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By Denisha
Low back pain is a very common concern physiotherapists treat. Patients often express their pain as a “symptom of aging”—but this cannot be automatically assumed! Assessment would include collecting an in-depth history and then physically testing all components often involved with back pain: movements of the spine, muscle strength/tightness, core activation and any existing imbalances (ex. hip/knee concerns), as well as reviewing any current personal exercise programs. As a pelvic physiotherapist, there are also several other areas to consider and assess- including the pelvic floor musculature. Once we identify the driver of your pain, treatment can include manual therapy (hands on care for the joints/soft tissues), stretches, core activation cues, a home program tailored to you, ergonomic education and strengthening overall- just to name a few. TIP: Daily intentional movement is very important as prevention is key!
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We have all struggled with lower back, stiffness/discomfort or pain one time or another in our lifetime. You worked on the garden or may have lifted a heavy box from the garage or a quick twist the wrong way and uh oh….your whole back has stiffened up and you spend the rest of the day laying down on the couch. Instead of waiting till it goes away, or taking medication to resolve the pain, we should talk about how massage therapy can help your lower back pain or how it can be prevented in the first place. So what is massage therapy and why does it work? Massage Therapy is the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to rehabilitate or increase physical function and relieve pain. So generally speaking, massage is an effective way to reduce restrictions and tension in the muscle, ligament and fascial tissue that attach to the lower spine and pelvis joints that has built up over the weeks, months and even years. Why does that happen? Well the most common reason is we are not moving enough and our body adjusts and adapts to our posture. In other words we sit too much and have developed fascial restrictions/adhesions and muscle tension that reduces our lower back range of motion. That is why we suffer from muscle spasm and pain periodically. So the good news is if we just look at the situation on the preventive side, occasional or regular massage treatments before the back develops stiffness and pain will most likely prevent future back pain episodes. If you are experiencing regular or constant back pain. Massage therapy will assist you on your way to recovery as we can resolve the muscle tension and restriction to get you back to your normal activities of living without the stress and aggravation of pain. Don’t ignore it any longer. Massage Therapy is a great option to help resolve the pain you’re experiencing in your lower back. As therapists we will assess your limitations and what is aggravating the pain. Massage therapists’ goal is to reduce restriction and tension in the muscles, ligaments, and fascial tissue to calm the nervous system and reduce stress and inflammation as well as reduce muscle restriction and tension that is causing your lower back pain. It is also a great tool in preventing the pain in the first place Book your next massage appointment today. You are worth the time and self care! Our Osteopath, Mina Kalil is at Rebound on Wednesdays. Many clients are unsure when to see him. Keep reading to learn more!
Osteopathy is a system that aims to restore the stability and function of the joints to help the body heal itself. Osteopaths practice a holistic approach, thus assessing the body as a whole and how it connects, including the internal organs. This is done through a variety of manual therapy tools/techniques to reduce pain, tension and discomfort. Treatment involves several different techniques including, massage, mobilisation/manipulation (the moving/movement of joints), exercise and lifestyle advice. A combination of these will be used to target specific joints and tissues to aid your body back to its most optimal function. You don’t have to be in pain or discomfort to visit an osteopath. Osteopathy can be great in preventing discomfort by finding and treating joints and tissues that are restricted prior to causing pain and discomfort. Osteopaths can manage a range of conditions including: • Neck and back pain • Ankle, hip, knee and foot pain • Shoulder, elbow and arm pain • Arthritis • Sciatica • Headaches/ Migraines • Repetitive strain and overuse injuries • Pregnancy-related discomfort • Tendonitis • Sports related injuries. • Post-surgical pain/management • Post-traumatic pain management (whiplash, post-fracture rehab, concussion) • Stress, digestive related issues Because osteopaths believe that there may be a musculoskeletal link in many conditions, osteopathy may also help with a wider range of disorders.  Can you define your role as a Chiropractor? My role is first and foremost to help my patients. What that entails fully depends on the person but most often the underlying reason to seek care is not so much an injury but a functional barrier. Something has either become difficult or unmanageable. My job is to get patients back to the activities and lifestyle they enjoy at the level they desire. What does a chiropractor treat? Any condition that affects the joints, muscles, or nerves of the body. From headaches to toe sprains (and of course back pain) we do it all. What are the top three most common issues you help clients address? Conditions due to overuse, underuse, or the unlucky people that have had some kind of mishap that resulted in injury. Or better known as sprains/strains, postural related pain/discomfort, and sports injuries. What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use? I’m going to break that down into 3 main categories:
What is your treatment philosophy? Personalize every aspect of care. What each patient needs, expects, and experiences is completely different. Their treatment plans should reflect that. What might a typical appointment look like with you? What is involved in an initial assessment? Follow up appointments vary quite a lot from person to person. They usually include some combination of catching up on how things have gone since the last visit, troubleshooting any setbacks, hands-on care, and self-care (exercises, mobilization, positioning/posture). Initial appointments follow a more routine pattern. First I discuss with my patient what brings them in. My goal is to get a good understanding of what is happening, their general health status and how it impacts their day to day life. That information drives my assessment, usually this involves moving around (think bending, squatting, turning) and some orthopaedic tests to confirm what anatomical structures are involved. From there I communicate my diagnosis and explain what to expect in terms of recovery and treatment. Often a hands-on treatment along with education on what can be done at home to improve outcomes is given on the first visit as well. What is a common question patients ask you? Honestly… how many years of school it takes to become a Chiropractor and how many years I’ve been in practice. The answer is 4 years of undergraduate studies (mine is in Biology and Psychology), 4 years of Chiropractic College, and over 5 years in practice now; and I’m still learning every day. If you could give everyone one piece of advice this winter what would it be? Wash your hands! What do you like to do for fun/or tell us something most people don't know about you? I’m obsessed with UK gardening shows. It gets me through winter until I can get outside myself. <<<Click here to Book an appointment with Dr Stephanie Tabbert>>>  Complied By Binumon Joseph, Registered Physiotherapist
Upper crossed syndrome refers to a particular configuration of overlapping overactive and under-active muscle groups in the neck, chest, and shoulders. Typically, poor posture causes the syndrome, including the forward head posture, which occurs when people use electronic devices, read, and drive. Those with upper crossed syndrome usually have the same or similar set of postural irregularities that people may describe as slouching. Many different stretching and strengthening exercises exist that usually offer relief for symptoms of upper crossed syndrome. Fast facts on upper crossed syndrome
With upper crossed syndrome the muscles of the shoulders, neck, and chest have become deformed. Specifically, the back muscles of the neck and shoulders (upper trapezius, and levator scapula) become extremely overactive and strained. The muscles in the front of the chest (the major and minor pectoralis muscles) become shortened and tight. As a result of these overactive muscles, the surrounding counter muscles become underused and weakened. In upper crossed syndrome, this causes weak muscles in the front of the neck (cervical flexor muscles) and in the lower shoulders (rhomboid and lower trapezius muscles). The condition gets its name from the "x" shape that develops when regions of overactive and under-active muscles overlap. Poor posture can be a cause of upper crossed syndrome. Different movements can cause upper crossed syndrome, but most cases develop through poor posture, specifically sitting or standing with the head forward for prolonged periods. Activities that promote this postural position include:
Symptoms Common characteristics of upper crossed syndrome include:
The best way to treat upper crossed syndrome is through exercise and postural changes. Though some people may feel a lot of discomfort when stretching, it is important that they attempt some form of gentle exercise as restricting activity can cause stiffness and soreness. People must ensure they warm up their tissues before exercising, either with gradual, gentle motions or by having a warm bath or shower. Begin all exercises gently and build up slowly. Prevention The best way to prevent and treat upper crossed syndrome is to avoid activities that require stretching the head forward for extended periods of time. Other tips for preventing upper crossed syndrome include:
Correcting or practicing proper posture is also an important part of avoiding and treating upper crossed syndrome.  What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a complete approach to health care that incorporates diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease using natural therapies. Naturopathic doctors are primary health care professionals trained to treat diverse medical conditions for men, women and children of all ages. Treatment is focused on preventing future illness, and helping patients to improve their overall health and energy. What Conditions can Benefit from Naturopathic Medicine? Naturopathic medicine can benefit people of all ages with a variety of chronic and acute conditions. The most common conditions seen at our clinic include:
What Laboratory Testing is offered? Blood, urine, hair, and saliva analysis are available to investigate a variety of health ailments if needed. This includes food sensitivities and other allergies, hormone imbalances, digestive problems, environmental toxicity, nutrient deficiencies, etc. What can I expect from my first appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor? An initial appointment is approximately 1 hour to allow time for a thorough health assessment. During this visit, current health concerns, as well as relevant medical history, is analyzed. A pertinent physical examination may be performed, and further specialized laboratory or diagnostic testing may be recommended. A personalized treatment plan is then created to help patients achieve their health goals. What are Naturopathic Therapies and Treatment Options? Naturopathic Doctors are licensed to use a range of natural therapeutics that include Traditional Chinese Medicine (acupuncture & herbs), homeopathy, botanical medicine (herbs), hydrotherapy, diet & lifestyle counseling, clinical nutrition. Through their training in these disciplines, a Naturopathic Doctor can draw on all of these fields in providing a custom-tailored treatment plan for patients. How are Naturopathic Doctors trained? A minimum of 7 years of formal post-secondary education is required to receive the designation of "Naturopathic Doctor". This includes 3-4 years of premedical university studies plus completion of an intensive full-time 4-year post-graduate medical program from an accredited Naturopathic medical school, which includes extensive medical education as well as clinical training. Graduates must then pass North American licensing board examinations as well as provincial board examinations. To remain in good standing with the licensing board, Naturopathic doctors must continue their education throughout their careers. All Naturopathic Doctors in Ontario are licensed and regulated Is Naturopathic Medicine Scientific? Yes, Naturopathic doctors are educated in conventional medical sciences in addition to traditional medicine, such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, laboratory diagnosis, clinical & physical diagnosis, radiology, obstetrics, gynecology/women's health, men's health, and pediatrics. More and more researchers are looking to traditional methods of healing to gain insight into modern day illnesses and thousands of modern clinical studies have validated a variety of natural medicines and treatments which are used by Naturopathic Doctors. Is Naturopathic Medicine Safe? Naturopathic medicine has an excellent safety record. The emphasis is on natural sources of medicines that are gentle, non-toxic, and non-invasive. Side effects are rare and Naturopathic doctors are trained about interactions between Naturopathic remedies and conventional medicines. Naturopathic treatments also work well in conjunction with conventional Western treatments. How can Naturopathic Medicine help YOU? Typically patients choose to come to the clinic for one or more of the following reasons:
Book with our Naturopathic Doctor Suzanne Bartolini for an Assessment>>>>>  By Dr Sonya Hamilton, Chiropractor
Acupuncture is an ancient component of Chinese Medicine (TCM) which has gained immense popularity in North America during the past decade due to it's efficacy in relieving pain, and improving quality of movement. Medical acupuncture is an effective treatment approach aimed at reducing and/or relieving pain and improving muscle function and activity of affected areas of the body. A thin, disposable needle is inserted into the skin and tissue in specific areas of the body (as mapped out by TCM Meridians), through the use of western biomechanical principles. Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce its own pain relieving neurochemicals, and it can encourage natural healing through the reduction of inflammation. The use of acupuncture is safe and very effective (as the building body of research literature indicates). The improved energy and biomechanical balance produced by acupuncture stimulates the body's natural healing abilities, and patients often feel better within 5-8 treatments. Acupuncture is very effective in treating a variety of painful disorders such as: Low back pain, Osteoarthritis, Headaches (Migraine/Tension), Neck pain, Rotator cuff tendinitis, IT Band Syndrome, Muscle tightness, Shin splints, Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), Knee pain, Jaw pain, Plantar fasciitis Commonly Asked Questions: What is a treatment like? Contemporary medical acupuncture is generally used by our chiropractor in combination with other manual therapy treatment techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue techniques, and rehabilitation exercises. Dr Hamilton will first complete a comprehensive clinical exam and discuss with you her diagnosis, and clinical options to effectively treat your specific diagnosis. How long might my treatment last? The length depends on the goal of the treatment and individual response. For many local uncomplicated injuries the needles can be inserted for up to 15 to 20 minutes to produce an appropriate effect. Research shows that long lasting results take effect from 5-8 visits. Is it painful? In general, most people report that they barely feel an acupuncture needle being inserted with no pain reported. A short and minor feeling of sharpness occasionally happens when a needle is inserted but it is nothing to worry about. Acupuncture is generally a comfortable experience for most. Interested in booking an Acupuncture Assessment with Dr Hamilton? Click Here>>  What influenced your decision to become a Massage Therapist?
I knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare and what pushed me to choose massage therapy was the opportunity to create and build on client relationships and having the chance to really make a positive difference to someone’s health and lifestyle. I love being able to communicate with my clients about their goals and their progress. What are the top three most common issues you help clients address? The top 3 most common issues that I help clients address are postural awareness, common tension areas, and the importance of movement and exercise. What types of conditions/injuries do you enjoy treating? I can’t name a particular condition or injury that I enjoy treating the most but I can say that of all the areas of the body I do enjoy treating the neck and shoulders the most. I feel that most – if not all – people carry tension and stress in the neck, and some don’t even know how severe the tension really is until they get a massage. What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use? Aside from general Swedish techniques I incorporate Fascial Stretch Therapy into my treatments if I find it necessary and I feel it can benefit my clients. I’m thankful to have been certified with Fascial Stretch because it really helps clients let go if I find that they are really tense and having a difficult time relaxing on the table. Fascial Stretch also provides a deeper stretch in certain areas that client’s may not be able to feel if they were to stretch on their own. I will also be taking an acupuncture course this fall which I am very excited about and I cannot wait to provide this treatment for my clients What is a common question patients ask you? Patients always ask me, “Don’t you get tired from massaging?” The truth is, after a long day it can get tiring. However, being mindful of my body mechanics and my posture when I treat really helps to prevent any heavy strain on my own body and I think that incorporating fitness and activity into my own lifestyle has helped with my endurance and longevity as a health practitioner. If you could give everyone one piece of advice this summer what would it be? My advice would be: make the most of all of your days, not just for the summer but all year round! The hot weather is always nice, but don’t just wait for summer in order to go out and experience things. I find that it’s tough sometimes to find that work-life balance. I myself am guilty for working too much sometimes but this year, I have made sure to make time for things and people that make me happy. What do you like to do for fun/or tell us something most people don't know about you I love anything to do with the outdoors like hiking, camping, kayaking to name a few! In my free time I enjoy going to the gym. It is the BEST outlet for me to distress, recharge, and I just feel absolutely amazing after a good workout. I don’t talk about it often but I l also love to dance. I did Filipino cultural dance for about 10 years and I did competitive hip-hop dance in University. Don’t be surprised if you see me and I’m dancing to no music but the one playing in my head! BOOK AN APPOINTMENT WITH CHARISSE > > >  By: Dr Sonya Hamilton
In our clinic, one of the most common issues I get asked about is sciatica. So what actually is sciatica anyways? Sciatica is a term used to refer to pain which radiates along the sciatic nerve. Sciatic nerve pain is a symptom of an underlying musculoskeletal problem. The sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in our body. It begins from your lower lumbar region (L3), and travels through the buttock region, down the back of your thigh before it branches below the knee. When it becomes irritated, you may experience leg pain/tingling/numbness, lower limb weakness, burning or ‘electrical’ sensations down the back of your leg from the buttock to the ankle. The length of the sciatic nerve, and the fact that it originates from the low back, makes it susceptible to irritation from a number of different sources. Most commonly, sciatic nerve issues result from lumbar disc injury or herniation, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and low back muscle strains. Additionally, it can arise from piriformis syndrome, as the nerve passes through the muscles in the buttock region. Pregnancy and sacroiliac joint issues can also lead to sciatic nerve pain. Some may find the pain is made worse with sitting, and sometimes the pain may not travel beyond the buttock. Treatment for sciatic nerve pain is individualized for each patient, due to the fact that the pain may come from one of many sources. If you encounter sciatic nerve pain, you should work with your chiropractor to determine the cause of your pain, and the best course of treatment. Exercise and activity are important steps you can take towards improving your symptoms. Staying active will keep your muscles conditioned, and will encourage movement in the spine resulting in an improved flow of nutrients to your ligaments and joints. You should avoid high impact activities, and continue with your regular tasks and light exercise. Contrary to common belief, bed rest is not appropriate and may lead to your symptoms being prolonged or worsened. Bed rest is only appropriate in rare cases -if your pain is so severe you cannot move- and should be limited to only a day or two. Some of the common recommendations I make to patients include walking, gentle strengthening of core muscles, stretching of target muscles, low impact aerobics, and nerve flossing. It is important to seek out advice on which activities would help your specific cause of sciatic nerve pain, as the wrong exercises may in fact worsen your symptoms. Chiropractic care helps to decrease your symptoms, and your chiropractor can provide advice on how to prevent future sciatic nerve pain from reoccurring. For most, symptoms of sciatica should resolve with appropriate conservative treatment. Feeling some Sciatic nerve symptoms? Book your assessment with Dr Hamilton >>>>  By Charisse Manalil, RMT
What is KinesioTape? More widely known as K-Tape, it is a taping technique that is intended to provide support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s available range of motion. It also assists to extend the benefits of any manual therapy that was applied to soft tissue within the clinic setting. It has and continues to become popular with sports such as basketball, tennis, soccer and long/short distance running to name a few. However, the use of K-Tape is also appropriate for the average individual who perhaps works at a desk sitting in front of the computer, someone who is constantly bearing heavy loads, or someone who is working with tools majority of their work shift. Whether our bodies feel pain due to repetitive movements, bearing heavy weight, or adapting to improper posture, K-Tape can help reduce tension and provide support depending on how severe or acute the injury. Some Benefits of K-Tape
A proper assessment is very important with any treatment plan. With that said, in order to obtain any desired results from the use of K-Tape it is important to first determine if it is necessary. It is also important to remember that K-Tape does not target the cause of pain or work to eliminate it! It can be used in addition to other treatments such a chiropractic, physiotherapy, or massage therapy! |
AuthorWritten by the team at Rebound Health and Wellness Archives
May 2023
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