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The Benefits of Shockwave Therapy Treatments

The Benefits of Shockwave Therapy Treatments

Do you suffer from chronic pain or an old injury that interferes with your range of motion and the activities you enjoy? If so, physiotherapy accompanied by shockwave therapy treatments may be ideal for you. Shockwave therapy has been shown in studies to effectively reduce pain, break down old scar tissue and stimulate healing in stubborn injuries and joint pain without the cost or downtime of surgery. Continue reading to learn more about shockwave therapy’s many benefits.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure whereby mechanical pulses of acoustic energy stimulate tissue repair, increase circulation, and help relieve pain where the treatment is applied. Physiotherapists may incorporate shockwave therapy as part of a patient’s injury rehabilitation treatment plan to help provide natural relief for acute or chronic pain and to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. In addition, shockwave therapy can be an excellent treatment for stubborn conditions or old injuries that haven’t responded well to other alternatives.

Conditions That Shockwave Therapy Treats

Shockwave therapy can be beneficial in many different applications but is especially helpful for treating muscle, ligament, tendon, bone and joint-related injuries and pain commonly associated with conditions including but not limited to:

  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Stress fractures
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome)
  • Jumper’s knee (patellar tendonitis)
  • Calcified tendonitis
  • Trigger finger
  • Bursitis of the hip, knee, or shoulder
  • TMJ disorders
  • Shin splints
  • Back pain
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Shoulder/rotator cuff tendinitis
  • Overuse strains and sprains
  • Injuries caused by accidents
  • Chronic muscle tension and pain

What to Expect From Shockwave Therapy Treatments

After assessing your condition and devising a treatment plan, your physiotherapist will start your treatment by applying a cool conductive gel (similar to ultrasound jelly) to the area being treated so that the handpiece used to deliver the acoustic energy pulses can easily be maneuvered. Treatments usually take around 15 minutes and are typically carried out a week apart.

What does it feel like?

Topical numbing agents, painkillers and anti-inflammatories are not required during shockwave therapy and are discouraged because they can interfere with shockwave therapy’s inflammatory response, which initiates tissue regeneration and healing. Shockwave therapy treatments typically feel like dull pulsing sensations in the tissues being treated. Treatment discomfort depends on the intensity of the treatment and the tenderness of the area being treated but is usually tolerable, and your physiotherapist can adjust the intensity to ensure your comfort. You may feel slight tingly sensations, warmth or tenderness in the treated area for up to a few days following treatment while the tissue’s healing response occurs.

Is there any downtime?

The beauty of undergoing non-invasive shockwave therapy treatments is how you can resume light activity following your treatments. Your physiotherapist will, however, ask you to avoid any rigorous or strenuous activity for two or more days following treatment, depending on your condition. You may also experience slight swelling or tenderness in the area treated for a few days following your procedure. Inflammation following your shockwave treatments is normal and indicative of the healing process taking place.

How many treatments will I need to see results?

Some patients notice pain reduction following their first treatment, with improved healing and pain relief as treatments progress. Shockwave treatment plans typically consist of 3 to 6 sessions spaced one or more weeks apart. Your physiotherapist will tailor a treatment plan ideal for your specific condition and requirements.

Find Out Whether Shockwave Therapy Is Right for You!

Don’t ignore pain. Start the healing process today by booking your appointment with one of our expert physiotherapists. Call Diversified Health Clinic at (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online.

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Piriformis Syndrome: A Real Pain in the Butt

Piriformis Syndrome: A Real Pain in the Butt

Are you noticing a dull ache or shooting pain in your glutes after standing, sitting, cycling, training or running? If so, piriformis syndrome may be to blame. Continue reading to learn more about piriformis syndrome, including what makes it a potential cause of sciatica and what you can do to treat it and relieve the pain. 

What is Piriformis Syndrome and What Causes It?

The piriformis muscle anatomy as it relates to piriformis syndrome.

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that, as the title of this article implies, causes pain in the buttocks. Piriformis syndrome is a term used to describe a condition affecting the piriformis muscle located deep within the middle posterior gluteal region (behind the gluteus maximus). The piriformis muscle is one (and arguably the most important) of the six lateral hip rotators. It is responsible for externally rotating your hip and upper thigh, abducting your hip when flexed, and stabilizing your sacroiliac joint. 

What causes it?

Piriformis syndrome is caused when the piriformis muscle spasms, compressing and irritating surrounding nerves and soft tissues (often including the sciatic nerve), resulting in pain, tingling and/or numbness in the buttock area, which can sometimes also be felt down the back of the upper and lower leg and foot. While the root cause of piriformis syndrome is not yet well understood, the sciatic nerve’s involvement may be due to anatomical anomalies and variations between each individual or, more commonly, due to soft tissue inflammation or muscle spasms/contractions that compress the sciatic nerve as a result of piriformis muscle tightness from muscle or postural imbalances.

A common cause of sciatica pain

The sciatic nerve’s proximity to the piriformis muscle makes it susceptible to compression and irritation caused by the muscle spasms related to piriformis syndrome. Therefore, when lumbar issues such as disk herniation are ruled out as a cause for sciatica pain, and buttock pain isn’t accompanied by lower back pain, piriformis syndrome is most likely the cause. 

Piriformis Syndrome Symptoms

The most common symptom of piriformis syndrome is a deep, dull ache, burning, shooting pain, and tingling and numbness that can be felt in the buttock (typically on one side of the body). The pain may also be felt down the back of the thigh, calf and foot and may be accompanied by a reduced range of motion in the hip flexors. 

Piriformis syndrome pain is typically most noticeable:

  • When walking uphill or taking the stairs
  • After sitting, driving, standing or cycling for extended periods
  • Following activities such as walking, long-distance running or strength training
  • After a traumatic injury, including collisions and falls
  • When flexing or rotating the hip and thigh inwards and outwards

The Good News

Surgical correction or steroid injections may be required in rare cases of piriformis syndrome (caused by anatomical anomalies or trauma). However, the good news is that most cases of piriformis syndrome can be successfully treated with the following interventions and rest:

Proper assessment and diagnoses 

After ruling out sciatic pain caused by spinal issues, your physiotherapist or health practitioner will use a series of movements to indicate whether or not the piriformis muscle is causing sciatic nerve compression and pain.

Tailored treatment

Treating piriformis syndrome typically requires physiotherapy to help stretch the piriformis muscle and improve hip mobility, posture and muscular conditioning. 

At-home maintenance and prevention

Following the stretches and exercises your physiotherapist gives you can help prevent the recurrence of pain caused by piriformis muscle tightness, spasms and nerve compression.

Treating Piriformis Syndrome and Sciatica Pain in Victoria, BC

Don’t ignore pain. Start the healing process today by booking your appointment with one of our expert physiotherapists. Call Diversified Health Clinic today at (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online.

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Fact or Fiction? Is Joint Pain Worse in Cold Weather?

Fact or Fiction? Is Joint Pain Worse in Cold Weather?

Do you notice increased joint pain or aches from past injuries in cold climates? If so, you’re not alone. A phenomenon occurs this time of year when Vancouver Island’s warm summer climate is replaced by a cooler and wetter fall and winter. The 2,400-year-old phenomenon I’m referring to is a sudden increase in people being bothered by joint pain. Is it a seasonal coincidence, or is there a correlation between colder, wetter weather and worsening aches and pains? 

Does Weather Affect Joint Pain?

The short answer is that it’s possible that a sudden or prolonged drop in barometric pressure negatively affects arthritis and joint pain, but at this point, the correlation has yet to be proven. While the jury is out on what exactly causes the notable increase in winter aches and pains, a couple of theories are worth considering as follows:

Blame it on the rain (and barometric pressure):

If you notice sudden or worsening pain or swelling on rainy days, this theory may explain why. Drops in barometric pressure, typical during periods of rain, can cause your muscles, tendons, interstitial fluids and tissues to expand slightly, affecting how much pressure is placed on surrounding nerves. The degree of swelling and pain may depend on contributing factors such as arthritis, edema and past or present injuries.

Drops in activity:

While many islanders are active year-round, it’s natural for some of us to stay inside and reduce our overall physical activity and energy output when it’s cold, wet and generally “blah” outside. Just as too much activity can leave muscles sore, too little activity — especially when your body has become accustomed to being active — can increase the sensation of joint pain and general achiness. Drops in activity coupled with a colder climate can decrease circulation and increase muscle tension and fluid retention around joints, causing muscles and tendons to feel more stiff and sore than usual. 

Simple Ways to Reduce Winter Aches and Joint Pain

Warm Up:

When fall and winter chills aggravate aches and pains, the easiest thing to do is warm up at home with a heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm bath. Take essential precautions when using an electrical heating pad, hot water bottle, microwaveable bean bag or any other compresses: 

  • First, the temperature you apply should be comfortably warm and not hot – heat builds up on your skin the longer a warm compress is applied;
  • Always use a towel or cloth between the heat source and your skin to prevent burns;
  • Never fall asleep while using a heating pad or hot compress (opt for electrical heating pads with built-in timers) or use a warm beanbag or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel;
  • Never apply heat if wounds are present or infection is suspected;
  • Apply heat in 10-20 minute intervals or shorter;
  • Pay attention to how you feel — the heat you apply should never feel hot, and if the pain or swelling increases instead of improving, stop and consult with a physician or trusted health practitioner immediately.

Get and Stay Active:

You may not feel like being active during darker, wetter and colder seasons, but consider that staying active not only helps mitigate aches and pains while keeping you fit year-round, but regular exercise can also help banish the winter blues. Be sure to take a few minutes at the end of your activities to stretch your muscles — paying extra attention to the areas that tend to bother you most. One important word of caution, consult with a health practitioner before starting a new workout routine or increasing your activity — especially if you have preexisting health conditions or old injuries. 

Get Help and Relief From Massage Therapy and Physiotherapy:

When joint pain, old injuries, and muscle tension persist or interfere with the activities you love and your overall well-being, a professional massage therapist or physiotherapist can help. Massage therapy and physiotherapy can help improve circulation, mobility and strength where it’s needed most while helping prevent re-injury and soreness from unaddressed muscle imbalances and suboptimal movement patterns. Booking an appointment and consultation with a massage therapist or physiotherapist is a great place to start, and they will likely give you pain-reducing tips and exercises you can perform between sessions at home.

If Your Pain Persists or You’re Unsure Where to Start

Give our team of practitioners a call at Diversified Health Clinic today at (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online. If you’re unsure who to book your appointment with, ask us when you call. Our diversified approach and initial consultation process ensure you’ll be placed in the best care possible, with a practitioner and plan tailored to your specific situation and needs.

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Foot Pain? Your Flip-Flops May Be the Culprit!

Foot Pain? Your Flip-Flops May Be the Culprit!

Ah, summertime splendour. Nearly everyone’s favourite time of year in Victoria is met by longer days, lighter clothing and more casual footwear — namely, the all-too-common flip-flops. Unfortunately, while flip-flops may seem like a comfortable choice at first step, they can cause foot pain and exacerbate the following conditions. So, if you’re noticing aches and pains this time of year, and if flip-flops are part of your summertime routine, here’s what you need to know.

Why Flip-Flops Cause Foot Pain and ProblemsFoot Pain Caused By Poor-Fitting Foorwear

Flip-flops lack support: and even if you don’t realize it, wearing flip-flops creates tension in the muscles of your feet and toes as the foot grips the flip-flop to prevent it from sliding off when walking. 

Absent elevation: In addition, the lack of a slight heel elevation can cause excessive strain on your foot, calf muscles, and Achilles tendon. While, depending on your feet, not everyone requires a lot of support in their footwear, flip-flops’ complete lack of arch support and cushioning means your whole body absorbs the shock each time your feet strike the ground. 

Standing and walking for long periods in flip-flops can cause or exacerbate underlying foot and postural conditions and cause pain that can interfere with your usual activities. 

The Most Common Conditions Exacerbated by Flip-Flop Wearing

Plantar Fasciitis: Quite possibly the most common condition triggered by prolonged flip flop wearing, plantar fasciitis pain is often described as a burning or stabbing pain that’s felt in the heel or midsole of your foot. Plantar fasciitis pain results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, which can be caused by footwear lacking adequate arch support.

Flexor and Extensor Tendonitis: When you walk in flip-flops, your feet tense the muscles of your toes to stabilize the sole of the flip-flop. In addition, it’s also common to push off the ground from your big toe when walking in flip-flops. Over time, this can lead to strain and inflammation of the tendons responsible for flexing and extending your toes. The first signs and symptoms of flexor tendonitis and extensor tendonitis include pain along the top of the foot, under the big toe, or under your inner ankle when you walk, run, bend or straighten your toes. 

Bunion Pain: If you have bunions, you know they can make a lot of different footwear off limits. And while flip flops appear as though they’d offer a reprieve from bunion pain caused by friction from narrow and enclosed footwear, the lack of cushioning under the big toe joint and ball of your foot can lead to inflammation, redness and pain. 

Achilles Tendonitis Pain: Achilles tendonitis is caused when the tendon that runs between the back of your ankle and heel becomes strained, which can be triggered by wearing flat footwear without a slight heel elevation.

Knee, Hip or Lower Back Pain: Footwear that lacks adequate cushioning and support places unnecessary strain and impact on your ligaments and joints, which can cause inflammation and pain most commonly felt in the knees, hips and lower back. 

Gait Issues, Postural Issues and Muscle Imbalances: Gait issues are prevalent and often go unnoticed until body aches and pains (or a sports injury) bring someone in for an assessment. Unaddressed gait issues can lead to muscle imbalances such as glute tightness that can cause an uneven tilt to the pelvis resulting in lower back and hip pain, nerve pain and joint issues. In addition, flat footwear such as flip-flops can interfere with the natural biomechanics of your feet, which, when unimpeded, help protect the body by absorbing shock, ensuring balance and maintaining body alignment.

Perhaps You Could Use a Little Support

Proper body alignment starts from the ground up: and sometimes something as minor as adjusting heel elevation and providing adequate arch support can make a big difference in helping to improve posture, relieve pain and correct movement patterns. 

You don’t necessarily have to ditch your flip-flops altogether: reserve them for beach or short strolls in the yard. Even your most expensive running shoes or workboots may need a little tweaking to best support your feet and prevent foot pain and other complications. 

Custom orthotics that are tailored to your specific needs following a thorough GAIT analysis: can be easily inserted into different types of footwear. Adding orthotics to your everyday shoes and boots can help alleviate foot pain and correct gait issues by giving your feet the right amount of support where it’s needed. Custom orthotics can make a big difference in relieving foot pain and body aches caused by gait issues and suboptimal body alignment, resulting in more comfortable days on your feet.

If Foot Pain Persists

How Orthotics are Made

It never hurts to have things checked out by a health professional, and addressing the cause of foot pain early can prevent further injury and result in better overall outcomes.

At Diversified Health Clinic, we use state-of-the-art GaitScan technology to accurately assess foot function and identify any imbalances, biomechanical issues and causes of pain. If faulty foot mechanics are found to be the cause of your pain, our practitioners can fit you with custom orthotic inserts that are specifically tailored for your feet. You can learn more about our comprehensive process here.

Take The Next Step Towards Happy, Healthy Feet

If foot pain, body aches or gait issues are slowing you down, our practitioners at Diversified Health can help. Take the first step on your road to recovery by booking an appointment with one of our practitioners today.

Call (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online. We offer direct billing and weekday and weekend appointments. Please view our hours of operation and location details here.

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Is Your Lower Back and Hip Pain Caused By SI Joint Dysfunction?

Experiencing lower back and hip pain is quite common and can affect anyone at any age. Sometimes back pain can be easily mistaken for hip pain and discomfort because the joint of your hip is located near your spine. Injuries can resemble or be the cause of your back pain. Some other symptoms you may experience in addition to hip and low back pain are:

  • Groin pain
  • Pain while moving/walking
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Stiffness

Common causes of lower back and hip pain include:Lower Back and Hip Pain Causes

  1. Pinched nerve: is an uncomfortable condition that can cause shooting pain, tingling and discomfort. It occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding bones, muscles, and tissues. This pressure interrupts proper nerve function, pain, numbness, and weakness. 
  2. Muscle strain: caused by stretching and possibly tearing of your tendons and muscles. The immediate reaction is a pain in your back; however, you may also experience dull aches or discomfort in your hip. 
  3. Herniated disc: also referred to as a ruptured or slipped disc, occurs when the “jelly” inside your spinal disc is pushed through the harder exterior of the disc causing the nearby nerves to become irritated, often causing pain and numbness.
  4. Arthritis: is the inflammation of one or more of your joints, often a result of aging. Some common symptoms are pain, swelling, stiffness, decreased range of motion and numbness. 
  5. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction: also referred to as the SI joint, which connects your hip bone to your sacrum (the triangular bone between the lumbar spine and tailbone). The SI Joint is meant to absorb shock between your upper body, pelvis, and legs. Strain or injury to this joint can cause radiating pain in your back, hip, and groin area. 

The primary mechanisms of SI joint dysfunction are:SI Joint Dysfunction

  • Too little movement (hypomobility): can cause pain, muscle tension and may inhibit your mobility. Pain is typically felt on one side of the low back and can radiate down the back of the legs (similar to sciatic pain).
  • Too much movement (hypermobility): can cause the pelvis to feel unstable and may lead to pain. Pain is usually felt in lower back/hip and may radiate into the groin area.

Treatment for SI Joint Dysfunction

  • Spinal manipulation (adjustment)

Adjustments involve a thrust that can result in an audible release, called cavitation, which is created by a change in pressure in the joint. Although, it is not necessary for the adjustment to be effective. 

Some patients do not want this spinal manipulation and may prefer a more gentle approach which could involve:Lower Back and Hip Pain Treatment

  1. Flexion-distraction technique: is a specialized table is used that gently stretches or distracts the spine.
  2. Activator or Neuromechanical instrument: is a spring-loaded instrument that specifically targets locations along the spine with low-force impulses.
  3. “Drop” approach: involves the use of a special chiro table where sections of the table can be raised or dropped simultaneously with gentle thrusts. This allows gravity to help with the adjustments. 

In addition to adjustments, treatments may also include mobilizations, soft tissue therapy, and rehab exercises. Your chiropractor may also recommend getting a biomechanical assessment of your feet and gait scan to see if a pair of customized orthotics would be beneficial for the SI joint dysfunction.  

For Relief From Lower Back and Hip Pain in Victoria, BC

Contact the clinic for more information on low back/hip pain-related treatments or to book with our Chiropractors Dr. Krisjan Gustavson or Dr. Caitlin Sellan. Please contact us at 250-382-0018 or online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

#chiropractor #victoriaBC #SIjointpain #hippain #lowbackpain #adjustment #healthclinic #sciaticapain

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What Causes Vertigo?

What Causes Vertigo?

“What Causes Vertigo?” It’s a question we receive a lot at our clinic. The dizzy, spinny and falling symptoms can feel nauseating and interfere with your sleep and daily activities. The good news is that benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV (the most common type), can be easily assessed and treated, resulting in immediate and lasting relief. 

First, What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo is the term used to describe the sensation of moving or spinning when you are stationary. Vertigo is the symptom of an inner ear condition that results when tiny calcium carbonate crystals (canaliths) located in the utricle portion of your inner ear (that help control balance) shift out of place, causing the sensation of dizziness or motion. 

Vertigo symptoms can range from slight to severe and be fleeting, quickly resolving withoutWhat Causes Vertigo intervention, or more persistent, requiring help from a health practitioner. Vertigo symptoms can also be intermittent, with many people experiencing what they refer to as “vertigo attacks” that come and go following activity or illness. 

There are two primary types of vertigo as follows, and while they share things in common, each may have different causative factors and require different treatment approaches. 

Central Vertigo

Central vertigo is caused by an underlying condition such as Meniere’s disease, infection, or brain injury that affects the central vestibular structures (brainstem cerebellum, vestibular apparatus). 

Central vertigo typically presents as more pronounced and prolonged or as recurrent vertigo attacks that can last for several hours and are accompanied by other symptoms, including migraine headaches, nausea, tinnitus, hearing loss and the sensation of one or both ears feeling blocked. Central vertigo can also be so severe that suffers cannot walk or balance themselves. Treatment depends on causative factors. 

Peripheral Vertigo

Otherwise known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), peripheral vertigo is the most common type, accounting for over 90% of all causes of vertigo. Peripheral vertigo occurs when activities and head movement disrupt the crystals of the inner ear (the peripheral vestibular system). 

Peripheral vertigo symptoms can be slight or severe and last only a few seconds, a few days, several weeks, or be recurrent. Recurrent and prolonged episodes of vertigo can be triggered by several factors, some of which are similar to central vertigo. However, peripheral vertigo is when the cause of vertigo is isolated to disruption of the inner ear instead of being related to another underlying condition or head injury. 

When Vertigo Requires Emergency Attention

Vertigo symptoms accompanied by fever, pain, confusion, slurred speech, vision changes, or stupor require immediate medical attention to rule out potentially serious conditions.

What Causes Vertigo? Common Triggers

Sudden, recurrent and prolonged episodes of peripheral vertigo can be triggered by a number of factors, some of which are similar to central vertigo. The most common vertigo triggers include:

  • Shifts in head movement that can be as simple as rolling over in bed or tilting your head back and forward (head banging movements at rock concerts is one extreme example of head movements that can trigger a vertigo episode)
  • Following exposure to irregular movements, including being on a boat in rilling waves or following a ride at the fair
  • Head movements during leisure and athletic activities
  • A sudden blow to the head or a sudden shift in head movement due to impact
  • Head and neck injuries
  • Direct injury or infection of the vestibular system of the inner ear
  • Certain medications
  • Migraines
  • Age and hereditary factors
  • Fluctuation hormones, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy
  • Viral ear infections
  • Metabolic changes or nutrient deficiencies, including a lack of Vitamin D and calcium
  • (Aural vertigo) Cold water entering the ears when swimming or diving
  • (Alternobaric vertigo) Imbalanced ear pressure when ascending or descending while scuba diving
  • Allergies 
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Anxiety
  • Neurological disorders
  • Viral infections
  • Vestibular dysfunction
  • Vascular conditions
  • Multiple Sclerosis

What Causes Vertigo to Go Away on Its Own?

For some people, vertigo episodes that are slight and fleeting often disappear as quickly as they appear and resolve without medical treatment. Vertigo that resolves on its own can be a bout of motion sickness or a movement that causes the previously disrupted crystals of the inner ear to shift back into place. 

When Vertigo Doesn’t Resolve on Its Own

When vertigo symptoms become more bothersome, severe, recurrent or lingers, treatment is sought and sometimes necessary to relieve vertigo symptoms and prevent them from interfering with daily life and leisure. Treatment often involves specific head positioning maneuvers and exercises that help the calcium carbonate crystals of the inner ear to readjust and move back to their proper position. 

What to Do When Vertigo Symptoms Arise

While vertigo may not be entirely preventable, there are things you can do to manage the severity of vertigo symptoms when they occur. 

  • Immediately sit or lay down when you feel dizzy.
  • Sleep and nap with head slightly elevated.
  • Avoid stretching your neck when reaching for something.
  • Avoid tilting your head forward when bending over to pick things up — keep your head aligned as you squat to pick items up instead.
  • Move your head slowly during activity.
  • When getting up from laying down, rise slowly and stabilize yourself with something if you feel dizzy.
  • Always use handrails when taking stairs and escalators.
  • Utilize calming breathing techniques to avoid anxiousness.
  • Make an appointment with your GP if severe symptoms are accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, vision changes, confusion or fever.
  • Seek vertigo treatment with a local health practitioner such as our physiotherapist Jennifer Mildon and our chiropractor Doctor Caitlan Sellan at Diversified Health Clinic, located in downtown Victoria.

Effective Treatments for Relieving Vertigo in Victoria, B.C.

When vertigo symptoms strike, treatment can help. At Diversified Health Clinic, one our Physiotherapists, Jennifer Mildon, and one of our Chiropractors, Dr. Cailtan Sellan, both have a special interest and training in vestibular rehabilitation and vertigo treatments. You’ll be happy to know that benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is easy to assess and treat, often with only a few vestibular rehab sessions that can be performed whether or not you’re immediately experiencing vertigo symptoms. 

What to Expect from Vestibular Rehab Treatments

Your first session will include a thorough assessment followed by a series of manual repositioning techniques that help the crystals of your inner ear settle into their proper position. You’ll also be given personalized vestibular exercises you can perform at home between treatments to improve your balance and decrease vertigo symptoms when they occur.

Book Your Vertigo Assessment and Treatment Today

To arrange for an assessment and vertigo treatment, please call our clinic at (250) 382-0018 and request a vestibular session with Jennifer Mildon or Dr. Caitlan Sellan. You can also book online here. 

If you have questions about whether our vestibular rehab treatments are right for you, contact our clinic to request a free, no-obligation, 5-minute consultation. 

Important

On the day of your treatment, we kindly ask that you arrange travel plans so that you will not have to drive home after your session, and you are welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment. 

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Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Is for Everyone, That’s Right, Everyone!

Pelvic Floor Muscles Physiotherapy is for Everyone

The Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM) are a group of superficial and deep muscles in our pelvis that we have direct control over. These muscles form the base of our core to stabilize our spine and pelvis and support the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, bowel, and uterus. They control the passage of urine and feces and are essential for both men and women’s sexual arousal and satisfaction. 

Why Are Pelvic Floor Muscles So Important?

Pelvic floor muscles are important for several reasons, and changes in their function and strength can contribute to various issues, including:

Physiotherapy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

  • Urinary and/or fecal incontinence (1 in 3 women and 1 in 9 men suffer from incontinence)
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Pelvic and low back pain
  • Prostate conditions
  • Pain with intercourse
  • Difficulty with sexual arousal and orgasm

Many pelvic floor conditions are a result of the pelvic floor muscles being too weak, too tight, or uncoordinated and may be exacerbated by:

Heavy lifting: Incorrect lifting patterns may contribute to incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse

Obesity: Higher risk of strain on the pelvic floor muscles 

Chronic coughing: May weaken the pelvic floor muscles over time due to repetitive strain

Ageing: Hormonal changes may affect the integrity of pelvic floor musculature

Pregnancy and childbirth: Physiological changes occur in the pelvis to carry and birth a baby

Constipation: Straining to have a bowel movement can weaken the pelvic floor over time

How Can Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Help?

Pelvic floor muscles are skeletal muscles, meaning you can voluntarily control and train them by repeating correct exercises. By visiting a pelvic floor physiotherapist, you can learn how to identify, activate, strengthen, or relax the right muscles. In addition, you can improve your symptoms by learning to coordinate your pelvic floor, diaphragm, and abdominal muscles and then apply what you’ve learned to functional activities and exercises.

Pelvic floor conditions can arise from various systems in the body, including the musculoskeletal structures, nervous system, and visceral (organs) structures. Your pelvic floor physiotherapist will take a holistic approach to assess all areas that may be contributing to your symptoms, including:

  • Pelvic floor
  • Hips
  • Lumbar spine
  • Abdominal region (core)
  • Central nervous system
  • Sacro-iliac joints
  • Pubic symphysis

What Can I Expect during Appointments?

What Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy? 

During the initial assessment, our pelvic floor physiotherapist, Jennifer Mildon, will get a detailed history and understanding of what your symptoms are and how they are affecting you. Then, she will do an external exam which commonly includes assessing your posture, strength, and mobility in your hips, pelvis, and low back. If you are comfortable, she would also do an internal vaginal and/or rectal exam, which would provide useful information about your pelvic floor muscles. However, if you are not comfortable with an internal exam or are experiencing acute pain, Jennifer can complete the assessment without it. 

While there may be some discomfort with the treatment or assessment, it should not be painful and should not aggravate your symptoms. Based on the assessment findings and your goals, Jennifer will create an individualized treatment plan to address your symptoms and help you achieve your goals.

Subsequent visits will focus on the treatment of your symptoms and may consist of:

  • Education
  • Exercises
  • Lifestyle modification strategies 
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Pelvic floor muscle retraining
  • Core strengthening
  • Bladder or bowel training
  • Manual therapy
  • Functional dry needling

Meet Jennifer Mildon, Diversified Health Clinic’s Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist

JENNIFER MILDON MPT PhysiotherapistJennifer completed her Master’s of Physical Therapy at UBC in Vancouver. Before moving to the west coast to pursue her physiotherapy career, she completed her Bachelor of Science at Dalhousie University in her home province of Nova Scotia.

Jennifer believes that providing the best client-centred care often requires collaboration with a team of health care professionals from diverse disciplines. She is dedicated to delivering a physiotherapy service that focuses on improving and maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, to enable her clients to enjoy life in the ways that are most meaningful to them. Jennifer employs an evidence-based treatment approach that blends manual therapy, dry needling, functional exercise programs, and client education to optimize health outcomes while achieving client goals.

Jennifer is committed to staying current on physiotherapy-related research. Jennifer has completed training with Pelvic Health Solutions to be able to provide caesarean and vaginal birth rehabilitation, as well as treatments for incontinence and pelvic pain. She is certified to provide Functional Dry Needling and has also completed training in concussion management and vestibular rehabilitation. 

Jennifer has a strong passion for sport and recreation and has always spent her free time being active and exploring the outdoors. When not in the clinic, Jennifer enjoys maintaining a healthy lifestyle through yoga, swimming, biking, hiking in the backcountry, and sailing around the Gulf Islands.

Learn More about Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy or Book a Treatment

Contact Diversified Health Clinic for more information on Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy or to book with Jennifer Mildon. Please call us at 250-382-0018 or book online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

#pelvicfloorphysiotherapy #physiotherapy #victoriabc #womenshealth #menshealth #pelvicpain #incontinence #prenatal #postnatal #childbirth #prostate #organprolapse

 

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Are You Suffering from TMJ Disorder?

Are you experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or a clicking or popping sensation when you chew? You may be suffering from TMJ Disorder. This article outlines what TMJ disorder is, what causes it, common symptoms, and TMJ disorder treatments available in Victoria, BC.  

What Is TMJ Disorder and What Causes It?

TMJ Disorder (otherwise known as temporomandibular joint disorder) describes one or more conditions affecting the joints and surrounding tissues of the lower jaw. Your temporomandibular joints (located on each side of your jaw, in front of your ears) connects your lower jaw (mandible) with your upper jaw (maxilla) by a hinge-like joint and supporting muscles and ligaments that facilitate the opening and closing and sideways motion of your jaw. 

Temporomandibular disorders can occur as a result of prolonged tension (such as teeth clenching and grinding), a genetic predisposition, underlying conditions affecting the connective tissue and joints (including arthritis), and general wear and tear, incorrect bite alignment or direct trauma. In some cases, the cause of a person’s TMJ disorder remains unknown but is almost always treatable.

Common Signs & Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

People experiencing TMJ disorder typically experience one or more of the following symptoms.

  • Persistent or recurring pain or tenderness on one or both sides of the jaw
  • Pain or discomfort when opening and closing mouth or chewing
  • Aching pain in or around the ears
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Difficulty fully opening and closing the mouth or chewing
  • Pain, fatigue, or muscle spasms in the face, neck, and sometimes shoulders
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sensation when opening and closing mouth or chewing (often accompanied by pain, discomfort, tension, or limited movement).
  • Swelling on one or both sides of cheeks or jaw
  • Dizziness and fatigue
  • Increased frequency of headaches
  • Aching back teeth
  • Changes in bite alignment
  • Facial tension and tenderness
  • Locking of your jaw that interferes with your ability to open or close your mouth

It’s worth noting that many people suffer TMJ disorder symptoms without realizing a temporomandibular condition is the cause. Headaches and tinnitus are two examples of symptoms that can fly under the proverbial radar for years before a TMJ disorder is diagnosed. 

Have You Been Experiencing One or More of the Symptoms Outlined Above?  

Suppose you suspect you may be suffering from a TMJ condition. In that case, it’s a good idea to inquire with a health practitioner like our physiotherapists at Diversified Health Clinic before your condition worsens. TMJ disorders are very common, and treatment is often successful! 

Things You Can Do to Mitigate TMJ Issues

While some causes and contributing factors are hard to avoid entirely, there are things you can do to prevent undue wear, tear and strain on your temporomandibular joints.

  • Practice good posture and avoid clenching or forward jutting of the lower jaw (which can occur when straining during periods of stress or strain during exercise)
  • Avoid biting down on large pieces of hard foods (such as jawbreakers)
  • Wear a night guard or retainer during sleep if you are prone to nocturnal teeth grinding
  • Stress and tension management, including mindful relaxation techniques of the face and neck muscles and therapeutic massage 
  • Alternate between a cold compress and moist heat for up to 10 minutes at a time following activity or when your face and jaw muscles feel tense
  • Address or rule out suboptimal bite alignment with your dental provider
  • Have your TMJ concerns checked out by a professional health practitioner at the onset of symptoms
  • Specialized TMJ treatments that incorporate physiotherapy with intramuscular stimulation (IMS), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TMS), ultrasound, therapeutic massage and/or Class VI K-Laser Therapy as needed

TMJ Disorder Treatment

Jaw pain is no fun and can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. When in doubt, have a health practitioner, such as our physiotherapists at Diversified Health, assess and treat the source of your pain and alleviate the discomfort you’re experiencing. Click here to learn more about our clinic’s diversified approach to effectively treating TMJ disorder.

If You Suffer From the Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:

Give our team of practitioners a call at Diversified Health Clinic today at (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online. We’re happy to help answer your questions, address the cause of your pain and discomfort and get you on the road to recovery.

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Don’t Let Running-Related Pain and Injury Stop You 

Don’t Let Running-Related Pain and Injury Stop You 

It’s running season again, with several running events happening in Victoria between May and October. Significant upcoming running events like the Oak Bay Half-Marathon and the Victoria Goddess Run have many running enthusiasts ramping up their conditioning and noticing running-related pain as a result.

Addressing Pain and Preventing Injury Will Take You Far

While most running-related pain can be alleviated with rest, it’s never a good idea to ignore pain, especially if it persists and interferes with the activities you love. Addressing suspicious pain early on can prevent more serious damage and permanent injury. 

A Few of the Most Common Causes of Running-Related Pain and Injuries

Runners Knee: (otherwise known as patellofemoral pain syndrome) is an umbrella term used to describe one or more causes of knee pain. One of the leading causes of runner’s knee occurs when the cartilage of the kneecap is compromised, resulting in an aching pain that’s often accompanied by stiffness and a popping or grinding feeling when the knee is bent. Runner’s knee can also be caused by strained tendons from overuse or direct trauma due to a hit or bad fall. In addition, gait issues and muscle imbalances are contributing and aggravating factors. 

IT Band Syndrome: (which is often associated with runner’s knee), is experienced as a sharp, burning, clicking, or aching pain on the outside of the knee. IT Band Syndrome is caused by inflammation and irritation of the iliotibial band that runs down the outer part of your thigh, connecting your pelvis to your knee. Gait issues, muscle imbalances, overuse, and running downhill or on irregular surfaces are all contributing factors.

Shin Splints: describes that hard to mistake aching and burning pain at the front of your lower leg, which is caused by repetitive strain of the tibia and its connecting tendons. Contributing factors include gait issues that affect ankle alignment, weight, and running downhill or on irregular surfaces.

Nerve Pain with Sciatica: often experienced as a sharp pinching or shooting pain in the lower back and upper glutes that can radiate down the back of the thigh. Sciatica pain occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed, pinched or compressed due to a herniated spinal disc or tight lower back or glute muscles.

Plantar Fasciitis: a common running injury that results in burning or stabbing pain in the heel or midsole of the foot due to inflammation of the plantar fascia that runs from your toes to your heel bone.

Stress Fractures: a common cause of running-related pain and injury. Stress fractures from running occur when muscles become strained and cannot sufficiently absorb the impact of a runner’s feet striking the ground, resulting in small cracks in a bone. Symptoms include sharp pain and swelling that worsens during activity and often persists at rest. The contributing factors are running on hard surfaces, unresolved gait issues, poor footwear, and muscle overuse. In runners, the bones of the shins, ankles, and feet are most commonly affected.

Achilles Tendonitis: experienced as pain, tension, and stiffness of the back of the ankle and heel caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon due to tight calf muscles, bone spurs, and overuse. Achilles tendonitis typically occurs when running distance and intensity increase.

Muscle Strains and Sprains: includes muscle tears and pulls that cause pain that persists despite rest, which can be accompanied by swelling, bruising, redness, weakness, and obstructed mobility of the affected muscles. Hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and groin are the most common muscles affected by tears and pulls from running. 

Sore Hips: burning or aching pain and stiffness of the hip joints and surrounding area is often caused by muscle tension, overuse, muscle imbalances, and unresolved gait issues. In some cases, hip pain may be caused by stress fractures or cartilage tears.

Bursitis: caused by inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that protect the joints. Bursitis pain typically manifests as intermittent (flare-ups) of sharp, shooting, or aching pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness of the affected joints and is often a result of overuse injury.

There Are Several Things You Can Do Now to Prevent Running-Related Pain and Injury While Training

  • Take time to warm up, hydrate, and stretch before more strenuous activity.
  • Adequate rest
  • Proper footwear
  • Vary running surfaces (running on turf or softer trails versus road running to reduce shock on your joints).
  • Addressing possible gait issues, pain, past injuries, and muscle imbalances.
  • R.I.C.E.

How to R.I.C.E. Away Running-Related Pain

At the first indication of pain and swelling, follow the RICE method to help alleviate pain, swelling, and further injury:

Rest: Immediately stop the activity to prevent further damage.

Ice: If swelling is present, apply a cold pack in 10-20 minute increments (wrap cold pack in a towel to avoid causing ice burns to skin).

Compression: Painful joints can be carefully wrapped in a compression bandage to help with pain and swelling. Ensure you don’t wrap the area too tightly! Numbness, coldness, a change in colour, or swelling in the area below the wrap indicates your bandage is too tight, negatively affecting circulation. Compression should not be used over broken skin, while sleeping, or by people with diabetes or compromised arterial circulation without direction from a physician or health practitioner.  

Elevation: To help reduce swelling, use pillows to elevate the affected limb above the level of your heart. 

If Pain Persists

It never hurts to have things checked out by a health professional. Consider that catching concerns early and the right course of treatment can alleviate pain, prevent further injury, and improve your performance.

Treating running-related pain and injuries may include a combination of

  • Physiotherapy, 
  • Chiropractic care, 
  • Gait analysis and Customer Orthotics, 
  • Massage Therapy, 
  • Kinesiology and Athletic Therapy 

The proper course of treatment depends on the nature of the injury and what’s needed to alleviate pain, address muscle imbalances, and correct movement patterns to prevent recurrence and further damage. 

Take the Next Step towards Running Without Pain and Injury

Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a novice runner, when pain or injury slows you down, our practitioners at Diversified Health can help. Take the first step on your road to recovery by booking an appointment with one of our practitioners today. Call (250) 382-0018 or book an appointment online. We offer direct billing and weekday and weekend appointments. Please view our hours of operation and location details here.

Adopting the right approach to your overall health and wellbeing helps ensure you’ll be able to participate in running events for years to come!

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Is Personal Training for You?

Is Personal Training for You?

Yes! Personal training is for everyone! At Diversified Health Clinic, our Personal Trainer and Certified Kinesiologist, Angelina Schaaf, works with individuals at all levels and different goals to help you achieve your best self. With our private gym space, Angelina will work one-on-one with you on strength training, cardio training, mobility, or whatever your own personal goals may be. 

What Personal Training Can Assist With

  • Helping you lose weight
  • Learn new skills
  • Train for sports
  • Rehab of an injury
  • Strength training
  • How to safely perform exercises 
  • Improve balance and mobility

There’s a difference between being fit versus being active. No one, not even elite athletes, is born knowing which specific exercises their bodies will respond most favourably to — let alone how to design a complete program that can deliver results within a realistic schedule. Different people have different needs and priorities, and because of this, fitness has never been a one-size-fits-all endeavour. A personal trainer takes the guesswork out of how to obtain your fitness goals by custom-designing an action plan for you (from beginner to advanced), taking into account your personal fitness status now versus your personal fitness goals.

A Personal Trainer Can Help You Start With the Basics

  • Suggesting activities that will work for your body, schedule, and available equipment
  • Showing you how to choose exercises, weights, reps and sets
  • Help teach you how to get the most out of your workouts
  • Help you to figure out how hard to work and how to monitor your intensity

Even if you are a more experienced exerciser, a personal trainer can be the element that takes your workouts to a whole new level, by:

  • Providing a fresh perspective and identifying key areas in your current exercise program that could be adjusted to increase the intensity, effectiveness and fun
  • Challenging you and helping you push harder through plateaus safely and with good form
  • Generating new ideas and uses for the fitness equipment you have access to

We believe everyone benefits from living a more active and healthier lifestyle, and we work with individuals of all fitness levels and ages. In addition, we can work with your schedule to provide you with a customized workout plan to meet your goals.

Suffering from Chronic Health Problems?

For most chronic health problems, exercise can often help people manage the condition and reduce symptoms. For example, chronic conditions that cause pain or other aggravating symptoms may make you less inclined to exercise. However, movement and strengthening specific parts of the body may help alleviate those symptoms in the long run. For example, people with different types of arthritis benefit from learning how to increase strength and joint stability while remaining mindful not to cause further damage to cartilage and joints.

A significant role of personal trainers is to help reduce the risk of injury, regardless of who they are working with or what training they are providing. Acute and overuse injuries commonly occur when people follow a one-size-fits-all program that is not tailored to their needs. Personal trainers are experts in human physiology who tailor specific exercises to people’s varying physical abilities and limitations.

What Are the Mental Health Benefits?

Exercise is beneficial for everyone’s mental health, whether you suffer from a diagnosis or not. Exercise promotes all kinds of positive changes in the brain, including releasing endorphins, which are powerful chemicals that energize your spirit and make you feel good. In addition, exercising can help to relax muscles, relieve tension, and boost the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which affect mood, focus, and attention. Other mental health benefits include:

  • Sharper memory and thinking
  • Higher self-esteem
  • Better sleep
  • More energy
  • Stronger resilience
  • Uplifted mood

What You Can Expect at Your Appointments

During your first visit: 

A complete health assessment will be taken to understand where you currently are, what you would like to improve on, and any injuries or issues you are currently experiencing. Next, we will do a physical assessment to get a baseline of where you are to create a customized training program for you. 

During subsequent appointments: 

We will work one-on-one with you through your customized training program in our private gym space. Angelina will focus on ensuring that you have the correct posture, form, and ability so she can modify any exercises as needed. 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Contact the clinic for more information on Personal Training or to book with Angelina Schaaf. Call us at 250-382-0018 or book your appointment online today!

#personaltraining #fitness #victoriabc #kinesiology #physiotherapy #gym #healthandwellness #training #mobility #strengthtraining #loseweight #rehabexercise #stressmanagement #stronger #self-esteem

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