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^®.

A pinched nerve can cause a lot of pain and yet most of us are unaware as to how this starts. Simply stated, a pinched nerve is a medical term for an impaired function of a nerve that is under a lot of pressure. Anyone who has experienced this knows that it can be quite painful and sometimes debilitating.

Pinched nerves develop when one or more nerves become constricted or compressed by muscle, a bone, tendon, or cartilage. How this comes about is often by poor posture, overdoing physical activity, obesity, or if there is a genetic predisposition. This condition happens to nerves that control muscle movements or to nerves that relay sensations to the brain.

What Exactly Are Nerves?

A nerve is a microscopic cell that has bundles of fibres running throughout the body transmitting impulses of sensation to the spinal cord or brain. Some of these are several feet in length. A nerve cell that is in the spinal cord or in the brain is known as a central nerve; and nerves that originate in the spine that extend to the arms or legs are called peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerves are 'packages' of millions of nerve fibres that leave the spinal cord and branch out to their target muscles to help make them move. These nerve fibres also extend to the skin to provide us with the ability to feel.

The Onset of a Pinched Nerve

Symptoms of a pinched nerve may begin with numbness, tingling, burning sensation or shooting pains down the buttocks, legs, or in the neck, shoulders, arms and fingers.

Sometimes the sensations (or pain) you feel are is nowhere near the point of pressure. A pinched nerve in the lower back may originate in the calf. If there is constant pressure then the pain may increase. The person afflicted with this may experience a loss of movement, reflexes, and atrophy in the muscles. Once the pressure is relieved then the pain diminishes.

Many people tend to associate pinched nerves with the neck yet it is most common in the lower area of the back. A trained health professional can follow the pain to determine the origin.

Pinched nerves in the lower back can inhibit a person from participating in sports and even from walking, standing, twisting or lifting something.

If there is a pinched nerve in the neck then the pain will shoot down the arm. Pinched nerves in the neck are generally the result of repeatedly bending the neck but sometimes they can happen due to an impact. When there is a pinched nerve in the neck sometimes the pain can be so horrific that it limits neck motion. Sometimes this is brief and other times it can last quite some time. In severe situations a person can lose their reflex and muscle atrophy sets it.

Some people describe a pinched nerve in the neck as though it is ‘shooting lightning’.

Pinched Nerve Treatments

If you rarely experience a pinched nerve then this is something you need not worry about. However, if this occurs on a somewhat frequent basis then it’s advisable to seek treatment.

There are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs available on the market such as ibuprofen or aspirin but these are designed to mask the pain, not treat the source of the problem.  Some doctors may even say that surgery is required and if this happens to you be sure to get a second and a third opinion. Surgery is not only invasive it involves being right near the spinal cord. Many patients who have taken this route discover that surgery may only relieve pain for a period of time and it re-occurs if the overall structure of the spine is not corrected.

The chiropractic treatment methods do not cover up the pain or the symptoms; it treats damaged areas so that there is complete healing. Often this may include a scan of your spine and central nervous system using the most up-to-date technology available. This helps to target the exact location of the pinched nerve(s). No two individuals are alike so an individualized treatment plan is required in order to receive maximum results.

Often there will be proper chiropractic adjustments required to help relieve the pressure. Since daily activities are sometimes the cause of pinched nerves to begin with the treatment will include ‘the whole picture’. This means putting a plan in place to avoid the activities that cause the problem as well as looking at your diet. Good quality food is the fuel your body needs to help recover and regain good health.

If you have suffered with pinched nerves and want to explore a holistic approach to treatment that works then Chiro-Med Rehab Clinic can help you. Their staff is fully qualified professionals who have the know-how and the experience to help you.

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.

Because chiropractic therapy is considered to be an alternative method of treatment, some critics question its effectiveness as well as its level of safety.  When you visit a Richmond Hill chiropractor you can rest assured that you will receive professional care from a highly trained specialist in chiropractic medicine.

The level of risk involved in chiropractic care is minimal, and the benefits far outweigh the risks.  Manipulation of the spine for lower back pain, the most common type of back pain is considered to be a safe and effective method of treatment that can be used by nearly everyone.  It is not recommended for anyone who suffers from osteoporosis or nerve damage, and people who have had spinal surgery should consult their physician before seeking chiropractic treatment.  If your back pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, rash or chills, or unexpected weight loss, you should visit your doctor for an examination to rule out other causes such as infections or tumors before seeking chiropractic care.

In most cases, back pain is caused by repetitive movement and poor posture.  This type of back pain responds well to chiropractic treatment, and can be completely eliminated by removing the source of the pain while undergoing treatment.  A Richmond Hill chiropractor can advise you of the environmental factors that may be causing your back pain and suggest ways to improve your overall spinal health through exercise, better posture, and by making your environment more ergonomic.

With the demands that many jobs place on our bodies, it is easy for the spine to suffer additional strain from standing, sitting and repetitive motions.  For many of us, back pain is unavoidable.  Visiting a Richmond Hill chiropractor can provide you with the relief that you need.

A bursa is a small gel-like sac that generally contains a minimal amount of liquid. Bursae are throughout the body but most importantly they are located around the heel, knee, hip, elbow and shoulder. These act as cushions between soft tissues and the bones in order to help reduce friction between the bone and gliding muscles. Should a bursa become inflamed, then bursitis is the result.

Bursitis Risk Factors

Although bursitis is something that can affect anyone those in their later years and women are more at risk. Hip bursitis is the most common and there are several risk factors that contribute to this. They include:

• Leg length – Sometimes one leg is longer than the other, and in some cases by more than an inch. The body tries to compensate as the person walks and this creates stress leading to hip bursitis.
• Calcium deposits – These deposits (and bone spurs) can develop within the tendons that attach to the bony prominences toward the near end of the femur (trochanter). This in turn irritates the bursa therefore causing inflammation.
• Overuse injury – Running, cycling, standing for long periods of time all can contribute to bursitis.
• Previous surgery – Surgeries around a prosthetic implant or hip can lead to bursitis.
• Hip injury – Any blow or injury to the hips can cause inflammation of the bursa.
• Spine disease – Scoliosis, arthritis of the lower spine and other spinal problems can contribute to bursitis.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – This tends to increase the likelihood of bursae becoming inflamed.

Bursitis Symptoms

If an individual has bursitis, then he or she will feel pain. Often there is an achy or stiff feeling and the affected area looks swollen and is red. The affected area will hurt more when pressure is applied.

Bursitis of the hips often starts with pain at the point of the hip and extends to the outer thigh area. At the onset the pain is sharp and it later becomes achy. Typically the pain is worse after sitting for long periods of time, lying on the hip at night, and it may worsen with prolonged activity.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options

The good news is that most people with hip bursitis can get relief with some simple lifestyle changes. Some of these changes include:

• Avoid the activities that tend to worsen symptoms.
• Use anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen and even turmeric.
• Overuse injury – Running, cycling, standing for long periods of time all can contribute to bursitis.
• If only temporary, use a walking cane or crutches to help you get through the worst of it.
• Seek the advice of a health profession who can help with physical therapy.

Some physical therapy methods include the use of heat, ice, electric stimulation, ultrasound and laser therapy, yet having the guidance of a health professional is strongly advised in order to minimize the length of time it takes to recover.

PREVENTING BURSITIS

Of course, like most health ailments, prevention is paramount. Avoiding certain activities that can worsen a pre-existing condition is the first step in prevention. Also, avoid repetitive movements that place stress of areas that have a bursa (especially the hips). Maintaining strength and flexibility in the hip area is really important.

Properly fitted shoes are essential if an individual is aware that one leg is longer than the other.
Last but not least, losing weight may be required to reduce the stress on the hips.

The best plan is that if you have suffered from or it feels like you may have bursitis, see a health professional. Never self-diagnose because things could go from bad to worse before you know it. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has friendly health professionals on staff to help you live pain-free as naturally as possible. 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.

The origin of acupuncture dates back to ancient China, 2500 years ago or more.  The practice was adopted by neighbouring Asian countries including Vietnam, Korea and Japan, and was brought to Europe by some of the first Chinese settlers.  Acupuncture did not become well known in North America until the early 1970s, when President Nixon traveled to China.  During this trip, one of the reporters who accompanied Nixon developed appendicitis and had to undergo surgery, after which he was given acupuncture to treat a minor complication that arose.  The reporter wrote about his experience, introducing North America to the practice of Acupuncture.  Today, acupuncture is commonly practiced throughout the world with proven success.  Richmond Hill acupuncture experts can provide professional acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of ailments.

Acupuncture can be used to assist with weight loss or quitting smoking, and it is also very effective in the treatment of substance abuse problems, even severe addictions.  It can eliminate chronic pain and also be used to treat depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.  Chinese surgeons even use acupuncture to control pain during surgery.  In some cases, they perform the entire surgery with the patient awake with no assistance from drugs whatsoever.

The way that acupuncture works, according to Chinese medicine, is that energy runs in several channels throughout the body.  These channels are called meridians.  When the flow of energy becomes blocked, pain or illness can occur.  Acupuncture needles inserted at key points in the meridians unblock the energy, allowing it to flow freely.  According to modern science, inserting the needles in these specific points stimulates the body to release chemicals that address whatever physical problem the point is connected to, correcting the body’s biochemical balance so that it can heal itself.  Contact a Richmond Hill acupuncture specialist to discuss treatment for any type of ailment that you may have.

Anyone who has had massage therapy or even just a deep massage to help aching muscles knows how great they feel afterwards. If there were to be a list of the top three things that relax us, makes us feel great, and has health benefits, massage therapy would be on it.

So why is it that massage therapy helps us to feel so good? Without a doubt, massage therapy helps to increase blood circulation. Ancient Greeks believed that a daily massage was an amazing way to ensure maintaining good health.

There are specific massages that boost circulation to the extremities. Good circulation is essential to good health because when our circulation is where it needs to be, then our circulatory system delivers oxygen-rich blood and nutrients that is required to heal.

Everyone has experienced those moments of inactivity when our hands or feet get cold; this is because of the lack of circulation. Having this happen once in a while is fine, but if this occurs on a regular basis it could be the warning of something more severe such as blocked arteries.

Therapeutic massage can increase the circulation of blood as well as the flow of lymph. The stimulation of nerve receptors causes blood vessels to dilate and this facilitates blood flow. Lymph is a milky white fluid that takes impurities and waste away from the tissues and passes through the lymphatic system which acts as a filtering valve. Lymph does not circulate the same as blood so its movement largely depends on the squeezing effect of muscle contractions. On one hand, inactive people are unable to stimulate lymph flow yet on the other hand the stimulation caused by activity can be outstripped by the increased waste produced by the activity. Fortunately, massage can help the movement of lymph either way.

It goes without saying; our entire body needs to be healthy. Every cell in our body is dependent on an abundant supply of blood and lymph because these fluids deliver nutrients and oxygen and remove wastes and toxins. Without good circulation there is potential trouble.

Buttocks And Backs Of Legs

A  sluggish lymphatic system and circulation can greatly improve with a therapeutic massage to the backs of the legs and buttocks. The movement of lymph is highly dependent on muscle contractions and good circulation. A therapeutic massage helps to drain a blocked up lymphatic system.

Here is an interesting fact that women in particular will want to know; an accumulation of proteins, fats, and other wastes that does not get excreted from the body often ends up becoming cellulite. This is why a therapeutic massage on the back of legs and buttocks can greatly help.

Massaging the wrong areas or focusing on certain acupressure points have been known to trigger uterine contractions in some women making it vital that a prenatal massage be given by a qualified health professional. Massage therapists trained in prenatal massage know exactly what areas to focus on and provide the maximum benefits during the massage therapy.

Arm And Hand Massages

Many people get through the day with tight, clenched hands, arms, and there can be a plethora of stress and anger building up all day causing neck pain, back pain, headaches, and much more.
The lymph can also collect toxins in this area of the body as well.

Getting a therapeutic massage on the arms helps to relax the muscles therefore creating more blood flow. The increased circulation will help relieve pain, and stress. In some cases it has been reported to help those with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Stimulating circulation in your hands is as important as anywhere else on your body. If you suffer from Raynaud's phenomenon (a painful condition of primarily the fingers, toes) then therapeutic massages are important. This condition is thought to be caused by a sharp and persistent contraction of a blood vessel, which reduces blood flow to the fingers.

Improving circulation in the hands is also important following surgery or after an injury, such as ligament sprains and muscle strains. Improved circulation to injured tissues helps to expedite healing by bringing more nutrients to the area and removing harmful metabolic byproducts that tend to accumulate in the tissues following trauma.

The overall therapeutic effect of massage was once described by Hippocrates (the Father of Medicine) as ‘vis medicatrix naturae’. Hippocrates, a massage advocate, believed that massage helped the body’s natural healing powers.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has qualified massage therapists on staff to help you improve your circulation. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located at 10144 Yonge Street, just north of Major MacKenzie Drive in the heart of Richmond Hill. Visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 for more information today!

Many people with low back pain go to a chiropractor seeking a quick and simple solution. One way a person can help alleviate their back pain without putting too much stress on their back is swimming. Swimming can be an incredibly helpful exercise for low back pain sufferers

It’s important to remember that lower back pain can sometimes be caused by swimming when muscles become hyperextended or overstretched during forward strokes. To prevent back pain while swimming, it’s essential that you use proper form. Unnatural movements while swimming can cause damage, so it is critical to maintain the correct movements while swimming. Swimming with backstrokes or the sidestroke can minimize stress on the back as compared to frontward strokes.

Certain swimming strokes can cause back problems. Here are some things to be aware of when doing specific strokes:

• Freestyle: Make sure you do not rotate your head too much while taking breaths. Also, try not to let your head move up too much; if you do, then neck or back injuries can occur. When you’re not going up for breathes make sure you keep your head facing down. Remember, too much rolling can cause trouble.
• Backstroke: Muscles in the front of the neck tend to become fatigued if you have not done the backstroke in a long time. Be sure to ease into this stoke and avoid too much movement in this position.
• Breaststroke:  It is important to keep your head and neck still as you do this stroke. Gently raise your head and back to take breathes.

Benefits Of Swimming

Swimming is beneficial for low back pain for several reasons. It allows those suffering from minor back injuries to retain some level of activity. When an individual swims they are promoting good muscle health therefore are less likely to tense or cramp up. More importantly, in many situations, water tends to makes back pain sufferers feel better. Getting in a pool for a relaxed work out could very well be one of the best therapies.

Back pain does not have to halt your activity level. Once in the water there is no gravity therefore alleviating an enormous amount of stress on the affected area.  An hour or two in a pool builds back muscles; it also builds muscles in the shoulders, arms, legs and neck. In addition this activity helps to improve heart health, and helps the swimmer maintain a healthy body weight. Having a healthy body weight is beneficial to halting back pain.

Swimming can also be a great way to overcome back pain from a pinched nerve, herniated disc, and even bone spurs. Strengthening the muscles that support the back means less stress is placed on the spinal column and pain can be reduces or eliminated. A warm swimming pool also promotes blood flow and helps the healing process.

If swimming continues to be painful it’s important to stop and seek the advice of a qualified health professional. By continuing to swim despite continual or worsening pain, the condition affecting the lower back area may become worse and more intense forms of treatment may be required to reverse discomfort.

If you are able to do some swimming as frequently as you can throughout the week this will help to alleviate pain. It is important to remember that if the pain persists and swimming appears not to be helping then Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can help you. Chiro-Med has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you resume the activities you once enjoyed – free of pain! Call 905-918-0419 for more information or to book your appointment!

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.