Recommended Read Featured Adaptive Equipment Educational Opportunities
We want to hear from YOU!
With this being the FIRST of many issues, we want to hear from you! Be on the lookout for ways to submit questions, provide input for future newsletter issues, and get connected with other clinicians nationwide!
Numotion Medical Supply Launches Bladder Bulletin
Welcome to the inaugural clinical issue of the Bladder Bulletin; the newsletter designed to provide research and expand knowledge on the multifaceted dynamics of bladder health and intermittent catheterization We’re excited to have you join this community, devoted to education, support, and advocacy
Managing bladder health is a crucial part of maintaining independence and quality of life That’s why we’re here to bring you expert insights, practical tips, and the latest advancements in urological care Whether you’re new to facilitating intermittent catheterization or looking for advancing your skills, we’re here to support you every step of the way. In each issue, you can expect:
Expert advice from healthcare professionals
Clinical research and education
Product highlights and innovations
Tips for travel, daily routines, lifestyle adjustments, and MORE!
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey If there’s a topic you’d love to see covered, feel free to reach out we’d love to hear from you! Your dedication to your patients’ independence, bladder health, and quality of life is invaluable
Here’s to improved bladder health and greater confidence!
Numotion offers a variety of CEUs for Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, ATPs, and more.
Scan the QR Codes to learn more, and to enroll in Numotion’s Medical Supply CEU offerings (available live and on-demand!) EducationalandCEUOpportunities
In 1752, Benjamin Franklin invented the first flexible catheter for his brother, James, who suffered from bladder stones Prior to his invention, rigid tubes had been used for catheterization; therefore, his flexible design, brought to life by a silversmith (photo below), was an ideal solution Once fabricated, “he promptly mailed it off to his brother with instructions and best wishes.”
According to Walter Isaacson’s Benjamin Franklin-An American Life, “The Tube was thin enough to be flexible, and Franklin included a wire that could be stuck inside to stiffen it while it was inserted and then be gradually withdrawn His catheter also had a screw component that allowed it to be inserted by turning ”
To quote Franklin, “Experience is necessary for the right using of all new tools or instruments, and that will perhaps suggest some improvements.”
Let’s celebrate Benjamin Franklin’s invention, and the MULTITUDE of improvements that have since been made to the flexible catheter!
Anapproachableguidetobeinga thoughtful,informedallytodisabled people,withactionablestepsfor whattosayanddo(andwhatnotto do)andhowyoucanhelpmakethe worldamoreaccessible,inclusive place
Osmolality: by definition, is a measurement of the concentration of dissolved particles in a fluid (urine)
Why does this matter??? Urine has low water content, meaning it has high osmolality Each individual person has a unique pH; each catheter has different chemical compounds in the lubricant The surface of the catheter should balance with the user’s pH to reduce friction, prevent urethral trauma, and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, epididymitis, and more
Depending on the person’s pH, the lubricant compounds may react differently, most commonly causing the catheter to become “sticky” prior to removal from the urethra This may make catheter removal more difficult, or result in urethral trauma, which can then lead to UTIs or other medical complications.
Osmolality is a critical factor for the ability of a hydrophilic catheter to retain water, maintaining a lubricious state Therefore, the osmolality of the catheter should balance equally with the individual’s urine pH in order to reduce micro-trauma in the urethra
If your patient reports a catheter “sticking” upon removal, or has frequent UTIs, consider changing to an alternative lubricant Contact your local Numotion Medical Supply Account Manager for samples, or if you have additional questions
FeaturedAdaptiveEquipment
This device can be used to simplify intermittent self catheterization (ISC) for those with male anatomy The washable foam material and unique design allow for those with dexterity issues to independently use this product. Upon inserting their fingers/thumbs into the holes, the penis stabilizer can be widened to cradle the penis, maintaining the optimal position for completion of ISC. Considering the individual will need to hold their clothing out of the way, hold their penis, and also hold the catheter and supplies, this product eliminates one step of ISC, making the process more efficient overall!
Penis Stabilizer
Recommended Watch
“CripCamp:ADisabilityRevolution”
Produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, “Crip Camp” tells the story about a summer camp for teens with disabilities Camp Jened was instrumental in the disability rights movement; because of Jened, alumni campers united to advocate for legislation changes for people with disabilities
In this genuinely captivating documentary, you will see early footage of disability rights advocate Judy Heumann, who was known for her leadership within the disabled community.
“Crip Camp” is available on Netflix, YouTube, and more ways to stream. Enjoy!
FDAApprovesthe ARC-EX
Developed by Onward Medical, the ARC-EX is “the first system approved for non-invasive spinal cord stimulation for people with spinal cord injury (SCI), (https://wwwonwdcom/therapy/arc-ex/)
This innovative electrical spinal cord stimulation is designed to improve hand strength and sensation in individuals with incomplete cervical spinal cord injuries. Named a TIME Magazine Best Invention of 2024, a study by Onward Medical in partnership with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation found “clinical trials have shown that participants regained critical abilities essential for daily independence”
65 participants engaged in this study across 14 internationally recognized rehabilitation centers. 90% of participants demonstrated improved hand strength or function, while 87% reported improved quality of life
This groundbreaking device will allow users to gain a bit more function, which could provide invaluable functional skills that allow a person to participate more in their daily occupations, roles, and so much more!
The ARC-EX is anticipated to be available in clinics nationwide by April 2025 To learn more about the ARC-EX device, clinical research and results, visit the Onward Medical, and Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation sites onwdcom christopherreeveorg
*WICKED*WheelchairUsers
With the recent release of WICKED, this author would be remiss to not bring awareness to the fact that not 1, but 2 actresses in wheelchairs were cast as Nessarose, Elphaba’s “tragically beautiful” younger sister. Marissa Bode is making history as the first authentic wheelchair user to be cast as Nessarose, a character who was unable to walk since birth. Cesily Collette Taylor plays young Nessa and delivers the cutest line in the movie: “Yeah!”.
*Take a peak at Cesily’s tights and shoes for a sweet spoiler...
CathTipofthe Month:
Wheelchair Configuration MATTERS!
The specifications of an individual’s wheelchair directly correlate to their success with independent intermittent self catheterization (ISC) It’s crucial to consider the dynamics of intermittent catheterization; this includes clothing management, positioning strategies, maintaining proper clean technique, bathroom access, and so much more!
According to the RESNA WC Service Provision Guide, “A close relationship exists between the wheelchair features/components and a client’s functional ability and safety while using the wheelchair The type of wheelchair and frame design, individual wheelchair options, seating and positioning components, and the overall configuration have a direct influence on a client’s independence, comfort, and safety in different environments and settings of anticipated use. ”
Power wheelchair functions such as tilt, in conjunction with recline and elevating leg-rests, assist with positioning for optimal anatomical access and clothing management, while seat elevation may assist with relieving caregiver burden
The dump (seat slope) and squeeze (back angle) of a manual wheelchair may impact that person’s ability to advance their hips forward during ISC; the center of gravity must be considered as numerous positional changes may be incorporated for independent ISC
The cushion will directly impact balance skills during ISC, as well as skin integrity; cushion maintenance must also be considered
The focal point for a successful bladder management strategy is the person. Having an understanding of their equipment, roles, routines, and lifestyle is the key to long-term functional outcomes.
