10 Creative Hobby Ideas for Seniors

When discussing the health of seniors, everyone is quick to encourage regular physical activity and a balanced diet. Of course, these are essential components to living a long and thriving life, but you must not forget about the importance of self-expression and passion too.

By pursuing a creative interest, you take hold of a powerful weapon against boredom, as you use your time constructively while keeping the brain stimulated. No matter your age, it’s always the right time to awaken that dormant artist within you. Check out these 10 fun (and healthy) hobby ideas for seniors:

1. Playing an Instrument
Everyone has dreamed of exploring the music world at some point in their life, so whether you’re blowing the dust off of your old guitar or touching the piano keys for the first time, here is an exciting avenue for creative expansion. No matter what your choice of instrument, your hand-eye coordination will be challenged as your fingertips get working with the brain, producing sounds which flow through you and soothe your very soul.

2. Painting
When one thinks of art therapy, painting is usually the first choice that comes to mind. The minute actions of the brush require an intense focus which will help tackle your anxiety and hone your fine motor skills. Painting does require a host of different utensils and tools so practice care and utilize ease-of-use tools like a reacher with a good grip to aid in reaching, grabbing, and picking up objects like paint jars and canvases.

3. Pottery
There is a certain healing power of squeezing soft clay through your fingers while exploring the limitations that this medium presents. For starters, the challenging actions required by the hands are good for strengthening your fingers and wrists. Furthermore, the patience and thought each piece demands can teach you to relax. And finally, once you’re finished, you’ll have a useable or aesthetically pleasing object to treasure.

4. Photography and Scrapbooking
Once you get the hang of modern-day digital cameras and their seemingly endless features, then you can join the millions of people around the world who have become obsessed with capturing visually-striking imagery. No matter what your interest (be it nature, people, landscapes, or architecture), you can preserve these moments by collecting them in a scrapbook (physically or online), allowing you to flip through these memories whenever you desire a glimpse into your past.

5. Sewing or Knitting
If nimble fingers and finely tuned motor skills are your objectives, then this could be the hobby for you! Needle work is a relaxing activity which is easily pursued without even turning off the TV. And once you’ve sharpened your skills, the inexpensive gift ideas are only limited by your imagination!

6. Gardening
Gardening is a senior favorite when it comes to creative hobbies because you can design and maintain your garden while enjoying health-boosting sunlight and fresh air. There is an undeniable therapeutic value to nurturing nature and the results are so tangible that you may want to admire them for hours. Not to mention that you can even grow your own food if you want!

7. Dancing
Very few pastimes will benefit all areas of your life quite the same as dancing does. Your muscles will strengthen due to the cardio workout, your balance will improve which will minimize the chances of future tumbles, and your memory will be challenged to recall your steps, exercising your body and mind at the same time. And, of course, it’s a lot of fun!

8. Cooking
People tend to overlook cooking as a creative outlet, but make no mistake that the experimentation and knowledge required to successfully execute the plan is as artistic as any other. What’s more, the end result can be appreciated by everybody, because who doesn’t love a good healthy meal?

9. Coloring
If you disregard coloring as some children’s play game, then you are doing yourself a great disservice. This process requires no thought, only a meditative concentration to stay within the lines as you gradually tap into that childlike appreciation for color. This is also the ideal starting point for those who don’t believe that they are naturally creative.

10. Writing
Do you have a knack for telling elaborate stories? Have you lived an exceptional life which deserves to be recognized? Do you have any past traumas that you’d like to work through? The art of writing can be the greatest way to advance all of these thoughts, not by using some bright colors or fancy abstract imagery, but rather, your naked language alone. And best of all, it costs next to nothing to pursue!

This is a guest blog entry.

3 of the most important hormones which play a vital part in functioning of human body

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Usually the most common evil which keep you from achieving your health and physical goals is that extra slice of cake and those chocolate chip cookies. Do you think this is enough to spot the culprit that’s not letting you lose weight or is there something that is lying deep down inside? Is it something which is even smaller which is microscopic? Are your hormones functioning properly? Hormones are the chemical messengers which travel through the blood and reach every tissue and organ of the human body.

Are you eager to get that perfect body before summer hits in? Regardless of whether you’re a male or a female who’s reading this post, here we will give you the names of the most vital organs which influence your health.

#1: GROWTH HORMONE

In case you’ve ever considered gaining strength and muscles, there are high chances that you’ve heard about growth hormone which is produced by the pituitary gland. When this hormone is produced in the right amount, it boosts muscle mass and decreases the accumulation of body fat. Older men suffer from such an opposite impact and growth hormone is considered as an anti-aging hormone. You can opt for HGH injections to stave off the most common signs of aging as this is the quickest way. Visit www.hgh.biz to consult with the best doctors on this. HIIT or High Intensity Interval Training is the best form of exercise to boost levels of HGH.

#2: TESTOSTERONE

If you thought that testosterone is just vital for males, you’re wrong as they also play a vital role in females as well. Though the levels in female are much lower but still they have a function. In the males, this hormone is secreted by their testes and in the females, the ovaries produce the in very small amount. When testosterone is produced in the right level, this can boost muscle mass and also improve the functioning of the brain. A sudden fall in the level can be dangerous and this is when you might require consulting the doctor.

#3: ESTROGEN
 
This is usually considered as a hormone only for females, but it is also found among the males. When this hormone is produced at the best level, it regulates the cycles of female reproduction. Estrogen also plays a vital role in boosting the sex drive. There are some studies that estrogen can impact the recovery of muscles and the health of human brain. While the benefits of estrogen are confirmed, the levels of estrogen can have a bad impact on the fat stored in the body. In case there are excess fat tissues in the body, there are harmful impacts in both females and males.

Though small, hormones usually have a rather powerful impact on the human body. You have to realize and understand how hormones have an impact on your life and how they play a role in maintaining the kind of physique you want. Good habits like proper nutrition, regular exercise and enough sleep can also help in the functioning of your body.

This is a guest blog entry.

8 Things to Consider Before LASIK Eye Surgery

You have probably heard wonderful things about the amazing outcome you can expect with LASIK eye surgery and much of what you have heard and read is probably true. However, the one thing you should always understand before any medical or surgical procedure is that results will vary from patient to patient and your doctor will be in the best position to give you what they consider to be a realistic prognosis. Having said that, some people do achieve 20/20 vision and that is something you can hope for. However, do discuss what your surgeon hopes to accomplish before getting any false expectations.

1. Your Choice of Surgeon

When it comes to surgery of any kind, it pays to know your surgeon. Not only should you have one or more consultations prior to surgery, but you should also take the time to read their website and any literature you may be given at your initial appointment. For example, when considering Visionary Eye Centre in Sherwood Park, AB, you can read their website, browse through the services they offer and even request appointments online. It’s good to know you can reach your doctor without being on hold for lengthy periods of time.

2. Make Sure to Follow All Instructions

Your doctor will give you any instructions you need before arriving for surgery. Be sure to read them and read them again so that you follow them to the letter. You are given those instructions for a reason and the success of surgery may very well depend on what you do in the time leading up to the big day.

3. You Will Not Be Under General Anesthesia

Some people don’t like the idea of being awake for surgery of any kind, even LASIK which is a type of non-invasive surgery. If you are uncomfortable with this, make sure to discuss this with your doctor prior to setting a date for surgery.

4. You May Have What Is Called a “Refractive Error”

Some patients may require a second procedure based on their eyesight. The worse a patient’s eyes are going in, the likelier it will be that they may need to go back for refinements. Again, this is something you will want to discuss with your doctor in advance. Does your doctor think you will need more than one procedure?

5. Learn About Any Possible Risks

Most patients are concerned when going into any kind of surgery, even non-invasive procedures like LASIK surgery. If you are worried about any risks, this is something you can discuss with your doctor or research online. Although complications are quite rare, every patient is different, and this is something to understand right up front. Major ‘risks’ include infection, inflammation and correction that is over or under the expected outcome.

6. Never Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Some patients are actually afraid to insult their doctors by asking too many questions. Remember, this is your body, and these are your eyes, so you are entitled to ask any questions you feel would make you more comfortable with the procedure and with the doctor and team you are trusting. It is your right to ask about any concerns you may have.

7. Understand Post-Op Care

As with any kind of surgery or procedure, your doctor will give you post-op instructions to follow. Make sure you understand them completely and follow them precisely as given. If you feel something isn’t right or experience any undue swelling, inflammation or pain, call your doctor immediately. As mentioned, some amount of swelling and inflammation is normal, but extremes should be seen to immediately.

8. Is LASIK Right for You?

Taking all of the above into consideration, you may be questioning whether or not LASIK surgery is right for you. From a medical perspective, if your optometrist has recommended you for this procedure, the chances are very good that you can expect a good outcome. However, just because your doctor recommended LASIK surgery, doesn’t always mean it is right for you. Don’t be afraid to ask whether there are other treatments which can yield comparable results and always ask your doctor if this is the best treatment for you. Even then, understand that the decision is in your hands and your hands alone.

A Quick Summary of What You Should Know

When all is said and done, LASIK surgery is heralded as the best thing to hit eyecare since the invention of ‘spectacles’ way back, once upon a time. It is a non-invasive procedure where once patients had to undergo the knife, and the healing rate is much faster than any other type of surgery simply because it is just that, non-invasive. If you are concerned about whether or not your healthcare covers LASIK and if not, what the cost would be, this is also something you should know in advance.

Just remember, never be afraid to ask your doctor anything that concerns you, including cost. Your rights as a patient dictate that you are entitled to any information regarding your care and this includes LASIK procedures. You’ll know it’s right for you when all your questions have been satisfied.

This is a guest blog entry.

What Causes Cavities And How To Prevent Them

Cavities can be a real pain in the teeth. They’re a common health problem worldwide, people of any age can get them, they’re difficult to completely avoid, and some people have teeth that are just prone to getting them, now matter how much sugar they avoid. But what exactly causes cavities, and can anything be done to prevent them?

 
Cavities are small holes in the teeth that form where there are weakened areas in the hard surfaces of the teeth. This tooth decay and damage can happen for several reasons.These include improper or insufficient cleaning routines, sugary drinks and snacks, bacteria in the mouth, and poor-quality tooth enamel. Cavities that are left alone continue to enlarge and deepen and the decay will reach into the deeper layers of the gumline and nerves. Infection and tooth loss are entirely possible.

Avoid sugar and starches

Sugar and starches cause plaque to form, and plaque that sticks around can harden into tartar, which creates a protective shield for bacteria. Acids in plaque dissolve minerals in the hard enamel layer and holes form. The bacteria and acid continuethrough and eat into the layer of dentin, which connects to the nerves of the teeth. Tooth pain could be an indicator that a cavity is present. Further damage occurs when the bacteria moves through to the pulp, where nerves and blood vessels reside. This is when more serious pain and toothaches start.

Your local professionals like Hawthorne Village Dental Care should be visited regularly to find and care for cavities. Affected teeth can be cleaned and fillings put in to stop the growth of the cavity and prevent a new one from forming at that site. Your dentist and dental hygienist can help with tips for preventing cavities. This includes proper brushing and flossing, plus professional cleaning and rinses, regularly.

Increased risk factors for cavities include eating food that sticks to the teeth like

• candy
• desserts
• ice cream
• honey
• soda
• chips
• and crackers

Plus sipping on sugary drinks sees a constant stream of sugar washing over your pearly whites. It’s important to brush and floss regularly to remove the starch, sugar, and debris that form plaque, and to get rid of the plaque already there. Teeth that are hard to reach at the back get cavities most often. If you’re not getting enough fluoride from your toothpaste, from your city’s drinking water, or through treatments at the dentist, this can also lead to decay.

Heartburn, Heartbreak

Acid from heartburn can affect tooth enamel. Having a dry mouth can lead to more damage because saliva, and components within it, can’t clear debris and plaque away. Old fillings and damage caused by teeth grinding can also create spaces for bacteria to grow.

Other ways besides brushing and flossing that can help with prevention is visiting the dentist regularly; rinsing your mouth with mouthwash that contains fluoride; dental sealants that can be professionally applied to the chewing surface of teeth; drinking from the public water supply and not bottled water; avoiding snacking on sugars and starches and to brush teeth after consuming these foods; antibacterial treatments; and chewing on prescription gum.

Ask your dentist about these options and which they recommend for your personal situation.  

This is a guest blog entry.

Everything You Need to Know About Integrative Medicine

Integrative medicine combines modern Western medical practices and understandings and combines it with alternative therapies such a stress-reduction techniques, supplements, herbal medicine and acupuncture. Integrative medicine encourages people to question their health and the clinical nature of therapies in the context of wellness (not sickness) which empowers people to be active participants in their own health. As a wellness-driven medicine, integrative medicine does not look at issues in the context of treating patients, but in the context of treating issues.

All throughout recent history, medicine has focused on treating the symptoms rather than treating the patient who is being affected by an illness or ailment. Whilst this form of medicine is sometimes successful, it isn’t always so. For example, in emergencies, western medicine is more of a quick fix that doesn’t always get to the root of the actual problem being complained of. Because the individual is ignored, and it is the symptoms which are given all the attention and treatment, the patient does not get 100% better and will likely find themselves back in hospital.

How Does Integrative Medicine Work?

Our human bodies are complex machines which intertwine different systems so that we can function. Integrative medicine looks at the various factors which impact how these systems work, or don’t work, in each person and takes an individualized approach to providing treatment. Integrative medicine recognizes that what is right for one patient is not necessarily right for another. There are several factors which need to be considered such as lifestyle factors and health history, for example, and providing a blanket approach to treatment like western medicine tends to do is not always going to provide the most optimum results.

The overall success of integrative medicine is very dependent on there being an open relationship between healthcare practitioners and patients. And, in-order to treat a patient properly, healthcare practitioners must know everything there is to know about a patient such as health history, diet and lifestyle. This is known as patient-centered care.

What is Patient-Centered Care?

In short, patient-centered care is an idea practiced by most healthcare practitioners who subscribe to integrative medicine. Patient-centered care is the very core of integrative medicine and it is all about making sure that the patient is put first, beyond anything else. The practitioner makes sure that the patient is provided with everything they need in addition to traditional western medical practices in-order to make a quick and full recovery where there won’t be a high chance of recourse. By putting the patient first, it is not just the illness which is treated but the entire mind, body and spirit all at the same time.

In the U.S., recent legislative changes in the arena of healthcare have elevated integrative medicine by openly stating how important it is for healthcare practitioners to focus on all healthcare options available, not just clinical medicine. To this effect, many healthcare practitioners now take a more holistic and integrative medical approach to their treatments.

In addition to the above, employers have begun to align their healthcare premiums with the relative health and wellness of their employees. This creates accountability for health - if you aren’t healthy, you will pay more - and helps to complement patient-centered care. Integrative medicine can be supplemented with Integrative Therapeutics products which are created with integrative medicine practices in mind. Integrative Therapeutics are widely recognized as the leading provider of integrative medicine and their range of supplemental products are often provided during their treatment programs. They are conveniently available to buy through Blue Sky Vitamin.

3 Ways Integrative Medicine Benefits Patients

1. It Targets the Root of an Illness

The medical community widely understands integrative medicine to get to the root of problems rather than just slap on a quick fix, and the current trend within medicine is to “treat the person” rather than “treat the symptoms.” Rather than simply addressing a current problem, integrative medicine looks towards the root of the problem and doesn’t just treat symptoms, but teaches the patient how to change their habits or practices which caused the problem in the first place. In the long-term, this is very effective and keeps people out of hospitals.

2. It Addresses Chronic Problems

Integrative medicine is fantastic for people who suffer from long-term chronic problems which are difficult to treat. Because doctors need to spend a longer amount of time with patients suffering from chronic issues so that they are able to fully understand what is going on, integrative medicine naturally fits in with its “treat the individual” approach. In an age where many medical appointments last no longer than 15 minutes or so, personalized approaches and attention to patients is an infinitely effective approach. Patients who have chronic issues suffer for longer because traditional medicine has not figured out how to address the underlying problem. Because integrative medicine works to bring the whole body into better balance, it results in the clearing up of symptoms much quicker.

3. It Ensures Patients Are Personally Cared For

Integrated medicine looks at the entire picture rather than symptoms alone, so doctors need to spend a lot more time with patients in-order to get to the root of a problem. Also, patients who get to spend more time with their medical practitioners naturally feel better about the treatment they are receiving, and this can, in some cases, speed up the healing process which can easily be slowed down by stress, anxiety and an unwillingness to undergo certain treatments. Remember, integrative medicine is not concerned with getting rid of symptoms, it is concerned with addressing the causes of your symptoms so that they go away and don’t return.

Should I Consider Integrative Medicine?

It’s all down to you and what your own medical practitioner thinks - after all, we are not all health experts. That being said, if you are suffering from a problem and want to get to the root of it, especially if it is a chronic problem which is persistent and is not going away despite your doctors’ best efforts, then it could be the right thing for you.

Although Western medicine in many cases does work with its approach of delivering drugs and treatment regimens which treat the symptoms, this isn’t always the case. With integrative medicine and supplements, you are getting treatments and products that work by fighting the root cause of an ailment, illness or chronic condition. By fighting the root cause, you are able to banish the symptoms and stop them from returning.

Think of it like pulling weeds out from your garden. If you completely remove the entire weed from the ground by uprooting it, it won’t come back. However, if you merely pull the leaves but leave the roots there, it will rear its ugly head again. Medicine works in the same way.

Whilst integrative medicine is a relatively new idea, there has been a lot of research which has demonstrated it to be a serious modern medical practice and it has even found its way into law. Medical professionals are beginning to appreciate the importance of not only treating the symptoms, but treating the patient, too.

This is a guest blog entry.

The Hidden Question of Help and Harm With Daily Use of Antiperspirants

It's important to stay up to date on news reports regarding potential health risks. But the modern news cycle often moves a little too fast for the public good. Today the major news outlets are constantly in search of sensationalistic stories. This is in large part why it often seems like foods that are reported as healthy one day are called unhealthy the next.

Many science and medical reporters are quick to extrapolate from a single suggestive study. That kind of quick reporting simply doesn’t work well with medicine. Instead, one needs to carefully consider long-term studies and real-world use.

This cycle of concern tends to repeat itself over and over again. The best way to escape it is by taking control and carefully examining the claims. This is also why it’s time to examine our culture’s use of antiperspirants. It's one of the most recent examples of public health concerns. But the only way to know if antiperspirants are harmful or harmless is to take a more careful look at the evidence.

It's actually fairly straightforward to give an answer to someone asking the question is antiperspirant bad? But people should understand why that’s the case. Otherwise, it’s easy for that cycle of misinformation to continue. Antiperspirant is totally harmless and poses no significant risks to one's health. But understanding why people think it’s bad, and why that’s not the case, can help inform future decisions.

As a recent story showed, most people will readily adopt sound methods to improve their health. But to do so they need to see how medical information is spread.

How misconceptions arise

The bulk of people’s concerns over antiperspirants stem from scientific sources. But the larger issue is that people seldom come at them from the actual source of that information. In theory, the proper method of reporting involves medical or scientific journals.

A reporter discovers some interesting work within his or her field of interest. The next step is to wait for that study to undergo a process called peer review. A researcher submits the study to relevant scholarly journals. At that point, experts go over the study to look for problems. The most common reasons for rejection involve experimental design.

A study has to be carefully designed to prove one specific point. This process involves reduction of any complicating variables. Along with this a study usually concludes with a general analysis of the data in order to provide a conclusion. This is the other main point of contention during the submission and peer review process. It’s quite common for the journal’s staff of experts to disagree with the conclusion stated in the article. Researchers are like anyone else. They tend to hope for big results from their work. This unconscious bias can make even the best-intentioned people reach the wrong conclusions.

The big problem stems from the fact that reporters often sidestep this process. They talk to researchers before the peer review phase. As such, they’re often extrapolating from flawed data. The researchers and reporters mean well. But the result is confusion amid the public.

Other possible causes

Another issue comes from factual information which is incorrectly extrapolated by the public. With antiperspirant, this took form with fears regarding aluminum chloride. People assume that unwanted or toxic substances are purged from the body via sweat. And reasoning from that foundation, they feared anything which inhibited sweating could cause absorbed material to stay in one’s system instead of coming out through sweat.

In the case of antiperspirants, they feared aluminum chloride would enter from the application and then stay trapped in the body. In reality though, this simply shows people’s incorrect assumptions about biology. Humans only excrete water and electrolytes when they sweat. The liver serves a dedicated function of processing potentially toxic substances and then excreting it within urine.

That said, the idea that antiperspirant would even enter into the circulatory system and leapfrog to the nearest large mass of tissue is improbable at best. The world is full of dust, dirt, and debris. And the human body is quite good at keeping foreign substances from absorption. Otherwise, every pet owner would have their dog or cat’s hair swimming around in their veins.

A proper focus on health and antiperspirants

As the New York Times recently pointed out, exercise is the closest thing we have to a wonder drug. People tend to focus so much on unfounded rumors about negative health effects that they neglect positive proven research.

An antiperspirant isn't unhealthy. By itself, it's totally neutral. It's neither healthy or unhealthy. But it can serve as a tool to make workouts more fun and social. Which makes antiperspirants a fantastic tool for overall positive health.

This is a blog post by Nancy Evans.

10 Common Mistakes That Damage the Knees

Life moves fast and doesn’t always give you much time to pause and think about the treatment of your knees. Unfortunately, if your knees do decide that they’ve had enough, then ultimately, life will be paused and the injury will be the only thing you can think about.

The best way to prevent this knee trauma is to regularly evaluate your daily choices and then rectify any errors accordingly. Learn about 10 common mistakes people make with their knees and what you can do to avoid them.

1. Not Exercising Enough
One of the most common causes of any physical injury is a lack of activity. If you’re spending all day sitting down at your desk or lying on your couch, then your knees will get used to this lazy lifestyle and they will slowly weaken as a result. Avoid this at all costs, even if you only go for a short walk every day.

2. Exercising Too Much
On the other side of the exercise argument is when you push your knees too hard. If you’re increasing your workout load, do so gradually, being very cautious of any unfamiliar movements and then taking the necessary time to rest afterward. Life is all about moderation and this includes exercise too.

3. Smoking
Which parts of your body are not being damaged by smoking? Can you think of any? Cigarettes increase your carbon monoxide levels while depriving your entire being of its required oxygen intake, and this includes your knees. In fact, tests show that smokers with arthritis lose substantially more cartilage than those who don’t.

4. Ignoring Pains
There is no value in panicking about every creak from your knees, but do take note of these sensations. If a pain persists or escalates, then get some rest and speak to a medical professional immediately. Remember, the sooner you repair any damage, the better your chance of full recovery is. Following your doctor's orders, some compression for the knee area may also be a good idea while you carefully approach low impact exercises to maintain your joint mobility.

5. Not Stretching
As any athlete will tell you, stretching the body is an imperative part of the process to step out of harm’s way. Without these motions, the muscles may be stiff and this makes them very vulnerable to potential injury. However, stretching is not only limited to intense exercises, and should also be performed whenever you’re about to play some sport, go on a hike, or have simply been sitting at your desk for too long.

6. Wearing the Wrong Shoes
Feet are all different, hence why it doesn’t make sense to nonchalantly pick up a shoe based on its appearance. Always get your footwear fitted properly by a professional, paying close attention to comfort and the arch support. It’s also worth mentioning that you should always wear the correct shoe for your intended action. If you’re running, then wear running shoes. If you’re hiking, then wear hiking shoes. If you’re not, then don’t.

7. Lifting Heavy Objects
When lifting heavy objects, it is important to leave your spine out of the equation and rather bend your knees, meeting the item on the floor then raising it from that position. However, this is not some miracle foolproof solution, and if you lift beyond your capability or repetitively perform these movements, your knees could develop some serious troubles. Know your limits and don’t be too proud to ask for help.

8. Being Overweight
Unfortunately, any excess of weight will force unnecessary pressure on your frame, and your knee joints are going to take the brunt of this stress. But when your knees are already under threat, how are you expected to lose those pounds? A good start would be to participate in low impact activities (such as swimming or cycling) while keeping a strict eye on your diet.

9. Eating Incorrectly
Weight issues aside, there are also certain foods (such as refined carbs or those sugary temptations) which are inflammatory, meaning that they may cause your knee joints to swell up. For this reason (and many other reasons) cut back on the junk food and dairy while stocking up on more vegetables, fruits, and omega-3s

10. Tripping and Falling
It goes without saying that most people would never trip and fall on purpose. However, it’s the sequence of events leading up to these incidents which are often the individual’s fault. Make it your mission to always maintain a clear path from any side of your house to the other by removing loose rugs, electrical wires, and clutter while also mopping up any spills as soon as they happen.

This is a guest blog entry.

Six Tips for Choosing A Personal Injury Lawyer

Whether you are driving to Chicago for your work, checking out a mall to shop, or even just consuming a commercial product, you can become injured because of the actions of other parties.

This is why, without the ideal attorney, injured victims can have a difficult time getting the compensation they should get to. Getting a good lawyer therefore may be easier said than done, since a lot of lawyers are out there.

In case you want to get in touch with personal injury law firms, feel free as they can help you complete such cases.

Here are some tips before you get a personal injury lawyer.

Check Out the Lawyer’s Past Experience

You should look for an attorney who has experience in similar case before. You can also check out state and county bar associations that can provide you with leads when it comes to local lawyers who may have experience or knowledge in various cases of personal injury, including negligence, wrongful death, malpractice, and libel, among other cases.

Seek a Meeting with the Lawyer

It is crucial that you meet the lawyer before you begin your personal injury case. If you decide to skip the initial meeting, there may be problems with the case you are pursuing, as well as the settlement you want to pursue.

Right Questions Should Be Asked

In your initial meeting with the lawyer, it is better to ask various questions to make sure both parties are clear with the goals and end-results of the case.

For instance, how much will the lawyer receive for the lawsuit? Are there other payment plans? Can he or she handle such a case, and when will the case most likely end?

You might want to also check out the record of the lawyer or law firm he or she represents in such cases.

Do Not Forget to Research

Even after you have finished your initial meeting with the lawyer, it is crucial that you should continue your research of all lawyers before the court makes any final decision.

Be wary of lawyers who merely want to go after police accident reports, file court filings, or media attention.

Guarding Your Lawsuit

In most cases, personal injury cases can be settled out of court. Therefore, it is possible you can get a settlement without the need for you to file a lawsuit.

A legitimate personal injury complaint can help you respond to information from the medical facility or hospital and avoid the need to file a lawsuit.

Given the importance of this decision, it makes sense to talk to several firms or individuals before making a decision.

Be sure to ask about the attorney's experience with your specific type of claim, and whether he or she will be personally handling your case.

Personal Injury Cases May Take Time

An injury victim of course would want to check on the cost of the case. This is where a good and idealistic lawyer comes in.

People are going to chose a law firm if it has what it takes to pursue a personal injury case. In that case, it is always better to chose an experienced legal expert who is knowledgeable about the issue at hand, helping you with the issue as you go along.

Filing a medical malpractice case does not have be difficult, since there are so many guidelines to help you.

This is a guest blog entry.

How to Pursue a Medical Malpractice Case in Indiana: The Basics

You live in Indiana and your son needs an emergency appendectomy. The doctor from the nearby hospital tells you the procedure is going to be smooth and quick. A week later, the doctor looks at the x-rays; it turns out the surgeon that conducted the appendectomy left a small razor inside the abdomen of your son. Now it is causing some infection.

Now the surgeon wants to take out the infected parts of your son’s body and which means he has to stay at home for a month for his body to recover. For this extra surgery, who will pay for it? What about your son missing school or even you from work since you have to attend to his needs? Can your son recover from the pain he has been forced to go through because of the incompetence of the surgeon? Here are some tips to help you. You may also want to seek an Indianapolis medical malpractice law firm to fully help you.

Check the time limits

First, when did your son have the operation? The personal injury lawsuit should be filed within two years during the incident.  Statute of limitations eliminates a plaintiff’s ability to recover compensation if too much time has already passed since the incident. This is to prevent patients with old injuries from suing hospitals or medical facilities long after a treatment or operation happened, when witnesses and even medical records may have already disappeared.

Who Are You Going to Sue?

You can start begin by suing the health care professional who caused the injury. But sometimes, lawyers will include many defendants from the hospital, or even the hospital itself, to possibly maximize the settlement you would get.

The medical facility can be liable under a doctrine called “respondeat superior”.  This means that an employer, in this case a hospital, should be held responsible for any action of its personnel or staff who is performing his or her duties being an employee. The hospital can also be sued using the doctrine of “corporate negligence”. For instance, if the facility fails to review employees for their proper credentials, or keep sanitary conditions, or if a patient gets discharged improperly.

You can also sue a pharmaceutical firm for a product liability lawsuit if it manufactured a medicine that has unreasonably adverse side effects of which you are not notified. This also applies to a firm that manufactured or designed a defective or poor medical device.
 
Preparing a Lawsuit

The personal injury lawsuit starts when you lodge a complaint before the local courthouse.
Your complaint should contain details about the incident that caused the injury, identities of the parties that are involved in the incident, and why compensation is needed.

It may also be a good idea to get an experienced lawyer who is an expert when it comes to personal injury cases.

Many medical malpractice lawyers can work with you on a contingency fee basis. This means the lawyer is only going to be paid a portion of the settlement that you receive. In short, the lawyer does not have to be paid until your case wins.

Medical Negligence Suit

In order for you to win in your lawsuit, you must be able to effectively show that the conduct of the health care professional did not meet the standards of medical care, and that this problem led to your injuries.

This means you should get an expert witness who can better articulate the standards when it comes to medical care and explain the shortcomings of the doctor or health care professional.

Estimating Your Damages

The crux of your lawsuit should focus on the financial losses or economic damages as a result of the injury. These include the costs as a result of what happened, medical bills, as well as the loss potential income because you are unable to go to work.

This is a guest blog entry.

4 Natural Ways to Significantly Improve Health

You have probably heard about the phrase, “the best things in life are free.” Well, this is actually true when it comes to quality time with family and friends. What is more, there is a bunch of ways to save money even if you are trying to live a healthy lifestyle.  It may not be easy at first, but the benefits it will provide later are unmatched.

Be More Active and Try Exercise

Exercise is one of the best ways to achieve a healthier lifestyle, especially since it offers dozens of health benefits. Still, do not see it as a magic bullet whatsoever. You can go for a brisk walk for half an hour a day, which should be enough to dramatically reduce the risk of diabetes, cancer, heart, and other leading killers.

Keep in mind, too, that a lifetime of regular exercise can improve your brain function, meaning that you will become more active and independent. This allows you to be mindful at all times in any given spaces/areas.  If your cognitive functioning works well, you are aware of your surroundings and this prevents the possibility of hurting someone. Besides, compensation for the victim’s estate can be financially challenging.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

This one is definitely easier said than done. Believe it or not, obesity rates significantly climbed over the past five years. In fact, not a single state in the country saw a decline.

Sure, it is difficult to either lose weight or keep it off. Still, studies show that when you start to lose weight, your health improves dramatically. If you have a normal weight, make sure to maintain it. You can do so by consuming calories and exercising as often as you can. A healthy diet also comes with the abundance of fruits and vegetables, among many others. A perfect way for you to shed some calories from your diet is through drinking water instead of sugary beverages. The latter accounts for more and more calories in the American diet.

Quit Smoking

This is a no-brainer but many people do not follow it. In case you didn’t know, lung cancer is still the number one leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Add to this the fact that in between 80% and 90% of cases of lung cancer, smoking is reportedly the leading cause.

There is good news, though. That is, smoking rates are starting to fall in the U.S. Well, this is thanks to a good number of new nicotine replacement therapies. This could be anything from patches to nasal sprays. It only means that quitting has become a lot easier than before.

According to a recent analysis, nicotine replacements have the potential to double the odds that smokers will eventually quit. New medications are all about helping smokers kick the habit for good.

Find Joy From Friends or Families

Enjoying life and maintaining a circle of supportive friends can make a huge impact to your overall health. It is really is true that friendships may be second only to quit smoking, so you can prevent the possibility of heart attack. But as far as people with extensive social networks are concerned, they are very likely to have calcification in the arteries. The latter is pretty much a sign of heart disease risk.

Another effective way to increase your happiness is to surround yourselves with cheerful friends. Believe it or not, a person like you is likely to be happy if a close contact is happy.

Now is the perfect time to start living a healthy lifestyle. Not tomorrow but today.

This is a guest blog entry.

Cannabidiol Oil – What Is It and How Can It Help Us?

 CBD oil has been gaining some popularity lately, but many people are not properly informed when it comes to it. If CBD remains a mystery for you, this  article should provide all the information that you need. If you want to learn what CBD is and how it can be used, take a look below.

What is CBD

CBD is also known as cannabidiol, is a chemical that comes from cannabis. Many people believe that this always makes CBD a drug, but that is simply not true. The cannabis chemical that gets you high is THC, and CBD has no such effects on its own.

Since CBD does not come with negative side effects, this makes it legal so it is more accessible. Nonetheless, it becomes a bit tricky to understand the legal status of CBD. According to the Controlled Substances Act, CBD extracted from the stalk is legal. However, according to DEA, CBD oil is considered a schedule 1 drug. If you are looking for more information about CBD and the state you live in you should take a look at cbdcentral.com.

CBD effects

The negative side effects of THC don’t occur when it comes to CBD, so this is a better alternative. This oil can affect various functions, including mood, immune responses and sleep. CBD has proven health benefits and it can be used for numerous things.

For example, people dealing with anxiety can use CBD to reduce it. This happens even when it comes to persons who have suffered from anxiety for a long time. On the other hand, THC, another important chemical component of the cannabis plant can lead to increased anxiety.
CBD can also help with tumors and researchers have reasons to believe that this oil can help shrink tumors. Additionally, studies have revealed that CBD could be used to stop malignant cells from spreading.

Ironically, enough, CBD can also be used for drug withdrawal, as well as smoking withdrawal. This would make CBD ideal for addicts or persons who are trying to get rid of a vice like smoking. According to some studies, withdrawal symptoms can be relieved with the help of CBD.

How to use CBD oil?

There are plenty of ways to use CBD, and you do not have to smoke it. For example, you could choose the simple method and use the oil itself. CBD oil can be taken orally. There are also CBD tinctures or drops which can be placed under the tongue.

It is also possible to use CBD oil with an e-cigarette. Edibles are another popular choice when it comes to CBD oil and you can find pre-packaged products on the market.

This is a guest blog entry.

Flexoplex Reviews: A Supplement That Supports Joint Health

Our body can suffer from age-related damage or acute injuries, with pain, reduced range of motion and inflammation being common manifestations of such problems. A number of medical conditions can lead to joint pain, including arthritis, gout and bursitis.

All joints can be affected, with the pain ranging from mild to severe. Medication, physical therapy and supplements can be used to obtain relief from experienced symptoms and improve the overall quality of life, preserving the joint function.

Flexoplex is a joint health supplement that can be taken for ankle pain and more. Its formula is based on active ingredients, which can provide relief from stiffness and pain, preventing further cartilage deterioration. Moreover, Flexoplex can support joint health, addressing the root causes of such issues.

What are the ingredients used in Flexoplex?

The joint relief product has a potent formula, with natural extracts that can relieve pain and eliminate the joint discomfort. The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin is particularly interesting, as these two ingredients can alleviate the symptoms and repair arthritis-related damage.

Glucosamine sulfate

This ingredient strengthens the joints and supports the health of the cartilage. It relieves moderate to severe joint pain, especially the one caused by osteoarthritis. It can also repair tissue damage, reduce inflammation and keep the joints lubricated.

Chondroitin sulfate

Used in combination with glucosamine sulfate, it guarantees significant pain relief and an improvement in overall mobility. It has amazing anti-inflammatory properties, repairs the cartilage and alleviates any discomfort experienced.

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)

It can alleviate muscle pain caused by joint damage, improve associated discomfort and reduce stiffness. The ingredient does wonders for joints affected by osteoarthritis.

Rutin

This is actually a flavonoid, with incredible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces the painful joint swelling in those who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, improving overall functionality.

Cat’s claw bark powder

This is an ancient traditional remedy, popular in South America. Added to joint health supplements, it brings relief from pain and inflammation (especially in cases of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis).

Boswellia Serrata gum powdered extract

Also a traditional ancient remedy, well-known in India and Asia, it relieves the pain and swelling caused by different types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). It improves joint discomfort, increasing the range of motion.

Hyaluronic acid

A natural component of cartilage, it is added to joint health supplements so as to cushion and lubricate the joints. It can make the joints healthier, allowing them to absorb shocks more efficiently. It can also reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve the overall range of motion.

Bromelain

An active substance commonly found in pineapple, it has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce joint discomfort, relieve stiffness and improve joint function (especially in case of osteoarthritis).

Trypsin

A potent enzyme, trypsin has been added to Flexoplex because of its pain-relieving properties. It can also provide relief from stiffness and improve range of motion (arthritis-related symptoms).
 
What is the best thing about Flexoplex?
It is not for nothing that Flexoplex has been nominated as the best supplement for joint pain. The product has a unique formula, with active ingredients that can rebuild and repair damaged joints. It keeps the joints lubricated, improving range of motion and, thus, the associated functions.

Flexoplex can fight common manifestations of arthritis, such as pain, inflammation and loss of function. As the joint function improves, one can resume normal, every-day activities, without experiencing any discomfort whatsoever. Moreover, Flexoplex can prevent further cartilage and joint damage.

The joint health supplement can relieve stiffness, making the joints more flexible. One can resume the regular routine, enjoying the improved quality of life. It will no longer be hard to get moving in the morning, as the joints will no longer be sore, swollen or painful to touch.

Where will you get Flexoplex?
Flexoplex can be purchased directly from the website of the manufacturer, at a truly advantagous price. You can purchase a bottle at the price of $39.95, enjoying the free offer for GreenPura (one bottle). The manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee for 60 days, during which you can return the product.

You can also purchase the Dual Flex System, at the price of $63.90. For this offer, you will receive the GreenPura bottle as well. Plus, you have a free shipping advantage to consider. The Extreme Value System refers to three bottles of Flexoplex, being available at the price of $119.85. If desired, you can purchase five bottles at the price of $199.75.

How much does Flexoplex cost?

As you have seen above, the price depends on the quantity you desire to purchase. You can begin with one bottle, at the price of $39.95. As this Flexoplex review clearly shows, you can take advantage of more interesting offers. You have the Dual Flex System, which costs $63.90; you can purchase three bottles at the price of $119.85 or five for $199.75.

In deciding on a particular purchase, you should take into consideration your diagnosis. If you are suffering from a chronic problem, you will need to take Flexoplex in larger quantities and for a longer period of time. On the other hand, you can purchase just one bottle and see how the supplement works for you. As always, it is important to consult with your physician with regards to medication management recommendations.

What do people say about Flexoplex?

Flexoplex has received positive reviews. It is considered an excellent joint relief product, providing relief from commonly-experienced symptoms, such as pain, stiffness and inflammation.

Some people who have purchased the joint health supplement have declared themselves to be satisfied with the results offered by sharing their success stories. It managed to provide pain relief in someone who suffered a knee injury, improve the overall functionality in a person who had arthritis and help with the faster recovery of a person who was involved in a car accident.

Flexoplex is known to provid visible results in a short period of time, allowing people to be finally free of pain and to forget all about joint discomfort. The supplement is also recommended by some health care professionals, including physicians and physical therapists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Flexoplex is a great product, one that can be taken to obtain relief from joint problems and their manifestations, such as pain, inflammation and stiffness.

The supplement is easy to take and recommended to those who have suffered acute injuries, regardless of the affected joints (knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, feet, etc.). It is great for mild to severe pain, working to improve the joint function and prevent further deterioration.

Flexoplex can do wonders for those who suffer from arthritis, regardless of the type. Thanks to its maximum strength formula, it relieves pain and inflammation, restoring the healthy joint function.

References:

1.    http://fpm.anzca.edu.au/documents/fact-sheet-1_patients-and-joint-pain.pdf

2.    http://www.ucd.ie/t4cms/Prof%20Gerry%20Wilson%20Causes%20and%20Treatement%20of%20Joint%20Pain.pdf

This is a guest blog entry.

Staying Healthy While Working in the Healthcare Industry

You would assume that people who work in the healthcare industry are some of the healthiest. This can certainly be the case, but a lot of these individuals are also struggling to maintain their health while trying to keep up with the physical, mental, and emotional demands of their jobs.

The healthcare industry, just like any other industry, presents workers with unique challenges. Some specific health challenges healthcare workers face include exposure to germs and infections, physical stress, and mental and emotional strain.

If you work in this industry, it’s essential that you make your own well-being a priority, both for yourself and for your patients. Listed below are some tips you can implement to keep yourself safe and healthy year round.

1. Shield Yourself from Infections

When you work in a hospital or physician’s office, your exposure to germs, viruses, and bacteria is quite high. It’s impossible for you to protect yourself from illness completely, but you can take steps to strengthen your immune system and minimize exposure as much as possible.

Some simple steps you can take include:

• Wash your hands after coming in contact with all patients
• Wear personal protective equipment (masks, eye shields, gloves, gowns, etc.) when necessary
• Stay up-to-date on immunizations for illnesses like influenza, chicken pox, hepatitis B, and measles

It’s especially important for you to prioritize these steps if you’re pregnant or dealing with a condition that compromises your immune system.

2. Protect Your Legs and Feet

If you work in the healthcare industry, chances are you spend a lot of time on your feet. This can wreak havoc on your legs and feet.

Sitting down on the job isn’t really an option, but you can find some relief from wearing compression socks for healthcare professionals.

Compression socks help improve blood flow and support tired limbs while minimizing soreness and stiffness. These socks come in a variety of styles, so be sure to shop around and try a few different options to see which one works best for your needs and preferences.

3. Use Proper Movement and Lifting Techniques

In addition to being hard on the feet and legs, working in the healthcare industry can also put a lot of strain on your back. This is especially true if you have to spend a lot of time lifting and transporting patients or moving equipment.

Be sure to use proper lifting techniques when working with patients or heavy equipment. This includes lifting with your legs rather than putting all the weight in your lower back.

You also shouldn’t hesitate to use a patient lift or other assistive device, or to ask a coworker for help, when you’re moving a patient. It’s not only better for you, but it ensures their safety as well.

4. Bring Your Own Meals

Ironic as it may be, a lot of the food available in hospitals and medical clinics isn’t exactly healthy. Instead of playing the guessing game and trying to figure out which of the cafeteria or vending machine offerings are the most nutritious, bring your own meals and snacks from home.

Salads, soups, wraps, and chicken/beef and rice bowls are all simple options that are easy to store and prepare ahead of time. Try setting aside an hour or so each week to prepare your meals so that you always have a healthy option on hand.

Not only will your health, homemade meals taste great, but they’ll also provide you with more sustained energy levels so you’ll have an easier time keeping up with your workload.

5. Beware of Signs of Burnout

Finally, remember that your mental and emotional health matters just as much as your physical health. It’s very common for healthcare workouts to develop symptoms of burnout syndrome.

Common symptoms of burnout syndrome include:

• Chronic fatigue, even on your off days
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty focusing or remembering
• Gastrointestinal issues, dizziness, or headaches
• Increased levels of anxiety
• Depression or mood swings
• Feelings of detachment or a loss of enjoyment in your work

The sooner you catch these symptoms, the sooner you’ll be able to make changes and prevent them from seriously impacting your health and well-being.

This is a guest blog entry.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities – What Are They?

Overview

Many people have heard the term CCRC or continuing care retirement communities, but they aren’t sure what those communities really are. In this article, we will take a look at what CCRCs are, what they offer and who is a perfect candidate for such communities.

The big difference between senior retirement homes and continuing care retirement communities is that the communities offer a continuum of care. They are generally situated on large lots of land and contain multiple buildings and wings. Such communities offer a full spectrum of senior living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and nursing care.

Amenities

In addition to various assisted living and healthcare services offered at continuing care retirement communities, retirees will also find numerous amenities that make their retirement life truly enjoyable. These amenities include things like swimming pools, country clubs, restaurants, shopping malls, private beaches (for those CCRCs that are beach-front), fitness centers, golf courses, on-site concerts and other entertainment and much more. Staying at continuing care retirement communities means that retirees get to enjoy all the amenities they have to offer, even if they don’t require any assistance with their daily lives.

Independent Living in CCRCs

Independent living offered at continuing care retirement communities generally means that older adults can live independent in senior living apartment complexes. Those adults who take advantage of independent living are mostly healthy and do not need any assisted living services. They often choose to stay at a continuing care retirement community because of the services and amenities offered there. Senior apartments offered in CCRCs will be specifically equipped for seniors. That means they will likely have non-slip flooring, grab bars (where needed), smart layouts without stairs, the latest appliances and more.

Assisted Living

CCRCs offer senior assisted living units as part of their care packages. Assisted living units in CCRCs are generally located in a separate wing of the community. There, older adults who need help with daily living, such as bathing, dressing or moving around, can receive assistance from qualified staff caregivers. Assisted living also includes things like help with medication management, bed and linen services and more. The great thing about assisted living in CCRCs is that when the health needs of an older adult change, they are able to receive a higher level of care without having to look for another facility, such as a nursing home.

Memory care

CCRCs offer memory care to those seniors who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Memory care at CCRCs is generally provided in separate memory care units, where there is higher security and special considerations given to programs and amenities for dementia sufferers. Special programs provided in memory care units in CCRCs may include activities and programs to promote brain activity and train memory and may also include special color-coded rooms.

Nursing Care

CCRCs will usually have nursing homes on-site, to provide 24/7 skilled medical care to those older adults who are in poor health and need constant medical attention. These may be adults who have suffered a stroke or have other medical conditions that prevent them from living relatively independently in the assisted senior living facilities inside the community. Nursing care wings in CCRCs will always have a nurse and often a doctor on staff responsible for constant monitoring of the residents.

Who are CCRCs for?

CCRCs are perfect for older adult couples who have different health care requirements. For example, one spouse may be completely independent and will not need any assistance, while another may be a good candidate for assisted living and needs some assistance with daily tasks. In such a case, both can live in the CCRC. Whenever the needs change, they can move to a different wing of the facility instead of looking for a new retirement community altogether. Continuing care retirement communities are one of the most expensive senior living options – but they are worth it.

This is a guest blog entry.

Two in One Care Tips for Keeping Your Beard and Skin Healthy

The good thing is that beard and skin care are not challenging, nor demanding – it’s all a matter of routine. For you to have a luscious beard and healthy skin, you need to adopt some new habits. Take a look at the following tips and tricks and you’ll be able to achieve the desired look.

Learn Your Skin Type

To begin with, you need to learn about your skin. If you’re having problems, chances are that you’re going with the wrong hygiene routine that’s unsuitable to your skin type.

Oily

If you’re the oily type, your skin produces an excess of sebum. It’s not at all difficult to recognize this skin type – it gives your face a shiny appearance.

It’s important to know that your skin doesn’t tolerate alcohol-based products. Therefore, aftershaves and cleansers that contain alcohol need to be removed from your bathroom cabinets.

Sensitive

If you’re constantly dealing with redness and irritation caused by various factors like stress and bad weather for example, your skin type is categorized as sensitive.

You need to be very gentle with your skin, so steer clear of rubbing and scratching. Make sure that the water isn’t too hot while shaving or rinsing. You should also apply products on your skin with special care.

Dry

Opposite to oily skin, dry skin type has less sebum – your skin doesn’t produce enough of it. As a consequence, your skin is dehydrated, and it feels inelastic – especially when you get out of the shower.

Similar to the hygiene routine for oily skin, you need to stay away from alcohol-based products. Hydration needs to be a vital part of your regimen.

Normal

If you have the normal skin type, you won’t have too much problems maintaining your skin or beard. This type doesn’t require special care, so you’ll manage just fine with regular instructions that we’ll discuss now.

Rinsing Opens Your Pores

The first half a minute of your routine needs to be about pores. Rinsing your skin with warm water will open them. This is a nice, gentle base for the beginning of your regimen. When your pores expand, the efficiency of the products you use will increase.

Wash Twice Per Day

The following thirty seconds are all about applying a skin cleanser. With gentle circular movements, you’ll be able to get rid of all bacteria, dead skin cells, and toxic particles that have a tendency to stick to your skin and pile up.

Instead of making harsh movements in order to remove water from your face, you should pat your towel until it dries. This way, you’ll be able to prevent issues like irritation and redness.
You should repeat this process twice per day; when you wake up, and before you go to bed.

Shampoo Your Beard

Skin cleanser isn’t appropriate for your beard. Facial hair requires a stronger cleaning product, because other than bacteria, dead skin cells, and different toxins, food particles also have a way of getting stuck in your beard. It’s important to take notice of the active ingredients listed on natural beard shampoos to ensure you choose a proper product; in this case we definitely advise not to go with the cheapest option, for obvious reasons.

For that reason, make sure to get a beard shampoo. Shampooing and rinsing needs to follow skin wash – you’ll be able to see effective results if you repeat it twice a day. You need a soft yet effective product that will make your beard strong, yet obedient. HiLee's Beard shampoo covers all the bases.

Moisturize for Elasticity

Your choice of moisturizer needs to be in accordance with your skin type. If you’re dealing with dry skin, your moisturizer needs to be rich in nutrients. On the other hand, oily skin requires gentle hydration that won’t clog your pores additionally.

As mentioned above, a sensitive skin type requires an especially gentle touch. So, you’re in need of a soft moisturizer that won’t disturb your skin’s flora. For normal skin, you need a moderate moisturizer that will keep your skin firm and elastic.

Like with skin wash and shampooing, you should moisturize your skin when you wake up and before you go to bed.

Apply Oil
 
To gain control over your beard, and give it a smooth, polished appearance, you need to apply beard oil. Nutritious beard oil will help your beard grow stronger, but, on the other hand, it will also help you get rid of mischievous hairs. The best way to apply beard oil is using a comb – thanks to this combination, you’ll be able to shape your beard just the way you want.

If you want to be a proud beardsman with clear, elastic skin, consider picking up these care tricks. The whole routine won’t take more than a couple of minutes of your day – you won’t even notice it once you adopt it and make it a permanent part of your hygiene regimen. And if you’re tired of your beard, don’t just let it grow wild, better to try a different look.

This is a guest blog entry.

How to Get Rid of Bruises - Top 5 Herbal Medicines

I am a believer in herbal medicines. Okay, say it with me…but on the other hand, I’d totally understand if you won’t. If you’ve been downing synthetic medicines or applying unnatural creams all your life, it’s hard to convince you to switch to a more organic treatment.

Why would you? They’re usually pharmaceutically-supported cures that are also widely recommended by doctors. And we all know doctors didn’t become doctors overnight. They spent countless hours burning the midnight oil just so they can help cure people. But before these inorganic medicines, what did they use in the past?

Herbalism or the use of plants for medicinal purposes has a long history from thousands of years ago during the Paleolithic era, and these were passed on from one generation to another. That’s why most of the baby boomers believe that plants are the panacea for every contusion you will ever have. This practice is prevalent in bucolic areas where hospitals and doctors are inaccessible, so they resort to herbal remedies which were also passed on to them from their ancestors. And if you ever speak to one, maybe their ‘healing’ stories will convince you. Anyhow, I’ve summed up the top 5 herbal medicines that will surely cure that one stubborn bruise that won’t go away.

1 Turmeric (Curcuma Longa)

Known as the “Golden Spice” which is extensively used as a spice for cooking; this powerful powder can do magic on your wounds! The use of turmeric for medicinal purposes dates back to ancient Chinese tradition and Indian Ayurveda practice to cure a vast array of skin diseases.

To date, it is well-known for its inflammatory components internally, and externally. There are a lot of turmeric teas infused with honey and lemongrass for sale (I just had one!). But it can also be applied topically to act as an anti-bacterial, and help stop bleeding. The magic that does that is the ‘curcumin’ component in turmeric.

2 Comfrey (Symphytum)

This is the main ingredient in some of the healing salves that are famously used for wounds, itches, and even sunburns! Allantoin, the healing component of comfrey, is responsible for cell reproduction, ergo, heals the wounds quickly. You can even use comfrey leaves and root as a hot compress for dislocations, and sprains. But of course, consulting a doctor is always the smartest option for major injuries. In addition, be cautious of taking comfrey internally as there were reports of toxic effects of a component called pyrrolizidine alkaloid from comfrey. When taken in large doses, it could possibly lead to liver damage!

3 Moringa (Moringa Oleifera)

Moringa is endemic to some parts in Africa and Asia and is otherwise known as ‘drumstick tree’ by the British. Our body needs its daily dose of vitamins to keep it healthy and just like a wound, it needs proper components to recuperate.

Ethyl acetate in Moringa oleifera leaves is known to have healing agents for skin wounds. Because of this amazing ingredient, the skin fibroblast propagates and migrates causing the wounds to close rapidly.

I can attest to the wonders of moringa, and I tell you it really does work! I once surfed on this island and got a really nasty wipeout; with no pharmacies or clinics available, I crushed a lot of moringa leaves using a mortar and a pestle until the oils and natural juices were extracted. Then I simply put it on my wound every day. And it drastically improved after a few days because it kept my wound dry and free from infection!

4 Arnica (Arnica Montana)

Considered as a wild plant imported to America from Europe, this sunflower-like plant grows from April through September. It’s also popularly called as ‘mountain tobacco’, and ‘leopard’s bane’. Sounds terrifying? Because it is! This isn’t for internal consumption. But if you use it topically, it can do wonders particularly easing super sore bruises.

The most popular way of using arnica is as an ointment but you can do a DIY application: Mix a tablespoon of arnica powder into a cup of boiling water, then let it boil for 10 minutes. Filter the compact powder using a burlap cloth, and apply to the wounded area.

5 Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory elements that are essential in treating wounds and fending off bacteria. Grab your favorite creams or lotions and put a dash of tea tree oil before you apply it to your skin, it helps fight fungal, bacterial, and viral infections as well. But not only that, it’s also a cure-all for acne, boils, abscesses, and even animal bite wounds!

Let me reiterate that it is common sense to consult a medical practitioner especially for major wounds, cuts, and bruises. If you feel that you can take matters into your own hands, you may do so but do it at your own risk.

This is a guest blog posting.

5 Top Conferences for Medical Professionals

A lot of the time, it’s easy to be skeptical about taking the time to attend a medical conference. After all, this generally means a lot of added work and budgeting in terms of figuring out who on your team will attend the conference, where they are going to stay, and who is going to help pick up the workload while they are away. However, conferences are well worth the time spent to attend them.

For one thing, the value of networking can’t be overstated. Conferences, in and outside of the medical field, tend to bring together not just rank-and-file workers, but the decision makers that you want to make connections with. Whether you are looking for mentorship or the chance to make partnerships down the line, you get the best chance of success by reaching out to people who are naturally motivated to excel in their fields. Medical conferences are a perfect example of this.

In addition, there’s a reason why so many important panels at conferences get covered in the news. Many experts take the chance to reveal important news and developments here because it has the most amount of eyes on things. As a result, choosing the right conference could put you in the best position possible to act and improve your practice. The key, though, is choosing the right conference to attend. Here are five standouts.

1. NatCon: Over 5,000 leaders in behavioral health came to the last NatCon Conference, held in Washington D.C. earlier this year. For next year, the event is going to take place in Nashville, and anyone who integrates behavioral health as a part of their job should consider attending. Mental health in general is getting more and more of a national spotlight, and people who visit the conference will get a chance to learn more about different healthcare innovations in this field. This includes new technology as well as integrated healthcare and practical tips to improve your practice. Different topics about policy and advocacy are also going to be up for discussion.

2. Patient Experience Conference: As every medical professional knows, putting together a positive patient experience and showing good bedtime manner are important to keep a good flow of patients coming. This is what the Patient Experience Conference covers every year. Not only are there going to be various panels and events to discuss how to better improve the patient experience in your own practice, you’re also going to be surrounded by other healthcare professionals who are looking to try and improve their own strategies. This makes a great chance to network.

3 National Health Policy Conference: In many cases, especially at the higher levels, the decisions you make as a medical professional or in a medical business are shaped by greater country-wide policy. That’s the main function of the National Health Policy Conference. Here, policy experts and decision-makers come together to take a look at some of the most important available evidence when it comes to the future of healthcare policies and coverage. In addition, experts will talk about how they formulate the research process to improve their policies.

4. MedTech Impact: MedTech Impact takes a bit of a unique spin on the classic idea of people learning about the latest developments in their field during a conference. This brings together medtech manufacturers along with people who are likely to use their products, from medical providers to investors to developers. The chief thing to discuss is the main developments in medical technology, and their potential impact down the line. This includes tech that helps with diagnosis and patient tracking as they recover.

5. CRT Meeting: CRT Meeting is one of the foremost conferences in the country when it comes to interventional cardiology, and brings in around 3,000 interventional and endovascular specialists for each annual event. As more and more CRT Meetings take place, the conference also is home to more and more notable guests and events. For example, the most recent 2018 CRT meeting featured the first live complex coronary case performed entirely by women. This marked only one of 16 live cases performed at the conference, and even more are planned for the future. The Washington, D.C. conference is actually several combined conferences, including:

•    CRT Valve & Structural
•    CRT Endovascular
•    Technology & Innovation
•    Atherosclerosis & Research
•    Nurses & Technologists

So, if you plan on attending one of these, what course of action should you take? For a start, try and prioritize what panels and events you want to see, and try to make connections with people you would like to meet well in advance. This makes sure you hit all your goals when the conference actually starts.

This is a guest blog entry.

Get a confident smile with bite correction technique

For your normal jaw and mouth functioning, your upper as well as lower teeth ought to come together for making an ideal relationship. However, when there isn’t a right relationship or when it isn’t centred appropriately, then it develops proprioception which is associated with how your body and mind feel the teeth coming together. When there arises a discrepancy of where the teeth have come together in comparison to where it ought to come together, you must find out the underlying reason behind it. The idea behind this is pretty simple; if you don’t get it corrected, then the imbalance will create adverse neurological and physical problems.

The best investment for baby-boomers is the orthodontic processes which will reposition their jaw and adjust the bite with the help of orthodontics. Additionally, it comprises a vast range of appliances that include those that are both fixed and removable. Most people are aware of temporal mandibular joint dysfunction. People with this condition find a problem in biting. The option of the diamond burrs method adjusts the surfaces of the tooth with the help of a smooth diamond burr, and due to this, your teeth come into their ideal relationship instead of getting misguided by inappropriate contact.

Hide your age with bite correction

With today’s high-tech dentistry, you can augment the shape of your face and most importantly, hide your age. This process of dentistry will also correct your bite and improve the extent of your chin without grinding down your tooth structure. The best part of this process is its speed, as it takes only some weeks to get the job accomplished. For getting this treatment, patients fly in from other nations and after the first phase gets completed, fly back and come back again for completion of the procedure. People opt for this treatment because their healthy teeth remain the same and they look many years younger.
 
Getting familiar with TMJ
 
Temporomandibular joint disorders or TMJ affect more than 10 million Americans. As this disorder causes numerous people discomfort and pain, so researchers have been devoting lots of time in establishing the ideal causes as well as treatments. However, the most excellent treatment for TMJ happens to be Occlusal Correction. TMJ is a debilitating disorder and its underlying causes and curing methods are poorly understood by the mainstream dentistry. This problem is considered chronic or acute inflammation of the temporomandibular joint. This joint is where the mandible gets connected to the bone which is at the side of your head.

It is considered one of the most important joints in your body as the motion permits you to chew, talk, yawn, etc. At times, trauma, like whiplash in the rear-ended automobile accident can give rise to the disorder. The best investment for baby-boomers suffering from TMJ is getting this problem cured as soon as possible. It is a considerable advantage as the patients can observe noticeable improvement without braces and jaw surgery. The solution to this problem is painless and gets completed fast.

This is a guest blog entry.