How can deep tissue massage help for back pain?

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It can be an effective treatment for back pain, as it can help to alleviate tension and stiffness in the muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area. Here are some ways deep tissue massage can help with back pain:

Reduces muscle tension: Deep tissue massage can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness by breaking up adhesions or knots in the muscle tissue. This can help to relieve pain and discomfort in the back.

Improves circulation: Deep tissue massage can also improve blood flow to the affected area, which can help to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Increases flexibility: By releasing tension and adhesions in the muscles, deep tissue massage can also improve flexibility and range of motion in the back, which can help to prevent future injuries.

Releases endorphins: Deep tissue massage can also help to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. This can help to reduce the perception of pain and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being.

Helps with stress and anxiety: Chronic back pain can be a source of stress and anxiety for many people. Deep tissue massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and releasing tension in the muscles.

It's important to note that deep tissue massage may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly if you have certain medical conditions or injuries. It's always best to consult with your experienced physiotherapist or chiropractor before starting any new treatment for your back pain.

How a Chiropractor can help with lower back pain caused by sciatica

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, including lower back pain caused by sciatica. Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs, is compressed or irritated.

Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to treat sciatica, including spinal adjustments, mobilization, stretching, and soft tissue therapies. These techniques are designed to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce inflammation in the affected area.

During a chiropractic session for lower back pain caused by sciatica, your chiropractor will first conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain. They will then develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs, which may include a combination of techniques such as:

1. Spinal adjustments: This involves the use of gentle, targeted force to realign the vertebrae in your spine, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
2. Mobilization: This technique involves gentle, repetitive movements to help loosen tight muscles and joints, which can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
3. Stretching: Your chiropractor may recommend specific stretches to help alleviate your symptoms and prevent further injury.
4. Soft tissue therapy: This involves the use of manual pressure to release tension in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the affected area.

In addition to these techniques, your chiropractor may also provide advice on lifestyle changes, such as exercise and nutrition, to help manage your lower back pain caused by sciatica.

It's important to note that chiropractic care is generally considered safe and effective for most people with lower back pain caused by sciatica. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with chiropractic care, such as temporary soreness or discomfort. It's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment for your lower back pain.

So, what are orthotics? Put simply, they are devices that are worn inside shoes or other footwear to help support the feet and improve overall foot function. Orthotics come in many different forms, from simple off-the-shelf insoles to custom-made devices that are tailored specifically to the individual's needs.

One of the most important benefits of orthotics is that they can help to alleviate pain and discomfort in the feet and lower limbs. For people with conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or arthritis, orthotics can provide much-needed support and cushioning, reducing pressure on sensitive areas and helping to distribute weight more evenly.

But orthotics aren't just about pain relief - they can also help to improve balance and stability, which can be particularly important for older adults or those with certain medical conditions. By providing a more stable base for the feet, orthotics can help to reduce the risk of falls and other accidents, which can be a major concern for many people.

So, what type of conditions can orthotics help with? Here are just a few examples:

Plantar fasciitis - this common condition causes pain and inflammation in the heel, and can be aggravated by walking or standing for long periods of time. Orthotics can provide support and cushioning to help relieve this pain and improve overall foot function.

Flat feet - people with flat feet may experience pain or discomfort in the feet, ankles, or knees due to the lack of arch support. Orthotics can help to provide that support, reducing strain on the joints and improving overall comfort.

Arthritis - for people with arthritis in the feet or ankles, orthotics can provide much-needed support and cushioning, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Sports injuries - athletes and active individuals may benefit from orthotics designed specifically for their sport or activity, providing additional support and protection to help prevent injuries.

Overall, orthotics are an incredibly important tool in the world of healthcare, helping people of all ages and backgrounds to stay comfortable, mobile, and active. Whether you're dealing with pain or discomfort in your feet, or simply looking to improve your overall foot function, orthotics may be just what you need to get back on your feet and feel your best.

TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw and face. Fortunately, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for TMJ, and the process of getting help can be fun and upbeat. In this blog, we'll explore how physiotherapy benefits those with TMJ and how it can be a positive experience.

First, let's talk about what TMJ is. The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull and allows you to open and close your mouth. When this joint isn't functioning properly, it can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty chewing. TMJ can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, stress, teeth grinding, or arthritis.

Physiotherapy is a form of treatment that involves exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques to help relieve pain and improve mobility.

When it comes to TMJ, physiotherapy can help by:

1. Reducing pain: A physiotherapist can use manual therapy techniques like massage and stretching to alleviate pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles.

2. Improving jaw mobility: Through targeted exercises and stretches, a physiotherapist can help increase the range of motion in the jaw, making it easier to open and close the mouth.

3. Addressing underlying causes: If TMJ is caused by an underlying issue like teeth grinding or poor posture, a physiotherapist can help address those issues and prevent future problems.

Physiotherapy can be a positive experience for those with TMJ, for a few reasons:

1. The exercises and techniques used in physiotherapy will help lossen your jaw muscles and improve jaw function.

2. Physiotherapy is a social experience. You'll be working with a physiotherapist who can guide you through exercises and offer encouragement and support. 

3. If you're dealing with pain and discomfort from TMJ, it can be frustrating and discouraging. But by taking action and seeking treatment, you can regain a sense of control over your health and well-being.

In summary, TMJ can be a painful and frustrating condition, but physiotherapy can be an effective way to address it. With the help of a skilled physiotherapist, you can reduce pain, improve mobility, and feel better overall.

So don't hesitate to seek out physiotherapy if you're dealing with TMJ – it could be just the solution you need!

Spinal Decompression Table: A Solution for Back Pain

Back pain is a common problem affecting millions of people worldwide. While there are several ways to manage it, one of the most effective is through the use of a spinal decompression table. This therapy uses traction to stretch the spine, relieve pressure, and promote healing. In this blog, we will discuss what a spinal decompression table is, how it works, and its numerous benefits.

What is a Spinal Decompression Table?

A spinal decompression table is a specialized medical device designed to relieve back pain. It uses traction to stretch the spine and reduce pressure on the vertebrae and discs. The table is equipped with a motor that can be controlled to adjust the amount of traction applied to the spine. The patient lies down on the table and is secured with straps, which help to keep them in place during the therapy session.

How Does Spinal Decompression Work?

The spinal decompression table works by creating a negative pressure within the discs, which helps to pull the herniated or bulging discs back into their proper position. As the spine is stretched, the pressure on the discs is reduced, and the discs are able to rehydrate, which promotes healing. Over time, this can lead to a reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility.

Benefits of Spinal Decompression Table

1. Relief from Back Pain: Spinal decompression therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing back pain caused by herniated discs, bulging discs, sciatica, and other conditions.
2. Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, spinal decompression is non-invasive and does not require any incisions or anesthesia.
3. Safe: Spinal decompression is considered a safe form of therapy with minimal side effects. It is also a low-risk alternative to surgery.
4. Improved Mobility: As the pressure on the discs is reduced, patients can experience improved mobility, allowing them to move more freely and with less pain.
5. Long-Term Results: Unlike medications that only provide temporary relief, spinal decompression can lead to long-term results, reducing the need for ongoing treatment.

In conclusion, a spinal decompression table is a safe and effective way to manage back pain. It offers numerous benefits, including relief from pain, improved mobility, and long-term results. If you are suffering from back pain, consider spinal decompression therapy as a potential solution.

Note: It is important to consult with a medical professional before starting any form of therapy to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your specific condition. Call and book a free consultation with one of our physiotherapist!

Have you ever felt tingling, numbness, electrical currents, burning or a combination of all sensations in your fingers or hands?

Has the feeling persisted over months and is getting worse?

Carpal tunnel starts out slowly and gradually. You may feel numbness and weakness in your fingers and hands. Carpal tunnel is a painful condition that usually get worse overtime if left untreated. Untreated carpal tunnel can lead to permanent nerve damage.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a disorder that affects the hand, wrist, and arm caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers and thumb, as well as weakness in the hand. Early signs of carpal tunnel   psyndrome can include pain, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensations in the palm, thumb, index and middle fingers, as well as aching, burning, and numbness in the wrist.Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Physiotherapists can assist in the diagnosis and management of carpal tunnel syndrome through patient education, activity modification, and exercise. Education is key to understanding carpal tunnel syndrome and avoiding activities that can worsen symptoms. 

Pregnancy can wreak havoc on a woman’s body in countless ways, from physical changes to mental tension. Studies show that massage during pregnancy can help manage discomforts from throbbing back pains, swollen feet, morning sickness, depression and make for an easier labor. Fortunately, a prenatal massage is not only safe to enjoy but it is also encouraged!  However it is always recommended that you speak to your doctor beforehand  to  to know that massage therapy is completely safe for your child. Our Registered Massage therapists have received special training in massaging prenatal woman in all stages of pregnancy including the first trimester.

The difference between a prenatal massage and a Swedish massage

Prenatal massage is a specific type of massage tailored to help relieve the strains and pains caused by pregnancy. Usually, the massage focuses on the areas of the body that are most affected by pregnancy. This includes the lower back, the mid-back, shoulders, neck, calves, feet, and even the stomach. The registered massage therapist will have your comfort in mind every step of the way in their approach. With use of pillows to support you so you can lie down safely and comfortably on your side throughout your massage. You can expect the massage pressure to be softer and gentler, using long and slow strokes and kneading movements in tense areas.  

With our customised approach our registered massage therapists will provide mom and baby ultimate relaxation, having you feel aligned and pain free.

If you are interested in booking a prenatal massage contact us today.

Are you constantly hunched over looking down on your phone or other devices and feeling the pains and strains in your neck?

What is Text neck?

Text neck pain is a real symptom. Our head is the heaviest part of the body and the muscles and ligaments are not designed to hold it for long periods of time in a position where you are looking down. 

When you lean forward while using your cell phone  for prolonged periods of time, this is a form of repetitive strain injury that causes neck and shoulder pain that can lead to tension headaches in some cases.

Text neck is a lifestyle problem that can be treated by a physiotherapist.

Tips and Tricks to prevent text neck pain

Raise the phone. Move the phone (and other devices) up closer to eye level so the head does not have to be tilted forward.

Take frequent breaks. Take frequent breaks from looking down on your phone.

Watch your posture. With your chin tucked in and shoulders pulled back, this keeps the body aligned in a neutral position.

Arch and stretch. Arch the neck and upper back backward periodically to ease muscle pain.

Stretch and Exercise regularly. A strong, flexible back and neck are more able to handle extra stress.

Best Stretches for Neck Pain

You may not be able to completely eliminate looking down at your phone or other devises but we have comprised exercises you can perform that will help relieve some of the pain and tension placed on your neck, back and shoulders.

CHIN TUCK

Chin tucks are typically one of the key exercises recommended for keeping the head aligned above the spine, rather than drifting forward into poor posture. When done regularly and with proper form, chin tucks can help improve the neck’s strength, flexibility, and function.

BENEFITS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR TEXT NECK PAIN

 If you’re struggling with neck pain from using your computer or smartphone, it may be time to book an appointment with a physiotherapist to help you develop an individualised treatment plan that aims to improve pain and prevent recurrences. 

Physiotherapy treatment for text neck pain comprises of joint mobilization, massage therapy, stretches, and exercises.The physiotherapist would teach you postural techniques to reduce the pain and strains and tightness of muscles and help your body to move freely.

‘Tis the season when the temperature starts to drop causing muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the spine to contract and become stiff. For those with bone and joint related issues, winter weather causes an increase in pain, stiffness, muscle fatigue and inflammation that are harder to control if not treated.

Most common causes of winter back pain?

Decreased activity. Cold weather often mean less exercise and movement that lead to tight muscles, muscle weakness and poor posture.

Winter-related injuries. Such as slip and falls and strenuous tasks as snow shoveling, holiday preparations and winter sports injuries.

Shivering- the body’s natural response to cold that cause muscles to tense up in the cold causing muscle tension in the back leading to pain.

Beat Winter Back Pain with these exercises:

Bird Dog

Click link for the Video Bird Dog Exercise

Side Plank Click

link for the Video Side Plank Exercise

McGill Curl up 

link for the Video McGill Curl Up Exercise

If you find that your winter back pain does not go away, various modalities such as hot and cold therapy, warm Epson salt baths, massage therapy and physiotherapy can help relieve your pain.

A physiotherapist plays a significant role in the management of lower back pain, designing a personalised exercise program to improve flexibility, strengthening, improve range of motion and strengthening the core: to maintain your body’s stability and prevent injuries.

If these tip do not help, contact us for a free consultation to determine what treatment would be best beneficial for you.