In Part One, we considered several things that we can do to control chronic, systemic inflammation. Let’s review: -Improve body composition -Exercise regularly -Get between 7 and 8 hours of sleep -Watch our intake of “vegetable” oil and boost omega-3 fatty acid consumption -Avoid trans fats -Decrease refined carbohydrates -Consume at least 30 grams of dietary fiber per day In Part Two, we’ll add to the list. Diet (continued…) Though the previous article was brought […]

How many hours do you spend in a chair each day? If you’re anything like the average American, it’s likelythat you’re seated for 9 to 13 out of 24 hours. Wow! Doesn’t that seem like a fairly unfortunate way to experience the ride of life? Keep your arms, hands, legs, and feet inside the ride at all times… It Hasn’t Always Been Like This It’s very strange when you think about it: We commute to […]

In last month’s article we reviewed the anatomy and physiology of tendons. This month we will examine available treatment options for tendon disorders. After having started this article, I quickly realized that the content would exceed the allowable length for printed publication. As a result, the topic of tendon treatment will be split into a two-part series. Let’s get started with Part One… Tendon treatment is remarkably complex; at least in this humble clinician’s opinion. […]

What are you supposed to do after experiencing an acute muscle strain or ligament sprain? For decades, people have been told that Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) will expedite recovery and enhance healing. But is this so? In 1978, Dr. Gabe Mirkin authored The Sportsmedicine Book in which he first used the acronym, RICE. Though it remained the gold standard treatment approach for acute musculoskeletal injuries for years, newer investigations have led many researchers […]

When people present to my medical clinic and begin to describe their “symptoms”, I often hear some version of the following: “I have a bone spur.” “I have bulging discs.” “I have a labral tear.” These statements, however, describe radiologic findings rather than symptoms. While bone spurs, bulging discs, and labral tears can be involved in a painful process, patients are often surprised to learn that pain need not necessarily be associated with these findings […]

I have received several recent questions related to shoulder pain. Those who have experienced shoulder discomfort to any significant degree are painfully aware of the limitations that it imposes, not only on training, but also on general daily function. I have become increasingly convinced that most of us could be protecting our shoulders and relieving common causes of discomfort by making a very simple addition to our daily routines. Several years ago, on days when I would […]