- Surgery, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIf you’re one of the millions of people suffering from chronic back and neck pain, figuring out how to get relief can feel like, well.....a pain in the neck! From lifestyle changes to medications, several approaches can help. But when chronic back and neck pain interferes with your daily life and keeps you from the activities you love, it may be time to talk to your doctor about other options, including surgery. Understanding your options for treatment and working with a specialist who will build a treatment plan just for you can make the process less overwhelming. Understanding causes of chronic back and neck pain The CDC says nearly 40 percent of U.S. adults report having back pain. Neck pain impacts fewer people but is still common, affecting 15 percent of the population. Pain can range from dull and constant to sharp and sudden, and typically, lifestyle changes and traditional therapies help. However, chronic back and neck pain — which lasts for months or even years — is usually caused by a specific event like an accident or fall, or changes in the spine due to age or a medical condition, and often requires surgery. The right treatment for you depends on the cause of your pain. Your doctor will conduct a full examination, including diagnostic tests like X-rays and scans, to better pinpoint the source of your pain, so they can best treat it. Lifestyle changes In some cases, you can improve back and neck pain with lifestyle changes, such as: Eating an anti-inflammatory diet that includes calcium and vitamin D for strong bones Maintaining a healthy body weight to reduce stress and strain on your neck and spine Practicing good posture when sitting or standing Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees Staying active with regular exercise to increase strength and balance Wearing comfortable shoes with a low heel If pain limits your daily activities, a physical or occupational therapist can help you learn how to move safely. And while bed rest may seem like a good idea when you don’t feel your best, it’s important to note that it can make back and neck pain worse. Traditional and complementary approaches Your doctor may recommend additional back and neck pain treatment, including over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain medications or muscle relaxers. In addition to traditional treatments, you may also benefit from complementary approaches such as tai chi and yoga. Surgery If you’ve tried everything else and are still in pain, surgery may provide relief. Surgical approaches to relieve neck and back pain range from minimally invasive to more complex open surgeries, and include: Fusing portions of the spine Removing bone spurs of the vertebrae of your spine Removing part of a herniated disc to relieve pressure Replacing damaged discs Stimulating the spinal cord Widening areas of the spine to relieve pressure on nerves Before surgery, one of our neurosurgeons will give you a thorough evaluation to make sure you’re a good candidate. They’ll review your medical history, the cause of your pain, your symptoms and your level of support after surgery. Your doctor will review the risks and benefits of the procedure with you so you can make an informed choice. Each surgery is tailored to the individual and their lifestyle and activity goals. Expert care for your chronic pain is within reach If you haven’t been able to find relief from chronic back or neck pain, reach out to Luminis Health Neurosurgery today. We’re ready to help you find relief from your pain and get you back to feeling your best. Authors Dr. Christopher Taleghani is internationally recognized as a leading minimally invasive surgeon specializing in complex spine and brain conditions. At Luminis Health, Dr. Taleghani treats disorders of the brain, nervous system, and spinal nerves.0
- Pregnancy & Birth, Women's Health, News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, MD – At a celebratory ceremony attended by community leaders, clinicians, and advocates, Luminis Health unveiled its new TeamBirth program today at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. The event marked an advancement in perinatal care, aimed at improving birth outcomes and reducing infant mortality across Maryland. With this launch, Luminis Health becomes the first health system in the state to implement this proven model of care.TeamBirth is an evidence-based initiative that promotes transparency and teamwork in perinatal care. At its core is a simple yet powerful tool: a planning board in each birthing room that allows patients, nurses, midwives, and physicians to align on care plans, share updates, and make decisions together. While aspects of this communication already occur, TeamBirth introduces greater consistency, clarity, and accountability. It enhances existing care practices by standardizing communication and fostering a shared approach, empowering teams to deliver safer, more respectful, and continuously improving care tailored to each patient’s needs. “TeamBirth is about making sure every patient has a voice during one of the most critical and joyous moments of their life,” said Dr. Monica Jones, system chair of Luminis Health Women’s and Children’s Service Line. “By fostering open communication and shared decision-making, we are adding another layer of safety and empowerment to the childbirth experience. Our teams are committed to delivering exceptional quality patient-centered care, while advancing birth equity for everyone who seeks our services.”Despite advances in modern medicine, the U.S. continues to face alarming rates of maternal and infant mortality overall. Luminis Health has taken significant steps in recent years to address the maternal health crisis and reduce disparities in care, including:Requiring implicit bias education and training for all maternal care staffImplementing strategies to reduce C-Section ratesEncouraging the use of doulas and nurse midwives to provide continuous, culturally responsive support during laborLaunched CenteringPregnancy® programs in both Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties to improve prenatal care through group-based education and support“At Luminis Health, we believe that by using evidence-based programs and listening to the people and communities we serve, we can end the maternal health crisis,” said Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health. “Eliminating maternal and infant mortality is one of the bold goals outlined in our Vision 2030 strategic plan, and our teams remain dedicated to expanding access at every level of care.” Today’s event featured remarks from Luminis Health executive and clinical leaders and patient advocates, a demonstration of the TeamBirth toolkit, and opportunities for attendees to engage with members of the labor and delivery team. The announcement took place in the Rebecca M. Clatanoff Pavilion, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Since 1995, the Thomas J. Frank Family Birth Center has been a trusted space for families, where more than 145,000 babies have been born, making it one of the busiest birth centers in Maryland and a special part of the community. The TeamBirth program is fully funded through the generosity of long-time supporters of the hospital. “We are deeply grateful to our generous donors whose support makes innovative programs like TeamBirth possible,” said Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “Their gifts directly enhances the quality of care we provide and help us better serve the families in our community—a community we’ve proudly served as a trusted place of care for more than 120 years.” Luminis Health also plans to implement the TeamBirth model at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham when it adds inpatient obstetric services. Scheduled to open in 2028, the new women’s health center is expected to deliver approximately 2,000 babies a year once fully operational.Implemented by Unravel Healthcare, TeamBirth was developed by Ariadne Labs, a joint center for health systems innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, MA.0
- SpecialtyOur experts specialize in treating common problems of the pelvic floor, including incontinence, organ prolapse, and discomfort from these issues. Our goal is to get you back to living a full, active life without having to worry about leaks, pain, or embarrassment. What Is Urogynecologic Surgery? Urogynecology is an area of women's health that builds on gynecology and obstetrics. Our doctors have an additional three years of training in female urology, neurology, and colorectal surgery. We focus on problems of the pelvic floor — the sling-like muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. Some of the conditions we treat include urinary and fecal incontinence, urinary tract infection, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic organ prolapse (when one or more organs in the pelvis slip down from their normal position and bulge into the vagina). When these pelvic health conditions don't respond to lifestyle changes, medication, or physical therapy, we offer a range of surgeries geared to your individual needs. Our surgical procedures are minimally invasive and use the latest technology., Why Choose Luminis Health for Urogynecologic Surgery? Our doctors combine knowledge from two areas of women's health — urology and gynecology. Many women suffer with pelvic floor problems for years, thinking incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse are “normal after having kids" or “just part of aging." We're here to tell you that these conditions are never normal — and you can do something about it. Here are some reasons to choose Luminis Health if you need pelvic floor surgery. We exhaust all other options before recommending surgery. We're not going to rush you into surgery that you don't need or want. First, we'll try more conservative approaches, such as lifestyle changes, medications, and physical therapy. We only recommend surgery if we don't see results from other treatments. We spend an hour with each surgical patient. In addition to a physical exam, we take the time to listen to our patients. We want to find out what bothers them, what their concerns are, and if they have questions about any procedures. Our surgery team is primarily made up of female doctors. We're well-known in the area for offering compassionate care — for women, by women. We have the busiest urogynecologic surgery site in Maryland. We are a high volume, state-of-the art surgical center. Because we're board-certified specialists, we often get referrals from other practices. We are leaders in the field. The American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology recognized the AAMC's Women's Center for Pelvic Health with the Safety Certification in Outpatient Practice Excellence for Women's Health. It is only one of two women's health practices in Maryland, and among only 95 in the U.S. to receive this designation., What to Expect from Urogynecologic Surgery Urogynecologic surgeries are usually performed under general anesthesia (that means you'll be asleep during the operation). You may be able to go home the same day. Some procedures are done in our office. Procedures like BOTOX® and urethral bulking may need to be repeated as their effects wear off with time. Your doctor may eventually suggest another type of surgery, such as a mid-urethral sling.0
- Behavioral Health, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogFrom the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we knew to be concerned about our physical health. But what we didn’t think as much about — especially since we couldn’t have foreseen the true impact it would have on our lives or the length of time it would last — is how it could affect our mental health. And today, we’re still learning. In general, we know the disruption we’ve all faced — from fear of the virus and drastic changes to our daily routines to complete isolation — isn’t good for us. And while some effects were already known, others reveal themselves every day. For example, we’re just now beginning to understand the connections between the pandemic and mental health issues that often plague teenagers, including eating disorders. Check out these recent observations: According to the National Eating Disorders Association, calls, texts and online chats to their helpline increased 58% from March 2020 to October 2021. A recent study shows a 25% jump in eating disorder-related hospitalizations for 12-18-year-olds overall. Girls 12-18 years old were hospitalized for eating disorders 30% more during the pandemic. The numbers are clear. And that means parents have a reason to be concerned. Learn more, so you can be ready if your teen needs help. What are eating disorders? Eating disorders are serious but treatable illness that affects people mentally and physically — and there are many types. People are most familiar with anorexia nervosa (self-starvation by severely reducing calories to lose weight) and bulimia (purging after eating an excessive amount of food). But other eating disorders can involve binge eating, obsessing over healthy eating, abusing laxatives and compulsive exercising. What’s behind the jump in eating disorders in teenagers? The pandemic pummeled teens’ daily routine and structure: Schools closed their doors and extracurricular activities, including beloved sports, came to a halt. But what hit them the hardest? Hanging with friends — a teen’s lifeblood — wasn’t an option (or was limited at best). Eating disorders are often related to control, so it makes sense that the uncertainty and stress of the pandemic could be a powerful trigger. When life feels turned upside down, someone with a tendency toward disordered eating could easily turn to controlling food — how much, what or when they eat — to feel like they’re in control of something. For example, stuck at home with less structure and more access to food, teens may binge-eat to deal with anxiety and stress. Then, if weight gain hits, they may go to the other extreme, restricting food and becoming overly focused on exercise. It’s no surprise: Social media fuels the fire. With school and activities limited, teens turned to their phones to feel connected to someone. They spent more time than ever scrolling through sites such as Instagram and TikTok. And although teens may feel less alone when they’re online, excess screen time exposes them to negative messages. What are signs of an eating disorder? Even today, with most schools and activities up and running again, stress and uncertainty still linger. Teens, like everyone else, are trying to live with the reality that COVID-19 is here to stay. Unfortunately, eating disorders continue to be how many teens try to cope. Changes in your teen’s regular eating and exercise habits are signs your teen may be struggling. Keep an eye out for these signs and take action if you notice: Defensiveness about food Obsessive workouts Preoccupation with counting calories Refusal to eat specific categories of food Skipped meals Sudden weight loss Also pay attention to what your teen’s saying. For example, comments about food — feeling guilt or anxiety about what they’re eating or not eating — or unhappiness about their body are red flags of a brewing eating disorder. Know how to help your teen Talking with teens can be tricky, but it’s the place to start if you suspect they’re using food or eating in an unhealthy way. Be direct and ask what’s going on without launching into a lecture. They’ll be more receptive to discussions in small doses. Focus on your concerns for their health, not body shape or size. Stumped for what those conversations should cover? Start with: Emotional eating. Help your teen understand how food can be a way people deal with emotions. Explain how talking through problems with friends, family or a counselor is a more effective (and healthy) way to cope with a problem. Healthy eating habits. Talk about eating when hungry and how to fuel their body to be healthy and strong. Make regular meals together a habit. Media messages. Help your teen understand that social media, television shows and movies portray unrealistic (and often “doctored”) body types as normal. Positive body image. Ask your teen how they feel about how they look, and explain how healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes. Remember, as a parent, you’re setting an example. Practice the attitudes about food, eating and body image you want them to have. Reaching for ice cream for comfort after a tough day at work or bashing your “thunder thighs” every time you put on shorts is a message you’re sending that eventually sticks. You may think your teen isn’t listening or watching, but they are. Finally, don’t assume eating issues are “just a phase” your teen will grow out of. Research shows dealing with concerns about an eating disorder early and getting professional help are key to successfully treating it. Start by scheduling an appointment with your teen’s primary care provider. Sometimes it takes hearing something from someone other than mom and dad for a message to get through. But it may take more. If so, your doctor can offer the appropriate support or referral your teen needs. This article originally ran in the Enquirer Gazette. Authors Lauren Fitzpatrick, MD, medical director, Luminis Health Pediatric Emergency Department.0
- Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogHolding a red marker, Teri Boss writes ‘thank you’ on the inside label of each newly sewn gown. She sketches a tiny red heart beside every ‘thank you’ she writes. These gowns do not have an ordinary purpose. They adorn the backs of nurses at Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) who are working every minute to save the lives of COVID-19 patients. Boss is one of nearly 40 community volunteers who have sewn almost 900 isolation gowns for the nurses of AAMC. In April, during our patient surge, the sewers produced 50-80 gowns a day. “I wanted to give back and take care of my country during this difficult time,” said Boss, a first-generation Polish American, who came to the U.S. in the early 2000s. “The love I’ve received from people in this country inspired me to help.” Teri Boss is one of nearly 40 community volunteers who have sewn almost 900 isolation gowns for the nurses of AAMC. Despite great efforts to conserve gowns during the pandemic, the supply was running low and more were needed for nurses caring for COVID-19 patients. “None of us were sleeping. We were worried about running out of isolation gowns,” said Joan Twigg, RN, who coordinated the gown conversions. “We have to protect our health care workers during this pandemic and back then we were seeing a lot more COVID-19 patients than we are now.” Sewing Angels Twigg said AAMC obtained 800-1,000 lab jackets to help with the shortage. They were not an easy replacement to isolation gowns because they opened in the front. Isolation gowns open in the back to prevent contamination. Twigg took some of the lab jackets home to see if she could make them work. Despite creating a prototype isolation gown, which sealed up the front and opened in the back, she still had a problem. “I brought them into the hospital and said ‘If we could just get a room full of sewers for two days we can do this,’” Twigg said. This was not an easy fix due to social distancing and visitor restrictions enacted by the hospital to protect patients and staff. Twigg contacted a friend who is a family and consumer sciences (FACS) education teacher to see if she could help or knew anyone who could. The friend connected her to FACS teacher, Lenore Martin, who reached out to her sewing network. Martin, who has sewn for years, reached out to fellow sewers and created a video to show them how to put the gowns together. With that, the volunteer COVID-19 sewing gown operation was born. Volunteer Lenore Martin sews gowns for AAMC nurses. “I think all of us feel great about being able to help,” Martin said. “It’s not a lot that people who aren’t qualified in the medical field can really do right now. I’m just really thankful that our sewing abilities are able to be beneficial to the hospital and to the nurses.” The gowns are made out of tent-like material and are washable for reuse. The reuse factor solved the gown shortage problem. Volunteer Julie Bays Julie Bays is a FACS teacher and a lifelong sewer. She learned from her grandmother at the age of 10. She calls sewing her “happy place” and was glad to join the team of sewers. Helping was personal for her. “I have a daughter who works in the emergency room,” Bays said. “I admire how she gets up and goes to work every day with such a willing spirit. It was really nice that I could do a little bit to help the people on the front lines.” The volunteers’ work has not gone unnoticed. They have received notes of thanks from nurses and photos with them wearing their gowns. Some AAMC nurses refer to the network of sewers as angels. They have sent pictures holding up signs that say, “Thank you, sewing angels.” Making a Difference Bays and other volunteers have also sewn masks and scrub caps for AAMC during the pandemic. Volunteer Monette Callahan Like Bays, Monette Callahan also has a personal connection to health care. Her son is an ICU nurse who is currently caring for COVID-19 patients in Baltimore. Regularly he tells her of the challenges that front line workers are facing. “My son says, ‘This is for real mom. This is scary. It’s not like what you see on social media,” Callahan said. Ultimately, Callahan wants to do her part to support her son as well as others working on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I enjoy sewing the gowns because I know I’m helping and making a difference in my own way,” she said. “I have the skills, I have the machine and I have the time. Why not go ahead and help?” Learn ways you can help our community.0
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