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Nerve Pain With Sciatica: What It Is and How We Approach Sciatic Treatment in Victoria BC

Nerve Pain With Sciatica and Sciatic Treatment Victoria BC

Ouch! Have you ever experienced a sharp, shooting, burning or pinching pain down your lower back, glutes, hamstrings or calves? Or how about a sudden and severe “electric jolt” like feeling following activity? While nerve pain with sciatica can be severe, it can also manifest as a mild, aching pain that seems to come and go. Some people experience sciatica as a weakness and numbness in the affected area. When nerve pain with sciatica becomes severe, it’s nearly impossible to ignore. When patients arrive at our clinic, it’s often because their sciatica pain is interfering with their ability to enjoy their usual activities, including work, rest, and recovery.

 First, What is Nerve Pain With Sciatica?

Nerve Pain With SciaticaSciatica is the term used to describe sciatic nerve pain. Nerve pain can occur anywhere in the body while sciatic nerve pain affects the lower back and lower, posterior extremities. This is because of how the sciatic nerve branches off your lower spine (just above your buttocks) before threading down through your glutes, hamstrings and calves. Sciatic nerve pain often occurs on one side of the body, or is markedly worse on one side of the body, and can arise from various physical triggers as outlined below.

Nerve pain with sciatica occurs when a nerve is pinched, which can be caused by a myriad of contributing factors, including:

  • Obesity
  • Inflammation
  • Poor posture
  • Chronically tight or strained muscles
  • Short and tight hip flexor and hamstring muscles
  • Spinal bone spurs and overgrowths
  • Herniated disc
  • Incorrect form during exercise
  • Occupational strain 
  • Following an accident or injury
  • Tumor growth
  • Complications of underlying diseases such as diabetes. 

Things You Can Do to Help Prevent Nerve Pain with Sciatica

You can help reduce your chances of developing pinched nerves by establishing good physical habits, including:

Regular Exercise & Stretching

Making time in your week for adequate fitness and activity with a focus on consistency, proper form, stretching, and sufficient recovery. If you’re new to a workout or activity, consider getting help from one of our physiotherapists to ensure you are performing each move with proper form to avoid pinching nerves or overstraining your spine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing injuries. Everybody is different: An exercise that works fine for your friend, may not work as well for you, and gym and sports equipment should be adjusted to fit your specific body dynamics–this includes proper footwear!

Maintaining Good Posture

Be mindful of your posture while sitting, standing, lifting and otherwise exerting your body. This includes assessing the ergonomics of your seating and workstation arrangement. Subtle adjustments can make the difference between a happy body versus one riddled with muscle tightness, inflammation, nerve pain, and injury.

Adequate Rest and Recovery

Athletes know that adequate recovery is just as critical as being active, but rest is often the first thing people take for granted. Good recovery starts with knowing when your body needs rest and giving it the support it requires to repair itself and grow stronger. This includes steps such as good nutrition, icing, rolling, and massage to help reduce inflammation. It also includes how you sleep. 

Support While You Sleep

There’s a science to choosing the right pillow. Make sure your pillow has the right density and height, according to your preferred sleeping position. You want to maintain the natural curvature in your neck. It also helps to take the pressure off your lower back and hips by placing a rolled-up towel or pillow behind the crook of your knees (when laying on your back) or between your bent knees (when laying on your side). The idea is to keep your knees slightly bent in order to maintain a very slight natural curve in your lower back. This also helps to relax tight hip flexors, glutes, and hamstrings.

Supporting your spinal health during work, rest and sleep can be a pretty significant game-changer. A physiotherapist can demonstrate specific stretches and techniques you can use at work and at home to relieve nerve pain with sciatic and support your recovery. 

Pain Indicates It’s Time to Seek Treatment

Ignoring nerve pain is never a good idea. Consider that pain is your body’s way of communicating that something isn’t as it should be. Neglecting to address the pain and the cause of it can result in compounding complications or even permanent nerve damage. Being proactive is key. The good news is that sciatica pain can often be resolved with non-invasive treatments that target the root causes of pinched nerves and prevent the pain from coming back.

Relieving Nerve Pain with Sciatica: Sciatic Treatment  in Victoria, BC:

Because pain can be caused by a variety of factors that are unique to your situation, at Diversified Health Clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to treating nerve pain with sciatica. We start with a thorough initial consultation before tailoring a treatment plan for you that’s based on the specific causes of your pain. Your treatment plan may include one or more of the following treatments and will include tips on how you can maintain your results at home between appointments.

Depending on the cause and severity of sciatica and nerve pain, patients often start feeling relief after the first visit, which only gets better as the treatments progress. It brings us tremendous satisfaction to see our patients return to their favourite activities and lifestyles without the hindrance of pain and fatigue. Life is too precious to spend it in unnecessary pain, especially when effective treatments are within reach.

 If you suffer from the symptoms of nerve pain with sciatica, 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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Registered Massage Therapist Approved, Low Impact Things to Do This Summer in Victoria, BC

Low-impact activities recommended by a registered massage therapist in Victoria, BC.

Summertime is finally here and Victorians are anxious to get outside and enjoy all the activities and events our beautiful island has to offer. While many of the events Victorian’s look forward to every summer have been canceled due to the pandemic, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to experience. That said, when you’re recovering from an old injury, finding activities you can safely partake in can prove a challenge at times. Here’s a list of relatively low-impact activities to consider along with tips from our registered massage therapist in Victoria BC.

Exploring Victoria’s Local, Outdoor Markets

Victoria’s outdoor markets are a forager’s delight and are a perfect, low-impact way to spend a summer morning or afternoon without causing undue strain. Grab a coffee or snack and enjoy exploring the following markets at your own pace, and don’t hesitate to take a seat and rest along the way. Victoria hosts a variety of outdoor public markets but the following are a few of our favourites that are, thus far, still operating (according to physical distancing measures) this summer.

Safe Foraging Tips From a Registered Massage Therapist in Victoria, BC:

Being as neck, back, knee and hip pain can often stem from irregular gait issues, make note of your posture while standing. Keeping your shoulders back and knees slightly bent can help reduce undue strain when standing for long periods. Listen to when your body is asking for a rest. Fortunately, Victoria has a lot of areas suitable for sitting and resting. Also, don’t forget to hydrate! Carry a reusable water bottle with a splash of coconut water or a Nuun electrolyte tablet to keep your body well hydrated in the heat. Besides preventing dehydration and heatstroke, good hydration helps prevent muscle tension and lactic acid build-up.

Bastion Square Market

What to Expect: Located along Government Street (between Government and Wharf Street and beside Irish Times Pub), Bastion Square Market brings together local artists and makers, showcasing locally-crafted art, jewelry, baking, teas, clothing, hand-bound leather journals and more. Visit their Facebook Page for more details and event updates.

When: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from July 4 to Sept 27

What Time: 11am – 4:30pm

Where: Bastion Square, along Government Street in downtown Victoria.

Getting There: Map and Directions Here

Midsummer Artisan Market

What to Expect: Hillside Shopping Centre is hosting a large outdoor market featuring food and wares offered by up to 50 local artists and vendors. There will be treasures abound for all ages to safely enjoy and explore while maintaining social distancing measures. Visit their Facebook Page for more details and event updates.

When: Saturday & Sunday of August 8th & 9th

What Time: Saturday 10am – 6pm, Sunday 11am – 5pm

Where: Outdoor Parking lot (behind Marshall’s Dept Store) of Hillside Shopping Centre, at 1644 Hillside Ave.

Getting There: Map and Directions Here

Moss Street Market

What to Expect: One of Victoria’s most popular outdoor markets. Local farmers, artists and craftspeople have been coming together at Moss Street to showcase and sell their goods since the early 1990s. Visit their Facebook Page for more details and event updates, and check out their market vendor map here.

When: Saturdays from May through October

What Time: 10am – 2pm

Where: Spanning Robert J Porter Park and Brooke Street Park in the Fairfield area on the outskirts of downtown Victoria.

Getting Here: Map and Directions Here

Get Back in Touch With West Coast Nature With a Trail Walk

Trail walking is a good, low-impact activity approved by a registered massage therapist in Victoria BC.

Vancouver Island is best known for its natural splendor, trails, coastlines and forests. While our outdoors are enjoyed year-round, summertime provides more daylight hours and warmth to enjoy our outdoor trails and waterfront. When was the last time you walked through the woods or relaxed at the beach? Whether you’re up for some light activity or need an excuse to get outdoors and catch up with a friend, Victoria offers a variety of low-impact trails and watersports to try this summer.

Trail Walking Tips From a Registered Massage Therapist in Victoria, BC:  

First and foremost, consider the activity, duration, outdoor elements, your current physical conditioning and pre-existing injuries before embarking on any activity. Make sure you pre-hydrate and carry enough water and light snacks to fuel your excursion. Always make a point of letting someone reliable know where you are going to be in case of emergency, and if the activity allows, carry your phone with you just in case. Make sure to wear the right footwear for long walks (no flip flops). 

A Forested Walk Around Elk and Beaver Lake Trail

What to Expect: The flat, 10km long, wood-chip trail that wraps around Beaver Lake and Elk Lake is perfect for walking while catching up with a friend. The soft, marked trail that outlines the edges of both lakes is lined with tall trees that shelter much of it from the sun. While the flat trail is ideal for low-impact walking and jogging, prevent aggravating a pre-existing injury by considering the distance and what your body is accustomed to. View this page on Victoria Trails website for more details and directions.

When: Year-Round

What Time: Anytime during daylight hours. Depart on your walk no later than 2-3 hours from sundown.

Where: Located in Saanich, which is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Victoria. To start your walk from Beaver Lake Park where there is ample parking, take the Pat Bay Highway, heading towards Sidney. Take a left at the traffic lights at Elk Lake Drive and keep left before turning right into the entrance of Beaver Lake Park. Once you enter the park, continue driving along the narrow, wooded road until you reach the first large parking area. Leashed dogs are always welcomed on the trail but not on the beach or picnic areas between June 1st to Sept 15.

Getting Here: Beaver Lake Park Map and Directions Here.

Decompress With a Beachfront Stroll Along Island View Beach

What to Expect: Take in the fresh ocean air and scenic views of Haro Strait with a leisurely walk along the 2km long, flat gravel trails surrounding Island View Beach. Less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Victoria, Island View Beach is one of Victoria’s most scenic, sheltered waterfronts and includes designated parking, washrooms, picnic and camping areas. Leashed-dogs are always welcomed on the trail but are not permitted on the beach or picnic areas from June 1 to Sept 15. Visit their page on Victoria Trails website for more details and directions.

When: Year-Round

What Time: Any time of day or evening. Island View Beach offers an excellent vantage point for stargazing as well.

Where: Central Saanich. Take Pat Bay Hwy towards Sidney and turn right on Island View Road.

Getting Here: Map and Directions Here

Explore the Coastlines by Paddleboard

What’s island living without indulging in a water sport or two? What Victoria lacks in big surfing breaks, it makes up for in ideal conditions for lower-impact activities such as stand-up paddle boarding. 

Paddle Boarding Tips From a Registered Massage Therapist in Victoria, BC:

If you’re going to bring items with you, It’s a good idea to place your phone, keys and cash in a sealed Ziplock bag before placing them in a dry bag affixed to the paddleboard. Always let someone know where you’ll be, and wear a life jacket. 

When renting your paddleboard, a reputable vendor will take the time to properly fit you to a lifejacket and paddle length. The appropriate paddle length will help you maintain proper balance and posture on the board while reducing undue stress and tension in your arms, shoulders, neck and back.

While paddleboarding is considered a relatively low-impact activity compared to more strenuous water sports, its suitability depends on your current conditioning and the nature and location of your injuries. Balancing on a paddleboard requires the exertion of core muscles, and stabilizing muscles of the quads, glutes, hamstrings and calves, while the action of proper paddling works the upper back, shoulders and trapezius muscles. Make time to stretch your muscles while they’re still warm following your paddleboard excursion. People with excessive upper back, shoulder and neck injuries should consult with their registered massage therapist, physician or health practitioner before engaging in any new activities.

Paddleboarding the Sheltered and Scenic Waters of Brentwood Bay

What to Expect: You’ll find a variety of paddleboard rental services and areas to explore throughout Victoria and Saanich. One of the things we love about paddle boarding in Brentwood Bay is the sheltered waters of Saanich Inlet that connect to Tod Inlet which runs behind Butchart Gardens. We also appreciate Brentwood Bay Lodge’s full-service marina (complete with private washrooms and showers), and of course, the on-location pub. 

The waters of Brentwood Bay offer ideal conditions for paddleboarding. And Pacifica Paddle Sports sets you up right there on the dock. Take one of their tours or go off on your own. Paddle the coastline west of the docks for a fun tour through moored sailboats before reaching the serene waters of Tod Inlet. Take your time around stony outcrops to marvel at colourful abalone and starfish, and mind your paddling as you glide over the glass-like waters of Tod Inlet that tuck behind Butchart Gardens–home to blooms of beautiful but relatively harmless, fried egg (Phacellophora camtschatica) jellyfish. You’ll likely work up an appetite, and the Brentwood Bay Pub and Patio are a perfect way to complete your day. 

When: Mon through Sunday

What Time: 9am – 8:30pm

Where: Located at Brentwood Bay Lodge and Marina (an estimated 30-minute drive from Downtown Victoria). Pacifica Paddle Sports Brentwood location is nestled on the docks of Brentwood Resort’s marina.

Getting Here:   Map and Directions Here.

We’re Here for You

An injury doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines this summer. There are plenty of low-impact activities you can still safely enjoy. Be mindful of the signals your body sends you, be prepared for each excursion, and make time for adequate rest, recovery and self-care. 

If you have any questions, pains or concerns, consult a registered massage therapist in Victoria at Diversified Health Clinic for information about the treatment options and integrated approach we offer. 

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Long Term Benefits of Chiropractic Maintenance Care

chiropractic maintenance care

Have you ever experienced persistent and recurrent back pain? Treatment helps to keep the pain at bay, but, whether it be a job or daily life, the pain returns. Sometimes persistent aches and pains due to work and daily life cannot be avoided and will continue to return despite using exercise and movement to help relieve symptoms. If this is the case, chiropractic maintenance care may be an option to help. 

Chiropractic maintenance care is used as a preventative measure to help ensure that recurrent or persistent pain is not occurring frequently in a patient’s day-to-day life. Although many chiropractic patients benefit from maintenance care, often individuals inquire as to why they need it if the pain has not returned. Similar to going to the dentist to get your teeth cleaned and checked, chiropractic maintenance care helps to ensure the patient is preventing persistent and recurrent pain.

Is Chiropractic Maintenance Care Right For You?

There are many factors to consider when choosing whether or not to use chiropractic maintenance care. Firstly, maintenance care can be used by a wide variety of people with many different conditions. If you consistently have soreness and stiffness in the back once a month, once every two months, or even only twice a year, maintenance care once every 1-3 months can help to prevent re-occurrence of pain and maintain the clinical improvements from previous treatments. 

Secondly, if you are not experiencing pain and stiffness, it is still beneficial to be coming into the clinic for maintenance care treatments. When maintenance care was studied (Nordic Maintenance Care Studies), they found patients who came in for regularly scheduled visits despite pain and stiffness, experienced less bothersome pain with only 2 additional treatments. 

Thirdly, chiropractic maintenance care can be more cost-effective when compared to waiting until pain becomes problematic and debilitating. Patients who come in for regularly scheduled visits have less likelihood of developing bothersome pain and dysfunction that can take several visits to help relieve and return to baseline. This means less time spent coming into the clinic in a month and continued prevention and maintenance of the current improvements. 

Chiropractic Treatments in Victoria, BC

I enjoy working with patients who have had persistent and chronic pain that can be helped with chiropractic care. Providing patients with regular maintenance helps me to encourage regular exercise, ensure patients are not developing bad habits or movement patterns, and maintain the proper functioning of the entire skeletal system. If you have chronic and persistent pain, don’t hesitate to call and make an appointment at Diversified Health Clinic in beautiful downtown, Victoria, BC.

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Plantar Fasciitis: What It Is and How It’s Treated

What Plantar Fasciitis Is and How to Treat It

Ouch! Have you been experiencing a shooting or stabbing pain in one or both heels upon stepping out of bed or after long periods of sitting? You may be suffering from plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain and, if left untreated, often becomes much worse. 

What Plantar Fasciitis Is

What Plantar Fasciitis Is

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia that encases the ligament which spans the sole of your foot, connecting the heel of your foot to the base of your toes. It is caused by small tears that occur in the plantar fascia as a result of repeated foot strain. It’s the most common cause of heel pain and tends to be progressive unless treated. 

Plantar fasciitis sufferers experience what is typically described as being an acute, stabbing pain in their heels. The pain tends to be worse in the mornings or after long periods of sitting or resting. 

What Causes it

Plantar fasciitis is caused by repetitive strain to the soles of the feet. It is a common ailment suffered by individuals with occupational or athletic activities that place a lot of tension and stress on their feet. It can also result from improper foot dynamics from overly high or flat arches, unsuitable footwear, or an imbalanced gait, and is a common occurrence for:

  • People whose occupation requires them to spend long periods on their feet (ie: nurses, factory workers, hair stylists and clerks). 
  • Runners, dancers and individuals who partake in activities that place excess strain on their feet. 
  • Individuals between the ages of 40 – 60 (most commonly). 
  • Anyone carrying excess weight. 
  • People with gait issues or suboptimal foot dynamics. 

A Word of Warning About Footwear

 

The Importance of Proper Footwear

Walking barefoot and sporting flip-flops may be part of island living during the summer months, but should be avoided by those who are prone to foot strain. It’s also pertinent that runners and other athletes replace worn-out athletic shoes and ensure their footwear offers adequate arch support, cushioning and shock absorption that’s based on proper foot ergonomics and according to their sport. 

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

It’s best to treat plantar fasciitis at the early onset of symptoms. People who ignore symptoms often unknowingly adjust their walking patterns in efforts to partially relieve pain, resulting in undue strain and injury to other areas of the body including the knees, hip and back. This is why prompt treatment is prudent. 

Plantar Fasciitis treatment often combines physiotherapy, massage therapy, gait analysis and custom orthotics to relieve pain and tension and prevent further foot strain. Treatment may include recommendations for icing, rest and the short-term use of over the counter pain-killers as needed.

The good news is that with proper treatment and new preventative measures, plantar fasciitis symptoms can be relieved and sufferers can often comfortably return to the activities they enjoy. 

If You Suspect You Have Plantar Fasciitis or Are Concerned About Foot Strain:

Contact Diversified Health Clinic today to book an appointment, or for more information on the treatment options we provide, including our innovative GaitScan Analysis. Our integrated approach and amenities empower our practitioners to provide you with treatment options that are custom-tailored to your specific needs. We also offer direct billing and weekend appointments.

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Safe Tips for Running During COVID-19

running during covid-19

Like many of you during the pandemic, I have been running during COVID-19 as my primary mode of exercise. Over the last few months, I have come to a few realizations as follows:

Number One: Running is Hard

While running during COVID-19 can help relieve mental and emotional stress, running puts a lot of strain on the muscles of the lower leg and hips making it easy to spill into a state of overuse. Whether it’s a developing Achilles pain, plantar fascia pain, or knee pain, they all indicate that the individual is not tolerating the volume or intensity of running and/or that there may be biomechanical faults in their running gait. Running is also hard because it hurts. It requires developing comfort with being uncomfortable often over a long period of time. Because of the uncomfortable nature of running, it becomes very hard to gauge whether the pain in your body is an acceptable part of conditioning or if it’s something to worry about.

Number Two: Running Can be Incredibly Enjoyable

From tracking your progress and accomplishing time goals to the endorphin rush after a great run, there are many reasons why people can become addicted to running. Running is a great way to burn some calories and air out your lungs while requiring minimal equipment (just a good pair of shoes). Running can also be a way to make friends and gain a sense of community in the form of joining a running group. 

“Running during COVID-19 is an excellent way to decompress and stay in shape.”

As a physiotherapist, I really enjoy working with aspiring, amateur, or competitive runners because they almost all come to treatment with the most important thing – motivation. All I have to do is help guide their running volume and help get them engaged in areas of their body that are perhaps lagging behind while helping them learn which pains in their body are okay and which ones are not. If you are experiencing any nagging aches or pains from running and want to get it resolved, feel free to book a physiotherapy appointment at the clinic. Happy trails!

In the video below see one of my favorite exercises for people experiencing knee pain from running. This exercise targets the gluteus medius in the lateral hip. Whether the pain is coming from your IT band or from your kneecap, it’s likely contributed by weakness in your gluteus medius. Give it a try!

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Staged Re-opening of Diversified Health Clinic

We are pleased to announce the staged re-opening of Diversified Health Clinic for in-person appointments beginning Tuesday, May 19th. Patients can book appointments online or by calling us at 250-382-0018.

As we re-open the clinic, we will maintain our commitment to protecting stakeholders and their families against community transmission of COVID-19. To fulfill this commitment, we have implemented the following new policies:

Clinic/staff protocols 

  • Staff and Practitioners will be required to check their temperature at the beginning and end of each shift.
  • Staff and Practitioners with COVID-19 symptoms will be asked to go home.
  • Our reception area will be reconfigured to respect social distancing guidelines.
  • Reception Staff will interact with Patients from behind a plexiglass screen.
  • Staff and Practitioners will wear cloth or non-procedural paper masks when interacting with Patients.
  • We will increase the frequency of cleaning all common areas and treatment rooms.

Patient requirements 

  • Patients will be asked about illness and recent travel prior to attending in-person appointments.
  • Please cancel and reschedule your appointment if you do not feel well – no cancellation fees will be charged.
  • Please come to the Clinic at your appointment time; avoid coming early if possible.
  • Where possible, please attend your appointment alone to minimize the number of people in our reception area.
  • We will provide Patients with hand sanitizer and ask that you please clean your hands when entering and exiting the Clinic.
  • Patients will be required to wear a cloth or paper mask during their appointments. If you do not have a mask, we will provide one for a nominal $2 fee.

Thank you for your patience and support in the coming weeks as we navigate our safe re-opening. The Diversified Health Clinic team is excited to be welcoming patients back to the clinic.

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How to Conquer Seasonal Allergies

seasonal allergies

Spring may be beautiful, but there are many who live with seasonal allergies who look upon the return of flowers, blossoms and other beautiful blooming plants with trepidation.

An ‘allergy’ is a sensitivity to something in your body that is usually harmless. When your body encounters a foreign substance inside your nose or air ways, the allergic reaction begins. Seasonal allergies are the same thing.

An allergic reaction is what happens in your body following exposure to allergens.  The tissues inside your nose respond to allergens by releasing substances such as histamine. Histamines then trigger sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes and itchy throat or nose.

What is Hay Fever?

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever”, affects millions of people every spring. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, coughing, itchy watery eyes, congestion etc.

Allergies are your body’s reaction to allergens (mold, dust pollen), a sign that your immune system is working overtime.

Allergies are your immune system trying to defend itself. You immune system identifies pollen, dust etc. as an invader or allergen. Your immune system overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction.

Pollen and Mold Both Trigger Allergies

Pollen are tiny particles that are released from trees, weeds, and grasses. The weather can affect the amount of pollen in the air at any time.

Molds are tiny fungi that thrive in moist warm conditions; with their spores floating in the air, much like pollen.

Allergy testing can verify whether you’re reacting to mold, pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Every person is different in what they react to.  Just because you haven’t reacted to something currently, doesn’t mean you won’t react to it in the future. Anyone can become sensitized at any time.

5 Simple Steps to Manage Seasonal Allergies

There are some simple steps you can take to limit your exposure to the pollen or molds that cause your symptoms:

  1. Keep your windows closed
  2. Try to stay indoors when the pollen counts are highest, typically between 5am and 10am
  3. When you return indoors, take a shower and change clothes
  4. Avoid chores that stir up pollen and molds such as gardening, and lawn mowing
  5. Keep the relative humidity in your home below 50 percent; this also helps to discourage mold

Acupuncture Can Help With Seasonal Allergies

While allergy medications can temporarily alleviate the symptoms of hay fever, acupuncture addresses the underlying imbalance that’s causing the symptoms in the first place.

Acupuncture looks at allergies as a general disruption of a person’s defensive mechanisms. Instead of accepting the over reactive immune response and suppressing it with antihistamines, acupuncturists look at why the person’s immunity is compromised.

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COVID-19 Temporary Closure

On March 11th, 2020, COVID-19 was named a pandemic by the World Health Organization. We are paying close attention to protection measures as outlined by the Ministry of Health and have made the decision to temporarily close the clinic to allow our staff, practitioners and patients to respect social distancing guidelines.

We will post updates on our website to keep the DHC community informed on timelines for re-opening.

Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time. We appreciate everyone doing their part to help flatten the curve of COVID-19 infection.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or are concerned you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please contact your primary care provider, local public health office or call HealthLink BC at 811.

Thank you from the Team at Diversified Health Clinic.

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Where are the 10 Most Dangerous Intersections on Vancouver Island?

The 10 Most Dangerous Intersections on Vancouver Island

Diversified Health Care regularly publishes Victoria Healthcare News, a curated selection of articles about holistic medical therapy and injury recovery. This month we begin with an article about where Victoria’s most dangerous intersections are.

According to the most recent ICBC data, the McKenzie interchange area at McKenzie Avenue and the Trans-Canada Highway turning lane recorded the highest number of recorded crashes, with 11,500 between 2013 and 2017. There were 200,000 crashes on all of Vancouver Island during that period.

The most dangerous intersections

Should Victoria Bike Lanes Have Speed Limits for E-Bikes?

Under B.C.’s Motor Vehicle Act, the maximum speed for electric bikes on level ground without pedaling is 32 kilometers an hour. However, many motorized bikes top these speeds. Is it time for a speed limit?

victoria healthcare news

Will ICBCs Move to No-fault Insurance Be Harmful to Cyclists?

A lawyer warns that changes the provincial government has proposed for ICBC may leave those who feel most vulnerable on the road worse off than under the current system. “When accidents happen, we get badly hurt and our ability to pursue compensation and make sure our families are protected in the event of an accident have been massively compromised.”

What Do You Think?

What do you think about these stories? Leave a comment below — we’d love to hear from you. And, as always, if you have any questions, be sure to contact our health clinic in Victoria.

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Spring is in the air! Allergy Season Relief with Acupuncture

Spring is in the air! Allergy Season Relief with Acupuncture

If you suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms, you might want to consider visiting an acupuncturist. The goal of the acupuncturist is to develop a plan which addresses the person’s acute symptoms and provides relief while addressing the underlying immune system imbalance which is thought to be at the root of the person’s allergies.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Watery eyes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Postnasal drip
  • Ear congestion
  • Itchy sinuses, throat, eyes, or ear canals
  • Adenoid swelling – this occurs when the lymph tissue that lines the back of the throat swells
  • Dark circles under the eyes – caused by swelling and discoloration from the congestion of small blood vessels beneath the skin in the eye area.

If your allergy symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should see your allergist or an acupuncturist for proper testing, diagnosis and treatment. Finding and treating the source of your suffering can also clear up other unwanted symptoms. Less-common allergy symptoms may include: headache, shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing.

Decreasing Your Spring Allergy Triggers:

  • Try to stay indoors whenever the pollen count  is high – Pollen levels tend to peak in the morning
  • When the day is windy, pollen can counts surge
  • Vacuum often and clean air filters regularly
  • Keep your doors and windows closed to keep allergens out, and use an air purifier
  • Wash bedding and rugs in hot water to eliminate dust mites and other allergens
  • Shower, and change clothing after going outside to wash away pollen

If these steps still don’t provide any relief, and before turning to over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays and eye drops, speak with your healthcare practitioner to discuss all your options for treatment, including acupuncture.

Acupuncture treatment plans for allergies will vary greatly from person to person. The possible results will range from temporary relief to complete remission. Acupuncture frequently relieves nasal congestion and sneezing as soon as the needles are inserted.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies please contact our Registered Acupuncturist for more information on how she can help with your allergy symptoms.

 

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