Category: Healing

Tools and tips to support your healing for specific diagnosis.

How to Fix Chronic Neck Tension

Posted on June 16, 2023 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

The Link Between Stubborn Chronic Neck Tension and Chest Breathing

If you are constantly grappling with chronic neck tension that never seems to disappear completely, even with massages and other therapies, it may be time to look at your breathing habits. This tension could be an indication that you are breathing with your chest and using your secondary breathing muscles too much. Chest breathing causes your upper neck muscle to elevate your chest as you breathe. Over time, these muscles can become overused, leading to larger muscles like your trapezius to remain tight.

Recognizing Your Breathing Patterns

So what is your breathing pattern

Picture yourself just getting into a hot tub after a long day at work, the warm water hits your skin, and your body begins to relax; you take a deep sigh. This type of breath is driven by the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls relaxation and the exhalation process. Breathing from your nose and belly while having a long, slow exhale is the key characteristic for relaxed breathing.

Contrarily, picture yourself jumping into an icy bath. This would cause you to gasp and start breathing from your chest. When under stress or shocked by cold, your sympathetic nervous system kicks into gear, and your breathing pattern alters. You begin to mouth and chest breathe with shallow quick inhales.

This shift in breathing is also noticeable when exercising. As you walk at a leisurely pace, you should be nose-breathing. But as your pace quickens and turns into a run, your oxygen demand soars, triggering the sympathetic nervous system and secondary breathing response involving mouth and chest elevation.

Don’t Get Stuck in the Cycle

Chest and mouth breathing can be very appropriate when exercising or dealing with stressful situations, but what can happen is people get stuck in that cycle. This means they’re constantly activating their secondary breathing mechanism, leading to overuse of neck and chest-elevating muscles, which in turn causes the persistence of neck tension.

Identifying Chronic Chest Breathing

A simple way to check if you’re a chronic chest breather is to observe if your mouth is dry upon waking up. A dry mouth could signify that you’ve been mouth-breathing through the night and potentially during the day.

Moreover, the sympathetic nervous system, being part of our stress response, also leads the body to retain tension. This can be observed when under stress; you might find yourself clenching your jaw or fists. This tension, coupled with chest breathing, keeps the muscles in your upper neck perpetually tight.

How to Counteract Chronic Neck Tension

To counteract this, two techniques can be adopted: shaking and diaphragm breathing.

Shaking

First, start by shaking to help release the clenching muscles in the upper body.

To reap the benefits of shaking, begin by shaking your extremities and gradually work your way up the body. Start with your hands and feet, then progress to your elbows and knees, followed by your shoulders and hips, and finally, your back and neck. Shake them in freestyle movements, alternating sides, or even shaking the opposite extremities simultaneously, such as your right hand and left foot. Always adhere to your body’s comfort and balance.

During these exercises, ensure that you’re breathing through your nose. Take deep, fulfilling breaths, filling your lungs and air pathways with oxygen. Concentrate on long, slow exhales through your nose to maintain a state of relaxation. Nose breathing boosts the amount of nitric oxide and CO2 you inhale, which helps expand blood vessels and enhance circulation.

Finally, include your shoulders and hips in the shaking routine. To add a fun twist, try some shoulder-shrugging motions. Twisting your body around ensures all muscles are well-stretched and primed for more intense activity.

Conclude the exercise by gently twisting your spine: swing your arms from side to side while looking behind you.

Diaphragm Breathing

Diaphragm breathing, on the other hand, helps to deactivate the secondary breathing muscles, consequently reducing muscle tension in the neck. The practice of diaphragm breathing involves

To fully reap the benefits of diaphragmatic breathing, it’s important to practice it correctly. The diaphragm, being a large muscle, needs a little resistance for effective activation. Nose breathing offers an easy way to increase this effort and naturally activate the diaphragm. Here’s a basic guide to diaphragmatic breathing:

Sit in a comfortable position or lie flat on the floor, bed, or any comfortable, flat surface.
Relax your shoulders.
Put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.
Breathe in through your nose for about two seconds, feeling the air moving through your nostrils into your abdomen, making your stomach expand. Ensure your stomach moves outward while your chest remains relatively still during this type of breathing.
Purse your lips (as if you’re about to drink through a straw), press gently on your stomach, and exhale slowly for about two seconds.
Repeat these steps several times for the best results.
By incorporating diaphragmatic breathing into your routine

Enhancing Your Self-Care Routine with a Cooling or Warming Self-Massage

After you have completed your shaking exercises and diaphragmatic breathing routine, a self-massage can be a wonderful next step to further reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. You can customize your self-massage with either Evil Bone Water for a cooling sensation or Red Emperor Immortal Flame for a warming sensation. Here’s how:

Applying Evil Bone Water for a Cooling Massage
Evil Bone Water, an ancient remedy from traditional Chinese medicine, provides a cooling sensation that can be quite relieving, particularly for tension or inflammation. It comes with a spray applicator which can be very useful For hard-to-reach areas such as the back of your neck,

To use, spray a reasonable amount of Evil Bone Water onto the back of your neck. Then interlock your fingers together gently rub your neck with a washing motion. Your pinky fingers should be rubbing the occiput or base of the skull and your thumb should rub across a large bump on your spine or first thoracic vertebrae. This should result in an immediate cooling effect, easing tension and providing a soothing sensation.

Applying Red Emperor Immortal Flame for a Warming Massage
If you are looking for a warming effect, Red Emperor Immortal Flame is your go-to solution. Known for promoting blood circulation and offering deep warmth, it’s ideal for relieving sore, stiff muscles and joints.

For a focused warming massage, you’ll want to apply this to liniment to specific acupuncture points.

Du 14 (located on the midline of the body, directly below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra)
GB 20 (located in the depression between the upper portion of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the trapezius)

Apply a couple of drops of Red Emperor Immortal Flame to your fingers or directly to these points and gently massage them with your fingertips in a circular motion. The warmth generated by the product should relax your muscles, further promoting a feeling of well-being and relaxation.

During both types of massage, it’s essential to maintain your rhythmic breathing, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly and deliberately through your mouth. This practice further aids relaxation and amplifies the benefits of your self-massage.

Regardless of whether you prefer the cooling sensation of Evil Bone Water or the warming sensation of Red Emperor Immortal Flame, incorporating self-massage into your routine can provide significant relief from muscle tension, promote circulation, and induce a deep state of relaxation. This level of self-care is not only enjoyable but also instrumental in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

The resolution to the persistent problem of chronic neck tension may be more within your control than you might have previously thought. The persistent pain and discomfort that has perhaps become an unwelcome constant in your life could potentially be mitigated, if not eliminated, by implementing relatively simple changes to your daily routine.

It could be that the missing piece of your wellness puzzle lies in something as fundamental as your breathing pattern. By consciously shifting from chest breathing to diaphragmatic breathing, you may find that the grip of chronic neck tension begins to loosen. Coupling this with a balanced regimen of shaking exercises, diaphragmatic breathing, and self-massage using either Elbow Bone Water for a cooling effect or Red Emperor Immortal Flame for a warming sensation, and you will be on the path to relieving this tension for good.

Remember, the road to wellness isn’t a sprint but a marathon that requires consistent care and attention to your body’s signals. While these techniques can be highly beneficial, it’s always essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new practices into your routine. With the right approach and dedication, you can overcome chronic neck tension and elevate your health and well-being.

Buy Evil Bone Water & Red Emperor's Immortal Flame Today!

Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) - 3.4oz

Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) is a Chinese topical medicinal hand-crafted with only empirical grade herbal ingredients in an approved facility.

Red Emperor's Immortal Flame

This liniment has been carefully crafted with a unique blend of organic medicinal herbs, organic Wintergreen Essential Oil, organic menthol, and organic olive oil to provide fast-acting pain relief for both chronic and acute pain.

About the Author

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard!

Adrenal Fatigue and Your Microbiome

Posted on June 8, 2023 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

We’ve all had those days when we feel completely wiped out, unable to cope with the daily stresses life throws at us.

Some refer to this state of unrelenting exhaustion as ‘adrenal fatigue,’ a term commonly used in alternative medicine but not recognized in conventional Western medicine. However, it might be time to reconsider our understanding of this controversial condition, especially in light of recent insights into the gut microbiome’s impact on our health.

In this context, the work of Brehan Crawford stands out. At Crawford Wellness, Crawford combines his deep knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with insights from Western biomedicine to offer a comprehensive approach to health. His expertise has led to a focus on conditions that Western medicine often struggles to diagnose and treat effectively, such as adrenal fatigue and fibromyalgia. Through this lens, we will delve into the intriguing possibility that what is often labeled as “adrenal fatigue” could be more accurately understood through the concept of gut dysbiosis.

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Quick Links to the Sections Below

Adrenal Fatigue
The Gut-Brain Axis: A New Perspective
Microbiome Imbalances and Adrenal Fatigue
The Chinese Medicine Perspective
Adrenal Fatigue, Gut Dysbiosis, and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Biomedical Interpretation: Lingering Pathogens and Gut Dysbiosis
The TCM Treatment Approach
Moving Forward

Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue, as it’s currently understood, is a term used to describe a set of non-specific symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and digestive problems. It’s believed to occur when the adrenal glands aren’t functioning optimally, primarily due to prolonged physical, mental, or emotional stress. However, all these symptoms are the same or similar to gut dysbiosis.

A New Perspective

Recent research into the gut-brain axis provides a compelling new perspective on the origins of conditions like adrenal fatigue. This axis refers to the complex, bidirectional communication network that links our central nervous system (including the brain) with our enteric nervous system (the intrinsic nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract). Our gut microbiome, the community of trillions of bacteria residing in our intestines, plays a crucial role in this dialogue.

The microbiome is incredibly diverse, comprising beneficial (probiotic) bacteria that aid in digestion and support immune health, as well as potentially harmful (pathogenic) bacteria. A healthy balance of these microbes is critical for maintaining our overall health and well-being. Disruption of this balance – known as gut dysbiosis – has been linked to a host of health issues, including anxiety, depression, autoimmune disorders, and even neurodegenerative diseases.

Microbiome Imbalances and Adrenal Fatigue

So, what does this have to do with adrenal fatigue? Research indicates that gut dysbiosis can cause chronic inflammation, which puts the body in a state of constant stress. This continuous stress response could theoretically overtax the adrenal glands, leading to symptoms commonly attributed to adrenal fatigue.

Furthermore, the gut microbiome directly influences the production of various neurotransmitters and hormones, including cortisol – the primary stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Dysbiosis could, therefore, potentially disrupt cortisol production, resulting in the variety of non-specific symptoms that characterize adrenal fatigue.

The Chinese Medicine Perspective

Understanding health conditions through different medical philosophies broadens our understanding and potentially offers alternative treatment options. As we delve deeper into the possibility of gut dysbiosis contributing to adrenal fatigue, it’s worth exploring how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets and treats these symptoms.

Adrenal Fatigue, Gut Dysbiosis, and Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM, symptoms often associated with adrenal fatigue and gut dysbiosis may be viewed as imbalances of Qi (vital energy) or the presence of pathological factors like “Wind” and “Dampness”. These concepts might seem foreign to those accustomed to Western medicine, but they provide a different yet valid, framework for understanding and treating health issues.
Interpreting Adrenal Fatigue: The Role of Wind and Dampness

Consider a condition like fibromyalgia, which shares similar symptoms with adrenal fatigue, In Triditaion Chinese Medicine, fibromyalgia’s wandering pain – pain affecting different parts of the body at different times – is often associated with the pathological factors of Wind and Dampness. TCM believes in treating these underlying factors first to alleviate symptoms effectively.

Lingering Pathogens and Gut Dysbiosis

In biomedical terms, the concepts of Wind and Dampness can be likened to the presence of multiple lingering pathogens in the body, such as the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), which can be reactivated by the presence of biofilm-forming bacteria. These pathogens and bacterial overgrowth contribute to gut dysbiosis, thereby causing inflammation, overstimulation of the adrenal glands, and, eventually, symptoms attributed to adrenal fatigue.

The TCM Treatment Approach

TCM uses herbal formulas to address these imbalances, such as Xiao Chai Hu Tang combined with San Ren Tang. This over 2,000-year-old formula is the most commonly used in TCM for removing lingering pathogens and expelling Wind, thus relieving wandering pain.

The star ingredient, Bupleurum Chinese (Chai hu), is known for its multitude of health benefits, such as anti-inflammation, immunomodulation, anti-fibrosis, and the promotion of digestive enzymes. This, in combination with other ingredients like Scutellarie to combat bacteria, Phinelia for breaking up biofilms, and ginger to warm the GI tract, can help restore balance in the body.

Additionally, TCM emphasizes the importance of sweating. This natural bodily process releases dermcidin and lactoferrin, your body’s own anti-fungal and anti-microbial compounds, which contribute to maintaining a healthy skin microbiome. Drinking hot herbal tea, engaging in gentle physical exercise, and utilizing practices like saunas and breath-holding can further promote sweating and potentially enhance symptom relief.

Acupuncture also plays a role in cultivating your microbiome. The Oxford Academic Journal of Inflammatory Bowel Disease states, acupuncture has demonstrated beneficial roles in the regulation of gut dysbiosis, intestinal barrier dysfunction, visceral hypersensitivity, gut motor function, depression/anxiety, and pain. This explains how acupuncture and herbs are so effective at making you feel better.

Chinese medicine doctors have actively worked to balance these microbiomes for thousands of years and have developed it into a highly sophisticated art and science. They discovered that the key to developing a more harmonious life starts with your microbiome and cultivating an internal garden.

Moving Forward

As we move forward in our understanding of the interconnectedness of health conditions like adrenal fatigue, gut dysbiosis, and fibromyalgia, we see a valuable space where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meets Western medicine. Taking into account this holistic approach which merges Western diagnostics with attention to gut health and the application of TCM, could indeed be the comprehensive pathway to wellness that many have been seeking.

A noteworthy expert in this field is Brehan Crawford at Crawford Wellness. He combines these various elements to provide personalized care for those navigating chronic conditions. Alongside this, Crawford Wellness offers a range of products designed to support your health and well-being journey. Notably, the Wind Tea – an ancient formula modernly applied, aimed at removing lingering pathogens and rebalancing the system. He also uses Microgard Plus.

Microgard Plus offers a promising solution for those suffering from Adrenal Fatigue, helping to alleviate symptoms by supporting the stomach microbiome.

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About the Author

Combining Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Foot Soaks

Posted on May 4, 2023 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing, Techniques

Combining Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks: A Powerful Solution for Diabetics and Foot Fungus Sufferers

For centuries, foot soaks have been a popular and effective way to promote relaxation, stress relief, and overall foot health. People with diabetes and foot fungus can benefit from foot soaks as they help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and soften the skin. This blog post will explore the advantages of combining Evil Bone Water, a traditional Chinese medicine remedy, with Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks. We will also provide guidance on how to prepare an effective foot soak at home

Foot Soaks: A natural solution for diabetics and foot fungus patients

Improved circulation: Foot soaks, especially when using warm water, help dilate blood vessels and enhance blood flow to the feet and lower legs. This is particularly beneficial for those with diabetes, as the condition often results in poor circulation in the feet.

Reduced inflammation: Foot soaks can reduce inflammation, providing relief for swollen or achy feet. This is particularly helpful for individuals with diabetes and foot fungus.

Skin health: Foot soaks can soften and moisturize the skin, which is beneficial for people with dry or cracked skin on their feet. Adding ingredients such as Epsom salt, essential oils, or herbs to the foot soak can enhance these benefits and provide additional therapeutic effects.

The power of Evil Bone Water

Evil Bone Water is a traditional Chinese medicine remedy that has shown promising results in helping some people manage foot fungus. When combined with foot soaks, Evil Bone Water may provide additional antifungal benefits, making it an even more powerful ally in the fight against foot fungus.

The benefits of Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks

Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and improve foot health. They are particularly beneficial for people with conditions such as diabetes, which can cause poor circulation in the feet. Additionally, the herbs used in these foot soaks can provide additional therapeutic effects that can help with skin health and inflammation reduction.

Purchasing Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks

Valley Health Clinic offers both Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks for purchase through their online store. To buy these products, visit https://valleyhealthclinic.com/store/. These high-quality products can help enhance your foot soak experience and provide additional health benefits.

How to prepare an Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soak at home

Preparing a foot soak at home is easy, and the addition of Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks can further enhance its effectiveness. Follow these steps to create a soothing foot soak:

Fill a basin or foot spa with warm water (make sure it’s not too hot, especially for diabetics who may have reduced sensation in their feet).
Add two tea bags of Tibetan Herbal Foot Soak to the water. (If you don’t have that, then try)
Add 1/2 cup of Epsom salt to the water and stir until dissolved.
Add a few drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil for their antifungal and soothing properties.
Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for extra antifungal action.
Add 5-10 sprays of Evil Bone Water to the water until it is nice and yellow
Mix well
Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.
Gently dry your feet with a clean towel, making sure to dry between the toes to prevent fungal growth thoroughly.
After the foot soak, apply Evil Bone Water to your feet and the affected areas, allowing it to dry naturally. This can further aid in managing foot fungus.

Conclusion

Foot soaks provide numerous benefits, from relaxation and stress relief to improved circulation and skin health. For individuals with diabetes or foot fungus, incorporating foot soaks combined with Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks into their wellness routine can be a simple yet effective way to promote overall foot health. Creating a DIY foot soak at home allows for customization and control over the ingredients used, including the addition of Evil Bone Water for enhanced antifungal action and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks for their therapeutic properties.

Purchasing high-quality products like Evil Bone Water and Tibetan Herbal Foot Soaks from Valley Health Clinic can help maximize the benefits of your foot soak. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using foot soaks or Evil Bone Water as a treatment for any medical condition. With consistent use and the right combination of ingredients, foot soaks can be a powerful tool in managing diabetes-related foot issues and combating foot fungus.

https://valleyhealthclinic.com/tibetan-herbal-foot-soaks/

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Method

Posted on January 30, 2023 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

Plantar fasciitis is a common ailment that can significantly impact your daily life. The good news is that effective plantar fasciitis treatment options are available to help alleviate the pain and get you back on your feet. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various treatments and techniques, from conservative approaches to advanced therapies, to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions on managing and treating plantar fasciitis effectively. Say goodbye to foot pain and regain your mobility – read on to discover the best plantar fasciitis treatment options that can bring you relief.

Plantar fasciitis (PLAN’-tar Fashee-EYE’-tis) is a medical condition characterized by moderate to severe heel pain stemming from when the plantar fascia (FA’-shee-uh) becomes inflamed, usually by trauma or overuse. The plantar fascia is a tough band of connective tissue on the bottom of your foot that runs from your heel to the base of your toes at the ball of your foot.

Symptoms

Commonly experienced first in the morning or after a period of rest, this heel pain can mimic the pain of stepping on a piece of glass or can feel as if the heel itself is bruised. If the patient has been off of her or his feet for at least 30 to 60 minutes, for example, while watching television or having a meal, the patient will often hobble for the first several steps due to the pain before being able to put any weight on the heel.

Causes

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is a sudden increase in use, like walking or running. However, sometimes the cause of the specific trauma may go unnoticed until symptoms worsen.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Method

There are two common approaches to treating plantar fasciitis — (1) Stretching and (2) Resting.

The Stretching Method

If the tissue is loose enough, it will not get inflamed when being used. Here are a few ways to administer the stretch:

Stretch the calf with the knee straight to isolate the gastroc.
Stretch the calf with the knee bent to isolate the soleus

Stretch the calf using a stair or edge on the bottom of the foot to isolate the plantar fascia.
Splint the foot in a flexed position at night by untucking the sheets of the bed so the foot can rest in a more neutral position.
Roll the bottom of the foot with a tennis ball or frozen water bottle.

The Resting Method

When rested for an extended period of time, the inflammation has the opportunity to subside. Consider:

Decreasing activity of being on feet
Wearing soft and cushy shoes
Using crutches or wearing an orthopedic boot.

If you have tried both of these methods and have found that you are not healing as fast as you would like, I would suggest trying a third method that I have found works very well.

The Pressing Method

Below is an excerpt from the founder of this technique, Harry Oxenhandler:

One day, after having walked quite a long distance, I noticed pain in my heel. I had no recollection of having injured my heel other than the walk itself. The pain persisted, and I noticed that I was hobbling after having been seated for a while or after having gotten out of bed. I finally realized that I had plantar fasciitis and that it had probably been caused by one of the soft spikes on the bottom of my athletic shoe. After several days of rest and stretching with no positive results, I became very frustrated. I sat down on a chair and crossed my ankle on my opposite knee and turned the sole of my foot towards my face, and began to probe the bottom of my sore heel to see if I could find the most tender spot. Once I located the most tender spot, I marked it with a ballpoint pen and then took the rounded, blunt end of the pen and began to apply deep pressure to that very specific spot.

Needless to say, it was very tender, but I have to tell you that it was a “good hurt,” if you know what I mean. It felt as if I were, somehow, getting to the root of the problem. I switched to using my thumb because it gave me more leverage and continued to push on the most tender spot until I felt the tip of my thumb actually touching the heel bone itself. Of course, I had not penetrated the skin. I had merely pushed the underlying tissues out of the way by applying steady, deep pressure for about 5 minutes until it felt as if my thumb tip were touching my heel bone. At that point, I stopped.

The next day, my heel was sore. After a couple of days, however, the heel felt better. The symptoms of pain and hobbling around were still there, but it was not nearly so severe. I repeated the above treatment about every three days for a total of six times. The heel pain disappeared and has never returned since.

I decided to offer this treatment option to those of my patients with plantar fasciitis that had suffered from the problem for a long time, that had tried many of the treatment modalities available and that were willing to give it a try. Many of my patients were more than willing because plantar fasciitis can be very disabling. I would ask the patient to lie face down on the examining table, and I would bend the knee to 90°. Then I would carefully poke around with my thumb until I found the most tender spot on the heel. I then explained to the patient that when I applied gradual but deep pressure, that s(he) was going to feel some tenderness and to tell me if s(he) wanted me to stop at any time. I am being completely honest with you when I say that no one had ever asked me to stop until I had finished (about 5 min).”

– Excerpt from MEDICAL PEARLS of WISDOM: 4 Secret Cures from a Pain Specialist

As shown in the example from the founder of this method, the simple yet profound impact of slow, steady, and deep pressure cannot be understated. Different tissues in the body have different tissue densities. The denser the tissue, the slower it responds to pressure.

A few examples of this phenomenon can be shown through foods. For example, when you are spreading butter, warm butter is less dense and spreads easier than cold. Another example is jelly vs. peanut butter. Jelly spreads easier than peanut butter because it is less dense. If you have ever tried to spread peanut butter on bread too quickly, it will tear the bread. You need to apply slow and steady pressure to avoid tearing.

Like jelly and peanut butter, muscles are less dense than ligaments and tendons. And as we go deeper, ligaments and tendons are less dense than bone.

Therefore, it’s important to note that muscles respond quickly to external pressure. Bones, on the other hand, respond more slowly. This is why extended periods of muscle tension can cause pain and aggravation in the tendons, like tennis elbow. Extended periods of tendon tension will create aggravation in the bone, like bone spurs. With plantar fasciitis, there is some level of muscle tension and tendon tension and, in severe cases, possible bone inflammation. To treat this inflammation, we need to apply the appropriate amount of pressure to stimulate the appropriate tissue.

Typically done with plantar fasciitis, applying heat for 10 minutes, foam rolling, and a quick massage will relax the muscles, however, it will not have an impact on the plantar fascia.

I have found that instead, soaking the foot for 20-30 min and applying slow, steady pressure will have a greater effect on relaxing the deeper and denser plantar facia.

The key to successful treatment was to make sure that I applied deep and steady pressure until I felt as if the tip of my thumb had gradually pushed away the fat and fascia layers beneath the skin of the heel and had actually touched the heel bone. The heel can have quite a thick layer of fat and fascia between the skin of the heel and the heel bone, so it can take considerable pressure to separate those tissues and reach the heel bone.

Tips & Tricks

I would recommend this method for treatment with your patients:

Foot soak for 20 to 30 minutes
Topical Liniment Rub to the area
Apply Knobble with slow and steady pressure

Foot Soak
I have found that longer exposure to heat, like a foot soak, is better and more relaxing to the deeper tissue of the feet than a topical healing pad. The heat helps the tissue move and spread apart so you can reach the deeper plantar fascial layer more quickly. Botanical Biohacking Foot Soaks are by far the best I have found.

Topical Liniments
I have also found that applying topical liniments can help the foot feel better and recover quicker from the deep pressure. For Plantar Fasciitis, Evil Bone Water is the best. It penetrates deeply into the tissue and bones, stimulating fresh blood flow to the area to supercharge the healing process.

Unlike oral pain medications, EBW gets to work on pain immediately. You don’t have to wait for the ingredients to go through your stomach and digestive system, degrading along the way and depositing harmful compounds into your blood and vital organs. Simply apply EBW to the affected area, and the patient will instantly feel warm relief.

Buy Evil Bone Water Today!

Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) - 3.4oz

Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) is a Chinese topical medicinal hand-crafted with only empirical grade herbal ingredients in an approved facility.

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Introduction to Herbal Medicine

Posted on September 17, 2020 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

What is Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine simply means using specific plants (or parts or extracts of plants) to treat or alleviate health issues. It is one of the most commonly used forms of natural medicine in the U.S., and modern clinical studies have confirmed the effectiveness of many herbal remedies.

Why do we use Herbal Medicine?

We include herbal medicine as part of a comprehensive treatment plan because it complements acupuncture giving you faster results.

It is a simple, natural, and affordable way for you as a patient to continue your care in between appointments.

We Use Only the Best Herbs

All our herbs are derived from nature. They do not contain harsh chemicals, alcohol, or preservatives, and are very gentle to your system. Each batch is checked for safety against bacteria, fungus, and heavy metal.

They are manufactured under pharmaceutical GMP standards. This mandates that all our products have undergone TLC testing to validate authenticity, HPLC testing to ensure potency, and have a COA to guarantee safety and purity. In other words, our products are manufactured with surgical precision in a bio-med laboratory while other herbal products are made with food standards. If you believe Chinese herbs are medicine, you must use Chinese herbs that are made with pharmaceutical precision to attain desired therapeutic results.

How To Brew Chinese herbal tea

Teas come in two main categories:

Teas with seeds (Peak, Wind, Neurogene)
Teas without seeds. (Xiao Yao Wan, Warm Hearth, Hao Xiang Zheng Qi Wan)

For the teas without seeds, you brew them like you would any normal herbal tea.

Pour boiling water onto the teabag,
Let it steep for 5-10 minutes,
Sit and enjoy

You can rebrew these teas several times until there’s no more flavor left.

For the teas with seeds, we recommend simmering on the stove for 20 to 30 minutes, to get a complete extraction of the active ingredients.

Take the teabag out of the package.
Shake the contents of the teabag down
- Cut the teabag open. You don’t have to do this step but I like to brew it this way.
- Empty it into a pot.
For each teabag, you want to use about one to two pints of water.
Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes
After teas have been simmering for about 20-30 minutes

It’s ready to strain and drink. You can use a thermos or a mason jar whatever you like. Tea strainer pour the tea through the strainer you’ll see it’s got a beautiful color and you can really smell the aroma. It’s great straight out of the jar or use your favorite mug. Enjoy!

Watch this Great Video

Side Effects

Sensitive patients may experience reactions such as minor stomach discomfort. If such reactions occur, reduce the dosage, take with food, or let me know

Can I take Herbs with my Prescription drugs?

Most herbal may be taken by individuals who are also using prescription drugs, without problems. However, it is recommended that herbal be taken on an empty stomach at least two hours apart from the prescription drugs.

The most common interaction is that herbal medicine increases the effectiveness of prescription medication or duplicates the action.

Most common interaction is with, Antiplatelets, Anticoagulants, antihyperlipidemic. So please inform me if you are on any medication so I can best advise you on what to do to avoid possible herb-drug interaction.

Steps to Wellness

There are 3 unique steps to wellness. However, the rate at which you move through these stages depends on your unique situation. A good rule of thumb is one month of care for every year you have had a certain medical condition.

Step 1: Symptomatic Care

During this stage, our is concerned with alleviating the symptoms causing you to seek help. Once your symptoms are relieved, you will move on to Step 2, Corrective Care.

If this is difficult to understand, think of replenishing an overgrown garden. The first step in cultivating the space is to cut back excess growth and weeds. Your symptoms are very much like the weeds.

Step 2: Corrective Care

In order to restore your health, we must also determine the underlying cause of your illness, rather than simply addressing the symptoms. This involves a second Evergreen formula uniquely positioned and carefully prescribed to address the root of your concerns. Often, patients enjoy the second treatment phase for two to six months.

Continuing the garden analogy, we now must take complete care to remove the weeds from the soil and prepare the soil for new seeds to plant. Using appropriate tools, the roots are extracted, leaving healthy plants and rich earth behind. Step 2 heals what is creating and causing your pain and discomfort, setting the stage for healthy living.

Step 3: Maintenance Care

The final phase of your care includes Maintenance Therapy. We will prescribe tonics and keep your immune system strong and healthy, so it will protect the body as it should. The final phase of treatment is ongoing. After all, relapse is simply unacceptable

In our analogy, this means the soil of our reclaimed garden is fertilized and treated to prevent the return of weeds while building a healthy foundation to support the growth of beautiful plants and flowers. What this means for you is that your overall health is protected by Chinese herbs, just as the garden is protected and allowed to thrive.

About the Author

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at www.valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard guiding your way.

A more harmonious life through microbiomes

Posted on November 1, 2019 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

Microgard Plus from Botanical Biohacking

What most doctors are missing is that trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi make up your microbiomes. These tiny ecosystems influence your healthy immune system and hormone balance. Most people look at killing strategies when they should be looking at it more like cultivating a healthy garden. This is because self-cultivation begins with cultivating your microbiome gardens. This is also the key to optimizing your brain.

Traditional Chinese herbal medicines (like MicroGuard Plus) not only have direct chemical effects, they also have indirect actions to modulate the body through cultivating the microbiomes.

To learn more about MicroGuard Plus, click on this video and download this informational sheet.

About the Author

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at www.valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard guiding your way.

Acupuncture and Pain Types

Posted on May 3, 2018 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

Identify your pain at triggerpoints.net.

Acute Pain

Acute Pain is the easiest to understand because there was a pain and it was recent. The patient can point to it and can remember what happened to cause it. The body is sending pain and location signals to the brain. Recent acute pain is often the east to treat and the body responds quickly because a chronic pattern or pain expectation has not set in. If the pain is sever, light local needling or distal needling is best. Strong local needling will add stress to a system that is already over stressed and aggravated. Light local needling with stimulation encourages a local healing response but not aggravation. It will act like a kind of homeopathic treatment. Distal points can block the pain and help the muscles rest.

Chronic Pain

Chronic Pain has affected the whole system and a correct local treatment will improve the condition but the pain will return because the body can not adjust to the pain free movement. You must treat local and adjacent points. With chronic pain the body can loose the location signal and the pain may feel vague or wandering. Local needling will stimulate the location nerves and help the body heal.

Nerve Pain

Nerve Pain is often described as burning or prickling or electrical shock. Some people with nerve pain will have hypersensitivity to temperature or touch. Very often it will radiate past two joints. Muscle pain radiation rarely passes two joints. Radiation will be along a path and patients will trace an area with there finger when describing it.

Psychogenic Pain

Psychogenic Pain aggravated with stress responds better to distal treatment. Pain will often feel better after treatment but always come back once the patient returns to work. It will be very frustrating to treat and can look like a repetitive injury that is aggravated from work. Often time psychogenic pain will be aggravated eerily in the work day will repetitive pain will be aggravated later.

Muscle Pain

Muscles Pain is classic. Dull, tight, and achy. It will be local and effected with pressure on the area either by aggravating or relieving pain. For tendon, meniscus, and ligaments, this pain is sharp and often sudden. Patients will describe a giving out of the joint or sudden weakness. For example patient has dull achy shoulder pain, this is muscle pain. When the patient does the arch of pain test at around 90 degrees they say ouch and drop their shoulder. The sudden sharp pain causing weakness would be the tendon being pinched. Another classic example is a tore meniscus or ligament in the knee. The patient will have dull achy pain and suddenly will step wrong and get a sharp pain. They will say it feels like their knee is giving out.

Itis

Inflammation will have swelling heat and redness. Arthritis is worse in the morning and better with heat and movement as the swelling is moved out of the joint. Muscle pain is also worse in the morning and better with heat and movement but it will not come back as quickly with rest. Muscle pain will be aggravated at the end of the day with when patient over does the activity.

Bursitis will be painful with pressure on bursae, It will typically only be painful with exercises or excessive movement but fine with normal movement. For example, it will only hurt when the patient runs.

Tendonitis is worse in the morning. The most common pain that is worse in the morning is “itis”. The joints fill with inflammation at night and when you first start to move can be painful. The best example of this is Plantar Fasciitis. It will feel like stepping on glass when they first get up in the morning but will feel better once they move around.

About the Author

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at www.valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard guiding your way.

The 4 Stages of Healing

Posted on May 3, 2018 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing, Recovery

Acute, or Inflammatory Phase (48 hours to 72 hours)

The inflammatory phase begins immediately following your injury and is characterized by swelling, redness, and pain. Your body is dissolving blood elements and tissue debris. Often time pain leads to muscle spasms creating a pain spasm loop.

Reparative Stage-Post Acute (48hrs to 6 weeks)

At this stage your body is laying down fibrin collagen and fibroblasts to begin repairing the area. There is some redness, tenderness and a decrease in circulation and flexibility. It is during this time that your body is doing all it can to protect the affected area. This sense of guarding can echo into your mental state as well – many people tend to hole up in their homes to heal in private.

At Valley Health we encourage you to get out and move as soon as you are able – and what better incentive to do so than coming in for a healing, calming, therapeutic appointment? Our clients say how helpful and positive it is to have a reason to leave the house for compassionate, focused care. It’s easy to forget how powerful human touch can be, and welcoming into your recovery. It changes your journey from a solo expedition into a team effort.

Remodeling and Rehabilitation Phase (3 week to 12 months)

Your body transitions into this second phase of repair. The body has fibrous deposition (scar tissue) and possible chronic inflammatiory reaction. To remodel is to grow by rapid production, and that is exactly what your body is going through during this stage. The visible signs of inflammation will subside, and new tissue forms. This new tissue is fragile, and susceptible to injury.

It is during this phase that people feel like their mind is ready for them to be better, but their body is lagging behind. Oftentimes, remaining bruising and limited range of motion can bring about a sense of depression.

“Can I get back to work? What about exercise?”

“Is this my final result?”

“I thought I’d be better by now.”

The fear that tends to arise during this phase of healing can cause you to guard the area even further. You may be scared to move too much, and this anxiety can cause you to lock down and stay still in order to protect yourself. This fragile new tissue, however, is susceptible to more than just injury – it is also susceptible to stagnancy, and restricting movement can form adhesions. These adhesions can limit range of motion when movement is eventually reintroduced, so appropriate mobilization of the tissue during this stage is important.

The benefit of working with your acupuncturist lies in their knowledge of what will and won’t be best for you. Some people close down, and we remind them to get out and move. Some people push themselves too far too fast, and we remind them to slow down and allow themselves to heal. Your greatest benefit lies in getting answers to your questions, and support to get through your fears and anxieties.

Chronic, or Restorative Phase (Months to Years)

This phase can continue for a period from several months to several years. It is during this stage that there is no pain but the tissues do not function normally. Often time there is stiffness, muscle tightness some aching and weakness.

Your mind may continue to receive confusing messages from your body based on the memory of the trauma. Even when the body has fully healed, the alarm in your brain may still be turned on, and your body can continue working to heal the area of trauma. It is during this stage that these tissues may become stuck – your pain goes away, but you can be left with persisting symptoms that limit your range of motion and aggravate your mental well-being. This is when many people question when, or even if, they will ever be “back to normal.”

The answer to that question has a caveat – your body is different now. Your skin, muscles, and sometimes even your bones are all in new places, in positions they have never been before. Because of this, “back to normal” really translates to “discovering your new normal.”

Helping you discover your new normal is your acupuncturist primary goal. Remodeling can be difficult to push through, but much like the final few miles of a marathon, the support of your acupuncturist combined with your own awareness and strength will get you past the finish line.

Health Maintenance

Once you have passed through these four phases of healing, you once again have the freedom that comes with good health and well-being. You also gain the opportunity of choice when it comes to maintaining this health and well-being.

Oftentimes, our clients choose to transition into receiving health maintenance treatments – regular tune-ups to keep their bodies in a place of wellness. Other clients come in and out of receiving further treatments by returning to valley Health when new injuries arise. Some simply continue moving forward, content with their newfound independence and imbued, freshly healed spirit. Whatever your choice the door is always open, and allies in healing will always be here for you, through all the seasons of your life.

About the Author

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at www.valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard guiding your way.

Adrenal Fatigue

Posted on February 28, 2018 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

Adrenal Fatigue symptoms are usually an overwhelming fatigue and inability to handle stress. Some experts believe that upwards of 80% of the population suffers from some level of adrenal insufficiency. More and more alternative health practitioners are beginning to recognize how widespread adrenal fatigue (hypoadrenia) is in the general population. The symptoms listed below provide a more complete picture of adrenal fatigue:

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Fixing Adrenal Fatigue

The adrenal glands are very complex parts of the endocrine system producing glucocorticoids (cortisol is the most important), mineralocorticoids (aldosterone), epinephrine, norepinephrine and even sex hormones. Adrenal fatigue affects every part of the body and every aspect of life.

If you are experiencing the symptoms described below it is imperative you find a practitioner and get tested and treated. Printing this out and taking it to your practitioner may be helpful.

Saliva cortisol testing usually includes the sex hormones too and can be ordered from several on-line sites without a doctor’s order. If you do it this way though, testing will not be covered by insurance. Saliva testing is the most accurate test because it shows the rhythm of cortisol production and because it shows how much cortisol is present that the body can actually use. Blood tests only show bound cortisol which gives no indication if that cortisol is actually available to enter the tissues. Many people test “normal” on blood cortisol yet very low on saliva.

Allergies

Most allergies involve an inflammatory process. As the adrenal function decreases, allergies worsen. Generally, if the adrenal glands were functioning properly, the body would not respond to the allergen. This same anti-inflammatory effect is important in asthma also. As the adrenal glands heal, allergies are markedly reduced.

Asthma, Bronchitis or Chronic Cough

Any person with lung problems, especially asthma and bronchitis should be checked for poor adrenal function. The lungs cannot respond appropriately to stress, allergens etc because of lack of cortisol. Asthma is often considered an emotional disease because stress can trigger an attack. Fix the adrenals so the body can respond normally to stress and the asthma will disappear.

Behavior & Memory Problems

Cortisol even regulates the electrical activity of neurons in the brain and thus influences behavior, mood and memory. Behavior changes frequently occur in both excess and deficient cortisol levels. Sleep disorders for example, are common with both high and low cortisol. Symptoms more closely related to adrenal fatigue involve decreased tolerance (quick to anger), decreased clarity of thought, poor memory and memory retrieval.

Dizziness

When a person stands from a sitting or lying position, the systolic blood pressure usually rises about 10 points as blood vessels in the lower body constrict to force blood to the heart, lungs and brain. This is a result of the action of epinephrine on the blood vessels. In people with adrenal fatigue, the blood vessels are unable to respond to the release of epinephrine because of lack of cortisol, so blood pools in the abdomen and pelvis and blood pressure drops. This systolic drop ranges from 10 to 40 points and is present in over 90% of those with hypoadrenia. Dizziness is usually present on standing; however, in some people it is present intermittently or constantly throughout the day as even resting blood pressure is low. Paradoxically, in order to prevent pooling of blood in the abdomen and lower extremities, the body may keep blood pressure extremely elevated. Pressure will still drop when the person stands but only to around 150. Remember, it may have been 180 or higher before standing. Treating the adrenals will lower blood pressure whereas anti-hypertensives and diuretics will make the adrenal problems worse in many cases.

Excessive Thirst & Urination

A person with low aldosterone may also urinate 15 to 20 times a day and drink excessive quantities of water. Unless salt is added to the water, the fluid/electrolyte balance in the body is further disrupted.

Headaches

This is caused again by blood pooling in the abdomen and pelvis leading to inadequate blood supply to the head.

Heart Sounds

The heart normally makes a “lub-dub sound, with the second sound being much quieter than the first sound. In a person with hypoadrenia, the second sound will be equal or louder than the first sound over the pulmonic valve. When the body is stressed, it produces epinephrine which will cause vasoconstriction throughout most of the body, including the lungs. This vasoconstriction decreases the production of mucous in the airways. At the same time, epinephrine will relax the bronchi (bronchodilation) allowing more air to reach the lungs. In those with adrenal fatigue, the body cannot respond to the epinephrine because of lack of cortisol so they experience bronchoconstriction instead, leading to symptoms of asthma. The bronchoconstriction, along with vasodilation and swelling of the mucous membranes create a back pressure in pulmonary circulation (pulmonary hypertension) that causes the pulmonary valve to slam shut, hence the accentuated second sound over the pulmonic valve. Lung diseases such as tuberculosis or tumors can also cause this loud 2nd sound.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are basically varicose veins of the rectum and are caused by blood pooling in the abdomen and pelvis. When a person presents with hemorrhoids, it is usually do to adrenal fatigue, but can be caused by liver congestion. Once again, listening to the heart can help determine the cause. If the loud second sound is over the pulmonic valve, it is indicative of adrenal problems, while a loud 2nd sound over the tricuspid valve is indicative of liver congestion.

Hyperpigmentation

Although more often seen in actual Addison’s disease, hyperpigmentation is occasionally seen in adrenal fatigue. This increased pigmentation of the skin may show up as “bronzing” somewhere on the body or as unusual brown.

Hypoglycemia

As adrenal fatigue progresses, blood glucose levels will tend to fall too low. The body responds to hypoglycemia by causing the person to crave anything that will rapidly raise blood sugar levels, such as a soda, candy bar, a cup of coffee or even cigarettes. Often adrenal fatigue leads to the abuse of alcohol, marijuana, and hard drugs because of the need to “fix” recurrent hypoglycemia. Unfortunately, the rapid rise in blood glucose provided by the “fix” only serves to start the whole cycle over.

Indigestion

The same sluggish circulation in the abdomen can cause symptoms of indigestion and poor absorption of nutrients.

Inflammation

Cortisol and other glucocorticoids produced by the adrenal glands are the body’s own anti-inflammatory hormones. People who have responded to injections of corticosteroids into joints or to taking them orally are usually those whose adrenal glands produce insufficient amounts of these hormones. Any person who responds to corticosteroids should be checked for adrenal fatigue.

Muscle Weakness & Back Pain

Dr. Goodheart identified five skeletal muscles which can indicate adrenal function. These are 1) sartorius, 2) gracilis, 3) posterior tibialis, 4) gastrocnemius, and 5) soleus. When the adrenal glands are malfunctioning, there will be weakness in one or more of these muscles. The sartorius and gracilis attach on the pelvis. Weakness in these muscles can cause the sacro-iliac joint to subluxate posteriorally (toward the back) leading to low back pain. In persons with adrenal fatigue, low back pain is frequently caused by instability of the pelvis rather than an actual back problem. These same two muscles also attach to the knee and help provide support. Weakness will cause knee pain, weakness and instability of the joint. Any person with knee problems should be checked for adrenal fatigue. The other 3 muscles mentioned stabilize the feet and ankles. Weakness of any of these muscles leads to complaints of tired, aching feet, weak ankles or aching calves. The symptoms related to the muscle weakness will improve when the adrenal glands are treated.

Recurrent Infections

Severe and/or recurrent infections (especially respiratory) often indicate adrenal problems. The more severe, the more frequently it occurs or the longer it lasts, the more likely adrenal fatigue is involved in the infection.

Salt Craving

The adrenal glands produce many more hormones than just glucocorticoids. One very important hormone is aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid. Aldosterone regulates fluid and electrolytes (sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium) in the blood, between and in the cells of the body. As adrenal fatigue progresses, the production of aldosterone lessens. This causes “salt-wasting”. As the salt is excreted by the kidneys, water follows leading to electrolyte imbalance and dehydration. Those with adrenal fatigue should always add salt (preferably sea salt with its trace minerals) to their water. Soft drinks and electrolyte drinks like Gatorade are high in potassium and low in sodium, the opposite of what someone with low cortisol needs. Commercial electrolyte drinks are designed for those who produce high cortisol when exercising, not for someone who produces little or no extra cortisol during exercise. You need to add 1⁄4 to 1 teaspoon of salt to a glass of water or eat something salty to maintain fluid/electrolyte balance.

Sleep Disturbances

Cortisol production follows a curve from highest levels around 8am, dropping throughout the day until the lowest levels are reached about 11pm. In early stages of adrenal fatigue the body compensates with high night time cortisol. In this case the person finds it difficult to relax from the stress of the day and has trouble going to sleep. High night-time cortisol results in reduced REM sleep which is neither restful nor restorative. This can lead to depression and reduced energy levels the next day. In later stages of adrenal fatigue, the body may produce adrenaline (“fight or flight” hormone) in an attempt to compensate for low cortisol. This too will result in insomnia.

Swelling

As the body tries to keep the ratio of electrolytes and fluid balanced, fluid may pour into the tissues and cause swelling. Most doctors will only see the symptom and not the cause and prescribe a diuretic which further compounds the dehydration and electrolyte imbalance and making the patient worse.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins of the lower extremities result from the same pooling of blood in the abdomen and pelvis that causes hemorrhoids.

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About the Author

Treating Lower Cross Syndrome

Posted on February 28, 2018 by Valley Health Clinic - Healing

Learn more about Lower Cross Syndrome and how Valley Health Clinic can help

Lower cross syndrome refers to a pattern of various tightened and weak muscles. This body pattern can decrease strength, flexibility, range of motion and lead to further degenerative processes. It is commonly seen in people with Piriformis syndrome or Sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Lower cross syndrome consists of various tightened and weak muscles. The tight muscles are generally as follows: hip flexors such as (iliopsoas and rectus femoris), and erector spinae muscle The weakened muscles are as follows: abdominal muscles and gluteus maximus.

The Problem

Inactive gluteal muscles or overactive hip flexors can facilitate development of many problems including Piriformis and SI joint pain. When the gluteals are not activating the hamstrings, adductor magnus, and piriformis have to perform work overtime. Resulting hypertrophy of the piriformis which produces sciatic symptoms. Also many of these large and small muscles have relationships with the ligaments of the sacroiliac joint. When they are tight they can restrict proper motion in the pelvis causing sacroiliac joint pain.

A major cause for inactive gluteals is overactive hip flexors (psoas major, iliacus, and rectus femoris). This imbalance usually occurs where the hip flexors have been trained to be too short and tight, such as when someone sits with hips flexed, as in sitting all day at work.

Another cause of tight hip flexors is athletes engaging in forward-moving activities, such as runners and bicyclists. When not balanced by lateral movement of the legs, repeated forward movements can lead to disproportionately weak hip abductors and tight adductors. This can cause the piriformis muscle to shorten and severely contract. These athletes need to balance their activities by engaging in lateral stretching and strengthening exercises.

A Solution, Prirformis Stretch

Perform a 10 seconds Piriformis stretch – re-align your pelvis, prevent sciatica.

A Solution, Sacroiliac Joint Mobilization

See an example of sacroiliac joint mobilization.

A Solution, Sacroiliac Joint Stabilization

See an example of advanced sacroiliac joint stabilization.

About the Author

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at www.valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard guiding your way.