A recent study found that the majority of children with a syndrome that temporarily paralyses or weakens the facial muscles recover without the need of medication within six months.
According to studies conducted by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and published in Neurology, prednisolone had no appreciable impact on a child’s ability to recover from Bell’s palsy.
While research on adults with Bell’s palsy had indicated that administering steroids helped to decrease facial nerve swelling and temporal bone damage, Franz Babl, a professor at Murdoch Children’s Hospital, highlighted that no comparable studies had been carried out on children.
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The randomised-controlled study included 187 Bell’s palsy patients who visited EDs between the ages of six months and 17 years. The investigation was carried out in 11 EDs using sites provided by the Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT) research network in Australia and New Zealand. Within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms, they were enrolled, and for 10 days, either prednisolone or a placebo was given to them (no active drug).
The study found that 57% of those who did not take any medication had their facial function back after one month, 85% had it back after three months, and 93% had it back after six months.
Recovery rates were 49% after one month, 90% after three months, and 95% after six months in those who received prednisolone. The most frequent negative effects were short-term behavioural changes and an increase in hunger. Throughout the experiment, no harmful side effects were identified.
Bell’s palsy, which causes the lower half of the face to droop, is the third most common disorder in children causing a sudden change in nerve function. Although the precise cause of facial paralysis is frequently unknown, it could be related to a viral infection.
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Professor Babl claims that while the use of steroids in children with Bell’s palsy has not been established, other therapeutic modalities have been used. General practitioners, emergency department doctors, and paediatricians may be better able to have informed discussions with affected families if they are aware that early prednisolone medication doesn’t speed up recovery.
In today’s digital age, computer operators play a crucial role in various industries, spending extended hours in front of screens to ensure smooth operations. However, this sedentary lifestyle can take a toll on their physical and mental well-being. To combat the challenges posed by long hours of computer use, we have compiled a list of 10 best activity hacks to promote a healthier and more balanced lifestyle for computer operators.
lifestyle for Regular Eye Breaks
The first and foremost activity hack is to encourage computer operators to take regular eye breaks. Every hour, remind them to look away from the screen and focus on a distant object for 20-30 seconds. This simple practice helps reduce eye strain and prevent computer vision syndrome.
Create Ergonomic Workstations
Investing in ergonomic workstations is vital to safeguard the health of computer operators. Adjustable chairs, keyboards, and monitors ensure proper posture, minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal issues like neck and back pain.
Incorporate Stretching Exercises
Introduce quick and effective stretching exercises that target areas prone to tension—neck, shoulders, wrists, and back. Encourage computer operators to take short stretching breaks, enhancing flexibility and reducing the likelihood of repetitive strain injuries.
Engage in Fitness Challenges
Organize fitness challenges that inspire computer operators to integrate physical activity into their daily routines. Step count contests or stair-climbing challenges can encourage movement and boost overall fitness levels.
Practice Mindfulness for Mental Breaks
Promote mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, during breaks. These activities help reduce stress levels, enhance focus, and improve overall mental well-being.
Offer Healthy Snack Options
Support healthy eating habits by providing nutritious snack options in the workplace. Fruits, nuts, and yogurt can be excellent alternatives to sugary or processed snacks, ensuring sustained energy levels throughout the day.
Foster Knowledge Sharing Sessions
Organize workshops or knowledge-sharing sessions on topics like time management, stress reduction, and personal development. These sessions not only enrich computer operators’ skills but also contribute to a positive work environment.
Implement Flexible Work Schedules
Offer flexible work arrangements to enable computer operators to balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Flexibility empowers them to take care of their well-being without compromising on productivity.
Cultivate Social Connections
Foster a sense of camaraderie among computer operators by organizing team-building activities and social events. Building meaningful relationships within the workplace positively impacts motivation and job satisfaction.
Support Skill Development
Provide opportunities for skill development and career advancement relevant to computer operators’ roles. Training and learning programs not only enhance their knowledge but also boost confidence and job engagement.
By implementing these 10 activity hacks, companies can transform the lifestyles of computer operators for the better. Prioritizing their physical health, mental well-being, and personal development creates a happier, more productive, and motivated workforce. Empowering computer operators with the tools and resources for a healthier lifestyle not only benefits them as individuals but also leads to increased efficiency and success in the digital workspace. Together, let’s work towards cultivating a healthier, happier future for computer operators and all professionals in the digital era.