Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) is one of the primary causes of knee pain and stiffness. It erodes the cushioning cartilage, allowing bones to rub against each other. Age, sex (females are more susceptible), excess body weight, past joint injuries, genetics and repetitive high-impact activities all increase your risk. “It’s [...]
When stress is overwhelming or sleep feels like a distant dream, the 4-7-8 breathing technique is a powerful tool that can help reduce anxiety and promote calm, according to CentraState psychiatrist Ankur Desai, MD. Here’s how this simple exercise works: gently inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, relax [...]
Rehabilitation is often an integral part of a patient’s recovery following surgery. But research also suggests that “prehabilitation” – exercise, healthy eating and mental prep before surgery – results in better outcomes for patients. In fact, a British Medical Journal study found that prehab exercise was associated with a [...]
Americo Cirelli quit drinking and smoking more than a decade ago. While these changes were a win, he subsequently began to eat too many unhealthy processed foods. “Whenever I felt pressure or anxiety, I’d eat – and it was usually a sleeve of cookies,” the 55-year-old Manalapan resident explains. “When [...]
You yawn, hit the snooze button three times and immediately check your email. Before you know it, you’re overwhelmed and behind. But what if you could swap that scatter for focus simply by changing how you start your day? A purposeful morning routine doesn’t just sound good – it works. [...]
Think you don’t have enough outdoor space to start a garden? Think again. “Container gardening can help you create your own oasis of fresh herbs and veggies and enjoy the many health benefits that come with gardening,” says CentraState health coach and avid gardener Neftali Flores, RN. “Gardening reduces [...]
Spring is the start of peak tick season in New Jersey. While ticks can be removed, the illnesses they often leave behind can be serious if left untreated. Ramanasri Kudipudi, MD, an infectious disease expert at CentraState, shares information on common tick-borne illnesses found in our area, prevention tips [...]
It’s easy to forget about hydration when the temperature drops. Staying hydrated in winter can feel less pressing without summer heat or perspiration as reminders. However, according to Nancy Peters, MD, primary care physician at Family Practice of CentraState, maintaining your fluid intake is just as vital in winter [...]
If you’re constantly tired, suffer from headaches and find it hard to concentrate, you may think your busy life is catching up to you. But these symptoms could also signal iron deficiency — a nutrition deficiency impacting millions of people worldwide, particularly women. Iron deficiency is often missed because [...]
A new year is an ideal time to revisit your health goals – and gut health is a good addition to that list. Improving gut health can enhance the way your digestive system functions, help sharpen your thinking, reduce stress and restore your body during sleep. The Marvelous Gut [...]
