Gait and Balance Training – Helping Patients Get Back on Their Feet

Rehabilitation can be a frustrating and rewarding process.  Yet, as with many things in life, by implementing proven methods and using the right equipment, patients can get back on the road to recovery. HRS Direct is here to help provide the right tools for the task.

For example, let’s explore the benefits of a gait and balance training system.  These systems were developed as a means of helping people get back on their feet (literally) following a neurological disorder developed from stroke, injury to the spine, or other types of disease and incidents.

The point of gait and balance training is to “retrain” your brain to find alternate connections from those lost as a result of neurological damage. Therapists work with patients to help them regain balance, function, and stability.  Stability is the most important of the three because statistically speaking, nearly 40 percent of adults 65 and over fall each year, but never mention it to their doctor.  Falls are also the leading cause of injuries both fatal and non-fatal among the elderly in the US. In 2012 alone almost 2.5 million non-fatal falls occurred. Of those falls recorded close to 725,000 ended up having to be hospitalized. As the baby boomer population continues to age, we can only expect those numbers to increase.

Gait and balance training starts slow then gradually builds in intensity and duration until the patient can and walk without complications on their own. Once rehabilitation is completed the more the patient should continue to walk. In fact, believe it or not, a person's ability to walk is directly correlated with their lifespan. Studies have shown that once you reach age 70, the slower you walk, the greater your probability of death increases. By age 75 slow walkers live on average six years less than moderate walkers and 10 years less than fast walkers.

Gait and balance therapy has been used for many decades by physical and occupational therapists and has proven to be effective in helping get their patients back on their feet.  If your facility is looking for the best in medical supplies and equipment look no further than HRS Direct. 

HRS Direct – Making Healthcare Products Affordable and Accessible!!!

Wound Care – Tips for Enhanced Healing

It goes without saying that proper wound care involves keeping a wound as free from dirt and contaminates as much as possible. But there are many other factors at play in the healing process you should be aware of.  Extreme dryness/moisture, infection, excessive pressure, repeated trauma, edema, along with numerous other factors can also lengthen healing time.

When a wound is incurred the first thing to do is clean the affected area as safely and as soon as possible.  Leaving a wound untreated can lead to infection and ultimately a trip to the ER.  Try to avoid using things that can dry the wound out such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.  Experts suggest that clean water and mild soap are best for cleansing minor cuts.  Wash the wound for anywhere from 4-5 minutes.  Dress the wound in a dry bandage and be sure to change your dressings regularly.  More serious wounds should receive immediate medical attention. Use common sense; if you need to go to the emergency room go!

Once you are on the path of healing try to keep the wound moist if you can.  Proper moisture can not only enhance healing, but it can also aid in the reduction of scars.  Antibiotic ointment can help keep the wound free of bacteria and other potential infectious germs.  Use analgesics as directed. CAUTION: Overuse of topical gels and ointments can lead to over hydration which can cause other problems.  Signs of over hydration are best described as a wound getting “goopy” or “weepy”.  To counteract an over hydrated wound try to absorb the excess liquid in and around the wound with a clean towel or gauze. Do not try to let a scab form by airing the wound.  Contrary to popular belief, forming scabs can actually increase the time a wound needs to heal.

If your recovery time is expected to be lengthy, a great way to track your progress is to take a photo.  Most people or their children have a phone with a camera feature.  Take a photo of the wound, preferably with some type of measuring instrument such as a ruler in the photo near the affected area.  This will help you track the healing process.  You will also be able detect if things are getting worse early and allow you to take immediate action.

Lastly, a quick word on foot wounds:  Many people not only have trouble keeping track of a wound on the bottom of their foot, but have trouble seeing the bottom of their foot at all!  A quick trick involves using a simple handheld mirror.  While seated, place the mirror on the floor and gently lift the affected foot over the mirror.  You now should be able to view the wound easily and even take a photo as described in the previous paragraph.

So, in short, proper wound care requires some common sense and some not so common sense.  Of course, clean wounds using mild soap and water. Avoid astringents. Keep the wound moist, but not too moist.  Take photos to track your progress and use a mirror if necessary.  Consult with your physician to determine a wound healing regimen that’s right for you.  Best of luck and happy healing! If you are looking for medical supplies to assist in wound care look no further than HRS direct.

HRS Direct - Making Healthcare Products Affordable and Accessible!!!

Durable Medical Equipment for Bathroom Safety

One of the primary functions of durable medical equipment is to minimize the potential for injury from falls. One of the most commonplace areas for slips and falls is in the bathroom. It is estimated that nearly 250,000 injuries occur every year from falling in the bathroom.  Though not all of these falls are attributed to the elderly/disabled it's one area where a little caution can have a tremendous impact.

Safety First: Initially you should check your bathroom for slippery surfaces. Linoleum is a particular hazard because of its naturally slick surface. Tile is usually best where possible. If you have bath rugs, be sure to have them fitted with non-slip materials underneath to keep them in place. If possible, you can add traction stickers to the bottom of your bath or shower to give you more sure footing in this obviously slippery area.

Second: Don't Get Zapped. Make sure all electrical outlets are up-to-date and free from contact with water. Also, if you have many appliances requiring an electrical cord such as hair dryers, curling irons, etc., try to keep these things as far from water as is possible. This may seem like common sense, but you'd be surprised how many people are tragically electrocuted in the bathroom each year from not heeding this advice.

Third: Make Adjustments. It's amazing that despite the fact that we are all unique individuals’ our bathrooms heights and distances for toilets and sinks seem to be universal. As much as you can, try to adjust things to your needs. For example, make sure your bath controls are easily accessible and your towel racks are neither too high nor too low for you to reach. You can install safety rails in your shower. You can even place a shower chair in your bath/shower for convenience and safety as you are less likely to fall in the shower from a seated position.

Take a look at our quality Medical Equipment supplies at HRS Direct. By examining your situation and taking some simple precautions you can have one less thing to worry about in your day-to-day activities.

HRS Direct – Making Healthcare Products Affordable and Accessible!!!

Incontinence – Inconvenient, but not Incurable

Let’s face it; incontinence is never a popular topic of conversation in private, let alone at the holiday party. But did you know that over 18 million Americans are incontinent? Did you also know that 85 percent of them are women? 

Fortunately there's good news. Almost 80 percent of the cases mentioned above can either be cured or improved through proper medical attention.

Incontinence is defined as difficulty/inability in controlling proper elimination of waste passing out of the urinary or digestive tracts.  If any portion of the urinary or digestive tract fails to perform its proper activities incontinence can result.  Before you can treat incontinence you should meet with your doctor to figure out exactly what type of incontinence you have and what your options are for treatment.

Understand that incontinence is a symptom and not a disease as some might think. Changes in daily habits, exercise, nutrition, and medication regimens can vastly improve continence for some and completely cure it for others. Usually the true answer lies in a combination of some or all of the above-mentioned. In extreme cases restorative surgery may be in order.

Whatever the challenges you may be facing, HRS direct can help you with your short and long-term incontinence needs. HRS Direct can assist in providing you the best solutions that make living with incontinence or caring for someone with urinary or digestive tract issues that much easier. If you are looking for medical equipment and supplies count on a name you can trust.

HRS Direct – Making Healthcare Products Affordable and Accessible!!!

Rebound Health Tens Unit – IT Band Syndrome

Not many people are aware of a powerful muscle that runs alongside your leg.  It’s called the Iliotibial band or IT for short.  It connects to your hip and knee helping you walk and run. 

Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when the IT band becomes inflamed through overuse, usually from running (hence the name ‘Runners Knee’) with improper body mechanics and/or weakness in the other muscle groups supporting the IT band. 

IT band syndrome (ITBS) symptoms include sharp, stabbing pains usually on the lateral side of the knee as you run, especially down a steep decline. If left untreated, IT band syndrome can become debilitating and may require corrective surgery.

While rest, ice, and stretching are helpful, there is a complementary relief available for ITBS in a nonprescription form. The Rebound transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation(TENs) may be just the thing to alleviate your pain in two ways. First it interrupts the pain signals to the brain from the affected source. Second, it helps stimulate your natural endorphin production to allow for longer-term pain relief.  Get your relief today by clicking on the link above.

Rebound Health – Simply Surround Your Pain, Power Up and Go!

Ebola Safety Tips – How to Protect Yourself and Others

Ebola – It’s a word that sends fear into the hearts of men, women, and children. The CDC recognizes that the epidemic stemming from West Africa is the largest reported outbreak yet. So for just under 5000 cases have been reported. Only two known cases have left Africa.

Many people have a right to be concerned. Symptoms can present themselves anywhere from 2 to 21 days after being exposed to the virus. Symptoms include: severe headache, fever, muscular pain, diarrhea and/or vomiting, abdominal pain - especially in the stomach, and mysterious bleeding or bruising. If left untreated, there is a high risk of death.

The good news is the only way that you can contract the virus is by coming in contact with bodily fluids of someone infected with Ebola. In fact, it is actually fairly difficult to catch. Of the recently identified 48 people they came in touch with the first human death from Ebola, Thomas Duncan, none of them have been diagnosed with the Ebola virus disease (EVD). Of course, healthcare workers are still going to wear protective gear because of the deadly effects of this virus.

Protective methods include:

• Practicing thoughtful hygiene – washing hands regularly with soap and water as well as hand sanitizers where available
• Avoid contact with anyone who is expressing or outwardly showing any of the above symptoms mentioned
• When going to doctors’ appointments where a protective mask if available and again avoid contact with anyone who is showing any of the symptoms above
• Avoid travel to West Africa or any of the locations where Ebola has been confirmed

This article is for informational purposes only.  Though HRS direct is your wholesale medical supplies leader we do not sell nor offer medical equipment or supplies to protect against or treat the Ebola virus. Be smart, be safe, and above all be healthy.

HRS Direct – Making Health Care Products Affordable and Accessible!!!

Rebound TENS unit Series – Featuring Pain Relief from Pro Skating Legend Mike McGill

If you've ever watched a professional skateboarding film you know there is usually a healthy segment of the video dedicated to crashes, biffs, falls, fails, bails, broken boards, broken appendages, and pain - lots of pain usually followed by a round of screaming and cursing.  This is why skateboarding legend Mike McGill (inventor of the “McTwist”) and BioMedical Life Systems have teamed up to bring you the Rebound® Health TENS unit, a revolutionary product designed to combat the inevitable pains that can come with serious skating. McGills skate shop now proudly offers the Rebound® to the public to help you get relief when you need it most.

The Rebound TENS unit brings you relief in two ways.  First, it interrupts the pain signals to the brain.  If you interrupt the signal, you don’t feel the pain!  Second, it stimulates your body’s natural production of endorphins to give you long lasting pain relief.  It's super easy to set up. Just follow the instructions provided on where to place the pads, turn it on and go! Yep, that’s it.

Athletes from all walks of life are turning to professional strength pain relief without a prescription. Winner of the 2014 HME innovative retail product awards, the Rebound TENS unit gives you convenient pain relief wherever you are, whenever you need it. Want to know where you can get yours? Head over now to McGill’s Skate shop or order your Rebound TENS unit online by clicking here .

Rebound Health TENS Device – Simply Surround Your Pain, Power Up and GO!

Durable Medical Equipment – We’ve Got You Covered

DME Durable medical equipment is defined as medical equipment used at home deemed necessary by a qualified physician to enhance quality of life at home.  Medicare’s definition of durable means ‘long-lasting’.  This can include, but is not limited to:

• Wheelchairs
• Hospital Beds
• Glucose monitors
• Breathing aides/equipment
• Walking aides
• Braces
• Passive Movement Machines
• Lifts
• Prosthetics
• CPAP – Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines
• Therapeutic shoes and/or inserts
• Traction Equipment
• Etc

Some of these items are covered by Medicare and/or insurance.  Others are not.  Check with your insurance to see if you are eligible.  Once you have found you are eligible you can count on HRS Direct your premier provider of dme durable medical equipment to ensure you have the best products and supplies available. Contact us today to see how HRS Direct can help with your dme durable medical equipment needs by calling 800.457.0477 or simply click on the link above.

Save Time and Money - Keep Your Exam Room Stocked

Whether you are the one stocking the exam room or a physician nothing is more frustrating or embarrassing than running out of the necessary supplies to treat your patients in a timely manner. Having to go to another exam room to "rob Peter to pay Paul" is not only inconvenient but preventable in most cases.

We at HRS Direct realize that we can't physically stock your exam room for you. However, when implemented, a few steps can ensure that physicians, patients and office staff can focus on the task at hand rather than sifting through exam rooms trying to figure out why they ran out of cotton balls.

Take Regular Inventory – You might groan at this first suggestion. However studies have shown that having something as simple as an inventory sheet on hand or in electronic form can help keep you and your office staff informed of what medical supplies you are in need of and which ones you have ample supply. You can use something as simple as a sheet where you slash through the number as you use them; have a list of categories where you put a tally mark next to it once you've used a certain item; or for the really sophisticated, have an electronic system where when you click on a certain button and that particular item is removed from your inventory and updated in your office database.

Know the Cycles - a quick look at the last 12 months of your inventory and you'll quickly see patterns develop seasonally when you're in need of certain supplies over others. Anticipate these ahead of time and you will get a better handle on what you need during certain times of the year.  Your keen sense of anticipation may lead to more business because you have ample supply of a certain item when your competitors have stocked out…again.

Delegate – If you are a controlling physician you might try and take this on yourself.  Don't fall into this trap. Your energies and talents are better spent on activities that focus on your expertise and diagnoses. Your staff is there to help. Designate one person to keep track of inventory and hold them accountable keeping your exam rooms stocked. Teach them the two previous steps suggested and don't forget to give them encouragement as it will be a process of adjustment for everyone involved.

We are here to help too. Count on HRS Direct your premier provider of medical equipment and supplies to keep your exam rooms stocked with the best. Contact us today to see how HRS Direct can help with your home care needs by calling 800.457.0477 or simply click on the link above.

HRS Direct – Making Health Care Products Affordable and Accessible!

Adult Home Care – Like the Boy Scouts “Be Prepared”

Life is full of challenges. One of those challenges may require having to care for a loved one at home due to disability or old-age. People requiring assistance don’t want to be a burden upon a caregiver and the caregiver wants their loved one to feel supported rather than feel like they are a nuisance. For those requiring care, know that is not a sign of weakness to ask for help. For those offering help, know it's going to be an adjustment for everyone involved; be patient with the process.

Be Prepared- Making sure you have the right tools can make all the difference in an in-home care situation.  Whatever the situation is make sure you get a list of the necessary supplies from your medical practitioner.

Get On A Schedule- The process of in-home care can be a frustrating one as everyone adapts. Running out of necessary medical supplies can only add fuel to the fire. It can be easy to get on a regularly scheduled delivery program. Be sure to adjust as necessary and as expenses/insurance will allow.

Stay in touch – be sure to update your loved ones physician if their symptoms and/or condition changes. The bettering communication you stay with your physician's office the quicker you can head off potential problems and anticipate different equipment and supplies you might need for the future.

Stay Positive – for both the caregiver and the patient it's important to keep a good attitude. Find the humor in things even when things aren't so nice. Laugh, joke, and uplift each other. It's easy to get caught in a downward spiral of negativity and frustration. But if you look at the situation as your both in it together those more room for support and happiness than you might think.

Regardless of your situation, we are here for you. HRS Direct is your premier provider of new home health care products online to support patients and caregivers. Contact us today to see how HRS Direct can help with your home care needs by calling 800.457.0477 or simply click on the link above.

HRS Direct – Making Health Care Products Affordable and Accessible!

Car Accident Related Injuries: Pain Relief is On the Way!

Few things in life can wreak havoc on our bodies like a car accident.  It is estimated that anywhere from 2-3 million injuries occur every year from car crashes. For those who are lucky enough to walk away from a car accident, often there is a long road of recovery ahead.

The most common car accident related injuries are: whiplash, back strain, sprained or broken arm and/or leg, and hip injuries. The severity of your injuries will determine your course of treatment.

When discussing your treatment options with your physician consider asking them about using a tens unit. A tens unit such as the Rebound® health tens device can help provide a paid relief for many situations. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (tens) provides pain relief in two ways: First, it interrupts the pain receptors and their nerve pathways to the brain; no signal to the brain means no pain. Second, it stimulates your body's production of endorphins which can provide long-lasting drug free pain relief.

To get your Rebound® pain relief without a prescription call: 800.457.0477 or click here

Rebound Health – Simply surround your pain, power up and go!

Rebound - Pain Relief after Surgery

Pain control is the number one priority after surgery of any kind. Since all surgery is deemed "traumatic" some discomfort is to be expected on your path to healing.

However advancements in medicine and technology have helped us significantly reduce pain and even shorten recovery time after an operation.

Traditionally pharmaceuticals and physical therapy have been the prescribed method for rehabilitation. However, as our understanding of alternative methods increases, doctors are now finding it helpful to use a combination of both traditional and nontraditional methods to help patients get back on their feet.

Studies have shown an effective complementary method used for pain relief is the use of a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator, or tens unit for short. Tens units, like the Rebound® health tens device, offer pain relief without a prescription. The tens unit in its electrical impulses blocking pain receptors as well as stimulating production of your body's natural painkillers called endorphins. Using the Rebound® in conjunction with your physician’s treatment plan could help you manage your pain without the use of drugs.

To get your Rebound® pain relief without a prescription call: 800.457.0477 or click here.

Rebound Health – Simply Surround your pain, power up and go!

Ankle Injuries: Causes and Treatment

Did you know it’s estimated that over 25,000 people sprain their ankle every day?  More than half of those injuries are sports related. Many of the other injuries most likely occur while either walking on unstable surfaces or loss of balance.  Without proper rehabilitation, some pain related to ankle injuries may never truly go away.

The ankle joint consists of several bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels that allow for this dynamic structure to give us balance, stability, and most importantly, movement.  Anyone who has sprained their ankle understands very quickly how debilitating loss of function in this joint can be.

The largest numbers of injuries tend to occur in people men between 15 to 24 and women over 30.  There are three general types of ankle injuries: sprains, strains, and fractures. Each type of injury is determined by what structure is damaged. Sprains indicate damage to ligaments. Strains specify damage to muscle and/or tendons. Fractures obviously indicate damage to bone.

The time required for rehabilitation such injuries will vary depending on the severity of the injury sustained.  Mild injuries generally take 2 to 4 weeks before full function is regained. Moderate injuries can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to heal. Severe injuries that fracture a bone or severe a tendon can require 12 weeks to six months; even then full function may never be regained.

Treatment during rehabilitation stage can include but not limited to: rest, ice, compression, elevation (R.I.C.E.); Physical Therapy; Prescription or over the counter anti-inflammatory medications. Drug-free pain relief can also be used during this phase by using a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (tens) such as the Rebound® Health tens device.  

Tens unit therapy offers pain relief in two ways: first, electrical stimulations interrupt the pain receptors in the area of your body telling your brain you are in pain. Second, they stimulate your body’s natural painkillers called endorphins. Tens unit therapy, along with rest and appropriate rehabilitation exercises, can help to potentially reduce recovery time. Be sure to discuss your treatment plan with your doctor.

Own the safe, drug free option that requires no special training to get the relief you've been waiting for.  Call 800.457.0477 or click here to find your pain relief today!

Don’t miss the “Mexicutioner” in the Bellator 124 tonight!!!

Joey Beltran is fighting for the MMA Championship Belt tonight on Fox Sports.  Joey is an American professional Light Heavyweight fighter competing in the Bellator MMA (mixed martial arts) championships.  At 6’1” and 205 pounds, Joey takes on Emanuel Newton tonight.  He won his last fight against Vladimir Matyushenko in the Bellator 116. The Bellator is one of the toughest tournaments in sports and athletes like Joey Beltran rely on the ReboundActiv TENS unit which provides Pain Relief through a portable electrotherapy device.

Rebound – professional pain relief without a prescription!

Rebound Pain Relief - Helping with ACL and PCL Sports Injuries

There are two major ligaments that provide stability in the knee, they are known as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Any injury to either of these ligaments without proper treatment and rehabilitation can lead to chronic pain and even long-term disability.

You're probably familiar with the ACL because this ligament is the one most often associated with sports injuries. The most common cause of injury to the ACL is due to a planting and turning movement or a blow to the knee from behind by another player while the foot is planted. The most common sports where ACL injuries occur are: football, basketball, soccer, and skiing.

PCL injuries generally happen when the foot is planted and a blow to the knee from the front occurs. However it can also occur from sudden twisting motion in the opposite direction of an ACL injury. PCL injuries also occur in football, basketball, soccer and skiing. However they are more often found in football and soccer.

Treatment for an ACL or PCL injury depends on the severity. Initial treatment for an injury of this kind is referred to as the "R.I.C.E” treatment: this stands for rest, ice, compression, elevation. If either the ACL or PCL is torn often surgery followed by rigorous physical therapy and anti-inflammatories is the prescription of choice. 

As part of their rehabilitative process, along with strength training, athletes will often use a tens unit such as the Rebound® to fight pain and allow for freedom of movement.  Tens-transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can interrupt pain signals to the brain and stimulate endorphins for drug-free pain relief.

Range of motion is often restricted with knee injuries due to swelling and pain impeding a patient's ability to move their leg as it heals.  A TENS unit can bring relief to those areas and allow the patient to move freely bringing much-needed strength and support to the knee potentially improving the healing process.

To get your Rebound® pain relief without a prescription call: 800.457.0477 or click here

The InTENSe REBOUND® – Chronic Pain Management Series Part 5

Chronic Hip Pain – The Mother of all Chronic Pain

If you've been following our pain management series from the beginning we saved the best for last:  The mother of all chronic pain – hip pain.

“Why the hip?” you might ask.  Well, for starters the hip joint is the largest joint in the body.  To review a concept brought up in our article on knee pain, joint pain is often the strongest and most chronic type of pain in the body.  This is because high concentrations of pain receptors called nociceptors are found at each of the joints in our body.  Simply put, since the hip is the largest joint in the body it has the highest concentration of pain receptors.  Higher nociceptor concentration means if the area gets injured you are going to feel the pain more intensely than places with lower nociceptor concentration on the body. 

Despite being the largest joint in the body, the hip is actually quite simple.  The hip socket is formed by three bones coming together to form what is known as the acetabulum.  These are the ischium, ilium and pubis bones.  The head of the femur fits into the hip socket in a “ball joint” fashion.  This allows the hip to perform circumduction, movement up to 360 degrees, and bend past 90 degrees (though we don’t recommend trying to test this).   In order to perform these functions the hip has 20 different muscles, four major ligaments, the hip capsule, major blood vessels including the femoral artery, and 8 major nerves all work together to provide activity and protection for this vital area of the body.

Some of the root causes of chronic hip pain are:  fractures, inflammation (bursitis, tendinitis), tendon and/or muscle strain, Osteonecrosis (also known as avascular necrosis), cancer, and degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis, arthritis, Perthes disease, lupus, and fibromyalgia.  If left untreated, hip pain can lead to other symptoms such as sciatica, toxic synovitis, hip dislocation, tenosynovitis, Reiter’s syndrome, hip fractures, and complications to areas above and below the affected site due to body compensation.   Need we go on?

Treatment for hip pain depends on the severity, acuity, and how long your pain has been going on for.  Rest is usually recommended for non-traumatic hip pain associated with exercise.  Hip pain treatment originating from disease requires proper diagnosis, treatment plan, and monitoring.  Traumatic accidents, sudden loss of function, or excessive swelling around the joint are also reasons to seek immediate medical attention.  Holistic therapies such as massage therapy, acupuncture, electro stimulation therapy and other treatments are recommended for hip pain that is more chronic than acute.

While you are seeking ways to cure your hip pain consider using the REBOUND® TENS (transcutaneouselectrical nerve stimulation) for both immediate and long lasting pain relief.  The REBOUND®  Health TENS device uses revolutionary technology to counteract your pain in two ways.  First, gentle stimulation is used to block the electrical pain signals to the brain.  In short, if the signal doesn't make it to the brain, you don’t feel the pain.  Second, electrical stimulation enhances the body’s ability to produce endorphins offering long lasting pain relief.  Don’t wait!  Call 800.457.0477 or click here to find your pain relief today!

The InTENSe REBOUND® – Chronic Pain Management Series Part 4

Chronic Neck and Shoulder Pain – Causes and Solutions

Call it what you will, “stiff neck”, “neck strain”, “whiplash”, “frozen shoulder”, “I slept on it wrong and it won’t let me concentrate”, “worst tension headache in the world”, however you describe your condition it can be summed up into four words:  neck and/or shoulder pain.

But we’re not talking about just any pain are we?  We’re talking about pain that doesn’t go away.  The kind of pain that steals our sleep, interrupts our work, gives us excruciating headaches, and makes us “more grumpy than the boss on Monday morning” kind of pain.

The neck is one of the most intricate and complex parts of our body.  All of our major nerves, blood vessels, gray matter, muscles, ligaments and tendons run right through the neck.  First and foremost the neck is designed to house and protect the spinal cord.  No spinal cord, no brain function, no brain function…you know where this is going. 

Causes of chronic neck pain are varied.  Accidents, disease, inflammation, muscle irregularities, herniated discs, stenosis, degeneration of the neck structures, and nerve impingement are but a few of the origins of this debilitating situation.  Oddly enough, the more acute the pain is, often the easier it is to identify its cause.  The more chronic the pain, the more difficult it becomes to identify because of all the factors mentioned a moment ago.

So what do I do about chronic neck pain? We’re glad you asked.  Neck pain treatment depends on the person.  If you are looking for a more drug free solution, then herbs, massage, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, physical therapy and exercise are just some of your options to consider.  If your situation is more serious you may need to seek medical attention and may lead to pain medication and possible surgery.

The most important thing to keep in mind is not to ignore neck pain.  Your treatment plan for your neck pain will be as unique as you are.  In the meantime, why not get immediate relief without a prescription?  The REBOUND® TENS unit by biomedical life systems uses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation(TENS) to alleviate your pain at the source.  First it targets pain receptors that signal pain to the brain and interrupts these signals for immediate relief.  Second, it stimulates your body to produce its own natural pain killers called endorphins for longer lasting results.  It is a safe, drug free option that requires no special training to get the relief you’ve been waiting for.  Call or click here to find your pain relief today!

The InTENSe REBOUND® – Chronic Pain Management Series Part 3

Chronic Knee Pain – Don’t Let it Get in Your Way

Did you know that one third of all visits to the doctor are muscle and/or bone related? Of those visits knee pain is one of the most common reasons people are crowding the waiting room.

The knee is one of the most complex joints in our body.  No other joint in the body has four bony structures that meet at one place like the knee does.  They are the femur, patella, tibia, and fibula.  In between these bones are cartilage, ligaments, and muscle tendons.

Why does knee pain hurt so badly?  One of the major reasons knee pain hurts so bad is the fact that it’s a joint.  Every joint in your body has concentrated amounts of various nerve bundles surrounding it to help you move and give feedback to the body.  These increased amounts of pain receptors known as nociceptors are also the reason why it hurts worse to bang your knee into a desk than it is to bump your leg into a counter.  Both hurt, but you have experienced either of the injuries just mentioned, you obviously have felt the difference.  Strangely, there are no pain receptors in the cartilage so if the origin of your pain is from this type of tissue breakdown chances are by the time you feel the pain the major damage has been done. Knee pain can also be referred pain from injury to the hip, ankle, or low back so proper diagnosis is critical for proper treatment.

Reasons for knee pain are about as unique as you are.  However, they can be summarized into five categories: arthritis, tracking disorders, trauma, disease, and repetitive strain.  Knee arthritis is the number one cause of knee pain and affects over 10 million Americans.  Tracking disorders occur from muscles and ligaments surrounding the knee that are tighter or looser than they should be pulling the knee cap out of alignment.  Trauma is self-explanatory.  Accidents, injuries, and other trauma can cause all sorts of trouble for the knee.  Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Osgood-Schlatter disease, degenerative joint disease, and others not mentioned are other reasons for chronic knee pain.  Lastly, repetitive strain through misuse, abuse, attributed to work or sports activities can also lead to chronic knee pain.

Treatment for chronic knee pain depends on the severity of your condition.  If you have not been properly diagnosed consult with your physician about your symptoms to understand exactly what you’re dealing with.  If the pain originates from trauma or degeneration your treatment may include prescription medication, surgery, electrical stimulation and supplements as appropriate.  If the pain is from muscular issues, treatments can include changes in diet and exercise, medications and herbal treatments, as well as physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, and electrical stimulation.

Regardless of your chronic knee pain level transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can help.  Transcutaneouselectrical nerve stimulation (TENS) treats the symptoms of knee pain from two angles:  First, it interrupts the constant signals the nociceptors mentioned earlier continuously send from your knee area to your brain causing you pain.  Second, use of safe electrical impulses from the REBOUND®  TENS unit stimulate production of natural pain killers called endorphins to give you long lasting relief.  Call 800.457.0477 or click here to find your pain relief today!

The InTENSe REBOUND® – Chronic Pain Management Series Part 2

Chronic Lower Back Pain - We’ve Got Your Back

Low back pain is something the majority of us will experience at some point in our lives. Did you know that in the U.S. alone over $86 billion is spent  to treat low back pain annually?  This exceeds the annual GDP of Jamaica, Iceland, and Cambodia put together!

Chronic low back pain is defined as pain in the lower back region extending beyond 3 months.  The more chronic the pain often the more difficult it is to treat.  The low back consists of the muscle structures in between the lower ribs, the hip bones, and the tail bone.  There are no bony structures to support this area other than the narrow column of lumbar vertebrae located directly in the center of the back.  It is no wonder the lumbar vertebrae are the widest and strongest bones of the spine. 

Even with the vast network of muscle, connective tissues, bones, and ligaments working together to support the low back, sooner or later it falls victim to one of three things: gravity, degeneration of tissues, or trauma.  Gravity is always working on us and over the years muscle, bone, and connective tissue can break down impinging nerves or damaging other structures.  Some of us suffer from genetic abnormalities such as degenerative disc disease, fibromyalgia, spondylitis, and other debilitating conditions can inevitably cause low back pain.  It goes without saying that trauma is a major cause of low back pain, but it’s shocking how few of us actually do something about it before it’s too late.

Left untreated lower back pain can exacerbate to conditions such as a herniated disc, irreparable nerve damage, loss of bowel and bladder function, “foot drop” – (when your feet drag as you walk and you literally have to lift them consciously to keep them from dragging), and increased pain that can only be managed instead of cured.

There is hope.  Early diagnosis and treatment are key to counteracting chronic lower back pain; not to mention cost effective!  If you or someone you know suffers from chronic lower back pain the REBOUND® transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator can be used for fast, effective pain relief for low back pain.

TENS - Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation uses safe electrical stimulation to simultaneously block pain signals to the brain and encourage your body’s natural production of endorphins for long lasting pain relief.  No other TENS unit in the market is as easy and effective as the REBOUND®.  The REBOUND®  is a safe, drug free option for pain relief at your fingertips.  Call 800.457.0477 or click here to find your pain relief today!

The InTENSe REBOUND® – Chronic Pain Management Series Part 1

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – It’s all in the Wrist

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is more common than you might think.  Today nearly 10 million American’s suffer from this type of chronic pain and that number is growing.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a form of chronic pain caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist.  You have eight bones in your hand called carpal bones. Carpus is a variation of the Greek karpos meaning “wrist”.  The carpal bones form a “U” shape with a tendon that spans the top of the “U” forming a tunnel; hence, the “carpal tunnel”.   Muscles, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels pass through the carpal tunnel allowing for function of the hand and wrist. 

Any pressure within the carpal tunnel space can cause numbness and tingling in the index finger, ring finger, and thumb as well as pain ranging from light to severe.  If untreated, CTS can lead to hand weakness, loss of coordination, and overall grip loss in the affected limb.  Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include but are not limited to: repetitive stress, arthritis, obesity, hypothyroidism, oral contraceptives, diabetes, prediabetes, tumors, and trauma. 

Treatment for chronic pain associated with CTS depends on the severity of your symptoms.  Pharmaceuticals, splints, massage, and physical therapy are often used to treat light to moderate CTS.  Extreme treatments for severe cases include administering corticosteroids and surgery.  In recent years TENS units have shown to help alleviate musculoskeletal pain associated with CTS regardless of severity.  

TENS is short for “transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation”.  TENS units use electrical impulses to interrupt pain receptors in the body and encourage production of endorphins to reduce and alleviate pain.  If you suffer from mild to chronic pain resulting from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome the REBOUND®  transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for chronic pain may be just what you are looking for as an alternative to drugs or surgery.  Call 800.457.0477 or click here to find your pain relief today!

ReboundActiv Clash at Clairemont 8

See how skateboards who push themselves to the limit every day get their pain relief.

http://youtu.be/mB9V-zZ4GSg

The Rebound TENS device was showcased at the Clash at Clairemont 8 to support Grind for Life. Many top skateboarders and BMX riders got to try the Rebound TENS unit first hand. These tough athletes push themselves to the limit every day, and when they need to recoup and rebound, they now grab their Rebound TENS unit for quick pain relief!

The REBOUND® is a TENS unit that is FDA registered Class II Medical device and is now available without a prescription! The REBOUND® is a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) pain relief device that works "through the skin", emitting a "tingling sensation" to help you manage your pain without the use of drugs. It is non-addicting, simple to use, affordable and effective.

http://www.reboundpainrelief.com

Chronic Pain Management

Over 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain.

Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than three months. The pain level can range from mild to excruciating and may be present periodically throughout the day, quite frequently, or continuous.

Chronic pain may have its origins from a surgery, accident, or other trauma to the body. In some cases, there is no identifiable link to a past injury, there is just pain.

Stress, anxiety, anger, and depression can exacerbate the problem by reducing the body’s production of natural pain killers – endorphins.

Endorphin comes from a concatenation of

Endogenous + Morphine

… meaning a morphine-like substance originating from within the body.

The REBOUND® TENS Unit from BioMedical Life Systems can help. This TENS Unit is available without prescription and works to manage pain in two ways.

First, REBOUND® uses continuous mild electrical stimulation to block the electrical pain signals traveling along the nerves to the brain. If the pain signals don’t get to the brain, the pain is not felt.

Second, REBOUND® alternates the above stimulation with short bursts of mild electrical activity to help to release the body’s own pain fighting mechanism, endorphins. 

The REBOUND® outputs a stimulation pattern that encompasses both of these pain management techniques making it the best TENS unit available today. The REBOUND® does this automatically without any adjustments from the user making pain relief, simple, easy and effective.  The REBOUND® non-prescription TENS unit is truly like no other.

Find your pain relief today.