Chronic pain is a relentless adversary that affects millions of people worldwide, significantly diminishing their quality of life. Conditions like fibromyalgia, sciatica, and chronic lower back pain can be particularly debilitating, and often resistant to conventional treatment methods. There is a promising approach that has been gaining attention for its potential to provide long-lasting relief: dry needling. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of dry needling and its role in managing chronic pain conditions.

Understanding Dry Needling:

Dry needling, offered by Lakeside Sports Chiropractic and Physical Therapy in Cornelius, NC, is a therapeutic technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific trigger points within muscles. Unlike acupuncture Cornelius NC, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing the body’s energy flow, dry needling is grounded in modern Western medicine. It targets muscular trigger points, also known as my official trigger points, which are tight knots of muscle fibers that can cause pain and discomfort.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

Dry needling works through various mechanisms to address chronic pain:

Muscle Relaxation: The insertion of needles into trigger points stimulates a localized twitch response in the muscle. This twitch response leads to relaxation, reducing muscle tension and improving blood flow to the affected area.

Pain Modulation: Dry needling can activate the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms. It stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers, helping to alleviate pain.

Improved Range of Motion: By relaxing tight muscles and reducing pain, dry needling can enhance joint mobility and improve the range of motion, making it an effective option for conditions like sciatica and chronic lower back pain.

Addressing Chronic Pain Conditions:

Let’s take a closer look at how dry needling can be applied to specific chronic pain conditions:

Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness. Dry needling can help by targeting trigger points in the affected muscles, providing relief from the chronic pain that plagues fibromyalgia patients.

Sciatica: Sciatica is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, leading to sharp, shooting pain down the leg. Dry needling can relieve the muscle tension and inflammation that contribute to this condition, offering relief from the debilitating pain.

Chronic Lower Back Pain: Many individuals suffer from chronic lower back pain, which can be caused by various factors, including muscle tightness. Dry needling can release tension in the lower back muscles, leading to reduced pain and improved mobility.

The Long-Term Benefits:

One of the most significant advantages of dry needling is its potential for long-term relief. Unlike some treatments that merely mask symptoms, dry needling can address the root causes of chronic pain by targeting trigger points and improving muscle function. With regular sessions and a comprehensive treatment plan, many individuals experience significant and sustained pain relief.

Dry needling Cornelius NC is often used as part of a multidisciplinary approach to pain management. It can complement other therapies, such as physical therapy, exercise, and medication, to create a holistic and effective pain management strategy.

Chronic pain conditions can be life-altering, but dry needling offers hope to those seeking long-term relief. By targeting trigger points, promoting muscle relaxation, and stimulating the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms, dry needling has emerged as a valuable tool in the arsenal against chronic pain. If you or a loved one is battling chronic pain, consider exploring dry needling as part of your pain management journey. It may be the key to unlocking a life with less pain and more freedom. Visit Lakeside Sports Chiropractic and Physical Therapy in Cornelius, NC, to learn more about how dry needling can help you regain control over your life and well-being.

Is it simply a flighty memory, or is it something more? Many people find themselves worrying about their older loved one’s health as they witness their memories decline.  Yet, your worries are valid. The earlier you can catch Alzheimer’s, the better. Early intervention can improve your loved one’s quality of life by getting them the care they need.   

If you’re wondering whether your loved one may be developing Alzheimer’s, then here are five key signs to look for.

Daily Disruptions

As opposed to simple forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s disrupts our daily lives on a regular basis. Routine tasks like getting dressed or preparing food suddenly start to become a problem for someone with this neurodegenerative disease. If seemingly simple tasks that were not difficult for them before suddenly start to become a problem, then it’s certainly a warning sign.

Repeating Questions

Does your loved one ask a question and a few moments later ask the same one? Initially, it may seem harmless, however, if they’re consistently repeating questions that you’ve already answered then this is a big red flag.  If they can’t seem to retain information that was just discussed, it’s time to talk with the healthcare professional and get their opinion.

Difficulty Solving and Planning

One common symptom of Alzheimer’s patients is that they have an inability to plan ahead.  Whether it’s solving a simple mash equation or planning their day, you’ll start to notice them struggling to plan or think ahead. Even the simplest task can start to completely overwhelm them and leave them feeling frustrated, and maybe even angry. These kinds of challenges indicate cognitive decline without a doubt.

Disorientation

People who have Alzheimer’s often become disoriented and don’t know what time it is or where they are. They may get lost somewhere simple like the grocery store, and forget how they even got there. They may think they’re ten years in the future, or 20 years in the past. If you notice your loved one is confused about sequences of events, it’s nothing to ignore.

Language Struggles

Have you noticed that your loved one has a hard time getting the right words out or explaining themselves? Perhaps they even stopped mid-conversation because they’ve completely forgotten what it is they’re talking about. They may even have trouble understanding what you’re saying which can make social interactions very challenging for them.

Mood Swings
Alzheimer’s can lead to significant mood shifts. They might be extremely irritable one minute and elated the next. If you notice your loved one is displaying unpredictable behavior and moods combined with one or several of the previous symptoms listed, then it’s probably time to seek professional help to determine their diagnosis and start appropriate care planning.

Age-related eye diseases pose significant challenges to the elderly population, affecting their quality of life and overall well-being. As the aging global population continues to grow, the importance of ophthalmologists in managing age-related eye diseases becomes increasingly crucial. These specialized medical professionals play a pivotal role in diagnosing, treating, and preventing various eye conditions associated with aging. In this article, we will explore the vital role of ophthalmologists in managing age-related eye diseases, focusing on their expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and the impact of their services on patients’ lives.

Diagnosing Age-Related Eye Diseases

Ophthalmologists are highly trained medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions, including those related to aging. They possess in-depth knowledge of the complexities of the human eye and its structures, allowing them to accurately diagnose age-related eye diseases.

Through comprehensive eye examinations, ophthalmologists can identify common age-related eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and presbyopia. Early detection is critical for timely intervention, and ophthalmologists’ expertise ensures that patients receive prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans.

Utilizing Cutting-edge Technologies

The field of ophthalmology has witnessed remarkable advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Ophthalmologists are at the forefront of adopting and utilizing these cutting-edge tools to enhance their ability to manage age-related eye diseases effectively.

High-resolution imaging devices, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography, aid ophthalmologists in capturing detailed images of the eye’s internal structures. This enables them to detect subtle changes indicative of disease progression and tailor treatment plans accordingly.

Moreover, laser technologies and minimally invasive surgical techniques have revolutionized treatments for age-related eye conditions. Ophthalmologists can perform procedures like cataract surgery, glaucoma laser therapy, and retinal interventions with greater precision and reduced risks, leading to better patient outcomes.

Preventive Measures and Patient Education

Beyond diagnosis and treatment, ophthalmologists play a crucial role in advocating preventive measures and patient education to manage age-related eye diseases effectively. They emphasize the importance of regular eye check-ups, especially for individuals over the age of 40, to monitor and detect any early signs of eye conditions.

Ophthalmologists also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and risk factor management to reduce the risk of developing age-related eye diseases. These may include promoting a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, quitting smoking, and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which can contribute to eye problems.

Impact on Patients’ Lives

The impact of ophthalmologists in managing age-related eye diseases goes beyond clinical expertise. Their interventions can significantly improve patients’ quality of life and independence in their later years.

For instance, cataract surgery can restore clear vision, enabling patients to carry out daily activities with ease and confidence. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma and AMD can prevent further vision loss and preserve remaining vision, allowing patients to maintain their visual independence.

Patient-centred care and empathetic counselling are also integral components of an ophthalmologist’s approach. They help patients understand their condition, treatment options, and potential outcomes, alleviating anxiety and fostering trust in the therapeutic process.

The role of ophthalmologists in managing age-related eye diseases cannot be overstated. These specialized medical professionals bring a wealth of knowledge, cutting-edge technologies, and a patient-centred approach to their practice. Through early diagnosis, advanced treatments, and preventive measures, ophthalmologists significantly impact the lives of aging individuals, preserving their vision and enhancing their overall well-being.

If you are seeking reliable and specialized eye care services, consider visiting Dr. B Khantsi’s website, www.drbkhantsi.co.za. As a reputable ophthalmologist, Dr. B Khantsi and their team are committed to providing top-notch care, using the latest technologies and evidence-based approaches to manage age-related eye diseases effectively. Remember, regular eye check-ups and early intervention are crucial in safeguarding your vision as you age. Take proactive steps towards maintaining healthy eyes and consult a qualified ophthalmologist today.

Over the past few decades, vision correction procedures have revolutionised the eye care industry, making significant strides in improving patients’ visual acuity and overall ocular health. These options range from minimally invasive laser surgeries such as LASIK and PRK, to more invasive procedures such as implantation of intraocular lenses. Understanding the details of these procedures, their benefits, risks, and eligibility criteria is crucial when considering vision correction.

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)

LASIK surgery has become the most common refractive surgery procedure, promising to correct common vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It involves creating a thin flap in the cornea using a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser, reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with an excimer laser, and then repositioning the flap.

• Benefits: The most significant advantage of LASIK is its speed of recovery, with most patients reporting improved vision within 24 hours. The procedure is relatively painless, and most patients require no corrective eyewear post-surgery.

• Risks: While rare, potential risks include dry eyes, glare, halos, double vision, and in extreme cases, loss of vision.

• Eligibility Criteria: Candidates should be over 18, have stable vision for at least a year, and have a suitable corneal thickness. Those with autoimmune diseases, a history of keloids, or pregnant women may be deemed unsuitable.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is another form of refractive surgery similar to LASIK. The main difference is that instead of creating a corneal flap, the thin outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed entirely and allowed to regenerate over time.

• Benefits: PRK is often recommended for individuals with thin corneas, where a LASIK procedure might not be suitable. It also eliminates the risk of flap-related complications.

• Risks: PRK recovery is generally slower and potentially more uncomfortable than LASIK, with complete vision recovery taking several weeks. There is also a slight risk of infection, corneal haze, and vision disturbances.

• Eligibility Criteria: PRK is suitable for those with stable vision, a refractive error within certain limits, and a sufficient corneal thickness. Like LASIK, those with autoimmune diseases or pregnant women may not be ideal candidates.

Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

Intraocular lens implantation involves replacing the natural lens of the eye with an artificial one, usually to treat cataracts or severe refractive errors. There are several types of IOLs, including monofocal, multifocal, and accommodative lenses.

• Benefits: IOLs can provide a permanent solution for cataracts and can also correct refractive errors. Depending on the type of lens used, patients may not require glasses for certain distances.

• Risks: Potential risks include infection, inflammation, lens dislocation, retinal detachment, and decreased visual acuity.

• Eligibility Criteria: IOLs are primarily used in patients with cataracts. However, they can also be considered in people with severe myopia or hyperopia that can’t be corrected with other methods.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

SMILE is a newer, minimally invasive procedure that uses a femtosecond laser to create a small, lens-shaped bit of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea which is then removed through a small incision, altering the shape of the cornea and thus correcting vision.

• Benefits: SMILE is a flapless procedure, reducing the chance of complications associated with flap creation. It also results in fewer dry-eye symptoms than LASIK and PRK.

• Risks: Though rare, complications can include under correction, overcorrection, infection, and visual disturbances such as halos or starbursts.

• Eligibility Criteria: SMILE is generally used for the correction of myopia and astigmatism. Candidates should have stable vision, and should not be pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a collagen vascular, autoimmune, or immunodeficiency disease.

While all these procedures aim to improve vision, choosing the best one is a personalized decision. Factors such as the specific refractive error, age, lifestyle, overall health, and individual expectations from the surgery play a critical role. It’s crucial to have a detailed discussion with your ophthalmologist who can guide you to the most suitable vision correction option, ensuring optimal results.

Having difficulty hearing can take a toll on everyday activities, from communicating with loved ones to participating in social activities. Fortunately, there are a variety of hearing aid accessories available to help those who are struggling with their hearing. From hearing aid cleaning tools to wireless streaming devices, these hearing aid accessories can provide improved sound quality and convenience for those with hearing loss. In this article, we will explore the various types of hearing aid accessories available and how they can help you Hear Better, Live Better.

Hearing Aid Cleaning Tools

Hearing aids need to be cleaned regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and that they are free from wax and debris. Cleaning tools such as brushes, picks, and wipes can help keep your hearing aids in top condition. Additionally, cleaning tools can help prolong the life of your hearing aids and reduce the amount of time spent on maintenance. Brushes, picks, and wipes are essential accessories for anyone with hearing aids, as they can help keep your hearing aids functioning properly.

Wireless Streaming Devices

Wireless streaming devices are a must-have accessory for anyone with hearing loss. These devices allow you to stream audio directly from your smartphone, tablet, or other device directly to your hearing aid. This can provide improved sound quality and convenience for those with hearing loss. Wireless streaming devices can also help reduce background noise, allowing you to better focus on conversations and other sound sources.

Other Accessories

In addition to hearing aid cleaning tools and wireless streaming devices, there are other accessories available to help those with hearing loss. These include ear molds, which provide a custom fit for your hearing aids and help ensure a comfortable fit. There are also directional microphones, which can help focus on sound sources in front of you, and noise-canceling headphones, which can help reduce background noise. All of these accessories can help improve the sound quality and convenience of your hearing aids.

Hearing aid accessories can be an invaluable asset for anyone with hearing loss. From hearing aid cleaning tools to wireless streaming devices, these accessories can provide improved sound quality and convenience. With the right hearing aid accessories, you can Hear Better and Live Better.

Hearing loss is a serious medical condition that can have a significant impact on your quality of life. With the right hearing aid accessories, you can take control of your hearing and make sure you have the best possible hearing experience. From hearing aid cases to wireless streaming systems, there are a variety of accessories that can help you hear better and live better. Investing in the right accessories can help you enjoy the benefits of your hearing aids and make sure you get the most out of your hearing device. You can check Roger Phonak hearing accessories for more information.

Nobody ever anticipates the onset of wrinkles and fine lines. But despite our best efforts, most of us will eventually have drooping skin on our faces, necks, chins, and arms due to the natural aging process. Loss of skin elasticity can occur for a number of different reasons, including advancing age, excess body fat, and illness. This can be really annoying. We all know that anti-aging creams don’t really do much to slow down the aging process. However, there is hope; non-invasive skin tightening treatments are available. These treatments will leave your skin looking and feeling healthier and younger than ever before. Here are some benefits of skin tightening procedures. 

More collagen

Hair, fingernails, ligaments, and skin all include the protein collagen, which gives these tissues their structure and strength. As you age, collagen synthesis slows and you lose that youthful glow and suppleness.

Skin tightening treatments, on the other hand, use a gentler form of heat to stimulate the body’s natural generation of collagen and new cells from within. The heat also causes the collagen in your skin to tighten by contracting the fibers of the collagen already there. 

Lessening of wrinkles 

Your skin loses its elasticity and becomes wrinkled and saggy, making you look old and tired in the same way as a deflating latex balloon loses its fullness and tautness. In areas where your skin seems saggy, skin tightening treatments can help restore its normal contours. Wrinkles fade away and the skin becomes smoother as collagen strengthens beneath the surface.

Youthful Look

Facelift surgeries can be risky because they might cause your skin to stretch and pull in ways that don’t feel natural. Non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures use your own body’s inherent properties to restore volume where it’s missing and tighten the skin in a way that’s completely natural. You can also get rid of acne breakouts.

Advantages to the body as a whole

In general, tightening and other skin treatments are associated with the face, but aging affects all of your skin, not just your face. Divine Laser can tighten and smooth out the skin everywhere it has loosened and wrinkled.

Risk-free and Pain-free

All of the methods used for skin tightening by reputed clinics are safe and have been certified by the FDA for use on sagging, aged skin. Some non-invasive proceduresuse ultrasonic waves to reshape the skin from the inside out while some usethe minimally invasive technique in which a few tiny needle-sized punctures in your skin are made to transmit radiofrequency energy deep within. Skin tightening treatments may sound scary, but rest assured they are all painless and have minimal side effects.

No Rest Days

In contrast to the lengthy recovery times associated with traditional facelift surgery and other surgical skin tightening treatments, hese procedures need minimal to no downtime following the procedure. After your appointment, you are free to resume your day as usual. In other words, if you want a facelift but can’t afford to take off work for a couple of weeks, this is a great alternative.

Knee pain is a very common issue that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a number of things, such as arthritis, overuse, or an injury. If you are experiencing pain in the knee joint, the first thing you should do is see a knee pain physiotherapist. Your initial visit to see a physiotherapist would ensure a correct diagnosis and proper management of your knee pain. This can be achieved through a series of examinations such as gait evaluation, palpation, range of motion measurements, strength measurements, balance assessment and/or swelling measurements.

Determining if your knee is not bending because of pain or something inside the joint itself is very important. One of the reasons your knee may be locked up is due to a meniscus tear, loose bony fragments or muscle tears. Using an x-ray or an MRI scan to help determine the cause is recommended. If you hear poping or cracking sound at the knee joint. That is an indication of serious cartilage damage, and you should see your doctor as soon as possible. These noises are heard when the joint surfaces are not gliding smoothly over one another, causing friction and the wearing down of the cartilage between them.

Physiotherapy is an excellent way to manage your knee pain and prevent it from getting worse. Physiotherapists can provide you with a personalized exercise program to help improve your strength and flexibility, as well as advice on how to modify your activities to avoid further aggravating your knee pain. If you are suffering from knee pain, don’t wait

Once your physio has a diagnosis, they will create a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. This may include exercises to help strengthen and mobilize your knee, as well as pain relief treatments. Some common treatments include manual therapy (such as sports massage), ice/heat therapy, and acupuncture. Physiotherapy can help to speed up your recovery and get you back to your regular activities as soon as possible. If you are looking for a physiotherapist in the Singapore, look no further than BMJ Therapy. Our team of Registered Physiotherapists are experts in treating knee pain and can create a treatment plan that is specific to your needs. Contact us today to book an appointment.

Physiotherapy can help you reduce your pain, improve your mobility function, and get you back to your regular activities as soon as possible.So wait no longer, start today to enjoy live pain-free.

Navigating life is difficult. While there are great things about being a person- like falling in love, living in an accepting community, experiencing the joy of a new baby, or traveling to different places, there are also tough times. Losing a job, going through a divorce, and struggling with addiction are just a few of the difficult challenges people face.

When faced with these tough challenges, some people are able to take things in stride and still lead a functional life, but many other people also have difficulty handling challenges on their own. If you’re in the latter group there’s no shame in seeking help from a professional. 

Here are 4 signs that you should see a psychologist.

You’re Experiencing Long-Term Sadness or Depression

If you’re feeling down for long periods and it’s impacting your ability to function in daily life, it’s time to seek professional help. Left untreated, depression can lead to serious health problems like chronic body aches, heart disease, stroke, and even death.

What are some signs that you’re depressed? 

• Loss of appetite 
• Social isolation
• Severe apathy
• Mood swings 
• Fatigue 
• Insomnia 
• Suicidal thoughts 

A psychologist will help you understand your depression and create a treatment plan to address it. 

You’re Having Trouble Coping With a Traumatic Event

If you’ve gone through a traumatic event like a natural disaster, sexual assault, or the death of a loved one, it’s normal to feel scared, helpless, and alone. But if these feelings persist over a long period and are impacting your ability to function in daily life, it’s time to seek professional help.

What are some signs that you’re suffering from post-traumatic stress? 

• Nightmares
• Chest pains
• Insomnia 
• Angry outbursts 
• Numbness

A psychologist will help you work through your trauma and develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with the aftermath of the event. 

You’re Struggling With Addictive Behaviors

If you’re struggling with an addiction to drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, or other behavior, seek professional help. Addictions typically lead to serious health problems like liver disease, heart disease, and stroke. As well as financial problems, job loss, and relationship problems.

What are some signs that you’re addicted to a behavior? 

• Social isolation
• Withdrawal 
• Secrecy
• Loss of control 

A psychologist will help you understand your addiction and develop a treatment plan to break the cycle.

You’re Experiencing Relationship Problems

If you’re having trouble in your relationships with your spouse, partner, family, or friends, consider seeking professional help. Relationship problems can lead to feelings of isolation, and anxiety.

What are some signs that you’re experiencing relationship problems?

• Dwindling conversation 
• Resentment
• Constant fighting 
• Mood swings

A psychologist will help you understand the origin of the relationship problems and how to address them. 

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to seek professional help from a psychologist. A psychologist can help you properly handle your challenges. Treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Since he was younger, one topic that always fascinated Griffith Littlehale was psychology.

Griffith Littlehale has been a Toledo, Ohio, resident since 2004. After graduating from St. Francis de Sales High School in 2018, he’s accomplished many things – from being an All-American Swimmer to working with local churches on events like food drives to help the homeless.

Currently, he is studying psychology – a topic near and dear to his heart. It’s a subject that some people tend to overlook, but it is also one that he thinks could serve to benefit us all. This is true for a wide range of different reasons, all of which are worth exploring. 

The Power of Psychology: Breaking Things Down

For Griffith Littlehale, one of the biggest benefits of studying psychology – even on a passive level – comes by way of how it helps us understand each other in a more comprehensive way.

Not only do you get a better insight into your own personal growth and self-development, but a lot of that insight is reflected on those around us as well. We’re in a better position to see the people in our communities not just as a collective but as individuals. Their contributions become clearer. Their influences become known. We see how we’re all related and that in turn can make a massive change in the way that we think about one another on a daily basis.

Indeed, this improvement of your understanding of others is one of the cornerstones of empathy – something that is desperately needed, especially given everything going on in the world right now.

Another essential advantage of embracing psychology comes by way of how it helps people better communicate with one another. Everything from our emotions to our body language can be used to better understand the ways in which we interact with one another. The better you understand the people around you, the better you’re able to interpret them and communicate with them – all of which can only help improve our standing as a collective.

From a professional point of view, embracing psychology can also help a great deal when it comes to the development of one’s future career. If you were to become a team leader in your profession, for example, it would be helpful to understand people as both individuals and as how they work together. The same is true in any type of leadership position. Therefore, if you wanted to advance up the corporate ladder in the most efficient way possible, developing a better understanding of the principles of psychology would be one way to do it.

In the end, for Griffith Littlehale, this entire discussion relates back to the same basic premise. The more we understand the way the human mind works, the easier it will be to apply that knowledge forward. We’ll become better communicators, more empathetic, and will have a greater knowledge of everything around us – which in and of itself may be the most important thing of all. 

You’ve heard the adage, “teamwork makes the dream work.” It refers to improved performance and outcomes when people work together on a shared goal or task at hand. In professional contexts, a goal is often described as a project and successful completion doesn’t just require a team. It involves a group of people with different areas of expertise and experiences working in various roles to achieve success. When it comes to fighting cancer, a multi-disciplinary approach has led to significant advances forward in treatment under a model designed by Neil R. Sharma MD, who is a nationally recognized leader in oncology and endoscopy. Learn more about the advantages of multi-disciplinary synergy for treating cancer.

Seeing the Value of Multiple Disciplines

To gain insight into the importance of a multi-disciplinary team, you can start by considering the human body itself. The human body is composed of cells, tissues, organs, and systems that work together to complete the processes and functions that allow us to live and be healthy. Various combinations of body parts, each with an essential function or discipline, work together to perform a process in the body. Similarly, the treatment of sickness, whether through the body’s own healing processes or with the aid of medical professionals, requires multiple contributors for a successful outcome.  Cancer can arise from any organ – there for cancer is nont one disease and best outcomes involve incorporation of all specialists within that organ-based disease state. Dr. Neil R. Sharma is a leader in the Parkview Health System and currently serves as President of the Parkview Cancer Institute where he collaborates with other physicians and medical experts to advance knowledge, research, and cancer treatment. He assumed the role as President with the goal to better understand and to revolutionize the medical care model.  After studying other well known cancer institutes across the country – even in the best of centers there is an opportunity to go beyond the traditional medical oncology, surgeon, radiation oncologist approach. Specialists such as GI, pulmonology, palliative care, orthopedics, physical medicine and rehab all could play a major role if properly incorporated into the treatment paradigm.   Furthermore, in Dr. Sharma’s model the clinics and care teams would be aligned not by specialty (traditional “sections”), but rather they would be designed into care teams aligned to the disease state and patient.  One clinic for lung cancer, one clinic for GI cancer, and so on.  Additionally – all specialists would review each case in detail before and after treatment in a truly multi-disciplinary but also comprehensive tumor boar where not just treatment but diagnosis, stage, treatment and disease progression would be reviewed by all specialists involved.  The plan personalized to the patient.  Dr Sharm’s model focused on the care team truly understanding one another’s perspective and placing the patient in the center.

Acknowledging the Past

In oncology or cancer treatment, a multi-disciplinary team, or MDT, involves collaboration between medical professionals of various specialties to improve patient care and the effectiveness of treatment. Some cancers involve multiple diseases that require different therapies. Location of cancer, patient symptoms, and physical and psychological effects require various approaches to managing patient care. The MDT approach emerged during the 1980s when chemotherapy was added to surgery and radiotherapy for cancer treatment. It is believed that an MDT strategy works out better for patients than the care of a single doctor. In the new model all specialties have an equal and valued voice allowing for innovations in one field to be appreciated and incorporated into other specialists knowledge an potential of multi-modal care and novel research on combinations of treatments to be explored and refined.

Embracing the Future

Leading the Parkview Cancer Institute, Neil R. Sharma MD understands the value of assembling and engaging with various medical experts, leaders, and stakeholders for the benefit of cancer patients. He has collaborated with the Parkview Research Center to conduct many clinical trials to evaluate therapies for various types of cancer, including breast cancer, head and neck cancer, skin cancer, and gastrointestinal cancers among others. In his role as President, he has developed a team of medical professionals and administrative leaders to develop and leverage innovative technologies and best practices that center the needs of patients. 

Dr. Sharma understands the importance of multi-disciplinary means, methods, and techniques to provide comprehensive benefits for those undergoing cancer treatment. Better outcomes not only improve the lives of the people served by the cancer institute itself, but the truly innovative model allows for the right grass roots collaboration and innovation which can advance the fight against cancer which benefits all of us.