by Dr. Anthony Abbruzzese

How Does A Disc Herniate? Dr. Anthony Abbruzzese states that "A healthy disc is tough, resilient and resembles gristle. As a disc degenerates it looses its toughness and assumes the consistency of soft crab meat" This is the process of degeneration. As degeneration progresses the structural integrity of not just the disc but also that of the vertebral segment is compromised. This situation leads to segmental "dysfunction" much like "shimmy" in a car body. This "shimmy" directs stress to the zygoapophyseal joints (facet joints) causing them to also degenerate.

Disc degeneration is easily recognized in post mortem tissue but the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique is a particularly sensitive means of showing this. The reason for this is that "normal" discs are about 85% water. As discs degenerate they loose their water content. An MRI scan is actually a scan of hydrogen ions in the body. Since almost all hydrogen ions are found in body water (H2O) a MRI is basically a very sensitive "water content" scan of all body tissues.

Intervertebral discs are one of only two body structures in adult life which do not have their own blood supply. The other one is the cornea of the eye. The cornea obtains its nutrition from tears while the disc obtains its nutrition from the diffusion of nutrient solutes across the porous endplates of the adjacent vertebrae - aka -the more we move around and stay active, the more hydtarted our discs are.

The diffusion of nutrients across the endplate of the vertebrae can be enhanced by "pumping" activities (types of exercise) and by decreasing intradiscal tension (by segmental traction or distraction). In the case of individuals born with abnormal endplates (i.e. juvenile discogenic disease) the challenge to maintain healthy discs is greater and the liabilities of poisoning discal cells (i.e. smoking) is greater. Disc Degeneration versus Degenerated Tires: In many ways the simile between degenerated discs and degenerated tires is valid. In order for a human being to be successful for long-term (about 80 years) ambulation on a high gravity planet the individual has to have been careful in parenteral selection so that their spinal column genetic makeup will be adequate to deal with the insults and injuries along the way. If initial fabrication of the spine is flawed incapacitation and disability will result. Tires, if sound, can be recapped. Spines only continue to be worn down by the daily insults of life and occupation, occasional traumas, and the process of aging. Genomic testing to determine spine liabilities early in life will be the future equivalent of tire testing before use. Its a shame we don't have this now because because valid self-administered spine health maintenance programs presently exist. Tires are stressed when under inflated and run at high speeds in high temperature environments. In the same way human spines are stressed by labor intensive jobs as well as occupations such as trucking where compressional loading and vibratory factors conspire to injure discs. The simile with tires ends with the observation that humans can actually, on a daily basis, perform health maintenance programs capable of enhancing and improving spine nutrition and function whereas tires can only become more run down over the passage of time. How Does Disc Herniation Start? Unless due to acute trauma a typical disc herniation begins with an unhappy disc. The circumstances that promote this state of affairs is, as can be seen, are usually multiple leading to a loss of disc integrity. Once degeneration exists it usually doesn't take much for a disc herniation to start. Very often the first step in this process is a twist "injury" producing a tear in the disc annulus. Why Is There Back Pain? In the September 2000 Issue of the Oprah Magazine an article "The Real Source of Your Back Pain" written by Emma F. Segal quotes physician Art Brownstein. His answer to the question "What causes most back problems?" was "Muscle strains and sprains." Another quote from Doctor was: "It is a common misconception that back pain starts with a disc problem." These statements are poor responses to the questions asked and are misleading to the public.

It is an anatomic fact the the surface of the brain given over to representing the back is remarkably small. This poor representation is the reason that back pain is non-specific and so poorly localized in comparison to large brain areas for fingers, tongue, etc., allowing more specific localization.

There is no question but that one can "strain or sprain" the ligamentous or muscular components of the spine but most back pain, spasm, and incapacitation are secondary to degenerative changes in the spinal column reflecting congenital abnormalities and well as acquired insults and injuries.

There are many treatment options for a herniated disc ranging from chiropractic to physical therapy to pain medications to spinal decompression to surgery to manipulation under anesthesia to epidurals...and the list goes on and on and on. So which treatment option should you choose? I would start by consulting with your family doctor, chiropractor, or other health care provider.

About the Author

Dr. Anthony Abbruzzese is a Chiropractic Physician located in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Anthony Abbruzzese obtained his Bachelor's Degree of Science in Human Biology and Doctor of Chiropractic from The National University of Health Sciences at Chicago, Ill.

By: Richard Tolar

Helpful Information About Conventional Drug and Alternative Cancer Treatments.

Cancer centers like John Hopkins Cancer Treatment Center, Cancer Treatments Centers Of America, University of New Mexico, and the many others, that can be located at the Nation Cancer Institute, all provide valuable information of what kind of treatments, and care, are available to a person with cancer.

Several cancer treatment centers are available for cancer victims who have been diagnosed with the disease.

Majority of these cancer treatment centers provide different treatment options, including conventional and holistic, for therapy purposes for cancer and the patients body, mind, and spirit.

Studies in these cancer treatment centers are a continuous process and welcome the participation of patients who have qualified in several clinical trials.

Intensive studies has ensured that new cancer treatments are devised all the time, and when a study reach the stage where it can be tried on humans, then clinical trials are carried out.

Giant strides are made every day in this field, as evident by the excellent results recorded in many cancer treatments, and which has made it possible to cure forms of cancer that were once thought to be deadly, a development that has helped multitudes of people to enjoy healthy cancer free lives.

You will find many cancer treatments in most urban areas that are accessible to people, and which are affiliated with big university teaching hospitals, and provide cutting edge technology to treat various forms of cancers.

Sometimes the facilities are used for research purposes that allow researcher fellows to discover new treatment alternatives. Those who live in communities where access to cancer treatment centers is impossible can equally get treatment from local oncologists and cancer treatment centers. They offer good services and can provide cancer patients with professional care and support.

The kinds of services rendered by various cancer treatment centers differs, this depends on whether they use conventional or alternative treatment methods, just as the fees charged varies as well, while those looking for an affordable cancer treatment center can easily find it, likewise those who want luxurious one which operate on traditional method.

Many high-class private clinics usually offer cancer patients gourmet organic food, natural herbal spa treatments, and other luxurious services such as exquisite lodgings; it has been proven that these non-conventional cancer therapies help the patient regain their health.

Is it fair that those with money get the best treatment? They are not actually getting the best treatment, just the best food.

Cancer treatment centers are different from the familiar sterile hospital environment. They provide the comfort that cancer patients need to recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

The Internet is where to check if you are a cancer patient and are looking for a cancer treatment center. Here, you will have access to a number of different cancer treatment options, as well as ideas on such things like diet, nutrition, and spiritual health.

The aims and objectives of cancer treatment centers is to offer patients the best care possible, offer them and their love ones complete support, and reverse a potentially sad episode into a positive experience


Richard Tolar survived a ruptured brain aneurysm 5 years ago. He spent the past 4 years talking to, and watching, people to try and discover where their interest lay. This article is about one of many things people deal with on a daily basis. cancercure.discovermorenow.com

by Elizabeth Harfleet

Today, there are more than enough reasons why people get angry and nasty. While they have the right to feel that way, it is important that they know how to handle the situation properly, especially when in public and other people are around.

Manners or etiquette refers to set of expectations regarding social behavior; also known as conventional norm. I is an unwritten code implemented primarily by parents and teachers to produce well-mannered adults.

Sub-consciously or consciously, people put more emphasis on their first impressions, particularly with others that they wish to have a personal relationship with. This does not cover just physical appearance but also good manners. Nobody wants to associate with anyone who talks when his mouth is full, asks the woman to pay for their first date, or someone who does not stop talking.

Men in particular, who are polite, are greatly appreciated. If they stand when introduced to a woman, say "thank you" and "please" more often, they impress more people - not just the female population.

Manners are written and unwritten rules that define or limit the behavior when interacting with other people. They are often associated with respect and proper conduct.

The following are the guidelines to becoming a well-mannered individual:

1. Be warm and respectful when greeting acquaintances and friends. Uncomplimentary opinions of another person must not be expressed to others. These opinions can destroy another individual's reputation or privacy. Avoid insulting other people, especially when in a crowd since this can adversely affect their emotions and self-confidence. When you are in good health and take care of yourself on the inside, it's bound to radiate to the outside! Find out more about fat workouts that keeps you in good, healthy shape.

2. Be hospitable and accommodating to everyone who pays you a visit. It is considered a personal responsibility or duty of homeowners to be considerate of their visitors.

3. Dress appropriately by choosing clothes that will not offend others, especially when attending meetings, social gatherings, etc.

An average looking person who is well mannered is more pleasing in comparison to good-looking person without manners. While physical appearance is important, it is more essential to pay attention to etiquette, which will be the determining factor of success when interacting and building relationships with other people. What are the secrets celebrities are using to shed pounds after pounds? Secrets revealed at http://www.diets-weightloss.info

About the Author

We all want to look our best, it makes us feel good and gives us confidence. Check out fat workouts for some great tips on getting rid of stubborn fats!

source:www.goarticles.com

By: Dr. Robert Duvall

I remember back in physical therapy school the importance of evaluating and treating people with various problems that were often directly related to poor posture. We remember as children hearing from our mothers and grandmothers to “sit up straight”, or “don’t slouch”. Little did they know that we physically could not do what they wanted us to do. For whatever reason, whether it was tight muscles, weak muscles, crooked spines, long or short legs, we just couldn’t do what they wanted us to do. Then over time, these minor malformations continued to persist and even in some cases worsened as we grew older.

The purpose of this article is to provide you with some basic information regarding your body. Most of you have had minor aches and pains, while others may have experienced, unfortunately, more severe injuries. It’s easy to understand when we have a fall or trip and land funny on our knee, or twist our ankle from uneven pavement, but it sure is quite confusing when we awake one day with that little annoying hip pain. The truth of the matter is that the surprising hip pain has been developing for quite some time. It just decided to show its ugly head at this point in time. But why am I having this pain now? I’ve never had this pain before. Why all of a sudden does my hip hurt? I haven’t done anything out of the ordinary. The importance lies within the body’s own adaptive potential.

The basic premise here is that the body functions as a single unit with many components. Each component influences and is influenced by other components. Efficient and normal motion occurs from the complex integration of all components. Human movement is achieved through the relationships of the kinetic chain. The kinetic chain includes all bones, muscles and joints of the human body, but more specifically the lower half; the feet, ankles, legs, knees, hips, pelvis, and low back. This linkage system is made up of many component parts, each with their own set of specifications. These specifications are similar to what you might find for certain machine parts. In a way, the human body can be thought of as a machine. However, unlike a machine that is comprised of right angles and nuts & bolts, the human body has the capacity to compensate for a malfunctioning part, and in most cases, in more than one area. The human body seeks symmetry. It will do whatever it takes to achieve that and in doing so will compromise tissue health. In turn, it will wreak havoc on the proper biomechanics of human movement, which will greatly affect performance. The human body is the “great compensator”. It will seek and follow the path of least resistance.

The goal of any movement should seek the minimum amount of energy expenditure and maximum joint stability. In human walking, the wide variety of structure and control requires complex integrations for an efficient motor program. The most observable sign of this is a smooth progression of the body’s center of mass during ambulation.

Healthy tissue needs force in order to remain healthy. It requires an optimal amount of stress. Too much or too little can be destructive! Remember we talked about how a tissue’s specifications are similar to those of a machine? Well, when a tissue’s tolerance to absorb force is exceeded, tissue breakdown occurs and inflammation and pain follow. When inflammation and pain are present, one’s performance will surely suffer the consequences.

One significant condition that impacts healthy tissue is a leg length discrepancy. Oh, but that’s normal isn’t it? Everybody has one leg longer than the other. Don’t they? Sure, not everybody has exact proportional measurements when they compare the right and left sides of their body. First of all, how much is significant? This question has been the source of much debate in recent decades. There have been numerous studies in the medical literature that examined the effects of leg length on various structures, most notably in regards to the lower extremities and the low back. Leg length discrepancies break all of the rules required for healthy joints in the lower extremities and the spine. In response to the asymmetry, muscles will structurally shorten or lengthen to adapt to their new position. (See Figure)

There are two types of leg length discrepancies that are present. A structural leg length discrepancy is the anatomical case in which one bone may be longer or shorter than the other. A functional leg length discrepancy refers to the result of something occurring in your body such as a soft tissue contracture or abnormal joint mobility. The most notable functional leg length discrepancy involves the feet. When we say a foot is pronated we mean that it is flat (little to no arch integrity), whereas a supinated foot refers to a foot that has an arch. Generally speaking, a pronated foot creates a short leg, and supinated foot creates a long leg. Of course, during the normal gait cycle, there are appropriate amounts of supination and pronation that must occur in order to achieve efficient and effective ambulation.

The most important role is being able to differentiate between the two. Unfortunately, differentiating the two can be quite difficult. In most cases, both situations occur simultaneously, with one masking the actual degree of the other. Differentiating between the two scenarios requires an extensive evaluation that involves gathering information from several manual tests coupled with information gained from weight-bearing x-ray measurements. Once the proper diagnosis has been made, there are various treatment options that are available.

When a structural leg length discrepancy is present by itself, the most logical option to equalize the leg length is simply by placing an appropriate lift under the heel or under the entire foot itself, depending on the amount of the discrepancy. Most research reports more than a 1/4 inch difference is pathological. Some studies suggest that even an 1/8 inch difference can be detrimental especially for the running athlete. Running causes the ground reaction forces to increase up to fourfold, as well as, increasing the metabolic demand. The range of motion of all joints increases with greater muscle activity required to control these motions.

Treatment for the functional leg length discrepancy requires the skill of a medical professional to address any soft tissue limitations. These are most notably present in which the pelvis may be tilted or twisted in an unusual position. This situation requires manual therapy techniques to align joints properly and to reduce any unwanted muscle activity. In addition to aggressive manual techniques, the use of custom foot orthotics may be recommended in either a structural or a functional leg length situation. Asymmetrical foot function may be causing the leg length discrepancy, therefore appropriate application of an orthotic device will either correct or accommodate to the asymmetry.

It should be quite clear that any treatment option chosen must be made only after a thorough examination has been completed. The examination should include an analysis of gait, an assessment of muscle length and strength, joint mobility, and careful evaluation of foot function.

Article Source: http://myarticlezine.com