Chronic Pain Archives - Page 4 of 8 - Plattsville Natural Health Clinic

Naturopathic Approaches to Pain

July 19, 2016 by elisha

Pain of any type can be very debilitating. Not only does it affect someone’s physical functioning, but it affects one’s relationships, home – life, and overall well-being. With my training in Naturopathic Medicine, I have seen my fair share of patients struggle with pain and the abundant obstacles faced as a result of this struggle. There is hope. This blog will aspire to enlighten you to the different ways that Naturopathic Medicine can help with pain, and what the research says. I should caution you that pain is a very broad topic, and so with this article, I will focus more on arthritis, though this is not the be all and end all when it comes to pain.

What is Arthritis?

The word “arthritis”, when taken from its Greek context, clearly sums up what arthritis entails: “arthro” means “joint”, and “it is” means “inflammation”. Therefore, arthritis indicates really any condition where there is inflammation in the joint. There are various different classifications of arthritis, including, but not limited to Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Gout, Septic Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Lupus. Many other conditions may involve arthritis or arthritic changes, but these are the primary stand – alone classifications of arthritis. Based on these different types of arthritis, there may be different causes of origins. For example, osteoarthritis may be caused by excessive use of the joint, where as rheumatoid arthritis can be caused by autoimmune destruction of the joint. As a result, the approach that would be taken for each of these different forms of arthritis would be different based on their mechanism of destruction. That being said, some of the approaches listed below may be effective for some forms of pain and not others. This speaks to the importance of consulting with your Naturopathic Doctor for an individualized treatment plan that specifically fits your symptom picture.

Based on the research, the following treatment options may be helpful for pain and arthritis:

Traditional Asian Medicine and Acupuncture
Botanical Medicine
Nutrition, Diet and Lifestyle
Hydrotherapy
Homeopathy
Physical Medicine

Ultimately, the goal of treatment will be to treat the root cause of the pain. As mentioned above, based on the specific type of arthritis you may be suffering with, the root cause may be different for you versus another. As a result, the following list offers examples as to what goals might be developed for a treatment plan for an individual:

Correct for deficiencies
Reduce pain and manage it effectively
Improve mood (often individuals experience depression because of their chronic pain)
Decrease inflammation
Address and eliminate any triggers to inflammation that may be present in the diet
Improve immune functioning
Alter lifestyle and diet to decrease pain

How can Traditional Asian Medicine help?

Traditional Asian Medicine views the body differently than western medicine. Its theory suggests that when there is an imbalance in the body system, disease manifests. Each “organ” is associated with an emotion, and individualized functions in the body. For example, the liver and spleen control the functioning of the muscles, joints, and ligaments. In addition, one of the primary functions of the spleen is to Transform and Transport water. This could lead to an excess amount of fluid in various areas of the body including the joints. These organs may play a role in arthritis but this is truly dependent on your individualized presentation. Once a specific diagnosis is made, a treatment plan is created, and may involve using acupuncture, herbal formulas, diet, or lifestyle, all with the purpose of bringing the body back into a state of balance.

Specifically regarding acupuncture, acupuncture has been shown in some studies to be beneficial Rheumatoid Arthritis when combined with electroacupuncture. One particular study found that knee pain was relieved within 24 hours of treatment; and the acupuncture was found to have benefits that last up to 4 months in some. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003788.pub2/abstract;jsessionid=67DB60F605B9F7B238341B5CCA2C903A.f02t03?deniedAccessCustomisedMessage=&userIsAuthenticated=false

Another study found that acupuncture was beneficial for osteoarthritis of the knee; specifically for pain an physical functioning.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2810544/

Finally, in a study specific for patients suffering from gouty arthritis, individuals experienced decreased pain and decreased uric acid levels when treated with acupuncture for 1 month.

http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-ZGZE200203002.htm

How can Botanical Medicine help?

Botanical formulas have similar effects to medications, often without the side effects, however this is not true for all herbs and plants. Specific herbs or plants will be selected based on their properties and combined based on the specific individual’s presentation and symptoms associated with their pain. For example, one person may benefit from decreased inflammation, where as another may need help with immune functioning. Some beneficial properties that some useful herbs may have include: anti – inflammatory, rubefacient, immunomodulating, and adaptogenic.

Much research has revolved around the anti-inflammatory effects of various herbs including some lesser thought of herbs such as stinging nettle and black cohosh (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22700248). A commonly discussed herb when pain is mentioned is turmeric. Turmeric has been shown to decrease inflammation, prevent inflammation, and decrease swelling (http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/supplements-herbs/guide/turmeric.php).

How can Nutrition and Diet help?

Many different foods can contribute to inflammation in the body as a whole. The Standard American Diet (SAD) often promotes inflammation in itself, and so, can contribute to increased pain in individuals with arthritis. If an individual is eating relatively healthy, inflammation can still present itself. For some individuals, night shade vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, zucchini and eggplant can contribute to increased inflammation.

Similar to how many foods can promote inflammation, there are many foods that can decrease inflammation. These foods can include those higher in omega 3 fatty acids such as flax seed, hemp seed, and fatty fish such as salmon.

One study has shown how diet and supplementation can both by themselves or in combination help improve outcomes for those suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0049017205000879). A naturopathic doctor can help you to develop a diet that best suits your individual needs, including developing strategies to motivate you to eat a proper diet. In addition, they can correct for any nutritional deficiencies that may be aggravating your stress and overall health.

How can Hydrotherapy help?

Hydrotherapy involves alternating hot and cold water applications to achieve the following goals: promote detoxification and relaxation, increase circulation, improve immune system functioning, promote digestion, and decrease pain. Based on all of the following actions, hydrotherapy could be beneficial for pain based on the different root causes. Hydrotherapy can be performed via a number of methods: constitutional hydrotherapy, sauna, peat bath, Epsom salt baths, or alternating hot and cold showers. In one study looking into hydrotherapy and rheumatoid arthritis, the participants experienced decreased joint tenderness and improved range of motion of the knees with warm water immersion (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/1529-0131(199606)9:3%3C206::AID-ANR1790090309%3E3.0.CO;2-J/abstract).

How can Homeopathy help?

Homeopathy is an energy medicine that involves finite doses of a substance that are diluted in water, which amount to a higher therapeutic dose overall. In this form of medicine, individualized remedies are chosen based on the individual’s specific symptoms and presentation. Each person requires a different remedy based on their unique presentation. Homeopathy does not interact with any medications, making it quite useful especially if you are taking other medications.

Homeopathy is challenging to study in research, but research does exist. In one particular study, the process of conducting a homeopathic interview is where some individuals saw relief from pain for their rheumatoid arthritis (http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2010/11/08/rheumatology.keq234.short). Other studies have shown that homeopathy can be beneficial for osteoarthritis pain and various other symptoms (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1475491699904496).

How can Physical Medicine help?

Physical medicine involves a number of different potential therapies. These therapies might include ultrasound, laser therapy, electroacupuncture, cupping or Gua Sha. The general effect of these therapies includes relaxation, increased circulation, decreased pain, improved wound healing, and decreased inflammation.

For example, some research has shown that cupping in combination with conventional therapy can help to modulate the immune system for the better in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (http://europepmc.org/abstract/med/17977209).

How can Lifestyle changes help?

Various lifestyle factors can play a role in pain. By improving sleep, exercise, scheduling, and coping mechanisms, it is possible that some individuals may have reduced pain. Naturopathic doctors are trained to help individuals through lifestyle counselling, and can use methods use as motivational interviewing or cognitive behavioral therapy to do so.

Research has demonstrated that poor sleep can be quite common in individuals experiencing pain (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022399904000327). As a result, this can further increase their pain through being unable to rest and relax.

Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, contact Dr. Elisha Cook ND by calling 519-537-7058 and book your appointment today!

6 Reasons Why Fish Oil is Beneficial for Health

May 24, 2016 by elisha

Fish Oil supplements are one of the main supplements you will find on the market today. Many people take them simply because “I know it is good for me”, but do not fully understand the benefits to their health. This article is meant to bring to light some of the research on the supplement, and some ins and outs that are important to know for choosing the right supplement. Of course, when in doubt, please consult a naturopathic doctor to determine what supplement would best help you with your specific health needs.

Ratios

If you are a patient of mine, you already know that I think ratios are important when it comes to fish oil. In short, children need more DHA as their brains are developing, and adults need more EPA to sustain it. As a result, the ratio of EPA to DHA needs to be 2:1 or higher depending on your particular health concerns. For example, if EPA is 200mg is a capsule, I would like to see DHA at 100mg or less. Some individuals may want to try to obtain omega 3s through vegan sources such as flax and hemp, but these sources tend to not be able to obtain the same ratio of EPA:DHA that fish oil can.

Sourcing

Ideally smaller fish sources, such as sardines, act as a better source for omega 3’s due to the lower mercury content in these fish. However, all supplements have to meet a standard in regards to mercury content, and so, if you are purchasing a high quality fish oil supplement made in Canada, they need to comply with this standard.

6 Health Benefits

Joint Health

One of the main uses of fish oil is for pain. Specifically, it can be beneficial for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, etc. Fish oil helps to lubricate your joints and decrease inflammation, both leading to decreased pain.

Heart Health

Fish oil can be quite beneficial for overall heart health by firstly improving the function of the heart muscle itself. In addition, fish oil may help to increase HDL (good) cholesterol, decrease triglycerides, decrease blood pressure, decrease atherosclerosis (i.e. plaque build-up), and prevent stroke.

Weight Management

Fish oil may help to improve weight by decreasing central adiposity when taking with exercise. It has also been shown to aid with conversion of muscle to lean muscle mass.

Mental Health

As mentioned above, EPA and DHA both have a role to play in brain development and health. In short, fish oil may be beneficial for the following conditions: depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and dementia.

Skin Health

Fish oil can be beneficial for various skin conditions through its beneficial properties in addressing inflammation. That being said it may provide some relief to those suffering from acne, psoriasis, SLE, and eczema.

Reproductive Health

In general, fish oil can help women who are trying to conceive, have conceived, and women who are not conceiving. In regards to pregnancy, fish oil may help increase chances of conception. Fish oil can also help to decrease inflammation overall which may contribute to premenstrual tension issues such as cramping. In addition, fish oil may prove to be beneficial for men experiencing erectile dysfunction due to is beneficial properties in heart health – specifically related to blood pressure, cholesterol, and atherosclerosis.

Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

Adrenal Support: Diet and Lifestyle Changes to Combat Stress

April 12, 2016 by elisha

The adrenal glands are located on-top of the kidneys, and are responsible for secretion of hormones related to stress (including cortisol). When stress is perceived in a positive way and is short-lasting, it can be beneficial. In fact, recent research has suggested that individuals who are stressed but have a positive association with that stress, are healthier than individuals who have no stress at all. When on the other end of the spectrum, where you may be overly stressed with a negative appraisal of it, your health could greatly suffer as a result. When stress is taken out of the context of moderation and not perceived well, many can run into problems. Stress that is long standing can cause stress hormones circulate for longer, causing destruction and harm to one’s body. This might look like increased blood pressure, increased weight or weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, indigestion, and the list goes on. Your diet and lifestyle can play a large role in how your organs manage this stress and how you manage stress on a mental – emotional level. These diet and lifestyle changes may include:

Dietary Changes

Consume lean protein with every meal
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and high – sugar beverages such as Gatorade
Avoid processed sugars
Follow an anti-inflammatory diet
Consume adequate amounts of water
Eliminate sources of food sensitivities, or sources of inflammation, from the diet
Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet – specifically peppers, dark-green leafy vegetables, oranges, guava and papaya.
Consume a breakfast that includes a carbohydrate combined with a protein

Many of these dietary factors are focused on balancing blood sugar levels, decreasing burden on organs for processing and digesting, decreasing stimulating foods which can trigger cortisol spikes and wear you out physically, decreasing sources of inflammation which can contribute to mental-emotional upset (i.e. depression, anxiety, stress).

Lifestyle Changes

Eat regularly timed meals
Practice mindful eating by taking time to eat and enjoy the food that is put in front of you, making sure to chew adequately
Manage your stress through various methods including:
- Journalling
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Reading
- Deep breathing
- Exercising
Adopt regular sleeping habits
Partake in regular exercise
Adopt a lifestyle of balance (work versus play)
Seek a health care provider to help you to combat the effects of stress i.e. Naturopathic Doctor, Counselor, Registered Massage Therapist, Medical Doctor, etc.

Many of these lifestyle factors help one to be able to manage stress effectively and the physical effects of stress. If you are in need of help to manage stress, support your adrenal glands, combat depression, combat anxiety, or to manage the effects of stress; please consider consulting myself or another health care provider. Do not suffer alone.

Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

Vitamin D

February 2, 2016 by elisha

Much media and research is spent exploring and shedding light on vitamin D. Recently I have engaged in several discussions about vitamin D, and have had requests to bring more information to light about it and its role in our health.

Sources and absorption of vitamin D

To begin with, it is important to explore how vitamin D is received, used, and processed by the body. There are not many food sources of vitamin D aside from fortified foods (meaning certain foods have vitamin d added to them in their processing and manufacturing). Additional food sources include oily fish, such as salmon or sardines, and cod liver oil. These foods are not adequate sources of vitamin D, but absorption of vitamin D from them can be enhanced through the presence of bile or fat in the intestinal tract. The ultimate source of vitamin D is from sunlight. The type of ray that is required to make vitamin D is UVB rays. This type of ray causes us to be more prone to burns, and so, it is important to have not just UVB light but UVA rays as well. Some individuals choose to obtain vitamin D from tanning beds. Though tanning beds do provide an equivalent vitamin D source, it is important to consider the risks and inquire as to whether or not the tanning bed has UVA combined with UVB rays. The World Health Organization does advice against the use of tanning beds, so please keep this in mind. For more information on the health benefits of sun exposure, refer to this previous blog: https://www.plattsvilledoctor.ca/health-benefits-of-sun-exposure/.

Once the vitamin d is absorbed, it goes to the liver, and then the kidney, where it is converted into an active form. If an individual’s liver or kidney are not functioning up to par, this can alter our ability to make use of vitamin D. This active form is more commonly known as D3.

Conditions aided from vitamin D

Vitamin d is used in the body to influence cell growth, cell differentiation, insulin secretion, and calcium absorption (vitamin K helps with directing this calcium to your bones though). What this translates to is that vitamin d can be beneficial for decreasing tumor growth and tumor metastasis. In addition, vitamin D may be useful for the following conditions:

Autoimmune disease
Back pain
Burns
Cancer
Colds and flus
Congestive heart failure
Diabetes
Depression
Fatigue
Hearing loss
Infections
Muscle pain
Osteomalacia
Osteoporosis
Paget’s disease
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Rickets
Seasonal affective disorder

Though these conditions may benefit from vitamin D, it is best to consult with your health care provider before self – prescribing due to the potential for interaction with any supplements or medication that you may be taking.

Dose of vitamin D

The dose of vitamin D recommended really depends on each individual circumstance. For example, if someone is on certain medication or has a particular medical condition, they may require more vitamin D than another person. In order to attain the most vitamin D from the sun as possible, research has shown that exposure of 5% of your skin (i.e. hands, face and possibly your lower arm) for 15minutes, 3 times a week for 12 weeks to the sun, is equivalent to oral administration of 400iu/day of vitamin D. The greater the skins exposure to the sun the greater the amount of vitamin D that is absorbed. Ultimately, the best dose of vitamin D for you is best discussed with your health care provider.

Have you benefitted from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.