– Are you over 35 and concerned about your ability to become pregnant?
– Are you under 35 and having difficulty conceiving?
– Do you have a condition that may be undermining your ability to become pregnant?
Dealing with infertility can be frustrating, financially draining, and in some cases, can lead to feelings of hopelessness. The problem of infertility is far from rare, however; according to an often-cited research study, fully 10-15% of couples in the US have difficulty conceiving.
Fortunately, medical breakthroughs including new medications, and high-technology treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), have helped many couples overcome fertility problems. But unfortunately, IVF and/or IUI can be a difficult journey for couples when the expected results are not achieved.
Medical research has demonstrated that acupuncture, which has been used for thousands of years to alleviate pain and boost the body’s immune system is a safe and clinically effective treatment for boosting fertility.
How does acupuncture help to improve fertility in women?
To date, most of the research on acupuncture and infertility has examined the effect of acupuncture when administered at or near the time of the IVF embryo transfer. As noted above, however, acupuncture elicits several beneficial physiological responses in the body, so it can be an effective, low-cost, and safe treatment not only for women undergoing IVF but for anyone wishing to get pregnant.
Acupuncture increases uterine and ovarian blood flow.
Acupuncture increases oxygenated blood flow and thickens the uterine lining, increasing the chance of conceiving.
Acupuncture modulates the body’s neuroendocrine system. The neuroendocrine system is the combination of the nervous and endocrine systems.
Acupuncture stimulates the brain to release hormones that then stimulate the ovaries, adrenals, and other organs involved in reproduction.
Acupuncture decreases the body’s stress response. Stress can contribute to infertility, and acupuncture mitigates the body’s stress response.
Overall, the research is very strong
Numerous studies have shown that pregnancy success rates increase when acupuncture is provided in conjunction with IVF (a process where the woman’s eggs are removed, fertilized with the man’s sperm, and then the healthy embryos are then implanted in the woman’s uterus).
In general, a woman may be up to 65% more likely to become pregnant if she is receiving acupuncture combined with IVF treatments, as compared to receiving IVF treatments alone.
Of course, men also can have infertility issues, and although there are fewer studies examining male infertility and acupuncture, the existing research suggests that acupuncture also plays a positive role in improving male fertility.
Finally, and just as important, the research indicates that there are no adverse side effects associated with using acupuncture to treat infertility.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excess alcohol use, stress, poor diet, excessive athletic training, and maintaining an unhealthy weight can create obstacles to getting pregnant.
Finally, age also plays a prominent role in fertility. As the years pass, a woman’s ovaries gradually become less able to release eggs, and the eggs produced are fewer and less robust. This said it is still very possible to have a healthy baby (or babies!) at an older age. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of women have their first child after age 35!
If you are under 35 and have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive for a year or more, talk with your physician to determine what fertility treatments would be most effective for you.
If you are over 35 and interested in getting pregnant, fertility experts recommend not waiting more than 6 months before seeking professional, medical assistance. Your doctor should administer fertility tests to determine the root of the problem. Identifying the cause of infertility will help determine the best course of action.
Most importantly, don’t lose hope.
At The Kaplan Center, we can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan, paying special attention to any chronic medical issues you may have, measuring your intracellular magnesium and vitamin-D levels, assessing your hormone balance, and helping you manage any situational stress you may be experiencing. We will partner with you to create a treatment plan that includes acupuncture, and we will be happy to coordinate your care with your fertility specialist or aid you in choosing a specialist.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
According to the American Cancer Society, about 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in 2020. A further 2,620 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men.
The causes of cancer are complex; genetics and our environment can play a large role. So while there is no sure way to prevent it, the tests, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations outlined below, along with the guidance of a trusted physician, can help minimize your risk.
Lifestyle Choices in Minimizing Cancer Risk
Lifestyle can play a very important role in minimizing your risk of cancer. I highly recommend the book, Keeping aBreast, by Dr. Khalid Mahmud, which offers the following suggestions for maintaining an optimal lifestyle (some of these also appear in well-regarded studies).
Nutrition: Good nutrition and targeted supplementation can help to reduce cancer risk. A low-glycemic diet that includes lean protein and more than 5 daily servings of vegetables is recommended. (See below for some of the best cancer-fighting foods and supplements.)
Exercise: Exercise programs emphasizing an increase in lean muscle mass offer benefits twofold by decreasing inflammation which in turn lowers cancer risk. On the other hand, an excess of fat in the body can increase levels of estrogen which increases the risk of breast cancer. One should aim for a BMI (body mass index) of 25.
Red Wine: Drinking red wine in moderation (less than 3 small glasses, 5 ounces each, per week) can reduce free radicals that damage DNA.
It’s important to note that drinking in excess and smoking increase the presence of free radicals, and interfere with the body’s ability to repair potential cancer cells.
Risk Assessment Tests
There are currently many tests available to assess the risk of breast cancer – for the purpose of this article I have chosen 3 to mention:
Estrogen-Metabolism Assessment: This valuable tool evaluates how your body metabolizes and processes estrogen. Certain types of estrogen metabolites may increase the risk and worsen the prognosis of breast cancer. Testing the levels of these metabolites in your blood or urine can help determine whether lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, are warranted in reducing the level of unhealthy estrogens in the body.
BRCA Gene Testing for Women and Men with a Strong Family History of Cancer: Certain gene mutations can indicate that some women and men have a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. Those who have inherited the harmful BRCA gene mutation are about five times more likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetimes than if they were without it. Also, certain ethnic and geographic populations, such as Ashkenazi Jews, Norwegians, Dutch and Icelandic people have a higher prevalence of BRCA 1 and 2 mutations. Knowing whether or not you carry the mutation can help you understand your personal risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer as well as passing it on to children. While the BRCA gene mutation is the most common mutation associated with breast cancer, over the past few years other gene mutations have been identified. If there is a strong family history of cancers, genetic counseling would be advised.
DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) test: The DUTCH test is an advanced hormone test that can help identify symptoms of hormonal imbalances. DUTCH testing can help patients manage risk, based on their unique hormonal profile.
Cancer-risk testing, although not yet perfect, is highly recommended, especially if you have a family history of the disease. Taking these tests can also help your doctor proactively tailor your care, depending on any medical predispositions.
Consider Seeking an Integrative Medical Practitioner
A board-certified physician with experience in functional medicine can work with you to safely tailor a vitamin and supplement plan based on your personal test results and health concerns.
If you are concerned about breast cancer, our doctors at The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine can work with you to tailor a scientifically-based program designed to lower the risk of cancer, while also helping you enjoy a healthy and active life.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Additional References:
[1] Brew, C.T., Aronchik, I., et al. 2009. “Indole-3-carbinol inhibits MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell motility and induces stress fibers and focal adhesion formation by activation of Rho kinase activity.” International Journal of Cancer, May 15;124(10):2294-302. [2] Simonpoulos, A.P. 2002. “The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids.” Biomed Pharmacother, Oct; 56(8):365-79. [3] Dietrich, M., Traber, M.G., et al. 2006. “Does gamma-tocopherol play a role in the primary prevention of heart disease and cancer? A review.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Aug;25(4):292-9. [4] Garland, C.F., Gorham, E.D., et al. 2009. “Vitamin D for cancer prevention; global perspective.” Annals of Epidemiology, Jul;19(7):468-83 [5] Rosanoff, A., Weaver, C.M., et al. 2012. “Suboptimal magnesium status in the United States: Are the health consequences underestimated?” Nutrition Review, Mar; 70(3): 153-64. [6] Chen, P., Li, C., Li, X., Li, J., Chu, R., and Wang, H. 2014. “Higher dietary folate reduces breast cancer risk.” British Journal of Cancer, 110(9):2327-38.
Has living with chronic low back pain affected your productivity, mobility, and overall ability to enjoy life?
In the United States, it’s estimated that nearly 16 million adults experience chronic back pain, making it one of the most costly health expenses annually and one of the most common complaints heard in doctors’ offices. Causes can include injury, disease (i.e. arthritis, cancer), obesity, poor posture, a sedentary lifestyle, even infection.
Patients with acute and sub-acute cases (pain that goes away within 3 months) may find that their pain improves over time without treatment of any kind. But not everyone has the ability to simply wait it out. In these cases, and when the pain becomes chronic, the American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends that non-invasive and non-drug therapies like exercise, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and other mind-body therapies should be the first line of treatment over surgery and narcotics, and we agree!
Remember, chronic pain, including low back pain, is a symptom of inflammation. Without targeting the root cause of the inflammation and treating it, your pain symptoms will not improve. Mind-body therapies help calm the inflammatory process in the body, promote healing, and present little to no risk to the patient.
Here are a few common misconceptions about treating back pain that can contribute to a slower recovery.
Myth: Exercise makes back pain even worse
Putting the brakes on exercise may seem like a good idea when you’re feeling pain symptoms, but research shows that the opposite is true. Strengthening and stretching exercises combined with aerobic activity will improve back pain symptoms by increasing blood flow, improving range of motion and flexibility, and strengthening core muscles.
· Physical Therapy is a great place to start if you’re concerned about further injuring or straining your back. Physical therapists have outstanding manual skills with a comprehensive understanding of body mechanics. They can work with you to decrease pain, improve movement, and provide instruction on how to continue moving safely in your everyday life.
· Going for a walk is one of the easiest ways to stay active. Try taking a short walk every day to keep your heart pumping and blood flowing.
· The poses, controlled breathing, and meditation involved in the practice of yoga can not only improve symptoms of chronic low back pain but can lower instances of depression and use of medication. As reducing back pain requires improving core strength, yoga is great for increasing core stability and strength while increasing awareness of other areas that may need stretching and strengthening.
Occasional use of NSAIDs can certainly be helpful if patients have seen little improvement with non-invasive treatments. But a big misconception about these OTC (over the counter) painkillers is that they’re completely safe and harmless. Regular use of NSAIDs can lead to problems with gut ulcers, liver damage, and kidney damage. Ironically NSAIDs can even heighten one’s sensitivity to pain. People who take them more than once a week should discuss this with their physician.
Myth: Mind-body therapies are unscientific
Dismissing the benefits of mind-body therapies is at the least, misguided. There is a mountain of evidence that supports the use of alternative therapies for pain management.
· Acupuncture: This 2000-year-old practice is thought to work by blocking pain messages to the brain with competing stimuli that cause an increase of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and the secretion of neurotransmitters, which affect one’s perception of pain.
In 2007 the results of a large study of over 1,100 patients with chronic back pain were published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. After 10 treatments, the group that received acupuncture had a 47% improvement in pain and functioning after six months.
· Massage Therapy: A 2011 study concluded that people who were treated with massage therapy, whether relaxation massage or structural massage (deep tissue massage), for their chronic back pain, saw benefits that lasted at least 6 months.
· Meditation: A study reported in the Journal of Neuroscience showed that patients who had received only a little more than 60 minutes of meditation training were able to dramatically reduce their experience of pain. Patients experienced a reduction in “pain intensity” of about 40 percent and a reduction in “pain unpleasantness” of 57 percent. According to the lead author of the study, Fadel Zeidan, “Meditation produced a greater reduction in pain than even morphine or other pain-relieving drugs, which typically reduce pain ratings by about 25 percent.”
Bottom line
Whether you have an acute, sub-acute, or chronic case of low back pain, the first line of treatment should be a therapy that can help calm the body’s inflammatory process naturally and safely. While there is unquestionably a time and a place for surgery or narcotics, medical evidence indicates that conservative treatment of low-back pain is often as effective.
If low back pain is interfering with your quality of life, please give us a call to learn more about how we can help with these wonderful and science-based therapies that can benefit your mind, body, and soul.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Using Acupuncture to Boost Fertility
/in Hormone Health, Treatments/by Lisa Lilienfield, MD– Are you over 35 and concerned about your ability to become pregnant?
– Are you under 35 and having difficulty conceiving?
– Do you have a condition that may be undermining your ability to become pregnant?
Dealing with infertility can be frustrating, financially draining, and in some cases, can lead to feelings of hopelessness. The problem of infertility is far from rare, however; according to an often-cited research study, fully 10-15% of couples in the US have difficulty conceiving.
Fortunately, medical breakthroughs including new medications, and high-technology treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), have helped many couples overcome fertility problems. But unfortunately, IVF and/or IUI can be a difficult journey for couples when the expected results are not achieved.
Medical research has demonstrated that acupuncture, which has been used for thousands of years to alleviate pain and boost the body’s immune system is a safe and clinically effective treatment for boosting fertility.
How does acupuncture help to improve fertility in women?
To date, most of the research on acupuncture and infertility has examined the effect of acupuncture when administered at or near the time of the IVF embryo transfer. As noted above, however, acupuncture elicits several beneficial physiological responses in the body, so it can be an effective, low-cost, and safe treatment not only for women undergoing IVF but for anyone wishing to get pregnant.
Overall, the research is very strong
Numerous studies have shown that pregnancy success rates increase when acupuncture is provided in conjunction with IVF (a process where the woman’s eggs are removed, fertilized with the man’s sperm, and then the healthy embryos are then implanted in the woman’s uterus).
In general, a woman may be up to 65% more likely to become pregnant if she is receiving acupuncture combined with IVF treatments, as compared to receiving IVF treatments alone.
Of course, men also can have infertility issues, and although there are fewer studies examining male infertility and acupuncture, the existing research suggests that acupuncture also plays a positive role in improving male fertility.
Finally, and just as important, the research indicates that there are no adverse side effects associated with using acupuncture to treat infertility.
Each couple’s infertility situation is unique
In women, medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) can affect ovulation and thereby undermine their ability to conceive.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excess alcohol use, stress, poor diet, excessive athletic training, and maintaining an unhealthy weight can create obstacles to getting pregnant.
Finally, age also plays a prominent role in fertility. As the years pass, a woman’s ovaries gradually become less able to release eggs, and the eggs produced are fewer and less robust. This said it is still very possible to have a healthy baby (or babies!) at an older age. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of women have their first child after age 35!
If you are under 35 and have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive for a year or more, talk with your physician to determine what fertility treatments would be most effective for you.
If you are over 35 and interested in getting pregnant, fertility experts recommend not waiting more than 6 months before seeking professional, medical assistance. Your doctor should administer fertility tests to determine the root of the problem. Identifying the cause of infertility will help determine the best course of action.
Most importantly, don’t lose hope.
At The Kaplan Center, we can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan, paying special attention to any chronic medical issues you may have, measuring your intracellular magnesium and vitamin-D levels, assessing your hormone balance, and helping you manage any situational stress you may be experiencing. We will partner with you to create a treatment plan that includes acupuncture, and we will be happy to coordinate your care with your fertility specialist or aid you in choosing a specialist.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Minimizing Breast Cancer Risk
/in Lifestyle, Women's Health/by Lisa Lilienfield, MDAccording to the American Cancer Society, about 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in 2020. A further 2,620 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men.
The causes of cancer are complex; genetics and our environment can play a large role. So while there is no sure way to prevent it, the tests, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations outlined below, along with the guidance of a trusted physician, can help minimize your risk.
Lifestyle Choices in Minimizing Cancer Risk
Lifestyle can play a very important role in minimizing your risk of cancer. I highly recommend the book, Keeping aBreast, by Dr. Khalid Mahmud, which offers the following suggestions for maintaining an optimal lifestyle (some of these also appear in well-regarded studies).
Risk Assessment Tests
There are currently many tests available to assess the risk of breast cancer – for the purpose of this article I have chosen 3 to mention:
While the BRCA gene mutation is the most common mutation associated with breast cancer, over the past few years other gene mutations have been identified. If there is a strong family history of cancers, genetic counseling would be advised.
Cancer-risk testing, although not yet perfect, is highly recommended, especially if you have a family history of the disease. Taking these tests can also help your doctor proactively tailor your care, depending on any medical predispositions.
Eat More Cancer-Fighting Foods
Click Here to Download the Infographic: Cancer Fighting Foods & Supplements PDF
Consider Seeking an Integrative Medical Practitioner
A board-certified physician with experience in functional medicine can work with you to safely tailor a vitamin and supplement plan based on your personal test results and health concerns.
If you are concerned about breast cancer, our doctors at The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine can work with you to tailor a scientifically-based program designed to lower the risk of cancer, while also helping you enjoy a healthy and active life.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Additional References:
[1] Brew, C.T., Aronchik, I., et al. 2009. “Indole-3-carbinol inhibits MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell motility and induces stress fibers and focal adhesion formation by activation of Rho kinase activity.” International Journal of Cancer, May 15;124(10):2294-302.
[2] Simonpoulos, A.P. 2002. “The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids.” Biomed Pharmacother, Oct; 56(8):365-79.
[3] Dietrich, M., Traber, M.G., et al. 2006. “Does gamma-tocopherol play a role in the primary prevention of heart disease and cancer? A review.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Aug;25(4):292-9.
[4] Garland, C.F., Gorham, E.D., et al. 2009. “Vitamin D for cancer prevention; global perspective.” Annals of Epidemiology, Jul;19(7):468-83
[5] Rosanoff, A., Weaver, C.M., et al. 2012. “Suboptimal magnesium status in the United States: Are the health consequences underestimated?” Nutrition Review, Mar; 70(3): 153-64.
[6] Chen, P., Li, C., Li, X., Li, J., Chu, R., and Wang, H. 2014. “Higher dietary folate reduces breast cancer risk.” British Journal of Cancer, 110(9):2327-38.
Updated: September 24, 2018.
Moving Forward with Back Pain
/in Treatments/by Kaplan CenterHas living with chronic low back pain affected your productivity, mobility, and overall ability to enjoy life?
In the United States, it’s estimated that nearly 16 million adults experience chronic back pain, making it one of the most costly health expenses annually and one of the most common complaints heard in doctors’ offices. Causes can include injury, disease (i.e. arthritis, cancer), obesity, poor posture, a sedentary lifestyle, even infection.
Patients with acute and sub-acute cases (pain that goes away within 3 months) may find that their pain improves over time without treatment of any kind. But not everyone has the ability to simply wait it out. In these cases, and when the pain becomes chronic, the American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends that non-invasive and non-drug therapies like exercise, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and other mind-body therapies should be the first line of treatment over surgery and narcotics, and we agree!
Remember, chronic pain, including low back pain, is a symptom of inflammation. Without targeting the root cause of the inflammation and treating it, your pain symptoms will not improve. Mind-body therapies help calm the inflammatory process in the body, promote healing, and present little to no risk to the patient.
Here are a few common misconceptions about treating back pain that can contribute to a slower recovery.
Myth: Exercise makes back pain even worse
Putting the brakes on exercise may seem like a good idea when you’re feeling pain symptoms, but research shows that the opposite is true. Strengthening and stretching exercises combined with aerobic activity will improve back pain symptoms by increasing blood flow, improving range of motion and flexibility, and strengthening core muscles.
· Physical Therapy is a great place to start if you’re concerned about further injuring or straining your back. Physical therapists have outstanding manual skills with a comprehensive understanding of body mechanics. They can work with you to decrease pain, improve movement, and provide instruction on how to continue moving safely in your everyday life.
· Going for a walk is one of the easiest ways to stay active. Try taking a short walk every day to keep your heart pumping and blood flowing.
· The poses, controlled breathing, and meditation involved in the practice of yoga can not only improve symptoms of chronic low back pain but can lower instances of depression and use of medication. As reducing back pain requires improving core strength, yoga is great for increasing core stability and strength while increasing awareness of other areas that may need stretching and strengthening.
Watch: Sun Salutations A & B with Dr. Lisa Lilienfield
Questions? Give Us a Call!
703-532-4892 x2
Myth: NSAIDs can’t hurt
Occasional use of NSAIDs can certainly be helpful if patients have seen little improvement with non-invasive treatments. But a big misconception about these OTC (over the counter) painkillers is that they’re completely safe and harmless. Regular use of NSAIDs can lead to problems with gut ulcers, liver damage, and kidney damage. Ironically NSAIDs can even heighten one’s sensitivity to pain. People who take them more than once a week should discuss this with their physician.
Myth: Mind-body therapies are unscientific
Dismissing the benefits of mind-body therapies is at the least, misguided. There is a mountain of evidence that supports the use of alternative therapies for pain management.
· Acupuncture: This 2000-year-old practice is thought to work by blocking pain messages to the brain with competing stimuli that cause an increase of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and the secretion of neurotransmitters, which affect one’s perception of pain.
In 2007 the results of a large study of over 1,100 patients with chronic back pain were published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. After 10 treatments, the group that received acupuncture had a 47% improvement in pain and functioning after six months.
Read: Relieve Your Chronic Back Pain with Acupuncture
· Massage Therapy: A 2011 study concluded that people who were treated with massage therapy, whether relaxation massage or structural massage (deep tissue massage), for their chronic back pain, saw benefits that lasted at least 6 months.
· Meditation: A study reported in the Journal of Neuroscience showed that patients who had received only a little more than 60 minutes of meditation training were able to dramatically reduce their experience of pain. Patients experienced a reduction in “pain intensity” of about 40 percent and a reduction in “pain unpleasantness” of 57 percent. According to the lead author of the study, Fadel Zeidan, “Meditation produced a greater reduction in pain than even morphine or other pain-relieving drugs, which typically reduce pain ratings by about 25 percent.”
Bottom line
Whether you have an acute, sub-acute, or chronic case of low back pain, the first line of treatment should be a therapy that can help calm the body’s inflammatory process naturally and safely. While there is unquestionably a time and a place for surgery or narcotics, medical evidence indicates that conservative treatment of low-back pain is often as effective.
If low back pain is interfering with your quality of life, please give us a call to learn more about how we can help with these wonderful and science-based therapies that can benefit your mind, body, and soul.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2