Dr. Rani G. Whitfield, a Board Certified Family Physician with a Certificate of added qualification (CAQ) in Sports medicine, is currently in private practice in his native Baton Rouge, LA. Dr. Whitfield attended University High School in Baton Rouge, and then earned his undergraduate degree from Southern University and A&M College also in Baton Rouge. He completed medical school training at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN, completed his residency in Family Medicine at Franciscan Medical Center in Dayton, OH.
He went on to earn his Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine from Ohio State University. Dr. Whitfield is an impassioned advocate for increasing the awareness of health-related issues, such as HIV/AIDS, obesity, cardiovascular disease and substance abuse affecting today’s youth, young adults, and the elderly.
Dr. Whitfield is very active in his local community and the surrounding areas and currently serves on the Southern University systems Board of Supervisors (2015- present), City Year Advisory Board (2016- present), and the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging (2016- present). He is also a member of Mayor President Elect Sharon West Broome’s Healthcare, Social Services, and Mental Health transition team. Currently Dr. Whitfield is working with award-winning filmmaker Keith Beauchamp on The Day After: The Alton Sterling Story.
IDr. Whitfield is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. In his leisure time he plays bass guitar and sings/raps with his band U4ria, exercises regularly, loves to cook, eat, and ride his Slingshot- a really cool motorcycle and gift from his wife. As a result of his social media posts, Dr. Whitfield was selected as an ambassador for the clothing company TASC, representing them across the country as he competes in various events, including 5k races.
Benefits of Playing Basketball
Basketball is a much-loved sport all across the world. It can be played as a competitive sport or a casual game on the local court. It is also a great way to work out as it involves using your entire body. This fast-paced game involves jumping and running, which is a fantastic way to exercise. If you want a sport that helps you stay fit and healthy, basketball is the perfect choice as it comes with more than a few health benefits. Some of the benefits of basketball include:
- Promotes Cardiovascular Health
- Burns Calories
- Builds Bone Strength
- Boost the Immune System
- Provides Strength Training
- Boost Mental Development
- Develops Better Coordination and Movement
- Develops Self-Discipline and Concentration
- Improves Awareness of Space and Body
- Boost Confidence
Dr. Rani answers your questions below:
I had an anterior posterior lumbar decompression L4-L5-S1 on 12/7/16. I finished physical therapy February 28th. So what exercises can I do now to build up endurance?
I would first start off with walking and stretching of the hamstrings (back of legs) and quads (front of legs). The stationary bike is also safe. Strengthening your core muscles is essential and include more than just the abs. A specific exercise program based on your surgery and recovery should be given to you by your physical therapist.
I’ve been considering having the sleeve weight loss surgery. Is there any info or advice you could give me?
I would firstly make sure that you’ve done everything possible to lose weight on your own – diet, exercise, portion control, proper sleep etc… If weight loss surgery (i.e. bariatric sugery) is your last option, sleeve surgeries are effective. However, there are other types of procedures and a thorough discussion with your provider is recommended before proceeding.
PHOTO: Courtesy
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