Monday, June 17, 2013

How To Make Best Use of Green Theraband



A green theraband is a latex resistance band and in some cases, a tube, which is used for physical therapy and light strength training exercise. Common users of green theraband are dancers, stage performers and athletes. Physical therapists advice patients and users to apply green theraband before moving on to free weights exercise. 



It has to be noted that green theraband exercise need the user to have an excellent posture. Green theraband is also used in increasing motor function and strength in a long-term exercise plan. Here are few things one should know about green theraband:

1. Green theraband is used for muscle training and recovery if anyone faces an injury and prolonged weakness.

2.It is recommended that one should begin using the green theraband under a physical therapist's direction.

3. It is better to warm up for about 3-5 minutes before using the green theraband.

4. Having a proper posture of the body while using a green theraband is very important. The person using it must ensure that she / he can stand with the back straight, shoulders and hips aligned and the stomach muscles engaged.

5. The green theraband exerts 2.1kg of pressure when stretched to 100 percent and 3kg when stretched to 200 percent.

6. It is better to find a stationary point before using it. One can buy anchor points for walls or use square knots to secure the bands to door handles. Just have to make sure that it is not attached to a moveable structure.

7. During the hardest part of the exercise it is better to breathe in. And while returning to the original position, one should breathe out.

Monday, June 10, 2013

Things You Should Know About Tens Unit



TENS unit is the short form of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Unit. It is a biomedical electronic device that is used for pain control therapy. It is an extremely handy device which is quite small in size; it can be easily fit into a pocket. This portable device is powered by external batteries and it is extremely safe to use.

Working Principle
TENS unit works in a very simple yet delicate manner. The basic principle of the device is, replacing pain with a different sensation. Pain is just an electronic sensation that we feel in our brain passing through the nervous system. TENS unit has electrodes that needs to be placed on one’s skin. The device sends a signal through the wire into the electrodes which penetrates the skin and enters the nerves. Then the signal is passed into the brain which alters the pre-existing pain signal into a comfortable tingling sensation. TENS unit can also increase the release of endorphin in our system. Endorphin is body’s natural defense mechanism to reduce pain.

How to use TENS unit

The placement of the TENS unit electrodes depend on the location of the pain. It can be placed on or surrounding the area of the pain. This device works excellent with joint pain, muscle pain and spasm. Placing the electrodes in the correct place is probably the most important part of using TENS unit. If it is placed in a wrong area, it will not reduce the pain at all. It is absolutely not allowed to place the electrodes in the eyes or any nerves above the shoulders.

Who can use TENS unit

TENS therapy is usually not applied for more than a week. But for recurring pain like arthritis and phantom limb (recurring pain after being amputated) pain, it may be used more often. One of the biggest advantages of TENS unit is its portability. It allows people to use it in their own homes. Before using it on their own, it is important to learn how to use it properly from professional medical personnel.

Things to look out for:

·         First thing to check when using a TENS unit is whether the batteries are fully charged or not. If the device stops during an ongoing session, it might make the pain worse.
·         There are 2 circular knobs in the device; one controls the strength of the signal and the other controls the speed. Both need to be turned off before using it.
·         Thin layer of a special gel needs to be applied where the electrodes will be placed. This gel helps to pass the signal into the nerves properly.
·         Make sure the electrodes are properly stuck to the skin. The electrodes need to be placed in the proper spot throughout the session.
·         Follow the doctor’s recommended strength and speed of the signal.
·         If the strength or speed of the signal is too much then the muscle will start to spasm. If the tingling sensation is not felt then the strength or speed is too low.
·         It is absolutely forbidden to sleep or take a shower while using TENS unit
·         Heart patients using a pacemaker cannot use this device


Thursday, June 6, 2013

Muscle Simulation



Muscle simulation in an excellent device for treating muscle injuries. This device is approved by medical professionals in all countries. Muscle simulation unit was invested by John Faraday, a great physicist, in 1831. All the hospitals and clinics around the world at present use this device for the treatment of injuries in the muscle. Medical professionals use this unit to improve blood circulation, preventing atrophy in the injured muscles, muscle tone and re-educate paralyzed muscles as well.

There is a pair of electrodes with the muscle simulator which needs to be placed at the top or near the affected muscle. The device sends electrical signal to the electrodes which are then send to the muscles through the electrodes. The speed and strength are determined by the several dials in the device. As the electricity enters the muscle through the electrodes, the patient can feel it. According to the doctor's recommendation, the dials are adjusted.

This simulation device is for those who are unable to work out their own muscle in the conventional ways. The motor nerves on the brain are simulated to naturally contract and expand specific muscles through the electrical signals. Once the nerves receive the signals, the muscle starts to contract and expand as per the patients comfort. In this way, they can exercise their muscle and gain muscle mass and keep the muscles strong. Additionally, throughout the body a healthy blood flow is also supplied through Muscle simulation. In order to prevent thrombosis, muscle simulators are also used after surgery.

There are several muscle stimulators available in the market. When choosing which one to buy, factors such as performance, weight and size become important in determining the right one. Currently the LCS 161 Muscle Simulator is the best one taking into consideration all relevant factors. Electrical muscle simulators are growing popularity. They are now used by people to reduce chronic pains and also to get six pack abs. People should be cautious in using the simulator. They should use the electrical signal as prescribed by the doctors, otherwise they might end up harming themselves rather than doing any good.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

What is Green Theraband?



Therabands come in various colors, lengths and varieties depending on longevity and strength capacity. The approximate width is 13 centimeters. One of the most popular colors is the green therabands. It helps improve upper extremity strength and grip power. With the heavy resistance of the green therabands, it is widely used by physiotherapists to improve coordination, range of movement, and help in rehabilitation. It is very portable to bring inside the bag, thus people who loves to travel can still maintain their exercise program anywhere and anytime.

Green therabands are made in straight lengths but can be knotted easily to create loops. It is easy to clean and very durable if maintained with care and used properly. Usually, therabands are provided with reusable and re-sealable plastic bags when purchased.

Green therabands use 2.1kgs or 4.6 pounds of pressure when stretched to 100%, and 3kgs or 6.7 pounds when stretched to 200%.

Green therabands have safety tips as listed by the manufacturer on the boxes upon purchased. Here are some of the tips listed:
  • Prevent the use of the bands in any way that may shatter the eyes, face, or head.
  • Examine the band first for any signs of wear or damage, before usage.
  • Remove all jewelries from the body, to prevent damage on the bands or shattering.
  • Refrain from overstretching the bands.
  • Wash the bands immediately after usage in pools.
  • Children should be under supervision of adults when using these bands.
  • Wear eye protection when using old bands to avoid accident snapping or shattering.
  • In washing the bands, use only plain water and DO NOT use detergent. After washing, allow the bands to dry naturally in the air. Prevent placing it on the radiators.
  • Once the bands are dried, talc can be applied on if desired.
  • Store the bands in a cool and dry place that is away from the direct heat or sunlight.

As you begin to use your green therabands, make sure to locate a stationary zone to secure the theraband. You can use square knots to secure the bands on heavy machinery or door handles, or you can install anchor points on walls. The only important thing is that the structure should not be moveable.

Green therabands when combined with other stretches styles and exercises, can surely improves any injuries or related disorders. It has advanced resistance for those people who have active injuries and experiences golfers elbow conditions. There are also green therabands with medium resistance, which are available in light and heavy capacity. The medium resistance is generally used by most heavy-framed people. It is also good for those people who want to increase their muscular endurance or just beginning a strengthening program.

Green therabands are used in rehabilitation exercises, birthing, balance, stability, Pilates and yoga. Same to other exercising equipments, green therabands also claims similar results not to mention its versatility and portability benefits for unlimited use. It is now being used worldwide and even endorsed by prominent health associations.

Things you should know about Intelect Muscle Stimulation



Intelect muscle stimulation is also known as electrical muscle stimulation wherein it uses fairly minimal low voltage to stimulate motor nerves in the body. It makes the muscles contract and relax the muscles as well as shocks are applied. It also gives better circulation of nutrients and oxygen within the muscles. Muscle stimulation had been an effective method in treating different muscle-skeletal and vascular conditions, and promoting overall physical health. As we go along this article, we will learn further the overall benefits of intellect muscle stimulation as well as other details of the method. Start reading now and learn.

Equipment for intellect muscle stimulation when combined with exercises can be quite beneficial especially for those persons who want to achieve six-pack abs. However, there is some equipment that should be used under the supervision of a health professional. This is because of the extreme implementation required by the equipment itself. The use of the equipment for intellect muscle stimulation before, during, and after exercise can help the muscles and nerves recover faster, and improve the strength and endurance of the muscle growth. On the other hand, intelect muscle stimulation is also helpful for those body areas that are hardly reach by exercise.

Intelect muscle stimulation (IMS) is widely used by physical therapists. IMS machines produce electrical impulses that flow through wires to the attached electrodes. The therapists hold the electrodes over the aim muscles then they apply the intelect muscle stimulation to the patients.

Intelect muscle stimulation prevents muscle deterioration and weakness. Though IMS machines cannot be considered as permanent replacement for active muscle contraction, it could be used effectively in some neurological injuries and diseases. Intelect muscle stimulation is used in combination with dynamic contractions to strengthen the muscles after the surgery process. This technique is effective for ligament repair and quadriceps.

Intelect muscle stimulation helps relieve joint and muscle pains. As the muscle stimulation with minimal setting is applied to the muscles, the contractions result to endorphins, which when released act as the natural pain relievers of the body. In this way, pains are reduced in the same way as taking pain relieving drugs. Moreover, muscle stimulation can contemplate the nervous system from pains.

Muscle spasms are common side effects of most injuries and disease procedures. It is normally painful and uncomfortable because the muscles contract involuntarily. With intelect muscle stimulation technique, the spasms are prevented as the device is applied on to trigger breakage of the spasm cycle. In addition, delayed muscle stimulation process can weaken the spasms resulting to complete relaxation once treatment is done.

Intelect muscle stimulators have various waveform options. Every unit is featured with bright LCD displays and waterproof membrane overlays. Since this product helps relieve body, neck, and back pains, it is also widely used by Chiropractors and Orthopedic Doctors. This product is portable to use however some can be used at home while some needs professional supervision. The common users of this product is those people with high stress levels and having muscle tensions since it helps increase local blood circulation in the body. People who suffer from chronic tension headaches can also find this product beneficial.