Health

By Andrius Giedraitis, MD

Pain management has become one of the most challenging aspects of modern medical care. In the wake of the well-publicized opioid crisis, we, as physicians, must balance effective pain treatment with responsible prescribing practices, especially when it comes to opioid medications.

A balanced approach to pain management is essential. While opioid medications play an important role in treating certain types of pain, they represent just one tool in our comprehensive treatment arsenal. Modern pain management incorporates multiple therapeutic approaches, including non-narcotic medications, physical therapy, and interventional procedures.

By Lindsey Buddelmeyer 
Leadership Education & Training Specialist, Blanchard Valley Health System

Did you know that one in three visits to the emergency room is due to a fall? These visits require, on average, a four-day hospital stay. They also result in some level of loss of independence and decreased quality of life. Many people who experience a fall become more afraid of the likelihood of falling, which results in them being less active and at a higher risk for nursing home placement. 

There are two primary reasons that people experience a fall. Physiological factors involve a decrease in strength and balance, while environmental factors involve our physical surroundings and play a role in whether we are able to do things independently and safely. The good news is that there are some very meaningful changes that you can make to your home and routine in order to decrease your chances of falling. You will be surprised by the home hazards that are considered dangerous or a contributing factor leading up to a fall. Take this opportunity to commit to at least one change in order to make your home safer. 

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