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.

Lower back pain can be a nagging nuisance from time-to-time in our life. This type of pain is often due to muscle imbalances and many of us suffer from this type of pain frequently because we have desk jobs and spend more time throughout the day sitting than moving around.

Lumbago (or low back pain) is a very common musculoskeletal disorder than many studies show affects 80 percent of the population at some point in their lives. This is a leading contributor to lost hours at work, and it interferes with recreation activities as well as routine daily activities. The good news is that low back pain often goes away within a few days.

The Benefits of Stretching:

• Increased range of motion and flexibility:
  Flexible muscles can improve your movement abilities. Lifting items, bending over to tie your shoes or running to catch the bus becomes easier when muscles are stretched.
• Improved circulation:
  Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles. Blood flowing to the muscles brings nourishment and eliminates waste byproducts in the muscle tissue. Improved circulation increases recovery rate from low back pain.
• Better posture:
  Frequent stretching helps to keep muscles from getting tight therefore aiding to maintain proper posture. Good posture minimizes low back pain.
• Stress relief:
  Stretching relaxes tense muscles.
• Enhanced coordination:
  Maintaining full range-of-motion through the joints keeps a person in better balance. Coordination and balance helps to keep an individual mobile.

Lower Back Stretch Seated

This is a great stretch you can do either at work or any time of day. Be sure you are on a chair with four solid legs. Sit upright with both feet flat on the floor and your legs apart. Stretch your arms straight out in front of you holding your hands. Slowly stretch forward as you lower your upper body until it rests in between your legs and your hands are as low as you can get them (ideally flat on the floor). You’re your position there for minimum five seconds then slowly return to the start position. Repeat this as many times as you are able throughout the day.

Lower Back Stretch Laying Down

Lay on your back on the floor with your legs out flat. Place your arms out to the side and be sure both shoulders are flat on the floor. Slowly move your right leg up and over the left leg with the right knee bent. Be sure to keep the left leg flat on the floor and slowly keep moving the right leg until the knee touches the floor at the chest level. The right shoulder will slightly come off the floor. Hold it there for a count of five and slowly release and return to the start position. Repeat the same movements with the opposite leg. Stretch out each side five times.

Lower Back Stretch On Floor

Lay on your back on the floor. Slowly raise both legs curling them into the chest. At the same time slightly raise your head so that your chin touches your knees. Hold this position for five seconds and slowly release to start position. Repeat this stretch minimum five times.

Lower Back Stretch

Begin with lying on your back flat on the floor. Bend both knees and hold the outside edges of your feet with your hands. Be sure your feet are flexed and that your knees are bent with a 90 degree angle so that they are at chest level. Keep your arms on the outside of your legs. Very gently use the upper body strength to equally press both knees to the floor (or as close to the floor as you are able). Try not to tense your chest or shoulders and keep as relaxed as possible. Hold position for five seconds then slowly release. Repeat five to ten times.

If you are able to do some stretches every day this will help to alleviate pain. Remember though, if the pain persists and stretching appears not to be helping then Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can help you. Chiro-Med has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get back activities you once enjoyed – pain free! Call 905-918-0419 for more information or to book your appointment!

Migraines are not just a different type of headache; they are a severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation that is generally felt on one side of the head. More often than not nausea, vomiting, as well as extreme sensitivity to light and sound accompanies this pain. These attacks can last for hours or for days and they can be so severe a person is not able to function. In fact, a migraine headache ranks in the top 20 of the world's most disabling conditions affecting people of all ages. Migraines are a neurological disease that can be managed using massage therapy.

Different Types of Migraines

Common Migraine: This is the most prevalent type of migraine; technically this is referred to as a migraine without aura. Almost 11 percent of general population worldwide suffer from this. According to some doctors, this type of migraine will worsen with overuse of over-the-counter headache pills. A common migraine can last for anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. If the headache continues for over 72 hours then it is known as status migrainosus, which requires immediate medical attention.

Classic Migraine: Another term for this migraine is a migraine with aura. People suffering from aura experience dazzling flash of light, hazy spots or zigzag lines in their vision few minutes prior to the onset of the migraine. It is estimated that 15 to 20 percent of those who regularly get migraines have aura symptoms.

Menstrual Migraine: Migraine is a condition that is twice as common in women as men. There is a strong connection between the menstrual cycle and the onset of a migraine. Fluctuating hormones are the antecedent.

Chronic Migraine: This is a severe form of migraine. Defined, this headache occurs for more than 15 days in a one month period for three consecutive months. Over the course of time the headache continues throughout the day with occasional migraine symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Chronic migraine is one of the most disabling forms of migraine.

Abdominal Migraine: With this type of migraine, the person experiences light to severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting during the attack. This is commonly seen in children who have a history of migraine in their family.

There are other types of migraines but this gives you an idea that not all migraines are the same.

Massage Can Help

The science community has done very little research about massage therapy and migraines; however, there have been many independent studies conducted that conclude there is relief for most massage therapy patients. It is encouraging that there is a positive connection between massage and migraine relief. For example, a 2014 published paper in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine shows positive effects of Thai traditional massage. This massage uses stretching, compression, and pulling and rocking motion. This has proven to provide relief in many migraine sufferers.

Depending on the severity and type of migraine the patient is suffering with, a massage therapist may use a variety of different techniques such as:

• Craniosacral therapy: This is a gentle massage focused on the skull and scalp.‍
• Reflexology: Uses pressure and massage on the soles of the feet.‍
• Relaxation massage: This is for stress relief.‍
• Deep Tissue Massage: This massage works well on a tense neck and shoulders providing great results in relieving migraine symptoms.

Massage therapy is not a cure for migraine, but countless migraine patients state it is an indispensable complementary therapy. Some research has even shown that those who receive massage therapy experience a reduction in migraines. This has proven to bring relief to many who seek a reduction or elimination in pharmacological treatment.

Many benefits of massage therapy include an increase in serotonin levels which can help decrease senility to pain, reduce stress levels, and it can help improve sleep. At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre you can be sure you are in the hands of not only a qualified massage therapist, but a therapist who puts your best interests first.

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 a decade. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help you seek relief from migraine pain. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

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Resource:

Chatchawan U, Eungpinichpong W, Sooktho S, Tiamkao S, Yamauchi J. (2014). "Effects of Thai traditional massage on pressure pain threshold and headache intensity in patients with chronic tension-type and migraine headaches." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

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.

Glucosamine sulfate and Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM) are perhaps the most widely used natural
supplements when seeking relief from joint pain. Together, these supplements have been extensively studied for almost thirty years and the results indicate that both these supplements offer a natural solution.

What Are Glucosamine Sulfate And Msm?

Glucosamine sulfate is a naturally occurring chemical found in the fluid that is around our joints.
Glucosamine is also found in other places in nature, for example, the glucosamine sulfate that is often put into dietary supplements is often harvested from shellfish. Although this is a natural substance, it can also be made safely in a lab.

MSM is a white powder that is a naturally-occurring nutrient found in many foods such as cabbage,
broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables. During food preparation, we lose most of it because it is
water soluble therefore it evaporates with the steam or gets tossed out with the water. Over processing our food supply has drastically reduced the amount of MSM that we consume. As a dietary supplement, MSM is synthesized.

What Separate Functions Does Glucosamine Sulfate And Msm Perform?

Glucosamine sulfate is commonly used for arthritis and more specifically, osteoarthritis. Over the years, people have tried glucosamine sulfate for a variety of other health ailments such as glaucoma and even for weight loss. Glucosamine sulfate has not been adequately studied for these uses and as of yet, there is no proof that glucosamine sulfate is beneficial for these conditions. Glucosamine also has the potential to rebuild cartilage lost in a joint due to injury or osteoarthritis.

MSM provides sulfur, which is a vital building block of joints, cartilage, skin, hair and nails, and methyl groups, which support the many vital biochemical processes in the body and this includes our energy production.

Glucosamine Sulfate And Msm Benefits

Together, glucosamine sulfate and MSM have been proven to provide relief from painful joints and

connective tissue. These ingredients have synergy so that together, they maintain the structural
integrity of connective tissue and joints while supporting the healing process.

Glucosamine sulfate protects connective tissue and cartilage to optimize joint function while MSM's
powerful therapeutic agent lessens inflammation, reduces muscle spasms, inhibits pain impulses, softens scar tissue and increases blood supply.

The addition of MSM to glucosamine sulfate is a proven and effective combination in supporting joint health as a whole.

Osteoarthritis

Cartilage absorbs impact and allows for smooth, pain-free motion when joint tissues are healthy.
Osteoarthritis has become a common condition where these soft joint tissues become inflamed, harden or they simply wear away – the results are pain and the loss of mobility. This debilitating disease can affect anyone at any time, although it tends to become more common as we age.

Many of the pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs used to suppress arthritis symptoms can cause serious side effects that many people do not like. Those wishing to reduce or avoid these potentially dangerous drugs are increasingly turning to natural alternatives that are proven to be safe that lessen symptoms as well as promote long-term healing.

Remember, it's important not to self-diagnose. Let the healthcare professionals at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill provide you with all the care you need to ensure safe and proper healing.

When used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, glucosamine sulfate and MSM are perhaps the most effective natural supplements available today that provides relief from joint pain.

Cosmetic acupuncture is not a replacement for cosmetic surgery; however it is a natural alternative that many individuals feel safer undergoing. In addition to being a safer treatment, it is not as invasive and it costs less. Unlike traditional face lift surgery, acupuncture is painless and has no negative side effects. In addition, there are no risks of disfigurement, no trauma, and no need for recovery. Traditional Chinese acupuncture combined with specialized facial acupuncture can help you look healthy and feel rejuvenated.

Unlike other treatments such as botox injections, cosmetic acupuncture addresses the appearance of the entire face, not just a concentrated area. Cosmetic acupuncture is not a band aid solution, it aims to increase the health of the skin, while firming and brightening the complexion.

Preventative and Corrective Cosmetic Acupuncture

It is believed that by having occasional acupuncture treatments starting in the late twenties, both men and women can help to slow the signs of aging by boosting collagen and improving the health of the skin. For those in their forties or older, cosmetic acupuncture treatments can help to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in brighter and more rejuvenated-looking skin. A fully qualified acupuncturist will help the patient by discussing lifestyle choices and diet because both have an effect on how well our skin ages. An acidic diet, (i.e. coffee), smoking, and alcohol, if used regularly or in excess, will not help anyone in their quest for a healthy, younger look. These choices can contribute to early signs of aging. Skin quality typically reflects the general inner-health status and how well (or not) we age.

In addition to using acupuncture as a possible preventative to aging, there are many corrective possibilities with cosmetic acupuncture. These include:

• Minimize or eliminate fine lines and improve the appearance of deep wrinkles.
• Reduce a double chin.
• Reduce sagging jowls.
• Help to reduce inflammation on face with rosacea and cystic acne.
• Helps to diminish age spots.
• Helps to lift puffy or droopy eyelids.
• Improve muscle tone and dermal contraction.
• Improve hormonal balance to reduce acne.
• Increase blood, energy and lymph circulation.

Does Cosmetic Acupuncture Give Results?

This procedure has been used in China for thousands of years. As far back as the Sung Dynasty (960AD–1270AD), cosmetic acupuncture has been performed on many of the elites in China. For centuries, the Chinese have known that beauty radiates from the inside out which means diet is essential. If the internal body is nourished and the energy and blood are flowing smoothly, cosmetic acupuncture can provide amazing results.

A 1996 study published in The International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture, reported that out of 300 people treated with cosmetic acupuncture, 90 percent saw some improvements with one treatment.

Is Cosmetic Acupuncture for Everyone?

Cosmetic acupuncture has some contraindications. Those with pituitary disorders, heart disorders, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, individuals with pacemakers, bleeding or bruising disorders, and for those who suffer from migraine headaches need to have their doctor approve cosmetic acupuncture. This type of procedure should not be done during pregnancy, a cold or flu, during an allergic attack or during an acute herpes outbreak. Bottom line, a qualified health professional must be consulted first before commencing cosmetic acupuncture.

Remember, our face reflects our vitality and the underlying state of our health. Chinese medicine has been used to help diagnose and correct a number of health imbalances, including the use of acupuncture. Skin tone, discolorations, blemishes, and the location of fine lines provide Chinese medical practitioners valuable health information. It is very important to keep in mind that when seeking out cosmetic acupuncture to correct skin issues, underlying health issues and diet have a huge play in results and maintaining those results. This same is for those seeking out cosmetic surgery; results will not last long if diet and health changes are not made.

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 discuss with you the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture. 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.

Scoliosis refers to a medical condition where a person's spine curves from side- to-side. Back x-rays of people with scoliosis demonstrate "C" shapes or "S" shapes, as opposed to being straight.

Anyone can get scoliosis, but geneticists have identified DNA markers associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Causes Of Scoliosis

Scoliosis is classified according to its cause, and there are three main classifications:

• Congenital scoliosis, caused by vertebral anomalies at birth
• Idiopathic scoliosis (cause unknown) that occurs with infants, juveniles, adolescents or adults (adolescents is the most common occurrence)
• Neuromuscular scoliosis, which develops as a result of another condition such as cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, spina bifida or some sort of physical trauma

Curving often accelerates during growth spurts in adolescents, and cases with adolescent woman are most common. Scoliosis is less common with infants and young children, and affects boys and girls equally.

Scoliosis symptoms are as follows:

• Unequal hip lengths or leg lengths, resulting in tilting of the hips
• Uneven musculature development along one side of the spine
• One shoulder is higher than the other
• Lower back pains
• General fatigue
• Spinal curvature from side-to-side

Extended standing or sitting for people with scoliosis may result in spinal fatigue. Pain can also occur, depending on the amount of tissue irritation and spinal bone deterioration.

Treatment Of Scoliosis

There are a wide variety of treatments for scoliosis. The required type of treatment is determined by the amount of spinal curvature along with a person's age (which affects how supple the spine is).

The following treatment options are ordered from least to most severe:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Chiropractic or osteopathic therapy
• Casting (EDF)
• Bracing
• Surgery

Our Richmond Hill Chiropractic, Massage Therapy and Physiotherapy center can help treat scoliosis via:

• Spinal joint mobilization that improves flexibility and blood flow
• Spinal joint manipulation that increases flexibility, breaks down scar tissue, improves blood flow, stretches muscles and speeds healing
• Physiotherapy using the Schroth method, which is a noninvasive treatment based upon the idea that scoliosis results from muscular asymmetries
• Massage therapy that decreases chronic neck pain, shoulder pain and lower back pain
• Orthotics that are customized to your pertinent body measurements

The majority of scoliosis cases can be corrected and even extreme scoliosis can be treated so that the spine becomes straighter. Regardless of the severity, it is not necessary to live with pain resulting from scoliosis.

As treatment progresses your shoulders and hips will become more even, breathing will become easier, there will be less pain and greater ease of movement. Most of the improvement will be permanent, although there may be a small amount of regression between treatment sessions.

Scoliosis is a debilitating condition that needs to be detected and treated as early as possible. The longer it goes unnoticed, the more severe the treatment may have to be.

Fortunately scoliosis is easy to detect, the trick is to get checked out sooner rather than later.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has the necessary knowledge and expertise to start you on the road to recovery today. As professionals we can recommend the type of treatment needed and effectively implement that treatment, getting you back up and running in as little time as possible!

Myositis ossificans is an abnormal bone that forms within the muscle tissue. There are two types of myositis ossificans: myositis ossificans circumscripta is the result of a muscle injury and myositis ossificans progressiva is an inherited condition that causes the formation of bone in many tissues.

This is a condition that athletes often experience after sustaining a blunt injury resulting in deep tissue bleeding. A neglected bad muscle strain or contusion can result in myositis ossificans. When an impact causes damage to the sheath surrounding a muscle or a bone, then a bone growth develops (calcification) that can be quite painful. Bone growth begins two to four weeks after injury and within three to six months is a mature bone.

What Causes Myositis Ossificans?

Sometimes when an injury occurs an individual may self-assess and choose not to follow injury protocol which starts with ‘R.I.C.E.’ immediately after injury (rest, ice, compression and elevate). However, if intensive physiotherapy or massage occurs too soon after injury then this too can result in myositis ossificans. In addition, if an athlete returns to training too soon after injury, this may also result in this condition.

Myositis Ossificans Symptoms

Symptoms of myositis ossificans often varies from person-to-person. Common symptoms include swelling, pain, discomfort, swelling, and a lump within the muscle tissue.

Myositis ossificans progressiva symptoms include digits (fingers and toes) that have changed shape, painful lumps around the joints, a spine with an abnormal curve, as well as a decrease in the range of motion in the shoulders and hips.

Diagnosis And Treatment Options

An examination from a physiotherapist or chiropractor can indicate if myositis ossificans is present. Usually at about three weeks post injury an X-ray can confirm diagnosis. Other diagnosis methods include an MRI scan or an ultrasound.

Once myositis ossificans is established, there are very few options that can be explored to accelerate the restorative process. Treatment will generally focus on rest from activities that can cause agitation and a physiotherapist or chiropractor can provide a gentle pain-free range of movement exercises.

Prevention

In the event of an injury, a person must diligently follow R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevate) in the initial phase of injury (preferably immediately but within the first 24 hours). By following the RICE regime, this greatly reduces the likelihood of the development of myositis ossificans. Far too many people think they’ll be okay and do not follow R.I.C.E.; it is better to be safe than sorry.

What is also very important is to rest from activities, regular icing, and if possible, use a compression bandage. Taking preventative measures at the time of and shortly after an injury will save a lot of time down the road should myositis ossificans develop.

If you suspect you may have myositis ossificans then help is a phone call away. For more information about treatment options to seek relief from myositis ossificans, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can help. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a walk-in clinic conveniently located at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major MacKenzie Drive in the heart of Richmond Hill. Call 905-918-0419 for more information or to book a consultation.