If you are looking for an exercise that brings both muscle toning, cardio workout, and relaxation, yoga may just be for you! This old world tradition has turned into a new world craze, for all ages.
On this path to enlightenment that winds back 5,000 years in its native India, this form of fitness has suddenly become so hot, so cool, so very this minute. It's the exercise meditation for the new millennium, one that doesn't so much pump you up as bliss you out
It now straddles the continent - from Hollywood, where $20 million-a-picture actors queue for a session with their guru du jour, to Washington, where, in the gym of the Supreme Court, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and 15 others faithfully take their class each Tuesday morning. Everywhere else, Americans rush from their high-pressure jobs and tune in to the authoritatively mellow voice of an instructor, gently urging them to solder a union (the literal translation of the Sanskrit word yoga) between mind and body.
These Type A strivers want to become Type B seekers, to lose their blues in an asana (pose), to graduate from distress to de-stress. Fifteen million Americans include some form of it in their fitness regimen - twice as many as did five years ago; 75% of all U.S. health clubs offer yoga classes.
Many in those classes are looking not inward but behind. Oprah Winfrey, arbiter of moral and literary betterment for millions of American women, devoted a whole show to the benefits of yoga earlier this month.
Everywhere you look, it is there. Testimonials from everyday yogis and yoginis can be found just about anywhere.
Namaste, as your instructor says at the end of a session: the divine in me bows to the divine in you. Is yoga more than the power of positive breathing?
Can it, say, cure cancer? Fend off heart attacks?
Rejuvenate post-menopausal women? Just as important for its application by mainstream doctors, can its presumed benefits be measured by conventional medical standards?
Is yoga, in other words, a science? By even asking the question, we provoke a clash of two powerful cultures, two very different ways of looking at the world.
The Indian tradition develops metaphors and ways of describing the body (life forces, energy centers) as it is experienced, from the inside out. The Western tradition looks at the body from the outside in, peeling it back one layer at a time, believing only what it can see, measure and prove in randomized, double-blind tests.
The East treats the person; the West treats the disease. It is more holistic-it's interested in the integration of body, breath and mind.
The few controlled studies that have been done offer cause for hope. A 1990 study of patients who had coronary heart disease indicated that a regimen of aerobic exercise and stress reduction, including yoga, combined with a low-fat vegetarian diet, stabilized and in some cases reversed arterial blockage.
The author Dr. Dean Ornish is in the midst of a study involving men with prostate cancer. Can diet, yoga and meditation affect the progress of this disease?
So far, Ornish will say only that the data are encouraging. To the skeptic, all evidence is anecdotal.
But some anecdotes are more than encouraging; they are inspiring. A series of exercises as old as the Sphinx could prove to be the medical miracle of tomorrow - or just wishful thinking from the millions who have embraced yoga in a bit more than a generation.
This form of exercise and enlightenment was little known in the U.S. - perhaps only as an enthusiasm of Allen Ginsberg, Jack Keroua, and other icons of the Beat Generation - when the Beatles and Mia Farrow journeyed to India to sit at the feet of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in 1968.
Since then, yoga has endured more evolutions of popular consciousness than a morphing movie monster. First, it signaled spiritual cleansing and rebirth, a nontoxic way to get high.
Then it was seen as a kind of preventive medicine that helped manage and reduce stress. At each stage, the most persuasive advocates were movie idols and rock stars - salesmen, by example, of countless beguiling or corrosive fashions.
If they could make cocaine and tattoos fashionable, perhaps they could goad the masses toward physical and spiritual enlightenment. Today it is practiced by so many stars with whom audiences are on a first-name basis - Madonna, Julia, Meg, Ricky, Michelle, Gwyneth, Sting - that it would be shorter work to list the actors who don't assume the asana.
If you want to jump on the bandwagon, check out some DVD's, or take a class at your local gym. You may become addicted too!
Terry Daniels is an accomplished expert in health and fitness. He recommends (http://www.proform.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Category_-1_14201_16002_29510_Y) as the best site to find the best ellipticals.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Living with Insulin Pumps
In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas no longer releases insulin, so the glucose keeps circulating in the blood with no way out. Managing diabetes is a balancing act between insulin and blood glucose.
Finding the right amount of insulin to keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible is the key to good control. It may take a while to become comfortable with injecting.
Insulin shock occurs when the level of your blood sugar drops quickly and leads to unconsciousness. It is a severe form of hypoglycemia and can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.
In those with type 1 diabetes, shock is almost always related to a recent injection. The person may have been injected with too much or had an insufficient amount of food to balance the effects of the insulin taken.
To prevent shock you must learn how your body shows symptoms of hypoglycemia. The most common early warning symptoms are feeling confused, tired, hungry shaky, sweaty, and anxious.
If these symptoms are left untreated, it could lead to shock and result in seizures, coma or even death. But prompt treatment of symptoms can prevent insulin shock.
Most people use pumps to help them control their diabetes. The pump is used by tens of thousands of people of all ages.
Many studies have shown improved glucose management outcomes for those using one. It allows for more flexibility in lifestyle and the potential to even out the wide blood sugar fluctuations that are often experienced when injecting.
A pump eliminates the need for injections using a syringe. Instead of multiple injections every day, you only need to reinsert the needle once every two to three days.
You may be able to level out many blood glucose swings. Because you receive a continuous low dosage of insulin 24 hours a day, you are not prone to the rapid drop in glucose levels that can occur after injections with fast-acting insulin.
Pumps increase the flexibility of your diabetes management. If your schedule causes you to eat at odd times or miss a meal occasionally, you can more easily adjust to these circumstances with this device.
Because pumps use fast-acting insulin, extra can be given to cover a meal with the simple push of a button. The device can reduce low blood sugar reactions.
There are greater risks of hypoglycemia with injections because you must take larger doses of at one time. The continuous flow of insulin a pump provides reduces the risk of a low, which is especially helpful at night when injecting too much could increase the risk of a low reaction during sleep.
The small devices were originally used by people with type 1 diabetes to help them achieve near-normal blood glucose levels while decreasing the incidences of hypoglycemia. Keeping tight control of blood sugar levels near-normal is a balancing act, with type 1 diabetes, because of the danger of bringing blood sugar too low, creating a hypoglycemic crisis.
The device helps keep the levels more constant with less fluctuation, and that reduces the risks. Flexibility is one of the major benefits of the pump.
People like the fact that they can live life more on their own terms. They don't have to plan their day around meal plans and injections.
It offers more choices regarding what you eat and when you eat it. The device especially helps kids and adolescents feel like they "fit in" with their classmates.
Your health care provider can help you decide about a device since there is a lot to learn. A basal rate will be determined by your provider based on your individual needs.
You'll learn how to figure out bolus doses and when to give them. Preventing ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia, formulas for sports and exercise, how to care for insertion sites and how to use the device are all things that should be addressed at the start.
Most people like the pump and feel that improvement in quality of life far outweighs the time and effort needed to effectively make the switch to the device. Although many insurance companies cover some or all of the cost of the pump, some cover more than others.
Jack R. Landry has worked as a nurse practitioner for the last 16 years. He has worked in local clinics and the ER and recommends (http://livingwithoutdisease.com) for high blood pressure cure.
Finding the right amount of insulin to keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible is the key to good control. It may take a while to become comfortable with injecting.
Insulin shock occurs when the level of your blood sugar drops quickly and leads to unconsciousness. It is a severe form of hypoglycemia and can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.
In those with type 1 diabetes, shock is almost always related to a recent injection. The person may have been injected with too much or had an insufficient amount of food to balance the effects of the insulin taken.
To prevent shock you must learn how your body shows symptoms of hypoglycemia. The most common early warning symptoms are feeling confused, tired, hungry shaky, sweaty, and anxious.
If these symptoms are left untreated, it could lead to shock and result in seizures, coma or even death. But prompt treatment of symptoms can prevent insulin shock.
Most people use pumps to help them control their diabetes. The pump is used by tens of thousands of people of all ages.
Many studies have shown improved glucose management outcomes for those using one. It allows for more flexibility in lifestyle and the potential to even out the wide blood sugar fluctuations that are often experienced when injecting.
A pump eliminates the need for injections using a syringe. Instead of multiple injections every day, you only need to reinsert the needle once every two to three days.
You may be able to level out many blood glucose swings. Because you receive a continuous low dosage of insulin 24 hours a day, you are not prone to the rapid drop in glucose levels that can occur after injections with fast-acting insulin.
Pumps increase the flexibility of your diabetes management. If your schedule causes you to eat at odd times or miss a meal occasionally, you can more easily adjust to these circumstances with this device.
Because pumps use fast-acting insulin, extra can be given to cover a meal with the simple push of a button. The device can reduce low blood sugar reactions.
There are greater risks of hypoglycemia with injections because you must take larger doses of at one time. The continuous flow of insulin a pump provides reduces the risk of a low, which is especially helpful at night when injecting too much could increase the risk of a low reaction during sleep.
The small devices were originally used by people with type 1 diabetes to help them achieve near-normal blood glucose levels while decreasing the incidences of hypoglycemia. Keeping tight control of blood sugar levels near-normal is a balancing act, with type 1 diabetes, because of the danger of bringing blood sugar too low, creating a hypoglycemic crisis.
The device helps keep the levels more constant with less fluctuation, and that reduces the risks. Flexibility is one of the major benefits of the pump.
People like the fact that they can live life more on their own terms. They don't have to plan their day around meal plans and injections.
It offers more choices regarding what you eat and when you eat it. The device especially helps kids and adolescents feel like they "fit in" with their classmates.
Your health care provider can help you decide about a device since there is a lot to learn. A basal rate will be determined by your provider based on your individual needs.
You'll learn how to figure out bolus doses and when to give them. Preventing ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia, formulas for sports and exercise, how to care for insertion sites and how to use the device are all things that should be addressed at the start.
Most people like the pump and feel that improvement in quality of life far outweighs the time and effort needed to effectively make the switch to the device. Although many insurance companies cover some or all of the cost of the pump, some cover more than others.
Jack R. Landry has worked as a nurse practitioner for the last 16 years. He has worked in local clinics and the ER and recommends (http://livingwithoutdisease.com) for high blood pressure cure.
Properly Caring for Your Teeth
Having the ability to take care of your teeth is probably something that you have taken for granted. Before the technology of tooth care emerged there were many painful processes that people would participate in.
First, as people aged their teeth would start to rot. This painful process often resulted in individuals just having their teeth pulled but when the infection reached their jaw it was excruciatingly painful for a long period of time.
When people finally started to realize that it was important to clean their teeth they came up with many different methods of doing so. The next time that you finish brushing your teeth and walk away with that minty fresh taste in your mouth remember these methods.
Some of the ingredients that people would use to clean their teeth were ground-up chalk or charcoal, lemon juice, ashes or even honey and tobacco mixed together. Obviously many of these methods did not do the job as efficiently as our modern day toothpaste.
It was not until almost one hundred years ago that someone came up with the idea of a cream to clean teeth. Eventually, the scientists that were working with this material decided that it should be flavored a minty flavor.
It was not until World War II that the idea of brushing your teeth started to become popular. The tooth cream was put into a tube so that individuals could squeeze it out onto the toothbrush and the army handed out brushes and paste to all of the soldiers.
The army taught the soldiers that they needed to start brushing their teeth twice a day. The tubes that the army were giving out back then were made of a metal material making it much easier to squeeze than the plastic tubes of today.
Now when you go to the grocery store to buy your toothpaste you will be able to choose from a wide variety of choices. There are many different flavors and different characteristics to choose from when you are choosing.
Some toothpaste is made specifically for people that have problems with sensitivity in their teeth. If you feel pain in your mouth when you are eating things that are sweet, hot or even cold you may want to try one of these toothpastes.
You should also make sure that you are buying toothpaste that has fluoride in it. There are a lot of people that do not realize their water does not come with fluoride and the fluoride in toothpaste will help fortify and strengthen your teeth.
When you are brushing your teeth you should make sure that you are not overloading your toothbrush with toothpaste. You only need a small amount of toothpaste to make sure that you can clean all throughout your mouth.
As you finish brushing you want to make sure that you are rinsing and spitting out the toothpaste that you have in your mouth. It is not healthy for your body to be swallowing the toothpaste that is left in your mouth.
You have to make sure that you are also taking the time to brush all of your teeth. It is easy to miss the teeth in the back of your mouth when you are trying to brush your teeth quickly and just get the job done.
It may be useful if you take the time to time your brushing each time that you brush. Two minutes will enable you to give thirty seconds to all of the major parts of your mouth to make sure that you do not miss anything.
You should also make sure that you are taking care of any problems in your mouth as soon as they occur. There are a lot of people that do not understand the necessity of going to the dentist on a regular basis.
It is important that you are having your teeth checked by a professional and you are having any problems fixed as they occur. When you let a problem go for a long time you may end up needing surgery on your mouth.
If you let it get to this point you will have to make sure you understand the importance of your surgery. You should meet with your oral surgeon before your surgery to make sure you understand exactly what is going to happen in the procedure.
You may also want to talk to a professional about what you can do in the future to make sure you prevent having to get surgeries in the future.
Ignacio Lopez has worked in oral surgery for 10 years. He recommends (http://www.oralsurgeonutah.com) for a great oral surgeon in Utah.
First, as people aged their teeth would start to rot. This painful process often resulted in individuals just having their teeth pulled but when the infection reached their jaw it was excruciatingly painful for a long period of time.
When people finally started to realize that it was important to clean their teeth they came up with many different methods of doing so. The next time that you finish brushing your teeth and walk away with that minty fresh taste in your mouth remember these methods.
Some of the ingredients that people would use to clean their teeth were ground-up chalk or charcoal, lemon juice, ashes or even honey and tobacco mixed together. Obviously many of these methods did not do the job as efficiently as our modern day toothpaste.
It was not until almost one hundred years ago that someone came up with the idea of a cream to clean teeth. Eventually, the scientists that were working with this material decided that it should be flavored a minty flavor.
It was not until World War II that the idea of brushing your teeth started to become popular. The tooth cream was put into a tube so that individuals could squeeze it out onto the toothbrush and the army handed out brushes and paste to all of the soldiers.
The army taught the soldiers that they needed to start brushing their teeth twice a day. The tubes that the army were giving out back then were made of a metal material making it much easier to squeeze than the plastic tubes of today.
Now when you go to the grocery store to buy your toothpaste you will be able to choose from a wide variety of choices. There are many different flavors and different characteristics to choose from when you are choosing.
Some toothpaste is made specifically for people that have problems with sensitivity in their teeth. If you feel pain in your mouth when you are eating things that are sweet, hot or even cold you may want to try one of these toothpastes.
You should also make sure that you are buying toothpaste that has fluoride in it. There are a lot of people that do not realize their water does not come with fluoride and the fluoride in toothpaste will help fortify and strengthen your teeth.
When you are brushing your teeth you should make sure that you are not overloading your toothbrush with toothpaste. You only need a small amount of toothpaste to make sure that you can clean all throughout your mouth.
As you finish brushing you want to make sure that you are rinsing and spitting out the toothpaste that you have in your mouth. It is not healthy for your body to be swallowing the toothpaste that is left in your mouth.
You have to make sure that you are also taking the time to brush all of your teeth. It is easy to miss the teeth in the back of your mouth when you are trying to brush your teeth quickly and just get the job done.
It may be useful if you take the time to time your brushing each time that you brush. Two minutes will enable you to give thirty seconds to all of the major parts of your mouth to make sure that you do not miss anything.
You should also make sure that you are taking care of any problems in your mouth as soon as they occur. There are a lot of people that do not understand the necessity of going to the dentist on a regular basis.
It is important that you are having your teeth checked by a professional and you are having any problems fixed as they occur. When you let a problem go for a long time you may end up needing surgery on your mouth.
If you let it get to this point you will have to make sure you understand the importance of your surgery. You should meet with your oral surgeon before your surgery to make sure you understand exactly what is going to happen in the procedure.
You may also want to talk to a professional about what you can do in the future to make sure you prevent having to get surgeries in the future.
Ignacio Lopez has worked in oral surgery for 10 years. He recommends (http://www.oralsurgeonutah.com) for a great oral surgeon in Utah.
How Effective is Vasectomy In Birth Control
In response to the call for birth control needs, medical experts came up with different methods in such a way that sexual intercourse will not be affected.
The use of condom has been massive in the male population; however, the satisfaction is not guaranteed and there were also cases of accidental formation of birth. Up to this time, the only permanent method for birth control is a vasectomy.
For sterilization purposes, the male mammal's vasa deferentia are cut through a surgical operation called Vasectomy. This method is considered to be the most effective and permanent way to control birth.
Though the effect of vasectomy is permanent, and satisfaction from sexual intercourse is not affected, many younger males still hesitate to undergo this surgical operation for two main reasons. The first reason is they are still planning to have babies in the future and the second reason is that they are afraid of the negative effects of this birth control method. This is the reason why males who undergo this birth control method are those in the later 30's and early 40's.
While vasectomy is considered as a very good way for controlling birth, complications cannot be avoided. Accordingly, PVPS or post-vasectomy pain syndrome is one of the complications a male who underwent the surgery is most likely to have. This includes genital pain with different intensity and the suffering may last for a very long time or even life time. Another complication associated with this birth control surgery is dementia.
Although not yet totally proven by experts, a small percentage of male who had this surgical operation are found to have developed dementia. The link between these two is not yet given much research and this phenomenon starts to be a favorite subject for both mental experts and doctors specializing in birth and birth control.
Though complications associated with vasectomy were noted in the past, more than half of those who had this still attest that they are quite satisfied with the result. Decision to undergo or to have this birth control method is a personal matter between the couple.
Before deciding to undergo this permanent birth control, talk with your spouse and you might as well see the doctor together. Listen to what the doctor is going to say about the effects, the outcomes, and the complications. The doctor surely has some measures to advice in order to prevent the complications from arising.
John Limbocker is an Internet marketer for urologymedicalgroup.com. For more details and information about Vasectomy, simply go to www.urologymedicalgroup.com
The use of condom has been massive in the male population; however, the satisfaction is not guaranteed and there were also cases of accidental formation of birth. Up to this time, the only permanent method for birth control is a vasectomy.
For sterilization purposes, the male mammal's vasa deferentia are cut through a surgical operation called Vasectomy. This method is considered to be the most effective and permanent way to control birth.
Though the effect of vasectomy is permanent, and satisfaction from sexual intercourse is not affected, many younger males still hesitate to undergo this surgical operation for two main reasons. The first reason is they are still planning to have babies in the future and the second reason is that they are afraid of the negative effects of this birth control method. This is the reason why males who undergo this birth control method are those in the later 30's and early 40's.
While vasectomy is considered as a very good way for controlling birth, complications cannot be avoided. Accordingly, PVPS or post-vasectomy pain syndrome is one of the complications a male who underwent the surgery is most likely to have. This includes genital pain with different intensity and the suffering may last for a very long time or even life time. Another complication associated with this birth control surgery is dementia.
Although not yet totally proven by experts, a small percentage of male who had this surgical operation are found to have developed dementia. The link between these two is not yet given much research and this phenomenon starts to be a favorite subject for both mental experts and doctors specializing in birth and birth control.
Though complications associated with vasectomy were noted in the past, more than half of those who had this still attest that they are quite satisfied with the result. Decision to undergo or to have this birth control method is a personal matter between the couple.
Before deciding to undergo this permanent birth control, talk with your spouse and you might as well see the doctor together. Listen to what the doctor is going to say about the effects, the outcomes, and the complications. The doctor surely has some measures to advice in order to prevent the complications from arising.
John Limbocker is an Internet marketer for urologymedicalgroup.com. For more details and information about Vasectomy, simply go to www.urologymedicalgroup.com
Upper Back Pain Treatment
Upper back conditions are not as common as lower back conditions. When problems appear in the upper part of your back, it is usually more serious than a muscle strain or herniated disc. The upper portion of your back is different from the lower part of your back because instead of being flexible and mobile, the upper back is supposed to be strong and provide stability for the body.
This is the part of the body that gives us the strength to stand and walk. The upper part of your back is not very mobile and any bone breakdown is rare; having the strength to stand up protects the muscles and organs in the chest. Most upper back issues are a result of irritated muscles or joint dysfunction.
Mild forms of pain in the upper portion of your back can result from years of bad posture. As the technology age has taken off, more people who work at desks all day are complaining of upper back problems. Slouching in a desk puts great strain on our backs. As with any injury, upper back pain can also be the result of an accident or trauma, but the most common causes of pain stem from the muscles and joints.
Muscular irritation is caused by either the overuse of the muscles in the shoulder area or by a complete lack of use. Not using the muscles in the shoulders and upper back causes them to weaken, resulting in them not being able to support the body as well, causing a strain and pain. Overuse of the muscles is a common problem for athletes or someone with a job that requires repetitive motion affecting the back muscles.
The muscles will get overworked and irritated, causing swelling that results in a back pain that is sometimes very hard to treat. Physical therapists recommend gentle exercise and abundant stretching as the best way to relieve and treat upper back pain. Rest if the exercise becomes painful. Medication may help to bring down the swelling.
Joint dysfunctions focus on the area where the ribs attach to the upper spine.
These two joints are responsible for holding the ribs in place; if they are flawed in any way, upper back pain will result. In addition to pain medication and rest, treatments will include visiting a chiropractor and physical therapist. They will manually manipulate the joints to try and move the joint and relieve your pain.
Stretching is an essential part of recovery from any upper back pain. An exercise and stretching routine at home will help maintain overall back strength. Aerobic exercise is very important as it will help a patient lose or maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight, especially weight that sits in the stomach area, will pull the upper body forward, putting strain on the back muscles.
Upper back pain is usually more serious than lower back pain. If during pregnancy you experience pain in the upper part of your back, it is likely just a result of the additional weight. Rest and speak with a doctor if the pain is unbearable. Upper back pain is typically moderate to serious and requires consulting with a doctor.
Discover effective back pain exercises that will help you to control your back pain once and for all. You will see the advantages of using these tried and tested back pain exercises to give you the back pain relief that you are looking for. Go to: www.AboutBackPainRelief.com
This is the part of the body that gives us the strength to stand and walk. The upper part of your back is not very mobile and any bone breakdown is rare; having the strength to stand up protects the muscles and organs in the chest. Most upper back issues are a result of irritated muscles or joint dysfunction.
Mild forms of pain in the upper portion of your back can result from years of bad posture. As the technology age has taken off, more people who work at desks all day are complaining of upper back problems. Slouching in a desk puts great strain on our backs. As with any injury, upper back pain can also be the result of an accident or trauma, but the most common causes of pain stem from the muscles and joints.
Muscular irritation is caused by either the overuse of the muscles in the shoulder area or by a complete lack of use. Not using the muscles in the shoulders and upper back causes them to weaken, resulting in them not being able to support the body as well, causing a strain and pain. Overuse of the muscles is a common problem for athletes or someone with a job that requires repetitive motion affecting the back muscles.
The muscles will get overworked and irritated, causing swelling that results in a back pain that is sometimes very hard to treat. Physical therapists recommend gentle exercise and abundant stretching as the best way to relieve and treat upper back pain. Rest if the exercise becomes painful. Medication may help to bring down the swelling.
Joint dysfunctions focus on the area where the ribs attach to the upper spine.
These two joints are responsible for holding the ribs in place; if they are flawed in any way, upper back pain will result. In addition to pain medication and rest, treatments will include visiting a chiropractor and physical therapist. They will manually manipulate the joints to try and move the joint and relieve your pain.
Stretching is an essential part of recovery from any upper back pain. An exercise and stretching routine at home will help maintain overall back strength. Aerobic exercise is very important as it will help a patient lose or maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight, especially weight that sits in the stomach area, will pull the upper body forward, putting strain on the back muscles.
Upper back pain is usually more serious than lower back pain. If during pregnancy you experience pain in the upper part of your back, it is likely just a result of the additional weight. Rest and speak with a doctor if the pain is unbearable. Upper back pain is typically moderate to serious and requires consulting with a doctor.
Discover effective back pain exercises that will help you to control your back pain once and for all. You will see the advantages of using these tried and tested back pain exercises to give you the back pain relief that you are looking for. Go to: www.AboutBackPainRelief.com
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Exercising Your Spine and Back Safely While Pregnant
If you are pregnant, your back can hurt terribly. However, you can exercise your spine and your back safely so that you can find relief.
While it is not safe for a pregnant woman to begin a totally new exercise routine, it is perfectly safe and often necessary to utilize some new, low-intensity back exercises during pregnancy. The weight from the uterus pulls the lumbar spine forward, straining weak muscles in the middle, upper and lower back.
Strengthening the muscles that surround the spine with prenatal-safe exercises will lessen spinal discomfort and tightness. "Cats and Cows" are a set of yoga poses that will strengthen and stretch your back and abs.
Start in an all-fours position on an even, padded surface. If your wrists hurt or tingle because of carpal tunnel, this exercise can be done on your elbows and knees instead of your hands and knees.
Once you are on all-fours, begin to alternately arch and round your spine. Inhale as you lift your hips and look up at the ceiling while flexing your back (cow), and then exhale as you tuck your head and your tailbone under while flexing your abs (cat).
Imagine pushing your belly toward the floor, and then suck your stomach inward as you round your spine. This is also known as a pelvic tilt or pelvic rock, and this movement will move baby into the correct presentation for birth during the latter weeks of pregnancy.
Do anywhere from 5 to 15 repetitions (reps) as often as you like. This is a therapeutic exercise.
Alternating Half-Locust is also done on all-fours. Sometime during the thirteenth to seventeenth week of pregnancy, mom will no longer feel comfortable on her stomach because of the growing "baby bump."
This exercise is an excellent alternative to the Pilates exercises normally done on the tummy. Keep your back level and your abs gently pulled upward against your spine while you raise your right arm straight out in front of you and your left leg straight out behind you.
Keep your neck neutral, and don't raise your limbs any higher than your hips and shoulders. Think about length, not height.
Imagine you are being pulled in two opposite directions like the rope in a game of tug-of-war. Breathe out as you lift your limbs, tightening your abs; breathe in as you lower your limbs.
Start with four on each side (right arm, left leg ... left arm, right leg) and work up to 15 reps every other day.
The bent dumbbell row will strengthen both the upper and lower back. When lifting weights, it is especially crucial for pregnant women to breathe deeply.
Holding your breath is known as the "Valsava Maneuver," and it will raise your blood pressure. Unless you are accustomed to heavier weights, use small dumbbells, starting with one to five pounds in each hand.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, feeling a sense of sturdiness. Soften the knees so they are just a little bent and not locked.
Lean forward, hinging at the hips, letting your arms hang down, sticking out your chest, and pulling your shoulder-blades together. You should look like you are ready to swing a golf club.
Breathe out as you lift your elbows up behind you, like you are rowing. Your wrists should graze your belly on both sides.
Inhale as you lower the dumbbells until your arms are straight again. Focus on the image of squishing a ripe banana between your shoulder blades, because that is where you want to feel this exercise.
The shoulder bridge is done on your back with your feet flat on the ground. Press your arms gently into the floor, palms down at your sides, while you lift your hips as high into the air as you can.
You can do simple up-and-down motions, you can pulse your hips at the top for a few counts, and you could also try balancing on just one foot. Squeeze a few Kegels in, too, by pinching a piece of paper between your knees while your hips are lifted.
With these exercises you can ensure that your back will stay strong and feeling well. Start today!
Ronald Pedactor has been involved with medicine for over 20 years. He specializes in spinal recovery medicine and recommends (http://www.utahspineanddisc.com) for your back needs.
While it is not safe for a pregnant woman to begin a totally new exercise routine, it is perfectly safe and often necessary to utilize some new, low-intensity back exercises during pregnancy. The weight from the uterus pulls the lumbar spine forward, straining weak muscles in the middle, upper and lower back.
Strengthening the muscles that surround the spine with prenatal-safe exercises will lessen spinal discomfort and tightness. "Cats and Cows" are a set of yoga poses that will strengthen and stretch your back and abs.
Start in an all-fours position on an even, padded surface. If your wrists hurt or tingle because of carpal tunnel, this exercise can be done on your elbows and knees instead of your hands and knees.
Once you are on all-fours, begin to alternately arch and round your spine. Inhale as you lift your hips and look up at the ceiling while flexing your back (cow), and then exhale as you tuck your head and your tailbone under while flexing your abs (cat).
Imagine pushing your belly toward the floor, and then suck your stomach inward as you round your spine. This is also known as a pelvic tilt or pelvic rock, and this movement will move baby into the correct presentation for birth during the latter weeks of pregnancy.
Do anywhere from 5 to 15 repetitions (reps) as often as you like. This is a therapeutic exercise.
Alternating Half-Locust is also done on all-fours. Sometime during the thirteenth to seventeenth week of pregnancy, mom will no longer feel comfortable on her stomach because of the growing "baby bump."
This exercise is an excellent alternative to the Pilates exercises normally done on the tummy. Keep your back level and your abs gently pulled upward against your spine while you raise your right arm straight out in front of you and your left leg straight out behind you.
Keep your neck neutral, and don't raise your limbs any higher than your hips and shoulders. Think about length, not height.
Imagine you are being pulled in two opposite directions like the rope in a game of tug-of-war. Breathe out as you lift your limbs, tightening your abs; breathe in as you lower your limbs.
Start with four on each side (right arm, left leg ... left arm, right leg) and work up to 15 reps every other day.
The bent dumbbell row will strengthen both the upper and lower back. When lifting weights, it is especially crucial for pregnant women to breathe deeply.
Holding your breath is known as the "Valsava Maneuver," and it will raise your blood pressure. Unless you are accustomed to heavier weights, use small dumbbells, starting with one to five pounds in each hand.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, feeling a sense of sturdiness. Soften the knees so they are just a little bent and not locked.
Lean forward, hinging at the hips, letting your arms hang down, sticking out your chest, and pulling your shoulder-blades together. You should look like you are ready to swing a golf club.
Breathe out as you lift your elbows up behind you, like you are rowing. Your wrists should graze your belly on both sides.
Inhale as you lower the dumbbells until your arms are straight again. Focus on the image of squishing a ripe banana between your shoulder blades, because that is where you want to feel this exercise.
The shoulder bridge is done on your back with your feet flat on the ground. Press your arms gently into the floor, palms down at your sides, while you lift your hips as high into the air as you can.
You can do simple up-and-down motions, you can pulse your hips at the top for a few counts, and you could also try balancing on just one foot. Squeeze a few Kegels in, too, by pinching a piece of paper between your knees while your hips are lifted.
With these exercises you can ensure that your back will stay strong and feeling well. Start today!
Ronald Pedactor has been involved with medicine for over 20 years. He specializes in spinal recovery medicine and recommends (http://www.utahspineanddisc.com) for your back needs.
Using Yoga to Fix Back and Joint Issues
When you suffer from chronic back or joint pain, it is hard to find any type of exercise that does not put you through stress. Even cardiovascular workouts can aggravate these physical issues.
Things like running and weight training can only increase the pain you feel in your joints and back or spine. However, there are options for you to stay in fit and get exercise without damaging your body or causing anguish.
If you are unsure about how to get cardio without running, you could try other options. Running is a great choice for anyone worried about pain.
The weightlessness that you feel in the water will help your body to avoid strain or pressure. You could also try making use of biking, if you happen to have troublesome areas in your legs.
Back pain can be caused by a number of different things. If you have pulled or strained the muscles in this region, it is important to follow a treatment plan; usually the best way to heal is to mix resting and relaxation with strengthening.
If this is a problem area for you, you may be noticing issues with your sacrum. This is a triangular grouping of bone at the base of the spine that sits between the hip bones.
Inflammation or discomfort in this region can be cause by too much sitting, overarching the lower back, working it too much, or simply from stress. In order to reduce the inflammation, you must find ways to relax the sacrum and stabilize it.
Joints are another thing that can get in the way of your ability to run, lift weights, or take part in aerobic activity. When these are worn down, your limbs do not move as quickly and easily as they may have before.
Find workouts that do not put stress or strain on your body. You can also make use of supplements, like glucosamine chondroitin, that repair these areas and make them more mobile.
One of the best workout options for an individual that experiences pressure or discomfort in the lower back is yoga. This is a very calm and static type of exercise.
The main focus is on relaxation and stretching your limbs and muscles. Yoga is performed by holding specific poses and breathing regularly.
The stretches make muscles more elastic and make the body looser. This method of exercise has been around for thousands of years, and began in India as a way to relax and free the mind spiritually.
It has since been adapted into a soothing and rejuvenating fitness regime. A typical yoga class or workout consists of a series of stretches and poses being held to optimize flexibility of the limbs, joints, and muscles and to calm the body.
Most gyms, especially ones that specialize in yoga, offer different classes for different levels of experience and health. Try to find one that is for individuals who are recovering from injuries or have chronic inflammation in areas of the body.
Not only will this workout give you more flexibility and strength, it will definitely assist you in losing calories. Very often, lower back issues are caused because someone is overweight.
If you are carrying extra pounds, you may need to lose the weight in order to feel better. The stretching aspect of yoga also assists the muscles in healing and regenerating.
Stress relief is one major draw of the exercise; its main focus is to make the body work with the mind is calm and unfocused. If you are hoping to find a way to lose weight and workout without harming yourself more, this is a great option to look into.
Of course, it is wise to consult your chiropractor, personal trainer, or physical therapist before you begin any type of constant regimen. They may be more aware of your ability level and will be able to tell you what you can and cannot do.
Medical professionals and those that specialize in spinal and back issues will be able to offer you advice on how to properly care for these injuries. If you are feeling lost and do not know how to stay fit and healthy without damaging your back, find new and interesting ways to get a workout; the more creative you are with your body and resources, the easier it will be to stay in shape.
Ronald Pedactor has been involved with medicine for over 20 years. He specializes in spinal recovery medicine and recommends (http://www.utahspineanddisc.com) for your back needs.
Things like running and weight training can only increase the pain you feel in your joints and back or spine. However, there are options for you to stay in fit and get exercise without damaging your body or causing anguish.
If you are unsure about how to get cardio without running, you could try other options. Running is a great choice for anyone worried about pain.
The weightlessness that you feel in the water will help your body to avoid strain or pressure. You could also try making use of biking, if you happen to have troublesome areas in your legs.
Back pain can be caused by a number of different things. If you have pulled or strained the muscles in this region, it is important to follow a treatment plan; usually the best way to heal is to mix resting and relaxation with strengthening.
If this is a problem area for you, you may be noticing issues with your sacrum. This is a triangular grouping of bone at the base of the spine that sits between the hip bones.
Inflammation or discomfort in this region can be cause by too much sitting, overarching the lower back, working it too much, or simply from stress. In order to reduce the inflammation, you must find ways to relax the sacrum and stabilize it.
Joints are another thing that can get in the way of your ability to run, lift weights, or take part in aerobic activity. When these are worn down, your limbs do not move as quickly and easily as they may have before.
Find workouts that do not put stress or strain on your body. You can also make use of supplements, like glucosamine chondroitin, that repair these areas and make them more mobile.
One of the best workout options for an individual that experiences pressure or discomfort in the lower back is yoga. This is a very calm and static type of exercise.
The main focus is on relaxation and stretching your limbs and muscles. Yoga is performed by holding specific poses and breathing regularly.
The stretches make muscles more elastic and make the body looser. This method of exercise has been around for thousands of years, and began in India as a way to relax and free the mind spiritually.
It has since been adapted into a soothing and rejuvenating fitness regime. A typical yoga class or workout consists of a series of stretches and poses being held to optimize flexibility of the limbs, joints, and muscles and to calm the body.
Most gyms, especially ones that specialize in yoga, offer different classes for different levels of experience and health. Try to find one that is for individuals who are recovering from injuries or have chronic inflammation in areas of the body.
Not only will this workout give you more flexibility and strength, it will definitely assist you in losing calories. Very often, lower back issues are caused because someone is overweight.
If you are carrying extra pounds, you may need to lose the weight in order to feel better. The stretching aspect of yoga also assists the muscles in healing and regenerating.
Stress relief is one major draw of the exercise; its main focus is to make the body work with the mind is calm and unfocused. If you are hoping to find a way to lose weight and workout without harming yourself more, this is a great option to look into.
Of course, it is wise to consult your chiropractor, personal trainer, or physical therapist before you begin any type of constant regimen. They may be more aware of your ability level and will be able to tell you what you can and cannot do.
Medical professionals and those that specialize in spinal and back issues will be able to offer you advice on how to properly care for these injuries. If you are feeling lost and do not know how to stay fit and healthy without damaging your back, find new and interesting ways to get a workout; the more creative you are with your body and resources, the easier it will be to stay in shape.
Ronald Pedactor has been involved with medicine for over 20 years. He specializes in spinal recovery medicine and recommends (http://www.utahspineanddisc.com) for your back needs.
Treating Spinal Arthritis
Individuals who are at higher risk for developing spinal arthritis include older patients, obese individuals, heavy laborers, and individuals with previous back injuries.
This disease is a problem that occurs in the joints that connect each spinal segment, or vertebrae. The vertebrae are connected in three places.
In front of the spinal cord, the vertebrae are separated by a cushion-like spinal disc. Behind the spinal cord, the vertebrae are connected by two small pivots called facet joints.
These facet joints, together with the spinal disc, allow movements of the spine including forward bending, arching your back, or sideways twisting. When the facet joints become arthritic, these back movements become painful and stiff.
Lumbar spine arthritis often is seen together with other back conditions like disc degeneration and spinal stenosis. As the facet joints wear out in arthritic conditions of the spine, the disc can also wear out over time, causing disc degeneration.
Facet arthritis often proceeds along with disc disease of the spine. Spinal stenosis is also often seen in individuals with lumbar spine arthritis.
As the disease progresses, nerves become pinched, leading to symptoms of spinal stenosis. These symptoms may include leg pain, numbness, tingling, and difficulty walking.
Arthritis of the lumbar spine most often causes stiffness and pain of the low back. Individuals often notice their back is especially stiff in the early morning after getting out of bed, and may loosen over the course of the day.
Symptoms also often become worse with prolonged or strenuous activity. When the disease worsens, the joints form bone spurs, the tissue swells from inflammation, and the nerves around these can become pinched.
This is a condition called spinal stenosis, which is often seen in patients with lumbar arthritis. These individuals often experience the common symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Treatment of spine arthritis depends on the symptoms experienced by the patient. Treatments always begin with simple measures and become more involved if patients don't find relief with these simple steps.
One of the treatments available for this disease is physical therapy. Physical therapy is used to strengthen the muscles of the lumbar spine.
By better supporting the spine with stronger muscles, less of the burden is placed on the facet joints. Even in patients who are fit and active, muscles around the spine can be further strengthened to alleviate symptoms.
Losing weight is a difficult task in patients who have worn-out bones. However, losing even a small amount of weight is often a sufficient step to relieving pain.
By removing even 10 pounds or more, the facet joints will support less of a load, and pain may be sufficiently relieved. Anti-inflammatory medications can decrease the amount of inflammation around the arthritic joints.
By lowering the inflammatory response, pain is often alleviated. Always use anti-inflammatory medications under your doctor's supervision.
Ice and heat applications can be very effective at relieving pain in the back. Patients usually find that heat is most effective before activity to "loosen" the spine, and ice is best used after any strenuous activities.
Chiropractors treat spine alignment, often with a process called manipulation. These treatments do not alter the back alignment, but they can provide excellent relief of pain.
Often the relief is temporary, but chiropractic treatments are a reasonable treatment to consider during a flare-up of lumbar arthritis. Alternative treatments include acupuncture, massage, magnet therapy, natural remedies, and others.
There is no doubt that many patients find significant relief from these types of treatments. While the scientific studies are lacking to support these treatments, most have few side-effects and are reasonable treatments to attempt.
Epidural injections are a way to administer a steroid shot around the area of the problem. Using a needle allows the medication to be delivered right to the area of the problem.
In patients with arthritis of a single facet joint, an even more precise injection, called a selective facet joint injection, can be performed. When all other treatments fail to provide relief of symptoms, a spine fusion may be a reasonable option for the treatment of severe facet arthritis.
Ronald Pedactor has been involved with medicine for over 20 years. He specializes in spinal recovery medicine and recommends (http://www.utahspineanddisc.com) for your back needs.
This disease is a problem that occurs in the joints that connect each spinal segment, or vertebrae. The vertebrae are connected in three places.
In front of the spinal cord, the vertebrae are separated by a cushion-like spinal disc. Behind the spinal cord, the vertebrae are connected by two small pivots called facet joints.
These facet joints, together with the spinal disc, allow movements of the spine including forward bending, arching your back, or sideways twisting. When the facet joints become arthritic, these back movements become painful and stiff.
Lumbar spine arthritis often is seen together with other back conditions like disc degeneration and spinal stenosis. As the facet joints wear out in arthritic conditions of the spine, the disc can also wear out over time, causing disc degeneration.
Facet arthritis often proceeds along with disc disease of the spine. Spinal stenosis is also often seen in individuals with lumbar spine arthritis.
As the disease progresses, nerves become pinched, leading to symptoms of spinal stenosis. These symptoms may include leg pain, numbness, tingling, and difficulty walking.
Arthritis of the lumbar spine most often causes stiffness and pain of the low back. Individuals often notice their back is especially stiff in the early morning after getting out of bed, and may loosen over the course of the day.
Symptoms also often become worse with prolonged or strenuous activity. When the disease worsens, the joints form bone spurs, the tissue swells from inflammation, and the nerves around these can become pinched.
This is a condition called spinal stenosis, which is often seen in patients with lumbar arthritis. These individuals often experience the common symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Treatment of spine arthritis depends on the symptoms experienced by the patient. Treatments always begin with simple measures and become more involved if patients don't find relief with these simple steps.
One of the treatments available for this disease is physical therapy. Physical therapy is used to strengthen the muscles of the lumbar spine.
By better supporting the spine with stronger muscles, less of the burden is placed on the facet joints. Even in patients who are fit and active, muscles around the spine can be further strengthened to alleviate symptoms.
Losing weight is a difficult task in patients who have worn-out bones. However, losing even a small amount of weight is often a sufficient step to relieving pain.
By removing even 10 pounds or more, the facet joints will support less of a load, and pain may be sufficiently relieved. Anti-inflammatory medications can decrease the amount of inflammation around the arthritic joints.
By lowering the inflammatory response, pain is often alleviated. Always use anti-inflammatory medications under your doctor's supervision.
Ice and heat applications can be very effective at relieving pain in the back. Patients usually find that heat is most effective before activity to "loosen" the spine, and ice is best used after any strenuous activities.
Chiropractors treat spine alignment, often with a process called manipulation. These treatments do not alter the back alignment, but they can provide excellent relief of pain.
Often the relief is temporary, but chiropractic treatments are a reasonable treatment to consider during a flare-up of lumbar arthritis. Alternative treatments include acupuncture, massage, magnet therapy, natural remedies, and others.
There is no doubt that many patients find significant relief from these types of treatments. While the scientific studies are lacking to support these treatments, most have few side-effects and are reasonable treatments to attempt.
Epidural injections are a way to administer a steroid shot around the area of the problem. Using a needle allows the medication to be delivered right to the area of the problem.
In patients with arthritis of a single facet joint, an even more precise injection, called a selective facet joint injection, can be performed. When all other treatments fail to provide relief of symptoms, a spine fusion may be a reasonable option for the treatment of severe facet arthritis.
Ronald Pedactor has been involved with medicine for over 20 years. He specializes in spinal recovery medicine and recommends (http://www.utahspineanddisc.com) for your back needs.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Homeopathic Migraine Relief
Homeopathy involves the use of non-toxic medicine for the treatment of illnesses. Several remedies used for homeopathic migraine relief, are available from pharmacies or health food stores. These medicines have been found to be very beneficial, especially at the onset of an attack. If you are able to identify the particular symptoms of your migraine headache; e.g. whether they are worse in the mornings or afternoons, then you are in a better position to determine which treatment would be best for you.
There are a number of homeopathic migraine relief remedies available, and they are generally safe. However, because each person's pain and makeup differs, then a remedy that benefits one person might not be helpful to another. It is for this reason, that you should identify the peculiar symptoms of your migraine headache. You can then opt for a treatment that relates to those signs. If after using the medicine for a reasonable period of time there is no improvement, then discontinue using it, and seek an alternative remedy.
Some common homeopathic remedies include:
Natrum Muriaticum
This is normally recommended for migraines that occur on the right side of the head. In addition, these headaches tend to be aggravated by one or several other factors such as exposure to the sun, and emotional upset. They also tend to be worse in the morning, and the pain is likened to a constant pounding in the head. Other symptoms include watery eyes, and tingling in the lips and face.
Byronia
This is useful if you are having a severe headache with starts near the eyes and then spreads to the entire head. Any movement of the eyes or head, tends to worsen the condition, and persons also complain of experiencing excessive thirst. Nausea and vomiting can also occur.
Belladonna
Useful for the relief of migraine headaches that originate at the back of the skull or upper neck. The pain can also spread to the forehead and temple. The attacks are more common in the afternoon, and are associated with very intense shooting pains in the head. Other symptoms include drowsiness, sensitivity to light and cold hands and feet.
Nux Vomica
This is normally used for migraines that result from stress and mental strain. The headaches usually occur in the mornings and start over one eye, usually the left. The headaches are accompanied by gastric problems such as constipation, or a bloated abdomen.
Sepia
Normally recommended for migraines that occur on the left side of the head. These are usually the result of skipping meals. They become more acute close to the menstrual period and during menopause. The pain associated with these headaches has been described as being similar to shocks. Persons normally become irritable and feel fatigued.
The use of homeopathic migraine relief remedies has become very common, as people seek alternatives to prescription drugs for treating migraines. It should be noted that the medicine works best when matched with the specific symptoms that you have. Particular attention should also be paid to the dosage, as this can vary according to the individual and the condition. As long as care is taken, homeopathic medicine can be very effective for the treatment of migraine headaches.
Discover how to get rid of your migraine headaches and get the migraine relief you need to make it thru the tough times. You can use proven and effective migraine treatment to get relief for your migraines headaches! To find out more go to: http://www.BeyondMigraine.com
There are a number of homeopathic migraine relief remedies available, and they are generally safe. However, because each person's pain and makeup differs, then a remedy that benefits one person might not be helpful to another. It is for this reason, that you should identify the peculiar symptoms of your migraine headache. You can then opt for a treatment that relates to those signs. If after using the medicine for a reasonable period of time there is no improvement, then discontinue using it, and seek an alternative remedy.
Some common homeopathic remedies include:
Natrum Muriaticum
This is normally recommended for migraines that occur on the right side of the head. In addition, these headaches tend to be aggravated by one or several other factors such as exposure to the sun, and emotional upset. They also tend to be worse in the morning, and the pain is likened to a constant pounding in the head. Other symptoms include watery eyes, and tingling in the lips and face.
Byronia
This is useful if you are having a severe headache with starts near the eyes and then spreads to the entire head. Any movement of the eyes or head, tends to worsen the condition, and persons also complain of experiencing excessive thirst. Nausea and vomiting can also occur.
Belladonna
Useful for the relief of migraine headaches that originate at the back of the skull or upper neck. The pain can also spread to the forehead and temple. The attacks are more common in the afternoon, and are associated with very intense shooting pains in the head. Other symptoms include drowsiness, sensitivity to light and cold hands and feet.
Nux Vomica
This is normally used for migraines that result from stress and mental strain. The headaches usually occur in the mornings and start over one eye, usually the left. The headaches are accompanied by gastric problems such as constipation, or a bloated abdomen.
Sepia
Normally recommended for migraines that occur on the left side of the head. These are usually the result of skipping meals. They become more acute close to the menstrual period and during menopause. The pain associated with these headaches has been described as being similar to shocks. Persons normally become irritable and feel fatigued.
The use of homeopathic migraine relief remedies has become very common, as people seek alternatives to prescription drugs for treating migraines. It should be noted that the medicine works best when matched with the specific symptoms that you have. Particular attention should also be paid to the dosage, as this can vary according to the individual and the condition. As long as care is taken, homeopathic medicine can be very effective for the treatment of migraine headaches.
Discover how to get rid of your migraine headaches and get the migraine relief you need to make it thru the tough times. You can use proven and effective migraine treatment to get relief for your migraines headaches! To find out more go to: http://www.BeyondMigraine.com
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