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Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Clinic in Richmond Hill

At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre, we are pleased to offer you physiotherapy and chiropractor services, as well as exercise and rehabilitation therapy. If you need help, you can be sure that we will find the right modality specific to your unique needs or condition.

We Accept All Extended Health Care Insurances, Motor Vehicle Accidents And W.S.I.B.

About Chiro-Med

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre is committed to working with patients, providing program-specific health care services so they may achieve optimal health.

Richmond Hill Clinic

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has been committed to providing quality health care services to the inhabitants of Richmond Hill and the surrounding areas.

Services

At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre, we are pleased to offer you physiotherapy and chiropractor services, as well as exercise and rehabilitation therapy. If you need help, you can be sure that we will find the right modality specific to your unique needs or condition.

Assessments

Our assessments are exceptional, utilizing the latest technology and techniques to thoroughly evaluate our patients' conditions. Our team of highly skilled professionals is dedicated to providing accurate and effective diagnoses that help us tailor treatment plans to each patient's unique needs.

In-Home Assessments

In-home assessments are used to evaluate the various tasks a claimant may have at home, and to what extent their injuries will impair their ability to perform these tasks.

Work-Sites Assessments

A work-site assessment is an objective analysis that is used to provide information on the physical demand requirements of the claimant’s pre-accident job.

Functional Abilities Evaluation

A functional abilities evaluation (FAE) is an assessment that utilizes scientific principles and measurements to analyze the abilities of a claimant as relevant to their pre-injury level of function.

Testimonials

Hear what our cherished clients have to say about our services and staff.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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"After being involved in a car accident I started being treated at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre and have had an amazing experience at the clinic. Dr. Sanjari and his staff are amazing! They're friendly, helpful, always greet you with a smile and are very knowledgeable about what they do. The treatment i've received has been second to none and the results have significantly improved my quality of life. Thank you Chiro-Med Team."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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"After being involved in a car accident I started being treated at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre and have had an amazing experience at the clinic. Dr. Sanjari and his staff are amazing! They're friendly, helpful, always greet you with a smile and are very knowledgeable about what they do."

B.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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"Excellent facility. Great chiropractor, excellent massage specialists and other treating practitioners. I had the best body massage here. Very friendly and charming staff. Very good in keeping time so can plan out other activities."

M.M.

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"Since starting with the group at Chiro-Med my flexibility and strength has improved 150%.  I have found the employees at Chiro-Med exceptional."

R.N.

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"I can not express enough how grateful I am the the staff at Chiro-Med. The quality of service and professionalism is the best that I have encountered. Dr. Sanjari is very knowledgeable and was able to resolve my issues in a few sessions. I wish I had found them sooner as the issues I had were present for over a year, and now it is a pleasure to be once again pain free. Thank you!!"

D.W.

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"Staff here are the very best you'll ever find.  Friendly, always smiling, helping you out in any way the can. Than there is their work which is so comforting and relaxing. Makes one feel like you can always trust them now and into the future."

D.W.

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"This location is very convenient for me, specially the parking space. They are professional, I am so happy with the doctor. They always try to help as much as they can. I can see that they really care about the patient.  The staff are very friendly and helpful.  In general I am so happy and satisfied with the services that I get here."

A.P.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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"Thanks to Dr. Sanjari my vertigo has been eliminated and my spinal problems, lower back pain and neck pain has been greatly decreased. He is professional, knowledgeable and courtesy, his staff is also courtesy and kind. I recommend Chiro-Med."

L.T.

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"Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a great positive and relaxing environment. Staff are professional and friendly. I would recommend that you drop by and check out the services for yourself."

L.T.

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"Chiro-Med is a very professional and pleasant rehab centre. The customer service is great. The receptionists are always very kind, professional and pleasant. They always great you with a smile and quite understanding."

G.K.

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"Chiro-Med Rehab Centre is a very friendly, professional and a great environment. The staff are all very well trained."

T.D.

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"Chiro-Med is a very organized and clean facility. The staff is very helpful and polite. It’s definitely the best rehab facility (centre)."

S.B.

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"They provide you with quick friendly services. They are caring, helpful, and knowledgeable and they remember your name."

R.K.

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"I had lower back pain during my pregnancy and Dr. Sanjari really helped me. The staff is really nice, kind and friendly. I like the fact that they remind you of your appointments the day ahead."

R.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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"People here make you feel like family, always at ease, friendly smiles, easy going, and always there to help you in any way they can."

J. W.

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"My experience at Dr.Sanjari’s clinic has been wonderful. I do not feel like I am going to a clinic. Dr. Sanjari and all of his staff are friendly and helpful professionals that make you want to return, especially because you see results. I couldn’t ask for a better medical experience."

E. S.

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"The staff is extremely friendly. They are really involved by helping the patient and explaining the best treatment option. Knowing that, patients will get motivated and push themselves to get better."

E. Z.

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"I got the DonJoy knee brace about a month ago and the difference is night and day. I’m able to walk and bike once again. I saw an immediate change to the stability of my knee, even stairs are not so daunting to face anymore. I’m very happy to be mobile once more. Even dancing all night no longer proves to be a problem. Most difficult part of getting my brace was the colour / pattern choice. I’d highly recommend this type of brace. By the way my knee injury consists of a blown ACL and severely damaged meniscus!"

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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"I got the DonJoy knee brace about a month ago and the difference is night and day. I’m able to walk and bike once again. I saw an immediate change to the stability of my knee, even stairs are not so daunting to face anymore. I’m very happy to be mobile once more. Even dancing all night no longer proves to be a problem."

S.G.

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Products

Our products are made with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, providing exceptional durability and performance. Customers love how easy they are to use and how they have improved their daily lives.

Articles

Explore our informative articles which provide valuable insights and information about the industry, technology, and the latest modalities.

Apple Cider Vinegar Can Relieve Arthritis And Joint Pain

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.

Core Muscle Strength and Your Posture

Most of us hear how important good posture is and unfortunately there are some who don’t understand why until it is too late. Our core muscles play a very important role in our posture. Imagine your core muscles as a link that connects the upper and lower body. Whether you’re hitting a baseball or sweeping the floor the motions for these actions either flow through or originate in your core. Regardless of where motion originates it ripples through your body. The condition of your core muscles determine how well (or not well) your arms and legs physically function. Having a strong core is essential for good health, a nice posture, great balance, and stability. If your core muscles are not in shape then this makes you more susceptible to falls, injuries and back problems.

Let’s look at some ways in which strong core muscles can help you.

Every day movements. We tend to take for granted the ability to bend over and put on our shoes, to pick up a box, or to do our household chores. The ability to perform even these simplest of tasks calls on the core muscles.

At work. There are many jobs in which we twist, lift and even stand for long periods of time. Sitting at a desk also requires the use of core muscles. The more out of shape your core muscles are the faster you’ll become stiff and possibly even sore. Taking breaks, stretching and making sure your posture is good is critical.

Good back health. Far too many people suffer from back pain and most of this can be prevented by exercises that promote strong core muscles.

Good posture. Weak core muscles contribute to slouching and over a period of time this will cause a myriad of back problems. Strong core muscles lessen the stress on the spine and allows you to breathe better as well.

What Exactly Are Core Muscles?

Strong core muscles are not washboard abs. Our core muscles are hidden beneath the exterior muscles. These deeper muscles include the transverse abdominals, the pelvic floor, the diaphragm and many other deep muscles.

Your core muscles are known as either stabilizers or movers.

  • The stabilizer muscles attach directly to the spine and support its movement.
  • The movers are the muscles that support the stabilizer muscles and work with them to move your body.
  • Core muscles work together to support and move the body safely. They provide essential support that allows you to move your body to do everyday tasks and participate in physical activity.

Protect Your Inner Organs

Healthy core muscles help to protect vital systems in our body. Your core is not only where your organs and central nervous system do their work, it’s also where your body’s largest (and most important) veins and arteries are based. Keeping strong core muscles helps to ensure everything stays protected as you move through your day. Movements can be restricted when our core muscles are not strengthened and worse, eventually pain moves in.

Increase Your Posture Awareness

Increasing core strength will naturally change the way you carry yourself. Good posture is chest out, shoulders back and holding your head back so that your ears are over your shoulders. We all should be doing this naturally yet we are not. Becoming more aware of our posture is important.

Try these two mental exercises no matter where you are.

  • Pretend you’re a balloon rising up with air. Most of the muscles that hold our body up are vertical. As you breathe in think of yourself as being a balloon and you’ll feel your posture improve.
  • Think of a string. Align your head over your shoulders and lifting it up, as though a string is pulling it from the top; this allows your shoulders to drop and open while pulling in the abdominals. This will work whether you are sitting, standing or walking.

How Can You Build Core Strength?

Working on your core muscles is different from strength-training. Yoga, pilates and stability balls are great for working your core muscles because many moves you can do with these target those muscle groups.

There are countless other activities to strengthen your core, from swimming to kick boxing. You can also try some specific exercises including the classic sit-up. Starting a routine that’s right for you includes getting professional advice. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill and Newmarket can assist you in strengthening your core muscles.

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 over half a decade. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help you come up with a personalized plan to ensure the long term health of your bones, skeletal system and over all well-being. 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.

Tmj Syndrome

Temporal Mandibular Joint Syndrome is a condition in which the temporal mandibular joint is not functioning as it should. This is a condition that affects thousands of Canadians and this is pain that affects most everything you do with your mouth.

The temporal bone (the bone that forms the sides of the skull) meets the mandible (jaw bone) and where they meet is at the temporal mandibular joint. This joint is used more frequently than most other joints in the body. The temporal mandibular joint works every time we chew, bite down on something, swallow, or talk. When TMJ syndrome strikes, it has a huge impact on a lot of what you do. Other muscles such as those in the upper back, neck and shoulder can have an effect on this joint's functioning.

On each side of the head there is a temporal mandibular joint and they are located right in front of the ear.

Those with TMJ often cannot determine the specific cause but there are some possible causes such as:

  • Stress
  • Teeth grinding
  • A bad bite
  • Bad posture
  • Chewing too much gum or nail biting

Symptoms Of TMJ Syndrome

Perhaps one of the most common symptom experienced by those with TMJ syndrome are headaches or facial pain that increases when they attempt to speak or eat. Sometimes pain is felt behind the eyes.

The ears may have a sense of feeling clogged or they can have tinnitus (ringing sound). Also, the patient may experience dizziness or the sensation that the facial muscles are tired.

When opening or closing the mouth there can be a clicking sound or popping sound and when chewing or biting, there is discomfort or difficulty to move the jaw. There can also be tenderness in the jaw area or pain.

TMJ Can Cause Physical Damage

TMJ syndrome can cause damage to the jaw, the teeth, and it can alter the alignment of the bones as well or cause damage to the nearby muscles. In fact, misaligned teeth, a change in chewing patterns(braces, dentures or other dental work), damage to the teeth or jaw can trigger TMJ.

Treatment For TMJ Syndrome

Getting a diagnosis sooner than later is important in order to minimize or eliminate the chances for long- term damage. Temporal mandibular joint syndrome can often be treated with gentle therapies. Learning how to gently stretch, relax or massage the muscles around your jaw correctly may be an option that works. Qualified medical professionals help patients with this and provide massage therapy at a Chiro-Med Rehab Centre. Under proper medical care, patients can learn other techniques such as using heat and cold methods in order to help alleviate or eliminate the symptoms. In addition, learning various ways to reduce stress levels can be explored, as well as exercising several times every week.

Pinpointing a cause can help you better maximize treatment. If a specific cause can be determined then chances are TMJ syndrome can be eliminated. For example, if grinding the teeth at night as you sleep is the cause, mouth guards can help alleviate the pressure. (Although this is not recommended as a permanent solution.) Over-the-counter mouth guards are available, but having one that fits your mouth properly is important and most dentists' custom-make mouth guards.

If you think you may have TMJ syndrome, you may want to try this out in addition to seeking the services of a health professional. Set your cell phone to alert you a few times throughout the day. When you get that alert (or alarm) immediately take note of how you are holding your neck, shoulders and teeth. Are your shoulders up at your ears? Are your teeth clenched? Are you hunched over? If you answer yes to any of these, try to make a subconscious choice to be more aware of how your body is positioned.

Richmond Hill Massage Therapy For Body And Soul

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.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be quite painful and is one of the most common causes of heel pain. This foot ailment is inflammation of the thick tissue (plantar fascia) located on the bottom of the foot. This tissue is what connects the heel bone to the toes and it creates the arch of the foot; this can be quite painful and make walking more difficult.

Those who have plantar fasciitis feel dull or sharp pain and stiffness at the bottom of the heel. Some people report feeling an ache or burn at the bottom of the foot. This pain is felt worse in the morning when taking the first steps of the day. It is also noticeable after standing or sitting for a period of time. Plantar fasciitis pain may develop slowly over time, or suddenly after intense activity.

Causes Of Plantar Fasciitis

When the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overused or overstretched this is when plantar fasciitis can occur. Another possible cause of pain and dysfunction is now thought to be degeneration of the collagen fibres close to the attachment to the heel bone.

Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:

  • High arches or flat feet
  • Poor arch support
  • Sudden weight gain or obesity
  • Tight Achilles tendon
  • Long distance running or running on uneven surfaces

Plantar fasciitis is the most common orthopedic complaints related to the foot and seems to affect mostly men aged between 40 and 70.

If you think you have plantar fasciitis you should see a health professional as soon as possible. An examination will be conducted to determine the tenderness of the foot, arches will be checked, and the tightness or stiffness of the arch will be examined.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has helped countless people who have suffered with plantar fasciitis. The severity of this condition will determine the treatment. The good news is that almost always, nonsurgical treatment improves the pain. Patients who have severe plantar fasciitis may require several months of therapy  in order to feel totally better, and in some rare cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pain.

Immediate steps to relieve pain are to apply ice to the painful area, minimum twice a day for about 15-20 minutes.  Wearing shoes with good support are a must and resting as much as possible as well.

You may need to do some heel stretching exercises to help relieve the stiffness. In addition, using night splints to help stretch out the plantar fascia may aid in the healing process.

Orthotics from Chiro-Med Rehab Centre are medical inserts that fit comfortably into normal footwear, and are custom designed to support and improve your ability to walk pain-free. Orthotics should be worn at all times, at work, at home, and during recreational activities. Orthotic insoles work like prescription eye-glasses, they work when they are being worn, providing support to all the areas that need support.
During the first couple of weeks while wearing custom orthotics, there may be a slight discomfort felt in the arches, feet, and legs. This is normal, and is actually an indication that your custom orthotics are doing their job.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get back to activities you once enjoyed – pain free! Call 905-918-0419 for more information.

Before You Run: 5 Helpful Hints To Prevent Injury

The human foot is truly remarkable as it contains a combination of 112 ligaments, 33 joints, 26 bones and a vast network of nerves, tendons and blood vessels that work hard when you run. Before considering to go out jogging or to take up running, it is very important to make sure that your feet are in good working order because the balance, support, and propulsion of a running body depends on the foot.

Before starting to run, there are some things you can do before you hit the pavement to ensure your running experience will be an enjoyable one. Before getting into the helpful hints, what needs to be said is to hydrate before you run or jog – this is very important.

First of all, are your running shoes appropriate? Your choice of footwear needs to be determined based on your foot structure, your weight, how your feet function and where you run. If you are flat footed when you run, or if you run on the balls of the feet, then an orthotic device should be considered. The shoes should provide shock absorption.

Next, proper foot hygiene needs to be practiced. Be sure your feet are kept dry with appropriate socks and powdered. This is especially important if you have blisters. Getting into the habit of powdering will help to keep athletes foot at bay.

Thirdly, start off slow. Jog for two minutes, then walk fast for five minutes then jog for two minutes, and repeat. If your muscles are feeling stiff, then walk. As the days go by, increase the jogging time 30 to 60 seconds at a time until you are jogging for five, fast walking for five. Keep increasing this and diminish the walking time until you are comfortable with just jogging or running. Be sure to make adjustments for weather conditions; the hotter and more humid it gets, lessen your running time.

The fourth hint is a big one – stretch! Before starting any exercise program and this includes running or jogging, proper stretching is important. When the muscles are properly warmed up then the strain on tendons, joints and muscles is significantly reduced. Walking for 5-10 minutes before stretching is what many joggers and runners do first, and then they stretch for 5-10 minutes. It’s important to remember that stretching is not pulling or bouncing.

Three recommended stretches are:

  • Wall push-ups. Stretch one leg at a time by standing a metre away from the wall. Rear leg needs to be straight with the front leg bent as the hands touch the wall. Heels on the ground at all times. Hold the stretch for twenty seconds, and then bend the back leg and hold for twenty seconds, switch legs and repeat three times.
  • Stretch the hamstring. Straighten the right leg, place it, with the knee locked, on the curb or other item that is the same height. Squeeze your quadrieps muscle (front thigh) and point your ankle and toes up towards yourself. Hold for twenty seconds. Switch sides and repeat three times.
  • Stretching the lower back. Lie down on a firm surface. Bring both knees to your chest and hold for twenty seconds. Repeat this five times.

Last but not least, there is one more thing to consider before taking up jogging or running. Your feet are very important, so visiting a health professional before starting an exercise program may save you a lot of aggravation down the road. A health professional will examine your feet and identify any potential problems. This preventative measure can save your feet from unwarranted injuries.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has health professionals on staff who are fully qualified to assess your feet and provide custom orthotics if needed. Conveniently located in Richmond Hill, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a walk-in clinic at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major MacKenzie Drive. Call 905-918-0419 for more information.

TENS – Is This Therapy for You?

TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), is the most widely used type of electrotherapy and when done correctly, the success rate is impressive. This therapy uses electrodes on small pads that adhere to the affected area and are attached via wires to a battery-operated device. Controlled current is sent through the electrodes which stimulate the sensory nerves creating a tingling sensation that reduces pain. A qualified practitioner ensures that the patient is comfortable while receiving the proper frequency and patterns of stimulation to effectively and safely reduce or eliminate pain.

In recent years, a number of TENS products have been marketed, some as wearable devices. Although some of these products may work, one must be cautioned that if done incorrectly or under the wrong conditions not only will it not work, it can produce detrimental effects.

TENS machines tend mainly to be used to help reduce musculoskeletal pain. People must not use a TENS machine unless under the care of a qualified professional if:

  • The cause of the pain is not known or is not diagnosed.
  • Pregnant (unless specifically medically advised - or in labour).
  • The individual has a pacemaker.
  • The individual has epilepsy or certain types of heart disease.
  • The individual has skin conditions that can be negatively affected by TENS.

It is important to seek the advice from a qualified health professional.

Brief History of Electrical Pain Management

Electrical stimuli were used in pain management strategies for centuries. Hippocrates and Ancient Egyptians knew that electric eels were potentially useful for producing an electrical shock to control pain yet it wasn’t fully recognized until 46AD.  Scribonius Largus recorded in 46AD that the electric ray torpedo fish was used to treat gout and headaches.

In the 18th and 19th centuries these natural producers of electricity were replaced by man-made electrical devices. This happened in phases; the first was the application of static electrical currents called Franklinism. Christian Kratzenstein was the first to apply it medically, followed shortly by Benjamin Franklin. The 19th century was coined the golden age of electrotherapy. It was used for countless dental, neurological, psychiatric and gynecological problems. However, at beginning of the 20th century electrotherapy fell into the background. Mainstream medicine dismissed this therapy as lacking a scientific basis and claimed it was used by quacks. The development of analgesic drugs helped to decrease interest in this therapy. In the second half of the 20th century electrotherapy underwent a revival and has greatly advanced.

Fast forward to 2016, from the News Centre at the University of Texas Arlington, researchers are encouraged with a possible new application of electrical stimulation. Yuan Bo Peng, UTA psychology professor said in a news release:

“This is the first study to use a wireless electrical device to alleviate pain by directly stimulating the ventral tegmental area of the brain. While still under laboratory testing, this new method does provide hope that in the future we will be able to alleviate chronic pain without the side effects of medications.”

Conditions Treated with TENS

There are many conditions that respond well to TENS. Although not an inclusive list, there are some conditions in which there are proven results in pain reduction or elimination. These include:

  • Neck pain and stiffness.
  • Low back pain.
  • Diabetic nerve pain.
  • Fibromyalgia pain.
  • Arthritis
  • Sports Injuries.

Is TENS Therapy for You?

TENS is typically applied at the site of the pain, but is sometimes more effective when used in other areas as well. A health professional is your best ally in determining if this is a preferred method in effectively treating your pain.

Sometimes results are instant, but in some cases there may be repeated treatments required. Through the release of endorphins and the control of nerves, TENS sends relief directly to the site of pain. Some people experience permanent pain relief after repeated sessions with TENS therapy.

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has proved their commitment in providing quality health care services to the Greater Toronto Area for over a decade. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help you manage and possibly treat underlying conditions that are causing you pain. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

References:

Weiner, R. S. (2001). Pain Management: a Practical Guide for Clinicians. Hoboken: Taylor & Francis Ltd. (Page 15.)

University of Texas Arlington

U.S. National Library of Medicine

Vitamin B-12 Deficiency and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin is one of the eight B vitamins we need. Our body needs B12 as it is necessary in the production of red blood cells as well as the proper functioning of nerve tissues and healthy brain functioning. It also helps in the regulation and synthesizing of DNA.

B12, and all B vitamins are water soluble and they travel through our bloodstream. Vitamin B12 is not stored in the body and any excess amounts are excreted through urine. Structurally this vitamin is the most complicated and the largest.

B12 Sources

Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in animal products such as fish, meat, eggs, and dairy products. Typically this vitamin is not found in fruits and vegetables making B12 intake a challenge for vegans and some vegetarians. It is critical that vegans take supplements as well as women while pregnant and during breastfeeding.

Foods that are good sources of vitamin B12 include:

  • Beef, pork, ham, poultry, and lamb.
  • Fish, especially haddock, sardines and tuna.
  • Milk, cheese, and yogurt.
  • Some nutritional yeast products.
  • Eggs.

Some foods are fortified with B12 such as some types of soya milk and breakfast cereals.

According to Health Canada recommended daily intake of B12 should be 2.4 micrograms per day for men and women ages 19 to 70. Pregnant women should take 2.6 mcg per day and lactating women 2.8 mcg daily. Some health professionals claim that Health Canada provides a low estimate on what daily vitamin intake should be so if you are concerned that these daily values are not enough for you then be sure to visit a qualified health professional.

For those individuals over the age of 50 it is even more important to not only get the minimum daily recommended allowance but to have your B12 levels checked regularly. As we increase in age our bodies become less able to absorb this vitamin not only from the foods we eat but from supplements. It is critical in order to maintain good health to know that your body is actually absorbing B12.

B12 Facts

  • This is the only vitamin that requires a specific substance for absorption.
  • 30 % of vitamin B12 is lost during cooking.
  • Vitamin B12 is destroyed by light.
  • This vitamin was discovered in 1948.

B12 Deficiency & Symptoms

B12 deficiency is more common in those over 50 years of age. Malabsorption of this vitamin is the main cause of deficiency in those who are older. This is caused by atrophy of the gastric mucosa and the gradual loss of gastric acid.

Low levels of this vitamin can cause a reversible blood disorder called pernicious anemia. This causes fatigue, difficulty thinking and concentrating. Other symptoms of B12 deficiency include:

  • Feeling light-headed, weak, and lethargic.
  • Bleeding gums.
  • Experiencing a sore, red tongue.
  • Pale skin.
  • Constipation or diarrhea.
  • Weight loss.
  • Feel sick to the stomach.

If the level of vitamin B12 has been very low for a long period of time it can damage nerve cells. If this has occurred some symptoms may include:

  • Poor sense of balance.
  • Numbness or tingling in fingers and toes.
  • Depression
  • Loss of mental abilities.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is not something to be ignored because there is a serious risk of permanent nerve and brain damage. Those who do not get enough vitamin B12 have a higher risk of developing psychosis, mania, and dementia.

Infants who lack vitamin B12 may have unusual movements which may include:

  • Face tremors.
  • Reflex problems.
  • Feeding difficulties.
  • Eventual growth problems if left untreated.

B12 Deficiency Treatments

Increasing the foods that have vitamin B12 is the first course of action; however, if your deficiency isn't caused by a lack of vitamin B12 in your diet, chances are you’ll need injections. Vitamin B12 is available in an injectable form to be given subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intravenously.

People with Leber's disease or those who are allergic or sensitive to cobalt or cobalamin must consult their health care provider before taking vitamin B12 supplements.

For a person who is suffering with nerve damage there may be help through chiropractic care in conjunction with either diet and/or B12 supplements. Every person is unique and must be seen by a chiropractor to see if there is chiropractic treatment available for them.

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. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help assess your needs. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Additional Information:

For a comprehensive list of foods that contain vitamin B12 please go to Dieticians of Canada.

http://www.dietitians.ca/Your-Health/Nutrition-A-Z/Vitamins/Food-Sources-of-Vitamin-B12.aspx

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