Health Conditions > See the Complete List

PANS and PANDAS are infection-induced autoimmune conditions that occur when our immune system mistakenly attacks normal body tissues because of the structural similarities between a particular molecule on an infectious agent and the molecules in our own body tissues. PANS and PANDAS cancause an onset of psychiatric/neurological symptoms including obsessive compulsive disorder, motor tics, anxiety, sleep disturbances, mood swings, irritability, anorexia, hyperactivity and urinary problems. PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) is associated with a variety of different infections whereas PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus) is specifically associated with streptococcal infection. 

The Stram Center has long recognized pediatric psychiatric presentations as having the potential for an infectious/autoimmune etiology. Unfortunately, some pediatricians do not understand that the root cause of their patient’s onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms can be the result of an immune reaction to a persistent, untreated chronic infection, will misdiagnose  and prescribe psychotropic medications to manage symptoms but this does nothing to treat the problem. PANS and PANDAS are clinical diagnoses therefore it is paramount that the doctor understands the etiology of these conditions. Assessing for the presence of a chronic infection is extremely important as well as testing for autoimmune titers which can provide information helpful in the clinical diagnosis. We have found in our own clinical experience, that in many cases, when given an appropriate antibiotic, patients presenting with PANS and PANDAS experience symptom resolution. 

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the central nervous system that leads to muscle stiffness, shaking, difficulty with balance, coordination, and walking. Often symptoms get worse over time, which leads to difficulties in talking and brain function. The central cause of Parkinson’s is loss of nerve cells in the brain called substantia nigra. Research in the Lyme Disease community has found that symptoms identical to Parkinson’s are found in chronic Lyme disease patients, who lacked proper treatment, including insufficient duration of therapy. Lyme disease is often called the great imitator for this reason.

At the Stram Center we aim to differentiate between Parkinson’s diagnosis from Lyme so that we can pursue appropriate treatment. Integrative Medicine protocols that include acupuncture and medical massage can reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s. Medical Marijuana, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a variety of IV therapies are important components of the wellness plan for reducing Parkinson’s symptoms.

Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. Psoriasis is a common, chronic disease that can flare up for weeks or months, then go into remission. The common causes are diet, environmental affects, genetics, strep throat, or chronic illnesses. The root cause must be delineated in order to have a successful treatment plan, which can include dietary and supplementation therapies, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. We have had much success at the Stram Center.

Seasonal allergies are an allergic response that happens during a specific season or change in weather. The common symptoms are itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, fever, and body aches. The overall cause occurs when outdoor molds release their spores, and trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen particles into the air. There are many natural ways to address seasonal allergies, including effective supplementation therapies that modulate or inhibit the immune response to allergens, identifying food triggers that can exacerbate symptoms and other modalities such as acupuncture and TCM.

There are two types of Thyroid imbalances: Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism, sometimes referred to as Hashimoto's,  is an underactive thyroid, meaning your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Issues associated include metabolic, heart rate, and body temperature disfunctions. Common symptoms include fatigue, cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, unexplained weight gain, and mood swings. Common causes stem from diet, untreated infections that can trigger an antibody response to the thyroid, and genetics. A high gluten diet can sometimes trigger hypothyroidism.  

Hyperthyroidism is an overproduction of thyroxine hormones. Issues associated include metabolism changes that can lead to unexpected or uncontrolled weight loss, diarrhea, rapid and irregular heartbeats, irritability, sweating, headaches, insomnia, increased perspiration, anxiety, heat intolerance, tremors and muscle weakness, and mood issues.  In extreme, untreated cases, one can develop bulging eyes (exopthalmus). The common causes are genetics, exposure to radiation, vitamin D deficiency, and increased iodine intake.

At the Stram Center the root cause must be determined. Is it a problem directly with the thyroid? The brain? The adrenals? Extensive testing is available at the Stram Center to elucidate the etiology and thereby selective management of the condition. Our success with thyroid issues comes with much clinical experience utilizing specific supplementation therapies, and medications when indicated.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of disability and death world-wide. TBI is characterized as a disruption in the normal function of the brain that stems from a bump, blow, jolt in the head, or penetrating head injury. The symptoms include headaches, vomiting or nausea, numbness, brain fog, fatigue, seizures, inability to sleep, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and dizziness. Severe cases can leave a person unable to function in life. Hyperbaric Oxgyen Therapy (HBOT) has been demonstrated to enhance the recovery from TBI and increase brain activity by reducing hypoxia, and inflammation, while increasing circulation in the brain, promoting neurogenesis and stimulating remyelination of nerve cells. Utilizing HBOT has been a great addition to our integrative therapies which include incorporating acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine and medical cannabis.

Excessive or sudden weight gain is considered a product of one’s environment (diet, exercise, lifestyle), hormonal of dysregulation, side effects of medication, specifically anti-depressants, steroids and others, and genetic factors. In some cases, there could be a serious underlying metabolic issue that causes sudden weight gain. General symptoms associated with weight gain are constipation, breathing issues, fatigue, hair loss, lethargy, swelling in the face, and abnormal menstrual cycles.

Sudden weight loss is considered voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary circumstances are exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes. Involuntary circumstances are chronic illnesses, hormonal imbalances, disease, cancer, or mental health issues. General symptoms associated with weight loss are hair loss, fatigue, lethargy, abdominal pain, and abnormal menstrual cycles. The reason for weight changes are examined from all the many points of view at the Stram Center. Treatment plans are customized and will always include dietary and nutrition guidance once the root cause is determined