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NOVEMBER 2024
847-515-8970 • www.KineticPTS.com
Home for the Holidays Football, Family, and the Fine Art of Fending Off Food Comas
As the scent of cinnamon and turkey tantalizes our senses, it’s clear that Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This year, my family and I are keeping it local in Illinois, heading to my parents’ place for a day filled with what else? Family, football, feasting, and perhaps too much fun on the old‑school Wii. Thanksgiving is a big deal in our house — especially this year since the Chicago Bears are playing the Lions on Thanksgiving Day. And let me tell you, in my family, being a Bears fan isn’t a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. We’ll all be huddled around the TV, yelling advice that I’m sure the coach is just dying to hear through the screen. Of course, not all of us are fans of just sitting around watching sports. My mom is the master of family games. One year, we set up a “Family Feud” game in the garage, and let’s just say things got competitive. Our family games involve plenty of hollering, banter, inside jokes, and memories in the making. The kids have their tradition, too — waging war in Mario Kart. The sounds of laughter and the occasional threats echo through the house as they play. Us “grown- ups” try to join in, but we’re not
even considered competition for them. They blow us out of the water, and we’re finished before we even get started.
the stuffing, who am I to say no? But that’s the thing about Thanksgiving. It’s not just a meal; it’s an endurance sport. And no matter what, you have to save room for a
Now, let’s talk turkey — and stuffing, and mashed potatoes, and those unbelievably delicious cinnamon rolls my aunt makes that probably have double the butter, sugar,
turkey sandwich later — sometimes even the same night. At the end of the day, Thanksgiving holds a special place in my heart
and cinnamon they should. I only eat turkey maybe twice a year, so when Thanksgiving rolls around, I keep my eyes on the turkey prize. I would be happy with just the golden turkey, stuffing, and all the turkey sandwiches that come days after. On the other hand, my wife, Emilie, could easily skip the turkey. She’d swap all the Thanksgiving staples for a plate of pasta if she had her way. But tradition is tradition, and the boys? They’re in their teenage eating prime. The amount of food they can put away is nothing short of a Thanksgiving miracle. Meanwhile, I’m not 19 years old anymore, so I’ve learned my lesson over the years: Moderation is key. Sure, I say that now, but when faced with round two with
and is easily my favorite holiday. It’s laid back; there are no gifts to stress over — it’s just about being together. When I was younger, Christmas reigned supreme (because of presents). But now? Give me a chilly Thanksgiving with the people I love and a Bears game on TV. It’s the perfect day. So, here’s to family traditions, whether they involve tackling each other over a game of virtual racing or tackling a plate of the best cinnamon rolls you’ve ever had. Thanksgiving is about coming together, and in our family, it’s about celebrating what we love best — each other (and maybe the Bears, just a little bit). –Mike Ulmer
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Fact vs. Fiction
Dental Health Care for Expectant Moms
Amid thousands of books written about pregnancy, guides to expectant moms’ dental health are scarce. Plenty of myths have cropped up in that vacuum, creating uncertainty among pregnant women about whether they can seek treatment for cavities and gum disease.
pain, swelling, or other signs of infection. Also, some pregnant women find that brushing and flossing make them feel nauseous. Try brushing at times of the day when you tend to feel less nauseous or ask your dentist to recommend a mild-flavored mouthwash to use beforehand to mute the taste of the toothpaste. Expectant moms are also more likely to develop cavities, so it is important to seek treatment. Dental X-rays are generally a safe diagnostic tool. They use very small amounts of radiation, and your dentist can cover you with a protective apron. If you need a filling, local anesthesia may be permissible to numb your mouth. Make sure your dentist uses a mercury-free composite filling. Pain relievers and antibiotics may be safe, but check with your prenatal care provider first. And, of course, continue regular cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and ask your dentist for advice on preserving your dental health. These steps will help protect you from lasting dental problems long after your baby is born!
Bleeding gums and tooth decay can be a massive problem during pregnancy, and contrary to popular belief, seeking dental care, including local anesthetics and X-rays, can be safe as long as you first clear the treatments with your prenatal care provider. Increases in progesterone and
estrogen cause as many as 3 in 4 pregnant women to develop gingivitis, marked by redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding of the gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film on the teeth containing bacteria. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, an infection linked in pregnancy research to premature birth and low birth weight. Increases in plaque during pregnancy can also cause “pregnancy tumors” on the gums around and between the teeth. Expectant moms should seek treatment for PATIENT TESTIMONIALS Getting Confidence Back
“When I first came to Kinetic, I was in
constant knee and back pain. My knees always felt swollen and tight like balloons. I had tried shots but they worked the first time, but not
“Once again Kinetic helped me with my neck pain and stiffness. I really trust the therapists to help me with my pain. I have always had a positive experience while getting expert care. Thank you, Amanda! And everyone at Kinetic!”
as well the second time. Over my time working with Amanda, my pain has decreased, my knees do not feel swollen and tight all the time. I walk better. I am able to navigate stairs easier and am more flexible. Amanda has been a joy to work with and I am thankful for her efforts to help me improve.” –Audrey Long
–Linda Jahr
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FEAR OF FALLING? Improve Your Balance and Enjoy a Fall-Free Holiday Season
As we age, maintaining our balance becomes increasingly difficult, and just one fall can lead to severe injuries. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the risk of falling increases, so staying active and taking steps to protect your balance is vital. Here are some tips from our team to help you enjoy the holidays while staying on your feet. WHY BALANCE BECOMES MORE CHALLENGING WITH AGE Our bodies’ ability to maintain balance can decline for various reasons, including changes in muscle strength, joint flexibility, and even vision. Unfortunately, this natural process can make us more prone to falls, which can lead to fractures or other severe injuries. The good news is that balance can be improved and maintained with consistent effort and the right exercises. A SIMPLE EXERCISE TO STRENGTHEN BALANCE One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve balance is to practice standing on one foot while holding onto something stable. Try balancing on one leg for 30 seconds at a time, using a nearby support, such as a countertop or sturdy chair, to
steady yourself if needed. Over time, work on letting go of the support and standing unaided. This simple exercise helps strengthen the muscles in your legs and core, which are vital in keeping you steady. STAY ACTIVE TO PREVENT FALLS A major risk for older adults is a fear of falling, which can lead to reduced activity. Ironically, this decrease in movement increases the risk of falls. It’s crucial to remain active, even during the colder months, to keep your muscles strong and your body responsive. Avoid sitting for extended periods — take breaks to stand, stretch, or go for short walks to keep your body engaged and your balance sharp. WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP Physical therapy can provide personalized support if you’re concerned about your balance or feel unsteady on your feet. Our team of specialists can create a customized plan to help improve your balance, increase your confidence, and reduce the risk of falls. Don’t let balance issues hold you back from enjoying the holidays. Contact our team today to learn how we can help you strengthen your balance and prevent falls.
Sudoku
Greek Chicken and Rice
INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 tsp dried thyme • 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice • Juice of 1 lemon • 1/2 cup feta cheese • Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS 1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened. 2. Add chicken, oregano, and thyme and cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 3–4 minutes. 3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. 4. Stir in the lemon juice and feta cheese, then season with salt and pepper.
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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
847-515-8970 www.KineticPTS.com
11920 Oak Creek Parkway Huntley, IL 60142
INSIDE
An Illinois Thanksgiving With the Bears and Mario Kart PAGE 1
Dental Care Myths to Avoid During Pregnancy PAGE 2
Patient Testimonials: Getting Confidence Back PAGE 2
Don’t Let Balance Issues Ruin Your Holidays PAGE 3
Greek Chicken and Rice PAGE 3
A Big Wintertime Playground PAGE 4
Most national parks are full of visitors from spring through fall. Big Bend National Park turns that schedule upside down. The ideal time to visit this southwest Texas wonderland of wild river canyons and stunning mountain vistas is from October through May — the offseason for most national parks. But summertime temperatures in Big Bend soar to 105 degrees F or more, too hot for safe vacationing, while wintertime is mild and usually sunny. Many tourists and vacationers have recently discovered the park, driving visitation 16% higher since 2018 to more than 511,000 people annually. Big Bend offers a diversity of sights and terrain. Elevations soar from about 1,800 feet along the Rio Grande River to almost 8,000 feet in the Chisos Mountains. Boating and rafting trips along the Rio Grande, which Congress designated as a free-flowing Wild & Scenic River, take visitors through the The Unique Allure of Big Bend National Park
spectacular Santa Elena Canyon limestone cliffs. Options range from a leisurely float lasting less than a day to a seven-day wilderness adventure down the Lower Canyons. Big Bend is also a birder’s paradise, with 450 species sighted there on various occasions. The park also offers an abundance of family-friendly activities. A legal Port of Entry enables visitors who bring their passports to cross the Rio Grande River and visit the shops and restaurants of a rural Mexican village, Boquillas del Carmen. Families also enjoy stargazing at the Sotol Vista Overlook, scrambling over the boulders on the Upper Burro Mesa, and trekking the Grapevine Hills trails to see Balanced Rock, a giant boulder seemingly teetering in midair between two smaller boulders. Kids can also see dinosaur remains at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit or explore the ruins of a mercury-mining ghost town, Terlingua. Five visitor centers are usually open through the winter. Construction of a new visitor lodge and water system will begin in late 2024, likely causing some disruptions. However, Big Bend has four developed campgrounds and many backcountry camping opportunities. Most campsites are filled six months in advance, so reserve a spot early for your winter camping adventure.
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