Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is the newest concept to come along in the ongoing saga of weight loss solutions. Researchers have discovered that CLA may be the specific nutrient that is responsible for many health benefits including building lean muscle mass and elevating fat loss.

CLA was first known for anti-cancer effects yet researchers have continued studying this nutrient for other benefits. What they are discovering are multiple benefits including accelerated fat loss. There is no magic cure with CLA as it alone cannot do all the work in losing weight, a change of diet is always required when losing weight.

What Is Conjugated Linoleic Acid?

CLA is comprised of several isomers (chemically similar compounds) that are derived from linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid). It occurs naturally in dairy products and in the meat of animals that chew their cud while grazing in fields (i.e., sheep and cattle). It is thought to be a key element in regulating lipid metabolism as well as modulating immunity.

CLA And Weight Loss

There is consistency with what researchers worldwide are discovering; CLA does reduce body fat but to what degree depends on several factors. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition cites results from a 2010 study conducted at the University of Wisconsin. A control group of participants were given CLA for seven months and in that time frame there were significant reductions in body fat.

CLA is marketed as an effective way to reduce body fat. There are no long-term studies completed as of yet, however L.D. Whigham conducted a study in 2004 that was published in Food and Chemical Toxicology. He found that in a one year period, 6 grams of CLA daily showed no adverse side effects in the liver, lipids or throughout the body’s natural general chemistry.

Although the research results for fat loss vary, CLA supplementation appears to be safe and certainly has the potential to help those seeking to lose body fat.
In addition, CLA may protect muscle loss in the elderly. Age-related loss of muscle mass can take its toll on an individual and unless one works out regularly to keep muscles toned, there can be some trouble down the road that includes increased risk of falls and fractures.

Other CLA Benefits

CLA is not only proven to aid in the loss of body fat, it has other benefits that have surprised researchers.

There is a correlation between CLA and the prevention of the development of type II diabetes. Conjugated linoleic acid may improve the insulin sensitivity of fat cells. In addition, CLA may work with biotin and coenzyme Q10 in order to prevent diabetes.

Strangely enough, the potent cancer-fighting conjugated linoleic acid was first identified in the cooking process of some meats (especially beef) as being known for containing cancer-causing substances. Yet, researchers have worked with CLA and lab mice to discover that CLA can protect against tumours.

The type of meat you choose to eat is important. Meat from grass-grazing livestock has half the saturated fat as that from animals fed chemically-altered grains. Far too many livestock nowadays are not feeding where they should be and this results in serious changes of “what” you are eating. Like cattle, chickens that feed in a pasture on natural grains also have less cholesterol, saturated and total fat and more importantly, 100 percent more omega-3 fats as well as CLA.
Taking CLA supplements may not be for everyone. Getting advice from a qualified health professional is advisable before taking this supplement.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a convenient location and qualified professionals to work with you to ensure you are on the right track to losing weight safely. Call 905-918-0419 for more information.

Indulging yourself with therapeutic massage can allow you to briefly escape from the stress of the outside world.  The soothing atmosphere created by fragrant aromatherapy candles and oils and relaxing music can transport you into another world, even if only for an hour or so.  At Richmond Hill, massage therapy is practiced by qualified professionals who will use relaxation techniques to ease pain and dissolve tension in tired muscles.  Massage therapy has a positive effect on every part of the body, both inside and out, and can even improve your moods and increase your mental awareness.

Massage therapy detoxifies the body by stimulating the lymphatic system to release built-up toxins from the body, helping to prevent the onset of potentially deadly diseases.  It also improves circulation, bringing more oxygen to the tissues and organs, including the brain.  Ample flow of oxygen to the brain increases alertness and cognitive function, and improved circulation in the skin helps keep it retain its elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and giving the skin a healthy, youthful look.

Massaging the muscles relieves pain and tension caused by sports, injuries and daily stress.  The saying that stress can kill is literally true, because stress can cause a fight-or-flight reaction in the body, releasing adrenaline and other chemicals that can build up in the tissues to toxic levels.  Massage therapy releases these chemicals from the muscle tissue so that the body can eliminate them.

Massage can actually combat depression and anxiety, improving your mood and leaving you feeling happy and content.  It stimulates the endocrine system to release chemicals called endorphins that affect your emotional state, so the feeling of well being that you often get following a massage is an actual physical response.  Richmond Hill massage therapy can benefit you in every way – body, mind and soul.

There is not a doubt that we have become a society riddled with arthritis and joint pain. Conventional medicine offers prescription drugs that come with a massive list of possible side effects; and still these do not solve the underlining problem. Natural wisdom teaches us that there is always hope beyond pharmaceutical drugs. There is a plethora of studies out there that clearly proves to us that lifestyle changes and dietary habits have a profound effect on our health and this includes arthritis and joint pain. The simplest of remedies like a daily intake of apple cider vinegar can effectively work for many people to naturally ease pain in the joints (and to simply support good health).

The Science Behind The Remedy

With a history rooted in folk medicine, apple cider vinegar is tossed aside by many members of the medical field. Naturopathic doctors and other natural health professionals praise traditional remedies. Apple cider vinegar offers our body a multitude of health benefits, not just relief from arthritis or joint pain.

Apple cider vinegar is rich in minerals that our body needs including magnesium, phosphorus, calcium and potassium. Mineral (as well as vitamin) deficiencies are the root causes of many health problems, and if not detected, deficiencies can worsen health problems including arthritis and joint pain. A diet rich in essential minerals is a critical step to relieving arthritic pain. The potassium in apple cider vinegar may be especially beneficial because it works to prevent calcium build-up in the joints, which is linked to joint stiffness.

Not All Apple Cider Vinegar Is Beneficial

Going to a grocery store may not be the place to find the apple cider vinegar that is beneficial. Most vinegar sold in grocery stores is processed and these are not beneficial to us.  Raw, unprocessed, organic apple cider vinegar is the beneficial vinegar. This type of apple cider vinegar is rich in beneficial enzymes and acids that have a multitude of health benefits. It is encouraging however, to see some grocery stores carrying organic, raw apple cider vinegar. Health food stores carry this also and it is inexpensive.

All of the benefits of apple cider vinegar can only be attained with vinegar that is organic, raw, unfiltered and unprocessed. This type of apple cider vinegar will have a noticeable amount of residue floating around in the bottle. This is called the "mother," the natural accumulation of beneficial enzymes and nutrients. In any other form, including pills, apple cider vinegar is inferior and much less effective.

Joint Health

Nutrients are essential for joint health, so it is imperative that the body absorb the nutrients it gets and use them. Apple cider vinegar makes this possible even for those with arthritis.

There are many experts who suggest that joint pain and arthritis may be linked to toxins that have accumulated in the joints because metabolic waste is often stored in connective tissues. Often, people with joint pain will shun activities that tend to trigger more pain, yet the lack of movement may cause toxins to build-up even more. Apple cider vinegar has pectin and this helps to absorb toxins and get them out of the system, meanwhile the acids in cider vinegar work to purify and detoxify the entire body.

How To Use Apple Cider To Relieve Joint Pain

The simplest way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your daily routines is to mix 1-3 teaspoons in one cup of water three times daily, preferably just before meals. If you find this still too strong to drink, dilute it in more water.

Some people with joint pain state that having a bath with apple cider vinegar in the water helps. Other people report that when mixing two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of coconut oil (or olive oil) makes a soothing ointment to rub on affected joints.

How To Use Apple Cider To Relieve Arthritis

Apple cider vinegar has all the necessary acid content to give the needed balance in the digestive system, and this helps to avoid calcium build-up. Some naturopathic doctors say that apple cider vinegar is to be taken three times a daily with honey and water but only once a day for the first couple of days. (If you are diabetic then omit the honey.)

Apple Cider Vinegar Folk Remedy For Osteoarthritis

Excruciating pain can be caused when acid crystals build up in the joints. Sometimes, this leads to decreased mobility and deformity. It is the acid crystal build-up that causes osteoarthritis and eventually, a daily routine that includes apple cider vinegar will disperse these acids.

Apple Cider Vinegar Treatment For Rheumatoid Arthritis

Apple cider vinegar relieves the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, which is believed to be caused by a streptococcal infection. Not only is apple cider vinegar a great treatment option for arthritis, it is known to work for acid reflux, fatigue, gout, sore throats, heartburn, and numerous other ailments. Results have shown that it helps balance the acid in the body.

Everyone is different and therefore it is highly advised that you seek advice from a health professional as opposed to self-diagnosing and treating. Chiro Med can help. Chiro Med Rehab Centre is conveniently located at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major Mackenzie Drive in Richmond Hill. Visit them online or call 905-918-0419.

Cervical disc herniation typically occurs as we age. Over time discs can lose elasticity and ligaments around the discs can get frail. Damaged discs can rupture or bulge and cause what is known as a slipped or herniated disc. The vast majority of herniated discs occur in the lumbar or the cervical area of the spine.

So where exactly are discs located? Discs act as shock absorbers and are comprised of strong connective tissue located between vertebrae. The cervical spine is located in the neck area and consists of seven vertebrae in total located between the skull and the chest area. Also in the cervical spine are two facet joints that assist in the bending and rotating of the neck and upper back.

A Closer Look At The Discs

A disc is comprised of the "annulus fibrosus," a tough outer layer and the "nucleus pulposus," an almost gel-like centre. Here's where age can affect the discs; the centre of a disc can begin to lose water content which results in the loss of the cushiony effect. As a disc deteriorates, tearing can occur in the outer layer. Displacement of the disc's centre can therefore occur therefore becoming a herniated or ruptured disc. A herniated disc can create pressure on the nerves resulting in tingling, numbness pain or weakness in the arms or shoulders. The first telltale sign that this has happened is usually neck pain.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy basically means the pinching or inflammation of a cervical nerve. So this is cervical disc herniation. It can also be cervical spondylosis which means there are degenerative changes including: the contour of the disc bulging; narrowing of the disc space and; spurs that are the result of the calcification of the disc.

Diagnosis

A medical professional will conduct a thorough examination to determine the exact location of the pain as well as an examination of the neck and complete assessment to determine if there is a loss of sensation or reflex changes

The family physician can also provide a cervical disc herniation diagnosis by requisitioning an X-ray image, CT scan or an MRI. An X-ray will reveal narrowing of the disc space and bone spurs but it cannot show a disc herniation or nerves in the spine. The MRI and CT scans can provide a better picture of all the spinal elements and will usually determine if there is a cervical disc herniation.

Nonsurgical Treatment For Cervical Disc Herniation

Many patients will discover that there is a significant improvement with nonsurgical treatment. A qualified health professional can prescribe nonsurgical treatments including rest, a neck collar, heat treatment, cold packs, physical therapy, hands on therapy, as well as specific exercises. The main objective of nonsurgical treatment is to reduce the irritation of the nerve from the herniated disc material so that pain is relieved. So long as there is a specialized care program designed for your exact needs, and you adhere to the health professional's advice, pain management or elimination can be achieved.

Chiropractic and physiotherapy treatment options are very effective and for most patients. Treatment may involve several visits but the results are worth it.

Spinal decompression therapy is another effective method to manage and/or eliminate pain. It's crucial that patients follow the treatment plan as explained by their health professional in order to maximize the end result which is elimination of pain and increased quality of life.

The good news is that very few people suffering with a cervical disc herniation requires surgery. Most individuals are satisfied with the outcome of nonsurgical treatment.

Winter weather can bring potentially serious injuries if we are not careful. We should always be aware of our surroundings no matter the weather, but in winter it is more important to be aware and take precautions. Needless to say, avoiding winter injuries can save you from lost time at work or from recreational pleasures.

Slip-and-Fall Injuries

Winter can be a beautiful time of year but it presents challenges, especially for those over 40 years of age. Most individuals reach their peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 30. By the time we reach 40, many of us slowly begin to lose bone mass; weakened bones are in danger of breaking if a fall occurs.

Fresh air and spectacular snowscapes can make it tempting for many to enjoy a winter walk. For many individuals walk their dog once or twice a day, regardless of conditions, because it is not an option. Freezing temperatures and hidden icy patches present hazards. Hip fractures, head injuries, and wrist fractures often occur during winter storms. When trying to force the body to stop from an imminent fall, smaller injuries can occur such as bruising, sprained ankles, and pulled muscles.

Across Ontario, every day, dozens of people visit an emergency department for injuries from a fall involving ice and snow, especially older adults.

Tips to Avoid Falls:

• Do not be in a rush; take slower and shorter steps.
• Be sure you are wearing proper winter footwear with excellent quality rubber tread for traction.
• Always be aware of the conditions of what you are walking on, even ice can form on fields.
• Be especially careful walking on the side of the road during and after a storm. Sidewalks covered with plowed snow, and if conditions include poor visibility, can potentially create an accident scenario in which you get hit. If moving vehicles are close by and you are walking on a slippery surface then stop. This will eliminate the potential of you falling into harms way.

Snow Shoveling

Shoveling snow poses another serious injury risk throughout the winter season. Soft tissue injuries of ligaments and muscles, especially in the lower back, are common from the heavy lifting, bending and twisting.

Those with heart trouble know that the mere act of walking in heavy snow can put a significant strain on the heart, let alone shoveling it. In fact, those over the age of 55 are four times more likely to experience a heart problem while snow shoveling.

Do not think that a snow blower is the answer to snow shoveling safely. Snow blower injuries are more common than many realize because people reach in to un-jam snow blowers resulting in the loss of fingers and in some cases, a hand. Always turn the machine off and use a broom handle or another tool to clear a stuck snow blower.

As for snow shoveling, lessen your chances of getting hurt while shoveling snow. Be sure to:

• Pace yourself and if need be take frequent breaks.
• Wear proper winter boots.
• Push snow as opposed to lifting. Avoid twisting and tossing snow over the shoulders.
• Listen to your body and stop if you get short of breath, start sweating profusely, or experience chest pain.

There is more information on our website: Snow Shoveling Safely; be sure to give it a read.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It happens, someone is standing at a corner waiting to cross the street, a car hits a patch of ice causing it to swerve into the innocent bystander. Don`t be that person. When walking outside, even waiting at a bus stop, always be aware of your surroundings. Those who keep their head down, and are wearing ear buds focusing on their cell phone will have a greater chance at being that person who gets hit as opposed to the person who is paying attention and can jump to safety.

Frost Bite and Hypothermia

Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature less than 35 degrees C and results from prolonged exposure to cold environment, drugs, and underlying pathological conditions. In Canada, there are 8,000 deaths a year due to hypothermia. In fact, cold temperatures kill about 20 times as many people worldwide as hot temperatures do. This was an issue addressed by CBC in a May 2015 article titled: Cold deemed deadlier than heat when it comes to weather deaths.

Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. It is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and chin. Skin that is exposed in cold, windy weather is most vulnerable; however, it can occur on parts of our body that is covered, but not sufficiently.

Generally, when you start shivering, it’s your body telling you it’s time to seek warmth. Being proactive by dressing in warm, dry layers, and wearing a hat and gloves is advisable.

If you are driving, always keep extra warm clothes in your vehicle. If you wear shoes, be sure to have boots in the car. Accidents happen and you could literally be left out in the cold for a long period of time. If you are not prepared then you may end up with more troubles than just the accident itself.

CHIRO-MED REHAB CENTRE: REMINDERS

While shoveling, in the event you start to feel heaviness or discomfort in the arms, neck or chest areas, stop shoveling immediately. If it does not subside right away, call 911. Other signs of heart attack to be aware of include a prolonged shortness of breath, dizziness, faintness, excessive sweating, or if you begin to vomit.

Do not work yourself to the point of exhaustion because this contributes to injury, hypothermia and to possible frostbite.

Should you sustain any soft tissue injury while shoveling – stop shoveling right away! If you cannot move or are in serious pain, call 911. If the injury isn’t as severe, then see a health professional as soon as possible. Should there be any inflammation, apply ice right away.

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a proven record of commitment providing quality health care services in the Greater Toronto Area. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can provide chiropractic and physiotherapy to help with winter injuries. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Shoulder pain is one of the most common physical complaints people have and it's no wonder when you consider how complex this area of the body really is.

Our shoulder is made up of several joints combined with tendons and muscles that permit a good range of motion in the arm. It is also made up of three bones, the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). All these different structures that make up the shoulder can be vulnerable to a variety of problems. A frequent source of pain stems from the rotator cuff.

The arm is kept in the shoulder socket by the rotator cuff. These muscles and tendons form a covering around the head of the upper arm bone and attach it to the shoulder blade. The bursa is a lubricating sac situated between the rotator cuff and the acromion (on top of the shoulder). The bursa allows the rotator cuff tendons to glide freely when the arm moves.

The rotator cuff is part of why shoulder impingement syndrome occurs; when the subacromial bursa and the rotator cuff tendons are compressed between the bones of the shoulder, then pain is the result.

Doing work with the arms stretched above the head can cause shoulder soreness for many people but this does not necessarily cause impingement. Shoulder impingement syndrome is diagnosed when the symptoms persist and normal daily activity becomes a struggle. If not treated early, then chronic impingement can lead to rotator cuff tendonitis, bursitis, and if there is no treatment, thinning or rupture of the rotator cuff tendons can occur.

Causes Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome tends to be common in young athletes although it can strike anyone at any time. People who use their arms over their head (such as swimmers, tennis players, painters) are particularly vulnerable.

Although there is no definitive cause, pain can also develop as the result of a minor injury.

Symptoms Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Pain that originates from the rotator cuff generally causes local swelling and tenderness in the front of the shoulder. Stiffness and or pain will be apparent when lifting the arm. In addition, there can be pain when lowering the arm from an elevated position.

At first the symptoms may be so mild that seeking diagnosis or treatment isn't even thought about. What is felt may be interpreted as something that is irritating and the individual continues to function while 'putting up' with the discomfort or pain.

As this pain persists and this condition progresses there may be pain felt at night, loss of strength and motion, and simple tasks such as zipping up a pair of pants may become difficult.

If the pain suddenly occurs, the shoulder may be tender and all movement may be painful and very limited.

Diagnosis Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Discussing your symptoms with your health professional is important. A health professional will perform a thorough examination of the shoulder. He or she will check to see whether it is tender in any area and to measure the range of motion of your shoulder, a health professional will have you move your arm in several different directions as well as testing your strength.

Getting a proper diagnosis by a health professional that specializes in this field is important because there may be other possibilities such as a pinched nerve. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has assisted countless individuals obtain a proper diagnosis and has provided treatment geared specific to each individual.

Treatment Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

There are several treatment options available at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre. Nonsurgical and noninvasive treatments are prescribed to Chiro-Med patients and the professionals ensure that each person is treated as an individual.

In addition to treatment there is rehabilitation to make sure that everything possible is being completed to thwart off re-occurrences.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a proven record of providing quality care and helping people recover from shoulder impingement syndrome.

Core stability is at the centre of improving your winter sports performance. No matter what sport you participate for enjoyment or for competition, improving your ability to become better includes core stability.

The body’s core is often overlooked by many when they are trying to improve their skiing, skating, curling or any other winter sport they partake in. The central core of the body must be in great shape in order for us to be maximum for stabilization. Core stability for every one of us can be viewed as though it is a pillar; pillars are used as support for a building. In an active individual minimizing joint loads, regardless of the activity, is essential in helping to prevent injury and this is part of what core stability can provide.

Like any other part of our body, strengthening the core takes special exercises. These muscles are located deep inside. They include:

• The transversus abdominus is a very important core muscle. From the back it wraps around the torso, the top of the pelvis and attaches to the fascia pubic bone. It adds stability to the pelvis and lower back and compresses the abdominal area.
• The lumbar multifidus is on an angle from the sides to the tips of the vertebrae. Due to the angle, it helps with rotational stability. Many studies have shown that those with chronic lower back pain tend to have significant atrophy of the multifidus.
• The pelvic floor muscles connect the sacrum and pelvis to the pubic bone and these stabilize the bottom of the abdominal cavity. The pelvis floor, transversus abdominus and multifidus work together to stabilize the pelvis. The best way to strengthen the pelvic floor is by doing Kegel exercises.
• The transversospinalis muscles run from the sides of the vertebrae to the tips of the vertebrae. These muscles are also important for rotational stability.
• We have two oblique muscles and the internal oblique is the deeper of the two. It runs on an angle from the pelvis up to the ribs. In addition to helping stabilize the core, it also helps spine mobility.

All of the deep core muscles are very important for athletes and for all of us. When you perform movements (or exercises) that require the spine to be stable, you need these core muscles working well for you.

Those in martial arts have known for decades that well-developed inner core muscles are required in order to avert injuries and to produce powerful, balanced and solid movements effectively. When the core muscles are not in shape then core stability is not where it should be therefore athletic performance is not what it can be, strains are common, and susceptibility to injuries increases.

Regardless of it being a winter sport or any physical activity, developing core stability will also help with better posture, which is critical if you are active in winter sports (as well as for anyone). Better posture also leads to a better functioning respiratory system. Regardless of whether you are an athlete at the competitive level or an individual who just likes to participate in a winter activity once in a while, developing core stability leads to overall better health.

Simple At-Home Core Stability Exercises

Make a Bridge

Lay on the floor with your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent. Squeeze your gluteals and push upward with your hip until your body makes a straight line from your knees to the upper body. Shoulders remain on the floor.

One Hand Flying

Kneel on the floor and put your hands (flat) below your shoulders and be sure that your knees are below your hips. Slowly extend the left leg back and the right arm forward as far as you can. Maintain that straight line as long as you are able, slowly bring back and then repeat with the opposite hand and leg.

Legs Up

Lay on your back with both knees bent. Tighten your abdominal muscles and slowly lift one leg straight into the air. Once as high as you are able, hold that position. Keep you knee slightly bent at all times. Slowly lower the leg then repeat with the opposite leg. Try lifting both legs at the same time as high as you are able, hold, and slowly lower.

These are some examples of how easy it is to start working on tightening your core muscles so you can improve core stability. Once you have improved your core stability you’ll notice a huge difference in your performance on the ice, on the ski slopes or anywhere else you enjoy sports.

If you need assistance or need some advice in strengthening your core muscles Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can help. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you lessen your chances of injury. Visit Chiro Med online or call 905-918-0419 for more information.

The origin of acupuncture dates back to ancient China, 2500 years ago or more.  The practice was adopted by neighbouring Asian countries including Vietnam, Korea and Japan, and was brought to Europe by some of the first Chinese settlers.  Acupuncture did not become well known in North America until the early 1970s, when President Nixon traveled to China.  During this trip, one of the reporters who accompanied Nixon developed appendicitis and had to undergo surgery, after which he was given acupuncture to treat a minor complication that arose.  The reporter wrote about his experience, introducing North America to the practice of Acupuncture.  Today, acupuncture is commonly practiced throughout the world with proven success.  Richmond Hill acupuncture experts can provide professional acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of ailments.

Acupuncture can be used to assist with weight loss or quitting smoking, and it is also very effective in the treatment of substance abuse problems, even severe addictions.  It can eliminate chronic pain and also be used to treat depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.  Chinese surgeons even use acupuncture to control pain during surgery.  In some cases, they perform the entire surgery with the patient awake with no assistance from drugs whatsoever.

The way that acupuncture works, according to Chinese medicine, is that energy runs in several channels throughout the body.  These channels are called meridians.  When the flow of energy becomes blocked, pain or illness can occur.  Acupuncture needles inserted at key points in the meridians unblock the energy, allowing it to flow freely.  According to modern science, inserting the needles in these specific points stimulates the body to release chemicals that address whatever physical problem the point is connected to, correcting the body’s biochemical balance so that it can heal itself.  Contact a Richmond Hill acupuncture specialist to discuss treatment for any type of ailment that you may have.