Many people cannot afford dental health insurance coverage in this day and age, but with a discount plan as I have described it would be much more affordable. Joining such a dental plan can help you preserve your familys dental health and smile for years to come.
Nobody can afford to ignore dental health, and at some point, all of us undergo one or all of the following treatments: exams, cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, root canals, braces, dentures, wisdom teeth extractions, gum surgery, dental implants, fillings, crowns, and bridges. In these difficult economic times it is often a challenge to find affordable medical and dental health care. Need Of The Hour A Discounted Dental Care Plan:Discounted dental care plans are becoming more and more commonplace today.?In this day and age of rising costs, consumers need to take control of their finances, without putting off their oral health care, as some might do, because of the high cost of insurance.The need of the hour is a discount dental care plan available, an alternative to insurance, offering members significant savings, excellent customer service and providing an affordable and comprehensive discount dental care plan.?Should Lower Burden Of Non-Insured Individuals:The plan should lessen the burden to non-insured individuals for dental care.?It should be designed for groups, families and individuals looking to save time and money on dental care, and allow you the freedom of choice to choose from 100,000 participating licensed providers.Such a plan would give you an opportunity to save money on good quality dental care and protect your familys dental health.?The plan should involve the participation of all dental providers in your area. On a national level that should mean 100,000 participating dentists, immediate online enrollment and swift plan activation, with no unnecessary paperwork, no annual limits, and no health restrictions.?That will enable you to start saving immediately.Should Save On Prescription And Vision Services:Not only should the dental plan offer cost benefits and savings with each type of plan, some plans also offer benefits to help you save on prescription, vision, chiropactic and hearing services as well.?Members should be instantly provided their chosen package when they join, which should include membership cards and a detailed discounted fee schedule. You should be able to access your card via e-mail where you can print it or be able to choose to receive it through postal mail.?Then all you would have to do is choose a dental provider in your area!?With such a discount dental care plan, you should be charged according to your plans discounted schedule fee, after you present your card to insure you are charged the discount dental care rate.?Best of all, you shouldnt have to concern yourself plan limits or with claim forms to fill out, as with most dental health insurance plans.?Should Provide Online Assistance:The plan should provide easy to use search tools (such as just entering your zip code) and plan comparison charts to assist you in your decision about which dental plan would best suit your needs, and should have a Customer Service Representative to help you find a provider.?Discounts on dental specialties should also be available on select plans.?Many people cannot afford dental health insurance coverage in this day and age, but with a discount plan as I have described it would be much more affordable.?Good dental hygiene is critical to overall health.?Joining such a dental plan can help you preserve your familys dental health and smile for years to come.?It is so much better than having to pay full price for dental work each and every time you need it.?Who wouldnt appreciate affordable and comprehensive dental care? But, does such a discounted dental plan exist.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

“New hope of cure for all cancers” is the headline in the Daily Express. Scientists have “unravelled the enzyme that helps to spread cancer cells” and that this may pave the way to “one size fits all” drugs. The newspaper goes on to say that for more than a decade researchers have been investigating an enzyme called telomerase, which is important for normal cell growth but also plays a part in proliferation of cancer cells. Researchers have now “worked out the most important part of its structure”, the newspaper adds.
The study behind this story has looked at the structure of the subunits that make up telomerase. Understanding the structure of this enzyme – which is involved in ageing and in cancer – may one day lead to the development of cancer drugs that rely on blocking its negative activity. It will be some time before we see these drugs, given the large amount of development and testing that must now begin, but the results are a key step in furthering research into treatments for cancer based on the action of this enzyme.
Where did the story come from? Dr Andrew Gills and colleagues from the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, US carried out this study. The study was funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Ellison Medical Foundation. It was published in the peer-reviewed medical journal: Nature.
What kind of scientific study was this? This was a laboratory study where researchers were investigating the molecular structure of one part of telomerase. Telomerase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in ensuring genetic stability in cells that are actively dividing and growing. Over time, telomerase becomes less active and this leads to ageing. However, in cancer cells, telomerase is over expressed (over active) and this helps to give these cells immortality. Because of these properties, telomerase has been the focus of a lot of research into ageing and into cancer.

The researchers used the genes that code for the manufacture of telomerase from flour beetles (Tribolium castaneum), which they inserted into bacteria (E. coli) to manufacture it in large quantities. They extracted a subunit of telomerase called TERT from the bacteria and purified it using complex methods. Further laboratory investigation (including co-crystallisation) was used to investigate the structure. This publication reports the findings about the structure of the protein subunit of telomerase.
What were the results of the study? The researchers found that TERT is organised into a ring configuration. This structure is similar to that of other enzymes, including reverse transcriptase, suggesting there may be an evolutionary link. The researchers present detailed descriptions and illustrations of TERT, including models of how TERT binds with RNA and DNA.
What interpretations did the researchers draw from these results? The researchers conclude that “because telomerase has a critical role in both cancer and ageing, these findings could potentially assist our efforts to identify and develop inhibitors and/or activators of this enzyme for the treatment of cancer and ageing, respectively”.
What does the NHS Knowledge Service make of this study? This laboratory study has solved a crucial part of the puzzle surrounding the role of telomerase in ageing and in cancer. By uncovering the structure of key parts of this enzyme, the researchers have potentially opened up a new avenue of research for medications to treat cancer. However, such treatments will be some way off. Karol Sikora, a leading cancer expert, is quoted in the Daily Express as saying that the discovery is probably five years away from reaching clinical trials (i.e. human studies).

Similar posts: bunion surgery

Shawne Merriman has a PCL tear in his left knee, now all that's left to determine is what he and the team plan on doing about it. At this point Merriman can get back on the field with his unstable joint, or he can opt for one of two surgical options. A partial reconstruction could get him back on the field this season, and a full reconstruction would put him out for the entire year. Considering that the Chargers don't really give a shit about Merriman's long-term health they are going to push him to return for the opener, but the linebacker should proceed with caution. His best bet is to get Norv Turner's opinion on the matter and then do the exact opposite of whatever that dumbfuck suggests.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

Shawne Merriman has a PCL tear in his left knee, now all that's left to determine is what he and the team plan on doing about it. At this point Merriman can get back on the field with his unstable joint, or he can opt for one of two surgical options. A partial reconstruction could get him back on the field this season, and a full reconstruction would put him out for the entire year. Considering that the Chargers don't really give a shit about Merriman's long-term health they are going to push him to return for the opener, but the linebacker should proceed with caution. His best bet is to get Norv Turner's opinion on the matter and then do the exact opposite of whatever that dumbfuck suggests.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

After Surgery

Today, my "Sweet daughter", Maranda had foot surgery for a bunion. She has to have both feet done but they will only do one at a time. The Dr. said she did really good and he said cosmetically she will be very happy, but he was glad he did it now, because the cartlidge in that joint was just about gone. He had to cut the bone and then put a screw in the joint and a steel wire in the toe. She is doing good, but is still pretty sleepy and numb. He said the numbness will go away tomorrow, so that is when the real pain will come. She was so pitiful. She is a Mom Dads girl even though she is married and all grown up, so when she saw us after the surgery she just cried. She requested potato soup and cornbread since she hadn't eaten. For some reason, anytime my children are sick that is the request. She will be out of work for 2 weeks to recooperate. I asked her if she cared if I blogged about her surgery. She said, "I look awful, Mom, but maybe it might help someone else that is thinking of doing this." Isn't that so thoughtful? Please keep her in your prayers.

Also, please keep my "sweet son" in your prayers. He has had 2 shoulder surgeries and neither one has worked. He has been going through this 2 1/2 years.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

Less than 2 weeks from now I'll be kissing my sweet bunion goodbye. Well, the one on my right foot. I'll be undergoing "twilight anesthesia" and having a nerve block inserted through my right leg and then will begin the bone breaking and cutting and resetting and pinning and stitching and finally, the healing. I'm real excited about it. I'm actually really nervous for it but did meet my doctor today and I really liked him. I also found out some not so favorable things. I have to spend 72 hours in the surgery center AFTER receiving the pain medication which may or may not be the investigational drug, an FDA approved drug or a placebo (nothing at all in the shape and form of a pill). This means I will be in the surgery center until some point on Friday rather than until some point on Wednesday which is what I originally understood. You see, my understanding of 72 hours post surgery would be 72 hours after the surgery -- their interpretation is after surgery you get to have your foot numb until 3 AM the following morning and then within 12 hours of that you receive the pain medication -- and 72 hours after that you are available for check out. SO,that puts me to the next problem for me and the next stipulation for the study - NO VISITORS. Not one, not 3, not my best friend, my 2 babies or even my husband . NO VISITORS. Evidently (this makes sense) people's pain levels are affected by the people around them and their words, actions, etc. Johnson Johnson does not want this variable to be a part in their investigational pain medicine study so they eliminated it. I can have my cell phone and my laptop so I plan to stay in touch fine through the week. So I am going forward with it and will bid my family farewell on the 18th at 6 AM. The great news is they cater all their meals from Kneader's, a wonderful bakery that I frequent, and they have lots of snacks and pop to munch on throughout the day.
The skinny on getting better: Day 1 is surgery day -- i'm numb in my leg. Day 2: Still have it elevated but can move about my room a little as needed, if needed. Day 3: I can walk on it in the boot and only in the boot. I have to sleep in the boot, suck. Day 4: More weight bearing is okay but only in boot again. (Are you seeing the progression). I have the boot on for 4 - 6 weeks. At one week post op he gives me a surgical shoe to wear to drive in only. At about 3 weeks he says I can wear the surgical shoe and start doing a little cycling on a stationary bike. By 8 weeks, I'm back to normal doing any level of impact activity I want.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

Less than 2 weeks from now I'll be kissing my sweet bunion goodbye. Well, the one on my right foot. I'll be undergoing "twilight anesthesia" and having a nerve block inserted through my right leg and then will begin the bone breaking and cutting and resetting and pinning and stitching and finally, the healing. I'm real excited about it. I'm actually really nervous for it but did meet my doctor today and I really liked him. I also found out some not so favorable things. I have to spend 72 hours in the surgery center AFTER receiving the pain medication which may or may not be the investigational drug, an FDA approved drug or a placebo (nothing at all in the shape and form of a pill). This means I will be in the surgery center until some point on Friday rather than until some point on Wednesday which is what I originally understood. You see, my understanding of 72 hours post surgery would be 72 hours after the surgery -- their interpretation is after surgery you get to have your foot numb until 3 AM the following morning and then within 12 hours of that you receive the pain medication -- and 72 hours after that you are available for check out. SO,that puts me to the next problem for me and the next stipulation for the study - NO VISITORS. Not one, not 3, not my best friend, my 2 babies or even my husband . NO VISITORS. Evidently (this makes sense) people's pain levels are affected by the people around them and their words, actions, etc. Johnson Johnson does not want this variable to be a part in their investigational pain medicine study so they eliminated it. I can have my cell phone and my laptop so I plan to stay in touch fine through the week. So I am going forward with it and will bid my family farewell on the 18th at 6 AM. The great news is they cater all their meals from Kneader's, a wonderful bakery that I frequent, and they have lots of snacks and pop to munch on throughout the day.
The skinny on getting better: Day 1 is surgery day -- i'm numb in my leg. Day 2: Still have it elevated but can move about my room a little as needed, if needed. Day 3: I can walk on it in the boot and only in the boot. I have to sleep in the boot, suck. Day 4: More weight bearing is okay but only in boot again. (Are you seeing the progression). I have the boot on for 4 - 6 weeks. At one week post op he gives me a surgical shoe to wear to drive in only. At about 3 weeks he says I can wear the surgical shoe and start doing a little cycling on a stationary bike. By 8 weeks, I'm back to normal doing any level of impact activity I want.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

Less than 2 weeks from now I'll be kissing my sweet bunion goodbye. Well, the one on my right foot. I'll be undergoing "twilight anesthesia" and having a nerve block inserted through my right leg and then will begin the bone breaking and cutting and resetting and pinning and stitching and finally, the healing. I'm real excited about it. I'm actually really nervous for it but did meet my doctor today and I really liked him. I also found out some not so favorable things. I have to spend 72 hours in the surgery center AFTER receiving the pain medication which may or may not be the investigational drug, an FDA approved drug or a placebo (nothing at all in the shape and form of a pill). This means I will be in the surgery center until some point on Friday rather than until some point on Wednesday which is what I originally understood. You see, my understanding of 72 hours post surgery would be 72 hours after the surgery -- their interpretation is after surgery you get to have your foot numb until 3 AM the following morning and then within 12 hours of that you receive the pain medication -- and 72 hours after that you are available for check out. SO,that puts me to the next problem for me and the next stipulation for the study - NO VISITORS. Not one, not 3, not my best friend, my 2 babies or even my husband . NO VISITORS. Evidently (this makes sense) people's pain levels are affected by the people around them and their words, actions, etc. Johnson Johnson does not want this variable to be a part in their investigational pain medicine study so they eliminated it. I can have my cell phone and my laptop so I plan to stay in touch fine through the week. So I am going forward with it and will bid my family farewell on the 18th at 6 AM. The great news is they cater all their meals from Kneader's, a wonderful bakery that I frequent, and they have lots of snacks and pop to munch on throughout the day.
The skinny on getting better: Day 1 is surgery day -- i'm numb in my leg. Day 2: Still have it elevated but can move about my room a little as needed, if needed. Day 3: I can walk on it in the boot and only in the boot. I have to sleep in the boot, suck. Day 4: More weight bearing is okay but only in boot again. (Are you seeing the progression). I have the boot on for 4 - 6 weeks. At one week post op he gives me a surgical shoe to wear to drive in only. At about 3 weeks he says I can wear the surgical shoe and start doing a little cycling on a stationary bike. By 8 weeks, I'm back to normal doing any level of impact activity I want.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

What we're talking about here is a consultative presence that is patient-focused before, during, and after a procedure. Yes, nurses provide that nurturing quality so that a doctor can focus on the surgery, but we now know that a patient's TRUST in their surgeon and a physician's CARING attitude dramatically impact healing.

A few people have mentioned to me that they didn't care if a surgeon had a pleasant personality as long as they were a good surgeon because they'd had surgeons who were nice but didn't give them good surgical results. I understand, and agree, given the choice, BUT WHO SAID WE SHOULD HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE AND WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE EITHER/OR? What about BOTH/AND?

Is it impossible for a bunion surgeon (or any physician) to have both excellent surgical and social skills? Are we as "patients" acting like victims by tolerating poor results or poor treatment and in effect, creating an unnecessary reality that doesn't serve either patient or surgeon?

I know it's possible to have both excellent surgical and social skills in a surgeon. I had that in my surgeon Dr. John Willems at Scripps Medical Clinic in San Diego when I had a hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer eleven years ago. Imagine. 11 years have passes and I'm still singing his praises.

I know as good as my bunion surgeon was technically, had he been willing to develop the communication skills to deal with post-op problems and resolve them with empathy and "whatever it takes, with a smile" instead of telling me with great annoyance that I asked too many questions and that he didn't have time to answer questions I didn't need the answer to, I'd be shouting his name from the rooftops in this blog, telling you to go to him.

Perhaps I was asking a lot of questions, but even if it was too much for his taste, after answering three questions, he could have said in a caring tone, "Mary, I can see from your questions, you're really worried about this surgery. I've done hundreds of surgeries like yours and I'm confident we're going to get great results."

Sometimes, questions are not about answers; they're about trust. And trust is built by showing empathy first.

My second opinion podiatrist - very nice man, took his time answering questions, but when I asked how many bunion surgeries like mine he performed a month or week (my original surgeon performs 5-10 a week), his first response was, "It's quality, not quantity that counts." Hmmm. We're getting closer with empathetic voice tone, but now I'm not trusting his skill level. I want specific numbers, which were never forthcoming. I had a sense it was a few times a month. Not enough surgical time for me. Time for a third opinion.

Third opinion podiatrist - the jury is still out. When I told him that I was looking for an excellent surgeon who was also respectful and empathetic, he said, "I'm not arrogant, but I may run a little late with appointments because I'm taking my time with a previous patient." Oh, now that's a good answer.

The next time I came in for a visit, his office staff said that they made sure that he wasn't booked with other patients while I was there. I asked why and was told that I needed more time with him. At first I worried, then I guessed that it was because I'd been clear in my first appointment that I was looking for a surgeon who took the time to answer my questions, but it did make me wonder about those people who don't have the assertiveness skills that I do to ask for what they want and get it.

Everyone deserves a great surgical experience and it happens when there's a combination of masterful technical skill and a caring consultative presence from the surgeon.

What about you? How was your experience with your bunion surgeon and bunion surgery? What's most important to you in choosing a bunion surgeon and going ahead with bunion surgery? Was there one specific action a surgeon did that made you choose him/her for your surgery?

And what about the bunion surgeon you said you'd never use or go back to? Why not?

Tell me what you think. What makes a great bunion surgeon? Post your comment below or email me so we can all have a better bunion surgery experience and walk freely without pain and a smile on our faces, giving thanks for our good fortune and great bunion surgeons.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

What we're talking about here is a consultative presence that is patient-focused before, during, and after a procedure. Yes, nurses provide that nurturing quality so that a doctor can focus on the surgery, but we now know that a patient's TRUST in their surgeon and a physician's CARING attitude dramatically impact healing.

A few people have mentioned to me that they didn't care if a surgeon had a pleasant personality as long as they were a good surgeon because they'd had surgeons who were nice but didn't give them good surgical results. I understand, and agree, given the choice, BUT WHO SAID WE SHOULD HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE AND WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE EITHER/OR? What about BOTH/AND?

Is it impossible for a bunion surgeon (or any physician) to have both excellent surgical and social skills? Are we as "patients" acting like victims by tolerating poor results or poor treatment and in effect, creating an unnecessary reality that doesn't serve either patient or surgeon?

I know it's possible to have both excellent surgical and social skills in a surgeon. I had that in my surgeon Dr. John Willems at Scripps Medical Clinic in San Diego when I had a hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer eleven years ago. Imagine. 11 years have passes and I'm still singing his praises.

I know as good as my bunion surgeon was technically, had he been willing to develop the communication skills to deal with post-op problems and resolve them with empathy and "whatever it takes, with a smile" instead of telling me with great annoyance that I asked too many questions and that he didn't have time to answer questions I didn't need the answer to, I'd be shouting his name from the rooftops in this blog, telling you to go to him.

Perhaps I was asking a lot of questions, but even if it was too much for his taste, after answering three questions, he could have said in a caring tone, "Mary, I can see from your questions, you're really worried about this surgery. I've done hundreds of surgeries like yours and I'm confident we're going to get great results."

Sometimes, questions are not about answers; they're about trust. And trust is built by showing empathy first.

My second opinion podiatrist - very nice man, took his time answering questions, but when I asked how many bunion surgeries like mine he performed a month or week (my original surgeon performs 5-10 a week), his first response was, "It's quality, not quantity that counts." Hmmm. We're getting closer with empathetic voice tone, but now I'm not trusting his skill level. I want specific numbers, which were never forthcoming. I had a sense it was a few times a month. Not enough surgical time for me. Time for a third opinion.

Third opinion podiatrist - the jury is still out. When I told him that I was looking for an excellent surgeon who was also respectful and empathetic, he said, "I'm not arrogant, but I may run a little late with appointments because I'm taking my time with a previous patient." Oh, now that's a good answer.

The next time I came in for a visit, his office staff said that they made sure that he wasn't booked with other patients while I was there. I asked why and was told that I needed more time with him. At first I worried, then I guessed that it was because I'd been clear in my first appointment that I was looking for a surgeon who took the time to answer my questions, but it did make me wonder about those people who don't have the assertiveness skills that I do to ask for what they want and get it.

Everyone deserves a great surgical experience and it happens when there's a combination of masterful technical skill and a caring consultative presence from the surgeon.

What about you? How was your experience with your bunion surgeon and bunion surgery? What's most important to you in choosing a bunion surgeon and going ahead with bunion surgery? Was there one specific action a surgeon did that made you choose him/her for your surgery?

And what about the bunion surgeon you said you'd never use or go back to? Why not?

Tell me what you think. What makes a great bunion surgeon? Post your comment below or email me so we can all have a better bunion surgery experience and walk freely without pain and a smile on our faces, giving thanks for our good fortune and great bunion surgeons.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

What we're talking about here is a consultative presence that is patient-focused before, during, and after a procedure. Yes, nurses provide that nurturing quality so that a doctor can focus on the surgery, but we now know that a patient's TRUST in their surgeon and a physician's CARING attitude dramatically impact healing.

A few people have mentioned to me that they didn't care if a surgeon had a pleasant personality as long as they were a good surgeon because they'd had surgeons who were nice but didn't give them good surgical results. I understand, and agree, given the choice, BUT WHO SAID WE SHOULD HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE AND WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE EITHER/OR? What about BOTH/AND?

Is it impossible for a bunion surgeon (or any physician) to have both excellent surgical and social skills? Are we as "patients" acting like victims by tolerating poor results or poor treatment and in effect, creating an unnecessary reality that doesn't serve either patient or surgeon?

I know it's possible to have both excellent surgical and social skills in a surgeon. I had that in my surgeon Dr. John Willems at Scripps Medical Clinic in San Diego when I had a hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer eleven years ago. Imagine. 11 years have passes and I'm still singing his praises.

I know as good as my bunion surgeon was technically, had he been willing to develop the communication skills to deal with post-op problems and resolve them with empathy and "whatever it takes, with a smile" instead of telling me with great annoyance that I asked too many questions and that he didn't have time to answer questions I didn't need the answer to, I'd be shouting his name from the rooftops in this blog, telling you to go to him.

Perhaps I was asking a lot of questions, but even if it was too much for his taste, after answering three questions, he could have said in a caring tone, "Mary, I can see from your questions, you're really worried about this surgery. I've done hundreds of surgeries like yours and I'm confident we're going to get great results."

Sometimes, questions are not about answers; they're about trust. And trust is built by showing empathy first.

My second opinion podiatrist - very nice man, took his time answering questions, but when I asked how many bunion surgeries like mine he performed a month or week (my original surgeon performs 5-10 a week), his first response was, "It's quality, not quantity that counts." Hmmm. We're getting closer with empathetic voice tone, but now I'm not trusting his skill level. I want specific numbers, which were never forthcoming. I had a sense it was a few times a month. Not enough surgical time for me. Time for a third opinion.

Third opinion podiatrist - the jury is still out. When I told him that I was looking for an excellent surgeon who was also respectful and empathetic, he said, "I'm not arrogant, but I may run a little late with appointments because I'm taking my time with a previous patient." Oh, now that's a good answer.

The next time I came in for a visit, his office staff said that they made sure that he wasn't booked with other patients while I was there. I asked why and was told that I needed more time with him. At first I worried, then I guessed that it was because I'd been clear in my first appointment that I was looking for a surgeon who took the time to answer my questions, but it did make me wonder about those people who don't have the assertiveness skills that I do to ask for what they want and get it.

Everyone deserves a great surgical experience and it happens when there's a combination of masterful technical skill and a caring consultative presence from the surgeon.

What about you? How was your experience with your bunion surgeon and bunion surgery? What's most important to you in choosing a bunion surgeon and going ahead with bunion surgery? Was there one specific action a surgeon did that made you choose him/her for your surgery?

And what about the bunion surgeon you said you'd never use or go back to? Why not?

Tell me what you think. What makes a great bunion surgeon? Post your comment below or email me so we can all have a better bunion surgery experience and walk freely without pain and a smile on our faces, giving thanks for our good fortune and great bunion surgeons.

Similar posts: bunion surgery

What we're talking about here is a consultative presence that is patient-focused before, during, and after a procedure. Yes, nurses provide that nurturing quality so that a doctor can focus on the surgery, but we now know that a patient's TRUST in their surgeon and a physician's CARING attitude dramatically impact healing.

A few people have mentioned to me that they didn't care if a surgeon had a pleasant personality as long as they were a good surgeon because they'd had surgeons who were nice but didn't give them good surgical results. I understand, and agree, given the choice, BUT WHO SAID WE SHOULD HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE AND WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE EITHER/OR? What about BOTH/AND?

Is it impossible for a bunion surgeon (or any physician) to have both excellent surgical and social skills? Are we as "patients" acting like victims by tolerating poor results or poor treatment and in effect, creating an unnecessary reality that doesn't serve either patient or surgeon?

I know it's possible to have both excellent surgical and social skills in a surgeon. I had that in my surgeon Dr. John Willems at Scripps Medical Clinic in San Diego when I had a hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer eleven years ago. Imagine. 11 years have passes and I'm still singing his praises.

I know as good as my bunion surgeon was technically, had he been willing to develop the communication skills to deal with post-op problems and resolve them with empathy and "whatever it takes, with a smile" instead of telling me with great annoyance that I asked too many questions and that he didn't have time to answer questions I didn't need the answer to, I'd be shouting his name from the rooftops in this blog, telling you to go to him.

Perhaps I was asking a lot of questions, but even if it was too much for his taste, after answering three questions, he could have said in a caring tone, "Mary, I can see from your questions, you're really worried about this surgery. I've done hundreds of surgeries like yours and I'm confident we're going to get great results."

Sometimes, questions are not about answers; they're about trust. And trust is built by showing empathy first.

My second opinion podiatrist - very nice man, took his time answering questions, but when I asked how many bunion surgeries like mine he performed a month or week (my original surgeon performs 5-10 a week), his first response was, "It's quality, not quantity that counts." Hmmm. We're getting closer with empathetic voice tone, but now I'm not trusting his skill level. I want specific numbers, which were never forthcoming. I had a sense it was a few times a month. Not enough surgical time for me. Time for a third opinion.

Third opinion podiatrist - the jury is still out. When I told him that I was looking for an excellent surgeon who was also respectful and empathetic, he said, "I'm not arrogant, but I may run a little late with appointments because I'm taking my time with a previous patient." Oh, now that's a good answer.

The next time I came in for a visit, his office staff said that they made sure that he wasn't booked with other patients while I was there. I asked why and was told that I needed more time with him. At first I worried, then I guessed that it was because I'd been clear in my first appointment that I was looking for a surgeon who took the time to answer my questions, but it did make me wonder about those people who don't have the assertiveness skills that I do to ask for what they want and get it.

Everyone deserves a great surgical experience and it happens when there's a combination of masterful technical skill and a caring consultative presence from the surgeon.

What about you? How was your experience with your bunion surgeon and bunion surgery? What's most important to you in choosing a bunion surgeon and going ahead with bunion surgery? Was there one specific action a surgeon did that made you choose him/her for your surgery?

And what about the bunion surgeon you said you'd never use or go back to? Why not?

Tell me what you think. What makes a great bunion surgeon? Post your comment below or email me so we can all have a better bunion surgery experience and walk freely without pain and a smile on our faces, giving thanks for our good fortune and great bunion surgeons.

Read more...

What we're talking about here is a consultative presence that is patient-focused before, during, and after a procedure. Yes, nurses provide that nurturing quality so that a doctor can focus on the surgery, but we now know that a patient's TRUST in their surgeon and a physician's CARING attitude dramatically impact healing.

A few people have mentioned to me that they didn't care if a surgeon had a pleasant personality as long as they were a good surgeon because they'd had surgeons who were nice but didn't give them good surgical results. I understand, and agree, given the choice, BUT WHO SAID WE SHOULD HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE AND WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE EITHER/OR? What about BOTH/AND?

Is it impossible for a bunion surgeon (or any physician) to have both excellent surgical and social skills? Are we as "patients" acting like victims by tolerating poor results or poor treatment and in effect, creating an unnecessary reality that doesn't serve either patient or surgeon?

I know it's possible to have both excellent surgical and social skills in a surgeon. I had that in my surgeon Dr. John Willems at Scripps Medical Clinic in San Diego when I had a hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer eleven years ago. Imagine. 11 years have passes and I'm still singing his praises.

I know as good as my bunion surgeon was technically, had he been willing to develop the communication skills to deal with post-op problems and resolve them with empathy and "whatever it takes, with a smile" instead of telling me with great annoyance that I asked too many questions and that he didn't have time to answer questions I didn't need the answer to, I'd be shouting his name from the rooftops in this blog, telling you to go to him.

Perhaps I was asking a lot of questions, but even if it was too much for his taste, after answering three questions, he could have said in a caring tone, "Mary, I can see from your questions, you're really worried about this surgery. I've done hundreds of surgeries like yours and I'm confident we're going to get great results."

Sometimes, questions are not about answers; they're about trust. And trust is built by showing empathy first.

My second opinion podiatrist - very nice man, took his time answering questions, but when I asked how many bunion surgeries like mine he performed a month or week (my original surgeon performs 5-10 a week), his first response was, "It's quality, not quantity that counts." Hmmm. We're getting closer with empathetic voice tone, but now I'm not trusting his skill level. I want specific numbers, which were never forthcoming. I had a sense it was a few times a month. Not enough surgical time for me. Time for a third opinion.

Third opinion podiatrist - the jury is still out. When I told him that I was looking for an excellent surgeon who was also respectful and empathetic, he said, "I'm not arrogant, but I may run a little late with appointments because I'm taking my time with a previous patient." Oh, now that's a good answer.

The next time I came in for a visit, his office staff said that they made sure that he wasn't booked with other patients while I was there. I asked why and was told that I needed more time with him. At first I worried, then I guessed that it was because I'd been clear in my first appointment that I was looking for a surgeon who took the time to answer my questions, but it did make me wonder about those people who don't have the assertiveness skills that I do to ask for what they want and get it.

Everyone deserves a great surgical experience and it happens when there's a combination of masterful technical skill and a caring consultative presence from the surgeon.

What about you? How was your experience with your bunion surgeon and bunion surgery? What's most important to you in choosing a bunion surgeon and going ahead with bunion surgery? Was there one specific action a surgeon did that made you choose him/her for your surgery?

And what about the bunion surgeon you said you'd never use or go back to? Why not?

Tell me what you think. What makes a great bunion surgeon? Post your comment below or email me so we can all have a better bunion surgery experience and walk freely without pain and a smile on our faces, giving thanks for our good fortune and great bunion surgeons.

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What we're talking about here is a consultative presence that is patient-focused before, during, and after a procedure. Yes, nurses provide that nurturing quality so that a doctor can focus on the surgery, but we now know that a patient's TRUST in their surgeon and a physician's CARING attitude dramatically impact healing.

A few people have mentioned to me that they didn't care if a surgeon had a pleasant personality as long as they were a good surgeon because they'd had surgeons who were nice but didn't give them good surgical results. I understand, and agree, given the choice, BUT WHO SAID WE SHOULD HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE AND WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE EITHER/OR? What about BOTH/AND?

Is it impossible for a bunion surgeon (or any physician) to have both excellent surgical and social skills? Are we as "patients" acting like victims by tolerating poor results or poor treatment and in effect, creating an unnecessary reality that doesn't serve either patient or surgeon?

I know it's possible to have both excellent surgical and social skills in a surgeon. I had that in my surgeon Dr. John Willems at Scripps Medical Clinic in San Diego when I had a hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer eleven years ago. Imagine. 11 years have passes and I'm still singing his praises.

I know as good as my bunion surgeon was technically, had he been willing to develop the communication skills to deal with post-op problems and resolve them with empathy and "whatever it takes, with a smile" instead of telling me with great annoyance that I asked too many questions and that he didn't have time to answer questions I didn't need the answer to, I'd be shouting his name from the rooftops in this blog, telling you to go to him.

Perhaps I was asking a lot of questions, but even if it was too much for his taste, after answering three questions, he could have said in a caring tone, "Mary, I can see from your questions, you're really worried about this surgery. I've done hundreds of surgeries like yours and I'm confident we're going to get great results."

Sometimes, questions are not about answers; they're about trust. And trust is built by showing empathy first.

My second opinion podiatrist - very nice man, took his time answering questions, but when I asked how many bunion surgeries like mine he performed a month or week (my original surgeon performs 5-10 a week), his first response was, "It's quality, not quantity that counts." Hmmm. We're getting closer with empathetic voice tone, but now I'm not trusting his skill level. I want specific numbers, which were never forthcoming. I had a sense it was a few times a month. Not enough surgical time for me. Time for a third opinion.

Third opinion podiatrist - the jury is still out. When I told him that I was looking for an excellent surgeon who was also respectful and empathetic, he said, "I'm not arrogant, but I may run a little late with appointments because I'm taking my time with a previous patient." Oh, now that's a good answer.

The next time I came in for a visit, his office staff said that they made sure that he wasn't booked with other patients while I was there. I asked why and was told that I needed more time with him. At first I worried, then I guessed that it was because I'd been clear in my first appointment that I was looking for a surgeon who took the time to answer my questions, but it did make me wonder about those people who don't have the assertiveness skills that I do to ask for what they want and get it.

Everyone deserves a great surgical experience and it happens when there's a combination of masterful technical skill and a caring consultative presence from the surgeon.

What about you? How was your experience with your bunion surgeon and bunion surgery? What's most important to you in choosing a bunion surgeon and going ahead with bunion surgery? Was there one specific action a surgeon did that made you choose him/her for your surgery?

And what about the bunion surgeon you said you'd never use or go back to? Why not?

Tell me what you think. What makes a great bunion surgeon? Post your comment below or email me so we can all have a better bunion surgery experience and walk freely without pain and a smile on our faces, giving thanks for our good fortune and great bunion surgeons.

Read more...

Dr. Julian Whitaker of the Whitaker Wellness Institute (949-851-1550) discusses EECP. Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) is a nonsurgical therapy for angina, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other conditions involving poor circulation. It could be called a Natural Bypass If you've been diagnosed with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetic neuropathy, or another circulatory disorder, you could benefit from a nonsurgical therapy called EECP. This therapy is sometimes referred to as a "natural bypass" because it enhances the body's ability to create new pathways for blood flow around clogged arteries. EECP greatly accelerates the formation of tiny blood vessels called collaterals, helping restore healthy circulation to organs and tissues that have been deprived of blood and oxygen. How Does EECP Work? EECP Relieves Angina EECP was developed at Harvard University almost 50 years ago as a therapy for angina, the squeezing chest pain that occurs when the heart is not getting enough oxygen. By encouraging the formation of collaterals around blockages in the coronary arteries, EECP enhances the heart's supply of oxygen and reduces chest pain. Several studies conducted at leading university medical centers have shown that patients who undergo a course of EECP experience significant benefits: They have fewer episodes of angina They experience less intense episodes of angina They need less anti-angina medication They can walk farther without experiencing angina They can resume work and enjoy more social activities Unlike drugs that are prescribed for angina, EECP is completely safe and without side effects. And unlike angioplasty and bypass surgery highly invasive surgical interventions that are used to clear or circumvent blockages in the arteries EECP can be done on an outpatient basis and requires no post-treatment recovery period. Many patients choose EECP after suffering a heart attack or enduring one or even several surgeries for coronary artery disease. In some cases, EECP is their only option. Yet this non-invasive therapy is so safe and effective that it should be considered as a first-line treatment for angina, not just a last resort after surgery has been ruled out.

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Richardo Garcia v. Edward J. Fox, et al.: While stopped in heavy traffic on Interstate 95 in Fairfield, passenger Richardo Garcia's vehicle was struck from behind by another truck on Aug. 10, 2001. He was on the job for Quality Glass Works of Waterbury at the time. The tractor trailer that struck him was owned by Logistics Express Inc., of Orange, Calif., and driven by Edward J. Fox. The impact injured Garcia's neck, right arm and back. Before surgery, he was given a rating of 12 percent permanent partial disability to his lumbar spine, and a 10.8 percent whole person disability.

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Arch supports. Toe spacers. Orthodics. SuperFeet. Metatarsal pads. Night Splints. If you've experienced a bunion or two, and visited a podiatrist for conservative treatment, these are words you've become all too familiar with. Conservative treatments and shoe modification can slow a bunion’s progress. For many of you, there may be a variety of special shoes you’ve tried wearing, or a personalized combo of shoes + one or three of the corrective/supportive options. Maybe you’ve done so for a year, or two, or ten. Of course, none of this will remove or reverse the bump itself, nor permanently correct the underlying maligned bones/ligaments that started this whole problem in the first place.


Like everything else in life, bunions are a process, not a static state. For me, this has been a nearly life-long process, and a time consuming way of existence with expensive orthodics and constant fiddling with shoe that I’ve come to accept without question. Both my paternal and maternal grandmothers had this condition on both feet. So does my aunt (my dad’s sister), as well as my mom (who is now 65 and underwent surgery for bunionectomy in her 50’s). It seems as though my case is relatively unique among everyone I’ve spoken to, because of the early onset around age 10 or 11. When you combine the genetic predisposition for bunions with certain environmental factors, this can happen at such an early age. Once the process starts, it’s essentially an irreversible growth pattern put in motion. Just as a moving river changes the landscape around it over time, dragging surrounding structures and materials into itself, carving out rocky surfaces and eroding earth, growing wider and more established; you can support it protect it or slow it down, but you don’t really “cure” a bunion.







Far from being just a mildly unattractive or uncomfortable feature; my scenario was recently referred to by my physical therapist as “an extreme biomechanical disadvantage.” It’s generated a combo of foot dysfunction, knee pain, hamstring and Achilles tightness, and other issues. What I’ve got goin’ on here is the culmination of growing and building upon a flawed foundation for 25+ years. Add to that the early onset; and at age 37 I'm the proud owner of a pair of feet nearly identical-looking to my grandmother’s feet the way they were when she was in her 60’s. In my teenage years, my mom used to joke about my “bad understanding.” At this point it is definitely no longer a joke.








I’ve had a few contrasting opinions on surgical treatment in the past few years, and am getting close to making my decision. These professionals, who’ve probably all seen the wildest spectrum of foot deformity during their careers; even so, have a difficult time masking their true feelings during my appointment. In polite words, the last podiatrist I visited referred to my left bunion as “Impressive.” Really, I thought that was a nice way to put it. A doctor friend (albeit, a cancer doctor) was more honest when shown what I got to work with; announcing “You, my dear, are screwed.” Podiatrists and orthopedists are responsible for presenting all non-surgical treatment options alongside the surgical treatment options. But when asked, they confess my surgery will definitely be considered medically necessary and covered by insurance, and there’s no reason for me to have to keep living with this. The decision ultimately has to do with surgery options, down-time, and other questions that I’m still grappling with. Meanwhile, I’d love to hear from anyone else who is facing, or has faced, similarly extreme bunions.

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Biotene Antibacterial Dry Mouth Toothpaste With Calcium Gentle Mint Gel 4.5oz
Made in the USA Reduces Bacteria and Gum Irritations Due To Dry Mouth. Strengthens your salivas natural defenses for healthier teeth and gums. #1 Recommended Dry Mouth Care Enzyme Protection Plus Fluoride - With Calcium Contains Oral Enzymes necessary for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Clinically Proven to reduce the bacteria associated with plaque and gingivitis. Promotes Healing of bleeding gums and inflammation. Effectively Fights the causes and effects of bad breath. Reduces Canker Sore occurrences attributed to sodium lauryl sulfate. Triple Enzyme Protection: Lactoperoxidase Lactoferrin Lysozyme You may not realize you suffer from dry mouth until it causes serious dental problems. Common symptoms to look for are sore or bleeding gums, a constant dry feeling, cracked lips, bad breath and excessive plaque buildup. Dry Mouth can be caused by a number of factors including: Medications Diabetes Stress Vitamin Deficiencies Radiotherapy Auto-Immune Disorders Biotene Dry Mouth Toothpaste provides antibacterial enzymes balanced with essential components to strengthen your mouths natural defense system. Fewer cavities, fresh breath and healthier gums. Beneficial for your whole family. Use daily for long lasting protection against: Cavities Gingivitis Inflammation Harmful Bacteria Bad Breath This product contains no sugar and no saccharin. Naturally Sweetened with Xylitol No sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) Made in USA Directions: Use in place of your regular toothpaste, after each meal, or as directed by a dentist or physician. Children 2 to 6 years: Use only a pea sized amount and supervise brushing and rinsing. Ingredients: Active Ingredients: per 100 gm: Lactoperoxidase (15,000 Units), Glucose Oxidase (10,000 Units), Lysozyme (16mg), Lactoferrin (16mg), Sodium Monofluorophosphate (0.14% w/v fluoride ion) Inactive Ingredients: Sorbitol, Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Xylitol, Isoceteth 20, Cellulose Gum, Flavor, Calcium Lactate, Sodium Benzoate, Poloxamer, Beta-d-glucose, Potassium Thiocyanate, Blue 1 Warnings: Keep out of the reach of children under 6 years of age. If accidentally swallowed more than used for brushing, seek professional assistance or contact a Poison Control Center. ?Laclede Inc.

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Sooo the big call came today. My bunion surgery is scheduled for July 14th at the Georgetown hospital. I should be happy but I have mixed feelings about this. That ugly protrusion is one of the few ties I have to my mom. She died 17 years ago and she had bunions soooo.... I know its weird but the bunion connection tied us together in a way. We both had bunions. Can I say that we were bunionettes?

I have to let mine go. It's betrayed me and started hurting like heck. Initially, I thought that the throbbing was some psychic means for mom to send me messages. Some sort of morse code being tapped out on my throbbing toe. VISIT YOUR DAD MORE! GO CHECK ON YOUR
OTHER, HIS LIFE IS A MESS! Perhaps, there is something to it but I can't take it anymore. The only message that I am getting is how much THE THING HURTS!!

Just like with my root canal, I will have to mourn the loss of my body part. I've been talking to it lately, trying to reason with it. Explaining my decision. HECK IT HURTS! It has to understand that I do not want to deal with the pain. My good friend, Heather suggested that I just deal with the pain. She said that there was responsibility and noble sacrifice in opting not to cut it off. She added, "think about your mom". Well, I have thought about it. I'm going to get a few pair of soft socks, purchase a pair of over sized crocs and countdown the days till Bunion Liberation Day on July 14th.

The best top 10 >>> bunion surgery

The big day arrived. Finally, I was going to the hospital that fices ugly (and painful) feet. My appointment (in case you forgot) was for 8:16.
I left home at 7:00 a.m. because I was worried about traffic jams and other sundry conditions. This is a country where a chefetz chashud (suspicious item) can have rush hour traffic ground to a halt for the better part of an hour. However, yesterday there was clear sailing and I arrived at the hospital about 7:45.
I found the outpatient clinics and took my number to check in. In Israel, the idea of taking a number has really caught on. And it is a wonderful invention. Before that you could be standing in line at the bank for 15 minutes and suddenly someone can walk over with coffee in one had, a croissant in the other and tell you that he was ahead of you because he was here Right.
So now there are the little number stubs like they use at the bakery in the US (or used to, at least) and they [are supposed to] keep people honest. I checked in, had all of the right paperwork, and was handed my file to lay on a table outside of room 32. Paper clipped to the front of the file was my bakery number. I was the first to arrive.
One by one, the other patients arrived. Nice people. There was the man who had made aliya from the Belgian Congo who lived in Modiin and was now managing a hotel in Jerusalem. There was the restaurant owner from Tel Aviv. There was the Israeli woman whose son lives in Queens who was looking forward to a trip to visit him. Oh yes, and there was the diva.
The Diva was a woman of about 60 who came into the foot clinic wearing stiletto sandals and a strapless tight lavender dress with cut-outs that extended in a triangular pattern from the hem of her dress to her panty line. Can we all say here ? She sauntered in at about 9:15. Oh, how would I know that if my appointment was at 8:16? Simple. The doctor who was supposed to examine the gathering hordes was not coming in. The doctor who was replacing him was stuck with an emergency [cup of coffee? use your imagination; this blog is G-rated]. So we all waited. We got to know each other. Didnt sing any folk songs, nor did we dance the hora (remember, our feet hurt). But was did get talk. With the young soldier male and the young soldier female (who was so very pretty that I couldnt imagine her looking any better had she been dressed like the Diva), with the other female soldier, Svetlana, who was there with her father (as Israelis would say, like two drops of water they looked so alike) who was fragile and delicate and lovely too.
It was only 11:15 when finally they got down to business. The nurse came out and called in. Diva!!!! Immediately Queens mother, hotel manager, restaurant owner, and yours truly called out, Hey! We all were here before her!!!! (There were others too, but those are the ones I remember.) The nurse informed us that we were wrong; she had been there long before us. We objected, but there was no convincing her.
A few minutes later, I and hotel manager were called into the other two examining rooms while Diva was examined by the one doctor. Diva not only was inappropriate in dress, but she proceeded to take close to 25 minutes asking stupid questions (they were walk-through examining rooms and all of the doors were open). I had a barely controllable desire to go stomp on both of her stiletto shod feet.
Finally the doctor got to me. Professional and thorough, he told me that:
1. After surgery I would be able to walk around on my heel.
2. I will not be able to wash my foot for 4-6 weeks.
3. I should be ready for 6 months of strong pain.
4. There are no surgeries scheduled for the summer.
5. I will receive a date of their choice for the surgery.
6. If I cannot make that date, I must come in for another appointment just like the one I washaving yesterday.
He then walked over to hotel manager leaving me with the nurse. I asked her why I would need to come back for the same exam if I didnt have the surgery the date they gave me. She explained, We can only remember you for three months. It was clear to me that with the volume of patients, it was likely he wouldnt remember me by the end of the hour. And, there is this neat invention called the x ray that could provide clues as to the bone structure of the foot
Oh well.

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