Overview The word meningitis means swelling of the meninges. The meninges are protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. There are several different types of meningitis and they vary in severity. Although meningitis can be life threatening due to its proximity to the brain and spinal cord, it depends on the causative factor as […]
The Heart
A scientist found that horses’ heart rates mirror those of human subjects touching them. A study of 2,500 men aged 49 to 54 found that having an orgasm at least three times a week cut in half the likelihood of death from coronary heart disease. Over the course of a day, about 100,000 heart beats […]
Thyroid Disorders
The Thyroid Gland The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped organ located in the neck. It is wrapped around the windpipe just below the Adam’s apple. The thyroid gland secretes thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and growth. Thyroid disease occurs when there is an imbalance of thyroid hormones produced. This can be due to either […]
Neuroplasticity
What is neuroplasticity? Neuroplasticity is a relatively new and very exciting discovery in the specialty that is neuroscience, and it can open up a whole world of possibilities to those who may previously have been beyond hope of rehabilitation. The term neuroplasticity can be defined as the brain’s ability to change its structure and function […]
Splenectomy
Splenectomy is the term used to describe the surgical procedure of removing the spleen. The spleen plays an important role in the immune system and although the body copes well without a spleen, patients who have undergone the procedure need to take some precautions to maintain optimum health. Why Remove the Spleen? There are a […]
Neurological Disorders
Neurological disorders are diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system. In other words, the brain, spinal cord, cranial nerves, peripheral nerves, nerve roots, autonomic nervous system, neuromuscular junction, and muscles. Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis is a progressive and unpredictable chronic disease of the nervous system. The disorder occurs when the protective sheath that covers […]
The Defibrillator
A fibrillation can be described as muscular twitching involving individual muscle fibres acting without coordination. In the heart this is caused by the electrical charges that make the heartbeat become irregular and rapid. If untreated, fibrillation can lead to cardiac arrest, also known as myocardial infarction, and death. The defibrillator, if used as soon as […]
Body Planes and Directional Terms
As part of an Independent Medical Assessment, a specialist may be required to carry out a physical examination of the claimant. When the specialist dictates the report, they will need to refer to the body and the location of its parts in precise detail. In doing this they will use terminology of body planes. They […]
Common Knee Conditions
Strains Most strains are caused by overstretching muscles or tendons. Strains may be minor or severe. Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the strain but may include pain and tenderness that is worse with movement, swelling and brusing, normal or limited muscle movement, or a bulge or deformity at the site of a complete […]
Knee Replacement
Summary Knee replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is usually necessary when the knee joint is worn or damaged, leaving mobility reduced and the patient in pain even while resting. Knee replacement surgery is considered when all other forms of conservative treatment have been exhausted. The procedure involves removing all or part of the knee […]