Whole Body Balance

Check out this article on allergies relief the natural way!

2011-05-19T11:10:00.000-07:00

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/relieve-allergies-natural-way

Cultivate Optimal Endocrine Health

2011-03-11T15:40:00.000-08:00

By: Georjana Shames LAc Dipl.OM CMT

The endocrine system provides regulation of the body through hormonal secretions. Cultivating your endocrine health combined with proper nutrition and diet can boost energy, improve appetite, reduce insomnia, relieve depression symptoms, improve circulation, relieve muscle aches and assist in recovering from endocrine disorders. One of the easiest ways to look after your endocrine system health is to eat nutritious meals and have a well balanced diet.

5 Endocrine Supporting Nutrients

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein are part of any healthy diet. To directly affect your endocrine system, make sure your diet includes these foods.

Fish - Fish provides your body with Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 oils. These oils are fats that directly affect cognitive function, cellular function and kidney function, all the things under the control of the endocrine system. Eating fish twice a week will aid in keeping a balanced endocrine system.

Garlic - Garlic boosts your immunity, increasing your ability to fight off infection. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels. One or two cloves of garlic a day is recommended. Include it in your cooking!

Calcium - Calcium keeps nerves healthy and ensures their ability to communicate effectively. Milk, cottage cheese, cheese, leafy greens, dried beans and yogurt are all rich in calcium.

Vitamin B and B Complex - Directly influences the nervous system's proper functioning and health and one's physical and mental performance concerning the nervous system. Found in chicken, fish, eggs, whole grains, beans and nuts.

Vitamin C - Adrenal glands have a very high content of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). This vitamin helps stimulate adrenal glands into producing more of the disease fighting hormone cortin. A continued stressful environment depletes vitamin C reserves and increases the tendency for infection and disease. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, melons, apricots, strawberries, berries, green vegetables, sweet peppers, and particularly tomatoes.

A few basic steps you can take:

Eat Slowly - Don't rush through your meals. Allow your body to properly digest food reduces after-meal fatigue, boosts your immune system, and enables your endocrine system to properly process nutritional intake.

Exercise - Regular exercise boosts the immune system, improves cardiovascular health, muscle mass, and prevents bone loss. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga, qigong, or tai chi can also be beneficial.

Manage Your Stress - Another important part of maintaining a healthy endocrine system is stress management. Having a lot of stress in your life can cause the overproduction of hormones that can lead to the failure or malfunction of many endocrine organs. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine offers many tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check and allow you to enjoy a more peaceful life.

Rest - Take a day out of the week for rest and rejuvenation allowing your mind and body recovery time. You will be more productive the rest of the week.

Sleep - Allow six to eight hours of sleep per night in order to reduce stress and keep hormones balanced. The combination of stress and a lack of sleep may cause some of the glands to malfunction. If you are experiencing difficulties sleeping acupuncture has shown great success treating a wide array of sleep problems without any of the side effects of prescription or over-the-counter sleep aids.

Massage Taixi When Fatigued

The root of the body's energy in Oriental medicine is the Kidney meridian. Treatment used to strengthen the Kidney Meridian also restores nourishment to your endocrine glands. Taixi, or Kidney 3, is the source point of the Kidney meridian and an excellent point to massage yourself whenever feeling fatigued. To locate Taixi first locate the medial malleolus, that bone on the inner ankle. Then, locate the Achilles tendon that runs down the back of the ankle. Directly between them you will find the tender area when you press or Taixi. Massage the area on your ankle between the bone of inner malleolus and the Achilles tendon.

Would you like to learn more about how acupuncture can help you? Find an acupuncturist near you for a consultation. A custom-tailored treatment plan will be created to suit your individual needs so that you can feel better quickly and safely!

Read more: Cultivate Optimal Endocrine Health http://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/Cultivate+Optimal+Endocrine+Health#ixzz1GKzEouoR

Benefits of Massage

2011-02-25T14:10:00.000-08:00

Good Medicine
By Editorial Staff

Originally published in Body Sense magazine, Fall 2001.
Copyright 2001. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.

As you lie on the table under crisp, fresh sheets, hushed music draws you into the moment. The smell of sage fills the air and you hear the gentle sound of massage oil being warmed in your therapist's hands. The pains of age, the throbbing from your overstressed muscles, the sheer need to be touched -- all cry out for therapeutic hands to start their work. Once the session gets underway, the problems of the world fade into an oblivious 60 minutes of relief and all you can comprehend right now is not wanting it to end.

But what if that hour of massage did more for you than just take the pressures of the day away? What if that gentle, Swedish massage helped you combat cancer? What if bodywork helped you recover from a strained hamstring in half the time? What if your sleep, digestion and mood all improved with massage and bodywork? What if these weren't just "what ifs"?

Evidence is showing that the more massage you can allow yourself, the better you'll feel. Here's why.

Massage as a healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, and for conveying compassion and support. Think of the last time you bumped your head or had a sore calf. What did you do? Rubbed it, right? The same was true of our earliest ancestors. Healers throughout time and throughout the world have instinctually and independently developed a wide range of therapeutic techniques using touch. Many are still in use today, and with good reason. We now have scientific proof of the benefits of massage - benefits ranging from treating chronic diseases and injuries to alleviating the growing tensions of our modern lifestyles. Having a massage does more than just relax your body and mind - there are specific physiological and psychological changes which occur, even more so when massage is utilized as a preventative, frequent therapy and not simply mere luxury. Massage not only feels good, but it can cure what ails you.

The Consequences of Stress
Experts estimate that 80 percent to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. Massage and bodywork is there to combat that frightening number by helping us remember what it means to relax. The physical changes massage brings to your body can have a positive effect in many areas of your life. Besides increasing relaxation and decreasing anxiety, massage lowers your blood pressure, increases circulation, improves recovery from injury, helps you to sleep better and can increase your concentration. It reduces fatigue and gives you more energy to handle stressful situations.

Massage is a perfect elixir for good health, but it can also provide an integration of body and mind. By producing a meditative state or heightened awareness of living in the present moment, massage can provide emotional and spiritual balance, bringing with it true relaxation and peace.

The incredible benefits of massage are doubly powerful if taken in regular "doses." Dr. Maria Hernandez-Reif, from the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami, is known for her massage research, along with colleague Tiffany Field. Together, they and other researchers have done outstanding work proving the value of massage. While their studies have shown we can benefit from massage even in small doses (15 minutes of chair massage or a half-hour table session), Hernandez-Reif says they know from their research that receiving bodywork 2-3 times a week is highly beneficial. And if we lived in a fantasy world, Hernandez-Reif has the answer. "I feel a daily massage is optimal."

It's undoubtedly a wonderful thing when your therapist begins unwinding those stress-tightened muscles, and your day's troubles begin to fade away. But it's the cherry on top to know this "medicine" only gets better with frequency.

What You Already Know: The Benefits of Massage
In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/or bodywork treatments?

- Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.

- Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body's natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer.

- Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body's largest organ - the skin.

- Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles

- Reduces spasms and cramping

- Increases joint flexibility.

- Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.

- Releases endorphins - the body's natural painkiller - and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.

- Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred.

- Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain.

- Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication.

- Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.

- Assists with shorter labor for expectant mothers, as well as less need for medication, less depression and anxiety, and shorter hospital stays.

Other Body Therapies
Alexander Technique - A movement re-education therapy that was created by a mid-19th century actor who tried to understand his own movement dysfunctions on stage. The emphasis is on observing and modifying improper movement patterns, thereby reducing physical stress on the body.

Craniosacral Therapy - A gentle method of manipulating the body's craniosacral system (consisting of thin membranes and cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord) in an attempt to improve the function of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress and enhance health and resistance to disease.

Reiki - A therapy based on universal life energy that serves to align chakras and bring healing energy to organs and glands. Utilizes visualization as practitioner acts as a channel for the life energy.

Rolfing - Used to reorder the major body segments, this technique utilizes physical manipulation and movement awareness to bring the body into vertical alignment. Treatments are offered in a 10-session series.

Shiatsu - A deep, finger-pressure technique using the traditional acupuncture points of Asian healing. Works to unblock energy flows and restore balance to meridians and organs.

The Need for Touch
As a society, we are touch deprived and this can lead to disease or emotional dysfunction. From the cradle to the nursing home, tactile stimulation and the emotional assurance of caring touch bring about a sense of well-being and security. In numerous studies conducted on massage for infants, TRI researchers have found improved weight gain and development in pre-term infants, improved weight gain and motor behavior in cocaine-exposed infants, and improved weight gain and decreased stress behavior in HIV-exposed infants. Full-term infants also benefit with increased alertness and social behavior, less crying and increased weight gain.

Herbs for Athletes

2011-02-04T16:18:00.000-08:00

Written by:Eric Brand
Published on January 24th, 2011 @ 11:58:00 am
Posted in Eric Brand's Blog

Last weekend the internet was abuzz with articles about NFL players using velvet antler (Lu Rong) to enhance athletic performance. Apparently the antler contains naturally-occurring IGF-1, a performance-enhancing substance that is banned unless it comes from a natural source like deer antler. It appears to be difficult to detect and contentious to ban, and the head coach of the Oakland Raiders has been linked to a company that ships it to players.
...
As with many substances that have been studied for athletic performance, scientific studies on velvet antler are contradictory. A variety of Chinese herbs are famous for their ability to improve athletic performance, and despite mixed results in various clinical trials, the demand for herbs that provide athletic enhancement is enormous. A free full-text review article at this link covers an overview of a variety of substances, many of which are found in Chinese medicine. Of particular interest is rhodiola (Hong Jing Tian), cordyceps (Dong Chong Xia Cao), eleuthero (Ci Wu Jia), and of course, the most famous and well-studied herb for athletic performance, ginseng (Ren Shen). The link has a particularly interesting chart that assesses a wide range of studies on ginseng in the context of athletic performance. Another full-text article on cordyceps and its ability to counter fatigue can be found here.

Many of the herbal products used for athletic performance have systemic benefits to the body, and many are called adaptogens because they tend to enhance performance across a wide range of test parameters. Each tends to have its own claim to fame; for example, rhodiola is prized for altitude sickness and cordyceps is prized for its effects on the immune system. Recently, we began to expand the range of herbal products offered at Blue Poppy with the addition of the People’s Herbs Empowered Extract line. A number of the products from the Empowered line fit the bill for athletic enhancement, including the Five Ginsengs Formula, Boost Essence, Five Mushroom Formula, and Empowered Eleuthero. Additionally, the Blue Poppy Originals formula Immortal Qi is very popular with athletes, and combines rhodiola and cordyceps in a base formula similar to a combination of Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang and Sheng Mai San. Try it when you need that extra boost!

**article found by Amy Dickinson, Lc. A

Stay Healthy This Season

2009-09-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

Doctors in Ancient China were paid only as long as their patients were healthy. As soon as the patient fell ill, payment to their doctors stopped. Chinese medicine still has a tremendous emphasis on the preventative aspect of medicine.

Flu season is burgeoning. With the recent swine flu epidemic, it is now, more than ever, important to know how to take care of ourselves and keep ourselves healthy. We all know that exercise, fresh air, and whole foods are key factors in supporting our immune system, but did you know that Chinese Medicine can also be a tool in the fight against colds and flu? Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can be a valuable resource in the prevention of colds and flu and can also help us recover from them quickly.

Prevention
It has been determined that acupuncture is effective in boosting the immune system. It is possible to use acupuncture to prevent colds and flu from happening altogether or to prevent them from becoming full-blown infections. If you're feeling relatively healthy, it is advisable to come for acupuncture once a month during cold and flu season to strengthen your immune system. If you are prone to infections, you may want to come in 2 or 3 times a month to keep yourself from getting sick. When people around you are getting sick, while you are receiving acupuncture, your body is better able to fight off illnesses and remain healthy.

Treatment
If you do happen to catch a cold or the flu, acupuncture and Chinese herbs can help lessen the severity and hasten you recovery. A visit to the acupuncturist at the first signs of a cold or flu can repair immunity and fight symptoms so your body can fight an infections.

Preventing Kidney stones

2009-09-01T14:24:00.001-07:00

from Medscape

The dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet may help protect against kidney stones according to the results of a prospective study reported online August 13 in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.

"Despite previously observed associations between individual dietary factors and kidney stone risk, relatively few studies have examined the impact of overall diet or dietary patterns on risk," write Eric N Taylor, M.D., from Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, and colleagues.

"The DASH diet, which is high in fruits and vegetables, moderate in low-fat dairy products, and low in animal protein represents a novel potential means of kidney stone prevention. The consumption of fruits and vegetables increase urinary citrate, an important inhibitor of calcium stone formation, and a diet with normal to high calcuim content but low in animal protein and sodium decreases the risk of oxalate stone recurrence by 51%," the researchers state.

Back to School And Pain Free--Pack your Backpack Right!

2009-08-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

(Article from Backpack Safety America)

Are you sending your child off to the first day of school with a brand new backpack slung over his or her shoulder? If you're like most parents, a new backpack was on your child's back to school shopping list. Although these bags have become as common as pencils and chalkboards in schools across America, according to chiropractors, you may want to think twice before putting you youngster on the bus with this school yard staple. New research reveals an alarming danger associated with childhood backpack use.

This research stems from the increasing number of reports of childhood back pain in recent decades. By the end of their teens, more than 50% of youths experience at least one low back pain episode (Spine 1998; 23;228-34). And new research indicates that this increase may be due, in part, to the improper use of backpacks. But you don't need to be a scientist to understand the effects of backpacks on young spines; watch children in any school yard struggle to walk while bent sideways under the weight of an overloaded backpack on one shoulder and you'll quickly realize the potential danger of this commonplace item.

But your child doesn't have to be the only "un-cool" kid without a backpack. Read on to learn how your youngster can carry a backpack and keep his or her back pain and injury free!

Backpacks Attack on Backs

How exactly does carrying a backpack affect the spine? "Common sense tells us that a heavy load, distributed improperly or unevenly day after day is indeed going to cause stress to a a growing spinal column," explains Dr Marvin T Arnsdorff, chiropractor and co-founder of the Backpack Safety America school education program. "The old adage 'as twigs bent so grows the tree' comes to mind. We are seeing a growing concern about the improper use of backpacks and the relatively scare amount of educational and preventive information available to young people."

The Consumer Product Safety Comminsion estimates that 4, 928 emergency foom visists each year result from injuries related to book bags and back carriers. Schlepping around a backpack can cause not only acute injury, but also long term damage.

Five Steps to Preventing backpack Related Injuries

Ensure that your child's backpack is sturdy and appropriately sized. Some manufacturers offer special child sized versions for children ages 5-10. these packs wiegh less than a pound and have shorter back lengths and widths to prevent slippage.
Consider more than looks when choosing a backpack. An illfitting pack can cause back pain, muscle strain, or nerve impingment. To help distribure the load, look for packs with padded shoulder straps and waist straps.
Ensure that the weight of your child's pack does not exceed 15% of his or her body weight. Avoid overloading by prioritizing the items you child carries and eliminating unnecessary contents.
Teach you child to pack his or her backpack by evenly distributing the contents throughout the pack

Insist that your child never carry a backpack over one shoulder. Both shoulder straps--as well as the waist strap--should be used at all times.

Hauling a heavy backpack over one shoulder every day may provoke serious postural misalignments. Postural imbalances ofter trigger a condition called vertebral subluxation. Vertebral subluxations are dysfunctinal areas in the spine where moement is restricted or bones (vertebrai) are out of alignment. This disorder predisposes patients to a myriad of aliments such as neck and back pain, headaches, and osteoarthritis.

A Cure for the Back Pain Blues

Fortunately, there is a solution to this childhood health care condition: chiropractic care. Chiropractors are experts in spinal biomechanics and backpack safety techniques. As prevention specialists, chiropractors work to educate the community about the proper use of backpacks. in addition, doctors of chiropractic offer spinal checkups for youngsters. These checkups include a thorough postural assessment, evaluation for vertebral subluxations, and specific recommendations for injury prevention. If you're a parent, don't ignore this potential threat to your child's health. Schedule a chiropractic evaluation for your youngster today.

The Benefits of Prenatal Massage

2009-08-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

The Beneficial Effects of Pregnancy Massage

by Kate Jordan, HHP, NCTMB, CSCS

This article first appeared in the August 2007 issues of "Massage Magazine."

Pregnancy is trendy. From expectant celebrities on the covers of People and Vogue to national television features on the do's and don'ts of the pregnant state, the experience of pregnancy has come out of the closet – literally. Women are anxious to learn what's best for their bodies and their babies as they move through the 280 days of pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period.

Pregnancy massage and massage for labor and postpartum recuperation is the newest option for women who want an optimum pregnancy outcome. As more therapists are trained to provide pregnancy-specific massage therapy, many women are being exposed to its potential and enjoying its benefits.

The profound physiologic changes produced by pregnancy necessitate bodywork approaches that both enhance well-being and can address specific dysfunctions that accompany this state. Medical research has begun to show the importance of autonomic nervous system dysregulation on pregnancy outcomes. It is especially in this area that massage can have a profound benefit on pregnancy outcomes.

Six months pregnant, Marcy arrived at my office for her first pregnancy massage appointment in a state of high anxiety. She'd learned the previous week that her placenta was attached low in the wall of her uterus. Marcy's first baby had arrived prematurely; she worried that if her obstetrician put her on bedrest, she'd be unable to care for her son, Justin, or continue working part-time as an attorney. As she settled on the table for a session of side-lying pregnancy massage, I had two therapeutic intentions. I could educate Marcy about the likelihood that her low-lying placenta would move upward as her uterus expanded, and not endanger her pregnancy. I could also apply soothing and appropriate skin stimulation that would inhibit the outpouring of stress hormones that her anxiety was producing.

When women experience stress in pregnancy, blood levels of the neurotransmitters cortisol, adrenaline and norepinephrine surge. Conversely, levels of dopamine and serotonin are suppressed by stress; low levels of these hormones are associated with mood states like anger and anxiety. Not only would Marcy's continued anxiety fuel more anxiety, it would lead to increased levels of these stress hormones in her body. Recent studies have shown extensive effects on the growing fetus of stress experienced by pregnant mothers. Not only do infants of stressed moms show higher levels of cortisol and lower levels of serotonin and dopamine, they seem to cry and fuss more as babies, and perform less well on such measures of infant development as the Brazelton scale.

Doctors in New York City studied expectant mothers who were in the area of the World Trade Center when it was struck on September 11, 2001. They found that their infants had smaller head circumferences and were more likely to suffer post-traumatic stress disorder.

Pregnancy massage delivered with a nurturing touch can lower circulating levels of cortisol and norepinephrine, increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, and measurably affect a pregnant woman's anxiety and depression Tiffany Field has reported that the decrease in stress hormone production after massage lasts as long as two weeks. Thus two-week intervals are a good baseline for pregnancy massage sessions. . Pregnancy massage also lower blood pressure; since elevated blood pressure is a marker of potential complications in pregnancy, this intervention can provide substantial benefit for women who are at risk.

With the enormous demands placed on the circulatory system during pregnancy - blood volume may increase up to 60% over pre-pregnancy levels - massage is useful in supporting the return of blood to the heart and increasing blood flow to the uterus and placenta. In animal studies, skin stimulation of the abdomen, leading to enhanced circulation, has been shown to promote normal placental development. As pregnancy progresses and the uterus enlarges and presses deep into the pelvic bowl, venous return to the heart is hampered. Gentle lymphatic drainage in the third trimester relieves symptoms of edema, and heaviness in the legs and feet.

Feelings of ambivalence about her pregnant state, fears for her baby's well-being, and fear of labor are common in pregnant women. Massage therapists will likely spend more time with their pregnant clients than their obstetricians, midwives. The educated therapist has a significant opportunity to provide skilled therapeutic touch, reassurance and education to her pregnant client.

Anna Lisa came to my office for massage in her 4th month of pregnancy. Her pregnancy was troubled; she was estranged from her baby's father, and unbeknownst to her employers, she was attempting to continue her career as a model. Her pregnancy was complicated by body image issues that had led to her bulimia as a teenager. During her pregnancy massage sessions, my therapeutic goal was to nurture this emerging mother, as well as her baby, by reassuring her about her appearance and offering encouragement for her to touch and welcome her enlarging belly.

Reva Rubin, a nursing professor at the University of Pittsburgh's nursing school was able to show that mothers who received what she called “appropriate, meaningful touch” - back stroking delivered by office nurses during prenatal visits - were later able to touch their own babies in a “meaningful, effective and caring” way. Other research has shown that the more touch mothers receive in pregnancy, the more likely they are to stroke, smile, and talk to their infants, and thus to bond with them.

With more mothers with children under of the age of three in the workforce, infants and young children are often cared for in group settings where there is infrequent touching by caretakers. Child carriers have replaced arms and laps as holders for many babies and young children. Pregnant women who have received massage are far more likely to later massage their babies.

Experiencing regular massage during pregnancy can improve pregnancy outcomes in other significant ways. Tiffany Field found that women who received pregnancy massage had fewer premature births. In 2006, more than 470,000 women in the U.S. delivered their babies before term (37 weeks or less), putting the infants at greater risk for neurological, developmental and other deficits.

As more women undergo fertility treatments, the number of multiple births has risen in the U.S. Mothers of twins are seven times more likely to deliver prematurely; mothers of triplets or more infants are 20 times more likely. Regular pregnancy massage supports a woman in carrying multiples closer to term. Kate Bateman, who practices at Kadlec Medical Center in Richland, Washington, recently worked with a woman pregnant with triplets who was hospitalized for a month. She described her 15-30 minute massage from Kate as “the highlight of my day.”

Between 4 -10% of pregnancies are considered high-risk, because of maternal circumstance (e.g. over age 40, history of miscarriage), a chronic condition the mother suffers (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis), or complications like high blood pressure that may have developed during the pregnancy. Women in high-risk pregnancies often benefit the most from pregnancy massage. Ning immigrated from China as a teenager. I had seen Ning four years previously for massage during an uneventful pregnancy. This time, her baby had a serious heart defect, and she was naturally very concerned for the baby's health. Her high-risk specialist readily approved of pregnancy massage as an adjunctive treatment. Ning received weekly massage for the last 12 weeks of her pregnancy, delivering a baby who appeared so healthy that the neonatal nurse thought it must be her older sister who had the heart defect.

I strongly recommend that practitioners providing massage therapy to clients in high-risk pregnancies request medical releases from the individual's pregnancy care provider. Not only do release forms acknowledge a therapist's scope of practice, they can allay the fears of a pregnant woman or her family members on the appropriateness or safety of massage for a high-risk pregnancy.

Bedrest is often used as a strategy to prevent or postpone pre-term labor, and to treat other complications of pregnancy. Laurie Aronovici is a labor and delivery nurse at Henrico Doctors Hospital in Virginia. She provides massage therapy for patients who have been admitted to the antepartum floor of the hospital on bedrest for a variety of pregnancy-related issues. The hospital provides information about her services in packets provided to these patients. Some travel to her office by wheelchair; those on strict bedrest receive massage in their hospital beds. Bedrest leads to reduced cardiac output and stroke volume, which decreases the ability of the cardiovascular system to return blood to the heart. This effect can be even more pronounced in pregnant women because of the increased thoracic pressure from the enlarging uterus. Gentle Swedish massage and lymphatic drainage techniques can aid venous return to the heart, and enhance blood flow to the placenta of a woman on bedrest.

Women placed on bedrest, whether at home or in the hospital, also show higher levels of anxiety, depression, and complaints than matched controls not placed on bedrest. Massage therapy is useful in reducing stress and relieving the musculoskeletal dysfunctions that result from prolonged bedrest. In the hospital setting, massage services are often provided in the hospital bed, with allowances made for positioning restrictions dictated by the patient's doctor. Massage applications can range from “just the feet,” to relaxation/comfort massage, to application of specialized techniques like Strain CounterStrain.

Holly Boyle provides antenatal massage at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Maryland. Patients who are on bedrest, or who demonstrate anxiety or the presence of emotional issues, receive doctors’ orders for twice-weekly massage. Holly has seen consistent reductions in pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), anxiety and musculoskeletal pain, and increased circulation with reduced edema in her hospitalized patients.

Many pregnant women are aware of the existence of doulas, or specially trained birth attendants. They may not know that there are massage therapists trained as both labor assistants and touch therapists, who can provide sophisticated and skilled touch support and intervention during labor. Labor massage is useful to women having unmedicated or medicated births. Labor progress is significantly impacted by a mother's psychological state. The uterine muscles contract in a non-productive way when a woman is in a state of high sympathetic arousal, which can be caused by fear, anxiety, or severe pain. Psycho-social factors condition each individual woman's experience of her labor; an experienced therapist can work with a laboring woman and empower her to cope with the intense stimulus of labor. This work includes focused touch and specific techniques which reduce pain perception and stimulate productive labor contractions.

Deborah Strauhal, a pregnancy massage therapist in private practice in San Diego, has worked as a volunteer doula at the University of California San Diego Medical Center. She has found that younger women are more vulnerable and less prepared for the emotional roller coaster of labor, and that skilled touch and reassurance can ease their way in the often alien to them environment of the hospital birth setting. Sometimes massage therapists providing labor support do even more. Mary Beth Hastings of Takoma Park, Maryland recently provided pregnancy massage for a client throughout her pregnancy, and contracted to provide labor massage at her birth in a freestanding birth center staffed by nurse-midwives. The client's labor progressed more quickly with her support than the midwives expected. As the mother felt her baby moving down the birth canal and no midwives were available, Mary Beth helped move the baby out of her mother's body and into the world.

After a baby is born, postpartum massage therapy can alleviate the musculoskeletal complaints of new mothers and provide emotional support and nurturance during their critical life transition. At Holly Boyle's hospital, postpartum women are seen within eight hours of a vaginal birth, and 24 hours after a C-section or other complication of delivery. Patients receive one 20-minute postpartum massage session. Normally this session is not done using lubrication unless the patient requests her own cream or oil. Except for compression stockings and socks, clothing is not removed, and then only if the patient has already been active and the attending RN notified. Postpartum massage in the hospital setting provides relief of low back or pelvic pain, relief of the pain of spinal headache caused by epidural anesthesia, relief of reflex shoulder pain after C-section, and general relaxation and sleep promotion. Holly has found that the presence of the massage therapist can be a tactful way for the new family to usher out family and friends who have stayed too long!

Later, in the therapist's office, postpartum massage can address the musculoskeletal discomfort induced by long hours of baby feeding and baby care, as well as residual dysfunction that may have developed during pregnancy or labor. Postpartum women need help in reorienting their bodies to post-pregnancy structure: otherwise, they tend to maintain anterior positioning of the shoulders and pelvic girdle, leading to neck, upper back, and low back pain later in life. The skin and superficial fascia of the abdomen can be treated immediately after birth to minimize the distortion of connective tissue layers that so often follows pregnancy.

Pregnancy massage is now being offered throughout the United States in a wide variety of settings. Individual practitioners like Gina Buonpane, who owns Every Mother Massage in Oakland, California, specialize in working with pregnant women and their partners through all phases of the childbearing experience, including classes for expectant fathers to prepare for labor. Other practitioners work in obstetricians’ offices. Laurie Aronovici was sent by a large OB-GYN practice to learn pregnancy massage after one of the doctors did an informal survey of 300 of their maternity patients. They all ranked pregnancy massage as the number one addition they would like to see in their doctors’ practice. Some massage therapists work in fertility clinics where massage therapy has been seen as useful in relieving the high levels of anxiety experienced by women and their partners undergoing fertility treatment. Many U.S. hospitals now offer massage therapy as part of complementary care; therapists work standard shifts, usually seeing patients in one-hour blocks in treatment rooms, and in 15- to 30- minute blocks in hospital rooms. Some hospitals also employ massage therapists to provide labor support on an as-needed basis under the direction of attending labor and delivery nurses.

In Madison, Wisconsin, Lisa Shepherd works with an acupuncturist who specializes in pregnancy and fertility issues. She sees most of the acupuncturist's patients in conjunction with hers, as does Meredith Gade who works with a chiropractor in Virginia who specializes in women's issues. Physical therapy clinics specializing in women's health also employ massage therapists.

One of the most rapidly-expanding settings for pregnancy massage is the spa. Day spas, hotel spas and destination spas are beginning to offer pregnancy massage to guests. As with other spa services, this may be a setting in which therapists are not adequately trained to provide a safe and appropriate pregnancy massage.

Medical Massage for Pregnancy

As women move through their pregnancies, they often develop musculoskeletal dysfunction that is unique to the pregnant state. Common pregnancy-specific dysfunctions include cervical myospasm, especially of the scalenes and sub-occipitals; upper back pain from the levator scapula and trapezius muscles and upper ribs; intercostal neuralgia, quadratus lumborum and piriformis strain; lumbo-sacral, sacroiliac and pubis symphysis dysfunction; and adductor strain.

Medical massage using myofascial release, muscle energy technique, Strain CounterStrain, assisted-resisted stretching, acupressure and other reflex techniques can target and alleviate these sometimes disabling conditions of pregnancy.

Karen came to me late in her fifth month of pregnancy. She was limping badly. I had seen her five years previously as a patient during her first pregnancy. She was an engineer, and didn't really “need” massage at any other time in her life. At 39, Karen was pregnant with twins; she had already gained 45 pounds and was experiencing severe right hip pain which made it impossible for her to sleep and difficult for her to walk. Using a combination of techniques, we were able to relieve Karen's condition in three weekly sessions. I encouraged her to use a specialized hip pillow for the remainder of her pregnancy, so she could remain comfortable.

Medical massage is also extremely useful in the postpartum setting. Unlike the Scandinavian countries, for example, there is no provision for “after care” of postpartum women in America. A fellow long- distance cyclist referred Kristin to me. An athletic trainer, Kristin had been comfortable cycling and racing until after the birth of her second child. For the next two years, she experienced severe pain in her right hip that prevented her from biking more than five miles without pain. We found the source of her pain in her psoas muscle. After two treatments, she has recovered enough to resume intense training.

Because of the profound effects of massage on major body systems - the autonomic nervous system, the circulatory system, the musculoskeletal system - any pregnancy massage done with appropriate positioning, observing contraindications for technique and location, will have significant benefits for the pregnant woman, the outcome of her pregnancy and her future family.

For more information on Prenatal Massage or to schedule a massage, visit our website.

Rolfing Debuts in the NFL

2009-08-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

For more information on Rolfing in Boulder, please visit our website

Latest in Anti-Aging: EAT LESS!!!

2009-07-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

Live Longer by Cutting Calories

Still searching for the fountain of youth? You may want to focus on portion control instead. Eliminating just 300 calories a day slows signs of aging and could be the key to living longer, reports a new study published in Rejuvenation Research. An internal clock tells the body’s cells when to naturally fizzle out, show age, and eventually send us six feet under. But researchers at Harvard University found two genes in our cells that act as gatekeepers for our longevity: When these genes experience certain kinds of stress—such as calorie restriction—they ramp up their activity and actually stop cellular aging. Another reason to pass on that second helping!

—Nicole Duncan@ Natural solutions

More Comfortable on Long-Distance Drives--Try a Lumbar Machine

2009-07-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

thanks to Massage Magazine June 2006

Use of a Lumbar Massage Unit while driving reduces muscle fatigue, so researchers say.

Researchers at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, evaluated the effects of three different lumbar massage systems on low-back pain caused by prolonged periods of time spent driving an automobile. "The effects of Lumbar Massage on Muscle Fatigue, Muscle Oxygenation, Low Back Discomfort, and Driver Performance during Prolonged Driving" tested roller, mechanical,a nd pneumatic massage devices.

According to the authors, low-back pain is common in occupations requiring prolonged driving. This study measured lumbar and thoracic erector spinae muscle fatigue, oxygenation, blood flow and driver discomfort and performance during a one-hour driving task in which the massage devices were used. Eight volunteers (4 men and 4 women) performed eight testing sessions each, in which they drove in a simulator around an oval course using a car seat with one of the three massage devices or a car seat without a massage device. Each type of car seat was used twice by each subject.

The roller massage unit moved horizontal metal rods in a vertical direction along the lumbar region of the seat and could be felt by the seat occupant. The mechanical unit consisted of a flexible support that curved toward the lumbar region cyclically with a random sloping distance. The pneumatic device inflated or deflated tow bladders, one that provided dynamic support. To measure the effects, the researchers used electromyography (EMG), near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), a thermometer, and subject-reported ratings of perceived discomfort (RPD).

The results indicate beneficial effects from all three massage units as shown by the temperature measures, NIRS adn RPD, although many of the EMG findings were not statisically significant. Other differences between the massage devices were statisitically insignificant. the authors note that increases in skin temperature suggest that massage has the potential to prevent or decrease erector spinai muscle fatigue. they also note that prolonged driving may cause static loading of passive lumbar spine structures and the massage devices may prenent this loading.

In conclusion, the authors state, "These mechanical devices appear to contribute to reduced discomfort levels, increases in muscle oxygenation and blood flow and the prevention of muscle fatigue during prolonged sitting with no negative impact of driver performance."

High Blood Pressure??? Try Swedish Massage

2009-07-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

thanks to Massage Magazine's April issue

Sixteen healthy males were given massage treatment at the Karolinski Hospital, Stockholm, Sweeden. The participants were randomized to receive massage either on back, neck and chest (BNC) or on leg, arm, and face (LAF). The 12-week treatment was divided into three four-week periods, two consisting of massage treatment on either BNF or LAF, and one consisting of no treatment in between the other two periods. Blood pressure was measured after a five-minute rest period before and after each massage session.

During the two massage-treatment periods, participants received two 30-minute massages each week. At the beginning of each session, they lay face-down and later changed position to lie on their backs. The BNC group received massage on their backs for 17 minutes, chest for 7 minutes, and neck for 6 minutes. Massage was given to the LAF group on legs and feet for 17 minutes, arm and hands for 4 1/2 minutes, and face for 4 minutes. Classical music and massage lotion were used in all massage sessions.

During the period when no massage was administered, the participants were asked not to participate in any similar treatment, but to continue normal daily activities.

Systolic blood pressure decreased directly after each massage session in the first treatment period, but no significant changes were seen in diastolic blood pressure. In the second treatment period, BNC massage decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, whereas LAF massage increased systolic blood pressure. (Systolic and diastolic refer to the contraction phase and the relaxation phase of the heart, respectively.)

The authors state that the decrease in blood pressure after massage on the BNC may have been due to sympathetic inhibition and that BNC massage would be more likely to affect the parasympathetic nervous system. They conclude that "It may be suggested that massage may be tried as a complementary therapy in patients suffering from increased blood pressure due to stress."

Can Vitamin Bs help you Deal with Stress???

2009-07-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Originally published at isnare.com

A total 41% of American workers interviewed reported an increase in work stress on their jobs compared to a year earlier. Another poll taken among Americans showed that more than one half of the respondents (58%) reported having experienced insomnia at least a few nights a week. This is a trend in American health, where we are seeing many common psychological problems such as stress and insomnia moving to an epidemic stage (epidemic means 1 in 4 have the ailment).

Why have these psychological problems reached epidemic numbers? There are many reasons for stress, insomnia, restlessness and anxiety, such as significant personal events, like losing a job, marital problems, money worries and generally worrying. Other causes can include physical illness that causes pain, depression, shift work, caffeine or alcohol consumption, and medication side-effects. Each one is a drain on your nutritional support system, this is a scientific fact.

The drain on your nutritional support system is the common thread here which runs through all of these problems. What do I mean when I say drain on your nutritional support system? I mean that each one of those problems burns up large amounts of your B vitamins and minerals. Those B vitamins and minerals are your nutritional support and if they get low the problems you are experiencing will seem to grow in number and severity.

That nutritional support system is the foundation from which you handle everyday problems. When that foundation is supporting you; you feel more confident and you handle your everyday troubles and crises with ease and consideration. If you are not supported, you may handle the problem, but you feel the physical and emotional drain on your body and mind. Then where is the next problem/crises coming from; this is the modern world with plenty of them to spare, you need support.

Are you experiencing some of the symptoms of a drained nutritional support system, stress, anxiety, insomnia or restlessness? Well do not expect your body to run trouble free without replacing the nutrition in that system. Not replenishing that system is like expecting your car to run without oil. Look below at the different B vitamins and see the symptoms you can acquire due to their deficiencies, all scientifically proven.

Why can’t we just get our vitamins from our diet? You just have to look around you to see the evidence that the majority of Americans have no idea what a good diet. At every turn in our society we are, in fact, encouraged to eat foods that have almost no nutritional value by the media. Most markets do not offer us much of a choice. The food is refined, irradiated or poorly grown at the farm; all three destroying the nutritional value of the food. The very people who are supposed to protect our health instead defend the manufacturer and spin the information so much they are confusing. They even make laws to stop anyone from saying that to eat certain whole foods might prevent or cure you of many diseases, even though it is true.

I have been involved with naturopathic medicine and nutrition for over 20 years and I find it difficult to find whole foods that are truly nutritional in any market or restaurant. The odds are stacked against you having any better luck than I do. So I supplement to make sure that I keep a balance of B vitamins and minerals beyond what I eat and I suggest you do the same thing. Why allow yourself and your family to be caught up in the same health crisis you see everywhere today.

Important Note: Basic law of nature and another scientific fact (see article, “The Truth About Vitamins”), if your B Stress formula is not from food you cannot absorb it! It is a big basic law of nature; we depend on plants for our nutrition. If your vitamin supplement does not say the words somewhere on the label “Whole Food Vitamins”, “Made From Whole Foods” or “Food Vitamins”. Do not waste your money on it because it is synthetic and you cannot absorb it.

Below Is What Your Stress B Vitamin Supplement Should Contain In A Whole Food Form. Plus, The Problems A Deficiency Of Each Vitamin And Mineral Can Cause.

Vitamin A
Essential, either directly or indirectly, for the proper functioning of most organs of the body” and may prevent stress-induced immunological disorders.

Vitamin C
If, you are not getting enough vitamin C you may be tired, you may bruise easily, and you may just feel generally ill.

Thiamin B-1
Thiamin supplements have been shown to improve mood and mental function and to relieve stress and muscle tension.

Riboflavin B-2
People today have an increased need for Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin) in stressful situations and it is the most common of vitamin deficiencies. Highly beneficial, for anxiety, stress, and fatigue.

Niacinamide B-3 (called the happy vitamin)
A, deficiency of this vitamin can cause depression. Left untreated, it can lead to psychosis and dementia. Symptoms of a deficiency include agitation, anxiety, and mental lethargy.

Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) levels are typically quite low in depressed patients, especially women taking birth-control pills or other forms of estrogens.

Folate
Depression is the most common symptom of a folic acid deficiency. Other symptoms of folic acid deficiency are: fatigue, apathy, and dementia.

B-12
Recent studies have shown that there is a definite benefit to be gained by giving vitamin B12 to patients suffering from depression, fatigue and mental illnesses of other kinds. Even a slight deficiency of B12 is found to produce marked symptoms.

Pantothenate
Low levels can lead to sleep disturbances headaches, gastrointestinal distress and fatigue.

Biotin
Necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. It plays a role in the Citric acid cycle, which is the process by which biochemical energy is generated.

Magnesium
Dr. Bernard Jensen wrote, “Magnesia, an inorganic substance,…is actually a combination of oxygen and magnesium….Man must have the biochemic (organic) form—food magnesium—rather than the inorganic form…The patient who is highly nervous, excitable, overly emotional and erratic in actions needs magnesium as a sedative”.

Zinc
A deficiency of zinc will depress the immune system and leave you at higher risk of infection.

Potassium
Deficiencies of potassium can lead to behavioral disturbances

Choline
The supplement is touted as beneficial for mood, mental acuity and heart health.

Inositol
Studies have found that it also may help patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

PABA
Deficiency symptoms include fatigue, irritability, depression, nervousness, headache, constipation, and other digestive disorders.

Example Of A Nutritional Herbal Formula For Stress, Insomnia, Restlessness, And Anxiety. Also Helps Maintain Your Nutritional Support System. Can Be Taken With B Stress Supplements.

In wild crafted or organic form this herbal formula is nourishing, tranquilizing and anti-spasmodic in action. It is designed to encourage composure while reducing anxiety, tension and stress. It is intended to help calm down, rest, relax, sedate and relieve nervous tension and muscle spasm. Listed below are each of the herbs and their benefits and safety.

Important Note: If your herbal supplement does not say that it is organic or wild crafted then it could be grown anywhere under less then healthy conditions. This is one area where the government rigorously enforces the law and so does the herbal industry.

The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional safe use.

Black Cohosh root
Used as a tonic for the central nervous system and is regarded as a nervine. It is an excellent, safe sedative for nervous disorders, and is put in many nerve combinations.

Valerian root
Used for over a 1000 years to calm all kinds of nervous disorders. In centuries past it was taken as often as coffee in Europe. Called “Nature’s Tranquilizer”; because it calms the nerves without the side effects of comparable orthodox drugs.

Blue Cohosh root
Blue Cohosh may be used in cases where an anti-spasmodic is called for and it can also calm frazzled

nerves and relieve anxiety.

Wild Yam root
Wild yam acts as a sedative on the nerves governing muscles which relax the stomach walls and abdominal area. Wild yam is very relaxing and soothing to the nerves of people who suffer from anxiety.

Hops flower
Am excellent nerve tonic that is fast acting where insomnia and nightmares are a problem. Hops are an excellent food source of B 3 known as the happy vitamin.

Passion Flower herb
Used to soothe the nervous system without the side effects of depression or disorientation. Encourages deep restful sleep without morning hangover effects.

Skullcap herb
Relaxes nervous tension, induces calm and counteracts sleeplessness. Has shown itself to be excellent for breaking addictions and easing problems associated with drug withdrawal.

Lobelia herb & seed
Known, to be a powerful physical relaxant, affecting the nervous system. It is considered one of the strongest and safest relaxants in the herbal kingdom.

Chamomile flower
Is best known as a soothing digestive tonic which is sedative in nature and used for calming the nerves and inducing sleep.

Wood Betony herb
Is calming to the nerves, sooths tension, tones stomach and a remedy for chronic headaches.

Suggested Guidelines: Not recommended if pregnant, nursing, or if currently taking prescription or over the counter medications. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional if condition persists or increases.

For a personal evaluation, Colleen Gagliardi, ND and Whole Body Balance can help you.

Chiropractic for kids???

2009-07-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

source: yourspine.com

Chiropractors for kids: Could working on a child’s back help more than just aches and pains?

Some D.C. area parents say yes!

31-year-old Marietta Watts is concerned her five-month-old baby, Hugh, is going to develop asthma and allergies. So right after he was born, she took him to the chiropractor.

“His dad does have asthma, did have asthma as a child and I had allergies as a child as well, so. It could be hereditary but if we can prevent it, we will,“ she said.

Watts is part of a growing number of parents taking their children to chiropractors. A recent National Institutes of Health report found that three percent of American children were cared for by a chiropractor, making it the 2nd most common type of alternative medicine for children.

“Parents should bring their kids regardless if there’s something wrong or not,“ said Natasha Smith, who is a chiropractor.

Natasha Smith says manipulating a child’s spine or giving “adjustments” can help with more than just back problems. She believes it can cure chronic ear infections, allergies, colds, even bed wetting and problems with sleep.

“Our main goal, our main function is to remove any nervous interference that affects the body’s ability to heal. So with all of our patients, that is our goal. We are just assessing the spine, feeling for any type of misalignments,“ Natasha Smith said.

She also says when the nerves along the spine become compressed, that can cause problems in other parts of the body, even other organs.

“Once you remove that spinal misalignment that’s putting pressure at the nerve, the nerve is then able to function better, so as a result of the nerve functioning better, you’re able to supply those muscles, organs in the body better and therefore overall, feel a lot better,“ she said.

While a 2007 safety review found that injuries were rare, some medical experts worry that one wrong move could seriously injure a child.

“The biggest concern that I have is that some chiropractors, probably all chiropractors are trained to do high velocity movements, but I think that some chiropractors have used them on children and that’s very, very dangerous,“ Dr. Sally Evans, a pediatrician, said.

Dr. Sally Evans from Children’s National Medical Center says since a child’s ligaments are more flexible, some types of sudden, quick movements could cause spinal cord injuries.

But Smith says, she’s very gentle when it comes to working with children. The amount of pressure she applies to the back is similar to how a person would feel a ripe tomato.

“I believe that if there is a way that you can treat a child or treat a person non conventionally, in the sense of using medicine, why not try it?,“ she said.

Doctors say that if you are going to bring your child to the chiropractor, make sure that the person is board certified.

There are some chiropractors who specialize in working with children. Dr. Peter Scher at Whole Body Balance treats patients 5 and up.

New Problems with Spinal Fusion

2009-07-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

original source: NY Times

A new study links the bone growth agent in the Medtronic Infuse Bone Graft to life-threatening problems after neck surgery, where it may cause swelling that makes it difficult to breath. This can lead to an emergency tracheotomy or death.

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the actions of Medtronic, Inc. and their off-label promotion of this product in violation of federal law.

While the Infuse Bone Graft is only approved for use in the lower lumbar spine, it has been widely used off-label in the cervical spine which has been associated with life–threatening problems, such as:

Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty Speaking
Swelling of the Neck
Compression of Airways
Nerve Damage
Death

The close proximity of the cervical spine to the airway has caused a number of serious complications associated with use of the Medtronic Infuse bone graft in the cervical spine or neck fusions.

The FDA issued a warning to healthcare providers in July 2008 highlighting at least 38 reports of cervical spine fusion problems with the bone morphogenetic protein in the Medtronic Infuse. The serious and life-threatening complications caused by airway compression have required a number of patients to receive respiratory support, tracheotomies, insertion of feeding tubes anti-inflammatory medications and additional surgery.

A number of Medtronic Infuse lawsuits have been filed on behalf of individuals who experienced problems with breathing and swallowing that developed days or weeks following their neck surgery.

In November 2008, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated an investigation into the actions of Medtronic, Inc., and whether they actively promoted and marketed the Medtronic Infuse bone graft for use in the cervical spine. While doctors are allowed to use FDA approved medical devices for non-approved purposes, the manufacturer is not allowed to promote or encourage such uses that they have not established as safe and effective.

The Medtronic Infuse bone graft is a man-made liquid bone graft that includes a biologically engineered protein called bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), made by Wyeth.

The bone stimulator is used to encourage bone growth and replace damaged spinal disks by filling the gaps between vertebrae. The Infuse is soaked in a sponge-like material and implanted between spinal vertebrae, enclosed in a metallic cage.

Since it was approved by the FDA in 2002, the Medtronic bone graft has been widely used during spinal fusions and has generated sales of over $3 billion.

Most of the Medtronic Infuse bone stimulator complications have occurred within 2 to 14 days after surgery as the neck swells, compressing the airway and nerves.

According to research previously presented by a group of North Carolina surgeons, the Medtronic Infuse cervical spine complication rate is about 59%, compared with a complication rate of 21% for bone grafts or collagen used in conventional cervical spine fusions.

The new study, conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, was published June 30 in The The Journal of the American Medical Association and found that Medtronic Infuse and other products use a bioengineered bone growth protein called BMP that appears to be the cause of the higher incidence of neck surgery problems when they are used during cervical spinal fusion procedures to correct neck pains.

The study looked at both Medtronic Infuse, and a Stryker product called OP-1 Putty, which is used in a very limited number of patients where other spinal fusion methods are not an option.

Use of BMP has become popular because it allows bone to heal faster after surgery. It also tends to require less repeat surgeries, and doctors do not have to harvest the bone from other parts of the body, such as the hip.

The study found that patients who received bioengineered proteins in upper spinal fusion procedures suffered a complication rate of 7 percent; 50 percent higher than those who did not. When used on lower spinal, or lumbar, fusion procedures, there was no increase in complications, however.

Researchers say the rate of complication is probably higher, because the study only looked at patients who suffered complications while still in the hospital recovering from surgery. Many patients likely had complications after they left the hospital that went unreported.

Editors Note: Safe, natural, effective chiropractic care should always be the first choice for spinal problems. Proper spinal health care can reduce or eliminate the need for risky invasive procedures utilizing drugs and surgery.

Seniors Benefit From Massage

2009-07-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Massage, which benefits people of all ages, can be a useful therapy for seniors in treating and managing a wide range of conditions. Massage therapy improves circulation and lymphatic flow, and helps maintain mobility.

It decreases inflammation and can help alleviate muscle pain, stiffness and cramping. It improves muscle and skin tone, and enhances feelings of calmness and well-being. And, "it's very social," says massage therapist Shauna Sky Romano, director/ owner of Love2Move High Performance Coaching and Movement Education Centre, which offers massage therapy as one of its services.

According to Sky Romano, it's important for older adults to find a good massage therapist who works with seniors and will address any health concerns they might have. "There are great therapists who can work with all kinds of contraindications and still give the benefits of massage, which is really important," she says.

—Calgary Herald, Calgary, AB, Canada, June 29

Weight Loss

2009-07-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

Massage Magazine put out a very interesting article on the connection between weight loss and vitamin D levels

Vitamin D levels in the body at the start of a low-calorie diet predict weight loss success, a new study found. The results, which suggest a possible role for vitamin D in weight loss, were presented at The Endocrine Society's 91st Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.

"Vitamin D deficiency is associated with obesity, but it is not clear if inadequate vitamin D causes obesity or the other way around," said the study's lead author, Shalamar Sibley, MD, MPH, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota.

In this study, the authors attempted to determine whether baseline vitamin D levels before calorie restriction affect subsequent weight loss. They measured circulating blood levels of vitamin D in 38 overweight men and women before and after the subjects followed a diet plan for 11 weeks consisting of 750 calories a day fewer than their estimated total needs. Subjects also had their fat distribution measured with DXA (bone densitometry) scans.

On average, subjects had vitamin D levels that many experts would consider to be in the insufficient range, according to Sibley.

However, the authors found that baseline, or pre-diet, vitamin D levels predicted weight loss in a linear relationship. For every increase of 1 ng/mL in level of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol—the precursor form of vitamin D and a commonly used indicator of vitamin D status—subjects ended up losing almost a half pound (0.196 kg) more on their calorie-restricted diet. For each 1-ng/mL increase in the active or "hormonal" form of vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol), subjects lost nearly one-quarter pound (0.107 kg) more.

Additionally, higher baseline vitamin D levels (both the precursor and active forms) predicted greater loss of abdominal fat.

"Our results suggest the possibility that the addition of vitamin D to a reduced-calorie diet will lead to better weight loss," Sibley said.

She cautioned, however, that more research is needed. "Our findings," she said, "need to be followed up by the right kind of controlled clinical trial to determine if there is a role for vitamin D supplementation in helping people lose weight when they attempt to cut back on what they eat."

Here at Whole Body Balance, we offer a variety of holistic ways to assist you with weight loss: Cold Laser, a very successful coupling of Naturopathic Medicine and Cold Laser, and Acupuncture.

Need to Shed a Few Extra Pounds?

2009-06-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

Article by Diane Joswick

Acupuncture is growing in popularity as an effective weight loss tool. With this rise in the use of acupuncture for weight loss came the need for a critical assessment of the studies that have been performed.

The International Journal of Obesity just published a review of 31 studies on the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of obesity. The systematic review was comprised of 3013 individual cases where acupuncture was used to reduce body weight.

The aim of this review was to critically assess evidence for reduction of body weight and to evaluate adverse events of acupuncture therapy based on the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluate the effect of various types of acupuncture therapies.

The results of this review showed that compared to control of lifestyle, acupuncture was associated with a significant reduction of average body weight (95% confidence interval, CI) of 1.72 kg (0.50–2.93 kg) and was associated with an improvement in obesity (relative risk=2.57; 95% CI, 1.98–3.34). Acupuncture significantly reduced a body weight of 1.56 kg (0.74–2.38 kg), on average, compared to placebo or sham treatments. Acupuncture also showed more improved outcomes for body weight (mean difference=1.90 kg; 1.66–2.13 kg), as well as for obesity (relative risk=1.13; 1.04–1.22), than conventional medication.

While this review did show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for obesity, the researchers expressed that they would like to see more well-planned, long-term studies to address the effectiveness of acupuncture for treating obesity and weight loss.

What you eat can help heal you.

2009-06-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

Article by Susan Krieger

Traditional Asian, Chinese and Macrobiotic Medicine practitioners often stress that to achieve and maintain good health one needs to tend to one’s physical, emotional and spiritual well being as well as caring for others. Treatments of various forms such as shiatsu/acupressure, acupuncture, energy healing, etc. can help greatly and at times are deemed necessary. Yet, they are meant to be conjunct with daily fundamental practices of healthy eating, regular movement, exercise, and active work. These comprise a personally and socially interactive life.

Dietary guidelines and recommendations are devised on the basis of Traditional Chinese and Macrobiotic intake and diagnosis for general use and/or for one’s specific and personal health needs of body/mind. Food Energetics and Diet therapy involve the removal of foods that perpetuate the imbalances at hand, and supplementation with food types which help heal and correct the imbalance.

Chinese Medicine and Macrobiotics liken the body’s environment to that of nature. The practitioner observes and assesses the possibilities of phenomena manifesting within the body. Phenomena include cold, damp, wind, heat, dryness, and yin and yang harmony, along with the synergistic emotional and spiritual manifestations. When these present themselves in what is termed either “excess” or “deficient” amounts, the mind, body, and spirit can be adversely affected.

Each food type is understood to have warming, cooling, drying, moistening, descending/ascending, and yin and yang qualities. Some foods act with more than one energetic influence. A simple example is that if an individual is seen to have internal heat, the practitioner is likely to choose foods that balance and create more internal cooling in order to help disperse the heat appropriately for that person’s condition. The guidance includes foods for the particular health concerns if any, the season, emotional needs, and energy needed for daily work and life. The practitioner assesses the person’s ability to understand the recommendations and to practically implement them into their lives.

Through the lens of the 5 Elements, looking at the whole person and their environment, we apply the way food is chosen, prepared, and consumed, and how this impacts the type of energy—Qi—that the body produces. The effect of food on the state of well being is paramount.

An understanding of Food Energetics plays a vital role in creating harmony and is a powerful and very useful tool towards restoring balance. Self-empowerment should be encouraged and inspired to be a goal for the person receiving guidance and treatment.

Food Energetics and Diet therapy are not necessarily concerned with weight loss, although it is known to help tremendously. It brings about internal organ balance and strengthens the underlined organic weaknesses so that the foods ingested are transformed with the least amount of strain on organ/energy output, while providing the maximum dietary benefit to build essential body essences as Qi, Fluids, and Blood.

While looking at the 5 Elements (a magnificent and thought provoking study containing easy and complex insights) and their relationship in health, nutrition, and healing we need to be cognizant of the reality that there is no fixed or static method to understand others and ourselves. We need to be flexible with our knowledge and to continually activate and be in touch with our intuition and spiritual higher selves for solving problems and for creating the most value from them.

“Bearing and nurturing,
Creating but not owning,
Giving without demanding,
This is harmony.” Quote from the Tao DeChing

Recommendations for Nourishing the Elements:
A preferred time to nourish an element is considered to be through the nourishing/parent element, which is the preceding element/season.

Wood-Spring-Wind
Spring is when living things begin to grow and express expansive yang qi. The external influence of wind may invade a person making one vulnerable to colds, flu, or a relapse of a past illness.

The sour taste in moderation nourishes the strength of liver Qi as in citrus, lemon, pickles, sauerkraut, yogurt, plum, umeboshi, liver, leeks, barley, wheat, chicken, and leafy greens with especially the sharp taste such as watercress and scallions.

If liver Qi is stagnated the emphasis is on lightly cooked foods with more sharp and pungent tastes and less dense foods as dairy, meat, and baked flour products. Some recommended foods include lemon, pickles, dandelion, spinach, corn, celery, onion, lettuce, mustard greens, yam, barley, wheat, sesame seeds, dates, peanuts, onions, cilantro, bamboo shoot, mushrooms, and quinoa.

Emotions, negative—anger, resentment, frustration, irritability, bitterness, "flying off the handle". There may be a tendency for unresolved frustrations to emerge in inappropriate ways as arguments, negative expressions towards others, and impatience with oneself often related to unfinished projects or perceived failures. From a Buddhist or psycho-spiritual view what we feel are failures are potentially great opportunities to re-establish our self-confidence, to see the benefits of the experience and to create new seeds and goals for our future.

Balanced wood energy is reflected in our ability to manifest patience and compassion, foremost towards ourselves while reaching out to help others from a base of a smooth-unfettered life force to create peaceful, affirming dialogue, relationships and environments.

Also See Water.

Fire- Summer-Heat
In the summer heat is rising and in order to maintain good health it is important to restore and maintain normal levels of yang as well as to balance one’s health with yin, cooling influences and foods.

The bitter taste nourishes the heart Qi as in dandelion root and greens, sesame seeds, celery, quinoa, scallions, asparagus, alfalfa, citrus peel, wine, lamb, and apricots.

If heart Qi is overly yang the emphasis is on lighter grains and cooking styles, cooler foods as salads with dandelion, lots of alfalfa tea, light leafy greens such as nisuma, sprouts, tofu, natto, and less or no spices, baked foods, or alcohol.

The daily diet should contain more cooling preparations, salads, vegetables, and fruit to stimulate the appetite and provide fluids. One should avoid heavy, oily, and very salty or sweet foods. External influences of summer heat and dampness are common in summer causing people to be sweatier, thirstier, and more irritable and tired.

Emotions, negative—lack of enthusiasm and vitality, mental restlessness, depression. There may be a lack of lightheartedness or ability to laugh and enjoy life; or, the opposite-constant laughter and incessant chatter.

Balanced fire energy is reflected in the ability to emanate joy and to experience and show a love of giving and receiving for oneself and others. The more we honor and put love and joy into our own lives, like a magnet the more love is available to come to us-from various people and sources.

Also see Wood.

Earth-Late Summer-Damp
In late summer yang is still prevalent while yin qi begins to predominate as we are cooling from summer. Nature is in its central position of balance as it quiets the fire and moves deeper within, preparing for autumn.

The sweet taste nourishes spleen and stomach Qi as in pumpkins, cooked onions, squashes, sweet potato, peach, dates, apple, cherry, beef, millet, almonds, coconut, and cooking with mirin or maple, barley, or rice syrup. One may increase animal foods as the climate begins to cool.

If spleen Qi is deficient the emphasis is on more root vegetables and longer cooking styles, using easy to digest yet strong dishes such as Oden Stew or Congi with brown rice or millet. Avoid dairy and damp, heavy foods such as cakes and ice cream. The movement of fire-active foods will help replenish. Chewing food and eating smaller meals will strengthen earth energy and therefore our digestion. One should be conscious that eating excess fruits and oils in the summer may give rise to mucus, phlegm and discomfort in the late summer affecting the stomach and lungs.

Emotions, negative—worry, dwelling or focusing too much on a particular topic, excessive mental activity, and work. Sitting for long periods of time can deplete earth Qi. The negative splenic disposition can be one of suspicion, that is, lack of trust in oneself or others. The flip side of this is a tendency to be overly sympathetic and to easily become co-dependent on others.

Balanced earth energy is manifested by reliability, composure, empathy, and an inner sense of self-value, all which help create trust of and from others in our environments.

Also see Fire.

Metal- Autumn-Dry
Things begin to fall and mature in autumn; yin qi continues to predominate and yang qi to wane.
It is advisable to eat more food with pungent, salty, sour, and sweet tastes.

The pungent taste nourishes the lung Qi as in raw or lightly cooked onions, mustard greens, daikon radish, ginger, less oily fish, mustard, soy beans, lotus root, cloves, cayenne, basil, mint, tofu, rice, salads or steamed veggies with lots of greens, wheatgrass juice, pear and an increase of sea veggies such as hiziki, wakame, and kombu which will strengthen the blood, and circulation of qi.

If lung Qi or large colon are sluggish or congested a remedy is a ginger or mustard compress on the back shu point area-between the shoulder blades-of the Lungs or for the colon on the lower back or Hara-lower abdominal-area. (Use compress only if you know it is safe at that time or if recommended by an experienced guide.)

Pungent foods assist the lung Qi to disperse. Sour flavors are cool in energy and tend to move downward benefiting the lungs' descending function. Salty foods are necessary in moderation all year and at this time they can be increased to assist the oncoming winter/water season. A focus is to moisturize internal dryness caused by lack of body fluid from dry heat and/or a dry climate, and thus help restore normal lung function.

Emotions, negative—grief, sadness, detached. There may be a tendency to suffer loss and not feel able to let go when it is time to move on from a challenging situation.
Balanced metal energy is manifested in an openness to life’s experiences, being flexible, able to forgive, and to truly let go of past painful attachments, to create, and to accept new people and experiences, prosperity, and abundance in one’s life.

Also see Earth.

Water- Winter-Cold
This is the time when yang qi becomes latent and yin qi dominates and we need to conserve energy and build strength to be ready for spring. Storing our reserves is vital for the strength of our kidneys. It is advisable to eat more food with salty, sour, and bitter flavors. Eating excess glutinous, uncooked, and cold food damages the kidneys, spleen, and stomach, and should be taken in moderation. Foods with more oils help to retain warmth.

The salty taste nourishes kidney Qi as in sea veggies, sea salt, aduki beans, black soybeans, burdock, pork, fish, walnuts, black sesame seeds, dark leafy greens, figs, kombu tea, shiitake, cucumber, reishi, and daikon. If kidney Qi is deficient nourish with combined sea and land vegetable dishes such as dried daikon in stew or dark leafy greens in fish stew.

Nourishing kidneys, which are highly active in winter, strengthens their storage function helping to preserve their essence, which means preserving core life energy.

Although individual sea vegetables can be targeted for nourishing each element this rich source of minerals is highly important for nourishing and strengthening the kidneys, bones, and blood. Use hiziki, kombu, arame, wakame, dulse, nori, black fungus, kelp and more.

Emotions, negative—fearful, weak willpower, insecure, aloof, and isolated. There may be a tendency to hold in one’s dreams and goals, to withhold sharing with others, and to have little faith or confidence in one’s ability to make things happen in life.

Balanced water is manifested when the desire, will, and courage to manifest movement and changes in life are prevalent. Self-confidence is known to be housed in and reflected by our kidney Qi which becomes strong from foods, exercises such as qi-gong, and spiritual growth, as well as the courage to find, believe in, and move towards our higher goals and dreams. When we positively activate and direct water energy the planning and manifesting stages of wood and fire become active and the spiral of change continues to flow.

Treating Moodiness with Acupuncture

2009-06-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

(Article by Diane Joswick)

Everyone suffers from irritability and moodiness from time to time, but if you find that a short temper and frustration are becoming a constant issue for you, then acupuncture may be able to help.

Often irritability and moodiness are the consequence of chronic stress in your life. Over time these emotions can progress into more serious emotional conditions such as anxiety and depression as well as other health conditions such as digestive problems, trouble sleeping and the tendency to get sick more frequently.

Liver Qi Stagnation and Emotions

Within Oriental medicine, emotional disorders can be associated with a number of different patterns of disharmony; however, anger, irritability, and frustration are all signs that our qi (life force) is not flowing smoothly. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi throughout the body and for smoothing our emotions. When the liver’s function of moving qi is disrupted, qi can become stuck. This is referred to as liver qi stagnation.

Liver qi stagnation is one of the most common patterns of disharmony seen in today’s patients. In addition to irritability and moodiness, signs and symptoms may include: distending pain in the area below the ribs, stuffiness of the chest, sighing, abdominal distention, nausea, sour regurgitation, belching, diarrhea or constipation, feeling of a lump in the throat, irregular periods, painful periods and distention of the breasts prior to periods. Liver qi stagnation is commonly associated with PMS.

Acupuncture is excellent at relieving liver qi stagnation. Treatment for irritability and moodiness associated with liver qi stagnation focuses on moving qi and supporting the liver and spleen organ systems with acupuncture, lifestyle and dietary recommendations and perhaps an herbal formula.

If you are concerned that your emotions may be interfering with your health and wellness, please call Whole Body Balance to see how acupuncture can help.

Move Your Qi!

The liver is responsible for the smooth flowing of Qi (life force) throughout the body. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. So, for optimum health, move your Qi!

Stretch - The liver controls the tendons. According to Oriental medicine, the liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. Incorporate a morning stretch into your routine. Try yoga or tai qi.

Eye Exercises - The liver opens into the eyes. Although all the organs have some connection to the health of the eyes, the liver is connected to proper eye function. Remember to take breaks when looking at a computer monitor for extended periods of time and do eye exercises.

Eat Green - Green is the color of the liver. Eating young plants - fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature cereal grasses - can improve the liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of qi.

Try Something Sour - Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to stimulate the liver's qi. Put lemon slices in your drinking water, use vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing and garnish your sandwich with a slice of dill pickle.

Do More Outdoor Activities - Outside air helps liver qi flow. If you have been feeling irritable, find an outdoor activity to smooth out that liver qi stagnation. Try hiking or take up golf.

Enjoy Milk Thistle Tea - Milk thistle helps protect liver cells from incoming toxins and encourages the liver to cleanse itself of damaging substances, such as alcohol, medications, pesticides, environmental toxins, and even heavy metals such as mercury.

Get Acupuncture Treatments - Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help improve the overall health of your liver as well as treat stress, anger and frustration, which are often associated with liver qi disharmony.

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation

Periodic acupuncture treatments can serve to tonify the inner organ systems and can correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems.

Here are some of the symptoms commonly associated with liver qi stagnation.

Pain or discomfort anywhere along the sides of the body
Depression
Mood swings
Sighing
Hiccups
Frustration
Inappropriate anger
Sensation of a lump in the throat
Difficulty swallowing
Bitter taste in mouth
Constipation or diarrhea
Abdominal distention and discomfort
Stomachache that improves after massage
Stomachache that worsens with anger
PMS with irritability or swollen breasts
Irregular or painful periods
Poor appetite
Churning sensation in stomach

Can You Eat Your Way Free From Seasonal Allergy Attacts??

2009-06-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Studies show that eating certain foods can help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms. So what should you eat, all you allergy sufferers??

Ginger--it acts as a natural antihistamine and decongestant.

Apples--they contain Quercetin which cross reacts with tree pollen. Quercetin acts as an antihistamine and decreases inflammation. Besides apples, you can find it in berries, red grapes, red onions, capers, and black tea

Carrots--they contain Carotenoids which decrease inflammation in the airways. Carotenoids are also found in apricots, butternut squash, collard greens, spinach, kale, and pumpkin

Allergies? Study shows Acupuncture can offer relief.

2009-06-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

The American Journal of Epidemiology recently published a study that showed that acupuncture can significantly relieve allergic rhinitis symptoms.

In this German study, 5,237 men and women were analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture in addition to routine care in patients with allergic rhinitis compared with treatment with routine care alone.

In this trial, patients with allergic rhinitis were randomly allocated to receive acupuncture for a 3 month period or to a control group that received no acupuncture. All patients were allowed to receive usual medical care. The Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) and general health-related quality of life (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey) were evaluated at baseline and after 3 and 6 months.

Improvements were noted at the 3 month and the 6 month evaluation for the patients receiving acupuncture. The authors of this trial concluded that treating patients with allergic rhinitis in routine care with additional acupuncture leads to clinically relevant and persistent benefits.

Source: European Journal of Integrative Medicine. 2008 Nov;101(5):535-43.

Thanks to Acufinder.com for this article.

Chiropractic, part of overall health care

2009-06-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

(thanks to NaturalNews) Chiropractors have, for the past 112 years, treated sickness and infirmity without the use of drugs and with the goal of avoiding surgical removal or repair of any of the body's organs or structures. Chiropractic's message is that the proactive care of one's body and wise lifestyle choices are necessary to achieve health. Chiropractors have held and maintained this view, even before it became fashionable and long before evidence made it clear that the drug and surgery model of "health care" is really nothing more than "disease care", waiting for disease to occur and then treating the effects. Chiropractic takes a preventive approach tto health care: eliminate the cause of disease.

Chiropractors have always maintained that interfering with the transmission of the electro-chemical signals that connect your brain, the master control system for the human organism, to every organ and cell in your body has a detrimental effect on health.

This system is so delicate and of such vital importance that the body has designed the most elaborate set of protection, armor if you will, to protect it. The skull is a protective vault that houses and protects the most sensitive of systems: the eyes, the mouth, the ears and most importantly, the brain. The next critical organ in your body, the spinal cord, is guarded by your spine. This masterpiece of engineering is 24 vertebrae, each one a unique bone, that serves not only as the axis of your musculoskeletal system, giving you the unique ability to walk upright, but also has a unique set of nerves that run through it to every other system of the body through individual holes called foramen.

What travels through the spine and the foramen that protect them is the very essence of your being. From your brain, your spinal cord and the millions of nerves that branch out from it are the core from which your body functions. Before you came into the world, you formed a brain and a spinal cord and developed a body around it. And so it is today that the brain regulates the rest of your body through this delicate system of nerves protected by your spine.

Chiropractors maintain the proper position of these delicate joints and the precious cargo which they protect, your nerve system.

Pressure on the root nerves that leave the spine through the foramen to control and regulate all of the other organ systems of the body can affect millions of nerve fibers. Pressure on the brain stem, where it leaves the skull and enters the spine can also affect millions of nerve fibers. Interfering with these nerve fibers can have disastrous affects on your health.

Chiropractors detect and correct the cause of this interference, allowing your body to self regulate, adapt and heal. The care and maintenance of the spine and nervous system is a necessary component of any natural approach to health and wellness.

Chiropractors have been outspoken opponents of water fluoridation, mass vaccination, over-use of prescription drugs, food additives and have always maintained that it is better to find and correct the cause of disease, rather than merely treat or cover up symptoms.

Today, chiropractors embrace and support the growing body of evidence that health is a result of - a fully functioning nerve system, consuming natural, nutrient rich food, clean pure water, proper exercise, natural sleep and emotional/spiritual well being. A healthy spine allows your body to adapt, regulate and fully realize the benefits of all of these other natural methods of avoiding disease and achieving health. See your chiropractor today to have your spine checked and begin to extricate yourself from the disease care system of treating symptoms.

The Evils of the Flip-Flop

2009-06-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

I'm as saddened by this article, summer-loving-fool that I am--as you are.

Flip-Flops Can Cause Long-Term Health Problems

Walking in flip-flops is a possible cause of aches and pains all over the body, according to a new study from the American College os Sports Medicine.

In fact, podiatrists say that summer's favorite footwear is responsible for more health problems than any other type of shoe, even high heels.

"We became interested in flip-flops when we noticed an increase in lower leg pain when our students came back from summer and were transitioning back into wearing tennis shoes and street shoes, "said [sic] Prof. Wendi Weimer of Auburn University, who se up an experiment with her graduate students to look at how the foot hits the ground. Participants were asked to wear either sneakers or thong flip-flops.

With the average American taking between 10,000 and 20,000 steps each day, the small changes in one's gait can add up to serious injury.

"The major shock absorption occurs back on the heel and if the surface between the heel and the ground is not supported it does not allow the heel to absorb shock as well as it should. Which means the foot works harder than it should and people tend to develop overuse injuries such as tendonitis, or in this case, lower leg, knee, hip, and back problems, explained [sic] Dr Rock Positano from the Hosptial for Special Surgery in New York.

Fortunately for flip-flop fanatics, Positano says you don't have to throw away those thongs sandals yet:

"Look, this is not an attack on a flip-flop or a flip-flop like shoe. Once again it has to do with when you wear the flip-flop. If it's for haging out around the swimming pool or hanging out around the beach or hanging out with your friends, they're fine."

Ankle Sprains: New Remedies

2009-06-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

Athletic as Boulder is, I thought this would be an interesting article for you all. As an avid trail runner, I can't even count how many times I've rolled my ankle. Actually, now that I think about it, the worst sprain I've gotten was unclipping on the trail while mountain biking--watch where you step!!! Regardless, Dr. Pete has always set me straight--literally :) and the cold laser has quickened the healing process immensely.

So for all of us ankle-injured masses, here is a great article about some new remedies written by Deborah Franklin from The Consumer (July 18, 2006).

Emergency room statics suggest that every day in this country, an estimated 23,000 people--athletes, stylists in stilettos, middle-aged accountants in sensible shoes--severely turn an ankle, stretching and tearing the ligaments, tendons, and neuromuscular connections that keep the jumble of bones in place.

Torn-up knees and dislocated shoulders get more press and sympathy. But doctors know that a bad ankle sprain is not only more common, but can be at least as far reaching in its effects. A broken bone usually takes weeks to heal, but the worst ankle sprains may require three months of rehabilitation.

Any wrenching turn that swells the ankle like a water balloon and leaves it too painful to walk on for a day or longer weakens the joint and primes it for more bad sprains and osteoarthritis years later, according to Bruce Beynnon, a biomechanical engineer at the University of Vermont who has spent decades studying knee and ankle injuries.

Dr. Beynnon said [sic] that many athletic coaches used to routinely tell players after a sprain to "just walk it off." But, he said [sic], "People who know the reseach on sprains don't recommend that anymore."

In the hope of finding better ways to prevent such injuries and help them heal faster, Dr. Beynnon and colleagues have been looking for risk factors that may make some people more vulnerable to sprained ankles than others.

Their most recent findings, presented this month in hershey, Pa., at a meeting of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, suggest tha men and women tend to have a different set of risk factors that should perhaps change the ways the two groups train if they want to avoid sprains.

"Basically, what they found was that for women, the risk for injury had to do with balance and strength in opposing muscle groups, whereas for men it's more often about range of motion in the joint," said [sic] Dr. Timothy E Hewett, director of the Sports Medicine Biodynamics Center at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. "That's important and exactly what I would have expected them to find, based on what we're learning about sex differences in knee injuries."

Statistics gathered in the 1990s by the National Collegiate Athletic Association showed that depending on the sport, female athletes were two to four more liekly than men to suffer a tear or other injury to the knee's anterior cruciate ligament, or A.C.L.

Dr Beynnon and his team recruited 901 members of men's and women's varsity soccer, basketball, lacrosse, and field hockey teams from several high schools and two universities in New England. Each student was put through a variety of tests to measure, among other things, laxity or "wobbliness" of the ankle, flexibility, and the relative strength of the muscles that help keep the hinge from rolling inward or outward in an off-kilter landing.

The researchers also measured the general alignment of the knee, ankle, and lower leg and the range of motion of each joint.

None of the students had suffered an ankle injury before the start of the four-year study or took any special precautions to avoid sprains. By the end of the final season, 43 students had suffered an ankle sprain severe enough to require medical attention and force them to miss at least one game or practice.

According to the results, women might be best able to help protect their ankles by doing exercises a few times a week that isolate and symmetrically strengthen the muscles that roll the foot inward and outward, Dr Beynnon said [sic]. In contrast, balance taining and traditional stretching excercises for calves and the Achilles tendon that increase the ankle's up and down range of motion may be more useful for men.

Unfortunately, improved training will not be able to remedy all the differences that turned up between those who got hurt and those who did not. The women identified in the preseason screening as having extra looseness in an ankle, for example, were significantly more likely to go on to sprain it, as were the men who had undergone previous non-joint-related surgeries to lower a leg.

But Dr. Beynnon and others have found in previous research that wearing a lace-up ankle brace--a semi-rigid stocking without toes that is worn over the sock--can lend needed support to the lax joint and reduce injury in athletes who have that risk factor. Knee braces have not been shown to be effective in preventing a first injury, he added [sic], "but we now now that bracing can help ankles."

Interestingly, taping the ankle--a timeworn effort to guard the joints in many sports--may make an athlete feel more secure but offers little benefit, Dr Beynno and other researchers studying the problem say.

Dr Mitchell Cordova, chairman of the department of kinesiology at the university of North Carolina at Charlotte, cites studies showing that the adhesive tape loosens during excercise, losing about 50 % of its ability to stabilize the joint in the first 10 or 20 minutes of play. A brace, he said [sic], stays tightly supportive much longer.

Dr Cordova recommends the braces primarily as a part of rehabilitation for previously injured joints. Dr Beynnon, however, is convinced that ankle braces may be useful in prevention as well, at least for those who have been told by coaches or doctors that they have "loose joints." At his suggestion, Dr Beynnon's two tennage daughters wear braces when playing basketball.

The ultimate goal is not to recommend braces or special exercises for everyone, Dr Beynnon said [sic], but to figure out who is at risk and why and then tailor a training program to produce an athlete who safely maximizes his or her physical potential. Dr Hewett is already at work on simple screening tests that can be used in middle schools and high schools with accompanying exercises on balance boards, for example, that could easily be added to the school weight room.

"We're talking about sort of a paradign shift in training,, " Dr Beynnon said [sic]. coaches in most sports have never thought about this. They never get an athlete to work on isolating the muscles on the ouside of the leg. The focus has been on running and drills that get you down the court or field faster to make more points."

Whether the finding directly apply to older or less dedicated athletes, summer hikers and ill-stepping accountants remain to be seen. But Dr Hewett is convinced that the exercises emphasizing balance, stability, flexibility, and core body strength get more important as people age.

"These techniques will not only make you safer," Dr Hewett said [sic], "but a better athlete too."

Acupuncture's Effect on Fibromyalgia

2009-06-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Effectiveness in Fibromyalgia Treatment
Acupuncture and acupressure have actually shown to relieve pain symptoms caused by fibromyalgia. In a recent study performed by the Mayo Clinic, fibromyalgia acupuncture treatment was shown to reduce pain and depression. Acupuncture for fibromyalgia was also shown to increase energy and reduce fatigue. Other studies have illustrated that acupuncture remains effective for up to one month after treatment.

Another recent acupunture trial has also shown that stimulation in certain areas of the body is particularly helpful for relieving fibromyalgia pain. In the study, a needle was inserted into the trapezius muscles (near the back and shoulder) of both fibromyalgia patients and healthy controls. The needles helped to increase blood flow in fibromyalgia patients to a much greater degree than in the healthy controls. this increased blood circulation helped to reduce the number of tender points and increase muscle health.

New Research
A recent study done by the Mayo Clinic investigating specifically the affects of acupuncture on fibromyalgia found that fibromyalgia symptoms were reduced when patients received acupuncture. For the study, 50 patients were divided into two groups: one received acupuncture while the control group was given simulated acupuncture. Both groups had six sessions over a two to three week period.

In their findings, researchers noted that the most significant improvements were found in fatigue and anxiety levels. Most of the patients said they enjoyed receiving the acupuncture and side effects were minimal but included bruising and soreness in those that had true acupuncture. Overall, though, researchers found that the reported relief acupuncture provided patients was on par with medications, such as anti-depressants and acetaminophen.

This study is one of just three randomized and controlled studies looking at the effects of acupuncture on fibromyalgia. While one of the other studies found that acupuncture was not effective for pain relief, the other reported similar results to those noted by the Mayo Clinic. While more research clearly needs to be done, the findings so far do seem promising.

The Session
At your first acupuncture or acupressure session, your therapist will go over your medical history with you. This is in order to get information about your general health and the symptoms that you would like to see treated. Your therapist may ask specific questions about your symptoms and any fibromyalgia treatments that you are currently using.

Treatment usually begins with your therapist checking your pulse and assessing the color and texture of your tongue. This is in order to discern which acupoints should be targeted during the session. Up to fifteen points may be pinpointed by your therapist in one session. Your therapist will begin applying pressure or inserting needles into these acupoints. You should not experience any pain, but you may feel aching or tingling at the site.

Thanks to Fibromyalgia-symptoms.com

COLD LASER THERAPY, the essentials

2009-06-11T11:35:00.000-07:00

People are continually asking me, "What is Cold Laser Therapy?"

Here is the best summation I could find to answer their question--thanks to coldlasertherapies.com for the input:

Cold Lasers can strengthen and heal damaged cells. Using photchemical processes, laser light inserts bio-photons into damaged cells. The cells begin to produce energy that improves their function, assists their division, strengthens the body's immune system, and causes the secretion of various hormones. The tissues are healed and pain disappears. If damaged cells have died, the bio-photons help the division of neighboring cells, generating new tissues, and thus bring about healing.

Jon and Dr. Pete have had great succes with cold laser therapy in their treatment of all kinds of sports injuries.

What happens to the Body During Pregnancy???

2009-06-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Though each pregnancy is different, here are some of the things to expect:

Endocrine System will have:

massive hormonal changes will effect all the endocrine glands and all the body systems
the hormone relaxin softens tendons, ligaments, and fascia throughout the body, giving added space in the pelvis in preparation for birth
estrogen increases the size of the the breasts, uterus, and cervix; it changes the metabolism; and increases skin pigmentation
progesterone promotes fat storage in thighs, buttock, hips, and around the internal organs in preparation for breast feeding; affects mood; increases breathing frequency; and dilates peripheral blood vessels and relaxes smooth muscles
HCG increases the basal metabolic rate and body temperature by about 1 degree

Gastrointestinal and urinary System

stomach motility decreases, which contributes to nausea and vomiting common during the 1st trimester
peristaltic activity and colon muscle tone decrease while pressure from the uterus on sigmoid colon increases, which contribute to constipation
around the 20th week, the stomach is pushed upward into the diaphragm, creating indigestion and heartburn
increased urination, fueled by the pressure of the growing uterus
strain on the pelvic floor muscles creates stress incontinence and often hemorrhoids

Respiratory System

the ribcage may begin to flare in the 2nd trimester as teh baby grows and the diaphragm elevates at the rib attachments--breathing becomes more costal than abdominal
in the 3rd trimester, breathing becomes more challenging

Skin

Stretch marks may appear on breasts, abdomen, hips, and legs
nipples darken and veins becomes more visible; a brownish line from the xyphoid to the pubic line appears
increased pigmentation of the skin may create the "mask of pregnancy" in some women

Circulatory System

metabolic rate increases due to the demands of new tissue growth
30-50% increase in total blood volume. Plasma increases 40% by 24-34 weeks, but as red blood cells increase more slowly, anemia may occur
varicose and spider veins occur as a result of increases pressure in the veins
clotting activity increases

Musculoskeletal System

as a result of increased levels of relaxin, muscle tension increases as muscles attempt to hold the relaxed joints in gravity; some women may become hypermobile
the additional anterior weight of the baby and breasts causes an increased anterior pelvic tilt, increased lateral hip rotation, anteriorly rotated shoulders, and forward head position
though all muscles are effected, the most stressed are postural muscles
increased pressure on hip, sacroiliac, lumbosacral, and pubic symphysis joints

Emotions

they can "roller coaster" from ellation to feeling out of control
a changing self image as the woman struggles with her feelings of becoming a mother and her ever-changing body
relationships with her partner, the baby, her family, and her workplace often change
the sense of independence and interdependence change
fear about the baby and anxiety about labor

Pregnancy and Massage Therapy

2009-06-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

Massage has been used for centuries by cultures across the globe to nurture pregnant women and relieve the stress of pregnancy's dramatic structural, physiological, psychological, spiritual, and social changes.

The stress of these changes can lead to a number of challenges:

weakened immune system
increased heart rate
increased blood pressure
increased nausea and vomiting
decreased blood supply to the uterus and the baby
interference with fetal brain and nervous system developement
greater likelihood of labor complications
difficulty recovering postpartum
fetal distress, low birth weight, and irritability

Research shows that massage therapy during pregnancy can result in:

decreased stress hormone levels
reduced maternal anxiety
improved mood
better sleep
less back pain
fewer complications in labor
fewer postnatal complications for the infant
increased secretion of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production
enhanced placental function

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

Facilitates the physiological process of gestation by increasing blood and lymphatic circulation for the mom, placenta, and the baby
Increases the mom's energy by increasing cellular respiration and nutrition
Improves lymphatic circulation--i.e. decreases edema
Reduces stress and promotes relaxation by stimulating glandular secretions
Reduces the stress on weight-bearing joints
Increases the mom's muscle tone and enhances her flexibility--A GREAT BENEFIT FOR THE BIRTHING PROCESS

How alternative treatments can make your pregnancy more comfortable

2009-06-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy can be taxing on the body. Here are some great articles describing how massage and acupuncture can help alleviate the discomfort of being pregnant.

Prenatal massage benefits:

http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/library/connecticut/ECTprenatalmassage.htm

Acupuncture relieves stress and sickness:

http://www.pregnancytoday.com/articles/comfort-in-pregnancy/acupuncture-1241/

http://acupuncture.com/newsletters/m_jun05/main1.htm

Is Acupuncture safe during pregnancy?:

http://www.babycenter.com/406_is-it-safe-to-receive-acupuncture-during-pregnancy_1246184.bc

Alternatives to Surgery for Back Pain

2009-06-04T06:37:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, my husband--now ex--was told he needed to have a spinal fusion. Being in intense pain, stooped forward--in a position that honestly looked completely uncomfortable to ME and I often and most unsympathetically told him, "maybe your back would feel better if you didn't slouch"--he was about to JUMP onto the operating table. ( It's funny how the prospect of being pain free will drive us to try all sorts of risky things. ) I convinced him to at least TRY an alternative treatment before fording into surgical waters. He, perhaps out of love but most likely to get e off my soap box, agreed. A chiropractor put him in traction; it helped but didn't stop the pain, nor was it offering relief quickly enough. So after stumbling around options, we landed on acupuncture. It worked wonders! A treatment greatly reduced his pain. And he avoided surgery. ...for a while that is. :( After our divorce, strangely, he gave up acupuncture and is now needing to consider surgery again.

Will he "remember" the wonders of acupuncture? Or will he fling himself into the arms of his surgeon?? Wish I could say. Funny, he doesn't listen to my advice these days...

For more on the effects of acupuncture on back pain: http://www.acupuncturearticles.com/Article/Acupuncture-and-Back-Pain/27

Benefits of Drinking Water with a Higher Ph

2009-06-02T13:51:00.000-07:00

One of the simplest and most important things that you can do to enjoy better health, combat disease, and increase your energy levels is to supply your body with a large amount of really good water.

Drinking good quality alkaline water full of antioxidants, in a form that can be easily absorbed and with a good supply of minerals can assist you in preventing and curing most of today's degenerative diseases. It will help you regain a feeling of vitality.

There are now inexpensive portable water ionizers that help to balance the acidity in our bodies. Read more about the Alkalark Portable Water Ionizer.

Quit Smoking with the help of Cold Laser Therapy

2009-06-02T13:50:00.001-07:00

People are constantly looking for safe and effective ways to quit smoking. The manufacturers of the drug Chantix are currently involved in a number of lawsuits with plaintiffs claiming that they became suicidal while on the drug. A new alternative in which acupouncture points are stimulate with a laser has been coming into the publics awareness over the last several years.

As you know, smoking is not only an expensive habit, but an unhealthy one. As reported in the British Medical Journal, non-smokers tend to live about 10 years longer than smokers.
However, those that stop smoking by the age of 50 cut their risk in half. Those that can stop by the age of 30 can avoid almost all of the associated risk.

Cold Laser Therapy is a safe, painless, and non-invasive method that helps smokers to break their habits...............permanently. By stimulating points in the ears, wrists, and hands, Cold laser therapy can help you combat your nicotine cravings. More information on quitting smoking in Colorado using Cold Laser Therapy is available at lasertonic.com

Liquid Vitamins--Amazing!

2009-06-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

People have been taking vitamins and supplements for years. The problem with many of these vitamins is that they are pills which don't get absorbed in the system. Liquid Vitamins get better absorption into the body. Body Balance from Life Force is easily absorbed by the body and provides over 120 naturally-occurring vital nutrients, antioxidents and phytonutrients.

Aloe vera and sea vegetables are two of the world’s leading natural sources of glyconutrients. Together they provide the 8 Essential Glyconutrients, which are essential for optimal health and are required for proper cell function and communication.

Body Balance and other liquid vitamins are easy to take and are a great option for people who dislike pills, especially children and seniors.

Boosting fertility through Diet

2009-06-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

Dietary Recommendations:

Go organic: It's quite possible that pesticides and herbicides found in non-organic food have a deleterious effect on our eggs. Without a doubt, food chemicals and additives frequently have estrogen-like synthetic substances and can occupy estrogen receptor sites and throw our hormonal balance off.

Eat alkaline foods: Vegetables, non-citrus fruits, sprouts, ceral grasses (wheatgrass and barley grass). Avoid acidic foods, such as sugar, meat, dairy products, and most grains as they create an acidic environment. An acidic cervical Ph can be hostile to sperm.

Get plenty of Essential Fatty Acids: good sources are fish and fish oil, COLD PRESSED oils such as flax-seed and pumpkin-seed oils, eggs, soy products, raw nuts and seeds. Dark-green leafy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, beets, carrots, kale, collards, cabbage, turnips, rutabagas, and brussel sprouts are also good choices.

Supplement your diet with a natural high-potency multi-vitamin and mineral complex: make sure it includes iron, folic acid, and B vitamins. Very important in conception are Vitamins A, C, E, B complex; zinc; and selenium.

Eliminate alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine.

Add more cruciferous vegetables (brussel sprouts, cabbage, broccoli) to your diet

Get plenty of good protein.

Avoid junk food.

Find out how Acupuncture can help sports injuries

2009-06-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture and Sports Medicine

By AMY Dickinson

Many of us in Boulder County have a passion for sports and outdoor activity, and for many of us, the primary factor for moving here in the first place. Being sidelined due to an injury can have tremendous effect on us, both physically and mentally. The goal of every athlete, whether we’re weekend warriors or elite athletes, is to get back to doing the sport that we love as quickly as possible. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can be a useful addition to your ‘gym bag’, and can keep you healthy and in the game.

Injury may occur as we push ourselves beyond our limits. In our fast-paced lifestyle, we frequently don’t have the time or the patience to allow ourselves to heal completely. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help you to recover more quickly by increasing the circulation of your body’s energy (Qi) and blood, and by encouraging your body to do what it does naturally- heal itself. By using Acupuncture and, if indicated, herbal therapy, you should recover faster and with less pain.

Despite the strange vocabulary, acupuncture is neither magic nor a folk-medicine. It is a scientific process that has evolved over thousands of years. Acupuncture uses fine needles (about the size of 3 of your hairs) to encourage the circulation of your body’s healing and nourishing energy (qi). We use the analogy of a plant and a hose- when there is a kink in the hose, nourishment will not flow, and the plant will suffer. Your nourishing qi operates under the same principle- without proper flow, the muscles, tendons, bones and ligaments will not receive proper nourishment. Signs and symptoms of this lack of nourishment (Qi deficiency or inadequate flow) include injuries which are slow to heal, swelling, bruising, stiffness, tendonitis, and sub-optimal performance.

As an athlete, you may experience sprain, strain, repetitive stress injuries, physical trauma, overexertion, overtraining, or emotional stress. All of these can be helped by improving the circulation of qi throughout your body. Chinese herbal therapy may also be recommended. External herbal therapy is applied directly on the injured tissue to promote circulation and therefore the healing of the injury. Internal herbal therapy may be recommended to address constitutional imbalances that may be either aggravating or slowing the healing of your injuries. Herbal therapy may also be used during the training period (without an injury) to address any health issues that may be preventing the athlete from performing optimally.

Chinese Medicine works well in conjunction with other therapies- an athlete need not choose between acupuncture and other therapies. It can be used in conjunction with massage therapy, personal training, and chiropractic. Progressively-minded Physical Therapists are finding that their patients PT regimens often go better when acupuncture is used adjunctively. Chinese Medicine can be a very useful addition to any athlete’s health care team.

Amy Dickinson comes from a long line of Sports Medicine Doctors, but she is the first to use Chinese Medicine. Her father was the Sports Medicine Doctor for the 1976 US Olympic Cross Country Ski Team. She likes integrating the precision of Western Medical Diagnosis with the long-standing wisdom of Chinese Medicine. She has been a ski instructor in Colorado, Alaska, and Japan.