| Walk With the Doc Improving your chances of avoiding a stroke is easier than you might imagine. The secret is reducing risk factors known to make strokes more likely. By managing your risk factors, 90% of strokes can be avoided. High blood pressure tops the list of risk factors. Second in importance is physical activity followed by lipids (blood fats). The list below gives you an idea of the risk reduction possible by eliminating any one of the top six risk factors. • High blood pressure: 48% • Physical inactivity: 36%, • Lipids (blood fats): 27% • Diet: 23%, • Weight: 19%, • Smoking: 12%, The bad news is that strokes are the leading cause of serious, long-term neurologic impairment and disability. Depending on the severity and type, a stroke can significantly affect quality of life. The good news is that by working together the chances of a stroke can be significantly reduced. Advances in medicines for lipid management and blood pressure management are an important part of aging gracefully. However, high on the list of risk factors is diet, weight and physical activity. If you happen to still be in the “I need to do something” stage, consider starting with something as simple as a daily brisk walk. A daily walk is medicine for the body and the soul. Taken daily it offers amazing benefits. Plan to join me for a fun walk that’s a step toward better health. Nancy Neighbors, MD Huntsville, Alabama Let’s Stretch More As we age, our muscles tighten and we have less range of motion in our joints. Simple activities that we once took for granted, like cutting our toenails, picking things up from the floor or zipping a dress, can all become difficult. A regular stretching program can help lengthen your muscles and make these daily activities easier and more enjoyable. Stretching can provide many benefits if done correctly. The best advice is moderation and ask if you have concerns. For a list of common precautions click here. For ideas about how to get started stretching click here. |