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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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

T.D.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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

R.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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!"

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"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.

Slider Left
Slider Right

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.

Osteoarthritis Of The Knee - Benefits Of Laser Therapy

Osteoarthritis of the knee is one of the leading causes of disability among the elderly, therefore it is important to have this diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Going into the senior years with osteoarthritis of the knee can be averted.

Causes Of Osteoarthritis Of The Knee

Osteoarthritis can be caused if trauma has been experienced, injury or an infection. The articular cartilage is a smooth, fibrous connective tissue that acts as a protective cushion between bones. When this cartilage deteriorates then arthritis sets in. Joint space narrows between the bones creating a loss of the articular cartilage. This is an early indicator that osteoarthritis of the knee is imminent and it is detectable on x-rays.

Risk Factors In Getting Osteoarthritis Of The Knee

There are some risk factors associated with Osteoarthritis of the knee. The following is a brief look at some of the risks:

  • Weight: Weight creates pressure on the joints.
  • Age and Gender: Those who are aging and in particular women over 50.
  • Trauma: Previous sports injuries.
  • High Impact Sports: Tennis players, runners and elite soccer players are at increased risk.
  • Diet: Lack of proper nutrition.
  • Heredity: Some evidence indicates that genetic mutations may be a factor.

Osteoarthritis of the knee is diagnosed by the patient reporting the symptoms, physical signs and an x-ray. There are many therapies available to those who suffer including physical therapy, exercise and bracing.

Theralase Laser Therapy

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill uses another form of therapy to help some patients who suffer with osteoarthritis of the knees, Theralase  Laser Therapy.

Theralase Laser Therapy is a super-pulsed, cold laser technology that’s used for a wide spectrum of health ailments including osteoarthritis. This therapy heals neural muscular skeletal conditions through inflammation reduction, increased tissue regeneration and pain elimination.

The Theralase Super-Pulsed Laser System is effective because it can penetrate almost four inches into tissue. This in turn promotes cellular regeneration at the source of injury. Laser energy accelerates the body's natural healing mechanisms energy so reparation to damaged cells is possible. Depending on the severity of the osteoarthritis, returning to an active lifestyle pain-free within a few weeks is possible.

Some other Theralase Laser benefits include:

  • Anti-inflammatory – Laser light reduces swelling or inflammation of the joints.
  • Increased Metabolic Activity – Higher outputs of specific enzymes, increased oxygen for healthy cells.
  • Rapid Cell Growth – Laser light accelerates cellular growth and reproduction.

Patients with osteoarthritis of the knee will find that the length of treatment depends of the severity. Treatments required can range depending on the person’s natural healing rate and the severity of the osteoarthritis. Each individual treatment can be completed in as little as 2 minutes or as long as 20 minutes.

Theralase Laser is state-of-the-art technology and osteoarthritis of the knee is only one health ailment that this therapy has a success rate with. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre helps their patients using this revolutionary laser treatment who have carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, tennis elbow, and much more.

This is a proven method to help you that is perfectly safe and effective. 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.

Importance of Spinal Check-ups

As a society we are conditioned, and with good reason, to get an annual physical check-up as a preventative measure with helping to stay healthy. We are also are conditioned to see a dentist on a regular basis to keep our teeth and gums healthy. Many people also go to their optometrists on a regular basis to ensure good ocular health. All of the above are very important in order to detect problems before they start. What seems to take a back seat to prevention is the importance of regular spinal check-ups.

Our Spine

The spine is a critical component of your body. Without it, you could not keep yourself upright or even stand up. The spine provides your body with structure and support allowing you to move about freely and to bend with flexibility. Within the spine is your spinal cord, a column of nerves that connects your brain with the rest of your body, allowing you to control every movement. Without a spinal cord, you could not move any part of your body, and your organs could not function. This is a compelling reason as to why keeping your spine healthy is vital.

Benefits of Regular Chiropractic Care

The overall goal of chiropractic care is to improve musculoskeletal health, which impacts your quality of life. Perhaps you may already know you have some health issues but are not sure what. When a chiropractor improves your body’s biomechanical dysfunctions, there can be a plethora of unexpected benefits. Even if there are no issues, a check-up can detect if a problem may be on the horizon.

Improved immune function . . .

A healthy immune system is really important for many reasons. The nervous system regulates cell functions, but even the slightest misalignment can interrupt the process, and this has a ripple effect on the immune system’s ability to fight off viruses. Chiropractic care can restore function to the nerves to ensure your cells are functioning well.

More energy . . .

When the body is sore, joints and muscles tense up often resulting in inflammation. This tension and pain interferes with your well-being. Chiropractic care can help reduce joint and muscles discomfort providing a vitality boost.

Improved digestion . . .

As mentioned earlier, the nerves running through the spine control all functions, including digestion. If the vertebrae are misaligned, your nerves may signal for more acid which leads to acid reflux, gas, and heartburn. Chiropractic care can help to ease stomach issues by an examination of the thoracic spine.

Easier breathing . . .

The lungs rely on proper nerve function. When there is a misalignment in your cervical and thoracic spinal regions, it can result in lung problems. Chiropractic correction of these issues can help correct issues such as inflammation and help you breathe easier.

Better balance and coordination . . .

As we get older something as simple as maintaining balance can become a problem. The more durable and healthy the spine is, the easier it is to maintain good balance, possibly preventing an injury due to instability like a slip and fall. While activities like tai-chi and regular exercise can help keep the core and leg muscles strong, chiropractic care can also help improve coordination and balance.

Healthier pregnancies . . .

Countless women have praised chiropractic care in helping them have healthier pregnancies and easier deliveries. Your body goes through many changes during pregnancy which impact the nervous system. The weight gain places pressure on the spine which can create discomfort. Regular chiropractic care can ensure both a healthier mother and baby.

Improved range of motion . . .

Regular chiropractic care provides an improved range of motion and this is really important given today's sedentary lifestyles. It is really important to get regular exercise but sometimes this is not enough. Chiropractic care can help you move easier and get through daily activities with less effort.

In addition, regular chiropractic spinal check-ups can:

  • Improve joint mobility, function and health.
  • Decrease degeneration of the joint and connective tissues (arthritis).
  • Strengthen the immune system.
  • Improve individual organ system function (heart, lung, sinuses, digestive, etc).
  • Increase energy, vitality and improves sleep.
  • Decrease the adverse effects of stress.
  • Improve athletic performance.
  • Improve cognitive ability.

There is not a doubt that getting regular spinal check-ups is just as important to your overall well-being as getting an annual physical check-up and regular dental care. Make an appointment soon to get a spinal check-up and you'll soon join the millions who have already discovered the benefits of regular chiropractic care.

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behalf Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a proven record of commitment providing quality health care services in the Greater Toronto Area. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can provide the services you need. Chiro-Med has clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Graston Technique® Treatment For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome can experience anything from tingling, to burning, or numbness in the hand and fingers, especially in the area of the thumb and first two fingers.  This is caused by the nerves getting pinched.  In some cases, strength and mobility in the affected hand can be significantly reduced as well.

If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can become a chronic condition that makes it difficult for those who need to use the affected hand; they will experience significant pain levels.  Also, if left untreated, medical conditions can occur such as bone fractures and arthritis of the wrist.

Some U.S. studies state that this ‘tennis elbow of the wrist’ is the cause for the highest number of work days lost.

Graston Technique® Treatment

There are many different treatment options available to those who have carpal tunnel syndrome however, there are a growing number of individuals who seek a natural therapy. Graston Technique® treatment has rapidly become the treatment of choice for health care practitioners and for patients.

Graston Technique® treatment is a modification of the more traditional hands-on approach. This treatment uses specially-designed instruments that are hand held by the health care therapist. The therapist uses a specific instrument to a targeted area to introduce a controlled amount of microtrauma so that injured tissue (or in other injuries scar tissue) can experience a small amount of inflammation and this augments the healing process. Not only is this beneficial for the patient, the use of these instruments means that the therapist’s hands does not experience the level stress that he or she would without using Graston Technique® instruments.

Graston Technique® Benefits Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The Graston Technique® has proven to help in the healing of patients with many cumulative trauma disorders including carpal tunnel syndrome. Some health professionals offer therapies such as physiotherapy and splinting, and in some cases this is effective. When a health professional uses The Graston Technique® in combination with suggested exercises for the injured hand then recovery time is generally accelerated. When this technique is used the fully-trained therapist is able to penetrate the area deeper than a hand therefore providing better results in less time. Many carpal tunnel syndrome patients agree that this method of treatment works well and in many cases has saved carpal tunnel syndrome sufferers from having surgery.

If you suffer with carpal tunnel syndrome do not rule out this type of rehabilitation therapy. This may be just what you need to avert surgery. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can work with you to determine what your best options are. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get on the road to recovery. Visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 for more information on the Graston Technique®.

Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone and is in use when walking, running, and jumping. Athletes and runners in particular tend to be those who suffer the most with Achilles tendonitis and it is the bane of many runners. Although this tendon can withstand great stresses it is also prone to tendinitis, a condition associated with degeneration and overuse.

Historically, the Achilles tendon is known as an area prone to disabling injury. Named after Achilles, who according to myth, was protected from wounds. As a baby, his mother dipped him in a special pond by holding onto his heel, which was not immersed; and later in life Achilles died by an arrow wound in his heel. Interestingly, injuries to this part of the body have obviously been around for thousands of years; however, it was only first reported in medical literature 400 years ago.

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body stretching from the heel to the calf muscles. From the exterior it feels like a springy band of tissue at the back of the ankle, above the heel. This tendon joins three muscles: the soleus and the two heads of the gastrocnemius. The gastrocnemius muscle crosses over three joints: the knee, the ankle, and the subtalar joint. The soleus is the powerful muscle in the back part of the lower leg; it reaches from just below the knee to the Achilles tendon.

There is not a rich blood supply to this tendon; there are a small number of blood vessels throughout its length which suggests the poor vascularity can be an issue when trying to repair the tissue following trauma.

Achilles Tendonitis

There are two types of Achilles tendonitis: insertional and noninsertional. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower portion of your tendon where it attaches to the heel bone. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis involves fibers in the mid-portion of the tendon and usually affects active, younger people.

There are several factors that can contribute to Achilles tendonitis. Here are a few factors:

  • Excessive hill running,
  • Improper placement of the foot while exercising or while engaged in a sports activity,
  • Sudden increases in training, or exertion in activity involving the tendon,
  • Not properly stretching the tendon before, during and after physical activity, and
  • Tightness of the posterior muscles in the calf that was not stretched out prior to physical activity.

Shoe design may prolong Achilles tendonitis because of excessive heel cushioning. Some people self-treat and purchase gel or air-filled heels and these are not good for a sore Achilles tendon. If you are wearing a shoe designed to provide heel shock absorption what frequently happens is that after heel contact, the heel continues to sink lower while the shoe is absorbing the shock. This further stretches the Achilles tendon.

Achilles Tendonitis Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain and stiffness along the tendon in the morning,
  • Pain along the tendon or back of the heel that worsens with activity,
  • Severe pain the day after exercising, and
  • Swelling.

If you have experienced a sudden "pop" in the back of your calf or heel, you may have torn your Achilles tendon. If this has occurred it is important to help right away.

Treatment

The good news is that there are many nonsurgical treatment options that will work for most patients. Depending on the severity of the injury it may take a few months for symptoms to completely subside. Also, depending on how soon you seek help after getting Achilles tendonitis will determine the length of treatment required.

Some basic tips to follow for alleviating pain at home include:

Rest. Greatly decreasing or even stopping the activities that make the pain worse is a must. If you regularly partake in high-impact exercises then switch over to low-impact activities, this will put less stress on the Achilles tendon. Biking and swimming are low-impact options to help you stay active.

Ice. Placing ice on the most painful area of the tendon is helpful and can be repeated as needed throughout the day. This can be done up to 20 minutes each session so long as the skin does not get numb.

Exercise. There are some incredible exercises that can help to strengthen the calf muscles and reduce stress on the Achilles tendon. A qualified health professional can show you what specific exercises are best for your particular situation.

At home methods may provide some relief but there is not a doubt that seeking qualified professional help is best in order to heal properly.

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

Helmets for Children and Adults

Cycling is a popular fun activity not to mention a form of transportation for many individuals. A bicycle is considered a vehicle under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act (HTA); this means a cyclist has the same rights and responsibilities to obey all traffic laws. HTA 104 states:

Every cyclist under the age of eighteen must wear an approved bicycle helmet. Parents or guardians shall not knowingly permit cyclists under sixteen to ride without a helmet. Set fine: $60.00

Although there are no helmet laws for adults there is not a doubt that wearing a helmet can ultimately save a person from incredible harm and possibly death.

A report by the Ontario coroner’s office (The Cycling Death Review) found that almost 75 percent of the 129 cyclists killed in Ontario between 2006 and 2012 were not wearing helmets. There is not a doubt that helmets save lives.

Many have argued that helmets are invasive and violate personal rights. Some have even said that when they grew up there were no helmets and “they did just fine”. Bottom line, this is a different world we live in now; more cars, more distracted drivers, and even many cyclists are distracted because they’re wearing ear buds.  The chances of an accident happening now versus many years ago have increased exponentially.  In fact, those who ride a bike without a helmet triple their chances of a fatality due to a head injury than those who wear a helmet. (The Toronto Star: Cyclists without helmets triple their chance of death by head injury. Oct. 15, 2012.)

There is not a doubt that helmets save lives, not just for children but for adults as well. They also help to prevent head injuries.

Choosing the Right Helmet

Cycling helmets come in three basic styles; multi-use, mountain and road.  A multi-use helmet is a great choice for not just cyclists but also inline skaters. (Skateboarders need a special type of helmet.)

Road helmets are preferred by those hard core cyclists because they have generous ventilation, have an aerodynamic design and they do not weigh much.

Mountain bike helmets are well-noted for the visors, ventilate well at low speeds, and there is enhanced rear-head coverage with a firm, secure fit for the rough terrain.

Hockey helmets are much different because they are designed to take several impacts. (They must be replaced if damaged and this includes loose fitting or missing liner pieces. If the helmet has undergone a severe blow then it should be replaced.)

Getting the Right Size

There is no “one size fits all” helmet that can be considered safe. A good fit is crucial. Even if a helmet is a single size it must be adjustable.

The best way to determine what size helmet is best for you is to measure your head. Wrap a flexible tape measure around the largest part of your head (this is about an inch above the eyebrows). Look for a helmet that matches your measurement.

Wear the Helmet Properly

Once you have a helmet that is the right size it will inevitably need some adjustments. When you make the adjustments the helmet should feel snug, not tight. It needs to sit level on your head (not tilted) and the front edge should not be more than one inch (width of two fingers) above your eyebrows.

When to Replace a Helmet

If there has been a crash in which the cyclist has hit their head then the helmet needs to be replaced. It is also recommended that helmets be replaced every five years. This is because the plastics on the helmet dry out and become brittle with age. After a crash in which the head was hit, the foam inside the helmet usually becomes compressed hence the reason for replacing it.

If you or someone you know has suffered a head injury and has not found relief then consider chiropractic care. Chiropractic care has made amazing advances over the years and there are many possible ways to treat symptoms from a head injury through our concussion management program.

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. 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.

Maintain Great Posture as You Age

Never underestimate the power of having great posture. Far too many people walk and sit in positions that will cause them problems later in life. Sitting slumped over, the head drooping forward, and having the back hunched are all ways to cause some serious back issues as you age. The great news is that it’s pretty much safe to say it’s never too late to change; make no mistake though, if bad posture is all you have been accustomed to then changing to good posture will take a conscious effort over a period of time. Of course, if you are younger, maintaining great posture as you age makes life a whole lot easier.

Good posture helps you to breathe deeper. When we’re slouched over we tend to become shallow breathers and this is not healthy. The deeper we breathe, the better we feel. Taking a really deep breath every half hour or so helps to infuse oxygen into your body that helps you feel more alert.

What is a Good Sitting Posture?

When sitting at a desk the best position to have your legs in is making sure your knees are level with your hips. If necessary a footrest can be used to help. Adjust your chair so that you can use the keyboard with your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor. This goes a long way to preventing repetitive strain injuries. Elbows are best positioned by the side of your body so that the arm forms a 90 degree angle at the elbow joint.
Feet are always best positioned flat on the floor. Crossing legs is bad for circulation and it can also cause posture-related problems.

The screen should be directly in front of you and the monitor is best positioned an arm’s length away with the middle of the monitor roughly at eye level. The mouse should be as close to you as possible.

If you are sitting in a social situation, at home, at the dinner table, it’s always important to try and remember not to cross the legs – although that is very hard to do for most of us. If you lean on a table be sure to keep your shoulders back and the back straight.

On the sofa watching a movie is when all tend to be in relax mode and good posture is the last thing on our mind. Often sofas are too deep or too low which encourages a slouch position. If you’re there for a long movie you may want to consider getting high-density foam or a good cushion to raise your elevation that will promote good posture.

If you’re reading and your head has to slouch down use pillows to prop up the level of the book.

Using cushions to help support your body not only can help with good posture, they can be really enhance your comfort level too!

What is a Good Standing Posture?

When standing the shoulders should be back, the chest slightly out, and the ears should be positioned over the shoulders (they should be this way as well when sitting). Try to stand with equal weight on both legs rather than on one leg.

If you’re in a kitchen sometimes slouching sets in because for those who are taller, kitchen countertops are low and slouching happens automatically – sitting on a bar stool can help.

Keeping Fit

Having a good level of fitness throughout your entire life, regardless of age is important in maintaining good posture. If you rarely walk or do any physical moving then you become at risk for injuries that can happen much easier such as sprains, strains, and much more. If your ankles, knees, or hips are compromised then this can affect your posture.

Entering the mature years with good posture along with a healthy diet, and regular exercise helps to keep your bones strong which are critical in our senior years because we all lose some bone density. The more you lose the more susceptible to injuries you become. Our genetics and lifestyle dictates just how much we lose so it only makes sense to maintain your posture as you age.

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.

Preventing and Treating Injuries with Braces

Our joints are busy working when we move about and perform our daily activities. Those who work in environments in which they must use their joints on a constant basis (i.e. construction) or those who engage in sports activities know how easy it can be to sustain an injury, and re-injure.

Preventing Injuries

Preventing injuries is really important. Far too many people think they will heal from their injury and life carries on. Yes and no. The immediate healing may appear to be fine however, what usually happens later in life is a cause for concern.

Aside from age, weight and heredity, injury to the knees or ankles is one of the biggest factors in developing osteoarthritis (OA) later in life. This is the most common type of arthritis, which involves the inflammation and breakdown of cartilage in the joints and the numbers of those who are afflicted with OA are skyrocketing.

Muscle strength across the joints (and the spine) stabilizes and is very important in helping to prevent injuries. Elliptical machines, stationary bikes, rowing machines, walking, and swimming are examples of low-impact cardio activities that will provide muscle strengthening.

If your job or sport activity requires a lot of movement then be sure to do some warm up activities before starting and always remember to do some cool down stretches at the end.

Environmental factors such as bumpy, hard and uneven surfaces often cause injuries, particularly to the ankle. Avoiding these environments or being careful in these areas is important.

Why Braces?

Braces help support and promote proper function and movement, either in preventing or furthering damage to a susceptible area of your body. Sprains, muscle strain, or tendon tears should always be taken seriously and the affected area should have brace support to prevent further injury even in basic daily activities. In some cases even nerve damage can be aided with the help of braces.

The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has studied the effects of wearing braces as a form of prevention. They studied high school basketball players who wore stabilizing lace-up ankle braces and found that 68 percent were less likely to suffer an ankle injury than the athletes who did not wear braces.

Another study, also by University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, found similar results. Both studies involved randomized, controlled trials of large groups of high school basketball and football players. In both studies, there was a significant protective benefit in wearing the ankle brace, whether or not the athlete had experienced a previous sprain.

Interestingly, researchers found no negative effects of preventative bracing.

Braces for Joints at High Risk of Injury

Back

A back brace is designed to protect the lower back and reduce stress on the joints and muscles of the lower back during strenuous activities. This type of brace restricts end-of-range spinal movements and provides stability and support. Back braces are not usually used as a preventative; they are generally beneficial for people who are suffering from lower back pain or injury, especially those who have chronic back pain or the potential to re-aggravate a prior injury. A back brace can also used to keep the area warm which helps to reduce the risk of sprains and strains.

Thumb

Many people find that a thumb brace is great for arthritis as it can support, stabilize, and relieve some of the pain. Thumbs perform an incredible amount of activity on any given day and an arthritic thumb or an injured thumb affects the ability to execute daily tasks. Thumb braces are designed to give support by keeping them in the correct position and taking pressure off of damaged areas. These braces are ideal for mild to moderate injuries involving the wrist and thumb including dequarvains, synovitis, or arthritis.

Wrist

A wrist brace can help to immobilize the area or simply provide flexible support for those suffering from an injury, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. The level of flexibility of a wrist brace is geared toward the condition in which the person is suffering.

Elbow

When the elbow is pushed beyond the normal limit, injury can occur. Elbow braces can be used to treat common injuries, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, epicondylitis and arthritis joint pain. If lifting heavy weight on the job or working out, having an elbow brace can help in reducing the chance of injury.

Knees

Knees endure more strain than most other joints because they support the body's weight. They are used in supporting frequent changes of direction as well as in sudden impacts. Knee braces are commonly used as supports for those who are in sports and in strenuous jobs that require a lot of stress on the knees. For those who experience pain, they are used to help reduce pain, provide stability and prevent re-injury. A brace can be additional support for mild sprains and strains of the muscles and ligament within and surrounding the knee.

Ankle

An ankle brace can offer mild support to weak or injured ankles and is ideal for daily use after a mild ankle sprain or strain. These braces stabilize, support and limit range-of-motion of the ankle joint. For those who are prone to ankle injuries, braces are used to immobilize injured ankles or provide joint protection to injuries. Some people use a brace to help relieve general heel pain, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs and to treat Achilles tendon issues. There are also many braces that offer protective support by promoting lateral and medial stability.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a variety of braces that can help you. Chiro-Med carries a large selection of braces including the innovative Custom DonJoy knee brace and the DonJoy ankle brace.

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 in determining what brace is best for you. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

References:

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health

Acupuncture; How Can It Help You?

Acupuncture is recognized as an effective form of alternative treatment for numerous health problems, but many people wonder if they will benefit from acupuncture treatments if they are not sick or in pain.  The fact is that acupuncture can help anyone, even people who do not feel sick.  Richmond Hill acupuncture is performed by highly trained acupuncture specialists who insert tiny needles into the skin at specific points throughout the body.  Acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural healing ability and improves the function of all bodily systems.

Richmond Hill acupuncture specialists are trained in this ancient art, and they can administer acupuncture treatments to combat a multitude of health problems.  Acupuncture is commonly used for various types of pain, including arthritis, headaches and various neurological disorders.  It is also often used for the control of cravings and addictions, and has successfully helped countless people lose weight or quit smoking.  Acupuncture is also an effective treatment for many other ailments including asthma, digestive disorders, nerve damage and reproductive problems.

According to Chinese medicine, the body has numerous energy channels called meridians that run in patterns throughout the body.  Ideally, the energy is supposed to flow unchecked through the channels, but they often become blocked, resulting in a dysfunction in that particular area of the body.  Inserting needles into precise points releases energy blockages and allows the energy to flow freely once again.  Richmond Hill acupuncture treatments can correct imbalances and restore proper function in all of the body’s systems.

According to modern science, inserting needles into acupuncture points triggers the release of various chemicals in the spinal cord, muscles and brain, influencing the body’s biochemical balance and regulating the function of bodily systems.  No matter which way it is explained, overwhelming evidence proves that acupuncture works, and it can help anyone.

Slider Left
Slider Right

Blog

Welcome to our platform for sharing thoughts, ideas, and insights with our clients. We strive to offer a unique perspective on the topics and subject matter most important to the field.

Scar Tissue Pain: How the Graston Technique Works
Scar Tissue Pain: How the Graston Technique Works

Scar Tissue Pain: How the Graston Technique Works The Graston Technique is a type of manual therapy that utilizes specialized instruments to gently scrape or massage the skin.

What Causes Achilles Tendinopathy
What Causes Achilles Tendinopathy

Understanding the causes of Achilles tendinopathy is crucial if you want to avoid getting it, and also very helpful for treating it.

5 Reasons to Give Hot Stone Massage Therapy a Try
5 Reasons to Give Hot Stone Massage Therapy a Try

Finding relief from not only pain but also day-to-day ailments and stress is crucial in our modern-day society. Finding a massage therapist that you trust can make all the difference — Call Chiro-Med to schedule a FREE Consultation today.

What Can a Registered Dietitian Help With?
What Can a Registered Dietitian Help With?

When you hear the term registered dietitian, most people imagine weight loss assistance. However, not only do such professionals help maintain an optimal weight goal, the work of a dietitian actually encompasses a much wider scope than just that.

What to Do If You Experience Back Spasms
What to Do If You Experience Back Spasms

Understand back spasms and their causes, and how to treat them with immediate measures and when to seek a chiropractor.

What are the Chiropractic Treatments for Whiplash
What are the Chiropractic Treatments for Whiplash

The goal of chiropractic treatment is to improve your ability to perform routine activities without placing undue stress on the body. Each case of whiplash is unique, which means there is a considerable amount of variation from one treatment plan to the next.

Treating Lower Back Pain With Compression Hosiery
Treating Lower Back Pain With Compression Hosiery

Compression hosiery is a non-invasive and easy way to treat lower back pain by preventing swelling, decreasing pain, and increasing comfort level.

4 Issues Spinal Decompression Therapy Can Help
4 Issues Spinal Decompression Therapy Can Help

Exercises for Spinal Stenosis From aerobic exercise to stretching, there are a number of things you can do to help with your spinal stenosis.

Slider Left
Slider Right

For questions, guidance, or more information, call us at any time!
We accept all extended health care insurances, motor vehicle accidents and W.S.I.B.