Vitamin C, A, D and Nicotinic Acid Deficiencies

Vitamin C

The discovery that the lack of certain essential substances in the body-either because they were not in the diet or failed to be absorbed and utilized-would cause serious disturbances of growth and health, was one of the most startling in all the history of medicine. Now these substances are called "vitamins"-a word coined by Casimir Funk around 1910.

Scurvy-a disease known for centuries-is now definitely established as resulting from a lack of vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid. The chief sources of vitamin C are the citrus fruits, the leafy green vegetables, Iris potatoes, and tomatoes.Milk contains a little vitamin C but even this little is lessened by pasteurization, or boiling, or any form of treatment that results in oxygenation.

Physicians see few cases of scurvy nowadays. Such cases as are reported affect chiefly people who live alone on greatly restricted diets, or people addicted to strange eating habits which interfere with normal nutrition. Sometimes the condition is seen in babies fed artificially, when mothers or nurses have failed to make certain that proper amounts of vitamin C-containing substances are included in the diet.

Among the chief symptoms of scurvy are bleeding from the gums and black and blue spots over the body, showing easy bleeding. Wounds of the skin heal slowly in those with vitamin C deficiency.

Scurvy can be controlled by taking plenty of vitamin C, which is now available in several medicinal forms. The material need not be injected into the blood but can be taken by mouth, after which the condition usually clears up promptly. Much better is the prevention of scurvy by the daily taking of some citrus fruit juice, tomato juice, or by eating leafy green vegetables, which add other important factors to the diet.

Nicotinic Acid Deficiency - Pellagra

The chief symptoms of pellagra, which is associated with a deficiency of niacin or nicotinic acid, include a red inflammation of the skin, a burning red tongue and mouth, diarrhea, and, in late stages, some mental disturbance. Many people in backward areas of the United States live on diets consisting largely of com meal, fat meat and molasses. The meat is usually salt pork or side meat. The chief deficiency in such diets is the lack of animal protein such as milk, cheese, lean meat, and eggs, and the failure of the diet in leafy green vegetables. Apparently exposure to sunlight of a person who is deficient in niacin brings out the symptoms.

Almost 7000 people died of pellagra in the United States in 1928. By 1946 the educational campaign on proper nutrition had been so effective that only 804 deaths were reported.

While few cases of the complete development of pellagra are seen nowadays, there may be many instances of beginning symptoms or what doctors call a "subacute condition." First come such symptoms as fatigue and loss of appetite. Then, following exposure to the sun, the burning and stinging of the skin appears and next the soreness of the mouth and tongue. With these symptoms the patient is nervous, irritable, and finds difficulty in sleeping.

Since the condition is a deficiency disease, the treatment is primarily the taking of adequate amounts of niacin, which is now available in several forms. If the condition is severe the doctor will inject the niacin rather than give it by mouth. The diet can be provided with the important niacin-containing foods. The doctor will look after the patient's skin condition and make sure that he gets proper nursing cafe during the severe symptoms of the disease. Some physicians give large doses of liver extract. With proper treatment patients improve rapidly.

Vitamin A Deficiency

The most prominent manifestations of a deficiency of vitamin A include difficulty in adapting to the dark, followed by night-blindness and a serious inflammation of the eyes that may end with loss of sight. Other important changes affect the skin. The deficiency may be due to an insufficient intake of vitamin A or carotene, from which it is formed in the body, or in failure of the body to absorb and utilize these materials. We know now that inflammations of the liver may interfere with the body's use of vitamin A. Mineral oil taken in large amounts prevents the absorption of vitamin A. The condition affects infants more often than adults, since infants require the vitamin both for growth and maintenance of certain structures. The liver can store enough vitamin A to carry the body along for six to ten months.

The changes in the skin associated with a deficiency of vitamin A include a generalized dryness and the growth of horny plugs called "hyperkeratoses" over the extensor surfaces of the limbs, the back, and the buttocks. Another manifestation is the appearance of grayish-white spots on the white portion of the surface of the eye.

When a shortage of vitamin A is noted, the condition should be corrected immediately by including in the diet such foods as butter, vitamin-enriched margarine and cod liver oil, which provide plenty of vitamin A. If symptoms have occurred, extra vitamin may be given as a capsule containing up to 25,000 units daily, which is about five times the usual required daily intake.

Cases are known in which people have taken tremendous quantities of this vitamin, even up to 250,000 units of vitamin A per day. Large excesses may cause serious changes in the liver, the spleen, the blood and the hair and nails.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Rickets, due to a deficiency of vitamin D, is far less frequent nowadays than formerly. Vitamin D may be taken into the body as such in foods or cod liver or halibut liver oil, or it may be formed by action of sunlight on the skin. The ultraviolet rays of the sun are important in this respect. In our industrialized cities most children get little direct sunlight. Dark skinned people get less ultraviolet than blond, thin-skinned Heavy clothing and window glass also prevent the passage of ultraviolet rays.

Children with rickets have beading of the ribs. They are irritable, restless, fretful, and pale. Most significant, however, are the failures of growth of bones and teeth. The head begins to appear overlarge, with prominent frontal bones; little soft areas may be felt in the bones of the skull. There appear enlargements in the region of the wrist and ankles and the legs get distorted into bowlegs, knock-knees, and there are pelvic deformities. The X-ray quickly reveals the extent of the deformities.

Rickets can be prevented by exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or an artificial source, but the giving of 400 to 800 units of vitamin D per day is much more certain. Nowadays milk containing vitamin D in adequate amounts is generally available in the United States. When a real deficiency is present vitamin D may be given in one of many different forms including fish liver oils, viosterol, tablets or other preparations.

Excessive vitamin D intake results in a condition called hypervitaminosis D, with many distressing symptoms. Excess calcium may be deposited in various tissues of the body. Stopping the vitamin D promptly gets rid of the annoying symptoms.

Arthritis in German Shepherds

Large breed dogs like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, and Great Danes are predisposed to certain bone and joint problems such as hip dysplasia, osteochondrosis, and cruciate ligament rupture which could progress to osteoarthritis. These conditions will be discussed in brief below followed by recommendations for treatment.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia can occur at any stage in a dog's life. The earliest symptoms of hip dysplasia, often characterized by instability and awkwardness in movement can be seen even in puppies. This early onset of hip dysplasia in large-breed dogs has been traced to inheritance of any of the parents' characteristics which usually involve an abnormality in the hip joint. Abnormalities with the hip joint (a ball and socket joint) may vary. Hip dysplasia could stem from a misfit in the ball and socket joint (either the socket is too shallow or the ball is misshapen or too small).

Causes of hip dysplasia can differ and could involve a sudden growth spurt, over exhaustion, and obesity,

Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis mostly affects 4-8 months old dogs. Although it could be an inherited disease, osteochondrosis is more often linked with underdeveloped cartilage typically in the elbow and shoulders. Problems in the normal development of cartilage in these joints lead to unevenness in the joint surfaces which can cause misalignment and other problems with joint structuring. Like hip dysplasia, osteochondrosis can occur due to a growth spurt and over nutrition.

Cruciate ligament rupture

Pain, swelling, instability in the knee joint, and lameness are just some symptoms of cruciate ligament rupture. This disease which leads inevitably to chronic arthritis of the knee involves a rupture in the anterior cruciate ligament in the knees. Traumatic injuries involving the degeneration (in mild cases) and a sudden tear (in severe cases) in the ligament are cited as the primary causes of such condition in large breed dogs.

Osteoarthritis

Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis gradually progresses as the cartilage in the joint erodes. Extreme pain could signal the growth of bone spurs or osteophytes, calcium deposits in tensed and stressed areas in the joints. Wear and tear with frequent activity is more often associated with osteoarthritis.

Treatment for osteoarthritis

With mild cases of osteoarthritis, treatment often involves prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs and/or steroids but since we are talking of large-breed dogs here, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs commonly referred to as NSAIDs are more effective. However, NSAIDs do not really provide an effective treatment to arthritis as they only provide temporary pain relief but do nothing to assist in the repair of the damaged joint. In developed or severe cases of osteoarthritis especially stemming from pre-arthritis conditions such as cruciate ligament rupture and hip dysplasia, surgery may be required to stabilize the joints.

Recent USA laboratory studies in 2006 as reported by "The New England Journal of Medicine", showed that glucosamine chondroitin in combination, reduced arthritis pain in those suffering moderate to severe joint pain more effectively than NSAIDS. These same results are shown to be as effective in pets. Synflex Liquid Glucosamine is a leading brand when it comes to dietary glucosamine / chondroitin supplements for dogs. The once a day dosing of Synflex Liquid Glucosamine depends on the size and weight of your dog and the severity of his/her arthritis condition. The liquid form is superior in its ability to be absorbed by the body almost completely.

Another plus is the liquid form is much easier to give to your pet than pills. You can be certain with Syn-flex for Pets, your German Shepherd will be in top shape in no time. Please read more on Synflex and the types of joint diseases your pet may encounter at syn-flex-usa.com.

Arthritis Treatment: Mesenchymal Stem Cells And Growth Factors For Osteoarthritis

As population demographics change with a gradually aging population, certain chronic diseases have become more common. There is a confluence of factors though that will make the management of chronic disease assume a greater level of importance. This is because not only are people living longer but they are maintaining a level of activity far greater than their parents and grandparents. This is most evident in the management of osteoarthritis where the incidence of joint replacement surgery is skyrocketing as Boomers demand a lifestyle which their forebears could only dream about.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and affects more than 20 million Americans. It is a condition that adversely affects hyaline articular cartilage, the smooth tough gristle that caps the ends of long bones.

Hyaline cartilage consists of two components: a matrix made up of a combination of proteoglycans (complexes of proteins and sugars), and chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are cartilage cells that manufacture matrix under normal healthy circumstances. They are responsible for nourishing the matrix as well.

With the development of OA, a distinct change in the joint environment occurs. Chondrocytes begin to elaborate destructive enzymes causing cracks and fissures in the cartilage. These are called "fibrillations." A complex interplay of events involving cartilage, bone, and synovium- the lining of the joint- then begins to snowball.

One of the most common joints affected by osteoarthritis is the knee. This is not a surprise since OA preferentially attacks weight-bearing joints.

Between symptomatic treatment and joint replacement surgery is a large gap in treatment measures. One area of recent interest is the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the management of OA. MSCs are the body's own stem cells which are found in many areas including bone marrow and fat. MSCs have the ability to differentiate into connective tissue of which cartilage is a prime example. Other types of connective tissue that MSCs have been shown to develop into are tendon, ligament, muscle, nerve, and intervertebral disc.

MSCs are active in the repair process when any type of connective tissue is injured. In degenerative disease like OA, the ability of stem cells may be depleted with less ability to differentiate and multiply. Animal studies have demonstrated that supplying additional MSCs may overcome this problem leading to healing and cartilage regeneration.

At least one human study in a small number of patients with OA of the knee has shown promising results using MSCs derived from bone marrow and fat. (Wei N, Beard S, Delauter S, Bitner C, Gillis R, Rau L, Miller C, Clark T. Guided Mesenchymal Stem Cell Layering Technique for Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee. J Applied Res. 2011; 11: 44-48)

Combining MSCs with autologous growth factors found in platelet-rich plasma also has added a boost to the natural abilities of stem cells to multiply and divide.

Multiple centers now are applying these principles.

What most centers lack though is the knowledge of what initiates stem cell multiplication and division.

MSCs are stimulated to "go into action" when the critical initiating event, injury is initiated. Injury is what attracts stem cells and injury is what leads to the release of growth factors from platelets. That is why induction of injury by removal of osteophytes, scarification of bare bone, and fenestration of cartilage defects is absolutely crucial for cartilage regeneration to occur.

This is best done using a combination of arthroscopic and ultrasound guidance means.

In addition, providing the proper environment for the MSCs to thrive afterwards is also critical. The osteoarthritic joint is a hostile environment. Multiple measures need to be instituted so that proper survival of MSCs occurs. Institution of effective scaffolding is critical.

Beam Skills and Activities For Preschoolers

Beam is the easiest gymnastics event to teach preschoolers. As long as you keep them on the low beams, they feel comfortable enough to try all the various walks and most of the skills listed below. Beam is easy because the event lends itself to the use of props, music, and various games.

SKILLS
The skills below are listed in a progression beginning with the most basic. All children mature at their own pace mentally, socially, and physically. Children also develop differently in the elements of fitness: strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Difficulty Level A (Parent and Tot)
Walks
forward
relev矇
sideways
bear (on all fours)
L-kicks
backward
step-stag
on-incline beam
lunge pose, V-sit
straight jump dismount (DM)
front support mount
tuck jump DM
Birdie Perch (deep pli矇 w/ hands on beam)
front scale
chass矇 side
straddle mount on low beam (LB)
relev矇 turn

Difficulty Level B
knee scale (L&R)
walk on med-high beam (MB) - no falls
pli矇 walk
back step stag
chass矇 front
small running steps
straddle jump DM
straight 翻 turn DM
squat turn
develop矇 walk
front support mount on MB
step hops
sidewinder in push-up (see photo)
crab push-ups
cross over walks
jump, switch feet
side kicks
cartwheels LB
front scale (5 sec.)
bounce ball while walking on LB

Difficulty Level C
Lunge step stag
Low tuck jump
Squat mount
Pike jump DM
Tuck jump DM 翻 turn
Straddle support
Leg cut-hip uprise on HB
Kneescale DM
Chass矇 (MB, no falls)
Straddle mount on MB
Handstand with spot
English handstand with spot
Long running steps

Difficulty Level A is for Parent and Tot classes as well as a place for all preschoolers to start. Basically speaking, Level B is appropriate for three and four years olds and Level C is for five and six year olds. Any child can progress to Level C after completing the first two levels.

I believe that keeping individual check-off skill lists in preschool classes isn't appropriate. This takes too much time out of class. Most preschool classes are 45 minutes in length. This is just the right amount of time for a fast-paced, fun-filled, perpetual moving class. There's no time to use individual skill sheets. What is recommended, however, is a "class check-off list." At the conclusion of the class or day the instructor should date when the skill was taught. Coaches who instruct a large number of classes weekly can't be expected to remember from week to week what skills were mastered in each class.

Safety Notes

A few safety comments about the beam are important to keep in mind.
1. Don't put a child on a beam higher than his/her waist. Children can learn all the skills they need on low beams in preschool. If you're forced to use high beams, build mats up to them so the students can easily "see" over the beam when they mount.
2. Teach the children how to fall! If they feel like they are about to fall, teach them to jump off safely. This lessens their fear to get on the beam initially.
3. Teach the student to "feel" the center of the beam through their body.
4. Don't have the tots dismount any further than they can jump up from a two foot take-off. Please watch their joints and hold their waist not their hands while they walk on the beam.
5. Have students dismount onto a 4" landing mat, not an 8" skill cushion. There's too much give to the landing when they're asked to jump into a skill cushion.

Spotting
If you keep the tots on the low beam and teach using progressions, there's very little need for spotting. If you must put them on the high beam, spot them on their walks by holding their waist, not their hand. Even a slight loss of balance could pull and tug at their arms too much and possibly injure their elbows or shoulders.

Remind them to look at the end of the beam when doing their walks, not down at the beam in front of their feet. Give the children various arm positions while they're doing their walks. Don't have them just do the arms out at the sides (airplane arms)- put some pizzazz and style into the arms. Have them overhead, on shoulders, on the waist, on the tops of the thighs, bow and arrow, V-shape, hug yourself, and various ballet arm positions.

Teach the children the proper ballet terms for the walks, and what they mean in French.
1. Chass矇-to chase
2. Pli矇-to bend
3. Develop矇-to bring up and extend

You should always give more challenging walks and combinations to those preschoolers who need them. For instance a side combination for three years olds might be chass矇, chass矇, step together. A four year old might do chass矇, step over, chass矇. A five-year-old could do chass矇, step together, step over. Always challenge the kids who are ready for more.

If you're looking for more beams, there are many varieties on the market. I like the three-layered red, white, and blue ZIN-KIN Beam. Use cloth jump ropes laid on the floor to be used as their own beam. Taped lines work well, too. There are two beams you can find in equipment catalogs you might want to get. The Edu-Beams (it has shapes, numbers, and colors on it) and Beam-Links (this beam comes in sections with a Velcro top which are great for mobile programs).

Vary the way you place the floor beams. Zigzag them, put them in a triangle or rectangle, or build inclines, planks, ladders, stairs, or other beams up to it.
Always have the student mount and dismount-even if it's a step-on mount and a straight-jump dismount (Ta-da!) at the end. Use visual cues such as footsteps, hand prints, small foam letters and bean bags to "tell" them where to put their hands or feet. Place two floor beams by each other. Have the child's hands on one and feet on the other. Move laterally down the beams. (Call this spider walks.) Use descriptive language and catchy names often, but always teach the proper gymnastics name too.

Stations
Creating different stations or challenges at the beam area is easy with the use of props. A "station" is an area where students can go and work by themselves on a task that is basically self-explanatory. Successful preschool classes are based on children learning through instruction and self-discovery.

Have a station where the children exercise. They can place their hands on the beam in a crab position and do tricep push-ups. The children can place their hands on the beam and stretch out to a push-up position with their feet on the floor and move laterally down the beam (sidewinder push-up). If it's an older boys' class, have them put their feet on the beam, stretch out in a push-up position with their hands on the floor and do decline push-ups.

Have stations where the students can work on hand-eye coordination activities like throwing balls to other children while they're each on a floor beam. Have them roll a ball, football or exercise wheel down the beam. Put photo cards or pictures on the beams to step over that goes with a special theme for that day. Have a cone on each side of the beam with a rope in the cones to create a barrier to step over, etc. Have plastic bowling pins next to the beams to knock over for pli矇 walks and to develop foot-eye coordination. A station utilizing the concept of crossing the mid-line of the body can be created by putting cones alongside the low beam. Put foam balls on the top of the cones. The task is to pickup the balls, cross their arms, balance, and put the balls on the other cones.

Put the beam over the pit to create a crocodile pit and then use bubbles to help the kids jump off into the pit. Have a station where the students put their hands on the beam and their feet on the floor and they work on handstands, handstand snapdowns, and cartwheels. Use a beam or oversplitting for the older children as a waiting station.

Use the plank, ladder, and floor beams to connect the high beams in patterns. Have the low beams in a square and children all spread out two to a beam. The teacher in the middle can review poses, positions, and various walks. In Parent and Tot classes, Mom can hold the child's feet and place a hand under the child's tummy to do wheelbarrow down the beam. You can put a trapezoid piece across a floor beam and use it a s a surfing station. Put three hoops at the end of the beam, decorate his tummy and face with tape on he floor land have the kids dismount into "Frosty the Snowman," or add antennas to the top hoop and call it a ladybug.

Other Activities

Using props such as jump ropes, balls, scarves, lummi sticks, hoops, and ribbons can make the class easy for the coach and fun for the student. Children frequently feel more confident on the beam if they have something to hold. Here are some props and ideas for their use:

Hoops
1. Place them lengthwise tucked snugly under the medium beam. The students can use this as an " in and out" station.
2. Place them snugly under the medium beam facing the end of the beam and create a tunnel to get back in line.
3. Slide a hoop under the floor beam and let the student hold the hoop (steering wheel) and drive down the beam. Children can just hold the hoops in their hands and drive their car, also.
4. Use the hoop as a jump rope.
5. Roll it alongside the beam as the student does various walks and motor skills.
6. Place the hoop over head and "flutter" or overhead and twist for helicopter.
7. Hold the hoop with both hands and move like a figure 8 as the child does walks down the beam.

Jump Ropes (cloth pieces of clothesline)
1. Hold the rope at various heights (overhead, shoulder height, low) and do leaps, poses, walks, turns, and motor skills.
2. Use as a jump rope.
3. Make figures in the air as child walks down the beam.
4. Put the rope around the child's waist. Cross the rope and have a teacher on each side and pull creating a turn. (spider web)
5. Place the rope on the floor and use as a beam.

Rhythmic Ribbons and Scarves
(Alternative: crepe paper streamers)
Keep the ribbons short so that they don't become tangled. Have the children move down the beam doing various poses, walks, turns, and motor skills while they make flowing arm movements with the ribbon in their right hand, then left hand.

Lummi Sticks, Foam Shapes, Bean Bags
This is a great "child-directed" lesson. Give each child a piece of equipment. Ask them to participate by suggesting out loud some ideas about what they can do with these pieces of equipment while they move down the beam. Call on each child to encourage participation.

Balls and Balloons
These activities are limited to the floor beams only. On the high beam the child tends to "walk" right off the beam following their ball or balloon- Oops!
1. Bounce them on the side while moving down beam.
2. Hold at various levels while doing movements on the beam.
3. Throw, roll, or bounce a ball to partner while standing on another floor beam.
4. Roll the ball down the beam.
5. Do rhythmic movements with the ball in hand while moving down the beam.

Games
All children love to play games. Here are a few for beam:

1. Hokey-Pokey- Bring a tape player over to the beam area with the music playing. Arrange the floor beams so that all children face the same way (towards the instructor). Have the instructor lead and do the song while the kids are on the beam. This works balance, directionality, turning, and movement to music.

2. Simon-Says- As a way to review poses, positions, turns and walks, play this familiar game while all the children are on the floor beams. No losers, though, the "losers" just go to another beam.

3. Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes- This familiar song can be sung while the kids walk down the beam. They can say, "head, shoulder, knees and toes, knees and toes, knees and toes, head, shoulders, knees and toes" while they're touching the correct body parts and walking down the beam. At the end of the song and the end of the beam they can say "all turn around." Then they're ready to go down the beam again.

Balance beam for preschoolers can be fun for them and a treat for the instructors with just a little preparation and planning in the lesson plans. Use these ideas- good luck!

4. Macarena - Spread the kids out and have them do this popular dance. Have a wedge of cheese mat (incline) at the end of the beam. When they finish the dance all dismount down the cheese wedge and then you have Macarena and Cheese! (Thanks Steve Greeley for that joke!)

5. Vegetable Soup - Lay small foam cut outs of vegetables on the beam. As you move down the beam with various walks, pick up the vegetables to the end of the beam and then you have vegetable soup!

Introduction to Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy for Joint and Back Pain

Platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP) is a new and innovative treatment that naturally heals injured joints and tissue by using the body's own healing process. PRP therapy can be used in patients suffering from joint and knee pain, lower back pain, rotator cuff tears and other orthopedic type injuries. Many clinical studies have shown the benefit from using platelet rich plasma for the non-surgical treatment of these conditions.

Joint pain, particularly in the knees and shoulders as well as back pain constitute the large majority of patients who present to their doctor's office with a complaint of pain. Many of these patients proceed to have surgery, all too often with less than optimal outcomes. Many of these patients still have the same pain they had prior to surgery, or worse, more pain. They are in chronic pain and are frustrated that no one can help them. They are amazed that surgery did not fix them. Platelet rich plasma therapy offers these patients with joint and back pain relief by healing damaged knee or shoulder joint tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Patients with back pain benefit by PRP repairing damaged ligaments and muscles.

Patients with persistent back pain frequently feel that surgery was the only option that they have. Unfortunately all too many patients fall into the trap that surgery is the only answer to their pain problem and were convinced that surgery would "cure" their pain. The most unfortunate thing is that surgery was most likely not appropriate for them in the first place. Surgery will, more frequently than not, fail to relieve spine pain. That is because in the majority of the time, back and neck pain are not due to a spinal problem. The problem most likely due to soft tissue pain: muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia (the cover tissue of muscles).

Platelet rich plasma offers patients an effective therapy to relieve their pain without surgery or narcotics. This incredible therapy was never taught in medical school. Basically platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP) uses your body's own natural healing process to repair damage tissues.

To make PRP, two ounces of your own blood is taken and processed to extract out PRP. In whole blood, PRP is only one percent volume of the blood. With platelet rich plasma processing, we can concentrate platelets by 500-600%. This concentrated platelet rich plasma can then be injected directly into the area with damaged tissue. This may be in the knee or shoulder joint, lower back, neck or into injured tendons or ligaments.

In patients who have bone fractures, PRP dramatically accelerates bone healing and pain relief. Platelet rich plasma therapy is a remarkable treatment. It clearly helps patient to avoid surgery, has no recovery time and uses the body's own healing mechanism to get natural, stronger healing.

This therapy has been widely used by pro athletes, including players in the NFL such as Super Bowl player Hines Ward of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Major League Baseball superstar and Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez has received PRP therapy. Perhaps most famously, pro golfer Tiger Woods received this therapy for his knee pain.

Why Soft Drinks Contribute To Osteoarthritis And Pain

It remains a mystery why men worsen from osteoarthritis and pain more than women do by drinking soft drinks.

HFCS and other harmful sweeteners in soft drinks cause fat gain and health challenges. But, a recent Harvard study indicates that arthritis of the knees is not caused just by extra weight you are carrying around.

Researchers at Harvard speculate that other ingredients in soda pop along with the sugars compound the damage to bone health. Carbonic acid requires action to counteract its damaging potential of removing minerals from the blood, tissue, and bones. Phosphoric acid interferes with calcium absorption and needs to also be counteracted. High fructose corn syrup feeds the acids and adds more challenges to bone health. Acids increase oxidation and more free radicals may be released adding stress to the cells. So, the bad sugars are not alone. They have accomplice.

A more alkaline system is desired for better health and may be achieved from less acid input and by bicarbonate input but that is much different than adding carbon dioxide to the water or soft drink. Carbonated water containing phosphorus which can interfere with the metabolism of calcium and contribute to leaching calcium from your bone.

A Harvard researcher found that soda pop consumption is associated with bone fractures in teenage girls. However, it is yet to be fully understood why men have worsen osteoarthritis and pain from soft drinks than do women. The sex hormones apparently play an unseen role.

Tooth enamel damage and decay dramatically increase in those who drink carbonated drinks. The decay is believed to be primarily due to sugar content, but assisted by the carbonation. The carbonic, phosphoric, and citric acids are all potentially harmful to tooth enamel which dissolves in an acid pH under 5.2.

Over a four year period, the researchers examined 2,149 osteoarthritis patients - 3,066 knees - and surveyed them about the frequency of their non-diet soft drink consumption. After factoring in excess weight and other risk factors for knee osteoarthritis, they discovered that men who drank five or more soft drinks a week had a greater progression of arthritis by a 2 to 1 ratio compared to men who did not drink soda pop.

Osteoarthritis of the knee is prevalent in about 1 in 100 people. When the cartilage in the joint wears down it increases friction that causes pain. The increased stress to the joints often leads to physical disability and even joint replacement.

A lady that I know experienced serious knee problems for lack of cartilage and had difficulty walking much less climbing stairs. The challenge within a few months disappeared as her hormones were brought into more of a balance and Smart Sugars replaced the bad sugars. She could climb stares without a problem and without the cracking sound her knees had previously made.

Sugars in soft drinks can become unknowingly addictive as they feed alcohol and acid in the system. It was remarkable to find a healthy sweetener that actually reduces the sugar crave and that is healthful by protecting the cells from stress. I and many others have experienced added benefits from the sugar Trehalose.

Arthritis of the Knee and the Role of Modern Medicine in Combination With Alternative Therapy

Several forms of Arthritis of the Knee exist. Osteoarthritis is the most common and one of the leading causes of disability in the world today. Estimates in the US vary from 21 million to 40 million people who suffer from Osteoarthritis today. Other reports claim that half of the people in the world today will eventually suffer from Arthritis of the Knee.

Arthritis of the knee occurs for many reasons and few of the causes have been defined by modern medicine. Wearing of the lining of the joints caused by repeated use under trying circumstances such as running or the result of old injuries are some of the causes being explored today for Arthritis of the knee.

While the cause is poorly understood, the effects of Arthritis of the knee are clearly defined. The constant inflammation of joints in arthritis of the knee causes discomfort and further deterioration of the lining of the knees. The fluid cushion of the knee is reduced causing further damage to the lining of the knee joint. The lining of the knee joint wears thin and eventually bone against bone contact occurs damaging the bones themselves. The primary treatment in modern medicine for Arthritis of the Knee has been the use of anti-inflammatory medicines and joint replacement surgery for many years. Both of these treatments have other effects and should be considered with alternative treatments for Arthritis of the Knee. However anti-inflammatory drugs have many side effects that are undesirable. Knee replacement surgery can only be done once per knee and if performed too early may wear out resulting in physical limits.

Modern medicine tends to ignore or play down the ability of alternative treatments to help in combination with their treatments because they have a poor understanding of how they work in Arthritis of the Knee. Your physician is concerned with improving your health and functioning in a way he thoroughly understands and believes is best for you. The modern medical field simply has little or no motivation to understand or investigate alternative therapies related to Arthritis of the Knee and as a result most physicians have a poor understanding of how, why or even IF they work. Your physician does not want to recommend something he does not understand! There are few medical studies related to alternative treatments for Arthritis of the Knee.

My studies have provided several theories that help form opinions about alternative treatments of potential value. Every individual who tries an alternative treatment for Arthritis of the Knee needs to know that they are embarking on their own adventure to find the right combination of what works for them and their Arthritis of the Knee. Alternative treatments for Arthritis of the Knee work better when combined with a medical treatment plan. Speak to your physician about the alternatives you are trying so that he/she may assist if possible. Remember that your physician may be resistant to alternative treatments because they do not understand them but, YOU are in charge and have the right to make your own decisions. You are the person in pain and suffering from Arthritis of the Knee. Alternative treatments will not prevent people from needing joint replacement surgery in Arthritis of the Knee, but they may provide help and comfort before the surgery is needed. Alternative treatments may even help you to extend the time before you HAVE to have the joint replacement surgery for your Arthritis of the Knee.

And finally remember that you should try a combination of alternatives rather than what one company or person recommends. A good example of this is Chondroitin and Glucosamine combined with Gelatin. Studies performed on Chondroitin and Glucosamine do not mention Gelatin and yet the best responses I have been able to discover to date have always contained all three ingredients in treatments for Arthritis of the Knee.

Severe Knee and Leg Pain - Knee Injuries - Special Report on Helping to Stabilize Your Knee

Do you suffer from severe knee and leg pain?

We hope you don't, but if you do then it is time to face this problem.

Severe knee and leg pain usually occurs as a result of sudden twisting or straining motions of the knee or leg. These injuries range from torn knee ligaments, torn knee cartilage, fractured knees and ruptured tendons in the knees. Severe knee and leg discomfort from knee injuries can be debilitating. Most people who sustain such injuries will find that even a simple activity like walking can cause excruciating pain. Can you relate?

Common Causes of Acute Knee Injuries

Acute knee injuries are almost always the result of sports. When playing high impact sports such as rugby, soccer or basketball, it is very easy to sustain a knee injury. When players become physical, it is easy for a knee to sustain a twisting force. These twisting forces unfortunately can lead to knee sprains or ruptured tendons. This occurs when the tendons or ligaments in the knee are twisted beyond their ability to stretch.

Severe knee and leg pain may also come from much other unfortunate circumstances. Tripping and falling down hard on your knees, for example, can easily cause knee fractures. The kneecap, which consists of bone that covers the knee joint, can fracture if hit hard enough. When all of your weight falls on your kneecaps, it can be easy for them to fracture or for a ligament injury to happen.

Preventing Acute Knee Injuries

While preventing all acute knee injuries is nearly impossible, there are some precautionary measures that you could take:

Strive to Increase Flexibility: An excellent way to help prevent strains and tears is to strive to make yourself more flexible. Muscles that are more flexible can stretch more and are capable of tolerating a higher twisting force before the ligaments and tendons rupture or tear.

Work towards Losing Weight: Another factor to take into consideration is your weight. If you are overweight, then you are much more likely to sustain knee injuries. This is because the force of your weight acting on your knees is that much greater. If you are overweight, it is crucial for the health of your knees that you embark upon a weight loss program.

Wear Proper Footwear: Proper footwear is extremely important. The right shoes will help you gain traction on the field, and prevent you from slipping and falling on wet terrain.

Wear a Knee Brace: A knee brace can also be very helpful in preventing knee injuries. Knee braces are fit around your knee and help to support it. They flex easily and will not hinder your movement during physical activities. They do not have to be big and bulky, nor expensive to help provide meaningful support to your knee. In the end, it is important that you do not look back, wondering what you could have done to help protect your knee.

Reclaim Youth by Understanding How to Beat Arthritis Naturally

With the changing times, it's getting harder and harder to guess people's ages by looking at their faces. Sixty really is the new forty. But the tell tale sign to a person's age is often watching the way they move. Often the older a person gets, the more carefully they walk. Maybe one can detect pain upon opening jars or walking up stairs. And looking at family history provides a window into the possibility that a person might be suffering from the stiffness and pain that accompanies arthritis.

Not everyone who suffers from joint pain and stiffness wants to medicate their problem away. In an age where finding healthy alternatives to every day ailments is more and more desirable, seeking out natural ways to beat arthritis really is the fountain of youth for people who are experiencing discomfort performing even simple activities.

It may surprise arthritis sufferers to learn that there are foods that prevent arthritis from taking the fun out of life. There are also methods that teach a person how to beat arthritis naturally and return the spring to their step - varieties of fruits, herbal treatments, exercises, vitamins and foods that really do exist and really do make a huge difference to people who suffer from the debilitating effects of arthritis.

Maybe a person is doing laundry and feels a sudden knee pain when they are carrying the basket upstairs. Or perhaps they are finding themselves turning over the finer work to younger people. Even hobbies and activities that people enjoy doing for themselves are pushed to the side when the pain and stiffness of arthritis start appearing more and more often. All of these things can restrict activities and take all of the joy out of life for millions of people all over the world.

But it doesn't have to be that way. By eating foods that prevent arthritis from getting a foothold on a person's lifestyle and learning how to beat arthritis naturally, a person can take control of their body, their health and their future without expensive treatments that often have dangerous or unknown side effects. There really are natural ways to treat arthritis and carve out a more enjoyable and healthy daily regimen.

It can be confusing to understand how to beat arthritis naturally. And finding all of the foods that prevent arthritis can mean hours and weeks of research. Wouldn't it be great if all of that information was available in one simple report that would show all of the most effective and proven natural ways to treat arthritis? No more ineffective pills, creams and rubs. No more smelly liniments and ointments.

The end of doctor's visits that cost money and frankly just make a person feel old? There really is such a report. A person should look as young as they feel. And feel as young as they are.

Arthritis - 3 Tips to Help Slow Its Progress

The main factors for susceptibility to arthritis are age, sex and it being heredity but there are steps you can take to minimize the onslaught of this debilitating condition.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one option this includes exercising, eating correctly, practicing weight loss and using a safe natural herbal supplement.

More than 200 types of arthritis have been identified. While the more severe forms are crippling, the milder ones often go unnoticed, the most commonly occurring form of joint inflammation is osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear of a cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common form. Arthritis statistically is known to affect three times the number of women as men and has been found in the bodies of young adults.

It is a common misconception that arthritis only affects older people, the fact is, that it can strike at any age.

Arthritis is known to be present in the bodies of around 20,000 children worldwide some as young as 12 years old. The signs of arthritis in children are often overlooked, these errors can be attributed to insufficient training in rheumatic diseases. In their five years of education, most medical students undergo a mere, two weeks, training period in rheumatology.

According to Peter Prouse, a rheumatologist at North Hampshire Hospital, it is very important to identify the condition at the earliest possible point in children. He states "The majority of children disabled by the disease are the ones who are mis-diagnosed in the first five years. This results in damage to the soft tissues around joints and the joint itself, they eventually cannot move either the knee or hip resulting in the wasting of muscles which inhibits normal mobility."

Here are 3 tips that may help reduce the progress of arthritis.

Weight Loss - When arthritis starts to set in people tend to lessen their physical activity due to the fear of the pain becoming too much to bear or causing further damage, this is the wrong thing to do as it can lead to the muscles becoming weaker which in turn can make you gain pounds or even cause obesity. Ensure that you have a healthy diet with ample fruit, fish, vegetables and a natural supplement if required.

Daily Exercise - like cycling, swimming or walking, to strengthen support muscles and keeping the joints moving helps with some of the characteristics of arthritis, these types of activity have helped many people cope with the discomfort caused by this painful disorder. Daily activity should also help muscle rejuvenation, relieve pain also help with the stabilization and ease the stiffness of joints.

Diet Control - Early research intimates that foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, glucosamine (extracted from shellfish) and chondroitin (from cow cartilage) can reduce inflammation and pain and have a strong anti-inflammatory effect on arthritis.

7 Major Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is a very painful condition that affects millions and millions of Americans every year. There are many different types of arthritis including psoriatic arthritis, gout, septic arthritis, scleroderma, osteoarthritis, gonococcal arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis of all types is a condition that affects the body's joints. A joint is defined as the location where two bones in the body come together. People suffering from arthritis experience joint inflammation that may occur in one bodily joint or many joints.

Two types of arthritis that are commonly discussed include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. You may be wondering what some of the major differences are between these two conditions. Here are seven major differences between osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

1. Osteoarthritis is more common than Rheumatoid Arthritis. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), OA affects around 27 million American adults 25 years and older. The Arthritis Foundation reports that RA affects about 1.5 million people in the United States.


2. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by the wearing of bodily joints over time. RA is an autoimmune disease that occurs when a person's immune system attacks the body's joints.


3. Typically people experience OA when they get older. RA can strike a person at any point in life. When it occurs in children, it is sometimes called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.


4. RA can occur quite quickly whereas OA tends to have a more gradual progression over the course of many years.


5. RA tends to strike in a more symmetrical manner where a person might experience inflammation and pain in both hands or both feet. In contrast, OA can easily affect only one joint in the body.


6. Both types of arthritis cause a sense of stiffness in the morning. While the morning stiffness may lessen as the day goes on for those with OA, people with RA are more likely to experience this stiffness for a longer period of time during and throughout the day.


7. Rheumatoid arthritis is often accompanied with other symptoms which include overall tiredness and malaise, whereas the discomfort associated with osteoarthritis is specific to the joint that is affected.

Arthritis of any type is painful and challenging. Treatment most typically aims to help reduce discomfort, aid physical functioning and if possible, to prevent additional damage to bodily joints.

A thorough physical examination by a trained health care professional like a board certified orthopedic physician is advisable if you think you might be suffering from any type of arthritis including osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

ACL Reconstruction in India

Knee ligament injuries are common. Two wheeler accidents are the commonest cause of knee ligament injuries in India, unlike the developed countries where participation in sports is the main cause. The roads of the cities are congested with two wheelers. With the corporation digging up roads for sewage works, road widening, there are too many hazards for them as they have to weave through traffic, pedestrians, autos, animals and dug up roads. At times an unexpected object or animal comes across and in order to avoid a collision, the motor cyclist brakes suddenly and can injure himself. As the vehicle comes to a sudden halt, in order to balance himself, he plants his leg on the ground, or may loose his balance and fall over, sustaining a blow to his shoulder. After his foot is planted on the ground, due to the inertia, the vehicle and the rest of the body are carried forward and thus occur a twisting injury to the knee joint. The menisci and ligaments of the knee are also often injured simultaneously.

Symptoms of the injury

1. The person may hear a popping or snapping sound in his knee. He is unable to stand up and balance himself.

2. Swelling may develop rapidly and this is due to accumulation of blood inside the joint (Haemarthrosis). This indicates a rupture of the knee ligaments, commonly the anterior cruciate ligament injury (ACL). Later the swelling subsides, but the ligaments do not heal. This is particularly true of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

3. Giving away of the knee becomes a recurring complaint. During one of these episodes, one of the menisci (semi lunar cartilages) may get caught between the femur and tibia and may tear. This complicates matters as a bucket handle tear of the meniscus can lead to further episodes of giving away. This combination of injuries leads to instability and degenerative changes. Articular cartilage injuries can occur at the time of accident and may need attention. You can develop early arthritis of the knee by the age of forty.

Treatment:

First aid
When there is swelling, the RICE method helps
>R-Rest
I- Ice
C- Compression or Crepe bandage
E- Elevation.
D-Consult your Knee surgeon (doctor) if in pain. He may relieve you of pain by aspirating the blood from within the joint. Exercise of the thigh muscles is suggested.

Surgical treatment

If you are young and play sport or if you develop symptoms of giving way of the knee then the ligament injury needs to be surgically treated.

Repeated episodes of giving way can cause damage of the menisci. Surgical treatment is called an ACL Reconstruction. It is best done after a short interval to allow the swelling to settle down. If treated early tears of the menisci can be repaired with arthroscopic assistance. Many orthopaedic surgeons excise the torn portion of the meniscus, but this may not be the best option. The best is to suture the meniscus if it is in a suitable site. Therefore the best time for an examination and surgical reconstruction is after three weeks, when the swelling has settled down and chances of success of repair of the semilunar cartilages are high.

ACL reconstruction can be done with the assistance of the arthroscopy or by an open operation. There is no age limit for this procedure. The advantages of an arthroscopic method are that the incision is smaller, and the sites of fixation of the graft can be accurately visualized. Donor tissues can be harvested from the patient's own neighboring tissues or can be from a cadaver. Following the surgery, the patient has to undergo a rehabilitation process. Eventually they can return to sport by the end of six months.
Conservative treatment methods like prolonged immobilization, bracing are not effective in healing of the ligament or restoring stability.

Prevention:

Adhere to lane discipline.
Avoid attending mobile calls when driving.
Do not over speed.
Two wheelers should stick to the left lane of the road.

Speed Up Your Metabolism Fast With This Single Exercise!

Are you interested in how to speed up your metabolism fast and efficiently? If so then you have arrived at the right place. You see in order to speed up your metabolic rate and to burn off those unwanted pounds you must engage in exercise that drastically increases your level of perceived exertion. To do this you have got to include kettlebell training into your workout formula. The following kettlebell exercise is a great drill for you to naturally increase your basal metabolic rate by helping you to pack on lean muscle.

Kettlebell thrusters are a great way to boost your metabolic rate. This particular kettlebell exercise can be performed with either a single or a pair of bells. To execute this particular exercise you will want to properly clean and rack the bell or bells to your chest. From here you are simply going to perform a kettlebell front squat while maintaining the balance and position of the bells in front of your body. As you descend into the squat try to lower yourself to a position so that your elbow or elbows touch the insides of your knees. This will ensure a good squat depth for the drill. As you ascend up out of the squat make sure that you lock out both your hips and knees. Once you have locked out then simply complete the lift by pressing the kettlebell overhead. Lower the bell back to the racked position at your chest to start the process for the next rep all over again. Once you knock out about 5 or 10 reps of these on each side you will quickly understand what I mean about increasing your level of perceived exertion. To further challenge yourself you can advance to doing timed sets when you get used to executing the lift in a comfortable manner.

If you haven't already taken the time to include kettlebell thrusters or other kettlebell lifts into your personal strength program then you are holding up your progress on rapidly speeding up your metabolism. Take the time to access the rest of my articles on the matter for free. Remember that most anyone can train hard, but only the best train smart my friend. Give it a try!

Types of Knee Braces & How They Can Help Your Injury

If there is lot of pressure on the bones and ligaments of the knees, you are more likely to get a knee injury. Types of sports that can cause this are American football, rugby, hockey and soccer.

And as people age in combination with their high impact sports history, the probability of problems increases as ligaments weaken and the knee starts to become less resistant.

Knee braces may be able to help you in these situations.

What types of knee braces are there and how can they help your injury? There are 3 main types of knee braces that are used for a variety of issues.

A post-operative brace is a functional brace which assures that the knee heals and is not overused.

The purpose of a functional knee brace is to assist or accommodate basic knee functions. The way the knee usually moves is how the brace also operates.

Finally, a protective (or prophylactic) brace is used for healthy knee joints and is a preventative measure against possible injuries which may occur in high impact sports for example.

A debate exists between physicians on the effectiveness of protective knee braces are and that they are actually bad for healthy knees.

Overall, it does appear that knee braces are an effective way to protect the joints and ligaments in certain contexts like high contact sports.

The symptoms of a knee injury will vary depending on the injured structure.

Common Types of knee injuries are; Patella tracking disorder. This occurs when the kneecap (patella) shifts out of place as the leg bends or straightens. You may experience popping, clicking or grinding noises as you run or walk.

Patellofemoral syndrome (PFPS), also known as chondromalacia patella or runner's knee. This is a common knee condition which occurs from injury to the patella or from friction between the patella and the groove in the femur (thigh bone). This pain can get worse when sitting for long periods, climbing stairs or kneeling for long periods.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (IBT), which is a injury to the thigh typically associated with athletic activities such as running, cycling, hiking, or weightlifting. If you have IBT, you will feel pain to the outside of the knee just above the joint.

Patellar tendonitis (or jumper's knee). This injury occurs when the tendon and tissues that surround it, become inflamed. Usually from overuse particularly in jumping activities. It will cause pain directly over the patellar tendon.

If in doubt, a medical professional who has examined your knees can determine the most suitable knee brace for you. This also depends on your age, type of injury, pre-injury mobility, interventions available and your overall activity levels.

Shoulder Replacement: A Treatment That Must Be Revisited

Joint arthritis is a problem affecting millions of Americans from all walks of life, and arthritis of the shoulder is no different. But, while we frequently hear about knee replacement and hip replacement, it is very rare for a similar treatment to be suggested for the shoulder.

However, it is not because of a huge difference between the hip or knee from the shoulder that this is the case. The primary reason that shoulder replacements are so rare is because there is a simple lack of expertise in such procedures. On top of this, it has been cited that shoulder surgery has more risk than a similar surgery for the hip or knee.

Thanks to a recent study, it appears that this common understanding was false. A study by the John Hopkins Department of Orthopedics led by Edward McFarland, MD, director of the division of adult orthopedics at Johns Hopkins Hospital analyzed a series of hip replacement versus knee replacement versus shoulder replacement procedures. After studying the way the patients recovered and the extent of effectiveness of the surgery, researchers concluded that comparatively, total shoulder replacement was just as safe and effective as other types of joint replacement.

According to a nationwide 2003 Medicare figure, 6700 people had shoulder joints replaced that year compared with 107,000 hip replacements and nearly 200,000 knee replacements. While these numbers would suggest that hip and knee replacements are most effective because they are most popular, it is interesting that patients in the study who had shoulder surgery, had far fewer in hospital post-surgical complications compared to those who had their hips and knees replaced. Additionally, despite the fewer numbers compared to the knee and hip, the shoulder replacement surgery (also called arthroplasty) was less expensive, according to the researcher. Shoulder replacements total cost on average were just over $10,000 where hip replacement was $15,000 and knee replacement nearly $15,000.

What it really comes down to is that shoulder replacement surgery should be performed more frequently than comparative surgeries in the knee and hip. This fact is that the surgery is cheaper, more effective, and has equal, if not more, of a demand from American patients. The effectiveness of shoulder replacement surgery cannot be ignored, as 99% of people who have had shoulder replacement for arthritis, find pain relief after the surgery and say they wish they had done it sooner. As indicated by the John Hopkins study, there may be little reason to wait.

Total Knee Replacement: Advantages and Disadvantages

Do you suffer from severe knee pain, stiffness and immobilization in your knee that affect your ability to do things? Does the knee pain remains painful despite taking physiotherapy, steroid injections, doing exercise, and using walking supports? Well, it sounds you are a candidate for total knee replacement surgery.

There are several medical conditions that may lead to the need of knee replacement surgery, and arthritis is the most common among them. Genetics, developmental abnormalities, some form of injury and obesity are the other contributing factors.

Patients who have tried and failed the non-surgical means to get respite from knee pain such as weight loss, lifestyle modifications, anti-inflammatory medicines or cortisone injections, all to no avail, can greatly benefit from knee replacement surgery.

Overview

Also known as knee arthroplasty, this surgical procedure is performed to replace the severely diseased or damaged surfaces of the arthritis knee with an artificial metal or plastic part called 'implant' or 'prosthesis'. These man-made (artificial) prosthetic devices are shaped to allow continued motion of the knee.

There are two main types of surgeries for replacing the damaged knee - Unicondylar / Partial Knee Replacement (UKR/PKR) and Total Knee Replacement (TKR).

The latest statistics presented this year at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) show that more than 4.5 million people in the United States are living with a total knee replacement. By some estimates, approximately 130,000 replacement surgeries are carried out annually in the United States.

Surgical Overview

Also called total knee arthroplasty, total knee replacement is an ideal option for people with severe destruction of the joint of the knee, causing significant pain, stiffness and impaired function of the knee.

It is a major yet highly successful surgical procedure which involves replacement of all three compartments of the knee- the medial (inside of the knee), the lateral (outside of the knee) and the patellofemoral (the front of the knee).

In this surgery, bone surfaces of the knee and cartilage that have been damaged by arthritis are removed and replaced with artificial surfaces (implants) made of metallic and plastic materials that function similar to a healthy knee.

Advantages

A successful total knee replacement offers tremendous benefits and can vastly enhance the quality of your life.

The problems of instability, disability and restricted mobility of the knee are completely alleviated through this surgery.

The surgery provides the patient with a considerable reduction or even elimination of pain. Following the surgery, the patients can largely restore range of motion of the knee.

The pain-free knee allows patients to retain a wide range of daily activities, including climbing stairs, shopping and getting in and out of chairs, thus enabling them to lead a normal life

The patient will experience improved muscle strength and improved alignment of deformed joints following the surgery.

Artificial knee may last for a long time. About 95% of knee replacements last 15 years or longer, thanks to the latest technologies.

Disadvantages

Blood clots in the legs can develop, which can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) that can further cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and even shock.

Other risks of total knee replacement include urinary tract infection, nerve damage, and blood vessel injury.

Nausea and vomiting, swelling, chronic knee pain and stiffness, and bleeding into the joint of the knee are some complications one can experience following the surgery.

Furthermore, infection of the knee may occur in some cases, requiring hospital admission and re-operation.

One of the biggest disadvantages of total knee replacement is its cost. Getting total knee replacement may make you dig deep into your pockets. The cost of the surgery, however, varies depending on the surgeon's experience and skill, the type of implant, the extent of the surgery, the hospital, medications, special tests and your insurance coverage.

Do Natural Arthritis Pain Relief Products Really Work?

Arthritis is the #1 cause of disability in America today. It is now one of the most prevalent chronic health problems. Shockingly, nearly 1 in 3 Americans (nearly 70 million) live with some form of arthritis, costing the United States $86 billion a year in healthcare costs related to treating the illness. New science confirms nutritional supplements glucosamine and chondroitin are the right combination for effective knee pain relief. The Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), funded by NIH, rigorously evaluated the efficacy and safety of glucosamine and chondroitin in 1,258 people, concluding in its abstract that the "combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is effective in treating moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis."

GAIT lead researcher Daniel O. Clegg, M.D., Professor of Medicine and Chief of Rheumatology at the University of Utah, presented his landmark findings at the American College of Rheumatology's Scientific Meeting in San Diego, California.

Funded by NIH, the $14 million GAIT study is the largest placebo controlled, double blind, clinical trial ever conducted to test the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin. All 1,258 patients who completed the study were over the age of 40 with knee pain and randomly assigned placebo; glucosamine 1500 mg; chondroitin 1200mg; glucosamine/chondroitin at above mentioned doses; or celecoxib (Celebrex) 200 mg daily for 6 months. The abstract published each treatment group's response rate to pain. Of particular note, the group taking the glucosamine/chondroitin combination experienced greater relief for the treatment of moderate to severe knee pain than the Celebrex group.
GAIT was designed to test the safety and efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin alone and in combination in reducing knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. The study's abstract concluded that when taken together, "glucosamine and chondroitin is effective in treating moderate to severe knee pain due to OA [osteoarthritis]."

Naturally occurring in the body, glucosamine stimulates the production of cartilage, the connective tissue which cushions joints. Chondroitin is also naturally occurring in the body and like glucosamine stimulates the production of cartilage. Previous research has indicated that glucosamine is just as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing osteoarthritis pain and has fewer gastrointestinal side effects than NSAIDs.

After extensively researching treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, a natural non-prescription treatment that seems to be gaining a lot of attention recently is a nutraceutical product called Flexcerin. This arthritis supplement contains all of the natural arthritis relieving nutrients, including glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and other special ingredients to help reduce inflammation, swelling and stiffness as well as protect the joints and provide long lasting pain relief. World renowned arthritis specialist, Dr. Andrew Weil MD., states "Supplements such as glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate may actually help restore damaged tissue structure in joints, perhaps because these two substances are natural constituents of healthy cartilage." Flexcerin could definitely provide relief from your painful arthritis. Widely used in Europe for years to treat osteoarthritis, glucosamine and chondroitin are safe and effective nutritional supplements, as proven by the GAIT abstract.

Whether you are interested in all things "natural," want to avoid side effects from prescription drugs, or want to leave no stone unturned in your quest for relief from arthritis pain you should realize that leaving yourself open to waiting for a viable option could prove to be a very unwise choice. Arthritis causes the most damage in the first six months if left untreated.

MMA Vs Traditional Martial Arts

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is the fastest growing sport in the world. It has given individuals an outlet to test their skills against other skilled fighters in the name of sport. MMA utilizes a variety of strikes such as kicks, punches, elbows and knees depending on the rules governing that particular event. MMA also enables fighters to take their opponent down using throws or wrestling and once on the ground MMA fighters use grappling in order to submit their opponent or punish them with strikes until the referee stops the fight.

Fights can be won by submission, knockout, technical knock out, or judges decision. I myself have competed in MMA and did fairly well. I won some fights and I lost some fights but I had a blast competing. I personally love MMA and what it brings to martial arts as far as sport. MMA fighters are some of the best athletes in the world and best conditioned. I have great respect for anyone willing to put their body through the grueling training required to be a successful fighter. The problem I have with some MMA fighters is their total lack of respect for the traditional martial arts. These fighters are in the minority in their way of thinking as most MMA fighters have immense respect for traditional martial arts.

These fighters are most often amateurs who do not put in the time nor the energy in training but rather do it solely for the purpose of the label. These guys think being labeled a "MMA fighter" will bring them respect and give them a higher standing within society or at least within the martial arts community. My question is what exactly do these "MMA fighters" think they are doing? Afterall if you break down the moniker MMA it stands for MIXED Martial Arts. MMA fighters are martial artists who train in a variety of styles of martial arts in a hybrid fashion. Sure many MMA schools don't carry with them the traditional values and philosophies of traditional dojos such as discipline, self-esteem, respect, integrity, and honor.........but the majority of them do. The fact is these fighters who lack respect for traditional martial arts are naive. Simply put they are practicing traditional martial arts and they don't even realize it. Albeit it is a watered down version of different martial arts combined hence the "mixed" in mixed martial arts.

They use boxing for hand strikes; Taekwondo, Karate, and Kickboxing for their kicks; Ju-Jitsu for their submissions; Judo and wrestling for their throws and takedowns.........all traditional martial arts. Again MMA is designed for sport NOT self-defense. MMA is regulated by rules such as weight classes, no small joint manipulations, no strikes to the groin, no strikes to joints, no kneeing a downed opponent in the head, no eye gauging, no friends allowed to join in the fight, no rocks, no knives, no chairs, no glass bottles.......you get my drift. Traditional martial arts such as Karate, Ju-Jitsu, Judo, and Aikido etc were developed and designed for life or death situations. The entire point of this post is that I firmly believe that ALL martial art styles need to be respected. Each and every martial art brings a unique aspect to self-defense. Sure we develop our own philosophies, opinions, and way of looking at other martial arts but in the end they all should be respected. This is my opinion and my opinion alone although I am sure many will agree.

Knee Resurfacing - An Alternative to Traditional Or Other Computer-Designed Knee Replacements

One of the newest and most exciting treatment technologies offered in orthopaedics today is knee resurfacing. Knee resurfacing is a true alternative to traditional total knee replacement. Knee resurfacing is performed by replacing only the worn-out, arthritic, compartment(s) of the knee vs. the more traditional knee replacement approach in which the entire knee is replaced. This approach is especially recommended for the younger, more active patient who does not have any cartilage remaining on a portion(s) of their knee. Post-operatively, this approach also offers the potential for the patient to return to a fairly high level of activity.

What is Knee Resurfacing?

For years, this concept could not be realized, primarily because of difficulties in imaging the knee accurately. However, new advances in CT or CAT (computerized tomography) technology now make it possible for implant manufacturers to utilize a simple CT scan of the knee to construct an exact, three-dimensional model of a patient's knee. A CT scan is an X-ray technique that produces images of your body in which internal structures are visualized in cross section rather than the overlapping images typically produced by conventional X-ray exams. After the anatomically correct model is created, the manufacturer can then fabricate the necessary implants required to replace the arthritic area(s) of the knee.

How Does This Procedure Differ From Traditional or Computer-Designed Knee Replacement?

In order to fully appreciate the differences in the resurfacing procedure when compared to other knee replacement approaches, some explanation is in order. Although most computer-generated knee replacements involve a patient to pre-operatively undergo an MRI scan or CT scan of their knee, this concept is different from other computer-designed knee replacements that are currently being advertised. It must be remembered that most manufacturers of knee replacement implants make a left knee and a right knee model in a variety of different sizes. A patient's knee will be cut down to accommodate whichever size of implant most closely approximates their natural knee. All surgeons use cutting guides or "blocks" which are made to facilitate the implantation of the pre-fabricated knee implant, no matter if the replacement is to be a traditional or computed designed procedure. However, in a knee resurfacing procedure, there are no pre-manufactured cutting blocks or implants. The patient's own knee is utilized to make the model on which the patient's custom-made implants are then manufactured, cutting blocks are created and everything is sent to the surgeon to be used at the time of surgery.

What are the Benefits of this Procedure for Patients?

1. Less bone is removed in the procedure. All knee replacements require that a patient's knee be "prepared" to receive the implant, which usually requires significant bone removal and shaping before the implant can be positioned into place. The knee resurfacing manufacturer produces a cutting block, fitting the patient exactly, which is sent to the surgeon to use when making the initial bone cuts. As a result, the implant lies on the surface of the knee bones and essentially replaces the cartilage that has been worn away.

By utilizing custom-made cutting blocks and knee resurfacing implant, the surgeon does not have to remove nearly as much bone to achieve the proper fit and positioning of the implant. Less bone cutting also translates into less pain post-operatively.

2. More surgical options are available if the knee needs to be fully replaced at a later date. Since minimal bone is removed during the knee resurfacing procedure, it is much easier to convert a resurfaced knee to a primary total knee replacement, should the need arise due to complications from arthritis or injury down the road. Also gone is the worry that the patient may require a complex revision should something happen to a conventional knee replacement.

While not for everyone, knee resurfacing is a great alternative to total knee replacement for healthy persons who are younger and want to maintain an active lifestyle.

Osteoarthritis of the Knee - Why Does Hydrotherapy Help?

The main difficulty facing arthritis sufferers is that they are told exercise will help but exercise very often increases their pain. Our natural instinct to avoid pain makes us more likely to do less activity, resulting in weaker muscles that don't support our joints.

To break out of this cycle you need to exercise these supporting muscles to make them stronger. The pay-off is less pain but the road is not easily travelled. The most difficult part is getting started. There needs to be a bit of 'trial and error' - gently testing various exercises until you stumble across one that lets you fatigue the muscles without aggravating your knee pain. The best way to do this is to seek the advice of a physical therapist. If the co-pay remains too expensive, there is no reason why you can't have a go yourself. You will need to do your research and find as much information as you can on the subject. There are also some inexpensive books covering this subject.

Why the pool?

Osteoarthritis is primarily a disease of weight-bearing joints. Being in water helps you eliminate or greatly reduce the load on your joints. This allows some exercises to be pain-free in water that would otherwise aggravate you knees.

Purpose built hydrotherapy pools are heated. Heat helps combat stiffness in joints (but remember it can aggravate some inflammatory conditions). The combination of gentle exercise and heat can help lower pain levels. Remember though - just because you don't have access to a heated pool doesn't mean you can't benefit from this type of exercise. Any body of water takes weight off your joints.

The pool also allows you to start very gently. A common reason for people giving up on exercise is that they start too fast, too soon. This causes a flare up and the natural response is "I'm not doing that again......I could not walk for days"

Start in chest high water and walk some laps. If this doesn't bother your knees before or after, add some shallow squats. No two knees are the same so its up to you to learn about your knees and take control of  your arthritis.

What to Expect When Your Dog Faces Luxating Patella (Trick Knee) Surgery

A year ago the author's year-old Cockapoo pup Simon was diagnosed with canine luxating patella (trick knee). Simply stated, the kneecap in his right rear leg was dislocating. The evidence of this condition - Simon walked stiff-legged until he popped the kneecap back into its groove.

The prognosis - without surgery, the condition may worsen. Arthritis develops in most dogs with this condition. If the dog exerts too much pressure on the knee joint, he can blow out a cruxiate ligament.

A month after the diagnosis, Simon's knee was repaired by a veterinary surgeon.

The Most Critical Part Of Simon's Story

The most important part of Simon's story was the recovery period. To ensure the surgical repairs healed properly, post-surgery instructions emphasized inactivity for six weeks. That meant walking up and down stairs and jumping up on anything and anyone were banned.

If the dog falls backward on the recent surgical repair, he can re-injure his knee. In this case, another surgery may be required. If you have other dogs or children, extra vigilance is necessary. During play, a blow to the injured animal's hip or mid-leg can cause tearing in the repaired tissue.

What Else Can You Expect?

A short hospital stay - Simon's returned home one day after the operation.

The dog may require pain and anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics for about a week post surgery.

During the first week of recovery, the dog will sleep a lot because of the medication. After that, he will probably feel better and want to resume normal activity. Obviously, that's not an option.

The dog cannot lick or disturb surgical sutures, so an e-collar may be required.

Other items you need to consider:

* Pen, crate, or gate to contain your dog.

* Toys for entertainment.

* A carrier for car travel (uncontained, a dog can fall during quick stops).

* A comfy e-collar

The surgeon and hospital costs may run into thousands of dollars.

Winning the War on Osteoarthritis Joint Pain

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting about 21 million Americans. This degenerative disease causes limited range of motion in the affected joints and can affects the most basic of daily activities. In the worst cases, osteoarthritis results in debilitating pain.

Unlike other forms of arthritis, which are genetically linked, osteoarthritis affects people of every race, age and gender... athletes and couch potatoes alike. Despite the seemingly random nature of osteoarthritis, there are certain risk factors for developing the disease. Injury, aging and overweight all contribute to one's risk. Athletes, such as soccer and tennis players, are particularly susceptible to developing osteoarthritis due to the abnormal wear and tear on the weight bearing joints of their bodies.

Because of the progressive nature of osteoarthritis, continued use of the damaged joints causes the damage to worsen and pain to increase. Identifying osteoarthritis early can mean the difference between a lifetime of manageable or excruciating pain. Moreover, while it is possible to identify osteoarthritis early, it is impossible to cure the condition... this is why early detection and treatment are so vital.

In most cases, osteoarthritis develops over time and the pain is not constant. You may experience a stiff joint at first - particularly when rising from sleep or after prolonged periods of sitting. Perhaps your knee "gives out" when walking down stairs or crouching down. These could be signs of osteoarthritis.

The most important advice you may receive is to NOT ignore the pain and assume it will "just go away." If it is, indeed, osteoarthritis, the pain will not decrease with time. Taking action NOW is key to managing pain and keeping yourself healthy.

The first course of action many people take is over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications, called NSAIDs. These popular medications are advertised as cure-alls for whatever ails you, but they do not come without risks. From gastrointestinal upset to stroke, for some patients the treatment is worse than the disease! In fact, NSAIDs do nothing more than decrease inflammation temporarily. As the patient continues to use the medications, a larger dose is required to achieve a minimum level of relief.

There is another option for osteoarthritis suffers wanting immediate and lasting relief. With a lot of medical practitioners onboard now, more and more people are turning to natural supplementation that has proven itself effective over and over again - glucosamine and chondroitin.

To understand why glucosamine and chondroitin supplementation are so effective, it is important to understand what happens in a joint affected by osteoarthritis. Another name for osteoarthritis - wear-and-tear arthritis - gives some clue - the repeated use of a joint, "wear and tear," wears away the cartilage cushion in affected joints. The cartilage is worn away too quickly to be replenished and inflammation results as the bones make contact with each other.

Whereas NSAIDs provide only temporary relief by decreasing inflammation, supplementation with glucosamine and chondroitin gives temporary and long-lasting relief. How? By giving the affected joints a booster shot of sorts with the very molecules needed to replenish damaged cartilage - glucosamine and chondroitin.

Valgus - What Does This Mean in Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

'Valgus' is a term used by the medical profession to describe joints that form an angle different from the usual. It does not apply only to the knee. Valgus means that the part of the body furthest away from the torso is angled away from the midline position. In simple terms, if the knees are described as valgus, they are 'Knock-kneed.'

Valgus knees indicate that the arthritis is mainly on the outside of the knee. The wearing down of the cartilage lining on the outside of the knee has led to a change in the angle through the joint. The terminology a doctor would use would be to describe being knock-kneed as having a valgus deformity, or the latin phrase 'genu valgum.'

Doctors approximate the angle of deformity to assess the progression of the degenerative joint disease. Please note: there is natural variation between individuals, with some having a larger angle through the knee than others. The change in angle is the important factor.

When a knee becomes so painful that surgery is the only option, the good news is that in most cases the surgeon can correct any angulation. It is not uncommon for patients to have a straighter knee after their operation than they have had for years.

As is common in osteoarthritis, it is important not to focus too much on factors such as joint angle - after all it is just a measurement. Symptoms, particularly pain, generally take priority in the decision making process. It is wise to seek an expert opinion however, as on some occasions, large deformities make surgical intervention more difficult than usual.

Spinal Fusion Options - Roads to Recovery

Spinal fusion has become a very common surgical procedure in the United States over the past 10 years. There are many diagnoses that range from fractures of the spine to severe degenerative disc disease that prevent patients from being able to stand or walk are best treated with a surgical remedy. This article is intended to provide a basic review of the many spinal fusion options that are available. It is best to talk to a fellowship-trained spine surgeon who will be able to give you a complete picture of all of the devices available that are recognized for quality and reliability or to help you rule out those that are not recommended.

As the number of spinal fusions has increased, the variety of procedures and hardware alternatives that are available has also increased. It may be easier to understand why there are so many types of fusions if you consider how fractures need to be fixed with fusion. With broken bones, there is usually little question about the wisdom of providing casts or plates and screws to stabilize bones that need to be realigned or stabilized. Spinal fusion provides the same stability for the spine as is used for other fractured bones. What is a spinal fusion? Screws and rods in the spine are used to keep bones from moving as the bone graft that is placed allows the stabilized bones to form a connection across a previously mobile disc space. The growth of bone between 2 previously mobile bones is called fusion.

Standard fusion technique: Initially, fusion of the vertebral bones was done by laying bone graft between the bones, to provide a scaffolding across which the native bone cells could grow. As the patient's bone cells move across the bone graft, they are able to incorporate the bone graft into the patient's own bone structure, forming a complete connection called a fusion. Bone graft is of primary importance in allowing the vertebral bones to fuse across a previously mobile segment. Studies of patient's with fusions done with bone graft alone have shown a relatively good rate of incorporation when patients are placed in back braces for 3 months or more. Because of the inconvenience and discomfort of the bracing, pedicle screws and rods have been added to provide an internal support that obviates the need for external supports. Internal screws and rods have increased successful fusion rates, as well as allowed patients to become mobile very quickly after the spinal fusion.

Interbody fusion cages: As the skill of the surgeon's has grown when applying screws and rods to the spine, we have, in turn, looked for better ways to gain improved results. Now, we are able to put bone graft around the back of the spine, as well as into the disc spaces. With these improved grafting methods, we are able to safely access the lumbar disc from the back of the spine. Adding bone graft to the disc increases the surface area for healing and should improve the overall success rate of the spinal fusion. Interbody grafting can be done from several different approaches, as access to the disc space can be achieved from multiple directions.

XLIF: This acronym stands for extreme lateral interbody fusion. XLIF is a newer device designed to provide a carrier for bone graft and support to the disc space. It is placed through an incision on the patient's flank. By making an incision on the patient's side, the abdominal contents can be moved out of the way for a good view of the spine. Unfortunately, there are some significant nerves in the front of the spine that are very sensitive to being moved. This type of access to the spine can lead to weakness in one leg because of the sensitivity of these nerves. At this time, there are no long-term studies that demonstrate success of this procedure.

AxiaLif: This is another fusion device that has received some attention, due to its being touted as the "least invasive spine fusion". This device is placed across the lowest disc space by access from the front of the sacrum (a large, triangular bone at the base of the spine, inserted like a wedge between the two hip bones). By placing instruments through a small incision near the rectum towards the spine, the disc is accessed through a series of cannulas (hollow surgical tubes) and drills. This allows the disc material to be removed from the disc space. After the disc material is removed, bone grafting can be placed into the hole that is created. This disc space is then supported by a tapered screw placed into the bones. So far, this device has had minimal post-surgical study and is most likely best done in conjunction with standard screw and rod fusion techniques.

Flexible Rods: There has been some recent excitement around rod and screw systems that are so-called "non-fusion" fusion devices. This confusing name infers that, although the intent of the screws and rods is for the bones to not move, these devices are designed to allow some movement. As was discussed earlier in this article, fusion is the solid connection of bones that had previously moved. The idea of these flexible rods is to provide "enough" stability to allow the bones to fuse together, but not enough to change the forces in the spine. This is termed a "soft-fusion". At this point, there is no consensus as to how much or how little support is needed to achieve this goal. It is known that current screw and rod systems provide enough support to allow a fusion to occur while providing complete immobility of the vertebrae. Other than this complete connection, the amount of support less than complete immobility has not been defined and at this point is still under investigation.

Disc Replacement: Disc replacement was developed as an alternative to fusion and is suggested for those discs that have ruptured, but in which the bone structure is still good. If only the disc has gone bad, removal of the disc leaves a space that we normally fill with bone graft to promote fusion in the neck or lower back. With the development of the disc replacement, the space that is left from disc removal can be filled with a device that allows motion, rather than fusion. This is a complete reversal in the approach to disc removal; from complete immobility to complete mobility. Disc replacement is intended to maintain the motion in the spine. This reconstruction of the spine should maintain the forces across the discs in the spine to prevent the other discs from deteriorating any more rapidly than their normal degenerative process. Disc replacement in the lumbar spine has met with some success in well-selected patients. It has not been a panacea for all patients with low back pain or degenerative disc disease. Disc replacement in the cervical spine has had good success, as most neck fusions are done for bad discs with the bones being in good condition.

Improved training, including advanced specialty training in fellowship programs, as well as improved implants, has decreased most surgical procedure times to 2 hours or less. Historically, older techniques have been known to take 4-6 hours for the operation alone. By decreasing operative times, surgeons have seen decreased complications from the anesthesia, as well as decreased risks of infection and blood loss. Most surgeries under 2 hours will not require a blood transfusion.

A well-informed patient, who understands the benefits and the risks of their surgery, can fully participate in the choices that need to be made about their surgery. If you have been told that you need a spine fusion, ask questions and do your research. It is appropriate to ask your surgeon about their experience performing spinal fusions, how many of the fusion procedures they perform, how long the operation will take and the likelihood of needing a blood transfusion. Selecting a well-qualified surgeon can help ensure the best outcome for you and the success of your spinal fusion.

Cerebral Palsy and Aquatic Therapy

Cerebral palsy is a condition that is diagnosed at birth or during early childhood. It is a condition that permanently affects muscle coordination and the movement of the body, but doesn't worsen over time. Although you may think the illness would be located in the nerves or muscles, this isn't the case. Many people suffer from this illness and some research shows that aquatic therapy can help. Since there is no true cure, those that have been diagnosed find comfort in using aquatic therapy.

Benefits of Aquatic Therapy

Cerebral palsy is known to cause the body to become rigid, so gentle movement can help to stretch the muscles. Those that back this form of therapy see that patients are more relaxed than with other physical therapies. There are swim spas that offer water yoga called Ai Chi. Some patients with severe cases of cerebral palsy find this method to be the only way they can do muscular exercises. Even though all therapy types are good for people with this disease, most cause spasticity to decrease because they only teach specific motor functions.

With aquatic therapy, cerebral palsy patients have more freedom to move about as they wish, which allows them access to more motor functions. There is another water therapy that is used called Aquatic PNF (Propioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation); this is a compilation of different techniques that help patients to work out their limbs. You can find these techniques used at a rehab pool and are known to help greatly. You can likely find a rehab pool or swim spa near you that can help you or a loved one exercise their way through cerebral palsy.

Besides developing muscle coordination, a swim spa can be used to lose weight and build muscle strength.

Total Knee Replacement - Three Mistakes to Avoid During Rehabilitation

After having a knee replaced, many patients get anxious about the healing process. Everyone wants to get results as soon as soon as possible and are looking for ways to speed the process up. Though you may have gone through pre-operative training at your local hospital, retaining the information learned from class can be short lived. I have listed three common mistakes most people will make after knee surgery.

1. Trying To Speed Up The Healing Process: A majority of the time this seems to affect the men. Most men will try and circumvent the time involved and get onto the fast track as if they have something to prove to someone. You will begin to start feeling like yourself in generally four weeks but, do not expect the knee to feel much better until six weeks out from the day of surgery. It will be temperamental for the first six weeks.

2. Not Using Ice: I would not recommend this. After you have completed your exercise session or just generally want to curb the level of pain or swelling apply ice to the knee. You cannot use too much ice. All rehabilitation professionals will agree with this. I have seen a few that never use ice but this is the exception rather then the rule. Ice is the best modality in my estimation to use after joint surgery. Please make sure you encase the entire knee however, throwing a bag of peas on the top of your knee will not get it done. Ice is great for pain relief and keeping the swelling do to a minimum.

3. Trying To Avoid Using An Assistive Device: Believe it or not there are some that will not want to use any device after surgery once they get home. In the hospital its mandatory but once you get home you may be tempted to see what you can do without the walker. This puts unnecessary stress on the knee and surrounding soft tissue setting you up for a sleepless night and a very painful knee. If you are receiving physical therapy at home or an outpatient clinic, you will be instructed as to when you can revert from using a walker to a cane.

The key is not to rush things. you can expect your new knee to calm down and swelling subside in six weeks. Of course some will progress faster then others but all in all your rehabilitation will work out if you give it time.

Exercises For Love Handles

Excess amount of fat deposits in the lower region of the abdominal muscles is termed as love handles. Love handles develop due to the accumulation and development of excess amount of fatty tissues in this area. The bulge is further aggravated due to gravitational pulls from the sides. Love handles destroy one's appearance and make an ugly impression when it comes to looks. Therefore people with these unwanted structures strive to lose them at any cost.

Love handles can be got rid of only through a proper diet and exercising. Though there are some ways to burn fat without exercising, they are not recommended as they won't be giving you any toning of the muscles. On the other hand, there are exercises that will raise your metabolic rate and tone your muscles while you lose your love handles. However, you have to follow a healthy diet along with exercising in order to lose your love handles and keep your abs flat forever.

Exercises that focus only on diminishing your love handles are not much effective. Rather those exercises that tone up your entire body are helpful in losing love handles. In order to burn excess fats that are accumulated, your metabolism should be elevated. There are no specific exercises that can reduce love handles, thus those exercises and workouts that aid in toning up the entire body by burning up excess fats accumulated are collectively referred to as "exercises for love handles".

Here are some exercises picked out of the never ending list of exercises for love handles for you to follow in order to get rid of your love handles. Start now with an appropriate diet and a regular exercise scheduled to get that ugly stuff away!

Cardiovascular Exercises for love handles

Cardiovascular exercises for love handles elevate your body's metabolism and aid in getting rid of love handles in an effective manner. Involve in cardiovascular exercises for 20 to 45 minutes per day. There are indoor cardiovascular exercises as well as outdoor ones. Stationary bicycles, treadmill, stair climbers, ladder climbers, elliptical trainers and rowing machines are indoor cardiovascular exercises. Swimming, biking, jogging, treadmill, running, rowing, hiking and walking are outdoor cardiovascular exercises. Cardiovascular exercises should be accompanied with other regular exercises like crunches, pull-ups and push-ups to get rid of your love handles. In the beginning, it will be a few weeks before you realise any positive changes in your abdominal structure. However, prompt positive effects will be realised in the areas of metabolism and mental alertness within a few days.

Crunches

Crunches are abdominal exercises. They help you to lose love handles by lowering fats in the abdominal region. Here are three different types of crunches that concentrate more on your love handles. To have an effective reduction of love handles, we recommend you to repeat the below given crunches at least 25 times each.

1. Regular Crunches


Lie back on the ground over a floor mat and keep your feet fixed to the floor with raised knees. Fold both your hands on the back of your head for support. Now slowly lift up your head and try to touch your knees, while keeping your stomach tight. Return back to the initial position now.


2. Twisted Crunch


Lie back on the floor and keep your hands folded at the back of your head. Now bend your right knee, stretch the left leg and raise your head slowly and flex to touch the left elbow with the right knee. Now repeat this with the left leg.


3. Reverse Crunch

Lie back on the ground over a floor mat and keep your feet fixed to the floor with raised knees. Fold both your hands on the back of your head for support. Lift up your knees to come in contact with the elbows. During this exercise, your head and your upper body should not move. They should lie flat on the floor.

Trunk Twists

Stand up straight and place your two feet at a distance of one foot from each other. Turn your waist to the right and to the left alternatively, while keeping the legs and knees stationed. When you turn to your right, move around your left arm in that direction; and when you turn to your left, move your right arm in that direction.

Leg Flapping

Lie down on a floor mat such that your abdomen touches the ground. Raise your head slowly while you place your arms firmly at your sides. Now raise your legs and your knees and flutter them to and fro one by one.

Dumbbell exercise

Take two small dumbbells or two small mineral water bottles. Stand straight placing your feet far apart (shoulder width distance). Bend your arms and hold the dumbbells at close proximity to your body. Twist your hip and legs, while keeping your legs straight as you bend sideways.

Lean to your left from your waist and stretch your right hand to your left. Come back to the initial position and return back your arm to your body. Repeat the same with your right side and stretch your left hand to your right.

Stability-Ball Twist

Lie yourself on your back over a stability ball while keeping your feet on the ground. At your chest level, hold a medicine ball and stretch your arms. Place your buttock on the ball, and slowly turn your trunk to the left till your knuckles point towards the wall. Now get back to the centre and do the same with the next side.

Roll and curl

Start with a push-up like posture, keeping your feet rested on a stability ball, and your hands on the ground distanced at shoulder width. Place your abdomen and buttock tight; bend your knees to roll the ball towards the right of your chest. Stretch your legs to rotate the ball back to the initial position. Now do the same with the left.

Medicine-Ball Twist

Lie on the floor while holding a medicine ball with both the hands with your face upwards. Bend your knees at right angle with your feet on the ground. Do an abdominal crunch by twisting your shoulders to your right while pulling the ball to the right side of your thighs; simultaneously, move your knees to the left. Get back to the initial position and do the same with the other side.