Archive for September, 2007
Flexion-distraction vs active exercise for chronic low back pain
Saturday, September 29th, 2007 “Flexion-distraction [FD] involves the use of a specialized table [see photo] that gently distracts or stretches the spine,” says Dr. Arn Strasser from the Center for Chiropractic & Pain Rehabilitation in Portland, Oregon.
OK, but how does it compare to an active trunk exercise (ATE) protocol (see photo below) as performed by physical therapists?
Good news on ephedra-free weight loss products
Thursday, September 27th, 2007 They don’t contain ephedra.
This might seem intuitive, but with supplements you can’t be sure until you test.
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Surprising results and conclusions from the GERAC acupuncture trials for low back pain
Wednesday, September 26th, 2007 Conflicting findings on the effectiveness of acupuncture are often attributed to flaws in study design and methods. The German Acupuncture Trials (GERAC) were intended to demonstrate that it’s possible to design acupuncture studies in accordance with the standards of good clinical practice.
Bad news for calcium supplements
Tuesday, September 25th, 2007Trigger point acupuncture for neck pain
Tuesday, September 25th, 2007A bewildering study of acupuncture treatment of dysmenorrhea
Sunday, September 23rd, 2007 Why do CAM journals publish useless studies?
Case in point. (more…)
Background noise helps ADHD children learn
Sunday, September 23rd, 2007A very concise review of herbal medicines
Saturday, September 22nd, 2007 Those who read this blog know that one of the main objectives it to provide CAM information as concisely as possible.
Well, I’ve been outdone. Lidie Lajoie gets the award. you can carry it in your pocket.
See what I mean at this pdf.
1/31/07 09:28 JR
Consumer alert: Axcil and Desirin
Friday, September 21st, 2007 A company called TWC Global LLC, Inc. has issued a nationwide recall of Axcil and Desirin, which are marketed as sexual enhancement supplements for men and women, respectfully. (more…)
Acute liver disease associated with taking aloe vera by mouth
Friday, September 21st, 2007 It has been reported in 3 people. (more…)
New study supports acupuncture to treat rhinitis
Wednesday, September 19th, 2007A yoga video demonstrates stress reduction poses
Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 MayoClinic.com has posted a video that introduces five basic yoga poses.
It’s about 5 minutes long and worth a look.
1/23/07 21:14 JR
Results from the Central Sydney Tai Chi Trial
Tuesday, September 18th, 2007 The objective was to determine the effectiveness of a 16-week community-based tai chi program in reducing falls and improving balance. (more…)
Update on gundamiti to treat HIV/AIDS
Tuesday, September 18th, 2007 Some people with HIV/AIDS, according to an article from Voice of America, say they have “stopped taking ARVs [anti-retroviral medicines] in favor of the cheaper traditional Gundamiti herb, which costs under Z$2 million (about $38 in US dollars) a month.” That’s about half the cost of the ARVs in Zimbabwe.
But does it work? (more…)
Recognizing boundaries between yoga and psychotherapy
Tuesday, September 18th, 2007 A reader adds perspective to the physical vs philosophical value of yoga, so be sure to read the comment.
Dan Charnas has a good article in Yoga Journal where he advises yoga instructors against crossing the line between a physical workout and psychological counseling.
It’s useful for students to consider and applies to other disciplines as well.
Excerpts here.
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Best foods (and supplements) to lower your cholesterol
Monday, September 17th, 2007Soft drinks reportedly not a cause of obesity in children
Monday, September 17th, 2007Allergic reactions associated with the use of pelargonium
Monday, September 17th, 2007 Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants, which includes about 200 species. Extracts have been used to treat respiratory tract and gastrointestinal infections.
Now, more about the allergic reactions to Pelargonium sidoides DC and P. reniforme Curtis, which reportedly have immune modulating properties and antibacterial activity. (more…)
Financial support for research training and career development in CAM
Sunday, September 16th, 2007 The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) offers research training and career development awards for those seeking a career in CAM research. (more…)