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A History of Remembrance – Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday that is observed each year on the last Monday in May. Formerly known as Decoration Day, this holiday originated following the Civil War to remember and honor fallen soldiers, and officially became a federal holiday in 1971. Today, its observance includes visiting cemeteries and memorials, attending Memorial Day parades and events, and using the day to remember loved ones.

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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• The Arthritis Foundation has released the report, Environmental and Policy Strategies to Increase Physical Activity Among Adults with Arthritis. The report was produced in collaboration with numerous co-sponsors including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, United States Bone and Joint Initiative and more. Within the report, the priority strategies are discussed in relation to six influential sectors which range from Community and Public Health to Mass Media and Communication. The full report along with other information can be accessed through the Arthritis Foundation website at:   http://www.arthritis.org/public-health-physical-activity-report.php.
  

• For individuals just diagnosed with arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation offers an informative and helpful publication. To obtain a free copy of Just Diagnosed by Arthritis Today, visit the Arthritis Foundation link at: http://www.arthritis.org/just-diagnosed-with-arthritis.php.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) may often involve periods of increased inflammation and pain, but there are anticipatory actions you can take to help cope with flare-ups. Having an action plan is a proactive step in living with arthritis.  To read more about coping with flare-ups, visit the Arthritis Foundation link at: http://www.arthritistoday.org/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/better-living/arthritis-flare.php.

• Looking to incorporate exercise into your daily routine? Or maybe you’re trying to regain daily activity after a long hiatus? There is no doubt that physical activity holds incredible benefits for both mind and body, and can also be particularly helpful in managing arthritis pain. If you are looking to ease into a new exercise plan, check out Arthritis Today’s 12-Week Walking Plan, which offers different options for beginning-advanced walkers. The free, printable plan also includes a page to log activity and space for writing your goals! Access the plan at:  http://www.arthritistoday.org/fitness/walking/tips-and-strategies/walking-plan.php.  To avoid risk of injury and complications, it is advised that you consult a physician before starting an exercise program. 

• As if living in a hurried, stress-prone society isn’t exhausting enough, living with a chronic condition can be even more draining. If you find yourself having difficulty getting up in the morning and caffeinated beverages have become your daily ally, it may be time to incorporate some healthier refreshers into your life. For ideas on revamping your daily routine, check out Arthritis Today’s “Instant Energy Boosters” available at: http://www.arthritistoday.org/symptoms/fatigue/instant-energy-boosters.php.

Information obtained from the Arthritis Foundation.  http://www.arthritis.org/index.php

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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Here is the latest edition of SAREC: In Pictures! The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Center (SAREC) was developed in 2002 and is located near Lingle, WY.

For more information on the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Center (SAREC), visit: http://www.uwyo.edu/uwexpstn/centers/sarec/index.html.

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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• Heat and Cold Therapy – While the use of hot and cold compresses in assisting with injuries has been utilized for hundreds of years, heat and cold treatments can also be incredibly beneficial for ongoing conditions such as arthritis. Heat and cold affect tissues differently, so keep this in mind when preparing such treatment. Cold has the ability to reduce inflammation and swelling while also numbing the affected area, while heat can be soothing and relaxing as it stimulates circulation. There are a number of ways that these therapies can be implemented, including through the use of cold packs, hot tubs, hot towels and heating pads, small ice-water tubs and more. Always use caution with the temperature and duration when implementing heat/cold therapy, and talk with your doctor when starting a new treatment.

• Massage Therapy – Massage can be incredibly soothing and relaxing. There are a few things to keep in mind though, whether doing massage on yourself or seeking out a massage therapist. Always maintain an awareness of how your body is feeling, and stop the massage if it becomes painful. Depending on the severity of the arthritis pain and inflammation, some areas might not be suitable or safe for massage therapy. If getting a massage from a practitioner, make sure they are certified to do massage therapy and inquire about their knowledge of arthritis and other conditions.

• Relaxation and Meditation – Chronic pain can be stressful, frustrating, and may even cause feelings of hopelessness. Relaxation techniques and meditation have been shown to have many health benefits. These practices can help you manage pain and develop coping techniques for other stressors as well. The Arthritis Foundation’s web page on practicing relaxation has many resources available and can be accessed at:  http://www.arthritis.org/practice-relaxation.php.

• Exercise – When arthritis strikes and stiffness starts to set in, one of the best things you can do to keep symptoms under control is to keep moving. Whether you engage in light stretching, swimming or walking, exercise can improve mobility and joint function. A wealth of information on exercising with arthritis can be found on the Fitness page of the Arthritis Today website. The Fitness page contains a variety of resources including workout videos, tips for starting an exercise program, information on yoga, tai chi and stretching, and much more. The Fitness page can be found at: http://www.arthritistoday.org/fitness/index.php. In addition to these resources, Arthritis Today offers a helpful wellness tool called Track + React which allows you to log your daily activities and arthritis symptoms. The results are then presented in a graph which details the relationship between what you do and how you feel, and logged activities include everything from nutrition, sleep, exercise and medication. http://www.arthritistoday.org/tools/track-and-react/track-and-react-modules.php.

• Alternative & Complimentary Treatments – Relief may be found through other treatments such as acupuncture, hypnosis, supplements and herbal remedies, and aromatherapy. While these treatments have health claims and may be beneficial for some, always be sure to do plenty of research and consult a physician before trying. While there is a huge market for herbs and supplements, they are not regulated by the FDA. Be aware of risks when combining herbs and supplements with medications.  

• Surgery – Surgery is a big decision and can be a scary and confusing process. There are many factors to consider, preparations to make, and plenty of research should be done in advance to help you be an informed consumer. Arthritis Today offers great resources regarding surgery on their website and covers topics such as Preventing Medical Errors, Ways to Avoid Knee Surgery, Prehab for Surgery, Preparing for Joint Surgery and more. This information from Arthritis Today can be found at: http://www.arthritistoday.org/treatments/surgery/index.php. For further information, the Arthritis Foundation provides surgery fact sheets which can be accessed at: http://www.arthritis.org/aaos-fact-sheets.php.

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

- Arthritis Foundation. http://www.arthritis.org/manage-pain.php 

- Arthritis Today. Surgery. http://www.arthritistoday.org/treatments/surgery/index.php

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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Did You Know…?

• There are over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions.
• Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the U.S.
• Arthritis affects 1 out of every 5 adults, and this number is on the rise.
• Two-thirds of people with arthritis are under the age of 65, including approximately 300,000 children.
• In the U.S., arthritis is accountable for work limitations in approximately 1 out of every 3 individuals with the condition.
• There is a prevalence of comorbidity with arthritis; over half of adults with diabetes and/or heart disease are also affected by arthritis.
• The most common forms of arthritis and related conditions include: Osteoarthritis (OA), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Lupus, Gout, Fibromyalgia and Osteoporosis.
• Arthritis is more prevalent in women than men. Approximately sixty percent of individuals with the condition are female.
• Arthritis affects approximately one-third of adults in farming and ranching. Farmers and ranchers may be at an increased risk due to the nature of the work in agricultural settings.

Warning Signs & Symptoms of Arthritis:

• Stiffness, swelling, redness or feeling of heat in joints.
• Pain and/or tenderness that persists.
• Difficulty with moving joints and performing daily activities.
• Pain may come and go, and is not always isolated to one area of the body.

Early detection is imperative for treating and managing arthritis. Consult a physician if you have had persistent symptoms and are concerned about arthritis – treatment options are available to maximize your quality of life!

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-News from the Arthritis Foundation. 2011.  http://www.arthritis.org/media/newsroom/Arthritis_Prevalence_Fact_Sheet_5-31-11.pdf

-Arthritis Foundation: Arthritis in Women. http://www.arthritis.org/women.php

-Agriculture and Arthritis.  http://www.arthritis-ag.org/arthritis-and-you/agriculture-and-arthritis.aspx

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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Allergies, particularly hay fever, can be absolutely miserable. The sneezing, the congestion, and the itchy, watery eyes can be enough to make anyone want to stay indoors wearing a dust mask. Unfortunately, allergies are all too common. According to the Mayo Clinic website, hay fever affects more than 1 in 5 people. So, what exactly causes this kind of allergic reaction in some people? Oversensitivity to certain allergens, such as pollen or pet dander, may provoke an exaggerated immune response. This response causes the immune system to develop antibodies to allergens perceived as “invaders,” which then causes histamine to be released into the bloodstream, which in turn causes the resulting allergy symptoms. While there are a multitude of allergens in the world, there are also many remedies to provide relief.

Common allergens include:

• Pollen (including tree, grass and weed pollen)
• Mold and fungi spores
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Cockroaches

Seasonal allergens typically associated with hay fever include pollens, mold and fungi.

Options for allergy relief include:

• Use of indoor air cleaners and HEPA filters
• Over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants
• Over-the-counter antihistamine nasal sprays and eye drops
• Immunotherapy. This must be discussed with a physician and set up through an appointment.
• Prescription allergy medications and Corticosteroid creams, nasal sprays and medications. See a physician to discuss which option may be right for you.
• Alternative remedies such as acupuncture, herbal teas and supplements, and modifying one’s diet. Research these options and talk with a physician before trying alternative treatments.

Prevention tips for avoiding allergy triggers: 

• After spending time outdoors, be sure to shower and wash clothing. Pollen and dust can easily collect on skin, clothing and in hair.
• Clean, clean, clean! One of the best ways to keep pollens, pet dander and dust mites at bay is to remove these triggers as much as possible. Clean and vacuum frequently to avoid buildup of allergens within the home. If needed, wear a dust mask when cleaning.
• During times when pollen levels are high, keep windows shut and avoid spending time outdoors if possible.
• Wash bedding weekly and avoid drying outdoors.

*This handy Allergy Alert from Pollen.com presents allergy levels in an easy-to-read format using a color-coded scale, and also includes information on the predominant pollens in your area.

-Pollen.com Allergy Alert – 4 Day Forecast http://pollen.com/allergy-forecast.asp

Allergies don’t have to disrupt your life! There are many options available for finding relief. Research preventative solutions and allergy remedies, and talk with a physician to find what’s right for you.

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-Mayo Clinic: Allergies http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/allergies/DS01118

-Mayo Clinic: Hay Fever http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hay-fever/DS00174

-Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=9&cont=82

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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National Arthritis Awareness Month, an awareness campaign initiated by the Arthritis Foundation, serves to educate Americans on all facets of this debilitating condition. An even more important emphasis of this campaign is the point that arthritis does not have to be inevitable or untreatable. There are many options available for treating and possibly preventing arthritis, including lifestyle changes and regular exercise. Through education, awareness and individualized treatment, quality of life can be greatly improved!  Throughout the month we will visit this topic and present facts on arthritis, warning signs and risk factors, and options for managing this condition.

There are many ways you can be a part of this important campaign, and there are a wealth of resources available this month to help you get involved! Located on the Arthritis Foundation’s website is the A to Z Action Zone page, which lists numerous ways to participate in this initiative:   http://www.arthritis.org/arthritis-action-zone.php.

Further information and resources can be found at:

- Arthritis Foundation  http://www.arthritis.org/index.php

- Arthritis & Agriculture  http://www.arthritis-ag.org/

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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With chronic stress and anxiety on the rise in our society, stress reduction methods are becoming ever more important. In a world that is constantly evolving and advancing in technology, it makes sense that these two areas would inevitably mesh; technological advancements have created a new frontier for stress management and relief, and many options are now available for in-home use. While these products may seem amazing, it is always important to do some research before trying and buying. Most of these devices would fall under the category of complementary and alternative medicine, so being an informed consumer is incredibly important. As with any new program or health-related product, be sure to do some research and consult a health professional before trying.

Feedback Devices

Biofeedback is a type of treatment typically conducted in a clinical setting by a certified technician or therapist. Electrical sensors are attached to the body which measure a variety of health indicators including body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and even brain wave activity. The feedback from these monitors is displayed on a computer, and the ultimate objective involves using different exercises and techniques to gain greater control over internal/emotional states that affect these physiological processes. Biofeedback has been shown to have many health benefits and is used for a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, chronic stress, asthma, chronic pain and more.

If biofeedback treatment is not an ideal option, there are now numerous devices on the market for in-home use which operate under the same principle. While these devices may not fall under the technical category of biofeedback, they are similar in that they measure certain biological processes and claim to have similar health benefits. Some of the programs and devices available include:

• Journey to Wild Divine – These products operate using what the makers refer to as “Active Feedback” hardware and use three finger sensors to measure heart rate variability and sweat gland activity. There are several software programs available which enable the user to navigate through vivid landscapes and game modes using the body’s internal processes. More information on these programs can be found at the Wild Divine website: http://www.wilddivine.com/about-wild-divine/.
• emWave by HeartMath – This program also uses computer software and measures heart rate variability. The software presents different challenge levels and games, and feedback is obtained from a pulse monitor. A portable device is also available for stress relief and training on-the-go. More information on this product can be found at the HeartMath website:  http://www.heartmathstore.com/.
• MindWave by NeuroSky- MindWave is a portable EEG brainwave headset with accompanying computer software and feedback capability that enables the user to play games using brainwave activity. The software comes with ten neuroscience applications, including one specifically for meditation and relaxation. More information on this device can be found at the NeuroSky website:  http://store.neurosky.com/products/mindwave-1.

Helpful and Convenient Apps

Numerous applications are now available for computers and smart phones which provide reminders to exercise, take breaks, perform eye relaxation exercises and deep breathing, and much more.

• Workrave offers a free downloadable app that reminds users to take frequent breaks from the computer to avoid eye strain. http://www.workrave.org/
• Evo is a customizable website app which provides break reminders and eye exercises. http://www.protectyourvision.org/.
• StretchWare is a software application that reminds users to take stretch breaks and provides 14 guided routines to choose from.  http://www.stretchware.com/.
• Breathing Zone, Relax & Rest Guided Meditations, and Relax Escape Meditate are applications available on iTunes. These apps offer a variety of sounds, music and/or visuals to help with rest and relaxation. http://www.apple.com/itunes/.

These are just a handful of the hundreds of programs and applications available for stress reduction and relaxation. Technology that enables users to tap into their own physiological processes to decrease stress and increase self-awareness is becoming quite popular. It makes sense to harness methods that hold the potential for long-term results and coping skills, especially in our increasingly fast-paced world. As advances in technology continue, advances in well-being and health promotion will undoubtedly increase as well.

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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• If you find yourself frequently crunched for time – as many of us do – begin waking up 15-30 minutes earlier in the morning. Use this time as you need to, whether it’s for quiet mental preparation, sipping tea while reading something inspirational, or preparing your agenda for the day to make things less hectic. It’s your time.
• When work or school becomes excessively stressful, writing out a work plan and/or priority list can be helpful to regain clarity of the big picture. Sometimes things become too overwhelming, so breaking tasks up into smaller chunks or achievable goals can help the workload become manageable again.
• When working at a computer, remember to take breaks frequently. Staring at a computer for long periods of time can lead to eye strain, headaches and muscle fatigue. According to the Mayo Clinic website, it is advisable to follow the 20/20/20 rule; look away from your computer every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds, and focus on something at least 20 feet away. In addition, take a break every hour or so to move around and stretch.
• Practice deep breathing. Because breathing can become rapid or irregular during times of stress, it can be helpful to become more aware of your breath. Deep breathing exercises can help regain a sense of calm while boosting refreshing oxygen to the body.  
• Try aromatherapy. The power of smell can be utilized for relaxation, as certain scents can have a significant impact on memory and emotion. Comforting and familiar scents can be used, or try relaxing aromas such as lavender, orange, mint or eucalyptus.
• Just as certain scents can induce a calmer and more relaxed state, so can the power of sound. When things become hectic, it can be helpful to take a break and listen to relaxing music or sounds of nature. Try making a CD or playlist specifically for relaxation to unplug from the world and tune into you.
• Visualization, guided imagery and meditation are great ways to unwind and feel greater self-control over the stress response. Meditation can help you feel calm in the face of stressful moments, and visualization exercises enable you to use mental imagery to relax anywhere, anytime. There is plenty of information available to help you find a method that suits you.  

Below are some helpful videos for stress relief available on the Mayo Clinic website:  

-Mayo Clinic: Meditation http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/meditation/MM00623

-Mayo Clinic: Yoga for Stress Management http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/yoga/MM00650

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-Mayo Clinic: Health Information: Eye Strain http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/eyestrain/DS01084/DSECTION=prevention  

-The Franklin Institute: Relieve Stress http://www.fi.edu/learn/brain/relieve.html

- Helpguide.org: Relaxation Techniques for Stress Relief http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_relief_meditation_yoga_relaxation.htm

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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It’s that time of year again – the time for running and hiking outdoors, swimming, gardening, camping, fishing and…remembering to use sunscreen! Skin is the largest organ of the human body and has many protective features. However, skin is incredibly vulnerable to the many elements we are exposed to, especially ultraviolet radiation. People are exposed to sunlight to some degree nearly every day, especially those who spend time working outdoors, and this accumulation of exposure can take a toll on skin. Damage caused by exposure to sunlight can result in more visible signs of aging, sun spots, cell mutations and even skin cancer. There are many things you can do to protect your skin from UV damage, and it is important to understand that skin actually needs to be protected year-round. While warm weather may be seasonal, ultraviolet light exposure is not. Know the facts and learn what you can do to avoid the harmful effects of over-exposure to UV rays!

   Did You Know…?

• In the U.S., skin cancer is the most common form of cancer.
• It is estimated that 1 in 5 people in the U.S. will develop skin cancer at some point during their lives.
• While Melanoma is not the most common form of skin cancer, it is the most lethal. Melanoma results in more fatalities than of any other type of skin cancer.
• Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, with squamous cell carcinoma being the second most common form.
• While there are many factors that can play a role in developing skin cancer, ultraviolet radiation from sun exposure is a primary cause.
• Ultraviolet radiation is a carcinogen, just like asbestos and certain chemicals in cigarettes. The International Agency for Research on Cancer recognizes ultraviolet tanning devices as cancer-causing agents. Using tanning beds can significantly increase one’s risk of developing skin cancer.
• Up to 90 percent of the changes in skin related to aging are caused by sun damage.
• There is a higher prevalence of melanoma in men than in women, and the mortality rate for this form of cancer in men is increasing.

Prevention Tips:

• Make sunscreen a part of your daily routine year-round. It is recommended that a broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher be used daily, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher be used during prolonged periods of outdoor sun exposure. Be sure to reapply throughout the day. For those who wear makeup, it may also double as sunscreen thanks to many companies incorporating this into their products, so be sure to check labels when buying cosmetics.    
• Try to avoid sun exposure between 10am and 4pm, since this is typically the time when the sun’s rays are strongest. If you have to be outside for any length of time during these hours, try to seek shade as much as possible.
• Try to wear as much protective clothing as possible, including a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Avoid tanning beds.
• Take precautions when using sun-sensitizing medications. Certain types of drugs such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause skin sensitivity to sunlight. It is important to talk with your physician and be aware of potential side effects when starting new medications.
• Check your skin regularly. Pay close attention to any pre-existing moles, freckles and other skin growths, and note any changes. See a physician for annual skin exams, particularly if you have a family history of skin cancer and/or have had any previous skin abnormalities. 

To learn more about the effects of UV light, stresses on skin, effects of aging and the dermal layers, check out the interactive web page about skin by the National Geographic website:http://science.nationalgeographic.com/science/health-and-human-body/human-body/skin-article/ 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-The Skin Cancer Foundation – http://www.skincancer.org/

-Mayo Clinic – Health Information – Skin Cancer http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/skin-cancer/DS00190

 

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.