Physical Therapy
Exercising Without Injuries
07/07/11 09:32
The intensity at which you exercise will determine what you get out of it. Do you want to lose body fat? If so, you need to exercise at a different intensity compared to someone who trains to build muscle / tone up.
Unlike bones and joints, muscles have a greater blood supply. Muscles can regenerate and respond quickly to the demands of exercise. The goal of all your exercise-related efforts should be to strengthen muscles (expect occasional soreness) and avoid overload of the bones and joints (likely to cause pain and injuries). Typically, exercising with weights can cause soreness, which is a dull aching pain in the muscles. This soreness generally subsides in a 2-3 days, during which your muscles get a chance to rest and emerge stronger. On the other hand, aerobic exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming typically do not cause muscle soreness. They serve a different purpose, and are invaluable in conditioning your heart and lungs.
The Difference Between Soreness And Pain
Soreness usually occurs the day after exercise due to an overload of exertion on your muscles, and the release of stored chemicals from your muscles. This is the reason why soreness sometimes gets worse a day or two after exercise. This is a phenomenon called “Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness” (DOMS). It is more likely to occur if you try new exercises or exert yourself more than you should. You will feel mild discomfort and not necessarily pain which should subside with rest. It’s important to remember that if you do the same exercise over a period of time, the level of soreness will decrease as your body adapts to it. This is why we change your exercise routine every 3 to 4 weeks to help you gain maximum benefit at all times. On the other hand, pain after exercise tends to be sharp and localized around one area. It also tends to persist and sometimes get worse. You should never exercise ‘through the pain’ since this may cause injuries. If you experience pain during exercise, give us a call right away so we can determine the cause of your pain and help you manage it.
Your Pain Prevention Plan
Improper technique, absence of warm ups / stretching and inadequate footwear are major causes of pain and consequently injury. When you feel pain, use the RICE method.
RICE is an acronym for:
Rest: Avoid anything that may cause an increase in pain. Ice: Use an ice pack to reduce swelling and pain. Do not use the ice pack for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. Compression: A handkerchief or bandage around the injured area helps minimize swelling. It should be firm, but not too tight. Elevation: Keeping the injured body part elevated also helps to minimize swelling. WARNING SIGNS: Seek immediate diagnosis from a physician if the pain: - Persists after 12 to 48 hours of ice and rest. - Is sharp and limits movement. - Is accompanied by numbness, weakness, or swelling in the joint. Pain indicates distress to the body - listen to it and take action. A timely trip to your doctor and/or physical therapist will facilitate recovery. Don’t let aches and pains affect your gains. Call us today to see how we can help you with a speedy recovery.
Unlike bones and joints, muscles have a greater blood supply. Muscles can regenerate and respond quickly to the demands of exercise. The goal of all your exercise-related efforts should be to strengthen muscles (expect occasional soreness) and avoid overload of the bones and joints (likely to cause pain and injuries). Typically, exercising with weights can cause soreness, which is a dull aching pain in the muscles. This soreness generally subsides in a 2-3 days, during which your muscles get a chance to rest and emerge stronger. On the other hand, aerobic exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming typically do not cause muscle soreness. They serve a different purpose, and are invaluable in conditioning your heart and lungs.
The Difference Between Soreness And Pain
Soreness usually occurs the day after exercise due to an overload of exertion on your muscles, and the release of stored chemicals from your muscles. This is the reason why soreness sometimes gets worse a day or two after exercise. This is a phenomenon called “Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness” (DOMS). It is more likely to occur if you try new exercises or exert yourself more than you should. You will feel mild discomfort and not necessarily pain which should subside with rest. It’s important to remember that if you do the same exercise over a period of time, the level of soreness will decrease as your body adapts to it. This is why we change your exercise routine every 3 to 4 weeks to help you gain maximum benefit at all times. On the other hand, pain after exercise tends to be sharp and localized around one area. It also tends to persist and sometimes get worse. You should never exercise ‘through the pain’ since this may cause injuries. If you experience pain during exercise, give us a call right away so we can determine the cause of your pain and help you manage it.
Your Pain Prevention Plan
Improper technique, absence of warm ups / stretching and inadequate footwear are major causes of pain and consequently injury. When you feel pain, use the RICE method.
RICE is an acronym for:
Rest: Avoid anything that may cause an increase in pain. Ice: Use an ice pack to reduce swelling and pain. Do not use the ice pack for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. Compression: A handkerchief or bandage around the injured area helps minimize swelling. It should be firm, but not too tight. Elevation: Keeping the injured body part elevated also helps to minimize swelling. WARNING SIGNS: Seek immediate diagnosis from a physician if the pain: - Persists after 12 to 48 hours of ice and rest. - Is sharp and limits movement. - Is accompanied by numbness, weakness, or swelling in the joint. Pain indicates distress to the body - listen to it and take action. A timely trip to your doctor and/or physical therapist will facilitate recovery. Don’t let aches and pains affect your gains. Call us today to see how we can help you with a speedy recovery.
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Did You Know Smoking Is Bad For Your Bones?
21/05/11 08:36
According to the most recent statistics from American Lung Association and the Center for Disease Control (CDC), over 430,000 people die each year as a result of smoking-related diseases. According to the American Lung Association, cigarette smoking leads to 87% of lung cancers, emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Smoking is known to cause:
• Heart disease
• Lung cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Chronic lung disease
But there is one more thing: smoking is also bad for your bones!
Bones, like other tissues and organs of your body, get their nutrition from good blood flow. Normally, when a bone is injured (i.e. fractured), blood flow brings in the desperately needed nutrients to help heal the bone. Smokers tend to have an elevated level of nicotine in their blood, which constricts blood vessels. This leads to decreased blood flow, resulting in impaired delivery of oxygen and other nutrients.
Thus, when the bone of a smoker is injured, healing is compromised.
With the impaired nutrition to the bones, bone density becomes affected and this can also lead to osteoporosis.
Low Back Pain and Smoking
If you are a smoker and suffer from low back pain, you are not alone. The idea that smoking may be linked with low back pain has been around for quite some time. The key culprit here is nicotine, which limits blood flow throughout the body, including the spine. Chronic oxygen deprivation causes the discs to weaken. The result is malnourished and degenerated discs, which lead to pain. As a chronic smoker, the more you cough, the more you irritate the discs, which results in more low back pain.
If you are considering a fusion surgery, your doctor will ask you if you smoke. This is important because nicotine damages the “bone building cells”. In extreme cases, a surgeon may refuse to operate if the patient is a chronic smoker, since smoking slows down healing after spinal surgery.
Smoking is known to cause:
• Heart disease
• Lung cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Chronic lung disease
But there is one more thing: smoking is also bad for your bones!
Bones, like other tissues and organs of your body, get their nutrition from good blood flow. Normally, when a bone is injured (i.e. fractured), blood flow brings in the desperately needed nutrients to help heal the bone. Smokers tend to have an elevated level of nicotine in their blood, which constricts blood vessels. This leads to decreased blood flow, resulting in impaired delivery of oxygen and other nutrients.
Thus, when the bone of a smoker is injured, healing is compromised.
With the impaired nutrition to the bones, bone density becomes affected and this can also lead to osteoporosis.
Low Back Pain and Smoking
If you are a smoker and suffer from low back pain, you are not alone. The idea that smoking may be linked with low back pain has been around for quite some time. The key culprit here is nicotine, which limits blood flow throughout the body, including the spine. Chronic oxygen deprivation causes the discs to weaken. The result is malnourished and degenerated discs, which lead to pain. As a chronic smoker, the more you cough, the more you irritate the discs, which results in more low back pain.
If you are considering a fusion surgery, your doctor will ask you if you smoke. This is important because nicotine damages the “bone building cells”. In extreme cases, a surgeon may refuse to operate if the patient is a chronic smoker, since smoking slows down healing after spinal surgery.
The Truth About Exercise After Surgery
07/05/11 18:17
A physical therapist plays an important role in the recovery process following most injuries. With mother’s day round the corner, it’s important to remember that women in particular experience a higher risk from bone-related injuries after menopause. In this newsletter, we try to dispel some of the most commonly-held myths about post injury exercise regimes, so that the mothers (and everyone else) in your family are aware of the do’s and don’ts of post injury exercise.
Myth #1: After an injury, “Bed rest is the best”. Fact: A short period of bed rest (1 to 2 days) can help prevent further injury during the acute phase, but longer rest intervals can be counterproductive. In fact, resting and inactivity can actually cause more pain since a lack of activity leads to reduced blood flow and even muscle weakness. This, in turn, creates more pain and triggers an unhealthy cycle of pain and inactivity that feed each other and aggravate the situation. Always start with low intensity exercises (your physical therapist will point you in the right direction) and ease into an exercise regime that progressively strengthens your muscles and improves flexibility of your joints.
Myth #2: Going to the gym is the best way to regain your strength. Fact: It’s common for people to reinjure themselves if they return to the gym or engage in ‘unsupervised exercise’ too soon after an injury. Trust the expertise of the physical therapist and complete an exercise protocol before progressing to independent, unsupervised exercise.
Myth #3: With any exercise, if there is no pain, there is no gain. Fact: When you first start an exercise plan, you’ll be using your muscles in new ways that may cause soreness the next day, but anything more than a little discomfort isn’t healthy. Contrary to popular belief, exercise doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something’s wrong – if you want to avoid serious injury, listen to your body and back off at the first sign of pain.
Myth #4: Focusing on specific muscles (abs, arms, thighs) is the best way to recover after an injury. Fact: The energy expenditure (amount of calories burnt) increases as you involve more muscle groups and increase the intensity of exercise. As healing continues, your physical therapist may recommend exercises like walking which involve several large muscle groups as opposed to single muscle group movements.
Aquatic Exercise
Exercise done in water (swimming pools) is effective for injury recovery in all age groups. The buoyant forces of water provide a calming, cushioning effect, which protects (and challenges) your muscles, joints and bones. Water is several times denser than air and facilitates high energy expenditure with minimal risk of injury. Water exercise has several benefits and also provides a safe medium for strengthening your muscles post injury.
Myth #1: After an injury, “Bed rest is the best”. Fact: A short period of bed rest (1 to 2 days) can help prevent further injury during the acute phase, but longer rest intervals can be counterproductive. In fact, resting and inactivity can actually cause more pain since a lack of activity leads to reduced blood flow and even muscle weakness. This, in turn, creates more pain and triggers an unhealthy cycle of pain and inactivity that feed each other and aggravate the situation. Always start with low intensity exercises (your physical therapist will point you in the right direction) and ease into an exercise regime that progressively strengthens your muscles and improves flexibility of your joints.
Myth #2: Going to the gym is the best way to regain your strength. Fact: It’s common for people to reinjure themselves if they return to the gym or engage in ‘unsupervised exercise’ too soon after an injury. Trust the expertise of the physical therapist and complete an exercise protocol before progressing to independent, unsupervised exercise.
Myth #3: With any exercise, if there is no pain, there is no gain. Fact: When you first start an exercise plan, you’ll be using your muscles in new ways that may cause soreness the next day, but anything more than a little discomfort isn’t healthy. Contrary to popular belief, exercise doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something’s wrong – if you want to avoid serious injury, listen to your body and back off at the first sign of pain.
Myth #4: Focusing on specific muscles (abs, arms, thighs) is the best way to recover after an injury. Fact: The energy expenditure (amount of calories burnt) increases as you involve more muscle groups and increase the intensity of exercise. As healing continues, your physical therapist may recommend exercises like walking which involve several large muscle groups as opposed to single muscle group movements.
Aquatic Exercise
Exercise done in water (swimming pools) is effective for injury recovery in all age groups. The buoyant forces of water provide a calming, cushioning effect, which protects (and challenges) your muscles, joints and bones. Water is several times denser than air and facilitates high energy expenditure with minimal risk of injury. Water exercise has several benefits and also provides a safe medium for strengthening your muscles post injury.
How Can a Chair Save Your Spine?
01/05/11 09:47
In a 21st century office, work typically involves a lot of sitting in an office chair (usually in front of a computer).
Did you know that sitting actually puts more stress on your spine than standing? To avoid developing lower back problems, it's critical to use an office chair that's ergonomically designed. What does ergonomics mean? It is the applied science of equipment design (in the workplace) intended to maximize productivity by reducing an individual's fatigue and discomfort. An ergonomic chair, for example, is one that supports your lower back and helps maintain good posture.
The big question is - How do we identify the ideal ergonomic office chair?
All ergonomic chairs are not built the same. Since every individual is built differently, it is best to look for a chair that can be easily adjusted in terms of chair height, armrest height and back inclination. There are many types of office chairs and no single chair is the best, but a few simple tips can save your joints a lot of discomfort. You are about to avoid the biggest mistakes most individuals make with chair selection.
If you have any doubts, always speak with your physical therapist to help you find the right chair for your specific needs.
Five key factors to consider while choosing an ergonomic chair:
• Seat height. This should be adjustable. Depending on your height, this should be between 16 to 21 inches from the floor. When sitting, your feet should be flat on the floor and your thighs horizontal (or parallel) to the floor.
• Seat width and depth. Standard seat width is 17-20 inches. The depth (from the front to the back of the seat) needs to be enough so that you can sit with your back against the backrest with about 2-4 inches between the back of the knees and the seat of the chair. The forward or backward tilt of the seat should be adjustable because the right inclination can significantly reduce the strain on your lower back (call us to learn more)
• Backrest. The ideal backrest should be 12 to 19 inches wide. It should be able to support the natural curve of the spine. The more we sit, the more we tend to slouch. Therefore, proper lumbar support provided by your chair’s backrest is very important to help support your spine.
• Armrests. Office chair armrests should be adjustable. They should allow your arms to rest comfortably and shoulders to be relaxed. The elbows and lower arms should rest lightly, which means the armrests should neither be too high nor too low.
• Swivel. This allows you to easily rotate to reach different areas of your desk without straining your spine.
Picking the right office chair can help you avoid the agony of low back pain or neck pain associated with full-time desk jobs. Too much time at the computer or several hours a day on the phone can also put your spine at risk. To learn more about ergonomics and correct body mechanics, give us a call right away.
Did you know that sitting actually puts more stress on your spine than standing? To avoid developing lower back problems, it's critical to use an office chair that's ergonomically designed. What does ergonomics mean? It is the applied science of equipment design (in the workplace) intended to maximize productivity by reducing an individual's fatigue and discomfort. An ergonomic chair, for example, is one that supports your lower back and helps maintain good posture.
The big question is - How do we identify the ideal ergonomic office chair?
All ergonomic chairs are not built the same. Since every individual is built differently, it is best to look for a chair that can be easily adjusted in terms of chair height, armrest height and back inclination. There are many types of office chairs and no single chair is the best, but a few simple tips can save your joints a lot of discomfort. You are about to avoid the biggest mistakes most individuals make with chair selection.
If you have any doubts, always speak with your physical therapist to help you find the right chair for your specific needs.
Five key factors to consider while choosing an ergonomic chair:
• Seat height. This should be adjustable. Depending on your height, this should be between 16 to 21 inches from the floor. When sitting, your feet should be flat on the floor and your thighs horizontal (or parallel) to the floor.
• Seat width and depth. Standard seat width is 17-20 inches. The depth (from the front to the back of the seat) needs to be enough so that you can sit with your back against the backrest with about 2-4 inches between the back of the knees and the seat of the chair. The forward or backward tilt of the seat should be adjustable because the right inclination can significantly reduce the strain on your lower back (call us to learn more)
• Backrest. The ideal backrest should be 12 to 19 inches wide. It should be able to support the natural curve of the spine. The more we sit, the more we tend to slouch. Therefore, proper lumbar support provided by your chair’s backrest is very important to help support your spine.
• Armrests. Office chair armrests should be adjustable. They should allow your arms to rest comfortably and shoulders to be relaxed. The elbows and lower arms should rest lightly, which means the armrests should neither be too high nor too low.
• Swivel. This allows you to easily rotate to reach different areas of your desk without straining your spine.
Picking the right office chair can help you avoid the agony of low back pain or neck pain associated with full-time desk jobs. Too much time at the computer or several hours a day on the phone can also put your spine at risk. To learn more about ergonomics and correct body mechanics, give us a call right away.
If Your First Steps Are Painful...
24/04/11 14:15
Pain in the heel can occur due to bone spurs, inflammation of the plantar fascia (known as plantar fasciitis) or impingement of the small nerves in the foot.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain on or around the heel when weight is placed on the foot. This is usually worst in the morning, especially with the first few steps after getting out of bed. In most cases, there is no pain at night since the fascia tightens up overnight. Morning motion causes pulling of the fascia and results in pain that can be described as sharp, burning or stabbing. Pain usually reduces during the course of the day as the tissue warms up. Prolonged standing, walking or getting up after long periods of sitting usually irritate the fascia.
Common causes of heel pain include:
• Excessive running or jumping
• Overload of physical activity (especially for athletes)
• High arches, flat feet, abnormal gait
• Wearing improper shoes while walking or running
• Diabetes contributes to heel pain in the elderly
• Recent weight gain or pregnancy
In most cases, plantar fasciitis does not require surgery and can be treated conservatively. However, every individual heals at a different pace.
If you suffer from heel pain, the first thing you need to do is determine the cause. For example, you may need to replace your old, worn out shoes. You may need to rest if there has been a significant increase in your activity levels.
The next thing to do is to call your physical therapist. You may even need to see a doctor or podiatrist. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to help you reduce pain and inflammation and resume daily activities without pain. In some cases, your doctor may give you a cortisone shot to address excessive inflammation.
Most people with heel pain get better with physical therapy. Therapy usually includes stretching the calf muscles (on the back of the lower leg) to take the tension off the plantar fascia. If your calf is really tight, the doctor may order a night splint (to be worn while you sleep at night). This will place a mild stretch on the calf muscles and the plantar fascia.
This helps reduce morning pain.
Patients with plantar fasciitis are commonly prescribed physical therapy. Our therapists design exercises to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and the plantar fascia. Treatment helps control pain and swelling. We may use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ice packs and soft-tissue massage to help you recover as fast as possible. We may even recommend the use of an orthotic depending on the anatomy of your foot.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain on or around the heel when weight is placed on the foot. This is usually worst in the morning, especially with the first few steps after getting out of bed. In most cases, there is no pain at night since the fascia tightens up overnight. Morning motion causes pulling of the fascia and results in pain that can be described as sharp, burning or stabbing. Pain usually reduces during the course of the day as the tissue warms up. Prolonged standing, walking or getting up after long periods of sitting usually irritate the fascia.
Common causes of heel pain include:
• Excessive running or jumping
• Overload of physical activity (especially for athletes)
• High arches, flat feet, abnormal gait
• Wearing improper shoes while walking or running
• Diabetes contributes to heel pain in the elderly
• Recent weight gain or pregnancy
In most cases, plantar fasciitis does not require surgery and can be treated conservatively. However, every individual heals at a different pace.
If you suffer from heel pain, the first thing you need to do is determine the cause. For example, you may need to replace your old, worn out shoes. You may need to rest if there has been a significant increase in your activity levels.
The next thing to do is to call your physical therapist. You may even need to see a doctor or podiatrist. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to help you reduce pain and inflammation and resume daily activities without pain. In some cases, your doctor may give you a cortisone shot to address excessive inflammation.
Most people with heel pain get better with physical therapy. Therapy usually includes stretching the calf muscles (on the back of the lower leg) to take the tension off the plantar fascia. If your calf is really tight, the doctor may order a night splint (to be worn while you sleep at night). This will place a mild stretch on the calf muscles and the plantar fascia.
This helps reduce morning pain.
Patients with plantar fasciitis are commonly prescribed physical therapy. Our therapists design exercises to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and the plantar fascia. Treatment helps control pain and swelling. We may use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ice packs and soft-tissue massage to help you recover as fast as possible. We may even recommend the use of an orthotic depending on the anatomy of your foot.
Obesity and the Aging Population: What Are the Dangers and How You Can Get Healthier
16/04/11 10:12
Nearly 70 percent of adults over age 60 are overweight or obese, putting them at higher risk of diabetes and other diseases, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The study followed more than 4,000 men and women for 18 years and found that those who were overweight, measured by a body mass index (BMI) of 25-29, or obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher, were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
"As you age, your body changes," ABC News senior health and medical editor Dr. Richard Besser said this morning on Good Morning America. "Your metabolism slows down."
Type 2 diabetes has doubled in the U.S. in the past 15 years, and is highest among adults over age 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And diabetes is a well known risk factor in heart disease, kidney disease, stroke and other serious medical conditions.
However, keeping a diet rich with greens can prevent excess weight gain, said Besser. “If you don't cut back what you put in your body, you'll gain weight," he said. "It's that simple."
Besides eating well, even light physical activity can significantly contribute to a healthier lifestyle for many elderly adults, according to Besser.
Lower impact activities such as walking, swimming, and bicycling are generally safe for many older adults, even those who have chronic conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure, Besser said on Good Morning America. In fact, many studies show that regular aerobic exercise can lower blood pressure, decrease the symptoms of chronic conditions, and can improve brain function. But the key is to start slowly, he said.
"Just ask your doctor how to do that," he said. Exercise is only good for you if you are feeling well, according to Besser. If you have a cold or the flu, wait to exercise until you feel better.
Warming up and cooling down by walking and stretching before and after each session is important to minimize any soreness or potential injury, he said.
*Original article: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/OnCall/elderly-obesity-older-adults-face-weight-issues/story?id=10985159
The study followed more than 4,000 men and women for 18 years and found that those who were overweight, measured by a body mass index (BMI) of 25-29, or obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher, were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
"As you age, your body changes," ABC News senior health and medical editor Dr. Richard Besser said this morning on Good Morning America. "Your metabolism slows down."
Type 2 diabetes has doubled in the U.S. in the past 15 years, and is highest among adults over age 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And diabetes is a well known risk factor in heart disease, kidney disease, stroke and other serious medical conditions.
However, keeping a diet rich with greens can prevent excess weight gain, said Besser. “If you don't cut back what you put in your body, you'll gain weight," he said. "It's that simple."
Besides eating well, even light physical activity can significantly contribute to a healthier lifestyle for many elderly adults, according to Besser.
Lower impact activities such as walking, swimming, and bicycling are generally safe for many older adults, even those who have chronic conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure, Besser said on Good Morning America. In fact, many studies show that regular aerobic exercise can lower blood pressure, decrease the symptoms of chronic conditions, and can improve brain function. But the key is to start slowly, he said.
"Just ask your doctor how to do that," he said. Exercise is only good for you if you are feeling well, according to Besser. If you have a cold or the flu, wait to exercise until you feel better.
Warming up and cooling down by walking and stretching before and after each session is important to minimize any soreness or potential injury, he said.
*Original article: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/OnCall/elderly-obesity-older-adults-face-weight-issues/story?id=10985159
High Blood Pressure and Seniors
10/04/11 10:00
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, one in four adults, have a continuously elevated pressure of the blood moving through their arteries. For adults aged 70 and older, that number rises dramatically to two out of three. High blood pressure significantly increases your risk for getting heart disease and/or kidney disease, and for having a stroke. While there may be no symptoms, and people affected by high blood pressure may feel fine, some may experience dizziness, palpitations, sweating, and headaches.
Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers — the systolic pressure (as the heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats). The Merck Manual on Medical Information defines high blood pressure as a systolic pressure at rest that averages 140 mm Hg or more, a diastolic pressure at rest that averages 90 mm Hg or more, or both. Usually both the systolic and the diastolic pressures are elevated. However, in the elderly, only the systolic pressure may be elevated, which nevertheless can cause medical problems down the road.
Special Factors for the Elderly:
Many Americans tend to develop high blood pressure as they get older, but this is not a part of healthy aging. About 60% of all Americans age 60 and older have high blood pressure. Only a fraction of those who have high blood pressure actually know it and are actively treating it.
Only a few decades ago, the medical community treated the elderly differently when it came to high blood pressure. Since prescription drug interventions could prove risky, only those seniors with extremely high blood pressure were treated. According to the Society of
Geriatric Cardiology, there are now numerous safe and effective blood pressure medications available. “It has been shown that the majority of older patients adhere and respond to treatment as well as or better than younger patients,” the Society notes.
Since the elderly have fluctuations in their blood pressure throughout the course of the day and may have adverse interactions with other medications, doctors should carefully monitor and adjust a senior’s medication. The Society of Geriatric Cardiology recommends that at least two or three blood pressure readings should be taken at different times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent high blood pressure is by adopting a healthy lifestyle:
◦ Following healthy eating patterns: emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods; eat foods low in saturated fat, total fat,
and cholesterol; eat whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts; reduce fats, red meats, sweets, and sugared beverages. (see The
DASH Diet under “Sources” for more information)
◦ Reducing salt and sodium in your diet: reduce salt intake to less than six grams (one teaspoon) per day from all sources.
◦ Maintaining a healthy weight: since blood pressure rises as weight increases, reducing your weight can improve your
hypertension, as well as reduce your risk for heart disease and diabetes.
◦ Being physically active: even the lowest level of physical activity can have a positive impact on health and well-being.
◦ Limiting alcohol intake: if you drink alcoholic beverages, have only a moderate amount — one drink a day for women; two drinks
a day for men.
◦ Quitting smoking: smoking injures blood vessels and speeds up the hardening of the arteries.
Original article: http://www.ec-online.net/knowledge/articles/bloodpressure.html
Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers — the systolic pressure (as the heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats). The Merck Manual on Medical Information defines high blood pressure as a systolic pressure at rest that averages 140 mm Hg or more, a diastolic pressure at rest that averages 90 mm Hg or more, or both. Usually both the systolic and the diastolic pressures are elevated. However, in the elderly, only the systolic pressure may be elevated, which nevertheless can cause medical problems down the road.
Special Factors for the Elderly:
Many Americans tend to develop high blood pressure as they get older, but this is not a part of healthy aging. About 60% of all Americans age 60 and older have high blood pressure. Only a fraction of those who have high blood pressure actually know it and are actively treating it.
Only a few decades ago, the medical community treated the elderly differently when it came to high blood pressure. Since prescription drug interventions could prove risky, only those seniors with extremely high blood pressure were treated. According to the Society of
Geriatric Cardiology, there are now numerous safe and effective blood pressure medications available. “It has been shown that the majority of older patients adhere and respond to treatment as well as or better than younger patients,” the Society notes.
Since the elderly have fluctuations in their blood pressure throughout the course of the day and may have adverse interactions with other medications, doctors should carefully monitor and adjust a senior’s medication. The Society of Geriatric Cardiology recommends that at least two or three blood pressure readings should be taken at different times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent high blood pressure is by adopting a healthy lifestyle:
◦ Following healthy eating patterns: emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods; eat foods low in saturated fat, total fat,
and cholesterol; eat whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts; reduce fats, red meats, sweets, and sugared beverages. (see The
DASH Diet under “Sources” for more information)
◦ Reducing salt and sodium in your diet: reduce salt intake to less than six grams (one teaspoon) per day from all sources.
◦ Maintaining a healthy weight: since blood pressure rises as weight increases, reducing your weight can improve your
hypertension, as well as reduce your risk for heart disease and diabetes.
◦ Being physically active: even the lowest level of physical activity can have a positive impact on health and well-being.
◦ Limiting alcohol intake: if you drink alcoholic beverages, have only a moderate amount — one drink a day for women; two drinks
a day for men.
◦ Quitting smoking: smoking injures blood vessels and speeds up the hardening of the arteries.
Original article: http://www.ec-online.net/knowledge/articles/bloodpressure.html
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis and Seniors
03/04/11 13:53
The most common indication for surgery in persons aged over 60 in the United States is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). Currently, it is estimated that as many as 400,000 Americans, most over the age of 60, may already be suffering from the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis [The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) and The Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS)] and this number is expected to grow as members of the baby boom generation begin to reach their 60s over the next decade.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, people over 60 will account for 18.7% of the domestic population in 2010 versus 16.6% in 1999.
According to the United Nations' Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the trend is global with the number of persons aged 60 years or older estimated to be nearly 600 million in 1999 and is projected to grow to almost 2 billion by 2050, at which time the population of older persons will be larger than the population of children (0-14 years) for the first time in human history. The majority of the world's older persons reside in Asia (53 per cent), while Europe has the next largest share (25%).
The prevalence of musculo-skeletal disorders and the cost to treat them led the World Health Organization and the United Nations to declare 2000-2010 be the Decade committed to improving quality of life to people with bone and joint disease and injuries throughout the world.
Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis
Physical therapy consisted of exercises, soft tissue manipulation, and other treatment modalities, such as hot and cold packs. The purpose of exercises is to strengthen the abdominal muscles and promote mobility of the lumbar paraspinal muscles, thus minimizing lordosis.
Lordosis can be reduced by up to 7%, which is sufficient to relieve pain. 50 Trunk strengthening exercises were also prescribed to build up the abdominal and lumbar muscles, “thereby creating a corset of muscles to support the lumbar spine” and to build conditioning and increase walking distance.
Exercises that encourage lumbar flexion and flattening of the lumbar lordotic curve can be of a clinical benefit to patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis. An exercise program must be used 4 to 5 times a week to be beneficial, and any early signs of improvement are observed 4 to 6 weeks after the program has begun.
Original article: http://www.spinalstenosis.org/
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, people over 60 will account for 18.7% of the domestic population in 2010 versus 16.6% in 1999.
According to the United Nations' Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the trend is global with the number of persons aged 60 years or older estimated to be nearly 600 million in 1999 and is projected to grow to almost 2 billion by 2050, at which time the population of older persons will be larger than the population of children (0-14 years) for the first time in human history. The majority of the world's older persons reside in Asia (53 per cent), while Europe has the next largest share (25%).
The prevalence of musculo-skeletal disorders and the cost to treat them led the World Health Organization and the United Nations to declare 2000-2010 be the Decade committed to improving quality of life to people with bone and joint disease and injuries throughout the world.
Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis
Physical therapy consisted of exercises, soft tissue manipulation, and other treatment modalities, such as hot and cold packs. The purpose of exercises is to strengthen the abdominal muscles and promote mobility of the lumbar paraspinal muscles, thus minimizing lordosis.
Lordosis can be reduced by up to 7%, which is sufficient to relieve pain. 50 Trunk strengthening exercises were also prescribed to build up the abdominal and lumbar muscles, “thereby creating a corset of muscles to support the lumbar spine” and to build conditioning and increase walking distance.
Exercises that encourage lumbar flexion and flattening of the lumbar lordotic curve can be of a clinical benefit to patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis. An exercise program must be used 4 to 5 times a week to be beneficial, and any early signs of improvement are observed 4 to 6 weeks after the program has begun.
Original article: http://www.spinalstenosis.org/
Glaucoma and Aging
31/03/11 07:36
The leading causes of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration tend to come on silently, without pain or other symptoms in the earliest stages. The later an eye problem is diagnosed, the harder it becomes to treat. In some cases, any vision that has slipped away may be gone forever.
Experts say that skipping regular and thorough eye exams is chief among the barriers to early detection. It's important to have your eyes regularly checked through dilated pupils so doctors can get a good three-dimensional view of the optic nerve and retina. For a dilated exam, an eye specialist places drops in the eye to enlarge the pupils.
If you ignore symptoms of glaucoma and fail to get treatment, the damage can be permanent and blindness is more likely. There are eye drops and medications that can be used to treat mild cases of glaucoma. Lumigan and Travatan are two that treat elevated eye pressure. For people in the more advanced stages of the disease, surgery is a necessary measure that many doctors recommend.
Original article: http://seniorhealth.about.com/library/vision/bl_eye_exam.htm
Experts say that skipping regular and thorough eye exams is chief among the barriers to early detection. It's important to have your eyes regularly checked through dilated pupils so doctors can get a good three-dimensional view of the optic nerve and retina. For a dilated exam, an eye specialist places drops in the eye to enlarge the pupils.
If you ignore symptoms of glaucoma and fail to get treatment, the damage can be permanent and blindness is more likely. There are eye drops and medications that can be used to treat mild cases of glaucoma. Lumigan and Travatan are two that treat elevated eye pressure. For people in the more advanced stages of the disease, surgery is a necessary measure that many doctors recommend.
Original article: http://seniorhealth.about.com/library/vision/bl_eye_exam.htm
Are You Safe? Life Alert For Seniors
28/03/11 08:32
Life Alert is a Personal Emergency Response and Home Medical Alert System company that saves lives from catastrophic outcomes, using a unique technology to provide superior home audio monitoring protection. Founded in 1987, Life Alert provides its service to members nationwide. The company employs over 600 people, all in the United States.
The company’s service solves a major home security issue. Life Alert’s protection helps people to live at home with independence and comfort, living their lives the way they want to, with a feeling of safety and peace of mind.
Life Alert handles over two million calls a year, and on average saves at least one life from a catastrophic outcome every 17 minutes (over 31,000 in 2010). In Life Alert’s Monitoring Center, the size of its emergency staff per member is 200% greater than a traditional security company.
* Go to www.lifealert.com for more information
The company’s service solves a major home security issue. Life Alert’s protection helps people to live at home with independence and comfort, living their lives the way they want to, with a feeling of safety and peace of mind.
Life Alert handles over two million calls a year, and on average saves at least one life from a catastrophic outcome every 17 minutes (over 31,000 in 2010). In Life Alert’s Monitoring Center, the size of its emergency staff per member is 200% greater than a traditional security company.
* Go to www.lifealert.com for more information
Thyroid Disease and Aging
27/03/11 17:50
The incidence of thyroid disease increases with age. An estimated 20% of women over the age of 60 have some form of thyroid disease. The symptoms of thyroid disease vary according to whether too much hormone is being produced (hyperthyroid) or too little (hypothyroid). Hypothyroidism is much more common in the elderly population, and symptoms may be non-specific such as those mentioned above.
Below are some interesting points about thyroid disease and aging as compiled by the American Association of Endocrinologists:
• 1 out of every 5 women over the age of 65 has an higher than normal level of TSH (indicating hypothyroidism.
• Approximately 25% of the elderly population suffer from some form of mental illness. A significant number of these cases may be
related to thyroid disease.
• Approximately 15% of all patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism are over the age of 60.
• Because of many factors, thyroid disease in those over 65 years old is much more likely to remain undiagnosed as compared
with thyroid disease in 30 to 40 year olds.
There are two more points of importance regarding elderly patients and thyroid disease. First, hypothyroidism is a risk factor for high cholesterol and heart disease. Because many elderly people remain undiagnosed for years, it is important to check cholesterol levels in all elderly patients who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The opposite is also true. Elderly patients with persistently increased cholesterol levels should have a thyroid evaluation to make certain that thyroid disease is not contributing to the high cholesterol levels. Second, hyperthyroidism is a cause for osteoporosis, a common cause of weak bones in the elderly.
What can you do to make certain you thyroid level is OK? It's simple. If you are suspicious that you may have thyroid disease, or you have symptoms such as those above that have gone unexplained, ask your physician for a thyroid evaluation. This involves examining the thyroid gland in the neck and a simple blood test to evaluate TSH levels and T4 and T3 levels. Thyroid disease is usually easy to diagnose and treat.
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=17284
Below are some interesting points about thyroid disease and aging as compiled by the American Association of Endocrinologists:
• 1 out of every 5 women over the age of 65 has an higher than normal level of TSH (indicating hypothyroidism.
• Approximately 25% of the elderly population suffer from some form of mental illness. A significant number of these cases may be
related to thyroid disease.
• Approximately 15% of all patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism are over the age of 60.
• Because of many factors, thyroid disease in those over 65 years old is much more likely to remain undiagnosed as compared
with thyroid disease in 30 to 40 year olds.
There are two more points of importance regarding elderly patients and thyroid disease. First, hypothyroidism is a risk factor for high cholesterol and heart disease. Because many elderly people remain undiagnosed for years, it is important to check cholesterol levels in all elderly patients who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The opposite is also true. Elderly patients with persistently increased cholesterol levels should have a thyroid evaluation to make certain that thyroid disease is not contributing to the high cholesterol levels. Second, hyperthyroidism is a cause for osteoporosis, a common cause of weak bones in the elderly.
What can you do to make certain you thyroid level is OK? It's simple. If you are suspicious that you may have thyroid disease, or you have symptoms such as those above that have gone unexplained, ask your physician for a thyroid evaluation. This involves examining the thyroid gland in the neck and a simple blood test to evaluate TSH levels and T4 and T3 levels. Thyroid disease is usually easy to diagnose and treat.
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=17284
Avascular Necrosis and the Elderly
23/03/11 16:48
From the Mayo Clinic:
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Also called osteonecrosis, avascular necrosis can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse.
The blood flow to a section of bone can be interrupted if the bone is fractured or the joint becomes dislocated. Avascular necrosis is also associated with long-term use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol intake.
The most common joint affected by avascular necrosis is the hip. Avascular necrosis worsens with time, so managing it is a lifelong process.
Avascular necrosis typically causes pain and reduced range of motion in the affected joint. The most common joints affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Hip. In addition to pain in the hip joint itself, pain also may radiate into your groin or go down your thigh to your knee.
• Knee. In avascular necrosis of the knee, the pain occurs most often on the inside of the knee and worsens with activity.
• Shoulder. Several bones come together at the shoulder, but the one most commonly affected by avascular necrosis is the upper
arm bone.
Some people experience avascular necrosis bilaterally — for example, in both hips or in both knees. Signs and symptoms may appear suddenly if caused by an injury. In other cases, the pain and stiffness may build up slowly over several months. Some people with avascular necrosis experience no symptoms at all.
Other joints that are affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hands
• Jaw
• Spine
• Wrists
* See your doctor if you experience persistent pain in any joint. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have a broken bone or a dislocated joint.
*Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/avascular-necrosis/DS00650/DSECTION=symptoms
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Also called osteonecrosis, avascular necrosis can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse.
The blood flow to a section of bone can be interrupted if the bone is fractured or the joint becomes dislocated. Avascular necrosis is also associated with long-term use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol intake.
The most common joint affected by avascular necrosis is the hip. Avascular necrosis worsens with time, so managing it is a lifelong process.
Avascular necrosis typically causes pain and reduced range of motion in the affected joint. The most common joints affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Hip. In addition to pain in the hip joint itself, pain also may radiate into your groin or go down your thigh to your knee.
• Knee. In avascular necrosis of the knee, the pain occurs most often on the inside of the knee and worsens with activity.
• Shoulder. Several bones come together at the shoulder, but the one most commonly affected by avascular necrosis is the upper
arm bone.
Some people experience avascular necrosis bilaterally — for example, in both hips or in both knees. Signs and symptoms may appear suddenly if caused by an injury. In other cases, the pain and stiffness may build up slowly over several months. Some people with avascular necrosis experience no symptoms at all.
Other joints that are affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hands
• Jaw
• Spine
• Wrists
* See your doctor if you experience persistent pain in any joint. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have a broken bone or a dislocated joint.
*Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/avascular-necrosis/DS00650/DSECTION=symptoms
If Your World is Spinning...
21/03/11 09:39
Almost everyone experiences a few seconds of dizziness at some point in their lives. Do you remember your childhood days when you would spin round and round until you got dizzy and had to wait a few seconds till the “world stopped spinning”? It was fun back then, but when it occurs “out of the blue”, it’s something to be concerned about.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 90 million Americans (more than a third of the population) report bouts of dizziness at some point in their lives. Of those, 76 million suffer from inner-ear disorders, which can be caused by:
1. Whiplash (neck injuries)
2. Blows to the head
3. Viral infections
4. High doses of certain antibiotics
5. Stroke
6. Degeneration of the inner ear's balance function, also known as the vestibular system (often deteriorates with age).
Inner-ear problems can manifest themselves in different ways. Some symptoms include dizziness, nausea and blurred vision. It’s not uncommon for individuals with dizziness to go from one doctor to another in an attempt to find a solution.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 90 million Americans (more than a third of the population) report bouts of dizziness at some point in their lives. Of those, 76 million suffer from inner-ear disorders, which can be caused by:
1. Whiplash (neck injuries)
2. Blows to the head
3. Viral infections
4. High doses of certain antibiotics
5. Stroke
6. Degeneration of the inner ear's balance function, also known as the vestibular system (often deteriorates with age).
Inner-ear problems can manifest themselves in different ways. Some symptoms include dizziness, nausea and blurred vision. It’s not uncommon for individuals with dizziness to go from one doctor to another in an attempt to find a solution.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Seniors
21/03/11 09:27
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease of the lungs. A person with COPD has trouble breathing. This is because the airways – the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs – are damaged.
COPD may also be called by other names, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. COPD is a serious lung disease that develops slowly. It may be many years before a person starts to have symptoms of COPD. It can be caused by smoking, air pollution, and genetic factors.
COPD can be treated many ways depending on the severity of the disease. Medication and oxygen machines help ease symptoms but the best way to avoid developing COPD is to stay away from cigarette smoke and do not begin smoking.
Information obtained from: http://www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/chronic/copd/fact_sheet.htm
COPD may also be called by other names, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. COPD is a serious lung disease that develops slowly. It may be many years before a person starts to have symptoms of COPD. It can be caused by smoking, air pollution, and genetic factors.
COPD can be treated many ways depending on the severity of the disease. Medication and oxygen machines help ease symptoms but the best way to avoid developing COPD is to stay away from cigarette smoke and do not begin smoking.
Information obtained from: http://www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/chronic/copd/fact_sheet.htm
Hypertension Study
17/03/11 09:36
Study: Lack of Sleep Not Linked to Hypertension Among Seniors
While sleeping five or fewer hours a night appears to be a significant factor in high blood pressure for people under age 59, short sleep duration does not seem linked to hypertension among people aged 60 and older, according to a study that appears in the journal Hypertension.
In a study of more than 4,800 men and women, aged 32 to 59, who got five hours of sleep a night or less, middle-aged participants were about 60 percent more likely to develop hypertension than those who slept six to eight hours.
But the researchers found no connection between sleep deprivation and hypertension in participants aged 60 to 86. Researchers used data from a large epidemiological study, excluding from the analysis anyone who already had hypertension, and over the next eight to 10 years recorded the incidence of newly diagnosed cases of high blood pressure.
"It's been known for a long time that sleep disorders are associated with hypertension," said James E. Gangwisch, a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health, "but that could be for reasons besides not getting enough sleep. This is the first study that shows a relationship between short sleep duration itself and high blood pressure."
However, while getting too little sleep was bad, getting more than the average amount of sleep was not protective. People who got nine or more hours of sleep were as likely to have high blood pressure as those who slept six to eight hours.
Original article: http://www.seniorhealthweek.org/NewsStories/hypertension-story-n7.htm
Source: Source: Medical Week staff, week of May 10, 2006
While sleeping five or fewer hours a night appears to be a significant factor in high blood pressure for people under age 59, short sleep duration does not seem linked to hypertension among people aged 60 and older, according to a study that appears in the journal Hypertension.
In a study of more than 4,800 men and women, aged 32 to 59, who got five hours of sleep a night or less, middle-aged participants were about 60 percent more likely to develop hypertension than those who slept six to eight hours.
But the researchers found no connection between sleep deprivation and hypertension in participants aged 60 to 86. Researchers used data from a large epidemiological study, excluding from the analysis anyone who already had hypertension, and over the next eight to 10 years recorded the incidence of newly diagnosed cases of high blood pressure.
"It's been known for a long time that sleep disorders are associated with hypertension," said James E. Gangwisch, a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health, "but that could be for reasons besides not getting enough sleep. This is the first study that shows a relationship between short sleep duration itself and high blood pressure."
However, while getting too little sleep was bad, getting more than the average amount of sleep was not protective. People who got nine or more hours of sleep were as likely to have high blood pressure as those who slept six to eight hours.
Original article: http://www.seniorhealthweek.org/NewsStories/hypertension-story-n7.htm
Source: Source: Medical Week staff, week of May 10, 2006
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Alternative Medicine
15/03/11 10:39
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that most typically affects the small joints in your hands and feet. Unlike the wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body's tissues. In addition to causing joint problems, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect your whole body with fevers and fatigue.
Rheumatoid arthritis is two to three times more common in women than in men and generally occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. While there's no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, treatment options have expanded greatly in the past few decades.
Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staff
Some common complementary and alternative treatments that have shown promise for rheumatoid arthritis include:
• Thunder god vine. Preparations made from the peeled root of this plant are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Studies indicate that it may be helpful in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects
include diarrhea, menstrual changes and hair loss.
• Plant oils. The seeds of evening primrose, borage and black currant contain a type of fatty acid that may help with rheumatoid
arthritis pain and morning stiffness. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and gas. Some plant oils can cause liver damage
or interfere with medications, so check with your doctor first.
• Fish oil. Some preliminary studies have found that fish oil supplements may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. Side
effects can include nausea, belching and a fishy taste in the mouth. Fish oil can interfere with medications, so check with your
doctor first.
• Tai chi. This movement therapy involves gentle exercises and stretches combined with deep breathing. Many people use tai chi
to relieve stress in their lives. Small studies have found that tai chi may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain. When led by a
knowledgeable instructor, tai chi is safe. But don't do any moves that cause pain.
Original Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=alternative%2Dmedicine
An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body's tissues. In addition to causing joint problems, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect your whole body with fevers and fatigue.
Rheumatoid arthritis is two to three times more common in women than in men and generally occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. While there's no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, treatment options have expanded greatly in the past few decades.
Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staff
Some common complementary and alternative treatments that have shown promise for rheumatoid arthritis include:
• Thunder god vine. Preparations made from the peeled root of this plant are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Studies indicate that it may be helpful in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects
include diarrhea, menstrual changes and hair loss.
• Plant oils. The seeds of evening primrose, borage and black currant contain a type of fatty acid that may help with rheumatoid
arthritis pain and morning stiffness. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and gas. Some plant oils can cause liver damage
or interfere with medications, so check with your doctor first.
• Fish oil. Some preliminary studies have found that fish oil supplements may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. Side
effects can include nausea, belching and a fishy taste in the mouth. Fish oil can interfere with medications, so check with your
doctor first.
• Tai chi. This movement therapy involves gentle exercises and stretches combined with deep breathing. Many people use tai chi
to relieve stress in their lives. Small studies have found that tai chi may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain. When led by a
knowledgeable instructor, tai chi is safe. But don't do any moves that cause pain.
Original Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=alternative%2Dmedicine
Plantar Fasciitis
12/03/11 14:52
Plantar fasciitis (say "PLAN-ter fash-ee-EYE-tus") is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the flat band of tissue (ligament) that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. If you strain your plantar fascia, it gets weak, swollen, and irritated (inflamed). Then your heel or the bottom of your foot hurts when you stand or walk.
Plantar fasciitis is common in middle-aged people. It also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers. It can happen in one foot or both feet.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if:
• Your feet roll inward too much when you walk (excessive pronation)
• You have high arches or flat feet
• You walk, stand, or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
• You are overweight
• You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out
• You have tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles
What are the symptoms?
Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Your doctor will check your feet and watch you stand and walk. He or she will also ask questions about:
• Your past health, including what illnesses or injuries you have had
• Your symptoms, such as where the pain is and what time of day your foot hurts most
• How active you are and what types of physical activity you do
Your doctor may take an X-ray of your foot if he or she suspects a problem with the bones of your foot, such as a stress fracture
How is it treated?
No single treatment works best for everyone with plantar fasciitis. But there are many things you can try to help your foot get better:
• Give your feet a rest. Cut back on activities that make your foot hurt. Try not to walk or run on hard surfaces
• To reduce pain and swelling, try putting ice on your heel. Or take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin), naproxen (such as Aleve), or aspirin
• Do calf stretches and towel stretches several times a day, especially when you first get up in the morning.
• Get a new pair of shoes. Pick shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole. Or try heel cups or shoe inserts (orthotics).
Use them in both shoes, even if only one foot hurts.
Original article: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-topic-overview
Plantar fasciitis is common in middle-aged people. It also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers. It can happen in one foot or both feet.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if:
• Your feet roll inward too much when you walk (excessive pronation)
• You have high arches or flat feet
• You walk, stand, or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
• You are overweight
• You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out
• You have tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles
What are the symptoms?
Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Your doctor will check your feet and watch you stand and walk. He or she will also ask questions about:
• Your past health, including what illnesses or injuries you have had
• Your symptoms, such as where the pain is and what time of day your foot hurts most
• How active you are and what types of physical activity you do
Your doctor may take an X-ray of your foot if he or she suspects a problem with the bones of your foot, such as a stress fracture
How is it treated?
No single treatment works best for everyone with plantar fasciitis. But there are many things you can try to help your foot get better:
• Give your feet a rest. Cut back on activities that make your foot hurt. Try not to walk or run on hard surfaces
• To reduce pain and swelling, try putting ice on your heel. Or take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin), naproxen (such as Aleve), or aspirin
• Do calf stretches and towel stretches several times a day, especially when you first get up in the morning.
• Get a new pair of shoes. Pick shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole. Or try heel cups or shoe inserts (orthotics).
Use them in both shoes, even if only one foot hurts.
Original article: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-topic-overview
Osteopenia VS. Osteoporosis: What's the Difference?
04/03/11 09:23
What is osteopenia and how is it related to osteoporosis? To begin to answer that question, we must define osteopenia. Osteopenia is the thinning of bone mass. While this decrease in bone mass is not usually considered "severe", it is considered a very serious risk factor for the development of osteoporosis. Osteopenia is commonly seen in people over age 50 that have lower than average bone density but do not have osteoporosis. The diagnostic difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis is the measure of bone mineral density.
Bone mineral density
Bone mineral density (BMD) is the measurement of calcium levels in bones, which can estimate the risk of bone fractures. It is also used to determine if a patient has osteopenia or osteoporosis. Bone mineral density tests are non-invasive and painless procedures usually done on the hip, spine, wrist, finger, shin bone, or heel.
While osteopenia can be diagnosed using plain radiographs, the most common method for measuring BMD (and a way to definitively diagnose osteoporosis) is through Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA. This scan uses low-energy x-rays that expose patients to much less radiation than standard x-rays and can assess calcium levels in bone. The results are measured as a "score" and are compared to those of healthy individuals.
What the numbers mean
A patient's BMD is given a T-score, which is derived by comparing it to an average score for a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex and race. The difference between the "normal young" score and the patient's score is referred to as a standard deviation (SD). T-scores can fall as low as -1 SD and still be considered healthy (see table below). Patients with T-scores between -1 SD and -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteopenia and are considered at high risk for osteoporosis. Patients with T-scores lower than -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteoporosis.
For these patients, treatment is usually necessary and includes the use of medications to help increase bone mass, as well as lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
T-score
2.5 to -1 SD
Normal bone density
Between -1 and -2.5
Osteopenia (low bone density)
Below -2.5
Osteoporosis
Who is at risk?
Not everyone will get osteopenia or osteoporosis. However there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood that a person will have moderate to severe loss of bone mass, including the following:
Gender - women are a higher risk because they have less bone mass than men. Women also often experience a loss of bone
mass after menopause.
Race - Asian and Caucasian women, especially those who are small-boned, are at highest risk.
Family history - patients with a family history of low bone mass have a 50%-85% increased risk of developing osteoporosis.
Age - most people (men and women) lose about .5% of bone mass every year after the age of 50.
Lifestyle choices - including poor diet with a lack of calcium and vitamin D, smoking, excessive use of alcohol or caffeine, and
lack of exercise contribute to a loss of bone mass.
Other medical conditions - such as hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and Cushing's syndrome, can contribute to bone loss.
Certain medications (such as prednisone or phenytoin (Dilantin®
, are known to cause bone loss as well.
Prevention
While most people experience some loss of bone mass as they age, osteopenia and osteoporosis are not inevitable parts of the aging process. There are things that can be done to keep bones healthy, including the following:
1. Maintain a healthy diet with adequate amounts of calcium, magnesium, vitamins D, K, and C as well as other minerals.
2. Regular physical activity that includes weight bearing exercises, such as low-impact aerobics, jogging, and walking to help
minimize bone loss.
3. Avoidance of smoking and excessive use of alcohol.
4. Regular check-ups with a physician to monitor bone loss, especially in people over age 50.
5. Use of medications to help improve bone health if deficiencies in bone mass are detected.
What you can do
Along with eating right and getting regular exercise, talk to your doctor about having your bone mineral density measured, especially if you are over the age of 50 or fall into one of the higher risk groups mentioned above.
Original article: http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/osteoporosis/osteopenia-osteoporosis-there-difference
Bone mineral density
Bone mineral density (BMD) is the measurement of calcium levels in bones, which can estimate the risk of bone fractures. It is also used to determine if a patient has osteopenia or osteoporosis. Bone mineral density tests are non-invasive and painless procedures usually done on the hip, spine, wrist, finger, shin bone, or heel.
While osteopenia can be diagnosed using plain radiographs, the most common method for measuring BMD (and a way to definitively diagnose osteoporosis) is through Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA. This scan uses low-energy x-rays that expose patients to much less radiation than standard x-rays and can assess calcium levels in bone. The results are measured as a "score" and are compared to those of healthy individuals.
What the numbers mean
A patient's BMD is given a T-score, which is derived by comparing it to an average score for a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex and race. The difference between the "normal young" score and the patient's score is referred to as a standard deviation (SD). T-scores can fall as low as -1 SD and still be considered healthy (see table below). Patients with T-scores between -1 SD and -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteopenia and are considered at high risk for osteoporosis. Patients with T-scores lower than -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteoporosis.
For these patients, treatment is usually necessary and includes the use of medications to help increase bone mass, as well as lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
T-score
2.5 to -1 SD
Normal bone density
Between -1 and -2.5
Osteopenia (low bone density)
Below -2.5
Osteoporosis
Who is at risk?
Not everyone will get osteopenia or osteoporosis. However there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood that a person will have moderate to severe loss of bone mass, including the following:
Gender - women are a higher risk because they have less bone mass than men. Women also often experience a loss of bone
mass after menopause.
Race - Asian and Caucasian women, especially those who are small-boned, are at highest risk.
Family history - patients with a family history of low bone mass have a 50%-85% increased risk of developing osteoporosis.
Age - most people (men and women) lose about .5% of bone mass every year after the age of 50.
Lifestyle choices - including poor diet with a lack of calcium and vitamin D, smoking, excessive use of alcohol or caffeine, and
lack of exercise contribute to a loss of bone mass.
Other medical conditions - such as hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and Cushing's syndrome, can contribute to bone loss.
Certain medications (such as prednisone or phenytoin (Dilantin®
, are known to cause bone loss as well.Prevention
While most people experience some loss of bone mass as they age, osteopenia and osteoporosis are not inevitable parts of the aging process. There are things that can be done to keep bones healthy, including the following:
1. Maintain a healthy diet with adequate amounts of calcium, magnesium, vitamins D, K, and C as well as other minerals.
2. Regular physical activity that includes weight bearing exercises, such as low-impact aerobics, jogging, and walking to help
minimize bone loss.
3. Avoidance of smoking and excessive use of alcohol.
4. Regular check-ups with a physician to monitor bone loss, especially in people over age 50.
5. Use of medications to help improve bone health if deficiencies in bone mass are detected.
What you can do
Along with eating right and getting regular exercise, talk to your doctor about having your bone mineral density measured, especially if you are over the age of 50 or fall into one of the higher risk groups mentioned above.
Original article: http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/osteoporosis/osteopenia-osteoporosis-there-difference
Is Fibromyalgia Causing Too Many Aches & Pains?
28/02/11 09:24
Fibromyalgia is a condition in which your body “hurts all over”, leaving you tired and exhausted. It is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, tenderness and stiffness for millions of people across the country.
Fibromyalgia tends to be more common in women, and the exact cause is unknown. It can be difficult to diagnose since there is no specific test for it, but it’s usually detected by performing various tests (including neurological tests) to rule out other diseases. Some symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
• Pain in “tender points” including muscles, tendons, or joints in both sides of the body
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue due to lack of deep sleep
• Mental and/or emotional disturbances
• Headaches, dizziness, tingling, and abdominal pain.
The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day.
Although it’s not a progressive condition, it can lead to other conditions including depression, sleep deprivation, restless leg syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Fibromyalgia tends to be more common in women, and the exact cause is unknown. It can be difficult to diagnose since there is no specific test for it, but it’s usually detected by performing various tests (including neurological tests) to rule out other diseases. Some symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
• Pain in “tender points” including muscles, tendons, or joints in both sides of the body
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue due to lack of deep sleep
• Mental and/or emotional disturbances
• Headaches, dizziness, tingling, and abdominal pain.
The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day.
Although it’s not a progressive condition, it can lead to other conditions including depression, sleep deprivation, restless leg syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Care Connection Inc.
20/02/11 08:41
Care Connection, Inc. provides non-medical companionship and care to seniors. Duties of a companion would include meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, transportation, and medication reminders. Companions provide supervision and socialization to seniors so they can remain safely in their homes.
Our screened companions are both insured and bonded and are available on a hourly, weekly, overnight or on a live-in basis. Care Connection specializes in offering non-medical help with day to day tasks in a sensitive and concerned way. Matching and connecting the right caregiver to you or your family member is what we do best. For more information please call 516-409-0006 or visit our website at www.nycareconnection.com
Our screened companions are both insured and bonded and are available on a hourly, weekly, overnight or on a live-in basis. Care Connection specializes in offering non-medical help with day to day tasks in a sensitive and concerned way. Matching and connecting the right caregiver to you or your family member is what we do best. For more information please call 516-409-0006 or visit our website at www.nycareconnection.com
Key Vitamins For Seniors
17/02/11 08:57
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is often called the "sunlight vitamin" as it's produced by the body when the sun's ultraviolet rays hit the skin. It also has the distinction of being the only vitamin the body actually manufactures. It is also a fat-soluble vitamin essential for good teeth and bone health. It also helps to strengthen the immune system. The elderly don't usually get enough Vitamin D. Seniors between the age of 50 and 70 need 400 IU (international units) of it per day. If you're over 70, 600 IU per day.
Vitamin K
Seniors usually lack Vitamin K. It is essential for blood clotting and helps maintain and even enhance bone density. It plays a key role in preventing osteoporosis. We mentioned before that Alzhemier's disease and Vitamin K studies show have a common link -- Vitamin K levels are lower in carriers of the APOE4 gene, the gene that is a risk factor in Alzheimer's. Though not a antioxidant per se, it does prevent cell death. RDA for Vitamin K is 120 micrograms per day for senior men, 90 micrograms for senior women.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is essential to good senior health. It is a fat soluble vitamin that has potent antioxidant properties thus preventing the oxidation of the fatty acids in the membranes of all cells. It slows aging. (Entertainer Bob Hope gave vitamin E credit for allowing him to live such a long life.) The RDA (Recommended international units (IU) for an adult is 22 IU (or about 15 mgs). There are times when megadoses are given though when digestive mal absorption doesn't occurs. This can range from 100 IU to 200. The dosage prescribed for protection against coronary disease ranges from 400 to 800 IU per day. If you have any questions as to what you need and if you're aren't sure, consult with your doctor. Let's discuss now those Superstar Nutrients.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid benefits include not just antioxidant capability, but it also helps the B vitamins produce more energy from proteins, carbs, and fats. This is one of the unknown yet very capable vitamins for seniors you should know about. Studies also show alpha-lipoic acid supplements help prevent complications from diabetes but it also helps in the treatment of many diversified health issues including, glaucoma, even liver problems cirrhosis -- HIV infection. It helps slow aging-- something of interest to all, including seniors.
Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola is another popular memory enhancer that finds its way in a myriad of memory supplements or memory pills. As with Gingko Biloba, the authors can personally testify as to its efficacy. Due to its capability to enhance memory and as a nerve tonic, among other capabilities, Gotu Kola has been called "food for the brain." Interestingly enough, Gotu Kola is a favorite food among elephants perhaps explaining the saying, "A memory like an elephant."
Gingko Biloba
A Vitamins for Seniors web page wouldn't be complete without mention of Ginkgo Biloba. Gingko Biloba comes from a tree species that is literally one of the oldest trees on earth. This powerful antioxidant helps improve circulation, fights coronary disease, and helps improve and correct brain-centered activity by improving oxygen levels in the brain. It even helps in eliminating impotence and in lessening the effects of Alzheimer's disease. For good effect, take 30 to 60 mg twice a day.
Green Tea Extract
Green Tea possesses powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that studies suggest are even more potent than vitamins C and E to destroy cancer-causing free radicals. This is one of the most potent vitamins for seniors or foods in the world, in our opinion. Among its many therapeutic benefits, Green Tea has also been shown to have very promising results regarding preventing prostate cancer. A study conducted by the respected Mayo Clinic found that "the main polyphenol in Green Tea, which is EGCG, inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and in high concentrations destroys them." Its affects don't apply only to men. In a study reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology July 1996, a study of 35,000 post-menopausal Iowa women showed that those "who drank two or ore cups of tea daily were less likely to develop cancers of the urinary or digestive tract." Look for 25 to 100 mg of green tea extract for best effect.
L-Carnosine
Carnosine is an active antioxidant antiaging substance that is produced by the body by the enzyme carnosine synthetase. It supports cellular rejuvenation by working on both glycosylation and free radical damage. Glycosylation is the oxidation of proteins by glucose (blood sugar) that results in the cross linking of proteins that are in turn implicated in the loss of cell function, genome integrity and aging. Look for a supplement that has 50 to 150 mg of it for optimum effect.
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetylcysteine has shown the ability in clinical studies to actually improve the autoimmune system while simultaneously preventing cellular damage and thus aging. It also is a potent protector to environmental toxins like secondhand cigarette smoke, herbicides, even some chemicals. It is a powerful oxidant when taken at the 35 to 150 mg recommended level.
Resveratrol
Found in red wine and grape juice (among other sources), Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that studies have shown eliminates free radical damage linked to many cancers. It also has robust anti-inflammatory properties. Regarding its anti-cancer capability, it actually combats cancer at all three steps: initiation, promotion, and progression.
Resveratrol also possesses remarkable cholesterol lowering ability. Its antioxidant properties also has the ability to reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol). Lastly, look for a supplement that has 25 to 40 mgs of it for best effect.
Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Key-Vitamins-For-Seniors-You-Need-To-Know-About-Now&id=827022
Vitamin D is often called the "sunlight vitamin" as it's produced by the body when the sun's ultraviolet rays hit the skin. It also has the distinction of being the only vitamin the body actually manufactures. It is also a fat-soluble vitamin essential for good teeth and bone health. It also helps to strengthen the immune system. The elderly don't usually get enough Vitamin D. Seniors between the age of 50 and 70 need 400 IU (international units) of it per day. If you're over 70, 600 IU per day.
Vitamin K
Seniors usually lack Vitamin K. It is essential for blood clotting and helps maintain and even enhance bone density. It plays a key role in preventing osteoporosis. We mentioned before that Alzhemier's disease and Vitamin K studies show have a common link -- Vitamin K levels are lower in carriers of the APOE4 gene, the gene that is a risk factor in Alzheimer's. Though not a antioxidant per se, it does prevent cell death. RDA for Vitamin K is 120 micrograms per day for senior men, 90 micrograms for senior women.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is essential to good senior health. It is a fat soluble vitamin that has potent antioxidant properties thus preventing the oxidation of the fatty acids in the membranes of all cells. It slows aging. (Entertainer Bob Hope gave vitamin E credit for allowing him to live such a long life.) The RDA (Recommended international units (IU) for an adult is 22 IU (or about 15 mgs). There are times when megadoses are given though when digestive mal absorption doesn't occurs. This can range from 100 IU to 200. The dosage prescribed for protection against coronary disease ranges from 400 to 800 IU per day. If you have any questions as to what you need and if you're aren't sure, consult with your doctor. Let's discuss now those Superstar Nutrients.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid benefits include not just antioxidant capability, but it also helps the B vitamins produce more energy from proteins, carbs, and fats. This is one of the unknown yet very capable vitamins for seniors you should know about. Studies also show alpha-lipoic acid supplements help prevent complications from diabetes but it also helps in the treatment of many diversified health issues including, glaucoma, even liver problems cirrhosis -- HIV infection. It helps slow aging-- something of interest to all, including seniors.
Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola is another popular memory enhancer that finds its way in a myriad of memory supplements or memory pills. As with Gingko Biloba, the authors can personally testify as to its efficacy. Due to its capability to enhance memory and as a nerve tonic, among other capabilities, Gotu Kola has been called "food for the brain." Interestingly enough, Gotu Kola is a favorite food among elephants perhaps explaining the saying, "A memory like an elephant."
Gingko Biloba
A Vitamins for Seniors web page wouldn't be complete without mention of Ginkgo Biloba. Gingko Biloba comes from a tree species that is literally one of the oldest trees on earth. This powerful antioxidant helps improve circulation, fights coronary disease, and helps improve and correct brain-centered activity by improving oxygen levels in the brain. It even helps in eliminating impotence and in lessening the effects of Alzheimer's disease. For good effect, take 30 to 60 mg twice a day.
Green Tea Extract
Green Tea possesses powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that studies suggest are even more potent than vitamins C and E to destroy cancer-causing free radicals. This is one of the most potent vitamins for seniors or foods in the world, in our opinion. Among its many therapeutic benefits, Green Tea has also been shown to have very promising results regarding preventing prostate cancer. A study conducted by the respected Mayo Clinic found that "the main polyphenol in Green Tea, which is EGCG, inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and in high concentrations destroys them." Its affects don't apply only to men. In a study reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology July 1996, a study of 35,000 post-menopausal Iowa women showed that those "who drank two or ore cups of tea daily were less likely to develop cancers of the urinary or digestive tract." Look for 25 to 100 mg of green tea extract for best effect.
L-Carnosine
Carnosine is an active antioxidant antiaging substance that is produced by the body by the enzyme carnosine synthetase. It supports cellular rejuvenation by working on both glycosylation and free radical damage. Glycosylation is the oxidation of proteins by glucose (blood sugar) that results in the cross linking of proteins that are in turn implicated in the loss of cell function, genome integrity and aging. Look for a supplement that has 50 to 150 mg of it for optimum effect.
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetylcysteine has shown the ability in clinical studies to actually improve the autoimmune system while simultaneously preventing cellular damage and thus aging. It also is a potent protector to environmental toxins like secondhand cigarette smoke, herbicides, even some chemicals. It is a powerful oxidant when taken at the 35 to 150 mg recommended level.
Resveratrol
Found in red wine and grape juice (among other sources), Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that studies have shown eliminates free radical damage linked to many cancers. It also has robust anti-inflammatory properties. Regarding its anti-cancer capability, it actually combats cancer at all three steps: initiation, promotion, and progression.
Resveratrol also possesses remarkable cholesterol lowering ability. Its antioxidant properties also has the ability to reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol). Lastly, look for a supplement that has 25 to 40 mgs of it for best effect.
Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Key-Vitamins-For-Seniors-You-Need-To-Know-About-Now&id=827022
The Heart Truth: Exercise For A Healthy Heart
11/02/11 09:04
Valentine's day is next week, and when it comes to your loved ones, the health of the heart is extremely important.
Heart disease is the #1 cause of death in the United States, according to Center for Disease Control (CDC).
A sedentary (inactive) lifestyle is the biggest cause of heart disease. Fortunately, this is something we can change.
Regular exercise can:
• Strengthen your heart and cardiovascular system.
• Lower blood pressure.
• Improve muscle tone and strength.
• Strengthen bones.
• Improve oxygen circulation in the body.
• Increase your stamina, so you can do more without being fatigued, or short or breath.
• Help control your weight and aid in weight loss.
• Reduce stress, tension, anxiety and depression.
• Improve sleep.
• Make you feel more relaxed and rested.
There is not a single pill in the world that can give you all these benefits. Regular exercise can help you dodge a dangeorus bullet - a heart attack and potentially save your life.
A structured, supervised exercise program can improve your health and the quality of your life. ALWAYS check with your doctor before you start exercising, especially if you have any medical conditions and / or take prescription medications.
ACCENT-Home Staging and Organizing, Inc.
09/02/11 09:41
Here is a company that can help prevent Falls by reducing clutter!
ACCENT – Home Staging and Organizing, Inc.
There is nothing like home – Let us help you stay there
Creating a safe and carefree environment for mature adults is our mission. We de-clutter and organize your space, creating a feeling of calm, control and safety. You will enjoy the ease of a lifestyle in a scaled down, well ordered home, which is a key component to your overall health and wellness program.
While we create room by room safety and arrange for the profitable disposal of unwanted items through auction, estate sale, buyout, consignment, donation, or a combination of the above, you can sit back and relax knowing that you are working with certified, caring professionals
A free home assessment
We love what we do, and hope you do too.
Call them at 516 773 3273.
Visit their website
ACCENT – Home Staging and Organizing, Inc.
There is nothing like home – Let us help you stay there
Creating a safe and carefree environment for mature adults is our mission. We de-clutter and organize your space, creating a feeling of calm, control and safety. You will enjoy the ease of a lifestyle in a scaled down, well ordered home, which is a key component to your overall health and wellness program.
While we create room by room safety and arrange for the profitable disposal of unwanted items through auction, estate sale, buyout, consignment, donation, or a combination of the above, you can sit back and relax knowing that you are working with certified, caring professionals
- Live in a Seas of Organization
- Live in control of your possessions, and not your possessions in control of you.
- Live stress less and struggle free, when you can easily find what you need.
A free home assessment
We love what we do, and hope you do too.
Call them at 516 773 3273.
Visit their website
Is Your Handbag Causing You All That Pain?
08/02/11 08:39
A new fashion trend is emerging, one that can cause more pain than you may realize – it’s those trendy, oversized bags (purses for women, and handbags for men) that wreak havoc on the human body.
There’s nothing wrong with being trendy. The trouble starts when you start loading up these bags with your laptop, wallet, shoes, cell phone, water bottle, magazine, make-up, and a some work related documents – and carrying this everywhere.
Before you know it, there’s a nagging pain in the neck or shoulder that may even radiate down the arm. Carrying the extra weight may cause problems in two ways:
1. It pulls on a web of nerves that can cause aching or shooting pain from the neck down the arm.
2. Every time you sling your bag over your shoulder, the upper back muscles that stabilize the shoulder blade struggle to counterbalance that weight; eventually they get overworked until a small movement like giving someone a hug or reaching for the phone causes sharp pain.
Carrying 10 extra pounds on one side of the body can cause the trunk to tilt sideways to compensate, causing more stress for your lower back. As the stiletto heel is to your foot, the designer handbag is to your upper back.
There’s nothing wrong with being trendy. The trouble starts when you start loading up these bags with your laptop, wallet, shoes, cell phone, water bottle, magazine, make-up, and a some work related documents – and carrying this everywhere.
Before you know it, there’s a nagging pain in the neck or shoulder that may even radiate down the arm. Carrying the extra weight may cause problems in two ways:
1. It pulls on a web of nerves that can cause aching or shooting pain from the neck down the arm.
2. Every time you sling your bag over your shoulder, the upper back muscles that stabilize the shoulder blade struggle to counterbalance that weight; eventually they get overworked until a small movement like giving someone a hug or reaching for the phone causes sharp pain.
Carrying 10 extra pounds on one side of the body can cause the trunk to tilt sideways to compensate, causing more stress for your lower back. As the stiletto heel is to your foot, the designer handbag is to your upper back.
Importance of Vitamins and Aging
03/02/11 10:24
There has been recent evidence that as one ages one needs different dietary and dietary supplements. This should not come as a surprise - we are not the same when we age as when we were once young. As we age, we tend to eat less (but that does not mean we won't gain weight - but, that's another topic). Eating less and the changes in our digestive system and skin all have effects on our vitamin levels. It had been estimated that almost one-third of elderly people have deficiencies in vitamins and important minerals.
What Changes Elderly Needs for Vitamins As mentioned above, older citizens tend to eat less and less balanced meals. This is a major cause for possible vitamin depletion. Also many medicines that one takes can change the absorption of vitamins. Some people develop gastritis or bowel changes that also adversely affect the absorption of vitamins. Vitamin D is dependent on exposure to sunshine (not a problem for most of us at Seabrook) and in someone is not out in the sun and coupled with the changes to everyone's skin as we age, sufficient vitamin D may not be made. For this reason the daily requirement for vitamin D is greater in elderly than younger people. Even people who take vitamin supplements may take the pill at night or in the morning without food, and most of the vitamins require fat in our diet to help get optimal absorption. The point here, is take your supplement with your biggest meal of the day.
Some Problems with Vitamin Deficiency Vitamin D is necessary for the health of our bones. If we have insufficient levels of vitamin D this can lead to brittle bones. It is important to also take a supplement of calcium to maintain bone density and help prevent osteoporosis in patients who are developing this with age. Vitamin B--12 is important in maintaining mental function. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in lean red meat, chicken and skim milk. Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 are required for homocysteine metabolism and have been shown to reduce heart disease if ingested in appropriate concentrations. The antioxidants potentially reduce the incidence of several chronic illnesses. The point is that vitamins are important in maintaining our health.
Original article: http://www.muschealth.com/healthyaging/vitamins.htm
What Changes Elderly Needs for Vitamins As mentioned above, older citizens tend to eat less and less balanced meals. This is a major cause for possible vitamin depletion. Also many medicines that one takes can change the absorption of vitamins. Some people develop gastritis or bowel changes that also adversely affect the absorption of vitamins. Vitamin D is dependent on exposure to sunshine (not a problem for most of us at Seabrook) and in someone is not out in the sun and coupled with the changes to everyone's skin as we age, sufficient vitamin D may not be made. For this reason the daily requirement for vitamin D is greater in elderly than younger people. Even people who take vitamin supplements may take the pill at night or in the morning without food, and most of the vitamins require fat in our diet to help get optimal absorption. The point here, is take your supplement with your biggest meal of the day.
Some Problems with Vitamin Deficiency Vitamin D is necessary for the health of our bones. If we have insufficient levels of vitamin D this can lead to brittle bones. It is important to also take a supplement of calcium to maintain bone density and help prevent osteoporosis in patients who are developing this with age. Vitamin B--12 is important in maintaining mental function. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in lean red meat, chicken and skim milk. Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 are required for homocysteine metabolism and have been shown to reduce heart disease if ingested in appropriate concentrations. The antioxidants potentially reduce the incidence of several chronic illnesses. The point is that vitamins are important in maintaining our health.
Original article: http://www.muschealth.com/healthyaging/vitamins.htm
What is Huntington's Disease and How Can Physical Therapy Help?
01/02/11 10:28
Huntington disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease that results in a progressive loss of functional abilities. Impairments in voluntary movements and the presence of involuntary movements are a contributing factor to functional decline.
Effectiveness of Physical Therapy
One study tracked 40 patients with HD over two years as they followed a comprehensive rehabilitation program. The regime included both the physical and cognitive aspects from physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. The findings showed that over time, physical therapy had positive effects on motor and functional performance. Moreover, cognitive abilities did not decline as would be otherwise expected. These results indicate that patients are able to, at the very least, maintain a constant level of functional, motor, and cognitive performance over two years with the help of physical therapy This is important because HD is characterized by a deterioration of these abilities. However, the problem with this type of study is the lack of control groups, and difficulty in quantifying progress in the absence of any common standards. Despite the evidence indicating that physical therapy can help people with HD maintain independence and functional capacity, recent research suggests that it is not always routinely provided. One survey revealed that only 24% of patients with HD had worked with an occupational therapist, only 8% had been seen by a physiotherapist, and close to none had been contacted by a speech therapist.
Although it is unknown why physical rehabilitation services are so rarely used by patients, several explanations have been proposed. One reason may be the fact that there are very few studies that quantify the effectiveness of such treatments. Another possible reason for the limited use of rehabilitation services is reluctance in the community of service providers to accept people who are afflicted with a progressive condition, because it is thought that their chances of improvement are exceedingly low.
Original article:
http://hopes.stanford.edu/n3559/managing-hd/lifestyle-and-hd/physical-therapy-and-huntingtons-disease-treatment-and-management
Effectiveness of Physical Therapy
One study tracked 40 patients with HD over two years as they followed a comprehensive rehabilitation program. The regime included both the physical and cognitive aspects from physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. The findings showed that over time, physical therapy had positive effects on motor and functional performance. Moreover, cognitive abilities did not decline as would be otherwise expected. These results indicate that patients are able to, at the very least, maintain a constant level of functional, motor, and cognitive performance over two years with the help of physical therapy This is important because HD is characterized by a deterioration of these abilities. However, the problem with this type of study is the lack of control groups, and difficulty in quantifying progress in the absence of any common standards. Despite the evidence indicating that physical therapy can help people with HD maintain independence and functional capacity, recent research suggests that it is not always routinely provided. One survey revealed that only 24% of patients with HD had worked with an occupational therapist, only 8% had been seen by a physiotherapist, and close to none had been contacted by a speech therapist.
Although it is unknown why physical rehabilitation services are so rarely used by patients, several explanations have been proposed. One reason may be the fact that there are very few studies that quantify the effectiveness of such treatments. Another possible reason for the limited use of rehabilitation services is reluctance in the community of service providers to accept people who are afflicted with a progressive condition, because it is thought that their chances of improvement are exceedingly low.
Original article:
http://hopes.stanford.edu/n3559/managing-hd/lifestyle-and-hd/physical-therapy-and-huntingtons-disease-treatment-and-management
Stress Management For Seniors
29/01/11 11:06
Most people don't think about how stressful aging can be. Being past one's youth and retired from employment can trigger stress-related health issues.
Unlike those youthful, carefree years, seniors now have to worry about such things as ill-health, wills, retirement funds and other issues that may occur during one's "Golden Years."
Stay Active
There are many programs geared toward seniors. Local YMCA facilities have water sports and workout routines specialized to abilities and needs. If going to the gym isn't enjoyable or accessible there is Mall-walking, neighborhood walk/jog groups, lawn bowling, golf or community chair aerobics and yoga.
Any sort of activity that gets a person moving for at least half-an hour can help keep the body agile and relieve stress.
Volunteer
Working with charitable foundations in the community helps seniors feel useful and needed. It's also a great way for seniors to still be interactive and work with other people, which is very important.
Socializing with others keeps seniors aware as to what's going on in their community and reduces the chances of becoming isolated or depressed.
Light a (Renewed) Fire
Remind a senior that now that she's retired, she can dig out those paint brushes or dust off that novel she was writing or even take up ballroom dancing. Yes, one phase in her life has closed now that she's not working on her career or now that children have all left her home. Now she can concentrate on what she loves or what she had to put aside throughout her younger years.
Such hobbies are good for the mind and soul and they help to remind seniors of their talents and helps keep them connected to the world in a creative way.
Work-Outs for The Mind
Just as it's important to keep the muscles going with exercise, stretching the mind muscles are important too. Even playing games like Trivial Pursuit, doing puzzles or crosswords, or reading books are great ways to keep the brain cells younger.
Another great idea is to see what kinds of courses or workshops are offered close to home. After all, it's never too late to learn new things or strengthen already attained knowledge.
Tap into the Soul
It's important for people to believe in something beyond themselves. That entity one turns to in times of sadness, turmoil or stress. Whether it's Buddha, God or something else, being able to tune into a Higher Power helps people make peace with themselves and others, which is so important near the end of life.
Practice Relaxation Exercises
Some phenomenal practices include deep breathing, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and even lighter forms of Pilates. Such relaxation practices help to connect the body, mind and soul as well as provide a much needed stress-buster. Such forms of relaxation are also low-body stress exercises enabling seniors to do the poses with relative ease.
Original article: http://www.myseniorcare.com/health/mental-health/stress-management-for-seniors-article
Unlike those youthful, carefree years, seniors now have to worry about such things as ill-health, wills, retirement funds and other issues that may occur during one's "Golden Years."
Stay Active
There are many programs geared toward seniors. Local YMCA facilities have water sports and workout routines specialized to abilities and needs. If going to the gym isn't enjoyable or accessible there is Mall-walking, neighborhood walk/jog groups, lawn bowling, golf or community chair aerobics and yoga.
Any sort of activity that gets a person moving for at least half-an hour can help keep the body agile and relieve stress.
Volunteer
Working with charitable foundations in the community helps seniors feel useful and needed. It's also a great way for seniors to still be interactive and work with other people, which is very important.
Socializing with others keeps seniors aware as to what's going on in their community and reduces the chances of becoming isolated or depressed.
Light a (Renewed) Fire
Remind a senior that now that she's retired, she can dig out those paint brushes or dust off that novel she was writing or even take up ballroom dancing. Yes, one phase in her life has closed now that she's not working on her career or now that children have all left her home. Now she can concentrate on what she loves or what she had to put aside throughout her younger years.
Such hobbies are good for the mind and soul and they help to remind seniors of their talents and helps keep them connected to the world in a creative way.
Work-Outs for The Mind
Just as it's important to keep the muscles going with exercise, stretching the mind muscles are important too. Even playing games like Trivial Pursuit, doing puzzles or crosswords, or reading books are great ways to keep the brain cells younger.
Another great idea is to see what kinds of courses or workshops are offered close to home. After all, it's never too late to learn new things or strengthen already attained knowledge.
Tap into the Soul
It's important for people to believe in something beyond themselves. That entity one turns to in times of sadness, turmoil or stress. Whether it's Buddha, God or something else, being able to tune into a Higher Power helps people make peace with themselves and others, which is so important near the end of life.
Practice Relaxation Exercises
Some phenomenal practices include deep breathing, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and even lighter forms of Pilates. Such relaxation practices help to connect the body, mind and soul as well as provide a much needed stress-buster. Such forms of relaxation are also low-body stress exercises enabling seniors to do the poses with relative ease.
Original article: http://www.myseniorcare.com/health/mental-health/stress-management-for-seniors-article
Physical Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis
24/01/11 08:07
Physical therapy has one simple goal: keeping you moving. It will stimulate muscles, bones, and joints through exercise or other methods. The result is more strength, tone, and overall fitness.
Physical therapists help you with joint function, muscle strength, and fitness level. They understand the mechanics of bones, joints, and muscles working together, the problems that can occur, and what to do about them.
Working with a physical therapist is a good idea at any stage or severity of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Early in the course of rheumatoid arthritis, your physical therapist can assess and document where you are in terms of function, strength, and fitness. Your exercise plan will be designed to maximize your chances of avoiding joint problems as the disease progresses.
• In moderate or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, a physical therapist can help you keep or increase the strength and flexibility you have.
Together, you and your physical therapist will create a road map of improvement for each muscle/joint group, and for your overall fitness. This will become part of the treatment plan for your rheumatoid arthritis. There are a number of strategies your physical therapist can use to reach your treatment goals.
• Exercise. This is the cornerstone of any physical therapy plan. Together with you and your doctor, your physical therapist will design an exercise plan that is targeted to your ability and fitness level. A good plan will include stretching/flexibility exercises; strength exercises, and conditioning (or aerobic) exercise.
• Heat/Ice. Treating inflamed or painful joints with heat or ice packs helps some people feel better.
• Massage. In some patients with chronic pain, therapeutic massage reduces symptoms.
• Motivation and encouragement. While "low-tech," it's hard to overestimate the value of having someone in your corner cheering you on-and pushing you to do better.
*Original article: http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/physical-therapy-for-rheumatoid-arthritis
Physical therapists help you with joint function, muscle strength, and fitness level. They understand the mechanics of bones, joints, and muscles working together, the problems that can occur, and what to do about them.
Working with a physical therapist is a good idea at any stage or severity of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Early in the course of rheumatoid arthritis, your physical therapist can assess and document where you are in terms of function, strength, and fitness. Your exercise plan will be designed to maximize your chances of avoiding joint problems as the disease progresses.
• In moderate or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, a physical therapist can help you keep or increase the strength and flexibility you have.
Together, you and your physical therapist will create a road map of improvement for each muscle/joint group, and for your overall fitness. This will become part of the treatment plan for your rheumatoid arthritis. There are a number of strategies your physical therapist can use to reach your treatment goals.
• Exercise. This is the cornerstone of any physical therapy plan. Together with you and your doctor, your physical therapist will design an exercise plan that is targeted to your ability and fitness level. A good plan will include stretching/flexibility exercises; strength exercises, and conditioning (or aerobic) exercise.
• Heat/Ice. Treating inflamed or painful joints with heat or ice packs helps some people feel better.
• Massage. In some patients with chronic pain, therapeutic massage reduces symptoms.
• Motivation and encouragement. While "low-tech," it's hard to overestimate the value of having someone in your corner cheering you on-and pushing you to do better.
*Original article: http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/physical-therapy-for-rheumatoid-arthritis
What is Gout and How Physical Therapy Can Help
23/01/11 08:53
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, warmth and tenderness in the joints. It usually affects the joint of the big toe but can occur in feet, ankles, knees, hands and wrists. Gout occurs when a substance called uric acid builds up in the body and forms needle-like crystals in the joints. The first symptoms of gout often occur in the middle of the night or upon rising in the morning. Wearing shoes and moving the joint or standing may be difficult and painful. Gout accounts for about 5 percent of all cases of
arthritis.
Causes
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid that occurs when the body has difficulty breaking down protein substances called purines which are found naturally in foods. Sometimes this happens because the kidneys are not getting rid of uric acid properly, and sometimes it occurs because the body produces too much uric acid. Eating too much of certain foods such as salmon, liver, herring or sardines and drinking too much alcohol may trigger an episode of gout.
Treatment
Successfully dealing with arthritis pain and disability requires self-management skills. It is important for patients to learn about their disease and to take part in their own care. Working with health care professionals allows a person to share in decision making and gain a sense of control.
Self-management techniques include arthritis education, exercise programs, relaxation and stress management, eating well-balanced meals and maintaining proper weight, taking care of joints and using assistive devices to rest joints and relieve pressure.
• Exercise can help increase independence, improve mood, decrease pain, increase flexibility, improve blood flow, maintain proper weight and promote general physical fitness. Exercise in a warm water pool is an excellent choice. Physical/occupational therapy can help restore joint movement and increase strength. A therapist can help design an exercise program to meet a person's specific needs.
• Rest also is important. Arthritis may cause tiredness and muscle weakness. A rest or short nap that does not interfere with nighttime sleep may help. Relaxation techniques can be useful in controlling pain. Some people find stress reduction and biofeedback helpful.
• Assistive devices can be used to reduce stress on certain joints. For example, braces or canes may help reduce stress on the knees. Jar grippers or other gadgets may help reduce stress on the small joints of the hands.
Original article: http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbgout.htm
arthritis.
Causes
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid that occurs when the body has difficulty breaking down protein substances called purines which are found naturally in foods. Sometimes this happens because the kidneys are not getting rid of uric acid properly, and sometimes it occurs because the body produces too much uric acid. Eating too much of certain foods such as salmon, liver, herring or sardines and drinking too much alcohol may trigger an episode of gout.
Treatment
Successfully dealing with arthritis pain and disability requires self-management skills. It is important for patients to learn about their disease and to take part in their own care. Working with health care professionals allows a person to share in decision making and gain a sense of control.
Self-management techniques include arthritis education, exercise programs, relaxation and stress management, eating well-balanced meals and maintaining proper weight, taking care of joints and using assistive devices to rest joints and relieve pressure.
• Exercise can help increase independence, improve mood, decrease pain, increase flexibility, improve blood flow, maintain proper weight and promote general physical fitness. Exercise in a warm water pool is an excellent choice. Physical/occupational therapy can help restore joint movement and increase strength. A therapist can help design an exercise program to meet a person's specific needs.
• Rest also is important. Arthritis may cause tiredness and muscle weakness. A rest or short nap that does not interfere with nighttime sleep may help. Relaxation techniques can be useful in controlling pain. Some people find stress reduction and biofeedback helpful.
• Assistive devices can be used to reduce stress on certain joints. For example, braces or canes may help reduce stress on the knees. Jar grippers or other gadgets may help reduce stress on the small joints of the hands.
Original article: http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbgout.htm
Wrist Pain and How to Make it Stop!
19/01/11 18:53
In an age dominated by computers, wrist pain is an increasingly common complaint. There can be many sources of wrist pain, ranging from sudden onset (a fracture after a fall or trauma) to repetitive stress leading to arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
If your pain has been going on for a long time, diagnosing the exact cause is something your physical therapist can help you with. The RIGHT diagnosis can help you get the proper treatment.
So What Are Your Symptoms?
Symptoms can differ, depending on the cause. For example, osteoarthritis pain is usually described as "dull pain", almost like a toothache. Tendinitis may be a “sharp or stabbing” pain. If you have any tingling, or “pins-and-needles” type of sensation, it may be related to nerve pain, which is often present with carpal tunnel syndrome. The exact location and type of wrist pain will help your doctor and physical therapist reach a conclusive diagnosis. This will allow them to design a treatment plan to help you on the road to recovery.
Two of the most common ways to injure your wrist are:
• Sudden impacts. Falls are the most common cause of injury, especially falling with your hand stretched out straight. This can cause sprains, strains and even fractures.
• Repetitive stress. Any activity that requires repetitive wrist motion – hitting a tennis ball, golfing, bowling, typing, or repetitive carrying of objects – can irritate the soft tissue in the wrist.
If your pain has been going on for a long time, diagnosing the exact cause is something your physical therapist can help you with. The RIGHT diagnosis can help you get the proper treatment.
So What Are Your Symptoms?
Symptoms can differ, depending on the cause. For example, osteoarthritis pain is usually described as "dull pain", almost like a toothache. Tendinitis may be a “sharp or stabbing” pain. If you have any tingling, or “pins-and-needles” type of sensation, it may be related to nerve pain, which is often present with carpal tunnel syndrome. The exact location and type of wrist pain will help your doctor and physical therapist reach a conclusive diagnosis. This will allow them to design a treatment plan to help you on the road to recovery.
Two of the most common ways to injure your wrist are:
• Sudden impacts. Falls are the most common cause of injury, especially falling with your hand stretched out straight. This can cause sprains, strains and even fractures.
• Repetitive stress. Any activity that requires repetitive wrist motion – hitting a tennis ball, golfing, bowling, typing, or repetitive carrying of objects – can irritate the soft tissue in the wrist.
Impact of Aging on Water Metabolism
17/01/11 09:09
Impact of Aging on Water Metabolism
The age-related decrease in total-body water (relative and absolute) makes elderly persons markedly susceptible to stresses on water balance. Average healthy 30- to 40-year-old persons have a total-body water content of 55 to 60 percent. By age 75 to 80 years, the total-body water content has declined to 50 percent, with even more of a decline in elderly women.
Clearly, the thirst mechanism diminishes with age, which significantly impairs the ability to maintain homeostasis and increases the risk for dehydration. There is also a clear age-related decrease in maximal urinary concentrating ability, which also increases the risk for dehydration. ADH release is not impaired with aging, but ADH levels are increased for any given plasma osmolality level, indicating a failure of the normal responsiveness of the kidney to ADH.
The ability to excrete a water load is delayed in the elderly. This propensity may contribute to the frequently observed episodes of hyponatremia in hospitalized elderly patients who are receiving hypotonic intravenous fluids or whose fluid intake is not properly monitored.
Other changes in renal physiology and anatomy that increase the elderly patient's susceptibility to alterations of water imbalance include decreased renal mass, cortical blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, as well as impaired responsiveness to sodium balance.
The impact of a lifetime of accumulated disease and comorbidities must also be duly considered in every clinical situation with an elderly patient, in addition to age-related physiologic changes. The elderly patient has a diminished reserve of water balance and an impaired regulatory mechanism. Thirst sensation, concentrating abilities and hormonal modulators of salt and water balance are sluggish and highly susceptible to being overtaken by morbid or iatrogenic events.
Original article: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000615/3623.html
The age-related decrease in total-body water (relative and absolute) makes elderly persons markedly susceptible to stresses on water balance. Average healthy 30- to 40-year-old persons have a total-body water content of 55 to 60 percent. By age 75 to 80 years, the total-body water content has declined to 50 percent, with even more of a decline in elderly women.
Clearly, the thirst mechanism diminishes with age, which significantly impairs the ability to maintain homeostasis and increases the risk for dehydration. There is also a clear age-related decrease in maximal urinary concentrating ability, which also increases the risk for dehydration. ADH release is not impaired with aging, but ADH levels are increased for any given plasma osmolality level, indicating a failure of the normal responsiveness of the kidney to ADH.
The ability to excrete a water load is delayed in the elderly. This propensity may contribute to the frequently observed episodes of hyponatremia in hospitalized elderly patients who are receiving hypotonic intravenous fluids or whose fluid intake is not properly monitored.
Other changes in renal physiology and anatomy that increase the elderly patient's susceptibility to alterations of water imbalance include decreased renal mass, cortical blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, as well as impaired responsiveness to sodium balance.
The impact of a lifetime of accumulated disease and comorbidities must also be duly considered in every clinical situation with an elderly patient, in addition to age-related physiologic changes. The elderly patient has a diminished reserve of water balance and an impaired regulatory mechanism. Thirst sensation, concentrating abilities and hormonal modulators of salt and water balance are sluggish and highly susceptible to being overtaken by morbid or iatrogenic events.
Original article: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000615/3623.html
What is Gait and How Home Physical Therapy Can Help
15/01/11 10:16
The pattern of how a person walks is called their gait. Many different types of walking abnormalities are produced unconsciously. Most, but not all, are due to some physical condition.
Some walking abnormalities are so characteristic that they have been given descriptive names:
Home Care
Treatment of the cause often improves the gait. For example, gait abnormalities from trauma to part of the leg will improve as the leg heals.
For an abnormal gait that occurs with conversion disorder, psychiatric counseling as well as support from family members is strongly recommended.
For a propulsive gait:
Original article: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003199.htm
Some walking abnormalities are so characteristic that they have been given descriptive names:
- Propulsive gait -- a stooped, rigid posture, with the head and neck bent forward
- Scissors gait -- legs flexed slightly at the hips and knees, giving the appearance of crouching, with the knees and thighs hitting or crossing in a scissors-like movement
- Spastic gait -- a stiff, foot-dragging walk caused by one-sided, long-term, muscle contraction
- Steppage gait -- foot drop where the foot hangs with the toes pointing down, causing the toes to scrape the ground while walking
- Waddling gait -- a distinctive duck-like walk that may appear in childhood or later in life
Home Care
Treatment of the cause often improves the gait. For example, gait abnormalities from trauma to part of the leg will improve as the leg heals.
For an abnormal gait that occurs with conversion disorder, psychiatric counseling as well as support from family members is strongly recommended.
For a propulsive gait:
- Encourage the person to be as self-reliant and independent as possible.
- Allow plenty of time for daily activities, especially walking. People with this problem are susceptible to falls because of poor balance and an unconscious effort to always catch up.
- Provide walking assistance for safety reasons, especially on uneven ground.
- Consult a physical therapist about exercise therapy and walking retraining.
- Loss of skin sensation is often associated with scissors gait, so skin care should be provided in order to avoid skin breakdown and ulcers.
- Leg braces and in-shoe splints can help maintain proper foot alignment for standing and walking. A physical therapist can supply these and provide exercise therapy, if appropriate.
- Both active and passive exercises are encouraged.
- Leg braces and in-shoe splints can help maintain proper foot alignment for standing and walking. A physical therapist can supply these and provide exercise therapy, if appropriate.
- A cane or a walker is recommended for those with poor balance.
- Adequate rest is encouraged. Fatigue can often cause an affected person to stub his toe and fall.
- Leg braces and in-shoe splints can help maintain proper foot alignment for standing and walking. A physical therapist can supply these and provide exercise therapy, if appropriate.
Original article: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003199.htm
Incontinence in Women Treated With Physical Therapy
12/01/11 09:20
A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine (March 18, 2008) reports that pelvic floor muscle training, in conjunction with bladder training, resolved the symptoms of urinary incontinence in women. According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), proper preventive measures and treatment by a physical therapist can help patients manage, if not alleviate, this often debilitating condition.
The study, which included 96 randomized controlled trials and 3 systematic reviews from 1990 through 2007, concluded that pelvic floor muscles training and bladder training resolved urinary incontinence in women, as compared to drug therapy, electrostimulation, medical devices, injectable bulking agents, and local estrogen therapy.
"This study is significant for many reasons, none more so than because it provides the highest levels of evidence to support the importance of intervention by a physical therapist who specializes in treating urinary incontinence," says Cynthia E Neville, PT, BCIA-PMDB, director of Women's Health Rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.
Urinary incontinence, or involuntary loss of bladder control, isn't something that just happens to older patients. In fact, the condition affects men and women alike, young and old. More than 25 million* Americans have urinary incontinence, and the experience can leave them feeling ashamed, socially isolated, and depressed.
Original article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/101112.php
Stretching: Why it is So Important
10/01/11 08:35
Stretching is the deliberate lengthening of muscles in order to increase muscle flexibility and joint range of motion.
Stretching activities are an important part of any exercise or rehabilitation program. They help warm the body up prior to activity thus decreasing the risk of injury as well as muscle soreness.
The benefits of stretching are many and have been proven through various studies over time. Stretching benefits people of all ages, and is intended for the young as well as the elderly population.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the top five benefits of stretching include:
• Increased flexibility and joint range of motion: Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring. Flexibility tends to diminish as you get older, but you can regain and maintain it.
• Improved circulation: Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles. Blood flowing to your muscles brings nourishment and gets rid of waste byproducts in the muscle tissue. Improved circulation can help shorten your recovery time if you've had any muscle injuries.
• Better posture: Frequent stretching can help keep your muscles from getting tight, allowing you to maintain proper posture. Good posture can minimize discomfort and keep aches and pains at a minimum.
• Stress relief: Stretching relaxes tight, tense muscles that often accompany stress.
• Enhanced coordination: Maintaining the full range-of-motion through your joints keeps you in better balance. Coordination and balance will help keep you mobile and less prone to injury from falls, especially as you get older.
For more information and original article: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/a/stretchbasics.htm
Stretching activities are an important part of any exercise or rehabilitation program. They help warm the body up prior to activity thus decreasing the risk of injury as well as muscle soreness.
The benefits of stretching are many and have been proven through various studies over time. Stretching benefits people of all ages, and is intended for the young as well as the elderly population.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the top five benefits of stretching include:
• Increased flexibility and joint range of motion: Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring. Flexibility tends to diminish as you get older, but you can regain and maintain it.
• Improved circulation: Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles. Blood flowing to your muscles brings nourishment and gets rid of waste byproducts in the muscle tissue. Improved circulation can help shorten your recovery time if you've had any muscle injuries.
• Better posture: Frequent stretching can help keep your muscles from getting tight, allowing you to maintain proper posture. Good posture can minimize discomfort and keep aches and pains at a minimum.
• Stress relief: Stretching relaxes tight, tense muscles that often accompany stress.
• Enhanced coordination: Maintaining the full range-of-motion through your joints keeps you in better balance. Coordination and balance will help keep you mobile and less prone to injury from falls, especially as you get older.
For more information and original article: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/a/stretchbasics.htm
Why Physical Therapy Should Be Part of Your Annual Check-Up
07/01/11 09:28
According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) every individual should pay an annual visit to a physical therapist along with making an annual visit to a physician for a complete physical check-up. Recent discoveries have pointed to the fact that physical therapy provides a holistic approach to overall health and wellness.
Benefits of Annual Physical Therapy Check-Up
Physical therapy should be part of your annual check-up. A licensed physical therapist will closely examine nerve, muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems through a holistic approach.
• Personalized Program: The physical therapist will also go through your personal health concerns and then work with you on a personalized program so you can actually do something about these concerns.
• Follow Up: In addition to putting together a personalized program a physical therapist will help you to follow through with the program by putting together a year-long plan during your annual check-up. Throughout the course of the year the physical therapist will help you to stick with the plan and make any necessary modifications in physical therapy requirements if you experience a change in your health status during the course of the year.
• Prevent Serious Health Issues: If you schedule an annual check-up with your physical therapist you will receive an annual plan to help improve your health so you have a higher potential to live longer without any serious health issues transpiring.
• Low Cost Solution to Rising Health Care Costs: According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, a research study showed that Americans may be spending money unnecessarily for treatments depending upon the health condition. Physical therapists can offer a personalized treatment plan and education for health and well being to provide an effective holistic alternative while reducing the costs of health care for the patient.
• Reverse the Aging Process: A regular yearly plan with your physical therapist can help you to reverse the aging process. Studies have shown that a regular training program reverses aging at the cellular level. A physical therapist can ensure that you stay with the program and maintain the proper diet and exercise which helps to slow the aging process.
*Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Physical-Therapy-Should-Be-Part-of-Your-Annual-Check-Up&id=5224046
Benefits of Annual Physical Therapy Check-Up
Physical therapy should be part of your annual check-up. A licensed physical therapist will closely examine nerve, muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems through a holistic approach.
• Personalized Program: The physical therapist will also go through your personal health concerns and then work with you on a personalized program so you can actually do something about these concerns.
• Follow Up: In addition to putting together a personalized program a physical therapist will help you to follow through with the program by putting together a year-long plan during your annual check-up. Throughout the course of the year the physical therapist will help you to stick with the plan and make any necessary modifications in physical therapy requirements if you experience a change in your health status during the course of the year.
• Prevent Serious Health Issues: If you schedule an annual check-up with your physical therapist you will receive an annual plan to help improve your health so you have a higher potential to live longer without any serious health issues transpiring.
• Low Cost Solution to Rising Health Care Costs: According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, a research study showed that Americans may be spending money unnecessarily for treatments depending upon the health condition. Physical therapists can offer a personalized treatment plan and education for health and well being to provide an effective holistic alternative while reducing the costs of health care for the patient.
• Reverse the Aging Process: A regular yearly plan with your physical therapist can help you to reverse the aging process. Studies have shown that a regular training program reverses aging at the cellular level. A physical therapist can ensure that you stay with the program and maintain the proper diet and exercise which helps to slow the aging process.
*Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Physical-Therapy-Should-Be-Part-of-Your-Annual-Check-Up&id=5224046
15 Tips For a Healthy 2011
03/01/11 18:11
It's the New Year, and it's also time for a flurry of resolutions. You're probably thinking about how you can become healthier, be more pain-free, and move better than you do right now.
Great thought! To help you along, here are 15 tips to get you healthy in 2011:
Great thought! To help you along, here are 15 tips to get you healthy in 2011:
- A gradual, personalized exercise program that takes into account your anatomy and physiology is important. Your physical therapist can conduct an evaluation and assist with this.
- Make yourself accountable to someone other than yourself. Log your exercises (either at home or at the gym) in a journal and inform your physical therapist about your progress.
- Self confidence is critical. Believe in yourself and your ability to become stronger, healthier and more functional. If you think you can, then you CAN!
- Visualize yourself as being stronger, with increase energy, as if you already achieved your goals. Positive expectations of health, vitality and energy are helpful to improve your health and well being.
- Drink plenty of water. Hydration is important for your blood, kidney, and joints.
- Always seek qualified help. Expert supervision provided by a physical therapist is important, especially if you are recovering from injuries or medical conditions.
- Be aware of what you eat. Fat has twice the caloric density of carbohydrates and protein. So limit your fat intake and consume a balanced diet containing lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
- Get into the habit of reading nutrition labels at the grocery store. Not all foods are created equal. Make a conscious decision to shop for natural foods and increase the variety of foods you consume. Most individuals have the same food habits. Deviate from your 'regular diet' and experience a world of fruits, vegetables, herbs and lean protein.
- Never skip meals, especially breakfast. It is the most important meal of the day, so start your day right - with a healthy breakfast. It will get your metabolism going, and keep your appetite and blood sugar in check as the day progresses.
- Find an exercise partner to help you stay consistent with your exercise regime.
- Consistency is key - exercise at least 3-4 times a week.
- Challenge yourself each week - gradual progression the only way to improve. Stay within the limits of pain. When in doubt, ask your physical therapist.
- Make sure a 5-10 minute warm-up and a 5-10 minute cool-down are part of your home exercise routine. Don't forget to include stretching in the warm-up and cool-down to reduce the risk of injury.
- Set specific goals for yourself (consult your physical therapist) and resolve to meet them.
- Reward yourself for small victories, they are important milestones towards your 'larger goal'. Positive reinforcement is the best way to stay on track and reach your health and wellness goals.
Cardiovascular Changes and the Aging Process
01/01/11 13:55
The cardiovascular system is sometimes called the circulatory system because it is comprised of the heart, blood, and blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries). Because it is responsible for circulating oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body, it is, understandably, one of the body systems most affected by age.
The walls of the arteries thicken, lose their elasticity, and become stiffer. This causes a decrease in blood flow to vital organs and causes blood pressure to rise. Major age-related changes include the following:
Blood
1. A decreased hematocrit (the number of erythrocytes in the whole blood) can lead to anemia, as well as certain dietary deficiencies.
Erythrocytes also help in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide and in maintaining a normal acid/base balance.
2. Peripheral veins become constricted or blocked by the formation of stationary blood clots (thrombus). These can dislodge, causing an embolism in the lungs or an extremity, thus shutting down circulation. When this happens, it most often means an amputation.
3.Because the valves in leg veins are often not able to work to capacity, blood often pools causing swelling of the lower extremeties.
4. The amount of red bone marrow decreases with age, causing a decline in the formation of new blood cells. Therefore, recovery from bleeding episodes will be slowed.
Blood Vessels
1. Blood vessel walls become thicker and tougher. Since the walls no longer have the elasticity to adjust to sudden changes in blood pressure, there is an increased risk of aneurysms.
2. As the inner surface of blood vessels become roughened, age-related changes cause an increased risk in the development of fatty plaques and of thrombus formation.
3. Weakened vascular walls also collect calcium salts, which increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. As the walls of veins weaken and stretch, their valves become incompetent. This is more likely to occur in the legs where the walls are subject to greater pressure as the blood struggles to return to the heart against the force of gravity. As a result, distended superficial veins develop (varicose veins). An inflammation, called phlebitis, also occurs more often in the elderly.
Heart
1. There is a reduction in exercise cardiac output. Because the heart is not able to pump the blood as efficiently, circulation is slowed. In addition, the heart cannot respond as quickly, or as forcefully, to the increased workload of the exercised heart. Exertion, sudden movements, and changes in position may cause a decrease in cardiac output, resulting in dizziness and loss of balance. A reduction in cardiac output leads to pooling of blood in the legs, cold extremeties, and edema.
2. The health of the myocardium (the heart’s muscular wall) depends on blood supply, and with age, the likelihood of athersclerosis increases, causing the coronary arteries to narrow, restricting the vital blood supply.
3. High blood pressure (hypertension) causes the left ventricle to work harder. It may enlarge and outgrow its blood supply and thus becomes weaker.
4. Several structural changes in the heart contribute to the impaired response to exercise:
◦ heart muscle loses elasticity and becomes more rigid;
◦ heart valves become thickened by fibrosis and more rigid (leading to murmurs);
◦ the number of pacemaker cells decreases;
◦ aging heart cells have a decreased ability to use oxygen;
◦ arrythmias are more common with age as the cells of the conduction pathway become less efficient.
Original article: http://www.innvista.com/health/anatomy/cardage.htm
The walls of the arteries thicken, lose their elasticity, and become stiffer. This causes a decrease in blood flow to vital organs and causes blood pressure to rise. Major age-related changes include the following:
Blood
1. A decreased hematocrit (the number of erythrocytes in the whole blood) can lead to anemia, as well as certain dietary deficiencies.
Erythrocytes also help in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide and in maintaining a normal acid/base balance.
2. Peripheral veins become constricted or blocked by the formation of stationary blood clots (thrombus). These can dislodge, causing an embolism in the lungs or an extremity, thus shutting down circulation. When this happens, it most often means an amputation.
3.Because the valves in leg veins are often not able to work to capacity, blood often pools causing swelling of the lower extremeties.
4. The amount of red bone marrow decreases with age, causing a decline in the formation of new blood cells. Therefore, recovery from bleeding episodes will be slowed.
Blood Vessels
1. Blood vessel walls become thicker and tougher. Since the walls no longer have the elasticity to adjust to sudden changes in blood pressure, there is an increased risk of aneurysms.
2. As the inner surface of blood vessels become roughened, age-related changes cause an increased risk in the development of fatty plaques and of thrombus formation.
3. Weakened vascular walls also collect calcium salts, which increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. As the walls of veins weaken and stretch, their valves become incompetent. This is more likely to occur in the legs where the walls are subject to greater pressure as the blood struggles to return to the heart against the force of gravity. As a result, distended superficial veins develop (varicose veins). An inflammation, called phlebitis, also occurs more often in the elderly.
Heart
1. There is a reduction in exercise cardiac output. Because the heart is not able to pump the blood as efficiently, circulation is slowed. In addition, the heart cannot respond as quickly, or as forcefully, to the increased workload of the exercised heart. Exertion, sudden movements, and changes in position may cause a decrease in cardiac output, resulting in dizziness and loss of balance. A reduction in cardiac output leads to pooling of blood in the legs, cold extremeties, and edema.
2. The health of the myocardium (the heart’s muscular wall) depends on blood supply, and with age, the likelihood of athersclerosis increases, causing the coronary arteries to narrow, restricting the vital blood supply.
3. High blood pressure (hypertension) causes the left ventricle to work harder. It may enlarge and outgrow its blood supply and thus becomes weaker.
4. Several structural changes in the heart contribute to the impaired response to exercise:
◦ heart muscle loses elasticity and becomes more rigid;
◦ heart valves become thickened by fibrosis and more rigid (leading to murmurs);
◦ the number of pacemaker cells decreases;
◦ aging heart cells have a decreased ability to use oxygen;
◦ arrythmias are more common with age as the cells of the conduction pathway become less efficient.
Original article: http://www.innvista.com/health/anatomy/cardage.htm
TMJ and Physical Therapy
30/12/10 08:21
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are among some of the most frequently used joints in the body, allowing us to talk, chew, yawn, swallow and sneeze. To find your TMJ, place your fingers in front of each ear and open your mouth, you will feel an indentation beneath your finger.
Symptoms:
1. Clicking or popping with opening or closing
2. Pain at rest or with opening/closing of jaw
3. Decreased ability to open the jaw (hypo mobility)
4. Neck pain
5. Tooth sensitivity
6. Dry or burning sensation in mouth
7. Uncomfortable bite
8. Forehead or temple headache
9. Buzzing or ringing in ears
10. Hearing loss
Possible Causes:
1. Trauma to the joint–blow to the jaw or head
2. Excessive stress to the joint from gum chewing, fingernail biting, yawning, chewing on a pen, chewing on ice, and grinding teeth
3. Jaw abnormalities, missing teeth, poor bite (malocclusion)
4. Resting the head in the hand
5. Arthritis of the TMJ
6. Dislocation of the disc
7. Myofascial pain dysfunction
8. Postural abnormalities, especially with a forward head posture
9. Whiplash injury
10. Prolonged mouth and upper respiratory breathing
11. Thumb sucking
12. Ligamentous laxity
13. Birth/Congenital trauma
Exercises You Can do:
1. Chin Tucks-Leading with your chin, try to press your head back. Do 3 sets of 15, twice a day. Try to do this exercise in front of a mirror.
2. Scapular Retractions- Use a theraband or other kind of elastic rubber band for this exercise. Tie the band around a stable object, such as a hinge on a door, the band should be level with your chest height. Holding both two ends of the band in the hands, pull your arms away from the door. Keep the elbow flexed at 90 degrees. Bring the arms back towards the door, slowly controlling the resistance given by the band. DO 3 sets of 15, once a day.
3. Massage the area- Try to gently massage over and around the area of discomfort. This will help to relieve any muscle spasm you may experience. This can be done with your mouth open and closed. Try to massage the area for about 10- 15 minutes.
If you still are experiencing pain after 2-3 weeks, you should see a physical therapist. They will be able to correctly diagnose and treat your pain and give you the plan of care you need to recover.
Original article: http://www.nismat.org/ptcor/tmj
Symptoms:
1. Clicking or popping with opening or closing
2. Pain at rest or with opening/closing of jaw
3. Decreased ability to open the jaw (hypo mobility)
4. Neck pain
5. Tooth sensitivity
6. Dry or burning sensation in mouth
7. Uncomfortable bite
8. Forehead or temple headache
9. Buzzing or ringing in ears
10. Hearing loss
Possible Causes:
1. Trauma to the joint–blow to the jaw or head
2. Excessive stress to the joint from gum chewing, fingernail biting, yawning, chewing on a pen, chewing on ice, and grinding teeth
3. Jaw abnormalities, missing teeth, poor bite (malocclusion)
4. Resting the head in the hand
5. Arthritis of the TMJ
6. Dislocation of the disc
7. Myofascial pain dysfunction
8. Postural abnormalities, especially with a forward head posture
9. Whiplash injury
10. Prolonged mouth and upper respiratory breathing
11. Thumb sucking
12. Ligamentous laxity
13. Birth/Congenital trauma
Exercises You Can do:
1. Chin Tucks-Leading with your chin, try to press your head back. Do 3 sets of 15, twice a day. Try to do this exercise in front of a mirror.
2. Scapular Retractions- Use a theraband or other kind of elastic rubber band for this exercise. Tie the band around a stable object, such as a hinge on a door, the band should be level with your chest height. Holding both two ends of the band in the hands, pull your arms away from the door. Keep the elbow flexed at 90 degrees. Bring the arms back towards the door, slowly controlling the resistance given by the band. DO 3 sets of 15, once a day.
3. Massage the area- Try to gently massage over and around the area of discomfort. This will help to relieve any muscle spasm you may experience. This can be done with your mouth open and closed. Try to massage the area for about 10- 15 minutes.
If you still are experiencing pain after 2-3 weeks, you should see a physical therapist. They will be able to correctly diagnose and treat your pain and give you the plan of care you need to recover.
Original article: http://www.nismat.org/ptcor/tmj
Total Hip Replacement Surgery- How Long Will it Take to Recover?
29/12/10 18:57
The day of hip replacement surgery is mostly a day to recover from your procedure. But it is not just about rest. Depending on the time of day of your surgery, you may be asked to sit in a chair or on the side of the bed.
Patients will begin simple activities including ankle pumps, leg lifts, and heel slides. It is important for patients to take sufficient pain medication to allow them to participate in their rehabilitation exercises.
Hospitalization:
During your hospitalization, you will meet with physical and occupational therapists. The physical therapist will work on mobility, strengthening, and walking. The occupational therapist will work with you on preparing for tasks such as washing, dressing, and other daily activities. Therapy progresses at a different pace for each patient. Factors that will affect the rate of your progression include your strength before surgery, body weight, and ability to manage painful symptoms. The type and extent of surgery can also affect your ability to participate in physical therapy.
Discharge/Rehabilitation:
Patients are usually discharged 3 to 5 days after hip replacement surgery. It is important that discharged patients be able to safely get in their homes and perform regular activities, such as getting to the bathroom and preparing food.
If patients are not progressing to the point that they can safely return to their home environment, in-patient rehabilitation may be recommended. This allows for further work with the therapists and 24-hour support services. Patients who return home will have home services arranged as necessary. This may include a visiting therapist and/or nurse.
Precautions:
After hip replacement surgery, some precautions are necessary to protect the newly implanted hip. These restrictions are known as "hip precautions." Hip precautions prevent you from placing your hip in a position where the ball could potentially come out of the socket -- a problem called a hip dislocation.
Walking:
Most patients take their first steps after surgery with the aid of a walker. Patients with good balance and a strong upper body may opt to use crutches. Transitioning to a cane depends on two factors. First, restrictions from your surgeon -- not all surgeons allow full weight to be placed on the leg in the early weeks after surgery. Second, your ability to regain strength.
Usual time to return: 2 to 4 weeks with a cane; 4 to 6 weeks unassisted
Stairs:
Many patients have to navigate stairs in order to enter or get through their homes. Therefore, your therapist will work with you to get up and down steps using crutches or a walker.
Usual time to return: 1 week with crutch/walker; 4 to 6 weeks unassisted
Driving:
Return to driving depends on a number of factors, including the side of your operation and the type of vehicle you have (standard or automatic). Patients need to be able to safely and quickly operate the gas and brake pedals. Under no circumstances should patients drive when taking narcotic pain medications.
Usual time to return: 4 to 6 weeks
Sex:
Patients can resume sexual activity once comfortable. It is important that you maintain your usual hip precautions to avoid dangerous positions. If you have questions about sexual positions, ask your surgeon or your physical therapist.
Usual time to return: 4 to 6 weeks
Work:
Return to work depends on the activity that you have to do at your job. Patients who work in a seated position, with limited walking, can plan on returning within about 4 weeks from the time of surgery.
Patients who are more active at work may need more time until they can return to full duties. Laborers should consider their work obligations before undergoing hip replacement. For example, patients may not be able to return to activities such as roofing after hip replacement.
Usual time to return: 4 to 10 weeks, depending on work obligations
*Original article: http://orthopedics.about.com/od/hipkneereplacement/p/hiprehab.htm
Patients will begin simple activities including ankle pumps, leg lifts, and heel slides. It is important for patients to take sufficient pain medication to allow them to participate in their rehabilitation exercises.
Hospitalization:
During your hospitalization, you will meet with physical and occupational therapists. The physical therapist will work on mobility, strengthening, and walking. The occupational therapist will work with you on preparing for tasks such as washing, dressing, and other daily activities. Therapy progresses at a different pace for each patient. Factors that will affect the rate of your progression include your strength before surgery, body weight, and ability to manage painful symptoms. The type and extent of surgery can also affect your ability to participate in physical therapy.
Discharge/Rehabilitation:
Patients are usually discharged 3 to 5 days after hip replacement surgery. It is important that discharged patients be able to safely get in their homes and perform regular activities, such as getting to the bathroom and preparing food.
If patients are not progressing to the point that they can safely return to their home environment, in-patient rehabilitation may be recommended. This allows for further work with the therapists and 24-hour support services. Patients who return home will have home services arranged as necessary. This may include a visiting therapist and/or nurse.
Precautions:
After hip replacement surgery, some precautions are necessary to protect the newly implanted hip. These restrictions are known as "hip precautions." Hip precautions prevent you from placing your hip in a position where the ball could potentially come out of the socket -- a problem called a hip dislocation.
Walking:
Most patients take their first steps after surgery with the aid of a walker. Patients with good balance and a strong upper body may opt to use crutches. Transitioning to a cane depends on two factors. First, restrictions from your surgeon -- not all surgeons allow full weight to be placed on the leg in the early weeks after surgery. Second, your ability to regain strength.
Usual time to return: 2 to 4 weeks with a cane; 4 to 6 weeks unassisted
Stairs:
Many patients have to navigate stairs in order to enter or get through their homes. Therefore, your therapist will work with you to get up and down steps using crutches or a walker.
Usual time to return: 1 week with crutch/walker; 4 to 6 weeks unassisted
Driving:
Return to driving depends on a number of factors, including the side of your operation and the type of vehicle you have (standard or automatic). Patients need to be able to safely and quickly operate the gas and brake pedals. Under no circumstances should patients drive when taking narcotic pain medications.
Usual time to return: 4 to 6 weeks
Sex:
Patients can resume sexual activity once comfortable. It is important that you maintain your usual hip precautions to avoid dangerous positions. If you have questions about sexual positions, ask your surgeon or your physical therapist.
Usual time to return: 4 to 6 weeks
Work:
Return to work depends on the activity that you have to do at your job. Patients who work in a seated position, with limited walking, can plan on returning within about 4 weeks from the time of surgery.
Patients who are more active at work may need more time until they can return to full duties. Laborers should consider their work obligations before undergoing hip replacement. For example, patients may not be able to return to activities such as roofing after hip replacement.
Usual time to return: 4 to 10 weeks, depending on work obligations
*Original article: http://orthopedics.about.com/od/hipkneereplacement/p/hiprehab.htm
Sciatica Prevention: What You Can Do
28/12/10 08:56
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve and its branches — from your back down your buttock and leg. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body. It runs from your spinal cord to your buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg.Sciatica is a very common symptom that is treated by the physical therapists at Distinctive Home Physical Therapy. There are preventative measures you can take to avoid having this pain. The tips below are from professionals at the Mayo Clinic.
1. Exercise regularly. This is the most important thing you can do for your overall health as well as for your back. Pay special attention to your core muscles — the muscles in your abdomen and lower back that are essential for proper posture and alignment. Ask your doctor to recommend specific activities.
2. Maintain proper posture when you sit. Choose a seat with good lower back support, arm rests and a swivel base. Consider placing a pillow or rolled towel in the small of your back to maintain its normal curve. Keep your knees and hips level. When working at a computer, adjust your chair so that your feet are flat on the floor and your arms rest on your desk or the chair's arms, with your elbows bent at a right angle. Take frequent breaks, even if it's just to walk around your office.
3. Use good body mechanics. Being conscious of how you stand, how you lift heavy objects and even how you sleep can go a long way toward keeping your back healthy. That's because poor posture stresses your back, leading to fatigue and stress on joints and nerves. If you stand for long periods, rest one foot on a stool or small box from time to time. While you stand, hold reading material at eye level instead of bending forward.
4. When you lift something heavy, let your lower extremities do the work. Move straight up and down. Keep your back straight and bend only at the knees. Hold the load close to your body. Avoid lifting and twisting simultaneously. Find a lifting partner if the object is heavy or awkward or if you're fatigued.
Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sciatica/DS00516/DSECTION=prevention
1. Exercise regularly. This is the most important thing you can do for your overall health as well as for your back. Pay special attention to your core muscles — the muscles in your abdomen and lower back that are essential for proper posture and alignment. Ask your doctor to recommend specific activities.
2. Maintain proper posture when you sit. Choose a seat with good lower back support, arm rests and a swivel base. Consider placing a pillow or rolled towel in the small of your back to maintain its normal curve. Keep your knees and hips level. When working at a computer, adjust your chair so that your feet are flat on the floor and your arms rest on your desk or the chair's arms, with your elbows bent at a right angle. Take frequent breaks, even if it's just to walk around your office.
3. Use good body mechanics. Being conscious of how you stand, how you lift heavy objects and even how you sleep can go a long way toward keeping your back healthy. That's because poor posture stresses your back, leading to fatigue and stress on joints and nerves. If you stand for long periods, rest one foot on a stool or small box from time to time. While you stand, hold reading material at eye level instead of bending forward.
4. When you lift something heavy, let your lower extremities do the work. Move straight up and down. Keep your back straight and bend only at the knees. Hold the load close to your body. Avoid lifting and twisting simultaneously. Find a lifting partner if the object is heavy or awkward or if you're fatigued.
Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sciatica/DS00516/DSECTION=prevention
Towns Distinctive Home Physical Therapy Travel to
23/12/10 08:45
Distinctive Home Physical Therapy travels to your home and gives you the care you need, without even leaving your house! We travel to your home in Nassau and Suffolk Long Island and Queens, NY. Look below to see if your town is on the list.
Here is a list of towns that we travel to:
Suffolk County: Amityville, Babylon, Bayshore, Bayport, Belle Terre, Bellport, Bohemia, Brentwood, Centereach, Centerport, Central Islip, Cold Spring Harbor, Commack, Coram, Deer Park, Dix Hills, East Northport, East Islip, Elwood, Farmingville, Fort Salonga, Greenlawn, Hauppauge, Holbrook, Holtsville, Huntington, Huntington Station, Islandia, Islip, Islip Terrace, Kings Park, Lake Grove, Lake Ronkonkoma, Lindenhurst, Oak Beach, Oakdale, Mastic, Medford, Melville, Miller Place, Middle Island, Mount Sinai, Nesconset, Northport, Patchogue, Port Jefferson, Port Jefferson Station, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Sayville, Selden, Setauket, Smithtown, St. James, Stony Brook, West Babylon, West Islip, Wyandanch
Nassau County: Albertson, Atlantic Beach, Baldwin, Baxter Estates, Bayville, Bellerose, Bethpage, Brookville, Carle Place, Cedarhurst, East Meadow, East Norwich, East Rockaway, East Williston, Elmont, Farmingdale, Floral Park, Flower HIll, Franklin Square, Freeport, Garden City, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Green Acres, Greenvale, Great Neck, Hempstead, Herricks, Hewlett, Hicksville, Inwood, Island Park, Jericho, Kensington, Kings Point, Lawrence, Levittown, Locust Valley, Lynbrook, Malverne, Manhasset, Manorhaven, Massapequa, Merrick, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Plainview, Port Washington, Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Sands Point, Sea Cliff, Seaford, Searingtown, Stewart Manor, Syosset, Uniondale, Westbury, Williston, Woodbury
Queens: Astoria, Bayside, Cambria Heights, College Point, Corona, Douglaston, Elmhurst, Far Rockaway, Flushing, Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Glen Oaks, Glen Dale, Hillside, Hollis, Jackson Heights, Jamaica, Kew Gardens, Laurelton, Little Neck, Locust Manor, Long Island City, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ozone Park, Queens Village, Rego Park, Richmond Hill, Rosedale, Saint Albans, Springfield Gardens, Sunnyside, Utopia, Whitestone, Woodside
Here is a list of towns that we travel to:
Suffolk County: Amityville, Babylon, Bayshore, Bayport, Belle Terre, Bellport, Bohemia, Brentwood, Centereach, Centerport, Central Islip, Cold Spring Harbor, Commack, Coram, Deer Park, Dix Hills, East Northport, East Islip, Elwood, Farmingville, Fort Salonga, Greenlawn, Hauppauge, Holbrook, Holtsville, Huntington, Huntington Station, Islandia, Islip, Islip Terrace, Kings Park, Lake Grove, Lake Ronkonkoma, Lindenhurst, Oak Beach, Oakdale, Mastic, Medford, Melville, Miller Place, Middle Island, Mount Sinai, Nesconset, Northport, Patchogue, Port Jefferson, Port Jefferson Station, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Sayville, Selden, Setauket, Smithtown, St. James, Stony Brook, West Babylon, West Islip, Wyandanch
Nassau County: Albertson, Atlantic Beach, Baldwin, Baxter Estates, Bayville, Bellerose, Bethpage, Brookville, Carle Place, Cedarhurst, East Meadow, East Norwich, East Rockaway, East Williston, Elmont, Farmingdale, Floral Park, Flower HIll, Franklin Square, Freeport, Garden City, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Green Acres, Greenvale, Great Neck, Hempstead, Herricks, Hewlett, Hicksville, Inwood, Island Park, Jericho, Kensington, Kings Point, Lawrence, Levittown, Locust Valley, Lynbrook, Malverne, Manhasset, Manorhaven, Massapequa, Merrick, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Plainview, Port Washington, Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Sands Point, Sea Cliff, Seaford, Searingtown, Stewart Manor, Syosset, Uniondale, Westbury, Williston, Woodbury
Queens: Astoria, Bayside, Cambria Heights, College Point, Corona, Douglaston, Elmhurst, Far Rockaway, Flushing, Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Glen Oaks, Glen Dale, Hillside, Hollis, Jackson Heights, Jamaica, Kew Gardens, Laurelton, Little Neck, Locust Manor, Long Island City, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ozone Park, Queens Village, Rego Park, Richmond Hill, Rosedale, Saint Albans, Springfield Gardens, Sunnyside, Utopia, Whitestone, Woodside
Osteoporosis and How to Tell if You Have it
22/12/10 08:07
According to Medicinenet.com, Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in the density of bone, decreasing its strength and resulting in fragile bones. Osteoporosis literally leads to abnormally porous bone that is compressible, like a sponge. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone and results in frequent fractures (breaks) in the bones.
Determining Factors:
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/page3.htm
Determining Factors:
- Female gender
- Caucasian or Asian race
- Thin and small body frame
- Family history of osteoporosis (for example, having a mother with an osteoporotic hip fracture doubles your risk of hip fracture)
- Personal history of fracture as an adult
- Cigarette smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Lack of exercise
- Diet low in calcium
- Poor nutrition and poor general health
- Malabsorption (nutrients are not properly absorbed from the gastrointestinal system) from conditions such as celiac sprue
- Low estrogen levels in women (such as occur in menopause or with early surgical removal of both ovaries)
- Low testosterone levels in men (hypogonadism)
- Chemotherapy that can cause early menopause due to its toxic effects on the ovaries
- Amenorrhea (loss of the menstrual period) in young women associated with low estrogen and osteoporosis; amenorrhea can occur in women who undergo extremely vigorous exercise training and in women with very low body fat, for example, women with anorexia nervosa
- Chronic inflammation, due to chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or liver diseases
- Immobility, such as after a stroke, or from any condition that interferes with walking
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/page3.htm
Your New Sleep Method For 2011
21/12/10 09:35
- Gentle, restorative stretching and controlled breathing as instructed by your physical therapist can help you relax and reduce muscle tension. This will put you in a better state of mind before you go to bed.
- Excess weight may contribute to sleep disorders. A physical therapist can also assist you with a safe, effective weight loss program and a regular exercise program designed to relieve muscle tightness and increase flexibility. This will assist you to sleep better.
- Eliminate caffeine and soda before bed time (the earlier in the day you can cut these out, the better). Depending on your caffeine fix, you may need to eliminate them around lunch time.
- Avoid heavy meals before bed time. A combination of healthy carbohydrates and protein during dinner team containing tryptophan, an amino acid that converts to sleep-promoting serotonin in the body is beneficial. You may want to consider whole wheat pasta, fresh vegetables and parmesan cheese, yogurt sprinkled with cereal, milk and graham crackers etc. For best results, consult a nutritionist for advice about which foods can facilitate (and may adversely affect) your sleep habits.
- Your body needs to cool to a certain temperature to reach a sound state of sleep, so if you tend to take a hot bath right before bed time, you may want to do it sooner (right after you get home from work). Cooling your bedroom before bedtime is also a good idea.
- Your bedroom must be as quit as possible. Consider soothing music or ear plugs to buffer unwelcome sounds.
- Switch off all lights in your bedroom. Dim the lights before bedtime if possible, since this is a biological trigger to 'wind down'. It's unlikely that you will go from the bright lights of a computer or the television to sound sleep since your body is in a 'daytime' mode. Installing dimmers in your bedroom and other rooms is valuable because your body needs darkness to unwind and relax.
- Leave all thoughts of work and all to-do lists outside the bedroom. Ban televisions, computers and cellphones from your bedroom, since your body is cued to respond to these devices even if they are in vibrate/silent mode. Resist the urge to use your cellphone as an alarm clock (you may want to switch it off completely) and get a regular alarm clock with a soothing, relaxing wake up reminder.
Happy New Year and Sweet Dreams in 2011
21/12/10 09:34
As 2010 comes to a close, the inevitable frantic deadlines and crazy schedules make it difficult to unwind and relax. This can affect your sleep patterns. We spend a third of our lives sleeping, and sleep is the more restorative of all activities, yet it's among the most neglected. If you or your partner have concerns about the quality of your sleep, then this article will be among the most important you ever read to improve your health in the coming year.
Take a moment to evaluate your sleep habits and ask yourself the following questions. Do you:
Some of the symptoms above may indicate sleep apnea (breathing that is blocked or partly blocked during sleep). Obstructive sleep apnea is largely undiagnosed (and potentially dangerous) because most individuals don't even realize they have a sleep disorder (unlike an insomniac who stays up all night). It affects more than 20 million Americans every night, according to a report on Health.com.
Take a moment to evaluate your sleep habits and ask yourself the following questions. Do you:
- Go to bed at different times every night
- Have difficulty falling asleep
- Depend on alcohol, medicines or sedatives to fall asleep
- Snore loudly
- Experience sleep interruptions; tossing and turning
- Wake up tired and restless; possibly with a headache
- Doze off at work
Some of the symptoms above may indicate sleep apnea (breathing that is blocked or partly blocked during sleep). Obstructive sleep apnea is largely undiagnosed (and potentially dangerous) because most individuals don't even realize they have a sleep disorder (unlike an insomniac who stays up all night). It affects more than 20 million Americans every night, according to a report on Health.com.
Timed Up and Go Test
19/12/10 10:02
At Distinctive Home Physical Therapy, we use the “Timed Up and Go Test” to gauge our patient’s range of mobility and as a fall prevention strategy.
Here’s an overview of the test:
Patients are instructed to stand up and walk 10 feet as fast but as comfortable as possible. They are then asked to sit down. A score greater than 14 seconds indicates a high risk for falls in the elderly.
Call us today to have your balance checked and to determine your fall risk level!
Here’s an overview of the test:
Patients are instructed to stand up and walk 10 feet as fast but as comfortable as possible. They are then asked to sit down. A score greater than 14 seconds indicates a high risk for falls in the elderly.
Call us today to have your balance checked and to determine your fall risk level!
After Hip Replacement Surgery- Now What?
17/12/10 13:38
Get yourself to physical therapy! Patients can begin physical therapy immediately after surgery. On the first day after surgery, it is common to begin some minor physical therapy while sitting in a chair. Eventually, rehabilitation incorporates stepping, walking and climbing. Initially, supportive devices such as a walker or crutches are used. Pain is monitored while exercise takes place. Some degree of discomfort is normal. It is often very gratifying for the patient to notice, even early on, substantial relief from the preoperative pain for which the total hip replacement was performed.
Physical therapy is extremely important in the overall outcome of any joint replacement surgery. The goals of physical therapy are to prevent contractures, improve patient education, and strengthen muscles around the hip joint through controlled exercises. Contractures result from scarring of the tissues around the joint. Contractures do not permit full range of motion and therefore impede mobility of the replaced joint. Patients are instructed not to strain the hip joint with heavy lifting or other unusual activities at home. Specific techniques of body posturing, sitting, and using an elevated toilet seat can be extremely helpful. Patients are instructed not to cross the operated lower extremity across the midline of the body (not crossing the leg over the other leg) because of the risk of dislocating the replaced joint. They are discouraged from bending at the waist and are instructed to use a pillow between the legs when lying on the non-operated side in order to prevent the operated lower extremity from crossing over the midline. Patients are given home exercise programs to strengthen the muscles around the buttock and thigh. Most patients attend outpatient physical therapy for a period of time while incorporating home exercises regularly into their daily living.
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/total_hip_replacement/page4.htm
Physical therapy is extremely important in the overall outcome of any joint replacement surgery. The goals of physical therapy are to prevent contractures, improve patient education, and strengthen muscles around the hip joint through controlled exercises. Contractures result from scarring of the tissues around the joint. Contractures do not permit full range of motion and therefore impede mobility of the replaced joint. Patients are instructed not to strain the hip joint with heavy lifting or other unusual activities at home. Specific techniques of body posturing, sitting, and using an elevated toilet seat can be extremely helpful. Patients are instructed not to cross the operated lower extremity across the midline of the body (not crossing the leg over the other leg) because of the risk of dislocating the replaced joint. They are discouraged from bending at the waist and are instructed to use a pillow between the legs when lying on the non-operated side in order to prevent the operated lower extremity from crossing over the midline. Patients are given home exercise programs to strengthen the muscles around the buttock and thigh. Most patients attend outpatient physical therapy for a period of time while incorporating home exercises regularly into their daily living.
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/total_hip_replacement/page4.htm
Exercises to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
15/12/10 10:34
If you sit behind a desk for most of your day, chances are you’re also using a computer. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be brought on by spending a lot of time writing or typing and can also be very uncomfortable.
The exercises below will prevent Carpal Tunnel in the future:
* Original article: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/a/CTSexercise.htm
The exercises below will prevent Carpal Tunnel in the future:
- Extend both arms straight out in front of you.
- Extend your wrists and fingers back (as if directing traffic to stop).
- Hold this position for 5 seconds.
- Now straighten your wrists and relax your fingers.
- With your arms still straight out in front of you, keep your wrists straight, make a fist, and squeeze it tightly.
- Hold this position for 5 seconds.
- Keep your fists clenched and bend your wrists down.
- Hold this position for 5 seconds.
- Straighten both wrists and relax your fingers again.
- Repeat this 9 more times.
* Original article: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/a/CTSexercise.htm
Seniors: More Protein to Improve Quality of Life
14/12/10 09:44
Scientists at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have good news for people who want to stay strong in their old age: older bodies are just as good as young ones at turning protein-rich food into muscle.
A newly published study suggests that a diet containing a moderate amount of protein-rich food such as beef, fish, pork, chicken, dairy or nuts may help slow the deterioration of elderly people's muscles.
Reducing the decline in muscle mass among the elderly is crucial to maintaining their health and independence, these researchers say. And they add that consuming adequate protein is essential for making and maintaining muscles. Since nutritional studies show that many elderly individuals eat less protein than the average person, researchers have reasoned that if the elderly simply increased their protein intake, they might slow down muscle loss -- as long as old age doesn't inherently interfere significantly with the ability to make muscles out of the protein in food.
"We wanted to know if there is some reason your grandmother's body, for example, can't stimulate muscle growth in response to eating the same protein-rich meal that you eat, which might over time contribute to muscle loss," said Douglas Paddon-Jones, an associate professor in UTMB's departments of physical therapy and internal medicine. Paddon-Jones is the senior author of a paper on the study published in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and now available online.
For complete article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/79223.php
A newly published study suggests that a diet containing a moderate amount of protein-rich food such as beef, fish, pork, chicken, dairy or nuts may help slow the deterioration of elderly people's muscles.
Reducing the decline in muscle mass among the elderly is crucial to maintaining their health and independence, these researchers say. And they add that consuming adequate protein is essential for making and maintaining muscles. Since nutritional studies show that many elderly individuals eat less protein than the average person, researchers have reasoned that if the elderly simply increased their protein intake, they might slow down muscle loss -- as long as old age doesn't inherently interfere significantly with the ability to make muscles out of the protein in food.
"We wanted to know if there is some reason your grandmother's body, for example, can't stimulate muscle growth in response to eating the same protein-rich meal that you eat, which might over time contribute to muscle loss," said Douglas Paddon-Jones, an associate professor in UTMB's departments of physical therapy and internal medicine. Paddon-Jones is the senior author of a paper on the study published in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and now available online.
For complete article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/79223.php
Piriformis Syndrome and Physical Therapy
02/12/10 08:52
Help For Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome describes a condition in which the piriformis muscle may be putting undue pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can cause severe pain and numbness felt deep in the affected leg's buttock and down through the foot. This is sometimes called "fat wallet" syndrome because a similar pain can be felt from sitting on a wallet in your back pocket for too long. Regardless of the name, there is help to relieve piriformis syndrome pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help relieve piriformis syndrome pain. Physical therapists use a combination of stretching and alignment to "untangle" the muscle that is putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can also involve heat application and deep tissue massages. Another aspect can involve using a Botox injection into the piriformis muscle, causing it to paralyze. Pain symptoms will be relieved for a few months while the therapist works to loosen the muscle in the hope of providing permanent relief once the shot wears off.
Original article and to read more: http://www.ehow.com/way_5157278_piriformis-syndrome.html
Piriformis syndrome describes a condition in which the piriformis muscle may be putting undue pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can cause severe pain and numbness felt deep in the affected leg's buttock and down through the foot. This is sometimes called "fat wallet" syndrome because a similar pain can be felt from sitting on a wallet in your back pocket for too long. Regardless of the name, there is help to relieve piriformis syndrome pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help relieve piriformis syndrome pain. Physical therapists use a combination of stretching and alignment to "untangle" the muscle that is putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can also involve heat application and deep tissue massages. Another aspect can involve using a Botox injection into the piriformis muscle, causing it to paralyze. Pain symptoms will be relieved for a few months while the therapist works to loosen the muscle in the hope of providing permanent relief once the shot wears off.
Original article and to read more: http://www.ehow.com/way_5157278_piriformis-syndrome.html
Migraines and Physical Therapy
30/11/10 13:43
More than 29.5 billion people in the United States suffer from migraines and many do not get treatment. There are not many effective ways to treat migraines, but physical therapy has been a successful route for some.
Read on for more information on how physical therapy can help you or a loved one:
Physical Therapy and Migraines
A classic migraine is often accompanied by tension in the neck. Doctors believe the tension is a result of the migraine, not the cause of it. Even so, relieving neck tension can help to reduce the pain and discomfort brought on by the migraine. A physical therapist or licensed massage therapist can train a family member, partner or friend in specific techniques that will help relieve some of your migraine pain. As soon as you feel a migraine coming on, ask your friend or family member to massage your neck. A physical therapist or chiropractor may be able to teach you some stretching exercise that can also reduce the discomfort and duration of a migraine. Because of the connection between nerve endings in the jaw and neck, pain in those areas can actually be experienced in the head as a migraine. In such cases, physical therapy can help to reduce tension in the neck and jaw and to restore proper alignment and function. Then, often, migraines will cease to occur.
Types of Physical Therapy
There are several types of physical therapy that migraine sufferers might consider trying. Different people experience different results with different techniques. There is classical physical therapy, which uses a combination of massage, adjustments, posture correction and movement work to restore proper function to your joints and muscles. There is chiropractic care. A chiropractor adjusts your joints to restore proper alignment. Misaligned bones can put pressure on nerves, triggering migraine episodes. Restoring proper alignment can be very helpful for some people. There is massage, which focuses on muscle work and can help to relieve neck tension and jaw tension that leads to non-classic migraines. Massage can also help reduce the neck tension associated with classic migraines. There is also acupuncture. This traditional Chinese therapy has shown promising results in treating migraine pain. In a study conducted in Xiangya Hospital in China and published in the Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion journal in 2009, researchers found that acupuncture worked slightly better than prescription medications for improving migraine symptoms. Its effects also lasted longer and had fewer side effects.
Original article: http://www.ehow.com/way_5792011_physical-therapy-migraine-headaches.html
Read on for more information on how physical therapy can help you or a loved one:
Physical Therapy and Migraines
A classic migraine is often accompanied by tension in the neck. Doctors believe the tension is a result of the migraine, not the cause of it. Even so, relieving neck tension can help to reduce the pain and discomfort brought on by the migraine. A physical therapist or licensed massage therapist can train a family member, partner or friend in specific techniques that will help relieve some of your migraine pain. As soon as you feel a migraine coming on, ask your friend or family member to massage your neck. A physical therapist or chiropractor may be able to teach you some stretching exercise that can also reduce the discomfort and duration of a migraine. Because of the connection between nerve endings in the jaw and neck, pain in those areas can actually be experienced in the head as a migraine. In such cases, physical therapy can help to reduce tension in the neck and jaw and to restore proper alignment and function. Then, often, migraines will cease to occur.
Types of Physical Therapy
There are several types of physical therapy that migraine sufferers might consider trying. Different people experience different results with different techniques. There is classical physical therapy, which uses a combination of massage, adjustments, posture correction and movement work to restore proper function to your joints and muscles. There is chiropractic care. A chiropractor adjusts your joints to restore proper alignment. Misaligned bones can put pressure on nerves, triggering migraine episodes. Restoring proper alignment can be very helpful for some people. There is massage, which focuses on muscle work and can help to relieve neck tension and jaw tension that leads to non-classic migraines. Massage can also help reduce the neck tension associated with classic migraines. There is also acupuncture. This traditional Chinese therapy has shown promising results in treating migraine pain. In a study conducted in Xiangya Hospital in China and published in the Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion journal in 2009, researchers found that acupuncture worked slightly better than prescription medications for improving migraine symptoms. Its effects also lasted longer and had fewer side effects.
Original article: http://www.ehow.com/way_5792011_physical-therapy-migraine-headaches.html
Physical Therapy Best Treatment Option for Spinal Stenosis
29/11/10 08:39
Physical therapy is something you should look into if you have spinal stenosis, also known as narrowing of the spine. The tips below are a few concepts to help you understand what you can do to relieve some of the pain that comes along with this condition. A physical therapy regimen should always be practiced with a licensed therapist.
1. Use good posture while walking, sitting and even sleeping. By ensuring that the spinal column is properly aligned at all times, you can prevent spinal compression and help to relieve the pain of spinal stenosis. Education about proper posture is a fundamental part of physical therapy.
2. Stretch often to maintain range of motion, flexibility and to relieve stress on the spinal column. Stretching for spinal stenosis should include exercises for the entire body. Often gentle forms of pilates or yoga can be used as a form of physical therapy during and after recovery. Not only do pilates and yoga stretch the body, they also help you to gain strength, another key part of therapy.
3. Participate in gentle exercises that will keep your body moving and help to strengthen your muscles. The most common forms of exercise used for physical therapy and spinal stenosis include water aerobics, walking, cycling, yoga and pilates.
4. Apply heat to painful areas before exercising and stretching to improve circulation to the spinal muscles and increase flexibility. Heat should be applied for 15 minutes maximum; however, never apply heat to swollen, inflamed areas. After your physical therapy exercises and stretches, use ice for 10 to 15 minutes to flush toxins, reduce any inflammation and reduce pain.
Original article: http://www.ehow.com/how_2292620_use-physical-therapy-spinal-stenosis.html
1. Use good posture while walking, sitting and even sleeping. By ensuring that the spinal column is properly aligned at all times, you can prevent spinal compression and help to relieve the pain of spinal stenosis. Education about proper posture is a fundamental part of physical therapy.
2. Stretch often to maintain range of motion, flexibility and to relieve stress on the spinal column. Stretching for spinal stenosis should include exercises for the entire body. Often gentle forms of pilates or yoga can be used as a form of physical therapy during and after recovery. Not only do pilates and yoga stretch the body, they also help you to gain strength, another key part of therapy.
3. Participate in gentle exercises that will keep your body moving and help to strengthen your muscles. The most common forms of exercise used for physical therapy and spinal stenosis include water aerobics, walking, cycling, yoga and pilates.
4. Apply heat to painful areas before exercising and stretching to improve circulation to the spinal muscles and increase flexibility. Heat should be applied for 15 minutes maximum; however, never apply heat to swollen, inflamed areas. After your physical therapy exercises and stretches, use ice for 10 to 15 minutes to flush toxins, reduce any inflammation and reduce pain.
Original article: http://www.ehow.com/how_2292620_use-physical-therapy-spinal-stenosis.html
Shoulder Tendonitis and How Physical Therapy Can Help
28/11/10 15:27
Tendonitis is irritation or inflammation of a joint and can be very painful and uncomfortable. Physical therapy is often recommended by doctors to treat these type of conditions.
What Causes Tendinitis?
Tendinitis is most often caused by repetitive, minor impact on the affected area, or from a sudden more serious injury.
There are many activities that can cause tendinitis, including:
For more information and original article: http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-tendinitis
What Causes Tendinitis?
Tendinitis is most often caused by repetitive, minor impact on the affected area, or from a sudden more serious injury.
There are many activities that can cause tendinitis, including:
- Gardening
- Raking
- Carpentry
- Shoveling
- Painting
- Scrubbing
- Tennis
- Golf
- Skiing
- Throwing and pitching
- An abnormal or poorly placed bone or joint (such as length differences in your legs or arthritis in a joint) that stresses soft-tissue structures
- Stresses from other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, thyroid disorders, or unusual medication reactions
For more information and original article: http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-tendinitis
Sciatica and How Physical Therapy Can Help
23/11/10 20:09
Sciatica can be caused by various things and also can be extremely uncomfortable. Physical therapy is recommended by many doctors and has been shown to give patients better range of motion as well as relief.
Your physical therapist may give you passive treatments such as:
* Original article: http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/sciatica/physical-therapy-relieve-sciatica
Your physical therapist may give you passive treatments such as:
- Deep Tissue Massage: This technique targets chronic muscle tension that could be pressing on your sciatic nerve or related nerve roots. The therapist uses direct pressure and friction to try to release the tension in your soft tissues (ligaments, tendons, muscles).
- Hot and Cold Therapies: By using heat, the physical therapist seeks to get more blood to the target area because an increased blood flow brings more oxygen and nutrients to that area. For example, a heat pack placed on your piriformis muscle may help to reduce muscle spasms that could be causing your sciatica. Cold therapy slows circulation, helping to reduce inflammation, muscle spasms, and pain. Your physical therapist will alternate between hot and cold therapies.
- TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation): You could even use this at home, if your therapist thinks it's necessary. A machine stimulates your muscles through variable (but safe) intensities of electrical current. TENS helps reduce muscle spasms, and it may increase your body's production of endorphins, your natural pain killers. The TENS equipment your physical therapist uses is larger than the "at home" use machine. However, whether large or small, a TENS unit can be a helpful therapy.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound sends sound waves deep into your muscle tissues and creates a gentle heat that enhances circulation and helps to speed healing. Increased circulation helps to reduce muscle spasms, cramping, swelling, stiffness, and pain.
* Original article: http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/sciatica/physical-therapy-relieve-sciatica
Suffering from Neck Pain? Manual Physical Therapy is the Way to Go
18/11/10 10:26
An article from the Spine magazine reports that a clinical trial proved evident that patients with neck pain who received manual therapy and exercise had twice the improvement compared to patients that did not receive that treatment. This technique is a hands-on approach that has been shown to reduce pain and symptoms for many injuries and conditions.
For full article:
http://www.aaompt.org/consumers/Manual_Physical_Therapy_Eases-Neck-and-Arm_Pain_FINAL.pdf
For full article:
http://www.aaompt.org/consumers/Manual_Physical_Therapy_Eases-Neck-and-Arm_Pain_FINAL.pdf
Physical Therapy for Pain Management
15/11/10 08:39
By Diana Rodriguez
Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
Chronic pain may leave you wanting to curl up in bed with a heating pad and a bottle of medication to help ease your aches. Although doing exercise may sound like sheer torture, it may actually be one of the best pain management options for your chronic pain.
"Physical therapy can be highly effective for all types of chronic musculoskeletal and neuropathic types of pain," says Tom Watson, PT, DPT, clinical director of Peak Performance Physical Therapy in Bend, Ore.
Physical therapy is used to alleviate sources of chronic pain, including:
As a chronic pain treatment, physical therapy can teach people how to move safely and functionally in ways that they haven't been able to for quite a while, Watson adds.
For more information and original article: http://www.everydayhealth.com/pain-management/physical-activity-and-therapy.aspx
Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
Chronic pain may leave you wanting to curl up in bed with a heating pad and a bottle of medication to help ease your aches. Although doing exercise may sound like sheer torture, it may actually be one of the best pain management options for your chronic pain.
"Physical therapy can be highly effective for all types of chronic musculoskeletal and neuropathic types of pain," says Tom Watson, PT, DPT, clinical director of Peak Performance Physical Therapy in Bend, Ore.
Physical therapy is used to alleviate sources of chronic pain, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic headaches
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Neuropathic pain (pain caused by injury to tissues or nerves)
As a chronic pain treatment, physical therapy can teach people how to move safely and functionally in ways that they haven't been able to for quite a while, Watson adds.
For more information and original article: http://www.everydayhealth.com/pain-management/physical-activity-and-therapy.aspx
Physical Therapy and Seniors: A Way to Get Back on Track
13/11/10 08:51
Physical Therapy a Boon for Seniors
Would you believe in a non-drug treatment that works for arthritis, cancer pain, Parkinson's, and incontinence and improves your strength and endurance? There is one -- physical therapy.
WebMD Feature
When a person gets injured or has a prolonged illness, doctors often recommend physical therapy. In the case of older people, though, sometimes this is seen as just something to "try." This could not be further from the truth. Physical therapy is "A-quality" therapy for many conditions affecting older people, from Alzheimer's to urinary incontinence. In fact, one researcher did a study in which you had to be 100 years of age to even participate!
According to Jennifer M. Bottomley, PhD, MS, PT, president of the geriatrics section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and adviser to the surgeon general, one of the main things that brings older people to the physical therapist is a fall. "They want and need to maintain their independence," she says.
"It's important to look at each individual," stresses Tim Kauffman, PT, PhD, professor of physical therapy at the Hahnemann campus of Drexel University in Philadelphia. "Every person of any age has an individual background, say an auto accident, football injury, genetic predispositions. No two 'old' people are the same."
According to APTA, physical therapy can restore or increase strength, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and endurance -- as well as reduce pain. Another important role is to retrain the patient to do everyday tasks.
*For original article:
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/physical-therapy-benefits-for-seniors
Would you believe in a non-drug treatment that works for arthritis, cancer pain, Parkinson's, and incontinence and improves your strength and endurance? There is one -- physical therapy.
WebMD Feature
When a person gets injured or has a prolonged illness, doctors often recommend physical therapy. In the case of older people, though, sometimes this is seen as just something to "try." This could not be further from the truth. Physical therapy is "A-quality" therapy for many conditions affecting older people, from Alzheimer's to urinary incontinence. In fact, one researcher did a study in which you had to be 100 years of age to even participate!
According to Jennifer M. Bottomley, PhD, MS, PT, president of the geriatrics section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and adviser to the surgeon general, one of the main things that brings older people to the physical therapist is a fall. "They want and need to maintain their independence," she says.
"It's important to look at each individual," stresses Tim Kauffman, PT, PhD, professor of physical therapy at the Hahnemann campus of Drexel University in Philadelphia. "Every person of any age has an individual background, say an auto accident, football injury, genetic predispositions. No two 'old' people are the same."
According to APTA, physical therapy can restore or increase strength, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and endurance -- as well as reduce pain. Another important role is to retrain the patient to do everyday tasks.
*For original article:
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/physical-therapy-benefits-for-seniors
Physical Therapy For Herniated Discs
11/11/10 09:54
Physical therapy often plays a major role in herniated disc recovery. Its methods not only offer immediate pain relief, but they also teach you how to condition your body to prevent injury.
There are a variety of physical therapy techniques. Passive treatments relax your body and include deep tissue massage, hot and cold therapy, electrical stimulation (TENS), and hydrotherapy.
Your physical therapy program will usually begin with passive treatments. But once your body heals, you will start active treatments that strengthen your body and prevent further pain. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a plan that best suits you.
* For more information and original article:
http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/herniated-disc/physical-therapy-herniated-discs
There are a variety of physical therapy techniques. Passive treatments relax your body and include deep tissue massage, hot and cold therapy, electrical stimulation (TENS), and hydrotherapy.
Your physical therapy program will usually begin with passive treatments. But once your body heals, you will start active treatments that strengthen your body and prevent further pain. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a plan that best suits you.
* For more information and original article:
http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/herniated-disc/physical-therapy-herniated-discs
Alzheimer's and Your Brain: A New Study
08/11/10 18:05
Medical professionals have always believed that exercising one’s brain could ward off Alzheimer’s in the future. But according to a new study in the journal Neurology, brain exercises can do more harm than good. Two experimental groups were monitored and the group that kept mentally sharp did indeed delay the disease. However, once the active participants were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, their brain activity deteriorated at a faster rate. The brain is like a muscle and exercise does make it stronger, but once it’s compromised, exercise can have the reverse affect.
For complete article:
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2010/09/07/new-alzheimers-study-uncovers-a-surprising-twist/
For complete article:
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2010/09/07/new-alzheimers-study-uncovers-a-surprising-twist/
Physical Therapy After Hip Replacement
05/11/10 13:45
After having a hip replacement procedure, your journey to a pain-free life is just beginning. Surgery does help alleviate hip discomfort, but physical therapy is crucial to getting on the road to recovery. Many people feel relieved and excited after having hip replacement surgery and are eager to do all of the things they used to be able to do immediately. Alterations to one’s lifestyle must be made to ensure a full recovery. For instance, your therapist may suggest a shower seat or a raised toilet seat to help you slowly ease back into doing daily activities.
For more information and original article:
http://www.everydayhealth.com/hip-pain/hip-replacement-physical-therapy.aspx
For more information and original article:
http://www.everydayhealth.com/hip-pain/hip-replacement-physical-therapy.aspx
Primal Reflex Relief Technique or PRRT
03/11/10 16:18
Primal Reflex Relief Technique is strongly favored by the therapists of Distinctive Home Physical Therapy. Not only is it effective, it also can be used to treat countless injuries and areas of the body.
First, the patient is examined from head to toe by the therapist until the problem area is recognized. Next, the therapist will work on that area and will realize almost instantaneously if PRRT will work or not. If it does work, the results can be life-changing.
See our website for more information on PRRT: www.distinctivept.com!
* For more information go to http://www.quinliskwp.com/web/prrt.asp
First, the patient is examined from head to toe by the therapist until the problem area is recognized. Next, the therapist will work on that area and will realize almost instantaneously if PRRT will work or not. If it does work, the results can be life-changing.
See our website for more information on PRRT: www.distinctivept.com!
* For more information go to http://www.quinliskwp.com/web/prrt.asp
Strength Training to Prevent Osteoporosis
02/11/10 09:18
People diagnosed with Osteoporosis often are under the impression that exercise or any strenuous activity can worsen their condition. That is 100% a myth! Weight bearing exercise, using 3-5 lb. dumbbells actually helps your bones. Depending on the severity, your physical therapist can give you exercises and methods for every day activities, such as learning how to lift and twist without putting pressure on your back and spine.
* For more information and complete article:
http://www.everydayhealth.com/osteoporosis/physical-therapy-for-osteoporosis.aspx
* For more information and complete article:
http://www.everydayhealth.com/osteoporosis/physical-therapy-for-osteoporosis.aspx
Beat Type II Diabetes With Physical Therapy
01/11/10 17:47
November is American Diabetes month. Although you may not think "physical therapy" if you have diabetes, the American Physical Therapy Association has stated that a safe, individualized exercise program may be the key in preventing type 2 diabetes for those at high risk for the disease.
Nearly 24 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $174 billion. The cost of caring for someone with diabetes is $1 out of every $5 in total healthcare costs.
Did you know that exercise has a positive effect on diabetes? A combination of aerobic exercise and resistance training to overload the muscles has been shown to help people with diabetes. As your physical therapy providers, we can tell you this is GREAT NEWS because we can help you control type 2 diabetes.
It gets even better. Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable. About 9 in 10 cases could be avoided by taking some simple steps:
1. Keep your weight under control
2. Exercise more
3. Eat a healthy diet and
4. Stop smoking
This is EXACTLY Where We Come In...
In a recent National Institutes of Health (NIH) study, physical therapists have contributed to the finding that lifestyle interventions have a big role in preventing diabetes by helping people develop safe exercise programs.
Your best bet for preventing the onset of diabetes is to remain physically fit and maintain an ideal body weight. Overweight or obese individuals must follow an appropriate exercise program that includes aerobic conditioning.
Your physical therapist can design a low-impact form of weight training by using low-weight, high-repetition exercise bands. This type of exercise helps to avoid excessive joint stress. Modified yoga stretches and Tai Chi are also great forms of exercise to promote flexibility and help with relaxation.
As people who are overweight begin to lose weight and gain fitness, they also need to increase the intensity of their exercise.
Physical therapists are extensively trained in balancing the progression of the exercise prescription with the need for joint protection and safety during exercise. This approach helps people to continue to pursue and enjoy their exercise programs and become lifelong advocates of exercise, supporting the maintenance of a healthy body weight.
What's Weight Got To Do With It...
If you are overweight, you may be at high risk for physical injury due to impaired strength and flexibility.
It's CRITICAL that you work with experts in motion who can help design a safe and comprehensive exercise plan to meet your individual needs.
As your physical therapists, we understand the difficulties you face and we monitor your progress during specific, appropriate exercise programs. This can be the difference between success and failure.
Give us a call today to get yourself, or a loved one started on the road to a healthier you. If you or someone you know is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, consult your physical therapist for a safe, appropriate exercise plan to help reduce that risk.
*Content from Distinctive Home Physical Therapy newsletter
Nearly 24 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $174 billion. The cost of caring for someone with diabetes is $1 out of every $5 in total healthcare costs.
Did you know that exercise has a positive effect on diabetes? A combination of aerobic exercise and resistance training to overload the muscles has been shown to help people with diabetes. As your physical therapy providers, we can tell you this is GREAT NEWS because we can help you control type 2 diabetes.
It gets even better. Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable. About 9 in 10 cases could be avoided by taking some simple steps:
1. Keep your weight under control
2. Exercise more
3. Eat a healthy diet and
4. Stop smoking
This is EXACTLY Where We Come In...
In a recent National Institutes of Health (NIH) study, physical therapists have contributed to the finding that lifestyle interventions have a big role in preventing diabetes by helping people develop safe exercise programs.
Your best bet for preventing the onset of diabetes is to remain physically fit and maintain an ideal body weight. Overweight or obese individuals must follow an appropriate exercise program that includes aerobic conditioning.
Your physical therapist can design a low-impact form of weight training by using low-weight, high-repetition exercise bands. This type of exercise helps to avoid excessive joint stress. Modified yoga stretches and Tai Chi are also great forms of exercise to promote flexibility and help with relaxation.
As people who are overweight begin to lose weight and gain fitness, they also need to increase the intensity of their exercise.
Physical therapists are extensively trained in balancing the progression of the exercise prescription with the need for joint protection and safety during exercise. This approach helps people to continue to pursue and enjoy their exercise programs and become lifelong advocates of exercise, supporting the maintenance of a healthy body weight.
What's Weight Got To Do With It...
If you are overweight, you may be at high risk for physical injury due to impaired strength and flexibility.
It's CRITICAL that you work with experts in motion who can help design a safe and comprehensive exercise plan to meet your individual needs.
As your physical therapists, we understand the difficulties you face and we monitor your progress during specific, appropriate exercise programs. This can be the difference between success and failure.
Give us a call today to get yourself, or a loved one started on the road to a healthier you. If you or someone you know is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, consult your physical therapist for a safe, appropriate exercise plan to help reduce that risk.
*Content from Distinctive Home Physical Therapy newsletter
Physical Therapy Can Help With Arthritis
29/10/10 14:19
Having stiff joints is a common complaint for seniors. Arthritis can be brought on by a person’s age or by a fall or other accident. Physical therapy can successful help a person with arthritis regain mobility and enable them to engage in everyday activities with ease.
Here are some of the reasons and ways that physical therapy can help:
* The patient will gain insight to what arthritis is and how they can get back on track,
* Your therapist can teach you exercises and techniques that will alleviate pain.
* If you are overweight, your therapist can help you develop a nutrition plan. Being at a healthy weight helps decrease the excess weight on supporting joints in the back, legs, and feet.
* For full article, go to http://www.medicinenet.com/arthritis_physical_and_occupational_therapy/article.htm
Here are some of the reasons and ways that physical therapy can help:
* The patient will gain insight to what arthritis is and how they can get back on track,
* Your therapist can teach you exercises and techniques that will alleviate pain.
* If you are overweight, your therapist can help you develop a nutrition plan. Being at a healthy weight helps decrease the excess weight on supporting joints in the back, legs, and feet.
* For full article, go to http://www.medicinenet.com/arthritis_physical_and_occupational_therapy/article.htm
How Physical Therapy Can Ease Fibromyalgia Pain
27/10/10 19:32
Living with Fibromyalgia is not easy. For many sufferers, everyday is a constant struggle to move and you can forget about exercise. What if you learned that an exercise regime could actually help you manage your symptoms? Well, many physical therapists are confident that exercise is one of the most effective ways to ease pain. A few options that your therapist may recommend are stretching, aqua therapy, and a low-impact aerobic routine.
*For full article, go to http://www.everydayhealth.com/fibromyalgia/ease-fibromyalgia-pain-with-physical-therapy.aspx
*For full article, go to http://www.everydayhealth.com/fibromyalgia/ease-fibromyalgia-pain-with-physical-therapy.aspx
Parkinson's Disease and How Physical Therapy Can Help
26/10/10 14:33
Approximately, 1 million people over the age of 50 have Parkinson’s Disease. Although physical therapy can’t completely cure Parkinson’s Disease, it can be a great method to alleviate many of the symptoms that come with this debilitating condition.
Here are a few areas PT can help you or a loved one:
* Balance issues
* Immobility
* Gait
* Weakness
* Pain
* Fatigue
* For original article, go to http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/physical-occupational-therapy
Here are a few areas PT can help you or a loved one:
* Balance issues
* Immobility
* Gait
* Weakness
* Pain
* Fatigue
* For original article, go to http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/physical-occupational-therapy