Health in a Minute
Q. My mom recently caught herself before she fell, but it really scared her. Would it make sense for her to come in for an evaluation even though she hasn’t had a serious fall yet?
A. Yes! Many patients who participate in physical therapy for balance training have not had a serious fall but many close calls. Our balance relies on vision, sensation, and the vestibular system consisting of two small organs in the inner ear. When a problem arises in this system, people may feel unsteady, dizzy, or like they are on a rocking boat. These symptoms can be hard to describe, but they are very common. Through comprehensive evaluation, physical therapists are able to assess balance from a holistic standpoint, review how medications may affect stability, evaluate vestibular function, and help determine fall risk. From there, an individualized education and exercise program is developed. Siskin Hospital and Siskin Outpatient Therapy combine advanced technology with expert care to keep balance patients feeling safe and confident.
Kyle Binkley, PT, DPT
Director of Outpatient Therapy, Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation
Q. My husband recently started a new medication for blood pressure. How often should he have his labs checked to make sure everything’s staying balanced, and what are some signs that the medication might need to be adjusted?
A. It’s important to be sure your husband’s new blood pressure medicine is working safely. Most people need their first lab check within a few weeks to one to three months after starting, then every six to 12 months if results stay normal. Watch for signs the dose may need adjusting, including dizziness, swelling in feet or hands, fatigue, muscle cramps, changes in urination, unexplained weight changes, or a persistent cough (with some medicines). Encourage him to record home blood pressure readings and share them at his next visit. If symptoms appear or readings stay too high or too low, he should contact his healthcare provider before making any changes.
Chris Snyder, PA-C, MMSc
Physician Assistant, Cempa Community Care
Q. By the end of the day, my legs feel heavy and ache, especially behind the knees. Is that likely just from standing all day, or could it be something more serious?
A. Leg heaviness and aching, especially behind the knees, are common complaints – often from standing for long periods. When you stand all day, blood can pool in your leg veins due to gravity, causing fatigue and discomfort. However, if this happens frequently, it could indicate an underlying issue such as chronic venous insufficiency or central venous obstruction, which, if left untreated, can lead to the development of varicose veins, permanent leg swelling, chronic leg wounds, and even increase your risk for developing venous clots. If you notice any of these symptoms, I recommend elevating your legs when resting, wearing compression stockings, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight. If the symptoms persist or worsen, a simple ultrasound can help determine if your veins are healthy or if further treatment is needed.
Francis Cuozzo, MD, FACS, RVT
Vascular Surgeon, Vascular Institute of Chattanooga
Learn More: Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Q. I’ve been told I might eventually need joint replacement surgery, but I’d like to delay it if possible. What kinds of nonsurgical treatments could help manage pain and maintain function for now?
A. Arthritis can be pretty painful as it creates inflammation inside a joint. I always tell my patients that they will know when the time is right for a joint replacement. Until then, we have a good number of things to try to slow down inflammation. Topical rubs and creams, especially Voltaren, are a good start. If that doesn’t work, using ibuprofen or Aleve by mouth as a nonsteroidal medication for inflammation is helpful (watch the stomach and kidneys). If those still aren’t enough, then my protocol is to try a cortisone injection to decrease inflammation, followed by a set of gel injections (typically approved for knees) called hyaluronic acid to try to lubricate the arthritis and prevent it from coming back, which can be repeated every six months.
Lee Radford, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon, Bradley Orthopedics, Vitruvian Health
Learn More: Understanding Arthritis
Q. I have recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and my A1C is higher than I’d like. How can I figure out the best plan to lower it and reduce my risk for long-term complications?
A. A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can feel overwhelming, but there are clear steps to lower your A1C and protect long-term health. Start with a personalized plan focused on nutrition, medication, and physical activity. Meet with your doctor or a diabetes educator to tailor your diet, emphasizing a Mediterranean-style approach with low-glycemic carbohydrates in moderation. Next, discuss medication options that balance efficacy, side effects, cost, and added benefits. Many modern therapies not only lower A1C but also reduce risks of heart, kidney, and liver disease while supporting weight loss. Finally, aim for at least 75 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly to improve insulin sensitivity. At River City Endocrine, I individualize treatment plans to help patients reach their goals sustainably.
Kathryn Dinh, MD
Endocrinologist, River City Endocrine
Learn More: Weight Gain and Type 2 Diabetes, Discussing Diabetes
Meet the Author
Lindsey Clute, BA
Lindsey Clute is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications with a minor in international studies. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Lindsey worked in social media marketing, managing social media accounts and supporting various marketing initiatives. In addition, she worked as an editorial intern for a local media group. Today, Lindsey leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
Lindsey Clute, BA
Lindsey Clute is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications with a minor in international studies. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Lindsey worked in social media marketing, managing social media accounts and supporting various marketing initiatives. In addition, she worked as an editorial intern for a local media group. Today, Lindsey leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
