Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Clinic in Richmond Hill

Meidal epicondylitis, or more commonly referred to as golfer's elbow, is actually a similar injury to tennis elbow only it affects the inside area of the elbow. Golfer's elbow is commonly experienced by those who 'throw' and with golfers hence the nickname. Sometimes golfer's elbow is also referred to as flexor pronator tendinopathy; this elbow pain is seen in tennis players who use a lot of top spin on their forehand shots.

Overuse injuries of the elbow are especially common among athletes. Any sport that subjects an athlete to repetitive elbow flexion-extension or wrist motion can cause these syndromes. This is a condition that can occur at any age; interestingly it is commonly seen in patients between 40 and 60 years of age.

Prenatal massage can bring much needed relief to a woman carrying a baby. Every woman can expect some stiffness and muscular tension throughout the pregnancy as the uterus grows and sometimes this tension can take its toll on the mom-to-be.

Massage therapy during a pregnancy is gaining popularity as moms-to-be are realizing that the benefits of prenatal massage include relief. Back pain is perhaps the most common side effect of pregnancy. The added weight puts a lot of strain on the spine and often what starts in pregnancy has continued after the birth. If a woman has other small children while pregnant, carrying them around while pregnant can exacerbate symptoms.

What Conditions Can Be Treated With Massage Therapy?

Many women have discovered that massage can help relieve back pain. In addition to soothing that muscle tension, other prenatal massage benefits include:

• Relief of edema.
• Reduction of swelling in the ankles, feet and hands.
• Reduces swelling by stimulating circulation throughout the body.
• Reduction of leg cramps and swelling in the legs.
• Lessens sciatic pain.
• Helps to relax and reduce anxiety throughout pregnancy.
• Massage helps to prevent insomnia and promotes a better sleep.
• Prenatal massage can help relax the unborn child when the abdomen is gently stroked.
• Lessens muscular discomfort in the lower back and neck.
• Increases blood and lymph flow which aids in the elimination of toxins throughout the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
• Increased blood flow also means oxygen is increased in the blood stream which in turn delivers more nutrients to the baby.
• Massage stimulates release of endorphins into the brain and nervous system. (Endorphins are natural pain killers in the body.)
• Helps to strength the immune system.

Safe Techniques For Pregnancy Massage

Prenatal massage experts modify massage techniques to address the changes a woman's body as she goes through pregnancy. A pregnant woman will have her blood volume increase dramatically, almost by 50 percent and yet blood flow to the legs tends to become sluggish. These changes can put a woman at risk of blood clots in her legs.

Massage therapists know that they need to avoid deep massage on the legs as well as any strong pressure. What they do use are light, slow, gentle strokes on the legs and all massage strokes are in the direction of the heart.

Before any therapeutic massage, it is recommended that a woman speak with her obstetrician first to be sure there will be no contraindications.

Many massage therapists won't give a prenatal massage during the first trimester as there is a risk of miscarriage. Some experts argue that prenatal massage does not directly cause a miscarriage, but there is no research out there that shows a link between a massage and a miscarriage. Regardless, if a woman is at risk of miscarriage then she is not advised to have a pregnancy massage.

Tips to Remember:

• Always be sure to tell the massage therapist you are pregnant and how far along.
• Avoid aromatherapy oils.
• Be sure that your massage therapist is specially trained in pregnancy massage and is certified.

Massaging the wrong areas or focusing on certain acupressure points have been known to trigger uterine contractions in some women making it vital that a prenatal massage be given by a qualified health professional. Massage therapists trained in prenatal massage know exactly what areas to focus on and provide the maximum benefits during the massage therapy.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has qualified massage therapists on staff to help you get through your pregnancy as healthy as possible. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major MacKenzie Drive in the heart of Richmond Hill. Visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 for more information today.

Studies have shown that acupuncture offers some benefits to those who are trying to lose weight. The body has energy meridians and the ancient practise of acupuncture helps individuals in a myriad of ways including weight loss.

Weight gain isn’t the result of just a bad diet; there are other factors that contribute to gaining weight. Bad diet habits combined with little or no exercise is perhaps the main reason people gain weight but for some, there are other factors. Hormone imbalances and a slow metabolism (usually linked to lack of exercise) are other reasons.

Often people will blame diabetes for their weight, but most individuals with diabetes get this as a result of eating too much food, including sugar. Results of a large epidemiological study conducted at University of California San Francisco, suggest that sugar may have a direct, independent link to diabetes. An article on the university’s website says:

Researchers examined data on global sugar availability and diabetes rates from 175 countries over the past decade. After accounting for obesity and a large array of other factors, the researchers found that increased sugar in a population’s food supply was linked to higher Type 2 diabetes rates, independent of obesity rates. Their study was published Feb. 27 in PLOS ONE.

Losing weight is a major money-making industry with all sorts of gimmicks, products, and pills offering results. Americans spend over $33 billion every year on weight loss programs. Sadly, over 90 percent fail in their attempt to lose the weight they need to maintain good health. The reality is that changing the diet and regular exercise is critical in achieving results. This is much easier said than done and this is why people tend to seek out “quick fixes” when wanting to lose weight. There are additional ways that can help, but again, diet and exercise must be part of the goal to achieve and maintain results.

Acupuncture

Using acupuncture to help with weight loss is a multi-pronged approach. According to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, recent studies have shown that when acupuncture is combined with traditional methods of weight loss, patients lose more weight.

A study published at the National Institutes of Health showed that acupuncture in combination with diet restriction was found to be effective for weight loss. Acupuncture can be used as a synergistic treatment option for obesity control (and weight loss in general).

Of particular interest is acupuncture’s ability to influence obesity hormones. Research measuring the effectiveness of acupuncture for weight loss found that acupuncture treatments increased ghrelin, a hormone that regulates fat storage and metabolism. Acupuncture can also strengthen the function of the liver. The liver is the organ that produces chemicals critical for digestion, the processing of nutrients and breaking fat down. It is suspected that acupuncture may increase tone in the smooth muscle of the stomach to help individuals obtain the “full” feeling.

According to Dr. Oz, acupuncturists focus on the four acupuncture points that target hunger points on the ear. Tiny sterilized needles are inserted along these inner channels to decrease the "heat" generated along these meridians and to stimulate centres that trigger the release of neurochemicals and hormones that help in weight loss.

As with any changes to the body, there may be minor side effects to acupuncture treatment that include fatigue, soreness, and possible muscle spasms. In the weight loss process, the body will experience changes including hormone levels (for the better).

It is very important to seek the services of a qualified acupuncturist in order to obtain best results. Be sure to follow through with diet suggestions and exercise regularly.

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 help you develop a personalized plan to help you safely lose weight. 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.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4877795/

https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2013/02/13591/quantity-sugar-food-supply-linked-diabetes-rates

https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/11/05/acupuncture-can-help-weight-loss

http://www.doctoroz.com/article/acupuncture-and-weight-loss

Many people only visit a Richmond Hill chiropractor only when they have back pain, not realizing that regular chiropractic care can benefit many other parts of the body besides just the spine.  A qualified chiropractor can provide relief for a variety of ailments related to the spine, such as joint pain, headaches and sciatic nerve problems, but many people are surprised to learn that they can also find relief from seemingly unrelated disorders, such as asthma, allergies, and digestive disorders such as constipation simply by visiting a chiropractor on a regular basis.  Chiropractic treatment is also effective for carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains and other minor injuries.

When you visit Richmond Hill for chiropractic treatment you can rest assured that you will receive the highest quality care from a qualified professional.  Your chiropractor will assess your condition and schedule treatment accordingly.  It is important to understand that it will take more than just one visit to correct your problem.   In order to maintain good health, you should visit your chiropractor regularly, even when you are feeling well and pain-free.  Your Richmond Hill chiropractor will advise you of the frequency of visits that he or she recommends, and by faithfully attending your scheduled chiropractor visits you can be sure that you will notice a difference in your energy levels, moods and overall feeling of well-being.

So remember, don’t wait until you are injured or feeling pain before you schedule an appointment with a Richmond Hill chiropractor.  Make chiropractic care part of you regular health maintenance regimen and it may be possible for you to ward off pain before it starts.  Maintaining proper spinal health will help keep all parts of your body functioning properly and keep you feeling better than you have ever felt before.

Optimum joint mobility is the result of supple, healthy joint tissue and joint elasticity. Collagen is a vital component of tissue, bones and cartilage required for healthy joints. Research suggests that boosting collagen intake can contribute to joint health, but can it actually repair? There is no shortage of articles on the Internet that make claims one way or the other, but rarely do they mention what types of collagen there are and what their specific functions are. Yes, collagen can assist in joint repair; but knowing what specific collagen, how it is produced, and other therapies you must do is the key in achieving results.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is the fundamental structural protein that forms connective tissue; it is a vital component of the joints, bones, muscles, tendons and skin. Essential to the formation of connective tissue, it is the highest source of protein found in the body. Collagen contains specific vital amino acids including arginine, proline, glycine and hydroxproline.

The human anatomy contains and utilises over 20 variants of collagen amino acids, however there are three main types of collagen that comprise 80 to 90% of the body.

Different Types of Collagen Explained

First, all three types of collagen decrease with age. The knees generally take the brunt of this loss earlier in life in those who are regularly engaged in vigorous physical active and are not keeping up with the levels of collagen regeneration required for recovery.

There are actually 28 different types of collagen with three being the main types. These three types of collagen are simply named I, II, and III. Collagen type II is the most significant for joint health. Of the three, collagen type II is believed to be most effective in targeting and enhancing joint cell health.

Collagen Type I

This collagen is in our skin, artery walls, bones, tendons and in scar tissue. Type I is the most abundantly found in the body. It is a fibrillar type collagen, and inevitably has been the best investigated collagen.

Collagen Type II

This collagen is found in our cartilage and respiratory tubes. Type II is a fibrillar collagen, and the main component of cartilage. This collagen constitutes 95% of the collagens and approximately 60% of dry weight. Mutations in type II collagen result in several types of chondrodysplasia, leading to premature osteoarthritis.

Collagen Type III

This collagen is predominantly found in blood vessels. Type III collagen is a fibrillar collagen which is secreted by fibroblasts and other mesenchymal cell types. This makes it a huge factor in various inflammation-associated pathologies such as viral and non-viral liver diseases, kidney fibrosis, lung injury, and vascular disorders.

In order for collagen to help repair joints Type II is the collagen people need to have the most of in order to attain any level of relief. Having supplements will help but the body also needs to be able to produce collagen as well. Eating foods high in lysine and arginine will help collagen production. Getting both of these amino acids from food is important.

Collagen and Vegetarian Diets

A vegetarian diet is known to prevent some diseases but it may influence the balance of carbohydrate and fat metabolism as well as collagen synthesis. Research published at Karger Journals in Switzerland, (Vegetarian diet affects genes of oxidative metabolism and collagen synthesis), indicates that there is reduced collagen synthesis in vegetarians, and this could also play a role in the aging process.

However, all is not lost for those adhering to a vegetarian diet. There are some foods that can help but seeking the advice from a qualified health practitioner is strongly advised.

Without Vitamin C There Is No Collagen

Vitamin C intake is critical to collagen production. There is a plethora of research that indicates many people are not getting enough vitamin C to maintain proper health; further to that, it has been argued that the recommended daily values fall short of what we really need.

Vitamin C deficiency, although uncommon in North America, results in our bones being unable to properly manufacture collagen and its connective tissues. The body literally deteriorates as collagen is broken down and not replaced. This results in joints wearing down as tendons weaken.

Denatured vs Undenatured Collagen

Denatured collagen is hydrolyzed. Most of the type II collagen that is derived from the sternum of chickens is denatured or hydrolyzed. This means that high heat and possibly even chemicals have been used to process it. These processes fundamentally alter the molecular structure of the protein, rendering the collagen ineffective as an immunomodulator. There seems to be no peer-reviewed scientific studies showing that denatured type II collagen provides joint health benefits.

Undenatured type II collagen is produced using little or no heat and processing is bare minimum. The processing required is just enough to concentrate the collagen and make it soluble. This type of collagen supplement is the only form that the body can use effectively.

Collagen Helps to Repair Joints

Collagen can help repair joints but under the proper conditions. Not only are foods rich in vitamin C needed (possibly supplementation as well), but also foods high in lysine and arginine ( i.e., fish, chicken, beef, lamb, milk, cheese, beans, and mung bean sprouts). Avoiding foods that cause inflammation is really important and this means reducing or eliminating gluten and anything that contains processed sugar. In addition to diet, exercise is important, but knowing what exercises can be done safely should be approved by a qualified health professional.

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 help you develop a personalized plan to ensure your joint health is as good as it possible can be. 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.

Resources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128098479000015
https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/efficacy-of-oral-collagen-in-joint-pain--osteoarthritis-and-rheumatoid-arthritis-2167-7921-1000233.php?aid=87350
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/collagen-type-iii-alpha-1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18772587

Arthritis is a health condition in which its name is derived from Greek: “arthron”, meaning a joint, and “itis”, meaning inflammation. According to The Arthritis Society there are over one hundred types of arthritis but for simplicity sake, there are basically two categories of arthritis, inflammatory and degenerative.

Inflammatory Arthritis

Almost any joint in the body can be affected by inflammatory arthritis. Inflammatory arthritis can start in many ways but the most common is a slow onset of stiffness and joint pain (in one joint) that spreads over a period of weeks or months affecting other joints. In some cases, it can even start rapidly.

Synovium is a thin layer of tissue that lines every joint in the body and it is responsible for creating small amounts of fluid to maintain normal joint lubrication. For reasons yet to be conclusively determined when inflammatory arthritis starts the body’s immune system turns against the synovium and attacks it. The immune system then releases chemicals that cause stiffness, pain and eventually can damage or destroy the bone and cartilage.
For some individuals it doesn’t seem to take that long to become a chronic problem that has a lifelong impact. Each person is different and what pain remedies work for one may not work for another.

Rheumatoid arthritis falls under this category of arthritis and it tends to mostly affect the smaller joints in the feet and hands. Other forms of inflammatory arthritis include:

• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Systemic lupus erythematous

Those between the ages of 30 and 60 tend to get these types of arthritis the most although any one of these can start at any age. The common morning stiffness symptom can last over one hour.

Degenerative Arthritis

Some people are afflicted with degenerative arthritis and this occurs when (over time) the cartilage becomes rough and wears away. As a result of this, the bone thickens and the affected joint becomes inflamed causing pain, swelling and even a feeling of warmth.

Cartilage plays an important role in the body as it is the tough elastic-like material that covers the ends of our bones creating a protective shield. In a healthy person, the cartilage is somewhat like a shock absorber when weight is applied; it also creates a lubricated surface so that the joints can move with ease.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a type of degenerative arthritis and generally affects the joints at the base of the big toe, knees, hips, fingers and at the base of the thumb. A person with OA may notice some stiffness in the affected area and it tends to last up to twenty minutes. As the joints get used throughout the day the discomfort level increases.

Another form of degenerative arthritis is degenerative disc disease. This or OA starts slow in the body and within a period of months or even years, gets worse.

Treating Arthritis

After a diagnosis by a health professional, he or she can then best suggest what treatment options are best depending on several factors. If discovered in the early stages the good news is that treatment options more than likely include non-medication therapies that include:

• Turmeric
• Physiotherapy
• Chiropractic
• Education
• Exercise
• Nutrition
• Glucosamine Sulphate
• Relaxation techniques

Prescription medications or over-the-counter medications tend to only cover the symptoms and the pain as opposed to strategies to effectively minimize (and in some cases eliminate) symptoms.

Implementing a holistic approach to help manage symptoms and pain is important when looking for treatment options. There are many options to consider in order to tailor a treatment plan specific to each individual. Diet is very important when managing pain and therefore must be part of a successful treatment program. There are also other rehabilitation solutions that are available at a chiropractic and physiotherapy office such as Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill.

For some people there are several pain management techniques that can be explored in order to minimize or even eliminate the need for medications. Often medications come with a long list of side effects that can do more harm than good and this must be taken into consideration in any treatment plan.

If you suffer with any form of arthritis, Chiro-Med Rehab Clinic in Richmond Hill has a walk-in clinic conveniently located at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major MacKenzie Drive in the heart of Richmond Hill. The health professionals at Chiro-Med can help you examine what options are available in order for you to live as pain-free as possible. Drop on by or call 905-918-0419 for more information or to book a consultation.

Studies have proven that regular massages are highly beneficial to our overall health and for treating specific ailments as well. What many people are not aware of is that hot stone massage therapy can be just as beneficial and has a long history of doing so.

Brief History

• Hot stone massage may have originated in India 5,000 years ago from the ancient healing tradition of Ayurveda. Smooth river bed stones were warmed or cooled for use in healing and massage.
• The Japanese used warm stones to help their abdomens improve digestion. This apparently dates back about 4,000 years ago.
• More than 2,000 years ago, ancient Chinese used heated stones to improve the function of internal organs.
• Native Americans used hot stones during rituals and in sweat lodges and many are still using them today.
• For hundreds of years, Hawaiians have used hot stones for massage and healing for many years. Heated lava stones were used on the body to help increase blood circulation.
• Ancient Greek and Roman cultures used many forms of massage for healing and for simple relaxation including hot stones.

What is a Hot Stone Massage?

Placing smooth, warmed up stones in order to achieve results needs to be done by a qualified therapist. Anyone can place hot stones on the body where there may be an ache, but in order to target specific ailments and to properly increase circulation having a trained professional is important.

Massage oils are used in the process in addition to smooth stones. Basalt stones are commonly used as well as various river stones. These stones are safe to use, sterilised and properly heated so that no discomfort will be experienced by the patient. The stones are heated in a sterile heating unit that either provides a temperature reading or has an adjustable thermostat control.  The massage therapist always holds the stones first before touching them to your body, which ensures that the temperature will not be too hot.

Stones are strategically placed at various points on the body and as the warmth penetrates the skin the client will experience a massage and effleurage. Stones are sometimes used to massage and glide over targeted areas to assist with healing.

The therapist might also leave heated stones in specific points along the sides of the spine, in the palms of the hands, on the stomach, or even between toes; this assists in improving the flow of energy throughout the body.  Heat warms and relaxes muscles allowing the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if required. Many people find the warmth of the hot stones to be quite comforting and deeply relaxing.

This form of therapy is often used for the same conditions as a regular massage:

• Anxiety
• Back pain
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Osteoarthritis

Hot Stone Massages Are Not For Everyone

While hot stone massage is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed massage therapist, it's not right for everyone. This is not recommended for those who have had recent surgery, or have certain medical conditions, or have wounded areas (including inflamed areas). Pregnant women and children should avoid hot stone massages as well.

Palliative Care and Hot Stone Massages

According to an article published in the Journal of Oncology, massage therapy is a popular adjunct to cancer palliation. There was a study conducted with favourable results. It was discovered that those in palliative care who received a hot stone massage saw a decrease in some very common symptoms they commonly experience.

Most individuals who were studied reported a decrease in:

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Depression
• Anxiety

However, there was no difference in lack of appetite.

If you feel you need a hot stone massage or are wondering if it is right for you then Chiro-Med can help.

For more information about hot stone massage or how chiropractic and physiotherapy can help you, please give Chiro-Med a call. Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has been committed to providing quality health care services to the Greater Toronto Area for a decade. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket; call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Link to the study done on palliative care patients:

http://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/jco.2015.33.29_suppl.179

Have you ever thought of becoming a physiotherapist? A physiotherapist is a university-educated health professional and is a highly recognized member in the health profession.

What Services Do Physiotherapists Perform?

Physiotherapists work in several areas that include orthopedics, neurology, sports, pediatrics, cardiorespiratory, seniors’ health as well as other areas.

Those who require the services of a physiotherapist will be required to complete an assessment that may include health history, joint range of motion, evaluation of pain and movement patterns, reflexes, strength, and cardiorespiratory status.

Physiotherapists examine laboratory tests, relevant x-rays, medical records and surgical notes. Based on the assessment the physiotherapist establishes a diagnosis and works in tandem with the patient to develop an individual goal plan and treatment programs.

Treatments that physiotherapists use include electrical modalities such as TENS or ultrasound, manual therapy, acupuncture and therapeutic exercise. A physiotherapist’s job is to promote independence. Emphasis is placed on what the patient can do for themself and on education to prevent future injuries.

Becoming a Physiotherapist In Ontario

Physiotherapists in Ontario must complete a Master’s degree at one of the five Ontario Universities, a Canadian university outside Ontario or if an individual is educated outside of Canada their education is reviewed to ensure that it is substantially equivalent to the content of a Canadian physiotherapy (or physical therapy) program.

The five universities that offer this program (all at the Master level) include:

• University of Toronto
• University of Ottawa
• McMaster University
• Queen’s University
• Western University

After university, in order to practice a person must be registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has professional physiotherapists on staff who are registered with the College. If you are in need of physiotherapy our walk-in clinic is conveniently located at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major MacKenzie Drive in the heart of Richmond Hill. Visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 for more information about services and about becoming a physiotherapist in Ontario.