LaserTouchOne for Severe Pain Relief

Posted on December 19, 2012 by admin

The LaserTouchOne from ActiveForever is advanced, effective relief for severe pain.

The LaserTouchOne is effective and safe enough for everyday use. The FDA approved, clinical-grade, pain management tool combines micro-current electrical stimulation with laser light technology—a revolutionary form of treatment found to be effective for an increasing number of applications from laser surgery to physical therapy and rehabilitation.

This hand-held applicator emits “low-level, laser therapy” to eradicate discomfort from injury and inflammation while accelerating the healing process. The advanced, micro-current technology is designed to alleviate suffering caused by severe injury as well as chronic pain.

The penetrating cold therapy alleviates discomfort caused by both chronic pain as well as severe injury. Powerful soothing powers have garnered universal acceptance for the device; helping it to bridge the usual divide between traditional and alternative forms of pain relief.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is any treatment using intense beams of light to precisely cut, burn, or destroy tissue. The term laser is an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Lasers are used for a number of different medical purposes. The laser beam is small and precise, making it possible for doctors to safely treat tissue without injuring the surrounding area.

Other uses

  • Varicose vein treatment
  • Corneal eye surgery
  • Retinal detachment repair
  • Herniated or slipped disc
  • Prostate removal
  • Kidney stone removal

source: MedlinePlus; a subsidiary of the U.S. National Library of Medicine

 

 

Posted in Medical Supplies, Pain, Physical Therapy | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis, Whiplash relief and more

Posted on December 18, 2012 by admin

The NeckPro Cervical Traction Device is a safe, effortless, medicine-free way to alleviate pain associated with Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis, Whiplash, as well as neck pain and stiffness due to a variety of causes.

The best-selling cervical traction device from ActiveForever leverages the body’s natural reaction to pressure as a way to provide comfort. Simple to use and highly effective, the NeckPro effectively alleviates strain and tightness in the vulnerable neck, shoulder and back muscles. Its proven, patented therapy is versatile; commonly used to treat a host of conditions from pinched nerves to Spinal Stenosis. The best part, perhaps is that it simply hangs over the door, providing convenient neck traction right at home.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis usually occurs as a person ages and the disks become drier and start to bulge. At the same time, the bones and ligaments of the spine thickens or grows larger due to arthritis or long-term swelling (inflammation).

Other possible causes

  • Arthritis of the spine
  • Bone diseases
  • Congenital defect in the spine
  • Herniated or slipped disc
  • Injury
  • Tumors

source: U.S. National Library of Medicine

 

Posted in Medical Supplies, Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

HydroHose Makes Tangles and Kinks a Thing of the Past

Posted on August 28, 2012 by admin

HydroHoseIf you’re sick and tired of hoses cracking and getting tangled up then the Hydrohose Automatic Rewind Hose is ideal for you. The innovative Hydrohose with Automatic Rewind Reel makes watering the lawn to washing the car a breeze. Hydrohose utilizes flat host technology which means the entire hose is flat which makes it easy to store and use! HydroHose flat design allows it to be easily walked over when in the yard and small to store.

The Super Hydrohose Reel is a unique design that stays clean and kink free so you always get a steady stream of water. Hydrohose utilizes the same technology as professional fire hoses and is ideal for small spaces like boats or recreational vehicles. The rugged nylon outer casing prevents punctures and stays flexible in cold temperatures down to -30 degrees Fahrenheit. The nylon will not freeze if left outside.

The Hydrohose also has a lot of accessories available for purchase to add functionality. The HydroHose 25’ extension hose is an easy and affordable way to add 25 feet to your HydroHose. Also available for purchase is the replacement 75’ hose that is compatible with the HydroHose Automatic Rewind Hose Reel. Another affordable accessory for the HydroHose is the Replacement Spigot Connector Hose. The replacement spigot connector hose even stores inside the reel when not in use.

Posted in Independent Living | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fast and Easy, Natural Headache Cures

Posted on July 17, 2012 by admin

There are more than 45 million headache sufferers in America annually! Prescription and over-the-counter medications are a popular solution, but there are many ways to remedy headaches without pills. We’ve taken the top natural headache remedies and posted them here:

The first natural headache remedy you should always try – WATER. Stay away from the drinking frosty, cold water because that can make your headache worse (even if you’re not a fan, stick to drinking room temperature water when you have a headache).

Some people get relief from an ice pack on their head (where the head pain is), but others may find ice too cold. If you’re in the “ice is too cold” group, wrap a thin towel around the cold pack so it feels cool on your head.

I’m on the computer all day, every day so often my headaches happen behind my eyes. Anything cool over your eyes will help, but my favorite remedy for those headaches are TranquilEyes because they’re specifically designed to be cool and comfortable on your eyes.

Another problem with working on the computer all day is poor posture, which leads to slouching, and strain on your neck can cause tension headaches. A heating pad can help relax your neck and back. A friend of mine who suffers from migraines uses ice on her head with a heating pad on her back at the same time.

Massaging your neck and shoulders are great ways to get rid of headaches naturally. If you don’t have someone there to massage you, there are easy ways to massage your own neck (and then you have an excuse to buy this awesome neck massager – Carepeutic Deluxe Neck & Shoulder Massager with Heat).

When I have a headache, sometimes vibrations from portable massagers can make me nauseous (I get motion sickness just thinking of flying, though), so I’m a fan of using peppermint oil (some people prefer lavender oil) to help get rid of headaches. Just rub the oil into your temples (vary pressure to see what feels best) – some people like to keep the oil in the fridge so it is cool on contact for headaches.

These are simple and quick headache remedies to give you pain relief without medications. If your headaches start happening more frequently than usual, keep you from participating in normal activities, or continues to worsen over time you should consult with your doctor. If you have a natural home remedy for headaches that works for you, leave me a comment below. I hope these natural headache cures help you!

Posted in Pain | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Frozen Shoulder Diagnosis? Know the Treatment Options

Posted on July 5, 2012 by admin

Many people suffering from “frozen shoulder” initially think the pain in their shoulder is from something as simple as sleeping on it the wrong way. Unfortunately, their shoulder pain continues for months (often getting worse) before they see their doctor and their shoulder pain is diagnosed as “adhesive capsulitis” (more commonly known as “frozen shoulder”). The two most common questions after diagnosis: What is frozen shoulder and what is the treatment?

Frozen shoulder involves inflammation in the shoulder which causes pain, stiffness, and loss of motion in your shoulder (over time it can become painful to reach behind you or over your head). Doctors aren’t certain what causes this painful shoulder condition, but do know risk factors include shoulder surgery, mastectomy, diabetes, shoulder injury, and open heart surgery.

Baby Boomers beware – frozen shoulder is most likely to occur in people over the age of 40 (and is more common among women).

If your doctor tells you to “wait it out” or “it will just get better over time” when you ask about treatment options, consider getting a second opinion. It can take approximately 2 years to fully recover from frozen shoulder, but there are numerous treatment options.

Medication. The most common medications taken for frozen shoulder are anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as Aspirin, but doctors may prescribe stronger pain medications.

Injections. A common frozen shoulder treatment is steroid/cortisone injections directly into the affected shoulder. Placement is important for maximum pain relief so ask your doctor how they ensure the injection is placed in the correct (specific!) spot.

Physical therapy. Depending on the mobility limitations, physical therapy can be intense and may be needed daily. Some doctors use the injections mentioned above to help patients participate in pt. Physical therapists can teach you stretching exercises to help with shoulder mobility. If you’re interested in a faster recovery, ask your physical therapist to help you use the UE Ranger Movement Health System (the name is quite a mouthful but the results are great). The UE Ranger is a physical therapy device specifically designed to help patients with frozen shoulder increase range of motion, decrease neuromuscular weakness, and offer pain relief. You can read more about it here.

Surgery. If the frozen shoulder treatment options above are used and are not effective, surgery is considered an option. During the surgery scar tissue is removed from the frozen shoulder, and tight ligaments may be cut.

Physical therapists use the UE Ranger to treat patients with frozen shoulder for faster recovery.

 

Posted in Pain, Physical Therapy | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

How Safe is Your Bathroom? Carex Bathroom Safety Essentials

Posted on June 28, 2012 by admin

Bathroom Safety

The bathroom has become an increasingly dangerous place for the aging population.  More than one third of seniors over the age of 65 fall every year in the United States, and the majority of these falls occur in the bathroom.  The most hazardous bathroom activities for seniors are entering and exiting the bathtub or shower, and bathing. With the AARP’s calculation that people 50 and older will represent 45% of the U.S. population by 2015, the need for bath safety products will only continue to grow.

As the senior population steadily rises, and the state of the economy remains the same, more seniors are choosing to age independently in their homes, and are doing so on a budget. These seniors are looking for viable ways to make their bathrooms safe without a need for professional installation. According to HGTV.com the national average cost of a minor bathroom renovation is between $2,500 and $3,500, with full bathroom remodels reaching $30,000! The good news for seniors is that there are affordable bathroom safety products that will make the home bathroom safer without the need for any construction.

Bathroom Safety Essentials:

Below is a partial list of items that can assist seniors and care providers in making the bathroom a safer place:

Seniors and caregivers can look to Carex Health and ActiveForever.com for all of your bathroom safety needs. The following products are a reliable and affordable way to make your home bathroom safer for your aging family members.

  • Carex EZ Bath & Shower Seat with Handles The Carex EZ Bath & Shower Seat with Handles is a sturdy and supportive chair with a stylish and contemporary look designed for use in the bath or shower. Easy to grip handles provide a safer entry and exit from the bath or shower, and the non-slip, adjustable height legs ensure the seat stays securely where it is placed. The EZ Bath & Shower Seat installs in seconds, and then folds (and legs can be removed) for easy portability and convenient storage.

  • Carex Ultra Grip Pivot Suction Grab Bar The innovative Ultra Grip Pivot Suction Grab Bar pivots in the center, allowing the grab bar to be positioned and secured at any angle desired. Visual indicators let you know the Carex Pivot Grab Bar is firmly fastened, and it can be installed on any flat, non-porous surface. Don’t let the word “installation” intimidate you; the strong suction cups on this grab bar allow for tool-free installation, and it is equally simple to both attach and remove. The compact design makes the Carex Pivot Suction Bar a perfect grab bar for home or travel.
  • Carex Ultimate Handheld Shower Massager The convenient and affordable Carex Ultimate Handheld Shower Massager is the ideal addition to any bathroom. Easy to hold (due to the ergonomic grip handle), this Ultimate Shower Massager features 5 different massage and spray options, an extra-long hose for easy use, and a 4” diameter shower head for superior coverage. The non-corrosive chrome Carex Ultimate Shower Massager is simple to install, with an easy on/off switch for flow adjustment (can be done with one-handed ease!).
  • Carex EZ Lock Raised Toilet Seat with Handles People suffering from bending or sitting difficulties appreciate the easier access provided by the Carex EZ Lock Raised Toilet Seat with Handles. As the name implies, this raised toilet seat provides additional security by locking on to the toilet. Caregivers will appreciate the locking system is easily installed without the need for tools, and the existing toilet seat doesn’t have to be removed in order to use this Carex toilet seat. Padded armrests and the larger than standard toilet seat provide additional comfort for users. EZ Lock Raised Toilet Seat with Handles is easy to clean, lightweight, and conveniently portable.
Posted in bath safety | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The 5 Best Ways to Improve Your Memory

Posted on June 25, 2012 by admin

With the large population of Baby Boomers aging into senior citizen status, the demand for anti-aging products and techniques has hit an all-time high; among those anti-aging seekers is a focus on how to improve memory and brain fitness. Research has proven keeping the brain active and enhancing memory can help prevent age-related diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. If you think the only way to have better memory is to slave over a Sunday New York Times crossword, read on to find out the surprisingly easy ways to improve memory naturally. Below are the 5 best ways to improve memory:

1.       Exercise. Lately it may seem science has a bias against couch potatoes, but research has shown physical exercise has numerous brain benefits. When you exercise, increased oxygen goes to the brain which increases the brain’s power and improves memory. Some scientists suggest physical exercise also increases beneficial brain chemicals, and protection of the brain.

Exercise and socializing are two of the best ways to improve memory.

2.       Have fun with friends! There is evidence to support social interactions, having meaningful relationships, and a support system may actually be the best of all cognitive exercise. A Harvard study found “people with the most active social lives had the slowest rate of memory decline” (Smith & Robinson). Even better? Laugh with your friends! Laughing not only makes you feel good emotionally, it also engages different areas across the entire brain.

3.       Relax. We already know stress is bad for the body and it isn’t good for the brain. Studies have found people who meditated for even short periods of time, daily, had improvements in their memory and other cognitive abilities.

4.       Add brain foods to your diet. Antioxidants help protect your brain cells from damage, and are naturally found in fruits and vegetables. Drinking red wine can increase blood flow to the brain (too much alcohol can kill brain cells, so moderation is key). Evidence continues to mount that Omega-3 fatty acids slow brain decline in aging adults. Omega-3s are found in nuts and fish or are readily available in supplements.

5.       Use it or lose it. That’s the tough love way of saying if you don’t continue to actively use your brain (and memory) it will decline. The activities you can do to maintain memory are endless, but they need to contain these 3 key attributes: the activity is new, fun, and challenging. By doing an activity outside of your regular routine that is fun and challenging, your brain creates new connections and pathways.

 

Related Information:

Will the Boomers Generation be the Alzheimer’s Generation? What Boomers Need to Know About Preventing Alzheimer’s

Hidden Causes of Memory Loss

Biofeedback Devices Provide LONG TERM Stress Relief

Stress Relief Massage

How Stress Affects Health

 

 

Posted in Independent Living | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Best of Bedridden Bathing – Luxury Bathing in Bed

Posted on June 18, 2012 by admin

There are numerous challenges in caring for a bedridden loved one or patient, and one of the most common is bathing a bedridden person. These bedridden bathing solutions can help make bed baths a relaxing and even enjoyable experience for the bedridden person you’re caring for.

The most common way to give a bath to a bedridden person is the “bed bath” or “sponge bath” in which you gently cleanse parts of the body with a wet washcloth, thoroughly drying each body section before moving on to the next, starting with the person’s head.

There are some fantastic products to help you wash hair for anyone who has mobility issues, in particular the bedridden. Inflatable, shampoo basins specially designed to be placed under the head (where the pillow normally is) allow you to give a salon-worthy, splash free shampooing while they’re lying in bed! My personal favorite is the EZ Shampoo Basin, but others prefer the Homecare EZ Shower because the pouring water helps rinse out the shampoo.

I was amazed to learn there is a way for bedridden patients to luxuriate in a FULL BATH! It is called the EZ Bathe Inflatable Tub (sensing the naming trend here?), and it is a fully inflatable tub specifically designed for bedridden patients. The person in bed is rolled on to their side, and the fully deflated tub slides underneath them (so now they’re lying in the deflated tub). The tub inflates quickly, and a shower hose attaches to a water tap (can be up to 25 feet away) – instant bath, all without leaving the bed! The water drains, and the bath deflates just as easily after you’re done.

If you don’t like the idea of putting water on the bed (though those heavy duty products are specially designed with safety as a priority), there are bedridden bathing products that get you just as clean without the need to rinse. Readybath Shampoo Caps are shower caps containing no rinse shampoo and conditioner – put it on, massage, and remove (no cleanup!). There is an entire line of No Rinse products which allow a bedridden patient all the hygienic bonuses of a water bed bath, without the need to rinse. A fun aside – NASA uses No Rinse products to keep astronauts clean in space.

As the baby boomer population ages, no doubt there will be even more innovations in caregiving and medical supplies, though I’ll admit I’m pretty impressed with the products I mentioned here. I remember a time when a sponge bath was the only option for anyone bedridden, and I’ve appreciated these newer bedridden bathing options. To learn about a wide variety of bedridden bathing aids, click here.

Posted in bath safety, Stroke | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis? Understanding IPF

Posted on June 15, 2012 by admin

Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease in which the tissues in your lungs get scarred, and become thick and stiff over time. As the lungs stiffen, it becomes difficult for oxygen to efficiently be pumped to the brain and other essential organs. Sometimes doctors can find the cause of pulmonary fibrosis, but when they can’t (which is often) the condition is called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can be a confusing and overwhelming diagnosis, so we’ve put together some key information to help you understand the frequently asked question: “What is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis?”

Causes of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis:

By definition, if the cause of IPF was known it wouldn’t be diagnosed as IPF. That said, there are some theories on causes including that IPF is a kind of autoimmune disorder, and there may be genetic and/or environmental factors. The common theory currently is inflammation (in the lungs) happens as a response to a microscopic injury, which leads to scarring.

IPF most commonly affects older adults (50 – 75 years old).

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Symptoms:

Unfortunately, IPF symptoms may not appear until the disease has already made some progression. The most common symptom is shortness of breath, also called dyspnea  (some people say “breathlessness”), but many people dismiss this as a result of being out of shape or just part of the aging process. As the disease progresses breathing difficulties can make activities such as dressing and showering difficult. Additional IPF symptoms include rapid weight loss, hacking cough, loss of appetite, fatigue, and chest discomfort.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatments:

Currently there is no known cure for IPF. There are currently no FDA-approved therapies to treat IPF, though patients can opt to participate in clinical trials. For some patients, medications can help reduce the inflammation in the lungs. Oxygen therapy, or supplemental oxygen, is often prescribed for people with IPF, and respiratory therapy can be helpful.

Many people live three to five years after being diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and the most common cause of death is respiratory failure. A lung transplant is considered the best option to extend the lives of people with IPF, so it is important to discuss that with your doctor as soon as possible (ideally when the diagnosis is made).

There are also a number of things the individual has control of that can also help those with IPF remain healthier including eating healthy, getting plenty of rest, learning (and practicing!) relaxation techniques, staying active, and connecting with other IPF sufferers. For more information on ways to stay active with IPF, read our blog Staying Active with COPD. Each of these IPF topics can be covered in depth, but my goal here was help you better understand idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

7AEZ9RKQ66HE

Posted in Oxygen Therapy | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Swim Training Platforms Help Kids Learn to Swim

Posted on June 13, 2012 by admin

Summer is here, and nothing says summer quite like the delighted squeals and splashing coming from packed swimming pools all over the country. Signing up for swimming lessons was the official sign of summer for my siblings and me – swimming lessons were a summer tradition throughout our elementary years. The basics of teaching kids to swim haven’t changed much over the decades, but swim training platforms are an innovative way to help kids learn to swim (and one of the best ways to teach toddlers to swim!).

“Swim training platforms” sounds a bit intense, but these platforms for learning to swim are easy to use and becoming an essential for anywhere swimming lessons are taught. The swim lesson platforms are a simple, raised platform (portable) that goes into a swimming pool (they’re designed so they stay at the bottom of the pool and won’t float up) and offers a raised stand for children who aren’t tall enough to reach the bottom of the pool.

I have memories of bouncing on the balls of my feet in the shallow end when I wasn’t quite tall enough to stand flat on my feet as a kid (where were these great platforms then?). These learn to swim platforms give kids the confidence they need in the water from the very beginning.

Swimming lesson platforms are great for all ages, actually. Adults learning to swim need the same confidence (if not more) the learn to swim platforms inspire for children, and the platforms can be used as adult seating (in the water) for anyone needing to slowly become comfortable just being in the swimming pool.

Water aerobics instructors stand on the swimming platforms to be more visible to their classes, and it has numerous water exercise uses.

Physical therapists are using swim teaching platforms in aquatic therapy. Many therapists consider these versatile tools essential for any pool used by people with mobility issues and/or disabilities. While the basic design for these pool platforms is the same there are differences in construction materials, durability, weight capacity, and some feature removable rails.

For smaller budgets, I recommend the Economy Swimming Pool Training Platform. For a more versatile model, the Swim Training Platform has a higher weight capacity, removable railings, and a durable build to last through year-round use for many years. Whichever model you choose, the learn to swim platform is an essential pool accessory for all swimming facilities.

 

Posted in Fitness - Physical Therapy, Mother - Baby | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment