UNT Health physician Janice Knebl, DO, keeps legendary cowboy in the saddle

November 20, 2013
Patient Care

For more than seven decades, J.W. Stoker, 86, was a cowboy’s cowboy, a rodeo legend who began trick roping and riding at 12 and is a member of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Hall of Fame and the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame.

But when his advancing years threatened to rob him of the work he loved most, Janice Knebl, DO, a geriatrics expert at UNT Health Science Center, used a multi-disciplinary approach to help the colorful Stoker stay in – or at least near – the saddle.

Two of Stoker’s main health concerns included cardiovascular issues and a pinched nerve in his back. Dr. Knebl, working closely with other specialists, is helping Stoker stay active by ensuring blood pressure medications are administered correctly and by improving his diet for overall heart health.

“She takes care of business,” said Stoker of Dr. Knebl. “She pays close attention and is genuinely interested in all her patients. She is full of life.”

For the past few years, he’s trained The All American Cowgirl Chicks, a group of women who travel around the world entertaining crowds with their fast-paced drills and daring trick riding. He travels with them to the Rose Bowl every year, rides a horse during the half-time show and credits Dr. Knebl for his energy and overall good health.

Said Dr. Knebl, “Last December, my husband and I attended the Rose Bowl and we saw J.W. during the halftime show. It made me excited seeing him out there riding on his horse looking so happy. My goal with every patient is to help them lead a healthier life so they can continue doing the activities they love.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Knebl, or any of our geriatric providers, contact 817-735-DOCS (3627).

Health tips for older adults

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do for their health, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. It can prevent many of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps muscles grow stronger so people like J.W. Stoker can keep doing their day-to-day activities.

If you’re 65 years of age or older, are generally fit, and have no limiting health conditions, follow these guidelines:

150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., brisk walking) every week and

muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms).

or

75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., jogging or running) every week and

muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms).

or

An equivalent mix of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity and

muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms).

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