Improving balance in fibromyalgia using whole-body vibration

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a treatment where a patient stands on a platform that oscillates at a particular frequency and amplitude, causing muscle contractions through stimulation of sensory receptors.

These devices are available over the Internet and generally viewed as a fad.

Researchers at the University of Extremadura, in Caceres, Spain, studied the effects of WBV on dynamic balance (balance while moving) in women with fibromyalgia. Continue reading Improving balance in fibromyalgia using whole-body vibration →

Tai chi for depression in elderly patients taking Lexapro

Nearly two-thirds of elderly patients treated for depression fail to achieve symptomatic remission and functional recovery with first-line pharmacotherapy.

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, studied whether a mind-body exercise, tai chi, added to escitalopram (Lexapro) might augment the treatment of geriatric depression. Continue reading Tai chi for depression in elderly patients taking Lexapro →

The risk of thrombocytopenia with CAM

When the number of platelets in the blood is low — thrombocytopenia — it’s more difficult for blood to clot. Early signs of thrombocytopenia include bruising, and bleeding from the nose or into the gastrointestinal tract.

Researchers from the College of Medicine University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, in Oklahoma City reviewed interactions between platelets and CAM, herbals, nutritional supplements, foods, and beverages. Continue reading The risk of thrombocytopenia with CAM →