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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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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 Kanu Priya or our chiropractors Dr. Tessa Bryan and Dr. Alexia Grelson 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, physiotherapist Kanu Priya and chiropractors Dr. Tessa Bryan and Dr. Alexia Grelson all treat vertigo and other vestibular conditions. 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 Kanu Priya, Dr. Tessa Bryan or Dr. Alexia Grelson. 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, your pelvic floor physiotherapist will get a detailed history and understanding of what your symptoms are and how they are affecting you. Then, they 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, they may 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, they 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, your physiotherapist 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

Our Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists

Pelvic floor physiotherapy at Diversified Health Clinic is provided by Kanu Priya and Ivy Elling-Quaintance. Visit their profiles to learn more about their training and approach.

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 Kanu Priya or Ivy Elling-Quaintance. 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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What Is Athletic Therapy?

What is athletic therapy and what makes it different from physiotherapy? It’s a question we receive often and we’re happy to explain the differences and benefits between each.

It is a common misconception that Athletic Therapists only work with athletes.

Athletic Therapy is the treatment of Musculoskeletal issues and conditions using various treatment modalities. It is a common misconception that Athletic Therapists only work with athletes; however, the goal of athletic therapy is to facilitate a client’s desire to return to their desired activity level. Athletic Therapists have in-depth knowledge, education, and training in the human musculoskeletal system to provide exercise prescription, basic emergency care, manual therapies, and various modalities to work with not only athletes but everyone from kids to seniors. 

Athletic Therapists work with you to develop individualized, evidence-based rehabilitation which can include:

  • Rehab of physical injuries 
  • Recovery from surgery
  • Exercise programs
  • Various manual therapies
  • Supportive taping
  • Return to play and active lifestyle
  • Assessment of proper lifting techniques

What is the difference between physiotherapy and athletic therapy?

What is athletic therapy and what makes it different from physiotherapy?

While Athletic Therapy and Physiotherapy have many similarities in their objectives of treating patients, they differ in their educational backgrounds and scope of practice. Physiotherapists’ education focuses on cardiology, orthopaedics and neurology with skills being used to treat a variety of ailments including pediatrics, stroke rehab and many more. Athletic therapists’ education focuses on the musculoskeletal system, biomechanics, and exercise physiology, and includes in-field and in-clinic practicums, and a valid First Responder certificate. Athletic therapy treatments are based on the Sports Medicine Model which is an active rehab approach with an objective to find and treat the root cause of the conditions, not just the symptoms. This method encourages patients to follow an active approach to rehab versus reliance on modalities. 

When Should I see an Athletic Therapist?

  • If you are experiencing any type of pain or discomfort that is affecting your daily life, occupation, or ability to engage in physical activity
  • You are recovering from a surgery
  • You are recovering from an injury and would like to return to your original activity level
  • Return to sports training and reconditioning
  • Looking for corrective exercise training and programs

What can I expect at appointments?

The initial assessment will consist of medical history and understanding of your goals to get a snapshot of your overall health. Mark, Diversified Health Clinic’s Athletic Therapist, will then conduct a physical exam that will consist of movements at the injured joint and strength testing of the surrounding muscles, in addition to tests to isolate the injured structure or area that you are wanting to strengthen. Mark will create a customized treatment plan based on this assessment. 

Subsequent appointments will involve a short history to ensure Mark is aware of any changes that may have occurred since the last visit, and you and Mark will work through the customized treatment plan that could include exercise prescription, manual therapies, equipment assisted soft tissue work, and stretching. 

After treatment, you may be given some home exercises to complement and reinforce the treatment you received. Patient education is persistent throughout all treatments. 

Meet Mark Novak, Diversified Health Clinic’s Athletic Therapist

Mark graduated from Camosun College in June 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic and Exercise Therapy. Mark uses both evidence and personal experience to approach each client with the goal of providing the most effective, well-balanced treatment. Mark uses both manual therapy and rehabilitative exercises to help patients get back to their daily activities or to reach a new goal.

Experience the Benefits of Athletic Therapy

Contact the clinic for more information on Athletic Therapy or to book with Mark Novak please contact us at 250-382-0018 or book an appointment online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

 

#victoriabc #athletictherapy #rehab #sportsinjury #surgery #postop #physiotherpay #multidisciplinaryclinic #exercise 

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Vertigo, BPPV and the Vestibular System

Vertigo, BPPV and the Vestibular System

Do you find yourself losing your balance, feeling dizzy or nauseous? You may be experiencing vertigo caused by issues with your vestibular system. You would also benefit from a targeted assessment to determine the causes of your symptoms using specific techniques and exercises to improve symptoms and get you feeling back to normal. 

The Vestibular System is found inside your inner ear and sends signals primarily to your brain stem. It is responsible for integrating sensory stimuli and movement and for keeping objects in visual focus as the body moves.

Issues With Your Vestibular System Can Cause Symptoms Such As:

  • Dizziness
  • Spinning sensation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Lightheadedness
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Double vision
  • Impaired balance

Vertigo and dizziness are symptoms rather than a disease. Vertigo refers to the sensation of spinning or whirling that occurs due to a disturbance in your balance system. In addition, vertigo is used to describe feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, faintness, and unsteadiness. Vertigo usually occurs because of a disorder in the vestibular system. The vestibular system is the structures of the inner ear, vestibular nerve, brainstem, and cerebellum. 

The Vestibular System

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common vestibular conditions. BPPV is rarely serious except for the possible increase in the chances of falling. BPPV is caused by the crystals in the inner ear becoming unstuck from their usual place and freely moving in one or more of the three ear canals that make up the inner ear. These ear canals are filled with fluid and tiny hair cells, and they tell our brain and eyes about the speed and direction we are moving. When the crystals get into these canals, they disrupt the fluids’ normal movement past the hairs, sending our brain confusing information that makes us feel the spins (vertigo). You may also feel your eyes moving funny as they vibrate side to side, referred to as nystagmus. 

Anyone can experience this in their lifetime; however, it is more common in people over the age of 50 and more common in women. Injuries to the balance organs of the inner ear, head trauma or whiplash can also cause BPPV. In addition to vertigo, other symptoms may include:

  • Dizziness
  • Imbalance
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

BPPV is typically unilateral, which means it occurs either in the left or right ear. Although, in more rare cases, it is bilateral, causing both ears to be affected. BPPV may be experienced for a very short duration, or it may last a lifetime, with symptoms occurring in intermittent patterns that vary by frequency, duration, and intensity. The most common cause of BPPV in people under the age of 50 is head injury and is presumed to result from a concussive force that displaces the otoconia. In people over 50 years of age, BPPV is primarily idiopathic, meaning it occurs for no known reason but is usually linked to natural age-related degeneration of the otolithic membrane. 

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Treatment

Sometimes, BPPV will go away on its own within a few weeks or months; However, the symptoms can be debilitating. At Diversified Health, our vestibular team, physiotherapist Kanu Priya and chiropractors Dr. Tessa Bryan and Dr. Alexia Grelson, can treat you with an in-office particle repositioning procedure. This procedure consists of several simple and slow maneuvers for positioning your head. The goal of these movements is to move the particles from the fluid-filled semicircular canals of your inner ear into a tiny bag-like open area that houses one of the otolith organs where these particles don’t cause trouble and are more easily resorbed. You will also be given home repositioning exercises to help maintain your treatment effect. In many cases, only 1-2 treatments are needed to resolve symptoms. 

What to Expect During Your BPPV Treatment

The procedure involves holding four positions for about 30 seconds each or for as long as you experience symptoms in that hold position. Once symptoms have stopped, your Vestibular Clinician will get you to stay in the position for an additional 30 seconds while watching your eyes for abnormal movements. The procedure may be repeated more than once within one treatment session. They may teach you how to perform the procedure yourself so that you can perform it at home as needed, although nearly 80% of people experience relief after the initial treatment. 

Contact our clinic today for more information on Vertigo-related treatments or to book with physiotherapist Kanu Priya, or chiropractors Dr. Tessa Bryan or Dr. Alexia Grelson, who all treat vestibular conditions. Please contact us at 250-382-0018 or book online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com.

 

#physiotherapy #vertigo #balance #dizzy #chiropractor #victoriabc #balance #health #multidisciplinaryclinic #vestibular

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Extended Benefit Plans and Direct Billing: What You Need to Know

Extended Benefit Plans and Direct Billing: What You Need to Know

Extended Benefit Plans allow you to receive treatments that are covered under your plan, which can be directly billed at the time of service.

Depending on your coverage, you may have to pay a percentage of the treatment cost or nothing at all. As every benefit plan is different, it is imperative that you reach out directly to your employer or insurance company to get an understanding of your plan and what may or may not be required.

While our clinic is pleased to offer direct billing, our administrative team cannot investigate extended benefit plans on behalf of patients to determine what treatments are covered, how many visits you have used, or how many visits you have left. 

Deductibles

Many extended benefit plans have an annual deductible that is applicable at the start of each new year. A deductible is a dollar amount that you have to pay out of pocket until that dollar amount is reached, and then your extended benefits coverage takes effect. You do not have to pay the entire deductible at your first visit, but instead, each visit will go against the deductible until it reaches the maximum. Generally, the lower the deductible or no deductible, the more expensive the policy is and vice versa.

Please note that we cannot see what your annual deductible is or how much is remaining; we can only view the amount placed against the deductible each time we process a direct billing. To find out the annual deductible amount in your plan, please check with your extended benefits company.

What services are eligible for direct billing? 

Our clinic can bill directly for chiropractic, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and registered massage therapy.

Athletic Therapy is not a direct billable service yet; however, many plans will reimburse you if you submit yourself. Check with your extended benefits plan to see if Athletic Therapy is covered.

Kinesiology is only directly billable to ICBC. Always check your benefit plan to see what treatments they deem eligible for direct billing.

What cannot be direct billed?

  1. Missed appointment fees are not billable to most extended benefit plans.
  2. Orthotics are not direct billable; however, many benefit plans cover orthotics up to a specific dollar amount. For more information on orthotics and orthotic billing, please click here. 
  3. Depending on your specific plan, each of our treatment services may or may not be a direct billable service for you. Please refer to your extended benefits guide for what is directly billable under your plan.

What Insurance companies can we direct bill?

Our clinic can direct bill most extended benefits companies, including but not limited to:

  • Manulife 
  • Sunlife 
  • Canada Life (Formally, Great West Life) 
  • Greenshield
  • Pacific Blue Cross
  • Veterans, RCMP, CAF 
  • Desjardins
  • Group Health/ Group Source
  • People’s Corporation
  • Empire Life
  • ClaimSecure
  • Johnston Group
  • Chamber of Commerce
  • Maximum Benefits
  • Group Medical Service 

Partner/Spousal coverage or secondary policy coverage

We can directly bill your primary benefits provider and your secondary provider at the same time of service with a few exceptions. For example, we generally require your partner’s date of birth and full legal name along with policy information.

Suppose we are unable to bill directly to the secondary coverage due to benefit rules or other restrictions. In that case, we will still direct bill your primary coverage and then only collect the remaining amount from you. We can then provide you with a receipt to send to the secondary coverage for reimbursement. 

For more information or to book a treatment:

Contact our clinic to find out more about extended benefits or to book an appointment at 250-382-0018 or book online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

#extendedbenefits #physiotherapy #chiropractic #registeredmassagetherapy #acupuncture #victoriaBC #injury #mva #multidisciplinary #healthandwellness

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Been in a Car Accident? Diversified Health Clinic Is Here to Help!

Been in a Car Accident? Diversified Health Clinic Is Here to Help!

Being in a car accident can be a scary and overwhelming experience that can cause lasting injuries. This is why it is important to understand what your injuries are and what treatments are available to you. One result of trauma when you are involved in an accident is the release of endorphins that can act as a painkiller to mask your injuries and pain.  Most muscle pain and stiffness will typically occur in the first 24 hours but can take as long as 7-10 days to present. For this reason, it is important to seek medical attention within the first 24 hours of your accident.

car accident injuries

After seeking medical attention, the next step is to contact ICBC to report the accident and start your claim. ICBC will assign you a claim number and a care team to help assist with your recovery. For more information on how to report a claim to ICBC, please click here. 

With your approved ICBC claim number, you will have access to several pre-approved treatments that will assess and treat any injuries from your accident under the new Enhanced Care Program. 

 

ICBC Enhanced Care Program

ICBC recently moved to their enhanced care program in 2021, which gives drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists enhanced recovery benefits. You will have access to pre-approved treatments within the first 12 weeks of the accident date for chiropractic, physiotherapy, registered massage therapy, kinesiology and acupuncture without the requirement of a doctor referral. ICBC sets the treatment fees. Bring your claim number and we bill ICBC directly. At the end of the 12 weeks or the pre-approved treatments, our practitioners can complete a treatment plan to request additional pre-approved treatments if needed. 

Recovering From Your Injuries: How many pre-approved treatments do you get?

The number of pre-approved treatments will vary depending on the treatment modality. Within the first 12 weeks of the accident date, you are pre-approved for 25 chiropractic and physiotherapy treatments, and for 12 registered massage therapy, kinesiology, and acupuncture treatments.  

What can our team at Diversified Health Clinic do?

Treatment of your auto-collision injuriesOur multi-disciplinary team will work with you, with the ability to collaborate across treatment modalities to ensure you are getting the best treatment results. Our Diversified Health Team can evaluate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of conditions and injuries including:

  • Headaches, concussion
  • Whiplash and neck pain
  • Back pain
  • Chronic pain
  • Numbness, tingling and nerve damage
  • Muscle spasms or weakness
  • Surgical recovery
  • Disc herniation and bulging
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Hip, knee and/or joint pain
  • Sprains, strains, and fractures

Our valued team of practitioners will assess and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to your pre-accident self. Our talented Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, Acupuncturists, Registered Massage Therapists, and Kinesiologist have a vast array of treatment knowledge at their disposal along with state-of-the-art technology such as:

Contact our clinic to find out more about ICBC related treatments at 250-382-0018 or book online today.

#ICBC #caraccident #accidentrecovery #physiotherapy #kinesiology #chiropractor #acupuncture #registeredmassagetherapy #victoriabc #whiplash #carinjury #mva

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Spinal Decompression Therapy Explained

Spinal Decompression Therapy Explained

If you have been struggling with chronic back, neck or sciatic pain, you do not have to live with the pain! spinal decompression therapy is a painless, non-surgical, drug-free way to help relieve chronic back, neck and sciatic pain. Continue reading to learn how spinal decompression works and why it’s an option worth exploring. 

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy utilizes a type of motorized traction that involves stretching the spine with the goal of relieving back pain and/or leg pain. The bones of the spine are slowly separated, and pressure is slowly reduced within the disc until a vacuum is formed. This vacuum creates negative pressure and space within the disc to allow disc fluid to move back into place. This reduces the bulge or herniation of the disc and creates an environment where the disc can receive more nutrients and therefore be able to heal more effectively.

Spinal Compression Is Used to Treat:

  • Back, neck or sciatica pain
  • Bulging or herniated disks
  • Degenerative disk disease
  • Worn Spinal Joints (posterior facet syndrome)
  • Injured or diseased spinal nerve roots

When Do You Use Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is for patients looking for a non-surgical and non-drug approach to relieving chronic back pain, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. Spinal decompression is also used for patients that present with an MRI that confirms herniated discs causing nerve pressure. However, spinal decompression treatments cannot be used for patients who are pregnant or suffering from spinal fractures, tumours of the spine, abdominal aortic aneurysm, severe osteoporotic disease, or metal implantations in their spine. 

What Are Spinal Decompression Treatments Like?Spinal Decompression Therapy Table

During spinal decompression treatments, fully clothed patients are secured into a harness that is attached to the motorized table. The practitioner will program the table for your treatment and the amount of traction your spine will go through. Depending on the treatment, you will be lying either face-up or face down. Each session lasts no longer than 15-20 minutes. You will feel pressure applied to your lower back and will feel as though you are being “stretched out.” You should not feel any pain during spinal decompression therapy.

How Long Until You See Results?

Before and After Spinal Decompression Therapy

Individual results vary; however, most patients notice a difference within their first 5-6 spinal decompression therapy treatments and experience pain relief within as few as 6-10 treatments.

Not only is spinal decompression painless – patients often enjoy the relief they feel from their symptoms when they are on the table being decompressed. Most patients will need to come in for treatment three times a week for one month, transitioning from passive to active treatments as their bodies respond and will also be prescribed a customized exercise program to target the areas that require more stabilization.

Clinical results show that spinal decompression has been effective in over 75% of patients treated. In addition, most patients found long-term relief or effective management of pain when they completed their spinal decompression treatments. Your practitioner may also recommend additional treatment modalities such as heat/cold therapy, electric stimulation, K-Laser and home exercises.

Benefits of Spinal Decompression Therapy

  1. Provides pain relief by relieving tension in tight, spasming or injured muscles. Spinal decompression helps to stimulate the nervous system to release neuro-chemical signals that have an analgesic effect on the body. 
  2. Promotes the healing of spinal disc tissues by imposing a vacuum-like force on the spinal discs, which helps to draw healing fluids, cells, and other substances toward the damaged tissue. 
  3. Helps restore normal spinal joint and disc alignment with the same vacuum-like force. That vacuum-like force helps to align the joints and discs which prevents further pain, inflammation, impaired mobility, and dysfunction.
  4. Relieves pressure on spinal nerves by increasing the space around the nerves which allows them to begin healing.

For More Information on Spinal Decompression Therapy (and Whether It’s Right for You):

Contact Diversified Health Clinic at 250-382-0018 to find out more about spinal decompression treatments, or book with our practitioners online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

#physiotherapy #chiropractic #backpain #chronicbackpain #victoriabc #sciatica #degenerativedisc

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