A guide featuring the latest products and services
Instruction Manual
OPTP introduces The Upper Body Book, an instruction manual written by Carol L. De Franca, DC, and Craig Liebenson, DC.
The book helps those suffering from pain, discomfort, or lack of motion in the neck, upper back, or shoulder. It is also useful for anyone wanting to improve posture, flexibility, strength, and endurance in the upper body.
The manual is broken down into three partspart A: the basics addresses the purpose of the manual; part B: self treatment and exercise goes over postural correction, respiration, flexibility/mobility, spinal yoga, re-education exercises, and specific rotator cuff rehabilitation; part C: practical issues answers questions on finding a health care provider and an index of exercises.
The book includes 50 illustrated pages of high quality, yet inexpensive, patient education material.
For more information, contact OPTP, PO Box 47009, Minneapolis, MN 55447-0009; 763-553-0452; 800-367-7393; fax: 763-553-9355; email: optp@att.net; www. optp.com. CP
Health Test
Oxyfresh Worldwide introduces the PinPoint Nutritional and Heavy Metals Test.
This mail-in laboratory urine test identifies the presence of Mercury and seven other heavy and toxic metals. It also tests for potential nutritional imbalances in 13 major organs. The test evaluates the bodys pH alkalinity and the levels of 70 mineral elements essential for good health. The test is performed on a Perkin Elmer ICP Mass Spectrometer.
A comprehensive lab report details each patients nutritional needs, deficiencies, and toxic excesses, allowing for personally tailored nutritional targeting. A complete line of nutritional products that specifically address the tests findings aimed at restoring nutritional balance are also available from Oxyfresh for dispensing through the chiropractic practice.
For additional information, contact Oxyfresh Worldwide, 2275 Bellmore Ave, Bellmore, NY 11710; 877-804-3073; email: eastbaychiro2225@aol.com; www.oxyfreshww.com. CP
Patient Appreciation Day
Foot Levelers Inc and the Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research (FCER) are joining forces to promote FCERs Patient Appreciation Day to be held on Valentines Day, 2002.
Patient Appreciation Day is an opportunity for chiropractors to raise funds for chiropractic research while building their patient base. Participating doctors will donate all (or a portion) of the money received for their services on Valentines Day to the FCER. Foot Levelers is donating some of their new Step-by-Step Practice Building Kits to be raffled off to five participating doctors.
FCER promotes the health and well-being of humanity by encouraging and supporting research and education and to provide information needed to document and improve health care capacity worldwide. For a Patient Appreciation media kit, call 800-622-6309.
For additional information, contact Foot Levelers Inc, PO Box 12611, Roanoke, VA 24027-2611; 800-553-4860; www.footlevelers.com. CP
Exercise Program Software
Kim Christensen, DC, CCSP, DACRB, offers free trial versions of his rehab protocols on CD. This includes more than 40 specific spine and extremity exercise protocols encompassing more than 500 isolated exercises.
The CD is a software program for chiropractors to produce color photo exercise handouts. Users can define exercise protocols applicable to each patient. Easy to use and customize, no computer experience is necessary.
The CD contains hundreds of spinal and extremity exercises for every body part. Exercises are further divided into every anatomical exercise motion including educational and functional patterns along with the ability to select range-of-motion, stabilization, strengthening, or stretching routines. Exercise resistance is demonstrated with active assistance and resistance, cuff weights, dumbbells, isometric, resistance bands, and therapy balls. Exercises can be selected in the seated, sidelying, standing, supine, prone, kneeling, half-kneeling, quadruped, or bridging position.
The patient takes home printed descriptions of what to do at home or while in the providers direct supervision. The output is clear with concise instructions and live photographs depicting proper techniques.
For additional information, contact Chiropractic Rehab Consulting Services, 18604 NW 64th Ave, Ridgefield, WA 98642; 888-284-3365; email: kimdchris tensen@hotmail.com. CP
Chiropractic Stamp
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) officially endorsed the Chiropractic Postage Stamp Project with a letter to the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee urging that a chiropractic postage stamp be approved.
Each year, the United States Postal Service receives approximately 40,000 proposals recommending subjects for stamps. The suggestions are evaluated by the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee-comprised of 15 Americans from all walks of lifewho meet four times a year in Washington.
The committee judges how much public support the stamp will receive. They look for subjects that will, in the words of the US Postal Service, "have broad national interest." To be successful, a stamp proposal needs to be backed by thousands of letters over an extended period of time. The Postmaster General, relying heavily on the committees recommendations, makes the final decisions.
There are several ways to get involved to ensure the chiropractic postage stamp becomes a reality. The Chiropractic Task Force (516-829-8578; email: gnbhchiro@earthlink.com) is distributing packets of 100 pre-printed postcards. Those interested are encouraged to write letters every month until the chiropractic stamp is accepted. Letters should be sent to: Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee, US Postal Service, Stamp Development, Room 5670, 475 LEnfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20260-2437.
For additional information, contact James Edwards, DC, email: jamesedwards@jamesedwards.com; www.acatoday.com/hot_topics/110801.html. CP
CD-ROM Software
The Saunders Group Inc, manufacturers of rehabilitation products, introduces Tools RG, a CD-ROM software product.
The software enables users to create custom education and exercise handouts for patents and clients. The program allows a health care professional to develop and store protocols and client-specific information. Instructions can be customized and stored for any exercise, but some are also supplied. More than 25 Saunders and PhysioTools content modules are available on the new RG platform.
Tools RG offers cost-effective pricing, Saunders and PhysioTools exercises, flexible features, and user-friendly software. The modules do not require a base module. Each RG comes professionally packaged in a case including a CD and Quick Guide.
For additional information, contact The Saunders Group Inc, 4230 Norex Dr, Chaska, MN 35318-3047; 952-368-9214; 800-778-1870; fax: 952-368-9249; www.toolsrg.com. CP
CTS Presentation
David Singer Enterprises Inc introduces a slide presentation titled, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Presenting a Multi-Faceted Approach for Repetitive Strain.
People who work in repetitive-motion professions are more likely to suffer with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This presentation educates viewers about CTS, its causes, industries that experience the most cases, the drawbacks of surgeries, how chiropractic can help, what habits aggravate CTS, prevention on injury, and information on recovering from CTS.
The series includes 64 color slides, a manual that contains a script to match the slides, and research studies about CTS and alternative treatments. This slide presentation comes with a 50-day money-back guarantee.
For additional information, contact David Singer Enterprises Inc, 1150 Cleveland St, Suite 210, Clearwater, FL 55755; 800-326-1797, fax: 727-449-1353; email: success@dse-inc.com; www.david singer.org. CP
Anatomy Glass
VenturaDesigns introduces AnatomyGlass, a collection of laser-etched, 3D anatomy glass objects.
The 3D image within a piece of optically clear, solid crystal is created by a scientific-class laser driven by computer software and 3D anatomy files. Following a precise sequence, tens of thousands of imploded dots form a design. It takes 2 hours and 24,564 laser dots to make each spine Anatomy Glass.
The laser leaves no marks or blemishes on the surface of the crystal, and the intricate design is viewed much like a 3D sculpture. Beams of light are refracted in thousands of directions, creating a dramatic presentation.
AnatomyGlass is designed for desktop, bookcase, or tabletop display. Each Anatomy-Glass comes individually packaged, complete with a certificate of authenticity.
The cost is $199 plus s/h with an optional light base for $75. It is 3" x 17/8" x 17/8" and weighs 1.2 lbs.
For additional information, contact VenturaDesigns, 16612 W 132nd St, Olathe, KS 66062; 913-829-0404; fax: 734-758-7056; www.anatomyglass .com. CP
Wrist Splint
CMO Inc adds the Deluxe Cock-Up Wrist Splint to its line of orthopedic supports and braces.
The wrist splint is designed for with palmar and dorsal stays to position and stabilize the wrist and hand to alleviate wrist pain. The suede finish and thick felt lining are comfortable for the user. Durable, perforated vinyl offers breathability during use. A single-pull closure makes the wrist splint easy to adjust and close without assistance.
The splint is available in extra-small through extra-large sizes for the right or left hand.
For more information, contact CMO Inc, 197 2nd Street SW, Barberton, 0H 44203; 330-745-9679; 800-344-0011; fax: 330-745-5913; www.cmo-inc.com. CP
Website
Qpuncture Inc announces the launch of its newly designed website.
The website features new columns such as Q-Hospital, which is broken down into five categories titled Library, Q-Clinic, Lecture, Health, and OM First Aid. Another new column, Media, contains updated information on seminars and events, articles, specialists, and laws pertaining to acupuncture.
New herbal products and acupuncture supplies are available. With the new shopping bag feature, users can add or delete items to the bag and checkout when ready. The site is secured with SSL encryption so that credit card information cannot be viewed or retrieved by anyone.
The Referral Directory has also been modified. Now, at the convenience of home or office, you can add, modify, or delete your clinic on the directory at no cost.
For additional information, contact Qpuncture Inc, 3200 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1410 NT, Los Angeles, CA 90010; 213-427-2555; 800-650-8222; fax: 213-427-4052; email: info@qpuncture.com; www.qpuncture.com. CP
Expert Witness Certification
Southeast Diagnostics Inc, Biocodex Nutrition, HealthCare and Legal Review Consultants, and Florida Chiropractic Physicians Association offer Medical-Legal Issues for Physicians Expert Witness Certification Course. All modules are taught by experts in their respective field, ie, chiropractors, attorneys, law enforcement officers.
Courses are offered in Orlando, Fla, on Sat 8am8pm (12 hours) for Module 4: Dec 1, 2001; Module 5: Jan 12, 2002; Module 6: Feb 9, 2002; Module 1: Mar 2, 2002; Module 2: Apr 6, 2002; Module 3: May 4, 2002; and Modules 46: TBA. 2002 courses will be offered in Ft Lauderdale, Fla.
The fee is $195 per module, $175 each for two or more modules, or $600 for all six 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. CP
Coding Solutions
The American Chiropractic Associations (ACA) Official Chiropractic Coding Solutions 2002 has been revised and expanded to offer a more comprehensive coding resource.
This years edition features critical coverage of CCI edit relief and how to handle increased claim denials. The ACA has taken strong action to alleviate the edit conflicts with correct CPT coding policy. Several initiatives are in place, from insisting that Medicare remove the edits completely, to dealing with individual insurers to overturn incorrect edits in their software.
New features include a HIPAA section, an expanded diagnosis section, updated ABN information, and the entire text on CD-ROM. This coding book covers Federal Workers Compensation and has been approved by ACAs coding and reimbursement team of experts. This expert panel includes two doctors who participate in the American Medical Association CPT committee process.
Doctors can expand their coding knowledge by subscribing to ACA Addendum, a series of quarterly breaking news updates on coding, HIPAA, and Medicare.
For additional information, contact the American Chiropractic Association, 704 E 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309; 800-368-3083; fax: 515-282-3347; www. shopaca.com. CP
Progesterone Cream
DaVinci Laboratories, the maker of Perna Plus and Simple Steps weight management program, introduces Natural Progesterone Transdermal Cream, a supplement for women.
Each 2-oz tube contains 1,200 mg of soy-derived progesterone in a proprietary blend of saw palmetto, don quai, cramp bark, sarsaparilla, avocado-carrot, and lemon grass oil. The cream also includes vitamins A and E.
The progesterone transdermal cream works safely with the body to support a womans menstrual cycle, sex drive, fat-burning capabilities, and may improve carbohydrate metabolism, brain function, and sleep patterns.
For additional information, contact DaVinci Laboratories, 20 New England Dr, Essex Junction, VT 05453; 802-878-5508; www.food sciencecorp.com. CP
Knee Support
Mastercare introduces a knee support that enables the user to keep knees bent while using the companys Back-A-Traction in supine position.
Back-A-Tractions patented sliding backrest uses body motion and weight to create a traction effect on crucial muscles and joints of the back and realigns the pelvis. In 15 and 30-degree inversion, supine or prone position, the backrest offers comfortable, natural relief for ankle-knee-hip dysfunctions, joint stiffness and inflammation, nerve-root and pelvic pressure, muscle spasm, shoulder stiffness, sciatica, and low-back and neck pain.
For additional information, contact Swedish Backcare System Inc, Plaza South, Suite 106, 4475 US 1 Hwy S, St Augustine, FL 32086; 904-797-BACK; fax: 904-797-7222; www.mastercare.se. CP
Joint Supports
CMO Inc introduces OrthoKnit knee, ankle, and elbow supports.
Lightweight OrthoKnit is a latex-free, cylindrically knitted material that is cool and comfortable. The supports deliver consistent, even compression and are designed for conditions requiring light to moderate support. CMO has incorporated a visco-elastic buttress in the knee and ankle supports and a compressive, protective visco-elastic insert in the elbow support. Each of the OrthoKnit products is manufactured to exact size and has no seams to chafe or irritate skin.
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. CP
Ergonomic Bags
AirPacks offers bags designed to reduce compressional loading of the acromio-clavicular joints and stress on the trapezius muscles.
The biomechanical design reduces the risk of impingement problems. The packs air-filled lumbar cushion redistributes the weight of the pack to the lower extremities, creating a fulcrum that facilitates an upright standing position. As a result, the user stands posturally correct, improving the overall biomechanics of the spine.
The company offers shoulder bag/briefcases in addition to backpacks. The AirFleet.com has a fully padded laptop compartment and accordion files, and measures 13-in by 13-in by 3-in. The 12-in by 15-in by 7-in AirCurrent has a large interior space for students, professionals, and everyday use, and the AirCurrent.com is roomy with a laptop compartment. The AirCurrent models are available in black, navy, and grey, and the AirFleet comes in black.
For additional information, contact AirPacks, 100 Cummings Center, Suite 421F, Beverly, MA 01915; 978-921-5566; 800-310-7383; www.air packs.com. CP
Expanded Sandal Colors
Foot Levelers Inc expands its Sandalthotics® product line to include three additional colors.
The new strap colors include: the Santa Fe (red, teal, and purple flaming zig-zag), Cheyenne (teal, tan, and purple flowing diamonds); and the Baja (purple, magenta, and white symmetrical triangles).
The UltraTrek incorporates a custom-made, multi-feature orthotic. It features an EVA midsole with a wide base for stability and support, a rubber bottom with skid-proof tread design for traction, an open-heel design for coolness and comfort, and water-resistant nylon hook-and-loop strapping for adjustable fit and support.
For additional information, contact Foot Levelers Inc, PO Box 12611, Roanoke, VA 24027-2611; 800-553-4860; www. footlevelers.com. CP
Ginseng Capsule
HealthAid America introduces Sibergin® Siberian Ginseng, a high potency standardized ginseng extract.
Sibergin Siberian Ginseng, an adaptogen, helps the body achieve a natural balance between vitality and tranquility, boosting energy while relieving stress. In addition, the companys patented paste extract and pharmaceutical quality capsule delivery system assures Sibergins absorption and assimilation.
For additional information, contact HealthAid America, 340 S Farrell Dr, Suite A-208, Palm Springs, CA 92262; 800-320-5699; fax: 760-320-1775; email: healthaida@aol.com. CP
Information Website
The American Association of Homeopathic Pharmacists (AAHP) has launched its trade association website with a major position statement on the use of homeopathic products for treatment and prevention of anthrax.
The new website (www.homeo pathicpharmacy.org) contains facts on the regulatory status of homeopathic drug products, as well as profiles of AAHP member companies. Visitors to the website will find information on important regulatory documents that affect the labeling, sale, and distribution of homeopathic drug products. A brief history of homeopathy and of the AAHP provides the visitor with a better understanding of this health care modality and its place in the American health care system.
Links to member company websites allow guests to find information on products and contact information is included for all member companies. Links to other nonprofit homeopathic organizations have been arranged to enable the public to use one resource for obtaining a range of information on homeopathy, from consumer-oriented material to educational opportunities for health care professionals and interested patients. A list of books is also provided from introductory texts to advanced resource books.
For additional information, contact American Association of Homeopathic Pharmacists, 3741 Mitford Ln, Clinton, WA 98236; 800-478-0421; www.homeopathicpharmacy.org. CP
Electrodes
Vermed Inc offers ChroniCare TENS pain management electrodes and SportStim muscle stimulation electrodes.
Latex-free, both products feature patented MultiStick® gel technology to produce durable electrodes. They are easily repositioned and reapplied for single-patient use.
ChroniCare TENS electrodes have a soft-cloth backing for conformity and comfort, plus carbon film and lead wires for current distribution. Stinging, edge-biting, and hot spots are eliminated. ChroniCare TENS may also be used for muscle stimulation applications.
SportStim electrodes use a stainless steel knit fabric to ensure current distribution during muscle stimulation. Comfortable and non-irritating, they may be used for TENS applications.
For additional information, contact Vermed Inc, Industrial Park, Bellows Falls, VT 05101; 802-463-9976; 800-245-4025; fax: 802-463-9228; email: info@vermed.com; www.ver med.com. CP
Alternative Medicine Book
1st Books Library has released an alternative to the "pain of modern medicine" in Do No Harm, a book by Yoshitaka Ohno, MD, PhD.
A native of Osaka, Japan, Ohno received his education and training there in medicine and neuropathology. After discovering that Japans medical system had become like other Western medical systems (focusing on drugs and surgery), he left Japan in search of new answers to age-old questions.
Ohnos journey away from conventional treatment led him to "humanitarian medicine," allowing him to combine his medical training and spiritual leadership skills. His approach targets the mind, body, and soul, and is based on having a close relationship with nature.
Ohno founded the Ohno Institue on Water and Health, a nonprofit research and education center for studying the effect of naturally magnetized water on health and aging.
For additional information, contact 1st Books Library, 2595 Vernal Pike, Bloomington, IN 47404; 812-339-6000; 800-839-8640; fax: 812-339-6554; www.1stbooks.com. CP
Amino Acid
Now Foods introduces Gaba, Gamma-aminobutyric acid plus B-6, to its amino acid line.
Gaba acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, regulating brain and nerve cell activity by inhibiting the number of neurons firing in the brain. By inhibiting over-stimulation of the brain, Gaba may help promote relaxation and ease the nervous tension. Gaba is formed in the body from another amino acid, glutamic acid.
Now Foods provides only the naturally occurring L-form as found in food and in the body. Available in 100 count bottles, this product can be purchased at health food stores.
For additional information, contact Now Foods, 395 S Glen Ellyn Rd, Bloomingdale, IL 60108; 630-545-9098. CP
Contour Pillow
Splintek introduces the ChiroContour pillow, designed for comfort and proper posture.
The anatomically designed relief pocket reduces lateral pressures on the mandible, zygomatic bones, and ears, keeping the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area more relaxed. The shoulder contour provides a customized fit for the head, neck, and shoulder region for comfort and support. The pillow is made of soft molded foam to provide proper support while offering optimum comfort. This provides patients a better quality of sleep. ChiroContour comes with a fitted pillowcase, but will fit into standard pillowcases.
For additional information, contact Splintek, 3325 Wyoming St, Kansas City, MO 64111; 888-792-0865; fax: 816-531-1968; www.splintek.com. CP