Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Shoveling and Your Back


Snow Shoveling and Your Back

The winter season brings with it snow that we can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, or making snowmen just to name a few. There are also activities that we don’t enjoy so much particularly when the weather is cold such as shoveling snow off our sidewalks and driveways. The weight of the snow and the cold weather can cause back problems and sore muscles.

There are a few things that we can do to help prevent or reduce the stress on our back and bodies when shoveling snow.

-      Stretch lightly before going outside

-      Use a shovel that you can handle easily

-      Don’t lift too much snow

-      Push the snow rather than lifting and carrying the snow

-      Take a break and catch your breath as needed

-      If you have a large area to do, do some now and some later

-      Keep your spine aligned by visiting your friendly chiropractor at our clinic

We are available Monday to Saturday at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness. Call us at 403-347-3261

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Massage and Tension Headaches

Massage and Tension Headaches
Massage therapy reduces the occurrences of tension headaches. In Live Strong Joe King, MD asserts that many chronic tension headaches can lead to a buildup of collagen fibers where your tendons and ligaments attach to the bones of your head and neck. These fibers do not contract and are hard and stiff. The presence of collagen fibers can result in physical deformity, discomfort, pain, and a decrease in joint function, which can all trigger more tension headaches. Massage can be used to break up the collagen fibers located around your cervical vertebrae, which can alleviate the stress they place on your muscles and joints. Further, massage offers an alternative treatment because it is a non invasive, soothing method to the manage discomfort and prevent further episodes. In my practice I have worked with several clients who experience high levels of suffering from ongoing headaches and migraine episodes and they have all received significant relief from massage sessions.
To book a massage with Guy, call us at 403-347-3261, Family First Chiropractic 1452 Erickson Dr Red Deer. www.family1stchiro.ca

 

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

What happens during a CranioSacral Treatment


So, what happens during a CranioSacral therapy treatment?
Before the treatment - If this is your first appointment, we will first work through your medical history and your expectations from this CranioSacral Therapy treatment. You will then lie down comfortably - fully-clothed. If it is a child (under 16) or infant, you may be present during the entire treatment.

I will then use a light touch (about the weight of a nickel), beginning at the feet, to assess where restrictions and other related problems are in your body.  Once this is completed, I continue to work through other parts of your body.
During the treatment - Most people feel a general sense of relaxation (in fact many people fall asleep early in the treatment). Some people also feel heat, cold or a stretching of tissues in particular parts of the body.  The treatment generally lasts about an hour for adults and 30 minutes for infants and children.  This can vary depending on the person.

Following the treatment - Some people report that they feel as if somebody had moved things about in their body. You will normally feel tired after the treatment, but after a short rest and a glass of water, you will be well capable of driving home.

The amount of treatment needed depends on the condition, severity and age of the client.  Some people need as few as one treatment to notice changes.

Jeannette Raskin is located at Family First Chiropractic. To book an appointment with her give us a call at 403-347-3261. 142 Erickson Dr Red Deer. www.family1stchiro.ca


Tuesday, December 03, 2013

Prenatal Massage


PREGNANCY MASSAGE

Prenatal or pregnancy massage is increasingly gaining popularity as pregnant women begin recognizing the benefits prenatal massage has to offer women during pregnancy. Back pain is one of the more common side effects of pregnancy. Back pain can continue throughout pregnancy and even after. If you have to carry around other small children you may find your symptoms exacerbated during pregnancy.

Fortunately massage can help relieve back pain associated with muscular tension. Here are just a few of the other benefits prenatal massage has to offer:

Prenatal massage helps relieve edema or swelling by stimulating circulation throughout the body.
Leg massage can help reduce leg cramps and swelling in the legs.
Massage is very beneficial for relaxing anxiety during pregnancy.
Massage can help promote more restful sleep and help prevent pregnancy related insomnia.
Pregnancy massage may relax your baby, particularly if you have your abdomen gently stroked.
To book a prenatal massage with one of our Massage Therapists. Please call us at 403-347-3261, Family First Chiropractic, 142 Erickson Dr. Red Deer. www.family1stchiro.ca

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