Some reports claim that positive suggestion (e.g., using hypnosis) can significantly improve visual acuity (e.g., in myopes). Based on behavioral, neurocognitive, and ophthalmological findings, the authors provide a critical account to review and challenge some of these data. While acknowledging the relative merits of hypnosis for investigating visual phenomena, an array of arguments converges to propose caveats to the apparent influence suggestion can exert on visual acuity. The authors argue that neither suggestion nor hypnotic phenomena are likely to significantly improve myopic vision and contend that a responsible scientific attitude should carefully outline what hypnosis and suggestion cannot do in addition to what they can. It seems likely that the small apparent influence of suggestion on visual acuity is mediated by changes in attention. The authors outline how attention can affect visual acuity.

Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2004 Apr;52(2):159-87. Raz A, Marinoff GP, Zephrani ZR, Schweizer HR, Posner MI. Columbia University and New York State Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, New York 10032, USA. ar2241@columbia.edu

Energy medicine techniques derive from traditional Chinese medicine and are based upon the concept that health and healing are dependent upon a balance of vital energy, a still mind, and controlled emotions. Physical dysfunctions result from disordered patterns of energy of long standing and reversal of the physical problem requires a return to balanced and ordered energy. Qi Gong (Chi Kung) is a system which teaches an individual to live in a state of energy balance. Shen Qi is a sophisticated form of Qi Gong which relies on no external physical interventions but rather relies on mind control to prevent illness, heal existing physical and emotional problems, and promote health and happiness. This paper will describe the use of these techniques with people who have long-term physical disabilities.

Disabil Rehabil. 1999 May-Jun;21(5-6):269-76. Trieschmann RB.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to summarise all cases in which chiropractic spinal manipulation was followed by death. DESIGN: This study is a systematic review of case reports. METHODS: Literature searches in four electronic databases with no restrictions of time or language. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Death. RESULTS: Twenty six fatalities were published in the medical literature and many more might have remained unpublished. The alleged pathology usually was a vascular accident involving the dissection of a vertebral artery. CONCLUSION: Numerous deaths have occurred after chiropractic manipulations. The risks of this treatment by far outweigh its benefit.

Int J Clin Pract. 2010 Jul;64(8):1162-5. Ernst E. Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK. Edzard.Ernst@pms.ac.uk

This paper qualitatively reviews two complementary therapies; Qi Gong and educational kinesiology (EK). It is being suggested that Qi Gong and EK may be united through a qualitative convergence and a shared underlying concept. The authors hypothesize that a coherent rationale can be formed through this conceptual synthesis and propose that to some extent Qi Gong movements and EK can be considered to work in unison with each other. The logical synthesis of these two therapies is being presented to identify Qi Gong movements with concepts of brain gymnastics and also to explain how this new construct can be developed and implemented into practice. When verified, this hypothesis will allow individuals to better understand Chinese health exercises from the modern science perspective such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and psychoneuroimmunology.

J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2010 Jan;14(1):73-9. Posadzki P, Parekh S, O'Driscoll ML, Mucha D. University of East Anglia, United Kingdom. p.posadzki@uea.ac.uk

Full Title: Evaluation of Applied Kinesiology meridian techniques by means of surface electromyography (sEMG): demonstration of the regulatory influence of antique acupuncture points

BACKGROUND: The use of Applied Kinesiology techniques based on manual muscle tests relies on the relationship between muscles and acupuncture meridians. Applied Kinesiology detects body dysfunctions based on changes in muscle tone. Muscle tonification or inhibition within the test setting can be achieved with selected acupoints. These acupoints belong to either the same meridian or related meridians. The aim of this study is to analyze muscle sedation and tonification by means of surface electromyography. METHODS: Manual muscle tests were carried out using standard Applied Kinesiology (AK) techniques. The investigation included basic AK procedures such as sedation and tonification with specific acupoints. The sedation and tonification acupoints were selected from related meridians according to the Five Elements. The tonification effect of these acupoints was also tested while interfering effects were induced by manual stimulation of scars. The effects of selective neural therapy, i.e. individually tested and selected anesthetic agent, for the treatment of scars were also studied. The characteristics of muscle action were documented by surface electromyographys (sEMG). RESULTS: The sEMG data showed a diminution of signal intensity when sedation was used. Graded sedation resulted in a graded diminution of signal amplitude. Graded increase in signal amplitude was observed when antique acupuncture points were used for tonification. The tactile stretch stimulus of scars localized in meridian-independent places produced diminution of signal intensity on a reference muscle, similar to sedation. These changes, however, were not corrected by tonification acupoints. Correction of these interferences was achieved by lesion specific neural therapy with local anesthetics. CONCLUSION: We demonstrated the central working principles, i.e. sedation and tonification, of Applied Kinesiology through the use of specific acupoints that have an influence on manual muscle tests. Sedation decreases RMS signal in sEMG, whereas tonification increases it. Interfering stimuli from scars were corrected by selective neural therapy.

Chin Med. 2009 May 29;4:9. Moncayo R, Moncayo H. WOMED, Innsbruck, Austria. anmeldung@womed.at

Peter Hawkins is a founder director, and currently President of the European School of Psychotherapy, as well as being on the Faculty of the European School of Integrative Psychotherapy.

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OBJECTIVES: To determine whether massage therapy improves postoperative mood, pain, anxiety, and physiologic measurements; shortens hospital stay; and decreases occurrence of atrial fibrillation. METHODS: Two hundred fifty-two adults undergoing cardiac surgery were randomized to usual postoperative care (n=126) or usual care plus two massages (n=126). Assessments of mood, depression, anxiety, pain, physiologic status, cardiac rhythm, and hospital length of stay were completed. Logistic and linear regressions were performed. RESULTS: Preoperative pain, mood, and affective state scores were positively associated with postoperative scores; however, there were no postoperative differences between groups for any measures (P=.11 to .93). There were no differences in physiologic variables except lower postoperative blood pressure after massage (P = .01). Postoperative atrial fibrillation occurrence (P = .6) and median postoperative hospital length of stay (P = .4) were similar between groups. CONCLUSION: Massage therapy is feasible in cardiac surgical patients; however, it does not yield therapeutic benefit. Nevertheless, it should be a patient-selected and -paid option.

Heart Lung. 2009 Nov-Dec;38(6):480-90. Epub 2009 Jun 28. Albert NM, Gillinov AM, Lytle BW, Feng J, Cwynar R, Blackstone EH. Nursing Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.

In a pilot investigation of reality monitoring in hypnosis, 10 high and 10 low hypnotizable participants were administered a hypnotic suggestion to hallucinate a visual shape on a wall. For half the participants, an image was subtly projected onto the wall at the commencement of the suggestion and then subsequently removed. For the remaining participants, the projected image was initially absent and subsequently projected. Participants completed ratings of belief in the suggestion during hypnosis and also provided subjective reports of the suggestion during a subsequent Experiential Analysis Technique session. High hypnotizable participants who had the projected image introduced at the end of the suggestion provided comparable belief ratings when the image was present and absent. In contrast, highs who had the projected image presented first reported less belief when the image was absent than when it was present. Low hypnotizable participants rated the hallucination more strongly when the image was projected than when it was not projected. These pilot data are discussed in terms of developing a paradigm to objectively index the perceived reality of hypnotically suggested experiences.

Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2004 Apr;52(2):188-97. Bryant RA, Mallard D. School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. r.bryant@unsw.edu.au

Full Title: Biofeedback effectiveness to reduce upper limb muscle activity during computer work is muscle specific and time pressure dependent

Continuous electromyographic (EMG) activity level is considered a risk factor in developing muscle disorders. EMG biofeedback is known to be useful in reducing EMG activity in working muscles during computer work. The purpose was to test the following hypotheses: (1) unilateral biofeedback from trapezius (TRA) can reduce bilateral TRA activity but not extensor digitorum communis (EDC) activity; (2) biofeedback from EDC can reduce activity in EDC but not in TRA; (3) biofeedback is more effective in no time constraint than in the time constraint working condition. Eleven healthy women performed computer work during two different working conditions (time constraint/no time constraint) while receiving biofeedback. Biofeedback was given from right TRA or EDC through two modes (visual/auditory) by the use of EMG or mechanomyography as biofeedback source. During control sessions (no biofeedback), EMG activity was (mean+/-SD): 2.4+/-1.1, 2.5+/-2.1, and 9.1+/-3.1%max-EMGrms for right and left TRA and EDC, respectively. During biofeedback from TRA, activity was reduced in right TRA (1.7+/-1.6%max-EMGrms) and left TRA (1.2+/-2.0%max-EMGrms) compared to control. During biofeedback from EDC, activity in EDC was reduced (8.3+/-3.3%max-EMGrms) compared with control. During time constraint, activity was reduced in right TRA (1.9+/-1.3%max-EMGrms), left TRA (1.5+/-1.5%max-EMGrms), and EDC (8.4+/-3.2%max-EMGrms), during biofeedback compared to control. Conclusion: biofeedback reduced muscle activity in TRA by approximately 30-50% and in EDC by approximately 10% when given from the homologous or bilateral muscle but not from the remote muscle, and was significant in the time constraint condition; while feedback source and presentation mode showed only minor differences in the effect on reducing homologous muscle activity. This implies that biofeedback should be given from the most affected muscle in the occupational setting for targeting relief and prevention of muscle pain most effectively. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

J Electromyogr Kinesiol. 2010 Jul 9. Vedsted P, Søgaard K, Blangsted AK, Madeleine P, Sjøgaard G. Alectia A/S, Sofiendalsvej 9, 9200 Alborg, Denmark.

Acupuncture has been used therapeutically in China for thousands of years and is growing in prominence in Europe and the United States. In a recent review of complementary and alternative medicine use in the US population, an estimated 2.1 million people or 1.1% of the population sought acupuncture care during the past 12 months. Four percent of the US population used acupuncture at any time in their lives. We reviewed 31 different published journal articles, including 23 randomized controlled clinical trials and 8 meta-analysis/systematic reviews. We found evidence of some efficacy and low risk associated with acupuncture in pediatrics. From all the conditions we reviewed, the most extensive research has looked into acupuncture's role in managing postoperative and chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting. Postoperatively, there is far more evidence of acupuncture's efficacy for pediatrics than for children treated with chemotherapy. Acupuncture seems to be most effective in preventing postoperative induced nausea in children. For adults, research shows that acupuncture can inhibit chemotherapy-related acute vomiting, but conclusions about its effects in pediatrics cannot be made on the basis of the available published clinical trials data to date. Besides nausea and vomiting, research conducted in pain has yielded the most convincing results on acupuncture efficacy. Musculoskeletal and cancer-related pain commonly affects children and adults, but unfortunately, mostly adult studies have been conducted thus far. Because the manifestations of pain can be different in children than in adults, data cannot be extrapolated from adult research. Systematic reviews have shown that existing data often lack adequate control groups and sample sizes. Vas et al, Alimi et al, and Mehling et

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Melissa Skirboll C.Ht. is thrilled to be bringing her 5 years of experience to Manhattanfrom L.A where she has been helping her clients to transform their lives, using a variety of techniques to identify their limitations and change them into strengths. She helps her clients to create success, in all aspects of their lives.

Building on her theatre background, she initially focused on performance related issues. The techniques she has developed for actors to overcome stage fright and audition anxiety soon proved to be helpful for anyone with a fear of public speaking. Her life experience as a tutor for the SAT/ACT has helped her to develop a proven method for overcoming test anxiety as well.

Her practice has expanded to include issues ranging from habit control to creating better relationships, from weight control to stress relief. Whether you're interested in improving your golf game or creating more wealth, Melissa will help you to breakthrough your self-imposed limitations and manifest your desires into reality.

For more information visit www.hypnotherapytoday.com.

Full Title: Self-hypnosis relapse prevention training with chronic drug/alcohol users: effects on self-esteem, affect, and relapse

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a self-hypnosis protocol with chronic drug and alcohol patients in increasing self-esteem, improving affect, and preventing relapse against a control, a transtheoretical cognitive-behavioral (TCB), and a stress management (attention-placebo) group. Participants were 261 veterans admitted to Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (SARRTPs). Participants were assessed pre- and postintervention, and at 7-week follow-up. Relapse rates did not significantly differ across the 4 groups at follow-up; 87% of those contacted reported abstinence. At follow-up, the participants in the 3 treatment conditions were asked how often they practiced the intervention materials provided them. Practicing and minimal-practicing participants were compared against the control group for each of the 3 interventions via MANOVAs/ANOVAs. Results revealed a significant Time by Groups interaction for the hypnosis intervention, with individuals who played the self-hypnosis audiotapes "at least 3 to 5 times a week" at 7-week follow-up reporting the highest levels of self-esteem and serenity, and the least anger/impulsivity, in comparison to the minimal-practice and control groups. No significant effects were found for the transtheoretical or stress management interventions. Regression analyses predicted almost two-thirds of the variance of who relapsed and who did not in the hypnosis intervention group. Hypnotic susceptibility predicted who practiced the self-hypnosis audiotapes. The results suggest that hypnosis can be a useful adjunct in helping chronic substance abuse individuals with their reported self-esteem, serenity, and anger/impulsivity.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2004 Apr;46(4):281-97. Pekala RJ, Maurer R, Kumar VK, Elliott NC, Masten E, Moon E, Salinger M. Biofeedback Clinic (116B), Coatesville VA Medical Center, Coatesville, PA 19320-2096, USA. Ronald.Pekala@med.va.gov

Growing bodies of clinical experience and research suggest there are major benefits for patients, physicians, and CAM practitioners with the integration of energy medicine with conventional medical care. Conventional medical practice is excellent for infections, surgically correctable problems, hormonal dysfunctions, and some genetic defects. There are many illnesses for which conventional medicine can offer treatment, with medications and surgical interventions. Side effects of medications may be troublesome, and risks may include fatalities. Energy medicine interventions may complement conventional care and have minimal risks. Patients report high satisfaction with energy medicine interventions perhaps because CAM therapists often offer patients significant amounts of time to talk about their problems. Most energy medicine practitioners are not familiar with conventional medical diagnoses or research methodology. Conventional medical wisdom can inform and enhance energy medicine practice by encouraging further research. It is hoped that the future will bring more collaboration, greater acceptance of integrative care, and greater appreciation of energy medicine.

Med Clin North Am. 2002 Jan;86(1):105-25. Benor DJ. db@WholisticHealingResearch.com

by Suryanarayana Chennapragada

Engaging your mind on the process of breathing calms the mind and relaxes the body. At night it induces sleep. It substitutes sleeping pills. How can you do it? Lie down and close your eyes. Follow these easy steps.

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ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Chiropractic (Greek: done by hand) is a health care profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on general health. There is an emphasis on manual techniques, including joint adjustment and/or manipulation, with a particular focus on joint subluxation (World Health Organization 2005) or mechanical lesion and restoring function. The chiropractor's role in wellness care, prevention and treatment of injury or illness is based on education in anatomy and physiology, nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyle counseling as well as referral to other health practitioners. Depending on education, geographic location, scope of practice, as well as consumer preference, chiropractors may assume the role of primary care for families who are pursuing a more natural and holistic approach to health care for their families. OBJECTIVE: To present a perspective on current management of the paediatric patient by members of the chiropractic profession and to make recommendations as to how the profession can safely and effectively manage the paediatric patient. DISCUSSION: The chiropractic profession holds the responsibility of ethical and safe practice and requires the cultivation and mastery of both an academic foundation and clinical expertise that distinguishes chiropractic from other disciplines.Research into the effectiveness of chiropractic care for paediatric patients has lagged behind that of adult care, but this is being addressed through educational programs where research is now being incorporated into academic tracks to attain advanced chiropractic degrees. CONCLUSION: Studies in the United States show that over the last several decades, chiropractors are the most common complementary and alternative medicine providers visited by children and adolescents. Chiropractors continue to seek integration with other healthcare providers to provide the most appropriate care for their paediatric patients.In the interest of what is best for the paediatric population in the future, collaborative efforts for research into the effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care as an alternative healthcare approach for children should be negotiated and are welcomed.

Chiropr Osteopat. 2010 Jun 2;18:16. Vallone SA, Miller J, Larsdotter A, Barham-Floreani J. Private Practice, Connecticut, USA. svallonedc@aol.com.

Full Title: Evidence of Qi-gong energy and its biological effect on the enhancement of the phagocytic activity of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

In order to test for an effect of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) treated externally with Qi energy ("Qi-treated" PBS) on the phagocytic activity of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), rigorously controlled experiments employing masking and randomized procedures were carried out under independent monitoring. In all experiments, Qi treatment was externally applied under monitoring to newly purchased unopened 100 ml bottles of PBS, and the PMN phagocytic activity was assayed by one experimenter in masked, randomized and monitored conditions using a highly sensitive chemiluminescence method. Phagocytic activity data were obtained in triplicate for each sample and then statistically analyzed. The PBS samples Qi-treated by the Qi-gong master and by one of the Qi-gong trainees showed clear stimulation of PMN phagocytic activity which was significant statistically, and this phenomenon was highly reproducible. Out of 10 experiments by the Qi-gong master, only twice did Qi-treatment fail to influence the PBS. The activity of Qi-treated PBS decayed over days or weeks. Furthermore, it was found that Qi-treated PBS had decreased phagocytic stimulatory activity after microwave treatment, but not after autoclave treatment. We also demonstrated that microwave irradiation and infrared laser pulse irradiation have similar effects on PBS as Qi-treatment. The results obtained in this experiment provide evidence of the existence of Qi energy, its ability to influence an electrolyte solution and its biological effect. Furthermore, microwave or infrared laser pulse treatment was found to partly mimic the Qi-treatment of PBS.

Am J Chin Med. 2001;29(1):1-16. Fukushima M, Kataoka T, Hamada C, Matsumoto M. Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, School of Public Health, Kyoto University, Japan.

Emotional Freedom Technique is a simple acupressure technique for releasing negative feelings.

You feel negative feelings in the body, so you have to go to the body to work on them.

You can release a negative feeling right now with this video. Tapping is very effective on helping with Depression, but bear in mind you may need to do a lot of tapping to become completely happy.

Learn more at www.Tapping.com.

Full Title: Clinical efficacy of kinesiology taping in reducing edema of the lower limbs in patients treated with the ilizarov method--preliminary report

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative edema of predominantly lymphatic origin is a significant hindrance to physiotherapy in patients subjected to limb lengthening by the Ilizarov method. New treatment methods are being sought, and Kinesiology Taping is one of them. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved 24 patients of both sexes subjected to lower limb lengthening using the Ilizarov method who had developed edema of the thigh or crus of the lengthened extremity. The mean age of the patients was 21 years. The patients were randomized into two groups of twelve, which were then subjected to 10 days of standard physiotherapy. The study group was additionally treated with Kinesiology Taping (lymphatic application), while the control group received standard lymphatic drainage. Treatment results were assessed by comparing the linear circumferences of the lower limbs before and after the treatment. RESULTS: The application of Kinesiology Taping in the study group produced a decrease in the circumference of the thigh and crus statistically more significant than that following lymphatic drainage. CONCLUSIONS: 1. Both standard edema-reducing treatment in the form of lymphatic massage and Kinesiology Taping significantly reduced lower limb edema in patients treated by the Ilizarov method. 2. The application of Kinesiology Taping in the study group produced a significantly faster reduction of the edema compared to standard lymphatic massage.

Ortop Traumatol Rehabil. 2009 Jan-Feb;11(1):46-54. Bialoszewski D, Wozniak W, Zarek S. Division of Rehabilitation, Department of Physiotherapy, 2nd Medical Faculty, Medical University of Warsaw. bialoszewski@wum.edu.pl

Kelly Howell is highly acclaimed for her pioneering work in healing and mind expansion. With more than two million audio programs in print, and decades of experience, she is a leader in the field of self help audio.

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Full Title: Massage therapy reduces tension, anxiety, and pain in patients awaiting invasive cardiovascular procedures

Objectives: (1) To assess the efficacy of a 20 minute massage therapy session on pain, anxiety, and tension in patients before an invasive cardiovascular procedure. (2) To assess overall patient satisfaction with the massage therapy. (3) To evaluate the feasibility of integrating massage therapy into preprocedural practices. Experimental pretest-posttest design using random assignment. Medical cardiology progressive care units at a Midwestern Academic Medical Center. Patients (N=130) undergoing invasive cardiovascular procedures. The intervention group received 20 minutes of hands on massage at least 30 minutes before an invasive cardiovascular procedure. Control group patients received standard preprocedural care. Visual analogue scales were used to collect verbal numeric responses measuring pain, anxiety, and tension pre- and postprocedure. The differences between pre- and postprocedure scores were compared between the massage and standard therapy groups using the Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon's test. Scores for pain, anxiety, and tension scores were identified along with an increase in satisfaction for patients who received a 20-minute massage before procedure compared with those receiving standard care. This pilot study showed that massage can be incorporated into medical cardiovascular units' preprocedural practice and adds validity to prior massage studies.

Prog Cardiovasc Nurs. 2009 Dec;24(4):155-61. Wentworth LJ, Briese LJ, Timimi FK, Sanvick CL, Bartel DC, Cutshall SM, Tilbury RT, Lennon R, Bauer BA. Department of Nursing Administration, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. wentworth.laura@mayo.edu

Prior research by the author showed that psychosocial factors distinguished complicated from uncomplicated birth outcome. The purpose of this study was to determine if prenatal hypnosis could facilitate uncomplicated birth. Following a psychosocial assessment, 520 pregnant women in their first or second trimester of pregnancy were randomized to receiving prenatal hypnosis or attention-only groups. The author provided all of the hypnosis in a manner similar to that taught by David Cheek. The goal was to reduce fear of birth and parenthood; to reduce anxiety; to reduce stress; to identify specific fears that might complicate the labor process (addressing them whenever possible); and to prepare women for the experience of labor. The attention-only group was matched to a no-contact comparison group. Women receiving prenatal hypnosis had significantly better outcomes than women who did not. Further assessment suggested that hypnosis worked by preventing negative emotional factors from leading to an complicated birth outcome. Attention only was associated with minimal differences in outcome over the no-contact group. The routine prenatal use of hypnosis could improve obstetric outcome.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2004 Apr;46(4):299-312. Mehl-Madrona LE. Program in Integrative Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, 1249 N. Mountain St., Tucson, AZ 85719, USA. madrona@email.arizona.edu

Full Title: Long-term results of biofeedback treatment for faecal incontinence: a comparative study with untreated controls

AIM: Long-term results of biofeedback for faecal incontinence are controversial. Moreover, its value compared with standard care has been recently questioned. The study aimed to analyse the long-term efficacy of biofeedback therapy for faecal incontinence to formed stool and to compare it with no treatment. METHOD: Seventy-nine patients with faecal incontinence to solid stool were evaluated at baseline and 1, 6, 36 and 60 months after treatment. To compare the long-term results with no treatment, 40 patients initially evaluated but not referred for therapy were used as controls. RESULTS: More than 80% of patients recovered continence or had a reduction in the number of episodes of incontinence greater than 75% at 1, 6, 36 and 60 months, indicating that the success rate of biofeedback was maintained over time. At 60 months, 86% of patients treated with biofeedback were fully continent or had a > 75% reduction in the number of incontinent episodes compared to 26% of the untreated patients (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Biofeedback therapy is effective in patients with faecal incontinence to formed stool compared with no treatment. Overall, clinical improvement is maintained in the long term..

Colorectal Dis. 2010 Aug;12(8):742-9. Epub 2009 Apr 10. Lacima G, Pera M, Amador A, Escaramís G, Piqué JM. Digestive Motility Unit, Digestive Diseases Institut, Hospital Clinic. Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain. glacima@clinic.ub.es

By Coach Cary Bayer

Recently, while doing a Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle, I was stumped by a clue for a four-letter word. The clue was "Grant." I ran through the Rolodex in my mind and came up with answers like award, prize, and so forth. None of them were four letters. Finally, I got the first letter; it was a "C." But that didn't help me either.

Eventually, the light bulb went off in my mind--Eureka. (No, not that endearing term of excitement--it's got six letters.) The answer wasn't a grant of money, it was a Grant of Cary. The irony in this story is that there were only two men who ever made my mother's heart race, and they were Cary Grant, and my father, Sam Bayer. And that's why she named me Cary Bayer.

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Richard was trained at the Essex Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy one of the most respected and prestigious schools in the UK.

Richard concentrates on working with individual clients and his understanding and empathetic manner makes him sought after by clients with a wide range of problems. Richard supports his clinical expertise with many years experience in training and motivation with major UK organizations.

For more information visit www.hypno-health.org.uk.

Intravenous drug users often have many health conditions in addition to their drug addiction, yet may be isolated from conventional sources of care. They have never before been examined for their use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Our purpose was to study the prevalence and predictors of CAM use among persons with a history of intravenous drug use through a cross-sectional survey of intravenous drug users examining their utilization of health services, including CAM therapies. A total of 548 persons with a history of intravenous drug use, recruited from a needle-exchange program and a methadone maintenance clinic, both in Providence, Rhode Island, participated. Overall prevalence of any CAM use in the past 6 months, frequency of use of individual named CAM therapies and domains, and demographic and clinical characteristics associated with CAM users, reasons for CAM use and self-perceived effectiveness of CAM were also measured. Of the 548 participants, 45% reported use of at least one CAM therapy. The top three therapies--religious healing, relaxation techniques, and meditation--were all from the mind-body domain. Having a higher education and lower self-rated health were the two strongest predictors of CAM use, followed by having a regular doctor or clinic, being white and younger. There was a high level of self-perceived effectiveness of CAM therapies (4.1 on a scale of 1-5), and CAM users were likely to use CAM for reasons related to their addiction.

Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2003 May;29(2):401-13. Manheimer E, Anderson BJ, Stein MD. University of Maryland School of Medicine, Center for Integrative Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21207, USA. emanheimer@compmed.umm.edu

Full Title: The efficacy of hypnosis in the reduction of procedural pain and distress in pediatric oncology: a systematic review

Children who suffer from cancer have to endure regular, painful medical procedures that are associated with a considerable degree of psychosocial distress. Hypnosis has been successfully employed in the management of pain and distress in the adult population, but is not well studied in pediatric populations. This review systematically evaluates the systematic research conducted in the field of procedure-related pain management in pediatric oncology within the context of a nationally agreed framework for the assessment of research evidence. It is concluded that there is not currently enough robust research evidence to recommend that hypnosis should form part of best practice guidelines for the management of procedure-related pain in pediatric oncology. However, there is sufficient evidence to justify larger-scale, appropriately controlled studies. A number of recommendations are made regarding future research.

J Dev Behav Pediatr. 2004 Jun;25(3):207-13. Wild MR, Espie CA. Section of Psychological Medicine, University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK. m.wild@clinmed.gla.ac.uk

Critical phenomena offer an attractive new theoretical resource for biophysics. Physical instabilities result in fluctuations, the quantum properties of which can be applied to regulatory control mechanisms in living organisms with promising results. Many aspects of energy medicine can be scientifically modeled, in agreement with previous theoretical ideas and speculation, such as the existence of macroscopic quantum coherence in living systems. Light is shed on areas of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) such as Ayurveda, naturopathy, and the nature and action of potentized medicines in homeopathy and other aspects of vibrational medicine.

J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Feb;10(1):83-6. Hankey A. alexhank@dircon.co.uk

by Suryanarayana Chennapragada

I am sharing a proven technique called 'Focusing on breathing' to gradually get over the urge for smoking, without needing any other aids.

How can I do it? Try the following modes and use whatever works for you. Keep eyes closed whenever possible. Don't try to change the pattern of breathing except for the '911 mode'. Let the pattern change on its own.

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Full Title: The evidence base for chiropractic treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in children and adolescents: The emperor's new suit?

ABSTRACT: Five to ten percent of chiropractic patients are children and adolescents. Most of these consult because of spinal pain, or other musculoskeletal complaints. These musculoskeletal disorders in early life not only affect the quality of children's lives, but also seem to have an impact on adult musculoskeletal health. Thus, this is an important part of the chiropractors' scope of practice, and the objective of this review is to assess the evidence base for manual treatment of musculoskeletal disorders in children and adolescents.Randomized, quasi-randomized and non-randomized clinical studies were included if they investigated the effect of manual therapy on musculoskeletal disorders in children and/or adolescents. The MEDLINE and MANTIS databases were searched, and studies published in English, Danish, Swedish or Norwegian were included.Only three studies were identified that in some way attempted to look at the effectiveness of manual therapy for children or adolescents with spinal problems, and none of these was a randomized controlled clinical trial. As for the rest of the musculoskeletal system, only one study of temporomandibular disorder was identified.With this review, we have detected a paradox within the chiropractic profession: Although the major reason for pediatric patients to attend a chiropractor is spinal pain, no adequate studies have been performed in this area. It is time for the chiropractic profession to take responsibility and systematically investigate the efficiency of joint manipulation of problems relating to the developing musculoskeletal system.

Chiropr Osteopat. 2010 Jun 2;18:15. Hestbaek L, Stochkendahl MJ. Nordic Institute of Chiropractic and Clinical Biomechanics, Forskerparken 10, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark. l.hestbaek@nikkb.dk.11

BACKGROUND: Over the last decade several studies have shown that patients with coronary artery disease even above the age of 70 can be successfully treated with advanced medical and surgical methods. Unfortunately, rehabilitation programmes for this group are rarely offered. It is important to develop forms of rehabilitation that are adapted to the specific needs of this increasing group of elderly patients. The aim of this randomized study was to investigate whether the combination of Qi Gong and group discussions would increase physical ability for elderly patients > or =73 years with coronary artery disease. METHODS: A total of 95 patients (66 men and 29 women), with documented coronary artery disease, were randomized to an intervention group (n=48) mean age 77+/-3 (73-82) or to a control group (n=47) mean age 78+/-3 (73-84). The intervention groups met weekly over 3 months. The control group got usual care. Physical ability was assessed at baseline and after the intervention. RESULTS: Patients in the intervention group increased their self-estimated level of physical activity (P=0.011), and their performance in the one-leg stance test for the right leg (P=0.029), co-ordination (P=0.021) and the box-climbing test for right leg (P=0.035). CONCLUSION: A combination of Qi Gong and group discussions appear to be a promising rehabilitation for elderly cardiac patients in terms of improving self-reported physical activity, balance and co-ordination. This could be an option for elderly patients who do not participate in the ordinary cardiac rehabilitation.

Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2005 Feb;12(1):5-11. Stenlund T, Lindström B, Granlund M, Burell G. Heart Centre, University Hospital, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden. therese.stenlund@vll.se

Bulimia is an oppressive and dibilitating disease. Here you can see an unusual apporach to intervening in the binge purge cycle.

For more information visit www.vancouverhypnotherapy.org/bn.html and www.bulimiagirls.com.

Full Title: The First Historical Movements of Kinesiology: Scientification in the Borderline between Physical Culture and Medicine around 1850

The kinesiology concept is used worldwide and by many different professional groups with scientific aspirations. Yet nobody seems to know much about where it comes from and why it came into existence. This article traces the origins of the concept back to one of Sweden's greatest cultural exports of the nineteenth century - Swedish gymnastics - and the efforts of especially Swedish physiotherapists and physical educators to spread its scientific doctrines throughout the world. Primarily their goal was to convert the representatives of conventional medicine (pharmacology) into a more mechanical mode of understanding and curing illness (physiotherapy). While following in the footsteps of one physiotherapist/physical educator -'the father of kinesiology'- and examining the ideological and historical conditions his so-called 'mission' was ruled by, the social construction of knowledge and science is made visible in a way seldom highlighted in the history of medicine and physical education.

nt J Hist Sport. 2010;27(11):1892-1919. Ottosson A. Department of History, Gothenburg University.

Bob Griswold

Bob Griswold is internationally recognized as a long-time leader in the field of human potential. He founded Effective Learning Systems, Inc. in 1972, and has personally taught over fifty thousand people techniques for relaxation, memory, stress management, controlling habits, goal achievement and self-esteem through seminars conducted for corporations, government agencies, and the general public.

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Full Title: Depression, mood, stress, and Th1/Th2 immune balance in primary breast cancer patients undergoing classical massage therapy

PURPOSE: Cancer patients frequently suffer from psychological comorbidities such as depression and elevated stress. Previous studies could demonstrate that cancer patients benefit from massage therapy on the physical and psychological level. This pilot study investigates the effects of massage on depression, mood, perceived stress, and the Th1/Th2 ratio in breast cancer patients. METHODS: Thirty-four breast cancer patients were randomly assigned to a massage group (n = 17) and a control group (n = 17). Patients of the massage group received two 30-min classical massages per week for 5 weeks. At baseline, at the end of the intervention period, and 6 weeks after the end of intervention, patients of both groups completed the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), and the Berlin Mood Questionnaire (BFS) and blood was withdrawn for determining cytokine concentrations and the Th1/Th2 ratio. RESULTS: Twenty-nine patients were included in the statistical analysis. Depression (PHQ) and anxious depression (BSF) were significantly reduced immediately after massage compared to the control group. Stress (PSQ) and elevated mood (BSF) did not show significant alterations after massage therapy. Changes of cytokine concentrations and Th1/Th2 ratio were insignificant as well, although there was a slight shift towards Th1 in the massage group over time. CONCLUSIONS: Massage therapy is an efficient treatment for reducing depression in breast cancer patients. Insignificant results concerning immunological parameters, stress, and mood indicate that further research is needed to determine psychological and immunological changes under massage therapy.

Support Care Cancer. 2010 Jul 20. Krohn M, Listing M, Tjahjono G, Reisshauer A, Peters E, Klapp BF, Rauchfuss M. Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany, michaela.krohn@charite.de.

Lessons learned from a somatic treatment session that significantly reduced severe chronic hip and leg pain

by Erik Peper, PhD, and Annette Booiman, MRT

After experiencing your guided exercises on the gym floor, I slept comfortably and without any pain for the first time in four years. This morning when I went grocery shopping, I could walk straight with a normal stride and again without pain. I feel great. --Paul Maassen

The rapid successful resolution of pain occurred as the result of a spontaneous teaching moment with a person in the gym. This success is not just a case of magical/spontaneous healing but the integration of multiple factors that promote healing and underlie somatic awareness practices and successful biofeedback training. In this clinical note, we describe how the educational treatment began, the educational/clinical coaching sequence, and factors that therapists may want to consider in their treatment.

To read the full article, click here.

Full Title: An argument for a qualitative research approach to hypnotic experiencing and perceptually oriented hypnosis

An argument for the significance of a qualitative research approach to hypnotic experiencing and a perceptually oriented view of hypnosis is presented with hypnosis framed in phenomenological, humanistic, and perceptual terms. An outline of threads of thought in Popper's writings are consistent with such a perspective. Qualitative approaches are noted and support for theoretical discussions leading to deeper understanding of issues of hypnotic experiencing, such as unconscious processes, nonlinear experiences, and researchers' countertransference are examined. Some limitations of current quantitative approaches to examining hypnotic experiencing and myths about qualitative research are discussed.

Psychol Rep. 2004 Jun;94(3 Pt 1):955-66. Woodard FJ. Woodard Hypnosis and Research, Inc., Milford, New Hampshire, USA.

Full Title: First non-contingent respiratory biofeedback placebo versus contingent biofeedback in patients with chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial

Previous studies reported that respiratory feedback (RFB) aids in alleviating chronic pain. However, to date, this adjunct treatment has not been rigorously tested against non-contingent (placebo) feedback. Forty-two patients with chronic low back pain were randomized to either RFB or non-contingent RFB. Both groups performed a daily 30-min home training for 15 consecutive days. A respiratory associated relaxation index (RI) was measured. Pain levels and a somatosensory profile were assessed before and after intervention. Additionally, pain levels were assessed 3 months after the end of intervention. Secondary outcome parameters included daily functioning, psychopathology, and suggestibility. T-tests showed higher and significant pain reductions for RFB, compared to non-contingent RFB. Between-group comparisons reached no significance. However, changes were more pronounced in the RFB condition, which was also true for the course of the RI and the psychopathological scores. This is the first study using a non-contingent respiratory placebo feedback in a randomized, controlled design. Within this design previous positive findings of symptom reductions in patients treated with RFB could partially replicated. Nonetheless, tendencies suggest that contingent feedback patients compared to placebo patients profit more from RFB in the long run regarding reduction of chronic pain and psychological distress.

Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback. 2010 Sep;35(3):207-17. Kapitza KP, Passie T, Bernateck M, Karst M. Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Clinic, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.

BACKGROUND: A majority of people in the United States use alternative or complementary therapy at some point in their lives, and acupuncture is among the most frequently used modalities. Many United States medical schools offer courses in alternative medicine, and a growing number of insurers offer coverage for alternative therapies. This paper critically reviews our current knowledge about the safety and efficacy of acupuncture for neurologic conditions. REVIEW SUMMARY: Acupuncture is a safe procedure when performed by trained professionals. Complications from acupuncture are rare and mainly related to negligence of sterile technique. Studies of the therapeutic value of acupuncture are fraught with challenging methodologic problems, including the choice of a placebo, a suitable control treatment, and the technique of stimulation applied. Clinical trials of the use of acupuncture for pain syndromes (headache, neck, and back pain), stroke rehabilitation, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and substance abuse are reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the current literature, no definitive recommendation can be made regarding the efficacy of acupuncture for common pain syndromes including headache, and neck and back pain. Better quality clinical trials fail to demonstrate efficacy for the use of acupuncture as part of a rehabilitation program following stroke or as a treatment for drug addiction. Acupuncture may have a role in the treatment of sleep disturbance associated with Parkinson's disease but was not efficacious for the primary symptoms of either Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis. In light of increasing public interest and use of alternative therapies, this review may be helpful in promoting more discussion between patients and physicians about the use of acupuncture.

Neurologist. 2003 May;9(3):137-48. Rabinstein AA, Shulman LM. Department of Neurology, University of Miami School of Medicine, Florida, USA.

Erik Peper, Ph.D. is an international authority on biofeedback and self-regulation. He is Professor and Co-Director of the Institute for Holistic Healing Studies, Department of Health Education. He is President of the Biofeedback Foundation of Europe (2005) and past President of the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback.

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by Joyce-Anne Locking

Being unhappy, depressed, lazy, sluggish, joyful, ambitious or exuberant are all examples of habit. Whatever habits you find yourself automatically repeating each day can be changed. Pay attention to the things you are focusing on daily and ask yourself if these things are serving your purpose today.

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