The body is a complex myriad of structures and systems that work synergistically to allow function and movement, and ultimately allows us to do the activities that we love. Everything in our bodies is interconnected – including the musculoskeletal (MSK) and related neurological systems that are comprised of bones, muscles, joints, nerves, and connective tissue.
The human body is pretty amazing. It can convert food into energy and sunshine into vitamins. And, when everything is working as it should, the human body also has the ability to heal itself. When you get injured, a protective response is triggered that dilates blood vessels to improve blood flow to the injured area.
Back pain and other musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect a staggering number of people in Canada and around the world, so many that it can be considered an epidemic. In Canada alone, these statistics from a 2009 report published by the Work Foundation are attention getting: 1 in 8 Canadians report having chronic back problems 12% of Canadians
If you follow us on Twitter, you already know that an estimated 11 million Canadians over the age of 12 suffer from musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions each year. Even more surprising however, is how much that number is expected to increase as the population ages. By 2031, over 15 million Canadians are likely to experience MSK
For the past couple of weeks, we have been examining a model of care that treats the patient as a partner within the healthcare team. In this model, the patient is seen as a whole person rather than focusing on the illness alone, which ultimately places the patient rather than the symptoms at the centre
Back pain is a reality that most of us have or will have to deal with at some point in our lives. The causes of musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are varied and not entirely understood – they could be related to genetics, mechanical issues, and lifestyle choices, just to name a few. People from every walk
We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: low back pain (LBP) is at epidemic levels in Canada. Over 80% of Canadians can expect to suffer an episode of LBP in their lifetime, and it is a leading cause of disability and prolonged work absences.1 Chronic and recurrent low back pain is also responsible
Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries and disorders can be devastating for Canadian workers and their families, taking a heavy toll on their health and well-being. Lost time and productivity at work, and even early retirement, carries financial implications that also extend to employers and their businesses. In fact, work-related MSK injuries and disorders cost Canadian employers billions
It’s the time of year for family and friends, food and good cheer. However, for a lot of people, the season can be hectic, stressful and exhausting. Your to-do list may be long, and you may feel anxious about completing it in time. But, are you taking care of yourself while you hurtle around
Most Canadians would probably agree that if there was one thing we, as a nation, truly value, it is our universal healthcare system. We take pride in living in a country that ensures all residents have reasonable access to primary care. But, is our healthcare really free? Unfortunately, it is not. In fact, health benefits