Tag: hbot

PTSD: Understanding Innovative Therapy Options

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, HBOT/Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Informational, Specific Conditions.

PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a term and condition many are familiar with, even if they do not suffer from the condition themselves or know someone personally who suffers from the condition. For those who have seen the effects of PTSD, they know how serious and debilitating the condition can really be. Some who develop this condition may lose their job, push away friends and family, lose the ability to care for themselves, fall into depression and other mental health concerns, etc. That’s why it is so important to spread awareness of the condition and promote any and all options to help treat this condition and promote recovery and healing.  

What is PTSD?  

PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, which is a psychological condition that can develop in individuals who experience or witness a traumatic event(s). In order to receive a diagnosis, a person must have symptoms that last for more than a month and the symptoms must cause significant problems in their functioning lives. In 2020, about 13 million people in the United States were diagnosed with PTSD. Statistically, women are twice as likely to have PTSD than men and we estimate that one in eleven people will receive this diagnosis in their lifetime. With such a significant portion of the population living with this condition, it is important to understand this condition and what options are out there to help heal and recover. 

What Causes PTSD?  

PTSD is a psychological condition that can develop after someone experiences a traumatic event or series of events. This condition is different for everyone, so the set circumstances in which someone develops this condition may vary between each person. Neurobiological factors, such as genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, and alterations in brain structure and function, can also play a role in the development of PTSD. 

What are the Symptoms of PTSD?  

Generally, there are four main types of symptoms for PTSD:  

  • Re-experiencing: Someone with PTSD may re-experience their trauma through recollection, flashbacks, and/or nightmares.  
  • Avoidance: Someone with PTSD may avoid anything that reminds them of their trauma and may become emotionally “numb”.  
  • Alternations in Cognition & Mood: Regular and repeated negative thoughts /perceptions about self, others, and/or the world. They may lose interest in things they used to enjoy or have persistent feelings of shame/guilt.   
  • Hyperarousal & Reactivity: This may include an increased feeling of irritability, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, being overly sensitive to threats, and being easily startled.  

In order to be diagnosed, a person must have at least one re-experiencing symptom, three avoidance symptoms, two negative alterations, and two hyperarousal symptoms for at least one month.  

The Oxford Center’s Approach to PTSD

Neurofeedback 

With this purpose in mind, The Oxford Center is at the forefront of utilizing innovative therapeutic modalities, including neurofeedback, to treat PTSD. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive technique that aims to improve brain function by providing real-time feedback on brainwave activity. By monitoring brainwave patterns, individuals can learn to self-regulate their brain activity, leading to improved emotional and cognitive functioning. 

Neurofeedback has shown promising results in treating PTSD, with research indicating its effectiveness in reducing symptoms and improving overall well-being. Studies have demonstrated that neurofeedback can lead to decreased hyperarousal, increased emotional regulation, and enhanced cognitive flexibility in individuals with this condition. 

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment method that involves breathing pure oxygen. While traditionally used for conditions such as decompression sickness and non-healing wounds, emerging research suggests that HBOT may also offer benefits for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By exposing individuals to increased levels of oxygen, HBOT aims to enhance oxygen delivery to tissues, promote healing, and reduce inflammation. Studies have indicated that HBOT can have positive effects on brain function, including neuroplasticity and neurogenesis. These neuroprotective and regenerative properties hold promise for individuals with PTSD, as they may help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments, and sleep disturbances.  

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TOC Talks Episode 14: “PTSD- Causes and Solutions”

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

In this Episode of TOC Talks, Andrew sits down with Elizabeth Terry, our Director of Medical Services, to discuss Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the causes and solutions, and what options are out there to help promote recovery! Listen in to find out how alternative treatments like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Neurofeedback Therapy can help relieve PTSD symptoms! Don’t miss out on this interesting and informative episode!

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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TOC Talks Episode 6: “Jeff Mosteller: The Man, The Myth, The Legend!

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

In this week of TOC Talks, Andrew sits down with Jeff Mosteller, the Director of Training and Certification and Safety Director at The Oxford Center, to talk about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy! Together, they dive into what Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is, how it works, and all of the AMAZING possibilities that Hyperbarics offers. This is truly one special episode… listen in as an expert in the field shares some great insight into Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy!

Check It Out!

Interested in Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy? Learn more about it here.

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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cerebral palsy and hyperbaric

Cerebral Palsy & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: An Alternative Method for Hope

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Posts, Blog Posts, HBOT/Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Specific Conditions.

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects approximately 500,000 people in the United States while Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is widely unknown in the States. Following a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis, many individuals and families seek specialists to provide ongoing care and treatment. These specialists may include a physical therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and/or neurologist. Many individuals and families who seek out these services find that they progress… but they also seem to plateau after a certain point. After this point, it can seem that there is nothing left to do but continue the same path of managing but not really progressing. That is, until Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy steps in.  

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a noninvasive and specialized form of medical treatment administered by delivering 100% pure oxygen to the body. Normal air only has oxygen levels of 21% so the difference is dramatic! The body naturally uses oxygen to heal, so increasing the amount of oxygen delivered to the body and into the bloodstream accelerates the body’s ability to heal and progress. The only thing the patient has to do? Breathe.  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has widespread benefits that improve and treat symptoms for many different conditions. The general healing power of HBOT makes it a promising option for what seems to be an endless list of injuries and conditions. Especially when used in conjunction with other types of therapies and/or treatments, HBOT is a tremendous tool to help individuals progress and heal.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Benefits Cerebral Palsy  

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects movement and posture. CP is caused by damage to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth. In essence, the damage to the brain that causes CP is a traumatic brain injury, so CP can be treated very similarly to a brain injury. HBOT is effective in the treatment of CP because it can increase the amount of oxygen that reaches the damaged areas of the brain. This increased oxygen can help to reduce inflammation and promote the repair to bone and soft tissue. 

Studies have shown that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is effective in improving some symptoms of Cerebral Palsy, such as spasticity, motor function, and cognitive function. HBOT is able to decrease inflammation, enhance vascular activity, encourage nerve cell growth, and improve gross motor function. Research has also shown a decrease in muscle spasms and sleep disorders for individuals with CP who have used HBOT.  

Overall, while there is no cure for Cerebral Palsy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a wonderful option to help manage symptoms, progress, and improve quality of life. Treatments can be especially effective when HBOT is used in conjunction with other therapies, such as physical therapy, intensive TheraSuit therapy, speech therapy, and more.  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at The Oxford Center 

Hyperbaric Chambers

The Oxford Center is proud to be a leading provider of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Michigan. Our facility uses the highest quality technology available, and we follow strict guidelines to ensure our patients receive the best possible care. Children who participate in HBOT love sitting and playing during their therapy, and we offer access to many different streaming services so that patients can lay back and watch their favorite movies or shows during their therapy!  

The Oxford Center has a long, personal history with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Our CEO and Founder, Tami Peterson, found HBOT while searching for something to help her daughter after doctors said there was nothing more to be done. HBOT was able to give Tami her hope back after everything else was lost, and that is what we have found to happen with many of our clients. Now, it is our mission to spread the healing power of HBOT so that others can hope again as well.  

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Other Cerebral Palsy Services at The Oxford Center  

Just like every person is different, every child has different needs and therapies that will work best for them. Here at The Oxford Center, we offer a number of therapies that can help improve symptoms related to a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis. I.e., Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, Intensive Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and our Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner. This integrative approach allows every individual with Cerebral Palsy to get the therapies they need. No matter what needs you or your child may have, The Oxford Center is here to help!  

Gracie uses the TheraSuit Method
Speech Therapy Outside Talker
PT
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What are alternative treatments for cerebral palsy?

TOC Talks Episode 4: “What are Alternative Treatments for Cerebral Palsy?”

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

March is Cerebral Palsy month! This week we discuss what Cerebral Palsy is, a parent’s journey through diagnosing her child with Cerebral Palsy, and what ALTERNATIVE treatments are out there! In this episode of TOC Talks our host sits down with Emily Kistner, a registered nurse at The Oxford Center and mother to a daughter with Cerebral Palsy, to talk about Cerebral Palsy and how The Oxford Center gave her hope back when it was lost! 

Check It Out!

Want to see more about Gracie’s journey with Cerebral Palsy? Check out her YouTube channel below!

Gracie CP Recovery Journey – YouTube

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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Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month!

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, Events, Informational, Specific Conditions.

Welcome to CP Awareness month! CP stands for Cerebral Palsy, and all of March is dedicated to raising awareness about this condition, so The Oxford Center is going to join in this endeavor. Many of us may have a family member or know someone with Cerebral Palsy, but we might not actually know much about the condition. Thankfully, The Oxford Center is here to help you learn more and raise awareness about this condition!  

What is Cerebral Palsy? 

Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement, posture, and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, which can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or early childhood. At this point, Cerebral Palsy affects roughly 1 in 500 children worldwide, and its severity can vary widely from person to person. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Specifically, some common symptoms include poor muscle control, difficulty with balance and coordination, spasticity or stiffness in the muscles, and tremors or involuntary movements. Other symptoms may include difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothes, difficulty with speech and swallowing, and intellectual disabilities. 

Treatment Options

There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are several treatment options that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are often recommended to help with muscle strength and mobility, as well as to help with daily activities such as dressing and feeding. Speech therapy can also help with communication and swallowing difficulties.

The Oxford Center 

Just like every person is different, every child has different needs and therapies that will work best for them. Here at The Oxford Center, we offer a number of therapies that can help improve symptoms related to a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis. I.e. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, Intensive Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy, and our Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner. This integrative approach allows every individual with Cerebral palsy to get the therapies they need. No matter what needs you or your child may have, The Oxford Center is here to help!  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Chambers

Finally, one treatment option that has gained attention in recent years is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). HBOT utilizes 100% medical grade vaporized oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure which increases the oxygen in the bloodstream and tissues. The research behind using HBOT for Cerebral Palsy shows that the increased oxygen supply helps to reduce inflammation, promotes the growth of new blood vessels, and increases circulating stem cells, which heals and repairs damaged tissue throughout the body and brain and can improve the symptoms associated with Cerebral Palsy.

Overall, while there is no cure for Cerebral Palsy, there are many treatment options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It is important for individuals with Cerebral Palsy to work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, therapists, and specialists, to tailor a treatment plan to their specific needs and goals. 

Intensive Physical Therapy

Intensive Physical Therapy

Intensive Physical Therapy is five days per week for three hours each day. The main goal is to achieve maximum functional improvement. It includes exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Our Physical Therapists will use advanced techniques that have been proven to be effective in improving muscle strength, reducing spasticity, and enhancing the patient’s ability to perform daily activities. Finally, combined with our daily intensive program, Suit Therapy can accelerate the development of new motor skills that strengthen muscles and teach the brain and body how to sit, stand, and walk. 

If you know someone living with Cerebral Palsy, call the Oxford Center to find out how we can help. Call us at 248-486-3636 to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our nurses to learn more about our therapies and how they can help you on your journey.

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How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Help Stroke Patients

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, HBOT/Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Informational, Specific Conditions, Specific Therapies.

Having a stroke is often a terrifying and debilitating event in someone’s life that comes with many health complications. Many stroke patients find themselves with severe challenges but little to no options for how to recover from those complications. That’s why The Oxford Center offers hope in combining Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and stroke.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke is a serious medical condition occurring when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted. This may be due to a blood clot (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Because this interruption of blood flow deprives the affected brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, the affected brain cells can die. Stroke can cause permanent disability or death, depending on the severity and location of the brain damage. For this reason, it is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to minimize brain damage and increase the chances of recovery. 

Side Effects & Recognizing Signs of a Stroke

The side effects of a stroke can vary depending on the location and severity of the brain damage. Some of the common side effects of a stroke can include paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, loss of balance or coordination, numbness or tingling in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty swallowing, cognitive and memory problems, and emotional changes, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability. 

It’s important to recognize the signs of a stroke and seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing them. To help you remember, the most common signs of a stroke follow the acronym “FAST”: 

  • Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or be numb, so the person may not be able to smile evenly. 
  • Arm weakness: One arm may be weak or numb, so the person may not be able to raise both arms evenly. 
  • Speech difficulty: The person may have slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding others. 
  • Time to call for emergency help: With this in mind, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, call for emergency medical help right away. Time is critical when it comes to treating a stroke and quick medical attention can reduce the risk of permanent brain damage and disability. 

Health Concerns Post-Stroke 

There are many potential health concerns that can arise after a stroke. These concerns can vary depending on the severity and location of the stroke, as well as the individual’s overall health and medical history. For example, these health concerns include: 

  • Physical impairments (weakness or paralysis, balance and coordination issues, changes in sensation) 
  • Cognitive and emotional changes (memory and concentration difficulties, depression, anxiety) 
  • Speech and communication difficulties 
  • Swallowing problems 
  • Bladder or bowel control issues 

Because of these concerns, it is important to monitor and manage your concerns with the help of a healthcare team. Your team may include a neurologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, psychologist, and other specialists as needed. Prompt recognition and treatment of any new or worsening symptoms is also important, as it can help prevent complications and improve outcomes. 

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?  

Hyperbaric Chambers

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) utilizes 100% medical grade vaporized oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure which increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood and delivered to the tissues. HBOT has been used for decades to treat various conditions, such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, diabetic foot ulcers, and chronic wounds. 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! In recent years, HBOT has been investigated for its potential benefits in stroke patients, both in the acute and chronic phases. 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy & Stroke Research  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy offers a promising alternative or complementary option for stroke recovery. Several studies have shown that HBOT can improve neurological and cognitive function, and quality of life in stroke patients by enhancing the brain’s natural healing mechanisms. Research studies have shown a significant improvement in long and short-term memory, processing speed, gait velocity, upper extremity mobility, sleep, and overall recovery with HBOT. 

A randomized controlled trial conducted by Boussi-Gross et al. (2017) compared the effects of HBOT versus no HBOT in 60 chronic stroke patients. The results showed that the HBOT group had significant improvements in brain metabolism, brain perfusion, and brain activity, as measured by PET and SPECT. Furthermore, the HBOT group had significant improvements in neurological function, cognitive function, and quality of life, as measured by various clinical scales and questionnaires. The authors concluded that HBOT can induce neuroplasticity and improve the function of chronically damaged brain tissue in stroke patients, even years after the initial event. 

Stroke Recovery at The Oxford Center 

The Oxford Center understands how important you and your loved one’s health and longevity is. We provide personalized care that is tailored to your specific needs and health through our therapy services including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Physical Therapy, Intensive Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, and our Functional Nutrition Therapy practitioner to optimize health and recovery.

If a stroke has left you or a loved one debilitated with a loss of fine motor skills or inability to walk call The Oxford Center. Call us at 248-486-3636 to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our nurses to learn more about our therapies and how they can help you on your journey to recovery after a stroke.

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Boussi-Gross, R., Golan, H., Fishlev, G., Bechor, Y., Volkov, O., Bergan, J., Friedman, M., Hoofien, D., Shlamkovitch, N., Ben-Jacob, E., & Efrati, S. (2017). Improvement of memory impairments in poststroke patients by hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Neuropsychology, 31(6), 636–644. 

TOC Talks Episode 3: “How The Oxford Center Began”

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

Andrew Kistner is back this week with a very important episode of our TOC Talks podcast! This week, Andrew is joined by The Oxford Center’s CEO and founder, Tami Peterson! In their discussion, Andrew dives into how and why Tami started The Oxford Center, how she learned about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, and how it really changed her daughter and her family’s life! This is definitely not an episode to miss!

Check It Out!

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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Nicole Cunningham, our new Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner and Restorative Wellness Practitioner.

February 2023 Newsletter

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

Launching our New Nutritional Services

The Oxford Center is thrilled to welcome Nicole Cunningham to our team as the head of our nutritional services program. Nicole is a certified Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) and Restorative Wellness Practitioner (RWP). Nicole offers individual and whole group nutrition classes that are highly personalized and customizable to what will best suit each individual. Our nutrition coaching seeks to help you learn more about food and how it interacts with your body, learn what foods and diets will work best for you and your specific needs, and support you on your journey to making ever-healthier nutritional choices. Clients will find that it is empowering knowing that you can change and improve your health without needing help from anything else.    

Nicole’s journey with nutrition began 10 years ago with the birth of her son, Cameron. Cameron was born with over seven true food allergies and about a dozen food sensitivities that caused his body to break out in rashes and made eating exceedingly difficult. She spent countless hours poring over research, trying different foods, and tracking the effects different foods had on her and her son’s body.  Eventually Nicole’s efforts paid off, and she eliminated all but one of her son’s food allergies. Through this journey, Nicole discovered a passion for nutrition and understanding the effects someone’s diet might have on their body and overall health.

Nicole has personally gone through everything a client would go through and is here to help guide every client on their way to understanding food and their body and improving their overall quality of life. 

Discover More About Our Nutritional Services

“TOC Talks” Podcast

The Oxford Center is excited to launch our new podcast, “The Oxford Center Talks” (or TOC Talks for short!). Our new podcast will be released on Thursdays once a week and will be able to be found on all streaming platforms with a video podcast on our Facebook and YouTube page. Every week, follow our Marketing Director Andrew Kistner as he dives into different issues and stories here at The Oxford Center with a new special guest every week! In our podcast, you can hear the personal stories of some of our patients and their journey with The Oxford Center, learn more about how some of our services can benefit different conditions, learn more about some of our staff here at The Oxford Center, discover new techniques and tips to help improve your life, and more! If you have any topics or ideas you’d like to hear about in our podcast, let us know! You can submit any thoughts, suggestions, or questions by emailing our podcast host himself, Andrew Kistner, at andrew@theoxfordcenter.com.  

Check out our first episode below and don’t forget to subscribe! 

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Check Out Our Video Podcast

Tips and Tricks for Managing ASD at Home

Any parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) knows what a challenge it can be to manage the condition at home, ON TOP of managing everything else at home. Being a parent is such a wonderful gift, but it is also a full-time job and can be exhausting at times. Adding on managing an ASD diagnosis could very easily prove to be exhausting for many parents. Thankfully, The Oxford Center can share some tips and tricks to help you manage while providing the best environment possible for your children and yourself.    

Jessica Dodson, our ABA Program Director, says “At The Oxford Center, we help create routines within a successful environment to not only help the child grow, but the whole family. I have so many parents that focus on comparing how their child is doing against how another child is doing, so I always remind my parents and caregivers that everyone has their own separate path and journey. Most importantly, remember that we will all make it through our paths with a little teamwork and perseverance.” 

Read More on Managing ASD
Compass Logo

COMPASS Program Update

Our COMPASS program is underway! All of our students have been working very hard this past month. Our COMPASS program is targeted towards teens and adults diagnosed with autism and other developmental disorders. In this program, we help these individuals learn the skills needed to move on to the next stage of their life whether that be going to and succeeding in higher education, living independently, obtaining and maintaining meaningful employment, and more. 

We talked to Matt Nivison, our COMPASS Coordinator, and he has this to say about the first class of COMPASS students. “The first class is going excellent. I am so incredibly proud of them all. You can see how hard they’re working, how quickly they’re picking things up, and just how much they want this. Every day, they’re actively taking steps to succeed and grow and it’s so cool to watch it happen in an environment where they don’t have to worry about the negative consequences that we all faced in our first jobs. They’re learning what works for them while gaining experience and confidence! It’s really, very cool”. 

The program will run for approximately 6 months, 5 days per week, for 3 hours per day. If you would like to learn more about the program or ask about enrollment, please feel free to contact us at 248-486-3636.

Learn More About COMPASS

Oxford Kids Foundation Annual Fundraising Gala

Don’t forget The Oxford Center will be hosting the 13th Annual Fundraising Gala Dinner and Auction for the Oxford Kids Foundation on April 22nd! This event is a longstanding and beloved tradition in raising funds to support children with disabilities, chronic illness, and traumatic injuries.  

Tickets for the Gala are available for purchase now. Tickets will feature fine dining, access to our silent/live auction, and drinks will be available. For more information on the Gala and how to purchase tickets, please click here.  

If you or anyone you know is interested in sponsoring the “Be the Change” gala event, please click here for more information or contact andrew@oxfordkidsfoundation.org to look over a sponsorship packet. The Oxford Kids Foundation is also accepting donations of any unique quality to be included in the Gala’s silent/live auction. If you would like to make any item donations to the Gala auction, please contact Andrew Kistner at andrew@oxfordkidsfoundation.org.

We can’t wait to be a part of the change with you!

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You’ve Just had a Heart Attack… Now What? 

Written by Alysia Shinaberry on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, HBOT/Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Informational, Specific Conditions.

I know from personal experience how terrifying it is when you hear that a loved one is having a heart attack. Your stomach drops, your body turns cold, and time seems to freeze. Everything that may have been taken for granted previously is suddenly called into question. What’s happening? Will they be okay? What do I do? What if…? 

Despite the fear and uncertainty that comes with a heart attack, it’s important to remember that recovery is possible. Whether you or a loved one have recently experienced a heart attack, or if you’re simply looking for ways to protect your cardiovascular health, we can help provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your care and well-being. 

What Causes a Heart Attack?  

A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing damage or death to part of the muscle. The most common cause of heart attacks is coronary artery disease, where plaques in the arteries restrict blood flow. High blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, family history, obesity, and physical inactivity are also common causes. To reduce the risk of heart attacks, people can make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and working with their healthcare team. 

Heart attack symptoms in men and women.
Heart attack symptoms in men and women.

Side Effects of a Heart Attack 

A heart attack can have a range of physical and emotional side effects that may persist for varying periods of time after the event. Here are some of the most common side effects: 

  • Chest pain or discomfort: You may experience chest pain or discomfort, which can range from mild to severe, for several days or weeks. 
  • Shortness of breath: You may experience shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, for a few weeks or months.
  • Fatigue: You may feel very tired for several weeks or months, which can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks and activities. 
  • Weakness: You may feel weak, especially in your arms and legs, for several weeks or months. 
  • Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet: You may experience swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, which can be a sign of fluid buildup in your body. 
  • Irregular heartbeats: You may experience irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias, for several weeks or months. 
  • Depression: You may experience feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress, which can be common among people who have experienced a major health event. 
  • Cognitive changes: Some people may experience cognitive changes, such as memory loss or confusion, which can be temporary or permanent. 
  • Sexual dysfunction: You may experience sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction, for several weeks or months. 

These side effects can vary from person to person and can persist for different lengths of time. It’s important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and any concerns you have, so that you can receive the support and treatment you need during your recovery. 

What to Expect After a Heart Attack 

After a heart attack, physical and emotional symptoms are common along with the recovery process. Physical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs can persist for a few days or weeks. Hospitalization is necessary for most people, and medications will be prescribed to manage heart health. Additionally, lifestyle changes and follow-up appointments with the doctor are recommended. Emotional symptoms are common (like anxiety, depression, and stress) and support from friends, family, and mental health professionals can help. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare team and make positive changes to increase your chances of a successful recovery and reduce the risk of future heart attacks.

How The Oxford Center Can Help 

At The Oxford Center, we know how important it is to make sure our loved ones are receiving the best care possible. That’s why we offer multiple therapies and options to help heart attack survivors on their way to recovery and prevention. Our medical center uses research-based, alternative treatments to provide you with the highest quality care. We are here to offer you hope for healing when you may not have had many options.  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) 

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments are extremely successful in helping to promote health after a heart attack.
HBOT treatments are extremely successful in helping to promote health after a heart attack.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increased oxygen flow can help to speed up the healing process and promote your recovery. Some benefits of HBOT for heart attack survivors include:  

  • Improving Heart Health: HBOT has been shown to improve heart health by increasing the oxygen supply to the heart and reducing inflammation. This can reduce the risk of having another heart attack and improve overall heart health. 
  • Stimulating Healing: HBOT can stimulate the body’s natural healing process, which can repair damaged tissue and reduce inflammation. This can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of having another heart attack in the future. 
  • Reducing Inflammation: HBOT can also reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common contributor to heart disease. By reducing inflammation, HBOT can improve heart health and reduce the risk of having another heart attack. 

Research suggests that HBOT treatments may decrease mortality rate by 50%. HBOT can reduce the volume of damaged muscle and decrease the risk of adverse cardiac events. According to research, HBOT induces neuroplasticity and significantly improves symptoms in those with cognitive impairment after a heart attack. Research has also shown that the addition of HBOT can make it possible to increase the 5-year survival rate after a heart attack from 84.4% to 95.9%.

Hyperbaric oxygen treatments have been extremely successful for heart attack patients here at The Oxford Center. We have had patients swear their HBOT treatments are the only reason they’re alive today, and patients that have reported back to their doctor showing no signs of damage or scarring after having HBOT treatments following their heart attack.

Nutritional Services 

Nutritional changes can help promote health after a heart attack.
Nutritional changes can help promote health after a heart attack.

Your diet is a common thing to change after having a heart attack. Nutritional services can play a critical role in the recovery and long-term health of heart attack survivors. Luckily, we offer nutritional services at The Oxford Center to help you on your journey. Nicole, our Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) is ready to help you learn more about food, your body, and what foods will work the best for you, your life, and your health. We offer highly customizable individual and group classes that can give you whatever level of support you need while providing guidance in what will work best for you. We will work with the you to develop a personalized nutrition plan that takes into account your specific health needs and dietary restrictions Clients find that it is empowering knowing that you can change and improve your health without needing help from anything else.  

Physical Therapy  

Physical therapy can help teach new exercises and regain mobility after a heart attack.
Physical therapy can help teach new exercises and regain mobility after a heart attack.

Heart attack survivors often struggle with physical endurance and strength after an attack, and some may have even sustained physical impairments as a side effect. Physical therapy can be a critical part of the recovery process for heart attack survivors. It can help rebuild strength, increase flexibility, and improve overall physical function after the event. At The Oxford Center, a physical therapist will work with you to develop a program that is tailored to your individual needs and abilities. This can include a variety of exercises, such as cardiovascular activities, strength training, and range-of-motion exercises. Your therapist may also work with you on balance and coordination exercises, which can be especially important for older adults who may be at increased risk of falls after a heart attack. By working with a physical therapist, heart attack survivors can regain their physical abilities and improve their overall health and well-being. 

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