What Do Physiotherapists Do?

Physiotherapists assess and analyze the effect of illness, disability, injury and develop specific treatment plans based on their assessment and the individual client’s goals.

Physiotherapists:

• Assess a client’s level of mobility strength and endurance

• Diagnose their condition and develop a treatment plan to restore movement and reduce limitations, including pain

• Prescribe and demonstrate specific therapeutic exercises, monitor the client’s progress over time, and adjust their treatment according to their needs and preferences

• Prepare the client for independence with the advice of how to manage the condition, including education on complications and prevention of recurring problem

Physiotherapists treat a broad range of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems. Here are some of the ways physiotherapy can help through therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, electrical modalities and a range of techniques.

• Treat and manage neck and back pain and other joint injuries

• Address physical challenges associated with pain, arthritis, repetitive strain injury (such as tennis elbow), etc.

• Treat sports injuries and provide advice on prevention and recurrence

• Provide post surgical rehabilitation including joint replacement

• Maximize mobility for clients with neurological disorders such as stroke, and spinal cord injury

• Treat children with paediatric conditions such as developmental delay, fractures and cardio respiratory conditions

• Assist in the management of incontinence

• Provide pre- and post natal care and other women’s health conditions

• Help manage the physical complications of cancer and its treatments

• Treat and manage respiratory and cardiac conditions and provide cardiac rehabilitation following a heart attach or cardiac surgery

Physiotherapists are experts in movement and mobility, body mechanics, muscles and joints. They help develop an exercise program specially tailored to your needs, putting together the right combination of activities to improve physical fitness and avoid injury.

For an assessment, call 604-520-7375 or visit www.physiotherapycentres.com

What is IMS?

A new understanding of chronic pain! Many people who suffer from chronic pain become frustrated and depressed when their doctors cannot help. Some people try medications and physical therapies (such as massage, physiotherapy and manipulations), even surgery, and do not find lasting relief.

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is an effective treatment for chronic pain of neuropathic origin. IMS was developed by Dr. Chan Gunn while he was a physician at the Worker’s Compensation Board of British Columbia in the 70’s. He is presently President of iSTOP and clinic professor at the University of Washington’s Multi Disciplinary Pain Centre in Seattle. Dr. Gunn has been awarded The Order of Canada, the nation’s highest honor, for his contributions towards solving chronic pain. He has also been elected Honorary Fellow of Peterhouse Cambridge University.

IMS is effective and has few side-effects; the technique is also unequaled for finding and diagnosing muscle shortening in deep muscles.

Although IMS uses implements adapted from traditional acupuncture, it is based on scientific, neurophysiologic principles. The acupuncture needles used is very thin (much thinner than the hollow needle used to inject medicine or take blood samples). You may not even feel it penetrating the skin, and if your muscle is normal, the needle is painless. However, if your muscle is supersensitive and shortened, you’ll feel a peculiar sensation – like a cramp or Charlie Horse. This is distinctive type of discomfort caused by the muscle grasping the needle. Patients soon learn to recognize and welcome this sensation. They call it a “good” or positive pain because it soon disappears and is followed by a wonderful feeling of relief and relaxation. The needle may still be in you, but because the muscle is no longer tight, you no longer feel it. What has happened is that the needling has caused your abnormal muscle shortening to intensify and then release. It is important that you experience this sensation in order to gain lasting relief.

Benefits of Exercise

What if someone told you that a thinner, healthier, and longer life was within your grasp? Sound too good to be true? According to a wealth of research, exercise is the silver bullet for a better quality of life.

Not only does regular exercise aid in weight loss, it reduces your risk for several chronic disease and conditions. Finding activities that you enjoy and that become part of your daily routine is the key to a long and healthy life.

The list of health benefits is impressive, and the requirements are relatively simple – just do it.

A lot of people associate the benefits of exercise to weight loss. This is in fact very true, but exercise has many other health and longevity benefits. It can help prevent or improve these conditions:

Heart Disease and Stroke: Daily physical activity can help prevent heart disease and stroke by strengthening your heart muscle, lowering your blood pressure, raising your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (good cholesterol) and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (bad cholesterol), improving blood flow, and increasing your heart’s working capacity. Physical active individuals have half the risk of coronary heart disease compared to their sedentary counterparts.

High Blood Pressure: Regular physical acitivity can reduce blood pressure in those with high blood pressure levels. People who exercises are 35-50% less likely to develop high blood pressure than those who are inactive.

Type II Diabetes (Non-insulin dependent): By reducing body fatness, physical activity can help to prevent and control this type of diabetes.

Obesity: Physical activity helps to reduce body fat by building or preserving lean muscle mass and improving the metabolism of the body (the body’s ability to burn calories). Obesity is a major risk factor for many diseases.

Back Pain: It has been estimated that up to 70% of low back pain is due to poor muscle tone and flexibility of the lower back muscles and poor abdominal muscles. By increasing muscle strength and endurance and improving flexibility and posture, regular exercise helps to prevent back pain.

Osteoporosis: Regular weight bearing exercises (walking, jogging, stair climbing, weight training etc…) strengthen bone formation and helps prevent the bone loss. Studies have shown that women who walked four or more hours per week had 41% fewer hip fractures than those who walked less than an hour a week.

Psychological Benefits: Four large population studies in the US and Canada have shown that general well-being is somewhat greater, and depression is much less frequent, in those who take exercises relative to those who take little or no exercise.

Improved self-esteem is one of the top benefits of regular physical activity. While exercising, your body releases chemicals called endorphins that can improve your mood. Excises can help you cope with stress ward off depression and anxiety.

How much exercise would be beneficial? For the greatest overall health benefits, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends a combination of aerobic exercises (the type that makes you breath harder, like walking or jogging) for cardiovascular conditioning; strength training (like lift weight) for muscle toning, and stretching to improve your range of motion. Try to do all three types of exercises, but remember that any form and type of exercise is better than nothing.

Here are some easy ways to incorporate physical activities into your life:

• Adopt a dog and take it for walks everyday.

• Park your car at the further end of the parking lot.

• Take the bus or ride your bike to work.

• Take up any sports/games that you enjoy.

• Take stairs instead of using the elevator.

• Do things the old-fashioned way—get up to change the television channel, and use a push lawnmower etc...

• Join a gym or get advises from fitness professionals.

How can we help you?

At Helping Hands, our knowledgeable Kinesiologists are University trained professionals that specializes in designing personalized exercise programs to help you achieve whatever your fitness goals are. Whether is to improve general fitness levels, to have a personalized home based exercise programs, to have a water/pool based programs, or to enhance sports performance, our team members will be able to help you!

Please feel free to book an appointment today with our Kinesiologist for a consultation to get you started visit http://www.physiotherapycentres.com/ or call 604-939-2833!

Proper Lifting Techniques

Improper lifting technique could cause acute and chronic injuries to the back, legs, or arms.


Here are some of the ways that could help to prevent injuries while lifting.


1) Plain ahead before lifting

Knowing what you will be doing and where you will go will prevent you from making awkward movements while lifting something heavy. Make sure you make a clear path before you lift. If lifting something with another person, make sure the other person has the same plan in mind.


2) Test the weight of the load

If it feels too heavy, ask for help, or use a mechanical lifting device if it’s available. Don’t try to be the hero.

3) Position your body close to the load.

You will have a greater mechanical advantage if you keep the load close to your spine versus away from the body. Make sure you have a firm grip on the object and keep it balanced close to your body.


4) Feet shoulder width apart

A solid base of support is important while lifting. Try to have the load between the knees if possible.


5) Bend your knees and keep your back straight.

Bending at the waist should never be permitted. Never try to catch a falling load. The risk of injury increases when the lower back is rounded.


6) Keep your head up.

The more vertical your posture, the lower your risk of injury.


7) Tighten your stomach muscles and lift with your legs.

By tightening your abdominal muscles will help to brace your spine in a good lifting position. This will also help prevent excessive force on the spine. Your legs are so much stronger than your back muscles. Therefore bend your knees and use the power from your legs.


8) Breathe out as you begin to lift.

This increases tension in your abdominal muscles. Do not hold your breath during a lift; this increase pressure in the abdomen.


9) Always keep your shoulders in line with your feet.

Twisting significantly increases the load on the spine, which increases the risk of injury. Never twist even when carrying light objects.


10) Proper lowering is just as important as lifting.

It is dangerous to drop or throw a load. Bend the knees, keep the back straight, and breath.

Preventing Falls: What You Should Know

Falls are the leading cause of home injury and death among adults age 65 and older. In recent decades the number and frequency of fatal injuries caused by falls among older adults has increased dramatically throughout the world because of an increasing number of older people. Each year, more than 4,700 Americans aged 65 and older die as a result of falls, and more than a million elderly Americans are admitted to hospital emergency rooms to treat injuries related to falls, according to the Home Safety Council.

Falls generally result from an interaction of various risk factors and situations. Frequently, older people are not aware of their risks of falling and often do not recognize risk factors. Although no single risk factor causes all falls, the greater the number of risk factors to which an individual is exposed, the greater the probability of a fall and the more likely the results of the fall will threaten the person’s independence. Even a fall that does not cause an injury can limit confidence and the ability to be comfortable living independently.

Risk factors responsible for a fall are considered to be either physical (i.e. – leg weakness, poor grip strength, visual problems, balance disorders) or environmental (i.e. - poor lighting, loose carpets, lack of bathroom equipment). Many of these risk factors are considered to be preventable. As obvious as it may sound, a lack of knowledge about risk factors and how to prevent them contributes to many falls. Some people believe that falls are a normal part of aging, and as such are not preventable. However, lack of knowledge leads to lack of preventative action, resulting in falls.

For many elderly people, the home can be a hazardous place. Homes with loose throw rugs, runners and mats, curled carpet edges, poor lighting, slippery uncarpeted floors and stairs can turn into “booby traps.” A Yale School of Medicine study of people ages 72 and older living in and around New Haven, Connecticut, found that the most dangerous part of the house was the floor in the living rooms, bedrooms and hallways. Stairways were the second most dangerous zone, according to the study, published in the American Journal of Public Health. Night lights and light switches at the top and bottom of stairways were missing, as were handrails.

Bathrooms were also considered to be dangerous due to the fact that tubs and showers usually lacked nonskid mats, abrasive strips, and grab bars. In addition to poor lighting, toilets were typically too wobbly or too low for an older person to rise from safely. Kitchens were next on the list, with poor lighting, unstable step stools and storage areas that required an older person to reach high or bend low.

Since one-third of all falls in the elderly involve environmental hazards in the home, it may be useful to conduct a walk-through of your home to identify possible problems that may lead to falling. A home visit by an occupational therapist might also be useful in that they are trained to identify risk factors and recommend appropriate actions. Recommendations are specific and comprehensive and often include measures to improve home safety such as the addition of grab bars in the bathroom, removal of loose area rugs, and using alternate colors to denote changes in surface structures.

Some of the reasons seniors tend to fall more often are a result of physical changes such as lack of flexibility and muscle strength, especially in their legs. Failure to exercise regularly results in poor muscle tone, decreased strength, and loss of bone mass, which contribute to falls and the severity of injury due to falls. Recent studies have found that physical activity is an effective intervention strategy for preventing falls in older people. A supervised strength and endurance training program prescribed by a physiotherapist has been found to be effective in reducing the rate of falling by more than 30 %, according to the British Medical Journal.

Physiotherapists play a key role in identifying those at risk of falling and providing interventions such as exercise to improve balance and strength, prescription of appropriate walking aids and activities to maximize endurance, fitness and bone density. For people at high risk of falling, physiotherapists can also intervene to reduce the severity of a fall by recommending injury-reducing equipment such as hip-protectors. Recent research has also identified that balance in women begins to decline after the age of 40 due to changes in sensation and vision. Exercise programs designed by physiotherapists incorporating vision and head movements can also improve balance in the ‘under 60s’ to reduce the likelihood of future falls. Exercise groups and activity programs designed and implemented by physiotherapists are also effective in optimizing balance and fitness for people with conditions that may restrict participation in general activity programs, such as those with diabetes, arthritis, or neurological dysfunction.

For more information or to book an appointment with a Physiotherapist, visit us at www.physiotherapycentres.com or cal 604-941-3055.

Bowen Therapy Sessions

What Happens in a Bowen Therapy Session?


Gentle movements composed of subtle rolling of connective tissue in a series of patterns initiate the treatment. There are pauses between movements to allow the brain time to process and send messages to the body. It is thought that stimulation of the brain, reawakens the original, genetic pattern, and more recent injury and compensation patterns are released. The pauses enable the body sufficient time to receive and process the messages and restore a healthy, natural balance.

Sessions usually last 45 minutes to an hour. Subsequent visits (usually a minimum of 4) are scheduled one week later, in order to complete the foundation of the work in the body.

It is advisable to allow a week between sessions of any other physical modalities and Bowen Therapy.

To book an appointment call 604-856-8989

Bowen Treatment

Bowen Treatment Can Help With:


• Arthritic Pain

• Asthma

• Back Pain (Chronic & Acute)

• Bunions

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Fibromyalgia

• Gait Disorders

• Headaches & Migraines

• Leg Length Issues

• Foot & Ankle Issues

• Frozen Shoulder & Tendonitis Pains

• Hammer Toes & Heel Spurs

• Hay Fever, Sinusitis & Allergies

• Knee & Hip Issues

• Pelvic & Sacral Iliac Joint Unevenness

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Pre-Menstrual Syndrome

• Tennis & Golfers Elbow

• TMJ Syndrome

• Scoliosis

• Shin Splints

To learn more visit www.physiotherapycentres.com or call 604-856-8989

Thank You Guildford Physiotherapy

Thank you so much for giving me the pleasure of working with each and every one of you.  It's been a great eight months.  Take care and have a wonderful 2012! 

Liz

Low Back Pain

Have you ever experienced low back pain? Unfortunately, chances are that you either have or that you will. For most people, this pain is short-lived, but for a small percentage, low back pain can become chronic. What options are available for you if you are coping with chronic low back pain?




Ask yourself, Do I have good days and bad days? If you do, then something must be aggravating your pain, such as certain movements and postures. A Kinesiologist or Physiotherapist can help you analyze how you move and help to identify possible aggravating movements or postures. Key to decreasing chronic pain is to eliminate aggravation, so by discovering what leads to increases in your pain and removing these factors, you may help to decrease your pain.



Before exercising, you should focus on creating and maintaining a neutral spine. The spine is considered to be neutral when it is in its natural alignment, preserving the curves of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. The spine and its surrounding structures and put under the least amount of stress when in this position, and this position is usually non-aggravating. A Kinesiologist or Physiotherapist will guide and instruct you on how to find your neutral spine.



Once you have learned how to find a neutral spine, it is time to exercise! Exercises should emphasize creating endurance rather than strength in the muscles of the back. Strong backs tend to be injured backs! Your muscles must be strong over a long period of time in order to maintain posture for the duration of the day, including during activity. Specific exercises can be prescribed for you to address your own unique weaknesses, goals, and activities. Find an experienced Kinesiologist who will design a program unique to your needs.



Yoga can also help to decrease back pain. Yoga’s focus on alignment during movement reflects the importance of creating endurable strength in neutral to help reduce pain. Yoga also improves body-awareness by strengthening the mind-body connection and creating calmness in practitioners. Increasing relaxation and decreasing stress are important for decreasing back pain. Look for an instructor who has worked with low back pain sufferers previously and make sure they are aware of your pain – not all poses will be appropriate for you.



For more information on managing your chronic low back pain, we invite you to attend an information session at one of our clinics! Call your nearest location to find out upcoming dates!  http://www.physiotherapycentres.com/

Sciatica

Leg Pain
The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease. – Attributed to Thomas Edison

What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a natural method of healthcare that treats the causes of physical problems, such as low-back, hip and leg pain, rather than just the symptoms. Physiotherapy is based on a simple but powerful premise: With a normally functioning spine and nerves and a healthy lifestyle, your body is better able to heal itself. That’s because the spinal cord, which is protected by the spine, is the main pathway of your nervous system. The nervous system controls movement, feeling and function throughout your body.

What causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is an inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body. It runs from your lower spine, through your buttocks and into your leg and foot. When the sciatic nerve is inflammed it can cause numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in your lower back and leg.

• Inflamed Joint - If a bone (vertebra) in your lower back isn’t moving properly or is out of position, the joint can become inflamed and irritate the sciatic nerve.

• Bulging Disc - If one of the cushions (discs) between your vertebrae is bulging, it can irritate or put pressure on the sciatic nerve.

• Muscle Spasm - If a muscle in your lower back or buttocks is inflamed or tightening (in spasm), it can irritate or put pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Can Physiotherapy Care Help Me?
Your physiotherapist looks at your overall health – focusing not only on your sciatic but also on your lifestyle. This total approach to wellness helps determine the best treatment for your problem.

History
To help find the cause of your sciatica, you and your physiotherapist discuss your symptoms, such as where you feel pain. Your physiotherapist also asks about any prior injuries, your health history and your lifestyle, including work related and leisure activities.

Physical Exam
Physical, orthopedic (bone and muscle), and neurological (nerve) tests can help reveal the condition of the vertebrae, discs and muscles in your spine. Your physiotherapist gently touches and moves your spine to locate muscle spasms and pain and to see how well each vertebra moves.

Tests
X-rays may be done to reveal any problems with your vertebrae. If needed other imaging tests, such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), may be used to show detailed images of discs, nerves and other soft tissue.

Diagnosis
Based on the results of your exam and tests, you physiotherapist may recommend a treatment program to relieve the irritation that’s causing your pain and other symptoms. If needed, your physiotherapist also consults with your referring or family doctor.

How Does a Physiotherapist Treat Sciatica?
Your physiotherapist is trained to restore the health of your spine and sciatic nerve. Special physiotherapy methods may relieve the irritation that’s causing your low-back or leg pain.

Spinal Adjustments
Your treatment depends on the cause of your sciatica. During a spinal adjustment, your physiotherapist gently presses on your spine to relieve irritated nerves and increase movement in your joints.

Related Treatment
Your physiotherapist may suggest other types of treatment to relieve irritated nerves. These may include electrical stimulation, ice or heat, massage, traction or ultrasound. Your physiotherapist can discuss these options with you.

What Can I Do to Keep My Back in Shape?
Whether you’re lying down, standing or sitting, keep your spine straight and well supported. Be sure to follow the exercise program your physiotherapist gives you.

To help mold and align your spine, lie down for 15-20 minutes a day with a small pillow or small rolled-up towel under your neck and lower back. Keep your knees slightly bent. Check with your physiotherapist before trying this.

Spinal Checkups
Just as you need regular dental exams, you also need regular spinal exams. Even if you don’t have symptoms, physiotherapy is one of the best ways to manage or prevent spinal problems and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

To book an appointment call 604-520-7375 or visit our website at http://www.physiotherapycentres.com/

Working In Comfort

How can you stay comfortable working at your computer desk? By remembering simple ways to stay fit: the right posture and position and the right moves.


The Right Posture

Sitting correctly is the first rule of comfort. Good posture and position support the parts of your body that could otherwise get stiff or sore.

The Right Moves

Move into comfort by doing simple stretches and exercises right at your desk. They’re the perfect way to prevent everyday aches and pains.

Understanding Ankle Sprains

Understanding Ankle Sprains



What causes Ankle Sprains?
The ankle is one the most common places in the body for a sprain. Every day thousands of people sprain their ankles. Landing wrong on your foot can cause the ankle to roll to the side. This can stretch or tear ligaments. Ankle sprains can occur at any time, such as when you step off a curb or play sports. Once you’ve had an ankle sprain, you may be more likely to sprain that ankle again.

Symptoms
Your symptoms depend on how badly the ligaments are damaged. You may have little pain and swelling if the ligaments are only stretched. If the ligaments tear, you will have more pain and swelling. The more severe the sprain, the less you’ll be able to move the ankle or put weight on it. The ankle may also then black and blue and the bruising may extend into the foot and leg.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Your physiotherapist will look at your ankle and ask about your symptoms. You may also have x-rays to rule out a broken bone. Treatment will depend on how bad your sprain is. For a severe sprain, healing may take 3 months or more.

Exercises
After about 2 to 3 weeks, you may be given exercises to strengthen the ligaments and muscles in the ankle. Doing these exercises will help prevent another ankle sprain. Exercises may include standing on your toes and then on your heels and doing ankle curls.

Ankle Curls
- Sit on the edge of sturdy table or lie on your back

- Pull your toes toward you. Then point them away from you. Repeat for 2 to 3 minutes

Right after your injury
Rest: At first, keep weight off the ankle as much as you can. You may be given crutches to help you walk without putting weight on the ankle.

Ice: Put an ice pack on the ankle for 15 minutes. Remove the pack and wait at least 30 minutes. Repeat for up to 3 days. This helps reduce swelling.

Compression: To reduce swelling and keep the joint stable, you may need to wrap the ankle with an elastic bandage. For more severe sprains, you may need an ankle brace or a cast

Elevation: To reduce swelling, keep your ankle raised above your heart when you sit or lie down.

Contrast Baths
After about 3 days, soak your ankle in warm water for 30 seconds. Then soak it in cool water for 30 seconds. Go back and forth for 5 minutes. Doing this every 2 hours will help keep the swelling down.

Inside Your Ankle
Your ankle joint is where the bones in your leg and foot meet. Strong bands of tissue called ligaments connect these bones. Muscles run from the lower leg across the ankle into the foot. The ligaments and muscles help keep the ankle joint stable when you move.

When Ligaments Tear
If you twist or turn your ankle, the ligaments can stretch or tear. This is called a sprain. A sprain can be mild, moderate or severe. This depends on how badly the ligaments are damaged.

Mild sprains- occur when ligaments are stretched or slightly torn

Moderate sprains- occur when ligaments are partly torn

Severe sprains- occur when ligaments are completely torn

Preventing Future Problems
To help keep your ankle stable, wear sturdy shoes. You may want to tape your ankle or wear a brace if you play sports. Doing the exercise below helps strengthen the muscles and ligaments around your ankle. It also gives you better balance.

Balancing Exercise
- Stand up straight. With your eyes open, balance on the leg with the injured ankle. Life the other foot off the ground. Hold for 1 to 2 minutes. Then lower your foot

- When you are able, repeat the first step with your eyes closed.

- Do this 4 times a day.

For more information or an appointment, call 604-939-2833 to book an appointment of visit http://www.physiotherapycentres.com/

Foot Ganglions

Foot Ganglions
What Are Ganglions?

A Ganglion is a fluid-filled swelling of the lining of a joint or tendon. Although ganglions can form on any part of the foot, they most often appear on the ankle or top of the foot. Ganglions tend to change in size and usually grow slowly.

Causes
Repeated irritation can weaken the lining of a joint or tendon and lead to ganglions. People who wear boots are more vulnerable to ganglions, as this type of footwear puts stress on the ankle. Bone spurs (bony outgrowths) may also cause ganglions by irritating the joints and tendons.

Symptoms
Ganglions often form with no symptoms. But if the ganglion puts pressure on the nerves in the overlying skin, it can cause tingling, numbness or pain. Ganglions sometimes swell and their size can change with different activities or a change in weather.

How Are They Diagnosed?
Because Ganglions are sometimes mistaken for tumors its important to have a complete examination and, possibly, tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Medical History
Your physiotherapist may ask you questions such as how long you’ve had the ganglion, what kind of symptoms you’re feeling. If it has changed in size, or if its size varies according to your activities.

Physical Exam
During your evaluation, your physiotherapist may do a translumination exam, shining a light through the swelling (usually you can see through a ganglion but not through a tumor). When your foot is palpated (pressed), a ganglion feels spongy and the fluid moves from side to side.

Tests
If a bone spur is suspected, x-rays may be needed. Fluid removal (needle aspiration) may be done to help determine the degree of swelling and to decrease pain. To confirm a ganglion, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be done, which reveals images of soft tissue and bone. Sometimes, special dyes may be injected into the area.

How Are Ganglions Treated?
Ganglions are often difficult to treat without surgery- but nonsurgical methods may be helpful in relieving some of your symptoms

Nonsurgical Care
• Pads placed around the ganglion can ease pressure and friction.

• Fluid removal may also relieve symptoms, though ganglions mat recur.

• Limiting movements or activities that increase pain may bring relief

• Icing the ganglion for 15-20 minutes may temporarily relieve inflammation and pain.

• If your inflammation is severe, your podiatrist may treat your symptoms and medication.

Will I Need Surgery?
If a Ganglion is causing ongoing or severe pain, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. The entire ganglion wall is removed during the procedure; some surrounding tissue may also be removed.

After Surgery
You may feel pain, swelling, numbness, or tingling for several weeks following surgery. You’ll probably be able to walk soon afterward, though your foot may need to be wrapped or in a cast. Be sure to see your podiatrist if you notice any problems in the future. Although surgery is usually successful, there is a chance that the ganglion will recur.

For more information call to book an assessment with a physiotherapist at 604-941-3055

Scoliosis

Physiotherapy Care

Scoliosis

Spinal Curvature

What is Scoliosis?
Usually a result of heredity or injury, scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine that can lead to increasing back pain and stiffness. Scoliosis is seen more often in females than in males, and it usually begins in childhood. If left untreated, symptoms can become severe.

A Balanced Spine
From the front, the spine looks like a straight line from the neck to the hips.

An Unbalanced Spine
Vertebrae, the bones in your spine, are curved to the side instead of straight.

Discs, which absorb shock between vertebrae, may bulge, rupture, or wear down.

Nerves, which travel through the vertebrae and carry the body’s messages, may be pinched or irritated.

Muscles, may be overused on one side of your body and weak on the other side.

History, X-rays, and Physical Exam
You and your physiotherapist will discuss your symptoms, any injuries, your family health history, and your lifestyle, including your physical activities. X-rays, the “blueprints” of your spine, may be taken to reveal the condition of your vertebrae. During the physical exam, a series of other tests may also be done.

A grid test or postural analysis shows whether your ears, shoulders, and hips are level.

The bend-over test shows whether one side of your back is raised and the spine curved to one side.

Diagnosis
Based on the examination and findings, your physiotherapist may begin an individualized treatment program to stabilize your scoliosis or improve your spinal health. If needed, your physiotherapist will also consult with other medical specialists about your condition.

Special Exercises
Your physiotherapist may suggest exercises that can strengthen the weak side of your body and stretch the tight side. Be sure to do only those exercises that your physiotherapist recommends.

Other Treatments
To help stretch your spine and improve its alignment and mobility, your physiotherapist may recommend other types of treatment – such as moist heat, ice packs, traction, or orthopedic support.

What Can I Do to Help My Spine?
Smart Support
Strengthen your spine by staying aware of your posture. Whether standing, sitting, or lying down, keep your spine straight and supported. Be sure to continue any exercise program that your physiotherapist may have recommended.

To help mold and align your spine, lie down for 15-20 minutes a day with a rolled-up towel under your neck and lower back. Check with your physiotherapist before trying this.

Spinal Checkups
Just as you need regular dental exams, you also need regular spinal exams. Physiotherapy is one of the best ways to detect and control scoliosis. Your physiotherapist can help you and your family maintain healthier lives with healthier spines.

Visit http://www.physiotherapycentres.com/ for more information or call 604-941-3055 to book an appointment now.

What is Kinesiology. Kinesiologist. Kin.

Chances are you either know someone who has studied Kin, have seen a Kinesiologist yourself, or you’ve never heard of this. So what IS Kinesiology?? Simply, it is the study of human movement. And a Kinesiologist is someone who has completed a Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology and is a practicing member of the British Columbia Association of Kinesiologists (BCAK) and/or the Canadian Kinesiology Alliance (CKA). This means that your Kinesiologist has spent 4 years studying how the body functions and moves, and has become a specialist in movement and corrective exercise. Kinesiologists can help you by developing a specific exercise program to correct movement patterns when faulty movements are causing pain. For example, someone who suffers from chronic back pain may benefit from Kinesiology treatments by improving posture and core endurance, while helping to eliminate movements that may be causing pain. How would you know if movements are causing pain? Ask yourself, ‘Do I have better and worse days?’ If the answer is YES, then some movements or postures that you make are aggravating and easing your pain. A Kinesiologist can help you figure out what movements aggravate and eliminate or modify these movements! Seeking the advice of a Kinesiologist is also beneficial for individuals who are looking to increase their activity levels but may have a previous injury or may be unsure of how to exercise safely. While many Kinesiologists also work with athletes, anyone can benefit from Kinesiology treatment, and we welcome everyone to come see our Kinesiologists! No referral required! Come see: Courtney Perrson in Guildford and Langley Jamie Masaro in Guildford Marissa Joel in Burke Mountain and New Westminster Diana Doan in Coquitlam

Dear Kristan

Warm thoughts can make the sun a little brighter, the sky a little bluer, the world a little nicer. Dear Kristan, Thank you for a very informative interview. I have not experienced a group interview before. I would enjoy being part of your team and would be an asset to your company. Sincerely, A

Warm Thoughts

to the front desk team at Guildford, Thank you for being so pleasant. I hope to meet up with you again sometime. Sincerely, Annette Warm thoughts can make the sun a little brighter, the sky a little bluer, the world a little nicer.

Preventing Falls: What You Should Know

Falls are the leading cause of home injury among adults age 65 and older. In recent decades the number and frequency of fatal injuries caused by falls among older adults has increased dramatically throughout the world. Each year, more than 4700 Americans aged 65 and older die as a result of falls, and more than a million elderly Americans are admitted to hospital emergency rooms to treat injuries related to falls, according to the Home Safety Council. Falls generally result from an interaction of various risk factors and situations. Frequently, older people are not aware of their risks of falling and often do not recognize risk factors. Although no single factors cause all falls, the greater the number of risk factors to which an individual is exposed, the greater the probability of a fall and the more likely the results of the fall will threaten the person’s independence. Even a fall that does not cause an injury can limit confidence and the ability to be comfortable living independently. Risk factors responsible for a fall are considered to be either environmental (i.e. poor lighting, loose carpets, lack of bathroom equipment) or physical (i.e. leg weakness, poor grip, strength, visual problem, balance disorders). Many of these risk factors are considered to be preventable. As obvious as it may sound, a lack of knowledge about risk factors and how to prevent them contributes to many falls. Come people believe that falls are a normal part of aging, and such are not preventable. However, lack of knowledge leads to lack of preventative action, resulting in falls. For many elderly people, the home can be a hazardous place. Homes with loose throw rugs, runners and mats, curled carpet edges, poor lighting, slippery uncarpeted floors and stairs can turn into “booby traps”. A Yale School of Medicine study of people ages 72 and older living in and around New Haven, Connecticut, found that the most dangerous part of the house was the floor in the living rooms, bedrooms and hallways. Stairways were the second most dangerous zone, according to the study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, which went on to recommend the use of night lights and light switched at the top and bottom of the stairways as well as handrails. Bathrooms were also considered to be dangerous due to the fact that tubs and showers usually lacked non skid mats, abrasive strips and grab bars. In addition to poor lighting, toilets were typically too wobbly or too low for an older person to rise from safely. Kitchens were next on the list, with poor lighting , unstable step stools and storage areas that required an older person to reach high or bend low. Since one-third of all falls in the elderly involve environmental hazards in the home, it may be useful to conduct a walk-through of your home to identify possible problems that may lead to falling. A home visit by an occupational therapist might also be useful in that they are trained to identify risk factors and recommend appropriate actions. Recommendations are specific and comprehensive and often include measures to improve home safety such as the addition of grab bars in the bathroom, removal of loose area rugs, and using alternate colors to denote changes in the surface structures. Some of the reasons seniors tend to fall more often are result of physical changes such as lack of flexibility and muscle strength, especially in their legs. Failure to exercise regularly results in poor muscle tone, decreased strength, and loss of bone mass, which contribute to falls and the severity of injury due to falls. Recent studies have found that physical activity is an effective intervention strategy for preventing falls in older people. A supervised strength and endurance training program prescribed by a physiotherapist has been found to be effective in reducing the rate of falling by more than 30% according to the British Medical Journal. Physiotherapist play a key role in identifying those at risk of falling and providing interventions such as exercise to improve balance and strength, prescription of appropriate walking aids and activities to maximize endurance, fitness and bone density. For people at high risk of falling, they can also intervene to reduce the severity of a fall by prescribing injury- reducing braces such as hip protectors. Recent research has also identified that balance in women begins to decline after the age of 40 due changes in sensation and vision. Exercise programs incorporating vision and head movements can also improve balance in the ‘under 60’s’ to reduce the likelihood of future falls. Exercise groups and activity programs and activity programs designed and implemented by physiotherapist are also effective in optimizing balance and fitness for people with conditions that may restrict participation in general activity programs, such as those with diabetes, arthritis, or neurological dysfunction.