Healthy Body, Healthy Business: Afternoon Fatigue

Question: “Healthy Body, Healthy Business: I find that I am increasingly tired in the afternoon. What can I do to boost my energy naturally?”

Suggestions:

Chiropractic

Fatigue is a really interesting topic as is it so multifactorial. My ears will certainly perk up, as a Chiropractor, when I hear fatigue added to a list with other symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, immune system problems, metabolism imbalance, periods of dizziness and moods swings.

What these body responses all have in common is that they are all symptoms of too much stress on your central neural processor, otherwise known as yours nervous system. Much like your computer’s hard drive, your Central Nervous System controls, regulates and stores all the body’s information. When your hard drive becomes too full of information (physical, chemical or emotional stresses), it slows down (fatigue). Eventually, if the hard drive continues on at this same pace without being cleaned up, it crashes.

Simple tests at your Chiropractors office can determine whether your hard drive is over loaded.

Dr. Jason Penaluna (Chiropractor)
Owner of Penaluna Chiropractic Studio, PS
Release-Rebuild-Revitalize
www.penalunachiropractic.com


Massage Therapy

First things first, check in with your body and your overall level of health, specifically nutrition. If you are lacking in a healthful diet, not consuming ideal amounts of water or consistently drink caffeine in the mornings, then that is a good place to start making changes. It is from food and water that we draw our sustainable energy, and a morning cup of coffee is known to create a “crash” effect in the afternoon.

Secondly, massage is a great way to increase circulation and improve body awareness, both assisting in improving overall well-being. Other ways to increase energy are to take deep, full breaths, move and stretch throughout the day and avoid heavy “comfort foods.”

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP.
Integrative Bodywork Professional
Seattle Holistic Health Examiner


Medical Intuitive

Each hour of the day is ruled by a specific organ and afternoon fatigue may be about how much water you drink today and yesterday.

The hours of 3-7p are ruled by the Element of Water. The Bladder and the Kidney Meridians.
If you have been not drinking enough water, dehydrated, or just partied too much last night your Kidney Meridian will measure very high and your Bladder Meridian will be very low. With two meridians that are next to each other in the middle of the day and the energy level must go from very low to very high…you might as well go and run 5 miles because you are almost exuding the same amount of energy to maintain such an imbalance.

Coffee and sugar and usually “helpers” here however, they may help you for the next hour but since they are even more dehydrating your evening will become even more exhausting.

Jacob Caldwell, LMP
Medical Intuitive
www.StepsToEnlightenment.com
Tweet: JacobStps2Lght


Aromatherapy

Afternoon fatigue can be caused by many things as mentioned by the previous practitioners. Many essential oils can be very helpful in supporting your afternoon fatigue very quickly and effectively.

The mint oils create immediate awakening and freshness such as Peppermint and Spearmint. Essential Oils such as Ginger, Clove and Lemon create an energetic awakening and Eucalyptus helps aid in opening the memory cells to create a better overall work performance.

There's absolutely no reason why you cannot combine all of the above mentioned Essential Oils into a synergy that resembles the following:

Sweet Almond Oil
2 Drops Peppermint
1 Drop Ginger
1 Drop Clove or Cinnamon
1 Drop Lemon
2 Drops Eucalyptus

Add to .3 oz. roller ball bottle found at Zenith Supplies in Ravenna in Seattle, WA. Or add to blue or amber apothecary bottle with reducer cap.

Carol Walter
Owner, Solace Essentials (http://www.solaceessentials.com)
"Inspirational Organic Bodycare"

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

Healthy Body, Healthy Business: Natural Migraine Solutions

Question: I have been getting headaches most of my life, from dull aches to full on migraines. I am trying to avoid prescription drugs, is there anything you can suggest to combat the episodes with holistic medicine?

Suggestions:

Chiropractic

There are hundreds of headache triggers but only one common reason: a change in blood flow to the cranial vault. Too much blood creates a mechanical stretching and pressure; too little blood creates malnourished and upset brain cells. However, here is a question for you: what controls the flow of blood throughout the body? THE NERVOUS SYSTEM does. That’s right, your Central Nervous System, including your brain, spinal cord and all the nerves in your body control where blood goes and how much goes there. If your nervous system becomes damaged and stressed, due to old injuries, traumas and habits, blood flow is altered and, among other things, a headache is a possible result. Simple tests at your Chiropractor’s office can detect whether you have nervous system damage that is affecting your head health.

Dr. Jason Penaluna
Chiropractor
www.penalunachiropractic.com


Aromatherapy

It's important to know what is causing the headaches. Once you know that, blending aromatherapy oils to help your body is simple. Use a dual-approach to health care. Talk to various practitioners about their diagnosis of the cause, and then it's going to be much more simple to treat the cause with natural remedies. See you Natropathic physician and then utilize aromatherapy for immediate, and intense relief and treatment. If stress is causing the migraines, a simple blend of Essential Oils to support the Adrenal Glands is appropriate. Regular use can over time help you attain homeostasis.

Carol Walter
Certified Aromatherapist
www.solaceessentials.com


Massage Therapy

From a massage therapy perspective, there are a number of ways to address chronic headaches. Tension carried in the upper back and shoulders, neck, jaw and even feet, can cause a painful occurrence. With therapeutic massage we can release the stored stress in the body through a variety of techniques.
Reflexology works with the structures in the feet to create balance from the ground up. Deep tissue massage works on the many layers of musculature in the body, and myofascial release addresses the connective tissue on both superficial and deep levels. Each of these modalities can be extremely effective in relieving the cause of headache.

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP
Integrative Bodywork Professional
Seattle Holistic Health Examiner


Medical Intuitive

As humans when we connect to the universe there is a cord to our physical body just like a computer plugs into the internet.

Our connection to Light and Universal Information comes through the top of our aura and connects and enters into the back of our head at the top of our spine. This is where we receive our purpose and the information of what to do next.

A common theme that affects this area is people trying to dominate or control others. Examples are Parents being overbearing to their children, Armies taking control of their troops, and Cult Leaders asking for all your money.

People with control issues, due to lack of trust of themselves and others will implant physic energy on to their victims. People allowing themselves to be controlled by this do so to be accepted and appease the more dominate person.

The migraine or chronic headache occurs because the victim has been implanted on the etheric level. On the physical level they will tighten the muscles in the back of their head trying to defy being taken over. Over time the back of the neck will become very tight cutting off the blood supply to the head.

Jacob Caldwell, LMP
Medical Intuitive & Massage Therapist
www.Steps2Light.net

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

Healthy Body, Healthy Business: Job Stress

Question:

I just lost my job. How can I reduce my anxiety about starting my own business?

Suggestions:

Medical Intuitive

Anxiety: “I don’t know who I am & and I don’t know what I’m doing. I react to what I think everyone else wants me to do.”
Remedy: Choose and live the way you want the world to be.

Courage and Strength is what is needed in this time to establish new plans of action. Stomach, Small Intestine, and Kidneys are the physical forces that hold to the plan and enforce the action.

If one has the courage but no idea of what to do perhaps you need to take a look at “What are your Goals?” Courage and Strength need to know what the plan is so when decisions and rules are set they no how to enforce the plan.

Look at your life…what do people like about you and what is that Passion that you have always wanted to do…Perhaps it is time.

Jacob Caldwell, LMP
Medical Intuitive
http://www.stepstoenlightenment.com/
Tweet: JacobStps2Lght


Massage Therapy

Therapeutic massage is a pleasurable and effective way to reduce anxiety in any difficult situation. Well known for its benefits of relaxation, massage also helps to increase circulation, boosts the immune system and assists in cultivating body awareness and balance. Since you are seemingly entering into a high-stress time of your life, massage is a wonderful way to combat the negative effects of stress and maintain health and wellness during these changes. Other preventative self-care activities include sitting and simply breathing consciously for 10 minutes a day, walking for 30 minutes a day and/or reading or participating in any stress-reducing and enjoyable activity.

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP.
Integrative Bodywork Professional Seattle Holistic Health Examiner


Aromatherapy

Anxiety has a negative and a positive effect on the body. For one, anxiety can help you become more creative and energized, but as a consequence, anxiety can tax the body and leave you with less energy in your day. Aromatherapy is extremely effective for anxiety because you will feel less stressed out, yet still excited and creative about your future and tackling what lies ahead! Essential oils that helps reduce anxiety and keep your excitement level high are essential oils for Central Nervous System (CNS) Balancing and Confidence-Boosting: Cypress, Geranium, Marjoram and Peppermint.

Blend the following mixture in a convenient bottle that you can take with you in your car or purse and apply to the place on your body where you feel the anxiety - such as your chest, abdomen, lower back, etc.

5 Cypress
3 Geranium
3 Marjoram
1 Peppermint
Fill rest of bottle with olive oil or sunflower oil - whichever is handy. Swirl around until oils combine (synergize). Use on skin anytime you feel anxious to balance you out and help you remain calm.

Carol Walter
Certified Aromatherapist: Solace Essentials (Pacific Northwest Organic Aromatherapy Bodycare for Chakra Balancing)
http://www.solaceessentials.com/
http://www.solaceessentials.blogspot.com/
http://www.solaceessentials.etsy.com/
http://twitter.com/solacessentials


Chiropractic

If you figure out how to do this, please let me know. Honestly, as a business owner myself, I really don’t think that there is a way to reduce anxiety when it comes to business ownership. However, here are a few suggestions that worked for me:

1. Stress and anxiety come from three different sources- physical, chemical and emotional- one should look at all sources of stress and do ones best to reduce as many sources as possible by making great lifestyle choices. Your health comes first! Without your health it will be very difficult to keep your energy where your business needs it to be.
2. Prepare yourself by having clearly defined goals. Visualize success and prosperity and remember, as Winston Churchill stated “Success is the ability to go from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.”
3. Enjoy the ride. There will be ups and downs because that is the nature of life; however, understand that business ownership is a ride, not a destination!
4. Hire a coach. Coaches inspire you with support, advice and accountability. Tiger Woods, perhaps a bad example right now, has 7 coaches. Maybe he needed 8 J.

Yours in service,
Dr. Jason Penaluna
(Chiropractor)
http://www.penalunachiropractic.com/


Craniosacral Therapy

Take one step at a time. Anxiety catches us when we let our minds go spinning off into the future and we lose sight of what is happening right here and right now. With a huge transition like that one you're going through, it's tempting to do, so start off by finding ways to stay present and focused.

What can you do to keep your focus as you plan your next step? Breathe. Stay clear. Meditate on what you want. I sometimes refer to craniosacral therapy as the “lazy man's meditation” because it launches you into an extremely relaxed state without having to work too hard at it. It transports you into a twilight state, between sleep and wakefulness, that allows ideas to be born and worries to subside. It is from this state of mind that you'll be able to keep your calm, be inspired, and think clearly about how to proceed as your build your future while keeping your feet planted firmly in the present.

Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Massage Therapist and Certified Craniosacral Therapist
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness
http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com/

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

Healthy Body, Healthy Business: Affects of Sitting for long periods

Question: I've been hearing that sitting for long periods is bad for my health. How could this be effecting me in ways of which I am unaware?

Suggestions:


Chiropractic

Sitting to the spine is like sugar to the teeth, there is no other way to say it. In my estimation, sitting is the real plague of the modern era and is responsible for conditions like fatigue, immune system suppression, sexual dysfunction, digestive disorders, scoliosis, obesity, organ dysfunction, difficult births, spine pain and sports injuries caused by a body that is shut down, to name a few. We are the only species on the planet that still educate our youth in the seated position which brings to mind the old Buddhist saying, “Bend the branch, so grows the tree.” In other words, spending hours sitting essentially shuts down your body and causes your spine to shape into postures that are severely detrimental to the health of your body, spine and nervous system. Once again, simple tests at your Chiropractor’s office will determine the overall state of health of your spine and nervous system.

Yours in health.

Dr. Jason Penaluna
(Chiropractor and owner of Penaluna Chiropracitc Studio, PS)
(For more information visit www.penalunachiropractic.com)


Craniosacral Therapy

Any job that requires someone sit for long periods of time is a physically demanding job. It really is. My clients that work like this know it to be true and often complain of back pain, especially in their low back. Sitting for long periods of time can be very hard on the spine, especially the sacrum, which is the bone at the very bottom of our spine. This discomfort will often travel up our back, affecting our neck and shoulders.

People that spend their days in a chair would do well to receive regular craniosacral treatments to regain full circulation and range of motion in their spine and to get rid of any pain and tension. Stretching at regular intervals throughout the day and investing in a good chair (or asking your company to do this) can be life savers, but if a fancy chair isn't an option an exercise ball is a great choice, too.


Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Massage Therapist and Certified Craniosacral Therapist
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness
http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com/


Aromatherapy

There’s no doubt that sitting for long periods of time will cause in the least pain and at the worst injury. That’s why it’s important to integrate the natural world into the office at every possible moment.

Essential oils are a great way to reinvigorate the body after sitting for a while and remind yourself of your connection to the natural world. Having fresh flowers in the office and drinking herbal teas are a great way to do this also.

Essential Oils of Eucalyptus and Peppermint help awaken the body and increase the memory capacity. Eucalyptus is a popular presence in Asia in offices to increase productivity. You may be motivated and reminded to take more breaks as a result of the exercise motivating power of Peppermint. This would create a better balance of sitting and standing throughout the day.


Carol Walter
Certified Aromatherapist
Solace Essentials
www.SolaceEssentials.com


Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

Healthy Body, Healthy Business: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

"I have been experiencing numbness and tingling down my arms into my fingers. It's worse in the morning and becoming more consistent. Any suggestions?"

Recommendations:

Corrective Exercise

From your description it would be a good idea to get evaluated by a Physical Therapist to rule out the chance of there being a disc injury. It is also important to understand that our muscles develop what are called ‘Trigger Points’ from overuse and trauma. The muscles response to a trigger point is to shorten and tighten which can lead to imbalance, pain, injury, and even nerve impingement. In your particular case it is often that the neck muscles become short and tight placing pressure on the nerve plexus feeding into the arm. This nerve impingement can cause the numb sensation you are experiencing. So, first it would be in your best interest to see a Physical Therapist in order to rule out a disc injury and then to order the trigger point self treatment book, which will guide you through the proper technique for dealing with such an issue. It is also likely that there is some level of postural imbalance involved. Often times postural imbalance is the reason nerve impingement occurs so it’s ideal to be involved in a corrective exercise program in order to properly manage these types of issues.
You can find “The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook “ at: www.triggerpointbook.com/

Jasson Zurilgen
C.H.E.K Practitioner
Heroics
www.heroicsusa.com


Massage Therapy

Numbness down the arms, also called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can be a relatively common issue for anyone exhibiting forward head and rounded shoulder posture, particularly for those who sit for long periods of time behind a desk/computer. Massage can be very effective in opening up the chest a frontal shoulder muscles and releasing trigger points and facial adhesions in the tissue that is blocking nerve intervention. Along with regular stretching and increased water intake, massage is a great way to address this disturbing sensation.

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP.
Massage Therapist, Reflexologist
Holistic Health Examiner


Chiropractic

When one experiences numbness and tingling it essentially means that your nerves are being irritated, compressed or chaffed by some sort of tissue. The tissues involved in aggravating these nerves can be tendons, cartilage, swelling or even bone. Unfortunately this type of symptom is often caused by something that occurs at a place other than the sight of the pain. I realize that what I just wrote may sound strange since for a long time health care providers have limited their search for problems to the involved area. However, in this case the neck region is where all the nerves that control the arms come from; specifically, from the fourth cervical vertebrae to the first thoracic vertebrae. This group of nerves originating from the neck is called the brachial plexus and these nerves control every aspect of what goes on with the arms including movement, immunity, blood supply, energy metabolism and, in your case, sensation. Due to our stressful lifestyles, these nerves can be irritated and damaged by what is known as a Subluxation. A Subluxation is an area of the spine that is not moving well which damages the nerves exiting the spine at that level causing things like pain, poor control of the shoulders and arms and a host of other dysfunctions. Simple tests at your Chiropractors office can determine if you indeed have Subluxations that may be affecting the nerves causing the numbness and tingling. Remember that the body is self healing and self regulating and it is the nervous system - including your brain, spinal cord and all the nerves that travel throughout your body- that controls healing and regulation. Making sure that it is healthy and functioning properly will secure the best possible chance to heal from anything!

Dr. Jason Penaluna
Chiropractor
Penaluna Chiropracitc Studio, PS
www.penalunachiropractic.com


Craniosacral Therapy

The relationship between your shoulders, arms, wrists, and neck provides many opportunities for this to occur, especially if the muscles in these areas become tight or inflamed. If this happens, they will in turn constrict the nerves that run beneath these muscles and can cause the tell-tale numbness and tingling. Unfortunately, this is pretty common.

With craniosacral therapy we relax the muscles that are compressing the nerves so they can function properly again. We can also restore proper flow of fluids to these structures. We can even pick up the arm and wrist and skillfully unwind the large bands of tissue that wrap around and within the hand, arm, shoulder, and neck. Opening up these tissues helps to renew sensation throughout the arms and relieve you of your symptoms.

Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Massage Therapist and Certified Craniosacral Therapist
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness
http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com/


Medical Intuitive

In the 80’s and 90’s it was Carpal Tunnel for Secretaries and Writers. Now the Current similar issue is “Computer Mouse Arm”. When spending 20+ hours at the computer one may notice how they continually holding up your arm. If a muscle is continually flexed for a long time while the user is in a state of stress that motion will become very tight.

“Computer Mouse Arm” will be pain in the top of the forearm, bicep, top of the shoulder, and the area between the spine and upper shoulder. When these muscles get tight they can cut off the nerves to the hands causing tingling in the pinky and ring fingers.

Notice when your are working at your computer and see you are holding your arm up while it is doing no work. Become more conscious of this behavior and practice relaxing your arm while “Mousing”.

Jacob Caldwell, LMP
Medical Intuitive
www.StepsToEnlightenment.com


Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine

This can be addressed a few different ways with Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine. There are 12 major meridians or pathways of energy that run on both sides of the body. In Five-Element Acupuncture, we need to check if the flow on one side of a meridian is deficient or running in-excess comparatively to the other side. This can create one-sided issues including pain, loss of range-of-motion, numbness/tingling, etc. The diagnosis/treatment of this type of imbalance is fairly simply to explore and remedy. Traditional Chinese Medicine would look at it a little different. This would be diagnosed as Qi and Blood Stagnation in whatever meridian(s) goes through the affected area. Since TCM also takes into account Western science influences, with numbness/tingling we’d want to include treatment of the cervical spine. There are acupuncture points in-between and on either side of each vertebrae called Hua Tuo Jia Ji points that are commonly used for this sort of thing. Effective techniques would include standard acupuncture, electro-acupuncture (specific current through the needles to create physiological change), and cupping in and around the neck, shoulders, and down the affected arm(s). For more information on cupping go to - http://thezenofhealing.com/cupping/

David A. Tucker, MSAOM, L.Ac, LMP
The Zen of Healing
david@thezenofhealing.com
http://www.thezenofhealing.com

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

How do I cope with Fibromyalgia, endometriosis etc:

“I have FM, mitral valve prolapse, endometriosis, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia...etc. Where can I find the latest on how to cope?”

Suggestions:

Cranio Sacral therapy

When someone has several things they need to manage with their health, I tend to think that a gentle, but comprehensive approach, is a good way to offer overall support. You want to find some relief from your pain and stress without aggravating any of your current symptoms or causing more imbalance. Many forms of touch therapy, such as craniosacral therapy, can be very beneficial for this.

With craniosacral therapy we can help relieve the nervous system of some of the chaos it's experiencing, soothe the stress response, and decrease the general levels of inflammation in the body which are contributing to many of the challenges you are dealing with. Pair it with daily practice of relaxing breathing exercises and you can go far in feeling better.

Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Massage Therapist and Certified Craniosacral Therapist
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness
http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com/


Chiropractic

Thank you so much for asking this question as it opens the door to address some very important issues involving the health of your body and, might I add, the health of your mind. First, I would like to address an interesting point about how you asked your question. Why do you feel that all you can do at this stage is just to cope? My first suggestion would be to watch the movie “The Secret” which will help you to absorb the concept of “where your mind goes your body will follow.”
Secondly, all of the things that you mentioned in your question are not diseases, they are signs; signs that your mind, body and spirit are in a state of crisis. My first instinct is to say that your body is in a chronic state of inflammation and that your blood is moving towards acidity and away from alkalinity. Our esteemed Naturopath can help you there. Then, as a Chiropractor, I am naturally inquisitive as to the state of health of your nervous system. Blood acidity causes an in-efficient and agitated nervous system. The nervous system is the master system of the body and controls healing. It is important that this system remain healthy in order to start the task of balancing and healing your body.

Yours in health.
Dr. Jason Penaluna
(Chiropractor and owner of Penaluna Chiropracitc Studio, PS)
(For more information visit www.penalunachiropractic.com)


Naturopathic Medicine

It is my professional opinion that you should not be trying to “fix” your health concerns by yourself. There are many issues to consider in your case and try to do it alone may make matters worse and complicate the whole picture. I would also advise to keep in mind that there is a difference between your question on “coping” versus the larger question at hand, “healing”. The allopathic MD answer is on how to cope, where the Naturopathic philosophy is to never underestimate the healing potential of your vital force.
Whenever I see a list of health concerns such as these I take a step back and ask, what do all of these have in common? The nervous system and the muscular system are very susceptible to damage from toxicity. The ayurvedic and naturopathic approach are similar in that they both will strive to decrease the patient’s toxic burden. This is done by eliminating toxic build up in the system (via a detox program) and by eliminating toxic exposure (via diet and lifestyle changes). In addition, your symptoms may also be related to nutritional deficiencies; for example: omega-3 fats; minerals such as zinc, selenium, calcium and magnesium; vitamins C,D,E & Bs. These are just a few examples. Finally, it can never be ignored to do a heavy metal screen. Heavy metal toxicity affects all the organ systems of the body, and as mentioned above, some of the most sensitive systems are the nervous and muscular systems.
I would advise against doing your own detox program without supervision. For example, if you mobilize toxins and your organs of elimination are not able to handle this influx, you may become much more ill and induce more serious symptoms. Again I urge you to seek out a naturopathic doctor to get a sense of what options are available to you.

Alexandra Porter, ND
Kerala (Seattle office) 206-729-9999
Northcreek Clinic (Bothell office) 425-485-6059

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

How do I address knee pain?

Question:

"My Doctor just recommended I get surgery for my ongoing knee pain. Is there any way to avoid this surgery, or at least prepare my body for healing?"

Suggestions:

Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is becoming a “go-to” modality when it comes to pain. Whether it’s preparative or rehabilitative in the midst of surgery, or to circumvent surgery all together, the use of acupuncture, electro-stimulation, and herbal liniments can really get stagnated qi and blood moving, as well as restore balance to our system. I’ve seen recovery times cut in half! According to Chinese Medicine, the knees are governed by the Kidney meridian, along with the low-back, bones, urinary, sexual, auditory functions, and the emotion of fear (to name a few). It would be worthwhile to explore these areas, as there might be a larger picture than simply looking at the knee. With that in mind, on a deeper level, as a Five Element acupuncturist, we see the body’s “symptoms” (especially chronic) as a manifestation of an underlying imbalance, usually on the level of mind (emotions) or spirit. Pain above all, is a protective function for us. So I feel it is vital to explore what else has happened and is happening in someone’s life, where else there is stagnation that may be preventing the body from doing what it is meant to naturally...heal itself!

David A. Tucker, MSAOM, L.Ac, LMP
The Zen of Healing
206-696-1121
david@thezenofhealing.com
http://www.thezenofhealing.com


Corrective Exercise

Surgery tends to be a very popular treatment approach amongst most Doctors for dealing with joint pain. Yes, in some cases the severity of the injury or degeneration can be extreme enough that surgery is necessary, but before you take your Doctors word for it there are some very important things to understand.

For instance, the balance and function of the musculoskeletal system is vital to the health of all the joints of the body. Without proper postural alignment of the skeletal system the joints become dysfunctional and subject to pain and or injury. A major determinant of postural alignment and joint function is the length tension relationship between the muscles surrounding the joint. The better balanced these muscles are the more evenly the force of movement is distributed across the joint, eliminating unnecessary ware and tare on the inert structures that make up the joint. It would be in your best interest to work towards this balance before having surgery.

Now, there is still the most important function, from a structural standpoint, to understand when dealing with joint pain and that is that of the abdominal wall. Vital to proper postural alignment and joint function the abdominal wall creates stability within the entire trunk (spine, pelvis and rib cage) giving the knee and all other joints of the leg a solid platform from which to operate. Whether or not surgery is needed, good abdominal coordination must be a goal within the treatment plan or dysfunction and pain will continue to reside within the joint.

Jasson Zurilgen
C.H.E.K Practitioner
Heroics
www.heroicsusa.com


Chiropractic

Knee pain is an interesting one as it exposes a great opportunity not only to dive into the knee itself but also to address issues regarding how the body works. So, I am going to spend part of my answer to your question talking about how your body works and the other part directly addressing the knee.

The most successful way I know to begin addressing the workings of the body is by using analogies. In this particular analogy your spine represents the foundation of your house while the walls are represented by your legs and arms. If your walls start to crumble, wall paper starts to tear and the paint starts to chip because your foundation is not flat does it make any sense to apply new wall paper, re-paint and re-plaster the walls; of course not? That would be a waste of time, energy and money. Instead, it would make sense to go back to the foundation and level it. Well, the body works in very much the same way. Because your limbs connect to the spine, they are hugely susceptible to how your spine is lined up. As a result, under these circumstances, limb pain is only an effect, while the cause is how your “foundation” is looking and working.

Regarding the knee itself, there two points I would like to make. First, the knee is greatly affected by the functioning of the foot. Any damage, history of ankle sprains or lack of proper functioning of the foot can cause stress on the knee as the forces of gravity work their way up the limbs. Secondly, your knee itself can become misaligned. That’s right, the tibia, or shin bone, can become rotated and thus can put stress on all the muscles, ligaments and tendons of the knee as these tissues try to adapt and accommodate to the misalignment. Whatever the cause of your knee pain, simple tests at your Chiropractor’s office can determine whether Chiropractic can help.

Dr. Jason Penaluna
(Chiropractor and owner of Penaluna Chiropracitc Studio, PS)
(For more information visit www.penalunachiropractic.com)


Craniosacral Therapy

Knee pain can very often be reduced by craniosacral therapy, as it increases proper flow of fluids around the joint and eases restrictions in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the knee. In treatment, we may even find that your knee pain is due to something unsuspected. Did you know knee pain can be caused by a prolapsed kidney and then relieved by gently working with the position of the kidney? Just one possible option of many, and one that doesn't require going under the knife. But if surgery is inevitable, there are cranial techniques that will ease tension, stress, and congestion in the knee and the nervous system, helping to relax the body before the procedure. Follow up treatments after the surgery will speed healing in the tissues as well.

Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Massage Therapist and Certified Craniosacral Therapist
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness
http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com


Feng Shui

The knee and leg are associated with the Career Gua in Feng Shui.

The Career Gua deals with security, foundation, grounding, life path, and life experience. In the Black Hat sect of Feng Shui, the Career Gua is located in the middle of the wall wherever your front door (to your house, or to a room) is located. The best color in that area is black.

Before going into surgery make sure that area of your home/room is clean, organized, and you feel secure (no lingering doubts or questions). Since Career also deals with life experience and life path, take some time to examine how you got to this place in your life, as well as thinking about where you're heading to. The legs help us mobilize physically, but they also represent mobilization metaphorically so if our legs are in good shape, then we can move forward easily.

Becca Campbell


Naturopathic Medicine

There is usually a way to avoid surgery, depending on the cause for the knee pain. One should always seek multiple alternative health providers for a second opinion before surgery is considered for knee pain.

In addition to bodywork, corrective exercise and physical therapy, there are many other factors to consider. Whether it be a naturopathic or ayurvedic philosophy, nutrition and gut health are the foundation for healthy joints. For example, either approach appreciates the importance of healthy fats and oils when dealing with any joint issue. Nutritional deficiencies or food intolerances will also adversely affect joint health. Either approach will use herbal medicines and supplements to treat pain and inflammation as well as to encourage healing to take place.

Naturopathic medicine also includes physical methods of healing such as ultrasound, short-wave diathermy, cold laser, contrast hydrotherapy and poultices to just name a few. Ayurveda has its own physical methods to also encourage tissue regeneration, i.e. healing without surgery.

Alexandra Porter, N.D.
Kerala (Seattle office) 206-729-9999
Northcreek Clinic (Bothell office) 425-485-6059


Medical Intuitive

I believe most injury pain below the hips are due to the way we walk. Tight muscles in the legs will pull hip, knee, and ankle joints out of place. When bones are pulled out of place the joints don’t have enough room to move thus causing such symptoms as arthritis and excessive joint pain.

Our mind tells our body how to move. If we are depressed you won’t walk upright and will start to lean forward. This will put more weight on your knees as your body has to counter the weight from always leaning forward. Walking upright and having correct posture technique will give your body more strength thus alleviating the stress one will put on there body.

The more you are empowered to watch you own health the less you will need emergency care. See my article on “How to walk consciously and correctly”. http://biznik.com/members/jacob-caldwell-lmp/articles/how-to-walk-without-an-orthodic-crutch

Jacob Caldwell, LMP
Medical Intuitive
www.StepsToEnlightenment.com


Massage Therapy

There are many avenues you can explore before undergoing invasive surgery. My first response is to get a second opinion. Specifically, seek a physical therapist or more holistic practitioner that can give you in depth information and possibly a variety of well-rounded options. There are unfortunately a lot of physicians that recommend unnecessary surgery. Listen to your instincts and make sure that you feel completely confident in what is being suggested. Ask questions; be informed about your body and what exactly is happening in the structures.

If it is indeed determined that surgery is appropriate for your condition, there are many facets of massage therapy that can aid with both the preparation and the healing of the structures involved. Depending on the current start of your knee, trigger point release, lymphatic drainage and basic Swedish techniques can help restore tissue health and increase circulation in preparation for the trauma of surgery.

During the acute stage of healing, contrast hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage massage, some passive range of motion and muscle energy techniques can continue to improve range of motion and functionality of the joint. And in the final stages of healing, cross fiber friction on the incision will help to break up scar tissue and renew the best health possible in the area.

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP.
Massage Therapist, Reflexologist
Holistic Health Examiner

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