Functional Medicine Testing
The Comprehensive Stool Analysis + Parasitology (CSAP) is an invaluable non-invasive diagnostic assessment that permits practitioners to objectively evaluate the status of beneficial and imbalanced commensal bacteria, pathogenic bacteria, yeast/fungus and parasites by culture, PCR, and other gold standard methods.. Precise identification of pathogenic species and susceptibility testing greatly facilitates selection of the most appropriate pharmaceutical or natural treatment agents.
Inflammation can significantly increase intestinal permeability and compromise assimilation of nutrients. The extent of inflammation, whether caused by pathogens or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can be assessed and monitored by examination of the levels of biomarkers such as calprotectin, lactoferrin, and lysozyme via this stool test. These markers can be used to differentiate between inflammation associated with potentially life-threatening inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which requires lifelong treatment, and less severe inflammation that can be associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which is frequently due to the presence of enteroinvasive pathogens. Calprotectin and lactoferrin are only markedly elevated prior to and during the active phases of IBD, but not with IBS. Monitoring these levels in patients with IBD can therefore facilitate timely treatment of IBD, and can be ordered separately. Since the vast majority of secretory IgA (sIgA) is normally present in the GI tract, where it prevents binding of pathogens and antigens to the mucosal membrane, it is essential to know the status of sIgA in the gut. sIgA is the only bona fide marker of humoral immune status in the GI tract.
Cornerstones of good health include proper digestion of food, assimilation of nutrients, exclusion of pathogens and timely elimination of waste. To obtain benefits from food that is consumed, nutrients must be appropriately digested and then efficiently absorbed into portal circulation. Microbes, larger-sized particles of fiber, and undigested foodstuffs should remain within the intestinal lumen. Poor digestion and malabsorption of vital nutrients can contribute to degenerative diseases, compromised immune status and nutritional deficiencies. Impairment of the highly specific nutrient uptake processes, or compromised GI barrier function, as in “leaky gut syndrome,” can result from a number of causes including:
- Low gastric acid production
- Chronic Maldigestion
- Food allergen impact on bowel absorptive surfaces
- Bacterial overgrowth or imbalances (dysbiosis)
- Pathogenic bacteria, yeast or parasites and related toxic irritants
- The use of NSAIDs and antibiotics
Impairment of intestinal functions can contribute to the development of food allergies, systemic illnesses, autoimmune disease, and toxic overload from substances that are usually kept in the confines of the bowel for elimination. After performing a stool test, efficient remediation of GI dysfunctions incorporates a comprehensive guided approach that should include consideration of elimination of pathogens and exposure to irritants, supplementation of hydrochloric acid, pancreatic enzymes and pre- and probiotics, and repair of the mucosal barrier.
The Organic Acids Test (OAT) offers a comprehensive metabolic snapshot of a patient’s overall health with over 70 markers. It provides an accurate evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria. Abnormally high levels of these microorganisms can cause or worsen behavior disorders, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue and immune function. Many people with chronic illnesses and neurological disorders often excrete several abnormal organic acids in their urine. The cause of these high levels could include oral antibiotic use, high sugar diets, immune deficiencies, acquired infections, as well as genetic factors.
Our Organic Acids Test also includes markers for vitamin and mineral levels, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter levels and oxalates, which are highly correlated with many chronic illnesses.
If abnormalities are detected using the OAT, treatments can include supplements, such as vitamins and antioxidants, or dietary modification. Upon treatment, patients and practitioners have reported significant improvement such as decreased fatigue, regular bowel function, increased energy and alertness, increased concentration, improved verbal skills, less hyperactivity, and decreased abdominal pain. The OAT is strongly recommended as the initial screening test.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient health science which is used to successfully treat both pain and dysfunction in the body. Authorities agree the science is over 5000 years old. It’s primary application is the utilization of very slender painless needles placed in the skin at various locations to relieve pain or affect a body function.
Early Asian physicians discovered there is an energy network traversing on or just below the surface of the skin which communicates from the exterior to the internal organs and structures at over 1,000 “acupoints” on the body. This energy works in harmony with the body’s circulatory, nervous, muscular, digestive, genitourinary and all other systems of the body. When this vital energy becomes blocked or weakened, an effect in a body system or anatomic location becomes evident. Stimulation of one or a combination of key acupoints on the body may restore harmony to the affected area.
Historians have stated, more people have benefited from acupuncture over the course of fifty centuries than the combined total of all other healing sciences, both ancient and modern.
How can Acupuncture help me?
Acupuncture has its primary effect on all physiologic functions of the body, therefore it has shown incredible success in a multitude of conditions. Presently, Dr. Bahr treats musculoskeletal related issues.
This includes: Tennis Elbow, Arthritis, Knee Pain, Hip Pain, Neck Pain, Back Pain, Shoulder Pain, Acute and Chronic Pain Relief, Migraine, Tension, Cluster and Sinus Headaches.
This is only a partial list of the numerous conditions Acupuncture has been credited with helping. Contact us for a full list of the conditions we treat.
Are Results Permanent?
For acute problems where there has been little or no organ system or tissue damage, results can often be permanent. For chronic conditions symptoms may recur from time to time. Generally a few additional treatments are sufficient to obtain relief. It is suggested that patients with severe or chronic conditions return for a booster treatment three to four times a year.
How does it work?
Modern science is now verifying what the Asians have reported over thousands of years: not only does the human body have an electro-magnetic energy system, it courses thorugh defined channels referred to as “meridians”. In normal health this energy field flows unimpeded and is in a balanced states. If a disruption occurs, the altered energy flow can produce conditions and symptoms affecting certain organs or the entire body.
If we were to compare the body’s 12 primary meridians flowing throughout the body to 12 radio stations in any major city, we will see each station airs at a particular frequency. If a station is broadcasting at 94.5 and the listeners radio is picking up 94.4 there will be static heard. The same is true if the radio picks up 94.6. One frequency would be too high the other too low. However the effect is the same…. “static”. There is nothing wrong with the radio, just something wrong with the fine tuning. This is precisely what may happen within the human body when it is not operating at the ideal frequency.
Acupuncture’s goal is to restore normalcy to the body’s energy field by stimulating a combination of specific acupoints through a number of different applications. The needle is just one of them. Medical research continues in this country and other to explain acupuncture in western scientific terms. Today, many theories have been postulated as to why Acupuncture is so effective in pain control and condition response.
How many treatments are usual?
The number of treatments vary with different conditions and individuals. Chronic problems generally require more treatment than acute ones. Some patients notice an immediate improvement after the first treatment, whereas other may not notice any effect until the seventh or eighth visit. It has been shown that a certain percentage of patients receive maximum benefit up to three months following a course of therapy. A small number of patients will experience what may feel like a worsening of symptoms as the body’s energies are returning to normal. This is expected, no need for alarm.
Researchers internationally agree the usual number of treatments is between eight and sixteen with twelve being the most common. The usual frequency is two to four times per week. Patients are urged not to enter an Acupuncture program with the thought of “taking a few” to see what will happen. This would be comparable to a patient saying they will try only 45 minutes of the physician-recommended two hour operation because they want to see how it goes.
Patients are always encouraged to be patient with the healing process.
Are results Psychological?
Many critics of acupuncture have suggested the science is hypnosis of “mind over matter”. This criticism is totally unfounded as acupuncture has startling effects on infants and toddlers as well as veterinary applications. The effect it has in surgery as an anesthetic further disclaims the skeptics. Even total disbelievers report favorable response to acupuncture.
For a Free Consultation:
If you have questions, or if you’d like to speak with Dr. Bahr to see if Acupuncture might be right for you, please give us a call to schedule your free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!
(605)399-2273
A Holistic Approach for the Relief of Symptoms Associated with Allergies and Sensitivities
Non-invasive
No needles
No herbal remedies
No supplements
No avoidance
Just results!
Click here for further Q & A or Advanced Allergy Therapeutics
SYMPTOMS TREATED
A sensitivity or inappropriate reaction may cause symptoms from any organ system in the body. Some systems are prone to reacting to certain families of allergies or substances, such as the respiratory system reacting to pollen. However, a substance may affect any organ system, which could cause a multitude of symptoms varying from case to case. For example, a reaction to wheat may cause hives in one person, digestive issues in another, fatigue, wheezing or Acid Reflux all in different patients. AAT addresses the specific organ systems affected by the allergen or offending substance.
Digestive System
Symptoms include reflux, heartburn, abdominal and intestinal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Primarily caused by reactions to food or other ingestants.
Respiratory System
Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughs, postnasal drip, skin conditions, rashes and itchy, watery eyes. Reactions may be associated with pollens, dust, food, chemicals and animals (including dog and cat dander and bird feathers), air-borne substances and contactants.
Dermatological
Symptoms may include red, itchy, or scaly skin rashes, blisters with oozing and crusting, dry leathery patches or hives. The main cause of dermatological reactions can be a reaction to food but can also be caused by plants, contactants and chemicals.
Headaches and Migraines
May be caused by reactions to food such as chocolate and caffeine, airborne irritants such as pollens and chemicals including household cleaners, perfumes and vehicle fumes.
Tiredness and Fatigue
Many reactions result in lethargy and feelings of fatigue. Tiredness can also occur at certain times of the day, such as in the afternoon after eating.
Multiple Systems
Symptoms may affect multiple systems in the body, resulting in headaches, irritability, hyperactivity, mood swings, fatigue, tachycardia, or inflammation.
General
Chemicals – household cleaners, perfumes, building materials, washing detergent, pesticides. Occupational sensitivities such as latex or building materials such as paints, glues, carpets, woods or varnishes. Animals, Heat, cold and humidity/dampness
Symptoms associated with an allergy or sensitivity can contribute to common conditions such as: asthma, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However not all cases involve allergies or sensitivities.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is primarily caused by sensitivities and affects approximately 15% of the population. Common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, and bloating and abdominal pain.
Skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis and hives are commonly associated with the symptoms of an allergy or sensitivity.
PLEASE BE ADVISED
AAT cannot guarantee any results. While AAT may be highly effective in the relief of many symptoms associated with allergies or sensitivities, some cases do not respond.
AAT does not treat cases of anaphylaxis or life threatening symptoms. Strict avoidance is always advised.
Common Allergens or Offending Agents
- Contactants
- Inhalants
- Ingestants
- Shell Fish
- Red and White Wine
- Beer
- Chemicals
- Latex
- Fruit
- Food Components
- Perfumes
- Berries
- Airborne Irritants
- Herbal Remedies
- Eggs
- Dust
- Dust Mites
- Nutritional Supplements
- Nightshades
- Seasonal Allergies
- Environmental Grains
- Animal Dander
- Woods
- Metals
- Dairy
- Fabrics
- Upholstery
- Plastics
- Stinging Insects
- Coffee
- Chocolate
- Detergents
- Softeners
- Sunlight
- Barometric Pressure
AAT does not diagnose allergies, sensitivities or intolerances.
AAT does not test for allergies or sensitivities. The AAT system simply assesses what may be causing a stress to the body.
AAT does not cure allergies, nor does the therapy treat the immune system. AAT is a highly effective treatment that provides long-term relief from symptoms associated with allergies or sensitivities.
AAT does not treat cases of anaphylaxis or life threatening symptoms. Strict avoidance is always advised in these cases.
Advanced Allergy Therapeutics
Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) offers a unique and highly effective approach in treating the many symptoms associated with allergies and sensitivities. AAT is a precision-based therapy that treats the organ systems involved in an overreaction. AAT does not treat the immune system; instead, the therapy focuses on inappropriate reactions to a harmless substance in relation to the organs systems to produce rapid, long-term results for the relief of associated symptoms. AAT merges 21st century science with (3,000-year-old traditional acupuncture) (modern chiropractic) principles in offering an effective alternative in the treatment of symptoms associated with allergies and sensitivities.
Understanding Allergies and Sensitivities
Allergies and sensitivities are caused by an inappropriate reaction to harmless substances.
The word “allergy comes from the Greek allos, meaning “other” It was first used in 1906 to refer to an “altered reaction” in the body’s immune system.
A “true allergy” is a reaction triggered by the immune system, however there are a vast number of symptoms or conditions caused by sensitivities that may or may not involve the immune system. With reactions involving food, a large percentage of the population believe they have allergies, yet fewer than 2% actually have true allergies. In fact, many suffer from undiagnosed food sensitivities or intolerances. The majority of patients who seek the AAT treatment do not have true allergies; their symptoms are likely to be caused by sensitivities with no immune involvement. Since there are few options for the treatment of sensitivities, other than avoidance, AAT provides a highly effective alternative. Symptoms caused by true allergies, however, also respond well to the treatment as the organs systems involved in the reaction are also addressed.
The use of the word “allergy” has become a generic term used by the public to describe allergies, sensitivites and intolerances.
What is AAT?
Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) is a clinically proven treatment that is highly effective in relieving the many symptoms associated with allergies and sensitivities. It is a therapeutic approach that was developed from over 16 years of clinical research. The AAT treatment does not rely on the use of medications, herbal remedies or supplements. The treatment is safe, painless and available to all ages including infants.
Advanced Allergy Therapeutics works directly with the relationship between the major organ systems and inappropriate reactions to harmless substances. While the immune system is responsible for initiating an immune reaction in the case of true allergies, it is the health and state of the organ systems that often determines the type of symptoms that may arise. With both sensitivities and allergies, symptoms typically stem from the organ system affected. For example, one patient may have a reaction to soybean by getting rashes while another patient may react with sinus congestion, heartburn or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The symptoms in each of these cases represent a different organ system involved. By treating the organ system(s) involved in a reaction, the body is able to respond more appropriately.
During treatment, gentle pressure is used on points that correspond with the organ systems involved in a reaction. The degree of stress on the organ systems caused by an allergen or offending agent, is proportional to the degree of the negative reaction. While the stimulation is applied, a subtle representation of the offending substance is introduced to the surface of the skin. The stimulation reduces the stress on the effected organ system, allowing for a more appropriate response.
All holistic fields of medicine are aligned in the approach to treat the whole body. They share the understanding that health conditions may develop as a result of interference in proper functioning caused by various forms of stress or other factors. Reducing the stress or interference allows for optimal health. When the specific organ system is supported and stress is reduced, the whole body is able to respond more appropriately.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system and a vital part of the immune system, comprising a network of lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph (from Latin lympha meaning water) directionally towards the heart. It is the information highway of our immune system and the pathway for toxic removal.
How do I know if I have a lymphatic problem?
Proper lymphatic flow is a result of physical activity and an overall healthy circulatory system. But stagnation can occur in the system causing congestion and thicker lymphatic fluid. Also, surgery, injuries, radiation therapy, and removal of lymph structures create scar tissue that blocks the flow. This block in flow may result in symptoms such as sinus trouble, headaches, swelling (edema), fatigue and chronic pain syndromes, skin and other infections, asthma, allergies, poor digestion, ongoing pain after surgery and injuries, and premature aging.
What is the Lymphstar Pro?
This is a device that emits a low energy vibration that is safe and relaxing. This electronic device uses therapy heads containing noble gases in glass tubes. The gases are excited (ionized) by a high voltage field at low current (amperage). The therapy heads emit various fields of energy when touched onto the skin.
How many sessions are needed?
Typically 6 sessions are needed to gain positive benefits. The first session is 20-30 minutes in duration, with follow up sessions lasting up to 1 hour.
What health challenges can be helped using Lymphatic Therapy?
- Inflammation due to injury
- Lymphedema
- Chronic pain
- Sinus and allergy symptoms
- Headaches
- Arthritis
- Digestive and bowel problems
- Fibromyalgia
- General toxicity
- Fatigue
WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?
Neurofeedback is also known as EEG Biofeedback. Neurofeedback is actually a learning modality designed to retrain dysregulated brainwave patterns. By doing this, the brain becomes more stable and is able to operate optimally and efficiently. It is completely noninvasive and is considered by the Food and Drug Administration to be safe. In fact the Food and Drug Administration recognizes that neurofeedback has NEVER produced a serious side effect since it was first discovered over 40 years ago. Neurofeedback cannot diagnose or treat any particular condition per se but peer reviewed, published research has demonstrated its efficacy in managing many neurological conditions such as ADHD, Migraine and Tension Headache, Insomnia, Chronic Pain, Post Stroke Syndrome, Anxiety and Panic Attacks as well as many others
THE NEUROFEEDBACK EVALUATION PROCEDURE
Neurofeedback is guided exercise for the brain. All neurofeedback begins with a Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) evaluation. The QEEG is an assessment tool designed to objectively and scientifically evaluate a person’s brainwave patterns. The procedure consists of placing a snug cap on the head.
Embedded within the cap are 12 small sensors that are designed to measure and record electrical activity (or brainwaves) coming from the brain. It is important to note that these sensors do not put any electrical current into the brain – they simply record signals coming from the brain.
THE QEEG REPORT
The brainwave data recorded with the QEEG is statistically compared to a sophisticated and large normative database and a report is generated. This assessment procedure allows the doctor to determine, in a scientifically objective manner whether a client’s brainwave patterns are different from normal. The QEEG assessment provides the doctor with the neurofeedback training protocols that will be used during the training sessions. These protocols are designed to retrain the brainwave patterns toward normal. As the brainwave patterns normalize, the brain is able to operate more optimally and efficiently.
NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING SESSIONS
Individuals are hooked up to a computer using wires and sensors and the computer records their brainwave activity. These sensors are noninvasive, as no electrical current is put into the brain. The sensors simply record the brainwaves coming from the brain. Information about these brainwaves is displayed on the doctor’s monitor.
The software automatically detects when the brainwaves are properly ordered and it feeds that information back to the patient. This feedback appears in the form of a game, movie, or sound which signals the patient that the brainwaves are becoming more ordered. For example, in the image above, the patient is watching a puzzle of a picture that is being filled in piece by piece. As long as the patient’s brain waves are moving in an orderly direction, the puzzle pieces are filled in and the patient hears a tone. If the brainwave patterns move away from an orderly pattern, then the puzzle does not get filled in and no tone is produced. The patient is actually controlling the completion of the puzzle with their brain and by doing so; the brain is learning how to regulate itself.
In another design, the patient performs the training while watching a movie. In this case the patient may watch a DVD movie that is being controlled by their ability to regulate their brainwaves. The movie will get brighter as the brain waves normalize and become darker when they become dysregulated. The brain’s natural desire to watch the movie clearly will drive those neurological circuits that normalize the brainwaves and allow the picture to be visualized. The more those circuits are driven and used – the more neuroplastic changes take hold. The patient learns how to use those new circuits during the demands of everyday life.
PUBLISHED RESEARCH
For the past 40 years neurofeedback has been studied in research labs at prominent Universities throughout the world. In fact, Dr. Frank H. Duffy, a Professor and Pediatric Neurologist at Harvard Medical School, stated that “Neurofeedback should play a major therapeutic role in many difficult areas. In my opinion, if any medication had demonstrated such a wide spectrum of efficacy it would be universally accepted and widely used”
You can also find more information at http://braincoretherapy.com/research http://braincoretherapy.com/testimonials/ http://braincoretherapy.com/how-it-works/ www.braincoretherapy.com
HOW THE L.I.F.E. BIOFEEDBACK SYSTEM WORKS
L.I.F.E. System – Technical Information
The measurement made by the L.I.F.E. System is based upon the relationship between “action & reaction” by applying a challenge to the patient (“action”) and measuring the reaction of the human body as it answers the challenge (“reaction”).
The basic principle of the mode of action of the L.I.F.E. System device is the following: The L.I.F.E. System device sends a square wave signal with amplitude of 5 Volt, and a duty cycle of 50% to the harness. The frequency to be applied, for determination of our test, is about 47.3 kHz. The measurement current through the body is limited to a maximum of 10mA, but usually no more than 5mA or less.
Figure 1 shows the applied signal, without the harness being in contact with the human body.
Figure 1: Square wave signal with no harness in contact with the human body
When the harness is in contact with the human body, a significant change (deformation) of the signal can be detected. Figure 2 shows the respective signals (but on a different time scale to underline the changes)
Figure 2: Superimposition of the signal without harness being applied to the human body (red signal) and with electrodes being applied to the human body (blue signal).
As can be seen from the superimposition of the signals, there is a significant difference in the shapes of the signals. The detection of the signal is realized by the L.I.F.E. System device in a binary way – the part of the signal being placed in the upper half of the square wave signal is detected, the lower part of the square wave signal is ignored. Therefore, the different shapes of the signals (electrodes applied to a patient and no electrodes applied to the patient) result in time differences ΔT1 and ΔT2 before half of the amplitude is passed. These time differences resulting from the different shapes of the signals are detected by the L.I.F.E. System device.
When applying the same methodology to a patient suffering from a particular imbalance, again a signal will be detected. But as the situation in the body of the patient is different due to the imbalance, the shape of the signal to be detected is different, and it can be seen that this signal is less steep in the case of imbalance. This difference in signal shapes results in other time differences Δt1 and Δt2, which are characteristic for a particular imbalance.
Figure 3 shows the signal obtained in the case of such an imbalance
Figure 3: Superimpositining of the Signal obtained from a patient suffering from a particular imbalance (blue signal) and the signal obtained when harness is not applied to the human body (red signal)
However, it must be pointed out that the results obtained by the L.I.F.E. System device can only give hints to physical states in which the presence of a particular imbalance is likely. The final diagnosis must be confirmed by other methodologies such as X-ray or MRI in any case.
The basic principle of the L.I.F.E. System device is to measure these time differences of the respective signals and to achieve a statistical evaluation based on a mathematical algorithm. The results obtained are compared with data which are archived in a data base.
Figure 4: Basic work flow for the evaluation of data obtained
The mathematical calculation algorithm takes input information on the one hand, which is stored in the Element database, and on the other hand the digitized measurement data, belonging to the element. After quantifying the values, artefacts (like disturbances caused by EMC, movements, etc.) are removed. The cleaned data is sampled and after that, the correlation is calculated, leading to the desired reactivity value, providing the results of reactivity testing, relative to the given element.
It can be claimed that when the situation inside the human body is disturbed due to a particular imbalance, the physical situation will become different. Any abnormal condition can be considered as a kind of imbalance, it can be easily seen that the temperature inside the area of interest is different. As a consequence, the shape of the signal that is detected will differ from the one measured in a non-conditional situation. The differences can be measured easily by detecting the time difference, as described above, and those time differences are characteristic for the respective situations. Evidence that they can be measured and detected was given by the outcome of the clinical investigation.
- Literature describing the effectiveness of the L.I.F.E. System device
Literature in peer reviewed journals describing the mode of action and effectiveness of the L.I.F.E. System was not available prior to the development of the L.I.F.E. System. Consequently, a clinical investigation giving evidence to the effectiveness was undertaken in 2006. The complete documentation and the results have already been submitted to and approved for European Class 2-A Certification.
What is a Tissue Mineral Analysis?
- A test that measures the mineral content of your hair.
- Mineral content of the hair reflects the mineral content of the body’s tissues.
- If a mineral deficiency or excess exists in the hair, it usually indicates a mineral deficiency or excess within the body, or bio-unavailability.
- Hair analysis allows a correct program of diet and supplementation to be designed for each individual’s specific needs.
Why Test for Minerals?
- Minerals are involved in almost all enzyme reactions within the body.
- Abnormal changes in body chemistry and nutritional deficiencies may result in early, subtle change in the body.
- For example, white spots in the fingernails may indicate a possible ZINC DEFICIENCY.
- Longitudinal ridging in the nails may indicate a possible IRON DEFICIENCY.
- Brittle hair and nails may indicates a possible CALCIUM and COPPER imbalance.
- Deep grooves across the nails indicates a possible CALCIUM DEFICIENCY.
- Stretch marks – possible ZINC DEFICIENCY.
- Lack of growth – possible ZINC DEFICIENCY.
- Mood swings – possible TOXIC METAL accumulation such as LEAD, MERCURY, or CADMIUM.
Conditions which may Result or be Aggravated by Mineral Imbalance Are:
- Depression
- Hair Loss
- Musculo-Skeletal Disorders
- Headaches
- Anemia
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Hypoglycemia
- Thyroid Disturbances
- Skin Rashes
- Hyperactivity
- Prostate
- Emotional Problems
- Hypertension
- Digestive
- Allergies
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
Common Causes of Mineral Imbalance
- Improper diet, such as excessive intake of refined carbohydrates and sugars, strict vegetarian diets or other exclusive diets.
- Taking vitamins and minerals which are not compatible with your current body chemistry.
- Medications
- Birth Control Pills
- Stress
- Accumulation of toxic metals from the environment, job or hobby.
- Inheritance of mineral patterns from parents.
Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) is a light touch healing practice that balances the cranial sacral system in the body. This system includes the bones, nerves, fluids and connective tissue of the skull, the spine, the sacrum and ultimately all tissues of the body.
A cranial sacral therapist works with the cranial sacral system by gently working the spine, the skull and its cranial sutures, diaphragms of the body, and the fascia of the body, (connective tissue). CST eases the restrictions in nerve passages. Flow of cerebral spinal fluid through the spinal cord can thus be optimized, allowing for misaligned bones to be restored to their proper position more easily.
Myofascial Unwinding
Myo means muscle, and fascial means connective tissue. Connective tissue is a 3 dimensional network of densely woven, tough tissue that surrounds every organ, muscle, nerve, bone and vessel in the entire body..
This fascial network is one continuous layer from your head to your toes. In this way you can begin to see that each part of the entire body is connected to every other part by the fascia.
In a normal healthy state the body maintains equalibrium through a delicate balance of tension and elasticity. With the proper amount of tension it helps support the efficient alignment of your bones while being elastic enough to permit full, unrestricted movement. However in response to physical trauma, stress, chemicals, or habitual poor posture, it can begin losing its pliability. Once these restrictions start exerting abnormal pressure on bones, joints, nerves, blood vessels and even organs, they unbalance the system, creating pain both locally and in seemingly unrelated areas of your body.
In order to correct myofascial restrictions, sustained, low intensity pressure is applied to a given area and the fascia slowly lengthens and eventually remains that way. Myofascial unwinding is a spontaneous movement of the body by the way of the mind. When the practitioner initiates an unwinding process by either compressing or distracting a certain area, the body will be inclined to move as it is needed to restore balance to the myofascial system.
While myofascial unwinding is gentle, it has profound effects upon the body. While each patient’s response will be highly individualized, certain common responses are seen repeatedly. Occasionally you may leave a treatment feeling like nothing happened. Later, even a day later, the effects of the treatment may occur. There may be soreness after treatment for several hours or perhaps a day. The soreness is the response of the tissues secreting lactic acid and other trapped metabolic wastes into the intercellular spaces where it can be excreted by the body’s normal pathways. The best way to aid in this process is by drinking extra water and taking an Epson salt bath which aids in flushing toxins out of the body.
Generally acute cases are typically resolved with a few treatments. The more chronic the problem , the longer it usually takes to bring lasting results.
How CST saved my son
“At 18 months old, my mild-mannered baby started to throw horrid tantrums. He screamed. He cried. He slammed his head into everything from walls to floors. It was heart-breaking as I geared up for what everyone called the “Terrible Twos.” But as time went on it got worse. My son started grinding his teeth, whether he was awake or asleep. Eventually he even preferred sleeping on the floor instead of in his own bed.
I researched everything I could find, from parenting styles to plagiocephaly to autism. I felt in my spirit there was more going on here than just a 2-year-old thing. But what?
Then the summer that my son turned 3, a nurse I was talking to on the phone overheard him in the background. When she asked about him I explained that everyone told me he would grow out of it. But I also told her I had my suspicions that he had some kind of head pain. She concurred and suggested I try Tylenol to see if he’d calm down. It worked!
We needed to address the head pain he was experiencing. Fortunately, I’d already researched Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST). My nephew had been treated for torticollis using CST with remarkable success.
The results were dramatic:
~ One appointment and my son stopped sleeping on the floor. He also seemed to have an attitude change.
~ Two appointments and he stopped grinding his teeth.
~ Three appointments and I’ve yet to see him slam his head like he used to.
~ Four appointments and everything is moving as it should, from his skull to his spine.
We continued with 13 appointments before moving to a new state. Within 6 weeks, he was asking to go back to the “massage doctor”.
Now he is 7 years old, he’s been diagnosed with PDD-NOS (autism) and wears glasses. We see Dr. Bahr on a regular basis and CST relieves headaches caused by his glasses and the plagiocephaly.
I’m in awe over the changes that I’ve seen in my son after CST and recommend Dr. Bahr to any concerned mom.”
Sincerely,
Charalet Dunnigan 12/09
Chiropractic care is a conservative, non-invasive treatment used to relieve pain and treat underlying conditions of the neuromuscular system. Although it is highly effective on its own, the therapy works synergistically with massage therapy to deliver faster, more effective results. Massage prior to a chiropractic treatment helps loosen stiff muscles and make them more susceptible to manual adjustments. Many chiropractors not only recommend massage to patients – they offer it right in their offices.
Did you know…that massage therapy has been used for thousands of years to relieve muscle stiffness and back pain related to stress and injury? Today, it is used around the world for those same reasons. In fact, there are more than 100 types of massage used in countries all around the world. Each offers its own benefits, but nearly all serve the same purposes – to relieve stress, improve range of motion, release built-up muscle toxins, and provide relief of pain and muscle stiffness. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a massage?
Not everyone is a candidate for massage, so see your primary care physician before getting treatment. According to the National Institute for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, massage administered by a trained and licensed professional carries very low risk of complications.
What should I expect during my massage?
Your massage experience will depend primarily on the type of massage you get. If you see a professional masseuse, you can elect traditional massage for superficial muscle relaxation or deep tissue massage to target the muscles deep beneath the skin. Massages are usually available for durations of up to 90 minutes, although you can reap the benefits of massage in just 30 minutes or less.
Will I need to follow any special instructions following my massage?
Yes. Massage therapy helps loosen muscles by relieving toxins that are stored in them. These toxins need to be flushed out of your system in the hours following your massage, so it is recommended that you drink plenty of water once you complete your treatment.
Chiropractic care for children offers your family a solid foundation for wellness.
Throughout pregnancy, birth, and childhood, the chiropractic lifestyle offers choices and benefits for your greater health and well-being.
New Study Shows: Chiropractic Care for Children is Safe and Effective
Would you like to learn more?
www.discoverkidshealth.com
International Chiropractic
Pediatric Association
Pregnancy and Birth as a Natural Process
With Chiropractic Care supporting this Process
Chiropractors work with the body’s ability to adapt and function the way it is designed to. Chiropractic care and pregnancy is vital to the normal physiological function of both mother and baby in pregnancy and birth.
In The Mother
- Restoring balance to the mother’s pelvis during pregnancy can lead to easier deliveries for you and baby, as ell as possibly reducing labor time.
- Can remove tension on the ligaments that support the uterus thus reducing torsion (intrauterine constraint) to the womans uterus.
- Reduces interference to the mother’s vital nervous system which controls and coordinates all of her systems and functions.
- Chiropractic care during pregnancy can relieve and even prevent discomforts experienced in pregnancy.
To The infant
- Can offer the baby room to move into the best possible position for birth.
- Studies in infants show symptoms of colic, ear infections, and asthma can be reduced with chiropractic care.
- Chiropractors with additional training in pediatrics use very specific, gentle techniques to care for children. On the very young, the chiropractic adjustment is as light as a finger touch.