Aiming for the BEST Targets in a Self-Defense Situation!

When discussing self-defense for beginners and those new to the realm of self-protection, I'm often asked...

"If I just want to get out of there and need to shut this guy down fast, what are the best areas of his body to hit?"

I love questions like this, because it tells me that the person asking it is thinking "strategically" rather than simply mechanically. If you ask questions, not related as much to "what" it is that you can do but, "how," "where," "when," and "why"...

...it tells me that you're thinking about results, effectiveness, and efficiency...

...all signs of a true martial arts master or self-defense expert.

As I see it, there are seven body targets that are perfect for the beginnner to focus on if they're looking to be able to drop an assailant quickly and effectively. As a quick side-bar, let me also say that there are many ways of attacking each target and selecting the best one in an attack situation will take more than just knowing it's there.

That being said, here are the 'Dirty 7':

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  1. Nose - Nothing stops an assailant, or anyone else for that matter, like a quick shot to the nose - in ANY direction! Even a light shot instantly brings tears to the eyes and disorientation. And... NO! It's not generally considered a killing shot by 'real' experts!
  
  


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  2. Eyes - Human beings are generally sight-oriented creatures. And, our bodies are hard-wired to protect our eyes from even the slightest danger. Even the mere threat of attacking your opponent's eyes will have him changing his tactics as a minimum, and running for the hills as a best-case scenario!
  
  


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  3. Jaw/Tip of Chin - A well-placed palm-strike to the tip of the chin, or even a thumb-tip driven up under the jaw-line will send an attacker realing in pain or knock him out cold!
  
  


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  4. Throat - Just as with the eyes, our bodies are wired to protect the most vulnerable areas. The windpipe, arteries, and veins that pack the neck and throat area are all life-sustaining systems. And... they are exposed to the world and without their own defenses! A firm grab or sharp blow to any of these systems can shut an attacker down - permanently!
  
  


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  5. Sternum/Solar Plexus - The bottom tip of the sternum, or breat bone, is called the xyphoid process (pronounced "zie-foid"). It's a small, triangular shaped, boney protrusion that actually has some flex to it. It points at the top of the abdominal cavity which, itself, is sensitive. These defensive "alarm" triggers are there to warn the body of attacks to the heart, lungs, and other organs NOT protected by the ribs in this region. Even a light punch or kick to this area can leave the assailant breathless - or worse.
  
  


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  6. Groin - Do I really need to describe the effects of a grab, punch, or kick here? Didn't think so. However, it would be a good idea to get the notion that this is only effective against men, right out of your head!
  
  And finally...
  
  


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  7. Knees - That's right... the knees. Everyone seems to think the knees are only weapons and yet, size-for-size, they're one of the weakest joints in the human body. In fact, it only takes about 65 lbs of pressure to pop an adult knee joint. And I don't care if we're talking about mine, or Arnold Shwartzenagger's!
  
  Well, there you have it. A quick list of the best targets for quickly ending a self-defense attack. Now... all you have to do is learn "how," "when," "where," to attack.

When Can I Go Back To Work After A Knee Replacement?

Once you have your knee replaced then comes the rehabilitation period. This can last from six to ten weeks depending on your age, prior level of function and if there was any complications with the surgical procedure.

Today is not uncommon to hear people who are receiving knee replacements in their 30s, 40s, or 50s. With minimally invasive surgical techniques along with better technology with prosthetic components being developed, the number of younger adults having their knees replaced has grown tremendously without the fear of early prosthetic failure and other limitations that older knee components had in the past.

The time frame when you can get back to work after knee replacement surgery in most cases has already been discussed with your surgeon therefore, you will have a good idea when you can return to the workforce. There are considerations that have to be made of course, one of the biggest being your occupation. There are also factors that happen during your rehabilitation also that can dictate and influence when you may return to work and, if you are on schedule to return in the allotted time you have off for recovery.

One of the most important things you can do to help get yourself back to work as early as possible is to stay compliant with your exercise program that has been issued to you by your physical therapist. Generally this is not a problem with patients that have undergone an elective surgery. However, I have run across a patients that are not following the exercise protocol issued therefore sabotaging their results.

Also another problem that can slow you progress is trying to do too much to soon. After joint replacement surgery more is not better. By exercising your knee more than is recommended by your therapist is setting you up for a painful recovery, excess swelling and, prolonged physical therapy.

Also the type of surgical procedure will have an effect on the time frame that you can return to work. If your surgeon has cemented the prosthesis in, you will be weight-bearing a tolerated and allow to place as much weight as you can tolerate through your leg. This will allow you and your therapist to begin the full strengthening process as soon as possible. If your surgeon uses a non-cemented procedure, you will have weight-bearing precautions issued to you during rehabilitation and the healing process can be extended out another four to six weeks out. Your surgeon before the procedure, will have discussed this with you before your operation.

Depending on your occupation will also have a major part in the decision-making process. If you work at a desk for instance you should be back to work in six weeks. If you are in a job where you are on your feet all day you may be back in eight weeks.

To be on the safe side and allow for a full recovery, I would recommend you look forward to returning to work in eight weeks. Eight weeks allows for the pain issue to be completely resolved and the muscular endurance in your leg you develop at eight weeks out for the most part is enough to carry you through the day.

This of course will depend on your overall physical condition, age, and attitude during your recovery. With taking a consistent and disciplined approach to your rehabilitation, you will be back to work as fast as humanly possible.

What to Expect From a Clinic When Undergoing a Physical Examination

We've heard great physical examination stories out of every type of clinic we have come into contact with over the years. Back in the Vietnam days, some guys would stop bathing weeks before their physical so that when they showed up the doctor would think they were off their rockers. Guys would also rub copious amounts of toothpaste and oil into their hair to further the crazy look. In those days, just saying you preferred the same sex went a long way to "failing" a physical examination, thus many a clinic saw many a homosexual patient.

These days, however, a physical examination is performed not for war readiness, but more often for employment opportunities and/or attending a summer camp of choice. The Department of Motor Vehicles also requires a physical examination for certain types of licenses. No matter what the reason, one should know what is in store for them if they need to have a physical performed upon them at a clinic or doctor's office.

A physical examination is performed to evaluate the general health of the patient being tested. The techniques used by the doctor or clinic vary, but more often than not include tactile examination (the fingers and hands), percussive examination (wherein the doctor will tap with the fingers and listen), smell (there goes the not-bathing thing!), blood tests and other means.

Generally, a physical is used to determine a person's baseline health information that is very useful in a variety of ways both presently and in the future (when a status changes). A great time to ask questions directly to your clinic staff regarding your health is while undergoing a physical-and obviously, early detection and the addressing of any health problem that may be noticed early is beneficial to the patient.

As stated previously, there are a variety of ways to perform a physical examination, which each doctor able to concentrate a bit more precisely on their area of expertise and the requirement of the organization like The Department of Motor Vehicles. Yet there are general things that you should expect from any doctor or clinic performing your physical exam. These include:

• Examination of your vital signs. This includes the pulse, heart rate, blood pressure and temperature. Expect a stethoscope to be used, but remember to never scream into it because your doctor will hit you with the reflex hammer.

• Testing of the reflexes. Typically, that little hammer is utilized to test your reactions to certain actions performed by the doctor. This may include a gentle knock on the knee or other body part. Optical reflex tests may also be performed.

• Lymph nodes. The doctor will manually check for any enlarged glands or lymph nodes. The areas generally tested are the neck, under the arms and abdomen.

• Depending on the type of test requested, the clinic may test for drugs in a patient's system, or any specific ailment. These choices are made depending on the reason for the physical examination being performed. When one finds the right clinic or center, they can expect the doctor there to discuss all this with them.

Are You at Risk For Blood Clots?

Summer is once again here and many of my patients are traveling on vacations, or visiting friends and relatives across the country. Before they go, however, I like to give them some pre-travel advice about a potentially serious medical condition that can occur with long periods of sitting in cars, trains, and airplanes... blood clots.

Up to 600,000 Americans develop clots every year with 1 in 3 persons developing serious medical complications from them. I'd like to share with you the same advice I give my patients about the symptoms and risk factors for developing blood clots and how you can prevent them.

What Are Blood Clots?

They are clumps of debris or fat, coagulated blood, or even surgical materials, within veins. They can start in the legs and travel within the vein system to the brain, heart or lungs and cause a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism.

What Are The Symptoms of A Blood Clot?

The symptoms of a clot are varied, depending upon their origin, but almost always include sudden and/or severe pain at the site. All require immediate medical attention. Here's a list of the common types of clots and their symptoms:

Legs: Blood clots in the legs can often be overlooked as a pulled muscle, as they can feel like a "Charlie Horse" type of cramp. Look for swelling of the leg, warmth to touch, redness or bluish discoloration, pain.

Lungs: Sudden onset of shortness of breath. A stabbing, sharp chest pain that gets worse with deep breaths, fast heart beat and/or an unexplained cough that may contain blood.

Heart: A clot that has traveled to the heart will give the symptoms of a heart attack, severe, crushing-type chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Brain: A clot that has traveled to the brain is called an ischemic stroke, which is a blockage of blood flow. Its symptoms can include severe/sudden headache, confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, weakness on one side of the body, loss of balance or coordination/inability to walk, inability to speak or understand language.

Kidneys: Not as common as leg or lung blood clots, but kidney clots do occur. The symptoms are sharp pain in the lower back, usually on one side, inability to urinate, high blood pressure, retention of fluid, swollen ankles, and shortness of breath.

What Are The Risk Factors for Blood Clots?

Anyone can get a clot at any time, but generally the risks are highest with the following:

•Recent major surgery in the abdominal or pelvic area
•Prolonged bed rest in a hospital, nursing home over 3 days
•Knee and hip joint replacement
•Major trauma to the body such as an auto accident or serious fall
•Pregnancy, or recent childbirth

Other moderate, yet still very important, risks include:

•Age - over 65
•Smoking
•Long sitting during travel in a car, plane, train, bus
•Dehydration - inadequate water intake can cause blood to coagulate
•Under going chemotherapy
•Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
•Genetic predisposition
•Obesity/sedentary lifestyle

What Can I Do To Prevent Blood Clots?

Avoiding a blood clot involves reducing your risk factors where possible. In general, the following guidelines can help you prevent blood clots:

•Quit smoking. Period.
•If you travel for long periods, take an "exercise" break where you get up and walk around for several minutes every 2 hours of travel. This is easier to do in car or bus travel, not so easy in a plane or train. However, you can get up from your seat and walk to the restroom, and/or the club car once in a while. Shift your position in your seat, doing leg lift exercises, or ankle rotation exercises at your seat will also help.
•If you are overweight and sedentary, make some healthy, nutritional, diet changes and get up and exercise for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day. This can be done by taking a walk, riding a bike, Wii FIT in your living room, anything that gets you up and your blood moving.
•Stay hydrated! Drinking the correct amount of water everyday is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself for several reasons. Drink half your body weight in water every day, and a little more if you consume caffeine. Your blood needs water to stay at an optimum density which is not so thick as to form clots and not so thin as to run too freely and cause profuse bleeding if you cut yourself.
•Find out your clotting time. A simple blood test at your doctor's office can reveal if you have blood clotting issues present. You may need to make dietary changes (less vitamin K containing foods, take supplements that do not contain it) to help you prevent a clot from forming.
•Vitamin E - A low dose, 200 mg a day, can help prevent blood clots from forming.
•Hormones - if you take birth control pills and you are over the age of 35, you may want to consider another form of birth control. Similarly, if you are menopausal and on HRT, talk to your doctor about your risk for blood clots. Switch to physician-prescribed bioidentical hormones that have much lower risks for serious side effects than animal or synthetic derived hormones.

Blood clots can be scary business. Just knowing the symptoms of a blood clot can buy time in getting medical attention quickly. Though you may not be able to avoid certain high risk factors such as surgeries and/or prolonged hospital rest that may unexpectedly arise in your life, just trying your best to live a healthy lifestyle the rest of the time will help decrease your risk significantly. Happy, fun, and safe summer travels!

Educational Computer Games With Medical Themes

There are a huge number of educational computer games for kids. Some are online, some are designed for PC or consoles. This page focuses on some of the games with a science or medical element.

Kids love doctor, nurse and hospital games. As they get older, some will become interested in the science of health care and medicine. Treating sick animals in veterinary simulation games will engage children from a very young age and is another way to encourage an interest in science based learning.

Veterinary Games

Vet games are one of the most popular genres of simulation games on the net with an ever growing number of titles. Some vet games are highly realistic and follow the kinds of procedures a real vet adopts. Other games are aimed at younger children and foster a concern for the welfare of animals.

Legacy Games

Legacy have produced some of the most successful vet games and achieved wide popularity with Zoo Vet and Farm Vet. These games appeal most to young teens. In each game there are a wide range of animals to treat. Emphasis is on patient diagnosis followed by the correct selection and application of treatments.

In Zoo Vet, for example, there are several ways to examine each animal ranging from an ophthalmoscope to an x-ray machine. The animal can be monitored with a blood oxygen meter, a stethoscope and a thermometer. There are blood, urine and bacterial tests to administer. Diagnosis is made in a question and answer format with children entering the results of tests and eventually being led to a diagnosis. After this, treatment can begin. This might be the administration of medication or even surgery. For each successful treatment the player receives rewards like an office upgrade or an accolade.

Farm Vet follows a similar pattern of game play but also includes a large 3D world for the player to explore. There is also more emphasis on playing with the animal between treatments.

Paws and Claws

There are several titles available in the Paws and Claws series from Valusoft (for PC). They involve running a veterinary clinic in a variety of setting. Some settings are town based, some countryside based. Each has a large virtual world. There is less emphasis on strictly scientific investigation of animal illnesses and more on creating and running a clinic. Even so, there are many animals in need of simple treatments. Paws and Claws is suitable for younger children than the Legacy Games but has hooked many parents as well!

Petz Vet

This game is part of the popular Petz series and offers the chance to care for sick animals with problems like a broken leg, sunburn or asthma

Online Vet Games

There is range of games for online players. These are suitable for all ages with the emphasis much more on care, grooming and organizational skills (in a busy clinic, for example). There is a link below for online vet games.

Operation Games

Moving to the world of human medicine, there are many excellent online games available. Some of the best come from the Edheads team and have titles like' Virtual Knee Surgery' and 'Deep brain Stimulation'. These offer realistic operations in a cartoon-like format which are fact packed and engaging. The games come with teacher's notes and supporting material for use in an academic environment but teenagers find the games engrossing and will play them without any encouragement from educators!

There are also a number of heart surgery games from various charities and educational organizations.

A link for operation games can be found at the foot of this article.

PC Games with a Medical Theme

Medical simulation games have titles like 911 Paramedic. Hospital Tycoon, Sarahs's Emergency Room and Theme Hospital. Each has a particular focus. The Paramedic game is from Legacy games and has a diagnose, monitor and treat format. Hospital Tycoon and Theme Hospital are more comic than serious as you try to manage a large hospital and deal with (often difficult) patients and staff. Sarah's Emergency Room follows a nurse as she progresses through her first year in her job.

'The Sims' also offer a hospital game- but only in Sims 2. In 'The Sims 3 Lifetime Wishes' game, you can pursue the life and career (amongst many options) of World Renowned Surgeon!

Will these games encourage Children to be Vets, Doctors or Scientists?

They can certainly help you identify kids who have scientific interests. There is also plenty for kids to learn about important areas of life.

Knee Swelling - Is This Arthritis Or Something Else?

Are you having problems with painful knee swelling and wondering what in the world is going on? Well, if you are like one of millions of people who suffer from knee joint problems, this can be an on-going situation. Don't you think it's time to find out if your swollen knees are caused by osteoarthritis or something else?

Many people in today's society are living longer. Degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis, Parkinson's, and diabetes were not a big concern to researchers in the past because many people did not live past their 40's. Now a days, people are living well into their 60's and 70's and even into their 80's and 90's. They are wanting cures to these debilitating diseases so they can be healthy in their golden years and live free of pain.

The problem with a symptom like knee swelling is that it could be something other than arthritis. Knee inflammation happens when there is fluid build up or bleeding in the joint of the knee or around the joint. Many conditions can cause this namely osteoarthritis, knee joint infection, meniscus or ligament tear, bursitis, vitamin deficiencies and medication toxicity.

Bursitis for instance is a condition that happens when the bursa that surrounds the knee joint becomes swollen due to injury. A bursa is closed fluid filled sac that serves as gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues in the body. When the fluid filled sac around the knee becomes injured, it causes knee pain and inflammation.

Unlike bursitis, cartilage damage induced by arthritis causes fluid to accumulate in the knee joint instead of around the joint. So determining where the fluid is accumulating in the knee is key to a diagnosis. Vitamin C deficiency and toxicity from blood thinning medications like coumadin can cause blood to seep into the joints and tissues but these are less common conditions that can cause the knee to swell.

In the meantime, what can you do to decrease knee swelling. Getting an MRI is one way to determine what is causing knee inflammation. If it is an acute problem which is usually from an injury, an anti-inflammatory can be taken. However, if it is a long term condition such as osteoarthritis, you may want to consider a natural supplement with ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and ginger which decreases inflammation in the knee and rebuild cartilage.

Whatever you do don't allow knee swelling to continue. Talk with your health care professional. Continuous inflammation in the knee can lead to further knee damage down the road because the last thing you want to have to undergo is knee surgery.

Comparing Health Insurance Options Based on Life Stage

Never judge your private health insurance policy by its cover. Since private insurance plans differ vastly in the benefits they provide based on cost, policy holder need, and individual insurers, make sure the benefits your policy offers are the right benefits for you.

It should seem obvious that a young person in their 20's is going to have different medical insurance needs than his 55-year-old parents, and that his parents are going to have different coverage needs than their 75-year-old parents.

Yet all too often, Australians purchase or hang on to policies that they may have outgrown, or that may not be geared to their life stage, lifestyle and health issues. In turn, they may be either over-paying or under insured.

Comparing health insurance policies based on life stage is important in selecting the best coverage for your individual needs. For instance, parents with adult dependent children can carry coverage for them up to the age of 25, and can drop obstetrics coverage once they know that they won't be having any more children.

When comparing plans, make sure your needs are being identified by first considering which of the five general life stages you and your family fits into, and plan accordingly. Generally, these five stages include:

Singles - For young, healthy individuals, your health insurance should probably be geared toward emergencies such as injuries caused in an accident. If you become ill, your plan would need to cover ongoing treatments. You may need optical or dental coverage; selecting the right insurance coverage is a matter of comparing health policies and determining the level of coverage you want that fits your budget.

If you're a 20- or 30-something single, you probably won't need hip replacement surgery any time soon, but you should probably make sure you're covered for reproductive health issues if they arise, or treatment for sports injuries if you're active.

Young couples - Couples who have not yet started a family may compare health policies that include obstetrics and fertility treatments. Additionally, young couples sometimes face short-term or long-term illness of a partner. Your health insurance can provide financial security and the comprehensive level of care and treatment you will need if the unexpected happens.

Families - Whether you're planning to start a family, planning on having more children, or dealing with an illness or injury of a family member, your health insurance should provide the coverage you need to ease the financial crunch that medical costs can create. Choosing the best insurance plan for your family means taking into consideration the cost of hospital care, the physician or specialists that may be needed, and even after care. If yours is a young family with children aged infant to teen, it's important to have coverage that includes dental and orthodontic treatments.

Empty-nesters - This group can include individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, facing an increased risk of problems that are common as we get older. Heart disease, knee and hip replacements, elevated blood pressure, arthritis and other medical conditions begin to appear as we age. Your health insurance policy that has served you for years may no longer be suited to your lifestyle and needs. Review your existing coverage, and compare it to other health plans to make sure you're not paying for services you no longer need, and that you are protected for those health issues that begin popping up after 40.

Retirees - Australians 65 and over should consider keeping their private health coverage, since the government offers a 35 percent rebate on private coverage premiums; for individuals 70 and over, that rebate is increased to 40 percent.

Retirees who opt out of health coverage have up to three years to pick it back up; if it is not picked up within three years, your premium will cost an additional two percent for every year you are over 30.

Purchasing private health insurance can be confusing and expensive. The more comprehensive the coverage you choose, the more expensive it can get. Shop around and compare health insurance policies and premiums carefully before you buy. By thoroughly comparison shopping, you can cut as much as 30 percent off your health insurance premium.

A Knee Brace For Your Meniscus Injury - A Special Report on Effective Knee Supports

Do you have a meniscus injury?

From time to time, the knees that we rely on everyday can also cause us problems. Your knees have a very significant role in the body, and have to help carry our weight every time we move about.

Not only do our meniscii have the responsibility of helping to carry our body weight, but they also have to withstand the extra added force when we are lifting or carrying heavy items. When we are jumping, running and doing many other types of activities there is an extra strain placed on our knees.

The cartilage in the knees acts as a cushion to help protect the joint and bones of the leg. These meniscii act as a support system to help the bones of the leg that come together at the knee joint. They help the bones of the leg to not rub together or have friction. As we get older, this cartilage gradually begins to wear away. As the cartilage begins to age and become more brittle you are more apt to suffer a meniscal tear.

Symptoms of a meniscus tear often include pain in and around the knee joint. In addition to having knee pain a person can also suffer from stiffness of the knee, difficulty bending or straightening the leg, swelling around the joint and a popping or locking of the knee joint.

If you experience these symptoms for more than a couple of days, you should definitely go in and see your doctor. Often times your doctor will recommend a treatment plan, which can include the use of a well designed knee brace to help provide added knee support.

Knee braces are also commonly prescribed to help the patient protect the knee after a surgery as well. Knee supports can also be worn if a patient is prone to developing other knee injuries. They can especially help if a person wears them during a sport that they play or when they are doing an activity that could cause a knee injury to possibly develop.

We do not want you to have knee pain, but if you do, then you should address it head on before your problems can get worse. Knee braces can provide meaningful support if you have a meniscus injury. The support that they can help provide can make you think that you just found your new best friend. - When it is time to for you to get a knee brace then it is wise to go to a brace specialist as well.

The Human Knee Joint - Part 4

Uncontrolled movements of the knee due to a lack of muscular control expose the knee to increased stresses and the knee and its cartilages (menisci) may suffer damage. One of the functions of the menisci is to control the large condyles of the femur as they move across the flat upper tibial surface and without this guidance there can be meniscal damage. The powerful condyles can move over the edges of the menisci, trapping them against the upper tibia and causing damage to their cartilaginous structure.

The types of damage pattern which can occur in the menisci vary and include the development of tears, splits and bites out of the edge. A "bucket handle tear" can develop if the condyle causes a circumferential split in the meniscus whilst the ends of the tear remain attached to the rest of the meniscus. An unplanned movement such as twisting and turning can damage a meniscus and dislodge a part of it into the joint as a loose body. This can move around inside the knee and jam between the surfaces of the joint, causing sharp pain and a giving way of the knee when it is weight bearing.

Ongoing degenerative changes in the menisci mean the condyles of the femur are less controlled and this heightens the stresses which are placed across the knee between the condyles. The articular cartilage surfaces can also degenerate in response to the increased stresses and this may lead to the development of osteoarthritis. If the meniscus was troublesome in the past the usual technique, before arthroscopy developed, was to remove the entire meniscus, which commonly lead to arthritic changes later in life. Knee problems lead to medial quadriceps wasting and a lot of treatments are prescribed to counteract this.

It is important to look at the accessory movements and the ranges of motion of the knee if strengthening is going to be effective for the inside quadriceps. The knee can be improved functionally by restoring the joint's accessory movements and the ability of the medial quadriceps to function will be greatly enhanced by restoring knee extension. Muscle strengthening exercises will not be effective without the joint's range being restored. The introduction of slim modern arthroscopes for knee surgery has meant easy visualisation of the knee interior and the ability to do the surgical minimum to achieve the desired goal.

Osteoarthritis is one of the commonest joint conditions in the world, affecting hundreds of millions of people and occurring almost universally to some degree in elderly people. A family history, meniscal surgery, joint trauma or ligament injury can all predispose the joint to later osteoarthritis. Damage to and stretching of either the medial or lateral ligaments can cause some sloppiness of the control of movement in the knee, causing increased forces to be generated across the joint and contribute towards articular surface breakdown. Shearing movements, causing a lateral stress as the joints are in contact, exert high forces on the surfaces.

The knee can start to develop a grating or clicking as it ages with small degrees of degeneration and is only painful if kept in one position for excessive periods. The joint capsule can become tighter if we do not perform the strong movements any longer which stress the joint to the ends of its ranges. This can increase joint compression which increases the stresses across the joint surfaces and make the joint more likely to be injured during stressful movements. As the process continues the cartilage wears down and the underlying bone, which normally has some elasticity, becomes denser and harder.

The symptoms of an osteoarthritic knee are typically pain, increased temperature, range of motion limitation, oedema, enlargement, joint crepitus and inability to do functional tasks. As the joint deteriorates it can go through cycles of pain and swelling, with walking become more restricted. Due to the difficulty of finding a comfortable resting position sleeping may become a challenge. Tenderness of the medial joint line means that pressure from another knee is not well tolerated in sleeping on the side, meaning a pillow is often required to allow comfortable resting.

Gouty Arthritis Symptoms - Oh My Aching Big Toe!

Gouty Arthritis - Do You Have It?

The joints in your big toe have been hurting really bad, and you've noticed that it has turned warm, red, and seems to be swelling. For a while, you ignore the pain, and thankfully it disappears for a while, only to come back at odd times with a vengeance. If you're no longer too young, but just young at heart, then chances are, you may want to go see your doctor and ask if you might have symptoms of gouty arthritis.

This kind of arthritis is just one of the more than 100 types of diseases in this category. However, gouty arthritis is one of the most painful among these and is caused by needle-like crystals of uric acid that form in your joints (usually, in this disease, the big toe, although other joints can be affected as well, like the heel, elbow, knees, wrists, fingers, etc.). So, if you can imagine those "needle-like crystals" pricking your joints, then you can understand why there is so much pain involved in this disease.

Gouty arthritis has four stages, namely:

1.Asymptomatic - At this stage, the person may have tested to have elevated levels of uric acid, probably in a general medical screening, but is not experiencing any pain in any joints. The doctor usually will not prescribe any treatment at this stage, but may suggest some diet changes to prevent the condition from worsening.

2.Acute Gout - At this stage, the person begins to feel pain, and swelling and redness of the joints, leading to what is called as a "gouty attack". These attacks can happen intermittently. It is a good idea to visit your doctor once you feel any acute pain in the joint area to prevent the disease from progressing.

3.Interval - This is the "interval" between gouty attacks, when a person is not experiencing any pain at the moment. Many people mistakenly think that the worst is over when they are in an interval stage and refuse to visit the doctor. What they don't know is that this is exactly what it is named, an interval, and there may be an attack waiting just around the corner.

4.Chronic Gout - When there is no or very short interval between attacks, and there is already permanent damage to the joints. Constant pain medication is needed for this type of gout and it is essential that a physician oversee this disease at this stage. If proper treatment is adhered to in the Acute Gout stage, then one may never progress to this stage.

How is Gouty Arthritis diagnosed?

If you think you are already are experiencing the attacks, when you visit the doctor, then chances are, he may ask for any one or all of the following tests:

1.Synovial Fluid Analysis - Synovial (joint) fluid is extracted from your joints through a sterilized needle inserted in the space. The fluid has a straw-like color and is then analyzed in a lab. Normally, joint fluids that look cloudy or is thick may be abnormal.

2.Uric Acid Test - This is done through a simple blood test taken from a vein or capillary. The blood is then tested for levels of uric acid. If it is high then it will confirm gouty arthritis

3.Joint X-ray - An x-ray of the joint may also be needed to properly see how the arthritis has progressed in the area.

How is Gouty Arthritis treated?

Treatment of gouty arthritis is usually geared toward immediate relief and stopping the pain and inflammation that come with the attacks. Medication is also given to prevent future attacks.

One of the drugs prescribed to reduce the pain, inflammation and swelling is Colchicine and often makes the pain settle in 12 to 48 hours. This medication decreases the inflammation and therefore the pain, but it does not alter the uric acid levels in the blood, although daily use of it helps to prevent subsequent attacks.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be effective if it is taken at the onset of the pain.

At times, a diet low in purines is given to lessen the uric acid levels. Some foods that may have to be abstained from are beef, pork, poultry, fish, shellfish, gravy, soda pop, beer, wine, etc.

Both Fuse Ankle & Knee Replacement - Before and After Surgery

Many people wonder what the purpose of ankle fusion is. What it does is remove the surface of the ankle joint by connecting bones with metal rods to allow the tibia, which is your larger lower leg bone, and the talus, which is the highest bone in your foot, to grow together.

This operation can be performed in many joints of the body where painful join pain is debilitating. Before joint replacement options became available, this was the operation of choice. Still, joint fusion is sometimes the best choice. In some instances, a person will need both fuse ankle and knee replacement surgery. In this case, there are a few preparatory steps you should take before going into the operation.

Before the decision to go under the knife is unalterably decided, both the surgeon and the patient must agree it is the best course of action. If you have any questions or concerns, prior to the surgery will be the time to ask them. Both fuse ankle and knee replacement surgeries are serious and permanent decisions. Before the surgery, your surgeon may recommend a checkup to be performed by your regular doctor. It is important that everything is in order with your overall physical healthy before going into surgery. The night before the operation, be sure that you do not eat or drink anything past midnight or in the morning prior to the procedure.

After surgery, if only a fusion of the ankle has occurred, it will be wrapped in a padded plaster cast for two weeks and replaced with a short-leg cast after that. You must not put any pressure on your ankle until it is apparent that fusing is occurring. This could easily take eight to twelve weeks. If you have both fuse ankle and knee replacement surgeries, you can expect to be off your feet for even longer. To help in the recovery process, basic practices can be performed like elevating the leg while sleeping.

There is more you can do, however, to increase your recovery time, decrease and eventually eliminate pain, and restore full use to your legs. The knowledge comes from an expert in the area that has received two knee replacement surgeries and is well aware of the pain and recovery time that accompanies such an operation. The secrets are being revealed now, so if you are ready to jump back into life totally pain free,Then you have so much more to learn!

While there have been great advances in medical technology, a successful outcome is determined by the patient's attitude and willingness to do the necessary therapy. Based on their experience, many doctors have somewhat low expectations for recovery and may not be very encouraging. It is up to the patient to find and follow an exercise program that has already shown proven results. Equally important is finding a trainer or mentor who has a positive attitude toward recovery from knee surgery and who can teach anyone the same mindset. Believing it can be done and working with someone who has already achieved the desired results is the key to returning to normal activities and remaining free from pain.

Using Lumbar Knee Pillows Can Help Ease Your Pain Right Now

There are a lot of individuals that have trouble sleeping at night due to various kinds of pain. At times this could be made better through the utilization of a special pillow. They are designed to prop up specific parts of your body. One of these specialty pillows is the lumbar knee pillow.

They are wedge shaped and they help keep your legs from swelling because they help decrease the blood flow to your lower legs.

When you are asleep if you could keep your body in position you are sure to get a significantly better night's sleep. You have to bear in mind that you will not be able to use just any old decorative throw pillow to line up your body. It should be a special lumbar pillow that is made especially for your knees. This is vital if you are using it to help get rid of your pain. And less pain means just one thing, and that is a better night's sleep.

After having a good night's sleep you ought to wake up feeling refreshed, as well as prepared to meet the day. This will assist both your mental outlook and physical well-being during the day.

In case you don't get sufficient rest it could lead to health problems. This is not good for you and could lead to more serious issues in the event that you don't take care of it. Even if your back and knee pain happens mainly during the day, a lumbar knee pillow could still help your sleeping patterns.

Obviously in the event that you attempt making use of one of these knee pillows, and they do not mend your knee or back problems then you should probably see a doctor about your knee or back pains. They could advise you on the best course of action to help you relieve your pain.

Therefore you are probably wondering just where you could purchase a lumbar pillow. You will be glad to know they are available in many places. You could shop online or even go to a local store that concentrates on specialty pillows.

Although some brands are more affordable than others, make sure you do your research prior to purchasing just any old knee pillow. You are certain to find one that will fit in your budget. Yet there is no reason to waste your hard earned money. Look for sales as well as deals.

Searching for a lumbar knee pillow does not have to be tough, and they certainly could help ease your back pain right now.

Arthritis Treatment: Approach to Ankle Pain

Ankle pain, while not as frequent as pain in the knee, is a common problem. The difficulty lies in making a diagnosis because chronic "ankle pain" covers a wide variety of disorders, each of which requires a customized approach.

A chronic ankle problem should be differentiated from an acute injury. An acute ankle injury is not hard to diagnose. For example, ankle sprains are usually an inversion injury (the foot turns in) and there is damage to the outside (lateral ligaments) of the ankle. While usually mild, some injuries can be more severe with significant injury occurring in the anterior talofibular ligament. A significant percentage of those patients who have this injury go on to develop osteoarthritis of the ankle. It is important that if there is evidence of significant damage to the anterior talofibular ligament, that an MRI scan be obtained.

Patients with chronic ankle pain where there is crunching when the ankle is moved almost always have osteoarthritis of the ankle and this is usually a result of recurrent injury of the inversion type. While the standard programs of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and glucocorticoid injections can provide temporary relief, patients may need more aggressive treatment using platelet-rich plasma and/or mesenchymal stem cells.

Pain developing on the outside of the ankle beneath the lateral malleolus (the bump on the outside of the ankle) usually is due to tendonitis involving the peroneal tendon. An MRI will confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consists of ultrasound guided needle tenotomy with platelet-rich plasma. Another condition that causes pain on the outside of the ankle joint is sinus tarsi syndrome. This is an inflammatory condition affecting the joint between the talus (upper ankle bone) and the calcaneus (heel bone). Treatment here involves ultrasound guided glucocorticoid injection and splinting.

Pain in the back of the ankle, particularly if it can be localized to the Achilles tendon is due to Achilles tendinopathy. This is a degenerative condition involving the Achilles tendon and is frequently seen in aging athletes. The danger here is this condition can lead to Achilles rupture. MRI can confirm the diagnostic impression. If there is no tear, ultrasound guided needle tenotomy with platelet-rich plasma can be curative.

Pain the back of the ankle joint usually signifies an arthritic component involving a bone called the os trigonum.

Pain along the inside of the ankle joint can be due to a few things. The first is a problem with the deltoid ligament. Another potential situation is caused by an extra bone- called an accessory navicular. Pain with toeing off at the front/middle part of the ankle joint is caused by pinching between the talus and the tibia (lower leg bone). All of these situations are complicated in regards to treatment.

Pain occurring below and in back of the medial malleolus (bump along the inside of the ankle) is usually due to tendonitis involving the posterior tibial tendon. This can be treated with ultrasound guided needle tenotomy with platelet-rich plasma along with short term splinting.

Osteoarthritis - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis, is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. Most cases of osteoarthritis are age related and have no known cause; and are referred to as having primary osteoarthritis. This is due to loss of protein in the cartilage as an ageing process, which eventually leads to degeneration of the cartilage and of the joint. Secondary osteoarthritis is caused by other diseases or conditions which usually include obesity, repeated trauma or surgery to the joints, congenital abnormalities, gout, diabetes and other hormonal disorders. Swelling, pain and stiffness of the joints are common symptoms of this condition, which usually affects the hands, feet, spine and large weight bearing joints such as the hips and the knees.

The Ayurvedic treatment of osteoarthritis is aimed at reducing the symptoms and slowing down the basic pathology of the disease. To reduce pain, swelling and stiffness, medicines used are: Triphala-Guggulu, Yograj-Guggulu, Punarnavdi-Guggulu, Maha- Rasnadi-Guggulu, Maha-Rasnadi-Qadha, Dashmoolarishta, Maha-Vat-Vidhwans-Ras, Vat-Gajankush-Ras, Agnitundi-Ras, Vishwa (Zinziber officinalis), Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), Kuchla (Strychnos nuxvomica) and Guggulu (Commiphora mukul). Medicated oils like Vishgarbha oil, Mahanarayan oil and Mahasaindhav oil are used for local application on the affected joints. This is followed by a medicated steam fomentation of the affected areas using decoctions like Nirgundi-Qadha and Dashmool-Qadha. This procedure is called 'Naadi-Sweda', and is very useful in reducing pain and swelling of the affected joints.

In order to halt or slow down the progress of the disease, efforts have to be made to repair the damaged cartilage of the weight bearing joints. Medicines like Trayodashang-Guggulu, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Sinhanaad-Guggulu, Laxadi-Guggulu, Shankh-Bhasma, Praval-Panch-Amrut and Asthishrunkhala (Cissus quadrangularis) are used for this purpose. These medicines have to be given for prolonged periods, sometimes up to two years in order to have a good therapeutic effect. Patients who do not respond satisfactorily to these medicines are given, in addition, medicated enemas of a special medicine called 'Tikta Ksheer Basti', which consists of milk boiled with several medicines. Repeated courses of this enema have to be given for several months.

It is important to treat obesity and other conditions associated with osteoarthritis. The use of a walking stick helps to relieve pain in a vast majority of people having mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Regular activities like swimming, walking and yogic asanas can help to reduce pain and stiffness in the joints.

Exercise - The Best Treatment For Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain is located at the lower part of the back, a small joint on both sides of the spine at the pelvis junction, supporting the spine and hips. Often leading to pain radiating down the buttocks or back of the thigh, females are more susceptible to sacroiliac joint pain by a 2:1 ratio. The Si area has very little movement to it, if any, with the hip points often causing pain in the individual's groin or disc pain mimicking SI pain.

Any injury or sacroiliac joint inflammation in this area tremendously affects body movement as it is a joint that transfers the upper body weight to the lower body. Simple activities such as walking up-and-down the stairs or reaching overhead in cupboards can become severely affected. Current evaluations or treatments of any sacroiliac dysfunctions are controversial - ranging from surgery to exercises.

Too often patients with painful SI joint problems are told their pain is coming from the SI joint, instead of the real culprits - the sacroiliac joint ligaments and surrounding highly innervated tissues. For this reason, surgery fuses the joint because of a misdiagnosis of "abnormal joint mobility." However, pain is still felt by 50% of all patients who have had the SI joint surgery.

Neutralizing the spine to begin SI exercises

As an alternative to surgery, it has been found that conservative therapy or special exercises work well with SI joint's inflammation or injury problems. Before beginning any strengthening exercises for sacroiliac joint pain, it is necessary to do a warm-up and neutralize the spine to avoid further pelvic alignment. If not, the faulty alignment will become even more misaligned and cause more pain.

• Standing - Check the status of the lower back by placing the shoulder blades and buttocks and against a flat wall to check on the position of the lower back, as an arch between the lower black and the wall - which is the normal position. To neutralize the spine, stay in the same position but push the center of the back toward the wall.
• Lying down - lie down on a soft mat with knees bent. Arms should be at the side with feet placed apart about a hip width. Create an arc by moving the body upward, drawing the middle back area down while keeping the spine in a normal position. On the mat the blades of the shoulder should be pushed flat, while drawing the chin downwards toward the chest while leaving a size of the fist.
• Sitting - press the buttocks toward the seated chair's back with the spine placed directly on top of the seat area. Directly in line will be the collarbone over the hip bones, with the breastbone over the tailbone/pubic bone area. Draw the navel gently inward.

Sacroiliac joint pain exercises

The wall squats are simple exercises for working with sacroiliac (SI) joint pain. The basic position is to stand in neutral (see above) while learning on the wall - feet placed at a distance of a thigh length. Bend the knees at an angle of no less than 90 degrees, keeping the body's weight evenly on both heels. The kneecaps need to be lined with the 2nd toe of each foot. Remember that the shoulder blades, buttocks, middle back, and shoulder blades should be kept flat on wall at all times while bending and lifting. Repetition: 8 to 12 times, three times a week.

Another exercise for sacroiliac joint pain is the pelvic clock, practiced while on the mat with a neutral spine (see above) and bent knees. Imagine the hours of a clock (3 o'clock and 9 o'clock are the hips; 6 o'clock is the tailbone; and 12 o'clock is the navel). Moving the pelvis only while keeping the knees immobile, move the center of the body clockwise and then repeat counter-clockwise. Repetition: 8 to 12 times every other day (do two to three sets on those days).

What People With Arrhythmias Must Know About Pacemakers

It is not unusual for a person who finds out that he or she (or a loved one) needs a pacemaker to feel suddenly isolated and alone. There is not a great deal of information online, either. But here's a surprise. Pacemakers have helped literally millions of people all over the world for the past five decades.

But you probably do not know a lot about pacemakers. There isn't a lot of information about them, even online.

First of all, pacemakers may seem like some futuristic, bionic device, but they've actually been around for over 50 years. That's right, I Love Lucy was not yet in re-runs when the first pacemakers were implanted.

Second, pacemakers have proven themselves to be a safe, effective technology. The pacemaker is implanted in your upper chest; an insulated wire is passed through a vein into your heart. The wire is plugged into the pacemaker, which then delivers electricity (not drugs or artificial ingredients) to your heart. They send the heart tiny amounts of electricity.

A healthy heart produces electrical impulses on its own. If you need a pacemaker, it is likely because your heart does not produce these electrical impulses fast enough or conduct the electricity through the heart muscle quickly enough to keep your heart going at the right rate. The pacemaker just "fills in the missing beats" by sending electricity to the heart. Electricity is electricity, after all.

Pacemakers are tiny devices about the size of a pocket watch. They are made of titanium, a lightweight metal that doctors call "biocompatible." This means it is compatible with the human body; the body does not react to it or reject it.

It is hermetically sealed and runs on a battery. In fact, most of the interior real estate of a pacemaker is taken up by a lithium-iodide battery.

Your pacemaker is designed to run for years on that battery! How long the device actually lasts depends on many factors but the doctor can help you predict it. Pacemaker patients go for checkups at least twice a year, and part of the checkup will tell you how the battery is doing.

The miracle of the pacemaker battery is that it does not just suddenly conk out like a flashlight battery. Instead, it operates at full capacity and can signal the device (and the doctor will know how to get this information) when it is starting to wear out. You will have some "grace" time to schedule your replacement.

When a pacemaker wears out, you don't replace the battery. First of all, most of the device is the battery and it's hermetically sealed. Instead, doctors go back and remove the old pacemaker and replace the new one. The leads or wires are unplugged but left in place. When the new pacemaker is implanted, the old leads are plugged into the new device.

Replacement surgery or "pacemaker revision" as it sometimes called is a much faster procedure than the first implant. In fact, it is often done on an outpatient basis.

Surgery to implant a pacemaker may seem scary, but for your hospital team it is a fairly simple procedure. In medical terms, it's called "minimally invasive" because the incision needed is quite small. It is typical for a pacemaker to be implanted in a cardiac catheterization or electrophysiology lab rather than a full-blown operating room.

As the patient, you may be surprised to find out that the doctors prefer you to be awake. You will be draped (that is, you won't be able to see where they make the incision) and given some sedatives to relax you, but most pacemaker recipients do not require full anesthesia.

You will get some numbing medicine for your chest. A small incision is made and a spot is created just under the skin and tissue for the pacemaker. A tiny incision is made in a vein and the insulated wire is passed through the vein and into your heart.

This wire is called a "lead" and you may get one, two or even three of them, depending on the type of pacemaker you get.

Interestingly, it is the lead that takes most of the time during your implant procedure. The doctor gently advances the lead through the vein. He and the rest of the implant team (you'll have several people in the room with you besides the doctor) will observe what's happening on monitors. They use a large device called a fluoroscope to get video X-rays which show how the lead is navigating its way into your heart.

Once in the heart, the doctor needs to get it to attach or "fixate." It is not very hard to fixate the lead, but some parts of the heart conduct electricity better than others. This is highly individual, so the doctor is going to want to test the first landing site to see how good it is. This is done using a small hand-held device that sends a small amount of electricity through the heart to force it to beat.

You will not feel this at all. However, you may notice when this is going on, because it can be quite loud. The doctor is busy looking at where the lead is fixated while some member of his team is busy testing the lead. People are going to be calling out numbers, even shouting across the room. Somebody else is probably watching the EKG (that's another monitor) and may shout out more numbers. If you don't know what's going on, it can be confusing or even disconcerting.

Once the doctor fixates the lead(s), the other end of the wire is plugged into the pacemaker, the pacemaker is placed in the little space in your chest, and the incision is sewn up. The whole procedure can take up to two or three hours (depending on how many leads are used and your individual case) but it may be less.

Most pacemaker patients need a few days to recover and then a few weeks before they can resume their old activities. While there may be a few restrictions on pacemaker patients, most people feel better than they did before and report that they can actually do more even with a few restrictions.

Right after your implant, you will likely be asked to see your doctor a few times. This is to check on the surgical incision and run some preliminary tests and make adjustments to your pacemaker.

Once the initial phase is completed and your system is stable, the doctor will give you a plan for regular checkups, typically once a quarter or every six months. Please make every effort to keep these appointments, even if all the doctors end up telling you is that you're doing just fine.

That's because your pacemaker can report or communicate to the doctor about how it is doing, suggest adjustments that may help it to work better, and will tell you how much service life is in the battery.

Millions of people have pacemakers. You may even know some people who have them that just never mentioned them. That's because many pacemaker patients report that after a while, they "forget" about the device. With no pills to remember and only occasional doctors' appointments, it's pretty easy to forget about this silent servant.

Treatment of a Torn Medial Meniscus

Usually after the knee joint begins to degenerate from wear and tear and osteoarthritis slowly sets in, you have a patient walk into your office, unable to straighten out his/her knee. Several reasons contribute to this. One of the more common causes is a tear in the medial meniscus. The menisci have a front or anterior horn and a back or posterior horn. Certain tears may cause the anterior horn of the meniscus to spread forward and be displaced from its regular moorings. This can be felt like a small bump in the space between the tibia and femur, medially on the inside of the knee joint.

Treatment would include the following steps, as in the teachings of Jean-Pierre Barral: The patient lies on his/her back. You place the foot of the patient's affected side on your shoulder for Steps (1) and (2). In Steps (3) and (4) the patient's leg is treated lying straight on the table.

(1) Gently grip the upper border of the tibia with both hands and follow the motion of the knee as it rotates. It does so, first inward then outward.

(2) Next, continue to grip the upper border of the tibia. This time, make firm yet gentle contact both the sides of the knee cap, with both your thumbs, along the knee joint line. Gently but very firmly (without causing pain), nudge the protruding anterior horn back into its original space, using a series of knee bends/straightenings. This usually completely straightens the knee.

(3) The knee cap is usually displaced laterally, in these cases. Lift the knee cap upward and pull/push it gently toward the inside of the knee.

(4) Now open up the back of the knee. Stretching the muscles (in this case the semi-membranosus tendon) from medial to lateral side does the trick. Gently grip the back of the knee with both hands, while holding the knee cap in place with both thumbs and stretch outward, each hand away from the other.

(5) This is a good time to tape the knee with KinesioTape, pulling the knee cap lateral to medial to maintain the tracking achieved earlier.

(6) Exercising the knee with gentle knee presses down into the table, is best done now. I advice my patients to do these "24/7".

(7) Finally I do a release of the lower back and spine using craniosacral techniques to afford complete relief.

(8) The patient is then shown a series of home exercises to maintain the range achieved and to strengthen both knees, in order to reduce the strain pattern developing in the normal leg.

Pain Coping Techniques During Labor

Child birth can be a long and painful experience. If you do not plan properly for the pain and how to deal with it, it can become an overwhelming and scary experience as well. If you are pregnant and growing close to your due date, then you will want to discuss your various pain management options with your doctor or midwife. This information on a wide range of pain coping techniques during labor can help you determine what options your feel would be a good fit for your birth plan.

What Kind of Pain Can You Expect?

Initial pain during labor is not that intense. In fact, you will likely experience menstrual like cramps during the first stage of labor and pain management is not generally needed or administered during this time. As your contractions strengthen, you will experience more intense pain in your abdomen, back and groin area as the baby descends and your muscles continue to contract.

When you get ready to push, the vaginal wall and muscles will also begin to stretch, which will cause pain. Intense pressure on the bladder or bowels could also cause ongoing pain in the abdomen or back as well. Some women are better equipped to deal with the pain and may need little to no pain intervention, while others will have a more prolonged and difficult birth experience that may require the use of several pain relieving methods.

Natural Childbirth Pain Coping Techniques

Some women opt to go through the process of childbirth naturally. Just because you choose natural labor, does not mean that there are not pain relief methods available to you. While these techniques will not get rid of your pain, the will help you deal with it and push through it. Most of these exercises are centered on helping you stay calm and work through the pain to give birth to your baby. Some common natural pain management options include:

• Deep Breathing - Even if you end up choosing other medical pain relief options later on in your laboring process, deep breathing exercises can help you block and manage your pain. By focuses on your breathing, you are redirecting your mind's attention from the pain.


• Specific Birthing Techniques - There are specific techniques such as the Lamaze and The Bradley Method that are taught in birthing classes to help women deal with the pain of labor. Lamaze is the most commonly taught practice and focuses on items such as relaxation strategies, distraction, massage and breathing to help women block and push through the pain.

These types of well rounded methods are the most popular natural childbirth pain coping techniques.

• Walking - During early stages of labor, a woman may find walking soothing and a welcomed distraction from the pain. Since you must focus on your steps and staying upright while walking, it keeps your body from focusing only on the feelings of pain.


• Utilizing Different Positions - From squatting to sitting on a birthing ball or even staying on your hands and knees, there are many different positions that you can use while in labor to take the pressure off of certain parts of your body and help relieve pain. Finding a position that is right for you could take some trial and error, but if your pain is difficult to get through, trying a new position may help.


• Analgesics - Analgesics or pain medications like morphine are used in a variety of situations during labor. Sometimes, a woman will enter childbirth thinking that she will do it naturally. If a roadblock is met or a complication arises that makes the labor progress more slowly, morphine may be given when an epidural is not an option.

In other cases, a woman have a physical condition that makes the use of a block or other childbirth pain coping techniques unsafe and analgesics are used as an alternative. While not a widely used measure anymore, because of the drugs possible effect on the baby, these medications are still administered as pain relief measures in some cases.

Epidurals and Blocks

By far, epidurals and other forms of nerve blocks have become the most popular form of childbirth pain coping techniques in recent years. More and more women are opting to receive the epidurals in order to numb the pain and go through labor in a relatively painless state. Nerve blocks are also used in the majority of c-sections as well.

A thin catheter is placed into the back and sends a continuous flow of medication into the spinal column in order to block sensation in women from the belly button down. Usually not given before a woman reaches 4cm and is in active labor, epidurals must also have ample time to be prepared. If your labor has progressed quickly and you are past a certain point when you arrive at the hospital this pain management method may not be an option for you.

General Anesthesia

When it comes to childbirth pain coping techniques, this is the one that is used least often. General anesthesia is only used during labor in rare, emergency situations. If you are progressing through labor and a complication arises, such as a baby presenting breach or bottom down instead of head down, an emergency c-section could be ordered. The same is true for when babies or mothers suddenly go into distress due to a variety of other complications.

General anesthesia will put the woman to sleep, but it will often also affect the baby and knock them out as well. That is why it is reserved only for those situations that qualify as an emergency.

If you are facing labor and delivery soon, then it is best to be prepared and determine what childbirth pain coping techniques you would like to utilize. Making yourself aware of the options available to you will help you be prepared for the birth of your child and will make you less apprehensive. The information above can help you sift through the various options and choose a technique that will work best for your needs.

Inflammation of Knees - Treatment Tips For Conventional and Alternative Care

Inflammation of knees is initially treated with cold compresses and elevation. To reduce pain, the cold compresses can be alternated with a heating pad. If the knee is chronically inflamed, there are other treatments to consider.

In order to determine which treatments to use, it is helpful to identify the underlying cause of the problem. It could be a form of arthritis.

Conventional practitioners typically treat arthritis with pain-relieving medications. Alternative practitioners have different suggestions.

Acupuncture has proven to be beneficial in some studies; acupressure is another alternative. Massage and herbs are other tactics used by traditional Chinese practitioners.

Ayurvedic practitioners recommend a variety of different tactics for treating painful conditions. Masks or poultices containing warming or cooling herbs are sometimes applied to the area. Yoga and meditation are recommended to keep the joints mobile and the muscles relaxed.

Herbal remedies are used in all forms of alternative medicine. It is just the kind of herb that is different. In Chinese medicine, clematis, angelica and other roots are used. In Ayurveda, ginger and turmeric are commonly prescribed.

Dietary changes may be recommended by any traditional healer for reducing inflammation of knees. Weight loss may be necessary, because the more you weigh, the more stress there is on the joints.

Certain foods contribute to the production of inflammatory hormones, while others have anti-inflammatory activity. The usual suggestion is to include more fruits and vegetables, except for corn and some of the sweeter fruits. Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that can help to prevent a chronic inflammatory condition.

But, the single most important dietary component in terms of inflammatory health problems is excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids and inadequate consumption of omega-3s. If you eat a lot of beef, pork and poultry, your diet may be the cause of inflammation of knees, especially if no other cause can be found.

The mass production of food may have prevented starvation and some nutritional deficiencies, but it may also be responsible for the obesity epidemic and the increased incidence of type II diabetes. Research suggests that the number of people with type II diabetes will continue to rise if people do not change the way that they eat.

Feeding livestock grain, primarily corn, has changed the fatty acid composition in beef and chicken. Dietary preferences towards beef or chicken and away from fish or seafood are problems too.

A good way to reduce inflammation of knees naturally is to reduce your intake of omega-6s found in beef, dairy and poultry, while increasing your intake of omega-3s found in seafood and fish. Another good idea is to take a daily fish oil supplement.

Research has shown that fish oil supplements reduce pain and morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory condition. Animal studies indicate that fish oil is beneficial for osteoarthritis too. This natural treatment is much safer and could be just as effective as drug therapy, as long as you choose a good brand of fish oil.

For treating inflammation of knees, you want fish oil that has proven anti-inflammatory benefits. Only the best manufacturers have had the potency of their products tested.

Partial Knee Replacement Longevity

Having partial knee replacement surgery is a surgery that now not only decreased your pain but has allowed you to get back into the game we call life. The question on longevity of the knee replacement now comes into question and the best way to take care of it. Lifestyle changes are the number one factor that is promoted to get as much use out of it as possible. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight through diet and exercise are the keys.

It is well known today that are bodies as we age run much better by living a disciplined life through consuming a thought out diet and exercise program. For your partial knee replacement to operate properly your choice of food you consume comes into play to keep the weight off our knee.

Changing your choice of food consumption does not have to involve strict dieting. In fact the word diet for most has a negative connotation with it. To lose weight you can begin by making sure your food choices involve eating a high fiber diet along with cutting back on high fat food content like red meat and sugar laden foods. More fruit and vegetables along with items such as chicken and fish make it much easier to lose weight. By sticking to food items such a these you begin to develop the habit of eating them on a consistent basis and, also start to notice profound changes in body weight and appearance.

Making sure you get the most out of your partial knee replacement not only involves eating cleaner but, also exercise and strength training should play a vital role. Doing one without the other will not get you the results you want out of the replacement. By keeping not only your entire body strong through weight training but more importantly your surgical leg, you develop a stronger area around the prosthesis. Weight training exercises such as seated leg extensions and hamstring curls are just two exercises that develop not only the quadriceps but, the hamstring muscles that play a large part of keeping your knees operating properly and efficiently.

By eating cleaner with foods that your body can use for proper fueling and, exercise to keep not only your entire body strong but most importantly your legs after knee surgery,you will assure yourself that you are helping to enhance the longevity of the knee replacement. By combining both diet and exercise together you then are on the path to knee health prosperity.

Finding Your Digital Security Swing - How Knee Surgery Helps Secure Your Assets

Earlier this month Lucas Glover won the 2009 US Open Golf Championship. Although a remarkable victory, my attention was fixed on Tiger Woods. As the Beth Page rains piqued his swing I couldn't help but recall his thrilling victory at Torrey Pines (location of the 2008 US Open). The images of him in physical pain, struggling, and playing the entire 5 rounds on less than two knees, battling Rocco Mediate for the championship was the stuff of legends. Shortly after that mesmerizing performance, however, Tiger Woods announced his plans to undergo knee surgery, and the end to his 2008 season.

What (you may ask) does this have to do with digital security? Quite simply this, digital security is akin to reconstructive knee surgery. The importance and effects of knee surgery to Tiger's career is not dissimilar to the challenges faced by a frequently overstressed and overworked IT director who is expected to efficiently, effectively and economically deliver a secure system.

In golf, the front knee is the pivotal body part responsible for balance and weight-shift during the swing. The slightest glitch (consider a torn ACL) can upset the very delicate balance between rhythm, swing speed, swing path, club length, grip tightness, weight distribution and torso twist. Without a strong knee a golfer is hopeless; without a Blackberry-, Exchange- or web-server most organizations would be similarly "knee-less".

For a serious golfer, let alone Tiger Woods, the excruciating physical pain caused by playing on a torn ACL is surpassed only by the mental frustration experienced during an extended rehabilitation period. Not only does the golfer have to contemplate the potential unsuccessful results of the reconstructive knee surgery during the rehabilitation period, but they also have to fight the nagging doubts that attempt to erode their confidence on a daily basis.

Here is where the analogy to digital security takes hold. Many IT directors and C-level decision makers have had poor experiences with security products and services. Previous "quick-fixes" and reactive implementation of security protocols have left them disenchanted with the effectiveness of security solutions. There's a pervading sense that product-specific promises were woefully overstated and largely unfulfilled. Regardless, the ever-present and nagging pinch in their organization's proverbial front knee reminds them serious and damaging problems loom on the horizon. I have witnessed IT departments inhale a collective breath of anxiety and uncertainty as security remediation topics rear their head, acknowledging that a great deal of frustration exists in this area. This frustration, I believe, centers on the awareness that a divide exists between the effort and resources needed to properly implement a security program and the culture change required to sustain it.

Directors are beginning to understand that bridging this divide requires a change in the methodologies that address information handling and classification and their valuation of digital assets. They are also beginning to understand that the policies and procedures to secure these assets can quickly leap beyond the manageable. Where then does one draw the line? Where should a security program and policy start and end? How far should one go when considering legal, regulatory and contractual obligations? What about liability? What about confidence in one's information system's operational longevity? What about peace of mind? The answer is simple. Consider, again, Tiger Wood's reconstructive knee surgery.

To perform his surgery Tiger did NOT do several things. Firstly, he did not approach his general practitioner for advice on his knee surgery. Secondly, he did not provide his GP with a DIY book or medical journal articles on how to perform reconstructive ACL knee surgery and expect him to perform this surgery. Thirdly, he did not pay to educate a surgeon to become proficient in knee surgery and to then perform his knee surgery. Instead Tiger went to the best ACL reconstruction knee surgeon he could find. He went to a specialist to restore the functionality of the most important part of his operating machine. Further, he was willing to take the time to heal it properly, to go through the rehabilitation process in a disciplined and thorough manner thereby ensuring longevity and future success.

Security is no different! In essence, it is reconstructive knee surgery. Understanding vulnerabilities and implementing effective security measures requires skill and expert knowledge, not a review of off-the-shelf books with flow-by-flow diagrams. Digital security is knee surgery!!

The industry is riddled with products, including hardware and software and services, all claiming to make any trained (or "certified") user a security technician. However, these require time and money to implement correctly and to manage efficiently, and expert knowledge to use proactively. Some succumb to the temptation that purchasing gadgets and certifications will make them more secure, thus validating their assumption that money spent is a dependable metric of digital security. Frequently, these are later discarded for a loss of both money and time.

I have seen the temptation of a "security quick-fix" or the desire to "go it alone" commandeer the decision making process. Inevitably, these (like Tiger's arthroscopic surgeries) are incapable of quelling the pain. Instead, when organizations take an "ACL knee surgery" approach by relying on expert advice and services, and implement recommendations in a disciplined and thorough manner, they experience greater and longer lasting success.

Frequently additional benefits are also realized. The rehabilitation period is usually shorter than anticipated, leading to increased productivity and confidence in IT operations. Also, subsequent policy and procedure changes are less time consuming and resource dependent, adding value to the organization. Lastly, IT infrastructure changes are usually more efficiently planned and more securely executed as a result of this disciplined approach. If past is prologue, companies who are committed to digital security will be surprised by how quickly and successfully they find their swing, even in this rapidly changing digital world and regardless of the ever-present storms of risk that pour drenching rain all around.

Arthritis - Ways To Overcome It

There are so many factors involved in determining the health of an individual- genes, lifestyle, area where they live, diet etc. However a person can lead the healthiest life, with the least genetic disposition to contracting a disease, yet they can still end up with the disease. This often baffles modern day medicine, as there are simply not always clear indications of why a person has a condition such as arthritis. The number one factor in arthritis treatment is an early diagnosis- this in itself will provide the possibility to treat the condition with the most effective method from the onset of the condition.

In the case of arthritis there are many forms which can take hold of an individual at all stages of life- even children. Some types of arthritis may occur, but not show symptoms for some times- so again early diagnosis and examination by one's physician is crucial. Sometimes there is simply no explanation why an individual suffers from arthritis. Some forms of arthritis have no known causes, which makes it very difficult for a doctor to recommend preventative steps. However, no matter what form of arthritis a plan of dealing with the arthritis and treating it is needed.

As there are so many different types of arthritis, it is vital for the patient to understand which exact type of arthritis they are suffering from, and how it is effecting them. As in treating any medical condition, the doctor would normally start with ways to prevent the condition through to ways to treat and manage the condition. However, in the case of arthritis, there is not necessarily preventative measures which can be recommended - in some cases there certainly are- take the example of a body builder who develops arthritis in the joints This would be an example of an arthritis which has resulted from a distinct lifestyle issue- however this is not the norm. In the case that the cause of the arthritis is unknown, the first step is to understand the form of arthritis and its symptoms. Next it is crucial to narrow down the most effective treatments and physical therapy to help manage the arthritis pain effectively. Finally it is important to accept the condition, and re-design your lifestyle to benefit the condition.

Currently there is no distinct cure for arthritis- largely due to the fact it shows in so many different forms, however there are many different forms of treating arthritis --- there are pain killers, medicines, physical therapies and exercises, and even surgery. Overcoming arthritis is not necessarily simply applying the most effective treatment, rather it is adapting one's lifestyle and mentally accepting the condition as an inconvenience rather than a life changing event. There are certainly many ways to overcome arthritis- there is a wealth of information in the form of books and articles. The most important aspect is most certainly the way the patient mentally copes with the condition. A positive mental outlook will no doubt serve to help overcome the condition more effectively.

Currently there is no distinct cure for arthritis- largely due to the fact it shows in so many different forms, however there are many different forms of treating arthritis --- there are pain killers, medicines, physical therapies and exercises, and even surgery. Overcoming arthritis is not necessarily simply applying the most effective treatment, rather it is adapting one's lifestyle and mentally accepting the condition as an inconvenience rather than a life changing event. There are certainly many ways to overcome arthritis- there is a wealth of information in the form of books and articles. The most important aspect is most certainly the way the patient mentally copes with the condition. A positive mental outlook will no doubt serve to help overcome the condition more effectively.

Joint Knee Pain

Joints are places in the human body where two bones meet. When there is pain of the joints, causing inability to perform normal movements, which may lead to a lot of fear. Joint pain is a common complaint often associated with the aging process. Unusual exertion or overuse of joints can cause body joint pain. Pain in different joints of the knee joint is the most common.

This is mainly due to two reasons - the design of the knee and the fact that the load-bearing one. Knee is one of the three bones. This joint capsule surrounding the joint ligaments band. Meniscus is thickened cartilage pad that cushions the joint and work in the synovial fluid lubricates the joint. The complex structure of the knee joint is very unstable. Another factor that makes it very sensitive to knee injuries are the knee, which will bear the entire weight of the body, and every step we take. To treat the knee joint, depends on the cause pain.

Injuries cause knee pain. Cruciate ligament injury or trauma can damage the landing ligaments are inside and outside of the knee and inside the knee. It is immediate pain and swelling and should urgently doctor Meniscus tears - at a time, fast and precise movements of the knee or the reverse, torn meniscus. This is very common among athletes. Meniscus tears are often associated with the locking of the knee joint or an unstable feeling. Tendinitis - an overload of the knee, such as jumping can cause Tendonitis. Tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendons and can cause swelling and pain in the knee joint.

Fractions - a serious knee injury in traffic accidents and the effects may cause bone fracture of one of the three bones of the knee joint. Diseases and conditions cause knee pain Some common conditions that can lead to knee pain is arthritis, Chondromalacia or softening of cartilage, bursitis and tumors.

Arthritis and the Wear of Cartilage

There are two forms of cartilage in the knee, articular cartilage and the meniscus. Articular cartilage surrounds the surfaces of the bones that make up the knee. The articular cartilage prevents damage when the bones move and rub against one another. Resting on top of the articular cartilage are two wedges of cartilage that make up the meniscus. The meniscus distributes weight evenly throughout the leg. Without the meniscus, weight is applied unevenly to the bones, which results in arthritis of the knee.

Meniscus tears, which are also referred to as cartilage tears, involve pain and swelling in the knee. Sometimes meniscus tears also result in joint locking, which prevents the knee from fully straightening. The meniscus is basically really tough cartilage, which is made up of two menisci that conform to the surfaces of the bones. The menisci can be found on the surface between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone).

The two most common causes of meniscus tears are traumatic injury and degeneration. Athletes are prone to traumatic injuries that involve bending and twisting of the knee to result in meniscus tears. Older adults are more prone to degeneration because as people get older, age makes cartilage more susceptible to wear and tear.

Meniscus tears usually involve the following symptoms:

o Pain, swelling and tenderness
o Clicking and popping inside the knee
o Restricted motion

Meniscus Tear Treatment

Many meniscal tears, particularly chronic tears, can be treated non-operatively by physical therapy, strengthening exercises, medications and cortisone injections.

Surgery is not usually necessary to treat meniscus tears. Physical therapy is a more common treatment. Sometimes physical therapy is accompanied by medication and cortisone injections to alleviate pain.

Partial menisectomy surgery is the most common form of surgery for meniscus tears. It involves removal of the torn portion of the meniscus. Usually this is a good option if the tear is small. If the tear is large, surgeons have the option of repairing the meniscus with sutures or tacks instead of moving the torn section of the meniscus entirely.

Tips For a Jump Higher Workout

You should decrease your weight by proper diet routine. Remember that having a light weight is easy to perform exercises. You can hardly do it if you are big and perform slowly. Nevertheless, you will surpass this if you really work hard. Another workout to lessen your weight is power pushup. It is simple and portable alternative to expensive weight drill. You should also build some base strength. Jumping is challenging activity that you need to work out just to improve your muscles. In order to achieve this, you should try exercises that can definitely increase your jumping ability.

Try to do squat jumps. You need to squat as low as you can. Make sure that you maintain your balance and focus on your concentration. Next, jump as high as you can from that squatting position. Your arms should begin low and swing when you jump. Imagine also that you are trying to grab a basketball or catching a bird in the air. This is a good help to focus and may be a sort of inspiration. Another work out is running or "jogging" which is helpful for strengthening your legs as well as decreasing weight.

Improve your flexibility by jumping over a hurdle. It helps you in order to swing your first leg wherever you want it and you can maximize the height of your jump. If you are not flexible, you probably don't have balance. This may serve as your hindrance in improving your jumping skill. You should be in position. The right position before starting jumping can lead you to the highest jump. Be careful that your knees don't point inwards in knock knee position. It must be over the second toe. Always have your arms at your side.

Try also the dead lift. Dead lifts are good for strengthening exercise for the glutes and hamstring. It also develops body power by traps and upper back. The split squat is a kind of work out that is basically a single leg squat and the other is elevated behind you. Glute ham raise. Find a partner to hold your feet down while you place your knees on the floor. Then starting from the top, try to bend your back and keep your chest out and slowly exhale. This is a kind of direct hamstring exercises.

Three Reasons Why Spinal Arthritis Is More Difficult To Treat Than Hip or Knee Arthritis

The joints of the spine are called facet joints. They are located on both sides of the spine at every level up and down the spinal column all the way from the skull down to the sacrum.

Each of these joints combines to allow humans an incredible range of motion of the spines, permitting bending and twisting to an exceptional degree. Unfortunately though, each of these joints has cartilage and it has the potential for arthritis either due to age with loss of cartilage or trauma with damage to cartilage and subsequent arthritis pain.

Spinal arthritis is more difficult to treat than that of an extremity such as the hip or the knee. Here are the three main reasons why this is the case.

1. The number of joints in the spine is much higher. When you're dealing with hip or knee arthritis, there is one on each side. When you're dealing with spinal joints, there is one on each side at every level. Each of them is prone to developing arthritis and pain. even though the joints are considerably smaller, arthritis at any one facet joint can cause just as much pain as arthritis in a knee or a hip joint.

Typically when a person develops arthritis in a facet joint, he or she has arthritis in multiple facet joints which would need to be treated. Figuring out which is causing the pain and treating appropriately is much more difficult in a spinal arthritis situation than for the hip or knee.

2. Figuring out the source of the pain is more difficult. Even the best trained spine doctors who are board-certified can only tell people 50% of the time exactly why their back hurts. This is one of the shortcomings of back pain treatment, that the world of modern medicine is simply farther along when it comes to hip or knee arthritis than for that of the spine.

What this means is that if a pain management doctor does an injection into one of the facet joints of the lumbar spine, it may relieve part of a person's back pain, but a decent amount of the time they will still have significant residual pain. Pain management doctors have developed some more specific techniques to delineate the source of a person's pain, including facet joint injections and medial branch blocks as diagnostic tools. This will continue to improve, however, currently it makes spinal arthritis more difficult to deal with than that of the hip or knee.

3. Surgical outcomes for spinal arthritis treatments are not as good as that of total joint replacement for the hip or knee. Out of all the surgeries done for quality-of-life in the world, total hip and total knee replacement are in the top five overall. They are unbelievable game changers when it comes to decreasing pain and increasing function.

The same cannot be said for surgery for spinal arthritis. Although artificial disc replacement has been in existence since 2004, it has not been shown to be as good of a procedure as extremity joint replacement. In addition, there is no FDA approved procedure for replacing the facet joints in the back of the spine. What this means is that if a person undergoes surgery for facet arthritis, it will involve a spinal fusion. Satisfactory results after these treatments are in the 50 to 75% range, whereas knee replacement surgeries are typically over 90% satisfactory with outcomes.

The hope is that with modern medical techniques advancing, diagnosing the exact areas of spinal arthritis will become more exact and the results will be better with surgery. For now, nonsurgical pain management treatment is actually very good at reducing pain. it just takes more diagnostic tools and thought-provoking maneuvers to make sure the proper levels are being treated with the appropriate procedures.

Arthritis Cream - How to Choose Effective Ones

If you or one of your family members is suffering with arthritis then you may have tried various prescriptions and oral based treatments. It has been found that one of the best ways to relieve the pain and symptoms of arthritis is by applying arthritis cream to the affected joints. It is often believed that creams and ointments are preferential in some patients as they do not cause any damage to internal organs or produce ulcers of the stomach.

There are plenty of cream based products available in the market that can help to alleviate the pain. They range from pharmaceutical to homeopathic based solutions. It is important to choose the right arthritis cream for you. The success of such treatments can vary depending on the severity and the form of arthritis that is present.

One of the longest used and most recommended products is Arnica. This is a plant of the sunflower family that commonly occurs in temperate regions. It has been successfully used to treat arthritis and similar ailments since the sixteenth century. It is now possible to purchase arthritis creams that contain high dosages of Arnica.

Another proven treatment involves the application of castor oil based creams. These are suggested to be applied to the concerned area at regular intervals to help ease the pain. Some homeopaths will advise the use of Tiger balm and similar products. Many of these balms also contain camphor, clove, and menthol.

An ingredient contained in many prescribed arthritis creams is capsaicin. This is what is known as a "hot" treatment as it creates a burning sensation when applied. The active chemical is derived from the chilli plant. It works by activating nerve cells which then in turn send signals to the brain to release endorphins.

Pharmaceutical based ointments that have proved to be successful may contain glucosamine, chondroitins, and hyaluronic acid. These are especially effective when combined with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin.

Whichever cream is used it is always useful to fully research any possible side-effects. Certain preparations can cause reactions such as skin irritation, blistering, stinging, and in some cases inflammation. It is best to discuss any potential treatment with your GP so that you can be sure that the application is suitable for your body. It must be stated that any arthritis cream that is chosen should not be applied to areas of wounds, the eyes or the mouth.

Hip Surgery and Knee Surgery - Finding an Orthopedic Surgeon

Sometimes people assume that they should always go with what they are given. In some ways, this is good, but when it comes to getting an orthopedic surgeon for hip surgery and knee surgery, it might not be okay. You will want to have the best when you are dealing with two major parts of your body. Your doctor may get you a referral for a surgeon, but that does not mean he or she is the one you should choose.

After you get the initial referral, take the first appointment and speak with the surgeon. You might find him or her to be exactly what you want, but you might not. Do not be afraid to look elsewhere. If you have never had surgery before, you might not know what to look for. The thing about surgeons is that they are much different than doctors. Surgeons usually just do the initial consultation, surgery, and follow-up. Some can be very good at what they do, but they may be shy and difficult to talk to. Others may be arrogant but also excellent at what they do. It really will come down to what is most important to you.

Most people would probably prefer a surgeon that is excellent at what they do no matter what their personality is like, especially when it comes to something as important as hip surgery and knee surgery. There are drawbacks to the shy surgeon as well as the arrogant one. The shy type might not emphasize anything when he or she is talking about risks, so you could miss the importance of certain pieces of information. The more arrogant one may be so distracting in his or her arrogance that it is difficult to even listen to what he or she has to say. Both could be excellent surgeons, but they have totally different approaches.

If you are looking for someone with a compassionate personality who excels at hip surgery and knee surgery, the best choice for you is probably the more soft-spoken one who is not arrogant about his or her title but who cares more about you as the patient. He or she may be just as good a surgeon as the other, but he or she may be a nicer person.

Compassion and care are important traits of anyone in the medical profession. Sometimes surgeons may not think they need it since most of their patients are sleeping when they see them except for the initial and post surgical consultations. This way of thinking is not really a positive trait that you will want in a surgeon.

After meeting with a few different surgeons, hopefully you will get a feel for the type that you prefer. Make sure that you try to find one within your insurance coverage. Most likely, there is an excellent surgeon available that will take your insurance.

Find a surgeon who excels and who is the type of individual with whom you feel comfortable performing hip surgery and knee surgery. This is a good combination.