Why Are We So Busy?
Why is our practice so busy? It’s simple…
We give patients what THEY want!
Imagine this. You go into a restaurant… a rather expensive one. You sit down and when the waiter or waitress comes over to you - THEY TELL YOU WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO EAT AND PAY FOR!
Even worse, they tell you that you can only eat today if you commit to eating there several times a week for the next few months.
What would you do if your food server told you that? You’d probably get up and walk out…
Right?
You would go to a restaurant where you can order whatever you want, have it prepared just the way you like it, and you could come back whenever you want… or never again.
What does all this restaurant talk have to do with you and why our practice is so busy?
Quite a bit.
You see – there are two basic types of doctors. The first type dictates your care. They examine you and tell you exactly what your care plan is going to be.
This is not a bad thing. They are trained professionals and should be giving you what they believe is the best possible treatment plan.
But, that does not mean they are always right… or that treatment plan is the best for YOU.
That’s Why In This Office, We Try Hard To Be Different.
We examine patients and tell them exactly what is going on. But, we also listen to our patients and take into consideration YOUR input.
The most important thing is WHAT YOU WANT, not necessarily what we think is best.
That’s why we customize our recommendations and work with YOU to give YOU exactly what YOU want.
In other words… we treat you as if you were a member of our family. We always ask ourselves…
If This Patient Was My Relative What Would I Do?
That means – we do not try to make you commit to long term treatment plans.
Who wants to commit to something they don’t know they are going to like?
For that reason, you can try a few visits and see if it really is for you. If it is… and you are getting the results you want, then you can keep going until the desired results are achieved… and you can stop whenever you want.
Our goal is to give you what you came in for – as fast as possible.
Everyone reacts to care a little differently – so you may get out of pain really fast and not need any more care.
Most patients want what we call, “Relief Care.” They come in with some kind of ache or pain and we get them out of pain. It’s pretty simple.
And here’s something really important: we do not get upset or lecture you if you have not been in to see us in a while.
We completely understand that you have a life and you may not need care. In fact – WE THINK THAT IS GOOD!
…and yes, we also love it when patients drop back in – it’s a sign they love what we do.
And, I literally mean “drop in.” Patients love that we do not have appointments so they can come when they want and fit us into your busy schedule. Once again, we are here for you, not the other way around.
January 20, 2012 No Comments
Practice Update January 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope the new year finds you healthy and joyful.
Have you ever had neck or back pain and considered Chiropractic… but feared you’d be required to commit to long term Chiropractic Care?
You are not alone.
Even though there is plenty of research backing up Chiropractic, some patients just can’t afford the time or expense of long-term, corrective care Chiropractic.
That’s why we now offer “pay-per-visit” Chiropractic for your neck pain or back pain.
This means you can call and come in on the same day and get exactly what you want… an affordable drugless solution for your aches and pains.
Our mainstream approach has gotten us featured along with many medical doctors and spine surgeons on Spine-Health.com… one of the most visited online back pain information websites in the country.
So, if you, your spouse, or a friend is complaining of aches and pains, rest assured that you can come in and get the care you want and can afford.
Give us a call at 215-938-8500. We’ll take good care of you. Or just stop by, because…
We have a new walk-in policy for established and new patients.
Simply show up during our open hours and we will work you right in!
Our walk-in policy allows our patients to easily come in for treatment, even the same day symptoms arise. This is beneficial in reducing recovery times from an injury. Why wait days or even weeks for an appointment elsewhere?
Also, you may have noticed… We changed our name to “Huntingdon Valley Pain Relief Center”.
Our new name accurately describes our practice focus. We may have a new name, but you can expect to receive the same great service and top-notch chiropractic care!
Also, we’re excited to tell you that…We have completely remodeled our office!
Come in and experience the difference… more spacious, completely private treatment rooms, bright new lighting, fresh paint, and a refreshment/snack area for patients.
Lastly, I want to remind you that you are always welcome back no matter how long it’s been since we last saw you. We are here to help you in any way we can and will be happy to see you!
Hope everything is going well and we’ll see you soon!
Sincerely,
Dr. Ken Goldman, D.C.
P.S. If you are not in pain and would like to still get a check-up… or… you are in pain and would like a treatment or two… just give us a call (or simply drop in) and we promise we’ll get you in immediately. We always welcome walk-in visits, and are here for your convenience and promise prompt service!
January 13, 2012 No Comments
Practice Update December 2011
Hello! I hope this holiday season finds you healthy and content with your many blessings.
I just wanted to spend a moment to detail some of our new and exciting changes in our practice…
1) Our practice name has changed to “Huntingdon Valley Pain Relief Center”. This name more accurately describes our focus and will help eliminate any confusion among newer clients.
2) We are in the process of remodeling our whole office. Some of the changes include: new walls, fresh paint, a snack & beverage area for patients, new ceiling & lighting, and more. Stop in… have a snack and drink on us. You’ll see and feel the difference.
3) We have a new “Walk-In” policy. This means that if you are a new or established patient, you can simply come in during our open hours and you will be taken care of very quickly. If you still want to make appointments, that’s fine with us. Just remember that appointments are optional.
If you are in pain, give us a call or simply stop in. You know we’re here to help. And remember that you can stop in any time, whether you are in pain or not. I’d be happy to see you.
So I would like to extend warm wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year… from myself and my staff. We hope to see you soon.
December 13, 2011 No Comments
Dr. Goldman Receives New Certification
Dr. Goldman attended a continuing education seminar and became certified in instrument adjusting. He was instructed by three top chiropractic doctors in the country and deepened his skill and education in the utilization of the Impulse IQ adjusting instrument.
This is the next generation in adjusting instruments, which allows Dr. Goldman to provide patients with an outstanding adjustment experience. Dr. Goldman is one of the few doctors in the area using the Impulse IQ instrument and the only Certified Impulse IQ Chiropractor in Huntingdon Valley.
In the hands of a skilled certified doctor, the Impulse IQ instrument delivers multiple, safe and precise impulses every second in order to correct joint dysfunction and relieve pain.
COMPUTERIZED ADJUSTMENT
High-tech computerized adjustments with Impulse iQ® actually precisely measure how the spine is moving during the treatment so that just the right amount of care can be provided.
YEARS OF RESEARCH
Over five years of research have gone into the development of the Impulse iQ Adjusting Instrument® to create gentle and specific chiropractic adjustments that are safe and effective for patients of all ages. High-tech computerized adjustments with Impulse iQ® actually precisely measure how the spine is moving during the treatment so that just the right amount of care can be provided.
CONTROLLED FORCE
Impulse iQ® has three different force settings for different parts of the body and to treat patients of all ages. The controlled low force thrust of Impulse® make treatments comfortable.
EXTREME SPEED
Impulse iQ® is twice as fast as other adjusting instruments and 100x faster than manual chiropractic adjustments. The gentle thrust is faster than the body’s tendency to tighten up and resist the adjustment.
October 18, 2011 1 Comment
How to Avoid Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Are you suffering from hand pain? Perhaps you have shooting pain from your hand into your wrist and forearm.
Have you tried nearly everything to stop the pain? Have you tried pain killers, physical therapy, squeezing rubber balls, using wrist braces, ice, heat, and stretches without success?
Sometimes, doing those things can be all you need to get rid of the pain. But often times it isn’t enough, and eventually you will become so frustrated with your nagging pain, that you believe getting surgery is the only solution.
In most cases, your wrist pain is caused by a combination of joint dysfunction and abnormal muscle tension in your forearm. In many cases the joint problem has its origin in your neck. This is largely overlooked by many physicians, who are trained only to examine the specific area of pain.
In some cases you may have been misdiagnosed and don’t really have carpal tunnel syndrome at all. The problem may actually have its root in your cervical spine (your neck) and/or your forearm.
You can find out what is truly causing your wrist and hand pain today.
Call our office or just stop in for a consultation and examination with myself. No appointment needed. You are always welcome.
During our consultation and examination, I would examine your whole spinal area, and most likely be able to quickly diagnose your condition. Then I will determine if you are a good candidate for care at our office.
If you qualify for treatment at our center, I will recommend a combination of chiropractic adjustments (of the spine and wrist), laser therapy treatments, and other natural therapies to help get you out of pain and get you back to enjoying normal activites again.
Why suffer, when a natural, safe, and quick solution is right within your grasp?
September 18, 2011 No Comments
Do You Have This Common Cause of Neck Pain?
Are you suffering from neck, back, and/or shoulder pain? Does your pain begin as tension in the upper back and creep upwards until the pain shoots upwards causing a piercing headache? Does the pain settle over or behind your eye or at your temple?
If you answered “yes” to any of the wbove questions, you may have one of the most common causes of neck pain and headaches. I see this problem in my practice almost on a daily basis. And there is usually a quick fix for it too.
The culprit may be a myofascial trigger point (muscle knot) in one of your muscles between your neck and upper back/shoulder area.
The most common muscle trigger points I see in my practice pop up in these muscles: the trapezius, the elevator scapula, the rhomboid. If you have a “fired up” trigger point in one of these muscles, you will have pain, stiffness, and will not be happy.
The most common causes of these trigger points includes: muscle strain, repetitive poor posture, whiplash, stress overload, and/or spinal joint dysfunction.
Injuries(even small ones) from years ago, such as car accidents, falls, sprains/strains, can be the cause of your neck pain today.
But the solution can be simple, virtually painless, and fairly quick. You’ll need to take action.
What makes trigger points so tricky, is the fact that they send out pain to other areas of the body. This means that your trigger point in your shoulder area can create pain in your neck and head.
It’s my job to find out the cause of your pain, and develop a natural solution to get you out of pain and back to life as quick as possible.
Over years of practice, I have developed the skill to locate hidden trigger points in your neck and back. Through a consultation and exam I can also figure out possible causes and develop of plan to help you get out of pain and avoid a possible relapse.
If you are suffering with unrelenting neck or back pain, call our office today for a no-hassle, no-pressure, consultation & examination with me (Dr. Goldman). I look forward to meeting you, helping you become pain-free, and getting you back to life.
August 15, 2011 No Comments
Five Ways to Prevent Back Pain
Statistics have indicated that back pain will affect around 80% of all people at some time in their life. Back pain can range from the lower back area to the upper back and shoulder blade area. Back pains are especially bad when they impact every day functions such as walking, bending, sleeping, or sitting. Americans spend billions of dollars every year fighting their back pains. Is there any way to prevent it? Here are five simple ways to help prevent back pain.
- Eat Right. Excess weight puts more stress on your lower spine and contributes to injuries. Animal-based foods (all meats, poultry, fish, and dairy) contribute to a pro-inflammatory diet and also lead to the production of chemicals that fuel the pain process. Eating a healthy, whole food, and plant-based diet will reduce pain and inflammation, and can help reduce your back pain.
- Minimize Stress. Life is stressful! Everyone experiences stress of some degree or another. Excess stress causes muscles to tighten and interferes with the normal healing process. Prolonged stress leads to homone imbalances of the stress glands of the body – the adrenal glands. These glands secrete hormones that regulate many body functions including: sleep, digestion, weight gain, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, immune system, arthritis, allergies, heart function, fatigue… to name a few. These glands can be checked easily in our office and can usually be balanced/repaired through diet and supplements.
- Maintain Good Posture and Ergonomics. Maintaining good posture means keeping the body in a balanced and neutral position as much as possible. Avoid stressful and damaging prolonged postures where ever you are. Moat people use computer work stations both at home or at work. These can be a problem if the ergonomics aren’t set up correctly. Screens should be centralized and keyboards should be positioned where the height allows your arms to be bent at 90 degrees. Some lower back pillow is recommended if you are sitting for long periods. Frequent breaks to move and stretch can also help maintain body posture and balance.
- Perform Healthy Exercises Regularly. Regular cardiovascular exercise is important to help maintain good cardiovascular health, manage weight, and reduce stress. But nothing replaces targeted spine-specific exercises to focus on your core. Some of the bast exercises for your core also involve balance and muscle endurance. Some examples are:
- Quadruped – on hands and knees. While holding abdominals in tight (hollowing), alternate straightening opposing arm and leg and holding for 5 seconds. Repeat 20 times.
- Bridge – on back. Lift pelvis, torso, and shoulder blades off floor and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat.
- Plank – pushup position supported on the forearms rather than hands. While keeping abdominals in tight (hollowing), hold your body straight for 30 seconds. Repeat.
- One Leg Balance – standing. Keep abdominals in and balance on one foot (stork stand) for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.
- Get Adjusted By Your Chiropractor. Everyday activities, stress, and toxins take their toll on our bodies. Our joints and muscles tighten, become restricted, and become imbalanced. Adjustments help to retore normal joint motion and can rebalance your spine and body.
July 15, 2011 No Comments
Office Closed Monday July 4th 2011
Our office will be closed on Monday, July 4th 2011. We will reopen on Tuesday, July 5th at 9:00 am.
Have an amazing Independence Day!
July 1, 2011 No Comments
Case of the Month June 2011
The Patient
- 52 year old female with a history of lower back pain, mid back pain, sleep difficulties, and digestive troubles
- Patient is overweight by 30 pounds
- The patient had a traumatic spinal injury from a slip and fall 3 years ago, that was corrected by spinal surgery
The Patient’s Complaints
- Moderate to severe lower back pain, hip pain bilaterally, and pain down the back of the thighs
- The patient has difficulty walking normally and must use a cane due to her disturbed gait and balance
Snapshot of My Examination Findings
- Past surgical reports, X-ray evaluations, and MRIs were reviewed and revealed moderate to severe degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine and showed the site of the surgery at L5S1.
- Patient demonstrates a loss of balance while standing and walking
- Guarding (protective movement and positioning) of the lower back and lower extremity
- Multiple areas of spinal subluxations (jammed spinal bones that irritate the nervous system) with focal tenderness to the lumbar vertebrae when pressed
- Painful range of motion of the lumbar spine in flexion and extension (worse in extension)
- Painful muscular fibers and trigger point activity around the lumbosacral spine and the hip areas bilaterally
- Positive orthopedic test for sciatic nerve irritation
My Diagnosis
- Lumbar Spine and Disc Degeneration
- Pain and Instability of the Lumbosacral Spine
- Subluxations of the Spine and Hip area, dysfunction and pain
- Sciatica
My Recommendations
- A course of 12 visits of integrative care to include the following:
- Chirporactic adjustments of the spine, and hip areas
- Myofascial release to the lower back, hips, and lower extremity areas performed by massage therapist
- Progressive therapeutic exercises targeting the lower back and core, with a focus on restoring normal balance
- Ice the lower lumbar spine at home as needed for 15 minutes per hour
The Prognosis
- Fair
Discussion
Lower back pain can be caused by many different things. Causes range from simple joint dysfunction or sprain/strains, to joint degeneration or even internal organ disease. My exam was critical in determining that this patient’s pain had a biomechanical cause. It was the joints, muscles, and nerves that were involved.
Post-surgical cases can be the most difficult, due to internal weakness at and around the prior site of the surgery. In this case, the weakness centered in the patient’s lumbosacral spine and in her core. Following surgery she had rehabilitation, but the exercises she had learned were not continued. In time, she became de-conditioned, overweight, and developed a weak and unstable core. This resulted in chronic back pain that is marked by episodes of aggravations and recovery.
One of the best solutions for chronic lower back pain, is chiropractic care with core stabilization exercises. This combination can help keep the spine healthy and prevent repeated relapses.
Upon following our advice and treatment schedule, this patient has had an approximate 50% improvement in 4 weeks of care, with less pain, improved balance, and increased range of motion. She has had moments where she was able to walk without limping, but she still has a way to go.
Our Approach To Post-Surgical Chronic Lower Back Pain
If you were a new patient visiting our office, we always start with a thorough case history, consultation, and examination. I may recommend diagnostic studies (x-ray or MRI) if I need more information. At this point, if I determine that care is appropriate and you decide to begin care, I will design a treatment plan for you. If at any time I discover something beyond the scope of my practice, I won’t hesitate to contact your primary care provider to discuss a possible referral to another healthcare provider.
We follow a very effective treatment strategy based on the letters ASR. They stand for:
- A – Adjust (whole-body adjustment techniques)
- S – Support (spinal pelvic stabilizers and other joint supports)
- R – Rehabilitate (targeted exercise therapy/physical rehab)
Our Wellness Program Options
- Relief Care – We offer short-term plans for fast pain relief and recovery. When many people seek care in our office they have one goal… relief. So that’s where we start! During this initial stage of intensive care, we have the following obligations: 1) To uncover the underlying cause of the health problem. 2) To suggest a care plan to produce the fastest results possible. 3) To offer ways patients can participate in their recovery. 4) To explain the value of exercise, nutrition and other aspects of wellness.
- Rehabilitative Care – We offer comprehensive plans for optimal recovery following injury. Many of our clients want to continue corrective care into the next phase of care – the rehabilitative phase. Wisdom has taught us that long-lasting pain relief can be achieved only when complete healing occurs and your body returns to optimal function. This part of the healing process usually involves therapeutic exercises. We provide one-on-one coaching through this phase of care and focus on flexibility, strength, endurance, balance, and core-conditioning.
- Supportive/Wellness Care - We offer ongoing plans to help keep you active and feeling great. Many of our clients enjoy regular chiropractic “checkups” and/or massage because they have found that they feel better, have more energy, and enjoy life more.
- Weight Loss & Detox Programs – our 30-day “Quick-Start” program can help you lose weight fast, detoxify, regain your energy, and enjoy life again! Experience one-on-one counseling and personal attention from our holistic nutritionist, Stephanie Brabazon. We may also use laser auriculotherapy to help you lose weight. Laser therapy is non-invasive, requires no needles, and is painless. We see many overweight people that have tried diets but have failed because they have difficulty curbing their appetite and cravings. Our program helps to curb your appetite, depress hunger cravings, stimulate your metabolism to burn off extra calories, and correct internal body hormonal imbalances.
Our Passion
It’s our passion to help you feel great and be your best!
After meeting with Dr. Ken Goldman and discussing your heal goals, we will put together aspecific treatment plan just for you. We have many natural therapies to consider – chiropractic, massage, exercise, nutritional counseling, and laser therapy techniques. This strategy sets us apart from many other health practitioners, and gives our patients the best opportunity to achieve superior health.
We will do our best to find the cause of your problem and correct it. If at any time we discover something beyond the scope of our practice, we won’t hesitate to refer you to another healthcare professional.
We accept most health insurance plans and provide a variety of affordable payment options (even for those without health insurance coverage). We also accept car accident cases, work injuries, personal injuries, and sports injuries.
We don’t want you to have to resort to dangerous medicines, injections, or surgery. Our approach is to use chiropractic care and other natural therapies (such as massage, rehab exercises, or nutrition) to correct your back pain quickly and naturally.
June 21, 2011 1 Comment
New Government Food Guide Falls Short Again
Well the new government food guide is out. It can be found at ChooseMyPlate.gov. This is the latest change in dietary recommendations from the USDA. It is meant to replace the old “Food Pyramid” from 1993, which replaced the “4 Food Groups” from years earlier. The recommendations now are:
Balancing Calories ● Enjoy your food, but eat less. ● Avoid oversized portions. Foods to Increase ● Make half your plate fruits and vegetables. ● Make at least half your grains whole grains. ● Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk. Foods to Reduce ● Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals ― and choose the foods with lower numbers. ● Drink water instead of sugary drinks.
Some of the USDA’s recommendations are sound, and the web site has some good information if you poke around. One good piece of advice is to make half of your plate fruits and vegetables. However, there are some glaring weaknesses in their recommendations and also quite a bit of confusion. It seems that they came up with a very diplomatic program that wouldn’t offend anyone – especially the big food industries. The only industry they may have offended is the “sugary drink” people.
Here are some of the glaring problems I discovered:
- Dairy is included as a requirement at every meal. Dairy is a dietary non-factor. Although containing some nutrients, dairy products are very low in overall nutrition compared to many other food choices and are not just not essential. Many cultures (such as China) have gotten along fine without much dairy at all, and have very strong bones and teeth!
- They recommend only half of your grains be whole grains. I would like it to be 100%. Why did the USDA stop at 50%?
- They recommend a mystery food group called “Protein”. Most people quickly think of meats, poultry, and fish. It’s as if the USDA is saying that vegetables aren’t a good source of protein, when in fact they are the best source. Dark green leafy and solid vegetables contain more protein per calorie than lean beef! Look to the elephant or the horse – powerful bones and muscles, and completely vegetarian. They also don’t mention how much protein we need each day… perpetuating the “protein-myth”.
- They don’t clarify what lower sodium foods are. They just say to “compare… and choose the foods with lower numbers”.
- They completely ignore legumes, nuts, and seeds on the plate, but can be found if you dig into the site under “Protein Food Group”.
- They ignore plant-based sources of calcium – which are actually the best choices, and instead only cover dairy-based foods.
If you really want to enjoy amazing health, you have to make some big changes. Changes that make a big difference, and changes that are sustainable. Although perhaps a bit of an improvement over the last Food Pyramid, the recommendations of our government don’t go far enough to make much of a difference. There’s too much room for mediocrity. The government has let us down again. Surprised?
Here are two better solutions that you can use as a food guide instead of the “ChooseMyPlate” deal:
From the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine - www.PCRM.org
The “PowerPlate” is a simple guide that gets right to the point. Here’s another guide for the person looking for some more detail…
From Dr. Joel Fuhrman - www.drfuhrman.com
If you would like to talk to someone in our office for advice on weight loss or healthy eating, feel free to give us a call at 215-938-8500, and ask for Dr. Ken Goldman or Stephanie Brabazon, our holistic nutritionist.
June 15, 2011 2 Comments
Office Hours Change
We are now open on Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 – 12:30 by appointment, and have full day hours on Wednesday. Our weekly office hours now looks like this:
www.naturaltherapydr.com/contact-us/
Monday: |
9:00 am – 7:30 pm |
Tuesday: |
9:00 am – 7:30 pm |
Wednesday: |
9:00 am – 7:30 pm |
Thursday: |
9:00 am – 7:30 pm |
Friday: |
9:00 am – 12:30 pm (by appointment only) |
Saturday: |
9:00 am – 12:30 pm (by appointment only) |
Sunday: |
closed |
June 5, 2011 No Comments
Back From Refreshing Trip To Rickett’s Glen
Well, we’re back from our yearly trip to Rickett’s Glen. If you’re not familiar with Rickett’s Glen, it is a wonderful PA park in the endless mountain region, near Benton, which is around 45 minutes due west of Wilkes-Barre. The park is known for its old, pristine forest and incredible hiking trails. The most difficult trail is called the “Falls Trail”, and is home to 21 breath-taking waterfalls.
We had a great time despite three thunderstorms, four scraped knees, two concussions, hundreds of fly and mosquito bites, and one canoe tipping. We managed to fit in two hikes, six campfires, one game of capture the flag, two games of football on the beach, several trips to the lake, one trip to Knoebels Amusement park, two games of manhunt, one try at fishing, and one late night trip to the lake to star gaze.
We’ve made it sort of a tradition to meet three other families there, each with their own cabin. This was the first year that my whole family hiked the falls trail and made it to all 21 waterfalls. And I was very proud of all my kids (especially Joshua, age 6 and pictured above with his dad) who didn’t complain one bit during the 3.5 hour adventure. We planned it so that near the end of the hike (around 2.5 hours in), we made it to the Ganoga Falls, a 94′ tall and powerful waterfall. We were all starting to tire some, but after being blasted with cold air and mist at the bottom of the falls for a minute or two, we were totally refreshed. What a blessing!
Rickett’s Glen is a beautiful place, and filled with so much to see and do. Everyone had a great time. But it’s good to be back.
June 1, 2011 No Comments
Fennel and Heirloom Tomato Salad-Light and Fresh
Fennel and Heirloom Tomato Salad
- 2 stalks of Fennel (with bright green prawns)
- Heirloom tomatoes (washed, your choice of colors)
- Ground Fenugreek seeds
- 2 pinches of gray salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 Meyer lemons
- Extra virgin olive oil
Start by prepping the fennel and heirloom tomatoes by quartering the tomatoes and slicing the fennel very thin (try slicing on a mandolin if possible). Cut 2 of the meyer lemons into thin half moon shapes. In a small bowl emulsify the olive oil, the juice of the 3rd lemon with the salt, pepper and fenugreek seeds. Assemble the tomatoes and fennel on a white plate so the colors magnify for great presentation. Pour the dressing on top of the salad (lightly mix), then chop the fennel prawns and sprinkle all over salad and plate for an up-scale approach!
This salad is fantastic for those hot summer nights when you want something light and easy. Making this salad for your friends and family will not only satisfy the taste buds because of the intense flavor the meyer lemons have to offer but it will make your body very happy because of the high nutrient contents. The fenugreek seeds are known for treating any sinus issue also clear up lung congestion. The seeds are a great source of selenium and a natural source of iron. Who knew this simple salad with minimal ingredients can pack in so much satisfaction (nutrient wise) and be so tasty and figure friendly! Outdoor summer fun here I come!
May 17, 2011 1 Comment
Petition Against Criminalizing Taking Photos of Farms
I just signed Slow Food USA’s petition against legislation in three states that would criminalize taking photos or video of farms.
If you, too, believe that a well-managed farm should have nothing to hide, and that consumers have a right to see how their food is produced, please join me in signing their petition:
http://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/5986/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6675.
If we can raise a big enough stink, we can stop this outrageous effort from spreading to other states and send a clear message that consumers have a right to know where our food comes from.
Thanks!
May 13, 2011 No Comments
Forks Over Knives – Local Screening
“Forks Over Knives”, a new health awareness movie, has just come out. It looks like a good, in-your-face, challenging documentary… and it’s actually filmed in 3D!
Here’s the official trailer:
There’s a local Premiere Screening in Plymouth Meeting on Thursday, May 19th. For only $15, you get dinner and the movie. This is from the movie web site http://www.forksoverknives.com/:
Philadelphia Premiere (May 19)
Reception (6:00 PM)
Plant-Strong dinner and book signing with Rip Esselstyn, author of the Engine 2 Diet, on the rooftop cafe at Whole Foods Market Plymouth Meeting.
500 West Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462Screening & Panel Discussion (7:30 PM)
AMC Plymouth Meeting Mall , 494 W. Germantown Pike,Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Q&A details will be announced soon.Tickets
$10 movie, $10 dinner, $15 for both (Proceeds donated to a local nonprofit organization)
Buy Tickets Online
And another bonus, Rip Esselstyn – the author of the Engine 2 Diet, will be there! Rip is the son of Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr., M.D., the author of the groundbreaking book - Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease.
Here is a synopsis of the movie from their web site:
What has happened to us? Despite the most advanced medical technology in the world, we are sicker than ever by nearly every measure.
Two out of every three of us are overweight. Cases of diabetes are exploding, especially amongst our younger population. About half of us are taking at least one prescription drug. Major medical operations have become routine, helping to drive health care costs to astronomical levels. Heart disease, cancer and stroke are the country’s three leading causes of death, even though billions are spent each year to “battle” these very conditions. Millions suffer from a host of other degenerative diseases.
Could it be there’s a single solution to all of these problems? A solution so comprehensive but so utterly straightforward, that it’s mind-boggling that more of us haven’t taken it seriously?
FORKS OVER KNIVES examines the profound claim that most, if not all, of the so-called “diseases of affluence” that afflict us can be controlled, or even reversed, by rejecting our present menu of animal-based and processed foods. The major storyline in the film traces the personal journeys of a pair of pioneering yet under-appreciated researchers, Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn.
Dr. Campbell, a nutritional scientist at Cornell University, was concerned in the late 1960’s with producing “high quality” animal protein to bring to the poor and malnourished areas of the third world. While in the Philippines, he made a life-changing discovery: the country’s wealthier children, who were consuming relatively high amounts of animal-based foods, were much more likely to get liver cancer. Dr. Esselstyn, a top surgeon and head of the Breast Cancer Task Force at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic, found that many of the diseases he routinely treated were virtually unknown in parts of the world where animal-based foods were rarely consumed.
These discoveries inspired Campbell and Esselstyn, who didn’t know each other yet, to conduct several groundbreaking studies. One of them took place in China and is still among the most comprehensive health-related investigations ever undertaken. Their research led them to a startling conclusion: degenerative diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even several forms of cancer, could almost always be prevented—and in many cases reversed—by adopting a whole foods, plant-based diet. Despite the profound implications of their findings, their work has remained relatively unknown to the public.
The filmmakers travel with Drs. Campbell and Esselstyn on their separate but similar paths, from their childhood farms where they both produced “nature’s perfect food”; to China and Cleveland, where they explored ideas that challenged the established thinking and shook their own core beliefs.
The idea of food as medicine is put to the test. Throughout the film, cameras follow “reality patients” who have chronic conditions from heart disease to diabetes. Doctors teach these patients how to adopt a whole foods plant-based diet as the primary approach to treat their ailments—while the challenges and triumphs of their journeys are revealed.
FORKS OVER KNIVES utilizes state of the art 3-D graphics and rare archival footage. The film features leading experts on health, examines the question “why we don’t know”, and tackles the issue of diet and disease in a way that will have people talking for years.
FORKS OVER KNIVES was filmed all over the United States, and in Canada and China.
May 4, 2011 2 Comments
Pretty Polenta Cakes-Healthy Comfort
Pretty Polenta Cakes
- 1 package of ready made Polenta
- 1 package of pine nuts
- 2 large bell peppers (washed)
- 1 jar of organic marinara sauce, 24 oz.
- ground flax seeds
- 2 egg whites
- 5 garlic cloves (chopped)
- oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- fresh Basil
- fresh flat leaf parsley
- parmesan cheese (both grated and block), or vegan substitute
Start by heating up the marinara sauce, bay leaf and oregano at a low-medium temperature. Dice the peppers, then chop the garlic. Saute the garlic and peppers in a non-stick skillet until tender then add in the ground flax seeds. Slice the polenta cakes into 1/2 inch circles, then dredge into the egg whites then into the cheese. Cook the polenta cakes for 3-5 min per side on medium heat. In a separate dry skillet toast the pine nuts at a very low temperature (keeping an eye on these as they would burn very quickly!).
Add basil to marinara sauce at the very end of cooking to retain freshness. When the polenta cakes are finished layer them on top of each other on a plate, then pour sauce on top of cakes then the pepper and garlic mixture. For presentation chop the fresh parsley sprinkling that and the pine nuts on top of meal and all around the plate. Finally to end this eye catcher, shave some cheese (vegan) as a topping and simply enjoy!
This meal is great for one or many. These polenta cakes are both comforting and healthy. When you have had a long day its great to know this recipe can be assembled and on the dinner table in less than a half an hour! Now that’s my kind of fast food!
May 2, 2011 No Comments
Healthy Living Awareness Movies

While talking with various patients this week, I realized that many, good, health awareness movies have come out in just the last few years. Although I haven’t seen them all, it seems that each one has a unique perspective and a lot of good things to say… and to think about.
Here is a list of the movies I recommend:
- Eating
- Food Inc.
- Food Matters
- Super Size Me
- King Corn
- A Diet For All Reasons
- A Diet For A New America
- Simply Raw
- Fresh
- Forks Over Knives
I recommend viewing these movies with your friends and family, especially if you’re interested in learning more about how to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy in this “toxic” world. These movies reveal some of the modern forces that literally war against your health goals and threaten your very health and wellness. Some of the varied topics include:
- the obesity epidemic in the USA
- organic vs. conventional food
- genetic modification of food
- the use of chemicals in modern farming (pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.)
- natural vs. factory farming
- the causes of modern diseases (heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc.)
- the truth behind ranches, pig farms, chicken farms, and slaughter houses
If you have any thoughts, please leave a comment. And if you can, please list any other similar movies that you would recommend. Also, please let me know if you would be willing to watch a community screening (in our office) of the movie, Fresh.
April 30, 2011 No Comments
How Much Chiropractic Care Do You Need?

Many people think that once they begin chiropractic care, they’ll have to go forever. This is simply NOT true.
After a thorough interview and exam, we will work together to come up with a treatment plan that will work for you. You are always in charge of how much care you want and the frequency of your visits. Like many other healthy habits, you may want to receive regular chiropractic checkups, massage therapy, and other natural therapies because they can help you maintain superior health.
Following completing the initial set of forms, I will conduct an interview and introductory exam. The purpose of this visit is to determine if you would be a good candidate for care at our center. After the introductory exam, I’ll let you know if I think I can help you. At this time, specific diagnostic testing or outside referrals may be necessary for your appropriate care. If I don’t feel that I can help you, I’ll let you know and may refer you to another doctor.
If it looks promising, I’ll invite you back to receive a full examination to more accurately identify the cause of your problem.
The full examination is usually attended to on your second visit, which may be later the same day or the following day. This two-visit approach accomplishes several things:
- Reduces the length of your first visit
- Gives us time to correlate our findings
- Avoids overloading you with too much information
In certain situations, and based on my professional judgment, we sometimes make exceptions. It just depends on your unique situation.
Regardless of your health goals, please understand that we see ourselves as mere servants. You’re the boss! It’s your body, your health and your future. Our job is to offer you the finest wellness care possible, and it’s up to you to decide how much of it you want and how fast you want to proceed. Our wellness program options may help you understand this better…
Relief Care – When many people seek care in our office they have one goal: relief. So that’s where we start! During this initial stage of intensive care, we have several obligations:
- Uncover the underlying cause of the health problem
- Suggest a care plan to produce the fastest results possible
- Offer ways patients can participate in their recovery
- Suggest advanced strategies for long-term benefits
- Explain the value of post-symptomatic wellness care
Typical relief care programs range in length from 6 to 24 visits. The more severe and more chronic the condition, the longer it may take for you to progress through this phase of care.
Rehabilitative Care – Many of our clients want to continue relief care into the next phase of care – the corrective or rehabilitative phase. Wisdom has taught us that long-lasting pain relief can be achieved only when complete healing occurs and your body returns to optimal function. This part of the healing process usually involves therapeutic exercises. We provide one-on-one coaching through this phase of care and focus on flexibility, strength, endurance, balance, and core-conditioning.
Typical rehabilitative care programs range in length from 6 to 12 visits. The more severe and more chronic the condition, the longer it may take for you to progress through this phase of care.
Weight Loss & Weight Management – We provide one-on-one nutritional counseling, exercise program design, and utilize a special laser therapy technique, called auriculotherapy, to assist our clients lose weight in a way that is safe and very effective.
Laser auriculotherapy is non-invasive, requires no needles, and is painless. We see many overweight people that have tried diets but have failed because they have difficulty curbing their appetite and cravings. Laser therapy helps to curb your appetite and depress hunger cravings. Our laser technique also stimulates your metabolism to burn off extra calories and correct internal body hormonal imbalances.
Typical weight loss care programs range in length from 12 to 24 visits. If you are severely obese, it may take longer to progress through this phase of care.
Ongoing Maintenance/Supportive Care – Many of our clients want to continue beyond both the pain relief and rehab phases of care. Routine chiropractic checkups are enjoyed by millions (both young and old) who want to keep their spine, nervous system, and body as healthy as possible. Why is regular care needed? Because subluxations (misalignments of the spine and extremities) continue to occur in life. Life is stressful! You may need weekly checkups, or you may do fine with monthly visits. It just depends on your body and your lifestyle.
So how much chiropractic care do you need? It really depends on your unique situation and your personal health care goals.
April 27, 2011 No Comments
Meet Stephanie Brabazon – Our New Receptionist
When you visit us, please be sure to welcome Stephanie Brabazon, our new receptionist and chiropractic assistant. She started with us last Monday, and is doing a great job meeting everyone and becoming acclimated to her new position.
If you talk to Stephanie, you’ll soon discover that she has a strong passion for natural healing. She says that she has always been passionate about food for as long as she can remember. Her struggles with her own weight management, lead her down a path to discover better ways of weight management. And now, Stephanie is currently studying Holistic Nutrition at Global College of Natural Medicine. Upon graduating college with a certificate of holistic nutrition, Stephanie says that she aspires to apply herself in every way that will touch others with a healing approach when it comes to health and weight management.
You can read more about Stephanie on our web site: http://www.naturaltherapydr.com/meet-stephanie-brabazon/.
We are very excite about having Stephanie become part of the Spectrum Wellness team. Be sure to drop in and say hello. And don’t be shy to pick her brain about anything nutrition-related. I’m certain she would love to share a fresh and holistic perspective!
April 16, 2011 No Comments
Onion Bread, Dried – A Recipe For Superior Health
Onion Bread, Dried
Slice onions with slicing disc in processor. Hand mix with rest of ingredients, and put onto 2 trays. Set your oven for keep warm (usually 110-140 degrees). Keep the oven door cracked open with a wooden spoon (this allows air circulation). Dehydrate at low temperature for 8 hours. Flip, and do another 8 hours. Cut into 9 equal pieces (2 cuts horizontally, 2 cuts vertically). Usually makes 18 pieces total for the 2 trays.
- Add spinach to the mix.
- Use soaked raw buckwheat instead, adding tomatoes and other herbs to get a type of focaccia bread.
- Try pumpkin seeds instead of sunflower.
- Substitute ground nuts in lieu of 1/2 the seeds.
- Use 1 1/2 onion and 1/2 cup of “carmelized onions” (onions that have soaked overnight or longer in Braggs Liquid Aminos and some agave nectar). Use carmelized onion marinade instead of using Nama Shoyu.
- Try adding some other vegetables such as zucchini, green and red peppers, or garlic (thinly sliced).
Thanks to www.goneraw.com for inspiring this recipe.
March 30, 2011 No Comments
Dogs Can Promote a Healthier You
Dogs are known as man’s best friend. And for good reason. For thousands of years both man and dog’s lives have become entwined in many ways. Dogs seem to like to hang around us and we, humans, have found that dogs can be quite useful.
How can a dog promote a healthier you?
- Dogs have proven to be excellent companions, and lower stress level
- Dog owners tend to be more active, increasing their “leisure-time” physical activity
- Dogs are excellent motivators to get you moving, taking regular walks
- Dogs are cute and fun
- Dogs tend to make people more social
- Dogs coax you to play physical games like fetch, catch-me-if-you-can, and tug o’ war
We own one cool dog, named Sheba (pictured above with the pups), who was a rescue from the Philadelphia SPCA. She’s an American Staffordshire Terrier/American Bulldog mix, and a terrific family dog. She’s great with the kids and other people, loves to play, and she’s an excellent motivator for me to get up early and run with her. Yes, I tie her leash to my waist and we go out every day. We run 3-4 times per week, and walk the other times.
And now, my family is helping by fostering dogs without homes to get them ready for adoption. Our first two dogs were actually an adorable pair of puppies (pictured above). Emma is a Shepherd/Husky/Rottweiler mix, and Ryan is a Bluetick Coonhound/Pointer mix. Man, did they keep us busy for several days until they were adopted. To learn more about our local dog rescue, check out WetNoseRescue.org.
So if you want get more active, relieve stress, have fun, get outdoors more often, meet more people, and get healthier… get a dog!
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Some research studies about dogs and physical activity:
JPAH Volume 8, Issue 3, March
The Impact of Dog Walking on Leisure-Time Physical Activity: Results From a Population-Based Survey of Michigan Adults
Background: The extent to which dog walking promotes leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) remains unresolved. We describe the characteristics of people who walk their dog, and assess the impact on LTPA. Methods: Information on dog ownership, dog walking patterns, total walking activity and LTPA were assessed in the 2005 Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Survey. Multiple logistic regression was used to generate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) for the effect of dog walking on total walking and LTPA. Results: Of 5,902 respondents 41% owned a dog, and of these, 61% walked their dog for at least 10 minutes at a time. However, only 27% walked their dog at least 150 minutes per week. Dog walking was associated with a significant increase in walking activity and LTPA. Compared to non-dog owners, the odds of obtaining at least 150 minutes per week of total walking were 34% higher for dog walkers (AOR= 1.34, 95% CI = 1.13-1.59), and the odds of doing any LTPA were 69% higher (AOR= 1.69, 95% CI = 1.33-2.15). Conclusions: Dog walking was associated with more walking and LTPA, however a substantial proportion of dog owners do not walk their dog. The promotion of dog walking could help increase LTPA.
From Pubmed.gov
Walking the dog: is pet ownership associated with physical activity in California?
Yabroff KR, Troiano RP, Berrigan D.Applied Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.Abstract
BACKGROUND: Several studies have reported positive associations between pet ownership and a variety of health outcomes. In this study, we explored associations between pet ownership and physical activity in a large, ethnically diverse population-based sample in California. METHOD: Data from the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) were used to assess the associations between pet ownership (ie, dog, dog and cat, cat, and non-pet owners) and transportation and leisure walking in a sample of 41,514 adults. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between pet ownership and type of walking, and linear regression was used to assess associations between pet ownership and total minutes walking per week. RESULTS: Dog owners were slightly less likely to walk for transportation than were non-pet owners (OR = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.85 to 0.99) but more likely to walk for leisure than non-pet owners (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.5 to 1.8) in multivariate analyses. Overall, dog owners walked 18.9 (95% CI: 11.4 to 26.4) minutes more per week than non-pet owners. Walking behaviors of cat owners were similar to non-pet owners. CONCLUSION: Our findings support the moderate association between dog ownership and higher levels of physical activity.
March 25, 2011 No Comments
Dried Kale Chips – A Recipe For Superior Health
Dried Kale Chips
- 16 oz. kale (approximately one large head)
- 2 T of olive oil
- salt
- spices
This is a great alternative to snacking on potato chips or the like. Kale is one of the healthiest vegetables known, being loaded with vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, as well as being low in calories.
Preheat oven to KEEP WARM, around 140 degrees or less. Prepare the kale by washing it, removing the stems, and chopping it into bite sized pieces. Place in a large bowl and add oil. Toss with the oil to make sure it is spread evenly. Spread the kale thinly on baking sheets (usually 2 or 3 will do). Lightly salt and spice the kale as desired. We tried a Cajun mix which was delicious. Place the baking sheets with the kale into the oven and keep the door of the oven cracked open with a wooden spoon. Dry the kale at the low temperature for 3-4 hours.
The kale can come out fairly crispy, with some of the thicker leaves being a bit chewy. Have fun trying a variety of spices.
March 20, 2011 No Comments
Dr. Goldman Attends Seminar On Chiropractic Research March 2011
I just returned from a 12-hour seminar on chiropractic research. Wow! A day filled with tons of exciting information.
The instructor, a veteran chiropractor and lecturer, detailed many different research studies covering varying topics such as:
- Chiropractic and back pain
- Chiropractic and neck pain
- Chiropractic for visceral (internal organ) problems
- Kinesio taping
- Manipulation for carpal tunnel syndrome
- Adjustments for chronic, arthritic hip pain
- Chiropractic care reducing athletic injuries and improving athletic performance
- Topical pain remedies
- Chiropractic care and shoulder pain
- Myofascial release techniques for treating trigger points
- Chiropractic care helping women during pregnancy
- Adjustments helps golfers improve their distance off the tee by nearly 10%
Look for some of these studies detailed on my web site and in a 3-ring binder conveniently placed in our waiting room. If you enjoy proof and data, then this is for you! Maybe there’s a sceptic you’ve been trying to convince to pay us a visit, this may just do the trick. Ask me what topic you would like to know more about and I’ll do my best to forward you the research ASAP.
In the mean time, check out our web site’s ever-growing research page at NaturalTherapyDr.com
March 12, 2011 No Comments
Sugar Addiction
Sugar is so common in the American diet, And it’s become very obvious that people consume way too much of the stuff. The stats say that the average American consumes over 150 pounds of sugar per year. That’s nearly a half of a pound per day! And some come in the dangerous form of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS – contains mercury).
If you’re like most people, you probably enjoy a treat from time to time. But maybe you go too far. Maybe you over indulge too frequently. Maybe you have a hard time controlling your cravings for sugar. There’s a good reason for that.
Did you know that sugar is considered very addictive? And it may just be the number-one addiction in the USA.
Here is an abstract from the NIH:
The experimental question is whether or not sugar can be a substance of abuse and lead to a natural form of addiction. “Food addiction” seems plausible because brain pathways that evolved to respond to natural rewards are also activated by addictive drugs. Sugar is noteworthy as a substance that releases opioids and dopamine and thus might be expected to have addictive potential. This review summarizes evidence of sugar dependence in an animal model. Four components of addiction are analyzed. “Bingeing”, “withdrawal”, “craving” and cross-sensitization are each given operational definitions and demonstrated behaviorally with sugar bingeing as the reinforcer. These behaviors are then related to neurochemical changes in the brain that also occur with addictive drugs. Neural adaptations include changes in dopamine and opioid receptor binding, enkephalin mRNA expression and dopamine and acetylcholine release in the nucleus accumbens. The evidence supports the hypothesis that under certain circumstances rats can become sugar dependent. This may translate to some human conditions as suggested by the literature on eating disorders and obesity.
Why is Sugar so Addictive?
White sugar is what most people are consuming. It is highly processed and not found in that form in nature. When eaten, it quickly enters the bloodstream and affects the brain in a way similar to cocaine. It gives you a strong sense of pleasure, which is not normally found in nature. Very sweet and very fatty things are more rare in nature, and for a good reason. Although these things are very enjoyable, the bulk consumption of sweets or fatty foods has been proven to be very detrimental to health. They are designed to be rare treats. After your level of pleasure spikes, it then comes down fast. This leaves you feeling low. You then begin to crave sugar again to bring your level of pleasure up to the previous high.
How Sugar Can Affect Your Health
- Insulin Response – sugar causes a strong insulin response. The quick rise in blood sugar causes the body to rapidly release insulin. The short term result is a quick rise and fall of your blood sugar, resulting in a “sugar crash”. The long term results can be insulin resistance and diabetes.
- Leads to obesity.
- Increases Fat Storage – sugar causes a spike and excess of energy, which your body will try to store as fat. As your body’s ability to store this overload of energy becomes hindered, fat is deposited around your internal organs. This “organ fat” is linked with cardiovascular disease (the number one killer in the USA).
- Suppresses the immune system.
- Adversely affects dental health.
- Promotes inflammation in the body, which is linked with chronic pain, arthritis, heart disease, asthma, premature aging.
- Linked to mental health issues – depression, anxiety, and attention disorders.
Smart Action Steps to Limit Your Sugar Intake
- Identify and eliminate major sources of sugar in your diet. Beware that labels list sugar in a variety of ways – glucose, fructose, dextrose, corn syrup, sucrose, and cane sugar.
- Focus on the worst culprits: sodas, juices, sauces, and dressings.
- Replace sugary foods with healthy and wholesome options. Instead of soda or juices, drink water with lemon. Instead of cookies or cake, consider fresh fruit for desert.
- In recipes, replace sugar with date sugar or agave nectar.
March 6, 2011 No Comments
New Exercise Therapy – Whole Body Vibration (WBV)
Do you want to get the benefits of 45-60 minutes of exercise in just 10 minutes? Sounds impossible, but it’s true. And it’s backed by sound research. Our new whole body vibration (WBV) exerciser is named the Power Vibe and is made by a company called Zen Pro.
The concept dates back to the 1960′s and 70′s to the Russian space program. The Russian cosmonauts were sent into space for prolonged periods of time and when they returned they discovered some shocking things. The cosmonauts had significant muscle weakness (atrophy) and bone loss or demineralization (osteoporosis). The Russian space program began to use whole body vibration as a way to simulate weight bearing loads. The cosmonauts performed the rehabilitation exercises before, during, and after trips into space.
Afterward, German Universities continued their own research on the effects of WBV. Many studies were done on a variety of effects on the body, such as WBV and Osteoporosis, developing muscle mass, improving balance and circulation, rehabilitation for injuries, weight loss, and the like.
In the 1980′s, whole body vibration exercise has been used by Olympic athletes as a way to enhance training and rehab. And now, whole body vibration has become affordable and accessible for most people. It is effective, fast, and safe for people of all ages.
What is Whole Body Vibration Exercise Like?
You begin by standing on a rapidly vibrating plate. The body undergoes the stimulating changes of rapid acceleration/deceleration, similar to running or being on a trampoline. You can then move into different simple positions and hold them for some time while the plate continues to vibrate. Examples of some positions are the squat, the one-legged stork stand, or the plank.
Standing for just 5-10 minutes a day, while doing a few movements to transfer the vibration of the machine into various body regions, increases the flow of freshly oxygenated blood into the tissues, enhances lymphatic drainage, and generally loosens things up. You will feel great!
What are the Benefits of Whole Body Vibration Exercise?
On a WBV machine, the platform you stand on moves very rapidly. This controlled motion is transferred up through your body. What happens in your body is that all of your tissues are forced to react to the stimulus of the vibrating platform.
- WBV works and tones your muscles. Here WBV works very similar to the knee jerk reflex. When muscles are activated via a “stretch reflex” your body has no choice but to react. WBV technology exploits this fact by using an external stimulus – the vibrating platform. When you load a muscle or muscle group in line with the direction of the vibration by assuming various positions, the muscles respond to the vibration as compensation with a brief reflex contraction of virtually all muscle fibers of that particular muscle. Now remember, the platform moves anywhere from about 1000 to 3000 times a minute depending on the setting! You can imagine the type of stimulus this creates, thus causing your muscles to tone and strengthen faster than any other form of workout.
- WBV increases your blood flow. In order for a muscle to do any contraction, it needs to burn glucose and oxygen. Where does the muscle get these 2 essential components from? Your blood flow! As your muscle contractions increase, so does the need for oxygen and glucose for the muscle. Your body supplies it by increasing your heart rate to get the necessary nutrients to the muscle. Thus, WBV naturally increases your circulation.
- WBV increases your lymphatic drainage. When standing straight up on the WBV platform, you can feel your sinuses draining, and the stiffness and tightness from standing all day going away. These are typical signs of lymphatic drainage which also helps to fight infection and bacteria. It’s almost like WBV supercharges every cell in your body with energy! Spending just 5 minutes on a PowerVibe (especially the vertical vibration units) and swelling is down, you are feeling lighter, looser, and best of all more relaxed!
- WBV increases the release of Endorphins. Researchers in Germany have also shown that the stimulation of subcutaneous tissues and ligaments around the spine in particular release significant amounts of endorphins, the same “Feel Good” hormones that are showing up in the bloodstream after a lengthy run!
- WBV lowers your Stress Hormone Cortisol. Also of particular interest to me was the fact that exercising with WBV helps your body to reduce the levels of Cortisol. This hormone starts to show up when you’re stressed out and your system is running on overload. Cortisol is terrible for the body – it causes your body’s inflammation levels to go up, it robs you of sleep, wipes out your adrenal glands and after a while leaves you constantly exhausted. WBV on a PowerVibe unit helps to break down this damaging hormone and replace it with better hormones. We all know how well exercise works in combating stress.
- WBV trains your equilibrium sense. The human brain is built to keep our bodies in a state of equilibrium, balance, and stability in the 3-dimensional world. If someone pushes your shoulder, your brain responds by telling you to lean back against the push so you don’t fall over. If you’re standing on a platform that is moving 20 – 50 times per second, your brain must respond quickly by triggering certain muscles to contract and others to relax so that you maintain your balance. The brain is forced to respond to the rapidly moving surface under you or you would fall over! This is great exercise for the balance sense.
- WBV can combat osteoporosis. Weight bearing load is placed on the patient’s entire skeletal structure, which maximizes lymph drainage, promotes the release of osteoblasts, and fights osteoporosis.
The benefits of WBV training are considerable, as evidenced by its acceptance in major medical, rehabilitation and therapeutic centers across the country. The health benefits are multifold and results can be achieved easily. It can enhance your general well being and quality of life regardless of age, medical, neurological or physical condition. WBV training is not difficult, but it can be challenging – the degree of difficulty is entirely up to you.
Feel free to call me if you have any questions regarding whole body vibration and if you want to find out if this natural therapeutic exercise would be right for you. You can also check out some Power Vibe videos at: http://www.powervibeusa.com/community/video.
February 20, 2011 2 Comments




















