What You Need To Know About Thermoplastic Splints

You’ve probably seen someone wearing a plastic cast covering their finger, wrist, or hand. These are customized medical devices (thermoplastic splints) that help with joint or bone injuries and rheumatology disorders. 

This mouldable plastic is prepared, fitted, and adjusted for your ankle. Since the hand splint is custom-made for you, it is not sharable. You and a different may suffer similar injuries, but your joint sizes differ, as does the injury’s severity. 

It is always essential to consult a professional and have the thermoplastic splint custom made for you. 

Is Plastic Used For Splints? 

Thermoplastic splints are made from plastics primarily made up of polymer resins. They can be heated until they become soft enough to mould them to the injured part of your body. Although primarily used for upper limb injuries, they can also be customized to fit the knee, ankles, and toes. 

Types Of Thermoplastics For Splints

Although there are many types of thermoplastics, the ones often used in orthopaedic clinics are two, high-temperature thermoplastics and low-temperature thermoplastics. 

Low-temperature thermoplastic splints are softened in hot water and fitted directly on the skin. It is usually used to make custom hand splints for upper limb injuries like the thumb and wrist. 

High-temperature thermoplastics are sturdier and more durable than low-temperature thermoplastic splints. They only soften when exposed to very high temperatures. They are ideal for long-term and permanent treatments, such as for people who suffer from chronic rheumatoid disorders. 

Things To Consider When Choosing Thermoplastic Splints

The decision on which thermoplastic splint to use will depend on several things. The primary consideration is the type and severity of the injury. However, other factors will influence the choice that doctors make. 

  • Comfortability. The custom hand splint is made to cover the affected joint only. This allows other joints to move freely. Additionally, it must fit comfortably since it is custom made for your finger, hand, or wrist. 
  • Rigidity. The thermoplastic hand splint is stiff. However, the stiffness varies depending on the type and location of the injury. For example, a finger splint will not be as rigid as a hand splint. This is because the wrist has dense bones. They need a stiffer thermoplastic splint to hold them in place. 
  • Reusability. Some thermoplastic splints are prepared to be worn for a few hours a day or during specific periods, such as when you sleep. Others are made for long-term use, such as for people with serious injuries that require long-term or permanent use. 
  • Strength. Some thermoplastics soften when left in a hot environment, including hot water. Some even get deformed. Other thermoplastics are stronger and will not change shape easily. However, your doctor will most likely warn you against washing the thermoplastic splinting in hot water or leaving it in a closed car. 

There are several dynamics to thermoplastic splints. However, there is no doubt they are a significant improvement from the traditional, bulky plasters that constrained movement for weeks. These splints limit the movement of the affected joints. However, you are still free to enjoy physical activities without the risk of making the injury worse. 

What Is Thermoplastic Splinting?

For years, the solution for fractures was a bulky plaster cast that was quite uncomfortable. It was also unbearably hot to have when the temperatures were high. You must put them on hold if you enjoy sports, such as swimming and kayaking. 

Thermoplastic splinting supports fractures, rheumatology disorders, and other orthopaedic problems without the drawbacks of traditional splints.  

Thermoplastic splints are custom-made using mouldable plastic. They fit the injured limb perfectly, whether the finger, wrist, or hand. Since they are lighter, waterproof, and offer more protection. 

However, thermoplastic splinting also has its drawbacks. When exposed to hot water, the plastic softens and changes shape. It also retains water for a long time, exposing your skin to moisture for too long. It can also become damaged if exposed to water consistently. 

How Thermoplastic Splints Work 

Thermoplastic hand splints performs the same tasks as other splints, only that it offers greater comfort and flexibility. When your doctor determines that your joint needs to be stretched and immobilized, a custom hand splint will be handy. 

So as your injury heals, the joint, bones, and tendons are held in place and are protected.

When you wear a custom hand splint over a prolonged period, the muscles and joints adjust to the new position. The muscles will then realign to the right place. Fortunately, thermoplastic splints allow an extensive range of movement. They are not as restrictive as traditional splints.

In cases where the injury is not too severe, your doctor may recommend removing the hand splint in Singapore when you are showering or performing tasks that will expose the splint to water. 

When used correctly, thermoplastic hand splints will;

  • Keep the muscles from shortening. When you suffer an injury that restricts joint movements, the connective tissues become less flexible. Over time, the muscles will start to shorten. Soon, you’ll have an even bigger problem because your hand will become stiff, even when it heals. 
  • Prevent the muscles from becoming too tight. Cleaning and dressing the joint will be difficult when your muscles get too tight. 
  • Shorten the therapy period because you will heal faster. When your joints become too stiff, the physiotherapists will have to work harder and for longer to get the joints to move freely. 
  • Allow you to attempt exercising the joint slowly without risking any damage. Since it is custom fit, it will hold the joint tightly, so there is no risk of further injuries even when exercising. 

Tips On How To Monitor The Thermoplastic Splint

You can monitor your finger or joint’s response when you get a thermoplastic splint. You should monitor the custom splint, and let your doctor know if you notice any of the following.

  • The splint is loose and not holding the joint or finger as it should.
  • If the splint is too tight. This will result in numbness, pain, tingling, and a change in the colour of your fingers or toes. 
  • Broken skin and pain. Since it is made of plastic, it is not uncommon for the thermoplastic splint to collect moisture and cause the skin to break. This is one of the reasons you are sometimes asked to keep the splint on for a few hours and remove it to allow the skin to breathe. You should see a doctor if you feel pain and see broken skin. 

Despite their drawbacks, thermoplastic splints are a significant improvement from bulky plasters. However, technology brings with it greater responsibility. 

You will need to monitor your injury and alert the doctors immediately if you feel some unusual discomfort, especially if there is a risk of infections. 

You must also know the dos and don’ts when wearing the thermoplastic splint.

Answers to Important Questions About Platelet Rich Plasma Treatments and Injections

PRP which stands for Platelet Rich Plasma is a new treatment procedure that has taken center stage in Singapore and other parts of the world. Over the last couple of years, elite athletes like Tiger Woods, Rafael Nadal who signed up for the procedure, attested that it is effective, and it helped them recover from their injuries quicker. Since it worked for them, you likely may be curious if it will work for you. The only way to be 100% sure if it works is to try it out yourself. But since it is still a new treatment procedure, you are surely going to have a long list of questions about it like- how it works? How much it cost? Its side effects? Its benefits? and so on. Finding the answers to these questions isn’t as difficult as you think. You see, over the years, numerous studies and research have been done to learn what platelet rich plasma therapy and injections are all about and to see if it is effective.   The following article by Rachel Nall answers some important questions about PRP.

What you need to know about PRP

Platelet-rich plasma therapy has made headlines, often because it is favored by elite athletes to help them recover from injury. Some doctors are now using platelet-rich plasma therapy or PRP injections for several reasons, from encouraging hair growth to promoting soft tissue healing. Read more here. You likely now know the answers to some frequently asked questions about PRP like- what are its side effect and benefits? However, just knowing the answers to these questions may not put you at ease or make you confident that the procedure is effective. Well, if that is the case, then it is time for you to dive deeper into the PRP therapy to learn what it is all about.   The following article by Frank B. Kelly, MD contains basically everything you need to know about PRP.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

During the past several years, much has been written about a preparation called platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and its potential effectiveness in the treatment of injuries. Many famous athletes — Tiger Woods, tennis star Rafael Nadal, and several others — have received PRP for various problems, Read more here. You surely now have a deeper understanding of PRP therapy. You also now know some conditions it can be treated with, and an overview of what the procedure is like. Even after knowing all these, your mind is likely going to linger around one question- is PRP an effective treatment option? To find answers to that question, you must dig deeper.   The following article by John J. Wilson, MD, MS discusses the effectiveness of Platelet Rich Plasma.

Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections

PRP has been used in surgeries to promote cell regeneration since 1987 and a growing body of evidence shows it is a viable treatment for tendinosis. Not until recently, though, experts have researched and debated whether or not platelet-rich plasma Read more here. You likely now know that PRP has been used since the late 1980s in surgeries to promote cell regeneration. You also now know the results of some studies that have been done over the last couple of years to determine the effectiveness of PRP. Since no conclusive results have been gotten so far, more studies and research are going to be carried out in years to come.

Final note

PRP is making headlines in the medical space, not just because it is effective, but also because its results are long-lasting. This, of course, does not mean that it is a perfect procedure. People who have undergone the procedure experienced some side effects like bleeding and pain in the injection site, just to name a few. But they aren’t serious or life-threatening. The bottom line is that PRP is a great treatment option for patients with osteoarthritis-related issues, and for those with hair loss and tissue damage.

Understanding Knee Cap Treatment Procedures

Health is wealth. But sometimes we may take our health for granted because we cease to wholly appreciate it unless if it’s gone. Our body parts play the biggest role because with one of them failing to work, it will leave an everlasting effect. Knees are one of them. It has always been overseen as a mere body part but it impacts our bodily function terribly if it’s broken. Knee joint consists of cartilage inside it where it acts like a shock absorber between bones. When cartilage starts to break down, a person may begin to experience pain.

The meniscus cartilage stables out the knee joint while also helps to spread the body weight evenly. However, knee cartilage can deteriorate due to arthritis, injuries, obesity and many more. Total knee cap replacement surgery is the last resort for the patients if non-surgical options offered before electing surgery does not work. Read more about knee cap replacement options at Providence here.

Total and Partial Knee Cap Replacement

To know whether you’re a candidate for total knee replacement depends on the level of discomfort and pain you experience. For instance, if you only feel piercing pain when going up and down the stairs, you’re not a good candidate for the surgery because you can still improve your knee joint performance with other non-surgical treatments. But if you have a hard time walking, are above fifty and have tried the other treatments, knee replacement surgery is surely needed. The non-surgical treatments are such as monitoring a healthy diet and exercising regularly to strengthen knee muscles.

There are two different surgeries to be conducted depending on your pain symptoms such as only partial and total knee replacement. It’s partially replaced when ligaments are intact and pain isolates inside the knee portion. The partial knee replacement is to relieve the symptoms thus it needs not full knee replacement.

Resurfacing of the knee’s cartilage is expected in total knee replacement surgeries. The surgery offers several techniques in conducting it such as robotic-assisted surgery, computer-navigated surgery and custom cutting blocks and all three are on the same level in outcome aspect.

The surgery will be ongoing to an hour or more of an operation. After that, patient will have to wait four to five weeks after the surgery to walk without a cane or walking. They may be able to bend their knee to or beyond 90 degrees, but stiffness and pain may also be experienced for a short while.

Side Effects of Knee Cap Replacement

It’s dishonest to say that there’ll be no side effects of the surgery. Healthy patients face cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke by 1% while 0.5% of knee replacement surgery patients develop an infection.

About 15 to 20% of knee replacement surgery patients have buyer’s remorse as an outcome of the operation. According to them, they still experience discomfort, clicking or a sensation of instability in their knee. It somehow makes them regretful.

Therefore, the experts will usually recommend non-surgical options beforehand. Patients who have undergone the surgery will be able to resume to physical active life but with one condition, to avoid high-impact activities such as running and basketball or it’d reinjure your knee. Instead, low-impact activity such as hiking, golfing and tennis are the other suggested sports.

In conclusion, you can easily relieve your knee pain by getting a surgery or proper treatment for it. But with it comes the huge responsibility for you to face afterwards which is nursing your knee back through recovery. All in all, we should all stick to healthy diet and regular simple exercise to help lower the risk of such conditions.

All You Need to Know About Orthopaedic Surgeons in Singapore

It takes musculoskeletal pain for patients seek orthopaedic surgeons. Patients know that orthopaedic surgeons treat painful joints, and broken bones. Many people do not know that besides these, orthopaedic surgeons are also specialists in the treatment of:

  • Bursitis
  • Fibrous dysplasia
  • Heritable disorders of the connective tissues
  • Joint replacement surgery
  • Osteogenesis imperfecta
  • Osteoporosis
  • Shoulder problems
  • Sports stenosis
  • Sprains and strains
  • Back pain
  • Fibromualgia
  • Growth plate injuries
  • Hip replacement surgery
  • Marfan syndrome
  • Osteonecrosis
  • Paget’s disease of bone
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Tendinitis

Suggested Tests by Orthopaedic Surgeons:

Several tests fall within the category of these surgeons, some areas below:

  1. Scans for bones
  2. Discography
  3. X-rays for bones and for figuring out any fracture
  4. Arthrogram, which is mainly the x-ray for joints
  5. CT (Computer tomography) scan
  6. MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) scan

Recommended Surgical Procedures:

Surgical procedures include the following:

  • The conventional surgical procedure
  • The surgery with minimum invasive 
  • The internal fixation method, which means the orthopaedic device including surgical procedure on the bone

There are, however, some other procedures that are performed on severe bone and muscular injuries and involve either minimal invasive procedure or conventional method. For example:

  • Bone forming
  • The knee and hip replacement, mainly the joint reconstruction of the lower limb
  • repairing of the soft tissues
  • Joint or bone transplantation as well as bone grafting
  • The lengthening of the Limbs
  • The reconstruction of the upper extremity

Making Your Choice; Public or Private Orthopaedic Surgeons:

Now the most essential question to ask, who to choose? Public or private surgeons. The simple reply depends on the following:

  1. Your conditions or severity of the issue
  2. The place where you live
  3. If you intend to choose your doctor
  4. If you already have health insurance with you

Normally the doctors in the public hospitals in Singapore are very well trained and has medical care facility as per the global standards. People are of the perception that doctors in the public sector are comparatively new and has no experience in this domain, whereas these medical practitioners carry vast experience and training from medical institutions in Singapore.

Orthopaedic surgeons in private hospitals are better equipped and more experienced. When any medical practitioner gains more experience and medical knowledge, he tends to get into the private sector due to more monetary benefits attached to it. Also, surgeons in private hospitals tend to spend more time with their patients and satisfy them. Also, training of the private doctors is mainly from abroad which means more exposure, better knowledge of their fields and well prepared to take on their patients.

So if you are new to this, then your first visit to the orthopaedic surgeons in the hospital in Singapore. He/she will first get your comprehensive medical detail and history including MRI, X-ray as well as some other physical tests.

You need to decide which doctor to choose depending on the points mentioned above.

About Orthopaedic Surgeons in Singapore

Today people are living busy lives and don’t pay much attention to their health and well-being. With the world becoming a global village with changing needs and wants, everyone is struggling in their lives. With the result that respite and rest have become away from their lives. We are habitual of working day and night and paying no attention to body signals and signs indicating the arrival of trouble.

This tiring routine can very well damage the body parts, especially bone structures and anatomies. Bones are essential components of our bodies and mainly protect the entire body organs and act as a shield.

Any injury or damage to the bone or bone structure means injury and damage to that part of the body. If at any stage in your life, you feel being threatened by the bone injury, you need to consult a specialist for that matter.

Who is an Orthopaedic Surgeon?

Orthopaedics are surgeons that specialise in the treatment of bone related injuries and conditions and carry medical license for diagnosis, rehabilitation and treatment of different injuries and musculoskeletal diseases. This includes both surgical and non-surgical treatments for people belonging to all ages.

They mainly look after the joints, bones as well as spines from weakness/numbness, meniscus tear, joint dislocation, ligament ruptures/tears and muscular tearing. After thorough analysis and examination, the doctor recommends surgical or non-surgical treatment to fix the issue.

Main Types of Orthopaedic Specialists/Surgeons:

Orthopaedic is a diverse field and it covers a large number of areas like ligament, bone, joint, muscles etc. Keeping this in mind, there are some sub-specialities within the main orthopaedic domain.

  • Orthopaedic providing sports services
  • Orthopaedic treating spine issues
  • Orthopaedic providing Musculoskeletal tumours issues
  • Services concerning Hand surgery
  • Orthopaedic providing paediatric services
  • Orthopaedic providing foot as well as ankle services
  • Treatment of trauma issues
  • AR, i.e., Orthopaedic dealing in Adult reconstruction including surgeries of both knee replacement and hip replacement

Areas that require attention of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

When some orthopaedic surgeons in Singapore were approached to ask about their experience of dealing with different patients, they disclosed having faced common issues and disorders in these areas:

  • In the back
  • In Hands
  • Head side area
  • In the Tummy
  • In Neck
  • shoulder areas
  •  In the Limbs

Common Orthopaedic Issues in Singapore:

Some Orthopaedic surgeons have shared orthopaedic trends and related issues arising in Singapore on a faster track. They claim it to be owing to people not paying attention to their body signals and some leading busy lives. The common issues shared by some surgeons are as follow:

  1. Patients above the age of 50 years and so feel joint and knee issues, sometimes asking for rapid knee replacement.
  2. Recurrence back as well as neck problems, which also includes regeneration of the bones and joints in these areas
  3. In the case of small patients, like less than 15 years of age; Orthopaedic surgeons have shared using smart devices for the treatment of common issues.

There might be some issues that require first aid, where some issues end with the use of surgical procedures. It is an orthopaedic surgeon who examines and then decides which method to use for ensuring timely and early recovery for their patients.

Why Consult Orthopaedic Surgeons in Singapore?

Orthopaedic or Orthopaedic surgery is all about the musculoskeletal system. It is the main system which provides human with the capability to move back and forth using muscular and skeletal systems. The musculoskeletal system gives the required stability, support and form to the body muscles for making movements.

What is covered in the Orthopaedic domain?

In the category of orthopaedics, there are surgeries of elbow and shoulder bones, joint reconstruction, hand surgery, surgical sports, ankle and foot surgeries as well as orthopaedic trauma. The joints issues which come under the heading of articular disorders are the most common form in orthopaedic.

For the treatment purposes of musculoskeletal trauma, surgeons make use of both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Besides this, the same procedure is used for degenerative, tumours, spine diseases, congenital disorders and sports injuries.

When to see an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore?

You might not need to see the orthopaedic surgeon now and then. But, yes in case of any issue with the knees or any family history of a knee problem, the surgeon needs to be visited. There are some other instances as well when seeing the surgeon becomes essential. For instance:

  • In case you fell and feel pain in your knees, legs or arms
  • In case you accidentally twist your ankle and feel discomfort
  • In case of severe coughing
  • If there is any injury to any bone owing to some accident or sports activity
  • If you are 60 years or more than that
  • Females after menopause or having undergone oophorectomy surgery
  • When you are taking medicines like anticoagulant, cortisone or epilepsy for some time

Symptoms Associated with Bone/Muscle Injury:

The situation mentioned above may vary from person to person. You might also need to see some symptoms associated with these conditions, which means your visit to an orthopaedic surgeon becomes essential. Again symptoms vary with time and might be different for every person. Some known could be:

  • any signs of bleeding
  • swelling in any bone or surrounded area
  • any signs of a major bruise
  • if there is any bone protruding out from any angle in an abnormal manner
  • tenderness of the bone or surrounding area
  • If there is any pain and you find it hard to move your body part or feel pain when moving
  • Due to injury, there is a pin or needle-like feeling in the affected area
  • numbness of the bone
  • if you are not able to put weight on your leg owing to some injury
  • If there is any shallowness in breathing
  • Due to some injury in the ribs, you find it hard to breathe normally
  • When you feel snapping or cracking voice from the bone or feel it being ground when you fell or had an accident

It is pertinent to mention that the body responses to these injuries also vary and sometimes it could be healed at home as well. On the other hand, the need to consult the orthopaedic surgeon becomes crucial to see the overall condition of the bones.

In case of any above-mentioned conditions, you need to seek the advice of the orthopaedic surgeon for a speedy recovery.

Important Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Smart Toilet in Singapore

What type of toilet is in your bathroom? Is it a regular or a high-end WC? Regardless of the one in your home, you need to consider upgrading it to a smart toilet, as they have a lot more to offer.

With a good smart toilet, you will be able to do everything from conserve more water, flush at the touch of a button, and improve the looks of your bathroom. Read about the range of innovative and designer smart toilets here.

Granted, you have the freedom to buy any model of smart toilets on the market, but before you make a final decision, there are a few things you must know.

The following article by Qanvast sheds light on some 4 things you need to consider before buying a toilet bowl in Singapore.

Buying a Toilet Bowl: 4 Things You Really Need to Know

Yes, we know that the WC isn’t exactly the most glamorous bathroom fitting, but it’s hard to deny its importance. Just imagine not having access to one when nature calls and… ahem, you get the ideaRead more here.  

The information in the above article is surely going to guide you when purchasing a toilet bowl in Singapore. The article unveiled some 4 things you need to give careful consideration before buying a toilet bowl. Do you know that there smart toilets that can be voice-controlled with Amazon Alexa? Read the next article to find out more.

The following article by Domenica Tan is basically a review of a smart toilet that can be controlled with Amazon Alexa.

This smart toilet can be voice-controlled with Amazon Alexa

In a time where we’re inundated by smart devices of all sorts, maybe the only thing missing is smart plumbing. At CES 2019, Kohler unveiled an intelligent toilet with a bunch of features that you never even knew you needed in your porcelain throneRead more here.

The above article is indeed an interesting read that may have left you intrigued. The article discussed shed light on some intricate details about one of the leading smart toilets on the market in Singapore, the Numi 2.0. This jaw-dropping smart toilet has built-in sound speakers and can be controlled with Amazon Alexa.

The following article by Wikipedia sheds light on some intricate things you probably don’t know about smart toilets.

Intelligent toilet

An intelligent toilet (sometimes referred to as a modern-day bidet) is a bathroom plumbing fixture or type of electronic bidet toilet, which incorporates traditional bidet cleansing (for genital, buttocks, and anus hygiene), with the added enhancement of modern SMART home technologyRead more here. 

The above article is indeed an eye opener, as it unveiled everything from the history of smart toilets to the features they offer. The article also discusses how smart toilets can increase hygiene, save water, and reduce the use of toilet paper. Do well to visit any of the many stores in Singapore that sells smart toilets if you have questions.

Final note

Smart toilet toilets are becoming more and more popularin Singapore because of the amazing features and functions they have. There are presently smart toilets on the market that have inbuilt speakers and can be controlled with Amazon Alexa.

 As you likely now know, smart toilets are somewhat expensive, so if are on a budget, then you should invest in an average model.

Before making a final decision, you must consider factors like the size and décor of your bathroom.   

Buying the Best Smart Toilets in Singapore

Do you know that the smart toilet market has risen significantly over the last couple of years in Singapore and other parts of the world?

The reason why more Singaporeans are investing in a smart toilet is that they are super comfortable and they offer a lot of amazing features.

So if you live in a smart home, you should consider buying one as soon as you can. Doing this will not only make your home look good, but will also improve your hygiene, conserve water, and improve the looks of your bathroom.

The following article by Chris Barry unveils some of the best smart toilets in Singapore.

10 Best Smart Toilets: Shopping and User Guide

A smart home revolution is sweeping the globe, with millions of people adopting clever tech that can make daily life a little simpler. If you want a top-of-the-line smart addition to your bathroom, we recommend the Kohler VeilRead more here.

 Surely, you now know a thing or two about some of the best smart toilets in Singapore. You also now have a clear picture of how they work and what to consider before buying one. After going through the buying guide in the article, it is definitely going to be easier for you to narrow down the best smart toilet for your home.

The following article by James Vincent is basically a review of one of the best smart toilets on the market right now.

Kohler’s smart toilet promises a ‘fully-immersive experience’

CES has barely begun, but 146-year-old plumbing company Kohler has already stolen the show with what will undoubtedly be 2019’s hottest gadget: an “intelligent toilet” with built-in surround sound speakers, ambient mood lighting, and Amazon Alexa voice controls. Read more here.

After reading the above article, you definitely will agree that the Kohler’s Numi 2.0 is a masterpiece that a lot of people in the tech industry are crazy about. This amazing smart toilet features ambient lighting, built-in speakers, and so on. If you are curious about the latest trends in the smart home technology space, you are going to find the next article useful.

The following article by Allisa Noraini discussed some of the trends in the smart home technology space in Singapore.

Bathroom ideas: Kohler’s latest smart home technologies and where to find them

We don’t know about you, but our dream home isn’t complete without a bathroom that’s stylish and smart. Luxury kitchen and bath designer Kohler would concur. The American company seeks to continuously treat its customers to innovative, immersive experiences in the comfort of their own homes. Read more here.  

As can be seen in the above article, Singapore has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to smart home technology. The article also unveiled one of the best places in Singapore to purchase modern and stylish bathroom fixtures like smart toilets, sinks, shower, and many more. Feel free to visit the store unveiled in the article in person if you have questions or want to learn more about smart home technologies.

Final note

Presently, there are a lot of smart toilets on the market. While all of them are great and have a lot of amazing features, you must do deep and extensive research before making a final decision.

If you are rolling in cash, then you should try out any of the high-end smart toilet models like the Numi 2.0 intelligent toilet.

 On the other hand, if you are on a budget, then you should visit any of the many smart home technology stores in Singapore to find a budget-friendly smart toilet.  

Skin Tightening: Ultherapy in Singapore

In Singapore today, many young ones and adults alike are really interested in skin tightening because of the desire to delay the aging process. As much as people are willing to go the extra mile, they also prefer a procedure that will be quick and less painful at the same time.

Ultherapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound energy and targets the deep layers of the skin to improve the skin. Even though it is less painful, it could come with a measure of slight discomfort which will last a few minutes. It is a simple process as it has very little risk of side effects.

It is one of the popular procedures in Singapore as it is one of the most affordable skin tightening procedures. Read more about the different types of skin tightening offered here: https://www.priveaesthetics.com/prive-treatments/faceworks/skin-tightening/

Common Questions and Answers about Ultherapy

Q: What makes it different from other skin-tightening procedures?

A: Ultherapy uses sound energy, as different from the light and heat used by almost all other procedures in tackling the problem of weak collagen. Yes, you heard it right; it uses Ultrasound to reach skin depths that other procedures cannot get to. As soon as the sound energy reaches the very foundations of the skin, it helps the collagen to regenerate right from the tissues. The effect is also better because as soon as the tissues heal, new collagen is formed and the skin looks brand new over a three months period.

Q: I know that it does not involve any incision on my skin, but is it still a painful process?

A: Your anxiety is understandable. It is true that you may feel a mild sensation on your skin, but immediately the sound energy gets to the deepest layer of your skin, you are completely fine. The whole process can take as little as 7 minutes. Since each one’s tolerance level is different, the mild sensation is not common to everyone.

Q: Can I trust the process?

A: Yes, it is not just practiced in Singapore but in some 60 other countries. So far, over a million patients have been treated successfully without any case of damaged skin. In the medical industry, the use of ultrasound has spanned some five decades.

Q: How exactly does Ultherapy improve the skin?

A: It helps the collagen in your skin regenerate. The collagen is responsible for one-third of the protein synthesized in your body.  It is also responsible for the tenacity or firmness of the skin, thus giving humans that youthful look and freshness. As humans grow older, the collagen becomes weak and breaks down. The skin, in turn, loses its strength and firmness. That becomes evident as saggy skin either of the face, breasts, stomach, arms or laps. Ultherapy applies sound energy under the skin to start new production of collagen. The result is a toned and firm skin.

Q: What are the side effects?

A: There may be redness of the skin which may be visible but only for a couple of hours after the procedure.

Final Thougths

In Singapore, Ultherapy is available in most beauty and aesthetic clinics you will walk into. As you have seen, it is a simple procedure that is safe and effective for every skin types. It is surely a smart way of improving the condition and tightness of your skin.

Radiofrequency for Skin Tightening in Singapore

As we grow older, our skin gets saggy or in a more simple term, it loses its firmness.  It could be the skin on your body or face. The desire to stay fit and fresh has given birth to the discovery of skin tightening procedures.

In Singapore, a lot of people are really interested in beauty hence skin tightening procedures are very common. Most of these procedures when done right can stall or delay the physical effects of the aging process. Let us look at one of the minimally invasive procedures for skin tightening in Singapore: Radiofrequency.

How It Works

This procedure does not come with too much physical pain because it makes use of a heat controlled technology introduced into your skin as needles to heat up the skin. It goes through the skin to stimulate your collagen, thus tightening your skin. As you can easily deduce from the above description, it does not involve any lengthen surgery or use of the medical scalpel.

Collagen is a protein that is found in the subcutaneous parts of your body like the muscles, tendons, bones, and skin. The collagen provides tenacity and structure through its scaffolding under the skin. It is in abundance when you are below 30 years of age, which is why the skin on your face, chest, body, and butts are firm during these stages of life.

 As you cross the 30-years barrier, the collagen in the human body begins to fade and lose their structure. The effect these have is a saggy skin all over the body. The wrinkles on the face and other parts of the skin become more obvious.  The use of radiofrequency will use a special old-fashioned heat to boost collagen, thus helping it maintain its structure known for the body’s firmness.

The heat is made of the energy from radiofrequency which goes straight to the depth of your skin without interfering with the outer part of the skin. It is always targeted to the already diminishing collagen. The energy helps the re-contracts and tightens up. Over time, new collagen is formed and altogether makes them stronger.

When the collagen regains its strength the wrinkles start disappearing and the saggy skin gradually regains its firmness.  When done right, it is a perfect way of delaying the aging process, putting an end to the famous head wrinkles, laughter’s lines, and crow’s feet known with the aging process.

Since it is a rather painless, minimally surgical procedure, many beautiful models and those interested in keeping their pretty shape and looks for a long time in Singapore can readily choose this skin tightening method.

Getting the Optimum Results

There are a few people who think that after getting the radiofrequency method done once, it is enough to get the best result. However, professional dermatologists recommend that in other to get an all-round result from a radiofrequency procedure, it is best to go for between 6 to 10 sessions.

Even though that might sound like a lot of time, you can draw comfort from knowing that each session does not last more than 20 minutes. It is quick, easy and effective. Do ensure that you paatronise a registered aesthetic clinic for this procedure to receive the best care and results possible.

The Recovery Period after PRP Treatment

Injuries caused by a strain of the joints and tendons often results in conditions such as tendonitis and osteoarthritis. Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP) injections are used to treat various degenerative diseases and orthopedic injuries. This treatment is excellent for pain management, but how long does it take for you to recover?

After the injection, you may be sore of experience some stiffness for a few days. You should expect pain relief within three to four weeks after the start of this treatment. The recovery time is highly dependent on the condition. Read more about PRP therapy and treatment here.

In this article on hss.edu, the writer explains what PRP injections are and how they beneficial they are in healing of muscle and overuse injuries.

The Effectiveness is the PRP Injection

Bone and soft tissue injuries heal in many stages. One of the most exciting areas of research in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine involves making the most of the initial healing stages: inflammation and an increase in cells, or cell proliferation.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is becoming a more popular option for giving a biological boost to the healing process. PRP treatment has received significant attention from the media and has been used by numerous professional athletes. Read more here

After several successful studies, PRP treatment was found to be effective in various conditions, including acute and chronic tendon injuries. PRP therapy has also been effective in the treatment of muscle and ligament injuries. Studies have also been carried out on the effectiveness of PRP injection on knee osteoarthritis. This treatment was found to be more effective than hyaluronic acid treatment.

In the following article on health.harvard.edu, the writer looks at the healing power of PRP treatment and the concerns some doctors have about this treatment.

Concerns about PRP Injections

Harnessing the healing power of these blood cells is intriguing, but research is lacking.

Times have changed since the days of bloodletting, when doctors treated their patients by taking blood out of them. Now a procedure called platelet-rich plasma therapy has emerged that involves injecting a portion of the blood back into an ailing joint. You might say it’s bloodletting in reverse. Read more here

If you have inflammation at the time when you receive the PRP injection, you need to stop taking anti-inflammatory medication because this therapy has proven to be effective on inflammations. This treatment is also said to have performance-enhancing substance. If you are a professional sportsperson, you need to find out if this will affect your record. However, it is critical to note that major professional leagues have not addressed PRP.

In the following article, John Wilson MD discusses the efficacy of PRP treatment and factors that affect the effectiveness of the treatment.

Variables that Make PRP Treatments less Effective

PRP has been used in surgeries to promote cell regeneration since 1987,and a growing body of evidence shows it is a viable treatment for tendinosis. Not until recently, though, have experts researched and debated whether or not platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are an effective treatment for osteoarthritis.

Nearly all of the research investigating the use of PRP to treat osteoarthritis and other cartilage defects has been done since 2000, and the vast majority of research articles on the topic have been published since 2010. Read more here

PRP injection is useful only if all the variables are as they should be, such as the preparation method. Any changes in the variables will make the treatment less effective. The preparation method, the amount of PRP injected, and the frequency of the injections will affect how well the treatment works. In some people, PRP injections are sufficient on their own, while other people need to combine PRP with physical therapy.

Conditions that Can be Treated Using Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections

Platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) therapy and injections help the body to use its natural mechanisms to heal itself. The injections used are made up of the patient’s platelets. This therapy is used to assist in the healing of tendons, muscles, joints, and ligaments. The conditions that can be treated using PRP injections include muscle strains and tennis elbow. PRP therapy is great for Injuries resulting from the overuse of tendons and muscles.

In this article, Francis Burns Kelly discusses how PRP works and its effectiveness. 

How PRP Works on injuries

During the past several years, much has been written about a preparation called platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and its potential effectiveness in the treatment of injuries.

Many famous athletes — Tiger Woods, tennis star Rafael Nadal, and several others — have received PRP for various problems, such as sprained knees and chronic tendon injuries. These types of conditions have typically been treated with medications, physical therapy, or even surgery. Some athletes have credited PRP with their being able to return more quickly to competition. Read more here

Doctors believe that growth factors in PRP help in the healing process. The PRP treatment has been used on fractures, knee arthritis, chronic tendon injuries, and acute ligament injuries. This treatment has also been introduced as part of therapy after some surgeries to help with tissue healing. PRP injections are used in two ways. It can be directly injected in the injured area to jumpstart the healing process, or after surgery to improve healing.

In the following article on wikipedia.org, the preparation process, composition, medical use, and adverse effects of PRP are discussed.

How PRP injections are prepared

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), also known as autologous conditioned plasma, is a concentrate of platelet-rich plasma protein derived from whole blood, centrifuged to remove red blood cells. Evidence for benefit is poor as of 2016. The cost per injection is generally $US 500 to 2,000 as of 2019.

Evidence for benefit of PRP is poor as of 2016.It has been investigated for chronic tendinitis, osteoarthritis, in oral surgery, and in plastic surgery. It has not been found to be useful in rotator cuff disease. Tentative evidence supports its use in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Read more here

It is important to note that this treatment is prepared using the patient’s blood, which is placed in a centrifuge. This is done to separate platelets from the other blood components. This process lasts for about 15 minutes. This process leads to an increase in the concentration of platelets and growth factors by at least 600%. The platelets are then injected around the injury. The growth factors introduced in the injury promotes relief and reduces inflammation.

In this article on healthline.com, Rachel Nall gives an overview of PRP, including the potential side effects of using this treatment.

The Potential Side Effects of PRP treatments

Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is a substance that’s thought to promote healing when injected. Plasma is a component of your blood that contains special “factors,” or proteins, that help your blood to clot. It also contains proteins that support cell growth. Researchers have produced PRP by isolating plasma from blood and concentrating it.

The idea is that injecting PRP into damaged tissues will stimulate your body to grow new, healthy cells and promote healing. Because the tissue growth factors are more concentrated in the prepared growth injections, researchers think the body’s tissues may heal faster. Read more here

Before going for PRP treatment, you need to discuss with your doctor potential side effects. Since a substance will be injected into your body, you need to know some of the things that could go wrong. Possible side effects include infection, nerve injuries, tissue damage, and pain at the injected area. Understanding the benefits and potential outcomes of this treatment will help you to make an informed decision, depending on your injury.

Health Conditions that May Keep You from Getting PRP Injections

Although PRP injections are quite effective, they may not work if you have severe anemia, cancer or a problem with your platelets. Before opting for this treatment, you should discuss your eligibility for this treatment. Either way, doctors will conduct tests to find out if you can use this treatment, or alternatives are ideal in your situation. If your condition is temporary, and you are still interested in PRP, you may ask your doctor of the possibility of doing the PRP treatment procedure injection at a later date.

In the following article on yalemedicene.org, the writer gives an overview of PRP injections and the expected results after this treatment. 

The Outcome after Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a treatment that can stimulate healing and also prevent further damage in degenerative processes such as osteoarthritis. PRP often is referred to as an orthobiologic, since it is made from your own blood, and sometimes as regenerative medicine, since it can help to regenerate tissue. PRP may be a good option if you are struggling with an injury or living with chronic pain in your joints, ligaments, muscles or tendons.

A PRP treatment is a relatively simple process: Using your own blood, taken at the same office visit, the doctor uses a medical centrifuge to isolate a high concentration of platelets. These are blood cells whose main job is helping to form clots, but which also contain growth factors… Read more here

Even though each patient is different, and the injuries may not be the same, many doctors believe that PRP injections promote a longer-lasting recovery when compared to other treatments. The quality of healing is also better. For example, many people with tendon injuries that use PRP therapy have minimal scarring, if any. Progression of the damage is also stopped with PRP. Surgery may not be necessary after this treatment.

In this article by Paul Ingraham, the relationship between stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma treatment is examined.

The Comparison between Stem Cell Therapy and Platelets-Rich Plasma Therapy  

Blood therapy, anyone? Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections bathe troubled cells in a concentrated mixture made from your own blood. Hopefully this stimulates healing where it is otherwise failing — especially stubborn, slow-motion injuries like tendinitis1 — but no one really knows for sure yet.

Despite all the not-knowing, it’s easy to pay someone to do this for you these days: extract some of your blood, spin it in a centrifuge to get the platelets, and then pump them back into you. It’s not cheap, but PRP injections have become super popular, particularly with elite athletes… Read more here

Although stem cell therapy and PRP are regenerative therapies, they have seral differences. Stem cell therapy involves the use of generic cells that are not yet in use. In theory, these cells can become whatever they are required to be. PRP injections involve the use of mature, specialized cells. The similarity between these treatments is that they are both biologically intriguing treatments used for cell regeneration.

Here in an article on runnersworld.com, Scott Douglas discusses the value of PRP treatment on knee injuries.

How PRP Therapy Works on Knee Injuries

If you’re suffering from knee tendinitis and your doctor recommends platelet-rich plasma therapy, you might want to seek a second opinion, new research on the topic suggests.

In a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, athletes with patellar tendinopathy who received a single injection of platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) fared no better than athletes with the injury who received a placebo saline solution. Twelve weeks after the injections, those who received PRP had roughly the same level of pain and movement limitation as the saline-shot control group. Patellar tendinopathy is chronic inflammation of the tendon that connects your kneecap (patella) to your tibia, or shin bone. Read more here

PRP injections have been tested on sportspersons who have suffered from extensive knee injuries, especially those that have stubbornly failed to heal. After a few weeks, most of the candidates who went through the test reported a reduction in inflammation and pain. Although the treatment did not show a significant change from other treatments, the result was much faster. 

A Complete Comparison of Popular Non-Surgical Aesthetic Treatments in Singapore

Not only Singapore but the world is abuzz with the latest trends of skin treatments in the market. Three of the most famous are the rejuran treatment, skin boosters and volite.

The face is the most important feature of the body that is noticed before most other parts. The need to look presentable has dramatically increased with many getting extreme procedures done on themselves to look better. However, there is always a taboo attached with having a surgical procedure on so the new cosmetic treatments in the market promise many that do not require going under the knife. This is where the rejuran treatment, skin boosters and volite come in. All three treatments use injectable formulas that are applied to the skin. But it is difficult to choose from the three since they are much alike and so following is an analysis of what each does and how to choose it.

Skin Boosters

The formula of skin boosters consists of hyaluronic acid that is injected into the skin. The penetration is till the bottom of the dermis that supports the newly injected fluid. The viscosity of the fluid is kept very smooth that gives that to the skin as well. Hyaluronic acid has moisturizing properties, and gives the skin a healthy, moisturized and glowing feel that can be seen after the first 3 to 4 treatments, each with a 4 week gap. A touch up is required every 6 to 12 months. This treatment is mostly recommended for those who have a dry skin to plump it up.

Juvederm Volite

Like the aforementioned procedure, Juvederm Volite however uses cross linked hyaluronic acid molecules instead of the regular ones that improve the efficiency much more than using a normal skin booster to the skin. The results are staggering after just the first treatment till nine months. The skins hydration is thoroughly improved giving a healthier look. In addition to improving the hydration of the skin, the overall elasticity and smoothness of skin is improved. The Juvederm Volite is also used to increase the hydration of the lips.

Rejuran Treatment

This treatment process of Rejuran involves injecting polynucleotides into the skin. It uses a biocompatible DNA that is derived from salmon that is like that of our own. Modified and removed of all harm it is then injected to the face. It is suitable for those people whose skin has been damaged through the aging process, radiations and scars or just lacks luster. The rejuran treatment heals the collagen of the skin but rejuvenating the collagen, minimizing wrinkles and over all toning the skin. This treatment also requires 3 to 4 procedures done with a gap of minimum 4 weeks. A touch up to remove the effects of aging can be done after 6 o 12 months.

Conclusion

Each of these treatments is safe to use. The only bruising and inflammation experienced are by the injections that wears off in a weeks’ time. Prior to choosing which treatment suits you, it is recommended to discuss your skin type and the procedure that best suits it with your dermatologist.

King-Sized Mattresses: The Recipe for a Healthy Relationship in Bed

A good night’s sleep makes a person happier, healthier and helps one to perform better in all aspects of life. The health benefits of sleeping in the recommended duration of 7 to 9 hours a night is just as much as one gets from exercising or eating healthy. In modern times now, however, people have started sleeping for shorter durations than they did in the past and the quality of sleep has also reduced. The human body is made of muscles, joints and nerves that are continuously working, at nighttime they require a rejuvenating and repairing process that can only be achieved through nights of sound sleep.

Sleepless in Singapore: The Challenges

It is a known fact that adults in Singapore abide to the culture of working hard and majority are no strangers to working late. Singaporeans therefore tend to spend longer hours working than exercising or resting due to the competitive office culture. This makes the few hours of sleep a night to be of even greater importance in this country. To ensure a good night’s sleep one must have a enough space for themselves, comfortable surface and the right temperature. When one has a sizable portion to sleep in, they can rest better and this is especially true for couples who sleep together. For partners any movement made by the other can disrupt their own snooze and wake them up on a queen sized bed. A Singapore adult king size mattress is estimated 72 in × 75 in (183 cm × 191 cm) in proportion and ensures that both partners have their own resting place while at the same time sleeping together in the same bed.

Family and Room Sizes

Many people prefer a queen size mattress as the rooms and houses that the people own or rent may not have the space to accommodate a full king size mattress. Even to deliver one from the shop will require a lot of effort to get through the stairway, small corridor and finally through the door and into the bedroom. But, for partners or couples that live together in a normal sized house, personal space while sleeping is vital so that each person is completely rested for the next day. And this can only be achieved through owing a king size mattress.

Small children usually like to cuddle with their parents especially if they’re scared or if someone’s sick. On a standard queen, caring for sick child in the same bed means one partner sleeping on the sofa by morning time because there is insufficient room for 2 parents and 1 child in a queen size bed. It usually has 60 in width so each partner gets 30 in to sleep in, a child will just won’t fit through the night. And for those families who have more than two children, night times can get pretty hard. Sometimes pets also like to snuggle up with their owners at night which can also get really uncomfortable. A king size can give ample space during those hard times and ensure each person gets a good night sleep.

King Size Mattresses: the way to go?

Trends indicate that more people are getting aware of their need of space while sleeping in bed and hence king sizes are getting more popular. Internationally, there is a need to better and improve the variety and quality of these larger mattresses to cope with the rising demand and requirements of customers.

Which Mattress is the Right Choice for your Back Pain?

Back Pain: Ailment of the Technological Age

Lifestyles have evolved drastically over the last 100 years and the pace of change has quickened over the last two decades. Physical labor has reduced to being replaced with long hours of office work. Now, everyday jobs require a person to sit on their computers for prolonged amount of time and this has certainly taken a hit on the health of their spines. Singapore alone has more patients of chronic back pain than ever before and the reason can be attributed to the long hours of work and the posture that one maintains during those hours. The human spine is a network of delicate ligaments, discs, nerves and joints and is responsible to hold the weight of the whole body. And any rupture of the smallest kind of these fragments, can add to excessive pain and discomfort.

What can we do to treat back pain: Exercise

Doctors recommend the patients of chronic back pain to exercise regularly. This provides flexibility to the joints to move in a uniform manner when the human body makes any motion. If a person is unable to find time for exercising then they recommend to stretch after a period of excessive sitting. This way the muscles in the spine relax. But there is no denying that when a person lays down for a night’s sleep a comfortable surface is required to support the back. Mattresses that best suit the body of a person should be bought and used. Not every variety can suit every one. Wider people require a surface that is relatively softer while the opposite is true for leaner people.

What can we do to treat back pain: Choose a suitable mattress

According to research, medium firm mattresses provide the highest amount of comfort to patients with lower back pain. So when choosing a back pain treatment mattress, it is usually recommended to buy one that provides medium firmness. One of the medium firm types is the ‘memory foam mattresses. It is certainly becoming popular, but one downside is that it retains heat which can cause discomfort. But on the other hand, its surface conforms perfectly with the body of a person while they sleep, providing complete support to the back.

Nowadays, many companies offer to buy their mattress, use it for a trial period and refund it if it does not fit their needs. These offers must be availed because in some cases only a prolonged use can determine if a person with chronic pain would be able to recover after use. Another recommendation is to note down the model type after use at a hotel room or a friend’s house if it has eased the pain over a stay.

Pillows? Length of Sleep? Bedding Material?

Research has suggested that usually people who bought cheaper mattresses complained of lower back pain more often than those that bought more expensive ones. It can be contributed to the fact that usually more top quality materials are used in the making of such mattresses.

All these factors should be kept in mind while choosing a mattress for lower back pain. But, one ignored and not so widely known concept is that the type of pillow one uses and the way they are placed at night can also contribute to the health of the spine. Every night, medium firm pillows need to be placed right under the curvature of the skull to provide proper support and comfort throughout the long hours of the night. A little know how and care can go a long way so when choosing a comfortable mattress one should consider all the available options.

Ways to Deal with a Mattress that is Too Soft or Too Firm

Sometimes, you may feel stuck with the wrong mattress, whether it is too hard or too soft. Unfortunately, some retailers and mattress brands do not have a warranty or return policy. Your only choice, in this case, is either to buy another mattress or make-do with what you have, especially when you cannot afford to buy another one. Fortunately, there are ways to make your queen-size bed softer or firmer, as you save for a replacement.

Adjust your thermostat

Mattresses made of 100% memory foam tend to respond to the room’s temperature. If it is warm, a memory foam mattress will become softer. When buying a mattress, it is essential to find out what it is made of. This way, you can identify mattresses with allergens that will cause an allergic reaction. Knowing the type of mattress will also help you find ways to make the mattress more comfortable.

Use mattress pads or mattress toppers

Mattress toppers such as pillow-material toppers can be used to soften a hard bed. Your mattress as it is now will be used to provide the right support, while the topper is specifically for comfort. How much of the topper you will use is dependent on the level of softness you are looking for. If the mattress is too soft, mattress pads or firm mattress toppers can be used.

Use plywood boards

This is an excellent home remedy for mattresses that are too soft. Slip some plywood boards between the mattress and the bed frame. This will provide the necessary support your body needs. The number of boards you add will be dependent on how firm you would like the mattress to be. This is a great temporary solution that will work for some time as you search for a firmer mattress.

Flip a two-sided mattress

Some mattresses are two-sided, one side softer, while the side harder. This is a great choice for people who like to switch between a mattress that is firmer or softer, depending on their body’s demands. It is important to balance the usage of such mattresses since a side that is not used much tends to be harder.

Check the foundation of your bed

Although the mattress is often blamed for your discomfort, especially if it is either too soft or too firm. However, before returning the mattress or buying another one, it is best to look at the frame on which the mattress is put. If your bed has weak box springs, they may not provide the mattress with the right support. This will make the mattress feel too soft.

Sometimes, the frame may be weakened at the center, causing the mattress to sink at this point when you lie down. This posture may cause you to wake up with body pain, especially your back. If your bed’s foundation is weak, it may be best to work on it before considering a replacement for your current mattress.

These are some of the ways to make your mattress softer or firmer. Considering the cost of mattresses, it is a great idea to consider all possibilities, especially cheaper solutions, before opting for a replacement of your queen-size mattress.