News

A sore throat can be very unpleasant. Some people are particularly prone to it and suffer from it at least once a year. Here’s what you can do if you have a sore throat. What are the symptoms of a sore throat? The way a sore throat presents itself can vary from person to person. Sometimes the symptoms are mild, and sometimes they’re very obvious. These are common symptoms: Pain or a burning sensation in the throat, particularly when swallowing Difficulty swallowing White spots Red and swollen throat Hoarse voice Swollen glands in the neck Feeling unwell or tired Mild fever Headache or muscle ache Sometimes you may also have a cold, which can cause a cough or a runny nose. If you have a high fever or severe difficulty swallowing, contact your GP. In many cases, a sore throat clears up on its own. How long does a sore throat last? The duration of the infection varies from person to person and depends mainly on your immune system. In most cases, it lasts around 3–7 days, with symptoms easing if you get plenty of rest. If you do not look after yourself properly and do not eat healthily or get enough rest, recovery may take longer. If it has not cleared up after 7–10 days, contact a doctor. How can you tell the difference between a sore throat and a throat infection? A sore throat and a throat infection can be quite confusing. An early-stage throat infection can also be mistaken for a sore throat or a common cold. You can usually recognise a sore throat by simple symptoms such as a scratchy feeling and a hoarse voice. Laryngitis, on the other hand, causes more symptoms, such as white spots, a swollen throat, swollen glands or even a fever. Is a throat infection contagious? It can be contagious if it’s caused by a bacterium or virus. If your immune system is weak, you’re more likely to catch it. On the other hand, there’s also a non-contagious form, which is often caused by dry air, smoking or talking a lot. Fortunately, both types can be treated effectively at home. 7 tips for treating a sore throat at home Wondering what to do about a sore throat? Read on to find out what you can do yourself to make your recovery easier and more comfortable. 1. Get plenty of rest When you have a sore throat, your body needs time to recover. So take it as easy as possible, get plenty of sleep and avoid strenuous activity as much as you can. 2. Keep your throat moist Drink plenty of water, stock or tea to keep your throat moist and to help your body recover. Avoid alcohol and coffee for the time being, as these can cause further dehydration. 3. Gargle with salt water Gargle with salt water a few times a day to soothe your throat and reduce irritation. Dissolve half a teaspoon in warm water and then spit it out. 4. Eat soft foods for a while To prevent further irritation, it’s best to stick to soft foods for a while, such as yoghurt, soup or puréed food. This also helps if swallowing is painful. 5. Soothe your throat Help soothe your throat even further with, for example, tea with honey, warm milk or lozenges. This can temporarily ease the pain and aid a smoother recovery. 6. Increase the humidity in your home Dry air can worsen symptoms and thus hinder recovery. Use a humidifier at home or place bowls of water near all the radiators in your home. 7. Use red light therapy Use red light therapy to stimulate blood flow and aid the recovery of the mucous membranes in your throat. You can treat yourself at home to promote recovery and relieve pain. How does red light therapy help with a sore throat? Red light therapy works by using specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the tissues. This improves blood circulation and stimulates the healing process. In the case of a sore throat, this can help by reducing inflammation more quickly, soothing pain and shortening the recovery time. If you regularly suffer from a sore throat or are prone to inflammation, it can also help as a preventative measure. There are various forms of red light therapy that are effective for this: Intranasal red light therapy: where you use red light via the nose. This not only improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation, but also strengthens the immune system. As a result, you can prevent inflammation altogether, or the inflammation will be less severe and you’ll recover more quickly. The IN-light Pro is an intranasal red light therapy laser that is ideal for this purpose. Localised red light therapy: where you use red light with a handheld device to treat specific areas. This helps to improve local blood circulation, reduce inflammation and promote healing in the specific area. The PowerCure Pro is a red light therapy device that is ideal for this purpose. PowerCure red light therapy for a sore throat The PowerCure Pro laser is a red light therapy device that you can use to treat a sore throat in a targeted manner. What’s more, it’s not only effective for this condition, but also for a whole host of other complaints and conditions, for both humans and animals! You can use the PowerCure Pro laser yourself, allowing you to carry out treatment at your own pace. View the PowerCure Pro laser

Rehabilitation following hip surgery is a difficult time for many people. The recovery process can take months and is usually not easy. That’s why this article sets out some things you can do to make your rehabilitation a little more comfortable. How long does rehabilitation take after hip surgery? Recovery after hip surgery is different for everyone. On average, it takes 3 to 6 months before you can move freely again, but recovery happens in stages and requires a great deal of patience and proper guidance. Recovering at home after hip surgery also requires plenty of help and a lot of time. For older people, the recovery process can sometimes be a little more difficult. For the first 6 weeks, the focus is on wound healing and regaining the ability to move safely. After that, you can often start focusing more on muscle strength and activity, and after 3 to 6 months, many people feel they can move more freely again. It is important to remember, however, that everyone recovers at their own pace, and that you should always listen carefully to your body. Overuse after hip surgery is therefore something you must avoid, as this can lead to more symptoms and pain. How long will the pain last? It is very normal to experience pain in the first few weeks after hip surgery. Many people start off walking unsteadily and with a wobble, and still suffer from muscle weakness and stiffness. The pain often subsides significantly after 6 weeks, but some people experience persistent pain following hip surgery. Always discuss your symptoms with a physiotherapist or doctor. There are also things you can do yourself to ensure the rehabilitation process goes smoothly. How to make the rehabilitation process after hip surgery more comfortable 1. Follow the advice of your doctor or physiotherapist Although it can sometimes be difficult to sit still when you want to move, it is important to follow the advice given. This will prevent your symptoms from getting worse or your recovery from being delayed. 2. Take time to recover Give your body time and rest, as recovery takes energy. Rest is just as important as exercises such as strength training after hip surgery. 3. Gradually build up your daily activities Take small steps for a steady recovery. If you try to rush things, it can actually be counterproductive. 4. Listen to your body’s signals Always listen to your body. If you experience persistent pain, swelling or difficulty moving, you need to be extra careful. It might be better to continue using crutches after your hip operation and avoid climbing stairs for the time being. 5. Make use of red light therapy Red light therapy aids the recovery process for many people. It can be used effectively as a complementary treatment to reduce pain, relax muscles and promote wound healing. These days, you can do this yourself, right from the comfort of your own home. How does red light therapy help with recovery from hip surgery? Red light therapy can provide supportive assistance with recovery following hip surgery. The light penetrates the skin and muscles, where it stimulates cellular energy, which can promote tissue repair and help relax the muscles around the hip. Many people find that this makes for a more comfortable recovery process. These are the benefits of red light therapy following hip surgery: Reduced stiffness and a nagging sensation during movement Improved relaxation of the muscles around the hip Support for the natural recovery process of muscles and tissue More comfortable and pleasant movement during rehabilitation It is important to note that red light therapy, such as PowerCure, is always a complement to standard care and physiotherapy. It does not replace medical treatment, but can make the recovery process much more comfortable. PowerCure red light therapy following hip surgery The PowerCure Pro laser is a red light therapy device that can offer the benefits listed above. You can purchase this device yourself for use at home. View the PowerCure laser

If your cuticles are inflamed, you’ll know just how uncomfortable it feels. Treating this inflammation can be quite tricky, and it often keeps coming back. Here’s how you can treat your inflamed cuticles. What causes an inflamed cuticle? An inflamed cuticle is almost always caused by bacteria. These bacteria often enter the skin through a break in the skin, such as a cut or a flake of skin. These are common causes: Cuts or flaky skin caused by nail-biting or picking Dry cuticles caused by the cold, cleaning products or frequent hand-washing Nail-biting or thumb-sucking Fluid or dirt becoming trapped under or around the nail Even a small flake of skin or a tiny tear can be enough to cause an infection. You should therefore always pay close attention to your hygiene and any habits that might lead to this. How long can an inflamed cuticle last? This inflammation should ideally last no longer than a week. With the right care, the symptoms should improve significantly. It should start to ease within a few days and is usually largely gone within a week. If this isn’t the case, or if the inflammation keeps coming back, it’s important to take extra care of the area. What should you avoid doing if you have an inflamed cuticle? There are certainly a number of things you should avoid doing if your cuticle is inflamed. Some habits can actually make the inflammation and painful cuticle worse. You should avoid doing the following: Cutting or removing the cuticles, even with special clippers or scissors Picking at your fingers Squeezing out pus Biting or chewing your nails Using harsh substances such as strong soap, alcohol or acetone Keeping the area wet Is it advisable to soak your cuticles if they’re inflamed? If your cuticles are inflamed, it’s important not to soak them for too long. This includes soaking them in a soda bath, even though this is sometimes recommended. Soaking for a few minutes can sometimes help to remove dirt and soften the skin, but doing this for too long can actually be counterproductive. This is because the skin can become too soft and fragile, giving bacteria a better chance of making the inflammation worse. Source: Pexels 6 things to do if your cuticles are inflamed 1. Keep your hands thoroughly dry and clean Gently rinse your fingers once a day with lukewarm water. This removes dirt and bacteria. Always dry them thoroughly afterwards to avoid making the condition worse. 2. Use cuticle oil You can look after your cuticles properly with the right cuticle oil. A nourishing oil such as almond or jojoba oil keeps them supple and prevents dryness and cracks. Gently rub the oil into your fingers, but don’t press too hard if your cuticles are still sore or red. 3. Apply a restorative hand or cuticle cream Use a cream containing soothing ingredients such as shea butter to help the skin heal. This is important not only to keep bacteria at bay, but also to prevent minor cuts or tears. 4. Use a drawing ointment A drawing ointment for an inflamed cuticle can help if you’re experiencing pus or a throbbing, tight sensation around the nail. This can help bring the inflammation to the surface. Only use this if other solutions aren’t working well, and cover your fingers with a plaster if necessary. 5. Protect your hands Do you do a lot of work with your hands? If so, cover your hands whenever possible. For example, wear gloves when gardening, cleaning or washing up. This will prevent your cuticles from becoming damaged or the irritation from recurring. 6. Use red light therapy Use red light therapy on your fingers. This supports the skin and helps reduce inflammation and irritation. Just a few minutes a day can help treat damaged cuticles, or even prevent them from occurring in the first place. How does red light therapy help with inflamed cuticles? Red light therapy helps with inflamed cuticles by stimulating healing. Here’s exactly what it can do: Reduces inflammation by calming the inflammatory process. This reduces swelling and sensitivity. It stimulates blood flow, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the damaged tissue more quickly and speeding up recovery. It supports the skin cells’ ability to heal, helping small wounds to close more quickly. It reduces pain and a feeling of pressure. Red light can be an effective treatment for inflamed cuticles. Not only does it help to alleviate symptoms, but it can even help prevent further inflammation. You can do this yourself at home, for example using the PowerCure Pro laser. Treating cuticles with PowerCure The PowerCure Pro laser is a red light therapy device that you can use to treat inflammation. It can therefore also be used to treat or prevent inflamed cuticles. You can treat yourself in just a few minutes a day. View the PowerCure Pro laser

Shoulder bursitis is very unpleasant and often doesn’t go away quickly. That’s why it’s important to recognise it, so that you can treat it yourself. We’ll explain how to tell if you have bursitis and what you can do about it yourself. What is bursitis? Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, also known as a synovial sac. The bursa is a small sac of fluid situated between the bones, muscles and tendons. It ensures there is minimal friction between these body parts, making it easier for you to move. There are several bursae in the shoulder. When these become irritated, they can become inflamed. This is often caused by overuse, excessive pressure, repetitive movements or poor posture. How do you know if you have shoulder bursitis? You can recognise a shoulder bursitis by several symptoms: Pain that is often sharp or nagging, especially when moving Restricted movement, for example, difficulty lifting your arm or moving it behind your back Swelling or tenderness; the area may feel swollen or be painful to the touch Pain at night whilst lying down Difficulty moving your arm, particularly at the start of the day or after a period of rest Are you experiencing shoulder pain but these symptoms do not apply? Then you may also have other forms of shoulder pain. These could include wear and tear or tendonitis. If the pain does not go away on its own, it is important to see a doctor to identify the cause. Can bursitis resolve on its own? In some cases, this inflammation can heal on its own. This is particularly likely if the inflammation is caused by overuse or minor irritation. However, the recovery process can take weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the inflammation. That’s why it’s important to help your body support the healing process, as bursitis in the shoulder can also worsen without treatment. Further on, we’ll tell you what you can do to treat this inflammation. Source: Pexels   How can you get rid of bursitis? 1. Get plenty of rest Overuse is often the main culprit, so make sure you give your shoulder plenty of rest. Avoid lifting or pushing for a while, and try not to raise your arms too high. 2. Apply ice to the inflamed area If you’re experiencing swelling, apply something cold to your shoulder to reduce it. You can apply an ice pack for 10 minutes, 2–3 times a day. 3. Do the right exercises Once you’ve had enough rest and the pain has subsided, you can start with gentle stretching exercises. There are also exercises you can do to improve mobility. If you’re unsure, it’s best to contact a physiotherapist to draw up a programme. 4. Maintain good posture Pay close attention to your posture, particularly whilst working and exercising. Good sitting posture is important to prevent strain. You should also ensure that you avoid overhead activities for a while. 5. Use red light therapy Red light therapy can be effective for bursitis as it stimulates blood flow. This reduces inflammation and pain and speeds up the recovery process. You can now do this yourself using a personal laser that can also be used for other conditions, such as the PowerCure Pro red light therapy laser. How does red light therapy help with bursitis? In red light therapy, specific wavelengths of red light are directed at the affected area. This is also known as low-level laser therapy. It can help with bursitis in a number of ways: Stimulating the healing process, by stimulating the tissues and cells. This ensures a faster and more effective recovery. Reducing inflammation, as the red light reduces inflammatory processes in the tissues. This also helps to combat swelling and irritation. Pain relief, by improving blood flow and having a positive effect on the mitochondria in the cells. Improving mobility, by improving blood flow. This also helps to prevent stiffness. Red light therapy works best in combination with rest, exercises and other methods for treating bursitis. You can treat yourself with red light therapy, for example using PowerCure. PowerCure red light therapy for bursitis The PowerCure laser is a red light therapy device that you can use yourself to treat your bursitis. In addition, this laser can also be used for many other complaints and conditions. Not only for people, but also for animals! Shop the PowerCure Pro laser

If you have an elderly cat, you’ll no doubt want to ensure it has the best possible quality of life. After all, the reality is that older cats are more prone to health issues. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help your beloved pet. We’ll explain the signs of ageing in cats and what you can do for your pet. How can you tell if a cat is getting on in years? With older cats, you’ll often notice several changes, both physical and behavioural. Below are a number of clear signs that your pet is getting a bit older. Behavioural changes Your cat may be less keen to play and sleep more than before. They may also become more aloof, or conversely, more dependent and meow a lot. An older cat often drinks a lot and may also eat less. Balance problems can also occur as the cat gets older. Physical changes You can also recognise certain signs from your cat’s appearance. For example, your cat may lose tufts of hair or their coat may become slightly thinner. They may lose a little weight or, conversely, put on weight due to reduced activity. Some cats also develop dental problems, eye problems and a loss of muscle mass. Some older cats may also suffer from other health issues. Other health problems Although not every cat is affected by these, the cat may well suffer from certain health problems. For example, kidney or thyroid problems, diabetes and osteoarthritis are common. Many people wonder when to have their elderly cat put to sleep, and this is always the vet’s last resort. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help your elderly cat with any symptoms they may have. Not all of these symptoms necessarily mean that there is something wrong with your cat. They are often normal signs of ageing, and your cat will appreciate the support you can offer. Below, you can read about what you can do to make your cat as comfortable as possible. Source: Pexels How to make your elderly cat as comfortable as possible 1. Provide soft and warm spots around the house Elderly cats sleep a lot and often suffer from joint pain or stiffness. So, place several soft cushions or blankets in a quiet spot so they can rest comfortably. 2. Make the litter tray easily accessible Ensure the litter tray is easily accessible for your elderly cat and place an extra litter tray in the house if necessary. A tray with a low entrance can be helpful for the cat, making it easier for them to jump in. 3. Adjust their food and water stations Some cats suffer from dental problems or have digestive issues. Food that is easy to chew and digest can therefore be beneficial for the cat. It is also important that the cat always has plenty of fresh water. 4. Keep the living environment safe Make sure your cat has enough space to move around safely. Tuck loose cables away and check for any thresholds that you can lower. It’s also good to minimise noise in the house so that your cat can retreat if needed. 5. Don’t force exercise, but do encourage it To keep your cat’s muscles supple, it’s important to play or get them moving from time to time. Use soft toys or perhaps a laser pointer to encourage movement. However, don’t force anything, and leave it alone if you notice that your older cat isn’t interested. 6. Monitor their health Always keep a close eye on your cat and watch out for changes in weight, stiffness, dental problems and other issues. If you’re unsure about a particular symptom, always consult a vet. 7. Use red light therapy Red light therapy helps with age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis, stiffness and pain. It improves blood circulation, helping your cat feel more comfortable and supple. You can now do this at home, allowing you to treat your cat yourself. Is red light therapy suitable for older cats?   Yes, red light therapy can be very beneficial and comfortable for older cats. It’s particularly helpful if you want to alleviate their pain, stiffness and mobility issues. These are the benefits of red light therapy for older cats: Pain relief and more supple joints, by improving blood circulation and stimulating cell activity. This can make joints feel more supple and even helps with conditions such as osteoarthritis. Support for recovery and reduction of inflammation, by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. This can be very helpful for age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. PowerCure red light therapy for your older cat The PowerCure laser is a red light therapy device that you can use on cats. It helps your older cat feel more comfortable, right from the comfort of your own home. What’s more, you can use the PowerCure laser not only on cats, but also on other animals and people! Check out the PowerCure Pro laser

Knee pain is an unpleasant sensation and can sometimes come on out of the blue. It is often caused by overuse, but it can also stem from other symptoms or conditions. Here you can read about possible causes of knee pain, and of course how to treat it. What could be causing knee pain? Knee pain can have many different causes. Sometimes there is a clear trigger, such as a fall or a twist. But it may also be that the sore knee suddenly flares up, without you knowing what’s causing it. These are common reasons why people experience knee pain: Overuse: due to sport, a lot of walking or standing for long periods. Weak muscles or poor posture: this puts extra strain on the knee. Injuries: such as a sprain or a tear. Wear and tear: this is particularly common in older people, for example due to osteoarthritis, which causes the cartilage to thin and the knee joint to become more sensitive. Inflammation: for example, due to tendonitis or bursitis, recognisable by warmth, redness or swelling. Old injury: caused by previous damage to the knee that is causing symptoms again. If knee pain develops gradually, there’s a good chance the knee is overloaded. Fortunately, this can be treated effectively. However, it’s important to be sure that this is actually the case. What do you feel when your knee is overloaded? If your knee is overloaded, you’ll usually notice this as a nagging sensation and stabbing pain around the knee joint. The knee may also feel stiff and heavy, and there may be slight swelling. In some cases, you may experience a cracking or grinding sensation when bending or straightening the knee, and you may have reduced strength and feel unstable. This pain usually develops gradually and goes away with enough rest. However, even if your knee pain has a different cause, it’s important to treat it properly. You can read how to do this below. Source: Pexels How to treat your sore knee In many cases, knee pain can be managed effectively at home. However, if there is a clear cause or if the pain is severe, it is important to see a doctor. You can also try the following methods yourself to help your sore knee recover. 1. Get plenty of rest Especially at the start, it’s important to get plenty of rest, particularly if the pain is caused by overuse. Make sure you don’t jump, run or perform any other strenuous movements until the pain has eased. 2. Cool the knee In the first 24–48 hours after the pain starts, it’s a good idea to cool the knee frequently. Use an ice pack or, if necessary, wrap something from the freezer in a cloth. This helps to reduce or prevent swelling and often relieves the pain. 3. Do gentle exercises Once the rest period is over, it’s a good idea to do certain exercises. Strengthening the muscles around the knee helps to reduce the strain on it. You should also do some stretches to make the area a bit more flexible. 4. Apply heat to the knee After cooling during the first 48 hours, it’s actually beneficial to apply heat. This promotes good blood circulation and relaxes the muscles around the knee. A warm bath or a cosy blanket may be all you need. 5. Other support If your knee remains unstable or weak, it may help to use a knee brace or tape. This helps to stabilise the joint and prevents the knee from being put under further strain. 6. Use red light therapy Red light therapy helps to reduce pain and speed up the healing process. It stimulates blood flow and supports tissue repair. You can use this at home, for example with the PowerCure Pro laser. Does red light therapy help with knee pain? Red light therapy helps with knee pain caused by various factors. These include overuse and stiffness, as well as conditions such as osteoarthritis. Here’s exactly what the red light does: It stimulates blood flow: this means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the damaged tissues. It supports tissue repair: red light stimulates the mitochondria in the cells, enabling muscles, tendons and cartilage to recover more quickly. It reduces inflammation and pain: it inhibits the production of inflammatory substances and pain signals in the nerves. Red light therapy is non-invasive and completely safe. Particularly when combined with rest and certain exercises, it helps to treat or even prevent knee pain. PowerCure red light therapy for painful knees The PowerCure laser is a red light therapy device that you can use for knee pain. The laser’s red light offers the benefits mentioned above, enabling you to treat or prevent your painful knee. What’s more, it helps not only with knee pain, but also with many other complaints and conditions – in both humans and animals! The great thing about this laser is that you can simply use it at home, so the whole household can benefit. Check out the PowerCure Pro laser

Hip pain is a nuisance and can sometimes have no obvious cause. Naturally, you’ll want to get rid of it as quickly as possible. That’s why we’re setting out the possible causes of hip pain, along with ways to treat it. What causes hip pain? 1. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is common in people over the age of 50. It involves the wear and tear of the hip cartilage, making movement painful. You may experience discomfort after something as simple as sleeping on your side. 2. Bursitis Bursitis, also known as inflammation of the bursa, is an inflammation of the bursa. This normally cushions the friction between the muscles and the bone. When it becomes inflamed, you may experience a nagging pain in your hips, often on the side. 3. Tendinitis Tendinitis involves inflammation of the tendons around the hip. This is usually caused by overuse or a particular sport. You’ll usually feel it when you move, and it can sometimes cause pain in your buttocks as well. 4. Muscle injuries A muscle strain or tear can also cause hip pain. For example, do you experience hip pain after running? This may be due to a muscle injury. This is common among people who exercise a lot. It’s also possible that your hip is bruised, for example following a fall. 5. Internal causes If you have pain in your hips and perhaps even in your lower back, this may also be due to an internal cause. For example, you may experience hip pain during the menopause or if you are pregnant. It is also possible that the pain is radiating from your back, groin or even your kidneys. 6. Overuse or poor posture In a large proportion of cases, hip pain is caused by overuse or poor posture. This can be caused, for example, by standing for long periods, exercising or lying down, which can lead to hip pain whilst in bed. Whatever the cause, in many cases there is something you can do to tackle the pain in your hips. We’d be happy to tell you what you can do yourself! Source: Pexels What should you do if you have sore hips? It’s important to know what’s causing your hip pain. Once you know this, you’ll also know what you can do to reduce or even prevent the symptoms. Below, you’ll find some things you can do yourself to ease the pain. 1. Get plenty of rest Avoid activities that cause pain for a while. It’s also important not to sit or lie in the same position for too long. This helps reduce stiffness and prevents further strain. 2. Use ice or heat If you have acute pain or swelling, it’s best to apply a cold compress. Use an ice pack for about 10 minutes at a time, several times a day. If you have stiff muscles or chronic pain, heat can actually help to loosen up the area. 3. Do some stretches and move gently There are exercises for a painful hip that you can do at home. These help to reduce tension and pain. You can also exercise your hips by walking, cycling or swimming. 4. See a doctor or physiotherapist If your hip pain persists or you suspect there is a serious underlying cause, it is important to see a doctor or physiotherapist. This will enable them to draw up a suitable treatment plan or prescribe specific exercises. 5. Use red light therapy Red light therapy helps to reduce pain and treat or prevent inflammation. You can use this at home to treat your hip effectively. Does red light therapy help with painful hips? Red light therapy helps if you suffer from painful hips. The red light stimulates processes within your body, effectively encouraging your body to kick-start the recovery process itself. Here’s what the red light does: Reduces inflammation, as the light penetrates the tissues Stimulates blood flow, allowing nutrients and oxygen to reach the affected area more quickly and promoting the healing process Accelerates tissue repair by increasing energy production in the cells, so that muscles, tissues and tendons recover more quickly Relaxing the muscles, which is particularly useful for hip pain caused by overuse or poor posture It can also help with conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis and bursitis. You can treat yourself at home, for example with the PowerCure laser. PowerCure red light therapy for sore hips The PowerCure Pro laser is a red light therapy device that you can use for sore hips. You can use it yourself at home. It can also be used for other physical complaints and conditions, for both humans and animals. This means you can use the laser for the whole household! Shop the PowerCure laser

If your cat has dry skin, you’ll naturally want to help them. After all, it can cause a lot of itching, pain and other discomfort. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you, as the owner, can do to help your cat. Read on to find out what you can do to treat your cat’s dry skin. Why does my cat have dry skin? The causes of dry skin in your cat can vary widely. These are some common reasons: A diet lacking in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids Not drinking enough water Cold or dry air in the home Allergies, for example to food or dust Parasites or an allergy to fleas Age, which causes the skin to produce less oil Washing with shampoo too often Medical causes or conditions Stress or reduced self-grooming Fortunately, solutions can be found for many of these causes. We’ll tell you more about these a little further on in this article. Is dry skin in a cat a serious condition? In most cases, dry skin isn’t necessarily serious straight away. However, it’s important to identify the cause, as it is a sign that something is wrong. If your pet suddenly develops bald patches, is bleeding, is losing weight or is shedding a lot of fur, it’s important to consult a vet. As long as the symptoms aren’t serious, there are plenty of things you can do yourself to help your pet. Source: Unsplash What to do if your cat has dry skin? 1. Provide the right diet Check whether their current diet contains enough omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These help to support the skin barrier and keep the coat healthy. If this isn’t the case, you can buy specialised food designed for this purpose. 2. Ensure plenty of options for hydration Many cats don’t drink enough, and this affects their skin. Make sure there’s plenty of water available, and consider offering wet food or broth without salt or onion. 3. Maintain a good level of humidity in the home It is important to maintain a good level of humidity in the home. In winter in particular, the dry air caused by the heating can dry out the skin. You might want to consider a humidifier or other ways of improving the humidity. 4. Brush the coat Sometimes you can give your cat a helping hand by brushing its coat. This stimulates blood circulation in the skin, promotes healthy coat growth and helps prevent the skin from drying out. 5. Check for fleas and other parasites Parasites such as fleas can irritate the skin and cause allergies. You should therefore check the coat regularly and use preventative treatments if necessary. 6. Don’t bathe your cat too often Only bathe your cat when it’s really necessary. Shampoos, even special cat shampoos, disrupt the skin’s natural oils. 7. Visit the vet If your cat not only has dry skin but also itching, bald patches, scabs or symptoms that persist for a long time, there may be an underlying condition. The vet can diagnose this and determine the best course of treatment. 8. Use red light therapy Red light therapy improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation and promotes skin health. Will red light therapy help my cat’s dry skin? Red light therapy is an effective method for treating dry skin in cats. Here’s what red light can do. 1. Improving blood flow Red light stimulates microcirculation in the skin. This helps oxygen and nutrients reach the right areas more effectively, which speeds up the skin’s healing process. 2. Supporting the production of new skin cells Red light activates the mitochondria in the cells, which aids skin regeneration. This helps dry and flaky patches heal more quickly. 3. Reducing inflammation and itching Red light has a soothing effect on inflamed skin tissue. It can therefore reduce itching, meaning the cat will scratch less and the skin can heal more effectively. Red light therapy is completely painless and safe. For dry skin in cats, it works best in combination with a good diet, coat care and addressing the underlying cause. The red light supports the natural healing process and therefore works best when combined with the right care. PowerCure red light therapy for cats The PowerCure is a red light therapy device that helps with dry skin in cats. You can use the laser at home on the areas of the skin that need it. What’s more, the laser isn’t just for cats – it also helps other animals and people! This means you can treat your whole household with red light therapy. Shop the PowerCure laser here

If your knee is overloaded, you’ll probably find this causes you discomfort during your daily activities. It’s often an unpleasant sensation that’s constantly present in the background. Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do yourself to treat overloaded knees. In this blog, you’ll find out how to recognise an overloaded knee and what you can do about it. How do you recognise an overloaded knee? If your knee is overloaded, this often develops gradually. You can develop an overloaded knee through activities such as running or cycling, but also, for example, by frequently sitting in a particular position. You can recognise an overloaded knee by the following: Pain during or after exercise, for example whilst walking Stiffness after rest or in the morning Slight swelling or a swollen knee Warmth or tenderness Reduced stability, making it feel as though the knee is giving way If you’re experiencing these symptoms, there’s a good chance you’ll need some time to recover. Further on, you’ll read about the best way to treat this so that you can be symptom-free again as soon as possible. How do you know if your knee ligaments are strained? As well as the joint itself often being overloaded, overloaded knee ligaments are also very common. You’ll usually notice this as sharp or nagging pain on the sides, tenderness to the touch and pain when twisting. The symptoms listed above may also apply. If you have an overloaded knee ligament, it’s also important to take it easy. Source: Pexels How to recover from a strained knee 1. Rest and take the weight off your knee Avoid movements that make the pain worse, as this can exacerbate the symptoms. Allow yourself plenty of time to recover. However, it is a good idea to remain gently active so that the joint does not stiffen. 2. Apply cold therapy If you’ve strained your knee and are also experiencing swelling or irritation, it can help to apply an ice pack. Do this for 10–15 minutes at a time, several times a day, until the symptoms subside. 3. Do gentle stretches If your knees are overloaded, it’s a good idea to keep stretching to relieve tension around the knee. You can also gently stretch the thigh muscles to help the surrounding area. 4. Do muscle-strengthening exercises Do exercises for your overused knee, for example targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings and hip muscles. If the muscles around the knee are stronger, they will also be under less strain. 5. Wear good shoes Good shoes with sufficient cushioning and stability are important for supporting your joints. This helps absorb shocks and prevents further strain. 6. Use red light therapy Red light therapy helps to reduce inflammation, stimulate blood flow and promote tissue repair. This enables you to recover more quickly from a strained knee and helps prevent it happening again in the future. Does red light therapy help with overuse injuries? Yes, red light therapy is effective for knee overuse injuries. The light acts on the tissues, thereby stimulating the recovery process. Here’s exactly how it works: Reduces pain and inflammation by stimulating the cells. Acceleration of tissue repair by stimulating the mitochondria within the cells. This repairs damaged muscles, tendons and tissues. Improved blood flow, allowing nutrients and oxygen to reach the knee more quickly, which aids recovery and mobility. Supporting movement and rehabilitation by reducing pain and stimulating recovery. Red light therapy works best as a complement to other treatments, such as sufficient rest and exercises. PowerCure red light therapy for a strained knee The PowerCure is a red light therapy laser that you can use if your knee is strained. The device is designed for localised use so that you can target the symptoms specifically. It also helps with many other symptoms and conditions, in both humans and animals. View the PowerCure Pro laser