A product guide featuring the latest products and services
Orthotic Technology
Foot Levelers Inc introduces its moisture and odor abatement technology to three orthotics to complete the UltraDry™ product line. The new products are called UltraDry Energy™ with the Power Core Advanced Magnet™ System, the UltraDry Young Soles™ (for aged 5 to 12), and the UltraDry Softhotics™ for diabetic, sensitive, or arthritic feet.
UltraDry technology fights the bacteria and fungus that cause most foot odor. In addition to controlling heat build-up, it wicks perspiration away from the foot into a specially-developed copolymer layer, creating a gel-like substance. This gelled moisture then dissipates throughout the day and disappears completely when the orthotics are not being worn. Within hours of removing them, the orthotics are fresh and ready to wear.
The UltraDry technology was launched in the year 2000 and received overwhelming response. In January 2001, Foot Levelers added the technology to the athletic Shoethotics™ line, with continuous requests to add it to other product lines.
"We just didn’t realize how much people wanted odor and wetness control in our Spinal Pelvic Stablilzer™ orthotic line until the requests," says Kent Greenawalt, Foot Levelers’ president.
All orthotics in the Ultra product line, as well as all Sandalthotics and Shoethotics, incorporate the Gait Cycle System™, which supports body balance in each stage of locomotion.
For more information , contact Foot Levelers Inc, 518 Pocahontas Ave NE, Roanoke, VA 24027-2611; 800-533-4860; fax: 540-345-0202; www.footleve lers.com.
Resistive Exerciser
NZ Manufacturing Inc offers the AnkleCordz® resistive exerciser for lower extremity exercises, including leg abduction, leg curls, and hip flexion.
AnkleCordz are made of rubber tubing with thick, neoprene ankle padding for comfort. Available in five resistance levels, AnkleCordz can be used by a variety of patients and clients. The complete line of NZ Manufacturing Inc products is used by rehabilitation and fitness institutions along with many national professional sports teams.
For additional information, contact NZ Manufacturing Inc, 3502 C St NE, Auburn, WA 98002; 800-886-6621; fax: 866-320-3653; info@nzmfg.com; www. nzmfg.com.
Technique Video and Manual
VanGo Video Productions offers the "Seminar in a Box" video and companion Thompson Technique manual that covers segmental drop adjusting in short segments covering specific analysis and adjusting procedures.
The video and manual are used by chiropractic colleges and field doctors to learn the gentle methodology of drop table adjustment. Contact points, line of drive, and line of correction are explained on the video.
The basic five categories of leg length inequality and adjusting procedures are covered to provide an easy to follow learning environment. Additional moves cover alternate and advanced adjusting procedures as well as introducing people to the drop-table style of adjusting.
For additional information, contact VanGo Video Productions, 3904 Lillie Ave, Suite 6, Davenport, IA 52806; 563-386-8585; http://showcase.netins.net/web/chirohealth.
Slanted Seat
Rehab Seating Systems Inc offers the Ascender™ Multi-Purpose Chair with a slanted seat to maximize skeletal position and the user’s ability to "sit to stand."
The ergonomic design reduces the effort and risk associated with rising from standard height chairs while lessening the chance of a lifting injury to the caregiver. This seating system is designed with a seat deck control mechanism that allows for a flat or an elevated forward slope.
Many seating experts agree that a seat that slopes forward encourages a natural skeletal position. Opposing muscle groups are balanced, thus producing balanced seating in which the back is in the correct alignment. Engineered to be comfortable and functional, Ascender chairs enhance the user’s ability to achieve a higher level of independence. The extended armrests provide support when rising from the chair. The hardwood frame provides a stable seating platform and ample weight bearing support.
The Bariatric models provide the obese patient with spacious and firm seating, comfort, proper skeletal positioning, and a safe and easy exit. The ergonomically designed seating is available in three model widths and weight capacities up to 1000 lbs, and the seating technology can maintain hip flexion under 90°.
For additional information, contact Rehab Seating Systems Inc, 8 Alton Pl, Suite 3, Brookline, MA 02146; 800-525-7328; fax: 617-738-9769; email: info@rehabseating.com; www.rehabseating.com.
Elbow Support
IMAK Products Corp introduces its Adjustable Elbow Support to replace towels when treating elbow pain.
The adjustable elbow support was designed by an orthopedic surgeon to treat cubital tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and medial epicondylitis. With Velcro® straps for adjustment, the Adjustable Elbow Support prevents excessive movement— allowing pain-free rest. The removable splint allows the patient, therapist, or doctor to customize the level of motion.
Produced with lightweight materials, the Adjustable Elbow Support is made of cushioned foam and a cotton lining for comfort. One adjustable size fits any arm or elbow, and the support is washable.
For additional information, contact IMAK Products Corp, 2515 Camino Del Rio S, Suite 240, San Diego, CA 92103; 619-291-9990; 800-231-8226; fax: 619-291-9190; email: customercare@imakproducts.com; www.imakproducts.com.
Synergy Seminar
Standard Process Inc hosts Nature’s Synergy: Protocols with Herbs and Whole Foods on October 13–14 in Schaumberg, Ill. The seminar is being held to educate health care professionals about clinical options for using herbal and nutritional products, protocols for the management of everyday problems within body systems, and herb/drug interactions.
In addition to the seminar, participants will have the opportunity to tour the Standard Process facilities in Palmyra, Wis on October 12. This complimentary tour will allow health care professionals to experience how Standard Process’ products are produced, visit the farm headquarters to learn organic farming techniques, and meet those responsible for product development.
For more information, contact Standard Process Inc, 1200 W Royal Lee Dr, PO Box 904, Palmyra, Wl 53156-0904; 800-848-5061; fax: 262-495-2122; email: info@standardprocess. com; www.standardprocess.com.
Accounting Software
MediSoft introduces the MediSoft Version 6 patient accounting software, which includes MediSoft Patient Accounting, MediSoft Advanced Patient Accounting, MediSoft Multi-User Patient Accounting, and MediSoft Client Server Patient Accounting. New features include: more electronic options, including Eligibility Verification and MedPrint Electronic Statements, and more reports to help manage cash flow; MediSoft Advanced offers enhanced payment application and improved data security; MediSoft Multi-User allows two to five users on a Windows® 95/98/Me network to access MediSoft data simultaneously; MediSoft Client/Server offers more reports and features than other levels of MediSoft which includes productivity and activity reports, network messaging, and storage of images, sounds, or video clips in a patient’s account.
Prices for new MediSoft Version 6 systems range from $99 to $1399. Upgrades begin at $79. Network versions require an additional purchase of user database licenses.
For more information, contact MediSoft 916 E Baseline Rd, Suite 225, Mesa, AZ 85204; 480-892-5120; 800-333-4747; www.medisoft.com.
Adjustable Ankle Wrap
United Pacific Inc introduces a new, user-friendly, lightweight, adjustable ankle wrap with a velcro strap created to relieve pain and injury. Since ankles are susceptible to numerous types of injuries, United Pacific has specifically developed and designed this heat retainer to combat ankle injuries. It is ideal for use on swollen, sprained or arthritic ankles because the tension of the support can be adjusted.
Thermoskin heat retainers help increase blood flow, efficiently wick away moisture, are more comfortable to wear, and provide light compression and support.
For more information, contact United Pacific Inc, 400 Northeast Dr, 20/21 Business Center, Unit F, Columbia, SC 29203; 803-735-0034; fax: 803-735-3002; email: thermoskin@thermoskin. com; www.thermoskin.com.
Whole Food Nutritional Supplement
Standard Process Inc introduces Palmettoplex, which is designed specifically for men. This new addition to the the whole food nutritional supplement line helps prostate cell determinants support and maintain healthy tissue, thereby encouraging healthy cell cycling, decreasing cellular oxidative damage, and improving bladder elasticity.
The prostate gland, located in the male reproductive system, produces most of the fluid contained in sperm and helps to mobilize and alkalize sperm. Palmettoplex combines nutrients from three different herbs, amino acids, and antioxidants that are all well known for supporting the prostate gland with prostate PMG™ extract to provide men with strong and natural genitourinary system support.
For more information, contact Standard Process Inc, 1200 W Royal Lee Dr, PO Box 904, Palmyra, Wl 53156-0904; 414-291-4910; 800-848-5061; fax: 262-495-2122; email: info@standardprocess.com; www.standardprocess.com.
Patient Billing Services
Flex Resources Inc offers patient billing services to handle all electronic medical claims via our computers and software programs. The claims are process through a central processing hub that edits, formats, and transmits each claim to the proper insurance carrier. Flex Resources is equipped with CPT and ICD-9 codes, providing computerized, customized billing for chiropractic practices.
Flex Resources utilizes a program called Accu-Checker to check treatment and diagnosis codes prior to submission of all claims to Medicare and other insurance carriers. If errors are detected, the billing center will correct and resubmit the claim at no additional cost.
Flex Resources will oversee claims and billing processing and provide financial analytical reports to improve practice management, which allows chiropractors to see more patients. This will help increase cash flow and reduce management time.
For more information, contact Flex Resources Inc, Patient Billing Division, 30 Montgomery St, Suite 620, Jersey City, NJ 07302; 201-332-2113; fax: 201-332-5665; email: jcmed@flexre sourcesinc.com.
Rehabilitation Gait Trainer
Ball Dynamics International, introduces The Movin’Step Gait Cushion, an air-filled cushion that provides balance and gait training for rehabilitation. The stair-step design simulates a stair stepper for general fitness use. The air chambers are fully adjustable turning a dial. The more air in the chamber, the more stability and less movement of stepper, while less air in the chamber provides balance challenge and proprioception.
The Movin’Step Gait Cusion is rehabilitation and general fitness tool for clinic as well as home-use and is lightweight and portable. It retails for less than $40.
For more information, contact Ball Dynamics International Inc, 14215 Mead St, Longmont, CO 80504; 800-752-2255; fax: 877-223-2962; www.ball dynamics.com.
Practice Management Software
DB Consultants Inc, publisher AS/PC® Practice Management System, announces the most recent addition to the national network of DBC® dealers—SunRise Systems & Solutions. SunRise Systems & Solutions is a DBC-authorized sales and training resource for new and existing AS/PC® users in the Midwest.
For more than 15 years, SunRise Systems & Solutions has provided technology services and problem-solving skills to medical business and billing offices in computer networking, training, and consulting.
DB Consultants Inc is a software publishing company based in Bucks County, Pa, publishing healthcare practice management software for more than 15 years. The company continues to support the DOS version of its software as well as its AS/PC for Windows® 98/NT/2000 version.
For more information, contact DB Consultants Inc, 198 Tabor Road, PO Box 580; Ottsville, PA 18942; 610-847-5065; fax: 610-847-2298; email: sales@db consultants.com; www.dbconsultants. com.
Online CE Credits
ChiroCredit.com introduces continuing education (CE) credits online. This website offers chiropractors the opportunity to receive CE credits at their convenience and in the comfort of their own home or office. Sponsored by the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic (UBCC), Conn—a CCE accredited college—ChiroCredit.com offers testing material relevant to chiropractic topics.
"Medical doctors have more than 100 sites where they can obtain online CE credits," says Richard Saporito, DC, director of postgraduate and continuing education at UBCC. "Offering online education or distance-based learning, was an idea whose time had come for our profession. This site is designed to offer quality chiropractic CE credits that meets material, time, and testing requirements."
Chiropractors can choose from nine topics including orthopedics, X-ray, nutrition, and pediatrics. Once a topic is chosen, a number of different tests are available. Each test is separated into five 10-minute sections. Each section includes an abstract review of a journal article or other referenced material, followed by a comments section of clinical insights and applicability written by a licensed chiropractor.
The timed component of each section is unique to ChiroCredit.com. This ensures that the doctor is on the testing material for the minimum amount of time to be eligible for 1 hour of continuing education credits. Currently, 17 states accept online CE credits and several others are in the approval process.
Chiropractors are faced with a number of obstacles such as distance, time, and costs when trying to obtain state-mandated CE credits. "It presents a quandary for those who are truly interested in farthering their education and providing the highest quality care for their patients," says Saporito. "ChiroCredit. com not only eliminates those worries, it enhances and improves the quality and retention of CE materials by allowing individual chiropractors choose topics and subject matter that is of most interest to them."
For more information, contact ChiroCredit, LLC, PO Box 632, Rocky HIll, CT 06067; 860-463-9003; email: chiroeducation@aol.com; www.chiro credit.com.
Stretch Device
OPTP offers the Stretch Out™ Strap that delivers the benefits of PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching without a partner. This type of stretching combines isotonic, isometric, and prolonged stretch. Alternating a stretch with a relax phase while using the Stretch Out Strap allows for flexibility and decreases risk of injury.
The Stretch Out Strap has a double-stitched series of loops for hands and feet that allow users to work progressively into a stretch. Each Stretch Out Strap comes with an updated stretching guide with more than 28 illustrations for the hamstrings, quads, inner, and outer thighs, back, sides, chest, and arms.
The Stretch Out Strap is also available in a package that includes a strap, stretching guide, and 17-minute video. The video shows how to effectively use the strap for stretching major muscle groups and explains techniques and principles of flexibility training. For quick reference, the Stretch Out laminated poster displays 20 stretches for various areas of the body.
For additional information, contact OPTP, PO Box 47009, Minneapolis, MN 55447; 800-367-7393; email: optp@att.net; www.optp.com.
Maternity Supports Display Poster
CMO Inc offers a four-color poster for display in retail and specialty stores that features the Loving Comfort™ family of maternity supports.
Loving Comfort maternity support provides relief from pain in the lower back and legs by lifting and supporting the abdomen to reduce pressure in the pelvic region. The support adjusts to accommodate growth throughout the entire pregnancy. Designed to wear under clothing for support throughout the day, Loving Comfort maternity support is made from soft, ventilated elastic for coolness and comfort.
In addition to Loving Comfort Maternity Support, CMO Inc offers Loving Comfort Breast Binder for gentle support while suppressing lactation and Loving Comfort Postpartum Support after natural delivery or C-Section.
For additional information, contact CMO Inc, 197 2nd St SW, Barberton, OH 44203; 330-745-9679; 800-344-0011; fax: 330-745-5913; www.cmo-inc.com.
Heart Rate Monitors
Polar Electro Inc announces a new line of heart rate monitors developed to give rehabilitation patients an advantage in reaching personal exercise prescription goals.
While the A-series helps patients, it is also designed to create an additional revenue stream for clinics, hospitals, and wellness centers. Replacing Polar’s Beat, Target, and Pacer units, the A-series with enhanced capabilities can command an attractive margin, while maintaining a suggested retail price of $49.99–$109.99.
The Polar A-Series incorporates features that are easy to use. For example, the A5 offers a Self Walk Test to measure the user’s cardiovascular fitness level, while the A3 has the Zone Pointer—a visual reference of the user’s target heart rate zone. The A1 is the simplest model, providing a continuous heart rate reading. Each unit also has an exercise timer and records the average heart rate and total exercise time—data that indicates the optimum exercise efficiency zone.
For additional information, contact Polar Electro Inc, 370 Crossways Park Dr, Woodbury, NY 11797; 800-290-6330; www.polarusa.com.
Menopause Formula
Natural Balance offers Ladies Choice Menopause Formula, a blend of ingredients to help maintain healthy estrogen activity during mid-life and relieve the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, and moodiness.
Estrogen-rich pomengranate seed is combined with soy isoflavones, vitamin E, and potent botanicals including black cohosh, dong quai, and vitex. To complement the phytoestrogenic activity of these herbs, Ladies Choice also contains Protykin transresveratrol to relieve the symptoms of menopause. With the addition of kava kava, Ladies Choice provides a comprehensive approach for maintaining physical and emotional well-being at mid-life.
For additional information, contact Natural Balance, 3155 N Commerce Ct, Castle Rock, CO 80104; 800-833-8737; email: feedback@naturalbalance.com; www.natural balance.com.
Herbal Remedy Guide
Avery/Putnam announces the availability of Secrets of Native American Remedies: A Comprehensive Guide to the Native American Tradition of Using Herbs and the Mind/Body/Spirit Connection for Improving Health and Well-Being by Anthony J. Cichoke, DC, PhD.
Native Americans have used herbs medicinally for thousands of years, as part of an integrated mind/body/spirit approach to good health. In his book, Cichoke reveals a variety of Native American herbal remedies to treat illnesses, heal injuries, and promote wellness. The guide offers relief suggestions for people experiencing back pain, bee stings, common colds, hair loss, bruises, depression, and insomnia.
Secrets of Native American Herbal Remedies also offers antidotes to stress, PMS, chronic fatigue syndrome, mononucleosis, mumps, measles, macular degeneration, prostate problems, varicose veins, and more. The book features A to Z guides, information on herbal suppliers, and a complementary Five-Step Jump-Start Plan that includes detoxification strategies such as sweat lodges and fasting.
Cichoke is a chiropractor with a doctorate in nutrition who hosts a syndicated radio talk show called "The Dr Enzyme Self-HELP Show." He has written more than 15 books, including The Complete Book of Enzyme Therapy for Avery, and more than 300 articles on the subjects of health care, nutrition, enzymes, and chiropractic.
For additional information, contact Avery/Putnam, 375 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014; 212-366-2519; www.penguin putnam.com.
Children’s Educational Materials
Back Talk Systems introduces products for doctors to teach children about chiropractic and its benefits.
Based on information from pediatric chiropractors in the profession, Back Talk Systems has written and produced a 3-D animated video, "Chiropractic For Beginners," that follows a child through his first chiropractic visit.
complement the video, Back Talk has created a 20-page take-home brochure that explains how chiropractic works using words and pictures for children to understand. The "Chiropractic for Beginners" brochure is a fun, colorful addition to your brochure rack and shows parents that the practice cares about kids. There is a space on the back for a clinic sticker or stamp to encourage referrals.
For additional information, contact Back Talk Systems, 14998 W 6th Ave, Suite 500, Golden, CO 80401; 303-277-9990; 800-937-3113; fax: 800-696-1165; www.backtalksystems.com.
Expert Witness Certification
The American Academy of Medical-Legal Expert Witnesses with HealthCare and Legal Review Consultants, Florida Chiropractic Physicians Association, and Global Medical Diagnostics offer Medical-Legal Issues for Physicians Expert Witness Certification Course. All modules are taught by experts in their respective field, i.e., chiropractors, attorneys, law enforcement officers.
Dates for the courses offered in Orlando, Fla, on Sat 8–12, 1–5 pm and Sun 8–12 pm are: Sept 8–9, 2001; Oct 6-7, 2001; Nov 3–4, 2001; Dec 1–2, 2001; and Jan 12–13, 2002. Courses will be offered in Los Angeles from Jan–May, 2002.
A few topics for Modules 1–5 are: tort law, medical consents, accident investigation, expert witness testimony, and civil trial practice. The expert witness examination is given after Module 5.
The fee is $195 per module, $175 each for two or more modules, or $600 for all five modules.
For more information, contact HealthCare and Legal Review Consultants, 908 Red Fox Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714; 407-682-6041; 800-214-7622, ext 1057; fax: 407-682-3408; email: backdoc2@prodigy.net; website: www. medicallawjd.com.
Scholarship Awards
Performance Health Inc, the makers of Biofreeze pain-relieving gels and lotions, is working with Logan Chiropractic College to launch the Biofreeze Scholarship Program.
The following students were awarded the first Biofreeze Scholarships: Kelly Miller, Ben Watson, Kim Carpenter, John Razzaro, Michael Tremba, and Kristy Ward. The students were chosen based on criteria agreed upon between Logan College and Performance Health.
For additional information, contact Performance Health Inc, 1303 N State Rd 7, Suite 6, 2nd Floor, Margatem FL 33063; 954-957-9370; 800-BIOFREEZE; fax: 954-957-9372; email: pisenberg@ biofreeze.com; www.biofreeze.com.
Management Seminars
Kats Management invites doctors and staff to attend a complimentary weekend seminar.
Kats Management provides seminars to explain its procedures and address the ever-changing health care field. The seminars have basic and advanced classes for both doctors and CAs.
The advanced classes cover information that is relative to today’s practice, such as managed care, referrals from medical doctors, integrating alternative healthcare, and new patient acquisition in a managed care environment. Other featured seminar topics include: new patients, patient retention, financial freedom, practice management, practice plateaus, and personal growth.
For additional information, contact Kats Management, 7120 S 29th St, Lincoln, NE 68516; 800-843-9162; fax: 402-420-2029; www.katsmanagement. com.
Product Catalog
Ball Dynamics International announces its latest product catalog. Ball Dynamics offers a comprehensive line of products and educational materials used in fitness, wellness, and rehabilitation settings for balance and stability, strengthening, sensory, and positioning.
There are several new additions to this year’s line of Ball Dynamics products and services. An expanded line of Gymnic® Plus Exercise balls provides added safety in ball usage by providing materials that resist tearing if punctured. Fitball® Certification programs include the latest techniques in ball fitness and therapy programs for professionals. Certification programs are held at various times and locations throughout the US.
The Fitball Body Therapy Small Ball Release Program provides comprehensive instruction for both muscular and interconnective tissue release through the use of small, flexible balls. This program is suitable for most fitness levels and for targeting the pelvis, lower back, middle back, chest, neck, and shoulders. A wider selection of mat products for home, clinic and gym use is also available. Expanded, too, are the resistance exercise products, including exercise bands, tubing and weighted bars.
For additional information, contact Ball Dynamics International, 14215 Mead St, Longmont, CO 80504; 800-752-2255, fax: 877-223-2962; www. balldynamics.com.
Iron-Free Supplement
Nature’s Life introduces its Mega-Pak multiple. These supplements come packaged in individual daily servings to provide a convenient alternative to busy people.
One packet contains 37 nutrients including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and phytonutrients from natural sources. Special care is given to the inclusion of the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E. The product comes in a self-dispensing box or a can for active adults.
Iron toxicity is a common problem with adults, especially among men and post-menopausal women. This iron-free supplement program offers a way to obtain daily nutrition without adding this potentially dangerous mineral.
For additional information, contact Nature’s Life, 7180 Lampson Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92841-3914; 714-379-6500; 800-854-6837; fax: 800-864-7744; email: custsvc@natlife.com; www.natlife.com.
Herbal Capsule
NOW Foods adds Fenugreek capsules to its herb line. Fenugreek is one of the oldest herbs traditionally used in ancient Greece, Egypt, and China. Each capsule is filled with 500mg of seed powder. Fenugreek is primarily grown in India and is thoroughly tested for impurities. NOW Fenugreek can be purchased at local health food stores across the nation.
For additional information, contact NOW Foods, 395 S Glen Ellyn Rd, Bloomingdale, IL 60108; 630-545-9098.
Knee Wrap
United Pacific Inc expands its line of knee pain relief products to include a Thermoskin Knee Wrap Stabilizer model for increased support associated with knee injuries or pain.
The Knee Wrap Stabilizer is designed to be user-friendly and durable for patients suffering from chronic pain. The full anterior opening ensures quick application requiring minimal exertion. The support allows for comfort and reflex by utilizing a popliteal cutout at the back of the knee. The support is adjustable with two quick-release Velcro® closure tabs. Even with increased reflexivity, the knee wrap stabilizes the region and reduces the possibility of the support moving during regular activities.
Thermoskin is made up of three layers. The durable outer fabric binds the product together. The middle layer is a non-porous rubberized material. The inner layer, which is the Trioxon material, provides therapy support. Trioxon features a spiral structure that creates a micro-climate for the skin to ventilate by wicking away moisture and does not close off the pores of the skin. Like the other Thermoskin products, this pain relief product for the knee raises skin temperature 2° to 3° F and provides warmth that creates the natural healing process of the body.
For additional information, contact United Pacific Inc, PO Box 23585, Columbia, SC 29224; 803-735-0034; 800-706-1520; fax: 803-735-3002; email: thermoskin@mindspring.com; www.ther moskin.com.
Patient Education
Dennis R. Buckley, DC, who has been a staff writer for his local newspaper the past two years, makes his articles available to the chiropractic profession. These articles can be customized with your own byline and submitted to your local paper enabling you to be the natural health writer for your area. These articles are short, one-page articles that can be used as patient hand-outs, newsletter copy, or marketing materials to educate the public. The articles are on two discs in text and Word® format. There are approximately 80 articles, and the cost is $75.
For additional information, contact Dennis R. Buckley, DC, 626-792-3390; email: TriDocD@aol.com.
Therapeutic Applicator
Preferred Medical Products Inc announces the Soother™, a method of applying therapeutic hot and cold that is designed for chiropractors who treat patients with whiplash or other trauma and TMJ pain.
Made of polyethylene material and featuring hot/cold packs, the Soother is right for hot or cold applications. Hot/cold packs are reusable and can be purchased from Preferred Medical Products Inc.
For additional information, contact Preferred Medical Products Inc, 1530 McDaniel Dr, West Chester, PA 19380; 610-719-6027; 800-295-0378; fax: 610-719-6028; www.tmjcen tral.com.
Software Upgrade
Biodex Medical Systems Inc announces the release of software v3.2, a performance upgrade for the Multi-Joint System 3.
Software v3.2 is standard on all new Multi-Joint System 3 units and offers features including: advanced testing and exercise capabilities in all modes (with an increased number of recorded exercise sets), improved biofeedback, automated ROM, and an enhanced dBase manager to streamline patient record keeping and reporting.
The Biodex Multi-Joint System 3 offers a way to identify, treat, and document physical impairments that cause functional limitations.
For more information, contact Biodex Medical Systems Inc, 20 Ramsay Rd, Box 702, Shirley, NY 11967-0702; 631-924-9000; 800-224-6339; fax: 631-924-9338; email: sales@biodex.com; www.biodex.com.
Website and CD Catalogs
PEL Supply Co publishes print and electronic catalogs featuring more than 35,000 products, components, tools, and accessories from health care product manufacturers.
All catalogs are now being converted to a CD format for those who prefer electronic catalogs. In addition, the new interactive website, www.pelsupply.com, allows customers 24-hour access to information about the company and its products. Once registered, PEL customers can order products directly online. PEL’S discount program also includes items ordered from the website.
For additional information, contact PEL Supply Co, 4666 Manufacturing Rd, Cleveland, OH 44135-2672; 216-267-5775; 800-321-1264; fax: 800-222-6176; email: customerservice@ pelsupply.com; www.pelsupply.com.
Seratonin Study
InterHealth Nutraceuticals, maker of CitriMax™ and Super CitriMax™, has recently filed a new patent on its Super CitriMax product relating to its ability to increase brain serotonin levels and, thus, help reduce appetite, treat sleeping disorders, control mood swings, and boost other serotonin-related functions in the body.
The study, which was designed to explain how Super CitriMax controls appetite, was conducted at the Creighton University School of Pharmacy & Allied Health Professions (Ornaha, Neb) and presented at the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) 2001 meeting in Orlando, Fla.
Earlier studies have shown that HCA, extracted from the South Asian fruit Garcinia cambogia, helps reduce appetite and inhibit fat production. In addition, previous animal and human studies have linked increased levels of serotonin with appetite suppression.
Thus, this study examined the possible effect of HCA on the release of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter involved in various psychological functions in the body, including sleep, mood, and appetite. The study found that animal brain cells exposed to Super CitriMax increased serotonin levels by as much as 40% as compared to the control group. They further found that the results were dose dependent.
Both CitriMax and Super CitriMax are value-added dietary ingredients available in a variety of dietary supplements and nutraceutical food and beverage products.
For additional information, contact InterHealth Nutraceuticals, 5451 Industrial Way, Benicia, CA 94510; 707-751-2800; 800-783-4636; fax: 707-751-2801; www.interhealthusa.com.
National Chiropractic Campaign
Foot Levelers Inc plans to launch a national public relations campaignearly next year to increase public awareness of the benefits of chiropractic care.
Since Foot Levelers’ founding in 1952, it focused on promoting and serving chiropractors and their patients. This upcoming campaign will kick off Foot Levelers 50th anniversary by continuing this tradition.
Foot Levelers has retained a public relations firm to assist with the campaign that will target national consumer magazines, newspapers, major regional publications, and all of the national news wire services. The campaign will emphasize whole body wellness and explain how chiropractors can help patients with common problems.
For additional information, contact Foot Levelers Inc, 518 Pocahontas Ave NE, PO Box 12611, Roanoke, VA 24027-2611; 800-553-4860; fax: 540-345-0202; www.footlevelers.com.
Shoulder Rope Pulley
NZ Manufacturing Inc offers rehabilitation tubing kits, and the MediCordz® Shoulder Rope Pulley, designed for upper extremity passive range of motion and shoulder mobility. It comes complete with nylon cord, handles, free moving pulley, and mounting strap for use in door jams.
The MediCordz product line consists of interchangeable tubing kits for the neck, back, shoulder, and knee. In addition to joint-specific kits, a complete array of modular tubing, straps, belts, handles, wrist supports, headsets, and mounting systems are available.
For additional information, contact NZ Manufacturing Inc, 3502 C St NE, Auburn, WA 98002; 800-886-6621; fax: 866-320-3653; info@nzmfg.com; www.nzmfg.com.
Inflatable Pillow
Core Products International Inc introduces the Air-Core™ Adjustable Pillow, a version of the Tri-Core® Cervial Support Pillow with an inflatable lobe to help reduce cervical shock.
The Air-Core uses the same design as the Tri-Core, with a trapezoid center and antimicrobial fiber, but allows the user greater flexibility in adjusting to a cervical support pillow.
The lobe enables the user to increase or decrease the size of the lobe by squeezing a hand pump. This allows for varying levels of support and can be used to adjust to a cervical support pillow, decreasing the incidence of cervical shock.
The Air-Core offers traditional fiber support in its second lobe. With its raised side panels, this pillow provides comfort and support for both back and side sleeping. The pillow also includes the Fortrel® BactiShield® antimicrobial fiber used in the pillow. The fiber combats the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms, and promotes freshness.
For additional information, contact Core Products International Inc, 808 Prospect Ave, Osceola, WI 54020; 715-294-2050; 800-365-3047; fax: 715-294-2622; email: info@coreproducts.com; www.coreproducts.com.
Training Seminars
DB Consultants Inc offers training seminars to provide practitioners with a productive, yet affordable solution for training their staff to use DB Consultants’ AS/PC® practice management software.
These training seminars are conducted by Doug Albaugh, former college professor, and full-time AS/PC Software expert. With more than a decade of seminar experience training staff in seminars as well as in private, on-site sessions, Albaugh says the seminars use tne optimum presentation format for computer software group instruction. During the seminar, the program runs live, projected on a large screen via video projector, and instruction is paced for easy understanding and note-taking.
Seminars are limited in size to 10 to 25 AS/PC users to ensure personal attention, and include both new and experienced users. This diversity encourages users at all levels to share and exchange ideas and solutions. In addition, each session includes a day spent on AS/PC basics, including most financial aspects of the program, and a day devoted to the more advanced features available in AS/PC software.
For additional information, contact DB Consultants Inc, 198 Tabor Rd, PO Box 580, Ottsville, PA 18942; 610-847-5065; fax: 610-847-2298; sales@dbconsul tants.com; www.dbconsultants.com.
Topical Skin Refrigerant
The Gebauer Co introduces Fluori-Methane®, a non-flammable topical skin refrigerant to control pain by cooling and numbing skin.
Gebauer’s Fluori-Methane is used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and sports trainers in conjunction with the spray-and-stretch technique to relieve myofascial pain, muscle spasm, and restricted motion. Practitioners sweep a stream of Gebauer’s Fluori-Methane across the spasm or irritated trigger point, then passively stretch the affected muscles. Conditions that may respond to this technique include low back pain due to tight muscles, acute stiff neck, torticollis, acute bursitis of the shoulder, tight hamstrings, sprained ankle, tight masseter muscles, and referred pain due to irritated trigger points.
Gebauer’s Fluori-Methane also acts as an instant, pre-injection anesthesia. A 3- to 7-second spray immediately prior to injection controls pain and helps to calm anxieties. It can also be used to relieve the pain of minor sprains or sports injuries such as bruises, contusions, sprains, and minor swelling.
For additional information, contact Gebauer Co, 9410 St Catherine Ave, Cleveland, OH 44104; 800-321-9348; www. gebauerco.com.
Ankle Brace
Core Products International Inc introduces its new ankle brace, Quik-Tie™ Ankle Brace, which provides support without laces. The patent-pending Quik-Tie ankle brace uses a speed lacing system that incorporates the benefits of laces into two sets of adjusting tabs. The larger set of tabs, used to fit the brace to your ankle, is matched with a smaller set of tabs, which can be adjusted for fit and support. In combination, these tabs provide a personalized fit every time.
This brace also incorporates a center wedge that allows for greater flexion and extension while maintaining proper support. Spiral stays and tough fabric construction also add support. A soft, resilient fabric provides an extremely comfortable fit over the achilles tendon. Seamless construction along the bottom adds additional comfort.
Without laces to tie, this brace is easy to put on and comfortable to wear. Ideal for sports and home, it aids in the prevention of ankle injury and supplements the ankle’s muscles and ligaments. It can be used for weak or tired ankles, or after minor injury to remove some of the strain on the joint during healing.
For more information, contact Core Products International Inc, 808 Prospect Ave, Osceola, WI 54020; 715-294-2050; 800-365-3047; fax: 715-294-2622; email: info@coreproducts. com; www.coreproducts.com.
Colostrum Supplements
New Millennium Health & Nutrition introduces its Doctor’s Choice Colostrum™ nutritional supplements developed for licensed health care practitioners.
This OU Kosher-certified Colostrum line features New Zealand’s finest Grade 1 low-heat processed Colostrum known as NZGold™ and is available in capsules, chewable tablets, 100% pure powder, and two drink mixes—Immuno Boost™ and Immuno Boost PLUS™. Colostrum is neither a plant nor an herb, but it is the fluid secreted by a cow’s mammary glands after birth and pre-milk. Rich in immune factors, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it provides a broad range of immune enhancing properties.
The NZGold Colostrum used in Doctor’s Choice products is collected from specially-selected, range- fed cows that graze yearlong on New Zealand pastures. The Doctor’s Choice Colostrum line consists of five individual products, each of which is formulated for broad health application.
For additional information, contact New Millennium Health & Nutrition, 866-DOC-ONLY; email: info@doctorschoice. com; www.doctors-choice.com.
Achilles Tendon Support
AliMed offers the Achilles Tendon Walker, which immobolizes the foot and ankle while allowing for protected ambulation. The internal hind foot wedge initially positions the foot at 30° of plantar flexion. The supportive angle stabilizes the achilles tendon for limited ambulation. As recovery progresses, plantar flexion is decreased in 1/8" increments by peeling a layer from the base of the wedge. Adjustments are made quickly and effectively.
The Achilles Tendon Walker’stri-level insole has an adjustable 5-cm mid-wedge. These layers allow the user to progressively control ankle plantar flexion during the healing process. The top sole has a heel-centering profile and Nickleplast™ base for protection.
For additional information, contact AliMed Inc, 297 High St, Dedham, MA 02062; 781-329-2900; 800-225-2610; fax: 800-437-2966; email: info@alimed. com; www.alimed.com.
Magnetic Therapy System
ComfortSmith™ introduces MagnaPatch™, a site-specific, magnetic therapy patch system.
Designed for the active individual, MagnaPatch is a self-adhesive magnetic therapy patch system that provides direct relief to the site of pain, while allowing for complete range of motion. Its pressure-sensitive adhesive, Hypoflex™, is durable enough to withstand exercise, perspiration, and showering, yet gentle enough to be worn for days at a time without causing skin irritation. It is safe, easy to use, odorless, and hypoallergenic.
This posttreatment care is available in three anatomically designed patches—spine, joint, and finger—to assist the doctor in targeting hard to reach areas. MagnaPatch comes packaged to the chiropractor in professional-use and retail kits. Professional-use kits allow the doctor to place individual patches on the patient prior to leaving the office. Retail kits, beginning at under $10, offer the patient continuous, cost-effective care between visits.
For additional information, contact ComfortSmith, PO Box 7153, Madison, WI 53707-7153; 800-807-7175; fax: 203-384-1932; www.comfortsmith. com.
Infrared Treatment Device
Comtec Health introduces the Smarty, a far infrared treatment device that offers a new method of pretreatment.
The Smarty uses far infrared therapy, produced by black carbon heaters designed to match the body’s natural wavelength to relax joints and muscles and also remove heavy metals, dioxins and other toxic materials stored in the sebaceous glands.
Jim Wilmerding, DC, of Mount Shasta, Calif, has been using the Smarty in his practice for several months. Wilmerding says, "I have set the Smarty up in a room where my patients receive therapy prior to spinal manipulation. They receive treatment in the Smarty for 10 minutes, and the results have been great."
For additional information, contact Comtec Health, 1500 Mott Rd, Mount Shasta, CA 96067; 800-795-5925; email: smartyinfo@comtec.net; www.comtec. net/smarty.html.
Neuropathy Documentation Instrument
Connecticut Bioinstruments Inc introduces West-D™, a simple, inexpensive, and objective instrument to document the effects of treatment on the degree of peripheral neuropathy. By using the West-D to evaluate tactile sensation, the chiropractor documents the effects of treatment quickly and inexpensively.
For additional information, contact Connecticut Bioinstruments Inc, PO Box 2567, Danbury, CT 06813; 800-336-1935; email: softip@cbi-pace.com; www. cbi-pace.com/cbi.htm.
New Patient Videos
Patient Media introduces William Esteb’s patient education videos, which includes three videos. The first is a 5-minute first-visit orientation video featuring current chiropractic patients describing what new patients can expect on the first visit.
The second 7-minute video should be shown prior to patients’ report of findings. Patients learn the supremacy of the nervous system, causes of subluxations, effects of subluxations, the results of neglect, and ways to maximize the benefits of their chiropractic care.
The third video, also 7 minutes in length, is a progress exam/wellness video. Not only does the video prepare patients for their progress examination report, but patients also learn the dangers of discontinuing care prematurely, the value of pediatric chiropractic care, and the responsibility of telling others.
All three videos feature the informative, sometimes emotional observations of actual chiropractic patients. "We interviewed over 50 articulate patients for these videos," says Esteb. "A new patient is put at ease by hearing other patients who vouch for the safety, effectiveness, and value of chiropractic care?"
"I knew these videos had to be short and to the point," says Esteb. "Most patients aren’t interested in learning about the Vertebral Subluxation Complex. So the big words are gone and we’ve returned to a simpler message." A good example of this simpler approach is the use of the term "spinal decay" instead of the more complicated "subluxation degeneration."
"We recognize that some doctors prefer a one-visit video protocol," observes Esteb. "So we took the essential points of our first-visit orientation video and second-visit pre-report video to create a single combination video. It’s something that can be shown on the first or second visit."
The new Patient Media videos and coordinated printed materials can be previewed by requesting a demonstration kit with a $25 refundable deposit. Patient Media is offering discounts for those who have purchased previous Esteb videos.
For more information, contact Patient Media Inc, 860 Commercial Ln, Palmer Lake, CO 80133; 719-488-6663; 800-486-2337; www.patientmedica. com.
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