more points as part of the acupuncture treatment. Essential oil blends can also be custom made for a client so that they may use the oils at home to continue the treatment. The acupuncturist can create a custom blend of several different oils specific to the client’s health issue and then the client can apply the oil twice a day for usually two weeks.
It is very important to work with an acupuncturist who has received proper training in using essential oils in relationship with acupuncture. It is also important to use essential oils that have been made using the highest standards. The quality of the oil is paramount to receiving a good effect from the treatment.
The Impact Of Mental Illness
By Joyce Abramson, RNMS Charles County Freedom Landing
The impact on people diagnosed with a serious mental illness is devastating. The devastation often is shared by family and friends.
Impairment refers to the impact physically and psychologically. There is increasing evidence that there is a neurobiological aspect to severe mental illness. Whether the source is genetic, viral, or a combination of factors, it results in physical and psychological symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, paranoia. Symptoms may be influenced by the other areas and the psychological structure of the person.
People experiencing impairment and its symptoms often explain it as a loss or disruption of self. There is a disconnectedness to who you are. How to rebuild the sense of self is fundamental. Recovery requires building a functional sense of self that
supports needs, wants, aspirations, and confronts the effects of stigma. Other interventions include coping strategies and satisfying social relationships. Dysfunction addresses the inability to carry out the activities of life considered normal to us as human beings. Tasks such as walking, thinking, or making a meal may be difficult. The cause may be the symptoms previously mentioned, medication side effects or lack of confidence resulting from the disruption of self or stigma. Skills training, support, and rehabilitation improve the levels of dysfunction. As any of these areas of impact improve, the other areas appear to improve as well.
Disability implies a broader concept than dysfunction and limits the ability to perform larger life roles such as working, having a family, and maintaining an apartment. Successful rehabilitation in other areas will also effect the disability in a positive manner.
Disadvantage refers to the lack of opportunity to make a life for one’s self. The cause is often stigma, discrimination, and poverty. Normally, disadvantage comes from outside the person, from a society’s biases and perceptions. It further erodes the fragile sense of self that has been effected by impairment, dysfunction, and disability. Advocacy and education that can influence feelings and beliefs help to reduce disadvantage.
By Brittney de Vicq, MAc, LAc West Annapolis Acupuncture
Hammertoes
Pain Of the Small Toes
By Ademuyiwa Adetunji, DPM
Largo Foot & Ankle Health
A hammertoe is a contracture or bending of one or both joints of any but the big toe. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved, but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes, known as the lesser digits. Hammertoes are more common in females than males.
Symptoms
• Pain upon pressure at the top of the bent toe from footwear.
• The formation of corns on the top of the joint.
• Redness and swelling at the joint contracture.
• Restricted or painful motion of the toe joint.
• Pain in the ball of the foot at the base of the affected toe.
A hammertoe is formed due to an abnormal balance of the muscles in the toes. This abnormal balance causes increased pressures on the tendons and joints of the toe, leading to its contracture. Heredity and trauma can also lead to the formation of a hammertoe.
Arthritis is another factor, because the balance around the toe in people with arthritis is so disrupted that a hammertoe may develop. Wearing shoes that are too tight and cause the toes to squeeze can also be cause for a hammertoe to form.
What Can You Do For Relief?
• Apply a commercial, non-medi-
Please see “Hammertoes,” page 55
At Kensington Pharmacy, in addition to having your prescriptions filled with speed and accuracy, you will experience one of the best services and notice the difference.
With 14 employees, Kensington Pharmacy gives a special attention to each customer that they deserve. Stop by and experience the difference.
Are You In Pain?
You Are Not Alone
Submitted by Kensington Pharmacy
You don’t need to live with constant pain. Although chronic pain rarely goes away completely, your health care team has many options to make your pain more bearable.
No Gain From Pain
When it comes to pain, some people believe that they should “grin and bear it.” Others feel that their health care team isn’t interested in their pain.
In truth, poorly managed pain is bad for your health and can lead to other problems.
• Pain causes harmful changes to your body.
• Untreated pain can lead to anger, irritability, depression, and poor sleep. It can make the quality of your life worse.
• Persistent pain affects your relationships with family and friends, and your ability to do your job.
The longer you wait to address
your pain, the more difficult it becomes to treat. Your first step is to find a health care team that can help you. Finding the Right Healthcare Team For You
Not all health care providers are well trained to assess and treat pain. Others may have personal biases against treating pain.
To find a treatment that works, you may need to interview several health care providers. Look for people who:
• Believe your reports of pain. (Don’t work with anyone who tells you “it’s all in your head.”)
• Have experience treating pain.
• Thoroughly explain to you the risks and benefits of various treatments.
• Listen to your questions and make sure you understand their answers.
• Regularly assess your pain and monitor your progress.
• Refer you to a specialist if you are not getting adequate relief.
Please see “Are You In Pain?,” page 55
Owned by a local family of pharmacists The Tunc Family: From Left: Melike, Pinar, Huseyin and Zeynep
• Prescription Refills via On-line or Phone 24 hours a day
• Flu Shots, Shingles and Pneumavac Vaccines
• Prescription Plans including Medicare Part-D and Part-B, CVS-Caremark
• Transfer Of Your Prescriptions
• Compounding Specialists
• Wide Vitamin Selection
• Blisterpacking For Assisted Living Facilities
• BOIRON Homeopathic Remedies
• Greeting Cards, Select Books and Gifts
• Wide Home Health Care Selection Wheelchairs, Canes, Walkers, Medical Legsupport, Arthritis and Sport Aids, Bath Aids
• Toys and Books for Children
• And More
Holistic Wellness Center
(located inside of Hol-Body Yoga Studio)
Family Wellness Services
• Natural and Herbal Remedy Consults
• Family Planning
• Childbirth Education
• Natural Healing Education
Women’s Health/Womb Wellness
• Birth/Postpartum Doula Services
• Fertility Support
• Womb Meditation
• Womb Massage
• Vagi/Yeni Steams
Spiritual and Mental Wellness
• Etheric Touch Sessions
• Reiki Sessions
Coming Soon:
• House Blessings
• Divinations
• Doula Training started October 2025 for in person and virtual classes
Shirleta Henson McKann 443-265-9393
319 Crain Highway S. Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Open on Tuesdays by appointment only
Facebook: DReM’s Legacy Holistic Wellness Center
Instagram: @drems.legacy.holistic.wellness
The Sleep–Pain Cycle
How Poor Sleep Intensifies Chronic Pain
Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists
Sleep and pain are closely linked — and when one is disrupted, the other often follows. For individuals living with chronic pain, especially older adults, poor sleep is more than a nuisance. It can intensify discomfort, interfere with healing, and make everyday activities more difficult.
Research has shown that inadequate or disrupted sleep can lower pain tolerance and increase sensitivity. This means that the same underlying condition — whether arthritis, neuropathy, or another chronic issue — may feel more painful after a night of poor rest. Over time, this can lead to a harmful cycle: pain disrupts sleep, and insufficient sleep worsens pain.
One reason for this cycle lies in the body’s inflammatory response. Sleep deprivation can increase levels of certain chemicals associated with inflammation, such as cytokines.
These chemical messengers can amplify pain signals, making discomfort feel more severe. In addition, poor sleep affects how the brain processes pain, reducing its ability to modulate painful stimuli.
This connection can also affect mental health. When people are in pain and not sleeping well, they may experience increased anxiety, irritability, or depression — all of which can further interfere with both sleep and pain perception.
Breaking the cycle requires a multifaceted approach. Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Keeping a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends, helps regulate the body’s internal clock. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine — such as dimming lights, avoiding screens, or listening to calming music — can prepare the body and mind for rest.
Please see “Sleep–Pain Cycle,” page 55
with sleep problems. At Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment to help you achieve restful, healthy sleep.
By Toni Greene, Owner Happy Hour Yoga on Zoom!
Hypnosis is a very useful tool to use in alleviating or diminishing
Pain and Hypnosis
pain in the body by at least 50% to not having pain at all. Hypnosis is a process whereby you are lead into a deep state of relaxation. In this state of deep relaxation you become aware of the pain. In hypnosis you are put in a hypnotic trance. In this trance it is suggested that you become aware of your breathing; breathing is emphasized to help regulate your sympathetic nervous system.
The sympathetic nervous system is the system in the body that serves
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to accelerate the heart rate, constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure. It also becomes out of balance because of our unawareness of our thoughts, and actions. Pain and disease in the body has a lot to do with the imbalances in the body due to our diet and lifestyle. Mental or physical stress and an unhealthy diet, including refined sugars, fried food and over indulgence in food and drink, can cause pain in the body as well. This is a major cause of inflammation in the body that causes pain.
Acidic foods, and left over or stale foods, build up toxins in the body and can cause pain and inflammation in the joints that cause joint pain such as arthritis, burning sensation, swollen ankles, knees, and legs. Hypnosis will help you through the hypnotic suggestion so that you are mindful of the foods you eat and the thoughts we think. Stress in the body and mind is intimately related with causing pain in the body.
We use hypnosis in controlling the thoughts to manage or alleviate the pain in the body. With positive suggestions to you in a hypnotic state (trance), you will be reminded to be
mindful of the new suggested way of eating with awareness, and you will realize as a result of awareness the lack of pain in the body. Hypnosis is a useful, natural tool that can be used to manage pain, stop over eating, smoking, phobias and more. Hypnosis is used to ease the pain of surgery or excessive pills taken for pain management.
When the conscious part of the brain is temporarily relaxed the person focuses on relaxing and letting go of distracting thoughts, thereby allowing the mind to slow down the pulse and respiration. When the pulse and respiration is slowed, the heart rate and respiration is then slowed causing relief in the body and mind and the pain is released or just simply gone.
When using hypnosis for pain management there may need to be a series of sessions. There are different levels of pain, and discomfort we carry in the body and mind. The sessions can vary depending on the severity of the discomfort in the body and mind.
Hypnosis is a pain-free technique
Please see “Hypnosis,” page 55
Gum Disease and Soft Tissue Management
Submitted by E. Taylor Meiser, DDS Lighthouse Family Dentistry
Soft Tissue Management is a non-surgical approach to control periodontal disease. There is no cure for periodontal disease; it can only be managed or controlled. What Is Soft Tissue Management?
Soft Tissue Management is an individualized plan to eliminate infection of the gums and root surfaces. An appropriate plan will be chosen by
your dentist, hygienist and you. The hygienist will perform the treatments to help eliminate infection, make recommendations to help you more effectively clean your teeth daily, and guide you through the efforts to achieve and maintain oral health.
What Is Root Planing?
Root planing is the treatment of the diseased root surfaces below the gum line. A routine prophy (cleaning) emphasizes cleaning teeth above the gum line in a generally healthy mouth. Root planing focuses on eliminating tartar and plaque below the gum and detoxify the root surfaces where the disease occurs.
What Does Your Dentist Hope To Accomplish With Soft Tissue Management?
• Gums that do not bleed. Healthy gums do not bleed.
• Fresher breath and taste
• Gums that are not red, swollen, or
Please see “Gum Disease,” page 54
Considering Neck Lift Surgery?
Reduce Signs of Aging and Treat Sagging Skin!
A neck lift can be performed for men and women of varying ages who are often frustrated by changes of the appearance of their neck and jawline. Depending on your age, a neck lift can be a short one-hour procedure to remove fat or a 3-hour procedure to remove fat, visible neck bands, and excess skin.
Neck Lift Surgery Can:
Remove Excess Skin (Cervicoplasty)
Liposuction to Remove Excess Fat
Remove or Alter Neck Muscles (Platysmaplasty)
Liposuction can be performed alone or with surgical removal of the fat under the chin through a small incision under the chin.
In patients with vertical bands in the neck, a platysmaplasty can be performed to reduce the appearance of the bands.
Sometimes a chin implant is recommended to improve the overall contour and help with excess skin.
EQUITY FOR ALL
Do I Really Need Surgery For My Back Pain?
Submitted by All Star Pain Management
Most back pain improves without surgery—understanding your options is the first step toward recovery.
Back pain is incredibly common, and for many people, the first thought is: Is this serious? Am I going to need surgery? The good news is that most back pain does not require surgery. In many cases, symptoms improve with the right combination of time, movement, and targeted care.
If your pain lingers for more than a few weeks, keeps coming back, or starts to interfere with your daily routine—work, workouts, even sleep—it may be time to look a little deeper. A more comprehensive evaluation can help identify what’s actually driving your pain and what to do about it.
A function-focused approach, often used in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R), looks at how your body moves as a whole—not just where it hurts. The spine is made up of discs, joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves, and pain can come from any of these. Common issues like disc problems, arthritis, or muscle strain can sound intimidating, but many improve with conservative, movementbased care.
Surgery is typically reserved for more serious situations, such as worsening weakness, significant nerve
compression, or structural instability. Emergency symptoms—like loss of bowel or bladder control—require immediate attention, but these cases are rare.
For most people, treatment starts with simple, effective strategies: physical therapy, targeted exercise, activity modification, and, when needed, medications. Image-guided injections can also help calm inflammation and reduce nerve irritation, making it easier to stay active while healing.
There are also options that fall between traditional care and surgery. Minimally invasive procedures can address specific pain sources with less downtime. In some cases, regenerative medicine techniques may be considered to support the body’s natural healing response in areas like discs, joints, or soft tissue.
One important thing to keep in mind: what shows up on an MRI doesn’t always match how you feel. Many people have “abnormal” findings without pain, which is why your symptoms and physical exam matter just as much as imaging.
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t just to fix a scan—it’s to help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to the life you enjoy. Taking a stepwise, less-invasive approach first is often the most effective path forward, with surgery reserved for when it’s truly necessary.
a ll- on-Four
surgical sites and suturing all the incisions. Then you’ll be taken to a recovery room where you can relax and take time to wake up from the anesthesia.
From page 16
Schedule a consultation with an All-On-Four provider. It’s the best way to find out how dental implants can change your life.
F ibromyalgia
First, getting a good full night of restorative sleep is absolutely critical. Many people with fibromyalgia will say it has been years since they have had a decent night’s sleep. Using a combination of lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, herbal formulas and prescription medications can get people sleeping which is often the first step in getting well.
Correcting the common nutritional and hormonal deficiencies of this condition is critical. And it is important to see a physician who recognizes that the “normal” laboratory reference ranges for nutrients and hormones may not be optimal, especially for people who are struggling with their health. Optimizing thyroid, testosterone and estrogen status may go a long way to restoring health and vitality.
Gastrointestinal problems are often present and must be addressed,
Follow-up
style practices in terms of daily nutrition, exercise routine and adjustments in personal environment in order to facilitate weight loss. Routine follow-up visits provide a means of accountability in those efforts.
Monitoring Weight Loss
Weight loss after bariatric surgery can be very rapid for some patients or it can be slower than expected for others. Routine visits help to ensure that weight loss is occurring in a healthy manner and also helps to identify factors that may be preventing the desired weight loss results.
Assessing Nutritional Status
A protein-based diet with vitamin supplements is very important after weight loss surgery. There is a significant risk of malnutrition due to the small size of the stomach and associated changes in digestion and nutrient absorption. Routine followup visits allow for assessment of malnutrition based on clinical exam and specific blood tests that are done at intervals in the post-op period.
Assessing Change
In Health Conditions
Many obesity-related medical problems improve with bariatric sur-
From page 17
both to enhance nutrient absorption and to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Bacterial and yeast overgrowth is common as are food allergies, including the under-recognized phenomenon of celiac disease and gluten intolerance. There are relatively simple ways to treat these issues that make a big difference for people.
And finally pain must be controlled. For many patients pain becomes a sort of vicious cycle, with pain causing muscle spasm, sleep disruption and inflammation, which only causes more pain. There are both natural and prescription methods for effectively addressing chronic pain.
In short, while fibromyalgia is complex and often misunderstood, a comprehensive, individualized approach can lead to meaningful improvement and a return to a more active, fulfilling life.
From page 21
gery. It is important to have close medical follow-up to adjust medications or even eliminate medications for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Some conditions will also require changes in equipment and treatment settings, eg., sleep apnea. Routine follow-up also allows monitoring to identify the potential for recurrence of any health problems.
Assessing Mental Challenges
There are many mental challenges after bariatric surgery including changes with the relationship with food, emotional coping mechanisms, changes in interpersonal relationships, changes in personal attention from others, and dealing with the physical body changes. Routine follow-up visits provide a forum to discuss these issues and consider potential solutions.
Surveillance For Complications
Although most patients do well after bariatric surgery, complications can and still do occur. It is important to know the symptoms of potential complications and have medical evaluation to appropriately diagnose and treat any such problems.
HealtH y Smile
needs of each patient. Whether you’re undergoing a complex procedure or a routine dental treatment, your peace of mind is our priority.
Patient-Centric Approach: At Total Dental Care, we prioritize your comfort with a patient-focused approach, offering amenities such as heated chairs with massage features, ensuring a relaxed experience. Our team is dedicated to fostering a positive dental experience, em-
pain
connected. When one system is struggling, others are often affected. Poor sleep can make pain feel worse. Chronic inflammation can increase fatigue and stiffness. Stress can intensify muscle tension, headaches, and digestive discomfort. This is why simply masking symptoms often does not provide lasting relief.
An integrative approach to pain management focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes. This may include evaluating hormone balance, nutrition, sleep, activity level, and stress. Anti-inflammatory foods, gentle movement, strength-building exercise, improved sleep habits, and stress reduction can all play a role in helping the body heal.
From page 12
phasizing communication and education to empower patients in making informed decisions about their oral health.
Total Dental Care stands as a beacon of excellence in dental health, providing total solutions for patients seeking comprehensive, detail-oriented care. Experience the difference with our wide range of services and patient-focused approach, ensuring your journey to a healthy smile is seamless and satisfying.
Movement is especially important. Many people avoid exercise because they fear it will make pain worse, but the right kind of movement often helps reduce stiffness and improve circulation. Walking, stretching, yoga, and low-impact strength training can help support joints, muscles, and overall function without overloading the body. Pain should never be ignored or accepted as “normal.” Whether it is persistent headaches, joint pain, back pain, or unexplained aches and fatigue, paying attention to what your body is telling you is the first step toward feeling better. Relief is possible – but lasting relief begins by understanding why the pain is there in the first place.
ForeFoot Surgery
relieve the symptoms, your podiatric physician will then decide on the basis of your symptoms, and whether surgical treatment is appropriate.
Bunionette (Tailor’s Bunion)
A protuberance of bone at the outside of the foot behind the fifth (small) toe, the bunionette (or small bunion), is caused by a variety of conditions including heredity, faulty biomechanics (the way one walks) or trauma, to name a few. Pain is often associated with this deformity, making shoes very uncomfortable.
If severe and conservative treatments fail to improve the symptoms of this condition, surgical repair may
From page 19
be suggested. Your podiatric physician will develop a surgical plan specific to the condition present.
Bone Spurs
A bone spur is an overgrowth of bone, as a result of pressure, trauma or reactive stress of a ligament or tendon. This growth can cause pain and even restrict motion of a joint, depending on its location and size. Surgical treatment and procedure is based on the size, location and symptoms of the bone spur. Your podiatric physician will determine the surgical method best suited for your condition.
Article provided by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
• Knowing how to effectively maintain good oral hygiene
• Reduced pocket depths
• Control of periodontal disease What Does Your Dentist Need From You, the Patient, To Make This Treatment a Success?
• Completion of the periodontal therapy prescribed by your dentist
• Thoroughly cleaning all tooth surfaces two times a day
• Maintenance of regular re-care visits
For patients with adult periodontitis, supportive three-month re-care is not an option – but a requirement for successful therapy. Your re-care interval will be determined by your hygienist and dentist to best manage your oral health.
a re you i n pain?
When you interview healthcare providers, ask these questions:
• Do you have experience treating my condition?
• How would you describe effective pain management?
• What treatment options are available for me?
• How will you select my treatment plan?
• How much relief can I expect to receive from these treatments?
• What side effects should I look for? How can I manage them?
• What are the short-term and longterm outlooks for my condition?
Once you have found a good team, the next step is yours. Not everyone is comfortable talking about pain, but your team needs accurate information to treat you. Provide these details:
• How long you have had pain.
• Where the pain hurts the worst.
• What treatments you have tried on your own, and how they have worked for you.
• What makes the pain better or worse.
• How the pain feels. For example, is it sharp, dull, or achy?
• How the pain interferes with your activities, including work, dealing with family and friends, and ability to care for yourself.
Once your healthcare team understands your pain, a treatment plan is the next step. Your doctor may suggest medication. Some medications are available over-the-counter.
Others, you can only get with a prescription. Doctors rely on several families of drugs to treat pain:
• NSAIDs – used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation. Aspirin and ibuprofen are both NSAIDs.
• Acetaminophen – also used to treat mild to moderate pain.
• Opioids – prescribed to people who have moderate to severe pain.
In addition to medications, other treatments such as massage, physical therapy, relaxation therapy, and behavioral and psychological therapy may be helpful.
Sleep – pain CyCle
For those with pain that interferes with falling or staying asleep, gentle movement during the day, such as walking or stretching, may help reduce discomfort at night. Mindfulness practices and relaxation techniques, including deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, have also been shown to improve both sleep quality and pain management.
It’s important not to ignore ongoing sleep disturbances. If pain is
CannabiS
simplest of chores seem overwhelming and exhausting. Fibromyalgia is a complex neurological disorder that is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood. More than five million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia, 80-90% being women. Some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia include chronic pain, joint stiffness, chronic fatigue, insomnia, general weakness, headaches, brain fog, digestive issues, and anxiety.
HypnoSiS
used in healing the body and mind. Hypnosis only requires your participation and willingness and it will
H ammertoe S
cated hammertoe pad around the bony prominence of the hammertoe. This will decrease pressure on the area.
• Wear a shoe with a deep toe box.
• If the hammertoe becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling.
• Avoid heels more than 2 inches tall.
• A loose-fitting pair of shoes can also help protect the foot while reducing pressure on the affected toe, making walking a little easier until a visit to your podiatrist can be arranged.
• Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. Children should have their shoes properly fitted on a regular basis, as their feet can of-
ten outgrow their shoes rapidly.
• See your podiatric physician if pain persists.
Treatment options include changing footwear, padding and trimming the corns and calluses, custom orthotic footwear or devices, anti-inflammatory medications and splinting the affected toe. Surgery is recommended in some severe cases. The treatment options vary with the type and severity of each hammertoe, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important to avoid surgery. Podiatric medical attention should be sought at the first indication of pain and discomfort because, if left untreated, hammertoes tend to become rigid, making a nonsurgical treatment less of an option.
CH ilDren Sa F e
the pool this summer, as drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children younger than five in the United States:
From page 48
keeping someone up at night or sleep problems are making pain worse, a healthcare provider should be consulted. Addressing both issues together — rather than in isolation — can lead to more effective treatment and a better quality of life.
Understanding the relationship between sleep and pain is a powerful step toward better rest, less discomfort, and more active, fulfilling days.
From page 4
What Can Cannabis Do For Fibromyalgia?
Medical cannabis can be very useful in managing pain. Medical cannabis can help you sleep, increase your appetite, work against pain, and reduce nausea. One of the most common symptoms fibromyalgia patients have is depression and anxiety, and medical marijuana can help improve moods and decrease these symptoms. Cannabis is an effective treatment for many with this complex disorder.
From page 50
happen, the pain will be gone from the body, or three degrees milder, or more. Give it a try.
• Swim lessons. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports swimming lessons for most children four years and older. The decision to enroll your child in swimming lessons should be based on the child’s developmental readiness.
• Never leave children alone in or near the pool or spa, even for a moment.
From page 38
• Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as “floaties.”
• Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult (preferably one who knows how to swim and perform CPR) should be within arm’s length, providing “touch supervision.”
• Remove all toys from the pool after use so children aren’t tempted to reach for them.
Now is the time to plan for family summer activities, many of which may require an annual health visit prior to participation.
Virtual p H ySiCal
receiving a personalized consultation from a board-certified radiologist, you can get a better understanding of your individual health risks and how to address them. This can include implementing treatment plans and changing behaviors to help you live longer, healthier lives.
One specific type of virtual physical is the virtual colonoscopy. While traditional colonoscopies can be uncomfortable and invasive, a virtual colonoscopy is much simpler and less invasive. Prior to the scan, you will need to properly cleanse your bowels, which can be done with a bowel prep kit purchased over-thecounter at your local pharmacy. During the scan, a small enema tip will be inserted into your rectum and your colon will be filled with air to visualize your bowels. The only discomfort
From page 4
may be a feeling of fullness due to the air, and the scan itself takes only about ten minutes.
It’s important to note that virtual colonoscopies are contraindicated in certain situations, including rectal bleeding, history of diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, or those who have had a recent colonoscopy with positive findings.
The virtual physical is a revolutionary approach to preventative medicine that can help you lead a longer, healthier, and happier life. By being your own health advocate and taking a proactive approach to your health, you can catch potentially serious medical issues early on and personalize your health care. Consider talking to your doctor about whether a virtual physical is right for you.
HEALTH DIRECTORY
ACUPUNCTURE
Eastern Medical Holistic Healing Center – Angel Wood – 240-755-5925 –www.Acupuncture4Wellness.Webs.com.
West Annapolis Acupuncture – Brittney de Vicq, LAc, MAc – 410-375-9716 – BrittneyAcupuncture.com – Annapolis, MD.
CHINESE MEDICINE & ACUPUNCTURE
Quansheng Lu, CMD, PhD, LAc – www.WholelifeHerb. com – 301-340-1066.
CHIROPRACTIC
Kovach Chiropractic & Wellness Center – Alicia Kovach, DC – 410-697-3566.
Metro Prosthetics – 301-4590999 – www.MetroProsthetics.com
RETIREMENT VILLAGE
Brooke Grove Retirement Village – 18100 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860 – 301-260-2320 – www.bgf.org.
SENIOR CARE
Chevy Chase Home Care. Help at a time you need it most. Any Ages. Any situations. Any shifts. MD, DC, VA – www.CHCHHomeCare. com – 202-374-1240.
St. Mary’s Nursing & Rehabilitation Center – 301-475-8000 – Leonardtown, MD – www. StMarysNursingCenter.com.
UROLOGY
AA Urology – IR Center , 600 Ridgely Avenue, Suite #120, Annapolis, MD – Annapolis , 600 Ridgely Avenue, Suites #222-223, Annapolis, MD – East Campus Surgery Center, 600 Ridgely Avenue, Suite #130, Annapolis, MD – AA Urology – Odenton, 1106 Annapolis Road, Suite #250, Odenton, MD.
UROLOGY
Glen Burnie , 305 Hospital Drive, Suite #303, Glen Burnie, MD – Bowie, 4201 Northview Drive, Suite #201, Bowie, MD – West Campus Surgery Center, 7855 Walker Drive, Suite #102, Greenbelt, MD –Greenbelt, 7855 Walker Drive, Suite #100, Greenbelt, MD. VETERANS
Charlotte Hall Veterans Home – 301-884-8171 – Waldorf, MD. WEIGHT LOSS
The Bariatric and Hernia Institute – Dr. Etwar McBean – 240-206-8506 – www.TBHInstitute.com.
YOGA
Toni’s Happy Hour Yoga and Holistic Wellness Center –Toni Greene, Owner – 301449-8664.
Ready To Get Healthy?
Your HEALTH Magazine publishes and distributes health information people need. We produce special sections to focus on particular health topics each month, and profiles of local health professionals. It Makes a Difference! Here’s what you can look forward to:
July MEET YOUR LOCAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS – Biographical profiles of a wide variety of local health professionals (Primary Care, Specialists, Integrative, Fitness, and more), highlighting their credentials, expertise, education, practice philosophy, areas of interest, and more!
August WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE and WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE – All the information women need about health, plus profiles to highlight the important women involved in all areas of healthcare – from physicians and nurses to pharmacists and office support staff. Will include Profiles from your Local Women Healthcare Professionals.
September DENTAL HEALTH plus WEIGHT CONTROL, EXERCISE AND NUTRITION – Dentists, Cosmetic Dentistry, TMJ, Periodontics, Orthodontics, Oral Surgeons, Endodontics, and more! Gyms, nutrition and diet plans, weight loss, surgical alternatives, to help affect America’s out-of-control weight problems. Will include Profiles and Information from your Local Dental Health and Exercise and Nutrition Professionals.
October CANCER AWARENESS and HEALTH TECHNOLOGY – Professionals to help with prevention, early detection and surviving cancer. Information for men and women, and their families, and professionals who can provide help! Will include Profiles from your Local Cancer Health Professionals.
November BEAUTY, SKIN CARE, & GORGEOUS SMILES – Dermatology, Aesthetics, Body Contouring, Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, the Latest Lasers, Anti-Aging, Weight Loss, Cosmetic Dentistry, Eye Wear, and more! Will include Profiles and Information from your Local Beauty and Dental Health Professionals.
If you are a Health Professional interested in including your
Medical Intake
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By Gena Schultheis, DDS Annapolis Green Dental
Your Mouth Is Connected To Nearly Every System In the Body
Most people think of dentistry as separate from the rest of their health. In reality, your mouth is connected to every system in the body — including digestion, airway health, inflammation, metabolism, immune function and even musculoskeletal balance.
The oral cavity is the beginning of the digestive tract. When bacteria are imbalanced or inflammation is present in the gums, the body responds systemically. Research continues to show links between the oral cavity and inflammation, diabetes and insulin control, chronic fatigue, immune system function, cardiac health, and conditions like Alzheimers.
Airway health is equally important. A restricted airway during sleep can contribute to snoring, poor oxygenation, disrupted sleep cycles, weight gain and metabolic imbalance. Addressing inflammation and airway function in the mouth can positively influence sleep quality, oxygen levels and overall energy.
Jaw alignment and bite instability may also contribute to neck pain, back pain, migraines and chronic tension. Tooth pain and sensitivity can decrease job performance and life enjoyment. Dental discomfort and high dental anxiety often keep people from seeking care, yet there are solutions available to relieve pain comfortably and support patients who experience fear or stress in the dental chair.
Material choices matter. Bio compatible all natural porcelain crowns and porcelain implants provide metal-free options for patients seeking holistic solutions. Plant and herbal cleanings free of toxins available.
Your smile is the one investment that shows up all day long. A healthy beautiful smile can give you more energy, confidence, opportunities and longevity. When patients restore their smiles, they often notice improvements not just in appearance, but in posture, communication, self-esteem and overall presence.
Holistic dentistry looks beyond the surface of the teeth. When the mouth is healthier, patients often report improved sleep, clearer thinking, better digestion, fewer headaches and increased overall vitality.
Oral wellness is not cosmetic. It is foundational.
Porcelain Implants, Crowns, Smile Makeovers, Easy Solutions To Straighten Teeth
1/2 Price Holistic Consult with Dr. G when you & a family member or friend schedule together!
Dr. G with our Laser For Tongue Tie Releases – Available With The Most Advanced Laser!
Signature Homemade Organic Tooth Tea –Fights Bad Breathe and Boosts Immune System!! FREE To You At Your Appt!! Take Some Home!!
Complimentary Expressed Red Light Therapy For new patients during cleaning at our Annapolis location
JOIN Dr. G Online!!
DOZENS of videos on our YouTube channel and Insta teaching you how to remineralize teeth, treat receding gums, breath better, decrease jaw pain, and even lose weight! In MINUTES A DAY.
Facebook: AnnapolisGreenDental
Instagram: @maryland_holistic_dentistry
YouTube: @marylandholisticdentistry
Check out our “Beyond the Smile” Podcast – Interviews exploring oral wellness and whole-body health.
