massage therapy tips,massage therapist, edmonton

4 Tips on Choosing the Right Massage Therapist

Be honest, have all your massages been as amazing as you have thought they were? Probably not, and there could be many reasons for this. Fortunately there are ways that will help you determine the best massage therapist for yourself. Simply keep the following tips in mind and you are good to go.

1.      Be Aware Of Your Goals

When it comes to massages, every person has different goals. Some people want massage therapy on a particular area to relieve pain, some are getting massages to treat medical conditions, while other are doing it for mere enjoyment. It will be important to clearly communicate your goals with your massage therapist. It will ensure you are getting the treatment and results you desire.

2.      Learn About the Different Massages

Since there are so many types of massages, it is important that you understand the differences between them. There are massages that are specifically made to treat medical conditions, some are for recreational purposes, and others are for athletes. Take time to research different types of massage therapy so that you are educated before your visit. If you require more information, make sure to ask your massage therapists question before you begin your treatment.

3.      Figure Out Your Preferences

After determining your goal and the method you would like, you will need to decide your preferences. This means you need to know where you want the treatment to take place.

Do you want an at-home massage or do you want to go to the massage therapist? What type of environment would you like to go to? Or, if you have additional requests like dim lights, relaxing music, or scented candles.

After figuring out your preferences, you can talk to the therapist and make arrangements.

4.      Homework

Before finalizing your therapist, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. You must ask them a few questions regarding their work.

How long they have been doing this for, whether or not they are certified and so on. You can also read reviews regarding your therapist and call them up to ask any additional questions.

By following these simple tips, you will definitely book the best massage therapist in your area. Moreover, you will be getting the maximum benefits while you are relaxing your body.

For more information about our clinic check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca. To book your next massage therapy appointment give us a call @ 780-455-2112.

How Vitamin D Supports the Skeletal System

The human body needs vitamin D in order to build strong muscles and bones. When the body does not get enough vitamin D, it is not able to absorb calcium effectively. This makes it very important for good bone health. Children who do not get adequate vitamin D develop rickets, a condition that causes weak bones, deformities in the skeleton, and a stooped posture.

What is Vitamin D?

Most people believe that vitamin D is a vitamin; it isn’t. It is actually a hormone. A vitamin is a nutrient that the human body requires but is unable to produce. This means that it can only be obtained through supplements and food.

However, the body is able to manufacture vitamin D. When the skin is exposed to the appropriate sunlight, the body begins a process that produces vitamin D. It should also be noted that vitamin D plays a part in a strong immune system and can prevent certain chronic diseases in older adults.

There are supplements for people who do not produce enough vitamin D or who do not get adequate amounts in the food that they eat (fish liver oils, certain fish, and egg yolks are good sources). Children and adults typically do not get enough from their foods and activities. People spend a great deal of time indoors with adults at work and children at school. The emergence of digital devices and video games has managed to keep children inside as they engage in these activities.

Vitamin D is not measured in milligrams like many other supplements, but in International Units (IU) instead. Research has caused the daily recommended allowance for vitamin D to increase over the years, and the current recommendation is 400 IU. It has been determined that this amount is the most beneficial in promoting healthy bones.

The Role of the Skeletal System

The skeletal system has several functions. The first and most obvious is that it is the structural support for the body. It also protects vital organs.

For instance, the skull protects the brain and the rib cage protects the lungs and heart. It is also an anchor point for muscle so it helps with mobility. The red bone marrow provides illness fighting white blood cells, as well as red blood cells. Calcium is stored in the marrow, as is phosphorous. Certain minerals and fats are stored in the yellow marrow which is found in the long bones of the body.

How Vitamin D Benefits the Skeletal System

Getting enough vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium which is a bone building mineral. In addition to that task, it also promotes good muscle health.

Stronger muscles can work much more effectively in protecting the muscles and supporting the skeletal system. This can help with joint health as well. Older people who have adequate vitamin D do not fall down as often and people of all ages have fewer broken bones.

Results of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is a serious condition mainly due to its essential role in the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Muscle weakness and bone pain are two common symptoms, but are typically seen in more severe cases.

A simple blood test can check for vitamin D levels – and it should be checked regularly. Even “minor” cases of low vitamin D (those without any symptoms) have been linked to some serious health conditions including:

  • Certain cancers
  • Asthma – often severe, especially in children
  • Cognitive impairment, especially in older adults
  • Increased risk of death due to cardiovascular disease

Vitamin D is generally very accessible. You can get it through foods and sunlight or via a supplement. People who may have some trouble getting adequate amounts are those who have limited exposure to sunlight, fail to consume the necessary levels of the vitamin, and people who have dark skin. If you think that you may have low vitamin D, it is best to talk to your doctor so you can come up with a plan to get your body back in balance.

acupuncture, needles, benefits

Acupuncture Needles Improve Health?

Just the thought of having acupuncture needles inserted in any part of the body can be extremely intimidating for many people. However, sometimes it is important and beneficial to opt for treatments that provide you with the best results.

New clients to our clinic may at times be intimidated or a little “scared” about receiving acupuncture treatment. The truth is  that acupuncture isn’t scary at all. Acupuncture  treatment has the ability to release body pains and help individuals to reduce tension in their lives.

Here are a few things to expect from an acupuncture treatment:

1.     It Does Not Hurt

This is the biggest fear everyone has when opting for an acupuncture treatment. Thinking about fine needles entering the skin can sound terrifying, when in reality, it really is not.

When working with a certified and experienced acupuncturist, the use of acupuncture needles feel like someone plucking on your body hair. There is no pain because the acupuncturist knows exactly where and how to inset their needles so that their client can feel comfortable throughout.

2.     How Does It Work

The act of inserting acupuncture needles allows access to the different energy channels located in the body and their specific points. Since all the points and energy channels are linked with different parts of the body, the acupuncturist knows exactly where to insert the needle so that symptoms of tension and pain can be relieved.

After the consultation, the acupuncturist will let you know which points they will be working on. You will be settled on a massage table. The acupuncturist will then choose 10-20 points to insert their acupuncture needles.  After the needles have been placed, you will be allowed to relax for 20-30 minutes by yourself. During this time the acupuncture needles will be working the open up blocked energy channels.

4.     It Is a Normal Doctor’s Appointment

Many people go into their acupuncture appointment thinking of it as a spa treatment. However, the truth is that it is more of a medical treatment than spa. Although, acupuncture does provide individuals with endless relaxation, the main goal is to improve the health and function of the individual.

5.     Ask the Acupuncturist Everything

It is important to ask the acupuncturist every thing that may be coming to your mind. Any questions and concerns must be addressed. It will also be important to tell the acupuncturists everything so that you can get the full benefit from the treatment.

The after effects of the treatment allow individuals to feel internally in balance and energized. If you interested in getting started with acupuncture give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112. Our staff will be happy to help. Check-out our website @ www.ocwc.ca for information on our clinic and services.