Search Results

Over 90% of people will have at least one headache in their life. For some, occasional headaches can turn into a daily occurrence that disturbs both work and hobbies. In many cases, headaches aren't associated with a disease but are, instead, a result of daily habits and actions. The most common triggers for headaches include stress, fatigue, lack of sleep, hunger, and caffeine withdrawal. Why it Matters: Being aware of the type of headache you have and its triggers is the first step towards finding relief. Stress is often the primary cause of all types of headaches. It's important to remember that stress can be mental or physical. Physical stress can include muscle tension in your shoulders, head, and neck resulting from long hours at the computer, unbalanced posture, or a lack of regular exercise. The three most common types of headaches include tension, sinus, and migraine headaches. Did you know... Tension headaches are usually felt across the forehead and last a few hours. Sinus headaches typically occur in the face, last a few hours, and are seasonal. Migraine headaches are painful and often felt in the back of the head, temples, or eyes, can lasts a day or longer, and can produce sensitivity to light and sound. Next Steps: Once you've identified the types of headaches you are usually affected by, you can begin taking proactive steps to reduce your risk. Getting enough rest and watching your caffeine intake is a good start. Research has also found that spinal adjustments are often effective at reducing the frequency and severity of headaches. So if you've been suffering from headaches, we invite you to take the next step and reach out to learn more about how we can help. Science Source(s): Headache. Stanford Health Care. 2021.

The body is a Unit This is the first and most important principle of Osteopathy. Separating the body into segments is great for learning anatomy, however that is where it should stop. The total amount of nerve reflexes, and compensation patterns in all humans is infinite. Not one body is the same as another. Even identical twins will show different patterns in their movements due to their history in the environment, history of lesions and movement patterns. When presented with a patient that has neck pain, obviously the neck must be examined, but many times fixing the alignment of the neck lasts for a short time before it returns into its unaligned state. A practitioner can continuously fix the neck over multiple treatments, and constantly see it return back to its unaligned state. This will offer neck relief for the patient between treatments, however the root problem is still not being solved. This is when treatment gets very difficult, and the body is a unit principle must come into effect during treatment. Pain is a symptom. It is great to know the patient’s painful areas, but pain of the patient must never drive a treatment. Osteopathy involves a great amount of assessing of the entire body while in both motion and not in motion. Practitioners quickly begin to realize that areas in which pain is felt is often caused by areas away from the painful site. This may seem strange at first, but the more you begin to understand the purpose of the entire body as a unit the clearer it becomes. It is obvious the body will compensate in anyway possible, in order for the head to be looking forward, and not on a tilt, for example. How the lower back is involved Lets introduce a low back lesion to the body. The muscles in the low back, hip, and lower limb thigh region are by far the most powerful, and have the most mass in the body. If the alignment of the hip and low back are in lesion, these large muscle groups will often begin to work harder on one or both sides, to stable the spine and make sure our head and eyes are levelled with the horizon. During day to day activity, the patient does not feel any pain in this region, as the muscles are doing their job to compensate and get the patient through the day. They will never mention to any practitioner that they are having low back pain, because none is felt, however there is usually a lesion in the region if motion is tested and palpated. When it comes to athletes Not all patients are athletes or do vigorous activity. An athlete may notice that one side feels different than another during stretching or explosive movements. However, the miracle that our body can compensate for lesions and allow us to carry on through our day without any issues, can also be a curse. The muscles of the lumbar regions including the lumbar erector mass, the large psoas muscles, and the powerful QL muscles will do a great job to keep that pelvis aligned, however one side may be working harder than the other to keep this possible. As we go up the chain of the body, the muscles are not as powerful, but they will need to be used to continue to compensate for the hip region. The constant tugging of larger lumbar spine region may handle it but not up the chain when smaller and less powerful thoracic spine and neck spine muscles have to do it. How the mid-back is involved In the thoracic region we have muscles smaller than the lower back and pelvis, but still quite large. These muscles such as the trapezius and the pectorals muscles may be used to compensate the thorax on the other side. These muscles however cannot handle this strain as easy as the muscles below can. They begin to work harder and harder, leading the muscles to be in a more shortened state, and also pulling the superficial fascia on that side of the body where the muscles are attached to. The body begins to swing to the other side by the pull on the ribs, sternum, clavicle, and thoracic vertebrae, which the pectorals, and trapezius muscle are attached to. Now that the lumbar region is side bending left, and the thorax is side bending to the right even more, for the head to be straight while walking, the muscles in the cervical region will have to work to keep the head level. Compensations Compensation patterns similar to the one above is very common throughout the population. The side bends of the spine occur over multiple vertebrae, and are very minimal from one vertebra to another. The cervical region is the least stable region of the spine. For what it lacks in stability, in makes up for in mobility. The cervical vertebrae are the lightest of the spine, and can move through all planes and axes well. Although it is a small region, there is a vast amount of nerves (brachial / cervical plexus / sympathetic ganglion / cranial nerves (mainly vagus) ) traveling in the periphery of the spine. There is a vast amount of arteries (supply to the brain and upper limb). There is a vast amount of veins (drainage of the brain and the upper limb). There is a vast amount of lymphatics leading to the thoracic ducts. If any of these structures are impeded by a muscle which is short or on tension, pain will most likely occur in the region. Blood flow and nerve conduction All of the nerves, arteries, veins, and lymphatics in the cervical region travel very closely to the muscles involved in side bending the cervical spine (the scalene muscles, and the sternocleidomastoid). These muscles can shorten to side bend the cervical region allowing the head to be levelled once again. Now you have muscles which are short on one side of the cervical region. These shortened muscles become thicker and may impede the nerves, arteries, veins, and lymphatics function in the area. The other side of the cervical region will have muscles lengthened and tensioned. Just like pulling a loose string from both sides, the muscle will change position. This muscle on tension may also impede the nerves, arteries, veins, and lymphatics in the region. In my experience, the cervical region with the muscles on tension is where the pain is more often, but not always. A practitioner can go to the cervical region and relax the shorten muscles, or thrust the cervical vertebrae back in to place which were pulled out of position by the short compensating muscles. This will offer relief for the patient. However, the issue in the lower back which caused a domino effect leading to the neck problem is not taken care of. As discussed before, no pain is felt in the lower back at the moment. Over the next few days the inevitable compensation in the neck will return for the patient to have a level head. Pain returns to the neck, and another adjustment is done to offer relief. This can be a continuous occurrence leaving the patient and the practitioner frustrated with the results. Luckily the body is very good at healing itself, that in some instances the lower back issue will resolve itself, and the practitioner and patient will have a successful relationship. However, many times the situation is not so fortunate. How Can Osteopathic Manual Practitioners help This is where an Osteopathic manual practitioner may seem like a magician or a nut, but it is just following common sense, and basic science that the body is a unit. A patient comes in with neck pain that has not gone away for months. Many practitioners have worked on it, including other osteopaths, and the results are the same. An osteopath following the first principle of Osteopathy listens to the pain complaint, but does not let it drive their treatment. They examine the whole body and find that the area of least movement, and what can most likely be the primary lesion of the body is in the lower back / hip region. They work over the next few sessions on the lower back much to the dismay of the patient who feels like they are not listening to them. After a few sessions, the neck pain starts to recover. Over the next few weeks the neck pain does not return. The patient starts to feel amazed at what the osteopath was able to do, even though it is not rocket science. Conclusion This is one of many examples which can occur throughout the body while assessing the body as a unit. The area of pain is important, and can give the practitioner many clues of what is going on in the body. Over years of palpating people, the practitioner begins to learn common body patterns which can give them clues where to look next. For example the L5/S1 joint and the OA joint often mirror each other. A shoulder issue is often associated with the hip on the other side. These are all clues, but must never be used to fall in to repetitive treatment. Everybody is different, and everybody must be fully assessed before engaging in treatment. Dr. Still, the founder of Osteopathy is quoted as saying “Find it, fix it, leave it alone.” This quote sounds very straight forward, but now you have a sense of how difficult finding “it” can be.

It usually sneaks up on you. First a twinge on the outer part of the elbow. Then soreness and tightness after intense activity. Next, pain and tenderness when you touch your elbow and forearm. As it progresses, the ache can be constant, and you can experience pain and weakness when doing the simplest of daily activities, like lifting your coffee cup, picking up a bag or shaking hands. It’s called lateral epicondylitis or more commonly, tennis elbow. It usually starts slowly, but often worsens over time. The pain can intensify and, left untreated, may become chronic, limiting recreation, work and sporting activities. That’s usually the stage patients are at when they walk through the doors of our clinic looking for relief. Who gets tennis elbow? You don’t have to be a tennis player to get tennis elbow! In fact, statistically, only 5% of lateral epicondylitis cases are among tennis players. Most sufferers are between 30 and 50, with men and women affected equally. In my sports therapy practice, I see tennis elbow among elite athletes and those “weekend warriors” who play racket or other sports recreationally. I also see it in those whose work requires them to do repetitive motions (like assembly line workers, painters, carpenters, plumbers and cooks). Even desk workers who repeatedly use a computer mouse are susceptible. Any activity that involves gripping or twisting and strains the tendons and muscles around your elbow over and over again can cause this frustrating condition. Tennis elbow can be discouraging for patients who want to have a pain-free active lifestyle. The good news is, with the right treatment, it can be resolved—and you can get back to the activities you love. How do you know it’s tennis elbow? It’s always advised that you get a diagnosis from a healthcare provider. If you haven’t done that yet, there are clear indications that what you’re likely dealing with is lateral epicondylitis. The pain of tennis elbow is focused on the outside of your arm, where your forearm meets your elbow. It may seem that the injury is to the bony bump on the outside of your elbow, but the pain is actually related to the muscle and tendons in your forearm. Tendons connect your muscles to your bones. When you repeat certain arm movements, the tendons at the elbow may become inflamed and get small tears. The tears can put stress on the rest of your arm, including muscles, making it painful, especially with certain movements. Patients complain of pain that is primarily focused in the outer elbow, and then expands from there into their forearm and often their wrist and sometimes even their hand. This may be felt as a constant dull ache or sharp pain in the elbow and soreness in the forearm. Or, you might only feel it when you make certain motions such as reaching, grabbing or lifting. Making a fist, raising your hand or straightening your wrist may also cause pain. A similar condition is golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis. This is also an overuse injury that can be caused by any activity that requires repetitive motion of the arm and wrist. But, while tennis elbow affects the outer (lateral) part of the elbow, golfer’s elbow affects the inside (medial) part of the elbow. What can you expect at your initial visit? My approach with all my patients is customized and collaborative, no matter the condition. Every patient I see is unique, and tennis elbow manifests itself differently in each patient. That means that we work together to create a treatment plan that you are comfortable with that gives you the results you want. For example, a patient may be an elite athlete who cannot take much time off, or someone whose work requires them to continue to use their arm in the same way. Another patient might be comfortable with some therapies, but not others. No matter the situation, we work together to create the best treatment plan to resolve the issue as soon as possible. How is tennis elbow treated? When a patient comes to my office with elbow pain or with a referral for lateral epicondylitis, I initially do an exam to evaluate the condition and its severity. I do a postural check-up to see if there are any spinal, neck or shoulder issues that could be affecting the injured area or causing an overcompensation injury. We also determine which activities may have caused the injury and talk about how you can refrain from the trigger activity or activities to rest your arm and give it the time it needs to heal. I then create a comprehensive plan with you based on your particular situation. You will learn exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons in your arm. I may also work with you to develop proper form and technique regarding the activity that likely led to the development of your tennis elbow. Active Release Technique (ART) is one of the first customized treatments we offer for tennis elbow. ART is soft tissue therapy that helps relieve tight muscles and nerve trigger points, greatly reducing joint stress or muscular pains. It involves applying pressure and moving the arm to release tension, scar tissue, adhesions and nerve entrapments. Next, working with you, I create a plan for homecare, which is a key part of treatment. This could include icing, heat therapy, stretching, modification of activities, and exercises. Home care will be an important part of your treatment, particularly exercises, which can help strengthen forearm muscles and improve function. Custom exercises (depending on the severity of the condition, your job, sports activities, etc.) will play an important part in ensuring that your tennis elbow doesn’t return—which is a major goal of your treatment plan! Some of the additional treatments for tennis elbow we may also include in your treatment plan are: Shockwave Therapy, a non-invasive, non-surgical clinical procedure that uses acoustic waves mainly to relieve acute or chronic pain and speed up the healing process in affected tissues (What is shockwave therapy?) Graston Technique, a form of manual therapy that uses stainless steel tools to effectively locate and treat soft tissue injuries (What is Graston Technique?) Acupuncture, which involves inserting very thin, filament needles into specific points in the body, and has shown to be an effective treatment for tennis elbow pain How many sessions will it take? Every situation is unique, and duration of therapy will vary based on the personalized treatment plan set out in the first session. Most often for tennis elbow, treatment involves four to six sessions of 30 to 40 minutes each. At each session, I evaluate progress and modify the treatment plan if it is necessary. Sometimes, tennis elbow clears up after a few weeks of treatment, but usually it takes longer. In order to speed recovery, it’s important to avoid the aggravating activity completely if possible, adhere to the treatment plan, perform home exercises, and when ready, resume activities very gradually. The goal, of course it to get you strong and healthy so you can get out there and enjoy life and your favourite activities! At-home treatments for tennis elbow Here at BODY CURE Sport & Therapy, we always work with you to customize your treatment to your specific needs. But here are some general guidelines for how you can get relief at home. Heat and/or ice the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes daily. Rest your arm and avoid any activities that trigger the pain. Avoid gym activities that aggravate the elbow. Be careful when lifting or gripping everyday items, or activities like scrubbing and cleaning. Make sure not to pull and/or push heavy objects during painful phase. Use your unaffected hand/arm where possible. Wear a brace on your arm that places direct pressure on the tendon on the top of the forearm if needed. Consider taking over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, to relieve pain and inflammation. Consult a healthcare practitioner for a treatment plan and before doing any exercises for tennis elbow. Get treated for tennis elbow in Woodbridge, Ontario, and the Greater Toronto Area If tennis elbow is affecting your game, your work, your life, we at BODY CURE Sport & Therapy can help. The team here knows how important it is for you to minimize downtime, be pain-free and healthy, and get back in the game of life as soon as possible. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, please get in touch here.

The use of shock waves to treat medical conditions originally started nearly four decades ago, after it was discovered capable of breaking down kidney stones without ever damaging any organs. Today, the use of shock waves has extended to therapeutic and wellness applications. One that is getting a lot of traction in the past couple of years but is totally not new is Shockwave Therapy. Its growing popularity is largely attributed to the various benefits it brings to the table. What Is Shockwave Therapy? Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical clinical procedure that uses acoustic waves mainly to relieve acute or chronic pain and speed up the healing process in affected tissues. Shockwave Therapy is also known as Extracorporal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT). The therapy version of the shockwave treatment is often called Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) to distinguish its use of low energy waves from other medical applications that use destructive high energy waves. Shockwave Therapy has been proven to reduce pain and improve mobility after the first treatment. Its main goal, however, is to completely remove stubborn, chronic pain from myoskeletal tissues. It does not need any painkillers at all. Shockwave Therapy can be used with other treatments such as Graston Technique and Medical Acupuncture. It is used across many disciplines, including chiropractic, sports medicine, orthopedics, urology, physiotherapy, and veterinary medicine, among others. How Does Shockwave Therapy Work? Shockwave Therapy works using radial shock waves or radial pressure waves. The waves are triggered by compressed air, which eventually converts into low energy acoustic waves. The waves are then carried to myoskeletal tissues with acute and chronic pains via a contact gel. The contact gel (usually ultrasound gel, Vaseline, or castor oil) facilitates the effective transmission of shock waves to the affected tissue. The acoustic waves create microtrauma, stimulating the bones, tendons, and other soft tissues’ natural healing process. There are four different ways to produce shock waves: spark discharge, piezoelectric, electromagnetic, and pneumatic or electrohydraulic. Each method varies in the level of energy content and has a distinct way of penetrating the human tissue. In RSWT, the pneumatic system is used because it produces radial shock waves, often-characterized as soft, which are dispersive by nature. What Are the Benefits of Shockwave Therapy? Shockwave Therapy offers many benefits, as follows: Non-invasive and Non-surgical: Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure. This means no instrument is inserted into your body, and no organ is cut open throughout the treatment. No Pain Killers: As a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure, this therapy does not need any form of painkillers. No anesthesia involved at all. Cost-effective: Shockwave Therapy has been proven effective for pain and mobility issues after initial treatment with a relatively low cost. Effective for Acute Pain: While originally meant to treat chronic pain, this therapy is now proven to work on acute pain as well. Mild Side Effects: Like many clinical procedures, Shockwave Therapy has side effects too. Fortunately, these side effects are mild, such as temporary soreness or swelling of treated areas, which may last for a couple of days only. What Conditions Can Shockwave Therapy Treat? Shockwave Therapy treats a range of indications, mostly concerning musculoskeletal conditions or those that involve connective tissues like tendons and ligaments. Most conditions are the result of sport, overuse, or repetitive strain. Some common conditions Shockwave Therapy treats include: Heel spurs Hip pain Shoulder pain Tennis elbow Golfers elbow Jumper’s knee Insertional pain Chronic tendinopathy Calcifying tendinitis of shoulders Plantar fasciitis (intense heel pain) Myofascial pain syndrome (chronic soft tissue pain) Medial tibial stress syndrome What Does the Process Look Like? First, your physiotherapist or chiropractor will locate the affected area through palpation. Second, your therapist or chiropractor will apply a good amount of contact gel or oil to the affected area. Third, your therapist or chiropractor will start using the applicator and push it lightly against the affected area. Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt? Shockwave Therapy may cause mild pain or no pain at all since it uses low energy shock waves only. Nonetheless, there may be a tinge of discomfort during the treatment, depending on the severity of the patient’s present condition. Does Shockwave Therapy Really Work? Shockwave Therapy works in two ways: firstly, to relieve pain and secondly, to heal musculoskeletal injuries. Many patients have reported that this therapy helped them solve their chronic pain problems after various unsuccessful types of treatments. Does Shockwave Therapy Have any Side Effects? Shockwave Therapy does have side effects, but nothing is to be worried about. After the treatment, you may experience short-term soreness or swelling for a few days. It is natural since the shock waves trigger an inflammatory response. Do not take any anti-inflammatory medication after treatment as it may slow down the healing process. Is Shockwave Therapy Safe? Yes, but take some precautions. If the injury is new, it’s more likely that the original inflammation is still there, and the shock waves could worsen it. Hence, it’s not advisable to use Shockwave Therapy for indications that have only been present for a few months. Also, this therapy should not be used if you have a circulation or nerve disorder, bone tumor, or a metabolic bone condition. It should not be used for pregnant women who have any open wounds or tumors. How Do I Get Started with? Shockwave Therapy is not for everyone. Visit the nearest physiotherapist or chiropractor in your area to evaluate your present condition. Professional therapists and chiropractors will let you know what you can and cannot do for the duration of your treatment. As for the frequency, it depends on your present condition, the intensity used with the treatment, and the results of treatment. Usually, the treatment may run once a week for 3 to 6 weeks. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, Contact us or call us at (905) 265-006

Massage is one of the oldest forms of healthcare that dates back thousands of years. Early references to massage appear in ancient writings from Egypt, China, Japan, India, Greece, Rome, and a few Arabic nations. To date, there are about 80 different styles of massage therapy that vary in pressures, movements, and techniques. In Canada, massage therapy is a regulated health profession in only four provinces—Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. Standards and practices may vary from province to province. The 2018 Sanofi Canada Healthcare Survey has shown massage therapy is the most used paramedical extended health care benefit in the country after dental and vision care. And over 50% of the beneficiaries use massage to heal an injury or diagnosed condition. What Is Massage Therapy? Massage therapy is the scientific manipulation of soft tissues using manual techniques applied with hands, fingers, feet, elbows, or even a device. The main purpose of massage therapy is to treat body pains and relieve stress. Does Massage Therapy Work? Yes, massage therapy works. In fact, it is one of the oldest healing techniques that is still being used today. Most western and eastern cultures practice it since time immemorial. Benefits of Massage Therapy Massage therapy works for different body and stress-related physical conditions, such as: Low back pain Neck and shoulder pain Osteoarthritis of the knee Muscle tension Headaches and migraines Fatigue Anxiety and depression Repetitive stress injuries Massage can also: Reduce heart rate Lower blood pressure Improve blood circulation and lymph flow Promote the release of happiness hormones endorphins and serotonin Enhance mobility Relax tired muscles Stimulate weak, inactive muscles Types of Massage Therapy Today, we can use various types of massage therapy to achieve specific goals. These include: Sports massage Chiropractic massage Reflexology Chair massage Deep tissue massage Prenatal massage Swedish massage Thai massage Shiatsu massage Hot stone massage Aromatherapy massage What Are Good Massage Options for Back Pain? Massage can help treat back pain regardless of the technique. But if you are looking for special massage techniques to heal your backache, consider: Chiropractic Massage: Chiropractic massage is effective for patients suffering from lower back pain, especially if the cause lies in the musculoskeletal or nervous system like osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. Sports Massage: Sports massage is perfect for sports-related pain and injuries. It promotes flexibility and helps avoid injuries. If a sport or workout activity causes your back pain, I recommend getting a sports massage before, during or after the activity. Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue massage is best used for extreme cases of pain because it goes deeply into each sore muscle. It is perfect to help release scar tissue and tightly knotted muscles that cause chronic neck and upper back pain. What Is the Best Massage to Relieve Stress? All types of massage therapy bring stress relief to your body. Two of the best types of massage to relieve stress are deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. Deep Tissue: Deep tissue massage uses slow strokes and deep finger pressure to relieve chronic muscle problems. It is more intense than Swedish massage but does not cause any soreness or pain at all. Swedish Massage: If you are overly sensitive to pressure, Swedish massage is your best option. It uses lesser pressure than deep tissue massage. Swedish massage targets muscle knots using kneading, flowing strokes, deep circular motions, and more. How to Find a Good Massage Therapist There are several factors to consider when searching for a massage therapist with a good track record. These include: Experience: Look for a massage therapist who has been in practice for at least a few years. They can address your concerns best. And you can rest assured they can hit the right pressure points. Expertise​: A massage therapist with years of experience might know a lot of massage techniques. Ask what his/her specialization are and if he/she has handled and treated patients with a similar condition as yours. Talk to the receptionist or manager first about your condition so they can suggest the right person for you. Credentials: Of course, you want a registered massage therapist (RMT). Ask him/her if he/she is. You can also find and verify RMTs within the four regulated provinces. Head over to RMTFind.com and search by postal code, city/town, or therapist name. To verify the status of a massage therapist’s license, you can use the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) website. Reputation​: While it’s easy for massage therapists and clinics to say they have all of most of these factors, today’s technology has made it so much easier to do background checks. A quick trip to Google will give you ratings and reviews of the massage clinics and their staff and service from real-life customers. Don’t just rely on good reviews, though. Try to look at the bad ones too. Customer Service: The quality of service, whether good or bad, offered by massage clinics is often the top reason why customers find time to leave reviews. Look for the businesses on platforms like Facebook, Google My Business, and Yelp to get a good grasp of the experience of customers during their visit to these clinics. Through these platforms, you should be able to find out if their staff and massage therapists are welcoming, approachable, and attentive to the customer’s needs. Fees: Massage service costs range between $40 to $60 per session, depending on the type of massage you will get. Payment plans are also available for regular treatments. Most massage clinics offer free consultations. Know your medical coverage and health insurance policies because some companies include massages as part of their healthcare benefit. This might reduce your out-of-pocket expense. What Are the Risks of Massage Therapy? As a non-invasive manual therapy, massages are safe. For people with cases listed below, I recommend getting the advice of your doctor or massage therapist first. Massage therapists—unless they are also qualified doctors—may not diagnose any medical conditions. Massage Contraindications Fever Cold or flu Acute injuries Skin diseases Heart diseases Hypertension / high blood pressure Kidney failure Inflammation of the vein (phlebitis) Blood clot (thrombosis) Neuritis Cancer Psoriasis Dermatitis Epilepsy Diabetes Arthritis Edema Gynecological infections Any contagious diseases If you have at least one of the above conditions, please see your doctor before getting a massage. How Often Should You Have a Massage? Factors like general health and condition may determine how many times should you get a massage. Note that these are general recommendations only. It’s best to ask your massage therapist or chiropractor for recommendations tailored to meet your individual needs. For General Wellness: If you are looking at massage for general wellness, 1 or 2 times a month is good enough to get all its benefits. For Chronic Conditions: Massage to treat chronic conditions like backache, neck ache, and migraine may need a more frequent visit to a massage therapist or chiropractor. Twice a week massages for the first 4 to 6 weeks may be a good starting point. For Athletes: If you are an athlete, a sports junkie, or a high-intensity workout enthusiast, you may have to spend 2 to 3 times per week for a massage during periods of intense training. For Stress: Massage to relieve stress and stress-related conditions like anxiety and insomnia could be done every 1 to 2 weeks. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, Contact us or call us at (905) 265-006 #massage #naturalhealingways

Imagine waking up with back pain on a beautiful sunny day, and you need to get a lot of important things done. Awful, right? You were probably lifting weights the day before. Or, you were sleeping with your back caught in an awkward position. Worse yet, you do not understand how you got your back pains. Back pain is common, and it often gets better within a few weeks. Pain in the lower back, in particular, is very common but not a sign of anything serious most often. The logical first step to tackle your back pain is to find a local chiropractor or a massage therapist in your area. While waiting for your appointment though, you can try some workarounds to relieve your back pain and mobilize your back muscles. Before we dive into that, it is important to know what happened to your back. What Causes Back Pain? Most back pains originate from strains on back structures. But, identifying the exact cause of back pain is not always possible. We categorize back pain as ‘non-specific’ (no clear underlying cause) or ‘mechanical’ (caused by abnormal stress and strain in and around the spine). Mechanical pain is often the result of poor posture, poor seat design, and improper bending and lifting motions. The pain can either be acute or chronic. Acute back pain may last for 6 weeks, while chronic back pain may last over 3 months, though the latter is less common than the former. Sprain / Strain Strained muscles and sprained ligaments, muscle tension, muscle spasm, injuries and fractures, and slipped spinal disks are some common causes of back pain. Lifting heavy objects, making sudden movements, or getting fractures or injuries from accidental falls are often the causes of strains. Posture and Habits Some regular daily activities and habits we do are another common cause of back pain, including: Poor posture (at the desk, while driving, while walking, etc.) Sitting or standing for longer periods Over-stretching High and low-intensity exercises Poor quality mattress that does not keep the spine straight Structural Issues Structural problems of the spine can also lead to back pain, such as Ankylosing spondylitis (swelling or abnormal enlargement of the joints in the spine) Osteoarthritis (a joint disease that often affects middle-aged and elderly people) Osteoporosis (bones becomes porous and brittle causing compression fractures) Ruptured, bulging, or slipping spinal disk Sciatica (a nerve inflammation that spans from the lower back to feet) Scoliosis (the spine has sideways S or C-shaped curve) Spondylolisthesis (a vertebra slips forward and out of place) Other Causes Though rare, back pain is also a sign of an underlying serious problem in your body, including: Bladder infections Cauda equina syndrome (Pinched nerves in the spine, near the lower end) Cancer of the spine Kidney problems Pelvic inflammatory disease Sleep disorders Ways to Relieve Your Back Pain Right Now Not all back-pain occurrences need a doctor’s visit. There are ways to manage the pain on your own as soon as it kicks in. Here’s what you can do to get rid of your back pain, pronto: Keep moving: A long period of inactivity is often the culprit for most types of back pain, and it is, in fact, doing you more harm than good If you think bed rest is the best solution to get rid of your back pain, think again. Bed rest can slow down the healing process and make your muscles more exhausted, stiffer, and more painful What you can do is to move around and do your normal activities, just to keep your muscles as active as possible. Although, avoid activities that involve movements more than your back muscles can handle. Perform light stretches and back exercises: Talking about staying active, you might as well perform light stretches and back exercises. These will help ease out backaches and keep your back strong if done in a routine. Activities like walking and swimming are also beneficial to your back. Also, you can find a host of easy yoga poses and Pilates exercises that may help your back pain. Use heat or ice: Both heat and ice have their own ways of treating back pains. Heat loosens up rigid muscles, while ice eases off inflammation and reduces nerve activity for a little while which helps in relieving pain. You can try taking a hot bath or a cold shower to treat affected muscles. Also, placing a bottle of hot water or an ice pack on the impacted area for about 15 minutes can help lessen the pain. Be cautious when using an ice pack / hot pack right onto your skin, it is advised to wrap it in a cloth first before applying it on your body. Applying hot and cold packs in contrast to treat your back pain is also an option. Take pain medication: It confuses many patients whether pain medication is okay for back pain. Sometimes. Over the counter (OTC) pain medicines may sometimes relieve your back pain temporarily. While they might not put an end to your pain sometimes, pain medicines help you manage the pain enough for you to move around for the short period of time until you seek professional help. Paracetamol (Tylenol) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) tablets like aspirin (Bayer), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), and naproxen (Aleve) are effective in dealing with different stages of pain and help with inflammation. Please consult with your family doctor and/or your pharmacist before taking any medication. Over the counter pain medication do not require a prescription but some people react to them differently and it is advised to read the label and check with your family doctor like mentioned above. When to See a Chiropractor? Often minor back pain not triggered by a serious medical condition may improve within a few weeks. However, it is recommended to visit a chiropractor, massage therapist, or a physiotherapist if your back pain: Does not improve within a few weeks Prevents you from doing any activities Gets worse as the days or weeks go by If none of the aforementioned methods help or the pain just keeps on recurring even after trying the pain-relieving methods, you know it is time to seek professional help. Find a chiropractor or a massage therapist near you to help you get rid of your back pain for good. They will evaluate, diagnose and treat you with manual therapy treatments as well as prescribe rehabilitative exercises as part of the treatment plan. A Chiropractor can give you recommendations on what types of exercises you can do and how often should you visit them for treatment to speed up the healing process of your back pain. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, Contact us or call us at (905) 265-006 #health #massage #backpain

There are some chronic pains caused by injuries that just won’t go away. You have tried various soft tissue therapies, and nothing seemed to work out. Introducing the Graston Technique. Like acupuncture, dry needling, and other instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) techniques, the Graston Technique has been proven to effectively heal acute, chronic or post-surgical soft tissue injuries. In fact, it has resolved 87% or more of all conditions treated. Currently, there are 431 sports organizations who are taking advantage of this manual therapy on a regular basis. If you have any bodily pain that has been bothering you for months or years, the Graston Technique might be the last thing you want to hear. What Is the Graston Technique? The Graston Technique is a form of manual therapy that uses stainless steel tools to effectively locate and treat soft tissue injuries. It uses some tools and a specialized form of massage or scraping techniques to break up dysfunctional soft tissues. The goal of the Graston Technique is to reduce or eliminate the pain caused by soft tissue injuries and to improve mobility. The treatment can either be light or more aggressive, depending on the patient’s presentation and tolerance. The Graston Technique is used across many disciplines such as chiropractic, osteopathy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and massage therapy, among others. It can also be used with other treatments like Shockwave Therapy and Medical Acupuncture. What Is the Graston Technique Used for? The Graston Technique is used to treat acute and chronic conditions such as the following: Achilles tendinitis Carpal tunnel syndrome Cervical sprain or strain (neck pain) De Quervain Syndrome Hamstring injuries Hip pain IT band syndrome Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) Lumbar sprain or strain (back pain) Patellofemoral disorders (knee pain) Plantar fasciitis (heel pain) Post-fracture pain Rotator cuff tendinitis (shoulder pain) And more What Are the Benefits of the Graston Technique? Soft tissue injuries are most likely going to form scar tissue due to the haphazard nature of the healing process of living tissues The scar tissue itself does not cause any pain, but it can cause stiffness and thereby limiting the range of motion. The restrictions may contribute to chronic pain. The Graston Technique can potentially: Resolve chronic conditions thought to be lifelong Reduce anti-inflammatory medication Promote faster recovery Decrease overall treatment time What Tools Are Used in the Graston Technique? There are six stainless steel tools used in the treatment with the help of cream or lotion. These specially designed tools are used in two ways: To scan all over the patient’s body to locate areas of restriction or fibrosis or scar tissue. To break up the scar tissue. These tools are dense, making it easier to locate abnormal tissue texture. Also, these tools have rounded edges so you can guarantee they are safe to use on your body. How Often Do I Need to Get the Graston Technique Done? Normally, treatment is given to patients twice per week for a period of 4 to 5 weeks. Patients may or may not start to notice results by the third or fourth treatment. Nonetheless, treatment duration varies. Acute injuries tend to respond quicker than chronic injuries. The longer the injury has been there, the longer it will take to recover. For non-inflammatory conditions, it can be used on a daily basis. Does the Graston Technique Hurt? Like any other soft tissue treatments, the Graston Technique can be uncomfortable at times, but not beyond the tolerable level at all. This treatment uses micro-trauma to stimulate an inflammatory response and trigger the self-healing ability of the soft tissue. The inflammation may last for 24 to 48 hours. Is the Graston Technique Safe? The Graston Technique is generally safe because it is a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure. However, it is not for everyone with soft tissue injuries. This treatment should not be used for people with: Open wounds and tumors around the soft tissue injury High blood pressure Complex fractures that are not yet healed Kidney disorders Blood-thinning medications Pregnant women should also avoid this treatment if possible. What Are the Side Effects of the Graston Technique? Redness on the treated area during the treatment and minor bruising on the treated area after the treatment are completely normal side effects. Nevertheless, patients are given specific recommendations upon discharge on how to better handle these instances. Is the Graston Technique Right for You? Only a Graston practitioner can tell you if the treatment is right for you. A Graston practitioner has to check your medical history and discuss your case with you. Each patient is treated differently based on his/her present condition. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, Contact us or call us at (905) 265-006 #massage #chakras

A chiropractic adjustment is a therapeutic method used to treat lower back pain. They’re also referred to as manual manipulation, chiropractic manipulation, and in some cases, as spinal manipulation. However, all these terms are the same. Furthermore, chiropractic adjustments refer to the process of applying enough pressure to manipulate the vertebrae. The primary goal of the chiropractic adjustment is to reduce the misalignment of the vertebrae so that it will have an increased range of motion and an improved function. Overview of Chiropractic Adjustments Chiropractic adjustments are a type of therapy that is done directly by a physician. Its primary objective is to realign joint subluxations or in simpler words, partially dislocated vertebra. When a chiropractor searches for signs of subluxations, what they do is they look for subtle position changes of one’s joints. Subluxations also sometimes take the form of disconnected bones and joints. There are different kinds of chiropractic techniques and methods to realign these. However, the most common one is by doing a fast, forceful thrust straight into the joint. The goals of chiropractic adjustments are to bring the joint’s bones back to its natural and healthy fit. Take note, though, that the number of adjustment attempts depends. There are times when it only takes one adjustment, while sometimes, it takes more than three or four. Are Chiropractors 'Back Crackers'? You might have heard chiropractors being called back crackers. This nickname might have originated because of the popping and cracking side that’s heard during chiropractic treatment. Most of the time, people believe that the sounds created are a sign of a successful adjustment. That may be the case for some, but it doesn’t necessarily have to do anything with your joints’ realignment. Instead, the sounds you hear are caused by cavitation. Cavitation happens when the pressure inside a joint suddenly decreases. It causes the release of synovial fluid gasses to the spaces in between your bones that have just been adjusted. These gasses make up about 15% of your total joint volume. The chiropractic profession focuses mainly on spin adjustment. However, there is an increasing number of chiropractors that are also knowledgeable in adjusting the joints of our body, such as the pelvis, wrists, feet, knees, and more. But make sure to tell the chiropractor about the medical history of these parts if you plan on having these adjusted. Past injuries and traumas can make the chiropractic adjustment unsuccessful. Worse is that it can cause further injuries. So, does Chiropractic Adjustments hurt? Chiropractic adjustments don’t usually hurt. You may, however, feel slight discomfort on your joints during the treatment. But you won’t feel any pain afterwards if the adjustment is done correctly. Most patients even enjoy experiencing adjustment. Some even like the feeling of being adjusted as it relaxes and relieves their body of pressure. But if it’s your first time going through chiropractic adjustment, expect to experience slight discomfort and soreness for the next 12 to 24 hours. The feeling of soreness can be compared to the sense of having worked out in the gym. Simple stretching or placing ice on the area can even help subside the discomfort. Furthermore, the adjustment aligns your spines and restores their full range of motion. Your tendons, muscles, and ligaments are also fixed and “tightened,” which is why you’ll feel a bit sore. Also, the adhesions that restrict your joints and tissues from moving are finally broken; thus you feel slight discomfort. It’s best to discuss the chiropractic treatment with your doctor first before getting the treatment. Also, if you experience persistent discomfort, pain, numbness or weakness on your bones, it’s best to seek medical help. Chiropractic adjustments are usually pain-free. However, you may feel a bit of pain and soreness depending on your body’s level of tension and inflammation. It’s also normal if you feel mild tenderness or tension after realignment. Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments Improved athletic performance, and prevents sports injuries Chiropractic adjustments are greatly beneficial to athletes. A lot of professional sports players go through regular adjustments to enhance their performance levels while reducing pain and improving the body’s functionality. You’ll also benefit from this even if you’re not a professional athlete, as you’ll have a stronger and healthier body. You also won’t quickly get tired because your bones and muscles function efficiently. There are even some reports that chiropractic adjustment improves the body’s immune system and increases one’s energy levels because of the released tension in the muscles — a great benefit for those who want to be stronger and more productive. Improves sleep, reduces neck pain. Neck and back pain often lead to stress and lowers the quality of rest that a person can get. Chiropractic adjustments, however, are great when it comes to relieving stress. Because of this, they do well in improving one’s sleeping patterns. A chiropractic adjustment can also give you a good night’s sleep because you won’t feel any discomfort from your aching muscles or bones. Aside from that, this can also make you more productive during the day because you’ve had enough “quality” sleep. Relieves headaches and chronic pains. People who frequently experience headaches can benefit significantly from chiropractic adjustments. The treatment is effective in combating migraines and headaches because of its muscle-relieving properties. Your bones, joints, and muscles are all connected. And all these are also connected to nerves. As long as they’re functioning correctly and aren’t stressed, then the nerves tend to relax, removing any sensations of pain. Better long-term pain tolerance. A chiropractic adjustment improves pain management and treats chronic conditions such as intense migraine. These are also effective in managing injuries and preventing them from happening in the first place. You’re less likely to sustain any injuries because your bones and muscles work together correctly. Body coordination improves significantly with the help of an adjustment. Injuries won’t also be that painful because your body can quickly adapt and work on the recovery process because of its improved efficiency. Furthermore, a trip to the chiropractor can also help reduce pain caused by sciatica and fibromyalgia, as the realignment brings back the nerves to its natural position, thus relieving nerve pain. Adjustments also have anti-inflammatory properties and can even improve digestive health. It also reduces the chances of you experiencing acid reflux and getting ear infections. Lowers blood pressure and improves overall health care Getting a chiropractic alignment gives you proper posture, which in turn, dramatically impacts your overall wellness. Various studies confirm that chiropractic adjustments help lower blood pressure because the bones, muscles, and tendons are working efficiently, thus improving your body’s overall well-being and helps lower blood pressure. What to expect in Chiropractic Adjustment sessions? Your chiropractor is going to ask you questions during your initial visit. These questions will be about your health history and your current condition. After which, the chiropractor will then perform a physical exam that focuses on your spine at first. An examination will also be conducted on the other areas of your body where you feel pain. Also, expect your chiropractor to recommend x-ray examinations for a more in-depth observation. During the chiropractic adjustment, you will be placed in different positions to treat specific affected areas. Most of the time, you’ll be facing face down on a specially designed chiropractic table. It’s padded so don’t worry if you think it’ll be an inconvenience. The chiropractor will then apply a quick, but a controlled force to the affected joint. This ‘release’ action pushes the joint beyond its natural range of motion to release tension. Expect to hear a cracking or popping sound every time the chiropractor moves your bones and joints. You may experience minor side effects such as soreness or weakness on the affected areas days after the chiropractic adjustment. However, these are only temporary and will be gone in a week at most. Fatigue, headaches, and minor swelling are other side effects to expect. Risks to Watch Out For Persons who are suffering from inflammatory arthritis, osteoporosis, and spinal cord compression shouldn’t get chiropractic adjustment. Also, those who have taken or are currently taking blood-thinning medications must not undergo the treatment. Meanwhile, patients who have cancer history must first get clearance from a licensed doctor before getting chiropractic adjustment. The accurate diagnosis of your body pains will then determine the type of treatment you will receive. Make sure that the chiropractor is well informed of your medical history and the current medications you are taking (if there are any). Lifestyle factors, surgical and traumatic history, and various concerns should be addressed before going through any treatment. Take note that there are cases (albeit very rare) of chiropractic adjustments that worsened slipped discs and even led to spinal cord injury. Before proceeding with the adjustment, see to it that your condition will benefit from receiving chiropractic care.

Maintaining the right posture is vital to having healthy overall well being. Not only does this avoid body pains, but this also makes us healthier and more productive. Unfortunately, many fail to maintain the right posture due to wrong habits such as staring too much at computers, sitting with the wrong position on office chairs, or prolonged standing. What’s worse is that poor posture can be second nature if nothing is done to correct it. It can even aggravate neck and back pain or ultimately damage your spine. Good thing that the main factors affecting one’s posture aren’t that difficult to change. The following tips are proven to be effective in improving your posture, especially those who work in an office and sits on an office chair throughout the day. Determine the factors that cause body pain Body pains are usually the result of improper posture and poor ergonomics. This is the common case if pain becomes worse at specific times of the day. If back or neck pain intensifies after a long day at the office, but not on the weekends, then that’s a clear sign that there is something wrong with your posture at the office. This usually happens with those who experience neck pains, where the pain moves downward to their lower back and extremities. Pain that goes away after changing positions or back pain that starts whenever you sit on your new office chair is also other signs that you need to change something with your working environment. By determining the root causes, you’re able to make the right steps towards improving your proper posture. It might not be that much, but it’s a good start. Maintain proper body alignment. Your body should be aligned as much as possible. This means that your body should maintain a straight posture. For example, if you’re standing, your body weight should be evenly distributed to the back, front, and sides of your feet. Take advantage of your office chair’s features. Sit up straight and place your arms on the armrest. If you’re always slouching, try not to lean back or recline on your chair even if you sit straight. This way, you’re less likely to slouch when you feel tired. Also make it a habit to shift position every now and then because maintaining a prolonged sitting position is tiring, even if it’s proper. Alternate sitting back and moving to the edge of your seat every 30 to 45 minutes. This relaxes your back muscles. You can also try sitting on a balance ball to help you maintain a naturally balanced posture. This rocks your pelvis gently which in turn increases your lumbar curve. Avoid unbalanced postures while sitting. Examples of these are crossing your legs, hunching your shoulders, tilting your head, or leaning to one side. Stand up and move. Extra pressure is placed on your back and neck as your muscle begins to tire. This usually results in slumping and slouching. Change positions regularly to avoid these from happening. It also helps you maintain a relaxed, but properly supported posture. Take a break from sitting on your office chair every 30 minutes. Spend around two to five minutes to stand, walk, and stretch. Also, use a posture-friendly office chair when working. One that has an ergonomic design is what you need. An example of an ergonomic chair is one that has a curved backrest that takes the shape of your back. You can also get one that has adjustable back support. This reduces the pressure from your spine and lessens the chances of you getting back pains. You can also add a portable lumbar back support or footrest while sitting on an office chair. Using backpacks and purses that are specifically designed to minimize back strain can also help you maintain the right posture. Wear corrective eyewear and properly position your computer screen to rest eye position to avoid straining your neck or leaning too far back. Exercise regularly. Exercising might be a bit off topic but exercising regularly helps promote good posture and prevent injuries. Even light exercises such as brisk walking, cycling, jogging, or swimming, can condition the body and make it less likely of getting strained easily. Specific strength exercises such as weightlifting, and pushups also help back muscles stay strong. All these promote good posture, and in the process, condition your body and help prevent injuries from happening. Also, do exercises that balance your back muscles and core muscles to maintain good posture. Examples of these are cross-training and curl-ups. Wear proper footwear. If you’re a woman and working in the office, chances are, you’re wearing high heels. While they look good and stylish, they aren’t recommended if you want to maintain proper posture. Wearing high-heeled shoes negatively impacts the center of gravity of your body. High heels also increase the chances of your body getting misaligned because your back doesn’t get enough support. If you’re standing at the office for long periods of time, it’s recommended that you wear supportive shoe orthotics or place one foot up on an elevated platform. And remember not to slouch or tilt your head to only one side. Maintain good posture while moving. Holding a phone, lifting heavy objects, or simply walking, are all moving activities which need to be done in proper posture. Maintain good posture while in motion to avoid injuries and pains on your back and neck. If you’re working on a blue-collared job, you’re most likely to always lift heavy materials. Back injuries are common when doing such activities as you are likely to do awkward movements when lifting or twisting. However, you can avoid sustaining injuries if you follow correct posture as you gain sufficient control of your entire body. Go ergonomic Ergonomics is very important if you want to maintain proper body posture at work. Though it requires you to spend a bit of cash, it’s totally worth it because your body benefits from it. Personalize your workspace, car, or even home. You can do this by getting an ergonomically designed chair at work; one that has a proper backrest and can be reclined easily. Your computer screen shouldn’t also be too bright or emit much radiation. LED monitors are recommended because their lighting levels are modulated. Get a neck rest and back support pillow for your car so that you can still maintain proper body posture even if you’re still driving to the office or on your way back home. It’s less time consuming and much easier for you to correct your body posture, compared to having to go to the doctor to deal with possible debilitating pain conditions you might experience as a result of improper posture. Avoid overdoing proper posture While it’s important to maintain proper posture at all times, it’ not recommended that you abruptly shift to it. It’s still important to maintain a relaxed posture. Don’t restrict your movements or posture too much that you clench your muscles too tightly. Having an unnatural posture stiffens up your muscles, which can then, cause pain to your body later on. Relax every now and then. Sit back and recline your chair if you feel that your back is already aching after an hour of sitting straight and not slouching. Individuals who have back, and neck pain has a natural tendency to limit their movement and maintain proper posture. However, limiting one’s movement or staying in just one posture for hours at end will stiffen up your muscles and cause further pain on them. Your spine is designed for movements and not moving it over a long period of time will create more pain. Proper body posture isn’t earned overnight. Don’t abruptly change your posture as it will only worsen your situation Conclusion All the tips mentioned in this article are proven effective by experts and individuals who experienced body pains, especially with their back and neck. However, if pain persists even if you’ve followed the tips, the best thing to do is to seek the help of a chiropractor. Not only can they help ease your back and neck pains, but they can also help you have an overall healthy body. Chiropractors align your spine and ensure that your bones, muscles, and joints are functioning at its best. These chiropractors are also medical professionals who are experts in the field. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, Contact us or call us at (905) 265-006

Looking for the right chiropractor for you isn’t easy as you need to consider a lot of things especially that it’s your body we’re talking of. You don’t just need effective treatment to relieve your pain, but you also want someone who understands and responds to your needs. In this case, it’s a chiropractor that you need. Chiropractors are professional healthcare providers that are experts in dealing with back and body pains. Their main goal is to remove the causes of your body pains and alleviate the effects of injuries. Chiropractors are what you need to promote your joint, bone, spine, and muscle health. Here are some of the factors you need to consider when looking for one. Reputation and Personal Rapport The first thing you need to consider is the chiropractor’s reputation. Look up for reviews about the chiropractor you intend to work with. See whether they’ve got good reviews. Also consider the clinic in which they’ll be doing the chiropractic procedure or where you’ll have an appointment. You can head to Google to search for reviews about a specific chiropractor. Learn what other people are saying about them. Are their previous clients satisfied on their experience with the chiropractor? Were the chiropractor’s methods effective in dealing with back pains? Learn about the experiences of their previous clients with them. How much time do they spend with their patients? How efficient are they in answering questions? It’s in asking these questions where you’re able to gauge if the chiropractor is worth spending your time and money on. Make sure that you feel comfortable with them. They should listen to your concerns and clearly explain the benefits and treatment options available. It would be better if the chiropractor will create a customized treatment plan for you so that you’ll know exactly what to expect. Credentials See to it that your chiropractor of choice is fully licensed. This is very important as this ensures that they know exactly what they’re doing, and that they’re fully capable of implementing the chiropractor procedure on you. This tells you if they’ve received the proper training, have credible experience, and the skills needed to exercise chiropractic care. Make sure that the chiropractor has no history of going through disciplinary sanctions or any traces of malpractice. If you have time, you can search about their educational background, such as the medical school they’ve attended, and certifications attained Experience and Expertise Experience is a very important part of being a chiropractor. The more experience they have, the better the outcome. This is necessary especially that they’re going to deal with crucial parts of your body, such as your spine and musculoskeletal system. Ask if the chiropractor has experience in handling a specific condition such as an injury you might have had. Also ask if how many patients with the similar situation they have treated. The more experience they have, the better it is for you. Also find out about the complication rates of specific procedures. This lets you know what to expect, whether the outcome of the chiropractic alignment will be good or bad. You can search the internet for reviews on chiropractors. There you’ll see the comments their previous patients have to say. Were they satisfied with the service? Did they feel better after the chiropractic adjustment? Look for negative comments as well. And don’t be alarmed if there are, because these are completely normal. Just make sure that it’s kept as a minimum. Because after all, you can’t please everyone, right? Including the chiropractor’s patients. Methods and Techniques Used Chiropractors utilize different techniques to ensure the patient’s recovery. If you want to go through a specific treatment method, then feel free to suggest it to your chiropractor. They should listen to your suggestions, and in the process, also make a logical response to it. A proper chiropractor gives professional advice on what method or technique they deem is best to the patient. Ask them about this on your initial consultation so you’ll know whether they’re the right choice or not. Most chiropractors use the manual adjustment technique. On the other hand, there are also those that use an activator, which is a tool used to implement the adjustment process. The two methods are effective, and many chiropractors know how to implement them. However, if you prefer one over the other, then it’s best to ask them if they agree with it. There are also other practices that offer physical therapy and nutrition counseling services. It would be better if your chiropractor offers these as they gave you a holistic treatment altogether. Fees and Pricing Consultations are usually free. This lets you choose the right chiropractor for you. However, you need to use these consultations wisely. Use this time to know the fees or rates of the chiropractor’s services. Don’t hesitate to look for other options. They won’t mind, because after all, it’s your right to choose. It doesn’t mean that the more expensive the rates are, the more experienced and the better the outcome will be. It doesn’t work that way. Take note that there are experienced and well-renowned chiropractors that doesn’t charge much. However, it’s also not recommended that you stick to the cheapest choice as they’re also likely to have less experience and skills. A proper chiropractor should also give you a speedy breakdown of the total costs. This includes the breakdown for the coverage of your health insurance if you have one. Also ask the costs per visit. Also ask if the chiropractor has a connection with an attorney if in case you were involved in an accident. This is important especially if you don’t want to be held responsible for the expenses. Furthermore, learn if the chiropractor offers payment plans or if they require the fees to be paid as soon as the service starts. A chiropractor that participates with your plan gives you the best insurance benefits. This also lowers down your out-of-pocket costs. Clinic There are some chiropractors that work in hospitals or are affiliated with them. There are also others that have their own clinics. Thus, it’s important that you consider the quality of care provided by the hospital they practice their chiropractic care. Hospital quality matters a lot because patients who go to top-rated hospitals are less likely to experience complications. The clinic should also be sanitary. This means that it should be clean, orderly, equipment and tools are stored and placed properly, and have a good ambiance. Also consider the location of the hospital or clinic. It should be near to your home or can be accessed easily. The location must encourage you to go to your chiropractor and not discourage. Ways of Communication The chiropractor you’ll be getting should be easy to talk with. This means that you need to be comfortable talking to them and discussing things about the chiropractic treatment you’ll be getting. They should supply you with clear information, so you’ll be informed on what to expect. Upon meeting the chiropractor for the first time, ask them a question and observe how they respond. Do they respond professionally and give out easily understandable terms? Or do they use overly technical words that only doctors can understand? The chiropractor should be approachable at all times, thus having a pleasing personality counts a lot. They should also warmly welcome your questions and answer them in an easy to understand way. The chiropractor should show interest in knowing more about you, someone who’s going to consider your preferences for treatment. Chiropractors must respect your decisions, but also be firm enough in handing out their own professional suggestions. Conclusion Experience an improvement in your overall health and well-being when you receive the professional care and treatment of an experienced chiropractor. Not only do they ensure the optimal body posture for you, but they also relieve your bones and muscles of the stress they have to deal with every day. After all, your body goes through a tremendous amount of pressure especially that we’re living in a very busy urban society. We even rarely have time to look out for ourselves and ask whether our bodies are still doing good! Because of this, it’s important that we get the right chiropractor that suits our preferences. Hopefully, this article helped you with that. Just remember to get a chiropractor who has a good reputation, has the needed skills and experience, and someone who has a sincere desire in helping you achieve the body the healthy body you deserve. Because after all, don’t we want to feel good about ourselves? Well, a chiropractor helps you with just that. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve your optimal health, Contact us or call us at (905) 265-006 #chiropractor