Pain seminar set on Sanibel

Simontacchi Many people suffer from chronic pain and inflammation. The classic signs of inflammation (pain, redness, swelling, and heat) can signal a localized inflammation, but inflammation can settle into major organs and systems, setting us up for a myriad of health conditions.

But what about when your knee hurts? What about fibromyalgia (muscle pain) or other conditions of chronic pain? Does diet play a role in either ramping up the pain measures or in dampening down your body's inflammatory response?

Carol Simontacchi of the Island Nutrition Center will host a no-charge seminar and discussion group called "Ouch! That Hurts!" The event will be held at the Island Nutrition Center, 1633 Periwinkle Way, on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m..

Discussion topics will include a brief overview of the body's life-saving inflammatory response, factors that increase inflammation and factors that decrease inflammation, how systemic pH affects inflammation and how to bring your body back into a more alkaline (healthy) pH balance.

Space is limited; reservations are required. Reserve a seat by calling the Island Nutrition Center at 472-4499.