Dr. Diehl's Natural Pain Relief and Wellness

WHY Doesn't MY Dr Know This?

2012-01-25T10:29:00.001-08:00

The Insurance Model Is Broken

2012-01-18T13:15:00.001-08:00

Autoimmune Recovery Program

2011-09-06T11:19:00.000-07:00

Untitled from Thad Diehl on Vimeo.

Autoimmune Conditions

2011-08-11T07:16:00.000-07:00

A tale of five patients..... a gluten story

2011-03-25T10:58:00.000-07:00

In our practice, our focus is on chronic difficult to treat conditions using chiropractic, principals of functional neurology and functional medicine. Our philosophy is simple -“Fix the person, not their diagnosis”. Rather than label a patient with “x” disease, and give them a drug to suppress their symptoms, we want to be a really good detective. After performing a thorough history and exam, we run all the necessary tests which have not been done to find out what the underlying physiological mechanisms for each patient’s symptoms are. Why does this patient have these symptoms? It is not the same for everyone. A cookie cutter approach to chronic health problems simply doesn’t work.

While it is true that each patient is a unique individual ,there are some common underlying issues which must be addressed when dealing with chronic health challenges - anemia’s, blood sugar dysregulation, adrenal health, liver/GI dysfunction , errors in fatty acid metabolism, inflammation, autoimmunity and food sensitivities.

To illustrate the folly of treating a patient’s diagnosis or symptoms rather than addressing their physiology, I would like to share with you some actual cases from my office.

Patient #1 is a 9 year old boy diagnosed with ADHD. His parents were also concerned with his small stature (failure to thrive).

Patient # 2 is a 79 year old presenting with her chief complaint of peripheral neuropathy. She has also been diagnosed with polymyalgia, restless leg syndrome (RLS), Barret’s esophagus and Ulcerative Colitis. She has a son who suffers from MS.

Patient # 3 is a 51 year old woman who presents with chief complaint of hypothyroidism and related symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, thinning hair, constipation and cold hands and feet. She also has lupus. Her 15 year old son suffers from autism.

Patient # 4 is a 62 year old woman who presents with non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). She has never had a drink of alcohol in her life.

Patient # 5 is 64 year old man who presents with peripheral neuropathy and a history of depression. Emg studies are all normal and he has been to several neurologist without any answers.

What Do All Five of These Patients Have in Common?

They all are gluten sensitive or Celiac patients. When they eat gluten ( a protein found in wheat and some other grains; spelt, kamut, rye and barley) they are triggering an inflammatory immune response . Although their symptoms and tissues being effected are different, the underlying trigger, gluten, is the same.

I am not saying that this was the only problem that these people had but it is a major factor in their health challenges and they are not going to get better without addressing it. There is no medication that can fix this. Diet and lifestyle changes are a must.

But wait a minute, only one of them had obvious GI symptoms. Unfortunately this confuses a lot of people, including physicians, this leads to a failure to identify and properly address the issue of gluten and wheat sensitivity. “That gluten sensitivity is regarded as principally a disease of the small bowel is a historical misconception” “Patients with enteropathy (disease of the intestinal tract) represent about only one third of patients with neurological manifestations and gluten sensitivity”(1)

Gluten is not a factor in every chronic health problem but it is one of the most common contributing factors.
The New England Journal of Medicine calls it one of the most common lifelong disorders in the United States. About 1% of the U.S. has Celiac Disease and 6% are gluten sensitive. Yet it is still very poorly understood and under diagnosed within the traditional medical community. The average Celiac patient has suffered with symptoms for 8 years and been to 5 doctors before being properly diagnosed. It is estimated that for every one person diagnosed there are at least eight others suffering silently.(2) Undiagnosed Celiac has been linked with an increased risk of mortality.

Every healthcare practitioner should understand the varying manifestations of gluten sensitivities and Celiac disease. Pediatricians, dentists, dermatologists, neurologists, psychiatrist/psychologists, chiropractors and others have the opportunity and responsibility to identify these individuals in their practices. Unfortunately, very few understand the clinical signs and symptoms including: Osteoporosis, osteopenia, central and peripheral nervous system disorders, anemia’s, weight loss or gain, tooth enamel defects, dementia, autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, schizophrenia, infertility, early menopause, vitamin k deficiency, depression, dermatitis, organ disorders and fatigue.

Another problem is that there is no one perfect test and there is disagreement over which test should be used. Historically, a definitive Celiac diagnosis required a positive endoscopy revealing villous atrophy ( intestinal tissue destruction). This is the end result of the process. Our goal as practitioners should be to catch things early and not wait until tissue destruction has become advanced and obvious. Yet, there are still doctors relying on biopsies to make this diagnosis. “The diagnosis of early celiac disease should be based on a combination of the clinical features, histology, serology and genetics. Conventional histology is not anymore the gold standard in the diagnosis. The diagnosis criteria need to be revised”(3) The Mayo clinic has suggested that the presence of the genes and any symptoms warrants the trial of a gluten free diet.

Recent advances in laboratory testing for gluten sensitivity and the related neuro-immunological repercussions should provide for more definitive answers and better treatment outcomes. These new testing procedures offer a more comprehensive, sensitive and accurate means to identify gluten sensitivity people. This will allow the knowledgeable practitioner to better serve their patients and community. These new procedures are some of the most cutting edge testing available and represent a new frontier in gluten sensitivity testing and treatment.

Two other problems a gluten reactive person can face are cross contamination and cross reactivity. Cross contamination comes from agricultural, storage and preparation techniques that expose a normally gluten free product or food to small amounts of gluten. Even in these small amounts, this can be enough to adversely affect someone. Oats are the best example of this. Technically gluten free, the majority of commercially grown oats are cross contaminated. When in doubt, it is best to avoid.

Cross reactivity is when a non-gluten containing food initiates a similar reaction in a gluten sensitive person. Some common offenders include: cow’s milk, cheese, chocolate, sesame, hemp, rye, barley, buckwheat, sorghum, millet, spelt, amaranth, quinoa, yeast, tapioca, oats, coffee, corn, rice and potato. Thankfully, laboratory testing for these reactive foods is also now available.

Simply removing gluten, wheat and other offending foods from the diet may not be enough. There is usually a lot of inflammation that must be addressed, an immune system that needs to be calmed down, and an abnormal gut flora (bacteria, parasites, yeast etc) that needs corrected. Fortunately, there are many natural substances - antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and botanicals that can help us accomplish this.

Adopting a gluten free lifestyle, when necessary, is not an easy change to make but it is absolutely essential. Fortunately, as awareness grows there are becoming many more options available for gluten sensitive consumers. It is essential that you educate yourself on how to read labels. A good resource library is a must. Joining a support group or finding others who have made a similar lifestyle change can be very helpful. One complaint I hear often is “Gluten free food is so expensive”. It’s much cheaper than being sick. Remember just because it’s says gluten free doesn’t mean its good for you. I see many people filling up on gluten free junk food. A diet consisting of meats, nuts, seeds, vegetables , low glycemic index fruits and healthy fats is best. It is important to concentrate on all the things you can eat rather than dwell on the few things that you have to give up. With the help and guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner, you can take control of your health and change your life.

(1)J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2007;72. 560-563.
(2)Gastroenterology, 2001 636-651.
(3)Am J of Gastroenrol 2006 march 101(3)

Dr. Diehl becomes PA's first certified "Gluten Coach"

2011-02-09T13:39:00.000-08:00

Why Traditional Treatment (Hormone Replacement) Fails To Help The Majority Of Low Thyroid Symptoms

2010-12-08T06:18:00.000-08:00

On this video I give a brief run down of thyroid physiology and explanation why traditional medical management of low thyroid symptoms often fails.

Two Questions

2010-11-22T12:08:00.000-08:00

As a provider of alternative healthcare, when I explain to someone what is causing their symptoms and how we can help them they almost always ask "Why doesn't my doctor know this?" and when we go over the limitations of what their insurance will cover towards their care, they will ask "Why doesn't my insurance cover this?". Until recently, I did not have a good answer for them. I usually would say something like "I don't know, they should".

I recently came across a great article by the National Hypothyroid Association that does a great job of answering these two questions.
"Historically they (doctors) have failed to adapt new concepts and treatment based on new knowledge or new-found understanding demonstrated in the medical literature....have a long history of guidelines and recommendations that are not supported by the medical literature and fail to adjust or abandon recommnendations when new understanding and knowledge contradicts their recommendations. A doctor who simply follows guidelines that rely on simple laboratory test and ignores the clinical aspects of a patient is not procticing evidence based medicine. This method of practice is consistently rebuked as improper and poor medicine has become the standard of care for a large percentage of endocrinologist and physicians who feel medicine can be related to simply reading "normal" or "abnormal" in a laboratory column" .

According to William shankle, M.D., Professor, University of California, Irvine "Most doctors are practicing 10-20 years behind the available medical literature."

With regard to insurance, the article states; "The current insurance reimbursement system in the United States fosters this thinking, as the worst physicians are financially rewarded by insurance companies. While it is true that the best physicians are continually fighting to provide cutting edge treatments and superior care that the insurance company deems not "medically necessary"........insurance company restrictions on treatments and diagnostic procedures have made the same poor care afforded those of low socioeconomic status the new standard of care for society at large....... the best physicans will seek out and translate both basic science results and clinical outcomes to decide the safest, most efficacious treatment for their patients. Further, the best physicans will continually assess the current available data to decide which therapies are likely to carry the greatest benefits for patients and involve the lowest risks."

I don't want to totally bash medicine but medicine is for acute care. When it comes to chronic conditions (fibromyalgia, migraines, peripheral neuropathies, diabetes, thyroid problems etc.) you have to look at all the systems of the body. You have to look outside the box.

We have the success we do because of our philosophy - "Fix the person and not their diagnosis" and our never ending comittment to provide cutting edge, evidenced based care to our patients.

If you are suffering from a chronic condition, I invite you to find out whether our comprehensive Neuro-Metabolic approach may be righ for you.

Autistic Spectrum Disorders

2010-11-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

Workshop Thursday November 11th 6:15. Seating is limited. Please call (814)238-0232 to reserve your seat

Peripheral Neuropathy Relief - The Rebuilder

2010-10-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

Dizziness, Vertigo and Balance Problems

2010-06-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

Dizziness, vertigo and balance problems account for up to 10% of all physician visits. Dizziness is the number one reason for physician visits in people over age 65 and will affect 50% of all adults at one time or another. In 2005, the estimated cost for medical treatment of dizziness and balance disorders exceeded 1 billion dollars. These conditions can range from a mild annoyance to a life altering experience.

Good balance and stability are dependent on input from these three systems:

1) Vestibular System- Canals and Otoliths

2) Visual System

3) Proprioceptive System (especially from the cervical spine) – a complex network of nerves in skin, muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments that send important sensory information to your brain regarding your body’s position in space.

Input from all three systems is processed and calibrated in your cerebellum. Located in the back part of your brain, the cerebellum is responsible for all balance and coordinated movement. Deficits in any one of these three areas, often times can be compensated for, if you have good cerebellar function.

Traditional management of dizziness and balance problems focuses almost entirely on the canals. A patient might be prescribed antivert or meclizine. Some patients are diagnosed with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and may have a doctor or physical therapist perform something called Epley’s Maneuver (a canal repositioning technique). Unfortunately, if either of these two things doesn’t work, a person is often told they will have to live with it.

If you are still suffering from dizziness, vertigo or other balance problems and it is not a hard lesion (tumor etc), you either have a peripheral problem which hasn’t been addressed or a bad cerebellum. Any balance recovery program should involve cerebellar rehabilitation as a central component. The cerebellum is like a top and as it slows down we start to wobble a little bit more. There are specific activities or therapies we can use to help activate or stimulate the cerebellum to increase its firing rate.

The cerebellum is also one of the most metabolically sensitive tissues in the body. It is very susceptible to changes in fuel supply (oxygen and glucose) and toxins (ex ethanol). Unfortunately, as we age, our body’s ability to utilize oxygen decreases by about 1%/year after the age of 20. By combining supplemental oxygen with exercise and cerebellar rehabilitation we can help our patients get better faster.

A thorough functional evaluation can determine which area(s) of the brain and nervous system are involved in a person’s problem. Once these areas are identified, they can be addressed to through specific neurologically based therapies. By handling any metabolic factors (blood sugar, anemia’s. inflammation, allergies/food sensitivities etc) that are contributing to your problem or preventing you from getting better, we can greatly improve our outcomes

To determine whether you are a candidate fro Dr. Diehl’s Balance Recovery Program, please call our office at (814)238-0232.

Peripheral Neuropathy - Find the CAUSE

2010-05-17T12:59:00.000-07:00

Peripheral Neuropathy (PN) is a condition in which the nerves of the peripheral nervous system (most commonly hands or feet) have been damaged. PN can be caused by structural problems, disease processes that directly affect the nerve or be due to the effect of a systemic illness. It is estimated that as many as 20 million Americans suffer from this condition.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:
• Pins and needles feeling
• Numbness in the hands or feet
• Tingling or burning sensations
• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Sharp shooting or burning pains

Traditional medical management involves prescribing drugs like Neurontin, Gabapentin, Klonopin, Topamax or Lyrica to help dampen these symptoms. This may be a little bit helpful for a little while but I haven’t seen anyone who this gave complete or permanent relief. None of these drugs actually address the cause of the peripheral neuropathy. Often times PN is labeled “idiopathic neuropathy” which means “we don’t know what the cause is”. The reason for this is usually it hasn’t been looked for.

In our office we look for and address several causes including:

1)Blood Sugar- Most people are aware that diabetics can develop neuropathies but many aren’t aware that you don’t have to be diabetic to have a problem with blood sugar. You could be insulin resistant or have a condition called Metabolic Syndrome or simply be dysglycemic. Blood sugar issues need to be recognized and addressed.

2)Autoimmune secondary to food sensitivities – An autoimmune condition is a where your immune system attacks your own body. One tissue that can be attacked is myelin, the fatty sheath that surrounds nerves. Foods sensitivities can be a common trigger for this attack. These need to be identified and removed.

3)Statin Drugs- Cholesterol lowering drugs also lower Coq10 levels which is required for ATP(energy) production. ATP is needed by every cell in the body. Statins can suppress ATP levels to the point that nerves cannot maintain their electrochemical gradient. The result is a neuropathy.

4)Toxicity- Chemotherapy is a big cause of neuropathy in our age advancing population. Heavy metals can be another. Toxic exposure can be mitigated.

5)Parietal Lobe Problems The parietal lobe of the brain is an area responsible for receiving proprioceptive information from skin, muscle, tendons, ligaments and joints. If you have a problem with your parietal lobe these messages can become distorted and you will have symptoms like numbness, tingling and burning. These deficits can be addressed through specific therapies.

A useful tool in the treatment of neuropathy is the Rebuilder. This device uses 7.83 dual pulsed electrotherapy to stimulate the nerves and the muscles. It is currently being used by Cancer Treatment Centers of America specifically to address peripheral neuropathy symptoms. While it is effective, unless the underlying causes are managed, the relief will be incomplete or short lived.

By doing the necessary testing and examinations, the causes of peripheral neuropathy can be determined and addressed through diet, supplementation and therapies. To find out if we can help you please call our office to schedule a Case Review and Neuropathy Screening (814)238-0232.

A Functional Approach to Childhood Developmental Disorders

2010-04-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

A child born today has a 1/150 chance of being labeled with autism. The autistic spectrum covers a number of increasingly common childhood developmental/behavioral disorders including:

• Autism
• Asperger’s
• PDD/NOS
• ADD
• ADHD

Each of these is classified by specific qualitative behavioral impairments. While they all differ in some ways, the underlying causative factors are very similar. The VAST majority of these children have right frontal lobe deficits. The frontal lobe acts as the executive.

Frontal lobe functions
• Attention
• Focus
• Planning
• Motivation
• Personality
• Appropriate Modulation of emotions
• Appropriate modulation of Reflexes

Boys have larger right frontal lobes so they are more affected by a right sided delay which may explain the increased incidence of these conditions in males. Anything that interferes with prenatal development, the birthing process, or healthy growth and development during the first two years of life can affect how the right brain develops. During the first 16 – 18 months of development, development is largely right brain. At around this time, the emphasis switches to the left side. This is the time when a ‘regression’ may first be noticed. This imbalance between the right and left brain rarely will correct on its own.

Right Brain Left Brain

Big Picture Small Picture
Non-verbal communication Verbal communication
Large Muscle Control Small Muscle Control
EQ (emotion) IQ
Cautious and Safe Curious and Impulsive
Likes newness, novelty Likes routines
Social skills

So in a child with a right brain deficit and/or dominant left hemisphere you would see a child who may be uncoordinated, impulsive, likes routines (and is upset if disrupted), is into the details or obsessed with parts and how things work, has difficulty interpreting facial cues and has poor social skills. Some children will have verbal delay because language is heavily dependent on a foundation of non-verbal communication (understanding ones emotions, facial expression, body language etc).

This hemispheric imbalance can be addressed through specific brain based therapies. It is also important to avoid stimulating the dominant hemisphere and further accentuate the discrepancy. A thorough evaluation and understanding of these disorders is necessary for this approach to be effective.

While these conditions have a strong neurological component, there is also a complex network of GI, immune, hormone and other metabolic factors which must be unraveled. Addressing these factors through diet, lifestyle and specific supplementation can greatly improve the success of any other treatments or therapies.

To request a Case Review and Functional Assessment of your child to determine whether Brain Based Therapy and Functional Nutrition may be right for them, please call our office (814)238-0232

A four Part Approach to Chronic Health Problems

2010-04-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

Chronic pain and other health problems can be debilitating. Unfortunately, there are no easy answers. Traditionally, medications are used to help manage or dampen the symptoms. Often times these medications are accompanied by unwanted side effects. Also, over time, they may become less effective.

Overcoming chronic health problems requires time and commitment. The approach used in our office is to support and improve function through:

1) Diet A healthy well balanced diet is essential to good health and healing. Making the right food choices is very important and may require guidance and supervision. Just as important as knowing what to eat, is knowing what not to eat. Many people have unknown food sensitivities and they continue to eat things daily that are making their condition worse. Finding and eliminating these hidden food sensitivities is critical to improving their health.

2) Lifestyle
a. Sleep- We recover and heal while we sleep. A person should get at least 7-8 hours/night. Long term deprivation can contribute to many health problems.
b. Stress Reduction- Many chronic health problems are caused by or exacerbated by stress physiology. Today’s fast pace lifestyle leave many of us in a perpetual state of “fight or flight”. You can not heal in this state.
c. Exercise- The benefits of exercise are many and well established. Unfortunately, many people’s conditions prevent them from being able to exercise. Whole Body Vibration (WBV) may be a suitable substitute until a person is physically able to exercise on their own.

3) Specific Supplementation- Most people believe that taking supplements is important for their health but how do you know what to take and how do you know that it is helpful? If you are buying supplements at the grocery store on the advice of your neighbor, there is a very good chance that you are throwing money away. In our office, we use only the highest quality all natural supplements. We base all of our supplement recommendations on lab findings and use follow up labs to monitor their effectiveness. It is important to monitor not only that you’re feeling better but that you’re functioning better and that your physiology has improved.

4) Brain Based Therapy – A healthy brain and nervous system are essential to good health and bodily function. Your brain and nervous system need 2 things to be healthy: Fuel and activation (use it or lose it). Fuel comes in the form of glucose and oxygen. Managing glucose levels is very important. Unfortunately as we age our bodies ability to utilize oxygen decreases. We use supplemental oxygen with our chronic patients to help them heal faster. By combining exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) we can increase brain function and help a number of chronic health problems.

To discover whether Dr. Diehl may be able to help you with your health problem, please call (814)238-0232 to request a consultation and case review.

Glutathione and Chronic Health Problems

2010-01-18T13:02:00.000-08:00

Your Body can’t live without Glutathione…The World’s Most Powerful Antioxidant!

Have you been feeling more tired, run down, coming down with colds or the flu, have a lack of energy, increased aches and pains that weren’t there a couple of years ago, or you’re unable to recuperate as quickly from exercise and physical activity as you once were?

You can now have a naturally occurring substance that acts as a powerful antioxidant, and immune system booster, and a detoxifier? A substance that can help your body repair damage caused by stress, pollution, radiation, infection, drugs, poor diet, aging, injury, trauma and burns? It’s called Glutathione.
What is Glutathione? Also called GSH, Glutathione is the most powerful, prevalent antioxidant in your body. The most well known antioxidants are vitamins C and E. Glutathione is a tripeptide molecule composed of the amino acids glutamic acid, cysteine and glycine, which exists in almost every cell of your body. Our glutathione level actually indicates our state of health and can predict longevity. Scientific evidence has found that glutathione is needed by our body to enhance the immune system response. There are more than 60,000 published papers on the beneficial effects of glutathione replacement, unfortunately, it is still largely ignored by mainstream medicine. Normal glutathione levels are important for good health because they neutralize free radicals, which can build up in cells and cause damage.

The Bad News… Your body’s cellular supply of glutathione begins to decline 10% to 15% per decade beginning with the age of 20. If you are over age 20, you have a glutathione shortage! Lower levels of glutathione can result in chronic illness such as… lower energy or fatigue, a weakened immune system, cellular damage, accelerated aging, and higher cellular inflammation, which results in increased muscle and joint aches and pains. Free radicals constantly are attacking our cells, which is why antioxidants are so vital to protecting our health. Glutathione has been called the World’s Most Powerful Antioxidant, and is found in every cell in the body, but, most people need some help.

The Good News!… Research shows that increasing your Glutathione levels has the following benefits:

Fight Organ and Muscle Inflammation
Increase Your Energy
Slow Down the Aging Process
Detoxify Your Body
Improve Liver Function
Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Strengthen Your Immune System
Improve Mental Function and Clarity
Improve Heart and Lung Function

In this video Dr. Mark Hyman, M.D. explains why glutathione is so important and how the body needs it to fight inflammation:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eh2PYQBICWs

Uncontrolled inflammation is a root cause of most major health issues ranging from heart conditions to joint and muscular conditions. Abundant glutathione levels will off-set the effects of this inflammation at the cellular level. Because glutathione is in every cell, it can regulate inflammation throughout the body.

Adding antioxidants to your diet is a tremendous help, but it is Glutathione… the world’s most powerful natural antioxidant – that is Most Important for Protecting Healthy Cells.

Glutathione cannot be taken orally to create any great increase in blood levels. We have several alternative ways to administer glutathione. To discover how glutathione and brain-based therapy can benefit you, call our office at 814-238-0232.

Autoimmune Disease Support

2010-01-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

As many as 1 in 5 Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease. Many of them are undiagnosed. Auto immune diseases occur when the body’s immune response becomes hypersensitive and begins attacking cells, tissues and organs in the body. There are usually underlying predispositions to these conditions, however, many will not present until triggered by something in the environment. This can be an infection, a food sensitivity, a hormone problem, blood sugar dysregulation, toxins and/or inflammation. The name of the condition and its clinical manifestations are dependent upon which tissue or organ (thyroid, pancreas, brain etc) is being attacked. Some of these diseases include

· Addison’s disease
· Celiacs disease
· Chron’s Disease
· Graves disease
· Hashimoto’s thryoiditis
· Juvenile Diabetes
· Lupus
· Multiple sclerosis
· Psoriatic arthritis
· Rheumatoid Arthritis
· Scleroderma
· Sjogren’s

Although not technically autoimmune, many individuals who suffer from Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue have associated autoimmune diseases

For a comprehensive list visit http://www.aarda.org/research_display.php?ID=47

Traditional treatment of autoimmune disease is mainly through immune-suppression with medications that down regulate the immune response, corticosteroids that also reduce inflammation, or plasmapheresis. Some of these treatments may make the individual more susceptible to certain infections and cancers.

An alternative management strategy is to first remove the trigger(s) –stabilize blood sugar and hormones, decrease inflammation, and remove irritants (bacteria, yeast, parasites, virus, foods, heavy metals etc). Then, the immune system is supported through diet and supplementation. Nutritional supplementation can be general or very specific.

Further testing is needed to be specific. There are two parts to the immune system, TH1 and TH2. Certain botanicals, vitamins and other nutrients can support or stimulate one part or the other.

TH1
TH1 is your T-cells. T-cells are the army that attacks and cleans up afterword. (Helper T-cells, Suppressor T-cells, Natural Killer Cells, regulatory T-cells, and macrophages. TH1 response is stimulated by

· Echinacea
· Garlic
· Vitamin C
· Immune stimulants
· Licorice root
· Astralagus
· Betab-glucan mushroom
· Maitake Mushroom
· Lemon Balm

TH2
TH2 is your B-cells. B-cells make anti-bodies. They tell T-cells what to kill. Your TH2 response is stimulated by

· Caffeine
· Green tea
· Grape seed extract
· Herbal barks (cramp bark, pine bark, white willow bark)
· Lycopene
· Resveratrol
· Pycnogenol

In autoimmune patients, one side can become hyperactive and dominate over the other. By further testing and analysis of the immune system to determine the mechanics of the persons immune dysfunction, more specific support appropriate to their immune pattern can be provided. It also becomes important to not take anything that is going to be stimulating the already dominant side. Balancing this system goes a along way in reducing a patients symptoms.

Fibromyalgia and Thyroid Problems

2009-12-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

Fibromyalgia is a form of generalized muscular pain and fatigue that affects approximately 3.7 million Americans. The name, Fibromyalgia, means pain in the muscles and the fibrous connective tissues (the ligaments and tendons). Fibromyalgia lacks laboratory abnormalities; instead, the diagnosis depends mostly on a person’s report or complaints and feelings. Pain is the most prominent symptom of Fibromyalgia. It generally occurs throughout the body although it may start in one region, such as the neck and shoulders, and spread to other areas over a period of time.

Most people with Fibromyalgia experience moderate or severe fatigue with a lack of energy, decreased exercise endurance, or the kind of exhaustion that results from the flu or lack of sleep. Sometimes the fatigue is more of a problem that the pain. Headaches, especially muscular (tension headaches) and migraine headaches, are common in Fibromyalgia. Abdominal pain, bloating, alternating constipation, bladder spasms, and irritability may cause urinary urgency or frequency. Your skin and blood circulation can be sensitive to temperature changes, resulting in temporary changes in skin color.

Fibromyalgia is a very complex network of neurological, immune system, hormonal, and inflammatory issues. In a previous issue I discussed the neurological component of Fibromyalgia. In this edition I would like to explore the thyroid’s relationship and its influence as an underlying factor in many cases of fibromyalgia.

There is a considerable amount of scientific evidence that suggest FMS is a condition of abnormally slow metabolism. The clinical features of Fibromyalgia and hypothyroidism are very similar. A number of studies verify that hypothyroidism is the most common underlying disorder. The incidence of hypothyroidism may be as high 5x greater than in the general population.

Symptoms of Low Thyroid Function
· fatigue
· weight gain
· hair loss
· constipation
· low libido
· cold hands and feet
· depression
· insomnia
· heart palpitations
Clearly, the thyroid must be investigated and managed appropriately when dealing with the fibromyalgia patient. Unfortunately, most of the patients I see taking thyroid replacement hormone still are suffering from many of the symptoms of low thyroid function. In his new book “Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms When My Lab Test Are Normal?” Dr. Datis Kharrazian explains why. This book is highly recommended for anyone suffering from hypothyroidism (or believes that they may be) and the doctors who care for them. There are six basic patterns of thyroid dysfunction identified and only one will respond favorably to hormone replacement therapy (and not all of these). A complete thyroid panel (i.e. more than TSH and T4) is necessary to determine the mechanism of thyroid dysfunction and the appropriate intervention. In our office, we use specific all natural protocols based on Dr. Kharrazian’s seminars and book with great success.

The successful treatment of fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive multi faceted approach that looks at ALL the causes and contributing factors. In our office, we incorporate neurologically based therapies, diet, lifestyle, stress management and appropriate supplementation based on specific lab testing to help many chronic conditions.

To discover whether this approach may be right for you please call our office at (814)238-0232 to schedule a comprehensive Case Review.

Breakthrough in Allergy Relief

2009-08-12T09:06:00.002-07:00

We are the only office in central Pennsylvania to offer allergy and sensitivity symptom relief using the FDA cleared, U.S. patented Bax 3000. www.allergyfreeyoucanbe.com

This new technology may be the answer to finally eliminating your allergies or other sensitivities. We are proud to introduce the BAX 3000, a fully automated and computerized device that combines principles of Eastern Medicine with a modern day understanding of the nervous system's role in physical wellness.

Utilizing a unique Substance Specific Stress-Reduction Strategy, The BAX 3000 teaches the body to maintain normal function during exposure to environmental (and other) stressors.

THIS IS A UNIQUE, SCIENCE BASED APPROACH TO SYMPTOM ELIMINATION

The effects of stress, and stress relief, on health is not theoretical.as the body of evidence clearly and overwhelmingly demonstrates this link. The BAX 3000 approach to wellness is rooted in these 4 statements, each proven factual by objective, published research:

1) Stress causes or exacerbates most health related conditions.

2) A general reduction of stress levels can significantly decrease symptoms of many conditions.

3) The brain creates associations between stressful events and substances.

4) If these associations can be broken, by introducing a positive stimulus in conjunction with the specific stress inducing substance... symptoms can be eliminated.

To schedule your Allergy Survey and BAX analysis call our office at (814)238-0232.

Gluten Sensitivity and Intolerance

2009-08-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

There is an increasing amount of interest and information on the subject of gluten (a protein found in wheat and some other grains) sensitivity and a gluten free lifestyle. With this comes a good deal of misinformation and confusion.

The most well known (but still very poorly diagnosed) and extreme gluten sensitivity is Celiac Disease, a gluten triggered autoimmune attack on the small intestine. Celiac disease is confirmed by a biopsy of the small intestine revealing tissue destruction, but it isn’t that clear cut. Gluten sensitivity can, and does, exist without obvious damage to the intestines. I have actually had patients who suspected they might have gluten sensitivities ask their primary doctor about it only to be dismissed because they didn’t have obvious gastrointestinal symptoms. Celiac and gluten sensitivity can manifest a wide array of non- GI symptoms including: osteoporosis, osteopenia, central and peripheral nervous system disorders, anemias, weight loss or gain, tooth enamel defects, dementia, autism, Aspergers, ADHD, schizophrenia, infertility and early menopause, depression, vitamin K deficiency, dermatitis, organ disorders and fatigue.

There also seems to be some disagreement over which testing method to use to confirm a gluten sensitivity. Many doctors rely on blood testing; however, I feel that stool testing is more sensitive and accurate. Antibodies produced as the result of gluten sensitivity are mainly secreted into the intestine rather than the blood, analyzing stool turns up many more positive tests than blood tests. It is only when the immune reaction has been present for long periods of time and/or the process is far advanced that antibodies are produced in quantities sufficient to leak into the blood.

One thing is for certain, the number of people and with gluten sensitivities is on the rise. Research studies suggest that this is not just due to increased awareness and better screening. Modern wheat is very different from the wheat eaten by our ancestors. As a result of hybridization, wheat today has much higher levels of gluten proteins.

In chronically ill patients, gluten sensitivities must be considered. If indicated, removing wheat from these patients diets can have profound effects on their health. One study using MRI revealed a reversing of plaquing of the brain (as seen in Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis) in wheat sensitive individuals following a year of being wheat free.

Living gluten free is not easy but there is an ever expanding availability of these foods and products. Grocery stores, restaurants, and even amusement parks and major league stadiums are offering gluten free options. There are also some excellent books on the subject that are very helpful making the transition to a gluten free lifestyle.

Join the State College Support Group for their bi-monthly meeting Wednesday August 26th 2009 7:00pm at Mt Nittany Medical Center, Room 3. Share recipes and learn about living gluten free.

Dr Diehl's Recent Radio Interview

2009-06-17T07:14:00.000-07:00

Listen to my recent radio interview for Health News in which we discuss our approach to chronic health problems.

http://2ndcousininterviews.s3.amazonaws.com/1-01_Dr_Diehl_Interview.mp3

Please listen and share with others. I hope you enjoy it.

Have a great day

Dr. Diehl

Life Changing Chiropractic Care

2009-03-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

A colleaugue of mine also trained by Doctor Michael L Johnson recently posted this amazing Brain Based Therapy success story to youtube. I had to share it with all of you. This is powerful.
Please watch and share with others.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGAyTKyBj20

Kids Need Chiropractic

2009-03-05T05:23:00.000-08:00

A lot of people know that chiropractic works great for back pain, neck pain and headaches. Most people don't know the benefit infants and children get from gentle, specific chiropractic care. My son Cash has been under chiropractic care since the day he was born and, as a father, I know he has benefitted tremendously. I can't imagine him growing up without it. Cash has never had an ear infection and never taken medication of any kind in his life (There are and there may be times when medications are necessary but overall as a society we are grossly overmedicated). Chiropractic is about restoring and maintaining the integrity of the nervous system. This is crucial during these early years of development.

I take care of many seriously unhealthy people suffering from chronic health problems. It has taken YEARS for their spines, nervous systems and overall function to degrade to this point. I am very grateful for the opportunity to help them but it is also very sad that we wait to this point to make our health a priority. Health is a continuum. Our choices and lifestyle today will have an effect on us and our family for years to come. Chiropractic helps grow healthier children and adults.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression

2009-03-03T10:02:00.000-08:00

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) is a great technique to address disc problems of the neck and low back, spinal stenosis, failed back surgery and other problems. What makes our approach unique is that we also address the cerebellum (The cerebellum is in the back part of the brain. It controls balance, coordinated movement and the muscles along the spine. If the cerebellum is not firing properly, these muscles will spasm, vertebral joints will lock up and spinal discs will bulge and degenerate.) and core stability and strength using the ATM2. This multi-pronged approach greatly improves our success with chronic neck and back pain sufferers.

To schedule a Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Qualification Consultation please call our office at (814)238-0232.

ATM2 Active Therapeutic Movement

2009-03-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

The ATM2 is a great tool for eleminating painful movement patterns, improving posture, increasing range of motion and improving performance. Many professional athletes (especially golfers) like Ernie Els us the ATM2 as part of their training and rehabilation. If you or anyone you know could benefit from the ATM2, please let us know and we'll schedule a free trial.

Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis

2009-02-09T17:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T13:56:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to you all. I hope that everyone had a nice holiday season and is looking forward to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2009.

One of my major goals for 2009 is to do a better job of educating my friends and practice members about their health and well being. I hope to do a lot of writing and speaking this year. So please stay tuned over the coming months. We are going to talk about a number of different health problems that you may not have known we could help you with, as well as the tools and strategies we use to do so.

I look forward to helping each of you reach your health goals this year.

Thank You!

2008-11-23T17:44:00.000-08:00

I give sincere thanks to all of you who have given me the opportunity to assist you in recovering from pain and any other health challenges you have faced. I am thankful for the understanding, support, and love of my family.

I wish you and yours health, love, and happiness over the coming holiday season.

In Health,

Dr. Diehl

Should you get a flu shot?

2008-10-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Before you do, you need to ask yourself several questions: 1) What is in a flu shot? 2) How do they work? 3) Are they effective? and 4) Are they safe? Answers to the first two questions can be found at http://www.909shot.com/Diseases/influenzafacts.htm. The answers to 3 and 4 are not really. You need to do the research and make the best decision for yourself and your family. The bottom line is - Do the risks associated with getting the shot (ie Guillain Barre Syndrome, increased Alzheimers risks etc) outweigh the benefit of possibly not getting the flu.

Personally, I believe in this and other health related matters that we would be far better served by actively pursuing health (eating right, supplementing, exercising, taking care of our spine and nervous system etc) rather than just doing things to avoid being sick.

Would you rather survive or thrive?

Here is a link to a great article on Dr. Mercola's website (a fantastic natural health resource) regarding the benefit of vitamin D supplementation during flu season. http://v.mercola.com/blogs/public_blog/avoid-flu-shots----vitamin-d-is-a-better-way-70873.aspx

Fibromyalgia Success Stories

2008-09-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

Brain based therapy is helping fibromyalgia sufferers take back their lives. Our office and over 300 doctors across the country are experiencing amazing success stories like the one you can listen to below. Don't suffer any longer. If you or anyone you know have fibromyalgia or chronic pain, please call our office and schedule an appointment to find out if you qualify for this type of care. A brief consultation and screening will allow us to find out if you have a problem we can help.

Call (814)238-0232.

To listen to and read more testimonials or find a doctor in another area, please visit http://www.lifechangingcare.com/

Brain Based Therapy, an exciting solution to chronic health problems

2008-09-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

We are proud to be working with Dr Michael L Johnson, one of the country's leading chiropractic neurologist and author of the book "What do you do when the medications don't work. A non-drug solution to migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, dizziness and other chronic conditions". As part of a group of only about 300 doctors trained by Dr. Johnson, we are experiencing fantastic results helping people with fibromyalgia, headaches, dizziness, vertigo, chronic fatigue, spinal stenosis, sciatica, disc herniations, carpal tunnel and other chronic conditions. Over the following months I will share more and show you some of the exciting new technology we are using.