KORT develops weight loss program

Kentucky Orthopedic Rehab Team has developed a Personalized Orthopedic Weight Reduction program as a healthy and effective way to lose weight while improving overall health and fitness.

"Obesity in both adults and children has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. Obesity increases your risk for Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer and osteoarthritis of the weight bearing joints," physical therapist Colleen Ball said.

The program helps participants reach a healthy body weight and body mass index, decrease risk for diseases, improve function and reduce pain, increase energy levels, increase strength and stamina for sports and activities and improve self-esteem and quality of life.

"The POWR program doesn't just focus on reducing caloric intake, it's also about educating patients on how to make better food choices and giving them the tools to change their eating habits for life. Many popular weight loss programs let dieters eat whatever they want in smaller portions, but when they've reached their goal and stop the program they regain the weight because their eating behavior hasn't changed," Ball said.

Patients in the POWR program are encouraged to exercise at home and track their food choices and activity level.

"Both exercise and weight loss are carefully monitored with metrics to ensure a healthy weight loss. In addition, patients are being educated along the way so they can make permanent lifestyle changes to reach and maintain their long-term weight loss goals, Ball said.

The program is covered by most insurance plans, especially if being overweight or obese is leading to a medical condition such as joint pain or back pain.

A physician can refer patients to the program.

For more information, visit www.kort.com or call 469-1076 for an appointment.