Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Clinic in Richmond Hill

At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre, we are pleased to offer you physiotherapy and chiropractor services, as well as exercise and rehabilitation therapy. If you need help, you can be sure that we will find the right modality specific to your unique needs or condition.

We Accept All Extended Health Care Insurances, Motor Vehicle Accidents And W.S.I.B.

About Chiro-Med

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre is committed to working with patients, providing program-specific health care services so they may achieve optimal health.

Richmond Hill Clinic

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has been committed to providing quality health care services to the inhabitants of Richmond Hill and the surrounding areas.

Services

At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre, we are pleased to offer you physiotherapy and chiropractor services, as well as exercise and rehabilitation therapy. If you need help, you can be sure that we will find the right modality specific to your unique needs or condition.

Assessments

Our assessments are exceptional, utilizing the latest technology and techniques to thoroughly evaluate our patients' conditions. Our team of highly skilled professionals is dedicated to providing accurate and effective diagnoses that help us tailor treatment plans to each patient's unique needs.

In-Home Assessments

In-home assessments are used to evaluate the various tasks a claimant may have at home, and to what extent their injuries will impair their ability to perform these tasks.

Work-Sites Assessments

A work-site assessment is an objective analysis that is used to provide information on the physical demand requirements of the claimant’s pre-accident job.

Functional Abilities Evaluation

A functional abilities evaluation (FAE) is an assessment that utilizes scientific principles and measurements to analyze the abilities of a claimant as relevant to their pre-injury level of function.

Testimonials

Hear what our cherished clients have to say about our services and staff.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"After being involved in a car accident I started being treated at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre and have had an amazing experience at the clinic. Dr. Sanjari and his staff are amazing! They're friendly, helpful, always greet you with a smile and are very knowledgeable about what they do. The treatment i've received has been second to none and the results have significantly improved my quality of life. Thank you Chiro-Med Team."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"After being involved in a car accident I started being treated at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre and have had an amazing experience at the clinic. Dr. Sanjari and his staff are amazing! They're friendly, helpful, always greet you with a smile and are very knowledgeable about what they do."

B.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Excellent facility. Great chiropractor, excellent massage specialists and other treating practitioners. I had the best body massage here. Very friendly and charming staff. Very good in keeping time so can plan out other activities."

M.M.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Since starting with the group at Chiro-Med my flexibility and strength has improved 150%.  I have found the employees at Chiro-Med exceptional."

R.N.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I can not express enough how grateful I am the the staff at Chiro-Med. The quality of service and professionalism is the best that I have encountered. Dr. Sanjari is very knowledgeable and was able to resolve my issues in a few sessions. I wish I had found them sooner as the issues I had were present for over a year, and now it is a pleasure to be once again pain free. Thank you!!"

D.W.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Staff here are the very best you'll ever find.  Friendly, always smiling, helping you out in any way the can. Than there is their work which is so comforting and relaxing. Makes one feel like you can always trust them now and into the future."

D.W.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"This location is very convenient for me, specially the parking space. They are professional, I am so happy with the doctor. They always try to help as much as they can. I can see that they really care about the patient.  The staff are very friendly and helpful.  In general I am so happy and satisfied with the services that I get here."

A.P.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Thanks to Dr. Sanjari my vertigo has been eliminated and my spinal problems, lower back pain and neck pain has been greatly decreased. He is professional, knowledgeable and courtesy, his staff is also courtesy and kind. I recommend Chiro-Med."

L.T.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a great positive and relaxing environment. Staff are professional and friendly. I would recommend that you drop by and check out the services for yourself."

L.T.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Chiro-Med is a very professional and pleasant rehab centre. The customer service is great. The receptionists are always very kind, professional and pleasant. They always great you with a smile and quite understanding."

G.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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

T.D.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Chiro-Med is a very organized and clean facility. The staff is very helpful and polite. It’s definitely the best rehab facility (centre)."

S.B.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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

R.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I had lower back pain during my pregnancy and Dr. Sanjari really helped me. The staff is really nice, kind and friendly. I like the fact that they remind you of your appointments the day ahead."

R.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"People here make you feel like family, always at ease, friendly smiles, easy going, and always there to help you in any way they can."

J. W.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"My experience at Dr.Sanjari’s clinic has been wonderful. I do not feel like I am going to a clinic. Dr. Sanjari and all of his staff are friendly and helpful professionals that make you want to return, especially because you see results. I couldn’t ask for a better medical experience."

E. S.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"The staff is extremely friendly. They are really involved by helping the patient and explaining the best treatment option. Knowing that, patients will get motivated and push themselves to get better."

E. Z.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I got the DonJoy knee brace about a month ago and the difference is night and day. I’m able to walk and bike once again. I saw an immediate change to the stability of my knee, even stairs are not so daunting to face anymore. I’m very happy to be mobile once more. Even dancing all night no longer proves to be a problem. Most difficult part of getting my brace was the colour / pattern choice. I’d highly recommend this type of brace. By the way my knee injury consists of a blown ACL and severely damaged meniscus!"

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I got the DonJoy knee brace about a month ago and the difference is night and day. I’m able to walk and bike once again. I saw an immediate change to the stability of my knee, even stairs are not so daunting to face anymore. I’m very happy to be mobile once more. Even dancing all night no longer proves to be a problem."

S.G.

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Articles

Explore our informative articles which provide valuable insights and information about the industry, technology, and the latest modalities.

Chiropractic: Myth Vs. Fact

Chiropractic methods have proven to be a highly effective way to treat various conditions as well as being preventative. Regardless of the incredible track record of success there are still myths and rumors circulating that have no foundation.  Before we look at a couple of myth and fact scenarios, take a look at what the “Chiropractic for the World Foundation” (based in Calgary) has shown.

They posted on their website averages of malpractice insurance rates therefore providing us with some great insight into the amount of claims against health care practitioners.

  • OB-GYN in Canada – $12,000 per year
  • OB-GYN in Florida – $237,000 per year
  • Dentist – $1500-2000 per year
  • Chiropractor – $681 per year

What is very interesting is that in 2008, Ontario taxpayers spent $112 million to subsidize the medical malpractice fees paid by doctors and doctors themselves paid only $24 million. This means that the Ontario taxpayers paid 83 percent of the cost of malpractice fees.

Myth Vs. Fact

Chiropractic Care Makes People Feel Worse

Those individuals who have just started care may feel worse before feeling better and this is totally normal. However, what is critical is that the full treatment be provided and for the patient not to abandon care. When a person (for example) has had to live for years with a misaligned spine then it is totally natural for the body to adapt to the changes happening. This is no different than starting to exercise after years of inactivity, there will be aches and pains as the body adjusts. There is a transition period and depending on each individual the time frame will vary. The chiropractor who is treating the patient will explain this and let the patient know what to expect.
Being patient is important, but the results are well worth the wait. Chiropractic care does not just relieve symptoms; it helps the body heal the underlying problem so that the patient’s body will function at its optimum level.

Can Chiropractic Care Cause Strokes?

Some people are terrified of seeing a chiropractor because they believe they will have a stroke. Science has shown us that there is no need for concern.

First of all, according to the July 2000 issue of the Chiropractic Journal, the risk of having a stroke in a medical doctor’s office is equal to that of a chiropractor’s office. Strokes can happen anytime, anywhere.

Make no mistake, there have been extensive studies completed that have analyzed the risk of stroke following a chiropractic adjustment. The best estimates show that the likelihood of stroke following an adjustment range lies somewhere between 1 in 15 million people to 1 in 2 million people. This is in the same likelihood as being struck by lightning. What this study also shows is that yes, some people may have a stroke, the chiropractic treatment they received is NOT the cause.

Let’s take these numbers and put them into perspective.

  • The risk of hospitalization (and death) from taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, or Motrin) is about 1 in 1000.
  • The risk of death from cervical spine surgery (neck surgery) is about 1 in 200.
  • The risk of irreversible neurological damage, from the same surgery is 1 in 65.

I Feel Fine. I Don’t Have To Go To A Chiropractor

Health is only a very small portion of how you feel; however, it is mostly about how your body is functioning.  People may feel fine for years yet do not feel cancer, heart disease or diabetes starting. These manifest over a period of many years, meanwhile the person “feels fine.”  Check out this fact: in 60% of cases of cardiovascular disease, the first symptom is either a heart attack or death.

So, you may feel fine however something may be happening with your spine or nervous system. Chiropractic care can assess how the body in functioning, primarily the nervous system. The nervous system controls, regulates, heals , and coordinates the function of your entire body. It only makes sense that is works properly.

Even if you truly feel fine, a chiropractic assessment can identify areas of subluxation (when one or more of the bones of your spine move out of position and create pressure on, or irritate spinal nerves), or decreased brain/body connection. This way, treatment will allow these areas to function properly.

Cracking Knuckles Will Cause Arthritis

There is no research that shows cracking knuckles cause arthritis. Joints need to move in order to function properly and often it is the opposite that causes arthritis, lack of movement.
Arthritis being the end result of knuckle cracking is a myth that inevitably started decades ago by parents who wanted to stop listening to children cracking their knuckles.

If a knuckle “feels” like it must be cracked then there is stiffness that needs to be alleviated. The same can be said for those who crack their backs. There is stiffness or a tight feeling in the spine therefore twisting alleviates that tightness.  (However, if this tight feeling happens frequently, there may be an underlying problem that needs to be attended to.)

If there are any other myths you have heard about chiropractic care please give Chiro-Med Rehab Clinic in Richmond Hill a call. They have a team of professionals that can help you get straight answers to your questions. Chiro-Med has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you with all your chiropractic needs. Call 905-918-0419 or contact Chiro Med online!

Sources:
http://www.chiropracticfortheworld.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_Medical_Protective_Association
Cervical Disc Herniation

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.

How Do I Become a Physiotherapist?

Have you ever thought of becoming a physiotherapist? A physiotherapist is a university-educated health professional and is a highly recognized member in the health profession.

What Services Do Physiotherapists Perform?

Physiotherapists work in several areas that include orthopedics, neurology, sports, pediatrics, cardiorespiratory, seniors’ health as well as other areas.

Those who require the services of a physiotherapist will be required to complete an assessment that may include health history, joint range of motion, evaluation of pain and movement patterns, reflexes, strength, and cardiorespiratory status.

Physiotherapists examine laboratory tests, relevant x-rays, medical records and surgical notes. Based on the assessment the physiotherapist establishes a diagnosis and works in tandem with the patient to develop an individual goal plan and treatment programs.

Treatments that physiotherapists use include electrical modalities such as TENS or ultrasound, manual therapy, acupuncture and therapeutic exercise. A physiotherapist’s job is to promote independence. Emphasis is placed on what the patient can do for themself and on education to prevent future injuries.

Becoming a Physiotherapist In Ontario

Physiotherapists in Ontario must complete a Master’s degree at one of the five Ontario Universities, a Canadian university outside Ontario or if an individual is educated outside of Canada their education is reviewed to ensure that it is substantially equivalent to the content of a Canadian physiotherapy (or physical therapy) program.

The five universities that offer this program (all at the Master level) include:

  • University of Toronto
  • University of Ottawa
  • McMaster University
  • Queen’s University
  • Western University

After university, in order to practice a person must be registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has professional physiotherapists on staff who are registered with the College. If you are in need of physiotherapy 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 services and about becoming a physiotherapist in Ontario.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), is a common injury that occurs in the thigh especially among those who enjoy running, hiking, cycling and those who do squats while weight-lifting. The iliotibial band is a superficial thickening of tissue on the thigh that extends from the outer pelvic area (at the tensor fascia latae muscle) and stretches down to just below the knee.

Causes Of Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome can be caused if an individual has weak hip abductor muscles or a weak/non-firing multifidus muscle. (Although it was several years ago, the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine , July 2000, published results from an interesting study that compared 24 runners who suffered with ITBS with 30 healthy runners. They found that the injured runners had significantly weaker hip abductors than the healthy runners.)

If a person has abnormalities in their leg or feet such as an uneven leg length, high or low arches, bowlegs, or supination of the foot then they may be prone to ITBS.

In addition, if a person runs, then they too may get iliotibial band syndrome if they:

  • Engage in excessive running up and/or down a hill.
  • Run up and down stairs.
  • Run on a banked surface.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome Symptoms

ITBS symptoms range from a somewhat stinging sensation that occurs just above the knee joint (on the outside area where the iliotibial band is located) to tissue swelling (or thickening) where the band moves over the femur. The individual may not feel pain right away during an activity but it may intensify over a period of time. ITBS is typically progressive, starting with tightness and often advancing to the point where the pain is debilitating. When the pain has progressed, it is most severe when the individual walks or runs as the heel strikes the ground. Pain radiates from the knee up the leg to the hip. Pain may also be experienced as the knee flexes, especially when walking up or down stairs.

Pain is a signal to the individual or to the runner that a problem exists. Continuing activities that cause pain is not advised – rest and ice is recommended. If pain persists then this may also be a signal that perhaps there is a biomechanical problem that may lead to further injuries.

ITBS Treatments

Stretching is an important part of a treatment program to help alleviate the pain of ITBS. In addition to stretches that are recommended by a health professional, deep tissue massage along the full length of the iliotibial band will help.

Stretching and massage must be done by a health professional that has the experience in working with ITBS patients. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has worked with many ITBS patients and they know that healing is only half of the treatment.

In addition to the healing phase, there is a very important phase, that being the strengthening of the hip and thigh muscles.  This process is best done under the supervision of a health professional who helps the patient with what specific exercises must be done in order to strengthen muscles, not re-injure them.

Physical therapy may not be enough, because if the cause of ITBS is mechanical, then the patient may require proper shoes or orthotics. Orthotic shoe inserts can help to correct imbalances.

As with any injury, following the direction of your health professional is important in order to facilitate healing, recovery and rebuilding. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get back to activities you once enjoyed. Call 905-918-0419 for more information.

Arthritis in the Knee

There is no simple response to 'what causes arthritis?' Not only are there many factors to take into consideration as to the antecedent, but there are three different types of arthritis that can affect the knees.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis in the knee. This is a progressive condition that slowly wears away joint cartilage. Typically, osteoarthritis is most likely to occur after middle age.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory condition that occurs at any age.

Post-traumatic arthritis develops following a knee injury. It can develop years after a torn meniscus, ligament injury, or knee fracture.

Although not common, it is possible to have more than one type of arthritis at one time. In order to effectively treat the arthritis it is very important to get a proper diagnosis.

Arthritic Pain

Arthritic pain can occur suddenly, but for most people it is more likely to develop slowly. In the beginning there may be some pain in the morning or after a period of inactivity. The knees may hurt as you climb or descend stairs, stand up from a sitting position, or kneel. In some cases the simple act of walking can cause pain.

Some individuals feel pain while in a sitting position. Damp weather or other changes in weather can bring on pain.

Knee pain that interrupts sleep can be a symptom of osteoarthritis.

Inflammation is often associated with arthritis of the knee. The formation of bone spurs (osteophytes) or a build up of fluids in the knee is often the cause of this. Swelling may be more pronounced after a long period of inactivity, such as waking up in the morning. The skin around the knee may appear red or feel warm to the touch. If left undiagnosed and untreated, the inflammation and pain can become chronic and no relief may be found through the use of an over-the counter pills.

Possible Causes of Arthritis:

  • Injury to the knee
  • Infections - such as in the arthritis of Lyme disease
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Physically demanding occupations
  • Over use (or improper use) of the knee via recreational activities

Most types of arthritis are caused by a combination of many factors working together. Some people may be more susceptible to certain arthritic conditions due to their genetic makeup. Additional factors, such as smoking and diet can further increase the risk of arthritis.

Risk Factors for Arthritis:

Certain factors have been shown to be associated with a greater risk of arthritis. Some of these risk factors are modifiable while others are not. Below is a list that encompasses all forms of arthritis, not just arthritis in the knee.

Non-modifiable risk factors:

Age - Usually developing most types of arthritis increases with age.
Gender - most types of arthritis are more common in females.
Genetics - Depending on genetics, there is a higher risk of certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Modifiable risk factors:

Weight - Excess weight can help to cause the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis.
Joint injuries - Damage to a joint can cause the onset of osteoarthritis in that specific joint.
Infection - Many microbial agents can infect joints and trigger various forms of arthritis.
Occupation and Recreation - Some occupations (and recreational activities) involve repetitive knee bending and squatting that are associated with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Foods to Avoid

Sugar is the first item to eliminate from your diet. Refined sugar, white rice, refined flour, processed foods, dairy and alcohol should all be greatly reduced, or better still, eliminated. Consulting with a qualified health professional is important if you have arthritis.

Anti-inflammatory Foods

Garlic - Garlic contains diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that can help fight the pain, inflammation and cartilage damage of arthritis. Fresh, local garlic is much preferred.

Turmeric - Curcumin is the active chemical that blocks the inflammatory cytosine and enzymes in two inflammatory pathways. Turmeric is most effective in combination with black pepper, which helps the body absorb it better. Fresh turmeric is preferred over the powder form.

Ginger - Gingerol and shogaol are the chemicals in ginger that help to prevent and fight inflammation. Always use fresh.

Cayenne - Chili peppers contain natural compounds called capsaicinoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain types of exercise can help maintain your knee function and relieve pain, including water aerobics and strength training. Losing excess weight can help relieve pain by lessening the pressure on the knees.

There are natural remedies that may help as well such as methylsulfonylmethane, a sulfurous compound found in many foods. It is mainly known as MSM and it is important for healthy joints and bones.

Seeking advice from a qualified health professional can help you attain relief and in many cases treat the symptoms of arthritis. Contact us for more information about our OA Knee 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 manage and possibly treat your arthritis. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

Lumbar Disc Herniation

The spine is truly a marvelous set of bones, or more adequately stated, the vertebrae. The entire length of the spine provides protection, support and flexibility for your body. Interestingly, the average sized adult head weighs about 5 kilos or about 11 lbs., so the spine is supporting the equivalent of a bowling bowl.

The vertebra houses the spinal cord that is the nerve centre carrying millions of messages between the body and the brain. Nerves branch out from each vertebrae communicating with the various organs and parts of the body. A nerve irritation from spinal misalignment means that you are likely to feel the results elsewhere, such as sciatica or radiculopathy. Neck problems that affect a cervical nerve root can create symptoms such as pain in the arms and hands; and the lumbar (or lower back) nerve will send pain through the leg and to the foot.

Lumbar disc herniation or radiculopathy is a common problem that occurs when nerve roots are irritated or compressed; many people refer to this as sciatica. Actually, about 90 percent of all disc herniations occur in the lumbar region of the spine.

Causes

Getting older means that the discs in the spine generally lose their flexibility and this means the risk of injury increases. An accident, lifting an item incorrectly, being overweight and even smoking can attribute to disc herniations.

When injury occurs, the soft gel-like material inside the disc ruptures through the outer lining of the cartilage. Usually there is space between the spinal column and the discs but when a lumbar disc herniation applies pressure on a spinal nerve, and then there is trouble.

Symptoms

IIf there is pressure happening in the lumbar region, some symptoms include muscle weakness, numbness and sometimes pain. There can also be tingling. If a lumbar disc herniation puts a lot of pressure on the spinal nerves, then the symptoms will be felt more intense. Common body functions such as urinating, defecating, coughing, sneezing or laughing can heighten the pain of a lumbar disc herniation.

Diagnosing

Diagnosing lumbar disc herniation involves a variety of methods depending on which health professional you choose to visit. A health professional may test your coordination, reflexes, muscle strength and possibly even test your ability to feel sensations. In more severe cases, a spinal MRI, CAT scan or X-ray may be required in order to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment And Management

Your health professional will work with you in order to develop a treatment plan that works best for you. Everyone is unique therefore an individual treatment plan must be catered to take into consideration the severity of the symptoms as well as your activity level.

A lumbar disc herniation can be treated with non-surgical options in about 90 percent of all cases. Some treatment options include the use of heat, the use of cold compresses, or physiotherapy.

Preventing lumbar disc herniation recurrence
can involve simple strategies such as:

  • Maintaining and keeping a healthy weight
  • Good posture at all times
  • Bending the knees when picking up items
  • Avoiding high heels
  • Exercises that help to develop strength in the back muscles and in the abdominal area
  • Reducing or eliminating smoking

Some patients suffering with lumbar disc herniations require surgical intervention but this is only when non-surgical treatments have not provided pain relief; but this is always as a last resort because surgery is invasive.

Chiropractic and physiotherapy treatment options are very effective and for most patients are recommended. 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.

Treating and managing lumbar disc herniations can be successful when you follow the advice of a health professional. There is no need to suffer when there are many simple options available to you.

Tension Headaches

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.

Swimming For Low Back Pain

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!

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Blog

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

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