Health Journal Online

Author: admin

  • Modern AI Course: Lead Page

    Modern AI Course: Lead Page

    Product Name: Modern AI Course: Lead Page

    Click here to get Modern AI Course: Lead Page at discounted price while it’s still available…

    All orders are protected by SSL encryption – the highest industry standard for online security from trusted vendors.

    Modern AI Course: Lead Page is backed with a 60 Day No Questions Asked Money Back Guarantee. If within the first 60 days of receipt you are not satisfied with Wake Up Lean™, you can request a refund by sending an email to the address given inside the product and we will immediately refund your entire purchase price, with no questions asked.

    (more…)

  • Dual Anchor: A Neurodiversity-Informed Meditation for Wandering Attention

    Dual Anchor: A Neurodiversity-Informed Meditation for Wandering Attention

    In this guided practice, Sue Hutton offers an approach to meditation that marshalls sensory awareness as a way to sharpen focus.

    Traditional meditation practices can sometimes be frustrating and alienating for those who are neurodivergent. Bodily discomfort or intense mental restlessness can make even the most mindfulness-curious person feel like classic meditation techniques might not be for them.

    Sue Hutton believes that mindfulness can be for anyone, and she’s dedicated her work to making mindfulness practices like meditation accessible for neurodiverse communities. In this practice, she guides us through what she calls “Dual Anchor,” a kind of meditation that engages the senses to help gently steer attention. 

    Dual Anchor: A Neurodiversity-Informed Meditation for Wandering Attention

    1. This is a neurodiversity informed, guided meditation called Dual Anchor. It can be really useful to help bring a mind that wanders excessively and struggles to pay attention, to concentrate on two anchors at the same time with our senses. This practice utilizes our vision and our breath together at the same time. 
    2. Many of us carry a lot of overwhelm inside the body, so we don’t want to exacerbate that when we do our meditation practice. We come to this path seeking to cultivate calm stillness inside. I encourage you to bring a spirit of compassion to everything that you do in your meditation path, along with a sense of gentle curiosity. Try the practice best you can, but don’t push herself if anything is overwhelming or bringing up any kind of sensory overwhelm. 
    3. Let’s start off with concentrating using your vision on an object in front of you. A candle can be a very useful object to focus on the tip of the flame. But any object will do, allowing your posture to be upright and observing something in front of you with all of your attention visually. 
    4. Feel yourself concentrating on the center of that object. Notice the body softening as you concentrate on vision. The same way a film director zooms in, focus very clearly on an object. Allow your mind to sharpen, letting everything else fall to the background, holding full command of your gaze on this object. 
    5. Soften the brow, soften the jaw. Allow the body to be soft as you engage in observing this object very, very closely. Can you get a sense of the color, the texture, the shape? Just observe. Your vision is very focused. 
    6. Now let’s include awareness of the breath. Begin with closing your eyes just for a moment while you tune into the breath. As you close the eyes, just allow them to soften as though the eyelids just rest on the eyeballs, like gentle blankets, giving you a calm, quiet space inside. 
    7. Now, feel the breath in the way that works for you. You can observe the breath through sound, breathing in so loud that you can hear the sound of your breath like an ocean tide flowing in and out, observing the sound of the breathing, with full awareness of the sound on the inhale and exhale. You can also try experiencing the breath by just observing the gentle flow in and out of the body in a way that works for you. You can have your hand resting on the belly and the chest and just feel the sensations wherever it’s comfortable, either on this surface, feeling the hand’s rising and falling with the breath, or from inside the body. If it’s comfortable for you, you can try to feel where inside the body you notice that mechanism of breathing in and breathing out. 
    8. All the while, we’re bringing a sense of deep compassion and love for ourselves as we do this. You may even feel some warmth of compassion flowing into your body through your hands. So there’s a loving touch, compassion for ourselves as we breathe in and out. Remember, every outbreath is an opportunity to give yourself permission to relax and soften. This is a space for you to cultivate and calm within. 
    9. Now open your eyes once again and focus on that object, and let’s combine vision and breath. Focus deeply, all your concentration visually on this object: sharp concentration, unwavering, steady focus. Soften the brow and jaw. 
    10. Now, combine the rhythm of the breath in the way that works for you. Allow yourself to feel yourself right at the center of this deep concentration, sharp, focused vision and unwavering connection with the experience of the breath, vision and breath. Allow there to be a soft calm inside the body. 
    11. As you experience this compassionate rhythm of the breath, using this focused alertness with your vision. And allow the next exhalation to be one that lets go even more. What else can you relax and release on the next breath? 
    12. There is a clarity as we concentrate on these two objects at the same time. See for the next few moments if you can go even a little bit more committed to being in the center, staying focused on the breath and your vision, full concentration, and allow there to be even more softening and letting go of the whole body from the top of the head all the way down to the toes, releasing and relaxing, sharpening that concentration, vision, and breath. 
    13. You can now allow the eyes to close as you stay connected with the breath. Again, just resting like soft blankets over the eyes. Feel that letting go and softening of the whole face. You may observe it’s not pitch black under the closed eyelids, but there may be some shape, some light, amorphous, moving, perhaps softening you even more and observing what you can witness underneath these closed eyelids in this calm, relaxed space, feeling that compassionate rhythm of the breath. 
    14. If it’s comfortable, allow your eyes to gently open. Let the eyes just look around the room at different objects, observing how you can engage in vision as a grounding tool. Look at another random object and focus on that, observing the texture, the quality, the color. You can name the object, too—just one word, not description. 
    15. This is our dual anchor meditation practice for today using vision and breath. You can use that practice any time of the day. There are more practices like this on my website at SueHuttonMindfulness.com. Please come and visit. Explore other ways of engaging in neurodiversity and mindfulness. May you continue to find incredible ways of bringing mindfulness to your life in the unique ways that you can benefit from the most. Thank you for meditating with me.



    Source link

  • Escape the Commute: How to Create a Conducive Home Workspace

    Escape the Commute: How to Create a Conducive Home Workspace

    Escape the Commute: How to Create a Conducive Home Workspace

    Are you tired of the daily grind, stuck in traffic, and feeling drained and uninspired after a long day of work? It’s time to break free from the shackles of a traditional 9-to-5 job and create a home workspace that fosters creativity, productivity, and a sense of freedom. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of working from home, and provide practical tips on how to design and optimize your home workspace for maximum efficiency and comfort.

    Why Work from Home?

    Working from home, also known as telecommuting or remote work, has become a popular trend in recent years. With the advancement of technology, many jobs can be done remotely, and the benefits are numerous. Some of the advantages of working from home include:

    • Increased flexibility: Telecommuting allows you to set your own schedule and work at times that suit you best.

    • Reduced commuting time: No more sitting in traffic, dealing with rush hour, or wasting time on public transportation.

    • Improved work-life balance: With the flexibility to work from home, you can attend to personal matters, spend time with family, or pursue hobbies.

    • Better job satisfaction: Telecommuting can lead to increased job satisfaction, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being.

    Creating a Conducive Home Workspace

    To create a home workspace that is conducive to productivity and comfort, consider the following factors:

    • Space and layout: Choose a quiet, private area with minimal distractions. Consider the layout: a dedicated desk, comfortable seating, and sufficient storage for your work materials.

    • Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential. Consider using natural light, if possible, or invest in high-quality artificial lighting options.

    • noise reduction: Find ways to reduce noise interference, such as soundproofing, earplugs, or noise-cancelling headphones.

    • Ergonomics: Ensure your chair, desk, and computer setup promote good posture, reduce eye strain, and minimize fatigue.

    Designing Your Home Workspace

    Here are some practical tips to help you design and optimize your home workspace:

    • Start small: Begin with a dedicated area, even if it’s a small corner of your living room. As you get settled, you can expand to a larger space.

    • Invest in good furniture: High-quality chairs, desks, and shelving can make a significant difference in your productivity and comfort.

    • Minimize clutter: Keep your workspace organized and clutter-free by regularly tidying up and using storage solutions.

    • Create a ‘to-do’ list: Prioritize your tasks, and break them down into smaller, manageable chunks to help you stay focused and on track.

    Tips for Productive Home Work Sessions

    Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your home workspace:

    • Create a schedule: Set a specific work schedule and stick to it, including regular breaks and self-care activities.

    • Use productivity tools: Utilize digital tools, such as project management software, time tracking apps, and browser extensions, to streamline your workflow.

    • Take breaks: Regularly take short breaks to refresh your mind, stretch, and recharge your batteries.

    • Stay connected: Regularly check in with colleagues, clients, and friends to maintain communication and avoid feelings of isolation.

    Conclusion

    Creating a home workspace that is conducive to productivity and comfort takes some planning and effort, but the benefits are well worth it. By following these tips, you can design and optimize your home workspace for maximum efficiency and comfort. Remember to prioritize self-care, set realistic goals, and adapt to changes as needed. Escape the daily commute, and find freedom and flexibility in your work life.

  • Get Fit, Feel Alive: Top 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Regular Exercise

    Get Fit, Feel Alive: Top 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Regular Exercise

    The Power of Movement: Unlocking the Surprising Health Benefits of Regular Exercise

    As we navigate our busy lives, it’s easy to neglect our physical health in favor of more pressing concerns. But neglecting exercise can have severe consequences on our overall well-being. Regular physical activity is not only essential for maintaining a healthy body, but it also has a profound impact on our mental and emotional health. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 10 surprising health benefits of regular exercise, highlighting the incredible advantages of making physical activity a priority in your daily routine.

    1. Boosts Mental Health and Reduces Stress

    Regular exercise is often touted as an effective stress-reliever, and for good reason. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, also known as "feel-good" hormones, which help combat anxiety and depression. As you move your body, you’ll be surprised by the significant reduction in stress levels, allowing you to tackle everyday challenges with renewed energy and clarity.

    2. Improves Sleep Quality

    A good night’s sleep is crucial for physical and mental rejuvenation. Research suggests that regular exercise can significantly improve sleep quality, leading to better rest and recovery. By incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, you’ll be enjoying deeper, more restorative sleep in no time.

    3. Enhances Cognitive Function and Improves Memory

    Remember the old adage "use it or lose it"? When it comes to cognitive function, regular exercise is the ultimate brain-stimulating activity. Exercise has been shown to improve memory, boost creativity, and even delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.

    4. Reduces Inflammation and Improves Chronic Disease Management

    Chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer are often linked to chronic inflammation. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce inflammation, making it an essential component in managing and even reversing these conditions.

    5. Supports Weight Loss and Management

    Let’s face it: losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can be a daunting task. However, regular physical activity plays a critical role in the process. Exercise not only burns calories but also builds lean muscle mass, which helps increase metabolism, making it easier to shed pounds and keep them off.

    6. Increases Bone Density and Strength

    As we age, our bones naturally lose density, making them more susceptible to fractures and osteoporosis. Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing activities, can help increase bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and related injuries.

    7. Boosts Immune System Function

    Did you know that regular exercise can actually boost your immune system’s function? Exercise stimulates the release of immune cells, which help fight off infections and diseases, keeping you healthier and more resilient.

    8. Reduces Risk of Chronic Pain and Osteoarthritis

    Regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic pain and osteoarthritis. By maintaining flexibility and range of motion, you’ll be better equipped to handle everyday tasks without the added burden of chronic pain.

    9. Improves Social Connections and Overall Well-being

    Exercise is often a social activity, whether it’s joining a fitness class, playing team sports, or simply exercising with friends. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve social connections, boost mood, and enhance overall well-being.

    10. Increases Longevity and Reduces Mortality Rate

    The most surprising benefit of regular exercise? It can actually increase your life expectancy and reduce your mortality rate. Research suggests that individuals who engage in regular physical activity have a lower risk of premature death, making exercise a vital component of a long and healthy life.

    In conclusion, the health benefits of regular exercise are nothing short of remarkable. By incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, you’ll be effortlessly tackling the challenges of daily life, sleeping better, and enjoying a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

    Frequently Asked Questions:

    Q: What kind of exercise is best for beginners?
    A: Start with low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga, and gradually progress to more intense activities like running or weightlifting.

    Q: How often should I exercise?
    A: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, five days a week.

    Q: What if I have mobility issues or injuries? Can I still exercise?
    A: Yes! Modify your exercises to accommodate your limitations, and consult with a healthcare professional or fitness expert for personalized guidance.

    Q: Can I overdo it with exercise?
    A: Yes, it’s possible to experience safety concerns like overexertion or injury. Listen to your body, and consult with a medical professional if you experience any symptoms of overexertion.

    Q: Is it too late to start exercising?
    A: Absolutely not! It’s never too late to start reaping the benefits of regular exercise, regardless of your age or fitness level.

    Remember, every small step counts, and every bout of exercise is a step closer to unlocking the life you deserve. So, lace up your shoes, and get moving – your body (and mind) will thank you!

    get-fit-feel-alive-top-10-surprising-health-benefits-of-regular-exercise

  • VA Resource Navigator – National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

    VA Resource Navigator – National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

    VA Resource Navigator


     

    The VA Resource Navigator is a simple tool. It helps you access and understand the VA benefits you’ve earned. This go-to guide provides trusted web links, phone numbers, and QR codes to VA services and benefits.

    Find information about:

    • VA Locations
    • Records
    • Health Care
    • Disability and Benefits
    • Education and Training
    • Housing Assistance
    • Careers and Employment
    • Family member, caregiver, and survivor benefits
    • Pension
    • Burials and Memorials

    Download your own copy by clicking the Resources link or image above. Pass this website along to others so they too can learn about the VA Resource Navigator.

    Source link

  • Is Millet a Nutritious Grain? 

    Is Millet a Nutritious Grain? 

    Millet isn’t the name of a specific grain, but a generic term that applies to a number of totally different plants. Which is the most healthful

    “Millets are highly nutritious but vastly ignored as a main source of food primarily due to lack of awareness.” Have you heard of ancient grains? Millets aren’t messing around. Arguably, they are the first grains cultivated by humankind—dating back not only 5,000 years, but maybe 10,000.

    Why millets and not just millet? I had no idea that “millet” wasn’t the name of a specific grain. In fact, millet is a generic term that doesn’t just apply to different species but to a number of totally different plants. There are “major and minor millets,” pearl millet, which is what most people think of as millet, and also proso, foxtail, and finger millets, which are all completely different grains. Although they look similar, they aren’t the same, as you can see below and at 1:05 in my video Studies on Millet Nutrition: Is It a Healthy Grain?.

    Fiber is one of the main things we look for in whole grain, and Kodo millet’s fiber content is off the charts. But, compared to other grains, finger and foxtail millets also beat out the bunch. Note, though, that pearl millet (the one most people think of as millet) is really on the low side. But looking at the polyphenol content, even plain millet beats out the other grains, including sorghum, which I previously hyped for how much polyphenol it contains. But, again, Kodo millet seems to win the day, as you can see below and at 1:39 in my video. 

    When it comes to total antioxidants, though, Kodo and finger millets are comparably high, as shown here and at 1:43.

    When it comes to nutrition, finger millet is said to have eight times more calcium than other grains, but, to me, it looks like it has ten times the calcium. It’s just off the charts, as you can see here and at 1:55 in my video. 

    It also has three times as much calcium as milk. Some of the millets are exceptionally high in iron too. Regular millet is high, but barnyard millet has about five times more iron than steak. 

    So, it’s nutritious, but what about specific potential health benefits? In the medical literature, you can read statements like: Millets “may prevent cardiovascular disease by reducing plasma triglycerides in hyperlipidemic rats.” But who cares whether food reduces cardiovascular disease in rodents except for those with pet rats or mice?

    An epidemiological study in China found lower esophageal cancer mortality rates in areas where residents ate more millet and sorghum, compared to corn and wheat. That may have been due more to avoiding a contaminating carcinogenic fungus than to the benefits of millet itself, though. Studies have shown that millets may be effective against cancer cell proliferation in a petri dish, with Kodo and proso millets rapidly inhibiting cancer cell growth, compared to pearl or foxtail millet, as shown below and at 3:02 in my video, knocking down the growth of cancer cells, but leaving normal cells alone. Also, millets were found to reduce the growth of colon cancer cells, human breast cancer cells, and human liver cancer cells, and also potentially help to prevent metastases by inhibiting cancer cell migration. My patients are neither pets nor petri dishes, though, and to date, there have been no clinical cancer trials with millet. 

    Are there any unique health-promoting attributes? Some know finger millet for its health benefits, such as lowering blood sugar and cholesterol and having anti-ulcer characteristics, but the anti-ulcer study researchers cite just notes that some of the areas with a low incidence of ulcers also happened to be regions where residents eat millet, as shown here and at 3:49 in my video, and that’s far from establishing cause-and-effect. 

    And the cholesterol-lowering study cited? It explores what happens when you take tail tendons from rats and soak them in sugar and millet! The blood-sugar-lowering benefits are legitimate, though. “Apart from the fact that millets do not contain gluten,” which is good for the 1 or 2 percent of people who have celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, “millets can also be exploited in the management of type II diabetes due to their hypoglycemic [blood-sugar-lowering] property, as reported by several studies on millets and millet-based foods”—done with actual people, which we’ll cover next. 

    Isn’t it mind-blowing that millet isn’t actually a grain but a generic term? I learn something new every day—and make videos about it for you.

    I have a few millet recipes in The How Not to Diet Cookbook, including Millet Risotto with Mushrooms, White Beans, and Spinach. Find it at your local library or wherever you get your books. (As always, all proceeds from my books are donated to charity.) You can also substitute millet for the barley and/or rye in my Basic BROL Bowl.

    This is part of an extended series, which includes another three videos listed in the related posts below. 



    Source link

  • The Ultimate Guide to Safeguarding Your Baby’s Hearing

    The Ultimate Guide to Safeguarding Your Baby’s Hearing

    Bringing a baby into the world means suddenly becoming their ultimate protector—from tiny toes to delicate ears. While we often focus on baby-proofing sharp corners and securing cabinets, we sometimes forget that their hearing needs just as much protection. Babies have incredibly sensitive ears, and loud noises, unsafe headphones, or even everyday household sounds can impact their developing hearing in ways we might not realise. But don’t worry—you don’t need to wrap your little one in bubble wrap! You can keep their tiny ears safe without overcomplicating things with a few simple precautions.

    In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about safeguarding your baby’s hearing in a practical and stress-free way. From understanding how loud it is to choose the right baby-safe headphones, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a first-time parent or just looking for a refresher, you’ll find easy tips to help protect your little one’s hearing—so they can enjoy all the wonderful sounds of the world for years to come!

    Trusted by Professionals, Made for Kids

    As parents, we want the best for our little ones, including protecting their delicate hearing. From everyday noise to loud events, babies and young children are constantly exposed to sounds that can be too much for their tiny ears to handle. That’s where Decibel Defense comes in! Known as a leader in hearing protection, Decibel Defense offers top-of-the-line ear protection designed specifically for babies, toddlers, and older children.

    Their earmuffs are practical, comfortable, and fun, making them the perfect solution for keeping your child’s ears safe from harmful noise. Designed for children as young as six months and adaptable for children up to 12, these earmuffs protect your child’s hearing at every step.

    Company Site

    Unbeatable Sound Protection

    Regarding hearing protection, quality matters—and Decibel Defense delivers. Their kids’ earmuffs come with an industry-leading Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 28 dB, making them one of the best options for shielding young ears from loud or distracting sounds. Whether you’re at a fireworks show or sporting event or just trying to help your little one nap in a noisy environment, these earmuffs do the job effortlessly. Plus, they’re built with soft, lightweight materials to ensure maximum comfort, even during all-day wear. And because we know kids can be rough on their gear, these earmuffs are durable and easy to clean, making them a long-lasting investment in your child’s well-being.

    Let’s be honest—if something isn’t fun or comfortable, kids won’t wear it. That’s why Decibel Defense designed their earmuffs to be effective and kid-approved! With a sleek, child-friendly design and a variety of fun colours for both boys and girls, these earmuffs are as stylish as they are functional. Whether your child is sensitive to noise, attending a loud event, or needs quiet time, these earmuffs make ear protection a seamless and enjoyable experience. No more struggles to keep them on—your child will want to wear them!

    The Perfect Size for Portability

    One size doesn’t fit all, especially regarding kids’ accessories. That’s why Decibel Defense designed their earmuffs with an adjustable, soft-padded headband and cushioned ear cups, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for babies, toddlers, and children of all sizes. Whether you have a tiny or growing infant, these earmuffs adapt to fit perfectly. And for older kids, teens, or even adults looking for extra noise protection, Decibel Defense has you covered with their best-in-class hearing protection options.

    Life with kids is busy, and their essentials need to be easy to take on the go. Decibel Defense’s soundproof earmuffs are compact, lightweight, and designed for ultimate convenience. They easily fit into a travel bag, attach to a stroller, or hang from a car seat, making them a must-have for flights, road trips, concerts, and other noisy environments. Whether navigating a bustling airport or trying to keep things quiet during naptime, these earmuffs provide a stress-free solution for protecting your child’s hearing.

    ***

    Your child’s hearing is precious; protecting it doesn’t have to be complicated. With Decibel Defense’s trusted, high-quality ear protection, you can give your little one the comfort and safety they deserve—without any fuss. Whether looking for a way to block out noise at events, during travel, or at home, these earmuffs are bright and easy. So go ahead and enjoy life’s adventures with your child, knowing their tiny ears are safe and sound!

    Source link

  • Simple Supplement May Boost Brain Function And Memory In Elderly

    Simple Supplement May Boost Brain Function And Memory In Elderly

    Experiencing memory issues and declining brain function is often seen as a natural part of aging, and it can also be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. But what if boosting memory was not as complicated as it seems? Research suggests that the key may lie in an unexpected place—the gut.

    Adding more evidence to the fascinating connection between gut health and brain function, a recent study published in Nature Communications, suggests that a daily prebiotic supplement could sharpen memory and boost cognitive performance in adults over 60.

    To investigate whether two inexpensive and widely available plant fiber supplements: inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), could enhance brain function, researchers conducted a rigorous double-blind trial involving 36 pairs of twins over the age of 60. Since genetics play a significant role in cognitive health, using twins allowed the researchers to control for inherited differences, ensuring that any observed improvements in memory and brain function were more likely due to the supplements rather than genetic factors.

    During the trial, the participants either received a placebo or the supplement daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the trial, researchers observed significant changes in the gut microbiome of participants who took the fiber supplement, particularly an increase in Bifidobacterium, a beneficial bacteria linked to gut and brain health.

    By comparing the cognitive abilities of identical siblings using questionnaires and cognitive tests, the researchers found that after the end of the trial, the participants who took inulin or FOS consistently outperformed their sibling.

    “We are excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks. This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our aging population. Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer,” said first author Dr. Mary Ni Lochlainn from the Department of Twin Research in a news release.

    “These plant fibers, which are cheap and available over the counter, could benefit a wide group of people in these cash-strapped times. They are safe and acceptable too. Our next task is to see whether these effects are sustained over longer periods and in larger groups of people,” added senior author Professor Claire Steves, professor of aging and health.

    Source link

  • Living With Phantom Limb Pain – Amputee Coalition

    Living With Phantom Limb Pain – Amputee Coalition

    Introduction

    Phantom limb pain (PLP) refers to ongoing painful sensations that seem to be coming from the part of the limb that is no longer there. The limb is gone, but the pain is real.

    The onset of this pain most often occurs soon after surgery. It can feel like a variety of things, such as burning, twisting, itching or pressure. It is often felt in fingers or toes. It is believed that nearly 80 percent of the amputee population worldwide has experienced this kind of pain.

    The length of time this pain lasts differs from person to person. It can last from seconds to minutes, to hours, to days. For most people, PLP diminishes in both frequency and duration during the first six months, but many continue to experience some level of these sensations for years.

    People are often reluctant to tell anyone that they are experiencing PLP or phantom limb sensations, for fear that they will be considered “crazy.” However, it is important to report these pains as soon as you begin to experience them so treatment can be started.

     

    What Causes Phantom Limb Pain

    Unlike pain that is caused by trauma directly to a limb, PLP is thought to be caused by mixed signals from your brain or spinal cord. This is an important concept to consider, because the treatment for this pain has differences from the treatment you would receive for other kinds of pain. New therapies for PLP all involve trying to change the signals from your brain or spinal cord.

    As with any other kind of pain, you may find that certain activities or conditions will trigger PLP. Some of these triggers might include:

    • Touch
    • Urination or defecation
    • Sexual intercourse
    • Cigarette smoking
    • Changes in barometric pressure
    • Shingles
    • Exposure to cold.

    If you notice any particular thing triggering an episode of PLP for you, let your healthcare provider know. Some triggers can be avoided — for example, you can prevent constipation or stop smoking. For other triggers, you will just have to understand and treat accordingly. You will not be able to prevent the barometric pressure from changing, but you will be able to understand that your PLP might be more severe on days with big shifts in the weather!

     

    Treating Phantom Limb pain

    Treating PLP effectively takes a multipronged approach. Medications of several different categories in combination with non-medication treatments seem to be most effective. This combination of medication/non-medication is similar to treating other painful conditions.

    For instance, if you broke your leg, you would expect to take narcotic pain medication, at least for a while. You would also elevate your leg and put ice on it. For PLP pain management, you will take medications directed specifically toward interrupting the pain signals in your brain or spinal cord as well as using certain non-medication therapies, which also work on your brain’s interpretation of these signals.

     

    Medications for Phantom Limb Pain

    There are many different categories of medications that can decrease your pain. Each of them is thought to work on different kinds of pain sensations. Here are the categories of some of the medications you might be given:

    • Acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
    • Opioids (narcotic pain medications)
    • Antidepressants
    • Anticonvulsants
    • Beta blockers
    • Muscle relaxants

    Some of these medications work best if taken in combination with other medications and if given at certain times of the day. The antidepressants typically used work best if given at bedtime, and are often taken at the same time as the anticonvulsants. Finding the right medications — with the fewest side effects — will require you and your healthcare provider to work closely together.

     

    Non-Medication Treatments for Phantom Limb Pain

    Alternative/complementary therapies can be helpful for the reduction of PLP. Here are some of them:

    • Acupuncture
    • Mirror box therapy
    • Biofeedback
    • TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
    • Virtual reality therapy
    • Imagery
    • Music

     

    What You Need to Remember

    • Phantom limb pain/sensation is common for most people after amputation surgery. Symptoms generally improve over time.
    • Your phantom limb pain/sensation can be managed so that it does not overwhelm your life.
    • The goal of pain management is to reduce pain levels to allow you to get you back to living and enjoying life again.
    • Work closely with your healthcare team to create and maintain the pain management plan that works for you.
    • When possible, avoid things that trigger your phantom limb pain/sensation.
    • Use the Amputee Coalition Web site (amputee-coalition.org) to learn about new therapies and to let others know if a new therapy has worked for you.

     

    About the Amputee Coalition

    The Amputee Coalition is a donor-supported, nonprofit voluntary health organization serving the over 5.6 million people with limb loss and limb difference in the United States.

    For more information, please call 888-267-5669 or visit amputee-coalition.org.

     

    Acknowledgements

    This project was supported, in part, by grant number 90LLRC0001-01-00, from the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy.

    Source link

  • Say Goodbye To Belly Fat And Hello To A Fabulous You In Just 25 Days – Bye-Bye Belly Fat

    Say Goodbye To Belly Fat And Hello To A Fabulous You In Just 25 Days – Bye-Bye Belly Fat

    Product Name: Say Goodbye To Belly Fat And Hello To A Fabulous You In Just 25 Days – Bye-Bye Belly Fat

    Click here to get Say Goodbye To Belly Fat And Hello To A Fabulous You In Just 25 Days – Bye-Bye Belly Fat at discounted price while it’s still available…

    All orders are protected by SSL encryption – the highest industry standard for online security from trusted vendors.

    Say Goodbye To Belly Fat And Hello To A Fabulous You In Just 25 Days – Bye-Bye Belly Fat is backed with a 60 Day No Questions Asked Money Back Guarantee. If within the first 60 days of receipt you are not satisfied with Wake Up Lean™, you can request a refund by sending an email to the address given inside the product and we will immediately refund your entire purchase price, with no questions asked.

    (more…)