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Author: Andrew Kistner

Our Indoor ARTS Playscape: Combining Fun & Learning 

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All News, All Posts, Autism/ABA Therapy, Blog Posts, Events, Informational, News.

The Oxford Center has a very exciting new addition- an approximately 960 square feet indoor playscape for our Brighton location! This playscape has been a long process of picking out the perfect model and features, patiently tracking its shipment process, and then watching excitedly as it was being built! We know this playscape is going to be so much fun for our kiddos! Our playscape features a climbing rock wall, multiple slides, a ball pit, a swing, an obstacle course, and more! With so many great, fun features, we know this playscape is going to be a great addition. But is there any point to it beyond just being fun? Absolutely! The playscape is going to be a huge asset to our ARTS programs. 

What is our ARTS Program?   

Our ARTS program stands for Autism Recovery Thru Synergy. At The Oxford Center, our synergistic approach to autism is unlike any other ABA center. We use every tool in our belt to help our kids grow and develop as much as possible. We know that many kids coming to us for ABA services will also benefit from services like Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. So, we have incorporated all of these therapies into one program so that we can provide each of our kids with the best possible individualized experience.  

How will the playscape be used in ARTS?  

When picking out our playscape and all its features, we made sure to put careful thought into how the playscape would be able to benefit each therapy in our ARTS program. We want our kids to have fun and enjoy their time here- but it is also important to us that they are learning, and that we are doing everything we can to help them as well. Here are the benefits and learning opportunities our playscape will have for our ARTS program:  

-Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy:

ABA offers a huge wealth of opportunities for growth through our playscape. Our kids will be able to practice waiting, requesting preferring locations, shoes and socks on and off, turn taking, peer play, requesting actions, requesting actions from peers, transitions from preferred locations, requesting help, identifying emotions, and more!

Learn More About ABA

-Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy:

Our playscape will help to develop key skills in both physical therapy and occupational therapy. These include practicing skills like vestibular input which will allow kids to practice for changes in their position, movement, or direction of the head. They will also be able to practice motor planning while playing which allows them to remember and perform body movements to fulfill a task, dynamic balance which will allow our kids to practice remaining standing and stable while engaging in play, practicing coordination, kinesthetic awareness which allows practice sensing the position and movement of their own body, strengthening muscles, and lots of practice with sensory processing and visual-spatial awareness skills through each of our playscape features.  

Learn More About Physical Therapy
Learn More About Occupational Therapy

-Speech Therapy:

In speech therapy, our playscape will offer fantastic opportunities for peer-to-peer interactions involving turn-taking and sharing. They will be able to increase functional play skills by sharing and taking turns in things like waiting their turn to go down the slide, use the ball pit, sharing balls, etc. They will also be able to increase their expressive language skills through utterance length and labeling skills to express their wants and needs, whether that be verbally or through an AAC device.  

Learn More About Speech Therapy

Conclusion

In conclusion, the addition of our indoor playscape at The Oxford Center’s Brighton location signifies more than just a physical expansion; it symbolizes a commitment to innovative and holistic autism therapy. Through this vibrant playscape, we are exemplifying how learning and development can be intertwined with play and fun. By providing a nurturing environment that sparks curiosity and excitement, we are able to foster an atmosphere where children can flourish and reach their fullest potential. As we look ahead, the playscape represents a bright future for autism therapy, where innovation, compassion, and the power of play combine to create a world of possibilities for the children in our care. 

Check out our timelapse video of the playscape being built!

Spasticity and Bone Deformation: Should you be looking out for it?  

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, Blog Posts, Informational, Specific Conditions, Specific Therapies.

Many people are unfamiliar with the term’s spasticity and bone deformation. These are conditions that physical therapists are highly familiar with and are constantly on the lookout for in the patients they see every day. For the individual or parents, symptoms may not seem serious when they begin to appear, but these symptoms are very painful, disabling, disfiguring, and can be permanent unless it is addressed and corrected. Physical therapists know how important it is to recognize the signs of spasticity and bone deformation so steps can be taken to lessen the risk for bone deformation and/or spasticity but oftentimes, by the time a physical therapist sees a patient it may be too late to address the problem. That’s why it is important that others are aware of the signs and symptoms for spasticity and bone deformation so that they can take simple steps to correct the issue. 

What is Spasticity?

Spasticity is a condition that includes abnormal muscle tone and/or stiffness in a child or adult. This can often take the form of a muscle(s) feeling very tight and/or appearing rigid so that the limb does not look or move as it typically would. This muscle tightness can lead to muscle spasms or difficulty controlling movements and can interfere with movement, speech, and can be attributed to discomfort or pain. Parents or individuals who are concerned they or their child may be experiencing spasticity can take these actions to check:  

  • Look for jerky or involuntary movements. 
  • Check if their muscles feel harder than usual and if there is resistance when you move their limbs.  
  • Watch for abnormal postures or positioning of limbs and/or joints. 
  • Look for clonus (an abnormal muscle reflex response that involves involuntary and rhythmic muscle contractions) by stretching their limb and watching for rhythmic movements. 
  • Check for exaggerated reflexes. Their muscles may twitch or contract in response to certain stimuli and/or minor stimuli.   

Keep in mind that spasticity has a range of severity and someone with spasticity may not have all of these symptoms.  

What Causes Spasticity?

Many people have not and will not have to worry about spasticity. But those with certain conditions may be more at risk of suffering side effects that cause spasticity. In these individuals “normal”, voluntary movements require communication between the brain and corresponding muscles. In individuals with spasticity, that communication line is compromised and not functioning correctly. This malfunction in communication results in abnormal muscle tone, spasms, deformation, and/or rigidity. These can occur at varying levels of severity due to various conditions or injuries such as:  

  • Traumatic Brain Injury 
  • Stroke 
  • Multiple Sclerosis 
  • Cerebral Palsy 
  • Spinal Cord Injury 
  • Neurodegenerative Disorders 
  • Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 
  • Metabolic Diseases 

Individuals with these conditions are much more likely to encounter symptoms of spasticity.  

What are the Dangers of Spasticity

Spasticity symptoms can be very painful, disabling, and disfiguring. These complications can make it very difficult to impossible for an individual to execute basic everyday tasks independently and as such, is often debilitating. If left unaddressed, spasticity can lead to permanent complications that include pain, frozen joints, and bone deformation. Several patients who never address symptoms may require multiple surgeries in order to reverse the damage done to their muscles, bones, and joints. For others, the damage done may be permanent. This is why it is important for individuals to recognize symptoms before it is too late to manage.  

How To Address and Lessen the Risk for Bone Deformation and Spasticity  

While complications of spasticity are very serious, if caught early enough simple exercises and stretches can help reduce spasticity and manage the long-term impact of. If you notice spasticity in yourself or a loved one, try these stretches and exercises:  

  •  Stretching your calf on an incline board 
  • Aquatic exercises 
  • Cycling or treadmill 
  • Wall push-ups 

If you are noticing signs of spasticity, it is important to contact your doctor or physical therapist in addition to the steps you can take at home. Professionals will be able to assess the symptoms, severity, and the best steps to take to address the concerns.  

Conclusion 

Spasticity and bone deformation can have significant implications for individuals’ quality of life if left unaddressed. By familiarizing yourself with the signs and symptoms associated with spasticity, individuals and their loved ones can take proactive steps to seek early intervention. Through a combination of exercises, professional guidance, and timely medical care, the impact of spasticity and bone deformation can be effectively managed, improving overall well-being and preventing long-term complications. 

Physical Therapy at The Oxford Center

The Oxford Center is now offering a unique, insurance-covered approach to physical therapy for children and adults. These sessions focus on retraining the body and brain from a neurological standpoint compared to the traditional muscular approach, making your recovery long-lasting and improving your quality of life from start to finish.

Patients are trained to use muscles correctly, rather than compensating for muscle groups that are not functioning properly. Our physical therapy program seeks to address the root problem and help patients recover and improve function in their body.

Each patient is paired, one-to-one, with a Doctor of Physical Therapy or a Physical Therapy Assistant. Sessions work to eliminate pain, retrain the body, and recover from illnesses, injuries, or trauma.

Learn More

July 2023 Newsletter

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All News, All Posts, News, Newsletters.

Our Indoor Playscape is Finished!

We are beyond excited to announce that our playscape is finally finished! This has been a long process in the works of picking out the perfect playscape for our kids to enjoy, tracking the very long shipping process, and then anxiously awaiting the finished product while it was being built! Our playscape includes a climbing rock wall, ball pit, multiple slides, swing, obstacle course, and more! 

The best part? Our playscape is not just something really fun for our kids- it is also going to be helpful for our ARTS program! The playscape will offer loads of learning opportunities for kids participating in our ABA program, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy! Our kids will be able to work on peer-to-peer interactions through turn-taking and sharing. The playscape will be a great way for kiddos to increase their functional play skills by sharing and taking turns within the playscape. The playscape will also allow kids to work on challenging their motor planning, dynamic balance, coordination, kinesthetic awareness, and more!

We had a lot of fun putting together a timelapse video of the playscape being built, so make sure to check it out!

Watch the Timelapse

Should You Worry About Ticks?

Every summer, we all look forward to the time we’re going to spend outside with family and friends. Everything that puts a smile on our faces when we think of summer happens outside- beaches, hikes, playing with pets. With all the summer fun, though, we always seem to forget about all the pests that come out in the summertime and all the insect bites we end up with… like tick bites.   

Ticks are small parasites often found in wooded areas, grasslands, and areas with dense vegetation. Ticks bite humans and animals and can spread diseases, such as Lyme disease, through their bite. It is important to understand how to prevent tick bites and how to recognize signs of Lyme disease in the event of a bite so that you can seek treatment quickly.    

Lyme disease is an illness caused by borrelia bacteria. This bacterium transmits through the bite of a tick carrying the bacteria. This bacterium is common in parts of the United States, Europe, and Canada. Anyone who experiences a tick bite is at risk of developing symptoms of Lyme disease, which can prove serious, permanent, and even fatal if left untreated.   

Read More About Ticks & Lyme Disease

It’s Peach Season!

One of the best things about summertime is it is finally peach season! A fresh Georgia peach during the peak of peach season is so delicious… if you haven’t tried one, it truly is a must! One of our staff members was fortunate enough to order some fresh Georgia peaches, but maybe ordered a little bit too much! To use up some of the extras, they turned the peaches into some delicious Gluten-Free Peach Crumb Bars! This staff member drew inspiration from a couple of different recipes from My Baking Addiction and Sally’s Baking Addiction to bake something truly delectable. Everyone here who was fortunate enough to try the bars raved about how delicious they were, so we knew we had to get the recipe to share! You will be glad you tried these, so start ordering some peaches!

GF-Peach-BarsDownload

Special Needs Estate Planning

For parents of special needs children, the concern that your child is taken care of is always present. Especially the worry that if something happened to you and your partner…what would happen to your child? These are the hard questions being tackled in our latest TOC Talks episode. In recent episodes of TOC Talks, we were fortunate enough to feature a two-part episode with special guest Ashley Waddell Tingstad. Ashley is an estate planning attorney who is able to help anyone plan out their estate, however, she holds a particular interest in estate planning for families with special needs children.

In the first episode, Ashely talks with Andrew Kistner about her own background and why she feels such a strong connection to estate planning, especially for special needs children. Ashley has a wonderful story and a wealth of knowledge! Listen to part one here. In part two, Ashley talks with Andrew Kistner about why special needs trusts are important, what happens to your special needs child if you are gone, and the first steps to take to make sure your child is taken care of. Listen to this episode here.

Ashley Waddell Tingstad is the Founder and Principal of Treetown Law and manages her own personal blog mom here now where she shares her experiences as a mom and writes on important topics like parenting, grief, medical trauma, spirituality, and more. Ashley truly is a wonderful person, make sure to read more about her!

Listen to Episode Two Here

TOC Talks Episode 19, Part Two: “Special Needs Trusts: What You Need to Know”

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

In part two of this TOC Talks episode, Ashley Waddell Tingstad continues her discussion about special needs trusts with Andrew Kistner. In this episode Ashley talks with Andrew about why special needs trusts are important, what happens to your special needs child if you are gone, and the first steps to take to make sure your child is taken care of. These are some important topics that are constantly at the back of the mind for parents of special needs children. Make sure to tune in to learn what you can do to help make sure your special needs child is taken care of! In part one, Ashley and Andrew talk about her background and why she has personal connection to special needs estate planning. If you missed it, check it out here! 

Ashley Waddell Tingstad is the Founder and Principal of Treetown Law and manages her own personal blog mom here now where she shares her experiences as a mom and writes on important topics like parenting, grief, medical trauma, spirituality, and more. Ashley truly is a wonderful person, make sure to read more about her!

Check it Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

TOC Talks | RSS.com

TOC Talks – Special Needs Trusts: What You Need to Know TOC Talks Ep. 19 Part 2 | RSS.com

Pilates: A Path to Relief and Wellness for Chronic Back Pain

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, Informational, Specific Therapies.

Living with chronic back pain can be an incredibly debilitating experience. Many individuals suffering from this condition find themselves seeking solutions that may only provide temporary relief, or no relief at all. For these individuals, finding a lasting solution to their chronic pain is extremely important as that pain can be debilitating and affect their everyday life. Luckily, Pilates is a great option!  

Understanding Chronic Back Pain 

 Chronic back pain affects millions of people worldwide and can stem from various causes such as muscle imbalances, poor posture, herniated discs, or injuries. Traditional treatments often involve medication, physical therapy, or surgery, but these may not always provide satisfactory or lasting results. In such cases, exploring alternative therapeutic options like Pilates can offer a fresh perspective. 

What is Pilates?  

Pilates is a low-impact exercise method developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. It focuses on strengthening the core muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall body alignment. Pilates exercises are performed on a mat or specialized equipment such as the reformer, cadillac, or chair. The practice involves precise movements combined with controlled breathing and concentration. 

How Pilates Helps Back Pain: 

  • Core Strengthening: One of the key principles of Pilates is activating and strengthening the deep abdominal and back muscles, commonly referred to as the “core.” Strengthening these muscles can provide better support for the spine and help alleviate stress on the back. 
  • Improved Posture and Alignment: Pilates emphasizes proper alignment of the spine, pelvis, and shoulders. By developing awareness of correct posture and practicing exercises that promote alignment, individuals can alleviate strain on the back and improve overall body mechanics. 
  • Flexibility and Mobility: Pilates exercises focus on elongating and stretching muscles, increasing flexibility, and enhancing joint mobility. Improved flexibility can reduce muscle tension and tightness in the back, leading to decreased pain and increased range of motion. 
  • Body Awareness: Pilates encourages a heightened sense of body awareness and mindful movement. Through concentration and controlled movements, individuals learn to identify and correct movement patterns that contribute to back pain. This increased awareness helps prevent further injury and promotes healthier movement habits in daily life. 

Benefits of Pilates for Back Pain: 

  • Pain Relief: Pilates can help alleviate chronic back pain by strengthening and stabilizing the core muscles, reducing strain on the spine, and promoting better body mechanics. As the body becomes stronger and more aligned, individuals often experience a reduction in pain symptoms. 
  • Improved Flexibility: Increased flexibility achieved through Pilates exercises can ease muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness in the back. Enhanced flexibility also contributes to better posture and prevents future back problems. 
  • Enhanced Strength and Stability: Pilates targets the deep core muscles, which provide stability and support for the spine. Strengthening these muscles helps protect the back from injury and provides a solid foundation for functional movements. 
  • Postural Correction: Poor posture can contribute to back pain. Pilates exercises emphasize proper alignment and teach individuals how to maintain good posture throughout daily activities. By improving postural habits, individuals can alleviate strain on the back and reduce pain. 
  • Stress Reduction: Chronic back pain can cause emotional stress and tension. Pilates incorporates relaxation techniques, controlled breathing, and a focus on mindfulness, which can help reduce stress levels. By calming the mind and promoting relaxation, Pilates contributes to overall well-being. 

 Pilates offers a holistic approach to managing chronic back pain, combining strengthening exercises, flexibility training, postural correction, and mindfulness techniques. By engaging in regular Pilates practice, individuals can experience relief from back pain, improved physical functionality, and a renewed sense of well-being. If you’re struggling with chronic back pain, consider exploring the benefits of Pilates as a valuable addition to your pain management and overall wellness routine. 

Pilates at The Oxford Center 

At The Oxford Center, we want to support you in every way we can as you embark on your health and wellness journey. For that reason, we are now offering Pilates at unbeatable prices, with an exceptional instructor, and state-of-the-art equipment. Discover the benefits of Pilates for yourself – increased muscular strength, improved posture, enhanced body awareness, and a renewed sense of vitality. Take the first step towards a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle today. 

Learn More

TOC Talks Episode 18, Part One: “Planning for the Worst”

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in TOC Talks Podcast.

In this special two-part episode of TOC Talks, Andrew Kistner is joined by Ashley Waddell Tingstad, the Founder & Principal of Treetown Law. Ashley is an estate planning attorney who is able to help anyone plan out their estate, however she has a particular interest in estate planning for families with special needs children. In part one of this episode, she shares her deeply personal connection to estate planning and why she chose to enter that field. Ashely shares her journey with her father’s hospice and passing, her uncle’s passing, and the birth of her son Viggo, who ultimately passed away from a very rare genetic condition. Ashley saw firsthand all of the difficulties that come with these experiences, the financial burden, and the planning that needs to happen. Tune in to hear her story and stay tuned for episode two, where they go in depth about estate planning!

Read more from Ashley here: mom here now 

Check it Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

TOC Talks | RSS.com

TOC Talks – Planning for the worst: TOC Talks Ep. 18 Part 1 | RSS.com

Embracing Holistic Fitness: A Pilates Workout Works for Everyone

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, Informational, Specific Therapies.

The perception of workouts has experienced a significant shift in the last decade or two. The days when exercise solely revolve around achieving a certain physical appearance through high-intensity activities are gone. Today, the fitness landscape has evolved to prioritize overall health and well-being, offering a diverse array of workout methods tailored to individual needs. Among these, Pilates has emerged as a rapidly growing phenomenon, captivating fitness enthusiasts with its comprehensive approach to exercise. With a focus on enhancing both physical and mental wellness, Pilates has gained immense popularity as an excellent all-around workout choice. 

What is Pilates?  

Pilates is a holistic exercise approach that focuses on improving strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness. Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, this fitness method emphasizes controlled movements, precise alignment, and proper breathing techniques. Pilates exercises target the core muscles, including the abdomen, lower back, hips, and glutes, while also engaging the entire body for a balanced workout. 

History of Pilates 

The roots of Pilates can be traced back to Joseph Pilates, a German-born fitness enthusiast who developed the method during World War I. Pilates, originally known as “Contrology,” was initially used as a rehabilitation technique for wounded soldiers. Joseph Pilates believed that physical and mental health were interconnected, and he designed a series of exercises that focused on building core strength and flexibility. 

Over time, Pilates gained popularity and began attracting attention from dancers and athletes due to its transformative benefits. Joseph Pilates and his wife Clara opened a studio in New York City, where they trained students and instructors in the Pilates method. Since then, Pilates has evolved and diversified, with various schools of thought and styles of practice emerging worldwide. 

Benefits of a Pilates Workout

Pilates offers a multitude of benefits as a workout for both the body and mind. Through regular practice, individuals can improve core strength as the workout targets and strengthen deep abdominal and back muscles. Pilates also increases flexibility, with Pilates exercises promoting a full range of motion and increased muscle elasticity. Alongside improved strength and flexibility, Pilates helps enhance posture by emphasizing proper alignment and body awareness, reducing strain on the neck, shoulders, and lower back. The exercises work to tone muscles throughout the body, resulting in a more sculpted appearance and increased body awareness.

Moreover, Pilates contributes to stability and balance, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing coordination. It serves as a valuable tool for injury prevention and rehabilitation, aiding in the recovery process by strengthening weakened muscles and improving flexibility. Pilates incorporates breathing techniques and encourages mindfulness, reducing stress and fostering a deeper mind-body connection. The practice can also boost energy levels, leaving individuals feeling invigorated and revitalized. Overall, Pilates provides a holistic approach to fitness and well-being, promoting physical strength, mental clarity, and an overall sense of vitality. 

What is the Difference Between Yoga and Pilates?  

While Pilates and yoga share some similarities, they are distinct practices with different origins and objectives. Here are the key differences between the two: 

  • Focus: Pilates emphasizes physical conditioning, strength, and core stability, with an emphasis on controlled movement and alignment. Yoga, on the other hand, combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote overall well-being and spiritual growth. 
  • Breathing Techniques: Pilates utilizes specific breathing patterns, such as lateral thoracic breathing and deep diaphragmatic breathing, to facilitate movement and engage the core muscles. In yoga, breath is a tool to connect the body and mind, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. 
  • Spirituality: While yoga often incorporates spiritual elements and philosophical teachings, Pilates is primarily a physical exercise system with a focus on anatomical alignment and functional movement. Pilates is a more secular and fitness-oriented practice. 
  • Equipment: Pilates exercises often use specialized equipment such as the Reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda Chair, which use springs and resistance mechanisms to challenge the body. Yoga typically requires minimal equipment, with practitioners relying on yoga mats and props for support. 

Pilates at The Oxford Center 

At The Oxford Center, we want to support you in every way we can as you embark on your health and wellness journey. For that reason, we are now offering Pilates at unbeatable prices, with an exceptional instructor, and state-of-the-art equipment. Discover the benefits of Pilates for yourself – increased muscular strength, improved posture, enhanced body awareness, and a renewed sense of vitality. Take the first step towards a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle today. 

Learn More
tick bite

Are Tick Bites a Cause for Concern? Understanding Lyme Disease  

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, Informational, Specific Conditions.

Every summer, we all look forward to the time we’re going to spend outside with family and friends. Everything that puts a smile on our faces when we think of summer happens outside- beaches, hikes, playing with pets. With all the summer fun, though, we always seem to forget about all the pests that come out in summertime and all the insect bites we end up with… like tick bites.   

Ticks are small parasites often found in wooded areas, grasslands, and areas with dense vegetation. Ticks bite humans and animals and can spread diseases, such as Lyme disease, through their bite. It is important to understand how to prevent tick bites and how to recognize signs of Lyme disease in the event of a bite so that you can seek treatment quickly.    

What is Lyme Disease?

Tick Bite

Lyme disease is an illness caused by borrelia bacteria. This bacterium transmits through the bite of a tick carrying the bacteria. This bacterium is common in parts of the United States, Europe, and Canada. Anyone who experiences a tick bite is at risk of developing symptoms of Lyme disease, which can prove serious, permanent, and even fatal if left untreated.   

Symptoms

Symptoms of Lyme disease can vary and may develop in stages. Not everyone infected with Lyme disease will experience the same symptoms and some individuals may not display any symptoms at all. Common signs and symptoms associated with Lyme disease include:  

Early Localized Stage:  

  • Erythema migrans (EM) rash: A circular or bull’s-eye-shaped rash that expands from the site of the tick bite. It may appear within 3 to 30 days after the bite and is typically not itchy or painful.  
  • Flu-like symptoms: Fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise.  

Early Disseminated Stage:  

  • Multiple EM rashes: Additional rashes may develop in different areas of the body.  
  • Flu-like symptoms: Persistent fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes.  
  • Neurological symptoms: Numbness or tingling in the extremities, facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), meningitis (headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light), and dizziness.  

Late Disseminated Stage:  

  • Arthritis: Recurrent episodes of joint swelling, particularly in large joints like the knees.  
  • Neurological symptoms: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, nerve pain, and neuropathy.  
  • Heart problems: Irregular heart rhythm, palpitations, and chest pain.  

It’s important to note that these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, making a diagnosis challenging. If you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite, seek medical attention for proper evaluation and diagnosis.  

Without Treatment

If Lyme disease is left untreated, it can lead to more severe and potentially long-term complications. These complications can worsen as time goes on and can even become permanent if not addressed or addressed adequately. Severe complications may include chronic joint inflammation and arthritis, mobility issues, neurological complications, meningitis, heart abnormalities, serious cardiac issues, eye inflammation, hearing problems, memory impairment, mood changes such as depression and anxiety, and in rare cases- encephalitis and peripheral neuropathy.   

How to Prevent Tick Bites & Lyme Disease  

Lyme Disease can quickly become serious for those infected. It is important to be aware of simple ways to prevent tick bites and Lyme disease, such as:

  • Avoid tick-infested areas: When possible, try to stay away from areas with high grass, dense vegetation, and leaf litter where ticks are commonly found. If you need to be in such areas, walk in the center of trails and avoid brushing against vegetation.  
  • Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors in tick-prone areas, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into socks or boots, and a hat. Light-colored clothing can help you spot ticks more easily.  
  • Perform tick checks: After spending time in areas where ticks may be present, thoroughly check your body for ticks. Pay close attention to areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, armpits, groin, and behind the knees. Promptly remove any ticks you find.  
  • Shower after outdoor activities: Taking a shower within two hours of being outdoors can help wash away ticks that may be crawling on your body. Use a washcloth or loofah to help remove ticks that haven’t attached yet.  
  • Maintain a tick-free yard: Create a tick-safe environment by keeping your lawn well-maintained, removing leaf litter, and clearing tall grass and brush.  

Our Approach

The Oxford Center has developed a Lyme Disease Treatment Program to help you on your way to recovery. Our program includes the following services:   

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)  

Traditional treatment for Lyme disease involves antibiotics in the form of either oral, injections, or IV. Co-infections frequently require a different treatment plan than antibiotic therapy as they are not always effective for Lyme disease. The bacteria associated with Lyme disease is very sensitive to oxygen and is debilitated in a highly oxygenated environment. Research shows that HBOT makes a significant improvement when used to treat Lyme disease, even with patients who have not been successful with antibiotic therapy. HBOT decreases inflammation, oxygenates the entire body, stimulates the growth of new healthy blood vessels, and releases stem cells up to 800% more after twenty sessions. Research shows that the efficiency of antibiotics in the case of Lyme Disease has increased as new blood vessel growth allows the medication to penetrate deeper into tissues.  

Learn More

Neurofeedback Therapy  

A Quantitative EEG shows us the electrical activity of the brain. We will be able to see if inflammation is present, if there are any areas of hyper- or hypoactivity, and any areas of disconnect. Patients with Lyme disease may experience Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) and may experience pain, neurocognitive or fatigue symptoms, headaches, brain fog, and sleep disorders. PTLDS seems to occur more frequently after Lyme disease has caused neurological complications. Research suggests that the brain becomes more sensitive to pain signals and does not reset after the infection, causing the increased sensitivity to continue. Using the information from the QEEG, we can focus on the area(s) of the brain most affected and bring those areas back into balance through Neurofeedback Therapy.  

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Nutrition Services  

Finally, nutrition helps to address co-infections associated with Lyme disease. Our services will look to heal the gut, look at what is wrong, and support your body in anything else going on. Gut healing is a great tool in your health journey, and it can be essential to addressing every issue going on in your body. Nutrition coaching provides the information and support you need to learn to enjoy health-building foods, create a healthy living environment, and feel good in your body.    

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TOC Talks Episode 17: “U.S.A vs. The U.K.?”

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

In honor of the 4th of July coming up Andrew talks with Lee Mitchell, an England born and raised native. In this episode of TOC Talks, Andrew and Lee talk about some of the differences between living in the United States versus England, first impressions of the States, and ultimately which is better- The U.S.A. or the U.K.?! This is a really fun episode, so don’t miss out!

Check It Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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What’s Going on in Camp ABA?  

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All News, All Posts, Autism/ABA Therapy, Blog Posts, Events, News.

Our Camp ABA program is in full swing for the 2023 summer season! Our Camp ABA program is a summer program designed for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This program offers a fun and educational way to spend the summer practicing social, emotional, and learning skills. Camp ABA is a summer Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) program that aims to give kids all the experiences of a camp-like atmosphere while still going through a top-notch ABA program! We have had some really fun and educational themed weeks so far and we are so excited for the weeks we have in store still! 

Week One: “Saved by the Bell” 

We kicked off our first week of Camp ABA with a “Saved by the Bell” theme! This week kids truly celebrated the start of summer by making graduation caps and friendship bracelets, playing with water balloons, playing basketball, having story time and freeze-dance parties, and more! The kids had a great time starting camp and officially kicking off the summer! 

Week Two: “Gardening Week” 

Going into our second week of camp, the kids had a great time continuing their fun and learning. We enjoyed a gardening theme this week, and I think it’s safe to say the kids had a great time! For gardening week, the kids had fun with a flower scavenger hunt, veggie tasting, painting garden stones, learning to weed a garden, making fairy jars, and more! Move over Mom, we saw a few green thumbs starting to come out! 

Week Three: “Down on the Farm” 

Week three of Camp ABA was dedicated to a “Down on the Farm” theme! The kids had a great time experiencing some country-living activities and we loved seeing how much they enjoyed it! Our kids got to imitate shearing sheep and milking a cow, playing kickball, making Juneteenth flags, line dancing to Old MacDonald Had a Farm, and more! These kids are ready to move into some nice country-living! 

Week Four: “Under the Sea”  

Finally, week four of Camp ABA is going to the ocean with a “Under the Sea” theme! Our little sea creatures are going to have a great time diving into all of the activities we have planned. The kids are going to get to go on a sea creature scavenger hunt, learn about ocean layers and currents, coral reef sponge paintings, painting sea turtles and a deep-sea diver, having a Just Dance “Under the Sea” Disney Party, and more! We are so excited to see how much fun the kids have learning about the ocean and everything in it! 

We Can’t Wait for More!

With about half of Camp ABA in the books, it’s safe to say we are off to a fantastic start! The kids are having so much fun learning and socializing with their fellow Camp ABA-ers! But, even with everything we have already done we are still just getting started! We have loads of fun themes left for the kids to experience and we can’t wait to share all of the fun with you! 

Learn More About Camp ABA