Orthotics can be defined as a support, brace or splint used for aiding, preventing and correcting the functionalities of different moveable parts of the human body. For instance, the shoe inserts can also be called orthotics as they help in the correction of the abnormal and irregular pattern of walking by altering the angles at which the foot touches the floor surface. There are different types of orthotics including lumbosacral supports, knee braces, neck braces and wrist supports.
Who can benefit from it?
There are uncountable numbers of individuals from all across the globe who suffer from foot and hip pain. If you are one of them, you should consider using custom orthotics which can help in relieving stress and improve the performance of the muscles by allowing their range of motion. Regardless of whether the pain is stemming from any kind of injuries in the past or the continuous exertion of pressure in the feet due to your present job, there are many manufacturers who can offer custom-crafted orthotics for you. Even though a large section of the society is aware of the orthotics, many people think that these products cannot help them come out of their present condition. But this is a general misconception as orthotics can help people with different orthopedic issues.
The orthotics are not just meant for people with chronic or acute feet pain; it can even help individuals suffering from terrific pain in the hip region and knees. You can also consider consulting with an orthotic expert if you have issues pertaining to arthritis. Some people suffer from foot pain due to high blood sugar and orthotics play an important role in mitigating it.
How does it help?
The orthotics devices are typically tailored to the individual needs of people as per their unique health condition and complications. This indicates that if you are an athlete suffering from acute foot pain, you may receive different treatment compared to an individual suffering from pain due to inflammation or bone fracture. The orthotics are generally devised for ensuring that the ligaments, muscles, and bones in the lower part of the body are positioned and aligned correctly. This helps in easing the pain and reducing the stress from the feet which, in turn, can assist in improving the function of muscles with the passage of time.
Design options
When it comes to the material of the orthotics, you will be overwhelmed with the numerous choices of manufacturers and materials. And this can make your task of choosing one difficult. The design and structure of the orthotic can have a huge impact on a person’s feet and hence, it should be effective. If the affected person is a professional and goes through an acute foot pain on a regular basis, then the orthotics would need to fit the dressier shoes. And, if the affected person is physically active and aims to use the orthotics while training, then the orthotics can be fitted into the sneakers. There are numerous materials to select from such as polypropylene, thermoplastics, acrylic and composite carbon filters and an expert can help in selecting what would work best for a particular individual.
Many people switch to sugar-free gum from the regular variety, thinking it has no harmful health effects. Some do so because of ongoing health complications like diabetes. While it is true that chewing sugar-free gum may have specific benefits and could help one improve their overall well-being, it also has significant downsides. Below are a few important things one should know before heading to the store and buying a pack.
Ingredients in sugar-free gum
Many brands manufacture sugar-free gum, each using different ingredients to give their product a distinct taste and set it apart. While they do not use sugar, they use substitutes that mimic the taste of sugar. Some of these substitutes are artificial sweeteners, while others are derived from natural sources. Let’s look at a few examples:
Besides the above, sugar-free gum may contain chemical and natural ingredients that help provide texture, long-lasting taste, and chewiness. The ingredients usually differ with each brand.
Benefits of sugar-free gum
Here are three probable benefits one might enjoy from chewing sugar-free gum instead of the regular type:
Reduced tooth decay
Studies show that chewing sugar-free gum for a short while after meals may help reduce tooth decay. This is perhaps because chewing causes the mouth to produce more saliva, which washes away microscopic food particles that remain behind and fuel bacteria. Experts reveal that chewing sugar-free gum may also prevent or reduce plaque formation.
Stronger tooth enamel and reduced sensitivity
Since salvia has phosphate and calcium content, it could strengthen tooth enamel. Furthermore, chewing sugar-free gum could help curb teeth sensitivity, which often results from in-office tooth whitening procedures.
Improved memory
Studies indicate that chewing gum, including sugar-free varieties, while performing tasks could improve various aspects of brain function, such as memory, alertness, decision-making, and understanding. Experts also suggest those who chew gum for longer may benefit from reduced signs of stress, anxiety, and depression. While the exact cause of these benefits is yet to be determined, studies point toward better blood flow to the brain caused by chewing.
Besides providing the benefits listed above, sugar-free chewing gum can help avoid conditions like dry mouth (xerostomia). However, one should chew gum as a remedy only if they receive the go-ahead from their healthcare provider.
Disadvantages
Any product consumed in excess may have adverse effects on the body, including sugar-free gum. Chewing it may cause:
Headaches and allergies
Sugar-free gum contains aspartame, a highly debated ingredient among experts. While used as an alternative to sugar, aspartame contains a chemical carcinogen that could increase the risk of headaches. Some may develop hives on the body or suffer from gastrointestinal or respiratory issues if allergic to the ingredient. Therefore, one should speak to an expert before chewing sugar-free gum that contains aspartame.
Gastrointestinal problems
Some manufacturers use sorbitol in their sugar-free gum. When a person consumes too much of the ingredient, it may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal cramps, bloating, and gas. Too much sorbitol may also trigger diarrhea in some people.
Jaw disorders
Chewing gum all the time, including sugar-free options, could cause the jaw muscles to tighten. As a result, one may experience jaw pain. Chewing gum regularly has also been associated with increased temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ). Those with this disorder may experience chronic symptoms like soreness, discomfort, and headaches.
Dental device damage
Chewing gum of any kind may have adverse effects on dental devices. The product could damage implants, which could hamper one’s oral health and also be quite expensive to fix.
Besides increasing the risk of the problems listed above, sugar-free chewing gum can lead to cancerous developments in the body and an unusual increase in appetite. People with a rare hereditary disorder called phenylketonuria are especially advised to limit their consumption of phenylalanine (a component of aspartame) as their bodies cannot metabolize it.
Tips to reduce gum-related problems
Learning about the benefits and downsides of sugar-free gum can help one make better decisions for their well-being. Here are a few tips to reduce the risk of health problems from chewing gum:
Following these guidelines will help minimize the harmful effects of chewing gum. One should speak to a health expert if they have any questions regarding any ingredient used in the product.
Fashion is a powerful tool that can enhance confidence and transform one’s overall appearance. While it’s easy to assume that looking fabulous requires a hefty budget or a personal stylist, the truth is that with a few smart fashion hacks, one can achieve a stylish and effortlessly glamorous look. Here are some fashion hacks for men and women that will help them elevate their style game and look fabulous for any occasion.
Fashion hacks for women
Fashion hacks for men