Some emerging research suggests that mixing sunscreen and insect repellent on your skin at the same time may cause your body to absorb more of the DEET in most repellents. To play it safe, keep bugs away by spraying repellent on clothes rather than mixing with sunscreen on your skin, says Dr. David Schlessinger, medical director of Schlessinger Eye & Face clinic of Woodbury, New York. Test a small area of the fabric first to make sure it doesn't stain.
-Better Homes and Gardens, May 2009
Heat or Cold: Which to Use?
Actually, heat and cold are both important components of recovery following an injury, but it's important to understand which to use and how to achieve maximum benefit. Remember these general rules when considering whether to apply ice or heat:
Applying Ice Properly
WHEN: Ice or gel packs are the first choice of care during the first 48-72 hours following injury.
HOW: The application of ice directly to an injured or painful area of the body can be quite a shock at first. To avoid this, apply the ice pack as follows: Apply the ice, or gel pack over a towel which will allow for a gradual cooling and more comfort. Place the towel under hot (but not scalding) running water, wring out the excess water and place the towel on the affected area.
FREQUENCY: Each application of ice/gel packs should be 20-30 minutes, with 3-5 applications per day.
WARNINGS: Never apply ice for longer than 30 minutes at a time, and not at all if the injured party is suffering from any of the following: frostbite, areas of decreased sensation, Raynaud's disease, severe circulation problems, rheumatoid or gouty arthritis, or a worst-case scenario such as coma. Also do not use chemical ice bags that require shaking or have to be struck to be activated. Shaking and striking these bags may result in leakage of the active chemicals. The chemicals are usually caustic and may result in burns or other injuries.
Applying Heat Properly
WHEN: Moist heat may be applied 48-72 hours after injury. Heat increases circulation by dilating blood vessels and letting more blood into the area.
HOW: Moist heat provides more soothing relief than dry heat. Gel packs, hot towels, hot baths, hot showers, whirlpools, steam saunas, and moist heating pads are examples of heat with moisture.
FREQUENCY: Each application of moist heat should be 20-30 minutes, with 3-5 applications per day.
WARNINGS: Never apply moist heat for longer than 30 minutes. Never sleep on a heating pad.
(Arlington, Va.) -- In light of a new survey showing that chiropractic spinal manipulation is the top-rated treatment for people suffering with back pain, patients should consider a consultation with a doctor of chiropractic, says the American Chiropractic Association.
The Consumer Reports Health Rating Center released the survey results of more than 14,000 Americans on April 6.
The survey rated doctors of chiropractic as the top practitioner, with survey respondents noting that they were more likely to be “highly satisfied” with the care received from their doctor of chiropractic (59 percent) than their primary care physician (34 percent).
“For the treatment of back pain, few options are better than chiropractic,” says ACA President Glenn Manceaux, DC. “As shown in this latest survey, chiropractic spinal manipulation is an evidence-based and effective treatment for low-back pain and other musculoskeletal injuries. Coupled with the high-levels of patient satisfaction, patients should turn to chiropractic as their first choice.”
