Every once in a while I come across a study that causes me to just stop and scratch my head. Recently, for example, I read an article about running and stretching. It was posted on MSN Health.
The study divided 2000 runners into two groups, one of which was instructed to perform about 5 minutes of stretching before running, while those in the second group were told not to stretch before running. The purpose of the study was to determine if running related injuries could be prevented through performing a simple series of stretches before jogging and running.
The interesting outcome was that it really didn't matter! The rate of injury was the same in both groups, was about 16%, with most injuries occurring in the feet, ankles, and knees.
To make things even more strange, the study found that injuries were significantly higher for those that changed their routines in order to participate in the study. In other words, injuries increased by 40% in runners that were used to stretching before a run and then had to quit stretching to participate in the study. The injury rate was 22% higher in those that went from not stretching to stretching.
The moral of the story is that everyone is different, and routines vary from person to person. As a runner, I have found that I do not like to stretch before a run. Instead, I start lightly and gradually build the intensity of the run as I warm up. If you find that you enjoy stretching before you run and exercise, by all means continue.
Keith Biggs, DC
http://www.eastmesachiropractor.com
http://therapeuticfoods.blogspot.com
Showing posts with label exercise. Show all posts
Showing posts with label exercise. Show all posts
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
National Chiropractic Health Month
October is National Chiropractic Health Month (NCHM). NCHM is a nationwide campaign sponsored by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), which recognizes chiropractic professionals as preventive care providers with expertise in optimizing health. This year's theme is "Why Weight? Get Healthy."
According to the Center for Disease Control, obesity affects more than 60 percent of all adults in the United States.
There are many things that can be done to loose weight, but the biggest step is the first. The ACA recommends taking some of these small steps:
- Follow a balanced diet - emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans
- Eat less harmful food - reduce intake of sugar, soda, fats and processed foods
- Drink plenty of water - try for several glasses a day
- Exercise regularly - aim for 20 - 30 minutes, three to four times a week
- Stay positive - the right attitude will lead to greater success
In my office, many patients have had great success through the homeopathic hCG diet. Unlike traditional hCG programs, there are no injections of high levels of the hormone hCG. Instead, smaller amounts are taken orally. One patient in particular has lost more than 40 lbs in just 4 weeks! We are so proud of him and his decision to be healthy! Whatever method of weight loss you choose, October is a great month to get started. If you need assistance in loosing weight, please contact our office. We want you to be healthier. We want you to succeed! Keith Biggs, DC www.eastmesachiropractor.com www.therapeuticfoods.blogspot.com biggschiropractic@gmail.com
According to the Center for Disease Control, obesity affects more than 60 percent of all adults in the United States.
There are many things that can be done to loose weight, but the biggest step is the first. The ACA recommends taking some of these small steps:
- Follow a balanced diet - emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans
- Eat less harmful food - reduce intake of sugar, soda, fats and processed foods
- Drink plenty of water - try for several glasses a day
- Exercise regularly - aim for 20 - 30 minutes, three to four times a week
- Stay positive - the right attitude will lead to greater success
In my office, many patients have had great success through the homeopathic hCG diet. Unlike traditional hCG programs, there are no injections of high levels of the hormone hCG. Instead, smaller amounts are taken orally. One patient in particular has lost more than 40 lbs in just 4 weeks! We are so proud of him and his decision to be healthy! Whatever method of weight loss you choose, October is a great month to get started. If you need assistance in loosing weight, please contact our office. We want you to be healthier. We want you to succeed! Keith Biggs, DC www.eastmesachiropractor.com www.therapeuticfoods.blogspot.com biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Massage Helps with Immune and Endocrine Systems
Researchers in Cedars-Sinai's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences have reported people who undergo massage experience measureable changes in their body's immune and endocrine response. The following are some sections taken from an article published on the website Medical News Today.
In the study, 29 subjects received 45 minutes of Swedish massage and 24 received 45 minutes of light touch massage.
Among the study's results:
- People in the Swedish massage group experienced significant changes in lymphocytes ,(lymphocyte numbers and percentages white blood cells that play a large role in defending the body from disease.
- Swedish massage caused a large decrease (effect size -.74) in Arginine Vasopressin (AVP) a hormone believed to play a role in aggressive behavior and linked to helping cause increases in the stress hormone cortisol.
- Swedish massage caused a decrease in levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
- Swedish massage caused a notable decrease in most cytokines produced by stimulated white blood cells.
The results of this study cause me to reflect on health and wellness in general. It is always amazing to me how alternative medicine can have such a profound effect on the health and well being of individuals, all with minimal or no potential for negative side effects.
So, I have to do this. Please excuse me...
WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!
Too many of us wait for tragedy before we decide that it is time to make a change. Imagine the power in making a healthy change BEFORE any tragic event. If you desire health, start implementing some of these ideas:
1) Eat a Mediterranean diet, and supplement it with vitamins and minerals.
2) Exercise 3-4 times per week for 30 minutes.
3) Get a regular massage.
4) Get regular chiropractic adjustments.
5) Begin using some form of energy medicine, such as acupuncture, on a regular basis to PROMOTE health.
In short, stop neglecting your HEALTH. Healthy living requires some sacrifices, but the rewards are unmeasurable.
Keith Biggs, DC
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
In the study, 29 subjects received 45 minutes of Swedish massage and 24 received 45 minutes of light touch massage.
Among the study's results:
- People in the Swedish massage group experienced significant changes in lymphocytes ,(lymphocyte numbers and percentages white blood cells that play a large role in defending the body from disease.
- Swedish massage caused a large decrease (effect size -.74) in Arginine Vasopressin (AVP) a hormone believed to play a role in aggressive behavior and linked to helping cause increases in the stress hormone cortisol.
- Swedish massage caused a decrease in levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
- Swedish massage caused a notable decrease in most cytokines produced by stimulated white blood cells.
The results of this study cause me to reflect on health and wellness in general. It is always amazing to me how alternative medicine can have such a profound effect on the health and well being of individuals, all with minimal or no potential for negative side effects.
So, I have to do this. Please excuse me...
WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!
Too many of us wait for tragedy before we decide that it is time to make a change. Imagine the power in making a healthy change BEFORE any tragic event. If you desire health, start implementing some of these ideas:
1) Eat a Mediterranean diet, and supplement it with vitamins and minerals.
2) Exercise 3-4 times per week for 30 minutes.
3) Get a regular massage.
4) Get regular chiropractic adjustments.
5) Begin using some form of energy medicine, such as acupuncture, on a regular basis to PROMOTE health.
In short, stop neglecting your HEALTH. Healthy living requires some sacrifices, but the rewards are unmeasurable.
Keith Biggs, DC
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Monday, August 30, 2010
Exercise Better than NSAIDs for Chronic Lower Back Pain
A recent study in Japan shows that for chronic lower back pain, home based exercise programs are more effective than taking NSAIDS, such as Advil and Motrin.
Although the medications might be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation temporarily, they do nothing to help the condition generally, and in fact, actually cause further damage and degenerative changes to cartilage over time with usage.
Exercises, when performed regularly at home, were shown to be more effective in reducing pain and improving core stability. The side effect of exercise, in contrast to the side effects of medicating for pain, is good health.
The key is stick with it. The study was conducted over a one year period of time.
If you suffer from chronic lower back pain, these tips could help:
1) Eat healthy! Avoid fatty foods and foods that are high in refined carbohydrates. Add a multi-vitamin and fish oils to your diet.
2) Visit your chiropractor, and get adjusted regularly. Proper movement and alignment of the spine is essential for good spinal health.
3) Learn some good home exercises, and DO THEM every day. Here is a link for some exercises to get you started: http://eastmesachiropractor.com/index.php?p=97781
4) Get out and into the sun for at least 15 minutes every day to improve your outlook and improve your health.
Lower back pain can be debilitating, but it doesn't have to be! Be proactive, and take the least amount of medications you absolutely have to. Try the steps listed above, and when you find what works, stick with it, making it a part of your life.
Keith Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Although the medications might be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation temporarily, they do nothing to help the condition generally, and in fact, actually cause further damage and degenerative changes to cartilage over time with usage.
Exercises, when performed regularly at home, were shown to be more effective in reducing pain and improving core stability. The side effect of exercise, in contrast to the side effects of medicating for pain, is good health.
The key is stick with it. The study was conducted over a one year period of time.
If you suffer from chronic lower back pain, these tips could help:
1) Eat healthy! Avoid fatty foods and foods that are high in refined carbohydrates. Add a multi-vitamin and fish oils to your diet.
2) Visit your chiropractor, and get adjusted regularly. Proper movement and alignment of the spine is essential for good spinal health.
3) Learn some good home exercises, and DO THEM every day. Here is a link for some exercises to get you started: http://eastmesachiropractor.com/index.php?p=97781
4) Get out and into the sun for at least 15 minutes every day to improve your outlook and improve your health.
Lower back pain can be debilitating, but it doesn't have to be! Be proactive, and take the least amount of medications you absolutely have to. Try the steps listed above, and when you find what works, stick with it, making it a part of your life.
Keith Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Health in a Bottle
I recently watched a movie called "Food Matters". I enjoyed it very much, and it caused me to think. I would highly recommend it to everyone, and it is easily obtained through a Netflix account.
The movie talks about how we, as a society of people, are killing ourselves through our choices of foods. The old adage "you are what you eat" is brought painfully clear. To keep it simple, we have a tendency to eat trash. Yes, I said trash. What I am referring to is the typical western diet that consists primarily of high calorie/low nutrient content foods.
Trash foods are processed, consist of high levels of chemicals, contain refined carbohydrates (sugars and starches), and are high in saturated fats (fried foods, lard, butter, etc.)
Think logically for just a moment.
Man was not designed to subsist on such a diet. Period. Think of early man (Adam and Eve for those that believe in God, or evolutionary predecessors for those that are atheists). What do you think they ate? Corn flakes, Big Macs, Fries, soft drinks? How about chicken-fried stake? I know, it was probably cookies, cakes, and doughnuts.
Yes, I am being sarcastic. But the point of the matter is that your body and mine were not designed for the foods/fuels that we now feed them. So, what did early man eat? How about plants, nuts, seeds, fruits, fish, and other forms of meats that could be caught and killed. We would typically call our ancestors hunters and gatherers, and I don't mean the kind that hunt down the nearest In-and-out Hamburger joint for a double-double, fries, and drink.
The processed, carbohydrate, and fat heavy diet that we now eat is far from healthy, and it is killing us. This type of diet causes the most common killers of mankind. Let me name a few: Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes. This bad diet also contributes to the pain and inflammation of arthritis, fibromyalgia, muscle pain. What about digestive diseases like irritable bowel syndrome, gastric reflux disease, and ulcers?
I like to call these diseases "diseases of choice". We choose to get them. We do this by eating garbage and avoiding exercise. Once we have these diseases, we turn to medications (other man-made chemicals) with the promise of health.
Doesn't this sound absurd? Foreign man-made chemicals (bad foods) cause our diseases, and then we look for man-made chemical (medicines) to cure the diseases. It might hurt you to finally hear this, but health is not found in a bottle of pills. It never was, and it never will be. Health is found through healthy living habits, and the one that is violated over and over again is the human diet.
Here are some healthy ideas about foods:
1) Make at least 50% of all your foods raw. Please note that I said raw and not lightly steamed. This includes whole fruits, vegetables, plants, salads, etc.
2) Simplify your proteins. Eat broiled fish, skinless broiled chicken, turkey. Avoid processed meats like sausage, lunch meats, hot dogs, etc. Other red meats can be used, but do so sparingly.
3) When in the supermarket, stay in the outside isles. Most of the processed foods are in the inner part of the stores.
4) Get rid of the creamy salad dressings! Use olive oil based dressings. They contain essential fatty acids that are actually healthy for your heart!
5) Stop using rice, potatoes, breads, and pastas as the main dishes. In our western diet we use many of these as fillers. They are cheap, easily produced, and they fill us up. They are also simple sugars. They make our cholesterol go up, along with our weight.
Take a look at the food pyramid diagram above. It is for the Mediterranean Diet, and I believe that this is a healthy place to start, although I would recommend ONLY whole grains, and to avoid too many breads in general. For some, these suggestions will cause monumental changes to how you shop for and eat foods. For others, the changes will be less dramatic. Whatever the case may be, take steps in the right direction. Don't be discouraged if you fall off the healthy food bandwagon from time to time. Any changes you can make in the right direction can have positive benefits on your health. When combined with chiropractic adjustments, holistic acupuncture, massage, and regular exercise, the results can be very dynamic. You are responsible for your health, so make some healthy choices regarding food, and stop looking for health in a pill bottle.
--
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
The movie talks about how we, as a society of people, are killing ourselves through our choices of foods. The old adage "you are what you eat" is brought painfully clear. To keep it simple, we have a tendency to eat trash. Yes, I said trash. What I am referring to is the typical western diet that consists primarily of high calorie/low nutrient content foods.
Trash foods are processed, consist of high levels of chemicals, contain refined carbohydrates (sugars and starches), and are high in saturated fats (fried foods, lard, butter, etc.)
Think logically for just a moment.
Man was not designed to subsist on such a diet. Period. Think of early man (Adam and Eve for those that believe in God, or evolutionary predecessors for those that are atheists). What do you think they ate? Corn flakes, Big Macs, Fries, soft drinks? How about chicken-fried stake? I know, it was probably cookies, cakes, and doughnuts.
Yes, I am being sarcastic. But the point of the matter is that your body and mine were not designed for the foods/fuels that we now feed them. So, what did early man eat? How about plants, nuts, seeds, fruits, fish, and other forms of meats that could be caught and killed. We would typically call our ancestors hunters and gatherers, and I don't mean the kind that hunt down the nearest In-and-out Hamburger joint for a double-double, fries, and drink.
The processed, carbohydrate, and fat heavy diet that we now eat is far from healthy, and it is killing us. This type of diet causes the most common killers of mankind. Let me name a few: Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes. This bad diet also contributes to the pain and inflammation of arthritis, fibromyalgia, muscle pain. What about digestive diseases like irritable bowel syndrome, gastric reflux disease, and ulcers?
I like to call these diseases "diseases of choice". We choose to get them. We do this by eating garbage and avoiding exercise. Once we have these diseases, we turn to medications (other man-made chemicals) with the promise of health.
Doesn't this sound absurd? Foreign man-made chemicals (bad foods) cause our diseases, and then we look for man-made chemical (medicines) to cure the diseases. It might hurt you to finally hear this, but health is not found in a bottle of pills. It never was, and it never will be. Health is found through healthy living habits, and the one that is violated over and over again is the human diet.
Here are some healthy ideas about foods:
1) Make at least 50% of all your foods raw. Please note that I said raw and not lightly steamed. This includes whole fruits, vegetables, plants, salads, etc.
2) Simplify your proteins. Eat broiled fish, skinless broiled chicken, turkey. Avoid processed meats like sausage, lunch meats, hot dogs, etc. Other red meats can be used, but do so sparingly.
3) When in the supermarket, stay in the outside isles. Most of the processed foods are in the inner part of the stores.
4) Get rid of the creamy salad dressings! Use olive oil based dressings. They contain essential fatty acids that are actually healthy for your heart!
5) Stop using rice, potatoes, breads, and pastas as the main dishes. In our western diet we use many of these as fillers. They are cheap, easily produced, and they fill us up. They are also simple sugars. They make our cholesterol go up, along with our weight.
Take a look at the food pyramid diagram above. It is for the Mediterranean Diet, and I believe that this is a healthy place to start, although I would recommend ONLY whole grains, and to avoid too many breads in general. For some, these suggestions will cause monumental changes to how you shop for and eat foods. For others, the changes will be less dramatic. Whatever the case may be, take steps in the right direction. Don't be discouraged if you fall off the healthy food bandwagon from time to time. Any changes you can make in the right direction can have positive benefits on your health. When combined with chiropractic adjustments, holistic acupuncture, massage, and regular exercise, the results can be very dynamic. You are responsible for your health, so make some healthy choices regarding food, and stop looking for health in a pill bottle.
--
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Goodbye Mark
I have been saddened recently by the news of the passing of an old friend. We grew up together in Phoenix. We attended the same school and played at each others' houses. I moved away from the old neighborhood when I was about 10 years old, and we lost contact. Never the less, he was a significant part of my early childhood, and I will never forget him.
He died last Saturday. It was sudden... from what I have heard. Since we have not been in contact with each other for many years, all of the data that I am receiving is through my parents, who are good friends with his parents. It seems that he was not feeling very well, so his wife encouraged him to make a doctor's appointment, which he did, but he passed away before the appointment. Based on this information, I would venture to guess that he died as a result of a massive heart attack or stroke. Either way, my friend is gone, and I am left with memories of hunting horned toads, football games, and endless cowboy and Indian adventures. It feels somewhat strange to me because he and I are the same age. It saddens me to think that his life is over. 48 years is such a short time.
My friend might have been saved if he had made it to his appointment or to the hospital in time... maybe. About 1/3 of all "first time" heart attacks are fatal. They often are the result of non-symptomatic heart disease that occurs over years. On the one hand, a sudden heart attack is a simple and quick and painless end. We are all mortal, and death is just another door through which we must all pass. I choose to believe that he was taken home to his loving and kind Father in Heaven. On the other hand, Mark's death takes from us a friend, brother, father, and husband. His early passing in life is a true tragedy. We that are left behind are the ones that will mourn.
As I said earlier, I am 48 years old. I am at the age when heart attacks are a significant risk. My friend's death could have been mine. Instead, his passing gives me a renewed sense of opportunity and urgency in my life. You see, as a physician, I am aware of many of the risk factors that can lead to heart disease. I know that a diet full of fried foods, butter, bread, sugar, pastries, candy, ice cream, sodas, red meats, and salt, among other things, will lead to cardiovascular disease. I know that a lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle puts me and everyone else at greater risk. I know that smoking and alcohol consumption greatly increase our risks for heart disease. I know that a Mediterranean style diet, vitamin supplements, and regular exercise can help to prevent cardiovascular disease. I have been blessed with a wonderful education and many years of clinical experience. Please don't misunderstand. I do not imply that Mark lived an unhealthy lifestyle. I don't know if my friend practiced a healthy habits or not. This is one thing that I will never know.
But two very important things that I know is that: 1) My heart aches for Mark and his family, and 2) that in spite of my education and all the information that I have regarding health, diet, and disease, I am just like you. I don't apply my knowledge. At least, I haven't in the past. Sure, I don't smoke and I don't drink, but I also don't eat right. I justify myself by saying that I might as well enjoy my meals. I rationalize that "it will never happen to me." My friend has, in a very real way, just reminded me of the truth. It can happen to me, and if I don't wake up and change my life style, I am placing myself at significant risk. These are the cold and hard facts.
In memory of my friend, I vow to make changes in my own life. I promise to renew my efforts in educating my patients about the real risks that they are taking. I will miss my friend, but to him, I am thankful. Thanks for the fun games, for the play time, and for being part of the "wonder years". Thank you for the very real lesson of life and mortality. I will do better. I owe it to my wife, my kids, my grand-daughter, and my patients. Goodbye Mark. Thanks for the memories.
Keith Biggs, DC
He died last Saturday. It was sudden... from what I have heard. Since we have not been in contact with each other for many years, all of the data that I am receiving is through my parents, who are good friends with his parents. It seems that he was not feeling very well, so his wife encouraged him to make a doctor's appointment, which he did, but he passed away before the appointment. Based on this information, I would venture to guess that he died as a result of a massive heart attack or stroke. Either way, my friend is gone, and I am left with memories of hunting horned toads, football games, and endless cowboy and Indian adventures. It feels somewhat strange to me because he and I are the same age. It saddens me to think that his life is over. 48 years is such a short time.
My friend might have been saved if he had made it to his appointment or to the hospital in time... maybe. About 1/3 of all "first time" heart attacks are fatal. They often are the result of non-symptomatic heart disease that occurs over years. On the one hand, a sudden heart attack is a simple and quick and painless end. We are all mortal, and death is just another door through which we must all pass. I choose to believe that he was taken home to his loving and kind Father in Heaven. On the other hand, Mark's death takes from us a friend, brother, father, and husband. His early passing in life is a true tragedy. We that are left behind are the ones that will mourn.
As I said earlier, I am 48 years old. I am at the age when heart attacks are a significant risk. My friend's death could have been mine. Instead, his passing gives me a renewed sense of opportunity and urgency in my life. You see, as a physician, I am aware of many of the risk factors that can lead to heart disease. I know that a diet full of fried foods, butter, bread, sugar, pastries, candy, ice cream, sodas, red meats, and salt, among other things, will lead to cardiovascular disease. I know that a lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle puts me and everyone else at greater risk. I know that smoking and alcohol consumption greatly increase our risks for heart disease. I know that a Mediterranean style diet, vitamin supplements, and regular exercise can help to prevent cardiovascular disease. I have been blessed with a wonderful education and many years of clinical experience. Please don't misunderstand. I do not imply that Mark lived an unhealthy lifestyle. I don't know if my friend practiced a healthy habits or not. This is one thing that I will never know.
But two very important things that I know is that: 1) My heart aches for Mark and his family, and 2) that in spite of my education and all the information that I have regarding health, diet, and disease, I am just like you. I don't apply my knowledge. At least, I haven't in the past. Sure, I don't smoke and I don't drink, but I also don't eat right. I justify myself by saying that I might as well enjoy my meals. I rationalize that "it will never happen to me." My friend has, in a very real way, just reminded me of the truth. It can happen to me, and if I don't wake up and change my life style, I am placing myself at significant risk. These are the cold and hard facts.
In memory of my friend, I vow to make changes in my own life. I promise to renew my efforts in educating my patients about the real risks that they are taking. I will miss my friend, but to him, I am thankful. Thanks for the fun games, for the play time, and for being part of the "wonder years". Thank you for the very real lesson of life and mortality. I will do better. I owe it to my wife, my kids, my grand-daughter, and my patients. Goodbye Mark. Thanks for the memories.
Keith Biggs, DC
Monday, July 12, 2010
Diabetes Drug May Kill You
CNN has published a recent article in which they bring into question the drug Avandia. GlaxoSmithKline produces Avandia, which is used for treating diabetes. It appears that GlaxoSmithKline might be involved in somewhat of a cover-up. Avandia might be responsible for causing heart attacks in its users, and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) doesn't want you, the consumer, to know about it. GSK asserts that the drug is "safe".
Now, what is the definition of a "safe" drug? What ratio of dosages to fatalities is considered simply a statistical anomaly or an acceptable loss? At what levels do we finally determine that a drug that was thought to be a lifesaver is actually a killer? GSK, who has invested substantial amounts of money on the drug would like you to think of Avandia as safe, regardless of the risks. After all, business is business. Deaths are expected and acceptable as long as the bottom line is good...
The truth is that there is no such thing as a safe drug. All drugs are artificial chemicals that nature did not design to be used in the body. They might cause some positive physiological reactions, but they will ALL cause negative ones as well, and some reactions are deadly.
If you are using Avandia, contact your MD and consider using an alternative. Better yet, if you are a diabetic, start eating better, exercising, and loosing weight. Maybe you won't need any of the diabetic drugs. You are certainly going to be healthier either way.
Keith Biggs, DC
eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Now, what is the definition of a "safe" drug? What ratio of dosages to fatalities is considered simply a statistical anomaly or an acceptable loss? At what levels do we finally determine that a drug that was thought to be a lifesaver is actually a killer? GSK, who has invested substantial amounts of money on the drug would like you to think of Avandia as safe, regardless of the risks. After all, business is business. Deaths are expected and acceptable as long as the bottom line is good...
The truth is that there is no such thing as a safe drug. All drugs are artificial chemicals that nature did not design to be used in the body. They might cause some positive physiological reactions, but they will ALL cause negative ones as well, and some reactions are deadly.
If you are using Avandia, contact your MD and consider using an alternative. Better yet, if you are a diabetic, start eating better, exercising, and loosing weight. Maybe you won't need any of the diabetic drugs. You are certainly going to be healthier either way.
Keith Biggs, DC
eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Breast Feeding Helps To Prevent Asthma in Children
Biggs Chiropractic & Acupuncture Web Site
Mothers who breast feed their children for 4 months or longer help to prevent asthma in their children. A recent study of 4,000 children in Sweden showed that of those that were exclusively breast fed, 12% developed asthma by the age of 8. Of the children that were not breast fed, 18 percent developed asthma.
This study confirms what nature tells us, if we would all simply listen. Now, pay attention, because I am going to simplify this for everyone so that we can all understand...
Man, no matter how educated, advanced, or intelligent he becomes, cannot produce a nutrient supplement or food replacement that is better for babies than what nature provides for them through mother's milk, period.
Life is amazing. A mother's body produces the perfect food for her baby.
The following is true also, by extrapolation. The best foods for adult humans are not genetically altered or processed. They come from simple God-given sources. The closer that we stick to nature in our eating habits, the better off we all are.
Lets go one step further. Your own body is its own best healer. Health and wellness is not the result of a man made medication. Medications are manufactured for the treatment of human beings when health fails, but medications fail to restore health. At best, they help to control an acute situation or to manage a chronic one. Health will never be found in a pharmaceutical.
Health is not the merely the absence of disease or symptoms. It is the 100% optimal function of all cells, systems, organs of the body. Chiropractic adjustments, proper nutrition, massage, whole foods, healthy relationships, work, exercise. These are what promote health.... along with mother's milk.
--
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
Mothers who breast feed their children for 4 months or longer help to prevent asthma in their children. A recent study of 4,000 children in Sweden showed that of those that were exclusively breast fed, 12% developed asthma by the age of 8. Of the children that were not breast fed, 18 percent developed asthma.
This study confirms what nature tells us, if we would all simply listen. Now, pay attention, because I am going to simplify this for everyone so that we can all understand...
Man, no matter how educated, advanced, or intelligent he becomes, cannot produce a nutrient supplement or food replacement that is better for babies than what nature provides for them through mother's milk, period.
Life is amazing. A mother's body produces the perfect food for her baby.
The following is true also, by extrapolation. The best foods for adult humans are not genetically altered or processed. They come from simple God-given sources. The closer that we stick to nature in our eating habits, the better off we all are.
Lets go one step further. Your own body is its own best healer. Health and wellness is not the result of a man made medication. Medications are manufactured for the treatment of human beings when health fails, but medications fail to restore health. At best, they help to control an acute situation or to manage a chronic one. Health will never be found in a pharmaceutical.
Health is not the merely the absence of disease or symptoms. It is the 100% optimal function of all cells, systems, organs of the body. Chiropractic adjustments, proper nutrition, massage, whole foods, healthy relationships, work, exercise. These are what promote health.... along with mother's milk.
--
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Live 12 Years Longer
A recent study at the University of Oslo took a look at nearly 5000 British adults. They compared the life span of those that committed 4 common health bad habits to those that did not. The four bad habits are Smoking, Drinking too much, Poor diet, and Inactivity.
On the average, those that did not smoke, drank less, exercised 2 or more hours per week, and included three or more servings of fruits and vegetables lived 12 years longer than their peers that had the four bad health habits.
Though not a guarantee that you will live longer if you comply with good health habits, this is another strong study that advocates a good health lifestyle.
--
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
On the average, those that did not smoke, drank less, exercised 2 or more hours per week, and included three or more servings of fruits and vegetables lived 12 years longer than their peers that had the four bad health habits.
Though not a guarantee that you will live longer if you comply with good health habits, this is another strong study that advocates a good health lifestyle.
--
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Neck Pain and Degeneration
Today I saw a patient in my chiropractic office that has experienced neck pain for quite a while. The patient has been seen before, but has always been too busy to follow through with any chiropractic treatment protocol that I recommended.
As a chiropractor, and friend, I was worried when I began to see the tell tell signs of nerve irritation during my examintion. I found a slight decrease in strength in the patients dominant arm muscles, even though sensations of touch and pressure were unaffected.
I ordered x-rays on this patient, and my fears were confirmed. Even though this patient had not suffered continuous neck pain through the years, the x-rays clearly revealed his problem. There was a significant amount of disc degeneration in lower neck. This was seen as disc space narrowing and the formation of bone spurs.
The spine houses the delicate cord, and allows channels through which delilcate nerves exit the spine and travel to all parts of the body. When wear and tear is present, the potential for serious nerve pinching increases, and the result is neck pain, muscle spasm, arm pain, headaches, and in severe cases, loss of muscle strength.
This patient waited to long. The patient ignored the early warning signs of neck pain and stiffness, rationalizing that the pain was not always present. Now, there is permanent damage in the lower neck joints.
Not all is lost. Chiropractic adjustments, decompression traction, therapy, and exercise are likely to dramatically help. First, by reducing the pain suffered by the patient, and second, by slowing the degenerative process through the restoration of normal joint function. The down side, however, is that the degeneration will gradually increase with time, and at the level present in this patient, it could not be reversed.
The moral of the story is to treat the condition early. Don't wait until the damage is irreversible.
As a chiropractor, and friend, I was worried when I began to see the tell tell signs of nerve irritation during my examintion. I found a slight decrease in strength in the patients dominant arm muscles, even though sensations of touch and pressure were unaffected.
I ordered x-rays on this patient, and my fears were confirmed. Even though this patient had not suffered continuous neck pain through the years, the x-rays clearly revealed his problem. There was a significant amount of disc degeneration in lower neck. This was seen as disc space narrowing and the formation of bone spurs.
The spine houses the delicate cord, and allows channels through which delilcate nerves exit the spine and travel to all parts of the body. When wear and tear is present, the potential for serious nerve pinching increases, and the result is neck pain, muscle spasm, arm pain, headaches, and in severe cases, loss of muscle strength.
This patient waited to long. The patient ignored the early warning signs of neck pain and stiffness, rationalizing that the pain was not always present. Now, there is permanent damage in the lower neck joints.
Not all is lost. Chiropractic adjustments, decompression traction, therapy, and exercise are likely to dramatically help. First, by reducing the pain suffered by the patient, and second, by slowing the degenerative process through the restoration of normal joint function. The down side, however, is that the degeneration will gradually increase with time, and at the level present in this patient, it could not be reversed.
The moral of the story is to treat the condition early. Don't wait until the damage is irreversible.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Study Shows Chiropractic Beneficial
A recent review showed that chiropractic care was beneficial for the treatment of lower back pain, but said that "the review found no evidence that chiropractic works significantly better than care provided by other clinicians."(see the article "Chiropractic Treatment Offers Some Relief for Early Low Back Pain")
This is probably true, since the "care provided by other clinicians" in the study included that of "massage, heat and cold, exercise, physiotherapy, analgesics, lumbar support, spinal manipulation and education." I might have lost my mind, but other than the "analgesics"(pain medications), that sounds a lot like what I do every single day in my office. Could it be that the "other clinicians" are finally coming around to the realization that back pain is best treated non-surgically and through manipulation, massage, and therapy?
The problem with this simple review is that the author never addresses the long negative effects of the therapies involved. Lets say, for argument sake, that the pain medication is just as beneficial as chiropractic adjustments for the treatment of back pain. What about the long term effects of medication vs manipulation?
It makes since to choose what works, and what doesn't harm. Chiropractic is safe. Good chiropractors will combine manipulation with massage, therapy, education, exercise training, and wellness care. All can be safely done without the negative long and short term effects of a medication.
This is probably true, since the "care provided by other clinicians" in the study included that of "massage, heat and cold, exercise, physiotherapy, analgesics, lumbar support, spinal manipulation and education." I might have lost my mind, but other than the "analgesics"(pain medications), that sounds a lot like what I do every single day in my office. Could it be that the "other clinicians" are finally coming around to the realization that back pain is best treated non-surgically and through manipulation, massage, and therapy?
The problem with this simple review is that the author never addresses the long negative effects of the therapies involved. Lets say, for argument sake, that the pain medication is just as beneficial as chiropractic adjustments for the treatment of back pain. What about the long term effects of medication vs manipulation?
It makes since to choose what works, and what doesn't harm. Chiropractic is safe. Good chiropractors will combine manipulation with massage, therapy, education, exercise training, and wellness care. All can be safely done without the negative long and short term effects of a medication.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Massage can Help Low Back Pain
A recent article out of Germany states that Massage and Acupressure can help to ease lower back pain. Although this is obvious to many of us, it is worth noting when others move out of the darkness and into the light.
According to the article, "Peter Sawicki, director of the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, an independent scientific institute that investigates the benefits and harms of medical interventions, says research suggests that classic massage, Thai massage and acupressure can relieve lower back pain that has lasts longer than several weeks. "
He further goes on to say, however, that massage is not enough. Can anyone guess what else Mr. Sawicki claims should be included in an appropriate treatment protocol?
Peter Sawicki states that "people have better pain relief and mobility if they combine massages with exercises and stretching."
It is no doubt that massage is beneficial, and that it is even better when combined with active patient stretching and exercises. As many of you are aware, even more benefits can be achieved with massage, chiropractic adjustments, and exercise.
The moral of the story: Do you exercises and stretches! If you don't have any, check my website. Many are posted there. The key is to do them every day, just like brushing your teeth.
But exercising alone, just like massage or chiropractic care alone, isn't enough. Schedule and follow through with your chiropractic spinal adjustments. Get monthly massages.
Its what the doctor orders.
According to the article, "Peter Sawicki, director of the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, an independent scientific institute that investigates the benefits and harms of medical interventions, says research suggests that classic massage, Thai massage and acupressure can relieve lower back pain that has lasts longer than several weeks. "
He further goes on to say, however, that massage is not enough. Can anyone guess what else Mr. Sawicki claims should be included in an appropriate treatment protocol?
Peter Sawicki states that "people have better pain relief and mobility if they combine massages with exercises and stretching."
It is no doubt that massage is beneficial, and that it is even better when combined with active patient stretching and exercises. As many of you are aware, even more benefits can be achieved with massage, chiropractic adjustments, and exercise.
The moral of the story: Do you exercises and stretches! If you don't have any, check my website. Many are posted there. The key is to do them every day, just like brushing your teeth.
But exercising alone, just like massage or chiropractic care alone, isn't enough. Schedule and follow through with your chiropractic spinal adjustments. Get monthly massages.
Its what the doctor orders.
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