Bladder or bowel leakage may be common, but that does not mean you simply have to live with it. In this episode of Southwest General Health Talk, Trish Strazar, Doctor of Physical Therapy, explains how the core and pelvic floor muscles work together to support bladder and bowel control.

Learn what can weaken or disrupt the pelvic floor, why incontinence can affect people at many stages of life and how pelvic floor physical therapy can help. Trish also explains what patients can expect during an evaluation, how treatments such as biofeedback may be used and why pelvic floor therapy is tailored to each person’s specific needs.

When knee or hip pain begins to interfere with everyday activities, joint replacement may be worth considering. But how do you know when it is time for surgery—and what does recovery really involve?

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Daniel Karns discusses the most common reasons people need knee or hip replacement, nonsurgical treatments that may help delay surgery and advances that have changed joint replacement over the years. He also explains what patients can expect before and after surgery, the important role of physical therapy and the activities many people can return to following recovery.

Mental health diagnoses can help patients and providers better understand symptoms, guide treatment and create a shared language for care. But diagnoses are not always as clear-cut as people may expect. In this episode of Southwest General Health Talk, psychiatrist Awais Aftab, MD, explains why conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and bipolar disorder can look different from person to person, why symptoms may change over time and why a diagnosis is only one part of a much bigger picture. 

Learn more about M. Awais Aftab, MD 

Significant weight loss can improve your health, but it may also leave excess skin that can cause rashes, discomfort, back pain and difficulty with everyday activities. Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Ayesha Punjabi explains when patients may be ready for skin removal surgery, which areas are commonly treated and what to expect from the procedures, scars and recovery process. She also discusses how these surgeries can improve comfort, function and quality of life. 

Learn more about Ayesha Punjabi, MD 

This episode breaks down how to tell routine soreness from a problem that needs medical attention and why early evaluation can prevent long-term damage. Dr. Daniel Kana, DO, orthopedic surgeon at Southwest General Health Center, explains red flags and the typical office visit. Learn about knee pain, knee swelling, when to see a doctor, ACL tear signs, meniscus tear symptoms, and conservative care like physical therapy and RICE. Request an appointment or learn more at swgeneral.com and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more health videos. 

Learn more about Dr. Kana 

This episode explores how hospice care supports patients and families beyond medical treatment, focusing on grief, spiritual care, and the vital role of volunteers. It matters because understanding bereavement support and hospice services helps families find dignity and connection during end-of-life transitions. Featuring Rev. Erin Guzmán, Chaplain and Spiritual Care Coordinator at Southwest General Health Center, and Stephanie Maricic, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator at Southwest General Hospice.

For many women, perimenopause and menopause raise more questions than answers. What symptoms are normal? How long does the transition last? What treatments are safe and effective?

Dr. Alton provides straightforward, evidence-based insight into this important stage of life. Learn what to expect, how care has evolved and why personalized treatment matters. This episode is designed to help women feel informed, supported and better prepared for the years ahead. 

Learn more about John Alton, MD 

In this episode, we tackle common misconceptions about hospice care, drawing on insights from Jenny Schumacher, RN, BSN, and Autumn Fleming, RN, BSN. Discover why hospice is more about living comfortably than facing death, and how it provides critical support for patients and families. Tune in to learn about home hospice services, emotional support, and how to make the most of this crucial phase of care.

Hand symptoms can make everyday tasks harder than they should be. In this episode, Dr. Ayesha Punjabi breaks down common causes of hand pain, numbness and stiffness, including carpal tunnel, trigger finger and arthritis. She shares what causes these conditions, what treatments may help and when surgery might be the best option. 

Learn more about Ayesha Punjabi, MD 

A breast cancer diagnosis can bring a flood of decisions. In this episode of Southwest General Health Talk, Dr. Ayesha Punjabi, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, explains when the conversation about breast reconstruction should begin, the options available and how patients can decide what feels right for them. Learn about immediate vs. delayed reconstruction, implant vs. flap procedures and what recovery may look like. 

Learn more about Ayesha Punjabi, MD