at 216-983-1500. At University Hospitals, our mission is you. University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center – Beachwood Schools Sports Medicine Program Benefits Student Athletes niversity Hospitals, UH Ahuja Medical Center and Beachwood Schools are collaborating to develop and sustain innovative health, wellness and education initiatives for Beachwood students. In summer 2013, Beachwood High 99 Richmond RoadSchool collaborated with UH wood, Ohio 44122 Corporate Health and hired a University Hospitals certified athletic 73 UHAhuja.org to provide professional trainer sports medicine coverage to every Beachwood Bison team. “Each day I oversee all aspects of pre-game preparation,” says Julie A. Brough, AT, head athletic trainer, Beachwood High School. “I also respond to on-field injuries and refer players to physicians, physical therapists and the UH Ahuja Medical Center Emergency Department as needed.” Brough, UH Ahuja Medical Center and Beachwood Schools are now preparing for middle and high school players’ pre-participation physicals for the 2014-15 season. U Pictured: Susan V. Juris, president, UH Ahuja Medical Center; Richard A. Markwardt, PhD, superintendent, Beachwood Schools; and Julie A. Brough, AT, head athletic trainer, Beachwood High School. “With UH’s involvement and Julie’s commitment and expertise, we have access to the best clinical resources to keep our kids healthy and get our injured players safely back in the game,” says Ryan Peters, athletic director, Beachwood High School. “Our goal is to build the best athletic program in Ohio, and working with University Hospitals and UH Ahuja Medical Center is taking us to that level.” Beachwood Schools is also working with the hospital and UH EMS Institute to launch a CPR training program for its coaches, and UH Ahuja Medical Center and Julie Brough are developing a wellness education program for students. “We are grateful for the enthusiastic cooperation and support UH brings to the table,” says Richard A. Markwardt, PhD, superintendent, Beachwood Schools. “Our students are benefitting greatly as a result.” The sports medicine initiatives represent an aggressive beginning for the UH Ahuja Medical Cen- ter-Beachwood Schools collaboration. “An exciting synergy is created when our hospital and healthcare system work closely with Beachwood Schools,” says Susan V. Juris, president, UH Ahuja Medical Center. “Our organizations are having a profound impact on the entire community.” To receive a Beachwood Schools pre-participation physical, parents and student athletes should download the 2014-2015 Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) pre-participation physical evaluation consent form at www.e-ppe.com, then print and bring the completed form to exam day at Beachwood High School, Friday, August 1, 5 - 8 p.m. For more information about the University Hospitals-Beachwood High School Sports Medicine program, call UH CorporateHealth at 216.488.4770. Integrative Approaches to Women’s Health By Daniel Shank, MD M any women’s health issues, including PMS, menopause, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and osteoporosis, may be approached in an integrative fashion, adding non-traditional approaches to the conventional treatment plan. Often, this integrative approach results in a better outcome at a lower overall cost. Below are evidence-based integrative approaches to common women’s health concerns: Supplements: Evidence strongly supports the benefits of taking calcium and vitamin D supplements. These have been shown to lower the risk of and help improve osteoporosis as well as lessen symptoms of PMS. Soy is another commonly recommended supplement, although results of studies have been mixed. Some women seem to benefit more than others do. It may be worth a try for women experiencing menopausal symptoms and menstrual irregularity. Generally, I would advise against the concentrated supplement for someone who has a history of breast cancer, but I would recommend including whole soy foods like tofu, edamame, and soy milk for everyone. Herbal approaches: The three major traditions in herbal medicine are Ayurveda (Indian), Chinese, and Western. There is some degree of overlap in the herbs employed, but each tradition has its own approach. There is a growing body of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of many of these herbs for a variety of health-related issues, including menstrual irregularity and painful menstruation. These preparations are typically much less expensive than conventional medications. Acupuncture: The scientific support for treatment of PMS and menopause is mixed due to the difficulty of conducting controlled studies. That said, many women have found relief from their symptoms with no negative side effects when employing this ancient treatment. Stress management: There is no doubt that many illnesses are exacerbated by stress, including many women’s health issues. Integrative approaches, such as mind- ful meditation, stress resilience training, yoga and even massage therapy, can help lower stress and increase a sense of wellness. They are highly successful and cost-effective approaches to augmenting conventional care. Dr. Shank is an Integrative physician with the Connor Integrative Medicine Network at University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center. CIMN offers a variety of integrative treatments and services, including acupuncture, Ayurveda, Chinese herbal medicine, integrative psychiatry, hypnotherapy, massage, myofascial release therapy, mindfulness training, S.M.A.R.T. (stress management and resilience training) and yoga therapy. Appointments may be made with Dr. Shank or for other services at 216.285.4070. 44 Beachwood Buzz n July 2014