Parkhotel Igls, Innsbruck, Austria

Editorial2015/16 und Inhalt Parkhotel Igls Guest Magazine autumn/winter

Stay healthy this winter!

The healing power of heat, maintaining a healthy heart, and the link between fasting and our sense of taste

Editorial und Inhalt

Editorial & contents

Contents 4 Maintaining a healthy heart Eating with full awareness instead of self-denial and asceticism 12 Acquiring a taste for fasting Fasting for the senses 16 The heat of the matter Healing heat

Dear Guest,

18

The diagnostics guide Medical services under one roof

22

Back trouble Slipped discs

24

A giant among birds A visit to an ostrich farm

26

Did you know that ...

It's that time of year again: the days are shorter and the nights are drawing in. Heat is particularly beneficial to health and wellbeing during this season: the Parkhotel Igls can offer an abundance of healing heat within our range of treatments, including liver compresses, hay flowers and moor heat packs, Schiele circulation baths … and, of course, our warm cordiality. You’ll particularly enjoy the benefits that the Finnish sauna, bio-sauna, steam bath and infrared cabin bring when the outside temperatures start to drop.

27 Offers & treatment modules overview and additional information

Also in this issue, we’d like to introduce you to Dr Norbert Schauer, our consultant cardiologist of many years’ standing. Dr Schauer and our Medical Director Dr Peter Gartner explain how we can contribute to maintaining a healthy heart, and describe the effect of Modern Mayr Medicine on the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, we reveal the vital role played by our sense of taste, especially in relation to fasting.

You'll find this and much more on the pages that follow.

We hope you enjoy our magazine, and look forward to welcoming you back to the Parkhotel Igls.

With warmest regards from Igls,

Andrea Gnägi MAG

3

4

WHAT KEEPS OUR HEART HEALTHY:

Mindful eating

Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the Western world, particularly in North America and Europe. Our lifestyle is the main reason for the tremendous surge in cardiovascular diseases, which if detected early enough are easy to treat.

Our long-standing consultant cardiologist Dr Norbert Schauer and Medical Director Dr Peter Gartner agree, however, that the key is prevention. Here they discuss heart health with the ParkZeit.

5

Was das Herz gesund erhält

What is meant when we speak of cardiovascular disease?

determine whether further specialist examinations are needed. It is rare for guests to come to us complaining of symptoms, and we generally detect abnormalities during

Schauer: This is when the coronary vessels become

the initial examination.

diseased, that is, when circulation is impaired – as can occur in the arteries, the brain or legs for instance. It can

Schauer: Yes, Mayr physicians are highly sensitised.

lead to heart attacks. Heart failure is when the heart is

I tend to detect very precise indications about things

unable to pump sufficiently to maintain adequate blood

such as heart murmurs. This is because, in addition

flow. This is really quite common and can be triggered by

to all the technology we have at our disposal, our

inflammation or immunological disorders.

guests undergo profound clinical examinations: asking questions, listening and engaging with the individual are basic diagnostic tools. The Parkhotel Igls doctors all like

What are the symptoms?

to take plenty of time over this vital component of patient care.

Schauer: Chest pain while walking coupled with sweating and even a sensation of impending doom. The most

Gartner: We can offer everything under one roof, and

common symptoms of heart failure include shortness of

that’s basically our USP. Should further investigations be

breath, swollen legs or discomfort when lying down.

needed, we can quickly organise them – thanks to our excellent relationship with Innsbruck University Hospital

Gartner: At the Parkhotel Igls we offer heart examinations

and various other clinics.

as part of the Super Medical Check. We use ECGs, ergometric stress testing and echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) to measure cardiac performance and

6

Maintaining a healthy heart

Medical Director Dr Peter Gartner in conversation with consultant cardiologist Dr Norbert Schauer (right)

What are the chances of recovery?

So nutrition has a major part to play?

Schauer: Heart disease can be managed very well

Schauer: It has a huge part to play. I cannot emphasise

nowadays. More than anything else, we have become very

enough that there is nothing wrong with eating delicious

good at prevention, especially in terms of minimising risk

food as long as we adhere to certain basic principles in

factors. These include stress, lack of exercise, high

order to prevent lifestyle diseases.

blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and familial hypercholesterolaemia, a genetic condition characterised by

Gartner: A valuable insight we gain from Mayr comes

higher than normal levels of LDL cholesterol. It's

into play here. For a long time, conventional medicine

impossible to say that there is a single risk factor that

was aware of fat’s effect in the diet, but barely gave

causes heart attacks, but the causes exponentiate. Hence,

protein a second thought. A century ago, however, Dr FX

if I have three of these factors, my risk of contracting

Mayr already saw things quite differently, and today we

cardiovascular disease is not three times higher but

know that too much protein in the diet can trigger

ninefold. This is why we aim to bring everything into

circulatory disorders. Since the body does not excrete

balance.

proteins, it has to decompose them. What we call

Negative cycles are further factors that we underestimate

'congestion' is likely to be protein diluted in water, which

at our peril. For instance, when we're stressed we choose

is stored temporarily somewhere in the connective tissue.

unhealthy foods, eat too much and too late in one go,

This increases hydrostatic pressure in the connective

smoke excessively, don’t take time for exercise, etc.

tissue and blood vessels, and hinders the supply of

Similarly, when we're overweight we feel uncomfortable

oxygen to surrounding organs as well as the elimination

in our bodies, stop enjoying our workouts, become

of toxins. Your daily steak may be as lean as lean can be,

frustrated, and are even more inclined to eat the wrong

but it certainly won't do your health much good.

foods. As a result we develop hypertension, etc.

7

Maintaining a healthy heart

How has the medical view of risk factors changed in recent years?

What is the link between bowel function and the cardiovascular system?

Schauer: Today we know that cholesterol levels do not

Gartner: The diaphragm separates the abdomen from the

change in a linear relationship with eating habits. We

chest cavity, but all the organs in the abdominal cavity

inherit cholesterol levels genetically, so when a person

are connected to the diaphragm and the lungs. Abdominal

has a high cholesterol level from birth, the body will try to

content that is too heavy affects the quality of breathing.

maintain that level throughout their lifetime. The liver

By treating the abdomen we enable the patient to breathe

is the centre of production for cholesterol, which we

better.

need for cell wall synthesis. The less we ingest, the more the liver synthesises – which is why the guilty con-

Schauer: This link also means that a person with mild

science we've been talked into having is unjustified.

coronary vasoconstriction can develop true angina with chest pain if the stomach contents

Gartner: This is confirmed by a recent

push the heart upwards and twist it

meta-analysis, which showed that diet

– known as the Roemheld syndrome.

can lower cholesterol by no more than

Another example is reflux. The

3.5%. Exercise medicine, on the other

oesophagus runs just past the back

hand, has proven to be a highly effective

of the heart and passes through the

method.

diaphragm into the stomach. If after a stressful day you quickly gulp

Schauer: We also know that drugs, i.e.

down a lot of food in the evening,

statins, are effective, and this is measu-

the reflux in the oesophagus presses

rable. Furthermore, the development of

the diaphragm apart and pushes the

vascular changes is an inflammatory

left atrium. This can cause cardiac

process, and statins appear to have an

arrhythmia and atrial fibrillation. In

anti-inflammatory effect. They act on

addition to these direct connections

the vessels' inner skin, thus preventing

between the gut and heart problems,

plaque ruptures that lead to coronaries.

there are also indirect coherences that we have yet to fully unravel.

Gartner: Linseed oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect and lowers LDL cholesterol levels. The same effect is

Gartner: Another common problem is trapped wind,

attributed to olive oil, which is effective against cardiac

which can arise when people have a particularly 'healthy'

arrhythmias, lowers blood pressure, and stabilises cell

evening meal like a big plate of salad. The food only

membranes.

travels as far as the small intestine where it stops and begins to ferment. The resulting fermentation ethanol damages the intestinal mucosa, and fermentation gases

Is there a special diet for heart health?

can collect like a balloon on the left side of the upper abdomen just below the heart. This pressure is caused by

Gartner: We recommend eating everything because one-

flatulence, but is well known for putting the fear of God

sided nutrition is neither natural nor healthy. Our core

into people who attribute these night-time attacks to

message is that the 'how' is as important as the 'what'.

acute heart problems.

People come to the Parkhotel Igls to relearn how to eat, and restore the digestive system's functionality by proper mastication. When you’re putting a meal together, we advise that you fill the plate with a large serving of vegetables, a small amount of carbohydrates and a small piece of meat; but definitely no sauce.

8

Was das Herz gesund erhält

How do you apply exercise medicine?

Gartner: Exercise medicine is based on the findings of

specific exercises. This is effective when the cells have

medical kinesiology, and aims to increase both life

space for the formation of mitochondria and there is no

expectancy and quality of life. If the findings of a

excessive accumulation of lactate. A good rule is to

cardiological examination indicate a lack of exercise, we

exercise at a fast pace but still be able to talk.

put together a programme of tailormade, moderate aerobic exercises. These tend to surprise many of our

Gartner: Yes, the mitochondria play a major role. These

patients who equate exercise with hard work, but we like

are small cellular organs or organelles that supply cellular

them to work out at a level that ranges between 'tiring'

energy. Specific exercises cause them to multiply, which

and 'comfortable'.

in turn leads to the ageing process being improved in line with an individual's genetic make-up. Exercise is

Schauer: Exercise is particularly suitable for guests who

the only thing that deserves to be called 'anti-ageing'.

have not yet developed target organ damage such as

However, many people's lifestyle makes them age faster

a thickened heart muscle. For instance, if we identify

than their genes have provided for.

hypertension, we don’t recommend medicines, but

9

Maintaining a healthy heart

How do you get people to change their lifestyle?

What kind of support can you provide?

Gartner: Basically, we’re all lazy by nature. Expecting

Gartner: At the Parkhotel Igls, the physicians, psycho-

someone to change 100% would be unrealistic, and

logists and exercise instructors take time to engage with

probably unhealthy too. I consider it a great success

each individual. Many guests, for instance, come to us

when our guests take a few of our recommendations on

with the aim of giving up smoking. This is so much easier

board and integrate them into their daily lives. This is

to achieve when you can bring in talk therapy, plenty of

also where the psychologists at the Parkhotel Igls are

exercise, and acupuncture to dampen withdrawal

very helpful. They get together with the guests to work

symptoms.

out strategies to combat their 'inner couch potato'.

What do your patients take away from their stay?

Schauer: For this to work you need empathy and understanding. We all like to take it easy. I enjoy participating in sports, and can confirm that it's perfectly all right to be self-centred and to let your body enjoy the

Schauer: Our guests really appreciate the great aftercare.

benefits of exercise. It is also a good idea to find out what

When they come here they find a host of medical check-

people enjoy. Are they interested in meditative activities

ups under one roof. They recognise that we carefully

or do they prefer the social aspects of team sports? We

consider their treatment. After all, any cardiologist worth

can't expect a complete change of lifestyle, but maybe we

their salt aims to be able to detect the moment when

can get people to reduce their stress levels from 'full

surgery becomes inevitable. Guests often travel from far

throttle' to second gear.

away for their annual follow-up because they appreciate the quality of our medical care.

Gartner: Modern Mayr Medicine demonstrates to people that it is important to live healthily but without the need

Gartner: I agree that aftercare is very important, partly

for asceticism.

because we develop relationships with the guests. So, if they like, we can call them a few months after their stay to enquire about their health. This creates a relationship of trust.

10

Consultant at the Parkhotel Igls

Dr Norbert Schauer Dr Schauer studied medicine at the University of Innsbruck, completing his training in internal medicine at Innsbruck University Hospital and Kufstein Hospital. After training as a cardiologist in Wels, Norbert Schauer worked as a senior physician with Prof Otmar Pachinger at Innsbruck University Hospital until 1999 when he opened his own cardiology pra足 ctice. Flying is one of his passions.

He is a professional pilot, acts as an Aeromedical Examiner for the Austrian air traffic control company Austro Control GmbH, and holds the post of Secretary General of the Austrian Academy of Aerospace Medicine.

Dr Schauer is married and has three children.

11

Auf den Geschmack gekommen

12

ACQUIRING A TASTE FOR FASTING Fasting is good for our bodies, minds and souls. Humanity has learned this by experience over many centuries, but it is also a scientifically proven fact.

There is a 'side effect' of fasting, however, to which little attention has been paid: it is a practise that sharpens and sensitises our taste buds, thereby enhancing our pleasure in everyday life.

Do you know the story of Gilles Demmonget? A feared

Nevertheless, there is some truth to this story: fasting

restaurant critic, he picks chefs to pieces like plucked

allows us to perceive flavours with greater intensity

bouquets garnis and deflates careers like punctured

and differentiation – even weeks and months after

soufflĂŠs. Having lost his sense of taste after an accidental

completing a fast. This has been confirmed by a study

blow to the head, he books into a fasting clinic on the

with two groups of subjects conducted by the

North Sea island of Sylt in an effort to regain his most

physiologist Yuriy Zverev: while one group went hungry,

precious tool. We shall only mention in passing that this

the other continued eating as usual. Prior to the

is where he meets his nearest competitor, an obnoxious

experiment, all the participants had been given the

investigative reporter, a former lover, some rather

same dish to eat and generally agreed on its flavour

strange fellow patients, and an attractive nutritionist.

intensity. Afterwards, the ratings diverged significantly.

The story's happy ending is of principal interest:

'After fasting, our sense of taste reacts much more

Demmonget not only finds the love of his life, but also

sensitively to sweetness and saltiness than before', is

his sense of taste, which has become keener than ever.

how Zverev summarised his findings.

This may all appear somewhat contrived, but then Gilles Demmonget is just a fictional character in the German movie 'Fasten Ă la carte'...

13

Fasting for the senses

This seems obvious once you consider that the sense of

After this kind of 'culinary holiday', our guests are more

taste, like all our senses, is exposed to constant stimuli

mindful of the foods they eat and more attentive to

and therefore becomes duller over time in 'self-defense'

flavours. After a fasting programme individuals can

and as an adapting mechanism. This development is

sometimes experience that their favourite dishes have

accelerated by the excessive consumption of fast

become almost unpalatable, as they discover previously

foods, alcohol, nicotine, and the flavour enhancers in

rejected – and healthier – food options. This effect is long

convenience foods. When these stimuli are scaled down

lasting and can also lead to the more rapid onset of

by reducing food intake to zero or to consciously

satiety to continue for a long time.

selected, natural foods – as in Modern Mayr cuisine – our sense of taste is able to recover from 'overdoing' it.

It is no wonder then that many celebrity chefs, sommeliers and restaurant critics indulge in regular downtime. You

At the Health Retreat Parkhotel Igls, this process

can read how they fare during – and especially after –

is further enhanced because our guests have taken

fasting in the next issue of ParkZeit.

time out specifically to pay more attention to their bodies, allow themselves plenty of time for meals, and, for a while, have renounced the sensory overload of ordinary life.

14

Fasting for the senses

A matter of good taste: Although we all have at least 2,000 taste buds, we are able to recognise and distinguish only five flavours: sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami – a Japanese term that can be trans­lated as 'pleasant savoury taste'.

Scientists are still trying to establish whether there is a sixth sense of taste for 'fatty'.

As we grow older, our taste buds decrease in numbers. Infants have around 10,000 – explaining why they can be so averse to certain foods. By the time we are elderly the number of taste buds has general­ly reduced to approximately 2,000 – which in turn explains why many older people don’t enjoy their food. However, the threshold at which a taste is detected differs from person to person.

If you would like to try this yourself, add 0.5g, 1g, 2g, 3g and 4g of sugar to five 1 litre bottles of water.

Most of us start to taste the sweetness at 2g of sugar per litre.

Salt begins to be distinguishable at 1g per litre. The perceptibility threshold of bitter substances lies at 4mg per litre, making sense from an evolutionary point of view because 'bitter' can often mean 'toxic'.

Our tip: Try this test just before and just after your next fast – the result will surprise you!

15

The heat of the matter In physics, heat is simply energy in transfer due to a temperature difference between two thermodynamic systems.

Less scientifically, however, warmth (heat) also conveys feelings of love and security. There is much more to heat: it also has healing properties.

16

Healing heat

It is a curious fact that while the human body perceives body temperatures in excess of 38°C as a threat, thus activating the immune system and increasing the release of stress hormones, we are also aware – at least since the discovery of fire – that heat is intrinsically bound up with health and wellbeing.

Whether a Roman tepidarium, Native American sweat lodge or Finnish sauna – every culture has developed its own way of using heat to relieve pain, relax tissue, strengthen the immune system and cleanse the body.

Additional 'heat sources' available to guests at the

Over the centuries this knowledge has been endlessly

Parkhotel Igls include a Finnish sauna, bio-sauna, steam

researched and developed. Nowadays, we take thermal

room and infrared cabins – some rooms have their own

applications for granted, and the range of available

infrared cabins too. As much as they differ with respect

therapies – including at the Parkhotel Igls – is astounding.

to temperature, humidity and application time, they all work on similar principles: heating the body activates the

Take, for instance, the classic liver compress: moist heat

immune system and increases pathogen-deflecting

stimulates blood flow to the liver thereby naturally

leukocytes in the blood. In addition, perspiration

enhancing the detoxification process. Another example is

strengthens

the

heart

the metabolic detox bath, which is wonderfully re-

and

circulation

because

stimulating the metabolism and thermally inducing

products as well as other

There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them.

harmful substances. Equally

Sylvia Plath, american writer, 1932–1963

work a little harder, which

laxing in the cold season and rids the body of waste

effective are Schiele circu­

dilation of the capillaries leads to increased blood flow. This 'forces' the heart to gives it a gentle workout.

lation baths. During these soothing footbaths the water

In addition, saunas, steam baths and other heat sources

temperature is gradually increased from 35°C to 45°C.

improve muscle elasticity, provide relief from tension,

This significantly improves blood flow to the skin as well

and are beneficial when mobility is reduced. Plenty of

as several internal organs, and supports the digestive

good reasons for some healing heat – especially after a

system's regeneration.

long walk in the cool autumnal air.

Heat can be just as effective without water, as

Speaking of 'healing', heat also has a significant effect on

substantiated by our hay flowers and moor heat packs:

our emotional state. Psychologist Chen-Bo Zhong from

the heated moor mud contains anti-inflammatory and

the University of Toronto conducted an experiment in

analgesic ingredients that relieve the symptoms of

which students were asked to remember a situation

arthritis and chronic joint diseases, and the hot bag of

when they had felt isolated and marginalised. These

hay has a detoxifying effect when placed on the area of

students experienced the ambient temperature as two

the gallbladder, liver and intestine.

degrees lower than the participants who envisioned a positive social experience in the same environment.

'Cold-hearted egomaniac' and 'warm-hearted philan­ thrope'? Clearly, these metaphors are more than just empty phrases.

Or, as the Austrian writer Ernst Ferstl put it, 'Human warmth is and remains our most effective energy source'.

Food for thought as you relax by our open fire with a nice hot cup of tea ...

17

THE DIAGNOSTICS GUIDE Medical services under one roof

18

Diagnostics

Medical diagnostic methods carried out at the Parkhotel Igls:

Mobility & strength check An assessment of your musculo-

U

skeletal system as a whole

Urea breath test

is important to correct errors

To test for Helicobacter pylori

in your learned movement patterns

bacteria, the individual is

and avoid one-sided overloading.

given a test solution mixed with a

We strongly recommend that active

small quantity of urea to drink.

H

sportspersons, as well as anyone

If there is an infection, the urease

starting out or returning to sport and

enzyme splits the urea and

exercise, has the mobility &

easily detectable, non-radioactive

Hydrogen breath test

strength check.

carbon isotope 13C, which is also contained in the test solution,

This test allows us to diagnose lactose, fructose and sorbitol

Muscle function test

malabsorption. The method

Like the mobility & strength check,

is painless but takes time – you

the muscle function test forms

Urinalysis

should expect such a test to

part of our physiotherapeutic

A urinalysis can provide indication of

take around two hours.

diagnostic procedures. Its aim is

possible urinary tract infections,

to identify muscle imbalances

chronic kidney inflammations,

at an early stage in order to

tumour diseases, and diabetes.

L

counteract them by preventive measures.

Laboratory blood testing A tiny jab that gives us a great deal of valuable information: a single 4ml syringe of blood is sufficient for up to

O

40 different clinical tests. The lab

Oral glucose tolerance test

will test either the blood serum, blood

This test determines how well

plasma or the whole blood, depend­-

the body processes glucose.

ing on requirements.

A baseline blood sample is drawn, and the individual is given a dextrose

M

solution to drink. Further blood is

Medical history

diabetes precursors.

then drawn for measurement at intervals to screen for diabetes and

Knowledge of a guest’s medical history is vital before any treatment can be recommended. During consultation with a physician we find

S

out about any current

Spirometry

complaints, specific predispositions

The aim of spirometry is to detect

and genetic risk factors you

lung and respiratory diseases

may have. Your medical history

as early as possible and to check

and analysing your personal

the effectiveness of therapies already

lifestyle and circumstances are

being applied. The individual breathes

important components of

in and out of the spirometer's

this process.

mouthpiece and follows a set of instructions.

19

is exhaled.

Diagnostics

Medical diagnostic methods carried out by external consultants at the Parkhotel Igls:

E

Urological examination and

ENT examination

Because men's health is a major

Key ENT diagnostic methods include

priority at the Parkhotel Igls we

nasal and laryngeal function tests,

have developed a special diagnostic

allergy tests, hearing and balance

module, which includes male

tests, and imaging investigations such

hormone screening and an andro-

as ultrasound tests and X-rays.

logy consultation, as well as a

andrology consultation

muscle function test, ultrasound test,

C

Eye examination

Cardiac investigations

pressure and is chiefly used

Our standard heart-related diagnostic

in evaluating patients who are at

procedures include ECGs, exercise

risk of developing glaucoma.

Vascular investigations

ECGs and echocardiography (cardiac

This is when the balance between

In addition to checking the pulse

ultrasound test). ECGs represent

the production and drainage

manually and listening to blood

the heart's activity as curves.

of aqueous humour is disturbed.

vessels with a stethoscope, blood

Changes in these curves can provide

The aqueous humour builds up,

vessels can also be tested with

the examining physician with

causing an increase in intraocular

injected contrast agents, peripheral

evidence of problems such as heart

pressure and thus can lead

venous pressure measurements,

attacks, myocardial inflammation,

to optic nerve damage and even

Doppler sonography, duplex ultra-

atrial fibrillation, and diseases of

blindness.

sound and a treadmill ergometer test.

ECG and cardiogram.

Ocular tonometry is a procedure performed to measure intraocular

the coronary vessels. During exercise ECG tests, these values are measured while the individual undergoes additional physical exertion on a

V

Your doctor can advise which is the

U

most sensible diagnostic tool for you.

treadmill or exercise bike.

Ultrasonography

Echocardiograms are sonograms

Of all diagnostic procedures,

of the heart and also show the thick-

ultrasound testing is by far the

ness of ventricle and atrium walls,

gentlest method, as it involves

heart valve structure and the heart's

no X-rays. Furthermore, recent

pumping capacity.

developments in 3D tissue imaging and the excellent image

D

resolution that is achievable nowa-

Dermatological testing

in areas such as the prostate,

A dermoscopy is a thorough visual

bladder or breast. We also use

examination to check moles,

ultrasound examinations for the

birthmarks and other skin lesions,

abdominal organs, joints and

and is helpful in distinguishing

blood vessels that supply the brain.

days enable us to detect even the slightest suspect tissue change

between benign and malign lesions.

20

Diagnostics

External diagnostic procedures: –– X-rays –– CT scans –– MRI scans –– Examination by respiratory consultant –– Sleep diagnostics –– Gastroscopy –– Colonoscopy

Where necessary, complementary therapies and less common conventional medical interventions can also be made available:

K Kinesiology testing Hippocrates was able to diagnose neurological injuries with kinesiology muscle testing! This method is based on the assumption that any type of physical or mental stress also affects the muscles and can be measured via direct muscle resistance.

L

B

Live blood analysis

Bioimpedance measurement

blood cells and requires a drop

Bioimpedance measurement allows

of blood to be analysed immediately

us to determine the proportion

after it has been taken from the

of water, fat and muscle mass in the

individual. The aim of this

body. A small, harmless, electric

investigation is to detect and treat

current is passed through the body

degenerative tendencies in the

and the opposition to the flow in

blood that may be early warning

different tissue types is measured.

signs that all is not well. This

The results can then be used to

technique is particularly effective

calculate the body fat to weight ratio.

for revealing overacidification,

Live blood analysis is the use of dark field microscopy to observe live

excessive amounts of protein, dehy-

F

dration and variations in blood flow.

Food allergy blood testing for type III hypersensitivity

O

Type III sensitivity refers to delayed

Oxidative stress measurement

allergic reactions – usually 6–12

The tiny particles in blood that

hours after contact with allergens –

are responsible for the ageing process

that often express themselves in

by attacking and damaging the

inflammations that are atypical for

body's cells are known as free radicals.

allergies. Our test is particularly

The formation of free radicals is

effective in detecting these kinds

encouraged by UV radiation

of allergies.

and ozone, but also by poor nutrition as well as alcohol and nicotine consumption. We offer oxidative stress measurement to determine the level of free radicals in an individual's blood and, where appropriate, reduce it with the help of vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants.

21

Back trouble Racked with pain and bent double, she dragged herself to her car.

Three minutes earlier, all had been well: blue sky, lovely surroundings, and great company on the driving range. Then the slipped disc happened – just like that. When this happens, getting pain relief is the first priority, and this is where neural therapy is known to be highly effective.

The golf ball had landed exactly where she wanted it to

acute back pain. Yet when they are, a simple movement

be – a storybook shot. However, her joy was soon eclipsed

that puts stress on the spine – as in the golfing example

by the terrible pain in her back, and the doctor confirmed

above – can trigger the pain.

that she had suffered a slipped (or herniated) disc. The lower spine and the neck are the areas most susceptible

As the back's central retaining and mobilising tool, the

to painful disc problems, and the vertebrae's 'shock

human spine needs to be highly resilient and able to

absorbers' in the thoracic area can also herniate,

withstand a great deal of pressure to enable it to support

although this is less common.

a significant amount of the body's weight.

The spine also allows the trunk to twist and move. There

Two out of three are affected

are 23 intervertebral discs in the human spine. Similar to

Back pain is no stranger to the Austrian population. Two

liquid-filled cushions, they provide mobility to the

out of three suffer from back pain at least once in their

vertebrae and act as shock absorbers. As we age, these

lives. This pattern is repeated in many other countries,

shock absorbers wear down, and the fibrous ring that

which is why back pain is often referred to as a 'pandemic'.

surrounds each disc can become brittle. If this ring tears,

Contrary to popular belief, however, the intervertebral

it releases its gel-like centre, the nucleus pulposus, into the

discs are not always the culprits when it comes to

surrounding tissue. This is what is meant by a slipped disc.

The annulus fibrosus.

If this ring tears, it releases its gel-like centre, the nucleus pulposus, into the surrounding tissue.

This is what is meant by a slipped disc.

Intervertebral discs are like liquid-filled cushions that allow flexibility and act like shock absorbers.

Nucleus pulposus

22

Slipped discs 'This is not an unusual event. In fact, it's a typical sign of wear, which is detectable in almost everyone over thirty.

That isn’t what causes the pain. When the leaked nucleus pulposus puts pressure on the spinal cord or a nerve – that’s when pain ensues and it can be excruciating’, says Dr Martin Winkler. The erstwhile and long-time Medical Director of the Parkhotel Igls is a sought-after specialist in the field of neural therapy, and in four decades of medical practice he has seen a great deal of pain.

Dr Winkler has also freed more than 4,000 patients from pain with the help of neural therapy. Back pain sufferers still make the pilgrimage to Igls to see him because, as the physician confirms, neural therapy is successful in 90 percent of cases. Obviously, the primary attraction of the Parkhotel Igls is the fasting and digestive cleansing, but Dr Winkler adds, ‘When we take their medical history, many guests tell us that they suffer twinges in the spinal

options for back pain.'

Neural therapy at the Parkhotel Igls

Finding the seat of the pain

Neural therapy is a combination of trigger point

After a thorough clinical examination, a neural therapist

treatment, mesotherapy and intracutaneous

dealing with acute lower back pain is primarily concerned

injections. Trigger points are palpable nodules in

with three things: localising the pain, relieving the pain,

taut bands of muscle fibres. They are sensitive

and restoring the patient's mobility. In cases of acute

to pressure and can cause local or radiating pain.

herniated discs patients are often unable even to lie

To manage persistent muscle tension, pressure

down without pain. 'Anyone who has ever experienced

is applied to these points until the pain subsides.

severe back pain is able to tell you a thing or two about it.

Mesotherapy is a gentle naturopathic therapy

It doesn't matter whether the cause is lumbago, a chronic

during which natural active ingredients

rheumatic disease, or a slipped or bulging disc', says

are incorporated into the skin layer by means

Dr Winkler. 'At the Parkhotel Igls every diagnostic option

of superficial microinjections using very fine

is pursued to get to the bottom of the pain and, if

needles. Intracutaneous injections are analgesic

necessary, we will even resort to an MRI scan.'

injections directly under the skin above the

area. This happens with around 65 percent of our guests, so that is why we offer many diagnostic and therapeutic

affected part of the spine.

What to do in an emergency Should you see a physiotherapist, sit it out, go to an orthopaedic specialist, a radiologist, or have infiltration treatment? There are so many options, and back pain sufferers tend to be bombarded with advice from friends

Dr Martin Winkler, specialist in neural therapy at the Parkhotel Igls

and relatives. If there is evidence of severe nerve compression, or if symptoms are very severe, surgery might have to be considered. The specialist advises that, 'Pain, however severe, is always a warning sign. This is why it is so vital to find the cause, and a specialist should be consulted as quickly as possible’. Fast pain relief and anti-inflammatory treatments are the absolute priority in acute cases, and this is where Dr Winkler has found neural therapy extremely effective.

23

A visit to an ostrich farm

A GIANT AMONG BIRDS at Parkhotel Igls. European

Ruthlessly hunted by man, the bird

demand for ostrich meat rocketed

was becoming fairly rare when

following the outbreak of the

ostrich farming began, and without

dreaded 'mad cow disease' and since

domestication and farming the

then many of us have learned to

ostrich would now be extinct.

appreciate its qualities.

Originally from the Steppes of Central Asia, the majestic birds spread to the

More than 100 ostriches are

countries of the Mediterranean

kept at the Styrian family farm in

and then to Africa. They are able to

Mooskirchen that supplies the

survive long periods of drought

Parkhotel Igls. The birds have adapted

and can travel across deserts because

to our climate and are clearly

all their fluid requirements are

very happy. Their primary diet of

met by their food, and they do not

plants and seeds is appropriate

need additional water.

for the species, and they also have a generous outdoor area to run

The ostrich – a relative of the smaller

in. In addition the Styrian ostrich

Australian emu – is the largest

meat contains no antibiotics.

bird on earth, weighing up to 150kg,

'The ostriches seemed to be curious,

Its aromatic flavour is most like beef,

and can live for up to 70 years.

and came up to the fence to

although nutritionally the meat

It is unable to fly, but thanks to its

nudge us with their beaks', recalls

is similar to other poultry. In Europe,

powerful legs it can reach speeds

a member of the Parkhotel Igls

ostrich meat was not 'discovered'

kitchen brigade following a visit to

until the 1980s, although apparently

the Vötsch ostrich farm in Styria.

Hildegard von Bingen appreciated

The ostriches were clearly trying to

its healthy properties way back in the

'get a feel' of their visitors. Chef

12th century. It is low in fat, chole-

Markus Sorg and team visited the

sterol, sodium, and saturated

farm to confirm that these

fatty acids, but high in iron, protein

grand animals are kept in species-

and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

appropriate conditions – vital for producing prime quality meat.

The ostrich has always been prized

Ostrich meat is super-healthy,

for its meat, feathers, eggs and

and of course has pride of place on

leather, as is evidenced by ancient

the Parkhotel Igls menu. We also

Egyptian images of ostrich husbandry.

feel that minimising food miles is

During the 18th century, ostrich

extremely important, so only

feathers were used to decorate the

Austrian reared ostrich meat is used

hats of fashionable European ladies.

24

of up to 70km per hour, and is able to maintain a constant speed of 50km per hour for around half an hour. The animals are easily startled and will run from any perceived threat. They prefer open landscapes where they can keep watch for predators, and are able to discern movements at distances of up to 3.5 kilometres. The animals mostly

There are clear hierarchies

Styrian ostrich meat salad with mushrooms

within groups, and disputes about

Serves 2 as a starter

live in loose groups or form a harem during the breeding season.

rank rarely lead to fights since warning sounds and behaviour usually

Ingredients:

suffice. Males, distinguishable

160g ostrich steak

by their black plumage, can sound

80g fennel

a bit like roaring lions and are

80g root parsley including leaves

particularly belligerent during the breeding season. Males and their 'major hens' cooperate in raising chicks. When threatened they can cause serious injury and death with kicks from their powerful

80g radishes 80g wild mushrooms in season (e.g. chanterelles, button, oyster and porcini mushrooms) Zest & juice of 1 lime Pumpkin seed oil

legs. Their sharp claws are powerful

Maple syrup

weapons, and the force of their

1–2 tbsp grated horseradish

massive bodies is enough to floor a

Rapeseed oil for frying

man. It is advisable, therefore,

Salt & pepper

to treat these extraordinary animals with great care and respect.

To prepare: Cut vegetables and meat into elongated, bite-size pieces and heat the pan without adding any oil to it. Place the meat in the hot pan until it begins to detach from the pan. Add a dash of oil and briefly fry the meat on all sides, then remove from the pan. Heat the root parsley, fennel and radishes in the frying juices. Add a splash of oil and toss over medium heat. Reduce the heat further, add the mushrooms, and fry gently for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt & pepper. As soon as the mushrooms release their essential oils and juices, switch off the hob and stir in the meat as well as approximately 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and

Chef Markus Sorg in conversation at the Vötsch ostrich farm

the freshly grated lime zest. Mix in the lime juice and 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil and garnish with fresh parsley.

Did you know that...

Did you know that… ... people today spend up to 90% of their day indoors?

This is a cause of chronic light deficiency and disrupts the body clock. Depending on the weather and the phases of the moon, outdoor illuminance fluctuates between 10,000 and 100,000 lux. However, the codes and regulations for office lighting require only 500 lux at computer workstations, which is equivalent to the light levels at sunrise or sunset.

... inflammations of the gastrointestinal tract can lead to inflamed connective tissue in the vascular system and muscles? The health and functionality of the musculoskeletal system is closely linked to a healthy digestive tract. FX Mayr understood this.

... rest days as well as intensity are required for efficient endurance training? This is how the beneficial, health-promoting effects of exercising come into play.

... two thirds of our 'civilisation syndromes' are down to lifestyle? So why not make the change from an unhealthy routine to a healthy way of life?

... stress and anxiety can manifest

... the skin becomes hypersensitive

as muscle tension, energy blockages

during the detoxification process?

and chronic pain? Specialised

Skin is one of the channels through

treatments such as craniosacral

which purification,

therapy provide valuable assistance

deacidification and the evacuation

in releasing blockages and restoring

of toxic substances occurs.

mobility, while also supporting a general process of regeneration.

Imprint Responsible for content: Gesundheitszentrum Igls GmbH, Igler Str. 51, 6080 Innsbruck-Igls Tel +43 512 377 305 Fax +43 512 379 225 info@parkhotel-igls.at www.parkhotel-igls.at

Editorial Andrea Gnägi MAG, Dr Peter Gartner, Claudia Reichenberger, Michael Weiss, Jörg Bertram, Helene Forcher MAG, Dr Norbert Schauer, Ingrid Striednig, Markus Sorg

Concept and design Studio Roth&Maerchy, Zürich

Copy editing Erika Krammer-Riedl, Mattsee

Photography/Illustrations Jack Coble, Ingrid Striednig, Markus Sorg, Monica Maerchy, Klaus Defner, Fred Einkemmer

Circulation 2,500 © September 2015 Printed on Cyclus Print 100% recycled fibres in compliance with Blue Angel ecolabel – RAL UZ-14

Offers & treatment modules overview

Therapeutic modules THE BASIC PROGRAMME € 896 Forms the basis of our treatment service and is an integral part of every treatment module MAYR CLASSIC Get to know Modern Mayr Medicine

€ 1,149

MAYR INTENSIVE For a thorough detox and optimal health results

€ 1,528

MAYR DE-STRESS Slow down and restore your energy flow

€ 1,729

MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM Treatment of back disorders, restores mobility

€ 1,520

HEART & CIRCULATION Positive effect on risk factors such as stress, excess weight and high blood pressure

€ 1,632

METABOLISM & DETOX For food intolerances, allergies, burnout and sleep disorders

€ 1,730

Special offer DETOX ON THE RUN

€ 1,434

Special offer Kybun®@Mayr

€ 1,327

Special offer MODERN MAYR MEDICAL CHECK

€ 3,567

Diagnostic module SUPER MEDICAL CHECK

€ 2,067

Diagnostic module MEN'S MEDICAL CHECK

€ 2,431

Diagnostic module PREVENTATIVE ULTRASOUND

Accommodation rates Single rooms € 151 – 340 Double rooms* € 146 – 246 Suites* € 269 – 386 Parkhotel Suite (for up to 5 people) € 1,170

Prices are per night per person; treatments are not included. *For single occupancy on request.

Discounts: 5 % for stays of 2 weeks 10% for stays of 3 weeks or more

Closed for refurbishments

€ 998

Prices are per person per week and exclude room rates.

Prices for additional weeks on request.

Prices and services valid from 27 Dec 2015 to 18 Dec 2016

The Parkhotel Igls will be closed for remodelling and renovation between 13 and 26 December 2015. However, you will be able to contact us by telephone. We will reopen on 27 December, and look forward to welcoming you.

27

Slow down, decelerate & de-stress 'More haste, less speed' is an ancient proverb, but only now are we realising that slowing down and finding effective strategies to counterbalance the overload in our working and personal lives is vital for wellbeing.

At the Parkhotel Igls we developed the Mayr De-Stress treatment module to address precisely this issue.

With the help of coaching sessions, relaxation exercises and soothing treatments you’ll learn how to deal with everyday life with less stress and use your skills more efficiently and effectively.

Treatment module Mayr De-Stress The Basic Programme* 2 craniosacral therapy (50 mins each) 2 talk therapy/coaching sessions (50 mins each) 4 combination heat packs (hay flowers and moor) 4 partial body massages – primarily acupressure & connective tissue massages (25 mins each) €1,729 for 1 week, each additional week €1,626, Price applicable from 27 Dec 2015, excludes accommodation

*The Basic Programme Medical services –– Initial examination – integrated health check (30 mins) –– 1 medical examination – manual abdominal treatment (20 mins) –– Concluding examination (30 mins) Basic services –– Daily Kneipp treatments (leg, arm or seated contrast baths) –– Personal Modern Mayr cuisine diet plan –– Mineral water, herbal tea and base broth –– Group exercise sessions, active and passive anti-stress exercises (relaxation), lifestyle management and mental coaching –– Lectures –– Use of swimming pool, sauna and panoramic gym

Parkhotel Igls | Health is Central | Igler Strasse 51 | 6080 Innsbruck-Igls | Austria Tel +43 512 377 305 | Fax +43 512 379 225 | info@parkhotel-igls.at | www.parkhotel-igls.at