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types of massage therapy

Which Type of Massage Is Right for You?

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An Edmonton Guide

You know your body needs attention, but choosing from the many types of massage therapy can feel like another task on an already crowded to-do list. Should you book a relaxation massage for stress, request deep tissue work for stubborn tension, or choose a sports-focused treatment to support your active lifestyle?

The right answer depends less on which treatment sounds most intensive and more on what you want from your appointment. Your current symptoms, activity level, health history, pressure preference, and wellness goals can all help guide the decision.

What Are the Main Types of Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy includes a range of hands-on approaches to muscles and other soft tissues. Some sessions emphasize relaxation, while others focus on a particular area, movement restriction, or recovery goal.

These approaches are not rigid categories. A Registered Massage Therapist may combine suitable techniques and adjust the session based on your needs, comfort, and response to treatment.

Relaxation Massage for Stress and General Tension

A relaxation massage generally uses smooth, flowing movements and light-to-moderate pressure. The goal is to create a calm experience while easing general muscle tension.

You might consider this approach when:

  • Stress has left you feeling tense or run down
  • You want a full-body massage without intensive pressure
  • You are new to professional massage
  • You want to make relaxation part of your wellness routine
  • Your body feels tired, but you do not have a specific injury or problem area

Gentle treatment does not mean ineffective treatment. When stress contributes to tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, or difficulty unwinding, a calming massage may be more appropriate than an intense session.

Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage for Focused Concerns

Therapeutic massage focuses on an individual concern or functional goal. Your therapist may use slower movements, sustained pressure, and other manual techniques to work with areas of persistent muscle tension.

Deep tissue techniques may be appropriate when you experience:

  • Recurring neck or shoulder tension
  • Tightness related to desk work or repetitive tasks
  • A particular area that feels restricted
  • Muscle tension associated with an active lifestyle
  • Ongoing discomfort that has already been medically assessed

Deep tissue massage is not simply a harder version of relaxation massage. The therapist works deliberately and adapts the pressure to the tissue, treatment goal, and your comfort.

You should be able to breathe normally and avoid bracing against the pressure. Tell your therapist when a sensation feels too intense, sharp, or otherwise uncomfortable.

Sports Massage for Active Bodies

Sports massage is not reserved for professional athletes. It may suit runners, cyclists, weightlifters, dancers, recreational athletes, and anyone whose work or hobbies place repeated demands on particular muscle groups.

The treatment may focus on:

  • Areas repeatedly used during training
  • General recovery between workouts
  • Mobility needed for a particular activity
  • Muscle tension caused by repetitive movement
  • Preparing for or recovering from an event

Timing matters. A vigorous treatment immediately before an important competition may not be the best choice, while a lighter or more targeted session could fit the situation. Tell your therapist about your training schedule, recent workload, upcoming events, and any injuries being managed by another healthcare provider.

Hot Stone and Specialized Massage Options

Some people benefit from treatments that incorporate heat, tools, movement, or focused soft-tissue techniques.

Hot stone massage combines massage with the warmth of smooth, heated stones. The warmth can create a soothing experience and may help tight muscles feel more comfortable during treatment.

At Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic, available options may also include cupping, RAPID NeuroFascial Reset, and stretch therapy. Depending on your assessment and therapist, these approaches may be used to support goals related to tension, mobility, or movement restrictions.

Not every technique is suitable for every person. Ask whether a specialized service fits your health history and whether your chosen therapist offers that treatment.

How to Choose the Right Massage for Your Body and Goals

Start with the result you want rather than trying to diagnose yourself. A clear description of how you feel and what you want to improve gives your therapist more useful information than requesting the strongest treatment on the menu.

Choose Among Types of Massage Therapy by Your Main Goal

Use this quick guide as a starting point:

  • For stress and general relaxation: Consider a relaxation-focused treatment with light or moderate pressure.
  • For persistent muscle tension: Ask about a therapeutic appointment that can focus on the affected areas.
  • For sports or workout recovery: Discuss your activity, training schedule, and performance goals when booking.
  • For warmth and a calming experience: Ask whether hot stone massage is appropriate for you.
  • For mobility or flexibility: A session incorporating stretching or movement-focused techniques may be helpful.
  • For recurring discomfort: Explain where it occurs, what aggravates it, and whether it has been assessed.
  • For ongoing wellness maintenance: Work with your therapist to choose an approach and schedule based on how your body responds.

You do not need to arrive with the perfect treatment name. A skilled therapist will ask questions, assess your needs within their scope of practice, and recommend an appropriate approach.

Match the Pressure to Your Comfort, Not Your Pain Tolerance

One of the most common massage misconceptions is that more pressure always creates better results. In reality, effective pressure depends on the person, the area being treated, and the goal of the session.

Pressure that causes you to tense your muscles, hold your breath, or pull away may work against a comfortable treatment. Productive massage can feel focused or intense, but it should remain within a level you can tolerate.

Pressure preferences can also change. You may enjoy firm work around your shoulders but need a gentler approach elsewhere. You might prefer a deeper session one month and a calming treatment the next.

Communication is part of the treatment. You can ask for more or less pressure at any time.

Types of Massage Therapy at a Glance

ApproachCommon goalTypical pressureMay suit you when
Relaxation massageCalming and general tension reliefLight to moderateYou feel stressed, tired, or new to massage
Therapeutic massageAddressing a specific concernCustomizedYou have a defined area of tension or restriction
Deep tissue techniquesFocused work on persistent tightnessModerate to firmYou prefer slower, targeted treatment
Sports massageSupporting activity and recoveryCustomized to timing and goalTraining or repetitive activity affects how you move
Hot stone massageWarmth and relaxationUsually moderate and adjustableHeat helps you feel comfortable and relaxed
Stretch therapyMobility-focused careGuided and controlledYou want to work on flexibility or movement
RAPID NeuroFascial ResetTargeted soft-tissue treatmentTechnique-specificYou have an appropriate pain or mobility concern
CuppingAn addition to a broader treatment planAdjustable suctionYour therapist recommends it for your goals

This comparison is a guide rather than a diagnosis. Your therapist can help refine the choice after discussing your health history and expectations.

Why the “Deepest” Massage Is Not Always the Best Massage

Firm pressure has a place, but intensity should not become the measure of a successful massage. The most appropriate session is the one that matches your goal and allows your body to respond without unnecessary discomfort.

Someone dealing with stress and poor sleep may prefer a calming full-body appointment. A desk worker with a persistent tight area may benefit from focused therapeutic work. An active person may need treatment tailored to a training schedule rather than an indiscriminately forceful massage.

A thoughtful therapist adjusts the session as it progresses. That may mean working more slowly, changing pressure, spending additional time on one area, or combining techniques.

Treat massage as a collaborative appointment. You bring knowledge of how your body feels; your therapist brings clinical training and hands-on experience.

What to Tell Your Massage Therapist Before Treatment

A short conversation before your massage helps your therapist plan a more personalized session. Be ready to share:

  • Where you feel pain, tightness, or restriction
  • When the problem began
  • Which activities make it better or worse
  • Whether your concern affects work, exercise, sleep, or daily movement
  • Recent injuries, surgeries, or changes in your health
  • Relevant medications or medical advice
  • Pregnancy or postpartum considerations
  • Areas you do not want treated
  • Your preferred pressure
  • What you hope to feel or do more comfortably afterward

Clear goals can be simple. You might want to turn your head more comfortably while driving, recover from a demanding training week, reduce general shoulder tension, or make time for genuine relaxation.

Keep communicating during treatment. Your therapist cannot feel exactly what you feel, so timely feedback helps them adjust.

When to Postpone Massage or Seek Medical Guidance

Massage therapy can support a broader health and wellness plan, but it does not replace medical diagnosis or urgent care.

Contact an appropriate healthcare professional before booking if you have unexplained or severe symptoms, a suspected fracture, a serious acute injury, or new numbness, weakness, or loss of function. You may also need medical clearance following surgery or when managing certain complex conditions.

Massage may need to be postponed when you have:

  • A fever or contagious illness
  • An active skin infection
  • Open wounds in the treatment area
  • Unexplained swelling, redness, or heat
  • An acute injury that has not been assessed
  • Medical instructions to avoid massage

When uncertain, tell the clinic about your circumstances before your appointment. This allows the team to provide appropriate guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Massage

Can Different Types of Massage Therapy Be Combined?

Yes, when the techniques are appropriate for your needs. A session might include broad relaxation work followed by focused treatment around the shoulders, or therapeutic massage combined with guided stretching.

The treatment does not need to follow a fixed formula. Your therapist may adjust the plan based on your goals, comfort, and how your body responds that day.

How Often Should I Book Massage Therapy?

There is no universal schedule. The right frequency depends on why you are seeking treatment, your activity level, how long the concern has been present, your response to massage, your schedule, and your budget or benefits coverage.

Someone booking for occasional relaxation may choose appointments as needed. A person addressing a particular concern might initially book more consistently before moving to a maintenance schedule.

Your therapist can recommend a reasonable plan without promising a specific result. Reassess that plan as your goals and needs change.

Do I need to know exactly what to book?
No. Describe your primary goal when scheduling, and ask the clinic which appointment or therapist may be the best fit.

Is soreness after massage normal?
Some people experience temporary tenderness after focused treatment. Speak with your therapist about what to expect and contact an appropriate healthcare professional if you experience severe, unusual, or persistent symptoms.

Can I change the pressure during my appointment?
Absolutely. You remain in control of your comfort and can request an adjustment at any point.

Find the Right Massage at Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic

Choosing a massage becomes much easier when you begin with your goals. Whether you want a restorative break from stress, focused attention for muscle tension, or support for an active lifestyle, the team at Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic can help personalize your appointment.

Explore massage therapy at OCWC or book a massage online through Jane. You can also call the Edmonton clinic at 780-455-2112 to discuss which appointment may suit your needs.

How Chiropractic Helps Those That Suffer From Migraine Headaches

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If you’ve ever had a migraine you know that it’s more than just a headache. The debilitating pain can be accompanied by nausea and other symptoms – and it’s more common than you may think.

It is estimated that 18 percent of women suffer from migraines while 6 percent of men are migraine sufferers. It most commonly affects people who are between the ages of 25 and 55, but even young children have been diagnosed. Migraines can stop you in your tracks, but there are treatments that can help. Chiropractic care has been shown to help ease the pain, intensity, and frequency of migraines.

What is a Migraine?

Migraines are vicious headaches that can last several minutes to several hours or even days. It is characterized by intense pulsing or a throbbing sensation that is typically confined to one area of the head. It is often accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and extreme sensitivity to sound and light. The pain can be so severe that you can barely function. Many people find themselves confined to bed in a darkened room, waiting for it to pass.

Many times migraine sufferers report experiencing an aura, or sensory warning symptoms, such as strange smells, blind spots, flashes of light, or tingling in your leg or arm. They also tend to run in families. If one parent is a migraine sufferer the child has a 40 percent chance of having migraines as well. If both parents get migraines that chance jumps to 90 percent. It is the 8th most debilitating illness on a global scale.

For the most part, doctors do not know much about what causes migraines. However, there are some things that have been identified as migraine triggers:

  • Hormonal changes – at certain times during the month, women experience fluctuations in estrogen which can trigger migraines
  • Oral contraceptives – medications that change or replace hormones can make headaches worse
  • Certain foods – processed foods, MSG, salty foods, aged cheeses
  • Fasting or skipping meals
  • Aspartame
  • Alcohol
  • Stress
  • Sensory overstimulation
  • Dehydration
  • Intense physical exertion
  • Too much or too little sleep
  • Medications

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Migraine Sufferers

Many doctors believe that headaches and migraines may be caused by a spine that is out of alignment. When your spine is misaligned your entire body suffers. It can irritate the nerves that run from the brain to the spine causing a headache. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve the pain of migraines. In fact, many people report a distinct difference after just one session.

A Doctor of Chiropractic will align your spine and work with you to create a wellness plan that includes lifestyle changes and diet. Making changes to your sleep patterns and eliminating certain foods from your diet can help prevent migraines. By creating a whole body wellness program, you and your chiropractor can not only help prevent your migraines, but other health conditions as well.

Your chiropractor may also recommend that you keep a journal to help you pinpoint your own unique migraine triggers. You will record the foods you eat, environmental factors that may affect you, stressors, and sleep patterns, as well as when you have migraines, how long they last, and their severity. By tracking these things, you can determine what may be causing your migraines and make adjustments to your lifestyle, thus preventing them. Incorporating chiropractic care as part of your whole body maintenance, as well as migraine prevention, can help you stave off these headaches so you can get on with your life.

If you or a loved one suffers from migraine headaches, make sure you give our office a call at 780-455-2112. Our Doctor of Chiropractic is here to help!

A Beginner’s Guide to Acupuncture

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Many people do not understand the healing benefits of acupuncture. In some ways acupuncture is fascinating. Fine needles inserted into the body to stimulate healing? The typical western health model may leave someone scratching there heads at that mode of treatment.

However, when you get a basic understanding of this treatment, you will understand how beneficial it can to get fine needles inserted into your body, with the help of professionals only.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of fine, stainless steel, sterile needles into specific points of your body. These points are known as acupuncture points and they are located in 12 main meridians that are connected to different organs in your body. By doing this, energy is released from these organs so you can heal.

What Did The Ancients Use During Acupuncture Treatment?

In the ancient times, instead of using fine needles, sharp bones and stones were used. Even when simple surgeries had to be done, these instruments were used. However as time has gone by, medicine evolved as well. There was invention of gold, bronze and silver needles were made and then finally stainless steel needles (used today). However, there are some acupuncturists who used golden needles.

The Physiological Effects of Acupuncture

  • It promotes blood circulation
  • It releases endorphins and neurotransmitters in your body
  • It stimulates the fibers of nerves
  • It also releases serotonin in the body
  • It releases adrenocorticotropic hormone in your body
  • It lessen inflammations
  • It reduces stress
  • It tends to relax contracted/shortened muscles
  • It restores the homeostasis in the body

Is Acupuncture A Form of Therapy?

Yes, it is, but keep in mind it is not magic. Depending on the condition, you have and if it is acute or chronic, the longevity of the treatment is decided. When the condition is chronic, it will take longer to treat, but when it is acute, it might take 2 to 3 sessions.

Most of the times, acupuncture is done so an individual’s body systems can be strengthened, but the sessions must be attended regularly. Moreover, when someone starts getting regular acupuncture treatments, there will be a change in diet, lifestyle, thought patterns, exercise, etc.

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

Everyone, whether you are a child, pregnant female, a pro-athlete, an elderly, strong or weak person, you can gain the benefits of acupuncture.

Conditions That Can Be Treated By Acupuncture

According to the World Health Organization, many people suffering from diseases and conditions can experience benefits of acupuncture :

  • Acute and chronic gastritis
  • Sprains
  • Sciatica
  • Depression
  • Correction of malposition of fetus
  • Neck pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Dental pain
  • Low back pain
  • Temporomandibular (TMJ) dysfunction
  • Headache
  • Induction of labor
  • Morning sickness
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Stroke
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Allergic rhinitis, including hay fever
  • Postoperative pain
  • Adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy

 

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has qualified registered massage therapists on staff. Give our clinic a call at 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.

6 Things to Know About Acupuncture

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Over the years, acupuncture has become more and more popular because individuals see it as an alternative to western medicine. However, even now, many people do not know what to expect when they go in for their first visit.

Although, there are different techniques and styles of acupuncture,  there are the common tips to know about acupuncture.

1) It Will Be Treating More Than Just Pain

According to acupuncturists, patients must not skip sessions because they are feeling sick. Acupuncture not only aids with stomach viruses and common colds, but it can help with emotional and mental stress, skin diseases, dentistry, gout, cancer, neurological disorders, and infections, according to the World Health Organization.

2) Do Not Go On an Empty Stomach

It is important to have a –somewhat- full stomach before going in for your treatment. It is not important to indulge in a big meal, but your body just needs something that will energize you so you can get maximum benefits. If you get acupuncture on an empty stomach, it could lead to fainting, lightheadedness, and even dizziness.

3) You Will Not Need To Take Your Clothes Off

Sometimes, acupuncturists will need to be able to reach under your clothes, but if that needs to happen, they will put a covering on you so only some of your skin is exposed. You must keep in mind that wearing loose clothes is recommended so your sleeves or pants can be rolled up easily.

4) You Will Need to Get Your Pulse Check, Show Your Tongue, and Get an Abdomen Press

Since acupuncturists want to provide you with maximum benefits, they will want to see the “state of your internal organs.” These methods allow them to determine the ideal treatment for you. Similar to reflexology on your feet and hands, your pulse, the different parts of your tongue and abdomen have connections with the organs and systems within your body.

5) Be Prepared For Embarrassing Questions

For a thorough physical examination, the acupuncturist will ask you questions related to your lifestyle and health. Most of the time, the common questions will ask you for detailed answers related to your urination, bowel movements, and menstruation (for females). The more details you go in, the better the diagnosis will be.

6) Acupuncturists Use Tools Other than Needles Also

Needles are the main tool used during acupuncture, but acupuncturists have started looking for more tools that fall under the “Chinese Medicine” category. This includes Tuina (massage), cupping (suction of your skin), Chinese herbs, acupressure (using pressure on acupuncture points instead of needles), Guasha (scraping the skin), Moxibustion (heating the skin), or Qi Gong.

These are the top six things you must know when you are going to get acupuncture done. Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has excellent acupuncturists on staff. Check out our website @ schroeder.wpengine.com or give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to get started.

Does Massage Even Work?

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Before getting a massage, people usually wonder “does massage even work?” We leave the final decision up to you, but it is true that massage therapy has endless benefits.

The most common benefits are mentioned below:

Alleviates Stress

Whether you are getting a sports massage or a relaxation massage, your stress levels will be lower for longer periods.  This will benefit you thru increased energy levels will, less pain, and enhanced physical/emotional moods.

Intensive Muscle Relaxation

The main goal of massage therapy is to focus on the areas of your body that are aching. This will relieve tension from those muscles, improve your flexibility and provide  relaxation to your entire body.

Massage therapy is also known to release endorphins into your body, which leads to a boost in the serotonin and dopamine levels in your body. These beneficial hormones help your body emotionally and physically. While they deal with pain management and they promote healing, they will definitely calm your nerves.

Better Circulation

The long-term benefits of massage therapy should never be underestimated. Those who get massage therapy consistently will benefit from better blood circulation. The reason why better circulation is so important is because rich blood heals the tense, stiff, and damaged muscles.

Relieving muscle tensions improves blood circulation to your injured or affected muscles. This way, there is more oxygen and nutrients getting to your damaged tissues. When there is “increased activity” in these affected areas, there is less swelling and stiffness in your joints and muscles.

To get started with your massage, give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 or check out our website @ schroeder.wpengine.com.

 

carpel tunnel syndrome

3 Ways Chiropractic Can Help Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Many people think of chiropractic as a treatment for neck and back problems, but in truth it is a whole body wellness practice and the neck and back are just one aspect. One application that is garnering a great deal of attention is the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Chiropractic is an effective, non-invasive treatment for CTS, relieving the pain and promoting healing without the use of medications. There are three ways the chiropractic has been proven to be effective in the treatment of CTS.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive stress injury, a condition that affects the hands and wrists. The most common symptoms include tingling, numbness, and weakness in the middle finger, index finger, and thumb as well as pain in the wrist or hand that gets worse at night.

It is typically found in hairdressers, typists, mechanics, cashiers, and other people who perform repetitive hand motions for long periods of time and it is estimated that about 3 percent of adults in the United States will deal with CTS at some time in their lives.

About 50 percent of workplace injuries in the United States are attributed to CTS. There was a time when it was believed to affect women more than men, but research has shown that a person’s occupation plays a large part in how it is contracted and gender only plays a small role – if any at all.

The carpal tunnel is a band of fibrous tissue that lies on the front side of the wrist. It holds the blood vessels, nerves, and tendons that are necessary for the hand to move and work as it should. When that carpal tunnel becomes inflamed, damaged, or pressure on that area compresses the arteries and nerves, CTS develops. It usually starts slowly and the symptoms gradually worsen as the condition progresses.

How Chiropractic helps Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are three primary ways that chiropractors treat CTS. These three common treatments have been shown to be very effective in treating the pain and the condition as a whole.

Adjustments of the upper spine, arm, and wrist – When the spine is not in alignment, it could exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome. A chiropractor will use spinal manipulation to realign the spine to its correct position. These manipulations, or adjustments, are often performed by hand, but at times he or she may use special devices or a special table made specifically for chiropractic treatments. In addition to the spine, the chiropractor may make adjustments to other areas of the body such as the arm and wrist.

Ultrasound therapy – This is another type of therapy employed by chiropractors. It uses low energy sound or high energy sound – both outside the range of a human’s ability to hear. The device that is used emits these sound waves that are extremely focused and penetrate the body’s tissue at a very deep level. These sound waves can be very effective in reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and relaxing muscles. It may be used as a stand-alone treatment or with chiropractic treatments.

Wrist Supports – The purpose of wrist supports is to keep the wrist properly aligned with the rest of the arm to reduce pressure and compression. It is often used as a preventative measure against carpal tunnel. The chiropractor may choose this option if the patient does repetitive work that may cause the condition. This is often combined with regular chiropractic treatments such as spinal alignment and is used to prevent conditions such as CTS from developing.

When treating carpal tunnel, the chiropractor may also suggest specific exercises as well as a dietary program to promote overall wellness. This is intended to keep the patient from experiencing carpal tunnel as well as other conditions.

For more information about our clinic, visit our website @ www.ocwc.ca or call 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today

acupuncture, benefits

Everything You Need To Know About Acupuncture

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Acupuncture is the art of healing which has been used for thousands of years and practiced throughout the world. Although it has treated many people successfully, there is a misconception when it comes to acupuncture. It is not understood properly in the western countries causing it to be seen as a painful retreat.

Acupuncture has many benefits, but since there is lack of awareness regarding it, there are millions of people that are missing out on this therapy.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a Chinese medical practice that does not use any medication to treat the disease. The acupuncturist inserts thin needles in the pressure points of your body. These points can be on your back, leg, head, and other parts of your body.

The needles are often inserted in the areas where there will be no pain experienced. However, what an individual should keep in mind is that any pain experienced depends on the person’s pain endurance levels.

People often think that acupuncture helps with pain but the truth is that I can help relieve stress and treat diseases.

Does it hurt?

Having needles inserted in your body can arouse this question. Similar to the blood test prick, acupuncture can be painful for some and some might not even feel it.

The truth about this treatment is that it does not hurt. The needles do not go deep enough into your body to encounter the nerves. The needles are so fine that some people might not even feel them. Some people find the needle insertion relaxing. The needle pressure promotes blood flow and decreases inflammation.

Is it safe?

When going for acupuncture, you need to make sure you are going to practiced acupuncturists. Do not make compromises on your health so make sure you choose the right person. Go to place that is reputable and hygienic.

What are the Benefits?

Acupuncture has many benefits. Here are the most common ones:

  • Acupunctures reduce headaches and migraines. Studies have proven that acupuncture gives long-term relief from headaches and migraines.
  • Acupuncture decreases chronic pain that is present in your body.
  • It reduces stress levels and anxiety by balancing the hormones in your body.

Would You Go For It?

After finding out the benefits of acupuncture, would you opt for it? It comes with long-term benefits and allows you to live a healthy, future life. To find out more about our office visit www.ocwc.ca or give our office a call @ 780-445-2112 to book  your appointment today.

4 Ways Chiropractic Can Help Those That Suffer From Fibromyalgia

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Fibromyalgia is one of the most common chronic pain conditions.
This condition is very problematic because it is extremely difficult to diagnose. It is also difficult to treat because it tends to be a chronic condition. Many doctors use pain medication that treats the symptoms, but there is evidence that shows chiropractic treatment as a very effective way to treat fibromyalgia, minimize the pain, and even control.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Doctors don’t really know what fibromyalgia is or what causes it, but researchers believe that that the condition affects the way that the brain processes pain, causing it to be amplified and spread throughout the body. Symptoms of fibromyalgia include pain, excessive sleeping, mood swings, fatigue, memory loss, fuzziness, and depression. It seems to be more prevalent in women than in men.

The condition may develop suddenly after severe psychological stress or physical trauma such as infection or surgery. However, it may also develop gradually with no known triggers. Often people who suffer from fibromyalgia also have irritable bowel syndrome, tension headaches, anxiety, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and depression.

4 ways that Chiropractors can Help Fibromyalgia Patients

There are four primary ways that a chiropractor can help patients with fibromyalgia. Chiropractic focuses on whole body wellness and has been shown to be very effective in treating the condition.

Chiropractic Adjustments. This chiropractic technique helps to realign your body and re-establish the connection between the nervous system and nerves throughout the body. It essentially resets the nervous system so that the brain can process pain more accurately. In fibromyalgia the pain is believed to be caused by the central nervous system receiving faulty or inaccurate pain signals and the result is pain felt throughout the body.

Physical Therapy. This is an important part of treatment that your chiropractor will recommend. Fibromyalgia can cause severe muscular pain and patient stop moving or exercising because it simply hurts too much. When the patient stops moving they lose muscle tone which actually exacerbates the effects of the condition.

Lifestyle Adjustment Recommendations. The chiropractor may also make recommendations regarding lifestyle adjustments. This can include incorporating exercise into the patient’s daily routine or finding ways to control the pain without medication. A patient who spends most of their day sitting behind a desk may be advised to take periodic walks. The recommendations will depend on the patient’s everyday activities and lifestyle.

Nutritional Recommendations. Nutrition plays a large part in every aspect of the body. It can cure conditions and help alleviate symptoms. The chiropractor will often make recommendations regarding changes to the diet and supplements. It helps both the psychological aspects of the condition as well as they psychological ones. This type of treatment is often recommended in conjunction with chiropractic treatments as part of a whole body wellness approach.

Chiropractic treatments have been shown to be very successful in treating fibromyalgia patients, particularly in alleviating pain. Patients report a significant decrease in neck, back, and leg pain after just one visit. Because it provides immediate relief without medication, chiropractic is regarded as one of the best treatments for the condition. When the spine is properly aligned the entire body functions more efficiently and effectively.

One of the most attractive benefits of chiropractic treatments is that it treats pain and mobility issues without the use of medications. In the case of fibromyalgia, because so little is actually known about it, chiropractic is an optimal treatment method because it does work but it does not put an additional burden on the body by introducing medications.

For more information on our clinic, check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca or call 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.

 

How Acupuncture Helps Athletes

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Acupuncture is a fantastic therapy for athletes, but that does not mean that others cannot gain from its benefits. Whether you are a devoted yogi, a gym rat or a marathoner, acupuncture has the ability to improve your performance while providing you exceptional health benefits.

Two in One Benefit

Acupuncture is highly recommended and effective for any sport injuries as it eases pain, speeds up the recovery process and improves range of motion. This is done by minimizing the inflammation, bruising, and swelling caused by the injury. Acupuncture allows the muscles to relax and relieves spasms, which leads to lowering the body’s pain responses and helps with blood circulation.

Studies prove the benefits of Acupuncture

Studies have showed that acupuncture can remove all types of pain, ranging from neck pain to shoulder pain and any chronic pains. In addition, the World Health Organization states that acupuncture is a safe and effective way of treating injuries, alleviating acute & chronic pains and any orthopedic conditions. In this case, it is a fantastic option for athletes as their bodies are always in use and can suffer from wear and tear.

Acupuncture naturally boosts energy levels, helps with post-workout recovery and can visibly improve the performance levels of any athlete. Athletes who make acupuncture a part of their regular training regime get better results, are prone to lesser injuries. This means athletes can have more fun when they are playing their sport.

4 Benefits of Acupuncture

1.      Lessens Anxiety and Stress

Athletes often are stressed before a big race or feel anxious before a big game; therefore, acupuncture is a healthy resort. Acupuncture has the ability to balance the mind and lower anxiety and stress levels.

2.      Improves Sleep

Acupuncture is a safe and effective way of solving sleep-related problems. Getting acupuncture regularly can be helpful, as it will make you feel well rested and energized.

3.      Stronger Immune System

Studies have showed that acupuncture improves the functions of immune cells. It increases the production of T-cells that destroy bacteria and defends the body against viruses.

4.      Increases Awareness

People that get acupuncture feel more aware of their body, mind and emotions at deeper and subtler levels. Being mindful about you and your surroundings is a key trait that every athlete must have on and off the field.

Consider adding acupuncture to help support your training activities. Our clinic offers acupuncture to help solve an array of problems. To book an appointment call 780-455-2112 today.

Shin Splints

GOT SHIN SPLINTS?

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I’m Dr. Kent Ferguson, in my chiropractic practice we see many conditions holding people back from being fully active. Shin splints are one of those conditions. Chiropractic care is a powerful choice for treating shin splints and reducing their recurrence. Three significant ways chiropractic treatment benefits those suffering from shin splints are:

REDUCTION IN PAIN

Chiropractic care is proven to relieve the pain associated with bodily injuries and conditions, including shin splints. Sometimes one visit is enough to relieve the pain, other times the pain decreases over a series of appointments. Being able to diminish a high degree of pain down to a manageable level is possible for shin splint patients through chiropractic.

FULL BODY ALIGNMENT

The premise behind chiropractic is that it treats the body as a whole, and, in doing so, promotes healing and health to the injured or diseased areas. Chiropractors may work on your neck to help your calf. With shin splints, your chiropractor may align your spine and joints to lessen the impact of activity on your shins. Again, the entire body is treated in order to create the best environment for health restoration.

DRUG FREE TREATMENT OPTION

A primary benefit of chiropractic care is it requires no over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Individuals who suffer from stomach issues, or simply prefer to avoid drugs, find chiropractic visits a productive alternative to manage pain and promote healing.

If you are one of the many people dealing with shin splints, consider chiropractic care as your main treatment option or in conjunction with other modes of treatment. Within a few visits, you can experience pain reduction, and enjoy a decreased risk of ever dealing with painful shin splints again.

For information about our clinic visit www.ocwc.ca or call 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.