Posts Written OnMay 2015

Physical activity for people with health limitations A health issue may seem like a reason to avoid exertion, but in fact, exercise is an important part of keeping your condition under control. Here are a few guidelines for physical activity if you have asthma, arthritis, heart disease or some other medical condition. WHY IS STAYING ACTIVE SO IMPORTANT? Keeps up your strength so you can stay independent Gives you more energy for your favorite activities Reduces stress and anxiety Improves balance and coordination WHAT TYPES OF ACTIVITIES ARE MOST BENEFICIAL? Walking. Walking is one of the safest, most effective forms…

Concussions in youth sports cause growing concern among parents and coaches The warm sunshine and the smell of fresh cut grass is a sure sign of spring, and young athletev s will be eager to get back in the game. But one crash or collision with a fellow player could spell disaster, both on and off the field. Despite increased awareness about sports-related concussions, there’s been a sharp uptick in frequency over the last decade. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that emergency room visits for concussions in children 8 to 13 has doubled, and concussions have risen 200 percent…

Texting is a pain in the neck As we increasingly focus on sending messages via phone rather than chatting, researchers are seeing a new kind of pain dubbed “text neck.” According to a study published in the journal Surgical Technology International, text neck results from constantly bending the neck to look down. The head weighs 10-12 pounds when the spine is in neutral position, and as it bends forward, the relative weight on the neck increases. At a 45 degree angle, the neck supports about 49 pounds. Over time that kind of stress overload can cause: Wear and tear on…

WSH patients tell their amazing survival stories in three TV ad Janette, stunned by a breast cancer diagnosis, explains that once she arrived at Westside Surgical Hospital and met the staff, “I knew I could do this.” Marilyn gives a very straightforward reason for choosing the hospital for treatment: “It’s the only complete breast care center in Houston.” Jennifer, daughter of a breast cancer survivor, knows that her risk for the disease is higher than average, so she gets regular mammograms at Westside Surgical Hospital. “With their experts looking out for me, I know I’m doing everything I can to…

Drive and determination help new Chief Nursing/Administrative Officer Angie Kauffman steer toward success An experienced leader in healthcare operations, Angie Kauffman recently assumed the role of chief nursing/administrative officer at Westside Surgical Hospital. She is enthusiastic about supporting the hospital’s mission, vision and values by fostering a spirit of collaboration. Here, she outlines her team’s accomplishments and shares her view of the future. How did you come to Westside Surgical Hospital? I had been a chief nursing officer for nearly 10 years in Austin, where the healthcare market is smaller. I had wanted to obtain my master’s degree in business…