Dr. Riggs' Chiropractic Blog

Dr. Riggs' December Schedule

2011-12-12T07:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to Everyone. Marty and I hope you have a happy holiday season. Be safe and remember to not eat too much-it's hard to get back off.

The following are office hours for the Month of December:

Friday December 16 the office will close at 2:00 PM. We will stay open through the lunch hour. Dr. Riggs has to go out of town for a seminar.

Friday December 23rd we will close at 4 PM for the holiday weekend.
Monday December 26 we will be closed for Christmas.

Office News:
Dr. Riggs has recently become board eligible in chiropractic orthopedics and also became certified in low level laser therapy. He is the only certified one certified in laser therapy in the area to his knowledge.

November Blog

2011-11-10T08:41:00.000-08:00

CLINIC NEWS:

Dr. Riggs completed the remaining requirements for chiropractic board eligibility in October and hopes to take the exam next fall.

NOVEMBER OFFICE HOURS:

We are going to take a slight mini-vacation during Thanksgiving week. We are going to visit family in Mississippi. Our office hours will be as follows:
OPEN: MONDAY-TUESDAY: (November 21-22). We are going to try to close at 4:00 PM on 21st.
CLOSED: WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY. (November 23-26)
RE-OPEN: MONDAY (November 28)

NUTRITION/HEALTH NEWS:

Magnesium was found to help protect against diabetes (Type II) risk in a meta-analysis.
Chondroitin sulfate improved hand arthritis in a clinical trial (Arthritis & Rheumatism).
Lifestyle interventions (DASH diet, supplements Q10 & Potassium) are viable alternatives to lower blood pressure without drugs (Journal of Clinical Hypertension).
Doubling vitamin D could add 2 years to life expectancy (European Journal of Clinical Nutrition). Current vitamin D recommendations are inadequate for African-Americans in another study.
Reduced cognitive function and brain volume are associated with lower levels of B12 (Neurology).
Squalamine found in sharks may help lower liver viruses.
Low levels of CoQ10 are associated with 790% increase in risk of melanoma metastasis (Journal of American Academy of Dermatology).
Curcumin (anti-inflammatory spice) shows promise in reducing neck and head tumor growth (Clinical Cancer Research).

October Health News

2011-10-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

Clinic News:

In addition to Dr. Riggs receiving laser certification (Certified Laser Practitioner) recently, he continually works on upgrading his skills. He is enrolled in Palmer University completing the last year of requirements for board certification eligibility in chiropractic orthopedics and plans to take the exam new fall for DACO (diplomate academy chiropractic orthopedics) status.

Nutritional News:

Following below is bullets describing briefly some of the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids that are evolving from research. Diets rich in omega 3s tend to have populations that are healthier and live longer.

Omega 3s

associated with decreased cognitive decline in older men and women
protects brain from severe stroke damage
associated with less brain shrinkage
krill oil works synergistically with other omega 3s to target pro-inflammatory factors in arthritis
krill oil with astaxanthin suppresses pro-inflammatory agents
krill oil + hyaluronic acid + astaxanthin reduces pain and resolves in more than half tested
rich omega 3 diets decrease cancer risk and reduce inflammation.
omega 3s soothe anxiety and inflammation
combat stress and cortisol damage
battle depression and anxiety
slash risk for premature death
decrease risk factors for metabolic syndrome
fights cancer in early phases
provide vital protection for kidney and liver function
may help prevent osteoporotic fractures
may help mitigate triggering factors for COPD

October Blog Update

2011-10-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

Dr. Riggs completed laser certification this past weekend completing the 24 hours required, in addition to 36 other laser hours. He is one of less than 100 Certified Laser Practitioners in the country.

September 2011 Blog

2011-08-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

September Office Hours & Clinic News:

We will be closed Saturday-Monday Labor Day Weekend (September 3-5). If you have an emergency, please call 911.
Dr. Riggs will be completing Laser certification in October. He will be a CLP (certified laser practitioner) when he completes his last course. The only one in the area.
Dr. Riggs is also re-entering the orthopedics postgraduate program at Palmer with a targeted test date of fall 2012. He completed two years previously and has to complete the 3rd year. This will give him advanced credentials in chiropractic orthopedics (non-surgical orthopedics).

Health News:

Nutrition News:

Rhodiola helps combat the effects of excess cortisol (stress hormone). Excess cortisol can supress immunity; cause hypertension, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, carb craving, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes (adult onset), fatty necks, faces and bellies, decreased libido and bone loss. It is akin to taking steroids frequently.
Too little or too much sleeping may affect cognitive decline (outside the 6-8 hour range).
Olive oil intake is linked to lower stroke risk.
Resveratrol's anti-inflammatory and anti-aging capabilities shows potential in anti-aging. Grapes and red wine.
Obesity leads to liver disease.

Medical News:

Trazadone and pregabalin combined improve fibromyalgia symptoms.
Men are at risk for osteoporotic fractures but about 10 years later than women. Men suffering hip fractures in the 76-84 age range do not fare too well-1/3 dying within a year. Low body weight, advancing age, and smoking increase the risk. Most fractures occur after age 70.
Risk for hip fracture increases if hormone replacement therapy is discontinued.
Jogging wins out in beating belly fat over resistance training

August Office Hours and Blog

2011-08-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Office Hours for August:

Closed at 4:00 PM Friday August 5th Leaving for Houston Seminar
Closed at 3:00 PM Wednesday August 17 Leaving for Albuquerque
Closed All Day Thursday August 18 in Albuquerque at VA

Nutrition and Health News:

Green tea polyphenols provide protective benefits against ultraviolet light.
Human data supports caloric restriction as an anti-aging strategy
Nearly 2/3rds of americans are medically overweight or obese while 30% believe they are healthy and 70% of obese believe they are just overweight. An obvious disconnect between perception and reality.
A dual blend of two plant extracts might combat fat storage. Sphaeranthus indicus flower and mangosteen fruit were found to impede the generation of fat.
Low levels of CoQ10 were associated with increase breast cancer risk in a Cancer Epidemiology study. Supplementation also improves the function of the endothelium.
Blueberries inhibit fat formation. In spite of them being expensive, I love blueberries.
Low levels of vitamin D are linked to stiffness of the arteries, while higher levels reduced risk of macular degeneration in women. Low levels may also explain the higher rate of hypertension in African Americans. Deficience could also play a role in the development of Parkinson's disease.
Omega 3 FAs help protect against diseases related to obesity.
John Hopkins scientists in a recent study linked dysfunctional mitochondria (cell powerhouse) to peripheral neuropathy.
Antioxidants lower risk of metabolic syndrome and protect against radiation.
Coffee drinks rejoice. The Journal of Stroke reports coffee drinkers have fewer strokes.
Maritime pine bark extract and bilberry extract (standardized) show promise in reducing eye pressure associated with glaucoma and also in combination with the eye drop latanoprost (prescription).

Medical News:

July Office Hours

2011-06-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

July Hours: The office will close Saturday July 2nd and Monday July 4th for the Holidays. We will be back to Normal Hours on Tuesday. If you have an emergency call 911 or go to the emergency room.

June Blog and Health News

2011-06-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

June Office Hours:

I will be open all day on Thursday June 9 and closed at noon on Friday June 10 to leave town for a seminar.

Clinical Topic of The Month-Tennis Elbow

What is it?
Tennis elbow is referred to medically as lateral epicondylitis, suggesting an inflammation of the extensor tendons of the forearm. Studies suggest that chronic cases actually display degenerative changes in the tendon suggesting tendinosis instead of the inflammatory tendinitis. The point of pain is at the outside of the elbow.

How do I know I have it? (Signs and symptoms)

Pain on the outer part of elbow (lateral epicondyle).
Pain with gripping or squeezing, wrist extension and lifting movements. Firm handshakes when squeezed can hurt.
Painful with any activities extending the wrist.
Grip weakness and pain with any activities gripping-turning a door knob, shaking hands, holding a heavy glass of water, turning a screw driver, etc..

How do I get Tennis Elbow?

Forceful blows or extension were thought to be early culprits suggesting tears at the tendons insertion into the bone.
There may be alternation of the radial nerve in the area.
Breakdown of the tendon due to overuse stress.

Prevention:

Rest or back down the activity causing it.
Maintain physical conditioning.
Use appropriate equipment.
Learn appropriate form.
Use a tennis elbow strap to help diffuse shearing forces.

Diagnosis:

Orthopedic testing (Cozen's).
Medical imaging tests-x-ray, MRI, ultrasound (usually cost prohibitive)
Generally made with signs and symptoms

Treatments:

Manipulation (Mill's maneuver)
Physical modalities-Ultrasound, electrical stim, ice, heat, vibration, laser therapy, exercises and stretching
Deep tissue therapy (transverse friction massage, Graston or other instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization)
Rest
Anti-inlammatory medications (OTC or prescription)
Bracing
Medical interventions-surgery, botulism, cortisone injections

Personally, I use a combination protocol of manipulation (Mill's maneuver), instrument assisted soft tissue therapy (Graston), cold laser therapy, temperature therapy (mainly ice), stretching and exercises. This combination seems to get the best results.

Health Snippets

Heart Attack Symptoms:
General:

Pain or pressure in the chest.
Discomfort spreading to the back, jaw, throat, or arm.
Nausea, indigestion, or heartburn.
Weakness, anxiety, or shortness of breath.
Rapid or irregular heartbeatsWomen:

Note: Women are more likely than men to have heartburn, loss of appetite, tiredness or weakness, coughing, and heart flutters

May Blog and Nutrition/Health News

2011-05-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

Office Hours Notice for May:

We will be closed Memorial Day, May 30, 2011 to celebrate the holiday. If you have an emergency, call 911.

Carpal Tunnel Treatment

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel causing intermittent numbness of the thumb, index, long and radial half of the ring fingers. The pain is generally worse at night. It it is chronic, permanent damage can be causes to the nerve with constant numbness, muscle atrophy and weakness of squeezing the hand. Although consided a repetitive stress problem, studies have not confirmed this.

Treatment: Medical treatment consists of night splints and corticosteroid injections or surgery. Conservative/Chiropractic Treatment: splinting is used by chiropractors as well as mobilization or manipulation of the wrist joints, deep tissue work (Graston technique) to stretch the carpal ligament, exercises, icing, activity modification, and in my practice cold laser therapy. I get the best results with LASER therapy and Graston technique (instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization), stretching, exercises and splinting. I also find working the whole shoulder arm and wrist complex helps relieve tension. Sometimes CTS is misdiagnosed when it is real a pronator entrapment of the median nerve in the forearm.

NUTRITION NEWS:

Apple polyphenols extend fruit fly life span by 10% by apparently working on SOD (superoxide dismutase) and catalase.
Cup of Joe: a Swedish study found less strokes in coffee drinkers.
Parkinson's and Vitamin D: vitamin D insufficiency was highly prevalent in cases of recent onset of Parkinson's Disease.
Vitamin D and Lung Cancer: increasing vitamin D could help prevent lung cancer recurrence.
Vitamin E Supplementation and ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease): a 23% reduced risk for ALS was found in supplementing for 2-4 years and 36% for over 5 years of supplementing.
Peripheral Neuropathy: old dysfunctional mitochondria (cell powerhouse) might cause peripheral neuropathy (John Hopkins).
Green Tea vs. Alzheimer's: green tea consumtion may protect against Alzheimer's disease.
Green Tea and Kidneys: green tea is rich in catechins and flavinoids is a potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant with health benefits against, cancer, cardiovascular disease, body weight and insulin sensitivity as well as protecting the kidneys.
Glaucoma Nutrition: a nutritional formula of maritime pine bark extract and standardized bilberry extract shows promise in reducing intraocular pressure.
Aging Eyes: a special topical formula of soy and rice bran extracts supported by phytonutrients found in blueberries and antioxidants from pemgranate and tea extracts have been show to quickly target dark circles and eye puffiness.
Triglycerides: tocotrienols (class of vitamin E) in a recent study lowered triglycerides by 28% At doses of 100-200 mg/day they have been shown to reduce LDL and total cholesterol by as much as 37%.
Echinacea: echinacea in one study resulted in a 10% decrease in cold severity and about a half a day less of symptoms.
Calcium Supplements for Osteoporosis: Calcium supplements with/without vitamin D moderately increase cardiovascular events including heart attacks and warrants a reassessment of their role in managing osteoporosis.

OTHER HEALTH NEWS:

Optimal Heart Health: Blood Pressure below 120/80 mmHg, Body Mass Index (BM) below 25, fasting glucose below 100 mg/Dl, and cholesterol below 200.
Prescription Drug Abuse: The FDA has taken steps with the Department of Justice, Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs, and Defense and others to deal with the recreational use of prescription drugs via focusing on removing unused prescription drugs from homes, and dealing with "pill mills" and doctor shopping through law enforcement. Unused prescription drugs have shown up as party drugs where drugs are dumped in a bowl without knowledge of their effects, what they are for, or the risks and side effects of taking them. The drugs are often stolen from parent's medicine cabinets and could include opiods as well as things like heart medications, and pain medications to name a few.
Allergies: Allergies are inflammation. The following foods can help fight allergies naturally: Salmon: Fatty coldwater fish like salmon (EPA and DHA) are omega 3 fatty acids. Trout, tuna, nuts and seeds are also omega 3 sources. Grape juice: Grape juice is a good source of resveratrol and antioxidant (may reduce asthma inflammation), red wine (even more resveratrol), blueberries, (may help lower blood sugar) and peanuts all contribute to resveratrol Beans: loaded with the B vitamin folate which may reduce allergic reactions. Cutting back of pro-inflammatory red meat is also good. Apples have quercetin a flavonoid which may stem histamine production and cool inflammation. Yogurt: has loads of probiotics for gut bacterial which lowers immune substances that affect allergies. Carrots: colorful diets (veggies) have cartoneoids may have an allergy-quelling effect. Mix It Up: mix up your diet but avoid inflammatory foots: sugar, high saturated fats, red meat, heavy carbohydrate diets, and heavy fast foods.
CAMS and Osteoarthritis: What complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) work with osteoarthritis. A recent review found that capsaicin gel, SAM-3 were the most supported and some evidence that MSM, rose hips (vitamin C) and Indian Frankincense (5-loxin or boswellia) may be effective.

Sources: Google images, Medscape, Real Age, Life Extension.

OFFICE HOUR CHANGE

2011-04-20T14:33:00.000-07:00

Office Hour Change for April
The office will be closed April 27 (Wednesday) and 28 (Thursday) and Saturday the 30th.
Dr. Riggs will be out of town. Normal hours should be in effect Friday the 29th.

If you have an emergency during my absence please call 911 or go to the emergency room

April Blog

2011-04-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

OFFICE HOUR REMINDER: I will be closed April 14th, Thursday all day (normally only morning hours).

NECK PAIN:

Acute neck pain can be caused by many things. Strains/sprains to the neck from whiplash, sports, or certain sudden movements can result in muscular or ligament pain. Injuries to the muscles take about 4-6 weeks to heal and ligament and tendon injuries take somewhat longer. Mechanical joint pain can also result from sleeping postures, physical activities, repetitive movement injuries, and simply moving wrong. When the joint locks and prevents normal joint motion pain often results. Osteoarthritis/degenerative disc disease can also lead to neck pain. Calcium build up called spurs can sometimes press on sensitive nerve structures resulting in radiating pain and lack of normal movement. Disc injuries (swelling or herniation) can lead to severe neck pain due to disc material pressing on nerves. Vascular problems (heart disease, artery disease) can also cause neck pain as can viral infections, certain cancers, and some diseases.

Chronic neck pain frequently results from years of abuse and the development of degenerative changes in the spine such as decreased disc spaces, calcium spurs, narrowed nerve openings, structural changes, and abnormal muscle and ligament tension. Chronic musculoskeletal problems are generally progressive-i.e., they get worse with time and age.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This is another condition often accompanying neck pain and arm pain or numbness and tingling. Generally, it is caused by mechanical pressure on the bundle of nerves and vessels coming out of the neck. The increased pressure can be caused tight muscles in the neck or chest, an extra rib in the neck, postural problems, blocked arteries, and other causes.

Treatment options abound. Conservative treatment may involve chiropractic manipulation, mobilization, stretching, exercises, structural changes, nutritional support and various physical medicine modalities to relax muscles and speed up healing. LASER therapy also works well with neck pain. Non-responsive cases may require steroid injections or surgical intervention. Doctors of Chiropractic are trained to provide conservative treatment for acute and chronic neck pain. By focusing on the normal structure and function of the neck we have various methods available to us. My clinic focuses on manipulation (low force and traditional), traction, physical medicine modalities (ultrasound, electrical stim, exercises) and the use of low level LASER therapy to help return patients to normal in as short a time as possible. Chronic cases and patients with radiating pain may take longer than normal due to tissue and structure changes and the nature of the condition. Referals are provided in non-responsive cases. Medical treatment may include: medication, injections, or surgery. X-rays may or may not be necessary depending on clinical findings and the patient's response to treatment.

NUTRITION NEWS:

There is evidence that fish oil, vitamin D, carnosine, multi-vitamins and a healthy life style can slow the rate of telomere shortening which is responsible for aging. Recent research has made strides in discovering how to prevent telomere shorting and thereby extend life span.
Magnesium supplements may reduce diabetes risk.
Green tea may help prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can give you a healthy glow.
Increased zinc intake was found to be associated with lower risk of prostate cancer death.
Vitamin E was associated with longer life span in a Finnish group over 71.
High dietary fat, cholesterol linked to increased breast cancer risk.
Belly fat puts women at risk for osteoporosis.

Change in Office Schedule

2011-03-28T06:52:00.000-07:00

My Schedule has changed for the end of the month. I WILL be in the Office on March 31, April 1 and Saturday April 2. I will be closed Thursday April 14 for an eye doctor appointment in Lubbock.

Losing Weight Eating Healthy

2011-03-09T12:07:00.000-08:00

OFFICE SCHEDULE FOR MARCH:
Saturday 3/12/11: the office will open at 11 AM instead of 10 AM. Dr. Riggs has to do a relicensing teleseminar from 8-11
Thursday 3/31/11 and Friday 4/1/11 and Saturday 4/2/11: The office will be closed. Dr. Riggs will be out those three days. If an emergency go to the emergency room:

HEALTHY EATING

Eating healthy is a challenge in modern society with all the fast food restaurants, our busy lifestyle and our time constraints. However, the highly processed food market appears to contribute heavily to our national obesity epidemic. A recent article by Dr. Alex Vasquez (DC, ND, DO) has suggested a supplemented form of the paleolithic/mediterranean diet. The paleolithic diet is the diet eaten by our ancestors when they were hunter/gatherers. The mediterranean diet is considered to be very heart healthy.

What does the diet recommend? Here are the components. As a side note, I have been following the diet and have lost 23 pounds since January.

Paleo-Mediterranean Diet:

Emphasis on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and berries and lean proteins such as chicken, fish, lean meats, soy, and eggs. This is a high anti-oxidant, high fiber and anti-cancer oriented diet.
Soy and whey protein isolates (anti-cancer, heart protective, mood enhancing).
Avoids: potatoes, starchy vegetables, wheat, grains including rice (due to high glycemic index and load). Avoid wheat, barley, rye (high glycemic index and gluten sensitivity)
Forbids: colas.sodas, processed foods and manufactured foods.

Supplementation:

Supplemented with multi-vitamin and minerals with limitation of 10000 IU of vitamin A in childbearing age women. Helps reduce inflamation and is health promoting.
Vitamin D3: 4000 IU although some respond better to 10000 IU.
Fatty Acid Supplementation:

ALA (omega 3 flaxseed), EPA (omega 3 -fish oil), DHA (omega 3 fish oil, algae), GLA (omega 6-borage oil), EPO (black currant seed oils), Oleic acid (flax and borage seed oil).
Olive oil for salads and cooking (omega 9- oleic acid + other anti-inflammatory/anti-cancer phytonutrients).
Improves diabetic neuropathy, respiratory distress, Chron's, lupus, RA, cardiovascular disease, eczema, migrains, depression, osteoporosis, musculoskeletal pain, MS.

PROBIOTICS for gut flora modifications:

Good bacteria and yeast (probiotics), prebiotics (fiber, arabinogalactin, inulin), and fermented foods (kefir and yogurt if not allergic to milk).
Advantages-restores the gut microbial balance.

Iodine and Iodide:

12mg/d is consistent with intake in countries like Japan
Antioxidant, antimicrobial, mucolytic, immunosupportive, anti-estrogen and anti-cancer.

Balance- March Blog

2011-03-01T15:08:00.000-08:00

Balance

   We all seek to achieve balance in our lives. Excess tends to invite problems in many ways. Excessive waste invites pollution, degradation of our environment and leads to things like a break down of the ecosystem. Excessive intake of bad food can lead to a multitude of health problems: diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and many degenerative diseases. Excessive cell production is of course cancer.
   Achieving balance can be difficult. We are inundated with opportunities to engage in excess: fast food restaurants galore, fast cars, drugs and alcohol, and media overload. Balance on the other hand requires discipline. The ability to temper impulses and desires with what is healthy and safe, right and wrong, dark and light, etc. This is much the ying yang concept of the orient. In the health area, balance can be a very difficult challenge. We are busy as a society: rushing, rushing constantly. It is far too easy to grab a fast food burger or a donut than to fix a healthy breakfast or prepare some fruit.
   Some thoughts on balance:

Take the time to find quiet. Find or set up a special place in your house where you can just sit and have quiet with no interruptions, no phones or internet, no noise, and minimal light.
Breathe. Learn to breath properly and practice breathing. There are many types of breathing exercises available from yoga, chi qong, tai chi and martial arts that have rejuvenating abilities.
Clear the mind. Practice prayer or meditation or whatever your method of getting in touch with the ethereal or energy of your spirit. This is a good place to practice breath as well. Learn to get all the noise that courses through our minds to be quiet. One person said a long time ago that "all of mankind's ills come from the inability to sit quietly in a room and be alone." Or something to that effect.
Practice relaxation. Relax the mind, relax the body, relax the breath. Let all the tension progressively release from your body. You can lie or sit and start with an area of the body and relax it totally. Then move to another area and work through the whole body.
Learn to make balanced decisions. Help your body function best by choosing positive alternatives to fat, sugar laden fast food meals.

Balance can also be addressed other ways in the body. Often times musculoskeletal injuries are a result of imbalances in the function of muscles. Over time muscle imbalances cause joints to break down and cause pain and dysfunction. An example is low back pain caused by weak hip flexor muscles. I find almost all the time in women with low back pain, for example, that either the major hip flexors or secondary hip flexors on one or both sides are weak. The result is the body has to recruit other muscles to walk and perform normal activities. Like a misaligned wheel on your car, over time your start having problems (breakdown) due to repetitive stress.
Muscular imbalances can be treated with the laser to restore the energy connections, unless there is severe nerve injury. By fixing the connections further or future injuries can be prevented. It allows balanced stressors and minimizes wear and tear. Maintaining balanced muscle function is essential to an effectively functioning musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

February Blog

2011-02-17T15:16:00.000-08:00

OFFICE HOURS NOTICE:

I will be closed the normal office hours on SATURDAY, February 26th, 2011. I will be in the area so if you need to be seen in the evening, contact my cell number at (770-3155). I will be tied up from 9 AM to 5 PM at a seminar and I haven't figured out my voice mail yet so just call me after 5 PM.

HEALTH CARE NEWS

A study reported in the American Pain Foundation, Pain Monitor notes that flat feet may contribute to knee pain and ostearthritis in the knee in older adults.
Calcium and Vitamin C supplements may help protect against diabetes.
Increased consumption of Omega 3 fatty acids may help ward off macular degenration.
Pomegranate may help stop metastasis of prostate cancer.
Folic acid reduces hot flashes.
Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) luecone, isolucine and valine intake show an inverse relationship to being overweight or obese.
The polyphenols in blue berries may have the ability to combat high blood sugar, obesity, bad blood lipid profiles, hyper tension, insulin resistance and diabetes, in addition to its anti-cancer fighting agents.
Ginger's compounds have been linked to providing relief for dozens of issues: cough, bronchitis and upper respiratory infections; migraines, motion and morning sickness, rheumatoid arthritis, pain from surgery, gas, loss of appetite, diarrhea, upset stomach and somache ache, colic, and nausea from chemotherapy. It also helps with inflammation. Fresh is better than dried.

January Blog and Health News

2011-01-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

Note: I will be closed Saturday 1/22/11. I will be teaching an Aikido seminar in San Antonio.

Thought for the day: “A great many people think they are thinking when they are merely rearranging their prejudices.” —William James.

Nutrition Blurbs

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: mitochondria are the power houses of cells. Dysfunction has been linked to diabetes, cancers, heart problems, aging and brain function. A natural compound may promote new mitochondria formation in cells. PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone).
Magnesium may protect women against sudden cardiac death.
Higher vitamin D levels is associated with lower risk for bladder cancer. Patients will leukemia and vitamin D insufficiency may face earlier mortality risks.
Olive Oil helps protect the liver from oxidative stress and aids in cardiac fat oxidation.
Curcumin (household spice) may help prevent and treat fatty liver disease damage.
Cinnamon Extracts may help reduce diabetes and heart disease risk factors.
Fish Oils may help diabetes and one component DHA may help promote recovery from stroke.
Ceramides (a fat-soluble constituent of normal cells) in addition to aiding skin aging may also help lower total cholesterol, increase HDLs, enhance insulin sensitivity and help prevent colon cancer.
Anthocyanins (pigmentary compounds in fruits) may help with free radical damage, cancer, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and also enhance night vision.
Glucose-control can be assisted with chromium, Indian gooseberry (amla), shlajit (rich in fulvic acid), brown seaweed and cinnamon.
Carnosine in studies at high doses has been shown to boost longevity, helping cardiovascular health, combatting elevated glucose, safeguarding the brain, and containing anti-cancer properties. Branched chained amino acids were also liked to increasing lifespan in mice.
Multi-vitamin use lowers heart attack risk in women.
Reduced testosterone levels is linked to increase mortality in men.

Herniated Discs

What is a Herniated Disc? The disc can be viewed a lot like a jelly donut. It is somewhat circular with an outer area and a center or core (nucleus). When the core bulges into the outer layer it is a bulging disc and can press on sensitive nerve structures. When it breaks into the outer layer (like the dough but with the consistency of crab meat) it is a herniation. Sometimes it breaks totally out of the disc and becomes a free fragment which can be a serious condition causing loss of bowel or bladder function or numbness in the groin (cauda equina syndrome)-usually a surgical emergency.

What Causes a Herniated Disc? The causes are many. Basically, weakness in the outer layer of the discs or the inability of the disc to handle the pressure load of the nucleus causes the fibers to rupture allowing the nuclear material to escape its containment. Lifting improperly, traumatic injuries, coughing, sneezing, and straining activities have all resulted in disc herniations.

What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?

Pain: pain can be severe in the back and leg(s). If the pain is immediately more severe in the leg, we are concerned about a free fragment (sequestered disc). Pain is usually worse with sitting.
Radiating sciatic pain (radiculopathy).
Muscle weakness
Numbness and Tingling

How are disc injuries diagnosed? An orthopedic and neurological and x-ray examination normally needs to be performed to determine other possible sources (piriformis syndrome, osteoarthritic spurring, etc.). A MRI may be necessary to establish the location and severity of the herniation.

What are my Treatment Options?

In less severe cases, conservative management works effectively including: spinal manipulation (chiropractic), physical medicine modalities for pain control (interferential current, ice, laser), acupuncture, rehabilitation exercises, medications.
More severe cases may require epidural steroid injections, surgical excision of the herniation, disc replacement or fusion.
Cauda equina symptoms generally require emergency surgery.

Many other conditions may mimic a disc herniation and are effectively treated non-surgically.

FREE Women's Self Defense Seminar

2010-11-12T14:34:00.000-08:00

FREE Women's Self Defense Seminar

Saturday 11/13/10: Self-Defense Seminar for Women

Sponsors: Aikido of Midland and The Karate Dojo

Location: Aikido of Midland, 2608 Loma Drive (office upstairs)

Time: 1-3 PM

COST: Free

WEAR SWEATS OR LOOSE CLOTHING

November SCHEDULE

2010-11-12T14:32:00.000-08:00

November Schedule/Thanksgiving Schedule:

Closed: Thanksgiving Day
Open: Friday after Thanksgiving
Closed: Saturday After Thanksgiving

Early Close Friday 11/19 at 5:00 PM
Closed Saturday 11/20.

Laser Update

2010-11-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

I just upgraded my laser from a PL5000 to an Erchonia Base Station which allows me more flexibility and efficiency in treating the patients with laser therapy. I find this an invaluable tool in not only treating neuromusculoskeletal problems faster but also for restoring muscle weakness and function. I use many of the protocols developed by Dr. Jeff Spencer, Lance Armstrong's chiropractor for his Tour de France wins. He used the laser extensively to prevent repetitive motion injuries and to treat injure professional athletes. I recently attended Dr. Spencer's advanced laser seminar after completing his basic seminar in March.

ERCHONIA LASER:

Emits visible coherrent light that stimulates the body's ability to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) the mitochondria's energy chemical which allows natural healing in decreased time.
This process reduces pain and inflammation, improves flexibility, and optimizes the function of cellular physiology.
What is LASER: Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It works on the physiological, neurological, and musculoskeletal components of the body on a cellular level.
The wavelength of the laser is the optimal wavelength for affecting the cell by penetrating 1-4 cm into the tissue with a globalization effect.
Does the laser hurt? No it is a "cold" property with no know harmful effects to the human body. It does not heat tissue or cut tissue like some surgical lasers. It is a Therapeutic laser not a surgical laser.
APPLICATIONS:

Acute Injuries
Arthritis
Backache
Bruises
Bursitis
Carpal Tunnel
Concussion
Spasms (muscle)
Dizziness/Vertigo
Fibromyalgia
Gout
Headache
Meniere's
Migraines
Osgood-Schlatter's
Osteoarthritis
Pain
Scar Tissue
Sciatica
Strains/Sprains
TMJ
Trauma
Multitude of other conditions

Sad Day

2010-10-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

With great sadness and affection, we had to put our beloved Pekingnese (Chelsey) down today. She has been sick for some time and has not been able to eat for almost two weeks now. What a very hard thing to do. She has been with us 14 years and part of the family. RIP old friend. We love you. We will miss you terribly.

October Blog & News

2010-09-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER BLOG / Clinic News

Office Schedule for October:

Vacation Schedule: Closed October 6 (Wednesday) though October 10th (Sunday) -we will be in the Smokies for a family reunion. If you have an emergency, please go to the emergency room. We will be back normal hours on Monday 10/11. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Seminar: I will be attending an advanced laser therapy seminar on the 16th and 17th. I have to catch a plane early on Friday so I will close at 4 PM on 10/15 to make the plane. Office will be closed Saturday 10/16-I will be in Denver.

Blog Addendum:
This is a site that explains medicare that I ran across. Those of you wanting to know more about your benefits might want to check it out. http://www.medicaremadeclear.com/#fbid=NuejHcC_Cxn.

Office News:

Dr. Riggs' has had an article republished in the European Aikido Journal-German Edition entitled "Aikido-Knieverletzungen" August, 2010. This is the third republishing of his articles. Another one will be republished in December. Dr. Rigg's 2 articles (one on knee injuries and the other of pressure points) will have been published in English in Black Belt Magazine and Aikido Today Magazine, as well as the English, French and now German versions of the European Aikido Journal. He has published numerous articles (7) in professional journals, one in a refereed journal. Combined he has been published in 10 different professional and martial arts journals nationally and internationally.

Nutrition/Health News:

September 23rd Affordable Health Care Changes: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/728665
Flu season is approaching. If you have not had a flu shot, especially if you are older, it is advisable to get a flu shot and possibly a pneumonia shot. Prevention is key. Some chiropractic doctors don't believe in immunization. I am not one.
If you have a lot of allergies, make sure you are checking your air conditioning/heating filters regularly. We are coming into cotton processing season so there will be a lot of allergens in the air.
From Futurity: "Researchers have discovered the crystal structures of pumps that remove heavy metal toxins from bacteria, making them resistant to antibiotics." This may allow them to desire less resistant drugs.

September Addendum-Schedule Change and More on Testosterone

2010-09-17T07:50:00.000-07:00

The office will be open this Saturday (9/18/10) due to a change in my seminar schedule. It will be closed next Saturday 9/25/10 and will be out of town.

More on Low Male Testosterone (source LEF):

Obesity causes men's testosterone to drop due to aromatase in adipose (fat) tissue converting testosterone to estrogen.
Falling testosterone levels predict and cause obesity and metabolic syndrome. C-reactive Protein (CRP) increase is linked to declining testosterone (CRP indicates inflammation which plays a critical role in obesity, cancers and atherosclerosis).
Testosterone impacts metabolism of glucose, insulin and fat.
Decreasing testosterone may explain why men beyond middle age may have trouble shedding weight even with diet and exercise.
Experts now recommend checking testosterone levels regularly as an early risk indicator for metabolic syndrome. All men should be checked in middle age even if not overweight. Why don't doctors do labs for testosterone more often? Men don't seem to have as many or as strong symptoms that are as strong as women needing hormone replacement. Men may also not be as likely to let the doctor know about all their symptoms or even seek medical advice when things like low libido, abdominal obesity or fatigue set in. The changes are also gradual, 1-2% decline per year after age 30. We likely play them off to aging.
Testosterone replacement therapy is effective in reducing body weight, fat content and insulin resistance. Dr. Morgentaler of Harvard's Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center contends that new evidence suggests that low testosterone is responsible for prostate cancer risk, not high testosterone.

Insurance Companies and Misinformation

2010-09-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

The age of misinformation and the nice insurance companies are already at it:

"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 9, 2010
HHS Press Office

Sebelius calls on health insurers to stop misinformation and unjustified rate increases. Affordable Care Act will help lower costs and crack down on unjustified rate increases

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius wrote America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), the national association of health insurers, calling on their members to stop using scare tactics and misinformation to falsely blame premium increases for 2011 on the patient protections in the Affordable Care Act. Sebelius noted that the consumer protections and out-of-pocket savings provided for in the Affordable Care Act should result in a minimal impact on premiums for most Americans. Further, she reminded health plans that states have new resources under the Affordable Care Act to crack down on unjustified premium increases.

The text of Sebelius' letter is below.

Ms. Karen Ignagni
President and Chief Executive Officer
America's Health Insurance Plans
601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
South Building, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20004

Dear Ms. Ignagni:

It has come to my attention that several health insurer carriers are sending letters to their enrollees falsely blaming premium increases for 2011 on the patient protections in the Affordable Care Act. I urge you to inform your members that there will be zero tolerance for this type of misinformation and unjustified rate increases.

The Affordable Care Act includes a number of provisions to provide Americans with access to health coverage that will be there when they need it. These provisions were fully supported by AHIP and its member companies. Many of the legislation' s key protections take effect for plan or policy years

beginning on or after September 23, 2010. All plans must comply with provisions such as no lifetime limits, no rescissions except in cases of fraud or intentional misrepresentation of material fact, and coverage of most adult children up to age 26. New plans must comply with additional provisions, such as coverage of preventive services with no cost sharing, access to OB / GYNs without referrals, restrictions on annual limits on coverage, a prohibition on pre-existing condition exclusions of children

(which applies to all group health plans), access to out-of-network emergency room services, and a strengthened appeals process. And health plans that cover early retirees could qualify for reinsurance to sustain that coverage for businesses, workers, and retirees alike.

According to our analysis and those of some industry and academic experts, any potential premium impact from the new consumer protections and increased quality provisions under the Affordable Care Act will be minimal. We estimate that that the effect will be no more than one to two percent. This is consistent with estimates from the Urban Institute (1 to 2 percent) and Mercer consultants (2.3 percent) as well as some insurers' estimates. Pennsylvania' s Highmark, for example, estimates the effect of the

legislation on premiums from 1.14 to 2 percent. Moreover, the trends in health costs, independent of the legislation, have slowed. Employers' premiums for family coverage increased by only 3 percent in 2010 - a significant drop from previous years.

Any premium increases will be moderated by out-of-pocket savings resulting from the law. These savings include a reduction in the "hidden tax" on insured Americans that subsidizes care for the uninsured. By making sure insurance covers people who are most at risk, there will be less

uncompensated care, and, as a result, the amount of cost shifting to those who have coverage today will be reduced by up to $1 billion in 2013. By making sure that high-risk individuals have insurance and emphasizing health care that prevents illnesses from becoming serious, long-term health problems, the law will also reduce the cost of avoidable hospitalizations. Prioritizing prevention without cost sharing could also result in significant savings: from lowering people's out-of-pocket spending to lowering costs due to conditions like obesity, and to increasing worker productivity - today, increased sickness and lack of coverage security reduce economic output by $260 billion per year.

Given the importance of the new protections and the facts about their impact on costs, I ask for your help in stopping misinformation and scare tactics about the Affordable Care Act. Moreover, I want AHIP's members to be put on notice: the Administration, in partnership with states, will not tolerate unjustified rate hikes in the name of consumer protections. Already, my Department has provided 46 states with resources to strengthen the review and transparency of proposed premiums. Later this fall, we will issue a regulation that will require state or federal review of all potentially unreasonable rate increases filed by health insurers, with the justification for increases posted publicly for consumers and employers. We
will also keep track of insurers with a record of unjustified rate increases: those plans may be excluded from health insurance Exchanges in 2014. Simply stated, we will not stand idly by as insurers blame their premium hikes and increased profits on the requirement that they provide consumers with basic protections.

Americans want affordable and reliable health insurance, and it is our job to make it happen. We worked hard to change the system to help consumers. It is my hope we can work together to stop misinformation and misleading marketing from the start.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Sebelius

September Blog Andropause

2010-09-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

We will be CLOSED Monday September 6th for the Labor Day Holiday. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
OFFICE HOURS: I will be out of the office on Saturday September 18th weekend conducting a seminar in San Angelo.
School is back in session so keep an eye out for the kiddies. Their attention spasns sometimes distracts them from their safety. Remember unless you have a couple hundred you like throwing away, cell phones in school zones will cost you.
Please note our office does back to school physicals for sports.

Andropause (male menopause): As we age, it is not uncommon for our sex hormones to decrease. Men experience this as well as women although sometimes our symptoms don't seem to be a noticeable. We don't get hot flashes and have the emotional issues associated with the changed hormones. I decided recently to have mine checked recently since I've moved over the 6th decade line and was starting to experince some of the symptoms. That and a patient's husband also was undergoing replacement with good results. Lo and behold mine were not only low but off the bottom of the range for testosterone (total and free) and DHEA-S. So what are the symptoms of the so-called male menopause or "andropause"? Note: The WHO does not recognize the term but rather "hypogonadism" is the more appropriate term.

"male climacteric" including loss of libido and potencyDiminished sexual desire and erectile quality. In particular, a decrease in nocturnal erections is a significant sign of decreased androgens
Mood changes. This can also be associated with decreases in intellectual activity, fatigue, depression, anger and poor spatial orientation, nervousness, impaired memory, inability to concentrate
decrease in lean body mass, along with decreases in muscle mass and strength.
decrease in body hair.
decrease in bone density resulting in osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can often lead to increased incidence of bone fractures and breaks.
increase in fat surrounding the internal organs
fatigue
insomnia
hot flushes
sweating
Andropause has been observed in association with Alzheimer's disease

If you are having many of the above symptoms, your hormone levels may be low. Lab tests can be ordered by your doctor.

August Blog

2010-08-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

Chiropractic and Personal News

Website: http://www.drjohnriggs.com/ for more information about the practice.
The Joint Commission recently recognized chiropractors as physicians (ACA News, August 2010). This status has also apparently been extended to optometrists as well. Such recognition, although being fought by certain medical organizations, has an impact on health care and how other players view chiropractic. This as well as the phased in license parity of chiropractic doctors in the new health care legislation will make participation easier in future health care policies and programs.
Personal News: Dr. Riggs has recently been named president of the board of directors of the newly formed Suginami Aikido Association and is the technical director for the organization. He holds a 4th degree black belt and teaches seminars 1-2 times a year in Texas. He recently taught a seminar in Victoria TX and prior to that San Antonio TX. He is the senior student (rank wise) of Hiroshi Kato, 8th dan with a planned visit by him to Midland next spring. Dr. Riggs also teaches Aikido as adjunct faculty at Midland College and participates in the MISD PE credit program. He has been a chief instructor (dojo cho) for 15 years teaching at schools in Memphis, TN, Austin, TX, Waco, TX and Midland. Aikido of Midland is recognized by the World Headquarters Aikikai Foundation and Hombu dojo through Suginami Aikikai (Kato sensei's organization). All black belt rank is certified in Japan.

Health News

Swimming may be one of the best exercises for lifelong health.
Short periods of exercise protect telomeres from stress (telomeres play a role in cellular aging).
Increased intake of B6 and B12 linked to less depression.
Omega 3s (fish oils): may help delay age-related hearing loss. It may also increase brain volume.

Sports Injuries

School is soon to start and with it school sports. Dr. Riggs performs sports physicals for students at a nominal cost. He also serves as the chiropractor for athletes at Midland College and has treated baseball, softball, soccer and basketball athletes. He has trained with Dr. Jeff Spencer on laser therapy as used with the Tour De France athletes and is planning advanced laser training in Denver in October. Dr. Riggs offers the following services for athletes (whether weekend or team sports):

Examination and treatment of injuries to the neuromusculoskeletal system (neck, back, joints, shoulders, knees, etc.).
Treatment of repetitive stress and acute injuries (strains/sprains, tendinosis/tendinitis, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer's elbow), repetitive stress injuries, biomechanical problems (pronation), trigger points, etc.
Laser therapy for injury prevention and treatment.
Physiotherapy modalities (electrical stim, interferential, ultrasound, etc.) for injury repair and treatment.
Kinesiotaping and Graston deep tissue instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization for injuries and scar tissue.

Laser Therapy

Dr. Riggs has been using low level laser therapy (3LT) or what is sometimes referred to as cold laser since April. Clinically, he has successfully treated the following conditions:

Neck and back pain.
Sciatica
Nausea (2 years duration resolved in 2 treatments)
Headaches and TMJ problems
Ankle, knee and wrist pain
Carpal tunnel
Plantar fasciitis/heel spurs
Shoulder impingement syndrome/rotator cuff strains
Tendinitis (Knees/Hips)
Arthritis/Cartilage pain
Sprains/Strains
Sports Injuries
Muscle weakness

ADDENDUM

2010-07-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

ADDENDUM:

I am in the process of putting up a new website. Keep in mind it is current a work in progress.

New web address. www.drjohnriggs.com

Dr. Riggs July/August Blog

2010-07-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

Nutrition News:

Chocolate: for all you chocolate lovers the good news is it may reduce heart disease and hypertension.
Green tea may help the eyes combat oxidative stress (glaucoma and other eye diseases).
Vitamin C may also help protect against glaucoma, while a high fat diet increasese the risks of macular degeneration. It also helps decrease blood vessel growth to tumors.
Omega 3 (fish oils): DHA- a component of Omega 3s may help destroy neuroblastoma cells. Omega 3s may decrease chronic disease risks. Fish oils may also expand brain volume and stave off mental decline.
Selenium may decrease diabetes risk.
Vitamin D: is a key nutrient for skin cell growth and replacement. A recemt study also showed that higher levels of vitamin D was associated with improved physical performance.
Resveratrol (in grapes) may help chronic colitis sufferers.
Obesity: has been linked to the availability of unhealthy foods. The spice saffron may help curb appetite by increasing serotonin levels.

Hormones:

Male Menopause: low testosterone can cause low sex drive, low energy and decreased enthusiasm for life. Levels drop as we age and this decline may have an impact on men's overall function, performance and longevity. Male Hormone Replacement Therapy may help stave off the effects of age-related decreases in testosterone.

Medical ID Cards:

Medical ID cards (e.g., 911 Medical ID Card, 911 Medical ID Medallion) is a preprogrammed USB that holds all your medical information and opens up in a Windows based program. If you have an extensive health history background, this can save you time and energy and provide valuable information quickly for health care providers.

June/July Blog

2010-07-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 5th we will be closed for the 4th of July.

Sorry for any inconvenience. If you have an emergency, please call the office for a contact number for off hours. I will be in the area.

Not much of a blog this month since I have been in the process of moving.

SAFETY on the 4th.

Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
Children and fireworks do not mix.
Drugs and fireworks do not mix.
Drugs and alcohol also apply to operating motor vehicles, boats, and any other motorized apparatus.

Be careful not careless and you will have a safe and healthy holiday.

I'm still getting good results with the LASER. I like this modality. I've helped nausea which was non-responsive to medical treatment (resolved in 2 treatments after 2 years of it). It has also helped/resolved: carpal tunnel, shoulder pain, knee pain, shingles, weak muscles, foot pain, plantar fasciitis, wrist pain and stiffness, headaches, neck pain, lower back pain, bruises (decreased), pulled muscles, and other conditions.

May you holiday be safe and relaxing. We all need time to disconnect.

Dr. Riggs' April/May Blog

2010-05-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

Taxes are done so I'm back on.

NEW SERVICES
(Laser Therapy/Ionic Detoxifying Foot Baths)

LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY (LLLT or 3LT):
I'm excited about a new therapy modality I am now offering. I trained recently with Dr. Jeff Spencer, the chiropractor responsible for keeping Lance Armstrong and his Tour de France team healthy during their multiple straight wins (7 for Lance, 8 for the team). Dr. Spencer used the Erchonia LLLT or 3LT (cold laser) to treat Lance and other professional athletes such as Tiger Woods and many others. I have purchased the same laser he uses and have been using it with very good results for almost a month. Even though the equipment was quite expensive, I have made treatment very affordable as a cash service since insurance carriers and medicare do not cover it. Currently, as far as I know, I am the only one in Midland using the laser.

There are many conditions that can be treated with 3LT (cold laser) and so far, I have treated the following conditions with the laser:

Muscle weakness found through muscle testing
Arthritis
Carpal tunnel and hand pain
Neck and Back Pain
Shoulder Pain
TMJ problems
Tendonitis/Bursitis
Knee Pain
Tennis Elbow
Foot Pain
Meniere's/tinnitus
Sciatica/radiculopathy

DETOXIFYING FOOT BATHS: (Using the EBPro)
I have also added ionic detoxifying foot baths as a cash service. Many of my patients were driving as far as Abilene to receive such services. Treatment times (18-25 minutes) vary but we have tried to make this affordable as well, plus the time and gas savings of having to drive out of the area. It helps pull out the toxins we build up from daily exposure. TREATMENT PRECAUTIONS: Cannot be used on patients with-pacemaker, organ transplant, arrhythmia, heart regulating medication, pregnant or lactating females, patients with open wounds. Excess use can cause dehydration, fatigue, increased blood pressure, dizziness, headache , or upset stomach. Diabetic and patients with low blood sugar should eat a meal prior to treatment.

NUTRITION NEWS:

Lowering Heart Attack Risk Naturally: chronic inflammation in the body is a risk factor for many diseases including heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimer's and many others. One indicator of inflammation in the body is C-Reactive Protein (CRP). Studies have suggested that CRP may even be a greater risk factor than high cholesterol in evaluating heart attack and stroke risk. Crestor, a statin drug, has been found effective in lower risk for those with moderate LDL levels and excess CRP. However, Crestor has its issues including major cardiovascular events.

A multi-method approach to lower CRP:

Vitamin C (1000 mg/day)
Decreased high-glycemic carbohydrates
Intake of cholesterol lowering foods (almonds, soy protein, fiber, plant sterols) High fiber tends to lower the risk of elevated CRP
For men, balancing the free testosterone/estrogen levels (decreases inflammation and belly fat).
Dietary supplements suppressing inflammation: curcumin, Irvingia, vitamin K, Luteolin, fish oil, borage oil (GLA), acetyl-L-carnitine, Vitamin C, theaflavins, soluble fiber, CoQ10, isoflavones.
Good dental health (periodontal disease increases CRP)
Decrease homocysteine levels
17 Daggers of Arterial Disease: low blood EPA/DHA (fish oils), Elevated CRP, Excess LDL, Excess Insulin, Low HDL (good cholesterol), High Glucose, Nitric Oxide Deficit. Excess Estrogen, Excess Triglycerides, Low Free Testosterone, Excess Fibrinogen, Excess Homocysteine, Hypertension, Low Vitamin K, Excess Cholesterol, Oxidized LDL (from Life Extension Foundation).

March Blog Update on Health

2010-05-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Office Note: Note: I will be closed on Saturday March 6 and March 20 for seminars.

Heart Health (from WebMD): Men and women experience different symptoms when having a heart attack. Time is muscle, so early recognition.

Men Heart Attack (MI) Symptoms:  chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue are the most typical symptoms for men.

Women:   these heart attack warning signs for women should be considered carefully.
Major symptoms prior to MI             Major symptoms during the MI

•Unusual fatigue                                            •Shortness of breath
•Difficulty sleeping                                        •Weakness
•Shortness of breath                                      •Unusual fatigue
•Indigestion                                                   •Cold sweat
•Anxiety                                                        •Dizziness

Major symptoms prior to heart attack Major symptoms during the heart attack

•Unusual fatigue •Shortness of breath

•Difficulty sleeping •Weakness

•Shortness of breath •Unusual fatigue

•Indigestion •Cold sweat

•Anxiety •Dizziness

February Blog on Aging and Nutrition

2010-02-01T14:23:00.000-08:00

Marty's surgery went well and she is recovering nicely.

Nutrition/Alternative Medicine News:

Mimicing caloric restriction which aids in longevity through nutrition. 5 substances showing the most promise to mimic caloric restriction include: resveratrol, pterostilbene, quercetin, grape seed extract, black tea extract. These substances help prevent cancer, enhance glucose control, control inflammation, , optimize fat and carbohydrate metabolism
Excess calorie intake bloats our bloodstream with glucose, insulin, cholesterol, fat, and other products that are pro-inflammatory and predispose us to cancer, stroke, heart attacks, inflammation, and senility as well as other age related problems (Life Extension Foundation).
Carbohydrate Overload-as we age we are more likely to suffer from impaired glucose tolerance-we can't effectively utilize the sugars we eat. It makes us prone to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome (central obesity is one element). In our excessive carbohydrate American diet it may be necessary to inhibit enzymes (amylase, glucosidase, sucrase) to regain glycemic control. Acarbose (low cost drug) controls glucosidase, a nutrient compound InSea controls amylase and glucosidase, and white kidney bean extract and irvingia controls amylase while l-arabinose controls sucrase. To combat carbohydrate overload your fasting glucose should be below 86 mg/dL.
Excess glucose: converts to fat, increases triglycerides and C-Reactive proteins, deceases HDL (healthy cholesterol), increases blood pressure, may damage kidneys, increases risk for certain cancers and injures the vascular system.
Restricting calories is the key to taking care of the above problems but what about hunger? Pinolenic acid (pine cone extract) decreases appetite without stimulants. It reduces the desire to eat and makes you satisfied earlier.
Other options to emulate caloric restriction: orlistat, acarbose, optimized irvingia and black tea. Obesity is responsible for 100K cancers annualy.
Omega 3 fatty acids boot the benefits of glucosamine. I'm vindicated. I have been recommending a supplement triad of glucosamine + boswellic acids + fish oils (Omega 3s) for years. Boswellia because it has anti-inflammatory properties as does fish oils. So my combination enhances the effectives of one component. I usually recommend Osteo-biflex since it has glucosamine and boswellia (5-Loxin) in it.
Vitamin D: low levels are associated with heart disaes, stroke, premature death and heart failure. Long-term doses of D are well tolerated over an 8 week period.
Cancer Prevention Nutrition: green tea may protect against oral cancer; soy shows promise as a colon cancer prevention; resveratrol may serve as a chemopreventative reagent for breast cancer. Vitamin D may lower colorectal cancer.
Lungs may be protected by anti-oxidants during flu season.
CoQ10: key to heart health. I also recommend it to counter the muscle side-effects of statin drugs. Ubiquinol for is key. CoQ10 also help counteract the stress to muscles after exercise.
Green Tea Extract may reduce uterine fibroids.
Low carb diet lowers blood pressure.

Medical News:

FDA has approved milnacipran, a dual serotonin- and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor, for the management of fibromyalgia. Medscape Medical News
Toilet seat dermatitis (butt rash) may be making a comeback due to harsh chemical cleaners and exotic wooden seats. It causes a rash in the buttocks and upper thighs. To avoid: use seat covers in public rest rooms, avoid harsh cleaners and go back to plastic seats.

January Blog and Health News

2010-01-08T14:52:00.000-08:00

Scheduling Stuff: I will be closed Friday January 22nd and Saturday January 23rd. Marty is having surgery. (Friday will most likely be all day but we don't have the schedule yet. February and March will bring some seminar activity but should only affect Saturday's. I will keep you posted.

Happy New Year to everyone. I do hope it was a safe holiday season. Marty and I enjoyed a week of vacation visiting family in snowy Michigan (2 feet deep) and almost did not make it back due to lake effect snow (11 inches the night before we left).

HEALTH and NUTRITION NEWS

The Mediterranean Diet is considered one of the more healthy diets for cardiovascular health. However, most peiople do not get enough olive oil which has polyphenols which enhance its healthy effects. The diet mainly consists of abundent plant foods, olive oil, fish, red wine and other substances rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Ginko biloba apparently has protective effects from radiation. So if you plan on getting yourself nuked soon stock up on the ginko.
Higher vitamin D levels in older women seems to ensure longer survival.
Catechins in tea help promote fat loss in overweight individuals.
Lower vitamin D levels before menopause predict hypertension and predicts higher heart and stroke related deaths in blacks.
Researchers estimate that 40% of Americans are deficient in vitamin B12.

FROM CHIROPRACTIC AND MEDICINE

Macromastia (large breasts) leads to numerous problems for women. Complaints of neck and upper back pain, thoracic outlet syndrome, low back pain, headaches and muscle aches and pains are common. Soft tissue deformity from bra straps undoubtedly damages the underlying fascia and muscles as well as the skin. A recent study showed that reduction mammaplasty (breast reduction) decreased back compressive loads by 35% and improved dysfunction and pain related to travel. Now, good luck on getting an insurance carrier to authorize it as medically necessary.
Headaches: The International Headache Society (IHS) has classified headaches into two broad categories, primary and secondary. Primary headaches are headaches with no known organic cause and are classified into 4 groups 1) migraine 2) tension-type 3) cluster and 4) other primary headaches (1). The subject of this paper, episodic tension-type headache (ETTH), is one of three sub-categories of tension-type headache. The others being chronic tension-type headache and probable tension-type headache. Treatment/Prevention: stress/tension, menstruation, weather, TMJ problems, trigger points, and water deprivation have been implicated as well as, to a lesser extent, sleep deprivation, frequent traveling, consumption of alcohol, withdrawal from caffeine, smoking, hunger, glare, relaxation after stress, exhaustion and odors. Treatment includes avoiding triggers as well as treating problems such as mechanical neck joint dysfunction, TMJ problems and trigger points. These problems can be effectively treated with manipulative therapy and soft tissue therapy or physiotherapy.
Chiropractic care is being expanded to include more Veterans and military facilities. DCs are highly qualified to take care of the many non-surgical soft tissue and joint problems resulting from carrying heavy field packs and the stresses and strains of combat.

Holiday schedule update

2009-12-20T19:15:00.001-08:00

I goofed looking at the days. We will be closed Christmas Eve day (Thursday) since we are normally only open in the morning.

December News/Holiday Schedule

2009-12-08T14:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from Marty and myself. (In Norwegian, Gladelig Jule and Godt Nytt Ar).

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE: we will be CLOSED from 12/25/09 to 1/2/10. We will also close at 4:00 PM on Christmas Eve. We will be taking a week off and visiting my family in Michigan (Marty is obviously not a yankee).

HEALTH CARE NEWS:

Breast Biopsies: A new test called "Elastography" looks at the flexibility of breast tissue and may reduce the need for biopsies. Breast ultrasounds spot more cancers.
Boost your immune system with the following: elderberry, button mushrooms, acai berry, oysters, watermellon, cabbage, almonds, grapefruit, wheat germ, low-fat yogurt, garlic, spinach, tea (black or green), sweet potatoe and broccoli.
Lung Cancer: 90% of lung cancers are caused by tobacco use with over 4000 cancer causing chemicals in tobacco smoke. Other causes: passive smoke, asbestos, radon gas, air pollution, familial predisposition, lung diseases. This is a cause close to me since my father died at 46 of lung cancer-he was a lifelong smoker. What a waste-he never got to see most of his grandkids. There are two main types of lung cancers: small cell and non-small cell. Small cell cancers are about 20%. Non-small cell (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, mixed) make up 80%. Small cell are aggressive and metastasize readily. Other types are less common. What are the symptoms: chronic cough, blood in the sputum, repeated bronchitis/lung infections, breathing difficulty, unexplained or rapid weight loss and/or fatigue. IGNORING SUCH SERIOUS SYMPTOMS WON'T MAKE IT GO AWAY!!! I have heard way too often "I don't want to get checked out because I'm afraid of what they might find." Early detection is what determines whether you will survive or not. Quit smoking now and improve your chances of living to see your kids grow up and your grand kids as well. If you stop soon enough you may not have to drag around an oxygen bottle either. Brutal? Yup! But there are a lot of ways to get help: medications, hypnosis, acupuncture. Trying to quit is not quitting. You must become a non-smoker in your mind or you will always find excuses to light one up. As to the dippers - the word is leukoplakia-pre-cancerous cells. Cancer of the mouth or lip is a really unattractive way of dying as well. I've seen leukoplakia in the mouths of 20-30 year olds. All I can say is incredible. The mind set that IT WON'T HAPPEN TO Me means you expect to die young enough that you won't get cancer. Spare your loved ones the agony of watching you die a horrible death-figure out a way to quit. If this section upsets or offends you, I apologize for making you aware of the realities of tobacco abuse.
DEPRESSION: That last section probably depressed some of you. Sorry. The holiday seasons are often a time when people experience depression. There could be many reasons: loss of a loved one who won't be there for the first time, illness, missing family, financial worries (especially in this economy), loss of job, less sunlight, break up of a relationship, stress, to name a few. There are many things you can do to help lessen depression. Connect with family and friends-new media like facebook, myspace, twitter, etc., offer social media contact readily. Find a new interest or hobby. Avoid environments that are depressive. Get out doors as much as you can. Don't spend beyond your means. If times are tough for you, remember "this too will pass." If your depression becomes overwelming, seek medical help. There are many anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications that can help you get over tough times. Some need to be on such medications permanently due to altered brain chemistry.
CELL PHONES: On again, off again. Another study out now suggests that cell phones don't lead to cancer. Use an ear piece if you are worried-it will make you a safer driver anyway.
STEM CELLS: stem cells may actually be able to repair damaged hearts.

FROM THE WORLD FUTURE SOCIETY: Some pressing issues we need to address in the next decade.

How do we deliver inexpensive and reliable health care to a rapidly aging population?
How does a civilization maintain economic growth and prosperity in the wake of overdevelopment, misuse of wealth, and profligate exploitation of resources?
Will the Internet bring democracy and freedom to the people of the world who live under authoritarian rule? Or will nondemocratic regimes appropriate the power of information technology to spy on their own citizens?
What’s the best method for educating our children for an ever-more competitive and demanding economic environment?

November Blog

2009-11-02T12:58:00.000-08:00

OK. Some scheduling notes. I will be closed SATURDAY 11/7/09 and will close early at 5 PM on FRIDAY 11/6/09 to catch a flight to Houston. Also, I will be closed on the Thanksgiving weekend Thursday, Friday and Saturday as I am going to California to see my grandsons and daughter. Have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. I will be back the following Monday normal hours.

Alternative Health/Nutrition News:

Energy Supplements: boosting one's energy usually requires different approaches. You can use stimulants, boost metabolism, or increase calories. Stimulants in general work. However, there's the down side of crashing when they wear off. Many work no better than a cup of coffee or tea. Metabolism boosters work if you are deficient or in certain conditions. However, things lkie C0Q10, carnitine, etc. May be of little use to boost metabolism. They do work in a sense by boosting the energy process. Increased calories work but only short term. They can increase your blood pressure and blood sugar. This can cause your insulin to spike. Energy drinks as an example are high in carbs especially sugars and there is the issue of how effective they are vs. the complications (weight gain, diabetes, etc.). Several combine caffeine and sugars to really light your fire-then you crash.
Future Medicine: medical tourism is getting noticed. When one can get an operation by American Doctors for $30K including transportation which would cost $400K here. It's projected to be a $40 billion business. Remote devices may be able to monitor your health via the internet. Nanotechnology will allow us to fix our organs from the inside out by repairing sick cells. ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE will become mainstream. 37% of US hospitals now integrate complementary and alternative services with conventional procedures. Video games may be used to improve mental health. The internet will help put medical specialists within reach (one doctor has already dictated complicated surgery from 3500 miles). New artificial skin could be rapidly produced. CENTANARIANS are on the rise. Us older folks, at least the ones who live to 100 will continue growing quickly and move from 1 in 10K to 1 in 5K of the population. Professions in general and in healthcare will become hyperspecialized. The hottest healthcare jobs: home health aides, personal and home care aides, and veternary techs.

Medical News:

Use of ACE inhibitors may cause some liver toxicity (hepatotoxicity).
Low doses of naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn, Naprelan) may increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal uclers. MY NOTE: If you are using an NSAID on a regular basis the risk for ulcers is increased signficantly. I personally think this is under reported due to people taking meds like over the counter prilosec, tums, etc. to mask the stomach complaints. My alternative is an anti-inflammatory diet (cut out the red meats and complex carbs) plus boswellic acids and fish oils. To my patients with arthritis I recommend Osteo-biflex (glucosamine + boswellic acids or 5-loxin) and fish oils to control inflammation.
From the American Heart Association, "Diabetes tends to lower "good" cholesterol and raise triglyceride and "bad" cholesterol levels, which increases the risk for heart disease and stroke."
Some Key Health Tests for Women

Breast cancer exam
Cervical cancer exam
Skin cancer exam
HIV screening
Cholesterol screening
Blood pressure
Bone density testing

Washing your hands. Men and women react differently to signs suggesting they wash their hands. Women tend to respond better to signs telling them the risk factors of not doing it. Men reacted better to be told the disgusting consequences like: soap it off or eat it later. Interesting.
Complications of Diabetes on the small blood vessels (microvascular): Diabetes has considerable effects of the small vessel circulation and can cause problems with the kidneys, eyes and extremities due to accelerate atherosclerosis.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a major concern. This causes loss of sensation in the toes and fingers. In the feet, it can lead to things like ulcers and gangrene left untreated. It is the result of a progressive loss of nerve fibers. It may give a "stocking and glove" appearance. It can also affect the nerves to internal organs (autonomic nerves) and affect the gastrointestinal tract, bladder and blood vessels. Symptoms can be sensory or motor related and can affect awareness of touch, temperature, vibration (one of the earliest things to be lost), proprioception (balance or position sense). Lack of awareness of one's extremities can lead to undetected injuries. An ingrown toenail for example could become infected and gangrenous. Loss of nerve supply to a joint can also cause destruction of the joint (Charcot joint).
Diabetic vascular complications can also lead to erectile dysfunction.
Diabetic retinopathy can lead to progressive loss of vision and blindness. Microaneurysms occur and fats and protein exudates leak into the retina. Damage to the macular leading to macular edema also leads to blindness.
Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of kidney failure. These changes occur slowly over time and may show up as increased albumin in the urine, decreased glomerular filtration rates and hypertension.

Going Green:

compact florescents (CFLs) can save significantly on electrical bills. They are a bit more expensive upfront than florescent bulbs but will usually pay for themselves in a few months.
Window blankets can be used to keep the heat in during the winter and the cold out during the summer. Essentially, these are made by getting the foil type insulation that comes in rolls with the bubbles between layers (air barrier). To make the blanket more attractive you can sew on a covering of cloth. Velcro can be used to attach the blanket over windows during the day in summer and during the day or at night in winter. It forms a reflective barrier, reflecting internal heat back in and external cold out. The blankets can be removed and put on easily with the velcro.
Sealing doors and windows with weather stripping will help keep leaks down and cold air and critters out. It reduces your electric bills. Sealing leaky areas such as switches and outlets also helps.

October addendum

2009-09-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

My office, Alternative Chiropractic Solutions, is a sponsor of Gabriel Tavarez's Midland Fitness 12-week your best body challenge. We have fliers in the office. It begins October 3rd and gives a 12 week nutrition and exercise program to help lose weight. You get a free Best Body Orientation, 10 group fitness training sessions, and a complete 12 week Transformation System including exercise and nutition programs to follow on your own with their help. They do require a $55 charitable donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital at Orientation to participate. Go to http://www.yourbestbodychallenge.com/ for more information.

Dr. Riggs' October Blog on Health

2009-09-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

Chiropractic, Alternative Healthcare, Medical, Nutrition News:

COLON CANCER. As one of the leading causes of deaths (# 2) and striking more than a million people every year, it is important to prevent it. I recently underwent this rather personal experience as a preventative, which I should have done some time ago. Although many thing colonoscopy is highly accurate, a recent study fount a 60-70 percent mortality risk decrease. Prevention is the key. Too many people have advanced forms of cancer by the time it is detected which seriously limits their treatment options. Advanced form survival rates have improved from less than 9 months to about 24 months but the progress is not enough. Some low-cost nutritional options may provide prevention benefits. Plant polyphenols such as resveratrol, curcumin (spice), EGCG, quercetin, fish oils,, vitamins and trace elements (E, D, selenium) may significantly reduce or eliminate cancer changes. Chemoprevention, nutritional supplements and health lifestyle adjustments can help reduce the risk. Foods that help colon health include:
• Plant based: polyphenols-berries, tea, grapes/wine, olive oil, chocolate/cocoa, walnuts, peanuts, pomegranates, and most other fruits and vegetables. Powerful members include-curcumin, Resveratrol, quercetin, green tea, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).
• Foods fueling colong health: garlic, cruciferous vegetables and sprouts (broccoli).
• Cancer fighting nutrients: Vitamins E, D, calcium, Folate, B6, B12, selenium, omega 3 fatty acids (DHA, EPA).

SCIATICA, NEURITIS, NUMBNESS, TINGLING, ARM PAIN, LEG PAIN, THORACIC OUTLET, CARPAL TUNNEL, and PLANTAR FASCIITS. For Radiating Neck and Back Pain, are drugs and surgery the only solution? It depends. For cases, where herniated discs or bone spurs are pressing on the nerves or spinal cord surgery may be necessary. Given the risks, however, surgery should always be a last resort once non-surgical conservative methods have been tried. Nerve problems can cause pain, weakness and dysfunction.

What are the options? Traditional medical options include medications for pain and inflammation, physical therapy, and epidural steroid injections. Conservative options include manipulation therapy (chiropractic), traction, nutritional anti-inflammatory methods, rehab, and where possible release or mobilization of entrapped nerves (nerve mobilization or neurodynamics).

How does nerve release or mobilization work? Determining the cause is important. If certain problems are found such as a herniated disc, degenerative disc, or thoracic outlet syndrome for example, appropriate treatment for the condition is in order as well as specific treatment for the nerve. Isolation of whether the nerve is failing to glide, slide or stretch as needed determines the approach. Nerve tension tests and standard orthopedic and neurological tests and maneuvers to determine the cause help the clinician determine the appropriate method of treatment. Combined treatment methods may be necessary such as exercises, clinician intervention, manipulation, strengthening, and structural correction to achieve the best outcome. Normally, such problems develop gradually and may take some time to resolve. Scar tissue and adhesions may need to be resolved and healed. In my practice, centralization of the pain and symptom relief are key indicators as to patient progress. If we can move the pain, or other radiating symptoms such as numbness and tingling, towards the spine, progress is being made. Treatment progress can be slow and frustrating for the patient in the beginning. Nerves do not heal fast when traumatized. However, the risks are much less and the costs are significantly lower with less invasive methods. If you would like more information, give me a call at 432-570-8792 or e-mail me at aikidoc1@yahoo.com and I’ll gladly answer your questions.

Now if the plantar fasciitis/heel spurs threw you as to how that could be nerve pain, here’s an answer. Sometimes it is due to inflammation of the nerves on the inside of the arch and mimics the pain from a spur. Another words, it can be misdiagnosed as due to a spur, even with an x-ray showing a spur. The treatment will fail if the nerve is inflamed.

The top 10 diseases that affect men
• Heart attack and cardiac arrest
• Hypertension
• High cholesterol
• Strokes
• Diabetes
• Lung cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Prostate disease
• Testicular disease/cancer
• Depression

Other Health and Nutrition News:

National cancer institute reports that CoQ10 may slow tumor growth and help in cancer treatment. Animal studies have found it boosts the immune system and helps fight certain infections and cancers; it protects the hearts of animals given anticancer drugs that damage the heart; it may stop cancer cells from growing. It may also help cardiac endurance.
Miscellaneous: DHEA helps improve bone density; vitamin D improves brain function; vitamin E lowers prostate cancer risk; magnesium decreases blood pressure.; stroke risk is lower among tea drinkers. green tea extract helps fight leukemia; B vitamins may help autism; high triglycerides are tied to diabetic nerve damage; ginger reduces nausea in cancer patients.
Inflammation plays a central role in cardiovascular disease, obesity and metabolic syndrome (LEF).
Micronized diosmin may help with lower leg circulatory problems such as chronic venous disease, lymphedema, venous leg ulcers, and improve varicose and spider veins. They also help hemorrhoids.
The Mediterranean diet helps control diabetes.
A new brain trauma sign appears to be an early indication of brain trauma. It has been noticed in athletes and is a fencer like position. After the person has been knocked out and they hit the ground their hands assume a position as if they are in a fencing stance with one hand forward to the other. This may be more reliable than some of the other neurological examinations.
The European Journal of Cardiology recently recommend that low dose aspirin as a primary preventative was not recommended for prevention of cardiovascular events due to potential complications.
The CDC is urging vaccination for H1N1 (formerly know as swine flu) due to its continuation throughout the summer and the large number of cases in the southeast. Here’s the website: http://www.flu.gov/.

To prevent the flu the CDC recommends:
• Cover your cough
• Wash your hands frequently
• If you have a fever, stay home for at least 24 hrs after that fever has ended
• Get a vaccine when it becomes available

From the FUTURIST
10 Forces Driving Business Futures:

China emergence as world's largest economic power
Global Demographic and migration shifts
Energy and water shortages
Managing waste, reusing products
Falling Education standards, less-skilled thought leaders
Brand relationships intensify
Instant gratification shopping
On-demand media
Customization, personalization, and community experiences
Youth rules

Disclaimer: The above blog is produced purely for information purposes and its not intended for recommendations for treatment. Please see your health care provider on any health issues.

September Health Blog

2009-08-17T13:03:00.000-07:00

Natural Health News:
Optimists live longer. Speaking of living longer-a recent study shows both men and women in the US are now living longer.

Foods that help lower cholesterol: fatty fish, walnuts, oatmeal, and oat bran, and foods fortified with plant sterols or stanols. Green tea may also lower your bad cholesterol.
Gentle and regular exercise can help fibromyalgia and arthritis patients get their lives back
Fibromyalgia symptoms: Muscle aching all over or at specific points (neck, back, knee, shoulder); multiple tender/trigger pints (11/18 locations). Risk factors include other inflammatory diseases (lupus, Sjogren's, rheumatoid arthritis). female (80% women), ages 20-50. No known cause.
Vibration may help with muscle stiffness, shaking and sleep in Parkinson's patients. Charcot and later Tourette found that vibration helped many Parkinson's patients but this fact was lost as a possible treatment later. A recent study in Germany found significant positive benefits. Tremor and rigidity scores improved by 25 and 24% with whole body vibration (WBV)
Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F) may help with rheumatoid arthritis.
Mediterraean Diet plus exercise-may help keep Alzheimer's at bay.
Psoriasis may be treated at home with Ultraviolet lamps.

10 Things Not to Do with Swine Flu

Don't expect a season flu shot to protect against swine flu.
Don't expect a face mask to protect you.
Don't hold or attend a swine flu party
Don't forget planning
Don't forget to clean with household disinfectants
Don't get complacent
Don't panic
Don't leave home if you have flu like symptoms
Don't rush to the ER. The CDC recommends a trip for any of the following- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, Sudden dizziness, Confusion, Severe or persistent vomiting, Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough. Having a high fever for more than three days is another danger sign, according to the WHO.
If you are a parent, don't forget to teach your kids swine flu protection

Risk Factors For Osteoporosis:

Lactose intolerance
Asthma
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Beast cancer
Anorexia
Diabetes

5 common causes of pelvic pain

Uterine Fibroids
Menorrhagia (vaginal bleeding)
Uterine prolapse
Endometriosis
Chronic Pelvic pain.

August 2009 Blog

2009-08-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

Natural Health News:

A recent pilot study with Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa found chiropractic care helps reduce health care costs and the need for surgery.
Obese patients spend 42% more a year on healthcare costs than normal weight counterparts. Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes, some cancers and cardiovascular disease. Obesity is higher in hispanics and blacks and women have a higher obesity rate. It is more prevalent in the South and Midwest.
Biology News Net, July 30, 2009. Resveratrol {found in red wine and supplements} may be harnessable as a treatment for inflammatory diseases, such as appendicitis, peritonitis, and systemic sepsis, and may also lead to new resveratrol-based drugs that are even more effective, experiments by Scientists from Scotland and Singapore with mice suggest. They also found that resveratrol used a one-two punch to stop inflammation in the mice by preventing the body from creating two different molecules known to trigger inflammation, sphingosine kinase and phospholipase D.

News of Medicine:

Stopping smoking after surgery greatly reduces complications and lowers mortality risk in postoperative patients.
Antidepressants are effective for various types of chronic pain, such as physical pain associated with depression, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia.
Now this one is depressing. They actually found an explanation why smokers are lower in body mass index. There is a fat regulating gene that is up regulated in the body. Now that doesn't mean smoking is a valid weight loss approach. Good news. From the University of Wisconsisn: The recent move by the Obama administration to put tobacco regulation under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration was hailed by leading tobacco experts as another step forward in the 100-year march toward eradicating tobacco consumption in the United States. Tobacco use has declined from 42% of the U.S. adult population in 1965 to 20% in 2007, thanks to taxation, restrictions on advertising, and warning labels, according to researchers Michael Fiore and Timothy Baker of the University of Wisconsin–Madison. To accelerate this trend, the researchers urge regulators to increase excise taxes on tobacco, eliminate nicotine in all tobacco products, ban all cigarette advertising (including sponsorships and other promotional activities), and provide counseling and medication for every smoker who wants to quit. "The progress made in reducing tobacco use over the last 50 years should in no way temper our commitment to further reductions," says Fiore. "If appropriate steps are taken, a tobacco-free nation can be achieved within a few decades."
Tick season: seveal serious diseases like rocky mountain spotted fever and Lyme's disease can result from tick bites-especially if frequenting wooded areas or rustic areas with deer. West Texas is not too bad but other areas may be risk factors.

Some Future Thoughts:

In addition to nanotechnology assisting in health care there are other possibilities for the future. Vitual physicians (holographs), internet connected lab results: your home blood sugar results fed to the internet, your bathroom scale giving your doctor weight information, blue-tooth/WIFI connections providing heart monitoring in real time. The technology is there in many cases and rapidly developing in others-the main obstacle will be people. Now, I'm not sure you'll ever be able to get an adjustment on line. A major social-technological question for me, is what happens to the role of human contact in the health model? As technology has evolved, doctors are interacting and talking with their patients less and less in many cases and my experience. I often get asked by patients to interpret their test results for them or explain them. Over reliance on technology takes the judgment and thinking out of the interaction-seeing the patient has a lot of important information. One patient, I had for example, had an ear infection and dizziness. She told the doctor she thought she had an ear infection, but because of the dizziness the doctor refused to look in the ear-even when asked-and ordered a MRI. I told her to find another doctor-she did. She had to have drains put in her ears and I gave her some exercises to reposition the little inner ear granules and she was fine. Testing should not replace judgment and examination-another case: $40,000 in testing for dizziness and no results. Patient had to stop driving truck. My treatment $90- treated for that same benign vertigo with exercises due to prior ear issues and some upper neck manipulation-3 treatments and he went back to driving truck. And we wonder why medical care is high.

July Blog

2009-06-29T07:24:00.000-07:00

July Blog Update
by Dr. John H. Riggs
Alternative Chiropractic Solutions, 570-8792

HEALTH AND NUTRITION NEWS

Cervicogenic Headaches (the migraine mimicker)

Migraines are generally considered vascular headaches.
A headache that can mimic the migraine is a "cervicogenic headache". Cervicogenic headaches are caused by dysfunction (generally locking) of the spinal joints in the upper neck (generally C1-2 but also the occiput C1 and C2-3 joints as well). This headache can be severe, unilateral and cause auras, dizziness, nausea and light sensitivity. It is characterized by pain starting in the base of the skull and sometimes going up the back of the head to the eyes. There is considerble tenderness under the base of the skull. Other conditions need to be ruled out initially. Treatment consists of manipulation (traditional or low force, soft tissue massage, traction, and therapy modalities of electrical stimulation and ice. Several treatments may be necessary to resolve the headache and home therapy and home traction may also be helpful. Although medications may be helpful with the pain and inflammation (see risks last blog), the headache will return until normal joint motion is restored and the muscle spasms resolved.

Rib Pain (costovertebral pain)

The ribs insert at the junction of the costovertebral joint- vertebra and rib junction-and can cause considerable pain. Motor vehicle accidents, improper sleeping, sports, repetitive stress, among others can result in locking of the ribs. The most common problem areas are between the shoulder blades and can cause a stiff neck and also pain on breathing. It can also cause chest pain as well. If a recent cold or flu was present, pleurisy or pleuritis may need to be ruled out. Patients with scoliosis often have a lot of rib pain due to the stress put on the rib cage from the twisting of the spine.

Treatment: the most effective treatment in my experience is to simply restore the rib motion and treat with ice.

Miscellaneous health news

craving sweets can be a sign of depression
skipping breakfast can cause you to get fat by tricking your brain into craving higher calorie food.
Alternatives to flexeril: Skullcap and valarian root are anti-spasmodic herbs. Bromelain taken between meals and eicosapentaenoic acid (fish oil) are good natural anti-inflammatories. Ice and massage are also beneficial in reducing muscle spasm and inflammation.
Tai Chi has been found to help ease pain in many arthritis patients.
Vinegar appears to turn on the fat burning gene.
FDA is concerned about the overuse of acetaminophen (Tylenol) causing liver damage.
Artificial sweeteners are linked to a 2 fold increase in diabetes.

News From Medicine

Lower blood pressure without medication. These strategies are not new -- they include weight reduction, increase in physical activity, restriction of sodium, following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, tobacco cessation, and reduction of alcohol intake. Stress management, device-guided therapeutic breathing, patient education.

June Blog

2009-05-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

SCIATICA:

What is Sciatica? Sciatica is pain radiating down the back of the leg. It is frequently described as a deep tooth ache like pain and sometimes burns. It may be accompanied by numbness and tingling and leg weakness.

What Causes Sciatica? Sciatica is the result of irritation and inflammation of the sciatic nerve. There are a lot of potential problems that can cause sciatic pain: herniated disc, narrowing of the spine, osteoarthritic spurs and joint narrowing, entrapment syndromes (piriformis muscle for example), trauma, lack of proper nerve movement or stretch, cysts/tumors and mechanical joint pain.

How is it Treated? Diagnostic and examination techniques are used to isolate the problem such as x-rays, MRI. If nerve root tension signs are absent, the cause is likely outside the spine.

a. Medical Treatment: surgical intervention, physical therapy, medication, epidural steroids.

b. Chiropractic/Alternative Treatment: manipulation, flexion/distraction, McKenzie exercises, nerve mobilization, physical therapy modalities (electrical pain control, stretching, exercises. deep tissue therapy). Surgical referral for non-responsive cases may be necessary.

Prognosis: guarded. Many people progress to totally pain free in a short time and others may end up with intermittent or permanent residuals.

Caution is always necessary in the case of sciatic pain if progression results in loss of bowel or bladder control, saddle anesthesia, or worsening symptoms.

Restless Leg Syndrome:

What is it? Restless leg syndrome is the sensation of needing to move the legs and may be accompanied by abnormal sensations such as prickling, tingling, crawling sensations.
What causes it? Many conditions can mimic the sensations such as arthritis, varicose veins, interittent claudication, side effects of medications, maintaining uncomfortable positions, and leg cramps. Causes may be linked to kidney failure, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, nerve damage, anemia, and Parkinson's disease.
How is it treated? Medically, treatment consists of medications that are dopamine agonists, anti-convulsives, sedative-hypnotics, opiods. Look for other underlying disease conditions that may mimic RLS (diabetes, anemia).
Are alternative treatments available?

Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine.
Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable, and use it only for sleeping, not for watching TV.
Get regular exercise.
Massage the leg or the arm, or use heat or ice packs.

PAIN MEDS

NSAIDs. I'm vindicated. Having had previous experience with minor use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) in the form of aspirin and ibuprofen and my wife getting acute gastritis (with at $3,000+ bill for an ER trip) I have been harping on the risks of these medications on the stomach/GI track. The World Health Organization estimated somewhere in the neighborhood of 50% of chronic users have problems. It is my opinion that this may even be low as a lot of people don't end up going to the doctor's office and reporting stomach issues that they self medicate with antiacids or OTC medications like prilosec. The guidelines are as follows: "A recent document by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society has come out with recommendations that anyone over 75 should not take NSAIDs. They recommended use of NSAIDs and COX-2s only "rarely" and "with extreme caution" in highly selected individuals, such as those for whom safer therapies have failed.
For most seniors, acetaminophen (Tylenol, Excedrin) should be considered as "initial and ongoing pharmacotherapy in the treatment of persistent pain, particularly musculoskeletal pain," they said. They noted that the presence of hepatic insufficiency and/or chronic alcohol use are relative contraindications.
Opioids may be safer than long-term NSAID therapy and should be considered for all patients with moderate-severe or quality-of-life-impacting pain, they added. Breakthrough pain with opioids should be anticipated and treated with short-acting, immediate-release opioids. "

In other words, its safer to take opiods than NSAIDs. Tylenol is a safer way to go if no liver or prior alcholic problems. A recent study even questioned the advisability of regular ingestion of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) to keep the blood thin for heart patients. The possible side effects may be worse than the symptoms aspirin is trying to control.

My recommendation: boswellic acids, fish oils. When combined with glucosamine for arthritic joints I have found this helps patients.

Internet Anonymity:

Take care on what you write and post on various internet forums. The anonymity of the internet allows people to write what they want without consequences and without burden of proof. You never know what kind of crackpot you'll run into out there.

May Blog Nutrition and Health Updates

2009-04-14T06:24:00.001-07:00

DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE: Conservative Treatment Methods

Non-surgical treatment methods are available for degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis changes and resulting problems in the neck and back and joints. These treatment protocols are lower cost, non-invasive and therefore of lower risk. Many complications exist out of osteoarthritic/degenerative changes: sciatica, radiating arm pain, numbness/tingling, spinal stenosis, spinal deformity, loss of mobility, chronic pain.

Treatment Goals for patients depends on the nature and severity of the symptoms. Patients with spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal openins) or radiating pain (radiculopathy, sciatica, radiculitis) may require a multi-treatment approach. The following are some of the methods used by doctors of chiropractic to help minimize the need for patient surgery.

Manipulation-low force or traditional manual techniques to retore normal spinal joint motion. Flexion-distraction and other traction oriented methods may also be used.
Nerve mobilization techniques to release nerves entrapped by adhesions, etc.
Physiotherapy modalities (physical medicine) such as interferential current, ultrasound, deep tissue therapy, postural restoration, and temperature therapy, etc. to treat pain and disability complaints.
Exercise/rehabilitation protocols to restore strength and function and stabilize core muscles.
Nutritional supplementation to reduce inflammation and support disc and cartilage structures.
Medical referral for epidurals, surgical consultations in non-responsive cases or cases of severe pain/deterioration.

Medical News:

H1N1 virus (swine flu) from Medscape. Persons infected with swine flu may appear similar to those with seasonal influenza, presenting with symptoms of acute respiratory illness. Symptoms include at least 2 of the following: Rhinorrhea or nasal congestion; Sore throat; Cough; and Fever. Most at risk include- those who live in areas in the United States with confirmed human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection. (To find the most up-to-date information on areas with confirmed swine influenza cases, go to http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/index.htm) . Also those who have traveled recently to Mexico or were in contact with persons who had febrile respiratory illness and were in areas of the United States with confirmed swine influenza cases or Mexico in the 7 days preceding illness onset. Treatment is anti-viral medications depending on age.
Aspirin and other platelet medications may increase micro-bleeds in the brain.
The first quarter of 2008 saw a large increase in serious injuries and deaths linked to prescription medication. Top drugs causing death/injury: Chantix-a stop smoking drug; warfarin-increased with tainted drugs from China; ibuprofen and acetaminophen-OTC pain killers; and other pain mediations/narcotics. Remember: all medications have the potential for serious side effects.

Guidelines on Female Exams from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology

<21> No routine exams unless problems.
21-29 routine pelvic examination and cytology. Sexually active less that age 25 should be screened for chlamydia and adolescents for gonorrhea.

30-64 annual pelvic and cytology reduced to every 2-3 years after 3 normal exams.

All adolescents and 19-64 sexually active females should be screened for HIV.

64+ annual pelvic. No cytology if 3 negative exams and no relevant history.

Nutrition News:

Nine foods that help keep weight off: green tea, soups, low-cal green salads, yogurt, water, lite die shakes, beans, whole grain/high fiber cereals, grapefruit.

Alternative Health/Chiropractic News:

Consumer Reports says in its May issue that 80% of adults in the U.S. report having been bothered by back pain at some point in their lives. The Consumer Reports Health Ratings Center surveyed 14,000 subscribers who reported experiencing back pain in the past year but who had never undergone back surgery. More than half said the pain severely limited their daily routines for at least a week, and many said it interfered with sex, sleep, and weight control.
It found that:
88% of respondents said back pain recurred through the year.
35% said they’d never consulted a professional to help with lower back pain.
Of those who’d sought help:
58% said chiropractic manipulation had helped a lot.
48% said massage had eased their pain.
46% said physical therapy had benefited them.
The respondents were also asked about their satisfaction with various treatments. Of those reporting they were highly satisfied:
59% had seen chiropractors
55% had seen physical therapists
53% had seen acupuncturists
44% had seen physician specialists
34% had seen primary care doctors

April's Blog on Health Care

2009-03-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

April Blog Update

by Dr. John H. Riggs

Alternative Chiropractic Solutions, 570-8792

HEALTH AND NUTRITION NEWS

MRI STUDY OF ARTHRITIS and SCOLIOSIS/CANCER: A 10 year MRI study of neck arthritis showed worsening of the arthritis over time. The major factor seems to be age. Implications: if you have arthritis it gets worse as you get older. Another study of scoliosis showed that curves greater than 25 degrees tended to get worse. Bowel cancer has risen by 120% for under 30 year olds due to obesity and lack of exercise.

CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT OF NERVE or RADIATING PAIN:

The nerves in the body can be sources of considerable pain and disability as a result of inflammation, irritation, compression, or dysfunction. In addition to its impulse transmission characteristics providing feedback to the brain and enabling movement, touch, feeling, etc., the nervous system also has mechanical characteristics. It must respond to tension, sliding and compression forces. Using these principles, a physical therapist in Australia has devised treatment methods for problems with the mechanical aspect of nerves: nerve mobilization or neurodynamics. Chiropractors in the US have been using nerve mobilization techniques as well, however, they have not established as comprehensive methods as Mr. Shaklock.

Although many neurological conditions require surgical intervention (severely herniated disc for example) many of the conditions can be treated manually thus avoiding surgery. Various nerve entrapment and inflammation syndromes for example can be effectively treated with nerve mobilization techniques. Examples are carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis (due to posterior tibial nerve pain), sciatica, radiating pain in the arms, to name a few.

My results with resolving such nerve complaints has been vastly improved using some of the principles of nerve mobilization to treat these serious conditions. Patience and perseverance is necessary for successful treatment, however, this has been one of the most successful methods of treating such things as sciatica and radiating arm pain I have ever used.

GRASTON TECHNIQUE: Also known as instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IAST), it is a form of deep tissue therapy designed to reduce and resolve scar tissue, adhesions and fibrosis in previously injured soft tissue. It also helps with inflamed and swollen soft tissue as well. Soft tissue pain is frequently associated with improper healing of soft tissue injuries. GT uses stainless steel instruments to gently break down adhesions in the soft tissue structures (muscles, tendons, ligaments) and coupled with exercises and stretches allows them to heal properly.

GT has been used successfully to treat such conditions as tennis elbow, shoulder problems, tendinitis, bursitis, and strains/sprains to name a few. Typically, treatment consists of 2 sessions a week for 3-6 weeks (allowing 2 days between sessions), followed by home stretches and exercises. The skin is prepped with a lubricant and stroking motions are used to break down adhesions and scar tissue in layers. Exercise is necessary to allow the tissue to reform without adhesions. I find the best results with tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis/bursitis, and shoulder problems.

Dr. Riggs was the first trained and certified practitioner (2003) in West Texas until recently (one other doctor). He has been using GT successfully for years.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION NEWS

RED MEAT AND HEALTH: March 26, 2009 — Eating red and processed meat is associated with modest increases in total mortality, cancer mortality, and cardiovascular disease mortality rates, according to the results of a large, prospective study reported in the March 23 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine. Red meat included all types of beef and pork such as bacon, beef, cold cuts, hamburgers, hot dogs, steak, and meats in pizza, lasagna, and stew. High meat consumption also increases obesity and overall health problems. The key to this study is not to preach a vegetarian diet but to recognize that moderation in one's consumption of read meats will reduce overall health risks. No one knows the long term results of the "bulking" up tactics of the meat industry (steroids, limiting movement, etc) resulting in fatter beef, etc. Red meats also are considered more pro-inflammatory. Omega 3's, on the other hand, found in cold water fish help reduce inflammation.

OVARIAN CANCER SYMPTOMS: NCCN Guidelines. In addition to a suspicious palpable mass in the abdomen, the clinical presentation also includes "symptoms such as bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency) without another obvious source of malignancy." "It's now thought that 90% of women with ovarian cancer will have these symptoms," "All women have these, but the keys are that there is a sudden onset and the frequency is about 12 times a month," he explained.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer include: family history of ovarian cancer, early onset breast cancers, and colorectal cancer, as well as age. Screen may include: CA-125 assay and transvaginal ultrasound. However, effective screening is a goal that has not been realized.

ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME AND WOMEN:

General symptoms of decreased blood supply to the heart: chest discomfort, pain, heaviness, fullness possibly radiating to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, jaw, epigastrium, or other location. Symptoms are increased with stress or exertion and may be relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. Shortness of breath, sweating, weakness, nausea or vomiting and lightheadedness may also occur. Chest pain is not always present and symptoms may include shortness of breath for no reason, pain in other locations, indigestion, nausea/vomiting, sweating, palpitations, generalized weakness, irregular heartbeats, fainting, fatigue, faintness or dizziness. The "absence" of chest pain or discomfort was found to be more common in women. Increasing age is an important predictor with women experiencing problems at an older age.

Blood Pressure Guidelines from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute:

Category: Systolic/Diastolic Result

Normal <120/<80>

Prehypertensive 120-139/80-89 Lose weight, increase exercise, change eating

Hypertension 140+/90+ Hypertension, talk to health care professional

Lowering blood pressure naturally. Some of the following can help lower your blood pressure.

increase activity

decrease sodium intake and what potassium (if too low increases sodium buildup)

minimize drinking alcohol

Eat healthy-decrease process and fatty foods and increase fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish , nuts, magnesium and potassium (DASH diet).

Stop smoking-it increases stress, depletes oxygen and increases cancer risk. There are no medical benefits to burning trash inches from your face.

Nutritional considerations: stevia leaf extract (supports healthy blood pressure), Hawthorne extract (supports heart and balances sodium and fluid levels), Olive leaf extract (supports healthy blood pressure), Dandelion leaf (helps reduce fluid retention), lycopene (supports arteries, circulation and heart health).

NEURONTIN: Medications have a place in health care when used for the right purposes. In a book by Melody Peterson "Our Daily Meds" her reporting on neurontin showed some of the issues of concern with medications in our society. The FDA had concerns over the effectiveness of neurontin and had concerns over its dangers for treating epilepsy. Apparently, research found it ineffective for 10 conditions it was approved for: fibromyalgia, ADD, diabetic neuropathy, chronic pain, mood disorders, migraines, and bi-polar disorder. The side effects of concern include: muscle pain, skin rash and itching, swollen glands, sore throat and fever, aggressiveness, concentration difficulty, depression, nightmares, chills, increases of certain seizures, mood/mental changes, nosebleeds and unusual bleeding or bruising and shortness of breath.

Neurontin sales have been about 2.7 billion. Yet, many of the sales involved off label uses which were apparently promoted by drug sales personnel. This has resulted in lawsuits. In 2004 Pfizer plead guilty to charges of healthcare fraud (DOJ investigation). Corporate executives apparently pushed off label usage seeking increased sales profits. 80-90% of the profits for the drug were off-label. The fine imposed was the second-largest for health care fraud in the U.S. A new lawsuit was filed in October 2008 alleging misdeads beyond the original charges including deception, suppression of scientific truth, manipulating trial designs and making the drug appear more effective than it was.

To me, this is along the lines of other corporate issues of ethics. A focus on profit no matter the cost or result.

March Blog Update on Health

2009-03-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

March-Chiropractic, Alternative Healthcare, Medical & Nutrition News:
by John H. Riggs, D.C., Alternative Chiropractic Solutions, 432-570-8792

References. Life Extension Magazine

Link to old blogspot in case you want to review any of the old entries: www.drriggs.blogspot.com.

Andropause: The male equivalent of menopause. Recently Harvard Scientists endorsed testosterone replacement in a book Testosterone for Life. Low testosterone creates andropause. Testosterone peaks about age 20 and then starts a steady decline. The symptoms include:

Loss of muscle mass and strength
Accumulation of belly fat
Low bone density
Anemia
Increased type II diabetes
Gradual erosion of libido and sometimes ED
May also be a risk for mental decline.
Cancer concerns: testosterone therapy has been thought to to increase or cause new prostate cancer risks. There appears to be little scientific report. What do we know? Low levels of testosterone may increase prostate cancer risk; high levels and treatment with testosterone do not increase the risk of prostate cancer; more physicians are coming around to recognize T therapy. A 2008 article in the Journal of National Cancer Institute found no relationship between prostate cancer and any of the hormones studied.

Reducing the Risk of Prostate Cancer:

A study in 2008 showed no reduction in cancer risk with vitamin E and selenium.
Supplementing with alpha tocopherol only reduces gamma tocopherol which is protective.
Vitamin D can reduce cancer risk by reversing genetic changes.
Omega 3 (fish oil) supplements reduces risk whereas omega 6 increases risk.
[ 5-Loxin may reduce the inflammatory substances in diets with too high omega 6.
Many plant foods are protective (broccoli, cauliflower, flaxseed, soy).
Low testosterone increases prostate risk according to a Harvard study.

Improving Vitality, Sexual Function, and Prostate Health in Aging Men.

Botanicals: maca, muira, puama, chrysin, nettle, ginger, and Norway spruce ligands.
They may work by improving free testosterone and blocking conversion to estrogen.

Preventing Macular Degeneration (new theory)-macular degeneration causes cholesterol-containing lesions in the retina and is the leading cause of vision loss after age 65.

Studies show low DHEA in those with MD.
A hormonal theory has been hypothesized suggesting low hormonal levels allow cholesterol to accumulate with the restoration of hormonal levels and nutrients supporting eye health may help stop or reverse MD.

Maintaining Muscle with age: Being able to stay active and healthy as we age requires healthy muscles. Muscle mass declines with age affecting our ability to stay active. How can we help offset muscle loss?

Exercise such as weight lifting helps maintain muscle mass. Staying active also helps.

Nutritional supplements help benefit exercise.o Whey protein helps muscle building
o Creatine helps with strength and lean tissue mass
o Glutamine helps preserve lean tissue and boots growth hormone
o Together the above with exercise help build strong muscles.

Excess Fructose in the Diet: especially HFSC (high fructose corn syrup.)

Why is it a problem? Increased use of the produce has accompanied increased obesity and metabolic syndrome (central obesity, diabetes). High triglycerides, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease (non-alcoholic), AGEs (advanced glycation end products. Fructose is linked with insulin resistant diabetes. It also elevates uric acid, gout and kidney stone risks.
Where do you find it? Sweetened carbonated soft drinks, packaged foods (cakes, cookies, jams, jellies, crackers), fruit juices, honey, table sugar.
Nutritional counter measures: benfotiamine, ALA, carnosine, pyridoxamine, acetyl-L-carnitine, vitamin C and fish oils.
Strategies for decreasing excess fructose. Avoid sweetened soft drinks and bottled teas. Stick to water, herbal teas and home brewed teas (green). Cut table sugar increase. Use stevia sweeteners. Read you product labels and avoid high-fructose corn syrup. Eat Mediterranean type diet with grains, fresh veggies, and fish.

Optimizing Bone Strength:

Risk factors: female, postmenopausal, older, white or Asian race, diabetic or metabolic syndrome, underweight, sedentary and smoker.
What you can do? Collagen calcium chelate and dried plumb improves bone strength. Weight bearing exercise-weights. Reduce controllable risk factors: diabetes/metabolic syndrome, weight, become more active and quit smoking.
Biphosphate Drugs: widely prescribed but with potentially serious side effects such as bone decay of the jaw, irregular heart rhythm (stroke risk).

Miscellaneous Nutrition News:

Black raspberries may reduce risk of cancer.
Boswellia (5-Loxin) improves osteoarthritis symptoms (anti-inflammatory). I like the combination of glucosamine, boswellia and fish oils. Some supplements such as osteo-biflex come with boswellia and glucosamine.
Green tea extract improves glucose control.
Curcumin (tumeric) may improve cold sores.
Losing sleep may encourage inflammation related diseases.
Vitamin D may help prevent multiple sclerosis. Deficiency raises the risk of hip fractures.
Flax seed extract reduces urinary symptoms in males
Goji berry enhances energy and well-being.
Quercetin may help protect agains the flu.
Lower levels of EPA may increase risk of mortality in older people.
Resveratrol found in red wine protects against atherosclerosis.
Fish oils keep arteries supple.
B3 nicotinamide helps offset memory loss.
Vitamin E reduces inflammation.
L-carnitine decreases LDL in diabetics.
Selenium may slash bladder cancer risk in women.

February/March Blog on Aging and Nutrition

2009-02-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

Aging

It's a bummer getting old. As we age, our body effects many changes, most undesirable. Here are the changes your body goes through as you age and some things you can do to help it.

SKIN: Your skin loses its strength and elasticity due to degeneration in the connective tissue (collagen and elastin). This sets the stage for wrinkles, folds and furrows. What can you do: limit exposure to the sun, use sunscreen. If you smoke, quit! Make sure you use lotions to keep your skin moist and lubricated. There are many cosmetics available to help reduce and repair the damage of aging and help reduce wrinkles. Stay hydrated with moisturizers and drinking plenty of water.
MIND: mental acuity declines with age. Physical activity and mental activity (reading, puzzles, games, crosswords, etc.) may help offset the decline and decrease the risk of Alzheimer's. Anesthesia for surgery increases the risk for early Alzheimer's. B-vitamins may also offset the risk of Alzheimer's as well.
VISION: Acuity deceases in your 40s. Macular degeneration and cataracts may develop as we age. Vitamin supplements such as high levels of anti-oxidants such as Vitamin E and C and beta carotene with zinc may help reduce macular degeneration risks. UV-shielded sunglasses also reduce cataract risk. New treatments are available for wet forms of macular degeneration.
BONES: bone mass peaks at age 35. Post menopausal women, andropausal men, inactive individuals, and those having used steroids extensively are all at risk of osteopenia or osteoporosis. Weight bearing exercises can help strengthen bones and increase density. Consider weight lifting, walking type exercises. Nutritionally, make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D. After age 50, 1200 mg of calcium/day and 400 IU of vitamin D (from 51-70, then increase to 600 after 70). We also lose .4 inches every 10 years after age 40, so by 70 you will likely have shrunk over an inch.
JOINTS: weight bearing joints and joints we've overworked often become osteoarthritic as we age-knees, spine, hands, etc. Exercises to strengthen the quadriceps will help the knees. Range of motion exercises will also help. Nutritionally, I like to put my patients on Osteo-biflex (glucosamine with boswellic acids which is also know as 5-Loxin) and fish oils. This combination helps with cartilage health and inflammation. I have seen this combination work as good as the prescription NSAIDS. More severe cases may require medical intervention in the form of steroid injections or lubricant injections (Hyalgan or Synivisc) and in the most serious cases, joint replacement. Heat may help some joints while others do better with ice depending on inflammation and swelling.
MUSCLES: muscle mass decreases significantly by age 60 and is replaced by fat. Weight lifting and aerobic exercise (walking, treadmill, elliptical, jogging) can help stave off this decline and build muscle. Muscle burns more fat. More muscle also keeps skin more taut.
DIGESTION: your stomach produces less acid as you age making B12 absorption more difficult. Digestive enzymes may help. Fiber to improve diminishing intestinal motility is also important-men need 38 grams and women need 25 grams. Supplements, high-fiber cereals, certain vegetables, beans, etc. all help with fiber. Taste buds decrease at age 40 in women and 50 in men. Smell also diminishes, especially after 70.
CARDIOVASCULAR: Your heart loses its ability to pump large amounts of blood quickly. B12 to offset anemia (and neurological problems) after 50 and folate to reduce homocysteine levels is necessary. Decrease sodium intake, eat at least 2 servings of fish (preferably cold water) a week (omega 3 FAs), decrease unhealthy trans fatty acids. 30 minutes of daily brisk exercise raising the heart rate. Increase fiber intake such as oatmeal. If you are taking statin drugs (Lipitor, etc.) supplement with CoQ10-100-200 mg/day, chewable.
SEXUAL ACTIVITY: hormonal, health and cardiovascular decline may lead to loss of interest or function. Medications may help. Testosterone supplementation may help males.
MISCELLANEOUS: hand grip strength decreases, nerve cells mass decreases and the number of nerve cells decrease which may cause spinal cord and brain atrophy. Some loss of nerve coating may occur slowing nerve transmission. Hearing starts declining about age 50.

NUTRITION:

NSAIDs-traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are enzyme inhibitors (Cox 1 and Cox 2). Short-term inhibition of these beneficial enzymes (acute stage) is not dangerous. However, long-term use results in gastric erosions or ulceration and can be dangerous. There are also side effects from long term inhibition of the COX 2 enzyme in the form of heart disease, heart attack and stroke. About 80% of serious stomach problems come without warning, with risk factors if you've had ulcers, consume alcohol regularly, take other medications with NSAIDs, use steroids or blood thinners, take more than the recommended dosage and are over 60 years of age.
Inflammation is connected to a lot of health problems: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, Alzheimer's and cancers.
NUTRITIONAL SOLUTIONS: Omega 3 fatty acids or fish oils (EPA, DHA). We need a 1:1 to 4:1 range ration for omega 6 FAs to Omega 3 FAs. Consumption of Omega 3 FAs may decrease chronic pain and inflammation without the risks of gastric erosions. Fish, especially cold water, seafood, seaweed and fish oils are good sources. EPA in the Omega 3 has blood thinning characteristics and needs to be taken under supervision if taking blood thinners of any type (warfarin, coumadin, aspirin). Another supplement that seems to work well is Zyflamend which is available at health food stores. Many herbs possess anti-inflammatory properties: tumeric (Alzheimer's, liver problems, cancers), willow bark (effective to twice as effective as Motrin), Boswellia (hits multiple enzyme systems, effective for arthritis and muscle pain).
Mediterranean Diet: the diet may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes (adult onset) by 83%.
Preventing Cognitive Decline: Berries and grapes. blueberry and grape seed extract, vinpocetine, phosphatidylserine, glycophosphocholine (GPC), uridine-5-monophosphate (UMP), ashwagandha, ginger, rosemary, hops, and the hormone prgnenolone may help protect brain tissue. Brain Healthy Diet: abundant fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts, lean protein while avoiding high fructose corn syrup, trans and hydrogenated fats, artificial sweeteners, gluten and dairy. Supplement with B vitamins, Omega 3 fatty acids, D3, calcium and magnesium.
Glucosamine: long term use follow up studies show reduce knee joint replacements.
Modified Citrus Pectin: demonstrates properties in blocking cancer cell aggregation, adhesion and metastasis and shows promise in chelating heavy metals.

Dr. Riggs' January Blog

2009-01-24T15:02:00.001-08:00

Marty and I hope you all had a safe holiday season and we wish you a prosperous new year.

Our country faces many challenges ahead for 2009. Never in my lifetime have I seen so many issues needing to be addressed. As a country, we have risen to such challenges in the past and I have confidence we will do so in the future. As a health care provider, I hope the challenge we face in such and important area will be met with creativity, industriousness and for the betterment of the people and not the special interests. For far too long, they have been allowed to drive the healthcare system benefiting mainly their bottom line. Change is apparently in the wind. What that will be no one knows at this time. We should all hope it is for the better.

As our population continues to gray, prevention rises to the top of the list. Our society must move from a disease treatment mentality to a disease prevention mentality-one where we focus on health, wellness, diet, exercise. Chiropractic health care has always lead the health system with a prevention mindset using nutrition, preventative visits, and periodic monitoring of health issues while encouraging good nutrition and diet and exercise. Although patients often drift away as they start to feel good, many of the progressive conditions we see do better with preventative or maintenance care. I encourage you to maintain your health so you are able to live long and healthy life free of many of the devastating aspects of aging. Most modern health problems are a result of our long term abusive treatment of our bodies. Heart disease, lung disease, arthritis, cancers-all have a connection to inflammation and poor health and dietary habits. Maintain good health by visiting our office more often.

Changing health habits can be a challenge. Here are some goals to consider.

If you smoke, consider quitting or cutting down. There are many options and ways to do so.
If you eat poorly, restrict calories or change your diet and exercise more.
If you are out of shape or weak, exercise your lungs, muscles and bones.
If you have arthritis, change your diet, exercise and use supplements that help.
If you have heart disease, change your diet, exercise (if you can), lose weight.
If you don’t feel well, make it a point to get checked out. Early detection no only cuts health costs but gives you a better chance of recovery.

Make this a year of personal change. Set goals. Work to achieve them. Social scientists, business managers, and governments all know it is difficult to achieve change. Change cannot happen if everyone fails to make an effort to do better. After taxes are done, I plan to start doing nutrition lectures again at the clinic on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays once a quarter.

Chiropractic, Alternative Healthcare & Nutrition News:
4.5 servings of cruciferous vegetables/month (broccoli for example) can significantly reduce lung cancer risk.
Fish Oils and Dementia: Patients with higher plasma levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid found in fish, had a significant 47% reduction in the risk of all-cause dementia and a 39% reduced risk of Alzheimer's, researchers reported.
Diabetes: A study found slashing carbohydrates decreases diabetic medication use and reverses Type 2 Diabetes.
FDA has new website on drugs: http://www.fda.gov/cder/

Medical News:
Liraglutide, a new drug in the same class as Byetta, cuts blood sugar and lowers weight in a year long study of people with early type 2 diabetes.
Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS): a recent analysis of studies shows that anti-depressants help improve the control of pain and quality of life for those with FMS. However, different types of anti-depressants have varying effects. However, effect sizes on pain with different classes of antidepressants varied, with small effect sizes associated with use of selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin- and noradrenalin-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), medium effect sizes with use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and large effect sizes associated with tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
More Fibromyalgia News: The FDA approved milnacipran (Savella) for FMS.
Offsetting Dementia: Exercising the brain can help slow down the normal mental decline of aging. A recent study by Bender outlines a very comprehensive approach for patients to keep their brains healthy and fit:
o Use your brain to learn new things and strive for some level of mastery
o Physical exercise
o Low fat diet- high in antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids
o Socialization
o Manage Stress
o Avoid excess – tobacco, alcohol and calories
o Utilize your talents for self and others because using talents enhances our brain circuitry
o Avoid head injuries
o Meditation
o Maximize a spiritual life

Yours in health,

Dr. John Riggs, Alternative Chiropractic Solutions 570-8792