Ok this is my first blog of the New Year so I hope that everyone is ready to start this year of on a good foot. Over the past week or so I have had one question asked several times. “Dr. Ed how do I make my New Years resolutions come true.” I have heard this question several times already and it is only the second week of the New Year. Each person who asked this question had something similar. THEY WERE TRYING TO DO TOO MUCH.
Many individuals want to take on the world at the beginning of the New Year. This is the problem! We all do great once we start out on a new project, but it is keeping at it that is the problem. My solution to this is start out smaller. Maybe not take over the world at first but instead conquer your kitchen. What I mean is do not take on so much that you forget what you are trying to do. An example is weight loss. We all want to loose weight but when we start we put our selves into a drastic diet plan that gives us immediate results and then with in a few weeks we let the diet go. We let it go because we get tired and frustrated because it becomes too much of a burden. So instead start small. First cut your portions down. A patient once told me that his favorite lunch is a two BIG MAC’s from McDonalds and a large fry. So for him I said just eat one BIG MAC. Start small then progress larger. Once you get comfortable with the small stuff you will be ready to up the anti.
All of us can make our NEW YEARS resolutions come true. Just don’t do too much too fast. 2009 will be a great year for all of us and remember that we here at CSI wish all of you the best of health in 2009. Look back next month for more blogs from the doctors and fun little tid bits. If anyone has questions for us please drop us a line and we will write about it.
Thank you all for a wonderful 2008 and I look forward to keeping you all healthy and happy in 2009.
Dr. Ed
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Alternative treatments for Inflammatory Bowl Disease
"I don't feel very good, my stomach hurts"
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
Inflammatory Bowl Disease (IBD) is described as inflammation of the large and small intestines. The two most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which most commonly affects the large intestine, and Crohn’s disease, which can affect the entire GI tract. Individuals who are affected by these conditions either have a small portion or at times the whole intestinal tract affected. These conditions cause the intestinal lining to be irritated and swollen, and as a result ulcers may form which can cause intestinal bleeding. Some symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Due to the fact that the intestinal lining is inflamed the main function, which is absorption of nutrients and water, is altered and the individual can become under nourished, dehydrated and weak. Symptoms may come and go and patients can be in remission for long periods of time. Although people at any age can be affected, IBD most commonly affects young adults. With these conditions other organs such as the skin, joints, spine, liver, and eyes can also be affected. The best way to diagnose these conditions is by direct visualization via sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsy of the lining of the bowl. Patients with long standing history of IBD have an increase risk of colon cancer, so it is very important to have the condition monitored by their gastroenterologist.
Alternative treatments:
• Chiropractic
o You might ask how chiropractic can help. Chiropractic adjustments can help by freeing any type of interference in the nerve that supplies the intestinal tract to help it maintain the proper transmission of information between the area affected and Central Nervous System (CNS) which is composed of the brain and spinal cord. With the communication between the GI tract and the CNS normalized, there are more regular bowel movements and less inflammation in the area which in term helps to normalize the regular environment of the GI tract.
• Erchonia cold laser
o The function of the cold laser is to penetrate the mitochondria of the cell which is considered the “power house” of the cell and produce more Adenosine Tri Phosphate (ATP) which is the main fuel for the cells. By having more ATP available the damaged cells are able to function and heal at a higher rate.
o It has also been shown that the cold laser decreases inflammation, which is one of the main complications in inflammatory bowel disease. By decreasing the inflammation, the lining of the intestine is less aggravated and as a result it will heal much faster.
• Energy Balance Footbath (EB)
o The function of the EB is to use the acupuncture meridian channels to send alternating positive and negative ions through an individual’s body to pull out any type of heavy metal and toxin build up which is interfering with the body’s natural healing ability. The way this works is by having the patient immerse their feet in a warm water and salt bath. At the same time a copper coil electrode is placed in the water which creates a bio-energetic ionic exchange system that surges positive and negative ions through the patient’s body.
o Furthermore, it has been shown that the EB helps to produce more ATP which is the main fuel for the cell. By having more ATP available the function and healing process of damaged cells and tissue are enhanced.
• Proper nutrition and supplementation:
o Due to the fact that these conditions are inflammatory processes it is very important to recognize the types of food which aggravate the condition and avoid those particular foods. Every person reacts differently to different foods. It is a good idea to keep a daily log of each meal to see how you feel after that particular meal. This is a good way to isolate which foods aggravate the intestine.
o Supplements can be your ally if in fighting these conditions. Some important supplements to be taken for people with these conditions include:
L-Glutamine which is a free forming amino acid that helps in the tissue recovery
Acidophilus which is a probiotic that helps in digestion
Vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc which are all antioxidants and help to decrease inflammation throughout the body.
By combining chiropractic, cold laser, EB, proper nutrition and supplements the amount of inflammation in the intestinal lining is decreased. As a result there is less discomfort to the patient, symptoms can subside, amount of prescription medication can be reduced, and the patients can experience a more natural and healthy life style.
My experience with ulcerative colitis:
I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at the age of 20. After having a colonoscopy and biopsy performed, I was told that my entire large intestine was affected. My condition was so severe that I had to drop out of school for 2 semesters, lost about 20 pounds in a 1 month period, and was severely anemic. The Dr.’s put me on Prednisone which is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid to control the bleeding and inflammation. After taking the medication for about 3 weeks my condition was under control but the medication had taken a toll on my body. As a result I had severe acne and joint pain throughout my body. After I stopped taking prednisone they put me on another pill called Asacol and was told that I have to take 12 pills per day, depending on my condition, for the rest of my life. Due to the fact that one of the main side effects of Asacol is liver cirrhosis, I had to get regular blood work done to monitor my liver function.
Once I was in chiropractic school and started to get adjusted I noticed a big improvement in my bowl movements. I was able to cut back my medication to about 9 pills per day. After starting to work at CSI I discovered the cold laser and EB. I decided to go through 12 sessions of the EB combined with the laser. At my 4th treatment I noticed that I was having more energy throughout the day. At the 7th treatment I was having less bowl movements. I decided to cut back on my medication and see how things went. By my 9th session was taking about 4 pill every other week. After my 12th session was completed in early October I was not taking anymore pills for my colitis and to date I have not taken any pills. I feel the best I have felt since my condition started over 8 years ago.
• Since there is a higher risk of colon cancer in individuals with these conditions it is very important to be monitored regularly by your GI doctor.
If you have any questions and concerns feel free to ask and I will gladly answer them.
Amir Mahmud
Chiropractic Intern
2277 Townsgate Rd. suite 101
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Phone :(805)371-0737
www.gotcsi.com
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
Inflammatory Bowl Disease (IBD) is described as inflammation of the large and small intestines. The two most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which most commonly affects the large intestine, and Crohn’s disease, which can affect the entire GI tract. Individuals who are affected by these conditions either have a small portion or at times the whole intestinal tract affected. These conditions cause the intestinal lining to be irritated and swollen, and as a result ulcers may form which can cause intestinal bleeding. Some symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Due to the fact that the intestinal lining is inflamed the main function, which is absorption of nutrients and water, is altered and the individual can become under nourished, dehydrated and weak. Symptoms may come and go and patients can be in remission for long periods of time. Although people at any age can be affected, IBD most commonly affects young adults. With these conditions other organs such as the skin, joints, spine, liver, and eyes can also be affected. The best way to diagnose these conditions is by direct visualization via sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsy of the lining of the bowl. Patients with long standing history of IBD have an increase risk of colon cancer, so it is very important to have the condition monitored by their gastroenterologist.
Alternative treatments:
• Chiropractic
o You might ask how chiropractic can help. Chiropractic adjustments can help by freeing any type of interference in the nerve that supplies the intestinal tract to help it maintain the proper transmission of information between the area affected and Central Nervous System (CNS) which is composed of the brain and spinal cord. With the communication between the GI tract and the CNS normalized, there are more regular bowel movements and less inflammation in the area which in term helps to normalize the regular environment of the GI tract.
• Erchonia cold laser
o The function of the cold laser is to penetrate the mitochondria of the cell which is considered the “power house” of the cell and produce more Adenosine Tri Phosphate (ATP) which is the main fuel for the cells. By having more ATP available the damaged cells are able to function and heal at a higher rate.
o It has also been shown that the cold laser decreases inflammation, which is one of the main complications in inflammatory bowel disease. By decreasing the inflammation, the lining of the intestine is less aggravated and as a result it will heal much faster.
• Energy Balance Footbath (EB)
o The function of the EB is to use the acupuncture meridian channels to send alternating positive and negative ions through an individual’s body to pull out any type of heavy metal and toxin build up which is interfering with the body’s natural healing ability. The way this works is by having the patient immerse their feet in a warm water and salt bath. At the same time a copper coil electrode is placed in the water which creates a bio-energetic ionic exchange system that surges positive and negative ions through the patient’s body.
o Furthermore, it has been shown that the EB helps to produce more ATP which is the main fuel for the cell. By having more ATP available the function and healing process of damaged cells and tissue are enhanced.
• Proper nutrition and supplementation:
o Due to the fact that these conditions are inflammatory processes it is very important to recognize the types of food which aggravate the condition and avoid those particular foods. Every person reacts differently to different foods. It is a good idea to keep a daily log of each meal to see how you feel after that particular meal. This is a good way to isolate which foods aggravate the intestine.
o Supplements can be your ally if in fighting these conditions. Some important supplements to be taken for people with these conditions include:
L-Glutamine which is a free forming amino acid that helps in the tissue recovery
Acidophilus which is a probiotic that helps in digestion
Vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc which are all antioxidants and help to decrease inflammation throughout the body.
By combining chiropractic, cold laser, EB, proper nutrition and supplements the amount of inflammation in the intestinal lining is decreased. As a result there is less discomfort to the patient, symptoms can subside, amount of prescription medication can be reduced, and the patients can experience a more natural and healthy life style.
My experience with ulcerative colitis:
I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at the age of 20. After having a colonoscopy and biopsy performed, I was told that my entire large intestine was affected. My condition was so severe that I had to drop out of school for 2 semesters, lost about 20 pounds in a 1 month period, and was severely anemic. The Dr.’s put me on Prednisone which is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid to control the bleeding and inflammation. After taking the medication for about 3 weeks my condition was under control but the medication had taken a toll on my body. As a result I had severe acne and joint pain throughout my body. After I stopped taking prednisone they put me on another pill called Asacol and was told that I have to take 12 pills per day, depending on my condition, for the rest of my life. Due to the fact that one of the main side effects of Asacol is liver cirrhosis, I had to get regular blood work done to monitor my liver function.
Once I was in chiropractic school and started to get adjusted I noticed a big improvement in my bowl movements. I was able to cut back my medication to about 9 pills per day. After starting to work at CSI I discovered the cold laser and EB. I decided to go through 12 sessions of the EB combined with the laser. At my 4th treatment I noticed that I was having more energy throughout the day. At the 7th treatment I was having less bowl movements. I decided to cut back on my medication and see how things went. By my 9th session was taking about 4 pill every other week. After my 12th session was completed in early October I was not taking anymore pills for my colitis and to date I have not taken any pills. I feel the best I have felt since my condition started over 8 years ago.
• Since there is a higher risk of colon cancer in individuals with these conditions it is very important to be monitored regularly by your GI doctor.
If you have any questions and concerns feel free to ask and I will gladly answer them.
Amir Mahmud
Chiropractic Intern
2277 Townsgate Rd. suite 101
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Phone :(805)371-0737
www.gotcsi.com
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Whats up with the Tennis balls?
Good day and greetings to all who have ventured to this site to keep your self informed and intrigued about what CSI has to offer. Here is the latest answer to a common question that I have had in the office.
Many patients are looking for an easy way to help ease some of the pain and tightness that accompanies a very busy lifestyle. Some get massages, many get Chiropractic care, others choose to work out and or sit on there butts and watch TV. These are all ways to get some relaxation in, however they do not help ease the mechanical muscle tension. This is where a tennis ball or tennis balls come into play.
I tell many of my patients to first buy a can of three balls. Take two of them and put them into an old sock and or panty hose. I prefer the panty hose since this material can breath and prevent mildew build up. You now want to tie off the end so that two tennis balls can move apart about an inch.
Those of you who are familiar with foam rolling and the wonderful benefits that it can provide will also see great relief from the use of a tennis ball since they can get into the smaller muscle groups compared to a foam roller.
Ok enough talk this is what to do. For those who have upper back and neck tension you can take the two tennis balls that are in the sock and lay on them so the tennis balls are between the shoulder blades and around the spine. Here you can roll up and down on the balls and hit all those smaller tension spots that a foam roller cannot get at. Then after that you can use the single ball to get the rest.
Once you master that you can then use the tennis balls on any tense muscle area. Try and stay away from rolling over a bony area since that will possibly create a bruise. You may have to start out on the floor or on the most cushioned area of the house if it is too painful.
The purpose of the tennis balls is to help break up the muscle adhesions that we all get during the day. Using the tennis balls at home will help with the current treatment that many of you are utilizing here at CSI. I tell many of my patients on the first visit about the tennis balls to help them with there current issues. Many use massage however this is a home care method that you can utilize daily.
I recommend that you use the tennis balls over the areas that you feel are the most tense and allow the tennis balls to push in the area for 3-4 minutes then move them. You can do this on all large and small muscle groups to pain tolerance.
Tennis balls I have found are the easiest way to allow some home massage and tension relief. If any of you have questions on how to use the tennis balls and or questions about the previous blogs, please contact me at bfg59@aol.com. Thank you all for your time and may this holiday season bring you all happiness.
Thank you,
Dr. Ed
Many patients are looking for an easy way to help ease some of the pain and tightness that accompanies a very busy lifestyle. Some get massages, many get Chiropractic care, others choose to work out and or sit on there butts and watch TV. These are all ways to get some relaxation in, however they do not help ease the mechanical muscle tension. This is where a tennis ball or tennis balls come into play.
I tell many of my patients to first buy a can of three balls. Take two of them and put them into an old sock and or panty hose. I prefer the panty hose since this material can breath and prevent mildew build up. You now want to tie off the end so that two tennis balls can move apart about an inch.
Those of you who are familiar with foam rolling and the wonderful benefits that it can provide will also see great relief from the use of a tennis ball since they can get into the smaller muscle groups compared to a foam roller.
Ok enough talk this is what to do. For those who have upper back and neck tension you can take the two tennis balls that are in the sock and lay on them so the tennis balls are between the shoulder blades and around the spine. Here you can roll up and down on the balls and hit all those smaller tension spots that a foam roller cannot get at. Then after that you can use the single ball to get the rest.
Once you master that you can then use the tennis balls on any tense muscle area. Try and stay away from rolling over a bony area since that will possibly create a bruise. You may have to start out on the floor or on the most cushioned area of the house if it is too painful.
The purpose of the tennis balls is to help break up the muscle adhesions that we all get during the day. Using the tennis balls at home will help with the current treatment that many of you are utilizing here at CSI. I tell many of my patients on the first visit about the tennis balls to help them with there current issues. Many use massage however this is a home care method that you can utilize daily.
I recommend that you use the tennis balls over the areas that you feel are the most tense and allow the tennis balls to push in the area for 3-4 minutes then move them. You can do this on all large and small muscle groups to pain tolerance.
Tennis balls I have found are the easiest way to allow some home massage and tension relief. If any of you have questions on how to use the tennis balls and or questions about the previous blogs, please contact me at bfg59@aol.com. Thank you all for your time and may this holiday season bring you all happiness.
Thank you,
Dr. Ed
Thursday, October 9, 2008
BREATHE
Quote: "I complained I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet."
I read this quote and I liked it for several reasons. The main one is that it puts things in perspective. The other quote I heard today was, “You may have lost your wealth, just don’t loose your health”. These two quotes bring us back to reality. With the media showing us all the doom and gloom it gets harder and harder to find that silver lining every day, but its there. Stress can bring us down and we have two choices when we wake up each morning (that in itself is a plus), to have a great day or a bad day. Yes, it’s a choice. It may take you all day to find a reason why it was great but never stop looking for that reason. IT maybe as simple and hearing “I love you” from a loved one, or waking up and seeing that you have a roof over your head, or that you were able to eat, or my favorite, you woke up with less pain than the day before.
Most people put their LIVES ahead of their LIFE. They rush around, worrying about their job, their kids, their material objects. They worry about the health of their loved ones or their friends and never taking the time to tend to their own needs and health. If you are reading this you need to take a reflection to truly look at your self. Are you taking care of yourself by eating right, getting sleep, taking your supplements, getting exercise and getting your regular Chiropractic Adjustments. During times of stress your body goes into hyper speed. If you don't take care of the engine, the body will break down. Stay on the highway of life and care for yourself so you don't end up on the side of the road broken.
With the nation in panic mode, the media lighting the fires and wallstreet not knowing what to do, I felt compelled to write this note and say "BREATH". If you let your health go, then the stress will be more than you can imagine. You always hear, "Until I had cancer I never stopped to appreciate life". Don't wait for the stress to beat you down, combat with proper health so you can deal with everything else.
If you or your company would like one of the CSI Doctors to come to your company and show you and your employees little tricks to lower the stress level so you can focus on the job at hand. Let me know and we can be available for a "lunch and learn" or an evening talk. We will come to you, all you have to do is ask:-)Contact us at www.gotcsi.com
I read this quote and I liked it for several reasons. The main one is that it puts things in perspective. The other quote I heard today was, “You may have lost your wealth, just don’t loose your health”. These two quotes bring us back to reality. With the media showing us all the doom and gloom it gets harder and harder to find that silver lining every day, but its there. Stress can bring us down and we have two choices when we wake up each morning (that in itself is a plus), to have a great day or a bad day. Yes, it’s a choice. It may take you all day to find a reason why it was great but never stop looking for that reason. IT maybe as simple and hearing “I love you” from a loved one, or waking up and seeing that you have a roof over your head, or that you were able to eat, or my favorite, you woke up with less pain than the day before.
Most people put their LIVES ahead of their LIFE. They rush around, worrying about their job, their kids, their material objects. They worry about the health of their loved ones or their friends and never taking the time to tend to their own needs and health. If you are reading this you need to take a reflection to truly look at your self. Are you taking care of yourself by eating right, getting sleep, taking your supplements, getting exercise and getting your regular Chiropractic Adjustments. During times of stress your body goes into hyper speed. If you don't take care of the engine, the body will break down. Stay on the highway of life and care for yourself so you don't end up on the side of the road broken.
With the nation in panic mode, the media lighting the fires and wallstreet not knowing what to do, I felt compelled to write this note and say "BREATH". If you let your health go, then the stress will be more than you can imagine. You always hear, "Until I had cancer I never stopped to appreciate life". Don't wait for the stress to beat you down, combat with proper health so you can deal with everything else.
If you or your company would like one of the CSI Doctors to come to your company and show you and your employees little tricks to lower the stress level so you can focus on the job at hand. Let me know and we can be available for a "lunch and learn" or an evening talk. We will come to you, all you have to do is ask:-)Contact us at www.gotcsi.com
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Ice or Heat- THAT is the Question
By Dr. Ed Green
Ever since becoming interested in Sports Chiropractic I have always been asked the question when to ICE and when to HEAT. I must get that question several times a week. So I am writing this article or as you would say it in the twentieth century, BLOG, to help ease all the thoughts and curious question seekers out there.
HEAT: Heat is good for bringing blood to the injured or sore area and loosening up the tissue to make that area less stiff and more pliable. Heat should be applied before participation in any athletic event. I recommend that patients use heat for no longer than 15-20 minutes. Now, there are two types of heat that are beneficial. The most effective would be that of moist heat. The reason being is that the moist heat can penetrate the skin and get deeper into the tissue with out dehydrating the surround cells. An example of that would be the difference between a burn that is caused by a flame compared to that of a steam burn. As we know the flame burn will char the skin however a steam burn basically melts it away. So if you are wanting to apply heat make sure it is moist heat and do it before an event to help loosen or relax the muscles and surrounding joints.
As for those who like to use the heat rubs or heat liniments, they are only good for a temporary superficial relief. They will desensitize the tissue and bring a small amount of blood to the area however one must be careful in using them so FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS.
ICE: Now here is my favorite thing to use. Yes I know ICE is COLD and that is why it is so beneficial. I have been using ice for many years however; it was my first year at California Lutheran University while on the football team that I got my first real exposure to ICE therapy. It was in the middle of summer, where we all know that the Conejo Valley get in the 100’s. Three days into hell week, I developed some moderate quadriceps tightness with a quad contusion. I went into the training room for some help and the trainer instructed me to hop in the ice bath. So here I am, a 310lb offensive lineman, trying to get my big butt into a small whirl pool bath that is full of ice. IT WAS QUITE A SIGHT. Needles to say, I was in the ice bath everyday after practice.
Ice will decrease the amount of fluid and blood in the injured area. The decreased amounts of fluid and blood will limit the body from forming adhesions and control the amount of lactic acid that is produced. By decreasing these things you will feel less stiffness, less tightness and less pain. I recommended that people ice after they are done with heavy exercise or after an acute injury. During the onset of an initial injury the body wants to surround the area with fluid and blood. By icing you can limit the amount of fl uid and blood and there fore decrease the amount of pain. Your pain level will also decrease with the ice since the sensitive nerve roots will become desensitized.
So now that I have rambled on and on here is my final word. ICE, ICE, ICE for all acute injuries and after rigorous activities that you are sore or stiff afterwards. Use HEAT when you are about to compete or need to be loosened up. You should only use heat for 15-20 minutes and then remove the heat. Never fall asleep with it on. As for ICE, onc should ice the injured area for 15-20 min on and then remove it for 40 min and then apply for another 15-20. Do this 3-4 times a day.
Ok there it is. That is my take on ICE vs. HEAT. I love them both but prefer ICE. Please feel free to comment on this and I will return the favor. AND PLEASE NO COMMENTS ON ME IN A TUB OF ICE.
See you in the office,
Dr. Ed Green
Clinic Director, Moorpark CSI
Ever since becoming interested in Sports Chiropractic I have always been asked the question when to ICE and when to HEAT. I must get that question several times a week. So I am writing this article or as you would say it in the twentieth century, BLOG, to help ease all the thoughts and curious question seekers out there.
HEAT: Heat is good for bringing blood to the injured or sore area and loosening up the tissue to make that area less stiff and more pliable. Heat should be applied before participation in any athletic event. I recommend that patients use heat for no longer than 15-20 minutes. Now, there are two types of heat that are beneficial. The most effective would be that of moist heat. The reason being is that the moist heat can penetrate the skin and get deeper into the tissue with out dehydrating the surround cells. An example of that would be the difference between a burn that is caused by a flame compared to that of a steam burn. As we know the flame burn will char the skin however a steam burn basically melts it away. So if you are wanting to apply heat make sure it is moist heat and do it before an event to help loosen or relax the muscles and surrounding joints.
As for those who like to use the heat rubs or heat liniments, they are only good for a temporary superficial relief. They will desensitize the tissue and bring a small amount of blood to the area however one must be careful in using them so FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS.
ICE: Now here is my favorite thing to use. Yes I know ICE is COLD and that is why it is so beneficial. I have been using ice for many years however; it was my first year at California Lutheran University while on the football team that I got my first real exposure to ICE therapy. It was in the middle of summer, where we all know that the Conejo Valley get in the 100’s. Three days into hell week, I developed some moderate quadriceps tightness with a quad contusion. I went into the training room for some help and the trainer instructed me to hop in the ice bath. So here I am, a 310lb offensive lineman, trying to get my big butt into a small whirl pool bath that is full of ice. IT WAS QUITE A SIGHT. Needles to say, I was in the ice bath everyday after practice.
Ice will decrease the amount of fluid and blood in the injured area. The decreased amounts of fluid and blood will limit the body from forming adhesions and control the amount of lactic acid that is produced. By decreasing these things you will feel less stiffness, less tightness and less pain. I recommended that people ice after they are done with heavy exercise or after an acute injury. During the onset of an initial injury the body wants to surround the area with fluid and blood. By icing you can limit the amount of fl uid and blood and there fore decrease the amount of pain. Your pain level will also decrease with the ice since the sensitive nerve roots will become desensitized.
So now that I have rambled on and on here is my final word. ICE, ICE, ICE for all acute injuries and after rigorous activities that you are sore or stiff afterwards. Use HEAT when you are about to compete or need to be loosened up. You should only use heat for 15-20 minutes and then remove the heat. Never fall asleep with it on. As for ICE, onc should ice the injured area for 15-20 min on and then remove it for 40 min and then apply for another 15-20. Do this 3-4 times a day.
Ok there it is. That is my take on ICE vs. HEAT. I love them both but prefer ICE. Please feel free to comment on this and I will return the favor. AND PLEASE NO COMMENTS ON ME IN A TUB OF ICE.
See you in the office,
Dr. Ed Green
Clinic Director, Moorpark CSI
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Using Chiropractic Care as Preventive Functional Medicine for the upcoming Football Season
By Dr. Derek Pelofsky
Its September and that means only one thing. Football is in full swing. I don’t know about you but I count the days from early January, which is when the college Bowl Championship games are played till the beginning August, the start of Two-a-day practices for teams. I grew up in Oklahoma, and in Oklahoma football is not just a sport it a pretty much a religion. I can remember going to my first University of Oklahoma football game at 5yrs old. Sure enough every Saturday that OU was in Norman for a home game, my dad and I were there thru my college days. Since I’ve lived in Southern California for the past 7 years, my passion for OU and football in general has become even stronger. So my passion for the sport, and having the privilege and ability to play in high school, combined with my passion for sports medicine really fuels what I do for a living.
A subject that I wanted to touch up on is why use chiropractic if not in pain and how it relates to football and sports in general. One of the most common responses I get from patients when asking them how are you doing today is; “well I guess not to good if I’m here. I want to be very clear on this point. Chiropractic and all the different treatments we perform are great to help heal people, and being involved with sports, injuries are going to happen, but the ultimate healthcare minded person is one who looks for preventive medicine. Many people don’t realize that there are many professional athletes around the world that utilize chiropractic as a means to prevent their body from breaking down and keep it running at its highest capacity. A great way to compare this is do you wait for your car to breakdown once the infamous check engine light comes on? No of course not, you do laitance, with regular tune ups and checkups at least every 3,000 miles. Why would you treat your body differently from your car? After all once your body breaks down, that means pain and discomfort which may cause you to lose time at work or just preventing you from the daily things you enjoy doing.
Many of you have a youngster in little league football or even somewhere up in the high school or college level. Now is the time to get these athletes checked out and treated. The most common injuries we see in football are of course knee injures due to all the lateral movement performed. Neck injuries to the nerves that exit the upper neck region and go into the arm, which is known as a “stinger”. Last but not least we see a lot of concussion type injuries due to the all the contact that occurs. As a football player , and as a parent of a football player, I would want to make sure my spine, muscles, and the extremity joints were all working at its highest level to help prevent any of the injuries and allow for a healthy and fun season. Of course this goes for all athletes in all sports, don’t wait for the check engine light to come on before you breakdown! Take care of your body and use the doctors of CSI as the tune-up specialist for your body. BOOMER SOONER!
Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Chiropractic Sports Institute where he has his private practice caring for both Amateur and Professional athletes. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in the field of Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition. Along with an lustrious career as a College Baseball player, Dr. Derek lives and breaths athletics.
Its September and that means only one thing. Football is in full swing. I don’t know about you but I count the days from early January, which is when the college Bowl Championship games are played till the beginning August, the start of Two-a-day practices for teams. I grew up in Oklahoma, and in Oklahoma football is not just a sport it a pretty much a religion. I can remember going to my first University of Oklahoma football game at 5yrs old. Sure enough every Saturday that OU was in Norman for a home game, my dad and I were there thru my college days. Since I’ve lived in Southern California for the past 7 years, my passion for OU and football in general has become even stronger. So my passion for the sport, and having the privilege and ability to play in high school, combined with my passion for sports medicine really fuels what I do for a living.
A subject that I wanted to touch up on is why use chiropractic if not in pain and how it relates to football and sports in general. One of the most common responses I get from patients when asking them how are you doing today is; “well I guess not to good if I’m here. I want to be very clear on this point. Chiropractic and all the different treatments we perform are great to help heal people, and being involved with sports, injuries are going to happen, but the ultimate healthcare minded person is one who looks for preventive medicine. Many people don’t realize that there are many professional athletes around the world that utilize chiropractic as a means to prevent their body from breaking down and keep it running at its highest capacity. A great way to compare this is do you wait for your car to breakdown once the infamous check engine light comes on? No of course not, you do laitance, with regular tune ups and checkups at least every 3,000 miles. Why would you treat your body differently from your car? After all once your body breaks down, that means pain and discomfort which may cause you to lose time at work or just preventing you from the daily things you enjoy doing.
Many of you have a youngster in little league football or even somewhere up in the high school or college level. Now is the time to get these athletes checked out and treated. The most common injuries we see in football are of course knee injures due to all the lateral movement performed. Neck injuries to the nerves that exit the upper neck region and go into the arm, which is known as a “stinger”. Last but not least we see a lot of concussion type injuries due to the all the contact that occurs. As a football player , and as a parent of a football player, I would want to make sure my spine, muscles, and the extremity joints were all working at its highest level to help prevent any of the injuries and allow for a healthy and fun season. Of course this goes for all athletes in all sports, don’t wait for the check engine light to come on before you breakdown! Take care of your body and use the doctors of CSI as the tune-up specialist for your body. BOOMER SOONER!
Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Chiropractic Sports Institute where he has his private practice caring for both Amateur and Professional athletes. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in the field of Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition. Along with an lustrious career as a College Baseball player, Dr. Derek lives and breaths athletics.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Comparing Over the Counter Meds to Natural Anti-Inflammatories
By: Dr. Derek Pelofsky
Practicing as a sports Doctor that sees a lot of acute and painful injuries we are approached with many questions as far as what can the patient do at home to help speed up the healing and decrease pain. Probably one of the most frequently asked questions is should I take Advil, Tylenol, or Aleve?
Doctors of Chiropractic are not allowed to prescribe any prescription drugs or be advising on taking any over the counter pain relievers such as the most common NSAIDS, (non steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs), Advil, Tylenol, and Aleve. So, as a consumer and a active person that might be put in a situation to fall back on using NSAIDS lets get educated on what you are putting into your body, and not influenced by the many commercials that bombard us daily. Like an automobile, your body reacts on the "gas" that is put in its engine. You will research the best products to put in your car so the engine runs smoothly, do you research the best products to put in your body?
NSAIDS in general, work by blocking natural chemicals in your body that cause inflammation. But the drawback is that those same chemicals protect your stomach from burning up in its own acid. So, long term use can eventually cause some serious issues with your gastrointestinal system, mainly the stomach lining causing a possible ulcer or more serious side effects!
Here is a breakdown of the Top 4 types of NSAIDs and a Homeopathic approach that works if not better than regular NSAIDs without the possible side effects.
1.Ibuprofen
Brand Name:Advil, motrin
How it works:When injured your body naturally produces enzymes to heal you, which create swelling, causing pain. Ibuprofen inhibits or stops the enzymes production.
Side effects:Prolonged and excessive use can lead to bleeding or perforation of the stomach or intestines.
Benefits:Reduces swelling at the site of injury.
2.Acetaminophen
Brand Name:Tylenol
How it works:Exact mechanism in unknown, but believed to inhibit or stop pain by blocking enzymes and prostaglandins synthesis in the central nervous system.
Side effects:Excessive acetaminophen use is the number one cause of acute liver failure in the United States.
Benefits:Does not inhibit production of enzymes in the gastrointestinal system, so safer on your gut.
3.Aspirin
Brand Name:Bayer
How it works:Aspirin works the same way ibuprofen does.
Side effects:Similar gastrointestinal effects as seen with ibuprofen, but because aspirin is derived form acetic acid it can also do minor stomach damage.
Benefits:A proven painkiller for the treatment of arthritis. Thins blood, helping lower the risk of heart disease
4.Naproxen Sodium
Brand Name:Aleve
How it works:The same way ibuprofen and aspirin, but its slower to dissolve, which provides longer relief.
Side effects:ulcers, bleeding, and perforation of the stomach or intestines.
Benefits:effective for the treatment of migraines and inflammation.
Also understand this. Naproxen (Aleve), Ibuprofen and Aspirin thin the blood. Do NOT take these meds prior to participating in a high contact sport! If a head injury occurs, the thinning blood COULD lead to complications. The risk is minimal, but there is still a risk that needs to be considered.
At CSI we use several forms of Natural Anti-inflammatory substances. Since most Pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory medication originate from chemicals found in nature, we have gone to the direct source- Nature. Below, is our answer to fight off the pain of inflammation, but since these products are made with natural, organic ingredients, we have found that they sometime work faster than their pharmaceutical counterparts. There are many products on the market, we have tried most of them and have found these to be consistent with little to no side effects.
Traumeel is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, ant-edematous, anti-exudate combination formulation of 12 botanical and 2 mineral substances. This is a topical cream that works great.
1.Traumeel
How it works:helps control the release of oxygen radicals from white blood cells(neutrophils) and stops the release of inflammatory substances.
Benefits:effective for injuries of all kinds, such as: sprains, muscle aches, dislocations, contusions, burns, effusions of blood and effusions into a joint, post operative and post-traumatic edema and swelling of the soft tissues, inflammatory processes and degenerative processes(arthritis), are just a few types of injuries that can treated with traumeel. Traummel is available as a topical ointment, as oral tablets, oral drops, and oral liquid in vials.
Side effects: none, specifically used to treat elderly arthritic patients who cannot tolerate the gastrointestinal side effects associated with conventional NSAIDs or for patients on anticoagulant(blood thinners) medication.
CSI also offers many different homeopathic blends made by a company called Anabolic laboratories, Metagenics, Nutri-West and Standard Process. All of these companies feature a fully licensed, federally registered pharmaceutical manufacturing facility and state-of-the-art laboratories staffed with PhD scientists and chemist to help produce the highest grade quality of homeopathic supplements to help speed healing in many different musculoskeletal injuries. A few examples of products we carry in the office are:
6.Zymain
How it works:formulated enzymes that breakdown inflammatory proteins. Provides aminoglyco-nutrients for cartilage repair. Also contains vitamin C, manganese and zinc, which aid in biosynthesis of new collagen-depositing tissues and stimulate new cell growth within joints.
Benefits:repair tissue damage by increasing blood flow to, and drainage from, damaged areas to quickly reduce injury inflammation.
Side effects:none, if taken correctly with appropriate dosage.
7.Pro-enz:
How it works: contains curcumin, ursolic acid, and bioflavanoids reduce powerful pro-inflammatory enzymes and tissue damaging metalloproteinases.
Benefits:helps reduce pain and inflammation form superficial and deep muscle bruises, tendon, and ligament complaints and injuries.
Side effects:none, if taken correctly with appropriate dosage.
The most natural way of fighting of injury and to help speed up the healing process is by eating the right foods. The right fats and oils such as omega 3 essential fatty acids are great inflammation fighters. They are found in cold water oily fish, walnuts, and flax seeds.
Good sources of protein anti-inflammatory foods are soybeans, tofu, and soy milk. Red meat may trigger inflammation.
Good sources of carbohydrate and fiber anti-inflammatory are whole grains, vegetables and fruits. High fiber diets will reduce inflammation.. Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries which are packed with anti-inflammatory phytochemicals are great to reduce inflammation.
If your diet does not get you enough, this is ONE suppliment you NEED to take, we carry, in my opinion, the best source of Omega 3s but Nurti-West.
So, when in need of an over the counter medication to help control either inflammation or pain you will be better educated with the pros and cons of these medications. Also hope you will be open to the many different types of homeopathic blends, such as Traumeel, Anabolic lab products, Nutri-West, Metagenics, Standard Process, and anti-inflammatory foods that are just as effective if not more effective as the common NSAIDs without the possible side effects.
We welcome any comments
Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Chiropractic Sports Institute where he has his private practice caring for both Amature and Professional atheltes. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in the field of Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition. Along with a lustrious career as a College Baseball player, Dr. Derek lives and breaths athletics.
Practicing as a sports Doctor that sees a lot of acute and painful injuries we are approached with many questions as far as what can the patient do at home to help speed up the healing and decrease pain. Probably one of the most frequently asked questions is should I take Advil, Tylenol, or Aleve?
Doctors of Chiropractic are not allowed to prescribe any prescription drugs or be advising on taking any over the counter pain relievers such as the most common NSAIDS, (non steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs), Advil, Tylenol, and Aleve. So, as a consumer and a active person that might be put in a situation to fall back on using NSAIDS lets get educated on what you are putting into your body, and not influenced by the many commercials that bombard us daily. Like an automobile, your body reacts on the "gas" that is put in its engine. You will research the best products to put in your car so the engine runs smoothly, do you research the best products to put in your body?
NSAIDS in general, work by blocking natural chemicals in your body that cause inflammation. But the drawback is that those same chemicals protect your stomach from burning up in its own acid. So, long term use can eventually cause some serious issues with your gastrointestinal system, mainly the stomach lining causing a possible ulcer or more serious side effects!
Here is a breakdown of the Top 4 types of NSAIDs and a Homeopathic approach that works if not better than regular NSAIDs without the possible side effects.
1.Ibuprofen
Brand Name:Advil, motrin
How it works:When injured your body naturally produces enzymes to heal you, which create swelling, causing pain. Ibuprofen inhibits or stops the enzymes production.
Side effects:Prolonged and excessive use can lead to bleeding or perforation of the stomach or intestines.
Benefits:Reduces swelling at the site of injury.
2.Acetaminophen
Brand Name:Tylenol
How it works:Exact mechanism in unknown, but believed to inhibit or stop pain by blocking enzymes and prostaglandins synthesis in the central nervous system.
Side effects:Excessive acetaminophen use is the number one cause of acute liver failure in the United States.
Benefits:Does not inhibit production of enzymes in the gastrointestinal system, so safer on your gut.
3.Aspirin
Brand Name:Bayer
How it works:Aspirin works the same way ibuprofen does.
Side effects:Similar gastrointestinal effects as seen with ibuprofen, but because aspirin is derived form acetic acid it can also do minor stomach damage.
Benefits:A proven painkiller for the treatment of arthritis. Thins blood, helping lower the risk of heart disease
4.Naproxen Sodium
Brand Name:Aleve
How it works:The same way ibuprofen and aspirin, but its slower to dissolve, which provides longer relief.
Side effects:ulcers, bleeding, and perforation of the stomach or intestines.
Benefits:effective for the treatment of migraines and inflammation.
Also understand this. Naproxen (Aleve), Ibuprofen and Aspirin thin the blood. Do NOT take these meds prior to participating in a high contact sport! If a head injury occurs, the thinning blood COULD lead to complications. The risk is minimal, but there is still a risk that needs to be considered.
At CSI we use several forms of Natural Anti-inflammatory substances. Since most Pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory medication originate from chemicals found in nature, we have gone to the direct source- Nature. Below, is our answer to fight off the pain of inflammation, but since these products are made with natural, organic ingredients, we have found that they sometime work faster than their pharmaceutical counterparts. There are many products on the market, we have tried most of them and have found these to be consistent with little to no side effects.
Traumeel is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, ant-edematous, anti-exudate combination formulation of 12 botanical and 2 mineral substances. This is a topical cream that works great.
1.Traumeel
How it works:helps control the release of oxygen radicals from white blood cells(neutrophils) and stops the release of inflammatory substances.
Benefits:effective for injuries of all kinds, such as: sprains, muscle aches, dislocations, contusions, burns, effusions of blood and effusions into a joint, post operative and post-traumatic edema and swelling of the soft tissues, inflammatory processes and degenerative processes(arthritis), are just a few types of injuries that can treated with traumeel. Traummel is available as a topical ointment, as oral tablets, oral drops, and oral liquid in vials.
Side effects: none, specifically used to treat elderly arthritic patients who cannot tolerate the gastrointestinal side effects associated with conventional NSAIDs or for patients on anticoagulant(blood thinners) medication.
CSI also offers many different homeopathic blends made by a company called Anabolic laboratories, Metagenics, Nutri-West and Standard Process. All of these companies feature a fully licensed, federally registered pharmaceutical manufacturing facility and state-of-the-art laboratories staffed with PhD scientists and chemist to help produce the highest grade quality of homeopathic supplements to help speed healing in many different musculoskeletal injuries. A few examples of products we carry in the office are:
6.Zymain
How it works:formulated enzymes that breakdown inflammatory proteins. Provides aminoglyco-nutrients for cartilage repair. Also contains vitamin C, manganese and zinc, which aid in biosynthesis of new collagen-depositing tissues and stimulate new cell growth within joints.
Benefits:repair tissue damage by increasing blood flow to, and drainage from, damaged areas to quickly reduce injury inflammation.
Side effects:none, if taken correctly with appropriate dosage.
7.Pro-enz:
How it works: contains curcumin, ursolic acid, and bioflavanoids reduce powerful pro-inflammatory enzymes and tissue damaging metalloproteinases.
Benefits:helps reduce pain and inflammation form superficial and deep muscle bruises, tendon, and ligament complaints and injuries.
Side effects:none, if taken correctly with appropriate dosage.
The most natural way of fighting of injury and to help speed up the healing process is by eating the right foods. The right fats and oils such as omega 3 essential fatty acids are great inflammation fighters. They are found in cold water oily fish, walnuts, and flax seeds.
Good sources of protein anti-inflammatory foods are soybeans, tofu, and soy milk. Red meat may trigger inflammation.
Good sources of carbohydrate and fiber anti-inflammatory are whole grains, vegetables and fruits. High fiber diets will reduce inflammation.. Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries which are packed with anti-inflammatory phytochemicals are great to reduce inflammation.
If your diet does not get you enough, this is ONE suppliment you NEED to take, we carry, in my opinion, the best source of Omega 3s but Nurti-West.
So, when in need of an over the counter medication to help control either inflammation or pain you will be better educated with the pros and cons of these medications. Also hope you will be open to the many different types of homeopathic blends, such as Traumeel, Anabolic lab products, Nutri-West, Metagenics, Standard Process, and anti-inflammatory foods that are just as effective if not more effective as the common NSAIDs without the possible side effects.
We welcome any comments
Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Chiropractic Sports Institute where he has his private practice caring for both Amature and Professional atheltes. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in the field of Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition. Along with a lustrious career as a College Baseball player, Dr. Derek lives and breaths athletics.
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