Your Life-Your Choice ISSN 1488-0253 April, 2001 Issue 72 Letter From the Editor With greater demands being placed on people in the work place to work longer hours and produce faster results, there is also an increasing number of reports of wrist problems relating to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Although long, daily hours sitting at a computer is a common culprit, ANY repetitive hand movements, like typing or hammering, will result in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome over time. This would include certain Production Line Workers, Roofers, musicians and typists to name only a few. In order to deal with this incredibly painful health issue, it is essential to first be sure that you have a correct diagnosis by a qualified and knowledgeable physician, preferably an orthopedic surgeon or a neurologist. There are many conditions that have similar symptoms to those of carpal tunnel syndrome but require different treatments; for example: A pinched nerve in your neck or shoulder can cause a similar numbness and tingling in the hand. So can diabetic neuropathy. Arthritis at the base of the thumb or in the hand can also cause similar symptoms. In the wrist there is a circular-like band made up of bones and ligaments which is called the transverse carpal ligament. The center hole of this ligament is called the Carpal Tunnel. Through this tunnel runs tendons (that allow us to move our fingers and grasp objects), and the median nerve (which provides us with sensation in our fingers and thumb). The most common cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is an inflammation of the tendons. This causes the tendons to swell which will eventually put so much pressure on the median nerve that it will no longer function properly. Aside from overuse, there are other instigators of swelling in this area. Fluid retention is one example, and fractures around the wrist and hand is another. Not only can a fracture itself cause swelling, but even a slight change in the shape of the bones as they heal can narrow the passage for the median nerve. Although surgery is a common treatment in severe cases of this syndrome, there are a number of holistic, non-invasive treatments available as well. I encourage you to investigate all of your options and consult with your local health care provider to determine the best course of action for YOU. Biofeedback is a specialized type of training which allows you to gain control over physiological reactions that are ordinarily unconscious and automatic. In other words, you consciously train your body to perform tasks differently (more constructively) than when you did them without thinking about it. The training methods are relatively simple, although they require complex and precise instrumentation. Once the specific mode of treatment has been determined, you are connected to a device similar to a computer to monitor the response of your movements. This non-invasive process involves sensitive biofeedback instruments that measure and feedback what is happening inside your body. This feedback about your physiology is immediate, ongoing, and exact.Over time you will be able to control your specific body function without the use of the computer. Often people use too much force in striking computer keys, grasping pens, pressing on guitar strings, etc. Using biofeedback for specific muscle groups can give valuable information about the level of muscle activity in performing these specific tasks. Acupuncture has shown significant success in treating health issues such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. In fact many other modalities also use the acupuncture points to accomplish their goals in treatment. The November 1997 National Institute of Health (NIH) Panel Consensus Report Supports Acupuncture for a number of health issues, among them Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Reconstructive Therapy has been practiced in the United States for over 60 years and can provide a more cost-effective solution than surgery. Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of many afflictions that responds well to reconstructive therapy. Anti-inflammatory herbs can be effective in reducing the inflammation of the tendons. This treatment can be used independently (depending on the severity of the condition) or in conjunction with other treatments. A new type of massage called Specific Lymphatic Massage® can be performed by Massage Therapists, Kinesiologists, Physical Therapists, Nurses, Occupational Therapists, any health care provider who utilizes therapeutic body work as part of a Holistic Health care regimen. Specific Lymphatic Massage® requires specialized training and carries with it independent certification. There are numerous other avenues to investigate as well. Magnetic Therapy, Hydrotherapy, Naturopathy, Orthomolecular Medicine, Acupressure, and Homeopathy all well recognized modalities and have options to offer you in your search of pain relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. You may find a combination of treatments will work best for you. Sources: A Patient's Guide to Cumulative Trauma Disorders http://www.sechrest.com/mmg/reflib/ctd/cts/cts.html Dr Malka's Orthopaedic Pages; Dr Malka http://www.orthohelp.com/ Dr. Celeste DeBease; Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified in Biofeedback Therapy; http://www.biofeedback.net/cdb/Trmts.html Biofeedback Therapies; http://www.biofeedbacktherapies.com Lifestreams; http://www.lifestreams.net/Acupuncture.htm Alternative Medicine; the Definitive Guide Carpal Tunnel Massage; http://www.carpaltunnelmassage.com/ Brigitte Synesael Editor of Your Life-Your Choice Make it your business to be informed! No one cares more about you than YOU. http://www.Life-Choices.com =========================================== ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE: 1. Cancer Preventing Super Foods 2. Coenzyme Q10: Anti-wrinkle protection *** Please rate this Ezine at the Cumuli Ezine Finder. http://www.cumuli.com/ezines/info/default.ldml?pub_code=alterh =========================================== Section 1 Cancer Preventing Super Foods By Dr. John Maher drjmaher@cts.com http://www.RxforWellness.com Although currently heart disease kills most of us, it seems in general we dread cancer more. It is even sometimes called , "The Big C", and code worded by doctors as "CA", apparently because we don't even like to say or hear the word! Interestingly, after of billions of dollars in research it appears that the quotes below, credited to two famous men, were truly prophetic. "Let your food be your medicine"- Hippocrates "The doctor of the future….will interest his patients in diet, care of the human frame, and in the prevention of disease." Thomas Edison In 1992, a scientist named Caragay developed a hierarchy of potential cancer preventative foods. The National Cancer institute is currently investigating these foods, specifically those at the top of the pyramid*, to further clarify the biological effect of these foods on health and cancer prevention. Garlic Cabbages Licorice and Ginger Soy, Carrots, Celery, Parsnips Onions, Green Tea, Tumeric, Citrus Whole Wheat, Flax Seed, and Brown Rice Tomato, Egg Plant and Peppers (the Solanacea). Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Brussel Spouts (the Cruciferae). Oats, Mints, Oregano, Cucumber, Rosemary, Sage, and Potato. Thyme, Chives, Cantaloupe, Basil, Tarragon, Barley and the Berries *Foods are ranked in order of importance from top to bottom These plants are rich in phytochemicals. Such plant chemicals are "signaling molecules" plants use to communicate within themselves. As an example, in grape seeds phytochemical antioxidant compounds called polyphenols protect its DNA in dry or light intensive environments. In berries, the carotenoids provide color to signal pollinators such as birds or insects. There may be over 10,000 different phytochemicals that have biological activity in humans. There are over a dozen general classes, such as carotenoids, coumarins, flavonoids, indoles, lignans and phenolic acids. So although taking an iron free mega-multivitamin/mineral and extra antioxidants is part of good anti-aging and longevity strategy, there is NO substitute for including a generous amount of a variety of the above "Super Foods" in our diets. ----- Read about Dr. Maher on our Meet the Team page; http://www.Life-Choices.com/team.html ******************************************* Our sponsors make this newsletter FREE to subscribers. Please take a moment to visit them. ******************************************* Stop snoring with Snoreless An all-natural product designed to make you stop snoring!. Top Reasons to Try Snoreless. Ø Gentle throat mist provides a full night of quiet sleep. Ø Completely safe to use each and every night! Ø It's all natural with no side effects. Ø Eliminates 97% of the noise associated with snoring. Ø Inexpensive. (pennies per night) Ø Peppermint flavor also helps alleviate 'morning breath'. Ø One bottle is several months supply. Ø Great results for 9 out of 10 snorers. Ø 100% Money Back Guarantee! Stop snoring with Snoreless! Click NOW www.herbsofhealth.com/snoringindex.html ********************************************* Tried all the diets on the market that just didn't work? Find comfort in food and remote control? Feel guilty having donut? Then you must visit this site… 1StepDiet has combined weight loss programs with mind programming techniques to give you the most powerful weight loss system that WORKS. Guaranteed! http://www.1stepdiet.com/ ********************************************* Section 2 Coenzyme Q10: Anti-wrinkle protection Coenzyme Q10 was discovered in 1957. This vitamin-like substance, present in every cell of the body, is vitally important for cell functioning: it plays major role in energy production and is a powerful antioxidant. Doctors and researchers around the globe have been investigating CoQ10, and now it is used for a variety of ailments and as a part of preventive care: * Q10 is needed for anything that requires energy: heart and liver functioning, sperm production, muscles activity * it boosts immune system * shown to be effective in treatment of gum diseases * lowers blood pressure * it is used for cancer treatment and was noticed to reduce tumors. Human body has the ability to make its own CoQ10, but after the age of 20 the production levels decline, and the demand grows. Foods highest in coenzyme Q10 include beef, spinach, sardines, albacore tuna, and peanuts, but unfortunately, high temperature that we use to cook meals will affect the coenzyme. That is why older people and those who want to use Q10 for therapeutic effect will benefit from taking it as a supplement. How effective is Q10 in skin care? Wrinkles appear when skin looses its elasticity, and this is due to decreased collagen production and collagen crosslinking. Everyday life, cell metabolism, exposure to sun and other environmental factors, toxins, cigarette smoke - all result in production of free radicals. Those overactive pesky molecules or atoms have odd electrons on their orbits and try to balance out themselves. They either give away the odd electron or find a pair for it, thus making another molecule unstable, turning it into another free radical. While this process is natural and unavoidable as a part of metabolism, too many free radicals cause a dangerous chain reaction that destroys cellular compounds and can damage DNA, proteins and lipids (fats). When it comes to skin aging, free radicals interfere with collagen production and cause premature aging. Coenzyme Q10 has exceptional antioxidant properties. Studies show that it can effectively counteract free radical damage and provide significant protection against UVA-induced depletion of cell membrane. In other words, it will prevent damage to collagen and elastin production process and help you avoid wrinkles. Q10 is so powerful an antioxidant, it is able to reduce cancer tumors and minimize stroke consequences that are due to suddenly increased levels of free radicals. So when applied topically, it can provide extra protection for your skin and produce dramatic anti-wrinkle effect. Note: Information in this article is not to be taken as a medical advise. Always consult your doctor if you need professional help. (C) Natalie Katsman, 2000. Learn skin care secrets, find out how to protect your skin and preserve its youthful appearance. Visit us at: http://www.Natural-Aid.com *************************************** Our sponsors make this newsletter FREE to subscribers. Please take a moment to visit them. *************************************** The NutriCounter can help you to lose weight quickly, moderately, or slowly and be able to stay with it literally forever. You will look great, feel great, and be healthier than ever! And you will still be eating the foods you love! You WILL get the results you are looking for. Guaranteed or your money back - no questions asked. http://life-choices.com/cj/nutricounter.html *************************************** Awaken your creativity. Eliminate mental fatigue. Relieve tension. Our pure essential oils address your lifestyle needs through therapeutic aromatherapy. 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