Unsung Pioneers In Our Midst: John Gleddie
Extrait ''The Port Reporter'' Vol. I No. 11 December 2005
www.saveport.ca/port_reporter_vol11.htm

So often we read about people in far away places who are doing miraculous things while we are unaware that right here, on our doorstep, we have such people. Today I'd like to talk about one - a health practioner who is well known across North America in sporting circles. John Gleddie, a Doctor of Chiropractic practicing on Lakeshore Road, specializes in sports performance physiology. He has pioneered the application of this technology in Endurance Motor Racing, specifically with the Brumos/Porsche Racing Team, whose reputation in motorsport is legendary.

His pioneering practice is also extremely successful in NASCAR RACING where he has been retained exclusively to give Tony Stewart, this year’s NASCAR Nextel Champion, and that great racing team every possible advantage.

What type of care you ask? John specializes in mild pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy. It involves the use of a hyperbaric chamber which is an enclosure that surrounds a person allowing the introduction of an oxygen rich mixture at a higher pressure than is possible at sea level. Oxygen permeates the body through the skin and increases the oxygen concentration available in body fluids. It is this extra oxygen that is essential in helping to return the neurons to normal biochemical function. The most valuable factors are the rapid removal of lactic acid from the blood stream, rapid re-hydration and a return to normal fitness levels.

Once a person is securely inside, the chamber is sealed and pressurized. Quality oxygen is added as you relax in the 7-foot long enclosure on your back during the treatment. Most find it soothing enough to sleep. In order to maintain pressure and constant flow there are calibrated outflow valves incorporated in the chamber. The time spent to achieve the maximum effect is between 40 and 45 minutes.

What mild hyperbaric therapy does is allow your body to absorb more oxygen at the cellular level. This has many positive health benefits as the body is able to carry out vital cell functions.

How did I learn about the pioneering work of Dr. Gleddie? My wife spent 10 months bedridden following a heart attack and small stroke. I made up a bed in my van and took her to John to help with the back pain associated with 10 months in bed. She convinced John to allow her to take the hyperbaric treatments to see if it could bring her back to a more normal existence. From the very first treatment, she began on the road to a more normal life. She has a treatment once a week monitored closely by Dr. John with his wide range of medical knowledge. The pain is almost gone now and the change in her energy level is unbelievable.This unassuming pioneer has made a significant difference in our lives for which we are truly thankful.

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment is just starting to get known for its many benefits. It is being used by all kinds of people for various reasons. John’s approach is different from many others. He believes mild pressure oxygen treatment is more beneficial than high pressure treatment. His successes prove his approach. In sports, Nolan Ryan and many members of the Texas Rangers baseball team were under his care and thrived. Tony Stewart's turn around in the world of racing speaks volumes for the work of John Gleddie. As for Gloria, his care has allowed her to have a life.

John is now exploring opening up a Concussion Recovery Clinic, possibly in Port Dalhousie, to help athletes and others with the problems associated with head and other athletic injuries.

Next time you hear people talking about pioneers in far away places, you can now tell them that they only have to travel a few kilometers to find one right in their own hometown.