PDX Monthly has named Dr. David Westerdahl one of Portland’s Top Sports Medicine Doctors for 2024

Dr. Westerdahl is proud to be presenting and teaching medical providers on ultrasound guided procedures at the 2024 Musculoskeletal Galaxy Conference in Portland, Oregon

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Medical Weight Loss and Obesity Management

ITS GOING TO BE A JOURNEY

The epidemic of obesity has increased in severity over the last twenty years, with 41.9% of U.S. adults meeting the criteria for obesity in 2021. Treating obesity is important for restoring one's quality of life and further improving it. Obesity may inhibit the ability to play sports and lead an active lifestyle which may have long-term social, physical, and emotional consequences.

At Sports Health Northwest, we want all our patients to be able to make the most of their health. That is why we offer a multitude of services for different areas. Whether it is treating a sports-related injury, actively preventing injuries from occurring, or treating other health areas, we want to ensure that all our patients can lead an enjoyable and active lifestyle.

As Oregonians, we are blessed with many opportunities to enjoy the beautiful nature our state has to offer. In the summer, we can enjoy the warmth and sunshine by hiking Multnomah Falls, swimming in the river, biking along the Gorge, and walking through the Saturday Market. In the winter, we can enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor, night tubing at Ski Bowl, beautiful
displays of lights at the Oregon Zoo, and chilly walks under the snow flurries with loved ones.

Enjoying these activities may be difficult when suffering from obesity but rest assured that there is hope. Although it may seem daunting, treating obesity is a tangible undertaking and made even more possible when done with the support of a medical care team. Together with a care team, options for treatment include comprehensive lab analysis, thorough evaluation of secondary causes of obesity, sleep assessment, referral to physical therapy, counseling for behavior and nutrition, medical supervision of weight loss medications, and coordination with your primary care team.

Our team would love to be a part of your care team in treating and managing obesity. We offer a variety of resources to create an individualized approach that is most appropriate for each patient and their specific needs. We operate under a patient-centered approach which upholds the values of empathy and compassion in treatment. In addition to following a patient-centered approach, we value a detailed history of nutrition and general background to get a comprehensive view of how to best treat our patients.

While it may seem impossible, treating obesity is a very plausible and worthwhile
endeavor. The additional accountability and resources that come from making us a part of your care team can aid in making the process easier and more enjoyable.

Don’t let obesity hold you back from the plethora of opportunities Portland and the rest of Oregon have to offer. Take charge of your health and begin to enjoy a new world of activities and exploration in our great outdoors!

Author
Dr Westerdahl David Westerdahl MD FAAFP RMSK Sports Medicine Physician and owner Sports Health Northwest, Inc.

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