Haywood Regional Medical Center to Host Free Lunch & Learn on Staying Active at Every Age

Staying active is one of the best ways to support long-term health, independence and quality of life. Whether it's hiking local trails, tending a garden, enjoying a pickleball match or participating in organized sports, movement plays an important role in keeping people healthy throughout every stage of life.

To help community members learn how to stay active and protect their mobility, Haywood Regional Medical Center will host a free Lunch & Learn, Keeping Life in Motion: Sports Medicine for Athletes of All Ages, on Thursday, July 23, from noon to 1 p.m. at Haywood Community College's Juniper Building, Room 6105, located at 125 Sawmill Drive in Clyde.

The program will be presented by Samantha Levin, MD, orthopaedic surgeon with Western Carolina Orthopaedic Specialists. During the presentation, Dr. Levin will discuss joint health, common injuries, injury prevention and practical ways to stay active throughout life.

While sports medicine is often associated with competitive athletics, its principles extend far beyond the playing field. Many of the same approaches used to prevent and treat sports injuries can help people stay active during everyday activities, recreational hobbies and healthy aging.

"Maintaining mobility is important for people of all ages," said Sue Shugart, CEO of Haywood Regional Medical Center. "Whether someone enjoys sports, outdoor recreation or simply wants to remain active and independent, understanding how to prevent injuries and protect joint health can make a significant difference. We're pleased to offer this opportunity for our community to learn from Dr. Levin's expertise."

The presentation will also cover common causes of joint pain, ways to reduce injury risk during physical activity and when an evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist may be beneficial.

Lunch & Learns are part of Haywood Regional Medical Center's ongoing commitment to providing accessible health education and resources that help make the community healthier.

The event is free and open to the public. Community members interested in attending can register by contacting Lilly Ferguson at 828-508-0109 or lillian.ferguson@lifepointhealth.net.