Winter weather can bring potentially serious injuries if we are not careful. We should always be aware of our surroundings no matter the weather, but in winter it is more important to be aware and take precautions. Needless to say, avoiding winter injuries can save you from lost time at work or from recreational pleasures.

Slip-and-Fall Injuries

Winter can be a beautiful time of year but it presents challenges, especially for those over 40 years of age. Most individuals reach their peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 30. By the time we reach 40, many of us slowly begin to lose bone mass; weakened bones are in danger of breaking if a fall occurs.

Fresh air and spectacular snowscapes can make it tempting for many to enjoy a winter walk. For many individuals walk their dog once or twice a day, regardless of conditions, because it is not an option. Freezing temperatures and hidden icy patches present hazards. Hip fractures, head injuries, and wrist fractures often occur during winter storms. When trying to force the body to stop from an imminent fall, smaller injuries can occur such as bruising, sprained ankles, and pulled muscles.

Across Ontario, every day, dozens of people visit an emergency department for injuries from a fall involving ice and snow, especially older adults.

Tips to Avoid Falls:

• Do not be in a rush; take slower and shorter steps.
• Be sure you are wearing proper winter footwear with excellent quality rubber tread for traction.
• Always be aware of the conditions of what you are walking on, even ice can form on fields.
• Be especially careful walking on the side of the road during and after a storm. Sidewalks covered with plowed snow, and if conditions include poor visibility, can potentially create an accident scenario in which you get hit. If moving vehicles are close by and you are walking on a slippery surface then stop. This will eliminate the potential of you falling into harms way.

Snow Shoveling

Shoveling snow poses another serious injury risk throughout the winter season. Soft tissue injuries of ligaments and muscles, especially in the lower back, are common from the heavy lifting, bending and twisting.

Those with heart trouble know that the mere act of walking in heavy snow can put a significant strain on the heart, let alone shoveling it. In fact, those over the age of 55 are four times more likely to experience a heart problem while snow shoveling.

Do not think that a snow blower is the answer to snow shoveling safely. Snow blower injuries are more common than many realize because people reach in to un-jam snow blowers resulting in the loss of fingers and in some cases, a hand. Always turn the machine off and use a broom handle or another tool to clear a stuck snow blower.

As for snow shoveling, lessen your chances of getting hurt while shoveling snow. Be sure to:

• Pace yourself and if need be take frequent breaks.
• Wear proper winter boots.
• Push snow as opposed to lifting. Avoid twisting and tossing snow over the shoulders.
• Listen to your body and stop if you get short of breath, start sweating profusely, or experience chest pain.

There is more information on our website: Snow Shoveling Safely; be sure to give it a read.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It happens, someone is standing at a corner waiting to cross the street, a car hits a patch of ice causing it to swerve into the innocent bystander. Don`t be that person. When walking outside, even waiting at a bus stop, always be aware of your surroundings. Those who keep their head down, and are wearing ear buds focusing on their cell phone will have a greater chance at being that person who gets hit as opposed to the person who is paying attention and can jump to safety.

Frost Bite and Hypothermia

Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature less than 35 degrees C and results from prolonged exposure to cold environment, drugs, and underlying pathological conditions. In Canada, there are 8,000 deaths a year due to hypothermia. In fact, cold temperatures kill about 20 times as many people worldwide as hot temperatures do. This was an issue addressed by CBC in a May 2015 article titled: Cold deemed deadlier than heat when it comes to weather deaths.

Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. It is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and chin. Skin that is exposed in cold, windy weather is most vulnerable; however, it can occur on parts of our body that is covered, but not sufficiently.

Generally, when you start shivering, it’s your body telling you it’s time to seek warmth. Being proactive by dressing in warm, dry layers, and wearing a hat and gloves is advisable.

If you are driving, always keep extra warm clothes in your vehicle. If you wear shoes, be sure to have boots in the car. Accidents happen and you could literally be left out in the cold for a long period of time. If you are not prepared then you may end up with more troubles than just the accident itself.

CHIRO-MED REHAB CENTRE: REMINDERS

While shoveling, in the event you start to feel heaviness or discomfort in the arms, neck or chest areas, stop shoveling immediately. If it does not subside right away, call 911. Other signs of heart attack to be aware of include a prolonged shortness of breath, dizziness, faintness, excessive sweating, or if you begin to vomit.

Do not work yourself to the point of exhaustion because this contributes to injury, hypothermia and to possible frostbite.

Should you sustain any soft tissue injury while shoveling – stop shoveling right away! If you cannot move or are in serious pain, call 911. If the injury isn’t as severe, then see a health professional as soon as possible. Should there be any inflammation, apply ice right away.

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 provide chiropractic and physiotherapy to help with winter injuries. 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.

Cerebral spinal fluid (also referred to as cerebrospinal fluid CSF) is clear fluid produced by dialysis in the choroid plexus (located in the brain). CSF is a critical component in creating a cushion to protect our brain and our central nervous system. Cerebrospinal fluid is always being produced and should there be any disruption in the production or in the protection of the brain and central nervous system then this means trouble.

Other CSF Functions

Cerebrospinal fluid acts as a chemical buffer giving us immunological protection as well as means for transporting nutrients, metabolic wastes and toxic substances. This fluid provides buoyancy to soft neural tissues which is critical in preventing the brain tissue from deforming from its own weight.

Recent research indicates that cerebrospinal fluid has a major influence on the body's homeostatic balance of acidity and alkalinity. There is also scientific research that indicates that the cerebrospinal fluid could act as a chelating agent by which it removes metallic toxins from the spinal cord and the brain providing protection against free radical oxidation.

Disorders of the CSF flow can affect the distribution neurotransmitters, disrupt the blood flow around the brain, and it can affect normal brain function.

Our bodies produce about one cup of CSF every day because it continuously replaces CSF as it is absorbed. There is a delicate balance between what is absorbed and what is produced and when the balance is off then hydrocephalus occurs. The most common factor that can cause this disruption is an obstruction. If left untreated hydrocephalus can cause cysts, infections, and brain tumors.

CSF Stasis

When the CSF flow becomes stagnant, this is a condition referred to as CSF stasis. CSF stasis is associated with several conditions such as vertebral subluxation complex (or joint fixation). (This is a term applied to a vertebra that has lost its regular position in relation to the vertebrae beside it. Eventually the wear and tear on the surrounding discs, ligaments, spinal muscles, or other spinal tissue causes pain, inflammation, tenderness and there is a decrease in spinal mobility.

CSF stasis also reduces cranial rhythmic impulses and can restrict respiratory function. Reduced levels of cerebrospinal fluid through key areas of the brain is a factor involved in degenerative disease.

Sedentary lifestyles and bad posture are culprits in creating a suitable environment for CSF stasis. A sedentary lifestyle creates poor core strength and muscle imbalances that lead to chronic subluxation patterns throughout the spine.

Improving CSF Flow

A healthy CSF flow depends on minimizing subluxation through corrective chiropractic techniques and specific spinal exercises including yoga.
If there is any ligamentous scar tissue along the pathway in which there is CSF then chiropractic adjustments will help to release this tissue. This allows for better neurological function. Also, chiropractic adjustments help to reinforce healthy soft tissue formation in the subluxated regions. This new healthy tissue allows these areas to have normal, healthy motion.

Chiropractic adjustments will dramatically increase CSF flow to help the blood flow properly around the brain, and to ensure proper distribution of neurotransmitters.
Balance board exercises can help restore and reinforce healthy sacral movement and initiate proper CSF flow. Balance boards have a very small centre of gravity that creates a challenge to the brain's coordinating centers resulting in increased receptor information allowing a greater degree of range of motion and an increased CSF pumping effect.

Repetitive cervical traction exercises put motion into the occipital region of the brain (rearmost portion of the skull). This motion helps to create a pressure change, which assists in the facilitation of the cerebrospinal fluid pump. This allows cleaner CSF to flow into the brain stem region providing fresh oxygen and nutrition.
Chiropractic adjustments unlock stiff areas of the spine and encourages growth of healthy soft tissue. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, specialized exercises will help to restore healthy CSF movement in the central nervous system. As part of your chiropractic treatment plan these exercises and adjustments are specifically designed for you so that your CSF flow returns to normal. In return there will be increased oxygen and nutrient-rich fluid reaching your brain stem and improving your overall health.

If you have concerns about the cerebrospinal fluid in your body not flowing at the rate it should be please give Chiro-Med Rehab Centre a call.

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 attain maximum health. 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.

We are all aware that snow shoveling is hard work, and the more snow there is and the "wetter" it is, shoveling becomes extremely challenging. There's no shortage of emergency room statistics that show us, shoveling can cause cardiac arrest if a person is not careful. What emergency rooms do not show are the enormous numbers of injuries that occur. Shoveling snow should be treated in the same manner as if you were to engage in any athletic or exercise program in order to protect yourself.

In January 2011, the results of a seventeen-year study were published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine and the results were astounding. This study reveals that the most common injury when removing snow (either with a shovel or by using a snow blower) is to the soft tissue; the majority of all injuries are soft tissue injuries such as damage to muscles, ligaments and tendons. The lower back was the most frequently injured, followed by the arms and the hands. Twenty percent of injuries were directly related to slipping or falling as a result of being outside to snow hoveling and shockingly, 15 percent of injuries were the result of being struck by a snow shovel.

Snow shoveling safety needs to be taken seriously in order to avoid becoming a statistic. Here are some tips to help you minimize, if not eliminate any chance of sustaining an injury:

• First and most important, if you have already had a heart attack or have a history of heart disease, have high blood pressure or have high cholesterol levels, do not attempt shoveling unless your doctor approves.
• Drink lots of water before starting. Have some water available because shoveling is physical exercise and avoiding dehydration is important. (When you feel thirsty, your body has already started to dehydrate.)
• Wear appropriate footwear.
• Shovel at least one hour after eating and if you are a smoker, avoid doing so before or during shoveling.
• Warm up first by stretching your shoulders, arms, hands, legs and back.
• Start slow and it is advisable to work at a slow pace – don't be in a hurry because this is when an injury is most likely to occur.
• Shovel early in a snowfall, and often if need be – better that than waiting for all 30 cm of wet heavy snow to fall!
• Take breaks.

Snow Shoveling Techniques:

• Pushing the snow rather than lifting it is best.
• When shoveling deep snow, shovel it in small amounts.
• If you know the ground is icy or slippery, toss down some kitty litter, sand, salt or anything else that is safe to use for the ground that will provide you with traction.
• Lift properly by – keeping feet at hip width – hold the shovel close to your body – space your hands apart to increase your leveraging – tighten up your abdominal muscles while lifting – avoid twisting when lifting – walk to dump the snow; do not toss – and perhaps the most important – bend at your knees not your back!

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre: Reminders

In the event you start to feel heaviness or discomfort in the arms, neck or chest areas, stop shoveling immediately. If it does not subside right away, call 911. Other signs of heart attack to be aware of include a prolonged shortness of breath, dizziness, faintness, excessive sweating, or if you begin to vomit.

Do not work yourself to the point of exhaustion because this contributes to injury, hypothermia and to possible frostbite.

Should you sustain any soft tissue injury while shoveling – stop shoveling right away! If you cannot move or are in serious pain, call 911. If the injury isn't as severe, then see a health professional as soon as possible. Should there be any inflammation, apply ice right away.

Snow Shoveling Benefits

The good news about safely shoveling snow is that fifteen minutes of shoveling counts as a moderate physical workout. Although recommendations vary among agencies, between (minimum) 30-60 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly is essential to good health. If winter brings us lots of snow, then you get lots of fresh air and exercise – without paying for a gym membership.

More good news! Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has worked with countless patients who have sustained injuries due to snow shoveling. Our Rehab Centre has fully qualified professionals that will work with you to minimize the pain and to help get you back to your usual self. Hopefully you won't get injured this winter, but in the unfortunate event you do, call us right away.

Metatarsalgia is a condition that affects the ball of your foot causing pain and inflammation. This condition is not considered serious but the pain can sideline an individual from their normal activities. Metatarsalgia is considered a common overuse injury that originates in the metatarsal region of the foot.

Causes Of Metatarsalgia

There are a few known causes of metatarsalgia. This “ball-of-foot” pain is experienced among those who have improper footwear, especially women. This is because women wear shoes that are not designed for comfort; high heels and shoes that narrow in the toe area inhibits a healthy walking process and leads to extreme discomfort in the forefront of the foot.

Also, those who participate in high impact activities without proper footwear and/or orthotics tend to suffer with metatarsalgia. In addition, as we grow older, the natural “padding” in our feet tends to thin out, making us more susceptible to pain in the ball-of-the-foot area.

Any person, regardless of age may experience metatarsalgia if they are physically active and participate in activities that involve running and or jumping.

Symptoms Of Metatarsalgia

Those who have metatarsalgia usually experience a sharp, burning pain on the ball of the foot area (behind the toes). This pain usually worsens when the individual stands, walks or runs and also when the affected foot is flexed. Resting often can sometimes ease the pain. Some people who have metatarsalgia also experience toe numbness. Although these symptoms tend to manifest abruptly, it usually takes weeks for metatarsalgia to develop.

Prevention Of Metatarsalgia

Preventing metatarsalgia is easy so long as you are aware of the causes. Anyone who engages in running, jumping, or aerobic exercises must have proper footwear. Everyday proper footwear is essential in order to keep your feet in good shape. salgia if they are physically active and participate in activities that involve running and or jumping.

Metatarsalgia Treatment

First of all it is important to mention that getting a proper diagnosis is essential in order to treat metatarsalgia effectively. Only once properly diagnosed can a treatment plan be implemented.

Depending on the severity, metatarsalgia treatment can be as simple as applying ice packs to the affected area several times. Rest is another simple but effective way to treat metatarsalgia. Keeping stress off the balls of the feet is important in order to reduce inflammation and pain.

Athletes who need to still keep active are usually advised to temporarily switch to low impact exercises such as swimming. Even if some usual activities are maintained, no treatment will effectively work and the injury will inevitably worsen.

Causes Of Metatarsalgia

There are a few known causes of metatarsalgia. This “ball-of-foot” pain is experienced among those who have improper footwear, especially women. This is because women wear shoes that are not designed for comfort; high heels and shoes that narrow in the toe area inhibits a healthy walking process and leads to extreme discomfort in the forefront of the foot.

Also, those who participate in high impact activities without proper footwear and/or orthotics tend to suffer with metatarsalgia. In addition, as we grow older, the natural “padding” in our feet tends to thin out, making us more susceptible to pain in the ball-of-the-foot area.

Any person, regardless of age may experience metatarsalgia if they are physically active and participate in activities that involve running and or jumping.

Health professionals at Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill find that many of their patients have a great recovery rate when they are prescribed custom orthotics to minimize pressure. Although there are over-the-counter shock-absorbing insoles, these are designed with a “one size fits all” template. There is no “one-size fits all” when it comes to proper foot support.

Orthotics from Chiro-Med Rehab Centre are medical inserts that comfortably fit into footwear, and are custom designed to support and improve the functioning of feet. Regardless of where you go, work, school, or recreation activities, orthotics should be worn at all times – even at home. Orthotic insoles work like prescription eye-glasses; they can only work when they are being worn. During the first couple of weeks while wearing custom orthotics, there may be a slight discomfort in the arches, feet, and legs. This is normal, and is actually an indication that your custom orthotics are working.

Only in the absolute most severe cases and when all other treatment avenues have been explored is surgery suggested. Surgery involves the realignment of the metatarsal bones.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get back activities you once enjoyed – pain free!
Call 905-918-0419 for more information.

Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome can experience anything from tingling, to burning, or numbness in the hand and fingers, especially in the area of the thumb and first two fingers.  This is caused by the nerves getting pinched.  In some cases, strength and mobility in the affected hand can be significantly reduced as well.

If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can become a chronic condition that makes it difficult for those who need to use the affected hand; they will experience significant pain levels.  Also, if left untreated, medical conditions can occur such as bone fractures and arthritis of the wrist.

Some U.S. studies state that this ‘tennis elbow of the wrist’ is the cause for the highest number of work days lost.

Graston Technique® Treatment

There are many different treatment options available to those who have carpal tunnel syndrome however, there are a growing number of individuals who seek a natural therapy. Graston Technique® treatment has rapidly become the treatment of choice for health care practitioners and for patients.

Graston Technique^® treatment is a modification of the more traditional hands-on approach. This treatment uses specially-designed instruments that are hand held by the health care therapist. The therapist uses a specific instrument to a targeted area to introduce a controlled amount of microtrauma so that injured tissue (or in other injuries scar tissue) can experience a small amount of inflammation and this augments the healing process. Not only is this beneficial for the patient, the use of these instruments means that the therapist’s hands does not experience the level stress that he or she would without using Graston Technique^® instruments.

Graston Technique® Benefits Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The Graston Technique^® has proven to help in the healing of patients with many cumulative trauma disorders including carpal tunnel syndrome. Some health professionals offer therapies such as physiotherapy and splinting, and in some cases this is effective. When a health professional uses The Graston Technique^® in combination with suggested exercises for the injured hand then recovery time is generally accelerated. When this technique is used the fully-trained therapist is able to penetrate the area deeper than a hand therefore providing better results in less time. Many carpal tunnel syndrome patients agree that this method of treatment works well and in many cases has saved carpal tunnel syndrome sufferers from having surgery.

If you suffer with carpal tunnel syndrome do not rule out this type of rehabilitation therapy. This may be just what you need to avert surgery. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can work with you to determine what your best options are. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get on the road to recovery. Visit Chiro-Med online or call 905-918-0419 for more information on the Graston Technique^®.

Winter sports are enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts and yet every winter, there are many avoidable sports injuries, especially injuries to the ankle. Ankle injuries include tendon injuries, ligament sprains, dislocation and fractures. Let’s explore some of the most common winter sports ankle injuries.

Snowboarding

Beginner snowboarders are those who are the most frequently injured, in fact, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), almost one quarter of all injuries occur the first time the person tries snowboarding. After the wrist, the ankle is the most frequently injured body part. Studies by the AAFP indicate that soft boots give snowboarders almost twice the risk of injury compared to hard boots.

There is a type of fracture that occurs in this sport referred to as the snowboarder’s ankle. This is a fracture of the lateral process of the talus and this is difficult to see on a standard x-ray. This fracture can affect almost 15 percent of snowboarding ankle injuries that require medical attention.

Snowboarding Ankle Injury Prevention: Getting out there and having fun is important, but it’s really important to know your limits. Studies show first time snowboarders are at greater risk for injury, so regardless of age, taking it easy is important and having a lesson or two from snowboarding professionals is a great strategy in preventing injury.

Ice Skating

According to the Ontario Injury Compass, every year more than 5,000 people find themselves in an emergency department due to an ice skating injury. The good news is that about 94 percent of these people do not require being admitted. Lower limb injuries, including the ankle, occur to 21 percent of those injured.

Ice Skating Ankle Injury Prevention: What is very important is to have a pair of skates that fit properly. Proper ankle support is crucial when ice skating otherwise the window to possible injury is opened. While skating, the skating gait and your posture is important; without good posture and a balanced gait, undue stress is being applied to the ankles as well as other areas of the body. Be aware of your surroundings; watch for obstacles and other people, especially unsupervised children as their movement can be unpredictable therefore causing you to move in such a way that causes you an injury. Knowing and staying within your limits is a good rule to follow in order to prevent injury.

Skiing

The good news is that with the development of improved ski equipment, skiing techniques, and slope grooming, incidents of ankle injuries has decreased. Ankle fractures, achilles tendon ruptures, tendon dislocations and ankle sprains can all occur should a skiing accident occur. Cross country skiers are more susceptible to ankle injuries due to the nature of the equipment.

Skiing Ankle Injury Prevention: Downhill or cross country skiers need to ensure their equipment is always in good condition and properly sized. Bindings need to be tested every year before hitting the slopes or the trails. Always make sure proper sunglasses or goggles are used otherwise a moment of vision impairment can result in an accident. If you are a cross country skier tempted to go down hills that are dangerous, try not to, especially in forested areas. As with snowboarding or ice skating, be aware and stay within your limits, especially if the slopes or trails are busy.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre suggests that anyone who engages in these or other athletic activities to stretch your muscles before starting. There is a lot of conflicting research out there suggesting that stretching may not prevent injury; yet some research suggests that although it may not prevent an injury, a stretched muscle can better recover from injury. Regardless, stretching is a good habit to get into before any activity. Hopefully your winter activities bring you lots of enjoyment; however, should you unfortunately succumb to an injury, Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can get you back on the slopes, the trails or on the ice before you know it!

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.

Our joints are busy working when we move about and perform our daily activities. Those who work in environments in which they must use their joints on a constant basis (i.e. construction) or those who engage in sports activities know how easy it can be to sustain an injury, and re-injure.

Preventing Injuries

Preventing injuries is really important. Far too many people think they will heal from their injury and life carries on. Yes and no. The immediate healing may appear to be fine however, what usually happens later in life is a cause for concern.

Aside from age, weight and heredity, injury to the knees or ankles is one of the biggest factors in developing osteoarthritis (OA) later in life. This is the most common type of arthritis, which involves the inflammation and breakdown of cartilage in the joints and the numbers of those who are afflicted with OA are skyrocketing.

Muscle strength across the joints (and the spine) stabilizes and is very important in helping to prevent injuries. Elliptical machines, stationary bikes, rowing machines, walking, and swimming are examples of low-impact cardio activities that will provide muscle strengthening.

If your job or sport activity requires a lot of movement then be sure to do some warm up activities before starting and always remember to do some cool down stretches at the end.

Environmental factors such as bumpy, hard and uneven surfaces often cause injuries, particularly to the ankle. Avoiding these environments or being careful in these areas is important.

Why Braces?

Braces help support and promote proper function and movement, either in preventing or furthering damage to a susceptible area of your body. Sprains, muscle strain, or tendon tears should always be taken seriously and the affected area should have brace support to prevent further injury even in basic daily activities. In some cases even nerve damage can be aided with the help of braces.

The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has studied the effects of wearing braces as a form of prevention. They studied high school basketball players who wore stabilizing lace-up ankle braces and found that 68 percent were less likely to suffer an ankle injury than the athletes who did not wear braces.

Another study, also by University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, found similar results. Both studies involved randomized, controlled trials of large groups of high school basketball and football players. In both studies, there was a significant protective benefit in wearing the ankle brace, whether or not the athlete had experienced a previous sprain.

Interestingly, researchers found no negative effects of preventative bracing.

Braces for Joints at High Risk of Injury

Back

A back brace is designed to protect the lower back and reduce stress on the joints and muscles of the lower back during strenuous activities. This type of brace restricts end-of-range spinal movements and provides stability and support. Back braces are not usually used as a preventative; they are generally beneficial for people who are suffering from lower back pain or injury, especially those who have chronic back pain or the potential to re-aggravate a prior injury. A back brace can also used to keep the area warm which helps to reduce the risk of sprains and strains.

Thumb

Many people find that a thumb brace is great for arthritis as it can support, stabilize, and relieve some of the pain. Thumbs perform an incredible amount of activity on any given day and an arthritic thumb or an injured thumb affects the ability to execute daily tasks. Thumb braces are designed to give support by keeping them in the correct position and taking pressure off of damaged areas. These braces are ideal for mild to moderate injuries involving the wrist and thumb including dequarvains, synovitis, or arthritis.

Wrist

A wrist brace can help to immobilize the area or simply provide flexible support for those suffering from an injury, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. The level of flexibility of a wrist brace is geared toward the condition in which the person is suffering.

Elbow

When the elbow is pushed beyond the normal limit, injury can occur. Elbow braces can be used to treat common injuries, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, epicondylitis and arthritis joint pain. If lifting heavy weight on the job or working out, having an elbow brace can help in reducing the chance of injury.

Knees

Knees endure more strain than most other joints because they support the body's weight. They are used in supporting frequent changes of direction as well as in sudden impacts. Knee braces are commonly used as supports for those who are in sports and in strenuous jobs that require a lot of stress on the knees. For those who experience pain, they are used to help reduce pain, provide stability and prevent re-injury. A brace can be additional support for mild sprains and strains of the muscles and ligament within and surrounding the knee.

Ankle

An ankle brace can offer mild support to weak or injured ankles and is ideal for daily use after a mild ankle sprain or strain. These braces stabilize, support and limit range-of-motion of the ankle joint. For those who are prone to ankle injuries, braces are used to immobilize injured ankles or provide joint protection to injuries. Some people use a brace to help relieve general heel pain, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs and to treat Achilles tendon issues. There are also many braces that offer protective support by promoting lateral and medial stability.

Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a variety of braces that can help you. Chiro-Med carries a large selection of braces including the innovative Custom DonJoy knee brace and the DonJoy ankle brace.

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 in determining what brace is best for you. We have clinics located in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, call 905-918-0419 or 905-235-2620 for more information.

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References:

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health