Diagnostics Tests

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)

The REEVUE machine measures the oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced by the body. This number, in turn, is used to calculate the number of calories that an individual burns at rest in a 24-hour period. This technique is called Indirect Calorimetry. The REEVUE can be used for any patient where a measurement of metabolic rate or oxygen uptake (VO2) will be useful, including weight management and nutritional assessment services. Breathing into this portable machine for ten minutes provides a quick and accurate result for RMR. (Length of Time: 10 minutes)

Bioelectrical Impedence Analysis (BIA)

Body Composition Testing

The human body is made up of water, fat, protein, carbohydrates and a variety of vitamins and minerals. A high percentage of body fat, particularly excess abdominal fat, increases the risk for health problems, including: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Obesity is now recognized as a major, independent risk factor for heart disease. Successful weight loss and weight loss maintenance can significantly reduce the risk for heart disease.

Waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) are indirect ways to assess body composition, while BIA is a more direct measure. The BIA test will measure body composition electronically by assessing fluid and tissue compartments to determine fat-free mass and fat mass. Body fat percentage is often a better marker of nutrition status and health risks than total body scale weight. (Length of Time: less than 5 minutes)

Bone Density

A bone mineral density (BMD) test is the best way to determine bone health. The test can identify osteoporosis, determine risk for fractures (broken bones), and quantify responses to osteoporosis treatment. The most widely recognized BMD test is called a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DXA test. It is painless, similar to having an X-ray. This test measures body density of the hand. (Length of Time: 1 minute)

Spirometry

Spirometry is a common Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) that measures lung function. The SBG Multi-function Spirometer is a highly versatile hand-held spirometer that provides measurements of Simple Spirometry, Flow Volume Loops, Maximum Voluntary Ventilation and Bronchial Challenge. In more general terms, it measures the speed and amount of air that is inhaled and exhaled, and can be used to asses conditions such as asthma and COPD that may affect lung function. (Length of Time: 1 minute)

The CV Profiler

This simple, painless, non-invasive, 5-minute procedure measures blood vessel elasticity to detect early vascular disease. Any abnormalities are graded by severity of elasticity deterioration. Follow-up testing can measure vascular response to Nutrition Therapy, smoking cessation, regular exercise and medications. This machine provides risk assessment in patients with diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

Nerve Conduction Testing

Nerve conduction studies are used mainly for evaluation of paresthesias (numbness, tingling, burning) and/or weakness of the arms and legs. The type of study required is dependent in part by the symptoms presented. A physical exam and thorough history also help to direct the investigation. Some of the common disorders which can be diagnosed by nerve conduction studies are:

• Peripheral neuropathy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Ulnar neuropathy
• Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
• Spinal disc herniation

(Length of Time: 10 minutes)

ANS Monitoring

Non-Invasive Autonomic Nervous System Monitoring is a fast, pain-free, and simple measure of health. ANS records heart rate variability, respiratory activity, and blood pressure readings. A computer then analyzes this data to determine how ANS is controlling the heart, lungs, and other body parts. The physician then interprets these computerized results. This is used with conditions including:

• Post-MI & other cardiac conditions
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Neurologic problems
• Syncope
• Pregnancy
• Anxiety/Stress
• Circulation problems

(Length of Time:18 minutes)

Digital Funduscopy

Funduscopy is an examination of the fundus, the back part of the eye’s interior, including the retina. It illuminates the back of the eye for examination by using a beam of light projected through an instrument called a funduscope. This is a valuable tool for detecting diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment of this condition can prevent vision loss and blindness. Funduscopy can also be used in diagnosing other eye conditions, such as glaucoma. It can be performed as part of a general physical examination. (Length of time: 1 minute)

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram (also called an echo) is a type of ultrasound test that uses high-pitched sound waves, which are sent through a device called a transducer. The device picks up echoes of the sound waves as they bounce off the different parts of the heart. These echoes are turned into moving pictures of the heart that can be seen on a video screen.

Echocardiograms can be used as part of a stress test and with an electrocardiogram (EKG) to help the physician monitor the heart more effectively. (Length of time: 10 minutes)

Carotid Doppler Ultrasound

Carotid Doppler Ultrasound (same machine as Echocardiogram) is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through the large carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain. These arteries can narrow due to arteriosclerosis or other causes and this can lead to TIA (mini-stroke) or CVA (stroke). This test can help doctors to determine stroke risk and help determine preventive measures. (Length of time: 10 minutes)