HEALTH & WELLNESS

OZONE

THERAPYWHAT OLD SCIENCE CAN TEACH US IN THE MODERN ERA

Ozone (O3) was discovered in 1840s and shown to be a molecule consisting of three oxygen atoms in a dynamically unstable structure. Although classically thought of as a substance with potential dangerous effects, the modern reality is far different. After more than a century of study, this old molecule turns out to have unique and regenerative properties when used clinically to address patients’ issues. As far back as 1896, Nikola Tesla patented the first O3 generator in the US, later forming the “Tesla Ozone Company” for use in a medical setting.

How does O3 work in the human body? Ozone represents the continued adoption of agitating therapies to improve cellular function. Injury leads to healing. The newer concept of sparking intracellular responses by stimulating a pseudo injury to cells is the mechanism of action O3. Rather than damaging cells, ozone when applied correctly, elicits restorative responses on a molecular level within the body. This directly leads to regenerating anti-oxidant species to balance oxidative metabolism, alter inflammatory mediator cascades, and revitalize mitochondrial function which in turn improves cellular function that is the basis for better tissue and organ performance. O3 also retrains cells to utilize oxygen more successfully and has a role as a potential anti-infective.

The summary from a clinical perspective is that Ozone Therapy gives the opportunity to correct or regenerate metabolic processes which have become imbalanced physiologically. This therapeutic option can be used to potentially address difficult to resolve medical conditions.

The 405 Loves Pickleball

The hybrid sport spreads its wings in OKC

BY ADDAM M. FRANCISCO

W

hen thinking of Oklahoma City’s sports scene, you’re bound to start by thinking about basketball, baseball or soccer due to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Dodgers and Energy FC taking most of the headlines and attention—not to mention the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University football programs. While those sports are undoubtedly the most popular in the city, the popularity of pickleball has grown behind the scenes.

You may not know a ton about this combination of tennis, badminton and table tennis, but pickleball head pro Andy Gensch, from Chicken N Pickle, can help familiarize you with the sport.

Origins

Pickleball was invented in Bainbridge Island, Washington, in 1965 and was primarily played in the Pacifi c Northwest for the next 40 years. The sport eventually expanded, migrating south through the Sun Belt states and thriving in retirement communities. The expansion has been tremendous, and it is now the fastest growing sport in the country.

More than a hobby

It’s a fun weekend pastime, but also unquestionably a professional sport, and it’s growing in its popularity. Pickleball now has two professional tours, and the fi rst national championships were held in 2009.

“The sport’s tremendous growth and popularity stem from how easy it is to learn and that anyone can play it,” said Gensch. “It can be as social or as competitive as you like.” Oklahoma City has been a hub for pickleball in the midwest for years now. Gensch remembers playing in the Oklahoma State Games six years ago, and said they were very competitive.

The OKC Pickleball Club now has more than 1,500 members. With Chicken N Pickle choosing Oklahoma City as one of only four locations in the U.S., and country clubs and public parks converting tennis courts to pickleball courts, it’s safe to say that pickleball has made its mark in the 405.

Photo provided by Chicken N Pickle

Where to play

Having opened its OKC location at 8400 N Oklahoma Ave. in the last year, Chicken N Pickle has continued to grow in popularity for a few reasons. Primarily, it’s the unique blend of superb food, drinks, other games and music. It does wonders for the atmosphere and attracts people interested in pickleball, and makes them new fans.

Typically, the courts at Chicken N Pickle are busy in the evenings, with diff erent leagues and reserved play occupying the space.

While pickleball is the core of Chicken N Pickle’s activities, there are other things to do at this establishment that may interest locals as well: Bocce ball, shuffl eboard, Jenga and ping pong are just a few games that keep patrons active.