Author Archive

2014 – February Newsletter

Posted on: February 2nd, 2014

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Cervical Disc Herniation

 Pain Interventions to Avoid

 Obesity and Discs
 Sugar and the Brain

 Muscle Pain Relief

 Brief History of Medicine

 Healthcare Technology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

February 2014

 

Snow and more snow!   Be careful driving and shoveling. Contrary to what you might think, chiropractors do not wish for snow, and its not great for business.  Be safe.

 

Looking for something fun and meaningful?  How about becoming active in the community?  I’ve been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Fairfield since moving here in 1987.  It started as a way for me to become known in town and help establish my practice. What I found was an opportunity to get involved with community fundraising and volunteerism and at the same time work and socialize with some great men and women.  Needless to say I’ve remained a member.

 

For 2014, Fairfield Kiwanis is looking to increase their membership. If you’re working (or retired) or living in town and are interested in becoming involved with a terrific international organization like Kiwanis, I’d like to invite you, as my guest, to one of our weekly lunch meetings.  Need to learn more about Kiwanis and what we do?  Simply respond to this newsletter or give me a call.  I’d love to tell you more! 

 

By the way, due for a tune up?   Use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.  Shane is awaiting your phone call.

 

 

 

Cervical Disc Herniation Eased by Chiropractic

New research shows the chiropractic can produce clinically significant reductions in pain for patients with cervical disc herniation.
 
Often patients with neck pain experience tingling, numbness, and pain emanating from their neck down the arm. These symptoms are characteristic of cervical radiculopathy or radicular pain. Cervical radiculopathy results from compression of the nerve root in the cervical spine (the part of the spine in your neck), and can cause pain to travel down the nerve pathway in the arm.
 
Disc herniation is the second most common causes of cervical radiculopathy. Unfortunately, few medical studies have analyzed the effectiveness of conservative treatments for cervical disc herniation. A team of Swiss researchers sought to fill that gap in knowledge by observing the effects of chiropractic care on patients with disc herniation in a new study.
 
The study included 50 patients with cervical disc herniation confirmed on MRI scans and orthopedic tests. The patients were treated by chiropractors who used spinal adjustments applied directly to the affected area observed on the MRI scans. After two weeks of treatment more than half of patients had significantly improved. By the three month mark, 85.7% of patients had significant improvements in pain and disability. Additionally, none of the patients experienced adverse effects as result of treatment.
 
Patients with acute pain at the start of the study (with symptoms lasting under 4 weeks) had a greater chance of recovery compared to patients with subacute/chronic pain. However, the majority of patients with of subacute/chronic pain patients (76.5%) still experienced significant improvements.
 
“This is clinically important as the chronic patients are the ones who are usually the most costly in terms of health care cause and quality-of-life disruption,” the researchers wrote.
 
These findings add to earlier research demonstrating the efficacy of chiropractic care for lumbar disc herniation and radiculopathy.  Research

 

 

Top Five Pain Interventions to Avoid

In the latest response to the call from the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation for recommendations on the most overused interventions, the American Society of Anesthesiologists has issued its list of top 5 tests and therapies that are of questionable usefulness in the field of pain medicine.
 
Of the top five interventions that doctors were advised to avoid, I’d like to highlight two of them:
 
1. In treating chronic non-cancer pain, consider multimodal therapy, including non-drug treatments, such as behavioral and physical therapies, before pharmacologic intervention. If drug therapy appears indicated, try non-opioid medication, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticonvulsants, before starting opioids.
 
2.  Avoid imaging tests, such as MRI, CT, or x-ray, for acute low back pain without specific indications. Avoid these interventions for low back pain in the first 6 weeks after pain begins if there are no specific clinical indications (eg, history of cancer with potential metastases, known aortic aneurysm, progressive neurologic deficit). Most low back pain doesn’t require imaging, and performing such tests may reveal incidental findings that divert attention and increase the risk of having unhelpful surgery.
 
 ASA’s Committee on Pain Medicine
 
 

 

 

Abdominal Obesity and Disc Degeneration

Conventional wisdom leads most to assume low back pain is due to obesity.  This study tried to determine whether there is an association between obesity and the incidence of lumbar disc degeneration in early adulthood.  The researchers looked at MRIs of 325 females and 233 males with an average age of around 21 years old.  They took measurements of obesity, like waist circumference, abdominal diameter, subcutaneous fat thickness and then looked at the incidence of disc degeneration.

 

Conclusion: They found a total of 155 (48%) females and 147 (63%) males  with disc degeneration.  After analysis, measures of abdominal obesity in MRI and waist circumference were associated with disc degeneration among the 21-year-old males, however there was no association found with females.

 

What I find most interesting, is the number of 21 year olds with disc degeneration!

 

 

How sugar affects the brain 
When you eat something loaded with sugar, your taste buds, your gut and your brain all take notice. This activation of your reward system is not unlike how bodies process addictive substances such as alcohol or nicotine — an overload of sugar spikes dopamine levels and leaves you craving more. Nicole Avena explains why sweets and treats should be enjoyed in moderation. Video
 

 

Spinal Adjustments Relieve Muscle Pain Instantly

Chiropractic adjustments can provide immediate relief for people with chronic muscle pain, according to new research.
 
Chronic muscle pain, also known as myofascial pain syndrome, affects an estimated 25% of the general population, and 85% of middle-aged people. Myofascial pain can be caused by an injury to muscle fibers, repetitive motions, or a lack of activity. Frequently patients have specific trigger points, or hyper-irritable spots of pain.
 
In a new study, 36 patients with myofascial pain were treated with either chiropractic spinal adjustments or a sham treatment. The researchers measured patients’ pressure pain threshold, or their ability to withstand pain at trigger points. Having a lower pressure pain threshold indicates more pain sensitivity and tenderness.
 
Immediately after receiving spinal adjustments, chiropractic patients had significantly improved pressure pain thresholds and reduced sensitivity compared to the control group.
 
This adds to earlier research showing that chiropractic is a safe, effective way to reduce chronic pain. If you suffer from ongoing muscle pain, chiropractic can help.
 
 

A Brief History Of Medicine

2000 B.C. — Here, eat this root.
 
1000 A.D. — That root is heathen. Say this prayer.
 
1850 A.D. — That prayer is superstition. Drink this potion.
 
1940 A.D. — That potion is snake oil. Swallow this pill.
 
1985 A.D. — That pill is ineffective. Take this antibiotic.
 
2008 A.D. — That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root.
 
 

Healthcare Technology

 

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – December Newsletter

Posted on: December 4th, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Poinsettias

 Paleo Benefits

 Doctor Doctor
 Herbal Supplements

 Flu Fighting Foods

 Prostate Exam

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

December 2013

 

As I write this the weather forecast is for snow and sleet starting tonight into tomorrow.  It’s beginning to feel like Christmas and with this year’s late Thanksgiving, it’s coming fast.  I hope you take time to enjoy this holiday season with your family and friends.  Keeping in mind that Black Fridays, Cyber Mondays and the media hype about retail sales is not healthy, I want to make your holiday easier. You can take me off your Christmas list.  Now that’s a relief isn’t it?

 

I wish you all a very healthy and happy holiday and new year!

 

Due for a tune up?  I miss your bones.  Use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.  

 

 

 

Deadline for Kiwanis Poinsettias Orders

This is your last chance to place an order for delivery on 12/14 and help out the Fairfield Kiwanis at the same time.   These are large plants in a foil wrapped pot that come in red, white or pink.   Plants are $25 each and we will deliver to your home or business if you order 5 or more. Order Form

 

***Due to issues with last year’s quality we have changed our supplier.  We are confident this year’s plants will be what you and I have been used to in the past.

 

UPDATE:  This year’s plants are the high quality we have come to expect!!

 

 

Paleo Type Diet Beneficial for Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Diabetics

Here’s a study comparing the effects of a Paleolithic (‘Old Stone Age’) diet and a diabetes diet as generally recommended on risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes not treated with insulin.
 
In this study, 13 patients with type 2 diabetes, 3 women and 10 men, were instructed to eat a Paleolithic diet based on lean meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, root vegetables, eggs and nuts; and a Diabetes diet designed in accordance with dietary guidelines during two consecutive 3-month periods. 
 
Results
 
The participants had on average a diabetes duration of 9 years and were usually treated with medication.  Compared to the diabetes diet, the Paleolithic diet resulted in lower values of HbA1c, triglycerides, diastolic blood pressure, weight, BMI and waist circumference, and higher HDL cholesterol .
 
The Paleolithic diet was mainly lower in cereals and dairy products, and higher in fruits, vegetables, meat and eggs, as compared with the Diabetes diet. Further, the Paleolithic diet was lower in total energy, energy density, carbohydrate, dietary glycemic load, saturated fatty acids and calcium, and higher in unsaturated fatty acids, dietary cholesterol and several vitamins. 
 
Over a 3-month study period, a Paleolithic diet improved glycemic control and several cardiovascular risk factors compared to a Diabetes diet in patients with type 2 diabetes.
 
 

Doctor Doctor Give Me The News

Here is a video of everything you need to know about cardiovascular disease risk prevention put into one song. You will have to pay close attention!  The lyrics are printed below the video just in case.   Video

 

 

Herbal Supplements: Buyer Beware 
Here is a disturbing report about the quality of herbal supplements.  It seems that a large percentage of supplements tested in a recent Canadian study revealed that the active ingredient was either significantly less than the label stated or it was completely missing and replaced with a filler.  Study
 
I have used two main supplement suppliers.  Pure Encapsulations and Thorne Research.  I’ve used both companies for one main reason, they have been leaders in quality control and independent assays of their products.
 
 

Oh my. I love this one

 

Three Natural Foods To Fight The Flu

1. Raw garlic
Garlic is considered a powerful flu fighter. Garlic contains compounds called allion and allicin, which have direct antiviral effects. A good way to get some garlic in your daily meals is by incorporating it into your recipes. You can also buy supplements to swallow whole as a boost.
 
2. Spices
Using some spices such as turmeric, cloves and cinnamon can beat the flu even before it starts. These spices are packed with antioxidants, which help improve the function of the immune system. Try pouring some cinnamon on your holiday tea and coffee. You can also enjoy turmeric on some of your favorite dishes.
 
3. Berries
All berries have high concentrations of antioxidants to help fight off flu viruses. Blueberries were found to have more antioxidants than 40 other fruits and vegetables. Try eating a handful of raw berries every day to help you stay healthy during the flu season. You can also use these in smoothies and salads.
Wellness report
 
 

November Sweeps Prostacular

Stephen Cobert gets in on all the excitement with his own on-air health exam.  Prostacular!

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – November Newsletter

Posted on: November 2nd, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Poinsettias

 Heart Disease

 Chiros in Hospitals
 Practice

 Hold off the MRI

 Coffee and Tea

 Rocker Bottom Shoes

 Puddles the Clown

 

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

November 2013

 

It’s officially the holiday season.  I was just in Home Depot and could not help but admire the Christmas trees and music!  I’m doing my part with my annual Poinsettia appeal (see below).

 

Thank you everyone for embracing our new electronic records system.  I never get tired of hearing how much you all enjoy the electronic sign in!  I promise to make it as easy as possible. For those of us of a certain age, be sure to bring your glasses.

 

Due for a tune up?  I miss your bones.  Use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.  

 

 

 

Add Some Holiday Color and Help Kiwanis

It’s time once again for me to make my annual appeal to all you good folks to consider placing an order for poinsettia plants for delivery on 11/30 and 12/14.  These are large plants in a gold foil wrapped pot that come in red, white or pink.   Plants are $25 each and we will deliver to your home or business if you order 5 or more. Order Form

 

***Due to problem with last year’s quality we have changed our supplier.  We are confident this year’s plants will be what you and I have been used to in the past.

 

The Real Cause of Heart Disease

I have shared my views with many of you that inflammation is a primary cause of heart disease.  I’ve likely also shared my opinion about the obsession with cholesterol and the overuse of statin medications.  So here is a report from Australia’s foremost science television show, Catalyst, that does a great job of explaining and challenging the idea that saturated fat and cholesterol cause heart disease. Video
 
 
Benefits of Having Chiropractic Available 
in a Public Central Hospital 
Here is a report out of Norway recently published in the Journal of Hospital Administration.
 
Following previous reports on the co-operation between a chiropractor and a central hospital, experiences from the past five years are presented. The objective of this paper is to show that improved management of muscular and skeletal problems within a hospital setting depends on the availability of chiropractic health care as a treatment option.
 
The following pain groups were sampled: 1) sacro-lumbar dysfunction and sciatic leg symptoms, with or without joint dysfunction and sciatica; 2) myo-fascial referred pain syndromes, frequently caused by peripheral nerve entrapment; and 3) tinnitus, dizziness/vertigo, facial pain, ear plug and swallowing difficulties, frequently caused by biomechanical components. A majority of pain patients, after being subjected to traditional conservative treatment, usually over a period of several years, fail to return to work despite younger than average age.
 
The only effective procedures seem to be those of chiropractors. In order to benefit from their particular knowledge, public hospitals need to open their doors to chiropractors. For that to happen, determined hospital administrators are needed. 
 

It’s All Just Practice For What Comes Next

Video

 

For Acute Low Back Pain: Don’t Rush into an MRI   

A common scenario for those who have acute low back pain, especially if there is any leg pain, is their family doctor or general orthopedist orders an MRI within a week or so.  In my experience when a patient is in acute pain they are anxious to get an MRI.  I try to reassure them that it is better to hold off until a course of conservative care is tried for several weeks.
 
Well another study has been published in the journal Spine that showed those with work related acute low back pain either with or without radiating leg pain who got an early MRI (before 4 weeks since onset) had much longer rates of disability and, on average, $12,948 to $13,816 higher medical costs than the no-MRI groups.  
 
The theory behind the higher costs are that the MRI often leads to additional high cost medical interventions.  Most acute low back pain resolves very well in the first 4-6 weeks with conservative care.
 

Coffee and Tea Anyone?

Here’s good news for all of us coffee and tea drinkers.
 
Tea consumption, especially green tea, is associated with significantly reduced risks for stroke, diabetes and depression, and improved levels of glucose, cholesterol, abdominal obesity and blood pressure.
 
Habitual coffee consumption is associated with reduced mortality, both for all-cause and cardiovascular deaths. In addition, coffee intake is associated with lower risks of heart failure, stroke, diabetes mellitus and some cancers. Surprisingly, coffee is associated with neutral to reduced risks for both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. However, caffeine at high doses can increase anxiety, insomnia, calcium loss and possibly the risk of fractures.
 
Speaking of tea, I want to say hello to our friends at Bigelow Tea.  I was down in Charleston ,SC two weeks ago and I had the opportunity to tour their tea plantation.  Very interesting and I’m impressed that the Bigelows have not only saved, but revived America’s only tea plantation!
 

Effectiveness of Rocker Sole Shoes in Low Back Pain

One hundred fifteen people with chronic low back pain were randomized to wear rocker sole shoes or flat sole shoes for a minimum of 2 hours each day while standing and walking. The participants attended an exercise and education program once a week for 4 weeks and wore their assigned shoes during these sessions.

 

The Results: Rocker sole shoes seem to be no more beneficial than flat sole shoes in affecting disability and pain outcomes in people with chronic LBP.  Flat shoes are more beneficial for LBP aggravated by standing or walking.  

 

Many patients who have LBP standing and walking are often older and have arthritic changes like spinal stenosis.  Balance can be affected.  I would venture that flat shoes would not only be more comfortable, but more stable for those people.

 

Puddles the Sad Clown

Here is a video of Puddles the Clown just nailing a cover of Lorde’s Royals.  Sublime.  Video

 

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – September Newsletter

Posted on: September 1st, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 8 Banned Foods

 Obamacare
 Beer Goggles

 Prescription Use

  Bohemian Gravity

 

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

September 2013

 

The weather is looking good and the fall is a great time to get outside and exercise.  Take advantage of the local harvest and buy some great veggies.  September 21 and 22 is the Fairfield Kiwanis Fall Craft Fair at Town Hall Green, so if you’re looking for unique handcrafted items, lunch, fresh baked goods, mums and live music, come on over.  

 

If you’re overdue for a visit (you know who you are) then use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.  

 

 

8 Foods we eat that are banned in other countries

Ever wonder if the food industry in the US has much political influence?  Here’s a list of things that we eat that other countries don’t allow. 8 Foods
 

Obamacare explained:  

Here is a very easy to understand video that explains the changes under the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Video
 

Beauty is in the eye of the Beer Holder: Perception vs. Reality

Keep this in mind next time next time you’re out with the gang:
 
This ground breaking research examines the role of alcohol consumption on self-perceived attractiveness. Study 1, carried out in a barroom, showed that the more alcoholic drinks customers consumed, the more attractive they thought they were.
 
In Study 2, participants in a bogus taste-test study were given either an alcoholic beverage or a non-alcoholic beverage, with half of each group believing they had consumed alcohol and half believing they had not. After consuming beverages, they delivered a speech and rated how attractive, bright, original, and funny they thought they were. The speeches were videotaped and rated by 22 independent judges. Results showed that participants who thought they had consumed alcohol gave themselves more positive self-evaluations. However, ratings from independent judges showed that this boost in self-evaluation was unrelated to actual performance.
 

 

Prescription drug costs and provider checkup tool

Did you know that our small state of Connecticut spends $820 million dollars per year on prescription drugs?  How about the number one costliest drug is Lipitor?  Or, that the most prescribed drug is another cholesterol lowering drug called Simvastatin?  About 385,000 prescriptions alone last year.
 
If you want to really delve into the prescription patterns of individual states as well as individual providers, even your own doctor, here is a tool from ProPublica Provider Checkup.
 
Here are Connecticut’s top 10 most expensive drugs and their number of prescriptions per year:
 
1. LIPITOR
    Lowers high cholesterol …            $44,716,572         262,287
2 PLAVIX
    Used alone or together with…     $27,632,270         127,343
3 SEROQUEL
    Treats schizophrenia and …         $26,242,609          94,574
4 ZYPREXA
    Treats psychotic mental dis…       $25,644,807             47,427
5 ARICEPT
    Treats symptoms of Alzheime… $24,007,330              96,218
6 ABILIFY
    Treats schizophrenia, bipol…      $20,633,456             39,048
7 ADVAIR DISKUS
    Prevents symptoms of asthma.. $19,950,331             80,717
8 NEXIUM
    Treats heartburn, gastroeso…   $19,693,552               84,357
9 ACTOS
    Used together with proper d…   $15,209,015              56,502
10 OXYCONTIN
    Oxycontin is used to reliev…     $15,055,174               31,852
 
I appreciate the appropriate use of medication, but these numbers have me thinking we might have a drug problem.
 

String theory and quantum physics

I don’t pretend to understand all the references in this video, but I applaud the use of Bohemian Rhapsody to spark my curiosity.    Video

 

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – July Newsletter

Posted on: July 2nd, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Drug Deaths

 Headaches and Chiropractic
 Athletes and Ibuprofen

 Muscle Cramps

 Magic

 

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

July 2013

 

Hot enough for you?  Last month it was too much rain.  Now its the summer heat wave.  I must be getting old because I find myself talking about the the weather way too much! Stay hydrated and apply the sunblock after 15 to 20 minutes of sun.  Remember, you still need some UV rays to produce your vitamin D.

 

By the way, did anyone try that 52 clove garlic soup recipe from last month?  If so, I’d love to know how it was!

 

If you’re over due for a visit (you know who you are) then use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.  

 

 

 

 

Prescription Drug Abuse and Poisoning Deaths are Growing

Prescription opioid painkillers are responsible for more fatal overdoses in the U.S. than heroin and cocaine combined, according to a new study out of Brandeis University.
Opioid painkillers include prescription narcotics such as like Vicodin (hydrocodone), OxyContin (oxycodone), Opana (oxymorphone) and methodone.
 
Below is a presentation with some very powerful statistics from the Pew Health Group (which funded the study) that lays out the extent of the problem: Presentation
 

 

Headaches and Chiropractic  

Nine out of ten Americans suffer from headaches. Some are occasional, some frequent, some are dull and throbbing and some cause debilitating pain and nausea. What do you do when you suffer from a pounding headache? Do you grit your teeth and carry on? Lie down? Pop a pill and hope the pain goes away? If you frequently experience headaches, the American Chiropractic Association suggests the following:
 
If you spend a large amount of time in one fixed position, such as in front of a computer, take a break and stretch every 30 minutes to one hour. 
Avoid heavy exercise. Instead, try walking or low-impact aerobics.
Avoid teeth clenching. The upper teeth should never touch the lowers, expect when swallowing. 
Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to help avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches. 
 
Research shows that chiropractic can be very effective in relieving headaches caused by tension in the neck; however, patients should also be aware that some severe headaches or headaches accompanied by unusual symptoms could be indicators of a more serious condition, such as the onset of stroke. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:    
 
The sudden onset of severe headache that is more intense than any headache you have ever had in the past.
Headache that is accompanied by blurred vision, double vision, trouble swallowing or speaking, or severe dizziness.
Headache that is accompanied by numbness, tingling, weakness or clumsiness in the arm or legs. 
Headache that is worsened with lying down.
In older adults, headache in the temple area that is accompanied by a feeling of pulsations in that area.
Headache that is accompanied by confusion, disorientation or loss of consciousness.
Headache that is accompanied by fever.
Headache that is accompanied by a severe stiff neck.
Headache that is accompanied by persistent or unexplained vomiting.  
 

Ibuprofen Use by Athletes May Cause Harm

Recreational and professional athletes who take ibuprofen before and during an event to prevent pain in advance may be doing harm, experts warn.
 
The class of painkillers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs such as Aspirin and ibuprofen work to reduce inflammation from injury but also carry risks of gastrointestinal side-effects. The debate within the athletic community and among researchers is whether blocking the inflammatory process is ultimately beneficial or not.
 
A study published in the December 2012 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, found that ibuprofen aggravates injury in the small intestine, based on measurements of cell leakage in the gut lining.
 
Whether the leakage leads to pathology isn’t known and will take a longer-term study to determine.
 
Since there’s no evidence of benefit and the pain relievers are potentially doing more harm than good to the kidneys and gastrointestinal system, there’s no reason for athletes to use NSAIDs beforehand.
 

 

Causes and Treatment of Muscle Cramps

A muscle spasm is an involuntary contraction of a muscle, part of a muscle, or several muscles that usually act together. If the spasm is forceful and sustained, it becomes a cramp. Most people describe a muscle cramp as a feeling of tightness in the muscle; it’s not unusual to feel a lump of hard muscle tissue underneath the skin in the vicinity of the cramp. During a spasm or cramp, it may be painful, or even difficult, to use the affected muscle or muscle group.
 
Cramps and spasms can affect any muscle. They are most common in the calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps. Cramps in the feet, hands, arms, and lower back occur frequently, as well.
 
Many possible causes 
Some researchers believe that inadequate stretching and muscle fatigue lead to cramps. According to the University of Michigan, other possible factors include a low level of fitness, overexertion (especially in intense heat), stress, and depletion of electrolytes through excess sweating or dehydration. Certain diuretic medications can also cause cramping due to a loss of sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
 
Treatment of muscle spasms
Typically, muscle cramps require no treatment other than patience and stretching; medicines are not generally needed to treat an ordinary muscle cramp. Gentle and gradual stretching, along with massage, may ease the pain and hasten recovery.
 
When a muscle spasm or cramp is the result of an injury, applying ice packs for the first two to three days may help alleviate the pain. Spasms that last a long time may be treated with moist heat for 20 minutes several times a day.
If you tend to get muscle cramps during exercise, make sure you drink enough fluids, and, after your workout, consider a warm Epsom salt bath followed by stretching of the affected muscles. Generally, water is sufficient for rehydration; however, some may find a sports drink or juice beneficial as a means to restore their body’s electrolyte balance.
 
If your muscle cramps are associated with a specific medical condition, keep in mind that you need to address the underlying health problem for the cramps to subside.
 
Tips for Prevention
Consider altering your diet and lifestyle by incorporating the following suggestions:
  • Eliminate sugar and caffeine from the diet, and increase consumption of fiber and protein. In addition, remember to eat plenty of calcium- and magnesium- rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables, yogurt, legumes, whole grains, tofu, and Brazil nuts. High-potassium foods, including bananas, avocados, lima beans, and fish, may also be helpful.
  • Before and after you exercise, stretch muscle groups that tend to cramp.
  • Incorporate strengthening exercises into your fitness routine.
  • Avoid dehydration. To prevent dehydration, consume plenty of fluids and foods high in water such as fruits and vegetables.
  • Avoid excess sodium and soda (high in phosphoric acid), as they can leach calcium.
  • Avoid chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol, which can interfere with magnesium absorption.
  • Improve your posture. For example, you may have mid-back spasms after sitting at a computer desk for too long in an awkward position.
  • Vitamin E has been said to help minimize cramp occurrence. Although scientific studies documenting this effect are lacking, anecdotal reports are common and fairly enthusiastic. Since vitamin E is thought to have other beneficial health effects and is not toxic in usual doses, taking 400 units of vitamin E daily could be considered.

 

For Your Consideration:

Simply Magic.    Video

 

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – June Newsletter

Posted on: June 2nd, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

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IN THIS ISSUE

 Antibiotics in Food

 Garlic Soup
 Soda and Heart Attack

 Golf and Your Back

 Lumbar Stenosis

 Cheating Death

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

June 2013

 

Hope you’re enjoying the rain.  It seems that we’ve had one of the wettest Junes in recent memory.  Make sure you wear a raincoat, use an umbrella, keep dry and remember to put your headlight on when you’re driving.  During those torrential downpours, the only thing keeping me staying in my lane on the highway is your taillights!

 

If you’re over due for a visit (you know who you are) then use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.

 

 

Record High Antibiotic Sales for Meat and Poultry Production

The same antibiotics used to treat sick people are also given to healthy animals — in much greater numbers — to make them grow faster and to compensate for overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. These practices are contributing to the emergence of drug-resistant superbugs that make infections more difficult and costly to treat. In 2011, more antibiotics were sold for use in meat and poultry production than ever before. See more

 

Garlic Soup Made With 52 Cloves of Garlic

Here’s an interesting story about the antiviral and antibiotic effect of garlic and a soup recipe with 52 garlic cloves that the author proposes could ward off colds, flu and norovirus. Three things intrigue me about this.  First, how would this soup taste?  Second, how bad would my breath be?  And third, how about we load up meat and poultry production with garlic instead of antibiotics?  Pre-seasoned chicken and beef sounds pretty tasty to me. Article

 

 

Sugary Drinks Tied to More Heart Attacks 

Here’s another study that connects sugar (especially soda) with inflammation and now, heart attacks.  

 
In a study of male healthcare professionals, those who consumed the most sugary drinks — average of 6.5 per week — were 20% more likely to have a myocardial infarction (MI) during follow-up than those who never drank them. 
 
The researchers also examined the relationship between consuming sugary drinks and various inflammation biomarkers, finding an association between greater consumption and adverse effects on triglycerides, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factors 1 and 2, HDL cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), and leptin.
 
Referring to the inflammatory markers, they noted that “inflammation is a key factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease and cardiometabolic disease, and could represent an additional pathway by which sugar-sweetened beverages influence risk.”
 
Here’s a great link to the article as well as to other resources: AHA

 

Back in the Swing

The physical demands of golf are much different from what most people experience in their daily lives. Golfers should prepare their bodies for the specific physical stresses. Below are some exercises that can be done to prepare your body for tee time.
 
Endurance training – The game of golf is usually played over a three- to five-hour time period, requiring a certain level of endurance. Deadlifts and anterior reaches are good for working on endurance.
 
Joint mobility and stability – The explosive golf swing requires a high level of execution, coordination and power. Try standing with arms hanging at your sides (with or without weights) and gently leaning to one side. Repeat on the other side. 
 
Working on the trunk and shoulders – Golfers’ ability to turn their shoulders will be determined by the coordinated strength of their core and their ability to rotate through the spine. Various chopping and lifting exercises will help. 
 
Training pelvic tilt – If golfers are not conditioned properly, they will begin flexing their spine in order to address the ball, as opposed to hinging at the hip. On all fours, gently arch your back up toward the ceiling as you breathe in. On the exhale, gently push your bellybutton toward the floor and curve your back in the opposite direction, looking up toward the ceiling.

 

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis are commonly recognized by a bent-forward, shuffling posture and a characteristic small-step gait. Stenosis surgery, however, is a major procedure that is recommended only when conservative methods of care aren’t effective-or when stenosis is caused by tumors or accompanied by intolerable pain or severe neurological problems, such as loss of bowel and bladder function. Learn more about spinal stenosis, how it’s diagnosed and how it can be treated. ACA

 

Updated: Cheating Death with Dr. Steven Colbert

Sunblock.  The silent killer.”   Video

 

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – May Newsletter

Posted on: May 1st, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Bed Rest? NO.

 Glucosamine/Chondroitin
 Fish Adds Years

 Hog Farm Hypertension

 Spinal Steroid Injections

 Stymie’s the Man

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

May 2013

 

It’s a great time of year when the leaves pop out and the lawn never looks better.  I hope you’re enjoying Spring and getting a chance to get out.  I want to thank those of you who have been putting up with our new computerized sign in and my struggle with our new electronic record system.  Make sure you bring your glasses!

 

If you’re over due for a visit (you know who you are) then use this opportunity to call or go to our website to request an appointment.

 

I can’t wait to see you!

 

 

Here’s an interesting thought:

 

Ninety percent of the stimulation and nutrition to the brain is generated by the movement of the spine.”

-Dr. Roger Sperry

Nobel Prize 1981

 

Bed Rest for Your Back Pain? Not the Best Idea 

Upwards of 80 percent of adults suffer at least one episode of back pain in their lifetime, which means you’ve already felt the pain, are feeling it now or will feel it before you know it.

 
And chances are good that, like so many others, your first thought will be to get off your feet, lie down and rest. Unfortunately, evidence suggests that unless the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain radiating down the legs, rest is exactly the opposite strategy if you’re trying to relieve your back pain.
 
If you’re suffering from back pain, staying active is an important piece of advice to follow in the majority of cases. That means avoiding bed rest, prolonged stretches of sitting, standing or inactivity; and doing all the things you usually do, within reason (no heavy lifting or intense physical activity, including twisting or other dramatic movements that could make the pain worse).
 
While it may sound counter-intuitive, abundant research suggests activity can help reduce the pain and shorten recovery time in most cases of non-complicated back pain. In fact, one study that summarized findings from an international task force on back pain stated, among other findings / recommendations: 1) bed rest is contraindicated in subacute and chronic cases of low back pain; in acute cases, bed rest should neither be enforced nor prescribed; and if authorized (based on pain indication), bed rest should be for the shortest duration possible.
 
The theory is relatively simple, if you think about it: Inactivity can make your spine and back muscles tight and stiff, increasing the pain, particularly when you bend or stretch. Prolonged inactivity can also make you weaker, not to mention that evidence suggests the longer you stay in bed with pain, the more likely that your pain will become chronic / more disabling, often because you avoid moving for fear it will exacerbate the pain.
 

Of course, the first step when suffering back pain is to make a visit with a health care provider who can evaluate your pain, make sure there’s nothing more serious going on, and then offer treatment and self-care recommendations (including activity) to help relieve it. Enter your doctor of chiropractic, the experts in treating spinal pain.

 

To Your Health 3/13

 

 

Glucosamine Chondroitin: Do you know what’s in yours?

Glucosamine with chondroitin is a very popular supplement to support healthy joints. Something that most people don’t realize, though, is the amount of adulteration that is occurring with this specific supplement.
 
Unfortunately certain manufacturers, in an attempt to maximize their profit, add cheaper ingredients that are not listed on the bottle, which generally are not harmful, but you are not getting what you purchased.
 
The glucosamine portion of the supplement is relatively inexpensive, so this ingredient is rarely adulterated. The problem lies with the chondroitin sulfate portion of the supplement. This ingredient is fairly expensive, so cheaper alternatives, such as keratin sulfate and cheaper polysaccharides, are substituted to produce a less expensive supplement. Even though the ingredients are changed, the manufacturer will still claim that the product contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Many times the manufacturer will tell you that they tested the product, but use an inappropriate testing process that is not specific enough to detect any adulteration.
 
If you are truly curious about what is contained in the supplement that you are interested in, request a certificate of analysis. If the certificate of analysis doesn’t specify the testing method, move on to another company or ask for further details.
 
When purchasing glucosamine with chondroitin it’s worth every penny to not just purchase the cheapest product on the shelf. When you can ensure the quality of the product that you are purchasing is exactly what it claims to be, you can have the most confidence of attaining the desired outcome of using the product.
 
We only use Thorne, Pure Encapsulations and Traditional Nutritionals because of their high quality and third party assays.

 

 

Eat Fish, Live Longer

We all know eating fish has a number of benefits, but what if we told you it can also help you live longer? That is what many researchers have found after doing numerous studies. According to a new study, eating fish could potentially slash an older person’s risk of dying prematurely by more than a quarter, and their risk of dying from heart disease by more than a third, according to a new study from the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Washington.
 
In addition, researchers discovered that older adults with the highest blood levels of the fatty acids found in fish lived, on average, happened to find themselves living 2.2 years longer than those with lower levels.
 
Researchers have long linked the consumption of unsaturated fats in fish with a reduced risk of dying from heart disease. And the American Heart Association recommends eating fish, especially fatty fish, at least twice a week.
 
This new study has a lot of significance because now fish is being considered a key diet component for living a long time, not just avoiding heart disease. The study was published online April 1 in Annals of Internal Medicine.
 
In their study, researchers examined 16 years of data pertaining to 2,700 healthy U.S. adults aged 65 or older who participated in the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS). The researchers also analyzed the total proportion of blood omega-3 fatty acids — including three specific ones — in participants’ blood samples at baseline. After adjusting for dietary, lifestyle and other factors, they found that the fatty acids were linked with a significantly lower risk of mortality.
 
 One type in particular — docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) — was most strongly related to a 40 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease death. Of the other blood fatty acids measured — eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) — DPA was most strongly associated with lower risk of stroke death, and EPA most strongly linked with lower risk of nonfatal heart attack, according to a press release. None of these fatty acids were dramatically related to other, non-cardiovascular causes of death.
 
Overall, participants with the highest levels of all three types of fatty acids had a 27 percent lower risk of total mortality due to all causes.
 
The types of fish that contain high levels of omega-3 include mackerel, trout, tuna, salmon, herring, sardines and anchovies. Make sure to get a few of these in your diet and reap the benefits of having a few extra years of life.

 

 

Smelly Hog Farms May Raise Neighbors’ BP

Exposure to bad smells emanating from industrial swine farms may acutely increase blood pressure among residents in nearby communities, researchers found.

 

On a nine-point scale, each additional unit of hog odor was associated with increases of 0.23 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure and 0.10 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure, according to Steve Wing, PhD, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and colleagues.
 

Odorant pollution could also produce other changes in a person’s environment that cause acute changes in blood pressure; for example, irritability of a household member,” they wrote.  Ya think?

 

When I take blood pressures I will be asking about hog farm proximity from now on.  Fairfield County has a ton of them.

 

 

Spinal Steroids Diminish BMD in Older Women

A single epidural steroid injection led to a significant decrease in hip bone mineral density (BMD) among postmenopausal women, an observational study found.
 
These findings suggested that there could be a six-fold rise in annual bone loss at the hip among women receiving the injections, they noted.
 
They urged greater caution in the use of this treatment in patients at risk for fracture, and recommended the adoption of bone-protective measures such as exercise and increased intake of calcium and vitamin D.
 
 

Stymie gives it a twist

“Gee you cured me!”    “Awww that’s nothin’!”    Here

Thanks to Brian O.

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

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2013 – February Newsletter

Posted on: February 3rd, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Massive Disc Herniation

 Salt and Blood Pressure
 Flaxseed and Blood Pressure

 Tennis Elbow and Cortisone

 Size Matters

 David Lee Roth

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

February 2013

 

As I write this, the snow is falling and it appears that we will not get through this winter unscathed.  I’m often asked if I see more back injuries in the winter due to snow shoveling. I’ll see a few, but what causes the most are slips and falls on ice.  So be careful out there!

 

Update: Well we finally dug out and while my back and shoulders feel tired, my hands are aching from shoveling and gripping the snow blower.  Oh the irony of a chiropractor with sore hands.  Not good!

 

Massive Disc Herniations: Conservative Care 

In my experience, patients are understandably worried when, based on exam and MRI findings, I diagnose a disc herniation in the lower back.  I always try to keep things in perspective and reassure that surgery is not a given.  The natural history of a lumbar disc herniations is not fully known and several studies have shown that the largest discs appear to have the greatest tendency to resolve with conservative care.  Here is a study that investigated whether massive prolapsed discs can be safely managed conservatively once clinical improvement has occurred.

 

The results found it safe to adopt a ‘wait-and-watch’ policy for cases of massive disc herniation if there is any early sign of clinical improvement.  Where clinical progress is evident, 83% of cases of massive disc herniation will have sustained improvement.  Only 17% of cases will have recurring crises of back pain and sciatica.  If there is evidence of clinical improvement, massive disc prolapses do not appear to carry a risk of major nerve damage.  Massive disc herniations usually reduce in volume and by 6 months most are only a third of their original size. Study

 

 

Scant Evidence that Salt Raises Blood Pressure

Ready to slay some sacred cows?  It has long been taken as fact that salt intake is a major cause of high blood pressure. Recent reviews of the medical literature have raised the question; is salt restriction for high BP effective?  Well it seems that the connection is rather weak.  Many studies have failed to demonstrate a benefit and the researchers in this article  noted a disservice to patients when outdated guidelines are not regularly challenged and adapted when the evidence contradicts conventional wisdom.  

 

By far the major source of sodium in our diets is from processed foods.  Interestingly, those new to low carb diets who avoid processed foods,  may even develop muscle cramps due to lack of sodium.  The reality is that fear of salt is not justified. Read more

 

 

Impressive Lowering of Blood Pressure with Flaxseed 

Adding flaxseed to the diets of patients with peripheral arterial disease resulted in large drops in blood pressure of around 10 mm Hg systolic and 7 mm Hg diastolic after six months, according to the results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.


“This reduction after administration of dietary flaxseed is the largest decrease in BP ever shown by any dietary intervention,” said Dr Delfin Rodriguez (University Hospital Holguin, Cuba) speaking at the American Heart Association 2012 Scientific Sessions. Such reductions would be expected to result in around a 50% fall in the incidence of stroke and a 30% reduction in heart attack.

The researchers chose to study flaxseed because animal studies have shown it has antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antiarrhythmic effects and may reduce circulating cholesterol and trans-fatty acid levels.

They randomized 110 patients to milled flaxseed (30 g/day) in the form of bagels, muffins, and buns (n=58) or placebo products (n=52), made from wheat with a similar flavor.

The results out to one year are in the process of being analyzed and will be presented at a future date.  Stay tuned.

 

 

Tennis Elbow Therapies Fail in Trial

One of the more difficult injuries I treat is lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow.  From the outset I prepare patients for the inordinate amount of time and treatment that’s typically required for a relatively  benign injury.  So what about steroid injections?

 

Here’s a report about a trial that evaluated the relative value of corticosteroid injection, physiotherapy or the combination of the two in the treatment of patients with lateral epicondylalgia.
 

The conclusion was that the use of corticosteroid injection versus placebo injection resulted in worse clinical outcomes after 1 year, and physiotherapy did not result in any significant differences. Read the article here: Elbow Shot?  

 

 

Size Matters!

Portion sizes leads to overeating, so here is a rather simple solution.   Smaller plates.  Consider this: As the American people have grown more obese, there is a direct correlation to the size of the dinner plates. 
 
1963 9 inch
1974 9.5 inch
1988 10 inch
1992 10.5 inch
2000 11 inch
2004 12 inch
 
Everything is super-sized.  Even our dinner plates.  Cornell University has studied the effect of plate size and portions and found that smaller plates lead to smaller portions.  In fact when people used a 10″ plate rather than a 12″ one, they typically reduced their portion size by close to 25 percent. Why?  Because we tend to eat more with our eyes than our stomachs.  Check out this video interview with Brian Wansink author of the book, Mindless Eating.
 
Here’s a link to the small plate movement.
 
 

David Lee Roth

I’m a fan of Diamond Dave and I cannot help but smile when I click all over here.  Thanks to Mat O.

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2013 – January Newsletter

Posted on: January 2nd, 2013

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here             

 

Please like us on Facebook  

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 New Year Thoughts

 Chiropractic First
 Flu Shot?

 Oregon Guidelines

 Infant Colic

 Isle of Mann TT

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

January 2013

 

With the New Year comes a renewed interest in taking steps toward improving and staying healthy.  I share this desire and I want to encourage you in your pursuit.  It’s my wish that you will add regular chiropractic care to your healthy lifestyle.  If it’s been a while since you’ve been in, call today and get your spine checked out.  Massage therapists Beth Shine and Jen Dolan, office manager Shane Mraz, chiropractic intern Natalia Jakucki and I look forward to seeing you in 2013!

 

New Year Thoughts

  • Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
  • If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved, and never will achieve, its full potential, that word would be “meetings.”
  • There is a very fine line between “hobby” and “mental illness.”
  • People who want to share their religious views with you never want you to share yours with them.
  • You should not confuse your career with your life.
  • Nobody cares if you can’t dance well. Just get up and dance.
  • Never lick a steak knife.
  • The most destructive force in the universe is gossip.
  • You will never find anybody who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe daylight savings time.
  • You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests that you think she’s pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at that moment.
  • There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday. That time is age eleven.
  • The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.
  • A person who is nice to you but rude to the waiter is not a nice person.  (This is very important. Pay attention. It never fails.) 
  • Your friends love you anyway.
  • Never be afraid to try something new. Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark. A large group of professionals built the Titanic.

 

Lower Chance of Surgery if Seen by Chiropractor First 

A recent study was done to identify early predictors of lumbar spine surgery within 3 years after occupational back injury.  Back injuries are the most prevalent
occupational injury in the United States. Few prospective studies have examined early predictors of spine surgery after work-related back injury. These researchers examined the early predictors of lumbar spine surgery within 3 years among Washington State workers with new worker’s compensation temporary total disability claims for back injuries.

 

They used medical bill data to determine whether participants underwent surgery, covered by the claim, within 3 years. Of the 1,885 workers, 174 (9.2%) had
a lumbar spine surgery within 3 years.  Issues associated with surgery included higher Disability Questionnaire scores, greater injury severity, and surgeon as first provider seen
for the injury
.

 

Reduced odds of surgery were observed for those under age 35, women, Hispanics, and those whose first provider was a chiropractor. 42.7% of workers who first saw a surgeon had surgery, in contrast to only 1.5% of those who saw a chiropractor.

 

The researchers concluded that there was a very strong association between surgery and first provider seen for the injury, even after adjustment for other important variables. 

 

Spine 2012 Dec 12

 

Should You Get the Flu Shot?

I apologize for not getting this out back in November.  I just found the article in one of my old folders.  This is a good piece on flu shot evidence for preventing seasonal influenza and the actual impact of seasonal influenza in different population groups.  The conclusions challenge  conventional wisdom.

 

Read the article here: Flu Shot?  Be sure to look at the links within this article.  Like this one in the NYT. 

 

 

Low Back Pain and Chiropractic

New Oregon LBP Guidelines: Try Chiropractic First 
 
The new State of Oregon Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines for the Evaluation and Management of Low Back Pain recommends spinal manipulation as the only non-pharmacological treatment for acute lower back pain. The guidelines, which have been adopted by the Oregon Health Authority, are a collaborative effort between the Center for Evidence-Based Practice, Oregon Corporation for Health Care Quality, Oregon Health and Sciences University’s Center for Evidence-based Policy, and the new Oregon Health Evidence Review Commission.
 

 

Infant Colic and Chiropractic

In this study, chiropractic manual therapy improved crying behavior in infants with colic. The findings showed that knowledge of treatment by the parent did not appear to contribute to the observed treatment effects in this study. Thus, it is unlikely that observed treatment effect is due to bias on the part of the reporting parent. Article

 

 

Isle of Man TT

What is the deadliest motor-sports race in the world?  On average, more than two competitors die each year; six were killed in 2011.  Nine people died in 2005.  What was unusual about last year’s race is that no one died.  More like Isle of Maniacs!

 

Prepare to sweat your palms:   Video

 

  Copyright © 2013 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.

2012 – November Newsletter

Posted on: November 1st, 2012

Reef Chiropractic Care            

Dr. Brian C. Baker

203.259.4939

 

To view an online version of this please click here                                

 

 

IN THIS ISSUE

 Kiwanis Poinsettias 

 Sleep Loss
 Value of Chiropractic

 Beef

 Neck Pain

 

 

 

 


INTERESTING LINKS

 

Reefchirocare

 

Deflame

 

CTChiro

 

The Paleo Diet

 

Food Politics

 

ChiroVoice

 

 

 

 

 

 EMAIL THIS TO A FRIEND

 

 

 

 

 

November 2012

 

Hurricane Sandy has made her presence felt, and it is my heartfelt hope you and your family have weathered the storm with minimal damage.  My prayers go out to those of you whose homes were affected by the flooding.  With the holiday approaching this is an especially appropriate time to be thankful for the health and well being of friends and family.

 

 

Fairfield Kiwanis Holiday Poinsettia Plant Sale

Before getting down to business, I’d like to open with a sales request.   Help out the Kiwanis Club of Fairfield with our annual holiday poinsettia fundraiser.   I’ve been a Kiwanian for the past 25 years.  This year I’m heading up the poinsettia sale and I’m counting on you. 

 

Now forget for a moment that this is a fundraiser.   These plants are simply the most incredibly lush and vibrant you will ever find. They are triple plants in one pot, wrapped in gold foil and delivered fresh from a local Connecticut grower. These are first rate florist quality and available in red, white and pink.  We’ll gladly deliver orders of 5 or more to your home or business.   We have two delivery dates; You can choose to have them on 11/24 or 12/8.   Either date, you can count on these plants remaining healthy and robust well past the holidays.

 

Now, remember what I told you to forget?  Well, forget that!  This is a fundraiser!  The Fairfield Kiwanis Club raises money for scholarships, local youth organizations and community services like the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.  Your orders are greatly appreciated!  Here’s the order form:  Poinsettia

 

Sleep Loss 

We all know that getting enough sleep is important. However many of us fail to heed this advice.  Here is some evidence that sleep is more than just feeling rested:  

 

Too many workers not sleeping enough – according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), about one third of all workers in the USA are sleeping for less than six hours each day, instead of the recommended 7 to 9 hours. People especially at risk of not getting enough sleep included those working in health care, social assistance, transportation and warehousing sectors – many of them on shift-work. Read

 

Sleep deprivation and bad food choices – Investigators from the University of California demonstrated how sleep deprivation can undermine regions in the brain which are responsible for making food choices. They explained that their findings might explain why sleep deprivation is linked to a higher risk of becoming obese. Article

 

Lack of sleep and the appeal of junk food – people who have not had enough sleep and have “tired brains” are more likely to find junk foods appealing, researchers from Columbia University in New York, revealed. Read

 

Lack of sleep and stroke risk – Normal weight adults who sleep less than six hours per night have a much greater risk of stroke symptoms during middle-to-older age than normal weight people who sleep more hours, researchers from the University of Alabama reported. Article

 

Sleep deprivation and anxiety – Scientists from the Sleep and Neuroimaging Laboratory at the University of California, Berkeley, showed that sleep deprivation considerably exaggerates how much we anticipate impending emotional events, especially among those who are already highly anxious individuals. Article

 

 

Value of Chiropractic Services

Here’s an interesting study that looked at the benefit of Chiropractic care offered at an on-site health center.  The conclusion was that implementation could reduce the financial impact and physical burden of musculoskeletal conditions.

 
Methods: A retrospective claims analysis and clinical evaluation were performed to assess the influence of on-site chiropractic services on health care utilization and outcomes.
 
Results: Patients treated off-site were significantly more likely to have physical therapy and outpatient visits.  In addition, the average total number of health care visits, x-rays and MRIs, and medication use per patient with each event were lower in the on-site chiropractic care group. Lastly, headache, neck pain, and low back pain–functional status also improved.
 

Conclusions: These results suggested that on-site chiropractic services may promote lower utilization of certain health care services, while improving musculoskeletal function.                                  JACOEM 2012

 

Here’s the Beef

I’m once again mentioning the availability of local grass fed beef to those who’ve expressed interest in eating beef with a better fat and protein profile.  While red meat consumption gets mixed health messages, most experts agree that the saturated fat content is the area of most concern.  Well, grass fed beef is naturally higher in Omega 3 fats, similar to that found in fish and it’s also much leaner than typical beef, because the animals are not fattened up on grains prior to butchering.

 

The first Thursday of every month John Morosani, of Laurel Ridge Farm, comes down to my office to deliver cuts of beef, pork and whole chickens.  He raises his own animals and has them butchered and packaged by a USDA inspected processor.  I have a standing monthly order, but John has said he would be happy to provide any amount if you’d like to give it a try.  Check out his website and give him a call and place an order. LRGFB

 

Neck Pain and Chiropractic

Here’s a great video to share with someone who is suffering from neck pain.  If they’re ready to try chiropractic, I hope you’ll encourage them to give us a call. Video

 

 

  Copyright © 2012 Reef Chiropractic Care. All Rights Reserved.