Archive for Wellness Articles – Page 2

Generic drugs are medications that include the same active ingredient at the same dosage as a brand-name drug. The US Food and Drug Administration requires that generic drugs have exactly the same pharmacological effects, dosage, intended use, administration route, side effects, safety, risks, and strength as the brand-name drug.

 

Some people worry that because the generic version costs so much less than the brand-name drug, that the quality or effectiveness of the medication might be compromised in order to save money. However, the generic versions cost less not because of cutting corners, but because the manufacturer has not had to pay for researching, developing, and marketing a new medication. The bulk of the expenses for drug manufacturers come from research, development, and promotion of the drug, and companies that develop new drugs are given a patent. The patent usually lasts for 7 years and allows them to sell the drug exclusively until it expires. When patents near expiration, other manufacturers can request permission to create and sell generic forms of the medication. Since they don’t have the startup expenses of development, they can sell the drug less expensively. In addition, competition between various companies who manufacture generic versions can drive the price even lower.

 

It is a myth that generic medications are made in inferior facilities or that they are poorer in quality to brand name medicines. The FDA also regulates the facilities that make medications and all must meet the same stringent standards. In fact, many manufacturers make both generic and brand-name drugs, so a lot of the generic versions you may use are created in exactly the same facility as the brand name drugs.

There is also no evidence that there are any differences in rates of side effects between generic and brand name products.

 

Finally, there is no truth to the idea that generic medicines take longer to work, because the FDA requires that both kinds of medications work as fast and as effectively as the original product. The company making the drug must demonstrate that its medication delivers equal amounts of active ingredient within the same time frame as the brand-name product. They also must demonstrate bioequivalence, or that the product performs in the same manner as the original. The reason that some of the tablets or capsules in generic versions look different from name brand version is that US trademark laws require them to have different colors, flavors, or inactive ingredients.

 

Resources:

  • http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=46204
  • http://www.worstpills.org/public/page.cfm?op_id=47

 

0 Categories : Drugs, General

You can benefit from chiropractic care at any age. Because the birthing process – even with natural childbirth methods – can cause subtle injuries to the clavicle, collarbone, spine and neck, parents often bring their infants to their chiropractors for a checkup soon after they are born. Many chiropractors have received specialized training in pediatric care, and have been trained in how to assess these subtle problems and imbalances in ways that medical doctors and pediatricians have not.

Chiropractic care can also benefit children as they continue to grow. Spinal problems may result as the result of falls, or from long periods of time spent in cramped or uncomfortable positions, such as riding in car seats. This can result in many common disorders in children, such as persistent earaches, bed-wetting, colic, or headaches. These conditions have often been successfully treated via chiropractic care. In 2007, nearly 3% of American children were treated with chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation, making it one of the most common forms of complementary or alternative medicine used for children.

Chiropractic has been proven for decades to be one of the safest alternative health care methods, and of course safety is even more important when dealing with children. Spinal adjustments, when performed on infants or young children, involve very light, finger-tip movements. One or two pounds of pressure is all that is necessary to correct spinal structures that have become misaligned, because although it is easy for children’s spines to shift out of alignment, it is also easy to ease them back into place. The “popping” sound that is often heard when spinal joints are manipulated in adults is not always heard in children. There is rarely any pain or discomfort, and many children enjoy their visits to the chiropractor and look forward to subsequent visits.

So there is no reason why, as a parent, you should not consider chiropractic care for your infant or child, and there are many reasons why it may be wise to do so. The focus of chiropractic is, after all, to treat the “whole person” and, by keeping the spine and nervous system healthy, keeping the whole body healthy. This is as important in children as it is in adults.

It is important to note, however, that a chiropractor is not a replacement for your pediatrician, who is there to provide your children with medications and care in case of serious illness or injury. The chiropractor provides complementary care, focusing on wellness, integrity of the spine and the nervous system, and the development of a healthy immune system. You would not expect your medical doctor or pediatrician to perform a checkup on your children’s teeth; instead you’d take them to a dentist, who has had more specialized training. Similarly, chiropractors have had more specialized training that enables them to diagnose subtle imbalances in children’s spinal structures and restore them to balance with subtle, non-invasive adjustments.

Resources

http://www.acatoday.org/press_css.cfm?CID=3247

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Vitamin B5 (also known as pantothenic acid), is used in the conversion of food into energy and in the maintenance of healthy skin, hair and eyes, nervous function and digestive health.Provitamin B5 (Panthenol) is commonly used in a number of health-related products, as it is converted into vitamin B5 by the body’s normal metabolic processes.

Panthenol is used as a humectant (attracts and retains water), a moisturizer and emollient, and is widely used in cosmetics as well as in skin and hair care products. It creates a skin barrier, reducing the amount of water lost through the skin. It also improves skin texture, making it softer and more elastic, so is useful in treating dry, rough, scaly skin problems.

The mitochondria in the body’s cells use a combinaiton of B5 and coenzyme A to produce energy. The presence of vitamin B5 in the cells increases the production of ATP, the molecule that transports the energy that powers the body’s systems. Without adequate amounts of this vitamin, you may become tired, weak and listless.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lab and animal studies have shown that wounds heal more quickly, especially after surgery, with the use of vitamin B5, particularly when combined with vitamin C.

Vitamin B5 helps the body to utilize other vitamins as well, such as vitamin B2. It also allows the body to best utilize the cholesterol in the food you eat, reducing your level of “bad” LDL cholesterol and raising your “good” HDL cholesterol levels. Studies have also shown that vitamin B5 may help reduce dangerous triglycerides in the blood, which can lead to heart disease.

Vitamin B5 is found in the greatest abundance in organ meats, cauliflower, broccoli, yogurt, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, turnip greens and corn. However, in food sources it is a relatively unstable vitamin, and cooking, freezing or processing foods tends to destroy it. Processed grains, canned vegetables and frozen foods have shown a 21-70% loss in vitamin B5.

Though a vitamin B5 deficiency is rare, people with a poor diet or who have digestive problems are sometimes deficient.Supplementation has been shown to help in the treatment or prevention of a range of conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, burning foot syndrome and cataracts. Vitamin B5 supports the adrenal glands and can help to moderate stress hormones.

The recommended daily intake of vitamin B5 has been set at 5 mg for adults, and 5 to 7 mg for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

0 Categories : Chiropractic, General

Some people think chiropractors only treat back pain, but actually they are specialists in the entire musculoskeletal system. They do focus primarily on the spine and surrounding tissues, but the spine is intimately related to good functioning of the whole body. Chiropractors may treat back pain and spasms, sports injuries, headaches, and pregnancy pain. They are trained in a variety of non-invasive techniques and believe in the most natural healing possible.

How do you know if a chiropractor is right for you? Here are some conditions for which chiropractic treatment has been shown to be particularly effective.

  1. Joint pain. Pain in the back and other joints is one of the most common health complaints and causes the greatest number of missed work days for health reasons. Chiropractors specialize in treating back pain and have a wide variety of techniques to treat pain anywhere from the feet and ankles up to the neck.
  2. Headaches. In particular, migraine headaches can often be effectively treated by a chiropractor. While the exact origin of migraines remains a mystery, spinal manipulation has been shown to improve symptoms as much as a common prescription drug known as amitriptyline.
  3. Athletic injuries. Laser therapy is a common treatment for plantar fasciitis, a typical running injury, and it is commonly administered by a chiropractor. A soft tissue therapy known as the Active Release Technique is a popular treatment offered by chiropractors that can treat long-standing injuries to muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves and fascia.
  4. Pregnancy. A somewhat sudden addition of around 30 pounds to the average woman adds stress to the body, from the back to the ankles, knees and feet. It also results in greater spinal curvature in the lower back and changes to the pelvis. Spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy and therapeutic exercises have been shown to be effective in reducing pain during pregnancy, particularly lower back and groin pain.
  5. Whiplash. Whiplash is a common injury sustained after a motor vehicle accident. It results in pain in several areas of the body, as well as headaches and vision problems. Chiropractic treatment has been shown to be effective in treating whiplash through the use of spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and specific exercises for the affected areas.

Other things to consider when choosing the type of care you need for your injury is that chiropractors use drug-free approaches without surgery. They are a good option for many kinds of pain and won’t steer you towards drugs or operations, which should be last-resort treatments because of the risks involved. At the same time, chiropractors are not “anti-traditional medicine” and often collaborate with allopathic doctors as well as other health professionals such as acupuncturists and massage therapists in order to design the most effective treatment plan for their patients.

 

Resources

http://today.com/articles/200606/migraines-and-the-chiropractors-touch

 

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Your spine, or backbone, is the primary physical support for your body. The spine is composed of 33 separate vertebrae, which are flexible and permit standing, bending over, and twisting. The bony vertebrae encase and protect the spinal cord, which is connected directly to the brainstem. A healthy spine is flexible and strong, and it contributes to strong muscles and bones. However, injury, strain or disease can cause problems with the spine such as pain, inflammation and restricted movement.

The spine develops from infancy into adulthood, gradually adapting itself from a C-shape, which is suitable for crawling, to an S-shape, which is the natural shape for two-legged walking. The natural curves in the spine serve to cushion impact from movement, absorb shock, preserve balance, and allow range of motion.

The three main curves in the spine are known as the cervical curve (the neck region), the thoracic curve (the upper back) and the lumbar curve (the lower back). There are 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral and 4 coccygeal. The sacral and coccygeal are the lowest vertebrae in the spine, below the lumbar area. Good muscle tone is important to help maintain proper posture and spinal alignment. It is also important for us to put effort into maintaining proper posture by training our bodies to walk, stand, lie, and sit such that the lowest possible amount of strain is placed on our spine, muscles, and ligaments.

Twenty-four of the vertebrae in your spine are moveable. They are cushioned by intervertebral discs which act like coiled springs. They are fluid filled and, as we age, become more brittle, causing us to get shorter. Osteoporosis, a common condition related to aging, as well as injury and strain, can cause spinal discs to herniate or bulge. This condition can cause significant back pain.

Damage to the spinal cord can cause numbness and loss of motor function. Injury to the cervical area can cause tetraplegia (also known as quadriplegia), while injury to the thoracic or lumbar area may result in paraplegia, or loss of the use of the legs and trunk.

There are several common spinal disorders. Lordosis, also known as sway back, occurs when there is abnormal forward curvature of the lumbar spine. Those who have abnormal curvature of the thoracic curve have kyphosis, or hunchback. Scoliosis occurs when there is a mild side-to-side curvature in the spine. Slight curves of less than 20 degrees do not usually present health or medical problems. Moderate curves usually need treatment because they can significantly limit physical activity.

 

Resources:

 

http://www.mayfieldclinic.com/PE-AnatSpine.htm

www.spine-health.com

 

0 Categories : Chiropractic, General

The short answer to this question is, “It depends.”

For example, the number of recommended adjustments may depend on why you sought chiropractic care in the first place. Were you concerned with pain, or recovery from an injury, or did you seek care to promote your overall health and wellness? The national average when dealing with pain and injury is 20 to 22 adjustments per patient, per injury. When the initial pain or injury has been relieved and treatment moves more into the area of general wellness care and health maintenance, the number of adjustments is almost always a partnership between the chiropractor and the patients. They work together to determine overall goals and set up an appropriate treatment schedule.

Many patients find relief in their first visit and see considerable progress within a week or two of regular visits, and regular adjustments can become less necessary as your body stabilizes. Of course, this varies from patient to patient, depending on the nature of the injury and the stage of treatment they are in. In the first or acute stage, when the patient has first consulted a chiropractor, the primary goal may be to relieve pain and increase mobility, so several adjustments a week may be required to accomplish this.

However, the scar tissue and postural imbalance that can build up around spinal injuries can take some time to heal completely, so there may be a reconstructive or healing phase of treatment. This stage seeks to improve the strength and flexibility of soft tissue surrounding the area of the original injury. During this phase there are commonly fewer adjustments – from once a week to once a month. At first the patient may find in nearly every visit that their spine has slipped back out of adjustment and requires correction. When the spine starts holding its adjustments, however, treatment can be reduced to a check-up every few months.

The number of recommended adjustments may also vary depending on the nature of the services provided by the individual chiropractor. Some treatment approaches seek to correct problems in a few sessions, while others take a more long-term approach, constantly evaluating the patient’s progress and changing the treatment regimen accordingly to not just heal the immediate injury but develop a more healthy spine and lifestyle. Chiropractic care is to some extent an art form; there are many ways to adjust the spine, and many ways to determine whether the adjustment has been successful. This can depend on the chiropractor’s personal style, where they were educated, their experience, and many other factors.

To some extent the determination of how many adjustments you will need depends on you, your personal goals, and how much you want to benefit from chiropractic care. Some patients seek only resolution of pain or discomfort from an injury, and are not as interested in long-term therapies to improve their spinal and general health. Others choose to pursue treatment because they recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy spine, to prevent future injuries and increase their quality of life.

Resources:

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Biotin (also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H), is one of the water-soluble B-vitamins, necessary for a number of functions, including cell growth, keeping skin, hair and nails healthy, as well as maintaining a well-functioning neuromuscular system. It is also involved in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates and fats so they can be converted into energy.

One of the greatest advantages of biotin is that it has been shown to increase glucose tolerance and reduce insulin resistance, which is helpful for those with Type 2 diabetes. In studies performed on adults with Type 2 diabetes, it was found that supplementation with biotin reduced their blood sugar levels by half.

Though biotin can’t be absorbed topically through either the hair or skin (making shampoos and cosmetics that contain it a waste of money), taking biotin supplements internally is often advised for those who are suffering from brittle nails and hair breakage.

Biotin is a vitamin produced naturally by your body’s own intestinal bacteria, so a deficiency is not common, apart from those who drink alcohol excessively or eat raw eggs on a regular basis. One of the best sources of biotin is egg yolks, however, it is important to note that the body may not be able to absorb the biotin in an egg yolk if it is eaten with the white of the egg. Raw egg whites contain the glycoprotein avidin, which binds to biotin, preventing absorption. The prolonged consumption of raw or undercooked egg whites can lead to a biotin deficiency, but by cooking egg whites thoroughly the avidin is deactivated, leaving the biotin intact. Other good dietary sources of biotin are Swiss chard, liver, tomatoes, carrots, yeast and soy.

Some symptoms of biotin deficiency are skin problems, such as seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap in infants (a relatively common problem in which they develop a pale yellow or white crusty growth on the scalp), hair loss, brittle nails, depression, lethargy, lack of muscle tone and coordination, and muscle pain. Biotin has also been used to help treat peripheral neuropathy and Parkinson’s disease.

It is especially important that pregnant women get sufficient amounts of biotin, as it breaks down more quickly during pregnancy, and a deficiency in the first and third trimesters was found to be relatively common. Taking biotin supplements can alleviate this problem.

The recommended daily allowance for biotin in adults is 300 mcg per day, which will keep you from a deficiency and will provide you with healthy skin, hair and nails, in addition to helping prevent diabetes.

 

0 Categories : Nutrition

Chiropractic is recognized as one of the safest therapies you can use to treat joint pain, back and neck pain, headaches, and other conditions. Because no type of healthcare therapy is completely free of potential side effects, however, some adverse effects may occur.

Many patients feel relief immediately following a chiropractic spinal adjustment, but some experience mild aching or soreness in the spinal joints or muscles. This feeling is similar to muscle soreness after exercise. If this occurs, it is usually within the first few hours post-treatment and for most patients (74%) does not last longer than 24 hours after the treatment. An ice pack often reduces the symptoms of this more quickly. Spinal adjustments pose few serious risks, although rare complications include the possibility of a herniated disk or compression of the nerves in the lower spinal column.

Some headaches and neck pains can be treated through cervical manipulation, which are also known as neck adjustments. These treatments improve joint mobility in the neck, restore the normal range of motion, and reduce muscle spasm to relieve pressure and tension. Neck manipulation is known to be a safe procedure, but some patients may experience side effects for a few days after treatment. These side effects include headache, fatigue, or continuing pain.

At the extreme end of risks associated with cervical manipulation, there have been reports that have associated it with a certain kind of stroke: vertebrobasilar artery (VBA) stroke. The best evidence indicates that the incidence of such injuries associated with neck adjustments is extremely rare – about 1 case in 5.85 million manipulations. To put this risk into perspective, this type of injury usually occurs spontaneously, or it happens as a result of everyday activities such as looking up to watch fireworks, turning your head while driving or having your hair washed in a hair salon.

Chiropractic adjustments are safe when performed by licensed professionals trained and to deliver chiropractic care. When you visit your chiropractor, you should be very specific about your symptoms, and about any concerns you feel about any risks. This will help the doctor to offer the safest and most effective treatment for you. Depending on your condition and the specific problems being treated, the chiropractor can sometimes forego manipulation, and instead can recommend a treatment regimen of joint mobilization, therapeutic exercise, soft-tissue techniques, or other therapies.

Resources:

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Vitamin B12 (also known as cobalamin) is vital to the body’s proper functioning. It helps build and maintain healthy red blood cells, is involved in the production of DNA and RNA and is instrumental in maintaining a healthy nervous system and cell metabolism.

Because vitamin B12 can be stored in the liver for a number of years and we need just a small amount of it to remain healthy, symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency may not show up for a long time. Vegans sometimes find themselves with this deficiency, as animal products are the only food source of vitamin B12 in a form that can be easily utilized by humans. The elderly can also be at risk of deficiency, as our digestive systems have an increasingly difficult time with absorption of the vitamin as we age.

A lack of vitamin B12 can cause a number of problems, including depression, fatigue and memory problems. A severe deficiency can lead to nerve damage or pernicious anemia, a disease that occurs when the stomach becomes unable to produce intrinsic factor, a substance secreted by cells in the stomach, that allows the body to absorb B12.

Without B12 your bones can’t produce enough healthy red blood cells, instead producing large red blood cells in low numbers. Their large size makes it difficult for them to make their way our of the bones and into the bloodstream where they carry on the important work of getting oxygen to the rest of the body’s cells, causing fatigue and other problems.

Some symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Shortness of breath
  • Tingling in fingers or toes
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nervousness
  • Numbness

Supplementation with vitamin B12 can help reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration, heart disease (due to its ability to lower homocysteine levels), breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and male infertility.

Interestingly, neither plants nor animals make vitamin B12. Rather, it is made by various microorganisms, such as bacteria, molds, yeast and algae, that are then consumed by animals and produce the vitamin in their digestive tract.

There are a number of good dietary sources of vitamin B12, among them eggs, dairy products, beef, pork, chicken, fish and shellfish. Organ meats, clams and oysters are particularly high in the vitamin. Vegetarians and vegans should look for vitamin B12 supplements in the form of fortified cereals, nutritional yeast or spirulina.

0 Categories : Nutrition

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of a series of measures to determine the level of excess fat in the body. Although other measures such as hydrodensitometry (underwater weighing), skinfold measurements (using calipers) and magnetic resonance imaging can provide more accurate determinations of body fat, BMI can be useful in most cases.

How to Calculate Your BMI

Your BMI is simply determined by the ratio of your weight and height. More specifically, BMI is calculated using the following formula:

BMI = weight / (height)2

This formula uses the metric system, with weight in kilograms and height in meters. To calculate your BMI based on height in inches and weight in pounds, multiply the result by 703.

BMI = 703 x weight (lbs.) / (height [in.])2

Interpreting Your BMI

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) considers BMI scores for average individuals to be ranked as follows:

Condition BMI
Underweight Below 18.5
Normal 18.5-24.9
Overweight 25.0-29.9
Obesity 30.0 and above

It is important to note, however, that BMI scores may fail to properly estimate the level of body fat in certain individuals. Athletes and others with muscular builds, for example, may fall into the overweight category despite having near perfect physiques, while the elderly and those who have lost muscle mass may fall into the underweight category despite having excess body fat.

The other important thing to note is that BMI assessments vary by sex and age. BMI scores for boys are slightly lower than for girls (aged 7-16), and scores for women are slightly lower than for men (aged 18 and up).

Despite these caveats, for most people, the BMI is a simple and useful tool for determining disease risk due to excess fat.

Risk Factors Associated with High BMI

There are a number of risk factors linked to high BMI scores that put individuals at significant risk for diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, gall bladder disease and some types of cancer. These include:

  • High LDL cholesterol (considered “bad” cholesterol)
  • Low HDL cholesterol (considered “good” cholesterol)
  • High blood sugar
  • High triglycerides
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Smoking

How much BMI do I need to loss to see improvements?

It may seem that a significant amount of exercise is needed to lose weight but even a small drop of 5 to 10 percent body weight can help lower the risk for obesity related diseases. As with all exercise programs, care must be taken when starting up. Check with your doctor before you begin and discuss the fitness program you intend to start.

Depending how many additional risk factors you have, your doctor may advise a weight control program rather than a weight loss program. For dangerously high BMI scores, your doctor may advise more drastic measures, which may include surgery. However, for most individuals, a sensible fitness program and healthy diet that is incorporated into daily life and maintained in the long term can significant lower BMI scores and thus lower the chances for excess fat related disease.

References

  1. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Assessing Your Weight and Health Risk Website
    (Link: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/obesity/lose_wt/risk.htm)
  2. Halls.md, The BMI gap between men and women
    (Link: http://www.halls.md/bmi/gap.htm)
0 Categories : General

There can be a major difference in the nutrition of the vegetables you eat, depending on what form you eat them in. The vegetables supplying the most nutrients are generally the ones that are the freshest and least processed. Now what does that mean?

The nutrients in any vegetable begin to deteriorate as soon as it’s harvested, including those all-important cancer-fighting antioxidants. The sooner a vegetable is eaten after it’s picked, the more nutrients it has. Having a home garden is ideal, as you can simply walk out your door, pick what you need and plop it straight into the cooking pot or salad bowl. Of course, not everyone has the space or time for a garden, so what’s the next best thing?

If you have a nearby farmers’ market, the veggies from there are usually grown locally and are generally fresher than what you can get at the supermarket. Barring that, the next best choice is, surprisingly, frozen vegetables.

What most people don’t know is that frozen food can often be more nutritious for you than fresh, especially if the fresh variety has been transported over a long distance. If you’re living in New York and are eating fresh peas grown in California, those peas have endured a number of days in a truck before arriving at your market.

Also, any sugars in the vegetable begin to convert to starch from the moment it’s picked, which is why freshly picked corn straight from the farm is so much sweeter than the kind that’s been sitting in the supermarket for a few days. However, frozen peas and many other vegetables are generally flash frozen on the spot where they are harvested, preserving those nutrients.

Cooked vegetables are generally not as nutritious as raw, though if you do cook them be sure to do it only long enough make them tender. The longer they cook, the greater the nutrient loss. There are, however, some exceptions. Tomatoes, for example, provide greater amounts of lycopene when they are cooked than when eaten raw. Cooking breaks down the plant’s cell walls, releasing greater amounts of nutrients. Zucchini, carrots and broccoli are best eaten cooked for this reason.

Canned vegetables are generally lowest in nutrients, as so many vitamins are lost in processing under high heat. The water-soluble vitamins B and C and polyphenols are easily lost when canned or boiled. Researchers at the University of California found that between 85 and 95 percent of the vitamin C in canned peas and carrots were lost in processing. The vegetables containing fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D E and K can be steamed or boiled, however, without losing a great amount of nutrients.

Raw vegetables are generally best, but if you find eating raw veggies unappealing to the point where you avoid them, it’s fine to eat them lightly cooked. Better to get some healthy nutrients than none at all!

0 Categories : Nutrition

Doctors of Chiropractic are not licensed to write medical prescriptions or perform surgery in the United States. They rely instead on a variety of manual treatments, including spinal manipulation and mobilization, which are designed and selected to improve function and alleviate pain for their patients. The chiropractic field is based on treatment with as little use of medication as possible, and is defined by the National Chiropractic Association as ideally a “drug-free, non-surgical science.”

That said, most chiropractors recommend that their patients have a primary care physician, and they recognize the efficacy of medications to relieve extreme pain and other conditions. If medication is needed, many chiropractors work closely with their patients’ primary care physicians to determine which medicines may be needed to reduce pain or speed the healing process. If chiropractors are also licensed in a field such as homeopathy or naturopathy, they may recommend those types of remedies, or provide general nutritional counseling. Their ability to do this depends on regulations that vary widely from state to state in the U.S.

One state, New Mexico, has recently passed legislation that allows some chiropractors to prescribe medicines. This legislation was considered valuable to the public because the state contains many areas of low population in which the only medical professionals available are chiropractors. After completing a standardized course, these Advanced Practice chiropractors are allowed to prescribe medicines from a strictly regulated formulary. This program has provided access to these medicines to many residents of New Mexico who would otherwise have had to travel several hours to see a medical doctor. Whether this approach will be taken in other states is yet to be seen.

In many cases, chiropractic care is all the therapy that is needed to treat common problems such as lower back pain. Chiropractors are trained in how to perform the manipulations that correct these problems. However, if the problems are more serious or if concurrent conditions are present, chiropractic care may be complemented by other medical treatment. We certainly urge you to consult with your primary care provider in such cases, and to rely on their specialized training to determine if medication is needed.

Resources:

  • http://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=2205
  • http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic
  • http://willistonchiropractic.com/about-chiropractic/

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Flying presents many health challenges to frequent fliers. The overall stress, the lack of a consistent healthy diet, the extended periods of sitting, the effects of cabin air and the discombobulation of jet lag, all take their toll on the frequent flier.

To deal with the ever-present stress of flying, avoid the chemical (medication, alcohol, etc.) and aim for more spiritual/physical, such as meditation or deep relaxation. Although some airports offer lounges for frequent fliers, sometimes the best option is a pair of noise-cancelling headphones and a meditation tape.

Medical reports have shown that long periods of sitting are significantly detrimental to health and there have been cases where long-haul flights have caused fatal instances of deep-vein thrombosis due to prolonged sitting. Frequent fliers are well advised to stretch regularly, either by getting up and walking the isles or by performing in-seat stretches. These can include neck stretching (tilting ear to shoulder and slowly rolling the head forward and down towards the other ear), back stretching (holding the armrests while twisting the chest to the left and right) and shoulder/arm stretching (placing the palm of the right hand at the nape of the neck, holding the right elbow with the left hand with the left elbow facing upwards and pulling the right elbow gently to the left, and then repeat the procedure on the other side).

A balanced regular diet is essential for health, regardless of occupation, but can be a challenge in airports due to the demands of boarding times and the temptations of fast food. Avoid processed and packaged foods, opting instead for fresh fruit that can easily be brought onboard. Whenever possible, eat at airport establishments that offer freshly cooked meals with fresh ingredients.

Hydration is very important when flying since cabin air is often exceptionally dry. Drink lots of water even though this might increase your number of trips to the toilet. Think of your trips to the toilet as a plus as it gets you out of seat and gives you another chance to stretch. Avoid in-flight alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as these will exacerbate your dehydration. Do not use the tap water from aircraft restrooms, as these are not meant to be potable.

Jet lag requires preparation and post-flight management in order to minimize its effects. For those fliers who will be returning to their point of departure in a short time, maintaining the same sleeping schedule (as much as possible) is highly recommended. For those staying in the destination’s time zone for longer than a day or so, adapting to the new time zone early by using a light box can significantly improve recovery from jet lag. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which alter sleeping patterns, can help to reduce jet lag. Switch to the new time zone immediately on arrival and avoid thinking about the time back home.

As a frequent flier, be sure to treat yourself to any airport facilities that help reduce stress and care for the body in healthy ways (massages, quiet rooms, etc.) and avoid those that provide only short-term pain relief.

0 Categories : General

The importance of vitamin E in a balanced diet is unquestionable given that its deficiency leads to neuromuscular problems, anemia, retinopathy and immune system disorders. Some studies have even shown that a lack of vitamin E may be responsible for male infertility.

Vitamin E’s effects on human physiology have yet to be fully determined; however, studies have shown that it plays important roles in oxidation and neural protection. Most people’s diets include sufficient levels of vitamin E, and supplementing above and beyond the recommended amounts (approximately 15 mg/day for a healthy adult) can actually be harmful since vitamin E acts as an anticoagulant, which may cause bleeding problems. Vitamin E has also not been shown to affect mortality, age-related macular degeneration or heart disease. Despite its neuro-protective effects, there is conflicting scientific evidence concerning vitamin E’s effect on Alzheimer’s disease, and it is therefore supplementation is not currently recommended.

Although vitamin supplementation is essential for those suffering from vitamin deficiency, the best way to take vitamins is through a properly balanced diet. Good sources of vitamin E include leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, lettuce and collard greens, and fruits such as mangoes, avocados and papayas. The best sources, however, are from oils such as wheat-germ oil (where 1 tablespoon provides 135% of the RDA for vitamin E), sunflower oil (40.6%) and almond oil (35.3%).

Nuts as a whole (almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts and pistachios) provide excellent natural ways to supplement a diet low in vitamin E, although their fat content may be an issue for those on a fat/calorie restricted diet. Those suffering from peanut allergies may also be unable to take advantage of this source, although highly refined peanut oils are able to remove the allergens, making them ideal for the majority of those allergic to peanuts.

It is important to note that there are various forms of vitamin E, each of which has varying effects on human physiology. The alpha-tocopherol form of vitamin E (found in all of the above mentioned foods), however, is the only one that is currently accepted as meeting dietary needs.

Since most, if not all, sources of vitamin E require dietary fat for absorption, those individuals who are unable to absorb fat (such as those with liver disease, cystic fibrosis or stomach surgery) may be at significant risk for vitamin E deficiency and should consult their doctor about vitamin E supplementation.

Vitamin E forms an integral part of a balanced diet but must be taken with moderation. Consult your physician or nutritionist if you have any doubts about your intake or ability to absorb this crucial vitamin.

References

Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet (http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/5000/5554.html)

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin E (http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitamine#h3)

0 Categories : Nutrition

Chiropractic adjustments, also known as spinal manipulations, are a procedure in which a joint is moved past its usual range of motion in daily life. The purpose of chiropractic adjustment is to improve your body’s functioning and alleviate pain.

Adjustments are most commonly made to joints in your back, but also to joints of the neck or other parts of the body, such as the shoulders. You may be treated by a chiropractor in order to correct such conditions as:

  • Neck, back, shoulder, arm, hand, chest, leg, or foot pain and stiffness
  • Headaches
  • Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • Trauma, such as whiplash
  • Scoliosis
  • Sports injuries
  • Repetitive strain disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia

Moving the joint beyond its range of motion sounds painful, doesn’t it? However, the joint is not moved beyond the range of motion it is naturally designed to move in the body. You may feel pressure or mild discomfort, and the discomfort may be greater if there is significant inflammation or tension around the joint being treated. However, chiropractic adjustments should not be painful.

If you are new to chiropractic medicine, you may have a harder time relaxing during the procedure than more experienced patients. If you stiffen or resist the adjustment, you may feel some discomfort. However as you get used to the procedures you should find not only that the discomfort decreases, but that you may feel relief and a sense of well-being after the adjustment I completed.

During the procedure, you will be placed in a certain position to treat the affected areas. Usually you will be lying face down on a padded table. There may be popping or cracking noises during the adjustment, as the joint is moved. These noises are the result of the release of tiny pockets of gas during the procedure, which is completely normal. In fact, it’s the same thing that occurs when someone cracks their knuckles.

After the procedure, you may feel some soreness or aching in the muscles or spinal joints. If it occurs, this kind of discomfort usually happens within the first few hours of treatment. It should not last longer than 24 hours (and if it does, be sure to contact your chiropractor for assistance). If you like, you can place an ice pack on the affected area which should help reduce the symptoms and help you recover more quickly.

In order to be sure you have as pain-free a treatment as possible, be sure you choose a board-certified chiropractor with good patient references. An experienced, competent practitioner will be able to give you the most effective treatment possible with the least amount of discomfort.

References

Chiropractic Adjustment: What you can Expect. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chiropractic-adjustment/MY01107

Reactions Following a Chiropractic Adjustment. http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/reactions-following-a-chiropractic-adjustment

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Chiropractic adjustments are the foundation of chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors use adjustments to correct mild vertebral subluxations, or dislocations and misalignments of the bones of the spine (vertebrae). The word “subluxation” has its origins in the Latin words “luxare” (to dislocate) and “sub” (mild). Subluxations may put pressure on or irritate nerves and blood vessels in the spine, and cause musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.

Adjustments, also known as “spinal manipulation”, involve the use of a certain amount of controlled force, applied in a specific direction, to a joint that is not moving properly. Adjustments are usually carried out manually by the doctor, or by using an instrument. Chiropractic adjustments help return your vertebrae to their natural position and range of motion, with the goal of restoring health and normal functioning. In addition to restoring joint mobility, adjustments can also allow healing of tissue injuries involving inflammation and pain.

Before carrying out an adjustment, your chiropractic doctors will thoroughly evaluate your case through collection of a health history, physical examinations, laboratory tests, imaging (such as X-rays) and other procedures. During the adjustment procedure itself, you may be lying down on a specially designed chiropractic table. Your chiropractor will apply the adjustment in a controlled, sudden manner, pushing your joint beyond its normal range of motion.

There are over 96 individual chiropractic maneuvers your doctor may choose from for your adjustment. Factors in this decision include how much force is needed, where in the body the adjustment is needed, the position of both the chiropractor and the patient also contribute to the selection of the best type of adjustment for your particular condition.

Adjustments may be used to treat back pain, neck pain, or pain in other areas of the body such ass arms, legs, and shoulders. The procedure rarely causes pain; however if there is recent trauma or if you are new to chiropractic medicine there may be some discomfort. The popping and cracking noises that occur during adjustments are due to the release of gas bubbles between the joints, and these sounds are perfectly normal. It is a similar phenomenon as when knuckles are cracked.

In many cases, chiropractic care is all that is needed to treat a certain kind of problem, such as lower back pain. However, adjustments may be complemented by other medical treatment if concurrent conditions are present.

Resources

http://www.acatoday.org/

http://www.chiro.org/acc/What_is_Subluxation.shtml

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chiropractic-adjustment/MY01107

http://www.mdguidelines.com/chiropractic-adjustments-and-manipulations

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Some of us feel that sleep is a luxury. Demanding jobs mean getting up early, and for some of us going to bed early feels like you’ve lost the day, so we compensate by sleeping less. But is that good enough? The oft-cited optimal level of sleep for an adult is the magic eight hours. However, individuals vary in their sleep needs from as little as five hours to as much as ten hours per night. Feeling drowsy during the day might mean you’re not getting enough winks, so how can you tell if you’re sleeping too much or too little?

A recent study conducted at the University of Westminster has concluded that there are people who are at their best and who are ready for action first thing in the morning, and another group who just cannot do mornings well. This may seem obvious, but why are some people early birds, and others night owls? The group who were awake early in the morning was found to have higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, than those who prefer to sleep in. The results of this study indicate that there may be a physiological difference between early risers and late sleepers. The difference in cortisol levels may also contribute to different temperaments between the different sleep groups. Those who awaken early in the morning, tend to be busier and more concentrated, but are also angrier and have less energy at the end of the day than their late-rising counterparts. In late-riser group, people are more likely to be relaxed and less busy. Cortisol is a hormone known to affect both mood and concentration. While it’s hard to specify an ideal time to get up in the morning, if you’re feeling stressed there is an increased chance you’ll feel better if you add an extra half an hour of sleep to your night.

What about the effects of sleep deprivation? It is well known that sleep deprivation can be dangerous, especially if you are driving or using heavy machinery. The effect on driving may be as dangerous as driving under the influence. Not sleeping enough can also suppress your immune system and increases your perception of pain.

Most scientists believe eight hours of sleep is a safe amount and is enough to function comfortably. If you’re alert during the day, then chances are you’re sleeping enough. However if you feel a dip during the day, then even a 10- or 15-minute nap can make a big difference in your concentration and performance.  If you can’t get enough sleep on a certain day, you can always make it up afterwards. Sleep longer by going to bed earlier, sleep in on the weekend or even take a nap to help to replenish the sleep debt left. In general, however, try to have a regular sleep schedule to keep your body as rested and ready-to-go as possible.

References

Clow A, Hucklebridge F, Stalder T, Evans P, Thorn L. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2010 Sep;35(1):97-103. Epub 2009 Dec 22.

Sleep Requirements.  Available at: http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/sleep-requirements

Getting Enough Sleep.  Available at: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/womenshealth/features/gettingenoughsleep.htm

0 Categories : General

Water is the elixir of life, but do we get enough of it? Many people think that substituting sodas, coffee and juice for water is enough to keep us hydrated and healthy, but nothing can beat the original and the best – water.

Our bodies are made up of 43-75% water, and it’s an essential component of our health. The wide range in percentages comes from measuring different populations ranging from newborns (~75%) to obese people (~45%), with normal adult hydration at about 57-60%.

We can survive a month without food, but we’ll die after a week without water. The body is able to absorb many nutrients and salts better thanks to water’s ability to transport these nutrients and oxygen to our body’s cells and organs.  Detoxifying is vitally important to our health, since it cleans our bodies of impurities. The best way to excrete these impurities is through urine and sweat – both of which depend on our water intake. Upping your water intake may help to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. The kidneys filter our waste products through the blood and out via urination. If the concentration of salt in our urine is high, and our water content low, this increases the risk of kidney stone formation. By drinking more water, this concentration of salts is reduced.

We are at risk of sunstroke if our bodies become dehydrated. When we sweat, this cools our body down. If dehydrated, the body cannot sweat and overheats, which can damage the body’s internal organs.

If you suffer from high blood pressure, maybe it’s your water intake that is the problem. When our bodies excrete and lose more than the optimal amount of liquid, our blood vessels constrict, which can cause our blood pressure to increase. If blood pressure is increased by a deficiency in water, this may also increase the risk of heart disease. Because the constricted blood vessels cause an increase in blood pressure, the heart works harder to compensate for the reduced volume of blood. Lower blood pressure and greater consumption of water help lower stress on the heart.

What’s more, drinking more water can help you stay younger looking. Drinking a lot of water helps keep the skin clean and fresh-looking by removing impurities through sweating. Water also helps to keep the skin hydrated, which means younger looking skin – sagging and wrinkled skin is usually a sign of dehydration. Drinking water also cuts hunger pangs and acts as a good filler. Water has zero calories, so consider trading in your sugary drinks and juices to help control your weight.

If increasing your water intake seems like a chore, why not add lemon or mint to your bottle to make it taste better? Eat more fruits rich in water such as watermelon, and try to drink water more regularly over the course of the day.  Having a glass of water or water bottle near you during the day has been shown to increase water consumption without effort.

References

[1] http://www.jbc.org/content/203/1/359.full.pdf Accessed October 2011

[2] http://thetaoofgoodhealth.com/10-health-reasons-why-you-should-drink-more-water-4/ Accessed October 2011

[3] http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/generalhealth/ghea5288.html Accessed 2011

0 Categories : Nutrition

Chiropractic BioPhysics® is a more systematic, comprehensive and scientific approach to chiropractic medicine. One of the main goals for overall health is attaining improved postural alignment, and the chiropractic techniques behind CBP® can help to attain that. But what exactly is Chiropractic BioPhysics®?

The name originates from the concept of applying physics to biology in chiropractic medicine. CBP® practitioners still use standard chiropractic joint adjustments, but they also implement specific techniques such as Mirror Image®, meaning opposite position, postural adjustments, spinal exercises and tractions. The promise of CBP® is a chiropractic treatment offering longer-term and more permanent relief for patients. The technique has taken 25 years to develop, and was started in the 1980s by Dr. D. Harrison. Currently, CBP® is the fastest growing chiropractic technique, mostly due to its foundation in scientific research and its highly cited success rate in curing various ailments and illnesses associated with spinal misalignment.

The procedure was developed so that the alignment of the spine and posture can be treated in a non-invasive manner. Using CBP® can help, not only in correcting faulty alignments, but also in reversing previous problems associated with spinal misalignment. The ultimate goal is permanent rehabilitation.

In order to practice as a CBP® chiropractor, the doctors must complete five Chiropractic BioPhysics® seminars and pass both a written and practical examination. Once they have met the above criteria, they become distinguished fellows. This extra training is one of the ways a CBP® chiropractor differs from a normal one. A chiropractor using the CBP® method is able to act both as a regular chiropractor and as a specialist with a broader outlook. Chiropractic BioPhysics® is strongly evidence-based. Treatment outcomes from previous patients are tabulated into guidelines that inform the treatment plans of new patients.

When working with a CBP® chiropractor expect to see lots of rulers, protractor, charts and diagrams. Be accurately depicting the current spinal position and the forces acting on it, the doctor can develop a set of corrective exercise to restore proper alignment. For example, if you carry your head too far forward, the CBP® chiropractor may have you work on strengthening the muscles in the back of the neck so that they can exert a stronger pulling force. If you carry your body weight too far to forward or to one side (not directly over your heels), the CBP® chiropractor will have you do mirror image-style exercises over-exaggerating the position in the opposition direction in hopes of training the body to adopt a neutral, centered position.

Chiropractic BioPhysics® is where physics meets anatomy. It is a new and promising field for systematically correcting posture based on an understanding of the multiple forces acting on your spine.

References

[1] http://cbppatient.com/learn-chiropractic-care/introduction-to-chiropractic/ Accessed October 2011

[2] http://www.idealspine.com/ Accessed October 2011

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Fibromyalgia is a condition with no known medical cure. It is characterized by chronic and debilitating pain all over the body, and heightened pain under pressure.  Its symptoms can cause patients to suffer from widespread pain, poor sleep, chronic tiredness and even depression. The causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. Some theories cite that the patient’s low pain threshold may be attributed to increased sensitivity in the brain to pain signals. [1] Other possible causes could be a genetic predisposition [2]; stress; the disruption of normal dopamine related neurotransmission [3]; abnormal serotonin levels [4] and deficient growth hormone secretion [5]. While there is currently no cure for the condition, its symptoms can be alleviated by chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic treatment uses manipulation, which is a technique involving short and quick thrusts to the vertebrae in the spine to shift vertebrae back into their correct position.  The treatment found in chiropractic care is based on the idea that illnesses and pain in the body arise from misalignments in the body’s skeletal structure. In order for the body to function healthily, the spine and the skeletal structure need to be set in the correct position – otherwise problems like chronic pain can arise.

Fibromyalgia causes numerous, tender points to occur all over the body, including back and neck pain and leg cramps. As a result of these symptoms, sufferers of fibromyalgia have sought treatment from chiropractors. Because the adjustments made during treatment help to restore the posture of the skeletal system, many sufferers find that treatment can help to reduce a significant amount of pain. Some fibromyalgia sufferers experience a condition known as cervical spinal stenosis, which results in compression of the spine’s meninges, which are the coverings of the upper spine. This can result in debilitating pain all over the body. A chiropractor may be able to help with cervical spinal stenosis by adjusting the spine around the head and neck, releasing this compression and eliminating the symptoms attributed to it.[6]

The effectiveness of chiropractic care has been studied in sufferers of fibromyalgia [6], where patients were asked which method of treatment, medical or alternative, helped the best with their condition. The majority voted for chiropractic treatment. In addition, the effectiveness was tested by using spinal manipulation to relieve fibromyalgia symptoms, and after 15 treatments, results concluded that patients had reduced fatigue and pain as well as improved sleep quality.

While fibromyalgia sufferers continue to look for a cure, it is great to know that there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and live a more normal life. If you or someone you know suffers from undiagnosed chronic pain or fibromyalgia, please share this article with them and encourage them to get a chiropractic consultation.

References

[1] http://edition.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/fibromyalgia/DS00079.html Accessed September 2011

[2]  Buskila D, Sarzi-Puttini P (2006). “Biology and therapy of fibromyalgia. Genetic aspects of fibromyalgia syndrome”. Arthritis Res Ther. 8 (5): 218. doi:10.1186/ar2005. PMC 1779444. PMID 16887010.

[3] Cervenka S, Pålhagen SE, Comley RA et al. (August 2006). “Support for dopaminergic hypoactivity in restless legs syndrome: a PET study on D2-receptor binding”. Brain 129 (Pt 8): 2017–28.doi:10.1093/brain/awl163. PMID 16816393. Retrieved 2008-05-21.

[4] Moldofsky H, Scarisbrick P, England R, Smythe H (1975).”Musculoskeletal symptoms and non-REM sleep disturbance in patients with “fibrositis syndrome” and healthy subjects”. Psychosom Med 37(4): 341–51. PMID 169541. Retrieved 2008-05-21.

[5] Anderberg UM, Liu Z, Berglund L, Nyberg F (1999). “Elevated plasma levels of neuropeptide Y in female fibromyalgia patients”. Eur J Pain 3 (1): 19–30.

[6] http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalgia_chiropractic.html Accessed September 2011

0 Categories : Chiropractic