Article Type: The Care We Share
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Care We Share – Healthy Aging Starts with Connection
The 2025 Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) Community Health Needs Assessment also found that social isolation and loneliness came up often in local community conversations as challenges for older adults, especially in our more rural towns. These challenges can affect physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. A lack of regular connection can increase the risk…
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Hand Pain, Numbness, and Stiffness Are Common Aging Concerns
What can cause these issues? Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common source of hand numbness and pain, affecting up to 10 percent of the entire population. The tendons in the wrist swell and put pressure on the median nerve, one of three major nerves responsible for supplying feeling in the hand. Carpal tunnel…
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BHS and Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates Offer Expanded Knee Replacement Care
For patients who meet the criteria for same day discharge, the Crane Center is an ideal place for their replacement surgery and can be a much better experience for the patient. Dr. Kevin Mitts, the BOA surgeon who performs the total knee replacements at the Crane Center, says, “Same-day discharge for knee replacement result from…
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Protect Your Children Heading Back to School
School children in Massachusetts, from kindergarten and grade school to college are required to have vaccinations for DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, or whooping cough), Polio, MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella or German Measles), Hepatitis B, and Varicella. In addition, students entering grades 7 and 11 must be vaccinated for meningococcal conjugate with what’s called…
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Managing Back-to-School Colds: Helping Kids Stay Healthy This School Year
Most back-to-school colds are mild and can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and supportive care. Still, knowing how to prevent illness, when to keep children home, and when to seek medical care can help families stay prepared and avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Department. Why Colds Spread Quickly When School Starts Schools…
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Start the School Year Strong with a Back-to-School Health Checklist
Planning for a Healthy School Year Annual physicals, sports clearances, vaccines, and preventive care visits help make sure students are ready for the school year ahead. Scheduling early can help families avoid the last-minute rush once school begins. During a back-to-school visit, your child’s provider can review growth and development, school or sports forms, vaccination…
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Heat Stress: What to Watch for This Summer
Hot weather causes your heart to pump more blood and increases your heart rate. Dehydration can lower blood pressure and make it harder for your body to function properly. Together, these stressors can raise the risk of serious events like heart attack or stroke. Know the Warning Signs Watch for early symptoms of heat-related illness: …