Winter 2007	Health Beat - The Latest in Health Research
Therapeutic massage Massage has both physical and emotional benefits. The physical benefits of massage can include increased circulation, lower blood pressure, improved posture, better skin health, reduced muscle tension and relaxation. These can lead to improved sleep, energy, mobility and balance as well as faster healing of strained muscles. Emotional benefits include a stronger sense of peacefulness and well-being. It’s important to choose a reputable massage therapist. Consider checking references and be sure to see a therapist who has a New York state license. You can verify his or her registration online at www.op.nysed.gov*. New treatments for rheumatoid arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a painful inflammation of the joints, most often affecting the hands and wrists, but also the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, ankles, feet and neck. It can slowly deform and cripple a patient if left untreated. Basic life chores, like holding a fork or writing a letter, become excruciating daily hurdles. Recently, the first biologic treatments for RA were developed. These drugs target certain messenger proteins in the joints called cytokines. Considered a miracle drug by many patients, these treatments have revolutionized the way RA is treated. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved biologic agents include Remicade, Enbrel, Humira, Kineret, Orencia and Rituxan. Most FDA-approved drugs are available through the nonformulary request at VA; however, the high drug cost and several side effects including infections, rare possibility of lymphomas and autoimmune diseases preclude most physicians from using them as their first line of treatment. VA offers many services for women veterans Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) has responded to the growing number of women veterans by targeting programs to meet their unique health care needs, including counseling for sexual trauma and health services specifically for women such as Pap tests, mammography and general reproductive health care (including birth control and menopause treatment) at many VA medical facilities. The Veterans’ Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996 expanded these services to include maternity and infertility benefits. The Women Veterans Health program provides a comprehensive system of cost-effective medical and psychosocial services for women. Women veterans are encouraged to contact their local VA Medical Center or VA Regional Office with any questions. * Links will take you outside of the Department of Veterans Affairs Web site. VA does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of the linked web sites. The link will open in a new window.
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