What is Atrial Fibrillation?

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Atrial Fibrillation, also referred to as AFIB, is a common health condition that causes your heart to beat abnormally. The electrical impulses in your heart do not transmit across the heart muscle correctly, causing your heart rhythm to be irregular and too fast. AFIB is often described as a flutter or quivering heartbeat. AFIB may cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations, and fatigue, but some people may not experience any symptoms. An irregular heartbeat means your heart is not pumping blood properly which can lead to a significant increase in the risk of blood clots and stroke (CDC.gov, 2020).

Image Source: Google

Is Atrial Fibrillation Preventable?

There are two aspects to the risk of developing AFIB, genetic factors, and lifestyle factors. Genetic factors cannot be modified but making lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of developing AFIB. Recent research indicates that several common risk factors related to the development of AFIB are related to lifestyle choices and therefore reversible with behavioral changes. The major risk factors for AFIB are obesity, physical inactivity, sleep apnea, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and alcohol and tobacco use. By visiting your doctors regularly, losing weight, stopping smoking and drinking alcohol, exercising, and eating a healthy diet, most risk factors are modifiable and can lead to lower chances of developing AFIB and precursors of AFIB (Chung et al., 2020).

Can eating chocolate reduce your risk of AFIB? 

Video Link: Chocolate linked to lower risk for heart condition

Claims have been made that consuming a certain amount of chocolate regularly can lower your risk for developing AFIB, however research studies have found contradictory results. Because chocolate contains substances thought to be beneficial for cardiovascular health, it may help prevent other conditions but there is still debate among the medical community in regards to AFIB (Khawaja et al, 2015). You should consult your physician before adding chocolate to your diet for this purpose, especially if you have other health conditions, such as diabetes mellitus.

Can drinking alcohol increase your risk of AFIB?

Recent research studies have found strong associations between alcohol consumption and the development of AFIB. Evidence indicates that even small amounts of alcohol are related to an increased risk for AFIB. People at risk for AFIB should seriously consider reducing their daily alcohol consumption to one glass or less per day, or abstaining from drinking alcohol altogether (Csengeri et al., 2021). 

Can Atrial Fibrillation be diagnosed by your smart watch?

Video Link: Smart watches are making more people aware of their heartbeats and irregular heartbeats

Recent news reports have made the claim that smart watches with the ability to monitor heart rate and record an electrocardiogram may be able to diagnose AFIB. While studies have found that smart watches may be potentially useful, at the present time the technology still has too many issues and inconsistencies to be considered appropriate for the diagnosis of heart rhythm problems. Smart watches should never be used as an alternative to visiting your doctor and undergoing formal diagnostic testing.

References

CBS News. (2017, May 24). Chocolate is linked to lower risk for heart condition AFib. CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/chocolate-linked-to-lower-risk-for-atrial-fibrillation-heart-health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, September 8). Atrial Fibrillation. cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/atrial_fibrillation.htm

Chung, M. K., Eckhardt, L. L., Chen, L. Y., Ahmed, H. M., Gopinathannair, R., Joglar, J.A., Noseworthy, P. A., Pack, Q. R., Sanders, P., & Trulock, K. M. (2020). Lifestyle and Risk Factor Modification for Reduction of Atrial Fibrillation: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation, 141(16), e750–e772. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000748

Csengeri, D., Sprünker, N.-A., Di Castelnuovo, A., Niiranen, T., Vishram-Nielsen, J. K., Costanzo, S., Söderberg, S., Jensen, S. M., Vartiainen, E., Donati, M. B., Magnussen, C., Camen, S., Gianfagna, F., Løchen, M.-L., Kee, F., Kontto, J., Mathiesen, E. B., Koenig, W., Stefan, B., & de Gaetano, G. (2021). Alcohol consumption, cardiac biomarkers, and risk of atrial fibrillation and adverse outcomes. European Heart Journal, 42(12), 1170–1177. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa953

Fox14now.com. (2021, Jul 14). Smart watches are making more people aware of their heartbeats and irregular heartbeats. Fox13now.com. https://www.fox13now.com/the-place/smart-watches-are-making-more-people-aware-of-their-heartbeats-and-irregular-heartbeats

Haverkamp, W., Butler, J., & Anker, S. D. (2021). Can we trust a smartwatch ECG? Potential and limitations. European Journal of Heart Failure, 23(6), 850–853. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejhf.2194

Khawaja, O., Petrone, A. B., Kanjwal, Y., Gaziano, J. M., & Djoussé, L. (2015). Chocolate Consumption and Risk of Atrial Fibrillation (from the Physicians’ Health Study). American Journal of Cardiology, 116(4),563–566. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjcard.2015.05.009

PatientEducation.Video. (2017, May 1). Alcohol and Atrial fibrillation, by Dr. Carlo Oller. Youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH8ekR2SI8M

This blog post contains basic information to build upon as you continue your journey through type II diabetes. The intent of the information given is to promote your safety and savviness at managing your disease. Diabetics can experience feelings of anxiety, shame, frustration, guilt, and hopelessness with every misinformed article they read or video they watch. It is important to consume clear and accurate information to alleviate these feelings and inspire motivation and independence in your disease management.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed with the onslaught of recommendations from various sources about how you should be taking care of yourself? Type II diabetes is a complex disease that can affect those who have it in many different ways. What works for diabetics on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or YouTube may not work as well for you (and vice versa). In addition, anyone can post information to the internet regardless of their credibility for reasons such as fame or desire to sell certain products to diabetics.

In the video above, Dr. Rodriguez explains what is happening in the body of somebody with type II diabetes. It is a common misconception that diabetes is only diagnosed in people who are overweight and do not take care of themselves. In reality, risk factors for type II diabetes include sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, and family history of diabetes.

It is recommended to incorporate diabetic education and resilience training to a regimen of diet and exercise to better handle the stress associated with diabetes. In addition, resilience training provides tools for you to hold a sense of diabetes empowerment (Dubois et al., 2020).

Take advice with “a grain of salt.”

As mentioned above, methods that work for some diabetics may not work as well for you. For example, someone may tell you to never eat potatoes and that they are detrimental to your diabetes. However, maybe this person’s blood sugar rises abnormally high after eating potatoes or they they cannot control themselves around potatoes and have a difficult time limiting themselves to just one serving. Learning about how different foods and methods work for you takes time. The best way to navigate your diabetic journey is to check your blood sugar periodically (usually before meals and at bedtime) and to develop a solid relationship with a physician whom you trust and who understands your life and needs.

Beware of information that seems too good to be true.

It is important to watch videos that claim to have the secret to curing diseases with a critical eye. Right off the bat, this physician has succumbed to using clickbait in his video by claiming that certain foods can cure diabetes. Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be well managed and controlled. Second, “superfoods” is a buzzword that can lure people into sources with false claims. Another red flag is the physician mentioning vague studies, but not citing them. In addition, he does not explain how the foods he mentions have the drastic impact on diabetes he claims they do. 

Communicate with your doctor!

This TedTalk is by a physician who works directly with diabetic patients. In contrast to the previous video, she directly references specific studies with every claim she mentions. Also, YouTube has cited her background and credentials. She makes bold claims and veers off into what seems extreme by attempting to eliminate carbohydrates entirely. While it has been shown that low carbohydrate diets are effective in diabetic management, it is hard to coordinate this diet on your own (Bawazir et al., 2021). After seeing a video like this, you may want to begin following her diet immediately. This can be harmful because you may limit yourself too much and bring your blood sugar dangerously low, or you may try this diet and end up bingeing. If you believe the ideas this physician presents are fascinating and something worth trying, it is recommended to speak with your physician so you both can coordinate a diet plan that works for your unique body.

In conclusion, it is important to critique what you see online or what you hear from peers because it may be contributing to poor diabetic management and mindset. Remember to note who is giving you information and to share any concerns with your physician. Keep in mind the holistic nature of yourself. You are not your disease and diabetes does not have to have complete control over your body and mind.

References

Veteran PTSD, also known as an “invisible wound of war”, is a very serious problem. Affecting as many as 1 in 5 of veterans from Afghanistan and 1 in 8 of veterans from Iraq, Veteran PTSD claims the lives of as many as 22 US Veterans a day through suicide. That is an astounding number of people dying every day who had ironically already given their lives up at least once to serve the very country that fails to help them effectively. There is not enough staffing or funding to help these poor men and women the way they should be helped. Too many of these Veterans suffering from PTSD find themselves jobless, homeless, and addicted to drugs because they are being left behind.

Our lonely society makes it hard to come home from war | Sebastian Junger

What are some signs and symptoms of Veteran PTSD?
Nightmares or night terrors
Flashbacks
Depression
Feeling lost
Losing interest in things you once loved
Rage or unwarranted anger

Branden gets help with PTSD

Just like any other mental illness, having predispositions like a family history of PTSD or depression makes one more likely to suffer from it themselves. Knowing your family history is a great way to get started with treating PTSD. It could be a lifelong battle, but having support is crucial in the healing process.

8 Things you should know about Veteran PTSD

Most American civilians will never be exposed to or witness the types of violence and violence-related death as the men and women who served this county overseas. It is imperative non-military civilians not only appreciate, but understand the sacrifice our Veterans made for this country. Some of them carry lifelong invisible battle wounds that will only heal with time and acceptance.

References

Video 1
Our lonely society makes it hard to come home from war | Sebastian Junger

Video 2
Branden gets help with PTSD

Video 3
8 Things you should know about Veteran PTSD

Mattson, E., James, L., & Engdahl, B. (2018). Personality Factors and Their Impact on PTSD and Post- traumatic Growth is Mediated by Coping Style Among OIF/OEF Veterans. Military Medicine, 183(9/10), e475–e480. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usx201

MCGRATH, P. B. (2018). Virtual Reality Therapy Helps Ease Veterans’ PTSD. Health Progress, 99(4), 26– 29.

Morland, L. A., Wells, S. Y., Glassman, L. H., Grubbs, K. M., Mackintosh, M.-A., Golshan, S., Sohn, M. J., Thorp, S. R., Savage, U. C., & Acierno, R. E. (2019). What Do Veterans Want? Understanding Veterans’ Preferences for PTSD Treatment Delivery. Military Medicine, 184(11/12), 686–692. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usz035

How do you start your day? If you are like me, I feel like I could not do anything in the morning until I have my coffee. A warm cup of coffee soothes my soul, makes me feel more focused, and provides me the energy I need to tackle the problems of the day. 

But have you ever wonder if you are a coffee addict? Or may someone told you that having too much caffeine may not be good for you. This blog will provide you the most up-to-date info about caffeine and its effects on your body.

What you need to know about caffeine 

Caffeine in powder or liquid form can provide toxic levels of caffeine, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has cautioned. Caffeine can be found in coffee, teas, cocoa, soft drinks, and energy drinks. It stimulates your brain and nervous system and increases the circulation of chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline in the body (Better Health Chanel, 2020).  Caffeine can give you an energy boost and help you concentrate when you use it in small doses. However, If you ingest caffeine in large quantities, you’ll probably experience anxiety and difficulty sleeping. 

Caffeine has its perks, but it can pose problems too. 

What does caffeine do to the body?

An individual can feel the short-term effects of caffeine within 5 or 30 minutes of consumption. These effects may include an increased heart rate, breathing, as well as increased mental alertness and physical energy. The effects can continue up to 12 hours, depending on the individual. Having a little dose of caffeine can bring a positive effect. If one person consumes too much caffeine, the signs and symptoms are increased body temperature, frequent urination, dizziness and headache, increased heart rate, anxiety and agitation, trembling hands, and sleeplessness.

 How much caffeine is too much? 

Caffeine’s effect on you is determined by your body mass, health, and metabolism. Additionally, it is dependent on whether your body is accustomed to receiving regular doses of caffeine. According to Mayo Clinic, 400mg of caffeine per day or less is an acceptable amount for the general population. Caffeine is a xanthine derivative that is widely utilized as a psychostimulant on a global scale and may be a helpful biological model of an induced panic attack (Mayo Clinic, 2020). According to the study in 2008, the researcher conducted a caffeine challenge test in panic disorder patients. There were 25 panic disorder (PD) patients, 27 healthy first-degree relatives of probands with PD, and 22 healthy volunteers with no PD disorder. They were given 480 mg caffeine and a caffeine-free solution to those groups. In this coffee challenge test, PD patients and their first-degree relatives were more sensitive to panic attack symptoms than healthy volunteers but were less responsive to headache, blood pressure elevation, and insomnia. Our data showed a link between panic attacks and coffee intake of 480 mg in PD patients and their first-degree relatives. A caffeine test clearly distinguishes PD patients and their first-degree relatives from the healthy group (Nardi, 2008). 

Or the short answer is, don’t drink more than 400mg of caffeine per day. 

Panic attack? Do you need to worry about that?

Caffeine itself doesn’t directly cause a panic attack according to the research. However, it induces panic attacks via the sensations that come with consuming caffeine such as elevated heart rate, increased body temperature, dizziness, headache, and sleeplessness. If such sensations can trigger someone’s panic attack, then they are more likely to get a panic attack from drink too much coffee. However, once someone is trained to overcome the panic-attack-induced sensations, they will not get the panic attack from consuming caffeine. So the upshot here according to the video is “Caffeine does not directly cause panic attacks. Instead, it’s your response to the sensations that caffeine can create, that can trigger a panic attack or not” (Norman, 2016). 

Reducing caffeine intake can improve your anxiety

Reducing caffeine intake can make you feel better about your mental and emotional state. Your heart and digestive system will also appreciate a rest, which might help you physiologically.
Your mood will slowly begin to improve along with your anxiety leaving you less sensitive to the daily frustrations. According to Harvard Medical School, studies linking coffee consumption to cardiovascular disease have mostly observed it with higher consumption (Shmerling, 2017). By cutting back on coffee or simply giving it up, you’ll minimize your risk of severe cardiac diseases and decrease your blood pressure dramatically. Reduced blood flow helps alleviate muscle pain and headaches.

You may want to cut back if you’re drinking more than 4 cups of caffeinated coffee a day!

References

Nardi, A. E., Valença, A. M., Nascimento, I., Freire, R. C., Veras, A. B., De-Melo-Neto, V. L., Lopes, F. L., King, A. L., Soares-Filho, G. L., Mezzasalma, M. A., Rassi, A., & Zin, W. A. (2008). A caffeine challenge test in panic disorder patients, their healthy first-degree relatives, and healthy controls. Depression & Anxiety (1091-4269), 25(10), 847–853. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.20354

Caffeine. (2020, March 20). Better Health Chanel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/caffeine#bhc-content

Norman, M. [YouTube]. (2016, May 18). How to stop panic attacks naturally and fast: avoid caffeine? [Video]. Panic Free TV. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1j9f6AbxQ0

Caffeine: How much is too much? (2020, March 6). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678#:~:text=Up%20to%20400%20milligrams%20%28mg%29%20of%20caffeine%20a,in%20beverages%20varies%20widely%2C%20especially%20among%20energy%20drinks.

Shmerling. R (2017, September 25). The latest scoop on the health benefits of coffee. Harvard Health Publishing Medical School. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-latest-scoop-on-the-health-benefits-of-coffee-2017092512429

By: dierk schaefer

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative condition of the brain that causes impaired cognitive abilities, and can lead to severe memory loss. The primary cognitive abilities that are impaired include the loss of thinking, remembering, and reasoning over time. This is a disease that has a slow onset, and usually progresses over a long period of time. Getting news that a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be stressful for not only the patient, but also their close friends and family; But, having this knowledge of the disease can be beneficial for everyone involved. Family and friend caregivers can take the necessary precautions to help slow the disease progression, and the patient can be more involved in their care.

Signs & Symptoms

Alzheimer’s Disease is broken down into 3 categories: Early-stage, Middle-stage, and Late-stage. Each stage has specific symptoms, but there can be an overlap within the stages, sometimes making it hard to determine how much someone progressed. It’s important to be aware of the different signs and symptoms your loved one may be showing, so you can provide better care considering their current stage.

Providing Care

Being the caregiver to someone with Alzheimer’s disease is never an easy task to take on, but everything you do means the world to your loved one, even if they can’t show it. As a caregiver, the number one priority to always think about is SAFETY! As this disease progresses, the judgement, perception, and problem-solving skills are impaired, which then increases the risk for injuries. Ways to create a safe environment include:

• Put locks on doors leading outside; lock up medications, alcohol, toxic cleaning substances, or weapons
• Prevent falls with handrails on stairs and in bathrooms; avoid slip rugs in high traffic areas; avoid extension cords
• Fire precautions (have a fire extinguisher in the house and know your escape plan)

Frustration can come easily for both the patient and the caregiver, so try to be aware of the patient’s behavior every day. If something is bothering them, or they are unable to complete a task, their mood can change in the blink of an eye. Remain cool, calm and collected when trying to ease their anxiety through these tips:

• Keep communication simple
• Take your time with instructions
• Ask/say one thing at a time
• Focus on the person’s feelings
• Maintain a strict daily routine (but be open to flexibility)
• Don’t try to argue/reason with the person
• Don’t show the person if you have feelings of frustration or annoyance
  • Take deep breaths
  • Leave the room for a few minutes to cool off
• Use distraction when the person becomes agitated or upset

Caregiver Needs

Being the designated caregiver of a loved one can be rewarding, knowing that you’re the reason they are able to live a happy and healthy life, but it can also become a growing burden too. When you get to work in the morning and are having a bad day, you can usually look forward to going home later on, change into comfortable clothes, lie down on the couch, and relax for the rest of the night. Being a caregiver, however, is a 24/7 job that you essentially never stop. This type of lifestyle can lead to severe stress, fatigue, and overall burnout in a short amount of time if ignored. Signs of burnout look like:

• Increased fatigue
• Lack of energy
• Sleep disturbances
• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
• Neglecting your own healthcare
• Isolation
• Feeling hopeless
• Eating habit changes (too much or not enough)

Remembering to take time for yourself and focusing on your own life is just as important as caring for somebody else’s. Preventing burnout can be achieved through:

• ASK FOR HELP!
• Attend support groups with other caregivers
• Take breaks
• Make time for your friends and family
• Get out of the house
• Regular exercise

Taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease has it’s benefits and downsides, just like any other job. The way you choose to manage this care, however, will determine the outcome of both your life as a caregiver, and your loved one’s life as the patient. Having a good understanding of this disease, knowing effective ways to provide patient care, and taking time for your own needs will promote a positive experience for everyone.

References

Alzheimer’s disease: A caregiver’s perspective. YouTube. (2017, April 2). https://youtu.be/O9726ZlezE0.

Burke, S. L., Cadet, T., Alcide, A., O’Driscoll, J., & Maramaldi, P. (2018). Psychosocial risk factors and Alzheimer’s disease: the associative effect of depression, sleep disturbance, and anxiety. Aging & Mental Health, 22(12), 1577-1584.                                                               https://doi.org/10.1080/13607863.2017.1387760

Editorial TeamMay 10, 2019. (n.d.). What are the three stages of alzheimer’s disease? AlzheimersDisease.net. https://alzheimersdisease.net/stages.

Pudelewicz, A., Baczyk, G., & Talarska, D. (2019). Burden of caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Scandanavian Journal of Caring Sciences, 33(2), 336-341.                         https://doi.org/10.1111/scs.12626

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Managing personality and behavior changes in alzheimer’s. National Institute on Aging.                                                                       https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/managing-personality-and-behavior-changes-alzheimers.

YouTube. (2019, September 17). How to prevent caregiver burnout. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghCuXB6-tdc.

It is often believed that Hospice and Palliative are the same, and often the misconception that entering into Hospice care is giving up on life. However, many are unaware that entering Hospice care focuses on quality of life, symptom management and improves end-of-life outcomes (Limerick, & Sutton, 2020).

Quality vs. Quantity

When there are no more options for curative treatment, the focus is on quality of life at end-of-life. Focusing on the quality of life allows patients and families to spend their precious time with those they love (Boyle, 2019). Hospice care also provides ongoing support for families for up to one year later through phone calls, visits, and cards.

Hospice care starts with a conversation.

Debunking the myths around hospice begins with a conversation (Kline, & Panosky, 2017). Some believe Hospice is a place, but Hospice care is in your home.  Home can be your private residence, a skilled nursing home, or a retirement facility. Sometimes patients who do not understand this may die in the hospital away from their loved ones. 

By: Jonathan Rolande

In addition, those who die in the hospital often do not receive the quality of care in the emergency room due to the high turnover of patients and pressures on staff related to incoming emergencies (Anderson, 2019).

References

Anderson, N. E. (2019). Death in the emergency department: A rapid review. Emergency Nurse New Zealand, 7–10.
Boyle, D. A. (2019). Nursing Care at the End of Life: Optimizing care of the family in the hospital setting. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 23(1), 13–17. https://doi.org/10.1188/19.CJON.13-17
Kline, J., & Panosky, D. (2017). Increasing the Use of Palliative and Hospice Services. International Journal for Human Caring, 21(4), 214–217. https://doi.org/10.20467/HumanCaring-D-17-00003
Limerick, M., & Sutton, M. (2020). Palliative Care. Journal of Oncology Navigation & Survivorship, 11(4), 123–124.

Breast Cancer and caring for your patients

Breast cancer can be scary for anyone. It is not always talked about for men, but yes men too. About I in 8 women develop breast cancer, and 1 in 4 know someone who has been affected by it. Health care providers recommend that women do regular self-exams for breast cancer detection. Patients may be confused about how to perform when to examine your breast. The week before your menstrual cycle, after weight gain, and weight loss. If you no longer have your menstrual cycle, pick the same day every month. Letting your doctor know if any changes

The video below will demonstrate.

Looking for visible changes such as new shapes and sizes, It is normal to have one breast larger than the other. Dimpling or puckering on the nipple, rashes that come and frequently go on the skin around the nipple; change is the nipple as inversion, retraction, bleeding, or discharge. Redness or soreness to the armpit area, new veins on the surface. Check while raising hands above head, hands-on-hips, and while laying down. A lump, swelling or thicking may show in one position but not in all.

Risk factors can stem from anywhere 

There is no magic answer to what causes breast cancer. Some factors that have been the same are biological and environmental factors that increase one’s chances.

Biological Factors

– Over the age of 55

– Family history of cancer

– Starting your period before 12, or menopause after 55

– Having the BRACA1 and BRACA2 gene in your family

Environmental factors

– Poor diet and nutrition

– Overweight or obese

– Consuming alcoholic beverages

– Smoking tobacco

– Having excessive radiation

– Using birth control

– Taking hormones

Caring for patients as a nurse, with a kind heart and warm touch. The understanding of the process can ease the mind of women. Give the patients to the floor to ask any questions. A patient will think that they are asking too many questions or that they may be dumb and don’t ask it. Giving a positive experience will add trust and encouraging conversation into a full-stress topic such as breast cancer or screening. As a provider, you may have to speak about the pros and cons of mammograms and genetic testing in as simple of manner as possible, thus being respectful and educated for understanding. Not all patients will understand all medical terminology. When you go the extra mile for your patients, they feel it and will remember that experience forever.

References

Brucker, Mary. (2017, October). Breast cancer screening . Define_me. https://nwhjournal.org/article/S1751-4851(17)30269-6/fulltext. 

Maree, J. E., & Mulonda, J. K. (2017). Caring for Patients with Advanced Breast Cancer: The Experiences of Zambian Nurses. Asia-Pacific journal of oncology nursing, 4(1), 23–28. https://doi.org/10.4103/2347-5625.199077

Prolla, C. M., da Silva, P. S., Netto, C. B., Goldim, J. R., & Ashton-Prolla, P. (2015). Knowledge about breast cancer and hereditary breast cancer among nurses in a public hospital. Revista latino-americana de enfermagem, 23(1), 90–97. https://doi.org/10.1590/0104-1169.0185.2529

Wu, T. Y., & Chen, S. L. (2017). Breast Cancer Screening Practices and Related Health Beliefs among Taiwanese Nurses. Asia-Pacific journal of oncology nursing, 4(2), 104–1111.      https://doi.org/10.4103/2347-5625.20449

Kinesio Tape – Is it All in Your Head?

It is estimated that the placebo rate of a cure ranges from 15%-72% (Brynle, 2012).

By: Phil Roeder

The recent 2021 Tokyo Olympics may have caught your eyes as colored tape was adorned on athletes’ bodies. What is it? What is it for? Does it work? I investigated these questions to correct, validate, or debunk Kinesio tape with research-based evidence.

By: Marco Verch Professional Photographer

What is it? 

Kinesio tape is a pliable, elastic cotton tape that works with the motion of your body, allowing unrestricted movement for the full range of motion of a joint.  Dr. Kenzo Kase, the inventor of Kinesio tape, claims that the Kinesio tape is a way to heal the body (The Henry Ford, 2019).

Being a part of the therapy world, I have seen firsthand how therapists love Kinesio tape. Therapists utilize Kinesio tape to assist with swelling, pain management, and joint support. However, not all therapists believe that it works due to a placebo effect or varying research. Although Kinesio tape does work for some conditions, it does not work for all conditions.

Does Kinesio Tape Work for Low Back Fatigue?

WLWT news (2012) interviewed physical therapist Jamie Baliss, who reported medical claims of “ailments from swelling, to stabilizing a joint, to promote muscle function, or it can even help out with a stiff neck. I’ve used it from the jaw, treating TMJ problems, the neck, the shoulder, the elbow, the knee, the hip, the ankle, and the lower back.” Alvarez-Alvarez, F. Garcia-Muro, San Jose, A.L. Rodriguez-Fernandez, J. Gueita-Rodriguez & B.J. Waller (2014) conducted a clinical trial to determine if Kinesio tape (KT) decreased muscle fatigue in the low back. The participants broke into three categories of the placebo, the KT, and the control. The KT is applied vertically and laterally from T12 to the sacroiliac joint as well as KT was applied the placebo group horizontally over the muscles of the lower back. To then test the fatigue of the lower back muscles with the control, KT, and placebo tape applied, the participants obtained a Biering-Sorensen test. Consequently, those with the KT applied could withstand the muscle contraction from the Biering-Sorensen test for approximately 35.5 seconds longer than the control group. This indicated that “the Kinesio tape applied on the lower back significantly delays the onset of paravertebral muscle fatigue in healthy young adults compared to no tape and produces better effects, although not significant, than placebo application” (Alvarez-Alvarez et al., 2014, p. 210). Therefore, the peer-reviewed research article, “Effects of Kinesio Tape in Low Back Muscle Fatigue: Randomized, Controlled, Doubled-Blinded Clinical Trial on Healthy Subjects,” concluded that KT does in fact support Jamie Baliss’ medical claims in the media clip.

Does Kinesio Tape Help with Recovery from Intense Exercise?

KT Tape 2021 Olympic TV Spot (2021) showcased Kerri Walsh Jennings, 3x gold medalist, who stated, “More than ever before I have to work hard to stay in shape, I run, I lift, I do yoga, that means sore knees, sore back, sore everything. KT tape helps me push past the pain. Used by athletes around the world and at home, just like you, KT tape relieves the pain of aching muscles and joints…use it for many common injuries.”  Disaphon Boobpachat, Nuttaset Manimmanakorn, Apiwan Manimmanakorn, Worrawut Thuwakum, & Michael John Hamlin (2021) conducted a study to determine if Kinesio tape (KT) would compare against a placebo tape to improve anaerobic power regaining time after intense exercise. The 32 female participants in the study do not actively participate in physical exercise on a routine basis. Additionally, the participants did not have any medical conditions that would affect the study. For seven days, the participants were contained into three categories of the elastic tape, placebo tape, and stretching groups. The elastic and placebo tape groups received the application of the tape on contrasting musculature. The stretching group performed static stretches three times a day after the rigorous exercise. Muscle contractions and strength were measured utilizing an isokinetic dynamometer. In conclusion, “elastic tape applied to the quadriceps muscle of untrained females using the facilitation technique provided no additional benefit to muscular strength, muscular power or anaerobic power recovery compared to placebo tape or static stretching with no tape” (Boobpachat et al., 2021, p. 273). Consequently, the peer-reviewed research article, “Elastic Taping has Little Effect on Recovery of Anaerobic Power After Intensive Exercise in Untrained Females,” concluded that KT does not support some of the medical claims from Kerri Walsh Jennings in the media clip.

Does Kinesio Tape Help with Tennis Elbow?

The Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation (2021) interviewed Dr. Kenzo, inventor of Kinesio tape, who stated, “…use the tape to heal injuries and support and stabilize muscles. My tape, when we apply it correctly, we can move inflammatory material.” Additionally, Dr. Kenzo applied KT to the interviewer as the interviewer stated that he had had pain in his forearm from overuse of the extremity. After Dr. Kenzo applied the KT to the interviewer, he stated that the tape could reduce his pain from the KT. Lateral Epicondylitis is a painful condition in the elbow region from overuse. Banu Dilek, Ibrahim Batmaz, Mustafa Akif Sariyildiz, Ebru Sahin, Leman Ilter, Selmin Gulbahar, Remzi Cevik, & Kemal Nas (2016) conducted a study to determine if Kinesio tape would increase function for those with lateral epicondylitis. The thirty-one tested individuals did not have any conditions that would influence or conflict with the study. Kinesio tape (KT) was applied to the area, causing the issue twice a week for two weeks. The participants continued with their functional living and then were tested utilizing a dynamometer, and further interviews were conducted to evaluate progress. The KT showed to be effective as 64.5% had increased results with 9.7% with no change. “In our study, we found that KT for LE can improve pain, function, grip strength, patients’ satisfaction, and stage of disease at 2 and 6 weeks after treatment” (Dilek et al., 2016, p. 855). Therefore, the peer-reviewed research article, “Kinesio taping in patients with lateral epicondylitis,” did show to be effective with the forearm condition from overuse and further validating the claims from Dr. Kenzo Kase.

What does this mean?

The research did, in fact, correct the media’s claims. However, the research also concluded that Kinesio does help with some conditions, but not all.

Alvarez-Alvarez, S., Jose, F.G.-M.S., Rodriguez-Fernandez, A.L., Gueita-Rodriguez, J., & Waller, B.J. (2014). Effects of kinesio tape in low back muscle fatigue: randomized, controlled, doubled-blinded clinical trial on healthy subjects. Journal of Back & Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 27(2), 203-212. https://doi.org/10.3233/BMR-130437

Brynle, F. (2012 January 10). The placebo effect: how it works. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brain-sense/201201/the-placebo-effect-how-it-works

Boobpachat, D., Manimmanakorn, N., Manimmanakorn, A., Thuwakum, W., & Hamlin, M.J. (2021). Elastic taping has little effect on recovery of anaerobic power after intensive exercise in untrained females. Songkanakarin Journal of Science & Technology, 43(1), 269-274. file:///D:/NEIT/Summer%202021%20Writing%20in%20Health%20Sciences/Blog%20%20Elastic%20taping%20has%20little%20effect%20on%20recover%20of%20anaerobic%20power%20after%20intensive%20exercise%20in%20untrained%20females.pdf

Dilek, B, Batmaz, I., Akif Sariyildiz, M., Sahin, E., Ilter, L., Gulbahar, S., Cevik, R., & Nas, K. (2016). Kinesio taping in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 29, 853-858. file:///D:/NEIT/Summer%202021%20Writing%20in%20Health%20Sciences/Blog%20KT%20in%20patients%20with%20lateral%20epicondylitis.pdf

KT Tape. (2021, June 2). KT tape 2021 olympic tv spot. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQTptZXIlCE

The Henry Ford. (2019, November 12). How kinesio tape heals athletic injuries. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MccN65hkOs0

WLWT. (2012, August 7). Kinesio tape adorned by olympic athletes. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39BUiP7qr30

What is Diabetes? 

Diabetes is a health condition that’s chronic, either your body doesn’t make sufficient insulin or it doesn’t use the insulin properly. There are three types; type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is likely an autoimmune reaction which causes your body not to  produce sufficient insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when blood sugar is kept at abnormal levels due to the body not using the insulin properly. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women with no history of diabetes, increasing the baby’s chances for health problems. As reported by the CDC, it is the seventh leading cause of death within the United States as well as the main cause of blindness in adults, kidney failure, and lower-limb amputations, (CDC, 2020).

Ways to Manage Diabetes

CenterLightHealthCare

Although there isn’t a cure yet, there are steps that one could take to manage the condition. 

• Blood sugar checks as directed by your doctor
• Daily foot check, inspect for cuts, redness, swelling, sore, blisters, or any other changes
• Take your diabetes medication as directed by your doctor
• Make sure you have the appropriate education and support, ask your doctor about Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES)
• Eat a healthy diet, create a healthy eating plan with a dietitian or a diabetes educator
• Prepare for sick days, as blood sugar can be harder to manage
• Maintain a healthy weight and get at least 150 mins of moderate physical activity weekly

Prevent Diabetes Complications 

By properly managing diabetes and making lifestyle changes, you’re lowering your risk for developing diabetes complications. Some of those complications being;

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis
• Heart Disease
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Nerve Damage
• Foot Health
• Oral Health
• Hearing Loss
• Vision Loss
• Mental Health

Gluxus

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, June 11). What is diabetes? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetes.html.

Gottselig, N. (2011). Diabetes: Myths and facts. Alive: Canada’s Natural Health & Wellness Magazine, 349, 22–29.

Rodrigo Barros, M. D. (n.d.). Diabetes signs, symptoms, types, causes, treatments and more. Diabetes Signs, Symptoms, Types, Causes, Treatments and More. https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/diabetes.

Robertson, R. (2021, January 13). Controlling your diabetes. CenterLight Healthcare. https://www.centerlighthealthcare.org/blog-1/2019/3/25/controlling-diabetes.