The Dreadful Unwanted Muscle Spasm and one Researchers Story

Recently Mr. Dhaliwal presented to our office with left sided neck and upper back pain. Mr. Dhaliwal is a researcher who uses his computer quite a bit. He doesn't realize it but he when he types he keeps his shoulders up in a scrunched up manner and looks down at his keyboard at hours on end (doing research). He is also under a lot of stress at work to complete deadlines and this definitely does not help the situation. After a consultation and examination it was found that Mr. Dhaliwal was having muscle spasms of the neck and upper back muscles.
What exactly is a muscle spasm, you may ask? A Muscle Spams is an involuntary contraction of a muscle or a muscle group. It is often very painful. Many times a muscle spasm keeps a muscle's motor unit continuously firing. This motion of continuous flexion of the neck (looking down) can have a negative effect on the soft tissue and nerves of the neck and shoulder region. It is suggested to our patient that he take frequent breaks to stretch your neck as often as possible.
Without sufficient movement, over time, nerve supply flowing from the neck to the arms can be obstructed and lead to tingling or numbness in the arms and fingers and eventually, headaches. Just as there is a continuous flow between the fluids on a cellular level, there is also a certain natural flow, similar to electricity, within the nervous system. Whenever there is an obstruction of the nerve flow, the part of the body that is supplied by that nerve does not function at its fullest potential.
Because Mr. Dhaliwal is in acute pain today, one of the first things we do is use an ice pack for 10 minutes in the upper back and neck. We use a 9 x 16 tri-sectional ice pack because this will cover his upper back and neck area well.
We follow this up with the application of Biofreeze- a natural pain relieveing gel that works effectively on muscle spasms. Pressure is put on the upper trapezius as well as muscles of the neck with the Biofreeze similar to a deep tissue massage.
It is also suggested that Mr. Dhaliwal take more breaks during the day. The simple activity of standing up and walking can stimulate nerve flow and allow his muscles to relax. Simple stretches for the trapezius muscle are also suggested; To stretch the trapezius muscles you drop your arms to your sides and slowly rolling your shoulders in a circular motion. You can also gradually add light hand weights and gently raising the shoulders upwards towards your ears. This will allow the muscles to eventually become stronger. Strong muscles reinforce and support the joints, and the neck consists of many joints between the individual vertebrae. Mr. Dhaliwal agrees that this stretch is very simple, something he can incorporate into his day.

Finally, gentle cervical traction is also suggested. By placing a cervical roll or medium sized, rolled up towel under his neck, he can help relax the neck and shoulder muscles. Doing traction to his neck will support the cervical curve and increase the nerve and blood supply. Here is an example of a cervical roll: The Jackson Roll

Why is the C-Curve so Important In Your Neck?

X-rays are a very important tool for looking at your spine- When looking at a front view X-ray of your neck (cervical spine) and low back (lumbar spine), the spinal bones (vertebrae) must be straight up and down. The bones must not be rotated nor tilted and no curvatures (scoliosis) should be present.

The side view X-ray must reveal three 63-degree arcs- 3 "C" Curves. The most important arc is in the neck (cervical spine) and should range between 34 and 43 degrees between C1 and C7 (the first and last cervical vertebrae). This cervical arc is known as the “Arc of Life” because mental life impulses travel directly from the brain down this part of the spinal cord to bring life to the rest of the body. Losing your Arc of Life causes the most severe obstruction to the brain, spinal cord and nerves, also known as the Central Nervous System (CNS)

If your CNS is unhealthy, you cannot become truly healthy by exercising or eating right alone. You can be healthier, but you cannot be at “normal” or optimal. Any “abnormal” position of the spine, misalignment of the bones, or any changes in these curves indicate a serious problem. It is absolutely vital to understand this point--any changes from “normal” will interfere with and eventually damage the Central Nervous System. Interference and damage to the Central Nervous System will always result in “abnormal” function of the body, improper healing, and poor, abnormal, or less than optimal health.

“ … Posture affects and moderates every physiologic function from breathing to hormonal production.”

--C. Norman Shealy, MD, Roger K. Cady, MD, et al; APJM, 1994, Vol.4p. 36
Normal Neck Curve


When bones of the spine lose their normal position or motion, sensitive nerves and blood vessels to the head can be affected. When spinal nerves and related tissues are stretched or irritated they can symptoms such as headaches and neck pain. Aspirin and medication may cover up these warning signs, but do not correct the underlying structural cause. Many patients with neck pain have lost the normal forward curve in the neck. Ultimately, this can affect the brain stem and spinal cord.

Loss of Normal Neck Curve- Loss of Neck Curve: The MILITARY NECK

The perfect neck pillow for an airplane journey

This weekend we were travelling to Phoenix, Arizona. We were sitting on the airplane trying to catch a few minutes of sleep for the very long long journey. The older woman next to my husband kept drifting forward and to the left side (onto my husbands shoulder actually)- she awoke many times and looking very uncomfortable. This is typically what happens when he gets the middle seat. My husband is very nice person, and so he just shrugged his shoulders and let woman use him as a pillow. The smart travellers (the seasoned travellers- the ones who were the first to stand in the Southwest A line) I duly noted had this special U shaped pillow- they looked the most comfortable. I was looking on, quite envious wishing I had thought of bringing my travel pillow with me. Some people just think of everything !

And here we have the Travel Core Memory Foam Pillow- perfect for home or traveling on the airplane. The Viscoelastic foam responds to body heat and therefore better conform to the special shape of your particular head and neck. This neck pillow helps support your head and neck so you can relax. You can use with the lobes down for support while seated. Use with the lobes up or down for support while lying down. For me this pillow’s compact size makes it very easy to transport. Next time, I will pack and take my sleeping arranagements on the airplane a lot more seriously.

Neck Pain Relief...the Total Package

We often get emails and telephone calls from desperate customers who are having moderate to severe neck pain. Usually there is a handful of products that we will suggest. Products that can be used during the day, at work, at home and at night. In the last month, we have created our neck pain relief care package and it includes the following products, all from our website Arc4life.com. Here is what is included in this Neck Pain Relief Package. If you are interested in purchasing this package, just visit our website here: Arc4life's Total Neck Pain Relief Package

The Neck Pain Relief Package

Cervical Traction Neck Pillow
This is best selling neck pillow in our website. It will help you traction your neck while you sleep;
This pillow allows your neck to the be in the proper c-curve position while you are sleeping. We often say that the Cervical Traction Neck Pillow goes to work while you sleep.

Cervical Traction Posture Pump
The Cervical Traction Posture Pump carefully lifts and separates the neck and back joints in a unique way. Traction, hanging devices, massage units, vibrators, special pillows and regular exercise cannot. Special expanding air cells angled into the spine activate the "bellows or sponge-like" function of the discs, producing a warm, relaxed feeling through the neck and back. Patented up and down motion reinforces the spine's natural "c" curve shape and promotes joint lubrication, joint nutrition, flexibility and the correct posture. Cervical Traction POSTURE PUMP® 1000 is a huge breakthrough for those people who suffer from being in positions that are not comfortable. These uncomfortable postions cause muscle stiffness, tension and neck fatigue. These body positions force the spine out of its natural shape, causing abnormal joint movement and loss of joint lubrication. Particularly in the Cervical spine,which should have a "c" curve in it. When joints are dry, they wear unevenly, age faster and create stiffness and discomfort. Spending just minutes on the Cervical Traction POSTURE PUMP® 1000 allows you to shape and lubricate the neck and back.

Formula 303 Muscle Relaxer
Natural Relief For Muscle Spasm, Tension and Stress- HomeoPathic Formula for Muscle Spasm, Neck and Back Pain. Ingredients include Valerian Root, Magnesium and Passion Flower.

9x16 Ice/Heat Pack

This Hot and Cold Pack provides relief from strains, sprains, tendonitis and other injuries. Unique strapping system securely fastens anywhere on these hot and cold packs. The non-toxic gel is biodegradable and retains therapeutic temperatures longer. Soft, plush "frost-free" cover protects your skin. You can Store it in the freezer- it stays soft and pliable. Heat in microwave.

BioFreeze Natural Pain Relieving Gel- Cryotherapy
Biofreeze is a natural pain relieving gel that can be used anytime you have neck pain, stiffness or achiness. has an ingredient called Ilex (a South American holly scrub that was used by the Paraguay Indians) to help decrease pain Biofreeze is a type of cryotherapy that has been shown to help decrease the aches & pains of daily life.
Cryotherapy works by creating a cooling sensation that is transmitted through the nerve endings to the brain. It transmits at speeds faster than most pain sensations or warming sensations. Biofreeze allows blood to continue to flow to the area so that it can be naturally repaired.

May/June Newsletter Arc4life.com

ARC4LIFE – HEALTHY SLEEP HEALTHY LIFE
May/ June 2007
In This Issue

1. Article- Mild brain injuries linked to sleep disorders
   
2. Inspirational Quote
   
3. Inspirational Story
   
4. Featured Product on Arc4life.com- Cervical Traction Posture Pump 1000 with $5 dollar discount code attached

Hello everyone! Welcome to Arc4Life’s Healthy Sleep- the online newsletter to help you with neck or back pain, proper posture, and sleeping comfortably. Get health tips for how to reduce pain, sleep better, and maintain a healthy spine.

1. Article - Mild brain injuries linked to sleep disorders
   NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Experiencing a mild traumatic brain injury may increase the risk of developing a sleep disorder, and a good portion of these appear to be based on disturbances in the body's normal circadian rhythm, according to the results of a new study.
   "As many as 40 to 65 percent of patients with minor traumatic brain injury complain of insomnia," Dr. L. Ayalon, of the University of California, San Diego, and colleagues write in the medical journal Neurology.
   In a small study of patients with minor traumatic brain injury, who were also suffering from insomnia, Ayalon's team found that about one third of the patients had circadian rhythm sleep disorders.
   The researchers examined the physiologic and behavioral characteristics related to circadian rhythm in 42 patients who sustained mild traumatic brain injuries and were having problems with insomnia.
   Circadian rhythm sleep disorders are disturbances in the 24-hour sleep and wake cycle, which may be related to abnormalities in neurological mechanisms or triggered by changes in an individual's schedule.
   The subjects underwent a variety of tests, including melatonin and temperature measurements, and imaging tests. They were also evaluated overnight in a sleep laboratory and completed a questionnaire to determine the time of day they felt the most awake, or their "circadian preference."
   Fifteen of the 42 patients (36 percent) were diagnosed with a circadian rhythm sleep disorder. Eight subjects had a delayed sleep phase syndrome and seven had an irregular sleep-wake pattern.
   All eight patients with delayed sleep phase syndrome had a 24-hour regular temperature rhythm, but only four patients with irregular sleep-wake patterns displayed a similar daily rhythm.
   Patients in the irregular sleep-wake pattern group also had a smaller range of 24-hour temperature rhythm compared with those in the delayed sleep phase syndrome group. The authors note that the patients described their wake-sleep patterns that fit the clinical diagnosis they received. For example, the majority of patients diagnosed with delayed sleep phase syndrome rated themselves as "definitely an evening type," usually an indication of delayed sleep phase syndrome, Ayalon's team reports.
   Conversely, patients diagnosed with an irregular sleep-wake pattern tended to classify themselves as "neither evening nor morning type," which "is most compatible with the irregular sleep-wake pattern, which lacks a clear circadian rhythm of sleep-wake cycle."
   SOURCE: Neurology, April 2007.
   
   
   
2. Inspirational Quote
   
   “The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.”- e. e. cummings
   
   
3. Inspirational Story
   A Million Dollar Lesson by: Petey Parker, Heart At Work
   A cab driver taught me a million dollar lesson in customer satisfaction and expectation. Motivational speakers charge thousands of dollars to impart his kind of training to corporate executives and staff. It cost me a $12 taxi ride.
   I had flown into Dallas for the sole purpose of calling on a client. Time was of the essence and my plan included a quick turnaround trip from and back to the airport. A spotless cab pulled up. The driver rushed to open the passenger door for me and made sure I was comfortably seated before he closed the door. As he got in the driver's seat, he mentioned that the neatly folded Wall Street Journal next to me was for my use. He then showed me several tapes and asked me what type of music I would enjoy. Well! I looked around for a "Candid Camera!" Wouldn't you? I could not believe the service I was receiving! I took the opportunity to say, "Obviously you take great pride in your work. You must have a story to tell."
   "You bet," he replied, "I used to be in Corporate America. But I got tired of thinking my best would never be good enough. I decided to find my niche in life where I could feel proud of being the best I could be. I knew I would never be a rocket scientist, but I love driving cars, being of service and feeling like I have done a full day's work and done it well. I evaluate my personal assets and... wham! I became a cab driver. One thing I know for sure, to be good in my business I could simply just meet the expectations of my passengers. But, to be GREAT in my business, I have to EXCEED the customer's expectations! I like both the sound and the return of being 'great' better than just getting by on 'average'"
   Did I tip him big time? You bet! Corporate America's loss is the traveling folk's friend!
   
4. Featured Product - The Cervical Traction Posture Pump 1000
   
   
   
   Cervical Traction Posture Pump 1000
   
   How does the Cervical Traction Posture Pump 1000 WORK ?
   
   The Cervical Traction Posture Pump 1000carefully lifts and separates the neck and back joints in a unique way. Traction, hanging devices, massage units, vibrators, special pillows and regular exercise cannot. Special expanding air cells angled into the spine activate the "bellows or sponge-like" function of the discs, producing a warm, relaxed feeling through the neck and back. Patented up and down motion reinforces the spine's natural "c" curve shape and promotes joint lubrication, joint nutrition, flexibility and the correct posture.
   
   Who Does the Cervical Traction Posture Pump benefit ?
   Anyone who works on the computer for long periods. These people carry a forward Head Carriage which puts a lot of pressure on the cervical spine. It is the the most common cause of neck and upper back fatigue and tension. It is for anyone who drives a great deal and has to deal with the stress of driving for long periods. Also for anyone who is constantly in a Forward-Flexed Position. These foward flexed head postions force the natural curve out of the neck and promote poor posture. Side-Flexed Neck Positions also can cause stiffness and spasm. Especially when you fall asleep on the couch. Finally for any person who spends a lot of time on the telephone.
   
   
   Read more about the Cervical Traction Posture pump by Clicking here
   
   
   Special Discount: $5.00 use code: 5offPP (expires June 15th, 2007). Go to Arc4life to order your Cervical Traction Posture Pump 1000 today
   

"I first used the posture pump at a chiropractic office. I onlylused it 2 times per week and noticed an improvement in my posture. My head was more in line with my body instead of being forward. As a physical therapist, I think this pump is a good way to restore the normal curve we should have in our necks. I have used it with one patient at my office so far who had significant decrease in pain"

Jodee, 2/18/2007

That's all for this month's newsletter
Sleep Tight!
Dr. Matt
Arc4life.com
Email us at Arc4life.com

April 2007 Newletter Arc4life

ARC4LIFE – HEALTHY SLEEP HEALTHY LIFE
In This Issue

1. Article- 5 Tips for Better Sleep
   
2. Inspirational Quote
   
3. Inspirational Story
   
4. Featured Product on Arc4life.com- Pronex Pneumatic Cervical Traction Unit with $15 dollar discount code attached

Hello everyone! This is the 2nd edition of Arc4Life’s Healthy Sleep, the online newsletter to help you with neck or back pain, proper posture, and sleeping comfortably. Get health tips for how to reduce pain, sleep better, and maintain a healthy spine.

1. Article - 5 Tips For Better Sleep
   Good, sound sleep means you wake up feeling well rested and refreshed. However, if your nights are filled with frustration and mornings with fatigue, and you’ve checked yourself for the usual culprits like downing 7pm espresso shots or using your bed as a home office, here are some less obvious insomnia-inducing habits that just may be the source. Since these things happen while you’re off in slumberland, they may not be the first to come to mind, but they can cause both sleep and health troubles.
   
   
   
   • Gerd
     Bedtime milk and cookies sounds like the perfect way to wind down before hitting the sack. But that soothing ritual might be costing you more than a few extra calories. When Oprah tells us she doesn’t dare touch food after 8pm, she’s doing it for weight loss reasons. But even if you’re not a dieting diva, eating late is never a good idea. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, if you’re eating a large meal before bedtime, the digestion process can get in the way of your good night’s sleep. Besides disrupting your REM time, you may also be contributing to a more serious condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This occurs when food is pushed back up into the esophagus via stomach acids, causing a burning sensation and sometimes choking and coughing.
     
     Remedy: Do not eat a large meal or snack within two to three hours of bedtime. If this is unavoidable, plan ahead and satisfy your appetite earlier in the evening so all you’ll need is a light snack before going to bed. If you do conk out after your gorge session, be sure to elevate your head with pillows.
     
     
   • Electrical Stimulation in the Bedroom
     Everyone likes a little bedroom stimulation now and again, but just be sure those sparks are coming from your partner or spouse, and not from a love affair with technological gadgetry. Are you unwittingly charging your room with electrical current? The average home is filled with electromagnetic interference, as it is generated from every electric appliance. According to theories in quantum physics, electrical charges fill our air and can disturb sleep. Whether you’re an avid tech junkie or just the average consumer, you likely have a TV, radio, CD player, portable phone and perhaps even a computer, printer, scanner and fax all within your compact sleep space. These pieces of electronic equipment - particularly the TV and computer screen - give off high levels of electromagnetic energy even long after they’re turned off. You’re literally jamming up your air with electronic waves.
     
     
   • Remedy: Turn off the electricity. Zero is the best number of electronic equipment to have in your bedroom; however, you can cover both your TV and computer screens with fabric before retiring and place a medium-to-large-size plant in your room for every piece of electrical equipment. Palms, peace lilies and spider plants are said to absorb the most electrical current. Digitally displayed alarm clocks emit a high amount of EMI, and should not be kept close to your head. Put them on the other side of your room or switch to a nondigital clock.
     
     
   • Are You a Stomach Sleeper?
     Get in touch with your inner child while you sleep. According to researchers, the best sleeping positions that put the least stress on your joints and organs are on your back or in the semifetal position, where you lay on one side with knees slightly bent, one arm outstretched above the head, the other resting comfortably on the opposing upper arm to cradle the head. Both give your spine and body proper alignment.
     However, if your preferred sleep position is on your stomach, you may be asking for trouble. You’ll spend many hundreds of hours smashing your delicate facial skin into a pillow, which helps produce wrinkles, sagging and puffiness, not to mention trauma to your neck, spine and lower back.
     Remedy:Change sleep positions. Sleep doctors suggest adhering two tennis balls to your stomach so whenever you try and switch to the old tummy routine, you’ll automatically reposition yourself.
     
   • Increased Blood Cortisol Levels
     The highly publicized study that linked lack of sleep with extra weight is accurate on one side of the equation. The study does not suggest getting more sleep will help you lose weight. It says if you’re not getting enough sleep, you’ll feel less equipped to handle stress and your intricate hormonal system will react, increasing stress hormones like cortisol. Higher blood cortisol negatively affects your sleep patterns in a round-robin effect. Numerous studies also show that increased cortisol levels both increase appetite - particularly for sugar and starchy carbohydrates - as well as promote stubborn belly fat. If that’s not enough to want to keep them in check, recent studies also indicate a direct correlation between elevated cortisol levels and high blood pressure, diabetes and a decreased resistance to infection.
     Remedy: Put in plenty of pillow time. Get yourself to bed at a reasonable hour so that you’re not dreading the sound of the alarm clock come morning. Figure out how many hours of sleep your body operates best with, and once you start getting that magic number, your hormones will readjust and both your sleep and weight will normalize.
     
   • Sleep Apnea, RLS (Restless Leg Syndrome) and PLMD
     People tend to think that sleep problems are a part of life, and don’t often think to discuss them with their doctor. But there are certain medical conditions that could be interfering with your sleep, and, since they happen during sleep, they will most often escape your notice.
     Snoring isn’t always just a nuisance. It could be a sign of a larger problem. According to the Sleep Research Society, sleep apnea occurs when airflow to the lungs is briefly blocked, most often in the throat, in repeated episodes of gasping, sometimes up to 50 times an hour. Snorting and gasping are the telltale signs. Obesity; the use of nicotine, alcohol or sedatives; hypothyroidism; sleeping on one’s back; and excessive airway tissue are key factors. Sleep apnea can be dangerous to your health, so if you suspect your snoring may be sleep apnea, contact a doctor.
     
     Restless legs syndrome (RLS) sends odd, uncomfortable sensations deep within the leg muscles and knees, creating forceful urges to move, particularly at night. Sufferers may jerk themselves awake with leg spasms or kicking movements, preventing a restful night’s sleep. Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) centers in the lower limbs and consists of spasms that can occur up to hundreds of times a night. The telltale signs of PLMD are crumpled bedcovers at the foot of the bed, along with kicking and jerking during sleep and unknowingly awakening many times during the night.
     
     Remedy: If you suspect you might have any of the above sleep disorders, discuss them with your doctor as soon as possible. He or she can recommend a treatment to help get you back on the track to well-restedness.
     
   
   
2. Inspirational Quote
   
   “Look to your health; and if you have it, praise God and value it next to conscience; for health is the second blessing that we mortals are capable of, a blessing money can't buy.”- Izaak Walton
   
   
3. Inspirational Story
   This month’s inspirational story is actually the story of Christopher Gardner. Many may not know who he is. He is the subject of the movie “The Pursuit of Happiness” starring Will Smith”. If you have not watched I definitely recommend this title.
   
   Christopher Gardner is the owner and CEO of Christopher Gardner International Holdings with offices in New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. Surmounting acute obstacles on his road to success, Gardner is an avid motivational speaker, addressing the keys to self-empowerment, beating odds, and breaking cycles. Gardner is also a passionate philanthropist committed to many charitable organizations.
   
   The amazing story of Gardner’s life was published as an autobiography, The Pursuit of Happyness, (Amistad/Harper Collins) on May 23, 2006, and became a New York Times and Washington Post #1 bestseller. Gardner is also the inspiration for the movie The Pursuit of Happyness released by Columbia Pictures on December 15, 2006. The movie was #1 at the box office its opening weekend. Will Smith stars as Gardner and received Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild and Academy Award nominations for his performance. Gardner is an associate producer on the movie.
   
   Always hard working and tenacious, a series of circumstances in the early 1980’s left Gardner homeless in San Francisco and the sole guardian of his toddler son. Unwilling to give up Chris Jr. or his dream of financial independence, Gardner started at the bottom. Without connections or a college degree, he earned a spot in the Dean Witter Reynolds training program. Often spending his nights in a church shelter or the bathroom at a Bay Area Rapid Transit station in Oakland, Gardner was the sole trainee offered a job at Dean Witter Reynolds in 1981. He spent 1983-1987 at Bear Stearns & Co., where he became a top earner, and then in 1987, he founded the brokerage firm Gardner Rich & Co. in Chicago.
   
   Born February 9, 1954 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Gardner never knew his father. He lived with his mother, Bettye Jean Gardner, whom he adored, and, when necessary, in foster homes. Despite a life of hardship and emotional scarring, his mother provided him with strong “spiritual genetics” and taught him some of the greatest lessons of his life, which he follows to this day. Bettye Jean convinced him that in spite of where he came from, he could attain whatever goals he set for himself by saying, “If you want to, one day you could make a million dollars.” Gardner believed this to be fact, and knew he would have to find a career he could be passionate about, and one that would allow him to “be world-class at something.”
   
   Straight out of high school, Gardner enlisted in the Navy, just like his uncles, his role models, had done. After the military, Gardner went to San Francisco and took a job as a medical supply salesman. Then he reached a turning point in his life. In a parking lot, he met a man driving a red Ferrari. "He was looking for a parking space. I said, 'You can have mine, but I gotta ask you two questions.' The two questions were: What do you do? And how do you do that? Turns out this guy was a stockbroker and he was making $80,000 a month."
   
   That pivotal encounter gave Gardner a clear career goal and he began knocking on doors, applying for training programs at brokerages even though it meant he would have to live on next to nothing while he learned. When he was finally accepted into a program, he left his job in medical sales. But his plans collapsed when the man who offered him the training slot was fired, and Gardner had no job to go back to. Then he was put in jail for $1,200 in parking violations he couldn't pay. Chris Jr.’s mother left and Gardner, despite his circumstances, fought to keep his son because, as he says, "I made up my mind as a young kid that when I had children they were going to know who their father is, and that he isn’t going anywhere."
   
   Finally managing to enter the training program at Dean Witter Reynolds, Gardner’s meager stipend as a trainee meant he, like so many working poor in America, had a job but couldn't make ends meet. Chris’s co-workers never knew he spent his evenings trying to arrange day care, find food and a safe place for him and his son to sleep. After spending nights in a locked bathroom at an Oakland subway station, Gardner persuaded Rev. Cecil Williams, founder of a new shelter program for homeless women at Glide Memorial United Methodist Church, to let him and Chris Jr. stay at the shelter.
   
   Gardner passed his licensing exam in 1981on the first try. He arrived early, stayed late and worked the phones day after day to lure new clients. He and Chris Jr. got an apartment, and in 1983 he joined Bear, Stearns & Company. After becoming a top producer, first in San Francisco and later in New York, Gardner left in 1987 to establish Gardner Rich & Company, Inc., an institutional brokerage firm specializing in the execution of debt, equity and derivative products transactions for some of the nations largest institutions, public pension plans and unions. The company has expanded into Christopher Gardner International Holdings and now has a business project underway in South Africa.
   
   Gardner reaches out to many programs serving the homeless, donating time, assistance, and funds. Foremost among these are the Glide United Methodist Church in San Francisco and The Cara Program in Chicago. At Glide, Gardner assists with fundraising, donates clothes and shoes, and speaks at services and events. He is also involved in a plan to revitalize and provide new housing in the neighborhood around Glide. At Cara, which assists the homeless and at-risk populations in Chicago with comprehensive job training and placement, Gardner speaks at counseling sessions, assists with permanent job placement, and also donates clothing and shoes.
   
   Gardner serves as a board member of the National Fatherhood Initiative, whose mission is to improve the well-being of children by increasing the proportion of children growing up with involved, responsible, and committed fathers. Gardner was the recipient of the group’s Father of the Year Award in 2002.
   
   Gardner is particularly committed to educational organizations. He serves on the board of the National Education Foundation and sponsors two annual awards: the National Education Association’s National Educational Support Personnel Award and the American Federation of Teachers’ Paraprofessionals and School-Related Personnel (PSRP) Award. He is also involved with the Chicago Teachers’ Union, sponsoring activities and outings for Chicago public school kids.
   
   In addition to the father of the Year Award, Gardner has also been honored by the Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women (LACAAW) with the 25th Annual Humanitarian Award, and by the Continental Africa Chamber of Commerce with the 2006 Friends of Africa Award.
   
   Chris Gardner’s remarkable story of struggle, faith, entrepreneurialism, and fatherly devotion has catapulted him beyond the notoriety he has found on Wall Street. He has been featured on the “Evening News with Dan Rather,” “20/20,” “Oprah,” “Today Show,” “The View,” “Entertainment Tonight,” CNN, CNBC, Fox News Channel as well as being the subject of profiles in numerous newspapers and magazines including People, USA Today, Associated Press, New York Times, Fortune, Jet, Reader’s Digest, Trader Monthly, Chicago Tribune, San Francisco Chronicle, The New York Post and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He is also a highly sought-after speaker.
   
   
4. Featured Product - The Pronex Pneumatic Cervical Traction Unit
   The Pronex Pneumatic Cervical Traction unit is special because it cradles the reclining patient's head and neck on two soft foam cushions. One cushion supports the occiput (base of the head) and the other rests against the upper trapezius (upper shoulder area). An air-inflated bellows between them and provides more than 20 lbs of continuously adjustable traction. As the bellows expands, it lifts the head upward supporting the cervical curve and maintaining an even distraction (stretch) in the anterior (front) and posterior (back) cervical discs. Patients have total control over the amount of traction applied. Squeezing an inflator bulb increases the pressure, a release knob gently reduces it. There's no strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
   The Pronex Cervical traction is user friendly and without restraints. It is portable, comfortable and convenient. This traction device requires no assembly, no weights, no cables, no springs or levers. It's simply restraint free. It encourages regular use by patients at home, helping in breaking the chronic pain cycle.
   The special design of the Pronex Pneumatic Cervical traction unit gives anatomically correct traction. This cervical traction device supports the natural curve of the cervical spine (c-curve) and provides an even distraction in the anterior (front) and posterior (back) cervical discs.
   
   Special Discount: $15.00 use code: 15offPronex (expires April 30th, 2007). Go to Arc4life to order your Pronex Pneumatic Traction Unit.
   

That's all for this month's newsletter
Sleep Tight!
Dr. Matt
Arc4life.com
Email us at Arc4life.com

March 2007 Newsletter Arc4life

ARC4LIFE – HEALTHY SLEEP HEALTHY LIFE



In This Issue

1. Article - All the different pillow choices!
   
2. Inspirational quote
   
3. Inspirational story
   
4. Featured product- Cervical Traction Neck Pillow- with $5 dollar discount code attached
   
5. Posture Tip of the Month
   

Welcome to the 1st edition of Arc4Life’s Healthy Sleep Healthy Life, the online newsletter to help you with neck or back pain, proper posture, and sleeping comfortably. Get health tips for how to reduce pain, sleep better, and maintain a healthy spine.

1. All the Different Pillow Choices
   
   Rest and sleep are the body's chance to heal itself from the postural, physical and nervous insults of the previous day. The use of some of the following pillows can improve the quality of rest and repair, allowing one to wake up more rested and ready to face another day.
   
   Pillow choice should be based on personal preference
   
   It is important to note that not all pillows work well for everyone. A short trial of one week to two weeks should be enough time to decide whether or not the pillow is providing benefit.
   Knee pillows. Using a traditional (mattress top) pillow either between the knees (when sleeping on the side) or below the knees (when sleeping on the back) is important to alleviate strain on the lower back.
   
   
   
   • When sleeping on the side, bending the knees and placing a pillow between the knees prevents the knees from coming together and keeps the spine in the neutral position. When there is no support between the legs, the upper leg rotates downward, pulling the pelvis, and distorting the natural line of the spine. Adding support between the knees can prevent back pain induced by these types of forces and allow the back to heal and more properly rest while sleeping.
     Usually, a firm pillow between the knees works better than a softer pillow because it serves somewhat as a kickstand to keep the upper leg from rotating over the lower leg.
     
   • When sleeping on the back, placing a pillow underneath the back of the knees helps reduce the load on the lower back. Some people even prefer to have two pillows to elevate their knees higher. With two or more pillows underneath the knees, the lumbar spine is flattened, putting less force on the pain sensitive facet joints of the spine. Check out the Jackson Roll for placing under your knees- a very versatile pillow that can be used for the neck as well. This position is the best overall to help the back rest comfortably, and many people find that this is the only way they can sleep during an acute phase of back pain or while recovering from spine surgery.
     
     
   
   
   Body pillows. A pillow that is as long as the body can serve several functions for people who prefer to sleep on their side, as the top portion can be used to support the head and neck, while the bottom portion supports the knees and legs. Some people find this more comfortable than using separate pillows for the head and knees. In particular, women who are pregnant may find that a body pillow that provides added support for the abdominal area helps them rest comfortably. Throwing the top leg over the body pillow while side sleeping should be avoided, as this places torque (twisting force) on the lower thoracic and lumbar spine.
   
   Neck pillows. A pillow that is contoured to fill the spaces under the head and neck can be helpful for people with neck pain. Also called cervical pillows or orthopedic pillows, this type of pillow has a deeper depression where the head lies, and extra support under the neck. People with neck pain may favor these pillows, as they fill the hollow space created by the neck and help keep the neck in alignment with the spine. Some orthopedic pillows tend to wear out after one or two years and may need replacing.
   
   Travel pillows. A "U" shaped pillow that is curved to fit snuggly around the neck can be used for sleeping or supporting the head when in a seated position. This type of pillow prevents the head from bending too far to one side or the other. It also creates a support so that the weight of the head is partially taken care of by the pillow. This relieves some of the work done by the muscles keeping the head up and may be beneficial while sleeping in a sitting position, such as in an airplane or in a car. Check out the Linear Gravity Neck Pillow. Perfect for travel. The Great thing about the Linear Gravity Neck Pillow is that it comes in 3 sizes: small, medium and large.
   
   Lower back support pillows. A lower back support pillow helps provide support for the inward curve in the lumbar spine. Sitting for extended periods of time without any lower back support can create muscle tension and pain in the lower back and legs (e.g. sciatica). Used when in a seated position, a lumbar support pillow fills the natural gap that is created between the lower spine and the chair.
   Lumbar back support is also helpful when sitting in a car. When the lumbar curve is supported, the downward forces of gravity and driving are absorbed much like a coiled spring, as opposed to a non-supported straight or slouched lumbar spine. The Slimrest Low Back Support provides the low back support that you need when sitting for prolonged periods of time.
   
   Donut pillows. As the name implies, this is a donut-shaped pillow that is placed on the seat portion of a chair. With either a depression or a hole in the center of the pillow, one can sit with much less pressure in the coccyx region (the tailbone). People who have suffered a broken or bruised tailbone or have coccygeal pain (such as coccydynia) may need this type of pillow in order to sit without pain.
   Summary of pillow support and comfort
   
   
   Use of a variety of pillows for both comfort and support can make a big difference in alleviating or avoiding back pain or neck pain and getting a good night’s sleep. For people with spinal disorders, the right type of support can be especially important in helping the spine rest comfortably.
   For example, most down or feather pillows offer very little structural support compared to pillows filled with firmer materials. People who suffer from moderate or severe spinal disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, myofascial pain, or trauma often seem to experience a more restful night’s sleep with a firmer pillow. Pillows filled with grain or buckwheat hulls are often effective for people with any of the above-mentioned conditions.
   
   By: John Schubbe, DC
   
   
   
   
   
2. “The question should be, is it worth trying to do, not can it be done”. Allard Lowenstein
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Inspirational Story of the Month
   
   
   Two young frogs fell into a bucket of milk. Both tried to jump to freedom, but the sides of the bucket were steep and no foundation was to be had on the surface of the liquid.
   Seeing little chance of escape, the first frog soon despaired and stopped jumping. After a short while he sunk to the bottom of the bucket and drowned.
   The second frog also saw no likelihood of success, but he never stopped trying. Even though each jump seemed to reach the same inadequate height, he kept on struggling. Eventually, his persistent efforts churned some milk into butter. From the now hardened surface of the milk, he managed to leap out of the bucket.
   The moral of this little inspiring story:
   Those who don't give up and persevere may be in for a pleasant surprise!
   
   
   
4. Featured Product - The Cervical Traction Neck Pillow
   
   On Sale 5 dollars off until April 2, 2007, use discount code: 5offCLT
   
   
   
   
   
   • Experience Deep Sound Sleep because your body relaxes.
     
     
   • Breathe easier and reduce snoring because your air passage is unrestricted. Snoring is often caused By restricted Air Passages of the Throat
     
     
   • Enhance Circulation because blood flows better through relaxed muscles.
     
     
   • Enjoy Better Posture because your cervical spine is aligned in a natural way.
     
     
   • Fall asleep naturally without drugs and medication Simply lie down and reap the rewards of these scientifically designed neck pillows.
     
     
   • Get Better Quality Sleep with our neck pillow because you be up all night tossing and turning !
     
     
   • No allergic reactions with our neck pillows: No Foam Rubber, Latex, Memory Foam, Animal Products, Seeds or Bird Feathers in our Cervical traction neck pillow; Made with Soft Non-Allergenic Polyester Fiberfill
     
     
     
     Here is what our customers and patients are saying about the Cervical Traction Neck Pillow:
     
     "Good transaction. The pillow really helps with my neck pain."
     helmkep , 3/14/2007
     
     "Fast efficient and GREAT!!!AAAA++++++"
     berzarc , 2/8/2007
     
     
     
     "I have a herniated disk in my neck and this is the first pillow I have slept comfortably with. I love it!"
     C.L, 2/3/2007
     
     
     
     "this pillow is a gem. took a while to get used to though"
     Heidi.M 2/3/2007
     
     
     
     "Great product. Does what they claim. No neck pain anymore. Excellent!"
     W.W 1/9/2007
     
     
     
   
   
5. Posture Tip of the Month
   
   Posture is a window to the spine.
   
   Forward head posture is the most common postural misalignments and is a hint that one’s neck or cervical spine is shifted forward and may have lost the normal curvature that should be there.
   
   
   Have a friend or loved one look at your posture from the side. The middle of the ear should line up with your shoulder. If the ear is forward of the shoulder you may suffer from misalignment. More on this in your next newsletter Posture Tip…
   
   
   

That's all for this month's newsletter
Sleep Tight!

Arc4life

Email Arc4life.com
Go to our website: www.arc4life.com