Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Clinic in Richmond Hill

Optimum joint mobility is the result of supple, healthy joint tissue and joint elasticity. Collagen is a vital component of tissue, bones and cartilage required for healthy joints. Research suggests that boosting collagen intake can contribute to joint health, but can it actually repair? There is no shortage of articles on the Internet that make claims one way or the other, but rarely do they mention what types of collagen there are and what their specific functions are. Yes, collagen can assist in joint repair; but knowing what specific collagen, how it is produced, and other therapies you must do is the key in achieving results.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is the fundamental structural protein that forms connective tissue; it is a vital component of the joints, bones, muscles, tendons and skin. Essential to the formation of connective tissue, it is the highest source of protein found in the body. Collagen contains specific vital amino acids including arginine, proline, glycine and hydroxproline.

The human anatomy contains and utilises over 20 variants of collagen amino acids, however there are three main types of collagen that comprise 80 to 90% of the body.

Different Types of Collagen Explained

First, all three types of collagen decrease with age. The knees generally take the brunt of this loss earlier in life in those who are regularly engaged in vigorous physical active and are not keeping up with the levels of collagen regeneration required for recovery.

There are actually 28 different types of collagen with three being the main types. These three types of collagen are simply named I, II, and III. Collagen type II is the most significant for joint health. Of the three, collagen type II is believed to be most effective in targeting and enhancing joint cell health.

Collagen Type I

This collagen is in our skin, artery walls, bones, tendons and in scar tissue. Type I is the most abundantly found in the body. It is a fibrillar type collagen, and inevitably has been the best investigated collagen.

Collagen Type II

This collagen is found in our cartilage and respiratory tubes. Type II is a fibrillar collagen, and the main component of cartilage. This collagen constitutes 95% of the collagens and approximately 60% of dry weight. Mutations in type II collagen result in several types of chondrodysplasia, leading to premature osteoarthritis.

Collagen Type III

This collagen is predominantly found in blood vessels. Type III collagen is a fibrillar collagen which is secreted by fibroblasts and other mesenchymal cell types. This makes it a huge factor in various inflammation-associated pathologies such as viral and non-viral liver diseases, kidney fibrosis, lung injury, and vascular disorders.

In order for collagen to help repair joints Type II is the collagen people need to have the most of in order to attain any level of relief. Having supplements will help but the body also needs to be able to produce collagen as well. Eating foods high in lysine and arginine will help collagen production. Getting both of these amino acids from food is important.

Collagen and Vegetarian Diets

A vegetarian diet is known to prevent some diseases but it may influence the balance of carbohydrate and fat metabolism as well as collagen synthesis. Research published at Karger Journals in Switzerland, (Vegetarian diet affects genes of oxidative metabolism and collagen synthesis), indicates that there is reduced collagen synthesis in vegetarians, and this could also play a role in the aging process.

However, all is not lost for those adhering to a vegetarian diet. There are some foods that can help but seeking the advice from a qualified health practitioner is strongly advised.

Without Vitamin C There Is No Collagen

Vitamin C intake is critical to collagen production. There is a plethora of research that indicates many people are not getting enough vitamin C to maintain proper health; further to that, it has been argued that the recommended daily values fall short of what we really need.

Vitamin C deficiency, although uncommon in North America, results in our bones being unable to properly manufacture collagen and its connective tissues. The body literally deteriorates as collagen is broken down and not replaced. This results in joints wearing down as tendons weaken.

Denatured vs Undenatured Collagen

Denatured collagen is hydrolyzed. Most of the type II collagen that is derived from the sternum of chickens is denatured or hydrolyzed. This means that high heat and possibly even chemicals have been used to process it. These processes fundamentally alter the molecular structure of the protein, rendering the collagen ineffective as an immunomodulator. There seems to be no peer-reviewed scientific studies showing that denatured type II collagen provides joint health benefits.

Undenatured type II collagen is produced using little or no heat and processing is bare minimum. The processing required is just enough to concentrate the collagen and make it soluble. This type of collagen supplement is the only form that the body can use effectively.

Collagen Helps to Repair Joints

Collagen can help repair joints but under the proper conditions. Not only are foods rich in vitamin C needed (possibly supplementation as well), but also foods high in lysine and arginine ( i.e., fish, chicken, beef, lamb, milk, cheese, beans, and mung bean sprouts). Avoiding foods that cause inflammation is really important and this means reducing or eliminating gluten and anything that contains processed sugar. In addition to diet, exercise is important, but knowing what exercises can be done safely should be approved by a qualified health professional.

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 help you develop a personalized plan to ensure your joint health is as good as it possible can be. 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.

Resources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128098479000015
https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/efficacy-of-oral-collagen-in-joint-pain--osteoarthritis-and-rheumatoid-arthritis-2167-7921-1000233.php?aid=87350
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/collagen-type-iii-alpha-1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18772587

Kyphosis is the technical name for having a hunched back that is not remedied by naturally straightening the back. Of course we all get lazy at times and slouch to the point it appears we are hunchbacked; however, kyphosis is a condition in which an individual has an exaggerated thoracic curve and rounded shoulders. This is a condition that is on the increase.

There are causes to this condition with the two most common causes being poor posture and muscular imbalances. When caused by poor posture this condition is known as postural kyphosis. Kyphosis can affect anyone at any age except newborns.

In addition to poor posture and muscular imbalances other possible causes include:

• upper back muscle weakness
• arthritis
• bone degeneration diseases
• spine injury
• slipped discs
• spinal curvature (scoliosis)
• aging

Although much less common there are other causes that may lead to kyphosis, these include:

• tumours
• infection in the spine
• Paget’s disease
• muscular dystrophy
• birth defects

Many people live with kyphosis and rarely seek out treatment. If any individual with this condition experiences breathing difficulties, pain or fatigue then it is really important to get treatment. Pretty much all of our mobility and flexibility depends on the health of our spine. Seeking treatment to help correct kyphosis is important to help reduce the risk of complications later in life.

Postural kyphosis will more than likely cause further trouble down the road. Even if an individual experiences shallow breathing or slight, occasional pain it is imperative they seek treatment.

Treating kyphosis early by strengthening the back muscles and seeking out chiropractic adjustments will help.

Other Types of Kyphosis:

Congenital kyphosis refers to abnormal development of the spine that is inherited. This means a person is born with a defect, such as the incomplete formation of the spine. This can lead to a severe abnormal kyphosis.

Paralysis can lead to kyphosis. Causes of the paralysis can include spinal muscle atrophy or cerebral palsy. The development of kyphosis in these cases is gradual.

Degenerative kyphosis refers to the wear and tear of the lumbar (lower) spine. Over a period of time the degenerative process can cause the collapse of the intervertebral disc and weakening of the spinal ligaments. Once kyphosis begins to form it gradually gets worse.

Scheuermann's kyphosis occurs in children and the thoracic curve is usually 45 and 75 degrees.

Exercises that Can Help

Here are four exercises that can help you if done on a regular basis:

• Lay Down Y

This exercise will strengthen the extension muscles in the upper back.

How to do it: Lie face down with your head lifted off the floor. Your lower back needs to be slightly hyper-extended. Stretch your arms straight out in a Y position with your thumbs pointing up. Pull your arms back in an arc until your hands are in a ‘handcuff’ position. Slowly reverse your arms until you’re at the start. Repeat 2 or 3 times.

• Wall Sliding (wall angels)

This exercise will strengthen the scapular retractors and will provide good shoulder mobility.

How to do it: Stand with your back against a wall but take one small step forward. Hold your arms out in the shape of a W with your hands facing up. Push your hands up toward the wall until they reach a Y position. Return your arms to the W position. Repeat 5 times.

• T-Spine Rotation

Thoracic spine rotations are essential for increasing mobility in the thoracic spine region (where the kyphosis affects).

How to do it: Get on all fours making sure your arms are at full length and your hands are positioned just in front of your shoulders. Take your right arm and stretch out your arm. Slowly move your arm underneath your body (and slow twist at the waist) until your arm is as far through as possible and you are looking at the palm of your right hand. Slowly reverse. Do 3 of these then repeat with the other arm.

• Crucifix

Spending too much time in a seated position causes lower and upper back muscles to shorten which leads to poor posture. This stretch helps to undo these shortened muscles.

How to do it: Stand tall with your arms extended straight out to your sides at shoulder height. Turn your wrists so your thumbs face backwards and pull your (straight) arms up over your head. Bend your elbows until your elbow is at a 90 degree angle. Lower your left hand until it touches your shoulder. Take your right hand and place it on the left elbow. Lower your left hand as far as you can go and hold for as long as you can. Slowly release. Repeat 2 times then switch to your other arm. Do this exercise several times a day.

Chiropractic Treatment for Kyphosis

Treatment will depend on a couple of factors such as the severity and the underlying cause. For those in which the cause is poor posture the good news is that aggressive treatments are not required. What may be required includes:

• physical therapy
• correction of the spinal joint fixations
• yoga (to help build strength and range of motion)

If the cause of kyphosis is due to an infection then antibiotics may be required. If tumours are the underlying cause then surgery may be required.

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.

Prenatal massage can bring much needed relief to a woman carrying a baby. Every woman can expect some stiffness and muscular tension throughout the pregnancy as the uterus grows and sometimes this tension can take its toll on the mom-to-be.

Massage therapy during a pregnancy is gaining popularity as moms-to-be are realizing that the benefits of prenatal massage include relief. Back pain is perhaps the most common side effect of pregnancy. The added weight puts a lot of strain on the spine and often what starts in pregnancy has continued after the birth. If a woman has other small children while pregnant, carrying them around while pregnant can exacerbate symptoms.

What Conditions Can Be Treated With Massage Therapy?

Many women have discovered that massage can help relieve back pain. In addition to soothing that muscle tension, other prenatal massage benefits include:

• Relief of edema.
• Reduction of swelling in the ankles, feet and hands.
• Reduces swelling by stimulating circulation throughout the body.
• Reduction of leg cramps and swelling in the legs.
• Lessens sciatic pain.
• Helps to relax and reduce anxiety throughout pregnancy.
• Massage helps to prevent insomnia and promotes a better sleep.
• Prenatal massage can help relax the unborn child when the abdomen is gently stroked.
• Lessens muscular discomfort in the lower back and neck.
• Increases blood and lymph flow which aids in the elimination of toxins throughout the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
• Increased blood flow also means oxygen is increased in the blood stream which in turn delivers more nutrients to the baby.
• Massage stimulates release of endorphins into the brain and nervous system. (Endorphins are natural pain killers in the body.)
• Helps to strength the immune system.

Safe Techniques For Pregnancy Massage

Prenatal massage experts modify massage techniques to address the changes a woman's body as she goes through pregnancy. A pregnant woman will have her blood volume increase dramatically, almost by 50 percent and yet blood flow to the legs tends to become sluggish. These changes can put a woman at risk of blood clots in her legs.

Massage therapists know that they need to avoid deep massage on the legs as well as any strong pressure. What they do use are light, slow, gentle strokes on the legs and all massage strokes are in the direction of the heart.

Before any therapeutic massage, it is recommended that a woman speak with her obstetrician first to be sure there will be no contraindications.

Many massage therapists won't give a prenatal massage during the first trimester as there is a risk of miscarriage. Some experts argue that prenatal massage does not directly cause a miscarriage, but there is no research out there that shows a link between a massage and a miscarriage. Regardless, if a woman is at risk of miscarriage then she is not advised to have a pregnancy massage.

Tips to Remember:

• Always be sure to tell the massage therapist you are pregnant and how far along.
• Avoid aromatherapy oils.
• Be sure that your massage therapist is specially trained in pregnancy massage and is certified.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gardening is a favourite activity enjoyed by many and as the growing season progresses so does back trouble. Working outdoors in the garden or those who are landscapers often experience back issues from time-to-time and this is (usually) treated quite easily. After a long winter we all want to get outside and rush into our gardens yet after sitting idle for many months, racing out there may get many into trouble. Sometimes right away or sometimes weeks later, back troubles start to emerge that inhibit one’s ability to enjoy their garden. The main muscles used during gardening are in the back, shoulders, legs, thighs, and wrists. Lower back pain is the most common pain that gardeners tend to suffer. The lower back muscles support the whole body so it is very common to suffer from lower back pain not only after gardening, but any physical activity.

Prevention is Key

To help prevent back injury doing some simple warm up exercises is important. After all, gardening is exercise and being limbered up to spend time working outdoors can help. Not only will you feel better after gardening, chances are you’ll feel better while out in the garden.Having a brisk walk around the block is a simple exercise you can do to help limber up. A few toe touching movements (be sure knees are bent), holding your arms straight out from your shoulders and making circles, and a few twisting movements at the waist (legs secure, knees bent) all go a long way to loosening up your muscles and helping you get through your garden work with ease.

Repetitive Movements

Keep in mind that repetitive movements and improperly lifting heavy objects are the main causes of injuries. Gardening is bending over, twisting, lifting and pulling. Depending on how much work there is to do, switch up your tasks every 10-15 minutes.

Other Tips

The riskiest thing to a gardener is bending over and lifting heavy objects. Always be sure your knees are bent and when you lift something that your legs are doing the brunt of the works and your back is kept straight at all times. Never twist when picking something up.If you have a lot of raking to do (as most of us do especially in the spring and autumn months) rake with one foot in front of the other then switch ‘lead’ legs once in awhile.Take frequent rest breaks. Stop as often as you need to and evaluate how you feel. Always drink lots of water, and breathe deep while having your breaks.Above all, know your limitations and get help when needed. They say in health care that the caregiver needs to take care of themselves in order to provide the best care. This rule applies to gardening as well. When the gardener takes care of himself, the garden will flourish. Last but not least, if you are down on the ground removing weeds or planting be sure to use knee pads. Knee pads go a long way to prevent knee injuries.

The Sun

Although the sun doesn’t fit into the category of preventing back injury while gardening it needs to be mentioned because it is important to having healthy bones. We all need sunshine on our skin to help our body produce vitamin D which is critical in our overall health. To read more about this please refer to a previous article by clicking here. If you always use sunscreen then you are opening the door to possible health problems including having a poor immune system in the winter. Having 15 or 20 minutes of mid day sun will help your body produce all the vitamin D you need for awhile. However, as summer draws to a close it becomes very important to start taking supplements or making sure you are getting enough vitamin D. The best method of protection when you aren’t “getting” your daily dose of sunshine is simply by wearing a wide brimmed hat and long sleeves. However, if you must use sunscreen please research which ones are safe. Many have been proven to cause cancer because of the chemical content. You can refer to the Environmental Working Group’s sunscreen report to find out what brands are safe.

When Gardening Injury Occurs

An injury can be something as minor as a tiny ache to piecing pain and anything in between. If it is a minor ache and you can still maintain good posture and this ache does not stop you from doing other activities then be sure to take it easy. Sometimes going for a walk can help or doing very light work, but none-the-less do not go overboard.
If your injury causes you to want to reach for pain killers then please seek chiropractic help. Taking a pill will temporarily alleviate pain but it won’t solve the underlying issue which is the injury. It is critical to ensure that the exact problem is taken care of properly to help prevent re-injury.

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

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!

Many people associate massage therapy with relaxation and the loosening of tired, sore muscles, but they may not realize just how beneficial massage therapy is to the rest of the body.  Richmond Hill massage therapy can provide you with the relaxation you need, while helping your body to heal itself in a variety of ways.

Massage therapy benefits more than just the muscles.  It also stimulates the lymphatic system, which plays an integral role in detoxification and prevention of disease.  Massage helps drain the lymphatic system, releasing harmful toxins so that the body can eliminate them before they can do harm.  Massage therapy can also break down scar tissue that may be interfering with blood circulation, restoring proper blood flow to areas that have suffered injury.  Circulation throughout the body will improve as a result of massage therapy, which means that all of the organs, particularly the brain will receive more oxygen to improve function.  Toxins can accumulate in the body’s tissues as a result of stress and overexertion, and massage is the best way to eliminate them.  Richmond Hill massage therapy specialists can assess your needs and target specific problem areas, providing relief in those particular areas, or simply give your entire body a soothing deep tissue massage, leaving you feeling energized and refreshed.

Massage of the hands and feet stimulates pressure points that affect all of the body’s organs and systems, improving function for overall good health.  Richmond Hill massage therapy is a very effective treatment for headaches and other tension-related complaints.  It can provide relief for arthritis and bursitis sufferers and can even relieve constipation.  Massage can also help with aches and pains associated with pregnancy, sports injuries and pain associated with fibromyalgia, tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.  Why not pamper yourself with Richmond Hill massage therapy today?

Dehydration is one of the most common causes of headaches; in fact this is the reason why upon waking up every morning we all should be consuming a very large glass of water. After sleeping for several hours our body is in need of rehydration.

There are many people who suffer from headaches and they try rehydrating but this does not help. Many people experience nerve irritation which is a common cause of headache pain.  Taking an over-the-counter pain relief pill is not going to solve the underlying problem, this is merely a ‘band aid’ solution. Masking the pain may be ok if you are in a rush or need to be somewhere fast but if you suffer from frequent headaches then there is obviously an underlying issue that must be addressed.

Tension headaches and migraines afflict about 4.5 million Canadians and they spend upwards of $40 million a year trying to seek relief from over-the-counter and prescription medications in a desperate attempt to seek permanent relief. For some individuals taking a pain relief pill works because their headache is stress-related and there are no underlying health ailments. For others, the pain relief pill is merely temporary.

Types of Headaches

Headaches can be the result of a wide variety of causes, such as reactions to a drug, stress, fatigue, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), nerve irritation, high blood pressure, low blood sugar or tightness in the neck muscles.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches tend to be the most common affecting almost three quarters of all headache sufferers. This type of headache feels like a dull feeling that’s achy either on one or both sides of the head; this sensation is often described as a tight feeling or a dull ache behind the eyes or around the head. Tension headaches tend to creep in and can last briefly or for several days. These headaches are often the result of bad posture or stress.

Subluxations are the most common cause of tension headaches. This occurs in the upper back and neck, especially the upper neck. When the top cervical vertebrae lose their normal position or movement, a small muscle (rectus capitis posterior minor) starts to spasm. This small muscle has a tendon which slips between the upper neck and the base of the skull and attaches to a thin pain-sensitive tissue (dura mater) that covers the brain. The brain has no feeling but the dura mater is very pain-sensitive so when that small muscle spasms and its tendon tugs at the dura mater, a headache starts.

Migraine Headaches

Those who suffer with migraines know that these are very intense and are also accompanied with nausea and (or) sensitivity to light or noise. Migraines can last from a few hours to a few days.

Migraine headaches are caused when the blood vessels in the brain constrict and then followed by a dilation of blood vessels. As a result there is decreased blood flow, which leads to visual symptoms (flashing light/aura) that many people experience. Even those who don't experience the aura can tell that an attack is imminent. When the blood vessels dilate in the head, there is a sudden increase in blood pressure. It’s this increased pressure that leads to the migraine. When the heart beats it sends a shock wave through the carotid arteries in the neck up into the brain.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are generally very short in duration yet they are excruciating and usually felt behind the eyes or on one side of the head. This type of headache generally occurs at night. Cluster headaches tend to occur one to four times per day over a period of several days. After one cluster of headaches is over, it may be months or even years, before they occur again.

Can a chiropractor relieve headaches?

Our nervous system is protected by the spine which starts with the brain and becomes the spinal cord. When the vertebrae in the neck are unable to move properly there is pressure on the nerves in that area which can cause headaches. A chiropractor can correct this by gently adjusting the vertebrae. Since most headaches are caused by subluxations a patient will usually feel relief.

How about migraines?

Even though there are differences in the types of headaches, migraines can be treated as well. In fact, chiropractic care has been used for years as an effective treatment for migraines.

When you visit Chiro-Med Rehab Centre to seek help with headaches the first appointment requires a check up. You’ll have your posture and flexibility checked, muscle tenderness, tightness, as well as other non-invasive tests to determine the root cause. After a thorough examination only then can a treatment options be discussed.

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.