MASSASGE THERAPY VS. CHIROPRACTICTIC THERAPY

If you are anything like me, you probably prefer staying away from providers of conventional Western medicine as much as possible and I cannot say that I blame you. Although I have full medical coverage for that you never know when you might need it time of my life, I have not seen any of my Blue Cross doctors in well over ten years, and I hope to continue not seeing them for the rest of my life. Please do not miss understand me and think that I am some sort of superhuman creature who never gets ill. I do have my weak moments of pain and sniffles just like everyone else, or at least everyone else who takes good care of him or herself. So, when my body seems to need a boost, I visit one of my two favorite practitioners of alternative medicine; my massage therapist or my chiropractor.

I know that it all sounds very simple and straight forward but it is, in fact, somewhat challenging at times, because I do not always know which one of these wonderful professional to seek out. So, I often first opt to visit my chiropractor for a good therapeutic session of adjusting and aligning my skeletal structure and then, as an extra bonus to me and my one and only body, I also make an appointment with my massage therapist for some hefty digging and rubbing. Between the two of them, I come out feeling like a million bucks although my finances are sadly depleted. I figure that we, my body and I, are worth it.

Now, you might ask and rightfully so, What is the difference between a massage therapy and chiropractic therapy? Well, I will be happy to tell you:

* Chiropractic Therapy.
– For the most part, chiropractic therapy focuses on the hard tissues such as the spine and other joints for adjusting and realignment. Chiropractors have some training in massage techniques but that is never their first and foremost priority.
– Chiropractors are authorized to make medical diagnosis, order x-rays or blood works.
– Chiropractors cannot prescribe conventional medications but they can sell supplements or homeopathic remedies.
– Chiropractors do not need medical referrals to perform their work.

* Massage Therapy.
– Massage therapists perform wonderful work on the soft body tissues such as the muscles, tendons and ligaments but they have not been trained nor are they licensed to adjust the spine or any other joints.
– Massage therapists may not legally make medical diagnosis, order x-rays or any blood work.
– Massage therapists are not permitted to dispense medications of Western medicine but they can and do provide or recommend alternative herbal remedies.
– Massage Therapists do not required referrals from anyone to conduct their massage sessions.

A highly acclaimed national non-profit magazine recently conducted a study in which more than 34,000 participants in the United States were asked to rate which alternative treatments worked best for their two biggest health problems for the past two years and the overwhelming majority voted just as I would have; for deep tissue massage therapy and chiropractic therapy in equal measures for such conditions as back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, respiratory problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression, insomnia and prostate problems.

Of course, as far as alternative medicine is concerned, one should not discount acupuncture and reflexology for they too are beneficial in their own very special ways.

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Facts About Sinus Infections

Even if you have a personal doctor who attends to all your medical needs, its not a guarantee that he or she can cure your sinus infections. The fact is, many doctors dont know the newest treatments for sinus infections. If youre having a very hard time in dealing with your health problem, you will learn a lot in just a few minutes so keep reading.

Acupuncture, acupressure, antibiotics, ENT doctors, and chiropractors wont be able to help you with your sinus infections. Not many individuals are open to acupuncture, especially those who are afraid of needles. If you dont want to end up as a pin cushion, this is not an excellent choice but it can help in other health problems like back pains, but not sinus infections.

Acupressure is also good but it cant help you but if you have hiccups, it may help a lot. In short term treatments, antibiotics can deal with your sinus infections but most of the time, the symptoms return within a week. ENT doctors may seem like a good choice but oftentimes, they would give the same antibiotics which only work for a short period.

Dont even think of consulting a chiropractor if you want to relieve the pressure and pain of your sinus infections because it wont help. These individuals can help you with other health concerns but not sinus infections.

If you want to stop the discomfort and pain brought about by your sinus infection, these things can help you effectively:

1.You should be aware that sinus infections are primarily caused by fungus. Most individuals suffering from this health problem is carrying a yeast or fungal infection. You will not be able to get rid of the infection if the fungus is still there. Antibiotics cant remove the fungus but it can encourage the growth of the fungal infection.

2.Get yourself a personal Neti pot. You need to use this whenever youre rinsing out the sinuses. Some online stores sell this little strange pot, so look for it online.

3.Apple cider vinegar if you feel like a sinus infection is about to burst up, you can put 1 tsp of the vinegar on your Neti pot. The taste is a bit nasty and you will feel a burning sensation but it only means that it is working.

4.Sea salts make a saline solution in your Neti pot by putting the right amount of sea salts in it.

5.Take garlic capsule because it can change the bodys chemistry and help fight the sinus infections.

You dont have to rely entirely on your doctor if you want to fight your sinus infection. But this doesnt mean that you can disregard your doctor from now on. You can even share the information with your doctor if you like. Keep in mind that antibiotics wont help in getting rid of the fungus and it will only make your condition worse.

Try the five things mentioned earlier especially if youre having a very hard time in dealing with your sinus infections. You dont have to spend lots of money for the antibiotics that dont work. Start shopping for your very own Neti pot online now. You will be using it more often every time you need to prepare a solution for the infection of your sinus.

Relief From Arthritis: A Who’s Who in Arthritis Treatment for

Relief From Arthritis: A Who’s Who in Arthritis Treatment for Newly Diagnosed Patients
John Robben

Newly diagnosed arthritis patients can easily become overwhelmed
with the myriad of information, treatment options, help and
professionals available to them, while still trying to find
relief from their disease. In an effort to demystify who does
what, this article will point out each of the people you’ll most
likely be interacting with during your arthritis treatment and
explain their role in helping you find relief from arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Acupuncturist

Considered foreign to most Americans, acupuncture has become a
beacon in the arthritis treatment sphere. By placing small,
sterile needles into very specific points on the body,
acupuncture is said to relieve stress, increase endorphins and
remove blockages that are pain-causing, thus providing relief
from arthritis. For a list of fully trained osteopaths who are
also acupuncturists, visit the American Academy of Medical
Acupuncture for more information.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Chiropractor

Chiropractors are the hands-on, trained manipulators that
actually realign the joints, muscles and tendons that may be out
of whack. Although they are not medical doctors, chiropractors
may refer their findings to your family doctor or rheumatologist
for further investigation. The American Chiropractic Association
can give you a better idea as to what exact these professionals
can do to help you find relief from arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Massage Therapist (LMT,
CMT)

Relief from arthritis isn’t only found in the bottom of a
medicine bottle or at the hands of a surgeon; many arthritis
treatment plans strongly suggest a massage therapist as an aide
to reduce muscle tension or to increase one’s range of motion.
However, not all massage therapists are trained the same: check
with the American Massage Therapy Association for certified
arthritis treatment specialists in your area.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Orthopaedic Surgeon (MD)

Specializing in the evaluation and treatment of the bones,
joints and tissues, orthopedic surgeons usually work on a
referral-based system from your family doctor. These types of
doctors will determine whether or not your arthritis treatment
will focus on surgery, non-surgical options or a combination
thereof. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons can answer
most of your general questions about surgical arthritis
treatment options that can bring relief from arthritis symptoms.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Physical Therapist

Sometimes known as occupational therapists as well, physical
therapists help with the daily management of the disease by
showing patients practical, hands on tactics to find relief from
arthritis. This can include heat/cold therapy, assistive
techniques (different ways of doing the same thing so that there
is less pain but with no reduction of mobility), introducing
tools that can help with day-to-day living and exercises that
increase flexibility and mobility. Contact the American Physical
Therapy Association for more information.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Rheumatologist (MD)

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of
muscle and skeletal problems, such as lupus, osteoporosis and
gout. Rheumatologists work closely with your family doctor to
ensure your arthritis treatment is specific and specialized. The
American College of Rheumatology provides “professional
education” to its members and publishes several journals related
to arthritis treatment and the relief from arthritis symptoms.

About the author:
John Robben is the owner/operator of Ultimate Water Massage
(est. 2000), a Washington-based company that offers over 2000
products to ease your pain and your life. Visit for more
information, tools, supplies and tips for relief from arthritis
pain at http://www.ultimatewatermassage.com/.

Natural Relief From Arthritis Pain Using Alternatives To Medications

Natural Relief From Arthritis Pain Using Alternatives To Medications
Mike Herman

For individuals suffering from arthritis, the simplest tasks can
be both difficult and painful.

This condition inflames the tissues around the joint, creating
pain and stiffness that can limit both your mobility and your
daily life.

Instead of allowing the pain to rule your life and abandon your
favorite activities and hobbies, look to natural relief from
arthritis pain by using alternatives, including exercise and
Eastern practices such as acupuncture.

This alternative of finding natural relief from arthritis pain
is excellent for individuals who are interested in using methods
instead of medications or who are unable to take medications due
to drug interactions.

If you are interested in seeking natural relief from arthritis
pain and stiffness, speak with your primary healthcare provider.

He or she will be able to offer you a variety of options that
may be able to regain your mobility and lessen your pain.

A Chiropractor

Consider seeking the help of a licensed chiropractor who may be
able to help your condition along with special techniques,
including a spine alignment for individuals who suffer from
chronic back or neck pain due to arthritis.

Additionally, look to other cultures for different techniques in
controlling your condition, including popular activities like
Tai Chi, Pilates, and even acupuncture.

Another source of finding great activities that will enable you
to control and monitor your pain and stiffness is your local
library.

Explore different treatment options by checking out the latest
information in medical journals.

Also check out chiropractor publications in order to determine
what new or renewed treatment options are available to you.

About the author:
Learn More and Get the Type of Alternative Arthritis Pain Reliever is
Right for You
.