When therapy, stretching, exercise and pain medicine are not enough, individuals can arm themselves with tools to combat back pain. This article explores the some popular back pain relief supplies on the market.
Cold and hot therapy products do wonders for many types of back pain. Two of the most popular and effective are Therall and Clickits products. Therall products are filled with tiny beads that are heated in a microwave. Unlike traditional heating pads, Therall products contain tiny beads that are warmed in the microwave, producing soothing heat without cords and electricity.
In contrast to Therall products, Clickits self-generate heat. This fun, colorful novelty items offer quick warmth. One click on the little metal coin floating freely in the gel produces a soothing heat. As the Clickits slowly cools, the gel solidifies, and is ready to be boiled. Clickits return to a liquid state and are ready to reuse. Clickits can be used for either hot or cold therapy. They should not be frozen.
MHS traction sets are often utilized for back pain associated with neck pain. In case of neck pain, one places the assembled set on the rim of the door and paces the chin strap so it cups the face line. The Over-the-door traction set is helpful in relieving such problems as pinched nerves and tighten muscles. After a day leaning over a computer typing, a traction set may offer soothing relief from neck pain.
Abdominal binders and supports often provide relief to individuals with weak abdominal or core muscles. Poor core strength is a common cause of back pain. By reinforcing abdominal muscles, binders may provide the additional support needed for relief.
Binders and back supports are recommended for individuals suffering from back pain after surgery. They are also used by individuals who suffer from pain because they are required to lift excess weight. After giving birth, for example, the strain and pain of lifting a newborn can be excruciating. Reinforcing muscles with abdominal binders can provide incredible pain relief and assist individuals in the healing process.
Maternity supports are one type of abdominal support provided to women in their last trimester of pregnancy. Loving Comfort products are often recommended by physicians.
Wedges, knee separators and coccyx cushions are tools used by individuals suffering from specific types of back pain. Wedges are ideal for individuals who are bed ridden. Wedges provide additional support for individuals needing to sit in a seated position while in bed. They also are helpful in supporting one’s back while reading in bed.
Coccyx cushions, on the other hand, can relieve tail bone pain for individuals in a seated position. Often one purchases coccyx cushions to place on chairs, car seats and to alleviate pain caused by injury or excessive sitting.
Other types of seated support cushions include the lumbar support cushion. Lumbar support cushions support the lumbar area, which consists of some of the larger muscles in the middle and lower back area.
Knee separators are often utilized by individuals who have difficulty sleeping due to chronic back pain. Knee separators are used to alleviate back pain while in bed. They are particularly helpful to individuals who have difficulty sleeping on their backs. By maintaining a person’s spine alignment while sleeping, Knee separators can provide tremendous relief to the lower back area.
Raised toilet seats are often recommended for individuals after hip and knee surgery. After surgery, difficulty bending is not uncommon, and elevated toilet seats provide ease in utilizing toilet facilities. Raised toilet seats are often paired with toilet safety rails to help individuals balance.
Sock aids and reachers and other adaptive aids are important for individuals who have difficulty reaching and bending due to back pain and surgery. These items are particularly helpful to individuals after surgery or persons confined to a seated position when reaching and stretching can be challenging and painful. It is important to keep daily items in a comfortable reaching distance. When items are not in reach, these types of aids make daily chores, not only convenient, but possible.
Back pain may be temporary or chronic. Depending upon the severity, location and cause of back pain treatments vary. There are many tools available to individuals suffering from back pain. Adaptive aids, mobility tools, exercise, stretching and therapy are all important weapons in the fight for a happy healthy back and pain free life. To learn more, visit us at www.medicalhealthsupply.com.

“Varicose Veins Management & Treatment: Learn more about Treatment Methods and Compression Hose, Stockings & Socks”
 

Varicose Veins Overview
Because varicose veins occur just beneath the skin’s surface, they are often visible to the eye. These veins may look red, purple or blue. They often bulge above the skin surface. Although varicose veins are visually distracting, in most cases, they are not dangerous. Varicose veins, however, can be a sign of valvular malfunction in the deeper more critical veins. Insufficient blood flow and an inefficient circulatory system can lead to more serious complications.
Faulty Valves inside Veins cause Varicosities
Inside veins there are valves. Valves are flaps that open and close to promote blood flow toward the heart. When valves are faulty, blood pools, causing varicose veins.

Vascular Disease and Compression Therapy
Vascular surgeons and primary care physicians often prescribe compression stockings, socks and hose to treat varicosities. Graduated compression hose are designed to balance the flow of fluid into and out of limbs to increase blood flow by placing the greatest amount of compression on the areas furthest from the heart. This pressure promotes good circulation by directing blood flow toward the heart. Quite simply, the use of compression reduces fluid congestion and the backward flow caused by venous disease.

Through the use of compression hose or therapeutic stockings, varicose veins can be managed and the progression of disease is slowed. Wearing compression hose and socks is critical in the treatment of vascular disease and limb health.
Compression and Edema (swelling)
As discussed, the pressure of gradient compression acts to reverse gravitational pull and vascular insufficiencies, which can promote blood pooling and swelling (edema). Swelling in the lower extremities is a sign of vascular insufficiencies and an indication that compression may be needed. If ignored, poor circulation, swelling and insufficient blood flow can result in damage to the vascular system.

Therapeutic Hose & Tired Aching Legs
By improving circulation, the wearing of therapeutic hose can prevent both the aching and swelling associated with poor blood flow and varicosities. Not wearing appropriate support can make legs ache and feel tired. Beyond making legs feel better, graduated compression, also known as gradient compression hose, promote skin and muscle health.
Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy
Years ago, vascular surgeons commonly removed varicose veins through a process known as stripping. Today, there are numerous viable outpatient procedures available to individuals with varicose veins. Two of the most common treatments are known as Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy. Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy treatments are inexpensive and safe. They can be performed in as little as an hour and they often relieve symptoms, as well as provide cosmetic benefits to individuals suffering from vascular disease.
 

Manufacturers of Compression Products
There are many manufacturers of compression products. Bell-Horn, Jobst, Sigvaris and Juzo are among some of the largest manufacturers of compression hose stockings and socks. Each manufacturer makes quality products. Consumers tend to gravitate to one manufacturer over others because of style variations, specific features, fit or price.
Bell-Horn has some of the most cost effective products and manufactures compression hose and socks in most strengths. Jobst has one of the most expansive lines. Jobst is a leader in custom products and maternity hose. Some people prefer Juzo silver anti-microbial products and sleeves. Others like Sigvaris’s fit. Personal preferences vary.
Compression Strength
Compression hose are manufactured in various strengths. Mild, medium and severe strengths are created to treat the various levels and different types of vascular disease. The following descriptions break down compression strengths into three easy-to-remember categories.

Mild: Compression 8-15 mmHg
–Compression strengths of 8-15 mm Hg are referred to as mild strength. These retail grade strength hose provide mild relief for tired aching legs and feet.
–Some diabetic socks are designed with mild strength compressive materials to improve circulation in the lower extremities and feet.
–Diabetic socks like Jobst’s Sensi-Foot socks are uniquely designed to protect sensitive feet.
 

Medium: Compression 15-20mmHg
–Compression hose with the compression strength of 15-20mmHg are often recommended for women who are pregnant to support circulatory health and help in the prevention of varicose veins. They are also commonly used as tool in the prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis D.V.T.
–During pregnancy, additional strain on the vascular system is common in the last trimester. BSN Jobst is also a leading supplier of maternity stockings and hose.
–Medical doctors and vascular surgeons most commonly prescribe15-20 mmHg or 20-30 mmHg stockings or socks to prevent or treat embolisms, also known as blood clots. These hose are referred to as anti-embolism hose. Many medical professionals refer to these stockings as T.E.D.s. Anti-embolism hose are made by many different manufacturers.
–As embolisms can be life threatening if not treated, the wearing of anti-embolism hose or socks is particularly important to individuals who are non-ambulatory, as they help ensure healthy blood flow.
Medium Compression 20-30mmHg
Medium Compression 20-30 mmHg hose are medical strength hose designed to treat individuals with various diseases, including venous insufficiencies, peripheral vascular disease and some deep vein thromboses.

Severe Compression 30-40+
Severe strengths of compression are prescribed less frequently than other strengths. Stronger compression strengths are designed for individuals with more severe needs.
–Stronger compression socks can be challenging to don and wear. Individuals with arthritis and flexibility issues often have the most difficult time putting on compression apparel.
–Higher strength compression hose, sleeves and socks are utilized for individuals with complex needs, who are under the care and ongoing supervision of a medical professional.

Compression for Travel
Wearing compression hose can make an enormous difference in the health and well-being of individuals, who stand on their feet for long periods of time or who travel. This is particularly important to individuals who are sitting or standing motionless for extended periods of time in airports, in cars or on planes. The reason why compressive travel socks are important to individuals who travel on planes and in cars for extended periods of time to avoid swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet. The wearing of compressive socks can also minimize the risk of embolisms.

Compression After Surgery
Compression is also important to individuals who undergo surgery. The reason for this is to keep pressure on the circulatory system while patients are less mobile. In particular, when muscles are motionless, less blood flow occurs.
Another important reason to wear compression products has to do with the health of the lymphatic system. When the lymphatic and circulatory systems are damaged, compression places external pressure on areas of need to improve blood flow by gently massaging the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
An additional reason to wear compression for certain types of surgery is that compression promotes healing, by encouraging blood flow and distribution of oxygen to areas of damage and need.

Compression, Wound Care & Wraps
Compression is important in the treatment of certain types of swelling ulcers and wounds. Wound care specialists are trained to care for specific types of skin ulcers with compressive wrap products like Comprilan . Comprilan and other generic compressive wrap products are also important in the care and treatment of other conditions like lymphedema.
Donning Tools
There are many different types of donning tools. The most popular tool is the sock aid. Compression sock aids assist individuals in sliding socks onto their legs and feet. There are many different designs and types of sock assists. Each manufacturer seems to favor their own sock donning device.
Rubber gloves are also helpful in donning socks and stockings, because they can be used to gently massage compression hose into position. Jobst makes a wonderful donning glove . Dish gloves are also useful in donning compression hose. After compression is over the foot and ankle areas, many people with arthritic conditions use common dish gloves to massage stockings into position, so as to avoid pulling and potentially tearing fabric. The benefit of using common dishwashing gloves is that they are inexpensive and easy to find.
Compression adhesives are another popular item. Adhesives are water soluble substances that adhere to the leg, so that individuals who wear items like thigh high stockings can do so without wearing a garter belt. The most popular adhesive product is It-stays.

Compression Fitting
In order to assure an accurate fit, individuals should be measured for compression first thing in the morning after getting out of bed, as swelling increases throughout the course of a day. In measuring for proper fit of socks individuals need to know the circumference of their ankles, calves and sometimes shoe size. A fitter should take measurements in the fullest parts of the ankle and calf for over-the-counter brands. Length is also important. Many brands come in tall, regular and short lengths. Measurements are then compared to the sizing charts on manufacturers’boxes.

Bell-Horn and manufacturers like Jobst, Juzo and Sigvaris put easy–to-read sizing charts on the outside of their retail boxes to make it easy for individuals to determine their size or fit. Although individuals can use string and a ruler to determine measurement, accurate fitting for compression socks may require the use of a measuring tape.
Compression Fitting Tips
In order to assure an accurate fit, individuals should be measured for compression first thing in the morning after getting out of bed, as swelling increases throughout the course of a day.
Bell-Horn and manufacturers like Jobst, Juzo and Sigvaris put easy–to-read sizing charts on the outside of their retail boxes to make it easy for individuals to determine their size or fit. Medical Health Supply Inc. has easy –to-read sizing charts for Jobst and Bell-Horn online.
As mentioned, measuring for proper fit of socks requires that individuals know the circumference of their ankles, calves and sometimes shoe size. Measurements are then compared to the sizing charts on manufacturer’s boxes. If an individual does not find their measurements on any over-the-counter brand, he or she may require a specialty product.
Care and Maintenance of Compression Products
If properly maintained, compression socks hold their compression for a period of 4-6 months. One should use mild soap or washing solution like Jolastic to wash compression products and purchase one pair to wear and one pair to wash. On humid days, products may not dry overnight. It is important to wear hose every day.
It is easy to tell when compression products should be replaced when the elasticity is gone and they are no longer snug. Usually people recognize that compression hose are too easy to slip on and off. This means the elasticity may be gone and it is time for a new pair of hose.

Online Sizing Charts
To view sizing charts for Jobst and Bell-Horn products, visit Medical Health Supply. To learn more about compression, vascular disease and other products, visit  more articles and videos on the Medical Health Supply Guide at Medical Health Supply, Inc. There are training videos, articles and more.

Compression Highlights

–Compression hose help maintain circulatory system heath. They also help individuals combat the fatigue associated with tired aching legs.
–Compression hose can be attractive. They come in many styles and sizes, and last 4-6 months if properly maintained.
–All strengths of over-the-counter compression hose are provided at discounted prices online. This is important to know because most insurance companies do not cover most compression strengths. A 5% off coupon can be attained from the Medical Health Supply Guide blog.
–Always seek professional advice when purchasing medical products, services or equipment. Information contained herein is provided for training purposes only. For more information on compression products such as stockings, hose and socks consult a physician.
–Graduated compression is also discussed in the resource section of the data base at blog.medicalhealthsupply.com

Common Questions and Answers
What do I do if my size and strength is not available over-the-counter?
In some cases, compression products are specifically tailored for individuals with special needs. If over–the-counter socks are unavailable, custom products can be ordered. Purchasing, ordering and getting fitted for custom compression garments can be time consuming and expensive.
What do I do if my socks roll?
This could be an indication that your socks do not fit properly. It may also indicate that you may need a specialized product, or a compression adhesive. Socks should not roll. Each time a sock roles, it increases the compression on the area where the compression has doubled-up. This could actually hurt circulation and constrain blood flow. Socks should never role.
I have trouble putting on compression hose?
It takes a bit of practice. Place the toe of your sock onto your foot and don’t roll the edge up. Just gently massage the socks or hose up your leg. Some people crunch compression hose up like they are putting on stockings. This makes it very difficult to get them on. If you are having difficulty, you may want to order a sock aid.
What does mmHg stand for?

MmHg is a medical abbreviation for the term Millimeters of Mercury. MmHg is a standard unit of measurement used to express compression strength within the medical community.
For more questions and answers ask questions or comment at the blog at http://blog.medicalhealthsupply.com.

 Visit http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com
   to learn more about medical conditions, vascular disease and compression.  Individual needs and requirements may vary. Be sure to speak to your pharmacist, a medical professional, or a physician if you have medical concerns or questions. This presentation should not be utilized for self-diagnosis purposes and is provided for educational purposes only.
Medical Health Supply, Inc. is a New York (N.Y.) based company. Information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and should not be utilized for self-diagnosis. If you have questions or concerns about compression and varicose veins, contact a medical professional.
© 2010 Medical Health Supply, Inc. A metropolitan Rochester, New York (NY) based company.

Over 10.9 million Americans over the age of 18 suffer from Chronic Depression. It is less severe than major depression, and very treatable. Individuals, suffering from Chronic Depression, often suffer from a feeling of helplessness, hopelessness and worthlessness. Many Chronically depressed individuals, suffer from sleep disorders like insomnia and experience changes in appetite. They may also display symptoms of noticeable mental and physical sluggishness and fatigue.

Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D)

Unlike chronic forms of depression, seasonal depression usually occurs in the darker wintery months. Conservatively speaking, about 9.9 million people in North America suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.). Some individuals refer to mild cases of S.A.D. as the “winter blues” or the “doldrums”, but it is really much more. S.A.D. is a recurrent depression that occurs in the Fall and Winter months. It affects an individual’s sleep patterns, mood and general well-being. Like Chronic Depression, S.A.D. can lead to sleep disorders, changes in appetite and decreases in energy.

How Light Therapy Can Improve your Mood

Light Therapy is a natural and safe tool used to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder. Some doctors prescribe the use of light therapy in combination with medicine. Others utilize light therapy in lieu of medication for mild occurrences of S.A.D., P.M.S, and sleep disorders and more.

The benefits of light therapy include an increase in energy, elevation of mood and improved sleep.  Day Light Therapy involves regular scheduled exposure to artificial light to help regulate mood swings, sleep and a general sense of well-being. Researchers postulate that bright light works to increase levels of serotonin-a chemical that positively affects moods. Serotonin levels decrease in fall and winter months. Safe light therapy intervenes to counteract serotonin level decreases.

Medical experts recommend 20-30 minutes of exposure per day of special fluorescent light in a starting dose of 10,000 Lux. Lux is a unit of measuring illumination intensity of light. Most experts feel that these high light intensity levels are required to produce the desired therapeutic results. They also advise against concocting a self-made light apparatus to insure that light rays are properly administered with the added bonus of avoiding costly electrical hazards.

Light Therapy

Light Therapy has proven therapeutic effects. As, always consult discuss all treatments with a physician. Information contained herein is for reference purposes only. To learn more about depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder, consult a physician or a trained medical profession. Seasonal Depression and Chronic Depression should be carefully monitored, and may require several forms of treatment and intervention.

Two excellent studies on Seasonal Affective Disorder are;

1)Winter Blues: Seasonal Affective Disorder: What it is and How To Overcome It by Norman E. Rosenthal, Guildford Press, New York, 1998

2) Seasonal Affective Disorder and Beyond: Light Treatment for SAD and Non-SAD Conditions: by Raymond W. Lam, Editor, American Psychiatric Press, Washington D.D., 1998

To see or order  Light Therapy Products,  search for Day Light 1000Therapy Lamp Item: DL930  at:   www.medicalhealthsupply.com

Arthritis:

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints. About one in seven Americans suffer from one form of arthritis or another. There are over one-hundred different types of arthritis, that can afflict any number of joints throughout the body in various degrees. There is no one treatment or solution.

Arthritis treatments vary depending on the lifestyles and casuals’ of Arthritic conditions. In some cases, individuals suffering from arthritis, feel stiff and sore and have limited flexibility. Many individuals suffering from mild cases of Arthritis treat the condition with over-the-counter medication and slight lifestyle alterations. In other instances, Arthritis is deforming, crippling and affects every aspect of an individual’s daily functioning.

The three common forms of arthritis are 1) Rheumatoid Arthritis 2) Osteoarthritis and 3)Gout. The casuals’ of arthritis vary from autoimmune deficiencies, to bone injuries, infections, diet and common “wear and tear”. One major lifestyle cause of arthritis is years of cartilage wearing due to the repetition of tasks.

Because of the vastness of the disease and the number of different joints that can be affected, there are braces, arthritis supports and treatments for just about every major joint in the body. Therall Products offer heat pads to relieve stiffness. These pads can be thrown into a microwave to heat up to relieve aches and pains. Clickit created pads with can be utilized for both hot and cold therapy. At times, individuals prefer cold therapy to relieve inflammation, pain and suffering.

There is no cure for most forms of Arthritis. In most cases, the disease is progressive. Diet, medicine ,exercise and daily stretching can help relieve the effects of Arthritis pain. In severe cases of Arthritis, adaptive aids, braces and mobility equipment like;walkers, canes, wheel chairs and specialty equipment are required. These tools enable individuals, suffering from arthritis , to maintain mobility and live a happy, independent, quality life.

There is new information and developments in the study of Arthritis, on an ongoing basis. The good news about Arthritis, is that there are many support groups, organizations, medicines and aids that can help individuals with the challenges that Arthritis may present. Sometimes a simple warm bath can relieve stiffness and joint soreness, other times a dose of simple medication can eradicate symptoms.

For more information on Arthritis and its causes and symptoms, consult a medical professional or your physician. For information pertaining to products and services, one may consult numerous internet sources including product information. Some of these resources are listed in the resource section of the database at medicalhealthsupply.com.

Alzheimer’s/ Dementia:

Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder that is often associated with age. It is believed that over a half of a million Americans show symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia in their 30s, 40, or 50s. Symptoms such as; forgetfulness, confusion and diminished cognitive brain function are often early symptoms.

Alzheimer’s disease is progressive. In its early stages, individuals can often function normally with little help or assistance. In its later stages, individuals are often non-ambulatory and totally disabled. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are medications that can help alleviate symptoms.

It is important that caregivers have a strong system of support when caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Friends, family and a loving supporting environment are critical to ensuring the health and well-being of caregivers. In later stages, caregivers will need more support, equipment and supplies. They need a network of supportive professionals and often depend on palliative, or hospice care in the final progressions.

There are many Alzheimer’s support groups and services. They can be accessed online, and are available in just about every village and community. Because Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, the literature and research on this topic are plentiful. There is also a great deal of information available in the resource section of www.medicalhealthsupply.com

Alzheimers & Dementia:  The complete excerpt of this article can be found in Search by Medical Condition section at medicalhealthsupply.com.