Medical News

A short overview of what headache is, and how acupuncture, more specifically an acupressure mat, can alleviate or even cure headaches.

Let’s first define a headache!

To put it simply, a headache is a pain in the head caused by a variety of causes. These can be tension, muscle contraction, circulation problems, trauma, infections, even some medications can cause headaches (particularly when they are being withdrawn)!

One common way to define headaches is to split it into three groups: tension headaches, migraines and cervicogenic.

Tension-type headaches are the most common. People who suffer this kind of headache usually have mild to moderate pain on both sides of the head. The pain is commonly described as having a “band” around head which is being inexorably tightened.

Practically everybody has experienced this type of headache at some time in their lives, and some people are more affected than others.

Migraines affect far fewer people than tension-type headaches and have a much shorter duration but the symptoms are more severe.

They are more common among women and are usually one-sided. In severe cases migraines can force the sufferer to stay in bed for days.

The last type of headache to be separately described is the “cervicogenic” type. Pain that originates from muscles in your neck or from your spine can be felt in your head.

Who suffers from headaches?

Nearly everyone will suffer a headache at some point in time. There are studies that suggest as many as 50 million Americans may be suffering from more or less chronic headaches.

What can acupuncture do for headaches?

Acupuncture has been used to treat headaches from the earliest beginnings of traditional Chinese medicine.

All different kinds of headache are relieved effectively by acupuncture. One big plus with acupuncture is that there are no side effects.

Conventional medicine does not know how acupuncture works, but there have been lots of studies that show it is effective.

The “Hedgehog Mat” uses the same basic treatment principle as acupuncture, but instead of needles it uses acupressure points.

Simply relax on the mat, and the numerous acupressure points (more than 6000), will trigger your immune system.

Since the mat is in your home you can use it at any time, no need to make appointments and take time off work.

This amazing and powerful headache cure has been developed in Sweden, based on research done in Russia and the US.

Reiki is a type of energy healing that started in Japan. You probably think of Reiki as a face to face, hand-on therapy, offering assistance with everything from stress to increasing the rate of healing after surgery. It is being used more and more by hospitals around the globe and Reiki therapy is becoming recognized as an acceptable compliment to mainstream medicine. But I’ll bet you didn’t know that Reiki practitioners to send Reiki energy to the client, in another place, even around the world, and still produce great results.

Similarly to radio and television signals, Reiki energy can be transmitted over vast distances. Unlike Radio and TV however the Reiki energy is spiritually guided, and the transmitter and receiver is most often human. Reiki can also be used to help our pets achieve a happy healthier life, or ease their passing.

Reiki, although spiritual in form, is physical energy nonetheless. As science develops, a way to measure the more mysterious elements of our world will see Reiki become more acceptable in western and eastern medicine.

The Reiki practitioner will arrange via phone or email an mutually acceptable time. At this time the client will find a place where they can relax, maybe with soothing music and lighting. The more relaxed and comfortable the recipient the more successful the results. Then over the following half and hour to an hour the practitioner broadcasts his or her healing Reiki energies to the client using the same method as they would if they were in the same room. The practioner will sometimes use a human sized doll or diagram to aid in his or her visualization of the client.

Success varies with distance healing just as in face to face sessions. Some clients report feeling as though the practitioner is in the room, or that they can feel the other persons hands on their body. These reactions depend on the depth of the connection established and the clients receptivity. Others have said they have felt warmth, or changes in temperature, see colors, feel heavy or weightless, or maybe fall asleep. Often one session is enough for the client to feel measurably better and as the body continues to heal itself, the main complaint may be gone altogether. Further treatment is often required however for more complete healing and balancing.

Time and isolation need no longer be a factor in healing others. Amazing results can be attained with distance Reiki and it can be delivered at any mutual convenient time, wherever the two people may be. As a Reiki practitioner, you must trust your own abilities, just as you trust in the Reiki energy itself.

Each and every one of us have the potential to tap this energy source for the benefit of ourselves and our loved ones.
If this interests you, please visit our website for a further study of this exciting healing treatment at http://www.learnchikara-reiki-do.com/

What is raw milk; the term is widespread in use, and likewise its definition varies. Coming from a variety of milk producing animals (cows and goats), raw milk is unpasteurized milk and comes from animals which are only fed grass and hay (in the winter months when grazing is sometimes not optional). The product goes straight from the cow cooled and bottled for distribution. As long as the equipment is clean and sterilized and the cows healthy raw milk is not dangerous. The key is these cows, and other animals, are kept in good health and have access to grass, their natural diet. Cows with other feed such as grains and in less healthy conditions can have milk which is easily contaminated and can cause sickness if consumed raw therefore many of these cows have milk which is pasteurized and therefore kills the bacteria.

The debate between these two forms of milk has gone on for generations. In the early 20th century, raw milk was the norm but had fallen out of favour due to the cost to produce it as it requires healthy cows and large pastures. Pasteurized milk on the other hand requires smaller area of space for cows with grain and no pastures. Many supporters of unpasteurized milk argue its many health benefits such as milk’s valuable nutrients which are destroyed by pasteurization and good bacteria cultures. Lactose intolerant people who have tried raw milk for the first time have, in some cases, been able to enjoy the milk and studies suggesting consuming raw milk may also aid in the prevention of childhood diseases such as asthma and allergies.

Globally, the unpasteurized milk versus pasteurized milk is hotly debated. In America over half of the fifty states allow the sale of raw milk with cow shares and in some stores. In Canada the sale of Raw Milk is prohibited but cow shares are possible and a larger legal debate is working its way through the court system. Europeans typically consume unpasteurized milk with the exception of a few countries. It is illegal to purchase raw milk for drinking purposes in Australia, but like Canada cow sharing is possible.

It is evident that there are many pros for milk that is raw. The number of supporters has been growing exponentially as people are making more informed decisions about what they are consuming. Ths should be a choice made by the consumer and not the governments. The choice and the push for legalization in places where is it available is up the consumer.

Acupuncture is clinically proven to accelerate the healing of sports injuries. Integrating Western and Eastern treatment makes the most sense and can fully restore chronic and acute injuries, in many cases. You often heal quickly, fully, and with improved performance.

Acupuncture is commonly used for:

Acute strains/spasms and sprains - an acute injury is often a sprain or strain. Sprains involve the ligaments and strains involve muscles or tendons. Besides pain, the typical inflammatory response may include swelling of the injured area, redness, purple skin discoloration, or reduced range of motion of the joint. Prolonged inflammation can cause scar tissue formation and may prevent you from re-gaining proper joint mobility. Spasms are extreme tightening of the muscles…ouch!

Chronic pain/pain management – All too often, a patient accepts his/her level of immobility and function. This causes depression. You can improve the quality of your life through acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture relieves and often eliminates many aches and pains.

Strengthening and restoring the body from injuries: Are you using Tylenol or Advil daily for pain? – Not good in the long run! Most pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medications provide excellent short-term pain-relief by blocking the production of pain-causing substances. They reduce pain by increasing circulation and decreasing your body’s sensitivity to it. However, this process decreases the blood supply to the muscles and joints, creating other muscular, ligament, and joint problems in the long term, preventing true recovery. Tight muscles with poor circulation are fatigued easily and are more prone to injury. Long term stress on the body is a problem that causes more degeneration, and it is harsh on your liver and kidneys. Acupuncture and natural herbal formulas get to the bottom of the problem, and are safer for you.

Arthritis/joint conditions – interfere with daily activities. Arthritis is an auto-immune disease, but often occurs with chronic or repetitive injuries. Due to the pain and stiffness, you may have trouble exercising, getting out of bed, writing, sewing, buttoning clothes, dressing, walking, or climbing stairs. Often some days are better than others, and the severity of symptoms can change from day to day. Sometimes living with the loss of function and movement is more difficult than the pain of arthritis. Seek alternative treatment. All ages benefit.

Sports performance enhancement – Acupuncture strengthens body function and restores internal harmony and balance, allowing your body to work more optimally with less stress. Improved blood flow and circulation permits you to work harder with less wear and tear on your joints, muscles and ligaments. It is a mental and physical balancing.

Back/Sciatica/ Neck/shoulder pain - Acupuncture is a very effective solution when treating most neck and back problems. Neck, shoulder, and back muscle tension and stiffness are very common with a work out gone wrong, or from just over sitting at your desk everyday. Talking on the phone or sitting in front of a computer for prolonged periods of time causes a lack of circulation in the tissue and fatigues the muscles involved. Injuries to these areas whether acute or chronic, should be addressed by acupuncture for full recovery.

Disk bulges/Degenerative disk disease. I recommend seeking treatment prior to surgery. Acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation.

General soft tissue recovery, either acute or chronic.

Neuropathy/Neuralgia - Nerve pain is annoying. It often moves around. It can be sharp and drilling -like or it can give you a feeling of numbness or “pins and needles.”

Knee, elbow, ankle injuries – ACL? Meniscus tears? or strains? Yes… treatable. If you have a knee condition that is bone on bone, acupuncture will not work, but if there is any cartilage there, acupuncture is often effective- reducing swelling, improving mobility, and strengthening the ligaments and tendons.

Hamstring, Achilles, bicep tears.

Shoulder injuries – Bursitis, “frozen shoulder,” rotator cuffs, or scapular problems -benefit from treatment.

Bursitis/Tendonitis.

Pre and post surgery preparation and recovery- Acupuncture helps prep your body for surgery and helps you recover more quickly. Returning to “normal” faster, it is what we all want to achieve.
So…How does it work?

Acupuncture enhances blood circulation, especially in the area that there is pain or discomfort. This desired action can be achieved by regulating the autonomic nervous system (which is responsible for internal organ system functioning, regulation of blood circulation, and production of relaxation effects. When circulation in the tissue improves, muscle relaxation occurs, and immediate pain reduction follows in many cases.

Proper circulation in the tissue is important not only for blood to nourish the tissue but also in enhancing the elimination of muscle fatigue and pain-causing substances (e.g., lactic acid) thus resulting in healthy tissues. Physically and mentally, you feel better.
Why Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine is safe, effective and non- toxic. It is not harsh on your liver, kidneys, joints and ligaments like western drugs. You won’t become dependent on it. It can resolve the root of your health problem, rather than mask it.

A formula is made precisely for you and your condition. I treat multiple symptoms at the same time and your formula will reflect solutions to whatever your health issues are.

It promotes blood flow, improve circulation, reduces inflammation strengthens muscle, ligaments and tendons and in conjunction with acupuncture restores you fast!

Call to schedule an appointment to see how acupuncture can help you.

Hiatal hernia is a dysfunction which happens within the body when an organ protrudes past the muscle walls which are responsible for holding that organ in place and inside the body. This protrusion emerges within the upper section of the stomach into the thorax from a tear in the diaphragm. A hiatal hernia can be caused by birth defect, accident or injury and by pressure from being overweight or pregnant. And those with GERDs disease seem to be at a higher risk level of developing a hiatal hernia. However it can also be caused by obesity or pregnancy, which creates extra pressure on the stomach. Others causes include injury or accidents.

In some cases patients are unaware they have had a hiatal hernia and it is only discovered by a doctor performing an xray. Others seek out help due to painful symptoms. Most people do not have symptoms and no treatment is needed. If symptoms do occur, initial treatment may include medication to control acid reflux (GERD), and a change in diet. Weight loss is often recommended as a means of reducing the pressure on the hernia. Many sufferers can benefit from exercise, not only to build strength around the area, but to aid digestion and metabolic rate as well as boosting the immune system and improving overall health.

Preventing hiatal hernia symptoms and treatment that is safe can come in many forms that you may never have thought of. Luckily there are many safe and effective natural remedies for hiatal hernia symptoms and treatment. This abnormal condition may then cause further complications. While hiatal hernia symptoms may vary amongst patients, there is always a chance for a patient to suffer from heartburn, chest pain and regurgitation. Most hernias, if monitored correctly, are relatively harmless, with the most severe symptoms being those of acid reflux and gerd, which you can easily manage with diet and lifestyle changes. There are a number of practices that can increase the possibility of getting a hiatal hernia.

As time progress you may experience more symptoms including abdominal discomfort. This abdominal pain can also venture into your chest. This happens because the stomach becomes trapped above the diaphragm. Herbs and spices that can either be used in cooking or by themselves including; ginger, basil, mint, licorice root and fennel seed. Honey. Honey can be used to combat symptoms of hiatal hernia either by itself or drinking it with herbal teas. These signs and symptoms tend to become worse when you lean forward, strain, lift heavy objects or lie down, and they can also worsen during pregnancy. Unfortunately surgery and drugs mean dangerous side effects and possible complications.

However, just because you have heartburn does not automatically mean you have a hernia, and so you are strongly advised to ensure that you keep a close eye out for other hiatus hernia symptoms so that you can more readily identify whether or not you are indeed suffering from this. The next step down the line is surgery especially in cases of a strangulated hiatal hernia (complication of a hiatal hernia when part of the stomach that is herniated becomes twisted or pinched by the diaphragm).

Oregano needs no introduction to those who are familiar with herbs. It was a century back when Oregano got popularity again in the world of medicines. As herb with miraculous qualities, it has captured the first aid box of almost every home in UK today. The Oregano has been in use since several centuries. It was first discovered by Greek people. They have explored Oregano in the mountains of Mediterranean zone, thousands years back. Gradually, it got popularity and reached to other corners of the world. This universal medicine was forgotten in the middle era. However, its values were again identified recently. Many researches have been conducted to explore its medicinal values.

This has been discovered with ability to cure diseases which were once either impossible to cure or were difficult. The oil of Oregano is basically used for various medical purposes. The leaves of Oregano plant are used to extract oil. It is important to mention that this Oregano is quite different from the Oregano used as spice in cooking food. Often people get confused Oregano oil with the one which is used for cooking purposes. This herb has to well known as antibiotic, antifungal, antiparasite and antibacterial. Because this medicine has no side effects these are widely used by doctor world wide and are cheerfully accepted by patients.

This is a boon for those suffering with Asthma. Absorbing drop of Oregano oil one of two under the tongue will positively affect the patient. Repeating the process is advisable for at least for three times within fifteen minutes. Sever Asthma can be control up to certain level however, doctor’s treatment is advisable. Mild Asthma with the use of inhaler can be fully controlled with the Oregano treatment. Muscular pain is another trouble which annoys maximum players. This can be easily overcome with Oregano oil. Massaging with few drops of the oil will instantly bring down the ache. It similarly works for joint pain which is most common problem of elderly family members.

Another great advantage of this herb is its ability to fight against the viral that are responsible for seasonal cold and flu. The oil intake reduces the trouble to the far extent. Doctor’s advice may not require in order to eliminate such seasonal diseases that come with winter arrival. In all terms, Oregano oil is fit for family health. It has really made its place strong in every home that is becoming an instant way of fighting common diseases.

The formal training of a phlebotomist is usually conducted at the medical institutions, colleges and the schools. However, in some of the cases it might be arranged at the various vocational institutes and community centers etc. In order to encourage more people to pursue their careers as the phlebotomists, the various training institutions are offering a number of phlebotomy related courses at flexible timings. Also, the courses themselves are diverse in their educational level comprising of certification courses from a few days up to a few months and diplomas comprising of a year or two. The level of education for the training of phlebotomy, however, depends on the student. Keeping in mind the various needs of the individuals, the students are allowed to enroll into a number of courses being offered during the day, evening and even in the night. Sometimes even the individuals who are already working as the phlebotomists enroll in the certification courses lasting for up to one week in order to further specialize and enhance their skill level. The students who have graduated from high school should contact their placement offices and the counselors in order to find out where the phlebotomy courses are being offered in the local educational institutes. A phlebotomist’s job is not restricted to the withdrawal of blood and other fluids from the animals and the humans under the prescribed instructions of the doctors. Rather, it demands to be thorough in the knowledge of laboratory rules, regulation and the management systems as well.

This is the reason a major part of the on job learning and training of the phlebotomist comprises of getting trained in the various aspects of laboratory methodologies including, adherence to health standards, use of the quality control measures, specimen collection, safe processing, efficient work practices and much more. The marking of the specimen collected is most important when it comes to the responsibilities of the phlebotomist. This procedure not only curbs the chances of the sample collected getting lost, but also, allows a way of tracking the specimen at any point of the procedure. Moreover, it also assures the report generation against the correct sample specimen. Other than this, the phlebotomists will also be required to study about the anatomy of the humans in order to manage the withdrawal of blood and other fluids in the scenarios when there is certain complication. A basic study pertaining to the blood cells is also undertaken by the students of phlebotomy to help them understand the cell composition and the effects of infection on them. The collection method of blood or other fluids is different from adults to seniors to children. It may also differ according to the unique bodily requirement of the patients and thus, in most of the cases the phlebotomist may be required to select the apt procedure accordingly; unless instructed by the doctor.

If you thought that all that glitters is to be adorned by women alone then you should think again. There are wide choices for the modern man. And this extends in case of choosing a gift for them as well.

Gift ideas for men are a tough choice especially in a situation where there aren’t too many choices to make.

Let us see the primary gift items that we can select for a man.

• Pens
• Watches
• Cuff links
• Tie pins
• Wallets
• Perfumes

These are some of the items that may come to mind as an ideal gift for a man even though there are other things as well. These are not only articles of good use for a man but are extremely popular in their brand names and makings as well.
Swarovski Gifts for Men

The use of Swarovski crystals is a fashion statement for many designers and patrons of this world famous company. Crystal effects are commonly found in several products for men that are manufactured not only by Swarovski but also by other designers as well.

Here are some of the popular Swarovski gift ideas for the special man.

Swarovski Cuff Links – These crystal studded cuff links are exquisite pieces of fine jewelry that could be a priced possession for any man. They come in single as well as multiple sets that are exclusively packaged for the best way to preserve.
Crystal Watches – You can find opulent and luxurious looking men’s crystal studded watches from both Swarovski as well as various brands of watch makers of international repute. They are not only good looking but can make for ideal collector’s items as well.
Crystal Studded Pens – These unique crystal studded pens are definitely a prized possession. These pens are all over studded with crystals of different colors and make for a dazzling effect. It would be the perfect gift for someone who loves to possess pens and need to use them more often.
Swarovski Studded Sun Shades – Though many may find this to be a little ostentatious to the subtle appeal of menswear there is nothing wrong in trying out something new when it comes to fashionable accessories. There will always be an appropriate occasion for it. The shades in this range are dazzling pieces of eyewear that are studded with crystals along the sides of the frame.
Swarovski Desktop Accessories – Swarovski is famous for its crystal desktop accessories and figurines. They make for great gift ideas as they have a brilliant effect of craftsmanship and finesse of the crystals.
Fashion Accessories for Men – There are several Swarovski accessories for men that are extremely good choices when it comes to gift ideas. There are a variety of items like key chains, wallets studded with crystals and even crystal studded card holders. There are passport holders as well as mobile phone accessories.

It may be mentioned here that all Swarovski products comes with an exclusive packaging in Swarovski boxes and cases that are unique in its style as well. They help to enhance your gifts further.

Some people do not consider acupuncture to be a real form of medical treatment. Many doctors even scoff at its use but it has been in use for thousands of years and it has always produced real results.

Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine which uses very thin needles to adjust the meridians of the body. The needle is inserted at a designated point on the body and seated with a tap to the top. It is used successfully in the treatment of chronic pain, arthritis, headaches, ulcers and more. It has even been used instead of anesthesia in some circumstances. Because acupuncture doesn’t raise the blood pressure or stay in the blood after the procedure is finished, it is the choice in childbirth and some kinds of surgery where the patient needs to be awake and alert.

Acupuncture does not work in a manner that is easily figured out. The person doing the acupuncture might insert needles in the rim of a person’s ear to treat an entirely different part of the body. It is supposed to allow the chi force of the body to move freely through the different parts of the body. When chi is blocked, a needle is inserted to open the pathway. The chi flows through meridians of the body and can be positive or negative. Beyond this, western medicine thinks that acupuncture releases endorphins and that this stimulation of these chemicals relieves pain. Western physicians also think that the use of acupuncture does something to the pituitary gland so that it releases anti inflammatories. Leave it to us to try to re-think something that has worked perfectly well for thousands of years.

Acupuncture began to be an accepted practice in the 1970’s and there are now many schools that teach and license the procedure. Of course, though western physicians have begun to accept and even use acupuncture, they still call it a placebo effect; typical.

Electro acupuncture has been found to reduce the inflammation in ALS. ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is the scientific name for Lou Gehrig’s disease named for the famous ball player who had it. This disorder paralyzes the nerves and muscles in the body causing degeneration of the motor neurons. Eventually a person with ALS loses the ability to speak, move, swallow, and even breathe on his or her own. In a word, it is a horrible death but an even more horrible way to live.

Where formerly patients consulted their chiropractor for acupuncture treatments and he or she billed them as chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture is now being accepted as a treatment by mainstream medicine. It is now described as a complementary medicine and even most insurances will allow for a certain number of treatments per year.

It is important when consulting a person who practices acupuncture that the patient is certain that the person uses new sterile needles with each treatment and disposes of them immediately afterwards to prevent infections.

COLOSTROGENESIS or THE FORMATION OF BOVINE COLOSTRUM

When does “colostrum” get made? Well if you ask a human mother she would say upon birth and guess what, she would be correct! If you ask her where is the colostrum made, she would say in the breast, again she would be correct. If, however you had the opportunity to ask a bovine mother the same questions the response would be completely different.

When does a bovine mother make her colostrum? Before birth, as a matter of fact several weeks before birth, that becomes very important when you look at the “WHY”, which we will go in to. Where is the colostrum made, within the body? Within the body, what do you mean, why not the udders?

The udder of a cow is a pass-through, meaning the colostrum is actually made within the body and passes through the udder. However, if you want milk, then the udder is the place to be. You see many marketers of colostrum tell you all colostrum is the same and that the formation is essentially the same process, it isn’t!

When you look at the production of colostrum between a human mother and a bovine mother the production is drastically different and for very specific reasons.

First let’s take a look at the human side as it is easier to explain. Ready? A human mother will produce colostrum in the mammary gland and for up to approximately 5-7 days. The reason is we receive passive transfer of just about everything we need prior to birth through the placenta, that is called passive transfer.

The formation of colostrum in the pregnant cow starts approximately 3-4 weeks prior to birth, but it is produced essentially within the body and is released through the mammary gland. You see for the most part milk is produced within the mammary gland but colostrum isn’t, it is produced within the body, as a matter of science the components are found within the blood and released upon the beginning of the birthing process.

Colostrum for the calf contains all the different factors to jump start the the baby calf; immune factors, growth factors and metabolic factors are all found within the colostrum. Why? Because THERE IS NO passive transfer between the mother and baby through the placenta with a bovine, they MUST get all the beneficial factors after they are born through the colostrum. The mammary gland for the cow is switched on about 2 days before birth, once that takes place the mammary gland is getting ready to produce lactose (milk), but before that process takes place the colostrum has to pass through or be reabsorbed by the mother for her own benefit.

If you look at what is in the mammary gland at the time of birth, it is composed of true colostrum and until that pre-milk fluid is either suckled or removed up until about 6-8 hours it remains the substance we are looking for, colostrum. Once removal happens then the mammary gland kicks in and starts to produce copious amounts of lactose or transitional milk and within 72 hours after birth it is milk.