Migraines are not just a different type of headache; they are a severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation that is generally felt on one side of the head. More often than not nausea, vomiting, as well as extreme sensitivity to light and sound accompanies this pain. These attacks can last for hours or for days and they can be so severe a person is not able to function. In fact, a migraine headache ranks in the top 20 of the world's most disabling conditions affecting people of all ages. Migraines are a neurological disease that can be managed using massage therapy.

Different Types of Migraines

Common Migraine: This is the most prevalent type of migraine; technically this is referred to as a migraine without aura. Almost 11 percent of general population worldwide suffer from this. According to some doctors, this type of migraine will worsen with overuse of over-the-counter headache pills. A common migraine can last for anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. If the headache continues for over 72 hours then it is known as status migrainosus, which requires immediate medical attention.

Classic Migraine: Another term for this migraine is a migraine with aura. People suffering from aura experience dazzling flash of light, hazy spots or zigzag lines in their vision few minutes prior to the onset of the migraine. It is estimated that 15 to 20 percent of those who regularly get migraines have aura symptoms.

Menstrual Migraine: Migraine is a condition that is twice as common in women as men. There is a strong connection between the menstrual cycle and the onset of a migraine. Fluctuating hormones are the antecedent.

Chronic Migraine: This is a severe form of migraine. Defined, this headache occurs for more than 15 days in a one month period for three consecutive months. Over the course of time the headache continues throughout the day with occasional migraine symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Chronic migraine is one of the most disabling forms of migraine.

Abdominal Migraine: With this type of migraine, the person experiences light to severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting during the attack. This is commonly seen in children who have a history of migraine in their family.

There are other types of migraines but this gives you an idea that not all migraines are the same.

Massage Can Help

The science community has done very little research about massage therapy and migraines; however, there have been many independent studies conducted that conclude there is relief for most massage therapy patients. It is encouraging that there is a positive connection between massage and migraine relief. For example, a 2014 published paper in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine shows positive effects of Thai traditional massage. This massage uses stretching, compression, and pulling and rocking motion. This has proven to provide relief in many migraine sufferers.

Depending on the severity and type of migraine the patient is suffering with, a massage therapist may use a variety of different techniques such as:

• Craniosacral therapy: This is a gentle massage focused on the skull and scalp.‍
• Reflexology: Uses pressure and massage on the soles of the feet.‍
• Relaxation massage: This is for stress relief.‍
• Deep Tissue Massage: This massage works well on a tense neck and shoulders providing great results in relieving migraine symptoms.

Massage therapy is not a cure for migraine, but countless migraine patients state it is an indispensable complementary therapy. Some research has even shown that those who receive massage therapy experience a reduction in migraines. This has proven to bring relief to many who seek a reduction or elimination in pharmacological treatment.

Many benefits of massage therapy include an increase in serotonin levels which can help decrease senility to pain, reduce stress levels, and it can help improve sleep. At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre you can be sure you are in the hands of not only a qualified massage therapist, but a therapist who puts your best interests first.

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 a decade. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help you seek relief from migraine pain. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

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Resource:

Chatchawan U, Eungpinichpong W, Sooktho S, Tiamkao S, Yamauchi J. (2014). "Effects of Thai traditional massage on pressure pain threshold and headache intensity in patients with chronic tension-type and migraine headaches." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

There is not a doubt that everyone from time-to-time experiences a “cracking” sound in their feet; this sound can be referred to as joint popping. Joint popping is quite common and there is usually no reason to fear that something is wrong.

As we walk cracking sounds may be heard, but this most likely occurs when the foot is moved beyond its normal range of motion. It is more common to hear cracking when you stretch or roll your foot. Pops and cracks are normal in this case because the motions require the bones and ligaments to stretch. If you have ever gently stretched your toes back and forth then you inevitably have heard cracks coming from your toes.

Causes of Cracking

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There are two main reasons why our joints crack. The bones in our joints are surrounded by synovial fluid which lubricates and prevents bones from rubbing against one another. Synovial fluid contains three gases: oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. These gases form bubbles when the joint capsule is stretched. A popping sound is heard when oxygen bubbles are released. The other reason why joints crack is related to movement of the ligaments or tendons. Ligaments or tendons can tangle or they can excessively tighten and when this happens, you hear a gentle pop as they return to their normal position.

Some cracking and popping scenarios that you need to be wary of include:

Pain - When you experience repeated popping or cracking and it causes you pain then something may be wrong. This is a possible indication that a structural joint problem exists and this needs to be treated.

Locked joint – If the joint becomes locked when it pops or cracks then there is a possibility that something may be caught between joint surfaces. A piece of torn bone or cartilage may be the cause. Once a joint is stuck then it will need to be manipulated to unlock it – and this will cause a pop.

Rupture - If there is a serious rupture of a tendon or ligament then this can create a popping sound. If this happens it can be painful.

Swelling – If you experience any swelling at the site of ‘cracking’ then this needs to be looked at by a qualified health professional.

Arthritis – You may have arthritis in the foot and arthritic joints makes sounds. This is caused by the roughness of the joint surface and the loss of smooth cartilage causing the bone to grind on bone.

(Many people experience pain in the toes and are not sure what is going on. Toe arthritis in caused by inflammation of the toe joints. It tends to attack the big toe more than the other toes. Past injuries or traumas can be reason why arthritis can hit later in life. Other culprits include gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Risk factors include women who frequently wear tight, high-heel shoes, being overweight, increased age and family history of arthritis.)

Bottom line, joint popping usually occurs when a joint is manipulated beyond its normal range of motion yet it is possible for pops and cracks to sound during normal movement of the foot. This should not cause you pain. If it does, and more to the point, if it frequently causes you pain, then you need to seek qualified professional help. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre can help you.

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar Sanjari, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has been committed to providing quality health care services to the Greater Toronto Area for over half a decade. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has qualified professionals who can help evaluate you. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-0419 for more information.

Temporal Mandibular Joint Syndrome is a condition in which the temporal mandibular joint is not functioning as it should. This is a condition that affects thousands of Canadians and this is pain that affects most everything you do with your mouth.

The temporal bone (the bone that forms the sides of the skull) meets the mandible (jaw bone) and where they meet is at the temporal mandibular joint. This joint is used more frequently than most other joints in the body. The temporal mandibular joint works every time we chew, bite down on something, swallow, or talk. When TMJ syndrome strikes, it has a huge impact on a lot of what you do. Other muscles such as those in the upper back, neck and shoulder can have an effect on this joint's functioning.

On each side of the head there is a temporal mandibular joint and they are located right in front of the ear.

Those with TMJ often cannot determine the specific cause but there are some possible causes such as:

• Stress
• Teeth grinding
• A bad bite
• Bad posture
• Chewing too much gum or nail biting

Symptoms Of TMJ Syndrome

Perhaps one of the most common symptom experienced by those with TMJ syndrome are headaches or facial pain that increases when they attempt to speak or eat. Sometimes pain is felt behind the eyes.

The ears may have a sense of feeling clogged or they can have tinnitus (ringing sound). Also, the patient may experience dizziness or the sensation that the facial muscles are tired.

When opening or closing the mouth there can be a clicking sound or popping sound and when chewing or biting, there is discomfort or difficulty to move the jaw. There can also be tenderness in the jaw area or pain.

TMJ Can Cause Physical Damage

TMJ syndrome can cause damage to the jaw, the teeth, and it can alter the alignment of the bones as well or cause damage to the nearby muscles. In fact, misaligned teeth, a change in chewing patterns(braces, dentures or other dental work), damage to the teeth or jaw can trigger TMJ.

Treatment For TMJ Syndrome

Getting a diagnosis sooner than later is important in order to minimize or eliminate the chances for long- term damage. Temporal mandibular joint syndrome can often be treated with gentle therapies. Learning how to gently stretch, relax or massage the muscles around your jaw correctly may be an option that works. Qualified medical professionals help patients with this and provide massage therapy at a Chiro-Med Rehab Centre. Under proper medical care, patients can learn other techniques such as using heat and cold methods in order to help alleviate or eliminate the symptoms. In addition, learning various ways to reduce stress levels can be explored, as well as exercising several times every week.

Pinpointing a cause can help you better maximize treatment. If a specific cause can be determined then chances are TMJ syndrome can be eliminated. For example, if grinding the teeth at night as you sleep is the cause, mouth guards can help alleviate the pressure. (Although this is not recommended as a permanent solution.) Over-the-counter mouth guards are available, but having one that fits your mouth properly is important and most dentists' custom-make mouth guards.

If you think you may have TMJ syndrome, you may want to try this out in addition to seeking the services of a health professional. Set your cell phone to alert you a few times throughout the day. When you get that alert (or alarm) immediately take note of how you are holding your neck, shoulders and teeth. Are your shoulders up at your ears? Are your teeth clenched? Are you hunched over? If you answer yes to any of these, try to make a subconscious choice to be more aware of how your body is positioned.

Indulging yourself with therapeutic massage can allow you to briefly escape from the stress of the outside world.  The soothing atmosphere created by fragrant aromatherapy candles and oils and relaxing music can transport you into another world, even if only for an hour or so.  At Richmond Hill, massage therapy is practiced by qualified professionals who will use relaxation techniques to ease pain and dissolve tension in tired muscles.  Massage therapy has a positive effect on every part of the body, both inside and out, and can even improve your moods and increase your mental awareness.

Massage therapy detoxifies the body by stimulating the lymphatic system to release built-up toxins from the body, helping to prevent the onset of potentially deadly diseases.  It also improves circulation, bringing more oxygen to the tissues and organs, including the brain.  Ample flow of oxygen to the brain increases alertness and cognitive function, and improved circulation in the skin helps keep it retain its elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and giving the skin a healthy, youthful look.

Massaging the muscles relieves pain and tension caused by sports, injuries and daily stress.  The saying that stress can kill is literally true, because stress can cause a fight-or-flight reaction in the body, releasing adrenaline and other chemicals that can build up in the tissues to toxic levels.  Massage therapy releases these chemicals from the muscle tissue so that the body can eliminate them.

Massage can actually combat depression and anxiety, improving your mood and leaving you feeling happy and content.  It stimulates the endocrine system to release chemicals called endorphins that affect your emotional state, so the feeling of well being that you often get following a massage is an actual physical response.  Richmond Hill massage therapy can benefit you in every way – body, mind and soul.

Cosmetic acupuncture is not a replacement for cosmetic surgery; however it is a natural alternative that many individuals feel safer undergoing. In addition to being a safer treatment, it is not as invasive and it costs less. Unlike traditional face lift surgery, acupuncture is painless and has no negative side effects. In addition, there are no risks of disfigurement, no trauma, and no need for recovery. Traditional Chinese acupuncture combined with specialized facial acupuncture can help you look healthy and feel rejuvenated.

Unlike other treatments such as botox injections, cosmetic acupuncture addresses the appearance of the entire face, not just a concentrated area. Cosmetic acupuncture is not a band aid solution, it aims to increase the health of the skin, while firming and brightening the complexion.

Preventative and Corrective Cosmetic Acupuncture

It is believed that by having occasional acupuncture treatments starting in the late twenties, both men and women can help to slow the signs of aging by boosting collagen and improving the health of the skin. For those in their forties or older, cosmetic acupuncture treatments can help to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in brighter and more rejuvenated-looking skin. A fully qualified acupuncturist will help the patient by discussing lifestyle choices and diet because both have an effect on how well our skin ages. An acidic diet, (i.e. coffee), smoking, and alcohol, if used regularly or in excess, will not help anyone in their quest for a healthy, younger look. These choices can contribute to early signs of aging. Skin quality typically reflects the general inner-health status and how well (or not) we age.

In addition to using acupuncture as a possible preventative to aging, there are many corrective possibilities with cosmetic acupuncture. These include:

• Minimize or eliminate fine lines and improve the appearance of deep wrinkles.
• Reduce a double chin.
• Reduce sagging jowls.
• Help to reduce inflammation on face with rosacea and cystic acne.
• Helps to diminish age spots.
• Helps to lift puffy or droopy eyelids.
• Improve muscle tone and dermal contraction.
• Improve hormonal balance to reduce acne.
• Increase blood, energy and lymph circulation.

Does Cosmetic Acupuncture Give Results?

This procedure has been used in China for thousands of years. As far back as the Sung Dynasty (960AD–1270AD), cosmetic acupuncture has been performed on many of the elites in China. For centuries, the Chinese have known that beauty radiates from the inside out which means diet is essential. If the internal body is nourished and the energy and blood are flowing smoothly, cosmetic acupuncture can provide amazing results.

A 1996 study published in The International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture, reported that out of 300 people treated with cosmetic acupuncture, 90 percent saw some improvements with one treatment.

Is Cosmetic Acupuncture for Everyone?

Cosmetic acupuncture has some contraindications. Those with pituitary disorders, heart disorders, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, individuals with pacemakers, bleeding or bruising disorders, and for those who suffer from migraine headaches need to have their doctor approve cosmetic acupuncture. This type of procedure should not be done during pregnancy, a cold or flu, during an allergic attack or during an acute herpes outbreak. Bottom line, a qualified health professional must be consulted first before commencing cosmetic acupuncture.

Remember, our face reflects our vitality and the underlying state of our health. Chinese medicine has been used to help diagnose and correct a number of health imbalances, including the use of acupuncture. Skin tone, discolorations, blemishes, and the location of fine lines provide Chinese medical practitioners valuable health information. It is very important to keep in mind that when seeking out cosmetic acupuncture to correct skin issues, underlying health issues and diet have a huge play in results and maintaining those results. This same is for those seeking out cosmetic surgery; results will not last long if diet and health changes are not made.

Established in 2007 by Dr. Behfar 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 discuss with you the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture. 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.

Shoulder pain is one of the most common physical complaints people have and it's no wonder when you consider how complex this area of the body really is.

Our shoulder is made up of several joints combined with tendons and muscles that permit a good range of motion in the arm. It is also made up of three bones, the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). All these different structures that make up the shoulder can be vulnerable to a variety of problems. A frequent source of pain stems from the rotator cuff.

The arm is kept in the shoulder socket by the rotator cuff. These muscles and tendons form a covering around the head of the upper arm bone and attach it to the shoulder blade. The bursa is a lubricating sac situated between the rotator cuff and the acromion (on top of the shoulder). The bursa allows the rotator cuff tendons to glide freely when the arm moves.

The rotator cuff is part of why shoulder impingement syndrome occurs; when the subacromial bursa and the rotator cuff tendons are compressed between the bones of the shoulder, then pain is the result.

Doing work with the arms stretched above the head can cause shoulder soreness for many people but this does not necessarily cause impingement. Shoulder impingement syndrome is diagnosed when the symptoms persist and normal daily activity becomes a struggle. If not treated early, then chronic impingement can lead to rotator cuff tendonitis, bursitis, and if there is no treatment, thinning or rupture of the rotator cuff tendons can occur.

Causes Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome tends to be common in young athletes although it can strike anyone at any time. People who use their arms over their head (such as swimmers, tennis players, painters) are particularly vulnerable.

Although there is no definitive cause, pain can also develop as the result of a minor injury.

Symptoms Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Pain that originates from the rotator cuff generally causes local swelling and tenderness in the front of the shoulder. Stiffness and or pain will be apparent when lifting the arm. In addition, there can be pain when lowering the arm from an elevated position.

At first the symptoms may be so mild that seeking diagnosis or treatment isn't even thought about. What is felt may be interpreted as something that is irritating and the individual continues to function while 'putting up' with the discomfort or pain.

As this pain persists and this condition progresses there may be pain felt at night, loss of strength and motion, and simple tasks such as zipping up a pair of pants may become difficult.

If the pain suddenly occurs, the shoulder may be tender and all movement may be painful and very limited.

Diagnosis Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Discussing your symptoms with your health professional is important. A health professional will perform a thorough examination of the shoulder. He or she will check to see whether it is tender in any area and to measure the range of motion of your shoulder, a health professional will have you move your arm in several different directions as well as testing your strength.

Getting a proper diagnosis by a health professional that specializes in this field is important because there may be other possibilities such as a pinched nerve. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has assisted countless individuals obtain a proper diagnosis and has provided treatment geared specific to each individual.

Treatment Of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

There are several treatment options available at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre. Nonsurgical and noninvasive treatments are prescribed to Chiro-Med patients and the professionals ensure that each person is treated as an individual.

In addition to treatment there is rehabilitation to make sure that everything possible is being completed to thwart off re-occurrences.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a proven record of providing quality care and helping people recover from shoulder impingement syndrome.

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

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

What is a Good Sitting Posture?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is a Good Standing Posture?

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

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

Keeping Fit

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

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

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

Many of us have either experienced or know an individual who has restless leg syndrome (RLS). This is a condition in which the individual experiences an anxious feeling (sometimes subconsciously) and the urge to rapidly tap their foot or shake the leg occurs. Although this is not necessarily a painful condition it can impede an individual’s quality of life.

“Jimmy legs” is a term some people may be more familiar with when describing restless leg syndrome. This condition can range from mild to intolerable and if this is not treated then it can lead to sleep deprivation, stress and decreased alertness in the daytime. If left untreated, over a period of time RLS can become disabling.

Medical doctors tend to approach restless leg syndrome as it would insomnia as it disturbs sleep. Although prescription medication may enable sleeping, it does not address the cause of the anxiety. RLS is a disorder that is part of the nervous system that controls the movement of the leg muscles. Turning to chiropractic care means that the cause is determined and treated accordingly. The nerves that innervate the legs are the fattest and the longest in the body therefore making chiropractic care the only logical choice when seeking help.

Restless Leg Symptoms

RLS symptoms are brought on while an individual rests either sitting or lying down. The more comfortable the person becomes, the more likely the symptoms will occur. Oddly enough, the reverse is also true, when a person becomes uncomfortable RLS sets in.

Most patients report that there is often an uncomfortable sensation that occurs in the legs such as tingling, throbbing, itching, gnawing, burning and mild pain. These and other unpleasant sensations occur in the calves, thighs or feet and they generally occur while sitting or lying down. Some individuals state that there are no words to describe some of the sensations they feel.
It is common for a variety of these symptoms to fluctuate in severity and some individuals say that there are periods of times in which the symptoms disappear.

Although an RLS patient may describe a ‘cramping’ sensation it is important to determine that it is not a ‘real’ cramp which is a definite knotting of the muscle. However, restless leg syndrome can include severe local muscle pain.

Cause Of Restless Leg Syndrome

In most cases there are no specific causes for RLS. For some individuals, when RLS starts early in life, there is a heredity link.

Some women experience RLS during pregnancy, especially in the final trimester. Usually the symptoms disappear after giving birth.

Restless leg syndrome is not related to serious underlying medical conditions however it does accompany other medical conditions including peripheral neuropathy. This is when there is damage to the nerves in your feet and hands due to chronic diseases. Also, if a person has an iron deficiency RLS may occur (or worsen if RLS is already present). It is very important to never just start taking iron supplements until iron levels have been tested first.

RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME TREATMENT

Chiropractic treatment is a safe way to treat RLS. A chiropractor will extensively examine the patient which includes asking about medical history. A range of motion exercise test determines how well the skeletal system functions and the results are taken into consideration for treatment. In some cases an x-ray may be required to see if there are any skeletal injuries or impairments.

A spinal manipulation (or adjustment) may be done to help relieve stress that is on the joints and muscles in the leg.  Many patients find that after routine adjustments there is relief.

Other treatment options may include leg stretches, electro-micro current therapy and exercises that strengthen the pelvis, lumbo-sacral angle and the intervertebral discs. Treatment may also include the patient implementing a regular walking regimen to help.

For more information about treatment options to seek relief from restless leg syndrome, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can help. 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.