Tulane Medical Center

Tulane's Rehabilitation Services

For many people facing medical crises, treatment is only the beginning of their path to health. Once their initial care is finished, patients may also require rehabilitative services to help them develop their strength, stamina, and coordination. Tulane Medical Center rehabilitation centers allows both inpatient and outpatient options for those in need. New Orleans area residents can receive occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech language pathology services from our rehabilitative specialists. Those who choose to undergo rehabilitative help on an outpatient basis may benefit from our hand therapy, lymphedema, and pelvic floor dysfunction services. Individuals staying at our inpatient rehabilitation center may take advantage of our transitional living and nutritional assistance. We also have pediatric therapy options for our youngest patients.

Would you like to learn more about the rehabilitation services at Tulane Medical Center? Call (504) 988-5263 to speak with a representative at our New Orleans hospital. We can see to it that you receive the rehabilitative care you need for a swift and full recovery.

Lifestyle Tips for Diabetics

Tulane Medical Center has seen countless diabetic patients enjoy full and healthy lives, and we can help you do the same. Central to maintaining your wellbeing is staying vigilant about self-care and immediately addressing any healthcare issues. By committing yourself to a lifelong routine of wellness, you can ward off many diabetes-related complications. The following tips can help you practice lifestyle habits that will keep you stay fit despite a diabetes diagnosis.

Keep your weight under control
Diabetic or not, it’s important to maintain a normal weight. However, when you have diabetes, obesity can become a life-threatening concern. Excessive weight can make it extremely difficult to keep your blood sugar levels in check. It also puts added strain on your circulatory system, which must already contend with the damaging effects of diabetes. That’s why it’s important to consult a physician who can help you find ways to reach your target number.

Maintain a consistent exercise regimen
If you are overweight, exercise is a great way to shed extra pounds. Physical activity can also deter evaluated blood sugar levels and circulatory complications. When you exercise, you bolster heart function and ease stress on the blood vessels, which can alleviate the onset of nerve damage in the extremities. Physical activity can also decrease stress—another cause of high blood sugar levels.

Alert your physician to any medical changes
Diabetes experts recommend that patients perform daily body checks to catch potential infection and podiatry issues. A single cut on the hand or callus on the foot can lead to significant health problems. If you notice any changes to your feet, of if you have a cut or sore that won’t heal, contact your doctor for assistance.

The Center for Diabetes at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans can help you determine the steps to take control of your condition. If you have questions about how to stabilize your blood sugar or lose weight, call us at (504) 988-5263. Patients may also visit our website to request an appointment.

Tips for Reducing High Blood Sugar

Escalating blood sugar levels may result from several factors. This video explains what circumstances may lead to high blood sugar and how you can decrease it.

Diet and exercise are two catalysts that can increase blood sugar levels. If you have recently changed your eating habits or reduced your physical activity, you may notice higher than usual blood sugar. By limiting snacks and keeping up with your exercise routine, you may be able to lower your levels. Also, consider stress factors. Many people may not realize that anxiety can spike blood sugar. If possible, incorporate stress-management techniques to alleviate your tension, which can in turn reduce your levels.

Tulane Medical Center’s diabetes care unit can help New Orleans residents cope with high blood sugar. To schedule an appointment at our Center for Diabetes, call (504) 988-5263.

Tulane Cancer Center

Have you recently received a cancer diagnosis? If so, you likely are searching for a facility that can provide the excellent treatment you need and compassionate bedside manner you deserve. Look no further than Tulane Cancer Center. Tulane Cancer Center offers a comprehensive array of cancer care options for patients suffering from a wide range of cancerous diseases. Our facility provides surgical and radiation oncology options and counseling services. Individuals who have been diagnosed with lung cancer, gynecologic cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, urologic cancer, or a head and neck cancer can receive the finest treatment available for patients in the greater New Orleans region. We also provide childhood cancer care for our youngest patients. If you want the peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated team of cancer care professionals working to make you well again, contact Tulane Cancer Center today.

Do you have more questions about the cancer care services offered at Tulane Medical Center? Then call (504) 988-5263 to schedule a consultation at our New Orleans facility. With our oncology experts at your side, you can be confident in your cancer care experience.

What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?

The body has a tremendous capacity to withstand years of labor without giving way to damage. However, parts of the body that endure constant pressure may become worn with time, which results in decreased function and heightened discomfort. Degenerative disc disease is once such manifestation of this wear and tear. Contrary to its name, degenerative disc disease is not a disease, but rather a chronic condition that stems from intervertebral disc deterioration. The following information can shed some light on this common ailment, for which Tulane Medical Center offers safe and effective treatment.

Causes
Some back conditions result from sudden traumatic force that fractures a vertebra or ruptures a disc. In contrast, degenerative disc disease typically develops over years. Intervertebral discs are flexible and sponge-like when healthy. As a person ages, however, these discs can lose the moisture that allows them to cushion the vertebrae and shift with their movement. This can then cause them to become brittle and vulnerable to further damage. In some cases, a back injury may act as the catalyst for degenerative disc disease.

Symptoms
The cervical spine and lumbar spine are the two more mobile regions of the spinal column. As a result, many people who experience degenerative disc disease will feel pain, stiffness, and sensitivity in these areas.

Treatment
Medical intervention for degenerative disc disease depends on the extent of the person’s condition. Mild cases of degenerative disc disease may entail only moderate rest, physical therapy, and occasional steroid injections or nerve blocks. Individuals suffering from advanced degenerative disc disease may require back surgery. Back surgery often involves the removal of the damaged disc and fusion of the vertebrae positioned on either side of it.

Tulane Medical Center offers a diverse range of treatment options for patients with degenerative disc disease. Don’t let your back pain get the best of you. Call our New Orleans facility today at (504) 988-5263 to schedule a consultation with a back surgery specialist.