Where Should Back Pain Sufferers Seek Care If They Want To Avoid Surgery?
A new study released in the prestigious Spine Journal (15 May 2013 -
Volume 38 - Issue 11 - p 953–964) sheds some light on this question.
Apparently, the type of physician that you see first, will significantly increase your chances of getting back surgery. From the journal article:
"Approximately 42.7% of workers who first saw a surgeon had surgery, in
contrast to only 1.5% of those who saw a chiropractor."
Moral
of the story... "If you go to Midas, you're gonna get a muffler. If
you go to a surgeon, you're gonna get surgery." (thank you Dr. Perman
for that great quote) I recommend trying the most conservative
approaches first, and surgery should always be the last option. For
more information, go to our website at www.DrGordonOnline.net
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Friday, June 29, 2012
Obamacare - The Pros and Cons
After yesterday's Supreme Court ruling on the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), I have several patients and friends ask for my opinion on the pros and cons of the legislation. Below of summarized what I feel to be the good and bad aspects of the Obamacare legislation. Some portions of the law have already gone into effect, while the major portions of the legislation including the 'individual mandate tax' to purchase health insurance, will be begin in 2014.
Pros:
- Insurance companies will no longer be able to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions.
- Younger adults will be able to stay on their parents' insurance plan until the age of 26.
- A larger portion of the general population will have insurance coverage.
- Starting in 2014, all lower income individuals will be able to enroll in Medicaid.
- Closing of the 'donut hole' in Medicare Part D coverage.
- No annual or lifetime benefit limits in insurance coverage.
- Anti-discrimination language is included to ensure equality amongst provider groups (MDs, DOs, and DCs)
Cons:
- Infringement upon individual liberties - for the first time in American history, individuals are being forced to buy a product against their will.
- Government being interjected between the doctor and the patient.
- By 2019, 4.8 million seniors will be forced out of Medicare Advantage.
- Obamacare cuts $528 billion dollars out of Medicare, resulting in decreased services and reimbursement to providers.
- A reduced number of providers will accept Medicare patients due to the reduced reimbursement and increased paperwork involved.
- The 'Doctor Fix' dilemma - there has been a steadily increasing reimbursement percentage cut for Medicare providers. Neither political party is willing to implement the pay cut (currently over 27%) because they realize that it will result in a mass exodus of providers from Medicare. This will cause a shortage in doctors for Medicare beneficiaries, increase wait times in offices continuing to take Medicare patients, and increase emergency room visits. This 'Doctor Fix' composes over $500 billion of which the supporters of the Affordable Care Act propose to pay for it, and equate the implementation of this Act as a net 'cost savings'. The problem is that if the 'Doctor Fix' is never implemented, the Affordable Care become 'unaffordable' costing the American taxpayers over $500 billion dollars.
- Increased taxes associated with Obamacare / the Affordable Care Act:
- Individual Mandate Excise Tax - beginning in 2014, those without 'qualifying' health insurance will be taxed 1% of their adjusted gross income (this rises to 2% in 2015, and remains at 2.5% for 2016 and beyond).
- Employer Mandate Tax - applies to employers with over 50 employees that does not provide health insurance for employees. The employer is fined $2,000 - $3,000 per full time employee (amount depends upon whether the employee acquires their insurance through an exchange).
- Surtax on Investment Income - applies to individuals making over $200,000, and families and small business owners making over $250,000. Applies an additional 3.8% tax on investment income (capital gains, dividends, etc...). This would bring capital gains tax rates to 23.8%, and dividends tax rates to 43.4%. This tax does not apply to non-resident aliens.
- Excise Tax on Comprehensive Health Insurance Plans ('Cadillac Plans') - beginning in 2018, there will be a new 40% tax on high-end 'Cadillac Plans'.
- Medicare Payroll Tax Increase - for those making over $200,000, their Medicare Payroll tax will increase from 2.9% to 3.8%.
- Medicine Cabinet Tax - Americans will no longer be able to use their pre-tax dollars in Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flex Spending Accounts (FSAs) to purchase non-prescription, over the counter medications (except insulin).
- Flex Spending Account Cap - imposes a cap of $2,500 on FSAs (currently unlimited). This tax has been dubbed the "Special Needs Kids Tax" because many families with special needs children use their FSA to pay for education costs, and will be hit especially hard.
- Medical Device Manufacturer Tax - Obamacare imparts a new 2.3% tax on all medical devices costing over $100. This will increase healthcare costs.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Hypertension - What You Need To Know.
The following are important factors regarding managing high blood pressure:
- Sleep apnea doubles the risk of having elevated blood pressure and is one of the number one risk factors for hypertension.
- Drugs such as contraceptives, anti-depressants, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories can increase your blood pressure and interfere with blood pressure medications.
- Studies show that purple potatoes, olive oil, raisins, and dark chocolate all lower blood pressure.
- Herbal extracts including grape seed extract and pomegranate both lower blood pressure.
- Daily magnesium supplementation can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
- Exercise and weight loss are essential to lowering your body mass index (BMI) and thus your blood pressure.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Omega 3 Helps To Prevent Alzheimer's Disease
The following article from Fox News describes the benefits of Omega 3 oils in the prevention of Alzheimer's Disease:
Eating foods such as chicken, fish and nuts may help lower blood levels of a protein strongly associated with Alzheimer's disease and memory problems, according to new research.
In the Columbia University study, people who consumed diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids had significantly lower levels of a protein called beta-amyloid in their blood than those who did not consume as much of the nutrient.
According to the research, eating one more gram of omega-3s than average per week was associated with 20 to 30 percent lower levels of beta-amyloid. One gram is approximately equal to half a fillet of salmon.
However, study author Dr. Nikolaos Scarmeas, a neurologist at Columbia University Medical Center in New York and a member of the American Academy of Neurology, recommended not focusing on eating particular quantities of omega-3s, but rather, simply incorporating as much of the nutrient into one’s diet as possible.
"It was a continuous association. More and more intake of omega-3s was associated with lower and lower levels of beta-amyloid in the blood. There was no threshold effect," Scarmeas said.
The association between omega-3 consumption and beta-amyloid was unaffected by whether or not a person took supplements - meaning if two people consumed the same amount of omega-3s, one through food and the other through supplements, the person who consumed more omega-3 rich foods typically had lower blood levels of beta-amyloid.
It is believed that the build-up of beta-amyloid in the brain, not the blood, is a precursor for Alzheimer's. However, past studies have indicated there may be a relationship between blood levels and brain levels of the protein.
“There is complex, conflicting literature; we do not understand very well biologically how levels of beta-amyloid in the blood, brain and spinal fluid are related exactly,” Scarmeas said. "In some studies, higher levels of beta-amyloid in the blood relate to higher levels of beta-amyloid in the brain. Other studies have suggested the opposite."
Scarmeas added that his own lab had observed that people with higher blood levels of beta-amyloid were more likely to develop dementia, while people with lower levels tended not to.
“Some of these [participants] have already been followed up on,” he said. “We know those with lower levels of beta-amyloid in the blood were less likely to develop dementia.”
The beneficial impact of omega-3 on brain health would fall in line with past studies of the nutrient, according to Scarmeas. Omega-3s have long been associated with positive benefits for memory and cognition.
Scarmeas speculated that omega-3s may be able to reduce oxidative stress on the brain and the resulting vascular damage, or even have some kind of impact on beta-amyloid in the brain. Though, there is not enough support yet to suggest the nutrient and protein are directly related, he added.
"Previous studies have suggested that omega-3s and other aspects of diet may be related to brain function," he said. "Here we demonstrate one possible mechanism could be through amyloid, the main biological mechanism that relates to Alzheimer's disease. There have been animal studies suggesting omega-3s could relate to amyloid brain biology. We've demonstrated this association may also be present in humans."
The study was published Wednesday in the journal Neurology.
Friday, April 20, 2012
How The New PIP / Auto Accident Legislation Will Affect Florida Consumers.
On the last day of the Florida legislative session, the Florida House & Senate agreed upon and passed a PIP Reform Bill which will change auto accident insurance coverage for Florida consumers. Some of the new legislation will go into effect on July 1, 2012 (other portions go into effect on January 1, 2013). This new legislation will have dire consequences for consumers in the State of Florida. To help inform the public, I have summarized the important changes to the PIP system so that consumers will have the information available in the event that they are in an auto accident. Please feel free to share this information with your friends, family, and neighbors.
• Time Limit To Report To Your Doctor’s Office Or ER:
o How It Affects You – The new legislation dictates that a person injured in an auto accident must present to a physician’s office or emergency room within 14 days of the auto accident. If the patient doesn’t seek care within 14 days, they will be ineligible for any PIP benefits for their injuries.
• Reduction Of Coverage to $2,500 from $10,000:
o How It Affects You – The new legislation differentiates between an ‘emergency medical condition’ (EMC) and a ‘non-emergency medical condition’ (non-EMC). An EMC can only be diagnosed by an MD, DO, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, not a chiropractor (discriminatory against DC’s). If the patient is diagnosed with a non-EMC, they will only be able to use $2,500 of the $10,000 that the patient is paying for as part of his/her PIP insurance. The full $10,000 will only be accessible if the patient is diagnosed with an EMC. Unfortunately, the Florida legislature did not delineate what constitutes an EMC.
• Examinations Under Oath (EUO):
o How It Affects You – The new law permits the insurer to subject the injured person to an ‘examination under oath’ to determine if there are verifiable injuries that are not fraudulent. The law also allows the auto insurer to suspend payments to doctors until the patient goes through the examination under oath. You must attend the EUO or your insurer can ‘cut off’ your coverage.
• Rate Roll Backs For Insurance Premiums:
o How It Affects You – This new legislation was passed in the name of ‘anti-fraud’ and to reduce costs to Florida consumers. Unfortunately, the law makers did not include concrete rules to require insurance companies to roll back or reduce insurance premiums for consumers.
In conclusion, insurance companies will continue to charge Florida drivers higher rates for PIP coverage, but consumers will receive reduced benefits ($2,500 vs $10,000) and more ‘hoops to jump through’ to get care for their injuries. This law restricts consumer choice for healthcare and is a payoff to the insurance industry.
So, what should you do in the event that you are in an auto accident? Be sure to contact our office within 14 days of your accident (the sooner the better in the event that a referral is needed to an MD or DO). If a referral is necessary, we will be sure to get you examined by an MD or DO within 14 days to ensure that you receive the benefits for an EMC if it is deemed medically necessary.
For more information, contact our office at:
Dr. Jeremy Gordon – Chiropractic Physician – 905 N. Stone Street – DeLand. (386)734-9995
• Time Limit To Report To Your Doctor’s Office Or ER:
o How It Affects You – The new legislation dictates that a person injured in an auto accident must present to a physician’s office or emergency room within 14 days of the auto accident. If the patient doesn’t seek care within 14 days, they will be ineligible for any PIP benefits for their injuries.
• Reduction Of Coverage to $2,500 from $10,000:
o How It Affects You – The new legislation differentiates between an ‘emergency medical condition’ (EMC) and a ‘non-emergency medical condition’ (non-EMC). An EMC can only be diagnosed by an MD, DO, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, not a chiropractor (discriminatory against DC’s). If the patient is diagnosed with a non-EMC, they will only be able to use $2,500 of the $10,000 that the patient is paying for as part of his/her PIP insurance. The full $10,000 will only be accessible if the patient is diagnosed with an EMC. Unfortunately, the Florida legislature did not delineate what constitutes an EMC.
• Examinations Under Oath (EUO):
o How It Affects You – The new law permits the insurer to subject the injured person to an ‘examination under oath’ to determine if there are verifiable injuries that are not fraudulent. The law also allows the auto insurer to suspend payments to doctors until the patient goes through the examination under oath. You must attend the EUO or your insurer can ‘cut off’ your coverage.
• Rate Roll Backs For Insurance Premiums:
o How It Affects You – This new legislation was passed in the name of ‘anti-fraud’ and to reduce costs to Florida consumers. Unfortunately, the law makers did not include concrete rules to require insurance companies to roll back or reduce insurance premiums for consumers.
In conclusion, insurance companies will continue to charge Florida drivers higher rates for PIP coverage, but consumers will receive reduced benefits ($2,500 vs $10,000) and more ‘hoops to jump through’ to get care for their injuries. This law restricts consumer choice for healthcare and is a payoff to the insurance industry.
So, what should you do in the event that you are in an auto accident? Be sure to contact our office within 14 days of your accident (the sooner the better in the event that a referral is needed to an MD or DO). If a referral is necessary, we will be sure to get you examined by an MD or DO within 14 days to ensure that you receive the benefits for an EMC if it is deemed medically necessary.
For more information, contact our office at:
Dr. Jeremy Gordon – Chiropractic Physician – 905 N. Stone Street – DeLand. (386)734-9995
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Obesity Linked To Autism?
The article below is from Reuters and it details new findings from the journal Pediatrics linking autism to a mother's obesity during pregnancy. Pass this information along to your friends and family.
(Reuters) - Children born to obese women are more likely to be diagnosed with autism or related developmental delays than the children of slimmer mothers, according to a U.S. survey.
The research, which appeared in Pediatrics, was looking for the impact on childrens' cognitive development from a variety of "metabolic conditions" in the mother, including high blood pressure or diabetes. The strongest links were found between obesity and autism-related disorders.
Although the study cannot prove that one condition causes the other, its authors caution that even the possibility is worrisome in the light of rising U.S. obesity rates.
"If there is anything you can do to make yourself healthier, this is yet another reason for moms to consider," said Paula Krakowiak, a researcher at the University of California, Davis, who led the study.
The study comes on the heels of a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that estimated one in every 88 children in the U.S. has an autism spectrum disorder. That number represents about a 25 percent increase from the agency's last report in 2006.
Krakowiak and her colleagues looked at 1,004 children who were between two and five years old, born in California and already participating in a study underway at UC Davis.
Of those children, 517 had an autism spectrum disorder and 172 had developmental delays. For Krakowiak's study, the children's diagnoses were confirmed by a re-evaluation at the UC Davis MIND Institute.
Milder versions of autism, such as Asperger's syndrome, form a "spectrum" of autism-related disorders. In addition, impairments in any one of the autism-related cognitive skill areas are considered developmental delays.
Among the children in the study with an autism spectrum disorder, 48 were born to mothers with Type 2 or gestational diabetes, 111 to mothers who were obese and 148 to mothers with any sort of metabolic condition, like high blood pressure.
For children with a developmental delay, 20 were born to mothers with Type 2 or gestational diabetes, 41 to mothers who were obese and 60 to a mother with any metabolic condition.
Overall, the connection between diabetes in a mother and her child being diagnosed with autism was not significant, but the researchers did find links between a mother being obese or having other metabolic conditions and her child having autism.
Developmental delays were associated with both obesity and diabetes, along with having any other metabolic condition.
"There is definitely an association present and it adds to the reasons for finding ways to lower obesity rates or diabetes rates and make greater efforts to change lifestyle factors," Krakowiak said.
She and her colleagues also noted that nearly 60 percent of U.S. women of childbearing age are overweight, one third are obese and 16 percent have so-called metabolic syndrome - a constellation of symptoms, including high blood pressure and insulin resistance, that raise heart risk.
Although nobody can say the nation's rising obesity rate is to blame for the prevalence of autism, Krakowiak said the parallel increases did catch her attention.
Hannah Gardener, an epidemiologist in the Department of Neurology at the University of Miami, told Reuters Health that she thinks it's natural for people to connect the two rates.
"There is a lot that is unknown and studies like these really help us figure out the questions that need to be answered," Gardener said.
But she warned that researchers are far from understanding what might create a link between obesity and autism.
(Reuters) - Children born to obese women are more likely to be diagnosed with autism or related developmental delays than the children of slimmer mothers, according to a U.S. survey.
The research, which appeared in Pediatrics, was looking for the impact on childrens' cognitive development from a variety of "metabolic conditions" in the mother, including high blood pressure or diabetes. The strongest links were found between obesity and autism-related disorders.
Although the study cannot prove that one condition causes the other, its authors caution that even the possibility is worrisome in the light of rising U.S. obesity rates.
"If there is anything you can do to make yourself healthier, this is yet another reason for moms to consider," said Paula Krakowiak, a researcher at the University of California, Davis, who led the study.
The study comes on the heels of a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that estimated one in every 88 children in the U.S. has an autism spectrum disorder. That number represents about a 25 percent increase from the agency's last report in 2006.
Krakowiak and her colleagues looked at 1,004 children who were between two and five years old, born in California and already participating in a study underway at UC Davis.
Of those children, 517 had an autism spectrum disorder and 172 had developmental delays. For Krakowiak's study, the children's diagnoses were confirmed by a re-evaluation at the UC Davis MIND Institute.
Milder versions of autism, such as Asperger's syndrome, form a "spectrum" of autism-related disorders. In addition, impairments in any one of the autism-related cognitive skill areas are considered developmental delays.
Among the children in the study with an autism spectrum disorder, 48 were born to mothers with Type 2 or gestational diabetes, 111 to mothers who were obese and 148 to mothers with any sort of metabolic condition, like high blood pressure.
For children with a developmental delay, 20 were born to mothers with Type 2 or gestational diabetes, 41 to mothers who were obese and 60 to a mother with any metabolic condition.
Overall, the connection between diabetes in a mother and her child being diagnosed with autism was not significant, but the researchers did find links between a mother being obese or having other metabolic conditions and her child having autism.
Developmental delays were associated with both obesity and diabetes, along with having any other metabolic condition.
"There is definitely an association present and it adds to the reasons for finding ways to lower obesity rates or diabetes rates and make greater efforts to change lifestyle factors," Krakowiak said.
She and her colleagues also noted that nearly 60 percent of U.S. women of childbearing age are overweight, one third are obese and 16 percent have so-called metabolic syndrome - a constellation of symptoms, including high blood pressure and insulin resistance, that raise heart risk.
Although nobody can say the nation's rising obesity rate is to blame for the prevalence of autism, Krakowiak said the parallel increases did catch her attention.
Hannah Gardener, an epidemiologist in the Department of Neurology at the University of Miami, told Reuters Health that she thinks it's natural for people to connect the two rates.
"There is a lot that is unknown and studies like these really help us figure out the questions that need to be answered," Gardener said.
But she warned that researchers are far from understanding what might create a link between obesity and autism.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Estrogen Increases Cancer Risk...New Study Findings
Below is important information regarding the safety of estrogen replacement in menopausal woman. This article was taken off of the Yahoo Health website:
"Several weeks after a study suggested that women who take estrogen-only hormone replacement to treat menopause symptoms may be at lower risk for developing breast cancer, another, much-larger study finds that when used for longer than 10 years, estrogen-only regimens actually raise a woman's long-term risk for breast cancer.
The new study was funded by the National Cancer Institute, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, whereas the previous one was partially funded by drug manufacturer Wyeth.
Researchers evaluated follow-up data from the Nurse's Health Study collected from 1980 through 2008. The women in the study were 30 to 55 years old in 1976. Overall, the risk for breast cancer was 88 percent higher among women who had taken estrogen plus progesterone for 10 to 14.9 years, compared to women who did not. This risk more than doubled for women who used estrogen-plus-progesterone therapy for 15 to 19.9 years.
Women who used estrogen-only therapy after menopause had 22 percent increased risk for breast cancer if they used it for 10 to 14.9 years, and 43 percent greater risk if they used it longer than 15 years.
There was no increased risk seen among women who took estrogen for fewer than 10 years. Women did not have an increased risk of dying from breast cancer, the study showed.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) fell from grace after the U.S. Women's Health Initiative study was stopped early in 2002 because HRT was shown to increase the risk of strokes and breast and ovarian cancer. Some subtleties have emerged since that time. For example, short-term use of HRT is now deemed fairly safe for some women who have severe menopausal symptoms. Estrogen-only therapy is reserved for women who have had a hysterectomy; women with an intact uterus who use HRT must take the hormone progestin (synthetic progesterone) with estrogen to prevent uterine cancer.
"For combination therapy there is so much data about the dangers that we really tell people that if they must take it to treat symptoms, they should only do so for a year or two at most," said study author Dr. Wendy Chen, an associate physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital and an assistant professor in medicine at the Breast Cancer Treatment Center at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. "For estrogen alone, there is more safety data for someone who wants to take it for five or six years."
Chen is scheduled to present her findings at this week's annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in Chicago.
Her advice is for women to think about why they are taking supplemental hormones. "If it is for hot flashes, they don't last forever," she said. If vaginal dryness is the issue, there are vaginal hormone preparations. "You are not going to have the systemic effects that you will from talking a pill," she said.
Dr. Larry Norton, deputy physician-in-chief for breast cancer programs at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and medical director of the Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center, in New York City, does not recommend that women take estrogen after menopause.
"The jury is still out on how safe estrogen alone is, but I am not recommending it, and the major reason why is because every drug I know that reduces the risk of breast cancer reduces estrogen," he said. "Saying an estrogen is going to be safe raises an important question mark in my mind," Norton said. "Alternative treatments may help treat the symptoms and risks associated with menopause, so why take the chance?"
Because the new study was presented at a medical meeting, the data and conclusions should be viewed as preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal."
"Several weeks after a study suggested that women who take estrogen-only hormone replacement to treat menopause symptoms may be at lower risk for developing breast cancer, another, much-larger study finds that when used for longer than 10 years, estrogen-only regimens actually raise a woman's long-term risk for breast cancer.
The new study was funded by the National Cancer Institute, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, whereas the previous one was partially funded by drug manufacturer Wyeth.
Researchers evaluated follow-up data from the Nurse's Health Study collected from 1980 through 2008. The women in the study were 30 to 55 years old in 1976. Overall, the risk for breast cancer was 88 percent higher among women who had taken estrogen plus progesterone for 10 to 14.9 years, compared to women who did not. This risk more than doubled for women who used estrogen-plus-progesterone therapy for 15 to 19.9 years.
Women who used estrogen-only therapy after menopause had 22 percent increased risk for breast cancer if they used it for 10 to 14.9 years, and 43 percent greater risk if they used it longer than 15 years.
There was no increased risk seen among women who took estrogen for fewer than 10 years. Women did not have an increased risk of dying from breast cancer, the study showed.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) fell from grace after the U.S. Women's Health Initiative study was stopped early in 2002 because HRT was shown to increase the risk of strokes and breast and ovarian cancer. Some subtleties have emerged since that time. For example, short-term use of HRT is now deemed fairly safe for some women who have severe menopausal symptoms. Estrogen-only therapy is reserved for women who have had a hysterectomy; women with an intact uterus who use HRT must take the hormone progestin (synthetic progesterone) with estrogen to prevent uterine cancer.
"For combination therapy there is so much data about the dangers that we really tell people that if they must take it to treat symptoms, they should only do so for a year or two at most," said study author Dr. Wendy Chen, an associate physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital and an assistant professor in medicine at the Breast Cancer Treatment Center at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. "For estrogen alone, there is more safety data for someone who wants to take it for five or six years."
Chen is scheduled to present her findings at this week's annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in Chicago.
Her advice is for women to think about why they are taking supplemental hormones. "If it is for hot flashes, they don't last forever," she said. If vaginal dryness is the issue, there are vaginal hormone preparations. "You are not going to have the systemic effects that you will from talking a pill," she said.
Dr. Larry Norton, deputy physician-in-chief for breast cancer programs at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and medical director of the Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center, in New York City, does not recommend that women take estrogen after menopause.
"The jury is still out on how safe estrogen alone is, but I am not recommending it, and the major reason why is because every drug I know that reduces the risk of breast cancer reduces estrogen," he said. "Saying an estrogen is going to be safe raises an important question mark in my mind," Norton said. "Alternative treatments may help treat the symptoms and risks associated with menopause, so why take the chance?"
Because the new study was presented at a medical meeting, the data and conclusions should be viewed as preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal."
Friday, March 16, 2012
White Rice Increases Incidence of Diabetes.
Eating white rice could increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, Harvard researchers claimed.
Each large serving of white rice was linked to an 11 percent increased risk, scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health concluded from an analysis of four studies carried out in China, Japan, Australia and the U.S.
The study authors wrote in the British Medical Journal, "We found that higher white rice consumption was associated with a significantly elevated risk of Type 2 diabetes. This association seems to be stronger for Asians than for Western populations."
The studies followed 350,000 people over 22 years -- during which time more than 13,000 people developed Type 2 diabetes.
The researchers noted that compared with brown rice, white rice has a lower content of many nutrients including fiber, magnesium and vitamins, some of which -- especially fiber and magnesium -- are thought to protect against diabetes.
White rice is the most common type of rice eaten worldwide. The researchers claimed that people in Asian countries eat it an average of three to four times a day, compared with an average of one to two servings a week for people in Western countries.
The Harvard researchers said the study took into account a variety of factors including weight, lifestyle and diet.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/03/16/white-rice-increases-diabetes-risk-scientists-say/#ixzz1pIMPVgxr
Each large serving of white rice was linked to an 11 percent increased risk, scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health concluded from an analysis of four studies carried out in China, Japan, Australia and the U.S.
The study authors wrote in the British Medical Journal, "We found that higher white rice consumption was associated with a significantly elevated risk of Type 2 diabetes. This association seems to be stronger for Asians than for Western populations."
The studies followed 350,000 people over 22 years -- during which time more than 13,000 people developed Type 2 diabetes.
The researchers noted that compared with brown rice, white rice has a lower content of many nutrients including fiber, magnesium and vitamins, some of which -- especially fiber and magnesium -- are thought to protect against diabetes.
White rice is the most common type of rice eaten worldwide. The researchers claimed that people in Asian countries eat it an average of three to four times a day, compared with an average of one to two servings a week for people in Western countries.
The Harvard researchers said the study took into account a variety of factors including weight, lifestyle and diet.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/03/16/white-rice-increases-diabetes-risk-scientists-say/#ixzz1pIMPVgxr
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Cholesterol Not The Cause Of Heart Disease??
World Renown Heart Surgeon Speaks Out On What Really Causes Heart Disease
We physicians with all our training, knowledge and authority often acquire a rather large ego that tends to make it difficult to admit we are wrong. So, here it is. I freely admit to being wrong.. As a heart surgeon with 25 years experience, having performed over 5,000 open-heart surgeries,today is my day to right the wrong with medical and scientific fact.
I trained for many years with other prominent physicians labelled “opinion makers.” Bombarded with scientific literature, continually attending education seminars, we opinion makers insisted heart disease resulted from the simple fact of elevated blood cholesterol.
The only accepted therapy was prescribing medications to lower cholesterol and a diet that severely restricted fat intake. The latter of course we insisted would lower cholesterol and heart disease. Deviations from these recommendations were considered heresy and could quite possibly result in malpractice.
It Is Not Working!
These recommendations are no longer scientifically or morally defensible. The discovery a few years ago that inflammation in the artery wall is the real cause of heart disease is slowly leading to a paradigm shift in how heart disease and other chronic ailments will be treated.
The long-established dietary recommendations have created epidemics of obesity and diabetes, the consequences of which dwarf any historical plague in terms of mortality, human suffering and dire economic consequences.
Despite the fact that 25% of the population takes expensive statin medications and despite the fact we have reduced the fat content of our diets, more Americans will die this year of heart disease than ever before.
Statistics from the American Heart Association show that 75 million Americans currently suffer from heart disease, 20 million have diabetes and 57 million have pre-diabetes. These disorders are affecting younger and younger people in greater numbers every year.
Simply stated, without inflammation being present in the body, there is no way that cholesterol would accumulate in the wall of the blood vessel and cause heart disease and strokes. Without inflammation, cholesterol would move freely throughout the body as nature intended. It is inflammation that causes cholesterol to become trapped.
Inflammation is not complicated -- it is quite simply your body's natural defence to a foreign invader such as a bacteria, toxin or virus. The cycle of inflammation is perfect in how it protects your body from these bacterial and viral invaders. However, if we chronically expose the body to injury by toxins or foods the human body was never designed to process,a condition occurs called chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is just as harmful as acute inflammation is beneficial.
What thoughtful person would willfully expose himself repeatedly to foods or other substances that are known to cause injury to the body? Well,smokers perhaps, but at least they made that choice willfully.
The rest of us have simply followed the recommended mainstream dietthat is low in fat and high in polyunsaturated fats and carbohydrates, not knowing we were causing repeated injury to our blood vessels. Thisrepeated injury creates chronic inflammation leading to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity.
Let me repeat that: The injury and inflammation in our blood vessels is caused by the low fat diet recommended for years by mainstream medicine.
What are the biggest culprits of chronic inflammation? Quite simply, they are the overload of simple, highly processed carbohydrates (sugar, flour and all the products made from them) and the excess consumption of omega-6 vegetable oils like soybean, corn and sunflower that are found in many processed foods.
Take a moment to visualize rubbing a stiff brush repeatedly over soft skin until it becomes quite red and nearly bleeding. you kept this up several times a day, every day for five years. If you could tolerate this painful brushing, you would have a bleeding, swollen infected area that became worse with each repeated injury. This is a good way to visualize the inflammatory process that could be going on in your body right now.
Regardless of where the inflammatory process occurs, externally or internally, it is the same. I have peered inside thousands upon thousands of arteries. A diseased artery looks as if someone took a brush and scrubbed repeatedly against its wall. Several times a day, every day, the foods we eat create small injuries compounding into more injuries, causing the body to respond continuously and appropriately with inflammation.
While we savor the tantalizing taste of a sweet roll, our bodies respond alarmingly as if a foreign invader arrived declaring war. Foods loaded with sugars and simple carbohydrates, or processed withomega-6 oils for long shelf life have been the mainstay of the American diet for six decades. These foods have been slowly poisoning everyone.
How does eating a simple sweet roll create a cascade of inflammation to make you sick?
Imagine spilling syrup on your keyboard and you have a visual of what occurs inside the cell. When we consume simple carbohydrates such as sugar, blood sugar rises rapidly. In response, your pancreas secretes insulin whose primary purpose is to drive sugar into each cell where it is stored for energy. If the cell is full and does not need glucose, it is rejected to avoid extra sugar gumming up the works.
When your full cells reject the extra glucose, blood sugar rises producing more insulin and the glucose converts to stored fat.
What does all this have to do with inflammation? Blood sugar is controlled in a very narrow range. Extra sugar molecules attach to a variety of proteins that in turn injure the blood vessel wall. This repeated injury to the blood vessel wall sets off inflammation. When you spike your blood sugar level several times a day, every day, it is exactly like taking sandpaper to the inside of your delicate blood vessels.
While you may not be able to see it, rest assured it is there. I saw it in over 5,000 surgical patients spanning 25 years who all shared one common denominator -- inflammation in their arteries.
Let’s get back to the sweet roll. That innocent looking goody not only contains sugars, it is baked in one of many omega-6 oils such as soybean. Chips and fries are soaked in soybean oil; processed foods are manufactured with omega-6 oils for longer shelf life. While omega-6’s are essential -they are part of every cell membrane controlling what goes in and out of the cell -- they must be in the correct balance with omega-3’s.
If the balance shifts by consuming excessive omega-6, the cell membrane produces chemicals called cytokines that directly cause inflammation.
Today’s mainstream American diet has produced an extreme imbalance of these two fats. The ratio of imbalance ranges from 15:1 to as high as 30:1 in favor of omega-6. That’s a tremendous amount of cytokines causing inflammation. In today’s food environment, a 3:1 ratio would be optimal and healthy.
To make matters worse, the excess weight you are carrying from eating these foods creates overloaded fat cells that pour out large quantities of pro-inflammatory chemicals that add to the injury caused by having high blood sugar. The process that began with a sweet roll turns into a vicious cycle over time that creates heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and finally, Alzheimer’s disease, as the inflammatory process continues unabated.
There is no escaping the fact that the more we consume prepared and processed foods, the more we trip the inflammation switch little by little each day. The human body cannot process, nor was it designed to consume, foods packed with sugars and soaked in omega-6 oils.
There is but one answer to quieting inflammation, and that is returning to foods closer to their natural state. To build muscle, eat more protein. Choose carbohydrates that are very complex such as colorful fruits and vegetables. Cut down on or eliminate inflammation- causing omega-6 fats like corn and soybean oil and the processed foods that are made from them.
One tablespoon of corn oil contains 7,280 mg of omega-6; soybean contains 6,940 mg. Instead, use olive oil or butter from grass-fed beef.
Animal fats contain less than 20% omega-6 and are much less likely to cause inflammation than the supposedly healthy oils labelled polyunsaturated. Forget the “science” that has been drummed into your head for decades. The science that saturated fat alone causes heart disease is non-existent. The science that saturated fat raises blood cholesterol is also very weak. Since we now know that cholesterol is not the cause of heart disease, the concern about saturated fat is even more absurd today.
The cholesterol theory led to the no-fat, low-fat recommendations that in turn created the very foods now causing an epidemic of inflammation. Mainstream medicine made a terrible mistake when it advised people to avoid saturated fat in favor of foods high in omega-6 fats. We now have an epidemic of arterial inflammation leading to heart disease and other silent killers.
What you can do is choose whole foods your grandmother served and not those your mom turned to as grocery store aisles filled with manufactured foods. By eliminating inflammatory foods and adding essential nutrients from fresh unprocessed food, you will reverse years of damage in your arteries and throughout your body from consuming the typical American diet.
Dr. Dwight Lundell is the past Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery at Banner Heart Hospital , Mesa , AZ. His private practice, Cardiac Care Center was in Mesa, AZ. Recently Dr. Lundell left surgery to focus on the nutritional treatment of heart disease. He is the founder of Healthy Humans Foundation that promotes human health with a focus on helping large corporations promote wellness. He is also the author of The Cure for Heart Disease and The Great Cholesterol Lie.
We physicians with all our training, knowledge and authority often acquire a rather large ego that tends to make it difficult to admit we are wrong. So, here it is. I freely admit to being wrong.. As a heart surgeon with 25 years experience, having performed over 5,000 open-heart surgeries,today is my day to right the wrong with medical and scientific fact.
I trained for many years with other prominent physicians labelled “opinion makers.” Bombarded with scientific literature, continually attending education seminars, we opinion makers insisted heart disease resulted from the simple fact of elevated blood cholesterol.
The only accepted therapy was prescribing medications to lower cholesterol and a diet that severely restricted fat intake. The latter of course we insisted would lower cholesterol and heart disease. Deviations from these recommendations were considered heresy and could quite possibly result in malpractice.
It Is Not Working!
These recommendations are no longer scientifically or morally defensible. The discovery a few years ago that inflammation in the artery wall is the real cause of heart disease is slowly leading to a paradigm shift in how heart disease and other chronic ailments will be treated.
The long-established dietary recommendations have created epidemics of obesity and diabetes, the consequences of which dwarf any historical plague in terms of mortality, human suffering and dire economic consequences.
Despite the fact that 25% of the population takes expensive statin medications and despite the fact we have reduced the fat content of our diets, more Americans will die this year of heart disease than ever before.
Statistics from the American Heart Association show that 75 million Americans currently suffer from heart disease, 20 million have diabetes and 57 million have pre-diabetes. These disorders are affecting younger and younger people in greater numbers every year.
Simply stated, without inflammation being present in the body, there is no way that cholesterol would accumulate in the wall of the blood vessel and cause heart disease and strokes. Without inflammation, cholesterol would move freely throughout the body as nature intended. It is inflammation that causes cholesterol to become trapped.
Inflammation is not complicated -- it is quite simply your body's natural defence to a foreign invader such as a bacteria, toxin or virus. The cycle of inflammation is perfect in how it protects your body from these bacterial and viral invaders. However, if we chronically expose the body to injury by toxins or foods the human body was never designed to process,a condition occurs called chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is just as harmful as acute inflammation is beneficial.
What thoughtful person would willfully expose himself repeatedly to foods or other substances that are known to cause injury to the body? Well,smokers perhaps, but at least they made that choice willfully.
The rest of us have simply followed the recommended mainstream dietthat is low in fat and high in polyunsaturated fats and carbohydrates, not knowing we were causing repeated injury to our blood vessels. Thisrepeated injury creates chronic inflammation leading to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity.
Let me repeat that: The injury and inflammation in our blood vessels is caused by the low fat diet recommended for years by mainstream medicine.
What are the biggest culprits of chronic inflammation? Quite simply, they are the overload of simple, highly processed carbohydrates (sugar, flour and all the products made from them) and the excess consumption of omega-6 vegetable oils like soybean, corn and sunflower that are found in many processed foods.
Take a moment to visualize rubbing a stiff brush repeatedly over soft skin until it becomes quite red and nearly bleeding. you kept this up several times a day, every day for five years. If you could tolerate this painful brushing, you would have a bleeding, swollen infected area that became worse with each repeated injury. This is a good way to visualize the inflammatory process that could be going on in your body right now.
Regardless of where the inflammatory process occurs, externally or internally, it is the same. I have peered inside thousands upon thousands of arteries. A diseased artery looks as if someone took a brush and scrubbed repeatedly against its wall. Several times a day, every day, the foods we eat create small injuries compounding into more injuries, causing the body to respond continuously and appropriately with inflammation.
While we savor the tantalizing taste of a sweet roll, our bodies respond alarmingly as if a foreign invader arrived declaring war. Foods loaded with sugars and simple carbohydrates, or processed withomega-6 oils for long shelf life have been the mainstay of the American diet for six decades. These foods have been slowly poisoning everyone.
How does eating a simple sweet roll create a cascade of inflammation to make you sick?
Imagine spilling syrup on your keyboard and you have a visual of what occurs inside the cell. When we consume simple carbohydrates such as sugar, blood sugar rises rapidly. In response, your pancreas secretes insulin whose primary purpose is to drive sugar into each cell where it is stored for energy. If the cell is full and does not need glucose, it is rejected to avoid extra sugar gumming up the works.
When your full cells reject the extra glucose, blood sugar rises producing more insulin and the glucose converts to stored fat.
What does all this have to do with inflammation? Blood sugar is controlled in a very narrow range. Extra sugar molecules attach to a variety of proteins that in turn injure the blood vessel wall. This repeated injury to the blood vessel wall sets off inflammation. When you spike your blood sugar level several times a day, every day, it is exactly like taking sandpaper to the inside of your delicate blood vessels.
While you may not be able to see it, rest assured it is there. I saw it in over 5,000 surgical patients spanning 25 years who all shared one common denominator -- inflammation in their arteries.
Let’s get back to the sweet roll. That innocent looking goody not only contains sugars, it is baked in one of many omega-6 oils such as soybean. Chips and fries are soaked in soybean oil; processed foods are manufactured with omega-6 oils for longer shelf life. While omega-6’s are essential -they are part of every cell membrane controlling what goes in and out of the cell -- they must be in the correct balance with omega-3’s.
If the balance shifts by consuming excessive omega-6, the cell membrane produces chemicals called cytokines that directly cause inflammation.
Today’s mainstream American diet has produced an extreme imbalance of these two fats. The ratio of imbalance ranges from 15:1 to as high as 30:1 in favor of omega-6. That’s a tremendous amount of cytokines causing inflammation. In today’s food environment, a 3:1 ratio would be optimal and healthy.
To make matters worse, the excess weight you are carrying from eating these foods creates overloaded fat cells that pour out large quantities of pro-inflammatory chemicals that add to the injury caused by having high blood sugar. The process that began with a sweet roll turns into a vicious cycle over time that creates heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and finally, Alzheimer’s disease, as the inflammatory process continues unabated.
There is no escaping the fact that the more we consume prepared and processed foods, the more we trip the inflammation switch little by little each day. The human body cannot process, nor was it designed to consume, foods packed with sugars and soaked in omega-6 oils.
There is but one answer to quieting inflammation, and that is returning to foods closer to their natural state. To build muscle, eat more protein. Choose carbohydrates that are very complex such as colorful fruits and vegetables. Cut down on or eliminate inflammation- causing omega-6 fats like corn and soybean oil and the processed foods that are made from them.
One tablespoon of corn oil contains 7,280 mg of omega-6; soybean contains 6,940 mg. Instead, use olive oil or butter from grass-fed beef.
Animal fats contain less than 20% omega-6 and are much less likely to cause inflammation than the supposedly healthy oils labelled polyunsaturated. Forget the “science” that has been drummed into your head for decades. The science that saturated fat alone causes heart disease is non-existent. The science that saturated fat raises blood cholesterol is also very weak. Since we now know that cholesterol is not the cause of heart disease, the concern about saturated fat is even more absurd today.
The cholesterol theory led to the no-fat, low-fat recommendations that in turn created the very foods now causing an epidemic of inflammation. Mainstream medicine made a terrible mistake when it advised people to avoid saturated fat in favor of foods high in omega-6 fats. We now have an epidemic of arterial inflammation leading to heart disease and other silent killers.
What you can do is choose whole foods your grandmother served and not those your mom turned to as grocery store aisles filled with manufactured foods. By eliminating inflammatory foods and adding essential nutrients from fresh unprocessed food, you will reverse years of damage in your arteries and throughout your body from consuming the typical American diet.
Dr. Dwight Lundell is the past Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery at Banner Heart Hospital , Mesa , AZ. His private practice, Cardiac Care Center was in Mesa, AZ. Recently Dr. Lundell left surgery to focus on the nutritional treatment of heart disease. He is the founder of Healthy Humans Foundation that promotes human health with a focus on helping large corporations promote wellness. He is also the author of The Cure for Heart Disease and The Great Cholesterol Lie.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Pain Killers Are Actually Killing Patients.
More people die in America every year from prescription drug abuse than die from heroin and cocaine combined. That stunning finding comes in a new report Tuesday from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC found a fourfold increase in deaths from prescription narcotics over the past decade. Not surprisingly, it coincides with a fourfold increase in the number of prescriptions written for the powerful painkillers.
More and more kids are showing up in the emergency room after accidental poisoning from prescription drugs. One reason could be that children have a hard time telling the difference between medicine and candy. See how a 12-year-old proved this theory
In 2008, the most recent year for which there are statistics, there were 20,044 overdose deaths from prescription drugs. Of those, 14,800 were from narcotic painkillers.
“Prescription overdoses are epidemic in the U.S.”, says Dr. Thomas Frieden, director of the CDC. Most people who die from prescription drug overdose are taking someone else’s medicines, he says. “Medicines that were left in the medicine cabinet. Medicines that were given to a friend or a relative. Maybe innocently, maybe maliciously.”
Prescription narcotics are being handed out almost like candy by doctors – some of whom are genuinely interested in patient care – others who run so-called “pill mills”, where narcotic prescriptions are traded for cash to feed addictions. The CDC study found that enough narcotics are prescribed every year to medicate each and every adult in America every day for a month.
“It’s astonishing”, says Frieden. He adds that many addictions begin innocently, when patients are given narcotics for a minor injury that could be treated with less addictive medication. “When I went to medical school, we were incorrectly assured – don’t worry – if patients have short-term pain, they won’t get hooked. That was completely wrong, and a generation of doctors, patients and families have learned that’s a tragic mistake.”
Death and abuse rates vary widely across the country and don’t necessarily correlate. New Mexico has the highest death rate, followed by West Virginia, Nevada, Utah and Alaska. The highest abuse rate is in Oklahoma, followed by Oregon, Washington state, Rhode Island and Kentucky. The CDC report also found the highest death rates tend to be in either rural or impoverished counties.
The prescription drug epidemic has created a monumental law enforcement problem. The incoming Sheriff in Florida’s Pinellas County calls it “The most serious public safety issue we face.” Bob Gualtieri admits that despite intensive efforts at enforcement – targeting pill mills and users, they haven’t made a dent in the problem. And he says – unlike the crack cocaine epidemic of the 1990s, which was mostly an inner-city problem, prescription drug abuse is far more widespread. “This problem crosses all walks of life, crosses all socio-economic classes. Crosses all races and gender, national origin, age.”
In fact, the CDC report found the death rate among non-Hispanic whites and American Indians/Alaska Natives was three times higher than among Blacks and Hispanic whites.
Many states have passed new laws to monitor the prescribing of narcotic painkillers. Dr. Frieden says some laws have made a difference. Washington state, for example, has lowered its death rate, though it remains high.
Despite modest inroads, CDC researchers say the epidemic of prescription narcotic overdoses has continued to worsen. In today’s report, they caution doctors to only use narcotic painkillers in patients who are carefully screened and monitored, and for whom non-narcotic medications are insufficient.
That recommendation may help to reduce the number of new patients who inadvertently get hooked. The intentional abuse of prescription drugs among people who may prefer them to illicit substances like cocaine and heroin is another problem altogether, and one experts say can only be attacked through education and law enforcement.
For more information, or for the complete article, go to http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/11/01/prescription-drug-deaths-skyrocket/
The CDC found a fourfold increase in deaths from prescription narcotics over the past decade. Not surprisingly, it coincides with a fourfold increase in the number of prescriptions written for the powerful painkillers.
More and more kids are showing up in the emergency room after accidental poisoning from prescription drugs. One reason could be that children have a hard time telling the difference between medicine and candy. See how a 12-year-old proved this theory
In 2008, the most recent year for which there are statistics, there were 20,044 overdose deaths from prescription drugs. Of those, 14,800 were from narcotic painkillers.
“Prescription overdoses are epidemic in the U.S.”, says Dr. Thomas Frieden, director of the CDC. Most people who die from prescription drug overdose are taking someone else’s medicines, he says. “Medicines that were left in the medicine cabinet. Medicines that were given to a friend or a relative. Maybe innocently, maybe maliciously.”
Prescription narcotics are being handed out almost like candy by doctors – some of whom are genuinely interested in patient care – others who run so-called “pill mills”, where narcotic prescriptions are traded for cash to feed addictions. The CDC study found that enough narcotics are prescribed every year to medicate each and every adult in America every day for a month.
“It’s astonishing”, says Frieden. He adds that many addictions begin innocently, when patients are given narcotics for a minor injury that could be treated with less addictive medication. “When I went to medical school, we were incorrectly assured – don’t worry – if patients have short-term pain, they won’t get hooked. That was completely wrong, and a generation of doctors, patients and families have learned that’s a tragic mistake.”
Death and abuse rates vary widely across the country and don’t necessarily correlate. New Mexico has the highest death rate, followed by West Virginia, Nevada, Utah and Alaska. The highest abuse rate is in Oklahoma, followed by Oregon, Washington state, Rhode Island and Kentucky. The CDC report also found the highest death rates tend to be in either rural or impoverished counties.
The prescription drug epidemic has created a monumental law enforcement problem. The incoming Sheriff in Florida’s Pinellas County calls it “The most serious public safety issue we face.” Bob Gualtieri admits that despite intensive efforts at enforcement – targeting pill mills and users, they haven’t made a dent in the problem. And he says – unlike the crack cocaine epidemic of the 1990s, which was mostly an inner-city problem, prescription drug abuse is far more widespread. “This problem crosses all walks of life, crosses all socio-economic classes. Crosses all races and gender, national origin, age.”
In fact, the CDC report found the death rate among non-Hispanic whites and American Indians/Alaska Natives was three times higher than among Blacks and Hispanic whites.
Many states have passed new laws to monitor the prescribing of narcotic painkillers. Dr. Frieden says some laws have made a difference. Washington state, for example, has lowered its death rate, though it remains high.
Despite modest inroads, CDC researchers say the epidemic of prescription narcotic overdoses has continued to worsen. In today’s report, they caution doctors to only use narcotic painkillers in patients who are carefully screened and monitored, and for whom non-narcotic medications are insufficient.
That recommendation may help to reduce the number of new patients who inadvertently get hooked. The intentional abuse of prescription drugs among people who may prefer them to illicit substances like cocaine and heroin is another problem altogether, and one experts say can only be attacked through education and law enforcement.
For more information, or for the complete article, go to http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/11/01/prescription-drug-deaths-skyrocket/
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Questions Answered
Below are three questions that patients and others have recently asked. I felt that you may benefit from this information. Enjoy!
Question: Are probiotics different than digestive enzymes? – submitted by Jane Carlson.
Answer: Yes, probiotics and digestive enzymes are different, but they both aid and support healthy digestion. Probiotics are ‘live’ supplemental microorganisms (healthy bacteria) that support the native ‘flora’ in the digestive tract. Digestive enzymes, on the other hand, help to catalyze and breakdown sugars, fats, and proteins to make them more readily absorbable into the bloodstream. – Dr. Gordon
Question: My husband has been suffering with a herniated disc in his lower back for 3 years since he had a lifting injury at work. After speaking with multiple specialists, they tell him that the only thing that they can do is surgery. Are there any other options for him? – submitted by M. Ferring
Answer: Mrs. Ferring, I’m sorry to hear about the suffering that your husband has endured over the past 3 years due to his back injury. Your question is a very common question that I am asked at least 2-3x per week. Without seeing your husband’s MRI and examining him, I can only speak in generalities regarding herniated discs in the lumbar spine. From my experience, I have found that most treatments for herniated discs are focused on treating the symptoms (pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxers, epidural injections, etc…). Unfortunately, to treat the underlying cause of most disc injuries, the treatment options are rather limited. Spinal surgery is definitely one option, and there are multiple types of surgeries depending on the specific disc injury. In my practice, I incorporate the DRX 9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System to treat disc bulges, protrusions, and herniations. This is a non-surgical alternative treatment for disc injuries which helps to reduce the size and severity of disc herniations, as well as rehydrating the disc so that it can withstand the daily stresses and strains that it must endure. An MRI or CT scan is required to determine if a patient is a good candidate for the DRX 9000, and to rule out contraindications to treatment. – Dr. Gordon
Question: I was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis after having a bone density scan performed on my lower back and hip. My doctor has prescribed Fosamax to improve my bone density. Do I need to keep taking calcium, and if so what kind is best? – submitted by Ruth Parsons
Answer: To answer your question succinctly, yes you need to continue taking calcium. Studies have shown that bone density is optimized in those patients taking Fosamax when they also take adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D. As far as which form of calcium is best, I personally recommend that my patients use calcium citrate, calcium lactate/malate, or calcium MCHC. I also highly recommend taking calcium in a ‘capsule’ rather than a tablet. Many patients not only have difficulty swallowing the large tablets, but also digesting and assimilating the nutrients from the tablets. Remember, calcium requires sufficient amounts of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach to be absorbed and assimilated. Those people who take Tums® with calcium are neutralizing their HCl and thus inhibiting proper absorption. Recommended calcium dosage is 1,000mg – 1,500mg per day depending on the individual needs of the patient. Vitamin D is also important for calcium absorption and metabolism, helping to regulate bone mineralization and blood calcium concentration. There is currently a debate as to the proper supplementation dosage for Vitamin D, as prior recommended dosages have now been found to inadequate. I personally recommend 2,500 – 5,000 I.U. per day to my patients depending on their needs and their blood levels. I recommend testing both calcium and Vitamin D blood levels prior to beginning any supplementation, and I recheck blood levels of these nutrients 6-8 weeks later. – Dr. Gordon
Question: Are probiotics different than digestive enzymes? – submitted by Jane Carlson.
Answer: Yes, probiotics and digestive enzymes are different, but they both aid and support healthy digestion. Probiotics are ‘live’ supplemental microorganisms (healthy bacteria) that support the native ‘flora’ in the digestive tract. Digestive enzymes, on the other hand, help to catalyze and breakdown sugars, fats, and proteins to make them more readily absorbable into the bloodstream. – Dr. Gordon
Question: My husband has been suffering with a herniated disc in his lower back for 3 years since he had a lifting injury at work. After speaking with multiple specialists, they tell him that the only thing that they can do is surgery. Are there any other options for him? – submitted by M. Ferring
Answer: Mrs. Ferring, I’m sorry to hear about the suffering that your husband has endured over the past 3 years due to his back injury. Your question is a very common question that I am asked at least 2-3x per week. Without seeing your husband’s MRI and examining him, I can only speak in generalities regarding herniated discs in the lumbar spine. From my experience, I have found that most treatments for herniated discs are focused on treating the symptoms (pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxers, epidural injections, etc…). Unfortunately, to treat the underlying cause of most disc injuries, the treatment options are rather limited. Spinal surgery is definitely one option, and there are multiple types of surgeries depending on the specific disc injury. In my practice, I incorporate the DRX 9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System to treat disc bulges, protrusions, and herniations. This is a non-surgical alternative treatment for disc injuries which helps to reduce the size and severity of disc herniations, as well as rehydrating the disc so that it can withstand the daily stresses and strains that it must endure. An MRI or CT scan is required to determine if a patient is a good candidate for the DRX 9000, and to rule out contraindications to treatment. – Dr. Gordon
Question: I was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis after having a bone density scan performed on my lower back and hip. My doctor has prescribed Fosamax to improve my bone density. Do I need to keep taking calcium, and if so what kind is best? – submitted by Ruth Parsons
Answer: To answer your question succinctly, yes you need to continue taking calcium. Studies have shown that bone density is optimized in those patients taking Fosamax when they also take adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D. As far as which form of calcium is best, I personally recommend that my patients use calcium citrate, calcium lactate/malate, or calcium MCHC. I also highly recommend taking calcium in a ‘capsule’ rather than a tablet. Many patients not only have difficulty swallowing the large tablets, but also digesting and assimilating the nutrients from the tablets. Remember, calcium requires sufficient amounts of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach to be absorbed and assimilated. Those people who take Tums® with calcium are neutralizing their HCl and thus inhibiting proper absorption. Recommended calcium dosage is 1,000mg – 1,500mg per day depending on the individual needs of the patient. Vitamin D is also important for calcium absorption and metabolism, helping to regulate bone mineralization and blood calcium concentration. There is currently a debate as to the proper supplementation dosage for Vitamin D, as prior recommended dosages have now been found to inadequate. I personally recommend 2,500 – 5,000 I.U. per day to my patients depending on their needs and their blood levels. I recommend testing both calcium and Vitamin D blood levels prior to beginning any supplementation, and I recheck blood levels of these nutrients 6-8 weeks later. – Dr. Gordon
Monday, June 27, 2011
Danger of NSAIDS
Many visionary health care providers warned about it. Most laughed it off. Now, the research is really piling up and the evidence is getting too strong to ignore.
Back in July 1998, The American Journal of Medicine reported, "Conservative calculations estimate that approximately 107,000 patients are hospitalized annually for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related gastrointestinal (GI) complications and at least 16,500 NSAID-related deaths occur each year among arthritis patients alone. The figures of all NSAID users would be overwhelming, yet the scope of this problem is generally under-appreciated."
From the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine: “If deaths from gastrointestinal toxic effects from NSAIDs were tabulated separately in the National Vital Statistics reports, these effects would constitute the 15th most common cause of death in the United States. Yet these toxic effects remain mainly a 'silent epidemic,' with many physicians and most patients unaware of the magnitude of the problem.
Furthermore, the mortality statistics do not include deaths ascribed to the use of over-the-counter NSAIDS."
A New Study Warns
Heart Patients About NSAIDs
According to the Elsevier Global Medical News, “For patients with a history of myocardial infarction, any length of treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs poses an unacceptably high risk for death or recurrent heart attacks, based on findings from a Danish study using hospital and pharmacy registry data and published online May 9, 2011 in the journal Circulation.
The risk elevation began during the first week of therapy and continued throughout the course of treatment, with some differences in the magnitude of risk between NSAIDs.”
The authors stressed the results of the study are not in line with the American Heart Association recommendations regarding NSAID treatment in patients with established cardiovascular disease “because we demonstrate that even short-term NSAID treatment is associated with increased cardiovascular risk in patients with prior MI,”
The article also stated, “Despite some limitations of the study, namely the observational design and the possible effects of information bias, and the need for randomized clinical studies... The accumulating evidence suggests that we must limit NSAID use to the absolute minimum in patients with established cardiovascular disease.”
You Are Probably Taking NSAIDs
And Do Not Even Know It
Estimates say that over 30 billion over the counter tablets and 70 million prescriptions are sold annually in the United States alone.
NSAIDs include Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, and Motrin as well as prescription products like Celebrex, Daypro and more.
Is There A Better Pain Solution?
One of the principles of medicine is, “first do no harm.” In other words, make sure the treatment is not worse than the original problem.
That’s why, if at all possible, conservative natural options should always be looked into before more invasive and chemical treatments are used.
Chiropractic care has been helping patients relieve pain naturally, without the deadly side effects of NSAIDs since 1895.
As research and proof piles up – and so do the deaths - Chiropractic care becomes the intelligent, obvious alternative choice. In addition, natural anti-inflammatory products such as omega 3 fish oils and turmeric have potent anti-inflammatory effects and are a great alternative to NSAIDS. (see this month’s insert in the newsletter for 15% off special on our anti-inflammatory supplements Orthomega & Inflammablox.)
Back in July 1998, The American Journal of Medicine reported, "Conservative calculations estimate that approximately 107,000 patients are hospitalized annually for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related gastrointestinal (GI) complications and at least 16,500 NSAID-related deaths occur each year among arthritis patients alone. The figures of all NSAID users would be overwhelming, yet the scope of this problem is generally under-appreciated."
From the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine: “If deaths from gastrointestinal toxic effects from NSAIDs were tabulated separately in the National Vital Statistics reports, these effects would constitute the 15th most common cause of death in the United States. Yet these toxic effects remain mainly a 'silent epidemic,' with many physicians and most patients unaware of the magnitude of the problem.
Furthermore, the mortality statistics do not include deaths ascribed to the use of over-the-counter NSAIDS."
A New Study Warns
Heart Patients About NSAIDs
According to the Elsevier Global Medical News, “For patients with a history of myocardial infarction, any length of treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs poses an unacceptably high risk for death or recurrent heart attacks, based on findings from a Danish study using hospital and pharmacy registry data and published online May 9, 2011 in the journal Circulation.
The risk elevation began during the first week of therapy and continued throughout the course of treatment, with some differences in the magnitude of risk between NSAIDs.”
The authors stressed the results of the study are not in line with the American Heart Association recommendations regarding NSAID treatment in patients with established cardiovascular disease “because we demonstrate that even short-term NSAID treatment is associated with increased cardiovascular risk in patients with prior MI,”
The article also stated, “Despite some limitations of the study, namely the observational design and the possible effects of information bias, and the need for randomized clinical studies... The accumulating evidence suggests that we must limit NSAID use to the absolute minimum in patients with established cardiovascular disease.”
You Are Probably Taking NSAIDs
And Do Not Even Know It
Estimates say that over 30 billion over the counter tablets and 70 million prescriptions are sold annually in the United States alone.
NSAIDs include Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, and Motrin as well as prescription products like Celebrex, Daypro and more.
Is There A Better Pain Solution?
One of the principles of medicine is, “first do no harm.” In other words, make sure the treatment is not worse than the original problem.
That’s why, if at all possible, conservative natural options should always be looked into before more invasive and chemical treatments are used.
Chiropractic care has been helping patients relieve pain naturally, without the deadly side effects of NSAIDs since 1895.
As research and proof piles up – and so do the deaths - Chiropractic care becomes the intelligent, obvious alternative choice. In addition, natural anti-inflammatory products such as omega 3 fish oils and turmeric have potent anti-inflammatory effects and are a great alternative to NSAIDS. (see this month’s insert in the newsletter for 15% off special on our anti-inflammatory supplements Orthomega & Inflammablox.)
Monday, May 23, 2011
New Vitamin D Study
Vitamin D deficiency study: the latest research from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey shows that from 2001-2004, an alarming 77% of Americans were found to be deficient in vitamin D. This is leading the Institute of Medicine to reassess the RDA for vitamin D.
More vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is now shown to be related to increased risk for nervous system disorders, diabetes, allergies, cancer, and heart disease. If you haven't had your vitamin D levels checked, it's quick and easy. Call our office at 734-9995 and schedule a vitamin D blood test for only $60.00. It's some of the best preventative medicine that you can do for yourself and your family.
More vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is now shown to be related to increased risk for nervous system disorders, diabetes, allergies, cancer, and heart disease. If you haven't had your vitamin D levels checked, it's quick and easy. Call our office at 734-9995 and schedule a vitamin D blood test for only $60.00. It's some of the best preventative medicine that you can do for yourself and your family.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Anti-Ulcer Medications Found to Increase Hip and Spine Fractures
U.S. health regulators said that patients taking prescription ulcer drugs at high doses or for longer periods may have increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist and spine.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it was revising the prescription and over-the-counter labels for the drugs to include new safety information about the possible increased risk of fractures.
The increased fractures are due to the decreased acid in the stomach which inhibits assimilation and absorption of certain minerals, especially calcium and iron. That's why 'Tums with Calcium' is quite ironic. The antacid neutralizes hydrochloric acid, which in turn inhibits calcium absorption. Quite the marketing ploy.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it was revising the prescription and over-the-counter labels for the drugs to include new safety information about the possible increased risk of fractures.
The increased fractures are due to the decreased acid in the stomach which inhibits assimilation and absorption of certain minerals, especially calcium and iron. That's why 'Tums with Calcium' is quite ironic. The antacid neutralizes hydrochloric acid, which in turn inhibits calcium absorption. Quite the marketing ploy.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Florida Chiropractic Foundation Fundraiser
The Florida Chiropractic Foundation funds several scholarships per year for chiropractic students at the two chiropractic schools in the State of Florida. The Foundation also contributes money for research in the fields of chiropractic and biomechanics at the University of South Florida. To increase fund-raising, the Foundation has established a raffle with a grand prize of a 2011 Cadillac SRX. Tickets are $100 per raffle ticket, and there are early bird drawing with the winner taking home $1,000.00 per ticket. Contact our office at 734-9995 if you are interested in a raffle ticket(s), or go to www.floridachiropracticfoundation.org/
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Chiropractic Society Partners With USA Cares To Raise Money For Post 9/11 Military And Their Families
The Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society is pleased to announce its new partnership with USA Cares, which delivers crucial financial assistance to combat veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). By removing the financial barriers to medical treatment, USA Cares helps the "invisibly" wounded gain access to treatment, ensuring that the financial burden does not fall on their spouses or their children.
Dr. Jeremy Gordon, director of the Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society (FVCS) and board member of the Florida Chiropractic Association, knows how difficult TBI can be. "TBI and PTSD are some of the loneliest conditions that effect our post 9/11 veterans," says Dr. Gordon. "The outside world doesn't see any evidence of damage, but inside, it can be extremely debilitating. We hope to help these individuals, and their families, however we can."
Dr. Gordon announced his intention to "give back" to USA Cares' military and their families by organizing an area-wide fundraiser, involving over 20 chiropractic offices throughout Volusia and Flagler counties, and several key sponsors including: Crystal Springs Water and Florida Health Care News. "If this goes well, I hope to have a state-wide fundraiser for USA Cares in 2011, involving many of the 4,600 members of the Florida Chiropractic Association". The idea is simple, patients can round up their bill to the next dollar or bring in excess change, and donate to USA Cares. Each office has the capability to accept donations, either in person or on line.
Bill Nelson, the Executive Director of USA Cares said: "It humbles me that so many people care so much about our Military and their Families. There is a saying in the Military that 'all gave some, and some gave all'. Dr. Gordon is providing a means for everyone to get behind our Military and show their support".
USA Cares programs include Housing Assistance, which helps stop foreclosures and evictions - Basic Needs, which focuses on quality of life areas including food, utilities and car repair - and Warrior Treatment Today, which provides access to treatment for the "unseen" wounds of PTSD and TBI. Their newest program area, Jobs for Vets, connects veterans to employment opportunities and clears the financial roadblocks that can stand in the way of job success.
Dr. Jeremy Gordon, director of the Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society (FVCS) and board member of the Florida Chiropractic Association, knows how difficult TBI can be. "TBI and PTSD are some of the loneliest conditions that effect our post 9/11 veterans," says Dr. Gordon. "The outside world doesn't see any evidence of damage, but inside, it can be extremely debilitating. We hope to help these individuals, and their families, however we can."
Dr. Gordon announced his intention to "give back" to USA Cares' military and their families by organizing an area-wide fundraiser, involving over 20 chiropractic offices throughout Volusia and Flagler counties, and several key sponsors including: Crystal Springs Water and Florida Health Care News. "If this goes well, I hope to have a state-wide fundraiser for USA Cares in 2011, involving many of the 4,600 members of the Florida Chiropractic Association". The idea is simple, patients can round up their bill to the next dollar or bring in excess change, and donate to USA Cares. Each office has the capability to accept donations, either in person or on line.
Bill Nelson, the Executive Director of USA Cares said: "It humbles me that so many people care so much about our Military and their Families. There is a saying in the Military that 'all gave some, and some gave all'. Dr. Gordon is providing a means for everyone to get behind our Military and show their support".
USA Cares programs include Housing Assistance, which helps stop foreclosures and evictions - Basic Needs, which focuses on quality of life areas including food, utilities and car repair - and Warrior Treatment Today, which provides access to treatment for the "unseen" wounds of PTSD and TBI. Their newest program area, Jobs for Vets, connects veterans to employment opportunities and clears the financial roadblocks that can stand in the way of job success.
Local Chiropractors Join Effort To Help Veterans
The Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society has joined a new partnership with USA Cares, which delivers crucial financial assistance to combat veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. By removing the financial barriers to medical treatment, USA Cares helps the "invisibly" wounded gain access to treatment, ensuring that the financial burden does not fall on their spouses or their children.
Dr. Jeremy Gordon, director of the Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society and board member of the Florida Chiropractic Association, announced his intention to "give back" to USA Cares military and their families by organizing an area-wide fundraiser, involving more than 20 chiropractic offices throughout Volusia and Flagler counties, and several key sponsors including Crystal Springs Water and Florida Health Care News.
"If this goes well, I hope to have a state-wide fundraiser for USA Cares in 2011, involving many of the 4,600 members of the Florida Chiropractic Association," he said.
The idea is simple, patients can round up their bill to the next dollar or bring in excess change, and donate to USA Cares. Each office has the capability to accept donations, either in person or online.
USA Cares programs include housing assistance, which helps stop foreclosures and evictions ; basic needs, which focuses on quality of life areas including food, utilities and car repair; and Warrior Treatment Today, which provides access to treatment for the "unseen" wounds of PTSD and TBI. Their newest program area, Jobs for Vets, connects veterans to employment opportunities and clears the financial roadblocks that can stand in the way of job success.
The Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society is composed of chiropractic physicians throughout Flagler and Volusia counties in central Florida. The FVCS coordinates charity fundraisers for the local community and provides education to the public about the chiropractic profession. The Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society is affiliated with the Florida Chiropractic Association, which has more than 4,600 members and represents more than 80 percent of the chiropractic profession in the State of Florida. For more information about FVCS, contact Dr. Jeremy Gordon at jgordodc@yahoo.com or call 386-734-9995.
In Florida, Military families anywhere in America can apply for assistance through the USA Cares website, USAcares.org or by calling 800-773-0387.
Dr. Jeremy Gordon, director of the Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society and board member of the Florida Chiropractic Association, announced his intention to "give back" to USA Cares military and their families by organizing an area-wide fundraiser, involving more than 20 chiropractic offices throughout Volusia and Flagler counties, and several key sponsors including Crystal Springs Water and Florida Health Care News.
"If this goes well, I hope to have a state-wide fundraiser for USA Cares in 2011, involving many of the 4,600 members of the Florida Chiropractic Association," he said.
The idea is simple, patients can round up their bill to the next dollar or bring in excess change, and donate to USA Cares. Each office has the capability to accept donations, either in person or online.
USA Cares programs include housing assistance, which helps stop foreclosures and evictions ; basic needs, which focuses on quality of life areas including food, utilities and car repair; and Warrior Treatment Today, which provides access to treatment for the "unseen" wounds of PTSD and TBI. Their newest program area, Jobs for Vets, connects veterans to employment opportunities and clears the financial roadblocks that can stand in the way of job success.
The Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society is composed of chiropractic physicians throughout Flagler and Volusia counties in central Florida. The FVCS coordinates charity fundraisers for the local community and provides education to the public about the chiropractic profession. The Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society is affiliated with the Florida Chiropractic Association, which has more than 4,600 members and represents more than 80 percent of the chiropractic profession in the State of Florida. For more information about FVCS, contact Dr. Jeremy Gordon at jgordodc@yahoo.com or call 386-734-9995.
In Florida, Military families anywhere in America can apply for assistance through the USA Cares website, USAcares.org or by calling 800-773-0387.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Veteran's Day Fundraiser
On this Veteran's Day, please join our Flagler Volusia Chiropractic Society in raising money for those military personnel and their families in need. I have organized a fundraiser in conjunction with USA Cares (www.USAcares.org) and Crystal Springs water to raise money for our local veterans and their families throughout this holiday season. Collection 'jugs' will be placed at approximately 30 chiropractic offices throughout Flagler and Volusia counties, and we are encouraging patients, friends, and neighbors to stop buy and contribute change, dollars, or whatever they can afford, to this worthy cause. Collection centers are already in place at my office (905 N. Stone Street - DeLand), and at Dr. Jim Antos' office on Health Blvd. in Daytona Beach. Please stop by and contribute what you can, and pass this message along to your friends and familiy members. For all that our veterans and their families have sacrificed for this country, it's the least that we can do.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Fish Oil Preventing Breast Cancer?
Fish oil and a variety of dietary supplements used to ameliorate the symptoms of menopause were evaluated in a recent study to determine their possible association with breast cancer risk. In the study, researchers investigated the relationship between the consumption of fish oil, and menopausal supplements (black cohosh, dong quai, soy, and St. John's Wort), and the risk of developing breast cancer. The subjects were followed for up to 7 years to evaluate the incidence of breast cancer.
The results showed that the subjects' current use of fish oil was associated with a 32% reduction in the risk of developing ductal breast cancer, particularly those taking it for over 10 years. The use of the menopausal supplements did not affect breast cancer risk.
The results showed that the subjects' current use of fish oil was associated with a 32% reduction in the risk of developing ductal breast cancer, particularly those taking it for over 10 years. The use of the menopausal supplements did not affect breast cancer risk.
Friday, July 30, 2010
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome or, CTS, is a condition where a nerve (called the median nerve) is compressed in a relatively tight or restricted space (called the carpal tunnel), resulting in altered nerve function that includes numbness and weakness. In order to fully understand what CTS is, let’s devote this Health Update to better understanding the anatomy of the carpal tunnel.
The carpal tunnel is made up from 8 bones (2 rows of 4 carpal bones that are stacked on top of each other) that are arranged in the shape of a horse shoe. The “roof” of the tunnel is a ligament (transverse carpal ligament) that stretches tightly across the two ends of the horseshoe completing the formation of a tunnel – actually, an upside down tunnel when looking at the palm side of the wrist). The contents of the tunnel include 9 tendons and their covering (sheath), blood vessels and on top of all that just under the roof is the median nerve – the culprit that creates most of the symptoms of CTS. The cause of CTS is simply anything that causes the contents inside the tunnel to swell or become inflamed, which then compresses the median nerve up into the roof or ligament, pinching the nerve. This can create pain, numbness, tingling, the falling asleep sensation and weakness. It’s important to point out that the median nerve starts out from the neck, passes through the shoulder, past the elbow, through the wrist’s carpal tunnel and ends in the hand – specifically fingers 1, 2, 3, and part of the 4th finger. Therefore, the ENTIRE nerve must be looked at for all CTS cases as pinching can occur anywhere along its course from the neck to the hand.
The carpal tunnel is made up from 8 bones (2 rows of 4 carpal bones that are stacked on top of each other) that are arranged in the shape of a horse shoe. The “roof” of the tunnel is a ligament (transverse carpal ligament) that stretches tightly across the two ends of the horseshoe completing the formation of a tunnel – actually, an upside down tunnel when looking at the palm side of the wrist). The contents of the tunnel include 9 tendons and their covering (sheath), blood vessels and on top of all that just under the roof is the median nerve – the culprit that creates most of the symptoms of CTS. The cause of CTS is simply anything that causes the contents inside the tunnel to swell or become inflamed, which then compresses the median nerve up into the roof or ligament, pinching the nerve. This can create pain, numbness, tingling, the falling asleep sensation and weakness. It’s important to point out that the median nerve starts out from the neck, passes through the shoulder, past the elbow, through the wrist’s carpal tunnel and ends in the hand – specifically fingers 1, 2, 3, and part of the 4th finger. Therefore, the ENTIRE nerve must be looked at for all CTS cases as pinching can occur anywhere along its course from the neck to the hand.
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