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Graston Technique for Hamstring Injury Recovery

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Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries encountered by athletes and people who are physically active. These injuries can be caused by sudden acceleration motions, deceleration, or structural and functional imbalances within the body’s musculoskeletal system. While there is no one magical solution that works for every individual with a hamstring injury, using Graston technique can offer benefits that can speed up the injury healing process. 

What is Graston Technique

Graston technique is a soft tissue mobilization therapy that uses advanced instruments to break down fibrous adhesions that are formed in the body due to injury or overuse. The technique applies controlled pressure to the targeted soft tissue using specially designed tools. 

How It Helps: 

1. Pain relief: 

One of the biggest benefits of Graston technique is the immediate reduction of pain. The technique employs a deep tissue massage technique that helps clients reduce muscle tension while breaking up fibrous adhesions that cause pain and discomfort in the tissue. 

2. Improved Range of Motion: 

Hamstring injuries can lead to decreased flexibility and range of motion of the muscles. Graston technique can enhance flexibility while breaking down adhesions. It can help loosen tissue, promotes ease of movement, and makes it easier to engage in physical activity. 

3. Accelerates the Recovery Process: 

This soft tissue technique can speed up healing and recovery rates from the hamstring injury. The instruments used in the therapy help identify soft tissue limitations that hinder recovery and effectively break them down with advanced technology. Soft tissue regeneration is effectively speeded up with this therapy, accelerating the overall recovery process. 

4. Reduces Scarring: 

This soft tissue technique helps to reduce the development of scar tissue at the site of injury. Fibrous tissue buildup typically overcompensates following an injury and restricts mobility. Graston technique breaks down and stretches the tissue while improving an individual’s overall mobility. 

5. Fewer Complications: 

Patients that undergo Graston technique are less likely to develop complications after the injury and are less likely to re-injure themselves. The technique helps improve the body’s overall function by allowing the muscle to function correctly while reducing the scar tissue that impairs its movement. 

This soft tissue technique is an effective therapy method for people with hamstring injuries. It not only provides relief from symptoms like pain and discomfort but also helps to accelerate recovery and improve the range of motion. Graston technique helps break down adhesions in soft tissue and produces long-lasting results. 

Once treatment has been completed, athletes and individuals return to physical activity. They experience improved overall physical function. If you are suffering from a hamstring injury, seeking graston technique therapy through a licensed therapist will provide significant benefits. Call today @ 780-455-2112. Check out our office @ ocwc.ca.

Say Goodbye to Your Stiff Neck: Simple Solutions That Work

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The Bottom Line

Around 20% of people experience neck discomfort daily

That nagging, stiff neck?

It’s often a sign that your daily habits are taking a toll on your muscles and joints.

Between working at a desk, scrolling on phones, and binge-watching shows, most of us spend hours in positions that strain our necks.

When your neck muscles don’t get the support they need, the extra stress shifts to your spine—altering movement, increasing tension, and, over time, leading to persistent pain.

The symptoms can vary widely.


Why it Matters

A stiff neck doesn’t just appear out of nowhere—it’s often the result of muscle fatigue and joint restrictions caused by prolonged poor posture.

That added strain can make it harder for your neck to move freely, leading to discomfort when you turn your head or even just wake up in the morning.

So, if you’re wondering how to find stiff neck relief, try these three simple strategies.

3 Simple Strategies to Relieve a Stiff Neck


1) Stretch and strengthen daily.

Gentle range-of-motion exercises help keep your neck flexible and strong, reducing stiffness.

2) Upgrade your pillow.

A supportive pillow that fits your sleeping style can help maintain a neutral spine position overnight.

3) Prioritize movement.

Chiropractic adjustments can improve neck mobility and ensure your spinal joints are functioning as they should.


Next Steps

Small, consistent changes can make a world of difference when it comes to finding lasting relief from neck stiffness—and we’re here to help!

Our team focuses on more than just adjustments.

We provide tailored exercises and lifestyle recommendations to help you keep moving and feeling great between visits.

If neck pain has been slowing you down and you’re looking for natural neck pain solutions in Edmonton schedule an appointment today.

You’ll be glad you did!


Science Sources:

How to Get Rid of a Stiff Neck. Cleveland Clinic. 2021.
The Epidemiology of Neck Pain. Physiopedia. 2025.

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: What’s the Difference? Can Chiropractic Help?

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Discs are the cushioning in your spine that act as shock absorbers and prevent vertebrae from rubbing together. Discs consist of cartilage. The outer layer is tough cartilage, while the interior of discs is softer. Your vertebral discs wear out over time. Injuries can cause a disc to bulge or become herniated. The cartilage can become stiff and dehydrated, giving you less cushion and shrinking the space between your vertebrae. If the space between vertebrae narrows, you might experience pain, stiffness or poor range of motion in the area.

When You Have a Bulging Disc

A bulging disc occurs when the outer layer of your disc becomes compressed, and the disc becomes more flattened. The whole structure doesn’t have to be impacted, but the bulge tends to be fairly even throughout the disc. While damage can occur if you have a bulging disc, decompression strategies to open up the area with chiropractic care can reduce pain and inflammation in the area.

Understanding a Herniated Disc

Herniated discs are different from a bulging disc. When you have a herniated disc, there is damage to the tough outer layer of cartilage and the inner layer is protruding out from the tear. Your doctor might also call a herniated disc a ruptured or slipped disc. It means you have damage to the outer layer of your disc, and you are more likely to experience pain. Herniated discs tend to reach nerve endings more readily than bulging discs, resulting in nerve pain that can be difficult to treat.

Chiropractic Assessments For Disc Problems

Chiropractic care looks at the overall function of your spine to determine what can be done about areas that are out of alignment. You can find pain relief by working with a chiropractor, but it’s important to work with your chiropractor on a consistent basis. Chiropractic treatment begins with a careful assessment of what is going on in your spine to cause pain, stiffness or inflammation.  Your chiropractor will want to look at any imaging that has been done on your spine to see what your discs look like. Once problem areas are identified, your chiropractor creates a treatment plan to address these areas.

Treatment for Bulging and Herniated Discs

If you are in pain , chiropractic treatment can ease some pressure on your disc. Decompression strategies such as stretching and traction are used to open up the space between your vertebrae. You will be taught strengthening exercises to keep your spine in alignment. You might find relief after one appointment, but it is important to keep seeking care from your chiropractor when you are trying to get help for a bulging or herniated disc.

Chiropractic care is a safe, holistic way to treat pain, stiffness and swelling. If you have been told that surgery is your only option, it’s time to seek the services of a chiropractor first. You might discover that you can decrease your pain and begin moving about easier again. Some people are able to prolong their need for surgery, while others avoid surgery completely.’

You deserve a healthy spine. We are here to help you get what you deserve. To learn more about our office check out our website here.  Call 780-455-2112 to contact our us to learn more about how we can help you with postural issues and other joint issues through chiropractic care. We look forward to hearing from you!

Finding Hope: How Shockwave Therapy Rescues Chronic Plantar Fasciitis Sufferers

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Plantar fasciitis can be a debilitating condition, characterized by excruciating heel pain that can disrupt daily activities and diminish quality of life. For individuals who have tried various treatment methods with little success, the search for effective relief can feel like an endless journey. However, amidst the frustration and despair, there’s a glimmer of hope: shockwave therapy. Let’s explore how this innovative treatment modality is offering newfound hope and healing for chronic plantar fasciitis sufferers who have exhausted all other options.

Understanding Chronic Plantar Fasciitis:

This common foot ailment that occurs when the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs across the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed or irritated. This inflammation can result from various factors, including overuse, improper footwear, biomechanical issues, or underlying conditions such as flat feet or high arches. While many individuals experience temporary relief with conservative treatments such as rest, ice, stretching, orthotics, and physical therapy, chronic plantar fasciitis persists despite these interventions, posing significant challenges for those affected.

The Role of Shockwave Therapy:

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with chronic plantar fasciitis resistant to conventional treatments. This non-invasive treatment modality utilizes high-energy acoustic waves to target the affected area, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and promoting tissue regeneration. Unlike other interventions that merely mask symptoms or provide temporary relief, shockwave therapy addresses the underlying pathology of plantar fasciitis, offering a long-lasting solution for those in need.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis:

Pain Reduction: 

The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, which can range from mild discomfort to debilitating agony. Shockwave therapy offers significant pain relief by targeting the underlying sources of inflammation and irritation. By modulating pain pathways and promoting tissue healing, shockwave therapy alleviates pain, enabling individuals to walk, stand, and move with greater comfort and ease.

Tissue Regeneration: 

Chronic plantar fasciitis often involves degeneration or microtears within the plantar fascia, impairing its ability to function properly. Shockwave therapy stimulates tissue regeneration by enhancing blood flow, promoting cell proliferation, and triggering the production of collagen, a key protein involved in tissue repair. As a result, damaged tissues are replaced with healthier, more resilient tissue, restoring the structural integrity of the plantar fascia and reducing the risk of recurrence.

Improved Functionality: 

The persistent pain and discomfort of chronic plantar fasciitis can significantly impact one’s ability to perform daily activities and participate in recreational pursuits. Shockwave therapy improves functionality by addressing the root cause of the condition and promoting healing from within. As pain diminishes and tissue integrity is restored, individuals experience improved mobility, flexibility, and overall function, allowing them to resume their normal routines with renewed vigor and enthusiasm.

Non-Invasive and Safe: 

Unlike surgical interventions or invasive procedures, shockwave therapy is non-invasive and carries minimal risk of complications. The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis, typically without the need for anesthesia or sedation. With its excellent safety profile and minimal side effects, shockwave therapy offers a gentle yet effective alternative for individuals seeking relief from chronic plantar fasciitis without the risks and downtime associated with surgical interventions.

Long-Term Relief: 

For many chronic plantar fasciitis sufferers, the prospect of long-term relief seems like a distant dream. However, shockwave therapy offers the promise of lasting results. By addressing the underlying pathology of the condition and promoting tissue healing, shockwave therapy provides a sustainable solution for individuals who have tried all other treatment methods without success. With proper care and follow-up, the benefits of shockwave therapy can endure, allowing individuals to reclaim their lives free from the shackles of chronic plantar fasciitis.

Chronic plantar fasciitis can be a formidable adversary, but with the advent of shockwave therapy, relief is within reach. By targeting pain, promoting tissue regeneration, and restoring functionality, shockwave therapy offers a transformative solution for individuals who have exhausted all other treatment options. Whether you’re struggling with persistent heel pain or grappling with the limitations of chronic plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy holds the potential to reshape your experience and offer newfound hope and healing. 

Consult with one of our qualified healthcare providers to explore whether shockwave therapy is right for you and take the first step towards reclaiming your life from the grips of chronic plantar fasciitis. Give us a call @ 780-455-2112 to get started. Check out our clinic @ ocwc.ca. 

Scared of Acupuncture Needles?

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Acupuncture, an ancient healing art originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has gained significant popularity in recent years for its holistic approach to health and wellness. However, for individuals who are scared of needles, the mere thought of acupuncture can evoke feelings of anxiety and fear. Despite this apprehension, it’s essential to understand that acupuncture offers a plethora of benefits that can outweigh the fear of needles. Let’s explore how acupuncture can be a valuable therapy even for those with needle phobia.

Scared of Needles Hurting

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, about the diameter of a human hair. Unlike the hypodermic needles used for injections or blood draws, acupuncture needles are designed to be virtually painless when inserted correctly. Many people who are initially fearful of needles find that the sensation of acupuncture is far less uncomfortable than they anticipated.

One of the primary benefits of acupuncture is its ability to promote relaxation and stress relief. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, known as acupoints, which correspond to channels of energy flow. This stimulation helps to rebalance the body’s energy, or qi, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. For individuals dealing with anxiety or stress, acupuncture can offer a natural and effective way to unwind and restore balance to both the body and mind.

Furthermore, acupuncture has been shown to alleviate a wide range of physical ailments and conditions. From chronic pain and headaches to digestive issues and insomnia, acupuncture can provide relief for numerous health concerns. By targeting specific acupoints related to the individual’s symptoms, acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

Overcoming being Scared of Needles

For individuals with needle phobia, it’s essential to communicate openly with an acupuncturist about your concerns. A skilled practitioner will take the time to address your fears and ensure that you feel comfortable and supported throughout the treatment process. Many acupuncturists are trained in techniques to help ease anxiety, such as gentle insertion methods and providing a calming environment.

In addition to its physical benefits, acupuncture can also have profound effects on mental and emotional well-being. Research has shown that acupuncture can help to regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in mood regulation. By promoting a healthy balance of these neurotransmitters, acupuncture can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving overall mental health and emotional resilience.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Another advantage of acupuncture is its minimal side effects compared to conventional medications or treatments. While pharmaceutical drugs often come with a laundry list of potential side effects, acupuncture is a safe and natural therapy with minimal risk. This makes it an attractive option for individuals who may be wary of the potential risks associated with medications or invasive procedures.

Moreover, acupuncture is a highly customizable treatment that can be tailored to suit each individual’s unique needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from a specific health issue or simply looking to maintain overall wellness, an experienced acupuncturist can create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and goals.

While the fear of needles may initially deter some individuals from trying acupuncture, the potential benefits of this ancient healing art are vast. From pain relief and stress reduction to improved mental and emotional well-being, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to health that can benefit people of all ages and backgrounds. 

By working with a skilled and compassionate acupuncturist, even those with needle phobia can experience the transformative effects of acupuncture and embark on a journey towards greater health and vitality.

To learn more about our clinic click here. To book an appointment, give us a call @ 780-455-2112.

5 Benefits of Graston Technique

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Graston technique is a soft tissue mobilization technique that has been used for many years in physical therapy, chiropractic therapy, and sports rehabilitation. This technique involves the use of specialized tools to engage with the muscle and soft tissue to treat a range of conditions from chronic pain to post-surgical recovery. Here are five benefits that you can expect to experience when you undergo Graston technique therapy. 

1. Pain Relief with Graston Technique: 

This is one of the most effective methods for reducing acute or chronic pain, especially musculoskeletal pain. Whether you’ve developed overuse injuries, such as carpal tunnel or tendinitis, or have acute muscle strains or sprains, Graston technique can help. The positive force created by the instrument during the therapy breaks down scar tissue, reduces adhesions, and stimulates the body’s natural healing process, thereby reducing pain in the long run. 

2. Improved Range of Motion with Graston Technique: 

Another significant benefit of this technique is the improvement in range of motion. When you’re injured, or you have a chronic condition, you may find it difficult to move your joints freely. This is because joint mobility is limited by scar tissue and adhesions that form around joint capsules. Graston technique helps to break down these barriers, allowing your joints to move more freely, and with less pain. By improving joint mobility, you can return to your normal daily activities more easily. 

3. Faster Healing with Graston Technique: 

In addition to reducing pain and improving joint mobility, Graston technique also helps you to heal faster. The unique mechanical force used in this technique targets deeper muscle layers, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to affected tissues. This boost in circulation accelerates the healing process by promoting the regeneration of tissues and cellular growth. 

4. Improved Athletic Performance:

This technique can help athletes improve their performance. This technique reduces inflammation and scar tissue that result from physical activity, which can otherwise affect the muscles’ long-term health. By undergoing Graston therapy, athletes can recover quicker and improve their overall performance. 

5. Versatile Therapy: 

Finally, Graston technique is an incredibly versatile therapy method that can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. It can be used to treat issues such as plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, knee pain, back pain, and other musculoskeletal disorders. 

Whether you’re an athlete with tendonitis or an office worker with neck or back pain, this technique can help identify any underlying structural or functional issues and provide effective treatments to address them.

Graston technique is a gentle, non-invasive, and effective soft tissue mobilization technique that can provide numerous benefits for those who have chronic or acute muscle and joint problems. It can help relieve pain, improve joint mobility, and accelerate natural healing. Graston therapy can also improve the overall function of your body, which can positively impact your daily life activities and athletic performance. Give us a call today @ 780-455-2112 to get started. Check out our office @ ocwc.ca. 

High-Intensity Interval Training

How Chiropractic Keeps Spinal Joints Healthy

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Healthy joints have obvious benefits, including aiding in movement, keeping you flexible and allowing you to stay active. The health of some of your joints is readily apparent—you only have to bend your knees, ankles, elbows or wrists to see how they are functioning at any given moment. But there are some joints in your body that are even more important, although you may not be as aware of them. The joints in your spine, where each vertebra connects to another, are vital to the normal, healthy function of your body. Without healthy spinal joints, you can expect pain and loss of mobility, among other unpleasant symptoms.

Fortunately, keeping your spinal joints healthy is made much easier with regular chiropractic care. Periodic visits to your chiropractor will help you keep your spine operating as well as it possibly can, year in and year out!

Ways that Chiropractic Aids Spinal Joint Health

1. Increasing circulation.

Stiffness in the spine can be caused by a variety of issues, including trauma and degenerative disc disease. While chiropractic cannot prevent the wear and tear that life often brings, it can do a lot to heal that damage. One way that adjustments aid in healing is by increasing circulation to your spinal discs and surrounding tissues. Increased circulation brings in healthy nutrients and removes undesirable material, making it possible for your spine to heal more thoroughly than without good circulation.

2. Reducing or eliminating pain.

Back pain can make living a normal life difficult if not impossible. Depending on the frequency and severity of the pain, you may find yourself unable to do many of the things you once enjoyed. Even if you do not lose mobility, back pain can distract and upset you every time it shows up.

The pain in your back can most likely be alleviated through chiropractic care. By returning your spine to proper alignment, your chiropractor can ease pressure on the nerves in your back and encourage muscles and other soft tissue to release. Over time spinal adjustments can greatly reduce or even eliminate back pain, which will help you stay active and improve the health of your spinal joints.

3. Increasing mobility.

Pain in your spine and/or neck is usually accompanied by a loss of mobility. Your muscles may seize up in an effort to protect your spine, which can make it impossible to move normally. Even if you are not suffering from muscle spasms, consistent back and neck pain can make you hesitant to move in ways that will trigger pain. Over time, the lack of movement can cause the body to stiffen and weaken. The longer this goes on, the less likely you are to get the physical activity you need to keep your joints mobile and your body strong.

Chiropractic adjustments are capable of breaking up the stiffness that holds you back. By returning your spine to proper alignment, circulation is increased, pain is decreased, muscles release and mobility returns. It can take time to get back to the way you want to be, but it is time well spent.

Joint Health Requires Consistency

The best way to keep your spinal joints healthy over the long-term is to make regular visits to your chiropractor while also maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Every individual is different, which is why it is important to get customized treatment from your chiropractor. By establishing a relationship with your chiropractor, you can ensure that you are always on the right track for spinal joint health.

Check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca. Or contact us today @ 780-952-2312 to schedule an appointment with our team.

3 Benefits Chiropractic Patients Enjoy

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It’s no secret that we’re a little biased when it comes to chiropractic care. We believe in it, we’ve seen how great it works, and our many happy patients are a great testimony to how well it works.

Still, there are some nay-sayers who believe that medical treatments are the only way to treat health care concerns and health conditions. While we do believe that medical treatments do indeed have their place, we also know for a fact that chiropractic offers far more benefits, provides faster results for many neuromusculoskeletal conditions. By providing a non pharmacological option for pain management, chiropractic care provides far reaching care that goes to the heart of the problem instead of just treating the symptoms.

If you’ve chosen to incorporate chiropractic care into your health plan, you’ve made a very wise decision. There are many benefits that chiropractic patients enjoy. Here are three great advantages that chiropractic care will provide – and they’re big ones.

1. Chiropractic treats the root of the problem while “the others” only treat the symptoms.

Modern medicine certainly has its place. It has helped many people. However, it tends to be rather short sighted when dealing with many neuromusculoskeletal conditions.

Chiropractic, on the other hand, seeks to find the root of the problem, to address the reason the patient is having the problem and correct it.

For instance, if a patient came in with back pain, a medical doctor may prescribe painkillers and invasive treatments. Their goal is to stop the pain.

However, a chiropractor will try to find out why the patient’s back is hurting and address the cause while treating the pain without medications or invasive procedures.

2. Chiropractic is completely natural and noninvasive, “the others” rely on drugs and surgery.

Chiropractic is entirely natural, using spinal adjustments and other techniques, combined with nutritional advice, lifestyle recommendations, and all-natural supplements.

“The others” are more reliant on medications that are often largely synthetic and have unpleasant, even dangerous side effects. Some medications are even addictive. Surgeries and other invasive procedures can leave you with difficulty in mobility and limited range of motion as you heal.

When you visit a chiropractor for your back pain, he or she will not only adjust your spine, they will also talk to you about your daily activities, habits, even how you sleep. They will make recommendations about things you can do to prevent the pain and strengthen your back. It may mean making some changes or doing some special exercises, but your treatment will be tailored specifically to you and your needs.

3. Chiropractic treats the body as a whole but “the others” only treat what’s hurting now.

Medical treatments tend to treat what’s hurting right now but rarely look beyond that to see how the whole body is affected. What’s more, they don’t tend to look at what is causing the problem, treating the body in parts.

This is unnatural and not the best way to combat pain and many neuromusculoskeletal conditions. It may work for a while, but eventually issues in the body will manifest in other areas as well.

For instance, a problem with the hip may manifest as knee pain. The doctor treats the knee but does not address the hip (which is the cause of the problem). Eventually, the hip worsens, and the back, knee and ankle become affected. The hips and other joints on the other side may also become affected as the body tries to compensate.

Chiropractic treats the body as a whole, not as parts. It finds the cause of the problem and addresses that while also treating the part that is in pain.

Chiropractic also looks at lifestyle, diet, habits, even relationships so see where you could have stressors or things that could be posing a risk to your health, making your neuromusculoskeletal condition worse or more difficult to treat.

To learn more about our office, visit our website @ ocwc.ca.
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What’s the Difference Between Osteopenia and Osteoporosis?

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Osteopenia and osteoporosis are two very similar conditions, but one is more severe than the other. Both conditions are decreased bone density, but osteopenia is to a lesser degree than osteoporosis. Osteopenia is still a problem though because it can increase a person’s chances of breaking a bone due to bone fragility.

What are the symptoms?

Osteopenia usually doesn’t cause symptoms unless a bone is broken. However, some patients who present with osteopenia complain of dull back pain.

Symptoms associated with osteoporosis include the following:

  • Back pain, caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
  • Loss of height over time
  • A stooped posture
  • A bone fracture that occurs much more easily than expected

What are the causes and who is at risk?

Women (primarily small-boned Caucasian and Asian) are most at risk for both conditions, primarily those who are age 65 or older as well as women who are postmenopausal. However, men can also be affected.

Anyone who meets any of the criteria for being at risk for either of the bone conditions should be evaluated. Often, catching the conditions early can make a significant difference in the effects that they have on the body and in some cases, can even be arrested so that they don’t progress.

Some of the common causes of both conditions include:

  • Lifestyle habits
    • Smoking
    • Insufficient calcium
    • Sedentary lifestyle
    • Excessive alcohol consumption
    • Vitamin D deficiency
    • Carbonated beverages
  • Medical situations
    • Bulimia, anorexia, and other eating disorders
    • Estrogen deficiency in women
    • Certain hormone imbalances
    • Overactive thyroid
    • Certain treatments including radiation and chemotherapy
    • Low testosterone in men
    • Medications including anti-seizure, hydrocortisone, and steroids
  • Health issues
    • Tumors
    • Cystic fibrosis
    • Crohn’s disease
    • Digestive issues

It should also be noted that certain types of diets, particularly those that advocate extremely low fat, or no fat can also cause problems. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption in the body, but vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin meaning the body requires some fat in order to make use of it. When there is inadequate fat, the vitamin cannot be absorbed and in turn calcium cannot be absorbed.

A family history of osteopenia, osteoporosis, or low bone mass can increase a person risk by 50% to 85%.

How is it diagnosed?

Bone mineral density (BMD) tests are used to diagnose both osteopenia and osteoporosis by measuring the calcium levels in bone. This type of test can also provide an estimate of how much at risk a person is for bone fractures.

This test is painless and non-invasive. It is usually performed on the heel, shin bone, wrist, spine, finger, or hip.

Two common types of these tests are radiographs, a common diagnostic tool for osteopenia, and Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). A DEXA scan is essentially a low energy x-ray so patients are not exposed to as much radiation as they would be if they had a regular x-ray. The results are attained by comparing the score (measurements taken) to scans of individuals who do not have the condition.

Once the score is measured and compared, it is assessed using a chart that identifies the level or risk:

  • +1.0 to -1.0  –  Normal bone density
  • -1.0 to -2.5  –  Low bone density
  • -2.5 or higher  –  At risk for osteoporosis

What are the treatments?

As with most conditions, prevention is the most effective treatment. If you have a family history or fall under any of the risk factors, there are things you can do to minimize the effects or prevent the conditions completely.

Your chiropractor can talk to you about lifestyle changes, exercise, and diet as well as supplements that you can take. Chiropractic adjustments can also be effective for many patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis as long as the choose technique is a low force technique like Activator.

Many patients find these natural treatments preferable to any medications that may be prescribed. The most important thing you should do, though, is get a bone density test if you are in an at-risk category, are a woman who is postmenopausal or age 65 or older.

To learn more about our office, check out our website @ ocwc.ca
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Why Chiropractic Works Well Against Joint Pain

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As seasons change, you may notice some pain in your joints. Fortunately, chiropractic care can help. When most people hear “chiropractic care” they usually think of spinal problems and back pain. While this is true, chiropractic can treat conditions other than pain in the joints of the spine. It can be used for joints all over the body, including ankles, knees, shoulders, hips, and wrists. It is a natural, whole body approach to health care and wellness as a very effective way to manage chronic joint pain such as arthritis, or join pain due to injury.

What Causes Joint Pain and Immobility?

There are several reasons that a joint may become painful and immobile. Injury or trauma to the joint, such as a fall, being hit while playing sports, or being involved in a car accident, can cause injury. Micro trauma occurs due to a repetitive use injury such as working on an assembly line or using a computer all day, can also cause damage resulting in pain.

Sometimes an inflammatory diet can cause problems and stress can also certainly be a factor. Stress affects the entire body, including its chemicals and hormones that can lead to joint damage or weakness, making you more prone to injury.

Finally, age may be a factor. As we get older, our bodies don’t hold up like they once did. This can mean joint pain and decreased range of motion. The colder months can instigate pain in the major joints, including the knees, back, hips, and shoulders.

Why does Cold Weather Exacerbate Joint Pain?

The short answer to this is that researchers aren’t really sure. One of the most popular theories is that low pressure systems typically accompany the cooler temps. The lower pressure can cause the tissues in already sensitive joints to expand, creating a perfect environment for inflammation including aches, tenderness, decreased range of motion, and swelling.

Other factors that may also affect joint pain in cooler weather are low level dehydration, a sedentary lifestyle, and depression or “the blues.” Low level dehydration is more common than you may think; most people do not have adequate water intake.

Sodas don’t count as hydration and this can be a real problem. Generally, people don’t hydrate as much when the weather is cool – or not as much as they did during the warm summer months.

When the weather cools down people become less active, especially if there is snow and ice on the ground. Lack of exercise can lead to serious joint troubles.

Depression can also impact your entire body, including your joints. Many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Doctors believe that it occurs because of the shorter days and generally darker skies during the winter months. Depression and anxiety have strong ties to chronic pain as a whole, including joint pain.

How Chiropractic Helps Relieve Joint Pain

Chiropractic provides an all-natural, holistic approach to health care and pain management. It does not use medications or invasive medical procedures.

The chiropractor usually begins by aligning the spine, which is called an “adjustment.” This brings the body back into alignment so that it can function more efficient and with less pain. The patient may also be given recommendations on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, exercise, and supplements.

When the body is aligned, the entire system is balanced. This allows the body to work at a more optimal rate. As a result, the range of motion improves and the pain is decreased or even completely eliminated.

To learn more about our office. visit www.ocwc.ca