Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution: June 2016

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Ajwa Dates - The King Of Dry Fruits!

As you already know, there are many fruits available these days. The sheer variety of fruits – fresh or dry – simply boggles the mind and creates confusion. In today’s plethora of choices, which fruit provides the “complete package”? If one is short of time, he or she would need advice on which fruit to prefer over the others. Today, with the benefit of ancient wisdom and modern science, we can say with confidence that the humble dates provide the best bang-for-buck.

The benefits of eating dates regularly are many: the fruit provides relief from a range of problems. Dates can cure constipation, intestinal disorders, heart problems, sexual dysfunction – the list goes on.

Ajwa – the King of dates

Ajwa dates are the best dates in its raw form. It is produced in Saudi Arabia. It looks and tastes delicious. It is rich in natural fibers. It also surpasses other fruits in the sheer variety of nutrients. Ajwa contains calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper and magnesium. The dates contain sugar, small quantities of fat, proteins, and minerals. Just one date can help satisfy the minimum requirement of a balanced and healthy diet.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Ajwa dates

According to the Sahih al-Bukhari, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once declared that “Whoever has seven Ajwa dates every morning, will not be harmed on that day by poison or magic”. Millions of devout Muslims around the world have followed this advice for centuries. Now, with the advancements in nutritional science, we are slowly realizing how true this advice has proven to be.

Benefits of Ajwa dates – backed by science

1. Brings relief from constipation: People who suffer from constipation should eat Ajwa dates as it is a laxative. It has soluble fiber which promotes and regulates bowel movements. To enhance the laxative effect of the dates, soak them in water over night. In the morning, eat the soaked dates.

2. Strengthens bones and muscles: The minerals found in them make it an important food for strengthening bones and fight off osteoporosis. Ajwa dates are rich in four minerals - selenium, manganese, copper, and magnesium – all of which are essential for bone development.

3. Gives relief from anaemia: Ajwa dates are rich in iron, which make them very important for people suffering from anaemia. The high levels of iron helps to balance the lack of iron in anaemic patients. It increases energy and gives strength while decreasing fatigue and sluggishness.

4. Reduces allergy: The organic sulphur present in it helps to reduce allergies caused by seasonal changes. Researchers found that organic sulphur has a positive impact on people suffering from SAR (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis).

5. Helps maintain your weight: Ajwa dates help you to maintain a balanced weight. One kilogram of dates contains around 3000 calories. While dates alone are not sufficient, it should form an important part of your daily diet.

6. Boosts energy: The dates have high concentration of glucose, fructose and sucrose. They are a good snack if you want an immediate burst of energy.

7. Improves nerve function: The vitamins present in dates make it ideal for the nervous system. It contains potassium which promotes the responsiveness of the nervous system. It also increases the alertness of the brain.

8. Promotes heart health: Ajwa dates keep your heart healthy. They are a good source of potassium, which is known to reduce the risk of stroke and heart diseases. It also helps to reduce the concentration of LDL cholesterol in the blood.

Science and faith agree on Ajwa dates

While these two elements are commonly seen as opposed to each other, their verdict on Ajwa dates is unanimous. Ajwa dates will help you stay healthy while keeping you safe from diseases and infections. For maximum effect, you should follow the advice of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and take 7 Ajwa dates daily.

The doctors and health experts at Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution also fully support the use of Ajwa dates in maintaining your overall health.

We at Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution are confident of our unique treatment plan. We have received thousands of enthusiastic reviews and testimonials from our patients that Classical Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic-Unani Formulations and Internationally Acclaimed Advanced Physiotherapy work together to rid one of pain in an effective and affordable manner. To avail of our services or to give your valuable feedback, call us at 1800 419 6607 (Toll free) or message us on WhatsApp at +91 98304 26607.

By Dr. Shabtab Khalid

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Monday, June 27, 2016

Gain Victory Over Arthritis With Positive Mood

Mr. Malhotra woke up one Sunday morning and wished he were dead. The pain in his right knee usually wakes him up at about 6 am every morning, and stays with him till he reluctantly falls asleep at night. Mr. Malhotra was 72 years old and wished for nothing but a pain-free life. He could no longer walk or read or even take the afternoon nap – all because of the pain. Feeling weak, angry and helpless, Mr. Malhotra closed his eyes, hoping to never wake up again.

Stress, anxiety, and depression can all accompany Arthritis, and staying positive may be a challenge. But understanding the connection between your physical symptoms and your emotions can help.

Arthritis and mood

In a study done in 2015, researchers found that people with Arthritis have a higher risk of suffering from depression and anxiety. The risk of depression rose along with the number of joints affected. Arthritis affects your mood by limiting your ability to do things you once took for granted. You may feel frustrated that you can no longer do simple tasks like taking care of your garden or even opening a jar.

How positive mood helps in Arthritis

Even though you are in pain, you need to think in a positive manner if you want to fight Arthritis effectively.

A recent study found that positive mood along with positive behaviour can reduce the pain discomfort arising from Arthritis by 60%.
People who stay active and maintain a positive mood feel less pain sensation compared to those who don't engage themselves in activities and feel overwhelmed by the sensation of pain and stiffness throughout the day.
A positive mood helps to dampen the subjective experience of pain as positivity keeps the mind and attention occupied, thus reducing the focus on pain. .
You may feel that taking necessary list of medicines is a chore. Positive mood will change your attitude, and understanding the importance of medicines.
Having a balanced mood is essential for prompt and proper recovery.
A positive outlook helps in interpersonal relationships. Thus, you can get better care by cooperating with your family members.

Maintaining emotional health in Arthritis

1. Relax: While it is easier said than done, you should try to calm down and relax a bit. Yes, you are fighting Arthritis. But you shouldn’t allow this fight to take over your life. Instead of this, you can focus on an activity you like, like watching football on TV or chatting with your grandchildren.

2. Take deep breaths: Practising simple breathing techniques will help you control the sensation of pain. Breathe in and out deeply and slowly, letting your muscles relax. Think peaceful, calm thoughts.

3. Sleep well: This will give your body enough time to make the necessary repairs. Make sure you sleep in a position which puts as little pressure as possible on the affected joint. Sleeping at least 8 hours at night will greatly improve your mood.

4. Do light exercise: This will keep your weight under control while strengthening the muscles around the affected joints. This will minimize the stress on your joints and help reduce the feeling of pain. Exercise has been proven to improve mood while calming the mind. Doing light aerobic exercise thrice a week should be adequate.

5. Talk to your family: Tell them how you feel, whether you are in pain or if you are feeling grumpy. Just talking about your mood will help improve and stabilize it.

6. Use a hot pack: This will increase the blood circulation in the affected area which will help supply essential nutrients and oxygen to the bones. A hot pack will also help the muscles and ligaments relax. It may decrease the pain temporarily and relieve mental stress.

Get expert advice

If you can control your mood and your thoughts, then you can gain control over your pain. Nonetheless, if you have Arthritis and are in a lot of pain, you need careful and proper medical attention. You should not wait till the last hour (when the pain becomes unbearable) to seek treatment. Arthritis is a challenging problem for you and your doctor. The sooner you consult a specialized pain clinic, the better will be the outcome.

By Dr. Shabtab Khalid

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Thursday, June 23, 2016

8 Simple Tips To Tackle Back Pain

Back pain is incredibly common. Nearly everyone has experienced back pain at some point in time. However, instead of popping a pill, you can take some simple measures to decrease the intensity of the pain. While it is important to see a doctor if you have chronic pain, you can make his work much easier by using the tips given below.

How chronic back hurts you

It makes you dependent on others to complete even simple daily activities.
It interferes with your ability to work.
Chronic pain can lead to depression and anxiety.
Back pain can lower the overall quality of your life

Tips for back pain

1. Lose extra weight: The excess fat puts a lot of strain on the bones and muscles in the upper body. The strain on the back increases enormously. Thus, you should look to losing at least 5 kilograms. This will help decrease back pain.

2. Get exercise: While this may seem strange, most doctors suggest light exercise even to those with chronic back pain. This will help to strengthen the back muscles and increase blood circulation.

3. Make your workplace ergonomics: Get a chair which is high enough to support your entire back. Make sure it is soft enough to provide support and comfort. Remember to avoid slumping in front of the desk. Take a 10 minute break for every hour you work. Use the break to do simple stretching exercises.

4. Sleep well: The best position to sleep is on your side with the knees bent. You can keep the upper knee on another pillow to decrease stress on the hip muscles. Avoid sleeping on your stomach as it puts enormous stress on the neck and back muscles.

5. Do meditation: This will allow you to focus your attention away from the pain. Several studies have shown that people who meditate for just 20 minutes a day feel less pain and are able to work better in spite of having back pain.

6. Don’t wear brace for long: While a brace can provide support to the back muscles, prolonged wearing can weaken the muscles. So don’t wear a brace for more than 30 minutes a day.

7. Don’t’ smoke: The nicotine present in tobacco tends to intensify the pain sensation while interfering with the medication you take. Smoking is incredibly harmful for your lungs and should be avoided at all cost.

8. Consult the specialists: You can use the above tips to control the pain, but don’t forget that you need to consult a doctor. For maximum benefit, visit a specialized clinic which deals with chronic pain problems.

By Dr. Shabtab Khalid

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Chronic Pain - 6 Vital Facts You Didn't Know

Constant pain can eat into your concentration. People with chronic pain find it almost impossible to complete even simple task. Millions of people suffer from chronic pain every year. In spite of the scale of the problem, many people are not aware of the basic information regarding chronic pain.

What is chronic pain?

If you suffer from pain for months or years, then you probably have chronic pain. The signals of pain remain active in the nervous system till the pain lasts. Chronic pain may originate with an injury or infection, or from chronic diseases. Some people suffer chronic pain in the absence of any past injury or damage to the body.

Common symptoms

Mild or severe pain
Pain which may be described as burning or “shooting”
Fatigue
Sleeplessness
Feeling easily irritable or anxious
Prolonged feeling of discomfort, soreness, stiffness and tightness.
Partial or complete disability

What you should know about chronic pain

1. The pain is real: If you have chronic pain, you must take the pain seriously. It is not the case of you being sensitive or “lazy”. There is something wrong in the fundamental bodily processes, which in turn is causing the pain. While a broken bone can be seen through X-ray, the source of chronic pain may be mysterious to you and your doctor.

2. Disuse syndrome: Chronic pain often leads to long term lack of activity in the affected body part. Complete lack of use can cause the part to gradually become disabled. The stronger the pain, the greater the likelihood of disability.

3. Sleeping trouble: In some people, the pain interferes with the body’s circadian rhythm and can make sleeping a daunting task.

4. Depression: For people suffering from chronic pain, depressive mood swings can become quite common. The feeling of constant pain can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. This creates the stage for psychological problems like depression.

5. Social isolation: Many people with chronic pain tend to withdraw from the society around them. They may feel angry and anxious, or may no longer have the energy to take part is social activities. Depression too can make people feel lonely.

6. Variable pain: Two people may have the same pain and yet experience it differently. Some can “play through the pain” while others become completely disabled.

Coping with chronic pain?

1. Learn to meditate: Deep breathing meditation techniques can help your body as a whole to calm down. This may decrease the sensation of pain.

2. Control stress: It is known to intensify chronic pain. Negative feelings like depression, anger and anxiety can increase the body’s sensitivity to pain. If you can control stress, you can gradually manage the pain as well.

3. Exercise regularly: Exercise helps to release endorphins in the brain. Endorphins help to improve your mood while blocking out the sensation of pain. Exercise helps to strengthen the bones and the muscles, which in turn reduces the risk of injury.

4. Avoid alcohol: Drinking in excess aggravates the impact of chronic pain on your sleep pattern.

5. Join a support group: A support group will give you access to the experience of other people facing the same problem. This will help to put your own troubles in proper perspective. You are less likely to feel estranged by your pain.

6. Stop smoking: It has been shown to increase chronic pain. The smoke creates problem with circulation and increases the risk of heart disease and even cancer.

7. Get massage: It can help to reduce stress and relieve tension in the muscles. It has been used by many people to get temporary relief from chronic pain.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Friday, June 17, 2016

Rheumatoid Arthritis - 8 Early Warning Signs

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a disease whose early symptoms are minor and transient. Such symptoms are usually seen on both sides of the body. It may take weeks or even months for the disease to become severe enough to cause damage.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of autoimmune arthritis. It is triggered by a faulty immune system. When the immune system begins to attack and destroy the tissue in the joints, this condition is called RA. It usually affects the wrist and small joints of the hand, including the knuckles and the joints of the fingers. The problem can spread to other organs like the eyes, heart and lungs.

Knowing the early signs can help you detect the problem and get prompt treatment at the preliminary stages. This will save you and your doctor a lot of worry.

Early signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Fatigue: You may feel unusually tired without having done anything physically intensive. This sign is seen weeks before all the other symptoms. This persistent feeling may be mild at first.

2. Morning stiffness: Getting up from bed may gradually become more difficult as the disease progresses. This stiffness may last for just a few minutes at first. Later on, the stiffness can be felt for several hours.

3. Joint stiffness: Stiffness in small joint of the hands is the most common sign of RA. This stiffness can arise at any time of the day. The stiffness can spread to other joints as the disease progresses.

4. Joint pain: Stiffness in the joints is followed by pain. Whether at rest or in motion, the pain continues unabated. Usually, both sides of the body are affected. Some people feel pain in the hands, ankles, shoulders and knees. Common sites of pain are fingers and the wrists.

5. Minor joint swelling: The inflammation can cause some of the small joints to swell. The swollen joint may feel warm. Such flare-ups can last a few days or a few weeks.

6. Fever: Many people also suffer from a low-grade fever along with the joint swelling. If the temperature never goes above 100°F (38°C), then it is a sign that you may have RA.

7. Numbness and tingling: Tendons are affected by the inflammation and become stiff, which puts pressure on the nerves, causing numbness and tingling. The gradual damage to the cartilage makes cracking or squeaking sounds in the joints.

8. Decreased range of motion: The inflammation causes the tendons to become deformed or unstable. This means you will be unable to move around as you used to.

How to manage Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Take a break: When you feel tired, stop what you are doing and take a short break. This will prevent injuries and allow you to recover quickly. Sit in a quiet corner and count your breaths. This will take your attention away from the fatigue.

2. Keep up your daily activities: It is better to maintain your daily schedule. This will add a degree of normalcy in your life and provide you with a routine to follow.

3. Use heat packs: In order to control the pain, you can apply a heat pack on the affected region. This will increase blood circulation temporarily and relieve the tension in the muscles.

4. Join a support group: This will give you access to the experience of other fellow sufferers. Joining a group will also combat the feeling of loneliness and social isolation.

5. Do light exercise: Try to do light aerobic exercise at least thrice a week. This will keep your joints and muscles active while reducing the risk of becoming obese.

6. Eat a balanced diet: Take plenty of brightly-coloured fruits, leafy green vegetables and nuts in your daily diet.

7. Avoid alcohol and tobacco: These will only increase the intensity of the inflammation and worsen the symptoms of RA.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Fight Chronic Pain Naturally - 8 Simple Tips

Whether it is mild, episodic or continuous, chronic pain has the capacity to disrupt your life. Being in constant pain can impair your focus and make even simple tasks impossible to complete. While some people don’t think twice before popping a pill, there are several ways to deal with the problem of chronic pain without medication.

What is chronic pain?

If the pain persists for more than 12 weeks, it is called chronic pain. Chronic pain may continue for months or years. The signals of pain remain active in the nervous system. Chronic pain may originate with an injury or infection, or from chronic diseases like Osteoarthritis. Some people also suffer chronic pain in the absence of any past injury or damage to the body.

Common symptoms

Mild or severe pain
Pain which may be described as burning, aching or “shooting”
Prolonged feeling of discomfort. Soreness, stiffness and tightness.
Fatigue
Sleeplessness
Feeling easily irritable or anxious
Partial or complete disability

Managing chronic pain

1. Meditate regularly: Deep breathing meditation techniques can help your body as a whole to calm down. This may even decrease the sensation of pain and the tightness of the muscles in the affected area.

2. Reduce stress: Stress is known to intensify chronic pain. Negative feelings like depression, anger and anxiety can increase the body’s sensitivity to pain. You have to control stress if you want to manage chronic pain.

3. Exercise regularly: Exercise helps to release endorphins in the brain. Endorphins help to create a sense of well-being while blocking out the sensation of pain. Exercise helps to strengthen the bones and the muscles, which in turn reduces the risk of injury.

4. Avoid alcohol: Drinking alcohol aggravates the impact of chronic pain on your sleep pattern. Refusing to drink can have a positive effect on your life.

5. Join a support group: A support group will give you access to the experience of other people facing the same problem. This will help to put your own troubles in proper perspective.

6. Stop smoking: It has been shown to increase chronic pain. The smoke creates problem with blood circulation and increases the risk of heart disease. It may even lead to cancer.

7. Keep a pain diary: You can keep track of how much pain you are experiencing. You can record the pain level on a 1 to 10 scale. The diary will help you find out any pattern in the feeling of pain. Your doctor will gain much information about your condition through the diary.

8. Get massage: Massage can help to reduce stress and relieve tension in the muscles. It is usually used to get temporary relief from chronic pain.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Monday, June 13, 2016

Better Sitting For Greater Health

After 7 hours in his chair, Mr. Sharma couldn’t take it anymore. His back felt as it was on fire. He slumped in front of the computer and felt close to tears. The heat pack he had applied for the chronic back pain is no longer working. The pain is slowly getting worse. Should he take medical leave? What about all the pending work? Will he get fired? Mr. Sharma felt helpless, dazed and confused.

Like Mr. Sharma, millions of people around the world feel chained to their office chair. Such people may suffer from back pain or even Sciatica.

Impact of long duration sitting

People who sit for hours at a stretch are vulnerable to the following kinds of problems:

Increased blood pressure
High blood sugar
Excess body fat (especially around the waist)
Abnormal hormone levels
Increased risk of heart disease and cancer

Instead of suffering in silence, you can use these tips to avoid back pain and boost your health.

Sitting solutions: better health

Nowadays, many innovative chairs and chair-substitutes are available in India in various supermarkets, malls, hyper-market. The ease of availability makes it possible to experiment with various types of sitting arrangements.

1. Stand-up desk: This type of desk will allow you to work while standing. You will burn more calories and your spine will be in a neutral position. While it may feel weird at first, you will get used to it within a few days. You may also feel more productive while standing.

2. Exercise ball: With the absence of a back rest, your body makes minute adjustments to keep your spine and back straight. You will also make use of the abdominal muscles. This will help you avoid back pain while controlling belly fat. You will no longer be tempted to slump in front of your computer while working.

3. Walking desk: You can add a treadmill to a standing desk to get a proper work out while working. Research shows that being engaged in physical activity can give rise to new and different ideas. This desk is excellent for those who don’t get much time for a proper work out.

4. Kneeling chair: Sitting in this chair would allow your shins to take up some of the body weight. This will provide some comfort to the spine and the back muscles while distributing body weight more evenly.

5. Recliner: Many people who have back pain feel better while sitting in a reclined position. You can use a recliner to provide rest to your upper body while working. Just get a simple laptop stand or lap desk and say good bye to back pain!

While these innovative solutions may work for many people, you should not ignore any pain if it lasts longer than a week. Chronic pain is a signal that all is not well in your body. You should pay heed to it and visit a specialized pain clinic without delay.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Saturday, June 11, 2016

What Not To Do In Chronic Pain

All it takes to ruin your day is a little bit of chronic pain.

Whether you are at work or in the kitchen or just relaxing in the park – chronic pain can become a persistent and unwelcome companion. It can distract your focus on your work and increase stress.

If you have been in pain for more than one week, then you are probably suffering from chronic pain. This kind of pain is not the result of any external injury or trauma, but the result of internal disturbance in the multitude of bodily processes. This kind of pain can affect any part of your body and can last for months if left untreated.

Common types of chronic pain

Headache
Lower back pain
Pain from arthritis
Pain caused by nerve damage
Psychogenic pain (pain arising from psychological factors like stress)

Why chronic pain occurs

Disease of the muscles
Joint dysfunction
Fatigue
Fibromyalgia
Problem in the stomach

Who are at risk?

The following factors increase the risk of chronic pain:

Injury
Obesity
Recent surgery
Stagnant lifestyle
Inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals
Not enough protein in the diet

What NOT to do

1. Excessive activity: If you are in constant pain, don’t force yourself to take part in activities like exercise. This can only lead to more pain and even injury. Instead, take steps to control the pain.

2. Intense self-criticism: It’s not your fault that you are in pain. The pain is simply a signal that all is not well in your body, or the affected region. You should stop blaming yourself and try to take adequate measures to bring the pain under control.

3. Trying out unrecognized treatments: There are many unconventional treatment systems out there, like Reiki, Phytotherapy, Colour therapy and Magnet therapy. Simply because the treatment worked for your friend does not mean that it will work for you. Instead of falling in the trap of self-treatment, you should visit a clinic which specializes in dealing with chronic pain and seek expert advice.

4. Delaying treatment: Many people mistakenly believe that they can “play through the pain”. This somehow makes them feel better about themselves. Such an attitude is highly dangerous. The pain is a signal that your body needs immediate medical attention. You should not ignore it.

5. Make time for yourself: You may have to do the dishes. Or there is a project pending at work. Or you friends want to go to a party. However, it would be most unwise to allow your responsibilities gain control over you. If you are not feeling well, then you should focus on your body and ignore what others will think about you.

6. Don't compare the present with the past: Try to avoid day-dreaming about the time when you were not sick. Such a comparison will only increase stress and cause enormous unhappiness. It can even worsen the sensation of pain. Instead of wasting time thinking about “the good ol’ days”, try to get treatment as soon as possible from a specialized pain clinic.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Friday, June 10, 2016

9 Ways To Stop Pain Without Medication

It is a misconception that pain can only be dealt with medicine. Thanks to advances in modern science, we now have various ways of dealing with pain instead of popping a pill. While these methods are slow to act, they are without any harmful side effect. By relying on the body to deal with pain, you will end up stronger than before.

Why controlling pain is necessary

Being in constant pain can distract your attention from your work.
Pain can increase the level of stress and anxiety.
Pain can interfere with your leisurely time by preventing you from pursuing your hobbies.
In some people, chronic pain can lead to full-blown depression.

How to control pain

1. Drink enough water: It is common knowledge that you should drink at least 8 glasses of water every day. Staying well-hydrated will keep your muscles from stiffening up. It will maintain the flexibility of the spinal discs which are between the vertebrae.

2. Get enough sleep: Your body undertakes all kinds of restorative activities while you sleep. Sleeping at least 8 hours at night will give your body enough time to heal itself. It will also give the scope to any pain medication you are taking to work properly. Sleeping is essential for getting relief from pain.

3. Get some sunlight: 15 minutes of sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D. In some people, the production of vitamin D can reduce the sensation of pain. Not having enough vitamin D can actually be one of the causes of chronic pain.

4. Try guided imagery: If you are in pain, try to imagine a place you always wanted to visit, or your favourite spot in the city. Try to imagine the sounds, the feeling of walking and the colours. Imagine talking to the people present. This will help take your attention away from the pain.

5. Use warm water: By soaking your body in warm water, you can control pain in the muscles. Many kinds of arthritis also respond well to a warm water treatment. This helps to increase circulation and relieves tension in the muscles. You can also apply a heat pack to the affected region.

6. Stretch the muscles: Doing simple stretching exercises can help loosen up the muscles, increase blood circulation to the bones and relieve tension in the soft tissue. You can apply a heat pack for 15 minutes before beginning to stretch in order to limber up the muscles and reduce tension.

7. Practice meditation: Studies have shown that people who practise meditation regularly report lesser pain than those who don’t. Meditation allows you to refocus your mind and stop you from becoming overwhelmed with the sensation of pain.

8. Release your endorphins: They are natural hormones which reduce the perception of pain by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain. Any activity which increases your heart rate will induce the release of endorphins. To pick an activity, make sure you are strong enough to undertake it. Do simple aerobic exercises like walking or jogging to help reduce the sensation of pain.

9. Get massage: Numerous studies have shown that massage helps the major muscle groups to relax and help decrease the feeling of pain. Massage also helps in the release of endorphins. Make sure you talk to your doctor before getting massage. A qualified masseur will usually use gentle massage to help relieve tension in the muscles.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Thursday, June 9, 2016

What Are The Reasons Behind Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition which leads to pain in the left or the right leg. When one of the major nerves are put under pressure by the surrounding bones or muscles, Sciatica occurs. Some medical practitioners use the term Radiculopathy to refer to the pain, numbness, tingling sensation and the feeling of weakness associated with Sciatica.

Signs of Sciatica

Constant pain on one side of the leg.
Pain originating in the lower back or the buttock
Pain feels better when you are lying down
Sharp, “pins-and-needles” type of pain
Weakness or numbness when moving the leg

What causes Sciatica?

1. Herniated disc: This occurs when the gel-like substance in the disc leaks out and puts pressure on a surrounding nerve root. This compression of the nerve also leads to nerve inflammation, pain and numbness along with tingling sensation.

2. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Older adults usually face this type of nerve compression. The affected person feels pain travelling down either leg. The pain tends to shift and change in intensity with respect to body movement.

3. Spondylolisthesis: This disorder usually affects the lumbar (lower) region of the spine. When one vertebra slips over another vertebra, the patient suffers from Spondylolisthesis. It can be caused by spinal degeneration. Trying to lift a heavy object can also lead to this condition.

4. Injury: An injury to the spine or the region around it can also lead to pressure on the nerve roots. Traumatic events like a car crash or sports injury can cause Sciatica.

5. Piriformis Syndrome: This syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. This muscle is connected to the thigh bone and helps in rotation of the hip. The syndrome occurs when muscle spasm causes compression on the sciatic nerve.

6. Spinal tumour: Tumours or abnormal growth on the spine can cause sciatic pain. Usually, spinal tumours are rare. However, even a minor tumour can cause enormous nerve pain.

Preventing Sciatica

Maintain correct posture whenever you stand, walk and sit.
Do exercise that helps maintain aerobic fitness in the abdominal and spinal muscles.
Ensure that your back is well supported when seated.
Don’t smoke.
Control your body weight.

While Sciatica is a serious problem, needlessly worrying about it will not solve it. This is a completely treatable problem. Using massage, physiotherapy and diet control, many people have found relief from Sciatica. To know more about Sciatica and how to treat it, visit the nearest specialized clinic and get expert advice.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Bone Health And Smoking -The Correlation

The health problems associated with smoking are well-known. Smoking cigarettes causes lung cancer, chronic lung disease and heart trouble. Smoking also increases oxidative stress on the entire body. Not a single part of the body is left untouched by the ill effects of smoking.

Now, researchers have found a hidden connection between smoking and poor bone health: people who smoke regularly are at risk of getting Osteoporosis.

What is weakening of bones?

Osteoporosis is the condition which leads to weakening of the bones, thus making them prone to fracture at even the slightest accident. Fractures resulting from Osteoporosis are as painful as they are debilitating. Many Osteoporosis patients are forced to become dependent on the wheelchair for the rest of their lives.

Osteoporosis risk factors

Regular smoking
Family history of bone-related complications
Being post-menopausal
Prolonged use of medication for asthma or lupus
Regular alcohol consumption

Smoking and bone health

Numerous studies have found that:

The more cigarettes you smoke, the greater is the risk of fracture in old age. Smoking causes the release of free radicals in the body, which increases cellular damage.
The fracture healing time for smokers is longer than that of non-smokers. Due to the decreased bone mass, the fracture takes more time than is usually in order to heal.
Bone loss accelerates as smokers reach old age. As people age, some bone loss is inevitable. Regular smoking increases the rate of bone loss.
Chronic exposure to passive smoking in early childhood increases the likelihood of having poor bone mass.

What should you do?

If you have been smoking for several years, then your bones are already in poor condition. Research shows that bone density tends to improve in people who give up smoking, although this can take several years.

Simple tips to quit smoking

1. Choose when to quit: Pick a day when you are going to give up smoking for the rest of your life. Don’t choose a day that is too near or too far.

2. Ask your family members for help: There is no doubt that they will support you and your decision. Warn them that you may be grumpy sometimes due to the lack of cigarettes.

3. Prepare yourself for the big day: Search and remove any item in the house that is connected to smoking. Think about any activity that you do which increases the craving for cigarettes and try to avoid it.

4. Get nicotine patches: Nicotine patches and gums can help smokers resist the urge to smoke. Talk to your doctor about which product is best suited for you.

5. Join a support group: Since there are lots of people who also want to quit smoking, you will find adequate company in your journey away from smoking.

Maintaining bone health

1. Take calcium: Include plenty of calcium in the diet. For adults between 19 and 50, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, almonds, sardines and soy products.

2. Get vitamin D: Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. For adults aged 19 to 70, the RDA of vitamin D is 600 international units (IUs) a day. Good sources of vitamin D include oily fish, such as tuna, egg yolks, and fortified orange juice.

3. Include physical activity: Weight-bearing exercises, such as jogging, tennis and climbing stairs, can help you build strong bones and slow down bone loss.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org

Monday, June 6, 2016

Building Bone Strength – Simple Daily Tips

Most people realize the importance of strong bones when they become old. By that time, it is usually too late to do anything. When various problems like Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis set in, the need to take care of bones becomes suddenly a paramount importance. Instead of waiting for old age, you can start from today and gradually build up bone strength.

Importance of strong bones

Lower risk of Osteoarthritis: Strong bones reduce the risk of Osteoarthritis. If you take care of your bones, your cartilage will be strong enough to withstand the daily wear and tear. This will protect you from Osteoarthritis.
Less risk of Osteoporosis: The risk of Osteoporosis also decreases if you have strong bones. While some bone loss is inevitable with age (especially for women), you can help control the decrease in bone mass.
Ease in performing daily tasks: Your bones protect your internal organs and provide support for your muscles. Having strong bones help you to perform daily tasks with ease.

What causes bone loss?

Ageing: Due to ageing, your body may start to absorb the calcium in your bones. This makes your bones weaker. For women, bone loss accelerates after menopause.
Bad dietary habit: It can also cause bone loss. If your diet does not provide you with enough calcium and vitamin D, then your bones will become weaker over time.
Medical disorders: Some chronic medical disorders like Rheumatoid Arthritis can aggravate bone loss.

Tips for stronger bones

1. Know your family history: This will help you calculate the risk of getting bone-related problems. If your parents or your siblings have problems with their bones, then there is a high chance that you too will have to face similar problems in the near future.

2. Get adequate vitamin D: This vitamin is essential in the proper absorption of calcium in the bones. You should eat foods like eggs, cheese and breakfast cereals to get vitamin D.

3. Get enough potassium: This mineral indirectly helps to maintain bone health by removing cell waste and neutralizing acids which target calcium deposits and bone cells. Foods like bananas and potatoes are rich in potassium.

4. Take adequate vitamin K: This vitamin is needed to make protein for the bone cells. While it is not as important as the nutrients mentioned above, you should remember to eat vitamin K-rich food like turnips and spinach.

5. Exercise regularly: Bone becomes strong if it is exposed to controlled amount of stress regularly. Exercising helps to increase bone mass by requiring the bones to produce more bone cells. In order to strengthen your bones, you need to exercise at least 4 times a week. To keep your exercise routine interesting, add different types of exercises like aerobic exercise, weight-bearing exercise and resistance training.

6. Reduce caffeine consumption: While drinking tea or coffee has some health benefits, both have a negative impact on your bones. Too much caffeine interferes with the body’s ability to absorb calcium in bone maintenance and bone formation.

7. Refrain from alcohol: Like caffeine, alcohol slows down calcium absorption. Researchers have found out that regular drinkers tend to suffer from greater bone loss compared to non-drinkers. Thus, you should remove alcohol from your diet.

8. Stop smoking: Multiple studies have shown that smoking has a grossly negative impact on bone health and bone strength. Like alcohol, it slows down calcium absorption and indirectly contributes to Osteoporosis. If you care about your bones, you should stop smoking.

9. Boost calcium consumption: This mineral is essential for proper development of teeth and bones. Since your body cannot produce calcium, you need to eat calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese and yogurt daily.

Courtesy - Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

www.zilaxo.org