Sinus pain (sinusitis) and pressure can lead to headaches that can have a huge impact on your quality of life. For some individuals, the pain can be so severe it is crippling. If you suffer from sinus pain and pressure, or sinus headaches, chiropractic care can help.

Sinuses

Sinuses are cavities that are in the forehead (frontal sinuses); between the eyes (ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses); and in the cheekbones (maxillary sinuses). These cavities filter and moisten the air that is inhaled and they give resonance to our voice. Sinuses are lined with fine hair-like cells called cilia. Cilia help to drain mucous through the sinus passages into the nose.

Defining Sinusitis

Sinusitis, or sinus infections, is also commonly referred to as rhinosinusitis. This condition occurs when the sinus openings become blocked or too much mucous builds up causing one or more of the cavities to become inflamed or swollen. Allergic rhinitis or asthma can be associated with chronic sinusitis as well.

Sinus infections can be either acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term). With a chronic sinus infection, the infection or inflammation does not completely go away for 12 weeks or more. Typically these occur after a cold, an allergy attack or from pollutants in the environment.

Acute sinusitis often occurs in those with weakened immune systems and it is almost always viral. A small percentage of these individuals will develop a secondary bacterial infection with streptococci, pneumococci, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or staphylococci.

Chronic sinusitis involves many factors that can combine to create chronic inflammation. Chronic allergies, structural abnormalities, environmental irritants, mucociliary dysfunction, and other factors interact with infectious organisms to cause chronic sinusitis. The organisms are commonly bacterial but may be fungal. Many bacteria have been implicated; however, in a few cases, chronic maxillary sinusitis is secondary to a dental infection.

Allergic fungal sinusitis is a form of chronic sinusitis characterized by diffuse nasal congestion, markedly viscid nasal secretions, and, often, nasal polyps. It is an allergic response to the presence of topical fungi, usually Aspergillus.

Specific Causes of Sinusitis

Those who smoke or work with children can be at risk for developing sinusitis. Even pregnancy or development disorders such as cystic fibrosis can be an antecedent to getting sinusitis.  Other causes include:

• Inflammatory and infectious causes that are related to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, as well as allergies and polyps.
• Tumours in the nose and sinuses.
• Anatomical causes such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates in the nose.
• Immunocompromised states such as diabetes or HIV infection.
• Prolonged ICU stays, severe burns, and ciliary dyskinesia.

Symptoms

If you have sinus congestion, discharge, and pressure with facial pain or headaches this could mean you simply have a cold. However, if the discharge from your nose is yellow or discoloured you may have a sinus infection. Also, when you bend over and the pressure intensifies, then chances are you have sinusitis.

Prevention Tips

Hand washing is perhaps the most important key to protecting ourselves not just from sinusitis, but other infectious conditions.  Washing hands isn’t just running our hands through water; it is using soap and water and scrubbing up to about 10 or 15cm above the wrist for minimum 10 seconds. Removing all jewellery is important and making sure between the fingers and under the nails are attended to as well.

We should be washing our hands:

• When we come home from anywhere.
• Before eating food.
• After petting our dogs or cats.
• After toileting.
• Most importantly, before touching our face.

Wash your vegetables and fruits before you prepare them. Many people still are not coughing or sneezing the way they should be . . . into their sleeve or a tissue. People are coughing and sneezing either into their hands or over produce in grocery stores!

Germs are commonly spread by the respiratory droplets emitted from sneezing and coughing. When they land on your hands, they’re transmitted to door knobs, elevator buttons, food, desk tops, and other surfaces the people around you are likely to also touch.

The CDC reports on their website:

• It is estimated that washing hands with soap and water could reduce diarrheal disease-associated deaths by up to 50%.
• Researchers in London estimate that if everyone routinely washed their hands, a million deaths a year could be prevented.
• A large percentage of foodborne disease outbreaks are spread by contaminated hands. Appropriate hand washing practices can reduce the risk of foodborne illness and other infections.
• Hand washing can reduce the risk of respiratory infections by 16%.

Keep the Immune System Healthy

A compromised immune system is an invitation to many health conditions, not just sinusitis. Food and food substances such as refined sugar, processed foods, pop and other sugary beverages will compromise the immune system.

Eating healthy is critical in order to maintain a healthy immune system. If possible, on a regular basis eat different mushrooms and seaweeds as these contain beta glucans which are critical to a healthy immune system.

Chiropractic Care

In order to help prevent or treat sinusitis, chiropractic care can help. A qualified health professional is your best ally when seeking help.

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.

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.

Water is critical to life and this includes the human body. There is no shortage of websites out there all sharing their opinions as to how much water we need every day to thwart off dehydration and to nourish all cells in our body. The reality is that there is no “one size fits all” answer for this. Drinking to avert thirst is not enough. Every cell in our body needs water and this includes the joints in our body.

How Much Water to Drink Daily?

The amount of fluid we need in order for all our cells to perform their best varies according to factors such as climate, physical activity levels, and physiology. As a rough guideline, the Dieticians of Canada suggest 2.2 litres (nine cups) per day for women and three litres (12 cups) for men. These totals include food moisture, which accounts for about one-fifth of the average person’s liquid intake and more for people who eat a lot of fruit and veggies. Keep in mind that you’ll need extra fluids if you’re exercising, if the weather is hot, if you are not feeling well, or if you’re somewhere with indoor heating (which can rob moisture from your skin).

As we age our bodies change and with that is the ability to detect the onset of dehydration. Adults from about 20 to 60 years of age generally know when they are thirsty, and this means dehydration has already started. Seniors must take extra care to get fluids on a regular basis every day because their bodies do not detect thirst as easy as they once did. Also, many older people tend to have modest appetites, so they receive less fluid from food. Ageing kidneys tend to function a little less in our elderly so they are sometimes not as good at conserving the water they do get.

It is possible to consume too much water. Those who have certain health conditions such as thyroid disease, kidney, liver, or heart problems may trigger other health issues. Also, individuals who take medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opiate pain medications, and (some) antidepressants risk water retention.

As the body loses water without replacing it, the blood becomes more concentrated and, at a point, this triggers the kidneys to retain water. Also, dehydration means that blood becomes thicker and more concentrated. This creates difficulties. For example, the cardiovascular system compensates by increasing the heart rate to maintain blood pressure. In addition, when a dehydrated body is forced to keep going, such as during exercising or heat stress, the risk of exhaustion or collapse greatly increases. For example, this can cause a person to faint when standing up too quickly.

Thicker blood also means that it is not flowing as freely as it needs to in order to bring oxygen, nutrients and water to all parts of the body. Joints, therefore, become dehydrated.

Benefits of Drinking Water

Water keeps every system in the body functioning properly. The Harvard Medical School Special Health Report: “6-Week Plan for Health Eating” notes that water has many important jobs such as:

• carries nutrients and oxygen to the cells
• flushes bacteria from the bladder
• aids digestion
• prevents constipation
• normalizes blood pressure
• stabilizes heartbeat
• protects organs and tissues
• regulates body temperature
• maintains electrolyte (sodium) balance
• cushions joints

Our Joints and Water

Water is the most abundant component of the articular cartilage, contributing up to 80 percentage of its wet weight. Approximately 30 percent of this water is associated with the intrafibrillar space within the collagen, although a small percentage is contained in the intracellular space.

Generally, tendons and ligaments consist of about 20 percent cellular material and about 80 percent extracellular material. The extracellular material is further subdivided into about 30 percent solids and 70 percent water. These extracellular solids include collagen and a small amount of elastin. Around 65 to 80 percentage of cartilage is water.

What this means is that the lack of hydration is sometimes associated with joint pain. The water content in cartilage is regulated by proteins that become a gel-like consistency when they come into contact with water. This gel-like liquid provides cushioning, lubrication, shock absorption and nutrition to the cartilage in our joints. They are the framework, much like a sponge. For the sponge to be “full” and provide that “cushion” it needs to be filled with water. This is why, even if you take specific supplements for your joints, without enough water, they will not provide the best benefits. Worse, those taking some prescribed or over-the-counter medications such as NSAIDS may be at risk of chronic dehydration. Some medicines have an effect on the distribution of electrolytes and salts in the body therefore reducing swelling and inflammation associated with pain; however, this can further reduce water content in the body.

According to H.H. Mitchell, Journal of Biological Chemistry 158, the brain and heart are composed of 73 percent water, and the lungs are about 83 percent water. The skin contains 64 percent water, muscles and kidneys are 79 percent, and even the bones contain 31 percent water. Not only do these parts of the body require water, so does the articular cartilage, synovial fluid, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

Without water in the joints, people become susceptible to joint damage and degeneration. It is of the utmost importance to make sure you get a sufficient amount of water to help protect your joints.

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.

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from stress, muscle stiffness and back pain, you may prefer to use a drug-free approach to treatment. No matter what ailments you may have, you can find a variety of alternative forms of therapy in Richmond Hill. Therapies most commonly used to relieve pain and stress, include chiropractic treatment, massage therapy and acupuncture.

Chiropractic treatment is commonly used for the treatment of back pain, but it can benefit many other parts of the body as well. This is because the spine is linked to all other parts of the body, so adjustment of the spine also helps to adjust other areas as well. Many people find relief from headaches, mood disorders and digestive difficulties by visiting a Richmond Hill chiropractor.

Massage therapy is an ancient art of relaxation that has been practiced in many cultures for thousands of years. Massage is said to balance the mind, body and soul, and enable the body to heal itself both inside and out. Richmond Hill massage therapy improves circulation, releases toxins from the tissues and triggers the release of endorphins that relieve pain and give you an overall sense of well being.

Practiced in the Orient for thousands of years, acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine. In acupuncture treatments, tiny needles are inserted into the skin at key points to relieve pain and promote healing. At Richmond Hill, acupuncture can be used to relieve a multitude of health problems, including chronic pain, disease, obesity and addictions such as smoking.

Most people find therapies such as Richmond Hill massage therapy, chiropractic care and acupuncture much less invasive and unpleasant than conventional medical procedures. In many cases, alternative therapies such as these are a viable alternative to drugs, surgery and other forms of medical intervention.

Back and neck pain are the most common reasons why patients seek out chiropractic services. When a person feels fine they tend not to visit a chiropractor because nothing is wrong – right? There is ample evidence out there that clearly proves prevention in health care is what can keep people healthy and maintaining chiropractic care is no different.

Chiropractic care is a method of natural healing and this is because it helps to trigger the body's ability to heal. What mainstream physicians don't recognize is that in the human body is complex and when an ailment strikes complete healing involves looking at the body as a whole.

So how is it that if you feel totally fine you should consider an adjustment? Life has a way of taking all the daily stress factors and builds them up in ways we cannot notice. They impact our body in ways by far greater than we realize. Stress causes muscles to tense up and sometimes we don’t notice just how tense  we are because it becomes ‘the norm’. A natural approach to dealing with life's stresses should include regular chiropractic adjustments.

Our brain communicates through our body's nervous system by sending messages through the spinal column. Our spinal column often takes a beating by sleeping in awkward positions, slouching, and sitting incorrectly. You may not know it at the time but the body feels the pressure of incorrect posture and over time will cause some level of discomfort.  In some cases, people who one day wake up feeling a sore back put it to just that one night of not sleeping right, it could be a build-up of having bad posture.

Routine chiropractic care is a vital component of overall good health. Many people believe if you eat healthy you’ll be fine, yes and no; this is only one component of having good health. To maintain great health, imagine your body is a puzzle. The pieces are what are needed to be “whole”; this includes eating well, laughing, exercise, love, avoiding certain lifestyle choices, regular doctor check-ups, dental check-ups and chiropractic check-ups.

What exactly is an Adjustment

Another term used for an adjustment is a spinal manipulation. This is a primary chiropractic application that involves applying a certain amount of force in order to facilitate normal range of motions and to reduce joint restriction.

This is a procedure done only by chiropractors. They use their hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, rapid force to a spinal joint. An adjustment corrects structural alignment and it improves the body’s overall physical function.

Benefits of an Adjustment

Having regular adjustments can reward you with many significant health benefits.   Some of the benefits include the relief of or management of:

• Migraine and tension headaches
• Stress and tension disorders
• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Chronic injuries
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Arm or wrist pain
• Back and neck problems
• Sciatica
• High blood pressure
• Fibromyalgia
• Knee, foot and ankle pain
• Shoulder or elbow pain
• Sleep disorders

There are many other health ailments that can be treated using chiropractic care. Some of the ailments listed above may need more than just an adjustment as they can be complex.

Actor and former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is a firm believer in regular chiropractic check-ups. About three years ago he said: “We’ve got to let the people know that there is a necessity, not even an option, it’s a necessity to have a chiropractor.  As much as it is a necessity to have a dentist, you should have a chiropractor for the family.” (You can hear him say this at YouTube.)

If you want more information on how chiropractic methods can benefit you and your family be sure to contact Chiro Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill. 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 about our services.

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

Causes of Vertigo

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

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

Major causes of vertigo include:

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

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

Vertigo Symptoms

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

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

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

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

Dealing with or Avoiding Vertigo Triggers

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

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

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

Vertigo and Chiropractic Care

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

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

Treating BPPV

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

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

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has been committed to providing quality health care services to the Greater Toronto Area for over half a decade. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help you come up with a personalized plan to ensure the stretches and exercises will benefit the health of your head, spine and extremities. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Our sleeping position(s) can have a major impact not only on the quality of sleep, but on overall health as well. Poor sleeping positions could potentially cause back and neck pain, impaired circulation, headaches, and even premature wrinkles.

For young adults and healthy people, the sleep position is not as important as when we get older or have medical issues. With age, or those with medical issues, the sleep position can make or break a good night's sleep. In addition to the sleep position, it goes without saying that the mattress quality and choice of pillow is really important to a good nights sleep. Let`s begin with these basics before discussing positions.

Choosing a Mattress

According to the Medical Centre at the University of Rochester, there’s little scientific research that exists on which mattress is best for maintaining a healthy back let alone for those with back issues. In reality, the mattress that's best for you allows you to wake up feeling fully rested and free of pain or soreness. Unfortunately when we shop for mattresses testing them in a showroom can be a different experience from actually sleeping on it permanently.

If you sleep with a partner, the bed size must allow enough space for both individuals to move into a comfortable sleeping position. Mattresses should be replaced about every ten years. If you have a back problem, ask a qualified healthcare provider or physical therapist to recommend the type of mattress that would be best for you.

Pillows

Depending on your sleeping position, multiple pillows can help keep your spine in the proper position. The pillow for your head should support the natural curve of your neck and be comfortable. A pillow that's too high can put your neck into a position that causes muscle strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. Choose a pillow that will keep the neck aligned with the chest and lower back and it should be adjustable to allow you to sleep in different positions. Pillows should be replaced every one to two years.

Proper Body Alignment

Regardless of your sleeping position, try to keep in mind that it is important to keep your ears, shoulders and hips aligned.

If you sleep on your back then you are part of a small minority. Apparently it is estimated that only 8 percent of people sleep on their backs. Sleeping on the back is by far the healthiest option for most people, because it allows the head, neck, and spine to rest in a neutral position. However, it can cause the tongue to block the breathing tube, making it a dangerous position for those who suffer from sleep apnea. This position can also induce heavy snoring. It is recommended that when sleeping on the back, that a small pillow be placed under the back of the knees because this will reduce stress on your spine and support the natural curve in your lower back. If you suffer from osteoarthritis or any other ailment that affects your knees, this will also help to provide you some relief. The pillow for your head should support your head, the natural curve of your neck, and your shoulders.

Although sleeping on the stomach is good for low-to-no-snoring, it’s bad for practically everything else. Seven percent of adults tend to be stomach sleepers, but this can lead to back and neck pain, unless pillows are strategically placed to provide support. Stomach sleepers put pressure on their muscles and joints, possibly leading to numbness, tingling, aches, and irritated nerves. Sleeping on your stomach can create stress on the back because the spine can be put out of position. Placing a thin pillow under the stomach and pelvic area can help to keep the spine in proper alignment. If you sleep on your stomach, a pillow for your head should also be thin, or if you can manage it, sleep without a pillow.

Sleeping on your side (with your torso and legs being relatively straight) helps the spine to remain elongated therefore warding off back and neck pain. A big plus is that you're less likely to snore in this position because it keeps the airway open. For that reason, this is the best choice for those with sleep apnea. Sleeping on the side has one downside, it can lead to wrinkles, because half of your face pushes against a pillow. A firm pillow between the knees will prevent the upper leg from pulling the spine out of alignment if you sleep on your side. It also helps to reduce stress on the hips and lower back. Bring your knees just slightly toward your chest.

Almost fifty percent of people prefer to sleep in the fetal position. If you are pregnant then this is a good position because it improves circulation in your body and in the fetus. This position is also good for snorers; however, a tight fetal position can restrict breathing in the diaphragm. It can leave you feeling a bit sore in the morning, particularly if you have arthritis in your joints or back. Try to prevent these problems by straightening out your body as much as you can, instead of tucking your chin into your chest and pulling your knees up high. You can also reduce strain on your hips by placing a pillow between your knees.

Most important of all, when changing positions in bed try not to twist or bend at the waist but to shift your entire body. Keep your stomach pulled in and tightened and bend your knees toward the chest when rolling over. This will be a tough one to remember considering when we move we are in a slumber-state or fast asleep.

If you simply cannot find that perfect sleeping position and are experiencing sleep-related pain, then a qualified health professional can help.

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.

All living cells from simple organisms to humans depend on catalytic proteins called enzymes in order to grow, divide, and function normally. All living "systems" must have a healthy interaction of enzymes that are either synthesized from components of water, food and other nutritional supplements or from the breakdown products of tissues. Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes that aid in the digestion of protein and it has many health benefits.

Where Is Bromelain Found?

Bromelain is found naturally in the juice and stems of pineapples and as a result is often referred to as the pineapple enzyme. Interestingly, the pineapple belongs to the Bromeliaceae family, from which the enzyme bromelain was named. Although bromelain is found only in pineapples, it is not in high enough doses to act as medicine.

Bromelain Health Benefits

This enzyme has been heralded as an anti-inflammatory agent. Bromelain has brought temporary relief from inflammation caused by muscle soreness, injury, arthritis and even surgery. Some carpal tunnel syndrome patients have stated that they feel a reduction of numbness, aching, and tingling after taking bromelain. There have been many studies and although there appears to be mixed results, bromelain may also reduce bruising and healing time after surgery. Bromelain is often used to reduce inflammation due to sprains, strains, tendinitis and other minor muscle injuries.

Some naturopathic doctors have recommended that their patients take bromelain before and after
surgery and some suggest that pineapple dressings be applied to skin injuries (including wounds) to help reduce inflammation and promote quick healing. (Chiro-Med Rehab Centre recommends that you consult with a health professional before self-administering bromelain.)

Some studies have indicated that bromelain may actually help reduce cough and nasal mucus associated with sinusitis. In addition, it might even relieve inflammation caused by hay fever.

Other Health Benefits:

• Bromelain is well-recognized as a beneficial digestive aid. This mixture of enzymes not only
  benefits better digestion; it can reduce or eliminate heartburn, gastric reflux, nausea, and other ailments related to improper digestion of foods.
• After extended use, bromelain has been noted to reduce blood pressure.
• Heart researchers have discovered that bromelain can reduce thrombus and that it is an
  anticoagulant.
• When topically applied, bromelain lowers swelling and reduces pain associated with insect bites and stings.
• Bromelain has been used in alternative medicine to help reduce hemorrhoids, varicose veins,
  chronic venous insufficiency, as well as other conditions of the veins.
• Many studies indicate that bromelain may prevent blood platelets from clotting.
• The immune system may be boosted. In many people who were studied, cytokines, hormones in the immune system, increased when given bromelain.
• Although not studies on humans yet, animal studies indicate that bromelain possesses anti-
  bacterial and anti-viral effects that may help in relieving symptoms of urinary tract infections,
  bronchitis and pneumonia.

The health professionals at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill are excited about the new
research that is emerging about all the health benefits of bromelain. Bromelain as an anti-inflammatory has helped many people with tendonitis, sore muscles, arthritis and.

If you suffer from an inflammatory health ailment book an appointment with Chiro-Med Rehab Centre and let their professionals put you on the road to good health.