Very thorough, informative, caring, and helpful!
- Ashley .
High quality service, friendly and professional
I've been going to Arc of Life Spinal Care for 4 months now and truly believe it has changed my everyday life! My body is riddled with auto immune diseases and arthritis I was barely functioning, everyday was a huge struggle! However, with the professional care of Dr's. Drew and Kanema Clark I'm functioning so much better. I've been able to actually get 8 hours of sleep at night, (which is a huge plus, as I was only getting approximately 2-3 hours prior), I'm able to go from a sit to stand position, walk, read and concentrate much easier as well as my my pain level has gone down significantly. Finding Arc of Life has been a Godsent to me physically, mentally and spiritually. I highly recommend everyone call and make an appointment to attend a seminar educating yourselves on how important it is for your body and your children's bodies to be aligned properly to prevent sickness and disease to get in. The office is professional, compassionate, friendly and the highest quality of care is provided.
My goal with the care of Dr's Drew and Kanema is to be able to give my brain, nervous system and body a better chance to heal and function naturally with a properly aligned spine and eventually be able to eliminate the many toxic medications I've been taking to control my diseases. Thank you Dr's. Drew and Kanema Clark for educating me on this course of care. I truly believe my health is improving and I'm seeing light at the end of the tunnel that I've been trapped in. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😊
- Dawn .
Very professional and friendly.
- Erma .
All around AWESOME Place to be!
Love and respect all the employees/owners of the chiropractor's office! They treat you so well...are so professional and you can tell they care about every one of their patients! I am so very happy that we found them!
- Melissa .
I felt at ease the moment I got there, I was quite apprehensive at first because of the drive from Naples.
Your staff where amazing and very helpful. My exam and screening were done with precision.
Everything was explained to me clearly to explain the process so that I new ahead what was involved.
The the X-ray tech did a phenomenal job and she is a gifted employee.
- tom .
They helped my back and neck pain a lot. Thanks! 😊
- Jill R
Way above my expectations
I've been to chiropractors before and because of my early childhood injury none of the chiropractors could do anything for me. But this new family that I found at Arc Of Life each and everyone treats me personally and with dignity and I just want to say thank God that we found each other.
- Joanne .
Arc of Life is a one of a kind office. They are like family there. Everyone remembers your name and they always work with your schedule and make sure you have a good experience. I am so thankful for their help in my health and for encouraging me everyday!
- Kimberly .
- J. Lindsey .
Dedicated masters of their feild!
Dedicated masters of their feild, Drs. Drew & Kanema Clark are two truly amazing people. They are effective, professional, and truly dedicated to all of their patients. It is such an added bonus that they are two honest professional individuals with beautiful hearts. I hope they stay in practice forever because you will for sure find me there!
- Jonah .
Professional, welcoming, knowledgeable, sincere.
- Milan .
Fabulous Presentation on how to become healthy
Dr Drew Clark gives a fabulous review of the reasons current medicine is increasing in cost while America gets more unhealthy. He discusses the roots causes and how to address them so that we aren't "surprised" in in life by health problems that might have been avoidable with the proper health care approach. This is the right place for people who want to proactively remain truly healthy throughout their lives.
- Gregory .
Family Friendly Spinal Care
For my first visit, I came alone with my 2 children under 3 years old. The staff was understanding of their missed nap behavior and their needs, and was also helpful in keeping an eye on them while I was being taken care of. It is rare that such a need would exist, as I normally wouldn't attempt such a trip alone, but I needed the appointment and had no other options that day.
Beside their openness to my kids, they were also very kind in general, and had a refreshingly happy disposition. I don't see that much in healthcare nowadays, and it was very welcoming.
They then thoroughly explained their practice, the findings of my scan, and offered me the best solution for my issues.
It was specific, direct, and purposeful. I look forward to correcting my back and improving my quality of life, here at Arc of Life! A big thank you to all of those involved!
- Jordan .
Very informative and caring professionals
I learned so much about my spine and am blessed by this Godly couple and their business. I had a free evaluation and appreciate the time spent with me and the explanation on how their services can help me.
- Linda .
Very knowledgable, friendly and upbeat
This is the most comfortable I have fealt with a doctors visit. The entire staff totally believes in what they are doing and they explain everything very well. Thier methods make sense and I can feel the difference.
- Mike .
good service very professional office and treatment
Drs Kanema and Drew Clark are excellent clinicians and run a relaxing office setting with efficient staff assisting. Always a pleasure to see them
- Deborah J .
ARC has been a blessing! They have did amazing job with getting my spine to finally line up and balance my weight to prevent injury.
Very polite, professional and knowledgeable on so much!!
Very Happy with my care!!!
- Laurie .
Apart of a family, physicians that really care.
Today I had my first meeting with this wonderful facility Dr.Kamena, Dr. Drew and Stephanie and made me feel at home.I know that I will be a better person because of these caring people. May God bless your outreach.
- Joanne .
scared to go to a chiropractor
My daughter talked me into going! I had carpal tunnel of my right hand and it was completely numb I could hardly hold a pen. I was diagnosed by a neurologist and he recommended surgery. I was afraid to see a chiropractor as I also have osteoporosis and was afraid he would break me....After 2 gentle adjustment the nerve in my neck to ran to my had wasn't pinched and I regained feeling in my hand!
Coincidentally I also had post nasal drip and a nagging cough for years that the many ENT Drs. just put me on allergy medicine..After Dr. Clark adjusted my neck my sinuses drained and I dont cough anymore!!!
It is a relief to have these symptoms gone and I feel so much better.
- Melody .
Caring and professional. The healing room is a restful and restorative bonus. I actually look forward to getting a treatment. I also like the computerized images that allow me to see progress. I have improved with only a few visits.
- Melody .
Caring service; had time to spend with the patient.
I benefitted from today's visit. Expect to feel healthier as the day goes on.
- Lynne .
Wonderful Dra. Kanema Clark& Drew-Montez
The Drs. Kanema, Clark, Drew-Montez and staff are so professional, truthful, polite, caring, kind.
- Ana Maria .
Upper cervical care Chiropractic Blessing from The Lord
I can not begin to say enough about Dr. Drew and Dr. Kadema - two of the most beautiful people I've met in my life. The love, kindness, professionalism and care for others is truly a Blessings. My body has changed so much since starting treatment it is amazing...I feel body parts that were starting to feel numbness, I no longer have the sciatica pain nor do I throw my back out like I used to! It does take a while for the adjustments to "stick" but well worth it after a few months when they do! This is definitely more than just a chiropractor office, this is extended family - such warm loving caring Dr.'s.
Initially I went to them when I experienced a dizzy spell - I have not had another episode of dizziness - also, I messed up a knee the year before and the side effect of treatment, I no longer have issues with my knee and I an see my knee cap (haven't seen it in a few years....I've lost weight without doing anything - proof that when the blood is in full communication with your body parts and organs, it is a "natural" healing.
May God continue to Bless these two as they continue their calling in life.
- Carmen .
Arc of Life provides a very comprehensive assessment and treatment plan to maximize healing. Having suffered from jugular vein damage, brain stem damage and significant atlas misalignment for over a decade due to a serious injury, this form of chiropractic care is my primary treatment modality. Dr Drew and Dr. Kanema Clark constantly assess and adjust my treatment plan to provide me with the best possible outcome. I am very fortunate that I found them and can benefit from their knowledge, professional application of their skills and compassionate approach to people in need.
- Dave .
I was very satisfied with my first visit.
Everything was explained to me.
- Rita c .
Looking forward to better health!
What a great experience. The Doctors are very informative and comforting. They have a great balance in their office of being professional and yet down to earth. I am glad to know they are faith inspired!
- Susan .
Wished it wasn't so late at night. It was ok & I really hope it works & will help other problems I have. I will recommend to others if I see results in myself.
- Linda .
Took care of me
Knowing time was short for me, they quickly organized my assessment and treatment and had me out of the office with time to spare.
I'm a person who wants things to happen in a hurry and so I get frustrated by the slowness of my healing process (my body has been beaten and battered over the years.) It was good to see I am slowly making progress and this has been a good investment in my health.
- Pauline .
Always great friendly service with a very professional doctor who gives a better quality of life .
I always feel so much better after my appointment. My body is reset.
I would highly recommend Dr. Clark and his staff.
- Nancy R
Very knowledgable and caring
My first treatment visit is upcoming. Looking forward to receive their help and guidance to improve my quality of life
- Carol .
Amazing caring staff
I love the fact that they truly care about your health and motivate you in the right direction to continue on after care.
- Franni P
ARC of life Spinal Care
I have been going to ARC since May of 2015.
I was told by surgeons that I needed both back and neck surgery, because of all the ruptured discs.
I went to Ladies Night with a Neighbor and since I had researched NUCCA chiropractic prior I knew I wanted to try this type of Chiropractic since for my other ailment so many people had awesome lunch with it.
In Minnesota where I use to live there wasn't one anywhere near me.
I started with my legs being altered by 49 lbs and now my body is level and I continue to go to make sure I am still in complete alignment to continue to heal by staying in alignment
- Laurie .
- J. .
I have been having chiropractic adjustments for 2 years. I have been going to Arc of Life for 2 1/2 months. The difference with Arc of Life is amazing. They are so warm and caring. I love how they are so community oriented and bring faith and love into the treatments. I love the healing room-- I feel so much better mentally when I leave. My issues are long standing so my healing won't be overnight but I know I am in good hands.
- Michelle .
My recent appointment
Today was my first adjustment and it was a terrific experience. Dr Kanema was very thorough going over the X-rays and the costs involved with the treatment. I was very satisfied with the payment options provided. And Dr Drew was great at explaining the process of all he did from beginning to end. I thank God for arranging our meeting so that I can get better healthcare for the rest of my life.
- Victor .
Great time spent discussing my concerns.
- Joanna .
top notch personal and professional service
I have been a client for over 2 years and am satisfied with my improvements in my health. The scans in the office show it and an absence of illness in my life is proof that chiropractic works for me.
- Martin .
integrity .I feel I can trust them . very patient ..
I am grateful that I was not rushed those my appointment They took the time and became concerned . The fact JESUS in not only in their hearts yet they reveal HIM 2 be present in the office !!
Thank u both....
- Karen .
Wish I knew a few years ago that this service was available. They were very thorough and detailed. I haven't had an adjustment yet but I do have high hopes this will improve my daily life.
- Janice .
Results Are Proof
I am surprised to have such good results in such a short period of time and treatment. As everyone told me and I now totally believe, "This practice is like no other practice you've been to!" All in a good way.
- Kathryn .
Gentle caring but so effective
The morning after my first adjustment my sinuses drained I didn't expect this but was amazed at the effect!
- Melody .
Professional and educational
Dr. Clark is not only knowledgeable but has passion for what he does. He genuinely cares about his patients and understands there need for care. I have not only been adjusted, but also educated on how to take care of myself physically and internally and that is not something all chiropractors provide.
- Francheska .
Professional, friendly, and Godly
I was very impressed with Arc of Life Family Spinal Care. From the moment I walked in, I felt very welcomed. Everyone is very friendly, and the office is very clean. I enjoyed that Dr. Kanema gave me information to read while I was waiting so that I had a better understanding of what we would be talking about. She was very friendly, and I felt comfortable through out my appointment. I hope to be able to work with them on being a better me!
- Alexandra .
I appreciated the additional explanation when I asked questions.
- Lynne .
Blessings from above
What a wonderful, educational experience! Drs. Drew-Montez & Kanema Clark have been Blessed with a talent unlike any other. They use their Blessings to help others in a beautiful, warm environment.
Integrity, honest, caring individuals work and practice here. If you have ever had a "bad" experience in your life with any Dr. In your journey, these two will make you forget that ever happened. Kind, loving, caring people who speak from their heart to help others. I would highly recommend you try this office. It might just change your life!
May God continue to Bless them in what they do!!
- Carmen .
There thoroughness during visit is great and explained as they go.
- Franni P
This is the most welcoming and insightful Dr office I have ever been to
The entire staff is just wonderful. You are educated from the get go so you know exactly what is going in. Dr Drew is wonderful. Always has a big smile and welcoming heart. Every single person in this office is literally a gift from above!
- Karolynn .
Outstanding Service and Knowledge
As always, Dr Drew did a professional re asseement since last visit, explained the readings, and got me in and out.
As we're not being treated for any special symptom.. and never are with the holistic treatment.. can't say I came in"bad" and went out "better" due to pain, etc.
Just great body maintenance.
- Joseph .
My health has improved tremendously. Thanks for the ❤
- Papa J .
Excellent communication, educational, wonderful doctors and staff
I have been suffering with crippling headaches for years. I was lucky enough to find these fantastic and caring doctors at the 4th of July celebration in Bonita. I made my appointment and was amazed at how warm and welcoming everyone in this office is. The level of care FAR surpasses any I have ever received from any physician in my life. They not only strive to make you pain free but they educate you all along the way so you are informed on what the causes and solutions are. Highly recommend Arc of Life!
- Karolynn .
We are newly part of the Arc of Life family and think this office is amazing
- Danielle .
warm, comfortable, professional
All of the above is frosting on the cake and I love being in their extremely
positive atmosphere but what is imperative is that the treatment is effective!!!!! Dr. Drew is the whole package, he knows his stuff and has the best possible personality. I appreciate his authenticity.
- Ruth Ann .
High quality and personal service
My visit to the Arc of Life Center was very welcoming. I was greeted by my doctor and I felt very comfortable because of the time Dr. Clark took to explain each procedure to me in an unhurried manner. I'm looking forward to my next visit.
- Yvette S
Complete relief is possible. only treating upper cervical allows your body to heal from head to toe. No more pain killers or back supports. You cannot give a review from just visiting or watching video. For complete pain and symptom recovery please seek out an upper cervical DR. Near you. I have been a patient for 5 months and will continue to tell everyone about this experience.
- Joe .
An exceptional experience
Visiting the Arc of Life Family Spinal Care was indeed an experience with a difference. I was thrilled to receive the kind of treatment that I was not at all expecting.
The initial session was very informative and educational, the treatment was different, and the first line contact with the Clinic epitomized all of the expectations of Customer Care. I saw and felt it at work by the caring staff.
The Clinic itself was attractively decorated with a view to giving recognition to the culture of its Irish Clientelle. It was awesome I am sure that all visitors to this Clinic would admit to a comfortable and relaxed environment.
- Nola .
Always look forward to my appointments!
Dr. Clark and his staff are top drawer. Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care has given me my life back. We are beyond grateful!
I wish everyone would make an appointment for their evaluation.
My rating is 5 star X infinity!
- Ruth Ann .
Always treated with kindness and respect and made welcome when arrive. Just the nicest warm reception EVER received in doctors office
- Kathy .
My husband and I are slowly recovering from 12 years of stress that has affected our health. Arc of Life is playing an important part in our recovery. Dr. Clark's treatments, care and attention are working for us.
- Pauline .
We love our experience there. It's amazing how one area can make everything better!
- Heather .
Arc of Life
Dr Clark and his staff are so friendly and make you feel right at home. Dr. Clark takes the time to describe the procedures and what is going on with your body. Anyone with pain or illness should try Chiropractic....it really does work!
- Marlene .
Dr. Drew found my neck to be aligned but my legs were not. He adjusted my hips that were twisted and I feel back in sink. I feel he is an excellent Doctor.
- Nancy .
Love this place!!
Dr.Drew Clark and Dr.Kaneema Clark are the best two doctor's I've ever had. When you talk about physician's most are ok at treating a symptom. Both Dr.Drew Clark and Dr. Kaneema Clark are interested in treating people.
- Lori .
It's always a pleasure coming to Arcs of Life. Both doctors and Daniel at the front desk are excellent personable people. They always listen to my concerns and answer all my questions.
- Nikki Leigh .
My visits are always positive. The atmosphere is friendly, one of concern, professional and informative.I like the fact that the doctor takes his time to evaluate me. He doesn't rush the process. I am doing well. I have increased mobility in my neck and decreased back pain. I am pleased with my progress and very grateful to have been introduced to Arc of Life. THANK YOU!!!
- Madeline .
Always a great visit and always feel better when I leave.
- Barbara .
Both doctors are wonderful and have helped me tremendously. Great people who truly care about the patient and in creating an environment that is friendly, non-pretentious, and conducive to therapeutic healing. Daniel is a great new addition to the staff. I am so happy that Arc of Life is one of my personal tools benefiting and support my overall health, and my experience with this business has most certainly changed my life for the better.
- Thomas .
always impressed with the professional and personal way that I am treated in the office by everyone and obviously I feel better when I leave so its a win win!
- deborah .
I Love Being in Alignment
Dr Drew has such a soft touch that makes all the difference. The office is beautiful and comfortable. It is a pleasure to visit the office. I felt better after my first adjustment! :)
- Quenby .
I look forward to each visit and I am more than grateful for UCCC!
From the moment a patient walks thru the door, it is a positive, uplifting experience. Daniel is the perfect person on the front desk, cheerful, competent, & professional. He is a joy and a blessing to the office.
Dr. Clark, perfection!!! Of course he treats many of the course of the day but some how manages to make us each feel we are important. The difference UCCC has made for me can not be measured. It has saved my life!
- Ruth Ann .


Epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive treatment involving the injection of a steroid into the epidural space outside the spine. This reduces swelling of inflamed and irritated/pinched spinal nerves that reach legs, arms, or other parts of the body in order to relieve pain and restore function.
Cervical epidural steroid injections are performed to relieve chronic pain from inflamed and irritated/pinched spinal nerves in the neck that radiates into the shoulder, arm and/or hand. This kind of pain is referred to as cervical radiculopathy.
Thoracic epidural steroid injections are performed to relieve chronic pain from inflamed and irritated/pinched spinal nerves in the upper or mid back that radiates to the chest wall or abdomen. This kind of pain is uncommon and is referred to as thoracic radiculopathy.
Lumbar epidural steroid injections are performed to relieve chronic pain from irritated/pinched spinal nerves in the lower back that radiates into the hip, leg and/or foot. This kind of pain is referred to as lumbar radiculopathy It is also commonly referred to as sciatica, because the spinal nerves that make up the sciatic nerve are often involved.
Caudal epidural steroid injections are performed to relieve chronic pain from inflamed and irritated/pinched spinal nerves in the
This injection is completed from either the left or the right side of the spine where the nerve exits the spine. Putting anti-inflammatory medication near the source of the inflamed nerves can help reduce the pain.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and for some patients, with intravenous sedation. Fluoroscopy, a type of x-ray, will be used to guide the needle between the bony vertebrae into the epidural space. When the needle is correctly positioned the anesthetic and corticosteroid medications are injected into the epidural space around the nerve roots.
It generally takes 3-5 days before the steroid that was injected causes a reduction in your pain. You may return to your everyday activities and work the day after your injection. Many patients experience significant pain relief. For those experiencing only mild pain relief, one or two more injections may be performed to achieve full effect. The duration of pain relief varies from patient to patient, usually lasting for 3 months or more.
As with any procedure involving a needle, there is a rare chance of infection, bleeding, allergic reaction and nerve damage. Complications are extremely rare. Talk with your provider if you have specific questions about the risk of your procedure.
Dress in loose, comfortable clothing, and leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
You must have a driver to take you home after the procedure.
If you are scheduled to be sedated, you must fast for 8 hours before the procedure.
If you take medications for high blood pressure or any kind of heart condition, please take your medications as normal with a small sip of water.
If you take aspirin or any blood thinning medication you will need to stop taking it for 2-7 days before your procedure. Discuss the risks involved with the physician who prescribes your blood thinner. Restart the blood thinner the day after your procedure.
The procedure takes anywhere from 10-20 minutes.
The procedure will be done in our procedure room with the use of a fluoroscopy (x-ray) machine.
Yes, the injection can be repeated. 3-4 injections per year is typical.
If you are not currently a patient of Arkansas Pain Specialists, you will need a consultation visit first. If you are a current patient, please speak to your provider about scheduling your procedure.


Alopecia or loss of capillary density has increased among men and women, affecting the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Among the most frequent causes of this dermatological alteration are genetic predisposition (responsible for androgenetic alopecia), anemia, immunological diseases (which causes alopecia areata), medical treatments or thyroid disorders. Vitamin deficiency and sustained stress over time, obesity and diets with a high fat content also influence the thinning and loss of hair follicles, according to the latest studies. What can we do to stop baldness? The first thing is to go to the trichologist dermatologist, a specialist in the treatment and repair of the scalp, to find the cause of hair loss, and decide on the personalized treatment based on the diagnosis. The key to a definitive treatment against baldness is choosing the right hair clinic. And here, the most important thing is to identify which professional and which technique will best suit our needs.


Hearing loss may not have been something that you wanted (or needed) to address, until now. The great thing about the web is you can find pretty much anything online, including online hearing tests.
COVID-19 has transformed how we work and connect with friends and family. Many of us are now working from home and have become reliant on online services such as Zoom or Skype for staff meetings. Consequently, you may be one of many people who have realised that you can no longer rely on lip-reading when you’re speaking to people in your office.
What causes hearing difficulties?
There are a number of reasons that you might lose your hearing. You might also be someone who suffers from Tinnitus. Tinnitus is the very annoying buzzing or ringing in the ears. It makes life uber stressful when you are trying to concentrate yet all you can hear is high pitched ringing!
Embarrassment or loss of status (essentially the same reasons for not getting any medical check!) usually prevent us from seeking help. Ultimately, you have to weigh up if it is worth throwing away your career potential or isolation from friends and family because you are too embarrassed to seek help.
How is your hearing tested?
For those who are not ready to admit to experiencing hearing loss, you can test your hearing online. Here is a list of free online hearing tests. You will need headphones to do the tests properly:
1. Amplifon.com: the test takes you through six different (noisy) scenarios and you are asked a question after each scenario. Results are sent to you by email.
2. Boots Hearingcare: this test takes you through a series of sounds and you increase or decrease the sounds until you hear them.
3. Specsavers UK: this test is the same as the Boots Hearingcare test
4. Scrivens Hearing: you will be asked some introductory questions and then your hearing is tested using different high pitched sounds
5. Online test and audiogram printout: This is one of the best online hearing tests on the web. Using headphones you can test hearing in your left, right or both ears. Once you have completed the test, you can save or print your audiogram (a graph that shows your level of hearing loss). The website, created by Dr Stephane Pidgeon has lots of fantastic information about the hearing test.
What if I need a hearing aid!?
We’ve only listed 5 online tests but please bear in mind that any result will indicate that you need to get your hearing tested properly. You can get your hearing tested through the NHS. If you have a moderate level of hearing loss, the NHS will also issue free hearing aids. The NHS also provide aftercare free of charge.
Of course, you can also pay for hearing aids privately. The cost of hearing aids differs considerably depending on the hearing aid manufacturer. You also have to factor in any aftercare costs and insurance to cover loss or damage to your hearing aids.
Do I say anything at work?
If you have hearing loss, your employer is legally obliged to make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act.
Many employees are reluctant to say anything to their colleagues or managers at work. However, any responsible company will research how to support employees with hearing loss and may even invest in Deaf Awareness training.
The key message is to get your hearing tested, put your ability to communicate effectively at the top of your agenda, maintain your confidence and progress your career. Your ears will thank you for your efforts!


The full form of DMC Hospital is Dayanand Medical College. The actual abbreviation is DMC&H and it stands for Dayanand Medical College & Hospital. It is ranked 24th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework, which is a methodology adopted by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India. It is one of the best medical college and hospital located at Civil Lines, Ludhiana, Punjab, which offers excellent services to its patients. It is also famous for Hero DMC Heart Institute (HDHI) which provides care to patients with heart and blood vessel diseases. The college is affiliated to the Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, Punjab. It offers MBBS, MD/MS postgraduate, PG diploma courses and super-specialities.
The other full forms of DMC are:
|DMC||District Medical Committee|
|DMC||Detroit Medical Center|
|DMC||Downstate Medical Center (NY)|
|DMC||Direct Microscopic Count|
|DMC||Data Monitoring Committee|
|DMC||Diagnose Manage Cure|


We believe deeply in a person's ability to birth naturally. Birth is an experience like none other, and it can be powerful and transformational. The bonding that occurs within the family prepares all involved for the most important job of our lives - parenting. We support your entire family in every way that we are able during pregnancy, birth and beyond.
We know that when families seek midwifery care, it is a very conscious choice. We are committed to providing out-of-hospital birth options - whether in your home or at The Birthouse - to the Maine and New Hampshire communities in our travel radius.
To help folks decide if an out-of-hospital birth with Sacopee Midwives is the right choice for them, we offer a free consultation in person or virtually. Some insurance companies will reimburse you for our fees, but our practice does not bill insurance directly, so it is up to you to work with your insurance. If you would like to hire a professional to assist you, we are happy to refer you to insurance billers that our clients have worked successfully with in the past.
We require payment in full by thirty-seven weeks in pregnancy, and after your birth we will provide you with a statement that you can present to your insurance company to begin the reimbursement process, if it is available to you. Generally your insurance will pay for any screenings, labwork, ultrasounds or physician referrals you wish to have in pregnancy.
We acknowledge that many of our clients pay out-of-pocket for care from us, and we believe every family should be able to have a home birth if that is in their hearts. We offer a reduced fee discount schedule to those who qualify, and may be able to be creative with payment arrangements if discussed early in your pregnancy. See our Financial Agreement for more information.
Care we provide
Midwives provide individualized care, allowing birth to take its natural course and helping you move through this process, safely and confidently. Out-of-hospital birth is a wonderful choice for healthy, low risk people who want to experience birthing their baby in a place where they feel free, safe and private. Choosing midwifery care leads to less medical interventions such as inductions, c-sections, episiotomies, vacuum suction, and forceps. Our main goal is a safe and sacred birth for both you and your baby.
We consult with or refer to other healthcare providers when appropriate, and often work alongside doulas, lactation consultants, and pelvic floor therapists. We also see our clients benefit from chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage therapy.
You and your family will have the opportunity to build solid relationships of trust with your midwives during your pregnancy. Our visits last about an hour so there is plenty of opportunity for us to get to know each other well. We will answer questions you may have between visits promptly by email, text or phone call, and are available for emergencies 24 hours a day. During the prenatal period, we’ll schedule an appointment with you once per month until you reach 28 weeks, then every 2 weeks until 37 weeks of pregnancy. After that, we will visit with you once per week until your birth.
We are on-call for you 24 hours a day/7 days a week, and we’ll be in contact with you by phone as soon as you think labor may be starting. During your labor and birth, your midwives will be there to support and encourage you. We will monitor how you are doing emotionally and physically and will regularly check the baby’s heartbeat with a hand-held doppler. During this time, we can support you and your labor by providing massage, suggesting position changes, facilitating hydrotherapy and ensuring safety.
When your baby is being born, you can be in whatever position you find most comfortable: on our birth stool, in the tub, on hands and knees, squatting, lying on your side, or even on your back (the least common position of choice!). Your baby will be guided to your hands. These moments of falling in love with your baby, in your chosen environment, with soft lights, little noise and a calm atmosphere are truly invaluable. We have practiced delayed cord clamping for over 25 years, and believe that it provides important benefits to the newborn. We also encourage immediate skin-to-skin and breastfeeding within the first 30 minutes of birth, and will assist that process as needed.
After the birth, we stay to monitor you and your baby, do a complete newborn exam, administer newborn medications if desired, clean up and make sure you are comfortable before leaving approximately three to five hours after the birth. We leave you tucked in bed, as a family, ready to go to sleep, with a list of instructions on when to contact us and what to expect.
We continue to be on call for you in the postpartum, and will return to your home to see your family 24-48 hours after your birth. At this time, we can perform a Newborn Metabolic Screening and Critical Congenital Heart Disease Screening. Following this visit, we will file a birth certificate, and apply for a social security card for your baby. We will do another check-in at three or four days postpartum, and we’ll see you again at your home in seven to ten days. We then schedule a visit between three and four weeks, another check-in at six to eight weeks, and a final visit twelve weeks after your birth. During these appointments, we check in on breastfeeding, your baby's growth and health and your physical and emotional healing. We also discuss exercise, nutrition and birth control and offer well-body care, including a pelvic floor health exam at the eight week visit. We encourage you to touch base with us in the first year as needed, and especially if you think you are experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety.


Are you looking for a way to finally get relief for that annoying back pain? Maybe, you're looking for a holistic pain relief method. Whether it’s for your back, neck, joints, etc, the pain relief you’re seeking may be right in front of you! Stretching. You know, the thing everyone is told they should do but doesn’t? Yes, stretching can make a big impact when it comes to pain relief!
How Stretching Helps Pain Relief and Pain Management
Everyone experiences pain from time to time. Maybe it’s from an intense workout session, a lack of correct movement in our daily routine, previous injury, or even from having slept wrong on the pillow last night. Regardless of why you’re experiencing pain, stretching can help reduce some of this discomfort.
When experiencing pain, one of the contributing factors could be tight muscles. Stretching can significantly reduce muscle tension. Your muscles need to experience movement in order to reduce tightness. This is why if you sit for long periods of time without breaks, you can feel tightness and pain in your lower body and back. And while moving around can bring some relief, stretching your muscles and holding them in a lengthening position for longer periods of time can help bring you better pain relief.
It’s also important to recognize how stretching can help with pain management and prevention. Stretching has been shown to improve joint mobility which can provide a greater range-of-motion in our daily activities. Apart from joint disease or injury, oftentimes people are experiencing pain in their joints because they are unable to comfortably take the joint through its full range-of-motion. If you can move better, you’ll feel better!
Stretching also facilitates better blood flow, allowing the muscles to recover faster and more effectively. Most people tend to be consistent with their workout routine or sports practices, but not their recovery practices. The harder the workout, the more crucial the recovery is. Muscle fibers need time to repair themselves to perform at their best each and every time. Stretching promotes more blood flow to the muscles which brings fresh oxygen and nutrients the cells need to repair and thrive.
Why assisted stretching for pain Relief
You know stretching can help you with pain relief, but what if you’re not sure what muscles you need to stretch? Or what if you’re worried about hurting yourself more? An assisted stretch is just what you need!
During an assisted stretch, a highly trained professional like our Flexologists will help you stretch the muscles you need to help relieve tension and pain. They will also help you hold the stretch for an extended period of time so that you can feel the full benefits of the stretch.
Here at Stretchlab we also focus on "PNF" stretching which is Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. This style of stretching focuses on contraction and release of tension which correlates with the breath, allowing the body to relax into a deeper range-of-motion. This means that when you work with our Flexologists, you’re able to safely get a deeper stretch and greater tension relief.
Plus, when we do our own stretching we are not always able to relax fully because our mind and body are in a heightened state of awareness. When being stretched by someone else, our body is able to let go and the mind can focus on the breath, allowing the body to relax and release tension.
start feeling better
Stretching is a great option when looking to reduce daily aches and pains. It can help relieve tension in areas you’re currently experiencing pain, while also helping you prevent further injuries in the future.
People typically think stretching and flexibility training are the kinds of physical exercises only dancers, gymnasts, or extreme athletes need to do. In reality, stretching and flexibility training can help us all move better if not safer. It helps us move more effectively throughout our day-to-day lives doing simple activities such as squatting down to pick up the newspaper or reaching overhead to grab a box off the shelf. If you have not already, book an assisted stretch at a StretchLab near you so you can start moving and feel better!


Journal Entry Week 1 20220829 - klmartinez/DSF Wiki
The aim of this first entry is to provide a brief introduction to my research as well as what I hope to achieve and improve on in my research through participating in DSF.
A brief presentation of my DSF introduction can be found here.
In summary, I work as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Karnes Laboratory in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Arizona. My research includes identifying genetic factors that underlie complex disease and adverse drug reactions.
As part of the Karnes Lab, my research generally falls under the umbrella of precision medicine (an emerging approach for disease treatment and prevention that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle for each person), and specifically in pharmacogenomics (an approach used by precision medicine focused on the study of how genes affect a person's response to drugs).
Currently, my research primarily focuses on using large genomic datasets to identify genetic variants that are associated with complex disease and adverse drug reactions, often by employing genome-wide association study (GWAS) methods, in diverse and admixed cohorts. Specifically, I have three ongoing projects: 1) examining local and global ancestry in a self-identified Hispanic/Latino cohort in relation to pharmacogenetic variants associated with Warfarin, 2) identifying disease associations to ABO blood groups in the AllofUs study using a PheWAS approach, and 3) identifying genomic risk factors for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) in the AllofUs study using a GWAS approach.
I believe that my experience in DSF will provide me tools to conduct more reproducible and collaborative projects. For example, I have very little experience with GitHub, and learning about GiHub Wiki pages this past week was already very beneficial. I can now create repositories and share Wiki pages and files via GitHub which already provides me a platform to make my work and code more accessible. I also hope to develop better data management skills and coding skills.


Dr. Aaron Martin
A 2002 graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and a Fellow of International Academy of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. Dr. Martin is married and has six sons and three daughters. Dr. Martin has helped thousands of people in Ankeny and all over the central Iowa area. He continues to strive to provide the best Chiropractic care possible.
Consumer’s Research Council of America ranks Dr. Martin as one of the top chiropractors.
Dr. Vicki Tlach
A 2012 graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic. Dr. Vicki is certified in the Webster Technique, a specialized chiropractic technique used to help alleviate symptoms during pregnancy, such as low back, sciatica and other pelvic symptoms by improving proper biomechanics of the pelvis and spine.
Dr. Vicki is married and has two children. She loves working with infants and kids in pediatric and family care.
Dr. Sean Delahunt
Dr. Delahunt is a 2013 Graduate of Palmer Chiropractic College. Dr. Delahunt is married and has two sons. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University, where he competed as an NCAA Division I athlete in Track & Field. Dr. Delahunt was exposed to Chiropractic at a young age. His experiences with injury prevention and rehabilitation at the collegiate level reinforced his desire to become a Doctor of Chiropractic. This propelled him to excel with advanced certification in Chiropractic Sports Injuries. Dr. Delahunt’s goal is to use his knowledge and skills to provide the best Chiropractic care possible to the Des Moines metro area.
Dr. Nick Johnson
In 2016 Nicholas was accepted into the Doctor of Chiropractic program at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. For his final term, Nicholas underwent an internship under Dr. Aaron Martin at Iowa Chiropractic Clinic in Ankeny, Iowa.
In June of 2020 Nicholas graduated from Palmer Summa Cum Laude, and was the Valedictorian of his class and achieved an award for Academic Excellence for making the dean's list of the college for every term of the Doctor of Chiropractic program. He is a strong believer in the self-healing power of the human body and wants to help spread the amazing benefits chiropractic brings.
Dr. Bradley Strazewski (Dr. Straz for short) is a 2020 graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic. The son of a chiropractor, Dr. Straz has been under chiropractic care for the majority of his life. He has always had a fascination with how the human body worked. After researching many different studies in the health and fitness field, when the time came to pick a career, the choice seemed obvious.
Dr. Straz is a firm believer in the body’s ability to heal itself and he looks forward to using his knowledge and the tools that he has learned along the way, to help restore health to his patients.


Hair has three sections. The outer protective layer, called the cuticle, is thin and colourless. The second layer, called the cortex, is an important part. It gives the hair strength, colour and thickness, and determines whether it will be straight or curly. The third layer is the medulla, and it is typically made up of a row of cells which are two to four columns wide. Its exact function in the hair is unknown. The final element is the follicle, a sac within the scalp where the hair is generated. Strands of hair are rooted in these hair follicles in the skin, and glands called sebaceous glands surround the follicles.
A hair shaft is to a follicle, what a blade of grass is to a grass seed. That is you can not have one with out the other. It also means to achieve results like GROW MORE HAIR are only achieved when there are MORE HAIR FOLLICLES in the area. In the same way, to GROW MORE GRASS on a section of earth, you need more seeds to achieve that result.
Dr Okuda (left), a Japanese dermatologist, performed the first recorded attempts of hair transplantation on humans. In 1939 he reported in Japanese dermatological journals his results from treating various burns victims by transplanting plugs of hair from the permanent hair zone into burnt scar tissue on the scalp, eyebrow and moustache regions. Dr Okudanever mentionedhair transplanttreating male or female pattern hair loss and it is unlikely that he realised the potential of his work. His reports never made it outside Japan and he was killed during WorldWar II..
Dr Norman Orentreich (right) of New York, completely unaware of Dr Okuda’s previous work, described a similar procedure he had performed in 1959. Dr Orentreich is considered to be the father of modern hair transplantation because he realised the application of the procedure in the treatment of baldness, and also because he recognised the importance of donor dominance.
The success of any hair transplant procedure is dependant upon the incidence of donor dominance. Simply stated, this is the phenomenon whereby hair-bearing skin taken from the permanent zone at the back and sides of the scalp and transferred to the balding areas at the front, top and crown will retain its original programming (or resistance to the effects of the male hormone) and will grow hair and continue to grow hair for as long as it would have in its original position. Since those early days in New York, the science and art of hair transplantation has evolved to become the most commonly performed procedure on men in INDIA today. To fully explain the advancements that have been made, it is necessary to look back at how the procedures were performed.
RENAISSANCE CLINIC INDIA performs both follicular unit grafting (FUG) and follicular unit extraction (FUE) as a simple walk in walk out procedure under local anesthesia. These procedures usually involve the movement of thousands of tiny hair follicles from the balding resistant areas at the back and sides of the scalp to the areas at the front, top and crown that are susceptible to hair loss.
Once the procedure is completed the patient can leave our clinic with a thin headband type bandage covering the donor area at the back and sides of the scalp. The recipient area at the top of the head does not require any bandaging and the patient is free to wear a cap or bandana immediately after surgery.
A patient is shown with his existing hair taped up to expose the donor region undergoing FUE with individual hairs being removed from the donor area. To perform an FUE procedure a large area at the back and sides of the scalp is clippered down to a #1. Now the surgeon will make a tiny circular incision around each follicular unit. As each incision is made the graft is then carefully extracted one by one from the scalp. These are then given to the surgical team who will check them under the microscope and further trim them if required. The small holes from which the grafts are extracted are so small they are left to heal on their own. From here on the procedure is much the same as the FUG.
Following either procedure scabs are evident on the top of the scalp for about 7-10 days. Some minor swelling may occur in the forehead region 3 days after the procedure. Patients can generally return to normal activities within a couple of days after the procedure with some limitations on exercise, smoking and drinking. The new hair will begin to grow through about three months after the procedure with final result expected about 18 months after surgery.
A patient is shown with his existing hair taped up to expose the donor region undergoing FUG with a linear strip of hair bearing skin being removed.
Follicular Unit Grafting at RENAISSANCE CLINIC involves removing a thin strip of hair bearing skin from the region at the back and sides of the scalp. once this piece is removed the the two edges are brought together and sutured closed. The patients hair directly above the incision covers the area so it is not noticeable.
This strip of hair bearing skin is then given to a team of surgical assistants who dissect this one piece into thousands of follicular unit grafts containing 1, 2, 3 or 4 hair grafts. During this process the grafts are kept suspended in a special solution that ensures they are kept cool and hydrated and can survive many hours outside the body.
As the graft dissecting continues tiny incisions are made in the scalp areas to be treated with very fine gauge needles. The surgical team are able to control all aspects of angle, depth and density to ensure a natural result. The grafts are then placed into these incisions with a very fine pair of tweezers. The 1 hair grafts are placed in the front hairline with the 2 hair grafts placed directly behind. This allows us to create a gradual hairline zone that mimics nature. The 3 and 4 hair grafts are then placed into the forelock region and through the mid scalp for maximum density.
If you could view hair under a microscope you would see that hairs do not grow singly (as is the common belief), but in naturally occurring groups of up to four hairs. These groupings are known as follicular units. This is how the hair used to grow in those areas where it has receded, and using these natural groupings is how we will replace it.
They are not to be confused with micro grafts. Micro grafts are dissected without the aid of magnification and whilst they can be cut into grafts containing one to four hairs they are not necessarily from the same follicular unit. The resulting growth rate and subsequent appearance are neither dense nor natural when compared to the results achievable with follicular unit grafting.
The binocular stereoscopic dissecting microscope allows us to identify and dissect these follicular units whilst sculpting around the sebaceous glands and other appendages crucial for the grafts survival. The resulting grafts are the smallest possible grafts you can achieve that will experience a very high growth rate in excess of 95% in the hands of the right surgical team.
Most importantly with grafts of this size we are replacing the hair in those areas where it has been lost in the same way that it used to grow, in naturally occurring groups of one to four hairs. The follicular unit is the foundation for restoring a natural looking head of hair.
The front hairline is the most critical aspect of any surgical restoration. In the past people have equated the look of a transplanted front hairline to that of a “row of corn” or “dolls hair”. Modern surgical methods have allowed us to overcome the shortcomings of the past through the use of two significant changes.
1.The use of follicular units in the front hairline containing 1 to 2 hairs only and the ability to place them very close together to achieve a high density.
2.The use of an irregular diffuse wave pattern that mimics a natural hairline with minimal or no hair loss. The natural hairline is an irregular zone with a soft transition from forehead through sparse, fine hairs to the thicker denser hairs approximately 1 to 1.5cm behind the front hairline. For many patients the natural appearance of the front hairline is the single biggest factor in determining the success of the procedure.
The first 1.5cm is constructed out of three distinct zones of varying densities and graft sizes. The use of these three distinct zones allows us to produce the natural results that defy detection as a transplanted hairline. In most cases the depth of Zone 2 can extend to as much as 2.5cm in the bi-temporal region as is consistently found in mature men with limited or no hair loss.RENAISSANCE CLINIC has performed many procedures on the front hairlines of men and women.
The above comments are general and apply in many cases but not all. There are a number of variables such as age, future balding, patient’s features, skin colour, and hair type and colour that will ultimately determine the final shape of the scalp line and surgical plan.


Our fabric masks are not medical grade gear, they are intended to be a barrier for you when you have to dash to the store for essentials. They will not guarantee to prevent you from contracting COVID-19.
That being said, they provide limited containment of respiratory droplets if folks who are or may be sick wear them, which contributes to cutting down on community spread and allows (as it should be) for the medical grade gear to be reserved for our doctors, nurses & caregivers etc. on the frontline.
Our masks also serve as a gentle reminder to not touch your face.


Trenbolone Mixture Dosage and Method of Use
When it comes to using Trenbolone, one of the most potent anabolic steroids available, it’s crucial to understand the dosage and method of use for optimal results. Trenbolone is known for its ability to rapidly increase muscle mass, strength, and overall performance, but it also comes with potential risks if not used correctly.
The recommended dosage of Trenbolone can vary depending on factors such as experience level, goals, and tolerance to the compound. However, a common dosage range for Trenbolone is typically between 200-700mg per week, split into two to three injections. It’s important to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it to assess tolerance and minimize side effects.
Method of Use
Trenbolone is typically used in cycles ranging from 6-12 weeks, with some advanced users extending the cycle up to 16 weeks. It’s essential to follow Trenbolon Mixture a proper post-cycle therapy (PCT) plan after completing a Trenbolone cycle to help restore natural hormone production and minimize potential side effects.
It’s recommended to inject Trenbolone intramuscularly in the glutes, shoulders, or thighs using a sterile needle and syringe. Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation and ensure proper absorption of the compound.
For best results, Trenbolone is often stacked with other steroids such as Testosterone and Anavar to enhance the effects while minimizing side effects. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or experienced bodybuilder before starting any steroid cycle to ensure safety and effectiveness.
In conclusion, understanding the proper dosage and method of use for Trenbolone is essential for maximizing its benefits while minimizing potential risks. By following a structured cycle and using the compound responsibly, users can achieve significant gains in muscle mass, strength, and performance.


NEUMA Digitally Tailored Masks are custom 3D printed for people who use CPAP machines to treat obstructive sleep apnea, a serious disorder that can cause heart disease, diabetes, excessive sleepiness and other dangerous symptoms. 40 million people in the United States suffer from sleep apnea.
Although CPAP machines are very effective, approximately 40% of the patients who are prescribed the device do not use them, primarily because the masks are uncomfortable, unattractive and prone to leak air.
A Neuma mask is fabricated for each patient in 4 steps:
(1) The patient visits the Neuma website to select a style.
(2) A 3D digital model is created from 2D photos uploaded to the site.
(3) The model is sized in a computer CAD program for a perfect fit.
(4) The mask is 3D printed and shipped to the user.
Because every Neuma mask is made to fit the contours of each user's unique face, the mask is more comfortable, doesn't leak and requires a much less complex and unattractive head strap.


Medical devices have become a vital part of modern healthcare, from diagnosis to treatment and prevention of illnesses. Therefore, ensuring these devices meet the highest safety and quality standards is crucial. In this regard, ISO 13485, a specific quality management standard designed for the medical device industry, plays a crucial role in the global medical device market.
ISO 13485 sets out the requirements for a quality management system that is specific to the medical device industry. It covers the entire product lifecycle from design and development to manufacturing, installation, and servicing. Adhering to this standard enables companies to meet regulatory requirements in countries where they operate and demonstrate their commitment to safety and quality.
The impact of ISO 13485 is far-reaching. Compliance with the standard is often a requirement for accessing international markets, including the European Union, Japan, and Canada. It can also streamline regulatory processes, reducing the time and resources needed for market access. In a rapidly changing and competitive industry like medical devices, quick access to international markets can make all the difference.
Complying with ISO 13485 also enhances product quality and customer satisfaction. The standard promotes a customer-focused approach to quality management, emphasizing meeting customer requirements and enhancing satisfaction. This can lead to improved brand reputation and customer loyalty.
Moreover, ISO 13485 can help companies identify and address potential risks and hazards associated with their products. By implementing a risk-based approach to quality management, companies can proactively mitigate potential safety issues and improve patient outcomes.
In summary, ISO 13485 plays a vital role in the global medical device market. Compliance with the standard is critical for accessing international markets, improving product quality, enhancing customer satisfaction, and mitigating potential risks. As the medical device industry evolves and becomes more competitive, adhering to ISO 13485 will become increasingly important for companies looking to succeed in this essential field.


In recent years there’s been a hike in studies looking at the health impact of our increasingly sedentary lives, culminating in sitting being declared the new smoking. This may seem a bit dramatic, but time and time again research highlights the significant risks of sitting for prolonged periods.
On average we spend over nine hours a day sitting and this has no doubt increased considerably through lockdown. We’ve all spent more time at home than ever before, including many of us working from home without any form of commute. In the short term, with the extenuating and extraordinary circumstances of the pandemic, this is manageable. But for some of us, our working life is set to continue this way for the foreseeable future, so our habits need to be addressed before they become a problem.
In 2019, the results of the Fellowes The Work Colleague of the Future project were unveiled, in the form of a life-sized dummy they called Emma. After extensive research into the profound effects of a desk-bound job, this predicted what physical changes we might expect to see within the next two decades unless some key changes are made to working environments. Sitting for hours with bad posture and making repetitive movements had caused Emma to have a permanently bent back, rotund stomach and swollen wrists and ankles, plus varicose veins from poor blood flow. More than 90% of the UK office workers interviewed for the project reported health issues that reduced their productivity. Almost half suffered from eye strain, sore backs or headaches caused by their inadequate workspace, and seven out of ten workers were regularly taking medication to combat these complaints. It’s likely that enforced working from home has exacerbated this further, with hours spent on Zoom and tales of ironing boards being repurposed as desks.
Below are just some of the physiological effects that prolonged sitting can trigger:
- Poor posture is common when sitting and this puts pressure on the lower back and creates tension in your neck and shoulders. Limited movement also stiffens joints.
- Your metabolism slows down by 90 percent after just half an hour of sitting, limiting the action of enzymes that move fat from your arteries to your muscles to be burnt off.
- Good cholesterol drops by 20 percent after two hours of sitting. This is the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. The body also becomes less sensitive to insulin, increasing the risk of diabetes.
- C reactive protein, an inflammation marker, is raised in people who sit for extended periods, and is thought to be what increases their risk of cancer, predominantly breast or colon, but also lung, prostate, endometrial and ovarian cancer.
- Your ability to focus is reduced when you sit for too long. More worryingly, a correlation has been found between people who are more sedentary and thinner medial temporal lobes, the area of the brain responsible for creating and storing memories. This is a known precursor to dementia.
The cure for too much sitting isn’t to do more exercise though. The term ‘active couch potato’ has been coined to describe those people who meet the recommended exercise quota but nonetheless spend the majority of their time sitting, both at work and at home. Exercise is good for you of course, but it can't counteract or offset the potential damage done through so many sedentary hours.
So what can you do?
Just getting up and moving around for a few minutes every 20 minutes or so gets everything going again. Simple. Research has shown that breaking up periods of inactivity is one of the best ways to prevent type 2 diabetes, for example. But when you’re absorbed in what you’re doing, it’s too easy to forget about standing and moving around, so we end up going for hours at a stretch sitting in front of our computers or the TV. And sitting behaviour tracks from childhood to adolescence to adulthood, which means it really matters how much your children sit now.
The key is to develop good habits. Make a point of getting up whenever TV ads are on, or during your working day, whether you’re talking on the phone or joining an online meeting, ask yourself if you could be standing instead. This is where an adjustable standing desk comes in. It helps you take every opportunity to move, but also allows you to sit for the tasks that require it. You can alternate between the two and this is the ideal scenario for your body. It also gives you the possibility to build up your stamina to the ratio of standing to sitting that works best for you.
- Get Up! Why Your Chair is Killing You and What You Can Do About it by Dr James A. Levine
- Sedentary Behaviour and Obesity: Review of the Current Scientific Evidence. March 2010


Why we need oxygen?
In order to sustain life our bodies take in oxygen at each breath.
Clean dry air at sea level contains about 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen and small amounts of other gases.
Oxygen molecules move from the tiny alveoli cells in our lungs into the bloodstream where they are circulated throughout the body by the heart.
If a person suffers from a malfunctioning heart or lungs or both, they will generally require supplementary oxygen at some stage.
Our bodies need oxygen to metabolise (breakdown) our food into energy and heat.
A result of metabolism is the production of carbon dioxide which we breathe out along with the other gases via the lungs.
Supplemental oxygen is ‘medical grade oxygen’. This means that it is above 85% pure oxygen.
All supplementary oxygen equipment available from EasyOxygen produces ‘medical grade oxygen’.
What happens if we have insufficient oxygen?
Oxygen is vital to life. If someone is under oxygenated it will impact all body systems and make everyday tasks much more difficult to carry out, as well as place additional stress on the body.
If not addressed, under oxygenation (hypoxia) will have severe ramifications for your health.
What are the main diseases that lead to the need for supplemental oxygen?
The demand for supplemental oxygen therapy is increasing as more people age, and some medical conditions become more prevalent.
Lung disease affects 2.6 million Australians impacting on many people’s lives as well as their families.
The most common category of lung disease is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), where it is estimated that one in seven Australians over 40 years of age suffer from some form of it.
COPD is a progressive and irreversible lung condition and includes diseases such as ‘chronic bronchitis’, and ‘emphysema’, or a combination of the two, where damaged lung tissue and narrowing of the airways makes breathing difficult. Whilst the disease cannot be cured, its rate of progression can be slowed down through things such as a healthy diet, and exercise.
It is estimated that one in 17 Australians is likely to develop lung cancer before 85 years. Forecasts predict that this figure will increase in the future.
Asthma sufferers represent currently 10% of the population (about 2.5 million people), or 1 in 9 Australians.
There are also several other less common forms of lung disease including asbestosis, interstitial lung disease (most commonly affects children), pulmonary arterial hypertension, and pulmonary fibrosis.
USEFUL LINKS BELOW
1 Accessed 31 July 2017 from Lung Foundation Australia Fact Sheetat: http://lungfoundation.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/LFA-Generic-Brochure-February2014.pdf
Accessed 1 August 2017 from Cancer Australia at: https://lungcancer.canceraustralia.gov.au/statistics3 Accessed 2 August 2017 from Asthma Australia at:https://www.asthmaaustralia.org.au/qld/about-asthma/what-is-asthma-/statistics
Your prescription - what does it mean?
Oxygen must be prescribed by your Doctor or Specialist. Oxygen is deemed to be a medical drug and an oxygen concentrator cannot legally be supplied to a person without a prescription. This serves to protect the person from potentially improper use of oxygen.
Commonly people mistake ‘breathlessness’ as an indication of a lack of oxygen, however it may be symptomatic of several other underlying health conditions. In these cases, supplementary oxygen may at best not be helpful and at worst could be harmful.
Oxygen is a gas and is generally prescribed in ‘Litres per Minute’ (LPM). The majority of people are prescribed at 2LPM, however an individual prescription can vary quite widely with doses as low as 0.5 to 1 LPM up to and above 5LPM.
Often as a medical condition worsens an individual may need to increase the dose, although NOT without the advice of their doctor.
Scripts may also refer to a ‘nocturnal’ rate whilst you are sleeping as well as an ‘exercise’ rate where you are physically active.
Scripts may be for 24 hours/day, 16 hours or less per day or even only on exercise/activity.
So, as you can see there is a wide variety of oxygen prescriptions to address the diverse oxygen supplementation needs of different people and their respective medical conditions.
Oxygen concentrators, how do they work?
The EverFlo is your night time companion.
Plugged into the power it will quietly and continuously provide you with medical grade oxygen whilst you sleep.
Suitable for use with CPAP machines
All oxygen concentrators work by drawing in the surrounding air and passing it through an external broad particle filter to remove any airborne particles and ambient air pollution.
The filtered air is then passed through a molecular sieve bed. The nitrogen is extracted and the oxygen stored under pressure. The oxygen is then concentrated to the level of medical grade oxygen.
A distinctive intake and purge cycle can be heard as the concentrator works. As the concentrator is continuously taking in air and storing oxygen there is no need for a large storage capacity. The main requirement is to have a reliable energy supply. [
How is supplementary oxygen supplied?
Supplementary oxygen is most commonly supplied in one of three ways, or a combination of two of the three.
1. Home oxygen - the stationary in-home concentrator is a well established piece of equipment and is generally quite affordable.
2. Gas cylinders are used by some people and are commonly supplied as part of a government funded home oxygen support program. The cylinders vary in size, but once emptied, need to be refilled.This is usually at a cost to the user once they have exceeded their quota. Cylinders can also be difficult or cumbersome for somepeople.
3. The portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) that have been developed over the last ten years are continually improving in reliability, output and weight. POCs are becoming more widely used and hence better known, providing a user with oxygen in a more convenient and mobile way.
In-home versus portable oxygen concentrators
Home or stationary oxygen concentrators are a very cost effective way to receive supplemental oxygen.
Units such as the Philips Everflo or the Newlife AirSep Intensity must be connected to mains power. The user receives oxygen via a nasal cannula or oxygen mask.
The nasal cannula or mask is connected to oxygen tubing, most commonly 15 or 30metre in length.
The in-home concentrators have wheels so they can be readily moved about the house. The user has to navigate their daily life being ‘attached’ to the concentrator.
Home oxygen concentrators produce continuous flow oxygen with machines varying in output from 0.5 LPM through to 5 or 10LPM.
Oxygen can be supplied via a nasal cannula - a piece of plastic tubing with two curved nasal prongs that sit in the front of the nostrils or by way of a face mask.
This works reasonably well for most people whilst at home or asleep.
See related video for Philips Everflo. Credit: Med Equipment Direct.com
However, the capacity to be mobile outside of the home is severely restricted.
Oxygen gas bottles are commonly provided to assist with mobility out of the home, but these can be heavy and awkward.
Often as a person adjusts to their changed circumstances where they now require supplemental oxygen, they start to look for a more versatile and cost effective source of oxygen.
A supply of oxygen that will enable them to move about more freely and return to a more active lifestyle.
Portable oxygen concentrators
Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are a relatively new means of supplying supplemental oxygen whilst giving an individual greater personal freedom.
As the technology improves, the POCs are reducing in size and weight.
Weight and size reduction is made possible by supplying pulse oxygen. This is where your breath triggers the release (pulse) of oxygen.
The use of pulse delivery significantly lessens the demand for oxygen.
The majority of people can comfortably use pulse delivery oxygen whilst out and about, although it is recommended that you check with your Doctor first.
Many people will combine a continuous flow machine at home and maybe at night with a pulse delivery portable concentrator if out during the day.
As a pulse delivery unit requires the user to breathe in order to ‘trigger’ the release of oxygen, a pulse unit will not work with anyone who breathes through their mouth as the ‘trigger’ will not be activated.
Quite often a person can manage a pulse unit whilst out and about through the day as the unit will alarm if it does not detect a breath. A firm breath will generally reset the unit and stop the alarm. However, this will not be a suitable unit for sleeping if you are a mouth breather, as you will be continually woken up.
It is also important to understand that selecting a portable concentrator based on size and weight alone is NOT always going to best meet your oxygen needs. This is especially important when you are ambulant.
For some people their oxygen need increases rapidly on activity and they may require a higher output POC.
The other area of ‘potential confusion’ is the ‘bolus size’. The bolus is the amount of oxygen discharged by the POC when the trigger is activated based on a breath. A higher setting on your POC means a larger bolus.
Some people have a higher respiratory rate on exertion and may ‘out breathe’ a POC. Hence the unit may alarm frequently. How a Portable Oxygen Concentrator works.
EasyOxygen POCs all produce the best output of oxygen available in the marketplace for their size and weight.
Portable concentrators generally feature at least two ways of carrying the unit usually by handle or shoulder strap, with some models allowing for a backpack.
The heavier units are supplied with a trolley.
All of the POCs available for purchase from EasyOxygen are able to be used whilst flying, although the airlines do require you to complete a form in advance of travel. I
t is always advisable to check if the POC is approved for travel by the respective airline before booking.
ALSO check with your Doctor as oxygen levels reduce with altitude and the POC may require a higher dose setting or may not be able to meet your oxygen needs.
A POC can generally be used with a walker, wheelchair/power chair or a mobility scooter, either carried in the basket or using the straps.
My Simply Go Mini goes everywhere with me. The extended battery life gives me up to 9 hours of oxygen at 2LPM and that’s plenty of time to do most things. I can’t recommend the unit highly enough. Jack
The Simply Go provides a single solution for anyone requiring continuous flow whilst sleeping but can comfortably manage pulse flow throughout the day
The hybrid oxygen supplementation solution
There are several oxygen concentrators that are able to produce continuous flow oxygen as well as pulse oxygen. These units are a great solution for someone perhaps wanting to travel where bringing along the home oxygen concentrator is difficult or not practical.
Whilst moving about through the day the unit can be switched to pulse delivery and provide greater operational battery time than possible with continuous flow delivery.
It should be noted that in order to keep the weight down continuous flow settings are at either a maximum of 2 as with the Simply Go or 3LPM (Sequal Eclipse 5) only.
Also, as continuous flow delivery requires a much greater quantity of oxygen, battery life is much reduced on that setting.
Both units provide good battery life if operated on pulse.
Generally, whilst sleeping these units need to be plugged into mains power, to ensure you have an uninterrupted sleep. Whilst these units can produce both continuous and pulse flow oxygen it is important to understand that they are not designed to be used long term and replace the larger home oxygen concentrator!
Matching an oxygen concentrator to your needs
As detailed in the above sections, you require: Your script which indicates your oxygen dose in litres per minute
How many hours a day you require oxygen
Whether you require a higher dose on exertion
Whether you need to use the concentrator while sleeping Whether you can successfully use pulse delivered oxygen
DOs and DON’Ts of Oxygen therapy
DO avoid any open flame (oxygen is highly combustible)
DO avoid using your concentrator in areas where people may be smoking
DO only use a nasal cannula with a POC Do use either a mask or nasal cannula with an in-home concentrator DO treat the equipment with care DON’T get equipment wet


Rediscover Radiance: Unveiling Dental Implants Turkey
Embark on a transformative journey for your smile with Dental Implants Turkey, where precision and excellence converge to redefine your dental experience. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the sophistication of dental implants in Turkey and explore how this modern solution can elevate your quest for the perfect smile.
Deciphering Dental Implants and Their Allure:
Dental implants, meticulously crafted from titanium screws, offer a cutting-edge solution to restore missing teeth, providing a blend of natural aesthetics and functional benefits. In Turkey, dental implants shine for their use of premium materials and the application of advanced surgical techniques by skilled professionals.
Why Choose Dental Implants in Turkey?
- Expertise and Insightful Experience: Dental implant specialists in Turkey bring extensive experience, delivering exceptional care through the application of the latest techniques and innovations.
- Leading-Edge Technological Integration: Dental implant procedures in Turkey benefit from state-of-the-art equipment in clinics, ensuring a more precise and effective treatment process.
- Affordability without Compromise: The cost of dental implants in Turkey is often more budget-friendly compared to many European counterparts, ensuring accessible, high-quality treatment.
Embarking on the Dental Implant Journey:
- Comprehensive Examination and Tailored Planning: The journey begins with a thorough examination by a specialist, leading to a meticulously planned treatment personalized to your unique needs and health.
- Surgical Artistry: During the surgical phase, the specialist delicately places the titanium implant into the jawbone, creating a robust and natural foundation.
- Patience in Healing: Post-surgery, a healing period allows the implant to seamlessly integrate with the jawbone over several months.
- Crafting the Final Radiance: With healing complete, a custom prosthetic or crown is artfully placed onto the implant, ensuring not just a restored smile but one that radiates natural beauty and functionality.
Dental Implants: Your Gateway to Confidence:
Beyond restoring missing teeth, dental implants inspire confidence by creating a resilient and trustworthy smile. In Turkey, experts in dental implants empower patients to embark on a journey towards a revitalized and self-assured smile.
Reignite your smile with Dental Implants Turkey. Step into a world of contemporary technology, seasoned professionals, and cost-effectiveness, where the pursuit of the perfect smile becomes a transformative reality.


Psychological First Aid Training Coordinator Guide
IDMH and University at Albany CPHP 02/2017
The Psychological First Aid (PFA) Training Coordinator Guide is a tool to help you coordinate PFA training for agency staff and other public health preparedness and response partners. This guidebook has been created to assist local public health and healthcare emergency preparedness training coordinators, emergency managers, human resources staff, and other workforce development personnel to develop sustainable policies and practices around PFA Training.
Title: Psychological First Aid Training Coordinator Guide
Created By: IDMH and University at Albany CPHP
Click on the link to access this tool.