Archive for December, 2008
Chiropractor Ventura: Pediatric Chiropractic Can Help Your Child's Ear Infections
Posted by: | CommentsChiropractor Ventura has years of experience treating children and knows that pediatric chiropractic can not only help your child’s ear infections, but can improve his or her overall health: The most prevailing reason for visits to a pediatrician is earache. By the age of three years, more than 70 percent of children will have had at least one experience of earache, and about a third will have had more than three incidents. What you might not expect, however, is that earache is also the most common reason for children under the age of five years to be taken to the chiropractor’s office.
How chiropractic Care Relates to Earache and Ear Infections
A pediatrician who determines that a child with an earache has a middle ear infection will normally prescribe antibiotics as a typical course of treatment. Advanced analysis, however, has ascertained that this is often imprudent. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial pathogens, and because the child’s middle ear infection may be generated by a virus, antibiotics are ineffectual. This may be the explanation for a child’s chronic ear infections.
One of the many determinations that a Ventura chiropractor can make is whether the earache or ear infection is produced by irritation of the small nerves in the spine, called free nerve endings.
An abnormal tension in the small muscles of the neck is created when these nerve endings are irritated. Pressure created on the lymphatic drainage ducts as a result of muscle tension can prevent adequate drainage from inside the ear. This problem stops the body from naturally rectifying the problem. Additionally, balance can also be affected.
Inadequate drainage of lymphatic ducts can be discovered by a chiropractor if there is more tension in the neck and paraspinal muscles on the side with the earache. The chiropractor also looks for spinal vertebrae that are either marginally out of alignment or are not moving within their normal range. This problem may have been the result of any one of the many bangs, jolts and falls that almost all children undergo in the early years of their life. Restoration of normal lymph drainage is usually accomplished with a short regimen of treatments that include spinal adjustments and manipulation of the neck muscles. If your child is experiencing the pain of an earache or an ear infection, call your Ventura chiropractor as soon as possible.
Advanced Research and Guidelines
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), ear infection, the most prevalent childhood illness after the common cold, accounts for nearly 30 million doctor visits every year. Furthermore, at least 6 million courses of antibiotics are unnecessarily prescribed for the affliction.Just recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released new guidelines for treating pediatric ear inflammation, and specifically recommended a period of “watchful waiting” since, in many cases, infections clear up on their own, without medication.
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) endorses the AAP on the guidelines and emphasizes that chiropractic management is a “good first option” for treating ear infection conservatively. “Doctors of chiropractic have been treating children for decades with great success – helping them to avoid painful ear infections, antibiotic overuse and resistance, and ear tube surgery,” said ACA President Donald
Chiropractor Ventura on Balance
Posted by: | CommentsChiropractor Ventura offers important information on balance. Here’s what you need to know: Regulating and maintaining body position while staying still or mobile is the most crucial function of good balance. Good balance helps an individual to walk without staggering, arise from a sitting position without slipping, and to climb stairs without slipping.
Approximately 9 percent of adults, age 65 and older, describe having challenges with balance. Good balance is necessary in assisting an older person to stay independent, and perform daily chores and activities. Dizziness, “wooziness,” and difficulties with balance are suffered by quite a few persons as they age.
The term, vertigo, relates to the experience that some people have that they, themselves, or their environment is spinning. About 40 percent of Americans will experience dizziness that is severe enough to go to a doctor. And, among older adults, falls are the most widespread cause of serious injury and deaths.
Balance and Inner Ear Challenges
Three types of balance disorders that are most prevalent are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, labyrinthitis, and Meniere’s disease, but there are a variety of other kinds of balance disorders. Of these three, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most prevalent. Its symptoms involve a brief, intense feeling of vertigo with a change in head position, when rolling over to the left or right in bed or when getting out of bed, or when looking up for something on a high shelf. This affliction is more likely to occur in persons 60 and older, however it can also happen in younger individuals.
There are various causes for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Inner ear infection, head injury, or simply aging can produce the affliction. Often times a simple Epleys procedure can correct the problem, but it can be linked to other disease processes. Your Ventura Chiropractor has many years of experience in this procedure.
Labyrinthitis is an infection or irritation of the inner ear that creates dizziness and loss of balance. It affects people|individuals of any age and the cause is currently undiscovered.
Ménière’s disease is a balance disorder that creates vertigo, hearing loss irregular, tinnitus (ringing or roaring in the ears), and a “full feeling” in the ear.
Though older individuals are more likely to encounter balance disorders, age is not the only cause for why these problems take place. Depending on the cause of the balance disorder, care will vary. A chiropractor is highly skilled in assessing and treating many of the causes. Not infrequently, even simple exercises for vestibular rehab can be the answer to balance challenges. Make an appointment with a health care professional, such as your Ventura Chiropractor, if you have experienced, or are currently experiencing, dizziness, vertigo, or other problems with balance.
Not all balance disorders are caused by challenges in the inner ear. Some may involve other regions of the body like the brain or heart. Other components, besides aging and ear infection, may include head injury, certain medicines, challenges with blood circulation, upper respiratory infections, viral infections, stress, fatigue, smoking, alcohol use, stroke, high or low blood pressure, and heart disease.
Balance disorders caused by high blood pressure can normally be managed by less sodium intake,sustaining a healthy weight, and exercise. To aid in making the symptoms of dizziness less acute, most often eating low-salt or salt-free foods, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, will help.
Balance disorders are dangerous. It is the primary cause of falls and fall-related injuries in older people. It is crucial to have a possible balance disorder analyzed and treated as soon as possible.
If you can answer “yes” to any of the questions listed below, you should discuss the symptom(s) with your chiropractor:
• Do you have the feeling of being “unsteady?”
• Does the room seem to spin around you?
• Is there ever a time when you feel as if you are moving when you know you are standing still?
• Do you lose your balance and/or fall?
• Do you feel as if you are falling?
• Does your vision ever become “blurred?”
• Do you ever feel disoriented, or lose a sense of time, place or identify?
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Call your chiropractor today.
Chiropractic Ventura on Sports Injuries
Posted by: | Commentschiropractic Ventura treats many adults and children who are in pain from sports injuries. There was a time when sports injuries were primarily limited to professional athletes, boys participating in school sports programs, and the occasional male “weekend warrior. Now, more than ever, men and women of all ages participate in regular sports and fitness activities. The vast majority of both sexes play golf, tennis, basketball, and/or participate in aerobic activities like running. Unfortunately, risk of injury is constantly possible with any sports activity.
The majority of injuries can be divided into two fundamental types: injury from trauma such as a slip, fall or collision, and injury as a consequence of overuse or repetitive stress.
Traumatic Injuries
As the name implies, this type of injury produces the kind of incapacitation and debilitation most commonly associated with trauma. A high percentage of traumatic injuries are to the ligaments, the tissue that connects bone to bone, and to body muscles, though fractures and dislocations do take place at times, in particular with contact sports. Damage to a ligament is called a sprain, while damage to a muscle or its tendon is a strain. The most characteristic parts of the body for these sorts of injuries are the ankles, knees, and shoulders, but other areas can be affected including the low back and neck. Because the spinal cord and/or spinal nerves can be involved, injury to the neck and low back can be extremely serious.
A traumatic injury may be relatively benign, such as a “muscle pull” or ankle twist. But, some can be quite serious and require surgery. The severity of the injury depends upon several factors, such as the amount of tearing of the tissues, the location of the injury, and the age of the person. Some degree of swelling occurs with almost all sprains and strains. However, with certain injuries, especially those of the ankle and knee, there can be some internal bleeding as well. Strains and sprains demand appropriate attention, particularly during the initial stages of an injury, to insure complete healing and avoid future disability. Treatment from a competent health-care professional, such as your Ventura chiropractor, is highly recommended.
Listed below is an acronym for the post-injury management of sprains and strains specifically if no professional assistance is available: PRICE
P Protect injury from further damage
R Rest the injured area
I Ice injury to reduce swelling, bleeding, muscle spasm, and pain
C Compress injury with a specifically designed or elastic bandage to support injured tissues
E Elevate the injury, particularly when dealing with ankles and knees
Naturally it is necessary to get the injury professionally evaluated by a chiropractor, or other competent health professional, to ascertain the degree of damage. When proper treatment is given during the various stages of healing, most individuals who have sustained sprain and strain injuries will recover. If not carefully monitored and treated, a sprain or strain injury can bring about persistent joint instability, painful or weak joints and muscles, and lack of mobility. Experienced management of your sports injury by a chiropractor with an abundance of experience in sports injury management will insure that your injury heals properly. If you have sustained a traumatic injury, call your Ventura chiropractor.
Overuse or Repetitive Strain Injuries
Sports such as golf, tennis, and bowling, as well as any other activity that requires the same actions over and over are widespread causes of repetitive stress injuries. Even running, particularly on a treadmill, can produce such problems.
Basically, overuse or repetitive stress injuries happen when an individual is performs a repetitious activity that produces a very small strain to tissues, expressly tendons and muscles, that by itself would not generate a problem, but done many times has an accumulative effect. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most widespread classes of overuse injuries. The pain, stiffness, and disability coincidental with carpal tunnel problems takes place over a period of time as the muscles and other affected tissue establish changes that no longer allow correct function. Certain factors predispose a person to these sorts of injury. Some are “intrinsic,” i.e., the factor is found within a person’s own body. Other factors are “extrinsic,” which means that the factors are external and can generally be changed or controlled by the individual.
Some of the most common intrinsic factors for injury
Age is the most common intrinsic factor for injury. The older a person is, the easier it is for that person to get injured. Congenital abnormalities are another factor. A number of people are born with joint or muscle problems. And, finally, previous injuries are a factor as they frequently prevent the joints or muscles from functioning normally.
Extrinsic factors for injury
There are many extrinsic injury factors. A wrong grip size of a tennis racket, worn-out running shoes, an uneven treadmill surface, or a too-hard surface for soccer are all cases of deficient sports equipment that can cause problems. Incorrect technique in any sport, such as an unsuitable golf grip is, as the saying goes, an injury waiting to happen All sports activities demand a bit of pre-conditioning, which is why people who are de-conditioned who continue to extend the duration of an activity without building up slowly, as well as those who lack flexibility, are injured most often. Lack of warm-up, like stretching and appropriate preparation, is a common factor in injuries. And, finally, but perhaps surprising to some, stress is a factor. Being tired or stressed can cause tense, inflexible muscles that are too tight for most activities.
It is important to remember that almost all factors are extrinsic and, consequently, they are factors that can be individually regulated. Before embarking on a new sport, or as a way to avoid injury in a current sport, it’s wise to get an evaluation of your overall body condition. If you’ve been injured, it is vital to seek out a competent professional, like a chiropractor, to diagnose the nature of the injury and design a plan of therapy. If left untreated, sports injuries can considerably affect a person’s life and limit a favorite activity. Treatment such as joint manipulation, massage, bracing, and specific exercises is frequently required to stabilize the condition. A chiropractor is and excellent source of help. Call a chiropractor if you’re either thinking of beginning a new activity, you’re feeling pain related to a current sports activity, or you’ve sustained a sports injury. Your Ventura Chiropractor has years of experience helping people just like you.
Low Vitamin D Levels Associated With Weight Gain in Young Women
Posted by: | CommentsVentura chiropractor, Dr. Jamie Phillips, reviews an article published online on November 4, 2008 in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, researchers at the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal and the University of Southern California report that postpubertal girls who are low on vitamin D experience weight gain and stunted growth. \”We found young women with vitamin D insufficiency were significantly heavier, with a higher body mass index and increased abdominal fat, than young women with normal levels.\” \”Although vitamin D is now frequently measured in older adults, due to a higher level of awareness in this population, it is rarely measured in young people – especially healthy adolescents,\” Dr. Kremer noted.
Chiropractor Ventura on Pregnancy and Chiropractic
Posted by: | CommentsChiropractor Ventura offers essential information concerning pregnancy and chiropractic. Have you been wondering if chiropractic adjustments are safe during pregnancy? The answer is “yes.” It’s even smart to get adjusted while you are pregnant. You’ve probably noticed that your body is going through quite a lot of changes, and these alterations will continue as the pregnancy progresses. A subtle change is your body’s increased production of the hormone elastin. This hormone is designed to relax the tendons in the pelvis. this easing gives the pelvis more flexibility during the birthing process to make delivering the baby easier.
This process, although designed to help the mother during labor, can produce much discomfort in the months leading up to the birth. The elastin is being released in increased amounts as the months go on, which allows the pelvis to become increasingly more unstable. In combination with the increased size of the baby and uterus, and you have the formula for severe low back pain. As an Ventura Chiropractor, I currently have several pregnant patients coming into my office for symptoms associated with their pregnancy, but most commonly it is for their low back pain.
A bonus to seeing a chiropractor routinely during your pregnancy is that there is proof that it can actually decrease labor time. Why do chiropractic adjustments help? Simply put, if the pelvis is where it needs to be, the muscles contracting during the labor process are more efficient and won’t have to strain against misaligned joints.
To answer the second question from the introductory paragraph, by all means chiropractic care during your pregnancy is safe. Chiropractic is not only safe and beneficial in relieving the low back pain associated with pregnancy, but other symptoms like heartburn, nausea, swelling, and so on. In addition, should the need arise, a trained chiropractor can assist a mother who has a breached baby. This is done by using the Webster Technique, a low force technique to manipulate the uterus and get the baby into the proper presentation for delivery. A simple Google search on the Webster Technique can give you much more information.
In summation, not only is chiropractic safe for pregnant women, it is also very beneficial in helping with the symptoms associated with their pregnancy. To any pregnant women out there reading this, please go to see your local chiropractor, or if you are close enough, look up your Ventura Chiropractor. We can make you quite a bit more comfortable in the months of your pregnancy, and we can even make the labor process easier.
Ventura Chiropractic on Scoliosis and Chiropractic Care
Posted by: | CommentsVentura Chiropractic believes that the more you know about scoliosis, the better decisions you’ll make when it comes to care and pain relief. Here is what you need to know:
A normal spine appears straight, without much deviation from laterally, when the body is viewed from behind. Therefore, if the spine is observed to have a lateral, or side-to-side, curvature, the individual might have an affliction called scoliosis.The disorder shouldn’t be confused with unsatisfactory posture, even though it frequently gives the appearance that the patient is leaning to one side. Scoliosis is a puzzling deformity that is expressed by both lateral curvature and rotation of the vertebra oftentimes creating a distinctive “rib hump” in the mid or thoracic spine. This is produced by the vertebrae in the region of the major curve rotating toward the concavity and pushing their fastened ribs posterior hence causing the distinctive rib hump seen in thoracic scoliosis. If the thoracic curve and rib rotation are severe, more than 70 degrees, pulmonary and cardiac function can be impeded. This degree of curve and subsequent cardiac and pulmonary changes are often seen later in life in untreated severe idiopathic infantile and juvenile scoliosis patients and, more often than not, present a threat to life.
Anatomy
The spine reveals four normal curves: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral, all of which are apparent from a side view of the trunk. The thoracic, in the chest area, has a natural round curve, “reversed C,” called a kyphosis, while in the lower spine there is a healthy “C” curve, known as swayback or lordosis. Hyperlordosis is the term used to describe increased swayback, while increased kyphosis in the thoracic spine is called hyperkyphosis. Changes from normal that are visible from a side view frequently accompany scoliosis changes. Postural exercises can resolve some round back deformities that are simply due to poor posture. A small percentage of people with kyphosis have more rigid deformities than the postural type, which are seen in conjunction with vertebral deformity. This type of deformity, called Scheuermann’s kyphosis, is much more problematic to treat than postural kyphosis, and it’s cause is unknown.
Even a nonprofessional can help to identify a child or grownup with scoliosis just by looking at the person in a standing position, preferably bare-chested and in briefs, and observing the following:
* One shoulder may be more elevated than the other.
* One scapula (shoulder blade) may be higher or more conspicuous than the other.
* There may be more space between the arm and the body on one side when the arms hang relaxed at the side.
* One hip may seem to be raised or more prominent than the other.
* The head is not aligned with the pelvis.
* When the person is analyzed from the rear and asked to bend forward until the spine is horizontal, one side of the back appears more raised than the other.
Once scoliosis is detected, the child or adult should be sent to a health care professional, such as a chiropractor, for further diagnosis. your chiropractor would be happy to help.
There are many different causes and many varieties of scoliosis, but the most prevailing, by far, is Idiopathic Scoliosis, which accounts for nearly 85 % of all cases. “Idiopathic” means “no known cause” and is seen with equal frequency in boys and girls in the mild or low curve magnitudes. This condition can be sub-classified into infantile, juvenile and adolescent categories, contingent upon the age of onset. Idiopathic Scoliosis may be due to genetic or hereditary influences as it often runs in families. Though it is unknown why, girls are five to eight times more likely than boys to have their curves grow in size and require treatment. As the term “Idiopathic Scoliosis” infers, this type of scoliosis more often than not occurs when children are ending their last major growth spurt. Unfortunately, at this age young people are reluctant to permit their body to be viewed by parents and other adults, so it is smart to have this age group observed on a regular basis.
It is crucial that if a scoliotic curve is discovered in a growing adolescent, the curves be monitored for any advancement by a periodic examination and from time to time standing x-rays. In ninety percent of conditions, the scoliosis is mild and does not require active treatment, though| increases in spinal deformity necessitate evaluation to decide if a brace or other therapy is required. In a small number of individuals, surgical treatment may be required.~Surgery may be required for a small number of individuals.
Brace support (orthosis) is recommended for newly-identified conditions of moderate scoliosis or abnormal kyphosis, as well as when an increase in scoliosis or kyphosis is identified in both juvenile and adolescent children. There are a number of types of braces, all made to prevent curves from increasing by acting as a buttress for the spine during active skeletal growth. Braces normally will not make the spine perfectly straight, and cannot always keep a curve from increasing. But, bracing is successful in halting curve progression in a very large portion of skeletally-immature adolescents.
Scoliosis has no simple resolution. Nearly all cases, even though regularly monitored, are not actively treated. The common medical treatment for moderate instances is a brace, whereas severe afflictions are sometimes treated surgically. You may want to see your local chiropractor first.
Specialized exercise, electric stimulation of spinal muscles, nutritional programs, and chiropractic treatments are among a number of modalities used in addition to bracing. It looks as if the most beneficial results have been supported with a multi-faceted approach to the management of this condition.
There are chiropractors, such as your Ventura Chiropractor, that have years of experience treating scoliosis conditions.
Ventura Chiropractor Talks About Arthritis and Chiropractic Care
Posted by: | CommentsYour Ventura Chiropractor understands the pain of arthritis and wants you to understand as much as you can about the disease. Arthritis is generally confusing to most patients.When some people hear this word they anticipate a future with crippled and twisted joints. However “arthritis” is an all-inclusive word that includes many different conditions from the benign to the severe. For our purposes we will confine this discussion to the most common forms of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care
The most common form of arthritis has many names: osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease (DJD), and spondylosis if it is in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the breakdown of the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint occurs when joint cartilage is injured and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is normally guarded by the cartilage. Sometimes, osteophytes, or bone spurs, can ensue when the bone around the joint increases quickly. Bone spurs cause painful irritation to other tissues around the joint complicating the already grievous condition.
The most common areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, especially in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, the hips and the fingers. Previous trauma, certain occupations and activities, weight, diet, and heredity all appear to impact both the onset and severity of DJD.
The symptoms of DJD always involve some degree of pain and/or stiffness in the body part involved. If the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips or knees are involved, ones mobility can be affected particularly in the more advanced stages of the condition. In some cases, if the joint is sufficiently worn and the person can no longer walk without severe pain, the joints are surgically replaced with synthetic devices. Of course, one should attempt to manage the condition early on in ones life to avoid the need for surgery.
The best management of DJD is, without exception, prevention that involves taking care of ones joints at an early age.
* One should always guarantee that, especially when young, all injuries to joints are correctly managed to insure proper healing to avoid future disability.
* People involved in occupations that demand standing or walking should wear proper shoes that offer good support and shock absorption.
* Weight loss through proper diet will help to lessen stress on weight-bearing body joints.
* Avoid kneeling on hard surfaces, such as when doing housework, as this can put strain and cause knee pain.
* Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables as they contain natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are vital for the health of the joints, as well as the rest of the body.
Recently there have been some studies that show that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and may actually help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over a long-term period and does not work in all conditions.
Chiropractic adjustments help to restore proper mobility and function to the spinal joints. Chiropractic care is not only sound, but extremely effective in relieving the debilitating pain of arthritis. Your Ventura chiropractor is highly experienced when it comes to arthritic pain relief. Other forms of chiropractic care may include joint mobilization, massage, ultrasound, cold laser, or electro-therapy, all of which may be helpful in the relief of painful and stiff joints. Sometimes a brace is used to help stabilize the joint in order to alleviate pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.
Gout
An elevated level of uric acid in the blood and the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints create gouty arthritis. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by acute pain and swelling. A large number of people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are more often than not brought on by binge eating of inflammatory foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Particular foods such as red meat (especially organ meat), certain seafood, legumes, and mushrooms contain the natural substance, Purines, that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Since individuals with gout cannot properly metabolize uric acid, the buildup in the bloodstream creates joint problems. In addition to the foods described and additional foods containing Purines, other dietary restrictions need to be followed including the avoidance of alcohol.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is systemic in nature and thought to be created by immune system dysfunction. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, though other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is generally associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Often people complain of general malaise and fatigue, and the disease in its more advanced forms can affect many of the other body systems. There are particularized blood tests to help identify Rheumatoid arthritis that can be easily run. Though, currently, there is no cure, in addition to medication and vitamin and diet therapy, treatment should include chiropractic treatments to mobilize joints and help to relieve the pain and stiffness associated with this disease. Additional modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy, and massage may also be beneficial. Your Ventura chiropractor is dedicated to helping sufferers in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.
Ventura Chiropractor: A Rebuttal to Journal of American Medical Association
Posted by: | CommentsHi everyone, your Ventura Chiropractor here with a breaking story that is imperative for all men over 35 years to read. If you need further information after reading please feel free to leave a comment or question.
Life Extension responds to misleading Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) article
A problem facing researchers today is that by the time human clinical trials are designed, funded, and conducted over multi-year periods, the primary reason for doing the study often turns out to be obsolete. Based on a number of favorable reports, the U.S. Government decided to spend over $114 million dollars to see if alpha-tocopherol and/or selenium supplements prevent prostate cancer. Data collected after five years found no reduction in prostate cancer incidence in men taking these supplements. We have known for over ten years that when alpha-tocopherol is taken by itself, it displaces critically important gamma-tocopherol in our cells. An abundance of evidence points to the gamma-tocopherol form of vitamin E as the most protective against prostate cancer. By supplementing aging men with only alpha-tocopherol, scientists may have unwittingly increased these men’s prostate cancer risk by depriving prostate cells of critical gamma-tocopherol. This is only a tiny part of the real story behind this terribly flawed study. The American Medical Association is now using this study to discredit vitamin E and selenium supplements. An AMA editorial concludes by advising: “…. physicians should not recommend selenium or vitamin E — or any other antioxidant supplements — to their patients for preventing prostate cancer.” What follows are some succinct facts to rebut the AMA’s misleading assertions, along with links to more detailed discussions about what aging men need to do to reduce prostate cancer risk.
Alpha-Tocopherol, Selenium and Prostate Cancer … An Overview
A JAMA study released December 9, 2008, suggests that nutritional intervention (selenium and synthetic vitamin E) does not reduce prostate cancer risk (the SELECT study): http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/2008.864 In January, 2008, as part of our article “ Merv Griffin’s Tragic Death from Prostate Cancer,” Life Extension predicted that the SELECT trial would fail. We also knew that this flawed trial would be misused by the mainstream medical establishment to “prove” to the lay public that low-cost nutrients like vitamin E and selenium do not reduce prostate cancer risk, and by extrapolation, to impugn other low-cost, efficacious nutrients like vitamin D, fish oil, and soy as having no benefit. In fact, Life Extension’s members were made aware of a fundamental fact 8 years ago that all but guaranteed trial failure of this most recent attack against dietary supplements. In the current JAMA trial, men supplemented with synthetic alpha-tocopherol experienced significant gamma-tocopherol depletion. Men supplemented with alpha-tocopherol and alpha-tocopherol plus selenium experienced a 45%–48% depletion in gamma-tocopherol levels by 6 months that was sustained during the course of this 5-year trial. In March 2001, in an article titled “ Avoiding Prostate Cancer,” Life Extension identified the phenomenon of gamma-tocopherol depletion associated with excess alpha-tocopherol. Furthermore, Life Extension identified the critical importance of gamma- tocopherol supplementation in dramatically lowering the risk of developing prostate cancer — in fact, a study of 10,456 men showed that men who had the highest blood levels of gamma-tocopherol were five times less likely to get prostate cancer. In addition, Life Extension reported in the landmark article “ Eating Your Way to Prostate Cancer,” published February 2007, about the importance of controlling dietary intake of arachidonic acid and the grave consequences of failing to mitigate up-regulation of the 5-LOX enzyme by poor dietary choices. To review a draft review of what aging men really need to do to protect against prostate cancer, click here. To review an in-depth draft of a highly technical rebuttal to this most recent attack against dietary supplements by the American Medical Association, click here. For longer life, William Faloon
Chiropractic Ventura and Foot Pain Relief
Posted by: | CommentsChiropractic Ventura can help you with foot pain relief. In general, most of us take 3,000-5,000 steps each day. Add to that activities such as running and aerobic exercise, and we add not only more steps, but stress, to our already overly-worked feet. It is no wonder that plenty of people have aches and pains in this part of the body. Several components influence whether or not a person will get foot and ankle pain, such as flat or over-pronated feet, individual walking and running style, and the type of shoe a person wears. Also these factors can also affect the health of a person’s back, knees and legs. Detailed below are some of the most common conditions that affect the feet and ankle.
Hallux Valgus and Bunions
Hallux Valgus, a slow-developing problem, is noticeable when the big toe or hallux turns towards the outside of the foot, often almost overlapping or bumping into the adjacent toe. In addition, a bump, called a bunion, many times develops on the inside of the big toe. Hallux Valgus pain is generally felt during weight-bearing activities such as walking or prolonged standing, although if a bunion has developed, a “numbing” or “burning” pain in the big toes can be felt at rest.
The joint between the big toe and the first metatarsal (the first metatarsal-phalangeal) is the actual difficulty, and not the bone, itself. It is the damage to this joint that creates the pain and deformity associated with Hallux Valgus. The challenge is generally the aftereffect of wear and tear over a long period of time from factors such as over-pronation that causes aberrant pressure on the big toe and first metatarsal during walking. Another cause of Hallux Valgus is inflammatory arthritis that can harm the joint and cause degenerative changes. A broken toe that does not heal effectively can also predispose a person to Hallux Valgus. Although, one of the more common causes of the problem is the high-heeled and pointed shoes that women commonly wear. These shoes not only put added stress on the joint, but also assist in pushing the big toe to the outside.
If you have symptoms of Hallux Valgus, your chiropractor can examine your foot to determine which factors are contributing to your problem, and then use a range of chiropractic techniques and modalities to decrease pain and improve the function of your foot.
Plantar Fascitis ( Heel Pain )
Heel pain, known as Plantar Fascitis, is a common foot affliction produced by aggravation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that surrounds the muscles on the bottom of the foot . It connects the heel bone to the ball of the foot, supporting the arch, protecting the foot, and absorbing shock.
A frequent compaint by sufferers with Plantar Fascitis is pain when putting weight on their feet in the morning, as well as pain after getting up after prolonged sitting. The pain starts just in front of the heel bone, but can advance over the entire bottom of the foot.
Eventually, irritation associated with the problem can lead to the development of scar tissue, calcium deposits and sooner or later heel spurs. These spurs are a bony growth on the front part of the calcaneus of the heel bone where the plantar fascia attaches and can produce a acute stabbing pain with walking
There are many factors that are instrumental in the development of Plantar Fascitis though people who have other foot conditions, especially Pes Planus (flat feet) and over-pronation are most susceptible. Muscle imbalances between the calf muscles and the muscles on the bottom of the foot are an important contributing factor. Many times the calf muscles get short and tight exerting a strong pull upon the back of the calcaneus. This causes unnecessary stress on the smaller and weaker plantar muscles and its fascia that adhere to the other side of the calcaneus. Wearing high heels will cause a shorting and tightening of the calf muscles, as will running and jumping activities. Other factors that stress the plantar fascia include: sudden strenuous activity after a period of long-term inactivity, abnormal walking patterns, inappropriate footwear, walking on hard or uneven surfaces especially barefooted, and obesity.
People who are steadily on their feet, such as nurses, teachers and waiters, are more disposed to Plantar Fascitis, as are athletes who participate in foot-stressing activities such as aerobics, volleyball, running, basketball, and tennis.
It is often difficult to manage Plantar Fascitis once it has developed, and the problem can become extremely painful and unremitting. Chiropractors are highly skilled in not only determining the cause of your condition, but in recommending beneficial therapy, such as joint manipulation, muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, special taping, ultrasound therapy and, in some cases, orthotics.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis is a painful, and often, debilitating aggravation of the Achilles tendon, also called the “heel cord.” This large tendon is a continuance of the two biggest calf muscles and runs down the back of the lower leg adhering to the heel bone or calcaneus. Injury to this important tendon can make it difficult or even impossible to walk. Most frequently, a debilitating injury to the tendon is the result of an accumulation of smaller stresses that cause small tears over time, but a sudden, single incident, such as jumping, can also be the cause of a serious problem. Because the symptoms appear gradually, in the beginning many Achilles Tendonitis sufferers may attribute the initial discomfort to the aches and pains that accompany age or fatigue. Nevertheless, the ailment will gradually worsen, especially if the person tries to “work through” the pain. In severe cases, a total rupture of the tendon can take place, resulting in traumatic harm and excruciating pain that makes walking virtually impossible and may even require corrective surgery.
Athletes and performers, such as dancers, whose activities include not only running and jumping, but sudden starts and stops, are expressly vulnerable to Achilles tendonitis. Also at risk are women who regularly wear high-heeled shoes then switch to sport shoes for exercise because the tendon and muscles have gradually adapted to the shortened position caused by wearing high-heels. When this comes about, the switch to exercise or flat shoes forces the Achilles tendon to stretch further than it is adapted to, thereby causing stress and irritation. For these reasons, high-heels should not be worn everyday. If they are required, stretching should be done every morning and night to keep the Achilles tendon lengthened.
As mentioned above, Achilles tendonitis is often age-related, especially in men who are athletes. As a person ages, the arch tends to flatten causing over-pronation and increased stress on the Achilles tendon, as well as the calf and foot muscles. Achilles tendon problems are also prevalent in those who exercise infrequently, such as the “weekend warrior” and in those who are just novices at exercise. In both cases, muscles and tendons have little flexility due to inactivity. Therefore, people who are just starting to exercise after a long layoff should stretch properly, start slowly, and increase gradually.
Regardless of how it happened, if you are experiencing Achilles tendonitis symptoms, it is crucial for you to see a qualified professional. Your chiropractor is a highly-skilled professional who can help you to manage the ailment before it becomes severe.
Pes Planus ( Flat Feet )
It is approximated that nearly one quarter of the population has Pes Planus, more commonly known as flat feet. We are all born with flat feet, but somewhere between the ages 3-10 we develop an arch. Although in certain people this development never occurs. There are a number of factors, in addition to genetic disposion that can cause flat feet, or predispose a person to the condition. A person’s job, level of activity, and lifestyle can cause a previously-developed arch to collapse later in life. Age and weight also are a factor in the development of the problem. Middle-aged persons who have been working on their feet for years often experience flat feet, as do overweight sufferers who are placing added stress on their feet and legs.
Some people have flat feet and never feel any distress, while others experience pain in the feet and knees, and occasionally in the hips and lower back as well. If you have flat feet and are experiencing discomfort, your Ventura chiropractor can develop a treatment plan to not only help with pain reflief, but assist in preventing additional problems from developing. Chiropractic treatment includes joint adjustments to improve foot function and alleviate painful symptoms. Your chiropractor may also prescribe arch-supporting insoles, called orthotics, for additional support and stability.
Metatarsalgia ( Pain in the ball of the foot )
Metatarsalgia is frequently called “ball-of-foot pain,” as it is a pain on the sole of the foot just behind the toes where the foot bends during walking. The metatarsal bones extend from halfway up the foot to the toes. A dysfunction in one or more of these five bones is the cause of pain.
While many patients with metatarsalgia feel irritation where their metatarsal bones join their toe bones, some also feel irritation along the entire length of the metatarsals and possibly between them. Discomfort in this area can vary from a stiff feeling upon movement of these bones to a burning or stinging sensation. The amount of pain depends upon whether the affliction is due to a dysfunction in the joints or an inflammation to the nerves as they travel along the metatarsals.
The reason for the condition can be either structural or functional. An example of a structural cause is when the metacarpal bones are either too long or too short causing abnormal mechanics in the feet and too much stress upon this area. Flat feet or too much arch can also alter the stresses on the metatarsals causing similar symptoms.
There are other factors that can affect these bones that are often in the control of the person. These include excess body weight, tight or high-heeled shoes, and excessive or poor running or athletic training. Too much weight and the wearing high-heeled shoes both increase stress upon the metatarsal, which leads to joint pain and nerve irritation. Repetitive foot activities, like running, directly stress the metatarsals by exposing them to constant trauma.
A chiropractor is able to expertly treat metatarsalgia, no matter what the cause may be. After diagnosing the underlying factors, you will be offered a number of non-invasive therapies, inluding orthotics when necessary, and you will be advised on how you can avoid future pain.
See your Ventura chiropractor as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the foot problems mentioned above.
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