We embark on a fitness journey to be better versions of ourselves. We walk into a gym or weights room with the expectation of walking out a stronger, physically improved specimen. At times we are sidetracked by fatigue, injuries or conditions which prevent us from grinding out a workout.
It can be a simple cold, or perhaps a strained muscle on one end, to a life-threatening illness or a debilitating motor injury, such as a herniated disc on the other. Somewhere in between lies neuropathy, a nerve condition that can result in muscle weakness, lack of coordination, pain, numbness and a host of other unpleasant sensations that we most certainly wish to avoid. More than making us miss a workout; undiagnosed neuropathy can hinder us from performing simple daily tasks, adversely affecting our quality of life. It is with this in mind that Neurobion, launched an awareness campaign on neuropathy.
Neurobion has worked with partners to develop a so-called Sense Glove. Once worn by an individual, this glove—which resembles a robotic hand—mimics the frustrations of having neuropathy, providing wearers of the contraption an actual feel of what neuropathy may be like. By spreading awareness of this condition via the Sense Glove, people become more conscious about nerve health, enabling them to possibly combat neuropathy in its early stages.
While nerves can regenerate and repair themselves when needed, this has certain limitations. At one point, nerve damage can be irreversible, causing permanent effects. That is why it is of utmost importance to be mindful of the symptoms of neuropathy in order to take action early-on and prevent it from progressing. Among its symptoms are; a gradual onset of numbness, tingling sensation in the feet or hands that spreads to the arms and legs, sharp throbbing pain, muscle weakness, sensitivity to touch and lack of body coordination, among others.
The Sense Glove allows people to experience the frustration of those who have neuropathy as the glove provides tactile and force feedback, enabling users to feel and interact with objects in virtual reality. Through a series of events and activities being conducted by Neurobion, they aim to emphasize the importance of proper nerve care to stop the disease in its tracks.
“The activities are meant to familiarize people with the frustration of having undiagnosed neuropathy—particularly not being able to do simple everyday tasks like commuting, cooking, standing for extended periods and picking up objects,” said Ming Arroyo-Cunanan, head of marketing, P&G Health Care Philippines.
Certainly, getting a first-hand experience of what a condition may feel like is an innovative way to create awareness of a medical condition in order to prevent it from having a debilitating effect on our lives.
With that in mind, let us take care of our nervous system by exercising regularly, having a balanced diet that provides ample sources of vitamin B6, B12 and folate. Also, be mindful of the symptoms of neuropathy and see a medical professional once you feel any of them.