Blocking Newly Identified Molecule May Improve And Speed Recovery From Stroke

Blocking Newly Identified Molecule May Improve And Speed Recovery From Stroke

Researchers at UCLA have identified a novel molecule in the brain that, after stroke, blocks the formation of new connections between neurons. As a result, it limits the brain's recovery. In a mouse model, the researchers showed that blocking this molecule - called ephrin-A5 - induces axonal sprouting, that is, the growth of new connections between the brain's neurons, or cells, and as a result promotes functional recovery.

If duplicated in humans, the identification of this molecule could pave the way for a more rapid recovery from stroke and may allow a synergy with existing treatments, such as physical therapy.

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability because of the brain's limited capacity for repair. An important process in recovery after stroke may be in the formation of new connections, termed axonal sprouting. The adult brain inhibits axonal sprouting and the formation of these connections. In previous work the researchers found, paradoxically, that the brain sends mixed signals after a stroke - activating molecules that both stimulate and inhibit axonal sprouting. In this present work, the researchers have identified the effect of one molecule that inhibits axonal sprouting and determined the new connections in the brain that are necessary to form for recovery.

The researchers also developed a new tissue bioengineering approach for delivering drugs to the brain after stroke. This approach uses a biopolymer hydrogel, or a gel of naturally occurring brain proteins, to release neural repair molecules directly to the target region for recovery in stroke - the tissue adjacent to the center of the stroke.

Last, the paper also shows that the more behavioral activity after stroke, such as the amount an impaired limb is used, the more new connections are directly stimulated to form in the injured brain. This direct link between movement patterns, like those that occur in neurorehabilitation, and the formation of new brain connections, provides a biological mechanism for the effects of some forms of physical therapy after stroke.

Iron Bracelets - Do They Work?

Recently we came across this question and decided it would be best to post some more information regarding this. This is what we were asked.

Q.

I recently came across a new kind of sports enhancement bracelet. Apparently it emits positive ions that are good for you. The bracelet is also a watch. There are credible scientific studies on positive ion therapy and apparently positive ions are good for you. They are used to treat seasonal affective disorder (although the result of the study does go on to cast doubt about its findings).

The question is whether it is possible for positive ions to affect your good health and if so whether a bracelet can deliver enough positive ions to have any effect at all. It would also be beneficial if you have any links to medical studies on these devices.

So here is the answer we provided with a little more information.

A.

Related questions: Do those hologram bracelets do anything at all? and also Has electromagnetic therapy been proven effective?

The only FDA approved study that has any claims for the benefits of ions is for the use of air filters. Any other claims are beyond the scope of any studies, and rely on the gullibility of customers. The fact that "Lithium Ion" batteries exist may add confusion for the consumers, but is a totally different thing. There are no credible studies on these bracelets, so you will not find any links backing up their claims. And see the bolded quote below. The Web MD article that the company used as a "reference" again refers to machines that actually expend electricity to generate negative ions in the air. And as the article itself sates, in relation to relieving depression, or having added benefits against allergies:

It's too early to tell for sure

But again, keep in mind that machines are required for this process, not a plastic bracelet with a hologram on it.

This is an excellent opportunity to practise grass roots scepticism. Ask yourself: By what mechanism is this supposed to work? How does the proposed mechanism align with what we know about science, biology, physics, etc.? Also, you may be interested to know that in some countries, Power Balance must state that they have no actual scientific backing for their claims. The Placebo band is just as effective, and much cheaper.

What sort of demo was done at the expo? Was it Applied Kinesiology by any chance? That is a well known bit of deliberate deception.

A quote from the first link:

Power Balance bracelets promise to improve balance, strength and flexibility and feature some lofty endorsers: Shaquille O’Neal, Drew Bree's and Nicole Branagh, an Olympian from the University of Minnesota. Yet the maker of the $30 bracelets admitted this week that there’s no scientific evidence that the things actually work.

The producers of Power Balance bracelets have sold them by the millions around the globe. They adorn the celebrity wrists of Robert de Niro and Kate Middleton, among others. The hologram-embedded rubbery bracelets “work with your body’s natural energy field” in ways similar to “concepts behind many Eastern philosophies,” the Power Balance website explains.

These claims got the attention of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, which compelled Power Balance to issue a letter that was published in various media outlets Down Under.

“We admit that there is no credible scientific evidence that supports our claims,” the company wrote. “Therefore we engaged in misleading conduct.”

Also, while not a strict debunking of the exact device you link to, I found this interesting write up at JREF. I think the quackwatch link may provide you with additional information.

How to Debunk Biomagnet Therapy in Less Than a Minute

Written by Brandon Peterson
Wednesday, 17 March 2010 10:32

I recently had the opportunity to attend The Amaz!ng Adventure 5. While at Grand Turks, our final port, I was wandering through the duty-free shop looking for deals on liquor (Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel for $39!) when I happened upon a tableful of woo. Seeing as I was a medical student on a skeptical cruise, I had to stop and have my wife help make this video.

In my off-the-cuff video, I didn’t have the opportunity to mention the lack of scientific evidence for their claims. Even if the magnetic field did penetrate the skin, it still would not stimulate blood flow because the amount of iron in blood is far too small. If blood did have a strong magnetic attraction, your body would explode in an MRI (which would be cool, I admit).

I also didn’t have time to discuss the clinical trials that have been performed to evaluate efficacy. As usual with CAM research, earlier poor quality studies were weakly positive (1,2), while more recent high quality studies and meta-analyses are definitively negative (3,4,5).

I also forgot to mention the numerous court rulings in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s against companies making false claims about these products. This issue is discussed extensively on Quackwatch for those interested (6). In a nutshell, companies that fraudulently claimed to treat specific illnesses (arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, migraines, etc.) were sued. Now, they use nebulous phrases such as “support the healing process” or “restore natural energy.” You know, phrases that have not been evaluated by the Federal Drug Administration and are not designed to diagnose, treat or blah blah blah.

In short, magnet therapy is a great case study of CAM. The lack of scientific plausibility, the progression of the medical literature, and the FDA Miranda Rights statement are all characteristic of CAM. And if a lowly medical student can debunk it is less than a minute, how good can it really be?

1. Harlow T, Greaves C, White A, et al. Randomised controlled trial of magnetic bracelets for relieving pain in osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. BMJ 2004; 329:1450-1454

2. Vallbona C, Hazelwood CF, Jurida G. Response of pain to static magnetic fields in postpolio patients: A double-blind pilot study. Archives of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine 1997; 78:1200-1203.

3. Winemiller MH and others. Effect of magnetic vs sham-magnetic insoles on plantar heel pain: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA2003; 290:1474-1478.

4. Pittler MH. Static magnets for reducing pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials. CMAJ 2007; 177(7): 736-42.

5. Cepeda MS, Carr DB, Sarquis T, et al. Static magnetic therapy does not decrease pain or opioid requirements: a randomized double blind trial. Anesth Analg 2007; 104. 290-294.

6. Barrett S. Magnet therapy: a skeptical view. Accessed March 15, 2010. Available at http://www.quackwatch.org/04ConsumerEducation/QA/magnet.html

I will note that there are things that electromagnetic fields can do to the human body. In particular the neural effects if placed about the head (see God Helmet). However, the main thing to do when dealing with claims like this is to ask yourself: By what mechanism is this device claiming to work? How does this align with what we know about biology, chemistry, physics, etc.? Does the claimant use language that would be high on the crankpot index?

If you are starting to see a trend here, that is because there is one. There is no known mechanism for these things to work, and their claims are well beyond what the science would indicate.

Manual therapy

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

Jump to: navigation, search

 

See also: Bodywork (alternative medicine)

 

Manual therapy, manipulative therapy, or manual & manipulative therapy is a physical treatment primarily used by physiotherapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, and osteopaths to treat musculoskeletal pain and disability; it most commonly includes kneading and manipulation of muscles, joint mobilization and joint manipulation.[1]

 

Definitions

Manual therapy may be defined differently (according to the profession describing it for legal purposes) to state what is permitted within a practitioners scope of practice. Within the physical therapy profession, manual therapy is defined as a clinical approach utilizing skilled, specific hands-on techniques, including but not limited to manipulation/mobilization, used by the physical therapist to diagnose and treat soft tissues and joint structures for the purpose of modulating pain; increasing range of motion (ROM); reducing or eliminating soft tissue inflammation; inducing relaxation; improving contractile and non-contractile tissue repair, extensibility, and/or stability; facilitating movement; and improving function.

A consensus study of US chiropractors [2] defined manual therapy as "Procedures by which the hands directly contact the body to treat the articulations and/or soft tissues."

Alternatively, Korr (1978) described manual therapy as the "Application of an accurately determined and specifically directed manual force to the body, in order to improve mobility in areas that are restricted; in joints, in connective tissues or in skeletal muscles."

Use

In Western Europe, North America and Australasia, manual therapy is usually practiced by members of specific health care professions (e.g. Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Osteopathic Physicians, Physiotherapists/Physical Therapists, and Physiatrists).[1] However, some lay practitioners (not members of a structured profession), such as bonesetters also provide some forms of manual therapy.

A survey released in May 2004 by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine focused on who used complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), what was used, and why it was used in the United States by adults age 18 years and over during 2002. According to this recent survey, manipulative therapy was the 3rd most commonly used NCCAM classification of CAM categories (10.9%) in the United States during 2002 ([1] table 4 on page 10) when all use of prayer was excluded. Consistent with previous studies, this study found that the majority of individuals (i.e., 54.9%) used CAM in conjunction with conventional medicine (page 6)

Information

A number of professional peer-reviewed journals specialize in the dissemination of information associated with manual therapy. The Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy, Manual Therapy, and the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics are PubMed indexed journals that have provided readers with useful research on manual therapy for over 15 years. Peer reviewed information has improved the quality of information that is provided to practicing clinicians and has dispelled a number of myths commonly associated with manual therapy.

 

Styles of manual therapy

There are many different styles of manual therapy. It is a fundamental feature of ayurvedic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and some forms of New Age alternative medicine as well as being used by mainstream medical practitioners. In one form or another it is probably as old as human culture itself and is a feature to some degree of therapeutic interactions in traditional cultures around the world.

 

• Acupressure
• Anma
• Body work (alternative medicine)
• Bone setting
• Bowen Technique
• Chiropractic
• Cranio-sacral therapy
• Dorn method
• Joint manipulation
• Joint mobilization
• Spinal manipulation
• Spinal mobilization
• Massage therapy
• Manual lymphatic drainage
• Medical acupuncture
• Muscle energy technique
• Myofascial release(MFR)
  • Naprapathy
  • Osteopathic manipulative medicine
  • Polarity therapy
  • Rolfing Structural Integration
  • Seitai
  • Sotai
  • Shiatsu
  • Traction
  • Tui na

what is whiplash?

What Is Whiplash?

whip·lash

Web definitions

◦   an injury to the neck (the cervical vertebrae) resulting from rapid acceleration or deceleration (as in an automobile accident)

Whiplash is a term that describes injury to the neck that occurs as a result of a motor vehicle or car accident. The most common type of car accident is the rear impact, and most typically, the occupant in the vehicle that gets "rear-ended" (hit from behind) is at the greatest risk of injury, including whiplash.

What Is Now Known about Whiplash

Until recently, the reason for the extent of whiplash injuries was poorly understood. In addition, due to the legal and insurance issues, the veracity of complaints of neck pain and other symptoms by people who suffer from whiplash is commonly viewed as suspect.

However, recent research has helped clarify why occupants struck from behind experience more extensive whiplash injuries than those in other types of crashes. This new information is important for the physician treating whiplash pain, as it impacts the physician’s case management strategy.

Related Whiplash Symptoms/Conditions

Whiplash injuries can be quite complex and may include a variety of related problems, such as:

Joint dysfunction. As a result of the whiplash, one of the joints in the spine or limbs may lose its normal resiliency and shock absorption (referred to as the joint play), possibly leading to restricted range of movement and pain.

Disc herniation. A whiplash accident may injure the discs between the vertebrae, lead to small tears and cause the inner core of the disc to extrude through its outer core. If the disc's inner core comes in contact with and irritates a nearby spinal nerve root, a herniated disc occurs, with symptoms possibly including sharp, shooting pain down the arm and even neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.

Faulty movement patterns. It is believed that the nervous system may change the way in which it controls the coordinated function of muscles as a result of a barrage of intense pain signals from the whiplash injury.

Chronic pain. While often resulting in minor muscle sprains and strains that heal with time, more severe whiplash injuries may produce neck pain and other symptoms that are persistent and long lasting (chronic).

Cognitive and higher center dysfunction. In some instances, whiplash may affect the patient's mental functioning, possibly leading to difficulties concentrating, as just one example.

Can you lend a helping hand?

It looks like our "Physiotherapy and Back Pain" is one of our most popular post so far. Twenty seven views and counting. We've even been +1. It's all very exciting.
There is nothing better then knowing that a blog you manage is helping others get the knowledge they are searching for.
Now its time for us to ask you for your help, we want to know what you would like to know about physiotherapy. Whether it be about Physiotherapy, about our physiotherapist we have here at Therapyworks or about our company itself.
We want to hear from you. You are the most important people to us here at Therapyworks and we strive to make sure you are 100% happy with the information we provide.
So its all on you.
Give us a comment below telling us what it is we can do to help you.


Therapyworks

x

Acupuncture in Physiotherapy

Background

Acupuncture may be offered to you as part of your rehabilitation and pain management programme. Acupuncture is one of a number of different types of treatment that the physiotherapist can offer and there is good evidence for its effectiveness. Often a physiotherapist will use acupuncture alongside treatments such as exercise, joint manipulation/mobilisation and general rehabilitation.
Acupuncture is viewed by physiotherapists as a complementary rather than an alternative therapy

What is Acupuncture?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture (which can be traced back as far as 1000BC) developed out of a concept of using needles inserted into the body as a means of balancing the movement and level of 'Qi' (energy life force) within the body – an imbalance of Qi leading to disease, pain or disability.
Recent research is now supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture, particularly in the management of pain, suggesting that it is effective in the treatment of low back pain, neck pain, and knee/hip osteoarthritis.
Acupuncture combined with physiotherapy is now widely accepted within the NHS and private practice.

When Should it Not Be Used?

There are certain circumstances where acupuncture should not be used.

•  If you have a known metal allergy, specifically stainless steel

•  If you have a needle phobia

•  If you have a known infection in the area to be needled

When Should it Be Used With Caution?

You should also inform your physiotherapist if you:

•  Have haemophilia

•  You are pregnant or trying to conceive

•  Suffer from epilepsy

•  Have a deficient/weakened immune system

•  Have a heart pace maker

•  Are taking anticoagulation (blood thinning medication)

•  Are Diabetic

These conditions do not exclude you from having acupuncture but they will influence its application. Your Physiotherapists needs to know.

Does Acupuncture Work?

Yes, but it does not work for all. Success can depend on a number of factors, which include:

•  General health

•  The severity and duration of the condition

•  How the condition has been managed in the past

No two people are the same and it is one of the strengths of acupuncture that we treat people individually to get better results. If you know someone who has experienced acupuncture you may find it helpful to discuss the process before deciding on treatment.

What does Acupuncture Treatment Involve?

Your Physiotherapist will use sterile, single use needles. The needles are fine (a lot finer than an injection needle) and they are inserted quickly through the skin and into the tissues. Acupuncture needling should not be painful although some people do report experience a pinprick or scratch like sensation.
Once the needles are in place you may feel a mild ache, numbness, warm or heavy sensation at and around the needle. This should not be unpleasant. This is referred to as 'De Qi' and is a sign that the body’s inbuilt pain relieving mechanisms are being stimulated.

How Many Needles Will Be Used?

Most commonly a treatment will involve the insertion of between 2-16 needles.

Needle Stimulation?

Once the needles are in place your physiotherapist may gently stimulate the needle until you experience the De Qi. This may be repeated again throughout the treatment.
Needles can also be stimulated using electrical impulses. This is called electro- acupuncture. Here needles are coupled to a battery-operated machine. This causes a tingling sensation to be felt at the site of the needle. Low Frequency impulses can help reduce longstanding chronic pain whilst higher frequency impulses can be more helpful in managing acute pain and muscle spasm.

How Long are The Needles In For?

Needles can be in place for as little as a few seconds or 1-2 minutes. More commonly needles will be in place for between 10-30 minutes.

Where Will The Needles Be Placed?

Needles may be inserted:

•  Around the painful area

•  Away from it (hands or feet)

•  On the opposite side of the body

Recent research suggests that needling away from an area of pain is effective. This can be particularly useful if you feel the painful area is too sensitive.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

Research suggests that for a longstanding condition such as low back pain, a course of 6 – 10 treatments is required to achieve the best results. If after further assessment/ treatments your symptoms remain the same, it is unlikely that acupuncture will help you. If you do respond positively to acupuncture the period of symptom ease is varied and uncertain. Some people experience lasting relief of symptoms especially when used to manage a recent acute problem. Your physiotherapist will discuss your individual management plan. Acupuncture treatments may vary dependent on the condition being treated and how you respond to treatment. Each treatment should be tailor-made to you and your condition.

Is It Safe?

Members of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) are required to train to a minimum standard and are bound by professional codes of conduct through the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and Health Professions Council (HPC). 
Acupuncture is safer than many of the drug treatments used. However, any procedure that involves inserting needles into the body has some potential problems, but these remain minimal. Acupuncture has been known to produce some ‘side effects’ in certain people.

Minor Side Effects:

•  Some discomfort at needle site

•  Drowsiness and sleepiness following treatment

•  Bruising at the needle site

•  Temporary pain increase

•  Fainting

•  Feeling faint