New Warning Labels Required by FDA on Epidural Injections for Back Pain
Injections of corticosteroids such as methylprednisolone and hydrocortisone for pain and inflammation treatment can result in devestating neurological impairments such as stroke, paralysis, loss of vision and even death. Concerns voiced to the FDA by medical professionals about the serious side effects and a review of cases in the Adverse Event Reporting System database prompted the agency's call for new mandatory warning labels on the commonly-used pain relief injections, 9 million of which are administered in the US each year.
In their safety announcement issued just last week, FDA states that despite having been a widespread practice for years, "the effectiveness and safety of injection of corticosteroids into the epidural space of the spine have not been established, and FDA has not approved corticosteroids for this use." The agency recommends that patients be apprised of other alternative treatments.
Are you suffering with back pain? Chiropractic care can significantly reduce pain and improve physical functioning without the serious risks associated with spinal injections. In fact, a 2013 Swiss study comparing chiropractic with epidural injections for herniated disc revealed that chiropractic care was more effective and less costly. Call us to find out how we can safely and effectively help alleviate your pain.
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Hypnosis Now Available in our Smithtown Wellness Center!
We are pleased to announce that Jessica Wallert, CH, a certified Consulting Hypnotist, has joined the New Life Wellness Team. Jessica specializes in helping patients self heal through the mind-body connection.
In a hypnosis session, the subconscious is encouraged to take over while the conscious mind is relaxed. Positive suggestions are given and processed through the subconscious. Sensations of pain become less acute and the awareness of unpleasant symptoms and stress can be alleviated while in this state, allowing for positive healing changes to be made.
Hypnosis can be effective for learned behaviors such as smoking and phobias as well as for peak performance training, improved sleep and relaxation. In addition, hypnosis can aid in relief of conditions associated with autism such as obsessive compulsive behavior, anxiety and improved eye contact.
For more information about the benefits of hypnosis, call Jessica at the office at 631.265.1223 or directly at 631.618.7641.
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May is Correct Posture Month
Poor posture can negatively impact your health, most obviously causing back, shoulder and neck pain, but can also cause headache, jaw pain and strain on the joints that can lead to arthritis.
Regular core strengthening exercise such as yoga strengthens stomach muscles which helps support the spine correctly and promote naturally good posture. Simple steps such as keeping your head held up, shoulders back and stomach tucked in when standing also helps in achieving healthy posture. For more information and helpful tips on spine health, visit the American Chiropractic Association.
Are bad posture habits from computer work or even texting causing you pain? Call the office for information on a postural evaluation which can help determine if any imbalances are causing stress on your body.
Yoga tips for good posture:
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Keeping the Twilight Years Golden
Exercise, proper nutrition and social engagement are important at all stages of life. As we age, it is even more crucial to make this part of our daily routine to retain overall health, muscle mass, bone integrity and our brain function. (Check out the ACA's website for tips for healthy aging.)
Achieving both physical and mental balance promotes healthy aging and retaining balance is key to preventing fall-related injuries that are the primary cause of accidental deaths in people over 65 years of age. Dr. Reynolds uses state-of-the-art computerized posture and balance testing software to objectively determine a patient's risk of falling in the future. With this vital information, treatments may be implemented to drastically reduce that risk.
Safe, smart healthy senior living also means knowing when it's time to turn over the keys to ensure the safety of all those on the road. Here are some signs from our friends at Always Best Care of Central Suffolk that indicate a loved one should stop driving.
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Neurofeedback for Peak Performance: Getting Your Head in the Game
Neurofeedback training is often associated with ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and other brain-based disorders. But did you know that this amazing technology can also help improve productivity at work and has been used to help athletes like Olympian Kerri Walsh-Jennings and students "get in the zone" by training the brain to be calm, alert and focused?
With the June college SAT and ACT exam dates looming large on the horizon, now is a great time to get your high school student mentally prepped with BrainCore training. Commencing a neurofeedback program today can help your child acquire the skills necessary to overcome any pre-test anxiety and maximize concentration -- so butterflies in the stomach won't impede the thoughts in the mind!
As for preparing for the college process, the counselors at Your Journey to College can provide guidance throughout every step of the search including recommendations for test prepping and assistance with the application process. For information on BrainCore neurofeedback training for test anxiety and peak performance, contact the office. Visit Your Journey to College at www.yourjourneytocollege.com to learn about the array of college consulting services available.
Read more about neurofeedback studies for peak performance:
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Upcoming Events
May 10, 2014 4-8pm
Suffolk County Police 5K Run.
Police Headquarters Yapank, LI.
Our staff will be on hand to support this benefit run for families of officers who have died.
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