Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Clinic in Richmond Hill

Chiropractic care has been the health care of choice for many health issues. It is a health care discipline that emphasizes diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. Acupuncture aims to restore and maintain health through the stimulation of specific points on the body. It is comprised of a series of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical points on the body using a variety of techniques. When used together, these two health disciplines have provided countless individuals with treatment that is second-to-none.

Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing practices in the world. When a person has acupuncture needles strategically placed along specific points of the body it can improve blood circulation, improve vitality, and it can heal various health ailments.

A chiropractic adjustment uses a range of therapies which may include an impulse to a specific joint to correct, or manipulate a joint fixation. Both treatments share the same goal of returning the body to its peak level of efficiency.

A health plan that combines chiropractic and acupuncture is not new; in fact in some areas this dual therapy has been working in tandem for more than forty years.

Dual Therapy History

Credit for the dual therapy goes to the late Dr. Richard Yennie (DC, Dipl. Ac., NCCAOM). In 1949 he served in the U.S. Counterintelligence Corps as a translator and interpreter at the war crimes trials after World War II. Dr. Yennie was planning to practice law upon returning to the U.S. but he suffered a major back injury. Conventional treatment at a military hospital did not treat him; however, one visit to a master Japanese acupuncturist did and this changed his goals.

Dr. Yennie studied with the best Japanese, Chinese, Korean and European acupuncture practitioners then brought this knowledge and wisdom to American health practitioners. His fluency in Japanese and conversational Chinese enabled him to learn directly from the best Asian practitioners. His quest for learning about alternative health care continued and in 1953 he graduated from the Cleveland Chiropractic College. Dr. Yennie was the first non-Chinese to serve on the Board of Directors of the China Medical Association Acupuncture Research Committee (Taipei, Taiwan), serving as its Deputy Director. He was the first president of the American Chiropractic Association’s College of Chiropractic Acupuncture. There is a long, impressive list of Dr. Yennie’s accomplishments but his greatest legacy is the creation of two institutions: the Acupuncture Society of America (ASA) in 1968 and the ABCA, affiliated with the American Chiropractic Association.
Chiropractic Care and Acupuncture

Chiropractic and acupuncture treatments work in such a way that effectively allows an individual’s body to heal without the use of drugs or surgery. This may not be the case in all situations, but overall they are trusted forms of health care.

Both modalities are designed to promote natural healing, restore an individual’s health, and correct imbalances. Each modality accomplishes these goals in its own unique way. In some cases a person’s situation may be considered severe, or a patient may want to be treated quicker so the combination of these two therapies may prove to be the most efficient treatment method resulting in the fastest results.

It is important to keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another. There are other factors that come into a play when a person is being treated such as genetics and lifestyle choices which can alter outcomes. Each one of us has a unique healing mechanism and our immune system and diet plays a significant role in the healing process.

For more information on combining chiropractic care and acupuncture, feel free to call our office during regular business hours and one of our associates will be please to speak with 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. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Sources:
http://www.healthinsightstoday.com/articles/v2i3/yennie_p1.html

Spondylolisthesis, (pronounced SPON-dill-oh-lis-THEE-sis) and spondylolysis (pronounced SPON-dee-low-LYE-sis are common causes of low back pain. Spondylolisthesis refers to one vertabra slipping over another in the front of the spine. Spondylolysis is when there is a separation of the small bony arch in the back of the spine located between the facet joints; this is called the pars interarticularis. In more common terms, spondylolisthesis is a stress factor that weakens the bones causing them to lose proper positioned and spondylolysis is a stress fracture in the bones of the spinal column.

Spondylolisthesis & Spondylolysis Similarities and Differences

Spondylolysis is considered the most common reason for lower back pain among young athletes. In fact, research shows that only 3 to 6 percent of the entire population are affected. X-rays are the easiest way to determine that the injured individual has this condition. Spondylolysis generally affects the fifth lumbar vertebra (sometimes the fourth).

Spondylolisthesis more commonly occurs in adolescents than adults. This condition can develop anywhere along the spine however the lower back is the mostly affected. In severe cases, the vertebral bones may press on nerves causing intense pain.

Causes

These spinal conditions are believed to develop as a result of overuse or it can even be hereditary. From a hereditary perspective, research seems to indicate that spondylolysis is more likely to occur in those who were born with thin vertebral bones. Add to this certain sports and activities that place stress on the lower back means the chances of being inflicted with spondylolysis increases.

Sports such as gymnastics, football and weight-lifting can contribute to spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis formation. Individuals who experienced significant periods of rapid growth in their life may also be at risk for vertebral slippage.

Symptoms

It may sound odd but a person may have one of these conditions and not experience any symptoms. When they do occur, the pain is described like having a muscle strain stretch across the lower back. An attempt to continue in activities that require use of the lower back can worsen spondylolysis back pain.

Spondylolisthesis can affect how a person walks and their posture because this may narrow the spinal canal which causes nerve compression. The individual may also experience an upper back ache and spasms that tighten the hamstring muscles.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis is dependent on a qualified health professional looking at a set of X-rays, a CAT scan, or an MRI scan. In most cases, these conditions are easily seen on an X-ray of the lumbar region.

Treatment

Treatment goals for spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis are simple:

• Pain reduction.
• Allow the fracture to heal.
• Return the patient to their daily activities.

The great news is that treatment is almost always nonsurgical. Most patients with spondylolysis and low-grade spondylolisthesis will greatly improve with nonsurgical treatment.

Nonsurgical treatment may include:

• rest;
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• physical therapy; and
• bracing

Improving Stability and Control

One chiropractic approach to the treatment of spondylolisthesis is to strengthen and re-coordinate the deep support muscles of the lower back area. An attempt is made to improve the dynamic stability and control of the spine. The patient may learn spinal stabilization exercises to train the muscles in order to gain stability and control.

Postural Correction

Over time many spondylolisthesis patients may develop postural asymmetries. One important factor in treatment is the correction of any loss of the normal upright alignment of the spine and pelvis. Patients will learn corrective exercises specific for the postural imbalances they have developed.

Orthotics

Depending on the individual’s condition, long-term support of the spine may be required by using custom-made orthotics. A common factor that occurs in many of these patients is that they have low or absent arches in their feet making additional support necessary.

Surgery

Surgery is required only if all other treatment options fail. Nerves that exit the spine must be freed of all pressure by a laminectomy.  However, this is a ‘last resort’ option and only in dire situations. Most patients find relief through regular chiropractic care.

For more information on spondylolisthesis and Spondylolysis feel free to call our office during regular business hours and one of our associates will be please to speak with 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. 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.

Back, neck and sciatica pain can range from a mild nuisance to excruciating pain. According to the Canadian Chiropractic Association, about 4 million Canadians (15 percent of the population) seek the services of a chiropractor every year.

The back is a marvelous mechanical system that contains a complex group of muscles and the spine. The spine consists of 24 vertebrae (small bones) that are stacked on top of one another and together, they are referred to as the vertebral column. In between each of the vertebrae is a gel-like cushion that absorbs pressure and prevents the bones from touching one another; this cushion is called the disc. Ligaments hold the vertebrae together and tendons connect muscles to the vertebral column. Inside the spinal column is a massive collection of nerve fibres transmitting electrical information throughout the entire body. This mechanical system is so complex that when pain strikes, it can detract you from enjoying your day-to-day activities.

What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

If you ever get a chance to go to a local park and find a set of high monkey bars, hang from them; the feeling on the back is almost euphoric. Spinal decompression therapy mimics that feeling by providing a mild linear pull on the body. This gentle pull that spinal decompression therapy provides can assist a misaligned disc to be gently manipulated back into place thereby creating adequate space between the vertebrae and when this occurs, higher levels of oxygen and blood will return to the area providing relief. In addition, any pressure on the spinal nerves will be alleviated.

There are several back conditions that can be treated using spinal decompression therapy. People with lumbar strains, sciatic, herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative discs, degenerative joint disease, and spinal arthritis have all experienced relief through spinal decompression therapy.

To better illustrate what spinal decompression "looks" like, think of the all the vertebrae as Lego® blocks loosely placed one on top of another. Compression of the spine (which occurs through poor posture, daily wear and tear, degenerating discs or injury) is the pushing of the Lego® blocks tightly together, and for the spine, this is not good.

Spinal decompression therapy is painless and each treatment lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

Spinal Decompression Therapy Research

In a 2003 Orthopedic Technology Review spinal decompression therapy was studied. Patients who suffered at least four weeks of herniated discs or degenerative disc diseases were treated. The results were astounding – 86 percent of those treated reported immediate symptom relief and after the completion of treatment, 90 days later, they were still pain-free.

Are You A Candidate For Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is generally only one part of a complete treatment plan. There are other therapies a healthcare provider may recommend to help expedite the healing process. If you are want a non-invasive way to combat back problems and are considering spinal decompression therapy, the fully qualified health professionals at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre are only too pleased to answer any questions you may have. Put an end to back pain and call Chiro-Med Rehab Centre today. Start your road to recovery by booking your appointment today.

Tension headaches are one of the most common forms of headaches. Other forms of headaches include migraines, sinus headaches and cluster headaches, but tension headaches seem to be the one type of headache that most people experience. In fact, the World Health Organization recently stated that about half of all adults suffer from headache disorders, including tension headaches.

Canada.com quoted Dr. Shekhar Saxena, WHO's director of mental health and substance abuse disorders on June 20, 2011, "Headache and migraine disorders are greatly underrated and underreported by health systems and receive too little attention." This news story goes on to say that headache disorders (including tension headaches) have a ripple effect. There are huge economic and societal costs that result from time off work.

What Is A Tension Headache?

More often than not, a tension headache is a mild to moderate pain that can be best described as having a tight rubber band squeezing the head. It may also sometimes feel as though the muscles in the head are contracting. Tension headaches are not just restricted to the head because some individuals feel discomfort or pain in the neck or on the scalp.

This headache-type occurs at any age but they are most common in adults.

If a tension headache occurs two or more times with a week and persists for several weeks, then this condition is referred to as being chronic. Sometimes a primary headache can be over-treated therefore a person who is regularly on pain medication for more than three days a week can develop rebound headaches.

Tension Headache Causes

Causes of tension headaches are often when the muscles on the neck and scalp contract – and this is tension. These contractions can be a natural response to various stimuli such as: stress, anxiety, depression or a head injury. In addition, if you engage in an activity that demands your head to be in one position for any length of time without moving it, this can cause a tension headache. Other causes include if you slept in the wrong position or sleeping in a room that's too cold.

According to the National Institutes of Health there are also triggers that can start a tension headache. Some of these triggers include:

• Colds/flu
• Dental problems such as teeth grinding
• Eye strain
• Too much smoking
• Alcohol use
• Excessive caffeine intake
• Nasal congestion/sinus infection
• Fatigue
• Overexertion

Tension Headache Symptoms

Tension headache pain does not throb and it is not a sharp pain. It's pressure with a dull-like pain. There are other symptoms such as the feeling of a tight rubber band on the head and the pressure/pain is felt all over, not isolated in one place. These sensations can be felt on the scalp, at the temples, back of the neck and possibly in the shoulders.

These symptoms may be an isolated event or they may be frequent. The pain may even get worse if triggered by stress, noise, glare or fatigue.

Nausea or vomiting is very rarely associated with this type of headache and sleeping may be very difficult if suffering from a tension headache.

Treatment Options

You can often spot a person who is at the onset or experiencing a tension headache because you see them massaging their temples, neck or scalp. If you find yourself trying to massage yourself and it is not working, then profession massage therapy is a viable treatment option. Massage therapy in Richmond Hill at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has helped many patients get rid of tension headaches and has worked as a preventative measure.

Other treatments for milder forms of tension headaches include a hot or cold shower or taking an over- the-counter painkiller.

For those who suffer from tension headaches regularly, they may want to examine their lifestyle. If there is an activity that triggers these headaches, implementing some stress-management techniques can help minimize or eliminate these headaches and can have positive outcomes.

If a tension headache occurs often, seek professional help. Should any headache affect your ability to see or speak then call 911 right away. No one needs to suffer with ongoing headaches when treatment options such as massage therapy are available.

The ancient Chinese healing practice of acupuncture was brought to the Western world by some of the first Chinese settlers to reach North America.  Treatment involves the insertion of tiny needles into the skin at precise acupuncture points all over the body.  This therapy does not involve the use of drugs, even though the effects can be much more powerful than that of drugs.  Richmond Hill acupuncture specialists can treat practically any type of ailment using this method, although one of the most common reasons people seek acupuncture treatment is for pain, most often back pain.

It may seem strange that inserting needles into the flesh can actually stop pain instead of causing it, but that is how acupuncture works.  The needles are made from high quality materials, usually stainless steel, but in some cases they may also be made from silver or gold.  They are designed to be ‘atraumatic’, which means that unlike a hypodermic needle, acupuncture needles do not have an angled cutting edge to slice through the skin.  Acupuncture needles are very thin, about as thick as a hair, with a rounded shape and pointed end that can slip easily into the skin without causing pain or bleeding.

Acupuncture is frequently used for the treatment of back pain, but other common uses include headaches, particularly migraines and joint pain.  Any type of chronic pain responds well to acupuncture.  Some Chinese surgeons even use acupuncture in place of anaesthetic drugs during surgery.  They simply insert the needles in the appropriate points and the patients lie awake throughout the procedure, pain-free and sometimes even able to get up and walk away from the operating table after the surgery.  Consult a Richmond Hill acupuncture professional today to learn how acupuncture can help you conquer your pain.

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.

Cervical disc herniation typically occurs as we age. Over time discs can lose elasticity and ligaments around the discs can get frail. Damaged discs can rupture or bulge and cause what is known as a slipped or herniated disc. The vast majority of herniated discs occur in the lumbar or the cervical area of the spine.

So where exactly are discs located? Discs act as shock absorbers and are comprised of strong connective tissue located between vertebrae. The cervical spine is located in the neck area and consists of seven vertebrae in total located between the skull and the chest area. Also in the cervical spine are two facet joints that assist in the bending and rotating of the neck and upper back.

A Closer Look At The Discs

A disc is comprised of the "annulus fibrosus," a tough outer layer and the "nucleus pulposus," an almost gel-like centre. Here's where age can affect the discs; the centre of a disc can begin to lose water content which results in the loss of the cushiony effect. As a disc deteriorates, tearing can occur in the outer layer. Displacement of the disc's centre can therefore occur therefore becoming a herniated or ruptured disc. A herniated disc can create pressure on the nerves resulting in tingling, numbness pain or weakness in the arms or shoulders. The first telltale sign that this has happened is usually neck pain.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy basically means the pinching or inflammation of a cervical nerve. So this is cervical disc herniation. It can also be cervical spondylosis which means there are degenerative changes including: the contour of the disc bulging; narrowing of the disc space and; spurs that are the result of the calcification of the disc.

Diagnosis

A medical professional will conduct a thorough examination to determine the exact location of the pain as well as an examination of the neck and complete assessment to determine if there is a loss of sensation or reflex changes

The family physician can also provide a cervical disc herniation diagnosis by requisitioning an X-ray image, CT scan or an MRI. An X-ray will reveal narrowing of the disc space and bone spurs but it cannot show a disc herniation or nerves in the spine. The MRI and CT scans can provide a better picture of all the spinal elements and will usually determine if there is a cervical disc herniation.

Nonsurgical Treatment For Cervical Disc Herniation

Many patients will discover that there is a significant improvement with nonsurgical treatment. A qualified health professional can prescribe nonsurgical treatments including rest, a neck collar, heat treatment, cold packs, physical therapy, hands on therapy, as well as specific exercises. The main objective of nonsurgical treatment is to reduce the irritation of the nerve from the herniated disc material so that pain is relieved. So long as there is a specialized care program designed for your exact needs, and you adhere to the health professional's advice, pain management or elimination can be achieved.

Chiropractic and physiotherapy treatment options are very effective and for most patients. Treatment may involve several visits but the results are worth it.

Spinal decompression therapy is another effective method to manage and/or eliminate pain. It's crucial that patients follow the treatment plan as explained by their health professional in order to maximize the end result which is elimination of pain and increased quality of life.

The good news is that very few people suffering with a cervical disc herniation requires surgery. Most individuals are satisfied with the outcome of nonsurgical treatment.

Massage therapy has an extensive history in many cultures worldwide. Today, people have the opportunity to experience massage therapy for relaxation and for health-related purposes. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill offers massage therapy for their patients to help relieve pain, swelling as well as to rehabilitate and improve physical function.

A therapeutic massage has countless benefits that greatly improve the condition of many different
ailments. Sometimes a therapeutic massage includes deep tissue massaging and this occurs when the registered massage therapist applies firm pressure to the muscles using fingertips, hands, elbows, knuckles, and even forearms, in order to stimulate muscle and body tissue.

MASSAGE THERAPY BENEFITS

Chronic Pain Reduction:
If you suffer from chronic discomfort such as muscle inflammation, a bad back, neck pain, headaches or even arthritis, massage therapy can help alleviate some, if not all of the pain. For some clients, deep tissue massages have proven to be highly effective and in some cases, better than daily medications. Medications tend to mask the real problem; they were not formulated to cure the health ailment.

Massage therapy increases blood flow, so it reduces inflammation in affected areas. Firm pressure eases pain and alleviates tension, loosens tightness as well as the buildup of lactic acid that can cause pain. When maintained on a regular basis, massage therapy can be a great alternative for an individual who is not interested in prescription drugs.

Stress Relief:
Another benefit of massage therapy, and specifically, deep tissue massage, is stress relief. A firm yet forceful pressure applied to the body relaxes and can eliminate tension. Not only are muscles being worked but the increased blood flow flushes out toxins and helps to put the body and the mind in a relaxed state.

A registered massage therapist concentrates on massaging various trigger points that are commonly known to hold stress. By working out the muscles, the body relaxes with greater ease. If you are an individual who maintains a chaotic schedule then massage therapy may be what you need at least monthly, in order to keep stress at bay.

Increased Blood Flow:
One of the best benefits of a deep tissue massage is the increased blood flow it causes. Due to the direct pressure that massage therapists apply, blood circulation is increased throughout the body. As a result, this increased blood flow boosts oxygen to all of the tissues in the body. More oxygen circulating in the blood means that toxins are removed at a higher rate and added oxygen can provide more energy and it aids in fighting free radicals.

Lower Blood Pressure:
A beneficial side effect of eliminating tension and stress involves reducing blood pressure. As the registered massage therapist applies pressure he or she will reduce muscle tightness, and this can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure, especially for those prone to high blood pressure.

Experiencing true stress relief has been proven to promote more serotonin production in the body. Serotonin is a hormone that is responsible for making a person feel happy.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill uses massage therapy to also help with:

• Maintenance care
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Pain or tingling into arms or legs
• Postural issues
• Pregnancy massage
• Prenatal pain
• Postnatal pain
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Sports injuries
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Lymphatic drainage

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has registered massage therapists who ensure all clients are treated as individuals. After all, no two people are the same, nor should a massage therapy treatment be a carbon copy for everyone. Chiro-Med registered massage therapists truly care about every individual's needs - and it shows.