Showing posts with label inflammation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inflammation. Show all posts

It's A Pain In The Neck! 10 Causes and Treatments




(Guest Post)

It is estimated that neck pain is one of the most frequent complaints, alongside headache, knee pain, and lower back pain. Almost one-third of the adult American population report experiencing neck discomfort on an annual basis. Most people are familiar with the unpleasant feeling of waking up with a stiff neck from time to time. Yet, the discomfort doesn’t materialize itself in soreness only. Neck pain can be debilitating as it interferes with many of our day-to-day activities. It affects driving, working, and even interacting with other people. Worryingly, half of the adults who experience neck issues can develop some form of chronic pain. 

This takes us to one important question, namely: where does neck pain come from? The majority of individuals can pinpoint the cause of their discomfort to a muscular or mobility mishap. Those who frequent gyms are familiar with neck pain when they exercise the muscles in the neck and shoulder areas, for instance. The soreness will disappear once the muscles have healed completely. The second case of neck pain is linked to making a “wrong movement”. It’s typically a sudden move, such as cranking your head violently to one side. The neck area requires rest to recover. The reason why most people can identify these two common causes for neck pain is that they can witness the pain settle in as it happens. To be in control of your pain, you need to understand where it comes from. That’s precisely where it can be helpful to learn more about some of the most common causes of neck pain. 

#1. Mitochondrial myopathy

The mitochondria are the energy factory inside your cells. They produce the energy the cell requires to carry out its functions and survive. Simply put, mitochondria break down glucose into fuel (adenosine triphosphate or ATP) through chemical reactions. Mitochondrial diseases target the production of energy at a cellular level. When the defective mitochondria lead to muscular problems, doctors talk about mitochondrial myopathy. These could come in a variety of shapes and levels. No all myopathies lead to debilitating results. Yet, they all cause weaknesses in the muscle tissues. People with mild defect mitochondria can experience weaknesses in some specific muscle areas, such as the legs, the arms, or the neck. You will also struggle to maintain a fitness routine as myopathies contribute to physical exertion. 

#2. Curved spine

Scoliosis is one of the most common conditions that tend to develop among children and growing teenagers. However, it can also be found in adults as the result of long-term degenerative conditions. To put it simply, there is more than one type of scoliosis. It occurs when a portion of the spine curves sideways. Individuals can develop scoliosis at different levels along the spine; it is important to learn more about the condition. When scoliosis is prominent, you can spot uneven shoulders, waist, and hips with a naked eye. However, individuals who develop only mild cases may not be able to see any physical manifestation of scoliosis. This can happen because your body tries to compensate for the spinal curve. As a result, you can experience back or neck pain even though the curvature isn’t apparent in the mirror. A professional can help diagnose and treat the condition. 

#3. Chronic stress

Whether it’s the pressure at work or being stuck in a complex situation in your day-to-day life, long-lasting stress has physical consequences. Chronic stress takes its toll on the body and can lead to severe muscle tension and rigidity. Unfortunately, chronic stress is a permanent sensation that can last for several days, weeks, or even months. This makes it hard in the long-term to realize that you are suffering from stress. Tenses muscle neck can’t relax, which leads to sharp pain and limited mobility. There isn’t much of a solution for it, unfortunately. Muscle tensions will remain a problem for as long as you fail to acknowledge the underlying mental health issues. 

#4. Sleeping posture

Waking up with a sore neck is wrongly blamed on a bad mattress. In reality, it’s not uncommon for individuals to buy high-quality bedding solutions and still experience neck pain in the morning. The issue has a lot to do with the way you sleep. Indeed there are different sleeping postures, which need specific pillow shapes and support. Sleeping with the wrong pillow for your posture could contribute to pain and stiffness. So it’s important to select the right support whether you are a back, side, or stomach sleeper. 

#5. Screen height

If you’ve seized the opportunity to work from home during the pandemic, you might want to reconsider your home office arrangement. Indeed, a lot of Americans have created an improvised workstation at home, working from the bed or the sofa. It’s important to keep the screen at eye level to avoid unnecessary neck pain. You can’t safely work on a screen for long working hours with your neck bent forward. Unfortunately, when you are focused on work, you may not notice that the position is uncomfortable. 

#6. Inflammation

Nobody likes to talk about joint pain as the inflammatory condition tends to be associated with old age. However, lack of hydration and an unhealthy diet can contribute to the early onset of joint pain. Thankfully, more often than not, the condition is reversible and manageable in its early stages with simple lifestyle changes. As the neck is made up of vertebrae separated by discs, the movements are controlled by a system of muscles and tendons that surround the spine. The joints, aka the connective tissues between the muscle and the spine, are the first to show signs of tear and wear if your diet lacks antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and water. 

#7. Disc degeneration 

The disks between the vertebrae act as shock absorbers. As we age, the discs can become thinner and more fragile as part of a natural degenerative process. While the process is not a fatality, it is a frequent occurrence. Minor injuries are some of the most common causes of degeneration. Over time, injuries contribute to the wear and tear of discs, which lose their shock-absorbing properties. Treatment varies, ranging from medication, non-surgical treatments, and even operations depending on the situation. 

#8. Uncoordinated vocal cords

Doctors talk about laryngeal muscle tension disorders to describe a situation in which a patient experiences vocal problems and sometimes combined with breathing problems. Indeed, speaking requires the coordination of many muscles inside your neck. When these muscles lose coordination or contract inappropriately, this can lead to a variety of consequences. It can affect your voice, causing a hoarse sound as you speak. In extreme cases, a patient can also lose their voice completely. As the problem is muscular, it also leads to neck pain and neck fatigue. 

#9. Swollen thyroid glands

The thyroid glands can become painful after you’ve suffered an infection. However, the reaction can occur several weeks after the infection, which can make it tricky for individuals to self-diagnose. Typically, you will notice some swelling in the area above where your collar bones meet. However, in some cases, the swelling isn’t apparent so you can’t locate the source of the pain. 

#10. Food poisoning

Every year, 48 million American's experience food poisoning. More often than not, people recover without medical treatment. Typically, you would experience nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting. However, extreme cases can also cause neck stiffness and respiratory distress. If you experience these symptoms, you need to seek medical assistance immediately. 

Your neck pain can be triggered from a variety of causes. Since it is a common complaint, it's important to uncover the root cause. Acting rapidly can ensure the issue is corrected early on to prevent chronic pain from developing. 






Inflammation: Tame This Silent Killer With Food-Based Solutions


The bane of health, chronic inflammation is at the root of most disease. Cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cardiovascular troubles and periodontal issues are all influenced by an overactive inflammatory response. Fortunately, we have a powerful ally against inflammation residing in our kitchen. Through select foods and dietary adjustments, we can subdue this unruly beast and create a solid foundation for a healthy future.

The primary culprit—poor food choices

Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, helping to heal damage throughout the system. And yet, this mechanism can lead to serious illness when left unchecked. Dietary choices are the number one trigger for an exaggerated inflammatory reaction - especially sugary, high-glycemic and processed carbohydrates. Poor-quality fats like those found in meat and dairy, as well as trans fats in refined vegetable oils, are also problematic. In the scholarly paper "Control of Systemic Inflammation and Chronic Diseases - The Use of Turmeric and Curcuminoids," researcher Stig Bengmark observes:

Fortify Yourself Against Cancer, Inflammation, Depression and More With This One Aromatic Flower


A fierce champion of natural health, the rose has been recognized throughout history for its curative value. And now modern science validates many of the health giving features. A study published in the Journal of Food Science revealed that a hot infusion of air dried rose petals contained notable levels of phenols and anthocyanins along with gallic acid. Known not only for its antioxidant characteristics, gallic acid also has strong antiviral and antifungal properties. Furthermore, the acid destroys cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.

Cherries a Superfood? Research Confirms This Well-Known Fruit Tackles Cancer, Insomnia, High Blood Pressure and More


For those of you who love cherries, this ruby sweet fruit is much more than a tasty summer treat. Shown to combat cancer, improve sleep, balance blood pressure and ease gout, you really cannot lose. Compounds found within cherries also relieve pain as well as aspirin. Possessing potent anti-inflammatory properties, these delicious gems are an excellent way to ward off disease. Rich in vitamins and minerals as well as antioxidants, cherries are a powerhouse of nutrition and should be enjoyed often.

Relish the bounty of the season along with improved health

With the cherry season upon us, now is a great time for basking in all the pleasurable, health promoting benefits of the fruit. Here are a few examples of how cherries can enhance your well-being:

Erase a decade off your face, dodge cancer and conquer inflammation with these vitamin C-rich foods

(Natural News) With the cold and flu season in full swing, fortification with vitamin C is one of the most effective and potent methods for dodging illness. And yet, this well-known nutrient is often overlooked as an outstanding anti-aging, cancer-destroying, disease-busting and mood-boosting addition to the diet. To encourage health throughout the winter and beyond, consuming foods which naturally supply high levels of vitamin C is a smart move.

Glow with health

Exceptional sources of vitamin C include hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), which is enjoyed as a tart tea, and rosehips (Rosa canina), which lends a floral flavor to infusions. And then there are two fruits that contain the highest levels of vitamin C documented - amla and camu camu. Amla is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and "reported to possess radiomodulatory, chemomodulatory, chemopreventive effects, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and immunomodulatory activities," notes a study at Muller Medical College in Kankanady, India.

What You Don’t Know About Heavy Metals and Inflammation May be Silently Killing You


With so much press about the dangers of inflammation, many are already aware of its connection with a range of serious illness. And yet, the fact that heavy metal toxicity is at the root of inflammation oftentimes slips by unnoticed. The unfortunate truth of the matter is this: Until we address toxic metals within the body, methods to tame inflammation will simply be a stopgap measure.

15 Easy Things You Can Do To Fight Inflammation & Boost Your Metabolism


(MindBodyGreen) Can you relate to any of the following? I follow all the rules, but I still can't lose the weight. I'm just getting old and my metabolism is slow. It's genetic. There's nothing I can do.
Regular readers of MindBodyGreen know that chronic inflammation has been linked to a host of ailments — from depression and weight gain to cancer — but what can we actually do about it?

A 30-Day Reset To Reduce Inflammation & Balance Your Hormones




By Dr. Kellyann Petrucci

(MindBodyGreen) I call myself the "last chance" doctor because many of my patients are nearly out of hope by the time they come to my office. Merris, who described herself as a prisoner in her own home, was one of them.

Merris has celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that affects the intestines. When people with celiac disease eat any food containing gluten, their immune system attacks the villi, tiny structures in the intestines. The result: diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, and absolute misery.

Why everyone should be eating more hempseed


A group of centenarians in a Chinese village seem to have stumbled upon a veritable fountain of youth in the form of a well-known seed. Revered for their life expectancy of 100+ years, inhabitants of Bama Yao live in one of the few longevity hotspots of the world. Sharing similar characteristics with other long-lived people, residents of Bama Yao thrive on a nutrient-rich diet and enjoy a pristine environment. The secret to their exceptional life span, however, appears to be their high intake of hempseed.

Not surprisingly, hempseed is a nutritional powerhouse that is rich in many disease-fighting nutrients. Contained within this small seed are a range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and healthy fats -- including calcium, potassium, magnesium, sulfur and iron, as well as vitamins A, B, C, E and D. Brimming with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, hempseed is one of the best foods we can eat for a sharp mind and robust cardiovascular health. Since hempseed also provides a noteworthy level of phytol (a potent antioxidant), consuming the seed on a regular basis can help reduce the chance of developing cancer. Hempseed also tames inflammation.

Honeysuckle: A sweet-scented remedy that calms inflammation, infection and contagious illness




If you have a honeysuckle plant flourishing nearby, a surprising medicinal plant is right at your fingertips. One of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, this fragrant beauty is much more than just an ornamental vine -- the flowers exhibit antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties as well.

The top 6 inflammatory foods + how to detox from them




(MindBodyGreen) There are a multitude of diets to choose from, or exercise programs that run the body ragged. The simple truth is that our bodies weren't meant to eat Lean Cuisine meals or to be engaged in hours and hours of intensive exercise. If a person examines the evolution of our body from the caveman days, they would see that the body thrives off of whole foods, clean meats and exercise that involves lots of walking.

Mighty healing in a tiny package—unleash the power of mustard seed for cancer, inflammation and more

A familiar staple in Indian food, mustard seed is much more than a peppery-tasting spice. It also addresses a number of health ailments, including: cancer, asthma, weight gain and hair issues -- as well as variety of other concerns. Ingesting the seed is one method for reaping the benefits, taking a detoxifying bath with mustard powder is another. For inflammatory conditions, applying mustard oil topically helps to relieve arthritis and skin complaints. However you choose to employ this unassuming seed, be assured that a powerful remedy is right at your fingertips.

Is mold making you sick?

Suffering from brain fog, chronic fatigue or insomnia? How about depression, migraines or inflammation? If so, you may have a problem with an internal mold infection.

Associated with an astounding number of health issues, mold toxicity is a common -- although often hidden -- source of declining health. Thriving in humid climates, or wherever water damage is present, the fungus releases spores into the environment, which infiltrate the air, along with carpet and furniture, clothing, mattresses and bedding. People living or working within these spaces inhale the spores, which then reproduce in the body and (for the more harmful varieties) subsequently release mycotoxins. Mold and mycotoxins can be ingested through contaminated food as well. You can learn more about this hazard here.

White is the new green - Discover the exceptional health advantages of white tea for cancer, inflammation and more

Green tea has received plenty of positive press over the years - and rightly so. Yet, its younger cousin is garnering significant attention as a superior brew in scientific circles. With the highest antioxidant rating of any tea - and the lowest level of fluoride - white tea offers noteworthy protection against cancer, inflammation, high cholesterol and dental plaque. It's also antifungal, antibacterial and fortifies against the ravages of aging.

Oxidation and other trivia

According to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, "the tea leaf stays so close to its natural state, the benefit of white tea is that it contains more polyphenols, the powerful anti-oxidant that fights and kills cancer-causing cells, than any other type of tea."

What you don't know about heavy metals and inflammation may be silently killing you

With so much press about the dangers of inflammation, many are already aware of its connection with a range of serious illness. And yet, the fact that heavy metal toxicity is at the root of inflammation oftentimes slips by unnoticed. The unfortunate truth of the matter is this: Until we address toxic metals within the body, methods to tame inflammation will simply be a stopgap measure.

Inflaming cellular pathways

Lyn Hanshew, M.D., believes that inflammation indicates heavy metal toxicity, which leads to the development of diseases such as arteriosclerosis, diabetes, asthma, hypertension, arthritis, colitis and hepatitis, as well as a slew of other degenerative diseases. When the toxic load of heavy metals turns critical, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid conversion pathways in cellular membranes become imbalanced, triggering a cascade of inflammation.

Create radiant health with the medicinal advantages of papaya


Named the "Fruit of the Angels" by Christopher Columbus, papaya is enjoyed around the world as a sweet tropical delight. Every part of the papaya tree and its fruit lend great therapeutic value in maintaining health and correcting bodily imbalances. Indigenous people have known of the health promoting benefits of papaya for centuries, and now the knowledge has entered into the spotlight of modern medicine.

Papaya is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The ripe fruit provides a bounty of vitamin C, E, and A along with folate and potassium. The shining star of papaya nutrition is papain, a formidable enzyme that helps digest protein and reduce inflammation. Papain is 3 times more abundant in green papaya than fully ripened fruit. Just make sure you source organic varieties. Continue »