All posts by Bailey Orio, Opinion Editor

Opinion

Raising awareness for those suffering with CRPS

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 20.4% of U.S. adults (50.2 million people) experienced chronic pain in 2019. This means that about 1 in 5 adults in the United States lives with chronic pain, according to the CDC.  

Conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) are a chronic pain condition that can be extremely debilitating for those who live with it, leaving individuals such as myself struggling with severe and persistent pain. This condition often develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. It causes intense pain, skin color changes, temperature changes to the affected area, and many other distressing symptoms. 

 In 2023, I was diagnosed with CRPS following an Achilles tendon tear from a work injury. Since then, surgery and several outpatient treatments to repair the injury, have been frustrating and exhausting, each day requires careful planning to avoid overexertion, because even small missteps can lead to painful flare-ups that take a toll both physically and emotionally. 

 There is no cure for CRPS.   However, there are several treatments focused on pain management.  One such treatment is called   lumbar sympathetic block, a series of injections administered between the L1 and L4 vertebrae in the spine. I underwent this treatment myself, in 2023, the injections provided minimal and temporary relief from the pain, but unfortunately for me the pain returned.  

 CRPS is a very rare condition affecting approximately 26.2 people per 100,000 each year, according to the National Institutes of Health.  

Many individuals with CRPS lose independence because the pain can become so severe they can no longer fully care for themselves, often relying on family members or caregivers for daily support. 

I am hopeful that researchers are making major strides in understanding and treating CRPS, with promising new therapies.  and one day I will find myself pain free.  

I hope by sharing my experience I can promote empathy for those silently battling chronic pain such as CRPS.

News, Uncategorized

Balancing your child’s screemtime

 

In an era dominated by screens and digital devices, a growing concern is emerging about the impact of technology on children. The increasing prevalence of smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets has led to a generation of youngsters who are not just users but often obsessed with the digital world.

As this trend accelerates, parents, educators, and psychologists are grappling with the effects of this technological immersion on the well-being and development of children. Childrens obsession with technology manifests in various ways, from spending long hours playing video games to constant scrolling through social media platforms.

The addictive nature of these digital experiences can lead to detrimental effects on physical health, mental well-being, and overall cognitive development. One major consequence is the sedentary lifestyle that often accompanies excessive screen time.

Physical activity is essential for a child’s healthy development, promoting not only physical fitness but also cognitive and emotional well-being. When kids are glued to screens for extended periods, it can contribute to a lack of exercise, obesity, and related health issues. Furthermore, the constant exposure to digital content can impact a childs mental health.

The pressure to conform to online standards, coupled with the addictive nature of social media, may contribute to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety. The virtual world can sometimes blur the lines between reality and curated online personas, making it challenging for children to develop a healthy sense of identity.

Educationally, the overreliance on technology may hinder traditional learning experiences. Excessive screen time can detract from face-to-face interactions, essential for developing social skills and emotional intelligence. Moreover, it may contribute to shortened attention spans, making it difficult for children to engage in sustained, focused learning.

As parents and educators grapple with these challenges, the call for a balanced approach to technology use is becoming more urgent. Establishing clear guidelines for screen time, encouraging outdoor activities, and fostering open communication about the risks associated with excessive technology use are crucial steps in addressing this issue. Additionally, integrating digital literacy education into the curriculum can empower children to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. Teaching them about the potential pitfalls of online behavior and fostering critical thinking skills will contribute to a generation that is not just tech-savvy but also digitally responsible.

In conclusion, while technology undoubtedly offers numerous benefits, it is essential to recognize and address the potential negative impacts of childrens obsession with digital devices. Striking a balance between the digital and physical worlds is key to ensuring the healthy development of the next generation in an increasingly interconnected and technologically driven society.