Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that affects millions of people around the world. It commonly develops in older adults but can also occur in younger people due to genetics or injuries. Osteoarthritis causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints, making daily activities such as walking and lifting difficult and uncomfortable. More severe cases may lead to serious disability or even impairments such as loss of mobility.

Osteoarthritis is also a condition affecting our bones. The protective coating between joints wears away as time passes, leading to uncomfortable rubbing when we move. This can cause inflammation of the joints’ inner lining. In addition, as osteoarthritis progresses, adjacent structures like ligaments and tendons may be damaged, which can restrict movement further. Fortunately, there are osteoarthritis treatment options available to help manage the condition. Let’s look at some of the different osteoarthritis treatment options.

●    Treatment With Exercise and Activity Modification

One of the essential things you can do to manage osteoarthritis is to stay active. Regular exercise helps keep joints limber and robust, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility. However, ensuring you exercise appropriately for your fitness and condition level is vital. If you have any doubts about what exercises are safe for you to do, speak to your doctor or physical therapist.

●    Anti-Inflammatory Medication Treatments

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are especially beneficial for relieving osteoarthritis symptoms and improving overall mobility in some cases. Unlike many other treatments, NSAIDs are affordable and widely available without a prescription. In addition, they may help to reduce swelling, stiffness, and pain in affected joints. However, consult your doctor before taking any medications for your osteoarthritis, as some long-term use of NSAIDs could lead to more severe health complications.

●    Injection Treatments To Reduce Inflammation

In some instances, injections can be an effective option for managing osteoarthritis symptoms. This treatment typically involves directly injecting medications into the affected joint. Depending on the type of medication used, this approach can provide fast relief from pain and other symptoms, often with longer-lasting results compared to oral medications.

However, before considering osteoarthritis treatment, you must talk to your medical doctor about the risks and benefits before deciding whether injections are right for you.

●    Advanced Treatment With Orthobiologics

Orthobiologic treatments involve using proteins derived from cells in the human body (or synthesized proteins) to promote healing or regeneration in damaged tissue or bone, and it’s a standard option for osteoarthritis treatment. Orthobiologics can treat various musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis, depending on where they are injected into the body. Orthobiologic therapies are becoming increasingly popular due to their effectiveness in treating conditions without surgery or invasive procedures.

Conclusion: There Is Hope For Those With Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis doesn’t have to mean living with constant pain and limited mobility; many treatment options available can help relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for those suffering from this condition. Something is out there for everyone, from exercise modifications to injections containing corticosteroids or PRP (plasma-rich therapy)! Speak with your doctor about what treatment plan would work best for you to get back on track toward optimal health again.

Excessive sugar consumption has multiple drawbacks to your health. Thus, various supplements to stop sugar cravings for people who can’t resist their sweet tooth are available in the market.

This article will explain why you have sugar cravings, what sugar does to your body, and the best supplements to keep your sugar cravings at bay.

Why Do People Crave Sugar?

Many of us prefer sugary treats and candies as desserts or snacks. We do this for a variety of scientific reasons.

Sugar releases dopamine in our brains. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in reward-seeking and pleasure.

When we eat sweet foods, our brain interprets them as a form of pleasure overload. As a result, we crave more sugar to achieve the same level of feel-good brain chemicals.

During evolution, our ancestors sought high-calorie foods to fuel their bodies during starvation. Because sugary foods are more significant in calories, humans acquire a biological inclination for them.

The Dangers of Excessive Sugar Intake

While it may feel good at the moment to eat a sugary snack, a sudden spike in your sugar levels can damage your health quickly this way.

Some of the health consequences of overeating sugar are the following:

• Weight gain
• Acne
• Fatty liver
• Increases depression risk
• Increases risk of type 2 diabetes
• Fastens cell aging
• Increases risk of heart disease

6 Best Supplements to Help You Stop Sugar Cravings

To help you improve your blood sugar control, here are some of the best supplements to help you avoid too much sugar.

L-Glutamine

L-glutamine is an amino acid that controls blood sugar levels, which helps to lessen and even eliminate cravings. You can take it with your meals or whenever you feel a sugar craving.

L-Glutamine also aids insulin production, the hormone that lowers blood sugar levels after eating. Increasing insulin function can prevent blood sugar swings that can lead to cravings.

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral that can improve insulin responses and control blood sugar levels.

Chromium helps to balance glucose levels, reducing the brain’s craving for extra sugar when you’re hungry. Its beneficial impact on fat metabolism can also aid in the reduction of bad cholesterol.

There is no concrete proof that chromium causes sugar cravings. However, some study has suggested that chromium can aid in limiting carbohydrate cravings and reduce appetite and food consumption. It’s also been found to help with binge eating and weight loss.

Vitamin B Complex

Vitamin B complex aids in glucose metabolism and blood sugar regulation. It enhances the utilization of the carbs that you do consume. This vitamin will help ease the desire to consume more than you need.

Magnesium

One of magnesium’s tasks is to balance blood sugar. According to research, magnesium supplementation can help decrease insulin resistance and enhance insulin management.

Magnesium also aids in sleep improvement and stress reduction. These two activities play significant factors in our desire to consume sugar.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that aids in hundreds of biological activities in the body. We can develop many magnesium deficiency disorders and symptoms if we don’t get enough of it.

Lipase

Lipase is an enzyme that aids the body in breaking down fat and burning it for energy. If you take this supplement before your main meals of the day, your body will be better equipped to metabolize the fats you eat.

As a result, lipase minimizes the energy drop that causes you to have excess sugar consumption.

Serotonin

Serotonin has an impact on learning, memory, and happiness. It also controls body temperature, relaxation, sexual behavior, and appetite. Low serotonin levels may make you feel gloomy, agitated, and tense throughout the day.

You are more inclined to seek unhealthy sweet treats when you are overwhelmed, upset, or stressed. Sugar makes us feel good, so we naturally crave it when stressed.

Increasing your serotonin levels can assist you in fighting anxiousness and stress. When you’re feeling better, you’re less prone to crave more sugar.

Overcome Sugar Cravings With PureBalance™ Serotonin

PureBalance™ Serotonin is a high-quality serotonin supplement that can help reduce sugar cravings. This vitamin elevates your mood and increases emotions of contentment, resulting in fewer sugar cravings.

More serotonin in your brain can make you feel happier, less anxious, and calmer. This supplement contains 5-HTP, a chemical component of serotonin molecules. Your brain requires this component to increase serotonin.

PureBalance™ Serotonin also contains Rhodiola Rosea, a natural herb in chilly climates worldwide. This herb helps your body healthily respond to stress, allowing you to resist frustration and relax more easily.

Managing Sugar Cravings

With all the harmful effects of excessive sugar in our bodies, curbing sugar cravings is essential.

We can reduce sugar cravings by improving our diet, balancing blood sugars, prioritizing sleep and managing stress, and supporting our bodies with vitamins.

We should avoid artificial sweeteners, processed foods, and high sugar consumption. Taking the supplements mentioned above can help stabilize blood sugar levels.

The human transformation from male to female is now more open than ever. In fact, according to research, many people are going looking for hormone therapy for their transition. Of 100,000 people, at least 390 to 460 seek gender dysphoria, with a higher frequency of trans women than trans men.

For many transgender persons, living with a public character that doesn’t reflect their inner identity is a daily struggle. That is why most of them decide to choose their true gender identity by gender transitioning.

The transition process has many facets and is a very personal experience, but you’ll find all your answers on male-to-female transgender surgery in this post. Keep going!

What is Male to Female Transformation?

Changing one’s gender presentation or sex features to match one’s internal sense of gender identity is known as gender transitioning.

So, a male-to-female transition is a form of gender transitioning. Though born with male genitalia, some people tend to develop feminine physical changes to their bodies, and their behavior tends to be similar to female behavior.

The transformation involves social, hormonal, and surgical aspects that are different from one person to the other. However, here we’ll focus on male-to-female surgery.

Male To Female Surgery

The exact steps that you take depend on what feels suitable for you. Some people take only one step, while others take multiple actions. In general, transitioning takes time: it can take years before someone feels comfortable living as their true self.

The first step is to see a therapist specializing in gender identity issues. It is typically an endocrinologist (a doctor who specializes in hormones). The doctor will explain the available medical options for you and help you decide which path is right for you.

They will help you decide if you want to change your sex. They will help you figure out what kind of surgery you want and how best to get it done.

So, doctors break down the process of transitioning from male to female into three stages:

• Hormone therapy, including estrogen and anti-androgen medications
• Surgical procedures to remove the penis and create a vagina and labia (the outer lips of the vagina)
• Physical: Voice training, hair removal, and other body contouring cosmetic procedures

Hormone Therapy

You can start the medical process of transitioning from male to female by seeing a doctor who will prescribe hormone therapy. It is a long process, and it takes time to do it properly. It can be a complex procedure and involves multiple steps over an extended period.

It involves taking estrogen and anti-androgen medications. Some people also choose to undergo surgery or other procedures. However, these steps are not required for everyone who transitions from female to male.

Gender Reassignment Surgery

Up to 75% of people who transition to a different gender never have surgery. For some, it’s a financial issue: surgical procedures can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and insurance coverage varies. On the other hand, hormone therapy is often adequate to alleviate feelings of gender dysphoria in many people.

Surgery is an option in circumstances where hormones alone aren’t enough. However, it is a significant and irreversible decision depending on the surgery. Both patients and surgeons must be sure that this is the best option.

Now, what is Gender reassignment surgery (GRS)?

GRS also gender affirmation surgeries involve a series of procedures that alter a person’s physical appearance and function to match their internal gender identity

Therefore, once you have decided on an operation, your surgeon will start performing the surgeries which involve:

• Mastectomy — removing your breasts — and constructing new ones using tissue from other parts of your body (called breast augmentation).
• They will also create a vagina using skin grafts from other areas of your body, like the thigh or forearm. The testicles and most of the penis is removed, and the urethra is cut shorter. A portion of the skin is used to create a mainly functioning vaginal opening. The doctors use Parts of the penis can be used to construct a “neo clitoris” that provides sensitivity.
• The surgeon will then give you hormones to help feminize the rest of your body.

FAQs

Are there risks of Transitioning from Male to Female?

Gender reassignment surgery, like all surgeries, has dangers. Complications for men transitioning to women may include:

• Skin tissue death, especially in the vagina and vulva, usually from the penis and scrotum.
• Narrowing of the urethra can impede urine flow and cause kidney injury.
• Fistulas, or improper connections between the bladder or bowels and the vaginal canal, are common complications.

How is Life after Transitioning?

Fewer than one in a hundred persons regret having genital reassignment surgery. That isn’t to say they don’t require continued assistance. They may need counseling and follow-up medical care to address common concerns such as depression and anxiety.

Can Surgery Alone Help to Transition One from Male to Female?

No, surgery can only help change someone’s sex. This surgery is called Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS). There are different types of SRS procedures. Some surgeries only change the external genitalia, while others may also include internal organs like breasts, ovaries, and uterus in female to male surgery and vice versa. So, to change entirely, hormonal therapy is essential.

What are the Costs of MTF?

Male to female surgery cost is expensive. Bottom procedures can cost around $25,000, while the top (breast surgeries) can cost anywhere between $7,800 and $10,000. Body and facial sculpting are also expensive. At least some gender reassignment surgeries are now covered by more workplace insurance policies, including those marketed under the Affordable Care Act.

Liposuction is a perfect way to contour your body and get the perfect figure. However, there are some steps before and after surgery to ensure you have the best possible results.

Here are some tips for getting the perfect body with liposuction.

Are you a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

If you are considering liposuction, you must first consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to find out if you are the right candidate. A few factors will be considered, including skin elasticity, body type, and the amount of fat that needs to be removed.

Liposuction can help to contour the body and improve self-esteem, but it is not a weight-loss solution. Ultimately, the best way to decide if you are a good candidate for such is to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon.

Find an Experienced Surgeon

When it comes to surgery, you want to ensure you are in good hands. Ask around for recommendations once you’ve found a few surgeons that look promising and schedule consultations with each of them. This will allow you to ask questions and get a feel for their bedside manner.

Be sure to also ask about the surgeon’s experience with your specific condition. You want to make sure they are well-qualified to handle your case. With a little research, you can find the right surgeon to give you the care and peace of mind you need.

Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Your Expectations

Once you have found a reputable surgeon, it is time to schedule a consultation. This is an important appointment because it will allow you to discuss your goals and expectations with the surgeon. Ask questions about the procedure.

Ask about the surgeon’s experience level and success rate. This will help you better understand what to expect from the procedure. After the consultation, you need some understanding of whether or not liposuction is right for you.

Prepare for the Surgery by Following All of the Instructions From Your Doctor

If you have decided to move forward with liposuction, the next step is to prepare for the surgery. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions. Follow all of the instructions carefully to ensure a successful surgery and recovery.

Some of the things you may be instructed to do include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and eating a healthy diet.

Recover From the Surgery According to Your Doctor’s Instructions

When you have liposuction surgery, follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery. That helps you heal properly and avoid complications.

Once you are home, you will need to rest and take it easy for a few days. You can wear compression garments to help reduce swelling.

Liposuction FAQs

How Does Liposuction Work?

Liposuction is typically performed on areas of the body resistant to diet and exercise, such as the thighs, hips, stomach, and arms.

The surgeon makes an incision, and a tube called the cannula is inserted. The tube breaks up the fatty tissue and suctions it out of the body.

Liposuction can be performed using either local or general anesthesia.

Who Is a Perfect Candidate for Liposuction Surgery?

The best candidates for liposuction surgery are generally healthy adults within 30 pounds of their ideal weight. They should also have specific areas of fat that they would like to target, such as the thighs, stomach, or arms.

If you are considering liposuction surgery, you must consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.

What Are the Risks Involved in Liposuction?

While it can be an effective way to reduce excess body fat, some risks are involved. For example, liposuction can cause bruising, swelling, and pain. In addition, it can lead to numbness, infection, and blood clots.

The most serious liposuction complication is a fat embolism, which occurs when fat enters the bloodstream and lodges in the lungs. Although rare, a fat embolism can be fatal.

As with any surgical procedure, liposuction carries certain risks. However, these risks can be minimized by choosing a reputable surgeon and following all post-operative instructions.

How Can I Prepare for My Liposuction, and What Can I Expect Afterwards?

If you are considering liposuction, working with a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience performing the procedure is important. Your surgeon assesses your goals and performs a physical examination to determine if you are a good candidate for liposuction.

A few things are necessary before the procedure.

• First, obtain any necessary laboratory tests or imaging studies.
• Stop any medications or supplements that may increase your risk of bleeding.
• In addition, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.
• After the liposuction procedure, expect some bruising and swelling. These side effects will typically resolve within two to three weeks. You should also expect some temporary numbness in the treated area.

Enjoy Your New Body!

Liposuction is excellent in improving your appearance and boosting your confidence. And if you’re looking for liposuction options in Miami, FL, you’re in luck. Whether you’re looking for traditional liposuction or a more innovative approach like laser liposuction, you can be sure to find a qualified surgeon in Miami.

Many think physical therapy only benefits patients recovering from an injury or surgery. However, it can be helpful in many circumstances. Whether you have just given birth, reached a certain age, or have unexplained pain in your body. Physical therapy may be just what you need to improve your muscular strength, coordination, and balance, which will contribute to a better quality of life as a result.

How do you know it’s time to see a physical therapist? These 7 common signs may tell you:

1.  You Feel Sharp Pain

Dull pain may be manageable for a while, but sharp pain is a different story. Not only is it extremely uncomfortable, but it’s also a sign of severe issues such as a pulled muscle, stress fracture, or torn ligament. If you experience sharp pain that doesn’t disappear after a few days, you should consider physical therapy. A physical therapist can identify the underlying injury and develop a treatment plan to help the affected body part heal.

2.  You Feel Constant Pain

Just because dull pain is not that unpleasant, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t address it, especially if you’ve been experiencing it for a long time. Of course, you know your body best. If the pain occurs right after an intense workout and goes away, it may not be a cause for concern. But you need to ensure it doesn’t persist. The worst thing you can do is learn to live with the pain and not deal with it for months or years. Dull, throbbing pain that keeps recurring is a telltale sign of chronic injury. In this case, you need to see a physical therapist who can help identify the underlying issue and develop a treatment plan to address it.

3.  Your Daily Activities Cause Discomfort

Discomfort while performing routine daily tasks is one of the signs you need physical therapy. Therefore, you need to listen to your body and not dismiss signs that seem unusual. A swollen knee or back pain should not be normal when you are just trying to get on with your day, and you definitely should not settle for reduced mobility. Sometimes, all you need is an ergonomic workstation. Other times, your body signals that you may have an injury to address. A physical therapist can assess your condition and advise you on the lifestyle changes you need to be able to carry out your activities without pain and discomfort. Moreover, treating neck pain with physical therapy is very effective and provides results in short time.

4.  Pain Medication Doesn’t Help

Painkillers can do wonders to ease pain after an injury. Your doctor can prescribe the correct dosage for you, and you can also try over-the-counter painkillers to help manage the pain. However, medication is only one step in the healing process and may not be a long-term solution. If you experience persistent pain while taking pain medication, it’s one of the signs you need physical therapy. Exercising despite the pain can be an additional source of problems, as you risk another injury before you properly heal. The best strategy is pain medication combined with physical therapy to recover from the injury, rather than just numbing the pain with medication.

5.  You Have Frequent Injuries

If you have frequent injuries due to your lifestyle or the sports you pursue, physical therapy can help develop effective recovery and prevention strategies. In addition, a personalized exercise program will strengthen your body in all the right places so that you don’t have to give up the sports you love.

6.  You Are About to Have a Baby

Physical therapy in postpartum has countless benefits, especially when dealing with pelvic floor problems or correcting postural changes. However, it can already be beneficial early in pregnancy by encouraging you to stay active and maintain muscle strength and function. By following a personalized physical therapy plan throughout pregnancy, you’ll learn about the changes in your body and the steps you need to take to stay strong as a new mother. This way, you might even dodge some of the problems occurring postpartum.

7.  You Are Preparing for Surgery

If you’re about to have surgery, the best thing you can do is to consult a physical therapist and take part in a so-called prehabilitation program to prepare your body for the procedure you are about to endure. Physical therapy before surgery has proven to be so effective that it may shorten your stay in the hospital or help you avoid surgery altogether. Of course, surgery is sometimes inevitable, but prehabilitation physical therapy can certainly help your body cope with the pain better and faster.

Summary

These 7 signs are the most common reasons to see a physical therapist, but you know your body best. If you notice that something is not quite right with your muscles, posture, or mobility, it can be helpful to see a professional. Sometimes small changes to your routine can help; other times, you will need a thorough exercise plan. A physical therapist is trained to assess your body’s performance and can develop a personalized exercise program to help you stay active in your daily life.

Dr. Alexandra Chaux is a physical therapist with a focus on postpartum physical therapy, physical therapy for seniors, as well as for breast cancer patients. In addition to manual therapy, exercises, and neuromuscular re-education, Dr. Chaux offers specialized services, including yoga therapy and hypopressives. The combination of such methods allows for providing the best possible care for your needs. To book an appointment call 805-203-9940 or fill out the online form.

If you are experiencing any of the signs you need physical therapy, or if you have further questions, contact Chaux Physical Therapy at 805-203-9940 or request an appointment online. Dr. Chaux is looking forward to working with you!