Are those summer plants and flowers looking brown and overgrown? Is it time to rake some leaves? Whether you are tidying up the garage or cleaning up the yard, these tasks can involve stretching, lifting, pushing, pulling, climbing, twisting and turning, and most people tend to overextend themselves. Taking a few necessary precautions can go a long way in helping …
What exactly is occupational therapy?
Throughout my career as a physiotherapist, a question that countless patients have asked me (and a question I was asking too) is “what is occupational therapy?” As my understanding of occupational therapists (OTs) grew, I came to appreciate the vast skill set these healthcare professionals possess, and the exceptional and innovative ways they guide and support their clients. Occupational therapists …
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How pelvic floor physiotherapy can help during pregnancy
The recovery of pelvic floor muscles following childbirth has become a prominent topic in the last several years, but did you know that it is actually beneficial to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist before you give birth? Seeking pelvic floor physiotherapy while pregnant is a great way to prepare your body and muscles for childbirth. The pelvic floor includes a group of …
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Two simple tests you can try to evaluate your risk of falling
As many as one-third of older adults fall at least once a year. These falls often have unfortunate consequences, like fractures or head injuries, increased burden on caregivers, and higher healthcare costs. Even the fear of falling again can make people restrict their activities thinking that they are reducing their risk, but the resulting deconditioning may actually increase fall risk. …
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6 exercises to help manage carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common nerve compression conditions affecting 3-4% of the general population. It involves temporary increased pressure on the median nerve as it passes through a small tunnel in the wrist known as the carpal tunnel. This temporary compression can be caused by swelling in the tendons surrounding the median nerve and contributes …
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Understanding the common symptoms of knee arthritis
If you are dealing with or suspect you may have arthritis, you are not alone. It is the most common form of joint condition, affecting approximately 302 million individuals worldwide. The knee is the most commonly affected joint. Some of the most common symptoms those with knee arthritis experience are: clicking or other noises with movements, knee pain that increases …
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How to move on from low back pain
Have you ever had a sudden onset of low back pain? Sometimes low back pain develops slowly, but often it seems to come from nowhere, for no particular reason. It may occur after bending over to put on your shoes or to pick up something very light, like a piece of lettuce. After bending over, it may be near impossible …
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Dizziness can be stubborn – what you need to know
Dizziness is common, and can affect 20-30% of people in their lifetime. Vestibular problems are often the cause. Whether you’re experiencing dizziness for the first time or have reoccurring symptoms – we can help. What is vestibular rehabilitation? The vestibular system includes the organs that we have in the inner ear to sense head movement and position, plus the parts …
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Living well with osteoarthritis
Living well with osteoarthritis requires both knowledge and action. People with osteoarthritis should know that it’s often possible to improve function and decrease pain despite changes to their joints. Combining this knowledge with the right kind of action, that neither increases disability or negatively impacts progression of joint changes and pain, can make all the difference in the world. Understanding …
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