The Holidays are Here

So the Holidays are here and needless to say it puts a bit of a damper when you watch the news or follow the stock market. But amidst all of this hoopla, it's important to remember what the Holidays are all about...family. Spend time with those you love and remember the true meaning of it all.

Also, keep your eye out for changes. This blog is a bit outdated so look for some customization coming in the near future.

New Contributor

I've just received an invite as a new contributor. Essentially, I will be taking over on writing for this blog so if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment and I'll be sure to get back to you shortly. Take it easy, sleep well, eat healthy, and get active.

Get a Free iPod

So there is this new deal from Apple saying that if you purchase any one of their Macbook laptops from now until September 15th, they'll give you a free iPod. This is very fitting because I am in the market for a new computer and I have heard great things about the Macbook. One of my old co-workers at allegro medical recently relocated to the bay area in California to take a gig with Apple and he was the one that turned me on to the Macbook. I'm not big on iPods, but it's cool, I can just give it to my girlfriend. She is a fan of the new iPod touch.

Exercise and Rest

So it's no secret, actually, it's kind of a no-brainer that exercise and plenty of good rest can jump-start your health. The hardest thing about exercising is just getting started so if you're looking around and feeling lazy, just think of your loved ones and I'll bet that if you start yourself on a good workout routine today, you'll have a few extra years to enjoy with them.

Leave a Comment...I'm a Follower

As a blogger and a marketer, I understand the importance of participating in the blogospere to help and get the word out. After all, a great product or a killer price don't mean anything unless people know about it. Also, since I've been away for so long I'd like to make it up to my readers by opening up our blog for some link juice.

In order to expand, I'm opening up this blog to use a "dofollow" tag so that your site will retain some link authority. Take into consideration that I will delete any comments that aren’t relevant or that are not thought out such as “nice post”. I’d like to give links to thoughtful, relevant commenters and people with good intentions about their products or services.

The Allegro Medical Affiliate Program

We have recently launched our Affiliate Program and the exciting event is long overdue. Allegro has seen a lot of success since our first website launch in 1997. We have been able to keep ahead of the competition new to the market and keep up with customer demands. Our affiliate program has been an integral part to the success of Allegro Medical. When we first ran it close to half of a century ago, we ran it in-house and it was largely successful but in hopes of experimenting and reaching a different audience, we teamed up with Commission Junction. In hindsight, this move hindered our potential as medical supply affiliates.

In an attempt to touch base with our successful clients from the past and reach an even broader audience in our target market, we have yet again brought the affiliate program in-house and revamped it to fit our needs as well as the needs of our publishers. We are now able to offer a 5% commission on all sales. The result will equate to long and profitable partnerships for us and our affiliates.

To read more about the Allegro Medical Affiliate Program click here and join today!

X2 vest Weight Vest

The X2Vest is the best selling weight vest at Allegro Medical. This item was featured on the Today Show on NBC a few years back. I have one myself and as a Kung Fu student, I love it. It really gives me a great workout and I can actually feel my joints gaining strength and flexibility. At first it was a bit tough and I was afraid of damaging my knees, but if you start out right and build up, this weight vest can help you lose weight, gain muscle, increase cardio endurance, and most importantly, increase confidence. I use mine for Kung Fu, but I know many other people use them in conjunction with weight lifting, running, jogging, playing basketball, and even just walking. Just wearing the weight vest is a workout. The important thing is put the right amount in to save your joints while you get a boost in your current workout regime, or just your after dinner walk.



A similar product was recently featured on the Oprah website. Someone had been on the show and used a weight vest to shed off unwanted pounds. It really is that easy, just wearing the weighted walking vest can increase your health exponentially.

Toilevator Toilet Riser

Many elders and those with hip replacement kits have troubles with their toilet seats sitting too low. Sure there are plenty of grab bars and toilet safety frames out there, but the bottom line is the patient still needs to sit all the way down and pull himself/herself all the way back up. Good thing there is the Toilevator Toilet Seat Riser.

The Toilevator Toilet Riser was designed to provide a dignified, stable, cost effective and easy to install alternative to unsightly, hard to clean, elevated toilet seats. Unlike raised toilet seats which attach to the top of the toilet, the Toilevator installs at the base of the toilet increasing the stability of the commode. The Toilevator raises toilet seats a full 3-and-a-half inches to increase the quality of life and security in the bathroom. These have been used for many years and you can expect many more from a trusted brand in Toilet Elevators.

Tube Feeding - The Reliability of Duocal

If your child is being tube fed, whether temporarily or permanently, it is is stressful time. You want to make sure your child is being fed the best nutrients available using the best equipment on the market. We understand your loved ones are important to you and that is why we suggest using Duocal powder for supplemental nutrition.

Duocal is a high-calorie, protein-free, lactose-free, gluten-free powdered food that can be used orally or in tube feedings. It is suitable for children over a year old and was developed specifically for the remedy of protein and electrolyte restrictions in diets. Check out this other blog post on Duocal and Tube Feeding.

Happy Valentine's Day

Love is in the air! Remember that today is the day to let your loved ones know how much you love them, but more importantly, remember that February is Heart Month. Don't forget to show your heart some love as well. Stop by Allegro Medical for our array of Heart Rate Monitors and begin to track your progress to maximize your efforts for a healthier you. Don't forget to supplement that progress with some durable Fitness Equipment.

Don't forget to take care of yourself as you take care of your loved ones. After all, what's life without health?

Sweetheart Alarm Clock

Make sure your sweetie never sleeps in again with the Sweetheart Alarm Clock from Sonic Boom. The Sweetheart Alarm Clock was designed with young ladies in mind with it's loving shape and magnetic color that's just begging for love. Not only is the Sonic Boom Alarm attractive, it's also effective. It comes with a vibrating bed shaker to add to the loud 113db (of course it's adjustable) ring so you'll never sleep in, unless of course you intend to.

Did you know that February is American Heart Month?

February is American Heart Month and this is the month to promise yourself a better you if you haven't already for this wonderful 2008. February is always popular for Ash Wednesday, Chinese New Year, and of course, Valentine's Day. But one thing about February that is great, is that its the month that many volunteers from the American Heart Association visit their neighbors and get the word out in order to raise funds for research and education about heart disease and stroke, the nation's number one killer.

Although many of you are good to your sweethearts this month, don't forget to be great to your own heart. Get out, take a walk, have a stroll with the dog, enjoy the outdoors and enjoy your life, it's too short to be inside all of the time. Be good to your heart and it will in turn be good to you.

Practicing Home Safety

Home Safety is a growing concern for families all over the world as more and more homes are having children or housing the elderly and those with disabilities. It's always a good idea to install extra grab bars in the bathroom to assist with mobility and comfort. Don't forget to properly install smoke detectors in case of a fire emergency in the house and use night lights in the hallways at night to help prevent falls or accidents.

The Home Safety Council suggests these and more great tips to keep you and your family safe at all hours of the busy day. Visit their website and keep your humble abode safe and sound.

Daily Living Aids in The Bathroom

The bathroom is such a dangerous place for elders or those with disabilities. They can may have trouble standing up from the toilet, need to sit down in order to bath, or worse, slip and fall on the tile due to a lack of handling aids available. Luckily, Allegro Medical has tons of Bathroom Assist items for increased safety, security and confidence in the bathroom.

Commodes and Commode Accessories
The Bathroom Commode is great for those who have difficulty getting on or off of the toilet. There is one with a weight capacity of 300 pounds from Invacare called the All-in-One Commode with height adjustments that can be made in 1" increments from 23" to 29". This is on commode that can be used bedside with a backrest or it can act as a toilet safety frame or raised toilet seat. If you prefer one that can store out of the way for relatives and visitors that come to town, perhaps the Folding Commode would be a better fit for you. For a mobile commode, there is a Drop Arm Shower Chair and Commode that converts into a wheeled shower chair as well.

Raised Toilet Seats
Depending on whether you'd like a elevated toilet seat extension or a kit that raises the entire toilet seat, there is bound to be a Raised Toilet Seat fit just for you. A popular model of toilet seat risers is the Toilevator Toilet Seat Riser. The Toilevator raises the entire base of the toilet off of the ground for more stability. We also have a Toilet Seat Extender with Arms to assist in your mobility on and off of the toilet that simply and securely attaches to any bathroom commode.

Grab Bars
Grab Bars are widely used in the bathroom, but this is an item so necessary for safety, it can be used anywhere in the house. They can be installed anywhere and used for just about anything. A very versatile set is the set of Suction Cup Grab Bars. Release levers make installing and removing the portable suction cup grab bars easy. Or if you prefer something installed check out the Invacare Knurled Grab Bars. Although not as mobile, these grab bars definitely do more than get the job done. They are rust-resistant and can hold up to 250 lbs.

Be sure to check out Allegro Medical for more of these Daily Living Aids and Bathroom Assist items.

The Cho-Pat Knee Brace

Cho-Pat Dual Action Knee Strap

The newly patented Cho-Pat Knee Strap provides an extra dimension of relief for painful and weakened knees. It was designed to help nurse and prevent injuries.

The knee strap applies pressure upon the patellar tendon below the kneecap to stabilize and tighten up the kneecap mechanism, which improves patellar tracking and elevation and reduces patellar subluxation. It adds further strengthening to the kneecap mechanism by applying pressure on the tendon above the kneecap as well. This tends to reduce the forces of the quadriceps on the patella tendon and erosion of the undersurface of the kneecap due to a possible misalignment of the quadriceps (Q angle).



The device’s design and construction apply constant dynamic forces to the surrounding areas of the knee reducing the likelihood of overuse syndromes. At the same time, the strap allows for full mobility while providing maximum benefits.

The Dual Action Knee Strap incorporates some of the advantages of the original Knee Strap plus the added benefits of further strengthening the kneecap mechanism by applying pressure on the tendon above the kneecap as well. This tends to reduce the forces of the quadriceps on the patella tendon and erosion of the under surface of the kneecap due to a possible misalignment of the quadriceps (Q-angle).

AquaBells Travel Water Weights

Take Your Fitness on The Road With Aqua Bell Dumbells
Are you a fitness freak? Are you a road warrior? Or do you just take the occasional bi-yearly trip out of town while you still attempt to workout away from home? Whatever your level of travel or fitness may be, the AquaBells Travel Water Weights.

Aqua Bell Dumbbells allow you to maintain your weight training while you travel without any overweight luggage! Aqua Bells are the totally portable and collapsible fitness solution for people on the go. At last, a portable gym that fits into your briefcase! Carrying your weights through airports are impractical, but with AquaBells you can continue your workout program no matter where you go, without adding extra weight or luggage for your trip.

The set of AquaBells Water Filled Dumbbells weigh less than 26 ounces and are so compact they can even fit into your briefcase. Just fill with water at your destination, and these innovative weights when filled, can provide up to 16 lbs. of resistance per dumbbell. When your ready to work out simply fill the Aqua Bell weights to your desired weight and secure them on the cushioned bars. When its time to pack your AquaBells, empty in seconds. Work out in the privacy of your hotel room, home, or office. Guaranteed not to leak. Great for physical therapy, and also can be used for water resistance programs when in swimming pools, too! The set includes two 13" long bars, with soft cushioned grip handles, with eight fillable weights.

Wishing you a great '08 from Allegro Medical

Thank You Happy Holidays from Allegro Medical

All of us at Allegro Medical would like to thank you and wish you the cheeriest of Holiday joy this season. We had a great 2007 with you and we look forward to a great and successful 2008.

During 2007, we’ve unveiled many new technologies and enhancements to make your user experience a bit more enjoyable. If simplicity and trust were the names of the game, we worked hard to get at and stay on top of your list. We understand you were busy and we wanted to make sure we were there for you when you needed us with the utmost product offerings, competitive prices and invaluable customer support. We even added an Auto Re-Order function to benefit those customers requiring uninterrupted shipments of essential medical supplies and consumable products such as diabetic test strips, catheters, dietary supplements and wound care supplies. We also added a Shop by Condition as well as a Shop by Body Part feature, but that’s not the greatest part of it all: we’re still improving and will continue to do so to enhance your client experience with us. We want to make sure that each year will be even better than the last one. To show our appreciation for your loyalty we would like to offer $5 off your next purchase of $50 or more. Simply type gift certificate code "DEC12" at check out for instant savings. This offer is valid from December 24, 2007 - January 1, 2008 and is not valid with any other offers. In 2008 you’ll see constant improvement in ease of use and more of what you need offered at less than what you’ll see anywhere else.

Again we wanted to thank you for your support and we look forward to hearing from you in 2008.


Sincerely,
The Allegro Medical Family

Can't get their gifts in time? Use Expect-a-Gift

There is still time to order their gift

If you're still needing to do some last second shopping but don't have the time, energy, patience or finances to mingle in the crowds at the mall, then Allegro Medical's Expect-a-Gift is your answer. Expect-a-Gift notifies your friends or loved ones by email that their gift is on its way with your personalized Expect-a-Gift notice. Or, you can create a notification card, print it, fold it and hand it to the recipient so you don't show up empty handed.

Using Expect-a-Gift is easy. Just go to www.AllegroMedical.com and find a product, click on the 'Expect-a-Gift' link, select your card of choice, enter your gift information, then send or print your card.

Guide to Catheters and Urological Supplies

Urinary catheters are used on patients that cannot urinate on their own for medical conditions such as prostate enlargement and incontinence, after certain surgeries, when the lower part of the body is paralyzed, or if the patient is unable to use a bedpan. Catheters come in various sizes, types and materials, and can be for short or long term (indwelling) use.

With long term catheterization it is important, to avoid urinary tract infections, to keep the catheter clean and bacteria-free. An indwelling catheter should be replaced every three to six weeks with a new catheter. Indwelling catheters require a bag to collect the urine. Leg bags are discreetly strapped to the patient’s leg for daytime use, and are easy to empty. For nighttime use, a bag is usually hung on the patient’s bed and emptied in the morning.

Intermittent catheterization is sometimes necessary after certain gynecological surgeries, or for conditions that require assistance emptying the bladder. Self-catheterization can be taught to most patients, for an as-needed solution to empty the bladder at least four times per day. The area is cleaned, then lubricant may be added to ease insertion. One end of the catheter is placed in a container, and the other is inserted into the urethra until urine flow begins. Once the flow stops the catheter is removed and cleaned for the next time, or simply thrown away. Training is required for self catheterization, so talk to your healthcare professional for assistance.

An external or condom catheter, which fits on the outside of the penis using adhesive, can be used for short-term catheterization in males.

Allegro Medical is the place to go for your urological supplies. We have every type of catheter, plus accessories, all at ultra low prices. Be sure to check out the Mentor Catheter website as well.

Catheters

We have everything you need for self catheterization with an Intermittent Catheter. Choose straight tip, hydrophilic, latex, coude tip, or whatever your preference. Purchase singly or by the case.

For latex allergies, use Latex-Free Catheters. There are many sizes and styles available. Or, choose a Hydrophilic Catheter which automatically lubricates with water. The Robinson Catheter is a straight catheter with two to six holes to facilitate drainage. Comes in stiff vinyl for easier insertion, red latex for increased radiopacity (difficult to penetrate with radiation and x-ray) or plastic. Some have guides built in to make self-catheterization easier. A Self-Catheterization Kit includes everything you need for self-catheterization – a catheter, sterile gloves, drape and swabs.

The Foley Catheter, for longer term catheterization, is available in a variety of materials including latex and silicone, with elastomers coating, hydrophilic coating, and silver coating for anti-microbial action. Foley catheters come in coude, (bent tip for easier passage through an enlarged prostate), two way or three way for use after bladder or prostate surgery. They are also sold singly or by the case - a great value from Allegro.

External Male Catheters reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, and are easy for patients to use. Available in latex or latex free, in several sizes for a perfect fit.

Catheter Insertion Trays include everything you need to insert a catheter, in one convenient package. Trays come with or without the catheter. Purchase per tray or by the case for best value. Stock up on Surgilube Lubricating Jelly in tubes or single use packs. We also have Irrigation Supplies including syringes, solutions and kits.

Urological Accessories and Miscellaneous Supplies

Allegro has Urological Accessories for your patients for less. Hold catheters in place comfortably with a velcro closure legband, made of surgical stretch material, so it’s gentle on the skin. Or, choose hypoallergenic tape with hook and loop fasteners or adhesive foam strips to keep tubing secure, for maximum comfort. We also carry straps for leg bags.

Replacement or extension Tubing for Catheters can make all the difference in comfort for patients and caregivers.

Get all your catheter Cleaning Supplies from Allegro Medical. Includes the parts cleaning brush, cleaning solutions and odor neutralizers. Also, for catheterization prep, get your antiseptic towelettes and iodine prep pads here, for less.

Urine Collection

A Drip Collector for men who are post prostate surgery is more discreet and comfortable than undergarments, and is perfect for minor incontinence. Bedside Urinals for men and women are convenient for post-surgery and bedridden patients. Available in hard plastic reusable or disposable bottles. For catheterized patients, get bedside drainage bottles and bags with 2000cc capacity from all the top brands at great prices, right here at Allegro. Leg Bags come in all shapes and sizes, and it is a matter of preference as to which one is best for you. Disposable or reusable, Velcro or button closure, plastic or cloth straps – all are available and sold alone or by the case. The Electric Leg Bag Emptier makes it possible for those in wheelchairs to empty their own drainage bags.

Spinergy Wheels - Spinergy Wheelchair Accessories

This just in! Allegro Medical begins selling Spinergy Wheels!

Spinergy Wheelchair Wheels, the innovative leaders in wheelchair wheel manufacturing with twice the strength of stainless steel spokes at only half of the weight. The durable, long lasting Spinergy Wheels are now being sold at Allegro Medical.

Allegro sells all sizes and models of the Spinergy Wheels from sport wheels to everyday spokes so you can be sure there is a model for everyone.