Bunions
Banishing Bunions: How a Chiropodist Can Help
Summer is upon us, and that means it’s time to dig out those sandals and enjoy the warmer weather. But if you’re one of the millions of people dealing with bunions, you might be dreading the thought of showing off your feet. Don’t worry, though, because we’re here to discuss how a Chiropodist can help you with your bunion troubles.
Understanding Bunions:
Bunions are a common foot condition characterized by the enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe. They usually develop gradually, with the big toe leaning toward the other toes and a bony protrusion forming on the side of the foot. Bunions can be painful, cause discomfort while walking, and even lead to other foot problems.
How Can a Chiropodist Help?
A Chiropodist, also known as a podiatrist, specializes in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including bunions. They are highly trained healthcare professionals who can provide expert care and advice to help you manage your bunion symptoms effectively.
Here’s how they can assist you:
- Diagnosis and Assessment: A Chiropodist will examine your feet, assess the severity of your bunions, and identify any underlying causes.
- Pain Relief: Chiropodists can recommend and provide pain relief options such as orthotic devices, padding, or taping to alleviate discomfort caused by bunions. They may also suggest appropriate footwear modifications to reduce pressure on the affected area.
- Conservative Treatments: In many cases, bunions can be managed without surgery. Chiropodists can advise you on conservative treatment options like stretching exercises, physical therapy, and custom-made orthotics to improve the alignment of your feet and slow down the progression of the condition.
- Footwear Guidance: Your Chiropodist can provide valuable advice on selecting appropriate footwear that accommodates your bunions and minimizes discomfort. They may recommend shoes with wide toe boxes, low heels, and good arch support to relieve pressure on the affected area.
- Surgical Referral: If your bunions are severe and conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief, a Chiropodist can refer you to a foot and ankle surgeon for further evaluation. They will work in collaboration with the surgeon to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Prevention and Self-Care:
While Chiropodists can provide expert guidance and treatment, there are also steps you can take to prevent bunions or minimize their impact:
- Choose footwear wisely, opting for comfortable, well-fitting shoes that allow your toes to move freely.
- Avoid high heels or narrow-toed shoes that squeeze the toes together.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet.
- Perform regular foot exercises and stretches to improve foot strength and flexibility.
- If you notice any changes in your foot shape or experience foot pain, consult a chiropodist promptly.
Take a Step Towards Healthy Feet:
If bunions are causing you discomfort and affecting your quality of life, don’t suffer in silence. Schedule an appointment with our Chiropodist, Lada Milos Lee, and take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet.
New! Facial Spa Services and Microneedling
Facials:
Discover the ultimate facial treatment! We understand the importance of healthy, radiant skin, and our experts are here to help you achieve just that.
Our wide range of customized facials are designed to address your own unique skin concerns, whether you’re seeking deep cleansing, hydration, or anti-aging solutions. Our skilled professionals will tailor each treatment to meet your specific needs. We use locally handcrafted “Eaune” products, all natural, small batch skin care products. Facials may include a facial steam, LED light treatment, and facial massage.
Micro-needling:
Micro-needling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin. It stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving the appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. This safe and effective treatment enhances skin texture and absorption of skincare products.
Lumbar Disc Prolapse
All About Lumbar Disc Prolapse:
Symptoms of a lumbar disc prolapse vary from mild to severe and can affect the whole body (from the limbs to the bowels, as well as, of course, the back.) It can have a serious impact on your ability to carry out everyday tasks and can be debilitatingly painful. Sometimes its onset is sudden, especially when trauma or injury to the spine causes it. More often though, it creeps up on you. In fact, at Beachealth, we’ve treated patients that lived with lower back pain and stiffness for months before they sought treatment!
A Bit of Osteo Poetry…
Discs bulge, nerves complain,
Lumbar pain brings me such strain,
Osteopathy brings ease again,
Healing hands my spine regain!
It’s funny how relief from pain can leave you feeling euphoric (and poetic). Let’s get serious again and think about what’s happening and what we can do about it.
What is Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
Lumbar disc prolapse occurs when the soft, jelly-like centre of a spinal disc in the lower back (lumbar spine) bulges through a tear in the outer ring of the disc. This can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness.
What are the Symptoms of Lumbar Disc Prolapse?
Symptoms of lumbar disc prolapse can vary depending on the severity and location of the affected disc. The most common symptom is lower back pain that radiates down the legs, often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas. Other symptoms may include muscle spasms in the lower back or legs, limited mobility or stiffness in the lower back, and bladder or bowel dysfunction. Yikes.
How is a Lumbar Disc Prolapse Diagnosed?
Your osteopath will take a detailed history of your current symptoms and history at your first appointment. They will conduct a physical examination and perhaps order imaging tests. Not all lower back pain is caused by a lumbar disc prolapse and it’s important that we understand your particular condition. Whether it’s a prolapse or something else causing your symptoms, the right treatment is crucial to prevent further damage to the structures supporting your spinal cord.
Why Has This Happened?
A lumbar disc prolapse can occur as a result of wear and tear on the spine, sudden trauma or injury, or degenerative changes in the spine due to ageing. The condition may also be more common in individuals who perform repetitive bending and lifting movements, and in those who have poor posture or weak abdominal muscles. Some of this might be out of your control, but understanding the link between core strength, healthy posture and mindful movement can help you recover quickly and reduce (or maybe even prevent) future problems.
What Can My Osteopath Do?
Osteopathic treatment for a lumbar disc prolapse might include manual therapy techniques, such as gentle spinal manipulation, soft tissue massage, and stretching exercises. Osteopaths may also provide advice on posture, ergonomic modifications, and exercises to improve strength and flexibility in the lower back and core muscles. In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bulging disc and relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. If that is the case, we can work alongside your orthopaedic team to ready you for and rehabilitate you after surgery (and work with you to make reoccurrence less likely). That all sounds a bit scary – let us assure you that in most cases surgery isn’t necessary: manipulations, postural adjustments, stretching and strengthening exercises can be sufficient to bring you back to healthful, easy movement.
So, if you’re experiencing the symptoms of a Lumbar Disc Prolapse (especially if the symptoms are getting worse over time) call us for an appointment. Our osteopaths are here to help. You can also follow us on Instagram at beachintegrated for more handy tips and updates.
Cellulite
Cellulite, often characterized by dimpled skin on the thighs, buttocks, and hips, can be a common concern. But worry not, as we’ll explore natural remedies and an innovative treatment option using radio frequency to help combat this issue.
What Is It? Cellulite is a condition where fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin, resulting in a dimpled appearance. It can affect people of all shapes and sizes, and contrary to popular belief, it’s not solely related to weight or body fat percentage. Factors like genetics, hormones, poor circulation, and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to the development of cellulite.
Natural Remedies for Treating Cellulite
While there’s no magic cure for cellulite, several natural remedies can help reduce its appearance and promote smoother-looking skin:
1) Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on eating a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and sodium, as they can contribute to fluid retention and exacerbate the appearance of cellulite.
2) Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body well-hydrated and flush out toxins. Proper hydration helps improve skin elasticity and overall appearance.
3) Exercise Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity can help tone and strengthen the muscles in your thighs, buttocks, and hips. Combine cardio exercises like running or cycling with strength training exercises targeting those specific areas to help improve muscle tone and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
4) Dry Brushing: Dry brushing involves gently massaging your skin with a natural bristle brush. This practice can stimulate blood flow, promote lymphatic drainage, and exfoliate dead skin cells, potentially reducing the appearance of cellulite over time.
5) Massage and Essential Oils: Regularly massaging the affected areas with firm pressure can help improve circulation and break down cellulite. You can enhance the massage by incorporating essential oils like grapefruit, juniper berry, rosemary, or cedarwood, which are believed to have properties that promote skin health.
Treating Cellulite with Radio Frequency
If you’re looking for a more advanced treatment option, radio frequency (RF) technology can be an effective solution. RF treatments utilize targeted energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity. This process can help minimize the appearance of cellulite and tighten the skin in the treated areas. During an RF treatment, a handheld device is used to deliver controlled heat energy to the skin. The procedure is generally comfortable and non-invasive, with no downtime required. Multiple sessions are usually recommended for optimal results, and the effects can be long-lasting when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Before considering any treatment, it’s important to consult with a qualified professional to determine if radio frequency or any other cellulite treatment is suitable for you.
Remember, embracing your body and practicing self-love are essential parts of your beauty journey. While cellulite may be a concern for many, there are natural remedies and advanced treatments available to help you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin.
To find out more book an appointment with our Naturopathic Doctor Matthew Pace.
Medical Pedicures by a Chiropodist
Many people associate pedicures with a luxurious spa treatment, but they can also be an important part of maintaining foot health. Pedicures can help prevent the buildup of calluses and corns, which can be uncomfortable and even painful. But for those with foot conditions such as diabetes, circulation issues, or neuropathy, pedicures can be risky and potentially harmful if not done by a qualified professional.
This is where a medical pedicure, performed by a licensed Chiropodist, comes in. A Chiropodist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the feet and lower limbs. They are trained to identify and treat foot problems, as well as provide preventative care. Additionally they are held to a higher standard of care and insure proper sterilization techniques are used.
During a medical pedicure, the Chiropodist will use specialized tools and techniques to gently remove dead skin, calluses, and corns, without causing damage to the surrounding tissue. They will also trim and shape the toenails. And during the procedure the Chiropodist will inspect your feet for any signs of infection or other problems, and provide advice on how to maintain foot health. They may also recommend additional treatments such as ingrown nail surgery or wart removal when necessary.
Acne: Naturopathic and Aesthetic Options
Acne can be a frustrating and sometimes painful skin condition that affects people of all ages. However, as a Naturopathic Doctor, I have seen firsthand how natural remedies and lifestyle changes can greatly improve acne symptoms without the need for harsh chemicals or prescription medications.
One of the main causes of acne is inflammation, which can be triggered by a variety of factors such as stress, poor diet, hormonal imbalances, and environmental toxins. By addressing these underlying causes, we can often see a significant improvement in acne symptoms.
Here are some natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help:
Diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help reduce inflammation and support overall skin health. Avoiding processed foods, sugar, and dairy may also be helpful for some individuals.
Supplements: Certain supplements such as zinc, vitamin D, and probiotics have been shown to improve acne symptoms. However, it is important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure safety.
Stress management: Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and acne. Incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage stress and improve skin health.
Skincare: Choosing gentle, natural skincare products and avoiding harsh chemicals can help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the skin.
As a Naturopathic Doctor, I also utilize a variety of holistic treatments such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and food sensitivity testing to help support the body’s natural healing process and improve overall health.
We also offer laser services to treat the active acne or acne scars.
It is important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. Book with Dr. Pace, ND to find out more.
Are your joints popping, grinding or clicking?
You know how there’s always a scene in horror movies where a creaking floorboard is the scariest thing? For a lot of people, the floorboard is probably unnecessary, but the weird noises coming from their knees, necks, shoulders, and fingers would do the job. But what are these noises? Why do joints make grinding, clicking and popping sounds? And, the most important question our patients ask us, is it something to worry about? Our answer assumes you’re not aiming for a stealthy getaway from the Boogie Man! Let’s first try to understand what’s happening in your body.
What is Causing the Noises Anyway?
A few different things could be happening.
· A tendon or ligament might be snapping over a bony bump.
· A ligament might tighten with movement causing a bit of a click or creak.
· Air bubbles inside the joint can pop. (The famous noise of cracking your fingers.)
· Muscle tightness (particularly around the neck) might cause it to grind with movement.
· Cartilage may have worn away, meaning the bones can no longer glide against each other smoothly.
When should I be concerned?
Now a few little pops especially after you’ve been very sedentary for a while are no big deal. The working theory is that that’s just bubbles in your synovial fluid responding to a sudden movement. (And there’s really no evidence after studying habitual finger crackers for years that these little pops might lead to arthritis later in life.) But other grinding noises and cracking noises can be a problem. These sounds are called ‘crepitus’ and indicate things are out of balance. Cartilage may have deteriorated. Unfortunately, there is a correlation between these sounds and osteoarthritis later in life. A lower-pitched clunking sound, followed by a reduction in your range of motion is also a cause for concern. Your body is letting you know something’s out of balance and likely to lead to further problems if ignored. And of course if the noise comes with pain you need to take action.
What can be done?
Call or email us at BeacHealth to make an appointment. Your Osteopath can diagnose the nature of the noise and it’s causes. Osteopathic manipulation may bring pain relief as well. It will also get your body into better alignment so that your muscular system better supports the joint in its ideal position. Your Osteopath will also work with you to find an exercise program that works for you with your current pain levels and abilities to build a stronger more stable body to support your joints. In the meantime, keep moving gently. Motion is lotion! If you keep moving your joints, you keep healing fluids moving through them. We look forward to working with you towards your health goals.
Magnesium Bis-Glycinate
Magnesium is a vital mineral that plays an essential role in many bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function, bone health, and heart health. It is also required for the proper functioning of enzymes in the body and helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
However, despite its importance, many people do not get enough magnesium from their diet alone. This is where Magnesium Bis-Glycinate comes into play. It is a form of magnesium that is highly absorbable by the body, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their magnesium intake.
There are many positive effects of Magnesium Bis-Glycinate on health. Here are some of them:
- Improves sleep quality: Magnesium is known to help promote better sleep by calming the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety levels. It is particularly effective in this regard, as it is absorbed well by the body and can help to improve sleep quality.
- Reduces muscle pain and cramps: It plays a crucial role in muscle function as it is easily absorbed by the muscles and can help reduce muscle pain and cramps.
- Supports heart health: Magnesium is essential for maintaining a healthy heart, as it helps to regulate blood pressure and prevent the formation of blood clots.
- Improves mood: Magnesium is known to help reduce stress and anxiety levels and can help to improve your mood.
If you are looking to increase your magnesium intake, we highly recommend giving Magnesium Bis-Glycinate a try. But before you do, you should consult with our naturopathic doctor to determine your need and potential adverse effects.
Book with Dr. Matthew Pace, ND today!
Diaphragm Function from an Osteopathic Perspective
The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. It plays a crucial role in respiration (the main breathing muscle) and also has an impact on the health of the surrounding structures. Osteopaths view the diaphragm as a vital part of the body’s structure and function, and believe that it can contribute to a variety of health issues when not functioning properly.
From an osteopathic perspective, the diaphragm is viewed as a key player in the body’s structural alignment. It attaches to the lower ribs, sternum, and lumbar vertebrae, and its contraction helps to create negative pressure in the thoracic cavity, allowing air to be drawn into the lungs. Additionally, the diaphragm is intimately connected to the spine, pelvis, and surrounding fascia, which means that any dysfunction in these areas can impact the functioning of the diaphragm.
One common issue that osteopaths see in relation to the diaphragm is dysfunction in the form of restriction or tightness. This can occur due to a variety of factors, such as poor posture, trauma, or chronic stress. When the diaphragm is restricted, it can impede its ability to move freely during breathing, leading to shallow breathing patterns (upper rib breathing) and decreased oxygenation of the body’s tissues. This, in turn, can contribute to a host of health issues such as fatigue, headaches, neck and shoulder tension, and digestive problems.
The diaphragm is intimately connected to the digestive system. When the diaphragm is restricted, it can impede the proper functioning of the digestive organs, leading to issues such as bloating, constipation, and acid reflux. Similarly, the diaphragm plays a role in the body’s ability to eliminate toxins through the lymphatic system. It basically acts like a large pump for the body and dysfunction in the diaphragm can impede lymphatic flow, leading to a buildup of toxins and a compromised immune system.
Osteopaths also recognize that the diaphragm can be impacted by issues in the surrounding structures. For example, tightness in the muscles of the back or pelvis can lead to a pull on the diaphragm, causing it to become restricted. Similarly, restriction in the fascia of the abdomen can impact the diaphragm’s ability to move freely during breathing. Osteopaths use a variety of techniques, including soft tissue manipulation, stretching, and joint mobilization, to help restore proper function to the diaphragm and surrounding structures.
Overall, the diaphragm plays a critical role in the body’s overall health and functioning. Osteopaths recognize the importance of this muscle and its impact on the surrounding structures. By addressing dysfunction in the diaphragm and surrounding areas, osteopaths can help to restore proper function and promote optimal health throughout the body. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to the diaphragm or breathing, consider consulting with an osteopath today for an evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.
Written by: Daniel Stasiuk
Mobilizing Your Joints
It’s miserable when your joints ache. It’s worse when they’re stiff and everyday movement hurts. Often, gentle exercise has everything feeling right again. But sometimes it doesn’t. If that’s the case, it might be time to call the osteopath.
You’ve got a lot of joints in your body: Hinge joints (your knees, for example), ball and socket joints (your hip, for example) and saddle joints (you’ve got one in your thumb). There are other types too. Joints are points where bones meet, covered in cartilage at their ends to smooth the friction of movement. Tendons and ligaments support the moving joints in your body, while muscles initiate and sustain movement. They’re complex things, so it’s not surprising that sometimes things go wrong. Sometimes things get a bit stuck: joints can be irritated and inflamed through overuse, injury, and arthritis; surrounding muscles that should support the joint may become imbalanced in terms of strength and flexibility. Without movement to stimulate synovial fluid, the joint becomes stiffer and more painful. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments tense to support the pained joint, potentially creating even more pain. Meanwhile, you attempt to carry on with normal life, limping on the injured joint. Or perhaps you attempt to rest it completely, but both options create more pain. There is another way — it’s time to call your Osteopath.
What can my Osteopath do?
Your Osteopath understands your musculoskeletal system and will employ manual manipulation techniques to mobilize your “stuck” joint. This will usually involve stabilizing one segment of the joint while applying force to the other, usually in the direction of the tightness. The pressure may be forceful and seemingly sudden, or gentle and oscillating, but the result is the same — a return to a fuller range of motion for the joint, a reduction in pain and improved balance and functionality of the joint and surrounding muscles. What sort of mobilization treatment is appropriate will be determined by your symptoms, their causes, and the anatomy of the joint itself.Mobilizations can treat pain and stiffness in any of the body’s joints, but they’re particularly sought after for shoulder pain, chronic back pain, heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), ankle pain and knee osteoarthritis.
What does treatment feel like?
Joint mobilization should not hurt. Many patients experience almost immediate relief from pain, although they might be sore in the area worked on for a day or two afterwards.
Following your treatment, your osteopath will prescribe exercises to maintain and build upon your mobility gains. It’s important that you follow this program of exercises as the movement patterns that caused problems in the first place are likely to reoccur.
Joint mobilizations are a non-invasive option for dealing with the pain and debilitating effects of reduced range of motion in your joints. Call us to make an appointment with one of our Osteopaths today. We can help!