Physiotherapy Treatment of Shoulder Fractures

Humeral fractures occur commonly with up to five percent of all fractures falling into this category, eighty percent of humeral fractures being minimally displaced or undisplaced. Osteoporosis is a contributing factor in many of these fractures and a fracture of the forearm on the same side is a typical presentation. Nerve or arterial damage from the fracture is an important consideration but not common. Typical sites of fractures are the top of the arm (neck of humerus - "shoulder fracture") and the middle of the shaft of the humerus.

The usual cause of a humeral fracture is a direct fall on the arm, either on the hand, elbow or directly onto the shoulder itself. Due to all the muscles that attach to the upper humerus, there can be a lot of muscular force at the time, dictating how much the bones are pulled into a displaced position. Humeral fractures are more common in the elderly with an average age of fracture of around 65 years and younger people usually have a history of forceful trauma such as motor accidents or sport.

If the fracture occurred without significant force then a pathological cause such as cancer must be suspected. On physio examination pain will occur on movement of the shoulder or the elbow, there may be extensive bruising and swelling, the arm may appear short if the fracture is displaced in shaft fractures and there is very restricted shoulder movement. Radial nerve damage is rare in upper humeral fractures but more common in fractures of the shaft, leading to "wrist drop", weakness of the wrist and finger extensors and some thumb movements.

Management of Humeral Fractures

After the fracture the patient's movements are kept restricted and sufficient analgesia provided to keep them comfortable. With little or no displacement the management is non-operative but if the greater tuberosity is fractured then it is important to suspect rotator cuff injury. This is more common in injuries with high forces, when the patient is older or the tuberosity is displaced significantly. Humeral neck fractures can be kept in line with a collar and cuff, allowing the elbow to hang free, while shaft fractures are difficult to manage but can be braced.

Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is often performed for displaced fractures with three or four fragments and more commonly in younger patients, while older patients have humeral head replacement to prevent pain and stiffness in the shoulder. Nailing or plating is used in shaft fractures if necessary but these usually heal without surgery. Humeral fractures can have complications including injury to the radial nerve in shaft fractures, frozen shoulder and death of the humeral head due to loss of blood supply. Although normal healing time is 6-8 weeks, older sufferers may never re-establish normal range of shoulder movement.

Shoulder Fracture Treatment by Physiotherapy

Initially the physio assesses the arm, asking the patient about their pain level as this varies greatly, examining the swelling and bruising of the arm. The physiotherapist then checks the available range of movement of the shoulder, elbow, forearm and hand. Any muscle weakness and sensory loss is noted as this may denote nerve damage. If not operated on, a sling is continued with and if the fracture is not too painful or severe, early exercises are started by the physiotherapist. Pendular exercises, with the patient bending over at the waist, are important in the early stages as they allow movement of the shoulder joint without much force.

Three weeks after the fracture bone healing will be well under way so the physiotherapist will instruct the patient in auto-assisted exercises, using the other arm, to help reduce stress on the injury. Unassisted exercises are the next step as the arm becomes stronger, to practice lateral and medial rotation and flexion. At six weeks the bone will be clinically sound so the physio can progress to more vigorous movements with resistance and gentle end-range stretching. Joint mobilisations can be useful to free up the sliding and gliding movements of the joint and strengthening and joint range work continued with Theraband.

What Do You Do If You Have Some Symptoms of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis, a degenerative disease, is not something that anyone wants to experience. In order to reverse the effects that osteoporosis can have on the body, it is important to know what the signs of this serious condition are. Here is an overview of the symptoms of osteoporosis, as well as what you can do once you notice that they are affecting you.

The most important thing that you should keep in mind is that osteoporosis symptoms often remain hidden until it is too late. In a lot of situations, the first and only sign of osteoporosis is a bone fracture. This can happen to the wrist, hip or spine and can occur for numerous reasons. However, some people do experience some symptoms related to osteoporosis before this happens.

One of the main symptoms of osteoporosis is a change in the spine. This is what causes people who have osteoporosis to look shorter and bent over. While it is perfectly normal for height to slightly decline when people grow older, no more than one inch should be lost. If this does happen, it is a common symptoms indicating a person may be experiencing osteoporosis.

Another one of the osteoporosis symptoms that you should watch out for is back pain. There is a strong possibility that this may be an indicator of a back fracture. Back pain also is known to occur when the body begins to curve over. If this is something that you have experiencing, it is best to visit your doctor to schedule a test for osteoporosis.

Note that osteoporosis is a condition that is more likely to affect you as you get older, and so if you are, say, over 50, you should be extra vigilant for observing for symptoms of osteoporosis. But it is also possible for younger people to experience osteoporosis too. So don't assume that if you're younger you are immune from osteoporosis symptoms, be prepared to be vigilant all of your life.

Keep in mind that there are a number of different ways to naturally prevent or treat the symptoms of osteoporosis. Although the amount of bone density that you lose cannot be entirely treated, the effects of osteoporosis can be reversed and further prevented. Some of the ways for this to happen include eating a well balanced diet, staying active and taking supplements for Calcium and Vitamin D.

Osteoporosis symptoms are not something to take lightly. This health condition is very serious and if you believe that you may have it, it is best to talk to a doctor about it. Determining the causes and finding a treatment option is very important to overcoming this degenerative health condition. If you begin to notice any symptoms of osteoporosis, you also may want to implement these natural prevention and treatment methods into your life.

And there are companies, one in particular, which are producing highly effective natural and organic treatments for osteoporosis, so if you're experiencing some of the symptoms of osteoporosis then there are natural treatments available. It isn't always necessary to turn to drugs.

MBST - Magnetic Resonance Therapy

Did you know there is a treatment for Arthritis and Osteoporosis, a treatment that can repair cartilage and bone? You will most likely not have heard about this relatively new treatment but you will because it works.

The technology is called MBST which stands for Magnetic Resonance Therapy. The technology is based on MRI technology. It was discovered that patients with joint problems after having a scan reported an improvement in mobility and relief from pain.

A German company MedTec Medizintechnik GmbH developed this technology to specifically concentrate on the therapeutic effects of MRI and MBST was developed. Fast forward to today and tens of thousands of patients have been treated across the globe including Europe, Israel, The United States and the United Kingdom.

This technology works by metabolising the bodies natural ability to heal. MBST therapy acts on nuclear spin, it generates an electromagnetic field. This is not to be confused with conventional electromagnetic therapies as this technology specifically works with nuclear spin resonance. Don't worry this is nothing to do with nuclear in the sense you may be used to. In fact this type of treatment has no known harmful side effects.

A typical treatment can take up to an hour and involves sitting or lying with the machine acting on the specific part of the body that need treating. This is a cumulative treatment so up to 9 sessions may be required depending on the condition. The resulting effect is that cartilage re-grows and bone re-grows reducing the pain and limited movement associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Conventional treatments for such conditions usually entails a ever stronger cocktail of painkillers. Under some circumstances you may require an operation such as a knee replacement operation.

This is still a relatively unknown treatment and in most countries you cannot get this treatment through your health insurance or health system. You can however ask you doctor or physician about MBST. They may not have heard of it but there are several clinical studies carried out by such doctors as Dr. med. M. Krosche, Dr. med. G. Breitgraf, Prof. Dr. I. Frobose, Dr. med Eckey, Prof. Dr. med. Lucker, Prof. Dr. med. C. Melzer and Dr. med. Handschuh who have published clinical studies on the effect of MBST.

You can find a summary of some of these studies at mbst medical which you can print off and show your doctor. This treatment is not suitable for everyone as once cartilage has completely worn you will probably need an operation to replace the affected joint. If you do suffer from osteoarthritis and osteoporosis it is in your interest to seek a treatment that has no side effects rather than waiting for the inevitable on an ever increasing regime of pain medication.

How to Keep Stress From Weakening Your Bones

Stress and Your Bones

A high stress lifestyle has always been suspected as one of the contributing causes of osteoporosis and other major health problems. Continued high stress levels can also lead to depression or depressive behaviors. Now, recent studies have indicated people with major depression have a lower bone mass density compared to non-depressed individuals. Other studies have found that an extended loss of social interactions and pleasurable activities may have an impact on bone density as well. In light of these findings, it is important to consider two important trends. First, stress appears to be more important than once thought in the healthy functioning of your bones. Second, depression should be considered as another important risk factor for osteoporosis.

Definition of Depression

By definition, depression is a mental condition affecting your mood, thought process and physical functioning. It is characterized by a range of negative feelings such as sadness, loneliness, anger, despair, fatigue, and guilt as well as loss of energy and low self-esteem. Depression may cause you to lose interest in many aspects of life and no longer find pleasure in activities and relationships. Depressive thoughts can cause physical changes in your body that include various pain syndromes and other medical conditions.

The Chemical Cascade Affecting Bone

What is really happening inside your body as the result of high stress living and how does it affect bones? Constant stress promotes an unhealthy hormone shift increasing cortisol and reducing serotonin levels. Higher cortisol levels increase total body inflammation decreasing calcium absorption and increased calcium excretion. Osteoblasts (bone-building cells) are reduced in number impairing the bones ability to renew which is essential to maintaining normal bone density.

The Bone / Brain Connection

The depressed brain sends different signals to your internal organs and bones than a healthy brain. The brain uses the sympathetic nervous system to increase the secretion of a chemical compound called noradrenalin within the bone. Noradrenalin literally has a depressive effect on the osteoblasts. The interleukin-1 protein, which has been known for many years as a stimulator of the immune system, increases the number and activity of osteoclastic cells (bone break-down cells). Stress causes less bone to be created and more bone to be destroyed resulting in osteoporosis.

Bone Balance Destroyed

Chronic stress can now be physiologically traced as a significant player in the creation of osteoporotic bones. By reducing the ability of the osteoblasts to form new bone and speeding the osteoclasts into bone breakdown, the natural balance of bone growth and repair is altered. Effective osteoporosis treatments must consider stress reduction so bone formation and repair can return to normal.

Consider a New Direction for Your Healthy Bones

In light of these recent discoveries it's not enough to just discuss diet, exercise, supplements and medication for the treatment of osteoporosis. The research indicates that effective treatment programs for healthy bones must include mechanisms to reduce the negative effects of stress on your body. Reducing the negative effects of stress on your body helps the cells responsible for healthy bones to begin to function normally once again. In a nutshell, the time spent promoting good mental wellbeing is as important as that spent on good physical health.

Do You Have Bones That Keep Breaking?

Osteoporosis is a brittle-bone disease. This means that your bones are prone to breaking and fracturing due to the fact that the bones are lacking the calcium that is essential to strengthen the bones.

This affects mainly adults- men and women- over the age of 50. Half of women over 50 years old and 25 percent of men over 50 years old will break a bone because of this disease. Also, a lot of times, postmenopausal women are at an elevated risk of inheriting this disease. Overall, osteoporosis affects over 10 million people in the United States, with 34 million more being at risk of developing the disease.

To help give your bones the strength they need, you need calcium, protein and Vitamin D. Protein is what a large portion of your bones are made of. Calcium is what keeps the bones linked together and in tact. Vitamin D helps your body absorb the calcium so that the calcium can get to your bones. To know how much you need of each is crucial for you to give your body what it needs. Adults need to get around 700 IUs (international units) of Vitamin D and around 1,200Mg (milligrams) of Calcium daily. The amounts are higher for the people most at risk of developing the disease.

Most dairy products supply a good amount of calcium and protein. If you are not a dairy lover, you can still get the calcium and protein needed. Options include fortified juices, cereals, oatmeal, beans, dark leafy greens, salmon, and some nuts (for example, almonds). If the case is that you don't get enough with your diet, you need to take vitamin supplements so that you are able to get the Calcium and Vitamin D needed on a daily basis.

Also, an important fact to remember- your bones have built up about 90% of all of the bone you will ever have by the age of 20. After you are over the age of 20, it is all about containing your bone density to help prevent your bones from becoming brittle.

The number one habit to avoid is smoking! The second habit to break is drinking soda. Soda contains acids and artificial sweeteners that decay the actual bones themselves. Along with breaking those habits, having the right balanced diet and exercise play the most important part in becoming a healthy and strong you!

Vitamin D may Reduce the Risk of Fractures and Osteoporosis

Vitamin D. As children, we were told to drink milk because it provided Vitamin D and calcium, a substance that could help to keep our bones strong. Increasingly, however, evidence is being gathered that vitamin also helps to keep bones strong.

New studies, in fact, point to vitamin D to treat osteoporosis and lessen the amount of bone fractures in the elderly. Osteoporosis is a major health issue for an estimated 44 million Americans and in the year 2000, the number of osteoporotic fractures in Europe was estimated at 3.79 million.

While primarily associated as an elderly disease, osteoporosis can show up at any time. Getting enough calcium and sunlight (vitamin D) to help absorb the calcium, has been targeted as a major factor in affecting the disease and reducing fractures.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) reports that "one in two women and one in four men over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in her/his remaining lifetime. Osteoporosis is responsible for more than 1.5 million fractures annually, including over 300,000 hip fractures."

Research has shown that vitamin D not only aids in the absorption of calcium to strengthen bones, but also positively affects muscles. This positive affect on bones and muscles leads to more body stability and experts say, could be beneficial in reducing the amount of fractures sustained from weak bones and muscles in the elderly.

Specialists are suggesting a daily dosage of 800 units (20 micrograms) for people 65 and older, while research is being done on yearly vitamin D injections.

Although many leading authorities are recommending extra vitamin D, The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) -- an independent UK organization responsible for providing national guidance on promoting good health and preventing and treating ill health -- is not advocating a certain dosage or saying whether supplements or injections would be the best technique for administering the vitamin.

NICE also states that although studies are showing that supplementing vitamin D may decrease the amount of fractures in the elderly, they are not positive it would lessen the amount of yearly fractures.

The Food Standards Agency in the UK, recommends 10 micrograms (or 400 units) of extra vitamin D, but only for those who are housebound, inactive and not eating a healthy diet of meat or oily fish. They stand firm that people who are active and eating a healthy diet, do not need extra vitamin D supplementation.

Dr Frazer Anderson, senior lecturer in geriatric medicine at Southampton University, agrees that supplementing with vitamins , specifically taking daily vitamin D and/or calcium supplements would mean fewer fractures sustained per year, yet he does not believe that supplementation would be enough if they already had osteoporosis.

Studies are ongoing.

Inadequate Magnesium Intake Can Lead to Osteoporosis and Arthritis

Ever wonder whether the calcium from dairy products you consume, or from the supplements you take, is actually being deposited into your bones and teeth and not elsewhere in the body, such as in your soft tissues (tissues other than the bones)?

Well, if you are consuming dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt (poor sources of magnesium) without adequate dietary magnesium intake or taking calcium supplement that contains no or inadequate amount of magnesium (the recommendation is at least half as much magnesium as calcium), that may very well be the case.

How? Calcitonin is a hormone necessary for the deposition of calcium into the bones and for preventing it from being accumulated in the soft tissues, such as the joints. Magnesium is a mineral that stimulates calcitonin production. Studies suggest that without magnesium, calcium does not get into the bones and teeth. In fact, people with osteoporosis and tooth decay have low bone and teeth magnesium content.

In many forms of arthritis (inflammation of joints), especially osteoarthritis, there is excess calcium in the joints, and not enough calcium in the bones. Magnesium helps stimulate calcitonin production to remove calcium out of the joints and increase its levels in the bones, states Paul Pitchford in his book Healing with Whole Foods.

A study published in The Journal of Arthritis Care and Research, was designed to find out whether the group of patients with calcium crystal deposits in the knee joints had a lower blood magnesium levels compared to the controls (the group without calcium deposits).  The results showed that the prevalence of calcium crystal deposits in the joints was significantly higher in patients with low blood magnesium levels.

Excess alcohol and caffeine, and certain medications, such as thiazide diuretics and birth control pills deplete magnesium; and antacids block its absorption.

Many people who regularly consume refined foods, such as white flour and white sugar, which are both found in common breads, pastas, cookies, pastries, etc., may be deficient in magnesium.  The refining process - used to make white flour from wheat berries and white sugar from sugar cane removes many of the essential nutrients, including magnesium. About 85% of magnesium is lost when white flour is made.

The unrefined or whole foods rich in magnesium are legumes, such as soy products, peas and lentils; whole grains, particularly buckwheat and wheat, also oats, brown rice, rye, and millet. Nuts, especially hazelnuts, almonds and brazil nuts are also good sources. Chlorophyll rich foods, such as wheat or barley grass products and micro algae spirulina and chlorella are excellent sources, as are leafy green vegetables, such as kale, turnip greens and collard greens.

These whole foods contain not only magnesium, but also many other so-called calcium cofactors, such as vitamins A, B and K1, and minerals manganese, zinc, copper, boron, silica, selenium and chromium, all of which are important for the proper utilization of calcium.

But on thing to remember is that magnesium and some other minerals' content of a particular food may vary significantly from one region to another, depending on the mineral content of the soil in which it was grown. One exception is barley - and wheat - grass products and micro algae spirulina and chlorella, since they are usually grown in mineral rich soil and water. Although some say we should consume only locally grown foods, it's a good idea to include in our diet some of the foods grown in other regions to prevent mineral deficiencies.

A whole food diet, rich in magnesium and other calcium cofactors should be consumed along with calcium rich foods for prevention and treatment of disorders associated with improper calcium utilization, such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

Anorexia Symptoms Include Bone Fractures and Osteoporosis - Calcium Supplements Are Essential

Anorexia symptoms include bone fractures, low bone density and osteoporosis. The condition is typically identified during mid to late adolescence--which is a critical period for bone development. Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an irrational fear of weight gain and severe restriction of diet and nutrition. While the majority of people with anorexia are female, an estimated 5 to 15 percent of people with anorexia are male.

Anorexia is typically identified during mid to late adolescence, which is a critical period for bone development. Up to one third of peak bone density is achieved during puberty. This is the time when we fill up our bone banks- from which we will make withdrawals later in life. The degree of bone loss seen with anorexia is unique in its severity and anorexia symptoms of bone loss can be detected after only 6 months of illness. Compression fractures and spinal deformity are not uncommon amongst very young patients.

A bone mineral density (BMD) test can detect bone loss before a fracture occurs and indicate the risk of future fractures. However, some studies indicate that changes in bone structure begin well before decreases in bone density reveal themselves through a DXA test. A flat-panel volume CT allows the bones to be examined at higher resolution (with relatively low radiation) for more accurate results.

DIET AND SUPPLEMENTS

While a healthy diet is the best way to maintain healthy bones, it is also the most compromised during anorexia. Calcium and vitamin supplements that include vitamin D, vitamin K and magnesium often prove to be an acceptable alternative because they provide nutrition without causing any weight gain. If a person is eating irregularly or purging during the day, taking a single serving of a comprehensive supplement such as Greens+ Bone Builder may provide an optimal solution until recovery is achieved. Taking the supplement before going to bed will take maximum advantage of the bone renewal that occurs overnight.

EXERCISE

Anorexia is often accompanied by compulsive exercising aimed at burning calories and punishing oneself for eating something "bad". Weight-bearing exercises are important for bone health but people with anorexia must also consider the risk of fractures. Low impact weight training can help to strengthen the bones if done in moderation rather than as punishment.

ESTROGEN THERAPY

Low body weight can cause women to stop producing estrogen and men to stop producing the testosterone needed for healthy bone development. However, the effectiveness of estrogen replacement therapy in treating anorexia is still unclear. Some studies found that estrogen/progestin replacement and calcium supplementation did not prevent or reverse bone loss, while others found that it prevented bone loss but did not increase bone density. Research is on-going and the appropriateness of the treatment should be discussed with your doctor.

Menopause Physiological, Psychological Symptoms and Treatment by Natural Or Pharmaceutical Remedies

This article aims to identify the physical and psychological symptoms of the menopause and describe the use and possible side effects of regularly used pharmaceutical drugs to help in relief of these symptoms. Natural relief of symptoms will also be described. This article does not aim to describe all all of the physical or psychological characteristics of the menopause, these will be covered in a later article.

Physical Symptoms Of The Menopause.

The menopause usually affects women between the ages of 40-50 years. The menstrual cycle becomes irregular about 5-7 years before the onset of the menopause. Nearer the onset the number of cycles where ovulation does not occur increases. During the menopause the woman may experience dryness of the vagina. This can cause inflammation and an increased risk of infection. A decrease in libido is usually experienced, yet some women get an increase. Some women suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure). Hot flashes are common caused by an decrease in estrogen levels.

Psychological Symptoms Of The Menopause.

The psychological symptoms were, for many years, dismissed by many Doctors and Physicians. However, they have found to be real, usually connected to low estrogen levels. Symptoms can include irritability, fatigue, anxiety, and severe emotional disturbances. These can be treated and managed by the use of small amounts of estrogen

Treatment Of The Menopause By The Use Of Pharmaceutical Drugs.

HRT: Hormone replacement therapy.

Estrogen: Estrogen is used to treat 'hot flashes' (sometimes called 'hot flushes') in women who are experiencing menopause. Some brands of estrogen are also used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, or burning, or to prevent osteoporosis. However, women who need a medication only to treat vaginal dryness or only to prevent osteoporosis should consider a different treatment. Side effects of estrogen include increased risk of endometrial cancer, and vaginal bleeding amongst others.

Progestogen: Progestogen is used to regulate the effects of estrogen and are often prescribed together. In women with a uterus, the addition of a progestogen cyclically (for at least 10 days per 28-day cycle) reduces the additional risk of endometrial cancer; this additional risk is eliminated if a progestogen is given continuously. However, this should be weighed against the increased risk of breast cancer.

Oestrogen:Oestrogen is given systemically in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal period. Menopausal atrophic vaginitis may respond to a short course of a topical vaginal oestrogen preparation. Systemic therapy with an oestrogen or drugs with oestrogenic properties alleviates the symptoms of oestrogen deficiency such as vasomotor symptoms.

Tibolone: Tibolone given in the postmenopausal period also diminish postmenopausal osteoporosis. Tibolone combines oestrogenic and progestogenic effect and it is given continuously, without cyclical progestogen. Tibolone increases the risk of breast cancer.

Clonidine: Clonidine may be used to reduce vasomotor symptoms in women who cannot take an oestrogen, but clonidine may cause unacceptable side-effects.

Possible Side Effects Of Hormone Replacement Therapy

HRT increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, stroke, endometrial cancer ( which may be reduced by a progestogen), breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. Women who start combined HRT more than 10 years after menopause have an increased risk of heart disease. Women using combined or oestrogen-only HRT are at an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (commonly DVT) and of pulmonary embolism especially in the first year of use. An oestrogen may be given by mouth or it may be given by subcutaneous or transdermal administration (patch). In women who have a personal or family history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, severe varicose veins, obesity, the use of HRT needs to be given careful consideration.

Like all drugs, HRT has side effects yet has helped many women through the 'change' (menopause).

Treatment Of The Menopause By The Use Of Natural Means.

Agnus Castus: Vitex agnus-castus. Clinical studies have shown that these berries work on the pituitary gland and help stabilise hormone fluctuations so helping menopausal symptoms..

Black Cohosh: Cimicifuga racemosa. The primary use of black cohosh extract is for alleviation of menopausal symptoms. It has been widely researched, especially in Europe, for its ability to alleviate the symptoms associated with menopause. While black cohosh is generally considered safe, people with liver disease or a family history of liver disease should consult their physician before taking black cohosh.

Damaiana: Turnerna diffusa. This shrub historically been used as an aphrodisiac and has been claimed to induce euphoria.

Dang Gui: Angelica sinensis. Dang gui acts as a phytoestrogen and has similar, but milder, effects of oestrogen. Dang gui also helps support the cardiovascular system, which can of help to menopausal women suffering hypertension (high blood pressure).

Soy: Soy contains natural plant estrogens called phytoestrogens. These are weaker than human estrogens However, studies show they behave similarly in the human body. In the body, phytoestrogens help balance a woman's estrogen level.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant. Studies have been done that suggest it may help relieve hot flashes and postmenopausal vaginal dryness and it has been popular for that purpose ever since.

There are other natural remedies said to help women experiencing the menopause.

Sarcoidosis Prognosis - All You Need to Know, and Exciting News

Sarcoidosis prognosis is a complex task since there are so many factors involved. Sarcoidosis is a complex multisystem disease. It is an autoimmune disease which means that the immune system is activated to fight a non-existent enemy and ends up fighting our own body. The important thing to know is that sarcoidosis is not a form of cancer.

Sarcoidosis prognosis-General facts

Sarcoidosis symptoms vary greatly, from mild forms to severe that can leave permanent damage in the body of patient or even cause death. In approximately 60% of the cases, sarcoidosis heals on it's own, sometimes without the patient even being aware of the condition. On the other hand, fatal complications can occur in up to 10% of the patients.

Sarcoidosis prognosis in lung and skin sarcoidosis (most common)

Lung involvement occurs in 90% of the cases. In 60-70% of the cases remission of radiographic findings occur within 2 years. In 10-15% of patients, sarcoidosis progresses rapidly to the next stages. These are the patients that end up developing chronic sarcoidosis. The rest of the patients (15-30%) find their disease slowly progress and being manageable with steroids.

Skin involvement occurs in 20-35% of sarcoidosis patients. It is usually a sign of a more severe form of the disease. Spontaneous healing is very rare and aggressive treatment is usually the course taken by modern medicine is skin involvement is present. Response to treatment with topical, intralesional, or systemic corticosteroids is achieved in fewer than 30% of patients.

Sarcoidosis prognosis in an individual patient

Accurate sarcoidosis prognosis is almost impossible with an individual patient but the symptoms can give some clues as to what is the expected course of the disease.

For example, a sudden onset of general symptoms such as weight loss of feeling poorly is usually taken to mean that the course of sarcoidosis will be relatively short and mild. Dyspnea and possibly skin sarcoidosis often indicate that the sarcoidosis will be more chronic and severe.

Also, sarcoidosis prognosis in white patients is much better then those in black, since milder forms of the disease tend to develop.

Sarcoidosis prognosis is not an easy task but there is some news in the sphere of alternative treatment of the disease that provides those diagnosed with hope. Some alternative treatment methods report certain breakthroughs in the field of research of causes behind the protocol.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors And The Changes You Can Make

Osteoporosis is a health condition in which the bone density in the skeletal system is reduced putting you at increased risk for bone fractures and the subsequent morbidity and mortality associated with fractures.

There are several osteoporosis risk factors that are not modifiable, such as being of the female gender, being a member of the Asian or Caucasian race or even having a small and think body frame, but there are many osteoporosis risk factors that you most certainly can do something about.

Osteoporosis risk factors include things such as having a strong family history of osteoporosis. For example if you have a mother who developed a osteoporotic hip fracture then your risk of developing the same immediately just doubled.

If you have a personal history of having a fracture as an adult then you also have a higher history of developing osteoporosis. This is particularly true if you have experienced a fracture that was not easily explained by the extent of the injuries suffered.

Some of the modifiable osteoporosis risk factors include things such as a diet low in calcium, excessive alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking and a lack of exercise.

Other osteoporosis risk factors are ones that may or may not be modifiable but certainly require your healthcare provider's help to best manage. Risk factors such as generally poor health, low estrogen levels, chronic inflammation related to diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and hyperthyroidism, as in Grave's disease, all put you at increased risk for the development of osteoporosis.

Also certain medications can cause osteoporosis. Long-term use of oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone, which is used to reduce the inflammatory process in the body, has long been linked to osteoporosis. They long-term use of Dilantin and Phenobarbital, both anti-seizure medications, has also been linked to osteoporosis risk factors.

So while there are some osteoporosis risk factors that you can do something about there are others that you simply have no choice but to live with. But because of the higher morbidity associated with the development of osteoporosis, it is most certainly in your best interest to modify those risk that you can do something about.

Sciatica - A Commonly Known Herniated Or Bulging Disc Symptom and the DRX9000

Sciatica is a painful symptom that may be caused by compressive forces resulting in irritation of the sciatic nerve or any of its nerve roots. It is most commonly associated with stinging, burning or numbing pain that may be experienced in the lower back, buttock, thigh, leg, or foot. Diagnosis of this particular symptom may be achieved through a physical examination or medical history review. If the condition that is causing this nerve-associated symptom is left untreated, it may have a huge impact on everyday activities such as walking, sitting, lifting and other simple movements.

This painful symptom may be caused by several conditions such as piriformis syndrome, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs and bulging discs. Although there may be several conditions that lead to similar symptoms, only herniated discs, bulging discs and degenerative disc disease are associated with the intervertebral disc.

Sciatica caused by an intervertebral disc related condition may have a wide range of painful effects. Sciatica caused by compression or irritation may produce stinging or burning lower back pain, which will quickly work its way along the buttocks and leg. In several cases, the shooting pain may lead down to the foot causing numbness. When a person is experiencing sciatica symptoms, it may be difficult for them to live a normal or active lifestyle. Unless the condition is treated, a person may not likely be able to partake in normal daily functions which may also lead to depression and other negative effects.

A physician may recommend a certain treatment option based on age, general health, medical history and degree of the sciatica causing condition. Common treatment options associated with sciatica causing conditions may include bed rest, pain medications, physical therapy, acupuncture, surgery and traction.

A relatively new treatment option to consider for intervertebral disc related conditions that lead to sciatica problems is called non-surgical spinal decompression therapy. A highly recognized device that has been shown to provide back pain relief for symptoms associated with herniated disc, bulging or protruding intervertebral discs and degenerative disc disease is called the DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression System™.

This particular form of therapy is both non-invasive and non-surgical. Through the application of spinal decompressive forces to compressive and degenerative injuries of the spine, the DRX9000™ has given patients relief from painful symptoms and has allowed them to resume a healthy normal life.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from an intervertebral disc condition that is causing painful sciatica symptoms, contact your local DRX9000 physician to learn more about non-surgical spinal decompression therapy. To view available clinical research data on the DRX9000, please click here [http://axiomworldwide.com/research].

This article is not intended nor should be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your physician before considering any medical treatment method available.

Vitamin A Supplementation Increases the Risk of Osteoporosis and Fractures

There is something awfully seductive about the idea that some extra Vitamin A every morning or a dose of ginseng tea twice a day can somehow change your life for the better, particularly for a country full of optimists, an attribute that seems particularly American. This is magical thinking at best, since there is little evidence that vitamins and supplements taken in a pill form are good for our health. In fact, scientific evidence shows that some vitamins are bad for us, increasing risk of cancer and heart disease, hip fracture, and other ailments. Others, taken in high doses, can be toxic. These are findings from well-designed controlled trials with tens of thousands of patients-that have been replicated several times over! In fact, the people in the scientific community are now calling on researchers to stop spending money on vitamin supplement trials because we know these products are either useless or harmful in terms of health.

For instance, Deepak Vivekananthan, Mark Penn, Shelly Sapp, Amy Hsu and Eric Topol from the Cleveland Clinic wrote in 2003 that, "the use of vitamin supplements containing beta carotenes and Vitamin A, beta carotene's biologically active metabolite, should be actively discouraged because this family of agents is associated with a small but significant excess of all cause mortality and cardiovascular death. We recommend that clinical trials of beta carotene should be discontinued because of its risks...we do not support the continued use of Vitamin E treatment and discourage the inclusion of vitamin E in future primary and secondary prevention trials..."

The most important fact to remember about the beneficial effects of vitamins: they are related to the nutritional content of the foods they are found in. The nutritional value and benefits of vitamins in foods is not transferred when vitamins are put into pill form. For example, there are multiple forms of Vitamin C in an orange; vitamins have only one form of Vitamin C. We have no guarantee that the form of Vitamin C in the pill is the helpful form we find in an orange. I understand that for those of you who may be avid vitamin-takers, this information a very hard pill to swallow.

But hear me out: you can get every vitamin you need by eating a variety of whole fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, and lean protein.

If you take more than you need in pill form, you may be causing yourself harm. The Danes were puzzled by the fact that they had an increase in osteoporosis in their women. They analyzed a number of factors, and found that excessive intake of vitamins, whether through fortified foods or other sources, was associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis in their county. They found a link with excessive intake of vitamins through American fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals. It seems the American predilection with fortifying everything with vitamins had gone haywire. As a result, they have banned Kellogg's vitamin fortified cereal. A spokesperson for that country on December 8, 2004 was quoted by nutraingredients.com as saying that "the Danish population already has a high intake of calcium, iron, B6 and folic acid...the knowledge on toxicity of vitamins and minerals is very limited and practically nonexistent for children... [vitamin deficiencies exist] only in small groups like immigrants who aren't getting enough vitamin D or pregnant women who need folic acid. We need to take care of all of the groups in our population." Since that time the European Union has placed a limit on the amount of vitamins and minerals that can be added to food.

And it isn't only in Europe. A study of 72,337 nurses followed from 1980 to 1998 showed that women in the top 20% of Vitamin A intake (through diet and vitamin supplements such as multivitamins) had a 48% increase in hip fracture compared to women in the bottom 20% of Vitamin A intake.

I don't want to leave you with the impression that vitamins and supplements are always dangerous, because they are not. Nor do I want to leave you with the impression that vitamin and nutrient supplementation to the food supply is always a bad thing. However if you are a resident of the US or Europe and have access to a variety of foods you don't need added vitamins, minerals, or supplements, and these things are more likely to cause harm than good. However there are residents of Third World countries who may benefit from the addition of vitamins and supplements to their foods. We are continuously discovering more beneficial effects of the nutrients found in fruits and vegetables, and it is always better to eat these primary sources of vitamins rather than to take them in pill form.

Menopause - Understanding the Physiology of Menopause, Its Symptoms and Treatment

The experience of menopause may vary widely. Some women glide through the menopausal transition without seeming to have very many symptoms, whilst other have severe symptoms which can substantially interfere with their quality of life.

WHAT IS MENOPAUSE?

Menopause is the time when a woman permanently stops having menstrual periods. It is not a disease, but merely life's natural transition, from the reproductive to the non-reproductive phase of a woman's life. However, menopause cannot be satisfactorily defined as a a "permanent stopping of menstrual periods" because it is what happens to the ovaries that is key to menopause, as opposed to what happens to the uterus (which is secondary).

To illustrate, let us say the uterus of a young woman is surgically removed. She would no longer be able to have any menstruation, but she is not menopausal, because her ovaries continue to produce hormones. On the other hand, if both her ovaries are removed surgically, or destroyed through chemotherapy, she would immediately be in menopause.

Thus, menopause occurs with the the cessation of hormone production by the ovaries.

CAUSES OF MENOPAUSE

1. Natural or physiological menopause:

Occurs as part of a woman's normal aging process. It marks the end of a woman's potential childbearing years, brought on by the ovaries gradually slowing down their function. FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) is a hormone produced by the brain, and it is responsible for stimulating the growth of the woman's eggs. As menopause approaches, the remaining eggs become resistant to FSH (hence FSH levels increase) and the ovaries reduce their production of estrogen significantly (hence, estrogen levels decrease). It is this fluctuating and rapidly declining estrogen levels that is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with menopause.

2. Induced Menopause:

This can be caused by surgical removal of both ovaries or disruption in normal ovarian function due to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH MENOPAUSE

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with each woman experiencing it differently. Some symptoms will be very bothersome, whilst others are quite manageable. The most common symptoms include hot flushes, mood changes and vaginal dryness.

1. MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS:

(i)Vasomotor Symptoms

• 
  hot flushes
  


• 
  night sweats
  


• 
  palpitations
  
  


• 
  headaches
  

(ii)Atrophic Tissues

• 
  vaginal dryness
  


• 
  dyspareunia (pain during intercourse)
  


• 
  vaginitis
  


• 
  urinary incontinence and burning sensation on urination
  


• 
  postmenopausal bleeding
  


• 
  thinning of skin
  


• 
  breast changes (menopause may cause changes in shape of the breasts)
  

(iii)Psychological

• 
  depression
  


• 
  lethargy
  


• 
  loss of concentration
  


• 
  irritability
  


• 
  insomnia
  


• 
  poor libido
  

2. OSTEOPOROSIS

Rapid bone loss occurs during the perimenopausal and postmenopausal years. Bone loss in itself is painless, but it can lead to osteoporosis with increased fracture risk.

3. ISCHAEMIC CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Non-smoking pre-menopausal women rarely suffer for cardiovascular disease. However, within 10 years of menopause, they catch up with the heart attack incidence of their male counterparts.

DIAGNOSIS AND INVESTIGATIONS

The diagnosis of menopause is usually made in retrospect - once it has been 12 months since your last menstruation, you are deemed to be in menopause. Occasionally, your doctor may do some laboratory tests to check the levels of certain hormones. This would include Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estradiol levels.

Other tests which may be done include:

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone - because thyroid disease can mimic the symptoms of menopause.

Cardiovascular Risk assessment - cholesterol levels, checks for diabetes, echocardiogram etc.

Assessment of Osteoporotic risk - DEXA scan for those at increased risk of osteoporosis.

TREATMENT

Menopause is not a disease that requires treatment. However, short term Hormone Replacement Therapy may be prescribed in women with severe symptoms. Treatment is also prescribed for the associated effects of menopause eg. Osteoporosis, increased cardiovascular risk, urinary incontinence etc.

Using Lemon To Treat Diabetes, Cancer, Obesity, High Blood Pressure, Influenza, Anemia, Osteoporosis

Lemon, which PH value is around 2.5, has sour taste that helps to ease tiredness and promotes body absorption of minerals. Apart from Vitamin C, lemon has calcium, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin P, and natural dietary fiber. In fact, lemon can be used to treat diseases such as diabetes, cancer, obesity, high blood pressure, influenza, anemia, and osteoporosis.

Diabetes

The number of diabetic patient has increased recently. For those above 40 years old, there is one diabetic patient in every 10 patients. About 95% of the diabetic patients are of type 2 diabetes. Apart from genetic factor, dietary and exercise habits are closely related.

Lemon has Vitamin C and antioxidant that help to strengthen blood vessels via collagen formation and lessen the tendency of rising blood glucose level due to stress.

Cancer

Lemon has substance that can help to suppress cancerous cell growth. Usually, the development of cancerous cell is often caused by presence of substance that acts as an initiator and Vitamin C is known to suppress this type of initiator. Taking in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and B-Carotene concurrently will give very promising result in fighting cancer.

Other precautions to take note in the attempt of preventing cancer are taking plenty of vegetables and balanced diet, avoiding preserved food or food with high salt and fat content, and cutting down alcohol intake.

Obesity

Collagen accounts to about 30% of body protein. Vitamin C is one of the building blocks of collagen. Thus, lemon helps muscles to be firmer and this is needed to burn off more calories via higher metabolism rate. When glucose is turned to energy, it gives out lactic acid as by-product. Lactic acid is one of the substances that causes tiredness. Lemon can disintegrate lactic acid and help to recuperate body from tiredness and make it ready for more exercise.

High blood pressure

If left untreated, high blood pressure will create complications such as stroke and atherosclerosis. Lemon is known to suppress blood pressure, strengthen blood vessels, and prevent high blood pressure as well as atherosclerosis. Even for those that having existing high blood pressure concern, lemon can be used to manage blood pressure. Apart from Vitamin C, Potassium content in lemon helps to suppress blood pressure from going up.

Anemia

Patients with anemia are often associated with tiredness, broken nails, asthma, loss of appetite, and dizziness. Lemon promotes the absorption of iron to make good quality blood and improves blood circulation, which are needed for patient with anemia.

Influenza

More than 90% of the flu incidents are caused by virus via air entering from our nose and mouth. Influenza virus likes cold, dry places. The reason why we get flu is mostly from catching cold in cold places, then the condition worsens when we stay in dry places as virus enters our body via nose and mouth. Thus, to prevent flu, we should keep our body warm.

Lemon is particularly useful in treating early phase of influenza. Vitamin C in lemon is part of the building blocks for collagen that is needed to strengthen blood vessel and mucosa. In every 100 gram of lemon, there is about 90 milligram of Vitamin C as compared to 35 milligram from every 100 gram of orange. The antibacterial effect of lemon can destroy core structure of virus and kill it.

Osteoporosis

Bones grow with age and reach maximum mass at the age of 20 to 30, which will then start to descend. Female hormone helps to energize Vitamin D that helps in calcium absorption, thus prevents bones from being fragile. After menopause, the amount of female hormone reduced and bone mass will reduce rapidly. Vitamin C helps to build collagen that is needed in forming strong and flexible bones. The absorption of calcium is easier with the presence of Vitamin C. One important note to remember, the calcium absorption from food can only be used by bones with sufficient exercise. Without exercise, calcium will be passed out from body via urine and sweat.

Non-Surgical Knee Pain Relief With Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also known as low level laser therapy or LLLT, is an alternative, non-surgical method of treatment that has existed since the late 1960s. Cold laser therapy was being utilized in Europe and Asia for decades before the FDA finally cleared the first cold laser in the United States in 2001. Since that time there have been hundreds of clinical studies that support the efficacy of cold laser therapy for knee pain relief. It is a great option for those searching for alternatives to conventional methods that might have failed them in the past.

Which Types of Knee Conditions Does Cold Laser Therapy Help Relieve?

A cold laser is a non-surgical treatment tool used by a licensed physician to help relieve knee pain caused from a knee injury, degeneration, arthritis knee pain, baker's cysts, meniscus tears, bursitis of the knee, tendonitis of the knee, chondromalacia patella, and failed knee surgery. Individuals who suffer from chronic knee pain can benefit tremendously from treatments. The therapy is unique in that it enables patients to experience knee pain relief without knee surgery, medications or knee injections. Unlike pain medications and knee injections cold laser therapy treatments are considered non-invasive,do not cause any harmful side effects, and are completely painless.

What Other Conditions Are Treated With Laser Therapy?

In addition to relieving knee pain and inflammation the treatment can be used by physicians for treating a myriad of other musculoskeletal conditions. The treatments have also proven to be effective for neck pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain and arthritis pain. Researchers are also investigating the possibilities of cold lasers being used to heal broken bones more quickly, to help regenerate the nerves in injured spinal cords and to help regenerate new skin in burn victims.

How Does The Treatment Work?

Cold laser therapy treatments work by using highly focused, specific wavelengths of light to target the area of injury. The light penetrates deeply into the tissue in the form of non-thermal light photons. This light helps stimulate and excite damaged and injured cells' mitochondria. The mitochondria is considered the 'powerhouse' of the cell. By exciting the mitochondria the metabolic rate of the cell improves thereby healing and repairing the tissue at a faster rate. In addition, to relieving knee pain, treatments have also been shown to improve tissue growth, cell communication, and cell nutrition. As a result of cellular excitation, lasers also accelerate lymphatic activity which ultimately helps reduce edema or swelling in and around the knee joint. Additionally, the therapy aids in achieving an increase in blood flow and in the formation of new capillaries in and around the knee joint.

How Many Knee Treatments Does it Take to Experience Relief?

The exact number of treatments depends on the duration and severity of the pain. In addition, an examination, an x-ray or MRI evaluation of the knee joint must be performed and taken into account in order to help determine an accurate treatment plan. The good news is that the effects are cumulative and improve with each treatment. It usually takes a series of 10 to 30 treatments for knee pain sufferers to get the most beneficial results; however, in many acute cases the relief can be immediate. Moreover, it is important to continue the treatments until the doctor has indicated that the therapy is complete.

Contraindications to Therapy...

While the FDA has classified cold lasers as "non-significant risk" devices, the treatments are not appropriate for individuals who are pregnant, or who observe the presence of potentially cancerous skin lesions near the site of the knee injury. This knee treatment is also contraindicated for individuals who take medications that result in photosensitivity.

The Most Important Step...Choosing The Right Knee Pain Relief Doctor...

Finally, choosing the right doctor that specializes in cold laser therapy for knee pain is as important as the treatment itself. Any health care professional with a license can own a cold laser, but in order to get the best results find a doctor who only treats the knee joint and who has devoted their practice to using this type of therapy. If you choose wisely, you will have a greater chance of achieving knee pain relief and ultimately avoiding knee surgery.

All rights reserved Copyright © 2011 Dr.Schnee,D.C.,PA

What Are the Contraindications for Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Contraindications to Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal Decompression Therapy is a revolutionary treatment involving intermittent traction which can help relieve, back pain, neck pain, arm and leg pain. Developed in the 1990's, it has grown tremendously in popularity as more and more patients realize the benefits of pain relief and surgery avoidance. It is highly effective (over 80%), low cost (less than 5% the cost of surgery), FDA cleared, and very safe with an extremely low risk profile.

There are some patients who are not candidates for spinal decompression however. Patients with chronic back pain or chronic neck pain who have sciatica or radiculopathy may benefit tremendously. Common problems that benefit include lumbar disc herniation, cervical disc herniation, facet syndrome, failed spine surgery, ruptured discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and spinal stenosis.

Spinal decompression therapy has saved many people from spinal surgery. According to a recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, surgery is no more effective than non-invasive treatments, including chiropractic care, for patients with lumbar disc herniation causing sciatica.

However, if a patient has had a previous spinal fusion with instrumentation then spinal decompression is contraindicated. The key here is instrumentation. Spinal fusions without instrumentation are okay for the treatment. The concern is the unlikely event that the instrumentation may shift. For instance if a patient had a neck fusion with a plate the end result is typically no more radiculopathy and a solid fusion. However, at times the end result is no pain even though the fusion did not occur and the instrumentation is holding the bones together. The intermittent traction from the neck decompression, even though slight, could cause a screw to shift and the plate to move.

Another contraindication is pregnancy. Back pain and sciatica are very common during pregnancy. Chiropractic treatment and massage can be very helpful if done safely during pregnancy for back pain. Spinal decompression involves slight intermittent traction and there is a need to put a harness over the pelvis and abdomen region. In order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment, the harness is secured snugly and therefore in pregnant women the treatment is not allowed because of the resultant pressure on the uterus.

Patients with significant spinal osteoporosis should not undergo lumbar decompression or cervical decompression. Since there is a baseline increased risk of vertebral compression fractures from the decreased bone density, spinal decompression may add to that risk. Patients who have severe osteoporosis may sustain fractures from simply getting up out of a chair or out of bed or sneezing. Patients with osteopenia, which is a slight decrease in bone density less severe than osteoporosis, are okay for neck decompression or back decompression in that regard.

These conditions are not indicated for spinal decompression. A comprehensive pain management center will have other options for pain relief in those patients which may include pain medications, interventional pain management, physical therapy, chiropractor treatment, acupuncture, or massage.

Mending the Bones With Reiki

How Reiki is used to help mend broken bones and treat common bone related disease such as osteoporosis, arthritis, rheumatism and genetic illnesses:

Among the alternate therapies, Reiki has gained popularity among Doctors and other practitioners as a non invasive and natural healing method that is efficacious in seemingly mysterious ways.

The Universal Life Energy is an energy that is omnipresent, omnipotent and all pervasive. It has a soothing vibration and a divine quality that vitalizes the body being healed and the healer simultaneously. The practitioner receives the energy through the crown chakra or the knowledge chakra and becomes a medium of energy transfer. Reiki, with an innate intelligence flows to the areas that require healing.

The energy flow of the body matches the structure of the body and the skeletal framework defines the structure of the body. In fact, it is believed that energy meridians are formed first in the fetus before the physical structure is formed and the former acts as a guide map for the latter. Any break in the skeletal framework will result in the disruption of the smooth flow of energy. This will traumatize the entire body and the resulting disease will impact on the physical and psychological well being of the person.

The root chakra is the energy center that is associated with the skeletal framework of the body. All diseases relating to the bones arise due to imbalance in this chakra. Sometimes, the energy flow in this chakra gets blocked due to bone injuries. Bone related diseases that can be treated by Reiki are osteoporosis, fractures, arthritis, rheumatism and genetic illnesses that arise due to deficiency in the bone marrow.

While Reiki can treat all injuries to the skeletal structure without recourse to any invasive techniques, it is necessary that fractures are set before Reiki is applied to the break. This is because Reiki will begin to knit the bone immediately and if it is not properly set, it could result in further painful surgery.

Case study

Mr.S's job involved sitting for long hours at his desk. Over the years he had developed severe pain in the lower back and was experiencing numbness down his left leg. His leg felt cold and clammy and his foot appeared pale and bloodless. When he came to the Reiki clinic, he was limping and his face was lined with pain and desperation. He sat down with great difficulty and squirmed in his seat to find a position that was least painful. Finally, he pulled up his legs to his chest and hugged them with his hands while he pushed his head forward to his knees and heaved a sigh of relief. His voice was low and strained and he was constantly rubbing his left leg as if to restore circulation in it.

A quick scan of his aura indicated that he had energy blocks in his root chakra (a deep grey black), and almost all the minor chakras at the arch of the foot and knee joint. Since the chakra at the arch of the foot is connected to the root chakra and the solar plexus Chakra, blocks were visible in both these (deep grey). As the chakra at the knee joint is connected to the fifth and sixth chakras grayish clouds were visible on these chakras at the aura level.

Mr. S revealed that he was in his early sixties and had got a surgery done for fusing his vertebrae in his spine five years ago. The osteopathic treatment for the back pain that followed had not helped much and his Doctors had given up hope of giving him relief. Body scans and x rays showed that his bones were in their correct places and his pain had nothing to do with prolapsed discs or broken vertebrae. They recommended some more osteopathic treatment. He was not enthused by the suggestion. The pain was constant and of late he was experiencing numbness in his leg. As his condition worsened, he became desperate and even began to think that he would soon die. His world seemed to shrink into his back pain. He could not focus on his job and he was fast becoming convinced that he could not continue in his job. He felt economically threatened and very insecure. He felt that life was not worth living if the pain could not be arrested. He was fed up with painkillers and did not want to continue with them.

Reiki had been recommended to him by one of his friends, who swore by it. So he had come to the Reiki clinic in the hope that he would find some help here. He then asked pathetically, "Can you guarantee a cure for me? Do you think I can live a pain free life?"

I assured him that Reiki is a wonderful intelligent energy and that he would feel the impact of the energy even with the first sitting. I told him that we would have him dancing at the end of a few months. He was a little skeptical but consented to try it anyway.

Since he was already in the clinic I suggested that we should begin the sessions immediately. He agreed and we began. He lay down on his right side and pulled up his legs into a fetal position to ease the pain. While working the different hand positions, I noted that his leg was cold and clammy. He could not move it with ease. There was hardly any energy flowing into his leg. When I questioned him about it, he said that he often felt that circulation was very poor in his left leg and that the whole leg was very heavy and he had a constant dull ache radiating from his thigh to his foot.

The first impact of Reiki is a feeling of bone deep relaxation. Patients tend to fall asleep during Reiki. Mr.S too fell asleep and only woke up when we called him at the end of the session. He was extremely surprised and said that he had not been aware of falling asleep and he had slept dreamlessly and painlessly after a long time. He said the pain also appeared to have subsided slightly after treatment....

At the end of the month (after many ups and downs) Mr.S was finally able to say that the pain had subsided sufficiently for him to give him hope. He was able to turn over in bed without groaning and moaning and he was able to stand for fifteen twenty minutes without looking around for a straight-backed chair to ease his aching back.

Thereafter, it took almost seven twenty one day, one hour sessions to heal his back and bring back a modicum of circulation to his left leg. From the seventh to the tenth month he received weekly sessions of one hour each to completely erase the blocks in his foot and knee chakras.

Mr. S is now able to lead a normal life. He is able to focus on his work and is expecting a promotion soon. He still comes to the clinic to spend the time of day with us and help out with the other patients. He is a great asset to us as he tells all the patients who come in the wonderful work Reiki has done for him. He boosts their confidence and helps us through the sessions with his enthusiasm and optimism-which is very infectious! We are persuading him to learn Reiki. He has promised to enroll for the next convenient session.

Reiki does not interfere or discourage other forms of medical treatment. It complements and enhances the effects of the treatment being received. Today a vast amount of clinical knowledge exists to prove that disruption of energy flow in the body can result in aches and pains in different parts of the body even when they do not manifest as physical problems in x rays, MRI or different kinds of body scans available in hospitals. However, they cannot be dismissed as a figment of their imagination. Aura scans can give a fairly accurate indication of where the discomfort lies and correcting the energy level at the related chakra would clear up the problem immediately.

How to Cure Sciatica With Weight Loss

There are a lot of people in the world who suffer from sciatica. There have been studies done that have shown that being overweight adds to the pain you feel from sciatica. If you have all of that extra weight to carry it means that you are putting added stress on your back. If you put extra weight onto your lower back pain you will feel even worse. You are adding to the pain that you feel from your sciatica. This is an easy way to learn how to cure sciatica.

If you have ever suffered from lower back pain you will have likely gone to a doctor about it. If you are overweight, they will have probably told you that you should lose some weight to help ease your lower back pain. Do you want to ease the pain that you have in your back and find out how to cure sciatica? Sciatica patients are generally told that they should not be overweight and recommended a weight loss routine. This is done before any sort of further treatment such as medication and possibly even surgery are performed. More extreme techniques such as this are not usually used unless there is no other way to solve the problem.

When you start to lose weight you will feel that your back pain starts to go away. However, if you lose weight you will start to see many other benefits in your life. If you lose some weight and get in better shape you will find that you feel better all over. Your body will feel more energetic and you will find yourself participating in more physical activity.

Before you go looking for how to cure sciatica you should realize that medication and surgery are not always the best way. Sometimes you just need to get yourself into better physical shape in order to start feeling better.

Sciatica Symptoms, Treatment, and the End of Pain

If you are suffering from sciatica symptoms and want to learn how to treat your pain and get rid of sciatica for good, then keep reading. In this article I will discuss the common sciatica symptoms, treatment options, and most importantly, I will tell you the secret to lasting sciatic pain relief.

Common sciatica symptoms
Most sciatica symptoms happen in the lower back, buttocks, and thighs. Sometimes they radiate all the way down the legs to the feet.

Do you have any of these symptoms?

• Pain or cramping in the buttocks or thighs?


• Tingling, pins and needles sensation, or numbness in the buttocks?


• Burning pain, sharp pain, or shooting pain?

These are all classic symptoms of sciatica. For some people, these symptoms make it difficult to walk, stand, sit, and they certainly get in the way of a happy, comfortable life.

Treating The Pain
There are many ways to treat the pain. Your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory drugs, rest, and hot/cold therapy. Some people try massage, acupuncture, yoga, and pilates.

For most people however, the most effective sciatica treatment involves some for of physical therapy. This is because your physical therapist can strengthen and rehabilitate the surrounding muscles that are causing the problem.

Treating The Underlying Causes
For most sciatica symptoms, treatment options focus only on the pain. This is true for most of the treatment options listed above. But the big problem is that even if the pain goes away, it doesn't mean that you've done anything for the underlying problem. If you haven't fixed the underlying problem, then the sciatica symptoms often and usually do return.

So what is the underlying cause of sciatica? Your doctor will talk about herniated disks, spinal stenosis, muscle impingements, etc, but those are all the immediate triggers of sciatica. A better question to ask is what created those conditions in the first place. If you understand that, then you can understand why the sciatica most likely will return. You need to identify and correct those underlying imbalances.

Orthopedic Doctors Are Highly Skilled Physicians

Orthopedic doctors are physicians that treat conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. Such doctors are very skilled in areas pertaining to joint issues, broken bones, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Highly respected in the medical community, orthopedists can be found working in private practices and hospitals all over the country.

Orthopedists that work in small clinics or private practices often times limit the types of conditions they will treat. This is the doctor's right to opt to do this. It is common for clinic orthopedists to refer their patient's to outside offices for treatment they can offer but choose not to. Hospital orthopedists tend to treat a larger range of issues under the scope of their specialty.

The education involved to be an active member of this profession is not an easy ride. Patients rely on their physicians to give them treatments that will work. Considering this, prospective medical students may want to look at other career options if he or she cannot say with all their heart that this is the field that he or she wishes to be involved in. Being a physician is demanding. There is a possibility of work hours cutting into personal time. The potential doctor needs to embrace this and understand that will be a part of his or her life.

Physicians that are extremely dedicated to their profession, as well as their patient's well being, are generally successful in their careers. Personal fulfillment can be attained when he or she walks the patient through injury to recovery. However, there are cases where patient's simply will not recover. Some instances involve bone tumors which can be deadly. The doctor needs to be able to emotionally handle the fact that no matter how much he or she helps the patient, surviving may not always be the end result.

There are numerous procedure performed in the field of orthopedics. An Arthroscopy is one of these. This procedure involves minor evasive techniques which permits the doctor to gain better insight to the exact state of the damage sustained by a body part. Physician's who have chosen to obtain extra schooling can also participate in surgeries of the hand and spine. Pediatric orthopedics may be practiced as well.

Medical students that wish to practice orthopedic medicine are required to attend four years of undergraduate college education, and an additional four years of medical school. Five more years of education is required in the form of a residency at a teaching hospital. These years are spent learning general surgery and orthopedic surgery, emphasis is on the latter.

Orthopedics is a very detailed area of medicine. All medical fields are very much involved. However, for someone to become an orthopedic doctor, he or she needs to maintain a high level of focus at all times. After the required education is finished, all orthopedic doctors will continue learning new skills. The fact of the matter is doctor's never quit learning throughout their entire careers. Seminars and reading materials are frequently referred to. An excellent work ethic is mandatory in order to become a physician.

Know About the Pros and Cons of the Medicines Used For Osteoporosis

You may be well aware that Osteoporosis is a bone disorder that mainly occurs when there is an imbalance in your bone composition. This disorder occurs when the density of your bone decreases. Various new treatments and remedies have been introduced in the market that can really cure this bone disorder. Fosomax is a drug that comes under the category of Bisphosphonates drugs. These special medicines are especially used for curing Osteoporosis and other related bone disorders in both men and women.

You will see that Fosamax is especially designed to slow down osteoclasts that result in the prevention of bone degeneration. So, now let me discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using this drug.

Advantages

1. Does not effect the hormones

One excellent advantage of this drug is that it does not have any hormonal reactions. It has been seen that many drugs have some side effects on your body, but if you are using Fosamax then you do not have to worry about hormonal reactions.

2. Prevents fractures of hip and spine

The bones in your hip and spine area are very fragile; that is why you must take good care of them. If you really want to prevent fractures from occurring in your hip and spine area then Fosamax is one of the most effective drug that you can use.

3. Weekly dosage

Unlike the other drugs that are prescribed by doctors, you do not have to take Fosamax on a daily basis. It should be taken on a weekly basis as prescribed by your doctor.

Disadvantages

1. Slight inconvenience

Fosamax can not be taken as and when you desire. If you really want to achieve the desired results then you must take the drug in the prescribed manner. The drug has to be taken on an empty stomach with plain water and in a standing position. After you have taken the drug you should not eat anything solid for the next 30 minutes. Following all these steps is not possible for everyone, and that is why this drug causes some inconvenience.

2. Musculoskeletal Pain

In various researches it has been shown that a few people who take Fosamax might experience intense muscle and joint pain.

3. Acute phase response

People taking Fosamax are also known to have suffered from chills, bone pain and fever. All these reactions have occurred after taking the oral dosage of this drug.

These are some essential things that you must know about Fosamax.