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Author: Andrew Kistner

New Published Study by Dr. Efrati – Unlocking the Secrets of Anti-Aging with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in Specific Therapies.

Dr. Shai Efrati, MD, from the Hyperbaric Medicine Research & Lectures at The Oxford Center recently published a groundbreaking study on PubMed. This study sheds light on the remarkable benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This research reveals a significant correlation between HBOT and the enhancement of telomere length; ultimately contributing to a reduction in cellular aging.

Understanding the Study

Telomeres, the protective caps at the end of our chromosomes, play a crucial role in determining cellular lifespan. Dr. Efrati’s study delves into how Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can positively impact telomere length; providing a potential key to slowing down the aging process at a cellular level.

Key Findings

The study demonstrates a compelling connection between HBOT and the extension of telomeres. It suggesting that this therapy holds promise as an anti-aging solution. As telomeres naturally shorten over time, maintaining or even lengthening them through HBOT presents an exciting avenue for exploring age-related health concerns.

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or chamber. This increased oxygen concentration in the body has been linked to various health benefits, and Dr. Efrati’s research adds a new dimension by highlighting its potential impact on cellular aging.

Connect with The Oxford Center

For those intrigued by the possibilities of HBOT and its anti-aging implications, The Oxford Center in Brighton and Troy, Michigan, is your gateway to further insights. Our experts at The Oxford Center are dedicated to exploring cutting-edge research and providing valuable information on innovative health solutions.

As we navigate the complexities of aging, the study conducted by Dr. Shai Efrati opens up exciting avenues for further research into the potential of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. The Oxford Center invites you to join us on this journey of discovery and explore the transformative possibilities that HBOT may offer in the realm of anti-aging solutions.

Link to full research publication below!

Read Now!

Embrace a Healthier You in the New Year: 5 Resolutions for a Positive Change

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, Blog Posts.

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, the air is filled with a sense of renewal and the promise of positive change. The tradition of making New Year’s resolutions has been a longstanding practice for many, and this year is no exception. If you find yourself among those who are eager to embark on a journey of self-improvement, consider making resolutions that prioritize your health and well-being. Here are five healthy options to kickstart your New Year and set the tone for a happier, more fulfilling life.

Prioritize Physical Activity:

Exercise is not just about shedding pounds; it’s a holistic approach to a healthier lifestyle. This year, make a resolution to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Whether it’s brisk walks, yoga, or hitting the gym, find an activity that brings you joy. Start with achievable goals, gradually increasing the intensity as you build strength and stamina. The key is consistency, so choose activities you genuinely enjoy to ensure long-term success.

Adopt a Balanced Diet:

Rather than resorting to crash diets or extreme restrictions, focus on adopting a balanced and sustainable approach to eating. Consider embracing a diet rich in high-quality proteins and fats, aligning with a ketogenic or Paleo approach. The Paleo philosophy emphasizes a grain and gluten-free diet, complementing the focus on meats, fish, eggs, cheese, nuts, and healthy oils while minimizing carbohydrate intake. This approach underscores the importance of fats and proteins in providing sustained energy and supporting overall well-being. Explore a range of cooking techniques and creative recipes that celebrate these food groups. It’s about choosing nourishing options that cater to your body’s needs, promoting both physical health and mental clarity, without feeling restricted.

Prioritize Mental Health:

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook our mental well-being. This year, resolve to prioritize your mental health by incorporating mindfulness practices into your routine. Whether it’s meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the present, these practices can help reduce stress and improve overall mental clarity. Consider seeking support from professionals or joining community groups to share experiences and coping strategies.

Hydrate and Sleep Well:

Two fundamental yet often neglected aspects of health are hydration and sleep. Make a commitment to stay adequately hydrated throughout the day, as water plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Additionally, ensure you get enough quality sleep each night. Establish a bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and limit screen time before bed to improve the quality and duration of your rest.

Cultivate Positive Relationships:

Healthy living extends beyond physical well-being; it includes fostering positive relationships. This year, make it a resolution to surround yourself with supportive and uplifting individuals. Cultivate relationships that bring joy, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s spending quality time with family, reconnecting with friends, or joining new social groups, investing in positive relationships can have a profound impact on your overall well-being.

Seize the opportunity to embark on a journey toward a healthier and happier you. These resolutions are not just about the number on a scale but about creating a balanced and fulfilling life. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember that small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. Here’s to a year of positive transformations and a healthier, more vibrant you!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – The Oxford Center Unveils Significant Findings in Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, Blog Posts, News.

Date: January 4, 2024 

Location: Brighton, Michigan 

The Oxford Center is elated to announce a major breakthrough in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) research with its latest publication, “The Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment on Verbal Scores in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Retrospective Trial”. This research, led by a team of Medical Doctors, Biostatisticians, and Researchers, offers new insights into the treatment of ASD. 

Our study utilized a robust two-group quasi-experimental design, meticulously analyzing the effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) on children with ASD as compared to a control group receiving standard ASD therapies such as ABA, Speech, and Occupational Therapy. Key findings include a statistically significant improvement in verbal scores among the children who received HBOT in addition to standard ASD therapies, with an average improvement of 48.95% in the four areas in the field of speech-language pathology. This result when compared to the control group not only highlights the potential of HBOT as a viable intervention for ASD but also paves the way for future research in this area. 

The research team’s thorough approach, encompassing detailed data analysis and a commitment to scientific rigor, underscores The Oxford Center’s dedication to transforming healthcare outcomes. We believe these findings represent a significant step forward in enhancing communication abilities and quality of life for children with ASD. 

The publication can be found on The Cureus Journal of Medical Science website. 

For further details about this study and its transformative impact on ASD treatment, please contact Tami Peterson, PhD at Tami@TheOxfordCenter.com. 

End of Release 

Link to Publication

TOC Talks Episode 36: Questions With Santa!

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in TOC Talks Podcast.

Get ready for a festive edition of TOC Talks! In Episode 36, our host, Andrew Kistner, sits down with none other than Santa Claus himself! Discover the secrets behind Santa’s naughty and nice list and even his favorite snacks for Christmas. Join us for a heartwarming and laughter-filled conversation that’s perfect for the whole family. Don’t miss “Questions With Santa” – the jolliest episode of the season!

Check It Out

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform!

Want to watch all our episodes? Check out our YouTube Playlist! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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TOC Talks – Questions with Santa Episode 36| RSS.com

The Oxford Center is Hosting….

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in Events, News.

We are thrilled to announce next year’s Oxford Kids Foundation Gala!

Join us on May 4th, 2024, for this fun derby-themed gala in honor of the Kentucky Derby’s 150th anniversary. Hosted at The Oxford Center, this Gala will showcase the impact of the Oxford Kids Foundation and how you can help support our mission. Together, we are changing lives! Don’t miss updates on our website and social media channels.

Get Your Tickets Here!

Join us for an unforgettable night at our gala this year! Get your tickets now by clicking the button. You won’t want to miss the fun, excitement and an open bar. See you there!

Tickets

Sponsorship Opportunities

Are you interested in sponsoring this year’s gala? Explore the various ways you can get involved by clicking the button below. We have exciting opportunities for you to showcase your brand and support our cause. Join us in making a difference and gaining exposure for your business.

Sponsorship
Visit their website to learn more!

Do You Have Any Food Sensitivities?  

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Blog Posts, Nutrition.

For most, food allergies are something very familiar.  Many people don’t have any allergies at all, so they just assume they are safe to eat any foods they want. But what if you actually have food sensitivities? Some people, or even most people, may be eating foods every day that their body is sensitive to. These foods could unknowingly increase inflammatory responses that are causes a whole slew of side effects!  

What is a Food Sensitivity?  

Unlike a food allergy, a food sensitivity is not life-threatening and does not elicit an immediate, serious reaction. Food sensitivity reactions typically appear within 48-72 hours of eating the food(s) that caused the reaction. These are foods that your body is sensitive to and has trouble processing, which then triggers an inflammatory response and causes a variety of side effects that you may have been struggling with for years without knowing the true cause.  

How to Tell If You Have a Food Sensitivity 

food sensitivities

Identifying a food sensitivity can be challenging due to the delayed onset of symptoms. However, there are signs that may indicate the presence of a food sensitivity. Here’s how to recognize if you have a food sensitivity: 

  • Digestive Distress: Frequent bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach cramps after consuming certain foods could be indicative of a food sensitivity. 
  • Skin Issues: Persistent skin problems like eczema, rashes, acne, or hives that don’t respond well to traditional treatments might be linked to food sensitivities. 
  • Chronic Fatigue: Feeling consistently tired or experiencing energy crashes after eating specific foods may point to an underlying food sensitivity. 
  • Headaches and Migraines: Frequent headaches or migraines after consuming certain foods could be a sign of food sensitivity. 
  • Joint Pain: Unexplained joint pain or stiffness may be linked to inflammatory responses triggered by food sensitivities. 
  • Mood Changes: Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or even depression could be connected to certain foods that your body is sensitive to. 
  • Respiratory Issues: Persistent congestion, sinus problems, or difficulty breathing might be associated with food sensitivities. 
  • Weight Management Difficulties: Difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight fluctuations could be influenced by food sensitivities affecting metabolism and inflammation. 

How to Overcome a Food Sensitivity 

Overcoming a food sensitivity, or multiple food sensitivities, can be very complicated and nearly impossible without professional help. A professional nutritionist can help guide you through an MRT (Mediator Release Test) test. An MRT test is a comprehensive test that will identify any food sensitivities your body has… even if you have not eaten that food! Testing is always the most effective and efficient way to know exactly what is going on in your body. Until you are able to seek professional help, here are some steps you can take to get the process started:  

  • Food Diary: Maintain a food diary to track your meals, snacks, and symptoms. This can help identify patterns between certain foods and your body’s reactions. 
  • Focus on Whole Foods: Shift your diet to emphasize whole, unprocessed foods. This can help reduce exposure to potential triggers and support overall health. 
  • Rotate Foods: If you identify mild sensitivities, try rotating your diet to reduce constant exposure to specific foods. 
  • Read Labels: Be vigilant about reading food labels, as certain ingredients may be hidden sources of trigger foods. 
  • Mindful Eating: Pay attention to how you feel after meals. Mindful eating can help you notice subtle reactions and adjust your diet accordingly. 
  • Holistic Approaches: Consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep, as stress can exacerbate inflammatory responses. 
  • Gradual Reintroduction: If you’ve eliminated a food, consider reintroducing it in small quantities to observe your body’s response. Following reintroduction, this can help determine your tolerance level. 

Nutrition Services at The Oxford Center

At The Oxford Center, our Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) and Restorative Wellness Practitioner (RWP) can help you discover all the possibilities nutrition and our program holds for improving your life and your health. We offer both individual and group classes tailored to what you need in your nutritional journey. Typically, our program will start with gut (GI) testing and food sensitivity testing. Following your tests, our nutritionist will sit down with you to discuss the results and cultivate a specific personalized plan that will work best for you and your body. Clients will find that it is empowering knowing that you can change and improve your health without needing help from anything else.   

Learn More

TOC Talks Episode 21: “Exploring Your Local Area!”

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

In this episode of TOC Talks, Andrew Kistner talks with Mary Robinson from the Explore Brighton Howell Area magazine about great activities and locations to visit in the area! At The Oxford Center, we constantly have patients coming in from out of town to treat, so it is great to be able to put together some of the area’s top attractions! Whether you want to learn more about the best restaurants in the area, some of the best undiscovered trails, or unforgettable family experiences, we have it all! Don’t miss out on this special episode! 

Check it Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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TOC Talks – Exploring Your Local area TOC Talks: EP 21 | RSS.com

How To Help Children with Special Needs Transition to the New School Year   

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All Posts, Autism/ABA Therapy, Blog Posts, Informational.

As the end of summer approaches and the new school year draws near, children with special needs and parents alike may experience a mix of excitement and anxiety about the upcoming changes. Transitioning from a laid-back summer schedule to the structured routine of school can be challenging for many children, particularly those with special needs who thrive on predictability and consistency. As parents and caregivers, we want to do our best to ensure our children are as prepared as possible to be successful. Thankfully, there are proactive steps we can take to help ease this transition and ensure a smooth start to the new school year.  

What Can you do at Home to Help your Special Needs Child Transition?  

transition special needs

Communicate and Prepare:

Open and honest communication is key to helping children with special needs prepare for the school year. Start discussions early, explaining the changes that will occur once school starts. Use visual aids, social stories, or picture schedules to help them understand the daily routine and what to expect in the classroom. 

Reestablish Routines:

During the last weeks of summer, gradually reestablish school-year routines. This includes consistent wake-up times, mealtimes, and bedtime schedules. Predictability and familiarity can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security for children with special needs. 

Visit the School:

If possible, arrange a visit to the school before the first day. Walk through the building, visit the classroom, and meet the teacher. Familiarizing the child with the school environment can alleviate anxiety and help them feel more comfortable on the first day. 

Encourage Social Interactions:

For some children with special needs, social interactions can be challenging. Organize playdates with classmates or participate in school-sponsored activities before the start of the school year. Building social connections in a relaxed setting can foster friendships and ease the transition into the school community. 

Develop a Transition Plan:

Collaborate with the child’s teachers and school staff to develop a personalized transition plan. This plan may include gradual integration into the school setting, shorter school days initially, or additional support services as needed. Individualized attention and support can significantly reduce the stress of starting a new school year. 

Address Specific Concerns:

Identify any specific concerns the child may have and work together to find solutions. For instance, if the child is worried about changes in the daily routine, create a visual schedule they can refer to throughout the day. Addressing these concerns proactively can help alleviate anxiety and promote a positive mindset. 

Create a Back-to-School Countdown:

Use a visual or interactive countdown to the first day of school. This can be a fun and engaging way to build excitement and anticipation for the upcoming school year. 

Encourage Expressing Emotions:

Let the child know that it’s normal to have mixed feelings about starting a new school year. Encourage them to express their emotions and actively listen to their concerns. Offering support and understanding can help validate their feelings and build their confidence. 

Positive Reinforcement:

Offer positive reinforcement and praise for any efforts the child makes during this transition period. Celebrate small victories, such as successful playdates or positive interactions with classmates. Positive reinforcement can boost their self-esteem and motivate them to face new challenges. 

Conclusion

The transition from summer ending to school starting can be a significant milestone for children with special needs and their families. By implementing these practical strategies and providing consistent support, parents and caregivers can help ease the anxiety and uncertainty that may accompany this transition. Through open communication, personalized planning, and a nurturing environment, children with special needs can embark on the new school year with confidence and enthusiasm, ready to embrace the opportunities for growth and learning that lie ahead. At The Oxford Center, our BCBA’s are knowledgeable and experienced with helping your child transition from summertime to school time and are ready to help your child achieve all of their goals. To learn more about our ABA program, click the link below. 

Learn More

TOC Talks Episode 20: “Effective Treatment for Lyme Disease”

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Posts, TOC Talks Podcast.

In this episode of TOC Talks, Andrew Kistner talks with Elizabeth Terry, the Director of Medical Services at The Oxford Center, about a disease that will affect so many this fall… Lyme disease. Ticks always become so prevalent in the warm summer and fall months and Lyme disease is often not far off for those who have been bitten by a tick. Many struggle with recovering from Lyme disease, but thankfully, Elizabeth was able to share some helpful options that The Oxford Center offers. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) can help patients recover from Lyme disease, even if they have not been successful in antibiotic therapy. The Oxford Center also offers Neurofeedback Therapy and Nutritional Services to help you on your way to recovery and ensure you are operating at your best. Tune in to hear all about how these amazing options can help those with Lyme disease recover! 

Check it Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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TOC Talks – Effective Treatment for Lyme Disease TOC Talks: Ep 20 | RSS.com

Our Indoor ARTS Playscape: Combining Fun & Learning 

Written by Andrew Kistner on . Posted in All Blogs, All News, All Posts, Autism/ABA Therapy, Blog Posts, Events, Informational, News.

The Oxford Center has a very exciting new addition- an approximately 960 square feet indoor playscape for our Brighton location! This playscape has been a long process of picking out the perfect model and features, patiently tracking its shipment process, and then watching excitedly as it was being built! We know this playscape is going to be so much fun for our kiddos! Our playscape features a climbing rock wall, multiple slides, a ball pit, a swing, an obstacle course, and more! With so many great, fun features, we know this playscape is going to be a great addition. But is there any point to it beyond just being fun? Absolutely! The playscape is going to be a huge asset to our ARTS programs. 

What is our ARTS Program?   

Our ARTS program stands for Autism Recovery Thru Synergy. At The Oxford Center, our synergistic approach to autism is unlike any other ABA center. We use every tool in our belt to help our kids grow and develop as much as possible. We know that many kids coming to us for ABA services will also benefit from services like Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. So, we have incorporated all of these therapies into one program so that we can provide each of our kids with the best possible individualized experience.  

How will the playscape be used in ARTS?  

When picking out our playscape and all its features, we made sure to put careful thought into how the playscape would be able to benefit each therapy in our ARTS program. We want our kids to have fun and enjoy their time here- but it is also important to us that they are learning, and that we are doing everything we can to help them as well. Here are the benefits and learning opportunities our playscape will have for our ARTS program:  

-Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy:

ABA offers a huge wealth of opportunities for growth through our playscape. Our kids will be able to practice waiting, requesting preferring locations, shoes and socks on and off, turn taking, peer play, requesting actions, requesting actions from peers, transitions from preferred locations, requesting help, identifying emotions, and more!

Learn More About ABA

-Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy:

Our playscape will help to develop key skills in both physical therapy and occupational therapy. These include practicing skills like vestibular input which will allow kids to practice for changes in their position, movement, or direction of the head. They will also be able to practice motor planning while playing which allows them to remember and perform body movements to fulfill a task, dynamic balance which will allow our kids to practice remaining standing and stable while engaging in play, practicing coordination, kinesthetic awareness which allows practice sensing the position and movement of their own body, strengthening muscles, and lots of practice with sensory processing and visual-spatial awareness skills through each of our playscape features.  

Learn More About Physical Therapy
Learn More About Occupational Therapy

-Speech Therapy:

In speech therapy, our playscape will offer fantastic opportunities for peer-to-peer interactions involving turn-taking and sharing. They will be able to increase functional play skills by sharing and taking turns in things like waiting their turn to go down the slide, use the ball pit, sharing balls, etc. They will also be able to increase their expressive language skills through utterance length and labeling skills to express their wants and needs, whether that be verbally or through an AAC device.  

Learn More About Speech Therapy

Conclusion

In conclusion, the addition of our indoor playscape at The Oxford Center’s Brighton location signifies more than just a physical expansion; it symbolizes a commitment to innovative and holistic autism therapy. Through this vibrant playscape, we are exemplifying how learning and development can be intertwined with play and fun. By providing a nurturing environment that sparks curiosity and excitement, we are able to foster an atmosphere where children can flourish and reach their fullest potential. As we look ahead, the playscape represents a bright future for autism therapy, where innovation, compassion, and the power of play combine to create a world of possibilities for the children in our care. 

Check out our timelapse video of the playscape being built!