As one ages, the body's enzymes supply decreases in amount and activity level. These decreases are at least partially responsible for the development of the characteristic symptoms of aging, or for premature aging. An example of this is the fact that the graying of hair has been attributed to a lack of tyrosinase, or a loss in activity of the enzyme, with advancing age.
Plasmin and the proteolytic enzyme plasminogen are important in maintaining the equilibrium between clotting and clot lysis. Researchers have found that the synthesis of plasminogen, and of plasminogen activators, is reduced during aging. This, of course, favors the formation of fibrin deposits in the blood vessels. Cholesterol and other fatty materials tend to become associated with the fibrin and this can lead to hardening of the arteries -- a condition which leads to heart attacks and decreases the function of the brain, kidneys, eyes, and ears.
Drs. Max Wolf and Karl Ransberger, pioneers in the therapeutic use of proteolytic enzymes, used a mixture of proteolytic enzymes in combination with vitamin E in the treatment of senior citizens. Many patients have been helped by this therapy. Among the benefits already observed are an increase in the clot lysing activity in the blood and a reduction of serum lipids (including cholesterol) to a normal range.
Dr. Ransberger continues to pioneer the use of proteolytic enzyme therapy, not only with aging, but also with such conditions as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, polyarthritis, AIDS, herpes zoster, cancer, sports medicine, and other conditions of acute and chronic inflammation.
Recent laws in New Jersey and California represent a disturbing trend that will negatively impact a practice’s ability to collect monies from patients, as well as expose them to significant penalties if the practice does not follow the mandatory guidelines to a T. Please be aware that a similar law may be coming to your state. The time to act is before the law is passed.
With estimates showing over 30 million Americans affected by peripheral neuropathy – and a significant portion underdiagnosed – it’s increasingly likely that chiropractors are already treating these patients. What’s missing is structured recognition, comprehensive management and targeted tools to slow progression, improve function and support systemic health.
Each year, ICD-10-CM is updated on Oct. 1. For 2026, there are 74,179 total codes, with 487 additions, 28 deletions and 38 revisions. Code changes are based on date of service, not the claim submission date. Services performed on/after Oct. 1 must use the new codes. While no changes affect the common spinal or extraspinal codes most frequently used by DCs, several updates may still affect your claims – particularly for comorbidities, referred pain, or trauma cases.
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