Lymphedema – Avoidance and Bandaging

Posted on July 7, 2009 by Vanda Lancour

Last month we addressed what lymphedema is, being primary or secondary lymphedema. We discussed the lymphatic system, and the factors that contribute to lymphedema.  (Please click here to go to the prior Leg Health News).This issue we would like to discuss avoiding lymphedema and keeping it in check should you have already developed.

Avoid Temperature ExtremesThe temperature of your surroundings is very important.  You should avoid temperatures extremes such as hot baths or shower, extended time in the sun, or travel into colder or hotter climates. You should also avoid infestations or blunt trauma.  Infection causing events include insect bites, manicures, pedicures, pet scratches.  Trauma includes avoiding lifting heavy objects, blood pressure cuffs on the effected limb, tight clothing, tennis or golf.Eat A Balanced Diet to Avoid obesity in Lymphedema

 A diet plentiful in fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet is suggested.  This will also help avoid obesity.  Alcohol and nicotine should be kept to a minimum, if at all.  Meticulous skin and nail care is very important.  Sleeping with the affected limb elevated and/or wrapped is helpful. Of course, a little time spent in exercising, walking, swimming, etc will be of great benefit.  If you see any changes to the coloration or size of the effected limb or if you are concerned with changes to the body always seek medical attention.

 All of the above suggestions are to help prevent the lymphedema or keep it in check. Once lymphedema has developed, many times Manual Lymph Drainage and Complete Decongestive Therapy (MLD/CDT) are required to return the affected limb to a normal or near normal size.

 There are for steps of complete decongestive therapy

1. Hygiene and Topical Skin Products

Meticulous hygiene with or without antibiotics is essential. The goal is to eliminate bacteria or fungus on the skin which can lead to repeated attacks of erysipelas (an acute streptococcus bacterial infection of the dermis, resulting in inflammation and characteristically extending into underlying fat tissue) and/or lymphangitis (an inflammation of the lymphatic channels themselves that occurs as a result of infection at a site distal to the channel).

2. Manual Lymph Drainage, MLD

A special lymphatic decompressive massage is given for one hour once or twice a day. This involves specific manual movements along lymphatic pathways that empty and decompress obstructed lymph vessels. Such therapy facilitates the unhindered flow of lymph fluid into the venous circulation, where it is suppose to go, and allows the limb to return to normal or near normal size. Accomplished by utilizing subcutaneous lymph vessels, existing lymphovenous system and other segments of the lymphatic network which cross the midline of the body, go around the back, over the top of the shoulder

3. Application of compression dressing

Bandaging of the affected limb follows each MLD session. The bandages used for this are short stretch bandages (not ace bandages) and compensate for the diminished tissue pressure in lymphedema. This is an important component of the MLD therapy in that it augments the diminished tissue pressure and prevents the affected limb from refilling with evacuated lymph. The bandages are worn overnight until the next MLD session is about to begin. At the end of the course of treatment when the limb is normal or close to normal, a compression garment is ordered. Many times this is a custom garment which is made especially for you.

4. Remedial Exercises and ElevationExercise with Bandages in Place

Remedial exercises with the bandages in place are prescribed. This step activates each muscle group and joint of the swollen limb and results in an increase in lymph flow and, over time, in dilation of the lymph vessels. Whenever possible, it is recommended that the patient sleep with the swollen limb elevated to or just above the heart. Bandaging is one of the skills taught to each patient during treatment. When elevation is required, it is best done by using foam pad bolsters which can be readily purchased.

The effects of compression are to control the lymphedema. Compression from bandaging or stockings raises the tissue (interstitial) pressure and thereby reduces the effective ultra filtration pressure which results in less lymph fluid accumulation and less fluid having to be removed from the tissue spaces. Compression improves the efficiency of the muscle and joint pumps. As the lymph is being propelled through the lymph vessels by muscular activity, by the contraction of the vessels themselves, and by movements of the diaphragm (breathing), compression assists in the rapid flow of the lymph.

 After the course of therapy is completed is not uncommon for it to become necessary to wrap in the evening as a “tune-up” and wear the compression garments during the day. If you wrap in the evening make certain your bandages are smooth and even. When you get up in the morning make certain to don your support stockings or sleeve. After four or five months of use, be certain to purchase a new garment as they loose their compression after extended use. When you wash your garments be certain to wash in hot water (about 105 temperature) and be certain to wash after every use.

Filed under: Lymphedema, Venous Insufficiency | Leave a Comment »

Brent’s Corner – Lemon Thyme Chicken

Posted on June 16, 2009 by Brent Lancour

I received a waterfall of “Welcome Aboard” emails last month. Thank you very much. It is wonderful being here, and it is wonderful being able to help so many people. Unfortunately some emails got lost in transmission. If this happened to you, please accept my apologies.

A majority of the requests I received were asking for healthy recipes. I understand just how important healthy eating habits and healthy weight maintenance are when trying to take care of our legs. I have taken out one of my long-time summer favorites, Roasted Lemon Thyme Chicken. (Yes, I know it is winter in the Southern Hemisphere. Hopefully all of you may enjoy my recipes as well.)

Lemon Thyme Chicken

Lemon Thyme Chicken Compliments Chef Brent at SupportHoseStore.com

Lemon Thyme Chicken

Service for 2

Preheat your oven to 400° F

2 Bone-in Chicken Breasts with Skin-on

1 small Bunch of Fresh Thyme

1 Large Fresh Lemon

2x 1/8 teaspoon Olive Oil

Salt and Pepper

Feel free to prepare the chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate.

Slice your lemon into 8 slices, keeping the ends.

Using the tips of your fingers, gently lift the skin away from the meat, creating a pocket.

Stuff 2 lemon slices and 5-10 branches of thyme inside of the pocket.

Carefully pull the skin back into place

Place your leftover lemon ends and slices in a pan and rest your chicken on top of the

lemons with the skin side up.

Rub or brush the top of each chicken with 1/8 tsp Olive Oil

Season with salt and pepper and pop them into the oven.

Cook for 45 minutes to an hour, or until they reach 165° F.

This one is great with roasted baby red potatoes and steamed Asparagus.

Just toss halved or quartered potatoes in 1 tsp olive oil. Season them with fresh chopped thyme, salt and pepper. Toss them in the oven with your chicken. You may have to remove them a bit early, if they start to get to brown.

Stay Healthy tip of the week:

Always measure out your oils when cooking. A simple drizzle can turn into a tablespoon very quickly. Measuring will keep the fat content down in your food without sacrificing flavor!

If you would like to leave a comment or have any requests please sign into my blog. Remember, being compliant with wearing your Jobst, Mediven, Sigvaris, or Juzo compression stockings and support hose is the key to keeping your legs and body healthy. Thank you for shopping with Support Hose Store.

Filed under: Brent'S Corner | Tagged: , , , | 4 Comments »

Lymphedema – Control and Management Intro

Posted on June 12, 2009 by Vanda Lancour

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a swelling of a part of the body, generally in the arm and leg appendages. The swelling is caused by an accumulation of lymph fluid in the swollen area. Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive condition but it can be controlled by proper care and attention to basic rules that can lead to a normal and active lifestyle.
Surprisingly, lymphedema affects about 1% of the population. Lymphedema generally results in a feeling of heaviness or cosmetic enlarging of the affected arm or leg, and a slight to severe discomfort. Repeated episodes of infection (erysipelas – an acute streptococcus bacterial infection of the dermis resulting in inflammation and characteristically extending into underlying fat tissue and lymphangitis – is an inflammation of the lymphatic channels that occurs as a result of infection (most common is Streptococcus Pyrogenes) at a site distal to the channel. Severe cases are associated with thickening of the skin, hardening of the limb, leakage of lymph and massive swelling.

Lymphedema is either primary or secondary lymphedema.

primary-lymphedemaPrimary lymphedema are those cases that occur without any obvious cause. Primary lymphedema may be present at birth or may develop after age 35. Primary lymphedema is generally more present in females and generally occurs more frequently in the legs. Secondary lymphedema is generally caused by an injury, scaring secondaryLymphedemaand radiation or surgery in the area of the lymph nodes. It is estimated that there is approximately two million cases of secondary lymphedema with most caused by breast cancer therapy.

So, what is the lymphatic system?

lymph-systemThe body has two circulatory systems which move liquid through the body; one is the blood system that circulates the blood in the veins and arteries and the other is the lymphatic system that which carries lymph thru the body and back to the large veins in the neck. Lymph is a colorless transparent fluid that originates in the tissue space throughout the body. It differs from blood in that it contains less protein and no red blood cells. The lymphatic systems responsibilities are to remove excess body fluids, bacteria, viruses, proteins, and waste products from the body tissues. As the lymph is passing from one part of the body it passes thru the regional lymph nodes where it is filtered. The lymph nodes, thymus gland, tonsils and spleen are all a part of the immune system. They produce lymphocytes which are important in fighting infection and enhance the body’s immune capabilities. When the lymphatic system is disrupted, the lymph pools in the interstitial spaces and swelling occurs.

The lymph is assisted in passing thru the body by muscular action, by contractions of the vessels, by movement of the diaphragm and by changes in pressure of the diaphragm (breathing). From here the lymph is propelled toward the veins in the neck where it joins with the blood on the way to the heart.

Factors that contribute to lymphedema are:

  • Surgery and/or radiation therapy
  • Post operative infections
  • Obesity
  • Infections (insect bites, athlete’s foot, paronychia – bacterial or fungal infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toe)
  • Sedentary lifestyles
  • Dependent limb position
  • Recurrent tumor
  • An inappropriately heavy breast prosthesis
  • Trauma to remaining lymphatics

There are many medications that have been tried to control lymphedema with little success. Surgery has never solved the problem. What is necessary is for you to educate yourself on lymphedema by talking to your physician or therapist. What has proven to be effective is Manual Lymph Drainage/Complete Decongestive Therapy (MLD/CDT), coupled with compression bandaging the affected limb and then followed by the application of compression sleeves or compression stockings.

Lymphedema should not be confused with edema. Edema is caused by an accident, surgery or injury resulting in the building up of excessive fluids in the tissue and can be treated by the application of a compression garment such as an arm sleeve or stockings. Untreated edema can progress to venous/lymphatic disorder which is treated as lymphedema.

Come back for the more information on lymphedema next month.

Data and Graphics courtesy Lohmann & Rauscher.

Filed under: Lymphedema | Tagged: | 3 Comments »

Brent’s Corner

Posted on May 11, 2009 by Brent Lancour

Hello All,

I am Rod and Vanda’s son, Brent. I joined Support Hose Store 2 years ago after retiring from being an executive chef and pastry chef for 15 years. I thought it might be nice to share some of the knowledge I have gained working in the restaurant industry with our clients. Every month I will try to give a few helpful tips on making cooking quicker and easier or some great recipes I hope you all will enjoy. If you have any questions concerning any of the content in Brent’s Corner or if you have any questions about a new recipe you have seen or would like to try please feel free to sign in to our blog, leave a comment and I will be happy to help.

It is finally spring! The time of fresh baby greens, baby vegetables and berries.

Tip of the Month:
In this economy it is very important to all of us that the money we spend on groceries does not go to waste by food spoiling. To help with this it is very important not to wash your lettuces, fruits and vegetable until you are ready to use them. The additional moisture will cause all to spoil prematurely. Keep lettuce in a paper bag instead of plastic in your refrigerator’s crisper. Baby greens more often than not, when purchased at the store come a plastic tub. To keep baby greens longer, fold up a paper towel and set it on top of your greens. Be sure to change out the paper towel every few days.

We are here to Support You,
Brent

Filed under: Brent'S Corner | Tagged: | 2 Comments »

April Is Foot Health Awareness Month

Posted on April 17, 2009 by Rod Lancour

left-footYour feet are the most worked part of your body. It is stated that the average person walks about 115,000 miles – enough to walk around the world 4 times! The human foot is an amazing and complex structure. It contains 26 bones (about one quarter of all the bones in the body), 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles and tendons. Your feet support your body and help maintain balance. Walking is the best exercise for your legs and feet and provides the lowest impact on your joints and bones. Walking provides the exercise needed to maintain your weight, and reduce the risk of diabetes for non-insulin dependent individuals. Walking also helps in maintaining your mental well-being. Abraham Lincoln said “When my feet hurt, I can’t think.” While walking, you can assist your venous circulatory system by wearing your support socks or support stockings. We have many fine stockings available to assist you.    

 If you are not already wearing compression socks you might take a look at these great socks in various compressions:Don’t ignore foot pain

  • Mediven Motion Sport (cushioned sole and heel to enhance wearing comfort and Clima-Comfort fiber technology wicks the perspiration from the body) for men and women 16-20 and 20-30 mmHg compression
  • Juzo Silver Sole (diabetic friendly with pillowed sole) for those with foot problems such as foot odor or Athletes’ Foot in12-16 mmHg lo-cut, crew and knee styles
  • Jobst ActiveWear (seamless toe with dri release for superior moisture management and 360 degree cushioned foot for greater wearing comfort) for men and women in 15-20, 20-30, and 30-40 mmHg compression
  • Sigvaris 230 Cotton (25% Egyptian Cotton – 100% Cotton skin contact – Ideal for those with sensitive skin – Double-wrapped spandex yarns feel soft to the touch and provide durability) 20-30 and 30-40 mmHg for men and women.
  • Jobst SensiFoot is another great sock for the Diabetic is the (non-constricting gradient compression – flat, soft, non-irritating toe seam – moisture-wicking fibers help keep your feet dry – an antimicrobial finish inhibits fungal and bacterial growth on the sock) in mini-crew, crew and knee high styles
  • Sigvaris Cushioned Cotton Socks (80% supima cotton-naturally breathable, soft and hypo-allergenic – Draws moisture away from the skin – Soft, cushioned sole, heel and toe – flat,low-friction toe seams – diabetic friendly) 142 for women and 182 for men 15-20 mmHg compression

Below is a chart of the benefits of walking as provided by the National Podiatric Association    physical-activity2

Please remember your legs and feet must last a life-time. Your feet should be checked on a daily basis for signs of cuts, bruises, calluses, bunions, fungal infections and other signs of foot problems. You should especially check for swelling as it can be the sign of more serious circulatory issues. There is an old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. 

 

  Healthy feet are happy feet – to keep them that way: right-foot

 

  • Inspect your feet regularly
  • Wash your feet regularly, and be sure to dry them completely with a thinner cloth
  • Keep your toenails trimmed regularly straight across, but not too short
  • Always wear your support stockings every day to assist your venous system and protect your feet

    •  Your physician is your best source of information.  Please talk to your doctor about any symptoms or problems you are experiencing. 

     Be sure to leave your comments or questions. 

    Filed under: Compression Stockings, Leg Health Conditions | Leave a Comment »

    March Is DVT Awareness Month

    Posted on March 20, 2009 by Vanda Lancour

    Federal Awareness Campaign

    In September of 2008, Dr. Steven Galston, the acting Surgeon General, issued a Call to Action to urge all Americans to learn about and prevent DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and PE (pulmonary embolism) which are both treatable conditions. Deep vein thrombosis affects up to 600,000 people yearly and results in death of 100,000 Americans from pulmonary embolism. Dr. Galson, in his “call to action” states “I don’t think most people understand that this is a serious medical problem or what can be done to prevent it,”

    The people, who are at a greater risk for a DVT, even though they are healthy, include those who are:

    • Obese
    • Pregnant
    • On contraceptive or hormone therapy
    • Recovering from a recent surgery or trauma
    • Have chronic heart disease
    • Have varicose veins
    • Have a history of blood clots
    • Travel on long trips by airplane or by other means where movement is restricted for a long period of time

    So what is a Deep Vein Thrombosis and how is a DVT formed?

    A DVT is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the legs. The DVT, although serious, can be treated by your physician. DVT’s are most common in sedentary situations such as being bed ridden for long periods of time. To begin with, the human body has three types of blood veins. The blood flow leaving the heart travels in the deep vein system within the body. The blood then flows through the perforating veins (veins which connect the deep vein system to the superficial vein system). The perforating veins contain one way valves which force the blood back to the heart and keep it from flowing backwards. If these valves are damaged or the blood flow impeded, a DVT can form in the lower leg or thigh. When a blood clot is formed, it can caused permanent damage to the vein walls and the one way valves. The blood clot, left untreated, can be life threatening. A piece of the clot can break loose and cause a pulmonary embolism (obstruction of the pulmonary artery causing stoppage of blood flow to the lungs) sometimes resulting in death. Please remember, a DVT can be treated. If you are experiencing pain, redness, heat, or skin discoloration in your leg consult a physician for treatment immediately. Also, seek professional advice on preventable measures, including the amount of compression to wear in support stockings.

    Age is not a limiting factor in DVT and PE

      DVT and PE can strike men and women of all ages and walks of life with relative little warning. So keep a friend or loved one healthy tell them about DVT and how to prevent it by wearing compression stockings and compression hose and following our tips…

      Compression support stockings help prevent blood from pooling in the lower extremities and can minimize the risk of a DVT. Other things you can do to help prevent a DVT include:

    • Exercise your legs regularly when sitting or laying for a long period of time. This can be a simple as making figure 8’s with your feet, or walking for just a few minutes.
    • When sitting, stretch your legs and change position frequently
    • Breathe deeply frequently.
    • Elevate your legs whenever possible.
    • Be careful about leg rest that compress the calf or behind the knee.
    • Avoid excessive alcohol intake (it dehydrates the body).
    • Drink plenty of water.
    • Wear loose, non-binding clothes when traveling
    • Wear compression stockings or support socks.

    Filed under: Compression Stockings, Deep Vein Thrombosis, Varicose Veins | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

    Vanda is in Amarillo Uptown

    Posted on February 16, 2009 by Rod Lancour

     Rod at Support Hose StoreFrom Rod’s Corner

    Hello and welcome to AskVanda.com. We received a special treat last week from our Amarillo, Texas magazine, Amarillo Uptown. As most of you are aware, Support Hose Store is a family operated business operated by Vanda, Rod, Brent Lancour and our Support Hose Store Team. We take pride in offering you compression garments by Jobst, Mediven, Sigvaris, and Juzo, fashion and collector’s canes from Mountain Properties and Harvy, arthritis relief products, and FLA Supports. We have been very successful over the last 8 years because of you, our customers, and the trust you put in us in purchasing your needed medical supplies. And now, the folks at Amarillo Uptown have also taken note of the products and services we provide world-wide by acknowledging Vanda as one of the local successful entrepreneurial women. To read about what Amarillo Texas Uptown published about Vanda, please click here. We are very proud of her and the diligent work she performs in insuring Support Hose Store maintains the highest quality in customer service and education about compression garments.

    Thank you, Rod Lancour

     

     

     

    Filed under: Press Releases | Leave a Comment »

    Don’t Let Your Legs Go Untreated

    Posted on January 7, 2009 by Vanda Lancour

    High blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes are very common and when people recognize symptoms of these conditions, they seek a physician and undergo treatment.  Venous disorders are also extremely common.  In fact statistics show one in three American over the age of 45 are affected by venous disease.  It is just a shame that only 4% of those are being treated.

    Perhaps it is because they fail to recognize the signs of venous disease.  Let’s review a few of the venous diseases and their ramifications:

    jobst-spider-veins

    Spider veins are not only unattractive, but can signal problems to come

     

    Spider veins are small varicose dilations of the veins in the skin and do not seem to be very important.  They are a bit unsightly, but can signal a need to wear compression stockings to prevent large varicose veins.

     

     

     

     Varicose veins - unsightly veins which can cause serious health issues

    Varicose veins – Ropy looking veins which, if left untreated, are a health issue that can lead to much more  serious problems.

     

     

    venous-insufficiency3

    Chronic venous insufficiency - Swelling, discoloring of the skin

     

    When varicose veins develop, the valves in the veins become incompetent and can no longer function to return blood to the heart. This causes very high pressure and congestion in the lower leg area. This condition is called venous insufficiency. It can become chronic and has very serious consequences.

     

     

     

    society-of-interventional-r

    Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – Obstruction of a deep vein by a blood clot with the risk of the blood clot breaking loose and becoming a pulmonary embolism.

    When a deep vein has incompetent valves, the blood circulation is hampered and a clot can form near the valve. The clot is called a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Part of the DVT can break loose and pass through the heart to the lungs, block the pulmonary artery and result in a pulmonary embolism.

     

    stasis-dermatitis1

    Stasis dermatitis - inflammatory skin disease occurring on the lower extremities

    Stasis dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disease that occurs on the lower extremities in patients with chronic venous insufficiency.  Stasis dermatitis is usually the earliest cutaneous manifestation of venous insufficiency, and it may be a precursor to more problematic conditions, such as venous leg ulceration and lymphedema.

     

     

    venous-stasis-ulcer1

    Venous stasis ulcer – in most severe cases of chronic venous insufficiency

     

    A chronically insufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue develops. Fluid accumulates in the tissue and weeps on the skin and in a worse case scenario the tissue dies and an ulcer of the lower leg forms. This can take months under a physician or wound care specialist to heal.

    This is but a very brief summery of a few leg diseases that can lead to serious health problems.  We will cover them in depth in later news letters.  Please wear your compression stockings.  They do you no good in your dresser drawer. If you are aware of a friend or loved one who has leg diseases such as these, please send a copy of this or a link to our blog askvanda.com and ask them to seek council with a physician.

     

     

    Stockings are usually made to last 4-6 months. If yours are in need of replacement, please call one of our certified fitters at 1-800-515-4271 to place an order.  Our certified fitters are available 8 AM to 5 PM CST Monday- Friday. We have many new styles.

    Your physician is your best source of information.  Please talk to your doctor about any symptoms or problems you are experiencing.

    Filed under: Compression Stockings, Deep Vein Thrombosis, Varicose Veins, Venous Insufficiency, Venous Stasis Ulcers | Leave a Comment »

    Living With Arthritis Part II

    Posted on November 9, 2008 by Vanda Lancour

    Consult with your physician to determine a treatment plan for you

    How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

    Proper diagnosis, early detection, and treatment are important in successfully managing arthritis. Diagnosis is usually made following an evaluation of medical history and a physical exam.

    X-rays may be used to help confirm a diagnosis or determine how much bone damage and cartilage loss exists.

    A family doctor or primary care physician may be able to diagnose and treat common types of arthritis. You may eventually be referred to a rheumatologist, or arthritis specialist, for further treatment.

    Consult your physician to determine a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

    Can Arthritis be Treated?

      While there is no cure, arthritis is manageable and symptoms can be minimized. Early treatment results in less joint damage and pain.
  • Each individual may respond differently to various treatment options, but starting a combination of therapies as soon as possible seems to have the best effect.
  • A good treatment plan considers the severity of the condition, the joints affected, your age, activity level, and other medical conditions.
  • You and your physician should determine a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs.

    • By taking an active role in the treatment of arthritis, you can alleviate symptoms, prevent progression and improve the function of your joints.

    Arthritis Therapy Options

    Weight Control and ExerciseWeight Control and Exercise Help to Control Arthritis

    Perhaps the best thing you can do! Control your weight to reduce strain on joints. Every pound gained means added pressure on the knees and hips (and more pain!). Exercise strengthens muscles and keeps the joints flexible to increase range-of-motion. Stretching also increases flexibility. Strong muscles help support joints. Range-of-Motion exercises, muscle-strengthening exercises and low-impact activities such as walking, bicycling or swimming are ideal.

    Rest during periods of pain and support joints with braces and supports

    Rest and Joint Care

    During periods of pain or inflammation, joints are unstable and more prone to injury. Rest and limited activity will help prevent further damage to affected joints. Avoid repetitive motions when possible. Support and protect your joints with the use of over-the-counter braces. Assistive devices make work easier and prevent strain and stress on the joints.

    Protect your joints with supports and braces

    Arthritis Therapy Options

    Pain Relievers

      Drug therapy* may ease symptoms. Some drugs aim to reduce pain while others target
      symptoms and slow progression.

    • Analgesics relieve mild-to-moderate pain but do not relieve swelling or inflammation.

      Topical Analgesics help relieve pain of arthritis and other symptoms

      Topical Analgesics help relieve pain of arthritis and other symptoms

    • Topical analgesics are creams or rubs applied to the affected area to help
      relieve pain and other arthritis symptoms.

        There are three main types of topical analgesics:

      • Counter-Irritants – These topicals contain ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus oil, or camphor that mask the pain by producing a warm or cool sensation to the skin. Some of these products may be combined with the other two types:
        salicylates or capsaicin.
      • Salicylates – Topical salicylates reduce inflammation and pain by blocking the release of a certain fatty acid that causes swelling. Since they work in the same way as aspirin, people who are sensitive to aspirin should consult a physician before use.
      • Capsaicin – Capsaicin is a natural substance found in hot chili peppers. In topical creams it gives warmth to the skin and surrounding area However, the real benefit is that Capsaicin works past surface pain to the molecular level. Capsaicin relieves pain by blocking the transmission of a pain-relaying substance called Substance P to the brain. Best results typically occur with 2 to 4 weeks of continuous use. Capsaicin is the most recommended topical for arthritis sufferers.
    • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspirin and ibuprofen, help reduce swelling, inflammation and moderate to severe pain.
    • Prescription medications may be incorporated into a treatment plan to treat a wide variety of symptoms.
    • Local steroid injections such as injectable glucocorticoids are injected directly into the affected joint for immediate and targeted pain relief.

    Note:Medication should be taken as directed by a physician.

    Thermal TherapyHeat or use of hot packs relax muscle around stiff muscles and helps relieve arthritis pain.

    Heat, or the use of hotpacks, relaxes muscles around stiff joints and helps relieve deep, aching pain. A warm bath may help loosen joints and ease pain and stiffness.

    Arthritis Therapy Options

    lwa-braces-and-therapeutic-heatCertain supports and splints provide therapeutic heat directly to the tender, aching joint. Cold packs applied for no longer than 20 minutes will help reduce any inflammation and swelling.

    Reduce Stress

    Stress leads to fatigue, muscle tension and increased pain
    that can intensify arthritis symptoms. Relaxation techniques
    such as meditation or activities like yoga may help
    relax muscles and release tension and stress.

    Alternative Therapies

    Vitamin C and other antioxidants may possibly help prevent
    progression of osteoarthritis. A massage can decrease pain
    and increase circulation. Other options may include yoga or
    acupuncture.

    Surgery

    Surgery may be considered when other treatment options are not successful.

    Remember, a treatment plan may need to change over time with any changes in the condition (such as progression or an improvement in the condition).


    Therall™ premium arthritis products help relieve arthritis symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, while maintaining an active lifestyle.

    Filed under: Arthritis | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

    A Support Hose Story

    Posted on October 13, 2008 by Vanda Lancour

    One of our very good customers sent us a letter the other day that we would like to share with you.  She expressed what we have been telling our clients for a very long time.  What a difference support hose can make in a person’s life!  ….. Vanda

    Untreated Stasis Dermatitis can lead to venous ulcerations

    Untreated Stasis Dermatitis can lead to venous ulcerations (from Support Hose Store)

    If I had just one piece of advice to give those who have extreme swelling in the lower limbs, it would be this – wear compression stockings and keep yourself and your loved ones out of wound care!

    We always thought my husband had big legs.  Little did we know that his legs were simply swollen from lack of proper circulation.  It took 4 different doctors until we finally found one who took one look at his legs and diagnosed Venous Stasis Dermatitis as the cause for his dryness and swelling.  We didn’t know what this meant.  That doctor suggested my husband wear compression socks to rid his legs of the excess fluids, which, she said, would rid him of his Stasis Dermatitis.  So, to the Internet I went.

    What I learned was this – whatever the cause, and there are many – if we did not get the swelling down quickly, we were looking at months of wound debridement and possible infections that would not be easily treated.  We searched and searched for the right compression socks, pharmacies, local health care dealers.  The first socks we bought were a diabetic sock, which is a great sock, but we soon found these did not have the proper compression to help my husband.  Within a few weeks, we noticed a wound that would not heal, just a few inches above his ankle on his left leg.  We were referred to the wound care center.

    What followed were several months of compression wrapping and debridement (scraping) of his wound.  Nightly wound dressing and morning re-dressing is what we had in store for us for the next few months.

    When we finally found the correct compression hose, 30-40mmHg, and found someone who would properly explain to us how to put them on, we were absolutely shocked to find that after wearing them daily for three weeks, my husband’s legs were not only NOT big, but were almost svelte.

    I am a firm believer in these garments!  Almost a year later he has graduated into a lower compression garment, 20-30mmHg, and does not go one day without wearing them.  His overall health has gotten so much better as well.

    Wear your stockings!  Don’t just think a water pill will be the only answer!  Compression is necessary because of the way we were all made.  Our valves in our veins are one-way only, and when they do not work properly, we must force them.

    Do yourselves a favor – size your stockings correctly, wear the right compression, and do not go a day without them.  You will be surprised at how quickly and effectively compression socks work!

    We are so very thankful to the good people at Support Hose Store!  Without them, I shudder to think what would have happened to my husband’s legs!  Thank you Rod and Vanda.

    Filed under: Compression Stockings, Venous Insufficiency, Venous Stasis Ulcers | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

    Next Page »