by Chad Johnson, MS, L.Ac | Integrative Therapy, Pain Management
PTSD is a physiological disorder that can result from being exposed to a traumatic event. The disorder results in several different symptoms including anxiety, irritability, insomnia and flashbacks. The effects of post-traumatic stress disorder in someone’s life can be far reaching. Feelings of hopelessness, shame and despair, problems at work or with relationships, serious health problems, depression, anxiety and drug or alcohol abuse are not uncommon. Getting help can be hard at first, but can have a great impact for helping PTSD.
A recent study into the efficacy of acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has shown promising results.
Researchers investigated the effects of acupuncture in adjunct to normal treatment approaches and the results showed significant improvement. Studies in the past have shown that veterans with PTSD are wary of seeking treatment for PTSD as many do not believe that mental healthcare can be effective. Researchers hope that with the increased efficacy of the adjunctive acupuncture treatment, veterans will be less reticent towards seeking treatment for PTSD.
Researchers investigated the effects of acupuncture in adjunct to normal treatment approaches and the results showed significant improvement. Studies in the past have shown that veterans with PTSD are wary of seeking treatment for PTSD as many do not believe that mental healthcare can be effective. Researchers hope that with the increased efficacy of the adjunctive acupuncture treatment, veterans will be less reticent towards seeking treatment for PTSD.
The acupuncture treatment also saw secondary benefits for those treated as many reported a decrease in depression and pain as well as a general improvement in mental and physical well-being. PTSD can be debilitating and even more so with little or no treatment.
The Military Stress Recovery Project (MSRP) is a unique program that provides free community acupuncture to veterans and active duty soldiers with PTSD and their family members.
Treatment in a MSRP clinic is unique for several reasons. Patients are treated in a group setting, sitting in comfortable chairs. There is an environment of calm and support. The patients are treated using the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol, a series of 5 needles placed in one ear. The program is designed to address all the needs of people with PTSD.
The MSRP clinics have been very successful. Patients report stress reduction, improved mental clarity, improved energy, enhanced performance, better sleep, fewer bad dreams and headaches, less anxiety and depression, reduced anger and pain, improved general health and better relationships.
Those suffering from PTSD should consult a doctor about treatment and discuss the option of acupuncture as well because it has been proven to help.
See Ways to Combat PTSD Naturally for more resources on this subject.
Sources
http://bit.ly/1Os0ndF
http://bit.ly/1rSwjDe
by Chad Johnson, MS, L.Ac | Immune Health, Integrative Therapy, Pain Management, Prevention
May is known as Senior Citizens Month, a great time to reach out to your loved ones and check in on their health. As we age, our health needs change. It is especially important for seniors to take care of their health and do so in a way that is as natural as possible and does not require potentially harmful prescription drugs. Traditional Chinese Medicine and other alternative practices have been proven to help aid the aging process and chronic conditions that may come with it.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a common treatment for chronic pain, which can be very beneficial for seniors. This centuries-old practice addresses the body as a whole by using specific acupuncture points to return the body back to its natural balance and relieve pain as well as other symptoms. Acupuncture treatment is non-invasive and is a great natural alternative to prescription medication.
Yoga
It can get harder to stay active as we age. We may find that our bodies just don’t move like they used to. Yoga has many health benefits and can be incorporated into your daily routine. Yoga has been proven to help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. This practice can also help keep your joints healthy and reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis.
Massage therapy
Massage therapy not only has physical health benefits but mental as well. This therapy can work to relieve pain, improve circulation and release tension. Massage is also an excellent stress reliever and can leave you feeling more relaxed and at ease.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a natural remedy that has been used for thousands of years. Aromatherapy involves breathing or applying essential oils to the body to help improve health. Different essential oils can have a large range of benefits. This therapy can help lower pain, increase a sense of well being and help improve sleep for patients with dementia.
Animal-assisted therapy
As we age, we sometimes need different kinds of support and companionship. Animals have been proven to help adults with dementia and decrease a sense of loneliness. Animals can also help promote physical activity, which can increase mood and overall health.
Music therapy
Music therapy has been proven to be beneficial for seniors. This non-invasive therapy can help reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions. Calming music can also be helpful for adults with dementia and reduce behavioral symptoms.
by Chad Johnson, MS, L.Ac | Nutrition, Prevention
Olive Oil
Olive oil is beneficial for many reasons. Researchers now know that this oil contains the antioxidants called polyphenols, which can help prevent age-related diseases. In recent years, there has been much controversy over imported olive oil. In our household we use Zoe olive oil and enjoy very much. It’s important to remember not to cook on high heat with Olive Oil as that creates free radicals. Instead, we use it in a salad dressing. (We cook with Ghee or Coconut oil, but that’s for another post)
Fish
Fish like wild caught salmon are a no-brainer. They are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help regulate cholesterol levels and can improve heart health, which become increasingly important to take care of as we age.
Nuts
Nuts like almonds are packed with vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants and other nutrients that help fight aging. Those who incorporate nuts into their diet are shown to potentially add years on to their lives. Nuts are a great way to also get more protein into your diet and keep you energized.
Dark Chocolate
Quality dark chocolate not only tastes good but can also be great for your health. Cocoa is packed with flavonoids that are good for heart disease and promote healthy blood vessels. Add a little dark chocolate into your diet to help lower your risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.
Blueberries
Blueberries are known for their high amount of antioxidant properties. These berries can help inflammation and age-related deficiencies such as memory loss and motor function.
Avocado
Avocado is filled with omega-3s and vitamin E, which prove to have many health benefits. If you are fighting aging skin, avocado is your go-to food for rejuvenating your skin as well as stronger nails and hair.
by Chad Johnson, MS, L.Ac | Nutrition, Recipes
We use this on all the fresh salad greens we eat each day.
This is more a method than a recipe — good luck!
- 1 part extra virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 part Lime juice (or raw apple cider vinegar for a different taste but added health benefits)
- a few pinches of garlic granules to taste
- 1/8 part raw honey
- a few pinches of Celtic or Himalaya sea salt to taste
- Whisk all ingredients together
Famous Chef method of Dressing a Salad:
- Add to bottom of salad bowl
- Add salad next
- Toss to coat
- Enjoy a generous helping of salad
by Chad Johnson, MS, L.Ac | Immune Health, Nutrition, Pain Management
Fish
Fish are full of omega-3 fatty acids, which work as a natural anti-inflammatory. Some of the best fish to consume include salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring, which are all rich in omega-3s. The recommended weekly amount is around six to eight ounces of fish. Of course, be careful to choose fish that have been sustainably caught in cleaner waters.
Oil
Healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil, avocado and safflower oils are packed with healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties.
Broccoli
Because it contains sulforaphane, broccoli has been shown to slow and prevent the progression of osteoarthritis. Broccoli is rich in vitamin K, C and calcium, which is known to help strengthen bones.
Green Tea
Green tea has many health benefits, one including reducing pain of arthritis. The tea is full of antioxidants that work to lower inflammation and the disintegration of cartilage.
Citrus Fruits
Fruits like oranges, limes and grapefruits are very acidic and full of vitamin C. Vitamin C can help aid healthy joints for those with arthritis and work as an anti-inflammatory.
Beans
Beans are beneficial for many reasons. They are a great alternative to meat for protein and are rich in folic acid, magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium. Red beans, kidney beans and pinto beans are known to improve muscle health and the heart and immune system.
Having a natural and well-rounded diet is a part of any healthy lifestyle, but can be especially beneficial for arthritis and chronic pain.
