Thursday, September 26, 2024

IN SUPPORT OF ISRAELI MEDICINE AND THE PEOPLE BEHIND IT

Dr. Robert Bard (Diagnostic Specialist in IHRC) has always been front-and-center with the international medical community.  In a recent expansion of the Israeli medical technologies in the U.S.  Dr. Bard raised his level of activity to offer his expertise in support of the Israeli Medical movement.  Recently, he is exploring similar connections with groups such as Clalit Health, the APF and the recent kickoff of the ScienceAbroad  medical conference- showcasing Israeli Medicine.

For his new connections in Israel, Dr. Bard has honed the craft of medical partnering in various ways:

1) RESEARCH:  Dr. Bard has joined many clinical research teams. offering his vast experience in diagnostic imaging analysis.  He continues this with Israeli clinical RESEARCH teams where his imaging validation could result in the monitoring of treatment efficacy.  This includes topical solutions, injected serums and non-invasive treatment technologies. Ref: https://angiofoundation.org/research_trials.html


2) BRAIN HEALTH: Dr. Bard currently works with the psychiatric community.  As with his first responder program,  Dr. Bard often supports patients who suffer from post traumatic stress (from disasters such as war) and may seek diagnostic imaging.  He combines with specialists in psychiatric care and neurological experts in cognitive care. ref: https://bardcancercenter.blogspot.com/2022/08/cognition-testing-and-concussion.html


3) VIRTUAL INTERPRETATION / SECOND OPINION: Though Dr. Bard cannot travel abroad for active duty (due to a currently busy medical practice in NYC), he often participates in virtual patient care with remote over-reading of real-time ultrasound scans from the field.  From 9/11 to the Covid Pandemic, Dr. Bard has added a layer of expertise to the diagnosis of wounds and internal injuries. Ref: https://telemedscans.com/

For more information, visit SCIENCEABROAD on linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scienceabroad-the-organization-of-israeli-scientists-abroad/


IN SOLIDARITY WITH SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONISTS

Introduction: 
Family heirlooms may sometimes carry hidden treasures- the kind that could be a significant part of world history.  In the case of a unique news clipping from World War II, a unique feature interest story about a Jewish American Soldier received a major honor from battle at a time when Jews were at the height of persecution in Europe.

Published and written in the Yiddish language (often known to be an "old people's" language), the beneficiary held this special news clipping for over 80 years without any idea of its contents. Until recently, the beholder of this news excerpt had very little interest in getting the news piece translated due to the limited popularity of Yiddish-speaking/reading people around. Decades later, the news clip made its way to several historians who found significant value in the military success story.  It also spoke of cases and events of what would eventually become the future Jewish national Home (Israel).


An excerpt from the former YIDISHES ṬAGEBLAṬṬ (יידישעס טאגעבלאט = Jewish Daily News)
Translated by: Shimmy Schwartz

BROOKLYN JEWISH DOCTOR PRAISED FOR HIS HEROISM ON THE MARSHALL ISLANDS
1944 - Captain Harry Schwartzbard, a young Jewish doctor from Brooklyn, received widespread acclaim from the Associated Press for his heroic actions during the invasion of the Marshall Islands. Amidst the chaos of war, with people burning and bullets flying in all directions, Dr. Schwartzbard remained steadfast in his duty, tending to the injured and saving numerous lives. His bravery and selflessness in the face of extreme danger earned him well-deserved recognition. 
Mrs. Schwartzbard, residing at 1211 Avenue I in Brooklyn, recently gave birth to a baby two months ago. In a heartwarming moment on Christmas, her husband, Dr. Henry Schwartzbard, called from Honolulu and was able to hear their infant son cry for the first time over the telephone. Although he had yet to see a photo of their child, this moment brought joy to the new father. Mrs. Schwartzbard expressed her pride and happiness regarding the recognition her husband has received for his heroic actions. Dr. Schwartzbard, a graduate of City College and the University of Basel's medical program, was previously affiliated with Lincoln Hospital.




Family heirlooms may sometimes carry surprise hidden treasures- the kind that may hold a landmark in world history. A treasure trove of letters by the late Captain Harry Schwartzbard recently surfaced, passionately journaling life and times in the front lines of World War II to his recently-born and only son Robert between 1944-1945.  

Between the recklessly stored stack of letters was a mysterious news clipping that ignited the inspiring foundation behind “LEGACIES OF COURAGE”.  At a time when Jews in America were a small and underserved community, a local Brooklyn newspaper reported (in Yiddish) about our Jewish American Soldier who received a major military honor from battle- highlighting his unusual and courageous contribution during the height of Jewish persecution in Europe.  Such an award was a milestone for Jews at a time when prosperity in the new world for its people was most uncertain. After 80 years, the news clipping finally gained the attention of translators and several historians who found significant value as a military success story.



ARCHIVING 80-YEAR OLD LETTERS FROM THE WAR: PRESERVING HISTORICAL TREASURES
Dr. Bard recently brought to light a treasure trove of vintage photographs, news clippings and private letters from the front lines of WW2. These fragile reflections of world history are all that's left of the expressions of one Capt. Harry Schwartzbard to his baby son Robert (Bard) in the United States.  According to the archivalists at the AngioInstitute, such prints are so brittle and easily crumbled from the mere human touch.  Light and durable papers such as Moleskin and Crane were commonly used for air mailed letters back then- and are found to break apart under constant daylight and repeated photo flash after decades of being entoombed in storage.  The very oils of one's fingers and exposure to sunlight and incandescent light are enough to add to the deterioration process of these papers.  But thanks to current archival management techniques and storage tools, such articles and documents may stand to survive their next journey which involves scanners, photography and general handling from transcribers and publishers.



MORE "BARD-SIGHTINGS"--
 at the 9/10 DENSE BREAST DISCLOSURE LAW Confirmation.
Robert Bard, MD's support was ever-present in this month's big-event at the Legislative Bldg @ CT Capitol Building in the form of ambassadors of the Women's Health Collaborative (womenshealthdigest.org). Dr. Bard played an important role in the detection of Dense Breast tissue. Since the early 1970's, Dr. Bard was one of the pioneers in the use of 3D Doppler Ultrasound to complement mammography to identify breast cancer tumors through tissue density, when mammography alone often failed. Today, Dr. Bard stands as one of the most highly published and recognized experts in breast density imaging. He works closely with legislative officials and medical leaders to provide current research and data on this life-saving matter. Visit his recent report after Congresswoman DeLauro's congratulatory speech: https://lnkd.in/efGJQF4F

-Photo Insert: Dr. Bard with a panel of supporters of Are You Dense Advocacy on 9/10/2024. He remains a proud supporter of Nancy Cappello's vision for public awareness and legislative support. 
L-Image: A highly charged and emotional Legislative Building at the CT State capitol filled the conference room on Sept. 10, 2024. as AYD Executive Dir. Joe Cappello (R-Image) officially announced the confirmation of the Dense Breast Disclosure Act.


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Monday, June 24, 2024

Integrative Health News: Laser Guided VSELs

KINESIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS:  VSELs TREATMENT PROGRESS EXPLAINED

By:  Matthew Einsohn, ND

This might seem like a small thing, but it's actually a big deal. When you're sitting, lifting your leg involves working against gravity, which is already challenging. But when you're lying down, it requires a whole different set of muscles and coordination. It means engaging not just the hip flexors but also the core and stabilizing muscles of the lower back and pelvis. This shows his overall muscle function and coordination have significantly improved.

Without the help of gravity, his core muscles have to work even harder to stabilize and support the movement. This improvement in core strength is great news. Plus, this movement indicates improved flexibility and range of motion, likely due to decreased muscle stiffness and better neuromuscular control.

Being able to perform this movement both sitting and lying down means his nervous system and muscles are working together more effectively. This is crucial for overall mobility and daily activities.

When Dr. Blatman is discussing the origins of pain, which is associated with sheer force and pressure, it appears that stabilization has been achieved. Based on watching the video (above) several times, I would theorize that significant restoration is occurring. It seems he has addressed the root cause of the pain by restoring the integrity of the fascia.

Additionally, while there is a notion that one can make injuries less noticeable, this approach does not seem to align with his method. Instead, if he is indeed focusing on restoring the integrity of the fascia, it suggests that he is addressing the fundamental issue underlying the pain rather than merely masking the symptoms.

Some conditions just this mechanism can help with:

* Muscle weakness and atrophy from post-stroke rehabilitation or muscle degenerative diseases
* Neurological disorders such as MS or Parkinson's
* Recovery from spinal injuries
* Any chronic pain such as Fibromyalgia
* Anyone with joint or mobility problems

Muscle Weakness and Atrophy: Conditions causing muscle weakness or atrophy, such as post-stroke rehabilitation or muscle degenerative diseases, might see improvements in strength and coordination with similar treatments.

Neurological Disorders: Disorders like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease, where muscle control and coordination are affected, could benefit from enhanced muscle function and coordination.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Recovery from surgeries, especially orthopedic or spinal surgeries, could be supported by treatments that improve muscle strength, flexibility, and functional movement.

Chronic Pain Conditions: Conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic back pain that involve muscular and structural issues might see relief through better muscle engagement and reduced stiffness.

Balance and Stability Issues: Treatments that enhance core strength and overall muscle coordination can help with balance and stability, which is crucial for individuals with vertigo or balance disorders.

Joint and Mobility Problems: For conditions like arthritis or other joint issues, improving range of motion and muscle strength can reduce pain and enhance mobility.

Sports Injuries: Athletes recovering from injuries might benefit from improved muscle function and coordination, aiding in a quicker and more effective recovery.


THE BACK STORY: 

VSELs by definition are Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem cells.  They are rare stem cells found in adult tissues that may have potential in regenerative medicine. They are slightly smaller than red blood cells and are located in the inner cell mass of the blastocyst during early development. VSELs are quiescent but can be activated during stress and mobilized into peripheral blood. They have a distinct morphology with a high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio and undifferentiated chromatin. VSELs also express markers of pluripotent stem cells, such as Oct4, Nanog, and SSEA, and markers of primordial germ cells (PGCs), which suggests they may be related to PGCs. 

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6461217/


PROCEDURE REPORT: DR. BLATMAN'S TRANSCRIPT ON DR. BARD'S VSELs TREATMENT DAY 1

Dr. Bard and I started the procedure with a deep discussion, making sure we had his wish list and an understanding of what he was specifically wanting and trying to get better. By the time we proceeded, we drew eight tubes of blood, we spun it down, and concentrated his plasma. And then we lasered that plasma and prepared the VSELs out of the solution, activating dormant, very small embryonic like stem cells from his blood -dormant since his birth. And then we prepared them for injection into him. We used eight syringes of these VSELs to inject specific parts of him. There were tendons anchoring his right quadriceps. There were tendons anchoring both of his butt muscles. There were muscles and tendons anchoring the end of his quadriceps that help him control his knee whose weakness brings him knee pain.

I believe he (Dr Bard) was able to tell that when we were doing that needle surgery to place the VSELs so they could facilitate repair of the injured fascia anchors, he could tell that the needle was in the right place. When you've experienced this pain for so long and you can feel what's going on inside your body, you have a way of knowing that I'm in the right spot. And since this procedure can be very uncomfortable, he was able to breathe nitrous oxide which greatly reduces discomfort and anxiety. This made the process a whole lot less uncomfortable for him. And then we followed the needle surgery with an intravenous injection giving him a little more than 40 CCs of the VSELs derived from his blood. These were given intravenously along with an ozone IV at the same time. So the “babies were piggybacked” into the ozonated blood IV after his blood went through ultraviolet light to clean it. As these cells were going into his body, we used a SONG modulated laser to guide these cells to where we want them to get stuck and where we want them to do their work. And so we sent these to his brain, to his cerebellum and balance centers, down his spinal cord, and then into his right thigh.

I'm hoping to see if this technology could reactivate some of the nerves that were damaged from the polio, because when polio damages nerves, it doesn't interrupt or cut them. They're still there, they just don't work. So we're hoping that they're still there enough that we can coax them to work or coax them to health. And we don't know if there's a chance to do that or not, because to the best of my knowledge, this has never been done before (with Post-Polio syndrome). So we are the first ones I would think, to use VSELs in polio for the regeneration of the nervous system and to see if it would work.

When we inject into joints, you can see the cartilage vertical dimension increase. When you inject into rotator cuff tendon, you can subsequently see with ultrasound that the tendon defect filled in. You can also see it on MRI that the defect in the tendon filled in.

We have some patients with Parkinson's in the treatment group from this laser that have shown improvement in 30 minutes. So it can happen pretty quickly. It can also take two or three months before you see a change. You never know.




2024 MEDICAL INNOVATOR: MEET DR. HAL BLATMAN 

Introduction: In the continued search for innovative healers and luminaries in the world of wellness, the Integrative Pain Healers Alliance honors professionals who conduct clinical leadership in their daily practice.  These role models inspire and pave the way for others within their generation to advance their education and expand their capacity in their selected healing arts, or explore other modalities that add to their ability to help their patients.

Our directors and publishers have reviewed the integrative work of Dr. Hal Blatman.  We recognize his holistic & innovative philosophies, his intuitive clinical approach and his expansive vision to engage in what his patients and colleagues would consider “the most sensible and intelligent solutions”.

With dual locations in Cincinnati, Ohio and NYC, Dr. Blatman founded the Blatman Health and Wellness Center- offering a variety of the latest protocols and modalities. His featured health services include: Regenerative Medicine (Stem Cell therapy & PRP), Pain Management and IV Therapy.  Dr. Blatman has also established a successful history working with patients with complex medical disorders by exploring a wider set of diagnostic and therapeutic options and exploratory solutions which includes Metabolic Terrain Medicine for those with cancer. He is also certified in the ReCODE program from Apollo Health for those with dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.


"THE BLATMAN METHOD"

Over the course of more than 30 years in clinical practice Dr. Blatman has developed The Blatman Method – a well published strategy for Understanding and Treating Pain. This method is based on 5 rules:

1. You cannot believe pain comes from where you feel it. Your headache does not come from your head, blood vessels or nerves. Pain in your left arm could be a heart attack, and knee pain does not come from the joint, evidenced by persistent knee pain long after joint replacement surgery.

2. It is not important to distinguish what you think the pain feels like. In fact, your brain cannot tell the difference between sharp, dull, achy, stabbing, numbness, tingling, burning, and more. They all can have the same cause.

3. The only thing you can really believe is what you can touch and feel, and where you are specifically tender, millimeter by millimeter, is where your fascia is kinked or tied in a knot, or where your fascia anchors to hold you together and you have injured and repaired this hundreds of times.

4. If you are examined this way looking for where you are tender from head to toe, the places where you are overall most tender represent the kinks and injuries from your lifetime that generate most of the pain of which you are conscious.

5. No matter how long you have had the pain, and no matter what you have been told is your diagnosis – as quickly as you unkink your fascia and get your body to regrow and strengthen to hold together better on the inside – the pain you had will already be gone.



REGENERATIVE MEDICINE 

Dr. Blatman has been helping people recover and restore worn joints and avoid joint replacement surgery for more than 30 years. His patients have seen great success with regenerative and holistic therapies for pain. Regenerative medicine therapies include Peptide therapy, Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP) Therapy, Stem Cell Therapy, exosome treatments, and vSEL Therapy.

Painful and degenerative joints aren’t nearly the only applications of regenerative medicine:

• Tendon repair – Rather than cutting and anchoring injured tendons with surgical repair, regenerative techniques involve reinjuring the tendon with a needle surgery technique and injecting growth factors that facilitate biologic repair of the tendon.

• Ligament repair – Rather than cutting and anchoring injured ligaments with surgical repair, regenerative techniques involve reinjuring the ligament with a needle surgery technique and injecting growth factors that facilitate biologic repair of the ligament

• Joint cartilage restoration – Rather than replace a worn joint via invasive surgery, use the idea that our bodies restore cartilage from daily wear and tear minute by minute, and enhance this process with glucosamine, peptides, PRP, and stem cells.

• Sexual dysfunction treatment – Regenerative medicine techniques may involve injecting growth factors (PRP/stem cells) into intimate areas to regenerate blood vessels and nerves that bring improvement with engorgement and sensation.

• Pelvic floor repair – Growth factor injection and radiofrequency treatments can reduce urinary stress incontinence in women by aiding in repairing and strengthening the pelvic floor and associated muscles.

• Pelvic pain recovery – Regenerative treatments can be used in addition to physical therapy to facilitate repair of fascia that anchors pelvic, gluteal, and thigh muscles. This includes chronic pain generally attributed to the pudendal nerve.

• Heart repair – When heart function has been lost from injuries like ablation and heart attacks, laser-activated and SONG modulated laser-guided vSELS (very small embryonic-like stem cells) can restore heart function and have even gotten people off the heart transplant list.

• Lung repair – Stem cell therapies have been used for more than 10 years to help restore lung tissue and function in people with degenerative lung conditions like COPD and emphysema.

• Neurorehabilitation – Part of our treatment for neurological disorders includes peptides and IV injections of laser activated and laser guided vSELS (very small embryonic like stem cells). We have seen improvements in people with MS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.





BIO & BACKGROUND: 

HAL BLATMAN, MD, DAAPM, ABIHM

Dr. Blatman is a nationally recognized specialist in treating myofascial pain. He is credentialed in Pain Management and Board Certified in Occupational and Environmental Medicine and in Integrative Medicine. Dr. Blatman is a Past-President of the American Holistic Medical Association. After receiving his medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1980, Dr. Blatman completed two years of training in orthopedic surgery. He later studied clinical toxicology and ergonomics during his residency in Occupational and Environmental Medicine at the University of Cincinnati Hospital. For several years, Dr. Blatman practiced family medicine while managing a chain of urgent care facilities. During Dr. Blatman’s tenure in general medicine, he recognized standard of care medicine’s difficulty treating and managing chronic and myofascial pain. In his search for answers he studied with the late Janet Travell, MD, then recognized as the world’s leading expert in treating myofascial pain disorders. He now teaches doctors and other providers, and leads a clinical team that understands that pain generally comes from a lifetime of injuries to fascia, and by healing most of it can be made to go away.

For more information, visit Dr. Blatman’s website at: www.blatmanhealthandwellness.com


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SURVIVOR STORES: "Silenced No More: The Endometriosis Warrior's Battlecry"

Written by: Ciji Castro

For three decades, I have battled the silent monster within-- endometriosis. It started at the young age of nine when my first period marked the onset of a tumultuous relationship with my own body. What followed was a labyrinth of surgeries, treatments, and trial drugs, each peeling away parts of me, leaving behind battle scars that narrate a tale of resilience and fortitude.

pre-op photo taken right before last major
excision surgery and total hysterectomy
Endometriosis has spared no organ within me; it afflicted not only my uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes but also my appendix, bladder, ureters, colon, rectum, and cervix, potentially encroaching on my lungs. Despite the excruciating agony that became my constant companion, I was met with dismissive remarks, such as overreacting, having a low pain tolerance, being a hypochondriac, or worse, my test results being "normal," and there was nothing "wrong" with me.

Little did they know that beneath my happy, outgoing persona lay a warrior battling stage four endometriosis, armed with a pain threshold that masked the torment within. Post-surgery, I would wake up in recovery, walk to the bathroom on my own, and recover with nothing more than ibuprofen.

Amidst the labyrinth of myths and misconceptions, I was fed lies disguised as hope-- a promise that pregnancy could cure my Endo, that a hysterectomy would be the end of my Endo, and that menopause would usher in an era of long-awaited respite. Yet, each falsehood only fueled my determination to shatter the silence surrounding this nonsensical, mysterious disease.

To those facing their own battle with endometriosis, I urge you to fight fiercely and advocate for yourself. Your voice matters, your pain is real, and your journey is valid. Don't let dismissive attitudes or misconceptions deter you from seeking help and support. Educate yourself, speak up, and don't be afraid to contradict medical professionals who do not specialize in endometriosis or even mention that they "just looked it up"... because, yes, that happens. Never hesitate to demand the care and understanding you deserve, stay resilient, stay determined, and stand in your power. You are not alone in this fight.

As an ambassador for the Endometriosis Foundation of America, my mission transcends mere advocacy; it embodies a fervent dedication to enlighten the masses. I strive to empower today's youth with knowledge, equipping them to navigate a medical landscape where endometriosis languishes in obscurity. I engage in conversations with families, encouraging them to talk to their children about Endo with sensitivity and candor, all while nurturing a culture of understanding and empathy. Together, I hope to break the silence surrounding endometriosis and pave the way for a future where women's health is taken seriously. We are warriors, and our voices can spark change: change in funding for research, change in more medical professionals taking an interest in endometriosis, and change in the care we, as patients, receive.

Until then, I stand resolute, a beacon of strength for those who walk the same arduous path, a voice that reverberates through the silence, echoing the unwavering resolve of a warrior undaunted by the shadows of the pain and uncertainty in my journey with Endo.


CIJI CASTRO
Domestic Gourmet, Content Creator, Restaurant Guide, Activist
Ciji Castro, also known as Domestic Gourmet, is the CEO and Executive Chef behind a line of organic Spanish cooking staples. As a mom of three girls, she is passionate about teaching them about endometriosis. Ciji is an ambassador for the Endometriosis Foundation of America and lends her voice to the character of Maya's mom in the animated show featured on the ENPOWR Project. Look out for her upcoming products, achiote oil and spices, launching later this summer. Combining her culinary expertise with advocacy work, Ciji is making a difference in both the food industry and in raising awareness about women's health issues.


e consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.


THE 2024 ENDOMETRIOSIS RESOURCE GUIDE (download now)
Dr. Roberta Kline, women's health and genomics specialist presents this supplemental workbook from her presentation at the 15th Annual Endometriosis Foundation Patient Conference in NYC. "To address endometriosis more effectively, we first need to understand what causes it. And it turns out it's not so simple. Endometriosis is a complex disease, which means that there is no single cause and no single answer. What's exciting is that genetic expression research is providing many clues, opening up new opportunities for better diagnostics, earlier detection, and more effective treatments because they're addressing the root causes. While you can’t change your genes, you CAN influence how they get expressed and thus affect your health. In this Endometriosis Resource Guide, you’ll learn simple strategies to optimize your body’s own biology. It’s a powerful tool to help you regain some control back from a disease that all too often feels like it’s controlling you".





Disclaimer: The information (including, but not limited to text, graphics, images and other material) contained in this article is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or scientific claims. Furthermore, any/all contributors (both medical and non-medical) featured in this article are presenting only ANECDOTAL findings pertaining to the effects and performance of the products/technologies being reviewed - and are not offering clinical data or medical recommendations in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this page, article, blog or website.






Under a joint report with the Women's Diagnostic Network and HealthTech Reporter, our editors met with Ms. MJ Smith, a clinical ambassador from Screen Point Medical (breast imaging AI) at the 2023 NYC Roentgen Society conference. At the height of the medical conference, we found MJ to be a uniquely profound and engaging speaker about women's health topics.  Exploring a private connection opened us into a collaborative and educational journey befitting our UNDERDIAGNOSED WOMEN series where MJ is truly a life-long supporter of diagnostic care, innovation and non-invasive options.

Endometriosis (sometimes called "endo" for short) is a common health problem in women that is reported to affect more than 11% of American women between 15 and 44. It gets its name from the word endometrium, the tissue that normally lines the uterus or womb. When this tissue is found in locations outside of the uterus, it is called endometriosis. Most often this involves the nearby organs and tissues – ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, bladder, bowel and rectum. It can also be found in other locations including the vagina, cervix, vulva, or even distant tissues such as the lungs, brain, eye, and skin. Just like the lining of the uterus, this tissue responds to cycling hormones to grow. But unlike normal endometrium, it is not limited to the surface and does not shed. Because of this, it builds up and creates inflammation, scarring, and other changes that contribute to the most common symptom: pain. 

While endometriosis is most often diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s, it likely develops much earlier. Due to the wide range of symptoms that women can experience, and lack of effective and noninvasive diagnostic tools, women often suffer for years or even decades. Currently the only accepted way to diagnosis endometriosis is to directly visualize and biopsy the lesions with surgery. This is limiting for two reasons. First, endometriosis has to be considered as a possible explanation for symptoms that are often seen as “normal” for menstruating women. Second, the risk of not knowing has to outweigh the risk of potential complications of invasive surgery. 



Endometriosis can also make it harder to get pregnant, and it is not uncommon for a diagnosis to be made only as part of evaluation or treatment for infertility. Getting a diagnosis to explain symptoms is only the first step in addressing endometriosis, however. There is no cure, and most current treatments often come with significant risks or side effects but do not fully resolve a woman’s symptoms. While research progresses slowly, we still do not have a clear understanding of what causes endometriosis, how to diagnose it early without invasive procedures, how to ease symptoms, and ultimately treat and possibly cure the disease itself.

This special interview features great insight from a woman’s journey with endometriosis.  We explore her remarkable quest for answers from the range of pain relief to therapeutic treatments to risks of surgical solutions.






SEXISM IN THE WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE by: Mary Nielsen

Many women suffer with undiagnosed endometriosis. The medical field has prided itself on providing objective observations because it claims to rely on science. However, sexism lurks in hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities and the gender gap in treating pain is real. Diane Hoffman and Anita Tarzian from the University of Maryland, Francis King Carey School of Law published, "The Girl Who Cried Pain, A Bias against Women in the Treatment of Pain." Although that study is 20+ years old, little has changed.

Sexist stereotypes that see women as 'emotional' and consequently medical staff doubt a physical basis for women's pain. Men are viewed as more 'rational' and when men say they are feeling acute pain, their symptoms are taken more seriously and considered to have a physical cause. This means women receive very different care for pain management and pain diagnosis. Researcher, Karen Calderone found that women are more likely given sedatives as an answer to complaints of pain and are perceived as being anxious.

Medical professionals focus on returning the woman to a state of being calm and not investigating the cause behind their pain. The sedatives can then make the women seem calmer from outside appearance, while their medical condition can continue to worsen as they remain undiagnosed. Undiagnosed endometriosis has enormous repercussions for a woman. Life altering heavy bleeding, cramping and pain can lead to infertility, anemia, and internal adhesions requiring surgery. 

Education toward gender bias and addressing women's pain is needed to allow earlier diagnosis with a non-invasive technology like ultrasound. 



Elevating Women's Wellbeing at Work
Insights from the US Surgeon General's Report

Written by: Joyce Gregory, MD

Promoting the mental health and wellbeing of women in the workplace remains paramount in today’s dynamic post COVID pandemic work landscape. Work plays a pivotal role in shaping the health, wealth, and overall wellbeing of women. Ideally, work provides women with the means to support themselves and their families while also offering a sense of purpose, opportunities for growth, and a supportive community. When women thrive in the workplace, they are more likely to experience both physical and mental wellness, contributing positively to their work environments.

Despite facing challenges like economic disparities, educational debts, and housing instability, organizations have the power to support women's mental health and wellbeing. Leaders and employees can rethink the role of work in women's lives and explore strategies to better support their needs. By prioritizing women's health and happiness at work, organizations can create environments where women can thrive both personally and professionally.

The US Surgeon General's 2022 report on Workplace Mental Health and Well-being offers a comprehensive framework that outlines five essential components designed to meet the unique needs of women in the workforce. Let's explore how these essentials can cultivate workplaces that prioritize women's well-being and professional growth.

Ensuring Protection from Harm
Prioritizing workplace safety is critical, particularly for women who may face heightened risks due to various factors such as discrimination and violence. Organizations must diligently adhere to regulations, improve policies, and collaborate with female employees to ensure a safe work environment.
Adequate rest is essential for the physical and mental well-being of women in the workplace while insufficient rest can lead to increased risks of injuries and burnout. Workplace leaders should consider factors like working hours and provide opportunities for rest to support the well-being and productivity of female employees.

Supporting mental health is crucial, especially for women, to combat stigma and foster inclusive cultures. Organizations can achieve this by providing training, enhancing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Fostering Connection & Community
Fostering a sense of belonging in the workplace is paramount, particularly for women. Encouraging social interaction and breaking down barriers can cultivate positive relationships and shield against bias. Leaders must strive to create inclusive environments where every woman feels empowered to voice her thoughts.

Building trust among female colleagues is key. Leaders should facilitate opportunities for team members to bond, fostering empathy and support, particularly during challenging times. Strong workplace relationships not only enhance performance but also drive innovation, highlighting the importance of transparent communication.

In today's remote or hybrid work setups, promoting collaboration is essential. Leaders should advocate for teamwork, facilitate regular communication, and provide effective collaboration tools. Addressing broader social issues can further strengthen bonds among women, fostering a supportive environment.

Striking Work-Life Harmony
Achieving work-life balance is a common challenge, yet crucial for women's well-being. Granting women autonomy over their work methods and providing flexibility in tasks, schedules, and locations can mitigate conflicts and build trust. Implementing family-friendly policies and respecting boundaries between work and personal time are also essential.

Embracing Mattering at Work
Recognizing the contributions of women in the workplace is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. This involves providing fair compensation, engaging women in decision-making processes, fostering gratitude and recognition, and aligning individual work with the organizational mission. Empowering women enhances morale and organizational commitment.

Nurturing Opportunity for Growth
Providing women with opportunities for growth and learning is paramount. Companies should offer quality training, education, mentoring programs, and clear pathways for career advancement. Ensuring equitable distribution of opportunities and offering relevant feedback are essential for women's career development and fulfillment.

In the post-pandemic era, workplaces have a unique chance to prioritize women's mental health and well-being, fostering resilience and success. The Surgeon General’s 2022 Framework for Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being serves as a roadmap for creating supportive environments. Sustainable change requires dedicated leadership that amplifies the voices of women. I encourage you to explore the full report to gain deeper insights into fostering women's wellbeing in the workplace and creating inclusive environments for all.

 

DR. JOYCE GREGORY holds over two decades of professional experience as a clinical psychiatrist specializing in addictions and mental health treatment programs.  She is dedicated to advancing performance-based solutions in both the healthcare and education sectors to enhance patient outcomes and academic achievements. She is deeply passionate about utilizing her clinical expertise and data-driven approach not only in healthcare but also in education to bridge the gap between medical science and industry. Dr. Gregory is also a recognized clinical speaker and a published educator.  Her latest educational contribution to mental health and wellness is in an upcoming series by BALANCE & LONGEVITY (WHC-TV) / Women's Health Collaborative) set to launch in the summer of 2024. 

Public Service Annc.


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Monday, June 17, 2024

News from the Arthritis Foundation: Supporting the White House’s New Women’s Health Research Initiative

The Women's Health Collaborative and the Integrative Pain Healers Alliance proudly supports the ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION by reposting and sharing this latest press release to all our friends in the patient care community. A very special thanks must go out to our friends Ms. Anna Hyde (Vice President of Advocacy and Access) and Ms. Melissa Horn (Director of State Legislative Affairs) at Arthritis Foundation!

In recognition of May as Arthritis Awareness Month and Women’s Health Week May 12 – 18, 2024, the Arthritis Foundation shares a letter of support for the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research. 

 ATLANTA, GA (May 15, 2024) — Following his State of the Union address, President Joe Biden issued an Executive Order on March 18, 2024, calling on Congress to make a bold, transformative investment of $12 billion in new funding for women’s health research — an initiative led by First Lady Jill Biden and first announced in November 2023. 

 We want to thank the Administration for prioritizing women's health research. Recognizing the importance as relevant for people living with arthritis, this is important because: 
    - 75% of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are women, which is twice as many as men. 
    -  80% of people with autoimmune diseases are women. 
    -  These diseases often affect women during their childbearing years. 
    -  Nearly 60% of people with osteoarthritis are women.
 
 Historically, women have been underrepresented in medical research and clinical trials, leading to gaps in the understanding of relevant health issues for women. We are excited by the opportunity to further coordinate and amplify our efforts not only to address women's representation in research, including clinical trials, but also to understand the link between autoimmunity and reproductive health. Collectively we are eager to prioritize additional research that bridges gaps, no matter where a woman is in her journey and diagnosis with arthritis.






In his State of the Union address, President Biden laid out his vision for transforming women’s health research and improving women’s lives all across America. The President called on Congress to make a bold, transformative investment of $12 billion in new funding for women’s health research. This investment would be used to create a Fund for Women’s Health Research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to advance a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research agenda and to establish a new nationwide network of research centers of excellence and innovation in women’s health—which would serve as a national gold standard for women’s health research across the lifespan.

The President is issuing an Executive Order that will:
    - Integrate Women’s Health Across the Federal Research Portfolio.
    - Galvanize New Research on Women’s Midlife Health
    - Prioritize and Increase Investments in Women’s Health Research
    - Launch an NIH-Cross Cutting Effort to Transform Women’s Health Throughout the Lifespan
    - Invest in Research on a Wide Range of Women’s Health Issues
    - Call for New Proposals on Emerging Women’s Health Issues
    - Increase Research on How Environmental Factors Affect Women’s Health
    - Create a Dedicated, One-Stop Shop for NIH Funding Opportunities on Women’s Health
    - Accelerate Transformative Research and Development in Women’s Health


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Thursday, May 2, 2024

STELLATE GANGLION BLOCK FOR PTSD & ANXIETY -by Dr. James Lynch

 ULTRASOUND GUIDED TREATMENT: STELLATE GANGLION BLOCK FOR PTSD & ANXIETY -by Dr. James Lynch

The stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a procedure in which an injection of a long-acting local anesthetic, using ultrasound guidance, is made in the side of the neck around the main nerve that controls the “fight or flight” response (the sympathetic nervous system). This nerve, (the cervical sympathetic chain) which is a two-way conduit, connects the parts of the brain that control the fight or flight response (referred to as the central autonomic network) to the rest of the body. By blocking or “turning off” the traffic in the cervical sympathetic chain, it is believed that the parts of the brain that control the fight or flight response are allowed to completely reset, resulting in long-term relief of the associated anxiety symptoms. Multiple peer-reviewed medical studies show that SGB results in significant long-term improvement in chronic anxiety symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI). The SGB takes less than 15 minutes to perform, and benefits are seen in as little as 30 minutes.






STELLATE GANGLION BLOCK is a newer modality that’s being utilized for patients suffering from PTSD. Traditionally, my training in doing these procedures is in the setting of CRPS (complex regional pain syndrome), which is often a sympathetically mediated condition. There is mounting evidence demonstrating the benefits of using these treatments in patients that have sympathetic nervous system issues such as PTSD and CRPS.  We perform this procedure under direct image visualization to make sure that we get optimized outcomes for patients and do it in the safest possible way.  When I started doing this procedure for patients with PTSD I saw that many patients had significant improvement in their symptoms, particularly with presentations like anxiety or an overactive “fight or flight” response.   It's something that may take several treatments, but in many cases patients can feel benefit with the first treatment.  The results have been quite compelling.  This is something that can really help people meeting the appropriate criteria.

Author:
Dr. Matthew Kohler has been a leader in the field of Regenerative Medicine and Interventional Pain Medicine in Manhattan since his post-doctoral training in 2015. He completed both his residency in Anesthesiology and fellowship in Pain Medicine at the prestigious Columbia University Medical Center, part of New York City’s #1 ranked New York Presbyterian Hospital system. He is double-board certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine through the American Board of Anesthesiology. Through his training he has garnered world-class experience in interventional spine and joint procedures for the management of painful degenerative conditions and injuries. (for complete info, visit: https://ospinamedical.com/dr-matthew-kohler)


How to Detect & Manage INFLAMMATION the Non-Invasive Way


Learn about the latest in non-invasive diagnostic imaging modalities and the current breakthroughs in personalized therapies with pulsed bioenergy regenerative science. The AngioFoundation, the Integrative Pain Healers Alliance, the Women's Diagnostic network and all branches of the NY Cancer Resource Society unites under a coalition called "WAR ON INFLAMMATION"- an educational, advocacy and research initiative in pursuit of resources and solutions to offer new informative support against the many chronic disorders of our day.  Additional support comes from the BioEnergy  Therapeutic community and the Paul Dreschnack Research Foundation exploring the many advantages of Extracellular Vesicles.  

VISUALIZING THE TREATMENT OF INFLAMMATION
The Answers Collected from Ultrasound Imaging

Historically speaking, the most favored (and sensible) way to identify the results of any treatment is by tracking the body's immediate response to it. Controlled testing must show the patient's condition PRE and POST effects, where true data-finding is collecting the necessary EVIDENCE of its claims. The investigator can pull a significant amount of data from this form of validation testing: including stage-by-stage bodily response to future projections of possible side effects.  Modern diagnostic science looks to imaging for its safe, non-invasive yet quantifiable analyses of what’s under the skin. In this latest review, ultrasound offers a flicker-free visual (10-30 frames per second) of muscle contraction.  The “real-time” advantage of video under a 3D Doppler Ultrasound easily and clearly shows the frequency of the muscle bundle’s firing (twitching) indicating fatigue and potential pathology.


WELLNESS ESSENTIALS: INFLAMMATION 101

Part of the complex biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli (such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants) is inflammation. It is also a protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators. The function of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues damaged from the original insult and the inflammatory process, and initiate tissue repair.

The five cardinal signs are heat, pain, redness, swelling, and loss of function. Inflammation is a generic response, and therefore it is considered as a mechanism of innate immunity. Too little inflammation could lead to progressive tissue destruction by the harmful stimulus (e.g. bacteria) and compromise the survival of the organism. In contrast, too much inflammation, in the form of chronic inflammation, is associated with various diseases, such as hay fever, periodontal disease, atherosclerosis, and osteoarthritis.

ACUTE inflammation is the initial response of the body to harmful stimuli from the blood into the injured tissues. A series of biochemical events propagates and matures the inflammatory response within the injured tissue. Prolonged or CHRONIC inflammation, leads to a progressive shift in the type of cells in the inflamed area and is characterized by simultaneous destruction & healing of the tissue from the inflammatory process.




QUANTITATIVE IMAGING CONFIRMS THERAPEUTIC RESPONSE
One of the most comprehensive ways to confirm the results of any treatment is by clinically tracking the body's physiological response from underneath the skin.  Diagnostic imaging captures measurable data about the injured or inflamed area, allowing both clinicians and patients the ability to identify therapeutic progress in real time.  Widely preferred scanning modalities include the Doppler Blood Flow Ultrasound (or sonography) and Elastography, both using high-frequency sound waves to view inside the body. Like an internal video camera, these high speed scanning innovations capture actual movement of the body's internal organs.  This offers a vast amount of biometric information about the patient’s condition, in comparison to still images of conventional x-rays. The ultrasound's ability to evaluate abnormalities within the soft tissue in research and clinical trials are widely used in recording  evidence-based biomarkers to trace therapeutic efficacy. 







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IN SUPPORT OF ISRAELI MEDICINE AND THE PEOPLE BEHIND IT

Dr. Robert Bard  (Diagnostic Specialist in IHRC) has always been front-and-center with the international medical community.  In a recent ex...