| Alternative Therapies and Treatment
Options updated Wednesday, October 08, 2008 Page under construction. Therapies listed do not represent the scope of therapies and treatments available.
Medical benefits of aromatherapy questioned Aromatherapy is endorsed by some as an alternative medical treatment, but the results of one study failed to demonstrate that aromatherapy improves immune status, wound healing, or pain control, according to a March 3, 2008, news release from The Ohio State University, Columbus. Researchers monitored the effects of Lemon and Lavender aromatherapy treatments on 56 volunteers' blood pressure, heart rate, blood biochemistry, healing ability, reaction to pain, and results of psychological testing of mood and stress. Blood samples were analyzed to measure the effects of aromatherapy on immune and stress responses. Aromatherapy treatment using Lemon or Lavender essential oils did not demonstrate a positive effect on biochemical markers for stress, pain control, or wound healing. Lemon oil did appear to enhance participants' mood, but lavender showed no measurable effect on mood or health. Aromotherapy may make you feel good, but it won't make you well [news release]. Columbus, OH: The Ohio State University; March 3, 2008. http://reseorchnews.osu.edu/archive/aromathe.htm. Accessed March 10, 2008. COPYRIGHT 2008 Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc. Fibromyalgia Pain and Substance P Decrease and Sleep
Improves After Massage Therapy. Abstract:
Hypnosis has long been used to treat both psychological and medical disorders. The Ancient Egyptians and Chinese used hypnosis to relieve symptoms of pain over two thousand years ago. Hypnosis was also used in the 1800s by medical doctors for anesthetic purposes. Recently, hypnosis has received more attention from the medical field; in fact, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has now recommended that hypnosis be used as part of a treatment regime for chronic pain like that caused by fibromyalgia. What is Hypnosis? Contrary to popular belief, though, people who are in a state of hypnosis are not unaware of their actions and will not do anything that they have a serious moral or ethical objection to. In fact, you do have control over your actions as well as what you say while you are hypnotized. Moreover, you have the ability to remember what transpired while you were hypnotized. However, in some cases, your subconscious mind may choose to "forget" just what happened. Types of Hypnosis
Stages of Hypnosis First Stage: The first stage of hypnosis is often referred to as a superficial trance. This is the lightest stage of hypnosis, during which you are aware of all of your surroundings. This type of trance is commonly used to help correct addictive behaviors such as smoking. During a superficial trance, you will accept suggestions but may not act upon them afterwards. Second Stage: The second stage, the alpha state, is a deeper level of hypnosis. You may notice that your breathing begins to slow down, as will your heart rate and blood pressure, It is this stage of hypnosis that is used to control pain. Third Stage: The third stage of hypnosis is the deepest. Psychiatrists use this stage to access forgotten emotions, memories, and events. It is often used to help those who have undergone severe psychological trauma. How Does Hypnosis Work? Effects of Hypnosis on Fibromyalgia Sufferers
Jane Kohler 2008 Craniosacral therapy is an alternative treatment technique that is very similar to osteopathy and physical therapy. It it a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle palpatations on your skin. It is believed this procedure reduces pain and bolsters your immune system. It was created in the nineteen-seventies by Dr. John Upledger, who based his treatment on theories developed in the early nineteen-thirties by William G. Sutherland. Sutherland and Upledger theorized that the craniosacral system, which include the brain, spinal cord and the surrounding fluid play a large part in your overall health. Craniosacral therapists believe that the cerebrospinal fluid emits a measurable pulse as it rises and falls (called the cranial rhythmic impulse), much like your heart and blood vessels. If this pulse is upset it can cause a number of health problems, including fibromyalgia. Therapists locate this pulse by placing their fingers over specific areas of the body and once located, they begin to restore a normal pulse. Using gentle palpitations on areas of your head they restore a healthy, cranial rhythmic pulse, reducing your symptoms. Treatments are received in individual offices and last from forty minutes to one hour, depending on your level of need. Unlike massage you will remain clothed and encouraged to relax as they work on your spine, head and neck. Ask your local clinic, hospital
or doctor for known, reputable craniosacral therapists or check with the Upledger
Institute for one near you. Sound frequency is measured in units called Hertz. Low frequency sounds are comprised of those sound wavelengths that are between the range of 17 Hertz and 0.001 Hertz. Many animals, including elephants, whales, and giraffes, communicate with one another using low frequency sound. Humans cannot hear most of these low frequency sounds, because we only recognize sounds traveling at frequencies between 20 Hertz and 20,000 Hertz. However, our bodies can subconsciously receive and interpret low frequency sound waves. What is Low Frequency Sound Therapy? How Do You Use Low Frequency Sound Therapy? Low frequency or infrasonic therapy is typically delivered in a hand-held or portable device. This device has a transducer that is very similar to that used in ultrasound technology. You simply run this transducer over various parts of your body in order to receive the healing benefits of the low frequency sound waves. Low frequency sound therapy can also be delivered in specially designed chairs that are equipped with internal speaker systems. These systems deliver low frequency sound to your body while you are sitting in the chair. Both chair and hand-held systems often incorporate massage therapy in order to maximize the benefits of low frequency sound therapy. What are the Benefits of Low Frequency Sound Therapy? How Does Low Frequency Sound Therapy Work? How Does Low Frequency Sound Therapy Help Fibromyalgia? The study delivered low frequency sound therapy through a portable device to fibromyalgia sufferers on a daily basis. Upon completion of the study, 89% of participants were reported to have experienced at least a 50% reduction in pain symptoms. Many of these patients also experienced periods of complete symptom relief when exposed to the low frequency sound therapy. Costs of Low Frequency Sound Therapy Cupping therapy has been adapted for use from a form of traditional Chinese medicine. This type of therapy uses glass cups applied to the skin to help relieve pain, flush out toxins, and restore healthy blood flow to the body. Using heat or a suction pump, a vacuum is created inside of each glass cup. These cups are then placed on various acupuncture points throughout the body and left for about ten minutes. Types of Cupping
History of Cupping Throughout the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries, cupping was commonly used to help cure common colds and chest infections. Nowadays, cupping is making a big comeback. In the United States, it is offered by many massage therapists and acupuncturists, with various celebrities, including Gwyneth Paltrow, taking advantage of this ancient technique.. The Benefits of Cupping
It also works to reduce pain and soften stiff muscles and tissues. Cupping Therapy for Fibromyalgia
What to Expect During A Session
Though these implements may worry you, rest assured, this is not a painful treatment. You will lie down on a massage table and your therapist will first locate areas that require treatment. Once these areas have been identified, the cupping procedure will begin.
You will feel a slight suction where each cup has been applied. Typically, between four and six cups are applied during one session. These are left on the skin for no more than 15 minutes. If you are receiving a massage cupping treatment, oil will first be rubbed over your skin. The glass cups will then be moved over your skin to help massage sore muscles and joints. After the Cupping Treatment Finding a Cupping Therapist Toxic & hazardous chemicals found in top selling scented laundry products and air fresheners University of Washington 08-24-2008"Five of the six products emitted one or more carcinogenic 'hazardous air pollutants,' which are considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to have no safe exposure level." - Anne C. Steinemann A University of Washington study of top-selling laundry products and air fresheners found the products emitted dozens of different chemicals. All six products tested gave off at least one chemical regulated as toxic or hazardous under federal laws, but none of those chemicals was listed on the product labels. "I first got interested in this topic because people were telling me that the air fresheners in public restrooms and the scent from laundry products vented outdoors were making them sick," said Anne Steinemann, a UW professor of civil and environmental engineering and of public affairs. "And I wanted to know, 'What's in these products that is causing these effects?'" She analyzed the products to discover the chemicals' identity. "I was surprised by both the number and the potential toxicity of the chemicals that were found," Steinemann said. Chemicals included:
"Nearly 100 volatile organic compounds were emitted from these six products, and none were listed on any product label. Plus, five of the six products emitted one or more carcinogenic 'hazardous air pollutants,' which are considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to have no safe exposure level," Steinemann said. Her study was published online by the journal Environmental Impact Assessment Review. [See “Fragranced consumer products and undisclosed ingredients,” July 10, 2008.] Steinemann chose not to disclose the brand names of the six products she tested. In a larger study of 25 cleaners, personal care products, air fresheners and laundry products, now submitted for publication, she found that many other brands contained similar chemicals. [Note: The Environmental Working Group offers detailed information on the fragrance & other chemicals in thousands of branded cosmetics. See "Online Safety Guide to Cosmetics and Personal Care Products."] Because manufacturers of consumer products are not required to disclose the ingredients, Steinemann analyzed the products to discover their contents. She studied:
She bought household items at a grocery store and asked companies for samples of industrial products. In the laboratory, each product was placed in an isolated space at room temperature and the surrounding air was analyzed for volatile organic compounds - small molecules that evaporate from the product's surface into the air. Results showed 58 different volatile organic compounds above a concentration of 300 micrograms per cubic meter, many of which were present in more than one of the six products. For instance:
This study does not address links between exposure to chemicals and health effects. However, two national surveys published by Steinemann and a colleague in 2004 and 2005 found that:
Manufacturers are not required to list the ingredients used in laundry products and air fresheners. Personal-care products and cleaners often contain similar fragrance chemicals, Steinemann said. And although cosmetics are required by the Food and Drug Administration to list ingredients, no law requires products of any kind to list chemicals used in fragrances. "Fragrance chemicals are of particular interest because of the potential for involuntary exposure, or second-hand scents," Steinemann said. "Be careful if you buy products with fragrance, because you really don't know what's in them," she added. "I'd like to see better labeling. In the meantime, I'd recommend that instead of air fresheners people use ventilation, and with laundry products, choose fragrance-free versions." The European Union recently enacted legislation requiring products to list 26 fragrance chemicals when they are present above a certain concentration in cosmetic products and detergents. No similar laws exist in the United States. "I hope this study will raise public awareness, and reduce exposures to potentially hazardous chemicals," said Steinemann. For more information, contact Anne C. Steinemann at (206) 616-2661 or acstein@u.washington.edu Note: This information has not been evaluated by the FDA. It is generic and is not meant to prevent, diagnose, treat or cure any illness, condition, or disease. It is very important that you make no change in your healthcare plan or health support regimen without researching and discussing it in collaboration with your professional healthcare team. Chelation Therapy - risks or side effects? Chelation with EDTA has been used to treat heavy metal poisoning such as lead. For this use, there is a low occurrence of side effects. The safety of EDTA for treating heart disease has not been established. The most common side effect is a burning sensation at the site where the EDTA is delivered into the vein. Rare side effects can include fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Even more rare are serious side effects that can include a sudden drop in blood pressure, abnormally low calcium levels in the blood, permanent kidney damage, and bone marrow depression (meaning that blood cell counts fall). Reversible injury to the kidneys, although infrequent, has been reported with EDTA chelation therapy. Other serious side effects can occur if EDTA is not administered by a trained health professional. In addition, because chelation therapy removes important vitamins and minerals from the body, it will be very important for you to take the vitamin supplements A Comparative Analysis of Clinical Outcomes in the Refractive IBS Patient vs. the Newly Diagnosed By
Michael Mahoney Clinical Hypnotherapist A Comparative Analysis of Clinical Outcomes in the Refractive IBS Patient vs. the Newly Diagnosed The successful use of clinical hypnotherapy (CHT) for the treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome has been established in at least 14 published studies (1) (2) where it has been shown to produce significant reduction in the cardinal IBS symptoms and associated symptoms such as anxiety. The success of this treatment method in the clinical setting is contingent upon the protocol being gut-directed or gut-specific, i.e. directly addressing the digestive tract, balancing the dismotility and restoring its proper function while allowing the patient to take part in their own healing. Sufferers who consider hypnotherapy currently tend to do so as a 'last resort' rather than a first approach after diagnosis. In treating IBS patients since 1991, I recognised a consistent trend in therapy outcomes and decided to investigate this further with an informal observational study. From September 2003 to January 2005, I assigned 40 patients with the same primary IBS diagnostic criteria into two groups. The first group consisted of 20 IBS patients of long-standing, termed as refractory where no previous medical interventions provided relief. Age ranges for this group was 27 years to 66 years; average age was 42.2 years; comprised of 10 males average age 38.7 years, 10 females average age 45.6 years. The second group included 20 newly diagnosed IBS patients with ages ranging from (24 years) to (64 years); average age (40.1 years), there were (10) males average age 40.2 years and (10) females average age 40.1years. The newly diagnosed patients had no prior IBS treatment intervention upon their arrival to me, however, they may have presented with symptoms for varying degrees of time. The clinical protocol (3) consisted of an initial intake consultation session, where the IBS patient discusses symptoms and concerns. A life-style, QOL and symptom questionnaire was also completed at this time, and again upon therapy completion to assess improvement rating. The
intake session was followed by an introductory session, where the patient was apprised of
the method of CHT and assurances were given. Following that, five gut-specific sessions
were presented to the patient dealing with: Standard treatment would allow for patients being seen five times over a 12 - 14 week period and all participants received a recording of each session which was listened to according to a specific schedule. Psychological State and QOL of IBS Patient Prior to receiving CHT. The intake information of the Refractory IBS Patient presented with two findings: 1.
Higher Failure Expectation after years of frustration and unsuccessful treatment
resolution. The intake information for the Newly Diagnosed presented with two findings: 1.
Less expectation for either failure or success for therapy outcome. Outcome
of CHT treatment However, refractory IBS patients who had received other forms of treatment first, had a longer recovery and symptom reduction time frame. It was found that for these patients, the time required to move forward to the next session became extended by an average of 1 to 3 weeks (or more in some cases) depending upon severity and longevity of symptoms and the resultant psychological issues. This group's confidence and self esteem was very low, and their ability to see things in perspective was significantly reduced. When talking about the psychological elements most of these patients wept. After sometimes years of pain and discomfort, and the following of unsuccessful treatment options it was clear this group of sufferers had become emotionally drained. Having presented with, for example, such symptoms as diarrhoea, 3 or more times a day, often uncontrollable and explosive for years, it was therefore not surprising that such patients presented with anxiety or various levels of depression. Before these sufferers could even begin to work through the IBS, the hypnotherapy sessions first provided a strong emotional base that increased self-esteem, confidence, and allowed the sufferer to begin a journey of self improvement and management, and thereby equip themselves emotionally to move away from the symptoms and the familiarity of IBS thoughts and commence recovery initially at the emotional level. The newly diagnosed group who received CHT as a first line of treatment showed a much quicker response towards their improvement in IBS symptoms, and did not require extensions in the standard protocol time frame. It was my observation that early intervention with CHT may reduce or eliminate the multi-faceted component of IBS, thus leading to earlier/less prolonged symptom reduction. My findings appeared to confirm this trend that was observed early on. Since the subconscious mind does not have to deal with non-present comorbid complaints with the majority of newly diagnosed patients, the IBS symptoms are dealt with initially and directly and resolved more quickly. For the refractory patient, internal and emotional energies relegated to coping with the long-standing burden of IBS usually must first be dealt with by the subconscious before IBS issues can be addressed. Implications
and Conclusion This bears out a real look at providing CHT concurrently as a complementary therapy as a first line of treatment upon initial IBS diagnosis, and may prove to be a good defense in treating the whole person as the method has shown to improve the IBS symptom reduction rate, and may curtail or even eliminate possible further decline in QOL and psychological issues. (4) So
what does this tell us? Reference
List 2. Hauser W. Medizinische Klinik I, Klinikum Saarbrucken gGmbH, Saarbrucken. Hypnosis in Gastroenterology. Z Gastroenterol 2003 May;41 5:405-12 PMID: 12772053 3. In 1996 Mahoney was invited to participate in a medical research study funded by the UK National Health Service which was monitored and audited by the local Health Authority Audit Commission. Medical centre GPs and hospital gastroenterologists screened 20 IBS patients: all were long-term sufferers, had undergone all medical diagnostic tests, and had taken prescription medications without attaining significant relief from their symptoms. Each patient underwent Mahoney's original protocol of the introductory and five subsequent hypnotherapy sessions. At the end of the project, feedback sheets from the patients indicated an overall reduction of 80% in symptom severity and frequency of presentation. In 1997, Mahoney developed new processes for IBS clinical protocol. Patients were monitored using audio tapes both during the program and for the next three subsequent years: 1998 through 2001. The final results of this study are intended for independent publication so that they may be subject to peer review and analysis. Success rates were close to or exceeding 90% for all symptoms and patients. 4. Spiegel BM, Gralnek IM, Bolus R, Chang L, Dulai GS, Mayer EA, Naliboff B. Clinical determinants of health-related quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Arch Intern Med. 2004 Sep 13;164(16):1773-80. 5.Miller V, Hopkins L, Whorwell PJ. Suicidal ideation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2004 Dec;2(12):1064-8. 6. Pinto C, Lele MV, Joglekar AS, Panwar VS, Dhavale HS. Stressful life-events, anxiety, depression and coping in patients of irritable bowel syndrome. J Assoc Physicians India. 2000 Jun;48(6):589-93. 7. Whitehead WE, Crowell MD. Psychologic considerations in the irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 1991 Jun;20(2):249-67. 8. Lackner JM, Quigley BM. Pain catastrophizing mediates the relationship between worry and pain suffering in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Behav Res Ther. 2005 Jul;43(7):943-57. Epub 2004 Sep 25. 9. Spiller RC. Potential future therapies for irritable bowel syndrome: will disease modifying therapy as opposed to symptomatic control become a reality? Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2005 Jun;34(2):337-54. 10.
Palsson OS, Drossman DA. Psychiatric and psychological dysfunction in irritable bowel
syndrome and the role of psychological treatments. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2005
Jun;34(2):281-303. Michael
Mahoney is a member of various primay care societies, the Hypnotherapy Association, The
British Council of Hypnotist Examiners, as well as the International Foundation for
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, the European Association for Cancer Education and
the International Functional Brain-Gut Research Group. Alternative Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, dietary supplements, and herbs don't always get the official scientific nod, but some patients turn to them for help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Acupuncture for IBS Acupuncture is a popular alternative therapy for IBS and other conditions. It's proven effective for treating chronic pain, according to researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). However, the studies are mixed on whether the treatments really work for IBS. Some studies show that acupuncture helps with abdominal pain and other IBS symptoms. Other studies show that it doesn't help. Philip Schoenfeld, MD, MSEd, MSc, investigated various IBS treatments when he co-authored the treatment guidelines published by the American College of Gastroenterology. He says the hard data showing acupuncture's effectiveness isn't very good. Yet "that does not mean that acupuncture might not be helpful," he says. Many individuals say they feel better after acupuncture. Out of all alternative options, he suspects that acupuncture may help some people with IBS. It is not entirely clear how this traditional Chinese treatment works. Some researchers believe the acupuncture needles stimulate electromagnetic signals in the body. These signals are thought to either encourage the release of pain-killing chemicals, or nudge the body's natural healing systems into action. Acupuncture is ideally used with other treatments, says Jeanine Blackman, MD, PhD, medical director of the University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine. She says even in China, the therapy is never used on its own. Talk with your doctor if you are considering acupuncture. Oils and Supplements for IBS To help her IBS patients, Blackman recommends a combination of treatments, including changes in diet, stress reduction, and supplements such as evening primrose oil, borage oil, fish oil, or probiotics. She says the oil supplements help calm down the gut, and probiotics restore the good balance of bacteria in the digestive system. Evening primrose oil comes from the seed of a small yellow wildflower, and borage oil comes from the seed of a common weed. Both supplements are similar in nature. Some proponents say evening primrose oil can help improve IBS symptoms, especially in women who experience a worsening of pain, discomfort, and bloating during their menstrual period. But claims about evening primrose oil are largely unproven, reports the University of California at Berkeley Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements. Plus, side effects reportedly include stomach upset, headaches, and rashes. Fish oil supplements have been examined along with fish for a number of benefits, including preventing heart disease and easing autoimmune disorders. There doesn't appear to be any scientific proof, however, that they work for IBS. Herbs for IBS Herbs are also popular options for people with IBS. Peppermint is used to calm muscles in the colon, which may cause some of the diarrhea and abdominal discomfort suffered by people with IBS. Studies have been mixed with this herb. The Mayo Clinic advises anyone who'd like to try it to get the enteric-coated capsules, and to be aware that it may make heartburn worse. Registered herbalists never use peppermint on its own, nor do they recommend it for an extended period of time, says Jonathan Gilbert, who has a diplomate in herbology and acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). He is a senior consultant for traditional oriental medicine at the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland. For people who are interested in true herbal therapy, Gilbert recommends a visit to an herbalist who has comprehensive training and is certified by the NCCAOM. "In order to get a solution to a complex disorder, you need a complex formula, and in order to get that, you need to see someone who can actually prepare it," says Gilbert, noting he could combine up to 30 to 40 herbs for one formula. He says classic Chinese medicine has thousands of preset formulas for different ailments. A lot of these formulas can't be bought on store shelves, adds Gilbert. If you are interested in herbal therapy, dietary supplements, acupuncture, or any other treatment for your IBS, make sure you talk with your doctor. Herbs may interact with other medications you may be taking. Dietary supplements may become toxic if not used properly. Your doctor can also advise you on medicines for IBS with constipation and IBS with diarrhea. Probiotics for IBS On the other hand, there's some evidence that taking probiotics help IBS sufferers. Probiotics are bacteria that naturally live in the gut. Some people believe that several intestinal disorders may arise when there isn't enough good bacteria in the gut. One study found that probiotic treatment significantly improved IBS symptoms and quality of life. In the study, researchers primarily used the bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacteria infantis. People with IBS reported fewer symptoms and, in general, a higher quality of life after taking the probiotics for four weeks. Just as significant, the probiotic therapy did not appear to cause side effects, according to the study's author, Stephen M. Faber, MD, from Albemarle Gastroenterology Associates, PC, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. "These are organisms that are supposed to be in the gut. The body knows how to control them," Farber told WebMD. Therapy and Hypnosis for IBS Researchers have found that focusing the mind with hypnotherapy can improve the emotional and physical symptoms in those with IBS. In one study, 20 men and 55 women received between five and seven half-hour hypnotherapy sessions over a three-month period. Afterwards, patients reported a 30% improvement in emotional quality of life and a 16% increase in overall physical health. Two other studies conducted by one researcher included 135 people with IBS. The study participants who received 12 weekly one-hour hypnotherapy sessions focusing on their troubles with IBS showed a 52% improvement in their physical symptoms. Improvements were also maintained when researchers checked in with participants six months after the end of the study. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) trains people to identify and change inaccurate perceptions they may have of themselves and the world around them. It's also been used to help IBS patients ease symptoms and improve quality of life. Researchers gave a group of IBS patients up to 10 weekly sessions of CBT in one study. The sessions covered information on IBS, muscle relaxation training, development of a flexible set of problem-solving skills related to IBS, and ways to curb worries about the illness. Results showed that 60% to 75% of participants had improvement in their symptoms. Chelation therapy is based on the concept that when an amino acid complex known as EDTA (ethylene-diamine-tetra-acetic acid) comes into contact with positively charged metals and other substances, it will bind these toxins and remove them from the body. When EDTA binds to toxins, a stable compound will be formed that will then be excreted from the system. While synthetic amino acids are used in chelation therapy, the process actually takes place naturally in our bodies. For instance, during digestion amino acids will naturally bind to minerals such as iron in order to transport them to other parts of the body where they will be released. Chelation therapy for fibromyalgia treatment can help eliminate built-up ionic substances such as lead, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, plutonium and manganese. The Food and Drug Administration has approved chelation therapy for the treatment of metal toxicity such as lead poisoning. Beginning in the 1940’s, the amino acid complex EDTA (ethylene-diamine-tetra-acetic acid) was used to treat heavy metal poisoning; however, chelation therapy has been recognized as an effective treatment for hypercalcemia and ventricular arrhythmias as well. *Note: The American Heart Assoc. has issued a stern warning on this therapy pending further study. Chelation has been used for both fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, believed to be aggravated by heavy metal toxicity. Chelation therapy can be used as a natural fiibromyalgia treatment for its cleansing properties, as the accumulation of toxic exposure may contribute to cellular damage and future health problems. A reputable practicioner will submit you to a series of examinations and medical tests before begining treatment. They will also take a complete medical history that touches on your diet, health, family history, medications, injuries and stress levels. X-rays and blood work should also be expected. EDTA for Fibromyalgia can be administered orally or by blood infusion. Treatment may be two to three times a week and may last up to thirty sessions. The IV drip therapy may last up to three hours. Edta may not be the only additive to your drip, if your practicioner deems it necessary he/she may also add vit. C, B and heparin, to prevent clotting. After treatment you may experience headaches, skin irritation, nausea, diarrhea, fatigues or joint pain. This is attributed to the fact that your body may be addicted to the metals the EDTA has removed from your body, causing you to go through a period of withdrawl. Do NOT attempt this line of treatment without consulting with your primary care provider. Cupping therapy: Can it relieve fibromyalgia pain? Q.Is there any evidence that cupping therapy relieves fibromyalgia pain? A.There's no conclusive evidence that cupping therapy relieves fibromyalgia pain. But anecdotal evidence suggests a benefit. Cupping therapy is typically practiced by traditional Chinese medicine practitioners. The theory behind cupping is that it moves or stimulates your body's natural energy — also called qi. Basically, cupping involves heating the air inside a glass cup, which removes some of the air from the cup. The cup is then quickly placed on the skin and the resulting vacuum pulls the skin part of the way into the cup. The cup may be left in place for several minutes and then removed, leaving behind a bright red, circular welt. Although it sounds painful, it's not. Many articles have been published on cupping. But many of these are case reports or anecdotes published in Chinese medical journals — and not always available in English. There have been no peer-reviewed clinical trials specifically evaluating cupping as a treatment for painful conditions. Thus, although cupping has been a part of Chinese healing traditions for at least 3,000 years, available research hasn't yet documented its effectiveness. Eastern Medicine Offers Alternative IBS Treatments There is nothing conventional about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For some patients, this mysterious ailment means diarrhea, while for others constipation. Additional symptoms include gas, bloating and stomach cramps. Traditional treatments are understandably varied considering the inconsistency of the illness. Behavioral options include high fiber diets, limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption, regular exercise and some form of stress relief (yoga, meditation). Pharmaceutical treatments include the recently approved Zelnorm, for female patients suffering from constipation, and Lotronex, approved (on a special circumstance basis) for women suffering from diarrhea. However, no pharmaceutical on the market provides relief for all IBS patients. In lieu of a chemical solution, many patients are turning to alternative methods of treatment to find relief from their nagging symptoms. CHINESE MEDICINE There are eight branches of Chinese medicine; each emphasize balancing a person's chi, or energy, in relation to their three realms: heaven, human and earth. These branches include: herbal therapy, acupuncture, diet, massage, exercise, mediation, cosmology and feng shui.1 According to traditional Chinese medicine, IBS is the product of an infection of heat and dampness of the gastrointestinal system. The head and dampness may be caused from external sources (weather) or internal sources (eating improper food).2 A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1998 followed 116 patients who were suffering from IBS. Participants were divided into three treatment groups: individualized Chinese herbal formulations, standard Chinese herbal formulations or a placebo. The results of the double-blind placebo-controlled trial found patients being actively treated saw significant improvement in their bowel condition. Herbal treatments tailored to the patient were no more effective than the standard treatment. Researchers concluded Chinese herbal formulations improved the conditions of IBS patients.3 Acupuncture has long been used in Eastern cultures as a method of treating a variety of ailments. There are some 2,000 acupuncture points where needles can reportedly stimulate and regulate the flow of chi. Acupuncture is a method of keeping yin, the soft and feminine qualities, in balance with yang, the dark and masculine qualities.1 Pam Marsh, an IBS patient in Golden, Colo., turned to acupuncture after suffering for many years. "My internist referred me to an acupuncturist for treatment," she says. "He had seen good results with other patients with IBS and Crohn's symptoms." Marsh receives treatment in a healthcare center that offers both Eastern and Western medicine. "The process takes about an hour," she describes. "The acupuncturist first takes my pulse and other readings. He sometimes checks my tongue, puts pressure on certain points, etc. I lie on my back on a massage table and needles are applied. Usually the needles are left in for 20 to 30 minutes. They are placed in a variety of places: toes, foot, stomach, hands and wrist. It never hurts, but will sometimes create a burning sensation for the first couple of seconds. Breathing deeply and slowly helps reduce the sensation. Afterward, I feel a bit spacey for a half an hour or so. If I have symptoms or discomfort before a session, I most likely leave feeling much better." Marsh says she is using this alternative treatment, along with behavioral changes, to improve the illness she has been suffering from for 20 years. "I have used various medicines," she says, "but I have also made changes to my diet and keep to a daily exercise program." She says while initially hesitant to trust treatment outside of the Western methodology, she recommends the procedure to others. "I am a believer," she says. "I have been able to go off of the over-the-counter and prescriptive drugs with the acupuncture treatments. I was raised with traditional Western medicine beliefs, with my father being a pharmacist. So it was a stretch for me to trust this Eastern medicine. I believe acupuncture can help with a variety of problems. I recently had damage to the trigeminal nerve and have found relief through acupuncture. Like any other medical practice, however, I think you need to search out acupuncturists who are well-respected and recommended in the community." OVERLAPPING IDEAS Although Western and Eastern medical ideologies seem distinctly different, there are several treatment options both trains of thought agree on. Diet, exercise and finding a method of stress relief, possibly meditation, are three behavioral methods of treatment for IBS urged by both ideologies. Changing a person's diet for IBS is also a conundrum based on symptoms. Flax seed is often recommended as a natural laxative for those suffering from IBS-related constipation. Chinese herbs for treating constipation include: aquilaria root, white atractylodes rhizome, szechuan pepper fruit, melia fruit, codonopsis root, torreya seeds, poria, rubia, licorice root, dried ginger, myrobalan fruit, omphalia gruiting body, nutme seed and more. Patients suffering from diarrhea related to IBS may be advised to stay away from dairy products. Additionally, limiting alcohol, caffeine and nicotine are recommended for all patients. Drinking at least eight glasses of water daily can also help alleviate some symptoms. Exercise and finding a method to relieve stress are also important behavioral changes that should be made by IBS patients. Ideally, patients should try to exercise 60 minutes daily, per the new Institute of Medicine guidelines. Methods of meditation and stress relief include: yoga, stretching, Pilates, qui gong, tai chi, other martial arts, journaling, daydreaming, walking, hiking, etc. Meditation requires mindful concentration. While a spiritual practice for some, today the practice can be applied to nearly any activity that requires focus. Herbert Benson, MD, was one of the first Western physicians to write about the health benefits of meditation. The first article published on the topic was written by Benson in 1970 in the Journal of Transpersonal Psychology. The Harvard researcher wrote mediation could reduce heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen consumption and muscle tension.5 FINDING AN ACUPUNCTURIST The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine has a list of acupuncturists nationally. They also have certification information for those interested in studying the practice. NCCAOM: (703) 548-9004 www.acupuncture.com The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture can recommend an acupuncturist who is also a physician. AAMA: (323) 937-5514 www.medicalacupuncture.org6 With a vague cloud hanging over IBS research and treatment options, it is important to have information about other medical ideologies that may provide relief for your patients Natural Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
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Mr. Cobb is a respected and successful leader in the technology industry. Mr. Cobb's career spans over 30 years as an executive officer, as well as executive level sales and management experience within different companies. About Younger America: Younger America is a holding Company that develops and acquires under-valued companies that provide products to improve the quality of life without the use of potentially harmful drugs or chemicals. The Company aims to acquire a portfolio of companies that provide leading-edge alternative medical devices, systems and services. The roll-up of these companies will create value for the shareholders and provide innovative technologies and products that can enhance the quality of life for their customers. Forward-Looking Statements: Please be advised that statements made herein, other than historical data, constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated or implied by such forward-looking statements. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, potential volatility in the company's stock price, increased competition, customer acceptance of new products and services offered by the company, and uncertainty of future revenue and profitability and fluctuations in its quarterly operating results. Please also be advised that the company's stock is not currently registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Medical progress in the 20th century has been striking, and the advancement of the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases has greatly contributed toward prolonging life expectancy. However, for patients who receive treatment for diseases, this being not limited to cardiovascular diseases, there is no way of determining the gravity of internal suffering and conflict. Patients accept any examination and treatment that can help them to recover from diseases, even when it may involve pain. All surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and transplant therapy are therapies that inflict considerable pain and long term suffering on patients, mentally and physically. Patients still accept such therapy, because they expect it to help them recover from their disease.\ Without suffering from the diseases, it is impossible to understand the extent of pain, tension, and stress that are imposed on patients with the purpose of saving life. Even if the suffering of patients arising from various intractable diseases can be treated with inpatient hospital care at a large hospital combined with state-of-the-art medical facilities, patients have no opportunity, during the course of treatment, to experience a feeling of comfort and a pleasant state of mind arising from refreshing perspiration. The treatment modality “thermal therapy” that I have worked on since 1989 is a warming therapy for soothing the mind and body equally, with 60°C dry far-infrared sauna bathing. Therefore, if “thermal therapy” is referred to as “Waon therapy,” it is easy to understand the true meaning as distinguished from, for example, “local high-heat therapy for cancer.” “Soothing warmth: Waon” is a word I have coined, and “Waon” can be understood in Japanese as “soothing warmth,” meaning “warmth that comfortably refreshes the mind and body.” In other words, “Waon” is the essence of the “thermal therapy” that I have been improving and refining for eighteen years. Therefore, to obtain a correct understanding of my “thermal therapy” modality, I would like to refer to it as “Waon therapy: soothing warmth therapy” and I would like to familiarize readers further with the idea. “Waon therapy” is defined as “therapy in which the entire body is warmed in an evenly heated chamber (device) for 15 minutes at a temperature that soothes the mind and body, and after the deep-body temperature has increased by approximately 1.0?1.2°C, the soothing warmth effects are sustained by maintaining the warmth at rest for an additional 30 minutes, with fluids corresponding to perspiration being supplied at the end.” There are various clinical applications 1-11) of “Waon therapy,” and the effects are dramatic. In particular, a drastic recovery is often seen in intractable diseases that are resistant to drug therapy such as severe heart failure 1), which is an indication of the need for a heart transplant, peripheral artery disease with intractable ulcer 6), severe fibromyalgia syndrome 9), chronic fatigue syndrome 8), and salivary secretion failure caused by Sjogren’s syndrome 10)). The effects are remarkable, and “Waon therapy” is not simply therapy for organs and local sites. It also improves the systemic vascular function, corrects central and peripheral autonomic nerves and neurohumoral factors (hormonal activity), and activates autoimmunity and the bio-defense mechanism. If “Waon therapy” is performed once a day for 3?5 days a week over the course of a 2?6-week period (10 weeks for peripheral artery disease) a clearly positive effect on the intractable diseases mentioned above can be obtained. Furthermore, with subsequent continuation for 2?3 days a week, the effects of “Waon therapy” can also be steadily maintained. To demonstrate the effectiveness of “Waon therapy” as a comprehensive therapy, the effects on chronic heart failure are briefly described in the following example. “Waon therapy” improves the clinical conditions, cardiac function, and vascular function of patients with chronic heart failure and corrects abnormal autonomic nervous response and neurohumoral factors 3). It dilates systemic arteries and veins to reduce the preload and afterload on the heart and significantly increase cardiac output 1). Arrhythmia caused by chronic heart failure is significantly decreased 4). In addition, “Waon therapy” considerably improves a depressive state, insomnia, anorexia, and ill feelings of patients with heart failure 3). If “Waon therapy” is performed once a day for 5 days a week over the course of a 2-week period (10 times in total), cardiomegaly is significantly reduced, the cardiac function is improved, and ANP and BNP can be significantly decreased 3). If “Waon therapy” is subsequently continued even furth er, then the prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure tends to significantly improve. In an investigation using a heart failure model (TO-2 hamsters), it was verified that the group for which “Waon therapy” was continually repeated once a day had a 35% improved survival rate compared to the group without this therapy 12). “Waon therapy” significantly improves the endothelium-dependent vasodilatory potency of patients with heart failure. In an experiment using heart failure model hamsters, “Waon therapy” considerably increased the expression of mRNA of vascular endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in vascular endothelial and intensified the expression of eNOS protein 13,14). A remarkable expression of mRNA and protein of eNOS was also observed in an experiment with peripheral arterial disease models 15). Specifically, after an apolipoprotein E-knockout mouse has a femoral artery removed, if “Waon therapy” is continually repeated once a day for 35 days, the expression of mRNA and the protein level of eNOS also considerably increases, while the number of blood capillaries increases, the blood flow remarkably improves in the ischemic limbs, and angiogenesis can be achieved. In other words, “Waon therapy” is deeply involved in the production of effects on genetic, molecular, and cellular levels, and this treatment modality therefore plays an important role in the recovery of the living body. “Waon therapy” is safe and highly cost-efficient, and is also a gentle comprehensive therapy that soothes patients and encourages refreshing perspiration, unlike conventional therapy, which often requires the patient’s endurance. I sincerely hope that “Waon therapy” will be approved for coverage by medical insurance as soon as possible, as a new therapy for the 21st century. Such approval would be very good news for our patients. Efficacy of Waon therapy for fibromyalgia. |
