By Stacy Lyons

According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 70 percent of adults in America are categorically overweight or obese.

Obesity is a medical condition that if left unchecked can have serious consequences. Interestingly, when asked to categorize themselves, only about 20 percent of Americans accurately identify where they fall in the weight spectrum. This equates to roughly four out of every five people with serious weight issues who are unable, or possibly unwilling, to identify that they have a serious medical condition.

The most common way in which obesity is categorized is through the use of the Body Mass Index. This calculation utilizes weight and height to determine a measurable number that is evaluated against a set scale. It is widely recognized that a BMI greater than 25 would fall into the category of overweight while a BMI greater than 30 would fall into the category of obese. What’s your BMI? It is calculated from a person’s weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

To calculate your BMI, go to the CDC’s website and use its calculator at http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/.

If the numbers point to being overweight or obese, find a qualified medical professional to assist in determining how to properly treat this condition.  There’s no better to get started than now!

Stacy Lyons owns Pinnacle Physical Therapy. She opened the first Pinnacle location in Maple Valley in 2004.  Since that time, she has opened 3 additional clinics in the Covington, Maple Valley and Enumclaw areas.  Staci graduated from the University of Washington physical therapy program in 1999.