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Discover the Benefits of Regular Massage Therapy Treatments

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couple walking on road

As the warmer spring weather slowly makes its way into the forecast, Canadians are heading outside for some fresh air and outdoor activity.

Whether your activity of choice is gardening, golfing, running or biking, there’s a good chance you’ll fail to prepare your body properly for the additional exertion and need some form of rehabilitation. Before you reach for the pill bottle for a quick and temporary fix, consider how massage therapy can help you to stay active and healthy, while improving your athletic performance.

Used regularly by professional athletes, massage is one of the most effective forms of injury rehabilitation therapy for speeding up the healing process and preventing re-injury. Regular massage therapy treatments not only reduce the risk of soft-tissue injury, they reduce the recovery time, helping you maintain flexibility and optimal range of motion.

Boost Your Body’s Own Healing Process

For the weekend athlete, regular massage therapy treatments help to boost the body’s own healing process, allowing it to break down adhesions and scar tissue. Massage also helps reintroduce blood flow for improved circulation, which brings cell nutrition and oxygen to those muscle cells to revitalize and renew. If you don’t allow your body to fully heal and recover before participating in your next exercise session or sports event, the odds of suffering an injury are higher.

Massage therapy helps to relax and relieve tension in the body with a combination of hand strokes and gentle oils, explains athlete and author Brad Walker at stretchcoach.com. Some massage treatments may not have immediate health effects. These deep tissue massages release fluids and tension within deep muscles. The effects are normally delayed, but the next day the general overall feeling is vastly improved.

Other benefits include:

Massage Therapy Ajax Pickering

Improved circulation and general nutrition of muscles.
This appears to be the most valuable fitness-related benefit. Massage is accompanied or followed by an increasing interchange of substances between the blood and the tissue cells, which increases tissue metabolism. Massage maximizes the supply of nutrients and oxygen through increased blood flow, which helps the body rebuild itself.

Improved range of motion and muscle flexibility.
This results in increased power and performance, which helps you work efficiently and with proper intensity to facilitate the body’s muscle-building response.

Shortens recovery time between workouts.
Waste products such as lactic and carbonic acid build-up in muscles after exercise. Increased circulation to these muscles helps to eliminate toxic debris and shorten recovery time.

Prevention/healing of injuries.
By stretching connective tissue, massage improves circulation to help prevent or break down adhesions. Massage also influences the excretion of certain fluids (nitrogen, phosphorous, sulphur) necessary for tissue repair.

Types of Massage

Each type of massage is employed to address a specific need.

  • Trigger Point Therapy: A trigger point is a tight area within muscle tissue that causes pain in other parts of the body. Trigger point massage therapy is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. In this type of massage for trigger point therapy, the recipient actively participates through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort.
  • Swedish Massage: Swedish massage therapy is the modality that comes to mind when most people think about massage. As the best-known type of bodywork performed today, one of the primary goals of the Swedish massage technique is to relax the entire body. This is accomplished by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. But Swedish massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. Swedish massage is exceptionally beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle toxins, improving circulation and flexibility while easing tension.
  • Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue massage therapy is similar to Swedish massage, but the deeper pressure is beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension. The focus is on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons and fascia (the protective layer surrounding muscles, bones and joints).
  • Sports Massage: Sports massage therapy is geared toward athletes. The particulars of the sports massage technique are specific to the athlete’s sport of choice. Focusing on areas of the body that are overused and stressed from repetitive and often aggressive movements.

At Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage, our registered massage therapists employ a variety of hands-on techniques to assess and treat the soft tissues and joints of the body. If you’re looking for massage therapy in Ajax or Pickering, call our clinic at 905-427-3202 to make an appointment with Ajax massage therapists Jessica Raedisch or Rolf Castanheiro.

With notes from stretchcoach.com.

Seven Reasons to Up Your Activity Level This Spring

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senior women walking on path

With spring just a week away and warmer weather within sight, many of us are getting ready to hit the streets and hiking trails on a more frequent basis.

At Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage, we know how important it is to keep your body moving! As spine, muscle, and nervous system experts, chiropractors Dr. John Noble and Dr. Mark Fera would like to share a few reasons for you to stay active:

1. It helps relieve low back pain

If you’ve found yourself sitting more in the past year, it isn’t helping your back pain. Exercise, especially core strengthening, has been shown to be very effective in improving the function of your back.

2. It improves bone health

Current evidence shows that exercise can increase bone density and decrease the risk of falls and fractures in the elderly. Studies have also shown that exercise is comparable to medication in improving the day-to-day functioning of people with osteoarthritis.

3. It helps prevent obesity

Obesity is often linked to many life-threatening illnesses (e.g., diabetes or high blood pressure). There is strong evidence that exercise is important for preventing weight gain as well as keeping your weight stable after you’ve shed some pounds.

4. It helps improve your mental health

Social isolation during the pandemic has made people feel anxious and stressed. Physical exercise can have a positive effect in the long-term management of psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and chronic stress!

5. It helps manage diabetes

Diabetes affects approximately 2.5 million Canadians, with over 200,000 cases being diagnosed every year. Researchers around the globe have all found that regular exercise, along with dietary changes, can help manage diabetes.

6. It prevents your risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease

Cancer and heart disease are the leading causes of death in Canada. There is increasing evidence that shows exercise can help protect you from developing cancer in the colon, breast, uterus, and prostate. Studies have also shown that exercise lessens your risk of developing heart disease because it helps reduce the amount of fats and cholesterol in the body (both play a role in damaging your arteries).

7. It can help improve brain health

Individuals who exercise regularly may have a decreased risk of developing dementia. It may also improve balance and function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Enjoy the warmer weather and improve your overall health by making exercise a part of your daily routine.

At Pickering Village Chiropractic and Massage, we provide our patients with more than just chiropractic and massage therapy services, but also the know-how to build better personal wellness habits so you can be at your best for work or play, every day.

To book an appointment or learn more about the chiropractic and therapeutic massage therapy services available at our clinic, call 905-427-3202.

 

With content from the Canadian Chiropractic Association.

Tips for Taking the (Back) Pain Out of Your Next Vacation

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March is here and with it comes the mass exodus of families heading off to sunny destinations.

In the excitement of packing for a vacation or family visit, it’s easy to get carried away and pack more than you need into your suitcase and carry-on.

“Over-packed luggage and improper lifting and carrying techniques are common causes of injury to the back, neck and shoulders,” says Ajax chiropractor Dr. John Noble. “The good news is that many of these injuries can be easily prevented.”

Follow these tips and help take the pain out of your next vacation:

Tips for Choosing Your Luggage

  1. When shopping for new luggage, look for a sturdy, light, high-quality and transportable piece. Avoid purchasing luggage that is too heavy or bulky when empty.
  2. Choosing a bag with wheels and a handle can go a long way to lighten your load.
  3. A good quality backpack with adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a waist strap makes an ideal carry-on because, when worn properly, backpacks can evenly distribute weight.

Tips for Packing Your Luggage

  1. Over-packing is an easy pitfall, but consider that the larger and heavier the luggage, the more susceptible a traveller is to neck, back and shoulder injuries. Try to only pack what you absolutely need.
  2. When possible, place items in a few smaller bags, instead of one large luggage piece.
  3. Ensure your carry-on luggage does not weigh more than 10 to 15 percent of your body weight.
  4. Keep the contents of any carry-on luggage to a minimum, pack heavy items at the bottom of the bag and make efficient use of the bag’s pockets.

How to Lift and Carry Your Luggage

Lifting your luggage can’t always be avoided, even if your luggage has wheels. But practising safe lifting techniques can substantially reduce your risk of injury.

  1. Move slowly and, whenever possible, break the action into smaller parts. For instance, when loading a suitcase in the trunk of a car, try lifting it first onto a chair or step stool, then lifting it into the trunk. Similarly, when placing luggage in an overhead com­partment, first lift it onto the top of the seat.
  2. When lifting your luggage, first get close to the load and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  3. Bend at the knees and let your leg muscles, rather than your back, do the lifting.
  4. Hold the load close to your body.
  5. Avoid twisting. Instead, turn your feet in the direction you are headed and turn your entire body in that direction.
  6. Do not carry bulky luggage for long peri­ods of time. Make sure to check heavier items when travelling rather than carrying them for the duration of the trip.
  7. Try to carry light pieces in each hand rather than a single heavy item on one side.
  8. If using a backpack, use both shoulder straps and the waist strap, and adjust them to minimize the bag’s movement.
  9. If using a duffel or shoulder bag, switch sides often to reduce strain.

If you’re experiencing neck, shoulder or back pain, consider visiting the chiropractic and massage therapy team at Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage. We help our patients build better pathways to overall wellness, as well as provide relief from back pain and muscle aches. Contact our clinic today at 905-427-3202.

Five Tips for Minimizing Pregnancy-Related Back Pain

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Did you know that at least half of pregnant women experience back pain? And 10% of those report discomfort severe enough to disrupt their daily routines. The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect your back during pregnancy.

What causes pregnancy-related back pain in the first place?

During pregnancy, it’s normal to gain more than 30 pounds, with the extra weight placing considerable stress on your back, feet, ankles and knees. As your baby grows, your core abdominal muscles become stretched and cannot stabilize your posture as well as they did before.

In the third trimester, levels of a hormone called “relaxin” increase by a factor of ten. Relaxin loosens your joints to allow the pelvis to accommodate the enlarging uterus. These loose joints force the muscles of the back and pelvis to work overtime to keep you upright and balanced, leading to back pain.

Try these tips to help minimize your risk of back pain:

Exercise

Exercise can go a long way to increase muscle support for an aching back. A healthcare practitioner should always be consulted before starting a new exercise regimen. Low-impact cardiovascular activities, such as swimming, walking, or stationary cycling can help relieve pain and maintain fitness.

Sleep Position

Sleep on your left side to reduce the pressure of your uterus on the large blood vessels in your abdomen, optimizing blood flow to both you and the baby.

Pillow Position

Place a pillow between your knees to take pressure off your lower back when sleeping on your side.

Support Your Body

With the added weight, support has never been more important. Wear flat, supportive shoes and use a lumbar support pillow in your chair at home or work. If you sit at a computer or desk, walk around for a few minutes each hour.

Take Breaks

Take frequent, short breaks with your feet elevated. Adequate rest restores your energy and gives your back a chance to relax.

If you’re experiencing back pain, consider visiting the chiropractic and massage therapy team at Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage. We help our patients build better pathways to overall wellness, as well as provide relief from back pain and muscle aches. Contact our clinic today at 905-427-3202.

With content from the Ontario Chiropractic Association

Introduce Someone You Love to Chiropractic Care During Sweetheart Appreciation Week

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In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Dr. John Noble and Dr. Mark Fera offer your loved ones, family and friends a complete chiropractic consultation and examination at our expense (a $150 value).

If your friends and family are suffering from neck, shoulder or back pain, fear of the unknown may be keeping them from enjoying the benefits of chiropractic care. If you’re a patient at our clinic, you understand what’s involved in chiropractic treatment. You have also experienced the positive change these treatments have had on your health.

Booking an appointment during Sweetheart Appreciation Week is the perfect way to introduce your friends and family to chiropractic care. There’s no fee and no obligation to begin care.

Below are the answers to a few questions your friends and family may have.

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care is a profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. Chiropractic care’s emphasis is on manual treatments, which include spinal adjustments and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation.

Chiropractors are spine, muscle and nervous system experts. They are specifically trained to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend treatment options to relieve pain, restore mobility and prevent reoccurrence without surgery or pharmaceuticals.

What are the benefits?

Your musculoskeletal system supports your weight, provides physical stability, enables you to move your body, and protects your vital organs.

Benefits of chiropractic care include:

  • Improved movement in your neck, shoulders, back and torso
  • Better posture
  • Relief from headaches, neck and back pain
  • Prevention of work-related muscle and joint injuries
  • Enhanced athletic performance
  • Improved flexibility
  • Relief of pregnancy-related backache
  • Correction of gait and foot problems

What can I expect from my chiropractic treatment?

Chiropractic treatments normally consist of manual therapy, including joint manipulation, mobilizations and soft tissue therapy.

  • A manipulation (commonly known as an adjustment) is a quick, small thrust to the spine or other parts of the body intended to provide immediate pain relief and mobility.
  • Mobilizations are slower, more passive movements or stretches that help relieve stiff joints.
  • Soft tissue therapy refers to a variety of different techniques focused on alleviating discomfort without causing movement.

In addition to manual therapies, Ajax chiropractors Dr. John Noble and Dr. Mark Fera are trained to recommend a course of action that includes exercise, ultrasound or laser treatments, rehabilitation, nutritional counselling and injury prevention strategies.

Whether you are suffering from a specific injury to your muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves, or you have a chronic condition such as spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis, Dr. Fera and Dr. Noble can help relieve pain and restore function in the following areas of the body:

  • Head and neck
  • Shoulders
  • Mid-back
  • Low back and pelvis
  • Elbows, wrists and hands
  • Hips, knees, ankles and feet

Are chiropractic treatments safe?

It is important to keep in mind that there is a difference between something being unsafe and having potential reactions. Any therapeutic treatment from medication to manual therapy comes with potential risks.

For example, there is a concept in the pharmaceutical industry known as a risk-benefit analysis which is used to assess how much benefit a medication has compared to the potential risk. The riskier the medication, the less likely it will become mainstream. Spinal manipulations should be recommended for patients when a similar risk-benefit assessment has been conducted. This assessment on the safety of chiropractic treatments is performed via the patient intake form and physical examination.

We have reserved a limited number of appointments during Patient Appreciation Week: February 13th – 18th.

To learn more or book your appointment, contact Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage today at 905-427-3202.

10 Tips for Maintaining Your Good Health in 2023

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women sitting in yoga class

Did you make any New Year’s resolutions at the beginning of the month? As we work our way through the often long and dreary month of January, we thought it would be a good time to review some goals for the year.

Here are our top 10 chiropractor-approved resolutions to help you stay healthy for the rest of the year:

1. Get A Good Night’s Sleep

Sleep is important to overall health. Both body and mind rest and refresh while you sleep. If you have difficulty sleeping, consult your chiropractor for help and solutions. Here are some tips to help you get a good night’s rest.

2. Warm Up

Before jumping in the pool, hitting the field or picking up a golf club, take 20 minutes to warm up. Your warm-up should include deep-breathing exercises, gentle stretching and range of motion exercises to loosen and warm your muscles and joints.

3. Cool Down

Cooling down after a workout is just as important as warming up. Take 20 minutes for a brisk walk or slow jog and stretch out your muscles and joints before heading for the change room or the car.

4. Practice Perfect Posture

Good posture not only makes you look better, but it also delivers increased energy, better breathing, and improved circulation. Good posture is actually an investment in your appearance AND your health. The secret to good posture is maintaining the spine’s natural curves. If your spine is misaligned, it can result in strain and pain.

5. Choose a Good Office Chair

Do you sit most of the day? While sitting seems restful, staying in any one position for too long can cause strain and injury to your muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments.

A good office chair helps a lot. The right chair should:

  • Adjust to suit your size or task
  • Adapt to support your spine in various working positions
  • Have a backrest that supports your lower back
  • Have a front edge that curves downward to promote proper posture

One last tip: Vary your sitting positions throughout the days to prevent injury and strain.

6. Prevent Neck Pain

Your neck is part of your spine, which runs from the base of your skull to the bottom of your back. Neck pain is a common problem with many possible causes. Poor posture, hunching over a computer, arthritis, whiplash, and muscle strain from simple things like reading in bed or grinding your teeth can all trigger neck pain.

Keeping your back safe and strong also protects your neck. Here are some tips to help you prevent neck pain.

7. Manage your Headaches

Tension headaches are common but they are not well understood. Most people describe having a band of pressure around their head that can last from 30 minutes to a week. Tension headaches can be related to muscles tightening in the back of the neck and improper alignment of the joints of the spine.

Record when your headaches occur and what you were doing before they started. Try to recognize the factors that cause or aggravate your headaches. Be sure to tell your chiropractor if you’ve noticed any changes in your usual headaches, such as frequency, duration or intensity, or if your headaches begin to worry you.

8. Prevent Falls

Anyone can fall, but the risk of slips and trips increases as you get older. Every year, one in three Canadians over 65 will fall – often with serious consequences.

Hip, wrist and pelvic fractures are common in this age group and can take a toll on independence and quality of life. Here’s a great list of tips to help you prevent falls.

9. Nourish Yourself

Meal timing is an important factor in maintaining energy levels. Skipping meals can cause blood sugar swings, often resulting in fatigue. People often skip meals and then wonder why they are tired in the afternoon.

To manage energy levels and prevent fatigue, you should eat at least three nutritious meals each day with the last meal well before bedtime.

10. Visit Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage for year-round wellness

Working with a chiropractor and registered massage therapist will help you stay on track with your goals and pamper your spine.

The wellness team at Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage provides patients with more than just chiropractic and massage therapy services, but also the know-how to build better personal wellness habits so you can be at your best for work or play, every day.

To book an appointment or learn more about the chiropractic and therapeutic massage therapy services available at our clinic, call 905-427-3202.

 

With content from the Canadian Chiropractic Association

Why You Should Walk Like a Penguin in Icy Conditions

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group of penguins walking across snow and ice

After a few days of reprieve from ice and snow, winter weather is back in the forecast for Southern Ontario. The upcoming rain-snow mix is likely to cause havoc because once the temperature drops, what starts off as a wet sidewalk or driveway can quickly turn into a sheet of ice.

Whether you’re going outside for some exercise, running an errand, or simply getting to and from your car, winter walking can be hazardous.

“Each year around this time, we start seeing an increasing number of patients who have suffered a fall on the ice,” says Durham Region chiropractor Dr. John Noble. “Our chiropractic and massage therapy team are able to offer guidance and provide care, but ideally it would be best if the fall could be avoided!”

There are some precautions you can take to make sure you get to your destination safely. Here are eight ways to avoid a slip and fall on snow or ice:

1. Choose the right footwear

There are some great options for winter boots that provide slip resistance.

Look for these features: rubber soles with a non-slip tread.

2. Plan ahead

Give yourself extra travel time so you can walk without being rushed.

3. Don’t be distracted

Avoid walking and using your phone at the same time.

4. Be on the lookout for ice

Avoid icy patches when possible. When in doubt, assume that all dark and wet pavement surfaces are slippery.

5. Be prepared

If you don’t have salt for your stairs, driveway, or walkway, use sand or non-clumping cat litter to sprinkle on icy surfaces outdoors. If possible, only walk on paths that receive maintenance. Don’t take shortcuts where snow isn’t regularly removed

6. Use support

Use handrails when available and steady yourself on the door frame of your car when getting in and out of a vehicle.

7. Don’t compromise your balance

Avoid carrying items in your arms as that may cause you to be unbalanced. Walking with your arms swinging at your sides is the best way to maintain balance. Make sure to keep your hands out of your pockets to help with balance and walking posture (don’t forget your gloves).

8. Walk like a penguin

When the terrain is super slippery, try practising these “penguin-like” techniques for stability:

  • Keep your feet “flat-footed” (place your whole foot down at once—this also slows your walking speed)
  • Take short strides or shuffle your feet forward
  • Keep your knees slightly bent and feet pointed out. Lean forward slightly

Make sure to check for weather updates before you head out! If you have experienced a slip or fall, our Pickering massage therapy and chiropractic team can help.

Call the Pickering Village Chiropractic and Massage Clinic for an assessment with Ajax chiropractors Dr. John Noble or Dr. Mark Fera, or to book a therapeutic massage with registered massage therapists Jessica Raedisch or Rolf Castanheiro.

 

 

With content from the Canadian Chiropractic Association

Debunking the Myths Around Back Pain

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Staying active during the winter months can be a challenge. But one thing is for certain. Whether you’re sitting at your desk longer than before or you’re now more active than ever, back pain doesn’t discriminate.

And even though you’re more likely to experience back pain as you age, it’s safe to say that most people will experience back pain at some point in their lives.

Over the years, you may have heard a few theories about what actually causes back pain and what to do when the pain interferes with your daily life. But do you have the right facts?

Here are some common myths surrounding back pain and the truth behind them.

1. This pain is so intense, I should probably head straight to the emergency room.

Evidence shows that most low back pain cases are manageable and do not require an emergency visit.

When should you go to the ER? Go to the emergency room if you are experiencing a loss of sensation in the saddle area or if you have lost bowel or bladder control. Otherwise, your best first step is to find a musculoskeletal expert such as a chiropractor to diagnose and treat the cause of your low back pain. If the cause of your pain is serious enough to warrant the emergency room, these specialists will immediately send you there.

When pain affects your quality of life you want help today, not tomorrow. Call Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage and our staff will do their best to get you assessed quickly. Call us at 905-427-3202 to book an appointment.

2. If I’m in a lot of pain, there must be a lot of damage.

Pain is a sensation that acts as a warning system for your brain. Many things can cause that warning system to go off. A musculoskeletal expert can help you figure out if your pain is related to your joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments or nerves. It’s important to remember that intense pain doesn’t necessarily mean that there is significant damage.

3. All I need is to stretch my back.

Before you stretch, it’s important to get checked out to see if stretching is the right thing to do. Depending on the reason your back is hurting, certain stretches can make things worse. For example, if you have a disc problem, then you may want to avoid stretches that flex the spine and put additional pressure on the discs. A chiropractor can help you get to the root cause and show you which exercises and stretches will help.

4. Applying heat will help relieve my back pain.

Applying heat may make the inflammation of your joint, surrounding muscles and ligaments worse. Ice is the way to go for at least the first three days of short-term (acute) pain.

5. Pain is the main indication that something is wrong.

Your back may be in trouble and you may not feel it. Restricted movement or discomfort in your arms, legs and shoulders are also indications of spinal problems.

6. I need an X-ray, CT or MRI to figure out why I have back pain.

The reality is that most causes of acute low back pain will not show up on an X-ray, CT or MRI. A qualified healthcare provider is trained to know when you should have diagnostic imaging done, and they have a series of other tests they can do to help you get to the bottom of what is going on.

7. Now that my back pain is gone, I can stop doing my exercises.

Once the pain stops, many people stop doing the things that helped them get rid of the pain. It is important to make healthy back care and exercise a part of your regular routine. Otherwise, your back pain is likely to return.

If you’re experiencing back pain, consider visiting the chiropractic and massage therapy team at Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage. We help our patients build better pathways to overall wellness, as well as provide relief from back pain and muscle aches. Contact our clinic today at 905-427-3202.

With content from the Ontario Chiropractic Association

How to Avoid Injury When Shovelling

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No matter where you live in Southern Ontario, snow is pretty much guaranteed. And while that means more chaos on the road for drivers, it also means more homeowners suffering from sore backs as a result of improper snow shovelling.

“Shovelling out after a storm doesn’t have to leave you stiff and sore,” says Ajax chiropractor Dr. John Noble.

In this video shot a few years ago during one of our bigger snowstorms, Dr. Noble offers a few common-sense tips on how to shovel safely.

Unfortunately, just because we’re Canadians doesn’t mean we’re experts when it comes to shovelling snow!

Follow these guidelines from the Ontario Chiropractic Association and with a little know-how, you can clear your driveway without any back, neck and shoulder pain ruining your day.

Before You Head Outside to Shovel

  • Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is just as big an issue in the winter months as it is in the summer.
  • Dress in several layers so you can remove a layer as you get warm.
  • Wear proper footwear. Shoes and boots with solid treads on the soles can help to minimize the risk of slips and falls.
  • Pick the right shovel. Use a lightweight, non-stick, push-style shovel. A smaller blade will require you to lift less snow, putting less strain on your body. An ergonomically correct model (curved handle) will help prevent injury and fatigue. Also, if you spray the blade with a silicone-based lubricant, the snow will slide off more easily.
  • Before beginning any snow removal, warm up for five to 10 minutes to get your joints moving and increase blood circulation. A brisk walk will do it.

Follow These Tips To Avoid Injury While Shovelling

1. Push, Don’t Throw

Push the snow to one side and avoid throwing it. If you must throw it, avoid twisting and turning — position yourself to throw straight at the snow pile.

2. Bend Your Knees

Use your knees, leg and arm muscles to do the pushing and lifting while keeping your back straight.

3. Watch for Ice

Be careful on icy walkways and slippery surfaces. Intermittent thaws and subsequent freezing can lead to ice building up underfoot, resulting in nasty slips and falls. Throw down some salt or sand to ensure you have a good footing.

If you’re experiencing back pain, consider visiting the chiropractic and massage therapy team at Pickering Village Chiropractic & Massage. We help our patients build better pathways to overall wellness, as well as relief from back pain and muscle aches. Contact our clinic today at 905-427-3202.

 

 

With content from the Ontario Chiropractic Association.

Five Tips for Staying Pain-Free Over the Holidays

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family skating

December arrives tomorrow and with it, the season for eating great food, spending quality time with loved ones and sharing cherished traditions. Unfortunately, all of the hustle and bustle can also bring you an unwelcome gift — back pain.

Holiday activities such as shopping, wrapping gifts and skating can cause your muscles to work in ways they’re not usually used and can result in neck, shoulder or back pain.

Try these five tips to reduce your chances of pain and strain:

1. Ergonomic Gift Wrapping
After searching high and low for the perfect gifts, it’s time to wrap them up! Rather than spreading out on the floor, use a dinner table or desk. This will make it easier for you to use good posture. Just remember that sitting in one position for too long can put additional strain on your body. Take frequent breaks and stretch your hands, wrists and forearms by clenching your hands and relaxing.

2. Strain-Free Snowman
Building your very own Frosty the Snowman is top of mind for many children once the snow falls. Roll your snowballs into place and work together as a team to lift them when you’re ready. And remember, rule number one is to lift with your legs, not your back!

3. Lift Light to Shovel Right
When shovelling your driveway, let your legs and arms do the heavy lifting instead of relying on your back, and push the snow to one side to avoid throwing it. If you must throw it, avoid twisting and turning — face your snowbank and throw the snow straight into it.

For more helpful shovelling tips, see this post: Follow These Tips for Avoiding Injury While Shovelling This Winter

4. Stretch, Skate and Snowboard
It’s time to sharpen your skates and grab your snowboards! To prevent injuries that can plague you for months, remember to stretch before and after you hit the slopes or ice.

A basic go-to is the hamstring stretch:

  • Stand tall next to something you can hold on to for support.
  • Prop the back of one heel up on a surface like a stair, curb or bench and pull your toes back towards you.
  • For a deeper stretch, bend forward slightly at the hips.
  • Hold the stretch for 30 seconds on each side.

5. Holiday Shopping
Carrying all those bags may be a productive way to move through your Christmas list, but it’s not great for your back. Consider taking a trip to your car to drop off your bags and lighten the load. If that’s not reasonable, take breaks and set your bags down or use a backpack to help distribute the weight.

Take care of yourself during the cold-weather months.

There are lots of ways to make the short winter days a little brighter. The wellness team at Pickering Village Chiropractic and Massage encourages you to make your physical and mental health a priority.

We provide our patients with more than just chiropractic and massage therapy services, but also the know-how to build better personal wellness habits so you can be at your best for work or play, every day.

To book an appointment or learn more about the chiropractic and therapeutic massage therapy services available at our clinic, call 905-427-3202.

With content from the Ontario Chiropractic Association.