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Practicing Body Neutrality

Posted on Jun 2, 2022Oct 2, 2024 by webadmin

If you’re wondering, “Uh, what’s body neutrality?” then you’re in the right place. At its core, body neutrality is the idea that you can exist without having to think too much about your body one way or another, positive or negative. You can simply exist and be worthy of respect without thinking about your body at all. You can learn more about this idea below, which can help you cope with difficult changes in your body.

Most people want to feel energized and experience a sense of vitality. In the 1970s, Dr. John Travis created a spectrum of wellness, with illness on one side, a point of neutrality in the middle (when a person has no signs or symptoms of disease), and on the other side wellness.

Wellness is a state of health and flourishing beyond simply not experiencing illness. In this state people feel confident, open to challenges, curious, and thirsty for action. They are thriving. People who experience wellness may seek to hike a mountain, read a new book, learn how to play a new instrument, or actively connect with new people.

The most common health conditions facing people today include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. When people are experiencing these (and other) conditions, they fall into the illness side of the spectrum. Lifestyle factors that put you at risk for developing these conditions include smoking, alcohol substance use disorder, lack of exercise, sleep deprivation, and a diet rich in processed foods, sugar, saturated fat, and artificial flavors. An unhealthy weight is another factor that can put one at risk for these conditions, especially carrying extra weight around your midsection.

To move to the wellness side of the spectrum, you can include more movement in your day; enjoy a whole-food (unprocessed), plant-predominant style of eating; avoid smoking; sleep seven to nine hours a night; practice stress reduction techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation, tai chi, and mindfulness; and spend time with family and friends.

Think about what your body can do for you — and what you can do for your body

People of many sizes and shapes can be healthy and well, especially when they are connected to a calm mind that is practicing mindfulness, self-compassion, and a growth mindset. A body that is in the neutral point on the wellness spectrum can move to the side of thriving and flourishing when healthy lifestyle habits are adopted and sustained, and that has little to do with your body’s shape or size.

The body neutrality movement emphasizes the incredible functions, actions, and physiology of our bodies without regard for how our bodies look. We can see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. We can jump, skip, sing, hug, and dance. Our muscles have mitochondria that give us energy.

Our digestive system is one example of the wondrous process of the body. The digestive system has billions of microbes living in it that help us to ferment fiber from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and create short-chain fatty acids that help us with energy metabolism, glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, inflammation, immunity, and more. This is why it’s important to eat fiber, including whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

Connected to our bodies are our brains, and they are full of neurons (brain cells), synapses (connections), neurochemicals, and hormones that help to protect brain cells and make new ones. Moving our bodies helps to increase these chemicals. In addition, moving our bodies regularly helps us to increase serotonin, which may help us feel less anxious and depressed. Hugging increases oxytocin in the brain, and this “love hormone” helps us feel a sense of belonging and bonding. The body’s actions have a powerful impact on the brain, and vice versa.

Body positivity versus body neutrality

Body positivity is a movement that invites people to appreciate the body size and shape they have now without worrying about unrealistic body standards. With body positivity, society’s unhealthy standards for body shapes and sizes are challenged. It’s also important to remember that cultural norms and what’s considered an ideal body change with time.

The goal with body positivity is to honor and appreciate all body types, especially your own body. Feeling confident about the way you look feels good and can be empowering.

With body neutrality, the focus is on the function of your body: finding happiness and fulfillment, appreciating the power of our muscles, the strength of our bones, the protection our skin offers, and the rewards of the dopamine system in our brains. Connecting with friends and family, reaching small, meaningful goals, and enjoying physical activity are healthy ways to approach your body. A focus on finding pleasure in the wellness journey will serve your body — at any size — and your brain.

Remember all the things your body can do for you

Transport you from one place to another (quickly or slowly)
Release neurochemicals that give you pleasure, like from hugging a loved one
Move your arms and/or legs with joy following the rhythm and beat of music
Take deep breaths to calm your mind
Perform stretches that release endorphins
Practice yoga, tai chi, or qigong, which can help calm the body and mind.

South Beach Prosthetics stands with you every step of the way. Wherever you are in your journey, you can count on our support & expertise to get all the prosthetic care you need. Get in touch with us today at (888) 819-4721 to learn more about how we can help. Find our Facebook community here.

Reference: [https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/moving-to-wellness-while-practicing-body-neutrality-202204142727]

This Therapy Helps Stop Negative Self-Talk

Posted on Apr 2, 2022Oct 2, 2024 by webadmin

We all have an inner critic. At times, this little voice can keep us motivated toward goals. However, this voice can often be more harmful, particularly when it gets into the realm of excessive negativity. This is known as negative self-talk, and it can really bring us down. Learn how to deal with it and stay positive.

It sounds hopeless, but the good news is that there is a way to break through these unhealthy thought patterns with the help of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). However, experts warn that this approach is not for everyone.

What is CBT?

CBT is based on the idea that behaviors, emotions, and thoughts are intertwined. Thoughts influence an individual’s feelings which influence behavior. CBT-trained therapists use these three pathways to effect change.

However, for CBT to work, it requires active participation on the client’s part. When the client is willing to put in the work, randomized clinical trials have shown that CBT can ease anxiety, depression, eating and sleeping disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive thinking, among many others.

But unlike other psychotherapy styles, CBT focuses on the present. It doesn’t seek to address underlying issues, like systemic problems in families and childhood trauma. Its goal is to provide individuals with tools they can use on their own, which translates to a shorter-term treatment.

If you think you or someone you know can benefit from CBT, we break down everything you need to know about this therapy style below.

Thoughts, not circumstances, affect actions and feelings

One of the most common misconceptions is that circumstances directly influence what one feels and does. In CBT, therapists believe that the critical factor is how individuals interpret these circumstances and act based on those interpretations.

You can try this by being more aware of your thoughts. When you notice your mood changing, figure out what you were thinking right before you felt worse. This powerful exercise can show you how your moods are, in fact, not affected by what’s happening around you but how you interpret these circumstances.

When you are more aware, you’ll get a realistic and accurate view of your circumstances.

Overcoming negative thoughts

If you want to overcome your negative self-talk, you have to begin by identifying what you tell yourself in moments of distress. For example, if you’re anxious, your thoughts revolve around the theme of threat. You tell yourself that you’re not equipped to handle your challenges or that the world is scary. Meanwhile, if you’re depressed, your thoughts revolve around feelings of unworthiness.

Once you identify these thoughts, your therapist will help you analyze these thoughts with a series of questions that can help you verify whether the thought is true or not. More often than not, most patients realize that these negative thoughts are not valid. And the interesting thing is that everyone is prone to these thinking errors.

CBT is not positive thinking

Contrary to popular belief, CBT is not about shifting negative thoughts to positive ones, which psychologists say doesn’t help. Instead, CBT helps train you to become more compassionate to yourself and be more realistic about your situation.

Putting in the work

The best thing about CBT is that the work doesn’t end when you walk out of your therapist’s door. Therapists typically hand out worksheets or a list of apps that can help patients change their thinking and their life even after the sessions have ended.

One primary tool CBT-trained therapists use is an automatic thought record. It can be a physical or digital note where patients can track what they are feeling, thinking, and doing in between sessions. The notes are then used to evaluate the patient’s thoughts during the next therapy session.

How to find a CBT-trained counselor

You can check the lists of CBT-trained counselors by the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies and the American Psychological Association.

Have you tried cognitive behavioral therapy? If you haven’t yet, is it something you’re considering?

South Beach Prosthetics manufactures and provides comfortable, high-performance prosthetic solutions that meet individual patient requirements in a compassionate and supportive environment. We are here for you. Connect with us to learn more at (855) 958-1777 and join our Facebook community. Ask us about our in-home care and our no-cost transportation services!

Reference: [https://amputeestore.com/blogs/amputee-life/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-helps-stop-negative-self-talk]

What You Need to Know About Prosthetics as A New Amputee

Posted on Nov 2, 2021Oct 11, 2023 by webadmin

The goal of a prosthetic is to restore normal body function to a patient. Prosthetic limbs allow amputees to walk, write, run, hold items, and perform all kinds of other activities that collectively increase the quality of life. Here is everything you need to know about prosthetics as a new amputee — and if you have other questions, call us! We have a great support team that gets all your questions answered. We are also about ‘The Perfect Fit!’ — we don’t let you live with any physical discomfort from your prosthesis!

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the information out there, so we took some of the commonly asked questions to help you decide whether you want to get a prosthesis and what to expect once you have your device.

Why get a prosthesis?

Choosing to use or forego a prosthesis depends on your goals. Consider the following questions: What do you want to do with a prosthetic limb? What activities do you want to do after limb loss? Do you want to run or resume playing a sport?

After carefully answering these questions, work closely with your healthcare team. They can address your concerns and guide you to a device that will help you meet your goals.

How does a prosthetic limb work?

A prosthesis is an extension of your body. It’s a tool that helps you regain mobility or independence after limb loss. Individual prostheses differ depending on a person’s physical abilities, level of amputation, and needs and goals.

Upper- and lower-limb prostheses have similar essential components. However, upper-limb prostheses will have a “terminal device” such as a hand, hook, or a specialized tool. The focus of upper-limb prostheses is on functional enhancement. Meanwhile, lower-limb prostheses feature a foot and focus on walking.

Both upper- and lower-limb prostheses have a prosthetic socket. This is the receptacle into which the residual limb will fit. A prosthetic liner, socks, or both are first worn over the residual limb, followed by the socket.

The prosthetic limb must also be suspended or held with a suspension sleeve or a locking pin attached to the liner. Your prosthetist will be able to discuss the many socket and suspension options with you.

How much will a prosthesis cost?

Prostheses have a wide price range. It depends on your limb loss level and the type of device best suited to you and your needs. Insurance plans typically cover the partial cost of the device. Some plans may even cover the entire cost of the prosthesis.

Work closely with your insurance company to understand the types of devices and the services covered by your policy. Be prepared to make several calls and provide documentation. You are your advocate in this case.

Find out if working with your prosthetist on the fit and alignment of your device is bundled with the total cost of your prosthesis. Typically, prosthetists continue to work with you until you’re comfortable with your device’s fit and alignment.

What is a K level?

The K level is a rating from 0 to 4. It is used to predict your potential success with your prosthesis. Medicare uses this system to rate your rehabilitation potential. And many private insurance companies also use this system to establish coverage guidelines.

To determine your K level, your doctor will assess your cognitive and physical abilities.

K0 Level

The individual doesn’t have the ability or potential to ambulate or transfer safely with or without assistance. A prosthesis will not enhance the person’s mobility or quality of life.

K1 Level

The individual has the ability or potential to use a prosthesis for transfers or ambulation on level surfaces at fixed walking speeds.

K2 Level

The individual has the potential or ability to overcome low-level environmental barriers such as uneven surfaces, curbs, or stairs.

K3 Level

The individual has the ability or potential for ambulation at a changeable measure. Most people under this classification can overcome most of the environmental barriers mentioned above. They may also have activities that demand prosthetic limb use beyond simple movement.

K4 Level

The individual has the potential or ability to use a prosthesis beyond basic ambulation, exhibiting high impact or energy levels. A child, an active adult, or an athlete will typically fall under this classification.

When can I get a prosthesis?

It depends on how quickly your residual limb heals from the surgery. Some receive a temporary prosthesis immediately after amputation or within two to three weeks. Fitting for a prosthetic device usually begins two to six months after surgery when the incision has completely healed, the swelling has gone down, and your physical condition improves.

Meanwhile, the rehabilitation process begins soon after surgery with physical or occupational therapy. You learn how to move with a wheelchair, walker, or crutches and exercise and stretch to avoid contractures. These exercises keep you as mobile as possible and prepare you for wearing and using your prosthesis.

How soon can I go back to what I used to do pre-amputation?

Your new normal depends on your amputation type, rehabilitation process, and health and well-being. Expect the first year to be challenging. There will be changes in the shape and size of your residual limb, and you will work with your healthcare team to recondition muscles. Your body will also need to relearn activities, coordination, gait, and balance. You will continue to improve with time and effort.

What if the device doesn’t fit?

Fitting for your prosthesis involves several visits to your prosthetist. Some amputations can be challenging to fit, requiring multiple fittings. And even when your device fits properly, it takes some time to get used to the sensation of having extra weight through your residual limb.

Although some initial discomfort is expected, pain is not part of the process. If you feel pain, be as specific as possible in describing the pain and where you feel it. This allows your prosthetist to address your concerns accurately.

As your residual limb continues to change and heal, make sure not to miss any follow-up appointments. Your prosthetist must make adjustments to ensure your comfort and avoid significant problems.

How long does a prosthesis last?

Depending on your activity level, growth, and age, a device can last anywhere from several months to years. In the early stages after limb loss, many changes occur in the residual limb, leading to shrinking. This may require changing your prosthetic socket, getting new prosthetic liners, or even a different device.

If your activity level increases or you want to do more activities, you may need to change your device or some of its components.

Is it challenging to use a prosthetic limb?

It can be a challenge. It takes time, effort, determination, and patience. However, you have nothing to worry about. Prosthetists typically offer some training on how to use and take care of a prosthesis. It’s also helpful to work with a physical or occupational therapist. Working with a therapist will make prosthesis use tolerable for first-timers.

Can the prosthesis break down?

Yes, your prosthetic limb may require repair or replacement so take note of warranties. Get minor problems fixed right away. Waiting may lead to a more complex repair job or severe skin problems. Waiting to get your prosthesis fixed will not only harm your residual limb but other parts of the body as well. Unsolved issues will also affect your posture and the performance of the device.

If you have more questions, we highly suggest consulting with your prosthetist. But if you don’t have one yet, we also have a guide to choosing the right prosthetist for you.

South Beach Prosthetics develops and provides comfortable, high-performance prosthetic solutions that meet all patient requirements in a compassionate and supportive environment with ongoing solutions and care. Connect with us to learn more and schedule your complimentary consultation. Info@SouthBeachOP.com

Reference: [https://amputeestore.com/blogs/amputee-life/what-you-need-to-know-about-prosthetics-as-a-new-amputee]

Desensitization Exercises After Limb Amputation

Posted on Aug 9, 2021Nov 21, 2023 by webadmin

Hypersensitivity to touch in your residual limb occurs in many cases. Engaging in a comprehensive rehab program, including exercise and desensitization exercises, can help you have a successful recovery after limb amputation. Here, you can understand more about desensitization exercises.

If you have had a limb amputation, you may benefit from the skilled services of a physical therapist to help you regain maximal mobility. Your physical therapist can show you exercises to do, teach you how to manage your prosthesis, and maximize mobility while minimizing pain or discomfort. Rehabilitation after a limb amputation—lower extremity or upper extremity—typically involves several different components. Exercise can help improve your strength and range of motion. Wrapping can help shape your residual limb to prepare it for proper use of the prosthesis. Desensitization exercises can help decrease residual limb hypersensitivity.

Desensitization exercises may be one component of your rehab program after limb amputation. These exercises are designed to help decrease hypersensitivity that may occur after an amputation. After an amputation, you may feel phantom limb pain. Sometimes the end of your limb may become very sensitive to touch. This can make using a prosthesis difficult or impossible.

Why Are Desensitization Exercises Necessary After Amputation?

After limb amputation, an area of hypersensitivity can develop along the healed surgical incision. This can make wearing a compression bandage painful and it may interfere with prosthetic use. Special desensitization exercises can help decrease this uncomfortable sensation. The technique involves the gradual advancement of texture and pressure application to the hypersensitive area. By consistently providing a changing input to the nerves of your residual limb, your hypersensitivity will decrease and prosthetic use can become more comfortable and natural.

Before starting desensitization exercises—or any other exercise after an amputation—check in with your doctor or physical therapist to ensure that the exercises are safe for you to do. You should never rub any material over an open incision or wound as part of desensitization exercises. This may cause infection to enter your body through the incision.

To begin, lightly rub a smooth textured material, like silk, across the hypersensitive site. Rub back and forth, in circles, and random directions. Be sure to cover the entire area that may be hypersensitive. You should feel discomfort, itching, pain, or sensitive sensations while rubbing the material on your residual limb. You should rub over the sensitive area for a few minutes, and the desensitization exercises can be done several times each day.

When you stop rubbing your limb during the desensitization exercises, the uncomfortable sensations you are feeling should go away. At the very least, they should decrease in intensity.

Once the sensation becomes comfortable over the course of days or weeks, advance the texture as well as the pressure applied. A rougher surface may be required and slightly more pressure against your residual limb may be necessary. Desensitization should be performed every two hours for 15 minutes throughout the day.

Different Textures to Use for Desensitization Exercises

You should use various textures for your desensitization exercises. This can help you gradually decrease the hypersensitivity you are feeling in your residual limb. Your physical therapist can give you ideas of different textures to use to advance your desensitization exercises.

Texture advancement may be progressed from smooth to rough as follows:

Silk
Cotton
Velvet
Corduroy
Wool

Your tolerance to each texture may vary, and you may have to progress slowly over a few days (or weeks) for each type of texture. Working closely with your PT and doctor during this time can be important, just so you know exactly what to expect with desensitization exercises.

By performing your desensitization exercises using a variety of surfaces and pressures, you may be able to decrease your overall hypersensitivity to touch in your residual limb. Engaging in a comprehensive rehab program, including exercise and desensitization exercises, can help you have a successful recovery after limb amputation.

Our team understands your journey, and we go above and beyond to make sure you can overcome every challenge. We are here for you. Connect with us to learn more at (855) 958-1777 and join our Facebook community. Remember – we also offer free transportation for prosthetic appointments and deliver in-home care. You can also ask us about the South Beach Prosthetics Friends program for support and camaraderie.

Reference: [https://www.verywellhealth.com/desensitization-exercises-2696171]