Medslant Acid Reflux Newsletter

Does Jogging Cause Acid Reflux?

Many new on line articles are saying that jarring exercise such as jogging can cause heartburn. I have tried to find a medical reason for this or, at the least, an M.D. or other medical professional who substantiates this theory. I can't. But, if you are a jogger or runner and find that it is causing an increase in heartburn, it may be wise to try a less jarring exercise such as walking or swimming and consult with your doctor.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

I want to share an unusual customer comment that we received a couple of months ago.

'I just want to let you know that your wedge pillow is such a wonderful product. After using it for a week or so, I began to realize that my carpal tunnel syndrome was improving a great deal. I had an advanced case of it, and now, after using your product for several weeks (and still wearing wrist braces at night), I rarely have any symptoms of it whatsoever. This was such an unexpected surprise that I bought one for my mother who also has carpal tunnel and she has experienced the same relief. Your product works so well for carpal tunnel that I really hope that you would mention it to others since so many people suffer from this problem.' -- MF, MS

No one had ever mentioned this before and I could think of no reason why elevated sleep would help with carpal tunnel. But, some persistent research did reveal some answers.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says that carpal tunnel release is one of the most common surgeries performed in the US. Carpal usually occurs only in adults and it occurs three times more frequently in women than in men.

According to the University of Chicago Medical Center, 'carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve is compressed as it passes through an opening from the wrist to the hand called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel is formed by the carpal bones on the bottom of the wrist and the transverse carpal ligament across the top of the wrist'. Since the median nerve provides sensory and motor functions to the thumb and three middle fingers, many symptoms can result.

Causes of the disease may include frequent, repetitive movements with the hands such as typing or in certain physical activities, joint or bone disease, hormonal or blood sugar level changes, or injuries to the wrist. Symptoms usually include pain and or numbness in the hand, difficulty making a fist or gripping objects, and night pain severe enough to cause waking.

An article on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Sleep Position published in HAND claims that sleeping in the lateral (side) position, puts the wrist at 'increased risk of flexion or extension, compressing the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Steven McCabe, M.D., a hand surgeon in Louisville KY is lead author of the article. Dr. McCabe continues that this finding can have clinical significance because carpal tunnel can be reversible when treated early. Supine or back sleeping is recommended.

Nothing to Sneeze About

Spring may mean leafing trees and beautiful flowers but here in Atlanta it also means everything gets covered in yellow pollen. And the sneezing begins. Sleep on a MedSlant pillow with the allergen barrier cover and protect yourself from mites and pollutants.

Purchase either MedSlant pillow, enter coupon code 'sneeze', click apply coupon and $10 will be deducted from the cost of a pillow. Act quickly, please. The coupon expires 04/18/2008.

Is Giving Good for Your Health?

We have all always been taught that giving time and money to those in need is good. Now, we have scientific proof. Elizabeth W. Dunn, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia was lead researcher on a project between her university and Harvard. Researchers wondered if the way people spent their money made a difference. It does. The study results indicated that the way we spend money on a daily basis can make a big difference in our happiness. And how we spend what we have is more important than how much we have. Giving really can make us feel good.

Please keep the phone calls and emails coming to 1.800.346.1850 and customerservice@medslant.com. I love hearing from you.



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