How Chiropractic Helps Resolve Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

As the weather warms and spring is in full swing, more and more runners are heading outside, hitting the pavement to train for upcoming races or to just step up their game after a long winter. While there are some die hard runners who don’t let even the most brutal winter stop them, most tend to retreat indoors, waiting for warmer days and a more pleasant environment. Unfortunately, increased activity can also lead to an increased risk of injury, particularly patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), also known as runner’s knee.

What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

Runner’s knee is often used to describe PFPS, but runner’s knee is actually a broader term describing several different knee injuries or ailments. PFPS is a painful condition that is caused when the tissue that is between the femur (thigh bone) and the patella (kneecap) becomes inflamed or irritated.

Most people will notice pain in the front portion or anterior part of the knee, but pain can be experienced in other parts of the knee and even back pain may occur. Running increases the discomfort, as does sitting for long periods and going up or down stairs.

The causes of PFPS can also vary widely. Overuse is often the first thing that people think, but a problem with the way the knee is aligned is actually the most common reason.

If the patella is not properly aligned, when it moves through the groove that is at the end of the femur, it causes irritation to the surrounding tissues. This usually happens because the muscles and joints are out of balance.

For instance, if the quad muscle on one side is weaker than the other side it throws the entire system out of balance, causing the knee to become misaligned. This leads to knee pain and discomfort.

Treatment for Runner’s Knee

When treating PFPS, rest is usually first on the list, followed by icing the area to reduce inflammation. Once the pain is under control, the next step is to determine what is causing the problem. It is important to rule out more serious conditions or injuries first in order to determine the best course of treatment.

If it is indeed PFPS, strengthening the muscles in and around the knee is generally the first step in treatment. It is important that the muscle strength is balanced so that the knee can be properly aligned. Getting a good pair of running shoes is also recommended so that future injury can be prevented.

Chiropractic for Runner’s Knee

Runner’s knee, or PFPS, responds very well to chiropractic treatment. The chiropractor is able to do a complete exam and find the cause of the problem, then tailor the treatment accordingly. This is typically done on a case by case basis with treatment that is based on the individual’s unique needs. The chiropractor may do various chiropractic alignments and manipulations on the spine, hip, ankle, and knee in order to bring the body back into proper balance.

The chiropractor may also recommend other complimentary treatments including special supplements, dietary adjustments, and an exercise plan. The chiropractor may also recommend certain stretching exercises to aid in healing. Kinesio taping is another common treatment that may be used in conjunction with chiropractic care. It is particularly beneficial when there is a muscular strength imbalance. The tape can help support the weaker muscle group.

Chiropractic care is a very effective treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome and the associated knee pain. It works to correct the problem by bringing the body back into proper alignment, allowing it to function as it should.

Call (780)455-2112 to book your assessment or visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our clinic and practitioners!

5 Ways Massage Can Help Improve Health

June 17, 2019/1 Comment/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Stress and tension have become such a big part of every individual’s life and it seems to be deteriorating their mental health. However, there are ways to get rid of stress in the most comfortable way.

If you are suffering from everyday stress, your go-to solution to relieve stress should be getting a massage. It comes with numerous health benefits along with relaxation. Massage therapy should become a part of every individual’s healthcare regime as it will give them a break from life, unwind, and relax.

Here’s how massage can add to your overall health and wellbeing:

1. Makes Blood Circulation Better

Sitting in the same position for long hours leads to postural stress. Lack of stretching or walking can be a result of poor blood circulation. This then leads to a weak immune system and bad digestion. Blood circulation gets better when you add massage to your routine as it will give you energy and release muscular stress. Although exercise is recommended, massages have proven to be the best way of stimulating blood flow in your body. They also improve the immune function and digestion.

2. Fight Depression and Anxiety

Massage therapy is also referred to as the “art of touching.” A single human touch can change perceptions and give the relaxation one needs after a long, tiring day. Massage stimulates the release of happy hormones to in your body, which calms the pathways of neuromuscular activities. This causes a significant decrease in anxiety and depression amongst people. The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry revealed that individuals who get regular massages are less anxious and depressed compared to others who don’t.

3. Better Sleep

When blood circulation gets better and muscle tension is released, an individual feels relaxed and calmer. This allows the sleep cycle to improve and gives the person a better perspective on things. A good massage will allow you to go to sleep with a clear mind and enjoy a deep, sound sleep.

Fun fact: If infants are massaged before sleeping, they will sleep longer and better.

4. Strong Immune System

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine revealed that people who get regular massages have stronger immune function. Stress causes your body to be prone to diseases and viruses. Therefore, an individual should work on strengthening their immune system. Massaging helps lessen the stress hormones that are present in your bloodstream. It causes the activity of white blood cells to increase, which leads to a strong body defense and a healthier perspective on life.

5. Get Rid of Headaches

Having a long-term headache can possibly make an individual dysfunctional. When you are suffering from a severe headache, your first instinct is to apply pressure on the area that is hurting. A therapeutic massage will allow the pain to ease along with a positive and clear mindset.

Visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our registered therapists and to book your appointment online!

What Chiropractic Patients Want To Know About Organic Food vs. Conventional Food

June 10, 2019/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog, Nutrition /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Many supermarkets have started offering their shoppers a choice in produce: organic or conventionally farmed. This can leave many wondering just what the difference is.

The truth is, both foods taste the same – or very close. Both have the same vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, so what is the big difference?

It comes down to two major areas: safety and nutrition. That is what consumers need to understand when they are trying to make a decision on whether to purchase foods that have been conventionally farmed, or foods that are organic.

What is “organic”?

Organic is an often misused word but the true meaning is that the term refers to how food is grown and processed. Organic farming is intended to encourage water and soil conservation as well as reduce pollution.

Organic farming does not use chemicals for controlling weeds, eliminating insects, or fertilizing. Most of the methods are completely natural. For instance, an organic farmer may use natural fertilizers to enrich the soil, strategically placed plants to control insects, and mulch or crop rotation to control weeds.

Organic vs. conventional foods

Conventionally farmed products will often use chemicals for insect control and weed control. They often use some type of processing on their foods.

The fertilizer used in planting often has chemicals. The foods may even be genetically modified. Animals may be injected with steroids and hormones which can cause unpleasant or even harmful side effects.

Organic foods do not use any chemicals, they are not genetically modified, and they are not injected with antibiotics or steroids. The food has been very minimally processed – if at all.

There are no additives that don’t belong and could be potentially harmful. Organic foods are safer for human consumption and they are typically more nutritious.

How to identify organic foods

In the United States, a food or product that is labeled as organic is required to be certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA has a certification program for organic growers and it has a set of very stringent standards that the product or food must meet.

There are some exemptions. For instance, a producer who does not sell more than $5,000 annually just in organic foods is not required to get the certification although they do have to adhere to the USDA’s stringent requirements for organic foods.

When a food carries the USDA Organic label, it means that it meets the requirements. While organic producers are not required to put the label on their products, many do.

The labeling varies, depending on the type of food. Single ingredient foods like eggs, vegetables, and fruits are considered to be 100 percent organic and are allowed to carry the USDA seal.

Foods that contain two or more ingredients, like breakfast cereal, are still allowed to use the USDA seal, but also must include the following information:

Organic – The product must be 95 percent organic or greater in order to be able to use this term
100 percent organic – The product must be completely organic or all of its ingredients must be organic
Made with organic ingredients – The product contains no less than 70 percent organic ingredients

If the product has less than 70 percent organic ingredients, they are not allowed to use the word “organic” anywhere on their product labels.

Health benefits of organic foods

The greatest health benefit of organic foods is what it does not provide. Organic growers do not use synthetic pesticides to protect their crops from disease, insects, and molds. This means that the food itself has never been touched by these chemicals.

Organic foods also do not have the food additives that conventional foods often do. They are free from artificial sweeteners, flavorings, and colorings as well as preservatives and mono-sodium glutamate. This means that eating organic means that you aren’t putting those chemicals into your body. Plus, many people say that organic foods simply taste better.

If you have further questions or concerns about your particular diet, please ask us! Our Doctor of Chiropractic can help guide you toward a more healthy life, including the foods you consume.

4 Posture Tips Every Chiropractic Patient Can Use

June 3, 2019/0 Comments/in Chiropractic, Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Good posture is more important than many people realize. Many a mother has followed her child around, reminding him or her to “stand up straight!” Not everyone knows all the reasons that this is important, but they should. Good posture is essential to good spinal health as well as good overall health.

People with good posture sleep better, feel better, and have fewer aches and pains in the joints, back, neck, and head. It helps you have better digestion, improves your organ function, and helps to make your chiropractic treatments even more effective. These top posture tips will help you stand straight and tall while enjoying better health.

Be aware

Being aware of poor posture is the first step in being able to correct it. When you feel your spine starts to curve, your shoulders hunch, or your back sway, stop and take a moment to pull your body back into proper alignment. Pretend that there is a string that goes through your entire body from the top of your head.

In your mind, pull that string up, raising your chin slightly so that it is parallel to the floor. Pull your shoulders back and allow your arms to hang naturally at your side. Bend your knees slightly (soft knees) with your feet about shoulder width apart. Tuck in your stomach and roll your pelvis forward so your back is not swayed. Keep your weight mostly on the balls of your feet. Think tall. Take deep breaths and allow yourself to get an idea of what this, good posture, feels like.

Use the wall

Using the wall or floor can help you get a feel for how to shift your pelvis. If you have a habit of tilting your pelvis back so that you have a sway back, you need to learn how to roll it forward to get it straight.

A person can develop a sway back out of habit, due to injury, or if they carry a lot of abdominal fat. It can cause a great deal of pain and just making the adjustment to straighten your spine will make a tremendous difference.

To get the feel for straightening your back, stand flat against a wall. Keep your feet directly under you. Now try to press the small of your back into the wall. Feel how your body shifts as your pelvis rolls forward. Pay attention to that sensation so you can duplicate it without using the wall. You can also do this while lying on your back with your knees slightly bent. Practice arching your back and then pressing it against the floor to get a feel for that motion.

Stay active

Regular exercise and stretching are very important for good posture. What many people don’t realize, though, is that good posture is absolutely vital while you are exercising. This is called “form.” You need to practice good form while you are doing weight bearing exercises, cardio, and stretching. If you don’t it can lead to injury or pain.

Your chiropractor can advise you on various exercises and the proper form for them. If you work out at a gym or at home, learn about good form for the exercises that you do. Fitness professionals can help you with this and are well worth the investment.

Get Regular Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic treatments can help correct poor posture, but even if you are working on it yourself it is important to get regular chiropractic care. There are several reasons for this. First, your chiropractor can make adjustments to your spine, providing you with a much wider range of motion and better mobility. Your chiropractor can also recommend exercises for you and show you how to do them properly. If you have weight issues he or she can provide you with advice on diet and lifestyle changes. Taking advantage of the whole body wellness that chiropractic offers will not only improve your posture, it will improve your life.

It’s never too late to correct your posture, give our clinic a call at (780)455-2112 to book your assessment with one of our wellness chiropractors. Visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about us!

What Chiropractic Patients Want to Know About Tension Headaches

May 27, 2019/0 Comments/in Chiropractic, Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Tension headaches are the most prevalent types of headaches, occurring more often in women than in men. Research shows that 48 percent of women and 38 percent of men suffer from tension headaches.

Each year, patients spend more than $2 billion on over the counter headache medications. In fact, people spend a lot of money and effort seeking remedies for headaches. From prescription medication to over the counter drugs to alternative headache treatments like meditation, acupuncture, and chiropractic.

In fact, chiropractic is a proven treatment for tension headaches, but there is more to it than just adjustments. Chiropractic offers a whole body approach to treatment that can not only relieve the pain of tension headaches, but help prevent them as well.

What are Tension Headaches?

The most common type of headache is the tension headache which is described as pain ranging from mild to moderate that feels like a tight band is wrapped around the head. While stress can be a factor in the cause of these headaches, it still isn’t well understood how these headaches originate. Symptoms of a tension headache include:

Aching, dull pain in the head
Sensation of pressure or tightness on the back and sides of the head or across the forehead
Tenderness in the shoulder muscles, neck, and scalp

There are two categories of tension headaches: chronic and episodic. There are two primary factors that identify each type. The length of the headache and the frequency can help you determine which type of tension headache you have.

Chronic Tension Headaches
- Length of Headache – hours and can be continuous
- Frequency of Headache – occur 15 days or more a month for three or more months
Episodic Tension Headaches
- Length of Headache – half hour to a week
- Frequency of Headache – occur less than 15 days a month for three or more months

There are two primary risk factors for tension headaches:

Women – Research shows that nearly 90 percent of women will experience tension headaches throughout the course of their life. Only 70 percent of men will experience tension headaches in their lifetime.
Middle Age – Tension headaches increase as people approach 40 and peak at middle age, or when a person is in their 40s. However, anyone can get a tension headache, regardless of age.

Lifestyle Changes to Treat Tension Headaches

A chiropractor can treat tension headaches through traditional spinal manipulation and adjustments, but they also provide advice on lifestyle and nutrition. Several things that your chiropractor may suggest include applying heat or ice to the area around your neck, shoulders, or head. A warm bath or shower may also help.

Stress management is another way that you can learn to manage and prevent tension headaches. This is typically a combination of minimizing stress in your life and learning relaxation techniques. Your chiropractor may also help you improve your posture. Poor posture is a very common contributing factor for many types of headaches.

Chiropractic for Tension Headaches

Your Doctor of Chiropractic will sit down with you to discuss your history, including your headaches. He or she will conduct diagnostic tests including x-rays, MRIs and other to determine if there are underlying causes for your headaches. They will recommend various lifestyle changes including dietary changes and exercises that you can do.

Your doctor may also perform chiropractic adjustments, or spinal manipulation which will help return the body to proper balance, improving spinal function and alleviating stress on the body and system. This helps to relieve pain as an immediate treatment, but when performed consistently, chiropractic can also help prevent tension headaches, allowing you to live pain free.

Massage Therapy Dos And Don’ts

May 20, 2019/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Since massage therapy has become the new big trend, more and more people have started opting for it. The reason for this is that this therapy allows individuals to release pains, stresses, and tensions, while gaining maximum benefits and relaxation. However, when it comes to massage therapy, there are a few dos and don’ts every individual must be aware of to get the most out of a single therapy session.

To make your massage therapy experience even better, we have the top dos and don’ts for you!

Dos

You must be on time, or even a few minutes earlier than the scheduled time. The reason being earlier is recommended is so that you can get “your fully-allotted time” and get the paperwork done early as well.
It is important to shower before the sessions. It will make a good impression on the masseuse. Moreover, it is a common hygienic practice, and the experience will be better overall.
Let your masseuse leave the room before you take your clothes off. Even though your masseuse has to deal with undressed bodies the entire day, it certainly does not mean they are open to seeing you take your clothes off.
Make sure you are telling your masseuse about any injuries or major surgeries you have undergone. This means ALL the injuries or surgeries you have had in your entire life because it will make a difference.
You must speak up if something does not feel right. The best massage is the one that makes your eyes close, but if yours are not, it means there is something wrong. Feel free to let your masseuse know so they can change what they are doing and provide you with the best experience.
No matter how relaxed you may feel, it is important to leave on time. As amazing as your masseuse may be, you need to know that he/she has other clients as well.
Let your friends know. The best compliment for a masseuse is when there are clients coming in with reference; this shows him/her that she provided his/her clients with top-notch services.

Don’ts

Try not to go for a massage when you have a contagious condition or if you are sick. Why? Because you don’t want to get everyone else sick. In case you are, you must call the reception and reschedule your appointment.
It is not a sin to have hairy legs, whether you are a man or a woman. Masseuses deal with all sorts of clients every single day, making them used to all these things.
Make sure you are not going in for massage therapy if you have consumed alcohol or have taken drugs in the past 24 hours. Narcotics are the last thing you would want in your system when you are getting a massage because it is dangerous and unethical to massage someone under the influence.

These are the top dos and don’ts when you are getting a massage. Simply by following these you will be heightening the benefits of your massage while getting ultimate relaxation.

Give us a call at (780)455-2112 or visit www.ocwc.ca to book online with one of our registered massage therapists!

8 Fermented Foods to Improve Digestion

May 13, 2019/1 Comment/in Chiropractic Blog, Nutrition /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Fermented foods are amazing at keeping your digestive tract healthy and avoiding bowel diseases and acid reflux. With numerous benefits, here are the 9 best foods that you can include in your lunches.

1. Sauerkraut

Sauerkrat is prepared by infusing cabbage with water and salt. The mixture is lightly heated to stop it from killing off the beneficial bacteria. The process of fermentation which breaks down the lactose gives this food a sour taste and lends it cancer-fighting capacity.

You can add a few spoons in salads or over a rice bowl for a healthy dose of probiotics to help digestion.

2. Kimchi

Kimchi is a beloved Korean side-dish taken with ramen and meat dishes. It is made by fermenting different vegetables like cabbages, radishes, and tomatoes mixed in sugar and flavored sauces. Kimchi has been found to lower down cholesterol in the blood and help insulin resistance.

3. Tempeh

Tempeh is an Asian food made by fermenting soybeans and is a wonderful substitute for meat. It has an extremely high content of probiotics that fight off bad bacteria in the body and help your body digest even the heaviest of meals.

Soy protein is helpful in cutting down body cholesterol. You can bake tempeh or even steam with as a side dish with noodles and rice.

4. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is richer and thicker compared to normal yogurt. It carries in it beneficial bacteria from lactic acid prepared through the fermentation process. It’s not only a good source of calcium for healthy bones but a single bowl packs a nutritious punch of essential B vitamins, probiotics, and riboflavin.

Regularly consuming yogurt can single-handedly help you lower down blood pressure, supply your body with beneficial bacteria and, help you lose weight.

5. Kombucha

Kombucha is a traditionally fermented tea made from green or black tea with a sour, unique taste. Drinking a cup after a heavy meal can significantly ward off liver toxicity and help digest the meal quickly. Kombucha also aids in blood sugar regulation and strengthens the liver.

6. Miso

Miso is a Japanese seasoning prepared by fermenting soybeans mixed in salt and moldy rice called Koji. It is used to make miso stock and soup, and traditionally goes with breakfast items.

Studies have shown that women who consume miso naturally have lower risks of breast cancer. Miso has a number of health benefits for the heart and blood pressure while supplying your body with ample probiotics to strengthen immunity.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider is a powerful concentration of fermented apples that is a good morning drink to kickstart metabolism. Having it sparingly after meals can help digestion and increase your stomach’s acid reproduction keeping acid reflux at bay.

It helps the liver detoxify and keep body colon clean.

8. Kefir

Kefir is a fermented drink made out of cultured dairy. By mixing kefir grains with milk and yeast, the concoction turns into a viscous beverage that resembles yogurt.

Kefir is an amazing alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, helps digestion and improve bone health by preventing inflammation.

Fermented foods are an excellent addition to your diet and are the secret to living longer.

For more beneficial health information like this, visit www.ocwc.ca . Our Clinic offers detailed nutritional counselling. Give us a call at (780)455-2112 to schedule your appointment with our Certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor.

How Chiropractic Benefits Cyclists

May 6, 2019/0 Comments/in Chiropractic, Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Now that summer is upon us and the chilly winds of winter are gone for at least a few months, more people are taking their fitness and recreational activities outside. Cycling is popular activity that fits both bills. It is a great way to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors, but it is also an excellent form of exercise.

Chiropractic provides excellent benefits to cyclists, whether you hit the trails on the weekend, incorporate cycling as part of your fitness regimen, or commute to work on your bike every day.

Relief from Pain
Faster Healing from Injuries
Better Muscle Tone and Balance
Improved Range of Motion
Enriched Cycling Biomechanics

In short, chiropractic and help make you a better cyclist and help you get the most out of your cycling. It will help keep your body aligned and balanced physically, but it also treats the whole body.

That means that your chiropractor will also make nutritional recommendations and even recommend various supplements if necessary. This will give your energy a boost and improve your performance, while helping you stay healthy and fit. This is how chiropractic helps you have more stamina and endurance.

Chiropractic for Cycling Injuries

As with any type of physical activity, there is always a chance that injuries will occur. Chiropractic helps keep your body balanced and improves your flexibility. This, in turn, decreases your chance for injury.

However, if you are injured, chiropractic can help you recover and heal much faster. You start with a healthy, balanced body through regular chiropractic care, and that helps you bounce back faster if you sustain an injury.

Chiropractic care can also be used to treat injuries. Cycling can cause pain and injury in the ligaments, muscles, knees, ankles, hips, hands, wrists, feet, neck, back, and shoulders.

Regular adjustments can help decrease the likelihood of pain in these areas, but sometimes the soreness can creep in anyway. When that happens, chiropractic treatments have been shown to be very effective in treating pain without pain medication and associated harmful side effects.

Spinal alignment is one of the most common chiropractic techniques, but it goes much farther than that. Adjustments to the legs and feet can help with ankle, knee, hip, and foot pain. Adjustments to the arms and shoulders can help relieve pain in those areas. Special attention to the joints help keep them flexible and functioning as they should.

Chiropractic allows the Body’s Natural Ability to Heal

Chiropractic is completely natural and does not rely on invasive treatments or surgeries. It does not use medications of any kind. It uses nutrition and supplements that rely on the body’s natural ability to heal. It simply realigns the body so that the neural pathways are unobstructed. This allows blood flow to be more efficient and reach the organs much easier.

Chiropractic involves gentle spinal manipulations that realign the body and restore movement in the joints as well as muscle trigger points and soft tissue. It may include electrical muscular current therapies, massage, cold laser therapy, ultrasonic waves, and other therapies in addition to the spinal manipulations.

A chiropractic patient may be advised to rest, ice an area, elevate it, or be given specific exercises to work that area. Chiropractic is not a rote therapy as many traditional medical practices tend to be. It adjusts to each patient, taking into account their unique lifestyle, activity level, nutritional needs, and other elements that influence that particular patient’s healing process.

Chiropractic sees each patient as individual and treat them as such. This is what makes it such an effective treatment for cyclists. The benefits it offers them can not only keep them pain free and participating in their activity; it can also make them better at it.

Visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our chiropractors or call (780)455-2112 to book your assessment!

massage massages best massages worldwide

Best Massages From Around the World

April 15, 2019/1 Comment/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Frequent travelers know how hard it can be hopping on one plane to another. With the constant rush of getting everything packed on time to catching the flight can lead to great physical and mental stress. Therefore, it is important to opt for a safe escapade when these travelling individuals land in their destinations. Here is a breakdown of the best massages around the world.

Swedish Massages

Contrary to popular belief, the Swedish massage did not originate in Sweden. Moreover, it was not even invented by a Swede. A Dutch practitioner incorporated basic strokes with French names to create this massage.

This massage is best known for its ability to soothe frictions using stokes, rubs, and kneads and strikes on the human body with different levels of pressure. Moreover, it is ideal for those that exercise regularly or even athletes, as it can loosen the lactic acids in the body and promote blood circulation.

African Rungu

This massage was first introduced in South Africa, but it is rapidly spreading across the region. The Rungu stick is a symbol of the warriors, which is why it is special.

This massage is done with the help of the Rungu stick so pressure can penetrate deeper into the muscles for better and more effective pain relief. The stick is then moved in circular fashion over the problem areas, which releases tension from within the tissues. Moreover, it promotes blood circulation.

Japanese Shiatsu

Although, acupuncture and herbalism is a form of ancient China, the Japanese brought this into their nation, incorporated their own techniques, and created this massage method.

The meaning of Shiatsu is “finger pressure” which means this massage is all about applying the right amount of pressures to the painful areas. There are many variations of this massage (like cupping and acupuncture). However, the goal is to create a balance in the body.

Hot or Cold Stone Massages

There are different variations of this massage available, but its roots come from Arizona.

The thing to remember when opting for this massage is that the temperature of the stone must be chemically connected with the body temperature. Every therapist has their own way of performing this massage, and sometimes it is even incorporated with others for best results.

Thai Massages

This massage has been around for many generations, but has been modified as time has gone on.

For this, there is movement required from the therapist and receiver. It includes high-pressure rubbing and kneading, but in some cases, the therapist has to move on the body to give the best results. Sometimes the sound of bones cracking is also audible!

Ayurveda

Created with intense Indian influence, this head massage has been around for many generations.

In this massage, the therapist uses oils on the head and begins kneading the head, applying pressure on the temples. They slowly move towards the shoulders, neck, and hands. This allows the body to restore its energy and release tensions.

Next time you land, make sure you opt for one of these recommended massages to experience the best time in your destination and so you can stay relaxed.

6 Synthetic Foods That Can Destroy Bone Health (And How to Undo the Damage)

April 8, 2019/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog, Nutrition /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Synthetic or artificially made foods used as additives are far more toxic than we can imagine. Some of them don’t even qualify as foods and barely provide any nutritional value. Heavy metals, food dyes, and pesticides in our foods are not only harmful to our colon health but suck nutrients away from our bones. Most commonly found in beverages, trans-fat foods, and breakfast syrups, there are plenty of synthetic foods hidden in your snacks and drinks that may be slowly killing your bones.

Watch out for the following list of man-made additives, sugars, and oils that can possibly deprive your bones of nutritional health if consumed abundantly.

1. Synthetic Sulfites

Sulfites include sulfur dioxide, calcium sulfites, and sodium disulfite. They are mainly used as preservatives and artificial colors. Although banned from being used over vegetables and fruits, sulfites are still freely used in many foods we eat like processed juices and tea, canned foods, and alcohol.
The main reason why they are deadly for bone health is that they take away Thiamin or Vitamin B1. Sulfites tend to hinder growth and development in bones and contribute to inflammation.

2. Phosphoric Acid

Coke is your enemy. In fact, all carbonated beverages with high amounts of refined sugars can eat away bone matter and deplete your bones of calcium, if taken excessively. Cola-based sodas are proven to significantly decrease bone mineral density, according to researchers at Tufts University.

3. Disodium EDTA

Disodium EDTA is a food additive that is used for flavor and color preservation, mostly found in canned foods and pickles. Primarily used to stop foods from decaying, this substance can deprive your bones of essential nutrients by pulling minerals like calcium, zinc, iron, and manganese away from the digestive tract and out for excretion.

4. Hydrogenated Oils

Hydrogenation can destroy all the Vitamin K in oils, which is an essential nutrient for strong bones. Found in cookies, pastries, donuts and junk food, hydrogenated oils typically used in commercial baking can even block the arteries.

5. Aspartame

An artificial sweetener, commonly found in sodas, aspartame can trigger anxiety, nausea, depression, muscle spasms, and wreck bone health.

6. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Although widely avoided, MSG is still used as a flavor enhancer in many processed foods. MSG has the potential to excessively stimulate our nerve cells, which can lead to dangerous seizures, migraines, and even depression. With so many health menaces, it can possibly reduce bone density as well.
Sadly, even when the glutamate industry knows it’s a toxic substance, they still sell it.

How to Undo the Damage

Luckily, weak bones can easily be strengthened. The first step is of course to ditch all the above-mentioned toxic foods from your diet.
You should ideally eat a bowl of rich greens like broccoli and okra, with lunch or dinner and consume a rich source of calcium in your diet. Dairy foods like milk and cheese are a good source. Spend 30 minutes daily in the sun to allow the body to soak up some Vitamin D.

Doing these simple steps consistently can help your bones regain their lost strength. For more nutritional tips visit www.ocwc.ca .