The drug Pitocin is a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin, which (among other important roles) helps to trigger the onset of labor. Pitocin can be administered intravenously to induce labor or enhance contraction activity. It is sometimes also used to control maternal bleeding after childbirth (1). While Pitocin can have notable benefits, its use […]
Should Non-Disabled People Use Accessible Bathroom Stalls?
Back in 1999, the author (at the time) of popular Slate column “Dear Prudence” found herself in hot water after answering an etiquette question dealing with accessible bathroom stalls. She had told a letter writer that it was fine for non-disabled people to make a habit of using these stalls simply because of personal preference, […]
What Is Aqua Therapy?
Aqua therapy, also known as “aquatic physical therapy” and “hydrotherapy,” is an evidence-based practice aimed at helping patients with a wide variety of conditions. As with other forms of physical therapy, aqua therapy involves the oversight of a licensed practitioner and the adherence to an individualized plan of care. Many patients do other types of […]
Is HIE a Birth Injury?
Yes, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of birth injury in which the baby’s brain is damaged due to insufficient flow of oxygenated blood. In order to reach the baby in utero, oxygen molecules must travel through both the maternal and fetal bloodstreams, in the following pathway: Mother’s lungs Mother’s heart Mother’s vasculature Mother’s uterus […]
Cerebral Palsy and Medical Marijuana: What We Know
To date, medical marijuana and the non-intoxicating compound of marijuana, CBD oil, have not been standard treatment options for the symptoms of cerebral palsy (CP) and similar conditions, like hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). A few key studies, however, suggest that they provide benefits in treating some of the symptoms commonly associated with these conditions. These symptoms […]