Blog

At UT Health Austin, social workers are often a part of the patient’s care team, helping patients manage their diagnosis as well as any personal, social, or emotional difficulties they may be experiencing. If you or a loved one was recently diagnosed with a life-altering medical condition, UT Health Austin social workers are here to help you navigate this difficult journey.

UT Health Austin's Sports and Injury Clinic treats all athletes, including your everyday jogger, adaptive athletes, and athletes with disabilities. Learn how Sports Medicine Clinical Director and orthopedic surgeon, Anthony Johnson, MD, FAOA, FACS, FAAOS, and his team are uniquely equipped to care for the needs of tactical athletes.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be a lifelong disorder that often requires specialized care to manage. Winifred Mak, MD, PhD, a reproductive endocrinologist at the Women’s Health Institute answers common questions about PCOS symptoms, available treatment options, and more.

UT Health Austin, orthopedic experts in the Musculoskeletal Institute, say that prehabilitation (prehab) training, physical conditioning, and stamina are all important factors that can help your body before and after surgery.

Keep your heart healthy and happy. Watch this animation for six tips on heart health.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive neuromodulation treatment used to combat Major Depressive Disorder. UT Health Austin’s Director of Treatment-Resistant Depression, Samuel Collier, MD, shares his insights into the treatment process, side effects, and advantages of TMS.

Pediatric congenital heart surgeon Carlos Mery, MD, discusses a new collaborative research study for patients with single-ventricle congenital heart disease.

12-year-old Grace Jennings is the first pediatric congenital heart patient in Central Texas to receive a life-saving mechanical heart device to stabilize her heart function. She has exceeded all expectations and is growing stronger each day.

UT Health Austin dermatologist Adewole Adamson, MD, discusses how artificial intelligence can be used to improve patient care.

Get to know David Clarke, MD, UT Health Austin epileptologist and Director of the Comprehensive Pediatric Epilepsy Program at Dell Children’s. His origin and background influence how he makes an impact in neurological care for children with epilepsy around the world every day.

UT Austin researcher and oncologist finds 73% of head and neck cancers are caused by vaccine-preventable human papillomavirus (HPV).

If your New Year’s resolution was to get back in shape, orthopedic surgeon Karl Koenig, MD, offers advice on how to do it safely – specifically, how to protect your joints when starting a new exercise routine.

Human papillomavirus is the cause of 99% of cervical cancers, 73% of head and neck cancers, and linked to various other cancers of the mouth and genitals. 4 out of every 5 people (a whopping 80%) will contract HPV within their lifetime, yet it's still flying under the radar.

UT Health Austin partners with Dell Children’s Medical Center to establish the Comprehensive Pediatric Epilepsy Program. This level 4 epilepsy center consists of a team of over 20 specialists, each bringing a unique perspective and skillset to ensure the most well-rounded pediatric care.

Congratulations to seven UT Health Austin physicians who were among those selected as Austin’s Top Doctors in the 2020 January Issue of Austin Monthly Magazine!

Dr. Robin Hilsabeck, Director of UT Health Austin’s Comprehensive Memory Center in the Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences, shares advice on helping a loved one with Alzheimer's and their caregivers cope with guests and celebrations during the holidays.

Heading to the slopes this season? UT Health Austin’s Sports and Injury Clinic specialists address the most common winter sports injuries and how to avoid a potential trip to the ER this season.

Genetic testing can be an important preventive health strategy. Learn how UT Health Austin’s LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes' genetic counselor, Kalisi Logan, consults genetic testing to help her patients manage their healthcare.

10-20% of Americans suffer from the winter blues, but these feelings shouldn’t keep you from pursuing what’s important to you. UT Health Austin social workers share tips on how to boost your mood during the winter season.

F. Tripp Buckley, MD, FACS, Director of the Heartburn and Esophageal Disorders Center shares advice for avoiding and treating Holiday Heartburn with KVUE.

Observations about health and caring with Amy Young, MD, practicing obstetrics and gynecology clinician and UT Health Austin’s Chief Medical Officer.

Thanksgiving feasts are a time when heartburn can easily arise putting a damper on holiday festivities. Here are 15 suggestions for curbing GERD symptoms during the holidays verified by UT Health Austin specialists.

Urinary incontinence is a common symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction, which can often occur after childbirth. But, as far as we are concerned, it is not a sacrifice you have to make as a mom. We’ve got a fix for it, which can make motherhood, womanhood, and life in general that much better.

Approximately 20% of adults in the United States experience chronic pain, and of those experiencing pain, between 67-88% also have sleep issues. Let’s break down the relationship between pain and sleep and how you can successfully manage both.

Elizabeth Kvale, MD, Director of Survivorship for the LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes explains the importance of palliative care for patients and their caregivers with KXAN.

Nan was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1998 and has always maintained a positive attitude about life with MS. But when Hurricane Harvey flooded her home, it was her support system and strong relationship with Dr. Léorah Freeman that helped her through some of the most difficult times.

For Bill Matsui, MD, Director of the Hematological Malignancies Program at the UT Health Austin LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes, packing up and moving his skill set to Austin, Texas, was a no-brainer.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. For some reason, this reproductive cancer may not receive as much attention as other reproductive cancers, but ovarian cancer is serious business.

Medical director of the Heartburn and Esophageal Disorders Center, Dr. Tripp Buckley, has released an official statement regarding the Zantac/Ranitidine recall and what patients should know.

Suicide must be treated as more than a conversation – it is a public health crisis and a leading cause of death in the United states. Here's what you should know about suicide and suicide prevention.

Balford was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at age 33 after the sight in his left eye started to suddenly fade along with his sense of taste. It came as a complete shock. But with the help of his care team at UT Health Austin and his community of friends and family, he's been able to stay confident and control his symptoms.

UT Health Austin has been awarded HealthCare’s Most Wired Certified Level 9 Performance Excellence Award by the College of Health Information Management Executives (CHIME) for its exceptional use of information technology to improve health and care.

It’s estimated that only half of people with mental illnesses receive treatment due to limited access and high demand. UT Health Austin is thinking of new ways to serve larger populations of people through group therapy programs.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. For some reason, this reproductive cancer may not receive as much attention as other reproductive cancers, but ovarian cancer is serious business.

Yvette Williams-Brown, MD, with UT Health Austin’s LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes Gynecologic Cancer Clinic discusses Gynecologic Cancer Awareness month with KXAN.

Currently, there is no reliable or standardized screening to prevent or catch ovarian cancer early. MD Anderson and other study sites, including UT Health Austin, are participating in a clinical trial to determine if a blood test could help detect ovarian cancer early in women who are post-menopausal.

Just like breathing, sleep is a pivotal piece of human functionality. Sleep allows your body to repair itself, strengthens your immune system and allows your brain to process information and consolidate memories.

Baby boomers are 5 times more likely to contract the Hepatitis C virus than the general population. Here's why.

Leorah Freeman, MD, with UT Health Austin’s Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center spoke with KXAN about Multiple Sclerosis and a new movement program she developed for MS patients.

UT Health Austin neurologist, Léorah Freeman, MD, PhD, is passionate about community outreach and extending healthcare into the community. In 2017 she created a neuro-inclusive exercise program for multiple sclerosis patients that she has now expanded to the Austin Townlake location.

Along with a cancer diagnosis comes a million questions. When a person’s life is turned upside down by the diagnosis of cancer, their fertility is often the last thing on their mind. That's where we come in.

When you're faced with a decision on where to take your child for the best care it can be a tough choice. Two-year-old Addie has been with Dr. Carlos Mery since the beginning, even when Dr. Mery moved to Austin to establish the Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Defects here, Addie's mom, Patty, new he was worth following.

Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia, happens to both men and women, and it occurs more frequently than you might think. No matter your sex, intercourse can and should be enjoyable for all parties involved. When intercourse is not enjoyable, it’s time for a conversation with your partner(s) and your health care provider.

A student's first year of medical school is essentially information absorption but to top off a great first year, these incoming second-year medical students got to practice some of the skills they had been studying. Take a look inside the skills lab taught by Dell Medical School professors.

Certain diseases, conditions and medications may make contraception a much more complicated conversation. The Women’s Health Institute offers full complex contraceptive services and Dr. Lauren Thaxton answered our questions about complex contraception and who can benefit from these services.

After an accident that left Heather as a bilateral above-knee amputee she has determined there is nothing she can't do. With the help of sports and injury orthopedist, Dr. AJ Johnson, Heather is working to recover from and injury and become and even stronger athlete.

What is women's reproductive health? Dr. Jeffrey Newport, psychiatrist, talks with KXAN news about the considerations women should take around mental health and pregnancy and explains more about UT Health Austin's new reproductive mental health program.

One of the rarest and more severe heart defects is hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which takes three highly complex surgical procedures and a specialist team of cardiac specialists to treat. Dr. Carlos Mery talks about how they treat this condition at the Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Defects at Dell Children's Medical Center.

July 4^th is the most dangerous American holiday of the year. Stay safe by avoiding these common Independence Day accidents!

The pain of IBS is real, but it doesn't have to stand in your way. Learn how to manage the symptoms of IBS through diet, exercise and stress management.

Buddy lived with what he was told were stomach ulcers for over 20 years until was finally correctly diagnosed with a hiatal hernia. One surgery with Dr. Tripp Buckley fixed the problem and he's now living heartburn and pain free and able to enjoy eating any food he wants!

Dell Children’s Medical Center celebrated the opening of its new pediatric cardiac care unit, a part of UT Health Austin's Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease. The 24-bed inpatient unit includes state-of-the-art technology and will be the first and only dedicated pediatric cardiac care unit in Central Texas.

Do you have a vacation planned this summer? Don't forget your travel vaccinations! Learn which vaccinations are required and recommended in every continent before you set off for your next adventure.

The world's history of encouraging a negative relationship between women and their hormone's may still affect women's health today. Here's why cultivating a positive relationship with your hormones is so important.

Men, let’s be honest. When it comes to proactively seeking health care, there’s room for improvement. June is Men's Health Month, so take your health into your own hands!

At UT Health Austin, we are passionate about a proactive health care approach, which means screenings, screenings and more screenings. That’s why we’ve invested in a state-of-the-art bone density diagnostic machine to determine your risk of breaking a bone before you break it.

When many think of speech-language pathology, their perception may be limited. Lindsey Wineholt, UT Health Austin’s Speech-Language Pathologist for patients with degenerative dementia disorders, wants you to know that the scope of a speech language pathologist is much broader than you might think.

In the Women in Medicine we had the privilege of listening to UT Health Austin doctors Kim Brown, Yvette Williams-Brown and Mrinalini Kulkarni-Date discuss gender-based issues in medicine and have a frank discussion about what it’s really like to be a woman in medicine. Here’s what they had to say on the subjects of family, bias and change.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a silent predator, affecting 1 in every 3 people in the U.S. and it can have dangerous side effects. You can take action in managing causes of high blood pressure today to avoid health issues tomorrow.

Whether it’s riding their bike, playing pirates outside with their friends, or being enrolled in soccer or dance, regular exercise can provide a variety of benefits to people of all ages.

Uchenna Ossai, DPT, Pelvic Health Program Manager in the Women's Health Institute discusses why women should recognize the importance of maintaining good pelvic floor health, before, during and after pregnancy.

UT Health Austin supports Health Records on iPhone, which brings together hospitals, clinics and the existing Apple Health app to make it easy for patients to see their available medical data from multiple providers.

For MS patients specifically, a diagnosis has the potential to greatly impact the lives of those around you. Consider the following tips when determining how to share your diagnosis with your kids, romantic partners, and place of employment.

When you know a person’s motivations and goals you can tailor their treatment plan to help them get exactly where they want to be. For Musculoskeletal patient, Cindy, her story is a prime example of a treatment plan that helped her get exactly where she wanted to be... surrounded by over 700,000 Antarctic penguins.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announced on May 16, 2019 that UT Health Austin’s Cognitive Disorder’s Center in the Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences was one of five recipients of the 2019 Innovators in Aging Award.

A fifth of the US population report that they suffer from chronic pain and often times that chronic pain cannot be explained by an obvious pathological connection such as a physical injury or emotional trauma that warrants pain signals from the brain. How and why does this happen?

Because today is tomorrow's time to beat

Your health before pregnancy can have an impact on the health of your child just as it would during pregnancy. So, before you get going, you’ll want to make sure you’re in tip-top shape ready to pass down the best you have to offer to your baby.

Summer can be tough on your skin. With increased sun exposure, time spent outside, sweat, and the occasional sugary snowcone, you’ll want to take extra steps to ensure your skin is as healthy and glowing as it can be this summer!

Anyone working in the “helping profession,” including doctors, nurses, social workers, paramedics, law enforcement, teachers, and other caregivers are at risk of developing compassion fatigue, and likely will experience compassion fatigue to some extent throughout their career. But how do you recognize it, manage it and prevent it?

Multiple Sclerosis, more commonly known as MS, is an unpredictable and complicated disease. Its symptoms vary drastically and the disease takes many different forms among patients. One individual’s version of MS may appear to an observer as an entirely different disease from another individual with MS.

What's the reality of living with arthritis? KVUE talked with this year's Arthritis Foundation Texas honorees, including UT Health Austin medical honoree, Kevin Bozic, MD, about their experiences with the condition and how they participate in raising awareness for a cure.

We talked with UT Health Austin’s Director of Clinical Social Work, Donna Shanor, about what drives her each day to make an impact, but to fully understand, we had to go back to the beginning, back to why she chose social work, her “defining moment.”

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which esophageal cells have changed into intestinal cells that are not normal, increasing risk of cancer of the esophagus. Dr. Kavitha Kumbum spoke with KXAN about Barrett’s Esophagus and what you can do about it.

With all the choices available to us, how do approximately 3.75 billion women know which period product is right for them? There are many factors to consider when identifying the best product for your body and lifestyle, so we've compiled some helpful information to make it easier to pick what works for you.

Overall, it is estimated that more than 15.5 million adults and children with a history of cancer are living in the United States today, a number that is expected to increase to over 20 million by 2026. More people are living longer after a cancer diagnosis. The focus has moved past helping people survive, and toward helping them thrive.

Statistics show that those suffering from the condition often receive a delayed diagnosis six to ten years after they first begin experiencing symptoms. Endometriosis pain can be debilitating for many women and can cause long-term issues that can affect both the physical and mental components of quality of life. So, why are women suffering undiagnosed?

Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition that can occur in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. It affects 1-2% of the adult population in the United States. But what exactly is it and how do you know you have it? Anyone with a history of GERD should be screened regularly for Barrett's Esophagus as progression can lead to esophageal cancer.

March is colorectal cancer month! Colon Cancer is the 3rd highest cause of death in both men and women. In 2019, clinicians predict that over 150,000 new cases will be diagnosed with 51,000 deaths. Dr. Anna Capasso discusses incidence, screenings and care in an interview with KXAN.

Vaccinations protect you from contagious diseases like Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and more. UT Health Austin Nurse Practitioner, Kristin Vinueza, talks about the importance of vaccines not just for protecting yourself but your community too.

There’s no denying that love can yield important health benefits that can impact your mental, emotional and even your physical well-being. Also, nobody said you have to be romantically involved to enjoy the benefits of a healthy relationship!

If you consistently can’t reach orgasm or you experience pain during intercourse or you know something just isn’t right when you’re trying to get in the mood something bigger may actually be going on. Don’t ignore what your mind and body are telling you when it comes to sex, these could actually be symptoms of sexual dysfunction.

It’s estimated that up to 80% of the population will experience back or neck pain at some point in their lives. Pain can be a complex experience, so it’s important to understand the type of pain you may be experiencing, and the cause in order to determine the best way to alleviate it.

The UT Health Austin LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes is excited to announce the launch and opening of the Gynecologic Oncology Clinic. The clinic operates concurrently with the UT Health Austin Women’s Health Institute and is open to anyone who may suspect they have cancer or who already have a cancer diagnosis.

The Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease team is one of the best in the nation. From your cardiologist, to your surgical team, to your caseworker who helps you navigate the processes, the team helping you is vast, and they all center their attention on you and your child. But, who all is on the team behind the surgeon?

Congratulations to five UT Health Austin physicians who were among those selected as Austin’s Top Doctors in the 2019 January Issue of Austin Monthly Magazine! Austin Monthly’s Top Doctors are selected by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. a healthcare research and information company to help guide consumers to America’s top doctors and top hospitals.

Winifred Mak, M.D., Ph.D., Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) Specialist at UT Health Austin’s Women’s Health Institute is working with Aspire Fertility to simplify the treatment process, streamline communication, and offer the most advanced therapies available to patients seeking fertility services.

Just because you’re in good health doesn’t mean you don’t need to pay your doctor a visit. Having an annual physical exam is the best way for you and your primary care physician to check in about your health and take any preventative actions, such as screenings or vaccinations, you may need to help keep you in good health.

Cecelia started ballet classes at the age of four, probably completely unaware that it would become such a huge part of her life and her career. And now at age 56, still young, still vibrant, and still strong, she still dances. But it wasn’t until recently she was even able to think about dancing again and her journey back to the dance floor wasn’t easy.

What is menopause, what can you expect and what can you do about it? We talked to our experts in the Women’s Health Institute, including obstetrician gynecologist, Margaret Whitney, M.D., and physician assistant, Teresa Reed, to pick their brains about it.

Nurse Practitioner in UT Health Austin's WorkLife Walk-In clinic talks with KXAN about the importance of annual exams for adults. Establishing a relationship with your primary care physician can also provide many benefits such as having someone who knows you manage your ongoing health needs, having a central location for medical records and more.

Whether it’s you or a family member that takes on the roles of a caregiver, it’s important to recognize that caregiving can be both rewarding and stressful. Caring for the caregiver is critical to your health to keep you feeling your best as you care for your loved one.

Between 10-30% of the U.S. population suffers from seasonal allergies, but you can get ahead of the game by knowing what’s coming and the best ways to prepare your body to fight this allergy madness.

Kegels might be ok in some cases, but UT Health Austin Pelvic Floor pro and certified Women’s Health Physical Therapist, Maureen Ryan Christian, stresses that before you continue with the kegels, you really should talk to a professional because you could be doing more harm than good.

Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 50 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias worldwide. Recognizing the signs and symptoms can help diagnose and begin treatment early.

Mindfulness is defined as the practice of maintaining a non-judgmental state of heightened or complete awareness. Dr. Teresa Lanza di Scalea, psychiatrist at UT Health Austin, discusses practical methods you can do everyday to be more mindful.

Joaquin is an energetic 13-year-old boy who loves playing sports, but in September 2018 he began experiencing intense chest pains during baseball practice that turned out to be a massive cardiovascular event that changed his life forever.

"I might have it, but it doesn’t have me."

Movember is a global charity movement aimed at raising awareness of men’s health risks with a focus on prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health. Help us create positive change for men’s health by raising awareness year-round.

Your favorite mascot, Hook 'Em, stopped by the UT Health Austin Walk-In clinic for a quick check-up and to get his annual flu shot! Turns out his health is in good shape, so no need to worry. If you need a check-up, be like Hook 'Em and make an appointment today.

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joint begins to break down causing the underlying bone to change leading to symptoms of pain, swelling, stiffness and decreased motion or flexibility. Dr. Karl Koenig, orthopedic surgeon of theMusculoskeletal Institute talks about the causes of arthritis and what you can do to help alleviate symptoms.

Let’s talk about that infamous stitch you get in your side during an intense cardio workout. What causes this intrusive side cramp, what can you do to get rid of it and are there in-fact ways to completely prevent it?

Many women suffer from vulvodynia, or pain of the vulva. UT Health Austin Physician Assistant, Teresa Reed, talks with KXAN about vulvodynia, symptoms and treatment options available to women so they don't have to suffer with pain.

Bipolar Disorder is a common brain disease that affects about two percent of the world’s population, however, there are many common misconceptions about Bipolar Disorder, and much of what you think you may know about it may not be accurate.

Taking place annually throughout the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is intended to raise awareness about the disease, to garner support, and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.

Tripp Buckley, M.D., Director of the Heartburn and Esophageal Disorders Center at UT Health Austin, suffered from GERD himself that affected his quality of life. Here from him about how his experiences with the disease guides the way he treats his patients.

Going to the doctor shouldn’t be something you dread but rather looked as an investment in your health. By participating in routine physical exams, even if you are a seemingly healthy adult, you are making an importance decision to take responsibility of your health and preventative care.

Lorrie moved 1,500 miles away from her family in Houston, to Boston, Massachusetts to fulfill her vocation to become a Catholic sister. But Lorrie’s knee pain continued to hold her back and she was sadly forced to relocate back to Texas to find a surgeon for her knees. Her story shows strength in overcoming obstacles to fulfill her dream of helping others.

Unfortunately, the evolutionary design of our bodies is really only meant to last through reproductive and child rearing age, so as we move into our later 40s and 50s we tend to see a breakdown in our bones, cartilage and within our bodies in general. Karl Koenig, MD, discusses arthritis as you age and how you can keep symptoms in check.

If you’re an athlete, it’s tough to be sidelined due to an injury. We know it’s difficult to sit back and watch the action while you recover. So how long should you wait and what’s the best way to get back into your activity after an injury? Sports and Injury clinical specialists discusses the safest way to get back into the game after an injury.

Have you ever experiences a flair up of joint pain the day before it rains or whenever the season changes to colder weather? It's not just you and it's not just in your head. Karl Koenig, MD, talks about how joint pain works and why it happens more as you age.

Diet trends and fads seem to come and go and we still have a hard time losing weight. So what’s the catch, is there something we are missing, is there really a secret? UT Health Austin dietitian talks about diet trends and carbs, whether they are good or bad for you.

Is it a virus or a bacterial infection? It is important to pay attention to symptoms you may be experiencing when you are sick. Visiting your primary care provider can also be helpful in figuring out what kind of infection you have and whether or not you may need antibiotics as a form of treatment.

Injuries happen and sometimes it can be difficult to know the best approach for treatment and recovery. UT Health Austin’s Sports Injury specialists discuss the most common sports injuries and how to treat and avoid them in the future.

With high temperatures, it’s important to be aware that heat illness in athletes (but it can happen to anyone) can be a risk that should be taken very seriously. UT Health Austin sports and injury specialist discuss heat illness risk and how you can stay safe.

Back Pain Clinical Director Mark Queralt, M.D. observes there is no imaging system that can take a picture of pain, which is why images are just one of the three important tools he and his team use when caring for patients.

Physical therapy can provide a variety of benefits and our trained therapists can assess your needs and develop a treatment plan that is customized to you, but here are some stretches and exercises you can do at home!

The mission of the LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes at UT Health Austin is to improve patient's cancer experience and quality of life; revolutionize how we treat cancer; and change cancer care for the better.

Karl Koenig, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the Musculoskeletal Institute discusses the care team approach and how the model allows him and his team help patients who also DON'T need surgery.

Vulvodynia is a condition where women experience pain on the vulva. Many women are misdiagnosed or suffer undiagnosed for many years. Know the risk factors, symptoms and treatment options available.

With the summer weather comes some of the best food and drinks! But, for those suffering from acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), eating or drinking these summertime favorites may make for uncomfortable days and sleepless nights.

Nick Bryan, M.D, Ph.D., Director of Diagnostic Medicine, Imaging Services at UT Health Austin, explains, the amazing impact of medical imaging on the practice of medicine happened for a very simple, very human reason.

In order to provide whole-person care here at UT Health Austin, social workers play a crucial role in helping patients manage their diagnosis as well as any personal, social or emotional difficulties they may also be experiencing to ensure they are receiving the highest quality of care and support possible.

Whether you are embarking on a fun-filled vacation, or on the go for work, crowded roads and airports are inevitable, and while traveling can be amazing, it can also be stressful and take a toll on your health. Here are ten tips to help you stay healthy when you're on the road or in the air.

For someone as active as Eduardo, struggling with knee pain was starting to take it's toll. Between walking seven miles per day at work and his active participation in sports outside of work, the Musculoskeletal Institute put together a treatment plan that would allow him to continue with his active lifestyle.

Dr. Tripp Buckley with UT Health Austin's Heartburn and Esophageal Disorders Center says that 60 million people suffer from GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease), acid reflux or heartburn twice a day affecting their quality of life. Dr. Buckley and team conducted a study that looks at an outpatient surgical procedure to see if we can help those patients.

Chris wasn’t about to let her knee pain prevent her from playing golf, there was no pain that couldn’t be overcome in her eyes. After her visit with the Musculoskeletal Institute her treatment plan allowed her to continue playing golf and winning tournaments with a knee stronger than before.

A welcoming environment, friendly smiles and your own personal care team – that is how we treat people, not symptoms. For a UT Health Austin patient, often, the first member of that care team is the Concierge staff, the group welcomes and assists patients every day.

As idyllic as summer seems for most of us, extreme heat and humid conditions affect thousands of outdoor workers causing a range of heat illness that can affect anyone. The WorkLife Occupational Health and Injury Clinic works with employers and employees to help educate, advise and care for individuals who may be most at risk for heat-related conditions.

Resulting in numerous fatalities each year, high heat and humidity are a dangerous combination and one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States. With temperatures soaring into the 100s, now is the time to begin acclimating to the potential for months of hot weather ahead.

Dr. Fraser, a University of Texas at Austin alum, spoke with KXAN’s Gigi Barnett about his plans to build the Texas Center for Pediatrics and Congenital Heart Disease in Austin and what that means for children and families here and throughout the State.

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which cells lining the esophagus have changed into types of intestinal cells that are not normal and increase risk of cancer of the esophagus. If you have acid reflux particularly uncontrolled symptoms or have been on medication for many years, you should speak to your Gastroenterologist (GI) about this and having an endoscopy.

Congenital heart disease happens when someone is born with malformations or defects of the heart or the great vessels. It’s actually not that rare, approximately 1-100 children are born in the United States will have congenital heart disease. Dr. Carlos Mery talks about the new Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease here in Austin.

At UT Health Austin we treat people not symptoms that's why before you come we assemble a care team to understand you better before you even arrive. Here from orthopedic surgeon, Karl Koenig, MD, and Urogynecologist, Rebecca Rogers, MD, on how the care team works.

Academic medical centers are known to be at the forefront of cutting-edge medical care and technologies. They are where medical knowledge is continuously evolving through research and where new cures, therapies and treatments are found. Dr. Charles Fraser discusses how academic medical centers make an impact.

The UT Health Austin Comprehensive Memory Center provides evaluation and treatment to patients and families who are living with conditions that impact memory, behavior and other cognitive functions.We asked the experts a few questions about the clinic and the care patients can expect.

As a provider, nurse practitioners bring a unique philosophical approach because they are first and foremost nurses. Nurse practitioners approach patient care holistically; taking in the physical, social and psychological aspects into the patient care team. So when you see a nurse practitioner, they want to see how you are doing as a whole person.

Your reasons for wanting to get and stay healthy are just as important to us as they are to you. UT Health Austin puts you, your family, your goals and your needs at the forefront of your care, bringing a new level of excellence to healthcare in Texas. You can be assured that your team is as high-quality as the name they carry on their coats - The University of Texas.

We don't learn about our pelvic floors! No one is thinking about this huge muscle complex that can be the source of a lot of problems. UT Health Austin Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, Dr. Uchenna Ossai, specializes in pelvic health dysfunction. including anything from urinary incontinence, to pelvic pain, to bowel issues.

Associate Provider, Devin Williams, talks about celebrating patient successes during each step of their treatment. When a patient has a step towards those goals to really make sure that they know that you care about that and that you understand how hard that was to accomplish. We want to be there for them every step of the way!

Urinary Incontinence is not a badge of honor, as soon as you experience any amount of bladder leakage it's important to see your doctor to get it taken care of. Whether you are 15 or 55, urinary incontinence should not be affecting your quality of life, especially when the issue can typically be resolved!

At UT Health Austin, physician and providers in the care team meet collectively and collaboratively to discuss each patient before their visit. This knowledge allows the providers to put together a unique and individualized care plan that is then implemented for each patient. Women's Health Institute doctors discuss team-based care on KXAN.

As we get older - arthritis and pain play a role in staying active. You may see a decline in how active you can be because of joint pain. How do you know when its time to see a specialist? Dr. Kevin Bozic, Orthopedic surgeon with UT Health Austin's Musculoskeletal Institute speaks with KXANs Gigi Barnett about arthritis and aging.

Amy became a patient of UT Health Austin's Women's Health Institute and has been on a mission to bring awareness to vulvodynia, a painful condition many women suffer from often undiagnosed. Here her story and her journey to wellness and how she inspires other to advocate for change too!

Ask any globetrotter or jet-setter, the world is filled with magically beautiful places but also filled with some pretty nasty bacteria and viruses, and if you’re not prepared, coming in contact with potential diseases your body isn’t ready to fight can really put a damper on a vacation. If your off to travel the globe, be smart, get vaccinated.

By focusing on outcomes and goals that matter most to patients, our objective is to ensure that every single patient feels listened to, understood and helped in the most effective and meaningful way. Dr. Christina Salazar of the Women's Health Institute explains that this approach to patient care is often unique in medicine.

Before John received bilateral knee replacement surgery, simple things like getting around his own home, taking his two dogs out for a walk and getting a healthy amount of sleep each night were extremely difficult. After bilateral knee surgery done by UT Health Austin's Dr. Kevin Bozic, John looks forward to a bright future.

Patrice began having chronic pain in her lower abdomen that got so bad she couldn’t stand long enough to cook dinner for her family. After being seen at the Women's Health Institute they were able to determine her issue and begin treatment that has allowed her to become more active with her four boys pain free!

As man who has earned an honest living from hard work throughout his entire career, when Michael began suffering from debilitating pain in his right knee, it really hindered his quality of life. After being seen and treated at the Musculoskeletal Institute, Michael has been able to return to work and enjoy his life again.

Endometriosis is a common disorder, occurring in one out of ten girls and women and affecting mostly those of reproductive age. Because of the complexity of the disorder and lack of awareness of the disease, endometriosis is often one of the most misdiagnosed disorders, but it shouldn't be. Help us spread awareness and educate others.

You shouldn’t have to let joint and muscle pain hold you back from doing what you love this season. To ensure you are able get the most out of the nice weather and your fitness programs, we talked with our experienced orthopedic physicians about the best approach to protecting your joints while being active.

The idea of a patient working with a physician and a care team made up of a diverse group of health care professionals with a variety of different skills to achieve a health-related goal may sound a bit unexpected to some people, which, says Dr. Kevin Bozic, is what differentiates UT Health Austin.

Dr. Fraser will play a leading role in building the Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease, a focused pediatric and congenital heart program that leverages the power of the partnership between UT Health Austin, Dell Medical School, the greater University of Texas community, and Dell Children’s Medical Center.

Sneezing, coughing and fever often accompany both a cold and the flu making it sometimes difficult to distinguish between the two. So, how do you know when it’s a cold and when it’s the flu, and when to see a doctor and when to wait it out? We made a cheat sheet to hopefully make it a little easier!

At UT Health Austin your care team will be made up of many different kinds of medical professionals (from nurses to, emotional health experts to dietitians and physical therapists) who focus everything they do on your unique needs. Dr. Michael Breen in the Women’s Health Institute explains how approach to patient care just makes sense.

Once known as the food of the gods, chocolate is more than just a rich flavorful treat, it has long been renowned for its purported medicinal benefits as well. Recent studies have explored the connection between chocolate (more specifically cocoa flavanols, which act as antioxidants) and heart disease, mood, behavior and cognition.

The Occupational Health and Injury Clinic opens at UT Health Austin. The Clinic will perform DOT physicals, drug testing; process Worker’s Compensation claims and treat work place accidents. They are also available to diagnose and treat general employee health concerns.

Between 2013-2015, an estimated 54.4 million US adults annually were diagnosed with some form of chronic joint pain. While joint pain may become more prevalent with age, it does not have to be inevitable, there are lifestyle changes you can make to reduce symptoms and improve function.

Clinicians in the Women's Health Institute are creating a place where women can feel comfortable talking about chronic pelvic pain and what they can do to stop suffering and get relief. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Maureen Christian explains what the pelvic floor is, common disorders and when to reach out for treatment.

Urinary incontinence is common among women of all ages. Studies show that 25-45% of women suffer from this condition, but researchers found that urinary incontinence is severely under-reported. UT Health Austin's Women's Health Institute can help you resolve your urinary incontinence so you can get back to the life you love.

Reflecting the thinking of hundreds of experienced medical and administrative professionals, there are three driving ideas behind everything we do here at UT Health Austin: Every patient is the center of their own personalized care team, every patient is an individual with unique needs, and we measure outcomes that matter most to patients.

Congratulations to three UT Health Austin physicians who were selected as Austin’s Top Doctors in the 2018 January Issue of Austin Monthly Magazine! Austin Monthly’s Top Doctors are selected by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. a healthcare research and information company to help guide consumers to America’s top doctors and top hospitals.

Dr. Rebecca Rogers of the Women's Health Institute discusses the three specialized areas the clinic decided initially to focus on - pelvic floor disorders, chronic pelvic pain and vulvar disorders. Often times treatment for these conditions is hard for some women to find but here at UT Health Austin there's an emphasis placed on caring for these conditions.

Last year, David Warren was in a wheelchair. Today, he's hiking Enchanted Rock. After losing his home and his business in the 2011 Bastrop fires, Warren had little hope and was experiencing extreme pain, but after receiving treatment at the Musculoskeletal Institute he's out of a wheelchair and back to enjoying life again.