Researchers put patients with serious bowel disease on Omega-3 supplements from the Epanova company. They took four capsules a day of enteric coated concentrated omega-3 fats. These are the same kind found in fish oils. They found that the 4 grams of mixed EPA and DHA (both omega-3 fats) did not reduce the rate of recurrence of Crohn's disease. They also did not do any of the other things that make a comprehensive nutritional plan succeed. They made no effort to remove allergens, milik, wheat or other irritants to the GI tract but instead treated the Omega-3 fat as a drug. It is not. The actions of natural remedies are much more subtle and need to be part of a comprehensive plan. When we treat Crohn's symptoms we always address diet, stress reduction, medications, hormones and probiotic supplements. Our success rate is really quite impressive with over 50% of patients in sustained remission without medication. They ALL take Omega-3 fats as part of their plan.

The American College of Osteopathic Pain Management and Sclerotherapy is meeting at the Hilton in Phoenix at the Tapatio Cliffs Resort. Most people think that it's a little bit vacation and a little bit work. In fact, the classes start at 8:00 AM with a one hour break for lunch and ends around 5:30 with intensive lecturing and then injection lab. When we're done we do usually go out for dinner (and maybe a glass of wine or two). The conference cost $750, the flight $250 and the room about $800 for the room. Food and lost income add up to a total cost of about $8000 to attend a conference. Why? To provide better care. Drug companies don't sponsor "alternative" treatment conferences. There are no subsidies and the doctors all pay their own way. Why? Because they care about their patients and want to give them an alternative to surgery. Prolotherapy (also called sclerotherapy) is an amazing alternative to all sorts of treatment for pain and musculoskeletal problems. It's inexpensive, effective and incredibly safe. Why doesn't everyone know about prolotherapy? Good question!