Doctor's Blog

Max Daily Dose of Tylenol Lowered

7/29/2011

Some of you may have heard today that Johnson and Johnson has announced that they will be lowering the maximum daily dosage of Extra Strength Tylenol from 8 pills per day to 6. As of right now the dosage of Tylenol is set at 4000 milligrams/day but will soon be lowered to 3000 milligrams/day. The company states that this is because too many people have been abusing the maximum dosage recommendation thus resulting in liver failure! Just because you can easily buy an over the counter medication, you should realize that you are still consuming a drug, in this case a possibly harmful one. The company goes on to say that acetometaphen is the active ingredient in many different OTC drugs, such as NyQuil and Sudafed. The combining of several drugs at once can damage the liver and if the levels of acetometaphen are high enough can lead to permanent liver damage or failure (this means you could die).
If you are in chronic pain, you need to start looking for the cause of the pain rather than masking the daily symptoms. If your doctor has not told you to start a regimine of acetometaphen and you are taking the maximum dosage daily, it is time to talk to your doctor. Although the maximum dosage is deemed safe by Tylenol reps, the build up of acetametaphen can cause damage to the liver over time. If you are on prescription pain killers and have been referred to every medical doctor under the sun, maybe it's time that you start to look into alternative medicine, such as chiropractic and acupuncture.

Skip the Ranch

7/27/2011

This post was compliments of a good friend and colleague of mine, Dr. Raymond Rosado, who co-owns Motions Chiropractic in Reading, PA. I wanted to post this recipe because I haven't made it in a while and I remember it being so good, I will have to go buy some yeast flakes this weekend!

Skip that ranch, caesar, or italian dressing next time! Try this delicious lemony dressing that is a great source of B-complex vitamins, including Cyanocobalamin (B12).

The B vitamins are a chemically related family of nutrients that work as a team. Their mood-boosting and other health benefits
(see chart below) result from intricate behind-the-scenes work in the body. Some B vitamins help cells burn fats and glucose for energy. Others help make neurotransmitters like serotonin. And some B's assist with the production and repair of DNA.

Many of us don't get enough B's; according to the USDA, deficiencies in folic acid, B12, and B6 are especially common. Ensuring that your diet contains plenty of B-rich foods -- dark-green vegetables, protein from animal sources, and whole grains -- is critical.

Nutritional Yeast Dressing Recipe:

1 Cup Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1/3 Cup Nutritional Yeast Flakes

3 Tbsp. Organic Tamari Sauce

1 Lemon juiced

Combine ingredients in a glass container with a lid (add yeast last) and shake vigorously until well mixed. Store in a cool dry place (do not refrigerate) and use within 7-10 days. Pour over 3-4 tablespoons over your favorite salad, steamed/roasted vegetables. Enjoy!

Also, try sprinkling yeast flakes over your next batch of home made organic popcorn for a great healthy snack!

Dr.'s Rosado and Colon, co-owners of Motions Chiropractic also have a webpage with an active blog. To check out more nutritional advice visit www.motionschiropractic.com, and if you happen to be in the Reading PA area, be sure to stop by their office!

US ranked #36 in life expectancy

7/25/2011

The United Nations keeps track of life expectancy rates. The latest ranking was done between the years of 2005 and 2010. For this list only countries with populations over 100,000 were included, with figures reflecting health care quality, war/genocide, and disease (ie. HIV/AIDS). According to them the average life expectancy around the globe is 65 years for males and 69.5 years for women. The US is above average, with males averaging 75.6 years and women 80.8 years, but our ranking is much lower than other countries, in fact we only have the 36th highest life expectancy rate (tying with Denmark and Cuba). The country with the highest life expectancy is Japan. In Japan the life expectancy for men rises to 78 years and 86.1 years for women. It may also surprise you to learn of some of the other countries that have surpassed us: Costa Rica (30), Singapore (15), and Hong Kong (2).
So why then, if we live in such a great country, are we not living as long. The simple fact is that we don't take care of ourselves. The countries that beat us on the life expectancy list are more active and have diets high in fruits, veggies, and seafood, and low in grains and fried food. There was a small article with health secrets from around the world on yahoo today. If you check out this article it will detail just a few of the cultural differences in several of the places that ranked higher than us. Most of these differences involve eating less processed foods, being more active, and managing stress. To learn more about living healthier contact your local chiropractor, or me, and if you have any family or friends that have surpassed the US average, make sure to post a comment and share their secrets!

Rotary Update

7/22/2011

So it's official, I am finally an official member of the Glenville Rotary Club. One of my first activites that I will be supporting is the first annual muddy sneakers 5K at Collins Park in Glenville. Many of the rotary members have helped to clear out a path through the wooded area of the park by putting down mulch and cutting away small trees and branches. I initially wanted to run in this 5K but have been given the opportunity to have a booth at the end of the 5K. I will be there cheering on runners and supplying bottled water for when they cross the finish line. If you are interested in doing the run, contact the glenville rotary club on their website and download the registration form. Hope to see you there!

How to Use Sunscreen Effectively

7/20/2011

    I heard on the radio this morning that as of noon today, lasting until 8pm on friday, we will have a heat advisory in the capital region. All across the nation temperatures are on the rise which means a higher likelihood for sun burns and dehydration, so I'd like to take the time to blog today about sunscreen.  We all buy it, but do we all apply it, and then reapply? I did some research about sunscreen and hope to answer some of the questions you may have about SPF and the best ways to stay safe in the sun.
    The term SPF actually stands for Sun Protection Factor, and as you may already know the higher the SPF value the more protection you have from the sun. When choosing an SPF keep this in mind, the higher the number on the bottle the longer you will be able to stay in the sun without burning. So if you normally begin to burn after 15 minutes in the sun and you put on a sunscreen with an SPF of 15, essentially you should be able to stay in the sun 15x longer (about 3 1/2 hours) without burning. Keep in mind that reapplications are needed about every 20-30 minutes for the active ingredients to stay effective. You also need to reapply after going in water or working up a sweat (even if you have 'water resistant' sunscreen).
    One of the big topics in the news today is about how high of an SPF you should get. Over the past years it seems as though SPF values have been getting higher and higher, having personally seen some SPFs of 90 and 100 on the shelves at local drug stores. Research is starting to come out that suggests that SPFs over 30 or 45 are not any more effective at blocking UVB rays than lower SPFs.  Along with bei
    Another tip when looking for a sunscreen is to choose a broad spectrum lotion. Most sunscreens only protect against UVB rays, no matter how high of an SPF you get. To ensure that you are getting some protection against UVA rays make sure that your sunscreen contains one of the following: Avobenzone (also known as Parsol 1789 or butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane), Titanium dioxide, Zinc oxide, Anthelios SX, or Helioplex (the Neutrogena blend of Avobenzone and Oxybenzone). Both UVA and UVB rays cause skin damage and can lead to skin cancer, so it is critical that you try to find a sunscreen that protects against both.
    I would recommend that everyone wear at least a 20-30 SPF broad spectrum sunscreen and to reapply every 30 minutes. Higher SPFs, such as 45, and more frequent reapplications may be needed depending on your personal skin type, the intensity of the sun where you live and how much you sweat or go in the water. So be careful this summer and make sure to protect your skin. Prevention is the best 'treatment' for sun burns and skin cancer.

Not All Chiropractors Are the Same?!

7/18/2011

This may come as a shock to some people, but not all chiropractors practice in a similar manner. Some DCs are influenced by family members, personal experience or their interest in certain techniques. Having said that let me back up a minute and explain how chiropractors can differ from one to the other (as you may have only ever visited one chiropractor).
Manual chiropractic manipulations or adjustments are what many people, but not all, would connect the word chiropractic to. As seen to the left, this involves positioning patients in different positions and using their own hands
and body weight to move joints that are not moving properly. Cavitations or audible pops are usually heard, but are not necessary for an adjustment to be successful. This is a technique that I use daily.
The second most widely used technique in the chiropractic profession is performed by using a small tool, commonly known as an Activator. Tool assisted adjusting has many benefits, and can be a helpful alternative to manual adjusting. The small tool puts a high velocity force into an exact joint, allowing for increased motion. The activator technique has several different steps, which allow the doctor to know what vertebrae to adjust and in
what direction. I will on occasion use tool assisted adjustments for patient who are osteoporotic or simply do not wish to be manually adjusted, but I know of many chiropractors who use this tool to perform all their adjustments.
Chiropractors can be divided into two categories, straight chiropractors and diversified chiropractors. Straight chiropractors usually have the philosophy that you only need to adjust the spine (very straight DCs believe that you only need to adjust the atlas, the first vertebrae in the spinal column) and that everything else, the muscles, nerves, and other soft tissues will then heal themselves. Diversified chiropractors have a much broader definition of
what chiropractic should be. As a diversified chiropractor myself, I think that treating muscles and soft tissue (through trigger point therapy, stretching and strength training) can be just as important as the adjustment itself. Although atlas adjusting can be very powerful and effective I believe that there is more to be gained by addressing more than just one bone in the body.
One of the newest inventions in the chiropractic profession is the Proadjuster, an instrument that is able to detect and correct hypomobilities via biofeedback. It is similar to the tool assisted technique as described above without any of the protocol, examination or palpation. The tool is supposed to be able to tell the vibratory frequency of the bone it is adjusting, making an examination unnecessary. Personally I don't think there has been enough research done to support the use of this tool. I also think that this tool takes away from what chiropractic is supposed to be, 'done by
hand.' There are some DCs that use this tool and have patients that swear by it, but unlike all the techniques/ tools described above, the use of this tool was not taught at NYCC and is extremely expensive. I remain open to all new techniques and inventions, but am also wary of new costly inventions with little supporting research.
There are other techniques I have not discussed here, such as flexion/distraction and drop technique, because it is much rarer to find a DC who only uses these techniques alone. There may also be other DCs who practice in ways that I have not mentioned here, but these are some of the most common types of practices out there today. I believe I have made it clear the way in which I choose to practice chiropractic, a diversified chiropractor who uses manual manipulation among other techniques and tools to assist her patients in reaching their wellness and injury recovery goals.
Like so many other things in life make sure to do your research beforehand. Learn your doctor's philosophy and mission statement and make sure you know what to expect when you pick out a chiropractor. The best chiropractor to choose is the one that has your best interests in mind and listens to your concerns. If you have any other questions about my practice, chiropractic in general, or a certain technique be sure to check out my contact me page and send me a 'comment.'

What's Your Eco-Footprint

7/15/2011

    I was on my way to the office this morning when I noticed that it was recycling day for my neighboring block. This small trigger brought back memories of a project that I did in college. I was in my biology class and assigned to do a research presentation on 'global footprints.' At this time I had no idea what a global footprint was, so everything I learned about this project from then on was new to me. Today I thought that I would go off the beaten path of discussions and health and wellness and talk a little about our environment and how we affect it every day. The project really opened my eyes to exactly how many resources I use every day.
    When I came into the office this morning, I Googled Global Footprint and found this site that allowed you to calculate your footprint by answering a few questions (it takes about 5 minutes to complete the entire thing if you take the longer quiz). Some the questions were about the types of animal products you eat, what your modes of transportation are, and how much energy you use. I thought that I was pretty good about recycling, eating locally and turning off electronics when not in use, but according to the quiz (which I know is an estimate), if everyone in the world ate, lived, and transported themselves as I do, we would need 3.9 'earths' to sustain our way of life. This was around the same estimate that I had while in college. The calculator will increase your footprint by simply living in the US (I noticed this in college when I kept my answers the same and changed the
country).
    I encourage everyone I know to be watchful of how they use resources. The human race has only been on earth for a fraction of the time that the earth has existed. Just because the environment isn't changing on an hourly basis, it is changing and many researchers and scientist would say for the worse. I remember hearing somewhere that Native Americans would always make
decisions after they had thought about the consequences that those decisions would have on their relatives 5 generations from now. If we all started to change out mindsets to reflect a similar way of thinking I think that the world would surely become a better sustained and happier place to live (and no I am not a hippie).
    Here are some of my hints on how you can help decrease your footprint. Eat local, non-processed foods, not only are they better for the environment (less pesticides and travel time), but they are fresher and healthier for you. Car pool when you can, consider using public modes of transportation, and be aware of your gas mileage. Unplug appliances or turn off power strips when you’re not home, this will save energy and bring down your gas & electric bill. Lastly, if you don't already recycle make sure to start, and if you already do recycle think about starting a compost or buying items that are made with recycled materials. With all this being said, make sure to check out the Global Calculator above and look into more options that can help decrease your global footprint. Taking pride in your environment will rub off in other areas of your life, possibly leading to new fitness and nutritional goals!

Advertising Updates

7/13/2011

I have been so busy this week with networking and advertising that I thought I would share some of my upcoming events/ads. The Downtown Schenectady Improvement center is holding their annual lunch-in next Tuesday and yours truly will be attending. I thought that it would be a great way to network and meet fellow business owners in the community. If you are planning on
attending, let me know and hopefully I will see you there. I also have heard from the Glenville Rotary Club that my official induction into the club will happen at the end of this month, on the 29th. I've been attending the Friday meetings and am excited to finally start my membership and get involved in community events. My first ad will also be circulating this month, next week in
fact, in The Spotlight. The ad will be running a few times this summer, so be on the lookout for that! Also I have contacted both the Yellowbook and Verizon Super Media about advertising in next year’s yellow pages. I have heard some good advice from close friends and colleagues on how to advertise and what to put in my ad, needless to say I am excited but disappointed that I will not be able to see my ad run until next year’s books come out. Lastly, I have started my ad campaign via foot. This Tuesday was the first outing of several to come that I have started to formally introduce myself to the surrounding local business and doctor's offices. If you know of any good PTs, PCPs, Ortho Docs, podiatrist, ect., feel free to send me any suggestions.

Summer Activities in Upstate NY...have fun and lower your stress!

7/11/2011

    Well it seems like summer has officially arrived. After a beautiful weekend and a promising forecast for the week ahead, it looks like I might be able to start enjoying some cold lemonade and afternoon picnics. With the economy still slowly recovery, don't let finances get in your way of having fun, today I will give you a list of activities that range from free to under $100. The summer is too short, especially in NY, so get pumped up, get outside, and go play (no matter what age you are!)

1. Adirondack Extreme $35-$45
    My fiancé, friends and myself loved going to this aerial obstacle course. It was physically and mentally challenging (if you are afraid of heights), the at the end of the day you are left with a feeling of accomplishment. I would recommend this activity to young couples looking for something fun to do on the weekend. The course takes about 3-4 hours to complete and ranges in levels of difficulty. Check online for height and age requirements and make sure to book reservations ahead of time.
2. Ride on the Mini-Ha-Ha $12.25 and under
    I remember riding on the Mini-Ha-Ha as a child with my family. The ticket prices are reasonable and it is a great experience for children, families, couples and people of all ages. There is an array of different cruises to choose from and their departure times are scattered throughout the day. Also don’t forget that there are fireworks all summer long in Lake George (check out online to see the day and times).
3. Picnic and Hiking in Thatcher Park Free/ Cost of Food
     I actually just visited this state park this past weekend, and it is as beautiful as I remember. We went on a nice and easy walk on the Indian Ladder Trail and made sure to take lots of pictures. The views were stunning and the cost was free to park at the overlook. You could easily make a fun filled day with family and friends at this location. I think that I'll have to return soon with some picnic goodies and outdoor games.
4. Day at the Race Track $3 and up
    The Saratoga Race Track is a token landmark of Upstate NY and if you have never been, then this summer would be a great time to check it out. Even if you don't like to gamble, the track is still a nice time. You can enjoy watching the races and get caught up in the excitement.
5. Trip to the Boston Aquarium $64-$75
    If you know that it might rain during the weekend, then it might be a good time to check out an indoor activity like the aquarium. Wade tours offers round trip transportation and includes ticket prices to the aquarium. With gas prices back on the rise, having a charted tour takes allows you to really enjoy your ride and not work about driving/ stopping to fill up. The same tour company also offers trip for whale watching and multi-day get away.
6. Adirondack Tubing Adventure $18.95
    I haven't actually used this company to go on a tubing adventure, but I have done this in other locations and can say from experience that this activity is fun for everyone. Whether you want to lay back and enjoy the ride or horse around with friends and family, you can have fun no matter your age.

    These are just a few activities that I have enjoyed in the past and look forward to doing again in the near future. Whatever you decide to do this summer, make sure to enjoy the weather and get outside. Being able to relax and have fun allows us to control our stress levels. Decreasing your stress is good for your health in more ways than one, so do yourself a favor and go play!

How Chiropractic may Help with Infertility

7/8/2011

    With all the TV shows about teen pregnancy it may seem like it is harder to prevent pregnancy rather than become pregnant. In many cases it depends on the age of the woman, with women over the age of 30 usually having a harder time becoming pregnant than their younger counterparts, and with more women waiting to finish their education and establish a career before starting a family this problem is on the rise. In reality, about 10% of women in the US between the ages of 14 and 55 have some kind of impaired fertility (around 6 million women), and this number is expected to increase in the years to come. When main stream medicine fails to help these women, many are starting to try yoga, acupuncture, and chiropractic.
    More studies are being done that link the use of chiropractic and increased fertility rates. From what I have learned and read it makes sense that low back adjustments would have a positive impact on fertility rates. All of the nerves in our body stem from the central nervous system, which is composed of our brain and spinal cord. The spinal cord runs down our entire back and has 31 pairs of nerves that exit throughout the spine and go on to innervate every piece of skin, organ and muscle in our body. This is one of the reasons that pain in your foot or hand could originate from a compromised spinal nerve several feet away from where you feel your pain.
    The nerves that exit from your lumbar spine and sacrum therefor are responsible for innervating the uterus and ovaries. When your spine is not moving properly (subluxations) then the nerve is forced to remain in a state of stasis, filled with toxins and deprived of proper nutrients. These nerves are less likely to function at their optimal capabilities. If the nerves that are supposed to be innervating the uterus and ovaries are not working properly then these organs will not function normally, leading to infertility. With regular chiropractic adjustments, the spine is able to regain its normal motion and the nerves are able to accurately send and receive information. Another reason that chiropractic may help with infertility is that adjustments help with relax the soft tissues in the surrounding areas. The ligaments around the uterus and ovaries, including the round ligament, are therefor able to relax and facilitate normal functioning. When all other medical reasoning has been ruled out for infertility, chiropractic may just be the miracle that you need to conceive.
    While some women may swear that chiropractic helped them to become pregnant, spinal adjustments may not work in every case of infertility (as nerve function and soft tissue may not be the reason why they are infertile). Even though I have explained why spinal adjustments may help with infertility, more research still needs to be done. Luckily the benefits of chiropractic are vast, so even if chiropractic cannot help with this specific problem your body will still feel and function better than it did before.