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Are you having back pain with any of the following?

Severe pain, weakness or tingling in your leg(s).
Difficulty stopping urination or loss of control of bladder or bowels.
Unexplained fever, nausea or vomiting.
A history of cancer or unexplained weight loss.

We understand that you are experiencing one or more of the health issues that might be impacting your back pain.

We recommend that you discuss these health issues with your doctor before proceeding with this program.

Once you are cleared by your doctor to do this program, we hope it helps you find relief from your back pain.

Brigid McCaw, MD

Internal Medicine

Welcome to My Doctor Online, a web site that my colleagues and I developed to make it easier for you to take care of your healthcare needs. On this site you will find answers to many of your questions about my clinical practice. Also included are several online features that will allow you to e-mail me, check your laboratory results and refill prescriptions. I hope you find its content informative and useful.

My Offices

Richmond Medical Center: Appt/Advice: 510-307-1555

See all office information »

Topic	Tools
Back - Spine Care	Strong core (or “deep”) muscles help stabilize the body and improve posture. These exercises will strengthen your back and core muscles to improve stabilization. (14 Chapters) Exercises: Back Muscle Strengthening
Back - Spine Care	Body mechanics awareness helps you use proper posture and body movements to prevent pain and injury. (12 Chapters) Exercises: Body Mechanics
Back - Spine Care	The following group of exercises can help ease back pain by decreasing the load or pressure on your spine. (6 Chapters) Exercises: Positions to Help Ease Back Pain
Back - Spine Care	Learn exercises that will help increase flexibility in your trunk and legs. (12 Chapters) Exercises: Stretching for Flexibility
Back - Spine Care	Listen in as Kaiser Permanente experts discuss the importance of taking care of your back. (4 Segments) Introduction to Back Care
Back - Spine Care	Ivan Matsui, Physical Therapist discusses the importance of holding and moving your body correctly to promote healing and prevent future injury. (1 Minute) Introduction to Finding A Neutral Spine
Back - Spine Care	Ivan Matsui, Physical Therapist discusses the benefits of physical activity and reviews general exertion guidelines. (1 Minute) Introduction to Physical Activity
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after orthopedic surgery to the neck. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (Emmi)
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this lower spine surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (35 minutes) Lumbar Interbody Fusion, Posterior or Transforaminal (Emmi)
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this lower spine surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Lumbar Laminectomy (Emmi)
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this lower spine surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Lumbar Microdiscectomy (Emmi)
Back Care	Quick video tips and exercises to get better faster. Make changes in daily routines to reduce the chance of back pain returning. Managing Your Back Pain
Ergonomics	Does your back ache or do you have eye strain, tendonitis, or other symptoms of repetitive stress injury? Our unique program will show you how to set up your workstation, home office, or laptop to prevent injury. Smartmoves: Computer & Laptop Setup, Stretching (Ergonomics)
Exercise and Fitness	Doing these exercises will strengthen your muscles, improve your balance and coordination to prevent non-contact ACL (knee ligament) injuries. ACL Injury Prevention
Foot Care	Understand what causes heel pain, what you can do to ease the pain, and how to keep it from returning. Managing Your Heel Pain
Foot Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove a bunion from the outside of your toe and straighten out the toe, if necessary. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Bunionectomy with Possible Osteotomy (Emmi)
Hand Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to relieve pressure on the wrist nerve. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Carpal Tunnel Release (Emmi)
Hip Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to place a hip implant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Total Hip Replacement (Emmi)
Knee Care	Understand what causes knee pain, what you can do to ease the pain, and how to keep it from returning. Managing Your Knee Pain
Knee Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to replace a torn knee ligament with healthy tissue. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) ACL Reconstruction (Emmi)
Knee Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to look inside and treat the knee. Includes risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Knee Arthroscopy (Emmi)
Knee Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to place a knee implant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Total Knee Replacement (Emmi)
Shoulder Care	Understand what causes shoulder pain, what you can do to ease the pain, and how to keep it from returning. Managing Your Shoulder Pain
Shoulder Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to look inside and treat the shoulder. Includes risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Shoulder Arthroscopy (Emmi)
Shoulder Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to replace your shoulder joint with an implant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Shoulder Replacement (Emmi)

Topic	Tools
	East Bay Health Resources and Programs East Bay Health Resources and Programs
General Health	Learn how wellness coaches can help you create a plan for reaching your health goals. Wellness Coaching
Healthy Living	Search our database to find convenient, comprehensive health and wellness classes, individual counseling and support group resources, self-help kits and our healthy living stores. Classes

Topic	Tools
Anger	Learn about healthier approaches to anger management and Kaiser Permanente programs which are available to you, including classes and counseling. Anger Management: Choose to Make the Journey
Anger	Learn to put your anger aside by relaxing your body and calming your mind. Anger and forgiveness
Anxiety	This podcast includes guided relaxation and imagery exercises designed to help reduce or eliminate panic attacks. (6 Tracks) Panic Attacks and Anxiety
Anxiety	Feeling worried or nervous is a normal part of everyday life. However, if anxiety is severe, you may have feelings of helplessness, confusion, and extreme worry that can interfere with your daily life. Each video will help you understand anxiety better, what triggers it, and treatment options. (7 segments) Understanding Anxiety
Depression	Gain greater control over your depression and work toward feeling better. Manage depression with Overcoming™ Depression
Mental Health	Take a journey to your hurting heart and see that what you have lost is still alive inside of you. Ease grief
Mental Health	Need help reducing stress during the holidays? This podcast explores how holidays stress can sometimes trigger depression. Find ways to manage stress, stay healthy, and enjoy the holidays. (13 minutes) Holiday Depression
Mental Health	Boost your self-confidence and sense of mastery by taking a guided imagery journey. Self Confidence
Mental Health	Causes of depression, symptoms, and treatment options. (8 Tracks) Understanding Depression
Stress	This interactive questionnaire generates a customized action plan that shows you successful ways to reduce stress. Reduce stress with Relax™
Stress	When you are feeling stressed, this program can help you relax and bring about a feeling of calm. Relaxation and wellness
Stress	This guided imagery program uses 4 exercises to help you master stress and relieve anxiety. The exercises are designed to encourage feelings of love, safety and protection. The program includes a soothing, walking meditation as well as affirmations to use any time. It integrates simple breathing techniques along with the images. (4 Tracks) Relieve Stress
Stress	Kaiser Permanente surgeon Dr. Todd Dray discusses ways to identify stress and how it affects your daily life, and then outlines steps you can take today to reduce stress. (12 minutes) Stress Management
Stress	Using a combination of relaxation techniques, guided imagery, and music, this program helps you manage stress and other symptoms due to chronic pain or other chronic conditions. (5 part series) Stress Management for Medical Conditions

Topic	Tools
Breast Cancer - Surgery	Reviews what breast cancer is, treatment options such as surgery, radiation, and medical therapies, as well as how care is coordinated with your care team. Also view a patient story. Understanding Breast Cancer
Breastfeeding	Covers breastfeeding fundamentals, including benefits, getting started, and proper positions; also addresses commonly asked questions. (20 minutes) Breastfeeding (Emmi)
Chronic Conditions	Your ongoing health condition can be managed with various self-management tools. Manage chronic conditions with Care™ for Your Health
Cold and Flu	This Cold and Flu site was created to provide you helpful tips, tools and information to help get you through the season in good health. Cold, Flu and Cough
Depression	Gain greater control over your depression and work toward feeling better. Manage depression with Overcoming™ Depression
Diabetes	Care™ for Diabetes is customized specifically for you. The program will assess your daily routine and general health, then give you ways to manage diabetes more effectively. Manage diabetes with Care™ for Diabetes
Ergonomics	Does your back ache or do you have eye strain, tendonitis, or other symptoms of repetitive stress injury? Our unique program will show you how to set up your workstation, home office, or laptop to prevent injury. Smartmoves: Computer & Laptop Setup, Stretching (Ergonomics)
Foot Care	Understand what causes heel pain, what you can do to ease the pain, and how to keep it from returning. Managing Your Heel Pain
Headaches	The Managing Your Headaches program will help you learn more about types of headaches, what causes them, common symptoms, and your specific headache triggers. The program provides options to help you manage your headaches through good self-care and lifestyle changes, as well as medication. Managing Your Headaches
Healthy Living	Health Coach is an online, interactive, behavioral change program designed to improve your health. It includes 3 modules: Let's Get Physical, S.M.A.R.T. Eating and Stress Less. Online Health Coach
Healthy Living	The Succeed™ program will help you examine what's affecting your overall health—from how often you exercise to what you eat in the morning. Take a total health assessment and get a customized action plan for a healthier lifestyle. Take a total health assessment with Succeed™
Healthy Living	This interactive tool asks you questions to help determine which health screenings you need. Which Health Screenings Do You Need?
Knee Care	Understand what causes knee pain, what you can do to ease the pain, and how to keep it from returning. Managing Your Knee Pain
Nosebleeds	These questions help you decide whether to get medical care for your nosebleeds. Nosebleeds: Check Your Symptoms
Nutrition	Interactive program to create a nutrition plan that’s custom-made for your lifestyle, with personalized strategies for making smart, satisfying food choices that can improve your health and well-being. Eat healthy with Nourish™
Nutrition and Weight	Use this Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator to quickly learn if you are at a healthy weight for your height. BMI Calculator
Pain Management	Examine how chronic pain affects your life and learn ways to manage it. Manage pain with Care™ for Pain
Shoulder Care	Understand what causes shoulder pain, what you can do to ease the pain, and how to keep it from returning. Managing Your Shoulder Pain
Sleep	You can manage your insomnia by teaching yourself to sleep better. Get a good night's sleep with Overcoming™ Insomnia
Smoking - Tobacco	Did you know there are medicines that can help you quit tobacco? We offer many options, including nicotine replacement medicines, non-nicotine medicines, and combination medicines. Our animated online program will help you learn more about which medication might be right for you, how to manage withdrawal symptoms, and how to succeed in quitting tobacco for good. Quit Tobacco Medications
Smoking - Tobacco	HealthMedia® Breathe™ is an online program that helps give you a complete look at why it's hard to quit smoking and supports your motivation to give up the habit. Quit smoking with Breathe™
Stress	This interactive questionnaire generates a customized action plan that shows you successful ways to reduce stress. Reduce stress with Relax™
Stress	This tool will help you determine your stress level based on the number of life changes you have had recently. What is Your Stress Level?

Topic	Tools
Breast Cancer - Screening	La Dra. Janet Wiese describe porqué las pruebas de detección de cáncer de seno son importantes para conservar la salud. Conozca qué sucede durante un mamograma. Las mamografías salvan vidas (Spanish)
Breast Cancer - Screening	Dr. Tracy Flanagan describes why breast cancer screening is an important part of maintaining your health. Learn about what to expect during your mammogram. (2 minutes) Mammograms Save Lives
Cold and Flu	This Cold and Flu site was created to provide you helpful tips, tools and information to help get you through the season in good health. Cold, Flu and Cough
Diabetes	These videos focus on five important health topics that speak to the unique health care needs of the Latino community as well as two of the greatest health risks to Latinos today: diabetes and obesity. (5 Tracks) Choose Health
Diabetes - Espanol	Estos vídeos se enfocan en cinco temas importantes sobre las necesidades únicas de la salud en la comunidad latina, así como dos de los mayores riesgos de la salud para los latinos hoy en día: la diabetes y la obesidad. (5 vídeos) Escoge La Salud (Spanish)
Ergonomics	Does your back ache or do you have eye strain, tendonitis, or other symptoms of repetitive stress injury? Our unique program will show you how to set up your workstation, home office, or laptop to prevent injury. Smartmoves: Computer & Laptop Setup, Stretching (Ergonomics)
Exercise and Fitness	Struggling to fit exercise into your daily routine? This podcast provides quick tips for busy people on starting and maintaining a regular exercise program. (8 minutes) Exercise Lite
Exercise and Fitness	Preventing workout-related injuries is the focus of this podcast. We’ll talk about how you can prevent and treat common injuries while staying active and maintaining your motivation to exercise. (17 minutes) Exercise Smart
Exercise and Fitness	This podcast discusses the benefits of walking. You can feel more energetic and help maintain a healthy weight just by incorporating this simple activity into your life. (19 minutes) Walking For Health
Healthy Living	Search our database to find convenient, comprehensive health and wellness classes, individual counseling and support group resources, self-help kits and our healthy living stores. Classes
Healthy Living	Discover how everyday healthy pleasures can promote health and happiness. (17 minutes) Healthy Pleasures
Healthy Living	Health Coach is an online, interactive, behavioral change program designed to improve your health. It includes 3 modules: Let's Get Physical, S.M.A.R.T. Eating and Stress Less. Online Health Coach
Mental Health	Need help reducing stress during the holidays? This podcast explores how holidays stress can sometimes trigger depression. Find ways to manage stress, stay healthy, and enjoy the holidays. (13 minutes) Holiday Depression
Nutrition and Weight	Use this Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator to quickly learn if you are at a healthy weight for your height. BMI Calculator
Nutrition and Weight	Created for busy parents striving to provide healthy meals for their families, these three videos offer practical tips for shopping, cooking and preparing snacks. (3 videos) Healthy Tips for Families: Shopping, Cooking and Snacking
Nutrition and Weight	Let Carole Bartolotto, a Kaiser Permanente Registered Dietician, guide you through your kitchen to identify unhealthy foods and find ways to include healthier alternatives. (4 Tracks) In The Kitchen With Carole
Nutrition and Weight	Healthy eating tips, including cutting calories by putting more fruits and vegetables on your plate. Nutrition Mini-Series
Nutrition and Weight	To be successful at reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, it helps to honestly assess how ready you are to make changes. This podcast helps you explore this important issue. (10 minutes) Ready to Lose Weight
Nutrition and Weight	This audio program encourages a sense of wonder and appreciation for the body, heightens serotonin to reduce appetite, and envisions the biochemical conversion of fat into focused energy and muscle. Empowering and confidence-building, this program was shown to double weight loss in a placebo-controlled pilot study. While not a substitute for eating less or exercising more, the program can reinforce your efforts to reach a healthy weight. (3 Tracks) Weight Loss
Nutrition and Weight - Espanol	¿Quiere comer mejor? Deje que María le guíe a usted por su cocina para identificar los alimentos poco saludables y las alternativas más saludables. (4 pistas) En la cocina con María (Spanish)
Skin Health	Dr. William Lide, Dermatologist at Kaiser Permanente discusses how to protect your skin from the sun, while enjoying the great outdoors. (9 minutes) Sun Protection
Sleep	This guided imagery program creates an atmosphere of protection and safety using images that are evocative enough to successfully replace the brain chatter that keeps us awake. Recorded music draws mind, body and spirit down into deep, restful sleep. (3 Tracks) Healthful Sleep
Smoking - Tobacco	Did you know there are medicines that can help you quit tobacco? We offer many options, including nicotine replacement medicines, non-nicotine medicines, and combination medicines. Our animated online program will help you learn more about which medication might be right for you, how to manage withdrawal symptoms, and how to succeed in quitting tobacco for good. Quit Tobacco Medications
Smoking - Tobacco	HealthMedia® Breathe™ is an online program that helps give you a complete look at why it's hard to quit smoking and supports your motivation to give up the habit. Quit smoking with Breathe™
Smoking - Tobacco	Quitting tobacco and staying smoke-free is one of the best things you can do for your health. This podcast talks about how to begin the process of becoming smoke-free and how it will benefit your health. (15 minutes) Quitting Smoking
Smoking - Tobacco	Do you know how other people’s smoke might be affecting you and your health? Learn how to protect yourself from the health effects of second-hand smoke. (7 minutes) Second-Hand Smoke
Stress	This interactive questionnaire generates a customized action plan that shows you successful ways to reduce stress. Reduce stress with Relax™
Stress	When you are feeling stressed, this program can help you relax and bring about a feeling of calm. Relaxation and wellness
Stress	This guided imagery program uses 4 exercises to help you master stress and relieve anxiety. The exercises are designed to encourage feelings of love, safety and protection. The program includes a soothing, walking meditation as well as affirmations to use any time. It integrates simple breathing techniques along with the images. (4 Tracks) Relieve Stress
Stress	Kaiser Permanente surgeon Dr. Todd Dray discusses ways to identify stress and how it affects your daily life, and then outlines steps you can take today to reduce stress. (12 minutes) Stress Management
Stress	Using a combination of relaxation techniques, guided imagery, and music, this program helps you manage stress and other symptoms due to chronic pain or other chronic conditions. (5 part series) Stress Management for Medical Conditions
Stress	This tool will help you determine your stress level based on the number of life changes you have had recently. What is Your Stress Level?
Women's Health - Pap Test	Dr. Tracy Flanagan describes why cervical cancer screening is an important part of maintaining your health. Learn about what to expect during your Pap test appointment. (2 minutes) Cervical Cancer Screening Saves Lives
Women's Health - Pap Test	La Dra. Janet Wiese describe porqué las pruebas de detección de cáncer de cuello de útero son importantes para conservar la salud. Conozca qué sucede durante la cita para la prueba de Papanicolaou. La detección del cancer de cuello del útero salva vidas (Spanish)

Topic	Tools
Allergies	Kaiser Permanente allergist Dr. Kelvin Lee helps you learn how to prevent and treat your allergy symptoms so that you can enjoy life no matter what the season. Allergies can be caused by things like pollen, dust mites, and mold. Which ones bother you? Listen to our podcast to learn how to manage your allergies. (10 minutes) Managing Allergies
Allergies	This guided imagery program helps you gain better control of allergic reactions and reduce symptoms, such as a runny nose, rashes, or upset stomach. (3 Tracks) Relieve allergies
Anger	Learn to put your anger aside by relaxing your body and calming your mind. Anger and forgiveness
Anxiety	This podcast includes guided relaxation and imagery exercises designed to help reduce or eliminate panic attacks. (6 Tracks) Panic Attacks and Anxiety
Cancer - Prevention	This guided imagery program helps listeners strengthen motivation and mobilize their energy to successfully fight cancer. It combines images of tumors shrinking and fighter cells battling and triumphing over cancer cells. Empowering music broadcasts strength, support, safety and hope. (3 Tracks) Fight Cancer
Cancer - Treatment	Designed to help people undergoing chemotherapy, this guided imagery audio provides a gentle but powerful way to encourage healing. Using an image of a fountain of healing liquid that cleanses and clears the body, it supports the body’s natural defense system and helps reduce any side effects. (3 Tracks) Chemotherapy
Cancer - Treatment	Using the image of a powerful beam of light that knows exactly how to heal you, this program is designed to help you relax, feel stronger, and get the most out of your radiation therapy. Research shows that listening to guided imagery can help speed healing, soothe nerves, restore energy, and relieve pain. Try to listen once or twice a day before or after your treatments, but remember any time is a good time to use guided imagery. (3 Tracks) Radiation Therapy
Cold and Flu	Learn how to prevent colds and flu, how to recover as quickly as possible if you do get them, and when to call Kaiser Permanente. (15 minutes) Cold and Flu
Exercise and Fitness	Struggling to fit exercise into your daily routine? This podcast provides quick tips for busy people on starting and maintaining a regular exercise program. (8 minutes) Exercise Lite
Exercise and Fitness	Preventing workout-related injuries is the focus of this podcast. We’ll talk about how you can prevent and treat common injuries while staying active and maintaining your motivation to exercise. (17 minutes) Exercise Smart
Exercise and Fitness	This podcast discusses the benefits of walking. You can feel more energetic and help maintain a healthy weight just by incorporating this simple activity into your life. (19 minutes) Walking For Health
Headaches	This guided imagery program offers tips for relieving headaches and has affirmations that you can use again and again. (4 tracks) Relieve headaches
Headaches	Dr. Rahul Parikh, a physician at Kaiser Permanente, discusses tension headaches in this podcast. He describes what they are, what to do when you have one, and how you can decrease your chances of getting tension headaches. (13:03) Tension Headaches
Healthy Living	Discover how everyday healthy pleasures can promote health and happiness. (17 minutes) Healthy Pleasures
Healthy Living	Use this program to strengthen and balance your immune system. Healthy immune system
Hearing	This podcast discusses how long term excessive use of iPods can cause hearing loss. Listen to Dr. Keith Matsuoka explain how. Hearing Loss and iPods
Heart - Cardiovascular	Reduce stress and cultivate a sense of peace and gratitude. Healthy Heart
Menopause	The Mastering Menopause program provides support for menopause as a naturally powerful transition in a woman’s life. The imagery helps to harness liberated energy and creativity; balance mood; reinforce self-esteem and confidence; encourage restful sleep; and redefine notions of beauty and aging. This audio program is a helpful tool for coping with the natural ups and downs of menopause. (3 Tracks) Mastering Menopause
Mental Health	Take a journey to your hurting heart and see that what you have lost is still alive inside of you. Ease grief
Mental Health	Need help reducing stress during the holidays? This podcast explores how holidays stress can sometimes trigger depression. Find ways to manage stress, stay healthy, and enjoy the holidays. (13 minutes) Holiday Depression
Mental Health	Boost your self-confidence and sense of mastery by taking a guided imagery journey. Self Confidence
Nutrition and Weight	Let Carole Bartolotto, a Kaiser Permanente Registered Dietician, guide you through your kitchen to identify unhealthy foods and find ways to include healthier alternatives. (4 Tracks) In The Kitchen With Carole
Nutrition and Weight	Healthy eating tips, including cutting calories by putting more fruits and vegetables on your plate. Nutrition Mini-Series
Nutrition and Weight	To be successful at reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, it helps to honestly assess how ready you are to make changes. This podcast helps you explore this important issue. (10 minutes) Ready to Lose Weight
Nutrition and Weight	This audio program encourages a sense of wonder and appreciation for the body, heightens serotonin to reduce appetite, and envisions the biochemical conversion of fat into focused energy and muscle. Empowering and confidence-building, this program was shown to double weight loss in a placebo-controlled pilot study. While not a substitute for eating less or exercising more, the program can reinforce your efforts to reach a healthy weight. (3 Tracks) Weight Loss
Pain Management	This guided imagery program is designed for people who want help in managing pain. By encouraging relaxation when you are in physical or emotional pain, refocusing the mind, and marshalling brain chemicals that elevate mood, this audio program helps minimize or even transform pain. (3 Tracks) Ease Pain
Pain Management	Use this guided imagery program to get better sleep, reduce pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia and fatigue
Skin Health	Dr. William Lide, Dermatologist at Kaiser Permanente discusses how to protect your skin from the sun, while enjoying the great outdoors. (9 minutes) Sun Protection
Sleep	This guided imagery program creates an atmosphere of protection and safety using images that are evocative enough to successfully replace the brain chatter that keeps us awake. Recorded music draws mind, body and spirit down into deep, restful sleep. (3 Tracks) Healthful Sleep
Smoking - Tobacco	Quitting tobacco and staying smoke-free is one of the best things you can do for your health. This podcast talks about how to begin the process of becoming smoke-free and how it will benefit your health. (15 minutes) Quitting Smoking
Smoking - Tobacco	Do you know how other people’s smoke might be affecting you and your health? Learn how to protect yourself from the health effects of second-hand smoke. (7 minutes) Second-Hand Smoke
Stress	When you are feeling stressed, this program can help you relax and bring about a feeling of calm. Relaxation and wellness
Stress	This guided imagery program uses 4 exercises to help you master stress and relieve anxiety. The exercises are designed to encourage feelings of love, safety and protection. The program includes a soothing, walking meditation as well as affirmations to use any time. It integrates simple breathing techniques along with the images. (4 Tracks) Relieve Stress
Stress	Kaiser Permanente surgeon Dr. Todd Dray discusses ways to identify stress and how it affects your daily life, and then outlines steps you can take today to reduce stress. (12 minutes) Stress Management
Stress	Using a combination of relaxation techniques, guided imagery, and music, this program helps you manage stress and other symptoms due to chronic pain or other chronic conditions. (5 part series) Stress Management for Medical Conditions
Surgery	Listen to Guided Imagery to reduce anxiety before surgery and assist in healing. (5 Tracks) Successful Surgery

Prepare for Your Procedure - Emmi

Topic	Tools
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after orthopedic surgery to the neck. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (Emmi)
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this lower spine surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (35 minutes) Lumbar Interbody Fusion, Posterior or Transforaminal (Emmi)
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this lower spine surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Lumbar Laminectomy (Emmi)
Back - Spine Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this lower spine surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Lumbar Microdiscectomy (Emmi)
Birth Control	What to expect before, during and after surgery to block the fallopian tubes for permanent birth control. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Permanent Birth Control: Micro-Inserts (Emmi)
Birth Control	What to expect before, during and after surgery to cut the fallopian tubes for permanent birth control. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Tubal Ligation, Interval (Emmi)
Birth Control	What to expect before, during and after a procedure providing permanent birth control for men. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Vasectomy (Emmi)
Breast Biopsy	What to expect before, during and after this procedure to take a sample of breast tissue for testing. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Breast Biopsy (Emmi)
Breast Cancer - Surgery	Overview of options for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, including using your own tissue or implants. Covers risk and benefits of options. (20 minutes) Breast Reconstruction (Emmi)
Breast Cancer - Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to treat breast cancer by removing the cancerous growth. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Lumpectomy (Emmi)
Breast Cancer - Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove breast tissue. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Mastectomy (Emmi)
Breastfeeding	Covers breastfeeding fundamentals, including benefits, getting started, and proper positions; also addresses commonly asked questions. (20 minutes) Breastfeeding (Emmi)
Cancer - Treatment	Covers the basics of getting chemotherapy to treat cancer, including life during treatment, side effects, and common concerns. (25 minutes) Chemotherapy (Emmi)
Cancer - Treatment	What to expect before, during and after this procedure to make it easier to get medicine into your body. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Jugular Access Port (Emmi)
Cancer - Treatment	Covers the basics of getting external-beam radiation therapy, including life during treatment and side effects. (25 minutes) Radiation Therapy (Emmi)
Cancer - Treatment	What to expect before, during and after surgery to implant a small entry point near the collarbone for putting medicine into your bloodstream. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Subclavian Venous Access Port (Emmi)
Children's Health - Surgery	What to expect when your child is getting anesthesia for a surgery; covers how to prepare your child and different types of anesthesia used. (25 minutes) Anesthesia for Your Child (Emmi)
Children's Health - Surgery	Ways to keep your child safe before, during, and after your visit to the hospital or surgery center. Covers what to expect during your child's stay. (10 minutes) Patient Safety for Your Child (Emmi)
Children's Health - Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove tissue from the back of a child's throat. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Tonsillectomy with Possible Adenoidectomy (Emmi)
Colon Exam	What to expect before, during and after a procedure to examine the inside of the colon and remove small polyps, if necessary. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Colonoscopy (Emmi)
Colon Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove some or all of the large intestine (colon). Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Colectomy (Emmi)
Ear Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this surgery on the eardrum. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Myringotomy (Emmi)
Eye Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove a cataract and place a lens implant in the eye. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Cataract Surgery (Emmi)
Eye Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove a cataract and place a lens implant in the eye. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Cataract Surgery with IOL Options (Emmi)
Eye Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this vision correction surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Lasik (Emmi)
Foot Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove a bunion from the outside of your toe and straighten out the toe, if necessary. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Bunionectomy with Possible Osteotomy (Emmi)
Gallbladder Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove the gallbladder through small incisions. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic (Emmi)
Hand Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to relieve pressure on the wrist nerve. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Carpal Tunnel Release (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular	Understanding treatment options for irregular heart beat. Covers risks and benefits of medication and surgery. (20 minutes) Atrial Fibrillation (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular	What to expect before, during and after surgery to implant a pacemaker device to the heart. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Cardiac Pacemaker (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular	What to expect before, during and after this procedure to place a CRT-D defibrillator in the chest. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Defib (Cardiac Resynchroniziation Therapy Defibrillator) (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular	What to expect before, during and after this procedure to place an ICD defibrillator in the chest. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Defib (Implantable Cardioverter) (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after a procedure to discover if blood vessels to the heart are blocked or narrowed and to possibly treat any blockages. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Angiogram with Possible Angioplasty (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to replace a valve to the heart. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Aortic Valve Replacement (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to treat irregular heartbeat. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Catheter Ablation for AFib (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to treat a racing heartbeat. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Catheter Ablation for SVT (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to treat a heartbeat problem causing low blood pressure. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Catheter Ablation for VT (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this surgery to improve blood flow to the heart. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Coronary Bypass Surgery (Emmi)
Heart - Cardiovascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to repair or replace a heart valve. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery (30 minutes) Mitral Valve Repair or Replacement (Emmi)
Hernia Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to repair a hole or weak area in the abdominal wall that occured on the site of an old incision. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Incisional Hernia (Emmi)
Hernia Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to repair a hole or weak area in the abdominal wall. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Inguinal Hernia (Emmi)
Hernia Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to repair a gap in the abdominal wall near the navel. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Umbilical Hernia (Emmi)
Hip Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to place a hip implant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Total Hip Replacement (Emmi)
Intestinal Exam	What to expect before, during and after surgery to clear a blocked bile duct or pancreatic duct. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) ERCP (Emmi)
Intestinal Exam	What to expect before, during and after a procedure that uses a small tube to look for, and possibly treat, problems in your upper digestive system. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Upper GI Endoscopy (Emmi)
Kidneys	What to expect before, during and after donating a kidney. Covers common questions, the evaluation process, and risks and benefits. (15 minutes) Kidney - Becoming A Donor (Emmi)
Kidneys	What to expect before, during and after a deceased donor kidney transplant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Kidney Transplant (Deceased Donor) (Emmi)
Kidneys	What to expect before, during and after a living donor kidney transplant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Kidney Transplant (Living Donor) (Emmi)
Kidneys	Covers adjusting to life after a kidney transplant, including what to expect after you get home and what you need to know about your immune system. (15 minutes) Kidney Transplant - Living with a New Kidney (Emmi)
Knee Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to replace a torn knee ligament with healthy tissue. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) ACL Reconstruction (Emmi)
Knee Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to look inside and treat the knee. Includes risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Knee Arthroscopy (Emmi)
Knee Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to place a knee implant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Total Knee Replacement (Emmi)
Medications - Anticoagulation	What to expect when taking Warfarin (Coumadin) blood-thinning medication. How to manage and monitor your medication and what can affect your dosage level. (25 minutes) Taking Warfarin (Coumadin®) (Emmi)
Organ Transplants	The basics of organ transplantation, including evaluation for getting an organ, the national waiting list, and how to prepare for the procedure. (25 minutes) Organ Transplant Overview (Emmi)
Parathyroid Surgery	What to expect before, during and after this surgery to remove your parathyroid gland(s). Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Parathyroidectomy (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Breast	What to expect before, during and after surgery to augment breast size with saline implants. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Breast Augmentation with Saline-Filled Implants (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Breast	What to expect before, during and after surgery to augment breast size with gel implants. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Breast Augmentation with Silicone Gel-Filled Implants (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Breast	What to expect before, during and after surgery to reduce breast size. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Breast Reduction (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Eyelid	What to expect before, during and after this eyelid surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Blepharoplasty (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Facelift	What to expect before, during and after surgery to tighten sagging skin on your lower face and neck. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Facelift (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Liposuction	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove unwanted fat. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (15 minutes) Liposuction (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Nose	What to expect before, during and after nose surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Rhinoplasty or Septorhinoplasty (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Nose	What to expect before, during and after nose surgery to straighten the nasal septum. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Septoplasty (Emmi)
Plastic Surgery - Tummy Tuck	What to expect before, during and after tummy tuck surgery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Abdominoplasty (Emmi)
Pregnancy - Cesarean Section	What to expect before, during and after surgery to deliver a baby through cuts that are made in the belly and uterus. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) C-Section (Emmi)
Pregnancy - Labor and Delivery	What to expect during labor and delivery. Explains common interventions such as medication to induce labor and pain medication such as epidural. (35 minutes) Childbirth (Emmi)
Pregnancy - Labor and Delivery	Explains epidurals, spinal blocks, and other medications to ease pain during labor and delivery. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Pain Relief for Childbirth (Emmi)
Pregnancy - Labor and Delivery	What to expect before, during and after a vaginal birth following a previous C-section. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Vaginal Birth After C-Section (VBAC) (Emmi)
Prostate Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove the entire prostate gland. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 mins) Radical Prostatectomy (Emmi)
Prostate Surgery	What to expect before, during and after robot-assisted surgery to remove the entire prostate gland. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (Emmi)
Prostate Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to treat an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatitic hyperplasia, or BPH). Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Transurethral Resection or Ablation of the Prostate (Emmi)
Shoulder Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to look inside and treat the shoulder. Includes risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Shoulder Arthroscopy (Emmi)
Shoulder Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to replace your shoulder joint with an implant. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Shoulder Replacement (Emmi)
Sinus Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to open up your sinuses. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (Emmi)
Sleep	Explains obstructive sleep apnea, testing for this condition, and treatment options that exist. (20 minutes) Sleep Apnea (Emmi)
Sleep	Getting started with a nighttime breathing device for sleep apnea; finding the right mask for you and getting adjusted to it. Covers benefits, alternatives, and troubleshooting. (20 minutes) Using a CPAP for Sleep Apnea (Emmi)
Surgery	Covers ways you can keep yourself safe before, during and after your visit to the hospital or clinic. (15 minutes) Patient Safety (Emmi)
Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to treat urinary incontinence in women. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Urethral Sling (Emmi)
Surgery	Information about staying in the hospital. Covers good communication, medications, and pain management. (10 minutes) What to Expect During Your Hospital Stay (Emmi)
Surgery - Anesthesia	What to expect when getting anesthesia for pain during a surgery; covers general, spinal and epidural anesthesia; explains moderate sedation. (20 minutes) Anesthesia for an Adult (Emmi)
Throat and Lung Exam	What to expect before, during and after a procedure to look inside your lungs with a small camera and possibly treat any condition that is found. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Bronchoscopy (Emmi)
Thyroid Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove the thyroid gland. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Thyroidectomy (Emmi)
Uterine Fibroid Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove a fibroid from the uterus. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery.(30 minutes) Abdominal Myomectomy (Emmi)
Vascular Surgery	What to expect before, during, and after a procedure to repair an abnormal bulge in the abdominal aorta (major artery in the belly). Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. This surgery is also known as AAA EVAR. (30 minutes) Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Endovascular Repair (Emmi)
Vascular Surgery	What to expect before, during and after a surgery to unblock arteries in the neck. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Carotid Endarterectomy (Emmi)
Weight Loss - Bariatric Surgery	What to expect before, during and after weight loss surgery that uses a ring or belt to reduce the size of the stomach. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Gastric Banding (Adjustable) (Emmi)
Weight Loss - Bariatric Surgery	What to expect before, during and after weight loss surgery to reduce the size of the stomach and bypass a part of the small intestine. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (35 minutes) Gastric Bypass (Laparoscopic) (Emmi)
Weight Loss - Bariatric Surgery	What to expect before, during and after weight loss surgery that reduces the size of the stomach. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Sleeve Gastrectomy (Emmi)
Women's Health	What to expect before, during and after this surgery to correct bladder prolapse in women. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Cystocele Repair (Emmi)
Women's Health - Abdominal Surgery	What to expect before, during and after surgery to look inside the abdomen. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Laparoscopy (Emmi)
Women's Health - Cervical Biopsy	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (30 minutes) Leep (Emmi)
Women's Health - Cervical Exam	What to expect before, during and after this procedure to examine the cervix. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (15 minutes) Colposcopy (Emmi)
Women's Health - Hysterectomy	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove the uterus through an abdominal cut. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (20 minutes) Abdominal Hysterectomy (Emmi)
Women's Health - Hysterectomy	Covers what to expect after a hysterectomy, including preparing for recovery and medical changes after the procedure. Also addresses common questions. (20 minutes) Hysterectomy Recovery (Emmi)
Women's Health - Hysterectomy	Step-by-step overview of estrogen therapy after a hysterectomy. Covers what estrogen can do for you, how hormones affect your body, and alternatives. (15 minutes) Hysterectomy Recovery Estrogen Therapy (Emmi)
Women's Health - Hysterectomy	What to expect before, during and after surgery to remove the uterus through the vagina. Covers risks and benefits, and tips on recovery. (25 minutes) Vaginal Hysterectomy (Emmi)

My Doctor Online The Permanente Medical Group

Brigid McCaw, MD

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Personal Logs and Diaries

Topic	Tools
Asthma	Keep track of your symptoms and medication usage with this diary. Asthma Self-Management Plan for Adults
Diabetes	Use this log to keep track of your blood sugar. (1 page) Diabetes Blood Sugar Log
Diabetes - Espanol	Use this log to keep track of your blood sugar. (1 page) Diabetes Blood Sugar Log (Spanish)
Headaches	Keeping a headache diary can help you and your physician understand your personal triggers. This headache diary will help you track your personal headache patterns. Headache Diary
Women's Health	Keeping track of when you urinate, have a leaking accident, and how much you drink can help you improve your bladder control. (1 page) Urinary Diary