CentraState - Healthy Directions

Firsthand Testimony to the Value of a Medically Based Fitness Center A fter experiencing persistent pain in his right leg, 64-year-old Edward Erlenmeyer decided to seek medical advice during a routine exercise session at the CentraState Fitness & Wellness Center. Prompted by Harlene Goldberg, RN, who was the Fitness & Wellness Center nurse manager at that time, Edward made a decision that may have saved his life. Edward, a retired management professional, and his wife frequent the Fitness & Wellness Center, where they enjoy working out and taking water exercise classes. In March, Edward experienced a tightness in his right knee that spread to his ankle. After spending about 15 minutes on an elliptical machine at the Fitness & Wellness Center, he stopped by the nurse's office to check his weight. He decided to mention to Harlene that he thought he had strained a leg muscle, and she determined that his pain could be the result of a blood clot—a much more dangerous issue. Harlene insisted Edward visit the Emergency Department (ED) at CentraState Medical Center, but with a cruise planned for the following weekend, Edward was hesitant to go if the problem wasn't serious. After Harlene explained the potential danger, Edward decided to visit the ED. A FORTUNATE DIAGNOSIS While in the ED, Edward was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms inside a vein, often in the legs. This condition can cause severe pain, swelling, and—if the clot dislodges and moves—an embolism, which can damage the lungs, heart, or in rare cases, the brain. It can even cause death. Edward was injected with blood thinners and began a regimen of oral medication. With his DVT now under control, he has returned to his workouts at the Fitness & Wellness Center. In his free time, Edward enjoys photography and spending time with his wife, three children, and one grandchild. 6 November/December 2011 "Harlene's encouragement was lifesaving," Edward says. "The ramifications of ignoring the blood clot could have been severe, especially considering I was preparing for vacation and may have neglected the issue for another week. With Harlene's professionalism and caring attitude, I knew I should trust her advice, and I'm grateful that I did." For more information about the Fitness & Wellness Center, visit www.centrastatefitness.com or call (732) 845-9400. HD Thanks to clinical nurse services offered at the CentraState Fitness & Wellness Center, Edward Erlenmeyer discovered he had a deep vein thrombosis before it threatened his life. Get Active! The CentraState Fitness & Wellness Center offers numerous ways to stay healthy and physically active. Whether you enjoy solo cardiovascular training or group fitness classes, the center offers comprehensive services, including: • Aquatic classes • Cardiovascular and strength training equipment • CPR training • Nutrition education • Physical therapy • Sauna • Stress management • Yoga • Zumba™ "Nurses at the center perform physical assessments on all new members, follow up with them every three months, and meet any immediate needs," says Anne- Marie Neumann, RN, BSN, MSEd, nurse manager, CentraState Fitness & Wellness Center. "Our mission is to provide members with clinical expertise when they are working out and using our facility—an added benefit most fitness centers don't offer." Healthy Directions

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