MSFM 001
Multiple Small Feedings of the Mind: Geriatrics, Obesity, and Chronic Pain

Clinical questions to be addressed:

Geriatrics
1. When should internists recommend the varicella-zoster vaccine? What are practical considerations when administering the vaccine in the office?
2. Describe effective fall risk prevention and risk management tools used in the office practice.
3. What is the evidence-based efficacy of behavioral techniques, such as Kegel exercises, timed voids, physical therapy for bladder retraining and biofeedback?
Obesity
1. Should patients with a BMI over 30 be treated more aggressively for borderline blood pressure, glucose, and lipid elevations?
2. What are effective pharmacotherapeutic agents for the treatment of obesity? What can internists recommend regarding diet pills such as OTC orlistat and hoodia?
3. What does the internist need to know about the long-term care of patients who have undergone bariatric surgery?
Chronic Pain
1. What is the role of novel medications such as pregabalin in the treatment of chronic pain? Are there evidence- based specific titration schedules being utilized with these medications?
2. What medications should an internist consider for the treatment of fibromyalgia?
3. What is the evidence supporting the use of epidural and facet injections for back pain? Which patients are optimal candidates for these procedures?