Researchers from McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada compared the heart benefits of brief, high-intensity forms of exercise compared to traditional, long-duration and moderately intense exercise.
Interferential current vs biofeedback for stress incontinence
Both methods are effective in patients with urinary stress incontinence, according to this study by researchers at Gaziosmanpasa University in Tokat, Turkey. Continue reading Interferential current vs biofeedback for stress incontinence
Relaxation training for anxiety
It’s an increasingly common treatment for anxiety problems.
Researchers from San Giuseppe Hospital in Erbania, Italy have reviewed the evidence. Continue reading Relaxation training for anxiety
Coke before gastric endoscopy
We’re talking about patients who undergo bariatric surgery, gastrectomy for cancer, and other procedures that remove most of the stomach. Patients sometimes have food residues and bile reflux that complicate or prevent doing the complete procedure.
What to do? Continue reading Coke before gastric endoscopy
Soy foods and weight loss
Data suggest that soy foods are as good as other protein sources for promoting weight loss, according to researchers at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.
But is there more? Continue reading Soy foods and weight loss
Time to Talk
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has launched an educational campaign to encourage the discussion of CAM use.
The program is aimed at patients, healthcare professionals, and professional and community organizations. Continue reading Time to Talk
Balance training after stroke
Standing balance deficits are common after stroke. One way to address these deficits is to provide feedback from a force platform while balance activities are performed. Continue reading Balance training after stroke
Acupuncture in head and neck cancer
This is the second study in a week to report a positive effect in patients with head and neck cancer complicated by xerostomia (abnormal dryness of the mouth resulting from decreased secretion of saliva). Continue reading Acupuncture in head and neck cancer
Aquatic vs land-based exercise for knee osteoarthritis
Aquatic exercise has less adverse effects, but what about effectiveness? Continue reading Aquatic vs land-based exercise for knee osteoarthritis
ConsumerLab tests probiotic products
Your can see the products that passed for free. Others will require a subscription. Continue reading ConsumerLab tests probiotic products
Cranberry for urinary tract infections
Medscape takes a negative view for prevention and treatment of infection. Continue reading Cranberry for urinary tract infections
Extensive review of fibromyalgia
Dr. Daniel Clauw from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor has published a continuing education review on Medscape, with recommendations for CAM. Continue reading Extensive review of fibromyalgia
Acupuncture in head and neck cancer
During the annual meeting of the American Society for Clinical Oncology, Dr. David Pfister from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City reported that following surgery, acupuncture reduced pain, dysfunction, and dry mouth in head and neck cancer patients. Continue reading Acupuncture in head and neck cancer
Brain shrinks with long-term marijuana use
According to this study by Dr. Murat Yücel at the University of Melbourne in Australia, heavy, long-term marijuana use was associated with significant changes in hippocampus and amygdala volumes by -6% to -12%. Continue reading Brain shrinks with long-term marijuana use
Physiotherapist-led pain management classes
In this study from King’s College London in the UK, it appears to be a “cost-effective alternative to usual outpatient physiotherapy.” Continue reading Physiotherapist-led pain management classes
STARS (Steps Against Recurrent Stroke)
The National Stroke Association along with Bristol-Meyers Squibb Sanofi Pharmaceuticals sponsors the STARS program, which is designed to inform stoke patients how to reduce their risk for recurrent stroke.
There are 5 things to do. How many of them include at least some component of CAM? Continue reading STARS (Steps Against Recurrent Stroke)
Acupuncture for repetitive use arm pain
This study failed to find evidence of its effectiveness, according to researchers at Cambridge Health Alliance in the UK. Continue reading Acupuncture for repetitive use arm pain
Chiropractic and the Pentagon
The American Chiropractic Association reported “The US House of Representatives has approved a directive that orders the Pentagon to make chiropractic care a standard benefit for all active-duty military personnel.” Continue reading Chiropractic and the Pentagon
Probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic: What’s the difference?
Confusing? It won’t be after this.
The term, “probiotic” (meaning “for life”) was coined in the 1960’s, although the concept was introduced early in the 20th century. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that normally live in the intestines. They are found in foods such as yogurt, and in dietary supplements. Examples are Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. The beneficial effects of probiotics are achieved by changing the microflora (numbers and types of bacteria) within the intestines.
Continue reading Probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic: What’s the difference?
Treating insomnia with meditation plus CBT
Researchers from Stanford University Medical Center in California combined mindfulness meditation with cognitive-behavior therapy for insomnia. Continue reading Treating insomnia with meditation plus CBT