Ames Walker Blog

How to Keep Your Skin Healthy During the Winter: The Ultimate Guide for People with Diabetes

Both diabetes and the cold winter months can be tough on your skin, and the two combined only increase the likelihood of dryness, flaking, cracking and other problems. If you’re a diabetic looking to keep your skin healthy and whole this winter, you’ve come to the right place. Follow these seven tips to keep your skin protected no matter how cold and snowy it gets outside. 1. Cover Your Hands and Feet Jackets and pants will protect your core from the elements, so don’t forget your extremities. If you’re going to be out in the cold, wear gloves with grips so you can stay warm and grasp objects without having to remove your gloves. Wear thick socks that will absorb...

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Compression Socks vs. Sleeves: Which Product Is Right for You?

You know that you need compression for your lower body, but as you begin your shopping journey, you’re confronted with a dilemma: Should you choose compression socks or leg sleeves? While these two products are very similar, they’re not quite the same. Below, we explain the difference between compression socks and sleeves and describe five factors you should consider when choosing between them. What’s the Difference Between Compression Socks and Sleeves? Compression socks cover the foot as well as some portion of the leg. They are available in many lengths, including ankle, crew (mid-calf) and knee-high. Compression calf sleeves reach from the ankle to the bottom of the knee; they don’t cover the foot but do cover the whole calf....

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How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays: The Ultimate Guide for Seniors

How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays: The Ultimate Guide for Seniors

No matter how enjoyable the holidays are, there’s no denying that they aren’t great for your health. Between the indulgent food, increased alcohol consumption, lack of exercise and inclement weather, you’re probably inclined to give up on your diet and other healthy habits until January rolls around. But don’t stop fighting the good fight just yet! Seniors can stay healthy during the holidays and enjoy the occasional treat without significant setbacks. If you’re worried about staying healthy during the holidays this year, follow these 20 tips to maintain or start your good habits in between all the indulgences. Stay hydrated. Water helps you feel full faster, cushions your joints, hydrates your skin and offers tons of benefits for your body....

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Understanding Compression Sock Levels: Firm Compression Socks

We continue our deep dive into the five main levels of compression with this guide to firm compression socks. We’ll explain what firm compression does and who should consider wearing firm compression socks. Then, we’ll take a closer look at Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), one of the most common conditions that firm compression socks are used to manage. What does firm compression do? Firm compression falls into the 20-30 mmHg range. (mmHg stands for milligrams of mercury, which is a unit used to describe the range of pressure that different levels of compression provide.) Firm compression is the first compression level that can help to address existing conditions instead of merely preventing them or maintaining already healthy legs. Some conditions...

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Exercising with Lymphedema: Essential Tips, Lymphedema Products and More

Lymphedema is a condition that occurs when one limb or part of the body swells. It may occur spontaneously, but it’s usually triggered by damage to the lymph nodes, surgery, chemotherapy and other medical events. Lymphedema may be chronic, and it can be mild or severe. While lymphedema cannot be cured, there are many ways to manage the symptoms. Combined with the right lymphedema products and precautions, exercising can help manage lymphedema symptoms. Physical movement causes the muscles to contract, squeezing the lymph and encouraging it to keep circulating instead of pooling in one place. Exercise also strengthens your body, which makes it less vulnerable to injury, infection and other potential lymphedema triggers. However, exercise routines must be undertaken carefully,...

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