2010 Vancouver Olympic Games

All of us here at Empire Health and Wellness would like to congratulate all of the amazing athletes at the 2010 winter games. With the games coming to a close we begin to reflect on the inspiring performances by the worlds best athletes. Thank you to all of the athletes, coaches, physicians, therapists, and trainers who have made these games not only possible but a great success. May all the participants enjoy the remaining days of the 2010 winter games and return to their homes safely.

Sincerely,

The staff of Empire Health and Wellness

http://www.empirehwc.com/

Seminar Wednesday Night!
Empire Health and Wellness Center's very own Brendan Sullivan, PT , CSCS will be leading an informative talk entitled "Exercise & Osteoporosis," Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2010.The seminar will be held from 7:00 - 7:45 pm at Empire Health & Wellness Center, located at 8 Century Hill Drive in Latham. For more information about this great, educational session or to RSVP please feel free to call EHWC at 518-690-4406 or visit our newly updated website, http://empirehwc.com/

Laughter is Good for the Heart

Researchers have been studying laughter for years to determine whether it can result in real physiological changes in the body. Often when you laugh your facial muscles contract, your heart rate increases, and you become incorporated in a social activity to which people have been benefiting for years. Studies in the past years have been difficult to conduct due to small sample sizes. For example, it is difficult to discern the differences in physiological responses from laughing vs. screaming. But it is certain that laughing regularly does show increases in:

• Blood flow

• Immune Response

• Blood sugar levels

• Relaxation and sleep

In a study from the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, researchers found that people who had heart disease were 40% less likely to laugh in different situation than counterparts of the same age sample without heart disease. While it is still difficult to determine wither or not laughter can truly reduce your risk of heart disease, many studies are starting to provide similar results.

With all the new research and ideas on this topic the question still arises - How do I incorporate this into my life? The best way to use this information is to take time to enjoy various situations combined with lifestyle changes such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator and eat fresh healthy foods. Tune in next Wednesday for more insights into the world of health and fitness. Next Week: 9 ways to keep cold and flu symptoms at bay

Guest Blogger - William R. Milhizer PT, DPT

Symptoms and Treatment of "Runner's Knee"

“Runner's knee” is a common and troublesome condition affecting many people who take part in activities, like running, which involve an excessive amount of knee bending. Overuse, trauma, poor alignment and muscular imbalances can increase your risk of injury and lower your mileage. If you display any of the following symptoms, there are several options and methods of treatment to decrease your pain.

• Pain behind the knee
• Pain bending the knee
• Pain negotiating stairs
• Swelling
• Audible crepitus (cracking and popping) within the knee

In the treatment of "runner's knee" a qualified medical practitioner, such as a physician and physical therapist, can work with you in the treatment of your symptoms and help to return you to your normal activities. Some options for treatment of "runner’s knee" include:

• Rest, Ice, Elevation, Compression (R.I.C.E)

• Stretching and strengthening exercises

• Shoe inserts or orthotics

As people heal at different rates, it is hard to estimate how long it will take to return to normal activity. Through simple planning and teamwork, a fun and enjoyable pastime does not have to be stressful or hurtful. Tune in next Wednesday for more insights into the world of health and fitness. Next week - The Benefits of Laughter

For more information about weight management, or to schedule a consultation for personal training, feel free to contact us at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at www.empirehwc.com.

http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/runners-knee

Does eating late at night lead to excessive weight gain?

A new study conducted by researchers at Northwestern University is challenging our ideas of optimal times of food consumption. This study, although performed on animals, has shown that eating at the “wrong time” can likely contribute to weight gain.

During a six week period, two groups of mice were fed the same amount of food, consisting of about 60% fat, at different 12 hour cycles (day vs. night). Being that the mice were nocturnal, it was expected that their optimal time for consuming food would be at night. At the end of the six week study, the group of mice eating during their “wrong time”, simulating humans eating at night, demonstrated a 48% weight increase. The mice that ate at their optimal time showed only a 20% increase.

More research on human populations is needed to develop an optimal or “correct time” to eat. It is still recommended that we eat three complete meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and a smaller portion of food if you're craving a night snack.

http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20090903/eat-late-put-on-weight

For more information about preventing weight management, or to arrange a consultation for personal training, feel free to contact Empire Health and Wellness Center at 518-690-4406 or visit our website http://www.empirehwc.com.