For low-back pain patients and their doctors, the American Pain Society, www.ampainsoc.org, said today it is expanding its evidence-based, clinical practice guideline on diagnosis and treatment of chronic low back pain to include recommendations on surgery and other interventional treatments. The expanded guideline was previewed today in a symposium at the APS Annual Scientific Meeting.
The second part of the APS guideline is based on a multidisciplinary panel’s review and analysis of volumes of evidence related to diagnosis and treatment of low-back pain with a number of interventional procedures and surgeries, according to Roger Chou, MD, director of the American Pain Society’s Clinical Practice Guideline Program and associate professor of internal medicine, Oregon Health & Science University.
Chou noted that in addition to the multidisciplinary panel that formulated the guideline for evaluation and management of low back pain in primary care settings, additional experts with expertise on interventional therapies and surgeries for low back pain were recruited to review the evidence and formulate the expanded recommendations.
"Prior to finalizing the guideline, APS conducts extensive peer review, and has sent the guideline to more than 20 experts in surgery, interventional pain medicine, primary care, and other disciplines for comments and feedback," Chou said.
Low-back pain is the fifth most common reason for doctor’s office visits and one in four adults report having it last a least a day. Annually, low-back pain is estimated to account for more than $26 billion in direct health care costs in the U.S.
“The evidence is much better than even five or 10 years ago and both the primary care and interventional recommendations will help physicians be more confident when evaluating possible therapies for low back pain,” said Chou. “As always, physicians and patients should discuss possible options proven by the evidence and choose the ones that make sense for their situation," he added.
During the symposium, Chou and two panel co-chairs, Richard Rosenquist, MD, assistant professor of anesthesiology, University of Iowa, and John Loeser, MD, professor, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, reported that for many interventional procedures the evidence from randomized controlled trials is mixed, sparse, not available or showed no benefits. Accordingly, the expanded, evidence-based APS guideline will report:
* Invasive diagnostics, such as provocative discography, facet joint block and sacroliliac joint block tests, have not been proven to be accurate for diagnosing various spinal conditions, and their ability to effectively guide therapeutic choices and improve ultimate patient outcomes is uncertain.
* Epidural stenois injections are an option for short-term pain relief for persistent radiculopathy (radiating low back pain caused by a herniated disc). Other interventional therapies, such as local injections, prolotherapy, botulinum toxin (botox) injection, facet joint injection, sacroliliac joint injection, radiofrequency denervation and intradiscal electrothermal therapy are not supported by convincing, consistent evidence of benefits from randomized trials.
* Surgery to treat radiculopathy and spinal stenosis is effective, though the benefits diminish over time.
* Effectiveness of surgery for non-radicular low back pain is less certain, with some studies showing no benefits compared to intensive interdisciplinary rehabilitation. In addition, a significant proportion of patients experience suboptimal outcomes including persistent pain or functional deficits following surgery.
The expert panel reaffirms its previous recommendation that all low-back pain patients stay active and talk honestly with their physicians about self care and other interventions. “In general, non-invasive therapies supported by evidence showing benefits should be tried before considering interventional therapies or surgery,” said Chou.
Recommendations from the first APS Clinical Practice Guideline on Low Back Pain were intended for primary care physicians and appeared in the Oct, 2, 2007 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine. For diagnosis, the first APS low-back pain guideline advises clinicians to minimize routine use of x-rays or other diagnostic tests except for patients known or believed to have underlying neurological or spinal disorders.
In addressing treatment options, it recommended that medications used should be appropriate for the severity of baseline pain and functional impairment, and clinicians should weigh carefully potential benefits and risks of any drug and explain them. Also for various non-pharmacological treatments supported by the evidence, from spinal manipulation to massage therapy, the first guideline panel recommended they be considered for patients who do not improve with self-care options and prefer not to take pain medications.
About the American Pain Society
Based in Glenview, Ill., the American Pain Society (APS) is a multidisciplinary community that brings together a diverse group of scientists, clinicians and other professionals to increase the knowledge of pain and transform public policy and clinical practice to reduce pain-related suffering.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Neck pain study sheds light on best care
A seven-year, international study published today finds that some alternative therapies such as acupuncture, neck manipulation and massage are better choices for managing most common neck pain than many current practices. Also included in the short-list of best options for relief are exercises, education, neck mobilization, low level laser therapy and pain relievers.
Therapies such as neck collars and ultrasound are not recommended. The study found that corticosteroid injections and surgery should only be considered if there is associated pain, weakness or numbness in the arm, fracture or serious disease.
The Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and Its Associated Disorders 236 page review of the current research on neck pain is published in the journal Spine. The multi-national and inter-disciplinary study team included Canadian, American, South American, Australasian and European researchers. The Task Force was created to help neck pain sufferers and health professionals use the best research evidence to prevent, diagnose and manage neck pain.
"Neck pain is not a trivial condition for many people," says Task Force president Dr. Scott Haldeman, clinical professor, department of neurology at the University of California, Irvine; and adjunct professor, department of epidemiology University of California Los Angeles. "It can be associated with headaches, arm and upper back pain and depression. Whether it arises from sports injuries, car collisions, workplace issues or stress, it can be incapacitating. Understanding the best way to diagnose and manage this problem is of high importance for those who are suffering and for those who manage and pay for its care."
The study found that neck pain is a widespread experience that is a persistent and recurrent condition for the majority of sufferers. It is disabling for approximately two out of every 20 people who experience neck pain and affects their ability to carry on with daily activities says the Task Force.
A key recommendation of the Task Force is that neck pain, including whiplash-related pain, be classified and treated in a common system of 4 grades:
Grade 1: neck pain with little or no interference with daily activities
Grade 2: neck pain that limits daily activities
Grade 3: neck pain accompanied by radiculopathy ("pinched nerve" -- pain weakness and/or numbness in the arm)
Grade 4: neck pain with serious pathology, such as tumor, fracture, infection, or systemic disease.
"The majority of neck pain falls into Grades 1 or 2," says Task Force member, Dr. Linda Carroll, Associate Professor, School of Public Health at the University of Alberta, and Associated Scientist, Alberta Centre for Injury Control and Research (ACICR). "Many sufferers manage to carry on with their daily activities. Others find their pain interferes with their ability to carry out daily chores, participate in favorite activities or be effective at work. For these people, the evidence shows there are a relatively small number of therapies that provide some relief for a while, but there is no one best option for everyone."
In addition to its comprehensive review of the existing body of research on neck pain, the Task Force also initiated a new study into the association between chiropractic care of the neck and stroke. This innovative piece of research found that patients who visit a chiropractor are no more likely to experience a stroke than are patients who visit their family physician. The study concludes that this type of stroke commonly begins with neck pain and/or headache which causes the patient to seek care from their chiropractor or family physician before the stroke fully develops.
"This type of stroke is extremely rare and has been known to occur spontaneously or after ordinary neck movements such as looking up at the sky or shoulder-checking when backing up a car," noted the study's lead author, Dr. David Cassidy, professor of epidemiology at the University of Toronto and senior scientist at the University Health Network at Toronto Western Hospital.
For the minority of neck pain sufferers who experience Grade 3 neck pain -- that is neck pain accompanied by pain, weakness and/or numbness in the arm, also referred to as a "pinched nerve", corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief says the study. Surgery is a last resort according to the findings and should only be considered if accompanying arm pain is persistent or if the person is experiencing Grade 4 pain due to serious injury or systemic disease.
Top findings for neck pain suffers:
Stay as active as you can, exercise and reduce mental stress.
Don't expect to find a single "cause" for your neck pain.
Be cautious of treatments that make "big" claims for relief of neck pain.
Trying a variety of therapies or combinations of therapies may be needed to find relief -- see the therapies for which the Task Force found evidence of benefits.
Once you have experienced neck pain, it may come back or remain persistent.
Lengthy treatment is not associated with greater improvements; you should see improvement after 2-4 weeks, if the treatment is the right one for you.
There is relatively little research on what does or does not prevent neck pain; ergonomics, cervical pillows, postural improvements etc. may or may not help.
"This is an important body of research that will help to improve the quality of patient care by incorporating the best evidence into practice and patient education," says Dr. Carroll. "Neck pain can be a stubborn problem -- we hope this comprehensive analysis of the evidence will help both sufferers and health care providers better manage this widespread complaint."
Therapies such as neck collars and ultrasound are not recommended. The study found that corticosteroid injections and surgery should only be considered if there is associated pain, weakness or numbness in the arm, fracture or serious disease.
The Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and Its Associated Disorders 236 page review of the current research on neck pain is published in the journal Spine. The multi-national and inter-disciplinary study team included Canadian, American, South American, Australasian and European researchers. The Task Force was created to help neck pain sufferers and health professionals use the best research evidence to prevent, diagnose and manage neck pain.
"Neck pain is not a trivial condition for many people," says Task Force president Dr. Scott Haldeman, clinical professor, department of neurology at the University of California, Irvine; and adjunct professor, department of epidemiology University of California Los Angeles. "It can be associated with headaches, arm and upper back pain and depression. Whether it arises from sports injuries, car collisions, workplace issues or stress, it can be incapacitating. Understanding the best way to diagnose and manage this problem is of high importance for those who are suffering and for those who manage and pay for its care."
The study found that neck pain is a widespread experience that is a persistent and recurrent condition for the majority of sufferers. It is disabling for approximately two out of every 20 people who experience neck pain and affects their ability to carry on with daily activities says the Task Force.
A key recommendation of the Task Force is that neck pain, including whiplash-related pain, be classified and treated in a common system of 4 grades:
Grade 1: neck pain with little or no interference with daily activities
Grade 2: neck pain that limits daily activities
Grade 3: neck pain accompanied by radiculopathy ("pinched nerve" -- pain weakness and/or numbness in the arm)
Grade 4: neck pain with serious pathology, such as tumor, fracture, infection, or systemic disease.
"The majority of neck pain falls into Grades 1 or 2," says Task Force member, Dr. Linda Carroll, Associate Professor, School of Public Health at the University of Alberta, and Associated Scientist, Alberta Centre for Injury Control and Research (ACICR). "Many sufferers manage to carry on with their daily activities. Others find their pain interferes with their ability to carry out daily chores, participate in favorite activities or be effective at work. For these people, the evidence shows there are a relatively small number of therapies that provide some relief for a while, but there is no one best option for everyone."
In addition to its comprehensive review of the existing body of research on neck pain, the Task Force also initiated a new study into the association between chiropractic care of the neck and stroke. This innovative piece of research found that patients who visit a chiropractor are no more likely to experience a stroke than are patients who visit their family physician. The study concludes that this type of stroke commonly begins with neck pain and/or headache which causes the patient to seek care from their chiropractor or family physician before the stroke fully develops.
"This type of stroke is extremely rare and has been known to occur spontaneously or after ordinary neck movements such as looking up at the sky or shoulder-checking when backing up a car," noted the study's lead author, Dr. David Cassidy, professor of epidemiology at the University of Toronto and senior scientist at the University Health Network at Toronto Western Hospital.
For the minority of neck pain sufferers who experience Grade 3 neck pain -- that is neck pain accompanied by pain, weakness and/or numbness in the arm, also referred to as a "pinched nerve", corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief says the study. Surgery is a last resort according to the findings and should only be considered if accompanying arm pain is persistent or if the person is experiencing Grade 4 pain due to serious injury or systemic disease.
Top findings for neck pain suffers:
Stay as active as you can, exercise and reduce mental stress.
Don't expect to find a single "cause" for your neck pain.
Be cautious of treatments that make "big" claims for relief of neck pain.
Trying a variety of therapies or combinations of therapies may be needed to find relief -- see the therapies for which the Task Force found evidence of benefits.
Once you have experienced neck pain, it may come back or remain persistent.
Lengthy treatment is not associated with greater improvements; you should see improvement after 2-4 weeks, if the treatment is the right one for you.
There is relatively little research on what does or does not prevent neck pain; ergonomics, cervical pillows, postural improvements etc. may or may not help.
"This is an important body of research that will help to improve the quality of patient care by incorporating the best evidence into practice and patient education," says Dr. Carroll. "Neck pain can be a stubborn problem -- we hope this comprehensive analysis of the evidence will help both sufferers and health care providers better manage this widespread complaint."
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Acupuncture for lower back pain?
Acupuncture treatment may be more effective than conventional therapy in treating lower back pain
Six months of acupuncture treatment appears to be more effective than conventional therapy in treating low back pain, according to a study in the Sept. 24 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals, although the study suggests that both sham acupuncture and traditional Chinese verum acupuncture appear to be effective in treating low back pain.
“Low back pain is a common, impairing and disabling condition, often long-term, with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 70 percent to 85 percent,” the authors write as background information in the article. “It is the second most common pain for which physician treatment is sought and a major reason for absenteeism and disability.” Acupuncture is increasingly used as an alternative therapy, but its value as a treatment for low back pain is still controversial.
Michael Haake, Ph.D., M.D., of the University of Regensburg, Bad Abbach, Germany, and colleagues conducted a randomized clinical trial involving 1,162 patients (average age 50) who had experienced chronic low back pain for an average of eight years. Patients underwent ten 30-minute sessions (approximately two sessions per week) of verum acupuncture (387 patients), sham acupuncture (387 patients) or conventional therapy (388 patients). Verum acupunture consisted of needling fixed points and additional points to a depth of 5 millimeters to 40 millimeters based on traditional Chinese medicine, while sham acupuncture consisted of inserting needles superficially (1 millimeter to 3 millimeters) into the lower back avoiding all known verum points or meridians. Conventional therapy consisted of a combination of medication, physical therapy and exercise. Five additional sessions were offered to those who had a partial response to treatment (10 percent to 50 percent pain reduction).
“A total of 13,475 treatment sessions were conducted (verum acupuncture, 4,821; sham acupuncture, 4,590; conventional therapy, 4,064),” the authors write. Patients receiving the additional five sessions were 232 (59.9 percent) in the verum group, 209 (54.3 percent) in the sham group and 192 (52.5 percent) in the conventional group.
Response rate was defined as a 33 percent improvement in pain or a 12 percent improvement in functional ability. “At six months, response rate was 47.6 percent in the verum acupuncture group, 44.2 percent in the sham acupuncture group and 27.4 percent in the conventional therapy group,” the authors note. “Differences among groups were as follows: verum vs. sham, 3.4 percent; verum vs. conventional therapy, 20.2 percent; and sham vs. conventional therapy, 16.8 percent.”
“The superiority of both forms of acupuncture suggests a common underlying mechanism that may act on pain generation, transmission of pain signals or processing of pain signals by the central nervous system and that is stronger than the action mechanism of conventional therapy,” the authors conclude. “Acupuncture gives physicians a promising and effective treatment option for chronic low back pain, with few adverse effects or contraindications. The improvements in all primary and secondary outcome measures were significant and lasted long after completion of treatment.”
Six months of acupuncture treatment appears to be more effective than conventional therapy in treating low back pain, according to a study in the Sept. 24 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals, although the study suggests that both sham acupuncture and traditional Chinese verum acupuncture appear to be effective in treating low back pain.
“Low back pain is a common, impairing and disabling condition, often long-term, with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 70 percent to 85 percent,” the authors write as background information in the article. “It is the second most common pain for which physician treatment is sought and a major reason for absenteeism and disability.” Acupuncture is increasingly used as an alternative therapy, but its value as a treatment for low back pain is still controversial.
Michael Haake, Ph.D., M.D., of the University of Regensburg, Bad Abbach, Germany, and colleagues conducted a randomized clinical trial involving 1,162 patients (average age 50) who had experienced chronic low back pain for an average of eight years. Patients underwent ten 30-minute sessions (approximately two sessions per week) of verum acupuncture (387 patients), sham acupuncture (387 patients) or conventional therapy (388 patients). Verum acupunture consisted of needling fixed points and additional points to a depth of 5 millimeters to 40 millimeters based on traditional Chinese medicine, while sham acupuncture consisted of inserting needles superficially (1 millimeter to 3 millimeters) into the lower back avoiding all known verum points or meridians. Conventional therapy consisted of a combination of medication, physical therapy and exercise. Five additional sessions were offered to those who had a partial response to treatment (10 percent to 50 percent pain reduction).
“A total of 13,475 treatment sessions were conducted (verum acupuncture, 4,821; sham acupuncture, 4,590; conventional therapy, 4,064),” the authors write. Patients receiving the additional five sessions were 232 (59.9 percent) in the verum group, 209 (54.3 percent) in the sham group and 192 (52.5 percent) in the conventional group.
Response rate was defined as a 33 percent improvement in pain or a 12 percent improvement in functional ability. “At six months, response rate was 47.6 percent in the verum acupuncture group, 44.2 percent in the sham acupuncture group and 27.4 percent in the conventional therapy group,” the authors note. “Differences among groups were as follows: verum vs. sham, 3.4 percent; verum vs. conventional therapy, 20.2 percent; and sham vs. conventional therapy, 16.8 percent.”
“The superiority of both forms of acupuncture suggests a common underlying mechanism that may act on pain generation, transmission of pain signals or processing of pain signals by the central nervous system and that is stronger than the action mechanism of conventional therapy,” the authors conclude. “Acupuncture gives physicians a promising and effective treatment option for chronic low back pain, with few adverse effects or contraindications. The improvements in all primary and secondary outcome measures were significant and lasted long after completion of treatment.”
Increased Rx Adverse Events
FDA Report on Increased Rx Adverse Events Points Americans to ''Drug-Less'' Approach to Patient Care
Following the publication of a report based upon U.S. Food and Drug Administration data that says serious adverse drug side effects -- and deaths stemming from them -- more than doubled from 1998-2005 (Archives of Internal Medicine; 9/10/07), The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress points to the value of “drug-less” care delivered by the nation’s chiropractors. The Foundation (www.f4cp.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the awareness of the benefits of chiropractic care.
“One of the goals of the practice of chiropractic is to offer patients a non-drug oriented approach to addressing many health problems, and to assist patients in avoiding the use of over-the-counter and prescription drugs whenever possible -- to the greatest extent possible,” says Gerard W. Clum, D.C. president of Life Chiropractic College West, Hayward, Calif., and spokesperson for the Foundation. “This holistic approach to care benefits the patient and avoids the clear risks associated with taking unnecessary medications.”
According to the FDA report, from 1998 through 2005, reported serious adverse drug events increased 2.6-fold from 34,966 to 89,842, and fatal adverse drug events increased 2.7-fold from 5,519 to 15,107. Reported serious events increased 4 times faster than the total number of outpatient prescriptions during the period. Data for the report came from The U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System, in operation since 1998.
The announcement by the Foundation is consistent with The Identity Consultation of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC), according to Clum. The WFC holds as a central tenet that chiropractors are the spinal health care experts in the health care system, and should work “without use of drugs and surgery, enabling patients to avoid these where possible.”
Dr. Clum points to a previously reported study which documents significant decrease in blood pressure following upper cervical chiropractic care using the NUCCA analysis and adjusting protocols. Results published in the March 2007 online issue of the Journal of Human Hypertension validate that this decrease is equivalent to taking two blood pressure drugs simultaneously,” says Dr. Clum. “Americans have valid, well established options of a drugless nature, the core of a chiropractor’s approach to wellness.”
Visit www.foundation4cp.com to access an online free health seekers calendar or call 916.359.0327.
About F4CP
The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress is a 501c6 corporation that represents a cross section of the chiropractic and vendor communities with the goal of increasing the public’s awareness of the benefits of chiropractic. www.f4cp.org.
Following the publication of a report based upon U.S. Food and Drug Administration data that says serious adverse drug side effects -- and deaths stemming from them -- more than doubled from 1998-2005 (Archives of Internal Medicine; 9/10/07), The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress points to the value of “drug-less” care delivered by the nation’s chiropractors. The Foundation (www.f4cp.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the awareness of the benefits of chiropractic care.
“One of the goals of the practice of chiropractic is to offer patients a non-drug oriented approach to addressing many health problems, and to assist patients in avoiding the use of over-the-counter and prescription drugs whenever possible -- to the greatest extent possible,” says Gerard W. Clum, D.C. president of Life Chiropractic College West, Hayward, Calif., and spokesperson for the Foundation. “This holistic approach to care benefits the patient and avoids the clear risks associated with taking unnecessary medications.”
According to the FDA report, from 1998 through 2005, reported serious adverse drug events increased 2.6-fold from 34,966 to 89,842, and fatal adverse drug events increased 2.7-fold from 5,519 to 15,107. Reported serious events increased 4 times faster than the total number of outpatient prescriptions during the period. Data for the report came from The U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System, in operation since 1998.
The announcement by the Foundation is consistent with The Identity Consultation of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC), according to Clum. The WFC holds as a central tenet that chiropractors are the spinal health care experts in the health care system, and should work “without use of drugs and surgery, enabling patients to avoid these where possible.”
Dr. Clum points to a previously reported study which documents significant decrease in blood pressure following upper cervical chiropractic care using the NUCCA analysis and adjusting protocols. Results published in the March 2007 online issue of the Journal of Human Hypertension validate that this decrease is equivalent to taking two blood pressure drugs simultaneously,” says Dr. Clum. “Americans have valid, well established options of a drugless nature, the core of a chiropractor’s approach to wellness.”
Visit www.foundation4cp.com to access an online free health seekers calendar or call 916.359.0327.
About F4CP
The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress is a 501c6 corporation that represents a cross section of the chiropractic and vendor communities with the goal of increasing the public’s awareness of the benefits of chiropractic. www.f4cp.org.
Chiropractor Adds ZYTO Biotechnology
Chiropractic Physician Dr. Tamara Santa Ana has added ZYTO (tm) bioechnology to the healthcare services offered to clients at her chiropractic and wellness clinic, ProActive Health Solutions & Chiropractic.
ProActive Health Solutions & Chiropractic is a chiropractic and clinical nutrition facility offering detoxification, individualized clinical nutrition programs, as well as ZYTO Balance (tm) and ZYTO LSA Pro (tm).
ProActive Health Solutions & Chiropractic is located at 150 Walker Street on Summit Square in Lexington. Additional information and appointments can be obtained by calling 540-463-2462.
ZYTO Corp. is a bio-technology company specializing in bio-information and bio-communication. Using principles of biology, quantum physics, and the science of information the technology can facilitate meaningful communication between computers and living things.
“The use of ZYTO technology has advanced my ability to work with individual patients to an extent that is absolutely awe inspiring. I can use the ZYTO LSA Pro to very quickly determine which areas of concern we need to look at, and which nutrition needs should be considered. Many times I have discovered areas of developing concern that the patient was not even yet aware of,” explained Santa Ana.
By combining quantum physics, biology, and information theory ZYTO technology provides an interface between living things and computers allowing them to talk to each other, according to company founder and C.E.O. Dr. Vaughn R. Cook, OMD.
“My practice has grown wildly since employing the technology of ZYTO. I have had numerous patients come from out of state to be tested. It is even more exciting that they can now purchase a hand cradle and I can continue to test them remotely from their home. I found it absolutely amazing that word of this incredible tool has traveled so quickly. I will soon be testing a patient long-distance when they travel to Peru,” said Santa Ana.
The process is simple to administer with just one brief office visit. Patients simply place their hand on a sensor that is connected to a computer. In just a few minutes the results can be seen on a computer screen, and an assessment and recommendation can be made, according to Santa Ana.
ZYTO Corp. has a web site at http://www.ZYTO.com
ProActive Health Solutions & Chiropractic is a chiropractic and clinical nutrition facility offering detoxification, individualized clinical nutrition programs, as well as ZYTO Balance (tm) and ZYTO LSA Pro (tm).
ProActive Health Solutions & Chiropractic is located at 150 Walker Street on Summit Square in Lexington. Additional information and appointments can be obtained by calling 540-463-2462.
ZYTO Corp. is a bio-technology company specializing in bio-information and bio-communication. Using principles of biology, quantum physics, and the science of information the technology can facilitate meaningful communication between computers and living things.
“The use of ZYTO technology has advanced my ability to work with individual patients to an extent that is absolutely awe inspiring. I can use the ZYTO LSA Pro to very quickly determine which areas of concern we need to look at, and which nutrition needs should be considered. Many times I have discovered areas of developing concern that the patient was not even yet aware of,” explained Santa Ana.
By combining quantum physics, biology, and information theory ZYTO technology provides an interface between living things and computers allowing them to talk to each other, according to company founder and C.E.O. Dr. Vaughn R. Cook, OMD.
“My practice has grown wildly since employing the technology of ZYTO. I have had numerous patients come from out of state to be tested. It is even more exciting that they can now purchase a hand cradle and I can continue to test them remotely from their home. I found it absolutely amazing that word of this incredible tool has traveled so quickly. I will soon be testing a patient long-distance when they travel to Peru,” said Santa Ana.
The process is simple to administer with just one brief office visit. Patients simply place their hand on a sensor that is connected to a computer. In just a few minutes the results can be seen on a computer screen, and an assessment and recommendation can be made, according to Santa Ana.
ZYTO Corp. has a web site at http://www.ZYTO.com
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Alpha-Stim SCS stress control
Relieving patient's pain and suffering naturally has always been a goal for Dr. Michael McIrvin.
This is why Dr. McIrvin, Chiropractic Physician and clinic director of The Pain Relief Center in McPherson, now utilizes the Alpha-Stim 100 micro-current electrical stimulator (MET). The Alpha-Stim 100 works for those suffering from acute, chronic or post-operative pain, and is FDA-approved for reducing pain. The Alpha-Stim 100 works with the body on a large variety of ailments, including many difficult-to-treat problems. The Alpha-Stim produces residual and cumulative results, far superior to previous (TENS) devices. Turn a TENS off and the pain returns. Although broadly classified as a TENS, the Alpha-Stim 100 is significantly superior because MET works with tiny currents, closer to the type and amount of electricity that naturally occurs in the body. By comparison, the electric current used by typical TENS devices is thousands of times greater than natural body current. Although a slight tingling sensation is sometimes felt under the electrodes, it is not necessary to feel this in order to achieve results. Many people feel nothing at all with the Alpha-Stim 100 except positive results. It is applied through easy to use probes or self-adhesive electrodes.
“The Alpha-Stim 100 treats anxiety, depression and insomnia with micro-current using a method called cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES). The treatment is very simple.” Dr. McIrvin said. The current is applied by easy-to- use clip electrodes that attach on the ear lobes. It is used just 20 to 40 minutes every day, every other day. Or on an as needed basis, it can help induce a pleasant, relaxed feeling of well being.
The Alpha-Stim is well-tolerated and very safe in contrast to drugs used in the treatment of mood disorders, many of which have been proven to have undesirable side effects and can be addictive. Unlike drugs, the Alpha-Stim 100 leaves the mind alert. Anxiety reduction is usually experienced during treatment. Depression and insomnia control is generally experienced after one to two weeks of daily treatment. CES can also help treat the underlying mood disorders associated with pain. It may be used as an adjunct to medication and/or psychotherapy. After treatment, there are usually no physical limitations imposed so that the majority of people can resume normal activities immediately. Maintenance of a relaxed, yet alert, state is generally achieved with treatments three times per week. As a result, the Alpha-Stim 100 is suitable for clinical or home use.
“Since the Alpha-Stim 100 is FDA approved for treatment of pain, insomnia, anxiety and depression, we are assured it is a safe and effective treatment for these conditions” said Dr. McIrvin. “I have used the Alpha-Stim to treat acute and chronic back and neck pain, post operative and cancer pain, carpal tunnel, headaches, fibromyalgia and sinus pain. For patients with severe or chronic pain, the Alpha-Stim can be prescribed for purchase or rental for home use. We teach patients how to utilize the Alpha-Stim for home use right here in the clinic. It has been a great therapy to use in addition to the chiropractic care I provide.”
Dr. McIrvin indicated that many patients will feel immediate relief of their pain after just one treatment. “Even for patients that are too painful to undergo traditional chiropractic care, we can give them almost immediate pain relief of 50-80%. Most patients are amazed at how well the device works. Many of my patients with fibromyalgia are counting the hours until their next treatment. They feel so much better, they can hardly wait!”
This is why Dr. McIrvin, Chiropractic Physician and clinic director of The Pain Relief Center in McPherson, now utilizes the Alpha-Stim 100 micro-current electrical stimulator (MET). The Alpha-Stim 100 works for those suffering from acute, chronic or post-operative pain, and is FDA-approved for reducing pain. The Alpha-Stim 100 works with the body on a large variety of ailments, including many difficult-to-treat problems. The Alpha-Stim produces residual and cumulative results, far superior to previous (TENS) devices. Turn a TENS off and the pain returns. Although broadly classified as a TENS, the Alpha-Stim 100 is significantly superior because MET works with tiny currents, closer to the type and amount of electricity that naturally occurs in the body. By comparison, the electric current used by typical TENS devices is thousands of times greater than natural body current. Although a slight tingling sensation is sometimes felt under the electrodes, it is not necessary to feel this in order to achieve results. Many people feel nothing at all with the Alpha-Stim 100 except positive results. It is applied through easy to use probes or self-adhesive electrodes.
“The Alpha-Stim 100 treats anxiety, depression and insomnia with micro-current using a method called cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES). The treatment is very simple.” Dr. McIrvin said. The current is applied by easy-to- use clip electrodes that attach on the ear lobes. It is used just 20 to 40 minutes every day, every other day. Or on an as needed basis, it can help induce a pleasant, relaxed feeling of well being.
The Alpha-Stim is well-tolerated and very safe in contrast to drugs used in the treatment of mood disorders, many of which have been proven to have undesirable side effects and can be addictive. Unlike drugs, the Alpha-Stim 100 leaves the mind alert. Anxiety reduction is usually experienced during treatment. Depression and insomnia control is generally experienced after one to two weeks of daily treatment. CES can also help treat the underlying mood disorders associated with pain. It may be used as an adjunct to medication and/or psychotherapy. After treatment, there are usually no physical limitations imposed so that the majority of people can resume normal activities immediately. Maintenance of a relaxed, yet alert, state is generally achieved with treatments three times per week. As a result, the Alpha-Stim 100 is suitable for clinical or home use.
“Since the Alpha-Stim 100 is FDA approved for treatment of pain, insomnia, anxiety and depression, we are assured it is a safe and effective treatment for these conditions” said Dr. McIrvin. “I have used the Alpha-Stim to treat acute and chronic back and neck pain, post operative and cancer pain, carpal tunnel, headaches, fibromyalgia and sinus pain. For patients with severe or chronic pain, the Alpha-Stim can be prescribed for purchase or rental for home use. We teach patients how to utilize the Alpha-Stim for home use right here in the clinic. It has been a great therapy to use in addition to the chiropractic care I provide.”
Dr. McIrvin indicated that many patients will feel immediate relief of their pain after just one treatment. “Even for patients that are too painful to undergo traditional chiropractic care, we can give them almost immediate pain relief of 50-80%. Most patients are amazed at how well the device works. Many of my patients with fibromyalgia are counting the hours until their next treatment. They feel so much better, they can hardly wait!”
Research-based practice of chiropractic medicine
What: SpineCare Inc.
Who: Dr. Anthony Houssain
What it does: Functions as a spine rehabilitation clinic. The practice's approach varies from a traditional chiropractic clinic with its "research-based practice of chiropractic medicine," Houssain said. The practice has clinics in Huntsville and Madison.
Employees: 15 - four doctors, six rehabilitation assistants, five office staff
Company history: Founded in January 2002 and "defied conventional wisdom. We focused on quietly building a research-based practice of chiropractic medicine ... to market effectively to an untapped resource: medical doctors." Houssain identified family physicians and spine surgeons as "two opportunities for rapid business growth. Our model has evolved into 'quarterbacking' " spine cases for teams such as the Huntsville Havoc and Tennessee Valley Vipers, Alabama A&M University and Bob Jones High School football. While SpineCare doctors explore new areas to develop ideas, "Our foundation remains unchanged - providing evidence-based, non-surgical spine management to the medical community and their patients."
Honors: Finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year at the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Awards program.
Secret of success: Equal attention to "sciences of chiropractic medicine and business. Both are required to identify an unmet need, realize the solution and, most importantly, communicate to our market."
Biggest mistake: "Systems in place that helped us in one clinic didn't work with two clinics." Fortunately, the doctors learned about controlling growth of the practice.
http://www.visitspinecare.com
Who: Dr. Anthony Houssain
What it does: Functions as a spine rehabilitation clinic. The practice's approach varies from a traditional chiropractic clinic with its "research-based practice of chiropractic medicine," Houssain said. The practice has clinics in Huntsville and Madison.
Employees: 15 - four doctors, six rehabilitation assistants, five office staff
Company history: Founded in January 2002 and "defied conventional wisdom. We focused on quietly building a research-based practice of chiropractic medicine ... to market effectively to an untapped resource: medical doctors." Houssain identified family physicians and spine surgeons as "two opportunities for rapid business growth. Our model has evolved into 'quarterbacking' " spine cases for teams such as the Huntsville Havoc and Tennessee Valley Vipers, Alabama A&M University and Bob Jones High School football. While SpineCare doctors explore new areas to develop ideas, "Our foundation remains unchanged - providing evidence-based, non-surgical spine management to the medical community and their patients."
Honors: Finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year at the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Awards program.
Secret of success: Equal attention to "sciences of chiropractic medicine and business. Both are required to identify an unmet need, realize the solution and, most importantly, communicate to our market."
Biggest mistake: "Systems in place that helped us in one clinic didn't work with two clinics." Fortunately, the doctors learned about controlling growth of the practice.
http://www.visitspinecare.com
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