Archive for November, 2008

Terminally Tired.

29 November 2008

Terminally tired.

Turkey is on our brains and bellies right now, as we wave bye-bye to the Thanksgiving holiday and get ready to welcome the Christmas holidays, turkey is the main protein for many from Nov 27th to Jan 1st.  It is said that tryptophan, an amino acid naturally found in turkey, causes us to feel sleepier and more tired than we usually would. Apparently it’s actually not the case, according to How Stuff Works “nutritionists and other experts say that the tryptophan in turkey probably won’t trigger the body to produce more seroton¬in because tryptophan works best on an empty stomach. The tryptophan in a Thanksgiving turkey has to vie with all the other amino acids that the body is trying to use. So only part of the tryptophan makes it to the brain to help produce serotonin.” that’s fine, I am still going to blame the tryptophan, but what of the ther 11 months of the year? My brain fogs and general forgetfulness seem to be a daily battle.  After one more afternoon of slugging my way past 4 pm, I decided to do a little research on ways to beat those afternoon, morning, and early evening blues without just losing the turkey.

Always first and foremost on every list is water, always water, water, water. Drink, drink, drink.  It is like a broken record, 8 ounces of water at least 8 times a day. “If you’re looking for a little pick-me-up, don’t reach for your usual double espresso. Instead try drinking two glasses of water. The caffeine in coffee and soda may temporarily make you feel more alert, but in the long run will make you even more tired by dehydrating your muscles and constricting your blood vessels.” Brainz.

Puzzles: Who knew, spending an afternoon with Soduku doesn’t just make everyone around you think you are smart; in the long run it actually may make you so! Or at least stave off the effects of dementia or Alzheimer’s. Brainz: “Studies with dementia patients have shown that playing word games and puzzles can increase and even restore mental cognitive abilities. The crossword, a pub quiz, or Soduku: all these fun activities can keep your grey matter in the pink. And the best part is that you don’t actually need to know anything. This is one instance where winning doesn’t matter, because your brain responds to the attempt to solve the problem, not the knowledge stored in your head. Probably the best brain games are those with strategic goals like Chess, Risk, and Stratego, as the objectives are in a constant flux, and require more activity from the brain.”

Exercise: Always on the list with water. Send oxygen to your brain, exercise your heart muscles, expand your lungs, and your body responds with renewed energy. Aim for 30 minutes a day, even if you are just taking a walk with the dog.

What are you taking? Check those medicines your doctor prescribed for you. Some medications, particularly anti-depressants or anti-anxiety pills, are known to cause tiredness and fogginess as a side-effect of their use. However, it could be the way the medicine affects just you not the general population, or it could be an interaction with something you are already taking. Check the report your pharmacist gives you, or get online to the manufacturers website. If you noticed the symptoms after you started a new medication or even added a medication this may be your problem.

Eat right, that means healthy, fresh fruit, veggies, protein. Your brain consumes about 20 percent of the body’s energy, and you get energy from food. If you put the wrong fuel in your body, your body’s not going to work properly. In general, try avoiding sugar and sugar-containing products, particularly those high-fructose corn syrup sodas and sweets, but also white bread, pasta, and white rice, which are the most common culprits related to brain fog. These over processed, pre-packaged foods are metabolized very quickly which will cause a spike in our blood sugar, but then it will drop rapidly, this cycle naturally makes you tired which has a side-effect we think of as brain fog. It can also lead to additional health complications such as diabetes and obesity.

Try peppermint. Keep peppermints in your pocket or on your desk. Many of us know that peppermint is good for a stomach upset and can even freshen the breath (thank you Altoids) — for a little while, anyway. Now scientists in the U.S. are claiming that it also increases alertness by as much as one-third. More, it reduces tiredness by 15%, they say. Peppermint is obviously an herb you should have on your shelf, not to mention a box of mint teabags.

Fish oil: These fatty acids keep the dopamine levels in the brain high, increase neuronal growth in the frontal cortex of the brain, and increase cerebral circulation. Which is a complicated way of saying that fatty acids make your brain work at top efficiency, kinda like a tune-up. But before you stockpile your pantry with tuna, remember that eating large amounts of fish can put you at risk to toxins and mercury poisoning. So it’s better to get EPA and DHA from alternative sources and supplements. Brainz

Sleep: You have to sleep to function, the less sleep the more irritable, and tired, you feel. You are likely to be moody and experience gross impairment of brain function which will include reduced reasoning and lack of judgment. Children who do not sleep often have behavioral problems and developmental delays. Adults should aim for 8 hours of sleep every night, children need between 8 and 12 hours depending on their age.

Make an adjustment: Stay Alert ~ Stay healthy ~ Be Happy.

Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan at 303.674.1500 or email office@fontanachiro.com
Fontana Family Chiropractic, Evergreen, Colorado.

New Year’s come early!

24 November 2008

Resolutions can be made anytime, but often we really like to wait until we can call them ’New Year’ resolutions. If you want to make changes to your lifestyle, any time would be a good time not just January. You can resolve to change any time of the year.

Why wait? If you plan on starting an exercise routine after the holidays, think instead about starting now. If you already plan on making a commitment to get fit, or lose weight, why wait 8 weeks? By starting today you might even be at your goal by the time New Years comes around.

Why do we think that we will have the motivation 8 weeks from now if we can’t find it today. Besides imagine how less guilty we will feel eating all that holiday fare, and not having the additional weight from the holidays to lose. Even with all the best intentions you still might need a plan to be a success.

First off make a list of things you enjoy such as walking, dancing, aerobics, solo sports, tennis etc. and then make a list of your goals. Match them together, start small and make your first goal very achievable, such as 30 minutes of sustained treadmill training by the end of the second week. Maybe your goal is to lose 2 pounds in the first week, or whatever it might be, you can make it anything that is as achievable to help keep your motivation in place.

Second make a commitment to yourself. Agree with yourself that you will do your best to maintain not just get started. Decide on your reasons for wanting to lose weight or get fit, and make sure it includes doing it for YOU, not other people.

Thirdly pace yourself. Don’t spend the first day at the gym hitting all the machines and an aerobics class. Aim for 30 minutes on the eliptical trainer or treadmill, or maybe just a yoga class. Remember, start small and make giant leaps, start big and collapse in a heap!

Chart your progress. Calculate your BMI and your weight, use one of the multitude of free online websites to track your goal, you can even add a ticker to your desktop. Pat yourself on the back when you make a goal, no matter how small.

There is no way around the 5th part of the plan, learn all you can about healthy eating, and start making changes. Get rid of the soda and chips, say no to ice-cream after supper and snack on something like jello and fat free cool whip instead. It will make you feel like you didn’t skimp on desert.

Which brings us to the next point: Treat yourself (no not to a giant chocolate cake) but to something you enjoy, a massage, a bubble-bath, a new book, something to make you feel like you are taking care of yourself, and not just in the healthy eating and exercise but in a ’i love myself’ way, yes even the guys. Both sexes end up overweight by eating badly and not taking care of themselves.

Every single exercise and healthy eating plan includes water, water, water. Drink at least 8 ounces 8 times a day, if possible sip 16 ounce glasses of water all day long, and aim to drink one full glass an hour during the day. It will cleanse, rejuvenate and give you energy. Dehydration can cause sluggishness, tiredness, foggy feelings, constipation, poor digestion and a whole manner of other things. Stay hydrated, and feel the difference.

Find a partner, someone who is as motivated as you. Think of things to do together and get on the exercise kick together. You can try dancing, mall walking, dog walking, tennis, but make it fun. If you have someone relying on you its much harder to sit on the couch – no one likes to let people down.

Once you have met your initial goals, you can make bigger ones, keep the momentum going. Hire a trainer, not for an extended period but for one or two sessions to mix it up, to give you some renewed energy and allow you to learn some new tricks. Try cross training which involves walking for 5 minutes, running for 2 minutes, jog for 4 minutes, walk for 2 minutes, run for 3 minutes, jog for 5 minutes, keep mixing it up. Your heart will enjoy the quick bursts of extra speed, and it makes 30 minutes go by really fast.

Don’t get discouraged by your weight after you have have been training for a little while. If you do gain weight at this point its quite possibly muscle, unless of course you have been eating that chocolate cake. By now we all should know that muscle weighs more than fat. Try on your favorite pants, are they still snug or is there room to move? That’s your progress.

If you are a person who gets bored easily, try all the classes at the gym, don’t be afraid to experiment. However, if you are someone who likes a routine, go with it, select 2 or 3 classes a week that work for your schedule. Having a fixed time can often motivate you to get out and do it even when you are tired or just don’t want to go and exercise.

Whatever it takes, get out there, get moving and feed your body fuel, not junk. You will see and feel a difference.

Remember to consult a doctor before starting any new exercise regime.

Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan at 303.674.1500 or email office@fontanachiro.com

Make an adjustment: Stay healthy ~ be happy!

Vertigo, intervention that may help you.

22 November 2008

Migraine: Not just a headache.

In January I had a 6 week vertigo episode. It finally went away but 2 weeks later it was back. Over the past 10 months I have continued to have intermittent episodes of vertigo, usually lasting about 2-3 days and starting when I get out of bed in the morning. Over the 2-3 days the spinning will fade in and out in intensity but it is always present. I went to my M.D. and from there started the trip down the road of the ‘mystery’ vertigo diagnosis. Vertigo can be caused by a plethora of diseases, but it seems it can also be a lone symptom of nothing.
 
The first question I was always asked is -: vertigo or dizziness? It seems dizziness is defined more as a light headed feeling, vertigo is the true, “I drank too much,” “no, don’t move!”, spinning sensation that induces nausea from the sheer strength of the sensation.
 
According to the Neurology Channel: Vertigo, or dizziness, is a symptom, not a disease. The term vertigo refers to the sensation of spinning or whirling that occurs as a result of a disturbance in balance (equilibrium). It also may be used to describe feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, faintness, and unsteadiness. The sensation of movement is called subjective vertigo and the perception of movement in surrounding objects is called objective vertigo. I had/have subjective vertigo.
 
My first referral was to an ENT specialist, and it was a truly physically distressing appointment. They did put me through vestibular testing, which entailed deliberately pumping air into both my ears to cause the vertigo to come on strong. It was an awful, although necessary, part of the testing. After checking my gait, having me do some physical exercises while they watched, and the results from the vestibular testing, there were no answers! I was sent back to my GP to request a referral to a neurologist. The first ENT could not distinguish the cause of my dizziness. Still thinking I had some kind of ear issue I asked to be referred to a new ENT, and this time the testing was more extensive and also involved a hearing test. They repeated the vestibular testing. This new ENT Dr. suggested it might be a case of Meniere’s“There are two “atypical” forms of Meniere’s Disease, in which there are three (rather than four) symptoms.”Atypical” is one word, where the initial letter “a” means “not.”  Therefore, “atypical” means “not typical.”  One “atypical” form is “cochlear Meniere’s Disease” (also called “cochlear hydrops”), the symptoms of which are (1) episodic, fluctuating hearing loss, (2) episodic, fluctuating tinnitus, and (3) episodic, fluctuating aural fullness; there is no episodic, fluctuating rotational vertigo (dizziness) in this “atypical” form of Meniere’s Disease.  The other “atypical” form is “vestibular Meniere’s Disease” (also called “vestibular hydrops”), the symptoms of which are (1) episodic, fluctuating rotational vertigo, (2) episodic, fluctuating tinnitus, and (3) episodic, fluctuating aural fullness; there is no episodic, fluctuating hearing loss in this “atypical” form of Meniere’s Disease.  Some, but not all, patients who start out with atypical Meniere’s Disease sooner or later develop the remaining fourth symptom and thus develop “classic” Meniere’s Disease. 

I was sent away with lots of information on Meniere’s which suggested reducing caffeine and salt in order to reduce episodes; which I did try for 6 weeks (and in fact have remained consistent with) but unfortunately it was without success in regards to reducing my dizziness. I was then released from this ENT and did make an appointment with a neurologist. Finally after an informative meeting with this neurology doctor, I had renewed faith. After a round of more tests: blood, an new ENT visit, and an MRI (with and without contrast), he determined that A: I have a very bad case of TMJ and B: I have some significant cervical dejeneration and stiffness. His initial thinking was that both or either of these could potentially be the cause of my vertigo. I have had multiple car accidents involving whiplash and stress on my back/neck area. With these findings my neurologist arranged for a course of physical therapy.

After treatment from the physical therapist, and a self-referral to a chiropractor, I did, like many people who choose this treatment, gain some relief; my neck and TMJ is now much better. “Improvement of vertigonous symptoms by chiropractic treatment was often described. The therapeutic effect of chiropractic treatment in 28 patients with vertigo and purely functional disorders of the upper cervical spine or with a combination of functional disorders of the upper cervical spine and the labyrinth was evaluated. Improvement of vertigonous symptoms on patients with purely functional disorders of the craniovertebral joints as well as on patients with combined functional disorders of the craniovertebral joints and labyrinth could be seen. …”  
 
Even with these treatments I was still suffering from episodes of vertigo every 2 or 3 weeks, it became maddening. After a lot of research, and many tests that showed nothing, I began to suspect that what I was experiencing was in fact migraines. My father has suffered from migraines most of his adult life and I have read that they tend to run in families. Also, at this time my homeopath and I decided to try Bryonia, at first just a 30C pill but gradually she increased my dose to 200C. I finally found some relief. The last major episode I had, I immediately took the Bryonia remedy. After an hour my vertigo was gone. I went back to my neurologist and explained that I had taken the homeopathic remedy; I also discussed with him the research on the internet, and what led me to believe I was actually having vertigo-only migraines. For want of a better diagnosis, we decided that I should try calcium channel blockers to try to manage the symptoms of the migraines. The neurologist has me on a 6 week course of calcium channel blockers, 1 every day. So far I have been migraine free for a whole 6 weeks, which may not seem a long time but that is the longest I have been vertigo free since this problem started in January. My migraines are not typical, but I have since discovered that vertigo only migraines are actually more common than many doctors initially realize. I am still working with my chiropractor and my physical therapist in regards to my TMJ and cervical problems, and using Bryonia and Calcium channel blockers to control my vertigo, although the calcium channel blockers are not a long term solution for me.

If you are struggling with vertigo, dizziness or TMJ, call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan to see if chiropractic treatment might be right for your problem.
 
303.674.1500 or email office@fontanachiro.com
 
Make an adjustment: Stay healthy ~ Be happy.

Is the DRX-9000 the solution you have been looking for?

17 November 2008

Do you have a bad back or do you suffer from:

Disc degeneration: Degenerative disc disease refers to a syndrome in which a compromised disc causes low back pain. Lumbar degenerative disc disease usually starts with a torsional (twisting) injury to the lower back, such as when a person rotates to put something on a shelf or swing a golf club. However, the pain is also frequently caused by simple wear and tear on the spine.  It is estimated that 30% of 30-50 year olds will have some degree of disc space degeneration, although not all will have pain or ever receive a formal diagnosis

Herniated discs, also sometimes referred to as slipped discs or bulging discs, are defined as: Herniation of the central gelatinous material (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc through its fibrous outer covering (annulus fibrosis).

Facet Arthrosis is a chronic degeneration of the facet joint cartilage and enlargement of the bony aspects (articular processes) of the joint.
 
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spaces in the spine, resulting in compression of the nerve roots or spinal cord by bony spurs or soft tissues, such as disks, in the spinal canal. This occurs most often in the lumbar spine (in the low back) but also occurs in the cervical spine (in the neck) and less often in the thoracic spine (in the upper back).

Sciatica is a condition defined as pain radiating down the leg, due to irritation of the sciatic nerve and commonly caused by a herniated disc or nerve compression from osteophytes. It is incredibly painful and pain medication such as ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications don’t really seem to help. When having an episode of sciatica it is often hard to sit or stand for any period of time, it is a very uncomfortable irritating condition.

If you suspect you have one of these conditions, or have been diagnosed with one or more of these problems, you are almost certainly looking for some relief from the chronic or severe low back pain caused by these conditions? Wouldn’t it be lovely to just flop down and play on the floor with your kids, or be able to walk further than just around the block or even just spend the day shopping at the mall without being in constant, aggravating and frustrating pain caused by any of these conditions?

There is a solution to these common causes of lower back pain and cervical neck pain, the DRX-9000. The DRX-9000 can offer a non-surgical option for relief from these debilitating back problems.

The DRX9000 system uses a multi-factored approach for relieving disc herniation. As the DRX9000 slowly decompresses the spine, a vacuum is formed within the affected disc. This vacuum is called “negative intradiscal pressure” and relieves the disc herniation which in turn can reduce the pressure on the neighboring spinal nerves. The results are reduced pain and discomfort. This vacuum effect also draws the herniated material back into the disc, along with water and other nutrients and thus aids healing within the disc, relieving the intense pain and discomfort for all of the above conditions and more.

Axiom Worldwide boasts “The DRX9000 is gaining immense popularity among healthcare professionals as an alternative to back fusion therapy and other invasive treatments. Many patients have reported good success with the system and feel it was a better solution for them rather using surgical techniques to address their lower back problems.”

Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan at 303.674.1500 or email your questions to office@fontanachiro.com for a free, no-obligation consultation on whether the DRX-9000 is the right treatment for your back.

Make an adjustment: Stay healthy ~ Be Happy!

Holiday giving can be good for your health!

14 November 2008

So Christmas is almost upon us, the holidays are about to go full force beginning with the cooking of the Thanksgiving turkey. Stores are loaded up with decorations and the holiday sales have begun. But what are you thinking about this year? Is this the year that you choose to join the masses of people who volunteer or maybe you long to make a difference year round? Many people join the volunteer forces at or around the holidays, it seems the differences between people and their community becomes more prolific and harder to ignore at this time of the year. After all, no one likes to think of people spending time alone or a child not receiving a gift on the holidays. According to reports, charitable giving could also be good for our health. Buffalo EDU cites a Canadian study that reported 85% of Ontario volunteers rated their health as good compared to 79% of non-volunteers. Only 2% reported ‘poor’ health, over the one-third of non-volunteers who reported the same health status. They go on to mention other studies where people have reported greater self-esteem, personal empowerment and improved health when volunteering.  Also, consider this report from the Corporation for National and Community Service “Washington, D.C. – Volunteers help themselves to better health while helping others, according to a study released today by the Corporation for National and Community Service that reviews a compelling collection of recent scientific research.”

But what to do? There are many, many options for families and individuals to get out there and make a difference and enjoy becoming involved with your community.

Evergreen Colorado: The organization, Friendship Bridge :”When the founders of Friendship Bridge, Connie and Ted Ning, visited Vietnam in 1988, they were appalled to find the health care system bravely struggling with ancient equipment, little or no medicines, and an overwhelming number of people suffering from highly preventable diseases. Ted had developed an affinity for this struggling population during his tour as an army battalion surgeon in 1970, and he urged Connie to join him on a fact-finding trip to assess the needs of women and children. Women painfully dying of cancer without relief, or enduring high-risk childbirth without the benefit of techniques we take for granted in the US, aroused such compassion that they immediately set out to alleviate the suffering. … Friendship Bridge began its grassroots medical relief project in 1989. The effort grew, and in the spring of 1990 Friendship Bridge sent the largest single shipment of medical relief to Vietnam from the United States since 1975. With a tiny budget and using only volunteers, this tireless, innovative group managed to send several more shipments, totaling over 140 tons. Since 1990 numerous health care professionals have participated in teaching projects in Vietnam. In the early 1990s, many Vietnamese health care professionals visited the US through Friendship Bridge and in partnership with other organizations. … with over 5,000 loans successfully in place in Vietnam, a new loan project was begun in Guatemala. This program continues to grow with over 15,000 loan participants and 9,000 educational scholarship recipients. Friendship Bridge has always listened and tried to respond to the needs of those it serves. … Friendship Bridge has consistently elicited the needs of others and responded with compassion and programs that work.”

This organization takes donations and can direct you to purchase items to directly help the communities listed on their website.

Instead of buying multiple gifts for friends and families who neither want nor need what you are giving, maybe a donation to Friendship bridge in their names might be a compassionate gift that makes everyone feel good.

World Vision: “World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. [World Vision] serves close to 100 million people in nearly 100 countries around the world. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.”

You have an option to make either a single donation or opt to sponsor a child living in poverty in a country of your choice for as little as $30 per month. Again this is another donation/gift that can be given on behalf of others. Who needs another tie or pair of socks when they can be the benefactor of school supplies for a year, or the provider of mosquito nets for ten kids, all for about the same amount of money?

Shoebox Ministries are a great organization and something all the family can get involved with: “Every year thousands of children are displaced from their homes by natural disasters, acts of war or poverty.  Many of these children are separated from their families out of economic necessity or have become orphans.  The season of Christmas can be especially difficult for children who cannot afford to purchase their own clothes or hygiene items, let alone a toy or two.

To address this worldwide need, several Christian organizations have developed special programs called shoebox ministries.  Every year, thousands of volunteers agree to purchase clothing, hygiene items and small toys for these needy children.  All of these gifts are packaged into shoeboxes, along with some money to defray the cost of shipping.  Trained missionaries in foreign countries receive these shoeboxes and distribute them to the children during special Christianity-based services.  …Some churches have already established local shoebox programs, but if you’re starting from scratch you’ll need some professional guidance and start-up materials.  One of the most recognized shoebox ministries is sponsored by Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse organization.  To start your own shoebox ministry, visit their website at Samaritans Purse and look for the Operation Christmas Child links.  … In order to ensure delivery of the shoeboxes by Christmas, local participants are encouraged to begin promoting the program by September or October.” 

If this sounds like something you would like to participate in, try calling local churches to find drop off points or to find locations for these programs, these shoeboxes are being collected NOW.

Angel trees Holiday Angel Tree Program: “The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program provides new clothing or toys for children of needy families. A sponsoring company or corporation places a Christmas tree in a secure, high-pedestrian traffic area or lobby. The tree is decorated with numbered paper angel tags with the first name, age and gender of a child who will receive the gift. Contributors remove one or more tags from the tree and purchase appropriate gifts for the child or children described on the tags. Each year, sponsors ranging from neighborhood associations to private companies volunteer to place Angel Trees in high-traffic areas within their community, organization or office.”

You can find these trees in the big box stores, the mall and even local high street stores and locations. Pull a ticket, buy the gift, drop it with the cashier as you pay, and voila you have made a child very happy this holiday season.

In many locations, The Salvation Army needs volunteers to help distribute the gifts along with food for holiday meals to the participating families. Often times, employees and family members of the sponsoring organization help distribute their group’s gifts throughout their community. Community volunteer and service groups; church groups and retired senior volunteer programs often aid The Salvation Army during the holidays and throughout the year, but more volunteers are always needed.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has this at their website:
The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.
GOAL: The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.
OBJECTIVES: The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation’s most valuable natural resources – our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.
ACTIVITIES: The principal Toys for Tots activities which take place each year are the collection and distribution of toys in the communities in which a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located and in communities without a Reserve Unit that has a Marine Corps League Detachment or group of men and women, generally veteran Marines, authorized by Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to conduct a local Toys for Tots campaign. Local Toys for Tots Campaign Coordinators conduct an array of activities throughout the year, which include golf tournaments, foot races, bicycle races and other purely voluntary events designed to increase interest in Toys for Tots, and concurrently generate toy and monetary donations.

Local churches, rotary clubs, or businesses also have programs for collecting toys and groceries around the holidays and the local food banks are always at critical need this time of the year. Food banks will also accept groceries all year round. Pajama programs, coat drives, the list is endless. If you want to get involved, start calling around, many local churches will take your donations even if you are not a member or don’t plan on becoming one. But consider this, people are in need all year round, think about having fun, making new friends and best of all, making a difference all year not just for the holidays.

Make an adjustment: Make a difference ~ Make someone else happy!
 
Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan at 303 674 1500 or email office@fontanachiro.com

UPDATE: DRX-9000 treatment 2 years and counting.

11 November 2008

An update on my back and the DRX-9000 treatment. It has been almost 2 years since I undertook my DRX-9000 experience. I had ruptured both my L4 and L5 discs and had spent almost 2 years trying to manage the sciatic and back pain. After a conversation with Dr Fontana about the DRX-9000 I located a unit close to my house in NC and committed to 20 sessions on the machine. My medical doctor was quite skeptical, but personally I could not do another round of epidural pain medication and I absolutely did not want to undertake surgery to repair the problem. After almost 24 months it turns out that I am still doing great! After spending close to 2 years in pain and discomfort and trying many different therapies, including physical therapy and pharmaceutical medication to resolve the problem, I found out about the DRX-9000.

I am happy to report that I am still doing fine and my back is as strong as ever. I am now at a point where I am able to resume regular activities with the kids, and not even worry about it. I tend to be a little more reserved still, I am certainly not going to go water ski-ing again but I will jump on the trampoline or help my husband (carefully) move furniture around the house. If I start to feel any discomfort or pain I immediately rest and ice, rest and ice in that order, which seems to work just fine.

I think its very normal over the course of time to feel some over-tiredness in the back area (not be confused with pain), for instance if I spend the day raking leaves, I know my back will be sore and tired, but ice and rest always resolves the situation. I certainly have not felt the intense back pain that came with the ruptured discs since completing my treatment in 2006.

It’s still truly amazing to me that had I not found the information on the DRX-9000 I would have been going into surgery for my disc problem, but with time and decompression therapy I have recovered completely and I am still 2” taller. It seems that all my reservations regarding the DRX-9000 have been resolved. I was concerned that it was a temporary fix, that my back would not be as strong as it had been or that I would only feel mild relief, I am now completely confident that my recovery is complete and as long as I take care of my back as I should have been all along, I will continue to experience the joy of little or no back pain after a day of shopping or playing with the kids.

Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan to discuss whether the DRX-9000 might be the right treatment for you.
Make an adjustment: Stay healthy ~ Be Happy!

Fontana Family Chiropractic Evergreen CO. 303-674-1500 or email office@fontanachiro.com

Chiropractic myths explained.

9 November 2008

Chiropractor myths, ideas, and sensationalism.

Oh I don’t use chiropractors, I heard that it can break your neck, twist your spine, cripple you, rip your tendons, hurt your nerves, ruin your coffee, and make your tuna casserole spoil, as well as other little tidbits of urban myths that send people running into surgery rather than to the chiropractor. A chiropractor who can often make a difference to symptoms you are experiencing and all without cutting into any part of you. How cool is that?

How do these rumors get started anyway? The Internet can be a place of great information and disinformation. Everyone needs to check the sources and if possible check multiple sources before going with an opinion. Just because it’s written and it’s out there it doesn’t make it true.

Myth #1: A chiropractor worked on my niece, nephew, great aunts uncle’s cousin’s mother and they damaged her for life while adjusting her. 
Now having an adjustment can possibly make a person uncomfortable for a minute, but often its more a fear of the unknown than anything concrete. It is certainly not painful or dangerous to get an adjustment. Occasionally a ‘pop’ will be experienced by some people, especially when the cervical area is adjusted. However, adjusting this area can help resolve headaches, cranial or cervical stress, or an aching neck or shoulders, in addition to a host of other problems. The myth perpetuates because it seems like it might be possible and when you first have an adjustment the process is a little unnerving, it’s a new sensation to have someone adjusting the spine and neck area. The facts are: According to a 1993 Ontario Ministry of health commissioned study, (in addition to other research and studies that can be read at the same site) The Manga Report, from the University of Ottawa, reviewed all the international evidence on the management and low cost of back pain care. Pran Manga, Ph.D. concluded that significant cost savings would occur if the management of low back pain were transferred from physicians to chiropractors. He determined that chiropractic is safer than medical management of low back pain. “Many medical therapies are of questionable validity or are dearly inadequate. Chiropractic care is greatly superior to medical treatment in terms of scientific validity, safety, cost effectiveness, and patient satisfaction.” Dr. Manga concluded that “chiropractic should be fully insured (and) fully integrated into the Ontario health care system.”

#2 Myth: The education for Chiropractors is not comparable with Medical doctors.
Chiropractors require 2-4 years of premed undergraduate study, (depending on college attend and the state they wish to practice in) prior to entering chiropractic college.  Chiropractic college is approximately 4-5 years of academic study, including training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, radiology, differential diagnosis, chiropractic adjustive techniques, biomechanics and other health-related studies. Each student also completes several hundred clinical hours of ‘real’ patient management in a clinical setting under professional supervision. Many colleges also require clinical externship programs placed through chiropractic offices. Near or soon after graduation, the new doctor of chiropractic needs to complete rigorous National and State Board examinations, prior to obtaining a license to practice chiropractic. Once licensed, most states require that chiropractors receive annual continuing education to ensure that the highest level of competency is maintained.

For MD’s it takes four years to earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. The course of study is divided into two roughly equal parts. Preclinical study generally comprises the first two years and consists of classroom and laboratory instruction in core subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, pathology, and neurosciences. Once the student successfully completes preclinical training, he or she moves on to the clinical portion. This usually occupies the final two years of medical school and takes place almost exclusively on the wards of a teaching hospital or, occasionally, with community physicians. DO/MD’s are required to have 4 plus years of undergrad education prior to medical school and thousands of patient contact hours during their clinical placements.

#3 Myth: It hurts!
Chiropractic adjustments should never cause pain and actually many patients report feeling relief almost as soon as the treatment is completed. Occasionally if the area you are having adjusted has inflammation or is already sore, the adjustment may initially exasperate that, but with ice and rest it should resolve very quickly. In the case of herniated disks and DRX-9000 treatments, the recuperation and healing will take slightly longer to feel, however your doctor will advise you of the number of treatments it should take before you start getting relief.

#4 Myth: I am too old or too young for chiropractic care.
As spine trauma can occur at any age, and actually for infants their first experience with this trauma can be during the birth process. Modified adjustments can be used on very young infants, old age pensioners, and everyone in between. There are many studies to show that chiropractic care can prove beneficial in alleviating arthritis pain or in helping children resolve ear infections, bed wetting and allergy problems.

#5 Myth: Chiropractors always x-ray you.
Not so, most chiropractors will utilize x-rays only when necessary as they are very aware that over use of x-rays can also be detrimental to our health. For most alignment problems a chiropractor can actually feel or see in your gait where you most need your adjustments, much like a masseuse who can feel the knots in your muscle tissue.

#6 Myth: I don’t want to get naked for the exam.
Actually your chiropractor does not want that either. During an examination the chiropractor is able to make the adjustments while you are fully clothed. We do recommend you wear sweats or loose fitting clothing to your appointment for your comfort.

#7 Myth: Chiropractors only treat bad backs, but I don’t have one, can a chiropractor really help me?
Chiropractors believe that your body can heal itself. All body functions are controlled by the brain, spinal cord and the nerves in your body. When a problem is caused by irritation or pressure on a nerve, chiropractors are potentially the best group of doctors who can relieve this pressure for you.

Make an adjustment: Stay Healthy ~ Be Happy!

Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan with your questions at 303.674.1500 or email office@fontanachiro.com

Recent studies hint that exposure to the toxic chemicals, such as methylmercury can cause harm at levels previously considered safe.

5 November 2008

Recent developments in methylmecury toxicity. Please click on the links to read the articles and study reviews in full at the websites specified.

ScienceDaily (Oct. 30, 2008) — Recent studies hint that exposure to the toxic chemicals, such as methylmercury can cause harm at levels previously considered safe. A new analysis of the epidemiological evidence in the International Journal of Environment and Health, suggests that we should take a precautionary approach to this and similar compounds to protect unborn children from irreversible brain damage.

Philippe Grandjean of the Department of Environmental Health at Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston, and the University of Southern Denmark in Odense, explains that the causes of suboptimal and abnormal mental development are mostly unknown. However, severe exposure to pollutants during the development of the growing fetus can cause problems that become apparent as brain functions develop – and ultimately decline – in later life. Critically, much smaller doses of chemicals, such as the neurotoxic compound methylmercury, can harm the developing brain to a much greater extent than the adult brain.

Methylmercury is a chemical compound formed in the environment from released mercury. Unfortunately, the methylmercury can be transported quickly around the body and may enter the brain. Serious problems will ensue if important developmental processes are blocked as there will be only one chance for the brain to develop.

The researchers point out that until recently research into the effects of pollutants on the brain has been clouded by the lack of information on actual exposure. Moreover, finding a direct link between specific problems with the brain and exposure relies on statistical, or epidemiological, analysis rather than case-by-case understanding. The researchers say that neurodevelopmental disorders of possible environmental origin affect between 5% and 10% of babies born worldwide, leading to dyslexia, mental retardation, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, cerebral palsy, and autism.

The toxicity of methylmercury is well known, but the researchers believe that the medical world has underestimated the risk of brain damage associated with exposure to this compound as well as numerous others. Professor Grandjean emphasizes that little research has been carried out into the effects of other neurotoxic chemicals.

“Until there is enough evidence to rule out effects of certain chemicals on the developing nervous system, a cautious approach would involve strict regulation of suspected developmental neurotoxicants and prudent counseling of expectant mothers regarding exposures to untested substances,” the researchers conclude.

Inderscience Publishers (2008, October 30). Methylmercury Warning. ScienceDaily.

David Kirby posted this at the Huffington Post website in regards to these studies. “One study author, Philippe Grandjean, of the Department of Environmental Health at Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston, and the University of Southern Denmark in Odense, explained how methylmercury is moved rapidly around to many parts of the body, including the brain. After mercury reaches the brain, “Serious problems will ensue if important developmental processes are blocked, as there will be only one chance for the brain to develop,” the website said.

For almost four years, I have been reporting on the possible connection between mercury (in the environment, and in vaccines) and autism — often despite deep opposition and even ridicule from some quarters.

My research has focused largely on ethylmercury — the other organic form of the metal, which is used in the vaccine preservative thimerosal. There is some evidence to link it to many neurodevelopmental disorders.

Meanwhile, at least three peer-reviewed studies (including one funded by the CDC and published in an NIH journal) have shown an association between inorganic mercury (i.e., from coal) and an increased risk for autism. And recent Federal data show that the percentage of Americans with detectable levels of inorganic mercury in their blood increased eightfold between 2000 and 2004.

And now, we see a published study on a possible association between autism and methylmercury.

Make an adjustment: Stay Healthy ~ Be Happy

Call Dr. Paul or Dr. Susan Evergreen Chiropractic 303.674.1500