By Richard F. Harris
The most common kind of shoulder injury is rotator cuff. Almost a million suffer from it every year. If you are one of them, you need to engage in some rotator cuff repair exercises. You need to ask your doctor for an advice on this matter. It is actually more than just fixing the torn area but also strengthening it as well. If you are engage in sports, there is a greater risk for you to have this injury especially if you are doing over the head movements. Aside from sports related, your work and age play a role in having this problem.
If you experience symptoms, it is best to undergo rotator cuff repair exercises. The good news is that it wouldn't take time and you wouldn't sweat much. If you decide to exercise the muscles, you can opt to add weights. Most of the rotator cuff repair exercises involve gentle ones. In this way, you can control the intensity of the activity. Before you start, it is best that you heal first. This is true so that you wouldn't experience pain. If the pain is too much, it might be too late to start undergoing exercise.
The condition can be so painful. Any movement can actually lead to further more damage in the long run. The best idea is to take a rest. Treat the inflammation and manage it before starting any kind of exercise. There are some that are not just meant to relieve the inflammation or strengthen the muscles; it can also prevent injuries in the future.
Monday, March 29, 2010
What You Need to Know About Rotator Cuff Injuries
By Jim Batuyong
Injuries to the rotator cuff are common because of our dependence on the shoulder for the many activities we participate in. These injuries can be frustrating because of the limited movement it causes due to the pain in the shoulder. Here are a few things you need to know about rotator cuff injuries.
First, you should know that shoulder pain is extremely common and is caused by many things. Many baseball pitchers develop shoulder pain from throwing the ball but injuries can be caused anytime you overuse your shoulders. Painters, for example, have a high rate of rotator cuff injuries which can be explained by the constant up and down movement required in the job. Since the pain can cause significant problems for the individual, you must identify the cause of the problem so you will be able to get proper treatment.
The obvious and most common symptom of a rotator cuff injury is the pain it causes. Typically, the pain comes from the top of the shoulder and arm but in some cases, the pain is said to come down the outside of the arm all the way to the elbow. Weakness is also very common for people with rotator cuff injuries and the lack of ones ability to lift their arm. This will cause you to have a difficult time doing basic activities like getting dressed or reaching for something overhead.
Although it is a painful injury, most cases of rotator cuff tears can be treated without surgery. Of course, in extreme cases, the damage to the tendons may be bad enough to require surgical repair but those cases are a small minority of people requiring treatment. Most common treatments are physical therapy, anti-inflammatory pain medication and cortisone injections. Physical therapy will help strengthen the muscles around the injured tendon and help compensate for it. Anti-inflammatory pain medications and cortisone injections will help reduce inflammation and reduce the pain to the injured area.
As with any injury that lasts more than three days, you should consult your doctor for treatment. There are several surgical options for rotator cuff tears that will be dependent on the exact type of injury suffered, the surgeons preference, and the type of activities you wish to do after recovery. Before undergoing surgery, discuss other possible options for treatment. If you do not feel surgery is necessary, it would be wise to get a second opinion.
Injuries to the rotator cuff are common because of our dependence on the shoulder for the many activities we participate in. These injuries can be frustrating because of the limited movement it causes due to the pain in the shoulder. Here are a few things you need to know about rotator cuff injuries.
First, you should know that shoulder pain is extremely common and is caused by many things. Many baseball pitchers develop shoulder pain from throwing the ball but injuries can be caused anytime you overuse your shoulders. Painters, for example, have a high rate of rotator cuff injuries which can be explained by the constant up and down movement required in the job. Since the pain can cause significant problems for the individual, you must identify the cause of the problem so you will be able to get proper treatment.
The obvious and most common symptom of a rotator cuff injury is the pain it causes. Typically, the pain comes from the top of the shoulder and arm but in some cases, the pain is said to come down the outside of the arm all the way to the elbow. Weakness is also very common for people with rotator cuff injuries and the lack of ones ability to lift their arm. This will cause you to have a difficult time doing basic activities like getting dressed or reaching for something overhead.
Although it is a painful injury, most cases of rotator cuff tears can be treated without surgery. Of course, in extreme cases, the damage to the tendons may be bad enough to require surgical repair but those cases are a small minority of people requiring treatment. Most common treatments are physical therapy, anti-inflammatory pain medication and cortisone injections. Physical therapy will help strengthen the muscles around the injured tendon and help compensate for it. Anti-inflammatory pain medications and cortisone injections will help reduce inflammation and reduce the pain to the injured area.
As with any injury that lasts more than three days, you should consult your doctor for treatment. There are several surgical options for rotator cuff tears that will be dependent on the exact type of injury suffered, the surgeons preference, and the type of activities you wish to do after recovery. Before undergoing surgery, discuss other possible options for treatment. If you do not feel surgery is necessary, it would be wise to get a second opinion.
How to Treat a Sprain
By C. Dillon
With March Madness in full swing, we are seeing more and more basketball-related injuries, particularly ankle and wrist sprains. A sprain is an injury to the joint tissue that typically occur when the joint overstretches or is overloaded by a sudden twist or fall. They can also be caused by overuse in repetitive activities or sports. The sprain results in swelling, loss of movement, inability to support weight, pain, and occasional discoloration. In some instances a sprain can feel feel a lot like a fracture.
The most common location of a sprain is extremity joints, such as the ankle and wrist, but I have seen my fair share of neck sprain as well. In treating these sprains, a good acronym to remember is HI-RICE - hydrate, ibuprofen, rest, ice, compression, and elevation. The following is a summary of the steps you should take to treat a sprain:
HYDRATE. As with any illness or injury, always drink plenty of water. Water is essential for recovery.
IBUPROFEN. It will reduce swelling and help control joint inflammation. If you are an athlete you can get a special prescription from your physician for a higher dosage to help speed along your recovery.
REST. Stay off this injured joint as much as possible. You can use crutches, and in many instances, the injured area should be immobilized with a support brace or splint.
ICE. You should ice the injury as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the longer the injury will take to heal. For the first two days of the injury, you should apply ice for 20 to 40 minutes every 2 to 4 hours.
COMPRESS. To further reduce swelling, wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage. Make sure it is snug, but does not cut off circulation.
ELEVATE. Elevate the injury above the heart, which also further reduce swelling.
After three days, you should start applying heat to the sprained area which will help speed along the healing process even more.
With March Madness in full swing, we are seeing more and more basketball-related injuries, particularly ankle and wrist sprains. A sprain is an injury to the joint tissue that typically occur when the joint overstretches or is overloaded by a sudden twist or fall. They can also be caused by overuse in repetitive activities or sports. The sprain results in swelling, loss of movement, inability to support weight, pain, and occasional discoloration. In some instances a sprain can feel feel a lot like a fracture.
The most common location of a sprain is extremity joints, such as the ankle and wrist, but I have seen my fair share of neck sprain as well. In treating these sprains, a good acronym to remember is HI-RICE - hydrate, ibuprofen, rest, ice, compression, and elevation. The following is a summary of the steps you should take to treat a sprain:
HYDRATE. As with any illness or injury, always drink plenty of water. Water is essential for recovery.
IBUPROFEN. It will reduce swelling and help control joint inflammation. If you are an athlete you can get a special prescription from your physician for a higher dosage to help speed along your recovery.
REST. Stay off this injured joint as much as possible. You can use crutches, and in many instances, the injured area should be immobilized with a support brace or splint.
ICE. You should ice the injury as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the longer the injury will take to heal. For the first two days of the injury, you should apply ice for 20 to 40 minutes every 2 to 4 hours.
COMPRESS. To further reduce swelling, wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage. Make sure it is snug, but does not cut off circulation.
ELEVATE. Elevate the injury above the heart, which also further reduce swelling.
After three days, you should start applying heat to the sprained area which will help speed along the healing process even more.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Your Headaches May Be Caused by Tense Neck Muscles
By Dilbert Johnsen
Massage therapists report that neck massages are some of the most common they perform...a fact that's not really surprising when you stop to think about that area of your body. The most obvious contributor to neck pain is - as we all know - that unavoidable stress. Whenever we suffer from stress and tension, the neck can suffer most - in the form of pain and swelling - very quickly. And when that happens, the pain is felt not only in our neck, but in our head, back and shoulders as well. The good news is that a neck rub is a proven treatment for the pain and swelling brought on by stress.
Many factors can contribute to neck pain and can also be effectively treated by neck rub therapy. As mentioned, the most dominant cause of neck pain is stress, but some other common contributors include trauma/injury, muscular problems, trapped nerves or arthritis located in the neck area. Neck massages can provide relief from these contributors as well as those associated with pain from sleeping in an awkward position, carrying a heavy object or sitting too long at work. Engaging in neck massage therapy can reduce the instances of future problems.
So how do you know if the pain you are experiencing is actually neck pain? Below are some identifiers of neck pain...an indication that a neck rub is needed:
*Stiffness that affects the neck muscles;
* A radiating pain to the shoulders or between the shoulder blades;
* A one-sided or double-sided headache which produces pain in the arm, neck or head;
* Tense muscles in the neck which feel hard and sore;
* Pain at the base of the skull accompanied by weakness in the arms, shoulders and neck;
* Prickly or tingling sensation in the fingers and/or arms.
Neck massage is extremely effective in reducing stiffness and pain in the neck. So what are the most common benefits of neck massage therapy?
* Neck rubs are convenient and can basically be performed at any time and any place.
* A neck massage can be very beneficial in a short period of time.
* This type of massages delivers relief to not only the neck, but also the back, head and shoulders.
* By expanding the muscles in the neck, a neck massages doubles as an energizer for your body and leaves you feeling totally relaxed.
* It's proven to be instrumental in removing stress from your entire body.
* A neck rub can relieve knotted muscles and improve blood circulation.
In some instances, the area of your body where you experience pain may not be the actual source of it. Tightness at the base of your skull - for example - could be felt as a pain in your shoulder, upper arm or in the form of a headache. For quick and affordable relief of this type of pain, many are turning to neck massage therapy, and enjoying great results.
To reap the full benefit of a neck rub, be sure to have it done by a trained professional. And be sure to do it sooner rather than later...neck pain can quickly spread to other parts of your body if left unattended.
Massage therapists report that neck massages are some of the most common they perform...a fact that's not really surprising when you stop to think about that area of your body. The most obvious contributor to neck pain is - as we all know - that unavoidable stress. Whenever we suffer from stress and tension, the neck can suffer most - in the form of pain and swelling - very quickly. And when that happens, the pain is felt not only in our neck, but in our head, back and shoulders as well. The good news is that a neck rub is a proven treatment for the pain and swelling brought on by stress.
Many factors can contribute to neck pain and can also be effectively treated by neck rub therapy. As mentioned, the most dominant cause of neck pain is stress, but some other common contributors include trauma/injury, muscular problems, trapped nerves or arthritis located in the neck area. Neck massages can provide relief from these contributors as well as those associated with pain from sleeping in an awkward position, carrying a heavy object or sitting too long at work. Engaging in neck massage therapy can reduce the instances of future problems.
So how do you know if the pain you are experiencing is actually neck pain? Below are some identifiers of neck pain...an indication that a neck rub is needed:
*Stiffness that affects the neck muscles;
* A radiating pain to the shoulders or between the shoulder blades;
* A one-sided or double-sided headache which produces pain in the arm, neck or head;
* Tense muscles in the neck which feel hard and sore;
* Pain at the base of the skull accompanied by weakness in the arms, shoulders and neck;
* Prickly or tingling sensation in the fingers and/or arms.
Neck massage is extremely effective in reducing stiffness and pain in the neck. So what are the most common benefits of neck massage therapy?
* Neck rubs are convenient and can basically be performed at any time and any place.
* A neck massage can be very beneficial in a short period of time.
* This type of massages delivers relief to not only the neck, but also the back, head and shoulders.
* By expanding the muscles in the neck, a neck massages doubles as an energizer for your body and leaves you feeling totally relaxed.
* It's proven to be instrumental in removing stress from your entire body.
* A neck rub can relieve knotted muscles and improve blood circulation.
In some instances, the area of your body where you experience pain may not be the actual source of it. Tightness at the base of your skull - for example - could be felt as a pain in your shoulder, upper arm or in the form of a headache. For quick and affordable relief of this type of pain, many are turning to neck massage therapy, and enjoying great results.
To reap the full benefit of a neck rub, be sure to have it done by a trained professional. And be sure to do it sooner rather than later...neck pain can quickly spread to other parts of your body if left unattended.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
7 Simple Ways to Minimize the Risk of Stroke
By Paris Novianto
Most stroke occurs when blood can not reach a part of the brain. Mild stroke symptoms will usually return to normal quickly, less than one hour. Symptoms of stroke are generally more weight will cause a more typical symptoms, such as paralysis. There have been many articles that discuss about the symptoms and treatment of this disease. But here are 6 ways how to reduce the risk of this disease.
Diligent blood pressure checked
According to Prof. Stephen Davis, Director of Neurology at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, hypertension is a risk factor most easily controlled. The decline in blood was, was enough to reduce the risk of stroke by 40%. The problem is that the high blood pressure at a early level is difficult to detect, because symptoms are often not clearly visible. Because it is the only way is to do blood pressure checks on a regular basis. While the way to reduce blood pressure by losing weight, reducing salt and diligent exercise.
Stop smoking
Cigarettes causes the blood becomes thick. It can damage the arteries due to fatty deposits forming on the walls of blood vessels. Smoking may increase the risk of stroke two to three times. Benefits of quitting smoking can be felt only after 12 to 24 months.
Check cholesterol
Bad cholesterol (LDL) cholesterol, high arrives may increase the risk of stroke in two times higher. Control your cholesterol by eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Improve diet
Poor diet can cause obesity and lead to hypertension and high cholesterol can encourage stroke attack. Lower your risk by consuming enough fiber and low in saturated fat foods. Reduce salt and alcohol.
Move
People with the pattern of a sedentary life tend to have high blood pressure and obesity. Exercise can reduce the stress that was one stroke risk factors and heart disease. Perform light exercise such as walking for 30 minutes every day. If you have never previously do sport, consult with your doctor first.
Maintaining a healthy heart
Atrial fibrilation or irregular heartbeat may increase the risk of stroke 6-8 times. Atrial fibrilation occurs when the heart sends the foyer of the abnormal electrical signals to the lower chamber, causing the heart rate becomes irregular. Symptoms can include heart pounding, gasping breath, dizziness and chest pains.
People with such symptoms have an increased risk of experiencing blood clots. Immediately do the electrocardiogram examination to detect heart abnormalities. Your doctor will prescribe preventive medicine to reduce blood clotting and the risk of stroke.
Coffee
Regular coffee consumption was able to reduce the risk of stroke in women. The results of this study have been published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association. This study showed that women who drank four cups of coffee per day or more had been reduced approximately 20% risk of stroke compared with women who ate a cup of coffee a month. Drink 2 or 3 cups of coffee per day can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 19%. Meanwhile, if drank as many as five to seven times a week can reduce the risk by 12%.
But keep in mind that coffee is also associated with other types such as heart disease and osteoporosis. So you should be more careful.
Most stroke occurs when blood can not reach a part of the brain. Mild stroke symptoms will usually return to normal quickly, less than one hour. Symptoms of stroke are generally more weight will cause a more typical symptoms, such as paralysis. There have been many articles that discuss about the symptoms and treatment of this disease. But here are 6 ways how to reduce the risk of this disease.
Diligent blood pressure checked
According to Prof. Stephen Davis, Director of Neurology at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, hypertension is a risk factor most easily controlled. The decline in blood was, was enough to reduce the risk of stroke by 40%. The problem is that the high blood pressure at a early level is difficult to detect, because symptoms are often not clearly visible. Because it is the only way is to do blood pressure checks on a regular basis. While the way to reduce blood pressure by losing weight, reducing salt and diligent exercise.
Stop smoking
Cigarettes causes the blood becomes thick. It can damage the arteries due to fatty deposits forming on the walls of blood vessels. Smoking may increase the risk of stroke two to three times. Benefits of quitting smoking can be felt only after 12 to 24 months.
Check cholesterol
Bad cholesterol (LDL) cholesterol, high arrives may increase the risk of stroke in two times higher. Control your cholesterol by eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Improve diet
Poor diet can cause obesity and lead to hypertension and high cholesterol can encourage stroke attack. Lower your risk by consuming enough fiber and low in saturated fat foods. Reduce salt and alcohol.
Move
People with the pattern of a sedentary life tend to have high blood pressure and obesity. Exercise can reduce the stress that was one stroke risk factors and heart disease. Perform light exercise such as walking for 30 minutes every day. If you have never previously do sport, consult with your doctor first.
Maintaining a healthy heart
Atrial fibrilation or irregular heartbeat may increase the risk of stroke 6-8 times. Atrial fibrilation occurs when the heart sends the foyer of the abnormal electrical signals to the lower chamber, causing the heart rate becomes irregular. Symptoms can include heart pounding, gasping breath, dizziness and chest pains.
People with such symptoms have an increased risk of experiencing blood clots. Immediately do the electrocardiogram examination to detect heart abnormalities. Your doctor will prescribe preventive medicine to reduce blood clotting and the risk of stroke.
Coffee
Regular coffee consumption was able to reduce the risk of stroke in women. The results of this study have been published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association. This study showed that women who drank four cups of coffee per day or more had been reduced approximately 20% risk of stroke compared with women who ate a cup of coffee a month. Drink 2 or 3 cups of coffee per day can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 19%. Meanwhile, if drank as many as five to seven times a week can reduce the risk by 12%.
But keep in mind that coffee is also associated with other types such as heart disease and osteoporosis. So you should be more careful.
The 4 Warning Signs of a Stroke
By Catherine Van Der Weele
If someone near you was having a stroke, would you know what was happening? Would you recognise the signs? And more importantly, would you know what to do?
By the end of this article you will have the confidence to recognise the warning signs of a stroke and the knowledge will allow you to react calmly and quickly which can result in you saving the life of your loved one.
Sometimes a stroke can go by unnoticed. You will think you have had a little fall and that you just lost your balance in a clumsy moment of silliness. The truth of the incident will only come out hours later when you realise that you are still not feeling any better and there is something horribly wrong with you. If you are unsure and you are feeling a little strange after a fall, check the four symptoms below.
If you think you are witnessing a stroke but are not sure, these are the very simple steps to follow that will confirm or reassure your worries.
1) ask the man or woman who you suspect is having a stroke to raise both of their arms.
2) ask the man or woman to repeat a very simple sentence like "I am wearing a blue jersey today"
3) ask the man or woman to stick out their tongue
4) ask the man or woman to smile at you
A stoke victim cannot raise both of their arms steadily and a simple sentence will most likely become a jumble of mumbles and incoherent words. If they stick out their tongue it will most likely look twisted or fall to either the left or right, but they won't just be able to stick out their tongue straight at you.
The persons smile will look like they just came out of the dentist's office and half of their face is numb, it will be a half smile.
All four symptoms may not show, but if you can clearly see that any of the symptoms are there, don't risk it - take them to a hospital as soon as possible. You have a very short window of around three hours to get them the medical treatment they need.
A stroke can be lethal and it is better to rather be safe than just to ignore the symptoms.
Keep these four very simple steps in mind and you can very easily end up saving someone's life by just recognising the symptoms and getting them the help they need!
If someone near you was having a stroke, would you know what was happening? Would you recognise the signs? And more importantly, would you know what to do?
By the end of this article you will have the confidence to recognise the warning signs of a stroke and the knowledge will allow you to react calmly and quickly which can result in you saving the life of your loved one.
Sometimes a stroke can go by unnoticed. You will think you have had a little fall and that you just lost your balance in a clumsy moment of silliness. The truth of the incident will only come out hours later when you realise that you are still not feeling any better and there is something horribly wrong with you. If you are unsure and you are feeling a little strange after a fall, check the four symptoms below.
If you think you are witnessing a stroke but are not sure, these are the very simple steps to follow that will confirm or reassure your worries.
1) ask the man or woman who you suspect is having a stroke to raise both of their arms.
2) ask the man or woman to repeat a very simple sentence like "I am wearing a blue jersey today"
3) ask the man or woman to stick out their tongue
4) ask the man or woman to smile at you
A stoke victim cannot raise both of their arms steadily and a simple sentence will most likely become a jumble of mumbles and incoherent words. If they stick out their tongue it will most likely look twisted or fall to either the left or right, but they won't just be able to stick out their tongue straight at you.
The persons smile will look like they just came out of the dentist's office and half of their face is numb, it will be a half smile.
All four symptoms may not show, but if you can clearly see that any of the symptoms are there, don't risk it - take them to a hospital as soon as possible. You have a very short window of around three hours to get them the medical treatment they need.
A stroke can be lethal and it is better to rather be safe than just to ignore the symptoms.
Keep these four very simple steps in mind and you can very easily end up saving someone's life by just recognising the symptoms and getting them the help they need!
Understanding the Effects of Heart Disease
By Eddie Lamb
Coronary artery disease is a common term given to heart disease. It is also called arteriosclerosis. There are many causes and treatments to this silent killer. It is important to know the risks involved so you can take action before you develop problems.
You May Be Unaware You could have no idea that you have coronary artery disease. During the course of a normal day the heart works efficiently. It pumps blood through the body and life goes on. However, that blood flow can be restricted or even interrupted. Fatty deposits in the arteries can cause these problems. Gradually they build up until blood no longer flows properly to the heart. The heart cannot function and live without proper blood supply. For many years this scenario can play out - until something has to give. If you do nothing, it will eventually be your heart.
What Brings This On? What you eat and how you live plays a huge role, in the health of your heart.
Heart problems can be passed on from one generation to the next. The susceptibility to develop it may also come from your parents. This factor can put you at higher risk. If you have relatives with heart problems you will need to take extra precautions.
Tobacco is a known cause of coronary artery disease. The more you smoke the greater the chance you take. If your blood sugar is high, your circulation could be affected. Diabetics have a greater chance to develop arteriosclerosis. As you age, your risk factor for this disease will go up. However, younger people can still be at risk.
Do I Have This Condition? Unless you are having a heart attack you may not know. High blood pressure or cholesterol can mean that something is wrong, so be aware of this.
Management Doing things that can lead to a healthy lifestyle is important. That includes exercise and proper eating. If you cannot go to a gym, try walking. Taste your meals before adding salt. Read food labels before buying. See your doctor and follow advice and treatment suggestions. Have cholesterol levels and blood pressure checks routinely. Take medications that are prescribed to you.
Take the initiative and take control of your health. Learn everything you can about your condition. Internet and libraries are a good source of knowledge.
Summary There are many things you can do to treat and prevent heart disease. See your doctor and learn the basics of this silent killer. You may be unaware of its existence until it strikes.
Coronary artery disease is a common term given to heart disease. It is also called arteriosclerosis. There are many causes and treatments to this silent killer. It is important to know the risks involved so you can take action before you develop problems.
You May Be Unaware You could have no idea that you have coronary artery disease. During the course of a normal day the heart works efficiently. It pumps blood through the body and life goes on. However, that blood flow can be restricted or even interrupted. Fatty deposits in the arteries can cause these problems. Gradually they build up until blood no longer flows properly to the heart. The heart cannot function and live without proper blood supply. For many years this scenario can play out - until something has to give. If you do nothing, it will eventually be your heart.
What Brings This On? What you eat and how you live plays a huge role, in the health of your heart.
Heart problems can be passed on from one generation to the next. The susceptibility to develop it may also come from your parents. This factor can put you at higher risk. If you have relatives with heart problems you will need to take extra precautions.
Tobacco is a known cause of coronary artery disease. The more you smoke the greater the chance you take. If your blood sugar is high, your circulation could be affected. Diabetics have a greater chance to develop arteriosclerosis. As you age, your risk factor for this disease will go up. However, younger people can still be at risk.
Do I Have This Condition? Unless you are having a heart attack you may not know. High blood pressure or cholesterol can mean that something is wrong, so be aware of this.
Management Doing things that can lead to a healthy lifestyle is important. That includes exercise and proper eating. If you cannot go to a gym, try walking. Taste your meals before adding salt. Read food labels before buying. See your doctor and follow advice and treatment suggestions. Have cholesterol levels and blood pressure checks routinely. Take medications that are prescribed to you.
Take the initiative and take control of your health. Learn everything you can about your condition. Internet and libraries are a good source of knowledge.
Summary There are many things you can do to treat and prevent heart disease. See your doctor and learn the basics of this silent killer. You may be unaware of its existence until it strikes.
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