CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN • LICENSED ACUPUNCTURIST
CERTIFIED CLINICAL NUTRITIONIST • MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ORIENTAL MEDICINE
DIPLOMATE OF THE AMERICAN CLINICAL BOARD OF NUTRITION
At the Institute of Alternative Medicine, Nutrition and Wellness, Dr. Brian N. Hardy has dedicated his practice to an integrated holistic approach to pain and wellness. Dr. Hardy's approach for the past 15 years, is to offer you multiple solutions your aches, pains and health issues and to focus on what is best for you and to produce the greatest results in the shortest amount of time! When you are injured, in pain, or not feeling well, the results are directly correlated with the knowledge and experience of the health care provider you choose!
Chiropractic Physician, Licensed Acupuncturist, Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Diplomate of the American Clinical ...
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Email or Call Institute of Alternative Medicine: 435-688-8830
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WHAT IS IDD THERAPY
IDD Therapy - Intervertebral Differential Dynamics Therapy® is a proven treatment for the relief of lower back pain. With a significant success rate, thousands of patients have experienced dramatic pain relief and healing.
IDD Therapy is an innovative approach for the relief of lower back syndromes, including:
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Posterior facet syndrome
• Sciatica
• Acute or chronic back pain
IDD Therapy is non-surgical, non-invasive, and typically does not involve pain medications. The treatment is not only safe and painless, but also comfortable and relaxing. The course of therapy includes approximately 20 treatment sessions and is completed in about 35 days. Each procedure is performed with a unique, patent pending physio-therapeutic device and is performed by a certified clinician, specializing in back pain care. The treatment sessions are brief, lasting approximately 30 minutes.
How does IDD Therapy work?
IDD Therapy can isolate each lumbar vertebra (L1, L2, L3, L4 or L5) and distract the vertebrae surrounding an injured disc 5 to 7 millimeters. The 25 to 30 minute treatment provides static, intermittent, and cycling forces on structures that may be causing low back pain.
Negative pressure promotes the diffusion of water, oxygen, and nutrients into the vertebral disc area, thereby re-hydrating the degenerated disc. Repeated pressure differential promotes retraction of a herniated nucleus pulposus (the elastic core of the intervertebral disc).
The IDD Therapy treatment can
reduce pressure on the vertebral joints,
promote retraction of herniated discs,
promote self healing and rehabilitation of damaged discs,
thereby relieving low back pain.
Several sessions are required to achieve optimal results.
Why should you consider IDD Therapy?
IDD Therapy is credible. It is the only treatment that was developed by a team of back specialists including neurosurgeons, orthopedists, physiatrists, osteopaths, chiropractors, neurologists, and physical therapists.
IDD Therapy is proven and effective. The procedure has been studied extensively over the past six years and has been clinically validated. Thousands of patients have been successfully treated with IDD Therapy.
IDD Therapy is non-surgical and non-invasive. The complications from surgery can be severe and may result in debilitating conditions.
IDD Therapy is painless and involves no recovery time.
IDD Therapy is convenient. Treatment sessions last only 25 to 30 minutes. And because the procedure is non-invasive, most IDD Therapy patients can carry-on with normal daily activities. Additionally, patients can expect only minimal absence from work.
IDD Therapy is cost-effective. The cost of treatment is minimal compared to the cost of surgery. And, in most cases, financing is available for those without insurance or with less than comprehensive insurance. Several payment options are available and a monthly payment plan can be a much better financial decision than a 10% or 20% insurance co-payment on back surgery.
WHAT IS IDD THERAPY: THE RELEVANCE OF IDD THERAPY®
Today’s Medical Knowledge:
What is the Best Approach to Chronic Back Pain?
A leading cause of missed work time, low back pain second only to the common cold. Another stunning statistic is that back pain is known to affect 56% to 85% of the U.S. population at some point in their lives. Recognizing this impact, what then is the best approach to treating back pain?
When back pain is caused by disc problems, as about seven million low back cases are estimated to be, then the treatment choices are limited…
Spinal Fusion Surgery- requires surgical removal of the disc, then grafting of the bones together on either side. This is of course a highly invasive (and costly) procedure which has recently presented new problems: the potential for increased pressure on other discs can cause collateral damage to healthy spine segments. As many as 20 percent of fusion recipients need additional spinal surgery in the next 10 years
IDET (Intra-Discal Electrothermoplasty)- requires x–ray guided needle insertion into the affected disc to thread a wire along the inner wall of the annulus. The wire is then heated to destroy small nerve fibers and partially melt the annulus to generate new reinforcing proteins. A 53 patient study on discogenic back pain published in “Spine” (Oct 2002) cited a success rate for IDET (depending on criteria stringency) as high as up to 60% to as low as 23%. (Minimally invasive).
R.D.N (Radiofrequency Discal Nucleoplasty)- even newer than IDET, still somewhat invasive and mostly similar except that coblation nucleoplasty utilizes a radiofrequency probe to vaporize some of the nucleus and in this manner, decompresses the disc and reduces the pressure both on the disc and surrounding nerve roots. (Minimally invasive).
IDD Therapy® (Intervertebral Differential Dynamics)- completely non-invasive, utilizes a sophisticated computer guided patient manipulation device to deliver therapeutic distraction forces to a specifically targeted spinal segment. The mild pumping effect combined with a muscular physical therapy component, creates pressure differential of the intervertebral discs and facet joints, that is, unloading, due to distraction and positioning. A blinded study published in American Journal of Pain Management (April 1997), performed by Shealy and Borgmeyer* on an early spinal system model which eventually led to the IDD Therapy® standard, the SPINA System™, was reported as giving “good” to “excellent” relief in 86% of patients with ruptured intervertebral discs.
Back pain suffers no longer have to experience the pain and agony of “going under the knife”. Now there is a better and proven option: IDD Therapy®.
New studies incorporating the IDD Therapy® protocols are continually being funded in conjunction with this evolving technology.
What is Acupuncture? Acupunclure is an etictive form of health care that has evolved 1110 a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive Illedical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy.
An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body’s Qi and promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity and physical and emotional health. It also can improve overall function and well-being. Ii is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
What is Qi and how does it travel? At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced “chee”), or Life Energy, flows throughout the body. Qi helps to animate the body and protect it from illness, pain and disease. A person’s health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.
Qi circulates through specific pathways called meridians. There are 14 main meridian pathways throughout the body. Each is connected to specific organs and glands. Meridian pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows, it transports life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and people. In the same way, meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland,tissue and muscle.
When Qi flows freely throughout the body, one enjoys good physical, mental and emotional well-being. An obstruction of Qi anywhere in the body is like a dam, backing up the flow in one area and restricting it in others. This blockage can hinder the distribution of the nourishment that the body requires to function optimally.
What can affect Qi? Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack olexercisc, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents or excessive activity can lead to a blockage or imbalance of Qi.
Normally, when this imbalance occurs, the body naturally bounces back, returning to a balanced slate of health and well-being. When the disruption to Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, then illness, pain or disease can set in.
What will my acupuncturist do? During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from 30 to 90 minutes.
Why do they want to feel my pulses? There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.
Why do they want to look at my tongue? The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.
How many treatments will I need? The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.
Treatment frequency depends on a variety of Lictors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality and quantity of your Qi. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance or seasonal “tune ups.”
What should I expect during treatment?
Where the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the “Qi sensation”. All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatnient is working. After treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.
How should I prepare? • Come with any questions you have—we’re here to help you.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
• Don’t eat large meals just before or after your visit.
• Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
• Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
• Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency and type of problems.
Do the needles hurt? The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies. Some people feel a little pain as the needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at all. The needles are tiny, just a little larger than a cat’s whisker or a human hair.
How deep do they go? The depth of the insertion varies. For example, your acupuncturist will use a needling technique that is different in fleshier areas, such as your buttocks. Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging from 1/8” to 1 1/2”.
How safe is acupuncture? Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.
Is acupuncture safe for children? Yes! In sonie instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acliptincturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or tuina.
What type of schooling do acupuncturists get? Today, acupuncturists receive 3 to 4 years ci extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.
What is Cupping? Cupping is a therapy designed to stimulate the flow of blood and Qi within the superficial muscle layers. It is used for sore muscles, tension, neck pain and the common cold. In this therapy, your acupuncturist will place small glass or plastic “cups” over specific areas on your body. A vacuum is created under the cup using heat or suction. They may be moved over an affected area or left in place. You may leave the office looking as though a large octopus gave you a big hug. There is no need for alarm. The slight redness will quickly dissipate.
What is Gwa Sha? Gwa Sha is another technique used to release muscle tension, tightness and constriction. A specialized tool is used to gently scrape or rub the skin over a problem area. Gwa Sha feels a bit like deep massage. This too may leave some slight redness that will quickly dissipate.
What is Tui Na? Tui Na translates as “push grasp.” It is a massage technique that moves Qi in various parts of the body. It is used to relieve muscle pain, tension and inflammation and to heal injuries.
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a treatment that uses an herb called mugwort. It may be burned on the handle of the needle, above the skin, on salt or on a slice of ginger. This is used to “warm” acupuncture points or areas in order to quicken the healing process.
Why did my acupuncturist recommend herbs? Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.
Will my insurance cover acupuncture? Insurance coverage varies from state to state. Contact your
insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered.
I lere are a few questions to ask:
1) Will my plan cover acupuncture?
2) How many visits per calendar year’?
3) Do I need a referral?
4) Do I have a co-pay?
5) Do I have a deductible? If yes, has it been met?
How much does it cost? Rates vary and depend upon what procedures are performed.
It is best to consult with your acupuncturist about costs.
What can acupuncture treat? Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems. Here is a list of a few health concerns that acupuncture has been effective in treating:
Migun Bed Principles Migun uses Oriental medical principles such as moxibution, acupressure, and acupuncture. These methods of treatment are made more effective when combined with Western technology, such as the use of Helium gas and Chiropractic therapy. According to Oriental Medicine, the human body has 365 acupressure points, and among those, Migun is concentrating on the vital acupuncture points around the spine.
Acupuncture started in 10,000-4,000 BC in East Coast of China where the inhabitants lived on fishery. They invented a "flat stone" by scraping the stone on the ground and used it to push aching parts of the body to ease the pain. Some soldiers of war discovered their aches and pains were cured when wounded by an arrow. From such accidental discoveries, the fundamental theory of oriental medicine was developed: that the human body is a "miniature universe" and every parts of the body are interconnected.
Oriental medical practitioners have mapped the human body with acupuncture points and uncovered that the majority of vital healing points were located near the spine. Those points can now be understood as the paths for nervous system. Due to lack of understanding of Oriental Medicine in Western society, it has been difficult for the public to experience this type of treatment. However, Migun has now opened up the world of Oriental Medicine to you in a way that is easy, comfortable, and effective.
There is a saying that a healthy spine will lead to an enjoyable, healthy, and long life. The spine is the pillar of the human body; it is connected to all internal organs, muscles, and nerves. In fact, all brain activities are regulated by the functions of the spine.
The spine is a column of bones called vertebrae. Human beings are composed of 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumber, 5 sacral, and 3-5 coccyx vertebrae. Surrounded by the spine, the spinal cord, nerves, blood vessels, and lymph nodes are linked together.
The functions of spinal cord depend on the condition of the vertebrae. When the mobility of the vertebrae becomes dull, the reflexes become dull. When the spine is distorted, the nerves are compressed, and as a result, all the organs controlled by those nerves will not perform properly. The main form of chiropractic therapy is to correct the distorted vertebrae and normalize the functions of the organs, muscles, tissues, and nerves.
Considering the importance of the spine, it is apparent that maintaining a healthy spine is the key to having a healthy life. Unhealthy and distorted spine may cause one to suffer from disorders such as lumbago, tinnitus, and disc related problems. Maintaining habits of good posture and keeping the back warm are good ways to care for the spine.
Effects of the Migun Migun products incorporate the principles of thermal, massage, and finger pressure treatment.
The continuous use of Migun products will provide numerous health benefits. For example, the heat generated from the heating bulbs and jade caps will relax tension, tightness and soreness of muscles.
Also, regular usage of Migun products will keep the body in shape and help achieve desired fitness goals.
Acupuncture Effect For the past 3000 years, acupuncture has remained the most popular medical practice among Oriental medical practitioners. The purpose of acupuncture is to stimulate the activity of nerve systems by inserting a needle. Migun Thermal treatment mimics the benefits of acupuncture without the discomfort of inserting a needle into your body. The light and heat energy will do the role of a needle. In other words, Migun uses the newest technology to become the evolved form of acupuncture.
Moxibustion Effect Moxibustion is a treatment that applies heat to certain spots on the body by burning moxa on the skin. Moxa is a dried herb, derived from the species mugwort.
Massage Effect The Internal Jade Massage Heads automatically massage muscles and tendons around the spine, relieving tension and helping energy flows. Massaging the spinal area relaxes hardened nerve roots and improves the circulation of energy.
Finger Pressure (Acupressure) Effect The combination of acupressure (finger pressing) effect and heat will boost your energy level.
Jade Effect When looking at various oriental medical books, the ancient oriental people believed that jade heals stressed organs and discharges toxins. They also believed that Jade slows the process of cell aging and has the excellent ability to strengthen the body's natural defenses and healing power.
Jade contains vital elements for the human body, such as minerals, calcium, magnesium and water. In addition, Jade is known as a natural transmitter of far infrared rays. It is because of these important and valuable benefits that Migun uses jade massage caps only on all our products.
Far Infrared Rays Using light bulbs and Jade caps produces more effective heat and far infrared rays than conventional methods. This combination of modern technology and traditional healing treatment will give you thousands of years of wisdom with the cutting-edge scientific breakthrough of today.
For more than 30 years, the far infrared rays have been used to treat patients, and the treatment has been proven successful and effective. Just imagine how the jade massage caps will target the right areas on your back and loosen all the tight muscles. At the same time, the soothing warmth of the Jade massage will make you feel relaxed and comfortable. You will feel healthier, fresher and more alive than ever before!
Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture are complimentary therapeutic modalities that are often used together in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions.
Over the past 5,000 years, Chinese herbology has evolved into an art form
of its own. Ancient herbal information was gathered, compiled, formulated, tested, and handed down from generation to generation. Today, practitioners of Chinese medicine continue to prescribe herbal formulas because they are a powerful therapeutic method.
A practitioner who makes use of herbs is familiar with most of the 1,800 herbs in the Chinese pharmacopia. All of these herbs are classified according to their energetic qualities, functions, and the different organs, meridians, and disharmonies for which they address.
Individual herbs are combined in order to enhance their actions and effects upon the body. When combined, a unique, synergistic formula is created. This combination increases the benefits of a particular formula, and minimizes any harmful side effects.
In order to create the most effective formula, the herbs are used in different quantities and for different purposes. This allows the herbalist to create a formula aimed at addressing individual needs.
Within each formula exists a specific hierarchy of herbs:
1) CHIEF HERB - This herb has the greatest effect upon the principle problem and is the most important ingredient. It is the energetic and therapeutic focus of the entire formula.
2) DEPUTY HERB - These herbs support the Chief herb in the treatment of the principle problem. Deputy herbs usually address secondary signs and symptoms.
3) ASSISTANT HERB - The role of assistant herbs is to support, and reinforce the effects of other herbs. They also help moderate or eliminate any harsh properties of herbs within the formula.
4) ENVOY HERBS -
Envoy herbs harmonize, guide, and focus the action of the entire formula on certain meridians or areas of the body.
Chinese herbal formulas combined this way offer specific synergistic actions and effects upon body and mind.
The art and skill of creating a formula lies within choosing the precise and most effective herbs that target an individuals disharmony. It is important to work with a qualified herbalist who can prescribe the correct formula, monitor progress and adjust it as needed.
Formulas can be prescribed in a number of ways:
raw herbs that are boiled into a tea, liquid extracts, pills or powders.
Chinese herbal medicine can be used to expedite the healing process, and strengthen, support or tonify the body. These formulas have the capacity to address the underlying root cause of various medical conditions, whether acute or chronic. When prescribed and used correctly, chinese herbal formulas rarely cause unwarranted side-effects.
Chinese herbal medicine is a safe, effective and drug-free way to become well and stay healthy, naturally!
Benja Yoga
344S. Main St.
(435) 862-2569
Class Schedule:
Monday..................9:30-11:OO am
Tuesday (at college)...........5:30am
Thursday................9:30-11:00 am
Sunday...................6:0O-7:30 pm
Potluck dinner follow.
Class Fee: Single class $15.00
10 classes pass $110
Please wear comfortable clothing, bring small
blanket or pillow, and water.
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