Health & Wellness

Column: Is arthritis causing your hip pain?

Hip osteoarthritis is often the cause of hip pain as we age. Osteoarthritis, or “wear and tear” arthritis, refers to the breakdown or degeneration of the cartilage that coats and protects the bone surfaces where there is movement in a joint. Unfortunately, our body does not repair or regenerate new cartilage when it becomes injured and wears down. The loss of the protective joint cartilage leads to friction between bone surfaces which can cause joint pain and stiffness.

Column: Digging out emotionally

We’ve weathered an intense series of storms; a seemingly endless cycle of too much wind, rain, and snow.

And while winter is known as a tough time of year, this year has felt especially challenging. From power outages to snow cancellations to days of rain and flooding to higher food prices and service delays … it’s okay to say, things feel hard right now. They are hard.

It’s normal to feel tired and overwhelmed. It’s normal to feel like you can’t fathom another day of snow removal. It’s normal to search Zillow houses in Maui and dream about a warmer place to live.

Column: Stay safe and informed about flooding

Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and mountain communities, especially those in or around burn scars from recent fires, are at heightened risk. Residents and visitors are urged to consider safety preparedness measures as major atmospheric river activity, or wet storms, continue to move toward our region.

Tahoe Douglas Fire hosts blood drive at Kahle Community Center

Event Date: 
January 20, 2023 - 11:00am

STATELINE, Nev. - To help fill a critical need for blood, Tahoe Douglas Fire and Douglas County have joined with Vitalent Blood Services for a blood drive on Friday, January 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kahle Community Center.

All people donating will be entered into a drawing for two tickets to the Super Bowl, accommodations and fan parties.

The blood drive will be in the Kahle Center Tallac Activity Room, 236 Kingsbury Grade Road, Stateline, NV.

To make an appointment, visit https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwa/appointment/phl/makeAppointment

Column: Power outage safety

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Power outages during or after winter storms have become a common occurrence in our region. When the power goes out, especially for prolonged periods of time, being prepared can help reduce anxiety and keep you and your family safe until the lights come back on.

Column: Reframe your resolution

Setting goals is crucial to leading a life you love, having a sense of fulfillment, and being happy. The new year marks a great time to chart a course for personal, professional, and health-related goals. By exercising mental performance, you can be successful. Grab a piece of paper and get ready to break down those New Year Resolutions into actionable goals that keep you accountable and mentally focused.

Column: Are you aware of Urgent Care?

Illness and injury often pop up without warning. A slip on ice leads to a swollen ankle, kids wake up with a sudden fever, or we may experience a blockage in the ear that’s affecting hearing. While every scenario is different, knowing where to go in a health emergency can cut down on fear and anxiety in the moment.

Free Wellness Webinar: Sleep Hygiene- How to Get a Better Night's Rest

Event Date: 
January 12, 2023 - 5:00pm

Wellness Webinar: Sleep Hygiene: How to Get a Better Night's Rest

Thursday, January 12, 5:00 p.m - 6:00 p.m. with Dr. Greg Tirdel, Barton Sleep Lab.

Free Barton Wellness Outing

Event Date: 
January 9, 2023 - 10:00am

Free Barton Wellness Outing on Monday, January 9 at Pope / Baldwin Bike Path from West End, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Research shows time in nature can improve your mental and physical health. Enjoy the benefits of nature with a stroll led by a Barton Wellness Advocate. For more information, visit BartonHealth.org/WellnessOutings. Weather dependent.

Free at-home COVID tests available

The U.S. government has authorized free at-home COVID-19 tests to be mailed to residents free of charge upon request. The tests started shipping on December 19.

With a rise of cases of COVID-19 this season, free tests are being offered via the mail to help curb the spread as families and friends gather for the holidays. There are currently 11 El Dorado County residents hospitalized with COVID-19, one in South Lake Tahoe at Barton, and two in the ICU.

Barton Skilled Nursing Facility earns a top rank from U.S. News & World Report

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Skilled Nursing Facility has been recognized as a Best Nursing Home for 2022-23 by U.S. News & World Report. The facility earned Best Nursing Home status by achieving a rating of “High-Performing,” the highest possible rating, for their Short-Term Rehabilitation program. Barton is proud to add this achievement to a list of growing accolades pointing to high-quality care, consistently performing above average among hospitals nationwide.

Column: Snow removal safety

Lake Tahoe is known for its snowfall with multi-day storms dropping deep, often heavy, snow. And while our region embraces these storms, removing snow is a necessary and strenuous task.

Shoveling
Shoveling snow requires significant exertion and should be approached like an exercise. Don't eat a big meal or drink alcohol before or soon after shoveling. Dress in layers and cover your mouth and nose to limit the cold air you inhale. Warm up and stretch out the muscles of the back, arms, shoulders, and legs before heading outside.

Column: Spine Pain: Typical or Terrible?

Back and neck pain is a common reason people seek medical help or miss work. It can range from mild, dull, annoying pain, to an unexpected, often debilitating episode that can completely disrupt one's life. An estimated 80-100% of adults will have one or many of these events in their life.

El Dorado County Health & Human Services helps families grow healthy through WIC-supported programs

Finding nutritious food on a limited budget can be a challenge. The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program is a federally funded nutrition program administered by the California Department of Public Health that serves pregnant women, women who have recently been pregnant, infants, and children up to their fifth birthday.

Carson Valley Medical Center community benefit tops $560,000 in 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. - Investing in the local community is all part of the plan for Carson Valley Medical Center (CVMC) and last year was no exception with $562,305 worth of services and sponsorships provided. Health and wellness services including health fairs, free or low-cost screenings, youth sports physicals, and support groups make up the majority of the community benefit number.

Column: Health Through the Holidays

his winter could bring the spread of a trio of viruses—another COVID-19 wave, an early and harsh flu season, and the spread of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These viruses result in coughs, runny noses, and sore throats, and can occasionally turn serious for infants and older adults.

Through the holidays, many of us will return to pre-pandemic activities like social gatherings where viruses are likely to spread, so it’s important to understand that the immune system needs to be recharged, and how to give it a kick-start.

Elections have health consequences: Depression, anxiety, and the 2020 presidential election

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - One would assume Americans feel depressed and anxious during elections, but a study and paper by University of Nevada (UNR) Associate Professor Dr. Sankar Mukhopadhyay now has the data to show this was true during the 2020 presidential election.

Column: Eating right with diabetes and some recipes!

November is National Diabetes Month, a great time to explore the role that nutrition and lifestyle choices play in our lives. Although eating habits can be difficult to change, simple adjustments can be beneficial to manage diabetes and promoting better health.

Following a healthy meal plan and being active can help keep your blood glucose level—also called blood sugar—in your target range, a key component to managing diabetes. To manage your blood glucose, you need to balance what you eat and drink with physical activity and diabetes medicine, if you take any.

Flu and RSV cases on the rise in South Lake Tahoe and the county, is a COVID-19 rise next?

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Respiratory syncytial virus, Influenza, and even COVID-19 activity is increasing both in the community, California, and across the U.S.

Column: Pelvic Health 101

Event Date: 
November 17, 2022 - 5:00pm

Many people live with pelvic health concerns for years without knowing that help is available. About one-third of women in the United States have pelvic floor disorder—a condition that often develops after bearing children and getting older. While commonly addressed in women, both men and women have pelvic floors and can have concerns that affect their quality of life.

Column: At the core of core strength

Strong core muscles offer so much more than just six-pack abs; a stronger core is one of the best physical improvements you can make for yourself. Having a strong core helps us prevent injuries and perform our best in even the most routine activities. Whether it’s lifting a bag of dog food, or swinging your strongest golf drive, having a strong core can help support a pain-free life!

Barton Hospital nurse Christy Yetter awarded quarterly DAISY award

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The DAISY Award for extraordinary nurses was awarded to Christy Yetter, a registered nurse with Barton’s Family Birthing Center. The award is in recognition of the clinical skill and compassionate care nurses provide to create a superior experience for patients and their families.

Yetter was nominated by Gina Locicero and her husband, who received her medical support through a recent childbirth experience at Barton Memorial Hospital.

Barton Health welcomes new family medicine physician to expanding primary care practice

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Health has welcomed Dr. S. Bret Chipman, a board-certified family medicine physician, to its network of primary care providers.

Dr. Chipman will see adult and pediatric patients at Barton Primary Care at 1108 Fourth Street, South Lake Tahoe, Calif.

“Barton is committed to providing accessible, quality care to the region,” said Barton Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Matthew Wonnacott. “Regular visits to a primary care provider are important to identify and manage health risks before they affect your life, and we are pleased to welcome

Barton Health hosting free Community Health Fair Thursday

Event Date: 
October 20, 2022 - 3:00pm

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Health is hosting a free Community Health Fair at Bijou Elementary School on Thursday, October 20 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Open to all community members, this event is an opportunity to meet community care providers, receive preventative health screenings, and explore ways to manage your health and wellness.

Column: Boots and Bunions - Fall Weather Tips for Your Feet

Quality of daily life is closely linked to the health of our feet. As we transition to colder weather, many of us make footwear changes that reflect changing activities and comfort. Footwear is important for traction, warmth, preventing slips and falls, and support for daily activities, but footwear that is not properly fitted can cause discomfort and can result in painful conditions, such as the development of a bunion.

With use on the rise, El Dorado County holds "Impact of Vaping on Our Youth" town hall

Event Date: 
November 2, 2022 - 6:00pm

The El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency, in partnership with Motherlode School District, is inviting residents of El Dorado County to attend a special town hall meeting focused on youth vaping.

Column: Who, what, where, why of breast cancer screening

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, after skin cancer. Each person’s cancer risk is different, a combination of our genetics, lifestyle, and the environment around us. While a cancer risk like smoking can be avoided, inheriting certain genes which increase your risk for cancer cannot. Regular cancer screenings are important and may find cancers early when treatment is likely to work best.

Medicare open enrollment virtual workshop set

Event Date: 
October 25, 2022 - 9:30am

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - A free, one-hour virtual workshop to help Medicare recipients understand what drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans will be available in El Dorado County in 2023 is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The workshop is open to the public with a one-hour question-and-answer period to follow it. The workshop, which will be held via Zoom, is presented by the non-profit El Dorado County Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP).

Influenza Vaccine Event at Kahle

Event Date: 
October 5, 2022 - 10:00am

During the month of October, Douglas County Community Health Clinic invites you to get your flu shot at one of its four drive-through clinics.

These vaccine clinics will be held during the following:

Kahle Community Center
236 Kingsbury Grade Rd, Stateline, NV, 89449
October 5, 2022 from 10am-12pm

Douglas County Community and Senior Center
1329 Waterloo Lane, Gardnerville, NV 89410
October 12, 2022 from 9am-12pm

Topaz Ranch Estate
3939 Carter Dr, Wellington, NV 89444
October 18, 2022 from 10am-12pm

Indian Hills Senior Center
3394 James Lee, Carson City, NV 89705

Location

Kahle Community Center
236 Kingsbury Grade Road, Stateline, NV 89449
United States

Barton wellness program helps reduce risk of major illness through MIND Diet

Event Date: 
October 17, 2022 - 5:00pm

Barton Health is offering a new Wellness Program designed to help reduce the risk of major illness through diet. The Mind Diet, or "Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay" Diet, focuses on preventing and managing Alzheimer's dementia and other chronic diseases. Guided by two Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, Becky Espinel, RDN, and Kristen Travis, RDN, the course will take place on Monday, October 17, from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. at the Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness.

Ski Conditioning classes start October 11

Event Date: 
October 11, 2022 (All day)

PT Revolution is launching its Ski Conditioning Class for the Fall, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays for six weeks starting October 11.

This class will be led by performance coach Nick Ward, who currently works with Olympic skiers and has worked with the US Ski Team. The class will focus on the strength, agility, and muscle & cardiovascular endurance required to enjoy your best ski season yet.

The 6-week class is just $300 and participants will also have FULL ACCESS to the gym and Recovery Lounge.

Are Your Knees Ready for Skis?

Event Date: 
September 29, 2022 - 6:15pm

PT Revolution is holding a community discussion on September 29 at 6:15 p.m. about the importance of getting your body ready for ski season.

US Ski Team physician Katie Gollotto will present on many of the knee injuries she sees in her work with the US Ski Team. Coach Nick Ward, performance coach for Olympic skiers Travis Ganong & Marie-Michele Gagnon, will talk about the keys to ski season preparation.

The public is invited to the free event.

PT Revolution is located in the Crossing at Tahoe Valley, 2038 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe.

Free community flu vaccine clinics in El Dorado County

The El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency, Public Health Division will begin conducting no-cost community flu vaccination clinics starting on September 29, 2022, with additional clinics offered through October and into November. Seasonal influenza vaccine will be administered primarily in flu shot form, but a limited supply of FluMist® will be available for children and adults.

Column: 5 things you should know about suicide

Suicide is the 10th leading overall cause of death in the United States and number two among people between the ages of 10 and 34. It was responsible for nearly 46,000 deaths in 2020. It deeply impacts individuals, families, and communities.

Every person can play a role in helping to prevent suicide by knowing a few key things and where to get help.

Column: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Help is three digits away

Event Date: 
September 15, 2022 - 5:00pm

Many people experience suicidal crises or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need. Suicide is a serious public health problem, and affects people of all ages. It is a leading cause of death in the United States, with 45,979 deaths in 2020. The number of people who think about or attempt suicide is even higher, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

DEA warns of rainbow-colored fentanyl used to target youth

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is advising the public of an alarming emerging trend of colorful fentanyl available across the United States. In August 2022, DEA and its law enforcement partners seized brightly-colored fentanyl and fentanyl pills in 18 states. Dubbed “rainbow fentanyl,” this trend appears to be a new method used by drug cartels to sell highly addictive and potentially deadly fentanyl made to look like candy to children and young people.

Column: Breastfeeding support is available

August is National Breastfeeding Month — a time to promote breastfeeding and advocacy to ensure all families have the opportunity to breastfeed. Certified lactation consultants, like the team at Barton’s Family Birthing Center, help parents navigate the journey of breastfeeding and achieve their feeding goals.

Breastfeeding is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, offering a great balance of nutrients for a baby while boosting their immune system and helping protect against a variety of diseases and conditions.

Column: Keeping score on men’s health

Nearly 60 percent of men do not regularly see a doctor for preventive care; often men only seek a medical specialist when they are seriously ill.

Whatever the reason for avoiding regular health checkups, putting off important screenings can be a dangerous reluctance. To make managing one’s health more approachable, men can focus on three main elements: fitness, physical health, and mental health.

Fitness

Barton Memorial Hospital receives 5-star rating for quality and patient safety

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Barton Memorial Hospital received a Five-Star Rating from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the highest rating issued by the federal oversight agency. This national distinction recognizes Barton Health’s quality measures and its continued effort in providing safe, quality health care to its patients.

Column: Don’t let achilles tendonitis keep you off the trail

In our mountain oasis, we have access to world-class summits, rivers, and trails to enjoy. For any high-intensity activity, it’s important to ease into increasing distance and speed incrementally as fitness improves. Before you head on your next long-distance adventure or over challenging terrain, consider the mechanics of your body and understand common issues so you can minimize your risk for injury.

Barton wellness event offers week of free health assessments for men

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On September 26-30, 2022, Barton Health will host the Men’s Health Combine, an appointment-based event providing complimentary two-part assessments at the Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness. This free health assessment program is aimed at educating and motivating men to make more informed choices for health management and disease prevention.

Barton Health's John Truesdell, RN, Recognized with The DAISY Award

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – John Truesdell, registered nurse (RN) with Barton’s Emergency Department, was selected as a recipient of The DAISY Award for extraordinary nurses. The award is in recognition of the clinical skill and compassionate care nurses provide to create a superior experience for patients and their families.

Melt fat and build muscle with Emsculpt Neo - Try it out for FREE Bus Tour

Event Date: 
August 3, 2022 - 10:00am

Melt fat and build muscle with Emsculpt Neo. They are touring with this toning treatment and will be in South Lake Tahoe for a free demo on Wednesday, Aug 3 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Elevated Fitness.

Emsculpt Neo is amazing. It's the only body sculpting treatment that combines 2 therapies in a single treatment that MELTS FAT and BUILDS MUSCLE at the same time. Come try a FREE DEMO in Tahoe. We will have 3 machines available to try and see for yourself why Emsculpt Neo is the best-selling toning treatment.

Price: Free Limited spots available.
Reserve your spot:
(530) 318-8666

Location

Elevated Fitness
4000 Lake Tahoe Blvd #8 South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
United States

National 988 suicide and crisis lifeline starts Saturday

The mental health version of 911 will launch on Saturday, July 16, and it is hoped this easy-to-use system will fill in the current gaps in crisis services. When everyone with phones in area codes with a 988 prefix had to start using a full area code when dialing locally, the reason was to prepare for a National Suicide and Crisis Network.

988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route all callers in the United States to a national hotline, something mental health professionals hope will reduce barriers and encourage people to seek help.

Column: Support is available for Substance Use Disorder

One-hundred-thirty-six people die every day from an opioid overdose in the United States. Opioid use disorder—or substance use disorder—disrupts normal life, and results in devastating consequences for individuals and families. Watching someone you care about struggle with opioid addiction is incredibly difficult. Though the pathway to help can seem complex, understanding the issue and knowing about available resources is the first major step toward recovery.

Column: Overcome Joint Pain for Improved Quality of Life - Free Wellness Webinar

Event Date: 
July 14, 2022 - 5:00pm

In an active lifestyle, joint health is a top priority. Your joints—hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, wrists—allow you to perform sports and daily activities and are needed to move and thrive. Over time, an active lifestyle may lead to wear and tear—the eventual breakdown of protective cartilage—causing friction in the joints. This friction ultimately results in joint pain and injury.

Alpine Medical Practice of South Lake Tahoe joins Barton Health

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Alpine Medical Practice has become part of the Barton Health family. Barton Health announced Wednesday they welcome Dr. Patrick Martin, Dr. Allison Monroe, and Abigail Haskell, PA-C, to its network of care providers. This addition ensures new and existing patients are connected to a stronger continuum of care with more access to health services right here in the Lake Tahoe basin.

Saturday Summer Camp

Event Date: 
Repeats every week until Sat Oct 22 2022 except Sat Jul 16 2022, Sat Sep 03 2022.
July 9, 2022 - 9:00am
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July 23, 2022 - 9:00am
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July 30, 2022 - 9:00am
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August 6, 2022 - 9:00am
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August 13, 2022 - 9:00am
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August 20, 2022 - 9:00am
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August 27, 2022 - 9:00am
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September 10, 2022 - 9:00am
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September 17, 2022 - 9:00am
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September 24, 2022 - 9:00am
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October 1, 2022 - 9:00am
Event Date: 
October 8, 2022 - 9:00am
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October 15, 2022 - 9:00am
Event Date: 
October 22, 2022 - 9:00am

Thank you for your interest in the Tahoe Trail Blazers for our Summer Saturday series! Saturdays in Tahoe are made for adventure! Rain or shine we will meet at a trail head each Saturday and have an awesome day filled with wonder and adventure in our own backyard. All trails are in the Tahoe basin or the Meadow on Mt Rose highway.
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https://signup.com/go/LoxWVYf
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Sat 09 Jul 2022 09:00A - 04:30P
Sat 23 Jul 2022 09:00A - 04:30P
Sat 30 Jul 2022 09:00A - 04:30P
Sat 06 Aug 2022 09:00A - 04:30P
Sat 13 Aug 2022 09:00A - 04:30P

Location

Meadows
Mount Rose Highway Incline Village, NV 89512
United States

Column: Adventure Checklist

Longer days and warmer weather invite adventure. But even the most experienced explorer should prepare for unknowns when hitting the trail.

This checklist can help:

Buddy up. Adventuring with a partner is not only more fun, but it can be crucial in an emergency. Also, share your plan with another trusted person before venturing out, including where you are going and when you plan to return. Stick to your plan.

Know your limits. Choose activities that suit your physical condition. The pace should be comfortable for the slowest member of your group.

Barton Rehabilitation installs new gait and safety technology for improved treatment efficiency

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Rehabilitation Services has invested in new technology to help patients relearn to walk and achieve mobility goals. The Bioness Vector Elite Gait and Safety System is designed to improve treatment efficiency, reduce patient falls, and prevent clinician injuries. Utilizing the system, Barton Rehabilitation will continue to rehabilitate patients recovering from stroke and amputations, orthopedic, brain and spinal cord injuries, and other neurocognitive disabilities and return to daily activities in a safe manner.

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