Sept, 2024

Living your healthiest life

FALL WELLNESS 🔆 PICKLEBALL SAFETY 🔆 WEIGHT LOSS DIARY

Fall health updates

BOOST YOUR WELLNESS THIS FALL! 

There's no doubt that autumn is a wonderful time of year. The leaves are changing color, the air is getting cooler, and pumpkin spice lattes are back on the menu! But autumn can also be a challenging time for our health. The change in season can disrupt our routines and make us more susceptible to colds and flu. That's why it's important to take some extra steps to stay healthy this autumn.

 

1. Schedule a check-up!

Autumn is a great time to ensure everyone in the family is up-to-date on their wellness visits. We use annual physicals to track existing conditions, monitor your health, update vaccinations, perform any necessary exams, and discuss risks for hereditary diseases that may run in your family. Scheduling your routine wellness exam in the fall alongside your child's appointment can help you remember to visit us at least once a year.

 

2. Make healthy food choices.

Making dietary changes can help lower your LDL cholesterol and prevent several chronic health conditions. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables will help your body stay strong and fight off infection. Make sure to include plenty of Vitamin C-rich foods in your diet, like oranges, broccoli, and kale. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks is also key to a healthy diet.

 

3. Stay active.

Though your schedule may feel a bit busier now that summer vacation is over, finding time to move your body and stay active is essential. There are also so many opportunities to spend time outdoors together (in the cooler air!) as a family while getting your heart pumping! Adults should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day, while children should get at least 60 minutes.

 

4. Be prepared for cold and flu season.

Once summer fades to fall and the kids head back to school, cold and flu season tends to ramp up. Washing your hands often and disinfecting surfaces in your home can help prevent the spread of illness. Getting your annual flu shot is one of the best ways to protect your family. Flu shots are recommended for everyone six months of age and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people get vaccinated against the flu starting in October.

 

5. Focus on your mental health.

Whether it's a change in the season, a shift in your life circumstances, or for a reason you can't pinpoint — we all struggle with our mental health from time to time. Though it can be a lonely experience, knowing you have a community to support you and rely on is essential.

If you’re looking for ways to improve your emotional wellness, consider these options as a place to start:

  • Find a hobby to help express yourself.

  • Maintain an active lifestyle.

  • Practice mindfulness through meditation or yoga.

  • Get involved in the community; stay social with friends & family.

  • Seek therapy or treatment if you feel you need support.

Mental health differs for everyone, so it's important to find what works best for you.

PICKLEBALL SAFETY

Pickleball is a fun sport that provides many great benefits. However, as with any sport, there are things you should do to make sure you stay safe while you’re on the court.

 

Proper Shoes for Pickleball

First and foremost, wearing the proper shoes is very important. Having the right pair of pickleball shoes can very well minimize your chance of serious injury. You will want to wear shoes that support lateral movement, such as tennis shoes. Leave your walking and running shoes at home as they will hinder your movement on the court and can actually be dangerous if worn when playing.

 

Hydration

It never fails, during a long tournament, or when a player from a northern state visits Florida and plays pickleball on their first day, they get overheated and feel like they are going to pass out. It is very important to stay hydrated when playing on the court. Be sure to drink plenty of water and bring extra water with you to the court.

 

Sun Protection

You can’t beat the joy of playing pickleball outside on a nice sunny day. However, make sure you protect yourself from too much exposure to the sun. Be sure to wear a safe sunscreen and keep some handy in your pickleball bag so you can reapply it if you are on the courts for an excessive amount of time. In addition to sunscreen, you can wear a hat and/or a UV-blocking shirt. While you’re not on the court, be sure to stay in the shade.

 

Keep Off a Wet Court

Ugh! You are in the middle of playing a pickleball game and the clouds start rolling in, then it begins to sprinkle. Although tempting, you and your opponents should make the decision to stop play. A wet court and even a semi-wet court can be slippery and dangerous. You don’t want to risk playing on a wet court. It could set you back for a while. If you want to play after it stops raining, be sure to totally wipe off the court.

 

Don't play in pain

Aching knees? Foot pain? Don't push yourself and cause further pain and potential injury. Schedule an appointment to review your symptoms and let's get you ready to be back on the court, feeling great!

From Dr. Schmerge

Hillary has offered to share her story as she works with me on losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In her weekly journal, she shares updates and insight. She's on week seventeen; her weekly check-ins are a great insight for those considering weigh loss help!

 
HER UPS & DOWNS

As a Family Nurse Practitioner, Kellie cares for your little ones - and you! Experience streamlined, compassionate care that Kellie provides you and your family. Call (704) 489-3440 to book your appointment.

Denver, NC

275 N NC 16 Bus Hwy, Ste 104

Denver, NC 28037

(704) 489-3440

 

Denver Office Hours

Mon - Fri, 8am – 5 pm

Sat - Sun, 8am – 5 pm (appt only)

Virtual Hours

Mon - Sun, 24 hours

NEW LOCATION!

Greensboro, NC

3407-D West Wendover Avenue

Greensboro, NC 27407

(336) 589-1223

 

Greensboro Office Hours

Mon - Fri, 8-5

closed for lunch, 12:30-1:30pm

We accept most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid

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