Spinal Cord Injuries

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
Damage to the nerves in the spinal cord or the spinal cord itself due to sudden trauma.

Statistics:
According to the Miami Project, 78% of new diagnosed spinal cord injuries are males and 22% are females. Currently the amount of individuals diagnosed with a spinal cord injury in the U.S. is ranged from 250,000 to 300,000 persons (Statistics: The Miami Project, 2021)

(Oxford Medical Education, 2016)


This photo shows how the spinal cord is set up as well as what each area of the spinal cord has control of (Oxford Medical Education, 2016)

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

  •  Incomplete: messages are still able to travel to and from the brain to a certain degree.
  • Complete: messages are unable to travel to in and from the brain.
    (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2022)

Symptoms: 

  • Paralysis (Loss of movement)
  • Pressure/Pain in the neck, spine or head
  • Numbness starting in the hands or feet
  • Difficulties walking or breathing
(Incomplete SCI, 2022)

Types of Treatment

Read stories of individuals living with this diagnosis below

Mike's Story
Bill's Story
Kyle's Story
Laeitia's Story

References

Bloomberg Originals. (2020, January 6). This accidental treatment is reversing paralysis. YouTube. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://youtu.be/KCpYa8DsUhA

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: Types, effects, & recovery. Flint Rehab. (2022, July 6). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/incomplete-spinal-cord-injury/

Lennon, A. (2022, May 20). Drug shows promise in treating spinal cord injury: Drug Discovery and Development. Labroots. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.labroots.com/trending/drug-discovery-and-development/22795/drug-promise-treating-spinal-cord-injury?gclid=CjwKCAiA0cyfBhBREiwAAtStHH93jJDpR_03KKDGLocrGK6tR-_OuQtjw2_1gQXsR1ajeJJ7Ghvw1hoCrwgQAvD_BwE

Medications for spinal cord injury: What doctors may prescribe. Flint Rehab. (2021, April 23). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/medications-for-spinal-cord-injury/

Northwestern University. (2021, November 11). Severe spinal cord injuries repaired with ‘dancing molecules’. YouTube. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://youtu.be/Q_xvCE904YU

Oxford Medical Education. (2016). Spinal trauma – anatomy. Oxford Medical Education. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://oxfordmedicaleducation.com/surgery/trauma-and-orthopaedics/spinal-trauma-anatomy/

Occupational therapy for Spinal Cord Injury. Flint Rehab. (2021, July 14). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/occupational-therapy-for-spinal-cord-injury/#:~:text=Occupational%20therapy%20applies%20both%20restorative,affected%20by%20spinal%20cord%20injury.

Statistics. The Miami Project. (2021, March 17). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.themiamiproject.org/resources/statistics/#:~:text=General%20Statistics,78%25%20of%20new%20SCI%20cases.

Therapeutic interventions for Spinal Cord Injury. Physiopedia. (2022). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.physio-pedia.com/Therapeutic_Interventions_for_Spinal_Cord_Injury

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022). Spinal Cord Injury. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury

Urinary Tract Infection Prevention! Don’t believe it!

Prevention Myths, Evidence supporting why!

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a build-up of harmful bacteria, resulting in an uncomfortable diagnosis.

Common symptoms:

By: Jernej Furman
  • Frequent urination of small amounts
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Foul-smelling urine
  • Cramping in abdominal region
  • Urine cloudy or pinkish color

 

 

A UTI is a common diagnosis, with approximately 150 million new cases of UTI each year; with women more likely to be diagnosed than men, and reoccurrence increases with age (Heidar et al., 2019).

Some risk factors, according to https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html

        • Previous UTI
        • Changes in vaginal bacteria
        • Poor hygiene
        • Sexual activity
        • Pregnancy

 

 Photo credit: Leo Reynolds on VisualHunt

Prevention

Myth 1 from a doctor!

Don’t believe everything you read online, even if they are a doctor. In the link below titled “Myths and Truths About Urinary Tract Infections” the author informs the public of some accurate information regarding a UTI and prevention methods. However, the public is informed in this source that the method of wiping for perineal hygiene is not a way to prevent a UTI. In addition, it is noted that cranberry juice/supplements have no support for UTI prevention.

Myths and Truths About Urinary Tract Infections

Evidence to prove them wrong!

A review was conducted by https://doi-org.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.4103/UA.UA_104_19 on various studies, and reports reliable information on prevention of a UTI, such as proper perineal care. An additional article https://doi-org.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.13181/mji.v28i3.3299 assessed multiple studies which shown cranberry consumption to be an effective method in preventing a UTI.

By: Aivar Ruukel

The studies support trialing the methods:

  • Intake of cranberry products
  • Vaginal probiotics
  • Perform proper perineal hygiene (wiping front to back).

Cranberries contain antioxidants, which support a healthy immune system. Wiping front to back prevents fecal matter to enter the urethra. Both methods prevent build-up of bacteria in the urethra which prevents a UTI. The evidence in these articles, prove the methods of prevention in the media source “Myths and Truths About Urinary Tract Infections” to be inaccurate.

Myth 2 all these years!

The media clip below publicizes douching as a method to prevent a UTI. The YouTuber explains the purpose and method of douching to thoroughly clean the vagina. The YouTuber states, “Douching cleanses the vagina to prevent infections.” Douching is supported in this media clip based on the technique being around for many years, and the producer not acquiring a vaginal infection since using this remedy. Various types of douche solutions are explained and suggested to perform after sexual intercourse and after each menstrual cycle.

Evidence to debunk this myth!

The document, Widespread practice can cause array of problems (2018), provides reliable information on douching since it was retrieved from evidence-based studies and https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm. Douching actually alters the good bacteria in the vagina which increases the chances of an infection. Specialists recommend washing only the exterior walls of the vagina with warm water and mild or unscented soap.

The menstrual cycle is a natural way for the body to remove the uterine lining each month. If proper hygiene and correct use of tampons/pads are not implemented, moisture and heat may be trapped which can increase bacteria growth and cause a UTI. Douching is not the correct approach during or after the menstrual cycle, proper hygiene and following the directions associated with tampon/pad use are.

Myth 3 No Tampons!

This media clip informs the public to not use tampons as most contain chemicals which affect the PH balance in the vagina, therefore resulting in a UTI. The producer suggests using menstrual cups or discs and drink plenty of fluids to prevent a UTI.

Proven false by evidence!

According to https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/facts-tampons-and-how-use-them-safely tampons do not cause a UTI as long as they are used correctly. Before any tampons can be sold in the U.S., they must go through the FDA to determine whether they are safe and effective. Follow the directions on the label to safely use tampons and prevent a UTI.

Photo credit: ouvyt on Visualhunt

Know the facts!

Don’ t believe everything you read online, do your research!

  • As supported by the evidence-based research above, proper perineal hygiene and cranberry consumption are two effective ways to prevent a UTI.
  • Vaginal douching is not a healthy means to clean the vagina. The proper method of cleaning, is to clean only the external vaginal walls.

Additional preventative methods, according to https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html

By: Derek Gavey
  • Drink plenty of fluids, at least 8 – 9 cups per day
  • Urinate after sexual activity
  • Take showers instead of baths
  • Minimize sprays or powders in the genital region

Overall

Each day, perform proper hygiene, drink plenty of fluids, consume cranberries, and urinate when you have the urge, so you can expel bacteria. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your doctor. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your doctor immediately.

References

Abou Heidar, N. F., Degheili1, J. A., Yacoubian, A. A., Khauli, R. B. (2019). Management of urinary tract infection in women: A practical approach for everyday practice. Urology Annals, 11(4). https://doi-org.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.4103/UA.UA_104_19

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Bacterial vaginosis – CDC basic fact sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Urinary tract infection. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti/html

United States Food and Drug Administration. (2020). The facts on tampons-and how to use them safely. http:www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/facts-tampons-and-how-to-use-them-safely

Tambunan, M. P., Rahardjo, H. E. (2019). Cranberries for women with recurrent urinary tract infection: A meta-analysis. Medical Journal of Indonesia, 28(3):268–75. https://doi.org/10.13181/mji.v28i3.3299

Widespread practice can cause array of problems. (2018). Chain Drug Review40(4), 33.

What You should Know about Rheumatoid Arthritis

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis, aka RA, is inflammation from the immune system attacking healthy cells in the body where two bones meet. The attack by the body’s immune cells results in pain in the joints and deformities over time. RA occurs all over the body, most notably in the hands and weight-bearing joints such as the spine, knees, and feet.  A medical doctor known as a Rheumatologist will use blood tests and x-rays to diagnose RA. Some signs and symptoms though out the body are weakness,  warm joints, painful stiff joints, and fatigue.

Virginia’s story 

What are the Risk Factors?

The medical community does not know what causes RA. Below is a list of risk factors. The good news is that some of these factors are avoidable:

  • 60 + years old ⏳
  • Smoking 🚬
  • Obesity
  • Genetics🧬
  • Female who has never given birth ♀
  • 2nd hand Smoke exposure a Child👶 🚬

What can Decrease the Risk of RA?

If you’re a woman who chooses to give birth, you can decrease your chances of RA by breastfeeding.

Keeping a healthy body weight through diet and exercise. Because your DNA plays a role in getting RA, being overweight and smoking can amplify your chances of developing RA.

What is the Treatment/Cure?

Your RA treatment will be unique to you. Collaborate with your doctor 🩺 to create a treatment goal that’s right for you. A diagnosis of RA is made worse if you also suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes or other cardiovascular disorders. Remember, there is no cure; low disease activity or remission may be possible. Your RA can be managed by using the following:

working with your doctor

Medication: 💊 Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is a type of medication used to minimize your immune system’s attacks on itself. Over-the-counter pain medication is also used for pain and inflammation control.

Occupational therapy

Occupational Therapy (OT): An OT can provide treatment for joint protection and range of motion. The OT will work with you to adapt your environment, helping you preserve independence.

Stop Smoking:🚭 Seek treatment from a family doctor or smoking sensation program. Cigarette smoke can make the symptoms of RA worse.

Surgery: Surgery may be needed as symptoms progress as a means to retain function.

Managing Obesity: Being active for 30 minutes 3 times a week. An active lifestyle can help keep the weight off. Being overweight puts more stress on arthritic joints, causing you more pain. Water aerobics, swimming, and yoga are highly recommended. Being obese can play diminish the effects of RA medication.

Diet: Avoid highly processed foods, alcohol, saturated fats (solid at room temperature), and red meat🥓. Eating food rich in Omega-3 and turmeric has been shown to reduce the inflammatory symptoms of RA. Check with your Rheumatologist before starting any specific diet or taking supplements. some supplements can affect the medication for RA.

   

 

There is currently no cure for RA, be careful of bogus claims that certain herbs or supplements can cure you. Seek out reputable information 

Where should I seek help?

Talk to your family Doctor. They can refer you to a Rheumatologist.

To find a rheumatologist near you, visit the American College of Rheumatology site.  Click find-a-rheumatologist this link will guide you to a rheumatologist in your area.

Remember your journey with RA is unique to you. Find a rheumatologist, ask questions, collaborate on a plan of care, and take action through diet and exercise.

References :

CNN. (2013, December 6). Symptoms and Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis patients. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq9ouUVGzG8

Isaza, A. (2019). Dietary Supplements for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis as an Alternative to NSAIDs. View Point on the Available Research. Nutritional Perspectives: Journal of the Council on Nutrition, 42(3), 42–44.

Mayo Clinic. (2013, November 14). The Pain, Swelling And Stiffness of Rheumatoid Arthritis [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY8j1UznqIg

Rath, L. (2022). Rheumatoid arthritis treatment guidelines. https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment-guidelines

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) | Arthritis | CDC. (2020.). https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid-arthritis.html

Spinal Cord Injuries

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
Damage to the nerves in the spinal cord or the spinal cord itself due to sudden trauma.

Statistics:
According to the Miami Project, 78% of new diagnosed spinal cord injuries are males and 22% are females. Currently the amount of individuals diagnosed with a spinal cord injury in the U.S. is ranged from 250,000 to 300,000 persons (Statistics: The Miami Project, 2021)

(Oxford Medical Education, 2016)


This photo shows how the spinal cord is set up as well as what each area of the spinal cord has control of (Oxford Medical Education, 2016)

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

  •  Incomplete: messages are still able to travel to and from the brain to a certain degree.
  • Complete: messages are unable to travel to in and from the brain.
    (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2022)

Symptoms: 

  • Paralysis (Loss of movement)
  • Pressure/Pain in the neck, spine or head
  • Numbness starting in the hands or feet
  • Difficulties walking or breathing
(Incomplete SCI, 2022)

Types of Treatment

Read stories of individuals living with this diagnosis below

Mike's Story
Bill's Story
Kyle's Story
Laeitia's Story

References

Bloomberg Originals. (2020, January 6). This accidental treatment is reversing paralysis. YouTube. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://youtu.be/KCpYa8DsUhA

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: Types, effects, & recovery. Flint Rehab. (2022, July 6). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/incomplete-spinal-cord-injury/

Lennon, A. (2022, May 20). Drug shows promise in treating spinal cord injury: Drug Discovery and Development. Labroots. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.labroots.com/trending/drug-discovery-and-development/22795/drug-promise-treating-spinal-cord-injury?gclid=CjwKCAiA0cyfBhBREiwAAtStHH93jJDpR_03KKDGLocrGK6tR-_OuQtjw2_1gQXsR1ajeJJ7Ghvw1hoCrwgQAvD_BwE

Medications for spinal cord injury: What doctors may prescribe. Flint Rehab. (2021, April 23). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/medications-for-spinal-cord-injury/

Northwestern University. (2021, November 11). Severe spinal cord injuries repaired with ‘dancing molecules’. YouTube. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://youtu.be/Q_xvCE904YU

Oxford Medical Education. (2016). Spinal trauma – anatomy. Oxford Medical Education. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://oxfordmedicaleducation.com/surgery/trauma-and-orthopaedics/spinal-trauma-anatomy/

Occupational therapy for Spinal Cord Injury. Flint Rehab. (2021, July 14). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/occupational-therapy-for-spinal-cord-injury/#:~:text=Occupational%20therapy%20applies%20both%20restorative,affected%20by%20spinal%20cord%20injury.

Statistics. The Miami Project. (2021, March 17). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.themiamiproject.org/resources/statistics/#:~:text=General%20Statistics,78%25%20of%20new%20SCI%20cases.

Therapeutic interventions for Spinal Cord Injury. Physiopedia. (2022). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.physio-pedia.com/Therapeutic_Interventions_for_Spinal_Cord_Injury

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022). Spinal Cord Injury. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury