Q Statistics show that over one third of all Americans have sought out some form of alternative therapy, despite the fact that most insurers will not cover even the most mainstream alternatives. Given the existence of such high demand, why aren't health plans covering less traditional treatments?
A There is good news on this front. Wholistic health care is truly on the move. Centers are opening up everywhere you look. Lots of 'mainstream' folks are seeking these therapies for one simple reason . . . they work. As a result of this massive movement to Complimentary Medicine, we do have the attention of the providers. After all, if a patient can receive relief from a few adjustments, massage, acupuncture, or a yoga regime . . . that sure is a lot less expensive than back surgery. So in answer to your question . . . yes, it is difficult to find a health plan to cover these therapies but, as far as I can see, it is going to become increasingly easier to do so. As far as a local provider goes, I happen to know that there is one company breaking from the pack. St. Augustine Healthcare, Inc., in collaboration with one of the nation's premier healthcare organizations, Oxford Health Plans, has entered the commercial market with a commitment to take healthcare in a more responsive, patient-driven direction. To provide members with a choice in the type of care they receive, including non-traditional therapies, St. Augustine Healthcare is introducing a comprehensive Alternative Medicine program through a credentialed network of providers. St. Augustine's Alternative Medicine Network, which will be in place by late summer, includes acupuncturists, massage therapists and yoga instructors. To learn more about this wonderful opportunity that we will all have here in the Tampa Bay area call St. Augustine at (813) 288-7600. This truly is a win win for all of us practitioners and patients!
Q I've tried every type of diet possible and I thought I was finally on the right track eating lots of rice and beans, pasta, etc. only to find out that I'm gaining more weight than ever now. Can you point me in the right direction?
A Contrary to popular belief, eating lots of carbohydrates (whether they are refined or not) can really pack on the pounds. Whenever you injest foods that have a high glycemic index (i.e. an increase in blood insulin levels) this creates an inverse effect with the body's ability to burn fat. What actually happens is the body can only use a certain amount of carbohydrate for energy . . . the rest will be turned into fat as stored energy. So what are optimal and non-optimal carbs? Carbs with lots of water and fiber are optimal...i.e. greens, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower . . . fruits like oranges, apples, melons. Non-optimal carbs are potatoes, rice, beans (yes beans are considered a carbohydrate!) pasta, bread, and all those other goodies that we have been conditioned to think were so good for us. Now, I'm not suggesting that they are not good for you . . . but in moderation. Moderation is always the key. Actually even 'moderation' should be used in moderation.
Q What is Applied Kinesiology and how could it benefit me?
A A.K. is an interdisciplinary approach to health care which draws together the core elements of the complementary therapies. Symptomatology is created by the result of the interactions of four interdependent physiologic relationships. They are physical (bone and muscle), chemical (pharmaceuticals and nutriceuticals), emotional (mental), and spiritual (metaphysical). The philosophy behind A.K. is that anything can cause anything, which means that two people can come in with the same symptomatic complaints but the ideology can be completely different. For example, when a person comes in with low back pain, the cause of that symptom may be primarily emotional, partially physical, and somewhat chemical. An A.K. practitioner will prioritize which one of the physicalities to focus on. Another person with the same complaints may be primarily structural with very little aspects of the other three. And yet another person's low back pain may be primarily chemical (hormonal, nutritional, or medicinal), and somewhat metaphysical with just a small amount of structural work necessary.
As a chiropractor, with certifications in applied kinesiology and acupuncture, I use muscle testing to help design treatment protocols that include all complementary therapies and traditional medical therapies. Treatment plans include nutrition, detoxification programs, acupuncture, soft tissue therapies, structural adjustment, emotional work or a proper medical referral. My main objective is to get the twinkle back into people's eyes and a bounce back in their steps.
Dr. Scott Rubin is a chiropractor, applied kinesiologist, and certified acupuncturist. His practice is located at The Center for Healing in St. Petersburg, Florida. (813) 895-4625.