Category — News

Here’s a quick reminder as we approach year’s end… this may be the perfect time to use your Health Spending Account (HSA). Generally, money left in your HSA will NOT carry over to the next year. It would be wise to make any health-related purchases before the end of 2008.

You may be able to use your HSA for various services and products such as:

• Chiropractic and Massage Therapy
• Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers (orthotics)
• Cervical Support Pillows
• Nutritional Products
• Wraps and Supports
• Home Rehabilitation Equipment
• Home Spinal Traction Devices

Typically HSAs can be used for any healthcare products or services for a calendar year. The patient determines how much money goes into his or her account at the beginning of the year, and that amount must be spent or it will be lost.

According to the U.S. Department if Treasury, less than 500,000 Americans were enrolled in an HSA plan in 2004. Now more than 3.2 million Americans use them. Some experts predict this number to grow to 14 million by the year 2010.

Last weekend I had the privilege of training with one of the top chiropractors in the country, Dr. Mark Charrette. I had to fly out of the Philly airport on Friday, and everything was going as planned until I boarded the plane.

Our flight out of Philadelphia was delayed by an hour as there was a security “issue” on the runway. While our plane was waiting for around 30 minutes, I glanced out the window and saw a police officer unload a police dog and jog toward the terminal. Soon after, two police officers entered our plane and slowly walked down the aisle as they scanned each face and compared it to a picture they carried. They left the plane without incident.

I wasn’t happy for the delay, but was thankful for the top-notch security in place. Our flight was given the okay and we took off. From that point onward, the flight was uneventful and we landed safely at the Dallas-Fort Worth airport.

It was strange traveling alone, without Laura and our four children. But the next day I was soon surrounded by so many skilled doctors and kept so busy, that the time passed rather quickly.

The focus of our training was on whole-body adjusting - a holistic approach to patient care. Some of the time was spent reviewing anatomy, biomechanics, and neurology. But most of the time was spent practicing the whole-body adjusting techniques.

We reviewed the protocols for:

• the foot and ankle
• the knee
• the hip
• the jaw
• the hand and wrist
• the elbow
• the shoulder
• the ribs

As you may know, I’ve been doing whole-body adjusting for several years now. Even so, I was able to “fine tune” my techniques and really become more confident in the whole-body holistic approach to patient care. As many of you have experienced at Spectrum Wellness, we take an integrative approach to care. You may have experienced massage therapy, nutritional counseling, exercise rehab, and other natural therapies in your care plan.

Because of my additional training we are now better able to handle many different body conditions not typically handled in a natural way. We can help various conditions including:

• neck pain and headaches
• shoulder and rotator cuff injuries
• chronic back pain and instability
• chronic knee pain
• plantar fasciitis
• TMJ dysfunction and pain
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• tennis elbow
• leg length inequality and pelvic dysfunction
• postural abnormalities

If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call any time. I set aside time each week for phone interviews, and would be happy to speak with you to discuss your condition and go over some of your options.

I had some free time on Sunday and had lunch in the hotel lounge, and was able to sample a variety of “Tex Mex” food. I was greeted by many friendly people, including several Dallas Cowboy fans wearing ten-gallon hats.

I was very thankful that the return flight went perfectly.  I was even blessed when our plane flew by Citizens Park at around 9:55 PM, and I got a bird’s-eye glimpse of game 3 of the World Series.  The Phillies ended up beating the Rays 5-4 that night.

I arrived home tired, both mentally and physically.  Overall, I had an enjoyable and very productive time. I can’t wait to see you in our center soon!

New this September, our massage therapy team is proud to be offering several new services for the ultimate in relaxation…

We are now offering 4 exciting massage “upgrades” that can be added on to your next massage. You are now able to “customize” your massage and make it even more enjoyable with the following options:

• Hot Stone Massage - our therapist will use special heated stones to make your massage even better. The stones are placed and rested in certain areas and are also used as effective massage tools.
• Paraffin Wax Treatments - therapeutic application of hot paraffin wax is a soothing treat for the hands or feet.
• Facial Massage - a relaxing and refreshing facial massage using special facial cream for healthy and vibrant skin.
• Peppermint Foot Massage - enjoy a fresh and relaxing foot massage that works on all the acupressure points on the feet.

Our team is also very excited to be offering infant massage classes for parents. Hands-on classes are scheduled for 30 minutes are are designed to teach parents the basic principles of infant massage.

• Infant Massage Classes - classes teaching a preventative natural therapy that can improve the quality of life for both you and your baby. Infant massage is an excellent way to promote well-being and is the perfect alternative to medicine and drugs by aiding your baby’s immune system.

If interested in one of our new services, simply ask during your next visit or when you call to schedule. If you need more information, please feel free to call and ask for me or ask to speak to one of our massage team members. We’re always available to help!

For more information on massage therapy, hot stone massage, or infant massage click here

I just finished a 12-hour seminar focusing on whole-body adjusting. It was held in the heart of Philadelphia, just 2 blocks from city hall. The seminar was taught by a veteran chiropractor, Dr. Mark Charrette. He always has excellent and practical information to share, and delivers it with lots of energy and a “spicy” sense of humor. I have been a student of Dr. Mark Charrette since attending one of his seminars nearly a decade ago.

Over the weekend, we covered treatment strategies and extremity adjusting protocols for the whole body. During the lectures, I learned some amazingly simple, yet powerful strategies for patient care. I even had several opportunities during the hands-on sessions to practice and fine-tune my techniques.

Dr. Charrette detailed the ASR strategy for patient care. This stands for ADJUST - SUPPORT - REHAB. Over the years, I’ve learned that by following this simple strategy for patient care, I can help my patients achieve superior health faster and with fewer setbacks. The following example may help to illustrate this…

Sally, a 45-year old woman, comes in to see me with lower back pain and hip-area pain. I would start with a detailed case history and exam. I gather a great deal of helpful information here and can then determine if care is appropriate and safe, and what course we should take. I typically start with ADJUSTments of the spine and then the extremities. In Sally’s case we would focus on her lower extremity - the feet, ankles, knees, and hips. We may do other therapies such as ice, electrical stimulation or massage therapy. To SUPPORT Sally’s body, I may wrap the area (foot, ankle or knee) and determine the need for arch supports (orthotics). I would then design a program (for office and home) of targeted REHAB exercises for Sally, that would help provide long-lasting relief and improved body function.

I hope that example gives you a better idea of how I “give life” to the ASR strategy in my practice. By hitting all three components and focusing on whole-body balance, I provide the best care possible. You can see that if one of the components is neglected, you have a reduced likelihood of a good outcome.

As you may know, I have been doing whole-body adjustments (foot, ankle, knee, hip, wrist, elbow, shoulder and jaw) for many years now. Many chiropractors don’t address whole body balance. Perhaps due to lack of training, or different philosophies, or not wanting to spend the time with each patient. But when I first started focusing on whole body balance, I began to get great results. Now the research keeps coming in and continues to validate this “style” of chiropractic wellness care.  I’m hooked!

I can’t wait to share some of the incredible things I learned at the seminar. If you have any questions about my whole-body adjusting technique, feel free to call me or email any time.

We are now offering a new line of all-in-one supplements for our clients. They are powerful vitamin, mineral and super food supplements formulated by a company called Drucker Labs. The premier supplement is called intraMAX and is made for adults. Because intraMAX is so comprehensive it can replace many of your existing supplements.

But remember, I recommend supplements only in addition to an already healthy diet. That’s why they’re called supplements! Adding a great supplement to a poor diet won’t do you much good. As always, for superior health I recommend a whole food plant-based diet.

Here’s a brief overview of IntraMAX from Drucker Labs:

• 100% Natural
• Over 415 Nutrients
• 100% Carbon-Bond Organic
• Ultra Hypoallergenic
• Great-Tasting
• ALL-IN-ONE

IntraMAX is a 100% carbon-bond liquid microcomplexed trace mineral supplement, plus an all-in-one multivitamin and much more. It contains 70+ trace minerals along with other health promoting “super foods” which totals more than 415 essential carbon-bond organic microcomplexed nutrients in each bottle.

• 70+, 100% organic microcomplexed™ trace minerals (full spectrum)
• proprietary organic “carbon-bond” intraCELL™ V Technology
• 124 antioxidants (”free radical” scavengers / anti-aging)
• 40 amino acids (”building blocks” of protein)
• carbon (living), 100% organic (144,500 mg/l)
• 7 essential fatty acids (EFA)-omega 3, 6 & 9
• oxygen - 427 mg/l (dissolved & stabilized)
• 14 digestive enzymes (pure plant derived)
• 43 super green foods & phytonutrients
• 54 herbs (adaptogenic & supportive)
• 38 essential oils (organically bound)
• 64 vitamins and nutrients (essential)
• 19 macro minerals (100% organic)
• 23 vegetables (antioxidant rich)
• 65 electrolytes (100% organic)
• aloe vera (organically bound)
• 8 protein mineral nutrients
• 30 fruits (antioxidant rich)
• silver (organically bound)
• 13 probiotics (non-dairy)
• noni (organically bound)
• 11 carotenoids (mixed)
• 25 fibers (all natural)
• ultra hypoallergenic
• 11 optimum seeds
• 110 bioflavonoids
• fulvic acid (9.2%)
• 100% drug free
• NO additives
• 100% natural
• 100% vegetarian
• intraMAX® does NOT contain: preservatives, colloids, fat, cholesterol, wheat, gluten, caffeine, corn, yeast, rice flour, peanuts, nuts, soy, dairy, fish or fish oil, animal products, artificial additives, artificial colors, artificial flavors, fillers, pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics (drugs), chemicals, starch, binders, coatings, excipients, or flow agents

We offer another product by Drucker Labs called intraKID. It is the finest and most comprehensive nutritional supplement available for children. This formula utilizes a proprietary intraCELL V technology by Drucker Labs and a perfectly balanced set of nutrients for the needs of our younger patients

Because intraMAX is a comprehensive supplement and takes the place of many other products, you may be able to eliminate several other nutritional supplements you’re currently taking. In addition to the normal 34 FL oz. bottles, we offer tiny 2 FL oz. bottles for sampling or for travel.

If you want to learn more or desire to purchase these supplements you can do any of the following:

1. Stop by or call our office at 215-938-8500
2. Call Drucker Labs directly TOLL FREE at 1888-881-2344 (use this number: HCP5108)
3. Go to the Drucker Labs website - http://store.druckerlabs.com (use this number: HCP5108)

Many of our clients have begun using intraMAX and are very pleased.  Some of the positive changes that our clients noticed has been in energy levels, skin condition, monthly cycles, digestion and more.

Give it a try. You won’t be disappointed!

You can learn more at the Drucker Labs web site by clicking here.

If you’re new to massage at our center, just give us a call. We invite you to receive a free half-hour massage… on us! Really. No strings attached. Just relax and let one of our amazing therapist melt away your stress and tension.

I try to avail myself to at least one massage every week. Why? Because I know this life can “beat us up” quite a bit. Each day can be stressful. And this stress builds up. Imagine how much stress builds up in your body over the course of a week… let alone a month! So I really look forward to my weekly massages. I view each massage as a micro-vacation. Massage is an integral part of my own wellness lifestyle.

To receive a free massage at our office, you don’t have to be an existing client. If you’ve never had a massage at our center, just let us know. We just want you to give you the opportunity to experience the health benefits of massage. We know you’re going to love it.

Massage benefits your health by:

• relieving pain
• minimizing stress
• reducing muscle tension
• eliminating muscular trigger points
• easing headaches
• improving joint range of motion
• speeding up workout recovery time
• complimenting chiropractic adjustments
• improving your well-being
• balancing posture
• increasing circulation

After your free massage, we’ll explain our Spectrum Wellness programs. No pressure. If you decide to make massage a part of your wellness lifestyle like I do, simply pick a program that’s right for you.

If you want to secure your favorite time and minimize your waiting, it’s best to call ahead and make an appointment. Our therapists do prefer that you call ahead to schedule a massage, but they can accommodate same-day appointments and walk-in visits as well

When you’re ready to feel great, call us and schedule your free half-hour massage. You can begin experiencing the natural health benefits of massage today!

Click here to get to know our massage therapists.

A lot of patients ask me what foods they should avoid to be healthy. They ask me which are the really bad ones? They want me to tell them they’re doing fine because they avoid red meat and eat only poultry and fish. But there’s an inherent problem with this way of thinking.

If you’ve heard the news lately, there’s been reports listing America’s worst foods. Of course everyone wants to know the #1 worst food. It happens to be a side dish that may have well been served by the Grim Reaper himself…

Outback Steakhouse Aussie Cheese Fries with Ranch Dressing

2,900 calories
182 g fat
240 g carbs

This weapon of mass construction is the caloric equivalent of eating 14 Krispy Kreme doughnuts, before your dinner arrives. Even if you split this “starter” with 3 friends, you’ll have downed a meal’s worth of calories.

(If interested: do a search on Google for “America’s worst foods“.)

Oh how we love to point the finger at people doing things worse than us. Don’t we? We love to compare. It makes us feel good. We think somehow that people indulging in Aussie Fries justifies my eating fried chicken, because the chicken isn’t rated as bad as the fries. The problem is, you can always find something worse.

Take the Aussie Fries for instance. I could make them even less healthy by coating them with an extra layer of lard just for kicks. That would probably make them the equivalent of 16-17 Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Does that make the original version of the Aussie Fries okay now?

Isn’t it better to just focus on the good stuff? You can spend a little time reading and quickly learn what foods truly promote superior health. Then clean house.

Cleaning House Action Step for Promoting Superior Health

• Learn what “junk” food is and get all of it out of your house.
• Stock your refrigerator with a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits. Go for different colors and flavors.
• Keep your freezer filled with frozen fruits, vegetables, ground flax seed, whole grain pita bread and whole grain wraps. These are handy to have for quick meal preparation.
• Keep your cabinets filled with a variety of beans, nuts, seeds and dried fruits. You can make different varieties of “snacks” with different combinations of nuts, seeds and dried fruits. Be creative and experiment.
• Keep a supply of fresh and clean water for drinking.
• Supplement with a natural, safe and powerful product like Intra-Max.

From time to time our family has to repeat this action step because we accumulate “junk foods” in our house. It’s best to simply get it out of your home.

So it’s not a good strategy to just avoid eating the “bad” foods because this doesn’t ensure that you’ll be eating the best foods for promoting superior health. But if you follow the simple plan I’ve outlined above, you’ll be far more successful in your health journey.

When we doctors submit claims to insurance companies for expectation of payment, we usually receive payment in around 6 weeks. The payment comes with an explanation of benefits (EOB). The EOB lists the doctors’ charges and details what was paid and what wasn’t paid, and gives explanations of denials.

This week we received an EOB from Keystone Health Plan East (an Independence Blue Cross HMO plan), which was denying payment on one date of service in question. They said that the patient actually owed two (yes two!) co-payments for the date of service in question. They said that their contract clearly stipulates that the patient has a $25.00 co-pay per condition.

Keystone said that since I had performed treatment on two separate conditions (two different areas), the patient was required to pay her $25.00 co-pay twice! This means that if I worked on the patient’s spinal areas (i.e. neck) as well as an extremity (i.e. the shoulder), the patient would be penalized. In effect, if you were being treated for a cough that led to back pain and a headache, Keystone would expect you to pay three co-pays!  I still can’t believe it.

Who would ever think that your insurance company would essentially break your body down into separate pieces, and then view each part as an individual person in regard to co-pays! This incident is unusual, however insurance companies seem to be masters of playing these types of games.

If something like this happens to you, I suggest immediately writing a letter of complaint to your insurance company and contacting your state insurance commission. In PA, the consumer advocate organization is The Pennsylvania Insurance Department at http://www.ins.state.pa.us/ins.

You can fight back.

It’s amazing that the concern over the safety of chiropractic still comes up time and time again. All you really have to do is look at chiropractic’s amazing track record and the extremely low cost of malpractice insurance for chiropractic doctor’s to know it’s safe.

I’ve been in practice since 1992 and continue to provide natural, safe and effective care to my clients.

Chiropractic, massage and other natural therapies are extremely safe. Chiropractic has been around since 1895 and is still the leading alternative to traditional medicine. At least on this side of the earth!

But just in case you fear getting a stroke when you get adjusted by your chiropractor please read on…

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Among the comprehensive findings is the groundbreaking study on vertebral artery dissection and stroke risk.

After six years and an exhaustive review of published neck pain research, including almost 32,000 research citations and more than 1,000 relevant studies, the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain has released its findings, which address prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of neck pain, in a special supplement of the journal Spine.

The task force also conducted several original studies, including “Risk of Vertebrobasilar Stroke and Chiropractic Care: Results of a Population-Based Case-Control and Case-Crossover Study.” According to the task force, their findings suggest the risk of suffering a stroke following a cervical manipulation is attributable to a vertebral artery dissection (VAD) that is already in progress prior to the adjustment. The dissection likely results in neck pain that brings the patient to the chiropractor’s office seeking relief.

The authors also documented only a handful of stroke cases following chiropractic cervical manipulation in a massive study population spanning nearly 100 million person-years. Even more impressive, the data suggest that while spinal manipulation may increase the risk of an embolism in those with a VAD in progress, which can then lead to a stroke, the association between the stroke and the office visit was no higher in patients who sought the care of a chiropractor than in patients who sought the care of a general physician.

quoted from an article by Kathryn Feather, Associate Editor of Dynamic Chiropractic; emphasis mine.

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Did you catch that? Chiropractic care is proven to be extremely safe. It has always been safe. Even those “scary” neck adjustments are safe… when done by a highly skilled professional.

To put risk in perspective, think about this: around 100,000 people die each year from drugs and medical mistakes. That’s 274 people every day… or 11 people every hour! And some believe this number is very conservative as it only counts the actual reported mistakes.

So there’s really no doubt to the safety of your chiropractor’s adjustments. Unless you smell alcohol on his/her breath… then my advice would be - run for the door. Then call me.

Welcome to our exciting new health and wellness blog! We’re looking forward to discussing how you can feel great and be your best through natural therapies such as chiropractic, massage, exercise, and superior nutrition. We’re planning on creating a fun and useful site for sharing nuggets of wellness wisdom from our “world”. We hope you’ll find our new site friendly, insightful, and life-changing!