Neuropathy A Factor In Long Term HIV

Today's post from aidsmap.com (see link below) looks at the various health problems that may affect long-term and older HIV-patients and these include neuropathy. HIV medication is now so effective, that most people can expect to live a virtually normal life span but that doesn't mean that they are free from HIV-related co-morbidities (either caused by the virus or long-term medication, or normal old age) that can seriously affect their quality of life. The question will always be: are these complications the result of normal ageing, or are they HIV-related? Most experts seem to agree that HIV can definitely be a factor in contracting neuropathy but other diseases may come from other sources. Worth a read.
 

Geriatric conditions common in middle-aged and older HIV-positive men
Michael Carter Published: 17 June 2015

Geriatric conditions were common in middle-aged and older HIV-positive adults in a San Francisco clinic, investigators report in the June 1st edition of the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. Common conditions included pre-frailty, difficulties with activities of daily living and cognitive impairment. A quarter of patients reported falls or urinary incontinence. The authors were concerned that these conditions of older age were occurring earlier in their HIV-positive patients – who had a median age of just 57 years - compared to individuals in the general population.

“Our findings suggest that even in middle-aged HIV-infected adults with controlled HIV, the burden of geriatric syndromes is important and will need to be addressed clinically to minimize age-related complications in this population,” comment the investigators.

Improvements in treatment and care mean that many HIV-positive patients now have an excellent life expectancy and are living well into old age. But there’s now a considerable corpus of research showing that HIV-infection is associated with a number of co-morbidities - such as cardiovascular disease and reduced bone mineral density – normally associated with older age.

Geriatric syndromes such as frailty, falls and functional impairment are multifactorial conditions used to identify vulnerable older adults. Little is known about the prevalence and risk factors for these syndromes in patients with HIV. Investigators from the University of California San Francisco therefore designed a cross-sectional study to determine how common these factors are in older (aged 50 plus) HIV-positive individuals and to see if any HIV- and non-HIV-related factors increased the risk of these syndromes.

Their study population comprised 155 patients enrolled in the SCOPE study (an ongoing study of HIV infection in adults). All were taking antiretroviral therapy with viral suppression for a median of three years; median CD4 count was over 500 cells/mm3.

Using questionnaires and physical examinations, the patients were assessed for geriatric syndromes including falls, urinary incontinence, functional and mobility impairment, impaired hearing and vision, depression, cognitive impairment and frailty. Data were also gathered on co-morbid conditions and use of medication to treat these ailments.

Participants had been living with HIV for a median of 21 years. Almost all (94%) were men. Co-morbid conditions were highly prevalent, with a median of four per patient, and individuals were taking a median of nine non-antiretroviral medications to control these conditions. The most common co-morbidities were elevated lipids (63%), hypertension (50%) and peripheral neuropathy (40%).

The majority of patients (54%) had two or more geriatric syndromes. The most common conditions were pre-frailty (56%), difficulty with one or more functional tasks (47%) and cognitive impairment (47%). At least one fall was reported by a quarter of patients and a similar proportion reported urinary incontinence. Mild depression was reported by a fifth of patients with 18% meeting the criteria for the diagnosis of moderate-to-severe depression.

A lower nadir CD4 count (IRR = 1.16; 95% CI, 1.06-1.26) and increasing number of co-morbidities (IRR = 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03-1.15) were associated with an increased risk of geriatric syndromes.

The authors were concerned that the prevalence of problems such as frailty, falls and incontinence observed in their patients was similar to or higher than that recorded in HIV-negative men living in a community for individuals aged 65 years or older. Geriatric conditions therefore seemed to be occurring earlier in patients with HIV.

‘The association with lower CD4 nadir suggests that earlier antiretroviral treatment initiation may help to prevent aging-related complications, and the association with increasing number of co-morbidities suggests that treatment and prevention of other co-morbid conditions are equally important to the management of HIV in the aging HIV population,” conclude the authors. “Consideration of how to incorporate assessment of geriatric syndromes into HIV care and development of targeted interventions for risk factors of geriatric syndromes is needed as the HIV-infected population continues to age.”

Reference

Greene M et al. Geriatric syndromes in older HIV-infected adults. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 69: 161-67, 2015.

http://www.aidsmap.com/Geriatric-conditions-common-in-middle-aged-and-older-HIV-positive-men/page/2977201/

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Living Longer With HIV And Neuropathy

Today's post from webmd.com (see link below) looks at how living with HIV in 2015 can mean living a long and normal life, although there are problems that can crop up thanks to either the virus or the medication - (neuropathy is one of them). It's pretty much aimed at the success stories with HIV - those on regular treatment, who have achieved an undetectable status. However, many millions across the world do not live in this luxurious position and are denied treatment and exposed to vicious stigmas and our thoughts should always go out to them. Worth a read both for those living with HIV and those who are lucky enough not to.

HIV as You Get Older
By R. Morgan Griffin WebMD Feature Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS

By 2013, almost 30 percent of all people with HIV were age 50 or over. This greying of the HIV population shows how well today’s HIV treatments can work.

HIV makes aging itself more complicated. But plenty of people have had HIV for years, even decades, and are doing well.

"These days, we fully expect that someone with HIV will live a long, healthy life," says Christine A. Wanke, MD, professor of medicine and director of the nutrition and infection unit at Tufts University School of Medicine. "But that means they have to plan ahead and adopt the healthy habits to stay that way, just like anyone without HIV." 

HIV and Aging: 5 Common Challenges

As you get older with HIV, you may face issues including:

1. Other conditions. Just like anybody, getting older means you're more likely to have health problems, and HIV seems to bump up the risk even more. "HIV accelerates the aging process and magnifies its effects," says John G. Bartlett, MD, professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and director of its AIDS service. So HIV may make you more likely to get heart disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, kidney problems, and other conditions.

2. Drug interactions. Since you’re already taking medicines for HIV, additional drugs for other conditions can increase the chance of interactions.

3. Loss of support. Some people become more isolated as they age. That happens more often to people with HIV, who may also be dealing with embarrassment about the condition or strained family relationships. If you're alone and disconnected, you're more likely to get depressed.

4. Changing roles. Like many people without HIV, you may be caring for your aging parents. That can add emotional and financial pressures.

5. Difficulty adjusting. "I talk to people with HIV who say, 'I didn't expect to live to middle age,'" says Brad Hare, MD, director of the HIV/AIDS clinic at San Francisco General Hospital. "'But now I'm middle-aged and I'm probably going to live another 30 years.'" Many people who got HIV long ago didn't plan for a long life, and adjusting can be a challenge. For instance, you might not have saved for a longer life.

7 Steps to Take

1. See an HIV expert. The more your health is complicated by age and other conditions, the more crucial it is to have an expert overseeing your HIV care.

2. Get good routine medical care. Specialty HIV care is not enough. Because your risks of other medical problems are higher, keep on top of your general health, says Hare. Get your annual physicals, keep tabs on your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other tests your doctor recommends.

3. Avoid drug interactions. Make certain every doctor you see knows about every medication and supplement you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and natural products. Doctors may adjust your medicines, dosages, or schedules to prevent interactions.

4. Improve your lifestyle. To enjoy life as you age, stay fit. Exercise regularly, and if you smoke, stop.

5. Eat a healthy diet. Go for lots of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. "Eating a heart-healthy diet makes sense for everyone," says Bartlett. "But because people with HIV have higher risks of heart disease, it makes even more sense for them."

6. Seek support. Having a support system of family and friends is key. Make an effort to stay connected. If close friends or family have died or moved away, work on making new friends. You might also connect through a support group.

7. Get help. Call your local health department to learn about local resources for people with HIV, says Hare. Your local Council on Aging is a good place to start; it can point you toward programs and services that could help. A financial planner may also help you work on savings and expenses.

http://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/features/hiv-and-aging?page=2

Alchemy Seeks

Plants.

They make me think, create, feel. Grow.

The get me going.

both within and without

and in so many ways are my muse.

Inside all of these seemingly indoors kind of bottles,

paper designs,

and handmade wearables,

is a piece of wild.

A piece of stone, water, green, air, cloud, soil, sun, mineral, molten, fire.

Alchemy stirs elements

with emotion

with intention

and imprints upon the cells a kind of open magic.

Alchemy seeks in the corners of the commonplace, and the vastness of the feral lands. Most of all it seeks 

in-between.

Pregnancy 6 Weeks

Chihuahua At 6 Weeks Pregnant

Printables, coloring pages, recipes, crafts, and more from your child's favorite Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. shows..TODAY Parents is the premiere destination for parenting news, advice community. Find the latest parenting trends and tips for your kids and family on TODAY.com..Pill nowadays is the most popular pregnancy termination option. Medical Pill - is a method of in early pregnancy 6-7 weeks .

What Baby Looks Like At 7 Weeks Pregnant

Baby At 6 Weeks Pregnant

TODAY Parents is the premiere destination for parenting news, advice community. Find the latest parenting trends and tips for your kids and family on TODAY.com..Printables, coloring pages, recipes, crafts, and more from your child's favorite Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. shows..Pill nowadays is the most popular pregnancy termination option. Medical Pill - is a method of in early pregnancy 6-7 weeks .

Chronic Pain In The States Vid

Today's 5 minute video is an interview with Dr Paul Christo, who is a well-known pain expert. He addresses the problem of chronic pain in the USA which is pretty much repeated throughout the 1st world. He concentrates on improving people's knowledge of pain and what to do when it becomes a problem. His best advice is to form a relationship with your doctor so that you can both work on the problem together to achieve the best outcomes.

Chronic Pain in America - Dr. Paul Christo on Lifetime Television's The Balancing Act Show
Dr. Paul Christo Published on 6 Jun 2013

Dr. Paul Christo, leading pain expert from The John Hopkins Hospital and host of the radio show Aches and Gains, appears on The Balancing Act to talk about the epidemic of chronic pain in America, and where pain sufferers can go for relief.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apmsF1hhS1c#t=185

Sebivo Tyzeka Hepsera Can Cause Neuropathy

Today's post from drugs.com (see link below) talks about the risks posed by telbivudine, also known as Tyzeka, or Hepsera. It is a drug used to treat chronic Hepatitis B. Many people will be aware that Hepatitis B can be serious for people with HIV but taking telbivudine may also bring neuropathy to the equation and that could make life pretty miserable all round. If you are being treated for Hepatitis B it may be worth checking the drugs you have been prescribed and talking them over with your doctor. 
In December, 2011, the FDA also included neuropathy in its warnings about telbivudine (see here)

Risk of Peripheral Neuropathy with Sebivo (telbivudine)
LONDON, Feb. 14, 2008

The European Medicines Agency’s (EMEA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has recommended that new warnings be included in the product information for Sebivo (telbivudine), from Novartis Europharm Ltd. This warning is intended to inform doctors about the risk of peripheral neuropathy in patients with chronic hepatitis B who are being treated with Sebivo.

Doctors are advised to monitor patients carefully for signs of peripheral neuropathy and to reconsider treatment options if they suspect that a patient is developing peripheral neuropathy.

Sebivo is indicated for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in adult patients with compensated liver disease and evidence of viral replication, persistently elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and histological evidence of active inflammation and/or fibrosis as monotherapy only.

Cases of peripheral neuropathy have been uncommonly reported in patients treated with telbivudine as monotherapy. In a clinical trial investigating the combination therapy of telbivudine 600 mg daily with pegylated interferon alfa-2a 180 ?g once weekly, an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy was observed.

The CHMP, after evaluating the available data, has recommended the inclusion of the following warning in the product information for Sebivo:

Peripheral neuropathy has been uncommonly reported in telbivudine-treated patients. If peripheral neuropathy is suspected, treatment with telbivudine should be reconsidered (see section 4.8).

An increased risk of peripheral neuropathy has been observed when telbivudine and pegylated interferon alfa-2a are co-administered (see section 4.5). Such increased risk cannot be excluded for other interferons alfa (pegylated or standard). Moreover, the benefit of this combination of telbivudine with interferon alfa (pegylated or standard) is not currently established.

For further information, please contact:

Noël Wathion
Head of Unit
Post-Authorisation Evaluation of Medicines for Human Use


7 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4HB,
UK Tel. (44-20) 74 18 84 00 Fax (44-20) 74 18 84 09
E-mail: mail@emea.europa.eu http://www.emea.europa.eu

http://www.drugs.com/news/risk-peripheral-neuropathy-sebivo-telbivudine-7777.html

HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR STOMACH CANCER

Stomach cancer is cancer that occurs in the stomach — the muscular sac located in the upper middle of your abdomen, just below your ribs. Your stomach receives and holds the food you eat and then helps to break down and digest it.

Another term for stomach cancer is gastric cancer. These two terms most often refer to stomach cancer that begins in the mucus-producing cells on the inside lining of the stomach (adenocarcinoma). Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer is uncommon in the United States, and the number of people diagnosed with the disease each year is declining. Stomach cancer is much more common in other areas of the world.

Causes-Doctors aren't sure what causes stomach cancer. There is a strong correlation between a diet high in smoked and salted foods and stomach cancer. As the use of refrigeration for preserving foods has increased around the world, the rates of stomach cancer have declined.

In general, cancer begins when an error (mutation) occurs in a cell's DNA. The mutation causes the cell to grow and divide at a rapid rate and to continue living when a normal cell would die. The accumulating cancerous cells form a tumor that can invade nearby structures. And cancer cells can break off from the tumor to spread throughout the body.

Types of stomach cancer

The cells that form the tumor determine the type of stomach cancer. The type of cells in your stomach cancer helps determine your treatment options. Types of stomach cancer include:

Cancer that begins in the glandular cells (adenocarcinoma). The glandular cells that line the inside of the stomach secrete a protective layer of mucus to shield the lining of the stomach from the acidic digestive juices. Adenocarcinoma accounts for the great majority of all stomach cancers.

Cancer that begins in immune system cells (lymphoma). The walls of the stomach contain a small number of immune system cells that can develop cancer. Lymphoma in the stomach is rare.

Cancer that begins in hormone-producing cells (carcinoid cancer). Hormone-producing cells can develop carcinoid cancer. Carcinoid cancer in the stomach is rare.

Cancer that begins in nervous system tissues. A gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) begins in specific nervous system cells found in your stomach. GIST is a rare form of stomach cancer.

Because the other types of stomach cancer are rare, when people use the term "stomach cancer" they generally are referring to adenocarcinoma.

Symptoms--Signs and symptoms of stomach cancer may include:

·         Fatigue

·         Feeling bloated after eating

·         Feeling full after eating small amounts of food

·         Heartburn that is severe and persistent

·         Indigestion that is severe and unrelenting

·         Nausea that is persistent and unexplained

·         Stomach pain

·         Vomiting that is persistent

·         Weight loss that is unintentional

Risk factor--Factors that increase your risk of stomach cancer include:

·         A diet high in salty and smoked foods

·         A diet low in fruits and vegetables

·         Eating foods contaminated with aflatoxin fungus

·         Family history of stomach cancer

·         Infection with Helicobacter pylori

·         Long-term stomach inflammation

·         Pernicious anemia

·         Smoking

·         Stomach polyps

HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Along with strict diet restriction Homeopathic  remedies effective for all cancer cases. Some of the important remedies are given below

CARCINISIM 1000- Start treatment with this remedy.

ACETIC ACID 30-Acetic acid is best for stomach cancer with violent burning pain in the stomach and chest followed by coldness of the skin and cold perspiration on forehead. Stomach feels as if she has taken a lot of vinegar. Bleeding from bowels causes anemia.

ARSENIC ALB 30-Arsenic alb is best for stomach cancer with burning pain. The patient have great anxiety, fear of death ,restlessness and extreme weakness. Dark blood is present in vomitus and in stool. After eating or drinking anything there is vomiting and diarrhea.Vomiting of blood, bile, green mucus or brown black mixed with blood. The stool is very offensive.Everything swallowed seems to lodge in the esophagus  and does not move down.

There is thirst for small quantities of warm water at requent intervals. The patient get relief from hot application

CONDURANGO 3x-Condurango is best for cancer of stomach accompanied in most cases with painful cracks in the corners of mouth. There is vomiting of food and constant cramping pain behind sternum where food seems to stick. Vomiting of food and indurations in left hypochondrium with constant burning pain. Even a touch on stomach causes pain.

CADMIUM SULPH 30- Cadmium sulph is prescribed when there is violent burning and cutting pain in stomach. There is coffe ground vomiting. Vomiting of mucus, green slime , blood with great weakness and tenderness over the stomach.

GERANIUM MACULATUM  Q-Geranium maculatum is excellent for stomach cancer where there is hemorrhage from stomach due to cancer. Geranium lessens the vomiting in cancer cases.25 drops every hour is given till the bleeding stops.

ORINITHOGALUM Q-Orinithogalum is best for cancer of stomach where there is painful sinking across epigastrium and belching of offensive gases. Another feature is vomiting of coffee groung looking matter sometimes accompanied with blood. Orinithogalum is useful for cancer anywhere in the intestinal tract, especially in the lower part of he stomach before start of the intestines. Give three doses per day for four days and then wait for results before repeating.

HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS 3X- Hydrastis is best for ulcers and cancer of stomach with pulsation in the epigastrium and gastritis.  Weak digestion with  flatulence and distress in the bowels after meals. There is pain in stomach as from a hard-cornered substance.Bitter taste in mouth and the tongue shows the imprint of teeth.

BISMUTHUM 30-Bismuthum  is effective for cancer of stomach with very easy vomiting of clear water or enormous quantities of food which appears to have laid in the stomach for days. Another feature is water is vomited as soon as it reaches the stomach. There is burning and a feeling of load in the stomach.The digestion is slow with fetid eructations. The tongue is coated white with metallic, sweetish taste in mouth.

PHOSPHORUS 1000- Phosphorus is best for stomach cancer with vomiting of coffee ground substance , especially when about to pass into the state of ulceration. There is vomiting of food and water after it gets warm in the stomach.The patient find very difficulty in swallowing. Stomach pain is better from cold drinks and ice.The Phosphorus person have a craving for ice creams, juices and cold drinks.

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Non Medication Ways To Ease Chronic Pain Vid

Today's long (but valuable) post from theprincessinthetower.org (see link below) includes video clips and follows on from other recent posts about non-medication treatment options for living with chronic pain. Let's face it, we know there's no cure for neuropathic pain, there are just medications that for some people, can reduce the severity of the symptoms. There is therefore, nothing wrong with trying to find non-chemical options which may end up achieving the same levels of success. If you have found that natural treatment options have worked for you, please let the blog know and share your experiences with other readers.

Natural Ways to Ease Chronic Pain
Jo Malby The Princess in the Tower (No clear date)

Due to the wide variety of conditions that cause chronic pain, some of the following may not be suitable for everyone but always be proactive in your condition and search for relief because it is out there, even if it just takes the edge off, you could find a better quality of life simply through a course of complimentary medicine. Often it is a matter of trial and error to find the right therapy, or indeed therapist, to help you manage your chronic pain. Always listen to your body, be aware of the possibility of a healing crisis and do not be discouraged if you feel worse before you feel better, as this is often the nature of healing. The following is a list of valuable and proven pain-relieving treatments, which have all had positive benefits for many chronic pain patients:

Acupuncture - Long known for its pain-relieving properties, acupuncture also helps you achieve improved immunity and a greater sense of wellbeing. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is used to stimulate energy flow, or chi, removing blockages in your meridians, which are like rivers of energy; When a blockage of energy occurs, it is like a dam that backs up the flow and in turn leads to illness. Acupuncture unblocks the dam within a person’s energy system by inserting fine, sterile – and usually disposable – needles a few millimetres into your skin at specific points on the body. This causes surprisingly little, if any, discomfort; you may experience a tingling sensation where the needle is inserted or a brief dull ache, but also a general feeling of the energy moving coupled with deep relaxation.

The physician can determine exactly where the energy is blocked and can then use needles, pressure or cauterisation, either directly at the site of the blockage or through some remote acupuncture point, to unblock it - a little like dynorod. Needles are usually left in place for anything between 10 and 30 minutes and may be rotated or tapped to increase or disperse energy. Occasionally, acupressure points may be stimulated by moxibustion, which is the burning a small cone of dried Chinese herb known as moxa – usually artemesia vulgaris latiflora – close to or on the point to warm, nourish and stimulate weak chi in areas that are cold or painful. Acupuncture also releases endorphins into the body, boosting mood and overall well-being. During treatment, very fine needles are placed in acupuncture points to reduce your symptoms and pain, it is also immensely helpful at balancing fatigue.

Massage Therapy - Releasing tension in the body, stimulating blood flow, relaxing tired muscles and helping relieve pain, massage therapy is hugely popular for patients with a diverse range of conditions from Lupus to CFS, Fibromyalgia to arthritis. Therapeutic massage comes in range of treatments from highly skilled therapists, among their more gentle forms of massage are remedial massage, aromatherapy - which combines the healing power of essential oils and soothing movements - and hot stone massage, which swiftly warms the muscles, bringing fast relief and relaxation. Caution must be taken regarding the intensity, because the pain can be aggravated by massage that is too aggressive. Avoid deep tissue work or stronger forms of body treatment, in case they induce a flare-up.

Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga - This is the most gentle form of yoga about, so gentle in fact, at the beginning the exercises will hardly feel like moving at all, as such tiny movements are employed to begin strengthening patients who have perhaps been bedridden for a prolonged period of time. Restorative Yoga is a restful, passive form of yoga designed to open the body deeply but gently. It promotes deep relaxation, induces a feeling of profound peacefulness and allows the body and mind to move into stillness. It also soothes your central nervous system, leaving you feeling refreshed, rested, and calm.

Cushions, bolsters and yoga belts are used to support your body so that it can release without effort. When supported with props, the body relaxes and opens, releasing tension in the muscles and the mind. Done in sequence, a restorative yoga practice will bring your whole body into a relaxed state, and allow your mind to become quiet and reflective. Yoga nidra practices are often integrated into the class to support relaxation and bring balance to your whole system. Proven to reduce pain in fibromyalgia and chronic back pain, it can also help a variety of other chronic pain conditions. Always check the qualifications of your instructor and be sure to start of very slowly; one on one sessions are preferable simply as the instructor can teach completely aware of your needs and pace.

Restorative yoga turns on the healing relaxation response by combining gentle yoga poses with conscious breathing. Below you will learn four restorative yoga poses that may be practiced on their own or in a sequence and can bring great relief from chronic pain.

Each pose is meant to be held for longer than a few breaths; you can stay in a restorative pose for a few minutes or even longer. The stillness allows the body to drop even the deepest layers of tension. Because the poses use props to support your body, the right support in a pose will make it feel effortless, so your body can fully let go, unlike during more strenuous workouts that so often result in painful flare-ups.

Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga Sequence:



Nesting Pose

Nesting pose creates a sense of security and nurturing. It may also be a position you are comfortable sleeping in, making it an excellent posture to practice to help with insomnia or other difficulty sleeping.

Lie on your side, legs bent and drawn in toward your belly. Rest your head on a pillow, and place a pillow or a bolster between your knees. Rest your arms in whatever position feels most comfortable. If available, another bolster or pillow may be placed behind your back for an extra sense of support.

Rest in the natural rhythm of your breath, observing each inhalation and exhalation as it moves through the body. Take comfort in the simplicity and effortlessness of this action.

Supported Bound Angle Pose


This pose relaxes tension in the belly, chest, and shoulders that otherwise can restrict the breath. Lean a bolster on a block or other support (such as telephone books). Sit in front of the bolster with your legs in a diamond shape.

Place a pillow or a rolled blanket under each outer thigh and knee, making sure that the legs are fully supported without a deep stretch or strain in the knees, legs, or hips. Lean back onto the bolster so that you are supported from the lower back to the back of the head. Rest your arms wherever is most comfortable.

Now notice the whole front of your body relax and gently open as you inhale. Follow this sensation and feel the ease in the front of the body as you breathe.

Supported Backbend Pose

Supported backbend is a heart-opening pose that reinforces your desire to embrace life and not let challenges - including pain - separate you from life. This pose also works magic to release chronic tension in the back and shoulders.

Sitting, place a bolster or a stack of pillows or blankets under slightly bent knees. Place one folded pillow or rolled blanket or towel behind you; when you lie back, it should support the upper rib cage, not the lower back. If you need extra support underneath the lower rib cage and lower back, roll a small towel to support the natural curve of the spine. Place a rolled towel or a small blanket to support your head and neck at whatever height is most comfortable.

This pose improves the flow of the breath in the upper chest, rib cage, and belly. Allow yourself to feel this movement as you inhale and exhale. Imagine breathing in and out through your heart center. Visualize the movement of breath from your heart to your lungs as you inhale, and from the lungs back out through the heart center as you exhale.
Supported Forward Bend


This pose relaxes the hips and back, unraveling the stress of daily activities on the spine. Hugging a bolster and resting your head on its support provides a natural sense of security and comfort.

Sit cross-legged on the floor. Lean forward onto the support of a sofa, a chair, or a stack of pillows, blankets, or cushions. If you have a bolster, place one end in your lap and the other end on the sofa, the chair, or the stack of support. Rest your head on whatever support is available. If you are using the bolster, you can hug it in any way that feels comfortable, turning your head to the side. Be sure that whatever support you are using is high enough and sturdy enough to support you, without creating strain in the back or hips. If you feel a strong stretch that is uncomfortable to hold, you need more support.

In this pose, the belly, chest, and back all expand and contract with each breath. Feel the movement of the whole torso as you inhale and exhale. Feel your belly and chest gently press into the support of the bolster or pillows as you inhale. Let the sensation of your breath deepen the sensation of being hugged.

These simple relaxation practices will lead you on the path of ending your suffering. Yoga can teach you how to focus your mind to change your experience of physical pain. It can give you back the sense of safety, control, and courage that you need to move past your experience of chronic pain. For more on 'restorative' or 'therapeutic' yoga visit this blog post.

Soft/Meditative Martial Arts - Soft martial arts, such as Tai Chi and Chi Kung, are really moving meditations. Improving your posture, breathing and awareness, they are gentle and calming practices that have been shown to benefit patients with chronic pain and variable illnesses. Being of Taoist ilk, they hinge on the idea that everything is made up of energy, or chi (qi), and through practising tai chi or chi kung - even if bedridden and simply using chi kung meditative or breathing techniques - you can cultivate and store chi, leading to balance and healing, reducing flare-ups and calming an already over-stressed nervous system.

Tai Chi and Chi Kung move the blood, therefore they generate energy without much movement or stress on the body, so are ideal for individuals who have some health challenges and cannot do a lot of physical activity, such as aerobic exercise, or even walking. Chi Kung allows everyone who desires improvements in their body to do the movements standing up. sitting or even lying down; and the breathing techniques of Chi Kung allow oxygen to flow deep into the cells, tissues and organs of the body.

If you find it too painful to stand, Tai Chi in a Chair is a great book, click here or for Seated Taiji and Qigong click here. Alternatively, Seated Tai Chi for Arthritis DVD has great exercises. To begin to feel the chi or energy follow these gentle exercises for a beginner (see videos below); a more advanced but still wonderfully gentle exercise routine can be found here: 9 Minute Tai Chi Routine.

Pain Relief and recovery Tai Chi exercise one





Pain Relief and recovery Tai Chi exercise two



 
Pain Relief and recovery Tai Chi exercise three
 
http://taichi-europe.com/ Hi my name is John Hine, welcome to Hine Tai Chi. You will find a host of ways to learn Tai Chi and Chi Kung on this site.


The slow and gentle movements of tai chi also open up energy channels, and the rhythmic movements of the muscles, joints, and spine pump energy through the body, thereby flushing out the stagnated chi, replacing it with fresh, oxygenated chi. And Tai Chi can be performed in a sitting position, making it suitable for those in wheelchairs or who's balance is particularly impaired. To find out more about tai chi for people with disabilities, check out this article from Action Online, about tai chi in a chair - As a form of healing exercise, tai chi/chi kung is perfect for those with disabilities, chronic pain and physical limitations. Research has shown that tai chi provides all the benefits of a rigorous workout but, because it is not strenuous, it carries no potentially harmful side effects.

Osteopathy and Chiropractic Treatment - Though the root of the word 'osteopath' means 'bone', osteopaths do not actually treat bones. Rather, they use the bones as levers to improve the condition of other structures in the body like muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and organs. By treating these structures, osteopaths can aid the body’s natural healing ability. Chiropractors, on the other hand, tend to focus on the spine and the alignment of vertebrae as the primary means to relieving pain and tension throughout the body. The spine consists of the vertebrae, which are bone segments that protect the spinal cord, and the individual nerve branches stemming from it. These nerve branches exit between the bones, conveying important messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Because the vertebrae shift and move with everyday activity, they can misalign and interfere with the nerve messages travelling among them. This interference causes problems, and frequently pain, throughout the body.

Watsu Aqua Therapy - Watsu is a combination of massage and Shiatsu in warm, 34 degree water, giving a floating massage. This is my utter all-time favourite therapy. It is astonishing how healing Watsu is and on so many levels, helping physically as well as emotionally. With the therapist assisting your buoyancy (and a couple of floats attached), you float comfortably in a large pool of warm water while your muscles are massaged, your joints rotated & mobilized, meridians (energy pathways) stimulated. This combined stimulation and weightlessness produces and incredibly relaxing experience that many describe as being spiritual in nature. This beautifully relaxing and healing therapy can be used for treating stress, chronic back pain, orthopaedic problems, arthritis, sleep disorders, anxiety, CFS, CRPS/RSD, fibromyalgia and many other chronic pain conditions.

What makes Watsu unique is its ability to take the receiver beyond physical relaxation. It produces such deep relaxation that the mind appears to shut down – leaving silence where there is normally continuous activity and noise. It is only when the body and mind are quiet that you can experience complete release of tension. Another wonderful thing about being in warm water, aside from the obvious therapeutic benefits, is that the painful allodynia of RSD/CRPS is massively reduced, leading to much lower pain levels throughout the treatment, and healing benefits that last long afterwards. Watch this wonderful video for more information:



Watsu Aqua Therapy
Watsu Aqua Therapy, provided by Judy Fox - For more information, visit: http://www.watsuaquatherapy.co.uk Receiving Watsu was Jo McDonaldVideo by Anthony Carpendale - http://www.vimeo.com/antcarpendaleMusic by Ochre


Water Therapies ; Aqua Physiotherapy
There are many different water-based physical therapies that studies (and patients) have shown to be very effective with chronic pain and conditions such as fibromyalgia and CRPS. One interesting therapy is Ai Chi. Ai Chi is a water-based total body strengthening and relaxation progression that bridges East and West philosophies, and integrates mental, physical, and spiritual energy. It combines Tai-Chi and Qi Gong concepts with Watsu techniques, and is performed standing in shoulder-depth warm water using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs, and torso. All thermal aquatic bodywork takes advantage of the waters properties, fostering range of motion while challenging balance (safely) and facilitating core strength and stability. The series of movements in Ai Chi is simple, but effective and becomes meditative when performed repeatedly and coordinated with the breath. The philosophy and breathing in Ai Chi are similar to those of land-based Tai Chi, many of the benefits seen in Tai Chi are applicable to Ai Chi. Many of the Ai Chi benefits come from breathing and exercise, as well as effects related to the relaxed contemplative state.

Jun Konno, ATRIC, creator of Ai Chi, is one of Japan's foremost swimming and fitness consultants and the President of Aqua Dynamics Institute (Japanese chapter of AEA).
Since 1986, he has worked to promote aquatics in Japan and is Chairman of the Executive Committee for Japan's National Aquatic Conference. In the mid-1990s, Konno asked Ruth Sova, MS, president of the Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute and founder of the Aquatic Exercise Association, to help popularize Ai Chi Together with Konno, Sova undertook the project of spreading word about the program globally. They published Ai Chi: Balance, Harmony and Healing in 1999 and developed a certification program.

Read an informative article on Ai Chi here; also the following links talk about the benefits of aqua-based therapies for chronic pain and fibromyalgia:

About Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS)
Potential Climate Benefits for fibromyalgia
Study: Effects of Pool-based Exercise in Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS)
The Effects of Aquatic Therapy on Global Fibromyalgia Symptomatology
Vitamin D, Sunlight and Health
The Natural Healing Properties Of Marine Environments

Myofascal Release (MFR) - This is advanced body work designed to relieve or reduce pain, restore function and mobility. Working on the fascia or soft/connective tissue that has hardened through living with chronic pain. It is astonishingly healing and very gentle (always speak up if anything causes increased discomfort - this applies to all therapies and treatments). MFR brings about permanent change in the body, so results last longer than more conventional forms of massage treatments. Everyone can benefit from this kind of body work as, over the years, fascia can harden in various places around the body, only adding to your already high discomfort. Particularly helpful for fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Always check the credentials of your therapist. Play the following video for a comprehensive description of what MFR is and how it can help heal you, not just physically but emotionally too.



Myofascial Release in Brighton and Hove
Myofascial Release in Brighton and Hove. Steve and Jeanna demonstrate this effective advanced body work explaining how it differs from conventional massage.

Craniosacral Therapy - Craniosacral Therapy works on the spinal fluid and it a variation of osteopathic and chiropractic medicine, where a therapist gently places his/her hands atop your skull and feels for the oscillation frequency - the small degree of movement that the skull bones naturally retain throughout life. This is a subtle motion of the membrane encasing the cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and spinal cord down to the sacrum, the bone at the bottom of the spine. The therapist gently manipulates the bones to bring them back into proper alignment. It is said to improve the fluid movement in the systems throughout the body. By doing this, it can enhance many functions: the provision of nutrients to cells; the removal of toxins and waste products from the tissues; the circulation of immune cells; the delivery of fresh blood to organs and tissues; and the movement of cerebral spinal fluid.

It feels almost like a very gentle massage, but is a potent healing therapy for a wide variety of disorders, including chronic pain, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, learning disabilities, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, vertigo, whiplash injury, TMJ, herniated disc pain and musculoskeletal problems. While surprising and somewhat inexplicable, even many skeptics acknowledge that "sometimes it just works."

More Natural Ways to Ease Your Pain to Follow...
For videos and information on various complimentary therapies, follow theselinks:
Acupuncture
Osteopathy
Sports Massage
Hot Stone Massage
Hot Lava Shells Massage
Aromatherapy Massage
Indian Head Massage
Reflexology
Natural Facial
Thai Massage
Personal Yoga
Deep tissue Massage
Myofascial Release

http://www.theprincessinthetower.org/Natural-Ways-to-Ease-Pain.html

HIV And Its Medications Possible Side Effects

Today's useful post from aidsinfonet.org (see link below) is aimed at people living with the side effects of HIV and its medications, including neuropathy (which is a significant and underestimated consequence of HIV for roughly a third of all positive people).
The post lists the main side effects people living with HIV may have to deal with and provides links to more information on each one. Those who imagine that being HIV+ these days is just a matter of taking one pill a day and living a normal lifespan, may want to think again in light of these potential problems. Those with both HIV and neuropathy already understand that very well.

Side Effects and Their Treatment

July 27, 2013

To see a list of fact sheets in each category, click on the category name.

NOTE: You can see a full list of fact sheet topics on Fact Sheet 1000.

Treatments for Side Effects

550. Side Effects

A discussion of the most common side effects of antiretroviral treatment, with links to other fact sheets for more information. Includes fatigue, anemia, digestive problems, lipodystrophy, peripheral neuropathy, mitochondrial toxicity, and osteoporosis.

[Reviewed August 12, 2012]

551. Fatigue

A description of fatigue among people with HIV, its causes and treatment.

[Reviewed April 10, 2013]

552. Anemia

A description of anemia among people with HIV, its causes and treatment.

[Reviewed June 18, 2013]

553. Body Shape Changes (Lipodystrophy)

A description of lipodystrophy (changes in metabolism and body shape) in people with HIV, its risks, suspected causes and treatment.

[Reviewed November 14, 2012]

554. Diarrhea

A description of diarrhea in people with HIV, its causes and treatment.

[Revised December 31, 2012]

555. Peripheral Neuropathy

A description of peripheral neuropathy in people with HIV, its causes and treatment.

[Revised December 19, 2012]

556. Mitochondrial Toxicity

A description of mitochondrial toxicity in people with HIV, its causes and treatment.

[Reviewed August 13, 2012]

557. Osteoporosis

A discussion of loss of bone mineral density associated with HIV and its treatment, including osteoporosis

[Revised June 2, 2013]

558. Depression and HIV

Depression is common in HIV

[Revised July 29, 2012]

559. Osteonecrosis

Definition and description of osteonecrosis (bone death) in HIV

[Reviewed August 13, 2012]

http://www.aidsinfonet.org/categories/view/17

African Kids And HIV Related Neuropathy

 Today's post from i-base.info (see link below) is a subject that won't go away until the drug companies stop supplying older and more toxic HIV drugs to third world countries. They do this for two reasons: they're under political pressure to reduce costs for poorer communities and they want to get rid of their supplies of older drugs. D4T, for example is notorious for causing neuropathy as a side effect and it is happening to HIV children more frequently than ever. If you are a neuropathy sufferer, you wouldn't wish it on your worst enemy but to think that young children will be suffering for years on end before a 'cure' or effective treatment arrives, is just tragic. It's a moral question and it's about time governments and pharmaceutical companies got their priorities in order.
 

High prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in children taking d4T in rural South Africa
1 August 2012. Polly Clayden, HIV i-Base

Peripheral neuropathy is a well-known side effect of older nucleosides, particularly d4T, which is still used widely in poor settings.

Although it clearly occurs, this phenomenon is less well characterised in children and it is difficult to assess, particularly with limited resources.

In an oral presentation at IAC 2012, Remco Peters from the Anova Health Institute, Khutso Kurhula Project, Tzaneen, South Africa, showed findings from an evaluation of neuropathy in children in the rural Mopani district. This district is a health priority area in South Africa and the institute runs a nurse managed ART programme in 100 public health care facilities with the support of PEPFAR.

The group used two clinical tools to screen for neuropathy – the neuropathy symptom score (NSS) and neuropathy disability screen (NDS). These tools are feasible for resource limited settings and the NDS only uses a reflex hammer, cotton buds, tooth pick and cold water (to access ankle reflex and perception of vibration, pin-prick and temperature).

It was a cross sectional study of 182 children of median age of 9 years (range 5-15 years) and receiving ART for a median of 2 years (range 2 months to 6.4 years). The majority (86%) received d4T-containing regimens.

Forty-nine (27%) children reported neuropathy symptoms and NDS was positive for 25 children (14%); 43 (25%) children fulfilled the study criteria for peripheral neuropathy.

Co-trimoxazole use was negatively associated with neuropathy OR 0.42, (95% CI 0.20 – 0.88, p=0.019) and there were trends for peripheral neuropathy to be associated with older age and longer time on ART but this analysis is still onging.

Dr Peters included quotes from the children: “My feet are burning, I must take off my shoes in class otherwise I can’t concentrate” from one and, “I can’t sleep at night because of the tingling of my feet; I’m tired during the day” from another.

He concluded that neuropathy is common and frequently undiagnosed in this region and that NSS and NDS are useful diagnostic tools in such settings. Most importantly he added: “Talk to the child!”
comment

d4T associated toxicities have been well documented and screening tools that can be used where resources are limited are welcome.

That children’s experience of adverse events reliant on patient reporting often seems to increase as they get older (and gain a vocabulary) is worth noting.

Co-trimoxazole use appears to be a proxy marker in this study for time on ART/exposure to d4T: children taking co-trimoxazole are much shorter on ART (p = less than0.001). There is not likely to be a specific or direct effect of co-trimoxazole use, but the investigators need to finalise the analysis to be sure about this (Remco Peters, personal communication).

Reference:Peters RPH et al. Clinical screening shows high prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in children taking antiretroviral therapy in rural South Africa. 19th International AIDS Conference. 22-27 July 2012, Washington. Oral abstract MOAB0205.

http://i-base.info/htb/19847