Life Wellness Center

Quote of the Week:

2012-01-23T11:00:00.001-06:00

“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.”~ Anne Bradstreet

Topic of the Week: You May Not Have a Cold. You May Have Sinusitis!

2012-01-23T10:59:00.001-06:00

Sinus infections – or sinusitis – affect about 35 million people in North America every year, and it accounts for more antibiotic prescriptions than any other health problem. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) reports that annual expenditures on sinusitis top nearly $6 billion!

It is a costly health problem, but it is also one that can be tricky to diagnose. How can you tell if you have a common cold or sinusitis? In this issue, we look at what defines sinusitis, its causes and treatments.

Sinusitis has symptoms that are similar to those of a common cold or allergies. In fact, you are more likely to develop sinusitis after contracting a cold. If it does not improve after seven days or actually worsens, then your cold may actually be a sinus infection.

Sinusitis is classified as either acute or chronic. An infection in the acute stage lasts up to eight weeks, while chronic is classified as any time beyond eight weeks. Regardless of classification, an infection in the sinuses causes inflammation, pressure and pain in the affected areas and can make daily life miserable.

Symptoms include mucous discharge and blockage, headache, fever, facial and teeth pain, bad taste in the mouth, and coughing to expel mucous. Sinusitis may be the result of a virus, bacteria or fungus, and each may require a different medical treatment.

Although not a frequent occurrence, nasal growths (polyps) or a deviated septum may also increase the risk of sinusitis.

Home Treatment Options
You may help alleviate symptoms by implementing the following:
• Drink plenty of fluids. This will thin the mucous and reduce nasal blockage.
• Breathe steam – to keep nasal passages moist. Take a shower, bath or fill a bowl with hot water and inhale to get sufficient amounts of steam into your sinus cavities.
• Decongestant tablets and sprays can reduce nasal blockage and ease pressure. However, extended use of sprays for more than three days may actually cause rebound congestion. As an alternative, you can try saltwater nose drops to keep your nose clear.
• Over-the-counter pain medications can reduce aches and fever. You can also use a hot, wet towel or warm gel compress and apply to your face over the sinus areas for pain relief and pressure reduction. Leave the compress on the skin for ten minutes, and then repeat several times throughout the day.

Another natural solution to preventing and treating sinusitis is nasal cleansing, also known as nasal irrigation. The practice of cleaning the nasal passages to promote good health has long been a part of India’s ancient ayurvedic medicine system. Cleansing this area of excess mucous not only keeps your nasal airway clear of proinflammatory substances, but it reduces the need for medication. A study on nasal irrigation using saline confirms it helps reduce symptoms and improves quality of life for sinusitis sufferers.

A common way of irrigating the nose is to use a neti pot, which has a long spout that you insert into the nose and let saline solution flow through the area. Neti pots and similar devices are available at many pharmacies and natural health stores.

Concerns About Antibiotics
If home treatments are not effective, you may need antibiotics. However, the use of antibiotics is not without controversy. Many medical experts claim antibiotics are prescribed too often for this condition – possibly because it is difficult to discern if sinusitis is caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus. Viral sinusitis can create conditions that allow bacterial infections to develop. However, antibiotics are effective only against bacteria – not viruses or fungi. The overuse of these drugs can lead to antibiotic resistance and the creation of superbugs.

Some research also questions the value of antibiotics. In a sinusitis study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers noted that antibiotics and a topical steroid were no more effective at treating symptoms than a placebo. They remarked, "Our main conclusions are that among patients with the typical features of acute bacterial sinusitis, neither an antibiotic nor a topical steroid alone or in combination are effective in altering the symptom severity, the duration, or the natural history of the condition.”

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Alternating Oblique Crunches

2012-01-23T10:46:00.001-06:00

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie on back with knees and hips bent to 90 degrees and feet elevated. Both hands should be behind head/neck with elbows out to sides.

Exercise: Keeping hands behind neck, curl forward so shoulders are just off floor. Then, bring right elbow across body to touch left knee. As left knee is brought up toward chest, straighten right leg. Pause, then bring left elbow across body to touch right knee, straightening left leg. Alternate sides for 10-15 repetitions per side.

How To Make 2012 Your Best Year Ever!

2012-01-19T15:42:00.003-06:00

Join Life Wellness Center's very own Dr. Ridge Pidde along with Puravida Fitness owner Erik Peacock and other health and wellness leaders in our community for a life-changing event. Follow the link for details: http://www.lakevillefitwomen.com/

Breakfast of Champions

2012-01-19T15:41:00.001-06:00

(This newsletter issue for January 2012 is brought to you by Life Wellness Center)

We all know we should eat a "good breakfast". Most us can still hear the voice of our third grade teacher ringing in our ears - "Did everyone eat a good breakfast today?" - the kindly, inquiring tone usually accompanied by a penetrating stare. But as unlikely as it was then that most kids ate a good breakfast, it is even more unlikely now. For those of us who are adults, breakfast is frequently a mere cup of coffee. Or possibly a glass of orange juice and a bagel or a muffin. Maybe a "breakfast sandwich" at a fast-food chain. Regardless, not many of our choices can be construed as nutrition that will support us in being the champions that we want to be.

Everyone knows why a good breakfast is important. First, your gas tank is near empty. If you don't refuel, you'll be running on fumes. Every cell in your body requires high-quality nutrition. Most especially, your brain cells and your muscle cells require plenty of glucose. If you don't have enough energy in your fuel tank, your body feels sluggish and your brain feels as if it's trying to swim upstream against a strong current. Worse, you don't have enough cellular energy to sweep away the metabolic end-products that build up from normal functioning. You can't do maintenance and toxins accumulate. Now you need even more energy to deal with the toxic build-up and a vicious circle develops. You feel run-down, you develop muscle tension and a headache, and your whole day starts to deteriorate. This scenario is typical for many people and it continues day after day. Projecting into the future, the long-term results include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and overweight/obesity. What can be done?

For those of us who recognize a problem and are willing to take action on our own behalf, the first step is to be willing to actually eat a nutritious breakfast. We want food that will help us be healthy, rather than "food" that instead adds to our health-related problems. If we choose to take such action, we can follow several easy guidelines. An energy-filled breakfast could consist of whole-grain cereals, fruit, cheese, eggs, nuts, and even meat. Not all of this, certainly, but enough to make a breakfast consisting of 300 or 400 calories. The prospect seems daunting, particularly when breakfast has been an afterthought for many years. But the process actually becomes easy once you get used to having this meal.

For example, two slices of whole-grain toast plus a tablespoon of peanut butter and a tablespoon of organic jam makes a great breakfast. You've got approximately 300 calories and you're combining protein with complex carbohydrates. Or two scrambled eggs and a side of 1/2 cup of steel-cut oatmeal (that you've prepared overnight) with a tablespoon of honey mixed in. This meal, too, provides approximately 300 calories and an energy-producing combination of protein and complex carbohydrates. You get the idea - a creative, attractive small meal that is composed of complex carbohydrates and protein. You've now consumed an energy source that will be "slow-burning" and provide high-quality fuel for the next three to four hours. You're ready to have a great morning of productive activity.

Being healthy takes work. It doesn't happen by chance. Having a good breakfast, a "breakfast of champions", is a key component of this overall, life-affirming process.

Good Health, Nutrition, and Chiropractic Care

For a lucky few, good health just happens. A fortunate combination of genetics and circumstances allows a small number of persons to enjoy high levels of health without having to expend any effort. But for most of us, good health depends on the things we do to maintain this precious resource.

Getting enough rest, doing regular vigorous exercise, and eating high-quality, nutritious food are the cornerstones of good health. Regular chiropractic care is an important part of the mix. Regular chiropractic care helps keep the body's nerve system healthy. This master system helps keep all the other systems functioning at peak levels, and the result is overall health and well-being. In this way, regular chiropractic care helps support all the other action steps we're taking to ensure top levels of health.

Quote of the Week:

2012-01-16T08:30:00.002-06:00

“Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else”~ Tom Stoppard

Exercise of the Week: Lumbar stabilization (stage 3)

2012-01-16T08:29:00.000-06:00

Plank Position

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie on stomach. Then begin by propping upper body up onto elbows/forearms, with hands together in praying position. Engage inner abdominal muscles by brining belly button inward. Keeping spine steady, lift hips and knees so you are resting on toes, creating a straight line from ankles to shoulders.

Exercise: Keeping spine steady, lift one leg 6-8 inches. Hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 1) If this is relatively easy, try bringing that leg horizontally out as far as you can, keeping torso steady. Hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 2) Switch legs and repeat. Perform 3-5 sets of this exercise per side. Be careful not to strain lower back.

Topic of the Week: VACCINATIONS OR CHIROPRACTIC? WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

2012-01-16T08:27:00.004-06:00

According to the germ theory of disease, humans get sick when they are exposed to pathogens like bacteria and viruses - especially if they are allowed to multiply uncontrollably inside them. Fortunately, we have an inborn selfdefense system to take care of this problem which we call the immune system. This system detects and destroys any foreign substances that make their way inside the body, under the direction of the brain and the nervous system.

Whenever a person is weak or vulnerable such as the diseased or the very young or old, they are more susceptible to harboring infections, as their immune system also becomes weak. If these people get infected with bacteria or viruses, the results can be fatal.

HOW CAN WE HELP BOOST OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?
Medical scientists have observed, once the human body has been exposed to a certain pathogen, it will be ‘primed’ to respond better to that same substance if it encounters it a second time. This is the principle that led to the development of vaccinations: when a person receives a vaccination shot, what they are actually getting is a small dose of the actual pathogen, or parts of its structure that our immune system will react to.

Researchers theorize that if you get a small enough dose, you won’t get sick, but afterwards your immune system will be more ‘ready’ to protect you if exposed to the same bug again later in life. Unfortunately, what researchers did not predict was the negative side-effects of this well intentioned preventative treatment.

First, people who are injected with vaccines can actually get sick from them! There is an entire website dedicated to the adverse effects related to vaccines - which receives approximately 30,000 submissions annually. Some of the more serious reports they receive include: allergic reactions, fevers, seizures, or even death.

Second, there appears to be an increase in a number of other childhood diseases since the inception of national vaccination programs. Reports have linked the use of mercury-laden vaccines with a significant increase in the number of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.

Other diseases, like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, typically uncommon in people less than ten years of age, appear to be substantially higher in children vaccinated for measles than in un-vaccinated children. Even Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), a devastating and mysterious condition resulting in millions of deaths in North America, has been associated with the DPT vaccination: in one alarming study, two-thirds of those infants who died from SIDS had received their pertussis vaccine, with 26% dying within 3 days after their shots -and 13% within the first 24 hours!

Third, is it really effective? When we look at the death rates from many of the diseases that vaccinations have been developed for, we see that there was already a steady and significant decline before the vaccination was introduced on a massive scale. Also, when we compare numbers in the U.K. between certain diseases (measles) to others that have never been vaccinated for (scurvy), the steady decline is very similar, suggesting that vaccination is not the only reason for the eradication of these diseases, and if an outbreak of measles occurs in highly vaccinated populations, those fully vaccinated children can still contract the disease! In one recent report of an outbreak in the US, there were 9 laboratory confirmed cases of measles, out of which 7 were vaccinated previously for the disease.

HOW CAN CHIROPRATIC HELP INSTEAD?
The immunity-boosting powers of chiropractic have often been demonstrated, with the most impressive of these documented by Walter Rhodes in his account of the influenza epidemic of 1918 in North America.

According to the medical statistics from the era, many people who were treated by chiropractors fared much better than those treated by MDs with respect to the flu. In one impressive account, “In Davenport, Iowa, 50 medical doctors treated 4,953 cases, with 274 deaths. In the same city, 150 chiropractors including students and faculty of the Palmer School of Chiropractic treated 1,635 cases with only one death.”

Chiropractic is an all-natural health care solution that bases its entire philosophy on helping to improve the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Chiropractors accomplish this feat by removing irritation and interference in the nervous system caused by vertebral subluxations - thus allowing for proper regulation and control of all systems in the body, including the immune system.

Vaccinations - the benefits versus the risks - is a difficult subject faced by every parent. We recommend you do your own research, including a more thorough discussion about this topic with your Chiropractor, so that you get all the help you need to decide what is best for your child.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Quote of the Week:

2012-01-09T08:30:00.001-06:00

“Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else”~ Tom Stoppard

Exercise of the Week: Lumbar stabilization (stage 3)

2012-01-09T08:29:00.001-06:00

Plank Position

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie on stomach. Then begin by propping upper body up onto elbows/forearms, with hands together in praying position. Engage inner abdominal muscles by brining belly button inward. Keeping spine steady, lift hips and knees so you are resting on toes, creating a straight line from ankles to shoulders.

Exercise: Keeping spine steady, lift one leg 6-8 inches. Hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 1) If this is relatively easy, try bringing that leg horizontally out as far as you can, keeping torso steady. Hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 2) Switch legs and repeat. Perform 3-5 sets of this exercise per side. Be careful not to strain lower back.

Topic of the Week: VACCINATIONS OR CHIROPRACTIC? WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

2012-01-09T08:28:00.000-06:00

Whenever a person is weak or vulnerable such as the diseased or the very young or old, they are more susceptible to harboring infections, as their immune system also becomes weak. If these people get infected with bacteria or viruses, the results can be fatal.

HOW CAN WE HELP BOOST OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?
Medical scientists have observed, once the human body has been exposed to a certain pathogen, it will be ‘primed’ to respond better to that same substance if it encounters it a second time. This is the principle that led to the development of vaccinations: when a person receives a vaccination shot, what they are actually getting is a small dose of the actual pathogen, or parts of its structure that our immune system will react to.

Researchers theorize that if you get a small enough dose, you won’t get sick, but afterwards your immune system will be more ‘ready’ to protect you if exposed to the same bug again later in life. Unfortunately, what researchers did not predict was the negative side-effects of this well intentioned preventative treatment.

First, people who are injected with vaccines can actually get sick from them! There is an entire website dedicated to the adverse effects related to vaccines - which receives approximately 30,000 submissions annually. Some of the more serious reports they receive include: allergic reactions, fevers, seizures, or even death.

Second, there appears to be an increase in a number of other childhood diseases since the inception of national vaccination programs. Reports have linked the use of mercury-laden vaccines with a significant increase in the number of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.

Other diseases, like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, typically uncommon in people less than ten years of age, appear to be substantially higher in children vaccinated for measles than in un-vaccinated children. Even Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), a devastating and mysterious condition resulting in millions of deaths in North America, has been associated with the DPT vaccination: in one alarming study, two-thirds of those infants who died from SIDS had received their pertussis vaccine, with 26% dying within 3 days after their shots -and 13% within the first 24 hours!

Third, is it really effective? When we look at the death rates from many of the diseases that vaccinations have been developed for, we see that there was already a steady and significant decline before the vaccination was introduced on a massive scale. Also, when we compare numbers in the U.K. between certain diseases (measles) to others that have never been vaccinated for (scurvy), the steady decline is very similar, suggesting that vaccination is not the only reason for the eradication of these diseases, and if an outbreak of measles occurs in highly vaccinated populations, those fully vaccinated children can still contract the disease! In one recent report of an outbreak in the US, there were 9 laboratory confirmed cases of measles, out of which 7 were vaccinated previously for the disease.

HOW CAN CHIROPRATIC HELP INSTEAD?
The immunity-boosting powers of chiropractic have often been demonstrated, with the most impressive of these documented by Walter Rhodes in his account of the influenza epidemic of 1918 in North America.

According to the medical statistics from the era, many people who were treated by chiropractors fared much better than those treated by MDs with respect to the flu. In one impressive account, “In Davenport, Iowa, 50 medical doctors treated 4,953 cases, with 274 deaths. In the same city, 150 chiropractors including students and faculty of the Palmer School of Chiropractic treated 1,635 cases with only one death.”

Chiropractic is an all-natural health care solution that bases its entire philosophy on helping to improve the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Chiropractors accomplish this feat by removing irritation and interference in the nervous system caused by vertebral subluxations - thus allowing for proper regulation and control of all systems in the body, including the immune system.

Vaccinations - the benefits versus the risks - is a difficult subject faced by every parent. We recommend you do your own research, including a more thorough discussion about this topic with your Chiropractor, so that you get all the help you need to decide what is best for your child.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Pushing Back the Clock

2012-01-05T16:15:00.003-06:00

Many people experience lapses in memory as they get older. Every so often, it may become frustratingly difficult or even temporarily impossible to recall a particular word or a specific person's name. A person might commit a phone number to memory and then immediately forget it. Of course, everyone is familiar with the sinking feeling associated with the critical question "where did I put my keys?" For most people these glitches are minor, nothing more. However, for a certain percentage of older persons (approximately 10-20%), these lapses represent mild cognitive impairment.1 And for a proportion of these people, mild cognitive impairment will progress to Alzheimer's disease.

Normal aging can include instances of subtle forgetfulness such as having difficulty recalling words, not remembering where you put an important document, or leaving a full milk carton on the kitchen counter overnight. But the memory loss associated with mild cognitive impairment represents an actual condition, i.e., an actual disease entity. Such memory loss is more prominent. People forget important information such as meaningful telephone conversations, recent events that would normally be of interest, and dates and times of appointments.

In the early stages it may be challenging to differentiate mild cognitive impairment from the effects of normal aging. Some suspected cases of impaired mental activity may in fact represent treatable conditions such as depression and an underactive thyroid. People experiencing the significant memory problems associated with mild cognitive impairment may be expected to decline by about 10% each year. Risk factors associated with more rapid decline include a low metabolic rate in regions of the brain associated with memory and processing of information. More rapid decline is also associated with reduced size of the hippocampus, a seahorse-shaped structure located in the center of the brain which is important in memory, spatial memory, and navigation.

The good news is that people can take action on their own behalf to preserve and improve cognitive function. Numerous recent studies have shown that regular exercise provides a significant benefit in people with memory problems.2,3 For example, long-term improvements in cognitive function were obtained by walking for 50 minutes a day, three times per week. People exercising for 150 minutes each week had better delayed recall and they performed better on cognitive tests. Additionally, people doing moderate exercise had lower Clinical Dementia Rating Scores. In one study, a 6-month program of physical activity resulted in improvements which persisted over an 18-month period.

The message is clear. We want to have the opportunity to get older and we also want to live well. There are natural effects of normal aging, but we don't want other potential effects of aging to grind us down. Exercising is an important action step that has a wide range of benefits, including improved cardiovascular and respiratory function. We now know that exercise can also preserve and improve cognitive abilities. It's smart to do regular exercise to help us stay smart.

Cognitive Function and Chiropractic

One of the proposed mechanisms for the benefit of regular exercise on mental functioning involves alterations in the amount of blood reaching the brain. A complementary proposed mechanism involves alterations in the structure and function of the brain's own blood vessels.
The ability of regular exercise to stimulate growth of new blood vessels and strengthen and improve existing blood vessels depends, in part, on a properly functioning nerve system. Your nerve system supports the activity of all other body systems. It needs to be operating at peak levels in order for all other systems to operate at their peak levels.
Regular chiropractic care helps ensure the integrity and proper functioning of your nerve system, including your brain, spinal cord, and spinal nerves. By doing this, chiropractic care helps you get the most out of your exercise.

This newsletter issue for January 2012 is brought to you by Life Wellness Center

Mitten Tree Update -

2012-01-02T08:41:00.001-06:00

A BIG 'Thank You' to everyone who helped us raise 85 pair of mittens, gloves and hats for children in need in our community.

Quote of the Week:

2012-01-02T08:32:00.004-06:00

“Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” ~Steve Jobs

Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Tilt

2012-01-02T08:32:00.002-06:00

Difficulty: Easy

Start: Lie down on back with legs bent 90 degrees and feet on floor. Place fingertips on abdomen, just inside pointy tips of pelvic bones.

Exercise: Drawing belly button toward spine, try to flatten lower back without letting abdomen bulge outward. Hold for 1-2 counts, then release. Perform 10-15 repetitions.

Topic of the Week: Chiropractic – A Light at the End of the Carpal Tunnel.

2012-01-02T08:30:00.000-06:00

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common nerve entrapment syndrome. It is a painful condition caused by irritation or compression of the median nerve. In one survey of the general population, approximately 14.4% reported having symptoms resembling CTS—including numbness, tingling, weakness and pain. Patient complaints are usually limited to the thumb and index finger, but in some cases may also involve the rest of the hand, the wrist and even the forearm.

This syndrome derives its name from the location where the nerve irritation/compression most often occurs—in the carpal tunnel of the wrist.

Anatomically, the bones of the wrist are positioned in an arch-shaped arrangement that leaves enough space for nerves, tendons and blood vessels to pass to the hand and fingers—this area is called the Carpal Tunnel. If the passageway of this tunnel becomes crowded, the resulting pressure on the median nerve can result in any of the symptoms mentioned above.

One of the most commonly reported causes of CTS symptoms is inflammation of the tendons passing through the carpal tunnel. However, irritation of the median nerve can also be caused by displacement of one of the carpal bones, or irritation of the nerve at other locations—such as the neck, shoulder or near the elbow. Activities known to contribute to this type of syndrome are those associated with repetitive contraction of the small muscles of the hand: like typing, knitting or sewing. However, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, CTS is most common amongst assembly-line workers.

Because chiropractors are accustomed to dealing with problems of the joints, muscles and nerves, many patients with CTS will consult with their chiropractor. This is a good thing, because although medical options can help reduce the intensity of CTS symptoms in the vast majority of cases, surgery can be rather expensive, plus the success rate for complete resolution from carpal tunnel syndrome has been estimated as low as 60%. Not to mention, there are also reported side effects involved with surgery, including other nerve damage and delayed wound healing.

How does chiropractic help?

Whereas traditional medicine tends to focus in the area of the pain, chiropractors will consider the entire kinetic chain. According to experts, dysfunctional neurological patterns in the neck can cause abnormal firing patterns in different muscles, including the ones that lead into the wrist and hand.

Therefore, it is important to consider the mechanics of your neck and upper back. Vertebral subluxations in these areas could be one of the main contributing factors to CTS!

In addition, chiropractors also know how the alignment of the bones in your wrist and elbow could be the cause of your symptoms. When joints are not aligned properly, the resulting inflammation and pain can cause spasm of the muscles in the area of the subluxation, plus irritation of the surrounding soft tissues. This alone could be the cause of the swelling and irritation of the tendons in the carpal tunnel. Sometimes, just a quick and gentle adjustment applied to one of the bones in these areas can help relieve the pressure.

When it comes to carpal tunnel syndrome, like any other maladies in the body, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! You should always...

• Consider the ergonomics of your workstation. Repetitive movements are not the problem—it is repetitive movement when your muscles and joints are at a disadvantage, leading to repetitive strain and pain.

• Take regular breaks when your job requires repetitive tasks. During your break periods, a little bit of stretching (of the tight muscles) can go a long way.

• Seek help when the CTS symptoms are just beginning to show up. The earlier you attend to these aches and pains, the better the chances of coming to a quick resolution of this painful condition.

If you start to feel the symptoms of CTS, let your chiropractor give you a hand. Studies have shown chiropractic care to be an effective tool to reduce the symptoms of CTS. Your chiropractor will conduct special tests to help determine the cause of the problem, and adjustments delivered right away can help prevent it from becoming a very painful, chronic problem.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Topic of the Week: Sleep Apnea Affects More Than Your Sleep

2011-12-27T15:49:00.002-06:00

We are now deep in the heart of winter, and you have probably already spent a good deal of the season trying to keep cold and flu viruses away by frequently washing your hands, getting lots of rest, and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables to keep your immune system in top shape. One nutrient that is important for battling infections is vitamin A.
This nutrient is based on chemical substances called retinoids and carotenoids. Each performs a number of vital functions in the body.

Immune System
When it comes to viruses and bacteria, vitamin A boosts the strength of mucous to fight these organisms and prevent them from entering the body. Vitamin A is also key in the development of lymphocytes - white blood cells that spur your immune system into action and kill infected cells.

Blood Health
As well as influencing white blood cells, vitamin A plays a role in the development of oxygen carried by red blood cells. Sufficient amounts of this vitamin can also help increase the supplementation is often used to treat iron-deficiency anemia.

Vision
Vitamin A is crucial for eye health, as it helps your vision adjust to darkness and protects many parts of the eye from damage. We are fortunate in North America because vitamin A deficiency is rare compared to developing countries, where this nutrient deficiency is the leading cause of blindness.

Cancer
Vitamin A may play a positive role in cancer by preventing the creation of cancerous cells. But more research needs to be conducted as some of the results from the cancer studies are mixed.
In one study, researchers were surprised to find that vitamin A may actually increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers. The research recruited 9,000 smokers and gave each of them 25,000 international units of retinol and 30 milligrams of betacarotene (both vitamin A precursors) daily for four years. At the end of the research period, the incidence of lung cancer was 28% higher in the supplement group compared to the placebo group. However, a study undertaken in China revealed participants who took a daily supplement containing betacarotene, selenium and vitamin E for five years saw a 13% reduction in esophageal and gastric cancers.
An interesting report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine showed that high blood levels of alpha-carotene (converted to vitamin A in the body) were linked to a lower overall risk of death from disease over a 14-year period. Alpha-carotene also seemed to reduce the chances of dying from cancer and cardiovascular disease. The researchers noted that alpha-carotene may be more powerful at blocking cancerous tumors than its chemically similar cousin beta-carotene.

Best Dietary Sources of Vitamin A
How much vitamin A should you get daily? The answer will depend on your age, gender and current state of health. Daily guidelines suggest 900ug (micrograms) for men and 700ug for women (19 years or older). Amounts for infants and children vary by age. Talk to your chiropractor for the amount that is right for you and your loved ones.
The best supplies of vitamin A can be found in yellow, orange and dark green vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, asparagus and yellow squash. Whole eggs, fish liver oil and fortified dairy products are also good sources.

Too Much of a Good Thing
Large doses of vitamin A supplements can be toxic, and depending on the chemical formulation, may increase the risk of birth defects. You should not take supplements without first discussing them with a qualified healthcare professional.
Make an appointment with your chiropractor to review your nutritional habits and discover the ways to eat for optimal health.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Quote of the Week:

2011-12-27T15:47:00.002-06:00

“One kind word can warm three winter months.”~ Japanese Proverb

Exercise of the Week: Lumbar stabilization (stage 4) – “Plank Up”

2011-12-27T15:46:00.001-06:00

Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

Start: Lie down on stomach. Then, begin by propping upper body up onto elbows/forearms, with hands together in prayer position. Engage inner abdominal muscles by bringing belly button inward. Keeping spine steady, lift hips and knees so you are resting on toes, creating a straight line from ankles to shoulders.

Exercise: Keeping spine steady, lift one arm and place hand/arm in push-up position. Then, keeping torso as steady as possible, push up so both hands/arms are in final push-up position. Pause, then lower back down to your elbows, keeping your torso steady throughout movement. For next repetition, start with opposite hand/arm. Perform 3-5 repetitions per side. Be careful not to strain lower back.

Core Fitness - What Is It and What Is It Good For?

2011-12-27T15:22:00.001-06:00

This newsletter issue for December 2011 is brought to you by Life Wellness Center

Core training is a no-longer-new catchphrase on the fitness landscape. Many doctors, including chiropractors, orthopedists, and even cardiologists, emphasize the importance of core training with their patients. Practically every physical therapist and personal trainer has learned a variety of core exercises to use with their clients. Core fitness has become an advertising buzzword, helping to sell all kinds of health-related products. The overall result is raised awareness of the importance of core strength and the opportunity to engage in a critically important form of healthy exercise....(Click here to continue reading)

What's Happening This Week At LWC!

2011-12-21T09:48:00.003-06:00

Quote of the Week:

2011-12-19T08:52:00.001-06:00

“If you can’t change your fate, change your attitude”~ Amy Tan

Topic of the Week: GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF CHIROPRACTIC THIS YEAR!

2011-12-19T08:51:00.002-06:00

In many traditions and cultures, December is the month of major holidays which include the giving and receiving of gifts. Normally, one would assume this time is only associated with joy and gratitude.

All-too-often, however, this time of year can be associated with a lot of stress! Travel schedules, family obligations and unrealistic expectations placed upon us can create stress that builds up as tension in our bodies. This leaves us more vulnerable to feeling aches and pains in our joints or muscles, or succumbing to the ever-present cold or flu virus.

It is not surprising that stress causes tension. But how is it that tension can actually hurt us? If you have ever been the victim of a stressful situation (who hasn’t?), you’ll probably remember the muscles of your neck and shoulders feeling tight, or maybe you were aware of clenching your jaw or fists? This is a typical physical response to mental or emotional challenges. How this leads to damage in your body can be found in the relationship between muscles and joints: Some muscles tighten to provide postural support, and others contract and relax to generate movement. Each muscle attaches to at least two different bones, generating relative movement around a common joint. For example, the bicep muscle crosses the elbow joint, and when the bicep shortens, the arm is flexed at the elbow. Muscle contraction places an increased physical strain or load on the tissues, but this strain is used to perform a useful function. Movement of your muscles is coordinated by the messages relayed by nerves coming from your brain. When muscles are not needed, nerve signals are silenced and the muscles return to a relaxed, resting tone, ready for when they are next called upon to contract.

When abnormal tension exists in the nervous system (caused by stress), muscles are bombarded by a low-level of nervous system activity – this does not create enough stimulation to cause a contraction, but generates a higher resting tone. This higher tone (muscle tightness) not only places an undue amount of strain on the tissues not being used, but it also leads to a greater compressive load on the joints that are coupled with the muscles in question. This is very unhealthy for the joint, as it could convert minor imbalances to major ones, leading to misalignment and subluxation of the joint. If this happens over time, extra pressure can also lead to accelerated joint degeneration – or osteoarthritis.

Chiropractic to the rescue!
Anyone who has experienced a chiropractic adjustment will know what it feels like to have pressure taken off their joints. Instant relief!

However, did you know that one of the main reasons why Chiropractors adjust your spine is to help restore proper tone in the nervous system? The father of Chiropractic, D.D. Palmer, spoke about this all the time. He described normal tone in the human nervous system responsible for a state of ease in the body, and abnormal tone in the nervous system leading to dis-ease. When the spine has areas of misalignment, this can cause irritation of the nervous system. These areas of misalignment or irritation are called vertebral subluxations.

Having nervous system irritation is like having extra ‘noise’ in the room when you are trying to have a conversation with someone. This makes it harder to hear the message. As a result, you either have to shout to get your point across, or risk not being understood. In the body, when this extra noise occurs in the spine (from subluxations) this can cause miscommunication in the nervous system, which can lead to dysfunction and pain.

With a well-placed Chiropractic adjustment, vertebrae are swiftly and effectively shifted back in place, taking excessive pressure off the joints and removing the excessive ‘noise’ from the nervous system that vertebral subluxations can cause.

That is why scheduling a visit to your Chiropractor just before and just after the holiday season is perfect timing! It can help facilitate a greater sense of ‘ease’ in the body, making it easier to handle the stress that normally awaits you at this time of year. Or, once you have been exposed to and felt the effects of the stress, your Chiropractor can bring your system back to normal. We can not think of a better gift to give yourself this year!

HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAYS TO EVERYONE!

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Lumbar stabilization (stage 3) Plank Position

2011-12-19T08:47:00.002-06:00

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie down on stomach. Then, begin by propping upper body up onto elbows/forearms, with hands together in prayer position. Engage inner abdominal muscles by bringing belly button inward. Keeping spine steady, lift hips and knees so you’re resting on toes, creating a straight line from ankles to shoulders.

Exercise: Keeping spine steady, lift one leg 6-8 inches. Hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 1).
If this is relatively easy, try bringing the leg horizontal out to one side as far as you can, keeping torso steady. Hold this position 10-20 seconds. (Option #2)
Switch legs, and repeat. Perform3-5 sets of this exercise per side. Be careful not to strain lower back.

Book Signing - Saturday, December 17th at 9:00 AM!!!

2011-12-14T14:15:00.001-06:00

The ultimate guide to sticking with your New Year’s Resolution to get fit and stay fit is here!

Join Scott Fjelsted for a short lecture and book signing of his recently published book ForeverFitU; Making Fitness A Lifestyle That Lasts A Lifetime, on Saturday, December 17 at 9 A.M. at the Life Wellness Center in Lakeville, MN!

If you or someone you know has struggled with making fitness a lifestyle, this is a small but powerful tool to help you do so.

If you cannot make the book signing and would like to purchase ForeverFitU for you or as a Christmas gift for someone you know, send Scott Fjelsted an email with your name, address and how many books you want and Scott will send you a signed book(s) in plenty of time for Christmas!

You can also WIN a free copy of Scott's autographed book signed also by O'Neal Hampton, contestant on The Biggest Loser, Season 9!

Quote of the Week

2011-12-12T08:42:00.002-06:00

“A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.”~ Irish Proverb

Topic of the Week: Sleep Apnea Affects More Than Your Sleep

2011-12-12T08:42:00.000-06:00

As the obesity epidemic rises around the world, we see how this problem multiplies several serious health conditions. One of these conditions will literally keep you awake at night: sleep apnea. Obese people are at greater risk to develop this condition. It affects about 18 million people in North America and that number is expected to steadily increase.

There are two types. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common, and it occurs when your airway is blocked because soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses during sleep. When this happens, the brain alerts you by waking you. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may wake several hundred times throughout your sleep cycle - even though you may not remember all waking periods.

The less common central sleep apnea happens when the brain does not send signals to the muscles to breathe but the airway is not actually blocked. This condition indicates a problem in the respiratory system.

Without restful sleep, you greatly increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and hypertension.

Sleep apnea can occur in men, women and children. However, several risk factors can boost your chances of developing this problem. These include obesity, over 40 years of age, a large neck size (16” inches plus), nasal obstructions, gastrointestinal reflux, or a family history of sleep apnea. Men are also more likely to develop this condition than women.

When you have sleep apnea, you often...
- Snore loudly
- Gasp for breath while sleeping
- Awake frequently
- Suffer morning headaches
- Experience daytime sleepiness
- Have concentration and memory problems
- Feel depressed

Poor Sleep Equals Poor Health
Many people underestimate how insufficient sleep can harm their health. A study from Sweden found stroke victims with obstructive sleep apnea were more likely to die than those with no history of this sleep disorder.

Yale University published research that revealed patients with obstructive sleep apnea had a 30% higher risk of having a heart attack or dying over a four to five year period. Those patients who were diagnosed with severe sleep apnea had the greatest chance of heart attack or death. This is probably due to decreased oxygen intake caused by the breathing stoppages that occur in sleep apnea sufferers.

Another startling risk is motor vehicle injuries. In research presented at an annual conference of the American Thoracic Society, scientists showed drivers with a history of sleep apnea were twice as likely to have a motor vehicle accident – 250 total car accidents for the sleep apnea group over three years, but only 125 accidents for non-sleep apnea group over the same time.

Diagnosis and Treatment
If you need to be tested for sleep apnea, your physician may refer you to a sleep clinic. There, you will undergo a polysomnogram in which a technician attaches electrodes to your head and body. The electrodes transmit information to a machine that records your electrical signals, muscle activity and oxygen levels. A sleep specialist analyzes the results from the test to determine if you have sleep apnea.

You may be able to treat mild sleep apnea with lifestyle changes. Experts recommend you avoid consuming alcohol, smoking, using sleep pills and sleeping on your back.

Losing weight may also help diminish sleep apnea. Sweden’s Karolinska Institute enlisted 60 overweight and obese men with moderate or severe sleep apnea. The men were placed on a calorie restricted diet for nine weeks. At the end of the study, the men lost an average of 40 pounds and saw significant relief from sleep apnea symptoms.

Dental appliances designed specifically for sleep apnea may be beneficial for some patients.

If your sleep apnea cannot be controlled through lifestyle changes or dental devices, it may be necessary for you to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. This machine pumps continuous air through a hose and into your nose. The resulting air pressure keeps your airway clear and prevents sleep disruption.

Nasal and soft tissue surgery can be performed to alleviate sleep apnea. However, surgery does not guarantee a cure. Most physicians recommend less invasive techniques like lifestyle changes and CPAP machines.

If you frequently awake during sleep, you should discuss it with your primary healthcare specialist. Even if you are not diagnosed with sleep apnea, you want to address your insomnia as it can have a profound impact on your current and future health.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Lumbar stabilization (stage 2) Plank Position

2011-12-12T08:39:00.002-06:00

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie down on stomach.
Then, begin by propping upper body up onto elbows/forearms, with hands together in prayer position. Engage inner abdominal muscles by bringing belly button inward. Keeping spine steady, lift hips and knees so you’re resting on toes, creating a straight line from ankles to shoulders.

Exercise: Keeping spine steady, bend one leg to 90 degrees. Hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 1) If this is relatively easy, try lifting leg higher, and hold this position for 10-20 seconds. (Option 2) Switch legs, and repeat. Perform 3-5 sets of this exercise per side. Be careful not to strain lower back.

Man and Machine

2011-10-27T15:28:00.000-05:00

Is a computer like a human brain or is a human brain like a computer? When machines allow us to extend our abilities, are we enhancing our humanness or becoming more machine-like? What are the meaningful distinctions between humans and machines and how do these impact our daily pursuits of health, well-being, and happiness?

One primary practical distinction is that humans initiate spontaneous, unique, non-predetermined actions and machines do not. Advanced machines such as military early warning systems may initiate spontaneous activities, but all of these are predetermined and predefined to a greater or lesser degree. And for any machine responses that are not previously designated and programmed as routine, human interaction is required for initiation of the suggested action.

Generally, even the "smartest" machine only has access to a built-in suite of responses. Noted exceptions include computer programs based on simple rules which emulate living systems. The "cellular automata" generated by these programs demonstrate spontaneous emergent behaviors not predictable from the simple rules themselves. The "artificial life" thus observed is exceedingly complex and can even provide optimal solutions to deep scientific problems posed to the system by investigators.

Cellular automata are examples of complex systems, defined as systems which are critically sensitive to small changes in initial conditions. Complex systems achieved fame in Michael Crichton's novel (and the subsequent Stephen Spielberg film), "Jurassic Park". In the book, the paleobotanist Dr. Ian Malcolm uses the weather as an example of the nature of complex systems. In a scene which has achieved iconic status, Malcolm relates how a butterfly flapping its wings in the Amazon rain forest can cause a tornado in the American Midwest. Small changes in a complex system's initial state can lead to substantial unpredictable results in the system as a whole.

The human nervous system is such a complex, dynamic system.1,2,3 Small changes in the nervous system's initial state can result in dramatic outcomes. For example, a spinal misalignment (resulting from an innocuous low back muscle strain) can irritate a spinal nerve (a small change in initial conditions) which can lead to chronic indigestion, allergies, migraine headaches, or even high blood pressure down the road.

Most machines are not complex in this way, but they do require regular maintenance and care. As human beings, we are complex systems by our very nature and the importance of regular maintenance and care is that much greater. A healthy spine and optimally functioning nerve system go very far toward ensuring the health of our body-as-machine and our associated happiness and well-being.

Man as a Machine

The machine metaphor is very useful when we are considering aspects of human health and disease. For example, human machines need tuneups just as much and just as regularly as do mechanical machines.

Human machines that are "out of tune" break down. The nature of the breakdown may be minor or major, but it's never a good thing. Most of the time our health is transparent to us - we don't consciously experience our various body parts doing their job. Pain, however, is a notably conscious experience and one which is almost always unwelcome and unpleasant.

Regular chiropractic care is a convenient, efficient, and highly effective method of maintaining your personal human machine at peak levels of performance and structural integrity. Chiropractic care corrects the spinal misalignments that are common denominators in many, if not most, physical ailments and disorders. Chiropractic care directly addresses mechanical problems and helps ensure optimal functioning - optimal levels of health and well-being.

Diva Night II Vendor Spotlight: Apres Velo

2011-10-18T16:49:00.000-05:00

Crazy about biking clothing and fashion accessories? Check out one of our vendors that will be at next month's 'Diva Night III': http://us.apresvelo.com/index.htm

Quote of the Week:

2011-10-17T09:51:00.002-05:00

“There are lots of people who mistake their imagination for their memory.” ~ Josh Billings

Topic of the Week: Innate Intelligence and its Relation to Chiropractic

2011-10-17T09:51:00.000-05:00

Innate Intelligence – a chiropractic principle that supports your overall health and well-being!

When your life began, there were only two cells that came together to be ONE.

That one cell divided, then divided again, and divided again… eventually resulting in the human being that is known as YOU (a collection of about 50-70 TRILLION cells!).

Have you ever wondered how each cell knew where it was supposed to go? How, once a cell divided to become two new cells, that one of them knew it was supposed to differentiate into a heart cell, and the other was destined to become a lung cell? Or, how once all these individual cells grew and divided, that they were able to remain coordinated, with billions of cellular interactions taking place every second? How can all this be accomplished without you needing to be aware of any of it?

The original chiropractor, D.D. Palmer, also wondered about these things. He was fascinated with the human body and human life. From his experience with different healing modalities, he observed how health could be influenced by energy, and energy fields. He posited that all living matter must be guided to grow and evolve by an invisible life force – which he called Universal Intelligence.

It then followed that since we are alive, we must also possess within us a form of this Universal Intelligence – an energy which gives and sustains our lives with ease. He coined this force inside the body Innate Intelligence. As long as this Innate Intelligence is allowed to flow freely through and within us, then the physical matter can be animated and organized into a living, breathing, creative, expressive organism.

How does Innate Intelligence relate to chiropractic?

Universal and Innate Intelligence, in and of themselves, are considered perfect creations. However, once this intelligence has been injected into a physical system, it is unfortunately subject to the imperfect nature of that system. Such is the destiny of Innate Intelligence in the human body. Wherever there is a disruption of this life energy in the body, imperfection is expressed, and dis-ease can result.

D.D. Palmer taught us that Innate Intelligence is communicated to every cell in the body via the nervous system. Therefore, as long as the nervous system is free of interference or disruption, the health and wellness of the organism is sustained (considering the natural life-span of every cell).

The importance of the brain and the spinal cord relative to the life of every human being is confirmed by the body’s anatomy – these are the only two tissues in the body completely encased in a hard skeletal shell of protection! However, all this protection does not come without a cost. Bone is not very flexible – and life without movement is rather meaningless. So, in order to facilitate movement, the spine was separated into 26 movable pieces – 24 vertebrae, plus a sacrum and coccyx.

Because the individual parts of the spine can move, they can also become displaced. When a vertebra gets misaligned, restricted and/or dysfunctional, this is called a vertebral subluxation. Not only can this cause painful irritation of the joints and the nerves associated with that vertebra, but it can also disrupt the natural flow of Innate Intelligence, which can then disrupt the function of any tissue in the body, including the immune system – which leaves a person susceptible to illness.

Fortunately, D.D. Palmer recognized the importance of the spine, and the significance of vertebral subluxations with respect to our health. So important, in fact, that in 1895 – Chiropractic was born.

Although chiropractic and chiropractic techniques have evolved considerably over the last 115 years, all chiropractors hold true as their central tenet:

The human body possesses an Innate Intelligence with infinite wisdom – including the ability to maintain and sustain life – and this Innate Intelligence gives the body a natural state of ease, which can also be termed well-being. Innate Intelligence is communicated throughout the body by the nervous system. If the nervous system becomes irritated, then the communication of Innate Intelligence will be disrupted, causing dis-ease. The most common cause of nervous system interference and irritation is the vertebral subluxation.

Chiropractic is the only health care profession that has, as its central purpose, the identification and removal of vertebral subluxations from the spine in order to restore our natural state of ease and well-being. Anyone who has experienced a chiropractic adjustment can attest to the wide range of benefits that chiropractic provides.

Chiropractic adjustments not only ease your pain and suffering by taking the pressure off joints and nerves – they promote wellness by facilitating the flow of Innate Intelligence!

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Abdominal Twists on Exercise Ball

2011-10-17T09:49:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

Start: Assume reverse bridge position with shoulder blades and head resting on exercise ball. Focus on bringing belly button inward, and holding entire body in a straight line – ankles to ears. Arms are positioned straight to the side, palms facing up.

Exercise: Keeping hips elevated, reach one hand to ceiling, creating an upper body twist relative to pelvis. Allow ball to roll slightly underneath you. In ideal finish position, upper body will turn 90o relative to lower body, with only one shoulder touching ball. Pause for 2 counts. Return to starting position, and repeat on opposite side. Repeat 5-10 times per side.

Topic of the Week: Natural Substances Show Promise in Fighting Cancer

2011-10-11T16:36:00.000-05:00

New research, much of it released in the last six months, reveals compelling results for natural substances helping in the battle against cancer. While traditional cancer drugs do save lives, many of these medications have serious side effects, which can become so intolerable patients are unable to continue using them. As well, these medications can also destroy healthy cells at the same time they kill cancer cells.

Cheese

It may surprise you to hear that cheese has anti-cancer properties. Although this news was first released in Europe a number of years ago, only recently has the information gained attention in the North American media.

Research from the Netherlands reveals that hard cheeses like Gouda, Emmental and Edam may slash the risk of some cancers. Researchers attribute vitamin K2 found in these types of cheese with an anti-cancer mechanism. While it kills cancer cells, K2 performs another vital function: it stops cancer from creating blood vessels. Without blood vessels to feed it, cancer is prevented from growing and spreading.

Research shows these hard cheeses may help prevent the development of lung, breast and prostate cancer. About 2 slices daily of these cheeses can provide the therapeutic benefits against cancer.

Saffron

This expensive and highly prized spice has been used medicinally in many world cultures for centuries, including as a natural anti-depressant. Saffron is also an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Now research published in Hepatology shows saffron may have powerful protective properties against liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

In the Hepatology study, rats were injected with chemicals that induced liver cancer and then were given saffron. The spice slowed cancer cells from spreading and stimulated apoptosis (programmed cell death).

The authors of the research remarked: “This study provides evidence that saffron exerts a significant chemopreventive effect against liver cancer through inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. This report also shows some evidence that saffron protects rat liver from cancer via modulating oxidative damage and suppressing inflammatory response.”

Whole Ginger Extract

Like saffron, ginger has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. It is also one of the most widely used substances in traditional herbal medicine of India and Southeast Asia.

In an article published online in the British Journal of Nutrition, medical researchers looking into the effects of ginger compounds on prostate cancer discovered that whole ginger extract had considerable power to stop cancer cell growth and promote cell death in a variety of prostate cancer cells. The research indicated that consuming 3 ½ ounces of a whole ginger extract daily could deliver this therapeutic effect.

Selenium

This important antioxidant mineral has received a fair amount of study by cancer researchers. For many years, it was believed that selenium played a preventative role against prostate cancer. However, more recent research has disputed selenium’s benefit in this area.

But the journal of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention released research last year that showed selenium intake was linked to a lower risk of developing bladder cancer. According to the study abstract, the researchers noted “a significant protective effect of selenium, mainly among women, which they believe may result from genderspecific differences in the mineral's accumulation and excretion in women.”

Coffee

We looked at the health benefits of coffee in an earlier edition of Wellness Express™, but new medical research on coffee has just been released in the last few months.

Coffee may reduce the risk of a specific cancer of the breast called anti-estrogen resistant estrogenreceptor (ER) negative breast cancer.

A Swedish study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research revealed postmenopausal women who drank five cups of coffee daily had a lower incidence of ER negative breast cancer compared to women who drank only one cup a day. However, the researchers remarked it is unclear what exact compounds within coffee provide this protective effect. The study showed drinking coffee had no influence on reducing ER positive breast cancer.

There is also good news for male coffee drinkers. The Harvard School of Public Health published a study that indicated men who consumed six or more cups of coffee daily cut their risk of any form of prostate cancer by 20% and they slashed the risk of developing an aggressive type of prostate cancer by a whopping 60%! Now, if you cannot stomach the idea of drinking six cups of coffee a day, you will be happy to hear that even one to three cups of java daily reduces your risk of this aggressive prostate cancer by 30%. The study authors commented the results were identical for caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee.

Always consult with your chiropractor before using supplements and herbal products.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Quote of the Week

2011-10-11T16:18:00.002-05:00

“The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it.” - C.C. Scott

Exercies of the Week:Abdominal Crunches on Exercise Ball – Reach for Ceiling

2011-10-11T16:17:00.000-05:00

Difficulty:

Start: Lie on back over exercise ball so lower portion of ribcage is positioned over center of ball. Let head rest on ball, and relax hips. Keep knees wide apart, and position arms stretched out overhead.

Exercise: Engage inner abdominals first by bringing belly button inwards. Then, curl body forward on ball. As you curl forward, reach hands for ceiling. Return to starting position. Repeat 5-15 times.Easy to Moderate

Newsletter: Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain

2011-10-05T08:47:00.000-05:00

The condition of fibromyalgia creates many challenges for a person with this disorder. These challenges often go far beyond the characteristic chronic pain which alone can be potentially debilitating. Those with fibromyalgia have pain in many locations and the presence of multiple pain sites is often confusing to their doctor or doctors. Family physicians, internists, endocrinologists, and even pain management specialists and rheumatologists often have great difficulty in comprehending the full extent of fibromyalgia and the serious health and well-being issues that are caused by the disorder.

Persons with fibromyalgia have so many symptoms that an uninformed physician may find it easier to refer such patients to a psychologist or psychiatrist. But the physical symptoms of fibromyalgia are real. The sufferers have widespread pain on a chronic basis. Additional symptoms include fatigue, sleep disturbances, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, joint stiffness, and cognitive dysfunction (brain fog). Depression commonly affects those with fibromyalgia.

Owing to the presence of so many chronic symptoms, fibromyalgia is notoriously difficult to treat. Such patients are typically taking multiple medications, prescribed by multiple specialists attempting to combat the problems that fall within their particular branch of medicine - pain management, rheumatology, and psychology/psychiatry.

Despite taking several medications on a long-term basis, most fibromyalgia patients tend not to improve. Depression and chronic pain take a profound toll, and daily living becomes quite burdensome. Many fibromyalgia patients despair of ever finding even a partial solution.

Attempts to address the problems of fibromyalgia by just treating the symptoms often fail. As the physiologic causes of the disorder are unknown, holistic approaches have a much greater likelihood of success. Multidisciplinary treatment is needed to impact this systems-wide disorder, including chiropractic care, nutritional recommendations, psychological counseling, and a gradual return to increased levels of physical activity and exercise.

Chiropractic Care Provides Multiple Benefits

Chiropractic care, by its very nature, is a holistic method of healing. By using noninvasive methods which balance function within both the nerve system and the musculoskeletal system, chiropractic care gives your body the best chance to recover from many complicated problems.

Chiropractic care is a key component of the multidisciplinary approach to management of multisystemic disorders such as fibromyalgia. By restoring more normal function to the person's nerve system, chiropractic care unleashes powerful and natural healing forces. The result is a body whose parts are now working together instead of against each other. As the body heals, pain and symptoms will likely naturally begin to reduce and resolve.

Quote of the Week:

2011-10-03T10:10:00.003-05:00

“Even if you are on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.” - Will Rogers

Exercise of the Week: Crunches on Exercise Ball with Oblique Twist

2011-10-03T10:10:00.001-05:00

Difficulty: Beginner to Moderate

Start: Lie on back over exercise ball so that lower portion of ribcage is positioned over center of ball. Let head rest on ball and relax hips. Keep knees wide apart and position arms across chest (easy), hands behind head with elbows out (moderate), or arms stretched out overhead (difficult).

Exercise: Engage inner abdominals first by bringing belly button inwards. Then, curl body forward on ball, keeping lower back in contact with ball at all times. As you curl forward, bring one shoulder/elbow across body in the direction of the opposite knee. Return to starting position. Alternate sides. Repeat 5-10 times each side.

Topic of the Week: Depression and Obesity – A Dangerous Combination

2011-10-03T10:09:00.000-05:00

In North America, one in 20 people suffer from depression. In the US alone, physicians write 230 million antidepressant prescriptions each year. More women than men are affected by depression, but this fact may be skewed because men are often less likely to seek professional help.

When it comes to obesity, you are probably already familiar with how it negatively affects your physical health - boosting the chances of heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. This week we investigate the health consequences of depression and obesity.

Depression and Obesity – Conjoined Twins?
Does depression cause obesity? Or does obesity cause depression? According to medical researchers, the answer is “both”. One weight study author remarked that when they gain weight, people get depressed, and when they get depressed, these people have more trouble losing weight.

A study of middle-aged women found they were more often depressed if they were obese and more obese if they were depressed. Weight gain is connected to increased caloric intake and less physical activity and these factors contribute to boosting the risk of developing depression.1 In fact, research shows that a woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above boosts her chance of developing depression into the range of 50% to 150%.

For many years, physicians were reluctant to place depressed obese patients on a weight loss program because doctors feared this would only make the depression worse. However, medical researchers now believe that fear is misguided. Recent studies show depressed patients can participate in weight loss programs without intensifying their symptoms.

Behavioral Medicine published a research article in 2010 that recommends depressed individuals should not be excluded from weight loss studies. Conducted by the Group Health Research Institute, the study recruited both depressed and nondepressed women with a BMI of 30 or higher to participate in a one year weight loss program.

"We expected women with major depression to lose less weight, attend fewer sessions, eat more calories, and get less exercise than those without depression," commented lead researcher Evette Ludman, Ph.D. "We were surprised to find no significant differences between the women who had depression and those who did not have it. Instead, what made a difference was just showing up. Women who attended at least 12 sessions lost more weight (14 pounds at 6 months, and 11 pounds at 12 months) than did those who attended fewer sessions (4 pounds at both 6 and 12 months), regardless of whether they had depression. Being depressed did not lead them to attend fewer sessions or lose less weight. Because of our findings and the welldocumented health risks of obesity, we think rigorous efforts should be taken to engage and retain all women in need of such services in intensive weight loss programs.”

Anti-Depressant Medication & Weight Problems
One of the side effects of antidepressant drugs is weight gain. When on anti-depressants, about 25% of depression sufferers see their weight increase by at least 10 pounds. Research shows that weight gain can be tied to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), tricylics and MAO inhibitors types of anti-depressant drugs.

Scientists are not sure why antidepressants cause weight to rise. A possible theory is these medications impact the body’s metabolism. Another theory is patients who feel their depression lift find eating is more enjoyable, and subsequently increase their calorie intake.

Can you curb anti-depressant weight gain? There are certainly ways to help reduce the chances of putting on pounds while taking anti-depressants, although these methods do not work for everyone. You can talk to your physician about switching to a different medication, as some anti depressants are more prone to cause weight gain than others. Also boost your amount of exercise and eat more nutritious food to lower the risk of weight increase.

What you should not do is stop taking your anti-depressant medications, try herbal remedies or go on a diet or exercise program without first consulting with a qualified healthcare professional.

Remember, always inform your chiropractic physician of any medications and supplements you use.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional.

Topic of the Week: How to Get Your Kids to Eat Healthier Food

2011-09-26T08:29:00.000-05:00

Parents’ influence on the diet of their children is enormous. While that may not be surprising news, recent food research shows startling information on this topic, including faulty parental views of childhood obesity, how children perceive food within a family setting, and how children’s involvement with food preparation impacts their dietary choices.

Eating in a Time-Starved World
When they are abundantly exposed to fruits and vegetables, kids are more likely to add these healthy items to their list of favorite foods. However, the same is true if they are often exposed to high fat, high sugar and high caloric items – like fast food. When parents eat poorly, kids mimic their parents’ food preferences.

Even when they have the best of dietary intentions for their children, parents are squeezed by lack of time to prepare nutritious meals and may opt for a quick “drive thru” solution to replace a sit-down, home cooked dinner. Every year, more of North American’s daily calories come from food prepared outside the family home.

The Journal of the American Dietetic Association recently published studies confirming that location and food sources (including fast food and store-prepared food) are significant contributors to the daily calorie intake of children. Families eating fast food three or more times a week were more likely to have unhealthy foods at home, such as pop and chips. As well, frequent visits to fast food restaurants were also associated with higher body mass index (BMI). Currently people in North America spend 50 percent of their food budget in restaurants, and these foods are often high in fat and sodium.

Dietary researchers point out that the primary sources of energy for kids between 2 and 18 years of age are grain desserts, pizza and soda. Almost 40 percent of total calories consumed were from empty calories (foods high in energy but low in nutrition.

Another problem for parents is controlling the food their child eats at school. Although many education institutions are creating healthier food choices in their cafeterias, research carried out by Temple University routinely found that many items in school vending machines were over 200 calories. This revelation provides more incentive for parents to pack healthier alternatives for their kids’ snacks.

Child Weight Problem Underestimated
With the number of obese children nearly topping 20 percent, you may be surprised at how some parents view obesity. Dietary experts are puzzled by the amount of research indicating many parents do not perceive their obese children as being overweight.

Parents who are also obese were more likely to underestimate that their child had a weight problem.

In a study of obese four and five year-old children, about 50 percent of the kids’ mothers and 39 percent of their fathers believed their child was within a normal weight range.

A study conducted in the state of New York also found parents were often unaware how dangerous obesity can be to their child’s health. The results showed 76 percent of parents thought an obesity problem was as minor as getting sunburn.

Steps You Can Take
What can you do to help keep your child’s weight level in an appropriate range? Obviously, you need to limit your child’s intake of fast food and processed food. Here are some additional tips on healthy shopping, saving time and enticing kids to eat healthy:

- Plan Ahead – Write a grocery list and stick to it. This will help reduce impulse buying of nutritionally low food. Read food labels so you know how many calories, fat and sodium are in your food items.

- Prep Ahead – Spend some time on a day off from work to prep meals and lunches for the upcoming week. Cut up vegetables and marinade meat ahead of time so you do not have this chore when you come home after work.

- Eat Together – Studies show that when parents and children sit together for a home cooked meal, both groups generally eat healthier.

- Grow Your Vegetables – Get your kids involved in planting and caring for a vegetable garden. An Asian study revealed that when they were involved in tending a vegetable garden, the children doubled their dietary consumption of vegetables.

- Let kids help – Get your children involved in the meal preparation process. Having some extra help mixing and pouring saves you time and makes it more likely for your kids to eat what they helped prepare.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

2011-09-26T08:27:00.000-05:00

Start: Assume push-up position with hands on ball, fingers pointing toward floor. Hands should be positioned directly under shoulders and body should be in a straight line from ankles to ears.

Exercise: Keeping torso perfectly straight, slowly lower yourself to ball. Pause just before chest touches ball. If your upper body strength allows, push yourself back up to start position. If upper body strength is lacking, let chest come all way down to ball, then come off ball to return to start position. Repeat 5-15 times.

Quote of the Week:

2011-09-26T08:26:00.001-05:00

“The body is like a piano, and happiness is like music. It is needful to have the instrument in good order.” - Henry Ward Beecher

Exercise of the Week: Abdominal Bridge on Exercise Ball with Single Leg Lift/Abduction

2011-09-19T09:33:00.002-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Assume abdominal bridge position on exercise ball. Focus on bringing belly button inward, and hold entire body in a straight line - ankles to ears.

Exercise: Lift one foot a few inches off floor. Stabilize yourself, keeping body still. Abduct leg as far as possible to side, keeping body still. Hold for 5-10 counts. Return to start position, and repeat with other leg. Maintain a tight abdomen throughout. Repeat 5-10 times per leg.

Topic of the Week: How Much Chiropractic Care Do You Need?

2011-09-19T09:31:00.003-05:00

You have come for your first chiropractic assessment, and the doctor tells you that you have some misalignments/restrictions in your spine called subluxations. What’s next? How much chiropractic care are you going to need?

Based on information from your medical history, the physical assessment, and your current symptom patterns, your chiropractic physician is going to create a treatment plan based on three key factors:

1. Your personal health goals - short-term symptom resolution or long-term health & wellness?

2. The cause of your symptoms - the diagnosis – including the length of time you have had symptoms.

3. Your willingness to participate - following recommendations for stretches, exercises, etc.

Your Personal Health Goals
Is it your goal to use chiropractic for pain-management or is it your intention to use chiropractic to help you be healthier? If you simply want to have less pain today, often a single chiropractic treatment will do the trick. By correcting vertebral subluxations, pressure is taken off the joints, nerves and other pain sensitive soft tissues. The result – you feel better. This kind of treatment is similar to taking a pill. You feel good only until the effects of the medicine wear off.

In order to be healthier, and to feel good long term, you need to create structural correction that will last. This requires repetitive treatments, aimed at re-establishing your natural spinal curves and alignment.

Just as working out in a gym to change your body’s shape takes time and effort, re-establishing normal spinal curvatures takes time too. After symptoms are under control, long-term correction and maintenance of your spine is a life-long affair. Monthly check-ups are often enough to keep you healthy, but it depends on your activity levels and life-stress.

The Cause of Your Symptoms
Many of us have had the uncomfortable experience of hurting our back from physical trauma – like a fall, a twist, or lifting something too heavy or awkward. These situations can lead to bouts of acute pain caused by vertebral subluxations, plus muscle spasms and inflammation associated with that kind of injury. Fortunately, a few well-placed chiropractic adjustments, scheduled soon after an injury, can often help ease the pain caused by misalignment. This can also help prevent the long-term negative effects of vertebral subluxations by taking the pressure off immediately.

However, what if there was no physical trauma preceding your back pain? What if the pain is more chronic, or comes on without any obvious trauma?

Your chiropractor knows that for these painful symptoms to occur there must have been a musculoskeletal system imbalance beforehand – perhaps several low-grade, minor subluxations that were not bad enough to be painful. And, the longer the imbalance has been there, the more challenging it is to change that physical pattern. Typically, your chiropractor may ask you to come for treatments daily, or every other day, until your adjustments start to hold on their own. The longer you have had symptoms, usually the longer this will take. After this stage, you and your chiropractor work together to determine what works best long term.

Your Participation
Your chiropractic physician is highly skilled at determining what is wrong, and knows precisely where to apply the chiropractic adjustments so you will feel better. However, to stabilize your musculoskeletal system, there are definitely things you can do to help - both in the short term and well into the future. Immediately following an acute injury, your chiropractor may recommend icing the symptomatic areas to reduce inflammation and will probably suggest that you modify your activities for a certain period of time. This allows the proper healing process to occur.

Then, when you are in either the corrective and/or maintenance phase of your treatment plan, you may be asked to do certain exercises and stretches to facilitate long-term stabilization of proper spinal alignment.

If you comply with your chiropractor’s recommendations, you will realize the full benefit of chiropractic care, and prolong the durability and health of your spine. If you do not follow the recommendations, you are more prone to a relapse.

Be sure to share with your chiropractic physician your full medical history and also mention your personal health goals. Your chiropractor will use this information to create a treatment plan that is right for you.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

A Walk in the Forest

2011-09-15T16:53:00.000-05:00

If you do not receive our bi-monthly newsletter, here is this week's topic; "A Walk in the Forest".

The world is changing. Global populations continue to migrate to urban areas. These ongoing relocations lead to substantial distortions in human biosystems. In a word and to no one's surprise, living in big cities comes with a big cost. The good news is that by taking simple, doable, healthful actions on our own behalf, we can become healthier and happier members of our great urban communities....

Click the link to continue read: http://lifewellnesscenter.net/index.php?newsletters=10223

Quote of the Week

2011-09-12T12:30:00.001-05:00

“Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy.” - Leo Buscaglia

Exercise of the Week: Abdominal Bridge on Exercise Ball with Single Leg Curl

2011-09-12T12:29:00.002-05:00

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Start: Assume abdominal bridge position on exercise ball. Focus on bringing belly button inward and holding entire body in a straight line – ankles to ears.

Exercise: Lift one foot a few inches off floor. Stabilize yourself, keeping body still. Curl leg to 90 degrees and hold for 5-10 counts. Return to start position, and repeat with other leg. Maintain a tight abdomen throughout. Repeat 5-10 times per leg.

Topic of the Week: Is Your Child Anxious at School?

2011-09-12T12:29:00.000-05:00

Anxiety disorders affect one in eight children. It has become an increasing problem for kids, parents and teachers. While many children look forward to school, some children dread it. Anxious kids endure painful, uncomfortable episodes of nervousness, irritability and frightening thoughts. They often find it difficult to focus on their school work and may frequently complain of illness, such as headaches or stomachaches. Untreated anxious kids are at higher risk of engaging in substance abuse.
Normal Anxiety vs. Anxiety Disorder

It is typical for even non-anxious children to experience anxious feelings, such as being afraid of the dark or getting separated from their parents. Children attach anxiety to specific situations, but the bad feelings disappear when the situation is over, or the child simply outgrows the fear. However, children with anxiety disorders endure extreme anxiety over long periods of time.

What causes a child to develop an anxiety disorder? The answer is still not clear, but numerous experts agree that genetics, family environment and life experiences all play key roles. Studies indicate girls are more likely to develop anxiety disorders than boys, and younger children are more prone to anxiety problems than older children.

Separation Anxiety

This is a common issue for young kids, especially if they are just starting school or changing to a different school. A child may cry for a few minutes after being dropped off at school. This is a normal response, but for a child with separation anxiety disorder, he or she can feel fearful for hours and cry continually. The child may have concentration difficulties and fail to engage with his or her classmates. The problem can continue at home, with the anxious child having sleep problems, frequent nightmares or refusing to go to school.

Social Anxiety

This anxiety disorder can interfere with a child’s social development. To parents, social anxiety can appear as extreme shyness in their child. Kids with this disorder feel anxious around new people and new situations, may have trouble forming friends and are often reluctant to participate in group activities. At school, a socially anxious child is afraid to make mistakes for fear of embarrassment or attracting unwanted attention.

School Refusal Anxiety

Severe anxiety can lead to a child refusing to go to school or stay in school. With school refusal anxiety disorder, a child often complains of feeling ill – either at school or shortly before going to school. He or she may develop this problem if changing to a new school, fears failing academically, or gets bullied. School refusal can be linked to separation anxiety and social anxiety.

Treatment of Anxiety

The primary treatment method used for dealing with childhood anxiety is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of psychotherapy is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not external things – such as events, situations and people.

The CBT therapist teaches the child to recognize their unsettling thoughts and behaviors and provides strategies to deal and cope with his or her anxious feelings. CBT therapy also includes relaxation training, role-playing and positive reinforcement.

More Tips for Parents of Anxious Kids

If you think your child is struggling with serious anxiety, talk to a pediatrician. You should also bring it to the attention of your child’s teacher and school counselor. In the meantime, here are five tips for helping your anxious child:

1. Be Supportive – Make your child feel comfortable talking about her anxiety and offer reassurance. When a child is able to express fears to her parents, she actually experiences a decrease in anxiety.

2. Be School Positive – Point to the fun aspects of school to your child. This can include playing with classmates and engaging in new activities.

3. Allow for Downtime – Just like adults, children need time to decompress. Do not over schedule your child with too many activities. Make sure they have unstructured playtime, which helps reduce the impact of anxiety.

4. Encourage Exercise – Children should get 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Exercise helps slash levels of the stress hormone cortisol and boost levels of the mood enhancing neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. Studies show children involved in team sports report less anxiety, and it is especially helpful for kids with social anxiety disorder.

5. Visit Your Chiropractor – Getting regular chiropractic adjustments help kids just as much as adults. Chiropractic reduces stress-related subluxations that impact nerves and restores a more balanced, natural tone to the nervous system.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Patients Who Receive The Best Care (part 2)

2011-08-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

Patients Who Receive The Best Care (part 1)

2011-08-30T15:22:00.000-05:00

Trigger Points and Pain

2011-08-25T11:16:00.000-05:00

Trigger points are persistent, localized muscle spasms that can cause a great deal of pain. Trigger points alone may be responsible for many cases of neck pain, upper back pain, and lower back pain. This relationship is fairly common knowledge among physicians who treat pain, including chiropractors, rheumatologists, and physiatrists (doctors of physical medicine).

What is not generally known is that trigger points may also be implicated in radiating pain into the arm and hand or radiating pain into the leg and foot. In fact, radiating pain due to trigger points may be mistaken for pain caused by a herniated disc, in either the neck or lower back. Trigger point pain affecting the wrist and hand may even be misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. A patient in whom a correct diagnosis of trigger point pain is missed may lose much precious time and other resources, as she fruitlessly "tries" one doctor after another and needlessly undergoes all sorts of complex and costly testing.

The key to correctly identifying the source and cause of upper or lower extremity radiating pain is to be able to accurately characterize its nature. Radiating pain caused by trigger points is diffuse - the pain broadly covers a region. This diffuse pain is described as "scleratogenous", meaning that it is pain referred from connective tissue such as muscle and tendon. Radiating pain caused by a compressed spinal nerve (ultimately caused by a herniated disc, for example) is described as "radicular" or "dermatomal". This pain is confined to a specific area - the area that is supplied by a specific spinal nerve. For example, pain involving the thumb and index finger could be caused by compression of the C6 spinal nerve. Pain involving the outside of the foot and the little toe could be caused by compression of the S1 spinal nerve.

Scleratogenous pain is not specific. A person might complain of pain across the "shawl" portion of the upper back and traveling into the upper arm, experienced "all over" the upper arm. Another person might be experiencing pain across the gluteal region, hip, and upper thigh. Both of these patterns of radiating pain are likely due to several trigger points, localized to the respective areas.

Of course, an accurate diagnosis is necessary to be able to develop an effective treatment strategy. The good news is that although trigger points necessarily represent a chronic muscular process, they may be treated with very good to excellent outcomes using conservative protocols. Chiropractic care is the optimal method for managing trigger point pain. Chiropractic care is a drug-free approach which directly addresses the biomechanical causes of these persistent trigger points and their associated patterns of radiating pain. Chiropractic care improves mobility and restores function, helping to reduce and resolve chronic pain.

Chiropractic Care and Trigger Points

Trigger points associated with lower back and leg pain are commonly found the iliotibial band (near the upper thigh), as well as in muscles near the hip and buttocks, including the psoas, gluteus maximus, and piriformis. Trigger points associated with neck, upper back, and arm pain are commonly found muscles near the upper back and neck such as the the shawl portion of the trapezius muscle, the rhomboid muscles, and the levator scapulae.

These chronic, persistent, localized muscle spasms are caused by postural inefficiencies, biomechanical faults, and stress. Any or all of these factors may be involved. Stress may be ongoing, depending on the person's circumstances, but posture and biomechanics can definitely be addressed and improved with chiropractic care.

Your chiropractor will analyze and identify biomechanical issues, particularly those involving spinal misalignments. A chiropractor will design treatment specifically tailored for your individual needs and, if needed, will help educate you regarding good postural habits and exercises that will be beneficial for many years to come.

Quote of the Week:

2011-08-22T08:36:00.002-05:00

"The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well." - Hippocrates

Exercise of the Week: Low Back Stabilization in Reverse Bridge Position with Adductor Squeeze

2011-08-22T08:36:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Start: Lie on back with lower legs resting on either side of ball, pressing inward with knees straight. Place fingertips on either side of pelvis with elbows resting on floor.
Exercise: Lift hips off floor until body is in straight position, feet to shoulders. Stabilize with stomach tucked in and hold for 5-15 counts.
Rest 30-60 seconds, then repeat for 3 sets.

Topic of the Week: How Posture Influences Your Physical & Mental Health

2011-08-22T08:34:00.000-05:00

Stop! Before you read the rest of this article, check your posture. Is it in the correct position? Or is it slumped? Do you know the fundamentals of correct posture? Many of us do not give much thought to the subject. This is unfortunate because keeping your spine in the optimal position can deliver a lot more than just a pain-free back. Your chiropractor will tell you posture can affect other areas of your body, including your respiratory, circulatory and digestive systems.

New evidence also reveals the close connection between your posture and how you think about yourself. In this article, we look at the close relationships of good posture, pain relief and psychological health.

Posture & Pain Relief
Making the effort to be aware of your posture can go a long way to reducing pain and feeling better about yourself. Incorrect posture can actually cause pain to intensify and persist. New research published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found when individuals adopted dominant, upright postures they were able to endure more pain compared to individuals who assumed submissive postures.

The researchers believe assuming a dominant posture signals to the brain that it has more control of its current condition and environment, and it may cause hormonal changes in the body that boost pain-killing hormones.

Aside from pain, chronic posture problems can lead to joint and disk degeneration and damage to ligaments, muscles and cartilage.

Good Posture Can Boost Your Confidence
While it helps lessen pain, good posture also impacts internal thoughts. Employment coaches recommend job seekers maintain excellent posture because it communicates self-confidence to job interviewers, but new research shows posture affects your internal confidence. The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University recently published a study that showed people who used proper posture and expansive body positions actually increased their sense of power and likelihood of taking action, regardless of their job title or position within an organization.

The authors of the Kellogg study were surprised that a person’s job position, whether at the top of the corporate ladder or at the bottom, did not seem to have a significant effect on self-confidence. Instead, consistently good posture actually had a bigger impact on how likely you are to believe your own thoughts

Ohio State University also published similar findings. In one of these studies, students were asked to write about several personal traits that would help them qualify for a future job. Those students who held upright postures were more likely to agree strongly with the personal traits they wrote about themselves.

Mind, Body & Chiropractic
Of course, none of this research would come as much of a surprise to your chiropractor. Since the early days of its development, chiropractic has always known the power of mind-body communication.

Subluxations interfere with the communication between nerves and the brain. If you have a pinched nerve in your vertebra, your tissues that are connected to this nerve will be unable to properly relay information to your brain.

Chiropractic adjustments improve communication between your mind and body. As well as relieving pain, adjustments reduce both physical and mental stress so you have better overall well-being.

Developing Consistently Good Posture
Posture is the way your body is held in space – whether standing, sitting, or lying down. Certain physical structures in your body line up correctly with your center of gravity. If your body has proper posture, there is a perfect balance to your physical structures, and you are able to hold your body in a healthy position with minimal effort. Ask your chiropractor to assess your posture to see if these anatomical areas are correctly aligned.

You can also help yourself by following these good posture tips.
1. Be aware. Practicing awareness of your posture is the first step to correcting it.

2. Take regular breaks from sitting at a computer. Research shows a strong connection between neck pain and intense computer usage.

3. Check the ergonomics of your workstation or desk.

4. Stretch tight muscles, and strengthen weak postural muscles. Your chiropractor can show you the correct techniques to use.

5. Get regular chiropractic adjustments. When it moves properly, your spine has the best chance to position itself properly.

Keep your thoughts positive and your posture strong, and you can make a healthy impact on both your mind and body.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Low Back Pain During Pregnancy - How Can LWC Help? ~ by Dr. Tom Schmidt

2011-08-18T09:34:00.001-05:00

This week's 'Topic of the Week' is "Pregnancy and Low Back Pain". Did you know that 80% of all pregnant women suffer from pain back? Why is that? Two main reasons:

1.) Biomechanical Weight Transfer – 7 pounds of pressure is added to the lower back for every 1 pound of weight added to a woman’s “belly region”. The average woman gains 10 – 20 pounds during pregnancy. That translates to potentially 140 pounds of pressure on the back! Along with the added weight is a period when the woman “pops out”. What that refers to is the core abdominal muscles give up holding back the pressure of the growing baby, which in turns transfers the weight of gravity on the lower back. This situation is also experienced by the male population commonly referred to as the “beer belly”.

2.) Relaxin – this is a relaxing hormone secreted during the last trimester of pregnancy. Its action loosens and softens joints of the pelvis for the purpose of delivering the baby. This is a good thing. Unfortunately that loosening also allows for low back joints to “subluxate” (misalign) causing the “knife-like” pain in either side of the low back, commonly causing sciatica-type pain patterns into the buttocks and leg regions.

What can you do and how can Life Wellness Center help? Chiropractic helps realign joints that are misaligned relieving the pressure and pain in the lower back. During pregnancy a schedule of treatments are suggested for monthly adjustments, massage for the first trimester every 2-3 weeks for the 2nd trimester and every 2 weeks for the 3rd trimester. We also typically prescribe a supportive pregnancy belt to support the back. Our patients call them “lifesavers”.

One other thing to note with pregnancy and chiropractic is the ability to help “turn” a breech presentation baby. That means the baby is in the “feet down” position. We have had several patients’ babies turn while receiving chiropractic adjustments and massage.

If you are pregnant or know someone who is pregnant and could benefit from this information, please pass this on to them and get in for an evaluation as soon as possible. Call us TODAY at 952-435-5300.

Quote of the Week:

2011-08-15T08:49:00.001-05:00

“When I was pregnant, I felt filled with life, and I felt really happy. I ate well, and I slept well. I felt much more useful than I'd ever felt before.” - Suzanne Vega

Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Stabilization in Reverse Bridge Position with Hamstring Curls

2011-08-15T08:48:00.002-05:00

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Start: Lie on back, lower legs resting on ball, knees straight. Hands can rest on hips with elbows touching floor. Press down into ball with legs, lifting hips until entire body is in straight position, feet to shoulders. Stabilize with stomach tucked in and hold.

Exercise: Roll ball toward buttocks using both feet. As ball comes closer to buttocks, hips should keep still. Curl legs to 90 degrees and hold for 2 counts. Return to start position; maintain a tight abdomen throughout. Repeat 5-10 times.

Topic of the Week: Pregnancy and Low Back Pain

2011-08-15T08:47:00.001-05:00

Pregnancy is a unique and challenging condition – for both the female who is pregnant and for her chiropractor! The effects of major hormonal shifts, an incredibly rapid weight gain (and then loss), and the stress associated with being a new mother all combine to make pregnancy one of the most common causes of low back pain.

The Stats
Low back pain statistics for pregnant females are quite alarming. For the general population, it is estimated that approximately 70-85% of us will experience at least one bout of acute low back pain in our lives. In the pregnant female population, the rate is 50-80% during a 9-month window!
And for those women who experienced back pain during pregnancy, over 60% of these women described the pain as at least moderately severe, and close to 10% said the pain was “completely disabling.”

The Main Cause of Pain
Since low back pain often occurs in the later stages of pregnancy, experts suggest that the main cause of this type of pain in the pregnant population can be attributed to the shift in the center of gravity caused by the growing fetus and the hormonal changes that prepare the mother’s body for delivery of the baby.
It is normal for pregnant women to gain as much as 20-40 pounds during gestation. As the abdomen of a pregnant female grows, postural demands on the body increase. Because of the forward shift in the center of gravity, the pelvis has a tendency to tilt forward, and the lumbar curve also increases. This places greater physical loads on the joints, muscles and ligaments where the lower back and pelvis meet. The two large sacroiliac (SI) joints on either side of the pelvis bear most of this load. With the stress these two joints experience in the later trimesters, it is not surprising the main cause of low back pain in these patients is sacroiliac dysfunction and subluxation!

The Characteristics of the Pain
The pain caused by sacroiliac strain is usually localized to the low back. It can be sharp and stabbing, or achy and dull. It can affect one side, or both sides, and often any weight-bearing activities can aggravate the pain. Although it is typically felt directly over the joints, the pain can also radiate into the buttocks or down the back of the leg, mimicking sciatica. Sacroiliac pain can be differentiated from sciatic nerve pain due to the fact that sacroiliac joint irritation usually does not extend past the knee. This is an important point to consider because pregnant women can also experience true bouts of sciatica caused by lumbar disc herniation or other causes of nerve irritation.

The Challenge
Because of the danger to the fetus, diagnostic imaging of a pregnant female’s spine is not recommended. Therefore, most of the tests needed to diagnose the cause of pain in a pregnant patient are limited to pattern recognition, orthopedic tests, and direct palpation of the tissues.

The Solution to Pain? Your Chiropractor!

Fortunately for pregnant women everywhere, chiropractic care is ideally suited for a pregnant patient. One report indicated that 84% of the women who received spinal manipulative therapy during pregnancy were relieved of back pain!

In a more recent study, 16 of 17 women treated for back pain during pregnancy received clinically significant relief within an average of less than 2 visits to their chiropractor. No adverse effects were reported by any of the women in the study.

Researchers in New York followed a group of 23 pregnant patients who visited their doctors for back pain and found that almost 50% of the patients had sacroiliac joint pain and SI joint subluxations. Of the 11 women who received adjustments to their pelvis to correct for these subluxations, 10 out of 11 reported relief from pain!

Studies show chiropractic to be a very safe and effective treatment option for low back pain. However, in the rare case that adjustments alone do not help, other treatment options may include: postural exercise, rest, medication, or belts and bracing.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Quote of the Week

2011-08-08T07:37:00.002-05:00

“There’s nothing wrong with making mistakes. Just don’t respond with encores.” - Anonymous

Exercise of the Week: Low Back Stabilization in Reverse Bridge Position with Hamstring Curls (single leg)

2011-08-08T07:36:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Advanced

Start: Lie on back, lower legs resting on ball, knees straight. Hands can rest on hips with elbows touching floor. Press down into ball with legs, lifting hips until entire body is in straight position, feet to shoulders. Stabilize with stomach tucked in and hold. Lift one leg a few inches off ball, stabilizing with only one leg on ball.
Exercise: Roll ball toward buttocks using one leg. As ball comes closer to buttocks, hips should rise but not bend, keeping a straight line between knee, hips and shoulders. Curl leg to 90 degrees and hold for 1 count. Return to start position; maintain a tight abdomen throughout. Repeat 5-10 times per leg.

Topic of the Week: Healing Herbs for Pain and Inflammation

2011-08-08T07:34:00.000-05:00

When you injure yourself, your body takes action to heal the wounded or damaged areas. You might think it counterintuitive, but inflammation is actually a necessary part of your body’s recovery process. Without some inflammation, wounds would never heal.
If inflammation becomes severe or chronic, then serious health problems can emerge. Arthritis, asthma, and colitis are just a few of the health conditions classified as inflammatory diseases.

However, are drugs the only solution to dealing with the problems of inflammation? New research reveals that some spices, including those you might find in a household spice rack, might actually work as well as traditional drugs.

Frankincense
You may only know of frankincense (boswellia) from the biblical story of the three wise men, but there is a lot more to the tale of frankincense. It was one of the most popular medicinal remedies of the ancient world, and its healing legacy continues today.

Several species of the frankincense tree grow in East Africa, Saudi Arabia and India. While most herbal remedies usually make use of leaves and roots, frankincense’s medicinal ingredient is the gummy resin found inside the frankincense tree. Today, you can purchase frankincense in supplement form for therapeutic use. It is popular for helping diminish the symptoms of arthritis.

Anti-inflammatory medications used in arthritis treatment often come with serious side effects, which can lower the quality of life for many arthritis sufferers, but several studies have noted that frankincense has few side effects and appears safe for long-term use.

This year scientists at Cardiff University in the United Kingdom used an extract derived from the frankincense species boswellia frereana and discovered the substance has the ability to block pro-inflammatory molecules and prevent the breakdown of cartilage tissue.

An earlier study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy showed patients with osteoarthritis in the knee who received a frankincense supplement derived from boswellia serrata saw improvement in less than seven days.

Two medical researchers remarked in a frankincense study published in Phytotherapy Research, “Due to its efficacy we propose that boswellia frereana should be examined further as a potential therapeutic agent for treating inflammatory symptoms associated with arthritis.”

Ginger
Originally from Asia, this popular spice spread west via trade routes to the ancient Roman Empire. Today, it is a staple ingredient in meals across the globe, but it also has a long history in traditional herbal medicine. Healers prescribed it for gastrointestinal problems, flu and arthritis.

Over the last three decades, medical investigators have studied the therapeutic effects of ginger. Early research discovered it shares some of the pharmacological properties of nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, but with far fewer side effects. Researchers believe that ginger lowers levels of prostaglandins – a compound derived from fatty acids that influences pain signals.

A 2005 study in The Journal of Medicinal Food saw medical researchers remark that ginger “inhibits the induction of several genes involved in the inflammatory response” and “modulates biochemical pathways involved in chronic inflammation.”

Ginger is shown to be effective on pain and inflammation caused by exercise-induced muscle injury. In research that appeared in The Journal of Pain, participants engaged in numerous exercises designed to induce muscle pain. One group of participants received a placebo pill, and another group received ginger supplements. At the end of the study, the ginger group reduced their muscle pain by as much as 25%.

Turmeric
Turmeric is a yellow spice popular in Indian curries. As with many spices from this area of the world, it is also used medicinally. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties should not come as much of a surprise because it is part of the ginger family.

A study conducted by Arizona University College of Medicine supported the hypothesis of ginger blocking production of inflammatory substances and this action may help prevent rheumatoid arthritis.

How quickly these herbal remedies provide relief can vary. Some people notice improvements within a few days, while for others it may take several weeks. If you have gallstones or bile duct conditions, do not use ginger or turmeric. Consult your chiropractor before using herbal supplements, especially if you take medication or you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

"Core Stabilization" by Dr. J

2011-08-03T16:57:00.000-05:00

The phrase “core strength” recently has become popular in the healthcare and fitness industries. Many people spend time and money trying to gain “core strength”, but do not completely understand which muscles make up the “core” and what they do for their body.

Muscles of the core
■Hip muscles
   ■glutes stabilize your pelvis while walking and when standing on one foot.
■Low back muscles
   ■erector spinae-extends your back and keeps you back upright while standing
■Abdominal muscles
   ■rectus abdominus (six-pack muscle) bends your trunk forwards.
   ■external and internal obliques rotate the spine and stabilize during twisting movements
   ■transverse abdominus provides a compressive force which stabilizes the spine and pelvis

Purpose of the core
Our core is what keeps us upright while standing, stabilizes our body before lifting heavy loads, braces and stabilizes our body before we receive impact, and most importantly keeps our body in alignment and functioning the way it was meant to. If we do not strengthen our core, the results can be postural misalignments, pain, and increased difficulty performing simple daily tasks.

How is your core?
Is there a way to evaluate your core before a problem occurs?
Yes! Make an appointment at LWC and ask for a core evaluation.
It is important to stop a problem before it occurs!

BACK-to School

2011-08-03T16:56:00.000-05:00

ATTENTION PARENTS! As we all know, school starts in about a month (keep the cheering down so the kids don't hear). As many of the staff here at LWC are parents as well, we know how important it is that your students are well-prepared for school. That not only include the things most thought of; clothing, supplies, etc., but should also include their physical body as well. Heavy backpacks, poor... posture and sports injuries are just a few of the things that your child may be subject to at school no matter what their age is.

That is why Life Wellness Center feels that is is extremely IMPORTANT for your child/children to get evaluated before back problems start. So LWC is offering a complimentary examination of all students during the month of August. Simply call us to set up an appointment (approx. 30 minutes) to check out your student's posture, backpack and any other issues that may prevent them from focusing on a productive school year: 952-435-5300.

Quote of the Week:

2011-08-03T16:54:00.001-05:00

“Motivation will almost always beat mere talent.” ~ Norman R. Augustine

Exercise of the Week: Low Back Stabilization in Reverse Bridge Position with Hamstring Curls

2011-08-03T16:53:00.002-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie on back, lower legs rest on ball, knees straight. Hands can rest on hips with elbows touching floor. Press down into ball with legs, lifting hips until entire body is in a straight position, feet to shoulders. Stabilize with stomach tucked in and hold.

Exercise: Roll ball toward buttocks using both feet. As ball comes closer to buttocks, hips should rise but not bend, keeping straight line between knees, hips and shoulders. Curl legs to 90 degrees and hold for 2 counts. Return to start position; maintain a tight abdomen throughout. Repeat 5-10 times.

Topic of the Week: Core Stabilization – Foundation of a Healthy Lower Back

2011-08-03T16:52:00.000-05:00

We often hear our doctors, therapists and trainers discuss core stabilization and how integral it is for the function and health of our bodies, especially for our lower backs. But what is it? And why is it considered so important?
Core stabilization refers to your ability to keep your core structure (torso, abdomen and spine) relatively stable as the appendicular skeleton (legs, arms and connecting structures) is recruited to do physical work like walking, running, throwing and lifting.
Consider what would happen if you did not possess core stability. Every time you wanted to move – bringing either an arm or a leg away from your midline to perform a task – your body would be pulled in that direction and you would fall over. If you did not fall, you would most likely strain the holding elements of your joints (i.e. the ligaments) instead, once the load became too great. Not a good scenario.

What are the essential components of core stability?
When most of us think of the core muscles, an image of a bodybuilder’s six-pack abs (the rectus abdominis) usually comes to mind. Actually, this abdominal muscle is the one contributing the least to core stability!
Instead of acting as a stabilizer, the primary role of this muscle is to move the torso into flexion (i.e. curling up into a ball).
The deepest abdominal muscle layer is the transversus abdominis, and it is the prime stabilizer of the torso, aided by several other specific support muscles (the internal obliques and the multifidus). Scientific studies show that before any movement is initiated, these muscles are engaged beforehand, and the transversus abdominis muscles are always recruited first.
If you think of a girdle or corset – those ladies’ garments often worn to cinch the waist and give that hourglass appearance – this would give you a good idea what the transversus abdominis muscle does for the body. When it contracts, this muscle squeezes and holds the trunk and torso quite rigid and allows for the arms or legs to do their job without pulling the body this way and that. You may be familiar with the competitive powerlifter’s thick leather belt - compressing and holding the lower back steady while the rest of the body prepares to lift, clean and jerk up to a thousand pounds overhead. Although this is an extreme example, the function is the same.

What happens when these core muscles don’t function properly?
Research reveals patients with lower back pain have delayed or insufficient firing patterns of the transversus abdominis muscles compared to control groups with no back pain. Although researchers admit it does not prove this muscle delay causes lower back pain, their findings clearly identify a relationship between core stabilization and lumbar spine symptoms. Results from these studies show that by increasing the activation of the core stabilizers, primarily the transversus abdominis, back pain may be reduced or prevented.

Does increasing core stability actually help your lower back?
Recent evidence suggests that it does. Researchers took a group of 39 patients who experienced an initial episode of acute low back pain and then divided them into two groups: one that was given specific strengthening exercises for the transversus abdominis and multifidus muscles, and another group that did not do these exercises.
Follow-ups with these two groups of patients one year and three years later revealed a significant difference between the two. In the group that was given the specific core strengthening exercises, there was a 30-35% recurrence rate of symptoms. Whereas in the other group that did not perform the exercises, there was a 75-85% recurrence rate of lower back pain.
Although a consultation with your chiropractor is your best bet for a speedy recovery from acute low back pain, it looks like an abdominal contraction-a-day can really help keep the long-term pain away!

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Win an iPad 2 or a $200 Visa Gift Card!

2011-07-18T16:17:00.000-05:00

Enter to win either an iPad 2 or a $200 Visa gift card! We are continuing to collect donations for our sponsored team of women (Team "Steppin' Up for a Cure") walking in this year's 'Susan G. Koman 3 Day for a Cure' walk. Donations of $25 will get 1 entry, $50 will get you 2 entries and for $100 donations you will get 5 entries! But HURRY! This contest is only going until July 31st. Ther are tthree ways to donate, go to the team link at: http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/2011/TwinCitiesEvent2011?team_id=176083&pg=team&fr_id=1626, send a check payable to Susan G. Koman 3-Day for the Cure to: Life Wellness Center Attention: Angela Collignon or leave a cash or check at our Front Desk. The drawing will be held in August prior to the walk.

Quote of the Week:

2011-07-18T08:19:00.000-05:00

“Do not undervalue the headache. While it is at its sharpest it seems a bad investment; but when relief begins, the unexpired remainder is worth $4 a minute.”- Mark Twain

Exercise of the Week: Plank Position with One Foot on Ball

2011-07-18T08:17:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Lie on ball, face down. Walk hands out to assume plank position with lower legs or feet on ball. The closer ball is to feet, the more difficult the exercise. Keep stomach tucked in and spine straight.

Exercise: Keeping abdominals contracted, and upper body still, lift one foot/leg straight up. Hold this finish position for 10-15 seconds. Switch legs. Hold for another 10-15 seconds. Place foot back on ball and walk hands back to rest position.

Topic of the Week: A Wry Neck Is Nothing to Laugh About

2011-07-18T08:14:00.003-05:00

Have you ever experienced a kink in your neck that leaves your head tilted and painfully restricted when trying to turn it to one side? You probably had torticollis, or wry neck. This condition can be very painful.

Torticollis is a problem caused by a shortening of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle on one side of your neck. If you experience it, your head tilts toward the side of the tight muscle, with your chin pointing away from that side.

There are three main categories of torticollis:
1. Congenital
2. Spasmodic
3. Acquired

A child with torticollis at birth is considered to have the congenital version. This type is usually the result of a traumatic (and often assisted) birthing process. Although a limited number of cases of congenital torticollis are caused by serious spinal deformations or neurological disorders, sending every patient for x-rays would be excessive, according to some experts. Instead, careful examination of the infant with torticollis, together with a thorough review of the birthing experience, will usually determine the cause.

Most often when an infant with congenital torticollis is brought to a chiropractic clinic, the chiropractor finds a palpable knot in the SCM muscle (called an SCM pseudotumor) on the same side as the head tilt. Chiropractic examination of the cervical spine and a range-of-motion assessment also typically reveal rotary subluxations of the upper two vertebrae. If one or both of these conditions exist, the infant is a good candidate for chiropractic care.

Conservative treatment of congenital torticollis is usually quite successful. Chiropractic adjustments of the neck as well as muscle manipulation and specific stretching exercises typically result in complete resolution of the symptoms within a few weeks. It is important to address these symptoms as soon as possible, otherwise long-term improper position of the head and neck can lead to cranial and facial distortions (plagiocephaly).

If congenital torticollis persists after a trial of conservative therapy lasting 2-4 weeks, the child should be further tested to rule out more serious problems. Other forms of treatment may include head and neck bracing, or surgery, to correct for an abnormally shortened and asymmetrical SCM muscle.

Adults Can Get Joint Torticollis too!
Adult-onset torticollis is usually classified as either spasmodic or acquired. If you have this condition, sometimes your head and neck are not stuck in the same position, but instead the muscles tend to spasm, leading to the occurrence of tremors or shakiness with head movements. In this case, chiropractic care has also been shown to be helpful in reducing symptoms.

The most common form of torticollis is the acquired type, which affects a large number of older children and adults. Although the symptoms are the same as the congenital version, acquired torticollis typically follows acute trauma or strain in the neck region. Whiplash from a motor vehicle accident is one example of neck trauma leading to torticollis.

Treatment for acquired torticollis is similar to that prescribed for the other types.

Your chiropractor will adjust the areas of cervical subluxations, followed by soft tissue therapy for the tight and painful SCM or trapezius muscles. Although treatments often provide relief within a few days, it is important to consider ongoing chiropractic care after experiencing any form of neck trauma. It is common for chronic neck pain to develop following acute injury, and chiropractic can help prevent many of these problems from occurring.

Chiropractic care should be your number one choice for any musculoskeletal condition involving neck pain or alignment – especially torticollis!

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Could your lifestyle be making you sick?

2011-07-15T09:50:00.002-05:00

What is your lifestyle? Not whether you are married or where you live, but rather, how are you choosing to live your life? What choices are you making to keep yourself and your family healthy and well?

It is startling to learn that some of the most prevalent causes of illness, disease, and death – including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes – are all heavily influenced by lifestyle. For example, we don’t usually think of cancer as a lifestyle disease. We think a person is unlucky if they have cancer, and often we have a fatalistic outlook toward news that someone has developed cancer. “It’s in their genes,” we say. Or “stuff happens – the luck of the draw.”

But only approximately 10% of cancers are based on genetics. The vast majority of cancer cases are very much related to how we live our lives – our environment, the food we eat, whether we exercise regularly, and the quality of our relationships. Within the last ten years medical researchers have been learning of the strong correlation between overweight/obesity and a person’s likelihood of developing cancer. It seems that fat cells are not merely passive storehouses of excess energy in the form of fat. Fat cells are metabolic furnaces that spew out a wide range of chemicals, including hormones and inflammatory agents that may often cause normal cells and tissues to become cancerous.

Most people and even some physicians are unaware of these facts. The connection between lifestyle and heart disease, and between lifestyle and type 2 diabetes, seems obvious. But cancer, too, is a lifestyle disease. The very good news is that by creating the willingness to make healthy lifestyle choices, you’re making positive long-term changes in your health and well-being.

Additional good news is that these choices are in your hands. Every day you get to choose a healthy lifestyle or not. Of course, some days or even some weeks just seem to go by without a real opportunity to do things that are healthy. You might be on a business trip in a country where it’s difficult to find good, nutritious healthy food. It might also be difficult to find the time to exercise when you’re on a travel schedule. That’s OK, though, because lifestyle is a lifetime project. If you’re eating healthful nutritious food most of the time and doing daily exercise most of the time, you can take a week off or even two weeks off here and there. The main goal is to be on a healthy lifestyle path the vast majority of the time.
Chiropractic care is an important component of healthy living. Chiropractic care helps ensure that your body is functioning at its maximum. Chiropractic care helps ensure you’re getting the most out of the healthy food you’re eating and the healthy exercise you’re doing. Your chiropractor will be glad to provide guidance on creating nutritional plans and exercise programs that will work for you.

Climbing that Mountain

You may have been considering making positive lifestyle changes for a long time. You’d love to lose a few pounds, maybe more than a few, and you’d love to be one of those people who somehow find the time to exercise every day. It’s certainly true that for people who make their own schedules it’s easier to plan time for exercise and food preparation. It is somewhat tougher for those who work on a more formal schedule and for those who are raising children. But regardless of your specific situation and your specific circumstances, each of us gets to choose how we’re going to find the time to do things that are in our long-term interest.

A truism is that if things don’t get scheduled, they don’t get done. For people very busy with commuting to work and raising a family, finding time to exercise might require getting up an hour earlier each day or going to bed an hour later each night. That’s just one of the many possibilities for “expanding” one’s day. The good news is that once you’re doing this, you become highly motivated to continue doing it because you begin to feel better and reap the benefits of your new health-focused schedule.

Congratulations to Miss Life Wellness Center!

2011-07-11T16:03:00.002-05:00

Miss Life Wellness Center is a winner! Alexis Friesen is awarded the Miss Congeniality award at the Miss Lakeville pageant and first runner up at the 45th annual Royalty Pagent.

(Pictures courtesy of Jackson Forderer of thr Lakeville Patch)

Topic of the Week: New Research Reveals Numerous Benefits of Tai Chi

2011-07-11T15:57:00.002-05:00

Tai chi is an activity that is growing by leaps and bounds, especially among older adults. As more of them retire, baby boomers continue to look for exercise methods that can improve health but have a low risk of injury. Tai chi perfectly fits the bill. The slow, flowing movements of this supple martial art - along with the emphasis on deep breathing - help gently stretch the body, improve balance and slash stress.
New research released in the last two years boosts support for tai chi improving health. Long known for its musculoskeletal benefits, tai chi shows it can help heart patients, stroke victims and depression sufferers.

The Origins of Tai Chi
Tai chi was first developed as a martial art in China over 1,000 years ago. It is closely associated with qigong – an ancient Chinese system of meditative breathing and movement. Practitioners of tai chi seek to cultivate the universal healing energy known as qi (pronounced chee), which flows throughout the body.
There are many different styles of tai chi, but almost all involve learning a sequential set of movements called forms. Each movement within a form usually has both a self-defense application and qi development strategy at its core. As you practice the form, you use meditative breathing to assist in circulating qi energy in your body and focusing your mind.

Martial Art Meets Modern Medicine
And what has Western medicine discovered about tai chi in the last few years? Let’s take a look.

Heart Failure & Stroke
According to research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, tai chi offers several advantages for people suffering from chronic systolic heart failure, which causes the heart to weaken and unable to pump sufficient quantities of blood. At one time, exercise was not even recommended for patients with this heart condition.
The study showed heart failure participants who attended tai chi classes twice a week for 12 weeks reported improvement in their quality of life, elevated mood and stronger confidence to perform exercise-related tasks. The control group, which received health education instead of tai chi classes, had no improvement in these same areas.
Medical researchers at the University of Illinois and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University conducted a study on tai chi and stroke patients. The study authors found six weeks of tai chi practice helped patients dramatically improve their balance control.

Mental Disorders
Our high-paced, frantic world has no doubt increased the rates of depression and anxiety. About 10 percent of the American population suffers from depression.
A group of medical researchers analyzed 40 studies on tai chi and its mental health benefits. They concluded, “Tai chi appears to be associated with improvements in self-esteem and psychological well-being, including reduced stress, anxiety, depression and mood disturbance.”

Musculoskeletal Health
Arthritis is one of the most disabling diseases in society. The George Institute for International Health published a comprehensive analysis on tai chi’s impact on arthritis. After examining numerous studies researchers remarked tai chi helps boost pain relief and improve mobility among arthritis sufferers.
A large study focusing on the Arthritis Foundation’s tai chi program revealed that participants lowered pain levels, fatigue and stiffness.

Arthritis of the knee is a common problem among seniors. In the US, knee osteoarthritis will affect half of all Americans who reach the age of 85.

At Tufts University of Medicine, researchers studying knee osteoarthritis noted patients with this health condition, that participated in a 12-week tai chi program, were able “to reduce pain and improve physical function, self-efficacy, depression, and health status for knee OA.”

According to research by Texas Tech University Health Sciences, a group of post-menopausal women who practiced tai chi and consumed 4 to 6 cups daily of green tea for six months saw improvement in their bone health. The research also revealed this group of women slashed levels of oxidative stress. The antioxidants found in green tea and the stress reduction from regular tai chi may be responsible for slashing inflammation caused by stress.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

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Thank you!

2011-07-11T15:56:00.003-05:00

Thank you for everyone (runners, spectators and LWC staff) who made it out to this year's 2011 Pan-O-Prog races at Casperson Park on Saturday morning. Although a little wet at first, it was a great time. Additional thank yous go out to the staff of Puravida Fitness, the Lakeville racing crew and Mat at Stellar Sounds for the awesome DJ work! See you all next year!

Exercise of the Week: Plank Position with Feet on Ball

2011-07-11T15:56:00.002-05:00

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Start: Lie on ball, face down. Place hands on floor and lift both legs to position body in a push-up (plank) position. Keep abdominals contracted (tummy tucked in) and spine straight.

Exercise: Walk hands forward, maintaining a steady plank position. Most difficult position: only feet are left on ball. Hold at finish position for 15-30 seconds. Walk hands back to start position. Repeat 3-5 times.

Quote of the Week:

2011-07-11T15:55:00.000-05:00

"Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still." - Chinese Proverb

Topic of the Week: The Many Facets of Pain

2011-07-05T14:19:00.002-05:00

For most of us, pain is one of those things in life that we do our best to avoid, get rid of, or try to ignore. Why wouldn’t we? It hurts!

But did you know that pain can be considered a great blessing?

Without pain, you could never learn from experience how detrimental certain things in the environment can be to your health. Without pain, you may otherwise continue down a path that puts you directly in harm’s way. Without pain, and its contrast to joy, how could we ever really know what makes us feel good?

Pain is popular subject these days. A recent issue of a national news magazine was entirely devoted to the subject. Topics discussed included chronic pain, referred pain, intractable pain, and traditional and alternative methods used to treat it. The bottom line: there are a lot of different types of pain, and many different ways to alleviate it.

Pain classifications include:

• Acute pain – immediate onset of pain caused by physical trauma and resulting inflammation. The pain is usually sharp and intense. Intermittent ice and rest are recommended for at least 72 hours.

• Chronic pain – pain that lasts longer than the naturally expected healing time for an acute injury. The character of the pain can be sharp, dull, burning or aching. Consulting a health care professional is always the best idea in this case.

• Referred pain – pain that is felt in an area of the body that is not injured. Chiropractors can help identify this type of pain in patients.

• Psychosomatic pain – pain that is felt in the physical body, with origins in mentally or emotionally charged events. Therapists trained in mind-body specialties are recommended here.

But what really causes pain?

Scientists and medical experts once defined pain as a nociceptive response – which is your body’s reaction to a stimulus based on the activation of nerve endings called nociceptors, and the transmission of this information to your brain, where pain is then felt. However, based on a number of more recent advances in pain research and observation, the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) has created a more updated definition.
“An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage.”

This definition is particularly interesting because it includes the phrases sensory and emotional experience and actual or potential tissue damage. This updated meaning reflects the emotional component of pain. The main point is: If you expect to feel pain in any given situation, most often you will feel the pain – even when actual tissue damage does not occur. Personal experiences, cultural differences, and degrees of fear and anxiety all influence the sensation of pain.

What will you do when YOU have pain? You may try a number of different things until you find the right choice for you.

More of us are seeking natural methods to deal with pain and disease. According to a survey conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), as early as 1997, more people were making visits to their alternative therapists than to their traditional medical doctors.

Based on information obtained from yet another survey conducted by the NCCAM, the use of alternative therapies is shifting its focus to the use of mind-body techniques like relaxation breathing and meditation.4

Chiropractors have been helping their patients deal with pain for over 100 years. The number one reason patients seek chiropractic help is to reduce the level of their pain. And according to a summary article written for the Journal of the American Medical Association (based on the NCCAM data), more people seek a chiropractor to help with their back pain, neck pain, arthritis and sprains than most other alternative healing therapies. Chiropractors know how to identify the cause of your pain. By treating the spinal subluxation, chiropractors also enhance the body’s natural ability to heal on its own. They restore proper alignment and nervous system function, which optimizes mind-body communication. Your chiropractor knows pain. Let your chiropractor help you feel better.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Alternating Arms/Legs Extension

2011-07-05T14:18:00.004-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

Start: Lie on back with arms relaxed overhead. Position exercise ball between ankles so it can be lifted off floor. Keep legs bent to approximately 90 degrees.

Exercise: Holding ball between ankles, bring knees toward chest. Reach for ball and take into hands. Return arms and legs back to starting position. Perform same movement, this time returning ball between legs. Return to starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.

Quote of the Week:

2011-07-05T14:18:00.001-05:00

“Pain is deeper than all thought; laughter is higher than all pain.” - Elbert Hubbard

Topic of the Week: How Do Multivitamins Benefit Your Health?

2011-06-27T09:04:00.003-05:00

Multivitamins are a long-time staple in the ever expanding world of supplements. They have been around for decades and have been the subject of much debate among health researchers. Can multivitamins actually help prevent serious diseases?
The debate is still not over. However, most health professionals agree people in North America do not eat enough healthy foods and frequently fail to meet their daily minimum nutritional requirements. Studies show calcium, magnesium, vitamins C, D and E are especially low in our population.
Other factors also contribute to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Many fruits and vegetables grow in nutrient deficient soil. Today’s produce often has much lower levels of nutrients compared to only a couple of decades ago. To make matters worse, fruits and vegetables lose even more nutritional content during transport and storage.
The support for daily multivitamin use is confirmed by a number of well-regarded medical institutions, including the Harvard Medical School. In an article that appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Harvard medical specialists commented that low nutrient intake increases the risk of long-latency deficiency diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurological problems. Taking a multivitamin with minerals has proven effective at protecting health in numerous studies. Research reveals consistent multivitamin use may help your body by reducing inflammation, cutting the risk of chronic disease, boosting the immune system and protecting neurological function.
However, the National Institutes of Health responded to the Harvard article by cautioning people that more research is needed, and taking a multivitamin does not guarantee protection from developing serious diseases.
Also, multivitamins do not contain fiber and some other beneficial plant nutrients, which is why eating plenty of healthy whole foods is important. Of course, your chiropractor also recommends you exercise and maintain an appropriate weight level.

Everybody Is Different
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to multivitamins. Your age, your sex and your state of health all must be taken into consideration.
Your best option is to talk to your chiropractor before purchasing a multivitamin. He or she is familiar with your health background and can recommend what multivitamin – or any other supplements – would be right for you.

Men
Studies show multivitamin supplementation can benefit men in a number of ways. A randomized, double-blind and placebo controlled study enrolled 215 men between the ages of 30 and 55. After being divided into two groups, half of the men received a multivitamin and the other half received a placebo. After 33 days, the multivitamin group reported feeling less stress, improved mood and enhanced energy. This group was also more successful at completing mental tasks. The placebo group saw no health benefits.
Men should not take a multivitamin that includes iron (unless they have an iron deficiency). Their bodies do not require as much iron as women, and getting too much iron can damage the internal organs.
Women
Research also confirms multivitamin’s therapeutic value for women. A long-term study of 88,000 women who used multivitamins consistently over 15 years showed a reduced risk for colon cancer.
Human Psychopharmacology published a study that revealed women taking multivitamins performed better in extended multi-tasking activities and felt less fatigue. The same research indicated the multivitamin group slashed levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that is a risk factor for heart attacks and stroke.
And in a Swedish study, women aged 45 to 70 who took multivitamins reduced their risk of first time heart attacks.
Children
Like adults, today’s kids do not eat enough fruit and vegetables, and eat too much low nutrient processed foods. Their immune systems face an uphill battle against ever increasing environmental toxins and pollution. Obese children have additional stress inflicted on their bodies by excessive weight.
Unfortunately, many multivitamins for children contain too much sugar and chemical binders. Children should never be given adult multivitamins, as it could overwhelm their smaller livers. Talk to your chiropractor for advice and recommendations about multivitamin options for your kids.
Seniors
Your nutritional needs change throughout your life. As you age, your digestion system becomes less effective at absorbing nutrients. Seniors are more likely to suffer from serious or chronic diseases that can impact nutrient levels in the body. Multivitamin supplementation may be effective at counteracting some of the nutritional challenges that seniors’ face.
* * *
If you are not eating as well as you should, a daily multivitamin may help you to meet proper nutritional requirements. But make sure you are not overdosing on vitamins if you combine your multivitamin with other supplements. If you are not sure about this, ask your chiropractor! Do you have a history of cancer? Talk to your doctor or chiropractor before consuming multivitamins.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes
only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained
herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional.

Exercise of the Week: Exercise Ball in a Supine Position

2011-06-27T09:02:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate to advanced

Start: Lie on back with arms to side, palms up. Position ball behind legs so it can be lifted off floor with hamstrings/adductors.

Exercise: Lift ball just off floor. Pull stomach inward while inhaling and lift head and shoulders. As you exhale, tilt sideways, reaching for ball. Keep arms parallel to floor at all times. Return to starting position, then switch sides.

Quote of the Week:

2011-06-27T09:01:00.000-05:00

“I've found that luck is quite predictable. If you want more luck, take more chances. Be more active. Show up more often.” - Brian Tracy

The Next Ten Years

2011-06-24T09:53:00.002-05:00

What does the future hold in store? None of us can know with certainty, although some predictions are possible. Stock market indexes will rise. Then they'll fall. Then everyone will hope that the indexes will rise again. Hemlines will fall. Then they'll rise. Then in two or three years they'll fall again.

The French have a saying for all this - plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose. The more things change, the more they stay the same. But is this really true? Superficially, it appears as if things have changed a lot in 10 years. The Internet exploded. Cell phones are everywhere. In the United States an African-American man was elected president. Longstanding dictatorships were toppled in the Middle East.

But if we look below the surface, not much is different. Cell phones are primarily used to indulge in time-wasting chatter. The Internet serves three main functions, all of which embody the most mundane aspects of human existence - as a shopping mall, a center for interminable and meaningless gossip, and a convenient platform for gambling and other illicit activities. The U.S. federal government is embroiled in policy debates which have stagnated for more than 40 years. Global geopolitics appears similarly entrenched.

So the French saying gets it right. The more things change, the more they do stay the same. But if this is true for us personally, the existential bind we encounter can have disastrous results. If in ten years our lives are exactly the same as they are now, if neither growth nor development has taken place, what is the point of it all? If nothing I do makes any difference, why do anything at all? Why exert any effort? Of course, many people find themselves in exactly this position. Personality disorders are the direct result of such ennui. Many global pharmaceutical companies have been built on the billions of dollars spent annually on antidepressant medications, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids by millions of people in great distress.

But the next ten years have the possibility of being gloriously impactful.1,2,3 Things do not necessarily remain the same. The actress Betty White has reinvigorated her career at age 89. Jeff Bridges won a Best Actor Academy Award at age 61, highlighting a 40-year career. The 2010 Best Original Screenplay Academy Award went to the 73-year-old first-time winner David Seidler. Leon Russell, the beloved musician/songwriter, was recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Well into his 60s, Russell observed that he had been "lying in a ditch on the side of the highway of life" when he his career was suddenly, unexpectedly resurrected by Elton John.

In the next ten years, for us, anything is possible. But in order to move beyond the "same old, same old" we are required to make a choice. Another old saying, "if it's going to be, it's up to me", remains true today. We need to make choices on our own behalf, choices that will further our growth and development and the growth and development of our loved ones. We can create a spectacular next ten years.

Chiropractic Care and the Next Ten Years

It is very possible to have a rewarding, fulfilling life when one's health is not good. But most people would acknowledge that good health, or at least improving health, helps to make the road much easier. With good health one has more energy, and with more energy one can do more things.

Chiropractic care addresses many components of good health and helps a person achieve good health from a holistic or global perspective. Chiropractic care primarily focuses on the spinal column and nerve system. Improving spinal biomechanics and optimizing nerve system function improves energy levels throughout the body. Chiropractic care helps reduce pain, so you can get more out of your exercise. Chiropractic care helps makes rest more efficient, so you can get more out of your time spent sleeping.

The many benefits of chiropractic care help you achieve higher levels of health and wellness. Chiropractic care supports all your other activities and endeavors in the field of health care.

Run with Team LWC!

2011-06-23T15:09:00.000-05:00

Come run with the staff of Life Wellness Center at the Lakeville Pan-O-Prog Run - Saturday, July 9th. Once again, LWC is a proud sponsor in this annual event. LWC and Puravida Fitness staff members will be running and stretching out the runners. The running course will take you along the beautiful west side of Lake Marion. Race lengths include a 1 mile, a 4 mile and a 1/2 mile Fun Run for kids. Live DJ music provided by 'Stellar Sounds'.

Welcome Dr. J!

2011-06-22T16:36:00.001-05:00

Please help us welcome our new Physical Therapist, Dr. Josiah "Dr. J" Thunshelle to our clinic. Feel free to leave him a greeting here on Facebook or say hi to him the next time you are in our clinic.

Topic of the Week: Facet Joint Syndrome – A Chiropractic Specialty

2011-06-19T21:46:00.001-05:00

You may not have heard of facet joints, but they are extremely important to the well-being and function of your musculoskeletal system.

Facet joints are special articulations in the spine that allow one vertebra to move over another. They come in pairs, located in the very back of each vertebral body (except for the very top vertebra – the atlas). Depending upon their orientation, they will influence the plane of movement that each vertebra will typically move through.

For instance:
• In the lumbar spine (lower back), the facet joints are oriented more front-to-back. This allows these vertebrae to move more easily in flexion/extension – and less in rotation.
• In the thoracic spine (attached to the ribs), the facet joints shift to a more side-to-side orientation, which allows for less flexion/extension and more rotation.
• In the cervical spine (neck), the angle the facet joints assume will vary from level to level. The very uppermost two vertebrae have facet joints that are almost horizontal and a bit dome shaped, allowing for a great freedom of movement in all directions?

The facet joints of the spine belong to a group of joints called synovial joints. These are fluid filled spaces, with a smooth layer of cartilage covering both joint surfaces. Since the joint cartilage does not receive direct blood supply, movements of the joints themselves will create a variable pressure gradient that brings nutrients in and out of this enclosed space. This is why you do not want to have vertebral joint restrictions, or subluxations. Without proper movement, the joint surfaces will not receive their proper nutrition, and accelerated aging or degeneration may result.

The term facet syndrome defines a collection of symptoms associated with these joints when they get irritated, inflamed and/or arthritic. This term was first used in the 1930’s to describe lower back pain that was thought to have originated from these joints.
Since then, researchers have confirmed the facet joints can be a source of pain – as injections of fluid directly into the facet joints can reproduce the patients’ symptoms. On the other hand, by directly injecting an anesthetic into the same joint, the symptoms can be reduced.

It makes sense that facet joints can become painful because:
• They contain a number of nerve endings inside them. These nerves relay information to the brain regarding joint position and movement, allowing for proper balance, coordination, and postural alignment. These nerves can become irritated by compression or inflammation, resulting in pain.
• Facet joints are surrounded by ligaments. Ligaments are connective tissue structures that provide stabilization, or a limited range of motion, to the joints. However, these ligaments are also innervated and pain-sensitive – so, if a joint is moved too far past its normal range, these ligaments can become sprained (i.e. rolling over on your ankle).

What Causes Facet Joint Syndrome?
Although facet joint pain is not always consistent, typically a person with this condition will complain of sharp pain in the area of the facet joint, with restricted movement of the spine – especially extension or rotation. The area involved is usually sensitive to the touch, and often you will find muscle tightness and spasm in the immediate area surrounding the joints.
Irritation of the facet joints is common, and can be caused by a number of factors. Although facet joint syndrome can be caused by acute trauma (like hyperflexion and hyperextension), the most common cause of this syndrome is misalignment of the spine. Focal areas of misalignment, called subluxations, will predispose the facet joint to abnormal stress and strain, which in turn can create inflammation and irritation.
Postural stress and muscle tension can also make it more likely that you will experience facet joint syndrome.

What Is the Best Treatment for Facet Joint Syndrome?
Chiropractic adjustments are specifically designed to alleviate the pressure and pain caused by vertebral subluxations. The positive effects of the adjustment are felt immediately when the joint cavitates (pops). This sound is generated by the release of pressure within the joint, and with less hydrostatic pressure on the intra-articular nerves, the joint is less painful. In addition, with better joint alignment, all the structures that support the joint are alleviated of abnormal stress and strain, and the patient is able to relax. Of course, if inflammation still exists in and around the joint, other measures are usually required to bring down the sensitivity of the joint (like ice or other anti-inflammatory substances); however the positive effects granted by the chiropractic adjustment are usually more immediate, and more long-lasting than other treatment options.
If you think you might be suffering from facet joint syndrome, see your chiropractor!

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Exercise of the Week: Exercise Ball plus Upper Body Crunch

2011-06-19T21:45:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Moderate
Start: Lie on back with arms relaxed overhead. Position ball behind legs so it can be lifted off floor with hamstrings/adductors

Exercise: Lift ball just off floor. Pull stomach inward while inhaling. As you exhale, simultaneously bring knees up toward chest and try to reach both hands to top of ball. Pause at top, then slowly return to starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.

Quote of the Week:

2011-06-19T21:44:00.000-05:00

“It is not what we get. But who we become, what we contribute...that gives meaning to our lives.” - Tony Robbins

Topic of the Week: The Vital Importance of a Healthy Liver

2011-06-13T08:18:00.003-05:00

When it comes to keeping our internal organs healthy, we usually hear lots of advice for the brain and heart. We do not hear too much information on how best to take care of our liver. Although it may not have a high profile in the health media like the brain and heart do, our liver is extremely important to our survival.
The liver performs a number of important functions:
• Filters blood and remove toxins
• Produces substances important for blood clotting
• Stores nutrients for future use
• Processes medicine
• Breaks down saturated fat
With all these essential tasks, you can see how it is key for you to take good care of your liver, but how do you actually maintain the health of this organ?
Today we look at problems that affect the liver and lifestyle changes and herbal substances that can help protect it.

Problems of the Liver
Your liver can be affected by a number of serious conditions.

Cirrhosis
This liver condition is the 12th leading cause of death from disease in North America. Cirrhosis is a progressive condition where scar tissue overtakes normal liver tissue. The overwhelming cause of cirrhosis is alcohol abuse, although other causes, such as hepatitis, fatty liver (see below) and environmental toxins, can spur cirrhosis. As the scarring destroys healthy tissue, the liver starts to malfunction. Making lifestyle and dietary changes can help slow damage. In serious cases, a liver transplant is required.

Fatty Liver Disease
This condition has seen a dramatic rise in our population, and the obesity epidemic can take part of the blame. Fatty liver occurs when this organ is overwhelmed by fat, and its proper function is affected by inflammation. Without medical intervention, this can progress to liver cirrhosis, and even life-threatening liver failure. Alcohol abuse contributes to creating fatty liver as do metabolic problems, gastric bypass surgery and some medications.

However the increasing rate of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease – where alcohol abuse is not a factor – is often associated with excessive body fat. Another consequence of fatty liver is the increase risk for developing type 2 diabetes. In a study published by the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, researchers discovered that people with fatty livers were five times more likely to develop this type of diabetes than those without fatty livers, and it occurred regardless of insulin levels.

Hepatitis
The two types of this viral infection that affect the liver most significantly are hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Hepatitis B does not always show symptoms. It is spread through contact with an infected person’s blood or body fluids. A long term infection of hepatitis B can harm the liver. Hepatitis C is spread through blood and not by sexual contact. If an infected person progresses to the chronic type of hepatitis C, liver damage can be severe. Like hepatitis B, this type of hepatitis does not always show symptoms; the disease can easily go undiagnosed for years. Blood tests can detect hepatitis.

Giving Your Liver a Helping Hand
You can do your liver a big favor by not abusing alcohol, eating a healthy diet and keeping your weight level in an appropriate range.
Are there other ways to help keep your liver running smoothly? Health researchers have determined some herbal substances that may be beneficial for your liver. Although they are natural, these herbal substances may react dangerously with some medications and certain health conditions. Always talk to your chiropractor before using supplements and herbal remedies.

Milk Thistle
The tall milk thistle plant has been used for medical purposes for thousands of years. Physicians in ancient Rome and Greece used the seeds from the milk thistle’s fruit to detoxify the liver and to treat snake bites. Today, healthcare practitioners prescribe it for cleaning your liver and reducing damage from alcohol and some chemotherapy medications. The most powerful therapeutic ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin, which is a robust antioxidant.

Turmeric
Part of the ginger family, turmeric is a spice widely used in India, especially in curried foods. But it also has a long history of medicinal use in India and Chinese traditional medicine. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that delivers most of this spice’s medicinal properties. Like silymarin in milk thistle, curcumin is a strong antioxidant. Throughout its long medical history, turmeric was prescribed for liver disease, flushing out toxins and soothing digestive disorders. Turmeric is available in supplement form, such as capsules, tablets and tinctures. Two recent studies show that curcumin can help slow liver damage caused by non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™

Quote of the Week:

2011-06-13T08:18:00.001-05:00

“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Exercise of the Week: Reverse Crunch with Exercise Ball plus Oblique Twist

2011-06-13T08:17:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Start: Lie on back with hands behind head, elbows out. Position ball behind legs so it can be lifted off floor with hamstrings/adductors.

Exercise: Lift ball just off floor. Pull stomach inward while inhaling. As you exhale, simultaneously bring knees up toward chest and try to touch right elbow to left knee. Pause, then return to starting position. Switch sides. Repeat 10 times.

Topic of the Week: The Health benefits of Stretching

2011-06-06T09:21:00.000-05:00

“Have you done your stretches?”
You probably hear this question all the time from your chiropractor. But why is stretching so important to your health? It all has to do with proper alignment in the musculoskeletal system.

The Musculoskeletal System
Your skeleton is a collection of over 200 bones that give your body its shape and structure. In between adjacent bones you have joints, or articulation, and holding the joints together, are ligaments. These are the main components of the system that gives your body support, protects your vital organs, and allows for the foundation around which movement occurs.
The skeletal system is a static structure on its own. However, when you add muscles you create a dynamic, functional musculoskeletal system capable of performing work, maintaining an upright posture, transporting your body from one place to another, and allowing for personal expression using language and gestures.
With few exceptions (like the movement of the eye or tongue), a muscle attaches to two separate bones. As it contracts and shortens, the muscle creates relative movement of these bones by bringing the two ends of the muscle closer together.
The coordination of muscles turning off and on allow for the complete range of human performance.
Examples include the powerful, explosive movements created by a sprinter’s legs, or the delicate, intricate finger movements of a professional violinist. This coordination is facilitated by a constant loop of feedback messages among the muscles, the nerves and the brain. The length and tension of a muscle determines its capacity for strength and movement. The variable length of a muscle defines the functional range of motion of the joint it crosses, and its capacity to create tension allows it to perform work for you. Although a certain degree of tension in a muscle is necessary, too much tension can create imbalance, functional restrictions and/or pain.

What is Wrong with a Little Tension?
Whether it is caused by stress, overuse, repetitive strain or acute trauma, abnormal muscle tightness is unhealthy for your body. It places an excessive amount of stress and strain on the joints involved, predisposing them to arthritis and early degeneration. In addition, many nerves and blood vessels pass directly through muscle. If the muscle is too tight, this can irritate the nerves or compress the blood vessels, causing numbness, tingling, pain or decreased circulation. Muscles around an imbalanced joint can lead to misalignment or subluxation – this can be very debilitating!

Do You Have a Muscle Tightness Problem?
Your chiropractor can determine whether you have a problem with muscle imbalance and tightness by first assessing the range of motion and sensitivity of the involved areas. Problems in muscles are usually quite obvious, as direct touching of the affected areas is usually uncomfortable for the patient.
Tight muscles located in your spine may contribute to vertebral subluxations. Misalignment of the vertebrae is particularly damaging, as this can cause irritation of the nerves exiting the spine. This can further disturb normal muscle function, leading to more symptoms. Thankfully, chiropractic adjustments are particularly effective at reducing nerve irritation caused by spinal joint dysfunction!

Can You Do Anything to Help Fix the Problem?
Once your alignment has been restored with chiropractic adjustments, you should do stretching – this helps maintain proper mobility, alignment and function. Although there are a number of stretching techniques that have developed over the years, there are two basic stretching protocols: dynamic and static.

- Dynamic stretching involves movement to increase range of motion (like performing arm circles).

- Static stretching involves little or no movement while increasing your end-range (holding a stretch). Static stretching usually involves a more relaxed mindset and can be considered more effective for postural muscles.
Dynamic stretching is more commonly used before strenuous exercise. There are also stretching techniques such as PNF, whereby muscles are stretched immediately following a strong contraction - taking advantage of neuromuscular reflexes to achieve better results.
Regardless of which technique is used, the goal is always the same: warm up the muscles first with some gentle calisthenics, then bring the target muscle into an elongated position and encourage it to stay there. As the muscles are trained to stay in their lengthened position, less pressure is exerted on the joints, and a more natural, balanced state will be achieved in the musculoskeletal system.
Ask your chiropractor what stretching exercises would be best for you.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © Wellness Express™ .

Exercise of the Week: Reverse Crunch with Exercise Ball

2011-06-06T09:20:00.000-05:00

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Start: Lie on back with arms relaxed on abdomen. Position ball behind legs so it can be lifted off floor with hamstrings/adductors.

Exercise: Lift ball just off floor. Pull stomach inward while inhaling. As you exhale, bring knees up toward chest, trying to lift buttocks off floor. Pause at top, then slowly return to starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.

Quote of the Week

2011-06-06T09:19:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Week: “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.” - Jim Rohn

Newsletter: Fitness: How Chiropractic Can Help

2011-05-27T15:08:00.002-05:00

Efficiency. It is something we all look for in home appliances or cars. How much energy will this thing take to run? Does the system have any weaknesses? If it’s a used car, we want to know if the car had its oil changed regularly and if the parts have been properly cared for. We know that when one thing is imbalanced, the whole system becomes less effective. The truth is, regular maintenance (getting that tune-up, having that spine adjusted) can play a significant role in overall “fitness.” When all systems are fully supported and functioning properly, we run, work, and play better.

Though it can be difficult to define, physical fitness refers to a state of overall health that includes the ability to perform a range of activities, from a hard workout to working comfortably at a desk, with ease and efficiency. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, there are four interrelated types of fitness that contribute to complete health: muscular fitness, which includes muscle strength and endurance; flexibility, which includes muscle/tendon elasticity and range of motion; cardio-respiratory fitness, which includes the heart, lungs, and blood vessels; and body composition, or the percentage of body fat to nonfat tissues (bones, organs, etc.). Because no one system functions independently, the fitness of each affects all the others.

While it’s important to get adequate exercise, eat right, and treat our bodies kindly to maximize health in all of the above categories, regular alignment or “maintenance” through chiropractic adjustments can be a big step to improving overall fitness. Because chiropractic works toward balancing the body’s systems—bones, muscles, nerves, and organs—through proper posture and alignment, regular chiropractic care allows the whole body to perform at its best, increasing energy reserves as it decreases the stress and fatigue that can result from improper alignment.

In fact, icons of fitness such as Decathlon Gold Medalist Dan O'Brien and Superbowl MVP Joe Montana use chiropractic care to maintain peak physical performance; and the trend is catching on among a number of professional athletes and sports teams. The U.S. teams for the 2002 Winter Olympics were the first to employ an official Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Robin Hunter, and they had one of the best showings ever. Coincidence? Hunter has stated the chiropractic care is all about “correcting bio-mechanical faults and misalignments, and treating injuries with hands-on work, so that the athletes can return to play faster and better.” John Stockton, a pro basketball player that has turned to chiropractic to better his game says, “It’s not just the adjustments, it’s balancing muscles and overall health.” After a recent skiing accident, Schwarzenegger remarked, “I had one of those miracle moments when you call a chiropractor, they care for you and then days later you ski again like a champion on moguls.”

Though it may feel like a miracle, the principle of chiropractic is simple. When the body is well aligned, muscles, joints, and ligaments function together with greater ease. Internal organs aren’t hindered—the lungs and heart are better able to do their jobs. Perhaps even more importantly, chiropractic care helps prevent injuries that can result from overtaxing a particular part of the body that may be compensating for those that aren’t functioning as well. Through chiropractic the body gets a tune-up. We’re ready to roll—more efficiently and with a greater sense of well-being.

How would you rate your physical fitness? Would you like to learn how chiropractic care can help you with your goals?

Chiropractic Can Help Your Body Run More Efficiently

Everyone knows that it is important to exercise regularly and eat right to take care of our bodies. But what if you are in too much pain to be able to exercise comfortably or safely? What if your range of motion is limited by stiffness?

By eliminating the headaches, muscle tightness, low back pain, and nerve interference (or subluxations) that result from misalignment, chiropractic helps the body become less limited in the types of and amount of movement it can perform well.

Topic of the Week: What You May Not Know About Fiber

2011-05-23T08:38:00.003-05:00

We have heard a lot about how we should get plenty of fiber in our diet. It is good for us, right? But what exactly is fiber and why does it aid our health? What is the difference between soluble fiber and insoluble fiber? Is one better than the other? What foods are the best sources of fiber? And how much do we need each day?
Today we look more closely at fiber, the different types, and the research that supports its remarkable health benefits.

Fiber 101
What exactly is fiber? It is a food substance, predominantly found in plants, that cannot be digested by humans. Most fiber materials would be classified as complex carbohydrates.
Because it cannot be broken down and absorbed into our bloodstream, fiber moves through our intestines, helping to remove waste and toxins, before being excreted.
Dietary fiber refers to foods with naturally occurring fiber. Functional fiber is fiber added to a food product to boost its content of this substance.

Soluble & Insoluble Fiber
What’s the difference? Soluble fiber disperses when mixed with liquid, while insoluble fiber does not. But neither form is digestible.
Sources of soluble fiber include:
• apples
• oranges
• carrots
• oats
• dried beans
• barley
• psyllium husk

Sources of insoluble fiber include:
• wheat bran
• corn bran
• seeds
• nuts
• dark green, leafy vegetables

Do not be concerned about how much of each you need to eat. Both forms provide health advantages. Rich sources of fiber usually contain a mix of soluble and insoluble forms.
You should consume a minimum of 25 grams of fiber a day. This amount would be approximately five daily servings of fruits and vegetables and six servings of grain products (preferably whole grains.)

The Science of Fiber
The health benefits of fiber go far beyond than just keeping you regular. Numerous studies show a diet rich in soluble fiber can be vital for the heart. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration allows manufacturers whose products contain at least 0.75 grams per serving of soluble fiber, from whole oats, to claim soluble fiber from this food source may lower the risk of heart disease.
A review of 67 controlled studies on dietary fiber showed increasing the intake of viscous fiber (e.g. legumes, barley and oats) by just 10 grams daily saw bad LDL cholesterol reductions on average of 22mg/dl (0.57 mmol/L) and a total cholesterol reduction of approximately 17 mg/dl (0.45 mmol/L).
But there is more good news. Research shows fiber can lower the chances of developing coronary artery disease. In a group of studies, scientific investigators found that every 10 gram increase in total dietary fiber was linked to a drop of 24% in deaths from coronary artery disease and a 14% reduction in cardiac events like heart attacks. As well, two studies revealed consuming more oat-based cereals helped lower blood pressure.

Assists with Blood Sugar
The large consumption of low fiber, refined carbohydrates in North America and the booming obesity rate have contributed to a dramatic rise in type 2 diabetes.
Fiber may lend a hand in regulating blood sugar in diabetics. A meal that contains a good portion of viscous dietary fiber slows spikes in blood sugar levels. In a large review of dietary fiber studies, researchers found that high fiber diets lowered post-meal blood glucose by 13-21% compared to low fiber diets.
If you currently have diabetes, talk to your chiropractor about good dietary choices and be sure to incorporate plenty of legumes, nuts and non-starchy vegetables into your daily food selection.

Weight Loss with Fiber?
Can eating more fiber rich foods actually help you lose weight? Some research does support this theory. Studies demonstrate people who consume high amounts of fiber are much less likely to become obese compared to those people who consume low amounts of fiber. Fiber makes you feel fuller longer, so you are not as tempted to eat more. One study indicated women who boosted their fiber content by about 9 grams a day cut their risk of major weight gain in half. Have questions about fiber and your diet? Ask your chiropractor!

Disclaimer: Information contained in this Wellness Express™ newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright 2011 Wellness Express™.

Quote of the Week

2011-05-23T08:38:00.001-05:00

“I would not waste my life in friction when it could be turned into momentum” - Frances Willard

Exercise of the Week: Back hyperextension on exercise ball (arms fully extended)

2011-05-23T08:36:00.000-05:00

Lie on ball face down with feet on floor, legs straight. Feet together or apart (feet apart is easier). Back is in a straight position. Hands positioned to side, palms forward and thumbs up.
The exercise: use low back muscles to bring body into a hyperextension position, shoulders back. Reach fingertips as far back toward feet as possible, keeping arms straight, palms out and thumbs up. Hold for 1-2 counts. Repeat 5-10 repetitions.

Newsletter: Rise and Shine

2011-05-12T12:09:00.000-05:00

We all know people who get up with the first rays of the sun. Some people wake up even earlier, bouncing out of bed before there is even a glimmer of Homer's famous "rosy- fingered dawn" in the eastern sky. In contrast, for many people leaving the confines of their comfortable bed is a daily exercise in frustration. They know they "should" get up, they know they should "be on time", but each day they find themselves pushing the Snooze Button "just once more". "Really, this is it," they declare to their spouses and children. "I'm getting up. Just five more minutes."

What is the difference, the distinction, between those who are able and willing to throw off the covers at an early hour and those who struggle mightily to respond to the summons of the buzzing or tootling clock-radio? The nature and organization of your biorhythms - your body's set of internal timepieces - provide a large part of the answer.

The field of chronobiology - the study of biologic time - investigates various physiologic biorhythms. In animals these rhythms are associated with sleeping,1 eating, metabolic and hormonal regulation,2,3 cellular regeneration, and mating. In plants biorhythms are associated with photosynthesis and movements of leaves and stems. Circadian rhythms describe 24-hour cycles. Diurnal and nocturnal rhythms are active during the day and night, respectively.

There is good news for those who would appreciate the benefits of getting a head-start on the day's activities but nevertheless consistently get out of bed 30 minutes late, an hour late, or even later. Circadian rhythms can be changed. It takes commitment and effort, but it can be done. Good health is required in order to successfully cause a shift in one's basic functioning. Will power is not enough, as anyone who has tried to force themselves to get up earlier on a day-to-day basis can attest. A healthy diet and regular, vigorous exercise are key to making any long-lasting change in our biorhythms. Add a strong desire to the mix and long-term positive results can ensue.

Natural Resources:

A person needs energy in order to successfully get up early. Cells, tissues, and organs all need to be doing their jobs. They all need to be communicating with each other effectively. Hormones and nutrients need to arrive on time and in the right quantities. Metabolic processes need to be in tune. New supplies of energy need to be manufactured and delivered and waste products need to be removed. All these intricate processes are under the direct control of your nervous system. Chiropractic care helps your nervous system function at peak efficiency. By restoring more normal mobility to your spinal column, chiropractic care directly optimizes activities within your nervous system. As a result, cells, tissues, and organs function more effectively and your body now has the energy it needs to wake up early - healthy, refreshed, and ready to go!