October 2019

My husband was a firefighter for several years and during those years, he many times saw the need that existed for blood donors.  He started donating then and has regularly for over 40 years.  Have you ever thought about becoming a blood donor?   What are some reasons that you might consider donating?

People donate for a variety of reasons. Sometimes a friend or family member will ask you to donate for a specific person. About three years ago, my niece’s baby girl was diagnosed with a rare blood disease.  She needed constant transfusions for several weeks to combat the illness.  Family and friends from around the country offered to donate and many were able to help. Those who did not have the correct blood type or who lived to far away were encouraged to donate anyway to help someone else.

Some people just do it because they feel it is the right thing to do.  It is their way of giving back or paying forward.

Whatever the reason, the need is constant. It is important to help guarantee a safe, reliable source of blood for those needing a donation.  In order to donate, most states have the requirements that:

• You are at least 17 years old
• You weigh at least 110 lbs.
• You are in good health.

For those who have never donated, here is a brief outline of the procedure.  It usually takes about one hour of your time.

• Registration – you will be given the basic information about blood donating including the eligibility to do so, read some information and show your identification card.
• Mini Physical – you will privately answer a few questions about your health and then they will check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level present in a sample of blood.
• Donation – the actual donation time is about 10 minutes – you will be seated comfortably and staff/volunteers will be available for any questions.
• Refreshments -after donating, you should have a snack and something to drink in the refreshments area. You can leave the site after 10-15 minutes and continue with your normal daily activities.

After your blood is collected, it is tested for safety and the correct blood type to make sure the person receiving it is getting the safe blood that they need.

January is National Blood Donor Month as celebrated by the American Red Cross.  This month was chosen specifically because of the challenges that the cold weather present to having successful blood donation events.

If  you meet the requirements, feel healthy and would like to help others, make an appointment to donate blood this month. The good feeling that this will give you may encourage you to donate more often.

Please share a comment below if you are a blood donor and indicate why you donate.

Writer: Marilyn Rabe, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Franklin County, [email protected]

Reviewer:  Michelle Treber, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension,  Pickaway County,  [email protected]

Sources:

The American Red Cross (2015). Celebrate National Blood Donor Month http://www.redcross.org/news/article/Red-Cross-Celebrates-National-Blood-Donor-Month

Why Donate Blood (2018). https://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/why-donate-blood

Donating Blood – Topic Overview (2017). https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/tc/donating-blood-topic-overview#1

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July 7, 2016 by lisabarlage

Those of you who know me well will remember that I took about two months off this winter to recover from shoulder surgery (and a fractured foot too). Unfortunately for me, I couldn’t plan ahead to make recovery easier, as I fell, rather than having surgery for normal wear-and-tear. As I recovered at home I discovered many things that would make my life easier. I have started sharing these ideas with several co-workers who had those wear-and-tear surgeries after mine. Hopefully sharing those little tips with you will make your life easier too.

Pre-Surgery Prep:

• Do a little home prep by setting up a recovery zone – a chair or lounger that reclines, place for phone, remotes, table for drinks, medicine, reading materials, and snacks. Gather a few pillows, you will likely use them to prop your arm for a while.
• Place things at home that you use often at arm level, so they are easy to reach.
• Purchase flip-top or pump tooth paste, body wash, and shampoo. It really will make your life easier.
• Make sure you have a couple pairs of pull-on pants (yoga or sweat pants work, just consider if you need something you can wear in public too).
• Button front shirts work the best the first couple weeks, so either buy a few, borrow, or stop in at a second hand store. My husband wears a button front shirt to work every single day, he had a whole closet, I had one that was women’s pre-accident. Button front isn’t my style, so I wore his and eventually bought a few of those plaid casual boyfriend shirts for home. After I started getting out, I purchased a number of peasant style large neck blouses that I could easily slip on and wear to work, church, or out to eat (these were more my style, but I probably couldn’t have put them on the first week or two).
• You won’t be able to tie your own shoes, so either make sure you have something slip-on or get elastic laces for your shoes.
• Do the pre-admission testing they will require.
• Make sure you check with your physician about any medications you take, over-the-counter and prescription. They may advise you to stop taking them ahead of surgery, or you may need to continue them (just check).
• Review your insurance to make sure you have all pre-approvals, forms completed, etc.
• Use the pre-surgery wash they give you to cut back on the risk of germs. If they don’t supply one, ask or use an anti-biotic wash. It is recommend you use this a couple times before surgery and don’t apply lotion on the day of surgery.
• Make sure you have transportation arranged; you will have a sling for 4 to 6 weeks and be unable to drive. You will need rides to medical appointments and therapy, as well as the grocery or possibly work. I was fortunate to have family, in-laws, and friends who drove me around for about 2 months – with a fractured foot and shoulder – driving wasn’t an option.

When you get home you will need help showering and dressing the first week or so (maybe more). Find a friend or family member that will be able to help you – or consider going for a short stay at a rehab facility. Recruit help with your laundry, groceries, meal prep, and care of pets. To avoid blood clots, don’t sit too long – get up and walk to the bathroom or to get drinks. If they give you a compression sleeve for swelling and circulation – wear it. Do any therapy or rehabilitation that is advised. You may be like me and only be able to do a little bit, because of the break, or you may be able to slip your arm out of the sling for short periods of time (ask them what you should be doing). Once you start therapy, go and do what they tell you to, you won’t regret this decision. Using a stress ball or even pinching a large binder-style clip will help you feel better. I’m finishing up my last couple weeks of therapy, with a goal of being O-H-I-O ready for football season in September!

I hope these tips help each of you to have a successful recovery from your surgery. Feel free to comment with any tips that helped you, or other things that you learned.

Writer: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County.

Reviewer: Candace J. Heer, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Morrow County.

Sources:

Patient Guide to Total Shoulder Replacement: http://www.med.nyu.edu/orthosurgery/sites/default/files/orthosurgery/shoulder_0.pdf

The Patient’s Guidebook for Shoulder Surgery, Methodist Sports Medicine: http://www.methodistsports.com/wp-content/uploads/RCR-Guidebook1.pdf

August 22, 2016 by Pat Brinkman

Everyone thinks the elderly are the most at risk for being scam victims.  We have stereotyped that the “less educated, less intelligent, elderly, lower income, and less financially secure” at the most at risk for a scam.  However, according to a survey by the Council of Better Business Bureaus found roughly 30 percent of those aged 25 to 34 were scam victims and only 10 percent of those age 55 and older were scammed.

One of the co-authors on the study thinks the elderly may be more savvy about scams than those under 35.  Why is that?  For one thing the elderly are usually less impulsive buyers than younger people and are less likely to purchase online, where more scams happen.

The Better Business Bureau recommends two things you can do to help yourself and others.  One is if you are a victim, report what happened and warn others.  This will help you feel empowered as you gain some control in the situation.  It will also help others.

The second thing to do is learn about the latest scams and methods villains are using to swindle people.     Knowledge of what scams and the scam methods could possibly help people from being taken.

According to the Better Business Bureau the 10 Top Scams in 2015 were:

1. Tax Scam – Someone claiming to be from the IRS calls you and says you owe back taxes.  They say you have to pay now in order not be arrested or face legal consequences.
2. Tech Support Scam – Someone contacts you saying your computer has a security threat or a virus.  They claim they will fix it if you allow them to have control of your computer.
3. Sweepstakes or Lottery Scam – They claim you have won a prize but you have to send money for delivery.
4. Advance Fee Loan Scam – After completing a loan application online you are told you need to send a processing fee, security deposit or insurance to get the money (which doesn’t come).
5. Fake Check Scam – You receive a check but it was more money than it should be. You are told to deposit it and wire the difference, but you end up with no money and sending money to them.    
6. Debt Collection Scam – Someone calls claiming you haven’t paid a debt and you could go to jail, if you don’t pay immediately. Crook often claims to be with the government or law enforcement.
7. Credit Card Scam- Someone calls claiming they need to verify your account or a recent transaction. Don’t ever give them your account numbers and security codes over the phone.
8. Home Improvement Scam – Someone offering to fix what is wrong demands payment before doing the work. You pay and then the person never does the work.
9. Government Grant Scam – Receiving a call or letter that you have qualified for a government grant, you are asked to wire money or pay with a prepaid debit card for a “processing” or “delivery” fee.
10. Work-From-Home Scam – Completing an online job application for an alluring job, you are told you have to pay an advance fee for materials and information. They may take your money and/or steal your identity.

Check things out carefully before you get scammed!

Author:  Pat Brinkman, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension

Reviewer:  Susan Zies, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension

References:

Connecticut News. (2016).  New Better Business Bureau Study Reveals Widespread Misconceptions About Those Most at Risk of Getting Scammed.  Available at http://www.bbb.org/connecticut/news-events/news-releases/2016/07/new-better-business-bureau-study-reveals-widespread-misconceptions-about-those-most-at-risk-of-getting-scammed/

Eisenberg, R. (2016). Surprise! Millennials More Likely to Be Scam Victims Than Boomers:  A BBB study bursts the myth of the duped little old lady.  Available at  http://www.nextavenue.org/surprise-millennials-likely-scam-victims-boomers/

Steinberg, J. (2016).  Warning! Millennials and Gen-Zers are More Vulnerable to Scams than Senior Citizens.  Inc.  Available at http://www.inc.com/joseph-steinberg/warning-millennials-and-gen-xers-are-more-vulnerable-to-scams-than-senior-citiz.html

February 25, 2019 by bethstefura

Every day, the majority of us interact with a touch screen. Whether you are pumping gas, using a bank ATM, checking into your flight at the airport, paying your bill at the grocery store, or ordering food, chances are you are using a digital touchscreen. Those touch screen surfaces are a hotspot for bacteria.

Recent studies indicate that much of the bacteria found on them originate from people’s mouths, throat, gut, intestines and feces. Yikes! Personal cell phones and tablets are almost as bad; even though for the most part those two items aren’t touched by strangers.

Some of the major bacteria found on public touchscreens include:

Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) — This strain of bacteria comes from the flora in our gastrointestinal tracts and may originate after contact with surfaces in hospitals. An E. faecalis infection can cause fever, fatigue, headache, chills, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis or urinary tract infections. If it is present on a touch screen (or elevator button), it is most likely due to someone not washing their hands after using the restroom.

Staphylococcus — “staph.” Staph is found on the skin and noses of 25 percent of the population and typically does not cause disease in the person who carries it. If it gets into an open wound or is ingested, staph can cause blood poisoning, pneumonia, toxic shock syndrome, skin infections, and food poisoning.

Listeria – a foodborne, disease-causing bacteria that is often the source of food poisoning outbreaks. If left untreated, it can cause miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women.

The majority of bacteria found on public touch screens are contagious. While anyone can develop an infection, those with weakened immune systems are most at risk, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The best defense is to wash your hands frequently. Touchscreens should be sanitized daily. Wash your hands as soon as possible if you have to touch screens or surfaces commonly touched by a lot of other people. Regular soap and water (not antibacterial) is the best choice, but if not available a hand sanitizer will work. Protect yourself and wash your hands frequently, especially before eating.

Written by: Beth Stefura, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, [email protected]

Reviewed by:  Donna Green, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County, [email protected]

Sources:

https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(15)01068-8/pdf

https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ss/slideshow-public-germs

June 13, 2016 by Shannon Carter

What is yoga? The word yoga comes from ancient Indian language of Sanskrit word meaning ‘union.’ Yoga is the coming together of body and mind. Yoga is performing a series of poses and also about breathing and relaxation, which makes people feel more calm, clear-minded and refreshed. Yoga has been around for about 6,000 years, so it must work! We have long known that yoga provides many benefits for adults. But did you know yoga also has many benefits for kids? Yoga engages the whole child – mind and body working together. Studies show a correlation between yoga practice and positive outcomes for children and teens.

Physical Fitness

Doing a yoga pose helps to build strength, flexibility and balance. This helps add to the 60 minutes of recommended physical activity for children.

Mental Health

Learning to breathe deeply triggers relaxation in the body and brings feelings of both peace and energy. Yoga also helps to build confidence in your mind and body.

Academics

Children who are physically fit perform better in school than children who are not. Yoga practice has been tied to fewer discipline issues and better behavior.

Self Awareness

During yoga, one has to listen to his or her own body to know if a certain position is painful or too difficult. It also helps one learn to be more aware of the sensations in his or her body. Yoga helps improve concentration and can even foster compassion for self and others.

Want to get started with yoga for your child? There are many organizations that offer yoga for children. You might look for yoga at local recreation centers, fitness studios and community centers. Look for an instructor that has been trained specifically in yoga for children. Some schools even teach yoga during class as a way to teach the children to clear their mind and re-focus. You might find yoga in youth-serving organizations such as 4-H. This week in Columbus, Ohio, 36 Extension Educators and staff were trained by the University of Arkansas’ 4-H Yoga for Kids to teach yoga to children and teens.

Yoga for children tends to be a little more active, fun and even silly compared to adult yoga classes, but why not make the animal sound that matches the pose you’re in, like frog, cow, dog or gorilla? Children can do yoga by themselves at home, with family and friends. The whole family can have fun doing yoga together. You can try out yoga together with your child at home with a good DVD or online video. Yoga is a great way to be physically active and contributes to a healthy lifestyle.

WRITTEN BY: Shannon Carter, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Fairfield County

REVIEWED BY: Kathy Green, Extension Educator, Clark County, Ohio State University Extension

SOURCES:

September 25, 2017 by Shannon Carter

I love everything about fall… bright blue skies, the return to school and routine, crisp temperatures, apples, pumpkins, cinnamon spice candles, and the changing color of trees. I get so much joy from seeing the beautiful array of fall foliage. I actually feel more energetic during the fall. I tend to do more “fall cleaning” at home instead of “spring cleaning.” Sometimes, I even have enough energy to start some home renovation or painting projects.

So in the spring while many are doing their spring cleaning, I tend to feel more stressed by the busy schedule with my children’s school and mounting yardwork. I need to remind myself that spring is not my season to tackle cleaning or extra projects, and not feel guilty about my lack of motivation.

Maybe you’re one who struggles with the shortened daylight hours and lack energy in the fall. There are many who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. The degree to which people are affected can be minimal to severe. If you find that your normal functioning is impaired or you experience significant depression, you might consider seeking help from a doctor or mental health professional.

It’s important to know yourself and what season best suits you, in order to plan your projects and activities to match your energy level. So how do you know what your season is? There is actually a self-assessment you can take to determine your seasonality. But the main question to consider is: in which seasons do you tend to feel the best, or feel the worst? Do you have significant changes on your sleeping and eating patterns from season to season? Do you tend to be more social or energetic in certain seasons?

Knowing your season can help you adjust your activities and schedule accordingly when possible. For more ideas on how to find out how seasonal you are, check out this article by Norman Rosenthal.

No matter your season, you can follow these tips to help yourself during the less energetic times:

Eat healthy. Resist the urge to default to comfort foods, as the extra fat and sugar make us feel worse. Look for heart-healthy, low-calorie foods to help you feel your best.

Stay active. Try to find ways to enjoy the season, whatever it is. Exercise can boost your mood and your immune system.

Stay connected. Spending time with family and friends is critical to fighting isolation.

Seek help. A mental health professional can help you identify problem areas and develop a plan to work through them. Maybe you need to adjust your goals.

Written by: Shannon Carter, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Fairfield County

Reviewed by: Jenny Lobb, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Franklin County

Sources:

American Psychological Association. Seasonal Affective Disorder. Retrieved Sep 20, 2017 from http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/seasonal-affective-disorder.aspx.

Norman Rosenthal, N. How Seasonal Are You? Assessing and treating seasonality. Posted Dec 22, 2008 https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-mind-your-body/200812/how-seasonal-are-you?collection=106209.

Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved Sep 20, 2017 from http://www.ubcmood.ca/sad/spaq-sad.pdf.

April 4, 2016 by green308

The Easter Bunny came to visit a couple of weeks ago, and while he was here he ate some nice, healthy carrots. We need to follow his example, because his favorite food is actually one awesome vegetable.

A 10-year study recently completed in the Netherlands shows that carrot intake can greatly reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We all remember our moms telling us to eat carrots to protect our eyes, but our heart? Not so much. So this study is really eye-opening (excuse the pun, I couldn’t resist).

Research participants were asked to eat fruits and vegetables from four main color categories: green, orange/yellow, red/purple, and white. Of the four categories, orange/yellow was found to be the most protective against cardiovascular disease (especially foods with deeper shades of orange).

Participants who ate at least one-fourth cup of carrots (about 2-3 baby carrots) per day had a lessened risk for CVD, and participants who ate the most (one-half to three-fourths cup per day) had a significantly lowered risk.

Carrots have always been known as a good source of antioxidants in terms of their beta-carotene content. But they also contain phytonutrients called polyacetylenes, which help inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells. Cancer, eye, and heart protection—who knew the humble carrot had all that going on?

Planting

If you are putting in a garden this summer and have never tried growing carrots, this might be the summer to give them a spin. Carrots are easy to grow from seed, so the initial expense is minimal. For your first effort, consider miniature carrots.  They have small, shallow roots that are quite sweet and grow well in soils with some clay content (that’s us, folks).

You can begin planting carrots in mid-April. Start by loosening the soil in the planting bed at least 8- 12 inches deep, rake smooth, and then sow seeds about a quarter inch deep. Seeds should be spaced approximately two inches apart. You don’t need to plant all the seeds at once; judge how many to plant by your family size. For a continuous supply of young carrots, start a new row of seeds approximately every three weeks.

Harvesting

Pull carrots when mature in size and color. Twist off the long green tops to prevent moisture loss, and use a dry vegetable brush to remove any clumps of soil. At this point, there are two rules of thumb you can follow when it comes to carrot storage.

Some “dry camp” followers say to seal the unwashed carrots tightly in a plastic bag in the coolest part refrigerator and wash just before using. The “wet camp” followers believe carrots should be washed and placed in a container with water (which should be refreshed every 4-5 days). Your choice, but just make sure they are covered because carrots begin to go limp when exposed to air.  Most varieties keep for a month in the fridge if stored properly.

Written by:  Donna Green, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County, [email protected]

Reviewed by:  Beth Stefura, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, [email protected]

Sources:

http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0013609

http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scenea765.html

Babies grow rapidly and so do their needs. Children need freedom to explore, develop and connect during this rapid growth period—but in a safe environment.

To secure a safe environment, take a baby’s point of view. Get down on your hands and knees to see what is at a baby’s level.   Look for outlets, blind cords, small objects, hanging tablecloths, poisonous plants and other hazards.  Make corrections to secure safety.

Do a daily check! Be certain that toys and gear are used properly and are appropriate for your child.  Inspect baby items for missing hardware, loose threads and strings, holes and tears.  Discontinue use of these items as needed.

Follow these tips to create a safe environment for your child at every stage and age:

Sleep Safety

• Safest place for a baby to sleep is in a bare, fully functional, properly assembled, certified crib.
• Room share instead of bed share for the first year.
• Avoid placing the crib or toddler bed near windows with cords from blinds or drapes.
• When your child is able to pull up to a standing position, set the mattress to the lowest position and remove any objects that could serve as steps for climbing out of the crib.
• It’s time to move your child to a toddler bed when he or she begins to climb out of the crib.

Car Seat Safety

• Children should ride rear facing until they reach the maximum rear-facing weight or height allowed by the guidelines.
• Children who exceed rear-facing limits should ride in forward facing car seats with a harness.
• Children who exceed the forward facing harness limits should ride in a booster seat until seat belts alone fit correctly.
• Follow car seat instructions for proper use and don’t forget to register your car seat with the manufacturer.
• Follow your state’s child-seating requirements. The back seat is the safest place for children under 13 to ride.

Product Safety

• Never leave children unattended during bath time and avoid distractions.
• Never place your baby’s infant seat, swing, bouncer or car seat on a countertop, table or any raised surface.
• Always used harnesses and straps when provided, each time.
• When a baby begins to crawl, install gates on doorways and stairs.
• Always follow manufacturer’s instructions, warning labels and recommendations for age and weight requirements.

Be confident you are doing everything right when it comes to baby safety. Be safe!

Written by: Beth Stefura, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, [email protected]

Reviewed by:  Donna Green, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County, [email protected]

Sources:

http://www.iafcs.org/webcomponents/articles/events.asp?id=28

https://ohiohospitals.org/Patient-Safety-Quality/Statewide-Initiatives/Infant-Mortality-Initiatives/Safe-Sleep-Good4Baby-(1)

https://www.safekids.org/blog/5-tips-new-parents-during-baby-safety-month

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July 7, 2016 by lisabarlage

Those of you who know me well will remember that I took about two months off this winter to recover from shoulder surgery (and a fractured foot too). Unfortunately for me, I couldn’t plan ahead to make recovery easier, as I fell, rather than having surgery for normal wear-and-tear. As I recovered at home I discovered many things that would make my life easier. I have started sharing these ideas with several co-workers who had those wear-and-tear surgeries after mine. Hopefully sharing those little tips with you will make your life easier too.

Pre-Surgery Prep:

• Do a little home prep by setting up a recovery zone – a chair or lounger that reclines, place for phone, remotes, table for drinks, medicine, reading materials, and snacks. Gather a few pillows, you will likely use them to prop your arm for a while.
• Place things at home that you use often at arm level, so they are easy to reach.
• Purchase flip-top or pump tooth paste, body wash, and shampoo. It really will make your life easier.
• Make sure you have a couple pairs of pull-on pants (yoga or sweat pants work, just consider if you need something you can wear in public too).
• Button front shirts work the best the first couple weeks, so either buy a few, borrow, or stop in at a second hand store. My husband wears a button front shirt to work every single day, he had a whole closet, I had one that was women’s pre-accident. Button front isn’t my style, so I wore his and eventually bought a few of those plaid casual boyfriend shirts for home. After I started getting out, I purchased a number of peasant style large neck blouses that I could easily slip on and wear to work, church, or out to eat (these were more my style, but I probably couldn’t have put them on the first week or two).
• You won’t be able to tie your own shoes, so either make sure you have something slip-on or get elastic laces for your shoes.
• Do the pre-admission testing they will require.
• Make sure you check with your physician about any medications you take, over-the-counter and prescription. They may advise you to stop taking them ahead of surgery, or you may need to continue them (just check).
• Review your insurance to make sure you have all pre-approvals, forms completed, etc.
• Use the pre-surgery wash they give you to cut back on the risk of germs. If they don’t supply one, ask or use an anti-biotic wash. It is recommend you use this a couple times before surgery and don’t apply lotion on the day of surgery.
• Make sure you have transportation arranged; you will have a sling for 4 to 6 weeks and be unable to drive. You will need rides to medical appointments and therapy, as well as the grocery or possibly work. I was fortunate to have family, in-laws, and friends who drove me around for about 2 months – with a fractured foot and shoulder – driving wasn’t an option.

When you get home you will need help showering and dressing the first week or so (maybe more). Find a friend or family member that will be able to help you – or consider going for a short stay at a rehab facility. Recruit help with your laundry, groceries, meal prep, and care of pets. To avoid blood clots, don’t sit too long – get up and walk to the bathroom or to get drinks. If they give you a compression sleeve for swelling and circulation – wear it. Do any therapy or rehabilitation that is advised. You may be like me and only be able to do a little bit, because of the break, or you may be able to slip your arm out of the sling for short periods of time (ask them what you should be doing). Once you start therapy, go and do what they tell you to, you won’t regret this decision. Using a stress ball or even pinching a large binder-style clip will help you feel better. I’m finishing up my last couple weeks of therapy, with a goal of being O-H-I-O ready for football season in September!

I hope these tips help each of you to have a successful recovery from your surgery. Feel free to comment with any tips that helped you, or other things that you learned.

Writer: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County.

Reviewer: Candace J. Heer, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Morrow County.

Sources:

Patient Guide to Total Shoulder Replacement: http://www.med.nyu.edu/orthosurgery/sites/default/files/orthosurgery/shoulder_0.pdf

The Patient’s Guidebook for Shoulder Surgery, Methodist Sports Medicine: http://www.methodistsports.com/wp-content/uploads/RCR-Guidebook1.pdf

August 20, 2015 by green308

I’m lucky because the majority of my teaching time with OSU is spent primarily in a standing position.  But I also spend the occasional day in my office sitting in front of a computer. I would much rather stand than sit, so I finally took the bull by the horns and invested in a standing desk. If you’ve been encouraged by previous postings to do likewise, my standing desk “sleuthing” will give you a head start in the research department.

I have a fairly large office with a cool antique oak desk for non-technical work and a separate “table-like” desk that holds my computer/printer equipment.  I still prefer working on a desktop; I know laptops are all the rage but I just cannot work comfortably on one for long stretches of time. So my search for the perfect standing option had to “marry well” with my personal work station.

What Option Should You Choose?

You’ll be amazed at how many innovations are currently available for elevating your work station. I narrowed my search down to two fairly unobtrusive ones. The first option was an adjustable table-like desk, very similar to what my computer already sits on. Two upside-down, T-type legs with a top is the best way to describe it.  But unlike mine, an adjustable desk has mechanisms that move the legs from sitting height to standing height and back again.

Sit/stand desks are raised and lowered by (1) a hand-crank (the cheapest), (2) electronics, or (3) a hydraulic/pneumatic mechanism (most expensive). Electronic desks are currently the most popular choice for efficiency and cost reasons. They can hold up to several hundred pounds, and range in price from $500-$4000.

Since I already had a desk that resembled the sit/stand desk, I decided to go with option two, which is an adjustable station you place on your existing desk ($250-500 range). It is a great way to transform your regular desk into one where you can stand and sit. The station comes in different finishes and has a 28- by 24-inch base level that holds the keyboard and mouse.  A second, smaller elevated level holds the monitor.

When you want to stand, you adjust a knob that pneumatically raises the two platforms together, so they glide up to the proper level. When you feel like going back to sitting, you just bring the platform back down. The adjustable station meets my personal needs perfectly, but if you are interested in making a similar investment, I recommend you view multiple sites and read customer reviews before making a purchase.

Why Stand?

Sitting all day, every day, is bad for you. Dr. James Levine of the Mayo Clinic was one of the first researchers to document the hazards of sitting. Unfortunately, many Americans sit all day at work and then all evening at home.  But even people who exercise on a daily basis and then sit the rest of the day in their car, couch, and/or desk are at risk.  Sitting most of the day raises your risk for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and potentially an early death.

If your lifespan or risk for chronic disease isn’t enough of a motivating factor to get you upright, consider this:  standing instead of sitting helps promote weight loss. Replacing an hour or two of sitting time with standing time will help burn extra calories.  There are also posture issues, butt issues, and spinal concerns to consider. Whether your future includes a standing desk or not, please commit to stand more and sit less. Your body will thank you.

Written by:  Donna Green, Family & Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County, Erie Basin EERA, [email protected]

Reviewed by:  Beth Stefura, Family & Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, [email protected]

Sources:

https://www.reviews.com/standing-desk/

http://www.juststand.org/tabid/636/language/en-US/default.aspx

http://www.umphysicians.org/news/standing-desks-the-science-behind-a-health-trend/index.htm

http://www.healthtalk.umn.edu/2014/12/22/u-m-study-finds-sit-stand-workstations-help-improve-blood-pressure-reduce-cardiometabolic-risk/