Vitamin D levels increasing your immune system against bacterial and viral infection
Vitamin D is naturally produced when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet light and occurs in very small amounts in a small amount of foods including fatty fish, eggs and meat.
Vitamin D naturally stimulates the immune system by producing an active hormone called Calcitrol. This is only produced when there are sufficiently high levels of active vitamin D within the body. This hormone increases the activity of Natural Killer Cells which destroys cell affected by viruses or tumours and also increases the activity macrophages (white blood cells). Calcitrol also increases the production of Cathelicidin by macrophages, which is a natural antibiotic that can kill bacteria and some viruses.
During times of decreased sunlight such as winter when colds and flus increase vitamin D levels can be addressed with the use of supplements in order to increase the efficiency of your immune system and keep you healthy.
Dr Patrick Ryder (MChiro)
Doctor of Chiropractic
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
8 years of your life seated…you better get it right!
8 years of your life seated…you better get it right!
The average office worker will sit for 6 hours a day and work 252 days a year.
If we do the maths that means we spend on average 63 days a year sat down, over a life time that adds up to nearly 8 years!!!
This only takes in to account hours at work, in reality we also spend a lot of time sat in the car and in front of the TV.
Hopefully now you can see why correct ergonomics at work is so important?
Your back just isn’t designed to sit for these long periods of time, so it is imperative that you have a good chair, exercise your back regularly and have regular Chiropractic check ups. If you do all these things then you are massively reducing your risk of getting back pain.
Here are a few handy tips to help you sit better. Please talk to Dr Bailey if you require any further information.
1. Your knees and hip joints need to be at 90°
2. Feet flat on the floor or on a foot rest
3. If using an arm wrest the elbows need to be bent to 90°, do not lean on the elbows, the wrests are only there for support.
4. Your back should be in contact with the back of the chair at all times, no leaning forward.
5. Your computer needs to be set up in front of you, not to the side. You should not be turning your head or body.
6. Take a brake every 30min, walk to get a glass of water, take a call walking or just stand up and walk around your desk.
7. Stretch regularly throughout the day. You Chiropractor will give you specific stretches to do.
If you enjoyed this blog then log on next monday where Dr Bailey will be talking about sleeping posture.
Dr Gemma Bailey Bsc (Hons) Chiro
Doctor of Chiropractic
The average office worker will sit for 6 hours a day and work 252 days a year.
If we do the maths that means we spend on average 63 days a year sat down, over a life time that adds up to nearly 8 years!!!
This only takes in to account hours at work, in reality we also spend a lot of time sat in the car and in front of the TV.
Hopefully now you can see why correct ergonomics at work is so important?
Your back just isn’t designed to sit for these long periods of time, so it is imperative that you have a good chair, exercise your back regularly and have regular Chiropractic check ups. If you do all these things then you are massively reducing your risk of getting back pain.
Here are a few handy tips to help you sit better. Please talk to Dr Bailey if you require any further information.
1. Your knees and hip joints need to be at 90°
2. Feet flat on the floor or on a foot rest
3. If using an arm wrest the elbows need to be bent to 90°, do not lean on the elbows, the wrests are only there for support.
4. Your back should be in contact with the back of the chair at all times, no leaning forward.
5. Your computer needs to be set up in front of you, not to the side. You should not be turning your head or body.
6. Take a brake every 30min, walk to get a glass of water, take a call walking or just stand up and walk around your desk.
7. Stretch regularly throughout the day. You Chiropractor will give you specific stretches to do.
If you enjoyed this blog then log on next monday where Dr Bailey will be talking about sleeping posture.
Dr Gemma Bailey Bsc (Hons) Chiro
Doctor of Chiropractic
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Cold & Winter increasing joint aches and pains?
Cold & Winter increasing joint aches and pains?
Is started getting cold again how are your joints feeling sore?
Doctors who specialize in the treatment of patients with arthritis) generally agree that many patients experience a worsening of joint symptoms with changes in the weather. Moreover, folklore holds that the weather can affect arthritis as emphasized by sayings like "feeling under the weather." We know, for example, that weather clearly influences many health conditions. Examples of this relationship include altitude and ears popping, pollens in the air and asthma or sinus infection, sun rays and skin burning or skin cancer, cold weather and heart attacks, and gloomy, dark weather and depression. We also know that heat packs or hot showers can relax the muscles around the joints and relieve stiffness and pain for some. Conversely, ice packs can ease the inflammation in the joints themselves.
First, there hasn't been much real research science. In 1961, a famous arthritis specialist, J. Hollander M.D., conducted a study in which he built a climate chamber and demonstrated that high humidity combined with low barometric pressure were associated with increased joint pain and stiffness. Neither weather factor by itself seemed to influence joint symptoms. The study has been criticized because of the limited number of patient’s evaluated (12 patients). The theory of the study is that inflamed joints swell as the barometric pressure drops. This swelling irritates the nerves around the joints that sense pain and causes more stiffness.
The answer is no. Relocating to a different climatic environment does not seem to make a difference in the long run. Scientific studies have shown that no matter where people live their bodies seem to establish a new equilibrium to the local climate. As a result, changes in the weather affect the arthritis symptoms in the same manner regardless of the actual overall average weather. Moving is not likely to be beneficial long term. (To emphasize a point, I can tell you that there are plenty of busy rheumatologists in Arizona!)
It appears that there is some evidence that the symptoms of certain persons with arthritis are influenced by CHANGES in the weather. This is not true for all people with arthritis, nor is it predictable what type of weather alterations will bother people. For example, in one room I may have a patient that complains that last week just before it rained, her joints began aching and now that it is warm, clear weather she feels better. Simultaneously, in the next room, a patient tells me that her joints are far worse today after it rained last week! What do I do with this information? Well, each patient must be evaluated (and evaluate themselves) uniquely. The bottom line is that while the exact cause(s) of the activation of arthritis symptoms may not yet be scientifically understood, each patient must make lifestyle and/or medication adjustments according to the particular weather conditions that they note influence their symptoms.
Dr Patrick Ryder (MChiro)
Doctor of Chiropractic
Is started getting cold again how are your joints feeling sore?
Doctors who specialize in the treatment of patients with arthritis) generally agree that many patients experience a worsening of joint symptoms with changes in the weather. Moreover, folklore holds that the weather can affect arthritis as emphasized by sayings like "feeling under the weather." We know, for example, that weather clearly influences many health conditions. Examples of this relationship include altitude and ears popping, pollens in the air and asthma or sinus infection, sun rays and skin burning or skin cancer, cold weather and heart attacks, and gloomy, dark weather and depression. We also know that heat packs or hot showers can relax the muscles around the joints and relieve stiffness and pain for some. Conversely, ice packs can ease the inflammation in the joints themselves.
First, there hasn't been much real research science. In 1961, a famous arthritis specialist, J. Hollander M.D., conducted a study in which he built a climate chamber and demonstrated that high humidity combined with low barometric pressure were associated with increased joint pain and stiffness. Neither weather factor by itself seemed to influence joint symptoms. The study has been criticized because of the limited number of patient’s evaluated (12 patients). The theory of the study is that inflamed joints swell as the barometric pressure drops. This swelling irritates the nerves around the joints that sense pain and causes more stiffness.
The answer is no. Relocating to a different climatic environment does not seem to make a difference in the long run. Scientific studies have shown that no matter where people live their bodies seem to establish a new equilibrium to the local climate. As a result, changes in the weather affect the arthritis symptoms in the same manner regardless of the actual overall average weather. Moving is not likely to be beneficial long term. (To emphasize a point, I can tell you that there are plenty of busy rheumatologists in Arizona!)
It appears that there is some evidence that the symptoms of certain persons with arthritis are influenced by CHANGES in the weather. This is not true for all people with arthritis, nor is it predictable what type of weather alterations will bother people. For example, in one room I may have a patient that complains that last week just before it rained, her joints began aching and now that it is warm, clear weather she feels better. Simultaneously, in the next room, a patient tells me that her joints are far worse today after it rained last week! What do I do with this information? Well, each patient must be evaluated (and evaluate themselves) uniquely. The bottom line is that while the exact cause(s) of the activation of arthritis symptoms may not yet be scientifically understood, each patient must make lifestyle and/or medication adjustments according to the particular weather conditions that they note influence their symptoms.
Dr Patrick Ryder (MChiro)
Doctor of Chiropractic
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Straighten Up Ireland 2011
Straighten Up Ireland 2011
It always amazes me that people do not get their spines checked at least once a year.
The spine is such an important part of the body. It is vital for movement, in fact most people only realise this once they have hurt it and they can’t use it!!
The spine also protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord and spinal nerves relay messages from the brain to every cell in the body, a healthy spine means a healthy nervous system.
I can guarantee that you take better care of your teeth then you do your spine? We brush our teeth twice a day, visit the dentist for check ups once a year and spend a fortune on dental treatment. Don’t get me wrong, this is very important to do and I only use it as an example of what people should be doing in relation to their spines. After all if your teeth fall out you can get dentures, what do you do if your spine wears out?
Having regular Chiropractic care has been proven to give you a healthier, stronger spine. We place stress through our spines each and every day. Chiropractic care is designed to resolve these issues BEFORE symptoms start.
So if you have never had your spine checked, book in with Dr Bailey today for a FREE check up. If you are an existing patient and it has been a few months since your last treatment, book in today! Remember prevention is better the cure!
Dr Gemma Bailey
Bsc (Hons) Chiro
Doctor of Chiropractic
It always amazes me that people do not get their spines checked at least once a year.
The spine is such an important part of the body. It is vital for movement, in fact most people only realise this once they have hurt it and they can’t use it!!
The spine also protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord and spinal nerves relay messages from the brain to every cell in the body, a healthy spine means a healthy nervous system.
I can guarantee that you take better care of your teeth then you do your spine? We brush our teeth twice a day, visit the dentist for check ups once a year and spend a fortune on dental treatment. Don’t get me wrong, this is very important to do and I only use it as an example of what people should be doing in relation to their spines. After all if your teeth fall out you can get dentures, what do you do if your spine wears out?
Having regular Chiropractic care has been proven to give you a healthier, stronger spine. We place stress through our spines each and every day. Chiropractic care is designed to resolve these issues BEFORE symptoms start.
So if you have never had your spine checked, book in with Dr Bailey today for a FREE check up. If you are an existing patient and it has been a few months since your last treatment, book in today! Remember prevention is better the cure!
Dr Gemma Bailey
Bsc (Hons) Chiro
Doctor of Chiropractic
Monday, October 17, 2011
Does running make you fat? - Diet & Fitness, Health - Independent.ie
Kevin O'Toole, the Fitzwilliam Health Clinic's resident Physical and Sports Massage therapist thinks this is an interesting article, but contradictory in life, exercise, work and rest, its all a matter of balance. You do what you can when you can with what you have, so mix it up. Anaerobic, Aerobic when you can get the time and watch the calories and last but not least enjoy!!
Does running make you fat? - Diet & Fitness, Health - Independent.ie
Does running make you fat? - Diet & Fitness, Health - Independent.ie
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Breast Cancer & Acupuncture
Breast Cancer & Acupuncture
Persistent fatigue a common symptom for breast cancer survivors.
The American Association for Cancer Research have presented results at third AACR conference which identifies persistent fatigue as a common symptom in women who have successfully completed breast cancer treatment programs. These men and women may also experience pain, sleep disturbance, depression, anxiety, weight gain and treatment induced menopausal symptoms.
These findings would compare with my own clinical experience in treating breast cancer survivors, the transition from active treatment to cancer survivorship can be difficult. In my opinion Acupuncture can make a significant difference to patients suffering from any of these symptoms as it treats the individuals core energy levels .
As a result of controlled clinical trials, acupuncture is acknowledged by the WHO to be an effective treatment for adverse reactions to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, depression, neck and shoulder pain, nausea. It also acknowledges a therapeutic effect in the treatment of insomnia, obesity / weight gain although without any controlled clinical trial data
Refs: Source: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Article Date: 02 Oct 2010 - 1:00 PDT www.medicalnewstoday.com
Acupuncture Review and Analysis of reports on controlled clinical trials
www.who.int/topics.com
Amanda Hughes – Acupuncturist
Persistent fatigue a common symptom for breast cancer survivors.
The American Association for Cancer Research have presented results at third AACR conference which identifies persistent fatigue as a common symptom in women who have successfully completed breast cancer treatment programs. These men and women may also experience pain, sleep disturbance, depression, anxiety, weight gain and treatment induced menopausal symptoms.
These findings would compare with my own clinical experience in treating breast cancer survivors, the transition from active treatment to cancer survivorship can be difficult. In my opinion Acupuncture can make a significant difference to patients suffering from any of these symptoms as it treats the individuals core energy levels .
As a result of controlled clinical trials, acupuncture is acknowledged by the WHO to be an effective treatment for adverse reactions to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, depression, neck and shoulder pain, nausea. It also acknowledges a therapeutic effect in the treatment of insomnia, obesity / weight gain although without any controlled clinical trial data
Refs: Source: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Article Date: 02 Oct 2010 - 1:00 PDT www.medicalnewstoday.com
Acupuncture Review and Analysis of reports on controlled clinical trials
www.who.int/topics.com
Amanda Hughes – Acupuncturist
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Breast Awareness Month
Breast Awareness Month 2011
Every year in Ireland nearly 2,500 women are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Over the course of a lifetime, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer
In 2007, there were 2,463 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in Ireland making it the most common invasive cancer in Irish women.
Advances in diagnosis and in treatment have seen an increase in survival from breast cancer for Irish women in recent years. In spite of this, breast cancer remains the biggest cause of death from cancer in women in Ireland.
Some of the known risk factors for breast cancer include:
• Older age
• Menstruating at an early age
• Older age at first birth or never having given birth
• A personal history of breast cancer or benign (noncancer) breast disease
• Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast/chest
• Breast tissue that is dense on a mammogram
• Taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone
• Drinking alcoholic beverages
• A mother or sister with breast cancer
Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any new breast changes to a family doctor as soon as they are found.
These are the changes to look for and if you are in any doubt, visit your doctor:
• A lump or thickening which is different to the rest of the breast tissue
• Continuous pain in one part of the breast or armpit
• One breast becomes larger or lower
• A nipple becomes inverted or changes shape or position
• Skin changes including puckering or dimpling
• Swelling under the armpit or around the collarbone
• A rash on or around the nipple
• Discharge from one or both nipples
http://www.breastcancerireland.com/iopen24/the-facts-t-41.html
You should check your breasts once a month. Try and do this at the same time each month so you are aware of what is normal for you. If you notice any changes in the appearance of your breasts see your GP ASAP. Please see the link below to help you out.
http://vimeo.com/breakthroughbc/breastcheck
If you are aged 50-64 please partake in “Breast Check”. This is Government-funded programme providing free mammograms on an area-by-area basis every two years. Freephone 1800 45 45 55
Dr Gemma Bailey Bsc Hons Chiro
Every year in Ireland nearly 2,500 women are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Over the course of a lifetime, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer
In 2007, there were 2,463 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in Ireland making it the most common invasive cancer in Irish women.
Advances in diagnosis and in treatment have seen an increase in survival from breast cancer for Irish women in recent years. In spite of this, breast cancer remains the biggest cause of death from cancer in women in Ireland.
Some of the known risk factors for breast cancer include:
• Older age
• Menstruating at an early age
• Older age at first birth or never having given birth
• A personal history of breast cancer or benign (noncancer) breast disease
• Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast/chest
• Breast tissue that is dense on a mammogram
• Taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone
• Drinking alcoholic beverages
• A mother or sister with breast cancer
Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any new breast changes to a family doctor as soon as they are found.
These are the changes to look for and if you are in any doubt, visit your doctor:
• A lump or thickening which is different to the rest of the breast tissue
• Continuous pain in one part of the breast or armpit
• One breast becomes larger or lower
• A nipple becomes inverted or changes shape or position
• Skin changes including puckering or dimpling
• Swelling under the armpit or around the collarbone
• A rash on or around the nipple
• Discharge from one or both nipples
http://www.breastcancerireland.com/iopen24/the-facts-t-41.html
You should check your breasts once a month. Try and do this at the same time each month so you are aware of what is normal for you. If you notice any changes in the appearance of your breasts see your GP ASAP. Please see the link below to help you out.
http://vimeo.com/breakthroughbc/breastcheck
If you are aged 50-64 please partake in “Breast Check”. This is Government-funded programme providing free mammograms on an area-by-area basis every two years. Freephone 1800 45 45 55
Dr Gemma Bailey Bsc Hons Chiro
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Spinal Manipulation
Spinal Manipulation evidence
The first day of the WFC’s 2011 Congress saw the legendary chiropractor and neurologist, Scott Haldeman, speak of the physiological mechanisms and effects of spinal manipulation. Dr Haldeman, a professor of neurology at the University of California and head of the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010, first qualified as a chiropractor in 1964 and has led the field in researching chiropractic and its effects since this time.
He said that there is now a large body of clinical research which demonstrates spinal manipulation to be effective in the management of back and neck pain and headaches.During his lecture, Dr Haldeman ran through a range of effects for which evidence now exists:
1. Relaxation of muscles and relief of muscular pain.
There have been a number of different research approaches to this question, but it’s been demonstrated that cortical evoked potentials are abnormal on the side of spinal pain when compared to the normal side and it’s been noted that these return to normal folowing spinal manipulation.
2. Changes in Pain Sensitivity
At least one study has shown that skin pain sensitivity to electrica
l stimulation was diminished after spinal manipulation. A more recent RCT showed a change in thermal pain sensitivity.
3. Impact on Dorsal Horn neurons in the spinal cord.
Mechanical movement of the spine has been shown to stimulate Group I and Group II neurons and that the responses in these neurons can be sensitised by maintained changes in muscle length. Group III and IV Neurons can also be stimulated by vertebral movement. This has been hypothesized as a possible mechanism that may impact on the pain-spasm-pain cycle in paraspinal muscles.
4. Impact on Tissue Inflammatory Responses
Recent studies have raised the possibility that spinal manipualtion may have an impact on the inflammatory response of certain tissues.
5. Impact on Somato-Autonomic Responses
Research has repeatedly demonstrated that stimulation of somatic structures including peripheral somatic nerves, skin and muscles and can result in responses in autonomic nerves and can result in measureable changes in the function of a number of internal organs. It’s unknown whether or not these responses have any clinical significance.
Reference:
WFC 11th Biennial Conference Proceedings pp46-49
Dr Patrick Ryder (MChiro)
The first day of the WFC’s 2011 Congress saw the legendary chiropractor and neurologist, Scott Haldeman, speak of the physiological mechanisms and effects of spinal manipulation. Dr Haldeman, a professor of neurology at the University of California and head of the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010, first qualified as a chiropractor in 1964 and has led the field in researching chiropractic and its effects since this time.
He said that there is now a large body of clinical research which demonstrates spinal manipulation to be effective in the management of back and neck pain and headaches.During his lecture, Dr Haldeman ran through a range of effects for which evidence now exists:
1. Relaxation of muscles and relief of muscular pain.
There have been a number of different research approaches to this question, but it’s been demonstrated that cortical evoked potentials are abnormal on the side of spinal pain when compared to the normal side and it’s been noted that these return to normal folowing spinal manipulation.
2. Changes in Pain Sensitivity
At least one study has shown that skin pain sensitivity to electrica
l stimulation was diminished after spinal manipulation. A more recent RCT showed a change in thermal pain sensitivity.
3. Impact on Dorsal Horn neurons in the spinal cord.
Mechanical movement of the spine has been shown to stimulate Group I and Group II neurons and that the responses in these neurons can be sensitised by maintained changes in muscle length. Group III and IV Neurons can also be stimulated by vertebral movement. This has been hypothesized as a possible mechanism that may impact on the pain-spasm-pain cycle in paraspinal muscles.
4. Impact on Tissue Inflammatory Responses
Recent studies have raised the possibility that spinal manipualtion may have an impact on the inflammatory response of certain tissues.
5. Impact on Somato-Autonomic Responses
Research has repeatedly demonstrated that stimulation of somatic structures including peripheral somatic nerves, skin and muscles and can result in responses in autonomic nerves and can result in measureable changes in the function of a number of internal organs. It’s unknown whether or not these responses have any clinical significance.
Reference:
WFC 11th Biennial Conference Proceedings pp46-49
Dr Patrick Ryder (MChiro)
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Acupuncture gets green light - Latest News, Health - Independent.ie
Acupuncture gets green light - Latest News, Health - Independent.ie
This is a very positive step for the recognition of Acupuncture as an alternative to pain relief.
This is a very positive step for the recognition of Acupuncture as an alternative to pain relief.
Straighten Up Ireland - 10th - 14th October 2011
STRAIGHTEN UP IRELAND:
SUI is a posture care programme that sets out to improve the nation’s posture, thus aiming to help prevent back pain & subsequently improve your overall health & well being by promoting balance, strength and flexibility within the spine.
The Chiropractic Association of Ireland is delighted to incorporate this fantastic programme and to be utilising it here in Ireland.
The message at the heart of this campaign is the importance of having good posture and its’ related health benefits, as well as educating the public on the potential short and long term implications of poor posture.
Approximately 80% of the population of Ireland will experience at least one episode of back pain in their life time. That means that a large number of people are suffering with back pain right now. Poor posture is one of the common causes of back pain. As a result, millions of Euro’s are wasted in Ireland every year due to a decreased ability to work efficiently and often subsequent absenteeism.
The CAI wants to encourage everyone who is old enough & able to start using this simple, three minute, daily exercise routine that is designed to improve posture and increase spinal strength & flexibility. This routine is most effective when it is incorporated daily.
Straighten up Ireland will be running from the 10-16th October 2011. During this week we are offering FREE Spinal Assessment at our clinic. This will give you an opportunity to talk to one of our CAI chiropractors to discuss any health issues concerning you back. You will also be given a free SUI exercises leaflet to help get you started!
Call the Clinic today to book your appointment. This opportunity is open to everyone, so please tell your friends and family all about it. Children are welcome to attend too.
SUI is a posture care programme that sets out to improve the nation’s posture, thus aiming to help prevent back pain & subsequently improve your overall health & well being by promoting balance, strength and flexibility within the spine.
The Chiropractic Association of Ireland is delighted to incorporate this fantastic programme and to be utilising it here in Ireland.
The message at the heart of this campaign is the importance of having good posture and its’ related health benefits, as well as educating the public on the potential short and long term implications of poor posture.
Approximately 80% of the population of Ireland will experience at least one episode of back pain in their life time. That means that a large number of people are suffering with back pain right now. Poor posture is one of the common causes of back pain. As a result, millions of Euro’s are wasted in Ireland every year due to a decreased ability to work efficiently and often subsequent absenteeism.
The CAI wants to encourage everyone who is old enough & able to start using this simple, three minute, daily exercise routine that is designed to improve posture and increase spinal strength & flexibility. This routine is most effective when it is incorporated daily.
Straighten up Ireland will be running from the 10-16th October 2011. During this week we are offering FREE Spinal Assessment at our clinic. This will give you an opportunity to talk to one of our CAI chiropractors to discuss any health issues concerning you back. You will also be given a free SUI exercises leaflet to help get you started!
Call the Clinic today to book your appointment. This opportunity is open to everyone, so please tell your friends and family all about it. Children are welcome to attend too.
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