If you’re like most people you take vitamin C supplements. This prominent vitamin is promoted for its antioxidant power and role in the support of maintaining a healthy immune system. Did you know that nutrition research into vitamin C has found that it has an important role in forming bone and in bone protection?

Vitamin C is active throughout our body. It strengthens the capillaries and cell walls, and it is crucial for the formation of collagen (a protein found in connective tissue and helps to keep the skin looking healthy). Vitamin C also helps to prevent bruising, promotes healing, and keeps ligaments, tendons and gums strong. It also aids in producing hemoglobin in red blood cells and vitamin C helps our body absorb iron from the foods we eat. This incredible vitamin has also been proven to minimize cold symptoms, has treated asthma, prevents cataracts and offers protection from degenerative diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

This vitamin is not made or stored in the body therefore it must be ingested daily. If you feel you’re not consuming enough of this essential vitamin through diet then taking supplements is very important. There are many factors that go into how much vitamin C needs to be ingested by an individual such as age, weight, gender and lifestyle choices.  There are disputes as to how much should be taken daily so it’s best to speak with a qualified health professional as to what is best for you. (If you have kidney stones, kidney disease or hemochromatosis then you must speak to your health professional before taking supplements.)

So where does this vitamin fit into chiropractic care? This vitamin has a protective role for bone health. I read in a journal a while back that 1,000mg of vitamin C along with 400 IU of alpha-tocopherol could be used in preventing or assisting in the treatment of bone loss and osteoporosis.

There was a study conducted a few years back (Vitamin C supplement use and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women, DJ Morton et al.) in which the findings were encouraging. Women who used vitamin C supplements for an average of 12 ½ years with calcium appeared to have a beneficial effect on levels of bone mineral density.

Vitamin C deficiency is a serious problem in the elderly and is an under-diagnosed contributor to degenerative disc disease. Once this problem starts, accompanying tissue degeneration occurs as well if left untreated.  This is where vitamin C treatments become necessary for collagen synthesis. Getting on a regimented vitamin supplement program and eating lots of fresh vegetables and fruits earlier in life can help avoid this disease.

Far too often the mineral aspect of bone health is what we read about yet the organic matrix is an essential aspect of bone quality. Collagen makes up 90 percent of the organic matrix of bone. Our bones are made up of a lot more than just calcium. (In fact, calcium alone cannot keep bones healthy; it needs magnesium and D3 as well in order for the calcium to be absorbed into the bones.)

Smoking is a huge factor in breaking down bone mineral density. Unhealthy lifestyle choices aren’t just factors in the breakdown of health, they also work against bone health.

Micronutrients such as phosphorus, fluoride, magnesium, sodium, and vitamin C have a critical role in maintaining bone health (as well as calcium and vitamin D3). Taking supplements without the advice of a qualified health professional means you may be causing some harm to your body without even realizing it. The professional staff at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre can help you.

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. They have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 or 905-235.2620 for more information.

Crepitus, sometimes referred to as crepitation, is the grinding, creaking, cracking, grating, crunching, or popping sounds that often takes place when moving a joint. The sound may be loud or soft but this is not indicative of the degree of pathology. Most people have experienced crepitation as this can happen at any age, however it becomes more common as people get older. For something that's obviously quite common, what exactly is happening to make these sounds?

Gas can build up in areas of the body in which it surrounds a joint and this allows tiny bubbles to form in the synovial fluid. The knee is the most common area in which this occurs. Most of us have experienced a knee making a popping, cracking or snapping sound and when this happens some of those tiny bubbles burst and ligaments make those sounds. In fact, the cracking is the sound of gas being released from the joint, an action called cavitation.
Crepitus can also occur as a result of damaged cartilage and bone caused by arthritis. Injuries can also be the antecedent to crepitus developing.

Crepitus in the Knee

As mentioned above, crepitus in the knee is quite common and for the most part, painless; it is very much a part of who we are. However, when pain accompanies this popping sound then it may indicate there could be a problem.
Knee crepitus is a common symptom of osteoarthritis. It may also be a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. However, if you have ever experienced a knee injury this may be the antecedent of painful crepitus.

Cracking sounds may also occur when cartilage rubs on the joint surface when the knee joint is in motion. This usually occurs when the cartilage is thin and worn out.

Knee injuries such as meniscus tears are somewhat common among those who run, jog or play sports that require a lot of knee use. A meniscus tear can cause crepitus.

If an individual has scar tissue or a tendon passing over a protuberant bony fragment this many also cause the knee to make cracking sounds. In these and all scenarios listed above, crepitus may be more frequently experienced while climbing staircase, or after sitting for a prolonged time with the knees crossed.

Sometimes a person may hear a grating sound accompanied with pain when their knee is moved. This is not crepitus, in more cases than not this is when an individual has a condition known as patellofemoral pain syndrome; this is also referred to as “runner's knee”.

Crepitus and Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is quite common in Canada and this type of arthritis is often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis. Although the knees are commonly affected, this type of arthritis also affects weight-bearing joints such as the ankles and hips.

Mechanical stress slowly breaks down the cartilage that cushions the knee which in turn causes inflammation and pain. When crepitus is accompanied by pain, it’s usually caused by osteoarthritis.

Knowing that osteoarthritis and other inflammation conditions are so common it is really important that we all focus on prevention. If you are an individual who has crepitus, even though it does not cause pain, then trying to avert this normal condition transforming into a problem later in life is important.

Some people are not sure if they have arthritis in the knee. If crepitus is causing you a lot of pain this is one possible symptom. If there is pain while walking, occasional swelling of the knee, or stiffness then this is another warning.

The most common initial location of arthritis in the knee is on the inside of the knee. Seeking chiropractic assistance can help you with a proper diagnosis.

If crepitus is not causing you pain then prevention is important. To help prevent this (or lessen it) here are some helpful tips:

• Exercise,
• Lose excess weight,
• Eat healthy avoiding as much sugar as possible,
• Massage,
• Safe topical pain remedies,
• Chiropractic care.

Treatment of Painful Knee Crepitus

As mentioned earlier, cracking and popping sounds with no associated pain should not cause you to worry. Be sure to engage in conditioning exercises to help strengthen the muscles and joint. If there is associated pain with these sounds then be sure to seek help from a qualified health professional.

For more information about crepitus and how chiropractic care can help if it is causing you pain 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.

We are all aware that snow shoveling is hard work, and the more snow there is and the "wetter" it is, shoveling becomes extremely challenging. There's no shortage of emergency room statistics that show us, shoveling can cause cardiac arrest if a person is not careful. What emergency rooms do not show are the enormous numbers of injuries that occur. Shoveling snow should be treated in the same manner as if you were to engage in any athletic or exercise program in order to protect yourself.

In January 2011, the results of a seventeen-year study were published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine and the results were astounding. This study reveals that the most common injury when removing snow (either with a shovel or by using a snow blower) is to the soft tissue; the majority of all injuries are soft tissue injuries such as damage to muscles, ligaments and tendons. The lower back was the most frequently injured, followed by the arms and the hands. Twenty percent of injuries were directly related to slipping or falling as a result of being outside to snow hoveling and shockingly, 15 percent of injuries were the result of being struck by a snow shovel.

Snow shoveling safety needs to be taken seriously in order to avoid becoming a statistic. Here are some tips to help you minimize, if not eliminate any chance of sustaining an injury:

• First and most important, if you have already had a heart attack or have a history of heart disease, have high blood pressure or have high cholesterol levels, do not attempt shoveling unless your doctor approves.
• Drink lots of water before starting. Have some water available because shoveling is physical exercise and avoiding dehydration is important. (When you feel thirsty, your body has already started to dehydrate.)
• Wear appropriate footwear.
• Shovel at least one hour after eating and if you are a smoker, avoid doing so before or during shoveling.
• Warm up first by stretching your shoulders, arms, hands, legs and back.
• Start slow and it is advisable to work at a slow pace – don't be in a hurry because this is when an injury is most likely to occur.
• Shovel early in a snowfall, and often if need be – better that than waiting for all 30 cm of wet heavy snow to fall!
• Take breaks.

Snow Shoveling Techniques:

• Pushing the snow rather than lifting it is best.
• When shoveling deep snow, shovel it in small amounts.
• If you know the ground is icy or slippery, toss down some kitty litter, sand, salt or anything else that is safe to use for the ground that will provide you with traction.
• Lift properly by – keeping feet at hip width – hold the shovel close to your body – space your hands apart to increase your leveraging – tighten up your abdominal muscles while lifting – avoid twisting when lifting – walk to dump the snow; do not toss – and perhaps the most important – bend at your knees not your back!

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre: Reminders

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

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

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

Snow Shoveling Benefits

The good news about safely shoveling snow is that fifteen minutes of shoveling counts as a moderate physical workout. Although recommendations vary among agencies, between (minimum) 30-60 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly is essential to good health. If winter brings us lots of snow, then you get lots of fresh air and exercise – without paying for a gym membership.

More good news! Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has worked with countless patients who have sustained injuries due to snow shoveling. Our Rehab Centre has fully qualified professionals that will work with you to minimize the pain and to help get you back to your usual self. Hopefully you won't get injured this winter, but in the unfortunate event you do, call us right away.

Those who suffer with sciatica describe this symptom as a mild to intense pain that is experienced mostly in one leg making standing or sitting nearly impossible.  Sciatica can be debilitating and there is no need to suffer when there are options to help.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica could be a symptom of a pinched nerve affecting one or more of the lower spinal nerves. Conditions that trigger sciatica include:

• Piriformis syndrome develops when the piriformis muscle becomes tight or spasms. This puts pressure on and irritates the sciatic nerve.
• Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal putting pressure on the nerves.
• Spondylolisthesis is the slippage of a vertebra that becomes out of line with the vertebra above it creating a narrow opening through which the nerve exists.
• Herniated or slipped discs that put pressure on a nerve root are the most common cause of sciatica.
• Trauma to the lumbar area can cause sciatica. This can happen as a result of car accidents, sports injuries, or any other accident causing trauma to the lumbar.

Chiropractic Care

Sciatica can be treated with chiropractic care which is non-invasive and drug-free. The type of therapy will depend on the specific cause of sciatica. Treatment can include one or a combination of therapies that include spinal adjustments, spinal decompression, TENS, ice therapy, and ultrasound. What is also recommended is that while under the care of your chiropractor doing specific exercises designed to help with sciatica. It is essential that these are done ONLY under the advisement and care of your chiropractor.

Moves & Exercises to Ease Sciatica:

Low Lunges

Move your right leg back into a lunge, keeping the front left knee directly above the ankle. Lower right knee toward the ground as far as you are able, pause 15-30 seconds, and then slowly lift so right leg is straight then repeat three times. Switch legs so that the left knee is being lowered and straightened three times.

Frog

Get down on your hands and knees with palms on the floor and your knees on a mat. Slowly widen your knees until you feel the inner thighs stretching comfortably; be sure to keep the inside of each calf and foot in contact with the floor.  Keep your ankles in line with your knees then lower your body down to your forearms creating the frog position. Try to hold this stretch for 30 seconds then slowly release. Repeat two times.

Cross Legged Stretch

Lie down face-up on a flat surface and cross your left leg over your right leg. Raise both legs off the floor and reach for the outer ankles. Hug your legs toward your belly. Spread your toes making sure that your feet are flexed. Breathe slowly holding your legs for about 20 seconds. Slowly switch legs to the other side and repeat.

Hip Twist Stretch

Lie down on your back straightening your left leg out and bend your right knee until your right foot is on the floor next to your left knee. Using your left hand gently press the right knee down and towards floor on the left until you feel the buttocks and lower back slightly stretching. Your right hip and buttocks will come off the floor as you twist. Hold this stretch for 30 to 60 seconds then repeat on other side.

Back Extensions

On a flat surface lie on your stomach and prop yourself up on your elbows so that your spine is lengthened. Keep your neck long and be sure to keep the shoulders back. Arch your back up by pushing down on your hands. There should be a stretch felt in your stomach muscles as you arch. Hold for 10 – 15 seconds then return to the start position. Repeat three times.

No one has to suffer with sciatica while under the care of a chiropractor. There are solutions and exercises and Chiro-Med Rehab Centre can help you.

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 you manage sciatica. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

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

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

What Is Conjugated Linoleic Acid?

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

CLA And Weight Loss

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

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

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

Other CLA Benefits

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Spring has arrived and with it, the heightened desire to get into the garden to start planting. The warmth of the sun, the freshness in the air and seeing new growth coming up every day inspires most people to get into their gardens.

This article is going to provide you with some useful spring gardening tips that come from two angles. First of all, let’s discuss some ideas on what to plant that can benefit your health.

Edible Gardening

You may have heard the term edible gardening, more and more people are turning to their gardens as a source of fresh herbs and food. If you have the space to grow vegetables, then it makes sense. Even if you live in an apartment or have limited space, container gardening is very popular and can keep you eating fresh healthy greens all summer long.

Don’t know what to plant? Here are some quick tips to help you decide.

• Grow what you like to eat. If you like beets, then growing these from seed is easy (remember, beet leaves are also very nutritious to eat).
• Be sure to grow herbs or vegetables that are well-suited for this area.
• We live near Ontario’s salad bowl, the Holland Marsh. Fresh produce (especially carrots and onions) is available from the farmers there at very affordable prices; so choose other produce to grow.
• Get a soil pH kit from a nursery and do a little homework in order to be successful. Vegetables thrive in a variety of soils and trying to grow alkaline veggies such as endive, cucumber or leeks in acidic soil is going to set you up for failure. (This chart is a reliable source to learn what is acidic and what is alkaline.)
• Also be sure to do some homework in regards to sunlight. Where you plan on gardening, is it full or part sun? Some veggies do not thrive in full sun – and some prefer cooler temperatures and do best in early spring or late summer (i.e., peas, some lettuces).
• If you choose to grow in containers, remember to keep in mind that you will have to replenish nutrients often into the soil because container gardening removes nutrients at a much more rapid rate than in the ground.
• Google companion gardening; for example, marigolds help tomatoes stay pest-free while growing.

By planting an edible garden, your body will reap the goodness of all the vitamins, minerals, enzymes and nutrients that you can’t get from store-bought produce.

So, now you have an idea about what to garden, now to start. If you have any health ailments please be sure to speak to your health professional. Getting into the garden may seem like a simple task, but if you suffer from an injury or have arthritis, then you may be facing some challenges. For example:

• Hauling in fertile soil to start container gardening, or manure to help richen the earth with nutrients can be strenuous work. Know your limitations and when to seek help from a friend or family member. Lifting heavy weights or shoveling earth into a wheelbarrow must be done carefully. Always keep the knees slightly bent and always use your legs to lift; never use your back to lift.
• Always try to find ways to make gardening much easier on your body; after all, gardening is physical work. If on your knees a lot, be sure to cushion your knees if you suffer from sore knee joints.
• When container gardening, arrange your containers where you want them to be, then fill them up with earth.
• Always be sure to play it safe; never leave your rakes or other garden implements on the ground. If you forget about them, you could end up tripping over them and hurting yourself.
• If it is hot out, know your limitations. Drink lots of water and take breaks.
• If you have arthritis or any other health issue, be sure to use garden tools that will help you such as long-handled tools. These will allow you to stand so you can avoid stooping over.
• Let your stronger joints do the work whenever possible. Even when something may not be that heavy to lift, instead of using your fingers, use the flat palm of your hand or your forearms to lift. Keep the lifted items close to your body as you carry them. Stand or sit with good posture while you work; and change positions often.

There you have it! Comprehensive spring gardening tips you’ll find valuable. If you have arthritis or painful joints from an injury, and are not sure about gardening, give Chiro-Med Rehab Centre a call. 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.

Vertigo is a condition in which you feel dizzy or off-balance, as if you or your surroundings are swaying, spinning or moving. This can be a temporary or long term condition that affects men and women of all ages but is most common among the elderly.

Causes of Vertigo

The vestibular system (a tiny grid of fluid-filled sacs and tubes) is an organ in our ears. There are two identical vestibular systems located in each ear. As we move around the liquid in the tubes also moves and our nerve cells read the levels. This information is transmitted to the brain which calculates which way is down and what should be horizontal.

Balance problems originate in the vestibular system so those who are afflicted with frequent vertigo are said to have vestibular disorder.  Balance problems may be associated with the loss of hearing or ringing in the ears. Changes in our brain may trigger vertigo as well.

Major causes of vertigo include:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: This can be triggered by moving your head into a certain position or a simple movement of the head. BPPV is the most common form of vertigo.
• Calcium deposits in the ear canal can become dislodged causing vertigo.
• Head trauma: Those who have experienced a massive hit to the head can experience damage to the inner ear which can trigger vertigo.
• Labyrinthitis: Bacterial infections in the middle ear that are left untreated can also cause vertigo and possibly even hearing loss.

Some antibiotics have been known to damage the vestibular system due to high doses or with prolonged use. Acetylsalicylic acid, caffeine, alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers can cause temporary dizziness but generally do not cause permanent damage.

Vertigo Symptoms

Vertigo is the main symptom of a balance disorder. If you close your eyes and feel as though you are falling or you are spinning then this is vertigo. Severe vertigo can impede your ability to walk and make you feel nauseous.

The vestibular system is linked to the brain's movement centre and to the eyes, and when there are problems with this system then vision can be affected. In addition, there may be aching muscles in the neck and back.

Other symptoms people experience during episodes of vertigo include memory problems or struggling to read. Often people find vertigo tiring, so much so they have to rest. Symptoms can last from a few moments to hours.

The symptoms of bacterial labyrinthitis are typically an ear infection followed by a significant loss of hearing and extreme vertigo which can last for weeks.

Dealing with or Avoiding Vertigo Triggers

There is plenty a person can do to help themselves if they are prone to experiencing vertigo. Avoiding alcohol, cigarettes, fried foods and excessive salt can trigger vertigo.

Vitamin B6 and ginkgo biloba may help in reducing vertigo. If an individual has a blood sugar imbalance then chromium may help ease the effects of vertigo. Also, getting lots of exercise, meditation, and sufficient sleep all go a long way to treating vertigo.

Also, a chiropractor can develop an appropriate program specifically tailored for you to help treat vertigo.

Vertigo and Chiropractic Care

If you suffer with vertigo and are searching for help then consider chiropractic care. Even if you’ve not experienced any neck or head trauma then the symptoms you’re experiencing may be the result of an upper cervical joint dysfunction.

This form of treatment is not for everyone who has vertigo; some individuals may not respond well to this but a chiropractor is the best person to determine this.  There are some exercises that just may work but again, a chiropractor can determine this.

Treating BPPV

Treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo dizziness is simple, but must be done in a precise manner, determined by which canal is filled with debris. Careful testing is done first to determine how much debris and where it lays. Once treatment is completed there may be some level of discomfort and it is generally recommended that patients do not drive themselves home.

If you are experiencing persistent vertigo it’s best not to take chances. Call Chiro-Med Rehab Centre.

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 stretches and exercises will benefit the health of your head, spine and extremities. 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.