Arthritis Treatment: Focus On Muscular Stiffness, Joint Swelling, And Cartilage Repair

Effective arthritis treatment reduces inflammation in arthritic joints and creates an atmosphere for the body to repair its own cartilage deterioration. The best way to reduce inflammation is to lengthen all the muscles that attach to or surround the arthritic joint. Cartilage regeneration is also possible if excessive muscular tension is removed from the arthritic joint. Joints typically affected by arthritis are: knee, neck, shoulder, low back, hip, spine, hand or thumb, foot or toe. Regardless of the joint, the best way to treat arthritis is Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) therapy.

Arthritis therapy must address muscular inflexibility, because it is always a principle factor in arthritis pain. Joints are surrounded by muscles. Tightness in muscles cause joint inflammation and cartilage deterioration: two conditions that cause pain in arthritis sufferers. Joint inflammation causes swelling, which induces pain by pressing on the nerves. Furthermore, muscle strains on the arthritic joint cause a wearing down of cartilage. Cartilage is the shock absorber between joints. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are affected by joint inflammation and cartilage degeneration. Both rheumatoid arthritis sufferers and osteoarthritis sufferers must resolve muscular stiffness as part of their treatment plan. Optimal muscle lengthening is high value treatment for all types of arthritis.

Dr. Arthur Grayzel, former medical director of the Arthritis foundation is quoted in the book Keys to Understanding Arthritis, by Elizabeth Vierck. Dr. Grayzel states that "as people age, muscles lose their elasticity, leading to a reduced range of motion (page 11)." Limited range of motion causes cartilage deterioration. As the area of joint movement decreases, the joint begins to burrow a hole in the cartilage because it constantly treads in the same small area. Active Isolated Stretching therapy increases the range of motion in arthritic joints. As unnecessary muscular tension is taken off the joint, the joint will move in a greater surface area throughout the joint. Ceasing the process of cartilage degeneration.

Leon Sokoloff, M.D. examined cartilage regeneration. His findings are discussed in the book Healing Joint Pain Naturally by Ellen Hodgson Brown. Dr. Sokoloff states that "new cartilage could grow on bones but the real problem is the stress on the joint that keeps intervening and preventing this process (page 22)." If Dr. Sokoloff had studied Active Isolated Stretching, he would have discovered the critical link that helps arthritis sufferers naturally repair their cartilage. The stress on the joint that prevents new cartilage to grow on bones is excessive muscular tension.

In AIS treatment: circulation is refreshed into the problem area; stagnant waste products move out of the arthritic joint; fresh oxygen and nutrition move into the arthritic joint. The condition of cells surrounding the arthritic joint are improved, all of which facilitates cartilage regeneration.

The endorsement of stretching for arthritis pain is nothing new. But Active Isolated Stretching is an optimized form of stretching that is fifteen times more effective than older modalities. Conventional stretching, pnf stretching, yoga, and Thai massage have been incompetent in lengthening muscles. Optimal stretching cannot occur if the stretch hold is done for more than two seconds. Stretches done in repetition are better than one long stretch. The target muscle cannot stretch if the muscle is contracting, so stretch position must be reexamined. And target muscles cannot fully open if the lateral muscle fibers are not addressed. These points are only addressed in Active Isolated Stretching. Active Isolated Stretching reduces joint inflammation and facilitates cartilage regeneration by getting to the source of the problem.

Foods that Promote Inflammation

"The more severe the pain or illness, the more severe will be the necessary changes. These may involve breaking bad habits, or acquiring some new and better ones." -Peter McWilliams

You are not helpless in your fight against inflammation! Your diet plays a major role in activating or suppressing a protein called cytokines that causes inflammation. I can't stress this enough. For that and other reasons that will be discussed shortly, I would like you to start thinking in terms of: "Is what I'm swallowing making me healthier or sicker?" There is little if any neutral ground. It is as if everything that you swallow is sending a signal to your immune system to either cause more inflammation or less.

The following are groups of foods that you should avoid because they send a signal to your body to produce more inflammatory cytokines. They are also toxic to your body in multiple ways, polluting the internal terrain of the body and promoting inflammation.

Most Meat, Except Oily Fish

We often hear the phrase "all things in moderation". Meat, especially red meat, is an exception to this rule. Even what most would consider a "moderate" amount of red meat can produce an intolerable number of cytokines and bring on autoimmune symptoms.

For some, the "low-carb craze" has meant an increase in meat consumption. If eating the low-carb way means that you are eating a lot of meat, you are making your autoimmune condition worse. Protein from meat raises the levels of the toxins uric acid and urea in the blood. The body pumps excessive amounts of water into the kidneys to help flush out these toxins. The result of a high animal-based protein diet is very quick water "weight loss". The downside of this "weight loss" is that it causes the body to lose essential minerals. Mineral deficiencies cause autoimmunity. A better protein choice comes from vegetable-based proteins. These proteins improve mineral retention in the body.

One doctor has reported that within two weeks of his lupus patients not eating meat, most showed significant improvement in their skin lesions.

The Swank Diet calls for giving up red meat for one year. Then, after the first year, allowing yourself four ounces of red meat per week. This diet has made a significant improvement in the lives of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Dr. Swank studied more than 150 of his patients with MS for a thirty-four year period of time. Those who followed the diet died at the rate of 5%, while patients not following his diet had a death rate of about 85% during the same time period.

However, reducing meat intake isn't just about living longer, it is about living well! This recommendation is for everyone, not just those whose collection of autoimmune symptoms are called lupus or MS. No matter where in your body cytokines gather or what they are attacking, eating red meat will increase their numbers. The way that meat is prepared also makes a difference. Charbroiled and grilled meats of any kind are much worse for you and should be completely avoided.

Fish is the exception to the meat rule. Fish does not raise cytokine levels. It actually reduces them. The problem is that much of our fish is contaminated with toxic mercury. Unless you are sure that your fish source is mercury free, you should limit your fish intake to one serving per week and use fish oil supplements instead. Some people will even be sensitive to one contaminated serving of fish. Check your local health food stores for fish farmed in "mercury-free" tested water. Additionally, salmon is a fish that is readily available and least likely to be mercury contaminated.

Egg Yolks

Egg yolks and dairy products are high in arachidonic acid. This is the same substance that makes meats so inflammatory. If you are going to eat eggs, you should only eat the whites. On a food label, eggs can be listed as albumin, globulin, ovamucin, or vitellin.

Dairy Products

"...countries with the highest dairy consumption, such as the United States and Sweden, because of their high animal protein diets, have the highest rates of osteoporosis, a disease involving the weakening and potential breaking of bones."
-Richard Schwartz, Ph.D.

Research published in the Lancet Medical Journal described a small group of patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) in Norway. For four years, they experienced substantial improvement by excluding milk and wheat from their diets. Reintroducing these foods into their diets caused a significant rise in the patients' cytokine levels along with an increase in pain.

Besides increasing cytokines, milk further aggravates asthma because of its casein content. When the protein of another animal is introduced into the human body, the immune system responds with an allergic reaction. Casein is a milk protein. Eating casein causes your body to produce histamines, which result in excess mucus production.

Those with CFS and asthma are not alone in their sensitivity to milk. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, July 30, 1992, studies suggest that a certain milk protein is responsible for the onset of diabetes because patients produce antibodies to cow milk proteins.

Milk's vices are many. As strange as it may sound, the digestion of milk proteins can create an addictive substance that acts like endorphins, our own personal narcotics. The same can be true of gluten and wheat. These endorphins have the ability to disrupt brain chemistry and cause addiction.

I am sorry, but this has to be said: Last year, the average liter of milk in America contained 323 million pus cells. Sick and infected cows have cell counts above 200 million. A count of 323 million is not even healthy by dairy industry standards. Drinking pus is a bad idea for anyone. It is a terrible idea for someone with a tendency towards immune dysfunction.

Gluten

Gluten is a component of grains such as wheat, oats, barley, and rye. Besides being inflammatory, doctors have reported a higher than average number of people with autoimmune disorders are allergic to gluten. They suggest complete avoidance for at least one month to see if benefits will occur.

Studies have also shown that wheat and corn can irritate patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and raise cytokine production in the colon and rectum of those with celiac disease.

Corn, Corn Oil, Corn Syrup (Fructose)

Corn, besides promoting cytokines, has been called the leading cause of chronic food addiction in this century. To give you an idea of how powerful the addiction can be, all cigarettes made in the U.S. since World War I have contained added sugars, usually from corn. Do you think the cigarette companies chose corn syrup for the great taste it adds to their products?

Corn syrup (fructose) is cheap and twice as sweet as cane sugar. In 1994, the average person ate 83 pounds of fructose. Corn syrup causes an increase in blood lactic acid, especially in people with diabetes. Fructose from corn syrup inhibits copper metabolism and decreases mineral availability, two factors in autoimmunity. Fructose also breaks down into a substance that weakens your body's natural anti-inflammatory molecules. The body does not metabolize fructose the same as other sugars. Fructose converts to fat more than any other sugar. Corn fructose certainly isn't the diabetic-friendly and harmless sugar substitute that it is advertised to be.

Studies have shown that corn can irritate patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA) suggests corn should be avoided because it can aggravate Fibromyalgia.

Remember that if corn products can increase cytokine levels in those with RA and Fibromyalgia, it can increase cytokine levels for anyone.

Sugar

We Americans are eating an average of 153 pounds of sugar a year. Refined white sugar makes
it more difficult for your body to absorb vitamins and minerals, a major contributor to the cause of autoimmunity. Sugar also suppresses immune function, leaving us open to infection. Just eight tablespoons of sugar, which is the equivalent to the sugar in less than one 12-ounce can of soda, can reduce the ability of your immune system to kill germs by up to 40%.

Like salt, sugar is dehydrating to the body. Dehydration increases histamine, which can
worsen asthma and any other autoimmune disease because histamine increases cytokine production. As recommend by the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA), sugars should be avoided because they can worsen the condition. Sugar feeds Lyme-causing bacteria and Candida yeast, the significance of which will be discussed later. Eating sugar also causes an insulin surge, which contributes to chronic inflammation.

Honey is sugar. It may be "all natural", but it is still sugar. It is higher in calories than table sugar and can be contaminated by pesticides. Consuming "all natural" delicious tasting pesticides is not what you want to be doing.

A good non-toxic substitute for sugar is the nutritional supplement stevia. Stevia has been used by millions of people without reported side effects. In Japan, stevia sweetened products represent 41% of the market share of sweet substances consumed.

Stevia is an herb originally from Paraguay. South Americans use it as a sweetener and also for medicinal purposes. This herb is anywhere from 30 to 100 times sweeter than sugar. Stevia does not affect the blood sugar levels of most diabetics. Stevia also does not feed fungus in the intestines like sugars do.

Stevia has a strong, sweet flavor that can overwhelm a recipe, so it should be used sparingly. Because you only use such a small amount at a time, recipes must be adjusted for the lack of bulk. Stevia can often be purchased with helpful inulin added to it for bulk. Also, cakes and cookies sweetened with stevia do not brown as much as their sugar-sweetened counterparts.

Flour/Processed Foods

For you simple carbohydrate-lovers (addicts), the next sentence is going to be one of the most painful ones in the book. If you want to get rid of cytokine inflammation, you must give up processed foods and junk foods. They tend to be full of everything you shouldn't eat. This list includes most breakfast cereals, muffins, breads, crackers, cookies, and doughnuts.

White flour contains alloxan, which is the chemical used to make flour look clean and white. Alloxan destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. It does so by initiating free radical damage to the DNA in the pancreas. Researchers believe that some people have weak defenses to free radicals in these beta cells. Alloxan is so potent that researchers who study diabetes use it to give diabetes to lab animals. While not everyone who eats white breads and processed foods will get diabetes, the connection is clear: Alloxan causes diabetes in those genetically susceptible to the disease.

The Nightshade Family

Vegetables in the nightshade family include white potatoes, tomatoes, all peppers, cherries, tobacco, and eggplants. Research indicates that these vegetables produce pain and inflammation in arthritis patients and aggravate Fibromyalgia according to the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA). However, not everyone will be sensitive to nightshade foods. The only way to know for sure is to avoid them for a period of weeks then reintroduce them into your diet.

Everyone should avoid tobacco, which is a toxic member of the nightshade family, permanently.

Coffee

Despite being inflammatory, coffee has had its medicinal purposes. My own ancestors used it to treat asthma. I have friends outside the U.S., who are still dependent upon coffee to treat asthma. Certain caffeine-type chemicals in coffee have been proven effective at stimulating bronchial dilation in people diagnosed with specific types of asthma. Some modern day asthma medications are even made from chemicals in the caffeine family.

For those using coffee as a natural asthma medication, you should keep in mind that caffeine is a toxic chemical. Its purpose in plant life is to act as an insecticide. In people, caffeine suppresses the enzymes needed for memory making. It also raises both blood sugar and insulin levels, causing cytokine production and aggravating diabetes.

Simply drinking decaffeinated coffee isn't the answer either. Women who drink more than one cup a day of decaffeinated coffee are considered at a much higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. The theory is that chemically decaffeinated products are causing the increased risk of autoimmunity. If you are going to drink decaffeinated coffee anyway, be sure that it uses a non-chemical based decaffeinating method and that the coffee was organically grown. Those who do not drink organic coffee, are exposed to too many man-made pesticides.

Alcohol

The wine industry has America convinced that a glass or two a day is good for your heart. However, John Folts, Ph.D of the University of Wisconsin, has done studies, which show that to receive those heart-healthy benefits, you would have to consume enough wine to be declared legally drunk. Grape juice is a healthier alternative. Dr. Folt's study also found that only ten to twelve ounces of purple grape juice was associated with lower blood clotting, thus a lower risk of heart disease than promised by red wine.

Besides being pro-inflammatory and addictive, alcohol breaks down to a toxin in the body called aldehyde. Toxins are dangerous chemicals that the liver does not recognize as useful. Toxins attack and destroy cells and attract germs. Aldehyde accumulates in the brain, spinal cord, joints, muscles and tissues, where it causes muscle weakness, irritation, and pain.

Conclusion

"Within each of us lies the power of our consent to health and sickness ... It is we who control these, and not another."
-Richard Bach

It is up to us as individuals to read labels and avoid those foods that are causing inflammation in the body and making us sick. With many of these foods, because you consume them on a daily basis, you don't even recognize they are causing you symptoms. Unless you totally give them up for a month or so, you won't know how these inflammatory foods have been affecting you.

How To Choose A Wheelchair For Your Handicapped Dog

If you say wheelchairs, the first thing that comes to your minds are the elderly or handicapped persons. But guess what dog wheelchairs also exist to help your beloved dog recovers from accident or breed related joint ailments.

Dogs are known as man's best friend. Dogs are very adorable and very social animals. When it comes to stories of loyalty and service dogs are always the lead characters. Yet sadly they are not invincible. Yes they get injured sometimes. Sometimes it leads them to being handicapped.

For it is not uncommon for elderly, injured, or disabled dog to lose their back and front mobility. For this situation, this does not be the end of a dog's life. A dog cart or maybe a dog wheelchair can bring the dog's life better again as it can result to a wholesome and healthy life.

These are the common reasons why dogs need wheelchairs:

o Hip Dysplacia

o Disc disease

o Ruptured discs

o Spinal cord injuries

o Fractured back

o Arthritis

o Chronic leg weakness

o Front and back leg amputation

o Paralysis

o Neurological disease

o Limb paralysis

If one of these affects your dog, especially the overall mobility performance, there is now an easy way and affordable solution to finally help your dog to move around just like before. You can now be at ease in seeing your dog in better shape despite suffering from illnesses or ailments. For in a dog wheelchair you too can have the time to enjoy playing with your pet again either indoors or outdoors.

In finding the right dog wheelchair or cart for your disabled dog, you must buy the perfect one to fit the condition for there are different kinds of dog wheelchairs available in the market today. Is your dog having a back or front problem? Different wheelchairs and carts support the back, front, or all four legs. Dog wheelchairs are designed for specific conditions; these include stirrups, training wheels, counterbalanced carts, and counterweights for amputees.

There are many dog wheelchair designs made by manufactures with the advantage of proving the effectiveness to handicapped dogs. The right way to understand dog wheelchairs is to properly examine to how it is to be used by the animal. For in some dog wheelchairs, the dog wears a harness that is attached with its clips framed to the cart. In another way, the dog sits on the saddle.

How to purchase a dog wheelchair:

1. Measure your dog- once you finally chose which type of wheelchair you want, complete the entire owner/dog questionnaire and measurement chart for the manufacturer's design.

2. If you want to order, go personally to the manufacturer's office. If you want to order online make it sure you know the procedure and the cost which will usually be displayed on the website.

3. If there are problems with your order, directly discuss it to the manufacturer. Sometimes, before you order, they will ask for information or photos regarding the case your dog is experiencing.

4. After finally purchasing your desired wheelchair and your dog is wearing it, give your pet time to adjust to their new condition.

Finally, helping your dog become what they used to be is very important factor that you should consider. Make sure what you want for your dog meets your expectations. Bringing your dog to their usefulness is what you really ask for.

21 Natural and Effective Tips for Helping You Overcome Back Pain!

Is your back pain ruining your quality of life? Are you finding it hard to stand, sit or walk for long periods of time? Are you tired of taking pain killers every time you experience an ache? You can finally have peace of mind knowing that there are natural and long lasting solutions available to help with this debilitating condition.

As a Chiropractor, I see many people everyday who suffer from an ache in the back. For many of them, an accident, injury, poor posture or repetitive strain has been the cause. Some have been suffering for weeks or months, and others for many years. While in most cases, the pain will disappear within a month, for some, back discomfort just becomes part of their 'normal' life. With back pain affecting 85% of people, it's no wonder it is the main reason why people entre my office seeking help. In this article I have included a number of natural remedies and long term solutions which have enabled many back pain sufferers to enjoy a more comfortable life. Some of these tips may provide you with short term pain relief, while others will minimise the onset of future episodes of back discomfort.

Let's now have a look at some natural ways of alleviating the pain in your back.

1. Regular Chiropractic care is an excellent form of back pain treatment. It is effective in helping you overcome your back ache, and can also prevent the onset this discomfort in the future.

One of the causes of back pain is a spinal subluxation (misalignment). The effects of these subluxations include muscle strain, disc problems, joint discomfort and nerve pressure - all of which lead to back pain. Chiropractors check for and correct these subluxations. Adjustments to the spine restores the proper mobility to the spinal joints.

Once your back problem is resolved, a good Chiropractor will give you exercises and self help tips to maintain a healthy back.

There have been many studies conducted which support the effectiveness of Chiropractic for back pain sufferers. Some studies have shown Chiropractic to be more effective than medication and surgery. Others made mention that Chiropractic care cost 10 times less than medical treatment when it comes to resolving back problems, and that pain sufferers where able to return to work much sooner when seeing a Chiropractor than any other physician.

Someone once said, and I completely agree, 'Try Chiropractic first, medication second, and surgery third'.

If you are looking for a long term solution to your back problem, consider Chiropractic as your number one choice. It is safe, gentle, and really works!

2. Participate in low impact activities such as swimming, walking or bike riding. These exercises keep your spine moving, and low for toning and strengthening of your back muscles.

3. When sitting ensure your feet can touch the ground. It is ideal to have your knees level with or higher than your hips. If your seat is too high and your legs dangle, this can cause more stress on your spine.

4. Mattresses can play a part in back pain. A soft, sagging mattress may contribute to the development of back problems or make existing problems worse. Likewise, mattresses that are too firm may also cause problems. If any part of you feels tense when lying on your mattress, chances are, it is not suitable for you.

5. Lifting - don't lift objects that are too heavy for you. If you attempt to lift something, ensure you keep the object close to your body, bend your knees, keep your back straight, and look ahead. When lifting, lift with your knees and not your back. Keep your abdominal muscles nice and tight. Never twist while lifting, as this can lead to back injury.

6. Avoid the prolonged use of lumbar support belts - these belts have been shown to weaken your back muscles and consequently lead to back injury.

7. Tone up your abdominal muscles - these muscles help to support a strong lower back. Weak abdominals can lead to weak back muscles.

8. Vitamin B12 has been found to relieve low back pain. (which foods are ideal?)

9. Magnesium helps to maintain normal muscle and nerve function. Low magnesium levels can lead to pain and muscle tightness. (which foods are ideal?)

10. Yoga creates balance in your body by developing strength and flexibility. Perhaps yoga may be more beneficial once you have commenced Chiropractic care, as Chiropractors can correct problems with the spine which may limit you from being able to perform some yoga poses.

11. Massage the affected area using herbal oils (which ones?). this gets rid of tension and relaxes the muscles in the area

12. Do not recline or lie on a lounge chair (couch) as they do not provide our bodies with adequate support. This can bring on back discomfort, and worsen your symptoms.

13. Avoid prolonged bed rest. While some of us resort to lying in bed in times of back pain, research shows that lying in bed for extended periods of time may prolong recovery and even make symptoms worse. Any more than 3 days of bed rest could weaken your muscles and make them more prone to strain.

14. Take a hot bath as this may help to relieve muscle tension. If you are pregnant, avoid sitting in a hot bath for too long as this may cause birth defects.

15. When sleeping it is best to lie on your back or on your side. If you lie on your side, comfortably bend your knees and place a pillow between your legs. If lying on your back, place a pillow under your knees.

16. Listen to relaxing music and practice deep breathing exercises. Back pain can be the result of tight muscles due to emotional stress. By taking slow deep breathes and listening to relaxing music, you may soon find yourself feeling more relaxed and free from pain.

17. Invest in a lumbar support when sitting. This will ensure you maintain the correct sitting posture and prevent possible back strain.

18. If your work requires you to sit for long periods of time get up and walk around for 2 minutes every hour. This will keep your spine moving, and prevent it from stiffening up.

19. Avoid physical activity when tired. When exercising or participating in physical activity, fatigue and tiredness can contribute to injury.

20. Watch your weight. being overweight can alter the proper curvature of the spine and cause a considerable amount of stress on your lower back.

21. Eat a variety healthy foods. A poor diet can lead to inflammation of your joints and hence lead to pain. (one of the newsletters tells you why)

As you can see, there are a number of different remedies that can help you overcome discomforts in your back. Remember, your back ache may be due to a problem with your spine. While many of these remedies help relieve you of pain and minimise back pain, only Chiropractic care can correct your back problem which is causing you your pain.

Scoliosis - The Crooked Spine and You

Scoliosis and Kyphoscoliosis

Scoliosis or Kyphoscoliosis is an abnormal alignment of the spine which can be seen in most age groups. The incidence of idiopathic scoliosis of more than 10 degrees are estimated to occure in 2-3% of children younger than 16 years old, and fewer than 10% of children with curves greater than 10 degree will require treatment. For scoliosis in adolescents, it is more common in girls, and tends to progress during the child's growth spurts. Once growth stops, one can expect a curve less than 40% to also stop advancing.

An example of kyphoscoliosis which is an abnormal forward (kyphosis) alignment of the spine would be a teenagers with Scheuermann Kyphosis (round back deformity of the upper back), or the elderly with progressive degenerative changes of the lumbar spine that has resulted in a loss of normal balance and posture.

This abnormal musculoskeletal alignment of the spine has an elusive cause in teenagers thus the name Idiopathic scoliosis. In our elderly population, it is typically related to the naturally progressive degenerative (arthritic) process, while those of us who are middle age may have a blend of both processes noted above consistent with a pre-existing idiopathic scoliosis which has now started to show signs of aging.

Classification
Scoliosis is classified into a number of different categories which helps to predict patient prognosis, and treatment. These categories are based in part on the underlying disease process which may have influenced the cause, presents, or progression of the abnormal spinal curvature. The most common types of scoliosis include:

繚 Idiopathic Scoliosis
繚 Degenerative Scoliosis
繚 Neuromuscular Scoliosis
繚 Congenital Scoliosis
繚 Post-Traumatic Scoliosis

Treatment for Scoliosis
The treatment options available to patients with scoliosis depends on a number of factors which include but is not limited to scoliosis magnitude, the presents of active scoliosis progression, age of the patient, other symptoms such as back pain or leg pain, spine specific diagnosis such as stenosis, tumor, infections, herniated discs, degenerative arthritis, and finally the presents of other non-spine related conditions which may impact the patient's ability to undergo surgery such as cardiac, renal, or pulmonary disease. The treatment options for scoliosis are very simple and can be summarized into three basic options.

繚 Observation
繚 Bracing
繚 Surgery

Most patients with scoliosis can be observed and will not require surgery. Bracing is only indicated for the young skeletally immature patient who is actively growing with a high risk curve for progression. Decisions on bracing are made by your orthopedic surgeon based on your child's skeletal maturity, scoliosis magnitude, and location of the curves. The length of time in the brace will vary based on a number of parameters noted above. Bracing is not indicated in adults for the treatment of their curve but can be used for pain control for their degenerative arthropathy.

Not all surgeons who do spine work are trained to treat scoliosis and the vast majority of Scoliosis Surgeons are Orthopedic Surgeons who obtained additional training during their residency and completed a separate Orthopedic spine fellowship with particular attention on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with any of the above noted types of scoliosis.

Idiopathic Scoliosis
Previous scientific studies on idiopathic scoliosis painted a grim picture for those with scoliosis, often perpetuating the misconception that idiopathic scoliosis in children lead to disability as an adult from back pain and cardiopulmonary problems. The shortcomings of these original studies have been exposed as they often included more severe types of scoliosis (neuromuscular, congenital, etc) which carry an often more dramatic natural history and prognosis. The reality is that scoliosis in general does not predict future problems and only those rare scoliosis curves that progress if left untreated will lead to future issues. It is therefore very important that anyone who is suspected of having scoliosis be evaluated carefully by an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon. Prompt diagnosis, serial observation over a period of years, and timely treatment may prevent any future scoliosis related problems.

Degenerative Scoliosis
The major issue with degenerative scoliosis is the potential for progressive loss of normal posture. This can be a very disabling problem leaving the individual unable to stand up straight and maintain forward gaze (Normal horizontal line of sight), as well as a dramatic increase in oxygen and energy requirements. This increase in energy requirements by the patient increases almost on a linear basis with the larger the kyphosis magnitude. Stephen Ondra published in the Spine Journal in 2007 that patients with a 25 degree forward posture should expect a 25% increase in energy requirements and those patients with a 50 degree forward posture would see a 60% increase in energy demands just to walk and maintain normal activities of daily living. Having a forward posture like the woman demonstrated here is very disabling. Surgery for these patients will often reduce suffering and improve life style by allowing the individual to return to many activities of daily living that the rest of us take for granted. The vast majority of patients undergoing this extensive surgery to treat their degenerative kyphoscoliosis are very happy with their results.

If you or a family member has scoliosis or is suffering from other spine conditions in the setting of scoliosis, a baseline examination with radiographs is important and will be followed with serial examination to watch for progression of the scoliosis in an effort to prevent future disability. Please contact our office if you have any further questions.

Mechanical Traction - Does It Work?

Patients suffering from lower back pain and neck pain often take the help of mechanical traction - a kind of physical therapeutic intervention - to relieve themselves of the pain and discomfort associated with sciatica, herniated discs and arthritis.

Patients with disc injuries, leg pain, neck pain and back pain are of the opinion that this form of physiotherapy is indeed highly effective. This non surgical alternative is also an effective pain curing treatment for those suffering from degenerated discs and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Various mechanical devices such as straps, halters and ropes exert pulling forces on the affected areas and longitudinally separate the lumbar and cervical spinal sections. Mechanical spinal traction of this kind helps to minimise pain symptoms associated with lumbar and cervical spinal compression.

Mechanical spinal traction increases blood flow to discs, minimises intradiscal pressure, guards your muscles, decreases sensitivity, elongates muscle tissue and creates more space for nerves in the spine - which all combine to offer relief from pain and discomfort.

This method is known as mechanical traction as it involves creating tension on the affected parts through mechanical means as opposed to manual means (performed by a physiotherapist). Usually the tension is provided by a system of weights or a machine, in conjunction with straps, sling and harness.

The machine applies mechanical pressure to pull the spine and neck away from the head, releasing and relaxing muscles and nerves. Use of muscle relaxants and heat can increase the efficacy of traction.

Cases Where Mechanical Traction Works

Patients suffering from facet joint injuries, herniated discs, disc pain, peripheral nerve irritation or nerve root irritation, arthritic alteration in the vertebral column and degenerative alteration in the vertebral bones will benefit a lot from mechanical traction.

Patients who suffer from 'pinched nerve' or spinal nerve impingement will also benefit from this treatment procedure.

Usually, mechanical spinal traction is an integral part of a much bigger treatment plan, though its efficacy by itself is highly disputed. People experiencing tingling pain and numbness or muscle spasms in their necks and backs or in their lower and upper extremities will find mechanical traction highly beneficial.

Contraindications

Elderly patients in fragile condition, children, people with a history of spinal surgery, pregnant women and patients with fractures, osteoporosis, spinal instability, hyper mobility and cancer are listed as contraindications. Any systematic disease adversely affecting the spinal integrity is also listed as a contraindication.

Overall Verdict

Traction of this kind helps to improve spinal mobility and minimises pain resulting from degenerative alterations in the facet joints, nerves, discs and the vertebral column. If you are experiencing great discomfort and pain in the lower back region or in the neck area, you will find relief through traction therapy.

Doctors, chiropractors, orthopaedic surgeons and physiotherapists are divided over the issue of how effective mechanical traction actually is in relieving lower back pain, neck pain and sciatica. But almost all patients unanimously agree that traction physiotherapy offers immense pain relief on a temporary basis, even if for a short period of time.

Well there we are, that is about all I can think of as relevant and I am hopeful that this information has been of some value to you.

Contraindications of Chiropractic Manipulation Under Anesthesia

According to the latest statistics, musculoskeletal injuries are the most common form of injuries seen in individuals of all age groups. While choosing a therapy whether surgical, medical or alternative medicine; the need is to choose a therapy that is cost-effective, economical and suitable for the injury. Chiropractic manipulation is helpful in a number of cases. Chiropractors are registered healthcare professionals who can identify, diagnose and treat injuries or pathology involving neuromuscular tissues.

Chiropractic procedures are generally safe but if spinal manipulation has to be performed, it is recommended to opt for manipulation under anesthesia considering the severity of pain and discomfort during procedure. However, it is a matter of personal choice and most patients who opt for spinal manipulation under anesthesia must have undertaken at least 6 to 8 sessions of non-manipulative chiropractic management to make the final choice.

In some circumstances, spinal manipulation has to be performed under anesthesia for better muscle control. The benefits of using anesthesia under spinal manipulation are many. Spinal manipulation under anesthesia is mostly performed in patients with chronic fibrosis or repeated back surgeries that lead to scar formation and result in an overall decreased spinal range of movement. Using anesthesia in these patients improves the muscular motion by shutting off spasmodic muscular pain giving a higher degree of liberty to the chiropractor to perform manipulation. It is also performed in chronic nerve entrapment syndromes. Under the influence of anesthesia, inflamed and irritated nerves also get sedated that makes it easier for the chiropractor to perform spinal manipulation and it will also be easier for patient to bear the pain. Chronic torticollis and fibromyalgia are also special indications in which spinal manipulation under anesthesia is performed. Under anesthesia, the chiropractor can loosen up scar tissue and adhesions by optimal relaxation of small muscle groups. Nerve issues like pseudo-sciatica in which the nerves are sensitive and inflamed is another indication. The risk of procedure induced pain and stiffness is very high with manual manipulation unless anesthesia is used.

Manual spinal manipulation must be avoided in certain conditions where manipulation may affect the integrity of bones or may lead to a life threatening sequelae. This includes deranged bones that are weak and fragile, disorders of bone that are associated with local bone destruction (like tumor or bone abscess) and other circulatory or neurological disorders.

The contraindications of spinal manipulation under anesthesia include complicative bone disorders like tumor causing cord compression as any manipulation may distort bone and may lead to tumor lysis syndrome that may prove life threatening. Acute gouty attack or acute attack of arthritis is another contraindication for the procedure as the inflamed tissue is more sensitive to pain and post-procedure pain and discomfort may significantly alter normal daily activities. Moreover, the healing process will also be slow and impaired in inflamed tissues. Fracture of the neighboring bone is an absolute contraindication to any spinal manipulation and in any such case, the procedure should be delayed until the fracture is reduced and healed. This is because fractured bony fragments may dislodge from the site of manipulation and may affect the integrity of neighboring soft tissues. Active bone infections or the presence of abscess like state (Syphilitic arthritis, Gonorrheal arthritis) or osteopenic bone disorders like osteoporosis are an absolute contraindication for chiropractic manipulation under anesthesia due to the risk of post-procedure sepsis and risk of fractures as a result of bone fragmentation respectively. Other contraindications include uncontrolled diabetic neuropathy and similar issues.

Although chiropractic manipulation under anesthesia is a great choice in individuals who are not ideal candidates for manual spinal manipulation, certain medical and organic issues can interfere with the efficacy of therapy. It is therefore recommended to discuss your case with your healthcare provider before choosing chiropractic manipulation under anesthesia.