Friday, November 14, 2008

Chiropractic Care Eases Severe Depression

A case study authored by Alain M.J. Desaulniers credits regular chiropractic care with helping a 46-year old man overcome his major depression and increase his quality of life.

More than 15 million American adults are diagnosed with mood disorders every year, which include major depression, Dysthymia and Bipolar Disorder. The disease is usually treated with antidepressants, according to the study, but the quality of life of people who are clinically depressed is subdued by the medications’ many unwanted side effects.

The prevalence of the disease has Dr. Hovinga pointing to the case report published this year in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. The report states the important role chiropractic care can play in the management of depressions.

In this particular study, a 46-year old man suffered from major depression and was taking an antidepressant with unwanted side effects, such as decrease in his sex drive, dizziness, muscle weakness and insomnia. A chiropractic evaluation revealed that he had suffered physical trauma in the past, which led to vertebral subluxations. A subluxation is a condition in which the body is unable to function properly because of interferences with the nervous system, and the condition may be corrected with chiropractic adjustments.

The patient had a total of 34 adjustments done on various parts of his spine over a period of 11 months. After the first visit, his dizziness subsided, and he experienced a decrease in lower back and neck pain. After three visits, he felt less anxious and fatigued and reported an increase in muscle strength. Over time, his depression significantly improved, and he was eating healthier.

Previous studies have shown a correlation between injury or trauma to the spine and the onset of social disorders, in addition to biochemical changes in the brain.
One of the areas that chiropractic care focuses on in the spinal cord is enriched with neuropeptides receptors, which are responsible for the so-called brain reward cascade that triggers a feeling of well-being.

“An impairment of these receptors due to subluxation in the corresponding area of the spine can be one of the underlying causes for depression and for mood or social alterations,” said Dr. Hovinga. “However, more studies of this kind are needed. But one thing is clear: An adjusted spine is vital to our health, to our overall state of well being and thus to our quality of life.”

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Editor’s note:
Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga, whose office is located at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100, Covington, WA 98042 (telephone 253-639-9822).


Reference:
“Effect of Subluxation-Based Chiropractic Care on Quality of Life in a Patient With Major Depression” by Alain M.J. Desaulniers, Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, April 23, 2008.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Diet Change May Ease ADHD

An article authored by Nina Larson credits changes in diet with the successful treatment of hyperactivity in children.

As part of a long-term study that began in 1996-1997 in the southwestern Norwegian town of Stavanger, 23 children aged four to 11 — all suffering from hyperactive disorders including ADHD — were put on milk-free and/or gluten-free diets. Their development has been monitored by researchers ever since in a quest to prove a theory by scientist Karl Ludvig Reichelt that a metabolic disorder hinders the adequate breakdown of certain proteins in kids suffering from hyperactive disorders.

Eating certain foods like milk and gluten may accelerate ADHD in the children, because they lack an enzyme that breaks down proteins like casein (which is found in milk and enables milk-clotting to make cheese), explains Covington-based Dr. Treye Hovinga, D.C. Moreover, the missing or inhibited enzyme has an opium-like effect on the children’s brains. By reducing the intake of foods containing proteins that require casein for proper digestion, the patients’ hyperactivity can be controlled.

Dr. Treye points to the study published this year by Agence France Press.

In the study, 22 of the children taken off milk products and other foods containing casein showed an almost immediate improvement in their mental health, including overall behavior, enhanced attention-span and increased learning capabilities. The symptoms returned, however, as soon as the foods were reintroduced into their diets. Most kids had been taking medications, like Ritalin, to treat the disorders prior to changing their diets. After adjusting their food intake, however, they were taken off the medicine.

Similar international research has already been done to link the protein disorder with autism and schizophrenia. Now, ADHD may stem from the same digestive disorder as well.

“Digestive problems and metabolic imbalances have an overall effect on our bodies, even on our mental state,” explains Dr. Treye, who also stresses the importance of a properly functioning nervous system. Dr. Treye’s chiropractic practice features the Insight Subluxation Station, a technology used by NASA in the space program, to measure nervous system health and performance.

“Listen to your body and you can dramatically alter your well-being,” Dr. Treye continued. “That old adage is true: You are what you eat.”


Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Treye, whose office is located at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100, Covington, WA 98042 (telephone 253.639.9822).

Reference:

“Diet Change Gives Hyperactive Kids New Taste for Life in Norway” by Nina Larson, AFP and Yahoo! News, Feb. 24, 2008.

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Infants and chiropractic

Local Doctor Calls for Further Research

Chiropractic Care Helps Pre-Term Infant Thrive

(Aug 14, 2008~ Covington, WA). A case report authored by Kelly A. Miller credits chiropractic care with the successful management of a pre-term infant who had suffered severe lung ailments, gastrointestinal complications and developmental delays, both physical and mental.

More than 50,000 babies are born prematurely in the United States each year, according to Covington-based Dr. Treye Hovinga, D.C. Of those who survive, many suffer from lung ailments and respiratory distress, with some facing a life-long battle.

These alarming numbers have Dr. Hovinga pointing to the case report published this year in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. The report suggests that chiropractic care may alleviate some associated effects of premature births.

In this particular study, an infant born at 24 weeks gestation, underwent surgery and spent four months in a neonatal intensive care unit. After her discharge from the hospital, she continued to receive antibiotics as well as ventilation and oxygen therapy. Three months after her discharge, she was diagnosed by a
chiropractor with spinal subluxations. The infant weighed only 12 pounds; she
was listless, constipated and congested. She was put on a regimen of regular
chiropractic evaluations and adjustments, starting with twice daily for two weeks,
that were decreased gradually to once every two weeks. During the course of chiropractic care, according to the case report, the baby increased her range of motion and started breathing on her own as her lung function improved; she was less congested and colicky and became noticeably more verbal and alert to her surroundings. She sat up and was able to stand on her own.

Four months later, the infant was virtually symptom-free and in no need of further medical attention. In her physical and cognitive development she was now one month ahead of her age.

“This case study, where chiropractic care improved health challenges associated with premature birth, is promising,” said Dr. Hovinga, “but more studies of this kind are needed. Nevertheless, this report gives hope to many parents of premature babies with underdeveloped lungs. Even full-term infants as young as a few months can benefit tremendously from regular chiropractic care.”

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Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

Reference:
“Chiropractic Care of a Pre-Term Infant with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia & Vertebral Subluxation” by Kelly A. Miller, Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, February 19, 2008.

Autism and chiropractic

Local Doctor Calls for Further Research
Study Shows Chiropractic Care Can
Benefit Autistic Children


(Sep 4, 2008-Covington, WA). The past decade has seen the number of diagnosed cases of autism rapidly increase throughout the nation. These alarming numbers have Covington-based Dr. Treye Hovinga, D.C. pointing to a study that indicates that chiropractic care may alleviate – at least to some degree – some of the associated symptoms of autism.

Dr. Hovinga references a study published this year in Clinical Chiropractic. The study showed that spinal manipulation (particularly upper cervical adjusting) may help with some symptoms of autism. It cannot cure or treat the underlying disease process, but for patients with autism, it may be the symptoms of autism that are the most distressing.

“Although the results of this study are promising, further research is clearly needed,” said Hovinga, who follows scientific developments in the chiropractic profession quite closely.

Autism is a life-long developmental disability that affects social interaction, communication and imagination. There are no medications that can cure autism,
but drugs can relieve and treat symptoms – such as aggression and hyperactivity – thus helping autistic individuals cope with their disease. Even though the exact causes for the disease are still unknown, current research mainly focuses on genetics; however, environmental factors and imbalances in neurochemistry may also be involved. There is no single, unique measure of abnormality found in autism, because the spectrum of autistic conditions and symptoms is wide ranging – from severe disability in some patients to mild problems of communicating and understanding in others with average and above average intelligence.

Parents first become concerned about their child’s behavior – particularly the absence of play – when their child is around 18 months old. Earlier detection, however, is possible. According to Jane Jennings and Martina Barker of the Newbury Chiropractic Center in Berkshire, Great Britain, a simple checklist can help parents evaluate early on whether their child might be autistic: Does the child pretend play? Does the child use his or her index finger to point, to indicate interest in something? Does the child take an interest in other children? Does the child enjoy playing peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek? And does the child ever bring objects over to you to show you something? If the answer to two or more questions is “no,” autism may be a factor because it impairs the way the child communicates, relates to other people and understands emotional expressions.

During the aforementioned study, researchers carried out a series of chiropractic adjustments on 26 autistic children over a 9-month period. The results were an improvement in certain reflexes and sensations, an increase in neck range of motion, and improvement of other health problems.

Many of the children were taken off Ritalin; their bladder and bowel control improved; some children started to speak, eye contact and attention span improved while hyperactivity and aggressive behavior were reduced. Also, five children were able to attend regular classes at school for the first time.

The autistic children suffered from neurological interference that hindered their development. The researchers concluded that correcting a chiropractic partial dislocation can positively affect local neurological function and cause an overall improvement. Even though there was no control group to back up the findings, the results are encouraging: They show that chiropractic care may improve the quality of life of autistic children by relieving some of the symptoms of their disease.

“To the extent that chiropractic care can have a positive effect, that is beneficial; but improving the quality of life for autistic children is just a first step toward the ultimate goal of finding a cure,” concluded Hovinga.

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Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

Reference Material:
“Autism: A Chiropractic Perspective” by Jane Jennings and Martina Baker of the Newbury Chiropractic Centre, Newbury, Berkshire, UK, published in Clinical Chiropractic (2006), Vol. 9, pp. 6-10.

Fish Oil - ESSENTIAL fatty acid

Holy Mackerel!

Research identifies fatty fish oil’s many health benefits.


(Aug 1, 2008 Covington, WA). It’s no fish story that those who include seafood as a staple in their diet benefit from the ingestion of high levels of omega-3 fatty acids — known to reduce the risks for heart-related diseases, age-related cognitive decline, abnormal brain development and functioning, even obesity and mood disorders. Now, new studies have shown that it is the oil from fatty fish (salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel) that may offer the most health benefits.

During the course of a 10-year study conducted in Sweden, it was established that the consumption of fatty fish oils might inhibit a commonly found receptor for kidney cancers in women, the Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), which triggers more than 80% of kidney cancers. Consistent long-term intake of fatty fish oil reduced the RCC risk by up to 74% in the Swedish women tracked for the report. At the same time, the intake of fatty fish oils triggered an increase in the level of serum vitamin D in these women. Low levels of vitamin D are believed to trigger the development and progression of RCC.

“You might say that fatty fish oil is phat!” said a smiling Dr. Treye Hovinga when contacted about the study. “Even lean fish — although to a lesser extent — provide similar health benefits,” the doctor continued. Hovinga, whose chiropractic offices are located in Covington, WA, follows developments in chiropractic science closely.

“Consuming fish oil or eating raw, baked or broiled fish — not fried — can also
protect your heart’s electrical system by decreasing the risk of fatal heart-rhythm disorders,“ noted Hovinga. “Omega-3 fats have been found to benefit a healthy heart rhythm,” he added.

In addition, according to a study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, fish oil consumption by the elderly prevented a decline in heart rate variability that was caused by same-day exposure to indoor airborne pollutants (which can trigger arrhythmia and sudden death.)

This study also found that a diet including fish at least once a week has other significant health benefits for the elderly. These finds included a 60% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease as well as a 10% slower rate of annual age-related cognitive decline (and a 13% slower rate decline when fish was consumed more than once a week). In addition, seafood and by products decreased incidences of strokes because high levels of omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA or docosahexaenoic acid) are crucial for normal brain functioning.

There’s even more to this school of thought.

“ Several epidemiological studies find a correlation between omega-3 fatty acids intake and mood disorders like depression — which are affected by an omega-3 fatty acids deficit. In addition, people suffering from coronary artery disease may benefit from omega-3 fatty acids as well since there is an established link between the disease and depression,” stated Hovinga.

“An increased omega-3 intake, even through supplementation, may have therapeutic benefits,” he declared.

Fishing for compliments about a reduce waistline?

A study conducted by the University of South Australia noted that daily omega-3 fatty acids intake — when combined with exercise — can aid in weight loss because fatty acids increase blood flow to the muscles during exercise and thereby assist in fat burning.

“The studies are overwhelming. Will people change their dietary habits due to the promise this research shows? It’s certainly food for thought,” concluded Dr Hovinga.

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Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

Reference Material:
Alicja Wolk, Susanna C. Larsson, Jan-Erik Johansson, and Peter Ekman: Long-term Fatty Fish Consumption and Renal Cell Carcinoma Incidence in Women, JAMA, September 20, 2006, Vol. 296, No. 11

Journal of the American College of Cardiology, July 12, 2006.

Fish Oil Prevents Potentially Deadly Heart Rate Variability, Science Daily, December 2005.

Fish Consumption May Be Linked to Reduced Cognitive Decline, Medscape, Oct. 11, 2005.

Gordon Parker, Neville A. Gibson, Heather Brotchie, Gabriella Heruc, Anne-Marie Rees and Dusan Hadzi-Pavlovic: Omega-3-Fatty Acids and Mood Disorders, The American Journal of Psychiatry, June 2006.

Reuters, Australian Study Finds Fish Oil Helps Weight Loss, July 28, 2006.

(Edited and re-written by Tekla Szymanski)

Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity Can Be Deadly

Harvard study finds that overweight kids risk premature death.

(Jul 4, 2008, Covington, WA). Overweight children most often become overweight adults. Sure, there are those who seek guidance or find inspiration and commit themselves to a healthier lifestyle. Unfortunately, those success stories are few and far between. The majority of obese children leave adolescence for an adult life already ripe with health concerns. And, according to a study by Harvard’s School of Public Health, those lives often end prematurely.

The Harvard study – published by the Annals of Internal Medicine – evaluated the health habits and medical records of more than 100,000 women who had provided data through the Nurses’ Health Study (an ongoing federally financed study on women’s health issues) since 1989. Researchers found that those women who were overweight or obese at age 18, had a far greater risk of dying from cancer or heart disease before reaching middle age.

“Today, one-third of U.S. children are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight,” said Dr. Treye Hovinga when contacted about the study. “And, the Harvard research confirms that childhood obesity is a death sentence, “ added Hovinga, whose chiropractic offices are located in Covington, WA.

“The physical and emotional strain on an overweight child is compounded by the

type of behavior uncovered in this study. The obese youth were found less likely
to exercise and more likely to have smoked and consumed alcohol. Let me be the master of the obvious, this is a recipe for a shorter life,“ continued Hovinga.

While the Harvard study did not establish whether permanent weight loss after age 18 decreases the risk of dying prematurely, Dr. Hoivnga urged parents and children to address their health regimen.

“Change the way you live, and you can alter the life path you currently travel,” noted Hovinga. “I preach to my patients that chiropractic care is part of a maintenance program that includes proper diet, exercise and a healthy mental outlook. There is a reason that clichés become clichés. Treat your body like a temple, and that temple will stand for a long time,” he concluded.

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Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

Health Care Spending and Chiropractic

Americans Pay Dearly for Health Care

Study ranks U.S. health care system the worst among 23 countries.

(Jun 5, 2008, Covington, WA). Despite spending 16% of its Gross Domestic Product — and double the median on health care expenditures compared to any other country in the world — the United States recorded the lowest score among 23 countries whose health care systems were evaluated in a report published by the Commonwealth Fund this past fall. The Commonwealth Fund is an internationally renown private foundation established in 1918 that finances independent research on health care issues while issuing grants for projects designed to stimulate innovative health care practice and policy in the United States and other industrialized countries.

The U.S. health care system received a score of 66 out of 100 in the study which also concluded that by improving its health care system, the U.S. could save at least $50 - 100 billion in health care spending while preventing 100,000 to 150,000 deaths over a calendar year. The low score was attributed to the poor quality of life that the U.S. offers its patients — rated the worst of those reviewed.

“This is just another reason why people should have a daily regimen that includes exercise, a proper diet and a healthy mental outlook — combined with regular chiropractic care which allows the incredible human body to operate efficiently…a maintenance and preventive care program if you will,” said Dr. Treye Hovinga when contacted about the study.

“We’ve all read and heard about ‘overweight America.’ Well, mix an unfit society with a poor health care system and you have a recipe for disaster,” added Hovinga, whose chiropractic offices are located in Covington, WA.

The Commonwealth Fund report also gives the U.S. health care system failing grades regarding the prevalent overuse (and sometimes unnecessary
duplication) of expensive medical services, a breakdown in communication and coordination among health care providers — and an overall uneven quality of medical services provided.

“It get worse,” noted Hovinga. “The United States scores 15th out of 19 developed nations on easily preventable deaths, like heart attacks, where timely medical care is crucial. We also had the highest infant mortality rate. Moreover, the study found that only 49% of Americans receive preventive care, and even privately insured patients or patients with Medicare don’t necessarily enjoy better life-saving services. And for good measure, only a quarter of U.S. doctors computerize their patient files or keep digital records of written prescriptions,” continued Hovinga.

“Makes you want to go outside and start jogging, doesn’t it?” quizzed the smiling doctor.

“Our nation’s health care system is in the hands of our elected officials. But, you can do something that will have a positive impact on your long-term health. “

“Change the way you live. Maintain optimum health while preventing future concerns,” said Hovinga. “The Commonwealth Fund’s report is pretty clear. Our care system is not healthy — so while it’s always best to stay fit, the importance is magnified while our nation searches for a cure to our health care woes,” he concluded.
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Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

High Blood pressure and Chiropractic

University of Chicago Medical Center study links chiropractic care with reduction of blood pressure.

Lowering Blood Pressure an Easy Adjustment

(May,1 2008, Covington, WA). Researchers at the Hypertension Center at the University of Chicago Medical Center are reporting stunning reductions in the blood pressure of patients afflicted with hypertension following simple and painless chiropractic care.

In the study – published in the March 2, 2007 issue of The Journal of Human Hypertension and featured on WebMD – 50 patients with hypertension were divided into two groups of 25 each. One group of 25 received a specific light force chiropractic adjustment (administered by a chiropractor) to the atlas vertebra (uppermost bone in the neck). This vertebra holds up the head and only relies on soft tissue to maintain alignment. Misalignment, also known as subluxation, usually goes undiagnosed and causes no pain or discomfort. The other group of 25 received a similar procedure but with no adjustment being given. Researchers called this procedure the "sham adjustment." Since the type of adjustment given was very light force, the patients involved in this study did not know if they were receiving the real or sham adjustments.
After 8 weeks of care, the 25 people in the group receiving the real chiropractic adjustments all showed a significant reduction in blood pressure compared to the group that received the sham adjustment. Those patients who got the real adjustment showed an average of 14 mm Hg greater drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure count), and an average of 8 mm Hg greater drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom blood pressure number) over those who got the fake or sham adjustment.
“As noted by the chiropractor who performed on the study team, at the base of the brain are two centers that control all the muscles of the body. If you pinch the base of the brain – if the atlas gets locked in a position as little as a half a millimeter out of line – it doesn’t cause any pain but it upsets these centers," said Dr. Treye Hovinga, a chiropractor whose family wellness practice is located in Covington.

X-rays confirmed that the chiropractic adjustments actually changed the position of the atlas vertebra among those in the study group.

“The study leader reported that the procedure had the effect of not one, but two blood pressure medications given in combination. And, his team reported no side effects whatsoever from the adjustment," added Dr. Treye Hovinga.

“Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is widespread among adults in the United States. And, if uncontrolled, it can lead to heart and kidney failure or a stroke. According to the American Heart Association, nearly one in three adults suffers from hypertension. However, many are unaware that they are afflicted – making high blood pressure the ‘silent killer.’ This study offers so much hope,” noted Dr. Hovinga.
Even with the overwhelming results, the authors of the study posed several questions of their own in the WebMD interview. They wanted to know why blood pressure was reduced. What caused the reduction? What is the relationship between the misaligned atlas vertebra and hypertension?
“Chiropractic care is a maintenance program for the nervous system. If the nervous system is free of stress and operating at peak efficiency, it can lead the body to do incredible things. This study begs for further research. While man struggles to create new and better technologies on a daily basis, we continue to find that the human body is the greatest technology on today’s market – let’s take good care of it,” concluded a smiling Hovinga.
Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

Learing disabilities and chiropractic

Swiss researcher Dr. Yannick Pauli identifies link in published work.

Chiropractic Care May Ease Learning Disabilities

(Apr 2, 2008, Covington, WA). A renowned Swiss doctor has authored research which concludes that chiropractic care has benefited those with learning disabilities and should be included in a multidisciplinary approach to treat affected individuals.

The published work of Dr. Yannick Pauli – the president of the Swiss Chiropractic Pediatric Association – is entitled The Effects of Chiropractic Care on Individuals Suffering from Learning Disabilities and Dyslexia: A Review of the Literature. “Pauli’s culmination of data certainly gives hope to those afflicted and their loved ones,” said Dr. Treye Hovinga, a chiropractor whose family wellness practice is located in Covington, WA.

Of all school-age children in the United States, 3-10% are affected with a learning disability. These range from speech and language disorders to academic skills disorders like dyslexia (which affects 8 in 10 children diagnosed as learning disabled) and include motor skills disorders such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

These neurodevelopmental disorders have long-term effects as well. It is not only about the inability to read, write or concentrate. The disorders may also interfere with self-esteem, family and peer relationships later on in life. And, they can cause loss of motivation and/or problems in socializing.

“Since most learning disorders are based in the brain, they are central nervous dysfunctions thought to be triggered by nerve interference or misalignments called vertebral subluxations,” added Dr. Hovinga.

Pauli writes that these spinal misalignments “alter the quality and quantity of neural inputs to the central nervous system […] and result in an asymmetric function of brain hemispheres […], [thus preventing] the achievement of temporal coherence between the two hemispheres.”

“In other words, a reduction of spinal misalignment may restore proper joint and central nervous system function and improve motor balance overall,” noted Hovinga.


In his analysis, Pauli also found that chiropractors are not primarily interested in the cure of cognitive and behavioral disorders. He states, “The chiropractor does not attempt to take over the role of a speech therapist, educational psychologist or neuropsychologist in diagnosing or treating the disorder, but rather offers a unique perspective by attempting to correct a central nervous system dysfunction thought to impair the individual’s potential to learn properly.”

Pauli explains that correcting the underlying cause may be the key in maintaining various cognitive abilities that are essential to learning, because the only source of constant stimulation to the brain comes from the spine. And misalignment of the spine causes inadequate stimulation of the brain, which in turn triggers problems throughout the body.

“It is important to point to Dr. Pauli’s call for a multi-disciplinary approach when assisting those with a learning disability,” said Hovinga. “Chiropractic care – a combination of adjustments, proper diet and exercise plus a healthy mental approach – is not a cure all. But, it is a wonderful maintenance program for the nervous system. And, a full functioning nervous system allows the incredible organism known as the human body to do some amazing things,” concluded Hovinga.

Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822

Infertility and chiropractic

Research lends hope to infertile women.

Chiropractic Care Can Aid Conception

(Mar 3, 2008, Covington, WA). A study authored by Dr. Madeline Behrendt – Chairwoman of the World Chiropractic Alliance Council on Woman’s Health – links chiropractic care and the ability of previously infertile woman to conceive a baby and carry the fetus full term.

Behrendt’s work, entitled: Insult, Interference and Infertility: An Overview of Chiropractic Research, was published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. The study tracked 15 women, ages 22-65, who had a history of fertility problems – some for as long as nine years. Eight of the women had previously undergone unsuccessful fertility treatments.

These 15 woman entered chiropractic care. “Each was determined to close the gap between how her body was designed to function and the reality of how her body was functioning,” stated Dr. Behrendt.

The results were incredible.

14 of the 15 women became pregnant following the start of chiropractic adjustments. The 65-year old woman had ceased having a menstrual cycle at age 18 following a traumatic fall. Then, nearly five decades later – and little more than a month after starting chiropractic care – her cycles resumed. Although she did not get pregnant, she was advised to use birth control.

“Some of the case studies are remarkable,” noted Dr. Treye Hovinga, a Covington-based chiropractor.

Dr. Hovinga pointed to a 32 year-old woman described in the study. “She had no menstrual cycle for 12 years. She had attempted multiple fertility treatments with no success. After two months of chiropractic care – with attention to the lumbar regions – menstruation started. And, after four cycles, unassisted pregnancy occurred,” said Hovinga. “I’m not saying that chiropractic is a specific cure for infertility, but I will point to the concept that interference within your nervous system can disrupt normal body functions,” he continued.

Also detailed was the plight of a 26 year-old woman who suffered from severe scoliosis with a Cobb’s angle of 58 degrees. She too was infertile despite numerous medical treatments to assist conception. “After six months of chiropractic care – with adjustments applied to the sacrum, lumbar and cervical regions – the Cobb’s angle decreased to 47 degrees. One month later, unassisted pregnancy occurred,” commented Hovinga.

The study offers hope to infertile women and an alternative to fertility drugs. There are 40,000 births in the U.S. each year that are achieved using assisted reproductive technologies. But, there are yet to be studies as to the long-term effects of these drugs nor has there been a uniform tracking of birth defects among children conceived using these methods.

“The study also defines the chiropractic profession. Chiropractic in itself is not a cure for what ails you, but a means of allowing the human body to operate as it was designed. And, when operating at peak efficiency, the human body can do great things. When you cut yourself – you heal. When the climate changes – your body adjusts. In short, chiropractic care is a great vehicle to improve your general health and function,” added Hovinga.

“Again, Dr. Behrendt’s research is wonderful news for couples trying to start a family. It also serves as further evidence that regular spinal adjustments can have benefits far beyond those that the public normally associates with chiropractic care,” concluded Dr. Hovinga.

Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA, telephone (253) 639-9822.

On the Job Injuries - Chiropractic

Study links chiropractic care with improved health.

Public Safety Workers Find Comfort with Their Chiropractor

Feb 7,2008 - Covington. A study of public safety personnel placed under chiropractic care reveals an improvement in the overall health of these workers.

Changes in Physical State and Self-Perceptions in Domains of Health Related Quality of Life among Public Safety Personnel Undergoing Chiropractic Care — authored by Spartanburg, SC Drs. Wesley McAllister and W.R. Boone — was published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. The firefighters, emergency and public utility workers who took part in the study averaged 5.5 months of chiropractic care. The patients ranged in age from the mid-20’s to the late-60’s. They were assessed on a weekly basis and adjusted when necessary.

The research demonstrated that chiropractic care coincided with a decrease in back pain and other physical ailments after a relatively short period of time. The research also revealed that the patients themselves gave their general health and well-being a higher rating following care.

“Even in the short term, chiropractic care benefited the health of the study group,” commented Dr. Treye Hovinga, a Covington-based chiropractor. “The study depicts the workers’ significant physical improvements and enhanced self-perceptions of their overall wellness — combining one’s physical, mental and emotional status,” added Hovinga.

“This is yet more research that defines the chiropractic profession,” she stated. “Chiropractic in itself is not a cure, but a means of allowing the human body to operate as it was designed. And, when operating at peak efficiency, the human body can do great things — as these public safety workers came to find out,” added Hovinga.

Before the first physical assessment (cervical and lumbar range of motion, spinal balance, leg length, orthopedics, motor strength, reflexes and sensory tests) by their chiropractor – and then again at the end of the trial study — each patient was asked to rate his or her overall state of health. They were also asked to assess physical and mental well-being, stress level, quality of life perception and overall life enjoyment.

The report found that, as a group, the individuals’ physical discomforts decreased. Most importantly, all participants assessed their overall health and wellness to be much better than before they underwent regular chiropractic care. And, the subjects reported an improvement in their job performance and a substantial decrease in stress.

“We have a vested interest in the well-being of our emergency and public safety personnel,” said Dr Hovinga. “Regular chiropractic care can have tremendous positive effects on a patient’s performance level, which translates into fewer sick days, a decreased risk of injury — and, with that, substantially lower medical expenses,” he continued.

“Public safety workers endure stress and stress-related injuries — both physical and emotional,” concluded Dr Hovinga. “But, in this case, the chiropractic care they were afforded allowed their bodies to operate at a higher level. It just goes to show you that if you treat your body right, your body will take good care of you.”

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Reference:
Wesley McAllister and W.R. Boone, “Changes in Physical State and Self-Perceptions in Domains of Health Related Quality of Life among Public Safety Personnel Undergoing Chiropractic Care,” Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, August 6, 2007

ADHD and Chiropractic

Published Study Draws Attention

Chiropractic Care Benefits Adults with ADHD

(Jan 04, 2008, Covington, WA. Dr. Yannick Pauli – President of the Swiss Chiropractic Pediatric Association – has authored a study that concludes that chiropractic care can benefit adults with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

The study entitled — Improvement in Attention in Patients Undergoing Network Spinal Analysis: a Case Series Using Objective Measures of Attention — was published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research.

Pauli monitored nine adults (four men and five women with an average age of 40 years) who displayed various symptoms of ADHD. Each underwent care known as Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) twice a week for two months. “NSA is a holistic approach to wellness and body awareness,” explained Dr. Treye Hovinga, a Covington-based chiropractor. “The study group received gentle adjustments and low-force touch to the spine that eliminated inner and outer tensions, thereby promoting overall health. The patients were also educated about their bodies. Simply by improving their diet, exercising and adopting a positive mental approach to life, they learned that they themselves could enhance in their overall health and well-being,” added Hovinga.

The degree of each patient’s ADHD disorder was established using the Test of Variable of Attention (TOVA). This test was done once before the study began, one month into chiropractic adjustments, and again after the two-month study. “TOVA is a 22-minute continuous, interactive computer test that measures the response times of its participants to changing visuals on the screen,” said Hovinga. “This test does not trigger a learning effect; therefore, re-testing does not alter the test scores’ overall outcome, making TOVA a reliable means of repeatedly measuring an individual’s extent of ADHD,” he clarified.

After two months of chiropractic care, those in the study group experienced a significant improvement in their TOVA scores as well as a normalizing of their ADHD symptoms.

“The NSA approach not only enabled these individuals suffering from ADHD to

take charge of their own health, but it measurably improved the range and scope of their attention span and reaction time as well as their motor control, memory and alertness,” noted Dr. Hovinga.

“Attention is the cognitive process of selectively concentrating on one thing, while ignoring other things,” writes Dr. Pauli. “Spinal adjustments can benefit individuals with this disorder, because there is a neurological correlation between spinal subluxation and an impaired functioning of parts of the brain, especially the vermal region of the cerebellum, which regulates attention and other cognitive responses,” continued Pauli.

“These findings offer hope to all those — children and adults — suffering from ADHD, a disease that can have devastating consequences on their lives, ranging from a rise in accidents to poor performances in school and work. The results are clinically significant and offer proof as to the positive impact that chiropractic care has on the performance of the human body — including proper brain function. Even the subtlest spinal adjustments carry tremendous physical, psychological and neurological benefits,” summarized Hovinga.

“And, paired with lifestyle changes, we can all significantly improve our health,” he concluded.