10 Great Ways to Organize Your RV

If you own an RV, then maybe you’ve read the article “24 Easy RV Organization Tips” by RVshare.com that has 24 ways to streamline your RV and make life easier on the road. The follow are 10 of those tips.

1. Install an over-the-cabinet-door trash can.
2. Store your cutting board under a cabinet with magnets.
3. Install lightweight shelves in the cabinets for a more efficient use of space.
4. Store long tools with brackets, in your RV outside storage compartments.
5. Increase your closet space with a hanging shelf.
6. Install an Insta-hanger, which expands, from 1 1/4″ when closed, to 12″ when open.
7.  Airtight square canisters make the most of small RV cabinets.
8. Use a broom clip to store your flashlight inside the door, or by the bed.
9. Use hose reels to organize power cords and water hoses.
10. Build a custom storage solution for folding chairs.

BONUS: RV Storage Tips

When you’re not out adventuring on the open road, you may not have the space at home to properly store your RV. If you choose a local RV storage facility, use the following tips to prepare your vehicle.

• Measure your RV before you choose the rental space to make sure it will fit with room to spare for extra gear.
• Get your RV cleaned and detailed before storing it away to make sure it’s fresh and ready to go for the next adventure. (Washing & Detailing Available Upon Request)
• To further ensure the shine stays, an extra option is to give your vehicle a coat of wax.
• Be sure to change the oil and fluids if they haven’t been prior to storing.  (Available Upon Request.)
• Flush out the waste tanks.

Top Travel Tips

While traveling is commonly associated with relaxation, a trip can bring on a lot of stress. This article will give you advice on how to deal with those stresses and enjoy your time away.

• You can save a lot of money on your next vacation by purchasing a last minute travel deal. Many websites now offer this feature. When travel agencies, cruises, airlines and the like have unsold vacation packages, they offer them at steep discounts the closer they get to departure date.
• Go to the online visitor’s bureau of the city you are planning to visit during your trip. They will have lots of information on where to stay, eat, and what kind of entertainment options you will have, as well as special events that may be going on while you will be in town.
• Once you've dusted off your RV or camper at the RV storage lot, remember to bring along a bag for trash. Although it's a comfortable ride, you don't want trash piling up from all those fast food meals gotten along the way. Having the bag ready will help you to keep your RV neat and organized and make it easier to get rid of the trash when you stop.
• Do not bother packing your entire makeup case. Makeup cases are bulky and often take up a lot of room. Instead, put any makeup you anticipate needing for your trip in a simple ziplock bag. Put it in your suitcase's side pocket. This will save a lot of room when packing.
• Look at your health insurance policy to determine what the coverage is when you travel outside your own country. Chances are high that at some point, you will travel past your own borders. There is every possibility that you will need health care while you are away. Does your policy cover the cost of any health care you might need? You should know the answer to that question before you ever set foot across the border.
• It might be a good idea to pack a small bag of goldfish or bring a little toy from a fast food restaurant on a flight with you. Even if you don't have children, there may be some desperate parent that will be so grateful to you for your gift.
• Locate a restaurant near your hotel if you plan to stay longer than overnight. By finding a local restaurant within easy travel distance you will gain access to a little bit of local color.
• If you're going on a cruise, make sure you bring a small day bag with you. You'll find that your luggage won't be available right away when you board the ship. So you'll want to have a bag with a swim suit, a book, an extra change of clothes in it, and anything else you might need right away.

Whether you're traveling for business or for pleasure, you want to have the best experience you can. These tips will help circumvent possible issues, and will make every aspect of your trip more enjoyable. Soon, you'll be looking forward to your trip, instead of worrying about what might go wrong.

A Smarter Surfboard Fin

Surfers know the area they ride, also referred to as the surf zone, is a dynamic and scientifically-intriguing area that is hard to get data on due to the aggressive nature of the waves. This got some smart people to thinking. If they could somehow affix a smart device to the surfboard, perhaps in or on the surfboard fins, then maybe some magic could happen. Well… here’s Smartfin.

"By putting sensors directly onto surfboards, we can collect data and begin to learn about changes in temperature, salinity, and pH, which are properties that have huge implications for the species that live in nearshore ecosystems," the Smartfin developers note.

Smartfin is the result of a partnership between non-profits, engineers, and the scientific community. It is the brain-child of Dr. Andrew Stern of The Lost Bird Project. In 2015, researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, one of the world’s leading institutions for oceanographic research, came on board to validate the scientific application of Smartfin in the surf zone. Surfrider Foundation joined the partnership in June 2016 to provide logistical and outreach support for the distribution of fins to its network of surfers worldwide. (Excerpt from the Smartfin website.)

Imagine being able to help contribute to shaping the oceanic ecosystem while you enjoy surfing the waves as usual! Currently, the Smartfin is available on those with a Future fin setup, but there may be plans to extend that to other brands as the project continues.

6 Ways a Surfboard Bag is Worth It

You probably spent a grip on your last surfboard as you cruised the latest surfboard sales hoping to catch a bargain, and that’s just tossing money on the pile of all the cash you spent on your entire collection, which, let’s face it, if you’re even a novice surfer, you have at least two or three, plus all those surf fins and extra surf gear laying around. Long story short, you have a surfing shrine at your house, but it’s probably not a tidy one.

At least make sure your surfboards are wrapped up in surfboard bags for storage, travel or pretty much whenever you’re not riding the waves because dents and dings hurt your flow, and scratches 

don’t look good on an otherwise crisp and clean board.

6 Things a Surfboard Bag Will Save You From

1. DINGS - Dings from knocking your board around the house.
2. NICKS - Nicks from when you find that the dog was playing tug-of-war with your leash.
3. DELAM - Delam from the sun as you left it baking like a chocolate chip cookie in the backyard.
4. FADING - Color fading from too much sun exposure.
5. CRACKS - Tail cracks from it dropping out of your car while you take off your wetsuit.
6. SCRATCHES - Scratches from the cat that decided your board was a humping post.

Look How Far Surfboards and Surfing Has Come

Surfboards have come a long way over the many years since their inception. In fact, the entire surfing industry has come a very long way, bringing the entire collection of surf gear with it.

Let’s take a look back via the might and power of Wikipedia:

A surfboard is an elongated platform used in surfing. Surfboards are relatively light, but are strong enough to support an individual standing on them while riding an ocean wave. They were invented in ancient Hawaii, where they were known as papa he'e nalu in the Hawaiian language, they were usually made of wood from local trees, such as koa, and were often over 15 feet (5 m) in length and extremely heavy. Major advances over the years include the addition of one or more fins (skegs) on the bottom rear of the board to improve directional stability, and numerous improvements in materials and shape.

Modern surfboards are made of polyurethane or polystyrene foam covered with layers of fiberglass cloth, and polyester or epoxy resin. The result is a light and strong surfboard that is buoyant and maneuverable. The Polystyrene surfboard was invented by Reginald Sainsbury of Wilcove, Torpoint in the early 1960s whilst working for the Poron Insulation company, Millbrook, Cornwall who were looking to expand into the leisure industry. Recent developments in surfboard technology have included the use of carbon fiber and kevlar composites, as well as experimentation in biodegradable and ecologically friendly resins made from organic sources. Each year, approximately 400,000 surfboards are manufactured.

Great Surfing Quotes

"My passion for surfing was more than my fear of sharks." - Bethany Hamilton

"Surfing is attitude dancing." - Gerry Lopez

"Surfing to me is like playing music. You play different melodies with different boards." - Skip Frye

"Surfing's one of the few sports that you look ahead to see what's behind." - Laird Hamilton

"There are a million ways to surf, and as long as you're smiling you're doing it right." - Unknown Author

Advice to Make Your Dog Happier

Dogs have an uncanny ability to provide unrivaled levels of loyalty and friendship to their human counterparts, and are therefore a valuable part of the lives of many. The key, though, is for any dog owner to learn everything they can about what dogs need and what helps them live their best possible lives. The following advice is key for helping keep your precious pup healthier and happier.

Much like people in the United States, many dogs are overweight. Having a few extra pounds on their frame can lead to a number of health problems, like cancer or diabetes. Many owners simply overfeed their pets. Talk to your veterinarian about how many calories your dog needs each day so you can adjust their meals accordingly.

If your puppy or dog is constantly chewing up your furniture, invest in some chew-toys. Scatter them around the floor, especially around the legs of the sofa and end-tables. Be enthusiastic about your offers to play with the chewies with your dog to encourage frequent use. This should eventually deter him from chomping your furniture.

If your dog has fleas, and they fall off his coat onto your floor, vacuum them up. However, remember that fleas are pretty good escape artists, so you need to throw out the bag immediately after you are finished. To be on the safe side, tape the bag completely shut before you take it out to your trash can.

Make sure you have the correct dog supplies. Before bringing your dog home for the first time, be sure that you are equipped with the right supplies. Every dog needs a good sized food and water bowl, a collar and leash, toys, and a comfy place to sleep. Also, remember to purchase an identification tag immediately.

Exercise your dog frequently. A dog needs to play and exercise on a regular basis so that it can be happy and healthy. Not only will your dog benefit from exercise, you will as well. You can get a lot of much needed exercise and build a stronger bond with your dog.

If you do not have any ear cleaner solution on hand, you can use a baby wipe instead. Simply wrap it around the tip of your finger and wipe the inside of the ear's surface. Only go as far as your finger can easily fit. Do not use Q-tips as they can injure the ear.

Know your dog's behavior and body rhythms well, to keep him at his healthiest. Medical issues often present themselves in slight nuances early on and if you know your dog, you'll see them. Pay attention to input and output, sleep duration, energy levels and so forth to keep on top of important issues that affect his health.

Check to make sure your dog's collar is adjusted properly by fitting two of your fingers comfortably underneath it and pulling gently. There should be just enough room to do this and no more, otherwise he may be able to wiggle out of it. Always keep it on, except during crate transport, as the collar can get snagged and injure.

House-training your dog will be much easier if you adopt a routine. You should go for walks regularly throughout the day and come home during your lunch break if necessary. If your dog has to be home alone for long hours, do not leave a bowl full of water unless it is very hot.

Just like humans, dogs need to get a good amount of exercise each and every day. If your dog does not get the exercise it needs, it health will decline, and so will his attitude towards life. Take the time to exercise your dog for at least a half hour each day for the best results.

Certain breeds of dog are prone to certain health problems, and you should be aware of what's typical for your type of dog. Research the heritage of your pup and learn how to prevent any common problems. Your vet will be able to tell you how you can help your pet prevent illness that it is prone to getting.

It is hard to dispute the critical role dogs play in the lives of countless individuals. From providing companionship to offering legitimate service for the disabled, dogs can do amazing things to improve the daily experiences of humans. The piece above has hopefully offered some useful insights as to how any dog owner can facilitate this type of beautiful relationship.

Of course, if you’re in need dog boarding for a long trip, or just dog daycare for a busy day of errands, Google something like “dog boarding near me” or “best dog daycare” to drum up some great local options. From there, do your due diligence to find the right service that will match the advice above and keep your dog’s health in mind at all times.

House Painting Answers

Hiring a painter to beautify your home is a great idea. Googling “house painting services” or “painters near me” to find a reputable painter in your area is fine, just know that there are some questions you need to ask. Speaking of Google, here are some common house painting questions and answers.

How much does it cost to paint a house?

Painting an average home between 500 and 1,500 square feet can cost between $1,000 and $3,000. However, factors such as number of stories and ease of access can also affect the overall price. Homeowners report that the average cost to paint a house nationally is $2,581 and most pay between $1,714 and $3,682.

How much does it cost to paint the inside of a house?

The average cost to paint the interior of a house falls between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot. If you're doing the ceilings, walls and trim, the cost per square foot will likely fall between $3 and $4. If there is damage to the walls that needs to be repaired before painting can proceed, you'll pay extra.

When should you repaint your house?

In areas with intense sunlight, stucco, vinyl or aluminum siding should be painted about every five years. Wood siding may need to be painted every three to seven years. In regions where sunlight is less intense, paint should last four to 10 years on wood and 20 years on vinyl or aluminum siding.

How often should you paint your walls?

Interestingly, how often you should paint your walls largely depends on the room in questions. As a general rule of thumb, you should repair the hallways or corridors more frequently—every 3 to 4 years, than other parts of your space.

How long should house paint last?

On a stucco surface, homeowners can expect a good coat of exterior paint to last 10 years. Wood surfaces deteriorate more quickly, shortening an expected lifespan of 5-7years. In order to get the most life from your paint job, quality is a vital consideration.

Easy Home Improvement Help

We see the same scenery every single day in our houses, and that's why so many homeowners decide that it's time for a little remodeling. They hire a painter, try rearranging the furniture, and switch up appliances and furniture, which can seem like easy enough tasks from the start. However, many people find that they're daunting. No matter what your goals are, check out these home improvement tips.

• Safety first! Make sure you wear protective equipment such as a hard hat and goggles when needed. Use power tools (especially ones you are not familiar with) with extreme caution. Read the directions and ask for help when needed. Home improvement stores are a great resource of information.
• A great way to reduce your chance of mold growth in your household is by making sure your bathroom is well ventilated. Bathrooms that don't have a window or some sort of vent usually get steamy, but are unable to be rid of the humidity. Eventually this humidity contributes to extensive mold growth.
• Roof improvements can be an excellent choice for a home improvement project. Consider choosing white tile to re-do your roof. Tiles that are lighter in color can reduce the amount of heat that is pulled into your attic. This helps to save you money on your energy bills in the summer. Also, consider hiring local gutter installers to improve the watershed from your roofline. This will both protect your roof and your foundation where water can pool and cause damage if not properly controlled. Just Google “gutter installation near me” to find a reputable company near you.
• Self-adhesive drywall patches are a must-have home improvement. These patches come in many forms ranging from mesh drywall tape to those made of a polymer material. Press them carefully into place using an iron. Be careful not to scorch the patch or the wall surface. Paint right over the patch and you'll never know it's there.
• If you don't want to invest money into buying a slipcover for your chair, you can make your own from a bed sheet. Buy a twin or queen-size bed sheet from cotton in the color of your choice. Drape it over your chair, and affix it with safety pins in a fashion that isn't noticeable.
• Buying Thomas Kinkade paintings isn't your only art option. Three-dimension tiles can look really nice, as well. Three dimensional tiles set in two different colors is wall art within itself.
• To raise your home's value without spending a lot of money, take the time to replace your light fixtures. Light fixtures are one of the first things that catches a buyer's eye, and a dingy and dated one can change their opinion of the whole room. An inexpensive new light fixture will make the room feel fresh and new.
• For a unique and highly on-trend look, consider hanging flocked wallpaper on a large focal wall or in the main living area of your home or apartment. This type of wall covering adds texture, color, and style to any room, but is especially ideal for homes without children or in master bedrooms.
• You can draw attention to the best elements of your lawn or walkway with some accent lighting. When positioning large tree branches, this lighting can appear like natural lighting similar to the sun or moon on a darker day. You can also use this to put emphasis on your lawn ornaments and furniture.
• Older awnings over porches and windows can greatly detract from the appearance of your home. By removing them, you are updating your house with a more modern look that allows its distinctive character to shine through. Furthermore, you will find that more natural light enters your house through the windows, brightening the mood.
• When making a major renovation to your home, check into what kind of return for investment that you can get from it. The reason for this is that certain updates can be a bit of an overkill depending on what neighborhood you live in. This is especially important if you might be planning on selling your home within a couple of years of doing this renovation. If you do too much, you might not get your money's worth out of it.

Something that seems on the surface to be so simple can end up being incredibly complicated if you're not aware of how to handle a task. Painting can turn into a nightmare; adding more lights could leave you in the dark. The tips in this article will help you learn about home improvement, so put them to good use.

Business Tips for Home-Based Ventures

If you are one of those people that is a go-getter, then you're in the right place. Having a home business can be a very successful steady flow of income for you. Just make sure you have a pot of coffee on, the office printer humming, and that you have your thinking cap on straight. Now, look through these easy tips to see what you can take from them.

• When starting a home business, select a product or service that you are interested in. If you are passionate about what you are doing, the likelihood of your business becoming a success is substantially increased. As a bonus, you will enjoy yourself every day, and your new business will not seem like work.
• At the end of each day, set your goals for the next work day. It is up to you to build a consistent work system that will propel your home business forward. By simply setting up your goals the day before, you are allowing yourself to jump right into work immediately in the morning, which is often the time that you are freshest.
• Get the right equipment around you. For printing company literature, the old computer printer isn’t going to cut it. You need office machines (like Sharp copiers and multifunction printers) that churn out beautiful papers and flyers that will dazzle your future clients.
• Do more than your customers expect. One of the things customers love most about home business operators is the incredibly personal touch they feel when they interact with you or receive your products. Give your customers a surprise sample or coupon with their order. This does not have to cost you a lot -- but it will build a large amount of goodwill with your customers.
• Know what your competitor is charging for their products. Customers are not going to buy from you if they can get a similar product for a much lower price somewhere else. Make sure to highlight the ways that you are different and the unique things that you can offer to your customers.
• After purchasing and building up your domain name, use it for all email correspondence. This builds exposure to your domain name and makes your brand recognizable to the people you communicate with. It is a subtle, yet highly effective form of advertising for your home business. It also lends your business legitimacy.
• Go to the bank and open an account for your business. Do not use your personal bank account. This will help you keep track of your expenses and income. Your customers will be able to write checks or wire money to a business account, which helps them trust you and your business.
• Research government grants and loans that are available. Many of these support different areas of home business and there is likely one available in the field you are looking to start up in. Government grants and loans can be a great way to obtain start-up capital.
• You can join an affiliate business as a great opportunity as well. This will help to get the word out about your product or service so that you can continue to get new business. Be sure to research and see which ones will apply best to you.

Now get out there and make magic happen! It's only through trial and error that you're going to see success.

About ENT Physicians

Almost everyone that visits a primary care clinic has some sort of ENT (ear, nose and throat) issues. A trusted local ENT doctor should be consulted to diagnose any condition concerning the given area.

Otorhinolaryngology is a surgical subspecialty within medicine that deals with conditions of the ear, nose, and throat and related structures of the head and neck. Doctors who specialize in this area are called otorhinolaryngologists, otolaryngologists, ENT doctors, ENT surgeons, or head and neck surgeons. – Wikipedia

ENT specialists are experienced in treating sinus headache, swimmer’s ear, sleep apnea, and a whole host of area-related ailments. ENT surgeons perform procedures and operations that can help restore hearing of the middle ear, open blocked airways, remove cancerous growths in the head, ear or neck, and many other advanced procedures.

If you’re in the North Texas Mid-Cities, the Hurst ENT specialists at Saint Camillus Medical Center are standing by to offer unparalleled medical expertise and care.

Tips to Get Rid of Back Pain Now

Back pain is not only painful – it can be debilitating. The best way to deal with your back pain involves finding the best orthopedic surgeons in your area, getting involved in your diagnosis, understanding back pain, and learning the best methods for you individually. These back pain tips will give you a great deal of helping in finding your way toward pain relief.

• To get instant, lasting pain relief for serious back injuries, you need to get a prescription from an orthopedic doctor. Unfortunately, over-the-counter pain relief is not designed to treat chronic back pain caused by serious injuries like ruptured discs. If you cannot get to your chiropractor right away, then ask your regular doctor about getting a prescription for oxycodone or morphine.
• Unnecessary back pain can be caused by poor posture. If sitting or standing, maintain good posture. Lots of people assume that strenuous physical activity is the only cause of back injuries, but that is not the case. Sitting incorrectly for long hours, for example, when working at a computer, can damage back muscles over time.
• Exercise regularly to increase your core's strength. Make sure to focus on your abs and back muscles. Incorporate plenty of strength and flexibility exercises into your exercise regimen to help you keep your core strong and flexible, which reduces the risk for back pain to develop in the future.
• Take stretching very seriously. As we get older our bodies tend to need a little more time to get moving. When you get out of bed, spend about five minutes doing some back stretching exercises. This will help loosen up your muscles, and you will be ready for the day.
• Quit smoking. Among all of its other health risks, smoking can reduce the blood supply to the vertebrae that make up your spine. This loss of blood flow results in degeneration of the disks, making them more susceptible to injury and damage. This sort of disk damage doesn't cause passing back pain but permanent injury.
• Try not to stand for long periods of time. Doing this can cause a back injury because of all the strain that you are putting your body through. If you have a job that causes you to be on your feet all day, make sure to sit on your breaks, and when you get home you rest for a little.
• If you suffer from back pain, get out your headphones! Studies show that music therapy reduces disability from pain, anxiety and depression. Music can even have a small, immediate effect on reducing pain. Do some research to find out what kinds of music are most therapeutic.
• That painful tightening in your upper back could be the result of sitting at your computer too long. Get up and get moving. Walk around gently shaking your arms. Stretch carefully to try to loosen the muscles. Also, you can sit in your chair and bend forward at the waist and breathe deeply.
• If you suffer from chronic back pain, getting a simple massage can help to eliminate the pain and muscle cramping. Whether you're visiting a massage therapist or just relaxing in one of those massaging chairs, receiving a massage can help to loosen the muscles and subsequently relieve the pain of a back ache.
• One of the best ways to ease your back pain is to flip. Flip your mattress. The springs and inner build up of your mattress can settle over time. Turn your mattress clockwise. Next time, flip it completely over. By doing this it will help your mattress wear evenly which will ease your pain.

There are many people in the world that are dealing with back pain, and everyone knows that this can be a very difficult issue to deal with. However, if you use the right advice and do a quick Google search of “surgeon near me” to find the best local doctor, you will see that it is much easier than you think to get back pain taken care of properly.

Concerning Texas Hospitals

Texas has over 407 hospitals and 4,749 acute care hospitals – the most of any state in the country. A large portion of these medical and surgical centers are dedicated to serving major cities like Houston, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas-Fort Worth. And speaking of Dallas hospitals, there are varying degrees of expertise and specialty, so choosing the right set of doctors and surgeons for your particular procedure can become very daunting, very fast.

One such medical center in Texas, Pine Creek Medical Center, located moments away from downtown Dallas, is a surgical center, focused on providing acute and intensive surgical procedures for a variety of ailments. Visitors to this surgical center can get advanced treatments for such things as burning foot syndrome; those pesky Dallas allergies; any number of musculoskeletal conditions like slipped discs, fractures, and ruptures; in addition to any chronic medical condition they are suffering from.

Procedures at Pine Creek include the likes of knee replacement surgery (full or partial), spinal surgery, treatment of diabetes-caused maladies, sport-related injuries, pain management, urological concerns, complete foot care, and a whole host of other advanced methods of healing.

This public service announcement is designed to show that of all the 5000+ places you can go in Texas alone for medical care, not all are created equal and one should choose the right facility in accordance to their personal conditions. Not every medical center offers the specialty and care for your particular condition. Not all hospitals offer complete surgical services. In fact, strictly surgical centers are more rare and a family doctor or acute care center will refer you to a surgical hospital in the need arises, so perhaps it is sometimes best to eliminate the middleman and, if you know you need a surgical procedure, connect with the surgical center in the first place to save time, grief and pain.

Tarlov Cyst Info

Tarlov cysts, also known as perineural cysts, are type II innervated meningeal cysts, cerebrospinal-fluid-filled (CSF) sacs most frequently located in the spinal canal of the S1-to-S5 region of the spinal cord (much less often in the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine), and can be distinguished from other meningeal cysts by their nerve-fiber-filled walls.

Tarlov cysts are defined as cysts formed within the nerve-root sheath at the dorsal root ganglion. The etiology of these cysts is not well understood; some current theories explaining this phenomenon have not yet been tested or challenged but include increased pressure in CSF, filling of congenital cysts with one-way valves, inflammation in response to trauma and disease. They are named for neurologist Isadore Tarlov, who described them in 1938. – Wikipedia

Symptoms of a Tarlov Cyst

• Pain in the area of the nerves affected by the cysts, especially the buttocks
• Weakness of muscles
• Difficulty sitting for prolonged periods
• Loss of sensation on the skin
• Loss of reflexes
• Changes in bowel function, such as constipation
• Changes in bladder function, including increased frequency or incontinence
• Changes in sexual function

Only an expert orthopedic surgeon should perform your Tarlov cyst procedure. If you do not have a physician in mind, find one through a quick Google search of “orthopedic surgeon near me” or even a broader query like “surgical hospital” should be a great starting point.

10 Tips to Eliminate Back Pain

These days it seems as though you can hardly get through the day without experiencing some sort of back pain – and you constantly struggle to find the best pain management options out there.

Use this article for the ten best tips and tricks to help with your back pain.

1. Remain as active as possible during a bout of back pain, as it has been shown that activity is more helpful to recovery than lying in bed. Try to carry out normal activities, within reason, as studies have shown that this leads to a more rapid recovery than bed rest or back-specific exercise.
2. Put heat on any back spasms. Make a warm compress or get a heating pad and just relax. It can soothe the muscles and relax you. Stress can be a large part of back pain, so just laying down and trying to relax can end up doing wonders for you.
3. To avoid further injury to a healing back, avoid activities, which will add additional strain to the back. Shoveling snow or lifting heavy bags or boxes, for example, are everyday activities you should not engage in until your back is healed. If not, you may end up re-injuring the area before it has even had a chance to heal itself.
4. Maintain proper posture at all times to alleviate back pain. Many adults have pain from being hunched over and not even realizing it. When you are sitting or standing, make sure that your back is extremely straight. It might feel uncomfortable at first. Although your body will get used to it, and your back will thank you later.
5. It is important to know and understand whether your back pain is chronic or acute. Chronic back pain lasts for more than three months and is a continuous back pain usually from the result of an injury or illness. Acute back pain can also come from an injury and for other reasons and usually comes on fast and lasts for only a short period of time.
6. You may need to lose some weight if you're carrying any extra. Extra weight will shift your body's center of gravity and put stress on your muscles and tendons. This puts more strain on the lower back which can result in chronic lower back pain.
7. Chiropractors are able to try and heal back pain and prevent further back pain by realigning a person's spinal column. They are back specialists and therefore very confident in their abilities to help improve one's back and provide the necessary healing process. Chiropractors can be very efficient in helping you get rid of your back pain.
8. Back pain is a very physical problem. Pain is a physical feeling. Nevertheless, back pain can be caused by non-physical sources, such as stress, anxiety and repressed emotions. Stress and anxiety cause muscle contraction and stiffness which translate into back pain. Practice relaxation as well as a physical exercise for some relief. If severe, see a doctor.
9. Being overweight is one of the biggest causes of back pain in the world, so always attempt to maintain a healthy weight if you're fighting back pain. You will find as an overweight individual that as you begin to lose the weight, your back pain will lessen. The goal should be to keep fighting to lose the weight.
10. If you have chronic back pain and cannot figure out how to get rid of it, perhaps a new chair is in order, like a recliner or something softer than what you're sitting on now. A lot of people think that firm support is a must, but that's more to prevent pain. If you need to relieve it, go with something soft.

You know how bad it can be to try to get through a day with terrible back pain. Hopefully you were able to find at least something in this article that will help you to not only take care of yourself but also any loved ones who suffer from the same problems.

Extra tip: To find a pain relief clinic near you, trying Google searching things like “pain management doctor near me” or to research new advanced pain relief treatments search for “prolotherapy near me” to get a great minimally invasive treatment option. Stay pain free, my friends!

A Look at the Top Five Chronic Pains Experience

We all experience chronic pain, but there are five pain types that are reported more often than not by those seeking lasting relief.

Back Pain

Back pain is typically caused by injury to a muscle (strain) or ligament (sprain). Common causes include improper lifting, poor posture, not enough regular exercise, fracture, ruptured disk, or arthritis. Mild back pain goes away on its own in two to four weeks. Physical therapy and pain relievers may help ease the process. Medium-to-serious cases may require a surgical procedure by a pain management doctor.

Headache Pain

Headache is pain in any region of the head. Headaches may occur on one or both sides of the head, be isolated to a certain location, radiate across the head from one point, or have a viselike quality. A headache may appear as a sharp pain, a throbbing sensation or a dull ache.

Migraines, a serious type of headache, varies in intensity, and is often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

Common headache relief can be expedited by OTC medication, but chronic headaches and migraines require the expertise of a pain relief expert.

Fibromyalgia

Simply put, fibromyalgia is widespread muscle pain and tenderness without a known initial cause that is often accompanied by host of effects such as fatigue, altered sleep, and mood swings.

There is no known cure, but treatments have proven helpful. A group of Dallas fibromyalgia doctors at Pegasus Pain Management are seeing some success with alleviating the condition’s painful effects in patients.

Muscle Pain

As the name suggest, muscle pain deals with discomfort experienced in any muscles in the body. The pain may be experienced due to outside causes such as physical injury or simple overexertion, or internal concerns such as infections of the soft tissues or inflammatory conditions.

Over-the-counter medications and pain relievers can help with minor aches and pains, but for more serious chronic discomfort, a professional pain management expert should be consulted for treatment.

Arthritis

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints as the soft cartilage wears away and the bones rub against one another, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The condition is currently incurable, but treatments may lessen the pain experienced during flare-ups. There are different types of arthritis that each have different causes including wear and tear, infections, and underlying medical conditions.

OTC pain meds may help, but a medical professional should be consulted for more powerful treatments.

Quick and Simple Interior Design Ideas

Sometimes you want to shakes things up. Human nature, no biggie, right? And since you’re in your house the majority of your life, maybe you’d like to spice things up inside. Update with a whole new look. Add some artwork. Some fancy indoor fountains. New furniture that pops. Whatever you want, here are some creative and simple solutions to help you become a whiz at interior design.

One of the easiest steps in interior design involves painting a room. Paint gives a room a fresh look, and it can completely change the feeling in the space. Paint allows you to put a dash of your individual style in the space, and it is an inexpensive way to begin redesigning your home.

When considering an interior-design project you should think about starting in the most popular room of the house. Interior design can be both a lot of work and cost a lot as well. If you want to get the most out of your work and money, you should decorate the room that you will enjoy the most first.

Anyone who is designing a room in their house would be wise to incorporate hang up art and/or decorative wall fountains. Artwork and unique pieces do a great job of making your room look complete. Just make sure you choose a piece or two that meshes with the current decor of the room you are designing.

Make sure you have all the storage space you need. You'll never get a room that looks like it came out of a magazine if there's clutter everywhere. Look for attractive containers covered in a fabric that matches the rest of the room. When you make storage a part of your design, it's easy to make a room look fabulous.

If you plan to sell your home at some point in the future, try to use bland colors when redecorating. Bright colors can be offensive to some people, so if your home's interior is full of radiant color schemes, some property buyers may be turned off by your home's interior design.

Don't be afraid of color! So many people keep white walls in their home simply because they are unsure what colors would work for them. You don't have to go crazy with color--even painting one wall a vibrant color will change the feel of a room. If you are afraid to paint, start with throw pillows in bright colors and see what you think.

Create some elegance in a room using sconces for lighting. The dim light that comes from a sconce is considered to be fancy and romantic. You can also get them in a variety of shapes, colors, and designs so that they will fit in perfectly with the theme of your room.

Don't overlook the importance of texture and pattern in creating an interesting interior-design project. These two elements serve to enhance and highlight any attractive design features of the room and add a unique touch to your space. They also can help to balance the many flat surfaces, such as wood and glass, typically found in every room.

Instead of replacing your bedroom and kitchen drawers and cabinets, get new knobs and handles. Just a hint of silver on a handle, or a bright new knob, can bring old pieces back to life. Think about the atmosphere you want, and choose little pieces accordingly. You won't have to spend a lot of money, and you will still see improvement.

Try an accent wall. If your white walls are driving you crazy, but you're overwhelmed by color choices and are afraid you'll make a mistake, an accent wall could be the answer. By painting just one wall, you'll add a pop of color to your space without the risk of it being overpowering. Try this on the wall behind a bed, under a breakfast bar, or even the ceiling!

Make sure that you try to add as many accessories as you can to outfit the different rooms in your house. These can include lamps, colored fruits or different ceramic pieces that go along with the theme and color scheme in your house. Accessories are both fun and can inject energy into your design.

After reading the information from above, you can see that it doesn't take someone with extensive interior design knowledge to create a fantastic living space. With a little planning and some creative juices flowing, along with some helpful tips that you just read, you can finally give your home that updated look that you've been seeking.

Landscaping Tips, Tricks and To-Do's

Would you love to have a pool? Or maybe a few ornate garden fountains? Or maybe a waterfall and small creek? Is it just a bed of flowers you desire? Whatever you want to have in your yard, simple landscaping strategies can get you there. Read on for the advice you need to create a yard that makes you smile.

To help you landscape your home garden, draw a sketch before beginning your plans. Place trees where you want them, outdoor fountains where you’d like them and even place potential furniture in their spots – just to get an idea. By sketching out the details of your space with accurate scaling, you will get a better perspective on what you can fit into your space, what types of plants or accessories are appropriate and the various layout options you can experiment with.

Choose native plants for your yard. Local plants are simpler to take care of since they are used to the soil. This also means they will be low-maintenance. You will find excellent information on native plants by talking to someone at your local gardening store.

When planning a landscaping project for your home, be sure that you try to completely estimate all of the costs involved. This is critical. Not only do you want to make sure that you are not stuck on a project that you cannot finish, but you also will be able to plan out what materials you need before going to the store.

Gather landscaping ideas from home and garden magazines. These magazines often showcase the most beautiful homes, and the most beautiful gardens. Though you might not be able to completely copy the look that you find in the magazine, you can gain inspiration which will help you to end up with a finished product that you are proud of.

You will find it daunting to try and landscape your whole yard at one time. It is a good idea to divide your project into phases, this will be much easier on your budget. You will also be able to make any changes that you think of without having to re-do the whole project.

As you're paying attention to price, make sure you are considering quality just as closely. You don't want to pay the highest price for your materials and plants. However, remember that with cheaper prices sometimes comes lesser quality and selection. Cut corners where you need to in order to offset other purchases you might need to make as well.

A great way to determine which plants you want to include in your landscaping is to visit a gardening center. This will allow you to view a variety of plant life so that you can determine which plants best fit your style. Visit your local gardening center to help you make your landscaping as beautiful as possible.

Go ahead and add in more than one or two different kinds of plants in your landscape. By doing this, you protect your lawn from diseases or insect infestation. All of the same type of plants can be vulnerable to an attack if that's all you have. Diversity in landscaping is vital to plant health.

Whenever you are trying to determine what types of plants to include in your landscaping project, you should always consider things like sunlight, wind direction and strength, and soil alkalinity. These factors will help narrow down your options so that you can choose plants that will thrive in your landscape.

Plan your landscape so it looks nice year round. You can achieve this by planting a selection of different species that will blossom at different times. You can also use hearty greenery, such as pine trees, to keep your landscape attractive in winter. Learning more about the different plants available is what makes a beautiful year-round display possible.

Everyone loves different things, from the sound of running water to watching squirrels play in the yard. That means that everyone also needs to draft different plans to meet their landscaping needs. However, all of the tips in this article can benefit anyone who wants to make a change. Keep these ideas in mind, as you make your dreams come true!