Relief From Arthritis: A Who’s Who in Arthritis Treatment for

Relief From Arthritis: A Who’s Who in Arthritis Treatment for Newly Diagnosed Patients
John Robben

Newly diagnosed arthritis patients can easily become overwhelmed
with the myriad of information, treatment options, help and
professionals available to them, while still trying to find
relief from their disease. In an effort to demystify who does
what, this article will point out each of the people you’ll most
likely be interacting with during your arthritis treatment and
explain their role in helping you find relief from arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Acupuncturist

Considered foreign to most Americans, acupuncture has become a
beacon in the arthritis treatment sphere. By placing small,
sterile needles into very specific points on the body,
acupuncture is said to relieve stress, increase endorphins and
remove blockages that are pain-causing, thus providing relief
from arthritis. For a list of fully trained osteopaths who are
also acupuncturists, visit the American Academy of Medical
Acupuncture for more information.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Chiropractor

Chiropractors are the hands-on, trained manipulators that
actually realign the joints, muscles and tendons that may be out
of whack. Although they are not medical doctors, chiropractors
may refer their findings to your family doctor or rheumatologist
for further investigation. The American Chiropractic Association
can give you a better idea as to what exact these professionals
can do to help you find relief from arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Massage Therapist (LMT,
CMT)

Relief from arthritis isn’t only found in the bottom of a
medicine bottle or at the hands of a surgeon; many arthritis
treatment plans strongly suggest a massage therapist as an aide
to reduce muscle tension or to increase one’s range of motion.
However, not all massage therapists are trained the same: check
with the American Massage Therapy Association for certified
arthritis treatment specialists in your area.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Orthopaedic Surgeon (MD)

Specializing in the evaluation and treatment of the bones,
joints and tissues, orthopedic surgeons usually work on a
referral-based system from your family doctor. These types of
doctors will determine whether or not your arthritis treatment
will focus on surgery, non-surgical options or a combination
thereof. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons can answer
most of your general questions about surgical arthritis
treatment options that can bring relief from arthritis symptoms.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Physical Therapist

Sometimes known as occupational therapists as well, physical
therapists help with the daily management of the disease by
showing patients practical, hands on tactics to find relief from
arthritis. This can include heat/cold therapy, assistive
techniques (different ways of doing the same thing so that there
is less pain but with no reduction of mobility), introducing
tools that can help with day-to-day living and exercises that
increase flexibility and mobility. Contact the American Physical
Therapy Association for more information.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Rheumatologist (MD)

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of
muscle and skeletal problems, such as lupus, osteoporosis and
gout. Rheumatologists work closely with your family doctor to
ensure your arthritis treatment is specific and specialized. The
American College of Rheumatology provides “professional
education” to its members and publishes several journals related
to arthritis treatment and the relief from arthritis symptoms.

About the author:
John Robben is the owner/operator of Ultimate Water Massage
(est. 2000), a Washington-based company that offers over 2000
products to ease your pain and your life. Visit for more
information, tools, supplies and tips for relief from arthritis
pain at http://www.ultimatewatermassage.com/.

Thoughts From an Experienced Lasik Patient

I have noticed that more people I work with are talking about, or undergoing, the Lasik vision correction procedure. I don’t know really know why Lasik has suddenly become more popular in my company, but I do know that there are a number of rumors about Lasik that I am not sure are true. Let me just talk about my long term experience with Lasik.

It has been more than eight years since I had the Lasik procedure, so I was one of the early and brave pioneers! Perhaps I wasn’t that brave when considering Lasik, for my vision in each eye was worse than -9. Even now, Lasik physicians consider that a very strong case and do caution prospective clients that the Lasik process will likely improve their vision, but may not eliminate the total need for glasses.

The Lasik operation itself had mild pressure and some unusual feelings, but no real discomfort or pain. This is still true in modern Lasik procedures, and hopefully they are even better at keeping the client comfortable. I do notice that now Lasik physicians also give a mild sedative mainly for psychological reasons, which I think I would have appreciated back then.

Two or three days after the Lasik operation I was astounded to find I had VERY clear vision in each eye, at least 20/20. Considering my previous prescription, you can imagine how fervently I thanked my Lasik physician. However, I did also have temporary symptoms of considerable dryness in each eye (which was helped by eye drops), and also halos around lights at night.

A few months after the Lasik procedure I noticed my vision changing a bit, though very slightly. The best way I can describe it is that the crisp edges no longer looked exceedingly crisp, but each object still seemed to be in focus. At my one year Lasik correction anniversary my physician said that one eye was still at 20/20, but the other had changed slightly to 20/40. However, I was still a great statistic for the Lasik correction procedure, and we were both still happy with the results.

In the years between the original Lasik procedure and now, my vision is still 20/20 in one eye and 20/40 in the other. I do have a pair of glasses and one contact lens for that eye, but rarely bother with them unless I am doing something like watching a movie. My long track record after the Lasik procedure has given hope to a number of other people in my office. I do want to say though that I was over 35 when I had the operation, and my Lasik physician said that the stability of my eyes and my age were good indicators that the Lasik results would be long term.

I hope this encourages people with bad vision to talk to a local Lasik physician about scheduling a Lasik procedure. Find a physician that has a good track record, and one that you trust, and I hope that your long term Lasik results will be as good as mine!

Knowing the Right Treatment for Male Menopause Will Save You

Knowing the Right Treatment for Male Menopause Will Save You From the Threat of Midlife Crisis

The so called Andropause, men hormonal change, is directly synonymous to male menopause, which leads to low testosterone level in aging men. It is said to cause depression according to Columbia University Psychiatrist, Stuart Seidman.

For several years, these changes in mens body and emotion lead them to experience a kind of midlife crisis, parallel to the experience of women in their midlife, males version of menopause.

Majority of these men find it hard to accept that the hormones that complete their manhood are decreasing. Truth is, around 25 million of the male American population whose ages ranges from 35 to 55 are experiencing this kind of dilemma.

Hence, the Andropause, a lowering in testosterone level, is already allied to the process of normal aging for men.

If you think your age falls in the age bracket that was mentioned above, then you should take note of the possible symptoms that might have already occurred to you. The following are some of the symptoms of Andropause:

Lowering of sex drive
Decreasing of energy
Lowering of strength and stamina
Decrease of lifes enjoyment
Frequent sadness and grouchiness
The strength of erections declined
The sports ability is slowly deteriorating
Falling fast asleep after taking the dinner
Lowering of performance at work
Repeated depression

For most medical specialists, the chief treatment for males lowering testosterone level is the testosterone replacement therapy. Though, this treatment is presently receiving some sort of controversies because of the risks associated to its form.

In fact, doctors and their patients weigh the risks first before they venture into this kind of treatment.

On the other hand, testosterone injections also lessen the symptoms of Andropause, however, it may increase the risk of a stroke, gynecomastia or the enlargement of breasts, temporary sterility, and liver toxicity.

But dont fret; there is still another option which will not be harmful to your body. There are numerous researchers who found satisfaction in using the formulation of potent herbs for Andropause medication.

These are supplements that can be bought over the counter and will naturally increase the level of your testosterone while reducing Andropause symptoms, eliminating a large number of side effects as compared to the hormone replacement therapy.

These natural supplements will help you generate more testosterone that are originally produced in the body, thus, you will no longer need to take testosterone from the other sources, considering the fact that this only results to the slowing down of your natural testosterone production, and so, putting you in a bad situation after you cease taking the injections.

Therefore, it is more preferable that you take this kind of treatment than having medications that could be harmful to your body.

If you are planning to purchase this herbal supplements, it is advisable that before buying try to analyze first the products. Make sure that includes the following: the potential to augment physical performance, endurance, and stamina, while maintaining the heightened intensity of testosterone as well as the energy.

Look for the list that represents the finest products that are offered for the consumer. Choose the products which will present the most efficient formulas with the supreme potential to bring utmost performance.

Family: The Importance of Regular Communication and How to Achieve

Family: The Importance of Regular Communication and How to Achieve It

Are you a woman who has a family that includes a romantic partner, spouse, or children? If you do, your life may be complicated at best. For many women, especially those who are trying to work and raise a family at the same time, a lot of issues arise. With relationships, one of those issues is often a lack of communication. If you and your partner are currently experiencing a lack of communication, this is a problem that you will want to try and fix as soon as possible.

One of the many reasons why it important for you to have an open line of communication with your partner is due to the elimination or reduction of misunderstandings. While it is common for many couples to fight and occasionally even on a regular basis, you may be surprised to learn just how many arguments are attributed to miscommunication. By having an open line of communication with your romantic partner, you are less likely to experience these types of arguments or disagreements. In terms of your relationship, an open line of communication may actually help to keep it alive.

As important as it is to understand the importance of having an open line of communication with your family, namely your spouse or your romantic partner, you may be looking for ideas on how to do so. What you may not realize is that there are actually an unlimited number of ways that you can go about regularly communicating with your partner, no matter what the issue. A few of those ways are outlined below for your convenience.

One of the best times to communicate with your partner is at the dinner table. If you arent currently eating dinner altogether, as a family, this is another issue that should be addressed. Due to hectic schedules, it is common for some families to eat apart at mealtime, but it shouldnt be happening each and every night. When sitting down to eat with your spouse or live-in partner, you can discuss important issues, like upcoming social events you would like to attend, money, or even just discuss how each others day went. This simple form of communication is one that can do wonders for your relationship.

Although it is important to communicate with your family, particularly your partner, on a daily basis in person, in person contact isnt always permitted. With busy schedules, different work hours, or overtime, it may seem as if you never get the opportunity to spend quality time with your spouse or your romantic partner. If that is the case, you may feel that regular communication is just hopeless. While it may seem that way, it doesnt have to be. If you are able to communicate with your partner through hand written notes, emails, or cell phone calls, it is advised that you do so, especially if you have an important message that needs to be passed on to them.

The above motioned tips are just a few of the many tips that you can use to help you and your partner, whether your partner be just a live-in romantic partner or your husband, keep an open line of communication. An open line of communication allows you to discuss any important issues that arise, as well as prevent other harmful issues from developing.

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