by Malkeet Marahar | Dec 17, 2024 | Health Tips
Dealing with vertigo can be a distressing experience. It feels like the world is spinning around you, leaving you off balance. The Epley Maneuver is a simple and effective method to help relieve symptoms of this condition.
You can perform the Epley Maneuver at home to manage vertigo caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This technique involves a series of head and body movements designed to move particles in the inner ear that trigger dizziness.
Understanding this maneuver for vertigo method can give you more control over your vertigo episodes. By following the steps carefully, you can find relief and reduce occurrences of dizzy spells.
Struggling with vertigo? At Westwood Physiotherapy in Guelph and Tavistock, our skilled team can help you in treatments like the Epley Maneuver to help you find relief and regain balance. If you are wondering how to fix vertigo—contact us today to book your appointment and start feeling steady again!
Understanding Vertigo
Vertigo is a sensation where you feel dizzy or that the world around you is spinning. It can happen suddenly and affect your daily activities. Understanding its causes can help with proper treatment and improvement of your symptoms.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a type of dizziness characterized by a spinning or swaying feeling. You might feel like you are moving when you are actually still. This sensation can cause balance problems and make daily tasks difficult. It is often described as an illusion of movement, your surroundings seeming to rotate or tilt.
Different types of vertigo include peripheral vertigo and central vertigo. Peripheral vertigo is more common and usually related to the inner ear, while central vertigo is linked to the brain. Symptoms of vertigo can include nausea, vomiting, sweating, and difficulty walking.
If you experience symptoms regularly, it might be helpful to seek medical advice. Doctors can recommend exercises, like the Epley Maneuver, or medications to help manage your vertigo.
Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo can be caused by problems in the inner ear or brain. The most typical cause is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when small crystals in your inner ear become dislodged. This affects your balance and creates the sensation of spinning.
Other causes include infections, such as labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, which involve inflammation in the inner ear. Meniere’s disease is another possible cause, characterized by episodes of vertigo along with hearing loss and ringing in the ears.
Certain medications, like antibiotics or diuretics, can also lead to vertigo. Migraines and head injuries are additional factors. Identifying the cause is key to finding effective treatment and relief.
The Epley Maneuver
The Epley Maneuver is a simple procedure used to treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a condition causing dizziness. This technique involves a series of head movements to move particles in the ear, which can cause vertigo. Following these steps can help reduce symptoms swiftly and effectively.
The Origins of the Epley Maneuver
The Epley Maneuver was developed by Dr. John Epley in the 1980s. It’s designed to help people with BPPV, a condition where tiny calcium particles, called canaliths, become dislodged in the inner ear. These particles can disrupt balance and cause vertigo.
The maneuver itself involves guiding the patient through specific head movements. These movements help to reposition the canaliths, moving them to parts of the ear where they no longer cause dizziness. It typically provides quick relief from vertigo symptoms when performed correctly.
How the Epley Maneuver Works
If you ever wondered how you could get rid of vertigo, the Epley Maneuver might be the answer. In the Epley Maneuver, you are guided through a sequence of four movements. You start sitting up, then lie down with your head turned to one side and hold this position. Afterward, you turn your head to the other side, stay there for a moment, then roll onto the side until you’re facing down.
Each position is held for about 30 seconds. This allows the particles to move away from areas that trigger vertigo. The goal is to guide the canaliths into an area where they can be absorbed by the body. By clearing these particles, the symptoms of vertigo often subside significantly.
Step-by-Step Guide
The Epley Maneuver is a vertigo treatment, specifically for BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo). It involves a series of movements designed to reposition debris in the ear. Follow this guide carefully to help alleviate your symptoms.
Preparation
Before starting, make sure you have a safe environment. You might need help from a friend or family member. Sit on a bed with enough room to lie back comfortably. Ensure you have a pillow at hand to support your shoulders when you lay back. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement.
Make sure your head can turn freely without any discomfort. If you feel dizziness during the maneuver, pause and take deep breaths.
The Steps of Epley Maneuver
- Sit upright on your bed. Turn your head 45 degrees toward the affected ear.
- Lie back quickly. Keep your head turned while laying back so your shoulders rest on the pillow. Hold for 30 seconds or until the dizziness stops.
- Turn your head to the opposite side. Keep it at a 45-degree angle and hold for 30 seconds.
- Roll your body onto your side. Your head should face down at a 45-degree angle. Hold for 30 seconds.
- Slowly sit up. Return to the starting position and stay upright for at least a minute.
What to Do After the Maneuver
After completing the maneuver, avoid sudden movements of the head. Elevate your head slightly while sleeping. Consider using a pair of pillows to prop up your head. Try to rest for a few minutes and stay seated. This can prevent any residual vertigo.
If you still feel symptoms after attempting this at home, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Repeat the Epley Maneuver as needed to help reduce vertigo, but not more than three times in a day. Always listen to your body’s responses to avoid overexerting yourself.
Aftercare and Tips
Taking care of yourself after the Epley Maneuver is crucial. It helps ensure the procedure’s success and your comfort. Know key actions to take following the maneuver and when to contact a healthcare professional.
Post-Maneuver Considerations
Once you complete the Epley Maneuver, try to stay still and upright for about 24 hours. This can help the crystals stay in place. Avoid tilting your head far back or to the sides.
Get up slowly in the morning to prevent dizziness. Some people choose to sleep with their heads slightly elevated to reduce symptoms. Using an extra pillow can help with this.
If you’re feeling dizzy or unwell, it’s wise to have someone with you for assistance. Be cautious during activities like driving until vertigo symptoms are significantly reduced.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your vertigo doesn’t improve after using the Epley Maneuver, consider contacting an expert in vestibular or neurological rehabilitation. Continued dizziness might need medical attention or other treatments.
Consult a doctor if you experience new or worsening symptoms, including severe headaches, hearing changes, or vision problems. These could indicate other issues needing attention.
Persistent symptoms that interfere with your daily life are important to address. A professional can evaluate your condition and recommend further treatment options or adjustments to the maneuver. Responding promptly to these signs ensures your health and safety.
Conclusion
The Epley Maneuver is a great way to ease the discomfort of vertigo. It’s simple and can usually be done on your own. Make sure to follow each step carefully to get the best results.
Remember, safety is important. If you’re not sure about something, talk to a healthcare provider. They can help make sure you’re doing the maneuver correctly.
If you want professional guidance, visit us at Westwood Physiotherapy. We have 3 locations across Guelph and Tavistock, ON, where our experts can help you with vertigo.
Getting the right help can make a big difference. You can enjoy a life with less dizziness and more balance. Take the first step towards feeling better and get rid of vertigo today.
by Malkeet Marahar | Nov 19, 2024 | Health Tips
Enhancing Mobility and Functionality
Stroke recovery is complex and requires diverse treatments. Neurological Rehabilitation plays a vital role by improving mobility, balance, and strength, making daily tasks easier to perform and boosting confidence. It retrains the brain and muscles to work in unison, aiding both physical and mental recovery and fostering a more independent, fulfilling life post-stroke.
1. Improves Motor Function
Neurological physiotherapy enhances motor function through targeted exercises that help the brain rewire itself and regain movement. These sessions include stretching, balance training, and strength workouts tailored to your needs. Assistive tools like canes, walkers, hemiwalkers or ankle foot orthosis can support your progress. Regular practice and commitment with your therapist will help you gradually restore mobility, making everyday tasks more manageable and increasing independence.
2. Enhances Balance and Coordination
Stroke often impacts balance and coordination. Physiotherapy includes exercises that strengthen muscles and posture, using tools like balance boards to rebuild stability. Activities such as standing, walking, and shifting positions safely are practiced to reduce fall risk. Regular assessments ensure your therapy aligns with your progress, leading to smoother movements and increased confidence in daily life.
3. Reduces Pain and Discomfort
Post-stroke pain and muscle stiffness from hypertonia (spasticity) are common but can be managed with physiotherapy. Techniques like gentle stretching help relax muscles and reduce discomfort. Electrical stimulation can decrease pain signals, while massage therapy enhances blood flow and eases tightness, allowing for more comfortable daily activities.
4. Promotes Independence and Quality of Life
Physiotherapy can significantly boost independence by improving movement and strength, enabling you to perform daily tasks with confidence. Enhanced mobility, balance, and muscle strength decrease the need for constant assistance, fostering self-reliance. This leads to a better quality of life, with more opportunities to engage in activities and social events that enrich your well-being.
Benefits at a Glance:
- Increased Mobility: Walk, sit, and stand with more ease.
- Better Balance: Feel more stable on your feet.
- Enhanced Strength: Build muscle strength for daily activities.
Neurological physiotherapy programs are tailored to meet your unique needs. Your therapist will work with you to set achievable goals and track your progress. This personalized approach ensures that you continue to make strides in your recovery journey.
5. Helps Prevent Future Strokes
Regular physiotherapy helps prevent future strokes by promoting strength, coordination, and cardiovascular health. Customized exercises improve heart and blood vessel health, lowering stroke risk. Your therapist may guide you in lifestyle changes like diet and exercise to manage weight, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Education on stroke symptoms and emergency response can also be part of your therapy.
6. Helps with Speech and Swallowing Difficulties
Speech and swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, are common after a stroke. Physiotherapy with adjunct guidance from a speech language pathologist helps strengthen the muscles needed for these functions. Speech exercises, breathing techniques, and targeted muscle training improve communication and reduce choking risk. Adjustments in head position and new swallowing strategies can make eating and drinking safer, enhancing your quality of life.
7. Customized Treatment Plans
Neurological physiotherapy tailors treatment to each patient’s needs. Therapists assess your condition and create personalized plans with clear goals to track progress. This individualized approach adapts as you recover, maintaining your motivation and commitment. Specific exercises target affected areas to maximize recovery and independence, with regular plan adjustments ensuring continuous progress.
Benefits include:
- Individual Focus: Each plan is designed based on your abilities, making rehabilitation more effective.
- Goal-Oriented: Treatments set clear goals, helping you track progress.
This personalized focus fosters a greater sense of involvement and control over your healing process. Customized treatment plans are key in achieving effective and efficient stroke recovery, centered entirely around helping you regain independence.
8. Helps with Mental Health
A stroke can impact mental health, but physiotherapy can help. Improved physical ability boosts confidence and self-esteem. Achievable goals and regular sessions release endorphins, lifting mood and reducing stress. The structure and routine of therapy add purpose to your days, while interactions with therapists and peers provide emotional support and lessen isolation.
9. Improved Cardiovascular Health
Neurological physiotherapy plays a key role in enhancing your cardiovascular health after a stroke. Engaging in regular exercise and therapy sessions can improve your heart and lung function.
Physical activity during physiotherapy helps boost your heart rate. This supports better circulation and reduces the risk of further cardiovascular issues. You are encouraged to partake in exercises tailored to your needs.
A schedule of routine exercises helps maintain your weight. Keeping a healthy weight reduces the strain on your heart and lowers blood pressure.
Therapists can teach you breathing exercises. These exercises can improve lung capacity and efficiency. Better breathing supports your heart’s health and enhances your overall endurance in activities. These activities are designed to safely boost your heart health without overexerting you.
Heart-healthy nutrition advice might also be provided by your therapy team. Proper diet complements physical exercises and supports cardiovascular recovery. You might be guided to eat foods rich in nutrients and low in unhealthy fats.
Staying active and following the guidance of your physiotherapist promotes a better recovery path. With these steps, you increase your chances of reducing the risk of further heart-related issues.
10. Cost-effective Treatment
Neurological physiotherapy is cost-effective, often incorporating home exercises that minimize clinic visits. Insurance may cover sessions, fostering motivation and social interaction. Home routines with affordable tools like resistance bands extend therapy benefits without high costs.
Conclusion
Neurological physiotherapy plays a crucial role in stroke recovery. It helps improve muscle strength, balance, and coordination. Through personalized care, patients can regain independence and enhance their quality of life.
By focusing on exercises and techniques tailored to your needs, neurological physiotherapy helps you rebuild essential skills. This journey involves patience and persistence, and the support from physical therapists makes a significant difference in your progress.
If you or a loved one are recovering from a stroke, consider booking an appointment for neurological physiotherapy with us. Our team at Westwood Physiotherapy is ready to assist you with locations in Guelph and Tavistock, Ontario. Start your journey to recovery today.
by Malkeet Marahar | Nov 28, 2022 | Health Tips
It is once again that time of year. No matter where you look, you will be accosted by the sight and sound of sleighbells, Santas, and Christmas carols. Another common thing for some people to experience during this time of the year is the body ache due to the cold weather. Frequent questions that accompany the holidays include “Why do I get aches and pains in winter?” and “What helps with aches and pains in winter?”.
Why Does It Ache More During Winter?
Winter weather can make joints sore for a variety of reasons. Muscles naturally get tighter and tenser in the cold, reducing joint flexibility and mobility. Soreness, aches, and persistent pains can then be brought on by the contraction of muscles and the restriction of blood flow.
Recent research on pain has also shown that our perception of pain has a direct correlation with our mental state. We are more prone to experience greater amounts of physical discomfort when we are depressed, nervous, or agitated. We feel less discomfort when we are calm, supported, and content. Throughout the winter, we spend more time indoors, receive less sunlight, engage in fewer physical and social activities, and are beset by the cold, dark, and gloomy weather. This can consequently affect mood and heighten pain perception.
Common Conditions Affected by Cold Weather
For many health conditions, the colder temperature of this season can make discomfort feel much worse. Here are the 4 most common conditions caused by cold weather.
The most common health issue affecting the elderly in cold weather is joint pain and stiff muscles. The number of senior individuals seeking care for bone and joint issues increases by 50% throughout the winter.
Another chronic condition that affects people in the winter is rheumatoid arthritis. Winter makes it more difficult to manage its symptoms, which include pain, edema, stiffness, exhaustion, and other typical arthritis symptoms.
People with cervical spondylosis, a disorder that affects the bones, discs, and joints of the neck, struggle as the winter months get colder. The reduced physical activity brought on by shorter days, less water consumption, and the winter’s cold weather make the bones ache and neck stiff considerably worse.
Cold weather can also cause asthma attacks because allergens are more prevalent throughout the winter. Asthma sufferers have delicate airways, which are made worse by cold or wet weather.
How to Manage Body Pains
During the winter, we become painfully aware of every ache and discomfort we feel. This is why many often search for home remedies for body pains due to the cold weather. Here are 8 winter remedies for joint pain relief to help you feel better during the freezing months:
1. Keep Moving
Even in the cold, it’s essential to remain physically active. In the winter, we frequently feel less driven and more eager to stay inside where it’s warm and comfortable. However, it’s crucial to keep your body moving. Your joints will stay healthy if you engage in low-impact exercises. Try weight training, yoga or Pilates stretching, brisk walking, or indoor swimming in a warm pool.
2. Avoid Winter Weight Gain
Winter and weight gain frequently go hand in hand. Healthy habits often revert around the holidays, and many people gain a few extra pounds. Even a little extra weight will start to impact your knees and other joints.
3. Dress For Cold Weather Success
Wear many layers and stay warm when you’re going outside in the cold. Even if joint discomfort is the root cause, cold fingers and toes often hurt and feel sore. In case of emergency, have a pair of gloves or mittens in your work bag and car. Store an extra pair of cozy socks so you can put them on if your feet start to become cold.
The right cold-weather attire alters how you feel about the winter season. Research on residents of regions with constant cold temperatures teaches us that being prepared can lessen the discomfort of the winter. Wearing warm clothing will make it more comfortable for you to walk outside, breathe fresh air, and exercise.
4. Stay Warm Indoors
Keep yourself warm and comfortable indoors. This will not only improve your mood but also enable you to continue going. Fix any drafts in your house and maintain a reasonable temperature for your heat. Some people discover that using a heating pad or hot water bottle will also relieve sore joints.
One word of advice: refrain from using heating pads and hot water bottles for an extended period of time, especially if you have diabetes or other health issues. Always use these heated devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and your doctor’s advice.
5. Soothe Your Senses
Because depression brought about by gloomy weather can increase pain sensitivity, one way to relieve your aches is to soothe your senses. Relax and engage in winter self-care to combat the winter blues as well as the pain.
Some people receive relief from joint or muscular discomfort by applying lotions, ointments, or salves. Even if these lotions with a “cooling effect” might not actually relieve pain, you could enjoy the way they make you feel. The tension in your body is also relieved by taking a warm bath and inhaling relaxing scents.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Although staying hydrated is necessary year-round, the winter months are when it’s most crucial. When it’s sunny and pleasant, people tend to think they should drink more water, but in the winter, the dry air can leave you feeling drained, exhausted, and achy. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water!
Sipping a cup of warm tea is a great method to stay hydrated in the winter if you don’t like drinking plain water. Soup and bone broth are other hydrating choices. Aim for 8 glasses of water each day, more so if you exercise or stay active.
7. Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
A balanced diet will keep your body healthy over the winter, preventing you from being run down from illness and the accompanying aches and pains. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Refrain from processed foods and foods that are high in sugar or saturated fat. Consult your doctor to determine the best course of action if you have intolerances. A healthy diet also ensures that you are obtaining a variety of vitamins and minerals, which are additional advantages.
Winter weather-related health issues become more prevalent when temperatures start to drop, so it’s important to know how to relieve body aches from the cold. You can keep your function and regain it with the aid of physiotherapy. Westwood Physiotherapy & Wellness is a team of physiotherapists in Guelph that offers a variety of treatment methods and services to help you heal and recover. Book your appointment today by calling us at (519) 341-5161.
by Malkeet Marahar | Nov 24, 2022 | Health Tips
A car accident can be a life-altering event. It often results in serious injuries that can take months or even years to fully recover. Car accident injuries can impact your quality of life as it prevents you from performing your daily normal routines. The best way to get you back on track and enjoy the life you once had is to undergo physiotherapy after a car accident.
According to a report from Transport Canada, 7,868 people sustained serious injuries from car accidents. High impact rear collision can put a person at risk of “whiplash,” an injury that causes the neck to extend beyond its normal range of motion. Symptoms of whiplash include:
- Stiffness and pain in the head, neck, and shoulders
- Decreased range of motion in the neck
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Numbness or tingling sensation felt in the upper extremities
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Occasional blurred vision and memory problems
In some cases, you may not immediately experience the symptoms of whiplash. Seeking immediate medical care is highly recommended to evaluate your physical health. Delaying physio treatment can result in long-term health problems, such as chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or limited mobility.
Why Physiotherapy?
If you are involved in a car accident in Guelph, physio and rehab should be crucial parts of your treatment care plan to address and treat various musculoskeletal injuries. A physiotherapist in Guelph will provide you with a comprehensive assessment of your current health condition, including joint strength examination, posture tests, and other specialized tests. The result of the assessment will be used to create a physio treatment program tailored to your condition and injury.
Physiotherapy helps Guelph car accident patients regain their strength and mobility while treating injured muscles and/or joints. In some cases, the physiotherapist may partner with an occupational therapist to treat and help severely injured patients relearn daily activities, such as getting dressed and brushing their teeth.
While some patients only need a few physiotherapy sessions, others may require months or even years of therapy to recover fully. Depending on the severity of the injury you sustained, the physiotherapist may use any of the following techniques:
- Postural strength to help reduce the pain in the neck, shoulder, and back
- Personalized exercises that target acute and chronic pain, spine dysfunction, and body weakness
- Manual therapy to stimulate joints, get rid of scar tissue, treat inflammatory conditions, and boost the healing of tissues.
Your physiotherapist will work and guide you through all the strengthening stretches and exercises to strengthen weak areas in the body and target the root cause of the injury. Regular sessions are key to achieving lasting symptom relief.
How Physiotherapy Benefits Car Crash Patients
Today, many car crash victims visit a physiotherapy clinic to manage, alleviate, and overcome pain and injuries. Getting the right form of physiotherapy treatment is vital to promoting the natural healing processes of the body. For instance, physiotherapy can help improve the mobility and strength of your neck to accelerate your recovery.
In addition to helping patients recover from painful injuries, physiotherapy also includes other important aspects, like educating patients, recommending proper stretching and exercise techniques, and a variety of therapies. Teaching patients the correct body posture and positioning helps reduce pain and restore mobility and strength. Stretches, exercises, and manual therapy are essential in improving the range of motion. Other forms of therapy, such as chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage therapy help provide relief from painful symptoms. Incorporating certain therapies and exercises enables you to quickly recover and get back to your regular activities.
Often, you do not realize the severity of your injury until you have returned to your daily routine. Find a reliable physiotherapist as soon as possible to help you recover fully from injuries. With the right physiotherapy regimen, the root cause of pain, stiffness, chronic headaches, and limited range of motion can be immediately addressed so you can bounce back from your injuries and return to your day-to-day activities.
One of the primary goals of physiotherapy is to alleviate pain. Certain physical activities help reduce pain and boost the recovery process — that is why physiotherapists will develop personalized treatment programs that include stretching and strengthening exercises that target the affected areas in the body. Physical activities stimulate the body to supply oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the injured tissues to promote fast and natural healing.
- Prevent Potential Surgery
Another reason why people seek physiotherapy is that it is a non-invasive way to treat injuries. While in some cases, surgery is inevitable after a car crash, a physiotherapist will develop a treatment plan that is unique to your needs to exhaust every option before considering surgery. However, if your physician still recommends surgery to treat your injuries, physiotherapy is also crucial for post-surgical rehabilitation. Often, attending regular physiotherapy sessions can help you extend the time between their surgeries.
In addition to improving your flexibility, mobility, and strength, physiotherapy is widely used to prevent further complications, including the inability to walk and debilitating pain. Failure to address these problems right away can result in long-term damage. The sooner you get treatment, the more quickly you can recover and enjoy a relatively pain-free life for years to come.
Receiving medical treatment directly after a car accident ensures you get an accurate diagnosis and a treatment program tailored to your health care needs. Delaying medical evaluation can result in more debilitating symptoms and further complications, like loss of mobility. With regular physiotherapy sessions, your body will restore its functions over time.
Getting involved in a motor vehicle accident and suffering serious injuries can cause your mental health to plummet, even during the recovery process. However, physiotherapy can also help you heal physically and emotionally after the accident. Attending regular sessions is a great way to keep you active, as well as interact and talk with your physiotherapist.
If you have been injured in a car accident, Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness provides a personalized treatment care plan to help you regain your strength and recover from your injuries. Let our team of physiotherapists help you take back control of your life. Call us today at (519) 341-5161 to book an appointment.
by Malkeet Marahar | Oct 20, 2022 | Health Tips
If you are considering chiropractic care, you may be wondering what to expect after your first adjustment. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to adjust the spine and joints, so it can be difficult to know what will happen when you visit for the first time. In this article, we will discuss the different types of adjustments and what you can expect after each one. We hope this information will help you feel more comfortable with the process and make the most of your chiropractic care.
What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment (sometimes called a chiropractic alignment) is a treatment technique used by chiropractors to improve spine and joint function. The goal of an adjustment is to restore normal alignment and range of motion to the spine and joints. During an adjustment, the chiropractor will apply gentle and controlled force to the affected area. This force helps to loosen joints that are stuck or fixated, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
Adjustments are often combined with other chiropractic techniques such as massage therapy or exercises in order to maximize their effectiveness. Chiropractic neck and back adjustments are among the most common.
The Benefits of a Chiropractic Adjustment
Pain relief is the first benefit that people think of when chiropractic care comes to mind, but that isn’t the only thing it has to offer. In fact, even people who aren’t in pain may find that chiropractic care can help improve their quality of life. Below is a list of some of the benefits of seeing a chiropractor:
- Headache relief
- Reduced inflammation
- Increased joint mobility
- Improved posture
- Improved circulation
Types of Chiropractic Adjustments
There are several different types of adjustments that a chiropractor may use, depending on your individual needs. The most common type of adjustment is manual manipulation, which involves using hands-on techniques to adjust the spine and joints. This type of adjustment is usually gentle and relatively painless.
Another common type of adjustment is the use of a chiropractic tool called an activator. This is a small hand-held device that delivers a gentle impulse to the spine and joints. The activator is often used to adjust the neck and upper back.
Hot or cold therapy is another method chiropractors use. This involves applying heat or cold packs to the area around the spine to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Finally, some chiropractors may use electrical stimulation to adjust the spine and joints. This technique uses a low-voltage electrical current to stimulate the muscles and nerves around the spine.
What to Expect After Your First Adjustment
After your first chiropractic adjustment, you may feel relieved of symptoms that have been bothering you. You may also experience increased energy levels and an improved range of motion. Some people report feeling taller as well.
These changes are often due to the realignment of your spine and the release of pressure on your nervous system. Although you may feel great after your first adjustment, it is important to note that chiropractic care is a process, not a one-time fix.
For optimal results, it is typically recommended to receive regular adjustments. However, how often you need to be seen will depend on your individual needs. During your initial consultation, your chiropractor will develop a care plan that is tailored to your unique situation.
Do Chiropractic Adjustments Hurt?
Whether chiropractic adjustments hurt is the million-dollar question. The fear of pain is probably the main reason people are so apprehensive about visiting a chiropractor for the first time.
The truth is, most people feel great after a chiropractic adjustment. A small percentage of people may feel some discomfort during their adjustment due to their bodies being unaccustomed to the movement. However, this usually subsides shortly after the adjustment is complete.
If you do experience discomfort, don’t worry — your body is just adjusting to the new normal! In fact, many people find that regular chiropractic adjustments help to relieve pain and improve their overall sense of well-being. So if you’re on the fence about whether or not to give chiropractic a try, there’s really nothing to lose – except maybe that nagging pain in your neck or back.
How Often Should You Get Adjusted?
A person’s spine is like the foundation of a house; it needs to be strong and sturdy to support everything else. Just as a house settles over time and can become skewed, so too can the spine. When this happens, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Regular chiropractic back adjustments can help to prevent these problems by keeping the spine aligned and in proper balance. How often a person should get adjusted will depend on individual factors such as age, activity level, and health history. However, most people benefit from receiving 1 to 2 adjustments per month. By getting regular chiropractic care, you can help keep your spine healthy and free from pain.
Who Can Get a Chiropractic Adjustment?
Chiropractic care is most effective for people who have suffered an injury or who have chronic pain. However, it can also be helpful for people who are seeking to improve their overall health.
Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to adjust the spine and other joints in the body. This can help to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and reduce inflammation. In addition, chiropractic care can help to improve blood circulation and boost the immune system. As a result, people of all ages and all levels of health can benefit from seeing a chiropractor.
The Chiropractor in Guelph You’ve Been Looking For
Feeling a little nervous before your first chiropractic adjustment is normal. However, by considering the things we’ve mentioned in this article you can feel more at ease during your visit. If you’re looking for chiropractic care that is professional and compassionate, Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness is ready to help. Our chiropractic treatments are all about helping you feel your best. Contact us today to learn more about our services or call us at (519) 341-5161.
by Malkeet Marahar | Sep 15, 2022 | Health Tips
The practice of massage dates back thousands of years. All of these entail using hands and fingers to push, touch, or manipulate soft tissues. A massage can be extremely relaxing, but it also has many other surprising benefits.
Some massage treatments use long, flowing strokes or quick, percussion-like strokes. Some massage therapists apply lotions and oils, while others do not. If you are new to massage treatment, selecting the best massage may seem difficult. If you don’t know how each kind of massage functions, you’ll likely be paying for something that does not necessarily fit your needs.
What Is Message Therapy?
Massage therapy involves the manipulation of the soft bodily tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to improve a person’s health and wellness.
People have massages for a variety of reasons. The majority of individuals receive massages to lower stress and anxiety, improve range of motion, rehabilitate injuries, lessen pain, and enhance general health and well-being.
If you’re thinking about getting a massage soon but don’t know which type would be good for you, here are the different types of massage therapy and their benefits:
Shiatsu massage combines Chinese and Japanese practices. It evolved from acupuncture, a Chinese treatment, and anma, a traditional Japanese massage. Shiatsu, which literally translates to “finger pressure”, involves applying pressure to the body’s pressure points with the thumbs, hands, elbows, knees, or feet.
There are several long-term benefits of shiatsu massage. For starters, it can help with a wide range of illnesses, including bad posture, joint troubles, headaches, sprains, arthritis, chronic neck and back pain, stress, sleep problems, irregular blood pressure, and digestive disorders. In addition to these benefits, it may aid in the body’s energy recovery and blood circulation improvement.
Since it forms the basis for all other types of massages, it is occasionally referred to as “classic massage.” The purpose of Swedish massage is to improve blood circulation to the main muscle. This type of massage may have both calming and invigorating effects by releasing muscular tension. It could even be beneficial following an injury.
It also significantly contributes to the relief of carpal tunnel syndrome, the decrease of knee arthritis, the improvement of immune system activity, and the reduction of headaches and other musculoskeletal illnesses.
Unlike other forms of massage, deep-tissue massage goes beyond simple relaxation as it applies more pressure than a Swedish massage. Since it focuses on the deeper muscle layers and may be used to heal injuries sustained during sports, a deep-tissue massage is a particularly popular massage therapy among athletes. It is also a well-liked treatment for chronic pain and improves muscle function. Additional deep tissue massage benefits include lowering blood pressure and heart rate, easing tension, and improving muscular mobility.
Myofascial trigger point treatment, often known as trigger point therapy, is an approach created especially to find the source of the pain or the “trigger point”. Once the source is found, pressure will be applied to lessen or finally end the discomfort.
The primary goal of trigger point massage is to relieve the pain at its source. Additionally, it will enable the muscles to relax, stretch, and strengthen. Trigger point massage for your health is quite effective when used often. Additionally, it will aid in preventing the need for surgery to treat persistent pain.
Sports massage was created specifically for athletes. They often concentrate on body parts that have experienced tension and overuse from excessive physical activity. A sports massage’s primary objective is to assist in resolving difficulties and tensions in the soft tissues.
An athlete needs this kind of massage frequently. Sports massage is intended to alleviate tiredness, ease muscle tension, and help athletes perform at their peak levels. Pre- and post-workout sports massages may improve performance, speed up recovery, and reduce the risk of injury.
Compression treatment has a long history, having been utilized to treat inflammation and wounds in the past. Compression therapy involves applying regulated pressure to your legs to improve blood flow, support your veins, and reduce edema. It helps with varicose veins and is perfect for people who spend a lot of time sitting or standing.
If you have stress fractures, arthritis, swollen muscles, or need support for your Achilles and arches, compression socks are an excellent option. Even if you don’t have these issues, there are a variety of compression goods on the market that are intended to boost your athletic performance.
Hot stone massage, also known as stone therapy massage, is a therapeutic method that makes use of flat, hot stones that are either positioned on particular body parts, most frequently along the back or spine.
Hot stone treatment was initially intended to treat muscular discomfort, but it has now gained further advantages with the addition of massage. It is said to lessen cancer symptoms, increase immunity, alleviate auto-immune disease symptoms, relax stress and anxiety, ease muscular tension and discomfort, and encourage sleep.
Thai massage is distinct from other types of massage because the patient actively participates while lying on the floor. Stretching is used to relax the entire body while only light pressure is used. With this type of massage, the body is “compressed, pushed, stretched, and rocked” rather than just kneading the muscles.
The yoga-like stretches used in Thai massage, which fill the body’s tissues with oxygen, are particularly effective. Among the other massage therapy benefits are the treatment of sciatica, headaches, and neck discomfort, as well as the alleviation of pain and stress. The joints also benefit from increased mobility and better blood circulation.
A prenatal massage is an excellent option for women to help them cope with the physical changes occurring in their bodies. This massage technique is a kind of treatment similar to a standard massage but tailored to pregnant women’s requirements and their developing bodies.
Prenatal massages provide several advantages. It promotes overall well-being and aids in stress reduction. This kind of massage is intended to ease the discomfort that pregnant women encounter. Headaches, leg cramps, stiff necks, backaches, leg cramps, and edema or swelling are a few conditions that can be addressed with prenatal massage. Additionally, it reduces the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
Reflexology involves applying light to hard pressure to various pressure points on the hands, feet, and ears. These body parts are supposedly linked to specific organs and bodily systems. Reflexology could assist if you do experience pain and suffering caused by a medical issue.
It works well for those who want to unwind or regain their natural vigour. It’s also an excellent alternative for people who don’t like having their full body rubbed.
Anyone who wants to cope with injuries, illnesses, stress, or worry better can benefit from massage therapy as an alternative or supplemental treatment. Make sure to know the different types so you can maximize the many health benefits of massages.
For massage therapy in Guelph, come to Westwood Physiotherapy. Call (519) 341-5161 to book an appointment today.
