Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Health Tech Test Drive: Reaction Reviews & Imaging Scans of 'Meditational Device'

Disclaimer: "MEDTECH REVIEWS" is a publishing program presenting a non-commercial, non-official user review of portable health-related technologies on the market.  Our reviews are not intended as a marketing program for any device(s) featured in this article or video for evaluation. It is not a replacement for an official medical device review process for regulatory standards. This presentation is for informational use only and does not offer any direct medical claims whatsoever. Statements from all contributing speakers herein are expressing their own personal unscripted views as ANECDOTAL and they do not reflect those of our producers/publishers.  Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

EVALUATION OVERVIEW: MULTI-MODALITY DEVICE TEST DRIVE / USER REACTIONS & IMAGING SCANS
Level 1 & 2 Case Study: Physiological Effects & Ultrasound Imaging

8/1/2022- This device reviewed shall undergo a Level 1 study (observational evaluation, biometric analysis from clinical imaging) of a device promoted as a portable relaxation and wearable meditation technology.  Commercially branded as BrainTap®, the device is designed to “address high stress, difficulty sleeping, low energy, and other lifestyle challenges”. By this, our evaluation partnership between members of IPHA (Integrative Pain Healers Alliance) and the Bard Diagnostic Imaging Center (NYC) joined to test drive/demo this and other technologies under a multi-modality review project as outlined below.

a. Evaluation on meditation effects on the body
b. Assessment and comments on the device's components (as stated in its user literature)
- binaural beats, isochronic tones, holographic music
- red and blue light / frequency therapy
c. Evaluation of the theories behind the device's design. Discussion on the variety of ways of boosting brain levels of serotonin, beta-endorphins and norepinephrine (as per the mentions of this device in social media, from other users blogs, literature and videos)

2) BEFORE & AFTER STUDY: To evaluate the effects of said device, Dr. Robert Bard co-designed the study strategy behind this Phase 1 review with evaluators including Jessica Glynn, LCSW.  The review is an academic exercise in workflow analysis, comprised of a 9-point review from  an unofficial personal study (not to be confused with a clinical trial or medical review), this report explains the possible means of gathering data averages from a limited number of subjects using medical-grade diagnostic modalities.  The logic behind this review dictates collecting a BEFORE AND AFTER of scans and vitals for comparison, possibly linking  the user's reaction(s) to the device.

* BEFORE (BASELINE) studies include:

a. Preliminary exam of the subject's VITAL SIGNS: Recording includes: BLOOD PRESSURE, BODY TEMPERATURE, HEART RATE AND BLOOD/OXYGEN SATURATION.  These are identified to show reactive effects when they body is placed in a meditative state.

b. Ultrasound scan of the BASILAR ARTERY located in the back of the head/brain. This blood vessel supplies oxygen-rich blood to areas of the brain and the autonomic/central nervous system.

c. Ultrasound scan of the EYE/RETINA, specifically to study the optic nerve to show the paucity of the vessels in the central retinal artery and choroidal vessels.

d. Ultrasound scan of the TEMPORAL ARTERY located just anterior to the ear, and is a guideline that is used by most practitioners to examine blood flow. This offers blood flow and blood velocity to the brain, but it also measures the cardiac cycle as well. Identifying the heart rate or the pulse also shows that the extracranial blood flow is intact as it goes towards the eye. 

e. Ultrasound scan of the RADIAL ARTERY located along the forearm and accessible just proximal to the wrist:  For non-radiologists using standard ultrasound or even pulse pressure with their fingers to measure the pulse, we have a way of quantifying the blood flow in major peripheral blood vessels.  

f. Subject Interview/Survey: After the full exposure to the effects of binaural beats, the patient will provide any and all observed physical sensations and overall emotional changes that the meditational device experience may induce during the study.

 *** AFTER SCANS: repeat steps A-E


3) THEORIES AND OBJECTIVES: Report aims to identify any/all biometrics recorded through the use of standard medical equipment + then record AFTER effects of the relaxation device.  The noninvasive diagnostic tools used in this study are selected based on their anticipated ability to collect physiological data while offering a comparative assessment of any therapeutics or response from outside stimulation.  

4) SELECTED AREAS SCANNED WITH ULTRASOUND: Autoregulation of the  circulatory system is controlled by several homeostatic mechanisms including the autonomic nervous system, which is believed to be a mechanism by which meditation alters cardiovascular function. As such, evaluating blood vessel flow and function aligns with studying the body’s effects under a meditative state.  According to Dr. Robert Bard, the areas of the body scanned with ultrasound are key areas that have the highest probability of response and reaction from a device that claims to promote bringing the subject into a meditative state.  The chosen target scan areas (Basilar Artery, Eye/Optic Nerve, Temporal Artery and Radial Artery) are identified as key zones for hemodynamic study, showing the most effective areas for studying blood flow. 


CASE STUDY #1- DIRECT OBSERVATIONAL

By: Jessica Connell, LCSW / Evaluation partner 1 (Conducted product test drive part 1)

Jessica Connell is one of the evaluating partners at MEDTECH REVIEWS/ brain health division. She is IPHA's chief mental health advisor, an LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) and is the CEO of a psychotherapy and coaching practice (Confident Minds, LLC). 

"As a therapist, the most important thing is to dig deeper for the thoughts that affect my clients’ behaviors.  I opted to evaluate a device like this because of its intended design to bring the user into a relaxed and a guided meditative state. To review its components of slowing down any levels of anxiety is important to being able to do my type of work. Working with Dr. Bard's scanning technologies is a remarkable way to identify physiological response and effects of any treatment solution. His assessment helps us recognize what this type of technology is doing to us on that clinical stage. This is important because devices is a consumer product that promotes self-care without any medical intervention. In the case of this device review, we want to know how this is helping actually us- our brain, our circulation and our neurological system. Exploration of this device alongside our testing team brings great confidence in its safety as well as its intended effects."

LINK: See Jessica Connell's complete review on the BrainTap® experience.


DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING REPORT: by: Dr. Robert L. Bard

Since inception, the acceptance of non-invasive imaging for surgical guidance,  monitoring pathology or screening has been a game-changer in just about every area of medicine.  Dr. Robert L. Bard (cancer radiologist and diagnostic imaging specialist) co-founded and publishes a non-commercial program undergoing performance reviews of select technologies called "MedTech Reviews" under the JOURNAL FOR MODERN HEALING. This is a public newsletter where he  shares his clinical expertise in diagnostic interpretation / analyses. He provides this review to both the general public and the medical community as part of an educational initiative to encourage beta testing, strategic efficacy review protocols and the value of analytical confirmation, second opinions and use of non-invasive imaging. His 'Tech Reviews' reports on the immediate physiological effects of any medical/health related device (either validating or confirming its intended effects) with ultrasound and other non-invasive scanning methods. All results are based on a BEFORE-AND-AFTER visual comparison and a clinical interpretive description of the imaging graphic - thus aiming to show the body's potential reaction to that device (if any) by virtue of an after-treatment applied scan.

1. BASILAR ARTERY SCAN: The scan of the BASILAR AREA (in the back of the head) requires a transcranial Doppler probe using 125 MHz frequency to investigate the optic tract.  This is associated with the vision in the back of the brain and is imaged through the Foramen Magnum- which is the opening at the base of the skull that enables visualization of the posterior area of the brain.

The depth of penetration is 5cm, and we notice at 3cm, there's a blue color with a short left arm that's red and a larger right arm that is orange. The short colored arms are the left and right vertebral artery, which are flowing towards the transducer, which is why they are a red color, meaning forward flow. The blue is the midline Basilar artery, which supplies the entire posterior cerebral circulation and is blue colored because the blood flow is going away from the examining probe.

The theory behind scanning this area shows that the visual center of the brain can be imaged in its vascular perfusion and blood velocity flow with the standard transcranial Doppler technologies.  Also, ultrasound of the posterior fossa is important because the Basilar artery or Basler venous system (also in the back) are a cause of acute stroke and mental confusion when they are involved. So the ability to image these structures in minutes gives you a quick stroke protocol to rule out a certain type of insufficiency syndrome that causes either paralysis or massive confusion and is curable in minutes. If the source is correctly identified in a timely manner.


2. OPTICAL SCAN
 (Scan Fig 2A): Retinal Scan- BEFORE (Scanner 1: Zonare) This is a high resolution, 20 MHz scan of the retina, the optic nerve and the feeding arteries and veins. The white back of the image shows a tube-like dark structure, which is the optic nerve. Within the optic nerve is a central blue colored vessel that is the central retinal artery. On these sides surrounding it are the choroidal arteries, which form a semicircle around the posterior retina. On the left image, some of those blood vessels image the short posterior ciliary arteries, which are amongst the smallest in the body and the most susceptible to disease in certain neurologic or degenerative diseases. This means we have a way of measuring not only blood flow to the eyes such as in stroke or hemorrhage, but also predict the effect of high blood pressure or sickle cell disease or severe neurodegenerative disease like multiple sclerosis or ALS by imaging the impact and change on the extremely sensitive and very tiny posterior choroidal vasculature.

* EYE SCAN BEFORE  (Scan Fig 2B): The importance of doing the high resolution retinal image is because this standard anterior transcranial Doppler scan shows the paucity of the vessels in the central retinal artery and choroidal vessels. We basically see a few low intensity arteries which are measured quantitatively in the bottom graph, showing a red line, which goes up to 25 cm/sec - as a baseline measurement.  This is a retinal scan away from the optic disc or center of the eye showing that the perfusion in the choroidal vessels is symmetric without evidence of aneurysm or hypertension or stroke. Hence, we are confirming what the ophthalmologist sees when he dilates the eye to look for the hypertensive changes of atherosclerosis in the retinal arteries or micro aneurysms and micro hemorrhages from diabetes. This way, if somebody has visual problems related to a neurodegenerative disease, which is not high blood pressure or unrelated to diabetes, we have a way of ruling those serious medical complications as a rule out. Moreover, it is less likely to be high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes that's causing the degeneration and more likely to be a progressive disease like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease.

* EYE SCAN AFTER (Fig 2C): The use of the brain tap stimulation technology, the effect in the anterior orbit retinal and optic nerve vessels appears to show gross evidence of a profusion of greater arterial and venous flows.  This is accompanied by some dilatation of the central ophthalmic artery, as well as the short posterior ciliary arterial system. We used the standard transcranial Doppler probe which sees a few increase in the retinal vessels. This is very minimal compared to the focused high resolution and magnified retinal imaging at a much higher frequency.  Compared to the BASE LINE SCANS (pre-treatment examination) where the average blood flow was approximately 10 to 15 cm/sec, in this case, post stimulation of the autonomic nervous system has resulted in a recognizable increase in flow of (avg) 26 cm/sec.  As the treatment on the autonomic nervous system proceeds, the pulse rate and blood flow (velocity) is expected to decline because of the decreased arterial and venous resistance. So the fact that the arteries are less stressed or less constricted means that you'll have more blood flow into a region that's treated with a foreign influence, or a diseased area of the body.

On a side note about eye-safety evaluations of ultrasound use, the latest 2022 publication on eye safety and ultrasound, the use of approved Doppler ultrasound instruments is within the safety guidelines of the American Institute of ultrasound in medicine and the American radiologic society. Hence, This is a safe procedure with the modern technology used for eye scanning and commercial ultrasound units today.


3. TEMPORAL ARTERY SCAN

* BEFORE: The previous images were of the intra-orbital, which is part of the anterior intracranial circulation. Now in the extracranial circulation, which comes from the carotid artery system (which feeds both the internal and external systems), the superficial temporal artery, just anterior to the ear is a guideline that is used by most practitioners to examine blood flow. Hence, this is the pulse that you can feel with the finger used to measure biofeedback effects is measured with the doppler spectral blood flow on the chart, showing you a peak systolic velocity of 11.71 cm/sec. This gives you not only the blood flow and blood velocity, but it also measures the cardiac cycle as well. Identifying the heart rate or the pulse also shows that the extracranial blood flow is intact as it goes towards the eye. This is a frequent area of inflammatory disease or arteritis, which is plaguing the older population in migraine headaches and in diseases like temporal arteritis, which causes visual loss and severe headaches.

Temporal arteritis causing non-specific eye symptoms or headaches has been characteristically diagnosed by first CT and MRI, and then by biopsy.  The resolution of the ultrasound systems we use today is sufficient to show the arteritis as a soft tissue mass in circling and constricting the temporal artery causing both the pain spasm and erratic blood flow to the eye. In many countries today, the absence of a ring sign constricting the temporal artery is proof positive that a biopsy (where you cut part of the temporal artery out) is unnecessary. Hence, we're using this instead of microscopy and instead of surgery, and instead, we are imaging the whole pathology if present with the new high resolution ultrasound techniques.

* AFTER - Note: This process indicates significant and measurable response in blood flow.  A standard resolution probe should suffice to identify effect or reaction. 

Comparing from the baseline temporal scan (11 cm/sec during pretreatment), the quantifiable blood flow peak velocity after treatment has increased to over 15 cm/sec. This identifies recognizable impact of the energy treatment on the relaxation of the arterial system to increase flow. This is a biofeedback effect causing the stress in the arterial system to relax, thus measurably and quantitatively slowing the pulse and increasing the blood flow at the same time. This is also an area where clinicians and natural healers with alternative treatments use to measure the pulse. This gives you a visual and quantifiable look at what the treatment is actually doing (to the body).  Instead of a pressure on the pulse, which is hardly measurable from 11-15 cm/sec, we can visually monitor and present a better report to any clinician.  This also helps support the patient's peace of mind that the treatment actually is showing verifiable results.


4. RADIAL ARTERY: Another pulse reading that biofeedback and energy therapists commonly use is through the radial artery.  Comparatively, this scan identifies the radial artery to be much larger than the temporal artery (being approximately 2mm in width), whereas the temporal is 1mm or less in width. This corresponds to the fact that you can measure both the blood flow in and around the head and in the distal parts of the body- to the musculoskeletal system.  This scan could also help us search for other stress related diseases, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or osteoarthritis in the hands.

For non-radiologists using standard ultrasound or even pulse pressure with their fingers to measure the pulse, we have a way of quantifying the blood flow in major vessels.  Since we're looking for a refined way of detecting earlier treatment effect, we go to the smaller blood vessels as in the soft tissues of the temporal area (which are one half the diameter) and then verifying the same with the more sensitive and micro circulation of the retinal and posterior ciliary arteries system. In other words, using the tiniest arteries available to you, you can measure the treatment effect more quickly.

Disclaimer: MEDTECH REVIEWS* is a non-commercial user review of health-related technologies and is not intended as a marketing program for any device(s) featured in this video for evaluation. This presentation is for informational use only does not offer any direct medical claims whatsoever. Statements from all speakers herein are expressing their own unscripted views that do not reflect those of our producers.  Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.


PRODUCT TESTERS REPORTS & REVIEWS: BrainTap®
The MedTech Review team is comprised of clinical professionals who are dedicated to TEST DRIVING non-invasive technologies to provide their personal observations, evaluation and insight on its performance and potential benefits. While their articles are offered as supportive reviews as consumer/user advocates, all tech reviews provided by them are not offered as official medical data.   


PRIMER: "HEALING, STRESS AND THE PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM"
 
By: ROBERTA KLINE, MD-  The core of any health product test drive is to confirm how it directly affects the user. This comprehensive primer details the body's relationship to STRESS. Dr. Kline presents a clear and insightful overview of WELLNESS by confirming the body’s interconnected systems (ie. circulatory,  cardiovascular,  nervous, lymphatic,  endocrine  etc).  She identifies the many touch points for stimulation and helps us gain a more profound  understanding about the strategy behind this health‐tech review.  Learn about the basis for identifying biometrics and the various effects that comprise the device’s actual influences on the mind and body with   (Review complete Primer report)

REPORTER 1: JESSICA CONNELL, LCSW (Taking on the Mental Health Perspective) I am excited to review this (BrainTap®) and all other brain optimizing/relaxation devices for the benefit of supporting the patient community. We established a strategy of doing a BEFORE & AFTER comparison of my biometrics to first make sure everything works safely.  My goal was to (first) record that this device actually beings you into a meditative state- but the major test was to identify how MEDITATION actually works on the body.  I wanted to observe my body's metrics if it in fact shows results that align with the body's calm and relaxation. (see Jessica's complete review) 

USE OF QUANTITATIVE IMAGING
ROBERT L. BARD, MD (Ultrasound Diagnostic Specialist / med-tech evaluator) partnered with Jessica Connell to explore the effects of this BrainTap®- starting with a baseline of her vitals, then providing the use of 3D ultrasound scans of parts of her brain. This included her blood pressure, her body temperature and blood-oxidation levels. As part of this baseline (or the "BEFORE" portion of the exam) we then proceeded to do scans of eye, the side of the brain and the back of her head using various medical grade ultrasound devices where he could see my arteries and measurable blood flow. We collected all this data from her current physiology to create a means of comparing how her body would react to the device.  

REPORTER #2: LESLIE VALLE, MD 
(A Clinical Assessment on Binaural Beats) Most people have two underlying health issues as a common denominator, sleep deprivation and stress management. Sometimes this comes hand-in-hand with one another.  If we allow it to control our lives, stress can become a silent killer.   This is why as an initial consultation I make sure I get an analysis of everyone's heart rate variability (HRV).  I prefer to have a measurement of function and dysfunction before I read patients complaints and concerns, so I can scientifically show patients their levels of stress, sleep health and brainwave patterns.  The majority of the population firmly believes stress is present in their day-to-day life but never plays a dominant role.  I’ve had patients tell me they are not that much stressed - just “normal” stress.  Until I show them their own HRV analysis, at that point they have acknowledged they adapted to their level of stress and they believe it's normal.  (See Dr. Valle's complete reviews)

REPORTER #3: JOSH SCHUELLER, PT
 - Exploring New Hope in Wellness & Brain Health. "As a practicing Physical Therapist, I adhere to the philosophy of 'treating the whole person'.  This means that when a patient undergoes some form of therapy, it is common to uncover a variety of facets to their injury or condition.  The term “PHYSICAL therapy” can sometimes be conflicting as it suggests that the therapist only looks at the physical aspects.  Many injuries are comprised of multiple layers and all of them need to be considered to restore normal functions. " (See Josh's complete review)

*This spotlight segment is part of IPHA MedTech News' innovators feature series.



EVALUATION SET (PART 2):

A CLINICIAN'S ASSESSMENT ON BINAURAL BEATS
 By: Dr. Leslie Valle  | Edited by: Roberta Kline, MD

Most people have two underlying health issues as a common denominator, sleep deprivation and stress management. Sometimes this comes hand-in-hand with one another.  If we allow it to control our lives, stress can become a silent killer.   This is why as an initial consultation I make sure I get an analysis of everyone's heart rate variability (HRV).  I prefer to have a measurement of function and dysfunction before I read patients complaints and concerns, so I can scientifically show patients their levels of stress, sleep health and brainwave patterns.  The majority of the population firmly believes stress is present in their day-to-day life but never plays a dominant role.  I’ve had patients tell me they are not that much stressed - just “normal” stress.  Until I show them their own HRV analysis, at that point they have acknowledged they adapted to their level of stress and they believe it's normal.  (click to visit Dr. Valle's observational reviews)

INTEGRATING NON-INVASIVE TECHNOLOGIES

Years ago, I learned about biofeedback and electromagnetic field therapy. The market was robust with choices, but something called ONDAMED® won me over- largely due to the functional health strategy by design, indicating a heavy focus on a whole-body care. It combined the diagnostic abilities of biofeedback science to "communicate with the body" to monitor conditions and imbalances. Then the intuitive energy healing aspect comes in the form of its PEMF element (pulsed electromagnetic field) to 're-balance' the body or support the body to repair itself painlessly and non-invasively.  Treating patients showed many positive results including tissue stimulation for pain relief in soft tissue injuries and wound healing. Next, patients would tell me about having difficulty with reducing their stress. I was introduced to BINAURAL BEATS therapy, an auditory illusion perceived when two different pure- tones, separated in frequency by only a few Hertz, one in each ear -  the brain is left with a unique third tone. Many claim that binaural beats can induce a meditative state more quickly and is said to: manage/reduce anxiety, improve focus and concentration, support positive moods and even help with pain management.  (see complete feature)


CREDITS
¡ Lennard M. Gettz, Ed.D - Project Coordinator / Case Reporter (Biometrics)
¡ Jessica Connell, LCSW - Co-evaluator / mental health performance review
¡ Robert L. Bard, MD - Sr. Diagnostic Specialist / Clinical Imaging Evaluator
¡ Leslie Valle-Montoya, MD - Clinical evaluator 2
¡ Roberta Kline, MD - Academic Research Advisor / Technical Compliance
¡ Josh Schueller, PT - Evaluator / Performance review
¡ David Dachinger - Meditation advisory panel


SPECIAL THANKS
The Integrative Pain Healers Alliance Med-Tech Review team and its affiliates expresses our appreciation to the development and research team at BrainTap Inc.- including Dr. Patrick Porter, Dr. Francisco Cidral and Ms. Erin Miller for their generous support in providing us their time, insight , resources and technology for this review.  Also, we give very special thanks to Mr. Pat Ziemer (Aurawell PEMF) for his dedicated contribution that helped make this review possible.


"HERX IS NOT A SIDE EFFECT!" By: Josh Schueller, PT


As non-invasive treatments such as electromagnetic and neuro-stimulation devices have shown significant evidence as a safe and effective option for wellness and pain relief within recent decades, one possible bodily reaction may occur that can feel adversely as pain or discomfort- possibly being misunderstood as a side effect of the treatment.  This physiological reaction is called Herxheimer Reaction. This can occur when dead microbes or bacteria release endotoxins into your body at an accelerating rate.   This accelerated release is quicker than the body can eliminate.  The body then initiates an immune response which can bring on an inflammatory response.  Otherwise known as "Herk reactions", this reaction is commonly a temporary and short term (normally only last a couple hours to days) detoxification reaction in your body.  Common symptoms can resemble the flu- headache, joint and muscle ache, malaise, chills, nausea, sore throat etc.   This reaction is caused by the detoxification of the body.  Staying hydrated is one way to help flush your body and decrease the symptoms.  (See complete article) 




JESI STRACHAM (NC)  is an adaptive athlete, public figure, and advocate for the wheelchair community. Since 2015, she has made it her life’s mission to touch as many hearts as possible, inspiring others to live their lives to the absolute fullest - despite their obstacles. Jesi has tried her hand at multiple adaptive sports, but found an outlet for her competitive drive alongside the abled-bodied, participating in the Tough Mudder series. In 2017, she received her “Holy Grail” which involves competing in the demanding, 24-hour World’s Toughest Mudder. Using a team of support runners, she has shown the world that when just a few people come together, anything is possible.


"GETTING MY LIFE BACK FROM CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME"  2/15/2022- Mrs. Suzanne Wheeler of Minneapolis, Minnesota is celebrated as IPHA NEWS' Researcher of the Month.  After years of suffering a life-altering disorder that currently continues to challenge the scientific community of its root causes, Mrs. Wheeler explored “outside the conventional box” of opioid prescriptions, uncovering alternative solutions that got her back on her feet and joining life again.  Invoking CHANGE against all odds by diligently searching for what’s beyond the convenient takes courage and conviction.  It is this level of academic strength and strategic leadership that comprises the Alternative Health and Wellness community. (see full feature on Mrs. Wheeler's PEMF review)



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Wednesday, August 17, 2022

The Art of STACKING: Wellness Through Integrative Solutions

INTEGRATING NON-INVASIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Statements by: Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya  | Edited by: Roberta Kline, MD

Years ago, I learned about biofeedback and electromagnetic field therapy. The market was robust with choices, but something called ONDAMED® won me over- largely due to the functional health strategy by design, indicating a heavy focus on a whole-body care. It combined the diagnostic abilities of biofeedback science to "communicate with the body" to monitor conditions and imbalances. Then the intuitive energy healing aspect comes in the form of its PEMF element (pulsed electromagnetic field) to 're-balance' the body or support the body to repair itself painlessly and non-invasively.  Treating patients showed many positive results including tissue stimulation for pain relief in soft tissue injuries and wound healing.

The concepts behind this combined science made sense to me because anyone who understands energy healing would recognize the body's meridians and blood flow and the effects of supporting (regenerative) cellular activity.  From my early training on the technology, ONDAMED® focuses on "underlying conditions rather than symptoms"- a principle that I have always subscribed to as a healer.

Next, patients would tell me about having difficulty with reducing their stress. I was introduced to BINAURAL BEATS therapy, an auditory illusion perceived when two different pure- tones, separated in frequency by only a few Hertz, one in each ear -  the brain is left with a unique third tone. Many claim that binaural beats can induce a meditative state more quickly and is said to: manage/reduce anxiety, improve focus and concentration, support positive moods and even help with pain management. 

In addition, I discovered advantages to things like RED & BLUE LIGHT therapy as far as helping somebody not only meditate and 'train the brain' in noninvasive ways.  Light has its own frequency just like our tissues have their own frequency. To penetrate light into the meridians in the ear, you are delivering the therapeutic frequency to our body to amplify and help certain tissues to restore balance.  Not only is light therapeutic or soothing, but it is known to actually heal tissues with its unique frequency and applications.

Upon review of various models and designs, I narrowed my choice to the device called "BrainTap". It works great as guided meditation and it actually feels a little like EMDR when they're using it.



MULTI-MODALITY RESEARCH: 
ONDAMED
® Biofeedback/PEMF & the Doppler Ultrasound

8/5/2022- An exploratory analytical project is co-directed by Dr. Bard (NYC) and Dr. Silvia Binder (Germany) at the Bard Diagnostic Imaging research facility.  Combining the diagnostic prowess of the ultrasound has become Dr. Bard's preferred choice for imaging because of its (safe) non-radiation and real-time properties- and added to this is its ability to perform near and within other electronic regenerative technologies (like the ONDAMED® Biofeedback and PEMF) without any interference. 

This three-day scientific review is a testament of strategic vision between health innovators aspiring to forge and confirm new answers while fostering the non-invasive medical technology movement. Where both the ONDAMED® device and the Ultrasound are two of the latest in non-surgical medical marvels, combining the unique diagnostic abilities of biofeedback and the imaging performance of ultrasound (through quantitative biometrics) reading the effects of the PEMF therapeutic functions of the ONDAMED® offers a new way to support, analyze and record evidence of regenerative medicine.  (See full article)



Interview with Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya (contd.)

These days, I often combine modalities including these two devices for many patients because they work so well together.   A significant exam that I conduct with patients is heart rate variability, where I evaluate the autonomic nervous system to measure stress, sleep patterns and brain wavelengths. This helps identify any need to improve brain entrainment. The binaural beats of BrainTap will introduce (say) 200Hz in one ear and 207Hz in the other- 200 cancels and you are left with 7Hz. And that is theta data of brain wavelength that takes you into a deep meditated state in three minutes.

Because a lot of people don't know how to meditate or just relax, in three minutes,
BrainTap will do it for you. It's passive treatment and all you have to do is relax and listen.  I see a lot of benefit in combining BrainTap with in-patient sessions, for example with IV hydration therapy.  Most people end up falling asleep because they don't have that regulation entrainment in their brain and this technology will do it for you. I think there's been studies where an hour of binaural beats  will replace three hours of sleep.

I find these innovations to offer so many advantages to our patient community. As one example, I have patients with addiction disorders- for things like smoking per se. You have to train the brain to deal with the addiction. You can't just remove the source and think that it's going to work. So not only does frequency medicine with ONDAMED® and water treatment help to regulate, the binaural beats work in conjunction to "train" the brain to open up and let go of that addiction.


IN-OFFICE BIOHACKING
Another common advantage to this energy therapy is managing ANXIETY within the younger generation. I've seen a lot of teenagers in my office recently for just anxiety purposes, which I think has been amplified during this recent era. To introduce BrainTap while on an infrared bed, or sitting in ONDAMED® session has opened up that possibility that they can be able to manage their anxiety, which is sometimes not easy to do with a counselor or a psychologist.   The use of BrainTap has been extremely beneficial for the young population. There are numerous ways to incorporate different methods of biohacking your mind and body into your daily routine.


SHAPING A SPECIALIZED PRACTICE IN CANCER CARE
Developing my program was based on combining my medical training with exploring what's out there.  I also maintain a constant ear for what's current by listening to my patients.  I am a big proponent of technical research, and part of being in this information age includes SHARING what's available. Most often, I also get educated by my patients on their findings because there's a lot of modalities and therapies out there that were not part of my conventional training.  I find that today's patient (including those in critical situations) are armed with an open mind to explore and try new and innovative solutions, alongside the access to unlimited resources thanks to the web.  The idea of collaborating is not limited to doctor-to-doctor.  Once I found enough answers that made sense to me, I learned the different ways of detoxing and amplifying your immune system.  I introduce this entire health program to my patients as part of an educational effort.


EPILOGUE
After medical school, Dr. Valle focused on managing chronic disease starting with its links to poor nutrition and then introducing them into the world of energy frequencies.  She expanded her training in biological medicine with Dr. Thomas Rau at the Swiss Biological Medicine Academy (Switzerland) where she combined this with the nutritional aspect. Dr. Valle also recognized the need to implement lifestyle medicine into a well-rounded wellness program.  This helped her design comprehensive programs including those specific for cancer patients- mostly based on the emotional and nutritional components of cancer.  She explores and includes non-invasive modalities such as: frequency therapies (including biofeedback), PEMF, proper detoxification, nutritional guidance and binaural beats as needed.



A special NYCRA-NEWS interview with Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya on the ONDAMED®/BrainTap Connection


INTRODUCTION
Written by: Graciella Davi & Carmen Regallo-Dewitt (NYCRA-NEWS editorial team)

Supporting the public access to the vast arena of pain/injury relief and therapy solutions, the clinical members of the NY Cancer Resource Alliance (NYCRA) freely shares professional insights and resources for better health and wellness.  Oftentimes, our members spotlight experts and developers who share remarkable out-of-the-box innovations, protocols and strategies that bring modern concepts that support the news understanding about non-invasive and safer health alternatives. This includes the latest innovations in diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. 

Through a recent virtual health technology conference about biofeedback innovations at the Women's Diagnostic Network, we learned about the work of Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya of Santa Barbara, CA.  "Dr. Leslie" (as she is often called) incorporates her medical training and other extensive knowledge in functional and integrative medicine.  She works with patients challenged by cancer and chronic disorders through integrating Bioenergetic medicine, nutrition and Biological medicine.  She offers patients a set of options between conventional and alternative medicine to heal and rejuvenate- pursuing a mind-body-spirit paradigm where individuals can reach optimum health and a resilient outcome.


 






The Science of Energy Healing & the Biofield

Everything is energy. Quantum physics has demonstrated that everything exists as a vibrational energy. Some forms of energy have a frequency low enough to make the object solid and therefore visible and physically tangible, such as concrete, trees, mountains, and the human body. Others, such as sound, light, heat and gravity are invisible – but they are no less real. The Biofield is a relatively new term developed in 1992 to describe the concept of energy in a more unified way, integrating knowledge gained from traditional practices with that of modern science.  Three of the main scientific principles underlying our current understanding of the Biofield energy are thermodynamics, physics and quantum physics.  (See complete feature article)


Personalized Nutrition: Far Beyond B12
The research is pretty unequivocal: eating a plant-based, whole food diet is overall one of the healthiest strategies. But there are many ways to implement this into one’s diet. For some people, this looks like a Mediterranean Diet. Paleo is another common choice. Others opt for a vegetarian or even vegan diet. And many people will thrive on their chosen version. But did you know your genes play a large role in what foods best support your health, and if you don’t choose accordingly the best intentions can actually harm you? Fortunately, there is an easy way to solve this problem: know your genes.  While personalizing nutrition to each person’s genes is a powerful way to optimally support each person’s biochemistry and health, some diets can pose particular challenges. (See complete article)


"GETTING MY LIFE BACK FROM CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME"  2/15/2022- Mrs. Suzanne Wheeler of Minneapolis, Minnesota is celebrated as IPHA NEWS' Researcher of the Month.  After years of suffering a life-altering disorder that currently continues to challenge the scientific community of its root causes, Mrs. Wheeler explored “outside the conventional box” of opioid prescriptions, uncovering alternative solutions that got her back on her feet and joining life again.  Invoking CHANGE against all odds by diligently searching for what’s beyond the convenient takes courage and conviction.  It is this level of academic strength and strategic leadership that comprises the Alternative Health and Wellness community. (see full feature on Mrs. Wheeler's PEMF review)



CONTRIBUTORS

ROBERTA KLINE, MD (Educational Dir. /Women's Diagnostic Group)
Dr. Kline is a board-certified ObGyn physician, Integrative Personalized Medicine expert, consultant, author, and educator whose mission is to change how we approach health and deliver healthcare. She helped to create the Integrative & Functional Medicine program for a family practice residency, has consulted with Sodexo to implement the first personalized nutrition menu for healthcare facilities, and serves as Education Director for several organizations including the Women’s Diagnostic Health Network, Mommies on a Mission. Learn more at https://robertaklinemd.com/




MARY NIELSEN (Founder/ Faculty Director - Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics)
Mary established and manages a certified aesthetics institution in Portland Oregon supporting the academic leadership and technical ability to grow a med spa profitably. Through collaborative relationships with evolving aesthetics business, her programs (Fearless Beauties and Cascade Aesthetic Alliance) functions to help the esthetician, whether newly licensed or a veteran with education and networking. She is also a published author of best selling textbooks in aesthetic wellness including ADVANCED AESETHETICS and FEARLESS BEAUTIES. Mary is dedicated to bringing change to the esthetics/beauty industry through comprehensive education and empowerment through knowledge.  https://www.fearlessbeauties.org/




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