Breast Selfexam Techniques

Regular breast self-examinations can go a long way in early detection of breast cancer. Women over the age of 18 should perform regular breast self-exams to ensure overall health. Even if you are too young for a mammogram, you can still help yourself by performing a self-examination once a month.

Schedule it In

Regular breast exams don't work if they aren't done regularly. Follow these tips for remembering to examine yourself:

- Put it on your calendar or in your day planner. If you don't want others to see your reminder, you can always abbreviate it "BSE" for discretion.

- Schedule it with something else. If you color your hair once a month, try to remember to perform your breast self-exam on the same day you recolor your hair. Or do it every time you pay your bills, or every time you get your hair cut.

- Check yourself in the shower. This can be an easy way to remember regular exams if you make it part of your morning routine once a month. Try choosing the same day every month so you don't forget.

Procedure to Follow

Breast self-examinations may seem fairly self-explanatory, but you should follow a specific pattern for your exam to be effective. Use these tips:

- An exam should come in two parts: looking and feeling.

- For the "looking" portion of the exam, stand topless in front of a mirror. Hold your arms at your sides and examine yourself. Then raise your arms over your head and do it again. Look from both sides as well.

- For the "feeling" portion of your exam, lie on your back (or you can remain standing). Put one arm over your head and feel that breast with your opposite hand.

- During the exam, keep your fingers together and flat. Press on your breast, but not too hard. Make sure you cover the entire breast during your exam; you can do this by moving systematically in a circular or linear pattern across the breast.

What to Look For

When you examine your breast, you are looking for signs of possible cancer or other problems.

- During the visual portion of the exam, look for redness, puckering or bumps.

- When feeling your breasts, feel for lumps and bumps. You should also take note of any swelling, pain, flaking skin or nipple discharge.

- If you notice any of these symptoms, make a note of it (and the area on your breast where you felt it) and tell your doctor as soon as possible.

Tags: your breast, once month, your exam, your hair, every time, every time your, examine yourself

Postop Breast Reduction Problems

Post-Op Breast Reduction Problems

While breast reduction surgery is considered relatively safe if performed by qualified surgeons, it is still an invasive procedure, meaning that it comes with its share of risks, including some that aren't present until after the surgery. These can include some serious ones, such as breast asymmetry, fat necrosis, blood clotting and breastfeeding problems. However, four common risks associated with breast reduction surgery are scarring, numbness, nipple loss and infection, according to mamashealth.com.

Scarring

According to losangelesbreastreduction.com, the amount of scarring after breast reduction surgery depends on the patient and the type of procedure performed, as not everyone heals in the same way and every procedure is different. However, some scarring is guaranteed in surgeries that involve removal of excess skin. Most surgeons try to make as few incisions as possible and use dissolving sutures to reduce visible scarring, but some women inevitably retain signs of the surgery even years later.

Nipple/Breast Numbness

While numbness is a common post-operative experience for a few weeks, some women continue to experience breast and/or nipple numbness indefinitely due to nerve damage or loss of circulation. On the other hand, some women experience extra sensitivity in their nipples after surgery because nerves that were once stretched out when breasts were larger end up being tighter afterward.

Nipple Loss

Occasionally, when one or both nipples lose sensation after a breast reduction surgery it can mean that circulation has been completely cut off, causing the nipples to effectively "die" and an open wound to form. Some women heal on their own, but others require corrective surgery, such as having an artificial nipple tatooed onto the breast or added by means of a skin graft.

While this can happen to anyone, women with particularly large breasts and smokers are more likely victims. Anyone who smokes is advised to give up cigarettes at least a few weeks prior to surgery to reduce chances of nipple loss.

Infection

Any time surgery is performed an infection is possible because the body has been opened up to a host of external bacteria. Anyone getting breast reduction surgery should heed the advice of a medical professional regarding post-operative care.

Tips for Faster Healing

According to smartplasticsurgery.com, ways to help speed up recovery include:

• Apply ice packs to the chest on the day of surgery.

Do not sleep on your stomach for at least two weeks after surgery.

Eat properly and stay hydrated.

Moisturize the breasts every day but avoid applying lotion to areas that have been taped over.

During the first week after surgery, do not bend over, exercise or do anything that could increase pressure on to the chest.

Do not take showers or baths until after the drains have been removed.

Wear loose clothing.

Tags: breast reduction surgery, reduction surgery, after surgery, after breast, after breast reduction, breast reduction, breast reduction

Postmenopause Facial Hair

You've always wanted a lot of hair---but on your head, not on your face or other parts of your body. Menopause can be a dicey time when it comes to hair. You may find the hair on your head thinning and even falling out while, simultaneously, you're sprouting a beard. Post-menopause facial hair results from hormonal fluctuations and deficits. The female hormones estrogen and progesterone as well as the male hormone testosterone, also present in women, no longer function as a team. The hormone levels can get too high or too low, resulting in various symptoms, including the growth of facial hair.

Estrogen Therapy

Some women opt for hormone replacement therapy while going through peri-menopause as well as during full menopause. This involves taking estrogen alone or estrogen and progestin, or synthetic progesterone. Many women have found great relief from their various menopausal symptoms, including the havoc that menopause wreaks on hair, by opting for hormone therapy. However, estrogen hormone replacement involves big risks, including the development of cardiovascular disease and breast cancer. You must weigh the risks against the benefits and decide for yourself if you're willing to go this route.

Testosterone Therapy

Menopausal women sometimes receive testosterone therapy if estrogen therapy hasn't reduced their menopause symptoms. Doctors prescribe testosterone particularly for women who have no sex drive, according to MayoClinic.com (see references). However, taking testosterone can result in facial hair growth as well as acne. In addition, a woman's voice may get deeper and she may experience personality changes or become moody. Liver problems can also result as well as clitoral enlargement. So once again, you have to weigh the pros against the cons and decide for yourself which is the lesser of two potential "evils."

Terminal Hair

Women develop terminal hair under their arms (axillary) and in the pubic region after they go through puberty. This is the result of male hormones, according to CNN.com (see references). Before puberty, we possess a thin, fine facial hair called vellus hair. Sometimes, terminal hair replaces vellus hair on the face. This can happen any time a woman's hormones are out of sync. But it's likelier in an older, menopausal woman because of the lack of estrogen. Optimal estrogen levels ward off facial and body hair growth produced by testosterone. Because estrogen levels are no longer optimal in menopause, the effects of testosterone can become too pronounced.

Don't Be Surprised

During menopause, don't be surprised if you find that you're developing more hair on your face. This is the natural outcome when the ratio between androgens, or male hormones, and estrogen changes. Facial hair increases fairly commonly in menopausal women. You're not alone. If you have a genetic propensity toward being hairy, your problem may be even more severe.

Undergo Testing

CNN.com recommends that you undergo thorough testing to find out the cause of your facial hair growth. Your doctor can determine your testosterone levels. The hair growth may be the outcome of menopause and nothing else, or could be an indication of something else that's going on. Some over-the-counter medicines can cause hair to grow on the face, such as DHEA, taken to build muscle and increase libido. Provide your physician with a complete history, and list all the medications you're taking, including vitamins and supplements.

Tags: facial hair, hair growth, decide yourself, estrogen levels, face This, facial hair growth

Configure A Wireless Broadband Access

Wireless broadband access removes the clutter of broadband network cables in the home or office.

Wireless broadband Internet, or WIFI, enables people to enjoy broadband connection on PCs or laptops without running network cables all over the house or office. A way you can set up wireless broadband access is by configuring a wireless router, which takes the place of a broadband USB modem. A wireless router allows you to connect more than one PC to a single wired or wireless broadband connection at a time.

Instructions

1. Choose a wireless broadband service provider. The service provider should ideally provide a complete broadband package, including preconfigured wireless routers and cable or USB modems that enable the wireless functionality. Some modern PCs come with built-in wireless routers. You may need to purchase a wireless router separately if your PC does not have a built-in wireless router.

2. Connect an external wireless router to your computer. Plug one end of the network cable that comes with your wireless router into the "Internet," "WAN" or "WLAN" port on your wireless router, and then plug in the other end into the USB cable or network card.

3. Plug in your cable or USB modem into your computer, and after a while plug in and turn on your wireless router. The Internet, WAN or WLAN status light on your wireless router will turn on, indicating that your wireless modem is connected.

4. Type the router configuration address in the address bar of your Internet browser to access your router administration control panel. You may need to first enter an admin username and password supplied by your broadband provider. The router configuration address can be found in the router manual included in the router purchase box or on the set-up CD that arrives with your modem. Click the "Search" button or press "Enter" on your PC keyboard to view your router's admin configuration screen.

5. Enter your wireless network name (referred as the SSID), your wireless encryption (WEP) or Wi-Fi protected access (WPA), which helps protect your wireless network; and enter your administrative password, which controls your wireless network. You may initially leave the other configurations in default status.

6. Click the "Apply," "OK" or "Save Settings" button, depending on your router make and model to save the wireless broadband access configurations. You are now set up for wireless broadband access.

Tags: wireless router, your wireless, your wireless router, broadband access, wireless broadband access

Breast Cancer Charities & Organizations

Breast Cancer Charities & Organizations

The Centers for Disease Control say that breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, after non-melanoma skin cancer. Nearly 200,000 people (mostly, but not exclusively, women) were diagnosed with it in 2005 (the last year of available statistics). Thankfully there are many organizations ready to help people facing this dreadful disease.

Walk For the Cure

Visit the Susan G. Komen For the Cure site for breast cancer information and ways to help. They sponsor popular runs and walks to raise awareness and funds.

Breast Cancer Research Foundation

This group is focused on finding a cure and preventing the disease.

Consumer Action

Breast Cancer Action works as a consumer and public health advocate examining potential causes of breast cancer and working to remove them from products.

Gateway for Cancer Research

The Gateway for Cancer Research's Breast Cancer charity devotes all of its money to research for a cure.

Tips

All of the charities and organizations listed above are legitimate and have good scores from charity ratings boards.

Tags: Breast Cancer, Cancer Research, breast cancer, Breast Cancer Charities, Cancer Charities, Cancer Charities Organizations, Gateway Cancer

Academic Performance Of Radiologic Technology Students

Aspiring radiology technologists must first complete a specialized academic program.

Students applying to a radiologic technology program must meet certain academic performance requirements. Those already enrolled in a program must fulfill the program's academic standards to graduate.

Admission Requirements

Most radiologic technology programs require students to have a certain level of past academic performance. This is usually based on performance in prerequisite courses and overall grade-point average. For example, Louisiana State University requires a grade-point average of 2.5 or higher in prerequisite courses for admission. Each radiologic technology program varies; therefore it is advisable to consult with the applicable admissions department.

Graduation Requirements

For students to be eligible for graduation, they must fulfill specific academic benchmarks. These usually include completing specific courses related to radiologic technology, as well as some general education requirements. Students also have to meet the program's grade-point average requirement. For example, the University of Montana requires a grade-point average of at least 2.75 to graduate.

Academic Integrity

If a student is caught cheating she will more than likely be punished. Academic dishonesty may be in the form of copying another student's written work without permission, according to University of Montana. Assignments submitted without properly citing references is considered plagiarism and prohibited.

Tags: grade-point average, radiologic technology, academic performance, must fulfill, prerequisite courses, program must, radiologic technology program

Find Out If Someone Is A Convicted Felon

Find out if Someone Is a Convicted Felon

Whether you are hiring someone for a job or need to find out about him or her for personal reasons, a criminal background check is an important investment of your time or money. You can find out if someone is a convicted felon by either paying an online service or doing the leg work yourself.

Instructions

1. Know that perusing county criminal records is the best way to find out if someone is a convicted felon, if you are willing to travel and you have the history of the person's residencies. Most county records go back 7 years, and include state police arrest records, suspended sentences, dismissals, probation and incarceration records. You will need the person's last name, first name and middle initial (if available). If you also know the birth date and Social Security number, you will have better results. The problem with this approach is that you may have to visit every county the person has lived in.

2. Explore an online federal court docket system called PACER that is offered in U.S. District Courts. Not every court has this system. It does not go back as far as county records, and the information is not as complete. Some courts do not have access terminals, so you will have to submit a request to a clerk and wait a few days for the results.

3. Be forewarned that statewide criminal records are usually incomplete, because not all court records are registered. Some allow online access and others require a written application and a possible fee. Check the state's official website for information.

4. Consider online databases; they are sometimes, free but the information is less detailed and may not be current. Popular sites include SearchSystems.net, eFindOutTheTruth.com and Intelius.

5. Find out as much as you can on the individual beforehand. Having the correct spelling of a name is important, as well as any other names the individual may go by, including maiden names. Birth dates and Social Security numbers will narrow the search. And of course, the history of where the individual has lived is important. To find where an individual has lived, you can search dmv.org.

Tags: Convicted Felon, convicted felon, county records, criminal records, Find Someone

Insurance Companies & Medicare Offset

The Medicare health insurance program works with a range of insurance providers in fulfilling the benefit coverages offered through Medicare's program. Billing errors on the part of Medicare or on the part of care providers may result in overpayments on services rendered. To correct for billing errors, Medicare offsets encourage insurance companies and health care providers to refund any overpayments made.

Medicare Overpayments

Under the Federal Claims Collection Act of 1966, Medicare contractors must take action to recover overpayments in the amount of $10 or more made to insurance companies and health providers, according to NHIC Corp., a Medicare contractor agency. Under the law, an overpayment is considered as a debt to the United States government. Regulations put in place by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services require contractors to follow payment recovery procedures. In cases where an insurance company or service provider fails to refund an overpayment amount, Medicare offsets provide one method for recovering overpayment amounts.

Medicare Offset

As part of the billing process, contractors are required to notify insurance companies or providers and request a refund when an overpayment appears on their account. After 30 days of nonpayment, any overpayment amount begins to accrue interest charges, according to NHIC Corp. After 40 days of nonpayment, contractors initiate the payment recovery process using Medicare offsets. Medicare offsets affect current and future payments or reimbursements due to insurance companies. In effect, the overpayment amount is deducted from current and future payments due for services rendered by health providers. Once a Medicare contractor initiates an offset, payments will be affected until the overpayment amount is recovered.

Medicare Offset Methods

Insurance companies and health-care providers -- or debtors -- can handle a Medicare offset notification in one of two ways. Debtors can request an immediate offset of an overpayment amount by submitting a standard offset request form. This is known as a debtor-requested immediate offset. Once they have received this request, Medicare contractors begin offsetting any current or future payments due. The other option -- known as a contractor-initiated offset -- involves taking no action on the debtor's part and the contractor will initiate offset procedures according to the standard timetable. In the case of a contractor-initiated offset, overpayment amounts will accrue interests costs every 30 days.

Offset Appeal Process

Under the Social Security Act, insurance companies and health-care providers have certain rights when it comes to appealing a Medicare offset claim. Also known as a limitation of recoupment, the Social Security Act places certain limitations on Medicare contractors once a case enters the appeal process. According to NHIC, Corp, appeals can move through two different levels, known as the redetermination and reconsideration levels. The limitation of recoupment requires Medicare contractors to delay offset procedures for 41 days once a case enters the redetermination level and 76 days once a case enters the reconsideration level. Throughout the appeal process, interest costs on overpayment amounts continue to accrue.

Tags: overpayment amount, Medicare contractors, Medicare offsets, case enters, current future, current future payments

Women With Large Breasts & Breastfeeding Problems

Most breast feeding challenges are unrelated to breast size.

Women with larger breasts often face unique challenges when breastfeeding, such as finding a comfortable position and discovering ways to nurse in public discreetly. However, simply having larges breasts does not lead to trouble with producing milk or the process of breastfeeding.

Significance

Breast size is based on the amount of fatty tissue in the breast, which is unrelated to the process of producing milk notes the La Leche League, a mother's cooperative. A woman's breast size does not interfere with milk quality or quantity and most large-breasted women are able to breast feed successfully.

Considerations

Women with large breasts must find a comfortable position for them and their baby for successful breast feeding. Women may choose to place a folded blanket or small pillow under a breast for support, hold their breast, with fingers gently lifting from underneath and the thumb on top for support, while the baby nurses or nurse lying down.

Warning

Large breasted women who have trouble breastfeeding or concerns about breastfeeding techniques should talk to a lactation counselor or medical professional for tips, techniques and advice on breastfeeding.

Tags: breast feeding, comfortable position, producing milk, Women with

Signs & Symptoms Of Thyroid Tumor

A thyroid tumor is a growth of excess cells that appears on the thyroid gland. A thyroid tumor can be cancerous or non-cancerous. The condition is normally diagnosed by your doctor using a physical examination, a blood test and a biopsy of the lumps that normally appear on the neck for a thyroid tumor.

Lumps

A thyroid tumor has the potential to create a series of noticeable lumps. One of the areas where you may find a lump associated with a thyroid tumor is in the front of your throat, around the area of your Adam's apple. You may also notice swollen lymph nodes on the base of your neck. These may seem similar to the swollen nodes you get when you have the flu.

Neck Pain

A thyroid tumor may make using your throat painful, or you may notice a pain in your neck that does not go away. You may find it difficult to swallow, and you may also feel pain when you try to breathe through your mouth. Your throat may start to feel raw and raspy, and your voice may become hoarse. If the condition is allowed to advance without treatment, it may become difficult to talk.

Cough

A cough is often a symptom for many different conditions, but it can also be a tell-tale sign of a thyroid tumor. You may develop a cough that initially seems harmless, but as the condition advances, the cough will become more prevalent and can become chronic. It could develop into a dry cough that can be very painful if the condition is left to develop without treatment.

Neck Stiffness

Aside from the pain experienced in the neck because of a thyroid tumor, there may be another set of neck symptoms that involve a different sensation. Your neck muscles may become tight and your neck may start to feel very stiff. As the tumor grows, you may feel as though there is something blocking your throat that cannot be resolved.

Treatment

A thyroid tumor and thyroid cancer are unique in their treatment because the primary initiative of treatment is usually surgery to remove the damaged part of the thyroid. Surgery to remove any part of the thyroid because of a thyroid tumor is called a thyroidectomy. In the case of a total thyroidectomy, in which the doctor must remove the entire thyroid to remove the tumor, you may be put on a regiment of radiation treatment to keep the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

Tags: thyroid tumor, thyroid tumor, your neck, your throat, because thyroid, because thyroid tumor

Ultrasound Technician Schools In Florida

Ultrasound uses sound waves to record images.

Ultrasound technicians use high-frequency sound waves to take pictures of the inside of the body. These images help doctors determine the presence of cysts, tumors and other abnormalities. Ultrasound technicians need specialized training to use scanning equipment properly and take high-quality images. Several ultrasound technician schools in Florida provide the training necessary to begin a career in this field.

Broward College

Broward College offers two ultrasound technician programs. The certificate program takes 13 to 14 months to complete, while the associate degree program takes 24 months to complete. The college gives preference to those who have completed a radiological technology program, but also considers physical therapy professionals, registered nurses and nuclear medicine technologists. Major courses in both programs include sonography of the circulatory system, abdominal sonography, OB-GYN sonography and small parts sonography. Successful completion of this accredited program allows students to sit for the OB/GYN, abdomen and physics and instrumentation examinations offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

Broward College

Building 41

1000 Coconut Creek Blvd.

Coconut Creek, FL 33066

954-201-7350

broward.edu

Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences

Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences has an associate degree program and a bachelor's degree program for those who want to build a career in ultrasound technology. The associate degree program requires the completion of 41.5 credits of coursework in the diagnostic medical sonography major. These courses include patient care for the health sciences, introduction to sonography and a clinical practicum. Students in this program concentrate on general ultrasound or cardiovascular ultrasound. The bachelor's degree program requires students to complete 27 credits of general education courses and 34 credits in ultrasound coursework. The bachelor's degree program takes approximately 2.5 years to complete.

Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences

671 Winyah Drive

Orlando, FL 32803

407-303-9798

fhchs.edu

Florida Institute of Ultrasound

Florida Institute of Ultrasound offers a one-year ultrasound program that includes abdominal ultrasound, cardiac ultrasound, ultrasound physics, OB/GYN ultrasound and vascular ultrasound. The program also includes CPR training for students. The ultrasound program requires the completion of 104 quarter credits. Students interested in enrolling in this program must have completed a two-year program in allied health, a bachelor's degree with required classes or 48 semester credits with required classes. The required classes for admission include algebra, biology and anatomy and physiology with a laboratory component. Prospective students must also complete a background check and 10-panel drug screen.

Florida Institute of Ultrasound

8800 University Parkway, Suite A-4

Pensacola, FL 32514

850-478-7611

fiuonline.net

Pensacola Junior College

The two-year diagnostic medical sonography program at Pensacola College leads to an associate degree in applied science. Students must complete general education requirements in communications, humanities, social and behavioral sciences, and natural sciences and mathematics. Preliminary requirements also include three credits in physics and four credits in anatomy and physiology. The core course requirements for this program include sonography of the circulatory system, AIDS/OSHA health procedures, principles and protocols of sonography, abdominal sonography, OB/GYN sonography, sonographic physics, sonographic clinic and sonographic practicals.

Pensacola Junior College

1000 College Blvd.

Pensacola, FL 32504

850-484-1000

pjc.edu

Tags: degree program, associate degree, bachelor degree, associate degree program, bachelor degree program, Broward College

The Best Hospitals For Hip Revision

Make sure you get the best surgeons at the best hospitals for your hip surgery.

Hip surgery is a big deal. While hip replacements are quickly becoming more common, they are still fairly invasive and critical to patients' ability to function. No one wants a botched hip-job. Given that hip surgery is elective and planned, don't take chances with any old hospital. Find the best--or at least the best for your region--and know that your hip is in good hands.

Hospital for Special Surgery

New York Magazine and U.S. News & World Report agree that New York City's Hospital for Special Surgery is tops for hips--and orthopedics in general. This small, 162-bed hospital admits just under 12,000 patients a year for specialty surgeries. For U.S. News & World Report, only 152 hospitals nationwide meet its top 10 in any of its 16 specialty categories. Hospital for Special Surgery came in first in the nation for orthopedics.

Mayo Clinic

The Mayo Clinic's excellence should be no surprise to anyone. The clinic's 1,302-bed general hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, is one of the nation's premier research and teaching hospitals. In fact, it ranks in the top 10 of all 16 of U.S. News & World Report's categories. Health Grades' annual Top 50 Hospitals report ranked Mayo Clinic the best hospital in the nation in 2009. Go to Mayo's Rochester, Minnesota, or Phoenix, Arizona, sites to get the best minds in orthopedic medicine to work on your hip.

Massachusetts General Hospital

Go to where the King of Thailand was born to have your hip reborn. Massachusetts General is a nationally acclaimed top hospital in all of US News & World Report's 16 categories of adult medicine and four of their 10 categories of pediatric medicine. The 908-bed teaching hospital has some of the nation's best orthopedic surgeons and engages in constant research and improvement.

Tags: News World, News World Report, World Report, Hospital Special, Hospital Special Surgery, Mayo Clinic

Read A Chest Xray

When testing for respiratory disorders, doctors usually order a chest X-ray to observe the lungs. The images returned from these tests tell the doctor if there is an obstruction, an infection such as pneumonia, or evidence of emphysema from smoking. Reading a chest X-ray involves a clinical background, but some simple observations can be made by patients.

Instructions

1. Hang the images next to each other in front of a bright light. All chest X-ray images have a PA (posterior-anterior) copy and a lateral (sides) copy. By hanging them next to each other you can better see differences between the two images, indicating the position of abnormalities.

2. Compare rib extension with lateral views. When viewing the image of the sides, the ribs should be evenly extended outward. If one set of ribs is extended farther than another, it may be a sign of pleurisy (swelling in the outer membrane of the lungs).

3. Check the size of the lungs. Both lungs are generally the same size. Look for abnormally large swelling in either lung, which indicates infection or inflammation.

4. Detect bone fractures. Chest X-rays are also used to view fractures in the shoulders, ribs, and collarbones. Fractures are visible dark areas on the white bone part of the images.

5. Observe any abnormal growths. In cases of infection like pneumonia, abnormal opaque structures are present in the lungs. These obstructions look like a large mass of circular structures suspended in the lungs.

Tags: chest X-ray, each other, next each, next each other

Plantar Fasciitis Leg Pain

Plantar fasciitis is a foot injury that has many symptoms, which include leg pain, heel pain and swelling.

Identification

Plantar fasciitis is an injury involving inflammation and irritation of your plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue at the bottom of your foot. It could be the result of overuse, running, foot structural imbalance or improper footwear.

Function

Your plantar fascia functions much like a shock-absorbing bowstring, according to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. It supports your foot arch through tension, but if this tension becomes too great, you can cause it to over-stretch or tear.

Leg Pain

People with plantar fasciitis often have a tight Achilles tendon, which can cause leg pain and add additional strain to the plantar fascia. When your plantar fascia is weak, the surrounding muscles are affected as well because they are subjected to additional strain.

Solution

Do simple stretching exercises such as plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, along with flexibility exercises for your Achilles tendon and leg muscles. This will improve the flexibility and strength of your foot while also relieving pain.

Treatments

Other treatments to relieve plantar fasciitis and leg pain include resting, elevating, massaging, use of orthotic shoe inserts, night splints and anti-inflammatory medications.

Tags: plantar fascia, your foot, your plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, additional strain

Invest In Uruguay

The U.S. State Dept. says that the investment climate in Uruguay is positive.

In simple terms, investment is defined as contributing money in order to make money. You could choose to invest in a number of areas, including stocks, land, residential housing and commercial property. Essentially, the ultimate goal is to make a return on the initial investment.

According to the official website of the U.S. Department of State, the investment climate is considered to be a positive one. Furthermore, Uruguay has a strong legal system; foreign and domestic investors are treated equally.

Instructions

1. Visit the official website of the United States Embassy and peruse the "Uruguay: Investment Climate Statement" to become familiar with important investment information.

2. Compose a detailed plan of the areas in which you would like to invest; it is very important that you acquire thorough background information of those areas.

3. Visit the website of Charles Schwab & Co and open a "Managed Account." This will provide you with all of the tools necessary to ensure that the correct investment strategies are undertaken. A financial consultant will be assigned to you in order to ensure that you receive comprehensive financial assistance within the area of international investment strategy.

4. Engage in due diligence; always undertake thorough research, and ensure that you're aware of all of the risks associated with investing in any particular area (your asset managers at Charles Schwab & Co will provide comprehensive advice for you). If you have a realistic set of objectives and you are sensible in your approach, this will increase the probability that you will be successful in your endeavors.

Tags: ensure that, Charles Schwab, investment climate, official website, will provide

Make Lump Charcoal

Lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner than standard briquettes, which are often made with charcoal dust, sawdust and other binders and chemicals. Making your own charcoal is also handy if you have an excess of hardwood you need to get rid of. There are two methods: The indirect produces less smoke and pollutants, requires less skill and produces high-quality charcoal, but is more time-consuming to set up. The direct method is easier to set up and to identify the end point, but also requires more skill to control the burning, and the end point includes the burning of the new charcoal. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Indirect Method

1. Cut a 12-by-10 inch square hole on the side of the 55-gallon steel drum at the bottom. Cut or burn four holes, two on each side of the drum, about 8-inches up from the bottom--large enough to fit the 1/2-inch square rods. Thread the rods through the holes.

2. Cut six holes, about 3/8 inches each, into the bottom of the 16-gallon steel drum to allow gases to escape. This drum is called the "retort." Fill the retort with the chunks of hard wood and place the lid on top.

3. Place wood and kindling in the 12-by-10 inch hole of the 55-gallon drum and start the fire. Place the retort inside the drum, resting it on the rods.

4. Wait for the fire to get really hot and place the lid for the 55-gallon drum on top, propping it open slightly with the small steel bar.

5. Keep an eye on the smoke. You should be burning for about three hours and the smoke should be white, which means that the water, tar and other compounds in the hardwood chunks are being released. Keep the temperature up by occasionally adding wood to fire.

6. Watch for the smoke to stop, which means the gases have been burned out. Pull the rods out to drop the retort into the burned wood and ashes, stopping the flow of air to the charcoal inside.

7. Wait an hour, then lift the retort out of the 55-gallon drum. Wear welder's gloves, as the retort may not be cool enough to handle. Place the retort in dirt and allow it to cool further.

8. After about two more hours, check to see if the retort is cool enough to touch. If so, remove the lid to check the results of your burn. If successful, the hardwood chunks inside should have reduced by about a third, and been converted to lump charcoal.

Direct Method

9. Cut or burn five 2-inch holes in the bottom of the 55-gallon drum. Set the drum atop the four bricks.

10. Place kindling and newspaper at the bottom of the drum. Place the chunks of hardwood in the barrel. Light the fire from the bottom of the drum.

11. Wait for the fire to burn hot, then use a shovel to move dirt or sand underneath the drum, leaving about a 4-inch gap between the top of the dirt pile and the bottom of the drum. This will restrict airflow. Lid the drum, using the small steel bar to slightly prop it open.

12. Keep an eye on the smoke. It should be white, meaning that the water, tar and other compounds are burning out of the wood. The burning should last for about three hours. If you see the smoke begin to slow, bang on the drum to settle the wood. This should help produce more smoke.

13. Watch for blue smoke after about three hours. This means that the wood has become charcoal and is starting to burn. Cut off the airflow to the fire by piling more dirt around the base of the drum. Remove the steel bar from the top and secure the lid. Let it cool for 18 to 25 hours, then dump the charcoal from the drum to pack away or use.

Tags: 55-gallon drum, about three, about three hours, bottom drum, smoke should

A Paramedic'S Hourly Salary Information

Paramedics place IV lines before patients arrive at a hospital.

Paramedics provide life-saving assistance in medical emergencies and transport patients to the nearest hospital or trauma center in an ambulance or helicopter. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has estimated that job opportunities for paramedics and emergency medical technicians will increase by 9 percent from 2008 through 2018.

National Average

Paramedics earned an average hourly wage of $15.38 and an average annual salary of $31,980 as of May 2008, according to the BLS. Paramedic service providers earned a median hourly wage of $14.10 and a median annual salary of $29,330 as of May 2008.

Employer Averages

Paramedics employed by hospitals earned an average hourly wage of $15.73 and an average annual salary of $32,710, and paramedic service providers employed by outpatient facilities earned an average hourly wage of $15.13 and an average annual salary of $31,470 as of May 2008, according to the BLS.

Highest-Paying States

States that paid the highest hourly wages for paramedics are Alaska, Hawaii, Maryland and Oregon, as well the District of Columbia. These places paid paramedic service providers hourly wages ranging from $20.01 to $23.45 and annual salaries ranging from $41,630 to $48,780 as of May 2008, according to the BLS.

Highest-Paying Metropolitan Areas

Metropolitan areas that paid the highest hourly wages for paramedics are the San Francisco area, the Honolulu area and the Olympia, Bremerton and Tacoma areas in Washington. These metropolitan areas paid paramedic service providers hourly wages ranging from $23.45 to $32.99 and annual salaries ranging from $48,780 to $68,620 as of May 2008, according to the BLS.

Highest Job Concentration States

States that had the highest job concentration of paramedics are Kentucky, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and West Virginia. These states paid paramedic service providers hourly wages ranging from $11.30 to $16.05 and annual salaries ranging from $23,510 to $33,390 as of May 2008, according to the BLS.

Highest Job Concentration Metropolitan Areas

Metropolitan areas that had the highest job concentration of paramedics are the Prescott area in Arizona, the Jefferson City are in Missouri, the Ocean City area in New Jersey, the Johnstown area in Pennsylvania and the Anderson area in South Carolina. These metropolitan areas paid paramedic service providers hourly wages ranging from $9.89 to $15.09 and annual salaries ranging from $20,580 to $31,390 as of May 2008, according to the BLS.

Tags: ranging from, 2008 according, hourly wages, service providers, from 2008

Pink Ribbon Events In Wilmington N C

The pink ribbon is a symbol of breast cancer awareness.

Pink Ribbon International is an organization that supports breast cancer awareness and treatment. Pink Ribbon has numerous local chapters across the U.S. and the Pink Ribbon Project organizes a variety of events to raise money and promote awareness. In Wilmington, North Carolina, the Pink Ribbon Project often pairs with the New Hanover Medical Center to organize its events. These events are held in the month of October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Pink Ribbon Breakfast, Luncheon and Dinner

The annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast, Luncheon and Dinner event is held in October. In its 13th year in 2010, it was held at the Holiday Inn Resort on Wrightsville Beach. The event featured author Mary Alice Monroe as a speaker and Jane Faudree as its local artist. Proceeds from this annual event support the Pink Ribbon Comfort Bags Program which provides care packages to women being treated for cancer. Proceeds also support mammograms for low-income women.

Angie's Amazing Race

Angie's Amazing Race is held in honor of Angie Holiday who died of breast cancer in 2006. This annual scavenger hunt is in October. The cost is $25 per person, and the event raises money for the local Pink Ribbon Project.

Tri-Sports

The Tri-Sports 5k race is held in nearby Mayfaire. The second year of this annual event occurred in October 2010. Prizes are given for winning first through third place in the race, and proceeds from the event support the local Pink Ribbon Project.

Annual Pink Chick Parade

Held in October to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this event takes place at the Forum boutiques and restaurants. Sponsors buy 5-foot tall pink chicks for $125, the cost of a mammogram, to join in the parade. The chicks can be customized to honor a loved one. Proceeds help the Pink Ribbon Project.

Tournaments

Open to female members, the Country Club Landfall Pink Ribbon Tournaments take place each year in October and include two events: a tennis tournament and a golf tournament. The Pine Valley Country Club Womens Golf Association tournament and luncheon is also open to all members and, in 2010, took place on October 19 as did the Steel Magnolias Play for Pink Tournament and Awards Banquet, which is open to members of the Magnolia Greens Womens Golf Association.

Tags: Pink Ribbon, Pink Ribbon Project, Ribbon Project, Amazing Race, Angie Amazing, Angie Amazing Race, annual event

Set Up Surround Sound To A Panasonic Tv

Set Up Surround Sound to a Panasonic TV

While a slim profile may complement a television, it generally detracts from the quality of the speakers. Surround sound is the best way to get the most out of television and movie content. Setting up a surround sound system to a Panasonic television isn't hard, but it will require you to have all of the right equipment. Make sure that you have everything you need before you start and setting up will be a cinch.

Instructions

1. Look at the back of your Panasonic television and find an audio output. You need to connect an audio output on your TV to an input on your home theater receiver, so look for a compatible digital connection. Not all Panasonic TVs will offer the same connections, so you'll need to verify what is available. For instance, the Panasonic 42TC-PX1 plasma TV features an optical output. Your best options are digital coax or optical. Be sure that the jack is labeled "out" as opposed to "in".

2. Check your receiver to be sure that it has the same style input as your television.

3. Get the appropriate cable for the connection type that you determined. With your components shut off, plug one end of the cable into the digital output on your Panasonic television and the other end into the input on your receiver.

4. Connect your speakers. Connect each speaker in your surround sound system to the proper, labeled speaker terminals (left, right, and center) on your receiver. Connect one strand of the speaker cable to the positive terminal and one to the negative terminal. Run the opposite cable ends to terminals of like polarity on the speaker and connect accordingly. Connect each speaker this way.

5. Connect the subwoofer (optional) to the LFE or Subwoofer Out terminal on the receiver using an RCA cable.

6. Turn on your television, receiver and subwoofer. Switch the receiver over to the "TV" input that you used to connect the television's audio.

7. Pull up the audio settings menu on your remote control and shut off the Panasonic TV speakers so that the sound is played solely through your surround system. Refer to your television manual for any additional setting changes that may apply.

Tags: input your, Panasonic television, sure that, your receiver, your television

Breast Cancer Myths

Many myths pertaining to breast cancer are floating around. Some of the truths and untruths about breast cancer are hard to discern because of conflicting reports. Some myths have enough fact to them to make them seem true.

Genetics

Myth: Only women with a family history of breast cancer will get breast cancer.

Fact: According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 70 to 80 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

Overweight

Myth: Being overweight does not mean you are at greater risk for breast cancer.

Fact: According to a study at the Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, depending on when in life weight is gained, an overweight woman's chances of getting breast cancer can be up to triple that of a woman who is within a healthy weight range.

Size

Myth: Women with smaller breasts are diagnosed with breast cancer less.

Fact: There is no connection between breast cancer and breast size.

Age

Myth: "I'm too young to have breast cancer."

Fact: According to the University of Michigan, 25 percent of women diagnosed are under the age of 50.

Fatality Rate

Myth: Breast cancer will kill you.

Fact: ACS states that the ten-year survival rate is as high as 80 percent.

Diet

Myth: Breast cancer can be prevented with diet.

Fact: Although what you eat can play a role in the development of cancer, there is not a specific food or vitamin that will prevent or cause cancer.

Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, breast cancer Fact, cancer Fact, cancer Fact According

Viagra'S Effects On Women

Viagra's Effects on Women

What are the Effects of Viagra on Women?

Viagra, a common erectile-dysfunction drug, is wildly popular amongst men who are suffering from sexual dysfunction. The drug also shows some promise for women, although it is not nearly as effective. The major benefit of Viagra, when taken by a woman, is its ability to help her sex organs function properly. This is especially true of women who have lost their sex drive due to antidepressant medications. Unfortunately, however, Viagra isn't always helpful for women with a low sex drive.

How Does Viagra Help a Woman's Sexual Function?

Viagra helps a woman's sexual function in much the same way that it helps a man's. For a woman to become fully sexually aroused she needs a lot of blood flow to her vaginal area. In some women, especially those who are taking certain antidepressants or who suffer from certain physical problems, the body's natural ability to create this blood flow is impaired. Viagra helps to restore this function and to allow a woman to become aroused when she feels the desire to have sex.

Why Does Viagra Help Women Less Than Men?

The reason that Viagra helps women's sexual dysfunction less effectively than it does men's seems to stem from the fact that women will not necessarily desire sex even if they can become aroused. Men, on the other hand, will desire sex as long as they are able to maintain an erection. Because of this, women who have always had a low sex drive or who are having problems with desire that aren't physical in nature, won't be helped by taking Viagra.

Tags: Viagra helps, become aroused, blood flow, Does Viagra, Does Viagra Help, Effects Women, helps woman

Find An Mlt Certification Number

Medical laboratory technicians are laboratory professionals who perform diagnostic procedures in a hospital or freestanding lab facility, according to American Medical Technologists, a trade and certification organization. Medical laboratory technicians work closely with lab managers and medical laboratory technologists to help doctors diagnose illnesses. Medical laboratory technicians usually hold an associate's degree in medical laboratory technology as well as specialty certification. Rely on four kinds of resources to find an MLT certification number.

Instructions

1. Check your certification documents. Look carefully on your medical laboratory technician certificate --- it will have your certification number on it, in bold print. The examination performance report you received after passing the MLT certification exam also contains your MLT certification number, according to the American Society of Clinical Pathology; check the copy you received onsite at the testing facility as well as the copy mailed to your home address by the testing center.

2. Contact the certification body. Whether you received your MLT certification through American Medical Technologists or the American Society for Clinical Pathology, calling the certification body will help you find your MLT certification number. Staff answering telephone lines at American Medical Technologists (800-275-1268) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (800-267-2727) can help you track down your certification number by asking you a few simple questions to verify your identity. Note that both organizations charge a replacement fee if you lost your MLT certificate.

3. Call your state's licensing board. Some states require a state license to practice as well as MLT certification, according to American Medical Technologists, a trade group. Call your state's medical laboratory technician licensing board --- usually part of the state board of health --- and ask for assistance in finding your MLT certification number. States that require licensure for MLTs keep examination scores, certification records and professional history as part of each MLT licensure file. Staff can search your file for your MLT certification number after verifying your identity.

4. Ask your employer. Many employers --- such as hospitals and diagnostic --"

laboratories --- require their lab technicians to hold an MLT certification and usually ask for copies of certification documents as verification. If you have misplaced your certification number, check with your human resources department and ask to view your personnel file. Explain that you need your MLT certification number from the copies they maintain in their files.

Tags: your certification, your certification number, certification number, American Medical, American Medical Technologists, medical laboratory, Medical Technologists

Lose Arm Fat In A Week

An arm that has lost a lot of fat

Fat has no conscience when it comes to the body. When it accumulates on the arms, shirts can fit improperly and regular activities can become more difficult because the fat can weigh the arm down. Losing this fat is never an easy thing to do, especially in a week. But that doesn't mean it's impossible. You just have to be willing to take it to the extreme. With that being said, the way to pull this off is by following a series of steps that involve eating adjustments, lifestyle changes and performing some key exercises that have an emphasis on the arms.

Instructions

1. Clean up your diet. In order to lose weight in your arms, by default you will lose weight in your whole body. This is because there is no such thing as spot reduction. With that being said, you cannot lose weight at all if you eat improperly. Avoid foods that are processed, refined, high in saturated fat and high in sugar. Instead, eat foods that are nutrient-dense such as lean protein, low-fat dairy products, fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and beans.

2. Drink lots of water. Water plays several roles in the body. It helps flush toxins from the system, it keeps you hydrated, it lubricates the joints, it helps metabolize fat and it also does not have any calories. Substitute water for high-calorie beverages such as soda, sweetened teas and coffee drinks. The Institute of Medicine recommends that women consume 2.2 liters a day and men consume 3 liters a day.

3. Perform cardio. In order to lose fat in the arms in one week, you need to do some high- intensity cardio. Perform interval training on three alternating days. A few examples are running, biking, stair-stepping and rowing. Do a 15-minute warm-up, and then alternate bouts of high intensity with low intensity. For example, run all out for 30 seconds, then jog for 60 seconds. Do 15 intervals, and finish with a 15-minute cooldown.

4. Work your triceps. The triceps are on the back of the upper arm, and they are a location where fat often exists. Perform overhead triceps extensions, close-grip push-ups and triceps kickbacks to work this area. Overhead triceps extensions are done by grabbing a dumbbell and holding it on the inside of the handle with your hands on one weighted side. Lift the dumbbell straight above you, then slowly lower it behind your head and lift it back up. Close-grip push-ups are done like a regular push-up, but your hands are close together. Triceps kickbacks are done on a bench. Kneel on the bench and hold a dumbbell in the same hand as your knee. Lean down until your back is about parallel to the floor. Bring your arm up to your side with your elbow bent 90 degrees. Now push the dumbbell straight back until your arm is parallel to the floor.

5. Work your biceps. The biceps are on the upper front part of the arm, and they can be worked by doing barbell curls, incline curls and reverse-grip curls. To do barbell curls, take a shoulder-width grip and curl the bar up until it is about 4 inches away from your chest, then lower it back down. Perform incline curls on an incline bench with dumbbells. Lie on the bench with your arms at your sides and your palms facing in toward your body. Curl the dumbbells up, twist your little fingers inward at the top and then slowly lower them back down. Perform reverse curls the same way as barbell curls except reverse your grip so your palms are facing your body when you start.

6. Put it all together. Do all of your triceps exercises, then all of your biceps exercises in order. Use moderate weights, and do four to six sets of 12 to 15 reps for each exercise. Perform your cardio on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and do your arm exercises s on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. On Sunday, go for a walk or bike ride at a moderate intensity for a minimum of 30 minutes.

7. Don't forget to sleep. In order to fully recover from your hard workouts, it is important to get enough rest. It is during sleep that there are key hormones being released and the building and repairing process takes place. The Centers for Disease Control recommends adults get seven to nine hours a night.

Tags: barbell curls, lose weight, with your, back down, back down Perform, being said

Health Events In Mcallen Texas

In 1904, ranch owner John McAllen established the town of West McAllen in Texas. McAllen joined forces with a group of developers who were cultivating a nearby area of land known as East McAllen and by 1910 several businesses had been built in the town. Over the next few decades, McAllen's population grew, reaching more than 32,000 residents in 1960. In 2011, the population was estimated to be 130,831 on the city of McAllen's website.

Winter Texan Expo and Health Fair

Held every January, the Winter Texan Expo and Health Fair showcase educates visitors on health care. At the 2011 fair, there was advice for diabetics at the Diabetic Solutions stand, guidance for the hearing impaired, a center for pain management and a medical clinic. Health care specialists are on-hand to discuss health problems alongside massage therapists to help ease away any aches or pains. Lasting for two days, the fair takes place at the McAllen Convention Center located on Expressway 83.

Texas Women's Expo

The Texan Women's Expo provides free health screenings and medical seminars to advise and educate women on well-being. The event takes place over two days and is held at the McAllen Convention Center over the last weekend in March. Advice on tooth problems with dental screenings is available as well as nutritional guidance and weight management advice with body mass index readings. Beauty exhibits give free makeovers and haircuts, and treatments such as waxing and threading are also available.

Jalapeño 100 Ride, Run & Walk

Taking place over two days in February, the Annual Jalapeño 100 Ride, Run & Walk allows residents of varying fitness levels to challenge themselves. Five routes are available for participants to walk, run or cycle: 100 mile, 62.5 mile, 50 mile, 25 mile and 12 mile. Each route starts and finishes at the Old Mill Pavilion, Park Fair Boulevard. The first day of the event is for those who want to cycle the course, beginning at 6:30 a.m. with registration at the pavilion. The following day, participants can choose whether they walk or run the same routes. Registration is at 7 a.m.

Golden Age Olympics

Mini golf is one of the activities on offer at the Golden Age Olympics.

The Golden Age Olympics gives men and women over the age of 50 the opportunity to test their fitness levels with a number of sporting activities. Over 30 events are on offer including athletics, billiards, volleyball, mini golf and swimming. The Olympics take place over January and February. In 2011, the event lasted 41 days. Participants need to pre-register a week prior to the Olympics stating which activities they wish to participate in. The event takes place at various parks and community centers around McAllen, including: Las Palma Community Center, Anchor Park, Palm View Community Center and Lark Community Center.

Tags: mile mile, Community Center, Golden Olympics, mile mile mile, place over

Apply For Medicare In Georgia

Medicare is a government-funded insurance program for those over 65.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services administers Medicare. Medicare is a government-sponsored health insurance program, primarily for people age 65 and older. Qualifying individuals are eligible for Medicare at 65, even if they do not receive Social Security benefits. Because Medicare is a federal program, the application requirements and processes are the same in Georgia as in any other state.

Instructions

1. Determine your eligibility. Most people are eligible if they (of their spouses) worked in Medicare-covered employment for at least 10 years and are at least 65 years of age. Those under 65 may qualify if they are disabled or have end-stage renal disease.

2. Set up a visit with your local Social Security office. You can find the office nearest you by going to socialsecurity.gov, choosing "Find a Social Security Office" from the menu and entering your zip code. Social Security offices are also listed in the phone book. You will need a certified copy of your birth certificate and a valid picture identification, such as a driver’s license or Georgia ID card.

3. Apply for Medicare Part A. Part A covers inpatient hospital services and is free to all individuals that meet Medicare eligibility requirements. You or the Social Security agent will complete an application that includes your basic personal information, information on past employment, and information on any private or other public insurance you may have.

4. Select whether you want to purchase Medicare Part B. Part B covers outpatient services such as doctor’s and emergency room visits. Recipients pay a monthly fee for Part B ($110.50 as of 2010). Applying for Part B is as simple as checking a box on the Medicare application.

5. Choose whether to participate in Part D. Part D covers prescription medications. You many choose from one of several Part D plans. A list is available on the Medicare website or by calling your local Social Security Administration office. Once you choose a plan, you may submit a Part D paper application, available on the website. Part D recipients pay a monthly fee.

Tags: Social Security, Part covers, Part Part, Part Part covers, your local Social

Physical Therapy For Shoulder Calcification

Shoulder calcification occurs when calcium deposits form on the various tendons and ligaments within the shoulder capsule, often causing pain, swelling and joint freezing. Depending on the severity of the condition, many patients can benefit greatly from a physical therapy treatment plan under the supervision of a licensed therapist.

Initial Therapy Exercises

According to Orthogate.com, most shoulder calcification occurs on the tendons of the rotator cuff in the shoulder capsule. Initial treatment should focus first on minimizing the amount of inflammation and pain in the joint before moving on to weight-bearing or resistance-assisted exercises in a therapeutic context. Therapists will typically introduce assisted passive stretching techniques for the patient, often focusing most on bending and extending to start. Maintaining the shoulder's natural range of motion is vital to the continued success of therapy, and stretching exercises will also help promote blood flow in the shoulder muscles, which can aid in the healing process. In less severe cases of calcification, some patients may be able to start strengthening exercises early in treatment.

Mid-Therapy Exercises

Therapeutic treatment plans will continue based on the pain and discomfort in the patient, especially when considering the unpredictability of inflammation involved in shoulder calcification. According to Orthogate.com, most therapists will implement modalities such as ultrasound to help further minimize this inflammation while also attempting to break down the calcium deposits in the shoulder. Ultrasound treatments can be continued for up to six weeks for maximum benefit. Weight-bearing exercises focusing on shoulder bending and extension should typically be started a few weeks after the start of therapy in order to strengthen stabilizer muscles surrounding the joint and to minimize muscle atrophy (especially in the event of a surgical procedure needed to remove calcium deposits from the shoulder tendon). Heat and ice treatment will also be continued at this time to further minimize swelling and pain in the joint. Shoulder abduction (lifting the arm to the side of the body) can also be attempted with low weight or resistance.

Discharge and Home Therapy

At the conclusion of a therapeutic treatment plan, patients should typically regain full range of movement within the shoulder joint, including shoulder bending, extension and abduction. Therapists will also normally prescribe a home therapy program for the patient to continue passive stretching and strengthening exercises on his own outside of the therapy clinic.

Tags: calcium deposits, will also, According Orthogate, According Orthogate most, bending extension, calcification occurs, further minimize

Ideas For An Exercise Health Fair

A successful exercise health fair inspires adults to choose a more active lifestyle for themselves and their families. Having a variety of ideas and choices at a health fair is important for reaching the widest audience.

Trainers Help Motivate

Engage participants by having trainers available for demonstrations and consultations. Have high-quality, trainer-created DVDs--geared to different fitness levels--available for purchase. An adult who works out in a gym's weight room, for example, may benefit from an aerobics DVD different from one that's geared to an exercise newcomer.

People Like Choices

Include a variety of exercise equipment. Have demonstrations of the use of stretching bands, exercise balls and cutting-edge equipment. Feature running shoes and exercise clothing to jazz up the event.

Exhibits and Sponsors

Exhibitors that show products or gadgets--such as new exercise shoes or water bottles--help people want to learn more. You'll want your fair to trigger conversation and interaction between attendees and exhibitors. Sponsors can offer raffles and door prizes, such as trial gym memberships.

Handouts

Provide leaflets listing quality exercise websites. Encourage participants to continue their fitness education. Sponsors can develop ongoing relationships with attendees via websites.

Use Pictures to Inspire

Your event should feature "before" and "after" pictures of how exercise improved bodies. To motivate people to lift weights, join an aerobics class or buy home exercise equipment, show them inspiring photos of great outcomes for real people.

Demonstrate Health from Exercise

Provide information that shows how exercise affects health. Have a booth with statistics on such topics as exercise's effects on longevity or improved blood cholesterol levels. Encourage attendees to dedicate themselves to an exercise routine.

Tags: exercise equipment, health fair

Make Flyers For Free

You have an event or product to promote--and no budget. Thankfully, trendy, well-designed flyers are free and fast to produce. Using free software and fonts, it's possible to create great advertising. But because they're printed on a home printer, it's best to limit yourself to quantities under 50, especially if the document is image intensive.

Instructions

1. Make a mock-up flyer to get an idea of design and layout. Decide what the flyer will say. To create copy that's easy to scan and read, it should be planned and edited thoroughly. Doing this at the beginning saves time later in the process.

2. Download and install free software to aid in designing the flyer (see Resources).

3. Find and install free fonts and clip art (see Resources). Look for fonts that are easy to read with a clean design that will print well. Clip art and images should be topical and easily identified.

4. Use your new programs to create the flyer. Experiment with the filters and effects in the libraries. These are especially effective when combined with color printing.

5. Print one copy as a test run to make certain it looks the way you want it to. Many printers have a "Print Options" or "Properties" section that allow you to select a "Quick Print" option. This works well for preview printing.

6. Change the print quality to a higher setting and print the flyers.

Tags: free software, install free, that easy

Kansas Collection Laws

The Kansas attorney general enforces the debt-collection laws established by the state's Fair Debt Collection Practice Act (FDCPA). If a debt collector breaks any laws in Kansas, a debtor has up to one year after the violation occurred to file a complaint with the attorney general's office. Complaints may also be made to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Stopping Contact

A Kansas debtor has the right to ask, in writing, that the debt collector stop contacting her. Once the collector receives the written request, the collector must cease contact with the debtor. Kansas does, however, permit the collector to inform a debtor the collecting agency will no longer contact her or to inform her that a specific action--such as a lawsuit--is being taken.

Debtors should send the written request through certified mail to have proof that the debt collector has received the request. Even though the collection agency is not permitted to contact her, the debtor is still liable for what she owes.

Collecting Methods

Kansas debt collectors may contact a debtor regarding his debt by telegram, fax, mail or telephone between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., according to the Kansas Consumer Protection Division. Collectors may not call a debtor collect or send a telegram or letter at the debtor’s expense. A collector may contact a debtor at his place of employment unless the debtor informs the collector his employer does not approve.

Recovery Laws

Kansas has debt-recovery laws governing bad checks, interest rates, garnishments and judgments. Collectors in Kansas are limited to charging no more than 12-percent interest on judgments regarding a debt. Anyone who writes a bad check to a company, business or organization must pay civil penalties to cover the costs and fees associated with the bad check. Kansas law allows a debtor to be charged a recovery fee up to three times the amount of the original check, which may not exceed $500, but has a minimum recovery fee charge of $100. The debtor must also pay attorney fees a company accrues from trying to recover the funds. Kansas courts may legally request a debtor's employer garnish her wages until her debts have been paid. Garnishment exemptions in Kansas are the same as those provided by federal law, which exempts 75 percent of a debtor’s disposable earnings per week or an amount that is 30 times more than the regular federal minimum wage--whichever is greater of the two.

Tags: contact debtor, debt collector, attorney general, Kansas debtor, more than

Tape Cracked Ribs

Treating Cracked Ribs

Injuries to the ribs produce almost excruciating pain. The difference between a cracked rib and a broken one may be defined only as the difference of pain degree between them. A cracked rib will cause intense pain when sneezing or coughing, taking sudden moves and even breathing. In the 'old days', cracked and fractured ribs were taped in the belief that doing so would increase stability and decrease pain. However, be cautioned that many doctors don't tape or bind ribs any longer because it prevents deep breathing, which can lead to pneumonia or lung collapse. Read the following guidelines to learn treat a cracked rib.

Instructions

1. Make sure what is wrong is a cracked rib. Symptoms of a cracked rib(s) may include mild to severe pain. It may be painful to breathe. If you must wrap the ribs to help relieve the pain, don't wrap too tightly, and remove bindings occasionally to take a deep breath once an hour or so. Strips of cloth or athletic wraps (the kind used to wrap boxer's hands) may be used.

2. Place a strip of binding above the injured rib. Have the injured person exhale as much air as possible, and then, starting on one side of the ribcage, completely encircle the body with the wrap one or two times. You may either tie off the binding (on the uninjured side) or continue using the same length for Step 3.

3. Repeat the wrapping process below the injured rib. Some people use a figure-eight design because it will hold its position better.

4. Visit an emergency room immediately if breathing is at all restricted, as this may lead to shortness of breath and lack of oxygen to vital organs.Cracked ribs may not show up on an x-ray, but a doctor will likely treat the injury as a break. He or she may prescribe a painkiller or suggest over-the-counter pain medications to address pain and discomfort.

5. Be patient. Cracked ribs will heal on their own. They don't have to be taped or wrapped, as mentioned above. Those suffering from a cracked rib must be patient, as it takes around six weeks for a cracked or broken rib to heal. Protect the injured area and give it plenty of rest. The healing process may be facilitated by taking a deep breath once an hour to help keep lungs clear. While this may cause extreme discomfort, it is the best way to prevent lung congestion that leads to pneumonia.

Tags: breath once, breath once hour, cracked broken, Cracked ribs, Cracked Ribs

Employee Drug Testing Policies

Employers have the right to test employees for drug use.

Employees in the United States are not always required to be tested for drug or alcohol use, unless they work in certain specific fields. However, employers have the right to set up a drug-free workplace program and require that all employees follow the policy guidelines established. Any employee who fails to follow a workplace's drug testing policy may be terminated. Both scheduled and random drug testing is allowed.

Purpose

Athletes in Minnesota are required to take drug tests.

The purpose of drug testing policies within the workplace is to create a safe work environment for all employees. Businesses have the legal right to create drug-testing policies and require that all employees follow the policy guidelines. Not all states require drug testing of their employees, and some states only require it if an employee works within a specific field. For example, Minnesota only requires drug testing for professional athletes and those who work in "safety-sensitive positions" such as truck drivers or airline pilots.

The Law

Laboratories must be certified to conduct drug testing.

The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 does not require employers to subject their employees to drug testing; however, employers do hold the right to test their employees for drugs if they choose to. Any federal agency that decides to test its employees for drugs must follow Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) guidelines. The National Laboratory Certification Program is responsible for ensuring that all labs that conduct drug tests on federal employees are properly certified.

Transportation

Truck drivers must take drug tests to ensure safety policies.

Employees who work in the transportation business are required by law to take drug tests to ensure the safety of themselves, their co-workers and other vehicles on the road. Congress passed this law in 1991 under the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is required to test for both drugs and alcohol for anyone working as a school bus driver, a truck driver, for the railroads, in aviation, or any other transportation job, as well as those who work on pipelines.

MRO

Workers who test positive for drug use in the transportation industry may request an interview with a Medical Review Officer (MRO) to explain why the test results were such. An MRO will determine if the drugs in your system have a medical purpose. Employees who test positive also have the option to have their sample sent to another lab for further analysis, but must do so within 72 hours of hearing their initial test results. The MRO will send all final test results to your employer.

Refusal

Employees who refuse to take drug tests can lose their job.

Employers have the right to fire an employee if she refuses to take a drug test after being properly warned that the job policy requires it. Drug testing can be done during the job interview process or randomly while an employee holds the job, as long as the policy makes this clear to all employees. Any employee who signs a form of consent to be tested must follow the guidelines set forth by the employer. Refusal to do so may lead to termination.

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Small Business Insurance Act

The PPACA plans to make major changes to the health insurance industry.

Among other health care reform objectives, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is designed to eliminate insurance company abuses and make health care more affordable. The federal statute was signed into law by President Barack Obama in March 2010. The 974-page document details specific initiatives covering topics such as doctor choice and emergency room access, early retiree reinsurance, appealing health plan decisions, and businesses.

Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act is the portion of the law that cites specific provisions for small businesses. The average small business pays about 18 percent more than large firms do for health care, according to Healthcare.gov. This higher cost is due to the lower volume of policies. The Affordable Care Act changes this dynamic by allowing small businesses to band together to form larger pools, thereby making insurance costs more affordable.

Implementation and Timeline

Key provisions of the PPACA are being implemented over the next five years. Effective in 2011, the new law ensures that at least 80 percent of all premium dollars paid to insurance companies are spent on health care services and quality improvement. If insurance companies do not meet these mandates, then they must rebate the difference back to the consumers. In 2014, Exchanges will act as insurance marketplaces offering small businesses affordable and qualified health plans.

Pre-Exisiting Conditions

Until recently, many people with pre-existing conditions were denied coverage by insurance companies. Under the PPACA, children under the age of 19 may not be denied coverage from health plans -- regardless of whether or not the health issue was discovered before coverage was applied for. For adults who have been previously denied health care coverage due to pre-existing conditions, the PPACA provides the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan.

Small Business Tax Credits

One of the first components to be enacted was the provision for small business health insurance tax credits. Small businesses may be able to receive a credit of up to 35 percent of their contribution for employee health insurance coverage. In 2014, this credit goes up to 50 percent. Special rules apply, such as the average annual wages of the qualifying employee must be below $50,000 and the business must cover 50 percent or more of the health coverage cost.

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Are Cell Phone Conversations Secure

Anyone with the right type of equipment can monitor cell-phone conversations.

According to the Texas A&M Research Foundation, cell phones, which transmit radio signals that disperse in multiple directions, use frequencies that can be monitored by persons in possession of easily obtainable equipment. Still, some cellular technologies are more secure than others.

Analog Systems

Analog cell phones, which incorporate the Advanced Mobile Phone System, or AMPS, transmit conversations over analog signals without the security of scrambling or encryption. Eavesdropping individuals can easily access conversations with the assistance of common radio scanners.

Digital Systems

Digital cell phones transmit encrypted or scrambled messages that are not decipherable by ordinary radio scanners. However, governmental and law-enforcement agencies have equipment capable of monitoring digital communications, and individuals can decipher digital-phone communications with digital-data interpreters, which connect radio scanners to personal computers.

Dual-Mode Phones

Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, a nonprofit consumer organization, suggests that some cellular models employ dual or tri-mode technologies, which allow the phone to use less secure analog transmissions when digital services are not available.

Considerations

To achieve greater security, the consumer group recommends using cell phones and carriers that incorporate digital and encryption technologies, such as Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA).

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Income Requirements For Kentucky Medicaid

Income limits ensure that Medicaid funds reach those who need them the most.

The Medicaid program provides financial aid for individuals who can't afford medical care. The state of Kentucky puts in place income limit requirements, which vary depending on the family size. Deductions might apply to increase this limit by $90 for work expense, and by $200 for child care of family members under two years of age. For child care of family members over two years of age, there might be deductions of $175 for parents with full-time employment or $150 for parents with part-time employment.

Individuals and Families

The monthly Medicaid income limit for an individual after deductions is $217. The limit increases as the household size increases. For example, a family of two has a limit of $267, while a family of eight has a limit of $627. If individuals and families have incomes above the limit but still can't afford medical care, they might still get Medicaid assistance using the spend-down program. With the spend-down program, a person or family can get Medicaid benefits if the medical costs are greater than the amount by which the family income exceeds the limit.

Unemployed Individuals

If an individual or family has low income and has qualified for the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (K-TAP), higher income limits apply. For example, an individual's monthly income limit is $742. The limit for a family of two is $851, and the limit increases up to $1,462 for a family of seven or more.

Pregnant Women

The limit for families with pregnant women and children up to the age of one is 185 percent of federal poverty levels. As of July 2010, the limit for an individual is $1,670. For a family of two, the limit is $2,247. The monthly income limit increases with family size, with a family of eight having a limit of $5,706. Each additional family member after that increases the limit by $577.

Children

For families with dependent children under 19 years of age, the limit is 200 percent of the federal poverty levels. As of July 2010, the limit for an individual is $1,805. The limit increases with family size. The limit for a family of eight is $6,169, and each additional family member after that increases $624 to the income limit.

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