Thursday, January 31, 2008

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.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

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.

Friday, January 18, 2008

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.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

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 Cho-Pat Dual Action Knee Brace

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).

Friday, December 28, 2007

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.

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

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

Friday, December 21, 2007

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.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

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.

Monday, December 17, 2007

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.

Friday, December 14, 2007

Guide to Shower Chairs

Shower Chairs and Bath Benches

Shower Chairs are assistive daily living aids to add safety and confidence to your bathroom tub. They allow you to sit down in the tub and shower while staying comfortable and safe. Shower Chairs come with and without backs. Some models come with padding or even a commode opening. Whatever need you have or style you may want, Allegro Medical is sure to have a shower chair to fit your needs.

To get you started, here are the top 5 reasons to shop for shower chairs at Allegro Medical.

  1. Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Shower Chair - Check out our special Bath Bench. The Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Shower Chair with arms and legs has a beautiful Pink seat and back with White arms and legs.

  2. Teak Shower Seat and Bath Bench - The Teak Shower Seat is unlike any other bath stool on the market today, this attractive and lightweight teak shower and bath bench features a teak wood seat. Teak is renowned for its durability and weathering properties, naturally taking on a handsome silver grey patina after months of exposure to water.

  3. Bath+Safe Adjustable Shower Seat - The Bath+Safe Adjustable Shower Seat assists in sitting or standing and makes personal hygiene easier while taking a shower. The Shower Seat features a built-in hand held shower spray holder in the seat.

  4. Invacare I-Fit Shower Chair With Back - The Invacare I-Fit Shower Chair with back provides comfort and support when bathing or showering. This new shower chair is the same as the old I-Fit except it now has an anti-bacterial agent in the plastic.

  5. The Entire Shower Chair Selection - Allegro Medical has an entire selection of Shower Chairs and Bath Benches from shower chairs with arms and backs to shower chairs made of plastic or wood. Some of our most popular bath benches are our folding shower chairs, our rolling shower chairs and our adjustable round shower stools. Whatever your need may be for a Shower Chair, Allegro Medical is sure to have the right one for you!

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Vacuum Erection Devices for Erectile Dysfunction

Guide to Impotence Devices

We have many products for men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence. Erectile Dysfunction is the inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It can also include erections becoming weaker or less rigid on a regular basis. ED is common with those suffering from hypertension, diabetes, prostate cancer and other health problems.

Non-invasive erection aids, such as vacuum devices powered by a pump or battery, can assist with ED and premature ejaculation issues. Regular use of an Encore Vacuum Erection Device may help open and clear penile arteries and possibly restore them to their natural elasticity, allowing more blood flow to the penis. This results in more rigid erections. Vacuum Devices are completely external. The vacuum action increases the blood flow to the penis resulting in a rigid erection. A soft comfortable ring is then placed at the base of the penis to hold the erection longer. Our erection aids include instruction manuals and even 800 number assistance lines to ensure proper use of the products. These systems have proven effective in 9 out of 10 impotent men, with no surgery, no side effects, and are often covered by Medicare and insurance companies.

Take a look, and see how erection aids can improve your sex life, and help bring intimacy back to your relationship.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Allegro Medical Sweepstakes - Win a Polar Heart Monitor

Win a Polar FS1 Heart Rate Monitor

With so much interest in our Thanksgiving sweepstakes, Allegro Medical has decided to do it again. We want to give back to the most important people in our business, and that's you, the buyers. You keep our economy going and it's just our way to say 'Thank You.' We are holding a sweepstakes drawing to win a Polar FS1 Heart Rate Monitor, a $59.95 value, absolutely free! Simply go to the homepage at www.AllegroMedical.com and fill out your name and email address on the right side of the page and that's it! It really is that easy. Be sure to hurry and drop by, the deadline to enter is December 19th. Click here for the contest rules
Polar Heart Rate Monitor - Model FS1